Adam stood silent as the dawn fully broke across the Celestial Plane.
The warmth brushed his skin softly, but it did not reach him. Inside, he felt only the weight of what was coming. He closed his eyes, breathing in the quiet, before opening them again. His gaze sharpened, cold and calm.
"Summon the Pantheon," he said softly.
Aurora didn't move for a moment. Then she nodded, her fingers trembling as she released his hand. She turned and left without a word, her white robes trailing across the polished marble like whispering waves.
Adam remained on the balcony, feeling the wind drift through his hair. He let it move him slightly. Let it remind him that he was still here. Still anchored. Still… alive.
Soon, footsteps approached. Many sets. Each distinct in weight, rhythm, and silence.
He didn't turn.
