Industrial Magic
Page 95

We need some information, Cassandra began. Last night, we werent entirely forthright with you for security reasons. But, after we spoke to you, it was obvious that I may have underestimated yourstature in the vampire world.
It happens, John said.
Yes, well, heres the situation. A vampire has been killing Cabal childrenthe children of Cabal employees.
Since when? John said, then coughed. I mean, I heard about that, of course.
Of course. As of yet, the Cabals dont realize that theyre hunting for a vampire. The interracial council would like to keep it that way, to catch the perpetrator quietly. We know the Cabals dont like vampires. We dont need to give them an excuse to come after us.
Let them, Brigid said, stepping forward. They want a war, well give them a
John hushed her with a wave. As he watched us, I realized that, as Id hoped, Cassandra had indeed underestimated him. Playing the fool didnt mean he was one.
If you catch him, what are you going to do with him? John asked. Im not going to help you find a vampire so you can kill him. I could argue hes doing us a favor.
Not if the Cabals find out.
John paused, then nodded. So I assume you want to know who has a beef with the Cabals.
Shouldnt she already know? Brigid said, slanting a look at Cassandra. Thats her job, as our representative isnt it? To know whos been naughty and whos been nice?
Cassandra met Brigids sneer with a solemn nod. Yes, it is, and if I have been remiss in performing my duties, I apologize. As of now, expect me to do so, and if I do not, you may petition the council to have me removed. As well, I may consider seeking a codelegate.
Wed appreciate that, Cassandra, John said. Weve all talked about this. Wed like a second delegate on the council. Id be willing, of course.
Iappreciate the offer, Cassandra said. Right now, though, we need to resolve the most pressing concern. If you know anyone who has had a problem with the Cabals
First, I want your word that whoever is responsible wont be executed.
I cant do that. Council law
Fuck council law.
Cassandra glanced at me. I shook my head. This we couldnt do. We both knew that the killer had to go to the Cabals. To do otherwise would be to risk having them turn on both the vampires and the council. All we could do now was negotiate with them to minimize the fallout.
We cant promise absolution, Cassandra said. But well make surehes treated fairly
No deal.
Perhaps you fail to understand the importance of this. The more children this vampire kills, the uglier this will get. We need to stop him
Then stop him, Brigid said. You shouldnt need us. And I dont think you do. I think this is all a little act for your council buddies, so they dont find out the truth.
Cassandras eyes narrowed. What truth?
That you knew exactly what was going on. You knew how bad things were. You want us to tell your little witch friend here so you can claim you didnt know a thing about it. Well, you cant possibly be that out of touch
Im afraid she is, said a voice behind us.
We turned to see Aaron step into the basement, followed by Lucas.
Cassandra doesnt know whats been going on, Aaron said. But I do.
Edward and Natasha
HELLO, AARON, BRIGID SAID, SLIDING UP TO HIM AND running a finger down his chest. Youre looking goodas always.
Aaron lifted her finger off his shirt and let it drop. Put some clothing on, Brigid.
She smiled up at him. Why? Tempted?
Yeah, to cover my eyes.
Brigid sniffed and swung to Lucas. So this is the Cabal crown prince, is it? She looked him up and down. Nothing contact lenses and a better wardrobe couldnt fix.
She took a step toward him.
No, thank you, Lucas murmured.
Brigid? John said. Please, get dressed.
Dont bother, Cassandra said. If Aaron has what we need, then well leave you two to your immortal slumber.
She headed for the door.
Hold on, John said. I may have details Aaron doesnt. My deal still stands.
Deal? Aaron said.
I nodded. He wants us to promise not to execute the killer or hand him over to the Cabals.
Ah, f**k, Hans, you know we cant do that. Theyll come after us, hunt us down.
Brigid laughed. You think were afraid of the Cabals? Were vampires. The gods of the supernatural world, impervious to harm
Yeah, until someone chops off our heads, then were worm food like everyone else. Hans, maybe youve got Brigid believing that vamp-superiority crap, but I know youre smarter than that.
We dont need this, Cassandra said. If you have a name
I do, but Hans may know more. I want to find this guy before he kills another Cabal kid.