“We have a way for you to create your spectacle at the ballandsolidify your alliance with the Midnight Court without killing Alaric or forcing him to marry Perdita,” I explain. “You will unmask the vampire murderer who is hidingin this community.”
“You can administer the Mora at the ball,” Alaric says, a hint of disgust in his voice.
Callista narrows her eyes at me. “You do know what I enjoy, son. I’m listening.”
“We know that a vampire murdered Danny O’Hare by way of husking,” Gideon says. “That vampire has thus far escaped both human and vampiric justice. But as we know, once a vampire husks a human, their hunger cannot be sated any other way. The killer hasn’t struck again, but they will find it difficult to resist. And as they have done this husking in broad moonlight, knowing their actions would be noticed by our kin, they are the type who thrives on being the centre of attention. They will not miss your ball. After all, you’ve invited anyone who’s anyone in the vampire world. They will enjoy listening to the gossip, knowing that they are safe … until they’re not. When the time is right, you will unmask the killer for everyone to see.”
“You’ll be the heroine,” I add.
Callista licks her lips. Her fingers play with the Thrall’s neck. “And who, precisely, will I be unmasking?”
“We don’t know yet, but we have suspects,” Gideon says.
“Anda way to draw the killer out of hiding,” I point to my own chest. “Fresh human blood, ripe for the taking. We’ll have human staff at the ball, listening and gathering information, tempting the killer out of hiding. And not just any humans – we’ll have the Nevermore Murder Club and Smutty Book Coven – the best amateur supernatural detectives the world has ever known.”
Probably theonlyamateur supernatural detectives the world has ever known, but Callista doesn’t need to be reminded of that.
“You propose to be bait for this killer?” Callista’s eyes burn into me. “And to bring more un-Thralled humans to my ball?”
Alaric’s jaw works, but he doesn’t protest. I square my shoulders and meet Callista’s cold gaze. “I do.”
“And my son will have you on his arm?” Her nails dig into the Thrall’s flesh. “A human as his …betrothed, in directviolation of our laws.”
“Unlike the taboo of husking, the restrictions on human/vampire relations have been outdated for years,” Gideon says easily. “The law is to prevent the risk of Dhampir, but now that there are many ways to ensure a human woman cannot become pregnant, the law is no longer required.”
“Contraception,” Alaric says proudly, as if the word itself is magical.
I suppose, in a way, it is.
“Vampire and human relations are a hot topic right now. I know your conservative court will baulk at the idea of changing this law, but it’s already being discussed in progressive circles and considered by the Midnight Court,” Gideon explains. “The Americans have already done away with their Dhampir restrictions.”
Alaric explained to me that American vampires didn’t fall under the court system, but had split off decades ago and were looked after by a large and influential tech company.
“I don’t care what those crazed capitalists do,” Callista spits.
“No, but you do care about making this Nightshade Court and Midnight Court alliance work, and if the Lady of Agony shows her approval for a human and Upyr relationship while also administering the Mora to a known husker, that will send a message to all factions that while you have no issues dealing out justice in accordance with our savage ancient laws, you are willing to bend to accommodate new ways for our kind to exist in the world,” Gideon explains. “My members will be as impressed by your progressive thinking as they are by your brutality. It will play well for you politically, even more so than if you were to wed Alaric and Perdita.”
“Opening the doors to human and vampire relations could have many other benefits, too,” I add. “New alliances, business opportunities, maybe even wars that need vampire mercenaries – you could keep those rebels too busy and sated by bloodlust to think about crossing you.”
Alaric’s eyes fall on me, dark with surprise. I grin at him. I’ve learned a little about psychology dealing with my clients.I know how to make spoiled, rich bitches do things they don’t want to do.
I’ve just never tried it on awarlordess before.
“Ithasbeen a long time since I’ve administered the Mora.” Callista’s tongue licks her lips. “Although I am disgusted by the idea of humans and vampires lying together, it is a small price to pay to solidify my power. Very well, since Gideon and Alaric seem convinced this will work, I am willing to try it. But the killermustbe unmasked by the Witching Hour or I will choose another head to place upon my favourite spike.”
She smiles at me. Cold fear drips down my spine.
“And what of Perdita?” Alaric asks.
“She has campaigned for a relaxing of the rules regarding human relations, although I believe it’s because she wishes to keep some flimsy human artist as a pet. Leave it to me to convince her to go along with this wild plan.”
“Thank you, Mother.” Alaric offers her a bow of his head, although his eyes never leave her face.
“Now that we have decided, make your plans as you will. If you’ll excuse me,” Callista rises, snapping her fingers for her Thrall to follow. “I’ll need to sharpen my sword. But first, it’s time for breakfast.”
She sweeps out of the room, leaving a cold spot behind her.
Alaric stares at me with awe. “I don’t know how you convinced her.”
