Chapter 87

Deacon turned to face Timotei, who emerged from the wings holding a large chalice full of wine. The vampyr kept his gaze neutral, his gaze hovering just above the crowd.

“Some of you may be familiar with Communion, whether from your church or your television set.” A few people chuckled. “For those who aren’t, this is when we drink the blood of Christ and partake of his body that we may have his blessings conferred upon us. Unlike what you’ve seen or experienced before, this is the real deal. The spirit is strong in this place and I can feel it watching us even now. I promise you, my friends, that this is a very special Mass and that is no ordinary wine. Please.” He gestured toward someone in the front row, a woman who was in a wheelchair.

The woman rolled forward, her eyes fixed on Osgrove. Lily wondered if she was a demon, but didn’t think so. When she got to the bottom of the stairs, Deacon stepped around the pulpit.

“Mary Anne here has been paralyzed from the wa