Maren listened without interrupting.
The report the six had brought her was simple. Rurik had once served the Empire. He had admitted it without hesitation. He had explained why he left, what he had done while he served, and what he believed needed to happen now.
None of that erased fifteen years.
When Vane finished, Maren remained seated behind the rough wooden table, her hands folded together.
"So," she said at last, "you believe him."
Vane shook his head.
"I believe he believes what he told us."
Maren's eyes narrowed slightly.
Isole answered before Vane could elaborate.
"That distinction matters."
Maren leaned back.
"And do you think he's lying?"
"No," Isole said. "We found no clear indication of it."
"That isn't the same as trust."
"No."
The answer seemed to satisfy her more than certainty would have.
