When Darkness Comes (Guardians of Eternity #1)(20)

Rafael twisted his lips wryly. Like most who craved power, Amil was far too ready to resort to violence when cunning was needed.

"Certainly a simpler, if more bloodthirsty, solution," he agreed. "But consider, my son. It will be a great honor for the one who offers up the Phoenix to the master. And I intend for that glory to be mine."

Amil considered for a moment before giving a nod of his head. "Of course. A clever scheme. But, why me? Why do you not do this grave task yourself?"

"Because someone must ensure that the witches do not interfere. I am the only one with the power to challenge them." He shrugged. "And, of course, you have tampered with forces that will assist you in discovering where the woman is hiding."

There was a long pause before Amil folded his hands over his chest, a faint smile upon his lips.

"This is a dangerous thing you ask of me, master. The vampire is certain to be protecting the vessel. I risk more than just my life."

Rafael struggled to hide his disdain for the man who would barter for power rather than earn it. Unfortunately, he possessed no other servants willing to call upon powers forbidden by even the Prince.

Sacrifices must be made, he reluctantly acknowledged.

Even if it meant being in league with such a pathetic fool.

"So you wish to know your reward?" he demanded in cold tones.

"I am a practical man."

Sacrifices.

Rafael grimly maintained his composure. "I shall personally take charge of your training. You wish to earn your medallion before all others? I can give you that."

The smile widened. "And a share of the Prince's gratitude?"

Rafael briefly glanced down at his hands, imagining them around the greedy Amil's neck. Then he gave a small shake of his head.

The future was poised upon the night ahead. He had to do whatever was necessary to ensure the return of his master.

"So be it."

The younger man rose to his feet, satisfaction engraved upon the narrow features.

"Then we have a bargain."

Rafael also rose, his own countenance as hard and dark as the stone walls.

"Amil, do not fail me. You have already faced death. If I discover you were unable to complete this task I set for you, then death will be the least of your worries. Do you understand?"

The apprentice possessed the sense to pale at the threat. 'Yes."

Rafael waved an impatient hand. "Then go. You have much to do before the sun sets and the vampire is at his full strength."

Amil slipped from the room, and Rafael turned to pace toward the fire that burned in the center of the floor.

The Dark Prince would soon be returned to his place of glory.

And he would be leading the way.

"Soon, my lord," he whispered.

Chapter 6

It was some hours later when Abby stirred from her deep, thankfully dreamless sleep. Lifting her heavy lids, she was at first befuddled by the feel of satin sheets brushing her skin and the shadows that filled the vast room.

She was not the sort of girl who woke up in strange rooms. Certainly not those with satin sheets and an echo that could rival St. Paul's Cathedral.

Still, it was better than the lumpy mattress and foul stench that had greeted her last time she awoke, she wryly told herself. And with the added benefit of a pair of delicious male arms wrapped about her.

Not a bad way to awaken.

At least it wouldn't be if those rotten memories of demons, witches, and being invaded by a powerful spirit didn't come crashing back.

Grimacing, Abby rolled onto her side to study the man who slept next to her.

No, not man, she fiercely reminded herself. Vampire.

Studying the wickedly perfect features in the dim light, it seemed impossible that she hadn't guessed the truth before. He was every woman's fantasy. Life had taught her that there had to be a catch somewhere.

Her lips twitched. All women knew that the sort of men who could steal a woman's heart with a glance had to be either g*y, psychotic, or married. Now she supposed she would have to add vampire to the list.

Barely aware of what she did, Abby silently lifted the duvet to reveal the lean, muscular form. Although the jeans rather disappointingly remained, he had removed his silk shirt to reveal a chest that was just as lethally beautiful as she had imagined in her heated dreams. It was broad and smooth with enough chiseled muscles to satisfy the most demanding woman. Lordy, it virtually begged to be stroked.

And thankfully there were no odd bumps or scales that plagued other demons. Not even a tattoo marred the alabaster skin.

"Good morning, lover," a husky voice abruptly intruded into the silence.

Jerking her head up, Abby took in the slit of silver glittering beneath the heavy black lashes.

Well, this was embarrassing.

It was one thing to walk about with toilet paper stuck to her shoe. Or have lipstick on her teeth. Or even to destroy a priceless Ming vase.

But to be caught openly leering at a half-naked man while he slept…

It was downright lewd.

She abruptly dropped the duvet as if it might scorch her fingers.

"I… didn't realize that you were awake," she managed to croak.

"I may be dead, but not even I can sleep while a beautiful woman ogles me." His lips curved in a sardonic smile. "Tell me, sweet, what were you searching for? A horn and tail?"