Page 90 of Clash of Sin and Secret

Scottie screams—not in fear but fury—as Daeva’s claws rake across her arm. Squire magic erupts from our girl in waves, but she’s still fighting against an opponent with superior strength.

I have to have faith in her ability. It’s hard, but I’ve sparred with her. I know what she’s capable of. I also know that Zane is who we need to focus on protecting.

The blade I took off the fledgeling is put to good use. I find neck after neck, turning vampires into headless stumps. And yet, they keep coming.

For each one I take down, two more appear. Sweat and blood drip into my eyes as I fight my way to reach Zane and Scottie.

The sweet tang of Zane’s blood fills my nostrils, driving my beast into a frenzy.

There are too many.

We’re good—damn good—but we’re outnumbered.

Agostino and Daeva are toying with us, wearing us down while their turned cannon fodder keeps us separated.

We’re losing ground fast. Time for backup.

I press my fingers under my tongue and let out a piercing whistle that cuts through the chaos of battle. The sound barely fades when a bone-rattling shriek splits the night sky.

A massive black shape blots out the stars as Wylder swoops overhead in dragon form, his scales gleaming like polished obsidian.

“Is that a dragon?” one of the Fondatori spectators asks.

“I thought dragons were wiped out,” another says.

The Fondatori have exited the building and have gathered on the steps to take in the show, obviously entertained.

While all eyes are on the sky, Tucker bursts through the tree line with Link and half a dozen of our Vasari royal guard. Larkin comes in from the opposite side with a dozen of our clan members and takes up the rear.

The shedim demon’s citrine eyes glow with unholy light as he tears into the nearest turned vampire.

Tucker moves like a force of nature, his bear’s ferocity visible in every devastating blow. The man can fight.

Between Wylder’s strafing runs of dragon fire, the need for vengeance flowing through the veins of our clan, and Tucker’s and Larkin’s Otherworld strength, we push back the tide of turned vampires.

My attention snaps to Scottie as she faces off against Daeva. Despite her exhaustion, her squire magic crackles around her like lightning. Daeva’s mocking laugh echoes across the battlefield.

“Poor little girl, all alone without Daddy,” Daeva taunts, burgundy hair whipping in the wind. “Should I tell you how he begged before he died?”

The raw fury that crosses Scottie’s face makes even my blood run cold. She launches herself at Daeva, her movements a blur of lethal precision. Each strike channels years of training with both Bran and Jack.

Daeva’s superior strength means nothing against Scottie’s rage and skill. When the vampire bitch realizes that, shestumbles. Scottie doesn’t hesitate. Her blade flashes once, twice, and Daeva’s head hits the ground with a dull thud.

“He didn’t beg, you lying bitch,” Scottie spits, glaring at Daeva’s body. “I was there. I saw it all.”

Agostino lets out an anguished cry as Scottie takes Daeva’s head and throws it at him. His composure cracks, desperation flashing across his features. In a burst of vampire speed, he lunges for Zane.

Gone is the bravado of being the better man. He grabs the dagger from Zane’s grasp and kicks him to the ground. “I have it. Everyone, I have it!”

Agostino holds the blade aloft, his chest heaving. “I am the true heir to the Vasari legacy. With the Diamond Dagger, I claim my rightful place as king!”

Shock and confusion war in the eyes of the other Fondatori kings because Zane doesn’t counter. He stands, staring at his cousin, his expression unreadable.

My fingers tighten around my weapon, but Zane catches my eye and gives an imperceptible shake of his head. He’s bent over, one hand pressed to his bleeding shoulder, appearing defeated.

Agostino preens, running his finger along the blade’s edge, then he grips the blade and pulls the weapon free from his palm. “I claim that which is mine. I claim the Toronto Seat of Power!”

Zane straightens behind him, pulling another dagger from beneath his jacket—the real Diamond Dagger. “You’re a fool, Agostino. Did you think I wouldn’t protect the dagger, knowing what a cowardly snake you are?”

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