Chapter 174

Amelia's POV

I watched, silent, as he selected several items: a small pouch of salt, a crystal vial filled with a liquid that shimmered even in the dim light, and a bundle of dried herbs tied with a red string. Each item was chosen with deliberate care, Gonzales's hands steady and sure.

"Salt to purify and protect," he murmured, almost to himself as he placed the items on his desk. "The essence of moonflower, for clarity and truth. And bloodroot, to break through barriers and reveal what is hidden."

I swallowed hard, my curiosity warring with a sudden, inexplicable fear. "And... you believe this will make Isaac speak?"

Gonzales met my gaze, his eyes reflecting a complexity of emotions. "It will give us a better chance of uncovering the truth. But these rituals, Amelia, they are not to be taken lightly. They require precision, respect for the forces we're invoking."

He began to gather the items, placing them carefully into a small, leather-bound case. "Come, we must prepare the space p