Nolan paused near a glowing crystal formation, its translucent surface pulsing with an eerie blue light. He kept a careful distance, motioning for the others to do the same.
"The crystals are how the Archivist feeds," he explained, adjusting his glasses. "Each one stores memories—fragments of knowledge harvested from anyone who touches them."
Xavier studied the crystals without approaching. "So these are dangerous."
"Not in the way you're thinking." Nolan shook his head. "The Archivist isn't malicious. It just... gathers. Like a collector adding specimens to a vast museum."
"What happens when someone touches a crystal?" Margaret asked, keeping her voice low.
Nolan's expression darkened. "They contribute to the collection. The crystal extracts memories—usually starting with the most emotionally significant ones." His hand hovered near a smaller crystal. "Those who resist often lose more than those who offer willingly."
