Zarius stood near the central fountain of the temple courtyard, his broad back leaning against the stone rim as he watched the clear water ripple under the morning sunlight. His arms were crossed loosely over his chest, his eyes occasionally drifting back toward the double doors leading back into the sanctuary.
Beside him, Marielle was leaning against the decorative railing, absently spinning a silver ring around her thumb. Her earlier tension had settled into a quiet, contemplative calm after their conversation, but even she was starting to glance at the sun's position in the sky.
"He's taking his time in there," Marielle noted casually, her voice breaking the quiet hush of the garden. "Do you think he's still praying, or did the High Priest corner him for another long talk?"
"Probably reminiscing," Zarius replied, his low voice calm and even. "Or talking about his family."
