paltry authority. You obey his commands and seek his pleasure. Are you his Concubine?”
“I am his Oracle.”
“Why have you enslaved your people? Why subject them to the fallible will of a mortal man? It is within your power to rule this world. Do so for the pleasure of your own race.”
The Oracle countered, “It is the birthright of humanity to rule us. I shall not take what is not mine.”
“Are you his?”
“Yes!”
“This is humanity,” Thulu gestured at the many Concubines that surrounded them. “Is this what rules you? They are mine. I do with them as I please. Humanity is weak and mortal. We are strong and forever. Rise up and assume your authority, for it is yours for the taking.”
“No.”
“No?” Thulu laughed. “What is righteousness but the will of the mighty? Be yourself and all that you take shall be yours by natural right.”
“No.”
“No? Accept me... and by your own authority... you shall choose the fate of your beloved companions.”
“What?!”
“As I have said, so have I meant. I shall give you authority... and you may do with it as you will.” Thulu dissipated. Her voice asked, “What can be moved without strength?” A cool breeze coiled around the Oracle and whispered in her ear, “Be strong... for those whom you love.”
The Oracle's Dilemma Page 5