The show was magical.

  Almost all Sirens had the ability to mix their suggestive powers into their music. The hypnotic feeling gave listeners a type of high that was so contagious, their home planet of Scylla was said to have a place to help beings detox so they can leave the planet, since it can be so addictive.

  Years of sineating had dulled my senses to suggestion, and while I could have just dumped the pleasure that danced into my ears, I allowed myself to listen to the songs.

  Starna and Vin were both consumed by the lively music, and even Pera tapped her foot along with some of the beats.

  When Alwen came with our food, I noticed ear plugs in her long ears. I’d wondered how the staff would be able to operate during the show. I knew there were some who were resistant to it and that there were various forms of suggestion that they could produce as well. Unlike the Succubi, the Sirens rarely tried to tempt their targets with lust, instead focusing on lulling them into a state of contentment and bliss.

  The first break was three songs in and just after our food was delivered. The crowd booed as Madam Holly slithered off the stage so that we could eat. The crowd changed their tune when a Bastet woman danced onto the stage.

  The cat-woman had a long, bushy black tail with a thick white and gold stripe underneath. Her gold and black skin tight outfit was more conservative than Madam Holly’s allowing us to see the white fur over her collarbone on her otherwise black coat, but the fluidity of her dance was just as entertaining.

  I looked over at my brother, whose mouth was hanging open. Before I could say anything, a voice spoke up behind us.

  “Have you enjoyed yourselves?”

  I turned around to see Madam Holly in the doorway.

  “Holly!” Pera got up. “It’s been too long!”

  “Not long enough.” The siren waved off a hug. “Martin hasn’t been the same since your brood drained him.”

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  The Vampire looked hurt. “I told you, that wasn’t my coven.” She waved it off. “Besides, those rogues won’t be bothering anyone anymore.”

  The pale woman shook her head. “It’s always violence with you.”

  “Once upon a time, you were very happy to have my violence.” The matriarch grinned. “But tonight isn’t about us.” She turned to me. “Madam Holly Alaquar, may I present Prince Sectum Malus and his promised, Princess Starna Shellock.”

  “And his dashing brother, Vincent Irongut… uh Malus.” My brother got up and bowed.

  “I’m an ambassador, not a princess.” Starna stuttered as she stood up and smoothed her dress.

  “Nonsense!” Pera grinned. “If you are the promised of a prince, then you are a princess.”

  The Siren shook her head. “You just can’t help yourself, can you?”

  The Vampire shrugged and stepped to the side.

  “You have a lovely voice.” I held out my hand for her, which she shook.

  “Is there anything that I can get you?” Madam Holly looked at each of us, her eyes settling on my brother. “I could arrange for you to meet Irdis, if you’d like.”

  “We’re good.” I glared at my brother, who was about to contradict me. “For now.”

  Vin glanced over at his date, but still had to think about it for a moment before he nodded his head. “Yeah, I’m good.”

  “Excellent.” The Siren bowed. “If you need anything, then let one of my attendants know.” She looked at the older woman. “You snuck in here, but don’t do it again. Your wounds may have healed but ours haven’t.” She looked at me. “I hope you enjoy the rest of the show.”

  I watched her leave, then turned back to my meal. Vin was still staring at the lithe feline woman on stage.

  “You sure you don’t want an introduction?” I eyed my brother. “I’m sure Pera knows who to talk to.”

  The large feline looked over at his date, then shook his head as he flashed us a grin. “I’ve already got a lovely date.”

  Starna scrunched her brow. “About that…” She nodded at my brother’s hand that had just been placed on the other woman’s bare arm. “How’re you not in pain?”

  The Vampire smiled, revealing her teeth. “When you’ve been around as long as I have, you learn a few things that become lost to time.” She patted my brother’s hand. “Depending on how the night goes, maybe I’ll tell your friend and see if he can explain it.”

  “Uh…” Starna swallowed. “That’s okay, I was just curious.”

  The Bastet woman danced off the stage to the back of the theater as Madam Holly slithered out and took the microphone. The four of us returned to our seats and settled in for the rest of the show.

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