The great doors stood open, silent and solemn.
Beyond them stretched a vast hall of pale stone and dark polished wood, quiet save for the soft rustle of robes and the distant murmur of flowing water.
The air inside felt different— cooler, heavier, as though it carried the weight of unseen tides.
Thin streams of water wound through narrow channels carved into the floor, glimmering beneath the lantern-light like ribbons of silver. Tall pillars rose toward the shadowed ceiling, each one carved with curling waves and sea-birds in flight.
Disciples in blue and white robes stood in neat rows along either side of the hall. The older ones scarcely spared a glance, whilst the younger ones watched with wide, unguarded eyes.
Kyva lowered her gaze at once and followed behind Lady Mia.
Liora walked beside her with her chin lifted high, as though she did not care who looked at her.
Selene remained quiet, her hands folded neatly before her, her presence as still as the water itself.
