"Unless?"

“How long has Parisa been gone?”

"Stay safe." she warned, "And don't do anything heroic, okay?"

Jia called for Feo as the line clicked emptily. "Mister? When are the lights coming back?"

“You should find her.” Roo said. “And— It’s hard to tell what warding to take because I can’t be sure what the demon is… a strong flashlight is never a bad idea. Also, you might have incense. You can use that to smoke them out, usually. All the supplies should be in a drawer in the living room.”

“Up the stairs?” Sten asked, but followed. “Why?”

Her gaze drifted back with him, then up the stairs. "Think we can make a break for it?"

She nodded, gripping his arm and making for the staircase. They both slowed as they approached Melat, who pulsed fresh, black blood every few moments. She didn't even look at them.
"Ladies first." she jibed, gesturing for Feofil to make his way up.

"Good question. I'll open the door myself; I have a key. Demons can't do that, they have to be invited in as per the wards in your foyer."

Jia’s eyes got wide as saucers and she ran up the stairs a little more quickly, Remi and Sten following close behind. Feo left them in a daze of luxury, with the boys rubbing their cheeks against Pari’s velvety blankets and gowns, and Jia combing through her jewelry with a starry expression.

Roo fell silent on the other side of the line. "Melat?" she asked after a few minutes. "What did she look like?"