The Central Church of Everbright was bathed in golden morning light, its vast hall steeped in silence as the faithful bowed their heads in prayer.
High Priest Orson stood at the rostrum, his long grey hair and beard illuminated by the sunbeams streaming through stained glass windows.
His piercing blue eyes scanned the sacred text of the Book of Essentia, his voice calm yet commanding.
"Goddess Eunomia teaches us kindness and selflessness," Orson intoned, his golden-white robes cascading to the floor, "but also resilience—to stand firm against infidels and the encroaching darkness."
A murmur spread through the congregation. Then, a sudden gasp shattered the tranquility.
Someone shot to their feet, pointing a trembling hand toward the grand statue of Goddess Eunomia.
One by one, others turned, horror dawning on their faces.
"What is the meaning of this?" Orson's voice rang through the chamber.