By noon, the Moonwell Shrine came into view.
The structure rose from the forest like something transported directly from ancient Greece.
White marble columns supported a triangular pediment adorned with intricate carvings depicting Artemis in various scenes.
Hunting with her bow, surrounded by woodland creatures, standing beside a crescent moon that marked her divine symbol.
Statues flanked the entrance, life-sized representations of deer, wolves, and bears carved with such precision they appeared ready to move.
More carvings covered the frieze, showing nymphs dancing, hunters kneeling in reverence, and the goddess herself bestowing blessings on those who sought her favor.
The shrine sat in a clearing surrounded by ancient oaks, their branches forming a natural canopy that filtered sunlight into shafts of gold.
A stone path led from the road to the entrance, lined with smaller statues of woodland creatures: Rabbits, foxes, and birds, each one unique and beautifully crafted.
