[It takes no time for Joshua to catch up. He strides in just as Ryu picks up the crystal and immediately feels the chill in his chest. It isn’t enough to cause pain, more like a cold breeze than a bitter cold, but the source is unmistakable.]

Be careful. It’s filled with nightmare energy.

[That’s all Joshua is able to discern, but he is at least sure of it.]

[Ryu shouldn’t be handling such an item. Neither of them should be. However, it doesn’t change the fact that bringing it back to someone to study is probably the best move to make. Better than letting it stay here where another animal can pick it up.]

[His tone remains measured, but it carries a subtle urgency.]

We’ll bring it back to the Orkilins. They will know what to do with it.

[He makes a mental note to do so with the stipulation they share their findings with Reverein. He’ll put those diplomatic skills to use and negotiate as necessary.]

Wrap it up as best you can and put it away. The less we are exposed to its power, the better.