The elevator groaned under the weight of tension as Lucian was escorted upstairs, his chains clinking like the final notes of a symphony that had haunted the Sterlings for decades. Ares and Atlas flanked him, every step measured, every muscle coiled like a spring ready to strike if he tried anything.

Alina followed behind, hand in Maria’s, her pulse still racing but steadier now. Helena brought up the rear, eyes scanning the corridors with the precision of a general overseeing a ...