Beardy had some swagger. Fatima definitely approved. And she had to admit, even if he wasn't trained, that was one hell of a trick with the machete. She would have let out a low whistle of appreciation, but that was anathema to the image she was trying to project.

Maybe later. Because, of course, there was no question in her mind that there would be a later. She hadn't survived thirteen Cainites to fall to what--in her mind--amounted to an overly enthusiastic, but rabid, pack of wolves.

"I was born ready."

She immediately regretted saying it and cringed a little. Being cocky and confident was one thing, but that was just borderline cliche.

"Let's forget I said that," she added with a cringe.

Fortunately, she was saved by a flying leap. The monster arched high and she stabbed upward, catching it in the belly.