Legends of Ancient Astillia: The Sephian

Chapter 7

The next morning, we were gathered in the main hall, just before first light. The hesperide priest stood before us, speaking to a small group of monks, clerics, and acolytes.

"We apologise for waking you so early, but it just so happens to be the first of the month, and we hold a ceremony on this morning every month. The patrons here are pilgrims from all across Domunya, and have come to experience this ceremony and send their praises to The Dawn Father. We would express much gratitude if you were to join us in this morning's service. If you don't, it's fine but I ask that you exit the temple during this time if that is your choice."

I looked over at Rhaphel, and he reached into his satchel, revealing the comb he'd stolen from me earlier in the week.

"I'm staying. I would like to experience other cultures than just our own. I'll give this back to you if you accompany me."

"Of course. I don't see why not. Besides, if we have to be awake so early in the morning, then I'd rather be doing something more productive than strolling around a mountain," I chuckled, giving him my hand. He dropped the comb in it, and I swiftly stored it away in my pocket.

Tavmyndi was told that if he stayed, he would have to remove his armour, or at least his helmet, so he left. The service lasted until the sun had finished rising, and the sky was blue. A patron had pulled me and Rhaphel aside, and asked us questions about the nature patrons we worshipped. The young Aasimar girl was a cleric, adorning deep purples, saturated pinks, dandelion yellow, and white. We spoke until most people had cleared, and she went to say her goodbyes to the priest before she left.

Once everyone was gone, except for Rhaphel, the female human, the male human, and me, the rest of the diplomats had entered, along with Tavmyndi.

We were led to a large, closed ceiling, meeting room. The monk leading us said that this had become a standard in large temples, ever since peace councils began. People can be awful, so they made the decision to hold meetings in temples, because who would dare an assassination in a building of the gods? Tavmyndi was made to wait outside, which was fine, because the walls were thin. With that, the meeting began.