They say I must go with them. They insist my survival requires leaving home.

But who knows if they’ll survive me. .

. Harwell’s shrew.

My name is Annibeth Petters. Nobody wants to hear my story, and I get it.

My crimes are stacking up. I betrayed Vale's grandmother without pause.

I manipulate others for my gain. I keep my boyfriend in line by using his father.

And those are just the things I’ll admit to without a fight. But I might surprise you.

I'm not as heartless as I seem. I'm not as calculating as I pretend to be.

I have fears and dreams. And though I’m unkind, it's not entirely my fault.

Because I was instructed from a young age to act this way, targeting specific citizens for adoration or censure. Besides, I think I've earned some sympathy after the day I've had.

It's well-known Lord Endrack wants our story keepers and the dead scientist’s relatives, but now I learn he wants me too. And the only thing to do about it is hide.

The issue is, hiding is not in my nature. Especially when those capable of providing concealment are the ones who hate me the most.

It may be best to take my chances with Lord Endrack. But one thing is certain.

The time has come for a reckoning, and I just may be the one start it. Or maybe I’ll get lucky and not only start the reckoning… but finish it.

. .