Ambros could hear the whispers and gossip about Lucian's return as they passed through the hall. Jules blocked it all out, walking toward the coven meeting without a hint of concern.
"They're all talking about it," Ambros murmured, leaning down toward her.
"I know," Jules replied sharply.
When they reached the meeting chamber, Ambros took a seat with the other members toward the back. Jules—now the Vicar—pulled the hood of her robe over her head and moved to the front of the room. Lucian entered shortly after her, the members rising as he walked down the aisle. Jules caught the flicker of his crystal eyes beneath his hood.
She swallowed and kept her gaze lowered. Nerves coiled in her chest. She couldn't afford to look weak in front of Lucian—not now. And she still had to deliver the news of Silas's impending return.
"Silas Marino is plotting against us," Jules announced, pacing before the assembly.
Fear rippled across the members' faces.
"We need to be prepared for his arrival. I'll lead a territory search tonight, and we'll sweep our parameters every evening."
A hand rose.
"What do we do if we spot him?"
Lucian's voice cut through the chamber, cold and decisive.
"Signal me. I want him alive."
Jules turned toward him, startled. She felt the shift ripple through the room and shot him a sharp look.
"Will you be on the front lines, Vicar?" another voice asked.
Jules drew in a breath.
"Ye—"
"No," Lucian interrupted.
Confusion spread through the crowd.
"Yes, I will," Jules said firmly, her gaze locking with Lucian's.
When the meeting adjourned, Jules crossed to the cases and locked her robe away. She sensed Lucian lingering nearby.
"Why are you just standing there?" she asked flatly, keeping her eyes on the case.
"Do you really think you're ready to lead a search?" Lucian said, stepping into the candlelight.
"You've missed a lot," Jules replied, finally turning to him. "I'm not fragile. I'm your Vicar. It's time you start acting like it."
Lucian's eyes widened slightly, taken aback by her confidence.
"You've developed quite a tongue, Vicar," he said with a short huff as he hung his robe beside hers.
"So—Ambros?" he added, half-teasing.
Jules rolled her eyes and leaned back against the case, arms crossed.
"I'd love to hear about your drunken stupors, Lucian."
"So you are with him, then," Lucian said, his expression softening.
"I wouldn't have kissed you if I were," she replied.
"Watch yourself," Lucian warned quietly. "We're expected to attend an event together tonight."
Jules groaned, slapping a hand to her forehead.
"Ugh. I forgot about the dinner party."
"My car will pick you up at seven," Lucian said before disappearing into the shadows.
Jules sighed.
"He just has to be mysterious."