Lincoln speaks in a low and deliberate voice. “We came from the Arena. The demons attacked everyone, ghouls included. The Oligarchy barely escaped with their lives. We’re on the same side, friend.”

“The demons attacked, eh?” Tim scowls. “And whose fault is that? You forget, I worked with the Senator for years. She’d never give up on the republic. She’s still scheming and fighting, mark my words.”

Mom’s voice is calm and soothing. “Please understand, Tim. I’m not the same–”

“Spare me.” He turns to Mom, eyes blazing. “I’m not sure how you’ve angered Armageddon, but you’ll pay for it. The Oligarchy are coming.”

A new portal opens; through it steps the Oligarchy in their deep red robes. The Scala lies on a stretcher between them, the old thrax’s eyes closed in deep sleep. The portal disappears.

Bands of anxiety bind my shoulders and neck. The Oligarchy are here? The whole reason for this little bunker excursion was so I could hide from power-freaks like them. Once they know who I am, they’ll try to control me. Rage and frustration careen through my body, tension coils through every muscle. Damn, damn, damn!

I grit my teeth, forcing my breathing to slow. Stay calm, it’s only the Oligarchy. These aren’t the scariest monsters in town, by far. It’s not like Armageddon’s here.

Tim’s sneer melts into a look of awe. “Mighty Oligarchy, I bring you a prisoner to appease our invaders.” He gestures to Mom. “Senator Lewis.” Next, he points directly at me. “And that one may pretend to have special powers. Don’t be fooled.”

The Oligarchy set down the Scala’s stretcher. “Excellent work.” Their heads swivel in unison as they survey the room. “And this place is safe from demons?”

“Yes, it’s surrounded in angelfire.” Tim nods his head so vigorously, I’m shocked he doesn’t get whiplash. “It’s the perfect place to conduct your negotiations.”

The Oligarchy nod. “And you’re certain this plan will work?”

Tim’s huge black eyes beam with pride. “Yes, it’s like I told you. Senator Lewis would never really become a seamstress. She’s been planning to restore the old republic. Believe me, this is why Armageddon invaded. Get rid of the Senator, you’ll get rid of him too.”

I sigh. Tim doesn’t know how Mom changed after she lost Xavier. He can’t imagine Senator Lewis doing anything but fight. My mouth droops into a frown as I stare into the Oligarchy’s open, gullible faces. They’re grasping at any straw rather than face the truth about Armageddon.

The Oligarchy let out a low hiss, then speak in unison. “The King of Hell arrives any moment.” Their heads turn in a single motion, scanning the room. “Let us hope that handing over the Senator is enough to appease him.”