The sun had barely risen when the elders gathered at the base of the shrine. Their movements were slow but deliberate, their faces lined with age and wisdom.
Dressed in robes that marked their seniority within the tribe, they ascended the shrine steps, their staffs tapping rhythmically against the stone.
Leon, seated on the altar, watched their approach with mild curiosity. The villagers had been coming to him throughout the day, but this was the first time the elders had arrived as a group since his awakening.
Tovik, the village chieftain, was at the forefront, his tall frame and commanding presence giving him an air of authority. Behind him, Yvanna and Lothar, two of the oldest members of the tribe, walked side by side, their eyes filled with quiet reverence.
As they reached the top of the steps, the elders bowed deeply, their gestures synchronized as though rehearsed.
"Great Relethis," Tovik began, his voice low and respectful, "we come before you to humbly offer guidance, should you permit it."
Leon gave a small nod. "Speak."
Tovik straightened, gesturing to the shrine around them. "This place, while sacred, is not fitting as your permanent dwelling. Our ancestors, in their wisdom, prepared a home for you atop this mountain—a place worthy of your presence."
Yvanna stepped forward, her voice soft but steady. "It was built generations ago, with the finest craftsmanship our people could offer. It is our hope that you will find it suitable."
Leon raised an eyebrow. "A house? On the mountain?"
Lothar nodded, his weathered hands gripping his staff tightly. "Yes, great one. The path is steep, but it is connected to the village by a single staircase. It was said that when you returned, you would dwell there, watching over us."
Tovik added, "We have maintained it over the years, ensuring it remains as our ancestors intended."
Leon considered their words briefly before nodding. "Very well. I will see this house."
The elders led the way, guiding Leon down the shrine steps and toward the base of the mountain. The villagers, busy with their morning tasks, paused to watch, their expressions filled with awe and curiosity as Leon passed by.
At the base of the mountain stood the staircase the elders had mentioned. It was narrow but sturdy, carved directly into the rock and bordered by a simple wooden railing. The steps wound upward, disappearing into the dense greenery that covered the mountain.
"The path is long," Tovik said, glancing back at Leon, "but we will accompany you to ensure your safety."
Leon gave a slight nod and began the climb, his steps steady despite the steep incline. The elders followed closely, their staffs tapping against the stone with each step.
The climb was quiet, save for the rustling of leaves and the occasional birdcall. As they ascended, the air grew cooler, the scent of pine and moss becoming more pronounced.
After what felt like an hour, the staircase leveled out, opening onto a plateau near the mountain's peak.
Leon's gaze was immediately drawn to the structure that stood before him.
The house was unlike anything he had seen in the village below. Constructed from polished stone and dark wood, it exuded a sense of timeless elegance. Tall, arched windows lined the walls, their frames adorned with intricate carvings that depicted scenes from Zarynthian lore. A wide doorway, flanked by pillars etched with ancient runes, marked the entrance.
"This is your home, great Relethis," Tovik said, his voice filled with reverence.
Yvanna added, "It was built with care and love, meant to serve as a sanctuary for you and a symbol of our devotion."
Leon stepped forward, his eyes scanning the details of the building. The craftsmanship was impeccable, every corner and surface meticulously maintained despite the passage of time.
Pushing open the heavy wooden doors, Leon entered the house, the elders following respectfully behind him.
The first room he stepped into was a grand hall, its high ceiling supported by wooden beams that stretched across the space. A large fireplace dominated one wall, its mantel carved with depictions of the tribe's history. Simple yet elegant furniture—tables, chairs, and benches—were arranged neatly, their designs both functional and decorative.
"This is the main hall," Tovik explained. "It is where the tribe will gather should you wish to address us collectively."
Leon nodded, his gaze lingering on the intricate carvings that adorned the walls.
The elders led him further into the house, showing him each room in turn.
One door opened to reveal a library—a spacious room lined with shelves that stretched from floor to ceiling. The shelves were packed with books and scrolls, their spines worn but carefully preserved. A large desk sat in the center of the room, its surface cluttered with inkwells and parchment.
"These texts were collected by our ancestors," Yvanna said, her voice filled with pride. "They document the history of our tribe, the teachings of our faith, and knowledge gathered from distant lands."
Leon ran his fingers along the spines of the books, their faded titles written in languages he didn't recognize.
The next room they entered was a bedroom.
A large bed, draped with soft linens, stood against one wall, its frame carved from dark wood. A small window overlooked the forest below, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
"This will be your place of rest, great one," Lothar said.
Leon glanced around the room, noting its simplicity compared to the grandeur of the rest of the house. Despite its modest design, it radiated a sense of warmth and comfort.
The dining room and kitchen were next—a pair of connected spaces that were both practical and inviting. A long wooden table, surrounded by sturdy chairs, filled the dining room, while the kitchen was equipped with stone hearths and clay ovens.
"We ensure that food is brought here daily," Tovik said. "The villagers will continue this practice to ensure you are well cared for."
Finally, the elders led Leon to the meeting room.
This room was smaller than the others but no less impressive. A circular table sat in the center, surrounded by high-backed chairs. The walls were adorned with maps and diagrams, their meanings unclear to Leon.
"This is where you may hold private discussions," Yvanna explained. "Should you wish to speak with the elders or any member of the tribe, this room is yours to use."
Leon nodded, his expression thoughtful as he took in the room's details.
As they finished the tour, Tovik turned to Leon, his tone reverent. "This house was built for you, great Relethis, as a place of rest and refuge. We hope it meets your expectations."
"It is… suitable," Leon said, his words measured.
The elders bowed deeply.
"We will leave you to settle in," Yvanna said. "If you require anything, simply call for us, and we will answer."
With that, the elders departed, leaving Leon alone in the house.