Chapter 16: A Last-Dream Bet

The leader's fury was replaced with a flash of greed. Was the duplicate stone more powerful than the original one? This presented a novel angle and an unforeseen chance. "Explain further," he murmured in a menacingly low voice. John began a made-up narrative, using aspects from the old text and the paintings and enhancing them with fantastical stories of strength beyond comprehension. He spoke of controlling gravity and using the fabric of reality itself. Fanciful possibilities fascinated the mercenaries as they listened. Marie watched with a combination of fear and fascination as John twisted his complex web of falsehoods. He was a born con man, able to spin complex tales with such conviction that they seemed almost real. It seemed like the leader was buying it. His eyes were fixated on John as he slowly rubbed his chin. "Excellent," he said. "If this knowledge is truly as potent as you say, then perhaps there's value in keeping you alive... for now." John forced a sigh of re