Time crawled for Leon as the pulsing cocoons filled the meeting hall with a low, steady thrum. The blessing had taken hold the moment the vows were spoken.
Mark worked fast, far faster than anyone expected.
The moment the vows were finalized a shifting circle of runes spread under each squadmate's feet before rising around them like liquid light. Then the light folded in, sealing them inside shimmering cocoons.
Leon eased back into his chair, shoulders finally relaxing.
He knew this part would take time.
Malachi's voice suddenly broke the silence.
"You people aren't from here, are you?"
Leon didn't respond. The beast man studied each cocoon, eyes half-lidded, tail flicking in mild agitation.
Eventually Malachi shook his head.
"It didn't make sense at first," he said quietly. "All that talent talk… but seeing this now? I think I understand."
His gaze moved from cocoon to cocoon, listing what each represented.
