"Think about it,"
Upon seeing Rey's change in expression, Serena began to press further.
"With your power added to ours, we could reshape this entire kingdom. No more slavery. No more oppression. A world where Cursed Ones stand equal to everyone else."
The offers hung in the air, tempting and idealistic.
Then Augustus spoke, and his voice was nothing like the arrogant young noble who had treated Rey as disposable property.
"Please," Augustus whispered, tears streaming down his face. "Please don't help them. I... I know I treated you terribly. I know I was cruel and thoughtless and everything they're saying is true."
His voice cracked.
"But I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry."
Rey's eyes narrowed slightly, genuine surprise flickering across his features.
"I didn't understand what I was doing,"
Augustus continued, his words tumbling out in desperate confession.
