After Eryon finished speaking to Ariv, his deep voice echoing through the grand hall, he gave a final nod of approval. The two gods—Eryon Thalyss and Kaivara Dravaris—along with Queen Lyra Senra, turned and walked toward the towering thrones at the end of the chamber. The crowd hushed instantly.
They ascended the steps, their robes and armor shimmering under the light from the crystalline dome above. Taking their seats, they resumed the court, hearing the remaining petitions and disputes from citizens and commanders alike. The air was heavy with respect; few dared raise their voices in the presence of such power.
When the hearings concluded, Queen Lyra stood gracefully, her silver crown catching the light.
> "People of Atherion," she declared, "we shall now walk among you, as tradition demands—so that rulers and ruled may remember that we are bound by the same realm."
The crowd erupted in applause, the sound like waves crashing against marble shores.
The Queen stepped down from the dais, followed by the gods and the Seven Veil Holders—Dareth Solvarn, Seliora Myrrvain, Kaelen Dravaris, Sylas Pyrrvain, Eryndor Thalyss, Maelis Frostborne, and Corvan Umbraxis. Behind them came Ariv Senra, Neel Lunaris, Vaishnavi Veydris, Rohit Solvarn, Rudraen, and other high-ranking members of Atherion's order.
The grand doors opened, revealing the city in its radiant glory. As they moved forward, the citizens poured into the streets to see them. Children climbed onto balconies for a better view, shopkeepers abandoned their stalls, and elderly citizens bowed low as the procession passed.
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The Four Districts of Atherion
The tour began in Solvarn District—the center of governance. Grand marble halls rose like mountains, and golden spires pierced the clouds. Sculpted gardens wound between shimmering fountains, each depicting heroes of old. Citizens here knelt as the Queen passed, their faces glowing with pride.
They continued into Myrrvain District, where the air smelled of jasmine and the sound of running water filled every street. Canals sparkled like threads of sapphire, lined with bridges and domed buildings of pearl. Artists set down their brushes, musicians paused their songs, and all stood in awe of the royal company.
The Pyrrvain District roared with life. The forges blazed, filling the streets with the tang of molten metal. Warriors in training stopped mid-swing to salute, and merchants shouted blessings upon the Queen and the gods. The district's volcanic stone glowed faintly under the feet of the procession.
Finally, they entered the Frostborne District, where the air turned crisp and pale snowflakes drifted gently, even in the midday sun. The streets glittered with ice crystals, and towering libraries stood like frozen cathedrals. Scholars bowed deeply, holding their scrolls to their hearts as the Queen passed.
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Everywhere they went, Eryon spoke in private to each leader, offering words of encouragement—always ending with a smile and a gentle jest, save for Neel, Vaishnavi, and Rohit, to whom he spoke more formally. When he reached Corvan Umbraxis, he leaned in with a smirk:
> "We will meet further next time, Corvan… and for the love of the stars, stop looking so grim. Be a little positive for once."
Corvan, despite himself, chuckled quietly.
By the time the sun began to set, the citizens of all four districts had seen their rulers and protectors in person, their loyalty renewed. For Ariv, walking alongside gods and legends felt unreal—but as Rudraen whispered to him,
> "This is Eryon's way. He believes in respecting all equally. And now… so will you."
The day's tour ended with the setting sun painting the sky in shades of fire and ice, Atherion's heart beating strong beneath it all.