Summary

Nick feels the power at his fingertips and contemplates giving in to his fate. He relishes the feeling of control he has over the arrogant Thorn, as Nick holds him by the throat. He longs for a life where he is respected, rather than being clumsy and mocked. Killing Thorn would propel him to a status beyond the contempt of others. But Nick has a core of self-esteem and knows who he is already; killing a menial won’t prove anything to anyone who matters, so Nick simply demands that Thorn yield. Thorn does not want to submit, but Nick assures him he’s not looking for followers in a grand battle. He just wants Thorn to go away and not cause trouble.

Kody wants to intervene, worried that Nick will give in to his demon nature, but Caleb better understands what is happening...