"Ravo does not really look like a long-term option. And as long Dawad behaves moving forward I wouldn't mind having around. Is there anyone that we could immediately set up with Bartok?"

“We could try Lan.”

"Are you saying that because they're actually compatible or because he is the closest, quite literally, person available that we could rope into this?"

“Sorry, couldn’t resist. Dawad will be easier than finding someone. We can always try Bartok later if we need more allies.”

"I wonder if there is a spell to find one's true love."

"Or even acceptable OkCupid match."

“You probably should know about cupids.”

They make a face. "Yes, tell us about cupids."

“Cupids are- I don’t actually know how they pick ‘em, come to think of it, but they’re humans who die young and are raised to carry around a ring which they use to make destined pairs fall in love. Don’t ask me about destiny; I’ve given up trying to get a straight answer on that.”

"Uh, unpack 'fall in love'? Are we talking about mind control?"

"It's destiny, so I don't know. If you want to dismantle the whole thing, you have to start with the Elders." 

Sigh. Felicia looks personally offended, in a way that makes her look more like Fernanda.

"Anyway, Dawad. What is the best way to approach him? Should we leave him be for now until it's obvious you're turned or dealing with him earlier is better than not?"

"I think we should do it sooner than later. I don't want them to assign me as a target."

Nod. "Best way to approach him?"

"He responds well to flattery. We need to find him while he's at the gym or the gun range."

"I vote gym, for obvious reasons."

"When do you want to go? We should be ready for a fight."

"Do you think we can take him before figuring out my power?"

"I'm hoping it doesn't come to a fight, but I can take him down if I have to. We shouldn't wait too long."

"Alright, I think at this point we should get Beatrix involved then."

"Sounds good. Think they're finishing up?"

"That is more intimate information about Lan's performance that I currently have, but I doubt Beatrix will be mad if I ask."

In another room of the house, finishing up a much more exciting activity, Lan tries to catch his breath.

"Wow. We should do that again. I mean more than the 'again' we already did it. Just, again. Wow."

Giggle. Kiss. "I approve. Gosh, if you behave I might even give you a praising recommendations to my sisters. Telling them that really ought to try sometime."