Chapter 24 -24-Lost Marina
A pallor crept across Marina's face. Her fingertips trembled slightly, but before she could gather herself, Sister Merlina's voice continued—unyielding and grim.
"Prince Daniel's labyrinth clearance was recorded by a student using a memory crystal," she said, her tone serious. "I watched the footage myself."
"His movements were rushed—very rushed. As if... he was worried about time running out. Or worse—his life running out."
"Perhaps that's the only reason he managed to achieve such a ridiculous one-second clear time."
"Think about it carefully, Your Grace... isn't it only Forbidden Power that could produce that kind of result?"
Marina lowered her head. Her heart ached, her eyes heavy with sorrow and loss.
"So what you're saying, Sister Merlina... is that Prince Daniel is burning his own life force?"
"If that's true... then he won't live for long."
Sister Merlina didn't answer immediately. She shook her head slowly, her expression darkening with something deeper—worry... and fear.
"I'm afraid... it may be even worse than you think."
"A power like that doesn't just take HP," she said gravely. "To unleash a Forbidden Power that potent, the price might include more—a part of one's soul, or even limbs, or memories."