Hapney’s body stood over Baron and extended her arms wide, like a crucifixion, one hand holding the book. She swayed side to side and made sounds from deep in her throat.
The infinite wall of vultures also swayed in time, perfectly matching Hapney-Anya’s motion.
“This isn’t good,” Melissa said.
“Look!” Scarlet said. “I think he’s baiting her.”
Melissa squinted and focused on Baron’s face. She noticed his eyes were open just a slit, just enough to watch Anya without tipping her off that he was awake. As Mel studied harder, she noticed the arm he laid on was moving slowly into the trench coat he always wore. She glanced quickly behind her at the wall of vultures, checking if they had seen that she and Scarlet had noticed Baron’s ruse.
Hapney-Anya closed her eyes, brought her hands toget
