Summary

Chapter 4 switches back to Darlington, as he helps Alex up after setting jackals onto her, which was an illusion designed to test her. However, Darlington warns her that he cannot promise she will not be in danger in the future; that was a risk when working for Lethe.

Darlington asks Alex why she always wears long sleeves, and discovers she is covered in tattoos. The one that sticks out to him the most is “the curling tail of a rattlesnake” (59). As they enter Il Bastone, Lethe’s headquarters, Darlington introduces Alex to Dawes. Then, he gives Alex a tour, and introduces her to something called “Hiram’s Crucible” (62), the vessel used to make Orozcerio. He explains how dangerous drinking the elixir is. He then shows her the Dante’s room, which was formerly his and now hers.

As Alex looks around, Darlington decides...