Chapter Twenty-Four

On a frigid, snowy day in Oz Park, Harry arrives early for a tense follow-up meeting with Lara after fraught negotiations. Still raw from grief and pain, he grounds himself in the cold until Lara arrives, stealthy but unmistakable. They share wry banter that acknowledges attraction and danger.

Harry apologizes for his Halloween bravado; Lara accepts, noting he’d likely react the same under threat. Lara then apologizes for the kiss, admitting it came from anger, embarrassment, and her past defenses. She appears uncharacteristically tired and unadorned, revealing she hasn’t slept well and is under strain: her team trailing Justine has gone dark en route to St. Petersburg; Houses Skavis and Malvora are plotting; and Lord Raith may be covertly communicating, undermining her.

They briefly test trust. Lara admits she liked kissing Harry and hints the taste has disturbed her sleep, while Harry acknowledges the pull but stays cautious. Lara states her intent to rise above her predatory nature, knowing only time can prove sincerity.

Harry then proposes a deal: Lara teaches him deep White Court knowledge—origins, systems, and the process Thomas is enduring with his Hunger—so Harry can craft a way to save Thomas. He swears by his power to use that knowledge only for Thomas. In return, he asks Lara’s help to get Etri off his back, arguing that saving Thomas is pointless if Thomas must remain hidden on Demonreach.

Lara weighs the risks of empowering a wizard who once erased the Red Court, noting the trust required. Harry frames it as a practical test before Mab’s forced alliance binds them. After he helps her to her feet, Lara declines to commit immediately and says she’ll think it over for a few days.