Page 215 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

Rian opens his mouth to respond, but his jaw closes a second later. His head tilts to the side, lifting a tapered ear.

The muscle in his cheek twitches before he says, “That won’t be necessary.”

I frown. “Why not?”

His dark eyes slide to the door’s threshold.

“Because he’s already here.” A tinge of annoyance laces his words.

My head snaps to the opening right as movement disrupts the dark, and my gaze lands on the tall, lean figure that shifts into view.

And everything I thought I knew about the people of Virendrell is rocked to its core. Again.

“You?”

40

My eyes deceive me.

They must.

Because there is no way he is here.

The male who wears a golden medallion depicting him as an honored member of the mayor’s service stands in the foreboding doorway, ready to lead me out of his city.

The male's lips draw into a tight smile. “Hello, Elara.”

I stare at the Mountain Fae then swing my stare to the Shadow Prince. “Anders is your contact?”

The palace healer doesn’t so much as blink.

Rian smirks. “As you can see.”

This…this doesn’t make sense.

My gaze darts between the Fae, remembering the exchanges between the two these past few days. The pointed glares. The terse words.

They’re working together?

They’re allies?

Anders clears his throat.

“I know this is a shock, but we really should get going.” His gaze darts to the water-stained ceiling above. “The pirates have almost reached the palace wall.”

“Pirates?” Rian’s spine snaps straight. “You’re sure?”

The sharpness in his voice slices through my spiraling thoughts.

Are pirates more trouble than Sea Fae?

Anders dips his chin, eyes hard. “I am. They’re razing through the city center as we speak.”

Rian growls. “Why the fuck would pirates be here?”

“Your guess is as good as mine.” Anders’s blue eyes slide to mine. “Though, I imagine our guesses might be the same.”

The power in my veins thrums with warning.