Melodies of your Heart

The early gong rang, its sound resonating through the silent halls. Soon, the corridors filled with the bustle of servants, priests, and priestesses, each attending to their morning chores.

-----

Alora

"Miss, it's time. Please wake up." Mori's gentle voice stirred me from sleep.
She had already placed breakfast beside my bed and promptly helped me get dressed for the morning prayer.

As the huge door opened, I was greeted by the sight of Silas waiting for me. A small smile appeared on his face, and it dazzled me. Silas had an aloof demeanor, like a god looking down on mortals when he didn't smoke. But when he did, he could bring both men and women alike to their knees.

His smile was contagious; I couldn't help but grin. He followed me silently, matching Mori's pace.

Soon, we reached a massive door intricately designed with vines. As it opened, I stepped inside and was met with the gazes of all the Saintesses within. Ignoring their contemptuous looks, I walked forward.

"Heh." Someone sneered.

In the silent hall, the sneer was especially loud. I glanced in the direction of the sound and found Seraphina snickering.

I couldn't help but sigh at this. 'I'm going to have a hard time, aren't I?' I glanced at Silas. Contrary to my expectations, he was surprisingly calm and meek. Relief washed over me.

I longed for this feast to end so I could return to my village with Silas. I missed Maren and Seira. I missed the peaceful atmosphere we shared.

The silence broke when the Pope entered, supported by a priest as he made his way to the podium. Behind him stood the statue of the goddess herself, her hair styled intricately, her gown flowing as she gazed compassionately upon us.

"My dear Saintesses, let us all pray now to our goddess, Asteria," he proclaimed.

We all moved forward, kneeling down and clasping our hands in prayer. For a moment, the tension-filled hall was quiet and peaceful.

When we finished praying, a small bell rang. "Honored Saintesses, the Feast of Saintesses will commence in six days. Please assist in the preparations."

"Yes, Your Holiness." the Saintesses chorused."The morning meal has already been prepared. Please proceed to the dining hall." announced the priest responsible for the Pope's well-being.
The Pope slowly made his way back to his sleeping quarters.

"The escorts and ladies-in-waiting will dine in a separate hall. Please follow me," announced a middle-aged priest.Silas glanced at me, his eyes silently pleading for permission to stay at my side, clearly worried.

I shook my head subtly, urging him to go with the others. Reluctantly, he turned away, his expression helpless in the face of my unspoken request. It would have been amusing under different circumstances.

As he joined the departing crowd, the ladies blushed and stole shy glances at him.
Whispering and giggling. A small tinge of jealousy and annoyance crawled inside me.

But none dared to approach him. A cold aura seemed to create an invisible barrier around Silas, keeping others at bay. The scene amused me, and a bubble of happiness welled up inside.

I chuckled softly to myself and shook my head.

As we made our way to the dining hall, I found myself drawn to the paintings adorning the walls, each telling a story of its own."Quite impressive, isn't it?" I was startled by the sudden appearance of a woman beside me.

Glancing over, I recognized her immediately-the esteemed Saintess of the Ember Empire.

"Saintess Maelis," I greeted her.