The overwhelming stench of burning pitch burned Taurian's nostrils and acrid smoke burned his throat, making him cough and choke. He thrashed to sit up, but thick chains held him down on a table. No matter how much he strained, the bindings across his chest, legs, and arms refused to budge.

In the corner, the woman from earlier stared at him and smoked a pipe. Her gray hair belying her taupe, unwrinkled face. Though her shoulders were slightly hunched, she gave the air of ...