[Brightest Star] [6]

"If you can't kill him," he said, smiling, "then kill yourself, and both of them will be safe."

A chilling silence lingered between them. Roen's casual words put Ashlyn in a dilemma.

She could only stare at him before her gaze dropped to the dagger in her hand.

"Ashlyn." A soft whisper echoed in her ears. Her head slowly turned, gazing at Azariah.

He shook his head, his message clear: Don't listen to him.

"Come on, don't take so much time, girl!" Roen said, his patience waning. "Make your choice already!"

"Ahhh..."

An indescribable sound escaped her trembling lips as she looked up at her sister.

Fear gripped her mind, and she slowly gazed back at the dagger.

Taking a deep breath, she looked at Roen firmly, glaring at him. "Why should I believe you?"

"Do you have any other choice?" he asked, tilting his head.

She bit her lip until it bled, her eyes crucifying him.