Page 28 of Glutton for Punishment

Master speaks from the shadows above us, a rasp drenched in power.

“Nikolai has come in person to update us on the search for the girl.”

My ears perk at that.

Nikolai exhales, shaking his head. “With all due respect, Councilor… there is no update. The search has been futile. My rebels cover the Wastes. There has been no sign of her. It’s been nothing like you said it would be.”

My hands curl before I can stop them.

“Watch your tone when you speak to Master,” I say, stepping towards the ‘professor’ and putting my murder face on.

Nikolai doesn’t even bother to look at me.

How rude.

That should at least warrant a snapped finger.

“Now, now, Maylo,” Master rasps from his throne under his large draped hooded robe.

The bottom of his chin barely shows in the dim light. “Our guest has a right to be frustrated. What I foresaw has not yet come to pass.”

My stomach twists at his words and his nonchalant tone…

Master isn’t wrong often. His visions snap into place like clockwork.

If something hasn’t happened yet…

Either the timing is off. Or something has gone very wrong.

Either way, he won’t be happy. Ice creeps up my spine as fear takes hold of me. Master’s anger is not the fun kind of fear.

“I firmly believe she is in the Wastes, Nikolai,” he continues. “I will send some of our Envy spies to assist in the search. Discreetly, of course.”

Of course.

If the Council discovered Envy was even in communication with Sloth rebels, the entire system would collapse into war and chaos. Pity.

Nikolai nods once and rises from the table. “I appreciate the assistance and your urgency.”

He bows in respect, but his voice sounds hollow. Like his belief is wavering. I bet his teeth would be a perfect addition to my collection. They would be shiny and perfect and white.

He leaves without another word, and the door seals behind him with a quiet thud before silence fills the chamber.

I stare at the floor for a moment, debating whether I should speak about the confusing thoughts in my head.

“Something doesn’t feel right,” I say, glancing up toward the throne. “I can feel it here.”

I point to my chest.

“Send me to spy on the other Councilors. Let me spill some blood. Let me get you answers.”

The silence stretches longer this time.

For one dangerous second, I imagine freedom. Leaving this place to search the continent for Arwen on my own. And then I immediately block it out.

Stupid, Maylo.

I crouch to get on my knees and beg for forgiveness.