Page 102 of Prince of Darkness and Deceit

I draw my hands to my lap. “Why wouldn’t I? Darius hasn’t wronged me.”

“Most humans wouldn't share the same sentiment.” His voice is measured, assessing.

Right. Fae are our enemies. And yet…I don’t know why, but I’ve never considered Darius my enemy. He’s always just been my patient.

“I’m not someone who judges a person based on things they can’t control,” I finally say when Rian continues to stare. The dark marks on my arms swirl under his attention. “Actions mean more.”

“What about me? Do you consider me your enemy based on my actions?”

I hold his gaze. “You threatened my town.”

“And saved your life outside the forge.”

“And nearly fought one of the top military officers in the tavern that same night.”

A dark brow lifts. “That seems more like a mark in my favor, don’t you think?”

I do.

It’s certainly more than Lev did for me…

My eyes stinging, I turn back to Darius, remove the cloth, and place it back in the basin. “Why are you asking me these questions?”

“I…don’t know.”

His confused tone draws my attention once more. He’s staring at the book. His face is unreadable, but shadows whip around him, agitated.

Then he meets my stare. “Is healing the only thing you’ve ever done with your magic?”

I suck in a breath. My gaze darts to the tent flap.

“Relax. The tent is warded. No one can hear us.”

I tilt my head at the unfamiliar term. “What does warded mean?”

“It’s a type of spell. My magic surrounds us, blocking out both people and sound.”

My eyes widen. “Wow.”

“I know. I’m impressive.” He smirks, then prompts, “So…your magic?”

I purse my lips and shake my head. “Other than the night those beasts attacked, I haven’t used it for anything but healing. That was the first time I was able to use it as a⁠—”

I cut off. Nerves flutter my pulse.

Dark eyes flicker. “As what? A weapon?”

I swallow, grab the bowl of broth from the table, and swirl the spoon. “Yes.”

“In time, you will be able to do much more.”

My hand stills. “Really?”

“With help, yes.”

“Help? From the book?” I glance at the tome in his hands.

“And me.”