Chapter 64

James’ question caught me off guard. “What do you mean?” “You know what I mean,” he sighed. “Talon took the witness away to talk to him in private the other day. Why?” “Because the man was overwhelmed by all the people in the room,” I explained. “By all the people, or by you?” I knew there was no point in arguing about it. Not only because James was a competent king, but also because he knew me well—he knew us well. I sighed and looked away. “One person’s word wouldn’t have been enough to leap to any conclusions. I didn’t want to cause panic or suspicion in the room.” “I understand that. That’s why I didn’t say anything there.” “I appreciate it.” “What are you going to do about it?” James asked. “This is between me and him,” I said quietly. “It might have been personal before, but now, as you are aware, things are not going well in our border packs. The people are suffering. This troubles me.” He looked towards the crowd of displaced civilians. Worry and sadness were in his gaze. I und