Defy or Defend (Delightfully Deadly, #2)

by Gail Carriger

Cris strode eagerly after, careful not to overtake her. It was pleasing to trail behind a woman who walked like she had places to be and people to kill.

no rash of murders or disappearances in the area, so they can’t send in the constabulary to get all constabby-stabby.

This particular inventor, one Professor Meeld-Forrison, had responded to Dimity’s initial foray with the rapidity of an allergic reaction, and had retreated into almost complete silence at the merest hint of a fluttered eyelash. When she fiddled with the massive sapphire brooch at her collar (to draw attention to the whiteness of her throat, of course), he nearly fainted.

“You have all the power, young lady. Don’t let him take advantage,” said Cris, getting into the role and loving the way Justice glowed every time she was addressed as young lady. She’d never had such a thing in life, so Cris would address her correctly in afterlife. These things were important, a courtesy that took nothing from his own consequence.