Arthur leaves Theo's room carrying the head-sized clear heartstone while whistling. His heart is light, his mind is clear, and he's very happy.
Julian, seeing this, frowns.
"Look at you, all happy and whistling. Is Thea awake? And what is that?"
Arthur smiles at Julian.
"This is supposed to be the azure heartstone, but Thea said Aldriana absorbed all of the energy, turning it into a useless crystal. And yes, Thea is awake. And yes, I've talked to her about Aldriana and her conditions."
"Well done, Mr. Happy Face. What did she say? And what? Aldriana absorbed all the energy out of the heartstone? Art, that's impossible! Have you ever known a heartstone to turn into a useless crystal after its energy is gone?"
"She said ok, and no, I've never known a heartstone that does that."
Julian keeps nodding while Arthur is explaining, but then he stops.
"Wait a minute. Something's not right. You said… you've told Thea about Aldriana's conditions?"
Arthur nods.
