The Far Reach (Southern Vampire Mystery)

Chapter 28- Giving Way

Nautical Note: When you are coming to a crossroads at sea, perhaps rounding a marker in the channel, the boat in the downwind position has the right of way. If there are two boats on the same tack, and the marker is to port, the upwind boat needs to give way, allowing the other boat the courtesy of playing through. It's a hard courtesy to observe when you are in the heat of competition and observing it, despite the lack of any other eyes but your own, is proof of your character.

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Jane was walking through the projected income statement for the second time. Stan had dropped any pretense of being goofy or naïve and was drilling her with a laser-like efficiency that left no doubt of the Texas King's first-hand experience in difficult negotiations. For her part, the blond vampire was doing well. She explained how she had arrived at the figures and her methodology without becoming defensive once. Instead, she looked every inch the confident, slightly arrogant keeper of some great secret. It was an effective sales tool and Eric found himself feeling hopeful as he scanned the audience.

Thierry had likewise done well. The Gallic Sheriff had a flare for understatement and his ability to interweave even highly technical jargon with wry, understated humor had engaged those in the room. Eric had been able to see them lean forward, anxious to catch the next double entendre or quick turn of phrase. 'I hope we have not gone too far,' he suddenly worried. It was one thing to draw in potential investors; it was another to be seen more as entertainers than credible business partners.

While Eric acknowledged himself happiest when Sookie was within arm's length, he was grateful she had not been in attendance this evening. She would learn, he had no doubt, but for now she was likely to ask questions or send her curiosity in a way that would distract him. The stakes were incredibly high, so much was riding on Oklahoma and more so, Texas accepting and supporting the plan. He needed all his focus on appearing worry-free and confident.

The presentation wrapped up and there was a smattering of polite applause which was in and of itself a good sign. Eric stood, smiling smugly and nodding approval toward his Sheriffs. Their peers stepped forward, and with quick head bobs were engaging them in conversation. Most of it was personal, both Jane and Thierry were well-traveled and social which had recommended them for their jobs. Some of the conversations were more business. There was a vampire from Kansas who was asking about timelines and degradation of power over distance for wind. Jane was handling it well. All in all, he hoped that her poor judgement in furthering Niall's agenda would be a one-time lapse. He would hate to have her meet an unfortunate accident. As he watched her animated face he reminded himself to check and see if her Maker was still among them. If she was to be made finally dead there would doubtless be retribution owed. She would be considered an asset to any vampire.

"They did exceptionally well, Eric. You have every reason to be proud of your retinue," Sandy stood behind him, her eyes watching Jane. "I have heard of Thierry, and Thomas, but Jane is new to me. Where did you find her?"

"She came through Phoebe Golden's Court," Eric crossed his arms, considering again.

"Does she have a New York connection too?" Sandy asked, her voice sounding too friendly and Eric realized it was not a simple question. He turned to her, allowing his eyes to ask the real question.

"Not that I'm aware of, although I suppose it wouldn't surprise me. She does appear to have been along the Eastern coast for most of her time here. It's possible she came through the Southern ports, as I did, but I understand she has only been here for the past century. That makes passing through New York almost assured."