Chapter 22
Congratulations
A day's journey away from Fedonis the Hermit's Circle of Wisdom, Ms. Fritz crouched next to a large stone and edged her way closer to a small stream that ran parallel to a crystal rock bed. Shards of precious stone jutted out from the water, creating a collage of mirrors. There she was: plain, squat, and Germanic. But what did appearances matter now, now that she was doing Mantel's Great Work? Mantel loved her, she knew, more than any other man could. He understood rejection, not like all those shallow people of the past. She dreamed of the future, the inevitable future. She was venerated for her bravery and intelligence, a rare combination indeed. Yes, even through strife and discouragement, Gorda Fritz persevered in doing what was right for her brothers and sisters—bringing into fruition the Kingdom of Mantel. There would be statues, yes, and people would gather to give thanks and offerings, and read her quotes in public, or perhaps set them to music. She would continue to live, of course, as a scholar and a paragon of wisdom, teaching pupils at the most esteemed institutions. Despite her age, she would have many suitors. No, she would have to say, I am betrothed to the people.
The Intergalactic Intelligence Unit followed at her rear, shouldering heavy weapons. Their crisp, white uniforms now looked sooty and torn.
"It should be just through here," said Ms. Fritz. She spit on her hand and then ran it across the top of her head, smoothing down the stray hairs. Her bun had wilted, and though she longed to fix it, she could not as time was of the essence. They were hunting, and their trophy was right in front of them.
Down the trail, in a clearing full of ferns, was a centaur-like creature, the fusion of a woman and a horse soul. Grazing on the leaves next to her was a miniature replica—a rare child born in the Maze. The father, if there was one, was unknown. Aside from the logistics of the birth, Mantel was interested in the delicacy of a fresh soul, untainted by the darkness of experience. Mantel wanted more babies and more power. "Don't you see?" Mantel had hissed at Ms. Fritz. "I've been consuming too many damned spirits—it's why the demons come here. In order to compete with God, I need to consume the innocent. I need you to initiate a breeding program, Ms. Fritz. I want more babies!"
Jasmine hung her head between her legs and covered her mouth. She burped and the creatures flinched, then galloped into a tunnel.
"Damn it!" yelled Ms. Fritz. But then she smiled and crossed her arms. "Jasmine, this is the second time today."
Jasmine moaned.
"And you're late?"
"I am," replied Jasmine.
"Let's get her back to Mantel. She needs to be off the front lines."
Bentley smiled and shook hands with Drew. He then patted Jasmine on the back. "Congratulations, Jasmine. Your sacrifice is unparalleled."
Jeremy Chikalto and Leviathan Island (Book II of The Hazy Souls) Page 23