The Forgotten Way (Champions of the Crystal Book 6)

Chapter 5.2

"Thank you for taking my call, Aunt Imari," Sabrina said, ignoring the fact that she had been passed through no fewer than three assistants to get to this point.

"I am always happy to be of service to the family," Imari replied. "How may I be of help to you, niece?"

Sabrina explained the difficulties in getting the fact-finding mission going. "I thought a single observer on behalf of the Realm might be the perfect solution to our problem."

"Hm." Imari thought for a moment. "Yes. It will have to be on a volunteer basis, of course, to such a dangerous planet, but I have no doubt one of our number will step forward."

"Actually," Sabrina said, "I was thinking it might be faster if I could be that volunteer. But I would need your permission, of course, to represent the Realm instead of Praxatillus."

Imari was taken aback. "Represent the Realm? Sabrina...."

I've made Imari speechless. I wish Scotty could see this! "I know it's unorthodox, Aunt Imari. But surely the Realm has employed non-Miahns from time to time? This mission requires only an observer, not anyone with special talents. A Miahn would be wasted on it."

Imari's frown warned her she was going too far. "Your particular special talents are much valued by my niece the Queen, Sabrina. I could not make a decision like this without discussing it with her first."

"Of course." Sabrina hid a smile; she knew how offended Imari would have been if she'd skipped over her and gone straight to Mara. "I appreciate your consideration, though."

"Do not thank me yet," Imari said sourly. "There are several issues to be worked through before I can give you what you ask for. But I suspect that you will get it. Maratobia has great respect for your judgment. As do I," she added after a moment. Then she hurried on, "We must resolve this issue quickly. It is disgraceful that anyone within the Realm of Miah should go hungry or be driven from their home."

"I agree completely," Sabrina said.

"I will contact you when we have made a decision," Imari said. "If another observer should be appointed, I expect you to accept it without complaint."

"Of course, Aunt Imari. I know that I am asking for a great honor that I am not entitled to."

"What you are asking for is a great deal of trouble," Imari said. "But that is nothing new. Before you go, niece, tell me how Niavar is."

"He is recovering quickly," Sabrina assured her. "I always know he'll be okay when he starts making a nuisance of himself to the medical staff."

Imari let out a bark of laughter. "Yes. That puts my mind at ease, too. Good. Stay well, both of you."

"And you, Aunt Imari." Sabrina sighed in relief as the screen went blank.

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When she reached the infirmary, Thad was chatting politely with Ranfir. They both looked relieved to see her. "Ambassador t'ver Neiss!" she exclaimed in surprise.

He gave her a little bow. "I came to inquire after the health of Prince Niavar. But since he is asleep, I will ask you: how is he?"

"Healing rapidly," Sabrina said. "Thank you for asking. I'll tell him you came by. I was just speaking with our Aunt Imari, the First Chair of the Council of Trême. She sends her greetings and hopes that this issue can be resolved quickly."

"We are flattered by the First Chair's interest," Ranfir said, looking surprised.

"She is interested in all Realm concerns, but particularly those where people are suffering," Sabrina said. "Have you heard from your family? I trust they are well?"