Round 9

In the abandoned church, Halie's voice cut through the anticipation, her words a gentle rebuke to the fervor that threatened to overwhelm them all. "Sisters—let us pause for clarity and purpose," she said, her eyes moving between Hera's hopeful expression and Silra's cool assessment. Jeane's ritual had woven a spell of transformation around Hera, but it was Halie who now anchored them in reality. As the cleric stepped forward, her gaze locked onto Silra, seeking to draw out any lingering doubts or concerns.

Meanwhile, Abby watched with rapt attention, her eyes darting between the other women as she struggled to understand the ritual's purpose and her own place within it. The air vibrated with tension, but Halie's words provided a steady beacon, illuminating the path forward amidst the swirling storm of desire. As Jeane stepped closer, her wings unfurling in a way that made Hera's breath catch, Silra's detachment faltered for an instant, her eyes narrowing in a fleeting expression of concern.