Valerius's voice was low, steady, but tinged with something rare, unease. His crimson eyes narrowed as he looked at Chloe trembling with rage.

"I know what you've remembered," he said at last. "How I fed on you at the mansion... how I made you forget afterward. Yes, that was me. It's part of the transformation. Once it begins, the mind recalls every manipulation. I am... sorry for that, Chloe."

His gaze softened briefly before hardening again. "But this thing you accuse me of... I don't ...