Death in the Shadows - 19. Chapter 19: Baltimore Business

Watching Dirk swat at the frolicking Ingle, Dave snorted. “Can you believe this?”

“Right?” Caleb remarked. “Little B might need to tell the Seven to chill out around here. This town could use some gods-be-damned peace and quiet for once.”

Grabbing another bottle from the cooler, he tossed one to the lion before getting his own. “Hell, we might get it when Vincent leaves for Maryland tomorrow. I already told Mace I’m on vacation this week from work, and I expect zero phone calls.”

“Oh, yeah? Grabbin’ some alone time with yours?”

Taking a swig from his beer, he grinned. “A little. Beansies lost a few people, so Stace has been working doubles, but we have three days off together… back to back to back.”

Caleb leaned from the lawn chair. “You know, Lowe keeps asking about his friend Day.”

“Nope! Love the squirt, but not even on your death-bed.”

“How ‘bout Tasha’s?”

Dave gawked at the delta. “That’s low, man.”

Shaking his head, Caleb pointed at his son running around Mason. “No, he’s right there.”

He hated it, but respect was deserved. “Good dad-joke.”

The two clinked their bottles and sipped. They sat in silence for a bit as stragglers came from the woods. Heather walked next to Morrine’s tiger, both with blood smears across their lips. Dave shivered. Didn’t think vamps went for animal blood. Huh… Learn something every day. It’s kind of refreshing to see Heather without her human skin. Pretty sure Stace would be freaking out though.

Speaking of… He pulled his phone out and texted her. You’re missing out.

She responded. Got work early, take a pic tho!

Thinking of a better option, he started a video call. Stacy picked up immediately, “I meant a text, doofus.”

Even with no make-up on, she’s sexy. “Yeah, but this will be more fun. Say hi to Caleb.” Dave scooted his chair to point the selfie-cam at the ailouros. “He tried conning me into babysitting on our days off together.”

Before Caleb could make a face, Stacy cackled. “Dream on! Maybe next week or something, but we have reservations…”

Dave glared at the lion. “And I’m not canceling. Mace pulled some strings to get us the sun room at Biacci’s.”

Caleb whistled. “I fold.”

The beta stood and stepped out into the yard. “Wanna say hi to the new couple in town?”

“Wai-wait, what are you talking about?”

Rotating the cameras, he showed her Dirk and Ingle playing. The bear was huffing as the auburn wolf managed to squeeze under Dirk’s belly. “Literally, the most unlikely pairing in Owensville history.”

Stacy was blinking, but she seemed uninterested. “I need names.”

“Dirk’s the bear… And remember Officer Ingle from the Mesker Par—”

“Shut,” she interrupted, “the fuck up. The detectives? I thought they were straight."

"They woke up one morning, went to work, and found out. They're getting used to everything. Vin and Mace picked up jobs as life coaches."

"That's hilarious, but I gotta go, stud. I get off at noon tomorrow. You want to grab some lunch?"

Dave smiled. "Perfect way to start the staycation. Text you tomorrow. Love you."

"Love you, too."

Two beeps, and Stacy was gone. She returned in the form of his homescreen before he put the phone away. The lycan sighed before taking another swig.

Caleb snorted. "She's the one, isn't she?"

"Yep." There was no hesitation, second guessing, or debate. Stacy was his mate. Both of his minds knew it. "Mace has everything pre-approved. All I need is her."

"Congrats, man." Caleb rose and grabbed another couple of beers and handed one off. "She's nervous about the bite, isn't she?"

Dave nodded. “Yeah, but we have a game-plan, and I think I’m going to ask her tomorrow night.”

“Ask her what?”

“I’m going to turn her by pricking our fingers.”

The lion smiled. “Smart. She gets her wolf first. That’ll make things easier. Damn lover boy, you’re going to ask her like a marriage proposal?”

He hummed as he raised his beer. “Something like that.”

They sat, watching their friends and family participate in camaraderie. Tierney snapped his fingers, sending a spark into the fire pit into the yard. Prompted by Morrine, everyone gathered around. Grabbing their chairs, Caleb and Dave followed. “You think those two will take the plunge soon?”

The lycan snickered, “It still amazes me they haven’t yet. Why? You wondering if there’s going to be another little one running around?”

“Wouldn’t hurt. Pups are good for a pack.”

“Oh?”

Caleb squinted at him. “What?”

“Nothing,” he said, raising his hand defensively. Not my place to ask. “So, what’s going on with the love-birds here?”

Dirk lifted his head and huffed while Ingle stayed in place. Tierney popped open a can of beer and shook his head. “When one of the shapeshifter’s minds go feral then returns, the following shift acts like a Turning Day of sorts. It’s rougher since the body knows how to perform the transformation. Compared to one’s first turning, everything hurts the same, but it occurs at the same speed as an experienced shift.”

Vincent opened the cooler and conjured more ice. “Dirk’s stuck as a bear tonight?”

“Yep,” Tierney answered. “Mr. Ingle, you’re welcome to stay in my other guest room, if you’d prefer.”

The auburn wolf yipped, then repositioned himself further into Dirk’s side. From what Dave could tell, both were satisfied yet irked. That’s funny. They’re still trying to figure each other out. I’m not sure how I’d feel if my destined was a dude.

Still would want, but want human.

Yeah, she’s it for us.

As the night rolled on, Dave kept an eye on Heather. With her scales showing, it told him she was growing comfortable around their group of friends. “Has there been any major update from Remis or the VPN?”

The vampiress grinned. “I don’t know where you found that guy, but he’s awesome. He has Mr. Varis at his hip.”

“Varis?”

“The VPN rep,” Tierney responded. “The pack outnumbers the coven, so the VPN is playing second-fiddle to Remis’ demands. Together, they have enough evidence to arrest all major leaders, and be tried by the VPN, MPCP, and the EC.”

Heather’s jaw slackened. “Woah! The EC’s getting involved?”

“Their actions were a threat to the supernatural world. One starved vampire, and who knows what races could be exposed.”

“So… I can go home?”

The fire mage shook his head. “Not yet. Varis’ recommendations. Until your leaders are apprehended and interrogated, he and Remis won’t know where certain loyalties lie. You’re welcome to stay with me as long as you’d like.”

The vampiress’ face was calm, but Dave could tell Heather was frustrated. I would be too. Not allowed to go to her apartment. She’s stayed at Gwen and Stace’s apartment a few times, but it’s not the same. Maybe… His thought trailed off as he watched her stand. Her scales glowed from the orange flames. What is she doing?

Heather stood and faced Mason and Vincent. “Alpha Wilson, it’s been an honor being a guest in your lands. While I expect Mr. Varus and Alpha McCabe to bring normalcy to Mesker Park, I can’t ignore the generosity you and your pack members have given me. Between Dave and Tierney, I…” She paused, wiping the corner of her eye. “I’ve never had that. It’s always been drilled into me to keep my head down and human side up. The moment Tierney told me to show my real side, I felt your pack’s warmth.”

Heather. Dave saw the emotional turmoil. Her fingers were fidgeting, lips trembling, and knees pressed together. From their conversation on Stacy’s balcony, he caught a mere glimpse of her softer side.

“I’m not sure how lycans ask,” she said softly, “so I’ll do it the only way I know how.” Heather put a foot behind her, then bowed with one hand at her side while the other rested on her stomach. “Alpha Wilson, I seek permanent refuge within your pack. I solemnly vow to aid you and your people in any way I can, so long as I and my property are treated fairly by you and your council. On that single condition, I offer my undying loyalty.”

The beta raised his brows. He had never seen a vampiric oath in person. Holy shit! That was kind of awesome.

Mason and Vincent rose. They whispered to each other briefly before turning to Dave and Caleb. “Guys? Thoughts?”

Dave thumbed his cheek. This isn’t a typical sanctuary request, and I hope Mace recognizes that. This is a vampiric oath; a binding contract. Needing to confirm the details, he sat his bottle in the chair’s cup-holder and stood. Tapping his phone’s screen a few times, he began recording audio. “Your only condition is for Mason Wilson, Vincent Bolton, myself, and Caleb Gage to treat you and everything you own fairly?”

“Yes, Beta Triggs.”

“What is your intended process of appeal?” He caught Caleb’s confused glance. He doesn’t know much about vampires then. I’ll need to cover that with him...

Heather straightened and gave him her undivided attention. “I will approach the four of you, starting with the alpha, then beta, then delta, then mated alpha. Upon declaration of appeal, I will provide evidence, whether it be verbal or physical, and expect a productive plan of action. If I'm not satisfied with said plan, I will counter offer, and if an agreement can not be made, I will request a VPN negotiator. If I am unable to contact or reach one of the four of you within thirty days via call, text, e-mail, or mail, I will file a formal complaint with the VPN. This will break this oath by your breach.”

Dave nodded. “That’s acceptable. I request the oath-taker to provide their definition of fairly.”

“All that is declared mine, including my body and mind, are to be treated as an equal member to the Owensville County Pack. There is to be no exclusion of activity set by the council, and no additional costs regarding organization dues outside any the VPN institutes.”

“What are your expectations for assistance in blood, or blood synthetic procurement?”

Heather shook her head. “None. I shall enroll in the VPN’s coven-less program.”

“What are your expectations from the pack in terms of initial assistance?”

The question stunned her. “N-none. That’s not necessary.”

“I mark the first amendment to the negotiation. Upon approval for your request of refuge, Owensville County Pack will offer assistance in locating reasonable and affordable housing within five business days. Details pertaining the definitions of reasonable and affordable can be openly discussed outside of oath negotiation. Further more, Owensville County Pack will offer assistance in locating a lawfully paying occupation, should the oath-taker seek it.”

Heather’s eyes were wide. She wasn’t expecting that. “Is the first amendment acceptable to all parties?”

“Yes,” she whispered.

Dave turned to each member of the council, earning their approval. “I have no further observations, remarks, or inquiries. Caleb, Mason, Vincent?”

When no one spoke, Mason walked around the fire pit toward the vampiress. “My council and mate agree to your oath and its amendment. Do you?”

“Yes, Alpha Wilson.”

“Then our hands will bind this oath. Welcome to the Owensville County Pack, Heather Lodges.”

The moment they shook hands, everyone cheered and applauded. Dirk roared while Ingle howled and pranced around the bear. Heather struggled to remain standing, and Dave could not blame her. I smell her happiness. She’s officially home.

Caleb bumped shoulders with him and whispered, “What… the actual fuck was that?”

“Vampiric oath. It’s like if a sanctuary request came with a roided lawyer. That was an easy one to deal with.”

“Easy? That was insane!”

Dave snorted and asked, “Tierney? What’s the longest oath you’ve been a part of?”

The alpha groaned and combed his hair back. “Between all of the tables and recesses… The yearly agreement between NYSP and the VPN chapter typically ran a week long. Maybe two weeks?”

Spewing his beer, Caleb coughed. “What?”

Tierney shrugged. “We had to cover every bylaw, current and future. My last one in office had seven hundred and thirty-two amendments.”

Heather whistled in admiration. “Bol’s bones! I’d love to read that sometime if you got it lying around.”

“Just being curious,” asked Vincent, “why aren’t more vampires lawyers?”

“There are some,” said Heather, “but can you imagine if two of us faced off in a courtroom? It’s a freaking nightmare! I’d rather stick to retail. Nothing gets me off like informing a Karen about the rules and limits of a sale.”

Dave laughed. “My boss would love to have you as the front-end supervisor at Greenthumb.”

“Too late,” Tierney singsang. “Heather’s working at Nini’s.”

“And she’s killin it!” Morrine leaned and patted Heather’s armrest. “I’m already thinking about promoting her to assistant manager.”

“It’s been two days,” whined the vampiress.

“Yeah, and between you and Todd, I might be able to go back to five-day work-weeks soon.”

As Tierney put his two cents in, Dave tuned the incoming bickering out. Swallowing the remnants of his beer, he collected his empties. “Hate to drink and run, but I’m starting my vacation with a ten-hour nap. Mace, don’t need me.”

Waving to everyone, he threw his trash away and drove to his apartment. He longed for Stacy to share his bed, but it was only a matter of time. After showering, he positioned a pillow in front of him and imagined it was his mate. The coolness from the fabric was soothing, sending him off to a blissful sleep.

***

With his backpack filled to the brim, Vincent lugged it over his shoulder. Think that’s everything I need. Laptop, clothes, extra pair of shoes… He shrugged. If he needed something else, he could dash home and grab it. “I’m out, big guy.”

Mason had an impressive smile on his face, but Vincent knew it was an act. The man was being overprotective, almost to the point of being a nuisance over the past few days. Morning cuddles seemed to last longer than usual, and the big alpha never wanted to let go. Before Mason could pout, Vincent grabbed the large hand. “I should be home tonight, unless Jackson says I should stay in Baltimore with him.”

“I know. It’s just—”

“It's the first time we’ve been away from each other, and slept in different beds. I know, but I’ll be home, okay? If anything, you’re welcome to come with me.”

His mate shook his head. “Can’t. Gotta start the VPN registration process since we have a vampire in our pack. Dave sent the recording of Heather’s oath to be submitted.”

“That was something else. I’ve read about the legalities of a vampiric oath, but I never saw one take place.”

“Same. Dad said registering a single vampire shouldn’t be an issue. If the population grows larger than two households, then the VPN gets serious with you about dues and shit. Anyway, you should get going. Don’t want to hold up Jason.”

“Jackson,” Vincent corrected. “We’ll be staying at the Hotel Indigo downtown.”

“Remember to take pictures, and if you can find out when my next evaluation is, let me know.”

Rolling his eyes, he tip-toed and earned a kiss. “Hopefully I’ll see you tonight.”

Hoisting his bag, Vincent fell into the shadows and ran east. Traveling was now second nature to the shadow mage. He still followed major highways, as the signs were the most reliable way of knowing which way to go. He had the routes to New York and Yakob’s monastery memorized, but new destinations required a stop or two to verify his navigation via GPS. Arriving in Baltimore, he checked his pathing. Wow, just missed it by three blocks. He found a spot to reappear and decided to walk the rest of the way.

Taking note of the nearby restaurants and shops, Vincent was sure he wouldn’t be bored in his spare time. I love the architecture! Some of the buildings aren’t too tall, but they seem to be in great shape. Checking in at the hotel, he was informed he would be sharing the room. Interesting. Jackson might be happy to hear he can have the room to himself. Scoping the place out, Vincent fell in love with the wallpaper. It’s so literary themed! There’s a raven sitting on a stack of books. That's just freaking cute!

He spun as he heard the electronic lock on the door whir. A broad man with salt and pepper hair came in with a large suitcase. His beard was long; nearly to his breasts. “Oh, you’re already here.”

The lycan sniffed, but couldn’t discern what type of ursus he was. He’s a delta though. “Hi. I’m Vincent.”

“Rupert Jackson,” said the auditor, “but I usually go by RJ or Grumpy.”

As they shook hands, Vincent admired the man’s baritone voice. He seems really nice. “Councilman Marlo said you’re one of the more experienced auditors the EC has.”

The man smirked. “Eh. I’ve just been around the block a few times. Do you prefer to be called by first name or title?”

“First name please.”

“Thank the Seven. You excited to learn the ropes?”

Vincent nodded. “Can I ask a silly question?”

RJ plopped his luggage on one of the beds. “Shoot.”

“What kind of ursus are you? My wolf and I can’t figure it out.”

“Polar.”

Sitting on the other bed, Vincent grinned. “Is that a thing with the EC? They find all of the awesome shifters and turn them into auditors?”

The polar bear snickered as he laid claim to one of the dresser drawers. “A little braggadocious, don’t you think?”

“I…” Vincent pinched the bridge of his nose, realizing the error in his wording. “I didn’t mean it like that.”

“I get what you meant. Antonin told me Cyrus vouched for you. You also tipped us off on Steurm’s crap, didn’t you? That was good shit.” The bear laid down, sighing loudly. “What Antonin didn’t tell me was anything about you. Let me have it.”

“Well, that would make me braggadocious, wouldn’t it?”

RJ snorted. “Funny. I like that. Seriously, lay it on. I want to know everything about my partner. Afterwards, I’ll tell you all about me.”

Vincent unzipped his backpack and laid his laptop on the desk. “I’m from Elkridge; just a little drive from here. Found my way to Owensville, Kentucky where I was picked up by my destined, Mason. A month or two after that, I was turned.”

“Thought I smelled a bit of human on you. Not very often a human becomes an alpha. Continue.”

“I also have three affinities.”

The man rolled over to face him, propping his head up. “Really now? Which ones?”

“Frost, clairvoyance, and shadow.” When RJ only raised an eyebrow, Vincent took a guess. “You already know about me.”

The polar bear’s face was unwavering. “You’re quick to read people. Good! It’s the most important skill to perfect in this job.”

“You’re just like Cyrus.”

“Ha! That’s rich. Cy was a great auditor. Sometimes read people better than I could. He had a knack for catching liars. Only thing I don’t like about him is his charisma.”

Vincent laughed. “Why’s that?”

RJ rolled his eyes. “The minute he steps in a room, a minimum of four people just have to talk to him. I can’t blame him, but the same shit happens every time.” The bear glanced at his phone, then rose to sit on the edge. “Alright, you’ve known me for five minutes. Tell me what you’ve learned about my character.”

Realizing he was being tested, Vincent accepted the challenge. “I think your animal spirit should’ve been a dolphin.”

“Come again?”

“You’re slick. You don’t think it; you know you have a way with words. By all means, you’re not cocky. You always have an ulterior motive for everything you say. I admit, you buttered me up, but the second I figured out you knew all about me, I couldn’t take everything you’ve said to heart. What I can see is your happy nature. You really like to smile. The tiny wrinkles on the sides of your mouth tell me that.”

The ursus stared at him. The thin smile and blue eyes were disarming, but when RJ chuckled, Vincent snapped out of the trance. “Nice! Good to see I’m not training someone from complete scratch. You’re right on all accounts, except the dolphin part. I’m a bear. Many people think we’re cute and cuddly until we have a paw ready to come crashing down. May I offer my thoughts about you?”

Vincent nodded.

“Your natural naïveté will take you far. When I first saw you, I didn’t expect such an intelligent individual. That will cause many people to put faith in you, especially when you’re performing audits. When that happens, the criminals will merely think you’re just there to do the basic evaluation. They’ll let their guard down, and that’s when you strike.”

Hearing RJ’s analysis filled his wolf’s heart with pride, but darkened it at the same time. So we childish, but that good?

Sounds about right. People our height often get labeled as adults that never grew up. But the way he puts it, it can be our greatest strength.

I like. Makes fight easy.

RJ held a finger up. “But your naïveté is also your greatest weakness. It took you a minute to realize I wasn’t truthful about knowing your background. A minute is all it takes. A knife in the back, or to be completely brainwashed. Find a council member trustworthy, and they can pull the wool over your eyes. If I may, between you and your wolf, who has the better judgment of character?”

Recalling when they first met RJ, Vincent said, “My wolf. He figured you were lying first.”

“Make him responsible for judging the interviewee’s mood and behavior. The human side should focus on profiling physical features. This is a major benefit of being a shifter when auditing. You have two minds that can focus on different aspects. For me, it’s the other way around. My bear’s very gullible, so I find the lies while he assists. Since you’ll be shadowing for the next three audits with me, you won’t be handling the actual interviews. I want you to focus on what questions I ask, how they react to them, and how they respond. It’s important to watch.

“With that said, our interview with Alpha Reardon is in half an hour. You ready?”