When Carl returned to Black City, it was already several days later.
"Uncle." Within the stronghold, Ayala appeared despondent, forcing a smile. "You've arrived," she managed.
"It's a pity about Hausman," Carl said. "But everyone has their day, sooner or later. You have to accept that. Those who are alive must also live well."
"Yes," Ayala nodded, her eyes still brimming with sorrow. "Old Lev died as well," she said slowly.
"Hmm?" Carl asked, surprised. "What happened?"
"Eve wanted to extract her family's Dharma Seal. Old Lev was old, and his life force ebbed away when the Dharma Seal left his body," Ayala explained. "He… in the end, he didn't make it."
"Actually, the Dharma Seal on Old Lev had already changed hands several times, and it wasn't even clear if it could still be used. Eve was too impatient!"
