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I instantly freeze.

It’s Giovanni standing there – the greasy-haired host from the previous night. He’s holding a pistol aimed right at my face.

“Drop the weapon.”

I drop the Orb-Blade, which deactivates the moment it clatters to the ground.

The towering Aurelian who calls himself Torelli strides down the hallway, to take his position behind Giovanni. He looks down at me with incredulous eyes.

“Little one - did you really think that would work? Breaking in here? Did you really think I have no security?”

I instantly feel so,sostupid.

Yes, I’d thought I could sneak in. Yes, I’d thought it would be that simple.

But I hadn’t thought – not really.

The only thought I’d truly had was the overwhelming thought thatmy sisterhadto be in there.

I hear a footstep to my left – but before I can turn my head, something hits mehard.

The world instantly goes black.

The last thought I have before I pass out?

Lilac…