The moment the scepter struck the ground, the runes carved along its body began to glow.
A deep crimson light spread outward in slow circles, crawling across the stone floor like living veins. The chamber trembled faintly as the air grew heavier. The faint blue crystals embedded in the walls flickered under the pressure, their light wavering as if struggling to breathe.
The two demons hanging against the wall suddenly jerked awake.
Their bloodshot eyes widened in panic as they sensed something far worse than pain approaching.
"No… no…" one of them rasped, struggling weakly against the enchanted chains that bound his wrists and ankles. "What are you doing…?"
The other demon tried to roar, but it came out as a broken cough. Blood dripped from his lips and stained the floor beneath him.
Ethan stood still, his hand resting lightly on the scepter.
"Mareti," he repeated softly.
The crimson glow intensified.
