Denouement

"What does it take to break a man?"

The figure—male, female, Meryl didn't know, but immaculately well-groomed regardless—strolled around the room.

"We're going to find out," Elendira continued. Ruby red lips curved in a perfect smile. "Well, I will. You're probably not going to be around." S/he jerked the nail; crimson blood flowed.

Meryl bit her lip until she tasted copper.

"Time for bed. You can keep bleeding." Elendira paused in the doorway. "I've always wanted to know. Maybe you can visit my dreams and tell me."

Hearing remained as Meryl's vision faded.

"Is there a God?"