Professor Nero reappeared through his own spatial movement, looking somewhat battered but undefeated. His eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation, layers of mana constructs already forming around him in preparation to resume the battle.
"We shall retreat for now," the Cardinal decided, creating another spatial rift. "This... encounter has yielded sufficient data."
Nero's jaw tightened, clearly dissatisfied with allowing the Covenant members to escape, but practicality overrode vengeance. His priority remained the safety of his students, many of whom lay grievously wounded throughout the hotel.
Shadows coalesced around the Cardinal and Lyra, preparing to transport them from the battlefield. Before the darkness enveloped her completely, Lyra's gaze fixed on Arthur one final time, her smile carrying equal parts fascination and anticipation.
"Until next time, Arthur Nightingale," she whispered as the shadows claimed them.
