Childermass is momentarily distracted, glancing back at Peridot. Lapis was what now? Another Winter fae is around? Which means the Count may already have one of their own-- or are they their own creature, unaffiliated?

"We do as we are told," he makes that case instead, turning back to the Count. "Which includes searching a library, that is true. If you wish to know what the Ringmaster intends, though, you will need to ask her, not us."

There's a brief pause after that, followed by an addition, Childermass repeating Peridot's question, just in another way.

"Both Courts are here beyond only yourself, aren't they? Has another faerie of Winter taken one of our people?"