Sylvia stared at the book for a very long time. Her fingers trembled slightly not from fear, but from anticipation. Codex Mortifera, the original tome of the first Mortifera, a figure whose very name had long dissolved into the mists of time. The black leather cover felt alive beneath her fingertips, pulsing faintly like a heart that had slept for thousands of years. The faded golden script seemed to call to her, whispering silently, inviting her to open it.
She reached out fully, fingers gripping the edge of the cover. The Death Flame in her chest sang more wildly, like an incomplete victory song. Sofia beside her held her breath, her golden eyes glowing faintly, a mixture of awe and concern.
Then Sylvia pulled.
Nothing happened.
