“There have been…political obstacles,” Soren admits. “And after what happened with Mia killing Council Member Valmont, there will be consequences—”
“Lucien just declared war on the witches,” Dad cuts in. “That’s going to send shockwaves through both communities. The Conclave won’t be able to ignore this – they’ll have to take decisive action now.”
Mom steps forward, her face set with determination. “This will flush out the traitors, too. Force everyone to show their true colors.”
Marcus nods. “Not everyone in the Blood Assembly supports Lucien. While gathering allies, I’ve sensed growing oppositionto his methods. He’s built his support through blackmail and threats, not loyalty.”
I glance at Marcus despite myself. The way he says it, with such quiet certainty, makes me wonder just how deep his intelligence network runs. For a moment, our eyes meet and that strange energy from earlier crackles between us again.
I look away quickly. “So, what’s the plan, then? How do we get both councils to meet?”
“Let me worry about that,” says Dad. “The Blackwood name still holds some sway in these circles. And now, with what’s happened to Mother…” His jaw tightens. “I’m going to call for an emergency gathering.”
“Another one,” Rowan mutters, clearly not convinced.
“Things have changed, sweets,” says Darick. “With all that’s happened, I think we can be sure that we have their attention now.” He glances at Marcus. “Do you still have things lined up with the others?”
Marcus gives a curt nod. “Elias and Selene haven’t taken their eye off the ball since it all began. I believe they’ve gathered the evidence we need.”
“Thank fuck,” Darick huffs out. “Arabella’s been pigheaded about it.”
“Do you think she’s under his influence?” Dad asks.
Marcus shrugs. “Impossible to tell. The Grand Elder has always remained neutral. But she’s not immune to personal bias.”
“I think she’s been influenced from within.” Darick rubs his jaw.
“Wouldn’t surprise me,” Marcus agrees. “I can get someone into her court to see what comes up.”
“We don’t have time for that now,” I snap. “Gran’s out there with that animal doing who-knows-what to her. We need to act fast.”
“We need to gather allies and go in with a plan,” Marcus disagrees. So, of course, I want to smack him.
“Vampireallies, no doubt.” My lip curls. “Typical. This is what vampires do – take what they want and destroy lives. We don’t need any more of your kind interfering, thank you very much.”
“Kara, wait. Marcus is right,” Dad says, annoying me too. “I agree that we need to confront Marlowe head-on, but it’s going to take a strong force. We need all the help we can get.” He turns to Marcus. “Are you willing to work with us from your side?”
“Of course,” he responds immediately.
Darick is nodding. “This is all of our fight now.”
“Then it’s settled,” says Dad.
“No! Wait,” I say, then bite down on my lip when everyone stares at me.
Crap.
“Do you have something to add?” Dad tilts his head.
I glare at Marcus, then look over at my parents.
Crap. Crap.
I have no reason to object aside from not liking the man. I’m being unreasonable, and that’s unlike me.
“No,” I say limply. “Sounds good.”
Sounds terrible. But there’s nothing to be done. Like it or not, I’m going to have to deal with Marcus Nightshade.
