Footsteps echoed across the white-stone courtyard as Alina and Luther passed through the temple gate.
The guards at the entrance bowed deeply, their armor clinking in unison, yet Luther didn't so much as nod. His gaze was elsewhere—fixed on the silent figure beside him.
Alina hadn't spoken since they left Noia Town. Her tears had long since dried, but she kept her hood low, shadows veiling her face. Luther's shoulders slumped slightly. He wanted to say something—anything—but no words came. His lips pressed into a thin line before a quiet sigh escaped him.
What was he even supposed to say?
"Hey, sorry, we just saw a town blink out of existence"?
He rubbed the back of his neck, muttering, "Just great…" under his breath.
As they moved deeper into the temple grounds, the murmur of voices drifted from ahead.
"He hasn't been back for four days now!"
"Why did the apprentices and guards even let him leave in the first place?"
