Chapter 29
The creaking of polished wheels over white stone slowed until it became a whisper.
Lucien, seated within the comfort of the grand carriage, felt the gentle jolt of stillness—signaling their arrival.
Outside, the sound of fluttering banners and soft chimes could already be heard.
A moment later, the door was opened with practiced grace.
"Welcome, young master," said Maid Marie gently, her soft brown eyes shining in the morning sun.
Lucien stepped down from the carriage.
And what met his eyes left him momentarily breathless.
Before him stood one of the Church of Elyssira's many sanctified branches—the Aurelian Sanctum, an awakening temple known throughout the inner and middle walls of the Valderian Empire.
It was...
Colossal.
The cathedral stretched toward the heavens, its gleaming spires clad in white gold and sun-blessed stone. Stained glass murals lined the facade, casting multicolored light across the courtyard. Each pane told a story—of heroes, saints, and the radiant Goddess Elyssira herself, cradling the world in her palm.