After a day and a half of travel, Cael and Alaric finally arrived at the temple with a faint glow of the afternoon sun resting above its towering stone walls. The long journey had quieted the escort, and even the horses seemed subdued as they came to a halt before the massive gates.
Then a deep temple bell rang out along with its sound, rolling through the stone halls like a solemn announcement.
Slowly, the gates parted.
Rows of acolytes dressed in white stood waiting inside. At the sound of the bell, they lowered their heads in perfect unison, staffs resting firmly against the marble floor.
At the front of the assembly, the High Priest stepped forward. His hands were folded within the wide sleeves of his ceremonial robes, and were calm yet grave expression.
"May the Light of the Goddess Mirath bear witness," he spoke solemnly. "The Northern Temple humbly welcomes His Grace, the Duke, and His Royal Highness, the Prince of the Empire."
