"The Seekers of Light Research Society's plan to turn Moon Bay into light cannot proceed until after the Chosen One Ritual. And we can control whether that ritual takes place, Shade. Don't worry so much."
Luvia reassured him, and Iluna added:
"I'll take this information back to the Church. Since those lunatics from the Seekers of Light Research Society need to set up rituals throughout the city, we have a way to find and destroy them. By now, nearly everyone has shown all their hand cards. What remains is to see whose strategy is better."
Time was of the essence, so everyone split up. Shade did not stay idle either. After tossing out the Crystal Shoes and returning home, he went to Randall River Valley and met the Earth Guardian, who appeared as Thomas Granger, beneath the large tree in the courtyard of the Forgotten Church.
"Sunday through tuesday. The exact time is uncertain."
"I understand."
The Guardian did not explain how he would learn of matters thousands of miles away, but since he was within the Heart of the Earth, he should have a way.
"Judging by your expression, this is troublesome?"
"It is almost certain that an evil god will appear, and there's a high chance I won't be able to defeat it."
The two stood together beneath the tree, gazing at the church's silhouette in the height of summer. With the young ladies Vanessa had left behind maintaining it, the church now had freshly painted outer walls, while low wooden fences enclosed small flowerbeds at the corners.
Neither of them spoke. For the first time in a long while, Shade felt the true atmosphere of summer. After a long time, the aggregate of souls finally asked:
"If necessary, would you sacrifice yourself?"
"No."
Shade answered without hesitation,