Page 40 of Blood Caged

“Those who choose to ignore these changes will find themselves removed from this operation. Permanently.” The implication hangs heavy in the air. In our world, “permanent” removal often means something far more final than a mere job termination.

“Are we clear?” I ask.

I watch as my words sink in. Slowly, I see nods of agreement from some team members, though uncertainty lingers on many faces.

Grayson steps forward, his expression thoughtful. “Sir, if I may?”

I nod, giving him the floor.

“I understand everyone’s concerns,” he begins, addressing the room. “We’ve been operating under a certain set of rules for a long time. Change is always daunting.” He pauses, looking at each person in turn. “But I know of Lord Daire’s reputation, and I trust his judgment. If he says this is the way forward, then I’m on board.”

His words seem to have an impact. I see a few more nods, some of the tension easing from shoulders.

“Thank you, Grayson,” I say, genuinely appreciating his support. “I know this isn’t easy. We’re dealing with powerful entities here, and the thought of loosening our control is frightening.” I lock eyes with Elena, who still looks particularly worried. “I get it. The fear of retaliation if we slip up, if they break free…it’s a valid concern.”

I take a deep breath, choosing my next words carefully. “But think about it. If you were in their shoes, treated the way we’ve been treating them, wouldn’t you want to unleash hell? By improving their conditions, we’re not just being humane – we’re potentially defusing a powder keg.”

I can see the realization dawning on some faces. Good. They’re starting to understand.

“Our security measures will adapt,” I continue. “We’ll be vigilant but not cruel. It’s a delicate balance, but I believe it’s one we can achieve.”

I take a deep breath, surveying the room. There’s still tension, but I can see a glimmer of understanding in some eyes. It’s time to put these changes into action.

“Alright, let’s get to work,” I announce, my voice firm and decisive. “Elena, I want you to oversee the improvements to the living quarters. Start with the basics – better bedding, proper sanitation, maybe even some books or simple entertainment. Make it livable, not just survivable.”

Elena nods. “I’ll draw up plans immediately, sir. We should be able to implement the changes within 48 hours.”

“Good,” I respond. “I’d like you to begin with the Blackwood quarters. She’s currently in the medical bay. See to it that things have changed by the time she returns.”

“Of course, sir.” Elena’s tone is brisk. Heath’s eyebrows rise just a little.

I disregard him, turning to Viktor. “Viktor, you’re in charge of adjusting our security protocols. We need to maintain control while allowing for more freedom of movement. I trust you can handle it.”

Viktor’s face is a mask of concentration. “Understood, Lord Daire. I’ll review our current measures and propose new strategies by tomorrow morning.”

I nod, appreciating his efficiency. “Perfect. Start by reviewing the external dampening fields. If they have access to the outdoors, we need to be sure they can’t draw upon their powers there.”

“Certainly. I’ll have those ready by the dawn switch over,” he says, referring to the time of day when the vampire forces within the facility hand over to the human contingent.

Finally, I turn to Dmitri. His eyes meet mine, a hint of challenge in them. I know that I would do well to remember that he is probably Lucien’s most loyal member of the team working here. It’s not the only reason I dislike him. There’s something…unpleasant about the man that I can’t put my finger on.

“Dmitri, you’ll be revising the blood extraction schedule. Every second day, as I said. And I want a full medical assessment before each extraction. If anyone shows signs of weakness or illness, they’re to be given time to recover. No exceptions.”

Dmitri’s jaw clenches, but he nods curtly. “As you wish, sir. I’ll have the new schedule ready by this evening.”

“Excellent.” I look around at the others. “Now, if anyone has any additional suggestions, I’d be happy to—”

“I think you’re making a mistake,” Heath interrupts me.

I raise an eyebrow. “Really?”

“You have no idea what you’re dealing with here, Daire.” His expression is insolent. “There is power in this place, the likes of which you cannot comprehend.”

“And you would know this because…many of these people were once associates of yours? Friends? People you grew up with?”

Elena draws in a sharp breath. Heath looks like his head might explode.

“I don’t have to explain myself to you,” he mutters.

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