Page 88 of The Dragon King's Assassin

Taroc laughed. “I'm trying to make you as comfortable as possible.”

“Oh! That's why he has a nice bed.”

“What is it with you and the bed?” Taroc shook his head at me.

“Asks the man who made me sleep on a pallet.”

“Perhaps now is not the time for this conversation, Assassin.”

“Fine.” I looked back at Crushei. “Are there any members of your staff who might have been persuaded to hide those items in your home?” I asked.

“My staff?” Crushei asked, then frowned. “I suppose anyone can be bribed for the right price but, generally, I trust them. Most came here with me from Tresheha.”

“The Shanba city in the Grimcree Forest?”

“Yes, I wanted to export Shanba wine here, but I had to move to Mhavenna to oversee the business. I gave my household the choice to come with me and most of them did.”

“I'll speak to them. At the very least, they can vouch for your whereabouts.”

“Thank you. Could you tell Alanth to make sure that everyone is paid while I'm here?”

“Alanth?”

“My butler.”

“Sure.” I nodded.

“If you think of anything that might be helpful to our investigation, ask one of the guards to notify me,” Taroc said.

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

We left Lord Crushei to enjoy his nice bed and bathroom.

On the way up to the ground level of the palace, I said to Taroc, “It speaks well of him that his people followed him here.”

“And that he wants them looked after while he's imprisoned,” Taroc said. “But you said this was a personal vendetta. A man can be kind to those he favors while still harboring hatred in his heart for his enemies.”

“True.” We got to the top of the stairs, and I crouched to pet Ren. “Look after our king while I'm gone.”

Ren yipped.

“Good girl. I know I can count on you.” I stood and met Taroc's stare.

“You're leaving now?”

“If that's all right with you, Your Majesty.”

“Look at you; so sweet now that you've gotten your way.” He rolled his eyes.

“But have I?” I winked at him and walked away.

“Remember what I said, Assassin,” he called after me.

“I will return to you anon, my King.”

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