Page 98 of Blood Match

“I’m guessing Lucien thinks it’s about time for a change.” My tone is grim. “We have to nip it in the bud.”

“Damn straight,” interjects Marcus.

I pause, carefully considering my next words. “There’s also the matter of protecting certain witches who may be vulnerable to Lucien’s plots. We can’t allow him to exploit them for his gain.”

Selene tilts her head, her eyes sharp. “Certain witches? Anyone, in particular, we should know about?”

I keep my expression neutral, not wanting to reveal too much about Rowan. “Let’s just say I have reason to believe some witches are of particular interest to Lucien. Their safety is crucial.”

Crucial to my survival. Among other things.

Selene’s fingers tap thoughtfully on the arm of her chair. “It’s an intriguing proposition. But I need more details. What exactly would this alliance entail? And how do we ensure our own safety in the process?”

I settle against my seat, my hands clasped together as I elaborate on our potential alliance. “Each of us has unique resources that, when combined, create a powerful force. Whether it’s financial support, access to rare materials, or simply manpower, we stand a much better chance together.”

Selene’s eyes narrow thoughtfully. “And how do you propose we coordinate these resources without drawing attention?”

“We’ll need to be discreet,” I admit. “But that’s where your diplomatic skills come in, Selene. You have a knack for maneuvering in the shadows.”

Elias nods slowly, but I can see the concern in his eyes. “What about the medical side of things? If Lucien is indeed harvesting witch blood, we may need to deal with the aftermath.”

I turn to him, grateful for his insight. “Exactly. Your expertise will be crucial, Elias. Not just for treating potential victims, but also for developing countermeasures against whatever Lucien might be cooking up in those labs of his.”

“Synthetic blood,” Elias muses. “I wondered about that when he raised it. I hadn’t heard anything about him dabbling in that field.”

“Wouldn’t surprise me if he said he was manufacturing Synth when what he’s planning to peddle is the real deal.” Marcus’s lip curls in disgust.

“There’s something else…” Elias pauses as if considering what to say next. “The Umbran blood consumption patterns don’t make sense.”

I look at him, my interest piqued. “What do you mean, Elias? What kind of patterns?”

He takes a deep breath before speaking. “I’ve been tracking blood consumption rates across the clans. It’s part of my ongoing research into the Bloodbane. Lucien’s clan…their numbers don’t add up.”

“How so?” I press, feeling a surge of anticipation. This could be the evidence we need.

“Well,” Elias continues, “their consumption rates are far lower than they should be, given their reported numbers.”

“What does that mean?” Marcus frowns.

“On the surface, not much,” Elias adds, leaning in closer. “The official records show normal consumption rates. It’s only when you dig deeper that you see the discrepancy. They’re not consuming human Synth the way they used to.”

“So? Maybe they’re just feeding from blood groupies,” says Selene. “God knows that bastard’s collected enough of them.”

“I don’t think so.” Elias shakes his head. He’s still not telling us everything.

“Spit it out, man.” Marcus is growing impatient.

“I think Lucien’s not being transparent with how many of his clan members have the Bloodbane,” Elias finally says.

Marcus and I share a look. Marlowe isn’t the only one who’s not being forthcoming on that front.

Selene’s eyes narrow. “How did you get access to that kind of information?”

Elias gives a small, wry smile. “I have my ways. Let’s just say I’ve cultivated some useful contacts over time.”

I nod, impressed. “This is exactly the kind of intel we need. Elias, can you compile a detailed report on these findings?”

“Already working on it,” he replies. “But we need to be careful. If Lucien catches wind of this…”

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