Dr. NoSleep (host)

With little fanfare, I open my robe to show the long blade strapped to my waist.

Anderle nods with appreciation and respect.

Of all the brethren, he knew I was the one who could handle the job, who could risk life and limb to achieve our goal.

May I?

Anderle asks.

I nod and unstrap the dagger from my body.

It is heavy, I say as he takes it in his hands.

He chuckles.

Oh my, yes, it is.

Then Anderle turns and holds the sacrificial dagger above his head, the holy word Wusthof stamped prominently on its blade.

Brothers, it is here.

Tonight, we make a sacrifice that will ensure our survival for generations to come.

As our brothers before us have done, and our brothers after us will do as well.

There is a mighty cheer from the brethren.

Anderle smiles at me.

Come, Brother Cornelius.

Join us in the circle so the sacrifice may be complete.

I nod and do just that.

pushing in between Edgar and Cartwright.

Anderle takes his prominent place, keeping the dagger held above him, making sure our eyes, our focus, our power are directed to it and only it.