Realms of Valor - James Lowder [33]
Despite himself, Jander flinched from the insult. “No more than I hate myself,” he whispered back softly, still speaking in his native tongue. She glanced up at him, and he could see emotions warring on her delicate, lovely face. The priest was performing now. His voice was astoundingly steady, and his fingers caressed the strings of his instrument with assurance despite the fact that Death was a yard away, staring him in the face. Cassiar was pleased and made no move to interrupt the song. “That bard's a priest,” Jander whispered to Rhynn. “Then why didn't he-” “He's not a fool. He's biding his time.” “Are you going to kill him?” Jander's look was angry now. “I am not what you think me to be, Rhynn the Fair. Wait until all the facts are in before you pass judgment upon me!” He paused, aware that his voice had risen slightly, and brought it back to a soft murmur. “I had not wanted you to be here, but perhaps it is best this way. I have an idea that could save at least some of the villagers.” “Why should I trust you?” Why, indeed? He released his hold on her. “Go for your weapon if you wish. Or else trust me.” He half expected her to draw her sword. One hand moved toward the weapon, but at the last instant Rhynn clenched her fingers into a fist. Then, with a deliberate effort, she brought her hand down to her side. Jander permitted himself a slight smile. The bard finished his song, and Cassiar applauded. When the rest of the room stayed silent, he craned his neck to look back at the silent crowd. Merciless brown eyes took in the scene: Pogg and Trevys huddled behind the bar; four corpses sprawled on the floor; the half-elf clutching her mangled hand and looking paler by the moment; the sated, smug vampiresses; the overturned tables; the slack-jawed men and women at the seven remaining tables, staring in terror. “Come now,” Cassiar chided. “Wasn't he wonderful? Don't you think you should clap for him?” The vampire threw back his head and laughed as the terrified crowd burst into frenzied applause. The bard bowed politely and returned to his seat. Jander watched, knowing the next step of this grisly dance. Cassiar rose and began to peruse the crowd until he found a woman who struck his fancy. Jander's heart sank as he saw that it was Aluise. “Well, aren't you the pretty thing,” Cassiar said. He reached down and pulled her to her feet. “I like your eyes,” he stated, heading toward the stairs. Aluise began to whimper, then suddenly shrieked and tried to pull free. The vampire lord paused halfway up the stairs, turned, and leveled his gaze at her. Aluise stared back. Her sobs turned to sniffles, then ceased. Cassiar glanced around, his eyes finding Theorn. He pointed a finger at the Rider. “You've fed and won't be hungry for a while. You can guard the door.” He grimaced a bit at the Rider's blood-matted beard. "You are a messy eater, aren't you? Well, put your helm on and no one'll notice. You're one of the militia.
Remember that, and you'll be able to allay suspicions if anyone should come.“ He caught and held the