The theater was prepared once again.
No music. No wine. Just soft light and respectful silence.
The nine witches sat in the same semicircle as the night before.
Otrho remained standing, discreet, by one of the side columns.
Kael entered through the heavy curtains.
This time, he wore a dark cloak with the insignia of the Command Clan on his chest.
He stepped into the center and stood before them.
— Before anything else, — he began — we need to make the rules clear.
He looked each of them in the eyes.
— First rule: an immortal must never reveal their nature to a profane.
No mortal can know who we are or what we do.
Second: an immortal cannot kill a profane — nor another immortal — unless in self-defense.
Third: no traces must be left behind.
Nothing that could disrupt humanity's path or expose what we protect.
He took two steps forward.
— Now, about what is being proposed.
The witches remained silent, attentive.
— If you accept, you will be allowed to live here in the Command Base, and work in direct partnership with me, supporting missions, base operations, and preservation strategies.
— You will remain what you are: the Witch Clan, Sam Pukla.
You will not be part of the Command Clan — that clan is mine, and it is singular.
But our alliance will be formal.
He paused.
— You will be compensated, just as I am.
What the League provides to me will be shared with you, according to the missions and duties you take on.
— Your contract will not be with the League, but with me.
With the Command — not with the circles of the High Chamber.
He planted his feet firmly.
— If you accept, you'll begin with a one-year basic training, to understand the foundations of jumping, time layers, anchor points, and return protocols.
After that, we will carry out two missions together.
Then, we'll sit again — and decide if this alliance continues indefinitely.
Silence followed.
Then, Helena spoke — calm and firm:
— We accept.
The others nodded with quiet conviction.
Kael didn't smile — but his slight bow showed respect.
He extended his hand, palm facing upward.
— Let this pact be honored.
We are not one clan.
But we will walk side by side.
The flames along the theater walls burned a little brighter — as if they heard and approved.
The pact was made.