‘So did you.’
‘Yes.’
I didn’t intend to sound antagonistic but I couldn’t help it. ‘You knew what was here. You knew the dangers, yet when the killing started you did nothing to stop it.’
‘I am not omnipotent, Kit.’ Trilby dropped their head. ‘But you are correct. I grew complacent where Cian was concerned. He was asleep for a long time and when he awoke once again, Icould have – Ishouldhave – done more. I tried, but in the end I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t kill my friend.’
‘So I did your dirty work for you.’
They looked up and met my eyes. ‘It was not your first time, Kit.’
No.
‘And there were other reasons that it had to be you,’ they said.
I stiffened. ‘What other reasons?’
‘Now is not the time to explain,’ Trilby said softly.
Hmmm. I lowered my arms to my sides. ‘Are you one of the good guys, Trilby?’
‘Are you?’ they responded.
Good question. ‘I try to be,’ I said.
Trilby smiled faintly. ‘That is all any of us can do.’ Then, to my surprise, they gripped my arm. ‘Thank you,’ they said.
I hesitated then I nodded. ‘You’re welcome.’
Chapter
Thirty-One
The moon hung low in the sky, its silvered glow barely visible above the nearby rooftops and chimney stacks. Stars had emerged to twinkle down from above but it was still early. No doubt there would be more later. It was a fitting evening for a graduation ceremony, even if it was only for a few newly trained minor investigators.
Marie Wicker blew out a blue smoke ring and watched my approach. ‘Ms McCafferty,’ she said flatly. ‘What a joy to see you again.’
Oh dear, she didn’t look happy. I offered her my bright, trademark cat-lady smile. ‘Mary! Hello!’
‘It’s Marie.’
I peered at her owlishly. ‘Is it? Mary suits you better.’ Her answering scowl held enough ferocity to curdle milk and it was hard not to laugh. ‘How did the fraud investigation go?’ I asked.
Her unhappiness deepened. ‘Fetch Mayhew uncovered several misuses of funds, mostly relating to the unauthorised sale of Wicker light powder. We’ve been trying to outlaw its use outside our coven for years but without success.’
Ah. ‘Perhaps the powder is being put to good use,’ I said easily. She sniffed but didn’t argue. ‘What about your swapped investigation for the witches’ council?’ I asked. ‘How did that go?’
Her expression darkened further. ‘Not well. I was tasked to investigate the disappearance of an item from the council’s Alexandria Collection. You’d think the council would be more circumspect with valuable scrolls and books but apparently it is not.’
‘Did you find the item?’
Her answer was short. ‘No.’
I pursed my lips then dug into my bag. Thane had kept hold of the Clouded Map and it remained safely ensconced in the bellarmine jug. ‘Perhaps this will help,’ I said.
She took the jug and stared. ‘What is this?’
I remained serene. ‘You know what it is. I promise you it’s safe, and it’s still in perfect condition.’
