With Commander Crayn always at her side, she took the list to the librarian.

Beatrix Threnody greeted her with a distracted, half-frightened air. She appeared to have shrunk in recent days, worn down by her sudden inheritance of knowledge and authority. Estie might not have picked her out of a crowd of Magisters to lead the Repository. But her self-doubt seemed to increase her sympathy for more ordinary needs; or perhaps they did not threaten her. She accepted General Klamath’s list and promised to act on it at once.

Returning to her quarters, Estie planned to rest. The war was almost here. When it arrived, her task would require all of her stamina and concentration. But then, finally, Fifth Daughter came to her with news that she was anxious to hear.

Despite her downcast gaze and humble demeanor, the monk looked excited. She betrayed a shy smile. Through Crayn, she told Estie:

—Third Father is recovering, Queen. The shamans have done well. He still needs help to stand, but he can sit up and feed himself.

Beaming her relief, Queen Estie said, “Thank you.” At once, she asked, “May I see him?”

The young monk took a breath.

—I believe so. It is not my place to say, Queen, but I think that he will welcome a visitor.

If Fifth Daughter had not been a monk, Estie might have hugged her. Instead, the Queen put her hand on Crayn’s shoulder: a brief assurance that she wanted his company.

“Then, please. Lead us.”

Covering her mouth to hide another smile, Fifth Daughter showed Queen Estie and Commander Crayn the way.

The monks of the Cult of the Many occupied rooms among the keep’s foundations where the servants lived, but they had several corridors to themselves. Third Father’s quarters were at the end of a long hall marked by dozens of doors. Thinking of his condition, poisoned by Tak Biondi’s knife, Estie felt dismay that he had to walk so far to go anywhere. For a man of his years, every destination was a pilgrimage.

As Fifth Daughter reached the last door and knocked, Estie bit her lip against the chagrin of her memories. That the old monk had been bedridden for days was her doing.

If her guide was invited in, Estie did not hear it. Fifth Daughter opened the door a little, peered inside. Whatever she saw reassured her. Beckoning for the Queen and Crayn, she entered.