As Adrian and Ava made their way out of the temple, the tension in the air began to ease. The golden glow that had surrounded them within the depths of the temple began to dim, replaced by the cool, dim light of the late afternoon sun.
The air outside was refreshing after the stifling atmosphere of the treasure-laden chamber, and for a moment, Adrian allowed himself to breathe deeply and savor the sensation.
But the relief was short-lived as he and Ava emerged outside.
Standing at the temple's grand entrance, waiting for them with worried faces, were Lilith and Medea. Lilith leaned casually against the stone pillar, her lips curling into a mischievous smile when she spotted them.
Medea, on the other hand, was more composed, arms crossed, her expression unreadable but clearly impatient.
"You took your time," Lilith teased, her dark eyes flicking between Adrian and Ava. "Did our dear goddess of greed slow you down with all her gold?"