“Chill-less”

“It’s time.”

The deep voice booms around the chamber.

This is probably when a chill should run down my spine. But it doesn’t. My spine remains chill-less.

It’s probably because I have absolutely no idea what’s going on. I mean yeah, sure, the voice is echoey and the words are spooky, but what does it mean? “It’s time”? Time for what? Dinner? That’s not scary.

“Step forward,” the voice commands.

I don’t. Instead, I say, “Give me one good reason why I should listen to you.”

Silence. For a moment, at least.

Until spikes jump from the wall behind me and begin pushing toward me.

“Good reason,” I squeak and step forward.

My spine is no longer chill-less.