The Temple

Gra'akast

Alexis made her way around the temple as well as the throngs of pilgrims and of the faithful allowed. Some streets were packed shoulder to shoulder while others were slightly less crowded. She spotted stalls full of fruits and exotic foods, hawkers peddling their wares, with loud piercing shouts to be heard above the noise of the worshippers.

The overall comfortable atmosphere however was underlined by some tension, which was hard to pinpoint, but there was a sense of urgency, of unmet expectations among the crowds. A huge line of penitents waited patiently to enter the Temple of the Wandering, Alexis, noted that robed priests walked among them offering blessings and prayers.

Pigeons and colourful birds flew around free in the air , chirping happily as if they were praying with people. Several fountains can be seen around the streets leading to the temple, providing much needed water for the city visitors.

Once every hour, from the towers of the central temple came alive with intonation announcing prayer's time. What sounded like verses softly spoken are recited and those below kneel wherever they are.

The temple is a wide five-floor basilica. Pillars are designed to divide it into neat sections. Towers and minarets surround the Temples huge dome. There was a real sense that this was the Ozainae's holiest site, but a dangerous journey for Alexis.

Any misstep could have cost her life. Even disguised himself as a pilgrim, if exposed, the penalty for his indiscretion would most likely be death.

She dared not enter the temple yet. Too many people. What she needed was to find clues as to the location of the other two Obelisks...