“The people currently in power, whether in the middle world or on the Magic Council, are all his allies. He has enemies, but none of them are going to act soon. The chances of removing him from power now are slim to none.” Tabassum Naaz shakes her head.

“So, what are we supposed to do? Live life running from one city to another?” Kamboja bursts out. “How long are we going to run?”

“I… I can leave,” Taraana immediately offers.

“Nonono, I didn’t mean that, Taraana,” Kamboja says, her voice wobbling.

“What did you mean, then?” Daraja’s voice is cold. “We’ve only just experienced a portion of what Taraana’s life has been. Have you forgotten that it’s because of him you’re even here now?” All of a sudden, everyone is speaking at once. Our emotions are sensitive and our tempers easily ignited.

“You will all shut up for me,” Paheli says, her voice loud enough that everyone, including Tabassum Naaz, falls silent. Valentina glances at her, but she is lost in her own thoughts.

“At this moment, I don’t have a concrete plan or any way to act against your grandfather. This may not be the case in the future. Will you help us when we need you to?” Paheli asks.

“I won’t risk my parents,” Tabassum Naaz says. “But… if I can help without putting them in danger, I will.”

“Are you sure?” Valentina again.

“At this moment, yes.”

“Aren’t you worried that your cousins will try to kill you to gain favor from Baarish?” Etsuko asks.

Tabassum Naaz smiles the sort of smile we associate with dark corners and sharp knives. “I am my grandfather’s granddaughter. I have more than my fair share of his ruthlessness, not that I would ever do what he did… what he’s trying to do,” Tabassum Naaz says, more earnestly than she has said anything before. She meets Taraana’s eyes for the first time and bows her head to him.

“Thank you.” He smiles at her. “I wasn’t able to say these words to you back then.”

“You don’t have to thank me,” Tabassum Naaz says angrily. “I am the last person who deserves your gratitude. My family owes you a debt.” She leans back in her chair as if exhausted and waves a hand. “Are you sure you can keep the keeper safe? As I said, my grandfather has many allies, even here.” Tabassum Naaz looks at Paheli and shakes her head. “I didn’t risk my life twice to set him free for him to be caught again, you know?”

“How did you manage to do that?” Valentina asks curiously.