[ Charles tends to keep the details of his telepathy close to his chest; most people are made uncomfortable when he reveals exactly how much he overhears even when he's not actively trying, let alone how much he can dig up if he is actively trying.

But Erik's assumption is wrong. He can sense most of the Fae at this party just fine, their thoughts largely turned toward the present, enjoying the festivities. There are a few whose thoughts are more difficult to catch, like trying to trap a breeze. And the King and Duchess holding court? Their thoughts are so slippery that he cannot glean anything from them -- but he knows that if he gets a foothold, he might eventually be able to decipher their wild minds.

So he smiles, small and private, and says: ]

Underestimating me again, old friend? Their minds aren't any different than yours or mine.

[ He has not attempted to actively dive in, but if he did, his target would be those of note; the King and Duchess, who are more likely to have important information. But he will have to work on them slowly.

He nods over at the King, drawing Erik's attention to him. ]

His mind, however, is like... a hurricane. Like trying to catch a thousand butterflies with a tiny net, or to separate all the fish from the ocean.