Page 68 of Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox
Hisoka chuckled. “We downplay those differences that humans might fear, and we showcase all manner of novelties and quirks in the interest of cultural exchange. The emphasis is always on what humanity can gain from our alliance—medical advances, environmental renewal, comparative histories, and an endlessly popular glut of cryptid documentaries.”
“Feed the fascination, not the fear.”
“Exactly.”
“But?”
“But if we betray this tentative trust, the backlash could mean war.”
“Belgium.”
Hisoka hissed softly. “The reaver rumor mill is frighteningly efficient. How much do you know?”
Michael pulled the very same report he’d shared with Argent. “This came by hand, for reavers’ eyes only, and the sigils are strong enough to makemyhead ache. It mentions a summit to allay fears after a rash of attacks in northern Europe. In three such cases, survivors were found to be pregnant. All evidence points to an Amaranthine perpetrator.”
“These were seemingly unrelated crimes scattered across multiple jurisdictions. But with the Emergence, investigators realized that many of the unsolved cases on file—the ones that defied any human explanation—might haveinhuman ones.” Hisoka rubbed at the side of his face. “Within a week of my installment, I had a contingent from every international law enforcement agency in my office.”
“What’s been done so far?”
“Full cooperation,” said Hisoka. “Reavers partnered by Kith have been placed in law offices around the world, and ambassadorial Amaranthine in positions at the national level. As for the incidents causing the current uproar, the Elderbough clan has been sniffing around.”
“Adoona-soh’s pack?” Michael’s eyebrows shot up. “There are none better.”
“Agreed. But even their noses cannot pick up trails as old as these.” Hisoka paused, then nodded to himself. “The files are in my pack. I’d appreciate your taking a look later.”
“If you think it will help.”
“I’m sure you will be able to shed light on matters. It’s another reason why I dropped by.”
The sudden intensity in Hisoka’s gaze didn’t match his casual tone. Michael stilled like a student caught out of bounds. “Sensei?”
“I’ve been abroad since September—Canada’s interior, Africa’s northern coast, portions of Catalonia, and the upper reaches of the British Isles. Everywhere we go, it is the same, and now that the Elderboughs know what they’re looking for, hunters are quicker to uncover additional sites.” Hisoka leaned forward. “One case in particular caught my attention. A team of university interns, amateur historians, and conspiracy enthusiasts came together under the leadership of a wealthy Englishman. Most laughed at Cedric Smythe’s expedition as a fool’s errand.”
Michael’s stomach plunged. “What was his goal?”
“He set out to prove the existence of dragons.”
“What happened?”
Hisoka sat back and sighed. “Perhaps he found one.”
THIRTY NINE
Brindled Mahogany
Michael barely tasted dinner, but he put on a brave face and played the genial host until the ladies retired with Sansa for the night. Reassured by his wife’s soft smile, Michael turned to Hisoka and Deece with a matching offer. Because hospitality toward the Amaranthine was every reaver’s duty and delight.
“Gentle cats, Stately House’s hearth is wide. We have our pick of rooms.” Michael spread his arms. “Let us set aside cares in favor of companionship. Trade with me, tales for tending.”
Deece edged toward the door, but Hisoka collared his nephew. “The words are traditional, and acceptance is optional.”
“Relax, Deece. Take tonight to get used to my scent, my voice, my heartbeat.” Michael offered his palms anew. “Trust is at the very foundation of tending. Report any reaver who says otherwise.”
“Thank you.” Deece fumbled for a moment, then simply repeated, “Thank you.”
On their way to one of the more spacious guestrooms, Hisoka asked, “Do you truly want a traditional tale? Or would you rather hear the rest of the one we began earlier? I can bring the file.”
“I don’t want to be rude.”
