“You're sure this is the only way?" Sophia scribbled in the frost-laced dirt.
Caesar nodded, eyes fixed on the looming silhouette ahead.
Moonfall Monastery.
Carved into the cliffs like a forgotten god's jawbone, its alabaster towers glittered under the Harvest Moon. Candles flickered behind narrow windows. Bells tolled low and slow—funeral tones meant to lull.
“Inside that reliquary," he said, “is the only artifact known to contain spirit overload."
Sophia adjusted the monk's robe over her shoulders.
“Crystal coffin," Caesar added. “Said to absorb malignant magic like salt draws blood."
**And you think it can pull mine?** she signed.
“I think it might save you."
“And if it kills me?"
His eyes softened. “Then I'll follow."
Sophia gave him a look that said: *Stop being dramatic.*
