Velli

“Now, Velli.” Prometheus’s voice returns to an uncomfortable baritone. “You don’t know the Book of Kaleínlanthasménos exists. If you make me happy enough, one day, I’ll show you a peek of it, or if one day you make me mad enough, I’ll show you the whole thing. But back to the mouths’ story. Now that you understand the true fabric of your reality is as solid as water, I will ask you the most important question anyone will ever ask. Do you choose to deliver at least three legends of Division’s Hand or at least three fools who you can trick into loving you? The answer is very obvious, especially considering your condition…”

He pauses like he wants the question to linger. I don’t need it to. No need for me to think.

“You… you don’t have any morals, Prometheus?”

Prometheus moans. “What’s hard to understand? It’s madness. From your destiny to your morals, it’s all madness that doesn’t matter.”

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

“If my morals are madness, then I’ll be mad in peace.”

“You will never understand. The story goes over all your heads.”

“Your story wasn’t complicated, and I’m smart. I know it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things, but to me, it does.” I am what I am. It is what it is. I live how I live. “If the options are to capture three homicidal monsters or trick three innocents, I’ll always be a monster slayer. I’ll bring you at least three legends of Division’s Hand, and you prepare transportation to the Isle of Tselem. I’ll be in touch.”

With that, I leave. He doesn’t speak to me as I walk away. I imagine he understands there’s nothing more to say.

Where’d the sudden bravery come from, champ?

Not brave, just can’t respect someone like that. He told me to back down because he would back down. All the power in the world, and he’s afraid to fight. I could never fear someone like him. If he wants to kill me for failing him, he knows where to find me.

Fine with me as long as we die soon.

“Oh, and, Velli?” Prometheus calls before I step out of the room. “You have three days, or the deal’s off, and I’ll kill you.”

The door slams shut behind me without my prompting.