Chapter 28: Rise
Julius stood atop the castle terrace overlooking the falls, contemplating the uncertain future ahead. Kirin joined him, tapping the edge as he shuffled next to his brother. “I have to say…you surprised me, Kirin. You have become a good leader,” Julius said.
“I had a good example and a few years to age gracefully,” he replied. The reunited brothers shared a moment of fleeting peace. The steady rush of waterfalls in the distance created a hum of serenity. “The ritual is nearly ready. We need one more day,” Kirin informed.
“Good. We can train during that time,” Julius replied.
“Xia never undertook the ceremony, did she?” Kirin asked.
“No, she did not.”
“I’m glad you found her again brother. In all honesty, I thought you had died at the Sanctuary. I had heard rumblings o
