“Together we will teach our billionaire a lesson. A lesson in suffering.”

I shake my head.

“Why not? Look at what he’s made of me. And look at you. Trapped like an animal in a cage, while he siphons your vitality. And why should he dominate? What has he done to deserve his power? Only exercised a willingness to suck blood.”

This gets my hackles up. I can’t let it stand.

“Now wait one minute,” I say. “That’s pure character assassination. He’s a great guy!”

I stop myself before I go on. Really shouldn’t talk to this bird.

“Don’t be a fool,” the hawk says. “Just because you envy him does not make him virtuous. You envy him because there is evil in your own heart. Admit it, Chester. I know what you want. And I can give it to you. Riches beyond your wildest dreams. All I ask in exchange is that you help me with my plan.”