demanded, "Who are you and what is this place?"

The creature gave a short laugh and said, "You haven't figured it out yet, Max? I'm not surprised; you never were very quick…"

The thing looked at him, and Max recognized something in its eyes, despite the ruined gray flesh around them.

"… Zan."

A flood of realization hit Max. It couldn't be. It made perfect sense, but it was plainly impossible.

"Oh, my God!" Isabel cried.