The temple of Heliana rose tall and solemn, its spires carved with runes that glowed faintly in the dim torchlight. The air smelled of incense and aged stone, the kind of silence that carried both reverence and unease.
Kaen's eyes widened as he stepped past the threshold, tilting his head back to take in the towering murals.
"Woah… it's my first time seeing a temple like this."
Rael clicked his tongue, his emerald gaze sharp.
"What a bumpkin."
Kaen spun toward him, fists shaking.
"What did you say!!"
Khael moved between them with practiced ease, placing a steady hand on Kaen's shoulder.
"Calm down, calm down."
Lira pressed her fingers to her temple and sighed softly.
"Every time…"
Meanwhile, Juno Arkai walked in behind the others. His robe of faded Taishin cloth swayed with his steps, black undershirt tucked neatly under gray pants. His sleeves were rolled up, his hands bound in thin fighting wraps. No badge of office. No gleaming ornaments.
