The soft glow of dawn illuminated the city of Cremoor as Quin made his way to the Church of Solarius. The familiar grandeur of the structure stood as a beacon against the pale morning sky, its towering spires seeming to pierce the heavens themselves. The golden sunburst above the main archway caught the early light, reflecting a radiant brilliance that made Quin feel grounded, despite the whirlwind of emotions and revelations he had faced in recent days.

  Quin stepped through the heavy arched doors, the scent of incense filling his senses. The warm hues of the stained-glass windows cast vibrant patterns of gold and amber across the pristine stone floors. The soft murmur of prayers and the rustling of robes created a calming symphony that Quin had come to cherish each morning.

  The pews were already filling with worshippers: farmers, merchants, scholars, and soldiers—all gathered to honor the God they held in common. Quin quietly found his usual seat near the center, his gaze drifting to the colossal statue of Solarius at the head of the church. The deity’s arms were raised, holding the brilliant sun high above his head. Today, as always, the sight filled Quin with both reverence and determination.

  High Priest Patrick Falter stood at the altar, resplendent in his golden robes. The intricate embroidery of sunbursts shimmered in the candlelight. As the congregation settled, Patrick raised his hands, calling for silence. His voice carried a calm authority that immediately commanded attention.

  “Brothers and sisters,” Patrick began, his voice resonating through the vast chamber, “today we gather in the light of Solarius, as we do each morning, to reaffirm our commitment to the path of light, wisdom, and might. To live in the light is to walk a path not of ease but of purpose. It is to stand against the darkness, not with hatred in our hearts but with the conviction that light brings life to all it touches.”

  Quin found himself leaning forward, Patrick’s words resonating deeply.

  Patrick continued, his tone shifting to one of gentle admonition. “In recent days, some of us have heard rumors—whispers of trials faced by the faithful. Let me remind you: trials are not a punishment but a crucible. It is through hardship that we are refined, as gold is purified by fire. Those who walk in Solarius’s light must do so with open hearts, clear minds, and the courage to face what lies ahead.”

  The High Priest paused, his gaze sweeping over the congregation, his expression a mix of warmth and determination. “Solarius teaches us that every shadow exists only because there is light. Even in the darkest of times, remember that the light within us cannot be extinguished, for it is a reflection of the divine. We are called to shine, to illuminate the path for others, and to never waver, no matter how deep the shadows may seem.”

  Quin felt a surge of emotion rise in his chest. The words mirrored the inner struggle he had faced since returning from Vistow. The decisions he had made and the lives he had taken to protect the innocent all felt vindicated in Patrick’s sermon.

  The High Priest lowered his arms, his voice softening. “Go now, and carry the light of Solarius into the world. Be the beacon that others look to, the warmth that dispels coldness, and the truth that banishes deceit. In his light, there is no fear—only hope.”

  The congregation rose as one, murmured prayers filling the space as Patrick began the closing hymn. Quin joined in, his voice blending with the others. He felt a sense of peace.

  As the final notes of the hymn faded, Quin remained seated for a moment, watching as the others filed out. The light streaming through the stained glass seemed a little brighter, a little warmer today. It wasn’t just a reflection of Solarius’s sun. It was a reflection of the resolve Quin carried within himself.

  He rose, bowing briefly toward the statue of Solarius, and made his way to the doors. Today, as always, he would walk forward, guided by the light.

  Over the days following the incident in Vistow, Quin’s usual training sessions had been canceled, with instructors citing the need for the Radiant Vanguard Brotherhood to rest and recover from their ordeal both physically and mentally. Though grateful for the consideration, Quin found himself restless. The familiar rhythm of training and pushing his limits was what kept him focused, and he suspected his friends felt the same way.

  After the battle, the group found time to meditate and channel the spirit they had absorbed during their battle. They had all experienced a breakthrough, their Divine Conduits expanding as they had ascended to the next Degree.

  Quin now stood at the Fifth Degree of the Acolyte Rank, a remarkable feat given how far he had come in such a short time. His friends—Cal, Sam, Westin, and Zach—had all reached the same milestone. When Quin had first joined the Radiant Vanguard, they had been at the Third Degree, their progress far surpassing his. That gap had narrowed considerably after their harrowing battle with the Shadowmaw, where all of his friends had ascended to the Fourth Degree and him to the Second Degree. Quin had caught up fully when they had decided he should absorb the spirit-infused stone they had found in the Shadowmaw’s lair so they could stand as equals in strength.

  The group has been unwilling to let a week pass without any practice. So they decided to meet for personal training anyway. They had booked a quiet, secluded training area within the Temple of Solarius’s sprawling complex, surrounded by tall stone walls and bathed in sunlight that seemed to warm the very air around them.

  “Feels strange to be here without the instructors,” Cal remarked as they gathered. He leaned on his shortsword, his expression thoughtful.

  “We don’t need them,” Zach replied confidently, giving his shield a testing tap with the flat of his sword. “We’ve come this far together. If anything, this is our chance to push each other harder than they ever could.”

  Westin stretched lazily, his wand glinting in the sunlight. “Speak for yourself. I was looking forward to some actual rest. But if we’re doing this, let’s see if all that meditating paid off.”

  Sam rolled his shoulders, his mace resting comfortably at his side. “Meditation is as much a part of training as sparring, Westin. You should try taking it more seriously.”

  Westin grinned. “I did take it seriously. I’m just saying I could’ve used a nap after.”

  Quin chuckled, unsheathing his broadsword. The weight felt familiar, an extension of himself. “Alright, let’s see what we can do. No instructors mean no limits. Let’s push ourselves and see how far we’ve come.”

  The group formed a circle, each taking a moment to stretch and prepare. As they began their training, it became clear how much they had grown. Their movements were faster, their strikes stronger, and their abilities more refined.

  Westin’s Prismatic Bursts were sharper, the elements more powerful. Sam’s swings carried a palpable weight of conviction, his Edicts of Justice manifesting with greater precision. Zach’s shieldwork and Valor-based powers made him an unyielding wall of protection. Cal’s Strategic Grid cast a clear battlefield map in his mind, allowing him to call out tactics and the weaknesses of the others with stunning accuracy.

  And Quin, who had recently mastered the Rhythm of Light, moved with a fluidity and power that astounded even himself. His attacks resonated with bursts of light, each strike echoing with the rhythm of his surroundings. Upon demonstrating this new ability, he had been stopped and forced to explain how he possessed such a power by his brothers. They knew he could learn additional powers being the Son of Solarius and a Demigod, but when he had pulled out the ability mid-fight in the tunnels of Vistow, he had surprised them.

  Quin explained that Lief had taught it to him, and he had just figured it out the day before they had left for Vistow. He simply had not had the time to tell them that he had learned it while keeping it a secret from others. Normal followers of Gods would not possess six powers at the Acolyte Rank. Only upon ascending to the Disciple Rank would someone gain a sixth power.

  Quin’s friends didn’t resent him for not telling them immediately; instead, they congratulated him and promised they would keep the secret. Quin would have to restrain himself from using his Rhythm of Light ability unless he were alone with his friends or in a life-and-death battle they could not handle.

  “So… uhhhh… are you going to tell Lauren about this whole Demigod thing?” Westin asked a bit awkwardly. That question paused Quin in his tracks. It had been a question he had been warring with. It would be safer not to, but he and Lauren were close.

  “To be honest, I don’t know. It would be safer not to, but I also trust her. However, the information could also make it dangerous for her. I simply do not know yet,” Quin sighed.

  Cal smiled at Quin and patted him on the shoulder. “You can always tell her later. She would understand. Once a secret is told, it cannot be taken back.”

  “Yeah, I suppose you are right,” Quin said.

  “Enough of this talking; let's get to training,” Zach declared.

  During their self-directed training session, the Radiant Vanguard decided to focus on a critical flaw they had noticed during the battle in Vistow's tunnels: their spirit expenditure. Against the overwhelming number of Guardians, they had found themselves quickly drained of spirit, leaving them vulnerable and on the brink of collapse. If Lief Stoneheart hadn’t arrived with reinforcements when he did, the battle could have ended in disaster.

  There were two solutions to the problem of spirit expenditure. The first would be to expand their Divine Conduits and Ascend in Degree or Rank. This was something they would do anyway. The second would be to train and focus on ways to cut down on how much spirit they used during battles and how they could increase their effectiveness with less spirit. This would be what they would focus on and could improve upon.

  “We can’t afford to fight like that again,” Cal began, his voice calm but firm. “We threw everything we had at those Guardians, and by the end, we were completely tapped out. It’s not just about being strong; we have to be efficient.”

  Zach nodded, tightening the straps on his shield. “I agree. If we hadn’t had reinforcements, we wouldn’t have been able to protect the children. We need to figure out how to hit harder while using less spirit.”

  Westin tapped his wand against his thigh, frowning in thought. “It’s tricky. Some of my spells are inherently inefficient because of the random nature of Prismatic Burst. I think I could cut down on the frequency of my casts if I aim for precision instead of volume.”

  “That’s a good start,” Quin said, his broadsword gleaming in the sunlight. “I think we also need to look at how we’re chaining our powers together. If we can work in tighter coordination, we can use less spirit overall while staying effective.”

  Sam rested his mace on his shoulder, nodding in agreement. “We should also consider how we engage. If we take turns rotating into defensive positions, it’ll lessen the pressure on us and allow us to reassess the best strategy for the fight and determine how best to utilize our powers rather than using brute force.”

  Cal smiled. “Good points all around. Let’s test it out. We’ll spar in pairs and focus on minimal spirit use. The goal is efficiency, not flashy displays of power.”

  They broke into pairs—Quin with Zach vs Sam with Westin—while Cal observed and gave feedback. Each bout, they swapped partners, with Cal rotating in and replacing someone. They focused on integrating precise movements, calculated spirit usage, and defensive rotations. They experimented with different approaches, testing what worked and what didn’t.

  Quin found that using the Rhythm of Light in shorter bursts rather than sustaining it throughout a fight drastically reduced his spirit consumption. By timing his strikes only when he had a clear advantage, he could still capitalize on the ability’s power without draining himself unnecessarily.

  Zach practiced holding his Guardian’s Resolve for brief moments during crucial blocks instead of keeping it active for extended periods. He also began incorporating counterattacks to maximize the impact of his defensive stance.

  Sam worked on using Edicts of Justice in tandem with basic strikes from his mace, learning to reserve his more spirit-intensive powers like Righteous Fury and The Laws of Justicar for pivotal moments in combat. Westin, meanwhile, focused on aiming his Prismatic Bursts more carefully, ensuring that each shot had a clear target rather than firing wildly to keep enemies at bay.

  Cal tested his Strategic Grid ability sparingly, trying to activate it only when they truly needed its battlefield insights. He also worked on layering his Preemptive Barriers more precisely, creating shields only where they were most needed rather than covering an entire area.

  By the end of the session, they were all drenched in sweat but felt a sense of accomplishment.

  “We’re getting there,” Cal said, wiping his brow. “It’ll take more practice, but I think we’ve made progress today.”

  “Agreed,” Quin said, sheathing his broadsword. “If we keep working on this, we’ll be ready for anything.”

  Westin grinned, stretching his arms. “And maybe next time, we won’t have to rely on someone like Sir Stoneheart to save our skins.”

  Sam chuckled. “Or at least not as much.”

  The group shared a laugh before packing up their gear. Though they had a long way to go, the Radiant Vanguard was more determined than ever to grow stronger together.

  —

  Several days after the return to Cremoor, Lief Stoneheart strode into the training grounds the Radiant Vanguard occupied, his imposing figure commanding instant attention. He looked weary but resolute, his armor freshly polished despite the long hours he must have spent in Vistow.

  Quin immediately paused his sparring with Zach and stepped forward, wiping sweat from his brow. “Sir,” he greeted. “What’s the news?”

  Lief sighed, crossing his arms over his broad chest. “We’ve attempted to map the caves, but they are far more extensive than we initially thought, but we didn’t find Eloria—or the other high-ranking members of her cult. We haven’t mapped the tunnels in their entirety yet, but we are still working on it. We did, however, find a second exit to the cave system. It’s likely they escaped through there. ”

  The group exchanged worried glances. Quin’s jaw tightened, his anger at what Eloria and the Cult of Eternal Peace had done to those children flaring. “Did you find anything that might lead us to her?”

  Lief shook his head. “Unfortunately, most of the critical research and documentation is gone. They were thorough—anything left behind was insignificant, just scraps detailing failure after failure. Whatever breakthrough they might have been close to, they took it with them.”

  “Any idea where they might have gone?” Cal asked, his voice calm but tense.

  This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

  “That’s where things get tricky,” Lief said. “We’ve dispatched search parties in the surrounding regions, but without a concrete trail, we’re shooting in the dark. That’s why we’re planning to enlist help from followers of Celestria, the Goddess of Prophecy. They might be able to provide us with some guidance or visions that could point us in the right direction.”

  “Celestria,” Sam murmured. “They’re occasionally unreliable due to the unpredictability of the future, but if you are out of leads, it is probably the best avenue to take.”

  Lief nodded, then fixed Quin with a steady gaze. “That’s actually why I’m here, Quin. You have seen Eloria face to face. It would be a great help to have you come with me when I approach them.”

  Quin blinked in surprise. “Me? Why?”

  “Celestria’s followers often need something—or someone—intimately connected to the events they’re divining about,” Lief explained. “Your firsthand knowledge of Eloria and the cult could make their work more effective.”

  Quin glanced at his comrades. Zach gave him a firm nod, and Cal offered a small smile. “You should go,” Cal said. “If there’s even a chance you can help track her down, it’s worth it.”

  “I’ll come,” Quin said, turning back to Lief. “When do we leave?”

  “Immediately,” Lief said.

  Quin nodded, then turned to his friends. “Keep training without me. I’ll catch up tomorrow.”

  “Don’t worry about us,” Westin said with a grin. “We’ll still be here, perfecting how to outshine you.”

  Quin chuckled, grabbed his gear, and followed Lief out of the training grounds where they left the Temple of Solarius and traversed the courtyard surrounding the Control Spire to the Temple of Celestria.

  —

  The Temple of Celestria stood on a raised plateau near the edge of Cremoor, a structure as awe-inspiring as it was mysterious. The temple was built from pale blue and white stone that shimmered faintly in the sunlight, giving it an ethereal glow as though it were made of starlight itself. Tall spires stretched into the sky, each topped with a gleaming crystal orb that refracted light into dazzling patterns over the grounds below. Delicate carvings of constellations and celestial maps adorned the walls, telling stories of fate, prophecy, and the infinite paths woven through time.

  Wide, sweeping stairs led to massive double doors crafted from deep, polished wood inlaid with silver designs of swirling galaxies. At the base of the stairs, statues of robed figures with empty, serene faces gazed upward, holding aloft crystal globes that pulsed faintly with energy. The atmosphere around the temple was quiet but heavy with purpose, as though every breath was part of a larger destiny unfolding.

  Quin and Lief ascended the stairs, the faint hum of the crystals filling the air as they approached. The heavy doors opened without a sound as they stepped inside.

  The interior of the temple was a stark contrast to the tranquil exterior. The main hall was vast and circular, its high domed ceiling painted with a breathtaking mural of the night sky. The stars seemed to move ever so slightly, twinkling as though they were alive. A central chandelier crafted entirely of crystal hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of lights that danced over the polished marble floors. Pillars lined the hall, engraved with intricate depictions of the celestial balance—destiny on one side, free will on the other.

  The temple, however, was in chaos.

  Priests and priestesses in flowing silver and blue robes bustled about, their faces a mixture of focus and urgency. Some were hunched over large crystal balls set into pedestals, their hands glowing faintly as they scryed. Others knelt in prayer before small altars, their voices murmuring rhythmic chants that resonated through the air like music. A group of scribes sat at long tables on the temple’s edges, feverishly jotting down messages or drawing star charts as directed by their counterparts.

  Knights of Celestria, clad in gleaming armor with their deity’s emblem of a starburst overlaid on a crescent moon, moved swiftly through the crowds, coordinating with the temple staff. One knight was holding up a scroll and issuing rapid orders to several priests, who scattered to their tasks. The atmosphere was one of controlled chaos—like a hive working to decipher the secrets of the cosmos.

  Lief leaned slightly toward Quin, his voice low. "They’re in a tizzy. Something big must have happened."

  Quin’s eyes darted around, taking in the flurry of activity. The weight of the temple’s purpose—untangling the threads of fate—pressed heavily on him. "Let’s find someone in charge," Lief said, feeling small amid the grandeur and energy of the temple. "They clearly have their hands full, but we need answers."

  Quin turned to Lief, his brow furrowed. "Is this kind of chaos normal here?"

  Lief shook his head. "Not at all. The Temple of Celestria prides itself on order and control—like they’re orchestrating the stars themselves. Something big is happening."

  Spotting a priest rushing past, Lief stepped forward and raised his hand. "You there!" he called out. The priest, a young man with disheveled robes and an ink-stained scroll clutched tightly in his hands, stopped abruptly, his expression harried.

  "Yes, what is it?" the priest asked, clearly in a rush.

  "We need some answers," Lief said, his tone firm but not unkind. "What’s going on here?"

  The priest glanced nervously at the scribes and diviners around him, then leaned closer. "The High Priestess had a divine revelation from Celestria herself. We’re trying to divine more information, but it’s... fragmented. Everyone’s doing their part."

  Before he could rush off again, Lief reached out and caught his arm, holding him in place. "Slow down. What exactly did Celestria reveal?"

  The priest hesitated, glancing around as if he wanted to run off and continue his job, but noticed Lief’s armor, which displayed him as a high-ranking member of the Temple of Solarius. He shook his head and forced himself to answer. "She told the High Priestess that Seria, the Frozen City, is finally finished thawing. Entry might soon be possible." His voice trembled with a mixture of awe and anxiety. "It’s critical we get more details—what it means, what’s inside... but we’re still piecing it together."

  Quin exchanged a glance with Lief, whose expression turned grim. "That’s no small revelation," Lief muttered under his breath. Turning back to the priest, he asked, "Where’s the High Priestess? We need to speak with her."

  The priest shook his head rapidly. "She’s in the divining chamber at the top of the temple. But she won’t be able to see you—she’s focused on the revelation and can’t be interrupted."

  Lief’s expression hardened. Reaching into his cloak, he pulled out an official-looking writ embossed with the golden emblem of Cremoor’s Temple of Solarius: a radiant sun with a sword crossing through it. "I’m here on official business from Thorne Ironclad, the High Templar of the Temple of Solarius," Lief said firmly, holding up the writ for the priest to see. "This isn’t a request."

  The priest’s eyes widened, and he immediately bowed. "My apologies, Sir Knight. If it’s official business from the High Templar, I’ll direct you. The High Priestess is in the divining chamber above. Take the spiral staircase at the back of the main hall. It’ll lead you straight there."

  Lief nodded and released the priest, who scampered off without another word. Turning to Quin, Lief’s eyes held a flicker of determination. "Let’s go."

  As they made their way through the bustling temple, the hum of frantic activity surrounded them. Quin walked alongside Lief, his curiosity piqued by the urgency around them. "Lief," he began, "what exactly is Seria, the Frozen City? Why is it such a big deal?"

  Lief glanced at Quin, his expression grave as they approached the grand spiral staircase the priest had directed them to. "Seria is a city with a tragic history. Over two millennia ago, it was a beacon of the Light Pantheon, a hub of faith, culture, and craftsmanship. But it met its end when a Soulforge Ascendant named Gustus Coldfront, a devout follower of Gelum from the Dark Pantheon, destroyed it."

  "Destroyed it how?" Quin asked, his brow furrowing.

  "He froze it," Lief said simply. "Completely encased the entire city in an impenetrable dome of ice, trapping and killing everyone inside—followers of the Light Pantheon who couldn't escape his wrath. The city has been sealed in that ice ever since, preserved in a frozen grave."

  Quin’s eyes widened at the thought. "That’s... horrifying. What happened to Gustus?"

  "He didn’t escape justice," Lief replied, his voice firm. "Three Soulforge Ascendants of the Light Pantheon—titans of their time—tracked him down and fought him. It was a battle for the ages, one that ended with Gustus’s death. But it came at a terrible cost. He mortally wounded two of them during the fight. They lingered on for a time, continuing to serve the Light Pantheon, but over the next few centuries, they succumbed to their injuries."

  Quin fell silent for a moment, the weight of the history sinking in. "So why is Seria thawing now? And why is it so important?"

  Lief sighed. "That’s the question these followers of Celestria probably want answered. The ice dome is thawing from the inside out—no one knows why. But what lies within the city is crucial. Seria was home to an entire city of relics, weapons, and artifacts of the Light Pantheon, frozen in time along with its people. If we can recover even a fraction of those treasures, it would be a monumental boon for the Light Pantheon."

  "And the dangers?" Quin asked. "Surely, after two thousand years, it’s not as simple as just walking in and picking up what we want."

  Lief nodded grimly. "You’re right. The density of ice spirit in Seria is immense. It’s likely that beasts of ice have manifested within the dome, drawn to the spirit. They’ll be powerful, unnatural creations, possibly influenced by Gelum’s lingering presence. Entering the city will be no small task."

  Quin processed the information as they ascended the staircase, the enormity of Seria’s significance and the potential challenges ahead beginning to dawn on him. "So if it’s thawing, it could become a battleground between the Light and Dark Pantheon, couldn’t it? Both sides would want what’s inside. Us to obtain the artifacts and the Dark Pantheon to destroy them."

  "Exactly," Lief said, his tone somber. "That’s why the Light Pantheon must act swiftly and decisively. If the Dark Pantheon gets there first..." He trailed off, but the implication was clear.

  Quin clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. "Then we can’t let that happen."

  The pair reached the divining chamber at the top of the Temple of Celestria. It was a masterpiece of mystical architecture. The circular room was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow emanating from an enormous crystal orb suspended from the ceiling by intricate golden chains. The orb pulsed faintly, as though alive, casting patterns of shimmering light across the stone walls. The floor was an elaborate mosaic of swirling stars and celestial bodies, expertly crafted from polished stones of deep blues, silvers, and whites. Along the walls, shelves brimmed with scrolls, tomes, and strange instruments, their purposes unknown to most but integral to the art of divination.

  At the center of the chamber stood a large, circular altar made of pure white marble, etched with constellations that glowed faintly. Around it were several smaller pedestals holding artifacts—crystal orbs, golden mirrors, and rods of polished silver—all tools of prophecy and insight. The chamber was empty except for a single woman.

  The High Priestess herself stood near the central altar, her presence commanding yet serene. She was an older woman, her silver hair pulled back into an elaborate braid adorned with gemstones that glittered like the night sky. Her robes flowed like liquid light, shimmering as she moved, and her piercing gaze seemed to see far beyond the room’s confines.

  As Lief and Quin entered, the High Priestess turned to face them, her expression a mix of curiosity and authority. "What brings you here to the chamber of divination?" she asked, her voice calm but laced with the weight of her station and a hint of frustration at being interrupted.

  Lief stepped forward, introducing himself and Quin with a respectful bow. "High Priestess, I am Lief Stoneheart, representing the Temple of Solarius. This is Quin Solloma, an Acolyte. We come seeking your guidance on a matter of urgency."

  Quin was briefly taken aback at Lief using the last name that Quin had given himself. He was not aware that Lief had known he had given himself a surname. Perhaps Lauren had told him, or he had seen it on some paperwork or such.

  Her gaze lingered on Quin for a moment, as if assessing him, before she nodded. "And what is this matter?" she asked, motioning for them to approach the altar.

  Lief quickly summarized the events surrounding the Eternal Peace cult, their experiments, and the escape of Eloria. "We believe Eloria and her remaining cultists are hiding nearby. Your insight could be invaluable in narrowing our search."

  The High Priestess folded her hands thoughtfully, then turned to Quin. "You have encountered this Eloria directly, yes?"

  Quin nodded. "I have, High Priestess. She was the leader of the cult. She’s dangerous, manipulative, and cunning."

  "Describe her," the High Priestess instructed. "Her appearance, her demeanor. Anything that may help establish a stronger connection for the divination."

  Quin described Eloria in as much detail as he could recall—her cold, calculating gaze, her sharp features, the air of authority she carried, and the fanaticism in her voice when she spoke of her plans.

  The High Priestess listened intently, then closed her eyes. She stepped behind the altar and began to pray, her voice low and melodic, resonating with the room’s mystical energy. She moved to a set of artifacts, selecting a golden mirror and a silver rod. She waved the rod over the mirror while chanting in a tongue unfamiliar to Quin. The mirror’s surface rippled, showing fleeting images that were too vague to decipher.

  After a tense silence, she moved to the large crystal orb at the center of the room, placing her hands upon it. Her fingers glowed faintly as she concentrated, her brow furrowed in deep focus. Minutes passed, the chamber growing still except for the faint hum of power.

  Finally, the High Priestess opened her eyes and stepped back from the orb, her expression unreadable. "The results are hazy," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "Eloria’s presence is shrouded, likely due to the lack of information I have on her and us missing an object of focus. However, I can tell you this—she is closer than you might expect. Too close for comfort. Whatever lair she has chosen, it is within reach of Cremoor."

  Lief nodded grimly. "Then we will redouble our efforts. Thank you, High Priestess."

  She inclined her head. "May the Light Pantheon guide you in your search. And beware—those who walk in shadows often carry allies unseen. Do not underestimate her cunning. Cults are tricky things and will have followers and connections within the city itself if it survived just outside of Cremoor for so long. That is all I can help with; I must return to urgent matters and cannot spare any more time, even for a representative from the Temple of Solarius."

  With that, Lief and Quin excused themselves, leaving the divining chamber with a renewed sense of urgency, although not much closer to the target they sought.

  As they descended the temple steps, Quin glanced at Lief. "So, what does all that mean for us? If Eloria is closer than we think, shouldn’t we be focusing our efforts inside the city?"

  Lief rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "It means I’ll need to cast a net around the outskirts of Cremoor. If she’s nearby, she’s likely trying to stay out of sight, perhaps using abandoned villages to hide under the radar. Searching within the city walls will be the job of the Inquisition."

  Quin raised an eyebrow. "The Inquisition? I thought they were focused on rooting out corruption in the Temple of Serenity?"

  "They are," Lief replied, "but their reach extends far beyond that. The Inquisition is tasked with rooting out heresy wherever it hides, especially when it poses a danger to the Light Pantheon as a whole. Their current focus may be on Serenity's followers, but don’t underestimate their capabilities. They are methodical and relentless. They will search out and purge anything related to this Cult within the city as a whole," He gave Quin a sidelong glance. "Trust me, you don’t want to be part of an Inquisition, even as a narrowly connected suspect. It’s a grueling, invasive process."

  Quin shuddered, recalling the cold, calculating demeanor of the Inquisitors who had visited his room during the first few days he had been back. They had grilled him on every detail about Vistow, the cult, and his mother. Though he had been forthcoming, he had kept certain truths to himself—like Solarius’ involvement and the deeper connection his mother had with Solarius. He only highlighted that she was a part of the cult’s experiments and she fled to escape the cult’s control, which was primarily true.

  The Inquisition had definitely known Quin was hiding a few extra details but had been cleared and saved from their questions by Patrick Falter, the High Priest of Solarius in Cremoor. High Priest Patrick also came with a handwritten and sealed note from the High Templar repeating the order. The Inquisition had not been happy but had begrudgingly stepped down, acknowledging that Quin would not hide anything pertaining to the cult that he had exposed.

  As they walked, Lief continued to explain. "The Inquisition assembled in Cremoor faster than I expected. It’s only been a few days since the cult was uncovered, and they’re already tearing through the city like wildfire. Representatives from every temple, even Serenity’s, have been brought in to assist. They’ve delivered results too, though not all of them are actionable."

  Quin’s curiosity was piqued. "What kind of results?"

  Lief frowned. "Several charities linked to the cult have been seized, their assets confiscated. These were likely fronts for Eternal Peace, funneling resources to their operations in Vistow and elsewhere. A number of Serenity’s officials—both high-ranking and minor functionaries—have been arrested. Most are suspected of turning a blind eye, but a few appear to have actively supported the cult. They’re being interrogated as we speak. They will probably not survive the process if found guilty."

  Quin winced at the thought but said nothing.

  Lief continued. "More troubling are the dozen cultists found operating within Cremoor itself. Guardians, researchers, and even a couple of their so-called clergy. They all committed suicide before they could be properly interrogated, leaving us with nothing but dead ends."

  Quin let out a weary sigh. "It sounds... brutal. Necessary, maybe, but brutal."

  "It is," Lief agreed. "The inquisition’s purpose isn’t to spare feelings or tread lightly. It exists to protect the Pantheon, and sometimes that means stirring up the hornet’s nest. But don’t let it weigh on you, Quin. This isn’t your fight anymore."

  Quin nodded slowly. "Yeah. I guess I’d rather focus on training and being out there, helping people. I don’t think I could ever be an Inquisitor. Interrogation, torture, slaughtering those far below my Rank for their actions."

  Lief smiled faintly. "No, I don’t think you’d enjoy it. You see the best in people, Quin, and that’s one of your greatest strengths. Inquisitors... they’re trained to expect the worst. It’s a hard way to live."

  They walked in silence for the rest of the trip, and Quin said he needed some rest. Lief nodded and continued to follow him to his room. Upon reaching his room, Lief stopped Quin.

  “I know I have been neglecting your training a bit. We need to focus on you learning more powers, Quin. This encounter in Vistow could have easily killed you, and its only by the grace of Solarius it didn’t. Only by unlocking your true potential as a Demigod will you be safe. When I return from hunting down this cult’s remnants, I will spend far more time focused on you and your training,” Lief promised. “We will practice the Rhythm of Light until your fingers bleed or until you are able to harness it.”

  “Ah, actually, Sir,” Quin voiced. “I already can use the Rhythm of Light.”

  Lief paused at Quin’s door, his expression momentarily unreadable. “You… already learned the Rhythm of Light?” he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

  Quin scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. “Uh, yeah. I had a breakthrough the day before we left for Vistow. I didn’t get the chance to tell you, though, with everything that happened. I’ve been practicing it since you tried to teach me, and I ended up using it in the caverns against one of the cult’s Disciples.”

  Lief folded his arms, leaning against the doorframe. “You’re telling me you mastered one of Solarius’ most complex abilities I have on your own, and the first time you fully put it to use was against a Disciple-ranked cultist?”

  Quin nodded. “Elisa,” he clarified. “If it hadn’t been for the Rhythm of Light, I wouldn’t have stood a chance against her—or some of the Guardians. It was the only way I could keep up.”

  Lief exhaled slowly, shaking his head in disbelief. Then a grin broke across his face, his deep voice carrying a hint of pride. “You’re something else, Quin. I would have never thought you would pick up something like the Rhythm of Light without far more guidance. And then you go and use it to take down a Disciple. That’s… remarkable.”

  Quin shrugged, still feeling a bit self-conscious. “It wasn’t easy. I was pushed to my limit. And I couldn’t have done it without my friends—they fought just as hard as I did.”

  Lief gave him a sharp look. Quin had told Lief about the Radiant Vanguard and the brotherhood he had formed, which kept no secrets. He didn’t necessarily approve, but he was slowly coming around to the idea that Quin's identity would not be exposed with each passing day.

  Lief Stonheart sighed. “Don’t downplay your achievements, Quin. What you did was extraordinary, even for someone of your lineage. I’ve always believed in your potential, but this proves you’re far more talented than you give yourself credit for.” He straightened, his grin softening into something more genuine. “I suppose this means I don’t need to teach you the Rhythm of Light anymore.”

  Quin smirked. “I wouldn’t say that. There’s probably a lot I can still learn from you—ways to refine it, make it more efficient.”

  Lief chuckled. “That’s more like it. This is cause for celebration.”

  Without warning, Lief let out a booming laugh and swept Quin up into a bear hug, lifting him off the ground and crushing him in an embrace that felt like it could snap steel.

  “Praise Solarius!” Lief laughed, his voice echoing down the corridor. “What a bright day for the Light Pantheon! Solarius has truly blessed us with a messiah in the making!”

  Quin caught between laughter and a grimace from the strength of Lief’s hug, managed to croak out, “S-Sir, I need air!”

  Lief set him down, still grinning ear to ear. “Forgive me, Quin. I simply could not contain myself any longer. This is incredible news! I’ll have to start searching for another power for you to learn immediately. We can’t let this momentum go to waste!”

  He paused, his enthusiasm momentarily tempered by a thoughtful expression. “Although… can you learn another power before Ascending to the Disciple Rank? That’s already six powers you’re holding at the Acolyte Rank. Only Disciples are capable of holding six powers at once.”

  Quin looked down at his hands, flexing his fingers. He took a moment to feel the ebb and flow of spirit within him, searching for any signs of strain or resistance. “I think I can,” he said quietly but confidently. “I don’t feel any sort of burden from having six powers. If anything, I feel like there’s still room for more.”

  Lief’s grin returned, even broader than before. “Excellent! Truly excellent!” He clapped Quin on the back with such force that Quin stumbled forward a step. “I’ll start searching for the perfect power for your powerset immediately. Solarius has great plans for you, Quin. We’ll make sure you’re ready to fulfill them.”

  With a final hearty laugh, Lief turned to leave, his steps full of purpose. “Rest well, Quin. You’ve earned it. And get ready for whatever comes next. The Light Pantheon has a bright future ahead of it—with you leading the charge.”

  Quin watched Lief’s broad figure disappear down the corridor, a mixture of pride and determination filling his chest. He had a long road ahead, but knowing he had Lief’s faith—and Solarius’—made the journey feel a little less daunting.