With the Chief Judge's briefing concluded, a flurry of intense preparations began.
First, the Priest from the Joyful Sect gathered everyone to bestow the blessing of [Shelter].
"You must stand as one, weathering this storm together. Support one another, know one another, and walk toward the future together. Learn to endure suffering, share joy, and embrace each other..."
Lloyd's brow furrowed as he listened from the side. 'There's something off about this guy's prayer,' he thought. 'It has an... improper feel to it that's hard to describe.'
The man had white hair and a white beard, giving him a venerable, respected appearance, yet he somehow radiated an aura of complete unreliability...
After the brief ceremony, Lloyd felt an invisible force descend upon him, blanketing his entire body. It felt like he had donned a suit of transparent, unseen armor—solid and sturdy, yet without the slightest hint of weight or substance.
