Ignoring the inquiry entirely, I shift my focus onto the blonde men across from me, “We need something that will causeenough disruption to distract the guards long enough for us to access the main ventilation system. From there, it’s simply a matter of surpassing the traps my mother has laid in place.”
“What kind of traps?”
“The kind that kill you.”
Marlin states it simply, his gaze roaming over the papers, “We need something that will distract the Dragon for a prolonged period of time.”
“Or someone.”
At my curious glance, Vector offers me a shrug, “Aren’t the best distractions the ones you can’t run from? Get someone to sneak inside the party and stir shit up.”
It’s the perfect solution except for one silly little fact.
“The Dragon doesn’t have enemies. Her power lies in allies, and those who oppose her reign are not brave enough to take action.”
Marlin supplies the information, his fingers making quick work of his shirt sleeves.
“What we need is an explosion of some sort, something that will-
“Vector is right.”
Violet orbs flash with irritation but I pay him no attention. Leaning over the table, I touch the stain wrinkling our papers. The innocent mark left by a misplaced teabag.
“We need someone to cause a scene. Someone who will spread chaos and confusion among the crowd. Someone who will strike fear in the darkest heart present.”
My lips break apart as the taste of victory spills across my tongue, “And lucky for us, he lives right around the corner.”
There’s a moment of silence.
“Who?”
Vector starts to look bored while Christopher grows more confused. I ignore both of them and wait for the man across from me to clue in.
It doesn’t take long. And when it does, his eyes brighten with a dangerous fire.
“Is he still alive?”
“The last time I checked.”
Another beat passes as we stare at each other.
“Is anyone going to explain what’s going on or should I start guessing?”
Marlin looks down, toying with his cufflinks as a low chuckle escapes his throat.
“It would seem our plan has made a detour.”
I bite back a grin, “You’ve always wanted to visit Hollow House.”
“Wandering through an insane asylum has been on my bucket list for far too long.” Licking his lips, he nods slowly, “And I do believe there is something waiting for me.”
Christopher blanks, “We’re talking about breaking into the loony bin?”
“Not entirely.” Marlin pauses, catching my eye, “We’re going to break out the longest standing patient.”
Anticipation fizzles in the air between us, the plethora of possibilities blooming like an oasis in this miserable town.
“Are you going to make me ask again?” Annoyance laces Christopher’s voice, his usual position as team leader well and thoroughly revoked, “Who are we talking about?”
