Silas trailed after Leo into the Porthus Lounge, an informal speakeasy that the younger Wolders frequented. The Wolder lacked the population to maintain a service industry, so a number of watering holes had popped up with unspoken membership policies. The Porthus Lounge reflected a piece of each member's personality. The numerous plants offset the otherwise somber room thanks to Florian's green thumb. Leo kept both the bar and the bookshelves well stocked. Aldo supplied the erratic record collection. After too many frustrating nights searching for specific albums, it was decided that any record touched was queued, regardless of what was actually found in the sleeve.
Leo stepped to the bar and poured himself a large cup of Lillet and a tumbler of gin. Handing it to Silas, he then nested into the deep velvet club chair.
"How long did you have to trail Hall?"
"Barely a fortnight. He's sloppy."
"Happens when you think you're the apex predator. But you would think after the recent culling, he would be more cautious. This territory has been a nightmare from the start. I still don't know what the Council was thinking adding me to Trial"
"Probably due to popular demand," Silas said with a halfhearted smirk. While teasing Leo about his numerous admirers was fun, Waylon was disgusting.
Leo took a long sip. "Do you know who they're sending for Hall?"
"Aldo? He certainly enjoys the wet work," he said with amusement. Silas didn't shy away from the fertility ceremonies but didn't relish the experience like his foster brother.
Leo gave a fond chuckle. "Speaking of the devil..."
Aldo sauntered into the Lounge with easy confidence. He dropped a kiss on Leo's head en route to the libations. Once he had a drink in hand, he plopped next to Silas and tipped his glass in greeting.
"Good evening, gentlefolk. Any idea why Waylon is looking for me? I had to make three connections to shake him. Though I did grab a sandwich when passing through the Bodega, so not entirely a waste."
"Too bad he had good news for you. Trial voted for a slaughter again." Leo mentioned between sips. The Lillet brought a rosy glow to his cheeks, highlighting his diamond-sharp cheekbones.
"Ohhh, the madame?"
"No, Sian took care of her a couple of days ago. The rich serial killer."
"You've been busy."
"This new territory is a spawning ground for criminals."
Aldo murmured noncommittally. He flipped in his chair, stretching his long legs over the back, seemingly losing interest in the conversation.