Jude watched from a distance. The fences were tall, electrified. Cameras covered every angle. Inside, he saw children playing under artificial lights, watched by guards dressed as counselors. Smiles painted on like masks. He saw Rhea, small, thin, eyes dull.
"We'll get her," Jude said.
Tamir didn't speak. He just nodded once.
Jude called in a favor. One he'd hoped to never use. The voice on the other end was reluctant, but when Jude mentioned Ascendia, there was a pause, and then silence.
"I'll give you twenty minutes," the voice said. "No more."
It was enough.
