He entered the tavern silently, the fall of his feet not making a sound. The patrons already seated at various tables didn't bother to lift their heads to welcome the new comer with eyes of curiosity. You had your drink, talk to those in your company about trivial things, and went on your way—that is how it has always been in this particular establishment.

He sat at the bar, his back to the darkest corner of the tavern, but his front facing the door—the only way in or out. He dismissed the barkeep when he approached to take the demon's order. His fingertips toyed with the handle of the weapon tucked into his waistband, his blood crying out for severed heads and rivers of red.

He contained his desires, but barely. Fortunately, not a moment too soon, the door to the tavern swung open once more and revealed a veiled figure. He watched as the anonymous figure approached the bar, choosing the seat directly beside him. At first, neither stranger spoke.

Then, a raspy voice crept from beneath the the veil. "You have information, I presume."

He nodded once. "The rumors are indeed true, my lord. He has taken a mate—a human mate."

A dark chuckle echoed from the stranger. "This shall be most interesting. How fairs the Lord of the Western Lands?"

"He follows her like a pup," he said, snarling in disgust. "I hadn't but a moment alone with her before he comes to her aid. She's his weakness, this is no doubt of that."

"You must be certain," the stranger rasped, his voice eager and sharp. "We cannot allow this opportunity to slip through our fingers, you understand."

"I will not fail you, my lord."

Another bone-chilling chuckle echoed between the pair. "See that you don't," the stranger pulled a fist from his cloak and revealed a small fortune in his palm—at least a dozen gold coins, worth more than many would see in a lifetime, "and you will be greatly reward, Dragon."

The demon bowed to the stranger. "Yes, my lord. I will see to the preparations."

The stranger dropped the fortune into Dragon's waiting open hand. "Inform me when the deed is done."

"Yes, my lord."

The stranger stood to leave, but paused before walking away. "And, Dragon . . ."

"Yes, my lord?"

"Save the human girl for me. I shall have a taste of her before reunited her with her mate in Yomi."

Dragon grinned dangerously. "Yes . . . my lord."