Page 72 of Deceived By a Warrior

“Once?” Artem questioned.

“It would seem she escaped my clutches as well. Her and that dark haired vampire.”The sinister smile that revealed itself caused Artem’s heart to beat much quicker than he remembered it ever beating before.

Walking, powerful, seductive woman.

“Then our plans align.” If Artem had a woman like this on his side, what need did he have for a psychic? None. “The world would be a better place with one less pestilent soothsayer walking around. I can help you.”

“I know.” she said as she casually walked past Gedeon and up the stairs that led to Artem’s throne. He was so impressed with her that when she stood in front of him, much nearer to his throne than anyone had stood before, he didn’t command that she be sent to her death.

Curiosity over the mystery woman consuming him, he asked, “And who are you?”

“Hella, sorceress of fire, air, and water.”

“Hmm, three elements? May I ask who controls earth?”

“That power has yet to be seen. Though I can assure you, once it has it will be mine.” She was claiming she’d kill whoever controlled that power, considering a sorceress’ power could only be passed on at their death, and it could only be passed on to their murderess.

“Your assurance in the matter is quite attractive.” He wasn’t going to lie. He met her minutes ago and he already believed she was one of the most incredible beings life brought his way.

“I only speak truths.”

Gods, she was magnificent.

“I’m assuming you intend to aid me in my search for Eva Maas?”

She nodded. “I plan to do much more than help. I plan to lead that search.” If what she said was true, that would lift a lot of the burden off his shoulders.

“Then you’d have to lead not only the search to find her, but the man she runs with as well.”

“The dark haired vampire?” Her face twisted in annoyance. Beautiful, sexy, annoyance. I hate him too, Artem thought.

“Yes, that one.”

“I’d be delighted.”

She truly was a dream come true.

“Kill them both.”

Her ruby lips curled into a wicked grin. “Consider it as good as done, just show me the way. Iamhoping you have a way to find her?”

Artem definitely did. Looking beyond Hella and to Gedeon, Artem told the cringing vampire, “It seems I’ve found you a partner.”

With the two of them together, Eva was as good as dead.

Chapter Forty-One

Eva Maas

“Don’t worry, you’ll be safe here,” Kelly assured Eva, who was nervously looking out an extremely large window situated in an outdated yet cozy living room. She sat on an aged couch, its green color reminding Eva of vomit.

Sure, the room was cozy. That didn’t mean Eva had to like it.

“Hmm?” Eva’s eyes traced the tree line, searching for enemies lurking in the surrounding forest. To say she was paranoid was an understatement.

“I said you’ll be safe here.” Kelly gave Eva a soft pat on the back.

Eva nodded. The idea of being safe was becoming foreign to her. The last week or so had been filled with threats to her life, and kidnappings. Hell, even Darius kidnapped her. Technically.

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