The Enemy's First Move

When the clock struck nine that morning, the tired choir, who had been singing since dawn, became reinvigorated. 

Landmarks in the Holy City had been decorated with white petals, and the cool morning breeze carried these petals throughout the city, bathing it in white. When the rays of sunlight landed on the petals, they emitted a golden glow, making the city resemble a tranquil sea with gilded waves.

Moved by the beautiful landscape, the believers hurried to meet the Pope at the main entrance to the Canningham Basilica. Only moments later, they began to sing loudly and passionately. 

As they sang, the sky started to change color, turning hazy as the heat covered the realm as though it were silk linen. At that moment, it was as though Isythre had been set alight.