Celeste walked through the long, dimly illuminated passageway that led into the holy land.
The smooth black stone beneath her heels echoed softly with each step, the air growing cooler and heavier the deeper they went, as if the place itself carried an ancient presence that pressed gently against their senses.
Lucius and Dorian walked ahead of them at a steady pace, while keeping their expressions unreadable as they led the way. Lilith remained at Celeste's side, her presence warm in contrast to the quiet solemnity that surrounded them.
For most of the journey, no one spoke.
The silence was not uncomfortable, but it was heavy, filled with unspoken thoughts and anticipation, especially knowing what awaited at the end of this path.
Until Lilith broke it.
She turned her head slightly, a teasing smile forming on her lips as her eyes slid toward her daughter.
"So…" she began lightly, her tone deliberately casual, "tell me more about my son-in-law."
Celeste let out a quiet breath.
