Worry flickered in Lucille's eyes as she stared at Ashrik, whose smile had faltered. His expression shifted as a heavy thought shadowed his features.
For a moment, a weighty silence dampened the initial joy from a successful cultivation. The breeze howled, rustling the leaves above them. Dappled shadows swayed on their faces.
Lucille blinked, her heart trembling as she shakily asked, "What's wrong, Brother Ash?"
Ashrik exhaled slowly, realizing that the change in his reaction had concerned her. His gaze dropped to the ground between them, where the Stone's core was lying.
Whummm—
For some reason, the hum of its energy seemed to ring louder. It pulsated, still tugging at their cores but without any trace of coercion, as if it was being cordial.
"Lucy, things might not stay this easy," he began, voice burdened with guilt. "There's a chance it'll take longer than that."
Lucille tilted her head; realization dawned on her. "Do you mean..."
