They gathered the subjects of Coalheart in the central square.
Sebas disguised once again as Noctra. He oversaw the arrangement while the guards followed strict orders. "Close the gates early and allow no one to leave."
Lucien and his companions stood ready. What was about to unfold would change everything.
•••
The townsfolk crowded into the square, murmuring among themselves. It had been a long time since they were summoned like this and curiosity rippled through the crowd.
"Did something good happen?"
"Maybe the Madam will bless us again."
"Could this be about those travelers?"
Excitement buzzed in their voices as they tried to guess what awaited them.
But time passed and Noctra never appeared.
Instead, Sebas emerged, dragging forward a grotesque figure. The woman's body hung limp. Her face was twisted and hideous.
Then came Lucien, leading the procession toward the stage.
The murmurs grew louder.
"Who are they?"
"Is this boy trying to play a prank on us?"
