The Matriarchs rose from their seats, their movements slow and deliberate, as if weighed down by the unbearable gravity of what had just transpired. One by one, they filed out of the chamber, their expressions ranging from solemn contemplation to barely contained revulsion.
Vixen and Gabriela followed in their wake, the haunting echo of Sofia's final, agonized screams still ringing in their ears. The ritual had been a brutal, unforgiving act of judgment, and Vixen couldn't shake the gnawing feeling that the Matriarchs had not only condemned Sofia's soul, but a part of their own as well.
The air outside the chamber was crisp and cool, a stark contrast to the oppressive tension that had permeated the inner sanctum. Vixen took a deep, steadying breath, trying to clear her mind of the horrific images that continued to plague her.
