Deadly Design

by Brandy L Rivers

“Cosmo,” Monique added.

  The bartender smiled, starting on the drinks.

  Monique captured Erik’s chin, pulling his gaze to hers, then leaned in to brush her lips over his. “My love won’t dry up after we find the answers. Forty-two years away from you couldn’t kill my love.”

  His restraint broke at her soft confession. His tongue slipped between her lips, caressing hers. She leaned closer, her breasts pressing against his chest.

  Her hands tangled in his shirt, and he had to pull away to catch his breath. Her eyes burned dark as she watched him.

  “Remember, we have a purpose here,” Erik whispered.

  “Haven’t forgotten, just distracted.” She swept her drink off the counter and drank it down. Turning, Monique scanned the crowd and turned back with a nod. “Let’s dance.”

  He tossed down some money and drank his whiskey neat. “Lead the way,” he murmured.

  Monique pulled him into the midst of the crowd and moved against his body, her hands curling around his ribs as she leaned up to whisper against his ear. “The woman, near the corner. She’s a mage and a client.”

  He managed a glance over. Margot Demoza. High-ranking Silver Council enforcer. Though she seemed to be on Robert’s side.

  “Don’t think she’s our culprit.”

  “Why do you say that? She’s watching you like you’re of great interest.”

  He nuzzled her ear. “She’s one of Robert’s supporters. Long-standing friendship with Draecyn. Of course, anything is possible, so I’m not writing off your concern.”

  “Would she make a move in public?” Monique asked.

  “How so?”

  “She’s coming this way.”

  Erik managed to dance his way to face Margot.

  She sidled up next to them. “We need to speak, Mortale.”

  She’d never spoken directly to him, but he nodded, curious what she had to say. He knew Ward Tower Security watched Shenanigans. If they had any inkling anything would happen, they would have already removed her. The threat was low.

  He threaded his fingers through Monique’s and followed the mage to her table in the corner. Margo motioned for them to sit, which they did.

  Margot leaned forward. “You’re a brave man. Going out when it’s known a dark mage is trying to tear the DSF apart.”

  “Can’t sit around hiding forever. And if we’re going to get to the bottom of this, a little bait never hurt.”

  “But this mage could drain you dry without much thought.”

  Monique smirked. “We’ll see.”

  Margot’s brow arched as she turned to Monique. “I’d ask, but secrets are best kept in times like these.”

  “Agreed,” Monique answered. “What’s your interest in the case?”

  “We may not all be created equal, but we all share this planet. Our varied talents should be celebrated, not admonished for being different.”

  Monique dipped her head.

  “Besides, programs like the DSF open the way for mage hybrids to be welcomed into the Council.” She translocated from the booth, leaving Monique and Erik alone.

  Monique turned slowly. “Did she just say hybrids?”

  Erik nodded. “Not talking about that here.”

  “Is she one?”

  He shrugged. “No clue. Again, not something to talk about here. There are still those in the Council who would hunt most hybrids based on an outdated principle.”

  “Aren’t you one?”

  “Yeah, but bad time to talk about that.”

  Her eyes slid shut as she breathed deep. He knew the direction of her thoughts, but she held her tongue, amazingly enough.

  He’d started to wonder if the rumors of the Dark Templar existed. Mages who were secretly attached to the Silver Council and hunted all hybrids of interest, among what they considered dangerous casters, like necromancers.

  And considering the last forty-eight hours, it was a safe bet that they were somehow involved if they existed. He didn’t have proof, but he did suspect it.

  Erik pulled his phone out. “We need to talk to Robert. Maybe Preston too. Let me send a message.”

  Chapter 27

  Consuela settled into her suite and changed into yoga pants and a tank. She wanted to be comfortable to work her magic. Drawing a deep breath, she poured salt directly onto the wood floor in a circle. She’d watched others create fancy patterns, but she only needed a protective circle to protect herself, and in case needed, capture malicious spirits or other dead creatures.

  The soft noises of the quiet lake wafted through the open room. The doors to the balcony were open to let what she found in. Hopefully there was something nearby with information she could use to help in Erik’s case.

  Finding an ally who was like her was favorable to angering a friend. Monique and Consuela may not be close, but she hoped they would be if she moved to Edenton.

  Tomorrow, she could sort that out, at brunch.

  Tonight, she hoped to find some useful information. For herself, for Erik Mortale, and for the magister and his lieutenant. Perhaps she could still gain their trust.

  She wanted to be welcome in Edenton. Right now, she was tolerated.

  The town’s reaction gave her a whole new perspective. Especially when Jess didn’t judge her outright and left room for her unease to change.

  She drew another, smaller circle outside the first and erected barriers to keep herself safe. Once a hush fell throughout the room, she began chanting, calling all roaming dead within several miles.

  Ghosts filled the room one by one, as if popping into existence, but considering most could travel miles, or across the world with a thought, that was unsurprising. None would look at her, and she let them be. She wanted to converse with far more interesting dead.

  Besides, the ghosts would chime in sooner or later. The first through the open door was a young man, half dressed, streaked with sweat. A vampire. Next was a young woman, her dress askew, underwear gone. Another vampire, probably nearby fucking. Interesting.

  Consuela was about to ask something when another man walked in, quite forcibly attempting to resist the command. Her lips quirked as words left her. Emerald eyes flashed to her. His red hair streaked with silver flopped into his eyes and he brushed it away as he glared at her.

  “Necromancy?” he hissed.

  The younger vampires’ mouths fell open. The girl leaned into the male. He attempted to comfort her by running his hand up and down her back, but he looked just as concerned once the older man said something.

  “I merely have questions and you will be on your way. I assure you I’m not about to enslave any of you. Unfortunately, spirits aren’t always as…informed.” She shrugged.

  “What do you mean? They see all,” the redhead countered.

  “Simple. Depending on when they died, they aren’t always the best at explaining modern things. Generally, even vampires adapt better than most spirits.”

  He snorted. “You’ve stolen our wills by bringing us here.”

  She shrugged. “Unfortunately, I had little choice as the rest of the residents aren’t eager to speak to me. Considering what I’m looking into may affect all of you, I thought you might be willing to help. Please, just answer a few questions. I don’t want to force you further than I have.”

  “Help how?” he asked, trying to reach the outer edge of the circle. She smiled. “That circle of power was erected with very specific instructions. I promise, once you share the information I need, all three of you and the spirits will be free.”

  The door to the hall flew open and Consuela was lifted off her feet by one hand around her neck, a snarling vamp bitch in her face. “Release them! Do it now, or I will break your neck, Deathcaller.”

  The redhead half laughed. “I’d listen to Victoria. She’s too strong for your spells.”

  Consuela lifted her hands in surrender, but the woman was crushing her windpipe.

 
Dark hair fell around pale skin. Her dark eyes glittered red. Definitely vampire, but something more. Consuela’s magic held no sway over her. Very curious.

  “Vic, give her a chance to speak,” someone said in a smooth, gentle voice.

  From the corner of her eye, Consuela found a beautiful winged man. Not full angel, but definitely descended.

  Consuela crashed to her knees, her hands going to her throat as she gasped for air.

  “Release them,” the strange vampire hissed.

  Panting, she got out, “A moment.”

  “Let her breathe,” the Nephilim insisted.

  The redhead spoke up, “I don’t believe she meant harm, Victoria. This woman claims she wants information that may help the people of Edenton. Let her explain.”

  Consuela met the green-eyed vampire’s gaze and took a slow breath. Then she moved her gaze to the vampire she had to watch. The one she couldn’t control if things got out of hand. Not without calling on entities she wanted to stay locked away.

  “I’ll break the circle,” Consuela stated simply and whispered the words. The redhead moved to Consuela and crouched down, touching her chin. “What information are you looking for? Why?”

  “Erik Mortale was accused of a ritualistic murder. He was framed, but the mage who committed the crime didn’t even attempt to make it look like a true ritual. Someone must have put them up to it. My guess, to end the DSF, and the way they’re going about it will put all necromancers, mediums, and any type of Deathcaller under suspicion once again. I want to ensure we find who set him up and prevent any further attempts at trashing his name.”

  “By trashing your own?” the woman snapped. “I’ve heard stories of you, Consuela Bordeaux. Voodoo priestess.” She snorted. “No regard for the dead at all.”

  Consuela stood, meeting the older vampire’s gaze. “I wasn’t expecting this many vampires in Edenton. Nor did I want to do more than question them or the spirits. I’m not as bad as the rumors portray, but I’ll admit to mistakes.”

  Victoria’s head tipped to the side. She held out her hand.

  Consuela took it, shaking, surprised the woman didn’t crush her hand.

  The vampire smirked, pointing to herself. “Victoria. This is Declan.” She pointed to the redhead before motioning to the other two vampires. “Jared and Amanda, who have been in hiding around here until we’re sure they can handle being around Others without feeding.” She nodded to the mulatto. “This is Lincoln.”

  His wings stretched out before lying against his back and disappearing. “See, there was an explanation.”

  Victoria’s brow arched. “The excuse isn’t acceptable for the error in judgment, though if we can help clear Erik, we will. Not by force. Ask your questions.”

  “First, let me apologize. I am sorry. This was the fastest way to find answers, wrong as it may be.”

  “What’s your interest in Erik?” Declan asked.

  “We share some of the same abilities. I’ve lived through more than two centuries and have nearly been put to death because people rarely understand our gifts.”

  “Centuries?” Victoria asked.

  “Yes. And now that Robert McCallister is making leeway in having mages accept all casters and Others, I want to ensure his new program moves forward. Maybe eventually the Silver Council will stop being run by only mages.”

  Declan turned to Victoria. “She has a point.”

  Consuela smiled. “Have you heard anything about a mage who would want to stop the program?”

  Victoria shook her head. “No. I have not. Though I don’t expect many would. Mages aren’t going to wander here. You’d be better off asking whatever spirits you’ve called. They can wander where they please.”

  Consuela nodded. “Sorry for interrupting everyone’s lives. It was a brash move.”

  “To protect yourself and another who we all call a friend, I’ll forgive you this once. Though I warn you to be careful with your spells.” She glanced at the salt circles. “And clean up the mess. There is a broom in the closet down the hall.”

  “Of course.” Then her eyes widened. “You’re the one the lake is named for.”

  She nodded, a smirk on her lips. “I am. And you may be older, but I’m not your average vampire. I will not allow those I protect to be used.”

  “Of course. Again—” Consuela started.

  “Don’t apologize. Perhaps Declan can offer his help.” One corner of Victoria’s mouth tipped up. “You seem to have gained some trust from him.”

  Consuela looked into his green eyes. “If you’re willing. Though I’m not sure where to start. Seems Seattle would be the better choice.”

  He nodded. “You’re right about that, though if a mage can feel your magic like I can, I’m not sure how close we’ll get.”

  “In life, what were you?”

  “Druid.”

  She grazed a strand of his hair. “Why the silver?”

  “I’d given up my magic when I learned my wife passed away while I was in captivity. I foolishly believed my children were safer without me to interfere in their lives.” He glanced away, his eyes closing. “That’s neither here nor there.”

  Victoria rolled her eyes. “He was made into a Shadowstalker against his will. He gave up his magic for love. Don’t worry, he’s never tasted Other blood, and I trust him with you and any Other.” She glanced at the other two. “Jared isn’t quite there yet, but close. And Amanda hasn’t learned to trust herself.”

  They dipped their heads.

  “You can go.” Victoria nodded to the door.

  The younger vampires left in a blur.

  “Could I bother you for your number? I may need to ask questions later, and I won’t do this again.”

  Smiling, Victoria plucked a card from her skirt. “Here. If you need me, call. Anytime of the day or night.”

  “Thank you.” Consuela took the card.

  Victoria held her hand out to Lincoln. “If I gain any knowledge, I’ll share what I know. Don’t worry, I can access your records here.”

  Consuela smiled. “And if I learn anything I’ll pass it on.”

  Lincoln nodded his head, a smile on his face as he led Victoria from the room.

  “Consuela Bordeaux?” Declan asked.

  She braced herself. “Heard the worst?”

  “No, but heard interesting things about you. Not all bad, either.”

  “No?”

  Smirking, he shook his head. “No. That’s not important, though. Where would you like to start looking for answers?”

  “Have a suggestion?”

  He frowned. “No, but perhaps one of my children might.”

  Her brow arched. “Children?”

  He shrugged. “Fallon Dean and Declan O’Shea.”

  “Oh, I have heard of you. Though I know more about your daughter.” She smiled, trailing her fingers over her thigh. “Fallon does amazing work.”

  “That she does. We’ll start with her, since you’re already acquainted.”

  * * * *

  Consuela parked in front of a large craftsman style home. Four-car garage. She’d never expected to see Fallon in a place like that. Though Declan had filled her in on the druid’s mating, marriage, and motherhood.

  She parked the town car and climbed out.

  Declan appeared before her with a smile. “I would have got that.”

  “Even after I forced you to come to me?”

  A sly smile pulled at his lips. “Your intentions are pure. Misguided, but we all have moments of bad judgment. You’re forgiven.”

  Consuela licked her lips. “Thank you.”

  “Come on. Hopefully I’ll see my grandbabies before they go to bed.”

  Consuela paused, her eyes swinging his way. “Grandchildren?”

  Grinning, he nodded. “Fallon has twins.”

  Pushing down the mild shock, she continued to the porch where she met the cool gaze of a woman wit
h gray eyes and dark hair. The ghost’s arms crossed over her chest. “Who are you?”

  “Consuela, and I’m hoping the person inside can help me find someone I want to help.”

  “There’s something very wrong with you,” she hissed. “No one else sees me but one.”

  “Erik? That’s who I want to help.”

  Declan turned to her. “Who are you talking to?”

  The woman’s eyes grew sad as she turned to Declan. “Someone who wronged him.” She sighed. “Tell him Sarah still watches over Brody and Fallon.”

  Consuela turned to Declan. “Her name’s Sarah. She watches over Fallon and Brody.”

  “For what it’s worth, I don’t blame you, Sarah,” he answered with a smile. “And you gave me back life to see my family grow and expand.”

  Sarah blinked back tears. “Tell Devlin I’m sorry for everything.”

  Consuela took his hand and relayed the message.

  He looked down and smiled. “My son would never wish you ill. Because of you, he found his mate. I’m sorry you didn’t make it.”

  Declan gasped as he looked right at the spirit standing before him. “I see you,” he whispered.

  She moved forward and hugged Declan. Her hand went through his back and Sarah sniffled. “I’m still sorry.”

  “You were never to blame. You were in a bad position.”

  “Tell Brody to be happy.”

  A light formed over her, spreading down until she disappeared.

  “Did she move on?” Declan asked.

  “Yes. She’s found her peace.”

  “Thank you,” he whispered, wiping away pink-tinged tears.

  “You’re the one who told her what she needed to hear.”

  “Because you were here to help me hear.”

  A blond man opened the door with an arched brow. The girl he held had a cap of golden curls and big blue eyes like his. “Everything okay?”

  Declan nodded. “Hey, Brody. This is Consuela Bordeaux. She knows Fallon, and we could really use some information from the two of you.”

  He dipped his head. “Of course, but why were you talking to Sarah? She’s dead and gone.”

  Declan glanced over. “She’s something like Erik. Sarah’s been watching over your family. She says to be happy.”