The city's night air had turned sharp and still by the time they arrived at the gates of the prison. Valerius's black G-wagon glided to a halt near the guard entrance, lights dimmed, shadows pooling around the perimeter. Chloe sat rigid in the backseat, hands pressed to her knees, her stomach a tangle of dread and anticipation. Lucius leaned back casually, humming under his breath, entirely at ease amidst the danger.

"You really plan to go in there?" Chloe asked, voice tight. "Inside the ...