Chapter 376: To The Best Inn
"Your city?"
The leader’s smirk widened. "That’s right. You see, strangers who come here uninvited tend to have a rough time." He gestured to his men, who shifted slightly, ready to act. "But if you tell me what you’re here for—and make it worth my while—perhaps we can arrange for a safe stay."
Salviana sighed. "So this is a shakedown."
Lucius cracked his neck. "This is boring."
The leader’s smirk faltered slightly at Lucius’s tone. He looked between the two vampires and then at Alaric, noting his relaxed but unreadable posture.
Jean leaned toward Salviana and whispered, "Sal, Do they not realize we can kill them in under a minute?"
Salviana whispered back, "I don’t think this has gotten to that part Jeannie."
Alaric took a step forward, his smile as charming as ever, but his eyes glinted with something colder. "Listen," he said smoothly, "I’ve been to many cities, and I know how these little introductions work. You want a bribe, a show of submission, or perhaps a favor to prove we ’respect’ your authority."
The leader grinned. "Now you’re getting it."
Alaric tilted his head, then suddenly, in a flash too fast for human eyes, he moved.
One second, he was standing a few feet away. The next, he was right in front of the leader, gripping his throat—not tight enough to choke, but enough to make a point.