Kael I'm halfway through reviewing a land acquisition report when Lilith's name flashes across my screen. She rarely calls during the day unless there is a problem, and I answer immediately. Her face appears calm as ever. The camera angle shifts slightly, and I take in the scene in a single glance. Jade. On the floor, crying. Blood is seeping faintly through her stocking. Lilo is standing in front of Lilith like a small, furious guardian deity, and Luca is sitting nearby, pretending he's never harmed anyone in his life. Lilith's expression is composed. Not distressed. Not shaken. Good. That puts me at ease. "Good morning," she says lightly. "I have a guest." "I see," I reply evenly. Jade's head snaps toward the phone. "Kael! She attacked me! Her animals…" Lilit

