Unconsciously, Shay glanced toward the last spot she had seen Viper. "Actually there seems to be any number of reasons," she muttered.
"Yes, I suppose there is," he murmured softly. "Your new master is an oh-so-hated vampire."
"So it would seem."
"A clan chief."
Shay's attention sharply returned to the gargoyle at her side. "How can you tell?"
"I can smell the mark of CuChuIainn upon him."
Shay licked her suddenly dry lips. She had never attended the gladiator games. Few demons were considered worthy to attend the most elite of competitions. And even fewer allowed to participate.
Those who walked out alive were feared and respected by all.
They were warriors worthy of the title master.
"He has gone through the Battle of Durotriges?"
"And lived to tell the tale. Quite impressive." Level regarded her with a knowing expression. "A wise demon would not wish to anger such a champion."
The very fact he was right only deepened Shay's frown. Even if she were a pure blood Shalott she could never hope to best a clan chief.
Somehow the knowledge annoyed the hell out of her.
"Thanks, Levet."
He blew her a kiss. "Anything to be of service for you, ma cherie."
She rolled her eyes. "Remind me why I bothered to rescue you."
The tiny, oddly lumped face became somber. "Because you cannot bear to see another hurt. Even if it means sacrificing yourself."
Shay shifted with a flare of discomfort. She wasn't a saint. Far from it.
The simple fact was that she had precious few friends. Demons considered her blood tainted and humans considered her some sort of freak. When she did find someone willing to accept her for whom and what she was, she would do a lot more than risk Evor's fury to keep them safe.
Uncertain how to break the uneasy silence, Shay was almost relieved when she felt the cold chill that proceeded Viper's silent return.
Of course, that didn't halt her treacherous heart from giving a lustful leap as the moonlight spilled over his silver hair and perfect profile.
Vamp beauty.
It was a damn pain in the ass.
Giving an unconscious shake of her head she cleared her ridiculous thoughts.
"Did you find Evor?"
His expression was oddly guarded. "Not precisely."
"What do you mean?"
"I think you should see this. Perhaps you can shed some light on what has happened."
Shay hesitated only a moment before following his tall form toward the auction house. She didn't doubt there was something horrible awaiting her. Something that might very well give her nightmares.
But even as she forced her feet forward she couldn't deny a ridiculous flare of warmth. Dammit, she was Viper's slave. His possession. But at every turn he made her feel as if she were something more. Something... worthy.