Huh? The Research Director? Why on earth would the Research Director be here of all places? [Meaning... Yes, that’s it! Meaning arises from difference. Information is born from these ‘differences’ and distinctions. If we filter out the meaningless and retain only that which holds significance...]

What did Athanas realize? Is Callister dangerous? Should I be worried about what he might find out? I couldn’t resist sneaking a peek at Callister, only to catch him staring right back, eyes locked on us like a hawk.

He can’t even say who he made the promise to? I racked my brain, trying to piece together the clues buried in Athanas’ cryptic silence. Just a few hours ago, when he handed me the reliquary, he wasn’t this haggard. What could have happened in such a short time?

Isn’t there usually a satisfying *Ding!* when you acquire a new skill in a game? I could’ve sworn that in Conclude, every time the cult leader unit gained an ability, that iconic sound would ring out.

Athanas does have some romantic comedy heroine-like qualities - at least, based on this totally made-up setting. It roughly goes like this: Athanasia is this insanely talented holy knight who pretty much makes everyone else green with envy. Her only sanctuary from the relentless admiration and jealousy is an old, deserted library where none of her classmates ever step foot in.

“Why won’t you use it?” he finally managed, his face twisted with confusion. “Was this our last chance?”

I gave the reliquary a gentle shake, but there was no rattling sound from inside. It had some heft to it, so it couldn’t be empty, but I was too chicken to open it and take a peek.