The Sinful Pact

Chapter 18: The First Step

The next morning, I woke with a new resolve. I knew Alistair would be watching me, testing me, but I couldn't let his threats control me anymore. I had to find a way to outsmart him, to use what little power I had against his overwhelming force.

I spent the day observing the guards, noticing their routines, the way they moved through the mansion. Every detail mattered. I needed to be ready for any chance to escape, to gather information that could help me and Dante.

As evening fell, I managed to slip away from the watchful eyes of the guards, finding a quiet corner of the mansion where I could be alone. My wrist burned, the mark on my skin feeling like a brand, a reminder of Alistair's hold on me. But I ignored the pain, focusing on the plan Dante and I had started.

I whispered to myself, going over the steps we'd need to take. First, we'd have to weaken Alistair's control, to loosen the bond just enough to give us a fighting chance. Then we'd need to locate the artifact again, the source of his power. Without it, he'd be vulnerable.

The sound of footsteps nearby snapped me out of my thoughts. I pressed myself against the wall, holding my breath as a guard passed by. My heart pounded, but I forced myself to stay calm. I couldn't afford to be caught now.

When the guard disappeared down the hall, I exhaled slowly, relief flooding through me. I was taking a risk, but it was a necessary one. Alistair might be powerful, but he wasn't invincible. And as long as I had Dante by my side, I had a chance.

I returned to my room, my mind racing with ideas and possibilities. Alistair thought he had control over me, that I would eventually surrender. But he was wrong. I was done being his pawn.

I lay in bed that night, feeling a newfound strength. I was ready to fight, to reclaim my life, even if it meant risking everything. Because freedom was worth any price.