Page 44 of When Bones Whisper
With a tilt of his head, Alexander grimaced. “It would be foolish to fight them on their territory. Witches like the Avery family often buy land in powerful locations where they can congregate. Undoubtedly, their estate is built around theirdevoted practice area where something terrible has happened with lots of violent energy for them to siphon.”
“So, why haven’t they come here?”
Alexander pointed at the dark window. “Because we have a lot of defenses. Death hounds patrol the perimeter of the grounds, which is one reason Nathaniel was paranoid letting you out. They may obey him, but they can be unpredictable.”
“What are death hounds?”
“Dogs turned into vampires.”
“What? How is that even possible?”
He shrugged. “They were not created by us, but another vampire that has since been exiled. He takes care of them here. They are loyal to him.”
“That is so sad. The poor creatures.”
“They are well taken care of,” he assured.
“What will happen to them on the night of the ball?”
“Nathaniel will ensure they don’t attack anyone who comes through these gates. It’ll be the witches only chance to enter Sallow Manor without being torn apart by the creatures.”
“Is that your only defense?”
“No. We have some protections in place from other witches, like Katherine, but the hounds are our best protection. Speaking of, let’s go find her. I believe she is in the chapel.”
“You have a chapel?”
He laughed. “Indeed.”
“It’s just from what you said when we met, you think so little of religion.”
“You are correct, but we are not the only inhabitants of the manor. A few members of the staff visit the chapel. Nathaniel allows them their refuge with their God.”
“He lets his staff practice their own religion without consequence?”
“Yes.”
“That is surprising. It’s just that it’s a kindness I’ve not seen afforded in any other noble house. I must ask,” she said tentatively, “How do you know Nathaniel? I mean, how did you meet?”
“He saved my life,” he said without breaking stride.
“How?”
“By turning me.”
Well, that much was obvious, but she got the sense not to keep pushing the subject.
By the time they arrived in the west wing of the manor, her knees were clicking, and ankles were ready to give way. “I’m sorry,” she said, leaning over and placing her hands on her thighs.
“Does it hurt to walk?” he asked.
With her shoulders tense, she slowly lifted her gaze to meet his. “Sometimes, yes. Well, most of the time, actually. I don’t know what it is, but several years ago I started getting tightness and pain in my body, and it’s just gotten worse with time.”
“You should have said. I can carry you if the long corridors are too trying.”
“There is no need. I just need a moment before we continue.”
“We are already here.”
