*Briella*
The ancient doors of the temple groaned as we pushed them open, our entrance a resounding echo in the cavernous hall. The scent of incense and old stone filled my nostrils. Elders draped in flowing robes turned from their contemplation, their eyes widening at our disheveled appearance.
They immediately rushed toward us when they saw me among the others. “Lady Briella," they called.
"Briella," Kryzen gasped, his voice strained with pain and urgency. His broad-shouldered frame, usually so commanding, now trembled with exhaustion. We should have left him behind to rest. The journey was too harsh while he was still recovering from the jump between realms. I should not have let his pride win out.
The elders rushed toward us, their steps silent against the cold marble floor, and th
