Chapter Twenty-nine
“What is the meaning of this? Why have we been convened?” Aoibhe strode into the council chambers below the Palazzo Riccardi. She was in a foul mood.
Pierre shrugged. “No one knows. The order came from the Prince himself, and he would not accept delays.”
“But for what purpose?” She turned her attention to Lorenzo, who shook his head.
“Something came in from the human intelligence network but the report went straight to the Prince. I haven’t seen it.”
Aoibhe frowned. “That’s irregular. You’re second in command.”
Lorenzo opened his mouth to comment, but closed it almost immediately.
“Where’s Max?” She scanned the large room.
“He’s been summoned.” Lorenzo took his place at the front of the hall, holding the staff of the city out to his side.
Aoibhe approached Niccolò, who was already seated. “Are there problems with the patrols?”
“Not at all. Everything is proceeding according to plan.” Niccolò’s tone was not friendly.
Aoibhe clapped slowly. “Eager to keep your head, Nick?”
“It’s attached to my body.”
“For now,” she muttered.
“Perché la fortuna è donna, et è necessario, volendola tenere sotto, batterla et urtarla,” Niccolò stated, his dark eyes taunting her.
She scowled and took a threatening step forward. “Five hundred years later and you’re still spouting that ridiculous drivel? I’ll show you what it is to be beaten, you ridiculous cretin.”
“Aoibhe.” Lorenzo spoke sharply. “Stop antagonizing Sir Machiavelli.” She opened her mouth to protest, but at that moment Max entered the room, followed by Gregor.
Aoibhe reluctantly took her seat, but not before hurling a few insults in Niccolò’s direction.
“This meeting of the Consilium will come to order.” Lorenzo tapped his staff on the floor.
The Consilium members stood as the Prince entered the room.
As soon as they saw the young woman beside him, a series of growls left their throats. All six vampyres inhaled her heady scent, turning with hunger in her direction.