The Kingdom of Earth welcomed them with quiet grandeur.
Massive stone gates carved into the cliffs opened slowly as Sophia, Noah, and Kaen descended into the mountain realm of Teralis. Towering pillars rose from deep chasms, connected by bridges of moss-covered marble and glowing crystal veins. The air was warm and dry, carrying the scent of mineral and time.
Sophia marveled at the way the kingdom breathed—stone shifted subtly underfoot, responding to motion like a living thing. It pulsed with an ancient calm.
"Home of patience," Noah murmured beside her. "And secrets."
They crossed the central courtyard where statues of former monarchs lined the path. All were stoic, weather-worn. All but one had a name.
Sophia paused before the nameless one.
"This one's unmarked."
Kaen stopped bes
