Sword Eradimnie said something to Crayn. She may have been trying to reassure him. But he ignored her. Leaving her side, he strode across the room to stand in front of his Queen. With his hands, he shouted:

—No, Majesty! These men are insane. It is too dangerous!

She understood. His gestures were simple. Nevertheless the hunchback’s demand held her.

How had he become a Magister if he had no sorcery? What qualified him to command the Repository’s defense? Beatrix Threnody knew every book. Avail could speak to everyone anywhere. What could Magister Rummage do?

Estie only knew what Oblique had told her. He was able to read books that no one else understood. Why was that obscure gift considered a necessary power?

Yet she was already half persuaded. How could she refuse when everyone she had left behind was likely to die?

She knew how to set her own fear aside. She had been practicing that form of self-discipline for a long time.

As if he were answering Crayn, Magister Avail cut in. We are not madmen, Queen. He had recovered his familiar vexation. What we ask is dangerous. But the risk is not as great as you suppose. We have prepared a place of concealment. You will be well hidden.

More sadly, he added, We will do what we can without you if we must. But if you accept, you may prove to be the pivot on which the battle turns.

Crayn insisted:

—No, Majesty.

As he studied her, however, his shoulders slumped. He knew her too well. Glowering, he returned to his place beside the Knight.

Again, Sword Eradimnie said something to him. It must have made sense. He answered with a curt nod.

Prodded by Magister Rummage, the deaf man continued.

Whether or not you will be threatened depends on you. The Great God’s attention will be fixed elsewhere. That we can ensure, if we accomplish little else. If you do not expose yourself, you will not be seen.

Abruptly, Queen Estie had heard enough. She had other questions, but they could wait. Gathering herself, she rose from her chair.

For Crayn’s sake, she said, I will consider it. I am inclined to do what you ask. But first I must see this place of concealment.

Magister Avail hid his face by bowing his head. For no clear reason, Estie suspected that he was frightened. For her? Perhaps. For his friend? Certainly.

Tomorrow then, Queen. Magister Rummage will guide you.

Estie did not hear what the armored woman said. She had to wait for the mute’s tapping and the deaf man’s translation.

Sword Eradimnie thanks you, Queen. She and her Knights will honor their promise.

At once, the Sword turned to the door. The silence of her iron seemed unnatural as she left.

With nothing more to say, Queen Estie assured the room, Tomorrow, Magisters. Then she and Commander Crayn followed Sword Eradimnie out.