sometimes, it’s easier to surrender
- -
???
I'm not insane.
I don't know why anyone would think so.
I can't believe a thought like that would ever cross someone's mind.
It's almost impossible.
If I'm crazy, then what are you?
Ha, then you must be completely out of your mind.
Do you even have one?
I pride myself on being empathetic, clever, manipulative, and sweet.
Those are traits you'll see when you meet me, right?
I'm sure everybody sees that.
I was really clever in boiling in the body, right?
Human meat actually isn't that bad.
Not as bad as fish meat, ugh.
Some girls on the street were looking hungry, so I gave them some soup.
They liked it, so I took them in, and made them it once a week.
I'm happy that someone loves me.
- -
EVERETT
Murders are happening all around the country.
At least once a week, another person is added to the bloody trail that leads across the continent.
When they are discovered missing, a note is always taped to their bedroom door, saying "Sorry" and some condescending things.
The notes are always signed "ERA".
Ever since my grandmother fell victim, I've been on the chase.
Seems like "ERA" is heading to my town next.
I'll be sure to catch her.
- -
???
Hmm...?
A knock on the door.
Oh, look.
An officer~!
"Hello, Officer! What can I offer you today?"
He's staring at me like I'm crazy.
I'm not!
I told all of you, right?
I'm not crazy at all.
"Officer? Would you like some tea?"
...
Did I grow horns?
- -
EVERETT
There's only one word in my head.
BEAUTIFUL.
She's dressed in all black with a ruby necklace.
Enchanting.
"Um, of course. I'd enjoy some tea."
She leads me into the kitchen, where a delicious smell is coming from the pot next to her chair.
"What might that be, ma'am?"
- -
???
I give the pot a quick glance, then turn back, smiling.
"Oh, this? It's dinner! You see, I've adopted three little girls and they absolutely love my soup. Would you like some, sir?"
I am so, so smart.
And courageous, too.
The officer nods and I serve him a bowl.
- -
EVERETT
It is absolutely delicious.
"Oh, by the way, my name's Everett. Or Ever for short."
- -
???
"Ever! How nice!"
I smile.
"My name is Era~. I hope you have a nice day! Well, if you manage to live through it."
A look of pure horror crosses his face.
"Oh, and this soup? Mr. Everett Forest Silver, this is your grandmother you're eating right now. I hope it's not too sinewy, I did boil it for a long time..."
- -
EVERETT
I almost drop my bowl, but I don't want to ruin her precious china.
"Ah... Well..."
I take a step back, out of my chair.
"Would you like to continue this conversation later, ma'am?"
I ask in my politest voice.
"You are very intriguing, and I would love to interview you further."
- -
ERA
"Oh, of course! Here, take a note with you so you don't forget."
I hand one of my black slips to him, already marked with white chalk.
I escort him to the door, smiling.
"Have a wonderful day, Ever!"
I kiss his cheek as a goodbye, making his face pale and red at the same time, and making his slender hands shake.
I think he'll taste good, one way or the other.