"This is my female, but you will not mention a word of her presence. Is that clear?"

The Custodian bows to me, bending so low, his body trembles from the effort exerted. He might be immune to the toxic atmosphere of Katras, but he is not immune to Ze's frightening tone.

"At rest, soldier," Ze intones. "This is an informal visit, and I would like it to be kept that way."

The Custodian wobbles up, though he keeps his eyes on the ground, not daring to glance at either of us.

"Of course. Whatever you need. I am at your service," he mentions, placing his open palm against his chest in another light bow.

Ze's lips curl up, no doubt satisfied with the deferential display.

"I am looking for a certain damned soul. Mayhap you could help me track him down."

The Custodian nods immediately.

"I am pleased to help you, Commander. Who is it that you are looking for? I shall help you to the best of my ability."

Ze opens his palm to reveal a small, black sphere that travels from his hand to the Custodian.

"This damned soul. I would also require a vial of Jì."

The Custodian falters for a moment.

"Commander..." he trails off in a tremulous voice. "You must be aware only the deities of the House of Psyche may use Jì."

Ze's expression tightens.

"I will not breathe a word of it if you do not," he mentions as he manifests a pouch in his hand. Metal rattles inside and I get a vague idea of what he might be offering the Custodian.

The man raises his gaze just enough to see the pouch, and indecision battles over his features. He swallows hard, and after a moment of deliberation, he extends his hands to receive the pouch.

"If you will follow me," he adds in a subdued voice. He swivels, leading us deeper into the hellish dimension that is Katras.

"Did you just bribe him?" I ask Ze in a whisper.

He keeps his features blank as he gives me a barely perceptible nod.

My eyes widen.

"Aren't you supposed to enforce the law, not break it?"

He purses his lips.

"It was necessary."

"Wow, the great Commander Azerius just did something illegal," I add in an amused tone.

He doesn't seem to appreciate the joke, however.

"It was the only way. I did not break the law. I merely circumvented it," he says, proudly pushing his chin up.

"Sure, sure. Whatever makes you feel better." I giggle.

He gives me a severe look.

"I have done it for you, human. You are welcome," he huffs.

"I don't remember asking. I don't even know why we're here, Ze."

"You shall see. It is a surprise."

"Right. I can see that. Not everyone gets a first date in hell. I should consider myself lucky," I add ironically—not that Ze can tell.