The club pulsed with energy. Music thundered from the speakers, a deep bass shaking the floor. Neon lights flickered across the walls, bathing the dancers in hues of red and violet. The air smelled of expensive alcohol, perfume… and something else.
Something metallic.
Blood.
Chi scanned the room, sharp eyes analyzing the crowd. Most were human. Some… weren't.
The vampires blended in too well—lean figures, sharp gazes, movements just a little too smooth. Predators among prey.
Rayna leaned in between them, pretending to fix her hair.
"I counted at least ten. Could be more."
Damon grunted.
"Then let's make this quick. Where do we start?"
Rayna smirked.
"I say we dance."
Damon blinked.
"...What?"
Before he could protest, she grabbed his wrist and pulled him onto the dance floor.
"Chi, blend in! I'll find a way to slip into the restricted areas."
Chi huffed but nodded, casually making his way toward the bar. He didn't drink, but this would give him a reason to observe the club without drawing suspicion.
Whispers in the Dark
Rayna danced, moving effortlessly through the crowd. But this wasn't just for fun—she was listening.
And then she heard it.
Near the VIP section, two vampires were talking, their voices barely audible over the music.
"Man, this is rough. I need real blood, not this watered-down trash."
"Be patient," the other hissed. "If we're not careful, the enemy will find our source of power."
Rayna's eyes narrowed. The heart.
The first vampire groaned.
"Fine. But I still don't like it. Why do we have to be so secretive about it?"
The other vampire tensed, his tone sharp.
"Don't say that here. If someone hears—"
Rayna took a step closer.
"—Lor said we cannot talk about it so freely!"
Rayna grinned. Jackpot.
She turned on her heel, weaving her way back toward Chi and Damon, her smile full of mischief.
"Well, boys," she whispered as she reached them. "I know exactly what we're looking for."