A few seconds passed.
The dust from the sudden departure had barely settled when the air in the center of the hall warped violently.
Hum.
Space tore open.
Several tall figures emerged from the void, their boots touching the scorched floorboards with silent grace. They wore majestic robes woven from silver thread that shimmered like moonlight, and their faces were obscured by hoods that radiated a cold, oppressive pressure.
They immediately fanned out, their senses expanding to the very limits of the hall, scanning every corner, every shadow, every lingering trace of mana.
One of them, the leader, knelt by the blackened remains of the conduction circle. He ran a gloved hand over the ash, his fingers trembling slightly as he felt the residual energy.
"..."
He stood up slowly, dusting off his hands.
"He is gone."
He glanced at his companions and shook his head grimly.
