Page 30 of Prince of Darkness and Deceit

My heart pounds, but not from the threat.

“You…” I whisper, then pause to lick my lips. “You knew who I was before I spoke at the meeting.”

This time, it’s the unnamed Fae who speaks. “We’d heard stories of a skilled mortal healer in Verdanthia.”

He appears calm, but the energetic shadows swirling around his feet tell a different story.

Draven sneers and adds, “Except we expected a capable old crone, not a simpering, weak-willed⁠—”

“Enough,” the Fae snaps, jerking his head to the exit. “Jaxon.”

Jaxon shoves Draven toward the tent flap. “Let’s go.”

Draven bares his teeth. “Don’t fucking touch me.”

His friend doesn’t listen.

Shadows wrap around Draven’s torso, joining Jaxon in his efforts.

Draven roars when he’s finally shoved outside. My ears ring as I wait for him to rush back in.

He doesn’t.

I continue to stare at the swaying fabric and begin to piece together the puzzle thrown into my lap.

Fae came to Verdanthia. They said they’d heard rumors that a rebellion was rising here. Was that true? Or was it a ruse? A ruse to get to…me?

“Forgive Draven. Our companion’s ailment has been a strain on us all.”

I drag my gaze away from Draven’s retreating curses. The smoky shadows in the unnamed Fae’s eyes flicker when I meet his stare.

My throat dries.

Shit.

We’re alone.

I back up, my hand landing on the crowded table. “I-I can imagine.”

He doesn’t speak. He just watches me. Waiting.

I dig my fingernails into the wood. “H-how did you hear about me?”

Who ratted me out to mankind's worst enemy?

Shadows curl down his arms, flowing to the floor.

I glance at my own, unsurprised to see the shadows remain, though their color isn’t as pronounced as before. As if they’re wearing off like a graphite mark on stone that’s left out in the rain.

“Our squad was passing through Cardovia when our soldier fell ill.”

I lift my gaze, surprised he answered.

He continues, wearing a careful mask. “We heard rumors of a miracle worker living in Verdanthia. So, we came here.”

Damn.

I had no idea my reputation had traveled so far.