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“And the shadow fae?”

It was a question that had been hovering in the back of her thoughts since her conversation with Colton about the origin of the fae wars and the prejudice against the shadow fae.

“If a wound is severe enough, the shadow fae can die by blade like any other,” the prince said with obvious caution in his tone. “But fire is the most effective way—by burning the body. Without trapping a shadow fae with fire or light magic, they can continue to step between shadows and evade capture.”

She had so many more questions about how this had played out in the fae wars. But by the way Arden’s eyes narrowed, she didn’t think now was the best time to inquire.

Arden cleared his throat. “If that’s all, let’s proceed with your training.”

Without another word, she threw herself back into learning everything she could.

Hours later, she’d attempted to hide herself in the shadows more times than she could count, and she’d only managed to do it properly once.

Sweat poured off her, and she’d long since removed her leather jacket.

“That’s enough for today,” Arden said as she took a swig from one of the waterskins. “Rest. I’ll see you this evening. There’s something I’d like to show you.”

She merely nodded, utterly exhausted.

Arden and Colton exited the cavern, disappearing into the tunnels.

She walked up to where Jessamine sat and slumped down beside her. Lying back on the cool stones, Arabella looked at the ceiling several stories up.

Jessamine nodded to the side of her head. “Your ears are different now.”

Hands flying up, Arabella’s fingers closed around…

Pointed ears.

“That didn’t take long.” She shook her head as though to dispel the surprise. “It doesn’t matter if Elias is safe by the end of this.”

“You’re my bitch no matter what your ears look like,” Jessamine said with a wink.

Arabella scrunched her nose. “Winking isn’t a good look on anyone. And you can’t convince me otherwise.”

Jessamine snorted. “Perhaps you’re right.”

“You doing all right?” Arabella asked, realizing it had been some time since she’d checked in on her friend.

With a nod, Jessamine said, “I’ve never gone so long without actuallydoinganything. But I’m fine. Just trying to not let worry get the best of me.”

This would have been the longest stretch Jessamine had gone without being home and being needed for some crisis. It had been strange for Arabella to be removed from combat when she’d become Elias’ offering. She could imagine what it must feel like for Jessamine to spend so much time away from home—and the constant fear for everyone’s safety.

“Why did you come with me and not go back to Shadowbank?” Arabella asked. “And I’m not asking for reassurance. I guess I’m just curious why.”

“You mean, outside of the fact that we’re best friends and supporting each other is what friends do?” Jessamine asked, one brow raised.

A smile played along Arabella’s lips. “Outside of that.”

Jessamine placed the whetstone down and sheathed her blade. “When a person’s heart is whole, they are the best versions of themselves—the best friend, warrior, and people they can be. And I think when you have your mate at your side, Shadowbank will also have its best chance of surviving whatever comes next.” She paused, shrugging. “Besides, not all of us arethe main characters in the story. Perhaps I’m right where I need to be—keeping you alive so you can save the day.”

Arabella rolled her eyes. “You can shove that main character nonsense.”

Jessamine smiled, but a serious look returned to her eyes. “Shadowbank’s ward doesn’t have long. We knew that, at some point, we’d have to risk everything for the chance to live. And I’m choosing to bet on my friend.”

Reaching over, Arabella grabbed Jessamine’s hand and squeezed.

“I don’t deserve you. But I appreciate you all the same,” Arabella said. “What do you think you’ll do when all this is over?”