The shrine stood atop the mountain like something out of a dream, a massive wooden temple, every beam and pillar intricately carved with ancient patterns, dark teak glowing softly in the afternoon sun. It rested peacefully away from the world, surrounded by mist and pine, the air cooler and thinner up here, carrying the faint scent of incense and cedar. The entire structure felt timeless, almost floating above the clouds.
"Wow… it's really beautiful," Lan said quietly as we drew closer, her voice hushed with genuine awe. Everyone slowed their pace, taking it in, the way the sunlight filtered through the open latticework, casting long shadows across the stone path leading to the entrance.
As we reached the heavy double doors, two men with shaved heads and simple white robes stepped forward to greet us.
"Welcome, everyone," one said with a calm bow, voice steady and warm.
