Deep in the forest…
Inside the crooked witch's house…
Naomi stood within a massive ritual circle carved into the wooden floor.
Candles surrounded her in perfect symmetry.
Strange runes glowed faintly beneath her feet.
Emilie watched from the doorway.
"Are you sure the timing is right?"
Naomi smiled faintly.
"Yes."
She lifted her wand.
Purple energy spiraled upward toward the ceiling.
"The Gate cannot open all at once," Naomi explained.
"It must be weakened first."
She pointed her wand toward a crystal sphere resting in the center of the circle.
Inside the sphere was a glowing image of the mansion's underground Gate.
A massive sealed doorway covered in ancient runes.
Naomi whispered a spell.
The runes flickered.
The seal trembled slightly.
Just a tiny fracture.
But it was enough.
"The ritual has begun," Naomi said softly.
Emilie folded her arms.
"And the four students?"
Naomi's eyes gleamed.
"They are part of the key."
