“They couldn’t do that if you’re here for work… could they?” Binx cracked her knuckles as she contemplatively studied the House.
“Maybe not, but I don’t want to take the chance. If Blood is right about House Tellier, we need to do everything by the book so they can’t complain and wriggle their way out of punishment. Again.” April stared at the House, unemotional, but the way she squeezed her fingers into a tight fist said maybe she wasn’t as calm as she looked.
I pressed my lips together as I weighed out the situation. “Okay.”
April relaxed, the tight lines around her mouth easing. “So I’ll stay here, and you and Binx will go in?”
I contemplatively studied the House, which was painted white and had bright orange shutters. “No.”
Now it was April’s turn to abruptly turn in my direction. “No?”
“It would be smartest for me to approach the House alone,” I said.
Binx folded her arms across her chest and stared at me.
“Why?” April asked for both of them. “The night of the fire you wanted us to go out in pairs.”
“Yes, which is why if things are that bad between House Medeis and House Tellier, you shouldn’t be alone when we’re this close to their territory,” I pointed out. “Should the worst happen, we’ll need a second testimony to verify yours so House Tellier couldn’t claim you’re prejudiced.”
Binx raised her hand. “Question. Do we think House Tellier is a bunch of murderers?”
“No,” I said.
Binx once again crossed her arms over her chest. “Then why do you think there’s even a worst in this possible scenario?”
I adjusted the gloves on my hands. “Habit?”
Binx squinted—as I was learning was her tell that she was confused. “From your slayer days?”
“Er…yes.”
“Hmmm.” Binx turned to look at House Tellier.
April checked her shoulder holster—identical to my own; she was the only other squad member who carried a gun. “If you are that concerned, perhaps we should call for backup and wait until another team comes before approaching.”
“Not necessary,” I said. “I’m just approaching them to ask a few questions about the fire. I will remain on the front porch, even if they invite me in. I will remain within eyesight. If the interview raises any questions, Sarge will want to talk to them in a more official capacity.”
“Uh-huh.” That came from Binx, who was now squinting at the House. “So only you get to plan for the worst-case scenario. Got it.”
“House Tellier isn’t likely to do anything to me,” I pointed out. “I’m a slayer with the task force. But there is a much higher risk that a House Tellier wizard returning home would see April alone and take offense to her presence.”
April and Binx exchanged looks.
“Fine,” April said. “But we’ll be waiting on standby. Anything suspicious and we’re calling it in before we join you, guns blazing.”
“Understood.” I took a step toward the pavers that would lead me up to the front door.
I’d like to be better briefed on wizard behavior, but the risks are low that they’d attack a Curia Cloister’s employee. Wait—I should try to even the chances that I’ll actually get useful information!
I paused and looked back at April. “Is there anything you suggest saying to make them lower their guard?”
“Oh.” April slightly relaxed and adjusted the scarf she had tied around her neck to ward off the autumn chill. “Say something about admiring their heroics yesterday. The Tellier Heir is arrogant beyond belief. He—and the rest of the wizards in the House—will eat that up.”
I nodded. “Understood. Thanks.”
“Sure.” April waved, and for a moment I felt the weird space that the team’s so-called respect for me created waver. She wasn’t as formal, and—for a change of pace—I wasn’t the one left feeling awkward!
Hmm, asking for advice does something. I need to remember that.
I stepped onto the House Tellier property and paused with both feet on the first paver.
Nothing happened.
The House radiated wizard magic, but the magic didn’t flare. The house also hadn’t used the shrubbery to ensnare me or dropped the pavers through the ground to trip me—things I’d heard Houses were capable of.
So, the House doesn’t think I’m a threat? That’s a great start.