Adam stood alone at the peak of the sect mountain.
The sun hadn't risen yet. The sky was dark blue, fading into ash gray at the horizon. A cold breeze drifted through the high cliffs, carrying the smell of pine and silent stone.
Below him, the sect slept. Lanterns burned dim near the prayer halls. Disciples moved silently in the outer courtyards, starting their dawn meditations. The world felt calm. Still. Almost like it was holding its breath.
Footsteps approached behind him.
He didn't turn.
Kai stood to his right, silent, wearing dark training robes with a white sash tied at his waist. His sword hung at his side, tied with a faded blue cord Mina had given him long ago.
Mina stood to his left, wrapped in a simple grey cloak, her staff strapped across her back. Her hair was tied up neatly, stray strands framing her calm eyes.
Neither spoke.
For a while, the three of them just stood there, looking out over the valley below as the first line of light touched the distant ridges.
