Thalia continued preparing.
She drew additional symbols around the altar. Placed crystals at specific points. Arranged components in patterns that made Nicholas's skin crawl just looking at them.
"This is death magic," Thalia explained. "The kind that should not be used lightly. The kind that corrupts everyone who touches it. But it's also the only magic powerful enough to reach into the Veil and pull souls back. So we use it. And we accept the consequences."
She glanced at Victoria. "You're already corrupted from the blood magic you used. This will make it worse. You understand that?"
"I understand," Victoria said.
"And you, Nicholas," Thalia said, looking at him. "Once your soul separates from your body, there's no going back. Even if you change your mind. Even if you find Lilith and decide you want to live after all. The ritual will be in motion. The only ending is her resurrection or both of you consumed. Do you understand?"
"I understand," Nicholas said.
