She smiled at that.
"As do I." Her expression shifted to something more serious. "Which is why I'm going to offer you something unusual. If your investigation leads you to my kingdom – to Valdara – you have my personal authorization to operate within my borders. No bureaucratic obstacles, no local authorities questioning your presence. Just results."
That was... unexpected. And significant. Valdara's cooperation would open doors across half the Empire.
"That's generous, Your Majesty. May I ask what you expect in return?"
"Honesty. If you find corruption in my kingdom – and I suspect you will, given how deep this conspiracy seems to run – you tell me directly." Her eyes were sharp. "I can't fix problems I don't know about. And I suspect you're very good at finding problems others miss."
It was a reasonable request. Also a political maneuver – getting his direct access meant she'd have information before the Emperor did.
