Page 121 of Prince of Darkness and Deceit

“I…” My gaze flickers to Rian, but I hesitate.

The truth about the boy—the monster—burns in my throat, but my gut says I shouldn’t share the information. Not here. Not now.

I meet Lev’s narrowed eyes. “I thought I heard someone calling for help. I…I was wrong.”

“Of course you were wrong.” General Ironheart steps forward; the three soldiers with him remain where they are. “We cleared everyone from these homes before the fire spread.”

My magic stirs, prickling in my veins, restless at the general’s condescending tone. I clamp it down, praying it doesn’t flare.

“What is he doing?” Ironheart asks, eyes flicking to Draven.

The Fae’s body trembles as he focuses on the blaze.

“Helping,” Rian clips out, shadows rolling across his shoulders.

“And I could use some assistance when you have a second,” Draven grits out, jaw tight.

Rian glances at his friend, then gestures sharply. Shadows launch from his hands like arrows, precise and deadly, merging with Draven’s own darkness.

The night itself seems to bend, pulling more shadow over the lingering flames until the last ember of the inferno dies.

Cheers and terrified shrieks erupt from the main street on the other side of the charred homes.

Ironheart’s expression is unreadable, but Lev and the other soldiers stare, mouths slack. The Fae’s display was both magnificent and terrifying—a reminder of how powerless humans are against their magic.

“Wow,” Lev mutters.

His arm around me loosens.

I step out of his hold.

“Amazing, right?” I say, catching Rian’s stare. My heart thuds, and I tear my gaze away.

Ironheart clears his throat. “Thank you, my lords. Verdanthia is in your debt.”

“Thank Elara,” Draven interjects, arms crossed, once again the untouchable Fae. “She requested our help.”

I did?

“Indeed?” The general’s gaze lands on me.

I resist the urge to fidget.

Rian shifts closer, just enough that the heat of his body brushes my side. Draven mirrors him on my other side.

The general’s nostrils flare, but his words remain polished. “The Elders would reprimand me if I did not invite you to the celebration tomorrow night. As thanks for your noble actions tonight.”

The Elders would do no such thing.

I clamp my lips together to hold back the words.

Lev bristles, unable to show the same control. “That’s not⁠—”

“We will be there,” Rian interrupts, clipped and decisive, ignoring Lev entirely.

The general inclines his head, mouth hardening before he turns away.

And me? I’m caught between two Fae, facing my oldest friend and lover, who watches me with uncertainty and a hint of betrayal I don’t deserve.