53: Meaningful strides - Part 2

Elias walked through the temple with steady steps, his destination clear in his mind. The inner praying chamber was hidden deep within the temple, accessible only to those who held the rank of priest or higher. 

It was a sacred space — home to a branch of the World Tree, Yggdrasil, believed to be connected to the gods themselves.

The air grew cooler as Elias entered the chamber, the scent of moss and ancient wood filling his senses. 

The light was dim, with only the soft glow of enchanted candles illuminating the space. In the center of the chamber, a twisted branch of the World Tree rested on an altar of polished stone.

Elias approached the altar, his steps slow and reverent. He knelt before the branch, lowering his head until his forehead touched the ancient wood.

"Gods," he whispered. "What should I do?"

Silence stretched around him. The gods did not answer. They never did.