“Let’s discuss philosophical motivations for emotional suppression,” I said. “Our discovery suggests it’s someone who believes dampening feelings makes the court stronger or safer.”
We looked at each other, both coming to the same frustrating conclusion.
“We can’t narrow it down,” I said.
“Not with what we know so far.”
I tapped my pencil against my lips, thinking. “What if we force their hand? As you suggested on the stairs last night, we could bring in new flowers in pristine condition and make a big show of preparing them for the festival. Create a scenario that would draw whoever’s doing this back to the chamber.”
Dominic’s eyes lit up. “The perfect trap.”
“If they believe their dampening work is being undone, they’ll have to act. And when they do…”
“We’ll be watching.” He finished my sentence, grinning.
Birds who break routine often have hidden nests,Savory said as she gulped down a mouthful of pastry.Watch for behavioral changes in the court. Someone will slip.
“She’s right,” I said, sharing what she’d said while moving the platter of pastries out of her reach. “Whoever’s doing this feels justified, not guilty. That kind of conviction could show in how they carry themselves.”
The crow who steals believes the shiny thing was always meant to be his,Savory added.
Dominic laughed when I translated. “Your companion is very wise.”
Finally, proper recognition.
“But also very humble,” I said dryly.
“The festival is in two days,” Dominic said, pulling us back to our notes. “If we can’t catch them before then, we need a backup plan.”
“Temporary counters to the dampening magic.” I flipped to a fresh page. “We know our emotional connection revives the plants. Could we amplify that somehow during the festival itself?”
“Maybe, if we position ourselves strategically throughout the celebration,” he said. “Move through different areas, letting our presence counteract the dampening.”
“It’s not a permanent solution, but it would get us through the event.” I made notes as we talked, our ideas flowing back and forth.
The wise raven waits for the mouse to reveal itself rather than disturbing every bush,Savory said.Patience will serve you better than rushing.
“She’s telling us not to force it,” I said.
Dominic nodded. “She’s probably right. We can set the trap, watch carefully, and wait.”
The door opened, and Lady Kenneth strode in, wearing her usual tunic and pants, weapons visible at her belt.
“Good morning, Your Majesties.” She settled into a chair and accepted the cup of tea one of the staff placed in front of her. “You both look well.”
A flush touched my cheeks, but I managed to keep my expression neutral. “Good morning, Lady Kenneth.”
“I have excellent news.” She took a sip of tea. “Master Cornelius from the Eastern Winds Court has agreed to loan me those texts.” She clapped her hands. “I cannot wait to dig intoEmotional Resonance in Pre-Kingdom Courts,The Suppression Arts: A Historical Analysis, andMagical Dampening: Theory and Practice.” Her eyes gleamed. “I’m particularly excited about the suppression arts volume. It covers techniques most people believe were lost centuries ago.”
My pulse picked up. “When will they arrive?”
“Soon. The courier should be here within a day or two.” She studied us both. “I have the sense you’re interested in these subjects, which I appreciate. Scholarly study is a lost art, I’m afraid.”
“I’d love to take a look at those volumes myself when they arrive,” Dominic said.
“Of course, Your Majesty.”
“And perhaps you’d be willing to help with my research?” I added. “I could use your expertise in historical magical theory. It’s a pet project of mine.”
