Stella slowly raised a finger, and a trail of shimmering light followed its movement, weaving itself into an elaborate pattern that stretched gracefully ahead of her.
Moments later, the glowing symbols merged together, forming a narrow pathway suspended in brilliant moonlight.
Achiku remained completely silent throughout the entire process.
She simply watched Stella with unwavering eyes, unable to conceal the overwhelming pride, relief, and reverence reflected upon her face.
After several quiet moments, she slowly folded one arm over the other across her chest before lowering her head in a respectful bow.
"We will meet again, High Priestess."
This time, Stella made no attempt to correct the title, nor did she deny it as she had done before.
Although she still could not understand why every answer she uncovered only seemed to create even greater mysteries, she could no longer continue pretending that nothing was happening.
