“P-pardon?” Kane managed to stutter out, taking in the sight of the beauty before him. She sat beside Mother Isabelle, a small unimposing creature. She had skin the color of cinnamon and full, red lips. But it was the eyes that struck him most. Her dark, round eyes, fringed in thick, black lashes, seemed to stare straight through . Kane felt a flush creeping up his cheeks and was glad to be able to blame the stuffy heat of the tent.

“The Mother is pleased you were able to see her,” the young woman repeated.

“She knew I was coming?”

The girl smiled and Kane’s stomach flipped. “Mother Isabella knows many things, detective.”

Mother Isabelle cut in, speaking rapidly and motioning between them.

The woman nodded to Mother Isabelle. “Forgive me. I am Nadya, Mother Isabelle’s translator. Any and all business concerning the Mother comes through me.”

Kane was intrigued, that much was certain. However he needed to get down to business. There would be plenty of time to play later.