Seeing the look of sheer disbelief on my face, Damian patted my shoulder, before saying. “They’re part of the world's largest criminal organisation—some even say Alexei Volkov runs the council. He provides everything for their illegal work—money, drugs, women, children. And no matter what you say or do, they won’t stop at anything.”

“I don’t understand,” I said in confusion. “If he’s all that, then why do I never know?“

“You never knew because he simply didn’t want you to find.” Alessandro’s voice glittered with excitement. He took a deep breath. “As to what they want with you, it’s pretty clear by now.”

I shook my head, feeling overwhelmed.

“In...