With an effort, Estie assumed her most demure, unthreatening demeanor. “No, librarian. The challenge is not so great. If you can recall who has studied poisons and gunpowder in the past season or two, you will narrow our search. Who has studied both poisons and Estervault’s Methods?” She wanted to add, Who studied poisons first, then turned to gunpowder when Travail began to mend? But she hesitated to push Magister Threnody that far. “Among those men and women, you will find your traitor.”

Despite his unobtrusive pose, Commander Crayn said distinctly, “Well done, Majesty. I would not have thought of it.”

“Nor would I,” admitted Magister Oblique. “If this is an Amikan way of thinking, it has much in its favor.”

The monk had turned away from Queen Estie. Now he regarded the librarian, probing her with his singular insight.

“But I cannot do it!” said Threnody, almost wailing. “Are you all as blind as I am? So much has been forced into me! I can scarcely recall Magister Marrow’s reading of Eighth Decimate. How do you expect me to—?”

“By calming yourself, librarian.” Third Father spoke gently. “You have said it yourself. You need quiet and time. Quiet you can provide for yourself, and time you have. The Great God cannot come against you in an instant. Let Sirjane Marrow’s knowledge reach you in its own way. It will come more readily if you calm yourself.”

Slowly, Magister Threnody relaxed. For a long moment, she gazed blindly around the sitting room, studying details that Estie could not see. Then she took a deep breath and held it. As she let it out, she said, “Thank you, Father. You are wiser than I.”

At once, the monk lowered his gaze.

Again, the librarian headed for the door. She could not see it, but she knew where it was. Before she reached it, however, she said over her shoulder, “The Queen I leave to you, Magister Oblique. Do what you think best.”

Lylin rose like floating. “I will accompany you, librarian. I am content with Queen Estie’s recovery.” She surprised Estie with a bow. “Majesty.” Then she ushered Beatrix Threnody away.

The devotee’s bow had the effect of validation. Estie could ask her own questions now. Magister Oblique might answer them.

When the door closed, Oblique returned to her chair. “You have shamed me, Queen,” she confessed. “I did not see the connection. Two crimes, not one. It seems obvious now, but it eluded me.”

Estie shrugged as if she were sure of herself. “It has been too long since you were threatened. The knowledge here is vast, but the Last Repository is a little world. And you are surrounded by people who share your beliefs. In effect, they diminish the use of your knowledge. Such wealth should not be hidden away.”