"Because someone must ensure that the witches do not interfere. I am the only one with the power to challenge them." He shrugged. "And, of course, you have tampered with forces that will assist you in discovering where the woman is hiding."
There was a long pause before Amil folded his hands over his chest, a faint smile upon his lips.
"This is a dangerous thing you ask of me, master. The vampire is certain to be protecting the vessel. I risk more than just my life."
Rafael struggled to hide his disdain for the man who would barter for power rather than earn it. Unfortunately, he possessed no other servants willing to call upon powers forbidden by even the Prince.
Sacrifices must be made, he reluctantly acknowledged.
Even if it meant being in league with such a pathetic fool.
"So you wish to know your reward?" he demanded in cold tones.
"I am a practical man."
Sacrifices.
Rafael grimly maintained his composure. "I shall personally take charge of your training. You wish to earn your medallion before all others? I can give you that."
The smile widened. "And a share of the Prince's gratitude?"
Rafael briefly glanced down at his hands, imagining them around the greedy Amil's neck. Then he gave a small shake of his head.
The future was poised upon the night ahead. He had to do whatever was necessary to ensure the return of his master.
"So be it."
The younger man rose to his feet, satisfaction engraved upon the narrow features.
"Then we have a bargain."
Rafael also rose, his own countenance as hard and dark as the stone walls.
"Amil, do not fail me. You have already faced death. If I discover you were unable to complete this task I set for you, then death will be the least of your worries. Do you understand?"
The apprentice possessed the sense to pale at the threat. 'Yes."
Rafael waved an impatient hand. "Then go. You have much to do before the sun sets and the vampire is at his full strength."
Amil slipped from the room, and Rafael turned to pace toward the fire that burned in the center of the floor.
The Dark Prince would soon be returned to his place of glory.
And he would be leading the way.
"Soon, my lord," he whispered.
Chapter 6
It was some hours later when Abby stirred from her deep, thankfully dreamless sleep. Lifting her heavy lids, she was at first befuddled by the feel of satin sheets brushing her skin and the shadows that filled the vast room.
She was not the sort of girl who woke up in strange rooms. Certainly not those with satin sheets and an echo that could rival St. Paul's Cathedral.
Still, it was better than the lumpy mattress and foul stench that had greeted her last time she awoke, she wryly told herself. And with the added benefit of a pair of delicious male arms wrapped about her.
Not a bad way to awaken.
At least it wouldn't be if those rotten memories of demons, witches, and being invaded by a powerful spirit didn't come crashing back.