Page 148 of Royal Rebel

She had a sinking feeling that things in Zennor were even worse than she’d thought.

Chapter 34

Imara

Imarasatinhernew office, her injured leg propped up on the settee that crowded the small room. Light poured in from the sole window, and she could smell the salt on the air. She’d asked Kaz to open the window for her today, though in truth she felt rejuvenated just being in a different space—and having a unique puzzle to solve.

Desfan had told her everything he recalled Vakesh Kazzo saying that day at the asylum. He’d also given her access to all of Vakesh’s old reports, though she hadn’t learned much about the former spy’s last mission. Yet. The notes were all so fascinatingly complicated, even after days spent going through them. The current spymaster had been quite apologetic when asked about the reports. His predecessor had often used inconsistent codes to mark his reports, which made many of them unreadable.

Desfan visited her throughout the day, and even though she rarely had any findings to report, she always looked forward to seeing him. She was extremely grateful to him for giving her this space and this task. Being useful after feeling helpless for so long made her feel much more like herself. It was especially timely, since Clare had left for Dorma and Imara missed her friend. She was glad Clare could step away from Duvan for a while, though. Fates knew she deserved a little reprieve after everything she’d endured.

A knock on the door made Imara’s eyes lift from the papers she studied. “Come in,” she called.

Kaz opened the door, and Imara was surprised to see Ranon Sifa standing beside him.

Ranon was probably a little younger than Imara’s eighteen years. The first time she’d met him, she had been struck by the kindness in his brown eyes. Even though she hadn’t interacted much with him during her time in Mortise, she’d instantly liked him. It helped that he’d befriended Grayson.

Ranon followed Kaz into the room, and Imara didn’t have the heart to dismiss her guard. He’d been especially protective since Jekem’s attack, and since the man was still missing, Imara didn’t mind a little extra protectiveness.

“Ranon,” Imara greeted with a smile. “This is a surprise.”

Ranon stopped a few paces away and bowed deeply. “Princess Imara, I hope I’m not bothering you.”

“Not at all. Please, sit.”

He took the chair she indicated, which put him directly across from her. His fingers knotted. “I was hoping I could speak with you. About Prince Grayson. I know he was your friend as well, and that you spoke in his defense after the attack. You said he saved you.”

“He did. Grayson was forced to help Prince Liam, but in the end, he betrayed his brother and defended us.”

Some of the tension in Ranon’s shoulders eased. “It’s good to hear you say that. I mean, I knew, but . . .” He shook his head. “I’ve asked the serjan to allow me to see Grayson, but he won’t permit it. Have you seen him?”

“Yes.” She hadn’t seen himrecently, but Ranon didn’t need to know that. “He’s well,” she added, hoping that was true.

“I’m glad to hear it,” Ranon said. “Is there anything we can do for him? My father says he will stand trial, and once he does, he’ll be found guilty.”

“I’ll speak for him,” Imara said. “And I think Desfan will as well.” As long as Grayson returned with Mia. Imara tilted her head, studying Ranon. “Your loyalty to him is admirable, but . . .”

Ranon cracked a smile. “Surprising?”

She lifted one shoulder. “Grayson has many talents, but making friends isn’t exactly one of them.”

Ranon chuckled, the sound a little edged. “To be honest, I judged him harshly at first. I didn’t want any Rydenic guests in the palace. Ryden . . . well, that kingdom has taken much from my family.” He swallowed hard. “It’s a grudge my father still carries.”

“But you don’t?”

“Not in the same way my father does. Do I want justice? Yes. But turning against Grayson—against the chance for the peace he represented—no. I came to the conclusion that future peace was more important than past wrongs.”

“You’re very wise.”

“My father thinks I’m a fool.” He sighed. “What can I do to help Grayson?”

“For now, I think we both must simply wait,” Imara said. “As difficult as that is.”

Ranon didn’t look satisfied with her answer, but he also didn’t seem surprised. “Very well. But if there’s anything I can do, will you tell me?”

“Of course.”

With that promise, he stood. “Thank you for your time, Princess.” He bowed again and turned for the door.

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