Read Fang Shway in LA for Free Online Page B

each other. I was equally certain that I wouldn’t like the answers to any of these questions.
    “Yo. Lauren, Traygen has returned.”
    Startled I jumped. I’d been lost in thought. “What did you find out?” I asked as I sat down opposite Traygen.
    “The Russians have had the spear since the fall of Berlin. However, they were unaware of it until recently. The real Vienna Lance was in the hands of a wealthy antiquities collector. The Vatican and any number of potential buyers responded to a recent Internet posting about the spear. Unfortunately the collector was murdered and the spear disappeared before it could be sold.”
    Sitting up straighter in my chair, I said, “It would attract a shit load of unsavory interest. But I can’t honestly imagine why a Mexican drug cartel would have an interest or the vampires either for that matter. It doesn’t make any sense. For one, a vampire wouldn’t want to get within one hundred miles of a powerful religious relic. I suppose the drug cartel could sell it but why bother? Drugs are more profitable. Any ideas?”
    “Not yet. Why don’t we outline what we do know? Maybe it will point out something we’ve overlooked.” Traygen suggested.
    I got out a piece of paper and began to outline what we knew. “We know the cartel is smuggling drugs and that they’ve convinced a wizard to assist them with the vampires. The vampires have brought in a Daywalker to protect their interests on the docks and I imagine for muscle against the wizard.”
    “Lauren, it just doesn’t add up. Why would either party go to such extremes? It’s not like there is a shortage of areas to set up shop. I know the docks are harder for the authorities to patrol. Nevertheless, the cartels usually smuggle their drugs in through the desert or fly them in below the radar. Why risk a war with the vampires or the Russians? They are only drawing attention to themselves that they don’t want. Damn it, we are missing something.”
    “Traygen, as usual your logic is spot on. Perhaps, we're not looking at this from the proper angle. Can I get you something to drink?”
    “Yes, thank you.”
    Traygen twisted the cap off his beer and threw it in the trash. Tossing back a long swig, he sighed before continuing. “I suggest we set the vampire issues aside for a minute. They have the least to lose because few people believe they even exist. The Russians are advertising the spear on the black market, they don’t want to draw the attention of the local authorities, which leaves us with the cartel. I can’t see how they gain anything either. Actually, it is in everyone’s best interest to keep low profiles.”
    “I agree but time is running out. Jason gave me seventy-two hours more or less. We just don’t have enough information. I think we need to contact the Russians. Perhaps, we can pose as potential buyers. I know some people in the art community. I’ll call them when the sun comes up. We may as well rest while we can.”

Chapter 7
     
    Any excuse to dress up, I called my contacts in the art world and found a handful of people with an interest and the money to bid on the spear. Calling in some favors, I got us invited to a black tie gallery opening in Santa Monica. Traygen was less than enthusiastic but I was in my element. I just love a good formal. My only challenge was how to stylishly accessorize my weapons. I couldn’t just stick my handgun or telescoping staff into my purse. It just couldn’t be done with my small elegant clutch.
    Eventually, I opted to leave my staff in the car, I wasn’t happy about it but what can I say? I’m a slave to fashion. We only go around once and for me style is everything. When Traygen pulled the car around front I was wearing a black taffeta Tadashi dress and black Manolo Blahnik pumps.
    Traygen let out a low whistle. “Wow, nice outfit. Seeing you look so gorgeous is almost worth wearing this getup.”
    “Thanks. I picked this dress because the full shirt hides