Maxine understood the underlying message in Tobias’ words—he was about to give up on James.

Maxine had an idea.

She suggested Tobias reveal the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside’s Edge and the meridian diagram to the other three families. Following that, the other three families would also have to bring their paintings so that they could gather all four paintings in the same place. This could resolve the conflict between the families while allowing her a chance to see all four paintings together.

However, Tobias refused.

Putting the theft of the Johnstons’ painting aside, the chances of the other two families revealing their paintings were next to none. After all, they had been guarding them for thousands of years.

Humans were selfish. The same went for Tobias. He did not wish for others to lay their eyes on the meridian diagram.

“Tell James he’ll have to leave in two days.” Saying that, he turned to leave.

Maxine frowned and turned to look at the artificial hill behind her. T