Neonidas sought the last traces of resistance in Elenora's eyes. This was the moment his prey was closest to breaking—storms raged within her, but outwardly she still held herself like a princess. She tried to keep her head held high, but her breaths quickened, and her shoulders began to tremble.
Celeste, on the other hand, was alert as a cat. Her eyes were still those of a hunter who fought, but her instincts had already whispered to her: No escape. The end of resistance was only more pain.
Neonidas cast one last look at both women. Then, with a dark smile, he stepped back and extended his hand.
"Come."
The word cut through the air in the room like a blade. Celeste's eyes widened, and Elenora's face paled. But neither of them moved.
Neonidas waited patiently.
Silence.
The battle of mind, will, and power would conclude here.
