Hello, Grandfather, a girl’s voice said. She giggled. The Baron’s head jerked. Where was that coming from? He didn’t see her. Did you miss me, Grandfather? “Where are you?” Where you won’t lose me. I will always be with you now. Just like you were with me, haunting me, appearing in visions, refusing to give me rest. The girl’s giggle became more shrill. Now it’s my turn. It was the Abomination, Paul’s sister. “Alia? No, no!”

