"Freedom is something that isn't an option," Belial said. "And one becomes accustomed to the burden of filling a role. We're all part of a larger whole -- or at least the tripe that's fed to us."

He gestured in circles with his cigarette, trailing smoke. "If I find a way out, I'll find a way out. I've been in it long enough that I know how to keep my head down and my ass covered. Now that, I value -- not getting mauled for saying the wrong thing at the wrong time."