Chapter 154

Day two.

"Maurice, Maurice?"

The moment morning broke, Leana went to the place she'd agreed to meet Maurice.

It was said to be the library of an old monastery, but it was cramped, and there weren't many books to speak of.

Still, a book lying on the desk caught Leana's eye.

On the worn, hardbound cover, a title was written in red letters.

"Isn't this... the Ancient Language?"

Leana reached out to turn the pages, but—

"Don't touch that!"

At Maurice's cold voice, Leana flinched and pulled her hand back.

Behind Maurice, who had come closer to her, she saw three priests in white vestments.

"Maurice, I feel like... I somehow know this book."

At that single remark, both Maurice's face and the faces of the priests who'd followed him brightened.

"You know this book?"

"Yes."

"That can't be. This was kept hidden even within the Holy See, in its…