 Back in the Familias, suspicion and rumor (aided by less talented and jealous former classmates) and Lord Thornbuckle fasten on to Esmay as the culpable agent to blame.Somewhat fortunately for Esmay, at this unpromising juncture her great-grandmother dies.Esmay is the designated next female in the succession of the Landbride, so she inherits the title and the assets like the land.