"There's an art to it just as there is diplomacy, I'm sure. Some of the basic core principles are even the same."

Allowing someone to believe an idea is their own whether good or bad. Doing nothing to contradict that belief or idea and watching the ripples spread. Jim nods in understanding.

"I don't doubt your family has quite a lot of uses for that sort of research." He does not like this. Not one bit. But he's offering a charming smile Peonia's way all the same. In some respects it's a blessing that she's as harsh as she is. Were she any more subtle she could be so, so dangerous.

"And with your brother's support you must be able to study as much as you wish."