Chapter 399.1
The heavy oak door creaked open, and the priests swept into the room. The Anikas, who had been engaged in hushed conversations, fell silent, their gazes snapping towards the newcomers. Once a respectful quiet settled, the lead priest addressed the gathering.
“Today, we have three spots available for the underground prayer room. As a reminder, priority is given to those who haven’t been before. Who would like to volunteer?”
One of the Anikas stepped forward, her voice firm. “It’s my turn today.”
Katie watched the scene unfold from a corner, her brow furrowed in thought. ‘The underground prayer room…’ The cryptic note left by Pides in their secret hiding spot offered no explanation. But ten days ago, the priests’ visit and their mention of this very room had sent shivers down her spine. The news that Anikas who visited the prayer room were then allowed a brief, supervised excursion outside the Holy Palace was a tantalizing prospect for those confined within its walls for so long.
Half a day, yes, and only with a knight escort, but the mere mention of the outside world was a powerful lure for the Anikas. Katie yearned to warn them, but the specifics of the situation eluded her. Fear of drawing unwanted attention with unnecessary pronouncements held her tongue. The most she could manage was a quiet word of caution to Anika Anne, who seemed particularly eager to secure this coveted outing pass.
A swarm of Anikas descended on the one returning from the prayer room, their questions a rapid-fire barrage. The Anika answered nonchalantly, “I just prayed. Except for the gloomy atmosphere of the dark prayer room, there was nothing special.”
That was it. Half a day out and back, and she’d even returned with sweet snacks and coveted cosmetics, fueling the envy of the others. Suddenly, everyone wanted a turn in the prayer room.
But Katie, a keen observer, noticed a peculiarity. The Anikas who visited the prayer room returned looking utterly drained. Invariably, they’d oversleep the next morning, even those who were usually early risers, waking up closer to noon.
After ten days, a few sharp Anikas began to suspect something amiss. A subtle divide emerged, a split between those yearning for the outing pass offered with the prayer room visit, and those who balked.