Apathetic

Ch. 16

In a lush garden blooming with a riot of colors, Kotoha carefully selected ripe fruits, her nimble fingers skillfully plucking each one from the branches. Her laughter rang out melodiously as she worked alongside the old and wise servant, Hisashi, who had dedicated his life to the temple's tranquility.

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a golden hue over the garden, Hisashi paused in his work, his gaze drifting to the magnificent Eternal Paradise Temple that towered in the distance—a pristine structure that had become a beacon of hope for many. Yet, shadows flickered beneath its grandeur, invisible to the casual observer.

"Ah, Kotoha," Hisashi began, his voice filled with a mixture of reverence and wariness. "Do you know the legends surrounding the Eternal Paradise Temple?"

Kotoha shook her head, her dark hair swaying gently. "All I know is that this temple is a place that symbolizes peace and happiness for our people. Do you know something more?"

Hisashi's expression turned somber, clouds gathering in his wise eyes. "The temple was once a sanctuary of light, guiding our leaders with wisdom. But I have been here long enough to know the story." He let out a small snugged, "Long ago, a dark force crept into its sanctum—an ancient corruption that whispered into the ears of those in power. It preyed upon their fears, amplifying their desires for control and dominance."

Kotoha's brow furrowed in concern. "What happened to them?"

"Those who succumbed to its call," he continued, his voice trembling, "became shadows of their former selves—insane and cruel. They twisted the very teachings of ancient leaders, using the temple's power to bend the will of the people to their own whims. The laughter that once echoed in these gardens was silenced by their tyranny."

Hisashi paused, a shiver running through him as he recalled the tales of the past. "The old leaders were consumed, their minds fracturing into darkness. Some vanished into madness, while others became tyrants, ruling with fear instead of compassion. The temple, which should have been a beacon of hope, became a harbinger of despair. However that had stopped long ago as leaders who had took over the temple...have stopped the cycle."

Kotoha's heart raced, a chill creeping down her spine. "Even though it has not occurred for hundred of years. Do you think it will happen again? To..Douma-Sama? If darkness can touch the temple, how can we ensure it never happens again? Or even to us?"

Hisashi looked deep into her eyes, the weight of many generations reflected in his gaze. "We must remember our roots, Kotoha. We must cultivate light in our hearts and guard against the shadows that seek to mislead us. Only then can the temple be restored to its true purpose as a sanctuary of peace."

As the last rays of sunlight faded, leaving the garden cloaked in twilight, The garden, once filled with vibrant colors, now seemed to darken around them, the vibrant flowers shifting into ghostly silhouettes in the twilight. Kotoha shuddered and looked back at Hisashi, who had grown serious. "We should head inside soon," he advised, his voice low and deliberate. "The night brings with it more than just darkness."

As they gathered the last of the fruits, the wind picked up, rustling the leaves as if the garden itself were warning them. The temple loomed larger in the deepening gloom; its once-majestic presence now appeared ominous, the playful hues of the garden giving way to shades of gray.

"Will you tell me more on our way back?" Kotoha asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Hisashi nodded, sparking a hint of bravery within her. But as they turned to leave, the wind howled in protest, and the ground beneath them rumbled faintly, sending a shiver through Kotoha—both from the chill of the air and the heavy weight of the legends veiled in darkness.