“There are so few of them! And the other types of fay?”
“They are plentiful – the gnomes, dryads, brownies, redcaps, phoukas, sprites, and elves.”
“Do they breed with mortals as well?”
“Usually not.”
Lord Matlock wore a calculating look. “I suppose you know the fay spell for shape-changing as well.”
Eversleigh laughed. “I have never bothered to learn it, and it would do you no good if I had. It does not work on mortals, even those who are half fay like me.”
Lord Matlock scowled. “I could try.” He picked up a strawberry and examined it carefully, sniffed it, and took a tiny nibble. “Astonishing.”
Darcy said, “Perhaps it is clearer now why I was unwilling to threaten the Sidhe. Their power dwarfs ours.”
Matlock popped the rest of the strawberry in his mouth. “It would seem so. I would like to learn more about it.” His expression sobered. “But while I appreciate the distraction, we have some unpleasant work to do.”
“Less than you might think,” said Eversleigh. “Darcy and I have already gone through most of his study. I would like your opinions on Sir Lewis’s experiments, but apart from that, all that remains is to place magical seals on everything and remove it to the Collegium vaults.”
“You work quickly.” Lord Matlock sipped his port with a frown. “Where is Frederica? I thought she was here.”
“She is staying at the Dower House with Miss Bennet and Miss de Bourgh.”
Lord Matlock scowled. “How convenient. That way they can spend hours telling each other how evil I am. And do not look at me likethat, Eversleigh. I know full well I should not have been the one to bind my niece, that I should have sought out someone else, someone unrelated to her. I did not trust what the Collegium might decide to do about a girl who could kill with a thought. How did you manage to break the spell?”
“I did not. Aelfric was the one who freed her.”
“I suppose it would be child’s play for him.” Lord Matlock looked displeased by the concept. “But no matter. I am more worried about the conflict in the Collegium. I have no doubt you will handle it well, Eversleigh, but I am concerned for Darcy.”
“For me?” Darcy said, startled. “Why?”
“Now that I have given up my position, I can no longer protect you.” Lord Matlock sounded defeated.
“Protect me from what?” Foreboding filled Darcy.
Eversleigh was the one who responded. “The inquiry into whether you had abused your power was a very near thing. Lord Matlock’s support of you tipped the balance in your favor.”
Darcy’s hands clenched into fists. “That again? I thought it was put to rest.”
“It should be, and I wish it were,” said Eversleigh. “There are those who are still whispering, though, and your proximity to this discovery of sorcery will not help. I will do what I can on your behalf.”
Darcy forced the words out. “I did not do it.”
“I know,” said Eversleigh matter-of-factly. “I always supposed you had not, and now I know it without a doubt.”
Darcy’s mouth twisted. “Perhaps I have been lying to you.”
“I do not blame you for being angry. I can be certain because I asked you about it when we were in Faerie, and I would have known if you were lying. It is not a defense I can put before the Collegium, but I know it.”
It was a relief to be believed. “What must I do?”
“Nothing at present. If someone raises the question again, youmay need to take a stand. Otherwise my only suggestion is to try to find the mysterious water mage who is determined to harm your reputation.”
“I have tried, I assure you!” There had to be an answer to the mystery, but he was damned if he could find it. Of course, he was also damned if he could not.
MISS DE BOURGH ANDFrederica were already breakfasting when Elizabeth came downstairs. She had taken extra time with her appearance, but it made no difference. Darcy was not here to see it. She refused to let herself be disappointed. “Did the rest of the night go smoothly?” she asked.
“We were just discussing that,” said Anne. “I had forgotten all about my night troubles, but it is nothing to worry about. Before I was under the binding spell, the maids were instructed to keep breakables out of my room, but I never caused fires or floods. I unmade a few bedsheets, but that was all. Darcy worries too much.”
