The mother and daughter followed the narrow street until it opened onto a broad path beside the lake. Nathan remained some distance behind them, passing beneath the branches of old willow trees as more people joined the path from neighboring streets. Some carried flowers or small parcels wrapped in cloth, while others walked empty-handed, talking quietly as they approached a flight of pale stone steps.
At the top stood a gate overlooking the water, its pillars painted a deep blue beneath a sweeping tiled roof. Beyond it, lanterns hung along an open walkway, and Nathan caught the sound of a bell drifting through the evening air.
He slowed as the shrine came fully into view.
It was magnificent.
