WHOOSSS!
The Paladins moved at once. Their steps were heavy and synchronized as they spread out and formed a wide circle around the city ruins. Shields locked into place, swords angled downward, and a faint golden glow began to rise from their armor.
At the center of the formation stood the Saintess, Hena.
Her posture was calm, her expression solemn.
Behind her stood Moreno, who had dragged Ethan along with him as if he were showing off a prized item.
Ethan looked forward for a long moment, then spoke softly.
"Sir, may I know what exactly is behind those pillars?" he asked. "Even with the power of light, I cannot clearly perceive it."
Moreno smiled, clearly pleased by the question.
"That's because light cleans filth and darkness," he explained casually. "But what stands behind those pillars isn't mana, nor energy, nor anything physical."
He tapped his temple lightly.
"It is intent. Or to be more precise, it is the will of a being."
