[Temple of the Divine Flame – Inner Sanctum]
The scent of burning myrrh lingered in the air, curling around the ancient stone pillars like smoke-wreathed serpents. Golden light from a thousand candles flickered across the marble floor, casting long shadows against the domed ceiling, where painted gods gazed down with stern, timeless eyes.
At the center of it all knelt High Priest Caldric, his crimson and gold robes pooled around him like a river of blood and fire. His hands were clasped in solemn devotion, his forehead pressed to the edge of the altar—a monolith of obsidian, carved with divine symbols older than any kingdom.
His lips moved silently.
Whispers to gods that hadn't answered in centuries.
And yet—he prayed.
Still. Unshaken. Unyielding.
Then—
Creak.
The chamber doors opened with a slow groan, followed by soft footsteps echoing against stone.
But Caldric did not move.
He didn't even lift his head.
