Page 37 of Shifting Fate (Descendants)

“Are they alive?” I asked.

He clicked his tongue. “You are testing my patience, Brianna. Let me tell you the story.”

I waited.

He sat staring at me for a few seconds before starting again, as if to be sure I would actually comply. “I know what the others think,” he said. “But Tarian was my ally.”

It took me a moment to recall where I’d heard the name, but Morgan saw when recognition lit my face.

“That’s right,” he said. “The man they claim was responsible for the death of my father.” He tapped a finger casually on his leg. “Tarian had things prepared for me, Brianna. He created an army.”

“Morgan—”

He held up a hand to stop me. “Granted, I’ve had to build it up myself since then, but he gave me the tools I’d need to survive.” He leaned forward, a hint of awe unexpectedly crossing his features, and said, “I didn’t believe him. For all those years, I never thought it was possible. They were no more than legend,” he shook his head, “but even lore had them killed off so long ago. There was no living record of them, anywhere.” He moved closer, drawing a strand of my hair between his fingers. “You’re so like her, Brianna.”

I felt my jaw go tight, the wounds at my wrists pulling hard against their bonds. Morgan closed his eyes, taking in the scent of me. “I should have seen it then. She was so strong, so confident she knew what to do to win. I was a fool. How could anyone have seen the truth, have believed it? But it’s the only way. The prophecy makes sense now, because of the two of you.” His nose brushed my cheek, his breath slow and easy as he brought his lips to my ear and whispered, “Shadow.”