The radiant glow of the sun stretched across the shiny stairway as Lucien, flanked by Maid Marie and Knight Rex, descended from the towering temple of the Church of Elyssira. Their footsteps echoed in rhythm over the polished white marble, which transitioned gradually into the darkly veined stone path leading to the outer gates.
Awaiting them at the base of the temple was a sight that contrasted the chaos they had just left behind—a scene of disciplined order. Two luxurious carriages stood proudly, each adorned with intricate silver detailing, the crest of House Velebrandt emblazoned on the doors: a winged lion roaring into the sky. Surrounding them were six mounted knights in full plate armor, their helms forged in the style of dragon maws, their white capes trimmed with crimson. They sat atop colossal steeds with flaming manes and obsidian skin that shimmered in the waning light—A-Rank Infernal Warhorses, bred for both intimidation and speed.
