Another struggle, more brief and sharp, ended with the opening of the eyes, which sought and remained steadfast to Victor’s, yet without intelligence or animation.
“Do you hear me, Sofia?”
A voice like a sigh rustled on the parted lips, whose stir was imperceptible:
“I hear you....”
“Then heed what I say. My will is your law. You know that?”
Faintly the voice breathed: “Yes.”
“Tell me what it is you know.”
“Your will is my law.”
“You will not resist my will, you cannot. Tell me that.”
“I will not resist your will, I cannot.”