Chapter 36: Prophecy, Power, and Pip
The morning sun filters through the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral of Mercy, scattering a kaleidoscope of divine color across the white marble walls. Incense hangs in the air like holy mist, curling through the columns of the grand bathing chamber, where soft humming and splashing echoed like a sacred lullaby.
Saint-Sister Lihon reclines in a carved ivory tub, her skin aglow beneath the rose-tinted water. Two attendant priestesses gently massage oils into her arms and neck, their motions reverent and rhythmic. Her golden hair floats like a halo around her, and a peaceful smile graces her lips.
She exhales slowly.
Today feels different.
She is clean, but not just in body... her soul feels scrubbed, polished and refreshed. The experience with the divine golem, the Prince of Pleasure, has shaken something loose in her heart. For the first time in years, she feels hope, unfiltered and unmeasured.
And for the first time in her life, she felt pure, body-shaking, brain-breaking bliss.
Wrapped in soft linen, Liorna emerges from the bath. Her priestesses dry her hair with enchanted towels and clothe her in her formal robes, a beautifully ornate version of her usual habit. Silver embroidery stitches swirling sigils of mercy and fertility across the fabric. Gold chainlets danced at her waist with each step. Her hair and face are adorned with intricately designed gems and jewellery.
Bathed in sunlight, radiant and regal, she descends the corridor toward the inner sanctum.
Her prayers are interrupted by a familiar knock against the chamber wall.
"The Maiden Mother is requesting communion," says the head attendant, bowing low. "As expected."
Lihona nods, swallowing softly. "Please prepare the scrying room."