"The other four mothers," Elara said. "The ones who were recruited after you provided the list. Do you know who they are."
A pause.
"I know one," the sixth consort said. "The second consort. She — we are close. She told me six weeks ago that she'd been approached. She didn't tell me the details but she was frightened." She paused. "She's been frightened for six weeks."
"Is she someone who would speak to me," Elara said.
"If she knew it was safe," the sixth consort said. "If she knew she wouldn't lose her son."
Elara picked up a clean sheet.
Wrote a single line on it in the regent's formal hand.
*The bearer of this document speaks under the regent's protection. No harm, no penalty, no consequence for honest account.*
Signed it. Stamped it with the regent's seal.
Held it out.
"Give her this," Elara said. "Tell her to come tomorrow. First bell, same as the others." She paused. "And tell her to bring anyone else she knows of."
