YOUNG WOMAN: [takes a step back, clutching the light closer] That’s okay. I’m supposed to keep it.
GLUTTONY: [with a full mouth] Who told you a thing like that?
YOUNG WOMAN: [holding the light protectively, her voice firmer now] I… I just know. I was given this light to carry. It’s not for you or anyone else. I’m just supposed to keep it bright and burning. GLUTTONY: [laughing between bites, crumbs spilling onto the floor] Not for us? That doesn’t seem very fair. Can’t you share just a little? Enough to fill the emptiness inside? ANGER: [slamming his fist into the table] Enough of this nonsense! Don’t let them talk circles around you. Say no if you mean it! Or… maybe you don’t know what you mean. You’re scared, aren’t you? Don’t even know why you’re holding onto that thing.
YOUNG WOMAN: I’m not scared. I just… I don’t—
LUST: [approaching Young Woman] Don’t worry, darling. They’re just fools. They could never understand you like I do. [begins to braid Young Woman’s hair] And I think you can understand me, too. You have that beautiful light, but I have nothing. I was never given such a precious gift. Truly, in all my life, I’ve never seen anything more worthy of affection. Could I just hold it for a moment? YOUNG WOMAN: [pulling away from Lust’s touch] I… no, I don’t think that’s a good idea. I’m not supposed to let it go. LUST: Oh, darling, you wound me. I would never hurt something so precious. [she glances at the others] I’m not like them. They are here to take, to ruin you. But me? I’m only here to help, to protect you.
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