Latina rubbed her eye.
She was still trembling. But her mind was working. She was an information broker. She had files on everyone. Even servants. Even masseurs.
"His name is Old Tomas," she said. Her voice was hoarse. "He is sixty-three. He has served the First Queen for twenty years. He was originally a barber from the merchant district. He was recommended to the queen by a lady-in-waiting. He is skilled. Quiet. Discreet. He lives in the servants' quarters of the palace. He has a daughter."
"A daughter," Raven said. "Tell me about her."
Latina looked at him. Her confusion deepened.
"Her name is Sera," Latina said. "She is nineteen. She looks like her mother—who was apparently quite beautiful before she died in childbirth. Sera has been training. She wants to join the Royal Guard. She has the talent. She has the build. Tall. Strong. She has been participating in the selection trials at the East Training Grounds. The trials started three days ago. They will conclude in a week."
