“She will bring us to the deepest parts of hell and none shall return.”

Everyone was quiet as a heartbreakingly gaunt girl with long beautiful tresses spoke aloud.  There were rumors of a loved one killed like their leader.

“None shall return until he who is broken is broken no longer.”  Sarina Roux’s voice was barely above a whisper and yet everyone heard the ominous words.

No one spoke, lowering their gaze respectfully but Sora remained gazing.  Sarina remained in a dreamlike stance, her eyes gazing beyond what anyone could ever see or understand.  At that moment, she dropped the glass cup in her hands, countless shards making tinkling sounds on the bare floor.

Sora finally looked away as the strumming stopped and Julian reached Sarina’s side.  Sora watched brother and sister stand side by side.  The two were an odd pair in the group, to say the least.  Julian rarely spoke and his sister spoke truths no one is ever prepared to hear.

Sora shivered, recalling Sarina’s words.

Julian gently but firmly led his sister back to her room and grabbed a broom. Sora longed to help him but the ever sweet and flawless Julia Kincaid already grabbed the other broom.

“She must not exert herself so.  The appearance of the girl means nothing.” She comforted, touching Julian on the shoulder.

Sora knew the nonchalant touch meant more. It had a certain possessive touch to it.  Sora lowered her gaze as the rest resumed their casual banter.

She felt someone approach her from behind and kiss her chastely on the head.  

“What unrest must I undo this time?”

Sora smiled as Daniel set himself comfortably beside her on the rug.

“Sarina has predicted the end of our kind.” She ruefully answered.

Daniel’s smile remained but his eyes were thoughtful.  “And you?  What do you foresee?”

Sora glanced at him sidelong in surprise.  Sarina was the true seer of the group but Sora could partially see the future herself.  Being used to relying on Sarina’s visions, she was mostly astonished that Daniel sought her opinions.

“Well,” She started, chewing on her bottom lip as she sifted through the haze.  “I see fire and death,” She swallowed, almost drawing blood as she chewed on her lip while she strained to see through the haze that kept her from seeing a more distinct picture.  “But I see hope.  It glimmers too low, but it remains.  For now.”  She softly spoke, glancing at Julian who had resumed his strumming.

Daniel thoughtfully nodded, his hands brought together almost in prayer.  “I believe you’re right.” He quietly returned.  

“The girl will be here shortly.  Be ready to protect her.” He revealed, shocking Sora for the second time in the night.