Chapter 456 Chapter 456
?Nexus, maintaining a composed demeanor, addresses Mike's concern. "Mike, patience is key. We're doing everything we can to find Dracula. Let's focus on working together."
Mike, though reluctant, concedes to Nexus's leadership. "Fine, but we can't keep wandering without a purpose. We need a strategy, and we need it now."
Nexus nods in agreement, "You're right, Mike. Abby, do you know if there's any specific place in the alchemy lab that your grandfather frequents more than others?"
Abby caught between worry and determination, responds, "There's a hidden chamber in the lab. Grandfather spends a lot of time there. It's concealed behind a bookshelf."
Nexus turns to Mike, a hint of reassurance in his eyes. "See, Mike, we have a direction now. Let's head to the alchemy lab and check that hidden chamber. It might hold the answers we seek."
As the trio makes their way through the mansion, Abby's acute awareness picks up on the palpable tension in Mike's voice. An uneasy feeling settles in the pit of her stomach, and she can't help but feel that there's more to the situation than meets the eye.
Unable to contain her growing concern, Abby turns to Nexus, her eyes reflecting the worry etched across her face. "Nexus, what's really going on? Why is Mike so agitated? Is there something you're not telling me about Grandfather?"
Nexus, his gaze filled with a mix of empathy and responsibility, takes a moment before responding. "Abby, your grandfather is facing a serious health issue. It's a delicate matter, and we're doing everything we can to help him. Mike is just worried like we all are."
Abby's eyes widen in alarm, the gravity of Nexus's words sinking in. "Serious health issue? Why didn't Grandfather tell me? What's happening to him?" Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience
Mike, contemplating how much he knows about the book, chooses his words carefully. "The Book of Stones is said to hold ancient knowledge and powerful magic. Unlocking it can reveal secrets beyond our understanding."
In the hushed atmosphere of Mike's home, Nexus leans forward, his eyes fixed on Mike. "Mike, I need you to be completely honest with me. Tell me everything you know about the Book of Stones and its connection to whatever is going on in the city right now."
A contemplative silence hangs in the room, a prelude to the revelation that Mike is about to share. He furrowed his brow and took a deep breath, weighing his words before finally breaking the stillness.
"I've read an ancient book and have heard whispers, Nexus," Mike begins, his gaze focused on a distant point as memories resurface. "I have heard some stories of an ancient alchemy, one that supposedly transforms individuals into a state that's neither fully human nor vampire. It's said to be immensely powerful, unleashing terror wherever it manifests."
Nexus's interest deepens, and he interjects with a question, "Alchemy that transforms people? But that's not what alchemy is known for. It's about refining pills to build strength, heal the wounded and sick, enhance the body, replenish mana, and have the highest control over the flame. How could it be connected to this Book of Stones and the undead?"
Mike nods, acknowledging the skepticism he once harbored. "You're right, Nexus. I was skeptical too, until I heard rumors of Necromancers. The first person who could refine corpses and control the dead was dubbed a Necromancer. It made me reconsider the myths, and I couldn't dismiss the possibility that Dracula might have unlocked this forbidden alchemy."
Nexus, absorbing the information, continues to probe for clarity. "So, you believe Dracula has harnessed this ancient alchemy? The same one mentioned in connection to the Book of Stones?"
Mike nods gravely. "It's a leap of faith, Nexus, but given what we know about Necromancers and the recent events, I can't rule out the possibility. The alchemy to manipulate life and death might be more than just a myth."
"We have to visit Dracula and interrogate him regarding this," Mike suggests.
"Yes, let us do that," Nexus replied as he stood up not wanting to waste a minute.
The decision is made, and Nexus and Mike find themselves on a nocturnal journey to Dracula's house. The moon casts a silvery glow on the winding path, and the night air is filled with a sense of urgency.