Elissa watched him leave and was left in the dark, the feel of magic vanishing with him without a trace. Atticus whined, not at the darkness but at the situation, turning eyes to her. It was suddenly cold, the hall empty and devoid of all life. It was as if she'd been speaking to herself the entire time.

With a sigh, she stood and drew her sword. Flames licked around the blade, casting enough light for her to find one of the torches in the corner. She lit it and pried it free for her use.

"Come on, boy. Let's find somewhere to rest." They were leaving the moment it grew lighter. This she swore. But she made her way to the other end of the room and to the door, opening it and letting her dog out first. No sense in staying there.