The light from the circle surged upward in a pillar of violet flame that didn't burn but consumed.
The three bodies began to dissolve, flesh turning to ash, ash turning to nothing, essence pulled into the ritual.
The figure on the throne watched in silence.
The brown-haired woman knelt again, knife still dripping in her hand.
"It is done," she said.
The otherworldly voice spoke once more.
"Good. The first seal weakens. Continue the work."
"As you command."
The violet flame died completely, leaving only silence and the acrid smell of burned essence.
The figure on the throne shifted slightly, that overwhelming presence filling the room once more.
"You may go," the otherworldly voice intoned.
The hooded figures rose as one, bowing deeply before filing toward the door. Their footsteps echoed in perfect unison, disciplined, obedient.
But as the brown haired girl moved to follow—
"Elena. Stay."
