Dawn, in the Chantry’s prayer hall…
The lights, pews, and stained-glass murals gleam, freshly cleaned, dusted, and oiled by the night crew. Their meticulous labour transforms the prayer hall into a sanctuary waiting eagerly for the faithful.
Every day, before the sun rises… we’re here with everyone else in the Order of Selene. I’m in my school uniform, tie perfectly straight, while Anna dons her battle regalia – complete with that elegant black cloak of hers that flows gracefully in her wake. The other healers and paladins are just as polished in their robes and armour, ready to honour the sacred dawn.
In my previous timeline, mornings like these were a nightmare. Dragging myself out of bed for these prayers at dawn? Torture. Waking up to attend St Elicia’s was rough enough… but this? Way worse! But now, with all the strength I’ve got as a Healer… I can crawl outta bed and stay awake through most of this. Most days, anyhow.
But today’s different! I know what’s coming, and, well… I let the cat out of the bag to Anna. It’s okay, though – she promised to act surprised when Lady Iris tells her what’s up. I’m practically buzzing as we file into the grand hall, Anna by my side. She’s been unusually quiet, though – probably battling a stomach full of butterflies.
We slip through the crowd and take our seats, not in our usual spot but up front with Lady Iris. Usually, she sits alone in the first row. One of the Order’s oldest traditions dictates that only Ecclesiarch’s personal Paladin, the Executor, may sit beside her during these sacred rituals. But the Executor… she’s gone now. And so, the Ecclesiarch sits alone.
Dispensing with the usual formalities, we settle next to Lady Iris. She acknowledges us with a serene nod, her gaze calm as she watches the final preparations for morning prayers unfold. And uh… Lady Iris, regal in her white and gold holy robes that shimmer with potent enchantments, is an especially striking figure! Honestly, seeing those robes up close makes me ache for my own. They were warm, comfortable and brimming with powerful enchantments just like hers. My school uniform? Not so much.
Hopefully, Rinnah willing… I’ll have robes of my own again soon. Hey, a girl can dream!
“Lady Ishii. Anna…” Lady Iris greets us softly, her eyes flicking to Anna. “From the look in your eyes, I suppose you already know what I am about to say.”
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“Umm… it’s true, Mom!” Anna admits, her face flushing bright red as she places a hand on her cheek. “Sorry! I got too excited and, umm… I begged Arisa to tell me.”
“Nah, that’s on me,” I chime in, grinning sheepishly as I scratch the back of my neck. “I couldn’t help it! It’s big news, and uh…”
“But are you ready for what comes next, Anna?” Lady Iris asks, her voice gentle yet firm. “You have done well under Lady Ishii’s guidance in such a short time. Despite the challenges you have faced… you have endured.”
“Yes, I have. I’ve faced every challenge head-on!” Anna replies earnestly. “And I’m ready for whatever comes next!”
“Good. Keep that resolve close to your heart – it will serve you well,” Lady Iris answers warmly before turning to me. “ As for you, Lady Ishii…”
“Yeah?”
Lady Iris produces an envelope stamped with a purple and gold wax seal. It’s the insignia of the Oracle’s Eye – the symbol of Sharmarli, the Holy City. And as I look at it… my heart skips a beat because I know what this is – it’s an invitation to the Holy City of Sharmarli, across the Silent Sea, for an audience with the Oracle in the Palace of Lights!
In the previous timeline, this letter heralded the beginning of my Prophecy in earnest. It was the start of my journey with Anna to gather the six Lesser Shards to recreate the Runestone. And with it… slay the Demon Lord in the dark and frozen heart of Arcadia.
But this time, it arrived for me months earlier than it did in the previous timeline. Going back in time must’ve really changed things in this new timeline, eh? First, the Shadow Fiend in Highgrove Warrens… and now, this as well. For better or worse, that remains to be seen.
“Does Lady Mezalune know about my… ‘situation’?” I ask hesitantly, lowering my voice. “You know, the whole me-going-back-in-time thing.”
“She does,” Lady Iris confirms with a nod. “For that, she is most eager to meet you.”
“That does sound very much like her.”
“Indeed. With recent events in mind, time is of the essence,” Lady Iris continues. “But proper preparation is still of utmost importance. Anna will not accompany you until she becomes a fully-fledged Paladin. To achieve that, you must both undertake the Trial of the First Saint.”
I grin. “Wouldn’t have it any other way, right, Anna?”
“Right!” Anna exclaims, her excitement spilling over. “Don’t worry, Mom! We’ll tackle it together and succeed as a team! We’ve been training for this!”
A smile softens Lady Iris’ usually composed features. “Yes. And I shall pray for both of you – especially you, Anna – that you may find the strength and courage to face whatever lies ahead, no matter the obstacles in your path.”
Her words hang heavy in the air, yet the fire in my chest burns brighter and brighter. As the prayer hall quietens, as morning prayers begin in earnest… Anna and I meet each other’s gaze and share a resolute nod.