“You’re not the only shadowblessed in Spinner’s End.” At least, I hope he isn’t. “I’ll find someone else to help me.”

He looks amused and lifts the lantern higher for better illumination. “Are you looking for something specific or just enjoying the identical rows of shelves? Seeing as you’re not familiar with the library’s layout, it’ll take you weeks to browse everything.”

It irritates me that he’s right. While perusing the books to my heart’s content would be ideal, my priority is to learn as much as I can in the brief time Ronin has allotted me.

I look around the shadowy aisles, wondering if I should return in the morning with Saengo. My stomach dips as I wonder if she’s returned to our room.

“History,” I say reluctantly. “I think.”

Theyen turns away, not even looking back to ensure I’m following. I entertain the idea of letting him saunter off on his own and seeing how long it takes for him to realize and double back. But I can’t waste any more time. So I sigh and hurry after him.

We weave through the shelves, at last stopping before a row of old books and loosely bound manuscripts. “These are Scholar archives of various points in Thiy’s history. You’ll find them organized by kingdom.”

“Thank you,” I say slowly, suspicious of his helpfulness.

“Tomorrow morning.” He hands me the lantern.

“What?”

“Before dawn. Shadowblessed are at their best in the dark.”

“You still want to help me?” I ask, dubious.

“I don’t see why not. Besides, Spinner’s End is sorely lacking in people who can hold a conversation for more than two sentences.”

“Maybe that’s because they’re in a hurry to rid themselves of your company.” I pull a book titled Early Evewyn and the Age of the Drake Queens from the shelf and settle it into the crook of my elbow.

He sounds amused. “Must be how ‘insufferable’ I am.”

“Must be,” I echo lightly as I crouch to look at the lower shelves.

Without a word of farewell, he turns away. His footsteps are silent as he disappears into the dark.

Thank the Sisters. What an excruciatingly unpleasant man, and I’ve known many. At least he was of use. And although I’d like to pretend I’ve no intention of meeting him in the morning, it would be a lie. I’d be a fool to reject the opportunity.

Once I’ve acquired a few more books, I gather up the stack, balance the lantern on top, and make my way out. Fortunately, I don’t run into Theyen again.