[Lost] Continued background

[akonken.livejournal.com]

She watched with satisfaction as the child's body twisted and hardened, saving it face for last so she could savour its pained expression. No longer would it say its please-and-thank-yous, no longer would it charm the other servants with its pretty smile.

Finally the face went, although she - in a flash of inspiration that delighted her - left its mind intact. How could it be a punishment otherwise? "Think about what you've done," she said in her voice like silver bells. "Think about it, and when I am ready to consider forgiving you, I will receive your apology."

And she left the tree there, let it think and feel, and waited.