Arianna's POV

My feet kept trembling with great fear as Father led me towards an inner chamber.

Ralph grabbed my hand softly, a soft smile sitting on his face.

I took a deep breath, feeling relieved to have him by my side.

“You're going to get through this. I believe in you,” he whispered into my ear.

With a soft pat on my back, he allowed me to walk down the remaining steps alone while he stood, watching me slowly get pulled into the river by Father.

“I want you to keep your ...