Easton wakes up early and takes Hob for a ride, contemplating ways to help the Ushers. While riding, Easton notices Miss Potter, who is painting, and stops to talk with her. Miss Potter is occupied with her work, and Easton waits for her to finish. Ka tries to skip a rock into the tarn, but the rock lands in something gelatinous, which Miss Potter believes is an algae mat. Easton asks if mushrooms grow underwater, and although Miss Potter says it is unlikely, she notes that someone has indeed documented an underwater mushroom in the United States. However, not all fungi are mushrooms, and some species thrive in water. Miss Potter has seen a few water-based fungi, including one that resembles cotton growing on fish fins or in their mouths. Easton explains that ka enjoys hearing about the passions of others, and Miss Potter says Easton should see her niece Beatrix’s work. Upon spotting Madeline walking down to the tarn, Easton parts with Miss Potter, planning to hunt for red meat to help with Madeline’s anemia.

To prevent Roderick from being uncomfortable at the evidence of their charity, Easton and

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