In the distance a wolf howls. Let it come, I think. Beast will most likely simply howl back, and the creature will either turn tail and run or fall into line behind him, like the rest of us have.

Why be the sheep when you can be the wolf?

And just as love has two sides, so too does Death. While Ismae will serve as His mercy, I will not, for that is not how He fashioned me. Every death I have witnessed, every horror I have endured, has forged me to be who I am -- Death's justice.

I have found it is surprisingly difficult to remain sad when a cat is doing its level best to sandpaper one's cheeks.

You are not my nursemaid. Remember, I am rescuing you.

Surely He does not give us hearts so we may spend our lives ignoring them.

A kiss for luck, demoiselle?" It is a magnificent, lusty kiss and I feel nothing but deep regret that it may be his last. Just before he pulls away, he whispers in my ear. "Duval said to give you that should I get a chance. It is from him.