Vayan walked beside Ariadna, the heavy sound of his boots echoing against the stone floor, drowning out her light slippers. Stealing a glance at him, she saw his handsome face—he looked every bit the warrior-priest he was. Known for his exceptional fighting skills and leadership, he was the only child allowed to wield the holy flame as he pleased. His power and deep devotion to the God of Destruction radiated from him, sparking a flicker of anger in her. He was the perfect vessel for divine will, so loyal that he never questioned commands. He had no consept of good or bad. Ariadna knew he would follow even the harshest orders without hesitation, he would kill her in a blink of an eye, if the God desired so. She knew it, because he had already done so once in a past life.
Noticing her troubled expression, Vayan spoke in a calm, reverent voice. "I am honored to be your teacher in the mornings, little one. Starting today, after our prayers, I will inspect your wardrobe, and we will select appropriate attire for your training. Once that is complete, I will lead you to our training grounds." His tone was earnest as he continued, "I will provide you with sacred texts to read each week, so we may discuss them during our sessions. Remember, we are vessels of the God. While we invoke destruction, know that from it springs renewal. Engaging in our combat arts is a profound prayer that requires your full attention. Excellence is our calling."
As they approached the temple, the crowd of gathering people surrounded them. They took seats at the front, even though Ariadna wanted to sit in the back. Vayan pulled her into position, making her feel the weight of the expectations resting on her.
While waiting for the prayer to begin, she recalled a time when she had resisted coming to this very temple and caused such a disturbance that she was removed. Vayan seemed focused and unaware of her past turmoil, or it simply didn't matter to him.
When the moment came, the candles lit up together, their flames bright with the holy light. Ariadna's sister Elena entered, followed by the twins, Mina and Lina. They stepped forward as the main priestesses, leading the prayers while their parents participated only during grand occasions.
Elena placed her hand on the altar and began the sacred chant, her voice carrying through the space. The crowd joined her, recited together, their hearts united:
*O Great God of Destruction and Renewal,*
*In the ashes of yesterday, we find the seeds of tomorrow.*
*Guide us through the flames of our trials,*
*Illuminate our path with the light of transformation.*
*With every ending, grant us the courage to begin anew,*
*For in the cycle of creation and dissolution,*
*We learn the strength of resilience and rebirth.*
*Embrace us in your fiery presence, O mighty one,*
*And teach us that nothing is lost that cannot be renewed.*
*In moments of despair, may we see the spark of hope,*
*In chaos, may we find the order of a new dawn.*
*Help us to accept the weight of our burdens,*
*And let go of that which no longer serves us.*
*As we face destruction, remind us of its grace,*
*For from every ruin, beauty can arise.*
*May we walk boldly into the unknown,*
*Trusting in the dance of endings and beginnings.*
Ariadna's heart resonated with the chanting, each word sparking something within her. She closed her eyes, feeling enveloped by warmth. In that moment, she reflected on the journey ahead—one tied to destruction and renewal—and the lessons she would learn.