“How do we know you’re not possessed?”

“Because I’m not.” It’s a weak response, but I’m not sure how else I’m supposed to convince someone I’m not controlled by Influence.

“How was Influence removed from your mind?”

“I can’t…explain it.” It was too personal of an experience, and I don’t want to give these people any more of myself.

“Eurydice, you realize expelling Influence from a host is a valuable weapon?” Elite Gwen asks. I don’t like the way she looks at me, like I’m some marvel—a rare insect to study.

“Yes,” I say. “And I can’t really tell you how I did it, but I did.”

Elite Cain and Mr. Val exchange a look—a wordless conversation that says: Figure it out.

“Eurydice, you have told Elite Cain that Lennon has a following,” Elite Ezekiel says. “Have you seen it?”

“No.”

“And yet you believe this?”

“Lennon is captivating, and she has a story. Anyone jaded by the Order would follow her.”

“Including you?”

“What?” First they question whether I’m possessed by Influence, and now I’m being openly accused of treason.

“You make it no secret you despise us.”

That is a strong word. “Are you ignoring the part where she tried to kill me? Why would I follow someone who wants me dead?”

“We’re just trying to determine where your loyalties lie, Eurydice,” says Roth. I glance at him. He’s been silent this whole time. I don’t like that he’s chosen now to speak up, especially since he’s sealed my allegiance by stealing my poppa’s coin.

“My loyalty lies with myself,” I say.

Everyone is quiet, and my gaze sweeps the faces surrounding me. There is a mix of reactions. Some mistrust me. Others seem smug, almost proud. Some I can’t read, including Mr. Val.

“Very well, Eurydice,” Elite Cain begins. “You are—”

“Before I’m dismissed, I have requests for the Order.” It’s time for new rules.

The whole room tenses, even Shy, who I can feel behind me.

“You have requests?” Elite Ezekiel asks. “To make of us?”

I just stare. I won’t repeat myself.

The Valryn laughs. “This is ridiculous. You do not get to make demands of us.”

“I don’t threaten to abandon you to Influence’s power or leave lost souls on earth. I don’t even threaten to take your soul,” I say. “But you will do me this courtesy because you respect me. Is that understood?”

Another peal of laughter. It’s Elite Gwen. When I meet her gaze, her eyes sparkle. She says, “Please, Eurydice, continue.”

“First, you will grant me a patrol and access to your records. I can’t know what’s going on in my town without it. Second, I get to choose my partners. Third…”

“This is insane!” Elite Ezekiel exclaims.