ELIZABETH POV

I watched as he handed me a weapon with a steady hand, his eyes fixed on me expectantly. I hesitated, feeling a surge of conflicting emotions within me. 

Part of me wanted to believe that there might be another way, a path that didn't involve taking a life. But another part understood the seriousness of the situation and the importance of gaining Victor's trust.

Taking a deep breath, I reluctantly reached out and accepted the weapon from Victor's outstretched hand. Its weight felt heavy in my grasp, and I couldn't help but wonder if this moment would forever change who I was.

As I approached the prisoner, his...