Cove r

Title Page

TheRoman

...

SylvainReynard

...

EverAfterPublishing,NewYork

CopyrightInformation

TheRoman,Copyright©2016bySylvainReynard

AllRightsReserved.ExceptaspermittedundertheU.S.CopyrightActof1976,nopartofthispublicationmaybereproduced,distributed,or

transmittedinanyformorbyanymeans,orstoredinadatabaseorretrievalsystem,withoutpriorwrittenpermissionofthepublisher.

...

EverAfterPublishing

...

FirstpublishedDecember2016

...

ISBN:978-1-68230-677-2

...

Thecharactersandeventsinthisbookarefictitious.Anysimilaritytorealpersons,livingordead,iscoincidentalandnotintendedbythe

author.

...

CoverDesignbyHeatherCarrierDesigns

InteriorBookDesignbyCoreenMontagna

PraiseforTheRaven

“AfabulousGothictreatofabookfilledwithancientvampires,darkvendettas,andstar-crossedlove.”

~DeborahHarkness,

#1NewYorkTimesbestsellingauthor

DiscoveryofWitchestrilogy

“Thisbookknocksovergenreandswirlsitintoanaddictingmixofmystery,romanceandfantasy.With
nearlylyricalproseandmagicalcharactersthatsteprightoffthepages,TheRavenisgoingtomakeSR
diehardsandnewcomersalikenurseanepicbookhangover.”

~ChristinaLauren,

NewYorkTimesbestsellingauthor

BeautifulBastardseries

“Reynardneverdisappoints,especiallywhenitcomestocreatingwell-developedcharactersandgranting
readers an invitation to use their imaginations. This dark, sexy tale is nestled in the mysterious city of
Florenceandwillamazeandenchantreadersthroughout.Theauthortriestheparanormalgenreonforsize
and,notsurprisingly,it’saperfectfit.”

~RTBookReviews

“I’m loving this series…Sylvain Reynard’s writing is exquisitely beautiful and it evokes such emotion
andvividimagery…Compulsivereadingasthereaderissweptawayinanintriguingsensualromanceset
intheheartofFlorence.RavenandWilliam’sstoryisaddictiveandmesmerizingasnewmeetsoldwith
humour,passion,dangerandmystery.”

~TotallyBookedBlog

“SylvainReynard’sdarkandmysteriousworldofTheFlorentineanditsvampiresissensual,passionate
anddeadly.”

~TheReadingCafe

PraisefortheGabrielTrilogy

“IfoundmyselfenrapturedbySylvainReynard’sflawlesswriting.”

~TheAutumnReview

“Emotionallyintenseandlyrical.”

~TotallyBookedBlog

“TheProfessorissexyandsophisticated…Ican’tgetenoughofhim!”

~KristenProby

USATodaybestsellingauthor

“Anunforgettableandrivetinglovestorythatwillsweepreadersofftheirfeet.”

~Nina’sLiteraryEscape

“SylvainReynard’swritingiscaptivatingandintense…It’shardnottobedrawntothedarklypassionate
andmysteriousGabriel,acharacteryou’llbedroolingandpiningfor!”

~WavesofFiction

“A must read whether you’re a longtime fan of [Sylvain Reynard]’s or have never read a word he’s
written.Thewritingasalwaysdeservesspecialmentionforitsstyleandbeauty.”

~BookishTemptations

“Thestorywasmagnificent,thecharactersandworldcomplex.”

~RomanceatRandom

BooksbySylvainReynard

Gabriel’sInferno

Gabriel’sRapture

Gabriel’sRedemption

TheRaven

TheShadow

TheRoman

***

Novella

***

ThePrince

De dication

ToFlorence,Rome,andPrague,

withgratitude

Prologue

May2013

Florence,Italy

S

HE

W

AS

D

YING

.

The Prince heard her heart stutter and slow and her breathing grow even shallower. The young

womanwiththebravesoulandthegreatgreeneyeswasdying.

Thehumanshadsmashedherskullintoawall.Nodoubtherbrainwasinjured.Theskinonherarms

waspale,almosttranslucent.Herfacewasbruisedandsmearedwithblood.

ThePrincehadseengoodnessdie,notoncebuttwice.He’dhelditinhishandsandseenthelifeebb

outofit,likesandsiftingthroughhisfingers.

Hewouldnotletsuchbeautydie.

Out of sight of the other vampyres, he retrieved the illustrations he’d left on the roof. He cradled

themalongwiththewomanasheflewacrossthePonteVecchiototheothersideoftheArnoRiver.With
every step, he focused his ancient hearing on the sound of her heartbeat, worried it would fall silent
beforehereachedthesafehavenofhisvilla.

Hewouldhavetogiveheragreatdealofvampyrebloodinordertohealher.Itwaspossibleshe

wasbeyondhelp.Anditwouldn’tbehisbloodhewouldgivetoher.Noteventosaveherlife.

ThePrincequickenedhispace,hisfiguremovinglikeajaggedflashoflightningupthehill.Whenhe

reachedtheheavyirongatesthatsurroundedhishomehepaused,holdingthewomanmoretightly.Witha
cry,heleaptoverthebarrier,landinglikeacatontheotherside.Thewomangroanedatthemovement,
andhereyesflickeredopen.

“Cassita,”hewhispered,hisgrayeyesmeetinghers.“Stayawake.”

Hereyesrolledbackintoherhead.

“Sard,”hecursed,sprintingtothefrontdoorofthevillaandbarrellinginside.

He didn’t bother calling for his servants; he had mere minutes, perhaps even seconds before her

heartstoppedbeating.Forever.

To his massive library he flew, pressing one of the volumes on the shelf. A wooden panel on a

nearbywallmoved,revealingahiddendoor.

Without hesitation, the Prince entered the absolute darkness that shrouded the doorway and

descended a staircase, stepping nimbly until he reached the lower level. He ran down the hall until he
reachedaheavyirondoor.Hepressedasecretcodeintoanumberpadandwaitedimpatientlyasthedoor
opened.

Thewoman’sheartgrewfainterstill.

Heheldherclose,pressingherfaceintohisneck,asifhisstrengthcouldbepassedtoher.Asif,by

histouch,hecouldkeepherfromdeath.

He wound his way through row upon row of wine bottles, carefully stacked in tall, wooden racks

that reached over six feet in height. He moved to the very back of the wine cellar, where his oldest
vintageswerestored.

Placingthewomanonawoodentable,heputhisillustrationstooneside.He’dattendtothem(and

hisrevenge)later.

ThePrincechoseoneofhismostpreciousvintages,thebloodofanoldonehe’ddestroyedinthe

fourteenth century. He uncorked the bottle and swept his finger inside, retrieving a black substance. He
placedhisfingerinthewoman’shalf-openmouth.

Itwasn’tthebestwaytofeedher.Shewasunconsciousandunabletoswallow.Hecouldonlyhope

thatthevampyrebloodwoulddissolveintohersystem,stavingoffherimminentdeath.

Withinaminute,thewomandrewasharpbreath.

Hewithdrewhisfinger,notingitwasclean.Hejammeditintothewinebottleonceagain,coatingit

withmorelife-sustainingdarkness.

Heplacedhisfingerinhermouth,andthistimehertonguemoved.Aweakhalf-swallowfollowed.

Hewhisperedoldwordsinherear,lapsingintoLatinasheexhortedher.

The woman’s heart skipped a beat, then increased its movements until it was beating slowly but

steadily.Herlungsdrewadeeperbreath.Hecouldhearherveinsbegintohumastheforeignsubstance
mixedwithherbloodtoflowthroughherbody.

Butthesewerereflexes—thebodyhungeringforlifewhilethemindremainedunconscious.

Hefedheralittlemorebloodbymouth.Althoughshewasbreathing,herpulseremainedweak.She

needed vampyre blood in greater quantities than she could take orally. But he couldn’t risk moving her
untilhewassatisfiedshe’dsurvivethetimeitwouldtaketosetupatransfusion.

ThePrincecursedtheanimalsthathadattackedher.

Hefedhertwicemorebeforechoosingseveralvaluablevintagesfromhiscollectionandjamming

them under his arm. He’d leave the illustrations behind, for the present. They were safe enough in his
winecellar.Althoughthethiefhadtakenthemfromhishomebefore…

Heliftedthewoundedlarkintohisarmsandtransportedhertothehallway.Hewhisperedtoheras

heclimbedthestaircase,begginghertoholdfasttolife.

Hewasfarfromcertainshe’dsurvivethetransfusion.Butforthesakeofthegoodnessofhersoul,he

wouldtry.

ChapterOne

August2013

Florence,Italy

“T

HE

H

UMAN

I

S

D

EAD

.”Gregor’sRussianaccentwasfarmorepronouncedashespokenervouslytothe

PrinceofFlorence.

ThePrincehadjustregainedcontrolofhisprincipalityandwasclosetedwithhisformerassistant,

outofreachofpryingeyesandears.

“Dead?”ThePrince’sstoicexpressionslipped.

“Yes,mylord.Apparently,hewastryingtoprotectyourpetandhersisterwhenMaximiliankilled

him.HecamewiththesisterfromAmerica.”

“Where’sthebody?”ThePrinceabruptlyunsheathedandsheathedhissword.

“Withthepolice.There’stobeanautopsy.”Gregorhesitated.

ThePrincespearedhisassistantwithalook.“And?”

“ThehumanintelligencenetworkisconcernedaboutapolicemannamedBatelli.Althoughheisn’t

involvedinthemurderinvestigation,he’sawareyourpetandhersisterhavedisappeared.He’sclaiming
aconnectionbetweenallofthisandtherobberyoftheUffizi.”

The Prince bared his teeth. “An autopsy will expose us. Instruct the network to claim the body as

soonaspossible.TheyaretokeepituntilIgivethemfurtherinstructions.”

The Prince strode toward the door of his study without a backward glance. Raven and her sister

wouldbedevastatedtolearnthatDanielwasdead.Thatis,iftheywerestillalive.

He touched the handle of the door. “Assemble the army and order them to stand guard along the

borders. Word of the attempted coup will spread. It’s possible even one of our allies will take this
opportunitytoattackus.Wemustbeprepared.”

Gregorbowed.“Yes,mylord.”

“Telltheloyalthetreasurywillbeopenedinordertorewardthem.YouandAoibhearetooversee

thedistribution,andItaskyouwithkeepinghergenerositymoderate.”

ThePrinceplacedhishandonthehiltofhissword.“Youandshearethelastremainingmembersof

theConsilium.I’msureyou’reawareyoucannottrusther.Itseemsshe’sbeencolludingwithIbarra,who
isstillaliveandroamingthecity.I’vedispatchedahuntingpartytolocatehim.”

“Ibarra?”Gregor’seyeswidened.“Butyouexecutedhim.”

“Idid.”ThePrinceworeagrimexpression.“Itseemshewas…resurrected.”

Gregor blinked. “He’s as powerful as Aoibhe, if not more so. A hunting party will have difficulty

fellinghim.”

“ThatiswhywemustbeonourguardandwhyI’mtaskingyouwithoverseeingthesecurityofthe

city.KeepaclosewatchonAoibhe,andseethatIbarraisdestroyed.Ishallbeatmyvilla,tryingtostave
offawarwiththeCuria.”

Gregorfidgetedwithhishands.“Begpardon,mylord.Ithoughtthegiftofthehumanfemaleswould

beenoughtoplacatethem.”

The Prince’s expression tightened. “Only if they arrive unspoiled. The conflict with Machiavelli

delayedmeinsendingcourierstoourneighbors.Andthereareotherdangers.”

Alookpassedbetweenthetwovampyres.

“Ihopetheywillarrivesafely,mylord.”

“Wemayhope,Gregor,butoverthecenturiesI’velearntnottosurrendermyfatetohope.Seetothe

armyandbecautious.EitherIbarraorAoibhemaytrytotakeyourhead.”

The Prince opened the door and entered the corridor, striding purposefully toward a secret

undergroundpassage.

Onceheenteredthepassageandclosedthehiddendoorbehindhimself,hebrokeintoarun.

Hehopedhewouldnotbetoolate.

ChapterTwo

W

ILLIAM

I

S

D

EAD

.

TherealizationrepeatedlikeamaddeningrefraininRaven’smind.

MachiavellihadseizedcontrolofFlorenceandsentRavenandhersisterasapeaceofferingtothe

Curia.He’dprobablyexecutedWilliamalready,makinghisascenttothethronecomplete.

Ravenshuthereyes,toodistraughttocry.

William’slastacthadbeentobreakhispromise.He’dswornthey’dstaytogether,buthe’dallowed

thesoldierstotakeheraway.Hehadn’tevendrawnasword.

Jet’aim,he’dmouthed,asthesoldiersdraggedher.Alastlook,alastmeetingoftheeyes,andshe

wastornfromhim.

Nowhewasdead.

The vampyre who was carrying her stumbled. Raven hung over his shoulder, her face at his back.

Shefistedhisshirtinordertohangon.

Hesmackedherbottom.“Letgo,youcow.You’llfellusboth!”

Anger,quickandhot,overtookher.Shemadeafistandpunchedhiminthekidney.

Herfistmetsomethinghardandunyielding.

“Ow!”sheshrieked,cradlingherhand.“Whatwasthat?”

Thesoldierlaughed.“Kevlar.We’rewearingvests.”

Ravengrabbedhisshirtoverthevest,pullingittautagainstthefrontofhisbody.“Touchmeagain

andyou’llanswertotheCuria.”

Herwordswereenoughtohaltthevampyre.Hischesteruptedinagrowl.“Whatdidyousay?”

“Youheardme.WhenwegettoRome,theCuriawillwanttoknowhowIwastreated.AndI’lltell

them.”

“You’rejustahuman,”hespat.“Youneedtolearnyourplace.”

“Sodoyou.TheCuriahassworntoeliminateyouandtheothers.Doyoureallywanttogivethem

anotherreasontokillyou?”

Thesoldierdidn’tmove.Itwasasifthewheelsofhismindwereturning,measuringherwords.

“Be smart,” she continued, releasing his shirt. “Keep me and my sister safe, and you’ll be

rewarded.”

“ArewardfromtheCuriaisworthnothing,”hesnarled.

BeforeRavencouldrespond,footstepsapproached.

“Youthere,”adeepvoicebarked.“Keeprunning.”

“Yes,commander.”Thesoldiertookoffathighspeed.

Ravennotedwithsatisfactionthathenowheldhercloselybutcautiously.Herthreathadworked.

Shehadapiercingheadacheandwasnauseatedafterbouncingonthesoldier’sshoulderforhours.

Thelandscapewasstillbathedinblackness.Shewasfairlysuresunrisewasapproaching,butshehadno
ideaofthetime.Shewasn’twearingawatch,andhercellphonewastuckedintoapocket.Thesoldier
hadn’tseemedtonoticeit.

She still wore the gold bracelet William had given her some months ago. It signified their

connection.Butthesoldierhadn’tseemedtonoticeit,either.

Shecalledouttohersister,earningacommandof“Silence.”Shedefiedthesoldiertwice,butCara

didn’trespond.Shemuststillbeunconscious.

Cara’s current state was Raven’s fault. She’d failed to protect her from their stepfather when they

were children. She’d failed to protect Cara when a vampyre attacked them in Florence. Now Cara’s
fiancéwasseriouslyinjured,andtheywereatthemercyoftenvampyresoldiersandtheirleader.

ThesoldiershadbeentaskedwithdeliveringthewomentotheiroldfriendFatherKavanaughatthe

Vatican.TheywereapeaceofferinggivenbythenewPrinceofFlorencetohisenemy,theCuria.William
had…

Ravenhaltedherthoughts.

Shedidn’thavetimetodwellonthepast.Shedidn’thavetimetogrievehislossorcursehimfor

whathehadorhadn’tdone.Throughagreatforceofwill,sheignoredthefeelinginthepitofherstomach
andfocusedonthepresent.

Sheneededtoprotecthersister.SheneededtoensuretheyreachedRomealive.

A shout sounded to Raven’s left, and her captor slowed. They climbed what seemed like a steep,

rockyhillandwentabouttwentypacesbeforeheheavedherroughlytotheground.

The soldier took a large step back, staring down at her with undisguised contempt before striding

away.

He’d deposited her in a copse of trees, seemingly protected. She searched the darkness, eagerly

lookingforhersister.Thankfully,Carahadbeenplacedonthegroundnearby,sprawledacrosstheroots
ofatree.Ravencrawledtoherside.

“Ashortrest,”announcedStefan,theleaderofthegroup.“We’lltakecoverforthedayinUmbria.

PrincessSimonettaisanally,andthePrince’scouriersshouldhaveinformedherofourpresence.”

Ravenonlyhalf-listenedassheexaminedhersister.Carawasbreathingsteadily,eyesclosed.

Ravensqueezedherhand.“Cara.”

Shedidn’trespond.

Raventriedagainandagain.Caramadenomovement.

Ravenstruggledtoherfeet,ignoringthesearingpainthatshotfromankletohipinherdisabledleg.

ShestumbledtowardStefan,bitingtheinsideofhercheekagainstthepain.

“Ineedyoutoexaminemysister.”

TheFrenchCanadiangaveherascornfullook.“Idon’ttreathumanbeings.”

“She’sbeenunconsciousforhours.Shemaybeinacoma.”

Stefanfavoredherwithhisbackandbegantospeaktothelargestsoldier,whowascommandingthe

detachmentthatsurroundedthem.

“I’mtalkingtoyou.”RavenliftedhervoiceinItalian,barelykeepingholdofhertemper.

“Idon’tengageinconversationswithfood.Especiallyfoodthatsuffersfromhysteria.”Stefanspoke

overhisshoulderbeforecontinuinghisconversation.

“Hysteria?”Ravenseethed.“Youmisogynisticasshole.”

Aseriesofgrowlsrosefromthesoldiers,andshewatchedastheyapproachedherfromallsides.

StefanglancedpointedlyfromthesoldierstoRaven.“Youweresaying?”

“Thatyou’reanasshole.Youallare.”Shelimpedsideways,placingherselfbetweenthevampyres

andhersister.“WebelongtotheCuria.Shemaybedying,andyou’reneglectingher.Whatdoyouthink
theCuriawilldowhenyoushowupwithacorpse?”

Stefantwitched,hisgazemovingtoCara.

Ravenfollowedthepathofhiseyes.“Maximilianattackedher.Aoibhegavehersomeofherblood

inordertohealher.She’sbeenunconsciouseversince.”

“LadyAoibhe?”Oneofthesoldierslaughed.“Thatwenchwouldn’tspareadropofbloodtosave

herownmother.”

“Shefedher,”Raveninsisted.“Notmuch,butenoughtohealher.”

RavenswitchedherattentiontoStefan.“Youneedtoexaminemysister.Now.”

Stefansniffed.“Youdon’tgiveorders.Yourmasterisdead;you’rechatteltobetradedforpeace.I

havethepriest’sletterinmypocket.”

Hergreeneyesflashed.“WebelongtotheCuria.Ifyoudon’thelpmysister,they’llkillyou.”

“Knock it on the head.” One of the soldiers swung his sword. “Then we won’t have to listen to it

prattle.”

“Touch me and you’re dead.” Raven turned in a circle, staring each of them down. “What do you

thinktheCuriawilldoifwearrivedamaged?They’llkillyou.Allofyou.AndI’lldancearoundyour
corpses.”

“Difficulttodancewithacrippledleg,”asoldiermocked,mimingherdisability.

“Enough.”Someonemovedforward.

Allgrumblingandgrowlingceased.

Hewasaheadandshoulderstallerthantheothers,placinghimatwelloversixfeet.Hischestwas

broad,andhisarmsandlegswerewideandpowerful.

HestoodtoetotoewithRaven,peeringdownatherwithdark,fathomlesseyes.

“Sunriseapproaches.”HisItalianwasspokenwithanEasternEuropeanaccent.“Stefan,seetothe

human.Thenwemustgo.”

“Youaren’tinapositiontoissuecommands,Borek.”Stefancrossedhisarmsoverhischest.“Prince

Machiavelliplacedmeincharge.”

Borek’sgriptightenedonthehiltofhissword,hiseyesneverleavingRaven’s.“I’mincommandof

thisdetachment.MymissionistodeliverthefemalestotheCuria,unharmed.Don’tmakemekillyou.”

“Youwouldn’tdare,”Stefansputtered,uncrossinghisarms.“I’mamemberoftheConsilium.”

Borekturnedhisheadafraction,andhiseyesmetStefan’s.

“Fine,”thephysicianhuffed.HeturnedonhisheelandwalkedtowardCara.

“Thankyou.”Ravenhazardedanappreciativelookatthecommander.

Hebenttowardher,hisexpressionunchanged.“Curiawhore.IfIhadmychoice,youandyoursister

wouldalreadybedead.”

Raventookastepback,surprisedbyhissuddenshowofanger.

Shequicklycollectedherself.“Wewantthesamething,commander.WebothwanttogettoRomeas

soonaspossible.”

“YouknownothingofwhatIwant.”HejerkedhischininCara’sdirection.“Attendtothegirland

getreadytomove.”

RavenreturnedtoCara’ssidejustasStefanconcludedhisexamination.

Hestoodandbrushedoffhishandsindistaste.“She’sunconscious,butthat’slikelyasideeffectof

theblood.Aoibheisapowerfulvampyre.”

“Willshewakeup?”

“Yes.” Stefan didn’t bother looking in Raven’s direction. “Don’t ask me when. I don’t know how

muchbloodsheingestedorwhatherinjurieswere.Somehumanshavethisreactiontovampyreblood—
theirsystemsshutdown,andtheysleepforhours.Shecouldawakenatanytime.”

“Thankyou.”

Stefan’supperlipcurled.

“You’d better hope the Curia actually wants you.” He dropped his voice. “I wonder what would

happentoyouandyoursisteriftheychangetheirmind.”

Raven’shandscurledintofists.

Her curse was drowned out by the clanging of steel as the soldiers drew their swords, faces set

againsttheperimeter.AfewvampyrespositionedthemselvesaroundthetreeunderwhichCaralay.

“What’s happening?” Raven’s gaze moved from soldier to soldier, finding their faces uniformly

tense.

Somethingrustledamongstthetreesandpoundedagainsttheearth.Then,allofasudden,ananimal

leaptintotheclearing,knockingoneofthesoldierstotheground.

Theanimalroared.

“Ferals!”asoldiercried,liftinghissword.“Toarms!”

Outofthecornerofhereye,Ravensawsomethingmove.Beforeshecouldscream,agreathulking

beastemergedfromthetreebehindhersister.

ChapterThree

August2013

Cambridge,Massachusetts

“H

OW

D

ID

H

E

K

NOW

?”Juliawhisperedtoalightlessroom,herhandlowonherabdomen.Shelayinbed

withherhusband,longpastthehouratwhichthey’dretired.

Stillsleeping,Gabrielgruntedandrolledtowardher.

She examined him in the shadows—the curl that clung to his forehead, his beautiful features and

stubbledface,hisnakedchestandshoulders.

“Howdidheknow?”sherepeated,pressingherhandtohisface.

Gabrieldrewadeepbreathandleanedintohertouch.Amomentlater,hiseyesopened.

Heblinked.“Huh?”

“ThemanfromtheUffizi.TheonewhocametoyouinUmbriaandtoldyouIwassick.Howdidhe

know?”

NowGabrielwasawake.

Amusclejumpedinhisjaw.“Idon’tknow.”

“Dr.Rubiosaysitwasagoodthingwedemandedanultrasound.Oneofthefibroidshasgrownso

large.”Juliashuddered.

Gabrielliftedherhandfromhisfaceandkissedit,lacingtheirfingerstogether.“You’regoingtobe

fine.”

“Dr. Rubio wants more tests, but the fibroids explain so many things—the pain, the low iron, the

bleeding.”

Gabrielwinced.“Ishouldhavepaidcloserattention.”

Juliapressedtheirconjoinedhandstoherheart.“Ithoughtthesymptomswouldgoaway.”

“Youneedtotakebettercareofyourself.”Hisdarkbrowsknittedtogether.“Youhaveahusbandand

adaughterwholoveyou.Whoneedyou.”

Hebrushedhislipsoverhers.

She sighed appreciatively. “I promise I’ll do better. But I don’t understand how a stranger could

knowsomethingsopersonal.”

Gabrielpulledback.Hisblueeyesstudiedhers.“Idon’tknowwhoorwhatheis.I’mgladyouand

Clarearefarawayfromhim.”

“I’m grateful he warned us. My symptoms were worsening. I can only imagine what would have

happenedifthingshadcontinued.”Juliashudderedonceagain.

Gabriel’s hand slid to her abdomen. “It’s all right now. Let’s not worry about what might have

happened.”

Heleanedoverandkissedher,histonguetastingthecurveofherlip.

Juliaresponded,loopingherarmsaroundhisneckanddrawinghisbodyatophers.

Thebabymonitoronthenightstandcrackled,andalowcrywasheard.

Gabrielfroze,asifhewereananimaltryingtoavoidapredator.

“I’llgo.”Juliashiftedfrombeneathhim.

Gabrielgrabbedherwrist.“Wait.Let’sseeifshegoesbacktosleep.”

Julialaughed.“Youalwayssaythat,butsheneverdoes.”

Hehuffedgrumpily,runninghisfingersthroughhisthick,darkhair.

“I’llgo.”Hekissedherforehead.“Mummyneedshersleep.”

Juliasmiledandsankunderthecovers,watchingasherhusbandpulledonapairofboxershortsand

paddedtowardthenursery.

Shetoyedwiththecrosssheworearoundherneck,wonderingwhythemanwhohadthreatenedher

husbandhadgiftedthemwithimportantinformationaboutherhealth.

Shehadnoanswertothisquestion.

ChapterFour

R

AVEN

M

OVED

I

NSTINCTIVELY

,coveringhersisterwithherbody.Animalisticsnarlsandhoarsevampyre

criesfilledherears,alongwiththethunderingoffootstepsfromalldirections.

She heard a growl by her elbow and an Italian oath, accompanied by the whistle of something

metallicslicingthroughair.Aheavyobjectthuddedtothegroundsomedistanceaway.

Ahairypawgrabbedtheankleofherinjuredlegandpulled,almostyankingherhipoutofitssocket.

Shereleasedhersisterandkicked,twistingviolently.

“Letgo!”shecried.“Help.Help!”

Thegriponherfoottightened,andshefeltthebonesinheranklegroaninprotest.Sherolledtoher

stomachandclawedattheground,tryingtocatchholdofsomething.Thestenchofbloodandunwashed
fleshfilledhernostrils.

Sheretched.

Somethingflippedhertoherback.Shelookedupintodark,insect-likeeyes.

Ravenscreamed,liftingheruninjuredfootandkicking.Theferalhowledasshemadecontactwith

itsface.

Itgrabbedbothofheranklesandsqueezed.

Sheyelpedinpainandbegantoflail,fearfulthecreaturewouldcrushherankles.

Then,allofasudden,theferalreleasedher.

Ravenscrambledtowardhersister.Shehuddledoverher,examiningherforinjuries.

Borekstoodafewfeetaway,hisbroadsworddrippingblackbloodontothebodyofaheadlessferal.

Theireyesmet.

“Stayhere.”Hekickedthecorpseasideandstrodeintothefray.

It was difficult to see, but Raven discerned a feral grappling with soldiers at the center of the

clearing.Stefanstoodofftooneside,awkwardlyclutchingasword.

Theferalmovedlikeananimal,hunchedonallfoursandrearinguponlytostrike.Itappearedtobe

male and was of average size, but stronger than its vampyre counterparts. Raven counted one injured
vampyre,whowaskneelingontheground,clutchinghisshoulder.

She blocked out the feral’s screams, interspersed as they were with incoherent mumblings and

profanity. Her attention focused on her sister, hoping Cara wouldn’t choose that moment to regain
consciousness.

Acryoftriumphrangout,andRavensawBorekstandingwithhisswordheldhigh,aferal’shead

danglingfromhisotherhand.

“Weneedtomove.Now.”Borektossedtheheadtooneofthesoldiers.“Retrievetheheads.Carry

themamileanddropthem.”

“Whataboutthecorpses?”Stefansteppedforward,sheathinghissword.

“Leavethem.”

“Buttheycouldreanimate.”

Intwosteps,Borekwastoweringoverthephysician,hisswordstilldrippingferalblood.

Stefancowered,blinkingupatthecommander.

BorekpointedhisswordatStefan’schest.“Doyouwishtoannounceourpresencetoeveryoneinthe

region?”

TheFrenchCanadianshookhishead.

“Leavethecorpses.”Borekturnedinacircle,gesturingtothegroup.“Move.”

Whilethepartylinedupandpreparedtorun,hecrossedtotheinjuredsoldier.Ignoringhispleas,

Borekliftedhisweaponandbeheadedhimwithonesurestroke.

Ravenstaggeredtoherfeet,leaningagainstthetrunkofthetreeasshetriedtogainherbalance.

Without emotion, Borek retrieved the head and sword of his fallen comrade. He directed two

soldierstocarryRavenandhersister.Thevampyressnappedtoattentionandwalkedtowardthewomen.

Ravenlockedeyeswithoneofthemasheapproached.“Whydidhekillhisownsoldier?”

Thevampyreshrugged.“Guillaumewasbittenbyaferal.Hewouldhavebecomeoneofthem.”

Ravenswallowed,tryingtoquellhernausea.

Vampyres appeared to be human. Even she, who’d become the lover of one of the most powerful

vampyresinItaly,forgothowdifferenttheywerefromhumanbeings.Theircold-bloodedactionsandlack
ofempathywereallthemoredisturbingpreciselybecausetheylookedhuman.

Ravenresolvedtokeepthedifferencebetweenthetwospeciesfirmlyinmind.

She couldn’t help but remember her previous encounter with a feral, near her apartment in Santo

Spirito.She’dthoughtshewoulddieuntil,inexplicably,theferalhadstoppedsomefeetaway,cursingher
forhavingarelic.

She wished she had one of William’s relics now. Borek had seen to it that Cara had medical

attention,buthehadn’tdonesooutofcompassion.He’ddonesobecausehefearedtheCuria.

Ravenneededtobolsterherdefenses.

“CommanderBorek.”Sheliftedhervoice,evadingthesoldierwhowassupposedtocarryher.

Thecommandingofficerignoredher.

“CommanderBorek,”sherepeated,louder.

Heturnedhisheadinherdirection,asdidtheremainingmembersoftheirparty,withtheexception

ofCara.

“Weneedtoleave,”hegrowled.“Oryou’llendupdead.”

“Ineedasword.”Sheextendedherhand.

Hestaredatherincredulously.“No.”

She took a few limping steps in his direction. “I’m not afraid to fight. What if we encounter more

ferals?”

Borekglared.

HewalkedtowardherandheldoutGuillaume’ssword.

Assoonasshetooktheweightoftheweaponintoherhand,itslippedfromherfingers,topplingto

thegrass.

Laughterrippledacrossthevampyres.

Stubbornly,shetriedtoretrievetheswordfromtheground.Itwassoheavyshecouldbarelyliftit

withbothhands.

Boreksnatchedtheswordawayfromher,thrustingitintohisbelt.“Muchasitpainsyou,you’llhave

torelyonusforprotection.”

Hebarkedanordertothesoldierassignedtoher,andthevampyrebowedbeforetakingoffatarun.

Inhisstead,Borekliftedheroverhisshoulder.Theydescendedthehillatahighrateofspeed.

Ravenwassurprisedthecommanderwoulddeigntocarryher.

Afterthey’dgonesomedistance,Borekslowed.Hepassedhishanddownheruninjuredlegandslid

itunderthehemofherjeans.

Shejerkedawayfromhistouch.“Whatareyoudoing?”

“Keepyourvoicedown.”

Shefeltsomethingcoolslideintohersock.Borekpulledthelegofherjeansdowntocoverit.

“Adagger.”Hisvoicewaslow.“Concealitfromtheothers.”

Ravenplacedherhandatthesmallofhisback,indicatingthatshe’dheard.

“Aimforthethroat,”herumbled.“Adaggerwillbeoflittleuseagainstaferaloroneofus.Butit

willbuyyoutime.”

“Whyareyouhelpingme?”

Borekfellsilent.

Ravenhadgivenupallhopeofreceivingananswerwhenhisvoicecameoutofthedarkness.

“Fornow,atleast,yourfateistiedtomine.”

ChapterFive

B

Y

T

HE

T

IME

thefirstraysofsunlightscatteredacrosstheUmbrianlandscape,Ravenwassittingonthe

floorofaramshacklewoodenbuilding.

Borekwasseatedbeneathacoveredwindow,staring.

He hadn’t carried her long. In fact, he’d passed her off to another soldier shortly after hiding the

daggerinhersock.

Raven had examined the weapon after they’d stopped, using the excuse that she had to go to the

bathroom in order to gain some privacy. The dagger appeared to date from the Renaissance and would
easilytakeprideofplaceinamuseum.Itwasalsoextremelysharp.Evennow,shehadtobecarefulto
extendherleginacertainwaysotheknife’sedgedidn’tbreachherskin.

Ravenignoredthecommander’sperusal,turningtosurveytheirshelter.

Someofthesoldiershadclimbedthericketystairstotheupperfloor,leavingBorekandtwoofhis

men to guard Raven and Cara. She and Borek were the only ones with open eyes. The other vampyres
restedatthefarendoftheroom,eyesclosed,givingtheappearanceofsleep.

Raven knew better. Vampyres never slept. But as William had confided in her, their minds needed

timetoprocessthetumultoftheday.

Sheobservedhersister,whosechestroseandfellwithsteadybreath.Herexpressionwaspeaceful.

Ravenleanedoverher.

“I didn’t mean for you to get hurt. Again.” She cupped her younger sister’s pretty face. “I’m so

sorry.”

“Sleep,”Borekordered.“Nowisnotthetimeforregret.”

“I slept on the way here.” Raven adjusted her injured leg into a more comfortable position. “Why

aren’tyourestingwiththeothers?”

“Someone has to keep watch.” Carefully, he lifted the window shade a crack, peering out into the

daylight.

Hedroppedtheshade.

Borekwassolidlybuilt,withdarkhairthatfelltohisbroadshoulders.Inappearance,heseemedto

beinhistwenties,butgivenhisstrength,Raveninferredhe’dbeenavampyreforsometime.

“Dan.”ThewhispercamefromCara,wholayonthefloornexttoRaven.

“Cara?”

Shewhimpered,shiftingherlegs,andfellsilentagain.

Ravenwaitedtoseeifshewouldstir,butCara’sbreathingremaineddeepandregular.Shewasstill

asleeporunconscious.

Ravenwipedathereyes.

“Youshouldjoinher.”Borek’stonewaspointed.

“I’llsleepinRome.”

“Rome.”Hisfacegrewthunderous.“Ifwemakeittherealive.”

“Oneofthesoldierssaidwe’darrivetomorrow.Icanlastanotherday.Howlonghaveyoulivedin

Florence?”

“Longenough.”

Ravenlookedathimcuriously.“Whereareyoufrom?”

Hisexpressiontightened,andhelookedoutthewindowagain.

Raventurnedbacktohersister,placingahandonherheadandstrokingthefine,blondhair.

“Russia,”heansweredatlast.

“Youdon’tsoundRussian.”

“Iam,”herumbled.

Ravenfrowned.“Whydidyouleave?”

“Toomanywars.AndtheCuria,alwaysbringingdeath.”Hegaveheraseverelook.

Shechewedattheedgeofherlip.

“I’msorry,”shesaidgently.

Boreksnorted.“Yourliesmeannothing.”

Raven lifted her chin. “It isn’t a lie. I told Machiavelli the truth when we were in Florence: I’m

againstkilling,eventhekillingofvampyres.”

Hishandmovedtohissword.“Yetyouthreatenuswithdeath.”

“I’lldoanythingtoprotectmysister.”

“Youshouldsaveyourself.”

“Tosavemysisteristosavemyself.”ShetouchedthetopofCara’shead.

Borekclosedhiseyes.

Foramoment,Raventhoughthewasresting.

Heopenedhiseyes,hislipscurlingderisively.“HowdidaCuriaspyendupapettothePrinceof

Florence?”

“PerhapsbecauseI’mcharming.”Ravenglared.“Andwhatweweredoesn’tmatter.He’sdead.”

“Thepriceoftreason.”Hegazedincontemptatherinjuredleg.“Youmusthavegoldrunningthrough

yourveins.WhyelsewouldthePrinceriskhisthrone?”

“Maybehelovedme.”Raven’stemperflared.“Noteveryonechoosesaloverbasedonappearance.

NowonderthePrinceruledyouandyoursoldiersforsolong.You’reabunchofempty-headedthugs.”

“Silence.” Borek’s raised voice drew the attention of the other vampyres. They sat up from their

restingplaces,theirhandsreachingfortheirswords.

Borekgesturedtothemtoreturntotheirpositions.

“The whore has teeth,” he taunted her. “But teeth won’t save you if the Curia decides you’re no

longeruseful.ThenI’llbetheonespittingonyourcorpse.”

Ravenrestrainedtheurgetocursehimandturnedherback,curlingupnexttoCaraonthefloor.She

wassoangry,herbodynearlyvibrated.

Thereweremanywhocouldbeblamedforherpredicament,includingherself.Butinthatmoment,

lyingnexttohersisteronthecold,hardfloorofanabandonedbuilding,sheblamedWilliam.Heshould
havefledthecitywhenhehadthechanceandtakenherwithhim.

Now he was dead. She and her sister stood on the very precipice of death, with only an angry,

vindictiveRussiantoprotectthem.

Ravenranthroughtheforest,searchingforWilliam.Shecalledhisnameoverandover.Noanswercame.

Inherheart,sheknewhewasdead,butshewouldnotgiveup.

“Toarms!”Borekraisedthealarm,interruptingRaven’sdreams.

She moved slowly, shaking off sleep as the vampyres shouted at one another, descending the

staircasefromtheupperfloor.

Something smashed through the window, landing on the wooden floor and igniting into flame. A

cloudofblacksmokeliftedtotheceilingbeforespreadingthroughtheroom.

Theywereunderattack.

Dim light shone from outside as the last rays of sun faded from sight. Two more fire bombs flew

through the windows, engulfing the far end of the space in flames. They licked across the floor and
climbedthewall.

“Grabyourrobes,”Borekshouted.“Dousetheflames!”

Thesoldiersfollowedorders,pickingupfabricandthrowingitoverthefire.

SmokebillowedinRaven’sdirection,andshebegantocough.ShetriedtoshakeCaraawake,but

hersistermerelymurmuredafewwordsandcontinuedsleeping.

“There’sonlyoneexit.”Stefanstoodinthecenteroftheroom,gesturingtothefrontdoor.“We’re

trapped.”

“Thengettowork.”AsoldierthrewarobetowardStefan.

Borekmovedbeneathoneofthewindows,takingcaretokeepoutofsight.Hepeeredoutside.

Somewherenearby,adoggrowled.

“Hunters.”Hesworeanoathandmovedawayfromthewindow.“Atleastten.Maybemore.”

Ravenhuddlednexttohersister,fightingtostaycalm.Sherememberedthehunterswho’dcornered

herinFlorence.They’dfelledAoibhewithanarrowandtriedtokillWilliam.Eventhoughshewasofno
usetotheirbloodtrade,they’dthreatenedherwithdeath.

OneofthesoldiersapproachedBorek.“Givethemthehumans.”

Borekboxedthesoldier’searwithameatyfist.“Thehunterswillkillthem,andthentheCuriawill

killus.Itwouldbebettertothrowyououtside,Carlos.”

“Pardon,commander,”thesoldierapologized,castingabalefullookatRaven.

Ravencontinuedtocoughassmokefilledtheroom.

Stefangesturedtothewomen.“Thehumansarealiability.Leavethem.”

Borekroundedonhim.“Andletthemburntodeath?Willyoubetheonetoannounceourfailureto

thenewPrince?OrtheCuria?”

Stefanscowled,pointedlyturninghisback.

Raven’scoughinggrewlouderasshestruggledforair.

“Wemustgetthehumansoutnow.”BorekpointedatCarlos.“Takeyourswordandholdthemoffas

longasyoucan.Yourvestwillblockthearrows.”

“Excusemywords.Iwastoohasty.”Carlosbeganbackingaway.

Borekbrandishedhissword.“Stepoutsidethedoor,orI’lltossyouthroughit.”

Theothersoldiersbegantocloseranks,movingbehindCarloswithswordsattheready.

Carlossurveyedhisbrethren.Then,withatightnod,hewalkedtowardthedoor.

Borekgesturedtotwooftheremainingvampyres.“Carrythehumans.Keepclearoftheskirmishes

andheadsouth.Thoseofuswhosurvivewillfollowyou.

“Therestofyou,preparetobreakthroughthebackwall.Carloswilldistractthem.”

“We’reprobablysurrounded.”Stefangrumbled.

“Thensuccumbtotheflames.”Borekglared.

“Be vigilant, all of you. They’re armed with poisoned arrows and relics. Be sure you’re wearing

yourvests.”BoreknoddedatCarlos,whocursedhimbeforeopeningthedoorandsteppingoutside.

Agroupofsoldiersbegankickingandhackingthroughthebackwallasthevoicesofthehuntersrose

fromthefrontofthebuilding.

As soon as the opening was large enough, the soldiers surged through, leaving Borek and the two

vampyrescarryingthewomenbehind.Thentheyalsoleaptintothetwilight.

ChapterSix

T

HE

H

UNTERS

W

ERE

M

ERCENARIES

,notfools.

They’dtrackedthevampyrestotheabandonedhouse,lyinginwaituntiljustbeforesunset.Itwould

be folly to force their prey into the light—the sun’s rays would burn them to a crisp, destroying their
valuableblood.Attackdogsprowledtheperimeter,butthehuntersrestrainedthem,notwantingtoalert
thevampyrestotheirpresence.

Assoonasthefirstfigureemergedthroughthefrontdoor,thehuntersclosedin.

Anarcheraimedatthevampyre’schest.Hewaiteduntilhehadtheperfectshot,notwantingtowaste

oneofhispreciouspoison-tippedarrows.

Butthisvampyrewasatrainedsoldier.Herantofacehisenemies,avoidingthesprayofholywater.

Hadeachhunternotcarriedonhispersonarelic,thesoldierwouldhavefelledsomeofthem.Instead,he
couldonlyswinghisswordandcurseinfrustration,edgingtowardthetreesinhopeofescape.

Anarrowflew.ItstruckhiminthechestbutbouncedoffhisKevlarvest,fallingtotheground.

Thehuntersmurmuredinshock.

Oneofthemranforward,holdingoutacross.Thevampyreretreatedtowardthebuilding.

ARottweilerboundedforward,snappingatthevampyre’slegsandsinkingitsteethintohiscalf.The

vampyrecursed,slashingatthedogwithhissword.

Theanimaldidn’tletgo.

Agarroteflewthroughtheair,catchingthevampyrearoundtheneck.

Hedroppedhisswordandtriedtopullthewireawayfromhisflesh.

Itwasnouse.Thegarrotetightenedwithaloudclickingsounduntilitseparatedhisheadfromhis

body.

Some of the hunters remained with the corpse to drain the blood, not wanting it to lose any of its

magicalproperties.Theothersrejoinedtheirgangbehindthehouse,wheretheyconfrontedtheremaining
vampyres.

Thrownoverthebackofasoldier,Ravenhadtorelyonherearsratherthanhereyesastheyburstthrough
aholeinthebackwallofthebuilding.

Arrows whizzed through the air, dogs growled and barked, and the panicked voices of hunted

vampyresswirledaroundher.

The soldier who carried her wove from side to side, avoiding those in his path, until a German

shepherdbegantochasehim,snappingathisheels.

DespitecarryingRaven,thevampyremaintainedhisdistance,buttheanimalwouldnotgiveup.It

begantojump,tryingtocatchRavenwithitsteeth.

Sheclutchedherarmstoherchesttoavoidthesnappingjaws.

Then she flew through the air and slammed to the ground. She lay on the damp earth, stunned, her

righthandcaughtbeneathherbody.Painlancedthroughher.

A few feet away, the soldier who’d been carrying her lay sprawled. He kicked at the snapping

Germanshepherd,makingcontactwithitsmuzzle.

Theanimalyelpedandretreated,allowingthesoldiertimetoescape.UnencumberedbyRaven,he

fledintothetrees.

“Lookslikesomeoneabandonedhisdinner.”Amalevoicelaughed.

Withagreatforceofwill,Ravenbegantocrawltowardthetrees.

Quickfootstepsapproachedher.Thehuntergrabbedherbythehair,forcingherheadback.

Shelookedupintodark,crueleyes.

“Howmanyarethere?”hedemanded.

“Gotohell!”

The hunter backhanded her, splitting her lower lip with the force of his blow. “How many are

there?”

Ravenmadeashowofwipingthebloodfromhermouth,whilesurreptitiouslyslidingherotherhand

downtoherankle.

“Therearetwentyvampyres.Teninsidethehouseandtenashortdistancefromhere.”

Themanwrenchedherhair,loweringhisfacesohecouldseehereyes.“Therearemore?”

She nodded, moving her hand beneath the hem of her jeans. “Ten more avoiding the daylight in a

buildingtothenorth.”

Hehitheragain.“You’relying.”

Sheletoutananguishedcryandtriedtopullawayfromhim.“I’mnot;Iswearit.Weweresupposed

tomeettheothersaftersunset.”

“Youwillleadustothem.”ThemangrabbedRaven’sinjuredarmandpulled.

Before he could drag her to her feet, her fingers closed over the hilt of the dagger. In one swift

motion,shewithdrewitandplungeditintothetopofhisfoot.

Thehuntercursedandreleasedher,hishandsclosingonthedagger.

Raven stumbled to her feet, cradling her injured arm and heading toward the trees as fast as she

couldmanage.

Over her shoulder, she could see that several of the vampyres had been felled, and hunters were

alreadygatheredaroundtheircorpses.Shecouldn’tseeCaraorthevampyrewhohadbeencarryingher.
Ravenhopedthey’descaped.

Justassheapproachedthetreeline,thehuntercaughtherfrombehind,wrappinghisforearmaround

herneck.“You’llpayforthat,feeder.”

Ravenscratchedathisarm,gaspingforbreath.

He tightened his grip, and Raven felt her throat close. She continued to struggle, tearing his flesh

withherfingernailsandpullingathisarm.

“Releaseher.”Avoicedriftedoutofthetrees.

Ravenpoundedthehunter’sarmwithherfists,strainingforbreath.

“Isaid,releaseher.”Outofthedarknessafigureemerged,dressedentirelyinblack.

Thefirefromtheburningbuildingbehindthemilluminatedthefigure’sface.

Ravenlookedstraightintoapairofangrygrayeyes.

ChapterSeven

“Y

OU

W

ISHED

T

O

S

EE

M

E

?”FatherJackKavanaughstoodinfrontofthelargedesk,claspinghishands

together.

The Director of Intelligence for the Curia was dressed in the robes of a cardinal, befitting his

position.HepeeredupattheJesuit,hisdarkeyesassessing.“TellmeaboutyourtriptoFlorence.”

“ImetRaven,theyoungwomanIwrotetoyouabout.Twonightsago,hersistercametomewithher

fiancé.Igavethemsanctuary,andwewrotetoRaven,askinghertojoinus.Sherefused.

“Thismorning,oneofourofficerssharedareportfromFlorence’spolicedepartment,indicatingthat

thefiancéhadbeenmurdered,andCaraandRavenaremissing.Itsoundsasifthefiancéwaskilledbya
vampyre.”

TheDirectorremainedsilent.

Slightlyunnerved,Jackcontinued.“ThePrinceofFlorencehasbeendeposedbyMachiavelli,who

issendingRavenandCaratousasapeaceoffering.”

TheDirectorblinked.“Inyourletter,yourequestedasquadofCuriasoldierssoyoucouldretrieve

thewomen.”

“Yes.I’mconcernedfortheirsafety.”

TheDirectorglanceddownattheopenfileontopofhisdesk.“ThisRavenwomanwasthePrince’s

pet.”

Jackgrimaced.“IwasunawareofthatuntilIsawherinFlorence.”

TheDirector’seyesnarrowed.“DidyouwritetothePrince,askinghimtoreleaseher?”

“Yes.I’veknownhersinceshewasachild.I’vealwaysprotectedher.”

TheDirector rested hishand on topof the open file.“So you don’tdeny ignoring proper channels

andcompromisingtheCuria’smission?”

“Sincewhenisanattempttosaveahumansoulacompromise?”Jackgrewveryredintheface.

TheDirectorstudiedhim.

“You Jesuits have a habit of asking for forgiveness rather than permission. We aren’t all Jesuits,

FatherKavanaugh,andthatkindofthinkingisn’ttoleratedhere.”TheDirectorpaused.“Youwerebrought
toRomebecauseofyourservicerecord.IwillpersonallytransferyoutoPragueifyoucompromiseour
activitiesagain.”

“Prague?”Jack’seyebrowslifted.“Buttherearen’tany—”

“Precisely.”

Jackbowedhisheadtohidehisanger.“Understood.”

“It’sfortunateFlorencedecidedtoaccedetoyourweaknessratherthantoexploitit.”

Jackliftedhishead.“Idon’tconsidercaringformyparishionerstobeaweakness.”

TheDirectortappedoneofhisfingersontopofthedesk.“Weexistinordertoprotecthumanityfrom

evil.Iwishwecouldsaveeveryone.Webothknowthat’simpossible.”

“I’mnotaskingtosaveeveryone.”Jackforcedhimselftokeephistoneeven.“I’msimplyaskingfor

supportinprotectingtwoyoungwomen,womenwhoarelikedaughterstome.”

“We have intelligence that they are being sent as a gesture of peace, but we have no idea what

conditionthey’reinorhowmanysoldiersaccompanythem.Itwouldbefollytosendasquadoutsideour
wallsuntilweknowmore.”

Jackleanedforward,placinghishandsontopofthedesk.“RavenandCaraareindanger,notjust

fromtheFlorentines,butfromferals,mercenaries,othervampyres.Theycouldbekilled.”

“You’ve already tipped your hand by writing to the Prince and expressing your attachment. Any

movementofourtroopswillsimplyplaceahigherpriceonthewomen’sheads.”

“Thenletmego.Alone.”

TheDirectorgavethepriestalonglook.“Iadmireyourcourage.ButI’mnotgoingtoallowyouto

initiateamilitaryengagementovertwosouls,oneofwhomisapet.”

Jackstraightened.“OurLordleftHeaventoseekandtosavethosewhoarelost.”

“Iamwell-acquaintedwithsacredscripture.”

Jack leaned closer. “Then you must know the story of the Gadarene, who was a pet to various

demons.OurLordclothedhim,fedhim,andrescuedhimfromhistormentors.”

“Ifthewomenarriveatourborders,wewillwelcomethem.ButIwon’tallowyoutowalkintothe

armsofourenemiesandbeheldforransom.NorwillIsendtroopsoutsideVaticanCity,unlessit’stolay
siegetoastrongholdwecanovertake.Wecannottipourhand.”

JackgavetheDirectoralonglook.“ArethereplanstoinvadeFlorence?”

TheDirectorshuffledafewpapersonhisdesk.“Sinceyourprotégéwasapet,shewillhavetobe

exorcisedonarrival.”

Jacktouchedthecrosshealwayskeptinhispocket.“Iwillseetoitpersonally.”

“I have already directed some of our agents to secure the body of the fiancé. We can’t allow an

autopsytogoforward,ifhewaskilledbyavampyre.”TheDirectormadethesignofthecross.“Youare
dismissed.”

Jackbowedandwithdrewtothedoor.

“FatherKavanaugh.”TheDirector’svoiceinterruptedhismovements.

Heturned.“Yes?”

“ThemostrecentintelligenceoutofFlorenceindicatesthatMachiavellihasbeenexecuted.”

“Executed?Bywhom?”

“ThePrince.Itseemshesurvivedthecoup,executedhisenemies,andisnowinfullcontrolofthe

city,includingthearmy.”

“Raven,”Jackwhispered,hishandseekingtherelichecarriedinhispocket.

“The battleground on which we wage our war against evil is constantly changing.” The Director

turned his attention to the files on his desk. “Remember this when you are tempted to act without
consultingyoursuperiors.”

Shaken,FatherKavanaughbowedandlefttheoffice.

ChapterEight

T

HE

H

UNTER

R

ELEASED

R

AVEN

and pushed her to the ground. He withdrew something from his pocket,

holdingitinfrontofhim.

Helaughed.

“Ohyes,laugh.”ThePrince’sgrayeyesnarrowed.“Trustinatrinketyouaren’tworthytowield.”

Heapproachedthehunter,whoextendedtherelicinfrontofhisbodyasfarashecould.

AsWilliamneared,thehunter’sexpressionfaltered.Heliftedtherelichigher,asifthatcouldstop

theangryPrince.

William’s eyes grew strangely alight. He reached past the relic to fasten onto the hunter’s wrist,

pushingtheman’shandbacksoquickandsohardthathiswristsnapped.

Thehunterscreamedanddroppedtherelic.

“Youtouchedwhatismine.”Williamgraspedthemuchtallerhunterbythebackofhisneck.“You

madeherbleed.Nowyouwillpayforeverymarkonherperfectskin.”

Withasickeningsound,hewrenchedthehunter’sneck,breakingit.Heshovedthebodyasideand

wipedhishandsonhisblackpants.

“Wholaughsnow?”heasked,kickingthecorpse.

He turned, the firelight illuminating his handsome profile. His expression softened when he saw

Ravensprawledonthegrass.“Cassita.”

Ashudderingsobescapedherchest.Shecoveredhermouthwithherhand.

Williamliftedherintohisarms.“I’msorryhehurtyou.”

“Ithoughtyouweredead.”Ravenburrowedherfaceintohisneck,hugginghimwithallhermight.

Hepressedhislipstohertemple.“Onceyouandyoursisterweresafelyoutsidethecity,Iwasable

toregaincontrolofthearmy.Machiavelliisdead,andIamprinceonceagain.”

Henuzzledherfacewithhisnose.“You’rebleeding.”

Ravenwipedhermouthwiththebackofherhand,leavingatrailofbloodacrossherskin.“Never

mindaboutthat.IthoughtI’dlostyou.”

“Little lark.” He kissed her forehead. “I was only delayed. And for that, I’m sorry. Are you all

right?”

“Yes.”Ravendugherfingersintohisshoulders.“ButI’msoangrywithyouforsendingmeaway.

Howcouldyoudothat?”

“Icouldn’tprotectyouandyoursisterandfightforthecityatthesametime,”Williamsaidquietly.

“Idon’tcareaboutthecity!”Sheslammedherhanddownontopofhisshoulder.“Icareaboutyou.

Youpromised!”

“Raven.”Histonewasawarning.

Shestruckhimagaininfrustration.Thistimehegrowled.

“Youpromised,William.Youpromisedwewouldstaytogeth—”Raven’swordswerecutoffbyhis

mouth.

Hecoveredher,consumedher,swallowingheranger.

Shewrappedherfingersinhishair,pressingherselfagainsthim.

He invaded her mouth, all sweetness and softness, a contrast to his branding kiss. He stroked his

velvettongueagainsthers,touchingandtasting.

“MayI?”Hepulledback,hisgrayeyesdartinghungrilytowardherhand.

Raven was confused. But when William’s tongue dipped to the injured portion of her lip, she

understood.

Sheliftedthebackofherhandandpressedittohismouth.

Hiseyeslockedonhersashegaveheralong,sensuallick.Thenhewaskissingheragain,histongue

tracingthewoundonherlip.

“Thesheddingofyourbloodismyfault,”hewhispered.“Forgiveme.”

“I’dshedmorethanthistokeepyouwithme.”

William’seyesblazed,andhekissedheragain,allrestraintgivingway.

Ravenresponded,movinghertongueinconcertwithhis.

Suddenly,shewasontheground,andhestoodoverher,swordinhand.

Anarrowwhizzedtowardhim,andhecaughtitinmid-air,flippingitaroundandthrowingitlikea

javelin.

Thearrowstruckthearcherintheabdomen.Hefelldowndead.

“Anoldone!Quick!”theleaderofthehuntersshoutedinEnglish.

The others closed ranks, abandoning their skirmishes to focus on the new prize. The surviving

vampyres,withtheexceptionofBorek,fledintothetrees.

ThecommandergavethehuntersawideberthbeforeapproachingRavenfromtheside.

ThePrinceglancedatBorekandsnarled.“TouchherandIshallkillyou.”

Thecommanderbowed.“IsworetothenewprincetoprotectheranddeliverhertoRome.”

ThePrince’sgazereturnedtothehunters.“Thereisonlyoneprince.Shestayswithme.”

Borekstoodstill,sworddrawn.

“Laydownyourweapons,andI’llspareyou.”ThePrinceaddressedthehunters,hisvoiceechoing

acrosstheclearing.

The leader of the hunters laughed. “You may be an old one. But we are twenty. And we are all

armed.”

“Areyoucertainofyournumbers?”Williamremainedfocusedontheleader.“Icountless.Perhaps

yourmathematicalabilitiesareaslackingasyourjudgment.”

“Thereisonlywaythiswillend—withyourheadonastickandyourbloodinabag.”Thehunter

heldoutarelic,smiling.

Borekflinchedandbegantoshake.Hetooktwostepsback.

“This is your final warning.” William lifted his sword, and the blade shone in the firelight, as the

buildingbehindthehunterscontinuedtoblaze.

“Shoothim.”Thehunterliftedhishand,andthearcherstookaim.

Beforeasinglearrowcouldbereleased,Williamclosedthedistancebetweenhimandhisattackers

andbeheadedtheleader.Hisbodywasablackblurasheracedfromhuntertohunter,plunginghissword
intheirabdomens,withdrawing,andmovingtothenextvictim.

Holy water and salt fell like rain over him, but he barely reacted, too busy knocking relics and

garrotesoutofthehunter’shandsbeforeendingthem.

Inlessthanfiveminutes,thehuntersweredestroyed,theirbodiesscattered.

Itwasamassacre.

Boreksworeanoath.“Impossible.”

Ravenlookedupatthecommander.Forthefirsttime,shesawfearetchedonhisface.

William wiped his sword on the coat of one of the fallen men and tossed the garment aside. He

strodetowardBorekwithpurpose.

Thecommanderretreated.

The Prince stopped once Raven was behind him, but he didn’t lower his sword. “Machiavelli is

dead.Florenceismineonceagain,asisthewoman.”

Thesoldierdroppedtooneknee,placinghisswordinfrontofhim.“CommanderBorek,mylord,at

yourservice.”

“CommanderBorek,”thePrincerepeated.“Yoursoldiershavedesertedyou,whileyouriskeddeath

tostaywithyourcharge.”

ThePrinceextendedhishandtoRaven,liftinghertoherfeet.“Hasthisonetouchedyou?”

“No.”

“Howhashetreatedyou?”

“HeforcedStefantoexamineCarawhenherefused.Hegavemeadaggerforprotectionandtoldme

toconcealitfromtheothers.Iuseditonthehunter.Itboughtmetime.”

“ShallIkillhim?”

Borek’sdarkeyessoughtRaven’s.

Sheshookherhead.“No.Theotherswouldhavethrownustothehunters,butheprotectedus.”She

scannedtheclearing,herheartracing.“Where’sCara?”

“She can’t have gone far. I scented her on my approach.” The Prince returned his attention to the

commander.“Whereistheotherhuman?”

“Withoneofmydetachment.Hewastoldtofleesouth.Weshouldbeabletoovertakethem.”

WilliamgazedatBorekappraisingly.“Yourbraveryandattentiontomypethasearnedyouyourlife.

Ifyouservemewell,you’llearntherighttoreturntoFlorence.Ifyoudon’t,I’llkillyou.”

Borekbowed.“Yes,mylord.”

“Youmaystand.”

Borekstood,stillgazinguneasilyatthePrince.

“WhereisStefanofMontréal?”

“Idon’tknow,mylord.”Borek’ssharpeyestookstockofthebodiesscatterednearby.“Idon’tsee

hiscorpse.”

“How unfortunate for him. The hunters would have been merciful.” William lifted Raven into his

arms.“Youhaveseensomeofmypower,Borek;aglimpseIamsureyouwillkeeptoyourself.”

Thecommandershiftedhisweightuneasily.“Yes,mylord.”

“You’refromPrague,asIrecall.Iamsureyouwouldn’twanttheCuriaawareofyourtrueheritage.”

Borek’seyesmetRaven’s.Helookeduneasy.

“Servemewell,andyoursecretwillalsoremainsecret.”Williamturnedandranintothewoods,

carryingthewomanheloved.

ChapterNine

“Y

OU

A

REN’T

W

EARING

K

EVLAR

.”Raven’shandhadslippedinsideWilliam’sshirt,makingcontactwith

hiscoolskin.Hecarriedher,movingatahighrateofspeedthroughthetrees.

“No,Iamnot.”

“Yoursoldiersare.”

“Iamanoldone,Cassita.Iamfasterandstrongerthantheothers.”

“Iwishyou’dwearit.”Shespokeagainsthischest.

William’sexpressionwasimpassive.“Huntersaretheleastofmyworries.”

Ravensighedandwithdrewherhand.“BorektoldmehewasRussian.”

Williamglancedbackatthesoldier,whostrainedtokeepupwithhim.“He’sfromPrague.”

“Whydidhelie?”

“TheCurialaidwastetothecovensinCzechoslovakia.Novampyredareslivewithinitsbordersor

lay claim to its heritage. No doubt Borek was afraid the Curia would kill him if they discovered the
truth.”

Ravenshivered.“Somuchdeath.Somuchkilling.Idon’tknowhowtheylivewiththemselves.”

Williamsnorted.“TheybaptizetheiractionsbyclaimingGodisontheirside.”

“Aretheyreallysoblind?Theremustbesomewayforthemtocombatavampyretake-overofthe

worldwithoutkilling.”

“Ifthereissuchaway,theyaren’tinterestedinfindingit.”

“Ithoughtyouweredead.”Raven’svoicegrewsmall.“Iagonizedoverit.Youpromisedwe’dstay

together,andyoubrokethatpromise.”

“Cassita,I—”

“Howcouldyousendmeaway?”Shesqueezedhisshoulder,hergreeneyesfixedonhisface.

Williamslackenedhispace.

“Youcouldhavebeenkilled.Orworse,youandyoursistercouldhavebecomepetstoanyone.Do

youunderstandwhatthatmeans?”Histonerevealedthesimmeringangerthatswirledinhischest.

“Machiavelliwasn’tinterestedinus.”

“Someone would have been. The best decision was to make everyone think the Curia wanted you

andtohaveyouescortedoutsidethecity.”

“Iwasnearlykilledbyaferal.Ahuntergrabbedme.Icouldhavediednothaving—nothaving—”

Williaminterruptedher.“IswearbythenameofmyteacherthatIwillneversendyouaway.Butif

yourpriestpersuadestheCuriatotakeyoufromme…”Hetrailedoff.

“IwillpersuadeFatherKavanaughtoletmestaywithyou.”

“I’vealwaysadmiredyouroptimism,Raven,butIcannotshareit.”Heincreasedhispace.“Still,I

haveoneallyleft.”

“Good.”Fatigueovertookher,andsheclosedhereyes,restinghercheekagainsthisshoulder.

It was easier like this—to close her eyes as they whipped past the scenery. The speed made her

dizzy,andjostlinggaveheraheadache.Butthetender,tightembraceofherbelovedcomfortedher.He
wouldprotecther,evenwithhislife.

Williamwasmuch,muchfasterthanBorek,evenwithherinhisarms.Twicehehadtoslowhispace

sothecommandercouldcatchup.

Atlengththeyapproachedahillandquicklyclimbedtowardthesummit.Butbeforetheycrestedthe

top,Williamhalted.

“Mylord?”Borek’svoicewastightashecaughtup.

William nodded toward the peak. “Your men and the other human are up there. But they are not

alone.”

Borekinhaledslowly.“Nothunters.”

“No.”William’sjawtensed.“Vampyres.”

ChapterTen

T

HE

P

RINCE

T

ESTED

T

HE

W

IND

,makingsureitwouldn’tbetraythemtothevampyreswho’dassembledon

thehill.

HegesturedforBorektofollowhim,andtheyslowlycreptuptothetop.Astheyapproached,they

couldhearvoices.

“But couriers were sent!” Stefan sputtered. “The new Prince of Florence sent a message to your

princess,explainingthatweneededtopassthroughherterritoryonourwaytoRome.”

“I know of no such message.” The male voice was harsh. “You’re trespassing. The price of

trespassingisdeath.”

Swordsrattled,andthesoundofheavyfootfallsrangout.

WilliamplacedRavenonherfeetandsprangforward,sworddrawn.

“Stop!”hecommanded,stridinginbetweentheUmbriancaptainandStefan.

William swiftly surveyed the situation, noting that the captain was accompanied by ten soldiers,

seven male and three female. He noted with satisfaction that one of his own soldiers held Cara some
distanceaway,whiletwoothersflankedthemforprotection.

“Yourhighness.”Thecaptaininclinedhisheadrespectfully.

ThePrincereturnedhisnod.“Yourname,soldier.”

“Julius,highness.We’vemetbefore.I’mcaptainoftheprincess’sguard.”

“Yes, we’ve met before.” The Prince forced a small smile. “I see you’ve come across my

detachment.Icanverifythatthey’reonofficialFlorentinebusiness,taskedtodelivertwohumanfemales
totheCuriainRome.”

The captain’s expression grew troubled. “We have no desire for conflict with the Curia. But with

respect,yourhighness,wecannotallowyoutopass.”

“YourprincessisafriendtomeandItoher.”ThePrince’stonewasfirm.

TheUmbrianshiftedhisfeet.“Yes,highness.Forthatreason,Iwouldprefernottoengageyou.But

wecannotallowyoutopassthroughourterritorywithouttheprincess’sapproval.”

Williamscowled.“Isentcouriersadayago.”

“As I said to one of your citizens, I know of no such couriers.” The captain’s eyes moved to the

soldierswhowereclosingranksbehindtheirPrince.Iftheyfeltsurpriseatthesightofhim,theychoseto
hideit.

“Therearehuntersabout.Wejustbattledtwentynotfarfromhere.”

“Andferals,”Borekadded.

“Weshouldn’ttarry,then.”TheUmbriancaptainliftedhissword.

ThePrincemeasuredhim.ThenhiseyesmetRaven’s.

The Prince sheathed his sword. “Very well. Take us to your princess. She and I will discuss the

matter.Wewillcomepeaceably,providedthereisnoprovocation.”

“No provocation from me or my guards, highness.” The captain whistled to his soldiers, and they

movedtosurroundtheFlorentines.

The Prince locked eyes with Stefan, who’d been cowering behind another soldier. “Hand me the

missive.”

Thephysicianfumbledinhispocketandheldouttheletterwithtremblinghands.

ThesoldierinfrontofhimpassedittothePrince.

“Youshallbedealtwith,traitor,”thePrincehissed.

WilliamturnedhisbackonthephysicianandcrossedovertoRaven,whiletheUmbriansstoodaside

tolethimpass.Hepickedherupandnoddedtothecaptain.

“Proceed.”

Withanotherwhistle,theUmbriansmarcheddownthehill,headingnorthtowardPerugia.

ChapterEleven

“W

HY

D

IDN’T

Y

OU

F

IGHT

?”RavenwhisperedinWilliam’sear.

“Theprincessisanimportantally.Andthenighthastoomanyeyes.”Hegaveherasignificantlook.

Raven bristled at his description of the princess, for it reminded her of William’s description of

Aoibhe.

“WhataboutCara?”

“Shesleeps.WhenwearriveinPerugia,Iwillattendtoher.”

“What’sinPerugia?”

“The princess.” William kissed her lightly, never slackening his pace. “Rest. You have a bruised

faceandaninjuredarm.Simonettawillbecuriousaboutyou,whichmeansweneedtobealert.Itwillbe
bestifwefeignindifferencetooneanother.”

“Youmayaswellaskthesunnottoshine.”

Williamsmiledandtookherlipsonceagain.

Sheclosedhereyes,afeelingofdisquietgrowingwithinher.

“Wehavearrived.”William’slowvoicebrokethroughRaven’sslumber.

The underworld of Umbria was, in appearance, very similar to the underworld of Florence. It

consistedofanetworkofhiddenpassageslitbytorchesandlarge,cavernousroomshewnoutofstone.

The Florentines were escorted into what looked like a council chamber, dominated as it was by a

goldthronethatsatelevatedatthefarendoftheroom.

Withoutexplanation,WilliamplacedRavenonherfeetnearthedoorandsteppedforwarduntilhe

stoodsquarelyinfrontofthethrone.

Headjustedthesleevesofhisblackdressshirt,thegoldofhiscufflinksshininginthetorchlight.

Asifoncue,thecaptainoftheguardwithdrewthroughasidedoor.

Suddenly,andwithoutwarning,awoman’sscreamfilledthespace.

Raventurnedandsawhersisterscratchingandpummelingthesoldierwhoheldher.

Thesoldiercursed,buthewouldnotstrikeher.Instead,hedroppedher.

Carafellroughlytothefloorandkickedathisfeet,cursingloudlyinEnglish.“Youbastard!Don’t

touchme!”

Thevampyregrowled,baringhisteeth.

“Cara, stop!” Raven limped toward her, but was surpassed by Borek, who placed his hand on the

othervampyre’schest,propellinghimbackward.

“Enough,”hecommandedinItalian.

TheangryvampyrespatacurseatCaraandmovedaway.

ShepeeredupatRavenandBorek,brushingherlong,blondhairawayfromherface.“Raven?What

areyoudoinghere?”

“Getcontrolofher.”BorekgaveRavenathunderouslook.

RavenwasabouttochallengeBorek,knowingthatWilliamwaswatching,butadoorslammedatthe

frontofthehall.

Alleyesmovedtothebeautifulvampyrewhofloatedacrossthefloortothethrone,wheresheseated

herself,adjustingherflowingazuresilkdress.

“Simonetta,”Ravenwhispered,eyeswide.

InfrontofhersatthepersonificationofVenusfromBotticelli’spainting.Ravenrecognizedtheface

andeyesimmediately,aswellthelong,flaxenhairthatfelltoherhips.

Asavampyre,LaBellaSimonettawasevenmoreexquisitethanshe’dbeeninlife.Ravenfelther

verylegsshakeinthemuse’spresence.

CaratuggedonRaven’ssleeve.“Wherearewe?Where’sDan?”

“Quiet.”Ravenhelpedhersistertoherfeetanddrewhertothebackwall.“We’reindangerhere.

Keepquiet.I’llexplainlater.”

Caramutteredtoherself,butwasinterruptedbyaloud,musicalvoice.

“Thisisunexpected.”TheprincessturnedcoolblueeyesontheFlorentines.

ThePrincegaveanexaggeratedbow.“Youcannotcondemnmeforwishingtogazeonyourbeauty

onceagain,LaBella.”

Thefemalevampyre’srosylipsturnedupintoasmile.“Youflatterme.”

“Iapologizeforinterruptingyourday.Itrustmycouriersdeliveredtheirmessage?”

“Theydid.”Shefussedwithherrobes,losingeyecontactwiththePrince.“Mycaptainwassentout

onpatrolbeforethecouriersarrived.”

“A thousand apologies.” He bowed once again. “Perhaps the patrol had something to do with the

UmbrianarmythatstandsontheborderofTuscany?”

Theprincessfixedhergazeonhisface.“Iheardrumorsofyourdemiseatthehandsofouroldfriend

Machiavelli.”

“Thoserumorswereexaggerated.”

“Indeed.” Her clear, light eyes moved over the Florentine soldiers, coming to rest on Cara and

Raven.“Idon’tsupposethehumansareagift?”

“I’mafraidnot,princess.Thesearethehumansspokenofbymycouriers.”

Simonettaregardedhimshrewdly.“SincewhendoesFlorencegivegiftstotheCuria?”

“With respect, princess, since when does Umbria threaten to invade Tuscany?” The Prince’s tone

grewsharp.

Shewasquietforaninstantandthenlaughed,themusicalsoundechoinginthelargechamber.

“Who’sthat?”Carawhispered,holdingtightlytohersister’sarm.

“That’sthePrincessofUmbria.”Ravenstrainedtoheartheexchangeensuingbetweenthetwoheads

ofstate.

Carafrowned.“Ididn’tknowUmbriahadaprincess.”

Ravensilencedhersisterwithalook.

“Iassembledmyarmyatthebordersimplyasaprecaution.Asyouknow,MachiavelliandIhavenot

beenonthebestofterms.NowthatIseemyclosestallyisprinceonceagain,Ishallorderthetroopsto
withdraw.”

ThePrincenodded.“Thankyou.”

“With respect to your couriers, I prefer to be given the opportunity to respond to a request, rather

thanhavingmyacquiescenceassumed.”Theprincessfrowned.

“Ofcourse.”ThePrinceadoptedacontriteexpression.“Athousandapologies.”

“Yourapologiesarenoted,butnotyetaccepted.”Shesmiled.“Letusretireprivately,wherewemay

discussthematterfurther.”

Shestood,andeveryonebowed.

Simonettaliftedhervoice.“ThePrinceandIhaveprivatebusinesstoattendto.Weshallreturn,in

time.”

“IfImay,princess.”ThePrincesteppedforward.

Shenoddedimperially.

“IregretImusttrespassonyourhospitality.Mysoldiersweresetuponbyhunters.Theyneedfood

andotheramenities,asdothehumans.”

Simonettaliftedherhand.“Julius,seetoitthatthehumanshavewhattheyrequire,andgivethema

roominwhichtorest.TheFlorentinesaretobegivensustenance,buttheyaretoremaininthischamber
untilwereturn.”

“Allowmetopostmyowncaptainandhissecondoutsidethehumans’door,”thePrincepressed.“I

wouldalsoappreciateitifyouwoulddetainStefanofMontréal,theformerphysicianofFlorence.Heis
nottobetrusted.”

Thephysiciansputteredhisprotest,butSimonettawasalreadynoddingatherguards.Twoofthem

walkedovertoStefananddraggedhimfromthehallamidsthisloudpleasforclemency.

Theprincessignoredhiscries,extendingherhandtothePrince.

Hekisseditbeforeplacingitinhisgrasp.Heandtheprincessexitedthroughasidedoor.

Caraexhaledherrelief.“Nowwhat?”

Raven didn’t hear her question. She was too busy staring after William, who’d left without a

backwardglance.He’dbeensosolicitouswiththeprincess,soattentive.

She’dneverseenhimbehavethatwaybefore.

Simonettamustbemorepowerfulthanshethought.

Julius, the Umbrian captain, interrupted her musings. “This way.” He gestured to the door behind

them.

RavenandCarahadnochoicebuttofollow,withBorekandanotherFlorentineattheirsides.

ChapterTwelve

“A

RE

Y

OU

T

RYING

to get me killed?” Aoibhe’s hands went to her hips as she discovered her lover

recliningonherbed.

Ibarra smiled and rolled to his side. “Is that any way to greet an important ally? I seem to recall

savingyourlife.”

“AsIsavedyours,Basque.Weareeven.”Shebenttopickuphisdiscardedclothesfromthefloor.

“Getdressedandgetout.”Shetossedtheclothesinhisface.“There’sahuntingpartyafteryou.If

someonetracesyourscenthere,thePrincewillkillme.”

“Youdidn’tknowIwashereuntilyouenteredtheroom.”Ibarrarestedhischinonanupturnedhand.

“ThePrincehasbarricadedhimselfinhisimpenetrablefortress.Notevenhehasspiesineverycornerof
thecity.”

Aoibhemovedtothewindowsanddrewthecurtains.“Don’tbeafool.Youwereheadofsecurity.

Youknowsomeofthehumansareinhisservice.”

Ibarrawaiteduntilhehadherfullattentionbeforeremovingthesheetfromhisbody.“Verywell,I’ll

leave. But I’d like to know how the Prince survived the last of the Medici and Machiavelli in a single
evening.”

Aoibheleanedwearilyagainstoneofthebedposts.“Manyofthebrethrenareloyaltohim.Gregor

ralliedhissupportersandcametohisaid.Whenitlookedasifthetidemightshift,thearmysidedwith
thePrince.”

Ibarraswunghislegsoverthesideofthebed.“TherearewhisperstheCuriahastakenaninterestin

Florence.”

Aoibheliftedherlongredhair.“ThePrincesenthispettothemasapeaceoffering.Apparently,they

wanther.”

“IsthatenvyIseeonyourface?”

Sheturnedaway,fussingwiththeskirtofherlong,crimsondress.“Ienvynothing,savethethroneof

Florence.”

“ThenIshallhavetosecureitforyou.Come,Aoibhe.”Histonegentled,andheextendedhishandto

her.“Wehavetheentiredaytoenjoyourselves.Lovemealittle.”

Ibarra’sbodywasaroused;itwasobvious.Buttheexpressiononhisfacebeliedanother,perhaps

deeper,desire.

Aoibhestared,herdarkeyescalculating.

Sheunfastenedherdressandpulleditoverherhead,droppingitontoachair.

ChapterThirteen

“Y

OU’RE

C

RAZY

.”Cararoundedonhersisterastheyenteredalavishlydecoratedroomlocatedoffoneof

themanyserpentinepassagesinPerugia’sunderworld.

The room itself was rectangular, furnished with a large, plush sofa and several high-backed

armchairs. An open door on one end revealed a bedroom. A corresponding door in the opposite wall
revealedabathroom.

Exhaustedmentallyandphysically,Ravencollapsedonthesofa,cradlingherinjuredarm.Bruises

hadblossomedonherpaleskin,andthefleshbeneathwastender.

She grabbed a fur throw and wrapped it around herself. Damp coolness radiated from the stone

walls,andherteethchattered.“I’mtellingthetruth.They’reallvampyres.”

“I knew it.” Cara came closer. “When you called me about David, I knew you were cracking up.

You’vebeencarryingthatshitsolongyoufinallybroke.”

“IfIwasgoingtobreak,Iwouldhavedoneitalongtimeago.”Ravenlookedupathersister.“Have

youseenwhattheycando?Haveyounoticedhowstrongtheyare?”

Caraploppeddownonthesofa.“It’safrickingRenaissancefair,completewithtoyswords.Where’s

Dan?Don’ttellmetheytriedtorecruithim.Heusedtodocommunitytheater.”

“He’sinFlorence.Whenyoucametomyapartment,avampyreattackedus.Wewerebroughthere,

andDanwasleftbehind.”

Caraturnedtofaceher.“Ishehurt?”

Ravenhesitated.“Idon’tknow.Hewasknockedunconscious.”

“Unconscious?”Cara’sfacegrewpale.“Andyoulefthim?”

“Ihadnochoice.Wewereattackedandcarriedoff.Someonecalledanambulancebeforeweleft.

That’sallIknow.”

Caraboltedtothedoor.“Wehavetogo.WehavetogetbacktoDan.”

“Wearen’tgoinganywhereuntiltheprincessreleasesus.”

Indefiance,Caraopenedthedoor.Foursoldiersstaredbackather,twooneachside.

Sheclosedthedoorandleanedupagainstit.“Thereareguardsinthehall.”

Ravensighed.“Ofcoursethereare.Vampyresareextremelyterritorial,andwe’retrespassing.We

can’tleaveuntilWilliampersuadestheprincesstoletusgo.”

Caraapproachedhersisteragain,standinginfrontofthesofa.“Forgetaboutthevampyrebullshit,

howcomeIdon’trememberbeingattacked?”

“You were thrown against a wall.” Raven’s voice wavered. “You had a head injury. You’ve been

unconscious.”

Caratouchedherhead,runningbothhandsoverherscalp.“Idon’thaveaheadache.”

“Williamhealedyou.”

“Who’sWilliam?DidheattackDan?”

“No,herescuedus.Hewastheoneinblacktalkingtotheprincess.He’sthePrinceofFlorence.”

Cararolledhereyes.“Everyonearoundhereisaprinceoraprincess.Whatareyou?ThePrincess

ofPortsmouth?”

“Veryfunny.”

“Whywouldthatguyhelpus?”

Ravenlookedathersisterdefiantly.“We’retogether.”

“Youhaveaboyfriend?Whydidn’tyoutellme?”

“Because he’s a vampyre. He’s the only reason we’re still alive. We were attacked, and William

savedus.”

Caraturnedonherheelandmarchedintothebathroom.Sheexaminedherselfinthemirror.“Ilook

okay.”

“That’sbecausehegaveyou…”Ravenclearedherthroat.“Nevermind.”

“Gavemewhat?”Caraemergedfromthebathroom.

“Theybroughtusfood.”Ravengesturedtothelavishtablesetuponthefarsideoftheroom.“Why

don’tyouhaveashowerandgetcleanedup?Thenwecanhavesomethingtoeat.”

“Thesepeoplecallthemselvesvampyres,andyou’resleepingwithoneofthem.”Carascrubbedat

herface.“Isthissomeweirdfetishthing?”

“Cara,comehere.”Ravenheldoutherhand.

Hersistertookitreluctantly,allowingherselftobepulledtoaseatedposition.

“Youdon’thavetobelieveeverythingIsay,butyouneedtohearme.Thesepeople,allofthem,are

dangerous.Theyviewusasfood,andtheyhavenoproblemkilling.”

Caragrimaced.“IncludingWilliam?”

“He’sdifferent.”

“Howdifferent?”

Raven made eye contact with her sister. “He’s the one who captured David and threatened to kill

him.”

“What?”

“Itoldhimwhathappenedtouswhenwewerechildren.WilliamwasdisgustedthatDavidgotaway

withit.Hewantedhimtopay.”

“Didhekillhim?”Carasqueaked.

“No.Hewantedto,butIwouldn’tlethim.WilliamturnedhimovertothepoliceinCalifornia.”

Carastaredathersister,herexpressionblank.“WeneedtogettoFlorence.Danishurt,andheneeds

ourhelp.”

Shestrodeintotheadjacentbedroom,dismayedtodiscoverittoowasabsentwindowsoranyother

visibleegress.

“Youaren’tlistening,”Ravencalled.Shewaitedforhersistertoemergefromthebedroom.“When

Williamcomesback,wecanaskhimaboutDan.Butwearen’tgoinganywhere.”

Cara’s blue eyes narrowed. “Yeah, your new boyfriend is a real prince. He drinks blood, hangs

aroundwithre-enactors,andkidnapsyourstepfather.”

Ravenleanedforward.“Ifyoudon’tbelieveme,askFatherKavanaugh.Heknowsexactlywhoand

whatthesepeopleare.That’swhyhewantedmetocometoRome,togetmeawayfromWilliam.”

Caraliftedherarmsinfrustration.“ThenforGod’ssake,Raven,whydidn’tyoucome?”

“BecauseFatherishidinghisownsecrets.”

“That’sobvious.HewasactingweirdwhenDanandIwenttoseehim,andhewasn’tgoingtoletus

leave.WehadtosneakoutoftheVaticaninordertoseeyou.”

“Exactly.Hedoesn’twantmenearvampyres,andhedoesn’twantyounearthem,either.”

Carawalkedovertothetableandretrievedanapple,takingalargebite.Shegavehersisterahard

look.“Tellmeeverything.Andstartatthebeginning.”

ChapterFourteen

S

IMONETTA

V

ESPUCCI’S

B

EAUTY

wasthestuffoflegends.

The Prince of Florence was well aware of this. He’d known her in life, and he’d known Sandro

Botticelli,theartistwhoimmortalizedherinsuchpaintingsasTheBirthofVenus.

The beauty she’d worn in life had been compounded a hundred fold when she became a vampyre.

Nowsheownedthefaceandformofagoddess.

During his tenure as prince, William had enjoyed her on more than one occasion. Simonetta was

passionatebutparticularwhenitcametoherlovers.ThePrincewasoneofherfavorites,whichwaswhy
hefollowedhertoherbedchamberonthisoccasionwithmorethanasoupçonofconcern.

The princess inhabited a stately villa in Perugia, which was so lavish it rivaled the Palace of

Versailles. Her bedroom, in particular, boasted large floor-to-ceiling mirrors on every wall, a gilded
ceiling,andheavy,ornatefurnitureupholsteredincrimsonvelvet.

AlthoughonemighthaveexpectedSimonettatospendmostofhertimegazingatherself,sherarely

did. The mirrors were installed primarily for her lovers, so that they could admire themselves as they
consortedandfornicatedwithagoddessforhoursonend.

There had been a time when the Prince was untroubled by the decadent furnishings, when he’d

enjoyedthemirrorsthatreflectedthelargeandstatelybed,andthefemalestridingtowardit.

Nowthesightrepelledhim.

“Given your trouble with Machiavelli and the Curia, I’m surprised you left Florence.” Simonetta

usheredthePrincetoalargesittingareaatthefarendofthechamber,merestepsfromherimposingbed.

“Machiavelli sent the detachment without my authority, and he neglected to send couriers first. I

cametorectifytheerrorandtoapologizefortheinsult,”thePrinceliedsmoothly.

Shesmiled.“Icanalwayscountonyoutorespectpropriety.ShallIarrangeforafeeding?Youmust

behungry.”

“Yourhospitalityisappreciated,butafeedingisunnecessary.Iameagerforthedetachmenttoreach

Romebeforesunrise.”

“I’d offer transportation, but since the Curia is involved, I prefer to remain neutral.” She pulled a

lengthofcordthatfellfromtheceiling.Aknocksoundedfrombehindoneofthemirrors.

“Enter,”shecommanded.

Themirrormoved,revealingahiddendoor.Aservantstoodintheopening,bowinglow.

Simonettaaddressedhimwithdetachment.“Fetchabottleofourfinestvintage,andbequickabout

it.”

Theservantbowedandwithdrew,replacingthemirror.

Simonetta walked over to a low couch and sat on it, arranging herself to best effect. She cast a

stunningfigurewithherlong,goldhairandazuredressagainstthecrimsonvelvet.Andsheknewit.

ButthePrince’sthoughtswereotherwiseengaged.Indeed,allhecouldthinkofwasRavenandhow

muchhewantedtoreturntoherside.

He’d gone to Santa Maria Novella to beg his teacher for intercession. Perhaps the saint had

hearkenedtohisrequest,perhapsnot.AtleastheandRavenweretogethernow.

Ravenwasn’tflawlessinappearanceasSimonettawas.Butthenatureofhersoul,thestrengthofher

virtueandcharacter,madeherunspeakablybeautiful.Withsuchthoughtsinmind,Williamgazedonthe
princess’sfaceandwatchedasthepearlofherlegendarybeautylostitsluster.

Simonettainvitedhimtositbesideher.Whenhedid,sheextendedherhand.

Hekisseditbriefly.“IrespectUmbria’sdesireforneutrality,butyoumustknowawariscoming.”

“Whyshouldwehavewarnow,afteralltheseyears?Wearen’tPragueorBudapest.”

He released her hand. “The Curia is on the move. They are eying my principality, waiting for an

opportunity.”

“TheRomanwouldneverallowit.”

“Treaties are made and broken; traitors abound.” His gray eyes met hers. “I say this as an ally,

Simonetta:bewary.Bevigilant.”

Herpaleeyesgrewsharp.“Whataren’tyoutellingme?”

“I tell you what you already know—the Curia stood by while Venice and Florence went to war,

hoping we’d destroy one another. When that didn’t happen, they turned their eyes on my city. My
detachmenttravelstoRometotrytonegotiateapeace.ButIhavenoconfidencesuchpeacewilllast.”

Theservantre-enteredthechamber,deliveringanopenedbottleandtwoornategobletsonatray.He

servedthevintageandwithdrew.

Thetwovampyresclinkedglasses.

Simonetta inclined her head, watching as he drank. “If the situation is as fraught as you say, why

leaveFlorence?”

ThePrinceswirledthebloodinhisglass.“AsIsaid,IwascleaningupMachiavelli’smess.”

“Ithoughtthat’swhywehadservants.”Shesippedtheblooddelicately.

“Servantscanbeincompetent.IneedtoexecuteStefanforthatreason.MayIhaveyourpermission

todosohere?”

“You’rewelcometouseourtorturechamber,ifyouwish.”

“That won’t be necessary. All I require is your aid in having the head and body burned. I shall

execute him personally.” The Prince’s attention returned to his glass, and he stared into the blackish
depths.

“Ofcourse.”Hereyebrowsdrewtogether.“IfnewsweretoreachyouthattheCuriadesiredUmbria,

wouldyoutellme?”

“Yes.”Helookedathercarefully.“CanIhopethesamefromyou?”

“Asalways.Youhavebeenanexcellentallyandneighbor.WouldthatalltheroyalsinItalywerethe

same.”Herrosylipspouted.“Thelasttimeyouvisitedme,youkeptmeatarm’slength.”

“Iwashunting.”Hedrainedhisglass.

“Yes,anAmericanfamily.MyspiestellmeyoudrovethemoutofUmbria,butyoudidn’tkillthem.I

findthatcurious.”

ThePrinceroseandplacedhisglassonthetray.“Withrespect,princess,Iameagertodispatchthe

detachmenttoRome.Iamgratefulforyourfriendship,asalways.Ipromisefriendshipinreturn.”

Simonetta put her glass aside and stood, her long, flaxen hair slipping over her pale shoulders.

“Surelyyourdeparturecanbedelayed.

“Come, William. Send the detachment, and I’ll order one of my patrols to accompany them to the

southernborder.Wecanentertainoneanotherinthemeantime.I’vemissedyou.”Shereachedforhim,but
caughtonlyair.

Hebowedtocoverhisevasion.

“Your offer of support is appreciated, but it’s best if the detachment departs as soon as possible,

unaccompanied.

“Astoyourotheroffer,youhonormewithyourattention,butImusttakemyleave.Florenceneeds

me.”

Simonettaliftedherhandandplaceditagainsthischeek.

Shestudiedhim.

“There was a time when you leaned into my touch.” She stroked his cheek with her thumb and

withdrewherhand.“Somethinghaschanged.”

Heforcedasmile.“Youareadelighttolookuponasalways,Bella.ButIaminhaste.”

“Letusnotlietooneanother.Notaboutthis.”Shereturnedtohercouch.“Idon’tsupposeAoibheis

thereasonforyourindifference?”

Williamstraightened.“Iamhardlyindifferent.”Heforcedhisgazetowanderoverhercomelyform.

“Ah,myoldfriend,thatwasalie.

“I’ve seen you distracted, but this is something else. One might almost think you’re in love.” Her

beautifulfacegrewgrave.“Iknowourkindonlytoowell,William.Wedon’tlove.Evenifweenjoya
fascinationforatime,allgoodthingsforusmustend.”

Shepaused,asifwaitingforhimtorespond.

Hesimplystood,worriedhe’dgiventoomuchaway.

Shegesturedtowardthedoor.“Executeyourphysician,sendyourdetachment,andtakeyourleave.

Mayyourbeautifulcityremainsafe,andmaywealwaysbeallies.”

William’sfacegrewgrim.Heretreated,pausinginthedoorway.“Thankyou,princess.”

Shewavedherfingersathimandreturnedherattentiontohergobletofblood.

AsWilliamexitedthedoorway,herealizedhehadbeentheonlyonetogazeintothemirrors,noting

theirreflections.Simonettahadn’tbothered.

Instead,she’dsatlikeabirdinagildedcage,watchinghisreactions.

Hefeltagooddealmorethanuncomfortableattherealization.

ChapterFifteen

I

SPETTOR

S

ERGIO

B

ATELLI

ascended the staircase from the crime scene to Raven Wood’s apartment,

mutteringcurses.

The body of an American man had been found inside the door to Signorina Wood’s apartment

buildingbyparamedics,whohadbeencalledtothescenebysomeoneclaimingtobeaneighbor.Once
theyarrived,they’dtriedtoresuscitatethevictim,buttonoavail.

Theinvestigatingofficerhadwritteninhisreportthatthevictimsufferedbluntforcetraumatothe

head. Before an autopsy could be performed, someone from the American consulate had appeared,
demandingthebody.Thelocalpolicerefused.Theautopsyhadbeenpostponedwhilesuperiorsonboth
sidesoftheconflictargued.

Batelli’scolleagueshadalreadysearchedSignorinaWood’sapartment.Hetorethroughthetapethat

sealedthedoorandopenedit.Heriskedtheireofhissuperiors,aswellasthatoftheofficerincharge,
buthedidn’tcare.

Heflickedthelightswitch.

The apartment was clean, exceptionally so. Scents of lemon and orange filled his nostrils. But the

apartmentwasempty.

Inthepolicereports,whichafellowofficerhadshownhim,neighborsclaimednottohaveseenor

heard anything suspicious before the body was found. They didn’t even know Signorina Wood was
movingout.

A quick telephone call to the Uffizi Gallery revealed that her employer had no idea of her

whereabouts;shewasonholidayliketherestoftherestorationteamuntilSeptember.

Batellistoodinheremptybedroom,staringatwhatappearedtobepartofacanethatwasembedded

inthewall.

Therewassomethingominousabouttheobject.Batellihadnoideawhatitrepresented,ifanything.

The victim they’d found downstairs wasn’t a relative of Signorina Wood, and he wasn’t the lover

Batellihadobservedfromadistanceenteringandleavingthebuilding.

Batelli trusted his gut. Right now, his gut was telling him Raven was somehow connected to the

corpse.ThehomicideinvestigatorswerewaitingontheAmericanconsulatetoprovidethemwithdetails
aboutthecorpse’sidentity.

Batelli hadn’t given up on solving the mysterious theft of Botticelli illustrations from the Uffizi,

despitethefactthattheirowner,ProfessorGabrielEmerson,hadgivenuphopeofrecoveringtheitems
andreturnedtoAmerica.

AndBatellihadn’tgivenuphisactivepursuitofthemysteriousanduntraceableWilliamYork,who

hadbeennamedbyProfessorEmersonasasuspiciouspersonconnectedtothegallery.

Batelli’sinvestigationhadquietlyyieldedtherecordofatransferoffundsfromabankinGenevato

theUffizi,adonationattributedtoWilliamYork.AlthoughDottorVitali,thedirectoroftheUffizi,seemed
tohavenomemoryofWilliamYorkorhisextravagantdonation,Batellibelievedhehadgiftedthemoney

for the purpose of securing an invitation to the private reception accompanying the unveiling of the
Botticelli illustrations. Professor Emerson had corroborated the donation and York’s presence at the
unveiling.

Ofcourse,thebankinGenevarefusedtoofferanyinformationaboutthefunds,apartfromconfirming

thattheyhadtransferredthemoneyfromoneoftheirinstitutionalaccountsattherequestofaclient.They
refusedtoidentifytheclientortoconfirmwhetherhe,she,ortheyheldItaliancitizenship.

BatellithoughtitwasinterestinghowallroadsledtoSwitzerland.Theillustrationshadbeensoldto

the Emersons by a Swiss family in Cologny, a suburb of Geneva. The car Raven Wood’s lover drove
around in was registered to a Swiss diplomat. A Swiss bank had transferred thousands of Euros to the
UffizijustpriortotheopeningoftheBotticelliexhibition.

Morepuzzlingstill,therewerenorecordsofaSwissresidentornationalnamedWilliamYork.

But the police had possession of his Mercedes, or what appeared to be the Mercedes Batelli had

observedRavenWoodandherloverusing.Thecarhadbeenabandonedashortwalkfromherapartment.
Earlierthatday,theforensicspecialisthadcombeditforevidence.

Batelli’scellphonechirpedwithanincomingtext.

Hewassurprisedtobereceivingamessage,asitwaslongpastmidnight.

Thetextwasfromanunknownnumber.

FindtheundergroundclubonViaGhibellina.

Batelliwasintrigued.

Heshovedhisphoneinhispocketandquicklysearchedtherestoftheflat.Whenhewasfinished,he

turnedoutthelightsandpainstakinglyrepairedthetapesealingtheapartment.

Perhaps the text was a joke. Perhaps it would lead nowhere. But he descended the stairs with the

intentionoffindingtheundergroundclub.

ChapterSixteen

“W

E

A

RE

D

EPARTING

F

OR

R

OME

.Assemblethemen,anddon’tbothertryingtofindStefan.Thetraitorhas

beendealtwith.”ThePrinceaddressedBorek,whobowedandmarchedaway,takingtheotherFlorentine
soldierwithhim.

The remaining Umbrian soldiers departed also, following the instructions of the princess’s

lieutenant.

Williamexhaledhisrelief.

Heopenedthedoortothechamberandhastilycloseditbehindhim.Raven’sscentassaultedhim.

“William?”Shesatupsleepilyonthecouch,rubbinghereyes.“What’shappening?”

“WeneedtoreachRomebeforesunrise.”Hesurveyedthedimlylitroom.“Whereisyoursister?”

“Intheshower.”Ravenpointedtotheclosedbathroomdoor.

“Canyoubereadytoleaveinafewminutes?”

“Ithinkso.”Shewenttohimandburiedherfaceinhischest.“Youweregonealongtime.”

Hetensedinherarms.“Protocolisneverswift.”

Sheliftedherface.Withoutwords,shepressedherlipstohis.

Hereciprocated,albeitbriefly.“Wedon’thavemuchtime.Iamsorry.”

“Ineedyou.”

IfWilliamfeltsurpriseatherdeclaration,hehidit.Hisgazeflickeredtothebathroomdoor.“What

aboutyoursister?”

Shesqueezedhismiddle.“There’sabedroom.Ithasadoor.”

“Aftersomuchdeath,youstilldesireme?”

She pressed her body to him. “I thought I’d lost you. I’m so relieved you’re all right.” Her voice

grewthroaty.“Ineedyou.”

Williamdidn’thesitate.Heliftedhertothebedroomandkickedthedoorclosedbehindthem.

“Wearen’tsafe,butwewillbe.Iswearit.”Hisgrayeyesburnedintohers.

“I’mjustgratefulyou’realive.”

“As alive as a vampyre can be.” He gave her a half-smile. “We don’t have time for words, if

couplingiswhatyoutrulywant.”

Shestrokedhisjaw.“Yes.”

Heplacedheronthelarge,four-posterbed,takingamomenttolightacandelabraononeoftheside

tables.Thenhereclinedonhisbackandpulledheratophim.

“Ican’t,”shewhimpered.

William’sfacewasstricken.“ButIthought—”

Shecuthimoff.“It’stheposition.”Shegesturedtoherinjuredleg.“I’minpain.Ican’tbeontop.”

Understandingwashedoverhisfinefeatures.

Ahigh-backed,armlesschairstoodnearby.Williamgesturedtoit.“Wouldthatbeallright?”

“Wecantry.”Shelookedupathimshyly.

Hecarriedhertothechairandsat,adjustingheronhislapsoherlegsweresuspendedoneitherside

ofhis.Hishandwenttoherinjuredleg.“Andnow?”

“Whateveryoudo,”shebreathed,“don’tletgo.”

Hishandsgrippedherhips.“Givememyname.”

“William,”shebreathed.

“Mylover,myCassita.Ishallneverletyougo.”

Shekissedhim,herfingerscombingthroughhisshort,blondhair.

Itwaseasyenoughtoshiftforwardonhislap,feelinghimrisebetweenherlegs.Raven’smovements

grewimpatient,teasingtheinsideofhismouthwithhertongueassheslidagainsthim.

Williamtouchedthearmshe’dinjuredinheraltercationwiththehunter.“Doesithurt?”

“Notanymore.”

His eyes glittered in the candlelight. He traced her still-swollen lip with his thumb. “And here?

Wherethatfiendstruckyou?”

“Ionlyfeelyou,”shewhispered,nippingathisthumb.

“Look at you, your eyes, your breasts, your skin.” He wrapped a hand around her neck. “You are

magnificent.”

Sheclosedhereyes.“AfterseeingSimonettainallherglory?”

Williampulledhertowardhim,andhislipsfoundherear.“NotevenSimonettainallherglorycan

comparetoyou,”hewhispered.“Ihavenodesireforher.”

He kissed her urgently and divested her of her shirt and bra. He lifted her in order to remove her

jeansandunderwear.Nowshewasnaked.

Hegazedatherfullbreasts,wettinghislowerlipinanticipation.

“Please,”shewhispered,rocking.

Hepepperedherroundfleshwithkisses,supportingherwithcoolhands.“Yourskinsmellsofrain.

Itremindsmeofhome.”

Shekissedhimreverently,leaningintohistouch.

Hismouthfastenedonanipple,drawingamoanfromhermouthashelickedandsucked.Hefeasted

onherforsometimebeforedrawingbackandpassinghisthumbsoverthesensitivetips.

“Iwanttofeedfromyou.”Hislipsflutteredtoherthroatandslidupthearchofherneck.

“Yes.”

“Setmefree.”Helickedapatchofskinbeneathherear.

Shereacheddowntohistrousers,shiftingsoshecouldworkthezipper.Shetookhiminherhand.

Hewasalreadyhard.

Shemoanedasheliftedherandslidherdownontopofhim.

Herheartbeatfrantically,thesoundlikeadrumtohisears.

Foramoment,shewasstill.Herskinburnedagainstthecoolnessofhistouch,abeadofperspiration

slidingbetweenherbreasts.

Williamcaughtitwiththetipofhistongue.

Withagasp,shebegantomoveupanddown,hisfingersdiggingintoherhips.

Perhapsitwastheposition.Perhapsitwastheurgencyorthedarkness.Ravenwastense,toomuch

inneedtoprolongtheseductiveculminationofsomuchwant.

Sheangledherneck,presentingthearterytohismouth,wrappingherarmsaroundhisshoulders.

Shemovedmorequickly,hisstronghandspushingandpulling.

Herhairbillowedaroundhershouldersasherorgasmrocketedthroughher.

“Lookatmylarkfly,”Williamwhispered,hisvoicetingedwithadmiration.“Fly,Cassita.”

He kissed her neck as she vibrated around him, tasting the skin before sinking his teeth into her

artery.

Raven’sorgasmcrested,andWilliamcontinuedtomove,thrustingintoherwhiledrinking.

Shekeptexpectingtheorgasmtowane,butitdidn’t,likealong,sustainednoteplayedinconcertby

anorchestra.

“Ican’t,”sherasped.“It’stoomuch.”Sheslumpedforward,mindlesswithpleasure.

Williamemptiedhimselfintoherbeforeswallowingherblood.Helickedtheimprintofhisteethand

kissedit.

“Jet’aim.”Heburiedhisfaceinhermaneofhair.“Youarepartofme,nowandforever.”

Ravencrashedagainsthischest.

ChapterSeventeen

“I

T

T

OOK

M

E

F

OREVER

to finger-comb my hair.” Cara swept from the bathroom into the living area.

“You’reluckyyoushoweredfirst.

“Whoa.”Shestoppedshort,catchingsightofWilliam,whoheldhersisterinhisarms.Hestoodnext

tothecouch;Ravencuddledagainsthischestwithablissfulexpressiononherface.

Ravenliftedherheadandsmiled.“ThisisWilliam.William,thisismysister,Cara.”

Caratookastepcloser.“Hedoesn’tlooklikeavampyre.”

AdeepgrowlsoundedfromWilliam’schest.

Caratookaverylargestepback.“Dovampyresgrowl?”

“That’senough.”RavenextricatedherselffromWilliam’sarmsandsatonthecouch.

HiseyesfixedonCara.“IfwearetoreachRomebeforesunrise,wemustleavenow.”

“Rome?”Ravencaughthishand.“WhyRome?WeneedtogobacktoFlorence.Cara’sfiancéwas

hurt.”

A muscle jumped in William’s jaw. He switched to Italian and dropped his voice. “I’m sorry,

Cassita.”

“Sorry?”Ravenrepeated,alsoinItalian.

“Whatisit?What’shesaying?”Caraapproachedthecouch.

Williampursedhislips.“Hisinjuriesweresevere.”

Raven’shandwentslack.“Howsevere?”

“I’msorry,”hewhispered.

Raven’seyeswidened.Astherealizationslowlysunkin,hergazeshiftedtohersister.

Ravenblinkedbacktears.

Caracrossedherarms.“Seriously.You’rebothbeingrude.”

“Cara,please,”Ravenstammered.“Giveusaminute.”

WilliamsqueezedRaven’shand.“Ishalltellhergently,Ipromise.”

“No.”Ravenswallowedhard.“Ineedtodoit.Just—justgivemetimetofigureouthow.”

Williamwinced.“Ifailedtoprotectyouboth.Iamsorry.

“But we don’t have much time. The Curia will have heard about the attempted coup. I need to

preventthemfrommarchingonmycity.”

“How?”

“ByaskingforthesupportoftheonepersontheCuriawon’twagewaragainst.”

“Who’sthat?”Ravenasked.

“TheRoman.”

Ravenpassedahandoverhereyes.“WhataboutCara?”

“The sooner she returns to America, the better.” William turned to Cara and switched to English.

“WearegoingtoRome.”

Cara rushed forward. “I need to go back to Florence to find my fiancé. I don’t have time to go to

Rome.”

“Weareleavingnow.”William’stonebrookednoargument.

Caragavehersisterachallenginglook.

“We can’t travel back to Florence by ourselves; William needs to go to Rome.” Raven stood

unsteadily.

ThePrincewrappedhisarmaroundRaven’swaist,sinceshewaswithouthercane,andhelpedher

tothedoor.Carafollowedthemintothehall.

Astheymoveddownoneofthedarkenedpassages,hespoketoRavenagaininItalian.“Idon’tthink

theboysuffered.”

Ravenpeeredbackathersister,whoeyedthetwoofthemcuriously.Herheartsank.

“Hewasgoodtoher.Shelovedhim.”

Williamgazeddownatherindistress.“Youmournhim.”

“Ido.Hewasherworld.She’llbedevastated.”

“Whatareyousayingtoeachother?What’sgoingon?”Caracrowdedthem.

Williamignoredher,stillspeakingItaliantoRaven.“Ifyourpriestisasgoodasyousay,hecould

helpyoursisterreturntoAmerica.”

Raventrippedoverherfeet,stumblinginthedarkness.

Williamliftedherintohisarms.

“Icanwalk,”sheprotestedinEnglish.

“Weareinhaste,andyou’rewithoutyourcane.”Williamincreasedhispacedownthedarkcorridor.

“She’snotaninvalid.”Caratrottedafterthem.“AndI’mstillwaitingforsomeonetoexplainwhat’s

goingon.”

“Just a minute, Cara.” Raven turned to William, addressing him in Italian. “You want to hand my

sisterovertotheCuria?”

Williamstopped,hisexpressiondark.“Iwashopingwecouldmakearrangementstotakehertoyour

priest.Ifwhatyoubelieveabouthimiscorrect,hewillprotecther.Whileshe’swiththeCuria,shewon’t
bepreytovampyres.”

Ravensearchedhiseyes.“Butyoutoldmetheyerasememories.”

Williamcontinuedwalking.“Theyerasememorieshavingtodowithvampyres.”

“Butwhatabout—”

“Yourpriestwantsbothofyou.I’mmorethanwillingtodeliveryoursister,buthewon’tbesatisfied

withthat.IneedtoasktheRomantosupportmydecisiontokeepyou.”

Ravendrewashakybreath.“WhatiftheRomanrefuses?”

“Thenitwillbeuptoyou.”

“Iwon’tleaveyou.”

William’s expression was grim. “If we lose the Roman’s support, nothing will prevent the Curia

frommarchingonFlorence.”

Ravengrabbedhisshoulder.“Thenwerunaway.Wegosomewheretheycan’tfindus.”

“Youarealarkthatdeservestobefree.Notafugitive.”

Ravenplacedherhandsonhischeeks,forcinghimtolookather.“Iwanttostaywithyou.Nomatter

what.”

Hesearchedhereyes.“Icannotabandonmycity.I’veseenthedevastationofPrague.Ican’tallow

thattohappentoFlorence.”

“Noonewantsawar.Therehastobeawaytoavoidit.”

“IwishIcouldbelievethat.”Williamcapturedherlipswithhis.

“Okay,ifyouguyswouldstopkissing,wecouldgetthisshowontheroad.”Carasoundedimpatient.

“AndspeakEnglish.”

“William is doing his best to protect us. I need to talk to you.” Raven paused, struggling with the

weightofthenewsaboutDan.

Atthatmoment,anUmbriansoldiermaterializedthroughoneofthedoorways.

Williamsnarled,andthesoldiermadeahastyretreat.

Carascowledathersister.“Yourboyfriendisananimal.”

Ravensighed.“Youhavenoidea.”

ChapterEighteen

“C

ARA

.”Raventookhersister’shand.“There’ssomething—”

“Youreallythinkthey’revampyres?”Carainterrupted,scanningthesupernaturalfiguresthatstood

severalfeetaway.

The detachment had taken a short rest just outside of Rome, so the sisters could speak privately.

Earlier,WilliamhaddispatchedoneofthesoldiersforFlorence,orderinghimtonotifyGregorthatthe
Umbrianarmystoodontheborder.ThesoldierwasalsoinstructedtoconcealWilliam’swhereabouts.

“Yes,Ido.”Ravensandwichedhersister’shandbetweenbothofhers.“Cara,I—”

“Theylookhuman.Obviouslywhentheypickedusupandstartedrunning,Irealizedtheyweren’t.

Theycan’tallbeOlympicsprinters.”Caralookedathersistercuriously.“Howexactlydoesonebecome
avampyre?”

Raven’sgazeflickeredtoWilliam,whowasengagedinanintenseconversationwiththeothers.

“Heexplainedittomeonce.Darkmagicisinvolved,butit’sliketransubstantiation.”

“Goodgrief.Asifanyonecanunderstandthat.”Carafloppedonherbackunderneathatree.“You

sayyourboyfriendistheonewhokidnappedDavid?”

“Yes,Iexplainedthatalready.Cara,youneedtolistentome.I—”

“WhywouldhecareaboutDavid?”

Raven moved closer, lowering her voice so the soldiers wouldn’t hear. “He loves me. I told him

whathappenedtomyleg,andhewasangry.Hesaidhe’dgivemejustice.”

Cara’seyebrowsshotup.“Isheavigilanteorsomething?”

“Something like that.” Raven rubbed her forehead distractedly. “Didn’t you hear about what

happenedtoDavid?MomsaiditmadethenewsinMiami.”

“YoutalkedtoMom?”

“Iwasworriedaboutyou.Youweren’tansweringthelandlineatyourhouse,soIcalledMom.She

saidDavid’sarrestinCaliforniamadethenews.”

“Idon’tremember.”Caraclosedhereyesforafewseconds.“Itmustbelackofsleep.AndIhavea

splittingheadache.”

Raventouchedhersister’sface,smoothingthehairbackfromherforehead.SheknewCara’slossof

memorywasrelatedtoingestingAoibhe’sblood.Butshedidn’thavethehearttotellher.

Shechangedthesubject.“IwantedyoutomakethedecisionaboutwhattodowithDavid.Afterwe

fought,ItoldWilliamtosendDavidbacktoCalifornia.Hewasarrestedandledthepolicetoapedophile
ring.”

“BacktoCalifornia?”Cararolledtoherside.“SoDavidwashere?InItaly?”

“Yes.”

“Thatmusthavescaredthecrapoutofhim.”Carapaused,runningherhandalongthegrass.“IfI’d

askedforadifferentoutcome,whatwouldyouhavedone?”

“Iwouldhavegivenittoyou.”

“Anything?”

“Anything,”Ravenspokewithouthesitation.

“Why?”

“BecauseIloveyou.Becauseyou’remysister.”

Thewordshungintheairbetweenthem.

At length, Cara broke the silence. “I wonder if I would have behaved the same way if I were the

oldersister.”

“Ofcourse.”

“Notof course.” Cara flipped her long, blond hair behind her shoulder. “Most people only worry

aboutthemselves.You’vealwaysworriedabouteveryoneelse.”

Ravenavoidedhereyes.

Caracontinued.“I’vealwaysknownthatifIwasintrouble,you’dhelpme.ApartfromDan,you’re

theonlypersonItrust.”

“Thankyou.”Raven’svoicecracked,hereyesfillingwithtears.

“Don’tcry,sweetie.”Carasmiledandtouchedhersister’sface.“I’msorryIflippedoutonyou.Dan

issorry,too.That’swhywecametoseeyou.Idon’tunderstandwhyyourvampyreboyfriendwon’tletus
gobacktoFlorencetohelpDan.”

“That’swhatI’vebeentryingtotellyou.Williamhadnews.”

Carasatup.“OfDan?Isheokay?”

“Hewasbadlyinjured.”

“Iknowthat.”Caradustedgrassoffherclothes.“That’swhyIneedtogettohim.”

“Cara,Dan’sinjurieswerereallysevere.Whentheambulancearrived,theytriedtorevivehimand

—”

Carainterrupted.“Saidwho?”

“William.That’swhathewastellingmeinItalian,backinPerugia.I’msosorry.”Ravenshookher

head.

“No.”Carastood,placingherhandsonherhips.“Itmustbeamistake.”

“Iwishitwere.”AtearfellonRaven’scheek.

BeforeRavencouldrisefromtheground,Williamwasatherside.“Cassita?”

“Youdon’tknowhim.”CarawhirledonWilliam.“Youdon’tknowwhathelookslike.Youcouldbe

mistaken.”

William offered Raven his hand and helped her to her feet. “I never met him, but my sources are

reliable.HisbodywasfoundinRaven’sapartmentbuilding.”

“Idon’tbelievethat.Iwouldhavefeltsomething.Iwouldhaveknown.”Caralookedaroundwildly.

“Wehavetogoback.Nooneknowshimthere.He’sprobablyinthehospital,unconscious.”

“Cara,listentome.”Raventriedtoputherarmsaroundhersister,butshepushedheraway.

“Wehavetogoback.”CaragrabbedWilliam’sarm.“Wehavetogonow!”

RaveninhaledloudlyatthesightofhersistergrabbingthePrinceofFlorence.

WilliammerelyinclinedhisheadtolookatCara’shand,wrappedaroundhisbicep.Hisexpression

wasillegible.

“Cara,letgo,”Ravenwhispered.

“She’s grieving.” William spoke Italian, and his eyes sought Raven’s. “Am I going to have to use

mindcontrol?”

“She’sbeenthroughenough,”Ravenreplied,alsoinItalian.

“Ifshebecomeshysterical,Ishallhavenochoice.”

CarapulledonWilliam’sarm.“IwanttogobacktoFlorence.Iwanttoseemyfiancé.Please.”

Williamregardedherforalongmoment.Hisexpressionsoftened.“Youarecorrect;Ididn’tseethe

body.Andofcourse,youweren’ttheretoidentifyhim.”

“See?”CarareleasedWilliam’sarmandgavehersisterahopefullook.“It’smistakenidentity.”

“IcantakeyoutoyourpriestinRome,”Williamoffered.“HecancontacttheFlorencepoliceand

makeenquiries.It’stoofartotraveltoFlorencetonight.Othersofmykindmightattackus,andthereare
hunterswhowouldlikenothingmorethantokillus—allofus,includingyouandyoursister.”

Cara’seyebrowscrinkled.“IsItalyreallythatdangerous?”

ThePrinceignoredherquestion.“Ourbestcourseofactionforyouandyourfiancéistodepartfor

Romeimmediately.”

“William,”Raven’svoicewasaplea.

“Letherhaveherdenial,”herespondedinItalian.“Thetruthwillconfronthersoonenough.”

Cara dusted off her jeans again. “The sooner we get to Rome, the sooner we can see Father

KavanaughandheadbacktoFlorence.Let’sgo.”

Raventurnedherbackonhersister,furiouslywipingawayanothertear.

“Cassita.”Williamplacedhislipstohercheek.“Trustmetotreatyoursisterwithcare.”

Shenodded,stiflingasniffle.

Williamliftedhisvoicetoaddressthedetachment.“WedepartforRome.Fromnowuntilwereturn

toFlorence,assumeallyourwordswillbeheardbyourenemies.Saynothingthatwillcompromiseour
purpose.” His eyes fixed on the women as he switched to English. “That includes you, as well. Say
nothingofyourpriest.Saynothingofyourfiancé.”

HeliftedadistressedRavenintohisarmsandledthedetachmenttowardRome.

ChapterNineteen

“W

E

H

AVE

A

RRIVED

.”ThePrincehaltedthedetachmentjustoutsidethecity.

“Cassita,”hesaidgently.

Ravenjoltedawake,andheplacedheronherfeet.

BorekdepositedCaranexttoher,andthetwowomenleanedononeanother,blinkingawaysleep.

Carasquintedatthelightsofthecity,visibleinthedistance.“Wearen’tattheVatican.”

Ravenshushedher.“Weneedtomakeastopfirst.”

“Astop?”Caralookedaround.“Why?”

“Silence.”William’stonewasacommandingwhisper.

“Wouldyoulikemetoactascourier,myLord?”Borekbowed.

The Prince turned his face downwind. “They know we’re here. They’ve been tracking us the past

sevenmiles.”

“Whyaren’tweattheVatican?”CaraapproachedWilliamwithtwoquicksteps.“Ithoughtwewere

goingtoseeFatherKavanaugh.”

The Prince wrapped his hand around her neck, forcing her to look at him. “Silence. You will stay

silentuntilIgiveyoupermissiontospeak.Iamyourmasternow.”

Cara’seyesglazedover,andsheclosedhermouth.

“No!”Ravencried,limpingtowardhersister.

Asifoncue,anarmedcompanyofsoldiersmaterializedfromthedirectionthePrincefaced.They

encircledtheFlorentinescompletely.

ThePrincereleasedCaraandplacedherandRavenbehindhim.

Raven tucked her sister into her side and murmured comfortingly in her ear. But before she could

demand that William release the mind control, the leader of the company of soldiers stepped forward,
sworddrawn.

“ThisistheborderoftheprincipalityofRome.You’retrespassing.”

ThePrincearchedaneyebrow.

Ravennoticedaslightshiftintheleader’sexpressionwhenWilliamdidn’trespond.

Theleaderexaminedhimwithnarrowedeyes.

“Sincewearestandingoutsidetheborderoftheprincipality,wearenottrespassing.”ThePrince’s

gazemovedtosomeinvisiblelinethatlaytohisright.

“Stateyourbusiness,”theleadersnapped,brandishinghisweapon.

ThePrincerumbled,deepinhischest.“IamthePrinceofFlorence.”

Theleader’sfrowndeepened.

ThePrinceliftedhisarmtodisplaythesignetringheworeonhisrighthand.

“Beg pardon, your highness.” The leader inclined his head slightly. “We had no notice of your

arrival.”

“Unfortunately,itappearsmycourierswerekilledbeforetheyarrived.Hunters.

“I am accompanied by my personal guard, along with two pets. I’m here to speak with Lieutenant

Catoonurgentbusiness.”ThePrincegesturedtowardtheleader.“Andyouare?”

“Captain Gaius.” His gaze moved from Florentine to Florentine, as if measuring their threat. “It’s

almostsunrise.LieutenantCatowillnotbereceivingguestsatthishour.”

“Thenweshallwaituntilamorereasonablehour,insidethepalace.”

Gaiusscannedthedetachmentonceagain.“Ican’tescortyoutothepalacewithoutapprovalofthe

lieutenant.”

ThePrince appeared irritated.“Then I shallescort myself. If you’reold enough tobe captain of a

company,Gaius,you’reoldenoughtoknowofmyloyalty.Isentanemissarytospeakwiththelieutenant
onlyrecently.NowIhavedecidedtospeakwithhimmyself.”

“Imeantnodisrespect,yourhighness,butImustobeyorders.”

“ThelocationoftheRomanpalaceisn’tasecrettome.EscortustotheForumandallowustowait

whileyousecureapproval.ButbeadvisedIwillnotbecaughtoutofdoorsaftersunrise.”ThePrince’s
toneheldawarning.

Gaiushesitated.

Heturnedandbarkedanordertooneofhissoldiers,whotookoffathighspeed.

Gaiusreplacedhisswordinitsscabbard.“WeshallescortyoutotheForum,yourhighness,while

mycouriersendswordtothelieutenant.Butyourdetachmentmustdisarm.”

“No.”

TheleaderstaredintothePrince’seyes,andhisowneyesgrewunfocused.

Hebrokeeyecontactabruptlyandturnedonhisheel.“Thisway.”

“Jedimindtricks,”RavenmutteredastheRomansoldiersbegantomarchtowardthecity.

“Looksharp,”thePrincewhisperedtohissoldiersastheyfollowedtheRomans.“Keepholdofyour

weapons,butbediscreet.”

Raven contemplated arguing with William about what he’d just done to Cara, but elected to wait.

Theywereinaprecariousposition,oneshewouldnotworsenbydrawingattentiontoherself.

WilliamgesturedtoBorektocarryher,whileoneoftheothersoldierscarriedhersister.

When the Czech lifted her over his shoulder and strode after the Prince’s departing back, Raven

couldn’thelpbutfeelpunished.

Carahadn’tutteredasoundsincethePrincehadsilencedher.

TheRomanguardledthemonacircuitousroutethroughthecity.Finally,theyarrivedattheForum,

stoppingunderthearchofSeptimiusSeverus.

GaiusaddressedthePrince.“Wewillawaitwordfromthelieutenanthere.Ifthelieutenanttarries,

there’sahidingplacenearby.”

ThePrincestaredoverthecaptain’sshoulderatthePalatineHill.Henoddedimperially.

Sunrisewasfastapproaching,andthelandscapewaschanging.Noonewouldriskbeingdestroyed

bythesun’srays.

Mercifully,thecaptain’scourierreturnedquickly.

Hewhisperedafewwordsinthecaptain’searandstoodback.

The captain bowed. “Lieutenant Cato welcomes the Prince of Florence and offers greetings and

hospitality.Weshallescortyouintothepalace.Butthepetsmustbeblindfolded.”

Thecaptaingesturedtothecourier,whoheldouttwolengthsofredsilk.

ThePrincenoddedatBorek,whoretrievedthesilkandquicklyblindfoldedCaraandRaven.

Ravenshiftedherblindfolddiscreetly,hopingtocatchaglimpseoftheirdestination.

“Careful,”Borekgrowledinherear.“You’llgetyourselfkilled.”

She dropped her hand. Still, if she positioned her head at a particular angle and looked straight

down,shecouldseewhatlaybeneathher.

“Forward,march!”ThecaptainledthepartydowntheViaSacraandthroughtheRomanForum.

Thevampyres,asalways,movedataninhumanpace,evenoverunevenground.TherideonBorek’s

shoulderwasincrediblybumpy.Ravenclutchedathisshirt,terrifiedhewoulddropher.

Shortly,theyhaltedatthebaseofthePalatineHill.

Thecaptainledthemintoadarkpassagethathadbeencarvedintothehillitself.Thescentofdamp

earthfilledRaven’snostrils.

Aloudscrapingnoise,likethesoundofironagainstiron,echoedandreverberated.Ravenheardthe

groanofwhatsoundedlikemetalhingesandthelowwhistleofsomethingmovingthroughair.

Thedetachmentmovedforward,marchingandturningthroughalabyrinthofpassagewaysonlydimly

litwithtorches.

Ravenheldherbreathasthepalpablefeelingofdangerpressedinfromallsides.

ChapterTwenty

R

AVEN

H

AD

F

ELT

F

EAR

B

EFORE

. She’d been afraid of her stepfather when she was young, she’d been

afraidofthedarkwhenshelivedinfostercare,andshe’dbeenafraidwhenshefirstenteredthePrince’s
world.ShedislikedbeingintheundergroundofFlorence.Shedislikedbeingblindfolded.

But in the underworld of Rome, something even more sinister hung in the air. Icy tentacles of fear

crept over her skin, despite being suspended on Borek’s shoulder, surrounded by the rest of the
detachment.

Musicreverberated,asiffromadistantdanceclub,thebasslineshakingRaven’sbody.Shefound

herselfclingingtoBorek’sshirtamidthepunishing,relentlessrhythm.

Themusicgrewfainterastheymarched.Screamsandharshlaughterexplodedfromplacesunknown,

alongwithorgiasticcries.Sobbingandmoaningcouldbeheard—nownear,nowfar—throwingRaven’s
sensesintoconfusion.

Iftherewereahell,itwouldsoundlikethis,shethought.

ShepressedanearagainstBorek’sbodyandcoveredtheotherwithherhand,tryingtoblockoutthe

cacophony.

“Calmyourself,”hehissed.“Everyonecansmellyourfear.”

“Where’smysister?”ShetriedtocatchaglimpseofthesoldierwhoheldCara.

Borek’slargehandflexedoverthebackofherlegs,amovecalculatedtosilenceher.

“She’sinfrontofme,”hewhispered.

Raven stopped struggling, but her heart beat a furious pace. What if they were separated from the

group?WhatifoneoftheRomansdecidedtotakeCara?

Shecouldn’tbreathe.Panicensuedasshegaspedforair.

Somethingcooltouchedherhand.

Ravenjerkedherhandaway,butthecoolnessfollowed;ahandgentlycoveredhers.Athumbstroked

herpalm.

William.

Shecouldn’tseehim,butshecouldfeelhim.Ameasureofcalmwashedoverher.Williamwould

standbetweenherandthedarkness.Always.

Shemovedherhand,questingforhisfingers.Shewishedshecouldspeaktohim.Shewishedshe

could beg him to get her out of this terrible place. But he was on a mission, and the protection of the
Romanmustbeworththeriskofdescendingintowhatseemedlikeperdition.

Williamtracedapatternonherpalmandwithdrew.Ravenfocusedonthememoryofhisfingersand

drewaverydeepbreath,willingherheartbeattoslow.

ThedetachmentofFlorentinesascendedastaircasethatseemedtospiralinanever-endingcircle.

Themusicdulledtoalowthud,asifitwerefarbelowthem.

Eventually,theyhalted.

Ravenmovedherheadandwasabletodiscernthattheyweregatheredinanarrowpassage,litby

torches.

CaptainGaiusannouncedthattheyweretowaitinsidetheroomsprovideduntilLieutenantCatosent

forthePrince.Thecaptaingavenoindicationofhowlongthatmightbe.

ThePrincehadashortexchangewiththecaptain,whichwasstudiouslyformal.Ravenknewfrom

William’s tone that he was angry at being delayed. But he eventually acquiesced to the captain’s
instructions.

TheFlorentineswereusheredthroughadoor,andtheRomanescortwithdrew.Sheheardthesound

ofadoorclosing.

William undid Raven’s blindfold, pointing her and her sister toward a lavishly decorated sitting

room.Heremainedwiththesoldiers,whocloisteredthemselvesintheadjoiningspace.

“YouareconfinedtothesequartersuntilIorderotherwise.CommanderBorek,Ileaveyouincharge.

Iwillseetoitthatbottlesofbloodaredeliveredtoyouforfeeding.”

ThePrincecrossedovertothesittingroomandclosedthedoorbetweenthetwospaces,closeting

himselfwiththewomen.

“Release her.” Raven’s arm was around her sister’s shoulder, while Cara stared unseeingly into

space.

“No.”

“William.”Raven’svoiceedgedpastreproachfulintoangry.

“Remember how you felt walking through the palace halls?” William’s gray eyes were knowing.

“Youwererighttobeafraid.EventhoughtheRomanismyally,likeallvampyres,heiscapriciousand
not to be trusted. We are surrounded by potential enemies. The smallest unguarded word from your
sister’slipscouldmeanthedeathofallofus.”

Raven’sgreeneyesgrewround.“But—buttheRomanwouldneverkillyou.”

“EvenIhaveexecutedallies.”

BeforeRavencouldrespond,hegesturedtothetwincouchesthatstoodinthecenteroftheroom.

“Rest.Ishallarrangeforfoodanddrinktobesentdown.Butdon’tleavethisroom.”Hepaused,his

eyesmovingoverherface.“Wemaybehereforsometime.”

ChapterTwenty-One

T

HE

P

RINCE

W

AS

O

N

AM

ISSION

.

Evennow,theCuriacouldbestorminghiscity.IbarraandAoibhewerelikelycolludingagainsthim.

Indeed,theycouldhaveusurpedhisthroneinthehourshe’dbeenabsent.

Hedidnothavetimetowaituntilthelieutenanttiredofhiscurrentpursuitsanddecidedtogranthim

anaudience.

ThePrincearrangedforhissoldierstobefedandforhumanfoodtobedeliveredtoRavenandher

sister. He insisted he be allowed to wait outside Lieutenant Cato’s audience room until the lieutenant
agreedtoseehim.

CaptainGaiushadorderedthePrincetoreturntohisquarters,butWilliamsimplyusedamildform

ofmindcontrolonthecaptain,andhe’drelented.

ThePrincewassurprisedthatacaptainintheRomanguardwouldbesosusceptibletoanoldone’s

influence.Hemadesuretokeephismindcontrolsubtle,soasnottoattractattention.

NowhewaitedonCato,hisbodyandmindrestless.

He’dforgottenwhatlifewaslikeintheRoman’spalace,butwasremindedbythecitizenswhoused

theantechamberastheirpleasureden.Vampyresdriftedinandoutoftheroom,fornicatingandfeedingon
humanbeingsandeachother.

William’ssensitiveearspoundedwithmusicthatemanatedfromthelargecentralhallontheground

floorofthepalace.

From time to time, a citizen’s eyes would stray to William’s, and he or she would beckon him.

Williammerelyshookhishead,toodisgustedtoexchangewords.

Eventually,Gaiusdrovetherevelersaway,orderingthemtopursuetheirorgyelsewhere.

ThePrinceclosedhiseyesinrelief.

MuchinkhadbeenspilledonthedecadenceofancientRome.ButthedecadenceofvampyricRome

wassurelyarival.HowhelongedfortheorderanddignityofFlorence.Howhelongedtoretreattohis
villaandholdRaveninhisarms,blottingoutthestarkdepravityofhisbrethren.

These thoughts plagued him as the lieutenant kept him waiting, minute after minute and hour after

hour.

The slight was intentional. However, the Prince was shrewd enough to hide his ire. When he was

finallyescortedintotheaudienceroom,justbeforesunset,heforcedhimselftogreetthelieutenantwith
deferentialrespect.

Cato was an Italian and at least two centuries away from becoming an old one. Nevertheless, he

dressedastheRomanhimself,inthepurpleimperialtogaofancientRome.

The Prince was surprised. Only the Roman himself wore purple, while his lieutenant was usually

restrictedtowearingwhite.

William’seyesnarrowedashetookCato’smeasure.

“Welcome, your highness.” The lieutenant inclined his head from his position on the throne. “I

apologize for the delay. If we had had advance notice of your arrival, I would have arranged a more
suitablewelcome.”

“Thank you, lieutenant.” The Prince bowed his head perfunctorily. “Rome’s hospitality is always

suitable.Florenceisatgraverisk,whichiswhyIarrivedunannounced.”

“Iheardoftheattemptedcoup.”ThelieutenantgazedatthePrinceappraisingly.“Youappeartohave

survivedit.”

ThePrincestoodtall.“I’vecometoseetheRoman.”

“I’mafraidthekingisnotreceivingvisitors.”

ThePrincefrowned.“Itisamatterofsomeimportance.”

The lieutenant offered him an indulgent smile. “The Roman has delegated affairs of state to me. I

perceive that you know this since I was visited by your own lieutenant some time ago. Perhaps if you
weretocommunicateyourconcernstome,Imaybeofassistance.”

“ThereisanissuewiththeCuria.”

Thelieutenant’sgazesharpened.“Whatissue?”

“AnissuesogreatIhavecometosolicittheRoman’sguidance.”

“AsIsaid,theRomanhasdelegatedaffairsofstatetome.Ifyouneedguidance,Ishallofferit.In

consultationwiththeking,ofcourse.”

ThePrincepaused,strugglingtokeephistemper.“Yourwisdomisnotinquestion,lieutenant.Butthe

RomanandIknowoneanotherpersonally.Icomenotonlyasasubjectbutasafriend.”

Catofingeredthegold-embroiderededgeofhistoga.“TheRomanhasnofriends.”

“It appears you don’t know me, Cato, but I know you. I know you came from Pisa in the sixteenth

century.IknowyouhavebeenaloyalsubjecttotheRoman,andinreturn,youwereelevatedtolieutenant.

“Butyouarenotanoldone.Thus,youcanbeexcusedfornotknowingthatmyfriendshipwiththe

Romanbegancenturiesbeforeyouwereborn.”

ThelieutenantgavethePrincealonglook,hiseyesbeady,hisfacepinched.

ThePrincegesturedtothedoor.“PerhapsifyouweretoconsultoneoftheoldonesofRome,heor

shecouldcorroboratemyconnection?”

Thelieutenantsmotheredasmile.“Come,letmeofferrefreshment.”HebeckonedthePrincetositin

anearbychairandbeganpouringbloodintotwoornatesilverchalicesthatrestedonasidetable.

Thevampyressalutedoneanotheranddrank.

“Iknowmoreaboutyouthanyoumightthink,Florentine.”Cato’sexpressiongrewaccusatory.“You

claimtobeafriendoftheRoman,butyouhaven’tvisitedthecitywithinmymemory.”

ThePrinceheldthechaliceloosely.“Thatistrue,butourconnectionisofauniquenature.”

Catoleanedforward,hisvoicetakingonasalacioustone.“Ididnotrealizeyouracquaintancewith

theRomanwasintimate.”

Williampressedhislipstogether.HehadmeresecondstodecideifhewasgoingtocorrectCato’s

characterization.Butonreflection,herealizeditmightofferanadvantage.“Itcouldbedescribedthusly.”

“Interesting,” the lieutenant murmured, sitting back on his throne. He seemed to peer over at the

Princewithneweyes.

“Irepeat,perhapsoneofRome’soldonesmightcorroboratemyconnection?”

“Iamtheoldest,nexttoourking.”Thelieutenantpreened.

ThePrincehidhissurprise.Thereshouldhavebeenatleastthreeoldonesstillinresidenceinthe

principalityofRome,inadditiontotheking.Hehadnotheardnewsoftheirdepartureorofanyfoulplay
havingbefallenthem.

Somethingverystrangewasgoingon.

Heschooledhisfeaturescarefully.“It’scleartheKingdomofItalyisincapablehands.Butmyissue

withtheCuriaisurgent.ImustseektheRoman’scounsel.”

“Since you are an old one, you know that the Roman has had no dealings with the Curia since the

treatywassigned.Theypursuetheirgoals,andwepursueours.”

“Asitshouldbe.ButFlorenceisbeingthreatened.Itwouldbefollyformetoenterintoanewtreaty

withouttheRoman’scounsel.”

Catoliftedhishead.“FlorenceenteringintoitsowntreatywiththeCuria?Thatwouldbeunwise.”

ThePrincereplacedthechaliceonthetable.“WhichiswhyIneedtheRoman’scounsel.”

“Restassured,IwillconveyyourconcernstotheRomanpersonally.Nowifyou’llexcuseme.”The

lieutenantcontinueddrinkingfromhischalice.

The Prince stood. “The matter with the Curia is of some urgency. I must speak with the Roman

today.”

“AndasIsaid,”thelieutenantdroppedhisvoice,“Iwillconveyyourconcerns.Thatisall.”

ThePrince’sarmsmovedtohissides,andhishandscurledintofists.

He was more powerful than the lieutenant and could kill him easily, but only at great peril to his

missionandtothewomenwhorestedobliviouslyintheguestchambers.

ThePrinceclosedhiseyes,hisnostrilsflaringlikeadragon’s.

Heopenedhiseyes.“Youarewastingprecioustime.”

“IbelieveIshouldbetheonemakingthatclaim,sinceIhaveofferedmyassistancerepeatedly,only

toberebuffed.”

“Givenmymostrecentcorrespondencewiththeking,Ibelievehewouldwelcomemypresence.”

“Correspondence?”Thelieutenantlaughed.“TheRomanhasengagedinnorecentcorrespondence.”

NowthePrincesmiled.Hedidsoslowlyandwithadangerous,knowingglintinhiseye.Aglintthe

lieutenantcouldnotoverlook.

“Perhapsyoudidnotseetheking’saddendumtothemessageIreceivedfromyourecently.Doyou

rememberthatmessage,LieutenantCato?”

ThePrincewaitedforanacknowledgement,toyingwithhisenemybeforeloweringthenoose.

“Whatofit?”Thelieutenanteyedhimgrumpily.

“ThemessagewashanddeliveredbyLorenzo,mylieutenant,afterconflictensuedbetweenFlorence

andVenice.”ThePrinceretrievedafoldedpieceofpaperfromhispocket.

Hehelditout,thewayachilddanglesaboneinfrontofadog.

Cato placed the chalice on the table. “The king doesn’t engage in correspondence. That letter is a

forgery.”

“Ah,butitisn’taletterfromtheking.Theletterisfromyou,inyourownhand.Youcanscarcely

denyit.”ThePrinceprodded.“It’stheaddendumatthebottomyoushouldbeconcernedabout.”

CatoliftedfromhisthroneandsnatchedthepaperfromthePrince’shand.Heunfoldeditquickly.As

hisgazealightedontheshortmessageatthebottomofthepage,hiseyeswidened.

HereturnedthelettertothePrincewithascowl.“IwasnotawaretheRomanhadseenthatletter.”

ThePrincefoldedthepapercarefullyandplaceditbackinhispocket.

Cato began drumming his fingers against the armrest of his throne. “I did not know you were his

son.”

“IamtheRoman’sson,andasyouhaveread,Iambelovedofmyfather.Iwanttoseehim.”

Thelieutenant’shandswenttohisknees.Hisknuckleswhitened.“Icannotpromiseanaudience.The

decisionrestswiththeking.”

“Just send word to the king that his son is here. I shall return to the rooms you’ve generously

providedandawaithisresponse.”

Catoscowled,adjustinghispurpletogaonceagain.“It’spossiblethekingwillrefuseyourrequest.”

“No,hewon’t,”thePrince’svoicerumbled.“AndCato,ifheistrulywise,willseethatIhavemy

audience.”

“Andifforsomereasonthekingrefuses?”

The Prince angled his head, his eyes threatening. “The king won’t refuse me. I know this. You,

LieutenantCato,areadifferentmatter.Butyoumustknownowthatitwouldbefollytoopposeme.

“SomeoneinterceptedyourmissiveanddeliveredittotheRomanbeforehandingittomylieutenant.

You were unaware of this fact until you read his words. Perhaps the Roman doesn’t have as much
confidenceinyouasyoubelieve.”

Catosputteredsomethinginprotest.

ThePrinceinterruptedhim.“Ihavenoquarrelwithyou,atleastnotyet.MyconcernisforFlorence.

Oncemyaudienceisconcluded,Ishallreturntomycity,andyoushallhavetodealwithapalacefullof
the Roman’s spies. But if I don’t have my audience today, you and I will be having a very different
conversation.”

ThePrincegavethelieutenantahardlookbeforewithdrawing,leavingCatoseateduneasilyonhis

purloinedthrone.

ChapterTwenty-Two

P

ERHAPS

I

T

W

AS

C

ATO

. Perhaps it was the Roman. The Prince was kept waiting by someone until after

sunset.OnlythendidGaiusappear,announcingthattheking,inhisinfinitebeneficence,hadgrantedthe
Princeaprivateaudience.

ThePrincefollowedthecaptaintothethroneroomoccupiedbythelieutenant,whohadchangedout

ofhisimperialrobesintoawhitetoga.CatojoinedGaiusandthePrinceastheyventuredthroughaseries
of passages until they came to an immense metal door, which was flanked by two sets of Praetorian
guards,wieldingspears.

“ThePrinceofFlorencetoseehisexcellency.”CatonoddedinWilliam’sdirection.

OneoftheguardsopenedthedoorwhileanotherescortedCato,Gaius,andthePrinceinside.

TheRoman’sthroneroomwassmallerthantheroomoccupiedbyCato,butfarmoreelaborate.The

floor was covered with mosaic tile, and the walls and ceiling decorated with elaborate frescoes. The
frescoes appeared to depict ancient Rome, populated as they were by men in togas and classical
architecture. But on closer inspection, each scene included the same handsome, dark-haired figure,
dressedinimperialpurple.

Many of the images praised his exploits and his taste for young, beautiful men. William’s own

transformation was featured in one of the panels to the right of the door, complete with his likeness
dressedintherobesofaDominican.

ThePrinceglancedatitandlookedelsewhere.

“ThePrinceofFlorence,yourexcellency.”CatoaddressedtheRomaninLatin,bowingdeeply.

Theroomitselfwascompletelydark,withtheexceptionoftwopillarsofflamethatflankedashort

goldstaircaseascendingtoanornatethrone.

Thefigurewhosatonthethronewasrobedinpurple,hisheadwreathedwithgoldlaurelleaves.His

eyeswereclosed,andhesatperfectlystill,likeastatue.

“Youaredismissed.”TheRoman’svoicewaslow,hisaccentancient.

Catobowed.“IfImay,yourexcellency,Ithinkthat—”

“Now.”TheRoman’svoicedeepened,butstill,hedidnotopenhiseyes.

Catoscurriedtothedoor,stillfacingthethrone,andexitedwithGaius.

The Roman pointed a pale finger at the Praetorians, who lifted their spears in salute and departed

throughthedoor,closingitbehindthem.

Williamwentdownononekneebeforethethrone.ItwasonlythenthattheRomanopenedhiseyes.

Inappearance,hewashandsome,withdarkhairclippedclosetohisheadanddark,fieryeyes.His

nose was long and prominent, his cheekbones high, his jaw square. If one hadn’t known he was a
vampyre,onemighthavemarkedhisageataboutthirty.

“Myson.”TheRomanadjustedhistogainordertobarehisrightarm.

Williamclimbedthestepstothethrone.Thetwovampyresclaspedarms.

TheRomanliftedWilliam’schinandkissedhim.

“Father,”Williamwhispered.

TheRomanreleasedhisarm.“Iwasnotexpectingyou.”

“Iapologize.”Williamdescendedthestepstostandbetweenthepillarsofflame.“Ishouldhavesent

wordofmyvisit.”

“Noticeisnotrequired.Notbyyou.”TheRomangazedathimshrewdly.“ButIperceivethisisnota

familialvisit.”

“I’m afraid not. My visit concerns the Curia.” William withdrew a copy of the letter Father

Kavanaughhadwrittentohim.Hehelditout.

TheRomanwaveditaside.“Tellme.”

“For some time the Curia have been watching Florence. Now they are threatening me and have

orderedmetosurrendermypet.”

TheRoman’seyebrowslifted.“TheCuriaconcernedaboutapet?Whatmadnessisthis?”

“Thepetinquestionisadaughterofsortstooneofthepriests.”

TheRomanchuckled.“Ah,yes.TheChurchextolsthevirtueofchastity,butbehindtheirwallsthere

isnosuchpractice.Soyou’vetakenthedaughterofapriest.Thisisnotwithoutprecedent.”

Williamavertedhiseyesandfoldedthelettercarefully,placingitinsidehispocket.

“It is always a pleasure to be in your company, Father. I have stayed away too long. But you are

correct.Thereismore.”

“Proceed.”

William cleared this throat. “The pet is a pretext. I believe the Curia desires to weaken your

authority,andtodoso,theyhavetargetedFlorence.”

TheRomanliftedhisarms.“TheCuriahasdesiredtoweakenmyauthorityforcenturies.Yet,hereI

sit.Thesolutiontoyourproblemisclear:removethepretextandentrenchyourposition.”

William lowered his gaze. “Yes, Father. But if the Curia is successful in this matter, what is to

preventthemfromadditionaldemands?Oranunprovokedattack?”

TheRomanregardedthegoldsignetringofRome,whichheworeonhisrighthand.“Igrewtiredof

pettysquabblesyearsago.Thatiswhymylieutenantoverseessuchmatters.”

“Iapologize,Father.”Williamtriedveryhardnottogiveexpressiontohisagitation.“ButIbelieve

theCuria’stacticistomakeanexampleofFlorence,inordertobringtheotherItalianprincipalitiesto
heel.IftheycantransformFlorenceintoPrague,withoutyourintervention,what’stopreventthemfrom
decimatingtheotherprincipalities?”

“OurenemyhasyettomoveagainstanItaliancitysincewesignedthetreaty.”

Williammadeeyecontactwithhismaker.“LetnotFlorencebethefirst.”

“Whatisyourrecommendation?”

“Iamapproachingmylastcenturies.Father,Iaskthatyouallowmetoserveoutmyfinalyearsas

PrinceofFlorenceandthatyoudefendusagainsttheCuria.”

TheRoman’seyessearchedWilliam’s.

“AreyouaskingasthePrinceofFlorence?Orasmyson?”

William’sfingerscurledintofists.“Yourson,ifnecessary.”

TheRomanfrowned.“Ihavenotseenyouforsometime.Nowyouappear,beggingfavors.”

“Pardon, your excellency. I mean no disrespect.” William appeared contrite. “Florence is a jewel

andonethatmanyofmyneighborscovet.Ihavetraveledlittleduringmytimeasprince.”

TheRomanblinked.“Youareafavoriteofmine;itistrue.Asyousay,Florenceisajewel.Areyou

certainyourtimeisshort?”

“Youmademein1274.Mythousandyearsapproaches.”

The Roman hummed. “Centuries come, centuries go. When one has forever, the marking of time

seemsimmaterial.SinceIhaveescapedthecurseandyouaremyoffspring,perhapsyouwillescapethe
cursealso?”

Williamshookhisheadsadly.“Youarethegreatexception,Father.”

TheRomanhummedagain,hisbrowfurrowed.

Atlength,hisexpressionbrightened.“IhadforgottenhowmuchIenjoyyourcompany.”

“AsIenjoyyours.”Williambowed.

“Whatwerewediscussing?”

William’sbrowfurrowed.“WewerediscussingtheCuria.”

“WhatabouttheCuria?”

“TheCuriaislookingforanoccasiontoattackFlorence,Father.Theyaredemandingmypet.”

“A ridiculous demand.” The Roman smiled. “Promise you will visit your father more than once

everyfewcenturies.”

“Ipromise,”thePrincevowedquickly.

“Good.IseenoreasonforyoutoacquiescetotheCuria’scommands.Youareaprinceandundermy

authority. You may decline their request for your pet, but do so with prudence. There is no need to
antagonizethemunnecessarily.”TheRomanexposedhisteeth.“Iadmityou’vemademecurious.Tellme,
isyourpetbeautiful?Ishouldliketoseeit.”

Inanunguardedinstant,William’seyesgrewwide.Hedroppedhisgazetothestonesathisfeet.“I

serveyou,Father.OfcourseIcouldbringmypettoyou.ButIdoubtyouwouldfindherappealing.”

“Her?Ah,yes.Iforgot.”TheRomanexaminedWilliam’sbowedhead.“Itakeityouhaveafondness

forthisone.”

“I’vehadherbutashortwhile.”

“I wonder.” The Roman adjusted the signet ring on his hand. “I have given you long life, power,

wealth,andthejewelthatisFlorence.AndIhaveneveraskedanythinginreturn,exceptforloyalty.You
areloyaltome,areyounot?”

Williamliftedhisgaze.“Withoutquestion.”

“Andyouservemeinallthings?”

“Allthings,yourexcellency.”

TheRomanleanedforwardinhisthrone.“Thengivemeyourpet.”

TheLatinwordsechoedinthethroneroom.

Theroomfellsilent.

Despitehisbestefforts,William’sheartbeatirregularly.

“IncomparisontoeverythingIhavegivenyou,therequestforyourpetisverysmall.”TheRoman’s

nostrilsflared,buthisbodyremainedstill.

“Yes,Father.”Williamhidhisfacebybowing.

“Excellent.”TheRomanleanedbackinhischair.“Catotellsmeyourpetishere,inthepalace,along

withitssister.Iwantthemboth.”

William’s mind raced as he calculated how he could smuggle Raven out of the palace before the

Romanrealizedthedeception.Itwouldbetooriskytotrytoescapewithbothwomen.He’dhavetoleave
Carabehind.

Hisinnardstwisted.

Williamgenuflectedandbackedtowardthedoor,hopingtheRomancouldn’tscenthisanxiety.

Heopenedthedoor,andthePraetorianguardssnappedtoattentionontheotherside.

“William,”theRoman’svoiceechoedinthehall.

ThePrinceturned,eversoslowly.

“Youmayclosethedoor.”ThekingmotionedtoWilliamtoapproachthethroneonceagain.

Confused,hedidashewasordered,thenstoppedbeforethestepsandknelt.

The Roman’s gaze flickered to William’s hands before moving to his eyes. “I perceive strength in

yourattachmenttome,PrinceofFlorence.ButIalsoperceiveweakness.Howmuchdoyouvalueyour
pet?”

“Sheisbutapleasantdiversion,Father.”

TheRomanclosedhiseyes.

William’s entire body tensed. He could almost feel his bones bending beneath the strain of his

muscles.

“Kissme,myson.”TheRomanopenedhiseyes.

Williamclimbedthestepsandkissedhismaker.

TheRomanstrokedhishead,runninghisfingersthroughtheshort,fairhair.

“Hereismybelovedson,”hewhispered.“Whowouldneverbetrayme.”

HereleasedWilliamwithashortcaress,andthePrincewithdrewdownthesteps.

“IshallspeaktoCatoaboutourconversation.YouarefreetodenytheCuria’srequestandtoreturn

withyourpettoFlorence.”

“Thankyou,Father.”Williamkneltontheground,reliefcoursingoverhim.

“YoumayinformtheCuriathatyouconsultedme,andIagreedwithyourdecision.”

Atthis,Williamliftedhishead.

TheRomanwasstaringatthefrescoofWilliam’stransformation.“Ihaveseenmuchsincethesecond

century.Kingdomsriseandfall;thestrengthofourenemiesgrowsandwanes.Buttheycannotdestroyme,
andthistheyknow.”

TheRoman’sgazesharpenedasitfixedonhisson.“Perhapsyouwillescapethecurse.Perhapsnot.

Onlytimewilltell.

“I have granted you this favor. You have pledged unfailing service. In the years you have left, I

demandabsoluteobedience.”

“Yes,Father.”

“Good.SendCatotome.”

Williambowedandretreatedtothedoor,watchingastheRomanglancedatthefrescoonceagain

beforeclosinghiseyes.

ChapterTwenty-Three

W

ILLIAM

W

AS

T

REMENDOUSLY

D

ISQUIETED

.

Hehadtoresisttheurgetorunthroughthepalacecorridors,pullRavenintohisarms,andflee.But

theeyesoftheRomanwereuponhim,hewascertain,soheforcedhimselftofollowGaiusatamoderate
paceasthecaptainledhimbacktotheroomwhereRavenwaited.

He’daccomplishedhisgoal.He’dsecuredthesupportofthemostpowerfulvampyreinItaly,ifnot

theworld.Butundoubtedly,ithadcosthim.TheRomanmightbewearyofpubliclife,buthewasnofool.
He’dnoticedWilliam’sattachmenttohispet.ThesoonerhewasabletoremoveRavenfromthepalace,
thebetter.

“Preparetodepart.”Williambarkedtohissoldiers,sparingthemnotaglanceashecrossedtothe

adjoiningroom.

Heopenedthedoorandnotedthetwosisterscurleduptogetherononeofthecouches,asleep.

Heclosedthedoorandstoodoverthem,likeadarkangel.

Hebarelyrememberedhisownsiblings,andhecouldn’timaginerestingwiththem.He’dlovedhis

family,especiallyhissistersandhismother.Butfamilylifeinthethirteenthcenturyunderthetyrannyof
hisfatherhadnotbeenwarmorcomfortable.

ThebondbetweenRavenandCarawasnotsomethingheunderstood.

HeplacedalighthandonRaven’shead.“Cassita.”

Whenshedidn’tstir,hestrokedherhairgently.“Cassita.”

Ravencameawakewithastart.“What?Whatisit?”

Shepulledawayfromherslumberingsiblingandsatup.Caradidn’tmove.

“The Roman has taken our side.” William caressed Raven’s face. “We must contact your priest as

soonaspossibleandmakearrangementstodeliverCaratohim.”

“Willshebesafe?”RaveneyedCarawithconcern.

“Much as it pains me to say it, she is more vulnerable to vampyres than to the Curia. The Curia

won’tkillher.”William’sexpressionhardened.“YourpriestwillbeangrythatIrefusetogiveyouup.He
maytrytotakeyoubyforce.Wemustbeprepared.”

“I’mnotworriedaboutmyself;I’mworriedabouther,”Ravenreplied.“Shewillhavetodealwith

losingDan.Isupposeforgettingaboutvampyreswillbeamercy.”

“The Curia are not known for their mercy,” William sniped. “But she is a victim to them, which

meanstheywillprotecther.

“Wemustgo.ThesoonertheyknowwehavetheRoman’ssupport,thebetter.”

“Ihavemycellphone.”Ravenretrieveditfromthepocketofherjeans.“I’llcallFather.ButIwant

youtoremovethemindcontrolfromCarafirst.”

“No.”

“William.”

Hecrossedhisarmsoverhischest.“Ishallremovethemindcontrolwhenshejoinsyourpriest,but

notamomentbefore.It’stoodangerous.”

Raven’sgazedroppedtohisarms,tothemusclesthatcontractedashisbodytensed.

“IthoughttheRomanagreedtohelpus.”

“Hedid.”

Shefrowned.“Thenwhyarewestillindanger?”

Asifbyinstinct,Williamglancedaroundtheroom.Butheandthewomenwerealone.

“TheRomanseemstohavetakenaninterestinmypet.Heaskedtomeetyouandyoursister.”

Ravenshiftedbackwardonthecouch.“Idon’twanttomeethim.”

“No,youdonot.”Williampassedahandoverhismouthinagitation.

“Willhekeepushere?”

“Atthemoment,wearefreetoleave.ButweshouldarrangetodeliverCaratoyourpriestassoon

aspossible.”

Ravenstood.Sheplacedherhandatthebackofhisneck,drawinghisforeheaddowntomeethers.

“Thankyou.”

Hedidn’trespond.

“Iloveyou,”shepressed.

“Jet’aim.”Hewrappedhisarmsaroundher,pullingheragainsthisbody.

“Thankyouforprotectingus.”Shekissedthecornersofhismouthbeforecenteringherlipsonhis.“I

trustyou.”

“Youaretheonlytrustthatexistsinmyworld.”Hespokeagainsthermouth.“Itrustnooneelse.”

Hekissedherdeeply,anglinghishead.Justasquickly,hereleasedher,kissingherforehead.“We

needtocontactyourpriest.”

“Okay.”Sheliftedhercellphone,tookadeepbreath,anddialedanumber.

Thepriestansweredonthethirdring.“Raven?”

“Father?I’minRomewithCara.Weneedtoseeyou.”

ThejourneyfromthePalatineHilltotheVaticanwasnotalongone,onlyaboutfivekilometers.Gaius
and a few of his soldiers accompanied the Florentines up Via della Conciliazione toward the border
betweenItalyandVaticanCity.Beyondthispointnovampyredaredgo,astheentirecitystatewasbuilt
onholyground.

Withinthiswalledenclave,theCuriatrained,plotted,andconducteditsbusinessinsecret,protected

bythepublicfaceoftheVatican.

Itwasafewhoursbeforesunrise,andthecityofRomeremainedshroudedindarkness.Thegreat

Basilica of St. Peter shone like a beacon, while the piazza in front of it was only dimly illuminated.
Unfortunatelyforthevampyresthatapproachedonfoot,theaccompanyingshadowswerenotlargeenough
toconcealthem.

ThePrincesniffedtheair,hisgazedrawntotherooftopsofthebuildingsthatroseoneithersideof

thestreet.

“Curia,”hewhispered,pointingwithhischinattheirunseenenemies.

Inreaction,Gaiusbarked,“Lifthighthestandard.”

ThestandardbearerraisedtheflagoftheRoman,whichfeaturedaringoflaurelleavesonablack

background.Ashe-wolfstoodinthecenterofthering.

Gaius addressed the Prince. “Our presence should guarantee your safety. But my orders are not to

engage,unlessattacked.”

“Sonoted.”ThePrinceextendedhisarminfriendship,andGaiusclaspedit,handtoelbow.

The captain and his soldiers fell back, standing by one of the buildings while the Florentines

marchedtowardVaticanCity.

Aboutonehundredmetersfromtheborder,thePrincecommandedhissoldierstohalt,armsatthe

ready.Theywereexposedinthisposition,buthewasdeterminedtoshowstrength.

He turned to stare at the standard of the Roman flying nearby, knowing his every move was being

watched.

Gaiussalutedinreturn.

ThePrincetookRavenandCarabythehand,oneoneachside,andbegantowalktowardtheborder.

“Whateverhappens,don’tcrosstheline,”hewhisperedtoRaven.“Icannottreadonholyground.”

Raven’seyebrowslifted,forsheknewhislaststatementtobealie.Butshenodded.

He stopped short of the border, occupying a space where the light was dim. He released the

women’shandsandtookCarabytheshoulders.Fixinghiseyesonhers,hespoke.“Cara,Ireleaseyou.
Yourmindisyourownagain.”

The young woman blinked, her blue eyes suddenly focusing on his face. “What? What are you

doing?”

“Cara.”RavenpulledherawayfromWilliam.“We’reheretoseeFatherKavanaugh.”

“Good.” Cara rubbed her eyes and yawned. “I can’t believe we got here so quickly. I must have

fallenasleep.”

Thesoundofbootsstrikingcobblestonespoundedinthedistance.

Acenturyofsoldiersdressedinblackuniformsenteredthepiazzafromtheleftsideofthebasilica.

Thesoldiersworecrucifixesaroundtheirnecksandcarriedswords.

“Blackrobes,”thePrincespat.

Carasnorted.“What’swiththearmy?IthoughttheChurchwaspacifist.”

“Perhapsyoushouldaskyourpriestaboutthat.”ThePrince’svoicewascold.

“Whatever.”Cararolledhereyes.

Thesoldiersmarchedtowardtheborderandspreadthemselvesout,onehundredmetersinsidethe

line.Alonefigureemerged,walkinginthedirectionoftheFlorentines.

Caratuggedonhersister’shand.“There’sFather.Let’sgo.”

“Approachslowly,”thePrincecommanded.

RavenlimpedwithCaratowardtheborder,whilethePrincehoveredbehindthem.Afewfeetfrom

theline,Ravenstopped.“I’mgoingbacktoFlorencewithWilliam.Yougoahead.”

“What?”Cara’svoicegrewshrill.“Youhavetocomewithme.WehavetofindDan!”

“Fatherwillhelpyou.Ican’tleaveWilliam.”Shepulledhersisterintoahugandkissedhercheek.

“I’llseeyousoon.”

“Youhavetocomewithme,”Carawailed.“Ineedyou.”

Ravenlookedtowardthepriest,whostoodfiftymetersfromtheline.“Fatherwillhelpyou.”

“Youcan’tleaveme.”CaragrabbedRaven’sarmandpulledherclosertotheborder.

WilliamclungtoRaven’sside,hishandghostingoverherelbow.

Justbeforetheycrossedtheline,Ravenplantedherfeet.“ThisisasfarasIgo.”

“Don’tyoucareaboutDan?Don’tyoucareaboutme?IcameallthewayfromFlorida.Youcan’t

ditchmeforyourboyfriend.”Carasteppednimblyacrossthelineformedbyabandofwhitebetweenthe
cobblestones.“Comeon.”

FatherKavanaughstrodetoCara’ssideandembracedherassixCuriasoldiersclosedranksbehind

them.

BehindRavenandthePrince,theFlorentinesclosedranksaswell.

Fathermovedtotheborderandextendedhishand.“Come,Raven.”

“No.”Ravenglared.“Iexplainedonthephonewhatwasgoingtohappen.Ineedyoutolookafter

Cara,butI’mnotcoming.”

Nexttoher,thePrincegrowled.“Sheismypet.Iwillnotsurrenderher.TheRomansupportsthis

decision.”

Eversocarefully,thePrinceturnedhisheadtolookattheRomanguard.

Thepriestfollowedhisgaze.

Atthatmoment,afinemistappeared,liftingasiffrombeneaththecitystreets.Themistrolleddown

theroadthatledtoVaticanCityandbegantoapproachtheborder.

“Isthisyourdoing?”ThepriestaddressedthePrince,pointingtothefog.

ThePrinceremainedimpassive.

“Raven.”Fatherturnedhisattentionbacktoher.“Comehere,mychild.”

She grasped William’s elbow, leaning on him as she took the weight off her injured leg. She

switched to Italian. “Maximilian killed Dan. I saw it happen. Cara doesn’t believe me, and when she
realizeswhat’shappened,she’llbedevastated.”

“Maximilianhasbeendealtwith,”thePrinceinterjected,alsoinItalian.

FatherglancedatCara,whostoodathisside,watching.HespoketoRaveninItalian.“Wehavethe

body.Hewillbepreparedforburialoncetheautopsyiscomplete.Comewithmenowbeforesomething
elsehappens.”

“No,”Ravenrepeated.

Themisthadgrownthick,standingastallasWilliamandcuttingtheFlorentinesofffromtheRoman

guardthatstoodnearby.ButitalsoshieldedthemfromtheCuriasnipers.

Surprisingly,thefogtraveledasfarasWilliamandRaven’sbacks,butdidnotventuretotheborder

ofVaticanCity.

Thepriestwithdrewaglassvialfromhispocketandhelditaloft.HefixedhiseyesonthePrince’s

evenasthefogswirledbehindhim.“Youhavenopowerhere.Icommandyoutoreleaseher.”

ThePrincesnarledandbaredhisteeth,butdidnotretreat.

“Raven?What’shappening?”Caratookafewstepsinhersister’sdirection.

FatherKavanaughgesturedtotwooftheblackrobes,andtheymarchedforward.Theytookholdof

Cara’sarmsandbegantoescorthertowardthebasilica.

“Letmego!”Cara’svoiceliftedintoapanickedcry.“Raven,helpme.”

“Whatareyoudoing?”Raven’sanguishwasdirectedatthepriest.“Stopthem!Don’tletthemhurt

her.”

“Comenow.”Fatherleanedacrosstheline.

William’sarmsnakedaroundRaven’swaist,hismouthfindingherear.“It’satrap.”

“Raven!Help!”Carashouted.

William tightened his grasp and continued to whisper, “If you follow her, I shall follow you. And

they’llkillme.”

“Thendosomething,”shepleaded.

ThePrince’sgrayeyesswungtothewhite-hairedmanwhostoodinfrontofthem.“Wecametoyou

inpeace.Wesurrenderedthehumanatyourrequest.ThisishowtheCuriatreatstheircharges?”

“Give me Raven, and we will have peace.” Father leaned farther across the line, his hand mere

inchesfromhers.“Andsendyourcursedfogaway.”

“Itisn’tmine,”thePrinceremarkedgrimly,lookingthepriestsquarelyintheeye.

Raven watched as the soldiers continued to drag her sister toward the basilica. She saw Cara

struggle,hershoutsandscreamsechoingacrossthepiazza.

“Itrustedyou!”ShepushedFatherKavanaugh’schest.“Lethergo.Rightnow!”

Thepriestgrabbedherarmandbegantopull.

Williamhadherbythewaist.Heplantedhisfeet.

Atugofwarensued,withRaven’sbodyformingtherope.

ThepriestbeganrecitingwordsinLatin,wavingtherelicheheldinhisotherhand.

Both Curia and Florentine soldiers approached, keeping a healthy distance but wielding their

weapons.ThefogcontinuedtoswirlaroundtheFlorentines.

“Letgo,”Ravenwhispered,hereyesmovingtothepriest’s.“I’mnotcomingwithyou.Ifanything

happenstoCara,you’llregretit.”

FatherKavanaughignoredher,hisgazefocusedonthePrinceandtherelic’sobviouslackofeffect.

It was at that moment, quite by chance, that the priest lowered his eyes and saw William’s foot

restingovertheline.

ChapterTwenty-Four

I

N

A M

OVE

S

O

Q

UICK

it could not be detected by human eyes, the Prince drew his foot back into the

surroundingfog.

HepriedRaven’sarmfromthepriest’sgrasp,hisbodyablur,andshuffledherbehindhim.

FatherKavanaughfroze.

“You asked for the lives of two humans.” The Prince glanced behind the priest to see Cara being

takenupthestairsthatledtothemassivedoorsofthebasilica.“Ideliveredoneofthemtoyou,unharmed
andunspoiled.Theotherbelongstome.”

“Impossible,”thepriestwhispered,fearcausinghisfacetopalebeneathhiswhitebeard.

“TheRomansupportsme,thePrinceofFlorence,andtheassertionofmyrighttokeepthepetofmy

choice. You have our answer.” The Prince lifted Raven into his arms and disappeared into the fog, the
Florentinesfollowinghardonhisheels.

FatherKavanaughseemedtoshakehimselfoutofhisreverie.“Raven!Raven!”

ThePrinceandhissoldiersflewinthedirectionoftheTiber,thefogaccompanyingthem.Oncethey

reachedtheriver’sedge,thefoglifted.Theyturnednorthandracedoutofthecity.

ChapterTwenty-Five

F

ATHER

J

ACK

K

AVANAUGH

pacedthehallwayoutsidetheSuperiorGeneral’sofficeintheVatican,praying

nervously.

Assoonashe’dleftthepiazza,theheadoftheCuriahadsummonedhim.He’dbarelyhadtimeto

issue instructions to the soldiers guarding Cara. She’d been transferred to the infirmary, where medical
officerswouldexamineherforsignsoftrauma.

Jackwasfearfulofwhatthey’dfind.

HeshouldhavebeengratefulthattheGeneralhadaffordedhimaface-to-facemeeting.TheGeneral

keptapunishingschedulethatwasfilledwithintelligencebriefingsandassembliesfromdawnuntilwell
intotheevening.Herarely,ifever,metwithanyoneindividually,otherthanthoseinthehighestpositions
insidetheVatican.Jackwasnotoneofthem.

However,nothinglikegratitudeliftedfromhisheart,onlywhisperedsupplications.Hewasworried

aboutRavenandalreadyformulatingarescueplan.HesimplyneededtheGeneral’spermission.

ThedoortotheGeneral’sofficeswunginward.

“Ave.”TheGeneral’ssecretary,ahigh-rankingCuriamember,calledoutinLatin.

“Maria,”Jackresponded,acceptingtheinvitationtoenter.

The room was simple and unadorned, save for a large medieval crucifix hung on a side wall.

BeneathitwasabenchonwhichtheGeneralcouldkneelandpray,eyesliftedtothesavior.

ThesecretaryusheredJackinsideandtowardanemptychairinfrontoftheGeneral’smassivedesk.

The General, dressed in black robes, was seated behind the desk, which was piled high with

paperworkandfiles.HewasaSpaniard,apriestinhissixtieswhohadworkedinintelligenceformost
ofhiscareerbeforebeingelevatedtothepositionofSuperiorGeneralthreeyearsbefore.

Hepeeredathissecretaryovertherimsofhisspectacles.

Thesecretarybowedandexitedthroughasidedoor.

“FatherKavanaugh,”theGeneraladdressedhim,hisSpanishaccentthickeningontheEnglishwords.

“Youreminence.”

The General extended his hand, and Jack took it. “You came to us from America. I trust you are

findingyourway.”

Jackshiftedinhischair.“Iam,thankyou.”

“Good.”TheGeneralsatback.“Describewhathappenedinthepiazza.”

JackswitchedtoItalian,thelanguageoftheVatican.“Twoyoungwomen,whoIhaveknownsince

childhood,havefallenundertheinfluenceofthePrinceofFlorence.

“TheyoungerwomantraveledtoFlorencewithherfiancéinordertopersuadehersistertocometo

mehere.ThesisteristhePrince’scurrentpet.Tragically,thefiancéwasmurderedbyoneofthePrince’s
councilmembers.Forsomereason,thePrincehimselfbroughtthewomentoRomeyesterday.”

“Notforsomereason,”theGeneralinterjected.

“Pardon?”Jack’seyebrowsshotup.

“ThePrincebroughtthewomeninresponsetoyourletter.”TheGenerallookedpointedlyataclosed

fileinfrontofhim.

Jacktappedhisfootinagitation.“Yes.”

“IknowtheDirectorofIntelligencehasalreadyspokentoyou,myson.Imuststressthatyouraction

hasplacedanumberofouroperationsatrisk.”

Jackwasstricken.“Forgiveme.Ididn’tknow.”

TheGeneral’sdarkeyesmethis.“Youareforgiven,butforgivenessisnotlicense.”

“Yes,youreminence.”

TheGeneral’sexpressiongrewlesssevere.“MyintelligenceofficersreportthatthePrincevisited

theRomanandsoughthiscounselbeforeappearinghere.ThePrincesurrenderedtheyoungersistertoyou
butrefusedtoturnoverhispet,despiteyourinsistence.”

“That’strue.HeclaimedtohavetheRoman’ssupport.”

“Doyoubelievehim?”TheGeneral’stonewasrelaxed.Perhapstoorelaxed.

“The Roman’s standard bearer and a small group of soldiers stood in plain view, watching. Their

presenceseemstoindicateanalliance.”

“WeareskepticalofthePrince’sclaim.There’sbeennodirectcommunicationfromtheRoman.The

presence of soldiers and a standard indicate nothing. They could be Florentines masquerading as
Romans.”

Jackwipedhispalmsonhistrousers,forhewasbeginningtosweat.“Astrangefogappeared,but

didnotcrosstheborder.ThePrincedeclareditwasnotofhisdoing.WhoelsebuttheRomancouldhave
donesuchathing?”

“There are multiple forces of darkness.” The General seemed unaffected by Jack’s insinuation.

“Whatofthewomansurrenderedtoyou?”

“Sheisbeingexaminedbythemedicalofficers.”

“Yes,Iknow.Howdidsheappear?”

“She appeared healthy. She didn’t know her fiancé was dead, which means she’s probably been

undermindcontrol.”

“Once she’s healed of any injuries, her memories will be adjusted. You are to escort her and the

bodyofherfiancétoAmerica.Theintelligenceofficeisensuringthatanapprovedreportisreleasedto
themediabythepolice.”

“Yes,youreminence.”Jack’shandwenttohisRomancollar,whichseemedtobesuffocatinghim.

“Whatabouttheothersister?”

“SheandthePrincehaveleftRome.Wearetrackingtheirmovements.”

“She’sindanger.”Jackrummagedinhispocketandclosedonaglassvial.“Ihaveinmypossession

arelicofSt.TeresaofAvila.Icarrieditwithmeintothepiazza,butitseemedtohavenoeffectonthe
Prince.”Hepaused,asiffumblingforwords.“ThePrincelaidhishandonmyarminordertofreehis
pet.Healsosetfootonholyground.”

TheGeneralscowled.“Impossible.”

Jack withdrew the relic and placed it on the General’s desk. “With respect, your eminence, I saw

withmyowneyes.ThePrince’sfootcrossedtheborder.”

TheGeneralsatbackinhischair.“Thisgroundisholy.Vampyresandotherdemonscannotpass.”

“IknowwhatIsaw.”Jackpointedtotherelic.“Heshouldnothavebeenabletotouchme;notwith

thebloodofSt.Teresainhisface.”

TheGeneral’seyesfocusedontherelic.“Intelligenceofficersmonitorthepiazzaconstantly.Noone

sawthePrincesetfootinVaticanCity.”

“Thefog,”Jacksputtered.“Howcouldtheyhaveseenanything?”

“Iviewedthevideomyself.”

“Then you must believe what I say.” Jack stood, placing his hands on top of the desk, next to the

relic.

TheGeneral’sgazeshiftedtothecrucifixandthenbacktotheJesuit.“Beseated,Father.”

Jackreplacedtherelicinhispocketandreturnedtohischair.

TheGeneralremovedhisspectaclesandrubbedhiseyes.Inthatmoment,helookedagedandworn

and very, very tired. “In science, as in life, there are anomalies. Sometimes an anomaly is merely an
illusion,afaultwiththeobserver.

“Sometimes an anomaly recurs. It’s the recurrence that challenges a scientist to re-examine his

theory.

“TheRomanappearstobeananomaly.Hecontinuestooutlivehisthousand-yearlifespan.Andwe

havenoideawhy.”

Jackstaredinshock.“Howisthatpossible?”

TheGeneralpursedhislips.“Webattlenotagainstfleshandblood.

“God enabled our forefathers to restrict the lifespan of vampyres. Through earnest prayers and

throughgrace,judgmentwaspassedonourenemies,andtheyceasedbeingeverlasting.Fromthatmoment
on, every vampyre has slowly gone mad as he or she approaches the thousandth year, and then they
eventuallyexpire.TheRomanisanexception.

“Accordingtotherecords,hewasturnedinthesecondcentury.Bythetimeofthejudgment,hewas

alreadyathousandyearsold.”

“Isthatwhyheescapeddeath?”

TheGeneralreplacedhisspectaclesonhisface.“Aninterestinghypothesis.Butlegionsofvampyres

hisageorolderwerestruckdownimmediately.

“Forcenturieswehavewaited,convincedhewouldsuccumbtomadness.Hehastakenlittleinterest

in affairs of state, choosing to delegate much to his lieutenant. We interpreted that as a positive sign. If
what the Florentine says is true, the Roman’s renewed interest in his principality is cause for concern.
MoretroublingisthepossibilitythattheRoman’sanomalyhasrecurredinthePrince.”

“ButGeneral,myunderstandingisthatthePrinceiswellwithinhisthousandyears.”

“Yes,butif—asyousay—hewasresistanttoyourrelicandabletotreadonholyground,wehave

anotherpowerfulanomalytoworryabout.Ananomalythatismuchmoreworrisomegiventhefactthatthe
Romanishismaker.”

Jackclosedhiseyesmomentarily.“Iwasnotawareofthat.”

“Neither were we. The connection between the two was concealed from us. But we know it now.

ShouldtheRomanandtheFlorentinejointogetherandgenerateanewraceofanomalies…”TheGeneral
closedhismouth.

“Theywoulddestroyus.”

TheGeneralshookhisheadvigorously.“WehaveGodonourside.Icannotbelievehewouldhave

protectedandpreservedusthislongonlytohandusovertoourenemies.Butwemustdiscoverprecisely
whattheanomaliesare,whopossessesthem,andhowwecandefendourselvesagainstthembeforewe
engageinarmedconflict.”

“Forgive me.” Jack looked down at the floor. “When I wrote to the Prince, I did not foresee the

consequences.”

“Fornow,wemustwatchFlorencecarefully.Wemustdiscovermoreaboutthenatureandscopeof

the Roman’s support. We must pray they don’t form an army.” The General foisted a severe look in the
Jesuit’s direction. “You must abandon your pursuit of the second woman. The Prince has her. You must
acceptthat.”

FatherJackleanedforward.“Istherenowaytosaveher?”

“Shemadeherchoicewhenshegaveherselftohim.Perhapshewilltireofher.Fornow,youmust

leavehertoherchoice.”

TheGeneralliftedhishandandmadethesignofthecross,murmuringinLatin.

“Youmayspeaktothewomanyourescuedandfindoutwhatsheknows.Youaretoaccompanyher

toAmericaassoonasshehasbeenhealed.Youmayreturnhereafterward.”

“Yes,youreminence.”FatherKavanaugh’sshouldersslumpedashebowedandtookhisleave.

ChapterTwenty-Six

I

SPETTOR

B

ATELLI

S

TARED

at a series of blood droplets that led from Via Ghibellina into an alley. The

bloodwasold,notfresh,andseemedtoformatrailthatendedinfrontofarustymetaldoor.

Theinspectorscowledinthemorningsun,searchingforameansofopeningthedoor,buttherewas

none.Hecurvedhisfingersaroundtheedge,tryingtopryitopen.

Hehadnoideawhatwasbehindthedoor.Ithadtakensometimetofollowuponthemysterioustext

he’d been sent. No one in the carabinieri seemed to know anything about an underground club on Via
Ghibellina.He’dsearchedinvainfortwodays.

Nowhe’dfoundblood.

Batelli removed his cell phone from his pocket and called his supervisor. Perhaps the blood had

nothingtodowithRavenWoodandWilliamYork.Perhapsithadeverythingtodowiththem.

As Batelli explained what he’d found, he was completely unaware of the vampyre watching him

throughasecuritycamera.

ChapterTwenty-Seven

R

AVEN

S

LEPT

L

IKE

T

HE

D

EAD

.Therereallywasnootherdescriptionforit.

WilliamlefthersideforafewhourstocheckonhisprincipalityandmeetwithGregor,thenewly

mintedheadofsecurity.

IspettorBatelli’spresenceoutsideTeatrohadcausedGregoragooddealofanxiety,especiallysince

he’dwitnessedtheexecutionoftwoheadsofsecurityinthepastfewyears.

But the Prince reacted to the news calmly, instructing Gregor to order their contacts within

Florence’s police force to protect the secrecy of Teatro and bring Batelli to heel. The Prince then
registeredhisdispleasureatthehuntingparty’sinabilitytolocateanddestroyIbarra.

Gregor promised to double the party’s numbers, privately planning to use some of his almost non-

existentlibertytohuntthetraitorpersonally.ThePrinceindicatedGregor’ssolutiontobesatisfactory,for
themoment.

ThesunwasbeginningtosetasWilliamreturnedtothevilla.Hedrewthecurtainsinhisbedroom

andthrewopenthebalconydoors,lettinginarefreshingbreeze.

Ravenstirred.

Williamsatatherside,watching.Shelookedsoyoung,sobeautiful,hercheeksrosywithsleepand

herlong,blackhairalluringlymussed.

Hepushedalockbackfromherfaceandhergreeneyesopened.

“Goodevening,”hisrichvoicerumbled.Hebentdowntotasteherlips.“Didyourestwell?”

“Yes,butI’mstilltired.Andsore.”Shewincedassheextendedherlegsunderthecovers.

“Icanfixthat.”

Shesmiledcrookedly.“Ijustneedahotbath.”

Williampulledbackthecoversandmovedoverher.Herbodywassoftandpliablebeneathhis.“I

haveanalternative.”

Hecuppedherfacewithbothhandsandkissedher,lightlyatfirst,andthenmoreurgently.

Ravenreturnedhisembrace,hertongueenteringhismouth.

TheykisseduntilWilliam’slipstrailedtoherneck.Hegrazedthefleshwithhisteeth.

Ravenstiffened.“No.”

“Whynot?”Hesuckedherneckwithoutbreakingtheskin.

Herhandsdroppedtohisshoulders.“BecauseI’mfilthy.Andsad.”

“Youaren’tfilthy.”Henuzzledthepathofhercarotidartery.“Yousmelldelicious.”

Shepushedhisshoulders.

William’sbrowfurrowed.“Wearehome.Wearesafe.Weshouldbecelebrating.”

“My sister.” Her whisper was anguished. “I stood there while they carried her away. I shouldn’t

havelefther.”

Williamlookedpuzzled.“Youhadnochoice.”

“Idid,actually.Ichoseyou.”

Williamblinked.“Isthatchoicesoterrible?”

“She’smysister.”

The vampyre prince dropped his mask, but only for a moment. He released her and sat upright,

distancingtheirbodies.“Ididn’trealizeyouregrettedyourdecision.”

“I didn’t say I regret it,” she said quietly. “But being forced to choose between my sister and my

loverwaspainful.EvenmoresobecauseIknewthatifIwentafterher,itwouldmeanyourdestruction.”

William’sfeaturesremainedblank.“I’msorry.Ithoughtyouchosetobewithmeoutoflove,notout

ofyourusualcommitmenttoprotectingpeople.”

Ravenflinched.

ThePrinceavoidedhereyesandstood.“Ishallleaveyoutoyourbath.Goodevening.”

Heturnedhisback.

Sheliftedtoherkneesandreachedforhim.“William.”

Hegloweredatthehandthatgraspedhiselbow.

“Iloveyou,William.Ialsolovemysister.ShecametoFlorenceformeandlosttheloveofherlife.

Canyouimaginehowthatfeels?”

“Yes,Ican.”Hiswordswereclipped.

Shesankbackonthebed.

“IknowyoulostAlicia.I’msosorry.”Ravenreleasedhim.Atearspilledoverherdarklashes.

Williamcursedinthelanguageofhisyouth.

Hereachedoutafingertocatchhertear.“Don’tweep.”

TwomoretearswelledinRaven’seyesanddroppedtohercheeks.

He wiped the wetness away with his thumbs. “From the moment I looked into those great, green

eyes,itwasyou.

“Aliciawasn’ttheloveofmylife,youare.Pleasedon’tregretchoosingme.”William’svoicewasa

painedwhisper.

“Iloveyou,”shemanaged.

“Youaremychoice,mydestiny,myblessing,andmycurse.IfIweretoloseyou,mylifewouldbe

over.”Hekissedherforeheadandsatdown,drawingherintohisarms.“Becauseofyou,lovehasentered
mycursedexistence.Incomparisonwiththegreatfireofmyloveforyou,everythingelseismerelyan
ember.”

Herestedhischinontopofherhead.

“Wedon’thavespieswithintheCuria,butwehaveinformantsinVaticanCity.Iwillinquireabout

your sister.” He tightened his arms around Raven’s body. “If I learn she’s being mistreated, I shall
intervene.Youhavemyword.”

“Thankyou.”Shewipedatherfacewithhersleeve.

“Youaremygreatlove,Cassita.Ihope,withtheRoman’ssupport,wewillhavepeace.”

“Metoo.”

Theysatthereforsomemoments,untilRaven’stearshadsubsidedandherbodyhadrelaxed.

OnlythendidWilliamstand.

“I believe someone was in want of a bath.” He kissed her forehead. “I shall go in search of your

dinner.”

Heexitedtheroomwithalookofconcernonhisface.

Ravenwalkedtothebathroom,herheartheavyandhermindfull.

“Youlooklikearivernymph.”

Raven’seyessnappedopen.

Williamloungedinthedoorwaytothebathroom,hislipsturnedup,hiseyesintentandpredatory.

Sheavertedhergaze,herpalecheeksripening.“Iwasjustabouttotradethebathtubforashower

andwashmyhair.”

“Allowme.”Hestalkedtowardher.

“You’dwashmyhair?”

“Ishalltry.”

“Doyouknowhow?”

Hisbrowcrinkled.“IbelieveIamfamiliarwiththegeneralprocedure.”

Heremovedapitcherfromthebathroomcounterandretrievedshampoofromtheshower.Heplaced

theitemsontheplatforminwhichtheimmensebathtubwasset.

“Pleaseaddmorehotwater.”Hegesturedtothefaucet.

Ravensatupandturnedonthewater.

Williamremovedhisclothes,foldedthemandplacedthemonthevanity.

There was something godlike about his appearance. His face edged from handsome into beautiful

withfinefeaturesandanelegantmouth.Hisbodywasleanandwell-defined,hismusclesproportioned.

His perfection never failed to stun her. Even though she’d spent so many times naked with him,

Ravencouldnothelpbutgazeathiminwonder.

Withoutceremony,heswitchedthewateroffandsteppedintothetubbehindher.Placinghislegson

eithersideofherbody,hecoaxedhertoleanback.

“You’regoingtowashmyhairlikethis?”sheasked.

Hearrangedherlonglocksbehindhershoulders.“Iwanttotouchyou.”

Asifindemonstration,heliftedhisknees,cocooningherbetweenhiships.Hepressedhishandsto

hershouldersandkneadedthemuscleslightlybeforesmoothinghispalmsdownherback.

Sheshivered.

“Addmorehotwater.”Herubbedherarmsupanddown.

“I’mnotcold.Just…excited.”Ravensoundedshy.

Williamsmiled,forherreactionpleasedhim.Hedippedthepitcherintothebathtubandhelditaloft.

“Ready?”

“Yes.”Sheclosedhereyes.

Williamsmoothedherhairdownherback.Slowlyanddeliberately,hepouredthewarmwater,his

fingersfollowing.

Hescratchedatherscalp.“Areyousurethetemperatureisright?Ihavedifficultydiscerningit.”

“It’sperfect,”shehummed.

Hechuckledandcontinuedtowetherhair.

Williamusedbothhandstoapplytheshampooandworkedhisfingersfromherscalptotheendsof

herhairasifitwashissolepurposeinlife.

“Howdoesitfeel?”Hemassagedherscalpusingafirm,circularmotion.

“Heavenly.”

“Womenaremysterious,”hemused.

Shelaughed.“Inwhatway?”

“They’reastudyincontrasts:softandstrong,fierceandgentle.Theycandoeverything,ofcourse,

andyetonefeelscompelledtodoeverythingforthem.”

“Yousoundasifyou’vejustenteredtheEnlightenment,myfriend.Welcometotherevolution.”

Hetuggedgentlyatherhair,andshelaughedagain.

Hecontinuedwashing,andafterthefinalrinse,hecarefullysqueezedmoisturefromthelongtresses.

Herestedhischinonhershoulder,coveringherbreastswithhisarms.

Ravensighedheavily.

“Whatwasthatfor?”Hekissedhershoulder.

Sheloweredherlipstohisarm.“Ihaveyou,andmysisterlostDan.”

“You,ofallpeople,knowtheworldisunjust.Thingsaregiven,thingsaretakenaway.It’sbeyond

ourcontrol.”

“Ishouldhavefoundanotherway.”Shebowedherhead.

“Maximiliancouldhavekilledher.Sheisstillalive.”

Ravendidn’tanswer.

“Letmeturnyou,”hewhispered,hisbodytensebehindher.“Thenyouwillbesafe,andweshallbe

together.Forever.”

“No.”

Hisgriponherloosened.“Youdidn’tevenconsiderit.Notforamoment.”

“Wespokeaboutthisbefore.Idon’twanttoliveforever.”

Hismouthfoundherear.“Butyouwouldbewithme.”

“Iloveyou,William.Iwanttospendtherestofmylifewithyou.ButIdon’twantathousandyears

ofthisworld.It’sriddledwithlossandpainandguilt.”

Williamreleasedher.

Sheturnedandplacedherhandtohischeek.“Youwon’tliveforever.Youknowthat.Yourthousand

yearswillend,andI’llbecondemnedtocenturyaftercenturywithoutyou.”

Hishandcoveredhers,hiseyesstrangelyaglitter.“Wewouldhavemoretime.”

“Ifitwerejusttimewithyou,ofcourseI’dwantit.Butthat’snotwhatwe’retalkingabout.We’re

talkingaboutdeathandfeedingandbattles.”Sheshookherhead,herwethairspillingoverhershoulders.
“Idon’twantthat.”

Helacedhisfingerswithhers,pullingherhandtohismouth.“Youwouldfeeldifferentlyafterthe

change.”

“AreyousoverydifferentfromWilliamMalet,theNorman?Isyourcharactercompletelychanged?”

Heopenedhismouthtoargueandshutitabruptly.

Sheplacedherotherhandatoptheirconjoinedones.“You,ofallpeople,knowthepowerofchoice.

Youmustrespectmine.”

“Thinkofwhatmylifewillbewhenyouaregone.”Hiseyeswerepained.

“Youhavechoices,too,William.”

“ThisisnotthelifeIwouldhavechosenforeitherofus.”

“Thendon’taskmetochooseit.”

“Nosuicide,”hemurmured.“Promiseme,nomatterwhat,thatyouwon’ttakeyourownlife.”

“Idon’tintendtokillmyself.Whyareyouworryingaboutit?”

“Youdon’tbelieveinanafterlife,butIdo.Andsuicides…”Hisbodyshuddered.

“Ipromise.Butyou’reworryingaboutsomethingthatdoesn’texist.”

Hehummedinherearbutdidnotacquiesce.“Ipraymyteacherwillcontinuetowatchoveryou.”

Hebreathedaresignedsighagainstherskinbeforeburyinghisfaceinherneck.

ChapterTwenty-Eight

“C

OULDN’T

Y

OU

S

ECURE

morecomfortableaccommodations?”Aoibhethrewbackthehoodofhercloak

asshesurveyedthesimpleroominwhichIbarrawasliving.

ThegarretwasinapartiallyrenovatedbuildingthatstoodonthebankoftheArno,acrossfromthe

Uffizi.Sawhorsesandtarpslitteredthegroundfloor,andmostoftheceilingsandwallswereinvarious
stagesofrepair.Dustandgrimecoatedmanyofthesurfaces,aswellasthestaircase.

Ibarra squatted under the roof. He’d tidied the room somewhat and moved in some furniture. The

garret’sonlyentrywasaleaded-glassskylight;thedoorhadbeenboardedshutfromtheoutside,makingit
averysuitableplaceforavampyretohide.

“Wecouldmeetatyourhomeinstead.”Ibarragaveherawolfishgrin.

“AndhavethePrincecutoffmyhead?No,thankyou.”Sheliftedhercrimsonskirtshighaboveher

ankles as she crossed the dirty floor. “You should have quit the city by now. It’s only a matter of time
beforethePrincefindsyou.”

“I’mnotleavinguntilIhavemyrevenge.”Hepulledherintohisarmsandkissedhersoundly.“Now,

whatnews?”

“ApolicemanstumbledontoTeatro.Gregorwasquiteworried,butthePrincehasemergedfromhis

preciousvillaandorderedhimtohavethepolicetakecareofit.”

“Interesting.”

“There’smore.”Shekissedhimandwithdrew,tauntinghim.

“Tellme.”

Aoibhetwirled,thefoldsofherredvelvetdresspeekingfrombeneathherblackcloak.

“Thisparticularpolicemanhasaninterestinghistory.He’sbeeninvestigatingarobberyattheUffizi,

andhe’stakenaninterestinthePrince’spet.”

Ibarrascoffed.“Thepetseemsverypopular.Doesitbleedgoldandsilver?”

Aoibhelaughed,tossingherlong,redcurls.“No,butonceagain,there’smore.Itseemsthisofficeris

lookingforWilliamYork.”

Ibarra’sdarkbrowslifted.“ThePrince?Howisthatpossible?”

“Itseemshe’sbeeninvolvedinthehumanworld,andsomehowthepolicemanhaslearnedhisname.

Apparently,he’sasuspect.”

“ThePrincewouldneverbesocareless.”

“Ah,butit’swellknownhehasaweaknessforart.PerhapshestolefromtheGallery.”

“Thatwouldn’tbeenoughtogiveapolicemanhisname.”

“No.”Aoibherubbedatherchin.“Thatisratherpuzzling.”

“Andinteresting.”Ibarrapulledhercloseonceagain,hisdarkeyesdancing.“Finally,somethingto

ouradvantage.”

“Inwhatway?”

“Inthewayinwhichhumanbeingshavealwaysbeenuseful,asatoolforouragenda.”

She pushed him away. “The coup failed. The Curia isn’t coming, and the Princess of Umbria

withdrewhertroopsfromourborders.Ifwearepatient,thePrince’stimewillelapse,andhe’llweaken.
Thenwecanstrike.”

“Aoibhe,I’mnotwaitingforthePrincetogainhisthousandyears.”

“Iwon’tbepartytoanothercoup,”shesnapped.“Inearlylostmyheadinthelastone.”

“Therewon’tbeacoup.”

Herbrowneyesnarrowed.“Thenhowdoyousuggestweseizethethrone?”

“WeallowourenemiestodisposeofthePrince,andthenwetakecontrol.”

“Whatmakesyouthinkwe’dsurviveawarwithVenice?OrUmbria?”

“Ah, that is the beauty of my plan. We don’t provoke a war. We simply motivate our enemies to

assassinatethePrince.”

Sheflouncedacrosstheroom.“ThatwasLorenzo’sstrategy.Seehowsuccessfulitwas.”

Ibarrastraightenedhisspine.“IammorecunningthanLorenzo.”

“ThePrincewasmadebytheRoman.Hehashisprotection.Noonewillmoveagainsthimnow.”

“Now, perhaps not.” Ibarra smiled. “But with the appropriate tinder…” He gestured upward. “An

explosion.”

Aoibhegazedathimsuspiciously.“Whatareyouplanning?”

Ibarra’seyesgleamed.“Abonfireofvanities.”

ChapterTwenty-Nine

W

ILLIAM

W

AS

A

LWAYS

S

ERIOUS

,alwaysfocused.Butaftertheunexpectedconversationwhilehewashed

herhair,Ravenobservedanewcasttohismovementsashecarriedhertobed.

His naked body was taut with determination and resolve. He spread himself atop her on the large

bed,hisforearmsbracketinghershoulders.

She looked up into the gray eyes of a panther, assessing and unblinking. The muscles in his chest

werehardandunyieldingastheygrazedagainstherbreasts.

Raven found his silence unnerving. She bit at her lip, waiting for him to speak. But he remained

silent.

Withoutbreakingeyecontact,hishandfoundhercheek.Hiscoolfingersdanceddownthecurveof

herneck,makingherbodyshiver.

Thenhetouchedherbreasts.

William’smovementswereunhurried,acontrasttothehungerinhiseyes.

Hecontinuedtostareashishandcuppedherfullbreast,histhumbpassingoverhernipple,feather

light.Herepeatedthemotionseveraltimesbeforemovingtotheotherbreast.

Ravensighedasheteased,herexcitementheightenedbythewayhiseyesremainedfixedonhers.He

watchedher,readingher,anticipatingeveryreaction.

Herskinbloomedwithheat,despitethecoolnessofhistouch.

Hispalmsliddownhercurvesfrombreaststohips,smoothingoverherabdomenanddriftingdown,

downtotheapexofherthighs.

Williamshiftedhisweight,withdrawinghishipssohecouldkneelbetweenherlegs.Butstill,his

glitteringeyesremainedfocusedonhers.

Heplacedhishandsonherthighsandpressed,separatingherlegs.Hishandslippedtowhereshe

desiredhimmost,histouchpromptinghertoslideclosertohim.

Hetraced,hetempted,heteased.

Ravenclosedhereyesashisfingertipsskatedbetweenherlegs.Withagrowl,hecuppedthebackof

herhead.

“Lookatme,”hecommanded.

Sheopenedhereyes,butbeforeshecouldspeak,heclaimedhermouth.

William’s kiss was firm. It made promises and exacted them in return. All the while, his fingers

dancedbetweenherlegs.

Ravenpanted.

Hegazeddownintohereyesashemaintainedhispace,histouchslowandeven.

Ravengaspedasshefelttheorgasmbuildandfinallyseizeher.

WilliamcontinuedhisministrationsuntilRavenjerkedbackward.

“Toosensitive,”shemurmured.

Hekissedher,histongueslidingagainsthersasheshiftedatopheronceagain.

Hepulledherkneessotheypressedintohissides.Thetipofhimbrushedagainstherentrance.

Ravengrippedhisshouldersashefilledher.

Once he was seated inside her, William refrained from moving. Instead, he caressed her face and

tracedthefullnessofherlips,madedampbyhismouth.

An exhale escaped him, the gentle waft of breath against Raven’s skin a studied contrast to his

glittery,impatienteyes.

Sheliftedherhips,andheinitiatedaslow,deeprhythm.

Raven moved with him, clinging to his shoulders as his powerful thrusts pushed her toward the

headboard.

Shekissedhim,theirtonguesmatchingthemovementsoftheirlowerbodies.

William trailed down to her breasts, grazing a nipple with his teeth before pulling it into his cool

mouth. He began a strong, sucking motion, alternating with gentle licks that had Raven teetering on the
edgebetweenpleasureandpain.

Herfingerssliddownhisspineandalongthefirmcurvesofhisbackside.Sheclutchedhim,urging

himintoheragainandagain.

Williamwouldnotspeed.Hispacewassurebutslow,andbreathtakinglydeep.

“Iwanttodrinkyou.”Hisexpressiongrewdangerous.

Shemanagedanodashesurgedforwardandwithdrew,againandagain.

Heshiftedtheangle,andRavengroaned,scratchingathislowerback.

“ItseemsI’vetakenatigertobed.”Hegrinnedwickedly.

Raven scratched harder, trying to force him to increase his pace. Her nails barely made an

impressiononhispale,imperviousskin.

“Whyhurry?”Hegrippedthehipaboveheruninjuredleg,adjustingtheanglesohecouldenterher

moredeeply.“Wehavehourstoenjoyoneanother.”

She moaned at the suggestion. Surely she would explode into flames before a few more minutes

elapsed.

Hekissedhernose.“Relax.”

Hismouthtastedherbreasts.“Savorthesensations.”

“Ineedtocome.”Shearchedherbackandliftedherbreasts.

“You deserve more.” He nipped across her chest. Then, with his mouth fastened on a nipple, he

increasedhispace.

Ravengrippedhisbackside,pullinghimintoher.

Heliftedhismouthtoherneck,histonguetastingtheskin.Herolledthefleshinhismouthbefore

usingtheedgeofhisteeth.

RavenmurmuredsomethingthatcollapsedintoamoanasWilliambegantosuckherneck.

Twomorethrustsandshewasclimaxing,holdingherbreathasshegaveherselfovertopleasure.

Williamgrowledandbitherneck,histeethpenetratingherartery.Hedrewbloodintohismouthin

pacewithherheartbeat,hislipsfastenedtoherneck.Allthewhile,hecontinuedthrusting,asherbody
seizedandcontractedaroundhim.

Athirdorgasmchasedthesecond,andRavendrewanunevenbreathasherbodyremainedtightened.

Williamswallowedandlessenedthesuctionatherneck,waitingforhertorelaxinthewaneofher

climax.Whenshebegantosoften,hewithdrewhisteeth.

Sheinhaled,armsfloppingtothemattress.

The tip of his tongue made lazy circles against her wound. He fluttered his lips up and down her

neck,asifhecouldn’tbeartopartfromit.

“Youdidn’t,”shewhispered,feelinglightheadedfromthesuddenbloodloss.

“Not yet.” He slid down her body, making sure his chin scratched a line between her breasts and

downtoherbellybutton.

He pulled her legs open, his mouth hovering above the place where she still trembled. “I am in a

moodtosavor.”

Heloweredhislipstothetenderflesh.

ChapterThirty

“I

T

I

SN’T

Y

OUR

C

ASE

.”

ThevoiceofBatelli’ssuperiorranginhisearsashehurriedacrossthePiazzadellaSignoria.

“Forgetabouttheclub.”

ItwaseasyenoughtodiscoverthetrueownerofTeatro,theclubhe’dbeenforbiddentosearch.A

Swisscorporationownedit.Andalthoughhecouldn’tfindoutverymuchaboutthecorporation,hetook
thefactthatitwasSwisstobeconfirmationTeatrowassomehowconnectedtoWilliamYork.

When it came to the elusive Mr. York, all investigative roads led to Switzerland—all except for

Raven Wood, who had mysteriously disappeared from Florence after a dead body turned up in her
building.

The police investigating the murder had given the corpse to the FBI because the victim was

American. The FBI had transferred it to Rome for an autopsy. They’d promised to share their findings
withtheFlorentinepolice.

Batelli had read the police file, invoking a favor from a friend who had access to the documents.

RavenWoodwasapersonofinterestinthedeath,butsowashersister,whohadalsogonemissing.

Itseemedthemurderinvestigation,likethatoftherobberyoftheUffizi,hadstalled.

Batellihadforensicevidence,buthe’dkeptitsexistenceoutofthenewspapers.Hehadapieceof

parchmentthatpresumablyborethehandwritingofoneofthethieves.TheforensicsteamfromInterpol
hadidentifiedthewriterasmale,buttheywerepuzzledbyhisstyleofhandwriting.Heusedaveryold,
very out-of-date hand—one more in keeping with medieval manuscripts than contemporary European
modesofwriting.Thelettersseemedtohavebeenpennedwithaquill.

The parchment, like the financial trail that led from a mysterious donation to the Uffizi back to a

numberedSwissbankaccount,wasapieceofamuchlargerpuzzle.Teatrowasanotherpiece.

For this reason, Batelli was eager to investigate the club. He’d learned of its existence from an

anonymoussource,buthissupervisorhadorderedhimtoabandontheinvestigationandhe’dflatlyrefused
toallowhimtosearchthepremises.

BatellilitacigaretteashestoodseveralfeetawayfromtheLoggiadeiLanzi.

He knew better than to challenge his superiors. He was already a joke around the world—the

detective who had no leads and no prospects relating to the greatest art heist in Uffizi history. It was a
matterofprideaswellasjusticethathecontinuetheinvestigation,eventhoughhissuperiorshadalready
assignedhimtoanothercase.

He’d made copies of his file on the robbery, including the information on the parchment and the

Swissbankaccount.He’dtranscribedhisrough,handwrittennotes,includinghisremarksonRavenWood
and William York, and her sister’s murdered fiancé. Although it was completely against protocol, he’d
made arrangements to have the file delivered to a reporter at La Nazione, the local newspaper, should
somethingmaliciousbefallhim.

Batelliwasnofool.AlthoughAgentSavola’sdeathhadbeenattributedtoRussianorganizedcrime,

Batelli’sguttoldhimthedeathwaslinkedtotherobbery.Itwasonlyrightthathetakeprecautions.

Buthewouldnotabandonthecase.

He had allies helping him look for Raven Wood and her sister, while he resolved to find a way

insideTeatro.

Ashortlookaround,hetoldhimself.

That’sallheneeded.

ChapterThirty-One

R

AVEN

D

UG

H

ER

C

ANE

intothegravel,makingahaphazardpattern.ShewasinWilliam’sgarden,braving

theAugustsunnearanenormousandelaboratefountainthatfeaturedthegodNeptune.

Thegardenwasneatlyarrangedwithflowers,hedges,andorangetrees.Largeterracottapotsheld

variousplants,whilerosesbloomedinbetweenthehedges.

Thefountainwaslocatedattheendofaterracedwalkwaythatlaybetweentwolargeflowerbeds

likethecenteraisleofachurch.Theairwasperfumedwithcitrusandroses.

Two sketches lay abandoned near Raven’s feet. She’d taken charcoal to paper and sketched

William’sface,dearertoherthanherown.Whenshe’dfinishedandtheMusehadstillhoveredoverher,
she’ddrawnBorek.

Shedidnotdrawhersister.

Ifsheclosedhereyes,shecouldconjureuphappydays,whenherfatherwasaliveandtheywere

livinginPortsmouth.Sherememberedhislaughter,hiscallousedhandholdinghers,thedeeptimbreofhis
voice.

“Daddy,”shewhispered,thetearsthreatening.

Howdisappointedhewouldbewithher.Howshe’dfailedhiminlookingafterCara.

Themerestsighofabreezetouchedherface,drawingalongstrandofdarkhairacrosshereyes.A

singlewordechoedinherheart,spokeninherfather’sdeepvoice,No.

Youcan’tdoeverything.Youcan’tbeperfect.Youjusthavetobeyourself,andbethebestselfyou

canbe.

Suchwasthesimplewisdomofherfather,orwhatshecouldrememberofit.

The breeze sighed again, and Raven was seized with the impression her father would have

understood.

FatherKavanaugh,forallhisblindfaith,wouldnothurtCara.He’dreadscripturetocomfortherin

hergrief.He’dprayforherandsendherhomewithDan’sbody.Ifhewerewillingtoriskhislifeandthe
ireoftheRomaninordertosaveRavenherself,hewouldensuretheCuriadidn’tmistreatCara.

Ravenbelievedthis.ButaweekhadpassedwithnonewsfromFatherKavanaughorCara.Raven

hadcalled,texted,andsentanemail.Therehadbeennoresponse.

Ravenblinkedupatthesun,realizingsheshouldhavewornsunglassesorahat.Shefeltasifshe’d

beenlivinginacave,asifshehadn’tseenthesuninmonths,ratherthandays.Shewantedthewarmthto
bakeintoherpaleskinandintoherheart.Butitwasbeginningtogettoohot.

William had promised he would find out what was happening with Cara, but in the days that

followed their return to Florence, he’d had very little to report. Last night he’d learned the Curia had
manufactured a story about Dan and Cara being the victims of a mugging. They’d both suffered head
injuries,whichwaswhy,they’dsaid,Carahadnomemoryoftheassault.

Raven hoped that in time Cara would find healing, although she realized Dan’s loss would form a

scarthatwouldneverdisappear.

“Hereisalark,blessingmygarden.”

She turned and found William a short distance away, standing under a trellis covered in vines,

shadedfromthesun.

Shesmiled.“Iwasn’texpectingyouuntilaftersunset.”

“The city is quiet, and my brethren are resting.” He gazed at her solemnly. “I have news of your

sister.”

Ravenfeltherheartskipabeat.“Whereisshe?”

“On her way to America. Your priest was ordered to accompany her and the corpse. He’s also

spreadingthefairytaleaboutwhathappened.”

“Issheallright?”

Williampressedhislipstogether.“Sheisgrieving.ButIwastoldbyoneofoursourcesthatsheis

healthy.”

“Willshetalktome?”

“Ibelieveso,butyoushouldgiveherafewmoredays.Waituntilshe’ssettledinAmericaandwe’re

abletodeterminetheCuria’sinfluenceonher.”

Raventurnedherhead.“Idon’twanttowait.”

“Iunderstand,butsolongasyourpriestiswithher,anyinformationyougivetoherwillbegivento

him.”

Ravenchangedthesubject.“WhenareweleavingfortheAccademia?”

“I’mafraidourplansmustbepostponed.ImustmeetwiththeConsiliumtonight.”

Ravenusedhercanetodiginthegravel,tryingtohideherdisappointment.

“Iamsorry.”Hesoundedcontrite.

“It’sallright.Aslongasyoucomeback.”

“Whysodowncast?”

Shemadeanexasperatednoise.“Ican’tspeaktomysister.Ican’tleavethevilla.WhatcanIdo?”

Williammovedtotheveryedgeoftheshade.“There’sbeentoomuchunrest,toomanywhispers.By

nowI’msureit’sclearyouaremygreatestweakness.”

Ravenregardedhim,acenturies-oldvampyrewithuntoldpowersandthewisdomofages.“Noone

wholookedatyouwouldeverthinkyouweak.”

“Noonewholookedatmewhenyouwereabsent,perhaps.Butweareattached,youandI.Itmust

beplaintothosearoundus,despitehowhardI’vetriedtohideit.”

Ravenduginthegravelagain.

“Ihavemadeanerror,”Williamsaidatlength.

NowRavenlookedathim.“Whatdoyoumean?”

“Youareunhappy.”

“I’mnotusedtostayinginonespotallthetime.Iliketogoout.”

Williampassedahandoverhismouth.“Alarkwhoiscagedisneverasbeautifulasalarkwhois

free.Isaidthattoyouonce.NowI’vecagedyou.”

“Theremustbesomewayformetoleavethevillaandstillbesafe.You’rethePrinceofasecure

kingdom.YouhavethesupportoftheRoman.”

Heloweredhisvoice.“Ihavemanyfearsaswell.”

Ravenliftedherhandsinexasperation.“Sharethem.Let’sbeafraidtogether.Butdon’tshutmeout,

andplease,pleasedon’tkeepmeinacage.”

Williamlookedaroundquicklybeforeventuringintothesun.

Hismovementwassoquick,Ravengaspedwhenshesawhimstandingbesideher.

Tenderly,hetouchedhercheek.“MygreatestfearisthatIcan’tprotectyou.”

Shegrabbedhiswrist.“I’mafraidI’llloseyou.OrtheCuriawillcomeandtakeyouaway.”

“Iamfightingsothatwon’thappen.”

“Thenletmefightatyourside,William,notinsideyourvilla.WhenItoldyouIwasafraidofbeing

destroyedbylove,youtoldmemyfearswereshared.Yourfearsareshared,too.I’mterrifiedoflosing
youorhavingsomeonetakeawaymymemoriesofyou.”Acryofanguishescapedfromherchest.“Ilove
you,knowingitmaydestroyme.LovemeasIam—disabled,mortal,andbreakable—foraslongasyou
can.”

“Ido,”hewhispered.“Iwill.”

“Thentakemewithyou.”

William’sexpressiongrewconflicted.

Shefrowned.“Idon’tmeantoConsiliummeetings.Idon’teverwanttogotooneofthoseagain.But

I’dliketogototheOpificio.ThePittiPalace.Iusedtovolunteerattheorphanage.CanIdothatagain?”

Williamlookedathergravely.“Isitimportanttoyou?”

“Verymuch.Ilikeworkingwithchildren.Ihavetodosomethingusefulforsocietyandnotjustsit

aroundbeingwaitedonallthetime.”

“Youcancontributetosocietybybeingwhoyouare.”

“Thatisn’tenough.”

“Idisagree.Butyoualsocontributebypreservinggreatworksofart.”

Frustrated,sheshookherhead.

“Ifyouwishtovolunteer,I’llassignsomeonetogowithyou,”Williamoffered.“Welosttheother

securityguards.”

RavenrememberedMaximilianattackingMarcoandLuka.They’ddiedtryingtoprotecther.“Thank

you.”

“Tonight,whenImeetwiththeConsilium,willyoustayhere?”

“Ofcourse.”Shegatheredupherartsupplies.“Iknowthesunismakingyouuncomfortable.Let’s

standintheshade.”

Williamtookherbytheelbowandhelpedhertoherfeet.Heescortedherbacktothetrellis.

Hetookthesuppliesfromherhand,alongwithhercane,andputthemonanearbytable.Hegathered

herhandsinhisandplacedthemoverhisheart.

Ravenwasdistractedmomentarilybythestrangesilenceunderneathherpalms.Andthen,hisheart

thumped.

“I—”Williamfrowned.“IhavethoughtmanytimesofthepriceIwouldpayforlove.ButIshould

havebeenthinkingofthepriceyou’dhavetopay.”

“IknewwhenIlostmyfathermylifewouldneverbesweetnessandlight,”Ravensaid.“Mostly,I’m

sad for my sister. Having to stay here by myself for hours on end makes it worse because I can’t stop
worryingabouteverything.”

William’s eyebrows drew together. “I should have realized. I am sorry. I should have dealt with

MaximilianwhenIhadthechance.”

“Nooneknowsthefuture.Icertainlydon’tblameyouforwhathedidtoDan.”

Williamwrappedhimselfaroundher.

Raven’sgriponhimtightenedasshedrewcomfortfromhisnearness.“Thisiswhatwehavetohold

onto.”

ChapterThirty-Two

“D

ANIEL

W

AS

AG

OOD

M

AN

.”

FatherKavanaughlookeddownintotheblueeyesofRavenandCara’smother,Linda.Henoddedbut

madenomovementtoshakeherhandorembraceher.

“Whydidn’tRavencomewithyou?”

Father started at her question. His hand went into his pocket and closed on the relic he carried.

“Ravenisrecoveringfromtheattack.Sheisn’twellenoughtotravel.”

Lindagavehimapainedlook.“Doyouthinkshewillcomehome?”

“Ican’tanswerthat.”

“Butyouareclosetoher,”Lindapressed.“Shetrustsyou.Maybeyoucouldtalktoheraboutcoming

home?Shecouldstaywithus.Wehaveplentyofroom.”

“Mrs.Shannon,Ican’trepairyourrelationshipwithyourdaughter.OnlyyouandRavencandothat.”

“Butmyfamilyisinshambles.”Lindaplacedherhandonhisarm.“Weneedyourhelp.”

On instinct, Father pulled his arm away. “Your family was in shambles a long time ago, Mrs.

Shannon.”

“What’sthatsupposedtomean?”Lindaraisedhervoice.

Father noticed that the few remaining mourners, including Linda’s new husband, had turned their

attentioninhisdirection.

Hishandwenttohisforehead,andherubbedatthecreases.“Forgiveme.I’msorryforyourloss.”

Hetriedtowalkawaybutshesteppedinfrontofhim.“Idemandtoknowwhatyoumeant.”

His eyes moved to hers. “I’m talking about what happened to Raven and Cara when they were

children.”

Lindareddened.“Ravenisunbalanced.Shedoesn’tknowwhatshe’stalkingabout.”

“WhywouldyoudismissherclaimsbeforeItoldyouwhatshesaid?”

Lindamumbledavagueresponse.

The priest’s expression grew severe. “Your ex-husband’s recent arrest in California for child

molestationcorroboratesRaven’saccountofwhathappenedtoCara.”

Mrs.Shannonbegantoprotestvehemently,butheliftedhishand.“Youcanlietoyourself,andyou

canlietoeveryoneelse,includingyourchildren.Butyoucannotlietome.Youknew.”

Somethinginhereyesshifted.

Sheadjustedherveryexpensivehandbag.“Ihavenoideawhatyou’retalkingabout.”

Heleanedcloser.“YouknowexactlywhatI’mtalkingabout.Youknewwhatwasgoingon,andyou

didnothing.SoJane,yourtwelve-year-olddaughter,tookmattersintoherownhands.Andshepaidforit
withherleg.”

“Youdon’tknowwhathewaslike!”sheshouted.“Youdon’tunderstand.”

“Thentellme.”Hisvoicegrewquietonceagain.“I’mlistening.”

Thewomanhesitated,somethingworkingbehindhereyes.

Sheglancedaroundandsawtheremainingmournerswatchingtheexchange.

“Thankyouforperformingtheservice,Father.PleasetellRavenIhopeshefeelsbettersoon.”Linda

spunonherheel,andmarchedaway.

FatherKavanaughwatchedherdepartingform.Hewatchedhertakethearmofherhusbandandwalk

towardthelongblacklimousinethatwaitednearby.

Heliftedhiseyesheavenward.

He’dtriedtohelpRavenandherfamilyformanyyears.CrackingLinda’sdenialforthefirsttime

shouldhavefeltlikeavictory.Buthefeltfarfromvictorious.

Sheneededhealingandloveasmuchasherdaughters.Andhe’dbeenharshwithher.

“Forgiveme,”hewhispered.

His thoughts strayed to Raven, and he reflected on her character and intelligence, her bravery and

compassion.

Standinginthecemetery,withthehotMiamisunstreamingdownonhim,theJesuitfeltsomething

moveinhisheart.

HeknewwhatRavenencounteredatthehandsofthefiendwhoclaimedtoownher.Hewouldnot

turn a blind eye. He wouldn’t abandon her to her fate as a vampyre’s pet, even if that meant the sin of
disobedienceandexpulsionfromtheCuria.

TheinfiniteworthofonesoulfaroutweighedanyresponsibilityhehadtotheCuriaortotheJesuits.

HeknewinhisheartthatGodagreed.

“Helpme,”heprayed.“Showmewhattodo.”

Asifinawhisper,agermofanideatookrootinhismind.

ChapterThirty-Three

L

ATE

O

NE

E

VENING

the following week, William and Raven exited the Mercedes under the cover of

darknessandenteredtheAccademiaGallery.

“Howdidyoumanagethis?”Ravenpeeredpastthesecurityguardintoanemptyhall.

Williamsmiled,hisgrayeyesgleaming.“TheGalleryisavailableforprivatetoursafterhours.Ata

price.”

HeledherdownstairstoaprivategardenthatopenedoutfromtheGallery’sbookshop.Thegarden

waslitwithcandlesandsmalllamps.Atableshroudedinlinenstoodwithachampagnebucketatopit.

Ravencoveredhermouthinsurprise.“Thisissobeautiful.Idon’tthinkI’veeverbeenouthere.”

William’shandspannedherlowerbackashewhispered,“Yourbeautyputsthegardentoshame.”

Ravenloweredherheadandfussedwithhergown.Itwasblackandoverlaidwithcrimsonroses,

almostreachingherknees.Thedressdippedlowinthefront,drawingattentiontohergenerouscleavage,
andbaredmostofherback,aswellasherarms.

HercheeksflushedunderWilliam’sunabashedappraisal.

Forhispart,Williamhadshockedherbydonningawhiteshirt,ratherthanhisusualblack,witha

blacksuit.He’dshunnedatieandunbuttonedthetoptwobuttonsofhisshirt,exposinghischesttogreat
effect.

“Thisdressisshort.”Shepulledatthehem,vainlyattemptingtolengthenit.

Williamretreatedafewfeetinordertogazeather.“Ihaveobservedyouinmuch,muchless.”

“Inbed,yes.”

“Notjustinbed.”Hesmiled.“Intheshower,inmylibrary,ontheterrace,inmygarden—”

“Pointtaken,”sheinterrupted,theflushheighteninginhercheeks.

Hestoodinfrontofherandloopedhisarmsaroundherwaist.“Iwantedtoseeyouhappy.”

“Thankyou.”

Hesqueezedherbackside.“Mypleasure.”

Heofferedherhisarm,andshetookit.TheyexploredthegardenbrieflybeforeWilliamledRaven

toalowstonebenchsoshecouldrestherleg.

Shepattedthespacenexttoher.“DoyoumindifIaskyouafewquestionsabouttheRenaissance?”

Williamjoinedheronthebench.“Notatall.”

“WhatwasBeatricelike?”

Williamlookedoffintospace.“Shewasbeautiful.Shewasregal.Shehadmanyadmirers,butDante

wasprobablythemostobsessive.”

“Youdidn’tlikehim?”

Williammadewhatcouldpolitelybecalledadisgustedface.“Hewasproud,arrogant,andwily.He

usedmanycontrivancestogetherattention.Andhewasalreadymarried.”

Raven looked at the garden, at the glass windows that divided the interior of the gallery from the

outsidespace.“Dantemadeherimmortal.Becauseofhislove,peoplehavebeenreadingaboutherfor
centuries.”

“Icouldmakeyouimmortal.”William’sgrayeyeslaseredintohers.

“Artistheonlythingthatlasts.”

“Idisagree.Letmechangeyou.”

Shelookedaway.“We’vetalkedaboutthis.”

Williamshudderedasigh.“Yes,wehave.Ithoughtperhapsyou’dchangeyourmind.”

Ravenhastilychangedthesubject.“It’ssadthatmorepeoplecan’tenjoyyourBotticelliillustrations

ofDanteandBeatrice.”

Williambristled.“Theyhavecopies.Thatmustbeenough.”

Herestedhishandonhershoulderbeforemovingtothetable.Heliftedabottlefromtheicebucket.

Ravenrecognizedthelabel.DomPérignon.

She’dnevertasteditbefore.

ShewatchedinanticipationasWilliamremovedthecork.

“Whatarewecelebrating?”Raventooktheprofferedglass,onceitwasfilled.

“You.Toyourhappiness.”Heliftedhisglassandtappeditagainsthers.

“Toourhappiness,William.”

She tasted the champagne—cool and dry, with the smallest bubbles. It was crisp and fresh and

absolutelynothinglikeanythingshe’dtastedbefore.

Theysippedinsilenceforafewmoments.Williamwatchedherovertherimofhisglass.

Whenshe’dfinishedherchampagne,heplacedherglassalongwithhisonthetable.

He lifted her hand to his lips. “Unlike the rest of the humans who pine after vampyres, you don’t

dreamofbeingimmortal.Tellmewhatyoudreamabout.”

“Idreamoflivingwithyouinpeace.I’dliketotravelwithyou,someday.”

“Where?”

“I’dlikeyoutoshowmeYork.I’dliketovisitmysisterandmakesureshe’sallright.”

“Otherdreams?Thingsyouwouldliketoaccomplish?”

“Iwanttocontinuevolunteeringattheorphanage.I’mgratefulIwasabletogobackthisweek.

“IenjoymyworkattheUffizi.WewillbestartingworkononeofArtemesiaGentileschi’spaintings

inSeptember.I’dliketocontinuebeingpartofthatteam.”

“Ishalldoeverythinginmypowertoensureyouaresafeenoughtodothat.”

Raven smiled, for the thought made her happy. “I’d like to continue working on your collection as

well,especiallytheMichelangelo.”

“EverythingIownisatyourdisposal.”Hekissedherfingertips,onebyone.“Peacewillcometomy

city,andIshallbeabletotakeyouabroad.”

“Youwouldtakemetoseemysister?”

“IwasinAmericaoveracenturyago.Ishouldprobablypayanothervisit.”

“Thankyou.”Shedrewhimdowntositnexttoherandleanedherheadagainsthisshoulder.“What

areyourdreams?”

Heplacedhisarmaroundher.

“Tospend as muchtime inside youas possible.” He gaveher a meaningfullook before taking her

mouth.

ChapterThirty-Four

I

SPETTOR

B

ATELLI

S

MOKED

alonelycigarettearoundthecornerfromtheundergroundclub.He’dspentthe

lastfewdaysworkingonthenewcasehe’dbeenassigned,whilecontinuinghissurveillanceoftheclub
afterhours.

Hewastired,hewasfrustrated,buthewasdetermined.

Tonightwasthenight.Hewasgoingtofindawayinsidethebuilding.

He’dalreadynoticedthecomingsandgoingsofmenandwomenofvariousages.He’dmarkedthe

bouncerwhostoodinthealleyoutsidetheonlyvisibleentrancetotheentirebuilding.

Hehadtoadmit,thebouncerswereexceptional.Theywerelarge,theywereintimidating,andthey

never,evertookabreak.Batelliwonderedaboutthesizeoftheirbladders.

He extinguished his cigarette and moved into position, standing across the street. From this

shadowedvantagepoint,hecouldseethebouncerandthedoor,buthopefully,thebouncercouldn’tsee
him.

Batellihadonlybeeninhisnewpositiontenminuteswhenthedoortotheclubswungoutward.

“Neverreturn,”anominousvoicewarned.

Amanofmediumheightheldtwolargermenbythescruffoftheirnecks.Withastrengththatbelied

hisslimstature,themanthrewthempastthebouncerandtowardtheoppositewall.

Theycrashedintothewallandfelltotheground,motionless.

“Bannedforlife,”themanordered,speakingtothebouncer.“TheyinsultedLadyAoibhe.”

Batelli’searsprickedupattheunfamiliarname.

Withanod,themanretreatedintotheclub,closingthedoorbehindhim.

Thebouncerwalkedovertothetwomen,whoappearedconsciousbutdazed.

Heliftedthem,oneoneachsideofhislargebody,anddraggedthemoutofthealleyanddownthe

street.

Batelliwastednotimeinsprintingtowardtheclub’sdoor.Hetriedpryingitopen,buttonoavail.

Helookedaroundforasecuritypanelorkeypad,butcouldfindnothing.

Heglancedoverhisshoulder.Thealleywasstillempty.

Buttimewasshort.

Hecurledhisfingersaroundtheedgeofthedoor,gropingforsomekindoflatch.

“Whatdowehavehere?”

Batellijerkedawayfromthedoor.

Ahoodedfigurestoodattheclosedendofthealley,havingmaterializedoutofthedarkness.

Batellitookastepback.He’dcheckedthealleyonlyamomentbefore.Ithadbeenempty.

Thefigurecockeditsheadtooneside.“Andyouare?”

“Lorenzo,”Batellilied.“I’mjustmeetingafriend.”

“IknewsomeonenamedLorenzo.Hedidn’thaveanyfriends.”Thefigurepaused.“Andneitherdo

you.”

Withoutwarning,thefigureflewtowardBatelliandgrabbedhim,beforescalingthesideofTeatro

andclimbingtotheroof.

ChapterThirty-Five

J

UST

B

EFORE

S

UNRISE

, Patrick Wong and Gina Molinari wandered into the Piazza Signoria, near the

LoggiadeiLanzi.

Ithadbeenoneofthoserestless,hotsummernights.They’dhadalatedinnerandgonetoabarwith

friends. One drink turned into several, and they’d moved to a dance club. Then they’d proceeded to
anotherbar.

Theyhadn’tstayedoutthislateinaverylongtime.Eventhoughtheywereexhaustedandintoxicated,

theydecidedtotakeadetourtothepiazzaandwalkaroundalittle.

Thepiazzawasempty—arareoccurrence—asifthebeautifulspacehadbeenreservedsimplyfor

thepairoflovers.

TheywanderedovertotheLoggiaandbegantokiss,theirbodiesbackingagainstoneofthestone

pillars.Acarvedlionstareddownatthem.

Patricksmiledathisbeloved,hisfingersplayingwithherhair.

Shehuggedhim,andhereciprocated,hiseyesclosing.

Whentheyopened,hefoundhimselfgazingupatthestatueofMenelausandPatroclus,whichstood

atthecenteroftheLoggia.Itwasnotaparticularlyromanticscene.

PatrickstareddrunkenlyatMenelaus’helmet.Thenheliftedhiseyestolookaboveit.

Suspendedfromtheceilingwasalong,ironchain.Attheendofthechainwasahook,whichhad

beenembeddedintheabdomenofanakedbody.

Patrick pulled away from Gina and stumbled up the stairs. He rubbed his eyes, fearing he was

hallucinating.

Butno,attheendoftheironchainthathungfromthetopoftheLoggiawassuspendedadeadman—

limbsoutstretched,headback.Hewasnakedandcoveredinblood.

Ginascreamed.

Patrick stumbled to her side. He leaned against a pillar and retched, the contents of his stomach

splashingontheground.

Heretchedagain.

Ginasupportedhimatthewaist,murmuringworriedlyinhisear.

Whenhe’dfinished,hewipedhismouthwithhisshirtsleeveandstaredoutatthepiazza.

Itwasempty.

HetookGina’shandandledherawayfromtheLoggia,tothecenterofthepiazza..Heretrievedhis

cellphoneandshakilydialedthepolice.

“Ifoundabody,”hestammered,staringupatthecorpsethathungfromtheLoggia.

ChapterThirty-Six

AK

NOCKING

S

OUND

wokeRavenfromaverysoundsleep.William,wholaynakedbesideher,rosefrom

thebedandwrappedhimselfinanantiquateddressinggown.

Sherolledtoherside,unwillingtoopenhereyes.

Sheheardthedooropen.

“Whatisit?”William’stonewascurt.

“Forgivetheinterruption,myLord.”Ambrogiowasalmoststuttering.“There’sbeenanincident.”

“Whatkindofincident?”

RavenopenedhereyestoseeWilliammoveintothehallway,closingthedooronhisconversation.

Sheheardmurmursfromthehallbutcouldn’tmakeoutthewords,untilWilliamswore,loudly.

Here-enteredthebedroomandstrodetooneoftheclosets,removingasetofclothes.

Ravensatup.“Whatisit?”

“Ispettor Batelli’s body is hanging from a meat hook in the Loggia dei Lanzi.” William tossed his

dressinggowntothefloorandbegantopullonhistrousers.

“What?”

“Photographsofthescenehavebeenmadepublic.TheCuriawillhavelearnedofitbynow.”

“Areyouindanger?”

Williamturnedhishead.

Hisexpressionsoftened.“No,mylark.ButImustactimmediately.”

Hecontinueddressingassheblinkedawaysleep.“WhywouldsomeonekillBatelli?”

Williambuttonedhisshirt.“It’stheposingofthebodythatismoretelling.Hewaspositionedina

publicplace,justasthesunwasrising.Whoeverdiditknewourattemptsatcoveringupthekillwould
behamperedbythesun.”

“Youdon’tthinktheCuriadidthis?”

“It’spossible.Butit’smorelikelythiswasavampyre,lookingtoattackmepersonally.”

“How?”

“By exposing my connection to the illustrations and those cursed Emersons. By exposing my

connection to you.” He moved to her side and kissed her deeply. “Be careful. Be alert. I’d prefer you
didn’tleavethevillatoday,butifyoudo,pleasehaveAmbrogioinformme.Besuretotakethesecurity
guardswithyou.”

Hedisappearedthroughthedoor.

ChapterThirty-Seven

“W

HAT

T

HE

F

UCK

?”GabrielEmersonclaspedhisheadwithbothhandsashestaredinshockattheimage

onhislaptop.

HewasseatedatthekitchentableinhishouseinHarvardSquare,keepingJuliacompany.Clarehad

an ear infection and had spent most of the evening crying. Julia held the child in her arms, pacing the
kitchenfloorinanattempttosootheher.

Ithadbeenalongnight.

“Language,”Juliachidedhim,frowningathimoverthebaby’shead.

Heignoredherrebuke,scrollingthroughafewpagesonhiscomputer.

“Whatisit?”Shewalkedtowardhim,butheclosedthelaptopwithasnap.

“Don’tlook.”

Hereyebrowscrinkled.“Whynot?”

Gabrielranhisfingersthroughhistousledhair.“Doyourememberthecarabinieriofficerwhowas

assignedtoinvestigatetheUffizirobbery?”

“Yes,whatabouthim?”

“He’sdead.”

“Dead?”Julia’shandwenttoClare’shead,asifbycoveringhershecouldprotecther.

“Murdered.” Gabriel gestured to his laptop. “There are photographs of the body, all over the

internet.”

“Theyshouldn’tpostpictureslikethat.Havetheynorespectforhisfamily?”

Gabrielcursedagain,hishandsinhishair.

“Thepoorman.”JuliasnuggledClareintohershoulder.“Iwonderifhehadchildren.”

“This is also bad for us.” Gabriel’s blue eyes blazed. “The inspector’s body was posed near the

Uffizi.Someoneismakingastatement.”

“Youmeantherobberyisconnectedtothemurder?”

“It’s possible. Actually, it’s more than possible. It’s likely. He was the lead investigator. Those

illustrationsareworthalotofmoney.Perhapshewasclosetofindingthem.”

“What about the strange man who came to see you in Umbria? Do you think he’s involved?” Julia

heldClareevenmoretightly,bouncingherlightlyasshewhimpered.

Gabrielstood,pushinghischairaside.“I’mgoingtocallVitali.It’smorningthere,andI’msurehe

willhaveheardthenews.”

“Gabriel…” Julia faltered, her gaze moving from her child to her husband. “That man threatened

you.Areweindanger?”

“I’llknowmoreonceIspeaktoVitali,butit’stoomuchofacoincidence.I’mnottakinganychances,

notwithyouandClare.”

“Whatarewegoingtodo?”

“AfterIspeakwithVitali,we’regoingtopackourbagsandheadtoLoganAirport.We’regoingto

beonthenextflightout.Oncewe’reoutofBoston,wecandecidewheretogonext.”

Heplacedhisarmsaroundhisfamilyandkissedhiswife’stemple.“We’llbetravelingwest.”

ChapterThirty-Eight

T

HE

G

REAT

C

OUNCIL

C

HAMBER

wasempty,saveforthePrinceandhisheadofsecurity.

Gregorapproachedthethroneandbowed,keepinghisheadlowered.

ThePrincehuffedimpatiently.“Outwithit.”

“I’m sorry, my Lord. News of the policeman’s death has been widely reported. Because the body

wasfoundasthesunwasrising,witnesseswereabletotakephotographs.”

“Iamwellawareofthesecurityservices’failure.Haveyouanythingnewtoreport?”

“Thehumanintelligencenetworkwasabletosecurethebody,butnotbeforeapreliminaryautopsy

wasconducted.”

ThePrincebangedhisfistagainstthearmrest.“Howcouldtheybesocareless?”

Gregor felt for his neck. “It’s a high profile case, my Lord. The autopsy was conducted

immediately.”

“Youareheadofsecurity.Haveyoumadeanyprogressinfindingthekiller?”

Gregorclearedhisthroat.“Thesecurityserviceshavebeenspeakingtothebrethren.Nooneadmits

killing him, but the policeman was seen near Teatro before his death. A hooded figure was caught on
videotape.Heappearstohaveabductedthepoliceman.”

The Prince leaned forward on his throne. “You have a suspect. Good. Are you sure the figure is

male?”

“Yes,myLord.Forvariousreasons,weusedfootageofLadyAoibheasacomparison.Insizeandin

proportion,thefigurewasmale.IfImaybeallowedtospeculate,thefigureputmeinmindofIbarra.”

“HaveyouspokenwithAoibhe?”

“No,myLord.ManywitnessescanattesttoherpresenceatTeatrobeforeandaftertheabduction.

Sincethen,wehavebeenunabletolocateher.”

The Prince’s eyes alighted on the empty chair in which Aoibhe sat during Consilium meetings. “If

Ibarraisstillinthecity,hemustbefound,andquickly.”

“Yes,myLord.Ihavebeenhuntinghimpersonally,butheiselusive.”Gregorshuffledhisfeet.

ThePrince’seagleeyesnoticedGregor’smovement.“Itakeityouhavemoretoreport?”

“Yes,myLord.LaNazionehaspublishedanarticledetailingthedeadpoliceman’sinvestigationof

theUffizirobbery.Thereporterclaimstohaveaccesstotheinspector’sprivatepapers.Heisdemanding
thatthecarabinieriandInterpoltakeuptheinvestigation,andthattheypursuetheprimesuspect.”

“Andwhoistheprimesuspect?”

“WilliamYork.”

ThePrincepinnedhisassistanttothespotwithhisglare.“Howwasthisallowedtohappen?”

Gregor looked up at the ruler in acute distress. “Our intelligence network had no knowledge of a

connectionbetweenthepolicemanandthereporter.Itseemsmaterialsweretransferredfromonetothe

otherwiththeinstructionthattheyshouldbemadepublicshouldsomethinguntimelyoccur.”

William’shandscurvedintofists.“Wearejustlearningofthisnow?Aftertheentireworldhasread

aboutit?”

Gregor winced. “Yes, my Lord. The article also reports that the files have been transferred to

Interpol. Even if we were to deal with the reporter, the information will have been seen by numerous
people.”

“Wheredowestand?”

“Someonefromthemedicalteamleakeddetailsoftheautopsytothepress.It’sbeingreportedthat

thehuman’sbodywasdrainedofbloodpriortodeathandthattherewerebitemarksonhisneck.”

The Prince lifted a gold chalice from a nearby table and threw it across the council chamber. It

struckthebackwall,whichwashewnfromstone,andshatteredonimpact.

“Tellmethenewspapersaren’tmentioningvampyres.”

Gregor swallowed noisily. “I cannot tell you that, my Lord. However, they are also mentioning

Satanists.”

“IfonlytheSatanistswouldclaimresponsibility,”thePrincemuttered.“IexpecttheCuriaisalready

onitsway.”

“In this respect, I can offer good news, my Lord. Word from Rome is that the Curia are merely

observing,toowaryoftheRomantoactagainsthisally.”

“That is something positive.” The Prince straightened. “Order the human intelligence network to

manufactureevidencesupportinganalternativescenario,onethatwouldimplicatesomeoneotherthana
vampyre.Satan-worshippersareconvenientenough.

“Dealwiththereporter,andidentifyanewsuspectrelatedtotheUffizirobbery—someonefromthe

securitystaff.”

“Withwhatevidence,myLord?”

“Withwhateverevidencecanbecreatedinashortperiodoftime,”thePrincegrowled.“Thehuman

intelligencenetworkissupposedtobeintelligent.Tellthemtousetheirheads.”

“Yes,myLord.”

ThePrincefixedhisheadofsecuritywithaseverelook.“ThesecurityserviceneedstofindIbarra

andbringhimtome.IshallgoinpursuitofAoibhe.

“See that we have troops posted at our borders in case of an incursion, and contact our spies in

Rome.IwanttoknowifwecanexpectanyreactionfromtheCuria.

“SendwordtotheRomanasacourtesy,thankinghimforourallianceandreassuringhimthatIamin

control of the principality and all security risks will be dealt with expeditiously.” He paused. “And
Gregor,takecaretoimproveyourservice.”

“Absolutely,myLord.”

Gregorbowedandracedfromthecouncilchamberasifthehoundsofhellwerechasinghim.

ChapterThirty-Nine

R

AVEN

W

AS

I

N

T

HE

H

ALLWAY

lookingforWilliamwhensheheardvoicesfrombehindthecloseddoorsof

hislibrary.Withoutbotheringtoknock,sheenteredtheroom.

LuciaandAmbrogiostoodatthefarendofthelibrary,infrontofWilliam’sdesk.

William beckoned to her as he concluded his instructions. “To Geneva. But only in dire

circumstances.”

“Yes,myLord.”Theservantsrepliedinunison.

“Youaredismissed.”

Thetwohumansbowedandleftthelibrary,noddingatRavenastheyexited.

Sheleanedonhercaneasshecrossedtohisdesk.“What’sinGeneva?”

“TheTrivium.”

“What’sthat?”

“Mybank.”Williamcameoutfrombehindhisdesk.Hetookherhandsinhis.“Ifyouneedtoflee

Florence, go to Via San Zanobi, number thirty-three. Ask for Sarah. She will provide you with safe
passageoutofthecity.”

“You’vetoldmethisbefore.”Shesearchedhiseyes.“Hassomethingchanged?”

“AnewspaperhasprintedthestoryofBatelli’sdeath.Theymentionedmynameandyours.”

Ravenwashorrified.“Why?”

“BatelliwasinvestigatingusinconnectionwiththerobberyoftheUffizi.”

“Butthat’salie!Iwasinterviewed,butIwasneveranofficialsuspect.”

“ThenewspaperisreportingwhatBatellirecordedinhispersonalpapers.”

Raven pressed a hand to her forehead. “The director of the Uffizi will see this. So will Professor

Urbano.Icouldlosemyjobonthenextrestorationproject.”

Williamtookholdofherarms.“Iamnotgoingtoallowthattohappen.Evennow,myintelligence

networkisputtingoutdisinformation.Inafewdays,thependulumwillswinginourdirection.”

Ravenleanedagainstthedesk.“Iwanttocontinuetoliveinmyworld.MyjobattheUffiziisreally

importanttome.”

Hewrappedhishandaroundherneck.“Understood.Justgivemeafewdays.”

“Someone is trying to take the principality away from you. There’s the Curia on one side and

whatevervampyreinterloperontheother.”

Heremovedhishandandtookastepback.“That’strue,butwehavethesupportoftheRoman.We

havealliesinVeniceandUmbria.Thetidewillturn.”

Shegrabbedhishand.“Areyousure?”

“Yes.IfI’mwrong,Ihavealreadymadeawayforyoutoescapethecity.”

Shegrippedhishandtightly.“Iwon’tleavewithoutyou.”

“Youwon’thaveto.”Williamlookeddownattheirhands.“Ihaveanideawhothetraitoris,andI

amgoingtofindhim.Ijustneedalittletime.”

“WhatabouttheCuria?”

“TheCuriadoesn’twantawarwiththeRoman.They’llmakenoises,I’msure,butthey’llbeslowto

act.

“ImustshowtheCuriaandtheworldthatFlorenceisfirmlyinmycontrol.Itwilltakeacoupleof

days.”Heliftedhiseyestomeethers.“Canyougivemethat?”

“I’mnotleavingyou,William.”Sheleanedagainsthim.“Butifthecityfalls,andweneedtoflee,

willyoudoit?”

“Askmewhenthetimecomes,”hewhispered,pressingherheadagainsthischest.

ChapterForty

T

HE

P

RINCE

O

F

F

LORENCE

stoodonarooftopinthecitycenter,bidinghistime.

He knew Ibarra was either still inside the city or close by, watching the aftermath of his public

violencewithglee.Aoibheknewwherehewas,ifshewasn’twithhim.

Withpracticedease,thePrincehadtrackedAoibheoverthecourseoftheevening,followingherto

an abandoned building that stood a few doors down from a church. The site wasn’t close enough to
completelydeterothervampyres,butitwascloseenoughtogivethempause.Nodoubtshe’dchosenthe
locationaccordingly.

Hewouldnotbedeterred.

Aoibhe was ready to feed and had led a pretty young man into an apartment on the top floor. She

likedtoplaywithherfood,whichwaswhythePrincewaswaiting.

He’dtakencaretotampdownhiswrath.Aoibhehadbeenanallyandhadfoughtathisside.She’d

givenherbloodtoaidRaven’ssister.Butshe’dalwaysbeenambitious.She’dbeddeddownwithIbarra
inhopesthathecouldhelpheroverthrowthecity.

ThePrincedidn’tcarewhoshefornicatedwithorwhy.Hewouldnotforgivehertreason.

Whenhewasconfidentthetimewasripe,heclimbeddownfromtheroofandswunghisfeetthrough

theglasswindow,shatteringit.

Criescamefromanearbybed.

Aoibhewasastrideherlover,herredhairstreamingdownhernakedback.Herheadturnedtoward

thePrince,herexpressiononeofhorror.

“Whatthehell?”TheyouthgrabbedAoibhebythehips,attemptingtomoveher.

Aoibheslappedhim.“Shutyourmouth,ifyouwanttolive.”

Sheclimbedoffhimandstoodnexttothebed.

“Whatisthemeaningofthis?”Herhandswenttoherhips.

“Treadlightly,Aoibhe,”thePrincewhispered.“Youaren’ttheoffendedparty.”

Aoibhe lowered her arms and smiled artfully. “Your presence is always welcome, my Lord. I’m

simplysurprised.”

“Getdressed.”Hepulledapileofgreenvelvetfromanearbychairandthrewitather.

“Hey,what’sgoingon?”herloverdemanded.

“Silenceyourpet,orIshall.”ThePrincekepthisangryeyesfocusedonAoibhe.

“Youneedtoleave.”Aoibhedismissedthemanbeforepullingthedressoverherhead.

“Whydoesn’theleave?”themanpouted,rollingontohisside.

Aoibhe flew on top of the youth and took hold of his throat. She squeezed until the man fell

unconscious.

Then,asifnothinguntowardhadoccurred,sheslidtothesideofthebedandstood,arrangingher

greenvelvetdresstobesteffect.

“Pardon,myLord.”Sheslippedherfeetintoapairofslippers.“HowcanIserveyou?”

ThePrince’supperlipcurledindistaste.“WhereisIbarra?”

“Idon’tknow.”Aoibhepushedherhairbehindhershoulders.“He’sprobablyinBasquecountry.”

Inamovefastaslightning,thePrinceretrievedadaggerfromhisbeltandspedpastAoibhe.

Sheshriekedandclutchedherscalpasasuddenpainshotthroughher.“Whatareyoudoing?”

ThePrincewasalreadyontheothersideoftheroom.Inonehandheheldalargeclumpofredhair.

Intheother,heheldtheweapon.

Hethrewthecurlstothefloorandsheathedhisdagger.“Nexttime,itwillbeyourhead.Irepeat,

whereisIbarra?”

Aoibhetouchedherhairandanotherclumpfell.ThePrincehadsawedthelonglocksthathungover

herleftshoulderpreciselyinhalf.

Shestareddownatthecurls,asifshecouldn’tcomprehendwhathadhappened.

“Aoibhe!”hesnapped.“WhereisIbarra?”

“Idon’tknow.”Sheliftedherheadslowly,asifinshock.“Ihaven’tseenhiminacoupleofdays.”

“Youadmityou’veseenhim.”

“Yes,”shewhispered.Herslender,palethroatmovedasshemeasuredhisreaction.

“DidyouknowhewasgoingtohangapolicemanattheLoggiadeiLanzi?”

Hereyesmethis.“No.Hewantshisrevengeagainstyou,butIthoughthe’dbecaughtbeforethis.

Gregorandthesecurityteamcameclosetocapturinghimmorethanonce.”

“Hecouldhavebeencaughtifyou’dtoldmewherehewas.”

Aoibhescowled.“Andhaveyouexecuteme?I’mnotsuicidal.”

“Showmewhereyousawhim.”

Herlefthandwenttohershornlocks.“Andbeexecutedassoonasyoufindhim?No.”

“Youbetrayedme,Aoibhe.”Hisvoicewasglacial.“Youarealreadydead.”

“ThenfindIbarrayourself.”Shecrossedherarmsoverherchest,herdarkeyesdefiant.

ThePrince’smouthpressedintoahardline.“Youaren’tinapositiontonegotiate.”

“Ourrelationshiphasbeenonelargenegotiation.Ididn’tknowIbarrawasgoingtokillapoliceman

andstringhimup.He’sgonemad.”

“I’mwaiting.”

“YouwantIbarra.Iwantmyhead.Ileadyoutohim,youridthecityofamadman,andIescapethe

sword.Webothgetwhatwewant.”

“Mercyistoogreataprice.”

“It’sanexchange—hisdeathformylife.I’llagreetoleavethecitywhenhe’sdead.”Aoibhe’shand

wenttoherhairagain.

ThePrincenoticedtheslightesttremorinherhand.

“Leadmetohim.”

“Iwantyourword.”

Hegrowledhisresponse,butshestoodthere,stubbornly.

Impatientwiththedelay,thePrincerelented.“Verywell.LeadmetoIbarra,andIwon’tbetheone

toexecuteyou.”

“Iwon’tbetakeninbyyoursophistry.Promisememylife.”

Atthis,thePrincebaredhisteethandsnarled.

Obediently,Aoibheliftedherskirtsandsteppedoverthehair,headingforthedoor.

“You’vegivenmeyourword,”shesaidinasmallvoice.

ThePrinceglaredathercoldly.“Howmanypromisestomehaveyoukept?”

ChapterForty-One

T

HE

F

OLLOWING

M

ORNING

,Ravenroseearly,dressinginaprettyyellowsundressandlowsandals.

Williamhadn’treturnedaftertheirconversationthepreviousday.

Overbreakfast,Luciainformedherthathislordshipwasbusy,butplannedtoreturnbeforesunset.

Afterbreakfast,Ravenretiredtothelibrary,whereshespreadoutherpaperandcharcoalandbegan

sketchingtheviewaboveher,throughtheenormous,domedglassceiling.Itwasabright,sunnyday,and
theskywasavibrantblue.Onlythesmallestwispofcloudsailedoverhead.

Herfingerswereblackfromthecharcoalanhourlaterwhenhercellphonerang.

FatherKavanaugh.

Shedeclinedthecall.

Afewsecondslater,hecalledagain.

Shedeclinedthecall.

Hecalledagain.

With a huff, she tossed her charcoal aside, wiped her hands on a cloth, and answered the phone.

“Yes?”

“Raven,whereareyou?”Father’stonewasanythingbutcasual.

“I’minFlorence.”

“WhereinFlorence?”

“I’mnotgoingtotellyouthat.Whereareyou?Where’sCara?”

“YouneedtoleaveFlorenceatonce.It’sverydangerous.Thereare—”

“I’mfine,”sheinterrupted.“TellmeaboutCara.”

Thepriestpaused,andRavenheardsomethingmuffledinthebackground.

“I’mbackinItaly.CaraisinMiamiwithyourmother.”

“Howcouldyou?”Ravenreproachedhim.“Youjustdeliverhertoourmother,aftereverything?”

“Cara needed a place to stay until she’s ready to return to the house she shared with her fiancé.”

Father cleared his throat. “Raven, you have to leave Florence. Things are falling apart, and I won’t be
abletoprotectyou.”

“Idon’tneedyourprotection.”

“Don’thangup!”Fathershouted.

Again,Ravencouldhearsomethingmuffledinthebackground,asifthepriestwasinamovingcar.

“Iheardwhatyousaid.I’mnotleavingthecity.CallmewhenyouwanttotalkaboutCara.”Raven

tappedherscreentoendthecall.

Fathercalledagain.

Shedeclined.

Hecalledagain,andsheletitring.

Shepickeduphercharcoalandreturnedtoherdrawing.Arthadalwaysprovidedasolaceforher,

aswellasanoccupation.ShewasgladtoforgetherstrifewithFatherKavanaughandheranxietyover
hersister,andloseherselfinhersketch.

Fifteenminuteslater,aloud,shriekingalarmsounded.

Ravencoveredherears.Shecouldn’ttellifitwasafirealarmoraburglaralarm,butthesoundwas

deafening.

She picked up her cane and had begun to walk toward the door when Lucia stormed in, bolting it

behindher.

“There’sbeenasecuritybreach.Someonehascomeoverthefence.”Luciatookherarmandhurried

hertowardoneofthebookshelves.“Youneedtoevacuate.”

“Evacuate?”Ravenlookedaroundtheroom.“Can’twecallthepolice?”

“This is the protocol. His lordship will be notified, but he’s unreachable at the moment.” Lucia

openedadrawerandwithdrewaflashlight,acellphone,andapieceofpaper,allofwhichshethrustinto
Raven’shands.Shetouchedavolumeonthebookshelf,andtheentirebookcaseswunginward.

LuciaescortedRaventothesecretentrance.“Godownthestaircase.Turnright.Gototheendofthe

corridor.Enterthenumberwrittenonthatpieceofpaperinthekeypadnexttothedoor.Itwillopento
revealapassagethatrunsbeneaththecity.Makesureyouclosethedoorbehindyou.”

“Wait.”Ravenplantedherfeet.“Whataboutyou?WhataboutAmbrogio?”

“We’refollowinghislordship’sorders.”

“Forgetaboutthat!Youneedtocomewithme.”

Lucia stared at her impassively. “His lordship’s orders are always obeyed. Once you enter the

passage,you’llfindanetworkoftunnels.Hislordshipwillfindyou,butyoumustgonow.Theintruders
arearmed.”

Luciapushedherthroughthedoorasthesoundofheavy,bootedfootstepsechoedfromoutsidethe

library.

Someonebeganrattlingthedoorhandle.

“Hurry.”Luciapushedheragainandretreated,closingthesecretdoor.

Ravenwasleftstandingintotaldarkness.

Shefumbledwiththeflashlight,andabeamoflightshonedownthespiralstaircase.

The stairs were familiar, but Raven couldn’t remember when she’d seen them. Perhaps the night

Williamhadtakenhertoseeherstepfather.

Herstomachrolled.

Shelimpedawkwardlydownthestairs,breathingshallowlyagainstthedampair.Itsmelledmusty

andancient.

Alongcorridorlayatthefootofthestaircase,punctuatedbyaseriesofwoodendoors.

Ravenheardnoisesfromabove—loudfootfallsandraisedvoices.

Shequickenedherpace,walkingwithasmuchspeedasshecouldmustertowardthedooratthefar

endofthecorridor.

Sheheardmorefootfallsabove.Somethingbegantothudloudlyandrepeatedly.

Assheapproachedthedoorattheendofthecorridor,shesawanumberedkeypad.

She put her cane aside, fumbling for the piece of paper Lucia had thrust at her. She shone the

flashlightonitsoshecouldseethenumbers.

Someoneshoutedaboveher,andsheheardtheclatterofthingsbeingthrowntothelibraryfloor.

Withshakingfingers,shepunchedinthecode.Thekeypadbeepedatherand…

Nothing.

Shetriedthedoorandwassurprisedtofinditopenedeasily.

Blockingoutthesoundsfromthelibraryupstairs,shegrabbedhercaneandpassedthroughthedoor.

Shecloseditquicklyandleanedagainstit,takingadeepbreath.

Somethingslitheredacrossherfoot.Withoutthinkingoftheconsequences,shescreamed.

ChapterForty-Two

“W

E

C

OULD

B

LOW

T

HE

D

OOR

.”ThecommanderoftheCuria’sspecialforcesunitbangedhisfistagainst

the secret door he’d uncovered. “But the local police are probably on their way. We don’t have much
time.”

FatherKavanaughstoodnexttohiminthePrince’slibrary,holdingRaven’scellphone.“Shelefther

phone.Ihavenowayoftrackinghernow.”

“We came prepared to storm Palazzo Riccardi.” Commander Sullivan’s tone was testy, his New

Yorkaccentmorepronounced.“Youdidn’tprovideschematicsforthisbuilding.”

“Our sources told us there was a secondary residence, but no one believed it could be this one.

Therearerelicshere.”

Thecommandershrugged.“You’rethePadre.”

“Nothingattheseminarypreparedmeforthis,”Fathermuttered.

“Weagreedtoasimpleextraction,Padre,offbook.Icangiveyouuntilanhourbeforesunsetand

thenmeandmyguysarepackingupandgettingout,withorwithoutthegirl.”

Fatherstaredatthesoldierincredulously.“Wecan’tleaveher.”

“I’mnotgettinghemmedinhereafterdarkwithonlynineguys.”

Fathertuggedathisbeard.“Whatdoyousuggest?”

“We traced the SIM card in her cell phone. She was in this room until we came over the wall.

Behindthedoortherecouldbeasaferoomoraccesstoatunnel.Wecanenterthetunnelsystemoutside
anddoasweep.Butwearen’tarmedforalarge-scaleengagement.”

“Doyouhavetimetolocatetherelics?”

“Negative.Weneedtovacatebeforehostilesgetthedroponus.”

Thepriestglancedaroundtheroom.Itwasinchaos.Papersandbookshadbeenflungontheflooras

the soldiers searched for a hidden exit. They’d succeeded in antagonizing the Prince without securing
Raven.

He’dfailedhismissionandwasprobablyabouttobeoustedfromtheCuria,ifnotdefrocked.

Buthewasn’tgoingtogiveup.

“Let’sfindthetunnels,”hetoldthecommander,whoorderedhisteamtoretreat.

FathertookonelastlookaroundbeforepocketingRaven’scellphone.

ChapterForty-Three

A

OIBHE

T

OUCHED

H

ER

S

HORN

L

OCKS

, comparing them with the longer strands of her hair. She’d been

strippedofherpositionintheConsiliumandbarredfromherusualseatofhonornearthethrone.She’d
beenforcedtostandbythewall,guardedbytwosoldiers,whilethePrinceattendedtothebusinessof
state.

Ibarrahadn’tinformedherofhisplantokillapolicemanandhanghisbodyfortheworldtosee.

Shehadtoadmit,itwasadeviousandingeniouswaytodestabilizetheprincipality.Sheshouldhave

goneintohidingtoseehowitplayedout.

Now she was the Prince’s prisoner and assured of death, since she’d been unable to lead him to

Ibarra.

Shecursedhim.IfsheeverseteyesonIbarraagain,she’ddestroyhimherself.

Herpoorhair.

A vampyre’s nails and hair grew terribly slowly. It had taken decades for her to grow the long,

lustrous locks that were her crowning glory. Now her hair was horribly asymmetrical. She wanted to
weep.

“MyLord?”Ahesitantvoicecamefromthedoortothecouncilchamber.

The Prince gestured to Theodore, one of his servants from Palazzo Riccardi, to come forward.

“Whatisit?”

“An urgent message from the villa, my Lord.” As he approached the throne, Theodore glanced at

Aoibhe.

“Comecloser,”thePrincebeckoned.

The servant moved close enough to whisper. “The villa has been breached. I’m told your pet was

abletoescapeintothetunnels.”

WilliamgrippedTheodorebytheshirt.“When?”

“Within the hour. It took time for the message to be relayed because the intruders held Lucia and

Ambrogiohostage.”

“Whatnewsofmypet?”

“None,myLord.”Theodoreblinkedrapidly.“Shemuststillbeinthetunnels.”

“Find out from Ambrogio if there’s any way for her location to be determined. Report back

immediately.”

Theodorenodded,andthePrincereleasedhim.“Whatisthestateofthevilla?”

“The servants are trying to repair the damage done by the intruders.” Theodore cleared his throat.

“Ambrogioreportsthatoneofthemenworeaclericalcollarandspokeofintelligencesources.”

A strange kind of silence filled the council chamber as both the Prince and Aoibhe absorbed the

servant’sominousrevelation.

“TellAmbrogiotoreadyhimselfincaseweneedtoinitiatetheGenevaprotocol.AndfetchGregor,”

thePrinceadded,pressingafistoverhismouth.

Theservantbowedasecondtimeandscurriedaway.

“What’stheGenevaprotocol?”Aoibheasked,herexpressioncurious.

“Noneofyourconcern,”thePrincesnapped.

Wisely,Aoibheclampedhermouthshut.

Afewminuteslater,Gregorappeared,lookingagooddealmoreharriedthanusual.“MyLord?”

“Wehaveasecuritybreach.Armedmen,onewithaclericalcollar.”ThePrinceglaredathisheadof

security.“Perhapsyouweregoingtoinformmeofthis?”

“Pardon,myLord.”Gregorbowedverylow.“Iwasjustinformed.ButIcantellyouthatthepriestis

amemberoftheCuria,amancalledKavanaugh.TheteamappeartobeoneoftheCuria’sspecialforces
units.”

Aoibhegasped.

ThePrincecursed.“Howmanyarethey?”

“Aunitoften,plusthepriest,myLord.”

“Wherearetheynow?”

“TheywereseenenteringthetunnelsystemnearthePiazzaleMichelangelo.”

“Wake the army and place them on the highest alert. Send the General to me immediately. Send a

messagetoRome,informingthekingthattheCuriahasmadeanillegalincursion.Askforhissupport.

“Tell Commander Borek to put together a team of his own and have them report to me here.” The

Princestood,hisblackvelvetrobebillowingbehindhimashestrodedownthestairsfromhisthrone.

“Yes,myLord.ShallIinformthecommanderofhismission?”

ThePrincestopped.“We’rehuntingCuria.Tellthemtoarmaccordingly.”

If Gregor could have gone pale, he would have. He bowed quickly and raced out of the council

chamber,alldecorumcastaside.

“Youcan’tbeserious.”Aoibhestood,herexpressiondrawnandanxious.

The Prince glared. “At the moment, there are only eleven of them. They must be destroyed before

othersjointhem.EveniftheRomansendssoldiersimmediatelyusingmoderntransport,theywon’tarrive
beforesunset.Wehavenochoicebuttoengagetheinvadersnow.”

“Wecan’tfighttheCuriaandwin.”

“But we can die trying.” He gave her a challenging look. “You have a chance to extend your life,

Aoibhe.Joinmeordieonthespot.”

Aoibhewithdrewastep.“Youwouldcommitsuicide?Forwhat?Acity?Apet?”

ThePrince’seyesglittered.“I’vegrowntiredofyourinsolence.Choose.”

Shewatchedhimforalongmoment.Shenodded.

ThePrinceturnedonhisheelandapproachedthedoor,withAoibhetrailingafterhim.

ChapterForty-Four

R

AVEN

S

CREAMED

andnearlydroppedtheflashlight.

Thethingthathadcrawledoverherfootretreated,itsownfeetmakingascratchingnoiseagainstthe

harddirtfloor.

Sheshonethelightaheadinthetunnelandsawalargerattrottingaway.Itturnedandstaredbackat

her.

Sheshivered.

Thetunnelwasdamp,andthescentofearthanddecayfilledhernostrils.

Shekeptherflashlightpointedtowardthegroundinfrontofherassheleanedonhercane,hereyes

dartingwarilytoandfro.

Whenshe’dgoneathousandfeet,shepulledoutthecellphone.Itwasdifferentfromherown,but

simplyarranged.Therewereonlyafewapplicationsvisibleonthescreen.

Unfortunately,shecouldn’tgetasignal.

It took patience and a few minutes to check out the different applications, but eventually she

discovereda compass. Shefound north, whichmeant she could walkin the directionof the city center.
She doubted the tunnels were dug in straight lines. That, coupled with her disability, made the journey
fromthePiazzaleMichelangelotothecitycenterseeminterminable.

Ravenputthephoneaway,sinceitwasimpossibletoholdit,theflashlight,andhercaneallatonce.

She continued walking through the tunnel, pausing from time to time in an effort to hear whether

someone was coming. All she could hear was the occasional scurry of rats or the distant sound of
drippingwater.

Afewtimesshepassedothertunnelsthatbranchedoff.Oneachoccasionshestoppedtocheckher

compass,continuingtotravelnorth.

She’dbeenonfootforalmostanhourwhenshefeltthehairsliftonthebackofherneck.Asudden

gustofwindswirledpasther.

Somethingyankedtheflashlightoutofherhandandswitcheditoff.Shehearditthudtotheground.

Alowlaughsoundednearby.

She was bathed in absolute darkness, completely disoriented. Something cool grabbed her wrist,

toyingwiththebraceletWilliamhadgivenher.

“HereisthePrince’spet.Whereisyourmaster?”

Shepulledherarmaway,shrinkingfromthedirectionofthevoice.“He’srightbehindme.”

Thevoicesoundedamused.“Idoubtthat.ItseemsthePrincehaslefthispreciouspetallalone.How

carelessofhim.”

“Whoareyou?”

Thevoicelaughedagain.

Raven’sheartbegantopound.Sheheldherhandout,attemptingtolocatethewallsoshecouldinch

alongit.“Showyourself.”

Thevoicemovedcloser.“Revealthespidertothefly?Thisisfarmoreentertaining.”

“If you’re weak.” Raven’s hand found the wall and she began moving, tightening her grip on her

cane.

“Weak?”

“Ifyou’reavampyre,youcanseeinthedark.Ithoughtsuchapowerfulspecieswouldn’tneedan

advantage.”

Thevoicegrowled.

Ravenliftedhercane,wieldingitasaweapon.

Outofthedarkness,theflashlightswitchedon,shininginRaven’sdirection.

“IknowwhatIlooklike,”shecomplained,squintingagainstthebrightlight.“Whoareyou?”

The light swung away, and Raven saw the figure of a male vampyre with thick, dark hair and

glittering,darkeyes.

Hesmiled,armsstretchedwide.“Iamtheresurrectionofthedead.”

ChapterForty-Five

A

T

T

HE

S

IGHT

O

F

H

IS

L

IEUTENANT

,theRomantossedthemanhe’dbeenfeedingfromaside,unhurriedly

arranginghisimperialrobestocoverhislowerbody.

The naked man fell to the floor and was quickly removed from the throne room by a pair of

Praetorianguards.

The Roman wiped blood from his mouth with the back of his hand. “Am I never to have pleasure

withoutinterruption?”

He turned his back on his lieutenant and ascended the steps to the throne. He arranged his robes

leisurely,lickinghislips.

“I beg pardon, your excellency, but you gave permission for me to enter.” Cato walked briskly

towardthethrone.

“Cave,”theRomangrowled.

Catoprostratedhimselfbeforehisruler.

“Whyareyouhere?”TheRoman’svoiceresumeditsnormaltone.

“There are disturbing reports from Florence.” Cato’s voice was muffled, as he spoke against the

mosaictilefloor.

“Getup.”

Cato struggled to stand, his toga catching beneath one of his feet. “A policeman was found dead,

naked,anddrainedofhisbloodinapiazzainthecitycenter.”

“And?”

Catofrowned.“Panichasensued,yourexcellency.Photographsofthebodyhavebeensentaround

theworld.TherearediscussionsabouttheexistenceofvampyresinFlorenceandthesuggestionthatthe
policemanwasmurderedbyone.”

TheRoman’sgazefellononeofthefrescoes.Hestudieditintently,butofferednocomment.

“Yourexcellency,althoughwehaven’treceivedanyformalcommunicationfromtheCuria,ourspies

haverevealedthatasmallgroupofblackrobeshasenteredFlorence.”

“Asmallgroupofblackrobeswon’tfellthecity.Mysonisstrongerthanthat.”

“Ifthehumanpopulationisinchaosandthesuggestionthatvampyresexistbeginstotakeroot,the

Curiawillactingreaternumbers.”

TheRomanturnedpeeringeyestohislieutenant.“HasthePrincerequestedourassistance?”

“Yes, a message has just arrived.” Cato lifted his eyes. “Florence is unstable. Clearly, one of the

Prince’ssubjectsisattemptingtounseathim.HesurvivedaVenetianassassinationattemptonlytocrusha
coupashorttimeago.Nowthereisthepublicdisplayofadeadpoliceman.”

“Unstable,”theRomanrepeated,closinghiseyes.

“TheCuriaknowsyousupportFlorence.Thatistheonlyreasontheyhavenotmarchedonthecity.”

TheRomanremainedsilent.

Catofrowned.Hemovedabitclosertothethrone.“TherearepreciousfewoldonesleftinItaly.

There’sSimonettaofUmbria,butshe’scontentwheresheisandwouldneverchallengeyou.ThePrince
ofFlorencemight.”

TheRoman’seyesopened.“Whatarewespeakingabout?”

Cato’seyebrowsdrewtogether.“Yourson,excellency,thePrinceofFlorence.”

TheRomanclosedhiseyesagain.“Ah,yes.Mybelovedson.”

Catocoughedtheatrically.ButtheRomandidnotopenhiseyes.

“IfImayspeakfreely,excellency,IbelievethePrince’svisitwasaruse.”

“Towhatend?”

“It’sclearhehassomestrangeattachmenttohispet.WhyelsewouldherisktheireoftheCuriaand

cometoyouforsupport?HesoundslikeFaustusofSardinia.”

Now the Roman’s eyes opened. “You believe Florence’s conflict with the Curia is caused by the

pet?”

“TheCuriawantsit.ThePrincewantsit.ThePrincewonthelastcontestofwillsbyinvokingyour

alliance.ButanexsanguinatedpolicemaninfullviewofthehumanpopulationiscertaintoattractVatican
attention,evenifthepetwerenotanissue.”

“IfFlorenceisnotunderattack,Ihavenoneedtodefendit.”

Catopaused,conflictedastowhetherornotheshouldpressthematter.Itwasnotinhisinterestas

anambitiouslieutenanttoencouragetheRomantogotowar.Butthekingwascapriciousandlikelyto
blamehimforanymissteps.

“ShallIsendwordtoFlorencethatwewillnotsendtroops?”

“Tellmysonhehasmyconfidencethathecanbestafewblackrobes.”TheRomanfocusedonthe

frescotohisright,theimageofayoungandbeautifulmandressedinDominicanrobesbeingchangedby
an older, dark-haired man. “Order him to surrender the pet to the Curia and put an end to this petty
squabble.

“I am hungry and require another feeding.” He bared his fangs. “Send in another, something young

andfresh.”

Cato watched his ruler’s expression carefully, surprised by the non sequitur. “I shall procure

somethingforyouimmediately.”

“Youaredismissed.”TheRomanclosedhiseyesonceagain.

Catobowed,hissmilegrowingwiderashequitthethroneroom.

ChapterForty-Six

T

HE

V

AMPYRE

S

MILED

,armsstretchedwide.“Iamtheresurrectionofthedead.”

Ravenfrowned.“Andaplagiarist.I’veheardthatlinebefore.”

Hestudiedherforamoment.Hissmilewidened.“Youareawit.”

“Andyouare?”Sheliftedhereyebrows.

“IamIbarraoftheEuskaldunak.”Hebowedtheatrically.“Lateheadofsecurityfortheprincipality

ofFlorenceandformerConsiliummember.”

“Former?Whathappened?”Ravenstalled.

“Yourmasterexecutedme.”

Ravenmadeashowofinspectinghisbody,whichseemedveryfit.“Youdon’tlookexecuted.”

“Howisityoucametobewanderingthesetunnelsallalone?”hesnapped.

“I’mnotalone.Itoldyou,thePrinceiswithme.”

“Idon’tseehim.Perhapshe’sathisvilla,resting.”Ibarramovedastepcloser.“Youaren’tunder

mindcontrol,thatmuchiscertain.Feedingfromyouwillbeallthemorepleasurable.”

Ravencringed.Shehadhercaneinhand,butevenifshestruckhim,shecouldneveroutrunhim.She

wonderedifshecouldoutsmarthim.

“If you’re going to feed from me, can we at least move somewhere more comfortable? It’s damp

downhere,andI’mwearingsandals.”

Ibarra laughed, and the sound echoed. “So the Prince’s pet doesn’t mind someone else feasting on

her.Perhapsthereasonyou’reinthistunnelallaloneisbecausethePrincetiredofyou?”

Raven’sheartpounded.IfIbarrathoughtWilliamnolongerwantedher,he’dprobablykillher.

Shepretendedtobeinsulted,stickinghernoseintheair.“Ofcoursehehasn’ttiredofme.Hefed

frommeashorttimeago.”Shetouchedthebitemarkonherneck.

Ibarrastoodinfrontofherandpressedtwocoldfingerstoherthroat.

Hisdarkeyesmethers.“It’sapityhefedfromyousorecently.Iintendtouseyouhardbeforeletting

himknowIhaveyou.Ican’thaveyoudyingonme.”

His hand smoothed down her neck and trailed across her collarbone, which was exposed in her

sundress.

Raven’shandtightenedonhercane.Sheknewifsheattackedhimnow,hewouldlikelyknockher

unconsciousorworse.

Surely William was aware of the security breach at the villa by now. He would come looking for

her.HerbestchanceforsurvivalwithoutseriousinjurywastoaccompanyIbarrawillingly.

Sheplacedahandonherhip.“CanIhavetheflashlight?Ican’tseeverywell.”

Ibarraswitchedtheflashlightoff.Acrashsounded,asifhe’dthrownitagainstthewall.

“Ican’tsee!”Ravenprotested.

“Isupposeyou’llhavetostaywithme.”Ibarragrabbedherelbow.Hebeganpullingherforward.

Ravencontinuedtousehercane,exaggeratingherdisabilitysoastoslowtheirpacetoacrawl.

“Faster,” Ibarra hissed, almost pulling her off her feet. “I’d like to make it to new quarters before

sunset.”

“I’mgoingasfastasIcan.”

Ibarratuggedhercaneoutofherhandandthrewitaway,thenliftedherintohisarms.

“Muchmorecomfortable.”Hisnosebrushedherneck.“Yousmelldelicious.”

“Ihavetogotothebathroom.”

Ibarraliftedhishead.“What?”

“I have to use the toilet. Can we move this along?” Raven squinted against the darkness, trying to

see.Butitwasnouse.

“Humansaredisgusting,”Ibarramuttered.

“Vampyresareparasites,”sheretorted.

Ibarraignoredherremarkandstartedjoggingthroughthetunnel.

Ravenkepthereyesclosed.

Shewasforcedtoplaceherarmbehindhisneck,simplytohangon.Ibarramovedatahighrateof

speed,jostlingherfromtimetotime.

Heseemedtoenjoyit,however.

Theyranforsometime,andallthewhile,Raven’smindracedfromscenariotoscenario,tryingto

thinkofameansofescape.Ifhetookhertoahousethathadabathroom,perhapsshecouldcrawloutthe
window.Itwasatthatmomentsherememberedthecellphoneinherpocket.

ShehopedIbarrawouldn’tfindit.

Hervampyrecaptormadeanumberofturns,somanythatRavenhadnoideainwhatdirectionthey

wereheaded.

Abruptly,hestopped.Hisbodywentstill.

“Whatisit?”Sheopenedhereyes.

“Listen,”hewhispered.

Ravencouldn’thearanything.“What’shappening?”

Ibarraplacedheronherfeetandshovedheragainstthewall,puttinghisbodyinfrontofhers.“Be

quiet,”heordered.

Ravenpressedherselfagainstthedampearth,shrinkingawayfromhim.

Hesimplymovedcloser,hisbackflushwithherfront.

Ravendidn’tliketheexperienceofbeingpressedagainstdampdirtbyIbarra,butshesurmisedhe

wastryingtocoverher,andperhapsmaskherscentaswell.

Shestrainedherearsfortheslightestsound.

Inthedistance,shecouldhearalowhum.

Thehumgrewlouderasitapproached,morphingintothefrenziedcacophonyofmultiplefootsteps.

A gust of wind swirled past, accompanied by the pounding of feet, as if a herd of animals was

stampedingtowardthem.Ravencringedastheterriblenoiseapproached,alongwiththesoundsofcurses
andshoving.

Sheheldherbreath,worryingshewoulddrawthecreatures’attention.

ThenIbarra’sbodywasgone.

“Whatisit?What’shappening?”heasked.

“Curia.Inthetunnels,”apanickedvoiceresponded.

“Curia?Areyousure?”Ibarrasoundedincredulous.

“Theyfelledfourofus.They’rerightbehindme!”

Thereweresoundsofastruggleandthenoiseoffootfallsmovingaway.

Ibarrainhaled,slowlyanddeeply.

“Ican’tscentthem.Weneedtorun.”Hisvoicewastight.

He hefted Raven over his shoulder and took off. She fisted the fabric of his shirt with both hands,

tryingtohangon.

ChapterForty-Seven

F

ATHER

K

AVANAUGH

W

AITED

at the entrance to the tunnel for the special forces unit to secure it. The

commanderinchargehadgivenhimacommunicationslinksohecouldspeakwiththeteam.Hewasnot
invitedtojointhem.

Hehadnointentionofretreating.Hewasarmedwithholywaterandrelicsandwillingtolaydown

hislifeforthewomanhethoughtofasadaughter.Evenso,hefollowedorders,pacingtheentrancewhile
thesoldiersattemptedtotrackRaven.

He’dbeenwaitingabouttwentyminuteswhenheheardfootsteps.

Heexitedtheentranceandwiselystoodinsunlight,partiallyhiddenbyanobligingtree.

Sullivanandhismenranoutofthetunnel.Thecommanderspottedthepriestandsignaledtohimto

followthem.

“Weranintoanest.Wetookdownfour,andtheothersretreated,butourmissioniscompromised.

Weneedtoevacuatenow.”Sullivan’stonewasabrupt.

Fatherstruggledtokeepupwithhim.“Anysignofher?”

“Negative.Wedidn’tgetveryfar.”Thecommandergesturedtohismentoincreasetheirpace.

They jogged about a mile to where two black Suburbans had been parked and climbed in. The

enginesroaredtolife,andtheyscreechedawayfromthecurb.

Father’scellphonevibrated.

Heglancedatthescreen.TheDirectorofIntelligenceoftheCuriahadsenthimatext.

Updateyourpositionandstatusimmediately.

Fatherwasnotinthehabitofcursing,butacursewordortwoenteredhisconsciousness.(Also,he

wasnotinthehabitoftexting.)

Heignoredthemessageandreturnedhisphonetohispocket.

Sullivan,whowasseatedinthefrontpassengerseat,turnedaroundtolookathim.“Isthattheold

man?”

Fathernodded.

“Inafewminutes,everyonewillknowwe’rehere.”Thecommanderjerkedhischinatthedriver.

“Steponit.”

Thepriest’sphonevibratedagainastheSuburbansformedamilitaryconvoyandspedawayfrom

thevilla.

OtherCuriaagentsareinsidethecity.

Adviseofyourpositionandstatusimmediately.

NowFathercursedaloud.

“Padre?”Sullivanaddressedhim.

“ThereareotherCuriaagentsinsidethecity.Ihavetomakecontact.”

Thecommanderswore.

FatherKavanaughtouchedthescreenonhisphoneandpressedthedevicetohisear.

The intelligence director answered on the first ring. “I know you’re in Florence, and I know who

you’rewith.Advisemeofyourposition.”

“Duringourincursion,wediscoveredthatthePrince’sresidencehousedsomepowerfulrelics.”

Therewasashortpauseontheotherendoftheline.“Areyousure?”

“Yes.Wetracedthepettoavilla,andlocalintelligenceconfirmedit’stheprimaryresidence.The

unitI’mwithcancorroboratethepresenceofrelics.”

“Whereareyou?”

“NeartheChurchofSanMiniato,headingtothehighway.We’reonourwayout.”

Thedirector’svoicewasloudenoughtofillthevehicle.“YouaretoproceedtotheJesuitsafehouse

neartheDuomo,immediately.”

Thecommanderrippedthephoneoutofthepriest’shand.

“Sir, this is Sullivan. We did a sweep of an underground tunnel and encountered a nest. Several

hostilesescapedbeforetheycouldbeneutralized.Weneedtoevacuate.”

“Thisisadirectorder.Thereareoverahundredagentsinsidethecity.Threecenturiesofsoldiers

areenroutefromRome.YouaretoreporttothesafehouseandtakeyourordersfromGeneralVale.”

“Yes,sir.Ididn’tknowtheGeneralwashere.”

“Asalways,thereisapointtomyorders,whichiswhyIapprovedyourmission.”

FatherKavanaughsputteredattherevelation.

“Yes,Jesuit,”thedirectorpatronized.“Iknewexactlywhatyouwereplanning,andIgaveSullivan

and his team permission to accept your proposal because I wanted them inside the city.” The director
paused.“Providentially,theRomanhaswithdrawnhissupportuntilthePrincesurrendersthegirl.Thatis
all.”

Thecommanderdisconnectedthecallandtossedthecellphonebacktothepriest.

“MakeaU-turn,”Sullivanorderedthedriver.“We’regoingdowntown.”

Thecommanderflickedonhiscommunicationlink.“Rovertwo,changeofplans.We’repullingaU-

turnandheadingdowntown.Over.”

“Copythat,”thedriverofthesecondvehiclereplied.

FatherKavanaughcrossedhimself,andhishandwenttotherelichecarriedinhispocket.“War?”

Thecommanderkepthiseyesfixedontheroad.“Theydon’tsendGeneralValetoteaparties.”

ChapterForty-Eight

I

BARRA

S

PRINTED

A

S

F

AST

ashecouldwhileRavenbouncedonhisshoulder,herskirtsflying.

She clutched at his shirt, a myriad of thoughts rattling in her mind. She hoped the vampyres had

mistakenhuntersfortheCuria.Butthatseemedlikearemotepossibility.

HerthoughtsmovedtoWilliam.IftheCuriahadenteredFlorence,theymusthavedonesoignoring

theRoman’ssupport.ShewonderedhowmanyCuriasoldierswereinsidethecity.Shewonderedifwar
hadbegun.

They’dbeenrunningfortenminuteswhenIbarraslowed.Heturnedinacircle,hisbodytense,asif

hewerecombingthesilenttunnelsforsound.

“Theyaren’tfollowingus.”Hisbodyrelaxedsomewhat.“Whoevertheyare.”

“Doyouthinkit’stheCuria?”

Ibarra’sbodyjerked.“Youknowaboutthem?”

“I’mthePrince’spet,remember?Ihearthings.”

IbarrasworeinBasque.“IftheCuriaarehere,thedeviltakeusall.”

Ravenruminatedonthatforamoment.

Then,withoutwarning,shefoundherselfflyingthroughtheair.

Somethingreachedouttocatchher.

Stillsurroundedbydarkness,shewasconfused.Cursingandscufflingcouldbeheardcloseby.

Ravenwasplacedonherfeet,andthepersonwho’dcaughtherwithdrew.

“YoushouldhavestayedinRome.”AnIrish-accentedvoicespoke.“You’rethemostunluckyhuman

I’veevermet.”

“Aoibhe.”Raven’svoicewasshaky.

Thevampyresniffedinresponse.

“William?”Ravengropedforhiminthedarkness.

Afamiliarhandstrokedherface.“Areyouinjured?”

She grabbed his hand. “There are Curia soldiers in the tunnel. A group of vampyres ran past us,

sayingthey’dbeenattacked.”

“Isthattrue?”ThePrinceseemedtoturnawayfromher.

“True.”Ibarragroaned,hisvoicecomingfromtheground.

“Howmany?”

“Ididn’tstaytocountthem,”Ibarraretorted.

“CaptainBorek,takeyourmenandcontinueintothetunnel.IfyouencounterCuriasoldiers,engage

them.Sendoneofyourmenbacktoreportyourposition,”thePrincecommanded.

“Yes,sir,”Borekreplied.

Ravenheardfootstepspass,echoinginthetunnel.

“Aoibhe,escortthetraitortothecouncilchamber.Ifeitherofyoutriestoescape,I’llripyourheads

off.”ThePrince’scalmtonebeliedthethreatinhiswords.

HepulledRavenagainsthischestandflewwithherthroughthetunnel.

ChapterForty-Nine

“Y

OU

T

OUCHED

W

HAT

I

S

M

INE

.”ThePrincewasquiet,butloudenoughtobeheardinthegreatcouncil

chamber.

Ibarrastoodbeforethethrone,flankedbytensoldiers.

AtthePrince’sbehest,Ravensatinachairtohisright,watchingthepoliticsofrealityunfold.

TheBasquespatontheground.“Youexecutedme.”

“Itseemsyoufoundyourhead.”ThePrince’sgazeflickeredtoAoibhe.“Orrather,someonefoundit

foryou.

“IbarraoftheEuskaldunak,didyoukillapolicemanandsuspendhisbodyintheLoggiadeiLanzi?”

“Yes.”

“DidAoibheassistyou?”

Ibarragrimaced.“Iactedalone.”

“Youlie.YouhavecommittedtreasonagainsttheprincipalityofFlorence,andyouhaveviolatedour

treatywiththeCuria.Foryourpunishment,youaretobehelduntilyoucanbedeliveredtothem.Unlike
mine,theirexecutionwillnodoubtbesuccessful.”

Ibarra took a step forward, but was restrained by a soldier. “Execute me now. Death at your hand

wouldatleastbehonorable.”

The Prince looked incredulous. “After betraying the principality that protected you for so many

years,youbegforanhonorabledeath?”

“Ibegfornothing.Iwasloyal.”Ibarrapushedthesoldieraside.“ItwasLorenzoandNiccolòwho

betrayedyouandmademeascapegoat.”

“Youfailedinyourdutiesasheadofsecurityandwereexecutedaccordingly.Now,becauseAoibhe

returnedyourhead,Imusthaveyouexecutedagain.”ThePrincelaidheavyemphasisonthelastword.
“YoubroughttheCuriaherewithyouranarchicact.Youwillenduretheirwrath.AndAoibheofHibernia,
whobetrayedtheprincipalityinassistingyou,willjoinyou.”

ThePrincenoddedatthesoldiersamidstAoibhe’sloudandvocalprotests.“Wehadanagreement!

Yougavemeyourword!”

ThePrince’svoicewasthunderous.“Youbetrayedmebyallyingyourselfwithatraitor.”

AsolidertookholdofIbarra’sarm,andIbarrapushedhimaside.“Youknowwhattheywilldotous.

You’ddeliverustoourenemiestobetortured?”

“KillingapolicemanandhanginghiminapublicsquareattractedtheattentionoftheCuria.Youlive

bythesword,youmustbepreparedtodiebythesword.”ThePrince’sgrayeyesglittered.

“IcapturedtheVenetianwhotriedtoendyourlife.IservedFlorencewithhonor!”

“SaveyourcurriculumvitaefortheCuriainquisition.”

IbarrasnarledandrantowardRaven,teethbared.

Inamovementsoswiftitwasablur,thePrinceblockedIbarra’spath.Heswunghisrightarmand

struckIbarrainthechest.

Ibarrawentflyingbackward,severalfeetintheair,untilhecamecrashingtothestonefloornearthe

entrancetothechamber.Helayonthefloor,unmoving.

“The next one who attempts to touch my pet will be destroyed.” The Prince turned his threatening

gazeonAoibhe,whoappearedreadytostrike.“Iamanoldone,sonoftheRomanhimself.Ihavestrength
andabilitiesyoucanonlyimagine.Opposemeatyourperil.”

SilencefilledthecouncilchamberatthePrince’srevelation;thesoldiersgazedathiminshock.

Headjustedhisrobeandregainedhisthrone.“Takethetraitorstotheholdingcellsandawaitfurther

instructions.”

“Thisisamistake!”Aoibheshouted.“IftheCuriaishere,youneedmyhelp!”

“Getheroutofmysight.”

“I’veservedyouforyears!Thisismypayment?You’regoingtoturnmeovertotheblackrobes?”

Two soldiers approached, and a struggle ensued. She felled them both and disarmed a third,

wieldinghissword.

“I’ve waited years for my chance at the throne!” She shook with anger. “Fight me yourself, you

coward.”

ThePrinceliftedadaggerfromhisbeltandhurleditthroughtheair.ItstruckAoibhe’shand.

Shehowledanddroppedhersword.

“Takethemaway.”ThePrincelookedatthetraitorsindisgust.“Keepclosewatchonbothofthem.”

FoursoldierspinnedAoibhe’sarmstohersides,evenasblackbloodwelleduparoundthedagger

stickingoutofherhand.

AnothersoldierhelpedtheBasquetohisfeetandledhim,limping,tothedoor.

Raven twisted her hands in her lap, visibly shaken. Her green eyes were active, watching the

soldiers’retreatingbacksbeforecomingtorestonthePrince’sface.

Heplacedhiscoolhandoverhers.“Areyouallright?”

Shemanagedaquicknod.

“Iamsorryittookmesolongtogettoyourside.”William’sexpressionwasblank,asifhewere

concealingsomething.“Whenyouwereinthetunnels,didhetouchyou?”

“No,”Ravencroaked.

She cleared her throat before continuing. “He threatened me, but we were interrupted by the

vampyresfleeingtheCuria.”

“Youshouldnothavebeenplacedatrisk.Ineverexpectedtheywouldattackthevilla.”

“FatherKavanaughcalledmeonmycellphonerightbeforethetrespasserscameontoyourproperty.

HemusthavebeentracingtheSIMcard.”

“Isthedevicewithyounow?”

“No.Luciagavemeanother.”Shewithdrewthephonefromherpocket.

“If your priest was behind the incursion, it was probably a small group of soldiers intent on

liberatingyou.”

“He doesn’t understand I’ve been liberated already,” Raven remarked. “He refuses to listen to me

andtowhatIwant.”

William squeezed her hand. “Although the experience is not one I would have wished for, it’s a

preferable scenario to an invasion. Since the priest failed, he and his men will probably retreat. I will
makearrangementstohandAoibheandIbarraoverofficially.”

Ravenshivered,farfromcomfortedbyhisanalysis.

A guard entered the council chamber and strode up the aisle. “A member of the security team

requestsanaudience,myLord.”

“Showhimorherin.”ThePrincereleasedRaven’shand.

The guard bowed and returned to the door, opening it and escorting a young vampyre into the

chamber.Thetwofiguresmarcheduptheaisle.

Theyoungvampyrewasdressedcasuallyinawhiteshirtandjeans.Helookedtobenomorethan

twenty.

ThePrincewavedhimcloser.

“Pardon, my Lord.” The young one bowed jerkily. “I am Emiliano, from the security team. I just

deliveredamessagetoLordGregor,andhesentmetoyou.”

“Iknowwhoyouare.Whatisthemessage?”

“Ours-spiesinRome—”theyoungvampyrestuttered.“OurspiesinRomesentanurgentmessage

warningusthatCuriasoldiersareontheirway.”

“Isthisreportinreferencetotheelevenmenwhohavealreadyenteredthecity?”

“No,myLord.ThisisareportofamassivemovementoftroopsfromRome.”

ThePrincesatforward.“Arethesourcesreliable?”

“Wecheckedwithmorethanone.Therearecivilianreportsaswell.”

ThePrince’shandcurledintoafist.“Howmany?”

“Atleastthreecenturies.”

“Sard.”

Emilianoduckedhishead,wringinghishandsinfrontofhim.

“Howlongbeforetheyarrive?”

“Wearetrackingtheirmovements,butweexpecttheminlessthanthreehours.”

“Send word to the Princess of Umbria, warning her of the incursion. Ask that she send Umbrian

troopstotheborderinsupportofouralliance.”

“Yes,myLord.”

“SendamessagetoVenice,orderingthemtosendsupportingtroopsassoonaspossible.Andsenda

messagetoAmbrogioatmyresidence,orderinghimtoinitiatetheGenevaprotocol.FindGregor.Ineed
tospeakwithhim.Now.”

Emilianobowedonceagainandranattopspeedtothedoor,farinadvanceofthesoldierwhowas

supposedtobeescortinghim.Bothvampyresdisappearedintothecorridor.

“Soldiers?”Ravenwhispered.

The Prince nodded tersely. “Your priest must have been attempting to rescue you before the

invasion.”

“Doesthismeanwar?”

The Prince looked grim. “The Curia wouldn’t send three hundred soldiers from Rome unless they

wereintentonwar.”

“Whatwillwedo?”

“We have the support of the Roman. I’ll send an urgent message asking for reinforcements.

Hopefully,theUmbriansandtheVenetianswillsendsoldiersaswell.”

Raven met his gaze and offered a sympathetic look, but the paleness of her complexion belied her

calm.

“IftheCuriafeartheRoman,whywouldtheyprovokehim?”

“I don’t know.” William was pensive. “Perhaps this is a show of force in order to motivate the

signingofanewtreaty.Vampyresaresupposedtokeeptheirexistencehidden.Ibarrafloutedthetreaty.”

Hetouchedherhand,andshegrippedhimtightly.

“Pardon,myLord.”Gregorannouncedhisarrival,bowingjustasheenteredthechamber.

“Gregor,I’vejustspokenwithEmiliano.IwantyoutosendanurgentmessagetotheRoman,asking

himtosendreinforcementsimmediately.”

“Yes, my Lord.” Gregor eyed Raven as he approached the throne. “But I have news you should

hear.”

“Proceed.”

“Thisnewswouldbebetterspokeninyourprivateear.”

“Youmayspeakfreely.”

Gregor swallowed noisily, giving one last fleeting glance to Raven. “The Roman replied to our

initialrequestforsupport.”Heheldoutapieceofpaper.

ThePrincesnatcheditfromhishand.Hereadthemessagequickly.“Wastherenootheranswer?”

“No, my Lord. As you can see, Lieutenant Cato sent the message electronically so it would be

receivedquickly.”

“Wasthesenderconfirmed?”

“Yes,itarrivedasasecurecommunication.”

The Prince tossed the paper back. “Clearly, Rome has not heard about the movement of troops.

Informthekingwewillshortlybeundersiegeandneedhisimmediateintervention.”

Gregorretrievedthepaperfromthefloor.“Andtheothermatter?”HiseyesmovedtoRaven.

“SendthemessageasIcommanded,andsenditnow!”Williamsnarled,hisangergettingthebetter

ofhim.

Withoutthought,Ravenreachedoutandplacedherhandonhisarm.

“Yes,myLord.”Gregorflewdowntheaisleandoutofthechamber.

Once the door closed behind the head of security, Raven turned to William. “What did the Roman

say?”

The Prince paced in agitation in front of the throne. “It wasn’t the Roman; it was Cato. I can’t be

certaintheRomanevensawmyinitialcommunication.”

Ravenstoodonuneasyfeet,blockingWilliam’spacing.“WhatdidCatosay?”

“HesaidIwastohandyouovertotheCuriaandputanendtotheconflict.”

Ravengasped.“IsthatwhytheCuriaaresendingtroops?Becauseofme?”

“No. Why would your priest come for you with ten soldiers when he could have come with three

hundred?”Williamshookhishead.“SomethinghaschangedsinceyourpriestleftRome.”

Heclosedhiseyesandliftedhischin,hisbodygoingstill.

Ravenwatchedhim,wonderingwhathewasdoing.

Atlength,heopenedhiseyes.Alookofcoldresignationshonefromthegraydepths.

“TheCuriaisgamblingthatiftheymarchonFlorence,theRomanwon’tintervene.Perhapstheyare

colluding with Cato. Perhaps the Roman has been led to believe the Curia is willing to wage a war in
ordertorescueyou.”

“IfIwenttoFatherwillingly,woulditavertawar?”

“No,forIwouldbeobligedtocomeafteryou.”

Ravenencircledhiswaistwithherarms.“Wecouldescape.Wecouldleavethecitynowbeforethe

soldierscome.”

“Nowisnotthetimetoflee,notwhenIhaveachancetosavethecity.TheCuriaareangryaboutthe

policeman.IcanhandoverAoibheandIbarratoplacatethem.

“Hopefully, my message will make it past Cato to the Roman himself. We can try to hold off the

troopsuntiltheyarrive.”

“Isthatpossible?”Ravenwhispered.

“Possible,yes.Likely,no.”Williambowedhisheadtowardhers.

ChapterFifty

“M

Y

O

RDERS

A

RE

C

LEAR

, and they come from the Superior General himself: destroy the Prince of

Florence.”GeneralValeaddressedagroupofCuriaagentswhohadgatheredintheJesuitsafehouse.

“Forsomereason,thePrinceisresistanttorelicsandperhapsabletowalkonholyground.Wedon’t

knowifhehasotheranomalousabilities.”

Murmursliftedfromthegroup.

“OurprimaryobjectiveistodestroythePrincebeforeheisabletocreateanarmyofanomalieslike

him.Tothatend,mysecondincommandistransportingtroopshereaswespeak.”TheGeneralwalked
overtoanaerialviewofFlorencethathe’dprojectedontoascreen.

A priest in black stood. “The Prince is an old one. How do we know he hasn’t created an army

already?”

“We have multiple agents inside the city, some of whom are in this room. None of them have

observedFlorentinesoldierswithanyspecialpowers.IntheconflictbetweenVeniceandFlorence,the
Florentinesdemonstratednoexceptionalabilities.”

“WhatabouttheRoman?”Thepriestpersisted.“IheardtheRomanisthePrince’smaker,andthathe

hasvowedtoprotecthim.”

“TheRoman’sthreathasbeenneutralized.”

LoudmurmursandwhispersfilledtheroomuntiltheGeneralcalledthegrouptoattention.

FatherKavanaughsurveyedtheroomfromhisvantagepointnearthedoor.Someoftheagentswere

male,somefemale.Someweredressedintherobesofanorder,someworeplainclothes.Andthenthere
wasthespecialforcesunit,whichlinedthebackwallliketall,silenttrees.

Father stood apart from the others, his hand in his pocket. What had begun as a simple rescue

missionhadevolvedintoawar,somethinghe’dhopedtheycouldhaveavoided.

DespitetheCuria’spowers,someoftheagentsintheroomwoulddie.Therewouldbedestruction

and mayhem. Those vampyres that escaped the Curia would flee to other cities, possibly disturbing the
current balance in Europe. As always when the supernatural world went into upheaval, human lives
wouldbelost.

Raven’slifecouldbelost.

Father felt the weight of his actions. Although he was sure his cause was just, he questioned the

methodsofhissuperiors.

Therehadtobeanotherway.

ChapterFifty-One

A

OIBHE

W

ASN’T

S

TUPID

.

She couldn’t remember much about her life before she became a vampyre. But she remembered

beingpoorandbeautiful.SherememberedherbeautycatchingtheeyeofarichEnglishlord,who’draped
herandsentherbacktoherfamilyinshame.

She remembered the boy she’d loved—who she’d known since childhood—telling her he couldn’t

loveheranymore.

Asavampyre,she’dalwaysbeenambitious.SheknewthePrinceofFlorencewastoopowerfulto

challenge,soshe’dseducedhim.She’dhoped,overtime,she’dbeabletoconvincehimtoraiseherto
consortsotheycouldruleFlorencetogether,untilhemetanuntimelydeathatherhand(shouldshecatch
himataweakmoment)oruntilheapproachedhisthousandyearsandmadnessensued.

Thenhe’dmetthepet.

Aoibhehadbeenpresentthenighthekilledthreemenbecausethey’dtouchedit.She’dseentheway

helookedatthepet—asifhecaredaboutit,andformorethanjustsexandblood.

Nowthepetsatnexttothethroneplayingtheroleofconsort,andshewasonherwaytotheCuria.

Aoibhe had survived by relying on her wits both before and after her transformation. She wasn’t

about to abandon them now. She wasn’t about to be handed over to the black robes like a lamb to the
slaughter.

Asshemarchedtowardtheprincipality’sdungeon,shetriedtomakeeyecontactwithIbarra.

Itwasnouse.Hewastoofarbehindher,andseveralsoldiersstoodinbetween.

Nomatter.

Aoibheeyedthedaggerstillembeddedinherhandasanideaformedinhermind.

When they approached the point at which the tunnel split into several different passages, one of

whichleddowntothedungeons,shepitchedforward.

“Ah!”shecried,feigningpainasshefell.

Thesoldiersaroundherstopped,whilethesoldiersguardingIbarracontinuedmarching.

Oneofthesoldiersextendedhishandtoher.

Shemanufacturedamoan,waitinguntilIbarradrewcloser.

Shepulledthedaggeroutofherhandandrosetoherknees,stickingtheweaponintothesoldier’s

belly.Shewrencheditfromlefttoright,almostrippinghiminhalf.

Thesoldierfelltohisknees,graspinghisinnardswithbothhandsastheyspilledfromthewound.

Withthesoldiersthusdistracted,Ibarradisarmedoneoftheguardsandbeheadedhim,thenthrusthis

swordinanothersoldier’sside.

Without waiting for Aoibhe, he fled through one of the tunnels that led under the city. Several

soldiersfollowed.

Aoibhe was already gone. Having stolen a sword from the vampyre she’d gutted, she fled into a

passagethatledtotheoverworld.

ChapterFifty-Two

W

ILLIAM

S

AT

O

N

H

IS

T

HRONE

,hisfaceinhishands.

Onlyoneothertimehadhefeltsoalone,soabandoned,andthatwasthedayhisteacherdied.He

founditstrangethathiscurrenttroublelefthimsimilarlybereft.

Simonettahadignoredhisrequestforhelp,althoughshehadrefusedtheCuriapermissiontoenter

Umbria.

ButtheCuriadidn’tneedtotravelthroughUmbriatoarriveinTuscany;theycouldtravelthelength

oftheLazioregioninwhichRomewassituated,andpassdirectlyintoTuscany.

Similarly, the Venetians had ignored Florence’s request, despite being under the Prince’s control.

NeitherUmbrianorVenicewaswillingtoengageinopenarmedconflictwithCuriaforces—notwithout
thebackingoftheRoman.

ThePrincetuggedathishair.

Aoibhe and Ibarra had escaped. Captain Borek and the remaining members of his detachment had

splitintotwogroupsinordertofollowthem.Butthetraitorswerecunningandknewthecitywell.They
wereprobablyhidinguntilsunset,whentheycouldmaketheirwaynorth.

TheRomanhadrespondeddirectlytothePrince’smessage,informinghimthathe’dwithdrawnall

support.William’sfailuretosurrenderhispettotheCuriahadbeenviewedasabetrayal.ThePrinceof
Florence had been officially disowned and publicly condemned, which meant every principality in the
kingdomofItalywouldsidewiththeRomanagainsthim.

WilliamknewfirsthandoftheRoman’spossessivecaprice.Facedwiththedilemmaofsurrendering

Raven to the Curia or disobeying his father, he’d chosen disobedience. He’d done so knowing his
decision carried risk, but he hadn’t expected the consequences to be so great. The Roman had stripped
himofhispositionandhadcommunicatedthesametotheCuria.Suchamovewasequivalenttohanding
theCuriathekeystotheprincipalityandofferinglicensetoturnFlorenceintoPrague.

The former Prince of Florence sat on his throne in the great council chamber, sorrowing for his

belovedcity.

Agentlehandrestedonhis,lightasanangel’stouch.“Theremustbesomethingwecando.”

William lifted his head to look at Raven. “The Curia will level us. I’m considered a traitor now.

Evenifweweretoflee,theRomanwouldhuntme.”

“WouldhehuntusintheUnitedStates?InSouthAmerica?”

“Idon’tthinkIwouldmakeitoutofItaly.TheCuriawillhuntmetoo.”

“Therehastobeaway.”

Heshookhishead.“Myonlyhopeistoseeyouescapetofreedom.”

“I’mnotleavingyou.”Herexpressiongrewfierce.

Helookedathersadly.“IdisobeyedtheRomanandrefusedtohandyouovertotheCuria.Butthey

aregoingtotakeyouanyway.”

“I’dratherdiewithyou!”

“Ifyousurvive,apartofmewillsurvivealso.”Hetookherwrist,marvelingattheslimarmthatlay

belowthegoldbracelethe’dgivenher.“Don’tletyourdeathbeaddedtomysins.”

“Fatherisstillinsidethecity.IfIcangetamessagetohim,maybewecannegotiateatruce.”

“It’stoolate.”Hereleasedher.

Sheleanedagainstthethrone,takingtheweightoffherinjuredleg.“Ihavetotry.”

“Iwillleadmytroopsintobattle.MymindwouldresteasierifIknewyouweresafe.GotoSarah.”

“Listentome,William.”Shebentatthewaist,hergreeneyessparkingwithanger.“I’mnotgiving

up.I’mnotgoingtoletyougiveupeither.WarwiththeCuriaissuicide.You’lldieinbattle,andI’lldie
atyoursidebecauseIwon’tleaveyou.

“Yousaythere’snowayforustoescapeItalywithoutbeinghuntedbytheRoman.Soouronlyoption

istotrytomakepeacewiththeCuriaandpreventagenocide.”

Williamlaughedbitterly.“Theydon’twantpeace.”

“Fatherdoes.”

“Hewantspeaceandhecomestomycitywithsoldiers?”

“I’msorryaboutthecitizenswhowerekilled.ButFathermusthavesomeinfluenceifhewasableto

commandagroupofsoldiers.Iwanttotalktohim.Iwanttotry.”

Williamstoodquickly.Hetouchedherhair,hereyebrows,andhercheeks.“Atleasthecankeepyou

safe.Ifyouremainwithme,youcouldbekilled,orturned,ormadesomeone’spet.”

“I’mnotinterestedinmakingadealwiththeCuriatosavemyownass.It’sbothofusornothing.”

William’s forehead crinkled. “They are marching three hundred soldiers here to destroy me. They

willneversparemylife.Andeveniftheydid,there’stheRomantocontendwith.Iamasgoodasdead,
Cassita.Saveyourself.”

Hercheeksreddenedwithanger.“Iamnotgivingup,WilliamMalet.Don’tyoudaregiveup.”

William’sgrayeyessearchedhersforalongtime.

Almostimperceptibly,henodded.

Shewrappedherarmsaroundhim.

“Itseemsfitting,”hemurmured,pressingakisstoherhair.

“Whatisfitting?”

“Thatyoushouldbemyonlyhope.”Heheldhertightly,asifbyhisholdhecouldensuretheirsafety.

Hetippedherchinupandkissedher,cuppingherfacewithbothhands.

WilliamshoutedforhisguardsandaskedoneofthemtoretrieveGregor.WhenGregorarrived,the

PrinceandRavenaccompaniedhimtooneofthecommunicationsroomshiddeninPalazzoRiccardi.

“Curiatroopsareontheirway.”Father’svoicecouldbeheardthroughthespeakerphone.

“Yes,weknowthat.”RavenexchangedalookwithWilliam.

“TheRomanwon’tprotecthim.Weknowhewasorderedtosurrenderyou,andherefused.”

“Warmeansdeath—deathfortheCuriaanddeathfortheFlorentines.Youdon’twantthelivesofall

thosepeopleonyourconscience.Helpmestopit,”Ravenpleaded.

Fatherpaused.“Warisnotinourinterests.ButmysuperiorswillnotrestuntilthePrinceiscaptured

anddestroyed.Iwillnotrestuntilyouaresafe.”

“Youoffernothing,”Williamsaid,shakinghisheadatRaven.

“Wait.”Fatherclearedhisthroat.“Mysuperiorswantregimechange.Ourintelligenceindicatesthe

Romanwantsthesame.SurrenderthecityandRaven,andwewillhavepeace.”

“Onceagainyouoffernothing,”Williamgrowled.“MypeopleandIwouldratherdiefightingthan

turnthecityovertotheCuria.”

“Thereareagentsinsidethecity.Evennow,theyhavebeenassembled.Warcouldbreakoutatany

moment.Iamtheonlyonestandingbetweenyouandcertaindeath.”

William’sexpressionhardened.“Thisconversationisover.”

“Wait!Letmespeaktoyoudirectly.”

William’s gaze moved to Raven. “Your folly, priest, is that you think you can divide and conquer.

Youspeaktobothofusorneither.”

“Releaseherfromyourthrall,andwecanhaveanopenconversation.”

“I can hear you, Father.” Raven threw her hands up in frustration. “I can hear, and I can speak for

myself. I’m not in anyone’s thrall, and you need to listen to me. I’m trying to help you save countless
lives.”

“Verywell.”Thepriestdrewadeepbreath.“Imayhaveasolutionthatwouldbenefitbothofus.”

ThePrincescowled.“Ithoughtlyingwasasin.”

“Tellus,”Raveninterjected.“What’syoursolution?”

ThepriestmumbledpartoftheHailMary.

“Whatdoyoupropose?”thePrincepressed,hiseyesfixedonRaven.

“AsIsaid,mysuperiorswantregimechangeandsodoestheRoman.It’scoming,andthere’snothing

thatcanbedonetostopit.

“ButtheCuriaoffersexorcismsonrareoccasions,toreturnavampyretohisformerstate.IbelieveI

canpersuademysuperiorstoexorciseyouinexchangeforthecity.”

“No.” Raven gripped William’s arm, an expression of horror on her face. “That means you’ll kill

him.”

“Anexorcismisnotanexecution.”Father’stonewasinsistent.“Wecanfreeyou,William.Wecan

returnyoutowhatyouoncewere.”

“YouknowaswellasIthatthatisthesameasanexecution,”thePrincescoffed.

“You’llbehumanonceagain,freeofthedarkness.Freeofthecontroloftheevilone.Youwillhave

anormallife.”

“Thisbodyshouldhavediedinthethirteenthcentury.Whatmakesyouthinkitcouldsurvivesucha

ritual?”

“God.”

“God?”Ravenlaughed.“YouaskustoplaceourtrustinGod?”

“Withouthim,wehavenothing,”thepriestrepliedstubbornly.

“Haveanyofyourmembersperformedanexorcismonanoldone?”William’sexpressionchanged.

Raventuggedathisarm.“Youcan’tbeconsideringthis.”

Williamliftedafinger,waitingforthepriest’sresponse.

“Ihavenoknowledgeofanexorcismofanoldone,”thepriestadmitted.“Buttheprincipleisthe

same.”

“It’stoorisky,”Ravenconcluded.“Whatifweweretoagreetoleavethecity?”

“Cassita,”Williamgentlyreprovedher.

“Youwouldbeabletoleaveaftertheexorcism,”thepriestpromised.“ButRaven,yourmemories

wouldhavetobeadjusted.AndWilliamwouldneedtoreturntoRomewithme,tobedebriefed.”

“Wouldthatbebeforeoraftertheblackrobeskillme?”Williamasked.

Fatherignoredhisbarb.“Raven,yousayyouaren’tinhisthrall.Yousayhelovesyou.Butcan’tyou

seehe’stheoneputtingyouindanger?Oncethewarstarts,youcouldbekilled.I’mtheonlyonewhocan
protectyou.”

“Wewanttobetogether.”RavengrippedWilliam’shand.

Williamloweredhisvoice.“It’stoodangerous.Ifthey’reofferingyousafepassage,youshouldtake

it.”

“No,”shewhispered.“I’mnotleavingwithoutyou.”

“IfIabandonmycity,I’macoward.”

“There’snoreasontoseethisasabandonment,”thepriestinterrupted.“Youwouldbesurrendering

thecityinordertoavoidbloodshed.Inexchange,weguaranteeRaven’ssafetyandyourlife.Youbecome
humanonceagain,andwewillnolongerbeenemies.”

“No,”RavenmouthedtoWilliam.“It’stoorisky.”

“What’stopreventyoufromturningmeovertotheRomanonceyou’vefinished?”Williamasked.

Thepriestraisedhisvoice,asifhewereinearnest.“Youseemtoforgetwhoweare.Ourgoalisto

savehumanlife,notdestroyit.Wewouldn’thandyouovertotheRomanortoanyothervampyre,ifyou
werehuman.

“If you agree to these terms, you too will save life—the lives of your citizens and the lives of my

men.AndRavenwillbeprotected.Isweartoyou,Iwillkeephersafe.AndIwillnotletmybrethren
destroyyou.”

ThePrincerubbedhischininagitation.“IfIweretoacceptthoseterms,I’dwantthemwrittenina

treatythatwouldbesignedandcirculated.Idon’twantyoumarchingonFlorenceafterI’mdeposed.”

“No,” Raven objected. “You can’t put your trust in an exorcism. It’s like placing your life in the

handsofamagictrick.Whatmakesyouthinkitwillwork?”

“There will be no treachery,” the priest said, ignoring her characterization. “I will have the terms

drawnup,andyoumaymarchadetachmentofyoursoldierstoaneutrallocation.We’llsignthetreatyand

endthewarbeforethetroopsarrive.”

“Allowmetimetoconsideryourterms.Youshallhavemyanswerinhalfanhour.”Williamended

thecall.

Hiseyesmovedtohisheadofsecurity.“Giveusamoment.”

Gregorbowedandlefttheroom.

“William,Fathersaidhimselfthey’veneverperformedanexorcismonanoldone.”

“Itoffersusachance,withtheaddedvalueofsavingmycity.”

“Whatiftheykillyou?”Raven’sbodybegantotremble.

“ThenI’llbedead.Butyouwillbesafeandsowillthecity.”

“It’stoohighacost.”Shegrabbedhisarm.

Williamhunghishead.Hecoveredhiseyeswithhishand.

At length, he opened his eyes. “You were the one who taught me to hope, Cassita. The priest is

offeringmehope,hopethatwecanbothsurvivethis.Ihavetoconsiderit.”

ChapterFifty-Three

G

ENERAL

V

ALE

S

TARED

atthePrinceofFlorence,hisfaceimpassive.Thetwoleadersstoodonopposite

sidesofawide,woodentable,onwhichrestedafewsheetsofprintedpaper.

TheGeneralhadalreadysignedthetreaty,onorderoftheSuperiorGeneral.

ThePrinceheldthepeninhishand.“Ifthistreatyisviolated,mytroopshaveorderstostrike.”

“Noted,”theGeneralrepliedgruffly.

“Youmayhaveoustedme,butyoustillhavetheRomantocontendwith.I’vesenthimacopyofthe

treaty.Hewillseeitupheld.”

“You’reescapingwithyourlife,whichisfarbetterthanyoudeserve.”

“The opportunity to kill has not been taken away from you entirely,” the Prince growled. “I’ve

revealedtheidentitiesofthevampyresresponsibleforthedeathofthepoliceman.”

“General,”FatherKavanaughinterjected.Hesteppedforward,facingthePrince.“Peaceisinallof

ourinterests.TheGeneralknowsthis.”

ThePrinceloweredhisvoice,addressingthepriest.“AndIhaveyourword?”

“Onmysoul.”

ThePrincestaredatthepriest.Theotherinhabitantsoftheroom,whichincludedthespecialforces

unitandadetachmentofFlorentines,begantogrowuneasy.

ThePrinceglancedatRaven.Thenhepressedpentopaperandsigned.

“I acknowledge your surrender.” The General inclined his head in the Prince’s direction. “Your

soldiersmayreturntotheirbarracks.”

ThePrincesalutedtheFlorentinecaptainandshookhishand.“Thankyouforyourservice.Reportto

Lord Gregor for further instructions. Remind him to notify the Roman if even the smallest part of this
treatyisbroken.”

Thecaptainbowedlow,hishandonhissword.Heandhisdetachmentmarchedtowardthedoorand

exited.

“Commander,”theGeneralordered.

CommanderSullivanmarchedforward,holdingapairofmanacles.

“Whatareyoudoing?”RavensurgedtowardWilliamandthecommander.

“It’sallright.”William’stonewascalmasheheldouthiswrists.

“No,itisn’t.”Raventurnedonthecommander.“Hesurrendered.Youcan’tchainhim!”

Thecommandersidesteppedher,keepinghiseyestrainedonthePrinceasheshackledhiswristsand

anothersoldiershackledhisankles.

OneofthesoldiersblockedRavenfromtouchingWilliam.

“Father?” She tried to grab the priest, but he was already moving, throwing a rosary over the

Prince’sneck.

Ahushfellovertheassembledgroupastherosaryhadabsolutelynoeffectonhim.

FatherKavanaughbeganrecitingprayersinLatinandholdingacrossoutinfrontofhim.

“William!” Raven pushed past the soldier, but another caught her around the waist. “You’re

humiliatinghim.Hesurrendered.Stop!”

“It’sforoursafety.”Thepriestgavewhatwasintendedtobeacomfortinglook.

“To the Duomo,” the General ordered, leading the commander and three other soldiers as they

escortedthePrinceoutoftheroom.

FathertookRaven’shandandtheyfollowedclosebehind.

ChapterFifty-Four

“P

LEASE

L

ET

H

IM

G

O

,”Ravenbegged,asshefollowedFatherKavanaughthroughoneoftheunderground

passagesthatledfromtheJesuitsafehousedirectlytotheDuomo.

“We made an agreement. In exchange for his surrender, his life would be spared.” Father began

removingthegoldbraceletfromRaven’swrist.

Shesnatcheditback.“That’smine!”

“Youdon’tneeditanymore.Youarenolongerunderhiscontrol.”

She replaced the bracelet on her wrist. “It was never about control. It’s about love. Why are we

goingtotheDuomo?”

Fathergaveheranoddlook.“It’sthesafestplacetoexorcisethedemon.”

HeassistedherastheyascendedthestaircasethatledintotheDuomoandpassedthroughasetof

doorsintothesacredspace.

Ravenloweredhervoice.“You’regoingtoletusgoaftertheritual,right?”

“Wewillrequireafewthingsfromhimfirst.”

Shelookedatthepriestinhorror.“He’salreadysurrendered.Whatmorecouldyouwant?”

FatherKavanaughavertedhisgazetolooktowardanassemblyoffiftyblackrobesliningtheaisle

thatledtothehighaltaroftheDuomo.Eachmanwasarmedwithasword.

RavenwatchedWilliampassthroughthem,alambbeingledtothealtarinchains.

ShegrabbedFather’sarm.“You’regoingtoturnhimintooneofyoursoldiers?You’regoingtomake

himkillhisownpeople?”

“Ifthatiswhatmysuperiorswish,yes.”

Ravencursed,loudandlong.

“Enough.”Father’sexpressiongrewsevere.“WeareinahouseofGod.Youspeakwithrespector

youwillleave.”

“Youdeceivedus,”Ravenhissed.“Youpromisedhimfreedom.Nowyou’replanningtomakehima

slave.”

ThepriestremovedRaven’shandfromhisarm.“Wedon’tkeepslaves.ButthePrinceknowssecrets

abouttheRoman.Hemustsharewhatheknows.Andyes,Ihopethatafterhetastesfreedom,hewillwant
tohelpusprovidethatfreedomtoothers.”

Raven pulled at her hair, frantically trying to keep her fury at bay. It was too late—William had

alreadysignedthetreaty.Butperhapstherewasstilltimetowarnhim.

The beauty of the great cathedral opened up before her as she walked with the priest over the

elaboratelydecoratedfloorstowardthealtar.

Raven ignored the artwork and Brunelleschi’s incredible dome that stretched over them. She was

fixatedonlyonWilliamasnolessthantenblackrobesdraggedhimacrossthefloor.

Hesubmittedtotheiractionswordlessly,hisheavychainscrashingandclanking.

“William,”sheliftedhervoice.

ThePrinceturnedhisheadbutcouldn’tseeherbecauseshewastoofarbehind.

Sheapproachedmorequickly,butFatherblockedherprogress.“Itisn’tsafe.”

“Idon’tcare.”Ravensidesteppedthepriest,limpingasfastasshecouldtowardWilliam.

Oneoftheblackrobescaughtherarm.

“William!” Raven shouted, struggling against the soldier who held her. “They lied to us. They’re

goingtoturnyouintoakillingmachine.Saveyourself.”

Theblackrobesliftedtheirvoicesindisapproval.OneofthemmovedtoFatherKavanaugh’sside,

whisperingfuriouslyinhisear.

ThePrincewasfinallyabletomakeeyecontactwithher.Hiseyebrowsknittedtogetheratthesight

ofherbeingrestrainedbyablackrobe.

“Don’t touch her,” he spoke through gritted teeth. His eyes moved to Father Kavanaugh’s. “You

promisedtoprotecther.”

“Allthepromisesarelies,”shecried,continuingtostruggle.“Idon’twanttobeprotectedbyhim.I

wantyou.”

William’sexpressiongrewpained.“Jet’aim,”hewhispered.

AtearstreakeddownRaven’sface.“Iloveyou.Pleasedon’tletthishappen.”

Herresponsewasalmostdrownedoutbythesoundofbootsonthefloor.Theblackroberestraining

herpulledheraway,almostviolently,andpushedheragainstapillar.

Aprocessionofelevenpriestsledbyamaninthevestmentsofacardinalmarchedpasthertoward

thealtar.

ThecardinalturnedtofaceRavenandFatherKavanaugh.“Keepherquietortakeheraway.”

Thepriesthesitated,hisgazemovingbetweenWilliamandRaven,whowascrying.

“FatherKavanaugh,”thecardinalsnapped.

Shakenfromhismusings,Fatherbowed.HestoodnexttoRaven,givingheraconflictedlook.“I’ve

neverseenthatbefore.”

“Seenwhat?”

“AdemonprofessinghisloveinahouseofGod.”

Father’sruminationswereinterruptedbythecardinal,whoheldupalargecrucifix,addressingthe

blackrobeswhoflankedtheprostratePrince.“Bringhimhere.”

Thecardinalpointedtoaspotonthefloor,andnolessthantenblackrobesdidhisbidding.

William was placed face down in front of the altar, shackled. Eleven priests, robed in white,

arrangedthemselvesaroundhiminasemi-circle.

Heturnedhisheadtotheleft,shiftinguntilhecouldseeRaven’sface.

“Sarah,”hemouthed,hisgrayeyesintense.

Ravennodded.

“What’shesaying?”Fatherspokeinherear.

“He’ssayinghe’ssorry,”shelied,wipingawaytears.

The cardinal made the sign of the cross and took holy water, sprinkling it over William, over

himself,andovereveryonestandingnearby.

Williamhissedasthewatermadecontactwithhisbody,butthewaterdidn’tburnhim.

ThecardinalkneltandbegantorecitetheLitanyoftheSaints,inItalian.EveryoneexceptRavenand

Williamparticipatedintheresponses.

ThenRavennoticedWilliam’slipsmoving.

“BrotherThomas,prayforme.Prayformywoman,whomIlove.”Ravenwasn’tsureshe’dread

William’slipscorrectly,butsheknewthenameofhisteacher.Itmadesensehe’dbeghisteacherforhelp.

“Brother Thomas, they betrayed us. Please help William.” Raven’s own lips began to move as

desperatesupplicationbubbledupfromherheart.

She didn’t question her words, or censure herself for addressing a dead man. She was desperate.

AddinghervoicetoWilliam’sonlyseemedright.

William’sbodyconvulsed.Thechainswrenchedandclangedagainstthefloor.

Thecardinalraisedhisvoicesohecouldbeheard.

William’slipscontinuedtomove,“Havemercyonme.”

“Itisn’tpossible,”FatherKavanaughmuttered.He’dstoppedparticipatingintheresponses,focusing

hisattentiononthefallenPrince.

“Whatisn’tpossible?”Raven’sgazeswungfromWilliamtothepriest.

William’svoiceliftedstillhigher,speakinginLatin,“Lord,Iamnotworthytoreceiveyou,butonly

saythewordandIshallbehealed.”

“Whatisn’tpossible?”RavenpinchedFather’sarm.

The priest’s blue eyes moved to hers, and he tugged at his white beard. “A house divided against

itselfcannotstand.”

“Itoldyouhewasdifferentfromtheothers.”Ravenswipedathertears.“Lethimgobeforeit’stoo

late.”

“I can’t do that.” Father wore a look of uncertainty as he re-joined the other priests in their

responses.

Once the litany was finished, the cardinal turned to William and addressed a few words to the

demon,askingforitsname.

Williamgroaned,andhisbodycurledinonitself.Heseemedwrackedwithpainandbegantocry

out.

Ravenmovedtowardhimwithspeedshedidn’tknowshepossessed.Shestumbledandcrawled,the

skirtofheryellowsundressdraggingacrossthestonefloor.

Heturnedhisheadtolookather.

“William,I’msorry.I’mso,sosorry.”

“I—”Heclosedhiseyesandmadeanagonizednoiseashisbodyconvulsed.

Thecathedralechoedwithhiscriesasthelargeassemblyofpriestsandblackrobesfellsilent.

“I’mhere,”Raven’svoicecracked.“I’mnotleavingyou,William.I’mrighthere.”

Hestruggledtomakeeyecontact.“Ipledgemyselftoyou.”

Hisshacklesclankedashemovedhishandsinherdirection,hisfingersquestinghers.

“Ipledgemyselftoyou,too.Forever.”Ravenreachedacrossthefloor,butbeforeshecouldtouch

himtwoblackrobesgrabbedherandpulledheraway.

Out of nothing, a breath of air materialized and swirled around the Prince. In the whisper of the

breeze,avoicesaiditsname,Despair.

William’seyeswereshut,hisbodyseizing.

“No!”Ravencried,evenasshewasdraggedacrossthefloor.“William,no!”

FatherKavanaughpushedtheblackrobesasideandfreedRaven.Buthewouldn’tletherreturnto

William’sside.

“Thedemonisthere,”Fatherexplained.“Stayback.”

Hestoodinfrontofherprotectively.

“He doesn’t have a demon.” Raven tried to move around the priest, but the black robes stood on

eitherside,poisedtointervene.

The cardinal placed his hand on William’s head and recited another prayer before reading a text

fromoneoftheGospels.

William’sbodycontinuedtoseize.Thecolorofhisskinchangedanddeepened,andsweatappeared

onhisbrow.Themysteriousbreezeswirledabovehim,aprivatewhirlwind,thevoicegrowinglouder
andmoreominous.“Despair.”

Thetemperatureintheroomseemedtodrop.

Raven rubbed her bare arms against the cold. Panic filled her, along with a feeling of defeat. The

situationwashopeless.TheyweretorturingWilliam,andshecouldn’tfreehim.

Shefeltshortofbreath,asifthefiguresguardingherwerepressingcloser.Allherstriving,allher

words,hadcometonaught.Thepersonshelovedmostintheworldsufferedinfrontofher,andshecould
donothing.

Thecardinalprayed,makingthesignofthecrossoverhimselfandoverWilliam.Hetookthestole

hewaswearingfromhisshouldersandplaceditonWilliam’sback.

Then,inaloudvoicethatrangoutinthegreatcathedral,thecardinaladdressedthedemonDespair

andcommandedittocomeout.

Thebreezeswirledintoawhirlwind,spinningandgustingfuriously.Thevoiceshriekedandcursed.

Allofasudden,thewhirlwindascendedtowardthedomeandvanished.

Williamremainedperfectlystill,prostratebeforethealtar,facedown.

ThecardinaltouchedWilliam’shead,makingthesignofthecrossashecontinuedhisprayers.He

addressedthedemononceagain,commandingittoleave.

Astrange white mistappeared over thePrince’s body, like afog descending innight air. The mist

shimmeredandvibrated,thenittoovanished.

“It’sfinished,”thecardinalannounced.

AsthefeelingofdreadliftedfromRaven’sbody,likeaheavycoatbeingremoved,herlegsbuckled.

Fathercaughtherbeforeshefelltothefloor.

Thecardinalprayedafinalprayer.KneelingbesideWilliam’sbody,heplacedhishandonhishead.

“Youhavebeenhealed.Arise.”

Williamdidn’tmove.

Thecardinalbowedverylow,examiningWilliam’sface.

Thecardinalliftedhisheadimmediately.“Medic!”

One of the black robes ran to his side and fell on his knees. He rolled William to his back, the

shacklesandchainscrashingagainstthefloor.

William’sheadlolled,hiseyesclosed.

ThemedicloweredhiseartoWilliam’schest.“Noheartbeat.”

Hebegandoingchestcompressions.

“What’swrong?”RavenpushedagainstFather’sarms,findingherfeetonceagain.

“Sometimesthedemontriestodestroyitshostasitleaves.”Fatherjoinedtheothersstandingaround

William.Headdedhisvoicetotheirprayers.

Ravenstumbledtowardthem,startledthattheblackrobesmovedasideforher.

Shewatchedasthemediccontinuedperformingcardiopulmonaryresuscitation,movingfromtimeto

timetoexhaleairintoWilliam’smouth.

“Callanambulance,”themedicgrunted.

Thecardinalsatbackonhisheels.“Areyousure?”

“Now!”Themedicsnapped.

Oneoftheblackrobespulledoutacellphoneandwalkedsomefeetaway,dialinganumber.

“Yousaidanexorcismwasn’tanexecution.”RaventurnedaccusingeyesonFatherKavanaugh.“You

saidhe’dbealive!”

Shestruckhimwithherfistsevenasthemediccontinuedtoworkafewfeetaway.ThegreatDuomo

echoedwithheranguishedcriesandthesoundofurgentprayers.

ChapterFifty-Five

“A

PPARENTLY

, S

HE

W

ASN’T

P

OSSESSED

. We had to sedate her, but the sedative will wear off in a few

hours.”

“Afterthat?”

“Wewillleaveittoyoutoadjusthermemories.Thebodyisatthemorgue.We’rewaitingforitto

bereleased.”

Ravensatinasmallbedroom,staringatacrucifixonthewall.

Since she awoke, she’d been waiting for her mind to clear. Slowly, very slowly, her memories

returned,alongwithscrapsofconversationshemusthaveoverheard.

She remembered being taken by the black robes to the Jesuit safe house. She remembered Father

KavanaughtellingherWilliamwasdead.He’dbeenrushedtothehospital,butwasdeadonarrival.

She’dattackedthepriestinafury,screamingthathewasamurderer.Blackrobeshadrestrainedher

whileanotherplungedaneedleintohervein.

Shedidn’trememberanythingafterthat.

She’dawokeninanarrowbed,disorientedandfeelingstrangelysubdued.Thesedativehadnumbed

her.Shecouldn’tcryorfeelanger,evenasherheartweptblood.

Raven sat quietly, waiting for her equilibrium to return, and took stock of her surroundings—a

narrowbed,achair,andadesk.Ashortbookcasethatheldafewbooks,alltheological,stoodnexttothe
desk.AcrucifixhungonthewallnexttoabrassrenderingofthesymboloftheSocietyofJesus.Asmall
windowrevealedthenightskyandthebarestsliverofmoonlight.

She stretched her legs and stood, leaning against the bed. The sedative must have numbed her leg

becauseshedidn’tfeelanydiscomfort.

Shewalkedslowlytothedoor.Itwaslocked.

FatherKavanaughwasnolongerthebenevolentmanshe’dthoughthewas.Whileheandtheothers

trulyseemedshockedthatWilliamhaddied,theycouldn’thavebeenignorantofthepossibility.They’d
shackledhimandplacedhiminanincrediblystressfulsituation.Perhapsitwasthepowerofsuggestion,
alongwiththestress,thatkilledhim.

Ravendidn’tbelieveindemons.Shedidn’thaveascientificexplanationforthestrangewhirlwind

orthedisembodiedvoice,butsheknewWilliamhadnotbeenpossessed.

She’dbeggedFatheroverandoveragaintofreeWilliam.Hecouldhaveintervened.Hecouldhave

putastoptotheentirebizarreritual.Buthehadn’t.Heandalltheotherblackrobeshadsimplystoodand
watchedWilliamdie.

Murderers.

Father Kavanaugh and the Curia were now her enemies. They’d been duplicitous in their

negotiations for peace and treacherous in their actions. The fact that the priest, who she’d trusted with
William’slife,hadbetrayedthemcutherdeeply.

Listlessly,shereturnedtothebedandsatdown.Thewindowwastoosmalltocrawloutof,andshe

appearedtobeonthesecondfloor.

PerhapsanopportunitytoescapewouldpresentitselfbeforetheCuriaattemptedtowipeawayher

memories.

Shehuggedherpillow,noticingthathergoldbraceletwasgone.TheCuriamusthavetakenitfrom

her.TheCuriahadtakeneverythingawayfromher.

She closed her eyes, trying with all her might to catalogue every moment, every word she’d

exchanged with William, hoping some of the memories could be hidden from the Curia amongst the
memoriesofherchildhoodanditsownbetrayals.

Ravenawokewithastart.

Theroomwasdarkexceptforthemoonlightthatspilledontothefloorfromthesmallwindow.

She’dbeendreaming.SheandWilliamwerewalkinginhisgarden,handandhand,inbrightsunlight.

She’dbrokendownwhenshesawhim,hardlyabletosaythewordsthatexpressedhowrelievedshewas
thathewasn’tdead.

He’dsmiledathergravelyandopenedhismouthtoexplain.

Somethingmoved,makingthesoundofabroomsweepingacrossafloor.

Theroomwasempty,saveforthefurniture.Asshesatupinbed,shesawsomething.

Sheslidherlegsoverthesideofthebedandunsteadilycrossedtothedoor,bendingtoretrievea

pieceofpaper.

Shehelditupinthemoonlight.

Openthedoorandwalktotheendofthehall.Takethestaircasetothegroundfloor.Someonewill

bewaitingforyou.

-Sarah

Ravenreadthehandwrittenmessagetwicebeforethewordspenetratedherfoggymind.

Thepaperwastoosolidinherhandtobeafigmentofimagination.Shewonderedifsomeonewas

manipulatingheroriftheletterhadtrulybeenwrittenbytheSarahWilliamhadwantedhertofind.

Asfarassheknew,sheandWilliamandSarahweretheonlyoneswhoknewabouttheaddresson

ViaSanZanobi.PerhapsthemysteriousSarahhadlearnedofherwhereaboutsandcometoher.

Itdidn’tmattertoRaveniftheauthorofthenotecouldbetrustedornot.Shewantedtoescapeand

waswillingtoriskit.

Shetriedthedoorknobandwassurprisedtofindthatitturnedeasily.Sheopenedthedoorandstuck

herheadintothehall.Itwasempty.

Asquietlyasshecould,sheexitedherroomandhobbledtotheendofthehall.Sheopenedthedoor

tothestairwellandcloseditquietlybehindher.Thestaircasewasnarrow,andsheleanedontherailing

asshecautiouslydescended,herearsstrainingfortheslightestsound.

Whenshereachedthebottom,shecamefacetofacewithateenageboy.Heplacedafingeragainst

hislips.

Hetookherhandinhis,whichwasstunninglywarm,andledheroutsideintothealley.

TheymovedtothestreetasfastasRavencouldmanageandwalkedhandinhandaboutaquarterofa

block.Inthedistance,shecouldseeBrunelleschi’sdome.

Shewincedattherealization.

The teenager opened the passenger door of a small Fiat and helped her into the seat. He walked

around the car and started it. They pulled away from the curb and sped down the street, the headlights
penetratingthedarkness.

“Whoareyou?”sheaskedinItalian.

“Amessenger.”Hegaveherasmallsmilebeforereturninghisconcentrationtotheroad.

ItwasonlyashortdrivetoViaSanZanobi.Ravensawthesignastheymadearightturnontothe

street.

Theboyparkedinfrontofnumberthirty-three.Heleanedhisheadtowardthebuilding.“Pressthe

buzzer,andgivethemthepassword.”

“Thankyou.”Ravenreachedintothepocketsofhersundress.“I’msorryIdon’thaveanymoney.”

“I have been well paid.” He flashed her a smile. “Go. They will realize you are gone at any

moment.”

Raventhankedhimonceagainandexitedthevehicle.

The teenager waited as she crossed the street and pressed the buzzer. As soon as she spoke the

password,hepulledaway,histaillightsdisappearingaroundthecorner.

ThelockonthedoorbuzzedandRavenopenedit,steppingintoalightlesscorridor.

ChapterFifty-Six

T

HE

C

ORRIDOR

O

PENED

U

P

into a lit courtyard that housed a garden. Doors lined the walls around the

courtyard.

Awomanstoodnexttoanopendoor,beckoning.

Ravenlimpedtowardher.

Thewomanappearedtobeinherfiftiesandhadshoulder-lengthbrownhairandbrowneyes.She

seemedunsurprisedbyRaven’sdisabilityandmovedtoherside,offeringashouldertoleanon.

SheusheredRaventhroughtheopendoorandintoanapartment,boltingthedoorbehindthem.

The apartment was spacious, with an open-concept kitchen and dining area that had sliding glass

doorsleadingouttoanothergarden.

ThewomanledRaventhroughthekitchentoasittingroom.

Raven was grateful to take the weight off her leg and sank onto a low couch. “How did you find

me?”

“It’s best if you don’t ask too many questions,” the woman replied in English, sitting in a chair

opposite.“Ihavebeenpaidtohelpyouescapethecity.Icouldn’tdothatwithyoubeingheldcaptive.”

“Williamhiredyou?”

“We don’t have much time.” The woman ignored her question. “If you wish to escape, you must

leavewithinthehour.”

“Sosoon?”

“Thepolicewouldliketospeaktoyouinconnectionwiththemurderedinspectorwhowasfoundin

theLoggiadeiLanzi.Iwasalsotoldyouwishtoescapeotherinterestedparties.”

Ravenfidgetedwithherfingernails.“Youcouldsaythat.”

“Becauseofthenatureofthethreatsagainstyou,myserviceswereengagedtoprovideyouwitha

newidentityandanewlife.”

Raven’sheartskippedabeat.“Isthatreallynecessary?”

Thewomanfrowned.“Youcanrefusemyassistance,ofcourse.Butaccordingtotheriskassessment

Iwasprovided,youareindanger.WhetheryouleaveFlorenceornot,thelifeyouhavelivedupuntilthis
pointisover.

“I’mofferingyouanewidentity,anewjob,andanewlife.Ifyouacceptthisnewlife,youcannever

returntoItaly.Youcannotseeorspeakwithanyonefromyouroldlife,includingyourfamily.”

Raveninhaledsharply.“Whataboutmysister?”

“If your sister learns that you are alive, your enemies will learn that too. And they will come for

you.”

“Ican’tevensaygoodbye?”

“I’mafraidnot.”Thewomangaveherasympatheticlook.“Ifyouchoosetodothis,weendyourold

life.Yourfamilywillbelieveyou’redead.”

Ravenfellsilent.

The woman looked at her watch. “It’s your decision, but you must choose quickly. Your presence

putsmeandmanyothersatrisk.”

Raven’s mind moved slowly from scenario to scenario. She knew she was still feeling the after-

effectsofthesedative,soherabilitytofeelstrongemotionswassomewhatdepressed.Evenso,shefound
itdifficulttochooseanactionthatwouldcausemorepaintoCara.

“Itisn’tmyplacetopersuadeyou,”thewomaninterjected.“Butyoushouldknowthatyourcurrent

identityposesarisktoyourfamily.”

Ravenliftedhereyestomeetthewoman’s.“Someonewantstokillme?”

“Someonewantsrevengethatwillprobablyendwithyourdeath,”thewomancorrectedher.

“Who?”

Thewomansmoothedthewrinklesinherskirt.“Thereareatleasttwocreaturesoftheunderworld

whobearalotofangertowardsomeonewhowasclosetoyou.Let’sleaveitatthat.”

Ravencaughthermeaningimmediately.“IcouldreturntotheJesuithouseandescapethecreatures,

butFatherKavanaughwilltakeawaymymemories.”

“Youshouldalsoconsideryourfamily.Unlesssomeoneiswillingtoprotectyouandyourfamilyfor

therestofyourlife,allofyouarevulnerable.”

Understandingwashedoverher.Ravennodded.

“Time’sup.”Sarahstood.“Ifyou’repreparedtodothis,wemustgetreadynow.”

Ravenclosedhereyes.Shethoughtofhersister.Shethoughtofhermother.Shethoughtofhersister

onceagain.

So much pain. So much death. Even if the Curia decided to send her back to Florida, the Roman

might send someone to hunt her, just for spite. Without her memories of William and his world, she
wouldn’tknowhowtoprotectherself.Andshewouldn’tentrusthersafetyandthesafetyofhersisterto
theCuria.

“I’mready.”

ThewomanledRavendownthehallandintoabackroom.

Lessthananhourlater,RavenclimbedintoablackMercedesMClass.Herlongblackhairhadbeencut
tohershouldersanddyedadarkred;hergreeneyeshadbeencoveredwithbluecontactlenses.

The male driver placed her luggage and her new wheelchair in the back of the vehicle while the

mysterious woman handed her a very expensive handbag. “Your passport for your escape from Italy is
inside.You’rePortuguese,fromBraga.”

“Idon’tspeakPortuguese.”

“Itdoesn’tmatter.You’restayingwithintheEuropeanUnion,sonoonewillcheckyourpassportat

the border. You will be given your new identity before you reach your final destination.” The woman
handedherapieceofpaper.“Memorizethisnumber.Ifyouseesomeonefromyouroldlife,telephonethis
numberandaskforMatthew.Ifyouarethreatenedoryouridentityiscompromised,traveltoGenevaand
reporttotheTriviumBank.”

“Abank?Whatcantheydo?”

“Wearthisatalltimes.”ThewomanloopedagoldnecklaceoverRaven’sheadandpointedtothe

twoitemssuspendedfromit.“Thevialcontainsasmallbutpowerfulrelic.Don’ttakeitoff.

“Thegoldcharmhasanumberstampedonit.PresentthenumberattheTriviumBank,andtheywill

assistyou.”

Afewminuteslatertwoyoungwomenenteredthevehicle.Onesatinthefrontandoneintheback

nexttoRaven.

“What’sgoingon?”sheaskedSarah,whostillstoodnexttoRaven’sopendoor.

“It’s safer to travel in a group than to travel alone. Don’t engage in conversation with them. Your

driverhasinstructionsaboutwhattodoincaseofemergency.”ThewomanextendedherhandandRaven
shookit.“Goodluck.”

“Thankyou.”

TheemotionofthemomentcaughtRavenunaware.Sheblinkedbacktears.

Sarahclosedthedoor,andthedriverstartedthecar.

TheyexitedthehiddengarageatthebackofthebuildinganddrovethroughthestreetsofFlorence

untiltheyreachedthehighway,headingnorth.

ChapterFifty-Seven

I

N

T

HE

S

PACE

B

ETWEEN

T

HREE

W

ORLDS

,twobeingsarguedoveraman’ssoul.

“There’snothingforyouhere,”thedarkangelsaid,hisvoicelikethescrapingoffingernailsagainst

achalkboard.“Thissoulbelongsbelow.”

“Itisnotforyoutodeterminetheplaceasoulbelongsafterdeath,”thesaintrebuked.

“Thissoulisours.”Thedarkangelreachedouthishand.

Thesaintblockedthedemon,standingoverthesoulthatlayprostratebetweenthem.

Thedarkangelroared.“Hissoulisdamned!”

“Herepentedattheend.”

“Repented?”Thedarkangelsneered.“Hefullyembracedthedeadlysins.Heabandonedhopeand

allowedDespairtoownhim!”

“Thedemondidnotownhim.Thetransformationwasincompletebecauseheprayedforhelp.”

“That’ssophistry.Yourbrotherpriestsdispatchedhissoultohell.”

“Yetherewestand.”

The demon craned his neck to look around the saint and view the soul. The man’s chest lifted and

fell,slowandsteady,withhumanbreath.

Thesaintsmiledatthesight.

If the dark angel could have pushed the saint aside, he would have. He examined the soul more

closely,leaningoverhim.

“Youcheated,”hehissed.“Themanwasdead.”

“Itisnotformetogivelife.ButIhaveprayedforhimformanyyears,thatgracewouldtakerootin

hissoul.”Thesaintpointeddown.“Gobackfromwhenceyoucame.Thereisnothingforyouhere.”

As soon as the command left the saint’s lips, the dark angel vanished, snarling and cursing as he

departed.

Thesaintbentdownandmadethesignofthecrossonhisstudent’sforehead.HeprayedinLatin,as

washiscustom,beseechingmercyandgraceandthankingGodfortheman’sdeliverance.

When he had finished, the student—who had been half-asleep during the encounter—fell into a

peacefulslumber.

ChapterFifty-Eight

T

HE

S

HOCK

H

ADN’T

W

ORN

O

FF

.

RavensatatanoutdoortableatCaféMozartintheoldtownsquareofPrague,drinkingcoffeeona

Saturdaymorning,stillfeelingnumb.

She’dbeenaresidentofPraguefortwomonths.

She’dtraveledfromFlorencetoAustriawiththeyoungwomenandtheirdriver.Oncethey’dentered

Innsbruck,thedriverhaddroppedofftheotherwomenatanopulentresidence.ThenheandRavenhad
switched vehicles at what appeared to be a safe house. They’d been met by a woman who changed
Raven’shairfromredtoasandybrownwithblondstreaks,andcutthealready-shortenedstrandsintoa
bob. Raven switched the blue contact lenses for brown and exchanged her Portuguese passport for a
Canadianone.

ThedriverhadthentakenhertoPrague,toanapartmentbuildingbehindtheNationalTheatre,near

the Vitava River. She’d been given the keys to a furnished one-bedroom apartment, an envelope filled
with various currencies, and a set of instructions relating to her backstory and the job that had been
securedforheratSt.VitusCathedral.

Raven was now Cassandra MacDonald, who had a B.A. in English from Queen’s University in

Kingston,Ontario,andwasinterestedinhistory.

Herjobatthecathedralwasn’tinartrestoration.Presumably,showingherabilityinthatareawould

betooconspicuous.Instead,shehadapositioninanoffice,writingandeditingmaterialsinEnglish.

Thecathedralwasincrediblymajestic,aswasSt.WenceslasChapel,whichwashousedinsidethe

cathedralandfeaturedpricelessfrescoesofthepassionofChristandthelifeofSt.Wenceslas.

Thechapelwashometoseveralrelics.ButRavencontinuedtoweartherelicSarahhadgivenher.

She touched it absently as she stared at the astronomical clock on the tower opposite, waiting for it to
strikeanddisplayfiguresofthetwelveapostles.

HerpainoverthelossofWilliamwasacute,butshehadbeenabletopushitasideasshetriedto

adjusttohernewlife.Andthatwashowsheknewshewasstillinshock.

Shetoldherselftheshockwouldwearoff.Whenshewasn’tdistractedbysomanynewthings,she

wouldbeabletogrieveproperly.Fornow,shehaddifficultyfathomingthefactthatWilliamwasgone.
Forever.

Losinghimwaslikebreakingherleg.Ittooktimeforhertoacceptthatshewouldneverrunordance

again,apartfromthewondrousdaysafterWilliamhadhealedher.Itwouldtaketimetoacceptthatthe
Curiahadmurderedhim,andshewouldneveragainbeheldinhisarms.

She sipped her coffee, noticing a man skirting the crowd that had gathered to watch the clock’s

display.Themanwasdressedallinblack,hishairpaleinthesun.

Sheplacedhercoffeecuponthetablewithshakingfingers.ThefigurelookedsolikeWilliam.

Sheleftcashforthecoffeeandtheuntouchedpastryandgrabbedthebraceshe’dbeenusinginstead

ofacane.

Thefigurewasstillvisible,walkingawayfromthecrowd.

Shemovedasquicklyasshecouldintothesquare,followinghim.Shedidn’tdareshouthisname.

Theclock’sbellbegantoringandthemanstopped.

Ravenhastenedherpace,ignoringthepainthatshotupherinjuredleg.

Themanturnedaround.

Ravenshadedherhandagainstthesuninordertomakeouthisfeatures.

Hewasveryhandsome;itwastrue.Buthewasn’tWilliam.

Shestoppedinthesquareandwatchedasthemaninblackwasjoinedbyagroupoffriends.

Astheclockfinishedstriking,shewonderedhowshecouldknowthatWilliamwasdeadandstillbe

convincedshe’dseenhiminasquareinPrague.

Thatevening,Ravenlayawake,watchingthelightandshadowsplayacrosstheceilingandwallsofher
bedroom.

“Youweretheshadowonmywall,”shewhispered,asharppainpiercingherchest.

Theshadowsdidn’treply.

ChapterFifty-Nine

AW

EEK

L

ATER

,Ravenwasreturningtoherapartmentlateatnight.

She’d indulged in an evening at the opera, losing herself in the magic of Verdi. Her building was

onlyashortwalkfromtheNationalTheatre,wheretheoperawasperformed.Shetookhertimewalking
home,herheartandmindfilledwithmusic.

Assheturnedontoherquietstreet,shefeltaprickleatthebackofherneck.

Shelookedoverhershoulder.Thestreetwasempty.

Shehastenedhersteps,leaninghardonthebrace.Hermindbegantoplaytricksonher,asmemories

ofwalkinghomeafterGina’spartyflashedbeforehereyes.

Sheignoredthepaininherlegasshemovedasfastasshecould.Asuddengustofwindblewpast.

Somedistanceawayafigurestoodintheshadowsofthebuildingacrossthestreet.

Ravenreachedherfrontdoor,fumblinginherpocketforherkeys.

“Stop,”avoicecommandedinItalian.

Ravenpretendedshedidn’tunderstand,asshe’dbeencautionedbySarah.

“Youareindanger.”Thevoicecamecloser.

Ravenfoundherkeyandputitinthelock,strugglingtoopenthedoor.

“Wait!”ThevoiceswitchedtoEnglish.“You’rewearingarelic.YouknowIcan’tharmyou.”

“Idon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout,”RavenrepliedinEnglish.

“Icometopayadebt.ThePrincewouldhaveexecutedme.Youstayedhishand.”

Raven turned to see the figure move out of the shadows and into the light shining from one of the

windowsnextdoor.

Sheopenedthedoorandheldit,preparingtofleeinside.“Whatdoyouwant?”

Borekliftedhishands,showinghewasunarmed.“It’sdangerousformetobehere.Thepresenceof

the Cu—our enemies—in Prague is small, but exists nonetheless. It’s only a matter of time before they
realizeI’mhere.”

Ravenscowled.“You’veputmeindanger.Nowthey’llhuntme.”

“They’rehuntingyoualready.”

“Whatdoyoumean?”

Boreksurveyedtheareaquickly.Heliftedhisnoiseandsniffed.

“Abodywasfoundmatchingyourdescription,butitwascrematedbeforeanyonecouldexamineit.

Aoibheandourenemiesarecurious.”

Ravenleanedagainstthefrontdoor.“Aoibhe?IthoughtshefledwithIbarra.”

“Theblackrobesputinplaceapuppetprince.Aoibhereturnedtwoweeksago.ShekilledGregor

andseizedtheprincipality.Nowshewantsrevenge.”

“Won’ttheblackrobesdeposeher?”

“Theyhavefoundanotherenemynearerhome.”

“WhataboutIbarra?”

Borekshrugged.“Heneverreturned.”

“The Roman betrayed us,” Raven couldn’t keep the bitterness out of her voice. “He promised

Williamhissupportbutwithdrewit.”

“Catohastoomuchinfluence.Anoldone’smadnesshasfinallycaughtupwithourking.”

“Youthinkhe’smad?”

Boreknodded.“WhenwewereinRome,Iheardafewthingsfromtheguards.Catohadalltheold

onesintheprincipalityslainbecausetheywereathreattohim.Hemediateseverything,controllingthe
information the Roman receives. But the Roman is paranoid and uses the guards as spies. Even so, his
memory is unreliable. He’ll give an order and when a guard carries it out, he’ll punish the guard for
actingwithoutapproval.Thepalaceisinaconstantstateofterror.

“ThePrincewastheonlycrediblethreattoCato.SohemanipulatedtheRomanintohavingtheCuria

destroyhim.”

Ravenrubbedathereyes.“Howdidyoufindme?”

“Aoibhe sent me to track you, but we thought you were in Geneva. When I didn’t find you, I

continuedthehuntonmyown.BudapestandPraguewereobviouschoices.Bothcitieshavebeencleared
ofvampyresforyears,soourenemiesfeellittleneedtopolicethem.Iwashesitanttoreturnherebecause
ofmyhistory.IwenttoBudapestfirst.”

“You’reheretokillme.”

Borekdidn’tblink.“Thatismymission.”

“You’vefailed.I’mwearingarelicandIwon’ttakeitoff.”Ravenenteredthebuildingandprepared

toshutthedoor.

“Wait!” Borek stretched out his hand, still maintaining his distance. “If I can find you, so can she.

Youhavetoleave.Tonight.”

“Soyoucantrackmetomynewdestination?Idon’tthinkso.”

“Aoibhemayhavesentothers.ShemayhavesentIbarraandhe’sfarmorepowerfulthanme.”

RavenexaminedBorek’sface.“Atanytime,IcancallmypriestandtellhimwhereIam.He’llsend

agentstorescueme.”

“Iwouldn’tbetoosureofthat.”Borekgaveheraknowinglook.

“Whatdoyoumean?”

“Theblackrobesmaycome,butitwon’tbetorescueyou.Aoibhetoldmetherewasareportyour

priesthadquittheblackrobesandreturnedtoAmerica.”

“Idoubtthat.HeonlyjustarrivedinRome.”

“Perhaps he acquired a conscience.” Borek’s tone was sarcastic. “Clearly I’m wasting my time

here.”Heturnedtogo.

“Wait,”Ravencalled.“IfIcould,I’dstartawarbetweentheCuriaandtheRomanandwatchthem

destroyeachother.TheymurderedmyWilliam.”Hervoicebroke.“Ihatethemall.”

“Finally,somethingweagreeon.”Borekfacedheronceagain.

“Willyouhelpme?”

“Helpyoudowhat?”

“Startawar.”

Boreklaughed.“That’smadness.You’dnevergetnearRome;Aoibhehastoomanyspies.”

“Helpme.Wehavecommonenemies.”

Borekpaused,almostasifheweretempted.“I’mnotcommittingsuicideforahuman’srevenge.”

He stood very tall and placed his hand on the hilt of his sword. “I’ve paid my debt. May fortune

smileonyou.”

“WhatwillyoutellAoibhe?”Ravenasked,tryingtokeeptheanxietyoutofhervoice.

“Nothing.She’satyrant.Iwon’tliveunderheryoke.

“Much as I had reason to dislike the Prince, he gave his life to save Florence when the Roman

betrayedus.ThePrincediedforallofus.”TheexpressiononBorek’sfaceshifted,asiftherealization
hauntedhim.“Theentireprincipalityisinhisdebt.Itpleasesmetohonorhissacrifice.Andyours.

“Farewell,LadyRaven.”Withaceremonialbow,Borekmeltedintotheshadows.

ChapterSixty

W

HEN

R

AVEN

E

NTERED

H

ER

A

PARTMENT

,shedidn’tbothercallingthenumbershe’dmemorized.Instead,

she reached for the guidebook Sarah had given her, which provided her with instructions and advice,
alongwithalistofsafehousesscatteredaroundtheworld.Ravendidn’tknowhowwideSarah’snetwork
wasorwhopreciselyitwasfor,butsheknewallitsresourceswereatherdisposal,ostensiblybecause
WilliamhadpaidSarahforacomprehensiverelocationplan.

Raven made note of the guidebook’s instructions on how to escape by train and packed a small

carry-onbag.ShetooktheSIMcardoutofhercellphone,asinstructed,andflusheditdownthetoilet,
replacingitwithanew,unusedSIMcard.Sheleftbehindmostofherclothesbuttookherpassportandall
thecashshe’dbeenhidinginacontainerinherfreezer.Oncethesunhadrisenabovethehorizon,shetook
ataxitothecentraltrainstation.

Usingcash,shebookedaticketonthefirsttraintoMoscowandsatinoneofthebusywaitingareas

inthestation,stayingalerttohersurroundings.

Whenitwastime,sheboardedthetrain.Butjustasthetrainwasgettingreadytoleavethestation,

she exited, limping as quickly as she could to the train that stood just across the platform. She climbed
aboard and found a seat in a crowded second-class compartment, intent on pretending to be a hapless
Anglophonetouristwhohadnoideahowtouseanautomatedticketmachine.Whentheconductorarrived,
sheplayedherpartandpaidforaticketincash.

Assheenduredthefour-hourtrainridetoVienna,shethoughtaboutherencounterwithBorek.She

thoughtaboutFatherKavanaughquittingtheCuriaandreturningtoFlorida.Shewonderedifhisactions
wereasignthatheregrettedwhathappenedtoWilliam.Mostly,however,Ravenmeditatedonheranger
withtheCuriaandplottedrevenge.

The shock of losing William was finally wearing off, and she was no longer content to accept her

currentfatewithpassivity.

The Curia had killed William by accident, allegedly. She didn’t remember everything that had

transpiredaftertheambulancecametotakeWilliamaway.Butsherememberedtheshockoneveryone’s
faces, including Father Kavanaugh’s. She remembered Father whispering to her that it shouldn’t have
happened.

Butthey’dkilledhim.Nomattertheirintentions,Williamwasdead.

Asshewatchedthesceneryflashbyherwindow,shethoughtaboutrevenge.Herunguardedwordsto

Borekplayedoverandoverinhermind.ShewonderedifshecouldtraveltoRomeandstartawar.

Borek was right. It was far more likely that Aoibhe’s spies would find her first. Then she’d be

draggedbacktoFlorencetofaceGodknewwhat.

Ifshewantedtostartawar,sheneededalliesandaplan.Sheneededrelicsandweapons.Itwould

costagreatdealofmoneytofundsuchanundertaking.

That’s when she remembered the bank. Sarah had told her to present the number stamped on the

charm around her neck at the Trivium Bank in Geneva. She was pretty sure the Trivium was the bank
Williamhadmentioned.

If she could travel to Geneva, perhaps she could withdraw enough money to finance her revenge.

PerhapsBorekwouldhelpherifshepaidhimenough.

AoibhehadknowntolookforherinGeneva.Thathadbeensometimeago,however—beforeBorek

visited Budapest and Prague. Hopefully any other spies she’d sent would have quit Geneva and begun
lookingforherelsewhere.

ToGenevashewouldgo.

ChapterSixty-One

R

AVEN

A

RRIVED

I

N

V

IENNA

,andafterashortlayoverandalast-minutechangefromonetraintoanother,

shewasboundforGeneva.

ThetripfromViennatoGenevawaslong.Shespentthenightonthetrainandarrivedatthestation

just before seven o’clock the next morning. She secured a taxi and asked the driver to take her to the
TriviumBank.Hegaveherastrangelookbutpulledawayimmediately.

SheslippedthenecklaceSarahhadgivenheroverherheadandlookedatthenumberstampedonthe

charm.Thenumberswereverysmall.

Shetookaphotoofthecharmwithhercameraandthenloopedthenecklacebackoverherhead.

Usingthephotoapplicationonherphone,sheenlargedtheimagesothenumberswerevisible.She

withdrewapieceofpaperandapenfromhercarry-onandquicklycopiedthedigits.

Some time later, the taxi driver pulled up in front of an impressive building that sat behind a high

wall.ThebankwaslocatedonRuedesAlpes,nearLakeGeneva.

“I can’t pull in.” The driver pointed to the enormous iron gates and the security guards posted on

eitherside.

Raventhankedthedriverandpaidhim,exitingthetaxi.

Sheapproachedthegates,buttheguardsstoppedherimmediately.

“Bonjour,”shegreetedthemnervously.Shehandedoneofthemthepieceofpaper.

The guard indicated that she should wait, and he entered the guardhouse, leaving her with his

companion.Shewatchedasthefirstguardliftedatelephoneandbeganspeakingtosomeone.

Inshortorderhereturned,andoneofhisassociatesappearedontheothersideoftheirongates.

Thegatesopened,andtheassociate,whowasarmed,addressedherinItalian.“Thisway,please.”

Raven shuffled behind him, following him to a large, metal door that led into the central stone

building.Thedoorswungopen,andshefollowedtheguardinside.

“Goodmorning.”AnattractivewomanwearingawhitelabcoatgreetedRaven,onceagainspeaking

Italian.“Beforewecanadmityou,weneedtoconductaDNAtest.”

Raven’smouthdroppedopen.“DNA?Isthatnecessary?Igaveyouthenumber.”

“Weneedtoknowyouarethepersonassociatedwiththenumber.”Thewoman’stonewasfirm.

“Whataboutmypassport?”

Thewoman’sforeheadwrinkled,asifRavenwasaskingaverysillyquestion.

“Willyoutakeblood?”Ravenasked,beginningtofeelsqueamish.

“Justamouthswab.”ThewomanpointedtoasmallofficeandusheredRaveninside.

Ravensighed.She’dcomethisfar.Presumably,shewassafeinsidethebank.Atleastforthepresent.

ThewomansnappedonapairoflatexglovesandopenedasmallkitwhileRavensatinanarmchair.

Shewasverytired.Shehadn’tsleptmuchonthetrain,fearfulasshewasofsomeoneaccostingher.

“Open,”thewomaninstructed.

Raven opened her mouth, and the woman scraped the inside of her cheek, placing the sample in a

plastictube.Shesealedit,placedtapeoverthetopofitandwrotesomethingonthelabel.

“Howlongwillittake?”Ravenasked.

“Notlong.Waithere.”Thewomantookoffherglovesandplacedtheminawastecan.Shetookthe

tubeandthekitanddisappeareddownthehall.

Ravenleanedbackinherchairandclosedhereyes,justforamoment.

Athroatclearedaboveher.

“Madame?”

Ravenstartledawake.“Whatisit?Whoareyou?”

She looked up into the face of an older man with neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper hair, who was

wearingsmall,wire-rimmedspectaclesandaveryexpensive-lookingsuitandtie.

He extended his hand. “Good morning, madame. Welcome to Trivium. I am Henri Marchand, the

director.”

Ravenshookhishand,stillinadazefromhavingbeenfastasleeponlyamomentbefore.

“I’msorryittooksolongformetogreetyou.Becauseit’sSunday,Iwasnotinthebuildingwhen

you arrived. And we had to confirm your identity. This way, please.” He waved his arm toward the
corridor.

“WhatwereyoutestingmyDNAfor?”Ravenstruggledtoherfeet.

“Wewerematchingitagainstthesampleyourhusbandprovidedsometimeago.”Thedirectorlifted

herbagtohisshoulderandpausedasshegotherbearings.

Sheleanedonherbrace.“Myhusband?”

“Youandheareourmostimportantclients,andIdoapologizefortheinvasivemeasures.Butthey

arenecessary,asIamsureyoucanappreciate.”Hewaitedforhertoenterthehallandfollowedher.

“I should mention immediately that the artwork your husband had transferred from your home has

arrived. Everything is in excellent condition. We have an art conservation specialist on staff, and he
matched the items with the inventory sent by your husband. It appears the entire collection has arrived
safely.”

Henrismileddownather.“Ofcourse,withyourexpertiseinartrestoration,youwillprobablywant

toassesstheconditionofthecollectionyourself.Wouldyouliketoseeitnow?”

Ravenstopped.Sheclosedhereyes,moreconfusedthanshe’dbeeninalongtime.“Whenyousay

myhusband,youmeanWilliam?”

“Ofcourse,madame.”

“Andwhenyousayartcollection,doyoumeanthepiecesfromFlorence?”

“Yes,madame.AsIsaid,everythingappearsinexcellentcondition,butofcoursewedefertoyour

expertise.”

“YouspoketoWilliam?”shewhispered.

Thedirectorpushedhisglassesuphisnose.“Wehavealwaysspokenthroughhisstaff,whichiswhy

yourpresencehereisagreathonor.We’vebeenexpectingyou.”

Theycontinuedwalkingdownthehall.

“Whendidtheartbegintoarrive?”

“Two months ago. The last piece arrived yesterday. The shipment was divided up and sent via

differentroutesforsecurityreasons.CanIofferyoubreakfastorsomesortofrefreshmentbeforewevisit
thecollection?”

Ravenstopped,thewheelsofhermindturningoverthisnewrevelation.Williamhadbeenmurdered

overtwomonthsago,whichmeantAmbrogioandLuciamusthavebeguntransferringtheartcollectionto
Genevaaroundthattime.

RavenwonderediftheGenevaprotocolshe’dheardWilliammentionbeforehisdeathincludedthe

evacuationofhisartwork.

“Monsieur Marchand, I’ve been traveling for twenty-four hours. I need a shower and a change of

clothes.Couldsomeofyourguardsescortmetoahotelandescortmeback?”

“Forgive me, madame. I’ll take you to the private apartments that have been prepared for you and

your husband.” He led her down a side corridor to an elevator and promptly placed his hand flat on a
fingerprintreader.

Thereaderglowedgreen,andtheelevatoropened.

HegesturedforRaventoprecedehimintotheelevator.

“Williamhasanapartmenthere?”

“Indeed.” The director removed his spectacles and positioned his eye for a retinal scan. The scan

glowedgreenandakeypadappearedbelowit.Hepressedaseriesofnumbers.

“ButWilliamneverusedtheapartment?”

“No,madame.Youareitsfirstoccupant.”

“Howsafeisthebank?”

Monsieurstoodtallwithpride.“Extremelysafe,madame,andfromallkindsofthreats.Shouldyou

needtoleavethebank,wecanprovideyouwithsafetransportanywhereintheworld.”

“Idon’tbelieveit,”shemuttered.

Thedirectorfrownedbutdidn’treply.

Whentheelevatordoorsopened,Ravenfoundherselfinfrontofapairoftall,gildeddoors.Once

again, the director submitted scans of his palm and retina and used an additional code. The sound of
somethingloudandmetallicechoedinthevestibule.Thedirectorplacedhishandonthedoorknoband
openedit.

Inside, Raven found an opulent sitting room, featuring blue carpet and gilded walls. The furniture

wasalsogildedandupholsteredinbluevelvet.Itwasaroomforaking.

“ThisisSimone.”Thedirectormotionedinthedirectionofawomanwearingablackuniform.“She

willprovideyouwithwhatyouneed.”

HenritransferredRaven’sbagfromhisshouldertoSimone.“Ifthere’sanythingIcando,pleaselet

meknow.Icanshowyoutheinventoryatyourconvenience.Ifyou’dprefertoviewittomorrow,wecan
doso.”

Ravenshookherhead.“No,I’dliketoseeittoday.Perhapsinacoupleofhours.”

“Verygood.”Hesmiledandretreated,closingthedoorbehindhim.

Ravenheardthesoundofaheavylocksnappingintoplace.

“ThisisthestrangestbankI’veevervisited.”Sheturnedtotakeinhersurroundings.

Given the thoroughness of Sarah and her network, Raven wasn’t surprised that William had taken

otherdetailedmeasurestopreservehisartcollectionandhersafety.Clearly,thebankstaffhadnoideahe
wasdead.Shewasn’tabouttotellthem,fortheymightwithdrawtheirprotection.

ShewonderedwhatthestaffknewaboutWilliamandtheworldofvampyres.Shewonderedifthe

bank simply viewed him as a wealthy, eccentric client, or if they understood he had been the Prince of
Florence.

“Icanshowyoutheotherrooms,madame,”Simone’svoiceintrudedonRaven’smusings.“ShallI

drawabath?”

“Yes,please.”

“ShallIunpackforyou?”

“No,thatisn’tnecessary.”

“Verygood,madame.”Simoneescortedherthroughasidedoorandintoalargebedroomdecorated

in a similar fashion to the sitting room, except the velvet was red. A large canopied bed stood in the
centeroftheroom.

TheroomremindedRavenofthebedroomshe’dsharedwithWilliaminhisvilla.

Simone placed Raven’s bag on the bed and walked to one of the side walls, pushing a button to

revealaconcealeddoor,whichswunginwardtoaspaciousmarblebathroom.

“Your clothes have already been cleaned, pressed, and unpacked.” Simone moved to another wall

andpressedanotherbutton.Thistimedoubledoorsopened.

“Myclothes?”Raventriedveryhardtohidehershock.

“Yourhusband’sthingsareoverhere.”Simonecrossedtotheothersideoftheroomandopenedthe

matchingcloset.

Ravenstaredafterher.

Rowsandrowsofblackshirts,trousers,andjacketshungneatlyinthelargecloset.Rowsandrows

ofblackshoesrestedbelowonaseriesofracks.ItlookedexactlylikeWilliam’sclosetinhisbedroomin
Florence.

“If there is anything you would like pressed or freshened up, please let me know. It can be done

immediately.”SimonegaveRavenalittlesmileanddisappearedintothebathroom.Thesoundofrunning
waterechoedthroughtheapartment.

RavenwalkedtoWilliam’sclothesandgrabbedthefirstshirtshetouched,tuggingitcarelesslyfrom

itshangerandpressingitagainsthernose.Therewasstillatraceofhisscent.Shewadedintothecloset,
disappearingintotheshirtsandinhalingdeeply.Tearsfilledhereyes.Sheclappedahandoverhermouth

tostifleasob.

By the time Simone returned, she was seated on the bed, one of William’s shirts lying next to her.

She’dtuckedseveralofhishandkerchiefsintoherbag.

Theyweresmallthings,buttheywereallshehadleftofhim.

ChapterSixty-Two

“IT

RUST

B

REAKFAST

wastoyoursatisfaction?”MonsieurMarchandsmiledasheescortedRavenintoan

elevatorinaremoteareaattheveryrearofthebank.

“Yes,thankyou.You’vebeenverykind.”Raventoyedwiththetietohergreenwrapdress.Shefelt

funnydressingup,butitwascomfortingtowearoneofherfavoriteoutfits.Williamhadalwayspraised
it.

“The artwork is stored in a series of subterranean vaults. The vaults are controlled for light,

temperature,andhumidity.WeusedtheUffizi’sspecifications,buteverythingcanbeadjusted.”

“Andtheinventory?”Ravenfollowedthedirectoroutoftheelevatoroncethey’dreachedthelowest

level.

“I’vepreparedapapercopyforyou.”Thedirectorrepeatedthesecuritymeasuresbeforeenteringa

narrow,white-walledhall.

Heperformedthepalmandretinalscanatthefirstdooronhisright.

Whentheyenteredtheroom,dimlightingshonefromoverhead.Adeskandchairstoodnearby,along

withaleatherfolio.

“Thisistheinventory.”Thedirectorhandedittoher.“It’salphabetizedbyartist,andeachworkhas

acorrespondinglocation.Icanassistyouinviewingthevaults.Orperhapsyou’dratherproceeditemby
item?”

RavenleafedthroughtheinventorytotheletterB.

Botticelli—IllustrationsofDante’sDivineComedy.VaultA9C.

“I’dliketoseethesefirst.”Shepointedtotheentry.

“Verygood.”

Within a few minutes, they were inside one of the temperature-controlled vaults, and Monsieur

Marchandwasliftingawoodenboxfromalabeledshelf.Heplaceditonanearbydeskandgesturedto
Raventotakeaseatbehindit.

Sheputonapairofwhitegloveshe’dprovidedandcarefullyopenedthebox.There,inaseriesof

folios, were the illustrations that had caused so much trouble; illustrations William had acquired from
Botticellicenturiesearlier,andthathadsomehowbeenstolenfromhimbyLorenzo,thelieutenantwho’d
betrayedhim.

RavenleafedthroughthefoliosuntilshefoundthedrawingofDanteandBeatriceinthesphereof

Mercury.Sheremoveditcarefully.

Itwassobeautiful.Sofragile.

“Assessing their condition may take time.” Raven spoke without lifting her head, hiding her

emotions.

“Ofcourse,madame.Thereisanintercomtoyourright.PleasecontactmeifImaybeofassistance.”

Thedirectorleftherinprivacy.

Shereplacedtheillustrationinthebox,closeditfirmly,andremovedhergloves.Leafingthroughthe

inventory,shediscoveredtheprizedMichelangeloonthelist,alongwithBotticelli’salternativeversion
of Primavera. William had even arranged to have some of her own sketches transferred. It was a
bittersweetrevelation.

Atearstreakeddownhercheek.

She continued reading the inventory, so engrossed that some time later she barely heard the door

openandclose.

Raventwistedawayfromthedoor,clutchingtheinventorytoherchest.

“Ineedmoretime,”shefaltered.

“Moretime?”afamiliarvoiceasked.

“Yes.”Ravenheldtheinventorymoretightly.

“Cassita,”thevoicewhispered.

ChapterSixty-Three

N

EXT

T

O

T

HE

D

OOR

stoodamandressedinblack.

His hair was fair and tinged with gray at the temples. Laugh lines radiated from his eyes. A scar

marredhischin.

Hiseyeswerefamiliar—alightandbeautifulgray—andsowashisvoice.

“Cassita.”Hesmiled,liketheshiningofthesun,andheldouthisarms.

The pages of the inventory fluttered to the floor. Raven shrieked and put the desk between them.

“Howdidyougetinhere?”

“It’sme,”hesaid,hissmilevanishing.“It’sWilliam.”

“Williamisdead.”

“Lookatme.Iamnotdead.”Themanbeganunbuttoninghisdressshirt.

“Stop!”shecried.“Whatareyoudoing?”

Heexposedhischest.“Myheartbeatsnormallynow.Come,feel.”

“No, thank you.” Raven narrowed her eyes, examining his face, chest, and hands. He looked like

William, it was true, but William at about age forty rather than the twenty-something vampyre she’d
knownhimas.

“Youchangedyourhair.”Onesideofhismouthtippedup.“Andyoureyecolor.”

Shedidn’trespond.

Herubbedhisthumbacrosshislowerlip.“ThisremindsmeofthedayIhadtoprovetoyouIwasa

vampyre.”

He lifted his hand and stared at it. “I’ve been transformed. My heart beats, and red blood flows

throughmyveins.Ican’tbedrivingdaggersintothisbodywithoutdoingdamage.”

Ravenignoredhisdisplayandkepthergazefocusedonhiseyes.“Howdoyouknowaboutthat?”

“Ithinkyouknowtheanswer.”Hestudiedthefloor,asifheweremeasuringthedistancebetween

them.

Ravenflattenedherselfagainstthewall,hereyesmovingtothebraceshe’dabandonednexttothe

desk.Itwasheronlyweapon.

Theman’sgazemovedtohers,andhisexpressiontookonanewintensity.“Doyourememberthe

firsttimeIcametoyourapartment?WhenIgaveyoutherelicfrommyteacher?”

Raven’s eyes widened, for as far as she knew, she and William had never discussed the events of

thatnightwithanyone.

“IcalledyouJanebymistake,becauseI’dseenthenameinyourpassport.Wetalkedaboutmercy

andjustice.Iorderedyoutoleavethecity.”Hechuckled.“Ofcourse,youdidn’tlisten.I’mglad.Ifyou’d
fledthecity,I’dneverhaveknownyou.I’dneverhaveknownhope,dancinginmyarms.”

Ravencoveredhermouthwithherhand.

Theman’sbrowcrinkled.“IbroughtyourstepfatherfromCaliforniaandpresentedhimtoyouasa

macabrebirthdaypresent.Butyouinstructedmetosendhimtothepoliceinstead.Youaskedmetosetup
afundtohelpthechildrenhe’dabused.DidMonsieurMarchandtellyouthatheandhisstaffmanagethe
fund?Itwassetupinyourname,yournameandCara’s.”

Ravenshookherhead,toosurprisedtospeak.

Themantookastepforward.“I’msorryittookmesolongtofindyou.WhenIwokeup,Ihadlost

mymemory.Ithoughtitwas1274,andthatmyteacherhadjustdied.Ionlycametomyselfafewdays
ago.ButI’mherenow.Iloveyou,Raven.IswearbyallthatisholyIwillneverleaveyoursideagain,so
longasIlive.”Hisexpressiongrewtortured.

“William?”shewhispered,hopingagainsthope.

“Iswearonmyteacher.”

Sherushedovertohim,throwingherhandsabouthisneck.

William’sarmswerestrongastheywoundaroundher,crushinghertohischest.“Didtheyhurtyou?”

“SarahwasabletogetmeawayfromtheCuriabeforetheycouldadjustmymemories.”Shespoke

ashertearsraineddownonhischest.

“You’recrying.”

“OfcourseI’mcrying.You’realive.”

Beneath her ear his heart pounded, strong and steady. She pulled back in wonder. “Your heart is

beating.”

“Ittendstodothatnow.”

“Don’t you dare! Don’t you dare make a joke. I saw what they did to you.” Her voice broke. “I

watchedyoudie.”

William’sowneyesbegantowater.“Iamsorryyouhadtoseethat.I’msorryittookmesolongto

return.”

Ravenbrushedthetearsfromhiseyes,andWilliamgraspedherhand,staringattheevidenceofhis

emotion.

“ThosearethefirsttearsI’vecriedsince1274.”

Raven placed her palm inside his opened shirt, against his chest. The rhythm of his heartbeat

continuedwithoutanyofthestrangepausesithadfavoredwhilehewasavampyre.

Sheshookherhead.“You’rehuman?”

“Yes. I’ve aged, as you can see. The scar I earned in a fall from a horse when I was sixteen has

returned.”Hegesturedtohischin.

Reverently,Raventracedhisscar.Sheplacedherhandsagainsthisface,studyingitintently.“You’re

olderthanIamnow.”

Hechuckled.“Iwasalwaysolderthanyou.”

“You know what I mean. You were in your twenties when you were changed. You look older than

thatnow.”

“Isthataproblem?”heaskedquickly.

“Ofcoursenot.Ijustdon’tunderstandwhathappened.”

“Ican’texplainwhyI’veaged.ThiswasthefaceIsawinthemirrorafterIawoke.Butasforthe

transformation,Cassita,it’snothingshortofamiracle.Idon’tknowifyou’llbelieveme.Butfirst…”

Tentatively,hegrazedhercheek.Whenshedidn’tpullaway,hebroughttheirmouthstogether.His

warmlipspouredoverhers,acontrasttothecoolnessofhispreviousform.

Hekissedherintensely,butwithpatience,tastingandsavoringherlipsandtheinsideofhermouth.

Whentheyparted,hepressedhereartohisheartandkissedherhair,overandoveragain.

“Ididn’texpectyoutobehere.IthoughtSarah’speopleevacuatedyoutoPrague.”

“Theydid,butBorekpaidmeavisit.”

Williampulledback.“Borek?Wereyouwearingarelic?”

“Yes.”Shepointedtohernecklace.“Boreksaidhecametowarnme—thatAoibhesenthimtohunt

me.HelookedformehereandinBudapest,thendecidedtovisitPrague.That’swherehefoundme.”

“Youbelievehim?”

“Idon’tknow.HewarnedmeAoibhecouldhavesentothersandthatIshouldflee.Healsotoldme

shehadseizedcontrolofFlorence.Hedidn’twanttoliveunderherrule.”

“Icanimagine.SoAoibhegainedthethroneshealwayswanted.MypoorFlorence.”Williamwore

afarawaylookonhisface.“Weshouldgoupstairs.”

They exited the vault and retraced the path to the elevator. The doors opened to reveal Monsieur

Marchand,whowasholdingalarge,flatwoodenbox.“Ihavetheitemsyourequested,sir.”

“Excellent.”Williamtooktheboxfromhim.“Wewishtoretiretotheapartment,undisturbed.”

“Of course.” The director accompanied them upstairs and to the other elevator before taking his

leave.

Williampunchedacodeintotheelevatorkeypad,andthedoorsopened.

“Youdon’thavetohaveyourpalmread?Oryoureyeballscanned?”Ravengazedathimskeptically

astheyenteredtheelevator.

“No.”

“Whynot?”

Hepressedhislipstohertemple.“BecauseIownthebank,andIdidn’twanttogivethemvampyre

biometrics.”

“Dotheyknowyou’reavampyre?”

“ThatIwasavampire?No.”

“Youownthewholebank?”

“Yes.Ifoundeditinthefourteenthcentury,becauseIdidn’ttrusttheMediciwithmymoney.Over

time, I have notified the bank staff of my death and the name of my heir. Funny how all of them were
namedWilliam.”Hewinked.

“Buttheartwork,ourclothes—howdidyouarrangeeverythingtobemoved?”

William’sfeaturesgrewgrim.“LongbeforeImetyou,Iputinplaceanevacuationplanforthethings

Itreasuredmostincaseofahumanwar,fire,orsomeotherthreat.WhenitlookedasiftheCuriawould
marchonFlorence,Iorderedmystafftosendeverythinghere.Iwantedtheartcollectionpreservedfor
you.”

Theelevatordoorsopened,revealingtheentrancetotheapartment.Onceagain,Williamentereda

numberonakeypad,andthedoorsswungopen.

Ravenheadedforthebedroom,andWilliamfollowed.

Shesatonthebedandputherbraceaside.Thensheremovedhercoloredcontactlenses,discarding

themontoasidetable.

“Muchbetter.”Williamtookherhandsinhis.“Thebraveyoungwomanwiththegreat,greeneyes.I

knew the night I first saw you that you were one of the greatest goods of the world and I should do
whateverittooktosaveyou.SeehowblessedIambecauseofyou?”

Raventuggedathishand,andhesatnexttoher.

“What’sintheboxMonsieurMarchandgaveyou?”

“Therelicsofmyteacher.”Williamkissedherfingertips,onebyone.“Theyweretransferredwith

everythingelse.Ican’tbeartobeseparatedfromthem.”

“Monsieurkeepsreferringtoyouasmyhusband.”

“Alongwiththearttransfer,Ileftinstructionsforthebanktowelcomemybeautifulwife.Iwanted

youtohavearefuge.”Williamfumbledinthepocketofhistrousers.

Hewithdrewhishand.Nestledinhispalmweretwoplaingoldbands.

“It was not the best of circumstances in which to make a vow, but do you recall the words we

exchangedintheDuomo?”

Raven’sgazeliftedfromtheringstohiseyes.“Yes.”

“IpledgedmyselftoyoubeforeGod.Youdidthesame.”Heliftedthesmallerring,andhisfaceheld

aquestion.

Sheheldoutherlefthand,andheslippedtheringoverherfinger.

“Nohesitation.”Hisexpressiongrewthoughtful.

“Imadeupmymindalongtimeago.”Shepluckedthelargerringfromhispalmandslippeditover

hisfinger.“Iwouldhavemarriedyoubefore,ifyou’dasked.”

Adeepsighofreliefescapedfromhischest.

Sheplacedherarmaroundhiswaist.“Didyoudoubtme?”

“No,I’mjustgratefulforthissecondlife.IswearIwilldoallIcantoloveandprotectyou.”

“Iswearthesame.”Shekissedhim.

Williammadeahungrynoiseinthebackofhisthroatandpulledheratophim.Hishandscaressed

herbackbeforeslidingdowntothefullnessofherbottomandgrippingitsensuously.

Ravenpushedhisshirtopenandpepperedhischestwithkisses.Shelatchedontothesideofhisneck

anddrewthefleshintohermouth.

Williamgroaned.

“Thiswillbedifferent,”shewhispered,bringingherfacewithininchesofhis.

“Yes.”Hisgrayeyesclouded.

“IpromiseI’llbegentle.”Shewinkedwithagrin.

Hekissedhernose.

“Thankyou.Doyou—”William’sunspokenquestionhungintheair.

Shesqueezedhisshoulders.“Ask.”

“Willyoumissit?Thewayitwas,thewayIwasbefore?”

Shecockedherheadtooneside.“AreyouWilliam?”

“Yes.”

“Doyouloveme?”

Hesqueezedhertightly.“Withoutquestion.”

“Thenthere’snothingtomiss.Iwasdevastatedwhenyoudied.Iwonderedifthepainwouldever

lessen.I’mnotgoingtowastetimecomingupwithsillypseudo-problemstokeepusapart.”

She placed her hand against his face, marveling at the stubble that scratched her palm. “For some

reason,theuniversegaveyoubacktome.I’mnotgoingtoquestionit,andI’mnotgoingtocriticizeit.
Theycouldhavebroughtyoubackbrokenorburned,andIwouldhavetakenyougladlyandthankedGod
foryou.

“This is our chance at happiness, and we shouldn’t waste a moment second-guessing it. Love me,

William,asyouhavealwayslovedme.Anditwillbeeverything.”

Williamswitchedtheirpositions,carefullytendingtoherinjuredleg.

“Ialwayslikedthisdress.”Hishandsworkedbetweenthem,unwrappingher.

Ravenpushedhisshirtoffhisshouldersandunfastenedhisbelt.

“Magnificent,”hemurmured,gazingappreciativelyatherbodyashedivestedhimselfoftherestof

hisclothes.

Hetookhistimeremovingherunderthings,hishandsglidingacrossherskin.

“Youhaven’tbeeneating.”Williamappeareddismayedasheexploredhercurves,curvesthatwere

uncharacteristicallymodest.

“It’sdifficulttoenjoyfoodwhenyou’reinsorrow.”

“I’msorry.”Hepressedhislipstoeachrib,kissingthemrepentantly.

Ravenloopedanarmaroundhisneck,drawinghimtohersotheirmouthscouldmeet.Sheslidher

hands down his spine, reveling in the warm smoothness of him and the small imperfections she
encounteredforthefirsttime.

Williamtastedherbreasts,nippingandsuckingashishipsalignedwithhers.

Hewaswarm,sowarm.Andtheheatbetweentheirbodiesgrewastheymadecontact.

“Ineedyou.”Raven’sgreeneyesburnedintohis.

His thumb found her cheek, and he brushed it tenderly. Then, with his other hand at her hip, he

enteredher.

Ravenshuthereyes.Itwasafullnessshehadneverexpectedtofeelagain.Buthewasthere,above

her,insideher,surroundingherwithloveandwarmth.

Williamgroaned,bracinghisarmsnexttohershoulders.

Sheopenedhereyesjustashethrustagainstamostdelightfulplace.

“Idon’tthinkIcan—”Williamgrittedhisteeth,unabletocompletehissentence.

“It’sokay.I’mclose.”Herhandstraileddowntohisbackside,urginghimforwardassheliftedher

hipsintimewithhisthrusts.

Shemoanedsoftlywithhismovements.Andthen,shefeltit.Thebeginningofagloriouscompletion,

like a note that hung in the air for several beats. The pleasure coursed through her body, igniting every
nerve.

Williamgruntedhisfrustrationandbegantothrusterratically.

Asherorgasmcrestedandwaned,Raven’sbodyrelaxed.

“Didyou?”hewhisperedroughly,hispacequickening.

“Oh,yes.”Shegrinned.

“Good.”Withaloudcry,Williamthrustdeeply,pouringhimselfintoher.

Hisarmsgaveout,andhecollapsed,buryinghisfaceinherneck.

“Usuallyyoubitemeduringandnotafter,”Ravenremarked.

Williamnippedatherskin.

Shelaughed,andhejoinedher,thehappysoundechoingthroughtheopulentapartment.

“I didn’t think I’d ever laugh again,” she confessed, running her fingers through his mussed hair,

payinghomagetothegraybitsathistemples.

“Ididn’teither.”Heshiftedtohisside,hishandonherabdomen.Hiseyesweregrave.

Ravenreadthequestiononhisface.Butshetookhertimechoosingherwords.

“Ithink,perhaps,therewerethreedifferentWilliams.”

“Three?”

“TheWilliamyouwerewhenyouwereyoung,theWilliamyouwereasavampyre,andtheWilliam

youarenow.Butsomethinghasremainedconstant.Somepartofyouremainedthesame.Thatcore,that
soul,iswhoIlove.

“Notthemoney,orthepower,oreventhebeautifulartcollectionthey’rehidingdownstairs.Iwould

havetradedallthosethingstohaveyouwithmeforonemoreday.”Shehuggedhimclose.“NowIhave
you,I’mneverlettinggo.”

Hekissedherforehead.“Skillfullyput.”

“Ispeakthetruth,Mr.Malet.”

“Thankyou,Mrs.Malet.”Heclearedhisthroat,andhisgazewanderedtoherbreasts.“Let’strythe

neverlettinggopartonemoretime.”

Twohourslater,thecouplehadshoweredandfinishedlunch.

“Whydidn’tyougotoPraguefirst?”Ravenasked,sittingonWilliam’slap.

“Ineededmoney,andIneededtoarrangesafetransportforbothofus.SoIcamehere.”

“Howsafeisthebank?”

Hetracedapatternonherthigh.“Asafortress,it’smodest.Buttherelicsofmyteacherarestrong

enoughtomakethebankassafeasourvillaagainstvampyres.IfBorekfollowedyoufromPrague,andI
surmisehedid,wearesafefromhimandhiskind—unlesstheRomanlearnsI’mhere.”

“Couldheattackabuildingthathousesrelics?”

“No,buthe’spowerfulenoughtofindawayarounditorperhapseventojoinforceswiththeCuria.”

“BorekthinkstheRomanisgoingmad.”

William gave her a long look. “I think Borek is right. I didn’t see it clearly before, but I think

madnesshasseizedpartoftheRoman’smind.Inhistwistedthinking,hebelievesIbetrayedhimforyou.
He was always jealous of my affections. Perhaps he took perverse pleasure in handing me over to our
enemies.”

Ravenmutteredacurse.“DotheCuriaknowyou’realive?”

Williamscratchedhisnewlyshavenchin.“Idon’tknow.Obviously,theydon’thavemybody.ButI

don’tknowifreportsofmycurrentstatehavereachedthem.Forbothoursakes,I’vebeenprayingthey
remainignorant.”

“Ifyouaren’tavampyre,whywouldtheywantyou?”

Williamgrimaced.“Theywantbothofus,Raven.Yourpriestwantsyourmemoriesadjustedsoyou

won’tbeasecurityrisk.TheCuriawantsmetoinformontheRomanandotherpowerfulvampyres.But
they’dinterrogatemefirst,tryingtounderstandwhatmademedifferentfromtheothers.”

“Doyouknowtheanswer?”

“Ithinkso.ButIonlyrealizeditafterIdied.”Hegaveherahalfsmile.“It’sastrangestory,andabit

ofalongone.”

“Iwanttohearit.”Ravenadjustedherselfintoamorecomfortablepositiononhislap,restingher

head on his shoulder. “I should probably mention that Borek said Father Kavanaugh quit the Curia and
returnedhome.”

“Thatwouldbethehonorablethingtodo.”

“Youhaven’tforgivenhim,haveyou?”

William studied her. “I don’t believe he intended to kill my human nature. I think they wanted to

destroythevampyre.”

“That’sstillkilling.”

Williamtightenedhisarmsaroundher.“ThelastthingIrememberbeforeeverythingwentdarkwas

thesoundofyouscreaming.Ifeltmysoulleavemybody,andIhoveredovereveryone.Isawyouand
FatherKavanaugh.I—”

William’sstorywasinterruptedbytheringingofatelephone.

Hefrowned.“Itoldthemwewerenottobedisturbed.”

Thetelephonerangagain.

“Excuse me.” He helped Raven to her feet and strode over to the bed, lifting the handset of the

telephone.“Yes?”

Raven followed, catching Monsieur Marchand’s last words, “—military-style convoy, with

diplomaticplates.”

“Where?”askedWilliam,hiseyesmeetingRaven’s.

“Justoutsidethecity,sir.”

“Andtheintelligencereport?”

“We have been unable to identify the convoy, sir. If they’re headed here, they’ll arrive in thirty

minutes.”

“Right.We’releavingatonce.Prepareforourdeparture.”Williamhungupthephone.

Ravengrabbedhishand.“Curia?”

“Wedon’tknow,butIdon’twanttotakethechance.Packwhateveryoucan’tlivewithout.”

Raventwinedherfingerswithhis.“You.YouarewhatIcan’tlivewithout.”

Heliftedherhandtohismouthandkissedit.

Within twenty minutes, Raven and William had changed their appearances and were carrying Swiss
diplomaticpassports.

AdecoyMercedeshadalreadylefttheTriviumthroughthebackgates,headingforGenevaAirport.

RavenandWilliamrodeinablackRangeRoverwithdiplomaticplates,accompaniedbyadriver

andanarmedguard,headingsouthtotheFrenchborder.

AnothertwentyminutesandtheyhadcrossedintoFrance,enteringSaint-Julien-en-Genevois,where

aprivatejetwaitedforthem.

Ravenheldherbreathastheplanetaxiedontheairfield.Anxiously,shesurveyedtheirsurroundings

andthesnow-cappedmountainsinthedistance.

Nexttoher,Williamexhaledloudlyanddrewadeepbreath.

“It’sgoingtobeallright,”shewhispered,hergazesweepingthelandscape.“Ithastobe.”

Theplanetookoff,andwhenthey’dfinallyreachedtheircruisingaltitude,Williambegantorelax.

Ravengavehimanencouragingsmile.“Youstillhaven’ttoldmewhathappenedtoyou.”

“Iwill,”heclearedhisthroat.“ButIthinkweneedtodiscussournextstepsfirst.”

Heturnedinhisseattofaceher.“Iwanttolivetherestofmydayswithyou,insafety.Ifyouwantto

stay in Europe, we can. But I believe it will be safer for us to go far, far away. At least for the near
future.”

“Wherewouldwego?”

“Iownpropertyaroundtheworld.Myrecommendationisthatweplaceasmuchdistancebetween

usandtheCuriaaspossible.IownasecretislandinFrenchPolynesia,nearBoraBora.Wecantravelto
theislandinaboutadayandahalf.”

“Whataboutthepilots?Cantheyflythatfar?”

“They’rebeingwellpaid.Theywilltakeuswhereverwewanttogo.”

Raven’smouthwidenedintoasmile.“YouwanttotakemetoTahiti?”

“Thereabouts.”

“Okay.”

Hechuckled.“Youdon’twanttothinkaboutit?”

Raventurnedandlookedoutthewindow.Sheexaminedthelandscapebeneaththemandthesnowy

Alpsthatclimbedtotheclouds.

Whenshespoke,hertonewaswistful.“Imissmysister.IhopesomedayI’llbeabletotellherI’m

alive.ButIdon’twanttodoanythingthatwillmakeheratargetfortheCuriaoranyoneelse.Iagreewe
needtodisappear.”Ravenhalf-smiled.“Tahitiiswarm.Youcanjoinmeinthesunshinenow.”

“Itdoesn’thavetobeforever.”William’sfacegrewserious.“ButtheislandisthesafestplaceIcan

thinkoffornow.”

“What’stheislandcalled?”

Williamgrinnedsheepishly.“Ialwaysreferredtoitastheisland.You’llhavetopickanameforit.”

He sat back in his seat and rested his head against the headrest. “Now it’s time for me to explain

whathappened…”

ChapterSixty-Four

“A

FTER

IF

ELT

M

Y

S

OUL

L

EAVE

M

Y

B

ODY

,everythingwentdark.MyfirstthoughtwasthatI’dfailedyou.

I’dfailedthecityandmypeople.I’dfailedmyteacher.”William’svoicegrewthick.

AtRaven’ssignal,theflightattendantretrievedtwobottlesofwaterfromtheminibarandopened

them,pouringthewateroverice.

Williamdrankthewatergratefully.“DoyourememberthestoryofGuidodaMontefeltro?”

“Yes,Ithinkwetalkedaboutthisonce.DantetellsGuido’sstoryintheInferno.Guidoclaimedthat

St.FrancisofAssisicameforhissoulwhenhediedbutlostittoademon.”

“Yes.”Williamstudiedher.

“Youaren’ttellingmethatSt.Franciscameforyoursoul?”

“No.”Hisgazedroppedtothecarpetoftheplane.“ButIsawmyteacher.

“IthoughtIwasdead,butIcouldhearvoices.Icouldhearmyteacherarguingwithsomeone,arguing

about my soul. And then, all of a sudden, my teacher said, ‘He is not dead.’ And I realized I was still
alive.”William’seyeslifted.

“Yousawhim?”

“I’dknowhimanywhere.Irecognizedhisvoice,hisface.Hewasthere.Hespoketome.”William

stopped,momentarilyovercome.

“Iwasgivenmercy—asecondchance.WhenIopenedmyeyes,Iwasalone,lyingonatable.

“IrealizenowIwasinthehospitalinFlorence.Butatthatmoment,IhadnoideawhereIwas.My

memory of being a vampyre was completely gone. I couldn’t even remember listening to my teacher a
momentearlier.AllIcouldrememberwashisdeathandbeinginmourninginFossanova.That’swhereI
thoughtIwas.

“I was half-naked, so I wrapped a sheet around my body, determined to return to the monastery. I

stumbledoutsideandcollapsedinthestreet.

“I’mnotsurehowlongIwasthere,butsomeonefoundme.”Williamhesitated.

“Who?”

“ADominican.Mymindwassoscrambled,Icouldn’tspeakItalianorEnglish.Icouldonlyspeak

LatinandAnglo-Norman.ThebrotherthoughtIwasmadandtriedtotakemebacktothehospital,butI
kepttellinghimIwasaDominicanandmyteacherhadjustdied.IthinkhebroughtmetotheDominican
Housejusttoplacateme.”

“ButwhatabouttheCuria?Aren’ttheDominicanspartofthem?”

“Someofthemare.Butthesebrothersseemedtohavenoknowledgeofwhathadtranspiredatthe

Duomo, and they certainly didn’t recognize me. The Dominican who rescued me took me to an older
brotherwhoseLatinwasbetter,andIexplainedtohimwhoIwas.

“Theygavemesomeclothesandsomefood.Theygavemeaplacetosleep.Itwascleartheyhadno

ideawhattodowithme,andIthinkseveralofthemwantedtosendmebacktothehospital.Buttheold

DominicanwasadamantthatIstaywiththem.WhatevertheythoughtIwasorwhatIwassuffering,they
knewIwasn’tavampyre.Therewererelicsalloverthehouse.”

“Relicsneverbotheredyouanyway.”

“Notmuch,that’strue.”

“Whydoyouthinkthatis?”

“I think the relics that belonged to my teacher never bothered me because he never rejected me.”

EmotioncoloredWilliam’svoice.“Heprayedforme,hopingIwouldfindmywaybacktoGod.Henever
lostthathope.”

“Youbelieve,then?YoubelieveinGodagain?”

“Yes,butIcansaythatIneverstoppedbelievinginhimcompletely.Youweretheonewhotoldme

you thought my teacher would have compassion for me for reaching out to the Roman when I was in
despair. Even as I took what he offered me, I regretted it. It wasn’t what I wanted; I just wanted my
teacher.Ibeggedhimtohelpme,andIknownowthathedid.”

Raven shifted in her seat so she could see William more clearly. “The voice we heard during the

exorcism,itsaiddespair.Whatwasthat?”

“I’mnotsure,”Williamhedged.“FromthemomentItransformedintoavampyre,Ifeltthedarkness

ofdespairsurroundme.ItwaslikedrinkingwhatI’dthoughtwasthewateroflifeonlytodiscoveritwas
poisoned.”

“Sovampirismwasyourpunishmentforgivingintodespair?”

“No.” William shook his head emphatically. “The Roman offered me power, and wealth, and

sonship.BecauseIhadgivenuphopeofhavingagoodlifewithoutmyteacher,Iwillinglytookwhatthe
Roman offered. But I regretted the choice immediately. My teacher said the transformation was
incomplete.Perhapsthat’swhyIcouldwalkonholygroundandhandlerelics.Ididn’tgiveintodespair
entirely,andbecauseofthatandtheprayersofmyteacher,Ineveracquiredthefullnatureofavampyre.”

Ravenponderedwhathe’dsaid.“Iguessitwasn’tacoincidenceyouwerefoundbyaDominican.”

Williamsmiled.“Idon’tthinkso.Thebrotherscouldhavesentmebacktothehospital.I’msurethe

Curia was looking for my body. But the brothers kept me while I regained my strength. Then, several
weekslater,theytookmetoFossanova.

“I had no memory beyond 1274. One of the Dominicans thought it might help to bring me to the

monasterywheremyteacherdied.Afewofthebrotherstraveledwithme.

“Whenwearrived,itwasasifI’dneverleft.Iwassoconvincedmyteacher’sbodywasthere.Iwas

soconvincedmybrotherswerestillthere.Ofcourse,theyweren’t.

“I spent a lot of time in the monastery and praying in the chapel, trying to figure out what had

happened.I’dalwayshadagoodmemory.I’dalwaysbeenstrong.Ifeltsoweak,sopowerless.

“OnenightIclimbedtothetopofanearbyhill.”Williamclearedhisthroat.“Itwasthesamehill

wheretheRomanfoundme.

“Iwasthereforsometime,tryingtofigureoutwhattodo.That’swheneverythingflashedbeforeme.

I fell to my knees, overwhelmed by my memories. I remembered the Roman and my transformation. I
rememberedtravelingtoFlorenceanddeposingtheoldprince.Irememberedyou.”

HebrushedRaven’sknuckleswithhisthumb.“AssoonasIrememberedyou,Iwantedtoleave.I’d

madearrangementsbeforeMachiavelli’scoupforyoutohavesafepassageoutofthecity.IchosePrague
because I thought it would be the safest place, away from vampyres and Curia alike. But even though I
paid Sarah’s network well, I was worried they’d failed. What if the Curia had you? What if they’d
alreadyerasedyourmemories?Ihadtofindyou.

“I had nothing—no passport, no money. I went to the brothers and explained that my memory had

returned.Iwasabusinessman,Iwasmarried,andIurgentlyneededtogettoGenevasoIcouldlocate
you.”

“Youlied?”Ravenpokedhimintheside.

“YouandIpledgedourselvestooneanother—firstontheLoggiasomemonthsagoandagaininthe

Duomo.”Hethumbedtheringsheworeonherlefthand.“Wearemarried.”

“Agreed.”Sheliftedhishandandkissedtheskinabovehisgoldband.“WhatdidtheDominicans

say?”

“Ithink some ofthem continued tobelieve I was disturbed.Or they thoughtI was deceiving them.

But the others believed me, and they secured a train ticket to Geneva and gave me money to travel. I
didn’thaveapassport,buttheSwissrarelycheckpassportsattheborderwithItaly.Itookthenighttrain
andmademywayhere.”Williamexhaledloudly.“Youknowtherest.”

Ravenleanedherheadagainsthisshoulder.“Howdoyoufeelnow?”

“Different.”Williampassedahandoverhiseyes.“I’mstilladjustingtothisbody.It’sstrangetofeel

my heart beat regularly. It’s strange to have to breathe. I have memories of my human life, long ago, as
wellasmemoriesofwhenIwasavampyre.SometimesIgetmixedup.”

“Youdon’tfeeltheurgetodrinkblood?Orclimbthesidesofbuildings?”

Williampressedhislipstohertemple.“No.ThefirsthumanfoodIcravedwasroastvenison.Istill

haven’thadityet.TheDominicansseemtosubsistonfishandchicken.”

Ravenponderedhiswordsasthewarmthofhisbodyradiatedtohers.

“Idon’tknowwhattosay.”

“Youdon’tbelieveme?”William’sfacewasstricken.

“Ibelieveyou,butit’shardformetobalancewhatIknowabouttheworldwithwhatyou’vejust

described. I don’t believe in God or an afterlife. But I’ve seen things, strange things I can’t explain. I
don’tunderstandthewhirlwindwesawintheDuomo.Idon’tunderstandhowIcouldwatchyoudieasa
vampyreandnowyou’resittingnexttome,aliveandhuman.

“I’mgoingtoholdontothis.”Sheclutchedhisarmwithbothhands.“Youareherewithme.Youare

human,andyouarealive.Forthemoment,atleast,wearesafe.I’mnotgoingtobendmyselfoutofshape
tryingtofigureouthowwegothere.Iwouldliketoknowwhy—whyyouandwhyme.”

Sheliftedashoulder.“Buthumanbeingsdon’tknoweverything.Perhapsthat’sbest.”

ChapterSixty-Five

Threeyearslater

HopeIsland,nearBoraBora

R

AVEN

S

AT

O

N

T

HE

C

OVERED

T

ERRACE

oftheirvilla,paintingavistaoftheisland.Thebreezeblewher

long,blackhairaroundherface,forcinghertotieitback.

From her current vantage point, she could see part of the white sandy beach. A figure appeared,

joggingbarefootacrossthepristinesand.

Thefigureseemedtosearchforherashejogged.Hewaved.

Shewavedback.

Herhusbandcontinuedhisjoganddisappearedfromview.

She turned to look inside the house, through the enormous space where the side walls had been

retracted.Beautifulpaintingshunginthelivingroomandbeyond,intheirbedroom.

The architecture and design of French Polynesia was at odds with the style of the Italian

Renaissance,butshedidn’tcare.Thiswastheirhome.Theirrefuge.Theirsanctuary.

The few original works of their collection they’d had shipped to the island were protected in a

closed room that had carefully controlled light, temperature, and humidity. Both Raven and William
enjoyedvisitingtheprivategalleythatincludedpaintingsbyMichelangeloandBotticelli,amongothers.

Beyond the villa, on a hill at the other end of the island, there stood a chapel where her husband

spenttimeinmeditationandprayer.Wherehesometimesspoketohisteacher.Whereshejoinedhimon
occasionasshenavigatedherownuneasyspiritualjourney.

Ravenspentherdayspaintingandsketching,muchofherworkinspiredbytheislandortheirtimein

Italy.Williamexploredthelimitsofhishumanbody,learningtosnorkelandsurf.Buttheireveningswere
always spent together. They’d tell one another stories next to the fire, or make love on the beach, or
simplyenjoyoneanother’scompany.

MostoftheirartcollectionwasstillhousedinGeneva,awaitingfinaldecisionsofwherethevarious

piecesshouldgo.RavenandWilliamhadsoldseveralworksprivatelyinsupportoftheirfundforabused
children.Thefactthattheycouldcontinuetheirsupportfromtheirislandsanctuarygavetheirlivesadded
meaning.

PerhapsadaywouldcomewhentheycouldtraveltoAmericaandshecouldseehersisteragain.For

now,theylivedasimplelifetogetherwhiletheirenemiesappearedtobechasingotherfoes.

RavenhadnoideawhyWilliamhadbeenspared.Shehadnoideawhythey’dbeengivenasecond

lifetogether.Butshelivedeverydaygratefulandfullofhope.

FIN

Epilogue

December2013

Cambridge,Massachusetts

“D

ARLING

,C

AN

Y

OU

G

ET

T

HE

D

OOR

?”Juliacalledtoherhusband.“Ihavemyhandsfull.”

Clare was covered in milk. Somehow, in her exhausted state, Julia hadn’t closed the baby bottle

securelyandmilkhadpouredalloverClare’sfaceandbodyasitsplashedtothefloor.

Clare currently sat in the kitchen sink while Julia attempted to separate her from her wet, milky

sleeper.

“Didyouordersomething?”Gabrielstuckhisheadintothekitchenonhiswaytothefrontdoor.

“No.ItcouldbeChristmaspresents.”

“Fromwhom?”

Thedoorbellrangagain.

“Idon’tknow,Gabriel.”Juliagrewimpatient.“Couldyoujustanswerthedoor?”

Sheheardherhusband’ssolidfootstepscrossingthehardwood.Sheheardtheopeningofthedoor,

thefaintmurmurofvoices,andthedoorclosing.

Gabrielenteredthekitchencarryingaverylargebox.

Juliaeyeditcuriously.“Whoisitfrom?”

“SomeshippingcompanyI’veneverheardof.”

“Imeantwho’sthesender?”

“Thenamewasleftoffthelabel.”

Gabrielretrievedaknifeandbeganopeningthebox.

HepawedthroughagreatpileofStyrofoampackingmaterialinordertouncoveranotherbox.

Hecursed.

“Language,”Juliawhispered,anglingherheadtowardClare.

“Dada.” Clare giggled and bounced on her backside, cheerfully half-naked and still sitting in the

largekitchensink.

Gabrielliftedthesecond,smallerboxandplaceditonthekitchentable.

Heopeneditandsiftedthroughthecontents.

Thenhetookaverylargestepback.

“Whatisit?”Juliawasalarmedbyhissuddenmovement.

Theireyesmet.

Gabrielreachedintotheboxandpulledoutaprotectivesleeve.Then,verycarefully,heopenedthe

protectivesleeveanddrewoutanetching.

Juliadroppedtheclothshe’dbeenholding.“Holycrap.”

Claremumbledsomethingthatsoundedsuspiciouslylikethewordshermotherhadjustuttered.

“There are a lot of them.” Gabriel appeared bewildered. He pulled out more of the sleeves and

beganarrangingthemcarefullyonthetable.

“Aretheyours?”Julia’seyesgrewwide.

Gabrielbegancheckingthesleeves.HefoundtheillustrationofDanteandBeatriceinthesphereof

Mercuryandflippeditover.

There,onthebackoftheillustration,wasafaintpencilmark.HeshowedittoJulia.“Thisone,at

least,isours.Irememberthemark.”

Juliacoveredhermouth.“Theymusthavefoundthem.Interpolmusthavefoundthem.”

Gabrielplacedtheillustrationbackinitsprotectivesleeve.“Idon’tthinkso.Interpolwouldhave

contactedus.Wewouldhaveknowntheywerecoming.”

“Thenwho?”

He checked the sender’s address label on the largest box. It showed an origin of Geneva,

Switzerland,butnoname.

Hescratchedathischin.

Julia’seyesmetherhusband’s.“Coulditbe…”

Gabriel placed his arm around her shoulder, drawing her into his side. “I don’t know. I think it

doesn’tmatterwhothey’refrom.DanteandBeatricearefinallyhome.”

ListofTermsandProperNames

(NB:ThisListContainsSpoilers)

Alicia—William’sfiancéefromthethirteenthcentury.

Ambrogio—WilliamYork’sservant.

Aoibhe—Pronounced“A-vuh.”AnIrishmemberoftheConsilium.

IspettoreBatelli—PoliceinspectorinFlorence.

Borek—FlorentinevampyreandcommanderintheFlorentinearmy.

Cato—LieutenantoftheRoman.

TheConsilium—TherulingcounciloftheprincipalityofFlorence.ThePrinceisanexofficiomember.

TheCuria—Enemyofthesupernaturalbeings.

Gabriel Emerson—The professor is a Dante specialist who teaches at Boston University. He is the
owner of a famed set of Botticelli illustrations of Dante’s Divine Comedy, which he lent to the Uffizi
Galleryin2011.HisstoryistoldintheGabriel’sInfernotrilogy:Gabriel’sInferno,Gabriel’s Rapture,
andGabriel’sRedemption.

JuliaEmerson—DoctoralstudentatHarvardUniversity.SheismarriedtoGabrielandtheco-ownerof
theBotticelliillustrations.

Feeders—Derogatory term for human beings who offer themselves up as a food source to supernatural
beings.

Ferals—Supernaturalbeingswholiveandhuntalone.Theydisplaybrutal,animalisticbehavior.

Gaius—VampyreCaptainoftheRomanarmy.

Gregor—PersonalassistanttothePrinceandheadofsecurityfortheprincipalityofFlorence.

Human intelligence network—Human beings who are contracted to provide information to the
supernaturalbeings.Theyalsoprovidesecurityandperformspecifictasks.

Hunters—Humanswhohuntandkillsupernaturalbeingsforcommercialpurposes.

Ibarra—ABasqueformermemberoftheConsilium.

Father Kavanaugh—Former director of Covenant House in Orlando, Florida, and friend of Raven
Wood.

Lorenzo—AmemberoftheMedicifamilyandsecondincommandintheprincipalityofFlorence.Alsoa
memberoftheConsilium.

Lucia—Ambrogio’swifeandservanttoWilliamYork.

DanMacready—Cara’sboyfriend.

Niccolò Machiavelli—Famous Florentine and member of the Consilium. Head of intelligence for the
principalityofFlorence.

HenriMarchand—DirectoroftheTriviumBankinGeneva.

Maximilian—APrussianmemberoftheConsilium.

TheMedici—FamousrulingfamilyofFlorenceduringtheRenaissance.

GinaMolinari—FriendofRavenWood,employedinthearchivesoftheUffiziGallery.

Oldones—Aspecialclassofsupernaturalbeingswho,byvirtueofhavingattainedsevenhundredyears
intheirsupernaturalstate,enjoytremendouspowerandspecialabilities.

ThePrince—RuleroftheprincipalityofFlorence,theunderworldsocietyofsupernaturalbeings.

Recruits—Newsupernaturalbeings,formerlyhuman.

TheRoman—RuleroftheprincipalityofRomeandalsotheheadofthekingdomofItaly,whichincludes
alltheItalianprincipalities.

AgentSavola—InterpolagentassignedtoFlorence.

Simonetta—ThePrincessofUmbria.

Stefan—AsupernaturalphysicianofFrenchCanadianorigin.

Tarquin—ThecurrentrulerofVenice,undertheauthorityofthePrinceofFlorence.

Professor Urbano—Director of the restoration project working on the Birth of Venus. Raven Wood’s
supervisor.

GeneralVale—CommandingofficeroftheCuriaarmy.

TheVenetians—SupernaturalbeingslivingintheprincipalityofVenice.

DottorVitali—DirectoroftheUffiziGallery.HeappearsintheGabriel’sInfernotrilogy.

PatrickWong—CanadiancitizenandfriendofRavenWood.WorksinthearchivesattheUffiziGallery.

Carolyn(Cara)Wood—Raven’syoungersister.CarolynisarealestateagentinMiami,Florida.

RavenWood—AmericancitizenandpostdoctoralrestorationworkerattheUffiziGallery.

William York—A wealthy Florentine and patron of the Uffizi Gallery. He appears briefly in Gabriel’s
Redemption.

Younglings—Supernaturalbeingswhohaveyettoattainonehundredyearsintheirsupernaturalstate.

Acknowledgments

IoweadebttothecitiesofFlorence,Rome,andPrague,theircitizens,andtotheincomparableUffiziand
AccademiaGalleries,aswellasSt.VitusCathedral.Thankyouforyourhospitalityandinspiration.

IamgratefultoKris,whoreadanearlydraftandofferedvaluableconstructivecriticism.Iamalso

thankfultoCassie,Jennifer,andNinafortheirfeedbackandsupport.

I’vebeenverypleasedtoworkwithEverAfterandCassieHanjian,myagent.I’dliketothankKim

Scheflerforherguidanceandcounsel.

Mypublicist,NinaBocci,workstirelesslytopromotemywritingandtohelpmewithsocialmedia,

whichenablesmetokeepintouchwithreaders.I’mhonoredtobepartofherteam.

Heather Carrier of Heather Carrier Designs designed the book’s cover. She did a beautiful job. I

wouldalsoliketothankJessicaRoyerOckenforcopyeditingandCoreenMontagnaforformattingthe
novel.

IamgratefultoErika,DeborahHarkness,andLaurenfortheirkindwordsaboutTheRaven. Thank

you.Ialsowanttothankthemanybookbloggerswhohavetakenthetimetoreadandreviewmywork.

I want to thank the Muses, Argyle Empire, the readers from around the world who operate the

SRFans social media accounts, the Canal SRFansESP who create exceptional vlogs on YouTube, the
Trilogia Gabriel for inaugurating a Spanish language book club on my books, and the readers who
recorded the podcasts for The Gabriel Series and The Florentine Series. Thank you for your continued
support.

WhileIwaseditingthisbook,IlearnedofthepassingofJohnMichaelMorgan,whorecordedthe

audioversionsofmybooks.Mycondolencesgotohisfamilyandfriends.Hewillbemissed.

Finally, I would like to thank my readers and my family for continuing this journey with me. I’m

proudtobeyourVirgilduringthisforayintotheUnderworld.

SR

Ascension2016

AbouttheAuthor

IamaCanadianauthorwhoisinterestedinItalianhistoryandculture,aswellasthecityofFlorence.I
amalsotheNewYorkTimesbestsellingauthorofTheGabrielSeries.

I’minterestedinthewayliteraturecanhelpusexploreaspectsofthehumancondition—particularly

suffering, sex, love, faith, and redemption. My favourite stories are those in which a character takes a
journey,eitheraphysicaljourneytoanewandexcitingplace,orapersonaljourneyinwhichheorshe
learnssomethingabouthimself/herself.

I’malsointerestedinhowaestheticelementssuchasart,architecture,andmusiccanbeusedtotella

story or to illuminate the traits of a particular character. In my writing, I combine all of these elements
withthethemesofredemption,forgiveness,andthetransformativepowerofgoodness.

Itrytousemyplatformasanauthortoraiseawarenessaboutthefollowingcharities:NowILayMe

DowntoSleepFoundation,WorldVision,Alex’sLemonadeStand,andCovenantHouse.