Privilege

In 1911 England, Rick Mann is a penniless, sharp-tempered young man with nothing to his name. After he crosses paths with a demon, he’s offered a chance to change his fate. But as he steps into a world far beyond his own, he finds himself caught in an intense, perilous relationship that tests his very sense of self. * “Take the world. You deserve it, because you found me.” The demon who spoke of a contract bound by the soul began to say something absurd. A penniless mayfly. That was how Rick, who had just been kicked out of his job, thought of his own situation. The demon went on. “If you form a contract with me, I shall grant you a brilliant talent. With it, you will gain gold enough to last a lifetime, a bed of comfort, and fame that will make it feel like the world is yours. The world will always crave your gift, and people will be desperate to worship you. Who would dare look down on you then? A man backed by a demon. No one will be able to hurt you. If there is someone you want to play with, go ahead. Do whatever you want, for there will be no consequences. You will not have to bow down to anyone, and you can dine like a king without ever having to hold your tongue.” Listening to him, Rick began to fall under his spell. Even just imagining it was sweet. Had he not always bristled with thorns, always tense, just to endure the world’s contempt and oppression toward those who had nothing? “Go wild. The world will be your playground.” …Rick had no way of refusing the forbidden fruit the demon held out and tempted him with.