We spend another hour discussing the knowledge we gathered. During that time, I try to piece together what happened with Leaf and Lizard since they entered the castle. Sadly, Leaf is as unhelpful as Lizard, despite being much more cooperative.
"Please, don't be so frustrated about this, Miss Alvarez," he says with a smile. "It's hard to remember things here. Even harder to remember the right things, and do it in order. This is just the way this place is—but it doesn't really matter. I just hope that Lizard didn't suffer much from this place. He is the less magic-sensitive one of our pair, but I always said it's what made him more vulnerable to it. In the end, though, I know he would be alright. So would all of us."
I sigh. "I wish I could have your optimism."
Leaf shrugs. "It's not optimism, Miss Alvarez. Just my memories."
