Draco bowed his head to her. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“And this is Saeward.”
“Oh my. I haven’t had the pleasure of an Atlantean’s company in many years. It’s delightful to see you.”
Saeward nodded shyly and stepped a little closer to Draco.
“Have you officially met Loch and Henry?”
“Not officially, no. It’s lovely to meet you both, officially,” Gamayun said with a smile.
Cecil appeared with a tray containing another of his icy concoctions. “Madam, might I offer you an herbal tea?”
“Why thank you. That is exactly what I needed.”
She had a twinkle in her eye. And a matching one appeared in Cecil’s. Andvari’s frown deepened but before he could question what he’d seen, Eduard touched his arm and he understood then that more was going on than he realized. But Eduard also knew more.
Andvari stepped back and let the others talk while Eduard took the lead. Gamayun and Augustus chatted with Sawyer as if they’d known him for years. His mate seemed lighter, happier. One of Andvari’s brethren caught his attention and Andvari turned to go to him. Hartwig waited outside the wards, still surrounded by many of the guards. All of then seemed in awe of the leader’s presence and the honor it held. Andvari hurried to him, and his clan leader stepped through the wards to meet him.
“Thank you for understanding, Andvari. I hope your mate doesn’t take offense to my delay, but I did wish to greet our clansmen and thank them for their continued good work on our clan’s behalf.”
Andvari tried not to react. So much subterfuge went on around them. Vampires were not thanked for their service and good work. It was an honor to serve their clan in such an important role. He played along, though, reminded of Eduard’s gentle touch on his arm.
“Of course, not. He is being entertained by your companion as we speak.”
“Excellent,” Hartwig said. “Now, the others have shown me their duties. Why don’t you share yours with me?”
“Yes, sir.” Andvari turned away from the backyard, instead leading Hartwig around to the front. “We have wards set out, of course. No one with ill intentions toward Sawyer can pass even if Henry has allowed them entrance.”
Hartwig nodded, then paused, looking out over the valley. “Word is out, Andvari.”
Andvari closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again. “Yes, sir.”
“Many will come to see him. You must be prepared. They do not understand that he is a human, but your mate has gathered many supporters in his short time in our world. Many powerful supporters who are speaking very well of him.”
“And what do the others think?”
“They are skeptical, of course. Most want to see for themselves. But darkness also rises. For every one who is for him, another is against. Many fear the unknown, and that there are even darker times ahead. It is difficult to trust a human. Easier to trust those who seed doubt and fear, as they have shared history and we know humans are not to be trusted with our secrets.”
“We’ll keep him safe.”
“I have no doubt.”
“Gamayun suggested Henry read a book of yours. Gregorovich’s Grimoire. I wondered if you would mind letting him borrow it.”
“Not if Gamayun suggested it.”
“Who is she?” Andvari asked, curiosity finally getting the better of him.
“She is Gamayun,” Hartwig said. “That is enough for now. She cannot stay long, and therefore neither can I. I am leaving more guards with you and have called on another contingent from our brother clans. I have found a way to keep them from being affected by the dark magic, and will share it with anyone tasked with protecting your mate. That is all I can offer to you.”
“That is all I could ask for and more, my Leader.”
“You are a noble warrior, Andvari, and serve our people well.”
It was the highest praise his leader could give, and it took Andvari’s breath away. “Thank you.”
“Take me to meet this mate of yours. I find myself curious.”
