Ten minutes later, the doors to the place of sacrifice were pushed open.
The Silent Priest slowly walked in. Her plain white gown trailed across the floor, and the rabbit-fur shawl over her shoulders swayed faintly with each step, making her already graceful figure seem even more elegant.
She had not come alone. Floating behind her was a white snake wearing a pink nurse's cap. Its tail was curled into a neat spiral as it gripped the front rail of a gurney, huffing and puffing as it dragged the wheeled bed inside.
Two unconscious figures lay on the bed.
"One is a magicless juvenile Panas Succubus. The other... looks like a dragon hatchling." The Silent Priest stopped roughly five meters before the High Priest, a faint smile curving her lips. Her tone carried just the right amount of respect, yet concealed a touch of casualness. "Both possess elemental talent and are currently anesthetized. I'll have to trouble you with the rest, High Priest."
The High Priest glanced at the two unconscious figures on the bed. "Have their backgrounds been investigated?"
The Silent Priest lifted a hand and brushed the felt draped over her arm, her fingertips idly passing through its fuzz. "You've become increasingly cautious lately, High Priest. Are you afraid of getting tangled up in some troublesome matter?"
Her tone carried a teasing, half-smiling edge, while her eyes probed him.
"Don't ask what you shouldn't ask." The High Priest's gaze remained indifferent. "Also, during this period, try to engage in fewer silent acts. Consider that a reminder from your teacher."
"Teacher? I don't want to be your student."
The High Priest was wholly unconcerned by the Silent Priest's attitude. "Then consider it advice from your superior."
"...I understand."
After a pause, the Silent Priest pointed at the two on