Page 67 of Nightshade

At the sound of the name, I snarled. Virgil was one of two fallen angels who’d managed to escape me when I’d sought revenge on the men who’d tortured me years ago. “What do you know of that?”

“He remains a close acquaintance of my master, Mr. Barchiel. I overheard him bragging. Bragging about things they did to yo--”

Propping my sword at his throat, I caught the flinch of Tartys’s eye. “Careful,” I warned.

“No disrespect. I would love nothing more than to watch him die.”

“And why is that?”

“My master allows him to ridicule and torment me.”

“I’m not here to effectuate your revenge.”

“Of course not. I’m only saying, I would greatly benefit from his absence.” His gaze dipped toward the sword still at his throat. “The question is … what would you give for this information?”

Groaning, I lowered the blade. “What is it you want?”

He cast his gaze aside for a moment, as if hesitant to say. “A female companion. For one night. I’ve not felt the softness of a woman since my mother. My master refuses me this favor.”

“I’m afraid I didn’t bring one with me.”

“I don’t require immediate payment, so long as you agree.”

“I agree.” Where the hell I’d find a female willing to entertain him was a mystery. One I’d have to figure out later.

“Very good. Now I will tell you. My master has a Hallow Harvest Ball planned in two weeks’ time. He will reveal a passion project he’s been working on.”

“What kind of project?”

“I know nothing of the details, but I can assure you Virgil will be in attendance that night. I will see to it that you’re added to the guest list.”

“How? Most here aren’t particularly fond of the name Van Croix.”

“Least of all, my master. Which is why I intend to add your name after he’s reviewed the final list. It will be a costumed affair, so you can remain concealed with a mask. I’ll list you under the name Havenash.”

“And Virgil?”

“Surely, you will recognize the man who nearly killed you, even in costume. I ask that you bring a female, as slaves are expected to accompany each guest.”

“Slaves for what?”

“I’m not sure. It was a request of my master that each guest bring one. I will take her to my chamber that night, and she will leave with you, I promise. If you fail to grant me this, I will expose you and your intent, and you’ll no longer have a clandestine advantage.”

I chuckled at his audacity to threaten me. “My, aren’t you a tricky one.”

Even after such bold words, he lowered his gaze from mine. “Ambitious is what I like to call it.”

“Fine. Add me to this list, and in good faith, I’ll bring you a female.”

21

Farryn

Sounds reached the dark void, and I opened my eyes to a room lit only by the moon’s glow pouring in through the sheer curtains. An ache throbbed in my head, and I flinched, rubbing the painful spot. After glutting on bread and a delicious stew I didn’t recognize, I’d poured a glass of the wine that came with my meal, in hopes the alcohol might help settle my nerves. Instead, I’d passed out.

Momentarily disoriented, I looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings, the black, crushed velvet bedding, the chaise, the armoire from where I’d borrowed a nightgown that was longer and fancier than any I’d ever slept in. Anya had taken my clothes to wash and dry after they’d gotten soaked in the rain. So, it looked like I’d be stuck in this thing until she returned to my room.

A glance at the unusual, gilt-metal, mantel clock on the nightstand beside me showed it was half-past midnight. Odd, little gargoyles perched at either side of the clock face and had creeped me out most of the night.