Lisa walked through the forest without looking back.
She followed a narrow path hidden beneath the towering trees until an old shrine came into view.
The abandoned structure stood quietly beneath the moonlight, concealed by thick vines and age-worn stone.
She stepped inside.
As though responding to her presence, the candles lining the walls burst into flame one after another.
Lisa removed the silver ring from her finger and placed it gently on the stone altar before her.
The bruises around her neck slowly faded until no trace of Kallias' grip remained.
Without turning around, she spoke calmly.
"You may come out now."
A figure emerged from the shadows.
Ventimus....