"He found something weird. One of his old commission records was marked with a strange symbol—it looked like a musical note wrapped in thorns."
Kane's blood ran cold. He exchanged a meaningful look with Cyrus.
"When was this commission from?" Cyrus asked, his voice carefully neutral.
"About three months ago. A woman wanted a special carrying case designed for some kind of crystal artifact. Paid in cash, gave a fake name." Takeo handed them their ice cream.
"Dad said that she specifically mentioned the need for it to muffle sound."
Kane's hand instinctively moved toward his pendant, his mind racing.
"Takeo," Kane said urgently, "do you still have that record?"
"I'm not sure if Dad kept it, but I can take you guys to the shop to look for it. He's probably home by now, but I have the spare keys."
Takeo wiped down the counter.
"Just let me close up here first—enjoy your ice cream while I get everything sorted."
Kane started to protest. "We can wait outside—"
