The flickering candlelight threw Valerius's shadow large against the walls, monstrous and commanding, as Chloe writhed against the cross. Her skin was already alive from his strikes, trembling with the sting and heat of the flogger.

He stepped closer, setting the flogger aside for a moment. In his hand, gleaming like some forbidden instrument, was a sleek device that hummed faintly when he flicked it on. Chloe's eyes widened.

"You think punishment is only pain?" Valerius murmured, brushing the ...