Vogue's eyes shifted toward the stairway exit. He noted with cold clarity that Madam Violet had already moved to position herself directly in front of the stairs during the confrontation, blocking the only escape route.
If Vogue hadn't been observant, he might have missed it. But he saw it clearly now, she was guarding the exit to prevent anyone from fleeing before the trap was fully sprung.
They never intended to let me leave this pavilion alive.
Vogue understood with absolute certainty. Whether I help them kill Marcus or refuse to participate, the outcome for me is the same. Once Marcus is dead, I'm next.
He felt no trust whatsoever toward Sir Collins's friendly offer to join forces. If these people had been willing to include Vogue in their alliance from the beginning, they would have extended that invitation before the expedition started—just as they had done with their other co-conspirators.
