"I'm just a worldly man. There's nothing wrong with seeking a longer life."
Elizabeth met his gaze. "You're right. It's only human to want a longer life to protect what you hold dear. There's nothing wrong with that."
"But the danger... My Lord, you know the situation in the Holy City better than I do. Saint Cyril and his faction are determined to have the Morning Star Bell and will stop at nothing. Coming here now, seeking a blessing that might originate from the Holy Bell, means you're walking right into the heart of their game. You'll become a variable they can't ignore, and possibly a target to be used or eliminated. The risks involved are far beyond ordinary."
Murphy's expression remained calm as he looked at the genuine worry in Elizabeth's eyes.
"Some risks are a price that must be paid. Such is the nature of most choices in this world."
Elizabeth watched him silently. In the shadows, she pursed her lips, as if wanting to say more, but in the end, she said nothing.
