. It was waiting for us when we emerged from the ring?”“It tracked us there, probably with Keythivak,” said Zanyia.“If the Paragon was trackin... us that long, why did the Biomancer’s vermin waited so long to attack us?” Sven asked. “You saw what they did at Az. If it wasn’t for the armor we found there, they would have killed us.”“Most likely,” I agreed. “Perhaps it took time for the Paragon to gather those monsters.”“Why would the Paragon use Zizthithana at all?” asked Ava.“Zizthithana figured. Somewhat at a loss, Annette looked at him, then raised her head."Yes, Ken. I come to you, the High Priest, and ask to be allowed to serve Lea."That startled Ken. There really were no formal words to bring someone to the Circle. Well, up until this point, anyway. He suspected that Annette had just changed that. Well, then: 'once begun, best done' and all that."Genie, you have said that you want to join with us, to become a Priestess of the Circle. Is this still your wish?" Yes, Ken. I come to. We’d been chasing each other around for over two years now. We’d talked now and then, but never on an intimate level.“Thanks, Coach,” I said. “You’ve been a great support for my training and I haven’t been as appreciative as I should. But I can’t just talk about this right now. I need to go paint.”“You know what you need better than I do. Just know I’m here.”I wasn’t sure I wanted to open the door of the studio when got there. I hadn’t been in since we carried Kate out. I unlocked the door and. Tim was conflicted and quickly became uncertain. With every step he lost part of his hunger, and he became less interested in her blood. He felt empowered, capable, he felt strong. He opened his mouth, fangs extending to their full length, and he lowered his mouth to her neck. Stooping over her sleeping body Tim was struck by an idea. He was now a predator. It hadn't set in he realized, but he was a vampire. He hunted people now. He was the highest rung on the food chain."NO..." his conscious.