The chapel annex smelled like candle wax.
Selene had set up in one of the smaller prayer rooms adjacent to the main hall, a quiet space with stone walls, a single window, and enough room for two people to stand comfortably but not much else.
Selene stood across from Aegis in her white armor, hands clasped behind her back, her expression pleasant but focused. The warmth was still there, in her voice, in her smile, but underneath it, Aegis could feel the edge.
This wasn't a lesson. This was a test.
"Divine magic," Selene began, "is channeled through conviction and clarity of spirit. Unlike elemental or arcane magic, it doesn't rely on raw aether manipulation. It requires the caster to align their intent with a higher purpose. If there is corruption in your pathways, divine energy will reject you outright. There's no faking it."
"Understood!" Aegis said, with a bright smile.
