Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1284

Tiana asked, "So now you understand why I've always said you can't have relations with her, right?"

Andrew had not expected the treasure map to involve such a secret requirement. "Virgin blood makes the Rhodes family's map fragment visible? That's quite unusual! But Mrs. Rhodes, why does the fragment I got from Mr. Bates at Oak Apothecary already have visible lines?"

Tiana replied, "There's nothing strange about that. Ronan probably used the virgin blood of a Bates family descendant to make the lines on his fragment appear early. That's why the Bates family was targeted so early—a foolish, self-destructive move!"

Andrew frowned. "So, according to what you're saying, all the treasure map fragments require virgin blood from descendants of their guardians?"

Tiana nodded. "That's exactly right. The Rhodes family fragment has been sealed away, and no blood has been applied to make it visible. That's why Jameson and the previous generations of the Rhodes family haven't been targeted by those with ulterior motives.

"But last time you warned me that Quinton of the Wrights knows that our family has a fragment, and he's planning to make a move soon."

Andrew quickly asked, "That's correct. Have you notified Mr. Rhodes to keep the fragment secure?"

Tiana gave a cold smile, her face full of murderous intent. "Jameson can't protect the fragment—only I can keep it safe. I keep it under my pillow and carry it with me at all times. Anyone who wants to take it will have to get past my fists first and see if they can keep their head attached to their body…"

Andrew nodded and said, "That's certainly a foolproof strategy. With your current strength, ordinary people really wouldn't stand a chance. But the Rhodes family should still be careful.

"When Quinton says he'll make a move, he means it. And knowing how devious he is, he probably won't use direct force but some other stealthy method."

Tiana growled, "Quinton's approach will likely involve bribing someone in the Rhodes family to steal from within. Don't worry about that—I've already got my eye on several suspects. If they dare betray the family, I'll send them six feet under!"

Andrew shrugged and replied, "Well, now that you're stronger, you don't really need my help. But I do have one last question. You and Mr. Rhodes have two daughters, right?"