The instant the souls merged, Arix woke up on the sacrificial altar.
Still shaken from her recent despair, she took a moment to gather herself.
The priest nearby didn't seem to notice Arix's distant gaze. With a detached expression, he said, "Follow me."
Arix, still dazed, looked at him for a moment before her eyes regained focus. She silently nodded and then glanced back at the bustling crowd below the altar. A sense of relief washed over her as she saw their joyous faces.
This world was at peace, and the people were safe.
Arix smiled softly before turning away and leaving the sacrificial altar. She quietly followed the priest to a room.
He opened a wardrobe and said, "Go inside and transform into your human form. Do you have clothes?"
"Thank you, pontifex. Yes, I do," Arix replied politely.
"Good, go on in. I'll wait outside," he said, his attitude softening at Arix's politeness.
