"You are aware that she will never pardon you," Victor's voice sounded like poisoned silk.
Aria whirled in surprise. She had been standing on the forest's edge, her arms folded firmly across her chest as though to protect herself from the harsh reality that was being revealed to her. Victor was leaning against a tree, his face unassuming, but his eyes were full of terrible purpose.
"Victor," she said bluntly, her defenses instantly raised. "Why are you in this place?"
He pushed down from the tree and walked slowly toward her. "I come to give you a chance. One that is advantageous to both of us.
Unimpressed, Aria arched her eyebrow. "I don't think our objectives are the same."
“Yeah, but we do,” Victor shot back, pausing a few paces from her. "You wish to keep your sister safe. I wish
