Page 70 of Fading Sun

“Look at those carvings.” Morgan moves toward one of the walls and traces her fingers over the glowing runes. “They’re beautiful.”

“They’re more than beautiful,” Damien replies. “They’re ancient, and there might be something in them we need to decode to get in.”

I glance at the steps that lead to the door, which is made of pure gold. “Maybe we should just knock. If no one answers, then we can try decoding ancient runes,” I decide, and I stride to the bottom of the steps, stopping to look over my shoulder at the three of them. “Are you coming, or not?”

After all, we’re a team. Decisions need to be made together.

Before they can reply, the temple doors swing open, and a radiant figure steps out. Her long, flowing robes shimmer like liquid gold, cascading around her like molten light. Her eyes, deep and clear, seem to hold the knowledge of the universe within them, and her expression is one of calm, gentle authority.

Damien, Morgan, and Blaze join me at the bottom of the steps, wordlessly watching her as well.

“Welcome, travelers,” the woman says, melodic and soothing. “I’m Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.”

She watches us carefully, waiting for a reply.

Damien is the first to speak.

“I’m King Damien Fairmont of the Uptown New York Clan, and this is my wife, Queen Amber,” he says, motioning to me. “We’re accompanied by Morgan Hawthorne of the Blood Coven, and Blaze Reinhardt of the Bloodscript Line.”

The goddess nods, as if she’s heard of our clan and their covens.

I can barely focus. Because Damien’s introduction of me is echoing in my ears.

My wife.

Queen Amber.

I’m never going to get used to that.

But now’s not the time to get caught up in thoughts of my new title. Because this is my mission, and I have to show it.

“We’re here for the Solar Scepter,” I say, trying to peek over her shoulder into the temple.

I assume it’s in there somewhere.

Unfortunately, the light around the goddess glows so much that it’s impossible to see inside.

“The Scepter is not within these walls,” she says gently.

“Oh.” I frown. “Then where is it?”

“It’s higher up the mountain,” she says. “This temple is the next steppingstone of your ascension.”

“There’s another trial inside the temple,” I realize. “Like the crystal trial to enter this realm.”

“Correct.” Her smile is both serene and knowing, in a way that makes me feel anything but relaxed. “This temple is the first of five you’ll need to make your way through. Each one houses one of the Five Dhyani Buddhas and will challenge different aspects of who you are: your intellect, strength, heart, courage, and compassion.”

“Which Buddha is in this temple?” Damien asks, as if he’s heard of these Five Dhyani Buddhas before.

Which, likely, he has.

“Vairocana,” Saraswati replies. “He embodies wisdom and knowledge. Your intellect will be tested here, in his temple.”

I’m decently smart. But for a challenge of intellect… I’m glad Damien and Morgan are here, too.

“When do we start?” Blaze asks, already prepared to grab his dagger, even though I suspect our weapons will be more useful for the strength trial than the intellect one.

“Your challenge begins now,” she says. “May the wisdom of Five Dhyani Buddhas guide you on your way. Safe travels, and good luck.”

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