Mary stepped forward, adjusting her cloak before looking at the Goddess sitting in front other.
"I'll escort the goddess to her next destination. You and Carol are needed at the temple, after all."
Lilith and Carol both frowned at that, clearly reluctant to let Auriel leave without them, but they also understood the necessity.
Auriel nodded.
"That's fine."
Without wasting any more time, Mary turned and began walking, leading Auriel away from the ruined village.
Carol still looked frustrated but begrudgingly let them go.
"Stay safe, Auriel."
Auriel gave her a small nod before following Mary.
______
They walked in silence for a while, the wind whistling softly through the trees.
Auriel remained quiet, but her gaze was sharp, watching Mary closely. Something was off.
It wasn't until they had put a good distance between themselves and the village that Auriel finally spoke.
"Mary,"