Black Morass All things devour

ione did not move, did not flinch, as envy pressed against her, winding around her like a serpent seeking warmth. she let the girl do as she pleased, let her tangle herself in the reverend mother’s presence as though it might fill the hollow left behind.

her touch was desperate, hungry, but ione knew hunger well.

you will learn. her voice was quiet, smooth, an undisturbed surface over deep waters. "you will grow."

she looked down at envy, at the pale fur streaked with remnants of her turmoil, at the glint in her eyes that had not yet dimmed. no, she was not broken, not yet.

you will be more than what they left behind. a promise, a certainty. ione did not offer comfort, not in the way others might, but she would offer purpose. a place. but first, you will listen.

her chin tilted slightly, an invitation, a challenge. are you ready?