Lazar whipped Raphael the way he always did. He had more than enough practise. He reprimanded Sam once for looking away, otherwise he kept going at a steady pace, until all the marks crisscrossed with each other and made for a beautiful pattern. Then he leaned down, running a hand through Raphael's hair.

"Punishment is over. Now you can be good again."

He turned and gestured to Sam. "Come with me. Time to ask you some questions."

Sam got up, his face filled with concern while he looked at Raphael. He felt guilty, as he always did. He always brought pain and despair wherever he went.