Blazing flames continuously surged from the scorched earth. One by one, the burning Lost Souls howled in agony, writhing on the ground. The fire did not kill them instantly; each soul had to endure a process of torment from ignition to death. The duration depended on the strength of the soul—sometimes just over ten minutes, sometimes several hours.
Watching the Lost Souls suffer in the inferno, Isabelle Frost and I stood atop a crimson stone at the heart of this blazing little hell.
"Once a person commits a crime, they must enter Hell after death to suffer torment. Only when their sentence is served can they reincarnate."
Isabelle Frost spoke, and I responded with a hum. I seemed to understand what she intended. Now that Hell was under her control, she could change everything. The laws of Hell, evolving slowly through old and new generations, were hers to command. Not far away, more than a dozen Hell's Registrars gathered toward us and knelt down as soon as they arrived.
"Lady Yi, is there anything you need us to do?"
Isabelle Frost shook her head.
"Watch over the Lost Souls. One week is the limit—report to the Junior Registrar. Understood? If even one is missing, one of you will take their place!"
After a series of fearful bows, the group of Hell's Registrars dispersed. I couldn't help but smile. Now, Isabelle Frost had become the ruler of Hell, but the impression she once gave me was nothing like that of a true authority.
"What's wrong? Do you find it strange?"
Isabelle Frost sat down. I nodded.