Blood Bred 03 - New Beginnings

BLOOD BRED SERIES BOOK 3: NEW BEGINNINGS

By JennaKay Francis

Writers Exchange E-Publishing http://www.readerseden.com/ http://www.writers-exchange.com/

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BLOOD BRED SERIES BOOK 3: NEW BEGINNINGS Copyright 2007 JennaKay Francis Writers Exchange E-Publishing PO Box 372 ATHERTON QLD 4883 Cover Art by: Glenda Diana Published Online by Writers Exchange E-Publishing http://www.writers-exchange.com http://www.readerseden.com ISBN: 9781921314353 All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author and have no relation to anyone bearing the same name or names. Any resemblance to individuals known or unknown to the author are purely coincidental.

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NEW BEGINNINGS By JennaKay Francis

Adan pulled his black cloak tighter about his lithe frame. His breath frosted in the cold, dank air of the dark alleyway. The moon was high but shed little light on the lands below. Perfect, thought Adan. His gaze shifted toward the streets beyond the alley. Soon, it would be soon. He could feel it. The taverns were closing up. The intoxicated patrons would be disgorged like so much vile waste, to sully the streets and dark alleys until next eve's revelry. A shudder ran through Adan, but it was not from the cold. The tremors always got worse before they got better. He knew that. He lived with that. And he could fix that. He just had to have patience. His keen hearing picked up the sounds of footfalls, echoing dully against the tall, wooden structures on either side of him. He remained still, waiting, blending into the darkness surrounding him. In a moment, a young man stumbled down the alley, muttering softly to himself. Adan drew a deep, slow breath, reaching out with his Vector magic. Yes, this man had just recently taken a dose of hack, the drug Adan craved, the drug Adan needed. He waited until the man was almost past him, before he stepped into his path. The man stumbled to a stop with a gasp. His gaze lifted to study Adan's face. Though he was not a small man, Adan, at well over six feet, towered over him, and the man staggered backward to get a better glimpse, blinking rapidly, eyes obviously blurred from drink or drug. "Good eve," Adan said quietly. The young man frowned, as if unsure how to respond. He shrugged, and attempted to pass Adan. Adan stopped him yet again, gripping his arm. "What do you want?" the man slurred.

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"You," Adan answered quietly, and pulled the man toward him. His bite was vicious, his feeding more so, his lust brought on by his need for the drug in the man's blood. It had been too long since he'd fed. Lost in the euphoria of the hack that now coursed through his body, Adan released his grip on his victim. The man sprawled to the cold ground. Adan stared down at him for a few moments, then, snugging his cloak, he turned and melted into the darkness.

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Chapter 1 Baris looked up from his journal at the sound of voices. Voices he knew. A surge of joy coursed through him as his wife, Anika, led a tall, dark haired man into the study. Baris rose, extending his hand. "Jaeger! What are you doing here? It's been a long time." The man smiled, accepting Baris' forearm embrace. "It has." "Did you bring Rhiannon? And the children?" "No, I'm afraid I didn't." He paused. "I...I need to speak with you on an important matter." Anika tipped her head at Jaeger. "I'll fetch you a drink, then leave you two to talk," she said and quickly slipped out of the room. Baris smiled and motioned Jaeger to a chair beside the desk, then lowered his towering, lithe frame back into his own chair. "So, what's wrong? Something with Rhiannon?" "No, Rhia is fine." He let out a heavy sigh. "I came at the request of Darius." Baris drew back. A momentary surge of panic swept through him, and his hand reflexively moved toward his left arm. "Darius?" he whispered. "What does he want with me? What have I done?" Jaeger smiled, his gaze moving momentarily to Baris' arm, though he said nothing. He reached out to give Baris' shoulder a reassuring grip. "Old ways die hard. Do remember that Darius is not Cardiss. He does not have the same punitive rule as Cardiss did. Besides, you have done nothing. Sovereign Darius only wishes your expertise, shall we say." "My expertise? What could I possibly know that he doesn't?" Jaeger started to answer then stopped as Anika returned with two tankards of cold ale. She sat them on the table, cast a quick glance at Jaeger, and left as quietly as she had come in. Jaeger looked at the closed door thoughtfully. "Doesn't she like me?"

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Baris was startled by the words. "Of course she does! I think she's a bit intimidated by you is all." It was Jaeger's turn to be surprised. "By me? Why? I'm not even full Vector." Baris managed a small smile, despite the fact that his heart was doing double time. "Perhaps intimidated isn't the right word. Embarrassed might be better. She's still a bit unsettled about all that occurred between her and I almost two years ago. I have to admit, I'm highly embarrassed over that whole incident myself. I wish I could erase it from my past, and my memory." Jaeger took a sip of his ale and fixed his dark gaze on Baris. "Well, actually, that's exactly what I'm here to discuss with you." Baris felt the color drain from his cheeks. "I thought you said that I'd done nothing wrong. Why would Darius –" "I told you," Jaeger interrupted. "He needs your exper – assistance with something. It seems that there is another Vector who has fallen prey to the ravages of hack. He is refusing to even acknowledge his pledge to the Sovereign. He has basically gone his own way. Darius would like us to intervene. He doesn't want this to become a nasty state of affairs." Baris digested the words slowly, trying to drown them with a large swallow of ale. Just the mention of hack set his skin crawling. He'd had enough of that torture. The days he had spent under the influence of the powerful drug were only a blurred memory, but he could still clearly see the dead body of the boy he had taken as his consort during that time. A boy who had died because of him. He had used the boy as a food source, but more than that, he has used the boy as a way to ease his own cravings for the hack. Even now, he could remember the euphoria that had swept through him each time he had taken the blood of a person high on hack. It was a euphoria not met by simply ingesting the drug in its leaf form. A shudder ran up his spine and he took another long pull on his ale, only wanting to distance himself from any more conversation. "I...I don't see why Darius just doesn't take this Vector into the Lair by force. It's his right as Sovereign."

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"That has been the right of the Sovereign in the past," Jaeger agreed. "But do remember that when Darius assumed the position of Sovereign, he gave the Vectors freer rein to pursue their own lives." "Then why does he care what this Vector is doing?" "Because this Vector is giving us all a bad name, Baris. I don't need to tell you how tenuous our acceptance into this human society is. One Vector out there doing ill deeds affects us all. We certainly don't want to get back to the point of being hunted and killed simply for who we are. At least, I don't. And I don't wish to jeopardize my family either." The words startled Baris. "You think that would happen? All of our spouses are witches. I don't think common folk would dare to –" "Think, man!" Jaeger interrupted. "Rhiannon's clan were hunted and killed for years. In fact, it's only their association with the Vectors that has brought them any peace at all." "Then perhaps the common folk having a fear of Vectors is a good thing," Baris returned. Jaeger sighed. "To a point, I agree. But only to a point. I would much prefer that we were respected, not feared. And I certainly don't like the fear this particular Vector is spreading about him. He has done a lot of killing. And he's not been too particular about his victims either. From the reports, he's killed men, women and even children." Baris drew a deep breath and rose, gripping his tankard with both hands. He went to the window and peered out, though he focused on nothing beyond. His mind's eye again saw the body of the boy he had commanded. He couldn't get rid of the image despite the fact that he had been assured that Antyn's death was not his doing. It had been an overdose of the hack that had killed him, something that probably would have eventually occurred with or without Baris being involved. Still, the boy wouldn't have been attacked, nearly beaten to death, if it hadn't been for his relationship with Baris. And he wouldn't have tried to calm that pain with more hack

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than his frail body could endure. Baris felt almost as if he owed it to Antyn to stop this other Vector from claiming victims. Almost. The thought of once again entering the dark and vile world of the drug abusers was not a pleasant one. He didn't relish the thought of slinking through dark alleys, of rubbing shoulders with those associated with the drug. "I'll leave you to think on it," Jaeger said, rising. "But do let me know. If you do not wish to accompany me, I shall have to go it alone." Baris turned to fully face the man. "Jaeger, you don't know what you're putting yourself into. You may think you're strong, but just one wrong person to feed on, and you'll be swept into living hell." "Then I'll have to be careful." "You may not be able to sense those who have used the drug," Baris pointed out gently. Jaeger drew himself up stiffly. "I am aware of my human half, Baris. I am aware of my weaknesses. I have always compensated for them in the past. I shall continue to do so. Good day." He gave a tip of his head and disappeared, using his Vector magic that would spirit him back to the Lair where he would report to Darius. Just the thought sent quivers of fear through Baris, though what Jaeger had said was true. Since his rise to Sovereign, Darius had allowed the Vectors to live their own lives. Gone was the constant intrusion and brutally enforced loyalty of his predecessor. Obedience was now done out of respect, not tyranny. Still, Baris remembered all too well his time spent under the rule of first Sovereign Cardiss, then his High Chancellor Riden. Old habits, and fears, did indeed die hard. "Baris?" Anika entered the room quietly, stopping before her husband. Her blue eyes held worry and fear. "What's wrong? What did Jaeger want?" Baris hesitated. "He brought a message from Sovereign Darius, that's all." Baris drew her into his arms, burying his face in her dark hair, savoring the feel of her pregnant belly against his hard, flat one. "It's nothing."

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She was quiet a moment, her arms wrapped about his waist. Then she pushed back and looked up into his eyes. "It was something. Something that has disturbed you a great deal. Will you share it with me?" Baris sighed, not because he didn't want to share with her, but because he didn't want to even think about those awful times. He stroked her cheek gently. "He wanted me to help him find another Vector. Seems the man has gotten himself involved with hack. Darius wanted me to assist Jaeger in curing this Vector of his addiction." "And you will help?" Anika asked, her blue eyes searching his. "Help?" He released her with a heavy sigh. "How can I help, Anika? I took that long road hack offered. It was hell, Anika. I don't want to travel it again." "But why would you? Darius isn't asking you to get involved with taking the drug, Baris. He only wants your help in freeing another of your kind from its evil clutches. You, above all, should know what this Vector is going through. Why won't you help?" Baris studied her a moment, then returned to his desk. He picked up the quill and fiddled with it, avoiding her gaze. How could he tell her that even now memories of the hack stayed with him? That even now, so many months later, he could still remember the euphoric rush the drug provided? Yes, it had been hell purging it from his body, but while he took it, he had wanted nothing more than to continue to do so. And perhaps he still yearned for it. He wasn't so sure that he could resist the lure of the powerful drug. And that irritated him. He had always prided himself on his Vector strength. For most of his long life he had been in control. The fact that Deirdre, one of his wife's clan members, could so easily seduce him, manipulate him with her magic, was bad enough. But the ease with which hack had claimed him was too much for him to accept. Yet, it had happened. Baris wasn't so sure that it wouldn't happen again. He just didn't want to take that risk. Besides there was always the implant to contend with. Anika didn't know of that. Neither did Jaeger, or so Baris hoped. It was humiliating enough that he, himself, knew. He purposely kept his gaze from his arm, from the small, nearly invisible red patch of skin that belied the presence of the implant. It was his only 10

punishment, his only payment for the men he had killed while under Deirdre's seduction. At times he felt as if he didn't deserve it, at times he felt as if he deserved so much more than having his Vector strength sapped by the presence of the implant. Your strength killed the victims, Darius had said. It seems appropriate that your strength is now the victim. Baris wasn't sure he agreed, but he'd had little say in the matter at the time. It was either the implant or a gaol cell somewhere in Terska. At least with the implant, he could be here with his family. Something those men he had killed were denied. Anika approached him, and squeezed his shoulder gently. "It's your choice then, Baris," she said quietly. "Now, come, dinner is ready." "Let me finish my journal entries," Baris returned, his heart burdened with guilt. "Don't be long, else it'll have gone stone cold. Not that it matters much to you, since you seem to take your meals that way by preference." Baris managed a small smile at her gentle teasing. He was prone to spending far too much time at his books, and often made it to dinner late. He took her hand and kissed the back of it, then released her. "I won't be long," he promised, and bent to his books once again. He didn't hear her leave.

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Chapter 2 Adan woke many hours later, sprawled on his bed at the inn he had come to know as home these past few months. He sat up slowly, his head reeling, his stomach tightening into a hard knot of nausea and hunger. With a soft moan, he pushed to his feet, then gripped the bedpost to keep from toppling. It took a few moments for the dizziness to pass. When it did, Adan stumbled to the washbasin and splashed cold water on his face. The shock wakened him further, and he dried briskly. A soft tap sounded at the door. Adan waited quietly, knowing the inn's maid would leave his breakfast if he did not answer. When he was sure she was gone, he retrieved the tray, and set it on the sideboard. Tea washed the foul taste of the hack from his mouth and throat, and Adan sank into a chair, realizing he had again slept in his clothing. He took another long drink of tea, letting the hot liquid scorch his throat, then rose and went to the dirty window to peer into the crowded streets below. Just months ago he might have been one of the many merchants, craftsmen, or even farmers that strolled the dirt streets and dusty boardwalks. Working, struggling, slaving to make a modest means of support. A cynical smile crept over Adan's lean face. Well, no more. That life was behind him. Now, he simply took what he wanted. This room, this food, the clothing he wore – all were procured through his Vector magic, his ability to make others succumb to his will, to bend to his need. He straightened as a ruckus rose in the streets below. A small knot of men had just exited an alleyway, staggering under a load they carried. Once they were on the boardwalk, they stopped and lowered their wares to the ground, then stood back. Despite himself, Adan caught at his breath. The body of a young man lay on the weathered wood. His face was a ghastly white in the morning sunshine. His clothes were rumpled and dirty, and the men had to pry his death-rigid fingers from about his neck. It was then that Adan saw the blood staining the man's shirt collar and skin. He let the thin curtain fall back into place and backed away from the window. 12

It was the boy that he had accosted in the alleyway the previous night. Only, Adan hadn't killed him. He was sure of it. He had taken only as much blood as he needed, only enough to ease his cravings. He was sure that the boy had been alive when he'd left him. He was sure of it. He returned to his chair and sank down, ignoring the cries of disbelief and anguish that now sounded from outside. It wasn't his fault. It wasn't. Something else had killed the boy, someone else. Perhaps another drunk had overpowered him, someone looking for either money or hack. A whisper of a memory ran through Adan's mind. With trembling hand he searched his inner vest pocket, and drew out a small leather pouch. It was the boy's. He remembered that now. Remembered how he had taken it from the youth before leaving him sprawled on the ground. His fist tightened about the bag. It wasn't his fault. He couldn't be blamed for another's act of violence. He looked at his hand that was now shaking almost uncontrollably. Without another thought, he opened the pouch and shook several leaves of hack into his mouth. Then he sat back, closed his eyes, and let the drug erase his memories.

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Chapter 3 "He did what?" Baris could not keep his voice from rising in alarm. Darius turned to face him, one eyebrow raised in question. Baris swallowed hard and took a quick, deep breath of air. "I apologize, Sovereign," he said at once, lowering his voice. "It...it's just that, well, I expected him to wait." "Wait? For what? You made it clear that you didn't wish to get involved in this. In fact, I'm a little surprised to see you here at all. It's been three days since Jaeger visited you." Baris flushed. "I...I had to think it over. It wasn't something I could make a quick decision on. But I thought Jaeger would give me some time." Darius paused, then settled his lithe form into a hearthside chair. He looked up at Baris, who immediately sat down as well. "Jaeger did not wish to pressure you, Baris. The decision to accompany him had to be yours." "Did he go alone then?" Darius shook his head. "No, he took Vail with him." "Vail? Why him? He's not a Vector." "No, but he does know something of what you went through." Again, Baris felt a flush creep over his cheeks. Knew something? That was a decided understatement. If it hadn't been for Vail, Baris would most likely be dead by now. The young witch had nursed him back to health, had comforted him during the horrific struggle to purge the hack from his body, had been there to support Baris when he had finally been reunited with his wife and child. Yes, Vail knew something of his ordeal all right. Still, he was not a Vector, and even though the young witch carried Vector blood, the magic he had was pale by comparison to a true Vector. Baris wondered just how much help he would be to Jaeger. He guessed that one of the reasons Vail was going along was to supply Jaeger with a safe source of blood. Still, a knot began to form in

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the pit of Baris' stomach. "Why can't you just bring the Vector here? He could be helped here." Darius leaned back in his chair. "I cannot simply spirit away a man who does not wish to be spirited away, Baris. He has his own magic, remember. And he seems quite determined to use it against me." "But that's treason," Baris mumbled. Darius looked at him, startled, then laughed. "Were I a king, I guess that would be true. But I'm not. I am simply the overseer of the Lair. I will not rule the Vectors as Riden or Cardiss did. They were far too intrusive and punitive. A man's life has got to be his own, Baris. He must make his own decisions, make his own way. That goes for the Vectors as well as for the humans. Still, that does not mean we are a lawless society. We do have rules to follow. And when those rules are broken, as Adan as done, I must step in." Baris cringed, understanding the double meaning. He wished Darius had not mentioned the Vector's name. Putting a name to him made him real, not just a problem that Baris could ignore. Adan. He hadn't heard of the man before and he wondered how old he was, where he traveled, what his background was like, if he had others who cared about him as Vail and Rhiannon cared about Jaeger, as Anika cared about Baris. Darius rose, gathering his dark robe about him. "It's cold in here," he mumbled. "It's always cold in here. I need to see about getting some light and warmth into these old halls. How Cardiss could stand this I don't know." Baris glanced about the subterranean shelter. The rock walls had been smoothed from centuries of hands touching them. The domed ceiling arched high overhead giving the room a cavernous feeling, though it was quite small in size. Darius had padded the stone floor with thick coverings of various furs, but still the cold oozed from the rockery. Even the blazing fire in the hearth didn't seem able to curtail it. Baris wished the whole Lair could be moved, somewhere where daylight and sunshine could visit. But he knew that was impossible. Vectors were born in the dark, they

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lived in the dark for the first fifteen years of their life. It was only then that they ventured to the outside. He remembered his first venture there clearly. He had been terrified. Terrified that the light of day would forever blind him. That the gentle breezes would somehow steal his own breath. If not for his mentor, Cris, he would never have gone topside. It was Cris' gentle persuasion that had finally won Baris over. They had taken several days to slowly climb the long staircase to the top. It had been necessary to allow Baris' eyes to adjust to the light. But once there, what a sight. The Lair was located deep within a towering peak and, from the top, the view was incredible. More incredible than anything Baris had ever seen. He had stood for long moments staring, absorbing every piece of land that was revealed to him as the sun rose. It was the most spectacular thing he had ever witnessed, and he had actually not wanted to return to the bowels of the earth and his former home. He wondered how long Adan had been topside, how old he was. He wondered if Adan could still see the beauty in the lands around him, or if his only world was now the one created by the hack. With a sigh, Baris approached Darius, who stood at the sideboard, waiting for his tea to brew. "I'll find Jaeger," Baris said quietly. "I'll help him." Darius glanced over at him as if he had expected the words. "I can send you to him." "No. I...I need to say my goodbyes to Anika and Thale. And to make arrangements to have her bled while I am gone. Did...did you know that Anika was again with child? Due soon as a matter of fact." Darius' eyebrows rose in surprise. "No, I didn't. Congratulations." Baris smiled, though he had sensed just a touch of regret in the Sovereign's words. He knew Darius was glad that the Vectors were producing offspring of their own desires, yet at the same time, there were precious few who were now offering their seed to the creation of pure Vectors in the Lair. Baris also knew that Darius could once again order them to do so. Baris hoped he wouldn't. Baris hadn't known his mother. He knew only that his father had been Sovereign Cardiss; but then 16

Cardiss was the father of all pure Vectors. Cardiss had followed the Vector way for centuries – impregnating a Vector woman, then passing the embryo off to a surrogate human mother to be grown. Baris had never known his surrogate – she had been killed just moments after his birth, as was custom. It was a custom Baris had grown up with, been schooled on, yet it still left a print of disgust in his mind. In some ways he thought Jaeger was lucky. Jaeger's parents had loved each other. Though his father had been a Vector, his mother had been a human, impregnated against Cardiss' will. That both parents had spent their entire married life running in fear of retribution didn't matter to Baris. He still thought that even those few years Jaeger had in a loving, two-parent home, was worth the fear and uncertainty. Still, to see both of your parents killed was not something Baris wished to discover first hand. He had never known which male Vector Chosen had carried him as an embryo – that was closely guarded information in the Lair. And he had never known who his Vector mother was, the donor of the egg. In some ways it left him adrift. If it hadn't been for the mentorship of first Cris, then Jaeger, he would have felt entirely alone. And now, Jaeger needed his help. Baris would give it. He tipped his head at Darius. "I take my leave now, Sovereign. Just tell me which city Jaeger has gone to and I will leave this eve." "He is in Erster." Baris caught at his breath. Erster. The very village where he, himself, had nearly died. Cold memories washed over him, set him to trembling. He barely controlled the tremor in his voice. "Very well, Sovereign. I will go there as soon as I see my family." He hesitated a moment wondering if he should mention his implant, how it might interfere with helping Jaeger, then decided against it. This was his crutch to bear and he would not seek early release from his punishment. He tipped his head again, and used his Vector magic to Spell himself home. At least that much magic had been left to him. Morning had arrived while he was in the Lair, and the sunshine sneaked through the shutters, warming the room. Anika was huddled on the settee and looked up with a startled gasp at his sudden appearance in the common room. Baris knew at once 17

that something was wrong. She was pale, sweating, her face twisted with pain. Baris knelt at her side, taking her hand. She forced a smile to her face. "It's the child, Baris. He doesn't want to wait any longer." "Oh," was all Baris could manage. He picked Anika up in his arms and carried her into the bedroom. Thale was asleep on the wide bed, his thumb tucked securely in his mouth. He did little more than grunt, and turned to his other side as Baris laid Anika beside him. "I'll get the midwife," he said quietly. Anika nodded. "And have Trina come as well. She can..." She paused to let a pain pass. "She can entertain Thale." Baris nodded and strode from the room. His stomach had been knotted up before, but now he felt as if he might be sick. It was too soon. The baby should not arrive for another month at least. Baris shook aside the worrisome thoughts and hurried to the mid-wife's cottage. She answered his insistent knock at once. "It's Anika," he said, breathless from his jaunt across the village. "Please, come at once." The woman said nothing, but disappeared into the hut for her bag, and pushed past Baris on her way to his cottage. Baris took a deep breath and turned towards Trina's cottage. Trina was already in the yard, tending to her garden, while keeping a watchful eye on her own three-year-old. He was grateful he would not have to wait while she woke, dressed and fed her child. She rose at Baris' approach. "Baris! What brings you here?" "Anika, she...it's...she would like you to sit with Thale," Baris stammered. "The baby is..." Dread stopped his words. Trina's eyes went wide, and she wiped her dirty hands on her skirt. "Come, Aron," she said to her son. "Thale needs a playmate for a while." The little boy let out a whoop of pleasure and grasped his mother's hand. Baris turned and hurried back to his cottage, Trina and Aron trailing. The midwife had already wakened Thale and told him of Aron's coming. Thale met the little boy on the

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steps outside the cottage, no traces of sleep lingering in his dark eyes, although he was still wearing his sleeping clothes. "Aron!" he cried. "Look! I found a bug!" The other boy laughed, and ran to meet his friend. Both boys immediately took to the grass, in pursuit of a large, black beetle that was making hasty tracks away from the squealing toddlers. Trina smiled and motioned Baris away. He needed no urging, and hurried into the house. He was jolted by a shriek of pain from Anika. Alarm gripped his gut and he started toward the bedroom, only to be stopped by another cry from his wife. He drew a deep shaky breath. He wanted to be with her, but his own fear was stopping him. He had watched her give birth to Thale, and the memory of her birthing pains stayed with him yet. He had thought he would lose her then, thought so now. He took another step toward the bedroom. Then another, each making his heart pound harder, and his breath come faster. His head began to reel and he held to the wall to keep from toppling. This is ridiculous, he told himself. I'm not a child. I should be able to handle this, to be able to help my own wife when she needs me most. He cringed at yet another cry, his mind swirling. How could this be happening so fast? He had barely left her to fetch the midwife, and Anika had seemed in little pain then. How could she have progressed so quickly? Something was wrong. That had to be the answer. Something was wrong with either the baby or Anika. The despair in that possibility sent Baris hurrying into the room. He was just in time to see the midwife wrap the infant in a cloth. His mouth gaped, and his gaze flew to Anika, who lay upon the bed, pale and shivering. His gaze went back to the child. "It's not crying," Baris whispered. "Why is it not crying?" "Give her a moment," the midwife said, then turned the baby over and clapped it soundly on the back. The baby gagged, coughed, then let out a small, feeble cry, no louder than a kitten's mewl. The midwife clapped her again, then turned her over and gently

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cleaned out the tiny mouth and nose. The baby took another shuddering breath, and squirmed weakly. "She's a good bit early," the midwife said quietly. "Don't know that she'll make it." "Let me hold her," Anika said. "Please. Let me hold her." The midwife stood and moved beside Anika, fairly shoving Baris aside. He was well aware of her dislike for his kind, but for Anika's sake, he kept his barbed comments to himself. He watched her place the infant into Anika's reaching arms, and waited for her to move aside. She did so almost grudgingly. At once Baris knelt beside the bed, peering at the tiny little girl. "She's beautiful," Anika whispered. Baris took a deep breath, staring at the pale skin, the dark hair still plastered to the tiny head with birth fluids. He reached out a tentative hand and gently stroked the infant's cheek. She had stopped moving and lay still and quiet in her mother's arms. For a brief moment, Baris thought she had stopped breathing. Then he saw her small chest rise and fall. Relief surged through him, but it was relief short lived. The midwife looked over his shoulder and grunted. "It'll be a miracle, Anika, if the babe survives. She's too small, too weak. Best prepare yourself." Tears gathered in Anika's eyes, and tumbled down her cheeks. "No, Adress, you're wrong. You have to be. She's small, but so perfect. Look at her." The midwife shook her head and turned away to finish her work. Baris shot her a chastising glance, then looked back at Anika and the baby. "What shall we name her, Ani?" "Aysha," Anika murmured, her voice heavy with fatigue. "It means life. She will live, Baris. She will." "Yes, she will," Baris said softly. "You sleep, Ani. Let me hold her for a bit. Please?" Anika nodded, her eyes already half closed. Baris picked up the fragile bundle and held his daughter close. He knew what she needed, but he wasn't about to do

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anything in front of Adress. "Are you done here?" he asked the midwife, hoping his tone wasn't too brusque. She glared at him, and finished tending Anika. "I am. I'll leave you both to your heathen rituals and dark ways." She gathered up her supplies. "I'll check back on Anika later this eve. I'll bring the priest. If the child is still alive, he'll be here for a blessing. If not, he'll be here for rites." Baris clenched his jaw, again keeping his words of anger to himself. He followed her to the door, where Trina looked up from where she sat on the porch. Adress hurried past her without a word. Trina rose, alarm in her eyes at the sight of the tiny baby. "Oh, by the saints," she murmured. "Is the child..." "The child lives," Baris said, forcing conviction into his words. "Her name is Aysha." "Let me see!" Thale cried, rushing over, Aron following. Baris smiled and hunkered down to his son's level. The little boy let out a small gasp, and touched at Aysha's pale face with one finger. Then, without a word, he leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on the newborn's cheek. Baris' eyes filled with tears and he straightened. "Please, excuse me a moment, Trina. I told Anika I would be right back. Thale, wait here. I will fetch you in a few minutes." Thale and Trina nodded in unison, and Baris hurried back into the bedroom, closing the door behind him. He sat down on the edge of the bed, tucking Aysha in beside Anika. For a long moment he studied the infant, torn by what he must do. Then, with a quick movement, he bit into his own wrist. He let the blood flow freely for a moment, then took but one drop on his fingertip. Without a pause, he then turned to Anika, biting quickly and efficiently into her wrist, not even waking her. Her blood flowed warm and sweet. Again, he took but a drop and placed it atop his on his fingertip. Gently, he offered the mixed blood to Aysha. The infant pursed her lips, then began to suckle. He watched as her color changed, going from a deathly, pasty white to a creamy, rose-cheeked complexion. She squirmed in her bindings, as if begging to be let free, 21

and Baris obliged, loosening them a bit. Aysha opened one eye and peered upward, though she seemed not able to focus on him. Still, he smiled at this tiny treasure. His daughter. *** Adress returned later that evening as promised. The priest was with her, and judging from the look on his face, he seemed prepared to give last rites to the infant. His eyes went wide when he saw Aysha suckling at Anika's breast. "Adress," he murmured, "I thought you said the babe was all but stillborn." The mid-wife grunted, her eyes narrowing in distaste. "She should have been, but who knows what to make of a Vector child." She moved closer to the bed, and peered at the child. After a moment, she addressed Anika. "Might I examine her further?" Anika relinquished the child, though it was all Baris could do to keep from snatching his daughter away from Adress. He watched as the woman took the child nearer the window to study her. After a moment, Adress picked up the lamp and waved it before the child's face. Baris stiffened, ready to rescue Aysha at a second's notice, although from what he couldn't say. Finally, Adress looked over at Anika with pursed lips. Her tone was somewhat smug when she spoke. "The child is blind." Anika gasped, and her gaze flew to meet Baris'. For a second, he was speechless, then he strode to Adress and took Aysha from her. He cradled the tiny infant to his breast. "How do you know? She's but hours old. She can't be expected to focus on anything yet." "She is blind," Adress repeated. Anika let out a soft sob and reached for her daughter. Baris hesitated, then placed Aysha into Anika's arms. "It doesn't matter," he said tightly. "Even if she is, she is still our daughter and she is still beautiful." Adress grunted again. "A blind woman has no life. You'd better be prepared to safekeep her for the rest of her life." Anger rose in Baris. "I was prepared to safekeep her the moment she was conceived." He looked at the priest. "You may give the blessings now." 22

The priest nodded and opened his bag. From this, he took a white shawl and a small vial of water. He placed the shawl about his shoulders, and approached the child. Baris frowned, touching his arm. "What is that?" he asked pointing to the vial. "It is sacred water," the priest returned. "Taken from the ash grove and blessed at the altar." "And you will do what with it?" "Put but a drop on the child's forehead as a sign of blessing from the eternal one." "You didn't do that with Thale," Baris pointed out. "You merely spoke the blessing. Why must you use this water?" "See?" Adress spat. "I told you he would not allow sacred water to touch his child." Baris ignored her, waiting for an answer from the priest. The old man sighed. "Women must be blessed with the sacred water to insure their fertility and obedience to men." "Obedience?" Baris echoed in disbelief. "My daughter will obey no man as though she were a piece of property. I will not allow her to be sold into slavery. You may give your blessing in word only, just as you did with Thale. No water." The priest cast a swift glance at Adress, then at Anika. "This is as much your child as it is his." Anika hesitated, clearly unsure what to do. She looked down at Aysha, whose small face was tilted upward, eyes open, as if studying her, waiting for her answer. Anika drew a deep breath. "Words only, your Holiness." Adress let out a snort of disapproval. "You have condemned her to a life of solitude, Anika. So be it." She turned and stormed from the room. Baris clenched his jaw, and motioned at the priest to continue. The blessing took but a moment, spoken in a voice so low that Baris could not tell what words were said. When it was done, the priest quickly removed his shawl, dropped the vial back into his bag and took his leave. Baris was glad to see him go. He shut and bolted the door, then went to check on Thale.

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The little boy slept soundly, exhausted from his day of play with Aron. He had spent the evening ooohing and ahhing over Aysha, touching her gently and kissing her tenderly on the forehead. He had insisted that her second name be Illorie. Baris wondered where he had come up with that, but Anika had thought it was beautiful and accepted it. Baris bent and kissed his small son, then snugged the blankets about him. He had not thought he could love another child as much as he loved Thale. Yet, a spot had been carved out in his heart for Aysha the moment he had seen her. He smiled and returned to his room, where Anika lay, studying Aysha thoughtfully. "Are you upset with me?" Baris asked softly. "About the water and the blessing." Anika looked up at him. "No. I am upset with myself. You're right, Baris. I don't know why I never thought about the difference between the blessings before. It is a kind of slavery isn't it? I'm glad that Aysha will grow up independent, able to make her own choices. She will not be subservient to anyone." She hesitated, looking again at the babe. "Baris, do you think Adress was right? Do you really think Aysha is blind?" "No," Baris answered at once. "Why would she be? You were very careful of any herbs you took while carrying her. You ate properly and got sufficient rest. What could have caused anything such as blindness?" Anika was silent for a long moment, then she forced a smile to her face. "You're right, Baris. There was nothing. She'll be fine. I know it." But, despite his words, Baris wasn't so sure. Guilt raced through him, though he tried desperately to ignore it. He couldn't bring himself to tell Anika that the first liquid Aysha had taken was blood. He prayed that it had only been enough to save her life, not convert her. But he didn't know. Nor did he know why she had been pronounced blind, but he had a suspicion. A suspicion that sent cold chills through him. He covered Anika with the blankets. "Do you want me to put Aysha in the cradle?" "No. I want to hold her tonight. I want to feel her warmth next to me." She smiled up at him. "And yours as well." 24

He couldn't help but smile. He sat down on the edge of the bed. "I told Darius I would go for Jaeger tonight. I need to return to the Lair and tell him that I cannot." "Why not?" "Oh, Ani, please! I can't leave you now. You know that." "But Jaeger needs you, Baris." "You need me more. He has Vail to help him. Perhaps even Baul will follow." It was a hopeful guess on Baris' part. Darius had made no mention of Vail's Vector friend following him. "I don't want Jaeger to do this alone, Baris." "I know, Ani. Neither do I. But he is not alone. You sleep now. You need your rest." He reached over to stroke her forehead, tossing in just a bit of his own magic to make her sleep. When he was quite sure she was asleep, he lifted Aysha from her arms, held the child gently against his chest, and cast a spell to take him to the Lair. He went straight to Darius' chambers. Two attendants stopped him in the corridor. "I need to speak to the Sovereign," Baris said quietly, his voice echoing dully in the dark tunnels. "It's urgent." "And this is about what?" one of the men asked, though his gaze drifted to Aysha. "My daughter." "The Sovereign is supping with his consort," the attendant told Baris. "It may be a wait to see him." Baris sagged, looking down at Aysha, who slept contentedly in his arms. He looked back at the attendant. "Tell him that I've come about Jaeger." "I would lie to the Sovereign?" the attendant asked with a guffaw. The sudden sound startled Aysha. She grimaced, then let out a soft wail. Her eyes opened fully, and for the first time, she looked straight up at Baris. He gasped, sure that she could see him. Still... "It's not a lie," he told the attendant. "This is about Jaeger. My daughter is involved. Please."

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The two attendants exchanged glances and soft words, then the one who had spoken, nodded. "I will be back shortly." He turned and disappeared into the shadows. Baris looked again at Aysha. He moved one finger before her face and watched in surprise as she attempted to track it. Relief surged through him, and he chastised himself for listening to Adress. Aysha wasn't blind. "Baris?" The attendant returned. "The Sovereign will see you now. But if you have lied about your purpose, you will answer for it." Baris took the warning to heart, and followed the attendant into Darius' chambers. The Sovereign was seated on a plush settee, wine glass in hand, a beautiful woman beside him. A woman Baris knew. A woman he both loved and hated with an equal passion. She smiled up at him, obviously sensing his discomfort. "Baris, good to see you again. How long has it been?" He wasn't sure what to say – long enough or too long. He refused an answer to her question. "Deirdre, you're looking well." She took a sip from her wine and eyed him, a small seductive smile on her lips. Just the memory of those lips on his sent his heart racing. As always, his body began to react to her presence of its own accord. And, as always, he scowled at his own weaknesses. She had seduced him, driven Anika away from him, endangered his child and his wife, dragged him through his own personal hell. Still, he could not resist her. Whatever magic she had once worked on him was still a powerful magnet, drawing them together. If not for the fact that she now belonged to Darius, she could easily have seduced Baris yet again. The thought was disconcerting to say the least. She rose and approached him slowly, her gaze on Aysha. "Ah, Anika's child. A girl, the guards say. Not much younger than our child, Baris." Baris caught at his breath. Their child. Yes, his and Deirdre's. Another result of her seduction. The thought that he was father to a child he had never even seen sent guilt to torture him yet again.

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"Enough, Deirdre," Darius interrupted, his voice firm. "Go to your room. Baris and I have business to discuss." Deirdre hesitated, gave Baris one last smile, then left. It pained Baris to see the normally fiercely independent woman controlled so. But he also knew that with her strong magic, it was the only way to keep her from doing harm to others. Darius had taken her on as his own personal challenge. So far, he had been able to subdue her, keep her in line. Baris wondered if he would always be able to do so. "So?" Darius asked. "What is this news of Jaeger that you claim to have? And what does it have to do with your daughter?" Baris looked down at Aysha, almost forgetting he held her. "I need your help, Sovereign. The midwife tells me that Aysha is blind, yet I cannot find it in my heart to believe so." "And this involves Jaeger how?" Darius asked, though he rose. "Please, look at my daughter, then I will explain." Baris held out the infant, who was busy studying the flickering torchlight in the room. Darius took her, looking directly into her gray eyes. For a moment, he said nothing, then he brought his gaze up to meet Baris'. "The child has had blood." It was a statement not a question. Baris sagged. "Yes," he whispered. "She...she would have died otherwise." He knew the implication of the Sovereign's statement, didn't miss the look of contentment in Darius' eyes. Another Vector had been born. A halfling, true, but with Vector blood racing through her veins. Baris took a deep breath. "Her eyes?" "Yes," Darius said softly, "she is blind." The words seared through Baris' heart, left his legs trembling. "But she is looking at you, at the lights..." Darius nodded. "She is using her Vector senses here in the Lair. Outside of these walls, she will see nothing." Baris found a chair to collapse into. "It's my fault." "Your fault? How so?" Darius returned Aysha to Baris' arms.

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"It was the hack. I was still taking it, weaning myself from it, when Anika conceived. It's my fault." "Ah." Darius sat down as well. "You may be right." It wasn't what Baris had wanted to hear. Somehow he had wanted Darius to dispute it, to tell him it was nonsense, that his addiction to hack had nothing to do with Aysha's blindness. But in his heart, he knew it did. He had done this to his daughter, his precious child. Tears stung his eyes as he gazed down at the beautiful, tiny face. "I will go help Jaeger," he said softly. "No man should have to bear this guilt." He rose shakily. "I will return Aysha to her mother, but I have a humble request, Darius." "Speak it." "Anika will need to be bled while I am gone. I trust few in her village. Is there someone you can recommend from here?" Darius smiled. "Perhaps Jaden?" Baris flinched but nodded. Jaden was young, attractive, and attentive. Baris just hoped not too attentive. "Very well. Could you send him straight away? Then I will go to Erster and find Jaeger." Darius tipped his head in agreement. "Oh, one thing." He came closer again, his gaze on Aysha. He paused a moment, then bit into his own wrist, drawing blood. He placed one small droplet into each of her eyes. Baris frowned. "What is that for?" "It will allow her to see in darkness, even outside of the Lair, though in light she will still be blind. It is all I can grant her." Baris stared at the man in awe and gratitude. "Thank you, Darius. Thank you for this small gift." He bowed and stepped into the corridor to cast his spell home.

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Chapter 4 Adan narrowed his eyes, staring into the darkness beyond the alley, then once more began his slow, methodical pacing. To the moldy, wooden wall of the drinkery, turn, back to the cold stone of the inn, and turn again. Though his senses were on the alert for footsteps approaching, he was more than a little distracted. There was another Vector in the city. Where or who, he didn't know. He was fairly secure in his remaining Vector powers to believe it wasn't Darius. He had to believe that. He stopped his pacing for a moment, grimacing. He supposed he was being paranoid. After all, why would Darius be interested in him? He was no one special in the tight hierarchy of the Vector system. He was an unknown. As far as he knew, so were his parents. He began to pace again, hands clasped behind his back in a tight fist. So why was another Vector here? To his way of thinking, Erster was hardly on the main path to anywhere. That was one of the reasons Adan had chosen it. That, and the steady supply of hack. No, this little town seemed to be the end of a road, not the beginning. At least, for him. Footsteps sounded at the far end of the alley, and Adan lifted his gaze. Even in the darkness he could see quite clearly. A young couple, so drunk they could barely support each other, stumbled toward him, no doubt intent on using the alley as a lover's retreat. The thought disgusted Adan. Who knew what filth and animal excrement the two lovers would wallow in trying to quench their sexual thirst. With a quiet oath, he moved aside, blending into the shadows, letting the young pair stumble past him. For just a moment, he was aware of their scent. His hunger was strong tonight, driven by his anxiety and restlessness. He supposed he could make a meal out of one, if not both, of the lovers, yet he resisted. No, what he wanted was not just blood, but the special blood of those hack-addicted youth who wandered the foul streets. So, he let the lovers pass, and slipped to the end of the alley to peer into the streets.

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Feeble light streamed from nearby windows, casting dirty yellow patterns on the boardwalks. Strains of badly played music wafted from half open doors, adding to the almost surrealistic atmosphere of Erster. Adan scowled into the night, reaching out with his Vector magic in the hopes of securing a victim. When no one was readily apparent, he pulled his cloak tight, and strode across the street. He was beginning to shake. He had long since ingested the hack leaves he had taken from the dead boy three nights past. He needed more, and knew just where to go. The risk was great, not just from the scum that scuttled in the black buildings slowly crumpling with age, but also from the law that tried to keep a close watch. Adan reached the tavern district quickly, and again reached out with his Vector senses. His magic collided with another Vector doing the same thing. Startled, Adan withdrew, quickly forming a tight shield about himself. His heart pounded, his breath caught in a throat gone dry. He had been found, but by whom, and why? Without another moment's hesitation, he whirled and hurried back the way he had come. He reached his room out of breath, and shaking like a tree in a windstorm. His gut ached mercilessly, and a cold sweat dampened his whole body. He tore off his cloak and flung it toward the bed, missing. Rage stormed through him. He strode to the window and peered out into the streets below. There was no more movement other than the usual assortment of citizens ambling from one place to another. Adan bit at his lip. He needed to move, find another inn to stay in. Someplace nicer, further away from the seedier area of town. It was obvious that this other Vector assumed Adan would be in the tavern district. Probably all that had saved Adan from being discovered already was the fact that he had chosen to stay at an inn between the grimy tavern area, and the well-lit and immaculate business district. He spun from the window, pulled his valise from beneath the bed and hurriedly packed his few belongings. He would leave now, before the other Vector got any closer. And then what? He paused, unsure of his eventual goal. He supposed he would have to leave Erster, find another place to call home. The thought irked him. He had carved out a nice little niche here in Erster. The hack was plentiful and easy to find. He didn't relish the thought of having to start over in another city. And he 30

wouldn't. He would not allow a rogue Vector to force him out of his home. With a scowl, he picked up his bag, and left the room. He didn't bother stopping at the desk to pay. There was no need. The proprietor was under his spell anyway. And the less he knew, the better. If someone did come asking for Adan, the proprietor would have no information to give. Adan moved briskly along the boardwalks toward the business district. He had seen a huge, nicely appointed inn there in one of his earlier wanderings. That was where he would go. True, it would be a long walk to the tavern district every night in search of his supply of hack, but it had to be done. And Adan wasn't even sure if he should risk returning to the tavern district at all. His scowl deepened as he wondered where he would get his supply of hack now. And how he would pay for a room at this exquisite inn. He had no money, and didn't dare use enough Vector magic to hypnotize the proprietor. Whoever stalked him was sure to be on the alert for a continual use of Vector magic. No, Adan would have to figure out some other way to gain entry and procure a room. He glanced about the busy streets, then slipped into the darkness of the alley that led to the back of the establishment. Several valets were huddled outside the kitchen door, chatting, on a break from their work. Adan watched them through narrowed eyes as an idea formed. Quickly, he turned and stole back to the other end of the alley to watch the front of the inn. Minutes turned to hours, and the cold began to seep into his bones, chilling him through, increasing the trembling from his need for the drug. He began to resign himself to finding a place in the nearest horse stall, when a carriage suddenly appeared at the far end of the street. It rumbled noisily up to the inn, and Adan sprang into action. Leaving his valise in the shadows, he altered his appearance, and met the carriage even before it stopped moving. The driver glanced down at him. "Just the top two bags, boy." Adan nodded and swept the two handsomely stitched bags from the top of the coach. He was up the inn's steps and at the desk before the occupants of the carriage had even disembarked. The proprietor met him. "May I help you?" 31

"Yes, please. The largest room you have, please, adjoining rooms. M'Lord will be along immediately," Adan said, keeping his tone low and subservient, then scuttled back out the door to wait. The portly gentleman who had climbed from the carriage took a moment to wheeze with the exertion. Adan again moved forward and offered his arm to the man's equally portly wife. She accepted with a terse nod of her perfectly coiffed head. Adan led her up the stairs and into the lobby, her husband following. Adan quickly shrank back into the shadows, as the man signed in on the register. The proprietor smiled warmly, no doubt thinking of the money that would soon be his as he handed keys forth. Adan held his breath, praying that prices were not discussed at this late hour. He was rewarded as the proprietor rang for a bellboy. Adan again sprang into action, snatching up the bags and leading the way up the heavily carpeted stairway. He was counting on the gentleman believing he was a servant of the inn, just as he was counting on the proprietor believing he was a servant of the portly guest. It worked like a charm, and Adan soon found himself opening the door of the large, and opulent, room. The gentleman thanked him with a generous tip. Adan smiled, bowed, and backed away. He waited until he heard the door click closed, heard the key turn in the lock, before he sidled up to the door of the adjoining room. Silently, he let himself in. It was every bit as luxurious as the one next door, and Adan took a moment to make sure the door that connected the two rooms was securely locked. The portly gentleman would not know until he checked out that he had paid for two rooms. And Adan was counting on his wealth to have him assume the hefty price was due only to the room's appointment.

Still, Adan knew he was on borrowed time. He had no idea

how long the gentleman intended to stay in this little town. Adan would have to come up with either some money or some other way to assure his place at the inn, without using Vector magic. But for tonight, for now, he had a huge, soft bed to sleep in, enough fuel for a roaring fire, and free liquor waiting on the sideboard. Now, if only he had some hack. 32

Chapter 5 Baris paced the small confines of his living quarters, hands twisted behind his back. Sometime during the night Anika had taken a fever, and now lay pale and listless on the bed. Baris had summoned the village healer, though he harbored doubts as to what the old woman could do. With each passing hour, Anika seemed to be getting worse rather than better. And there was little Baris could do to help. At least from here. He looked up as the healer exited the bedroom. The old woman looked haggard and tired as she closed her small bag of potions. She regarded Baris through watery blue eyes. "I'm afraid there is nothing else I can do. She is dying of the fever." Baris' breath caught in his throat as his heart thudded in pain. He sank onto the nearest chair, shaking his head in denial. "No," he whispered. "No, she can't be. She can't die. There must be something else you can do. Something someone else can do. Please?" The old woman sighed, and patted his shoulder before turning toward the door. "I would suggest you keep both Thale and the baby away from her. What she has may be catching. I just don't know." Without another word, she left Baris alone. He sat for many long moments, before another moan from Anika brought him to his feet. He stumbled into her room, collapsing in the chair by the bed. His wife was almost as white as the bedclothes, her face covered with a sheen of sweat. Her eyes were circled in black, and half lidded as she looked over at him. She reached out a trembling hand, and he took it, pressing his mouth to her cold flesh. Tears stung his eyes. "Can I get you anything, Anika?" he asked softly. "My daughter, Baris," she murmured. "I wish to hold her. Please." Baris thought back on the healer's words, then rose and fetched Aysha from her cradle. She was asleep and let out a soft mew at being disturbed. Baris hesitated only a moment before settling the infant in next to his wife. "She is so incredibly beautiful, isn't she?" Anika breathed. 33

"She takes after her mother," Baris replied. Anika smiled, twisting one lock of the infant's hair about her finger. "You'll look after her, won't you?" The words sent a chill racing through Baris. "What do you mean? We'll look after her together, Anika. Just as we'll look after Thale and many more children to come." Anika sighed. "The healer told me I was not long for this world, Baris." Anger snuffed out Baris' upset. "She is wrong, Anika. You have many more long years. You will live to see our children's children, and perhaps even their children as well." "It is enough to have seen Thale and Aysha," Anika said quietly. She brought her gaze up to meet his. "And to have loved you, Baris." The tears that Baris had controlled sprang forth, and he lowered his head. "You will not die, Anika," he said again, his voice brusque with emotion. He surged to his feet. "Where are you going?" Anika asked. "To fetch Thale." Baris did not expand on the comment, but hurried from the bedroom toward Thale's room. He snatched up his cloak on the way, tossing it about his shoulders. Thale was supposed to be napping, but Baris found him sitting on the floor playing. He looked up at Baris, a small gasp of alarm escaping him. "I'm asleep!" he cried, and made a mad dash for his little bed. Baris couldn't help but smile, as he intercepted the boy. "That's all right, Thale." He lifted Thale into his arms, smelling of the sweet scent of childhood. "How would you like to go on a trip with me and mama?" "And Aysha?" Thale asked at once, wrapping his small arms about Baris' neck. Baris nodded. "Of course. And Aysha." Thale surprised Baris with his next words. "Will this trip make mama better?" Baris had not known to what extent the boy understood Anika's illness, but he was continually surprised by Thale's perceptions. "Hopefully, yes, it will. The healers here do not know how to help mama. My people do." 34

"We're going to the Lair?" Thale asked in amazement. Again, Baris was surprised. "And what do you know of the Lair?" "Nothing. I don't remember last time I was there. I want to see it." Baris smiled at him, though his heart twisted with sadness. He had not wanted to take Thale into the Lair again. Yet, it was his heritage as well. "Then you shall, Thale. Here, grab your blanket." He wrapped Thale in the blanket, and hurried back to Anika. She lay still, unmoving, and for a moment, Baris' heart caught. Not wanting to frighten Thale, he sat the little boy down, then went slowly to the bed. Anika did not move. Baris sat down and reached for her hand. "Ani?" he whispered. Still, she was quiet. Baris' concern quickly turned to panic, and he reached to shake his wife, nearly rolling Aysha to the floor in his haste. The infant let out a soft wail. Even that did not rouse Anika. Terror flooded through Baris, and he swiftly swept Aysha up in one strong arm. "Thale! Come here, at once!" he ordered. Startled, the little boy scampered to his side, eyes wide, face pale. His gaze swept over Anika and he began to cry. "What's wrong with mama?" "Grab hold of my arm, Thale," Baris said. "Hold tight, and don't let go." He wrapped his free arm about Anika's limp form, and when he was sure that Thale had a good hold, Baris threw his magic, taking all four of them to the Lair. They were met with darkness that brought a shriek of terror from Thale. The sound echoed back, ringing shrilly in Baris' ears. He hunkered down beside the boy, struggling to keep his grip on both his wife and his daughter, while trying to calm Thale's fears. "Hush, Thale," he murmured. "It's all right. This is your papa's home, remember? You were here before." A pounding of feet mixed with Thale's cries, and four armed guards burst from the darkness. Thale's screams intensified, and the little boy grabbed for Baris, striking Aysha on the face in the process. The infant's wails of pain added to the confusion.

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"Stop!" Baris turned on the guards in fury, born of fear. "You're frightening my children!" He placed Anika gently on the hard ground, and bounced Aysha, trying to soothe her. "Who are you?" one of the guards demanded, leveling his weapon at Baris. He waved the sword at Anika, who lay pale and unconscious on the hard stone floor. "What do you mean by bringing a human into the Lair unannounced?" "Please," Baris replied. "She is my wife. She is ill. I need help." "Human's are not allowed in the Lair except by the Sovereign's invitation," another guard snapped. "How, and why, do you expect us to help her?" another guard demanded. "She is my wife," Baris said again. "I request help." "She is human. Help is denied." Rage boiled through Baris. "She is the mother of a Vector! My daughter claims her heritage here! Darius himself has given her his blessing. Will you dare to garner his disapproval?" The guards hesitated a moment, then one of the motioned Baris forward. "You will be answering to him for this. Move on!" "I need help," Baris said, raising his voice over Thale's cries. "I cannot carry all three of them." "You brought them here," the guard retorted. "You deal with them." "Perhaps I can help," Deirdre purred, slipping from the darkness. Baris thought he saw a shadow of another Vector move away from her, but with all that was going on about him, he quickly dismissed it. The guards immediately fell to one knee, heads bowed in reverence to the Sovereign's mate. Her dark gaze locked on Baris' for a moment, then went to Anika. "She appears to be dead." "No!" Thale shrieked and threw himself atop Anika, sobbing hysterically. "Mama! Wake up! Wake up!" Baris glared at Deirdre wondering how it was she happened to be here in the same place as he. "She is not dead. She is ill. She needs help."

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"Here?" Deirdre asked. "In the Lair? This is not a place of help, Baris. It's a place of imprisonment. Or have you forgotten that?" Baris' heart went out to the woman standing before him. It was his fault that she was here, in the place she saw as nothing more than a prison. He looked deep into her eyes, felt again that pull she had over him. He had loved her once, perhaps loved her still. "She's of your kind. Can you help her, Deirdre?" he whispered. Deirdre hesitated a moment, then knelt beside Anika. She gave the unconscious woman a quick examination, then looked back up at Baris. "I can help her," she replied. "For a price, Baris. Are you willing to meet that price?" Baris shot a glance at the four guards. "What price is that?" Deirdre rose, and addressed the guards. "Leave us at once!" They hesitated as if unsure of the command. "I said, at once, or the Sovereign will hear of your insubordination!" The guards rose as one, and quickly backed away into the gloom. Deirdre pressed close against Baris. "My freedom, Baris. Take me out of here." Baris started. "I...I don't know if I can..." "Then she dies," Deirdre interrupted, and stepped away. Baris' looked at Anika, then back at Deirdre. "Deirdre, please, I cannot make such a promise. I –" "So be it." Deirdre turned toward the dark tunnels. "But you know that no vector here will help a human, if she can even be helped at this point." "Wait!" Baris gripped her arm with his free hand. She looked back at him, her face tilted up, her heavy, brown locks falling gracefully over slender shoulders. Her eyes were sultry, pulling Baris once again into their depths. His body stirred with memories of holding her close, making love to her. He swallowed hard, trying to remind himself of his purpose. But at that moment, as he sank into her power, he could have forgotten Anika, his children, himself. It was Thale's whimpering that broke her hold over him. He looked down at the little boy, who clung to Anika in despair.

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"I need your help, Deirdre," Baris whispered. "I will do what I can to pay your price. I promise." Deirdre hesitated, the nodded. "Follow me then." "If you will carry my daughter, I will take Anika and Thale." He handed her Aysha, who had calmed and was now appraising Deirdre with interest. Deirdre studied the infant for a long moment, then without lifting her gaze, spoke. "We have a son, Baris." "Son?" Baris whispered. He had not known the child's sex. "We have a son?" "Yes, Baris. And a fine son he is. Proud and strong. Much like you. Do you want to know his name?" Baris hesitated. He yearned to see the boy, to know all about him, to hold him, talk to him, be his father. Yet, at the same time, the child's very existence threw Baris back to a world he wished he had never entered. Guilt poured through him as he bent and picked Anika up from the floor. He cradled his wife gently, feeling again his intense love for the woman in his arms. Slowly, his gaze met Deirdre's, and he could not contain a soft sigh of emotion. He loved her as well. "Yes," he murmured, "yes, I do." "It's Sirab," she purred, moving closer to him. "Sirab?" he echoed, frowning. "What does it mean?" Deirdre smiled. "Why it's your name, Baris. Only reversed. I thought it was fitting. After all, you sired him, but you don't know him." Baris flushed, and started away. "We'd best go before Darius shows up wondering where you are." Deirdre fell into step beside him, ushering Thale before her. "Oh, he won't come looking for a long while. I told him I was going to my room to bathe and prepare myself for him later. He'll wait. He always does." Baris again felt the sting of his past. He glanced sideways at Deirdre. "Do you care for him?" "Do I have a choice?"

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Baris had no answer, and they walked the dark hallways in silence. Finally, Deirdre stopped before an opening covered with heavy cloth. "Wait here," she said. "I'll prepare a place for Anika and Thale." "No," Baris said again, and this time his voice was low and hard. "First, you'll heal Anika." "And if I do, what proof do I have that you'll honor your promise to take me out of here?" "My word as a vector." "I want my mama," Thale suddenly wailed, tugging at Baris' pant leg. Baris sent Deirdre another glance, then hunkered down so that Thale could see Anika's face. But that only seemed to make the little boy more upset, and his breath caught in convulsive sobs. He reached out to gently stroke his mother's hair. "Make her wake up," he sobbed. "I don't like her sleeping so much. Make her wake up." "You heard him, Deirdre," Baris said. "Make her wake up." Deirdre drew a long, slow breath before turning her gaze on Anika. "So be it," she murmured, then whispered a few soft words over Anika's still form. For a moment, nothing happened. Then Anika's eyelids fluttered open, and she regarded Baris in confusion. Thale let out a cry of joy, and wrapped his small arms around Anika's neck. "Baris?" Anika managed. "What's going on? Where are we?" "In the Lair," Baris answered. "You were too ill to remain in the village. There was nothing they could do for you there." "And here? They'll help me here?" "Deirdre helped you." The words left a bad taste in his mouth. Anika shifted her gaze, obviously noticing Deirdre for the first time. Baris could easily read the astonishment, and the fear, in his wife's eyes. He brushed her cheek tenderly.

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"How touching," Deirdre said, then turned. "I've healed Anika of the fever, but she'll need rest and herbs for the next few days. I'll leave instructions with the healers." "I would rather that she recover near Rhiannon," Baris said. "That is your prerogative, Baris. Let me fetch Sirab and we can be done with this. Be ready when I return. It won't take but a moment." She turned and strode away. It was a moment before Baris realized she'd taken Aysha with her. He scowled, then looked back down at Anika, keeping his voice calm. He had no wish to upset her. "How are you feeling?" "Strange. Weak. Baris, what price did you pay for this?" "Price?" "Deirdre wouldn't help me unless she got something in return. I know her." Baris paused a moment before answering. "She wishes only to escape the Lair. I promised her I would take her outside." Anika gasped. "But, Baris, that's going against the Sovereign!" "I know. But I put her here, Anika. I'm responsible for her imprisonment. I should be responsible for her freedom as well." Anika opened her mouth to say more, but at that moment Deirdre returned. She carried a small boy on her hip who eyed Baris with open wariness. For a moment Baris was stunned. He hadn't realized so much time had passed. He had expected only an infant. Instead, this was a child of over a year. A child with the pale complexion, the dark hair and eyes of a Vector. Baris tore his gaze away. "Where's Aysha?" he demanded, regaining his composure. "Safe," Deirdre replied coolly. "Aysha?" Anika breathed, struggling to sit up. "Where is she? What have you done with her, Deirdre?" "She is in the nursery," Deirdre said. "And there she will remain until I know that Sirab and I are safely away." Anger tore through Baris, and he rose so swiftly that Deirdre stumbled back a step. Sirab clung to her, his dark eyes going wide with fear. 40

"Don't!" Deirdre warned. "I have Aysha encased in a spell. Harm me and she will die." "No!" Anika cried. Thale broke into wails, hugging Anika in panic. "Don't let her hurt Aysha, mama! Make her go away." Deirdre looked down at the little boy. "I plan on going away, Thale. Just as soon as your father stops stalling and takes me." Deirdre narrowed her eyes in obvious contempt. "Your sister will be fine. Maybe spending the first fifteen months of her life as a prisoner in this foul place will be justice. After all, that's all my son has known." Baris stiffened with rage, seeing the trap Deirdre had laid. "Harm my daughter, Deirdre, and your death will be long and painful. I guarantee it." Deirdre glared at him, but he also saw the fear in her dark eyes. Her fear of him and what he might be capable of doing. She drew a deep breath, and clenched her jaw. "My death means nothing to me, Baris. Is Aysha's death just as meaningless?" Baris started to speak, but Anika silenced him with an upraised hand. "I will not leave Aysha here alone. She needs me, my milk. I will stay here with her and Thale. Baris will fulfill his end of the obligation. You will fulfill yours, Deirdre. You have no choice. I have just connected your Spell over Aysha to Sirab. If Aysha dies, so does he." Deirdre's gaze immediately shot to Thale, as if she sought to entrap him in her spell as well. Instead, she gasped, her eyes widening. Anika merely smiled. Obviously, Thale was well protected. "Go, Baris, take Deirdre to the escape she seeks. She will find it's but a temporary reprieve." She gripped Thale's small hand in hers. Baris frowned, unsure and confused, but there was something highly compelling in his wife's words. He looked toward Thale, but the little boy was staring at Deirdre, his face set in a hard frown. Baris trembled, not used to seeing such a mature look of distaste on Thale's face, not used to seeing the coldness in Anika's eyes. He looked back at Deirdre. "And where do you wish to go?" he asked.

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"For now, as far away from here as possible. I'll let you know our true course once I'm sure Darius won't be following." Baris scowled, but nodded. He leaned toward his wife, but could find no words to ease the parting. "Go, Baris," she whispered. "I will wait." And in her words, he knew she would confer with Darius as well. He sighed, and looked to Deirdre. "She doesn't know the way to the nursery." "I know where it is, papa," Thale said. "I can show mama." Baris started, his gaze darting to his son. "You know?" he breathed. Thale cocked his head at Baris, and gave a small smile. "I am part Vector, papa." The words sent a chill rushing through Baris, although he could not contend them. He looked back at Anika, who placed one hand against his cheek. He studied her for a long moment, sinking again in the blue depths of her eyes, then turned his head and kissed the palm of her hand. "I love you," he murmured, then bent and kissed Thale's forehead repeating the words. With a final look at them both, he cast the Spell taking him and Deirdre from the Lair. He strove for distance, not worrying overly much about technique. He simply wanted to get Deirdre away, so he could own up to his end of the bargain and return to Anika. He knew Darius would not be concerned about his use of magic, as Vectors were always coming and going at the Lair. And hopefully Darius hadn't known of his arrival either. Baris suspected Deirdre would have ordered the guards' silence to be assured her getaway would not be challenged. He had chosen a stand of dark wood to mask his landing, and was immediately thankful for that. Sirab begun howling in agony the moment the Spell was completed. It took Baris only a second to realize the reason. Daylight. He quickly wrapped the screaming child in his cloak, shielding him from the light that managed to penetrate the forest canopy. But doing so only panicked the child further. Sirab shrieked and struggled against the confines, until, at last, Deirdre cast a spell to put the child to sleep. She rounded on Baris at once, her dark eyes flashing with rage. "This is Anika's doing!" she snarled. 42

Baris stared at her, dumbstruck. "Anika? In what way? The child is reacting to his first touch of daylight, nothing more." "Her spell is keeping me from protecting our son." "I don't believe that!" Baris snapped. "Anika would never do anything to hurt a child!" "No? You'd better think twice about your dear, sweet wife, Baris. There's a side to Anika you don't know." Baris ignored the words, though Deirdre's accusations stung. He looked about. "We are as far from the Lair as I could manage. The rest is up to you." Deirdre stared at him, aghast. "You would leave me here? Alone? I have no supplies, no money." "Perhaps you should have thought of that earlier," Baris returned coldly. "My part in this was only to allow you an escape from the Lair. I have done so. I have filled my end of the bargain. Now fill yours. Release Aysha from the Spell you cast." "Then you will leave your child to die?" Deirdre shot back, ignoring Baris' request. Baris looked down at the sleeping child he held. A sudden fit of vengeance fell over him. The child was his, too. He would not abandon the boy with no means of survival. Deirdre on the other hand... She seemed to guess his thoughts. "Do not forget, Baris. I hold Aysha's life in my hands. Take Sirab away from me now, and I will kill her." A cold smile suddenly spread over her face. "As a matter of fact, I now hold power over two of your children. Think on it a moment, Baris. You take Sirab and leave me here, Aysha dies. And, thanks to your loving wife, if Aysha dies, so does Sirab. Interesting dilemma, no?" Baris stared at her, anger raging inside of him. Still, there was no denying the horrible truth behind her words. For a moment, he envisioned his own hands closing about her neck, squeezing the life from her. He shuddered, and drew a long, calming breath. He would not resort to murder. Besides he had no idea just what sort of spell she had cast on Aysha. Killing Deirdre might also kill his daughter. He glanced around, putting those thoughts aside. 43

"Where to from here?" Deirdre paused, seeming to realize she had him well trapped. "Well, I've been thinking about that. I think I'd like to go to Timmora." "Timmora?" Baris breathed. Dark amusement swept through her eyes. "It seems fitting somehow, don't you think?" Baris could not contain his grimace of rage and pain. Timmora. The very place he had first tasted hack. The beginning of his slide towards darkness. The place he had buried his guilt and his first true victim. He shuddered just hearing the name. He forced a calm to his voice. "I would think you would want to go someplace where you were unknown. We rather made a name for ourselves in Timmora." "You mean you made a name for yourself. I did nothing. Now, let's go, shall we? And no magic." Baris tightened his jaw in irritation. "And you expect to get to Timmora how?" "The old fashioned way, Baris. We walk." She turned and strode away. Baris watched her in fury. Walk? He had no idea how far from Timmora they were. He knew only that by walking, it delayed his arrival in Erster. He had made a promise to Darius, a promise he did not want to break. At the same time, he could not, would not, risk either Aysha's life or Sirab's. He clenched his jaw, and followed.

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Chapter 6 Jaeger sighed and turned away from the window. "I thought I had him," he said. "I was sure that I touched at another Vector." Vail, sprawled out on one of the beds in the large room, yawned, and rubbed at his eyes. "Well, there's no sense in worrying over it right now. Soon as I wake up, we'll get some breakfast, then investigate this bustling little town." Jaeger tossed him a small smile. "You're awake. Get up, or I leave without you." "Uh, uh," Vail said. "I gave Rhia my word that I wouldn't let you out of my sight." Jaeger picked up his cloak and headed toward the door. "Then you'd better hurry." "Jaeger!" Vail scrambled off the bed. "Jaeg, wait!" He stumbled after Jaeger, placing himself between the Vector and the closed door. "At least let me get properly dressed. It might cause a stir if I appear in the streets in only my underclothes." "Five minutes, Vail," Jaeger told him. "It's almost noon the way it is. You'd sleep the day away if I let you. I need to see if I can pick up that trail I sensed the other night." Vail grumbled in discontent, but hurried to get ready. Jaeger returned to the window to gaze into the busy streets. "This city is bigger than I thought. From what Baris had told me, I thought it was small." "Well," Vail said, drying his face briskly, "I suspect that Baris saw only a small portion of Erster." Jaeger heard the empathy in the words. Baris had almost died here, addicted to the hack. It had been Vail and Baul who had nursed the Vector back to health. Absently, Jaeger wondered how deeply involved Adan was with the powerful drug. Adan. He mulled the name over once again. He had never known Adan, had never heard his name before Darius had spoken it. Jaeger wondered just how strong Adan was. He was most definitely stronger than Jaeger, he with his half human constitution. Jaeger frowned. How was he ever going to be able to gain the advantage over Adan? Of course, all he really had to do was locate him. Darius could do the 45

rest. But would he? Or would he expect Jaeger to be able to take on Adan? To help the Vector through withdrawal? And what if Adan didn't want that help? What then? There were too many questions for Jaeger to think on. "All right," Vail announced. "I'm ready. But can we get something to eat first? I'm famished." Jaeger nodded, flung his cloak about his shoulders and led the way from the room. He and Vail had taken an inn in what seemed to be the middle of town. Not too close to the seedy tavern district, but not too expensive either. Most likely Adan hunted in the dark alleyways of the poorest, most run down section of town. Jaeger had wanted to go directly there, to get a room there, to mingle with the inhabitants. But Rhiannon had firmly denied him that route. He smiled to himself as he remembered her orders that he stay clear of the worst parts of town after dark. And he had listened. Still, he would be hard pressed to stay completely clear of the tavern district if he wanted to find Adan. It was there the Vector would be buying the drug to support his habit. Jaeger was sure of it. "There!" Vail said, stopping Jaeger. He pointed to a small, pleasant looking eatery. "Now that looks like a place that would serve up good food. Shall we?" Jaeger glanced about. He really wasn't hungry. He wanted only to explore the seedy dark streets in search of his prey. "Why don't you go on? I'll meet you back here in an hour or so." Vail hesitated. "Rhia said not to –" Jaeger silenced him with an upraised hand. "I know. But consider this, Vail. I need to reach out for another Vector. That's going to be hard to do with you standing next to me. You don't have a lot of Vector blood in you, but it's enough to cloud my perceptions." Again Vail hesitated, and Jaeger gave him a little shove toward the eatery. "Go on. Please. I'm not going far. I promise. Oh, and Vail, don't get any ideas about the serving wench at this place. Honey might not take too kindly to it." Vail couldn't help but smile. "Don't worry. Honey has been my wife for six months now. I'm not looking astray for the rest of my life."

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Jaeger smiled back, but he wondered about that statement. With Vector blood in his system, Vail would long outlive Honey, the serving wench he'd fallen in love with two years past. Most likely, Vail didn't want to think about it, any more than Jaeger wanted to think about outliving Rhiannon. With a sigh of resignation, Vail relented. "One hour, Jaeger. I'll expect to see you back here, right here, in this very spot." "One hour." Jaeger smiled and strode away before Vail could change his mind. Apparently, Vail was correct. Erster was not a village at all, but rather a city, teeming with populace. Jaeger walked through varying districts, each with its own layout and persona. There were numerous shops and well-kept inns with small but homey eateries at the first. Next, Jaeger entered what appeared to be the working district, consisting of blacksmith shops, liveries, funeral parlors, open-air markets and the like. His stomach rumbled hungrily as he passed the markets but his hunger was dulled the moment he witnessed the arrival of a body for the mortuary. Life and death, coexisting as it always had. He sighed and turned a corner. It was well past his allotted hour before he finally saw the dilapidated buildings ahead. A long, gentle hill greeted him. Beyond that lay the river, with sagging warehouses and small boats hugging the banks. The whole area was clouded with smoke, coming from various chimneys and open stoves, and was crowded with the working class, going about their business of blacksmithing, tanning, smoking meats, selling goods. Music, smoke and raucous laughter came from several establishments. Apparently the patrons weren't opposed to getting an early start on their drink. Jaeger wondered about the persona he had chosen for his illusion – a slightly older man of a middle income. He felt out of place, and looked around for a shed or hut in which to shift his appearance. There were several in view but upon inspection, he found all of them were closed and bolted. He supposed he should just turn back. He had promised Vail he wouldn't be gone long. But it had taken so long to get here that he wasn't about to leave without at least investigating further. He frowned, pulled his cloak tighter about his lithe frame and wandered down the dusty streets. He got curious looks from some of 47

the street urchins but otherwise he was ignored. Several times he reached out with his Vector senses but found nothing. If Adan was in the vicinity, he was well hidden. With a sigh, Jaeger turned, with the intent to slip into an alleyway and adjust his persona. He almost collided with a skinny, young man striding the opposite way. "Pardons," Jaeger mumbled. "Stay out of my way, you dodgy old man!" the youth snapped and pushed him aside. Jaeger stiffened, but let the young man pass. Then just as suddenly as the youth had stormed past, he stopped, and turned to face Jaeger. "Are you in business?" he asked, his voice soft and cold. "Business?" Jaeger echoed, confused. The youth hesitated, glancing about the dirty streets. His gaze shifted to Jaeger's clothing. "A bit fine for these parts, eh?" Jaeger tensed, not liking the tone of the words. He reached out with his senses, wary of anyone else lurking behind him in the darkness of the alley. "And that means what to you?" he asked the young man. "Not much." The young man paused, again darting furtive glances up and down the street. He abruptly reached out and snagged Jaeger by the arm, drawing him close. "I'll make you a good deal if you're in the right market." Jaeger's heart thumped. "For?" he whispered. A smile crossed the young man's finely chiseled features. "I think we're talking the same language here, old man. Why don't we continue someplace more comfortable?" Jaeger nodded, though he pulled free of the youth's grasp. There could be only one thing the boy was selling – hack. Perhaps through him Jaeger could get a few names or descriptions of those who bought on a regular basis. He gestured the young man ahead of him, and followed quietly. The youth took him down the sagging, broken boardwalk for several hundred paces, before ducking into yet another alleyway in the maze of the tavern district. Jaeger had paid close attention to each step, but now, as the young man quickened 48

his pace, turning first one way, then the next, Jaeger began to get confused. Finally, he stopped, unwilling to go further. The young man stopped as well, his gaze assessing their surroundings. "This is far enough," Jaeger said firmly. The young man shrugged, and pulled a pouch from his coat. "I have plenty more where this came from." He loosed the ties and held it toward Jaeger. "Take a breath of that and tell me if you've ever smelled anything that comes close to this quality." Jaeger hesitated, not exactly sure if he should follow the young man's invitation. Jaeger didn't know that much about hack. He had heard that to be effective it had to be ingested, but he supposed there could be other ways to derive pleasure from it. Still, he bent his head forward and took a small sniff. The pungent aroma nearly sent him into a sneezing fit. The youth grinned. "See? I told you. Nothing purer on the streets of Erster. Nothing." "And this will cost me how much?" Jaeger asked. "I'll tell you what I'll do. I like your looks. You look like a fair decent fellow." "I thought I was a dodgy old man," Jaeger interrupted. The young man scowled, a flush spreading over his thin cheeks. He gave a nervous laugh, as of one trying to cover his own stupidity. "Oh, right. I apologize for that. My mind was elsewhere. You won't hold that against me now will you? And pass up the chance to buy the best hack in all of Erster?" "And at the best price," came another voice. Jaeger spun. Three other men approached; two were brawny, hairy brutes, while the third was more refined. Jaeger cursed himself for lack of attention. He should have sensed the men coming, wondered why he didn't. He watched as the trio sauntered up to them. The refined young man shifted his gaze from Jaeger to the other youth, who had gone white. "I...I was just about to discuss the price, Brede," the youth stammered. "I'm sure you were, Eli. Go ahead, continue." Eli licked his lips and backed away. "No, no, that's all right, Brede. It's your purse." 49

Brede smiled, the feeble daylight glittering off snow-white teeth. "Yes, it is, Eli. A purse you've been skimming lately." He gestured to one of his men. "Why don't you take Eli take a walk? I'll finish up here." He looked at Jaeger. "You look like a man of fine taste. Perhaps I can offer you the best of the line?" Something in the tone sent chills whipping through Jaeger. He shot a quick glance at Eli, then looked back at Brede. "Actually, I would prefer to conclude my business with Eli." Brede's eyebrow lifted in quick surprise, and he drew a deep, slow breath. "Unless, you would rather," Jaeger continued, "that I took my business elsewhere altogether." Brede's eyes snapped to meet Jaeger's, then a slow smile curved the young man's mouth. "Elsewhere? Perhaps you are new here in Erster. There is no 'elsewhere'." Jaeger gave a mirrored smile. "There is always an 'elsewhere'," he said calmly, and stepped aside. "Very well," Brede said tightly. "Eli, finish up your business here, then we'll talk." He made a sharp gesture to his two men, and the trio strode away. Jaeger watched them go, anger swelling in his gut. It was clear how Brede meant to "talk" to Eli. And the boy didn't look strong enough to be pounded on by either of the two brutes accompanying Brede. Jaeger turned back to Eli, who sagged against the wooden wall with a quick breath of relief. Or despair. Jaeger wasn't sure. He was silent for a moment. "So?" he finally asked. "Your price?" Eli wiped at his brow, then brushed unruly black locks from his face. "For this much, for this quality, six silvers." "Six?" "Five is the least, sir." "And how much of this money will you see?" "Me?" Eli seemed surprised by the question. "Yes. You sell it. You take the risk. How much will line your pocket?"

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Eli couldn't contain a smirk, but he quickly wiped it away. "Enough to survive. I'm well taken care of." Jaeger gave a soft chuckle. "They are not within hearing range. You may speak freely." Eli's gaze jerked to Jaeger. "How... how do you know? No! I don't want to know. Five silvers. That's the price." Jaeger sighed, well aware of the youth's terror. Without another word, Jaeger took out seven silvers and pressed them into the boy's hand. "Six for Brede. One for you. At least you'll get that much." And perhaps, he thought, it'll keep Brede happy and you from getting a beating. Eli stared at the coinage in shock, then looked up at Jaeger. "Thank you, sir," he breathed, then shoved the small leather pouch into Jaeger's hand. "Thank you." He pushed away from the building and darted away, disappearing around a corner. Jaeger sighed, then looked down at the pouch in his hand. He hadn't gotten the information he wanted, but he had a feeling that this Brede fellow might be able to help him out more than Eli. He tucked the pouch into his tunic, and turned back to re-trace his steps to the main street. However, he was hopelessly lost in the winding streets and alleyways. Still, he kept walking, trying to find something that looked familiar. At last, he left an alley and found himself at the bottom of a rather steep incline. With a sigh, he began to climb, hoping it took him back to the nicer areas of Erster. About half way up, he paused to catch his breath. He hadn't realized how badly out of shape he was. Not that he was upset with the reason. Caring for Rhiannon and the children had become a full-time job for him. He did feel a little guilty about not earning money for his family, but Rhiannon's skills as a healer were well known and sought after. She told him time and again that he did his part in caring for the house and their children. Still, staying at home had left him soft and out of shape. He turned to glance back down at the hazy tavern district, then gasped aloud. Even from this distance, even in the quickly falling twilight, he could see what was taking place in one of the alleys. Three men were beating another. The victim was 51

on the ground, being kicked and stomped as if he were no more than an annoying bug. Without regard for his own safety, Jaeger bolted for the alleyway. He had the advantage of moving downhill, yet it took him precious moments to reach his destination. By the time he did, the men had left off on the beating, and the victim was face down in the dirt. The three men looked up at his unexpected arrival. One of them gave a lopsided, snide grin. "Well, what do you make of this?" he asked his cohorts. "A fine man to be running to the rescue of the likes of him," another man retorted, lodging a hard kick into the unconscious man. "A man with money, no doubt," the third drawled, and the three men approached Jaeger. "Leave now, while you can," Jaeger said calmly, recognizing two of the men as those who had been with Brede. His gaze shot to the crumpled figure on the ground, then back to the men. One swung out a doubled fist. Jaeger caught it, his own fingers closing over the man's in a firm grip. A swift downward movement sent the man to his knees with a yelp of pain and surprise. The other two men stumbled back a step, momentarily caught off guard. "Get him!" the man before Jaeger shouted, trying in vain to loose his hand from Jaeger's strong grip. Jaeger drew a deep breath, and looked at the man kneeling before him. For a second the two merely stared into each other's eyes, then Jaeger struck him so hard it sent him sprawling, unconscious, in the dirt. Jaeger lifted his gaze to the other two men, who had again backed off. From the end of the alleyway, voices carried; people peered into the gloom, finally drawn by the sounds of the scuffle. The two men spun and bolted, leaving Jaeger alone. He at once turned to the youth, gently rolling him onto his back. He had already guessed whom he would find. "Eli," he murmured. He stared at the young man, stunned at the amount of damage the three men had done to the Eli's face. There wasn't a place left that

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wasn't bloody and torn. A very small spark of magic woke the boy. "Who were they?" Jaeger whispered. Eli peered up at Jaeger through swollen, blood-filled eyes, and a smile quirked the edges of his torn lips. "You," he managed. "They...didn't get...it." Jaeger frowned, confused by the words, even as a group of citizens, including several in uniform, began to gather around him. Eli reached up and gripped Jaeger's arm in a weak hold. "They didn't get it," he repeated. "Here, now," a man said. "Stand aside. Let's see what we got." Jaeger moved back, letting the officer examine Eli. His gaze scanned the crowd, but nowhere did he see the other two attackers. His gaze returned to Eli, just in time to see the young man heave into the dirt. Blood, tissue, teeth and one silver coin were spewed onto the ground, before the boy went limp and lifeless. Jaeger's gaze shot to Eli's face in sudden understanding. The youth had swallowed the money, rather than let the three men take it from him. Instead, the three men had taken his life. *** "Where the hell have you been?" Vail demanded. Jaeger sighed, dropped his cloak on a nearby chair, and held out the hack pouch to Vail. "What do you make of this?" Vail took the pouch. "Where did you get this?" "I bought it from a street urchin," Jaeger replied. "A boy not much younger than you." He went to the washbasin to splash some cold water on his face. "Why? I mean, why did you buy it?" Jaeger shrugged, toweling his face dry. He dropped his lanky form into a chair. "I don't know. He just seemed so...so needy. I wanted to help him out. Instead, I got him killed." Vail started. "Killed?" He sank down in another chair and regarded Jaeger. "Maybe you'd better tell me everything that happened." Jaeger looked over at him with a small smile. "You sound like a mother hen, Vail." 53

"Well, by the gods! You slip off on your own, leaving me wandering the town looking for you. You're gone for hours, then you come back with this pouch and a tale of a boy getting killed! Now, tell me what happened!" "There is little to tell. The boy accosted me, asked me if I would like to buy some hack. I thought maybe I could get some information from him, but before I could, several other men approached us. The boy seemed to know them. He was afraid of them as well. I bought the hack, giving the boy a little extra money for his own pocket, and we parted ways. As I was leaving the town, I saw him being brutalized by three men. He died of his injuries. That's where I've been, speaking with the constables and trying to track down the other two men." Vail was silent a moment. "They were probably his employers, or hired hands. All of the money he made on a sale was supposed to go to his boss. Withholding the extra you gave him was his mistake." Jaeger felt a pang of guilt whip through him. "How could they have known? I gave him the asking price to give to them. He swallowed the rest." "Swallowed? How do you know that?" "He vomited it right before he died." Jaeger shuddered, reaching out to toss another log on the fire. Vail frowned, then opened the pouch and tumbled some of the hack onto his palm. His frown deepened and he sniffed the dried leaves. "How much did you pay for this?" "Seven silvers. Why?" "Seven!" Vail snorted in disgust. "For tea?" "Tea? What are you talking about?" "Most of this is tea. There are a few flakes of hack in here, but not much. Just enough to give it the right scent. Certainly not worth seven silvers." Jaeger looked closer at the leaves Vail held, his thoughts returning to Brede's words. "Brede wondered if I might be interested in something better," he mumbled. "He's probably selling on the side," Vail told him. "Dealers often do that." "Why?" 54

"Because he has a boss, too. Someone who takes a percentage of the money he makes on sales. Probably more than this Brede fellow wants to give. So, he sells a purer form of the hack on the side and lines his pocket with the money." "That sounds risky to me." Vail nodded. "It is. He certainly wouldn't want his boss to find out." "Do you suppose that's why he killed the boy? Because Eli knew about this other hack?" "No, I doubt it. He probably just knew that you had given the boy something extra and wanted it all. Greed. That's usually the prime motivator in killings like this. That, or plain evil. Maybe the boy wasn't selling as much as Brede wanted him to. Maybe Brede's boss was pressuring him for more results. It could have been anything. You won't find many pleasant people involved with hack, Jaeger." Jaeger sighed, and sank into a chair. "And this Vector we're searching for is involved. His heritage and his addiction will make for a volatile opponent." "Exactly why you shouldn't be out wandering around by yourself," Vail told him, replacing the hack leaves into the pouch. He tied the string and tossed the pouch onto the side table. "In fact, I don't know that you and I will be enough. I think if we're going to find this Vector, and get him back to the Lair, we're going to need more help." "You're thinking Baris will join us?" Vail shrugged. "I don't know that I want him to. He was addicted, too. It would be an easy slide for him back into that addiction. I think it would be better for him to stay far away from Erster." "Then who did you have in mind?" Jaeger asked. "I didn't have anyone in mind, but I think we need more help. I think we need a..." Vail stopped mid-sentence, his gaze darting to Jaeger. Jaeger smiled. "A pure Vector?" he finished. Vail reddened. "That's not what I meant, Jaeger." Jaeger waved the words away, and rose. "That's all right. I do know what you mean. It's obvious that Adan has excellent command over his magic. He's either not 55

using any at all right now, or he's got it very well guarded. And unless he uses it, it will be extremely difficult for me to pick him out of the crowd. A pure Vector would be able to do that." He moved to the window to peer out into the busy streets. After a moment's silence, he turned away. "I'm exhausted. I'm going to get some sleep. I'll think more about this in the morning." "Jaeger," Vail said quietly. "It is morning. And you haven't fed for a over a day." Jaeger looked over at him. "I know. I'm fine for now, Vail. Are you?" Vail nodded. "Just don't let yourself get so involved with this Adan fellow that you forget to take care of yourself." "I won't." Jaeger stretched out on the bed, his eyes already half closed. "I'm going down to get some breakfast," Vail said. "I'll order you up some as well." Jaeger nodded sleepily, waving Vail away.

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Chapter 7 Adan prowled restlessly through the night. He didn't like it here. There were too many lights, too many people. He was hungry, cold and trembling. He had not fed for days, had not ingested hack since the previous night, when he has used the last leaves he possessed. Anger gnawed at him, set his jaw, drove his steps. It had taken him over an hour to reach his usual feeding grounds, only to find the place alive with unusual and unexpected action. Constables roamed the streets, obviously searching for someone. Adan heard snatches of conversation from passersby. A boy, beaten to death. One man found unconscious. Two more rumored to have escaped. Adan had quickly retraced his steps back toward the inn. He couldn't risk being linked to that. He had enough trouble of his own. Now, once more in that gray world between the elite and the downtrodden, he wondered about his next move. He pulled his cloak tighter against the chill of the night, the chill that increased his trembling. He needed hack. His gaze shifted to the cloudy skies. There wasn't much of a moon tonight, barely enough for a human to see by. He could probably find any number of careless people to satisfy his need for blood, but what of his need for hack? It wasn't likely that the people strolling the streets here were users of the drug. Adan winced as a pain flashed through him. It passed quickly enough but left him gasping, holding to the side of the nearest building for support. He knew it would get worse, much worse, if he didn't find what he needed. He pushed away from the building, and stumbled back toward the tavern district. He assessed every person who walked past, every person he noticed, inside an establishment or out. If he had to physically entice his victim, it didn't matter. He didn't care anymore. He needed hack. He had to stop several times more to let a pain pass. Each time his anger grew, until it was a festering rage, threatening to choke him. He slid into an alleyway, threaded his way through the filth and emerged once again on a darkened street. A huddle of youths obscured the feeble light from a window, and Adan narrowed his 57

eyes, reaching out subtly with his magic. A gasp escaped him, sent his mouth watering, his extremities trembling. Hack! And lots of it. He watched as the group of young people dispersed, disappearing into the dark shadows of the street. Several went together, a few alone. Adan chose one of the lone, and silently followed. He waited until the youth had turned onto a dark, empty lane, then closed in. "Evening," he whispered, coming alongside. The person gasped, whirling to face him. Adan started. A woman. Her round face was pale in the sliver of moonlight, her dark eyes wide with surprise, her youth apparent. Adan recovered quickly, his senses overwhelmed by her closeness, by the hack she carried. His mouth watered, yet he stepped back. Not a mere child. He wouldn't. She gave him a seductive smile, tilting her head. "So, M'Lord," she purred. "How might I help you this eve?" It took only a moment for realization to grasp Adan. She was a whore, common to these streets. No matter how young she appeared, she had a wisdom far beyond those years. She closed the distance between them with slow, calculated steps. One hand rested on her hip, while the other twisted an already loose tie at her bosom. "Did M'Lord wish company?" she whispered. Adan recovered from his surprise, again overwhelmed by the scent of the hack. "What sort of company did you have in mind?" he asked. She giggled, walking her fingers up his chest to his chin. She gently turned his head. A small, decrepit shack stood nearby, nearly lost in the tall grass and bushes surrounding it. Without a word, she led him from the road. Once enclosed in the darkness, he became aware of not only the hack, but of her womanliness as well. It had been months since he'd had a woman, and he suddenly felt himself aching to be with her. She pressed close to him, planting a wet kiss on his lips. It was a struggle for him to pull back. "Where is the hack?" he asked softly, his voice rasping with need.

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She narrowed her eyes at him, hesitating, then withdrew the pouch and held it out to him. He smiled at her, though he doubted she could see it in the darkness. "Please, take it," he instructed. "I don't use it, M'Lord," she replied, her own voice soft. "I only sell it." "Take it." His command left no room for argument. He watched as she opened the pouch and took a few leaves out. "More," he encouraged. She hesitated only briefly, then did as told. She placed the leaves on her tongue, tipped her head back, and closed her eyes. Adan took the hack pouch from her, tied it securely, then deposited it inside his tunic pocket. He wasn't sure he believed her. She seemed quite used to using the drug. A small smile touched at her lips as the euphoria raced through her. Adan leaned forward and pressed his lips gently against hers. She did not pull away, but rather returned the kiss with unexpected passion. Her tongue pushed into his mouth, her hands tangled in his hair. Adan stood back a moment, his heart pounding, his loins already hardening. He swept his cloak off, and placed it on the ground, then led the young woman there as well. She giggled, and slipped free of her blouse, letting full, rounded breasts spill out. Adan drew a quick breath as she fumbled with his clothing, attempting to open his breeches. He obliged, as she squirmed free of her skirts. She pulled him close, pressing her thighs against him, rotating her hips, teasing him with her movements. His breathing was ragged, his heart beating so hard it hurt. The pressure in his loins was almost unbearable, but the closeness of her neck was pure torture. His mouth watered as he caressed her soft skin with his tongue. He wanted her now, completely. Yet, at the same time, he wanted to wait, to torment himself with the powerful relief taking both her blood and body would be. But when she wrapped her legs about his waist, Adan could no longer control himself, could no longer wait. He drove into her, at the same time sinking his incisors into her neck. She let out a soft cry of surprise and pain, which only drove Adan's desires higher. Her grip tightened on his arm, as if to push him away. But her 59

strength was nothing against his. He fed with ravenous delight, the hack-tinged blood coursing through him. It sent his senses soaring, spiraled him ever upward, brought him ever closer to the pinnacle of pure ecstasy. When it came, the relief was incredible, sending his whole body into orgasmic release. A muffled groan escaped him and he collapsed against her with a sigh, panting, waiting for his heart to slow. His mouth was still at her neck, and he sucked weakly, exhausted, yet euphoric. He was only mildly aware that she was not moving, that her hands had fallen limply to her sides, that her legs no longer held him close. He pushed back from her. Her eyes were closed, her face pale. His gaze shifted to his bite. A moment of guilt flashed through him, and he touched the wound, healing it but for the two small red marks that would forever remain. She did not move. He adjusted his clothing, then lowered her skirts. For a long moment, he sat beside her, looking down at the white face, the still form, waiting for her to wake. He thought he should be feeling something other than satiation and relief. Finally, he placed his hand against her neck, and felt a pulse. She was alive. He brushed her dark hair from her face, pulled his cloak up around her, covering her partial nudity, then rose, and slipped from the shed. She would wake but remember nothing. That was the way Adan preferred it. Morning was well upon the town when Adan returned to his room at the hotel. He stumbled up the stairs, and slipped, unseen, into his room. It was chilled, the fireplace cold and black. But Adan didn't have the strength to start a fire. Instead, he collapsed on the bed, and was asleep in moments.

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Chapter 8 Baris opened his eyes, immediately seeking out Deirdre. He was seated, leaning against the cold, stone wall of a cave. It was dark, but not so dark that he couldn't use his Vector senses. Still, he didn't need them. Resourceful as ever, Deirdre had kindled a small fire, and now sat near it, feeding Sirab from a goatskin bottlebag. Baris winced. The child was past nursing age, but Baris wondered if Darius had allowed the child to breastfeed. He supposed not. Breast milk was likely to kill the Vector instinct, especially if given before blood. "Disgusting, isn't it?" Deirdre asked. "What is?" She glanced down at Sirab, who fingered the buttons on her gown while he ate. She dabbed at the side of his mouth, and held up the cloth. Blood stained it. Despite himself, Baris grimaced. Growing up, he had not thought it odd at all to feed infants on blood. Now it seemed...he shook himself and got to his feet, stretching sore muscles. He didn't even want to ask Deirdre where she had gotten the fresh blood. He and Deirdre had been walking for almost two days, finally stopping from exhaustion. Baris had carried Sirab the entire way, and could not deny that he had grown more attached to the child by the minute. Once evening had fallen, Deirdre had released the child from her Spell, and he had spent a great of time merely watching Baris. The Vector wondered what the child saw, what the child felt. He was too quiet, too calm, very unlike Thale when he'd been this age. Even though Thale had his moments of moodiness, he was seldom as still as Sirab. The cave was near a small stream, and Baris moved toward it. Deirdre let out a soft laugh. "I have tea made, Baris," she said. He froze, not looking at her. He remembered her teas well. They had been laced with herbs and magic. The herbs had broken down his resistance; the magic had broken down his will. He was not about to travel that road again.

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"I prefer water," he said, and left the cave. He hunkered down by the stream and splashed his face, then took a long drink. He noticed his hand was trembling. He needed to feed, had not done so but for the small amount taken from Anika days earlier. He hoped Timmora was close by. He would not allow himself to feed on Deirdre. Not ever. Not even if his life depended on it. "I have food as well," Deirdre called, breaking into his thoughts. He started, realizing she was close behind him. He shook his head. "No, thank you. We should be close to Timmora. I will eat there." "Oh, for the sake of the gods!" she snapped. She grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around to face her, nearly toppling him backward into the water. He recovered quickly, straightening and moving away from her touch in one easy movement. Her look of irritation turned to one of amusement. "Why, Baris, what's this all about? Don't tell me that you actually fear me now?" Baris felt the color creep to his cheeks. Feared her? Of course. But he would never tell her the true reason why. That he feared himself more. Feared his attraction to her, feared his memory of being with her. He shook his head, moving back toward the cave. "You are the Sovereign's Mate. I cannot interfere with that." "I am no one's mate!" she snapped. "He does not own me! No man owns me!" Baris turned to face her. "Darius is not a man." Deirdre glared at him. "As if I didn't know that, Baris!" A cold smile suddenly played across her face. "Besides you're acting as if I might still be interested in you. Or...is it that you're still interested in me?" Her words were far too close to the truth, and he again turned away, and took the last steps into the cave. Sirab looked up at him from where he sat on the cave floor, and Baris was once more struck with the child's appearance. There was no doubt he was the child of a Vector. That bothered Baris more than he could admit. Thale bore his mother's coloring, and could never be taken for a Vector, or even having Vector blood. Even when Baris was with him, people didn't automatically assume they were father and child. But with Sirab there could be no question. He was a miniature version of Baris. And a part of him. 62

Sirab was still a moment, then pushed to his feet and walked toward Baris, arms outstretched. Baris couldn't help but smile at the child. He hunkered down and waited for the child to reach him, even as Deirdre re-entered the cave. She gasped out loud. "He can walk!" she cried. Baris glanced at her, then back at the child, who seemed to be having no difficulty traversing the uneven ground of the cave. It was obvious he had been walking for some time, and reached Baris without even a waver of step. "You didn't know?" "No! I...I –" "Your own child," Baris interrupted. "And you didn't see his first step?" Deirdre glared at him. "Perhaps I missed his first step, Baris, but you missed his first breath. Which is the worse?" She moved in front of him, and grabbed Sirab, pulling him into her arms. The child howled his protest, and pushed against her, trying to escape her arms. "Stop it!" Deirdre snapped, then punished Sirab with a sharp jolt of magic. "No!" Baris' voice echoed off the rocks, subduing both Sirab and Deirdre. "You will not punish my son with magic!" "Your son?" Deirdre's face tightened with rage. "So now, he is your son? You, who couldn't have been bothered with even seeing him for over a year? You who had no idea you even had a son? Now, he's yours?" Baris drew a tight breath, trying to rein in his anger. "I had no choice. I abided by the Sovereign's wishes. Now, all of that has changed. I am here. Sirab is here. He is my son. And you will not, I repeat, will not punish him with magic. It's time to move on. Pack up." "As you wish," she hissed, and near thrust Sirab into his arms. "You need time with your son." She doused the fire with the tea she had made for Baris, snatched up the pack, and stormed from the cave. Baris let out an angry breath, then looked at the child in his arms. The boy stared back at him, dark eyes questioning and frightened. It sent remorse surging through Baris, and he abruptly hugged Sirab to him. "I'm sorry, little one," he whispered. "I

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didn't mean to scare you. I'm sorry." He rocked the child gently for a few moments, then started when Sirab's arms closed around his neck. "Papa," the little boy mumbled, and laid his head on Baris' shoulder.

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Chapter 9 "Jaeg! Jaeger!" Jaeger forced his eyes open at the call. Vail hovered over him, dark eyes concerned. Jaeger moaned and waved him away. "Let me sleep." "Jaeg, they found another body." Vail's voice was flat. Jaeger's eyes snapped open. "A body?" Vail nodded. "A young woman." He said nothing more about her, but turned toward the fireplace and tossed another chunk of wood on the flames. "I've already ordered up breakfast. It's over there." Jaeger sat up, just now aware of the tantalizing odor of bacon, eggs and bread. His stomach rumbled hungrily, and he stood, taking a moment to stretch. "I feel like hell," he mumbled, then frowned, eyeing Vail. "And you look like hell." Vail shrugged, his gaze locked on the fire. "I've not been bled for a while now." Jaeger winced and Vail looked his way. "And, as far as I know, you've not fed for a while either, have you?" "I haven't," Jaeger agreed quietly. Vail rose. "Well, then, I think it's time." He walked toward Jaeger, stopping before him. He looked up, then tipped his head to one side, and thumped his neck with two fingers. "Just there. Don't make me use my magic on you. We both know how that usually turns out." Jaeger couldn't help but smile. He full well knew what Vail could do with what little Vector blood raced through his veins. After all, it had been Jaeger who had put the blood there. Without another word, he lowered his head and bit. He hadn't realized how hungry his body was for the blood until he started feeding. And as usual, his body began to react to the feed in a sexual way. He could feel Vail's body respond in like, and guilt raced through him. He started to pull back, even though he knew Vail had not given enough blood to reduce the iron levels to normal. Vail apparently knew it as well, and a growl of anger escaped him. "Not yet," he seethed and tightened his

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hold, jerking Jaeger closer. The unexpected movement cost Jaeger his balance, and he and Vail toppled to the bed. Jaeger was once again swept up in the heat of the moment, in the overpowering connection he had with Vail, in Vail's blood connection with Rhiannon. For a split second, Jaeger forgot that he lay not with his wife, but his wife's brother. That was all of the time needed for him to complete his feed to both his and Vail's satisfaction. And all of the time needed for them both to experience a sexual release as well. For a long moment, they both lay quietly, then Vail rolled away. Jaeger glanced at the young man. He was well aware that Vail had again used just a touch of Vector seduction to coerce him into doing as he wished - completing the feed to his satisfaction despite Jaeger's reluctance to do so. Jaeger was unsure how he felt about that. On the one hand it was prudent that Vail knew exactly what he needed. On the other hand, Jaeger didn't like feeling controlled. Still, had he done any less in his past? He shook his head and sighed. "What good does it do me to feed on you, to reduce the iron in your blood, when every time I do, you end up using magic, thereby increasing the iron once again?" "Shut up, Jaeger," Vail mumbled, closing his eyes. Jaeger rolled his eyes, and once more got to his feet. This time breakfast beckoned, and he plopped down in the chair at the small table to answer the call of his stomach. It was many minutes before Vail finally spoke. "Why does that always happen with you?" He propped himself on both elbows to regard Jaeger. "I've been fed on by numerous other Vectors, and no one affects me the way you do. Why?" Jaeger paused a moment, washing down a bite of bread with some hot tea. He read more to Vail's words than was there. "Are you worried that they may be an attraction between us in a sexual sense?" "Hell, yes, I'm worried!" Vail snapped, sitting up. "What do you think? This doesn't make any sense to me." "Nor to me. But then, I have never shared blood with a human before." Again, he paused. "I am amazed at your ability to hypnotize so quickly and easily, however." 66

Vail frowned. "You're changing the subject. Just answer the damn question. Why do I have a sexual response every time you feed on me? What's wrong with me? Do you think, well, maybe that I..." His words trailed off, and he shrugged again, flushing, and falling back onto the bed. Jaeger looked over at him. "Perhaps you're right, Vail. It's obvious that our true passion lies with each other. Perhaps we should end this façade, leave our respective spouses and be with each other." Vail gasped, sitting up so rapidly he nearly tumbled from the bed. "No! I...I mean, I wouldn't...I couldn't...No! I love Honey. She's my wife. I don't love you! No! That's not what I mean." He moaned, covering his face with both hands. "I just don't love you that way, Jaeg." Jaeger rose, and went to sit beside the young man. "I know, Vail. As to an explanation - there could be several answers, Vail. You and Rhiannon are related. You share the same blood from your parents. And you also carry my blood. That's a powerful combination. But I can assure you that even though I care a great deal for you, my intimate love lies with Rhiannon, not you." "And mine with Honey," Vail murmured, then sighed and shook his head. He rose. "I'm going to take a bath." "Wait. I need to hear more about this death." "What more is there? A young woman, apparently a whore, found in a deserted shed, her neck mutilated, her blood drained. The mark of a Vector." Jaeger bristled. "Not all Vectors, Vail. I don't see any mutilation on your neck." "I'm sorry. Poor choice of words. Not all Vectors. But it seems this particular Vector doesn't have the tidy handiwork you do." Jaeger was quite a moment. "Where was this shed?" "Down in the tavern district." "And where I first caught a sign of the Vector." He rose and returned to the table. "It appears our course is laid out for us today." "I don't know, Jaeger. Rhia said that –"

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"Vail! I know what Rhiannon said. And I know what I have to do. Now, go, take your bath. I would like to leave soon." "I'll skip the bath," Vail said. "Besides what's the good of a nice hot bath with no time to soak in it?" "Hot?" Jaeger teased. "And here I thought you were needing a cold bath." Vail's gaze shot to Jaeger's face, then the young man rolled his eyes, and flung the pillow at the Vector. Jaeger chuckled, catching the pillow, then tossed it back on the bed as Vail went into the adjoining bath. With a sigh, the Vector downed the last of his tea, his thoughts on what had occurred between him and Vail yet again. He supposed he had only himself to blame. He had given Vail his own blood. More than once. It had allowed Vail to live, but it had also given him the ability to use a small amount of Vector magic. Magic that Vail didn't know how to use and couldn't control. When his need to be bled was high, the magic took over, ensuring him that the Vector bleeding him would be his, all his. Still, as Vail had pointed out, no other Vector affected him the way Jaeger did. And Jaeger had no answer for that. It was something he supposed he should take up with Darius at some point. Especially if Vail was to be his traveling companion in the future. While Jaeger could have sought out someone else, he trusted Vail. More than that, he had an easy relationship with the young man. He sighed and went to peer out the window. Morning had dawned gloomy and gray. His gaze drifted past the surrounding buildings, toward the tavern district. He wondered about returning there. Surely if he had caught a sense of this other Vector, the other Vector was also now aware of him. And he would most likely move from his normal hunting grounds. Jaeger hadn't thought to ask Vail where the shed with the young woman had been located. Still, even if the shed were in the tavern district, that didn't mean the Vector was staying in that area. What would I do were it me? Jaeger thought. I'd move, go somewhere unexpected. Like? He looked around his room. Like here. Not too downtrodden, not too rich. He hesitated a moment, then reached out warily with his Vector senses. He picked up only Vail, and sighed as the young witch re-entered the room, toweling his dark hair. 68

"You're not ready," Vail said. "You were in the bath," Jaeger pointed out. "Tell me, where was the shed the young woman was found?" "I think it was down in the working district. Sort of off the beaten path." "Figures. We'll go there first, but then I want to search out this part of town." "This part? Why would a Vector be here?" "I am here," Jaeger replied, amused. "All right but you're not trying to evade...oh! I see." His eyes brightened. "If he were trying to hide from discovery, he'd go someplace unexpected of him. Makes sense." Jaeger smiled. The young man's quickness and parallel thoughts were just one reason why he made such a valuable, and needed, friend. Jaeger turned towards the bath. "Less than an hour, I'll be ready." "I'll be waiting," Vail replied.

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Chapter 10 Baris stopped on the badly rutted road, waiting for Deirdre to catch up to him. Timmora loomed in the distance and Baris was eager to get there. At the same time, he wasn't. He had spent two full days agonizing over the situation regarding Sirab and was still no closer to an answer. He did not think he could part with this child who had grown to mean so much to him. He smoothed the sleeping child's hair from his face, grimacing just slightly at the sight of the black cloth covering the boy's eyes. "Thank you," Deirdre seethed, reaching his side. She pushed back tangles of sweat-wet hair. "I seem to remember you being a bit more of a gentleman that last time we went traveling together." Baris glared at her. "The last time we traveled together, I was drugged." "Drugged?" Deirdre let out a short, scorn-filled laugh. "Hardly. The only thing drugging you was your own libido." She started past him, then yelped when Baris grabbed her by the arm. "Do not even suggest that. I am fully aware of your teas and your magic, Deirdre. And I am fully aware of what they did to me." She hesitated a moment, then a sultry smile curved her lips. "The tea had nothing to do with it, Baris. Why can't you just admit that to yourself?" Baris swallowed hard, and released his hold on her arm, again seduced by the dark depths of her eyes, the lure of her voice and presence. Instead of moving away from him, she moved closer, never taking her gaze from his. He felt his stomach lurch, his heart flutter, and when she reached up to caress his cheek, he sucked in his breath. It was only Sirab who saved him. "Papa?" The soft little voice held a questioning wisdom of someone four times his age, and the child reached up to remove the blindfold Baris had fashioned for him. "No, Sirab," Baris said, gently staying the boy's hands. "You must leave it in place so the light does not hurt your eyes."

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Deirdre lifted one eyebrow in surprise. "Papa? Oh, how rich. With you only two days and already he calls you Papa. He was with Darius for over a year and called him by no name." "Darius is not his father. I am." Deirdre smiled, and pressed one soft hand against his cheek. "Yes, you are," she whispered, and turned away toward town. Baris momentarily closed his eyes. By the Sovereign! How was he to ever extricate himself from her? From what she had done to him? What she still did? If he had ever questioned the power of her magic, he no longer did so. Or was it really all the magic? Was she right in that it was his own weaknesses, his own sexual drive that bound him to her? He shook the thought aside, and followed her, clutching Sirab as if the little boy were a barrier between him and his emotions. They entered Timmora within the hour. It was much as Baris remembered it despite the passing years. It was large, dirty, noisy and teeming with populace. Carts rumbled by, rattling as if at any moment they might fall apart. Pedestrians clogged the boardwalks, either pushing past others in their haste towards their destinations, or simply lounging outside the doorways of establishments hindering the passage of others. From the dress and filth, Baris guessed he and Deirdre had entered the town in one of the more unsavory districts. Deirdre pressed closer to Baris, her face wary, her gaze assessing each passerby who stared in abashed curiosity at them. Sirab began to cry, obviously picking up on his mother's unease. Again, he reached for the blindfold, and it suddenly occurred to Baris why everyone was staring at them. He had assumed the persona of a middleclass gentleman, a man who could easily be Sirab's father, Deirdre's husband. He wanted no questions about his rights to the squirming child. Still, having that child blindfolded was bringing more attention than he wanted. "We need to get inside," he said quietly. "They're wondering about Sirab's eye covering." "Let them wonder," Deirdre retorted. "It's none of their business."

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Baris clenched his jaw in anger, and pointed toward an inn. "There. We can stay there. We can find another –" "No!" Deirdre interrupted. "I am not staying in filth!" "You forget. You have no money. You will stay where I choose." Baris turned and strode across the street to the inn. Deirdre had no choice but to follow. Once inside the dimness of the old wooden building, Baris relaxed his grip on Sirab's flailing arms. The little boy tore the mask off at once, then howled and rubbed at his eyes. Baris moved away from the glaring light of the wall sconces. He would have asked Deirdre to take the child, to move to a darkened corner, but somehow he was reluctant to part with the boy. "Can I help you?" the proprietor asked, staring at him through narrowed eyes. "Yes, we would like a room. Just for a night. My son needs to rest. He's had an accident, and the sunlight bothers him." "Aye, I can see that." The man studied Sirab a moment longer, then turned and procured a key from a ring on the wall behind him. He pushed it across the wooden counter toward Baris. "Thank you." He reached toward his pocket, intent on paying the man with money as opposed to magic, but the proprietor shook his head. "Nah, don't worry. One night idn't going to break me. Go on, get the youngster someplace comfortable. I'll send up some food, too." Baris stiffened, his gaze darting to Deirdre. She was smiling sweetly at the old man, her dark eyes holding seduction...and magic. "Thank you again," Baris said, and picked up the key. He turned toward the staircase, and gestured for Deirdre to go ahead of him. Instead, she surprised him by shaking her head. "No, darling," she purred. "I'd best get to the apothecary and get that ointment the healer suggested for our baby's eyes. I'll be quick." She looked again at the old man. "Might you point me in the proper direction?"

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"It might be safer were I to fetch the medicine," Baris murmured, hoping he hid his annoyance. Not that it mattered. The proprietor was so enthralled with Deirdre, Baris doubted he heard a word Baris had said. "It's not far," the old man said. "Just a few doors down the street on the other side." "I won't be long then, darling," Deirdre said, then stood on tiptoe and kissed Baris on the cheek. She gave him a wink, and was out the door before he could say another word. Scowling, Baris climbed the stairs to the room. It was small, but clean, and Baris quickly pulled the shutters closed, plunging the room into semi-darkness. Still, he could see quite clearly, and suspected Sirab could as well. He placed the little boy on the bed, thinking the child would be exhausted from his ordeal, and would settle down quickly to sleep. But Sirab was far from exhausted, and without the constant battering of sunshine, now decided that he wanted to explore this new place. Baris watched with growing attachment as the child toddled about the room, examining everything within his reach. He mumbled softly to himself as he did so, and once or twice Baris thought he caught a word. It seemed that the child was methodically putting names on each object he encountered, as if to label them for further use. Finally though, the game tired, and Sirab turned to Baris, frowning. "Hungry," he stated, and held out his arms. Baris hesitated, wondering if the child was asking for food or blood. As far as he knew Sirab hadn't fed on blood since the previous morning. "Papa." The word came out as a tired whine. Baris sighed, and scooped the child into his arms, then settled with him on the lounge chair. He looked deep into Sirab's dark eyes, waiting for the child to make the first move, to indicate just what he wanted. Sirab stared back at him, obviously confused. Baris wasn't sure what to do, and held his wrist toward the boy. But Sirab pushed it away, and whimpered. "Hungry," he said again. 73

Relief was an unexpected emotion for Baris. His son was a Vector, he knew that. Still, he was not that comfortable with feeding the child blood. A knock on the door startled him until he remembered the proprietor had said he would send up some food. Baris smiled at Sirab. "There's your lunch." He set the little boy on the floor, and went to open the door. A young serving wench stood in the hallway, a heavily laden tray balanced on her hands. She glanced past Baris toward the dark room, a frown creasing her brow. "Are me lord's lamps out?" "No, no, they're fine. My son has an injured eye. The light hurts him." Baris reached for the tray. "Thank you. Your arrival was perfect timing. My son was just whining about being hungry." He turned and placed the tray on a table, then reached into his pocket for a few coppers to tip the woman. She shook her head. "No, thankee. Master says you're to be kept happy. No charge." She curtsied, and hurried away down the hall. Baris scowled, and closed the door. He turned to find Sirab already perusing the delicacies on the tray, and grabbed at the little boy before the entire tray was dumped on the floor. "Here, sit on this chair. Then you can reach easier." He placed the child gently on the cushioned chair, then stood back to watch him eat. How could he ever leave the child, now? Sirab was his son, a part of him. He sighed, and lowered himself to the edge of the bed, his heart missing his other two children. He hoped they were all right, that Anika had been able to gain Darius' trust and help. Still, he couldn't help but wonder what would happen to him as punishment for spiriting Deirdre away from the Lair. He again rubbed at his arm, remembering the words of the Sovereign that afternoon of his sentencing. "Since your Vector strength was the 'weapon' you used in committing these crimes against what proved to be innocent men, it seems only fitting that you lose that weapon. Henceforth, you will have that strength removed. You will find that your magic will also be diminished as a result of the implant. There is nothing I can do about that unfortunate side effect. I don't have to tell you what punishment using your magic as a weapon will bring forth, do I?" 74

Baris had shaken his head. He had heard all about having one's magic stripped from one. It was not something he would dare risk. He had received the implant, an innocuous looking bit of material embedded beneath the skin on his left arm. He had not believed even then that it could affect his superior strength. Not until he had tried to use it. He remembered that day as well. He had decided to test his strength on a bit of wood. Snapping a thick tree branch in half had once been an easy task. Snapping a man's neck even easier. But the implant easily prevented the first, and Baris was not about to test the second. His strength was gone, leaving him uncertain how to view himself as a Vector. He had not told Anika of his situation, prayed that there would never come a time that she or their children would need to rely on his strength. And he had been careful to keep his magic use to a minimum as well. Still, it was somewhat of a relief to know that he had been able to Spell himself, Deirdre and Sirab away from the Lair. At least he could do that much. He just hoped he wouldn't be called upon to do more.

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Chapter 11 Jaeger sighed and pulled his cloak tighter. There was nothing here to help him. If the Vector had been here, he had covered his trail nicely. The only thing remaining in the shed was the bloodstain on the weathered wood floor. Jaeger had not seen the victim; the constables had taken her away earlier. But he had heard the gossip. A young woman, known to prostitute herself in these parts, to be involved in the selling of hack. She had been found with her neck ravaged, the blood drained from her body. All the remained was the telltale stain on the floor. Jaeger's gaze again locked on the stain, and he started when Vail nudged him. "Come on," the young witch said quietly. "People are starting to whisper about our presence here." Jaeger glanced outside the shed to the small group of peasants gathered there. They were indeed staring at him, eyes narrowed with suspicion. They fell back a step as he exited the shed, Vail at his heels. He had assumed the attire of an official, hoping to allay questions but apparently his obvious interest in the death site was a little disconcerting for the villagers since the woman's body was already gone. Jaeger decided to play up his persona a little more. "So," he said, looking at the group, "did anyone hear anything? See anything?" They were quiet for a moment, then one grizzled old man spoke up. "I thought I heard a howling. Like a wolf gone too long without a meal. Sent chills up my back, it did." Jaeger grimaced, guessing the information was only shared to make the man a centerpiece of attention to his comrades. They all nodded in agreement, as if they too had heard the howling. Another man lifted a gnarled hand in the air. "But twasn't a wolf at all," he grumbled. "Really?" Jaeger turned to him. "What was it then?" "One of them heathen blood suckers, that's what it was!" Jaeger stiffened. "And you know this how?"

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The man grunted, and gestured toward the shed. "Been happen' around here lately. This girl idn't the first to be drained. No wolf did this." "Nope," another man piped in. "Wolves got into my brother's sheep once or twice. Din't look this. Not so neat. It's one of them bloodsuckers all right." A general murmur of alarm swept through the rapidly gathering crowd, and Vail laid a restraining hand on Jaeger's arm, his gaze on the peasants. His voice was cool, calm and reassuring when he spoke. "That will be fully investigated, but I think for now it would best not to spread possibly false rumors. No sense in everyone getting upset for no cause." His air of superiority and dismissal worked, for the crowd began to disperse, mumbling quietly. Jaeger clenched his jaw in irritation, but Vail quickly guided him away from the shed, and back towards town. Only when they were well away from the shed, hidden in the safety of a dark alley, did the young witch allow the Vector to stop. "Heathens? Bloodsuckers?" Jaeger growled, his voice low. "How dare they!" "Hold on," Vail said calmly. "They're uneducated and uninformed. Plus, they're frightened." Jaeger scowled, and swept his cloak tighter about his lithe frame, dropping the Illusion of the official. For a moment, he stood in the semi-darkness of the alley as a Vector – tall and proud – but he quickly drew another Illusion when he saw the disapproval in Vail's dark eyes. "Do you fear me, Vail?" he asked suddenly. Vail started. "Fear you? No! Why?" Jaeger hesitated. "But you did the first time we met, did you not?" Vail was quiet a moment, as if thinking back on their initial meeting. Jaeger remembered it clearly. He had saved the young witch's life, had given him Vector blood to keep him from dying. He often wondered if Vail cursed him because of it. "I think," Vail said slowly, "that the first time I met you, you were Illusioned as a mountain cat. Seconds later, you re-Illusioned as a rather large, and threatening,

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bear, quickly followed by a fire-spitting dragon. And you ask if I feared you? I'm not an idiot, Jaeger. You nearly had me wetting my britches." Jaeger stared, caught off-guard by the words. Laughter bubbled up inside him, and escaped in a soft chuckle. He cuffed Vail lightly on the back of the head. "You're good for me, Vail. Would that all of us serious, somber, dark-mooded Vectors have friends such as you." He shook his head, and sighed. "I need to return to the shed. Without you." "What?" Vail cried. "You can't! Why? What's there you haven't already seen?" "I don't know. But I do know that even the small amount of Vector blood that you carry was interfering with my ability to read whatever Vector magic was used there." It wasn't exactly the truth, but he didn't dare tell Vail of his true destination – the morgue. He wanted to investigate the woman's body, see if he could pick up any blood scent from it. And he guessed that Vail would never allow him to go off on such a risky venture alone. Even now he saw the argument rising in the young man's eyes, and he held up one hand as if to stop the flow of words. "Please, Vail. It won't take me long. I'll need to shift. I'll be quick. I promise. You can find a nice pub to wait in." "If you're going to be that quick, I'll just wait here," Vail grumbled. "You'll be more comfortable if you –" "I'll wait here," Vail interrupted, his gaze hard on Jaeger's. "Unless there's something you're not telling me." "No," Jaeger lied smoothly. He removed his cloak, and handed it to Vail. "I won't be long." Without waiting for another protest, he quickly shifted to a small house cat, and raced out of the alleyway. He slid beneath the boardwalk and made his way toward the morgue, hoping to find his way by the overheard conversations of earlier. But his sense of direction was scrambled by his new size, and he unexpectedly found himself on the banks of the river. Frustrated, he turned to retrace his steps, and froze. Fresh blood assailed his nostrils, mixed with the tar and grease of the docks upwind. Memories overwhelmed him. He had found Rhiannon in just such a place as this. Her blood had drawn him forward like a magnet. Just as this blood was doing 78

now. He crept along the banks, avoiding the slimy water that pulled at the ragged shoreline. He moved like a wraith, slipping in and out of piles of debris, empty cargo boxes, the filth that lined the river. A chill suddenly washed over him, so intense he flattened himself into the mud. A dark shape lifted from beneath the docks, took two steps, and winged into the darkening skies. Jaeger watched, his heart thudding. A Vector! He lay still, praying that the Vector wouldn't hone in on his own use of magic. He knew he could not take on a full Vector magic-wise. Luck was with him. The Vector seemed to have other things on his mind, else he was simply in no mood to confront Jaeger at this time. Jaeger watched him disappear to the east. It was several seconds before Jaeger remembered to breathe. When he did, the scent of blood was almost gone. Whoever the victim had been, he or she was dead, drained of their life force by the Vector winging silently away. Jaeger paused only a moment, then crept toward the lifeless body. It was a young boy, not more than ten. He lay like a wax doll, white and empty, beneath the wharf. A street urchin from the looks of his tattered clothing. Jaeger stole closer, noticing the violent tears on the boy's neck. This Vector was vicious. There was little doubt that it was the same Vector who had killed the woman in the shed. These were not normal feeding wounds. This was domination, meant to instill terror, to satisfy the lust of the Vector, physical and sexual. The boy bore evidence of that as well. It tore at Jaeger's heart, reminded him of his guilt over Vail, of those times he had not been able to separate his feeding from his sexual arousal. He sat in the darkness, the cold penetrating his body, his gaze on the child. Finally, he shifted back into a human form. It was a tight fit to remove the child from the beneath the wharf, but at last, Jaeger stood, the child cradled in his arms. He had no idea where he would go, what he would do, but he started walking back toward the alley he'd left Vail in. It didn't take long for others to notice him, and his grim cargo. He soon had a small following of river folk, although none challenged him, none asked him his destination. He had almost reached the alleyway, when a man's voice stopped him. 79

"Ey! You there!" Jaeger turned to face the constable hurrying his way. "The boy," he managed. "I found him. Beneath the docks. He's...he's dead." "I can see that." The constable sized him up, then bobbed his head at the youth. "He your son?" Jaeger looked back down at the white face, and shook his head. "No. I don't know who he is." "He's a little beggar," another man put in. "Seen him coupla times stealing fruit and bread from the market." He cocked his head at Jaeger. "You kill him for it?" Jaeger started. "Me? Of course not! I would never hurt a child!" The constable touched at Jaeger's clothing. "A bit fine to be in these parts. What were you doing near the docks?" "M'Lord is a merchant," Vail announced, appearing as if from nowhere. He strode toward Jaeger, placing himself between the Vector and the constable. "He is also a philanthropist. He oftentimes visits the docks, and the river people, to offer them lucrative positions on his boats. It's a shame that he had to have his visit marred by such a horrible finding as this. Are there no constables patrolling the riverside? No protection for the smallest, most innocent, of your city's citizens?" The constable stiffened, the muscles of his jaw tightening. "There are, M'Lord, but there are too few of us." He looked at Jaeger. "I am sorry that you had to be witness to this, M'Lord." He snapped his fingers toward one of the other men behind him. "Take the boy." "What will you do with him?" Jaeger asked at once, ignoring the magic Vail used now to placate the townsfolk. "He'll be buried in the homeless plots." "No." Jaeger's response was immediate, drawing a questioning frown from Vail. "Lookee that," a man suddenly said, pointing toward the dead child. "His neck. It's been ripped apart. Just like that girl the other night." The constable's eyes narrowed, and he leaned to inspect the boy closer. His gaze shifted back to Jaeger. "Where did you say you found him?" 80

"B...by the docks," Jaeger stammered, realizing for the first time how odd that really sounded. "And you just happened upon him?" "Yes," Jaeger answered truthfully. "I did." "And did you see anyone else?" Jaeger hesitated, then sighed. "I thought I did, but it was dark. It was only a vague shadow. I couldn't tell you if it was man or woman." "Or beast," a man put in, his voice just above a whisper. His gaze moved to Vail as if seeing him for the first time. "Ey, wasn't you the one up by that shed where the girlie was found?" Jaeger caught at his breath. The last thing they needed was to be considered suspects. He shook his head, leveling his gaze on the man, pulling forth his Vector magic, enhancing Vail's magic. "I think not," Jaeger said evenly. "My associate has been with me all day. You are mistaken." The man stared at him for a moment, then frowned, and rubbed at his grizzled chin. "So I am." Jaeger turned back to the constable. "I would like this boy to have a proper burial in the city cemetery. He will be given a headstone. I will take him to the morgue myself. Can you point me in the proper direction?" The official hesitated a moment, then jerked his thumb over his shoulder. "Back up that way, about five blocks. On the left. You'll see it." "Thank you." Jaeger tipped his head, and strode away, Vail trailing. It wasn't until they were well away from the crowd that Vail finally spoke. "What the hell were you thinking? We do not need this kind of attention, Jaeger!" Jaeger shot him a sidelong glance. "I should have left the boy there?" "Or course not! But what were you doing there in the first place? You told me you were going back to the shed, not to the river." "Must I explain all of my actions?" "Yes!" Vail shot back.

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Jaeger started at the venomous retort, then a smile puckered his lips. "Are you that afraid of your sister?" "I am, and if Rhiannon told me to look after you, then that's what I'm going to do! You apparently have not witnessed her temper." "Apparently not as you have," Jaeger agreed. He looked down at the child. "This was done by a Vector, there is no doubt of that. But it's unusual for a Vector to inflict so much damage. It's as if this man wishes to draw attention to himself." "Why would he want to do that?" Jaeger shrugged. "That I should also like to find out." He bobbed his head toward a pristine looking stone structure. "I think that must be the morgue. I am going to attempt to find the young woman as well." "And how will you do that?" Jaeger stopped and shifted the dead child to Vail's arms. "While you arrange for his headstone and burial, I will be searching out the young woman." Vail paled, swallowing hard. "Jaeg, I...I..." "You'll be fine." Jaeger handed the young man his purse of coins. "There is plenty of money there to pay for services for the child." He paused. "Pay for some new clothing as well, and have the boy attended to. He should not go to his maker looking as he does." Vail nodded numbly, and Jaeger slipped away. He slid into an alleyway and quickly shifted to small rodent. It didn't take him long to find a way into the morgue. He hesitated only briefly, using his Vector senses to locate the dead woman. Just moments later he was with her in the small room where she waited burial alone. She lay on a high bed, and knowing the risk, Jaeger quickly scaled the leg of the table. The wound looked enormous from his new perspective, and he sat studying it. It was almost identical to the tearing wound the young boy had sustained. But something else drew Jaeger's attention, and he crawled closer. Just above the vicious tear were two small bite marks, the usual mark of a Vector feed. Jaeger stared at them, perplexed. Why would the Vector bite first, then make another, larger wound?

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It made little sense. Unless...Jaeger sighed. Unless he was so high on the hack, he didn't know what he was doing. He started as the door to the room opened. Quickly, he slipped into the dead woman's hair, as the mortician carried the young boy to another bed. Vail trailed after him, his gaze flicking about the room obviously trying to spot Jaeger. Jaeger hurriedly crawled back down to the floor, where he made a quick dash toward Vail. "We'll do a nice job for you, M'Lord," the mortician said quietly. "The lad will look as if he just laid his wee head down to sleep. That's all." "Very good," Vail said. "And the headstone?" "It shall be carved as you requested." The mortician clucked his tongue. "Such a wee lad to end up so. Pity. Pity." "I do agree with that," Vail said, then started as Jaeger scampered up his pant leg toward his pocket. The mortician noticed at once, and reached out in an attempt to knock Jaeger aside, but Vail quickly stilled his hand. "Leave it be. It's just a wee mouse after all. Perhaps it contains the boy's soul and is only seeking freedom at last. I'll let it loose outside." He tipped his head at the mortician, and quickly left the room, Jaeger hunched down inside of his pocket.

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Chapter 12 Adan woke with a gasp, drenched in sweat and trembling. He stumbled from the bed, chagrined to see that it was only early evening. He had hoped for darkness, deep and complete. Still, he was hungry and restless. The girl's blood had not satisfied him. He needed to have a solid feeding, not just these little dalliances he had been surviving on. He splashed cold water on his face, then briskly towel-dried it. He ached, all of his muscles complaining bitterly about the long walk to and from the tavern district. Anger nipped at his senses. He didn't like being run out of his home, didn't like having to be wary of where he went, who he spoke to, what he did. He turned to the window, parted the curtain with one hand, and peered into the darkening streets. Damn! Life had been so much simpler before this other Vector had arrived to complicate things. Agitated, Adan again altered his appearance, and slipped into the hallway. A small touch of magic locked his door and he strode down the back staircase, and out into the alley. The servants had long since locked up, pulling the kitchen door closed and pitching the alleyway into darkness. But that was the way Adan preferred it. He moved with the sure grace of a cat, eager to be on his way. Voices stopped him. "Don't," a woman whispered, though there seemed to be no real defiance behind the word. A soft laughter followed, and the sound of wet kissing. Adan frowned, and crept closer until he could see the two young people who stood just out of reach of the streetlamp. The young man leaned into the woman, who was pressed against the inn's wooden wall. Even in the absence of direct light, her beauty stunned Adan. Thick hair fell to her waist, spiraling down in soft ringlets, wrapping about a frame that was ample in bust and thigh. She tipped her head back in silent laughter, exposing a long expense of moon-white skin from forehead to bosom. Adan could not take his eyes off the graceful curves of her neck and chin. He licked his lips almost unconsciously.

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"Here now," the woman mumbled. "If you get any closer, my father'll be making wedding plans." The man nuzzled against her neck, his hands tangling in her hair. His words were muffled when he responded, and Adan wasn't sure what he had said. But it brought more quiet laughter from the woman, and she leaned into the man's embrace. Adan drew back, his heart racing. Confusion raged through him at the strange sensations rushing through him. He wanted this woman, wanted to be as near to her as this strange man was. He wanted to be the one kissing her, touching her, feeling her warmth, the taste of her lips on his. His loins tightened and he closed his eyes in disbelief. Had last night's coupling re-opened this yearning in him? He had gone without women for months. Why now should he be so drawn to them? He forced himself to turn away, to walk to the far end of the alleyway, to put distance between himself and the couple. He had no right to interfere. Better that he attend to the business at hand – checking on the girl from last night, then finding some hack. Hack? He whirled, his gaze snapping back to the couple. That was it! One of them smelled of the powerful drug. That must be what had enticed him, made him hunger. It wasn't the girl at all. That thought made him feel better somehow. Slowly, he retraced his steps, just in time to see the two lovers leave the darkness of the alley and stroll back onto the boardwalks. With an inner curse, Adan followed. If he could find a source of hack here, he might not need to return to the tavern district at all. The thought intrigued him, teased him, kept him to the shadows. He followed the giggling couple down the dark streets to the livery. They slipped inside, Adan following. The young man stumbled to a stop with a gasp. "Damn!" he mumbled. "What's the matter?" the girl asked. The young man ran his hand over the ornately decorated carriage that was housed in the livery stalls. Adan recognized it as the one belonging to the portly gentleman at the inn. He frowned, his curiosity piqued. The girl moved forward.

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"Coo!" she breathed. "This is beautiful." She rose on tiptoe to peer through the small windows. The man snatched her away. "Don't touch it!" he snapped. She turned to him, hurt in her eyes. Eyes that were tipped at a sultry angle toward her brow line. Adan could scarcely contain his gasp of rapture. "I'm not thinking of pinching goods, Brede," she said softly. He let out a small sigh, then drew her close, nipping at her neck. "Just show me where the stash is, Jade." "I'll get it," she said. She turned and disappeared into the shadows. Adan could see her quite clearly with his Vector senses, and watched as she reached into a knothole in one of the wooden support beams. She pulled out a leather pouch and returned to Brede. He took the pouch with a smile, and kissed Jade soundly. "Perfect. Here." He opened the pouch and took out a pinch of hack leaves. She shook her head, copper ringlets swaying. "No, I don't need any. Not yet anyways. Let's wait until we get back to the room." Even with all of the other smells surrounding him, Adan smelled the hack aroma as the pouch was opened. He drew in a deep breath, his mouth watering. He clenched his fists, and waited. While he could quite easily overpower both Jade and Brede, he felt compelled to wait. Why, he didn't know. "Come on, Sweetness," Brede coaxed. "It's my gift to you. Take it." He cupped her chin, squeezing at her cheeks until her mouth opened. Jade winced as if in pain, but swallowed the drug. Brede didn't take any himself, and pocketed the leather pouch. He kissed her again, his hand roaming freely over her body. Adan could see the euphoria begin to spread over Jade's face as the hack took effect. Obviously, so could Adan. His hands went to her breasts, where he unlaced the ties on her dress. She protested with a soft cry. "What are you doing? Why don't we go back to the room?" Brede persisted, pushing her up against the rough wooden wall of a nearby stall. "It's more exciting here, Jade." 86

"It's cold," she argued. "And what if the liveryman returns?" "Exactly, Sweetness," he mumbled. "I like it here. I like the danger, the chance of being found. It's exciting. It excites me." He began to kiss her neck. "You excite me, Sweetness." Adan shifted uncomfortably. He felt like a voyeur. He should go, but couldn't seem to make his body obey. There was something wrong here, something he sensed, yet didn't understand. Plus, there was the hack to think of. He needed that pouch. Or he needed Jade's blood. He slid further into the darkness to wait. Jade tried to pull back, but there was no place to go as Brede pressed closer and tighter. His free hand sought to pull her long skirts up her thigh. Jade pushed his hand aside in a feeble attempt to stop him. "No, Brede," she whispered. "Not here. Please, let's go back to the room." She let out a soft, nervous giggle. "I'll be getting hay in places it doesn't belong." Brede brought his lips up to hers again, kissing her hard and long. When he pulled back, he cupped her chin with one hand. "There are ways to avoid that," he mumbled. He turned, leaned back against the wall, placed both hands on her shoulders and firmly pushed her down to her knees before him. "There, Sweetness. Do what you're so good at." Adan grimaced, not liking the commanding, yet patronizing tone Brede used. It was obvious to him that Brede was using Jade as a supplier and as a whore. For some reason, the mere thought infuriated him. Yet, had he not lain with a whore just hours earlier? What right did he have to condemn the young man? And Jade was a grown woman, capable of making her own choices. A choice she had made now, as Brede loosed his leathers. With only a resigned glance at his face, Jade did his bidding. His hands gripped her hair, his strength keeping her where he wanted her. His soft moans of ecstasy carried on the still air, and he tipped his head back, eyes closed as he neared his orgasm. His release came swift, but with little more than a sharp gasp. Still, he held fast to Jade, keeping her on the ground before him. Adan wondered if it was now a matter of ownership, of showing her who was in charge. After he had composed himself, allowed his breathing to slow, he pulled Jade to her 87

feet. "I have to go for tonight," he murmured, adjusting his leathers. He pressed several coins into her palm. "What's this for?" she asked, obviously startled. "Dinner." "But I thought –" "Not tonight, Jade," Brede interrupted. "That carriage belongs to my business partner. He'll be waiting. I'll be up half the night listening to his long-winded proposals. Get yourself something to eat, then go home. Get some sleep. You need it. You're looking haggard these days. I'll see you tomorrow night. Meet me in the same place outside the inn. Goodnight." He kissed her cheek, then without waiting for her to respond, he strode away. Jade stared after him in a daze, then let her gaze drop to the coins lying on her palm. Her fist closed over them, but she was too intoxicated from the hack to display any real emotion. Adan hesitated. Fury ran through him at Brede's abhorrent behavior. He thought about following the young man, making him answer for it. But just now, just now he had his own needs to answer to. No longer able to resist the call of the hack that he knew ran through Jade's blood, he stepped from the shadows. She gasped and backed away, suddenly seeming to be aware of her partial nudity. She clutched at her blouse, covering her breasts. "M'Lord?" she mumbled. "Excuse me. I...I was just..." "I mean you no harm, M'Lady," Adan said quietly. "Are you all right? A beautiful young woman such as yourself should not be out alone in such a dark and empty place." "I...I'm fine, M'Lord." Jade sidled along the stall wall, her gaze darting to the livery door. Not willing to let her escape, Adan stopped her with a firm grip on the upper arm. Jade let out a little gasp, her eyes meeting his. That was all the contact he needed to take control of her. With a small smile, he lowered his head and fed.

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Chapter 13 Baris sat slumped before the fire, staring absently into the flames. Sirab still slept in the huge bed behind him. But Deirdre had not returned, and despite his animosity toward the woman, he was worried. There were many things that could happen to a beautiful young woman in the city. He rose, and crossed the room to peer out the window – something he had done every few moments. Where was she? He wanted to go out and search for her, but he wouldn't leave Sirab. And the little boy needed his rest. He had been overly exhausted from his time on the road and it had taken Baris hours to get him to settle down enough to sleep. Now that he was, Baris didn't want to wake him. Damn you, Deirdre, he raged to himself and turned back to the fireplace. But before he could reseat himself, a key grated in the lock, and the door opened. Deirdre stepped inside, then stopped with a startled gasp. "You're awake early," she said, slipping her cloak off. "I never slept," Baris answered. "Where were you? I was expecting you to return last evening." She smiled at him, and crossed the room to the bed. "I had things to do." "Such as?" "Oh really, Baris, it's not your concern." She stretched. "I think I'll take in a bath before Sirab wakes. If I know him, he'll be famished. Problem is, I have no blood to give to him. Perhaps you could think on that while I bathe." He watched her go into the adjoining bath, anger boiling inside him. But she was right. Her business was not his. Still, that did not stop him from wondering. He looked toward the bed as Sirab squirmed, then mumbled, and sat up. For a second the little boy frowned at his surroundings, then he let out a piercing wail of terror. Baris hurried to comfort him. "It's all right, Sirab. Hush." He gathered the little boy into his arms, and brushed the dark hair from his forehead. "I'm here. You're safe. Hush." He crooned to the child, furious that Deirdre had completely ignored Sirab's cries. 89

Sirab quickly calmed, and nestled against Baris' chest. Baris looked down at the dark curls, and tears unexpectedly appeared. He missed his own children, Thale and Aysha. And he missed his wife. By the Sovereign! How he wanted to see them all, to hold them. But for now, he could not leave here. Could not leave Sirab and Deirdre to their own devices. "Papa," Sirab whispered. "Hungry." "For?" Sirab looked up at him. "Blood." Baris felt his heart quicken. He took a deep breath. He knew that Vector mothers fed their children only human blood. He had no idea where Deirdre had gotten the blood she had given Sirab earlier, and he didn't want to know. He had to believe that Darius had ways to procure the blood without killing the donor. "Papa," Sirab said again, and a little whine escaped him. "Hungry." "I know. Let me see what I can do." He set Sirab back down on the bed, and went to the bathroom. "Deirdre?" She gave a soft, sleepy moan. "What is it, Baris?" "Our son needs to feed. Do you have anymore of that blood you brought from the Lair?" "No. You'll have to make other plans I'm afraid. Go away." Baris stiffened at the dismissal. Instead of backing off, he pushed the door open and strode into the bathroom. Deirdre looked up at him, neither startled nor embarrassed. She had piled her long, dark locks into a loose bun on the top of her head, and curly tendrils had escaped to frame her face. Baris could smell bath salts, and his memory abruptly jolted him. How many times had he had made love to Deirdre in the bath? Surrounded by the silky softness of scented water? It had been one of their favorite places, and even now the memory aroused him. Deirdre noticed at once, and gave him a sultry smile. "Care to join me?" she purred. Baris swallowed hard, and took a step backward. He would have answered her but at that moment Sirab toddled into the room. 90

"Mama?" he whined and made his way to the tub. "Hungry." A sudden thought raced through Baris, and he stepped toward the boy. He quickly stripped the boy's clothes, and before Deirdre could move, he lowered the child into the warm water. "There you go, Sirab. Your mama will feed you." She gasped, glaring at him. "How dare you? You surely don't expect me to –" "What?" Baris interrupted. "Be a mother?" He turned and strode from the room, satisfaction stirring a small smile. He added wood to the fire, then left the room to get breakfast. He knew he would have to feed soon as well, and wondered where he would go. He would most certainly not feed on Deirdre. Never again would he take that torturous path. He would much rather take his chances in the streets of Timmora. He only hoped he could scent the hack before he fed. The mere thought of an accidental ingestion left him trembling. He rapped on the wooden counter in the small dining hall. The same wench who had brought him his meal the previous night appeared from the kitchen. She gave him a wide smile. "Morning, M'Lord. You'll be wantin' breakfast then?" "Yes. What would you suggest?" She giggled. "I would suggest the kitchen up the block." Baris started, then chuckled at the joke. "I was quite satisfied with the fare of last night. Perhaps biscuits, tea, sausage and eggs would suffice for this morning." "Aye. And for the wee one? I've got some sweet rolls just comin' from the ovens." "That would be perfect. Thank you very much." He started to turn away, then stopped. "Tell me something. My companion, did you see her with anyone last night?" The girl shrugged, her face puzzled. "Nah. She left alone. Idn't she your wife?" Baris paused. He couldn't remember exactly what Deirdre had told the proprietor the previous night. "No. No, she isn't." "Ah, but the boy belongs to you both, eh?" There was no mistaking the girl's sudden interest in Baris. Baris felt a flush creep over his cheeks. "Yes, he does. Good day." He turned away, and quickly returned to his room. 91

Deirdre had finished her bath and dressed, and was brushing out her hair before the mirror. Sirab lay on the bed, half-dozing. Baris glanced toward Deirdre's neck, relieved to see two small bite marks on the pale skin. At least she hadn't turned her own child away when he needed her. "I've ordered breakfast," he said. "It should be here in a few moments time." He sat on the bed near Sirab. "Something special for you." The little boy grunted, stuck his thumb into this mouth, and pulled the covers closer about his head. Baris frowned, directing his words at Deirdre. "What's wrong with him?" Deirdre glanced at the boy, then turned back to the mirror. "Nothing. He's just sleepy. Why does anything have to be wrong?" She put the brush back on the dresser. "You worry too much, Baris." Baris was quiet a moment, his gaze on the silver brush. "Where did you get that?" "I bought it." "With what? I thought you said you didn't have any money." She gave him a sly smile. "I got some." Anger roared through Baris, and he crossed the room in two strides. He had Deirdre by the wrists, and pulled against him before he even realized what he was doing. She looked up at him, more amused than frightened. "And what's this all about?" she murmured. He released her as if he had been stung. Conflicting emotions tore through him. Why should he care how she got the money? Why should it matter if she had been paid for services with another man? Yet, it did. He spun away from her, snatched up his cloak and headed for the door. "I'll be back later," he snapped, and stormed from the room. His steps were fast and furious, taking him from the inn, out into the streets before he realized he had not Illusioned. Gasps and squeals of alarm brought him up sharply, and he quickly slipped into the nearest alleyway. But his gawkers followed him there, and he quickened his pace, hoping to elude them. "It's one of them blood eaters!" someone screamed. 92

"Get him!" Baris broke into a trot, heading toward the other end of the alley. "He's going out the other side!" "Cut him off! Kill him!" The words sent ice through Baris' veins, and without a second thought, he shifted, claiming the form of a bird. While he had hoped for something strong and swift, he got only a robin, thwarted again by the implant. Cursing mentally, he winged out of the alleyway, swooped over the buildings and toward the thick forest surrounding Timmora. He didn't stop until he was well hidden within the dark foliage. Then he rested on a thick tree limb high above the ground, chastising himself soundly. He had never in his entire life forgotten to shift. If he had wanted humans to see him for whom he was, it was always of his own choosing. Now? He shuddered, his feathers ruffling. How could Deirdre still have influence over him? Cause him to make such a blunder? He considered returning to the Lair, letting Darius know her whereabouts. But there was Deirdre's nasty spell to think about. Baris was not about to lose any of his children. No, he would have to play out Deirdre's game, get her to drop the Spell about Aysha, before he could take his revenge. Revenge? The word brought another shudder. It wasn't likely he would ever be able to get revenge on her. She held his emotions too completely. That thought infuriated him. He spread his wings, and dropped toward the ground, completing his shift to a fox before he hit. He darted into the brush, using his keen sense of smell to locate dinner. He was famished, and it was hard to think on an empty stomach. Plus, he needed blood. Animal blood would have to suffice until he could find something else. He had just made a kill of a small possum, when his Vector senses were jolted by the passing presence of another Vector. He crouched low to the ground, immediately warding himself against detection. If the Vector was searching, the Ward would do no good, but perhaps he was only passing by. A few moments later the sensation passed, and Baris relaxed. For a moment, he sat still, then looked at his kill. He was no longer hungry. He needed to return to Timmora. He needed to watch over Sirab 93

until he could figure out a way to get the boy away from Deirdre. And then there was the problem of helping Jaeger. That promise still burned in Baris' mind. His gaze drifted skyward. The Vector whom had passed by, could this be the Vector Jaeger sought? Had he left Erster for new feeding grounds? Perhaps Baris could watch over Sirab and help Jaeger at the same time. Provided he could keep himself from being discovered. Well, if he used no Vector magic from here on out, he could easily avoid detection. But how then, to meld into the population of Timmora? He supposed he could ask Deirdre to shield him...no. He discarded that thought almost at once. If she used magic, she would need to be bled more frequently. And he didn't want to risk that close of a relationship again. In fact, he wondered why she had yet not voiced concern about being bled. He didn't think the small amount Sirab took would have done much to help Deirdre. Questions pounded at his mind as he turned his steps toward Timmora.

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Chapter 14 Adan rolled over in bed, tangling with Jade's long hair. He opened his eyes, blurred and gritty, to stare at the nude body of the young woman next to him. She shifted slightly, but did not wake. Adan paused, then rose to put more wood on the fire. The room was cold and he hurried through the task, before returning to the bed and Jade's warm form. He ran his hands over her smooth skin, along her stomach, up to her breasts and finally to cup her face. A gentle kiss woke her, breaking his spell. She looked up at him with a mixture of surprise and puzzlement. Obviously she had been so intoxicated from the hack the previous night, that she remembered little of coming here, of making love with him. The thought was annoying to Adan, but he pushed it aside and kissed her again. "M'Lord," she whispered. "Lord is a pretty formal title for one lying beside you," Adan told her. "Call me by my given name of Adan." He wondered if now was a good time to relax his Illusion, to let her see just who she lay with. "Adan," she repeated as if trying to remember the name. "Mine is –" "Jade," he interrupted. "You...you know me?" "I do now," he retorted quietly. She glanced toward the window. Light of late-morning seeped past the heavy shades, and Jade let out a little gasp. "Oh, hell! I'm late! I'll be flogged for sure!" She made to leap from the bed, but Adan restrained her. "You have no place to go," he told her. "But I do, M'Lord! I'm the maid over at the inn. I...I..." She glanced about the room as if seeing it for the first time. A little squeal of terror escaped her. "This inn! Oh hell! If I'm caught with one of the customers...oh, M'Lord, please, let this be between us. Please! I'll lose my position here. I'll be punished!'

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Adan shushed her with one long finger on her full lips. "You'll not be needing that position, Jade. You're with me now. There'll be no flogging either." She stared up at him as if he was mad. "With you? As...as your whore?" Her face reddened in anger, and she jerked away from him. "No! I made a mistake! One night! That's all, M'Lord! And it wasn't me! It was the hack talk—" She gasped, the color draining from her face as rapidly as it had come. "I...I..." "That's all right, Jade," he said calmly. "I know about the hack. I saw you selling it to Brede." Jade sucked in her breath, scrambling from the bed. For a moment, she seemed unaware of her nudity, before she snatched up a blanket and wrapped it about her. "Brede? I...I don't know anyone named Brede." Adan couldn't help but smile. "Really? He seems to know you quite well." Jade's eyes went wide. "I...I have to go!" She looked about frantically for her clothing. Adan leaned on one elbow, watching her. "They're not here." "What?" "Your clothes. They're not here." "What?" she repeated, then frowned. "My clothes aren't here? Where are they?" "Don't you remember?" he teased, enjoying her discomfiture. Jade rubbed at her forehead. "No," she mumbled. "They're in the stalls." "The stalls?" Her voice squeaked in disbelief. "But I..." "You left them there. You said you were too warm to wear them any longer." "No! I...how did I get...well..." She gestured at the room. Adan grinned. "It wasn't easy." It was a lie, but he was having a good time tormenting her. He loved the way her skin had pinked, the way her green eyes had grown large, the way she held the blanket close about her ample form. It made him yearn for her, want to take her and hold her close again, to wile away the day making love to her. She sank down on the bed, shaking her head. "I don't remember any of it." 96

Adan sat up and gently massaged her neck and shoulders. "Don't worry," he told her. "No one saw you. I was very careful. No one knows you're here. Just you..." He kissed her neck softly, "...and me." He kissed her again. "I want to ask you something. Who is Brede? Why were you giving hack to him?" Jade stiffened, though she didn't try to stand. "I wasn't." He kissed her neck again, running one hand lightly along her back. "You were. I saw you. You took a pouch out of a hole in a beam. You gave it to him. But he gives you nothing in return." "He does!" Jade cried, rising. She whirled to face him. "He loves me! And I love him! And I shouldn't be here right now!" She shook her head, tears glistening in her eyes. "I've betrayed him." The tears ended Adan's teasing. "You've betrayed no one, Jade. He was using you. Can't you see that?" "Using me? How? By taking advantage of me when I was strung on hack?" The bite in the words cut through Adan, and set his anger smoldering. He glared at her, then rose, not caring about his own nudity before her. He hesitated only a second, then allowed his Illusion to fade. Jade gasped, stumbling backward. "You're a Vector!" Adan's answer was a sarcastic smile. "Then, you..." Jade's hand flew to her neck. A sob escaped her, sending her tears streaming down her pale cheeks. "I'm damned then!" The words carved into Adan's soul. "Damned?" he breathed, his anger mounting. "Damned?" Her sobs increased, her chest heaving with each strangled breath. She shrank away from him in terror. Adan stared at her, suddenly overwhelmed with guilt. For the first time in his long life, he felt empathy toward one of his victims. He didn't want her to cry because of him. He couldn't stand the thought that she saw their night together as one of slavery and damnation. The thought tore through his heart, left him weak-limbed and shaking. He sank down on the bed, holding to the bedpost with one hand. 97

"Go," he said softly. "Go? But I...you..." "You're free to leave, Jade," he interrupted. "Your clothes are in the bathroom." Her gaze shifted to the adjacent room, then back to him as if trying to ascertain the truth. Finally, she stumbled toward the small bathing room. Adan slipped on his robe, and sat down in a chair to wait. It didn't take Jade long to dress, and she reappeared, her face still wet with her tears. Adan averted his gaze. "Go," he said again. He heard her move toward the door, heard the lock thrown, and finally looked up at her. She was watching him. "You'll bring me back, won't you?" she whispered. Adan paused. "I don't know." Jade drew a deep, resigned breath, and slipped out of the room, pulling the door shut quietly. Adan sat for a long time, staring at the closed door, trying to understand the strange emotions that raged through him. He would call her back, he knew that. He wanted to be with her again, and not just for the offering in her blood. There was something about her, something he had never felt before. But, he thought, I won't possess her. I won't hypnotize her again. She will come to me because it is what she chooses, not because of my power of persuasion. Still, that wouldn't help his need for blood. Or hack. He rose and walked to the window to peer outside. The bright daylight hurt his eyes and he let the shades fall back into place. He was hungry, but he didn't want to go to the inn's dining hall. He might he would see Jade there. Or Brede. That thought perked him up. Yes, perhaps Brede was the one he needed to see. Brede would tell him all he needed to know. With a smile, Adan rose and went into the bathroom to get bathed and dressed.

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Chapter 15 Vail stared at Jaeger's inert form for a long moment, then sighed. No amount of probing or prodding had managed to wake the Vector. Vail suspected he was exhausted from the two shifts he had done the previous day. Well, he decided, better to let him sleep now then be too tired later when his strength might matter. With another sigh, Vail flung his cloak about his shoulders and slipped from the room. Even without Jaeger, he could do some investigating on his own. One thing he wanted to check on was the headstone for the urchin. He wanted to make sure his money, or Jaeger's money to be more precise, had been used on a headstone and not just to line the mortician's pocket. The air outside was chill, holding the promise of rain, and Vail hunkered further into his cloak. His stomach rumbled hungrily, but he assuaged it with promises of a large lunch, and stepped off the porch. His path to the cemetery was unhurried, and unchallenged. But then, he had suspected no less. After all, what interest could anyone have in a slightly built, plain looking fellow? Sometimes Vail wished he had the commanding appearance of a Vector, able to make others cringe and gasp in awe. Still, what little Vector blood he did carry gave him a strength that surprised others when compared to his small stature. He stopped before the iron gates of the small cemetery. His gaze flicked over the tall, gnarled trees that bordered the cemetery, at the various sized headstones that lurked like cold fingers pointing toward the heavens. Vail shivered as a chilly gust of wind swirled about his ankles, and sent one side of the gate creaking gently inward. Perfect, Vail thought. Creaky gates, spooky trees, and now a wind that smelled of death. He thought of turning back, but forced himself onward. There were several newer looking graves, and he investigated those first. Beloved Husband; Devoted Wife; Little Angel. Those were the ones that bothered Vail the most. The children. Taken from life so early, before they had experienced more than pain and suffering. Like the little urchin Jaeger had found. Vail wondered what the boy's life had been like prior to his death. From the stench of his clothing, the bones 99

nearly protruding through skin, Vail didn't think the urchin's life had been an easy one. At least now he was free from mortal suffering. Vail had to believe that one so young couldn't be turned aside from heavenly eternity. He found the boy's grave, tucked back well away from the more prominent citizens of the city. Even in death, the boy was relegated to second best. It wasn't fair. Vail wished he had brought flowers, something to place on the grave, to brighten it, make it stand out amongst the others. Instead, he knelt beside it, then leaned back on his heels. The stonemason had done a good enough job, he supposed. There was no name, only Boy and the date of death. Vail stared at the gravestone for a long moment, his insides churning with anger. This Vector needed to be found, needed to be brought to justice, needed to account for his sins. And just as quickly as those thoughts came, so did shame. Had Baris done any less than this Vector? Vail's thoughts went to another grave, a youth buried in Timmora. While Baris had not killed Antyn, he had certainly played a part in the youth's death. And shouldn't he have been punished for that death? Yet, Vail had fought the hardest to keep Baris from punishment, and he had succeeded. As far as he knew, the only punishment Baris suffered was his own self-recrimination. With a sigh, Vail straightened, then smiled as a thought came to him. He strode from the cemetery towards the stonemason. He found the man just starting work on another headstone. "Morning," he greeted. "Mornin', sir." The stonemason obviously recognized him, and frowned. "Is there a problem, sir?" "No, no problem. I was wondering if you might be able to add something to that stone I had you carve last eve?" The stonemason glanced toward the cemetery across the road, and squinted. "It's already been placed, sir. It'd be a cost to have it dug up and moved. Can't move it myself. Too heavy. Have to hire someone." "Could you not work on it where it is?" 100

The man hesitated, then spat a stream of tobacco into a nearby spittoon. "Could. Still have to be toppled. Be costly, sir. I'd have to close up shop here to work there. Could lose some customers." Vail kept his irritation to himself. "I'll pay. Two golds if you'll do as I ask, and quickly." The stonemason's eyes lit up and he straightened, already reaching for his tools. "It'll be done, sir! Just tell me what you want on there." Vail paused, drawing a slow breath, his gaze on the grave in the distance. "A lamb. A wee little lamb." "A lamb, sir?" The man frowned in confusion. Vail looked back at him. "Yes, a lamb." He took a gold from his pocket and handed it to the man. "The other gold after I have approved the work. Good day, sir." Without waiting for a response, he turned and strode away. It took several blocks before he could regain his composure. Silly, he thought, how that lamb could still stir emotions so many years after its death. The animal had been his pet and someone ruthless and brutal had murdered it. Just as the boy had been murdered by the same. It seemed only fitting that the boy should be directed to find heavenly consolation with Vail's beloved little lamb. And Vail suspected the lamb would be just as thrilled to have a youngster to romp and play with once again. Vail took a deep shuddering breath, brushed at his eyes, and turned the corner. He supposed he should return to the inn, but his present mood wouldn't allow it. He needed time to himself, time to reflect, and once again try to come to some understanding of why Deirdre would choose to purposely hurt a mere child by killing his pet. He climbed the stairs to the nearest eatery, and found a bench out of the way. A serving wench came forward at once, a smile on her face. A smile that did not seem to reach her green eyes, which held only wariness. "What would it be this morning, M'Lord?" she asked. Vail shrugged, frowning. There was something about her, something that pulled at his senses, but he couldn't put his finger on it. His gaze slid over her pale skin, her 101

full lips, to the thick dark hair tied in a loose plait at her back. A white scarf was wrapped about her neck as if she found the room too cold, even though it was quite warm and stuffy. Vail's gaze rested for a long moment on the scarf. Too long. She reached up self-consciously and touched it, as if to reassure herself it was still there. "M'Lord?" she prompted. Vail started, regaining his control. He smiled, looking into her eyes. "Yes, I'm sorry. I was lost in thought. What would you suggest?" She hesitated before answering. "To be honest, sir," she murmured, "our cook took ill. I'm the maid here, and I'm not that handy in the kitchen." She glanced over her shoulder toward the portly man behind the serving counter. "I might suggest tea and toast. At least that I can do without repercussions." Vail chuckled. "I like honesty in a woman. Very well, tea and toast then. Lightly buttered. A man has to watch his weight." The words seemed to startle her, and a tentative smile touched at her lips. "You're but a youth. You've a few years yet before you need to start watching what you eat." She patted his shoulder and left. Vail scowled down at the wooden table. Try as he might he could never seem to come across as anything more than a youth. He shook his head and peered out the dirty window. What did it matter anyway? He had his little beauty at home, and she didn't seem to mind one bit his youthful state and lack of breeding. Just the thought of his new bride sent shivers up his spine, and brought a full smile to his face. He relished the thought of returning home to her. He was so engrossed in his fantasies of his homecoming that the crash and shout from the kitchen startled him to his feet. There were only a few other patrons in the dining room, and though they looked up, none of them made a move to investigate. Vail, on the other hand, darted into the kitchen without thinking on his actions. He slid to a stop with a gasp. The serving wench stood near the cook stove, one hand to her cheek, the other at her neck. Her employer, the man Vail had seen at the counter, stood just paces away, his pudgy face red with anger. Tendrils of smoke curled into the hot air from two blackened chunks of bread that now lay on the floor. 102

The proprietor spun to Vail. "Out! This is not your concern!" "It's only bread," Vail managed. "And it was mine." "I don't give a rat's ass whose it was!" the man raged. "This whore can't even manage that much." Vail stiffened at the vile words, his gaze darting to the woman. Her face had gone milky white, and her hand slid from her neck. Vail gasped in sudden recognition. "I'm not a whore," the woman said quietly. "No? Then explain them nuzzle marks on your neck! What you do on your time is your business, but when it makes you late to work, it becomes mine! Pack up! You're through here!" He tossed the scarf at her, and stormed from the room. The woman stood very still for a long moment, then broke into soft sobs. Vail paused, then crossed the room. He picked up her scarf, and held it out to her, his gaze still on the marks at her throat. She sniffed, and dabbed at her eyes. "I'm not a whore," she said again. "I didn't think you were," Vail told her. "Come on, let me walk you home." She nodded, gave a shuddering sigh, and took her scarf from him. He linked her arm through his and led her from the building. They took the back entrance, through an alleyway toward the main street. For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Finally, she did. "My name's Jade," she said. "I apologize for ruining your breakfast." "No matter." He shrugged. "I'm not that hungry anyway. What about you? Have you eaten yet this morning?" She shook her head. "No, I...I was late this morning. It was my fault. I...I deserve this." Vail looked at the imprint of the man's hand on her cheek. "No, you didn't deserve this. Everyone has late mornings. I've certainly had my share." "A man is allowed to." Vail snorted. "Why should a man be allowed any more than a woman?"

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"That's just the way it is." She sighed. "A man can bed whomever he wants, however often he wants, and be called only a scoundrel. But a woman? A woman makes one mistake and she's branded for life as a whore." "Branded? I don't think you're branded." He paused a moment, quite aware of what the marks were from. But it was obvious that Jade wanted him to believe they were only the marks left by an amorous lover. He decided to play along. "The marks will be gone in a few days time. No one will be any the wiser. Besides, just because you have marks, doesn't mean you let your intended get much past your neck." Jade looked over at him in outright surprise. "And you know this how? By being stopped a few times yourself?" Vail felt the color rush to his face. "I'm married!" he blurted, as if that would explain everything. Jade actually laughed, a delicious sound that dispelled the gloom from the air. "And I take it your wife has been so branded only from the neck up?" Vail rolled his eyes, changing the subject. "Did you say you were hungry?" She laughed again. "Are you new in town? I've not seen you before." "Oh, so you know everyone here?" "Most of them, at least in these parts. The inn I work...worked at...is one of the better ones. And the cook can actually pull off a decent meal, unlike me." "You burned toast," Vail teased, with a laugh. "Were you that tired? Or do you really not know how to cook at all?" "Both, I'm afraid." She stopped suddenly, and turned to face him. "What do you know of Vectors?" The question stunned him, and he fell back a step. At once, Jade again assumed the strained smile she'd worn at the inn, and turned away. Vail stopped her. "Why do you ask?" She swallowed hard, but did not answer. Vail hesitated then gestured to her neck. "Did a Vector do that?" She gave a slight nod, and lowered her gaze. "What will I do?" she whispered. "I'm damned for all eternity. I might as well end it here and now. My soul is gone." 104

"No!" Vail took hold of her by both arms and turned her to face him. He thought for a moment about showing her his own marks, hidden beneath his magic, but decided against it. "You're not damned. The Vector holds nothing of your soul." She looked up at him, wild despair in her green eyes. "But he's commanded me, bade me to be with him. My boss was right. I am no more than a whore now." She covered her face with her hands and sobbed into them. Vail hesitated, then took her into his arms. She collapsed against him, her body shuddering with her grief. It was many long moments before she was composed enough to push away from him. "Lying with one man does not make you a whore," Vail told her. "Vectors have magic. He used that on you to persuade you to do as he wished. He is more than a scoundrel. He is reprehensible." Jade wiped the tears from her face, and studied him a moment. "Then you know something of them?" "I do. But they are not all this way, Jade. Some are quite decent folks. There is evil in every race of being, and there is good." "Good?" Jade frowned, her hand again straying to her neck. "What good can there be of this?" Vail sighed, and took her by the arm, once again moving forward. "Let me buy you breakfast and I'll explain." She nodded and together then walked the streets until Jade pointed to a small eatery. "That's a good place to eat." "Perfect. I'm starved." She looked at him sideways. "I thought you said you weren't that hungry." "I wasn't. Then. Now, I am." He grinned and led her up the two wooden steps to the small dining hall. There weren't many people inside, and Vail chose a seat near the window, where the morning sunshine could spill onto the table. Jade sat opposite him, and clasped her hands before her. The serving wench arrived with a smile of recognition.

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"So, Jade, you got yourself another man, eh?" she teased. "This one's a cutey. He's a keeper." She reached out to tweak Vail's cheek. He drew back, startled and slammed his head against the high wooden bench back. Jade giggled, although a degree of uncertainty lay in her green eyes. "Stop that, Mara. He's only a friend." "Your words say that, but those love marks on your neck say quite another," Mara said. Jade flushed, and quickly retied her scarf about her neck. She gave a forced smile. "My heart is still secure with Brede. You know that." Again Vail was startled. Brede! He knew that name. Jaeger had told him that Brede was the man selling hack, the man who apparently had ordered the beating of the youth Jaeger had bought from. And now, here was Jade, pledging her love to the man. A chill crept up Vail's spine. His gaze shot over the dining hall as if Brede would pop out of the shadows to beat him to a pulp. If the man was so possessive over his sellers, Vail didn't think he'd take too kindly to another man having breakfast with his lover. "Maybe I should go," Vail said quietly. "I don't want to cause any trouble between you and Brede." "No!" Jade cried at once. She reached across the table to grip his hand. "It won't cause any problems, Vail. Brede knows that I love him, and only him." Mara giggled, her gaze on Jade's hand. "He might be getting' some competition here, mightn't he?" Jade jerked her hand back as if she'd been burned. "No! Mara, stop it!" She swung her gaze back to Vail. "It's fine, really. And you did promise to explain certain things to me, remember?" There was a quiet desperation in her voice, a pleading that the empath in Vail couldn't ignore. She was terrified. But of whom? The Vector who commanded her? Or Brede?

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Chapter 16 The dining hall was almost deserted by late afternoon. Only a few older patrons slouched at their tables, nursing their hot drinks. Adan ordered a cup of tea, settled into a booth and scowled. It was almost noon, and evening seemed to be rushing toward him. Evening. When Jade would meet with Brede yet again. The thought sent angry jealousy coursing through Adan, and he rose so abruptly one of the old man let out a gasp of surprise. Adan shot him one venom-filled glance, then strode from the room. The air outside was crisp, only adding to Adan's foul mood. He was cold, and getting colder by the moment. He needed to feed, preferably on someone using hack. His thoughts drifted to Jade, and he forced them aside. No, not her. He had promised himself that next she came to him, it would be of her own volition. Yet, just the thought of her, of her warm, soft skin, sent tingles shooting through him, set his body responding in an embarrassing way. He wanted her, there was no denying that. And he couldn't have her. Anger nipped at him, and he pulled his cloak tighter, trying to stop the trembling that claimed him. He increased his pace, his steps sure and direct. He needed to escape this part of town, needed to return to the sordid areas he used to prowl. The thought actually disgusted him for the first time. And, again, only added to his dark mood. It took him less than an hour to walk the distance to the slums. He slipped into a back alleyway and Illusioned himself as an old man, bent and withered with age. He had found that usually drew the 'meal' to him, rather then him having to search someone out. The old and the weak were fair prey here. He snorted with disdain, picked up a discarded liquor bottle, and shuffled down the alley. It didn't take long. He heard the approach of several from behind. He did not turn, or make any indication that he knew they were they, yet he tested the air with his senses. Damn! Not one of them had used hack recently, although he knew they carried it. He spun toward them, his gaze raking over four wiry, young men. They sauntered forward, secure in their numbers and age. 107

"Hey, old man," one of them said. "What do you have there?" He gestured at the bottle Adan clutched. "Empty," Adan slurred, holding the bottle up. "What about your pockets? Those empty, too?" Adan shrugged, just wishing the youth would go away. He wasn't in the mood to play games this morning. He tensed as three of the youth moved forward. "I don't have any money. I don't have anything. Go away." "Go away?" the youth repeated, grinning. "But we only just got here." "You got hack?" Adan suddenly asked, throwing them off-guard. The youth paused in their approach, glancing back at the one who had spoken. He was obviously the leader of this small pack. He frowned in suspicion. "And if I did?" "I'd want it." The man started, obviously surprised by the answer. "And I suppose you'd want me to give it to you as well?" He laughed out loud, joined by his comrades. "On the contrary," Adan said. "I'd want you to take it." Again, the youth was startled. For a moment, he said nothing, then his face hardened into a scowl. "I tire of your stupid words," he said, and flicked his hand at his friends. "See what he's got." They moved forward, eager to start their day with an easy victory. Adan took them on, just as eager to work off his anger. He swung out with the bottle, catching his first attacker on the side of the head, bloodying him. The youth staggered from the impact, and collapsed to his knees. The other two youth surged forward. Adan grabbed the first one to reach him, picked him up bodily and hurled him against his friend. Both tumbled to the ground, rolling in the filth and excrement there. Adan reached down, gripped one man in each hand, and tossed them easily into a pile of rotting garbage alongside the wall. The leader stared in outright astonishment, but recovered quickly. A flash of silver sparkled as he whipped out a dagger. "You've gone too far, old man," he snapped.

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"Have I?" Adan returned, leveling his gaze at the youth. It took only a second for the young man to fall under his hypnotic spell. "Tell your friends here that they need to leave. We have business to conduct." The young man nodded numbly, his words for his companions, though his gaze never left Adan's face. "Go on. Get. All of you. I'll join you in a moment." The man with the head wound protested weakly. "But, Gil, you –" "Go!" Gil snapped. "You'd best do as he says," Adan added. The three men staggered to their feet, and stumbled away, muttering under their breath. Adan waited until he was sure they were well away, then beckoned to Gil. "Come with me." He turned, secure in his knowledge that Gil would follow, more secure in the knowledge that Gil would never even think of using the dagger he still clutched. He led the young man down the alleyway, to another. There in the semi-darkness, he wordlessly encouraged Gil to ingest some of the hack he carried. Only after Adan saw the glazed look of euphoria in the young man's eyes, did he allow his magic to relax. He reached out, gripped the young man by the back of the neck, and pulled him close. He hadn't realized how hungry he was, or how agitated, until he began to feed. Once he started, he couldn't stop. He drank, pulling the boy's life fluid from him, reveling in the intoxicating effects of the hack in the blood. He was aware of the youth sagging in his grip, but ignored it. Only when the boy became a dead weight in his grip, did Adan stop. He drew back, gazing into Gil's blank stare. Slowly, he let the youth fall to the ground. For a long moment, he stood over the limp form, then bent and felt for a pulse. It was there. Weak, but there. Just like the girl. He straightened, then turned and hurried away. He changed his Illusion as he neared the end of the alley, wondering where Gil's companions had gone. Although the blood and the hack had satiated one desire, Adan was now roiling with another. Guilt. For the second time in as many days, he was feeling guilt at what he had done. The thought infuriated him, set him to a frantic pace. He strode down the dirty streets, silently daring anyone to cross his path. How 109

could this be happening? First, Jade had caused emotions long suppressed to spring forth. Now this. And to top it off, there was another Vector in town. Adan had no delusions about the reason. Someone had been sent to investigate him. He doubled his fists, digging his nails into the palms of his hands. But the pain only served to increase his upset. He rounded a corner, and turned his steps toward the forests that loomed outside of Erster. He needed to do something, to work off his anger and guilt. He strode deep into the dark woods, where he shed first his cloak, then his clothing. He was in no shape to Shift and retain his method of dress. He knew that much. For a moment he stood, nude, in the coolness of the forest, his thoughts on the other Vector. He wondered how close he was, who he was. Shapeshifting could point a finger directly at Adan. He clenched his jaw in rage. So be it. If this Vector showed up, Adan would kill him. With a snarl of rage, he Shapeshifted into a hawk, and sprang away from the ground. He had not Shifted for a long time, and realized he should have selected something aground for a trial run. But it was too late now. He was adrift, wobbling badly, but determined to succeed. Still, the recent ingestion of hack played havoc with his abilities, and as he soared out over the land, he realized that he would not be able to hold this Shift. Panicked, he searched for a place to land. He found it in the sweet green grasses of the slopes to the south of Erster. He barely made it down before his form once more Shifted to that of Vector. He huddled in the grass, his breathing hard and ragged, his heart pounding. That was too close. A thin sheen of sweat broke out on his brow, and he lay back, briefly covering his face with a shaking hand. It took him a few moments to collect his senses. When he had, he started. Someone was close by. He could hear a soft humming. But more than that, he could now smell a subtle perfume. He cursed himself for his lack of attention. What had this other person seen? Would he need to kill yet again to protect his identity? Again the mere idea sent guilt racing through him. He didn't like it, and clenched both jaw and fist, then lay perfectly still, waiting, suddenly conscious of his nudity. It would be difficult to 110

explain how he gotten here, and why he was wearing not a stitch of clothing. He tried reaching out with his mind, with the intent of directing the person away from him, then caught at his breath. Jade! He sat up so fast, his head spun. He spotted her at once. She had just crested a rise in the hills, her gaze on the bumpy terrain beneath her feet. Obviously, she had not been witness to his hawk body plummeting toward the ground, or his Shift back to Vector. He waited until she was closer, then bade her wordlessly to look in his direction. She did so, then let out a small shriek of alarm, stumbling backward several steps. She stared at him, her green eyes wide with shock and disbelief. "You," she breathed, dropping the handful of purple wildflowers she held. "Greetings," Adan managed, for lack of a better thing to say. Her gaze flicked to his bare arms and chest. Thankfully, the tall grass hid the lower half of his body. He thought about standing, just to amuse himself with her reaction, then decided against it. "Wh...what are you doing here?" Jade managed. Adan paused. "Enjoying the view," he said quietly, his gaze roaming over her in appreciation. He could already feel his loins stirring at the sight of her, and the feeling was greatly enhanced by the hack. He took a deep breath, forcing aside thoughts of summoning her closer. She must do that on her own. She did, taking a few steps in his direction. "You're naked," she stated. Adan chuckled. "You noticed." A frown crossed her face. "Why?" He shrugged, changing the course of questions. "What are you doing up here? It's a long climb from the village." He gestured toward Erster, which he could see in the distance. Jade glanced at the village, then turned back to Adan. She opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again, and looked at the ground. She retreated a few steps and picked up the flowers she had dropped. "I came to get some herbs," she said. "They grow here."

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"Herbs?" Adan studied the stalks in her hand, then glanced at the grass growing near him. He saw the same plant within arms reach, and pulled it toward him, taking a deep breath of the small purple flower. A gasp escaped him, and his gaze shot to Jade. "This is hack!" Her cheeks pinked, and she swallowed hard. Adan skewered her with his gaze. "Are you collecting this for Brede?" "Brede?" The word was barely above a whisper. "I don't know what you're talking about." Sudden anger flared through Adan, and he got to his feet, no longer worried about his nudity before her. His gaze raked over the hillside, at the steep, treacherous path that wound up from Erster. That Brede should put Jade into danger to collect hack for him infuriated Adan. That she should deny her knowledge of the man sent his emotions over the edge. He closed the space between them in two long strides, and gripped her by the wrist. She let out a little gasp, her eyes widening with fear. "I will not have you doing this for the likes of him," Adan seethed. "If he wants to collect hack, then he can do so himself." "I...I don't know what you –" Adan cut her off with a look. A look that drove deep into her eyes, claimed her soul. "The truth," he whispered. "Who is Brede?" She trembled under his Spell. "He...he's a seller." "I guessed that much, Jade. Whom does he work for?" "I don't know who he works for. I...I didn't even know he had an employer until the other day." "Why does he command you? How much does he pay you to gather the hack?" "He pays me nothing. I help him because he loves me." The last words were said with such haughty arrogance it sent rage tearing through Adan. "Love? What does Brede know of love?" She tilted her head in defiance. "What do you?" The words startled Adan, and he softened his grip on her arm. For a moment, he was silent, then he reached up and gently ran his fingers along her cheek. A shudder ran through her. Adan lowered his head and lightly kissed her neck, then ran his 112

tongue to her earlobe. A small gasp escaped her as he sucked the lobe tenderly. He looked back into her eyes, no longer able to suppress his desires. He forgot all about his promise not to use magic to seduce her. He wanted her, he needed her. The slightest nudge sent her to the ground, where he joined her. He kissed her full lips, lost in the taste. He moved his mouth to her throat, felt the pulse there, kissed it and sucked at the skin gently, leaving a small red spot in the creamy white skin. Jade lay still, her breathing deep and quick, and on impulse, Adan relaxed his Spell, wondering what would happen. He was pleasantly surprised at how long it took her to react. She let out a gasp, as if shocked to find herself laying on the ground, this man next to her. Her gaze met his, but she did not move. Adan hesitated, then smiled, and kissed her lips lightly, heartened when she actually responded. It was some moments before she drew back, her voice a sultry whisper. "M'Lord," she said. "You command me, but I am no whore." The words stung, and Adan withdrew. He sat up. "I hold no Spell over you, M'Lady. You are free to go." Jade sat up. "Then you will not..." Her words trailed off but her hand stole to her neck. Adan snorted with disgust. "No, I will not feed on you. That is not my purpose with you." "Then what is your purpose?" Adan hesitated, wondering himself. He shook his head. "Go." He turned his back on her. He heard her rise, and move away, but refused to look in her direction. He was surprised when she again spoke. "And what of you, M'Lord? Will you stay here?" He shrugged. "Does it matter?" There was a moment of silence. "I'm sorry, M'Lord," Jade said quietly. "I cannot betray my love." "Love?" Adan turned to look at her. "You believe Brede loves you?" Jade lifted her chin, though her cheeks flushed. "He does, M'Lord. We plan to marry, raise a family together. He has promised." 113

Adan's eyes narrowed. "Are you with child?" Her hand went to her abdomen, but she did not answer. Instead, she turned and disappeared over the rise, following the trail back to Erster. Adan sat very still for a long moment, then stood and ShapeShifted back into a bird – this time a smaller one that he was more able to control. He winged out over the hills, swooped once over Jade's head, then returned to the woods where he had left his clothing.

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Chapter 17 Baris paced the dark alleyway, each step increasing his anxiety. He needed to feed, yet was terrified of doing so. He had not returned to his room since leaving earlier that morning. He was hungry, tired, cold and badly in need of sustenance. He exhaled sharply and slammed one fist against the wooden wall of the nearest building. Damn! He could think of no one safe to feed on. No one except Deirdre. And how safe was that? He whirled and headed back toward the room. He would use her, hypnotize her, take only her blood. He could do this. She had put him into this awkward situation, this deadly situation. She would pay for it with her own blood. He stormed up the stairs, and grabbed hold of the door handle. But it refused to turn under his grip. Scowling, he pounded against the door. "Deirdre! Let me in!" There was a scuffling on the other side of the door, and it opened a crack. A young woman peered out, her eyes questioning. "What do you want? Who are you?" Baris started. "Who are you? Where's Deirdre? And my son?" He pushed against the door, easily opening it and shoving her aside. Sirab looked up at him from where he sat before the fireplace. Tears streaked the boy's face, and his eyes were red and swollen. Baris' gaze went at once to the fully blazing lamps, the open drapes that let in the early evening sunshine, and his rage exploded. He crossed the room in two strides and yanked the drapes closed, then turned and doused each lamp. Sirab broke into sobs of relief, and toddled toward him. Baris scooped him up, then turned on the girl, who had fallen back against the wardrobe in confusion and trepidation. "What is the meaning of this?" Baris roared. "Who are you? What are you doing here with my son?" "I...I was paid to watch over him, M'Lord, by the Lady Deirdre," she managed. "Until his father returned." "Paid? Lady?" Baris could scarcely get the words out. He drew a calming breath, his arms tightening about Sirab. "Get out!" "Yes, M'Lord," the girl squeaked, and made for the door. 115

"Wait!" Baris' command stopped her cold. He hesitated for a moment, then looked deep into her eyes. It didn't take much to hypnotize her, and he approached her slowly. Sirab had gone unexpectedly silent in his arms, and now twisted so that he could also see the woman. "Do you use hack?" Baris asked softly. She shook her head, blonde tresses swinging gently. "Never?" Baris pressed. "No, M'Lord. Never." It was beyond her capabilities at this moment to even question why he was asking. He licked his lips, his eyes on her throat, but he could not quite bring himself to approach her further. "Go sit down," he said quietly. She did as told, settling down on the edge of the bed, while Baris sank onto the foot of the bed, his back to the girl. Sirab squirmed free of him, crawling behind him. Baris closed his eyes and rubbed wearily at his face. What was he to do? Where had Deirdre gone this time? For what purpose? The thought that she would entrust their child to a complete stranger was beyond him. If it was not for the spell she held over Aysha, he would have taken Sirab and fled a long time ago. He sat up at a little gasp of surprise from the woman. He turned his head, then cried out and came to his feet. Sirab was sitting on the woman's lap, his teeth sunk into the woman's flesh. Baris snatched him away. "No!" Sirab howled in frustration and tried to wrestle free of Baris' hold. Baris stared at the woman, at the small bite marks on her neck. Her eyes were glassy, unseeing, her hands limp at her sides. "Leggo!" Sirab yowled. "Hungry! Papa, leggo me!" Baris held him firmly, unsure of his emotions. How could this frighten him? Disgust him? Sirab was his child. He was a Vector, just as Baris was a Vector. Why did the sight of him attempting to feed bring bile to the back of Baris' throat? He swallowed hard, and forced a calm to his voice.

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"No, Sirab. You can't do it that way yet. Not until you get your grownup teeth." He knew the child didn't understand the explanation, yet he felt better for giving it. "Here. Like this." He sat down on the bed, picked up the woman's wrist and bit. As soon as the blood began to flow, he allowed Sirab to take over. The little boy sucked ravenously, holding the woman's arm like an ear of corn. Baris sat as if frozen, watching his son, then he gently pulled the child away. Sirab came readily, obviously having satiated himself. His eyelids drooped wearily, and he leaned his head against Baris' chest. Baris laid him down on the bed, then kissed his forehead. "Sleep, little one," he whispered, and pulled the covers over the boy. The girl still sat, quietly, obviously yet under the Spell Sirab had cast over his own. Baris hesitated only a moment, then sat down beside her. His feed was quick and efficient. He felt no stirrings in his loins, no euphoric rush of the hack, and was immensely thankful for that. It eased his mind to know this girl was clean, that her blood would not addict Sirab. And it eased his heart to know that Deirdre was wrong that he could feed on a woman besides Anika without sexual urges. When he was done, he allowed the girl to fall down beside Sirab. She would sleep. He would wake her later, let her leave, and she would remember nothing. Baris crossed the room to the settee, and sank down. His gaze moved to his son. That the child could hypnotize an adult at his early age, would even attempt such a feeding, was astounding to Baris. He supposed it came from coaching from Darius. Baris couldn't truly remember when he, himself, had hypnotized his first victim, but he knew it wasn't until he was much older. The boy's power frightened him. Just what was Sirab capable of?

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Chapter 18 Jaeger peered into the alleyway, his Vector senses parting the darkness. Empty. No one there. Not a soul. He moved on, his insides churning with worry. Vail had been gone when he'd waken, and had not returned since. Jaeger had waited until well past noon then gone in search. As of yet, he had not found the young man, had not even sensed him. He could only begin to imagine what foul thing might have befallen Vail in this city. After witnessing the beating death of one youth, he wasn't about to witness any other, especially when that youth was so close to him. He turned down another street, then stopped. His steps had taken him to the city cemetery. He hesitated a moment, then drawn by an unexplainable force, he entered. He had no idea where the urchin had been buried and so looked for fresh graves. There were several. He found the beaten youth first. The grave was tucked well back from the other, more respectable plots, and Jaeger supposed the boy was lucky he'd even gotten that much. The headstone was small, roughly carved, bearing only his name and the date. Jaeger sighed, shook his head, and glanced about. It seemed logical to assume that the urchin had been buried in the same area. Jaeger found the grave by accident. He almost tripped over the toppled stone. Or he thought it had been toppled. A closer look showed it had been dug from the site and placed carefully in the grass. Chips of stone lay alongside it, and Jaeger hunched down to investigate. He ran his fingers over the rough etching of a small lamb. A lamb? He sat back on his heels, perplexed. Why would the stone be removed for the addition of a carved lamb? Had the boy family? Had they found his grave and desired to make it more unique? Still, there was no name, only Boy. Wouldn't they have simply bought a new stone, one bearing his name and age, date of birth? It made no sense. A shout brought Jaeger to his feet. The stonemason was moving his way, weaving in and out of the other graves, his tools secured to his waist in a leather apron. Jaeger waited patiently for the robust man to reach him.

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"Eh? Don't be messin' with that," the mason warned, shaking a hammer at Jaeger. "I was not messing with it," Jaeger responded coolly. "I was wondering why it had been toppled." "Why do you care?" "Because I bought it." The man scrunched up his face. "Nuh-uh. Was a young man, dark. He paid for it the first round, and paid for this addition. Not you." Jaeger bit back his irritation. "He is my associate. He purchased the stone at my request. You say he asked for this addition. When?" The stonemason hesitated, then shrugged, obviously deciding Jaeger was telling the truth. "This mornin', early. I been working on it all day. Just took a break for supper. I'll be done with it by mornin'." He dropped back down beside the stone. "I see. And how much did my associate pay you?" The mason paused, then scratched his head. "Hasn't paid me yet. Said he would when I's done." Jaeger drew a slow breath. "You're lying." The mason came to his feet, his face red, the hammer clutched tightly in one fist. "Says who?" "Says me," Jaeger responded calmly. "I know a little something about craftsmen. They do not work for no pay. I would suspect my associate paid you half now, and promised you half at completion. Is that not correct?" The man glared at Jaeger but was no match for the small bit of magic Jaeger tossed his way. He looked away, blubbering, and once again dropped to the ground. "Right." "And he said he would pay the other half when?" Jaeger pressed. "Nope, didn't say. Just when it was done. Why?" Jaeger sighed. "No reason. Thank you." He tipped his head and started away, then stopped. "Did he say why a lamb?" "Nope, didn't say that either. Just said he wanted it done quickly." 119

"Quickly," Jaeger echoed. "Thank you." He tipped his head and strode away, his worry increasing. He supposed he should report to the Lair, tell Darius what had occurred. The thought didn't set well with him. He already considered himself a partial failure, though it was not his fault. As Vail had so gently pointed out, he was not a full Vector. That human blood coursing through his veins kept him from full Vector abilities. Such as being able to sense Vail in this city of thousands. Jaeger needed help, and he knew it. But whom? He sighed and turned his steps toward the slums. Perhaps Vail had only gone there to poke around a bit. It would be like the youth to do something so risky. If I don't find him there, or he doesn't show up by tomorrow morning, then I'll request help, Jaeger decided. I should at least give him time to return.

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Chapter 19 Vail struggled fiercely against the hold the two men had on him. Blood ran from his split lip to drip from his chin. His ribs were bruised, maybe even broken, and each breath of air ran like fire through his lungs. Still, he fought to free himself from the brutes holding him, memories of Eli torturing his mind. Brede stood before him, hands on hips, dark eyes narrowed to mere slits of rage. "I'll ask you again, boy, what were you doing with Jade?" "I already told you," Vail managed. "Nothing. She burned the toast, her boss hit her, and I was walking her home." "And walking her home you just had to sample a little of her wares, eh?" Brede asked. "Once a whore, always a whore." "She's not a whore!" Vail muttered. Brede grabbed a handful of the youth's hair, pulling his head back. "Just how many times did you lay with her? How many times did you sample this woman who is not a whore?" Vail remained quiet, defiantly staring back into Brede's eyes. The man abruptly chuckled, and released Vail's hair. His head fell forward, pain unable to keep it upright. Then just as abruptly as Brede had released him, he backhanded him, whipping Vail's head to one side, and spattering his blood on the nearby bed covers. Brede once more grabbed Vail by the hair. His face was very close, his eyes full of hate and fury, but whatever he was going to say or do was stalled by the opening of the door. One of his men had Jade by the arm, and near dragged her into the room. She was blindfolded, although her face was pale. Brede gave her a surly smile. "Well, well," he said, walking toward her. "Look what the cat dragged in." He reached up and pulled away the blindfold. Jade gasped, her gaze going at once to Vail. "Wh...what are you doing?" she whispered. "The better question would be, what were you doing?"

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Jade tore her gaze from Vail to look up at Brede. "What do you mean? I...I was in the meadows, gathering. I got some really good..." He reached up and tore the scarf from her throat, his jaw tight with anger. "Interesting birth marks on your neck, Jade. Strange that I never saw them before now." Her hand flew towards the marks, but Brede caught it. Jade let out a little whimper of pain as the man bent her arm backwards. "Leave her alone!" Vail cried. Brede glanced over at him, then back at Jade. "You want to tell me how those marks got there, Jade?" Her mouth parted, and her gaze again flew towards Vail. It was all of the answer Brede seemed to need. He backhanded Jade with the same ferocity as he had Vail. She shrieked and stumbled, only his grip on her wrist keeping her from falling. "Stop it!" Vail screamed, and tried vainly to escape his captors. "Leave her alone! She did nothing. Not with me!" He knew as soon as the words were out, they were wrong. Jade gasped out loud, pulling against the hold Brede had on her. His face was bright red now, his jaw so tight he could scarcely talk. "So, then, there were others besides Vail?" She shook her head, clawing at his hand. "No, Brede. There is no one save you! You know that." "I know I didn't put those marks on your neck, Jade. Someone had to. If it wasn't this fair fellow before us, then who?" "It was a Vector!" Vail snapped. "Can't you see that? Those are Vector bites!" Jade's face went white, and she sagged, all of the fight seeming to leave her at once. Brede paused, then cocked his head to one side studying the marks. "Interesting arrangement. Three marks. I thought Vectors only left two. That's the most I've ever seen. Just two. This must be some strange sort of Vector you're answering to, Jade." He shoved her away with a scoff of disbelief.

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Even Vail frowned in confusion. Three marks? Perhaps he had misjudged her at that. She stumbled, then fell back against the nightstand, where she huddled, obviously too frightened to dispute Brede's words. He paced the room a moment, then looked down at her. "You have sullied her for me, Vail. I don't dare lay with her now. Who knows what dreaded disease she might have picked up from you. That puts me in a situation, Vail. A situation I don't like." He approached Vail slowly. "A man has needs, Vail. I'm sure you can understand that. Things such as shelter, a livelihood, money, and..." he paused, "sex." He turned again to face Jade. "I've handled things for you at the inn. You've been reinstated there." She frowned, obviously confused. He walked over to her and extended his hand. She took it warily, and allowed him to help her to her feet. But she shrank back when he reached out for her. He smiled and slowly touched her cheek with one finger. He traced down to her lips, then caught at her chin. The kiss he planted on her lips was as soft and gentle as any proper lover's. Vail watched the whole episode in raging confusion. The man was unstable, there was no denying that. And unstable men were dangerous men. "You can thank me later, Jade," Brede said smoothly. "For now, my men will take you home. You'll report back to work tomorrow." She nodded, her gaze sliding again to Vail. It was not a missed gesture for Brede. He gave a cold smile. "Your little friend will stay with me for a few days, Jade. Of course, you'll keep silent about this whole incident, I'm sure. You wouldn't want the constables to find Vail, or parts of him at least, floating in the river, now would you?" Jade stiffened, and swallowed hard. Vail sent her a silent plea to leave, to accept Brede's momentary goodwill in letting her go. She seemed to understand and started for the door. Brede snapped his fingers. At once, his man again securely blindfolded Jade, then led her from the room. Vail watched her go, despair settling over him like a shroud. If she didn't know where Brede's hideout was, she couldn't possibly send any help. Not that he was convinced she would anyway. He looked back at Brede as 123

the man approached. For a long moment, the man said nothing, did nothing, then he held out his hand, and one of his men immediately placed a small pouch there. "Let me introduce you to my world, Vail." It didn't take Vail much guessing to know what was in the pouch. The pungent aroma wafted around him even with the bag closed, and Vail instinctively shrank back. Brede gave a knowing smile. "You a user, Vail?" "No," Vail answered firmly, though a sick feeling began in the pit of stomach. Brede opened the bag and took out a pinch of the drug. "Would you like to try it?" he whispered. "No," Vail said again. Brede hesitated a moment, then gestured at his men. "Tie him up on the bed." The men dragged Vail to small, iron bed, and threw him onto his stomach. He was in no physical shape to resist. A hiss of pain escaped him as his battered body met the hard, threadbare mattress, and blackness descended over him. When he came to, his wrists and ankles were bound to opposite corners, and Brede was hunkered down on the floor beside him. Vail stared into the dark eyes, their emptiness chilling him. "A man has needs," Brede whispered, his mouth close to Vail's ear. "Since Jade can no longer satisfy me, I guess you'll have to do. Now, I'll ask you again, would you like to try it?" He waggled the hack pouch before Vail's eyes. "No." Vail's voice came out as only a raspy murmur. "Suit yourself," Brede said softly. "But trust me, in a few hours you'll wish you'd taken me up on my offer."

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Chapter 20 "He's not here?" Jaeger stared at the woman in outright disbelief. "Where did he go?" Trina shook her head. "No, they all left. Without a word. I don't understand. Anika was ill with childbirth fever. And Aysha, why she was not yet a day old. I can't imagine why Baris would take them away like that." Jaeger felt a chill creep through him. "Perhaps he took Anika to her cousin's. He lives not far from me, and my wife is a very gifted healer." Trina frowned. "But then, why didn't you already know that?" "I have been out of town for a few days," Jaeger answered simply. "I will return home at once to check on Baris." "And Anika," Trina put in. "I miss her. She's my closest friend here. I...I know that some of the others are not happy that she married a Vector, but I have always found Baris to kind and gentle." "He is." Jaeger gave her a small smile, then moved away. He returned to Baris' house, where in the privacy behind closed doors he could work his own magic. But he did not return to his home. Instead, he went to the Lair. If Anika was ill, he had no wish to drag Baris away from her. Better to find another Vector to assist him. Besides, if Rhiannon found out that her brother had disappeared while under his care...he shuddered away the thought. He would not upset her now, not with another life growing inside of her. He arrived to find the Lair ominously quiet. He stood still a moment, letting his eyes adjust to the darkness, then turned and headed toward Darius' Council Room. Two armed guards blocked his path. "Name and purpose," one of them demanded. "Jaeger. I've come to see Darius. It's urgent." "Request denied. Please move to the Common Area." "Denied?" Jaeger stared at him in outright surprise. Never had Darius denied an urgent request from one of his subjects. Especially not from his own grandson. 125

"Denied!" the guard snapped, and prodded him backward. "Move on." A flare of irritation raced through Jaeger, but he knew better than to argue with a Sovereign Guard. He tipped his head in acquiescence and turned away. Perhaps he could find some answers in the Common Room. But the mood there seemed to somber. Few Vectors were about, not even the children. Jaeger sought out a familiar face, finally finding it in Baul. The Vector noticed him at the same moment, and they met near the center of the massive underground room. "Jaeger! Do you know where Baris is?" Baul asked at once. "No! I was going to ask you the same thing." Jaeger glanced around them. Several Vectors had looked their way, and Baul sighed. "Come on, let's go someplace more private. I'm afraid that neither of us are welcome company at the moment." Jaeger deferred his questions until he and Baul had reached one of the small, comfortable meeting rooms located deep within the Lair. Baul sealed the entrance with magic, keeping out eavesdroppers. Jaeger frowned, his curiosity peaking. "What's going on?" he asked. "Oh, by the Sovereign, what isn't?" Baul sank onto one of the many, thick, drab colored cushions softening the rock floor. He looked up at Jaeger. "Someone poisoned the Sovereign, and all fingers are pointing to Baris." The words practically floored Jaeger. "Baris?" The word was barely a breath. "I know. I don't believe it anymore than you do. But he was the last one to be seen with the Sovereign. And he was the last one to be seen with Deirdre as well." "Deirdre? What does she have to do with it?" "She's gone, Jaeger. Disappeared. About all we know is that it was Baris' magic that spirited her away. He left behind his wife and his children." "Anika? Thale? They're here?" Baul nodded. "As well as his newborn daughter, Aysha." It was Jaeger's turn to slump to the ground. For a moment, he was silent. "This doesn't make sense. Baris would never leave his family. Certainly not his new child. It had to be Deirdre. There is no other answer." 126

"Except that there was no evidence of Deirdre's magic. Only a small bit that seemed to be for healing." "From the fever," Jaeger murmured. "Fever?" He nodded. "I checked Baris' home first. One of Anika's friends told me that Anika was ill with childbirth fever. I thought Baris might have taken her to Rhiannon. Instead, it appears he came here. But if Anika is here, what does she tell you about his leaving?" "That's just it. We found her and Thale in the hallway. Both were unconscious, and have remained so since then. The best we can figure is some sort of spell." "Witch?" Baul shook his head, his face glum. "Vector." "And when was Darius found?" "Not long after. Why?" "His condition?" Baul paused, then placed one hand on Jaeger's forearm. "It doesn't look good, Jaeger. I'm sorry. I know how close you and he were." The words startled Jaeger. "Are!" he snapped with more anger than he'd intended. No one knew about his relationship with Darius. The Vector Sovereign was all Jaeger had left of family, something that was very important to him now that he had children of his own. He got to his feet, his stomach churning. "I need to see him." "You can't. No one gets past except the healers. And even then, it's not without a thorough search." "By whose orders?" Baul winced. "Coleus." Jaeger gasped, his breath hissing from him as surely as if he'd been gut punched. "Coleus?" He stared at Baul in outright alarm. "By what lineage does Coleus assume command?" Baul shrugged. "He is the highest ranking Chosen in the Lair."

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"And one of the most ruthless. If anyone were to follow in Cardiss' footsteps it would be Coleus." Baul came to his feet, his gaze darting to the sealed entrance. "Take care with your words, Jaeger. The walls have ears." Jaeger drew a quick, irritated breath, and changed the subject. "You mentioned that neither you nor I were welcome here. Why? What have we done?" "Befriended Baris. Now, you said you were searching for him. Why?" Jaeger had quite forgotten his own dilemma in the face of this new problem. "I needed his expertise, Baul. It's Vail. He's disappeared. I need a Vector to sense him out." "Vail? How will a Vector help? Vail's not a Vector." "Yes, I know, but he does carry a small amount of my blood. I thought perhaps a full Vector could track him." Baul shook his head. "I've spent many hours with Vail, and I never could sense him. I think it's because of his witch magic. It clouds the Vector magic. Now, if he used his magic that would be something else again. You could search for iron." "That might be too late. He's been missing since yesterday morning." "When was he last bled?" "Two days ago." "Was it an adequate feed?" "Yes!" Jaeger snapped, his own worry and frustration edging his words. He raked one hand through his hair. "I'm sorry. I'm worried." "I'll go back with you," Baul said. "Maybe I can help find him. I've fed on him dozens of times. I might be able to help you track him." "I would appreciate it," Jaeger said, not mentioning how he was even more appreciative of the fact that Baul had not intimated his own failings as a full Vector. He turned toward the door, but Baul stopped him. "No. We'd better just cast our spell from here. We're liable to be stopped otherwise." "Stopped? Why? We've done nothing." 128

"I know that, but I'm not so sure anyone else does. In fact, we're quite lucky we haven't already been detained for questioning." "Baul! Jaeger!" The cold voice brought both Jaeger and Baul around with a gasp. "Coleus!" Baul cried. The Vector waved one hand in front of the doorway, dissolving the shield Baul had placed. He entered the meeting room, three heavily armed guards standing at command in the doorway. "So, tell me, Baul, Jaeger, just what were you discussing behind closed doors as it were?" "Nothing," Baul said. "Jaeger came here looking for help." "Help? From whom, might I ask?" "From me," Baul said smoothly. "Seems my old friend, Vail, has gone missing. Jaeger wished my help in locating him." Coleus studied him a moment, then looked to Jaeger. "And what is your story?" "Story?" Jaeger repeated in surprise, his anger rising. "I am on a mission for Darius." "So say you. But I heard nothing of such a mission." "And you're now privy to everything the Sovereign decides?" Jaeger shot back. Coleus glared at him. "More so than you will ever be, half-breed." Jaeger's rage exploded and he approached Coleus so quickly the Vector stumbled backward against the wall. Immediately, the guards were in the room, their oaken swords pointed at Jaeger's chest. He stiffened, but refused to draw back from the lethal weapons. Coleus recovered quickly, and straightened, his face tight with anger. "That was a mistake, half-breed!" he seethed. He jerked his head at the guards. "Lock them both up. We may have just found an accomplice to murder."

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Chapter 21 Deirdre did not return until early evening. By that time Baris had already allowed Sirab's temporary caretaker to leave, he had ordered both lunch and dinner, and had tucked the little boy into bed for the night. Deirdre slipped into the room, as if she thought both Baris and Sirab would be fast asleep. She gasped when Baris rose from his seat before the fire. "Welcome back," he said flatly. "How long have you been here?" she asked, removing her cloak. "Since this morning. Where were you? Or is that none of my business yet again?" Deirdre ignored him, moving toward the bathroom. "I'm going to get ready for bed." Baris reached out and gripped her by the forearm. "Haven' t you been in bed enough lately?" "How dare you!" she snapped, and tried to yank away from him. Surprise, then anger, crossed her face when he did not release her. "Let go of me!" "I will," he said. "But I haven't fed for several days. Perhaps you wouldn't mind donating a little blood." She hesitated a second then called his bluff. "Fine." Her voice took on a husky tone, and she tilted her face toward him. "I didn't think you were interested." Baris clenched his jaw in annoyance. He was halfway tempted to do as he had said, to feed on her, to let her know he was in charge, that he could separate the feed from her sensuality. But just the closeness of her, the feel of her arm beneath his fingers, the alluring way she tipped her head, sent his courage spinning. He let loose of her arm, and turned away, hoping his voice conveyed none of his turmoil. "No need. The wench you employed for Sirab this morning proved to be quite adequate." "Did she?" Baris wasn't sure if he heard resignation or irritation in the question. He chanced a sidelong glance at her, but she was studying Sirab. "Did he eat?" "Blood or food?" 130

She huffed out an exasperated breath. "Food!" "Yes, no thanks to you. Apparently mothering doesn't come naturally to you." The words had their desired effect on her. She stiffened, her face set in a hard scowl. "I'm going to take a bath, then go to bed." "I'm sure you'll find the settee quite comfortable," Baris said, secretly enjoying the ire that swept through Deirdre's dark eyes. "I'll bed down with my son. Good night." He turned away from her, and went to the bed. She let out a huff of indignation, and stomped into the bathroom. Baris couldn't help but smile as he sat down on the edge of the bed. He laid back, one hand under his head, the other resting lightly on Sirab's slumbering form. Still, he was too angry and upset to sleep. He knew he should be in Erster, helping Jaeger, yet he was terrified of leaving Sirab alone with Deirdre. Perhaps he should stop this whole charade and return with Sirab to the Lair. But then what might happen to Aysha? A sudden thought occurred to him. He could return to the Lair alone, while Deirdre was out and about. There would be no way for her to find out, to know where he'd gone. He had been out for most of the previous night and she had not even questioned it. Or maybe, just maybe there was no spell over Aysha. What if it was all a calculated bluff on Deirdre's part? He looked over as she re-entered the room carrying a cup of water. She glanced his way, but he remained still, knowing she could not see in the darkness as well as he could. After a moment, she moved toward the settee, and sat down. He watched as she sat studying the water, as if deep in thought. Baris eased himself up on one elbow, curious. She didn't seem to notice his movement at all, which surprised him. Even when Sirab moved and mumbled in his sleep she didn't turn. Sudden knowledge hit Baris - she was scrying. Using the cup of water to look in on something or someone. Using the stealth he was born with, he slid from the bed, and crossed the room to stand behind her. She never flinched, far too involved in her own magic, and he peered over her shoulder into the water. It was all he could do to contain his gasp of alarm.

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The scrye vision showed Darius, laid out on his massive bed, bundled well against the cold of the Lair. Firelight flickered over his pale face, and Baris could see the shadow of at least one other person in the room. What he couldn't see was the rise and fall of Darius' chest, and sudden terror tore through him. "What did you do to him?" he growled. Deirdre started, dropping the cup, and whirling toward him. He grabbed her by the arm, preventing her from rising. "What did you do to Darius?" "Stop it!" She tried to pull away. "You're hurting me!" "I'll kill you if you don't answer me!" Baris spat, the venom in his tone surprising even him. Sirab woke with a yowl of terror, sitting straight up in the bed. His keening wails pierced the darkness of the room, and Baris released his grip on Deirdre so suddenly she toppled from the settee to the floor. She stared up at him in true fear. But there was something else there. Baris didn't take the time to analyze it. "I'll ask you again," he said. "What did you do to Darius?" Deirdre recovered her composure, and got to her feet. "I didn't do anything to him," she snapped, and went to console Sirab. "Then maybe you can explain his condition?" She sat down on the bed, and pulled Sirab into her arms. He went willingly, clinging to her, his gaze on Baris. Baris stayed where he was, not liking the fear he had put into the child, and waited for Deirdre to answer. She didn't. "Why were you checking on him?" Baris asked, changing his tactics. She shrugged, again not answering. Baris clenched his fists at his sides, trying to keep from wrapping his hands around her throat. He knew of her magic, of its strength. But already he could smell the iron rising from around her as a result of the scrying magic she had used. She was weakened now; he didn't know if she would have the strength left to fight him off. But he wasn't sure what she might do in retaliation, and with Sirab cradled in her arms, Baris wasn't about to force a showdown.

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"I thought you despised Darius," he said. "It surprises me that you felt the need to look in on him. Perhaps he owns more of your heart than you're willing to admit." That sparked a response. She lifted her head, glaring at him. "Nonsense! I had heard he was ill, that's all." "Heard? From whom?" She drew back, obviously unhappy with the news she had just shared. "I have my sources." He paused a moment, wondering at what he heard in her voice. There was a haughtiness to be sure, but again it was laced with something else. Not remorse, he could never hope for that. But something. Fear? But of whom? What? It was clear she held no fear of him or his Vector magic. "Perhaps your source is wrong," he said evenly. "Perhaps we should visit Darius, make sure he is doing well." Her eyes narrowed, but there was a glint of alarm there as well. "Nice try, Baris, but I'm not going back to the Lair, no matter how ill Darius appears to be. And neither are you. Have you forgotten about your daughter?" He stiffened. "What proof do I have of your spell, Deirdre? Perhaps there is none. Perhaps it's only a bluff on your part." He watched her face carefully for any telltale sign that he was right. She gave him a cold smile. "Well, why don't you just test it? Why don't you risk your daughter's life for it?" She waited a moment, then lay back on the bed, Sirab tucked securely in her arms. All uncertainty was gone from her voice when she spoke. "Now, then, I'm tired. Why don't you get some sleep as well? You look as if you could use it." Hot rage tore through Baris as she turned her back on him. He took a step toward the bed, thought better of it, and abruptly stormed to the window. He threw open the shutters, took one last look at Deirdre, then shifted to a bird and escaped the room, and his thoughts of smothering the life out of his former lover.

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Chapter 22 Adan moved to the window, and peered outside. The streets were emptying, with residents going home to their own hearth, their own families. The room about Adan suddenly seemed very cold and empty, and his thoughts went to Jade. He hadn't seen her, talked to her, since last eve. He wanted her here, with him. He wanted to spend his evenings in her company, the night in her arms, to know that she waited for him to return from the day's duties. But what were those duties? Adan snorted. He had never held a job. He had taken what he wanted by magic. Even Jade. He winced, found a chair and collapsed into it. He didn't want to force her to come to him. He wanted her to come on her own. But would she? Ever? She had stated she was in love with Brede. Adan felt the man held no such love for her. But what was his purpose with her? He leaned back in the chair, his brow furrowing in thought. Jade had been in the high meadows, gathering wild hack. For her own use? Adan didn't think so. For Brede then? He shifted, slouching further into the fabric embrace of the chair. If she was indeed gathering hack for Brede, was she doing it because she wanted to, or because she had to? Maybe Brede was forcing her to get the drug, manipulating her through her love for him. The thought picked at him, sent his gut roiling, and he surged from the chair. He took two long strides toward the door, then abruptly stopped. And what would he do? Confront Brede? What if his assumptions were correct? Would it really matter? Jade loved Brede. Perhaps he loved her as well. And there was the unanswered question of whether she carried his child. Adan sighed with resignation, and turned back toward his chair. A light tap on the door stopped him. He remained still, quiet. The tap came again, this time accompanied by a quiet voice. "Linens." Adan felt his stomach flutter. Jade. He had forgotten she worked here. He didn't want to see her just now, was afraid of what might happen if he did. He hoped she would just go away. But that was not to be. At the sound of her master key grinding 134

in the lock, Adan slipped behind the door. Perhaps she would simply place the linens on the nearby chair and leave. The door opened slowly, as if she were hesitant about entering. "Linens," she called again, then stepped into the room. Adan was well hidden by the open door and the shadow it cast, but he could see her. Every part of him cried out for her. He wanted to feel her in his arms, taste her lips on his, sample again the womanly essence of Jade. He clenched his fists at his side, and waited for her to leave. But she didn't. She placed the linens on the chair by the door, then slowly pushed the door closed. The room was dark, made more so by the heavy curtains at the window. Jade went to the window, and pulled the curtains aside. Adan winced in the sudden light. Jade turned toward the bed, ostensibly to straighten it up. She gave a small gasp of startlement at seeing Adan pressed against the wall, but she did not back away. For a moment, they merely stared at each other, then Adan spoke, his voice rasping in a throat gone dry. "What do you want?" "I've brought clean linens, M'Lord," she returned. "I...I was to freshen up your room." "Thank you, but it's fine." Again he waited, but she seemed to have more on her mind. "Did you...did you call for me, M'Lord?" she whispered. Adan started. Had he? He wasn't sure. Perhaps in his yearnings and longings he had indeed sent for her. He was suddenly aware of how hard his heart was pounding, how fast he was breathing. Yes, he did want her. By the sovereign, how he wanted her! He pushed away from the wall and walked toward her. But as he approached, he noticed a bruise on her cheek, a bruise she had attempted to cover with powder. He reached out and touched at her chin with one finger, turning her toward the light. "What happened?" Jade hesitated, averting her gaze. "A fall, M'Lord." "A fall?" He narrowed his eyes. "How did you fall?" 135

"I was carrying too many linens, M'Lord. I couldn't see my footing. I tripped on the stairs and hit the railing." Adan considered the words for a long moment. He wasn't sure if he truly believed them, but they were said with easy conviction. He reached up and brushed his fingers along her cheek. Her skin was warm and soft. So incredibly soft. Tendrils of her hair tickled his hand, like kitten fluff. Without realizing what he was doing, he leaned forward, touching her lips with his. It felt right, natural, as if they had done this a thousand times, would do this a thousand times more. He was more than surprised when she responded. He wrapped his arms around her, kissed her again, holding her tight against his body. She did not fight it. His kisses moved down her cheek to her throat. She caught at his arms with a small gasp. He drew back with the sudden knowledge that she was waiting for him to feed, expecting it. He looked into her eyes, saw wariness and question. And resignation. That tore at him the most. "No," he breathed, and released her. He spun away, snatched up his cloak and strode from the room before she could say a word. The evening air was brisk, the night promising rain. Adan abruptly realized he had forgotten to shapeshift yet again, and quickly ducked into a dark alley. There he became just another youth on the streets of the city. A youth in need of hack. And more. With a snarl of rage he stormed down the alley, kicking at anything that got in his way. Why now? Why was everything suddenly so mixed up? He had gone for hundreds of years without guilt, without hesitation, without love. Why now? Who was this girl who affected him so? Who made him question who and what he was? Why did he not use her to satisfy himself, both with blood and with sex? He'd done it before. A thousand times before. Why should she be any different? He shook the questions away and stepped onto the street just as the clouds unleashed their fury. Rain pelted down with stinging velocity, bringing an unseasonable chill. Adan turned up the neck on his cloak, and hunched further into it. Almost without thinking, he turned his steps toward the tavern district. He reached it

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just as night fully descended on the village. He was cold, hungry, wet and in need. He pushed aside the guilt that continually nagged at him, only fueling his anger. He was Adan, a Vector. He was in control. Complete control. He didn't like the new little voice of morality that whispered to him, berated him, chastised him, confused him. He did not like the fact that twice now he had forgotten to Illusion, that twice now he had put himself into danger of discovery or worse. He knew what the people of this town thought of Vectors, he knew how they would dispose of his kind. The thought sent horror through his gut, searing rage through his soul. He paused, leaning against the side of a building, and rubbed a head that was pounding. He could not get thoughts of Jade out of his head. She was intoxicating, addictive, more so than any hack he had ever taken. Damn! He pushed away from the wall, and stomped into the nearest drinkery. It was crowded, full of smoke and noise. Boisterous youth crowded the benches, tussling with each other, teasing and flirting with the barmaids. Drink was sloshed on the floor and tables, dampened the seats. Adan looked at them in disgust, chose a place near the hearth, and waited for a barmaid to approach. She was a young thing, probably just barely old enough to be working here. Long, blonde hair was pulled back in a thick braid. Her cheeks were rosy from the warmth in the room, her brown eyes sparkled a greeting as she took Adan's order. He settled back and watched her waltz across the room, darting inquisitive hands with obvious practice, despite her age. Adan let his gaze wander to the buxomly women near the stair railing. Creamy mounds of flesh begged to be freed of cloth prisons as they leaned forward and beckoned to the young men. Several took them up on their offer, and staggered up the stairs. Adan turned away, then shook his head in self-reproach. How many such women had he bedded over the years? How many had satiated his desires as a man and a Vector? Before, they had appealed to him. Now, they disgusted him. He started as the barmaid placed his drink before him. He had not even noticed her approach. Again, he chastised himself for his lack of attention. He was getting far

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too sloppy. Usually he was not nearly so distracted. And right now, with another Vector in the town, distraction could be costly. He gave the girl one of his last remaining coppers, too tired to bribe her with magic, then settled back to brood. The ale was warm and bitter, leaving a bad taste in his mouth. Still, he downed the mug, and sent for another. He had thought to drown his guilt, but in fact, he merely succeeded in making it more profound. And honed his anger at himself in the process. He needed to reassert who he was, what he was. He needed to regain the power Jade had sucked from him. He needed to be Adan, a pure, and powerful Vector. After the fifth mug, he rose, and staggered toward the bar. One of the women looked at him with a seductive smile. "Does M'Lord seek company this night?" she purred. Adan stared at her for a long moment, then shook his head. "Perhaps, but not with the likes of you." He didn't care that his words were blunt, that the woman drew back with a hurt countenance. His gaze went to the kitchen door. She was in there. The one he would take, the one he waited for. A moment later, she re-entered the hall, balancing a tray with four full steins. Adan caught her gaze as she moved past him. It was all of the time he needed to secure her cooperation. For a second she hesitated, then she smiled. "Give me a moment, M'Lord. I'll be right with you." He watched her deliver the drinks, watched the way her braid tumbled forward, the way her breasts swelled as she leaned over the table to place the last tankard. By the time she had returned to his side, he had already undressed her mentally. She placed the tray on the counter, took his hand and led him up the stairs. They reached her small room in moments. Adan wasted no time. He drew the hack pouch from his cloak, and held it out to her. She hesitated, then, under his Spell, took a few leaves on her tongue, then a little more at his urging. It took only seconds for the hack to have the desired effect. She swayed, clutching at the chair for stability. Her face was flushed, her eyes dilated. Adan frowned. It was obvious that this was the first time the girl had used the drug. Again, guilt picked at him, and in fury he buried it. 138

"What's your name?" he asked, as he shed his cloak. "Breena," she murmured, swaying. "That's a beautiful name, for a beautiful woman." He stood before her, tilted her head back and kissed her. She tasted sweet, young, new. He kissed her again. She responded with an eagerness borne of her youth and the hack. Her arms went around his neck, pulling him close against her. Adan picked her up and placed her on the bed. He kissed her lips, her chin, then her neck. He nibbled on her earlobes, tantalizing himself with the nearness of the tender skin on her throat. He moved his ministrations there, then to the top of her breasts, that were heaving now with her quick breathing. She moaned in anticipation, and abruptly Adan froze. Images of Jade filled his mind. He tried to shake them away, but they persisted. Irritated, he lowered his mouth to Breena's throat. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him closer. She didn't smell like Jade, he thought. She didn't sound like Jade. Again, he tried to dislodge thoughts of the copper-haired beauty. It was to no avail. Frustration gripped him, and he abruptly bit. But she didn't taste like Jade. Enraged, he stopped his feed, then used his magic to put Breena to sleep. She would remember nothing come morning. But him? He would remember everything. Especially the guilt. He rose, grabbed his cloak, started for the door, then turned toward the window instead. It wasn't a long drop to the ground, and he barely noticed the impact. Without a sound, he disappeared into the darkness. Fury drove his steps, and his next victim was just that – a victim, drained of their blood and left in a pitiful heap in the stench of an alley. *** Morning was again upon him when he stumbled back to the inn. He was exhausted, dizzy from the hack, but still aware enough to hear movement in his room before he opened the door. Jade greeted him with a gasp of surprise and alarm, then let out a sigh of relief. She held his pack and belongings in one hand. "What are you doing?" Adan asked, his voice tight with growing anger.

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"You must leave, M'Lord," she said quietly, hurrying toward him. She shoved his pack into his hands. "And why is that?" "Late last eve I heard the gentleman next door talking of the high rate he is paying here. He will be awake soon, and will no doubt question the proprietor. He will quickly find out he is paying for your room as well. You must leave." Adan started. He wondered how she had so easily figured it out, but he wondered more why she had warned him. "And where shall I go?" he asked. She hesitated, her fear quite obvious. Then she gripped his hand and drew him into the dark hallway. She cast a furtive glance in both directions, then guided him toward the back staircase. He followed, more curious than anything else. In moments, they were outside in the alley. "It's not far, but stay close and quiet." Adan allowed her to lead him down the alley, across an empty street, then down another alleyway. But when he saw a sign depicting a constable's office, he balked. "If this is a game, Jade, --" "No game, M'Lord," she interrupted. "This is my flat. Well, my roomie's and mine. It's not much, but it's in a safe place." She tugged at him, encouraging him up a rickety outside staircase. She was right about the flat. It wasn't much, although it was impeccably clean. It was sparsely furnished, and what was there looked old and near the end of life. In fact, the table was missing part of a leg and had been shored up with blocks of wood. There was only one chair, and Adan doubted it would hold his weight. Two iron beds seemed to be holding up opposing walls of the room as if trying to keep them from collapsing inward. The floor was bare, hard wood. Adan turned to Jade as she closed and bolted the door. "I will hear your reason for your help now," he said. She flushed. "I...I just didn't want to see you gaoled." Adan snorted. The very thought was ludicrous. How could a prison hold a man who could shapeshift into something as small as a spider? "I do not see that as being a problem," he said tightly. 140

Jade's blush deepened, and she sidled along the wall toward a brick chimney. "This is a flue from the fireplace below. If the shopkeeper lights a fire, you can have heat as well." She opened the small door and peered inside, then sighed. "Maybe later," she murmured, and shut the door. "Are you hungry?" Adan paused, hearing nothing but nervous sincerity in her voice. He eyed her. "Were you speaking of food?" The color heightened even more in her cheeks. "Aye, M'Lord, I was, but..." He waved off the rest of the sentence. "I appreciate your hospitality, Jade, but it's not necessary. I can find other accommodations." He was puzzled by the crestfallen look that swept over her face. "Unless, you...wish me not to." She sighed, and slouched into the small chair. "I'm not sure what I want, M'Lord. I just couldn't stand to see you in trouble. That man who was paying for your room... he..." She swallowed hard. "He's a dangerous man, M'Lord." "And you know this how?" "He...he's Brede's boss, M'Lord." Adan started. "Is he? And what do you think Brede would say if he knew I was here?" Jade paled, glancing nervously toward the door. "He mustn't know, M'Lord. Please." "But you said you had a roommate. Won't Brede find out anyway?" Jade gave him a quivering smile. "I'll tell Mara about you being here. She won't say anything to Brede. She's my friend. She knows I love him." She twisted her hands in her apron, and moved toward the door. "I'd best get back to my work, M'Lord. You're welcome to stay here as long as you wish." "And I'll sleep where?" Jade frowned. "I...I didn't know you...well, I thought you..." Adan laughed at that. "You thought I didn't sleep? Why wouldn't I? I get tired, just like anyone else." He almost laughed at her discomfiture. "I'll find other accommodations. But I thank you for thinking of me."

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She sighed, and turned toward the door. She gave him one last look, then slipped out. Adan hesitated, then sank onto the nearby chair. It wobbled beneath him, and he rose again to peer out the small window. He wasn't entirely sure what to do. If he used his magic to secure another room, the Vector seeking him might notice. On the other hand, perhaps the Vector had left town. Adan hadn't felt him recently. And he had kept a low profile himself. Except with the rash act of shapeshifting two days earlier. Still, if that brazen act of magic hadn't brought forth his pursuer, then perhaps nothing would. Adan relaxed, glancing towards the beds. He approached one, and drew a breath. It smelled of Jade. He sat down, one hand caressing the rough bed covering. He wanted to stay here, to wait her arrival that evening, to be with her. But knew he couldn't. Still, a brief nap would do no harm. And he was in desperate need of such. He doubted that her roommate would return until nightfall. Such was the life of a servant. He pulled the blanket over him against the chill of the room, and closed his eyes.

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Chapter 23 Baris was exhausted and hungry. He had taken his rage out on himself this time, driving his body further into the magic then he should have. The implant had once again proven its strength, preventing him from assuming any form that could have made a difference. Despite his best attempts he had not been able to shift to any bird other than a small hawk, and that was only after hours of deliberation. He had thought to fly to Erster, at least be doing something to help Jaeger in his search, but by the time he had managed to shift to that hawk body, he was too tired to fly far at all. He had given up, and resumed his Vector form to wander the dark streets of Timmora, waiting for the morning's light to rouse the citizens. Now, with a drizzly, gray morning upon him, he turned his steps toward the inn. He had almost reached it when he was again assailed by the sense of another Vector close by. He froze, slipping into the shadows, trying to get a sense of who this Vector was. But whoever it was did not want to be identified, and moved on quickly and mysteriously. Baris shook himself, and quickly retraced his steps to the inn. He found the door to his room locked, and he knocked softly, not wanting to wake Sirab should the boy be still asleep. Deirdre opened the door a moment later, her face pale. She fairly yanked Baris inside. "We're leaving," she stated. "Leaving?" "I'm going downstairs to get food. Stay here with Sirab." She started toward the door. "No!" Baris blocked her path to the door. "You're not leaving. Not until you tell me what's going on." "You cannot tell me what to do, Baris." Deirdre's voice was soft, yet full of venom. "Now move aside. I need to fetch breakfast for Sirab." Baris hesitated, then did as she asked, stepping clear of the door. She slipped from the room without another word. Baris turned at once to Sirab, who sat on the bed quietly watching him. The boy didn't look unduly upset, but there was no 143

doubting the panic in Deirdre's voice. Baris wondered if it had something to do with the Vector he had sensed moments earlier. But why? Why would another Vector in town cause such a reaction from her? Unless...unless this was her 'source', the Vector keeping her bled and bringing information from the Lair. Sirab's next words jolted him to the core. "Man go." "Man go?" Baris whispered. "What man?" Sirab pointed to the window, then climbed off the bed and toddled across the room. "Man go," he repeated, standing on tiptoe to try to peer over the windowsill. Baris went over and picked the child up. "Your eyes are better," he said quietly. He held Sirab before the window. "Does this hurt?" Sirab shook his head, then tucked it beneath Baris' chin, curling his little hands on Baris' chest. "Me fly, too." Again, the words startled Baris. "You fly? Did the man fly?" "Man go. He fly. Now me fly." Baris ruffled Sirab's dark hair. "Someday, Sirab, yes, you'll fly. Just like the man. Only better, higher, faster. You'll be a strong man, Sirab. Someday." He hugged the child to him, then looked over as Deirdre re-entered. She carried a traveling pack, as well as a bread roll, the latter of which she held out to Sirab. He wriggled free of Baris' arms to retrieve the offering, then crawled up on the bed to eat. Baris nodded at the traveling pack, obviously bulging with food. "What's that for?" "I told you. We're leaving." "Why the sudden urge to travel? We haven't yet begun to see all that this place has to offer, have we?" She ignored him, and began to gather her personal belongings. He watched her a moment longer, then leaned back on the settee. "What if I don't want to leave?" "You don't have a choice," she muttered, not looking at him. "Don't I? Tell me, Deirdre, is it Timmora that wearies you, or your Vector friend checking in on you?" 144

She froze. "What Vector friend?" "Sirab told me about him. The question is, why is he visiting you here?" "Coleus," Sirab suddenly said. Baris gasped, sitting up so fast his head spun. "What did you say?" "Man. Coleus." Sirab grinned, obviously pleased with himself. Deirdre clenched her jaw, her eyes narrowing at Sirab, but the little boy seemed not to notice. "Is this true, Deirdre?" Baris breathed. "Was it Coleus who was here?" She shrugged, though the strange look had returned to her eyes, a look Baris decided now was wild panic. "What if it was?" She folded her blouse with deliberate movements, belying her fear. "Oh, by the Sovereign," Baris muttered, rubbing at his face. "Of all the people, you have to get mixed up with...how involved is this, Deirdre? What price did you pay for his help?" "It's not involved!" she snapped, throwing the garment onto the bed. "We're friends, that's all. Just friends! He promised to help me escape that dreadful place. No price, no reward. He did it out of friendship. Why is that so hard to believe?" "Coleus does nothing out of friendship, Deirdre. He certainly wouldn't risk Darius' anger to help you leave." "Escape, Baris! Escape! Not leave. You don't know what it's like living there." "I do," he interrupted. "I grew up there." "But you're a Vector! I'm not. I need the light, Baris, the sunshine, the moon, the stars above me. I need fresh air to breathe, grass to walk on. Gods, everything at the Lair is the same. Gray, drab, and cold. Day after day. And Darius...gods! He's an old man, Baris!" "So, Coleus provided you with a break in the routine?" Baris could not keep the sarcasm from his voice. "A respite from the old man?" "Maybe he did, but that's my business!" she snapped. "Mama?" Sirab mumbled, his lower lip beginning to tremble. "Oh, gods, Sirab, not now!" she cried, and flung magic toward him. 145

Baris gasped as Sirab crumpled, fast asleep. The bread roll toppled to the floor from the child's limp fingers. Baris caught him before he followed the bread. "That's enough! You will not use magic on him again. He is not a nuisance, Deirdre. He is our son!" He lay the little boy down gently, then turned back to her. "Now, then, suppose you tell me exactly how Coleus helped you." When she remained silent, his composure fled. He gripped her by both arms and shook her. "How?" "I already told you! He was going to help me escape the Lair. That's all!" "How?" Baris roared. Deirdre started, obviously frightened by his tone of voice. "It was a sleeping potion, nothing more," she said. "I gave him a sleeping potion, that's all." "You gave who a potion?" "Darius! It wasn't anything special, just something to keep him from coming directly after me, to give me time to disappear. That's all it was, Baris. I swear! I may not have cared for him, but I didn't dislike him enough to kill him." "Kill him?" A chill swept through Baris. His thoughts whirled back to the vision he'd seen in the water - of Darius lying still as death... He caught at his breath in horror. "The Sovereign is dead?" "No, not yet. But Coleus says he's failing fast." Baris stared at her, his insides churning madly. "And you're suspect?" She chewed on her lip, averting her gaze. She opened her mouth as if to answer, then closed it again, and returned to her packing. Baris watched her in puzzlement, foreboding forming a knot in his stomach. "Does this involve me somehow?" he finally asked. She froze, not looking at him. Her voice was barely audible when she answered. "You're the suspect, Baris. Not me. That's what Coleus came to tell me." He stared at her in shock. "What?" he roared. "Quiet!" she snapped. "You'll wake the entire building." For a moment he was speechless, then he spun away for her in rage. "Perfect!"

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"I didn't plan this! Coleus did! He was going to take me away, but your arrival changed that. He decided when he sensed your arrival that you would be a better choice than him to spell me away." "Of course he did! Why would he wish to implicate himself when he had me as a scapegoat?" Deirdre rubbed her temples. "It wasn't like that! I didn't have any time to make a choice. The potion had been dispensed. I had to escape then or not at all. When Coleus sent me to you, it seemed the right solution." Baris shook his head, stunned. The right solution? Implicating him in murder without so much as a second thought? "What else will you do to me, Deirdre? How else will you ruin my life? Is it your goal to see me dead? If it is, then perhaps I can help you out there. Only I will be certain to take you with me!" She glared at him, and stuffed another bit of clothing into her pack. "We have to go. Coleus doesn't know you're here. I told him you were in Erster, helping Jaeger. It's not going to take him long to figure out that you're not. We need to be gone by the time he comes back." "Why bother?" he asked. "What?" She turned to face him, looking at him as if he were daft. "Why bother? Why don't you just let him come back, arrest me, and be done with it?" "That's ridiculous! I wouldn't turn you over to the Lair." "Why? Seems to me that would be a perfect revenge." She tightened her jaw, but said nothing. Baris narrowed his eyes in thought. There was something missing here, something wrong. He could not see her letting him stand in the way of her freedom. A sudden thought occurred to him. "Who gave the potion to Darius?" She stiffened, her silence his answer. "Coleus did, didn't he?" "Does it matter?" she asked. "How well do you know Coleus?" She seemed startled by his sudden change in conversation. "Well enough. Why?"

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"Well enough to know that he's now in charge?" Baris was actually pleased by her look of annoyance. Apparently she did know, and had already figured out his agenda. Still, Baris couldn't resist laying it all out before her in its disgusting entirety. "Coleus is the highest ranking Chosen in the Lair at the moment. He would assume command should something happen to Darius. Apparently, something has. It's obvious Coleus cares about you. You're a beautiful and powerful woman. What man wouldn't want you by his side? If Darius dies, there is no doubt that Coleus will take you as his Queen. And there will be precious little you will have to say about it. Just think, Deirdre, he will trap you in the very place he helped you escape from." "I did not kill him! If there was poison in that potion it was not put there by me." "Ah, but who knows that but you, Coleus and me? And if I am dead..." Deirdre gaped at him. "No," she whispered. "No! I am not going to be interred in that place of darkness for the rest of my life! No!" "Then he will have to kill you. He must have your silence, after all. He can't have you exposing him. So, if you are not the devoted Queen to the Sovereign, then you are a threat. A threat he must dispose of." She went pure white, and a strange strangling sound came from her throat. Baris knew that even with all of her magic, she was no match for Coleus. In fact, if it hadn't been for Coleus, she never would have extradited herself from Darius either. And now, not only had she forfeited Baris' life, but most probably her own, and their child's as well. "You're right, Deirdre," Baris said quietly. "We have to leave. But I don't know that it will matter. Most likely, it's too late for any of us." He went to the bed, scooped Sirab into his arms, and strode from the room. He didn't look back.

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Chapter 24 Adan woke much later then he'd intended. In fact, it was only the sound of the door opening that brought him upright. He barely had time to Illusion, and came face to face with a startled young woman. "Oh!" was all she said, before a smile claimed her fair face. "You must be Adan. I'm Mara. Jade told me you might be here." She closed the door behind her, and dropped her cloak, then shivered. "Brrr! I wish the old man downstairs would realize how cold we are up here." She banged on the flue cover, then opened it and shouted down. "Ey! We're freezing here. Loosen your wallet and buy some coal!" She got no answer, and shut the door, grinning. "He's a tight old man. But no matter. I've brought some food home from the inn. Are you hungry?" Adan shook his head, and stood. "I should be going anyway," he said. "I...I need to get some supplies." She cocked her head at him. "If it's hack you're needing, I have that." He started. "And what makes you think I'm looking for hack?" "Jade may have mentioned it. There's some over there in that cracked, blue jar." Curiosity got the better of him, and he lifted the lid on the jar. A small smile tugged at his lips. "This is butter." "Oh, aye, it looks that way, doesn't it." Mara giggled. She nudged him aside, and reached into the butter jar. A quick tip of her hand and the entire butter tray dislodged. At once the pungent aroma of the hack leaves filled the air. Adan could not help drawing a quick breath, his mouth watering. Still, he did not take any of the leaves. Mara looked up at him quizzically. "You don't want any?" "No." He left his answer at that and returned to sit on Jade's bed. He watched as Mara shrugged and replaced the butter tray, then set out the foodstuffs she'd brought in with her. It looked to be quite a feast and Adan wondered just how she had paid for it. As far as he knew, servants such as she didn't get much in wages. Perhaps the inn paid her in food only.

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"We've only the one chair," Mara said, "but you're welcome to have it. I'm used to either standing or sitting on the floor." "I'm not that hungry," Adan told her. She giggled again. "Not for food. Maybe for other things then?" She swayed her hips suggestively. The action sent unexplained annoyance through Adan, and he rose. "I think I'd better go. Tell Jade I will make other arrangements for shelter." "I heard about the problem at the inn," Mara said, taking a small bite from a bit of bread. Adan's irritation grew. "Does Jade tell you everything?" Mara shook her head, then nodded, then giggled again. "Just about." "Tell me something, then. Just how much of a relationship does she have with Brede?" "Brede?" Mara laughed out loud at that. "She's madly in love with him, but he couldn't care less for her. Really, it's disgusting the way she throws herself at him all of the time." She turned, picked up a sharp knife, and lobbed a chunk of cheese off the round. "So, they are not lovers?" Mara paused, then turned, the knife still in her hand. "I wouldn't call it that exactly. Brede doesn't want to hurt her feelings, so he lays with her once in a while. There's no love involved though." "Really?" Adan's thoughts spun back to the scene he'd witnessed in the livery. There had been no doubt whom had been in charge then. And it wasn't an act of selflessness that had caused Brede to act so. "Are you in love with Jade yourself?" Mara asked. "Why do you ask?" "Well, you're certainly asking a lot of questions about her." She paused a moment, then added. "Well, then here's something else you might want to know. I mean, if you're interested in her and all. She's got another man." "Indeed?" Adan kept his anger to himself. "And you know this how?" 150

"I saw them together. They came to the inn I work at. Had lunch. He seemed fairly cuddly with her, too. I don't think it was the first time they'd met, if you get my meaning." "I do indeed get your meaning. As I said, tell Jade thank you for allowing me to rest here, but I will make other arrangements for shelter." He tipped his head, and strode from the flat before she could say another word. He was aware of her gaze on his back through the window as he walked away, and tried to keep his gait nonchalant and unconcerned. But once he was out of her sight, he allowed his true anger to surface. So! Not only was Jade being commanded by Brede, it was now apparent that she had another man she cared for. Well, what did he expect? That she would drop everything, change her life for him? Damnation! Just the idea that she had another man to hold her sent Adan's jealousy spiraling out of control. Almost without thinking, he slipped into the darkness of an alley and shifted to an owl. With a screech of rage, he winged away over the city, his prey Jade.

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Chapter 25 The bonds holding Vail were taut, his body rigid, his jaw clenched. A scream was lodged in his throat, begging to be set free, yet he held it in check with fierce determination. Blood oozed from raw wrists and ankles, made so by his repeated attempts to wrest himself free of the course rope. He held his head up, trying in vain to keep it away from the stench of bedclothes wet with blood, sweat, vomit, urine, feces and semen. All his, save the last. Each savage movement Brede made sent pain shooting through Vail like fire. It coursed through his battered body, tore through his senses, and built up behind the scream like flotsam on a logjam. And finally, it had to escape. His shriek of agony ripped from his throat with the same ferocity that Brede ripped into his body. He screamed again, and again, until finally his cries of pain mingled with Brede's cries of satiation. The man collapsed on Vail's back, breathing hot air onto Vail's neck, his hands still gripping Vail's shoulders where they'd held him down. It seemed hours before Brede finally rolled free of Vail, coming to sit on the floor beside the low bed. He leaned back against the wall, panting, while Vail moaned and writhed in agony. More than once, Vail felt darkness beckon, but always it eluded him, refusing to allow him sanctuary in its embrace. "Please." Was the plaintive plea his? He stared into Brede's dark eyes and waited, licking lips cracked and dry, as his fury ebbed with anticipation. He had long ago given up on the use of his own magic to help ease his pain. Already his blood boiled with excess iron. Anymore and he would die of that alone. It was ironic but the repeated rapes had actually helped him by loosing some of the excess iron. Still, it hadn't been enough. Brede looked over at him, a leering grin on his face. "Damn, Vail," he murmured. "You're better than half the women I've been with." Vail clenched his jaw to keep from talking back. He'd done that once, and regretted it. He had the battered face to prove it. So, he kept quiet and waited. But Brede appeared to be in no hurry today. He rose and moved out of Vail's sight. Vail 152

heard water splashing, and supposed Brede was cleaning himself up. It was many long moments before Brede once more sat down beside him, this time dressed and well groomed. He held a pouch of hack, and it was to this that Vail's eyes were immediately drawn. Even though he had refused to take the drug willingly at the first, had instead had it forced down his throat, now it called to him, lured him, seduced him. It was the only thing that could take the edge off the excruciating pain that wracked his body. "You're a mess, Vail," Brede said, his voice taunting and cold. "But I've good news for you. You were right. You weren't the only one bedding my Jade." Vail blinked, the words only faintly registering in his tortured mind. He said nothing, and watched as Brede slowly undid the lacing on the hack pouch. "There was another. She's even had the audacity to let him move in with her and Mara." The name caught Vail's attention. He knew that name. But from where? Brede went on as if reading his thoughts. "You remember Mara don't you? She works at the eatery over on Killarn Street. You and Jade were there." Vail did remember. Sort of. Brede opened the bag of hack, and the aroma drifted like a lover to Vail's lips. He licked them, his heart beginning to race with need. Brede chuckled. "Yes, Jade seems to think that Mara is her best friend. Come to think of it, Mara is my best friend. She keeps me well informed. And happy. I think it might be time for her to play a larger role in my life. Don't you, Vail?" Vail tore his gaze from the hack, wondering what Brede was alluding to. It came to him slowly, invading his drug-dulled mind. "You'll kill Jade?" he managed. "Oh, heavens, no!" Brede answered at once. "She's far too useful for me to simply kill her. Still, I think she's lost that special place in my heart. You don't fault me for that, do you?" Vail said nothing, his gaze again moving to the pouch. "Please." This time he knew the plea came from him, and felt shame envelope him.

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Brede looked down at the hack pouch as if he'd forgotten he held it. "Oh, yes, your dose. I must say, Vail, I'm going to miss you being here. Still, I'll always know where to find you should the desire return." Vail stared at him in confusion. "Find me?" "Of course. I did tell you there was good news, didn't I? I'm prepared to let you go, Vail. Rather magnanimous of me, isn't it?" He winced as if the next words brought him personal pain. "Of course, there is one condition. You now work for me." "Work?" "Yes. You'll do well on the streets, Vail. A young man with your good looks, your charm, you should become my best seller in no time." "No," Vail managed, although there was no conviction in his voice. Brede chuckled. "Oh, you will. And willingly." He held up a golden ring. "This yours?" Fear fluttered through Vail as his gaze fixed on the wedding ring. His ring. He had not felt Brede remove it from his finger. "She's probably a sweet young thing," Brede went on. "It'd be a pity if I had to pay her a visit." He leaned close to Vail, his fingers curling over the ring. "Don't make me have to do that, Vail." Rage ripped through Vail, but it was a rage short-lived, dispelled by his despair, his reluctant acceptance of his situation, and his overwhelming need for the drug Brede promised. Brede laughed and banged one fist on the door. He waited until his two bodyguards had entered the room, then he leaned forward and untied the rope holding Vail's closest wrist. Vail let out a sigh of relief and drew his hand back, flexing the fingers. But even now, with Brede's face only inches from him, he didn't have the strength to fight. Instead, as if watching someone else, he saw his hand open, palm up, and extend toward Brede. The man grinned, and put several hack leaves into Vail's hand. Vail immediately brought his hand to his mouth, sucking the leaves onto his tongue. The euphoric effect was swift, and he felt the muscles in his body relax. He closed his eyes in rapture, then licked his palm, making sure to get every bit of hack 154

dust he could. He was barely aware of his other bonds being loosed, and started when Brede straightened. "Get him out of here," he told his men. "And clean this place up. It reeks." One of the men hauled Vail to his feet, but he was unable to stand on his own, and sagged in the man's grip. Brede eyed him closely, but his words were for the bodyguard. "Take him to Poppy. But take him to the river first. And get some clothes on him. We don't need that sort of attention." He studied the hack pouch in his hands, then again opened it. He took out more of the leaves, and held them forward. Vail stared at them in confusion. More? Already he was dizzy beyond belief, and numb, thankfully, wonderfully numb. But he could not refuse the second offering, and took it without complaint. Mere seconds passed before his legs gave completely out, and blackness descended over him.

He woke to darkness, frigid cold and piercing pain. He thrashed against the hands holding him, his mind once more swept to the little room of his torture. It took him a moment to realize he was in the water, being held firm against the current by a strong grip. The river water was like ice, further numbing him, as it washed away the excrement covering his body. He relaxed, reveling in just being clean for the first time in days. But his teeth were soon chattering, and he was hauled from the water. Someone pressed rough clothing into his frozen hands, and told him to dress. He did, stumbling and staggering as if he had imbibed far too much at the local pub. Finally though, he was dressed, and he looked towards the men watching. They said nothing, but each gripped one of his arms and they once more hauled him away. The walk was unbearable, each step reminding Vail of how Brede had assaulted him. He concentrated on his surroundings, but recognized no familiar landmarks. He had not the slightest idea where he was, or where he was going. He had no strength to fight, and could almost taste the iron in his mouth. He needed to be bled, of that he was sure, but by whom? His thoughts filtered to Jaeger, and he wondered where the Vector was. How long had it been? Only two days? More? It seemed an eternity. 155

He stumbled to a stop before a small, run-down building. One of the men rapped on the door, then both released him and let him collapse to the ground. Vail stared after them in confusion, as they disappeared into the darkness. He started when the door creaked open. "Ey, Poppy! Brede's done brought us 'nother one. Look lively." Vail tried to evade the man reaching for him, but was in no shape to do so, and he was near dragged into the darkness of the building. He could see nothing, but he could hear voices, and other people moving about. And then abruptly bright light assailed his senses, and he cried out, trying to shield his face. "Put him on the cot." A woman's voice floated out of the light. Vail was deposited on a sagging bed. His battered body settled into the curve of the bed, which cradled him like a child. He felt a cool hand on his, pulling it away from his face. He blinked, his eyes tearing in the light. "Douse one of them lamps," the woman said. "He's been in the cell. And get him a blanket. He's froze through." Someone obeyed her command, and Vail was finally able to open his eyes. He stared up at a pale woman, who might have been pretty in her day. But her face was too thin, her eyes too hollow, her hair too scraggly and dull. Still, when she smiled at him, he thought he had seen an angel. More tears sprang to his eyes, rolled down his face, and he fumbled for her hand as someone covered his shivering form with a blanket. When she took his cold hand in hers, he burst into sobs. It was many long moments before she spoke again. "You're a handsome one beneath them bruises," she murmured, stroking his forehead with her free hand. "Tch, how did you ever fall into that devil's grasp?" Vail couldn't answer, mesmerized by the glint of light in her eyes. Blue, he decided, blue like the heavens. "Where?" he managed, although his throat threatened to close over the word. "Tch, never you mind where you are now," she said. "You're safe for the time being. My name's Poppy. These here are my servants, Slate and Pine."

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"Servants my ass!" one of the men growled, but there seemed to be no animosity in the words. Poppy giggled. "Over there's Willow, Rain and Brooke." "Jaeger," Vail moaned. "Is that your name?" Vail tried to shake his head. It wouldn't seem to move. Nor would his tongue now. He felt as if a great weight were suddenly pressing him down, holding him still, making any movement impossible. In fact, it felt hard to breathe, to make his chest rise and fall. A strange, gurgling sound escaped him, and Poppy's eyes went wide. "Slate! Pine! Get him up! He's suffocating!" The two men responded at once, grabbing Vail and hauling him to his feet. At once, his lungs expanded, and he sucked in a great gasp of welcome air. His head reeled, and he stared at Poppy through eyes fogged with black spots. "Sakes!" she whispered. "How much hack did he give to you? You'll have to stay on your feet for a while, just until some of the hack wears off. Otherwise you won't be able to breathe. I'm sorry." She bobbed her head at the two men, and they dragged Vail across the room. Both arms were pulled wide, and looped over rounds of wood that protruded from the wall. The wooden poles were slanted sharply toward the ceiling making sliding off impossible. Cloth was tied to Vail's raw wrists, then looped about his thighs, keeping him effectively upright. Once again he was bound, enslaved, a prisoner. But for what purposes this time? He drew in several shuddering breaths, and stared at Poppy in resignation. "Why?" he managed, and tears again filled his eyes. "Oh, poor, wee one," she cooed, and brushed the air from his face. "You've got to stand, or you'll die. It won't be for long, I promise, then we'll get you into a bed, and let you rest." She went back to the bed, picked up the blanket and returned to Vail. "We don't have a fire here, I'm afraid. And I won't ask you to strip from your wet clothes. You've been humiliated enough." She draped the blanket around him, tucking

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it in securely so that it would stay in place. "Poor wee one," she whispered again, then unexpectedly leaned forward and kissed him lightly on the forehead. Vail sobbed once, and fainted.

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Chapter 26 Adan woke early, too uncomfortable to stay asleep. He sat up, then stood, brushing stray bits of plant matter from his clothing. He had slept the night in the high mountain meadows, the same place he had met Jade. Although he had indeed found her the previous night, he had been too upset and confused to confront her about anything. He had thought it wiser to merely remove himself from the whole situation. Now, here he was, high above Erster, alone. His gaze turned to the village, and he sighed, then rubbed at his face with one hand. He should leave, go somewhere else, find another place to call home. Jade had her lover, someone who cared for her. She didn't need him. But, by the Sovereign, how he needed her. A soft growl of frustration escaped his lips. He would check in on her, at least see her. Even if she wasn't aware of his presence, he needed to see her. He stretched, then winced as his stiff muscles protested. Well, nothing that a good dose of hack wouldn't solve. And he knew right where to get it. He shifted into a fox, and streaked down the hillside. He reached town quickly and exhilarated from the run. He shifted in mid-stride to a common alley cat and raced toward Jade's flat. He reached it just as the door opened. Brede stepped onto the landing, Mara hanging onto him like a cloak. Adan watched as the woman placed long, lingering, wet kisses on Brede's lips. Brede seemed in no hurry to end the intimacy, but finally he disengaged himself from Mara's arms, and pushed her gently away. "I'll see you later," he said quietly. "I don't have to tell you again how pleased I am with your help." "Actions speak louder than words, M'Lord," she purred, pressing against him again. He chuckled, tipped her head back with one finger and kissed her. "And haven't my actions shouted their thanks already?" She giggled. "They have, M'Lord, oh, but they have. Still, I could do with a bit more shouting, if you get my meaning." 159

"I do. Perhaps later we can shout together." Brede laughed again, then turned and descended the steps. Adan shrank into the shadows, his ire for the man increasing by the moment. "M'Lord," Mara called. "What should I tell Jade about her young lover?" Brede hesitated at the bottom of the steps, looking back up at her. "Tell her he was adequate. No. More than adequate. After all, I did let him live." Brede gave a cold laugh, and sauntered away. Adan frowned, wondering what he meant by his words, but shook it off and turned his attention on Mara. She was leaning on the landing railing, watching after Brede, a look of smug satisfaction on her face. Adan wondered where Jade was, why she was not home at this early hour. He didn't remember what time her shift started at the inn, but he had seen her there during the daylight hours. Well, no matter. Mara seemed easy with answers and information. He slid from the shadows to the bottom of the staircase. A plaintive meow caught Mara's attention. She looked down at him with a surprised smile. "Oh, hello, kitty. Aren't you a handsome thing?" She bent and held out her hand, encouraging him closer. Adan hesitated a moment, as if playing coy, then slowly climbed the steps. "Come on then, " Mara cooed. "I'll bet I could find you some milk or meat inside. Are you hungry?" He meowed again, enjoying the tease, keeping just out of reach of her fingers. She sighed and straightened, turning toward the door. Adan darted forward and wrapped himself around her legs, momentarily tangling with the silky lingerie she wore. She giggled. "So, then, you will join me for breakfast?" She held the door wide to allow him to enter. He did so, leaping directly onto Jade's bed, where he rolled and stretched, reveling in her scent once again. Mara laughed, and went towards the small icebox in the corner. While she had her back turned, Adan sat up and allowed himself to shift back

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into his Vector form. She dropped the bottle of milk when she turned back to face him. The color on her face matched the spilled liquid. "Good morning," he said, unable to stop the small smile that caught at his lips. "Wh...where did you come from?" Mara managed. "Why, I believe you invited me in." "You? But I..." Her gaze shot to the now closed door, then back to him. "The cat? You were the cat?" He shrugged. "One of my talents, shall we say." He cocked his head toward her. "You don't recognize me, do you?" "I...I know what you are, yes," she stammered. "But what about who I am?" He paused, then shifted into the same guise he'd used the first time he'd met her. A gasp escaped her. "You...you're Jade's friend," she breathed. "You were here." She drew a deep breath, obviously trying to calm her nerves. "Well, what do you want here? Jade's not here." "I can see that. Where is she?" "How would I know? She didn't come home last night. She's most likely with her young lover." "Liar." The word was soft, yet cold as ice. Adan rose and approached her, abandoning his Illusion. Mara caught her breath. "I...I'm not. I...I mean, I can't be for sure that's where she is, but..." She let out a squeal of alarm as gripped her by one arm. "You told Brede about the young man. It didn't sound as if Brede was very happy with him being around Jade. Now then, suppose you tell me what you know of the young man, and what you know of Jade." Mara winced in pain as he pressed her arm backwards. "I...I don't know much, M'Lord." She let out another squeal of pain. "The boy, his name was Vail." "Was?" "Is. He...he's still alive. Brede said so."

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The words chilled Adan. To think that Brede might kill a man merely for being seen with Jade... "And what did you tell Brede of me?" "Nothing!" she said at once. "Liar," he said again, and this time he allowed himself to hypnotize her. She stared up at him, her eyes glassy. He released his hold on her arm, and sat down in the rickety chair. "Explain." "He knows about you, M'Lord. But once he knows what you are, it's not likely he'll take you on. You don't have to worry about that." "I was hardly worried about it," Adan said dryly. He suddenly noticed the way the vein in her neck was throbbing, keeping time with the beating of her heart. His mouth watered, and he licked dry lips. "Go on. Where is Jade?" "She's working the evening shift as well as the morning shift, M'Lord." "Why?" "For the money. She owes Brede a goodly amount. She has to pay it back." "What does she owe him money for?" Mara shrugged. "He's been keeping her, M'Lord. This place, the clothes she wears, the food she eats, the hack." Adan looked over the sparse surroundings of the room. It seemed Jade should certainly earn enough on her wages to support herself in such dismal surroundings. It was obvious her wages were going to line Brede's pockets instead. But why? Why would she give her money to the man? There was only one answer, and it grated on Adan's nerves. She was scared of him, willing to do anything to keep him happy. And she had tried to rationalize her fear by convincing herself she loved him. A sudden thought swept through his mind. "Does Jade carry Brede's child?" Mara gasped, her eyes widening. "H...how did you know?" Adan ignored the question, tossing out one of his own. "Does Brede know?" Mara nodded. "I only just told him. This morning." "And what will he do about it?" 162

"Pr...probably have her washed." Adan felt his stomach lurch. Washed? A salt-water wash was meant to destroy the growing child. He had heard it was both painful and dangerous to the woman. He had to find Jade before that could happen. But first there were things here to attend to. He rose, towering over Mara. "Fetch the hack." She did as told, tipping the butter dish out of the jar, then holding the jar forth like a gift of appeasement. Adan tossed her a cold smile. "Take it." A frown crossed her face, but she could not disobey his command. He waited until he saw the euphoric effects wash over her countenance, then he drew her to him and fed.

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Chapter 27 Jaeger paced the small holding cell, hands clenched into fists at his side. Baul looked up at him from where he sat, leaning against the cold stone wall. "You're wasting energy. Sit down." "I have to get out of here, Baul. I have to find Vail. Something is dreadfully wrong. I can feel it." "Well, you aren't going anywhere for a while." Jaeger stopped his pacing and looked down at the young Vector. "He hasn't been bled for four days. If he's using his magic to search for me, he'll --" "He's smarter than that, Jaeger. He won't look for you that way. Now, sit down." Jaeger hesitated, then did as Baul suggested, settling down next to the man. The cold of the stone beneath him seeped through his clothing, chilling him further. "Darius is right," he grumbled. "The Lair is too damned cold." Baul gave a wry chuckle. "It's a hundred times warmer than it was with Cardiss." "And it'll fall back into his way if Coleus manages to take over," Jaeger pointed out, his voice grim. "I have to get out of here." "Think a moment. If Darius dies, Coleus will be in charge. He wouldn't think anything of putting you to tribunal and death. You know that. And even if Darius does live, if you break out of here, you'll have defied the governing Sovereign. You'll still be punished." Jaeger glared at him, then surged to his feet. "So be it then!" he raged. "I have to find Vail! But I'll not implicate you further, Baul." Baul scrambled to his feet. "Hold on a moment there, Jaeger. I'm not staying behind. If you're going for Vail, I'm coming with you." "You can't!" "I can! And I will. Have you forgotten that Vail is one of my closest friends? If he's in trouble, I'm going to help him out of it." "And if I command you otherwise? Do remember, I outrank you here, if by nothing else than age alone." 164

A small smile tugged at Baul's mouth. "Yes, I know, but you're only a hundred years older, and I'm in my defiant youth." The words startled Jaeger, but he tried to remain firm. "If I commanded you?" he pressed. "I would take your suggestion into careful consideration, based on your knowledge and your position," Baul said slowly. He clasped his hands behind his back, then again smiled. "And then you'd ignore me anyway, right?" Baul nodded, the smile never leaving his face. Jaeger studied the Vector, then gave a terse nod. "Very well. I can't promise the outcome of this insubordination, but I'll do my best." Baul gave him a puzzled glance, then shrugged. "I know the outcome well enough. But I'm willing to face it. Where do we go?" "Not back to Erster. Not straight away. That's the first place Coleus will look. What was the name of that other city by Erster? You were there." "Timmora? Better yet, why don't we pay a visit to Quentin? Isn't he an Elder Chosen? Wouldn't he outrank Coleus? That might prove useful." Jaeger was silent a moment, hesitant to involve another Vector in the whole unpleasant situation. Yet, Baul had been correct in his assessment. Although Jaeger didn't know Quentin personally, he did know the name. And he knew the man's position in the Lair. He would certainly be able to usurp Coleus. Should he wish to. And therein lay the problem. Still, there wasn't much other direction to be had. By leaving the Lair without permission, Jaeger and Baul were defying the commanding Vector, and they would need someone to support their decision. Jaeger couldn't rely on his blood ties to Darius. Even if the man were his grandfather, it was not common knowledge. He sighed, and nodded. "You may be right. Let's pay a visit to Quentin. You know the way. But I don't want to go directly there. No sense in casting a clean trail straight to Quentin." Baul grinned. "Then I know just the thing. I happen to know that several dozen Vectors are planning a Gathering in Langdon. If we Spell into their midst first, Coleus 165

is going to be hard-pressed to sort our magic from theirs. We can stay for a while, then spell to Quentin's." "A Gathering?" Jaeger thought on it a moment. He'd been to only one such Gathering in his long lifetime. It reminded him of a feeding orgy. It was more a show of power than anything else. It wasn't only the Vector men who found Gatherings exciting, either. There would be dozens of Vector women involved. And just as many, if not more, humans, both men and women. Often the humans died, bled to death by accident or intent. It wasn't something Jaeger had ever found appealing, and his halfbreed status had seemed to shine clearly when surrounded by so many pure Vectors. He wasn't altogether sure he would be welcome now, after so many years of ignoring such socials. Still, Baul's plan held merit. And what was the alternative? To stay here, to face trumped up charges, to let Vail fall to whatever might have happened? He sighed and nodded. "Very well, but if we can do this at a time Coleus is pre-occupied, it would be to our benefit." Baul frowned. "Pre-occupied?" His frown grew. "He has been. He's been leaving the Lair frequently. I assumed it was to hunt for Baris. But maybe there's more to it than that." "Explain." Baul pulled him back to the ground, his words soft, as if he thought the holding cell might be monitored. "There's a rumor in the Lair that Coleus is involved with Lady Deirdre." "But I thought you said she disappeared with Baris." "She did, but what if Coleus and the Lady set this whole thing up? What if they decided to do away the Sovereign and rule together?" "You're suggesting a coup?" Baul shrugged. "It's not like it would be the first time. And think about it. Who would Lady Deirdre love to have revenge on?"

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"Baris," Jaeger murmured, sagging. As if the woman hadn't put the man through enough already. He shook his head. "We need to find out for sure. I am not going to let Baris be the scapegoat for any scheme of hers. But first, I need to find Vail." Baul nodded his agreement. "Then we'll just keep tabs on Coleus. The moment he leaves the Lair, we'll take our departure as well." "Agreed." Jaeger leaned back, his senses already probing the Lair for Coleus' whereabouts. He could tell the Vector was there. Hopefully he wouldn't remain for too much longer. He cast a sidelong glance at Baul. "By the way, I'm not even close to a hundred years older than you are. Remember that." Baul smiled, and settled back to wait.

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Chapter 28 Vail moaned and opened his eyes to gray light. He had been removed from the wall rack only hours earlier. Poppy had deemed him well enough to breathe while lying down, and he was immensely thankful for that. His underarms were bruised, his shoulder muscles aching from the near hanging position he'd been in for so many hours. Even though pain was a constant companion now, at least he could take easy breaths. He turned his head, and was immediately sorry, as dizziness swept over him. He gagged, nausea plucking at his gut, but knew there was nothing to bring up. He didn't even remember the last food he'd had. Or the last sip of water. He was disoriented and lethargic, and guessed about only half of his condition was due to the hack. The other half was due to the iron that raged through his blood, and to his injuries. "Ah, you're awake." Poppy's voice floated through the musty air, and she moved into his view, a smile on her face. "I expect you're hungry, too?" Vail tried to shrug, then winced. "Well, I'm not about to heave an abundance of food into your gut just yet," she went on, sitting on the floor beside him. "Cides, I don't have an abundance to heave." She laughed at her own silliness. Vail couldn't help but smile, and he looked into her blue eyes. "Thank you." His voice sounded odd, dry and raspy, as if he hadn't used it for months. "Don't thank me yet," she said. "You're not out of the woods. Here." She held a small spoon toward his parched lips. Soup. His mind registered that much, although he couldn't taste any particular flavor. He let the warm liquid trickle into his mouth and down his throat. Poppy was thrifty and gave him only another few spoonfuls, before setting the broth aside. He looked up at her, confused. "A little at a time," she said. "We need to make sure it stays put. An episode of retching could be your last." She turned and produced another small bowl, this one

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filled with water. She dipped a bit of cloth into it, wrung it out and, wiped gently at his face. "So, are you up to telling me your name yet?" "Vail," he croaked. "Vail, is it? That's a nice name. A strong name. Men should have strong names." "Like Slate and Pine?" She laughed. "Those are their street names. When you live with hack as your Lord, your previous life, and name, are no longer important." She turned to yet a third container and helped him take a sip of tepid water. "But Slate? Pine?" "Slate chose it because he said it was the first thing he saw after waking from a drunk one day. He followed the drunk with hack. Pine, well, Pine," she laughed, "he said his father used to call him dumber than a pine box." Vail winced, wondering how any man could berate his own child so. "And you? Poppy?" She was quiet for a moment. "It's just a name." "It's a flower. A beautiful flower." She actually blushed, and quickly changed the subject. "You mentioned another name earlier. Jaeger. Who's that?" "My friend." "And where is he?" "I don't know. I was looking for him. I found Jade." The answer exhausted him, and he fell back with a soft moan. "Aye, Jade." "You know her?" "Aye, I do." The answer was filled with soft resignation. "So, that's what this is all about? You messing around with Brede's woman?" "No!" He answered with as much strength as he had, then flinched as pain rolled through him. "No. I only talked to her." "Well, Brede musta thought there was more to it than that to beat you up so."

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Vail looked at her solemnly. Beat him up? Yes, there had been that. But it hadn't been Brede. It had been his two men. The memory was etched in his mind. But the memory of the other acts of savagery Brede had inflicted upon him were burned into his soul. He would find the man, and he would make him pay. He shuddered suddenly as a tremor shook his body. Gods! He knew this! He'd watched Baris in the throes of addiction and withdrawal. He'd heard the man beg for an end to the torment, plead with Vail and Baul to kill him. He shuddered again, and turned his gaze away from Poppy. He didn't want to beg, but it was obvious his eyes did what his tongue would not. "It's time, Vail," Poppy said quietly, and before he could stop her, she placed several hack leaves into his mouth. They dissolved instantly, and he instinctively liked his lips, taking in all that the powerful drug offered. The effects swept over him, moving from his head to his toes like a warm blanket, driving the pain from his body, relaxing stiff muscles, centering his thoughts. He hated what it did to him. And he loved it. "Better?" Poppy asked. He nodded, surprised to find that he could do so with no pain. A sigh of relief escaped him. "I don't want it though." She scoffed at that. "None of us want it, Vail, but it owns us. We no longer have a say in the matter. Here, more soup." She held the spoon forth again, and this time gave him a bigger serving. Each mouthful seemed to increase his strength, so much so, that he tried to sit up. He fell back with a loud cry of pain, and rolled to one side to relieve the pressure on his backside. He lay gasping, sweating, trying desperately to keep the soup in his stomach. He needed this sustenance, he needed this strength. He closed his eyes and instinctively reached for his magic. He had intended only a small spark of magic to calm the agony, but once he was enveloped in the comforting embrace, he found it difficult to release it. He shuddered again, and let his head droop wearily to the bed. "Vail?" Poppy touched at his face in question. He reached up and snagged her hand. "I'm fine. Really. I'll be fine." 170

"You're not fine. You're sweating, and shivering at the same time. There's something else going on besides the hack." She paused a moment, chewing on her lip, then her face went blank with sudden revelation. "Brede used you didn't he? And they threw you in the river, didn't they?" He winced, closing his eyes. "Oh, by the gods." Her voice carried such resignation, he looked up at her. "Vail, you're probably going to get infected. In fact, most likely you already are. The river is a cesspool. And with open wounds..." She shook her head as if she had already written his epitaph. Open wounds? Humiliation once more swept over him. Open wounds? Yes. Brede had been violent in his frequent attacks, savage. He had not given Vail any time to heal, barely time to stop bleeding. And he had provided nothing for cleanliness, nothing for the pain. Save the hack. The hack that now held Vail's life so firmly in its grasp. "I'll get help for you," Poppy said quickly. "I know where --" "No!" He reached out to grab at her arm. "No! No one is to know of this." He heard Baris' laments in his voice, and cringed. Only Baris had wished his addiction kept a secret, no more. Vail's secret was far greater. Yet, Poppy knew. So did Brede's two bodyguards. That was enough. Vail couldn't stand the embarrassment of anyone else. "Vail," Poppy said, seeming to read his thoughts. "I've a friend. He knows about this. He's certainly seen it enough times. Please, let him help you." "I've no money," Vail protested. "He never asks for money." "Then why does he help?" She shrugged. "Sometimes people are just nice. It doesn't happen often, but sometimes people are just nice." Vail studied her a moment, then reached out to take her hand. "Yes, sometimes they just are," he agreed, and hoped she caught his meaning. He couldn't bring himself to tell her he was a witch. He had seen what that information could do. He 171

had almost died because of it. No, better to let her think his illness was due to infection. He would just have to find a way to bleed himself. When he was strong enough to do so. His eyelids drooped wearily. When he was strong enough.

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Chapter 29 Baris stopped, and waited for Deirdre to catch up to him. She struggled up the small rise, reaching him with a sigh of relief. Still, there was no complaint on her lips this time. At least, not until she saw the village ahead of them. "What?" She whirled on him. "What are we doing here?" He shrugged. "I thought maybe we could ask for help." "From Quentin? Are you mad?" She turned and started away. He stopped her with a firm grip. "He may be our only hope, Deirdre. He outranks Coleus. We may be safer with him than anywhere else. At the least, I wish to put Sirab into his care. Now, come on." Deirdre gaped at him. "No! Don't you remember the last time we were here? He practically threw us out of town himself." "We were rude. We intruded on his gala without introduction or invitation. What did you expect him to do?" "I don't want to go there," she insisted. "Fine. You stay here. I'll go on alone." He released his hold on her and started away. "Bye," Sirab called, looking over Baris' shoulder. He waved. Baris almost laughed. He could just imagine Deirdre's face as she watched her son and former lover disappear. He was not surprised when she finally fell into step alongside him. She was quiet for a long time, although her face was set in a mask of rage and trepidation. Baris knew how she felt. He was feeling much the same. Not only had he invaded Quentin's party, but he had nearly killed a man there. He had not listened to Quentin's warnings about Deirdre's spells, he had not apologized to the man for his actions. He had been too embarrassed. Even when he found out that Quentin had helped Anika, had nursed her back to health, he had held more jealousy then gratitude. He and Anika had reunited at Quentin's home, but had not been back there since. It was still too painful for Baris. Painful and degrading. All Quentin knew of him was that he was a drug addict, that he had run out on his wife, 173

and that he had fathered an illegitimate child. And Deirdre? He knew her as a powerful witch who had wrapped Baris so tightly in her magic that he had been willing to kill innocent men for her. And now? Now Baris was prepared to march straight up to the Vector's house and once more request assistance? He wouldn't blame the man if he shut the door in his face, and requested Lair Guards to escort both him and Deirdre to the cells. Baris couldn't let that happen. No matter what Quentin might think of him and Deirdre, there was Sirab to consider. And Baris doubted that Quentin could turn his back on a mere child. Especially a child showing so much Vector strength. Still, the thought of leaving Sirab drove daggers through his heart, and he hugged the child to him as he walked, trying to memorize everything he could about his son. His thoughts turned to Anika, Thale and Aysha. Would he ever see them again? Would he be destined to spend his life on the run from Coleus? Or would his life be forfeit at Tribunal? He wouldn't drag Anika or his children through any more of the turmoil that seemed destined to follow him. But who then would protect Aysha? Help her develop her nightsight? Understand it? Accept it? Did he even accept it? He would go to his grave with the heavy knowledge that he had done this to his precious child. The guilt was enough to bring sudden tears to his eyes, and he swallowed hard to avoid sobbing outright. What sort of Vector was he? Perhaps Cardiss had been right. Perhaps Vectors weren't meant to marry, have children, raise them as humans did. The bond of parenthood drove too deep, it interfered with the cold, detached, self-centered world of a Vector. A world Baris had been a part of for so long. And now could no longer. His thoughts went again to Quentin. The man had no such attachments. His station in life had been acquired through Vector magic. He took blood from victims, not lovers. He was powerful, sure of himself, in control. And alone. Baris actually winced at that thought. Quentin was alone in that huge house. He had no one to turn to at odd hours of the night, no one to divulge his greatest desires to, his secret yearnings. No one to hold him out of love. Baris wondered if Quentin could even provide a place for Sirab. Not a brick and mortar place, but a place of love 174

and acceptance. A place where Sirab could be the warm, loving child he was. Baris had to give Deirdre credit for that. He doubted very much that Darius had provided the child with any sort of fatherly attention. Then again, he didn't know the Sovereign that well. It wasn't his place to pry into Darius' private life. A life he hoped would continue for a goodly number of years. He sighed again, wondering just how ill Darius was. Deirdre's soft voice startled him from his reverie, bringing him back to the fore with a sharp jolt. "What if Quentin turns us over to Coleus?" she whispered. "Why should that matter to you? I thought Coleus loved you." She glared at him. "I never said that!" "But he does care for you? The way I see it, I have much more to fear from Coleus than you do." He glanced sideways at her, but she was staring straight ahead, and he wondered what was going on inside her pretty head. "You'll have to use magic to get into town, Baris," she said. "Or you'll be far too noticeable. And if you use magic, Coleus will be able to find you. How do propose getting around that?" Baris had thought of that as well. But he supposed it would be the same in any town. He could not enter as a Vector. Whoever did not run screaming for the hills, would certainly be plotting ways to kill him. If Coleus didn't hone in on him first. He pointed toward a thick stand of trees. "We'll stay there until nightfall. If I remember Quentin's home correctly, it's bordered on one side by woods. We'll do the same thing we did before and slip in through the hedges." Deirdre's steps slowed, until finally she was at a standstill. Baris turned to look at her, surprised by the look of despair on her face. She looked lost, frightened, completely vulnerable. He had to convince himself that she had far more magic than he had ever witnessed, and that what he had witnessed was quite enough. "What's wrong?" he asked, maintaining his distance. "It doesn't matter, Baris. I'll never be free. I'm tied to the Lair by Sirab. Darius will never let me go."

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"Do remember it was your actions that put you there in the first place." He expected anger, and was truly shocked to see only grim resignation in her dark eyes. "I know," she murmured. "Nothing has ever come easy for me, Baris. Nothing. I worked hard at learning my magic. But it was never good enough. I fell in love with the wrong man. More than once. I don't seem to make very good choices, Baris." "Then perhaps it's time you started trying to," he told her. He was uncomfortable with this change in demeanor. It made it harder for him to steal his heart against her, to keep her away. Looking at her now, standing in the middle of the road, dirty and sweaty, all of her belongings tied into one single pack, her hair clinging to her pale face - it made him want to comfort her, to ease her burdens, to tell her everything would be all right. But he didn't know that it would. He had been implicated in Darius' illness, and if the Sovereign died, he could very well be put to death for it. And if Deirdre rejected Coleus, her fate could be the same. And then, what would happen to Sirab? To lose both his mother and his father at such an early age would be devastating to the child. Baris suddenly chuckled. How odd. He had grown up without knowledge of his own mother or father, a product of the careful Vector breeding plan. And here he was worrying over his son growing up the same way. Still, the thought of putting Sirab into the Lair under the care and guide of a man like Coleus was unthinkable. He had to make sure that didn't happen. And he wasn't so certain Quentin was the right choice either. Perhaps Jaeger and Rhiannon...or Vail and Honey. "We could split up," he said. "I could take Sirab and --" "No!" she interrupted. "You are not walking away and leaving me out here alone." He found it sad that her main concern was not losing her son, but losing her protection. "You have your magic, Deirdre. You should be able to --" "No!" she cried again. "Why, Deirdre, are you frightened?" He could not keep the sarcasm from his voice. "Of course, I'm frightened! Any sane person would be! I told you, I will not go back to the Lair! Ever. And no one can make me. Not even Coleus." 176

Baris shook his head, a resigned chuckle erupting from him. "You still don't understand, do you? Coleus owns you. He tricked you into doing his dirty work. It doesn't matter that I'm his scapegoat, Deirdre. Every waking moment, and even the sleeping ones, you'll have to be on your guard. And when Coleus tires of you, or tires of worrying about your mouth and your magic, he'll dispose of you. And you'll find your final resting place in the cold, dark confines of the Lair." Her eyes had gone wide, her face pale, and at his last words, a shriek escaped her that nearly sent Baris to his knees. Sirab started violently, then broke into his own screams of terror. He wrapped his arms and legs around Baris, holding to him fiercely, burying his face against Baris' shoulder, his sobs shuddering through him. "That will not happen, Baris," Deirdre seethed, her dark eyes wild with hatred. "Ever." She stepped away from him, whispered words floating on the air. Baris stumbled backward in terror as magic began to swirl around him. But it was not witchery magic, not completely. It was a strange combination of Vector, witchery and something he could not define. It was obvious Deirdre had spent her time in the Lair studying. It was just as obvious she was now using that magic for her own purposes. He felt Sirab move in his arms, and realized with a start that Deirdre was trying to wrest control of the boy. Why, he didn't know. Especially when she'd only just put thoughts of him aside. Perhaps she too knew of the child's magical prowess, and she expected to use it. He didn't know, and he wasn't about to let his child become nothing more than a pawn in her twisted games. "No!" he cried, and tightened his hold on the child. "Let him go!" Deirdre demanded. "No! He is not yours!" "Mama go!" Sirab suddenly shrieked, his gasping sobs nearly obscuring the words. Vector magic shot outward, slamming against the strange spell Deirdre had created. And in a breath, she vanished, her pull on Sirab snapping like a whip. Baris was thrown backward to land on his backside in the dust. Sirab still clung to him, sobbing wildly.

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For a moment Baris was too stunned to do more than lie there, holding his son tightly against his chest. Then he sat up, staring at the empty space where Deirdre had been. Slowly, he brought his gaze to meet Sirab's. The little boy's chest heaved with his gasping breaths, and tears wet his face. Baris reached up and gently brushed them away. "Mama go," Sirab said again, and sagged against Baris, spent. "Yes," Baris whispered. "But go where?"

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Chapter 30 Adan scowled and glanced again toward Jade's flat. He had not seen the woman all day, and worry mingled with anger. Was she not heeding his call because she couldn't or because she wouldn't? He chastised himself again for not following Brede that morning. After Mara's words about how Brede would handle Jade's pregnancy, he should have made that his priority. Instead, he had been once again seduced by hack. For the first time in years, he actually thought about the hold the drug had over him. And he realized he had begun to loathe it. He didn't want his life controlled by when he would be able to get his next fix. He no longer wanted to prowl the dark alleys and undesirable districts of a town. He wanted to live in the light, with a proper income, and a woman by his side who promised him love and tenderness. A woman like Jade. He shook the thought aside, and shifted his position yet again, but no matter how many times he moved, the ground was hard and cold. He had been sitting in this alleyway for hours, waiting. True, most of his morning had been spent sleeping in Jade's flat, with an unconscious Mara nearby. He had needed the rest, and he had relished in sleeping on coverlets filled with Jade's scent. But after noon, when Jade still had not returned, he had gone in search. He had not found her at the inn, but then again, he had to move warily to avoid questions from an all too alert staff. From what he could gather, they were waiting for him to return, to try to re-enter the room he had used. Fools. If he didn't wish to be seen, he would not. And so, he had walked right past them, Illusioned as a quite different looking man then the one they sought. The afternoon had been spent in the high meadows on the off chance Jade would make the climb for more hack. But she had not shown up there either. And so Adan had returned to her home, to wait. Now, with the darkness of night upon him, he battled concern and fear. A sudden movement near the stairs caught his attention, and he rose, his stiff muscles complaining bitterly. A dark-cloaked figure stole from the shadows, hesitated at the foot of the stairway, then began to laboriously climb. Each step seemed agony, 179

and the figure paused more than once, before resuming the arduous task of reaching the landing. Puzzled, Adan shifted to a cat once again, and padded silently after the figure. He had just reached the middle of the stairs when a muffled moan came from the now open doorway of the flat. Giving up any pretense, he bounded to the landing, and slid past the figure into the room, then whirled toward the figure as it collapsed, clawing at the doorframe in a desperate attempt to keep upright. The hood fell back, and Adan gasped. Jade! He immediately shifted back to his Vector form, and hurried to her side. She looked up at him, green eyes glassy with shock and disbelief. Before she could protest, he scooped her up in his arms and placed her gently on her bed. Her face was a ghastly white, and beaded with sweat. The bruises stood out in marked contrast. Adan touched at them gently, then loosed the tie of the cloak at her throat. A soft sob escaped her, and she clutched at his arm. "Where were you?" The question startled him. "I...I was out," he stammered. "I needed you. I needed your help. I called but you didn't come." Her sobs intensified, her chest heaving with each gasping breath. Adan wasn't sure what to do. He moved away from her, found some water, and brought it to her. He had no cloth, but wet an edge of his own sleeve and dabbed her forehead. "Why did you call me?" "He's gone. Brede has him. He'll kill him. I need your help to find him. Please." "Who?" Adan asked, although he had a suspicion. "Vail." "Vail," Adan repeated, feeling as if he had been stabbed through the heart. "Who is Vail?" "I don't know. I only just met him. He was at the inn. I burned his toast. My boss hit me and then let me go. Vail..." she drew a gasping breath, wincing in pain. "Vail was going to walk me home." Relief surged through him. So, Vail was no more than a friend, a newly acquired friend at that. He forced his thoughts back to her words. "Your employer hit you? These are his marks?" 180

"No, only one. Brede...he...I..." She stopped, then broke into heavier sobs, clutching at his sleeve as if he was the only one who could console her. "Brede hit you?" Adan breathed. She nodded, then shook her head. "But it was my fault. I was with Vail at the eatery. I shouldn't have been. It was my own fault." Adan bristled with anger. "It was your own fault? You are hit because you have lunch with a gentleman? Where is Brede? Perhaps we should have a talk." "No! You have to find Vail! Please. Brede will kill him. He told me so." "I do not know who this Vail is. How would I be able to find him in a city this size?" "I know where he is, but I can't go there." She sniffed, trying to calm herself. "I could tell you." She shuddered suddenly, and a whimper escaped her. Adan started, his gaze assessing her quickly. "Why are you in pain?" "It's nothing. Please." Mara's words flooded back to Adan, and he touched lightly at Jade's abdomen. "Your child?" She stared at him in surprise, then her face crumpled once again. "Gone," she whispered. "Gone." Rage tore through Adan. Not so much at the fact that she no longer carried Brede's child, but at the fact that he had done this to her. "You need assistance," he said flatly. "No. I'll be fine. I just need rest." She shook his arm, although there was little strength in the action. "But you have to find Vail. Please!" He sighed, knowing that she would not give in until he had met her demands. And if truth be told, he was curious about this man whom Jade seemed so eager to help. He would find this Vail, then he would come back and he would find Brede. He nodded. "Where do I go?"

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Chapter 31 Baris licked dry lips and reached out a trembling hand to rap on the enormous door before him. Sirab slept in his arms, his sweaty forehead pressed into Baris' throat. Baris had made good time to Quentin's home, driven by terror. Terror of what would happen should Deirdre return, terror of what would certainly happen when Coleus tracked Sirab's explosive use of Vector magic. Baris had no idea what he would say to Quentin, how he would convince the man to help him, to safe keep Sirab, but he had to try. He waited impatiently, listening to the echo of his knocking on the other side of the door. He was about to knock again, when the door was opened. Quentin stood on the other side, a startled look on his lean face. His gaze shifted at once to Sirab, and without a word, he snagged Baris by the arm and dragged him into the house. The door closed with a resounding boom. Baris wasn't sure what to make of Quentin's actions, but he bowed as low as he could while not waking Sirab, paying homage to the Elder before him. "Friend Vector," he began. "I apologize --" "Never mind the formalities," Quentin interrupted. "Was that him?" "What?" "That use of magic a few hours ago. Out near the road. Was that him?" He gestured at Sirab. Baris swallowed hard, but nodded. He should have known that Quentin would be aware of what had happened. He wasn't an Elder Chosen for no reason. Still, it wounded his pride that Quentin had not even suspected that Baris had thrown that blast of magic. He had honed straight in on the child. Baris drew a slow breath, wondering what the Vector would do next. He was more than startled to see a smile brighten Quentin's features. "Remarkable! Absolutely remarkable. How old is he?" "Just over a year," Baris answered. Quentin's dark eyes held true awe. "Whose child is he?" Baris felt some sense of pride return as he answered. "Mine. This is Sirab." 182

"Yours? And Anika?" "No." Baris' pride withered. "Deirdre is his mother. He has been raised in the Lair under Darius' tutelage." "Really?" He shook his head, obviously still astonished over what Sirab had done. "And was that whom he sent away then? I got the sense of witch magic." Again, Baris was stunned with the man's knowledge. "Yes. Well, he was upset with Deirdre. She tried to take him away from me, and I guess he didn't want to go. I have no idea where he sent her." "Oh, back to the Lair," Quentin said off-handedly. Baris gasped. "Back to the Lair?" "Yes. She is Darius' mate, is she not?" Baris heard much more in the question, and he sighed. "Much has happened, Elder." "I know. Let's find Sirab a soft place to sleep while we talk, shall we?" He smiled at Baris as if they were old friends, then motioned to an elegant curving staircase. Baris hesitated. "Elder, there is something you must know. If Deirdre has been returned to the Lair, you should be expecting a visit from Coleus quite soon." "Coleus?" Quentin chuckled softly. "Here? I think not." He led the way up the stairs, but before they could enter a guest room, they were met by a woman. She was striking, with her dark hair, almost black eyes and pale skin. She was as tall as Quentin, and moved to his side with an intimate familiarity. Baris could not contain his gasp. He bowed before her, showing respect due the meeting of a Vector female Elder. "Greetings, Elder Vector." She laughed, and came to stand beside Quentin. "Has he not been out of the Lair long?" she murmured. Baris flushed and Quentin chuckled again. "Perhaps too long. Sofantra, this is Baris. Baris, my mate, Sofantra." "Mate?" Baris stared in open astonishment. Sofantra smiled. "Seems you have a need to talk, Quentin," she said, and reached out for Sirab. 183

Baris hesitated only briefly before relinquishing the sleeping child. Sirab stirred, opened his eyes, and looked up at Sofantra. Baris tensed, ready to snatch the child back, to console him if need be, but Sirab smiled and snuggled sleepily against Sofantra as if he had known her all of his life. It suddenly occurred to Baris that he might have, and he felt more of an outsider in the Vector world than he had in a long time. "When did Sirab last feed and on whom?" Quentin asked. "What?" Baris looked at him blankly. A puzzled look crossed Quentin's countenance, and he asked his question again. This time Baris was able to provide an answer. "He...fed..." He paused, suddenly realizing how many days it had been since his son had fed. He reddened with embarrassment, feeling like an inadequate father. "It's been about three days. He...there was a young woman sent to care for him." "And before that? Did he feed on you?" Baris nodded. "And Deirdre." "And you? When did you last feed, Baris?" Quentin asked softly. "The same. Deirdre, she..." He sighed, again feeling trapped and manipulated by Deirdre. And weak. Vectors should be strong, in command, as Quentin and Sofantra were. Baris was beginning to think he was not a true Vector at all. At the least he had seemed to lack the qualities lately of a Vector. Quentin studied him a moment, then grasped his elbow and turned him toward the staircase. "Sofantra will see to Sirab's needs when he wakes. I will see to yours now." Baris started, his gaze shifting to the Vector beside him, as they descended the stairs. "What do you mean?" "When's the last time you attended a Gathering, Baris?" Baris frowned, caught off-guard by the question. "I...I don't know. Why?" "When is the last time you fed off of a Vector?" "I don't remember." Baris' response was quick, and he could not suppress a grimace of distaste. 184

"Ah, that bothers you. Why?" Baris shrugged, not really knowing how to answer that. Quentin opened the door to his private study and ushered Baris inside. The smell of leather tomes, parchment and lamp oil filled the room, and for a second Baris ached for home. By the Sovereign, how he wanted to be holed up in his own study with his wife and children safe at hand. Quentin moved past him, gestured at a nearby chair, then went to the sideboard to pour two glasses of brandy. He handed one to Baris, then settled in the chair opposite him. "Who was your mentor in the Lair?" he asked, sipping at his drink. "Cris." "Ah." Baris frowned, feeling suddenly protective of the Vector who raised him, taught him, showed him the Vector life. "What does that mean? Is there something wrong with that?" "No, not at all. Did Cris ever take you to a Gathering?" "Of course he did. More than one." "And tell me something, how did you feel afterward?" Baris thought back, then frowned, unsure of the emotions the memory of the Gathering evoked. "I...I guess energized." "You guess?" Baris took a quick drink of his brandy. "All right. Energized. Why? What does this have to do with --" "You were bothered when I guessed that the powerful use of Vector magic was Sirab and not you." It was not a question. Baris felt color rush to his cheeks. "I was, Elder, but that was immature. I should be pleased that Sirab is exhibiting such prowess with his magic." He did not mention the implant; could not. It was only another sign of his failures. "Do you know why he is?" "No. I suspect it has something to do with his dual heritage, and the fact that he has had careful training from Darius." 185

"I suppose part of that may be true, but the biggest part is his Vector parentage." Baris was again caught off-guard by the comment. He took another drink of his brandy, feeling it settle like fire in his too empty stomach. "Me? I hardly think he got his ability from me. I don't seem to have much strength in that area." Quentin chuckled softly. "And yet I remember a time when you did. Think back. Think back to your days before you met and married Anika, before you settled down to raise a human family, Baris. Before you pledged to feed on only your wife, a human wife." Baris frowned, irritation nipping at him. Quentin's reference to Anika as a 'human' grated on him. It was as if she were not as important as a Vector. And he didn't like what Quentin's words alluded to - that he had lost his Vector abilities because of his lifestyle. Still, when he thought on it, he had seemed far more in control, more able, before his days with Anika. And before the mess Deirdre had involved him in. He shook his head. If anything, he blamed Deirdre for his weaknesses, not Anika. " I'm sorry. I don't know what you're getting at, Elder." Quentin sighed. "Of course you do. Baris, the reason your son is so adept is because he has fed on Vector blood. In particular, your blood. You must do the same." "What? Feed on my own..." He shook his head, confused. Quentin laughed aloud at that, and took the empty brandy glass from Baris' hands. "That would hardly be effectual. No, you must feed on Vector blood, Baris. A diet of only human blood is not sufficient." "But I have always --" "No, you haven't. Not if Cris was doing his job in mentoring you. What do you think the purpose of the Gathering is, Baris? Just a sex romp? A show of strength? No. It's a meeting of Vector men and women for the express purpose of sharing blood. A way to re-energize, reconnect with one's own kind. Our lives are solitary for the most part, Baris. We need this reconnecting to remember who we are, where we came from, what we are. I fear it's been far too long that you have taken in Vector blood." 186

Baris swallowed hard, uneasiness churning the brandy in his stomach. "But if that's all...I mean, if it's a place for Vectors to reconnect, then why are the humans there?" Quentin shrugged. "Once the blood lust is returned, the appetite can sometimes be insatiable. We cannot bleed each other to illness, so we have the humans to supplement." "But they die," Baris whispered. "Rarely do they die now that control has been re-established. Now then." He rose, and placed both brandy glasses on the table. "We have a Gathering to attend." Baris started. "No! I...I mean, I can't. Sirab, he..." He took a deep breath. "Deirdre has a spell over Aysha, and --" "A spell?" Quentin interrupted. "What sort of spell?" "I don't know. But she holds my daughter's life in her hands. And because of the spell Anika cast, if Aysha dies, so does Sirab. And now with Deirdre back at the Lair, and the Sovereign so ill --" "The Sovereign?" Quentin snapped. "Explain!" Baris ran a shaking hand through his hair, and slumped back into his chair. "He was poisoned." His voice was barely audible, as guilt once more rushed through him. He could not have felt worse had the poison been delivered by his own hand. "By whom?" "Probably Coleus, but it was a potion brewed by Deirdre." "I see." Quentin's words were stiff, full of repressed anger. "Then we need to return to the Lair immediately." "No!" Baris cried, sitting up straight. "I cannot. Because I left the Lair with Deirdre, I am suspect. Coleus has made it appear that Deirdre and I poisoned the Sovereign before we left." Quentin was silent a moment. "And why did you leave the Lair with Deirdre?" "She gave me no choice. Anika was ill, sick with childbirth fever. I took her to the Lair for help. Deirdre gave that help, for the price of freedom." "And did not your past experiences with Deirdre teach you anything?" 187

Baris bristled under the parental tone, but kept his words calm. "Of course, but I put her there, Elder. She doesn't belong there. She's not a Vector. She cannot live in that way. Besides she had cast the spell over Aysha already. If I didn't do as she asked, my daughter would die. And now..." he paused, unable to stop the tears that gathered in his eyes, "now she is probably dead anyway." Again Quentin was quiet, regarding Baris thoughtfully. "Who is in the Lair with Anika?" "My children," Baris mumbled. "Very well. I will go and fetch them. I will also check on the Sovereign. In the meantime, you will attend the Gathering." He held up his hand as Baris raised his head to protest. "I am assuming Elder status over you, Baris. You will do as I say." Baris stared at him, stunned. But he could say nothing. It was an Elder's right to take command of a junior Vector. But usually that was reserved for youth, for Vector's barely free of the Lair, not for a grown man, with a family and a life of his own. In fact, Baris had never heard of such being done before now. It shamed and belittled him, and he felt the color rise to his cheeks yet again. He dared not challenge Quentin on the fact that Darius did not ordain such a proclamation. Quentin had spent most of life under the rule of Cardiss, and those rules were quite different. And there was no doubt that Quentin could easily take him on, and probably kill him, if he challenged the command. He averted his gaze. "Yes, Elder," was all he could manage. He started when Quentin laid one hand on his shoulder. "Baris, I do not do this to humiliate you, but to help you. Please know that." Baris looked up at the Vector, and saw only true concern and compassion in the dark eyes. He nodded numbly, and got to his feet. Quentin gave him a small smile, then cast the Spell to take them both to the Gathering. They arrived in a large clearing, lit only by several small campfires, and a few lamps. The moonlight cast an eerie white glow, almost reflecting off the pale skins of the dozens of Vectors milling about. There were as many humans, some in various states of undress, tangling with Vector men or women, deep in the throes of passion and lust. Baris looked away,

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disgusted. He was about to plead with Quentin to take him out of there, when another Vector walked their way. Baris didn't know the woman, but Quentin obviously did. He swept her close, and delivered a passionate kiss. She wrapped her long, pale arms about his neck, a sultry smile on her face. "Well, look who decided to show up," she purred. "And he's brought a friend." Quentin smiled. "This is Baris. I want you to take special care of him tonight. Make him feel welcome." She loosed Quentin and sidled up to Baris, running the tip of one finger along his chest. "I don't recognize you. When were you last at Gathering?" Baris couldn't answer, his words caught in a throat gone dry. Quentin chuckled, and pulled the woman away. "He has not been here for many years. He requires sustenance, not sex. He has a mate." She pouted teasingly. "Oh, very well. But then," she turned toward Quentin yet again. "What of you, my pet? Will you stay and provide me what he cannot?" Quentin pulled her close, one hand smoothing her long, dark hair back. He kissed her, then kissed her neck. Baris looked away, embarrassed, then quickly had to avert his gaze yet again as he caught sight of another couple fully engaged in sex. He was surprised, given the circumstances, the surroundings, the heightened smell of blood in the air, that he was not aroused. Perhaps he had been away from his own kind for far too long. He dared a glance back toward Quentin, but the man had again separated himself from the woman. "I'll leave you two alone, then," he said. "I have some work to do in the Lair. I'll return for you in the morning, Baris. Make your time here worthwhile." Without waiting for an answer, he cast a spell and disappeared. The woman eyed Baris with a seductive grin, then again sidled up against him. She ran one hand to the back of his head, her long fingers entwining in his hair. "Welcome to the Gathering, Baris," she whispered, her gaze fixed on his. Baris felt the first, faint stirrings of hypnosis, and tried to shake them aside. But she was far too powerful for him, and he found himself sinking deeper and deeper 189

into her spell. And when she pressed her lips against his, he could not resist tasting her. She drew back with a smile, then gently pulled his head toward her exposed neck. For a split second, Baris resisted, then, drawn by the sudden overpowering need to feed, he did.

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Chapter 32 Adan drew up outside the rundown building Jade had sent him to. Something didn't feel right, as if a trap awaited him here. He slipped into the shadows, testing the air about him, then started. A Vector! Here! His first impulse was to flee, but something stayed the motion. He drew a deep breath. Iron! Lots of it! There was not only a Vector here, but a Bleeder. A powerful combination. The last thing Adan wanted to do was to challenge another Vector for the rights to a Bleeder. Still...there was a difference in this Vector, something not quite right. Adan narrowed his eyes in thought, then took a chance and shifted to something small enough to slip through a crack in the weathered siding. The room was small, crowded with broken bits of furniture and pottery. Adan waited for long moments, wondering how long it would be before the Vector picked up on him. But the door to the small room remained closed. He picked his way through the debris, drawn by a sliver of light beneath the door. He heard soft voices, then moaning, as if someone beyond were in great pain. He paused, listening, but the words were incoherent, even to his elevated sense of hearing. He wondered if this Vail person was in the other room, if he was the one in obvious pain, if the Vector caused his pain. He tested the air yet again, puzzled. If there was a Vector, even a Vector halfling, in the room beyond, he should be able to tell that. But he only got confused readings, as if the Vector blood was thin, diluted. A sudden thought occurred to him. What if the Vector was being held against his wishes? What if by some means, another had overpowered him? Shivers ran through Adan. If there was someone beyond this door capable of controlling a Vector, he needed to think twice about interfering. Yet, he had not been set upon either. It didn't make sense. Drawing another deep breath of the iron-filled air, he slipped beneath the crack in the door. The room was nearly empty, holding only a few sagging, yet useable pieces of furniture. One of these was a bed, and on it lay a young man, thrashing about in the throes of either pain or drug withdrawal. It was from him that the iron smell was 191

coming. A young woman ministered to him, wiping his forehead with a damp cloth, and whispering softly. Her face was haggard, but not just from worry. She showed her years on the street, of living in the filth and poverty of the drug world. Adan studied her, wondering if that is how he would now appear to other Vectors. He shook the thought aside, and concentrated on her words, words he could now understand with his proximity. "Vail, this is useless. You need to have some hack." Her tone was pleading. "No," the young man on the cot managed. "I have to defeat this." "How? By dying?" the woman cried. "You can't stop it like this. You have to go slowly." "I don't have time," Vail muttered, his eyes fluttering closed. So, this was Vail. The young man who had assisted Jade in a time of need. Adan sensed no threat from him, and actually felt he owed Vail something. He paused only a moment longer, then, drawn by the overwhelming scent of iron, he allowed his Illusion to fade. "He may be right," he said quietly. The woman whirled, then let out a muffled scream. She backed away from Vail, even as he opened his eyes to stare up at Adan in confusion. But if the woman was terrified of what stood before her, Vail was not. He reached out a trembling hand, relief in the fever-reddened eyes. "Please? Help me. Please." Adan glanced at the woman, who was huddled in a corner of the room, her eyes wide. He knew that if he fed on Vail before her, she would run screaming for the nearest constable. So, instead he took the few moments necessary to hypnotize her. When he reached for her hand, she gave it willingly, her face now blank and accepting. "You're sleepy. Go lie down on those blankets and rest," he suggested. She nodded numbly, and did as he said. He waited until he was sure she was asleep, then he sat down on the bed beside Vail. The young man's face was flushed, covered in a sheen of sweat. His eyes were glazed and blood-shot, and his body trembled with a violence Adan knew well. He also knew that the woman was right. If 192

Vail was determined to rid himself of the hack, he needed to do it slowly, over time. He scanned the room. It took him only a moment to locate the hack, and he rose to retrieve it. Vail watched his movements through half-lidded eyes, but when Adan sat down near him again, he turned away. "No hack," he whispered, his voice grating. "I can help you," Adan said softly. "But you must do as I bid. You have Vector blood in you. Why?" "A friend. He saved my life with his blood." "And is this friend here in Erster?" Vail nodded, his gaze sliding to the hack bag Adan held. Even though he had professed not wanting it, Adan could see the desire in the dark eyes. He imagined his own had often held that empty hunger. He sighed, and opened the bag, releasing the pungent aroma of the hack. Vail drew a deep breath, then closed his eyes, clenching his jaw. "Why is your Vector friend here?" Adan asked. "He...he was looking for a Vector." Vail opened his eyes. "Maybe you?" Adan stiffened. "Why was he looking for me?" "I don't know. He had orders from the Lair to find you." "Indeed?" Adan clenched his jaw, irritation riding through him. He didn't believe the young man. "And you know nothing of why?" "I'm not a Vector," Vail said, licking his lips. "They don't tell me their business." His gaze was fixed on the hack bag. "Please, help me." Adan flinched at the plaintive tone in the young man's voice. "Are you a Bleeder?" "Yes. Help me." A Bleeder with Vector blood. Adan wondered just what other mysteries this man before him held. He saw both longing and loathing in the dark eyes. He knew the man had more knowledge then he was willing to share, and he considered further questioning. But he was fast running out of patience. Already his mouth was watering at the thought of the intoxicating rush he would experience from the iron. And mixing that with hack...it was too good to pass up. Or to wait on any longer. He took several 193

leaves of the drug from the pouch and held them toward Vail's mouth. Vail's lips parted almost reflexively, and Adan let the hack fall onto the man's tongue. It dissolved almost at once. And almost at once, the effects were clear. Vail sighed with relief and went limp on the cot as the drug swept through his body. His visible trembling lessened and finally subsided altogether. It was still a few moments before he could fully open his eyes. "I need more help," he mumbled. Adan frowned as he felt the distinct pull of Vector magic surround him, and he realized with a start that this man was trying to hypnotize him. "That is unnecessary," he said. "I can manage quite handily on my own." He pulled Vail up, then gasped when the young man let out a cry of pain. "What?" "It's nothing," Vail whispered. Adan hesitated, but the iron was too close, too demanding. He pulled Vail to him, now ignoring the cries of pain, and fed. He had never in his entire life had blood tinged with the combination of hack and iron. He felt it rush through him like a heady aphrodisiac, sending his senses soaring. He tightened his grip on the young man and drank deeply. So lost was he in the feed that he might have drained Vail but that Vail suddenly threw him off with a quick snap of painful magic. Adan tumbled to the floor, where he sat, gasping and blinking up at Vail in disbelief. Vail stared back, his eyes now clear, his face relaxed and set. "I need to find my friend," he said flatly. "Can you help me?" "Your friend? The Vector who seeks me? Why should I help you? So you can turn me over to the Lair. I have done nothing wrong. Nothing." Vail's countenance softened. "Nothing except get mixed up with the wrong master," he said quietly. "Just as I have. We can help each other, if you will agree to that help. Please?" Adan studied him for a long moment, not sure exactly what to make of him. The magic he thrown had been an odd mix of Vector and something else he was not familiar with. Adan had no idea just how much he was capable of, and really didn't want to find out. Nor did he want to find out why the Lair wanted him back. His thoughts swung to Jade. If she had trusted this human enough to go with him, there 194

was a reason. Adan trusted Jade, and so it seemed to reason he should also trust Vail. "Just what do you want me to do?" he asked. "Bleed me. I need to use my magic to heal myself. Doing that will increase the iron in my blood. I need to be bled to keep from dying. I will give you my blood voluntarily, blood laced with iron and hack." "You can heal?" Adan asked, ignoring the last words. Vail nodded. "To a certain extent, yes." Adan got to his feet, suddenly giddy with relief. "Can you help a woman who has been washed of her pregnancy?" Vail winced. "Did you --" "No!" Adan snapped at once. "I did nothing to her. I would not hurt her. I love her!" The words startled even him, but once said they could not be unsaid. Nor did he want them to.

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Chapter 33 Jaeger gasped, sitting up. "He's gone!" He reached over to shake Baul. "He's gone." Baul eyed him groggily, obviously having drifted to sleep. But he recovered quickly, and surged to his feet. "Let's go then!" He swiftly cast the Spell, sending him and Jaeger away from the Lair. He made several sharp course changes, and finally brought them both down in the middle of a dark stand of trees. Light glowed nearby, filtering through the branches. Jaeger could hear voices, laughter, moaning. It was the last that drove uncertainty through him, and he gripped Baul's arm. "Can we not wait here?" he asked. Baul grinned. "Are you kidding? This is a Gathering, Jaeger. It's supposed to be one of the biggest this year. Come on." He near dragged Jaeger after him to the lit clearing. The light came from several small campfires, and a dozen or so small lamps that hung in the trees or perched on boulders, as well as the lightening skies of early morning. Jaeger recognized the clearing. He had been here before, as a young man. He had come out of curiosity several years after his parents had died. He had felt a need to be with his own kind, to search out companionship. But he had not fit in then, and he knew he did not fit in now. He was a halfling, and there was no place for him here. He glanced at Baul, to see the young Vector's face bright with anticipation as he viewed the hundred or so Vectors milling about the area. He had no doubt that Baul had taken part in many such Gatherings, and was now anxious to take part in this one as well. He wondered just how hard it would be to drag him away from the party to focus on finding Vail. He started when Baul gripped his arm. "Over there! That's Baris! Come on." They threaded their way through the crowd. Jaeger kept his eyes averted, not wanting to see the various states of undress of the humans, their pale skins glowing 196

in the firelight. He wondered how many had already died, how many would soon. Moans and sighs mixed with cries of rapture, soft conversation and laughter. It had always puzzled Jaeger how anyone could find a Gathering something to laugh about. Then again, no Vectors ever died, only the humans. Humans like his wife and her cousin. He sighed and followed Baul. "Baris!" Baul cried out, and a moment later was clasping the Vector's forearm in greeting. "It's good to see you! Where have you been?" Baris seemed somewhat dazed, as if he had only just awakened. Upon seeing Jaeger, however, he came fully alert, his dark eyes glowing with a strength Jaeger had not seen there for months. It suddenly occurred to him that Baris had been part of the Gathering, feeding on Vector and human blood alike. While his wife and children lay unconscious in the Lair. It made no sense. "Jaeger?" Baris asked. "What are you doing here? I thought you were in Erster. Where's Vail? Is he still there? Alone?" Jaeger was not prepared for the rapid-fire questions, the intensity by which they were asked. He held up one hand to silence Baris. "I was in Erster, and yes, Vail is still there. Somewhere." "Somewhere?" Baris looked from Jaeger to Baul and back. "What do you mean?" Jaeger sighed, guilt again crowding him. "He's lost. I don't know where he is. I went to the Lair to fetch Baul, to help me search. Instead he and I were arrested. It seems I have been implicated in Darius' illness." Baris stared at him in slack-jawed disbelief, before anger darkened his eyes further. "Deirdre," he whispered. "I thought I was the only one caught up in her snare." Jaeger frowned. "Explain." "I am implicated as well. In fact, I am the prime suspect." "You? Why?" Baul asked. Baris huffed out an irritated breath. "I am the one who took Deirdre from the Lair. Shortly after that Darius was found poisoned. Coleus has pegged me as the criminal. Baul snorted. "They were in on it together, Coleus and Deirdre." 197

"Not to hear Deirdre tell it," Baris countered. "She claims she gave Darius only a sleeping potion, nothing more. She believes that Coleus added something to it before he administered it to Darius." "So, that's why you're here? You're hiding?" Baul asked. "No. I am...waiting." "Waiting? For whom?" "For Quentin." Baris turned away, obviously uncomfortable with the whole subject, and sat down on a log. Jaeger exchanged a quick glance with Baul, before looking again at Baris. "Quentin?" Baris actually winced, his voice soft. "He brought me here. He said I needed to rediscover my heritage." Jaeger suspected there was more to it than that. He could not envision Baris attending a Gathering on his own decision. Not now. Not being in a committed relationship. But Jaeger wasn't about to press Baris on it further. If nothing else, he could certainly sense the Vector's discomfort in discussing it at all. "And have you?" he asked quietly. Baris looked up at him, his dark eyes clear and bright. "Yes." The word was soft, yet firm. "And I will help you in your search for both Vail and Adan. I feel, at the least, capable now. But I need to hear Quentin's report from the Lair. Grant me that much." "I don't know that I can," Jaeger said. "I have not seen Vail for days. I have no idea what condition he is in. I need to get back to Erster." Baris rose, and gripped Jaeger's forearm. "Think a moment. If you escaped the Lair cells, Coleus will be looking for you. None of us outrank him. Quentin does. He may be our only hope in finding Vail and Adan before Coleus slaps all of us in the cells again. This time, we may not get out." Jaeger felt a shiver run through him at the words, and he gave a crisp nod. "Very well. We will wait, but only for an hour. If Quentin is not back by that time, I must leave. I cannot abandon Vail to whatever may have befallen him." 198

"I understand," Baris said quietly. "I owe Vail my life, and I will do everything I can do repay that debt." There was a momentary silence, then Baul rubbed his hands together. "Well, if we've an hour to kill, I think I'll make good time of it. I'll meet you back here." Without waiting for a response from either Jaeger or Baris, he slipped away, and was soon out of sight in the foliage. Jaeger watched him go with mixed feelings. Part of him was disgusted with the whole thing, but another part of him yearned to be able to experience the Gathering as only a full Vector could. Baris seemed to know his thoughts, and gave his shoulder an affectionate squeeze. "Have you ever been to a Gathering, Jaeger?" he asked, reseating himself on the log. Jaeger glanced down at him, then away. "Once. I was young." He felt no need to say more, but Baris obviously had more on his own mind. "I didn't come here willingly. Quentin, he...." Baris drew a deep breath. "He took Elder status over me." Jaeger looked over him, surprised. "Why?" Baris shrugged. "It seems that my son out distances me in the way of magic." "Your son? Thale?" "Oh, you didn't know, did you? I have another son. He was raised in the Lair by Darius himself." He rubbed his face with both hands, then looked off into the woods. "His name is Sirab. Deirdre's idea. My name backward. A son I fathered but never knew. But now I do. Now I do." Jaeger winced at the emotion in the Vector's voice. "Where is Sirab now?" "He's being cared for by Quentin's mate, Sofantra. Perhaps that's the best place for him." "You don't mean that." Baris sighed and rose. "I don't know anymore, Jaeger. Life used to be so simple. I hungered, I fed. I lusted, I laid. Now? Now, I don't know anything it would seem. Not even that I needed to feed on my own kind to retain my own strength. I had 199

forgotten all of this. I wasn't sure I wanted to remember. It disgusted me to see Sirab taking blood." He gave a soft chuckle. "You should have seen him, Jaeger, the first time he tried to feed on his own. He bit the poor woman's neck hard enough to bruise her, even break the skin. He knew what to do, he just didn't have the maturity to do it. And do you know how I felt watching him?" He turned to look at Jaeger, who shook his head. "I was sick to my stomach. I didn't want to see him like that. It was like looking at a monster, something totally alien to me. And I'm his father! A Vector! How could watching my own son repulse me?" "So, that's why you came here?" Jaeger gestured to their surroundings. Baris looked about, as if he could see all of the intimacy taking place in the seclusion of the trees. "Yes, that's why I came here. At least Quentin knew what I needed." "But what of your commitment to Anika?" Baris gave a small smile. "I have not broken my vows. Not this time. I fed and that was all." Jaeger felt some degree of relief with that statement, although he could not suppose to be Baris' conscience. "And what of you, Jaeger?" Baris asked. "Do you feed on other Vectors? Do you replenish yourself?" Jaeger was quiet a moment, then shook his head. "I suppose a halfling has no reason to worry over feeding on another Vector." "I don't see why that should matter," Baris said. "Sirab is a halfling, yet Quentin tells me that he gets his strength from Vector blood." "Does he?" Jaeger moved aside, averting his gaze. "I have fed on Vail. He carries Vector blood. Perhaps that is enough for me." "He carries your blood." "It doesn't matter." "So, this is Jaeger?" The woman's voice startled Jaeger and he whirled. "Gr...greetings," he stammered. He tipped his head at the elegant Vector female standing just past Baris. 200

Baris seemed surprised to see her, but not unduly so. He frowned, then reached out with one hand toward her. She smiled warmly, accepted his gesture, and slipped her hand into his. Baris escorted her forward as if presenting royalty. "Jaeger, this is Zera." Jaeger found himself bowing yet again. "I apologize for my behavior, Elder. My thoughts were elsewhere than on the Gathering." "And why is that?" she asked. For a moment Jaeger did not answer, but something in her dark eyes compelled him to speak. "I do not belong here, Elder." She smiled at him, and slipped her hand free of Baris'. "You are a Vector. Why do you not belong here?" "I am a halfling, Elder. My heritage is --" "I know who you are, Jaeger," she interrupted. "You've become quite the legend around here." "Legend?" Jaeger lifted his eyebrows in true surprise. "In what way, Elder?" She laughed. "You have given us a new life, Jaeger, and we thank you for that." She placed the tip of one long finger beneath his chin. "I thank you for that." Jaeger stared into her eyes, unable to look away. His whole body tingled with her power, and he knew in that moment, he would do her bidding. He was barely aware of Baris slipping away, and when she gave him an unspoken command to feed, he did so.

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Chapter 34 Adan paced the small room, hands clenched behind his back. It had taken him several hours to get Vail back into the city, and even that was after he had resorted to nearly carrying the man. Vail refused to say why he was having trouble walking, and it was only several strong doses of hack that kept him on his feet at all. Adan was sure by the time they reached Jade, Vail would either collapse or be too far into a stupor to be of much help. But the young man had again surprised him. Vail had gone at once to Jade's side. The grim look on his face told Adan more than any words could have. Jade was extremely ill. Vail quietly began work with his own magic, a magic Adan now knew was witchery. He didn't know much about witches, only that they were persecuted, much the way Vectors were. Vectors had their strength, their ability to shapeshift as protection. Apparently, witches had their magic. He had questioned Vail on more than his heritage. The hack had loosened the young man's tongue, and what could not be drawn out that way, Adan's hypnosis had coerced out another. Adan had learned just what hell Brede had put Vail through, knew now why he had trouble walking, what he needed to heal himself of. The very idea of such an assault left a hard lump in the pit of Adan's stomach. Not that he hadn't availed himself of a man at some time in his long life, but never through force or torture. He had also learned just why Brede had reacted with such violence. He had been under the misguided assumption that Vail had bedded Jade, that the marks on her neck were his. Even Jade's own denial had brought Vail no reprieve. If it hadn't been for his own magic and the gentle care of Poppy, he would have died. As it was he had been dropped at Poppy's doorstep more dead than alive, and thoroughly addicted to hack. Adan had to give him credit, though, for his determined attempts to wean himself. It showed a strength that awed even a man like Adan. Still, he knew the power of the drug, knew how it commanded one, how it took over every small detail of one's life. It wasn't possible to escape from such a demanding master. 202

A sound outside brought him alert. He moved to the small window beside the door and peered outside. Mara was slowly climbing the stairway, obviously having been out the night. Adan supposed it had been either with Brede or selling his wares. New anger raged through him, and he stepped aside to let the woman enter. She gasped upon seeing Vail kneeling beside Jade's bed. "Here now! Who the hell are you? What are you doing here?" Vail turned, startled, and Mara gasped. "You! I saw you at the eatery with Jade. Vail, isn't it?" "You have a good memory for names," Adan said quietly. Mara whirled, a small shriek escaping her. She started for the door, but Adan pushed it closed before her, and stepped in front of it. She stared up at him, then backed away slowly. "Vail, help me," she whispered. "Help you?" Adan asked. "After what you did to him?" Mara paled, her gaze darting toward Vail. "I don't know what you mean." "Nor do I," Vail put in, frowning. "Haven't you wondered, Vail, why Brede thought you were bedding Jade?" Vail's confusion increased, and he shook his head. "I wasn't bedding Jade. I told you that. I told Brede that." "But why did he believe it in the first place? Why don't you tell him, Mara?" "Tell him what?" Mara asked, lifting her chin indignantly. The mere action infuriated Adan, and he thrust out one hand, catching her forearm in a strong grip. "Tell him." Mara let out a little gasp of pain, but did not try to wrest away. "I...I may have mentioned that he was with Jade at the eatery. What harm is there in that?" "You need only to look at Vail's face to see what harm there was," Adan told her. He tightened his grip. "And what else did you tell Brede about Vail?" She let out a little scream of pain, nearly collapsing. "I told him that Jade had a new man. I...I thought she did." "It was you?" Vail asked, as if suddenly understanding. "You told Brede that I was bedding his woman? Why?" 203

Mara opened her mouth, then closed it, then opened it again. But she could bring up no words of explanation. Adan released his hold on her arm, and she stumbled to the floor. Vail rose, wincing in pain as he did so, and shuffled toward her. "You don't even know me. Why would you do this to me?" Mara averted her gaze, her mouth twitching with uncertainty. She cast a glance at Jade, who lay still as death on the cot. The action was not lost on Adan. "Another of your crimes, Mara," he said. "You told Brede that Jade carried his child. He killed the child. He may have killed the child's mother." Mara swallowed hard, her ample chest heaving with anxiety and fear, but she still offered up no explanation or apology. Vail shook his head, his dark eyes holding only bewilderment, and he returned to Jade to continue his work. Adan watched him for a moment, then looked back at Mara. "And now, what should your punishment be?" If there had been any color in Mara's face, it now left. She stared up at him, slackjawed, wide-eyed. "Punishment?" "Perhaps I should let Vail decide. Or Jade. What do you think she will have to say to her best friend now?" Tears filled Mara's eyes, and she near prostrated herself at his feet. "Pity, M'Lord, please? I didn't know Brede would do this. I...I mean, to Vail. I...I knew he might want to wash Jade, but I didn't think it would be anything harmful to her. Women have been washed before and been fine. I'm sure Jade will be fine. Brede wouldn't have wanted her hurt anymore than I would." Adan almost laughed in outright disbelief. "You're a great liar, Mara," he said. "But not a great actress. You seem to have no other ability except whoring yourself." Anger flitted through Mara's face, but she quickly got it under control. Still, it was enough for Adan to know that the woman felt absolutely no remorse for what she had contributed to. He clenched his jaw, and let her fall under his spell once again. "Go sit down," he commanded. "I will deal with you later." She did as ordered, her face now blank. A sudden thought came to him, and a small smile turned the corners of his mouth. He knew just the place for her. He only wished he could be there to see her face when she woke in the middle of a Vector 204

Gathering. With any luck, the Vectors would find both her body and her blood tantalizing. He turned to see Vail watching him, and for a moment wondered if the young man guessed his thoughts. He paused, his gaze moving to Jade. "Is she better?" Vail sighed. "Better, yes. Well, no. It's going to take some time. A saltwater wash is one of the most barbaric things to do to a woman. And to the child. The child is already dead. Now, Jade needs only to expel it. That will take some time." He looked up at Adan. "Does she use hack?" He nodded. "I have seen her do so, yes. Why?" "Do you have any? She could use it for the pain. And it will help her relax, which might make the delivery easier." "There is some here." Adan went to the butter jar and retrieved the hack from the bottom of it. He gently placed two leaves into Jade's partially open mouth, then smoothed her hair from her forehead. "She's hot." "She has an infection, most likely due to the injection of the saltwater. I've been working on healing that. There is nothing I can do for the child." Adan caught at him as he suddenly sagged. "And you? What of healing yourself?" "I'm doing the best I can. I could use some rest, and..." He brought his gaze up to meet Adan's. "Your assistance once again." "So soon?" Vail nodded. "The more magic I use, the more iron my body produces, the sicker I become. I need to be bled." Adan regarded him thoughtfully. "I have heard of this. Somewhere. I can't remember..." He shrugged, pushed the thoughts aside, and helped Vail.

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Chapter 35 Baris shot to his feet as Quentin suddenly materialized in front of him. "Anika?" he asked at once. "Where is she? And Thale? Aysha?" Quentin held up one hand, although he wore a satisfied smile. "Safe. Hidden. Coleus had placed Anika and Thale under a spell, but that has been broken. The spell over Aysha is also broken. All of them are fine. All of them are asking about you, your welfare." He chuckled suddenly. "Well, those who can talk of course." Baris sighed with relief. "Darius?" "He is recovering as well." He smiled. "He is being tended to by several witches from your wife's clan. They are most adept at healing." Baris managed a small smile of appreciation. "They are indeed," he agreed. He was awed by all that the Vector standing before him had managed to accomplish, and in such a short time. "I don't know how to thank you, Elder." Quentin chuckled. "You can start by not calling me Elder. Makes me feel old." He gave a theatrical shudder, then gripped Baris by one shoulder. "I trust your visit to the Gathering has been an enlightening one?" Baris nodded, although his cheeks warmed. "As you predicted. Did you know that Baul and Jaeger are here as well?" Quentin's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Are they? I had heard of their escape from the cells. Coleus was not pleased. Odd that he never thought to check for them here. Where are they?" "Baul went off on his own, but Jaeger was with Zera." "Indeed?" Quentin laughed again. "She is a persuasive one, she is. Well, we must find them. I understand that Jaeger was on assignment for Darius." "Yes, he was. I was to help him. I would have been there with him already but for Deirdre. Now, I fear that not only have I failed Jaeger, but Vail as well." "Vail?"

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"He was with Jaeger in Erster, but he has disappeared. That's why Jaeger and Baul escaped the cells. They want to return to Erster to find Vail. I told them I would accompany them, but I wanted to wait until I had spoken with you." "I see. Well," he clapped his hands together, his dark eyes shining, "then we'd best get to it." "We? You mean to come along?" "Why not? You may need my protection what with Coleus on the rampage." Baris stiffened. "Then he still pursues me?" "You, Jaeger, Baul, Deirdre, me. Who isn't he after?" Quentin chuckled as if he thought the whole thing was nothing more than an amusing game. But there was also confidence. Wherever he had hidden Darius, Anika and the children, he knew they would not be discovered. Baris wondered just where that was. He prayed it was not frightening for Thale, not uncomfortable for Anika. But something Quentin said stuck out. "You mentioned Deirdre. Why is Coleus looking for her? I thought she was in the Lair." "Ah, was. Past tense. She is no longer. She is also in hiding." "Why?" Baris demanded. Quentin gave him a reproachful look, and Baris quickly amended his question. "Apologies, Quentin, but I don't understand why you spared her. She is the cause of all of this." "I am not the Sovereign, Baris. It is not my place, or yours, to sentence and punish her. That will be left to Darius when he recovers. Besides, Deirdre is not Vector. She does not really fall under Vector rule at all. It will be interesting to see just how Darius decides to handle her insubordination. Now then, suppose we round up Jaeger and Baul and go find Vail. And maybe do a little snacking on the way." He chuckled again, and began to walk, threading his way through the foliage. Baris followed. With the frequent stops that Quentin insisted on, it took them almost an hour to locate Jaeger. He sat well away from the Gathering, before a small fire he appeared

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to have kindled himself. He looked up at their approach, and immediately rose to bow to Quentin. "Greetings, Elder, Baris." Baris flinched at the stiffness in the welcome. Apparently Jaeger's stay at the Gathering had not been to his liking. If Quentin noticed, he said nothing about it, but tipped his head in greeting. "Do you know where Baul is?" Baris asked. Jaeger shook his head. "I haven't seen him since he left us last night." "No matter," Quentin said briskly. "We are quite capable of completing this assignment." Jaeger shot Baris a quick look. "We?" Quentin rolled his eyes. "Why must everyone act so surprised? I may be old, but I'm not dead." The words startled both Jaeger and Baris, and they again looked to each other for an explanation. But neither had one, and Quentin merely grinned mischievously at them both. "Erster, gentlemen." He cast a clean spell that took the three of them to a dark alley in Erster. Baris marveled at his strength and control. "Now, then," Quentin said, "tell me what you sense, Baris." Baris reached out with his Vector senses, shocked to find how much stronger they were than previously. He could hear humans talking, animals shuffling about, even a bird twittering in a tree far away. He could hear the wind sighing through the forest surrounding the city, the rush of the river in the warehouse district. He could smell woodsmoke, bacon frying somewhere, the filth lining the riverbed, the dust lying on the streets. And iron! He spun to the north. "Vail!" He started away, but Quentin restrained him. "Tell me what you sense." "A Bleeder. And...and another Vector. It must be Vail!" "Or it could be Coleus," Jaeger put in quietly.

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Quentin nodded. "He is actively searching for us. We must proceed with caution. I would suggest that if we are to Illusion, we need to do so now, while there is still distance." They agreed, and all three of them Illusioned as middle-aged peasants. Quentin led the way down the alley, his steps sure, as if he knew exactly where he was going. Jaeger and Baris fell into step behind him. They walked several miles, the scent of iron steadily increasing. And then, abruptly, it was gone. Quentin stopped, and turned to his two companions. Question lay in his eyes. A question Baris answered. "He's just been bled." "But how?" Jaeger added. "By a Vector or by himself?" "Let's find out, shall we?" Quentin said, and once again moved forward.

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Chapter 36 Vail sighed, and again wiped Jade's brow. She moaned softly, and opened her eyes to look at him. He saw the same thing there each time - pain, despair, resignation. The last was perhaps the hardest to bear. She was a young woman, a beautiful woman. To think that she truly believed her life was no more than what she now endured tore at his heart. He wanted to see her laugh, to be aglow with good health, to be swallowed whole by love. He dared a glance at Adan, who sat on the floor near the door. The Vector had become withdrawn, almost surly. And tense. Each sound outside, each movement, sent him to his feet. He would listen intently for a few moments, then collapse once more to the floor. Vail wondered just what he listened for. Perhaps Brede. The mere thought of the man sent shivers through Vail. He remembered his promise to himself while Brede had tortured him. He would kill the man. He had never been one for violence, but this he had sworn. He turned back around at a loud gasp, then a squeal of pain, from Jade. Adan was on his feet at once, and beside her. A moment later, the dead baby slid from her body, covered in blood, its skin red as a beet. Jade screamed, then broke into sobs, covering her face with both hands. Vail quickly wrapped the infant in a cloth, and whisked it out of sight of both Adan and Jade. He didn't even look to see the sex of the child, didn't want to know. He placed the child into a box he had rummaged up just for this purpose, and tightly closed the lid, then returned to Jade. Another few leaves of hack calmed her, allowed her to deal with the pain, brought her a momentary reprieve from her misery. Adan knelt beside the bed and took her hand. Vail hesitated a moment, then moved away, sensing that the Vector needed this time alone with Jade. Still, the flat was small, and even though Adan lowered his voice, Vail could still hear his words. "I'm sorry," he whispered. She looked at him through eyes hazy with pain and drug. "Sorry?"

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"It's my fault, Jade. I shouldn't have pursued you when I knew you loved another. But I couldn't help myself. I am as addicted to you as I am to the hack." "A slave, M'Lord?" she whispered. "No! Never that, Jade. I have lived long years, and never once in all of that time has anyone captured my heart the way you have. I cannot, will not, demand that you return my love, but I wanted you to know." Vail waited silently, wondering what her response would be, but when he saw her reach up and touch his cheek, he knew. It was almost a sense of relief. If Adan had finally found love after all of these years, he might be far more receptive to being brought before Darius to answer for his crimes. Yet, Vail could not believe that the Vector before him was responsible for the horror he had seen; the young woman with her neck torn open, the child ravaged and left to the elements under a dock. But if not Adan, then who? He turned to look at Mara, who slept now under Adan's spell. She bore two small marks on her neck. Just two. If Adan was the same Vector who had done such vicious damage to others, then why not to Mara? He certainly would have had reason to. And yet, Mara did not show any signs of excessive trauma. He looked back toward the Vector, who now nodded in response to something Jade had murmured, then turned toward Vail. "We need to bury the child," he said. "In the high meadows, where he or she might be lifted to the heavens with little effort. I have promised Jade that I would do this. I ask that you would remain here to care for her." He moved to Mara's side, and released her from his spell. She sat up, rubbing groggily at her forehead, but drew back with a gasp upon seeing Adan hunkered down beside her. "You will do something for me," Adan said firmly. "You will go to Brede. You will tell him that I wish to see him in the high meadows. You will tell him to come now." "He...he is afraid of you," Mara returned. "He will not come." "If he does not come, tell him I will come for him. I will take not only his way of life, but his life as well." 211

Mara shuddered and nodded. "I will tell him." She rose, and walked to the door. Vail opened it for her, and she left. Vail watched her until she was out of sight, then looked back at Adan. The Vector had picked up the box, and now stood as if ready to leave himself. For the first time, panic enveloped Vail. Without Adan there, he was left unprotected. If Brede decided to pay the flat a visit, there would be no escape. He was in no shape to fight off the man or his bodyguards. Jade would certainly die should she attempt to do so. "You can't leave us here," Vail said. Adan hesitated. "You cannot walk. Neither can Jade." "Then shift into something that can carry us both." Again Adan hesitated, his gaze searching the air about him as if looking for an unseen watcher. "I cannot." "Why not? If you leave us here, you condemn us to death. Even if Brede follows Mara's orders, he will send some of his men here. Neither of us will survive. Take us with you." Adan frowned, clearly perplexed. Vail could sense not only his reluctance to shift, but also his fear. But fear of what? Detection? "I don't think Jaeger is here," Vail said. "If he was, he would have found me by now. I can only guess he returned to the Lair to seek help. I cannot sense other Vectors, but you can. Do you sense any now? Any who would prevent you from shifting and saving our lives?" Adan let out an annoyed breath. "Yes!" he hissed. "There is another Vector in this city. At least, he comes periodically. At the first I believed it was your friend, Jaeger, but now I am not so sure. I have tried not to use my magic for fear of detection, yet I have not been successful. Still, I have not been found. I can only assume that this Vector is not the one looking for me." A chill swept through Vail. "I must ask you this. Please answer truthfully. Jaeger and I were sent here to find you, to stop the brutal killings in this city." "Brutal!" Adan interrupted, anger crossing his face. "I have done no such thing."

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"Hear me out. We have found at least two victims with their necks and bodies ravaged. A young woman and the boy." Adan stared at him in anger. "I have ravaged no one! Certainly not a child!" "Jaeger found him! Under a dock. He had been raped and bled to death. The woman was the same. Raped and drained of blood, wrapped in a black cloak, and left on the floor of a rundown shed. If not you, then who?" Adan approached him so quickly he fell back a step in fear. The look of rage on the Vector's face was unmistakable. He was being accused of something he did not do. Every empathic ability in Vail's body cried out the fact. "I did not kill them," Adan seethed. "The woman was a whore, and a seller. She sold herself to me. But I did not kill her. I left her alive. I never saw, nor touched the boy." Vail stared up into the dark eyes. "I believe you," he said quietly. Adan held his gaze a moment longer, then stepped back. Vail could not contain a sigh of relief. "If you fed only on the woman, as you did on Mara, then another Vector is following your path, killing your donors. He is the one whom we search for, not you." Adan considered the words for a moment, then started as Jade suddenly spoke, her voice soft, yet determined. "What Vail says is true, Adan. Brede will come here. He will find us, and he will kill us. You must help us." "And I will help you," Vail said. "I will tell them what I know of you. I promise. But I cannot do that if I am dead." Adan drew a long, deep breath, then gave a terse nod. "Very well. I will take you both with me. Perhaps it is a fitting thing that you will both see my confrontation with Brede. It will end the relationship he has with both of you. But I must go outside to shift. I must have room to adjust to something that can carry you both at the same time." "How about a dragon?" Vail suggested. "That seemed to be Jaeger's favorite." Adan started. "I must hear more of your friendship with this Vector." He handed the box to Vail, and gently scooped Jade into his arms, wrapping a clean blanket

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about her. She let out a soft gasp of pain, and held to his neck, her head resting against his chest. Vail watched, his heart aching to hold his own wife. "I will not let Brede hurt you again," Adan whispered. He kissed her forehead lightly. She looked up at him, a small smile on her pale lips, then snugged her head against his chest, as if she had done so numerous times. Adan smiled, and led the way from the flat, seeking space and solitude in the alleyways behind the building.

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Chapter 37 "They're gone." Jaeger's voice was flat. "But we know Vail was here, and he's alive," Baris put in. He hoped his voice carried enough reassurance to ease Jaeger's turmoil. They had reached Jade's flat shortly after lunch, only to find the place abandoned. Vector magic swirled in a confused mess with witchery. "This place reeks of iron," Jaeger said softly. "Why would Vail need to use so much magic?" "Perhaps this is an answer," Quentin said from near one of the beds. Jaeger and Baris joined him, both gasping out loud at the blood staining the bedclothes. "Damn!" Jaeger cried. "If only I was a pure Vector! I could have found him! He needn't have suffered." He whirled away, and stomped toward the door. "Jaeger!" Baris stopped him. "We don't know that it's Vail's blood." "It is not," Quentin said. Jaeger looked back at him. "How do you know?" "The same way you would if you would calm down and look at the facts. There is no excess iron in this blood, not the kind that would be prevalent with so much magic use. But there is salt. If I had to make a guess, I would say this is the result of a miscarriage." Baris frowned. "A miscarriage? But why would Vail be involved in this?" "Why indeed?" Quentin agreed. "I suggest we follow the trail left to us by the Vector." He motioned toward the door, and the trio went back outside. They followed the sense of Vector magic to an alleyway, where they stopped. "He shifted," Jaeger said softly. "He must have taken Vail with him." He rubbed at his face. "He must have realized his prize - a witch and a bleeder. He won't relinquish Vail easily." "Why don't we find out?" Quentin asked.

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Jaeger nodded his agreement but Baris abruptly drew back. "You go on ahead. I'll follow up." "Nonsense," Quentin replied, his gaze fixed on Baris. "We shall shift to robins only. No sense in being obtrusive with our magic." Jaeger frowned, wondering at the choice. A hawk or an eagle, certainly a larger bird than a robin, would have been a better choice, a swifter journey. But he wasn't about to question Quentin on his decision. Baris flushed, as if embarrassed, but gave a terse nod. Together the three Vectors shifted, and winged away over the city, following the magic Adan had earlier cast. *** "There." Vail sat back, wiping the sweat from his brow. "That should be deep enough to keep any wild animal from digging." He dropped the heavy stick he had been using to gouge a small grave into the ground. Jade had chosen a sloped place in the meadow that faced east and the rising sun. With the coming of morning, her child's soul would rise with the sun and be lifted to an eternal life. Or so she said. Vail knew nothing of such religion. To his way of thinking, the child had already been delivered to the afterlife. But he kept his opinions to himself, and now reached for the box holding the infant's body. He placed it gently in the hole, then looked to Jade who sat nearby. Silently she mouthed a prayer and dropped a handful of wildflowers onto the box. Just as silently, Vail covered the box in the rich dark soil of the meadows. For a long moment the only sound was the wind whispering in the trees bordering the meadow and Jade's soft sobs. "We should go," Vail finally murmured. "Brede has not arrived," Adan said. "I don't think he will come. Why would he? He knows what you are. He won't risk it. We should go. Jade needs rest." Adan sighed, his anger evident. "Then it appears I shall have to seek him out. He will not go unpunished." Vail sighed but said nothing. In truth, he didn't want to see the man again, didn't want to look into the dark eyes so empty, cold and calculating. At the same time, 216

revenge burned in his gut. He, too, wanted to see the man punished. But not now. Not when he was feeling so weak, so drained, so degraded. He needed to build his strength first, to get his emotions under control. Besides, what right did he have to dispense justice? Wouldn't it be better left to the law? He was about to mention that when Adan suddenly stiffened. "He is here," he whispered, and turned toward the path that wound up the hillside from the village below. Vail turned as well, his stomach churning madly. "Help me up," Jade mumbled. "Please." Vail did so, then handed her the stick he had been using. She leaned on it like a crutch, and clung to Adan's arm, her face white. A few moments later, Brede sauntered into the meadow, his chest heaving from the exertion of the climb. Two of his bodyguards were with him, their faces red and sweaty. He stopped at the sight of the trio before him. "I'm here," he said, his voice cool and disinterested. "And I see you've brought your little friends along. What do you want with me now? It would seem you're well situated. You have a lover...no, make that two lovers. Who's to say which is the better at it, eh?" Vail stiffened, his jaw tightening in rage. He took a step forward, but Adan detained him. "I asked you to come alone," the Vector said. Brede gave a sly grin. "That would have been foolish. I know a little something of Vectors, of your strength." "Do you? Then you must also know that these two men of yours could not stop me either." "Maybe not, but I hedged my bets a little more carefully than that." He gestured and three more men stepped from behind, all holding loaded crossbows. Vail had never even seen them, and judging from the way Adan stiffened, he hadn't either.

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"As I said," Brede went on. "I know my Vectors. These arrows are pure oak. One clean shot and you're as dead as any mortal man. Now, tell me, why should I not kill you here and now?" Vail shot a glance at Adan, but the Vector seemed to have his attention elsewhere than on Brede. A second later, two huge hawks swooped over the meadow, and Adan threw himself to the ground, taking Jade and Vail with him. Vail cried out in pain, then watched in astonishment as the hawks attacked two of the armed men. Their arrows dislodged, whirring through the air, to slam into the hillside many paces off their mark. They threw themselves to the ground, covering their heads with their arms. The third man lost his composure, and attempted to swing his crossbow like a flail. Instead, he slipped on the loose rock and tumbled away with only a startled shriek. The hawks came back again, this time swooping low. One grabbed each crossbow and let the weapons fall over the side of the cliff. Brede stumbled backward, watching, his mouth agape, his eyes wide with disbelief. Adan shot to his feet, his gaze snapping to the thin copse of trees to his left. A moment later, Baris emerged. Vail gasped, and struggled to rise. Brede's bodyguards took one look at a second Vector, stumbled backward down the path, and quickly disappeared from view, leaving Brede alone. The man glared after them, then shot a venomous look at Adan. "So?" Brede finally managed. "Seems I'm not the only one who likes to keep things interesting." "Baris!" Vail staggered toward the Vector, nearly collapsing into his arms. "What are you doing here? Where did you come from?" Baris didn't answer, but placed Vail behind him, as if providing his own body as a shield. Brede looked back at Adan. "Look, if this is about the woman, I no longer hold any claim to her. If you want her, she's yours." "She is not property," Adan seethed.

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"Fine," Brede said, his tone placating. He looked directly at Jade. "Consider your debt to me paid in full. Now, then," he tipped his head at Adan, "our business is concluded. I will take my leave." "Stop!" Adan's enraged roar stopped Brede in mid-step. "I will not let you go until you answer to your crimes, human!" "Enough." Quentin's voice was soft yet clear. Adan spun, astonishment, then rage, settling over his face. "No!" His cry of frustration echoed over the meadows. Jade let out a little gasp of terror, and stumbled away, while Vail stared in openmouthed disbelief as Quentin and Jaeger entered the meadows. Jaeger's look of relief at seeing Vail was unmistakable, although he stayed at Quentin's side. Quentin stopped just paces from Brede, eyeing him thoughtfully, although his words were for Adan. "You have no jurisdiction over humans." "Elder!" Adan seethed. "You cannot do this! This man...this thing...you cannot imagine the horror he dispenses." "I deal in hack, that is true," Brede said, his voice calming. He spread his hands in a dismissive gesture, obviously buoyed by Quentin's words. "But is that a crime? Really? I believe that I have supplied both Adan and Vail with something they find enjoyable and necessary. Were it not for me, why, they would be writhing in pain at this very moment." "Your occupation is not my concern," Quentin said. "I have come here for one purpose, and one purpose only - to find Adan and Vail. I have done so. What you do is not my business." "No!" Vail started forward, but was stopped by Baris' strong arm. "Baris, you don't understand! He...I..." He could not get the words past his embarrassment, but his embarrassment turned to true disbelief at Quentin's next words. "Take your leave, human, while you still may." Brede hesitated, then a smug smile crossed his face. "Then I shall do so. Jade?" He crossed to her and took up one of her hands in his, kissing it gently. She stared at 219

him as if entranced. "You were a treat, Jade, but I'm afraid the novelty has worn off. You've disappointed me beyond belief. I want nothing further to do with you. If you want this man, then you shall have him. I only pray that you know what you are in for." He gave her a cold smile, then glanced at Vail. "As for you, Vail...well, let's just say getting to know you intimately was a pleasure indeed. Do look me up sometime." He tipped his head at them all, and turned away, his measured steps and rigid spine belying his flippant attitude. "No," Vail whispered, then louder. "No!" Without a conscious thought of what he was doing, he loosed a strong blast of magic aimed squarely at Brede's retreating figure. It hit the man hard enough to propel him forward several steps. He gasped, and arched backward, his fingers reaching for the burning spot in the middle of his back. He managed to turn around, his face registering confusion and agony. "Bastard," Jade suddenly whispered, then with an enraged shriek she flung the stick she had been holding directly at him. Brede stumbled backward in surprise, then gasped as the loose rock beneath his feet gave way. He flung out his arms in an effort to stabilize himself, but there was nothing, and no one, to grab onto. With one long, piercing shriek of panic, he plunged backward from the cliffs. No one in the meadows moved to help him.

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Chapter 38 Baris slouched into a chair, aware of and yet not really seeing, the comforting warmth of Quentin's study. He was drained, physically and emotionally. He had finally told Anika of the implant, of his part in Aysha's blindness, of the fact that the child had taken blood as her first liquid, and even that Darius had blessed her with his own blood. She had figured out the implications quickly enough. Aysha was a Vector. A halfling to be sure, but still a Vector. Though Anika had said nothing hurtful, he had seen the pain and reproach in her blue eyes. It had burned through to his very soul, and he had secluded himself from her since. Still, he could not stay away forever. He needed to face his own demons, wherever they might lead him. He had a family to support, and he would support them no matter if he were with them or watching from afar. Aysha was going to need him now, need him to guide her in a life he had not wanted for her in the first place. And Sirab? Sirab needed a father, someone to teach him, love him, train him in the way of his people. He and Aysha were much alike in that regard, and Baris was acutely aware of how badly he had splintered his own family. He drew a breath of resignation, and shook his head. Once again, he was facing the fact that he might lose the only woman he had ever loved, that his family would slip from his grasp. And he had no one to blame except himself. And his addiction. He rose and went to the window to peer outside. He parted the curtains and stared into the gardens filled with afternoon sunshine and a riot of color. It seemed out of place to see such gaiety when he felt so bleak and gloomy. He released the curtains, letting them fall back into place, and returned to his chair to brood. Somewhere, in another part of the large home, Adan was also sequestered, just as trapped and full of questions as he was. They had both fallen victim to the same master, the same evil. Hack - the master of all, the master of nothing. It was because of this commonality that Darius had chosen Baris to speak to Adan first. It was not something he was looking forward to. How could he condemn the man when he had been in his place? At the least, he could understand him, but could he convince him 221

to turn away from the hack? To accept the implant that Darius had devised with the help of the witches? Baris glanced at his arm. There were two red spots beneath his sleeve now, two implants resting side by side. One still sapped his strength, still made it impossible to display his full Vector magic. The other? The other was guaranteed to make him violently ill should he ever ingest even the slightest amount of hack. He didn't care for either one but he supposed that if they were the only punishment he received for spiriting Deirdre away from the Lair, he should be extremely grateful. He still could not believe he had fallen again for her lies. She had let them slip so easily from her tongue, as always. It had not been Coleus' idea at all to have Baris take her away. She had thought up the entire plan the moment he had entered the Lair with Anika. At the least, Baris could give her credit for quick thinking. He thought it somewhat ironic that her need for revenge on him had backfired so soundly. Coleus was, if nothing else, smart. He had seen a perfect scapegoat in both Deirdre and Baris, and he wasn't above using either of them to get what he wanted - the position of Sovereign. And now? Neither Coleus nor Deirdre had attained the goals they'd sought. Baris shook his head, then looked up at the sound of footfalls in the hallway beyond the door. A moment later, the door opened and Vail peeked in. "Ah, so this is where you disappeared to." He approached Baris slowly. "What are you doing?" "Thinking. Is it time?" He started to rise but Vail shook his head. "Baris," he said softly. "Before you go speak to Adan, I have a favor to ask of you." "Of me? Speak it. I owe you much, Vail." Vail paused a moment, as if unsure whether or not to go on. Finally, he did. "I am addicted to hack, Baris. I, too, will need to withdraw from it. I...I was sort of hoping that, well, that you would be there with me." Baris looked up at him, startled. "You would want me there? Why? It is because of me that you are facing this at all." "Because of you?" 222

"If I had only gone to Erster when Darius requested it, none of this would have happened. We would have found Adan, and returned him to the Lair." "And you could predict what Deirdre had planned? Baris, if my child had been in danger, I would have done anything to protect her. Just as you did. Any father would." "Father?" Baris scoffed. "I am not fit to be a father, Vail. I have done nothing but bring heartache on those I love the most. Anika, Thale, Aysha, and now Sirab. The best thing they can do is to be far away from me." "You can't mean that." Baris raked one hand through his hair, and sagged further into the comforting embraces of the chair. "I think I do, Vail. I think the best thing for me would be to return to the Lair, to take up a position there, to leave them alone. Anika is a capable woman. She could provide a good life for the children. A life I can no longer give them." "And why can't you?" Vail asked. Baris thrust his arm forward, knowing that Vail was aware of the implants. After all, Vail had one of his own. "I have two now, Vail! Two! I have no talents, no way to earn a living, nothing to give to my children. I cannot even teach Sirab our ways, as I have little Vector strength left. What good am I to them?" Vail gently took hold of his arm, his grip reassuring. "You are their father, Baris. They love you. You love them. So much that you would risk your very life for them. My cousin is very aware of what command hack has over a person. Very aware. That's why she helped create the implant, Baris." Baris stared at him in surprise. He had known that witches had formulated the implant, but he had not known that his own wife had played such an important role in creating it. He wasn't sure how to interpret that. As usual, Vail's empathy read his turmoil. "She will not lose you to hack. She loves you far too much for that. Those were her words, Baris. I heard them." "She said that?" 223

"Aye, and right now she is lamenting how she will be able to raise a Vector child without your guidance and wisdom. Especially a Vector child who has shown remarkable abilities with his magic." Baris couldn't help a proud smile. "He is a strong boy," he murmured. "Aye, and his father is just as strong. Why do you think Darius asked you to talk to Adan? If anyone can understand him, help him, you can. Now, he waits. And I'm sure he is as uneasy and worried as you were." Baris nodded and straightened. "For one so young, you are incredibly wise. Thank you." Vail grinned up at him. "Must be my Vector blood." Baris smiled. "Must be. Fetch him then, and I'll see what I can do." "You'll do fine, Baris," Vail said softly, and left the room. Baris stared at the closed door, and prayed Vail was right. About everything. *** Adan paced the room, his chest so tight he could scarcely breathe. Each stop before the mullioned window sent new panic racing through him. He didn't want to be here at Quentin's home, didn't want to stay. He had the magic, the power to escape. But at what cost? Already he was under house arrest, put there by the Sovereign himself. To leave now, to go against Darius would mean sure death at Tribunal. In fact, there was no guarantee that he did not face that horrible method of execution already. He cursed silently, and once more paced to the far side of the room. So much had happened so quickly. He had heard about the attempt on Darius' life, had also heard that the person responsible had been condemned to death. The Sovereign was recovering, albeit slowly, and with the aid of a number of clan witches known to the Lair. His courtesan, a witch by the name of Deirdre, had been forcibly stripped of her powers, and now languished in the Lair cells awaiting her fate. Adan didn't know what that would be, but didn't suppose it would be pleasant. Still, she was human and had no fear of the Tribunal as he did. A tap on the door brought him around with a jerk.

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He bade no one to enter, yet the door opened, and Vail stepped inside. Adan was more than surprised to see the young man, yet grateful it was only him. "Greetings," he said stiffly. Vail smiled at him. "I've come to fetch you." Adan stiffened. "I see. Very well, then, I suppose I should get this over with. If I'm to be put to death at Tribunal, then so be it." He pushed past Vail toward the hallway. "Do Vectors have to cling to doom and gloom all of the time?" Vail asked, following him. Adan shot him a sour look. "I can see little else these days, Vail. I'm sorry to disappoint you." Vail shook his head, and led the way down the hall toward Quentin's study. He opened the door and motioned Adan inside. Adan drew a quick, tight breath and obeyed. He was more than surprised to find only Baris waiting for him. "I'll leave you two to talk," Vail said, and slipped out, closing the door firmly behind him. Adan and Baris studied each other a moment, then the latter motioned Adan to a chair. Adan hesitated only a moment, then again obeyed, hating himself for being so compliant. Baris sat down opposite him, but it was a moment before he spoke. When he did, his voice was soft, full of his own turmoil. "Darius asked me to speak to you," he said flatly. "Why? I don't know you." "Nor I you. But we do share more than being Vectors. We have both been enslaved by the same master. Hack." "You? When?" "Recently. In fact, I stayed in Erster for a while. I may have traveled the same alleyways you did, taken from the same sellers." "And now? I suppose you're going to tell me that with your Vector strength you fought clear of the drug to live a splendid life?" Adan could not stop the sarcasm in his voice. 225

"No," Baris said quietly. "I haven't. If truth be told, it was hell getting off hack. In fact, I crave it still. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about it, that I don't remember the euphoria it created, the sense of well-being. As for that splendid life? I might have had it, but now I am not so certain. It will take time for my wife to forgive me this latest transgression, if she ever can." Adan frowned, not certain what to say. "I did nothing wrong." "You killed." Adan stiffened. "I answered my Vector heritage. I would have done that with or without the hack. I see no reason to be punished for what I am." Baris sighed, not seeming to hear his words. "I killed," he whispered. He looked Adan in the eye. "When you killed, were you aware of what you were doing?" Adan hesitated, guilt deadening his answer. "Not always," he admitted. "Sometimes....sometimes, the hack, it --" He shrugged, unable to go on. "I know. Hack is a demanding master," Baris said. "It can make you do things you would never dream of otherwise." "If this is about the child, I did not kill him!" Adan snapped, his guilt suddenly overwhelming him. Images raced through his mind - bodies of his victims he had left drained and limp in dark places. How many had there been over the years? He didn't know. He couldn't be sure. And could he even be sure about the child? What if he had done it? What if, under the influence, he had killed a mere child? The thought made him sick. Baris shook his head, seeming to read his thoughts. "You didn't. Coleus killed him. And the young woman you left in the shed. Probably others you had fed on, but left alive. Coleus finished them off and placed the blame on you." Relief, then anger, played through Adan, and he came to his feet, fists clenched. "Then why am I here?" "To be helped." "And if I do not want that help?"

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"You have no choice." Baris rose. "Adan, don't reject this offer. You can break free of the hack. I did it. It's not pleasant, and death will beckon many times. Many times you will want to answer, but you can break free. You must." "Why?" "Do you love Jade?" Adan started, caught off guard by the sudden change in topic. "I...she...where is she?" "She's here. She's well. She's waiting for you. Do you love her?" "And what business is this of yours?" Baris shook his head in frustration. "Listen to me! I have a wife, children. My daughter, my precious daughter is blind! Because of me! Because I loved hack more than I loved her. Because I could not admit that I had a problem, because I was too sure of myself, of my Vector strength, to seek help. She was conceived while I was still trying to wean myself from the drug. And now she is blind! I can never change that, Adan. I will take the guilt of what I have done to her with me to my grave. You don't have to. Jade is a beautiful woman. You and she will have beautiful children. But don't risk doing to them what I have done to mine! Stop taking the hack. Don't let it rule your life." Adan stared at him, feeling his guilt and remorse with every fiber of his being. But stop the hack? Adan hesitated, thinking on how he'd felt those times he had waited too long for a dose. It had been unbearable. What would it be like to know that there would be no relief? That the trembling would only get worse, the pain only more intense? He wasn't sure he could handle that. Baris huffed out a resigned breath and turned away. "We have to stop this, Adan. We have to stop people like Brede. They make money on others' misery. Mine, yours, Vail's." "Vail's?" "He is addicted as well. Brede forced the drug on him. He must go through the withdrawal. It is especially painful for him. He is newly married. They were going to start a family. Now, that must wait until he is free of the drug." 227

Adan thought of the young man, how determined he had been in trying to refuse the drug, yet how his eyes had begged for it. He could only guess at the amount of pain Vail had been in from Brede's abuses, yet still he sought to control his use of the hack, rather than simply sliding into the world of oblivion it offered. Such strength was unusual for a mere human. And me, Adan suddenly thought. I am a Vector. I have a hundred times the strength of Vail. Of any human. How did I let a human like Brede control my actions, my desires, my needs? "I had hoped," Baris said softly, "that you would take my words to heart. I had hoped that you would desire freedom from hack on your own." "What does that mean?" Adan asked, tensing. Baris turned again to face him. "It means that Darius has outlawed a Vector's use of hack. No more is it up to the individual. Vectors are to be respected by humans, not feared. If a Vector is no longer in control of his own actions, he is a threat not only to the humans but to other Vectors." Baris again fixed Adan with his gaze. "As well as to himself and those he loves." Adan was quiet a moment. "I seem to have no choice in the matter," he said softly. "You have a choice in that you can do this willingly, or by force. I would advocate the first." Baris reached out and placed one hand on Adan's shoulder. "Will you let Brede win, Adan? Will you let others like him destroy more of our people? More humans like Jade?" Adan felt the warmth of Baris' hand like a comforting embrace. Tears unexpectedly filled his eyes. He had not cried for years, had never felt a reason to. He tried to blink them away, but could not. Instead, he wiped them away, embarrassed, then stared at his trembling hand. The tremors had already started. He had been too long without hack. Or had he not been long enough? His thoughts went to Jade, to the possibility that she loved him as much as he loved her, that they could create a life together, even a family. He swallowed hard. "I don't want to continue like this, Baris. I want...need your help. But where do I start?" 228

Baris sighed with relief, and squeezed Adan's shoulder. "You already have. Now, then, there's someone who would like to see you. Come with me." Adan followed him hesitantly. He wasn't up to facing Darius, to listening to another condemnation on his lifestyle, on his past. Yet, he supposed it was eminent. One did not defy the Vector Sovereign and not face the repercussions. Baris stopped before another door, and opened it. "Go in," he urged, a small, tired smile on his face. Adan frowned, and stepped into the room, heart pounding. But it was not a study, nor a library. It was a bedroom, lavishly furnished, brightened by the afternoon sunshine filtering through gauzy curtains. And Darius was not there. Only Jade, who lay in the huge, four-poster bed, well supported by a dozen pillows. Her copper hair was loose, falling over one shoulder to curl in her lap, where she absently toyed with the ends of it, her green eyes locked on his dark ones. The hideous bruises on her face had begun to fade, probably due to some magic he knew nothing about. She was beautiful, breath-taking, and he approached her, entranced, forgetting all about Baris. It wasn't until he heard the click of the door that he realized he and Jade had been left alone. She smiled, and held out her hand. He took her hand in his, and she drew him to her. "I called you," she whispered. "And this time you came." He dropped down beside her, unable to stop his tears. "I came," he finally managed. "And will you stay?" she asked, reaching up to wipe his wet cheeks. He stared at her, astonished. "You would want me to stay, after all that has happened?" "And why not? I love you." The words stunned him further. "You love me? A Vector? A drug addict? A...killer?" Jade sighed. "At least one of those I can claim myself. And how far from a killer am I? I supplied Brede with the drug that he sold to others. How many died as a result? I may not have killed outright, but I am an accomplice."

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Adan studied her for a long moment, then rose, turning aside. "And you love me why? Because of what we have in common? Because I commanded you to?" "Commanded me?" Jade's voice was soft. "Did you ever truly command me, Adan?" He frowned, thinking back. That first meeting, surely he had. But after that? He had wanted her to come to him through her own volition, her own choosing. And she had rescued him from the inn by her own choice. He knew he had not commanded her then. He turned back to face her, sinking once more into the depths of her eyes. He had wanted to discuss his relationship, the deeper reason behind it, but all that came out was, "You're beautiful." Jade smiled, and held out her hand, then suddenly turned her forearm toward him. A small red patch of skin marred the otherwise porcelain skin. Adan looked at her puzzled. "An implant? But why? You are not a Vector." "I know. I asked for it. I want to be sure that I never, ever fall into the trap of hack again." Adan reached out and touched lightly at the implant, then started when Jade gripped his hand. "I love you, Adan," she said softly, then gently kissed the back of his hand. Her words melted any doubt that yet harbored in his heart, and he sat beside her, taking her into his arms. It felt right, this new beginning. The past was gone. The future beckoned and it felt right. "I love you, Jade," he whispered, and kissed her, his soul taking flight.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR JennaKay Francis has been writing since she was 12 years old. She has written in many different genres - science fiction, children's, mainstream, poetry - but truly found her voice and love in fantasy. She writes fantasy adventure, fantasy romance, dark fantasy and children's picture books. Her first official publication was a children's poem that was the Grand Prize winner in a contest sponsored by Half-Price Books. Her prize was a $500.00 gift certificate at Half Price Books: something she took great delight in spending. She has been published in several local newsletters, several print magazines, as well as numerous online magazines in both fiction and non-fiction. You can find a listing of her books on her homepage at http://www.jennakayfrancis.com. Jenna lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, their three delightful children, two wild cats, a Chihuahua that thinks he's really a dog, one rat, one anole and a several tanks of tropical fish, frogs and newts. Oh, yeah, and a forest full of elves, fairies and magic. JennaKay is also Writers Exchange's Senior editor. JennaKay writes Young Adult fantasy, fantasy/romance, vampire novels and children's picture books. To keep track of all Jenna's numerous releases, go to her author page Writers Exchange's bookshop "Readers Eden": http://www.readerseden.com/manufacturers.php?manufacturerid=75

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