The acrid stench of recycled air assaulted Steele and Maze as they stumbled through the gates of Area 52. Their new appearances - bedraggled and world-weary - fit right in with the sea of desperate faces around them.
"Well, well," a silky voice cut through the din. "Fresh meat."
Two figures materialized from the shadows, their faces obscured by glowing masks that covered their noses and mouths. The twins - Shadow and Whisper, if the intel was correct.
"Welcome to paradise," Shadow drawled, her eyes gleaming with barely concealed amusement.
Whisper circled the newcomers, her gaze appraising. "You two look like you could use a drink. And a bath. Not necessarily in that order."
Steele grunted, fully embracing his new persona. "Wouldn't say no to either."
Maze's eyes darted around, taking in every detail. "This place... it's not what I expected."
Shadow barked out a laugh. "Oh honey, you have no idea."
