He had his own library? Ariadne needed to get to know this gentleman further. She was no expert in magic, nor would she ever be. But she did love learning new things. And books were the second-best way to learn anything.

The first, of course, being stories.

She nodded, slinging the basket around her elbow and gesturing for him to lead the way.

"I really believe in the healing power of plants," she said. "Not just herbal remedies and cures. But just by being there. Being beautiful. Beautiful things can make sad people happy, and bad people good. When you think about it, beautiful things can change the universe." She lowered her eyes, her lashes dark against her cheeks. "At least, that's the way I see it."