Mea culpa! I forgot to add Chapter 6 to the queue last night.
There actually is a Harry Chapin song that could serve as a soundtrack for this chapter, called "Mercenaries."
I think, however, "The Mayor of Candor Lied," about a small-town leader who uses his power to not only get what he wants, but to make sure others don't get what he doesn't want them to have, may be a better fit.
The good news is, while Annie is in a dark, bewildering, even repulsive tunnel, she is about to see a light at the end of it.
Incidentally, I would love to get feedback. I see the statistics, so I know there are people out there following along. But on a site like this, feedback is the only currency an author earns.
Have a good first full week of 2026, everyone.