"Anything in High-Veyrani," Lorraine called over her shoulder, her voice bright with purpose. "I need to know if Hadrian uncovered the true story of the fall of House Aurelthar."
The ladder rattled faintly as she stretched higher. Leroy tightened his grip, heart in his throat. "Will you at least be careful?"
"Yes, Your Highness," Lorraine teased, a soft laugh tumbling down to him. She'd done this countless times before. She didn't fear it.
But Leroy still stood there, steadying the ladder with both hands, ready to catch her the instant she slipped, even if she never did.
"Get some books, Leroy," she called, distracted, intent on her search.
He rolled his eyes, but obeyed. There was no moving her when her curiosity was aflame. So he dragged the wheeled ladder to the next shelf, climbed up, and ran his fingers along the thick binders. Nothing looked useful, until his hand paused on a half-burnt book.
