As the last words of the ritual left her mouth the world seemed to change. Sarah screamed, unable to move of her own accord, she could smell the smoke at first then the flames appeared.

The flames surrounded her, their heat prickling then scorching her skin, singeing her hair. Elinor could only look on, a twinge of guilt entered her, this final sacrifice was worst than the others. But didn't Sarah deserve it? Surely she did? But the doubts entered her heart.

Of course there was nothing she could do, not now. If she even tried she would only join Sarah in her suffering. It would be over soon, over and she could finally regain her life.