"So this is the true power of the black flames…" Balthazar whispered. His expression had finally turned solemn. "Just as the reports claimed."
He reached into his spatial ring and took out a small jar. Its surface was engraved with ancient demonic inscriptions. He ran his finger across the carvings, and the jar trembled.
A powerful suction force erupted from it.
Almost instantly, the black flames around Mariona began to detach from her skin and flow into the jar like streams of dark smoke.
Even Max paused, surprised.
He had not expected Balthazar to possess something capable of absorbing that flame. His eyes narrowed slightly as he watched the flames swirl into the container.
When the last trace of black flame vanished, Mariona collapsed to her knees, gasping. Her body was still damaged from the flames, but she had escaped death for the moment.
"She must die," Max said quietly.
He didn't hesitate.
He drew his sword.
A single stroke cut through the air.
Swish!
