"Of course," Ippolit said, studying Nika's averted face carefully. "You're free to observe whenever you like."

That way, he would know immediately when the cause of death was discovered. Polya was certain it would be. A markless corpse was a distinctive calling card. If Isaev were a murderer, could he be that stupid?

Or that arrogant?

A charm that called people to him and ensured they would protect him...

No. That was ridiculous.

It was only natural that both, especially his own lover, would never think he could have really done it.

"Blood..." Rakitin mused. "Not the victim's?"

He winced.

"Let me guess. An ocelot's spots."