A Dreamer's Knight

Chapter 26 - Finding Religion

The Celestial Cathedral in Ircandesta was in the middle of the commercial district, and aside from the tree growing around it, looked just like some of the cathedrals that Mikaen had visited back home. It had the usual decorations: spires, gargoyles, buttresses, and the like. The only real difference was the shape; the cathedrals on Earth were built to resemble a cross when viewed from above, whereas Celestial Churches resembled triangles.

"It symbolizes the eternal balance of the cosmos." Tirinia told him as they stood before the massive doors, "Light, Void, and Chaos with Balance in the center. It's not just the church either. The symbol of the triangle has been used throughout Vintan history." Seeing his questioning look, she blushed and added, "I considered minoring in theology."

"Oh? Are there many gods on Vinta?"

"A few." She told him, her hand in his. "Though most of those religions aren't practiced anymore. The Celestial Church and the Unending Cycle are the most followed religion."

"The Unending Cycle?"

"Of Creation. They believe the universe is ever-growing. It's a bit more complicated than that, but I don't want to bore you."

He swung her around and caught her easily. "Hey. Do I look bored?"

Smiling, she gave him a kiss that threatened to make him forget why they were there.

Someone coughed politely. "Pardon me, but can I help you?"

Mikaen broke away reluctantly and turned to address the speaker, a middle-aged Galden wearing a fine set of blue and green robes. He had a kind face, was slightly balding, and wore a small triangle pendant reminiscent of the symbol on the door of the cathedral.

"Oh! Hello, Father." Tirinia said, blushing, "We were just-"

Hugging her close, Mikaen interrupted, "My fiancée and I wanted to take a look at the cathedral."

"So you're considering a wedding in the church, eh?" The man seemed pleased, if a bit surprised.

"Er, yes." Tirinia said, her eyes darting to Mikaen's for just an instant.

"Well then, come inside!" He turned and opened the doors for them.

The inside of the Celestial was nothing short of breathtaking, at least to Mikaen's eyes. The delicate woodwork of the walls was accented by ivory, ebony, and opal, depending on their location within the church. The rows of cushioned pews were flanked by tall pillars of sculpted marble while crystal chandeliers illuminated everything from high above. Beautiful stained glass windows had been set into the walls and ceiling, each depicting a different person of some importance. "Probably saints of the church." Mikaen surmised, thinking of the churches he had seen back home.

"So," The priest said as they continued toward the large triangular altar in the center of the church, "So, have you decided on a date?"

"We're still in negotiations with my parents." Tirinia told him.

"Ah. They want a traditional tigreth ceremony, I'm sure."

Tirinia chuckled, her cheeks pink. "Mom's the traditional one. We'd like something a little more ... modest."

"I can certainly understand that." The priest said with a chuckle. "So, you two plan on settling down here in Muonsol?"

"Actually, we plan to settle down in Homestead." Mikaen said, rubbing Tirinia's shoulder, "I've made a home for myself there."

"Ah, Homestead. It's a lovely town." The priest let out a sigh, "Such a wonderful way to live, too. Sometimes, with all the technology available to us, we fail to grasp the true beauty of the simple life. Wouldn't you agree?"