449. The Shadow of Roars

Sylvester had a keen sense for detecting conspiracies, both figuratively and literally. He smelled the confusion and doubts among them, but some smelled of sweet aroma, showing their joy in his failure. 

'These fools are digging their own graves.' 

He proceeded to examine the apparatus, opening the crystal holder box to inspect its contents. "The Light Crystal has no Solarium remaining, Your Eminence," he informed Cardinal Robert.

The Cardinal furrowed his brow, feeling uncertain. "But they were freshly taken out of storage. Let me examine the others."

Cardinal Robert opened a small wooden box beside him and peered inside. The crystals sparkled brilliantly within, but as soon as he removed them, he noticed them slowly fading away.