Valerie held Wylie's hand tightly as they appeared in front of the small shack where Prentice was staying. Tiergan squeezed her other hand. Magnate Leto released Wylie's other hand and walked to the door.

When they entered, the first thing Valerie noticed was Tam sitting in the corner.

He met her gaze and smiled sadly.

Valerie approached him and pulled him into a hug. "Thank you." She pulled away. "You have no idea what this means to me."

Tam stood stunned, his cheeks bright red. "Uh... no problem."

Valerie cleared her throat, her cheeks tinged pink as she noticed the others watching them.
————
Wylie stiffened when Sophie walked into the room and Valerie squeezed his hand reassuringly.

Sophie stood awkwardly on the opposite side of the room.

Tam moved to the side of Prentice's cot. "Are you all sure you want be here?" He met each person's gaze. "This won't be pleasant." He waited for everyone to nod and took a deep breath. "Okay, here we go."

They stood in silent anticipation as Tam worked to lift what he called a 'veil.' Soon, the screams started. Sophie was the first to cover her ears, trying to block out the sound of pure terror and pain. Wylie was squeezing Valerie's hand so tight her fingers were starting to go numb. Tiergan had a hand on each of their shoulders, gripping them tightly. Magnate Leto stared at the floor, fists clenched. Valerie looked her father right in the eye the whole time as he writhed on the cot, her lips quivering and her fingernails digging into the palm of her clenched fist. She had heard enough of her own tortured screams to bear his. When the noise faded, Valerie finally looked away.

Tam panted. "That one was heavier."

Valerie walked over to the cot on shaky legs and sat next to Tam. Without thinking, she grabbed his quivering hand.

He flinched and pulled back. "Sorry, your hand is just really cold."

Valerie met his gaze and noticed his red cheeks. Blushing herself, she looked away. "Sorry."

Someone spoke up, ushering everyone into the basement.

Valerie didn't move. She stared into Prentice's pale, sweaty face. It hurt to see him like this-  without his warm smile. She clutched his hand tightly, hoping her cold skin might rouse him. Nothing happened. She took a deep breath.

Suddenly, the others filed out of the basement.

Tam walked over to her and gave her a hug. It was awkward, but it helped.

He pulled back and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Hang in there."

Valerie did her best to smile to him.