Page 161 of Crimson Oath
The wind vampire couldn’t fly. He couldn’t reach any weapons. And he could not escape the condemnation of his clan.
“The terrin of the Poshani have come to a unified agreement now that our sister has joined us,” Kezia told Oleg. “Vano’s execution will be public as a warning to any and all who think to betray their clan.”
“A public execution?” Oleg nodded. “A wise choice for both your clan and your guests.”
“Yes,” Tatyana said. “A statement must be made that betrayal of the clan or the clan’s guests is punishable by painful death.”
Oleg locked eyes with her. “How will he die?”
“He will burn.”
Oleg cocked his head. “Are you asking?—”
“Vano will face the sun,” Tatyana said, “chained to the ground until he burns to his death, and his ashes will remain visible until the kamvasa moves. Both humans and vampires must see that betrayal of the clan will not be tolerated.”
Radu added, “He will not return to his element. His ashes will be ground into the dirt where animals can tread on his remains.”
Oleg looked at his old friend. “It is a statement.”
“It is.” He held his hand out toward Vano. “You are welcome to question him about your brother if you would like. The Poshani value our alliance and trust that our relationship will remain strong in the future now that this cancer has been exposed.”
“Thank you, old friend.” How much did he want Radu and Kezia knowing about the weakness in his own empire? Oleg looked at Vano, and the man’s haughty expression told him that an interrogation was expected.
Oleg pulled up a small stool and sat in front of Vano. “We did business for many years. How much of that money did you steal from the clan?”
Vano blinked. He’d been expecting questions about Ivan. “Enough.”
“Oh, don’t be foolish,” Oleg said softly. “Is it ever enough?”
The prisoner said nothing.
“When you attacked my trucks, did you know they had vampire guards accompanying them?”
“Yes.”
“So you knew that the Poshani you’d ordered to hijack those trucks would more than likely die.”
The corner of Vano’s mouth turned up. “Yes.”
He heard Kezia and Radu reacting behind him, but he never let his eyes leave Vano. “What did you buy with the money Ivan paid you?”
Vano’s smile was broad. “He didn’t give me money.”
“Ah, forgive me. What did you do with the gold?”
Vano pursed his lips. “Hmmm. I think I will let your lover find it. Do you think the Poshani will love her as much when they discover she’s more loyal to you than them?”
Oleg chuckled. “If you think that Tatyana le Tala is more loyal to a man she allows in her bed than to the family she has chosen, you have no knowledge of her. Your ignorance is showing, Vano.”
“Ivan has plans for you, old one.”
“You think I’m old? Ivan’s older—he’s just not as powerful and he never was.” Oleg winked. “Don’t worry. I will discover Ivan’s tricks without your help.”
“So you don’t want to know who else in your clan is plotting against you?” Vano’s eyes were wide.
Oleg stretched out his legs. “Do you want to tell me?”
“Polina.”
