Page 102 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

“Fae allied with humans in the war?” The words are barely louder than a breath.

But Anders hears me just fine.

“They did.”

I search his blue eyes. “Why?”

Why would powerful Fae risk their lives to stand against King Marek?

“Many of the unmated Mountain Fae who founded Virendrell wed humans,” he answers quietly. “They were concerned for their descendants and their future. They wanted to stop Marek from spreading his cursed rule to our land. And they succeeded… but their victory cost them their lives.”

The information spins around my head, evading my attempts to try to make sense of it.

Fae allied with humans.

They successfully kept the king’s influence from Virendrell.

My throat tightens when I recall the words I'd thrown at Augustus last night—my accusation that Virendrell stood by while Verdanthia suffered.

“Over time, the fair coloring of the Mountain Fae was overtaken by the darker features of the island’s original human settlers,” Anders continues, unaware of my inner turmoil. “Today, almost every citizen of Virendrell descends from one of those first Fae. Very few bloodlines remain entirely human.”

“That’s…” I shake my head slowly. “...incredible.”

“I suppose it is.” Anders extends his arm once more. “Come. Let’s find that book I want you to read.”

I swallow past the lump in my throat and slide my hand in the crook of his elbow.

Anders leads me through the aisles, stopping once we reach the far wall. Leather spines gleam under lanternlight, titles stamped in gold. Anders tilts his head, scanning the third shelf, humming softly to himself.

I stand still, waiting, trying to stop my thoughts from dwelling on the tragic demise of the Mountain Fae who founded the one place where humans are not treated as second-class citizens.

“Ah-ha.” Anders pulls down a thin leather book and hands it to me. “Here you are.”

I take the volume and turn it over. The title, written in the common tongue, reads: A Beginner’s Guide to the Healing Arts, Second Edition.

“With your reputation, I imagine most of this information will be familiar. But just in case, it’s best to start with the basics.”

“I agree.” A smile tugs the corner of my lip.

I’m eager for any information to help me with my task—something different from the random Fae book from King Marek’s royal library or a diary filled with a Fae female’s musings about a visiting human prince.

Though, I really should read the next entry.

Last night, just before sleep claimed me, I’d reached an entry where the prince asked to meet the Fae in the gardens after morning tea. She was convinced it meant he wanted to explore their growing attraction.

I think she might be right.

“Thank you for being willing to help me.” I press the book to my chest. “Truly. I appreciate it.”

“Of course.” Anders grins. “Healers must look out for one another. Especially when one is so talented despite honing her skills under the cursed king’s laws.”

My smile tightens.

I shift my stance.

That’s the second time Anders has mentioned something about a curse.

Should I ask him about Darius? About the darkness coiled inside the Shadow Fae?