16.z (Bonus Interlude #3; Marquis)

Worm, Chapter 16.z (Bonus Interlude #3; Marquis) Summary

“Holding court?” Cinderhands questioned Marquis, who affirmed, stating the time was right due to high demand and anticipation. Amelia, his daughter, expressed reluctance, but Marquis emphasized the necessity for her to use her healing power, hinting at potential threats if she didn’t. He reassured her that he wouldn’t abandon her, even if it meant relinquishing his power as leader of Block W.

Lung, a formidable prisoner, stood nearby. Marquis acknowledged Lung’s history as a ruthless killer who had violated the underworld’s code. Unlike Lung, who relied on instinct and brute force, Marquis operated with a calculated approach, earning respect through strategy.

Amelia’s presence in the men’s cell block was precarious. Marquis had enlisted his men to protect her, but their patience was wearing thin. Cinderhands questioned Marquis’s decision to hold court with Amelia present, but Marquis dismissed his concerns. He tasked Cinderhands with informing other block leaders about the meeting, emphasizing a first-come, first-served basis.

Marquis contemplated provoking a mutiny to solidify his leadership and identify potential threats. He recognized Amelia as a “blank slate,” troubled by nightmares and a lack of sleep. He recalled two similar cases in his cell block, whom he had eventually bartered away. He instructed Amelia to shower and dress appropriately for the meeting, emphasizing the importance of not appearing weak.

From his vantage point, Marquis observed his cell block, noting the order maintained by his lieutenants. He saw the predatory glances directed at Amelia and created a temporary bone barrier to ensure her safety. He reflected on the risks involved, considering either returning Amelia to the women’s block or facing a potential mutiny.

Marquis reminisced about his past with Amelia, recalling cherished memories that felt distant now. He aimed to create new memories with her but recognized the need to address her psychological state and solidify his power base first.

Lung approached, expressing his disapproval of Marquis’s actions regarding Amelia. Marquis acknowledged the loss of respect but maintained his resolve. He invited Lung to the meeting, suggesting it would benefit both of them. Lung was skeptical, but Marquis insisted, stating that he would rather be killed by a “rabid wild beast” like Lung than be betrayed by an ally.

Marquis selected a book from the latest supply drop and sat down, observing Lung from afar. He saw Amelia return and offered her a book from the auction, which she declined. He instructed her on how to conduct herself during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of eye contact, clear speech, and brevity.

The cell block leaders arrived, including Acidbath, Galvanate, Teacher, Lab Rat, Gavel, Lustrum, Black Kaze, Glaistig Uaine, String Theory, Crane, and Ingenue. Gavel questioned Amelia’s presence in the men’s block, while Lustrum demanded repayment for delivering Amelia to Marquis.

Marquis explained that Amelia wouldn’t be healing anyone immediately, stating they were weighing their options. He mentioned the high demand for her healing and his reluctance to exhaust her. Glaistig Uaine, a powerful and enigmatic cape, declared she wouldn’t bargain with Marquis but would deal with Amelia as an equal.

Amelia curtseyed to Glaistig Uaine, a gesture Marquis had taught her long ago. Glaistig Uaine reciprocated, then departed. Galvanate inquired about Amelia’s ability to heal toothaches, leading to a discussion about a discount for Teacher’s cell block in exchange for information.

Amelia asked why the prisoners couldn’t escape, and Teacher explained the theory of size-warping technology, suggesting the prison was much smaller than it appeared. The discussion resumed, with Marquis subtly manipulating the other leaders.

Amelia muttered about “faeries” as they walked to the communal dining area. Marquis explained Glaistig Uaine’s ability to see auras and her delusion of collecting “souls.” Amelia revealed she saw Glaistig Uaine’s physiology and the sentient entities within her, hinting at a deeper understanding of powers.

Amelia confessed she asked to come to the Birdcage because she had “unmade” her sister, Victoria, with her power. She expressed guilt and a fear of forgetting her sister. Marquis suggested she get a tattoo as a permanent reminder of Victoria.

In her cell, Amelia addressed Dragon, her words transcribed by the monitoring system. Key phrases triggered flags, and the information was routed to Dragon’s satellite system. However, the Simurgh’s interference scrambled the message, causing it to be classified as non-pertinent and archived. The Simurgh continued its flight, unaware of the missed communication.