Page 94 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

My attention snaps back to the Mountain Fae. “Is the title inherited?”

If it is, why wouldn’t Jason get it? Is Iris older?

“No, our mayor is elected.”

I blink. “Virendrell elected a human mayor?”

“Half human, technically.”

A servant appears at my side and places a sweet-smelling dessert in front of me.

A different servant places one in front of Anders.

I manage a weak “thank you” while my head spins.

So, a city where humans and Fae live together willingly chose to elect a human to represent them. And there’s a chance they will elect a female to succeed him.

There are many ways Virendrell is different from Verdanthia, but those two might be my favorite.

“I understand your surprise.” Anders turns the stem of his water glass between his long fingers. “Prejudice between races isn’t tolerated here, but that is not the case in most of our world.”

No… It isn’t.

I grab my own water glass and bring it to my lips, saving myself from the need to respond.

“You don’t say!” A masculine, exuberant voice rises into the air. “That is incredible!”

All eyes turn to the head of the table.

Augustus’s bright eyes lock on me.

“Miss Stonebloom,” he calls out.

I stiffen.

How does he know my name?

A cold realization follows.

They’ve been talking about me.

“Is it true?” the mayor continues. “Do you possess magic?”

Excited gasps and titters float up among the guests at the table. At Augustus’s side, Jason grins with knowing.

My gaze darts to Darius for guidance, but his dark eyes hide any emotion.

I look to Silas then Draven. Neither gives me a hint on what to say.

With no other option, I meet Rian’s stare.

Onyx greets me. No hints of silver. I search the dark depths for a clue how to respond. But his impassive face reveals nothing.

Jerk.

Rian told me not to discuss my magic, and yet one of the Fae must’ve told the mayor.

Why?