Liseria stood motionless for a moment, her eyes fixed on Elmyra's smiling corpse. For a fleeting instant, it was as if time itself refused to move forward. Then, the spectral shape behind Liseria began to dissolve, its outline shivering like mist under morning light. With its departure, the radiant blue glow faded from Liseria's eyes, until nothing remained.
She collapsed to her knees, the weight of power too great for her body to bear. Blood trickled from her nose and mouth, painting the ground beneath her in dark stains. Even with the support of every soul who bore the name Kaldras, the force she had channeled had far exceeded her limits.
And then, she fainted.
From the sky, Selene descended silently, catching her daughter in her arms. She looked down at the unconscious girl, her expression a strange mixture of sorrow and pride. Then she smiled, softly, almost sadly, and vanished, taking her daughter with her into the wind.
