A calm expanse of sea stretched beneath the clear blue sky of Rinascita, its surface shifting in a slow and steady rhythm. Gentle waves brushed against the hull of the approaching ferry, their quiet motion accompanied by the low hum of the vessel as it neared the harbor. The air carried a stillness that felt almost deliberate, as though the day itself had yet to fully begin, resting beneath the distant watch of the Sentinel.

Beyond the water, Ragunna gradually came into view. It was the City of Echoes, thriving in harmony with its citizens and bearing the dignity of a sacred place long revered by many.

When you stepped off the ferry, the gentle sway of the voyage gave way to solid ground. The harbor remained subdued at this early hour, with only a handful of civilians scattered along the docks, moving about their routines in unhurried silence. The entrance from the terminal lay just ahead, and you made your way toward it without pause.

It was then that a lone figure near the entrance caught your attention.

She appeared to be a member of the Order, her posture relaxed yet faintly hurried, as though she had only just arrived herself. For a brief moment, she looked over the harbor and terminal with the quiet assumption that no passengers had yet come ashore.

“I’m relieved I was able to arrive in time… though I really should have come to check on things much earlier today. It seems the other acolytes are still occupied…”

That was right, it was the Carnevale Festival, and many were already engaged in the preparations ahead. It was going to be an eventful day.

At this hour, no other acolytes had arrived at the harbor. She alone had come to receive incoming travelers. Though she was already beginning to regain her composure, there remained a slight disarray to her appearance, likely from having rushed there not long ago. Her breathing gradually steadied as she surveyed the harbor once more, quietly taking in the scene.

It did not take long for her to notice you, and the realization seemed to reach her a moment later than she had expected.

“Please forgive my delayed welcome. The city is still making ready for the Ceremony of Carnevale, so I’m afraid the other acolytes are still assisting elsewhere for the time being.”

Her gaze remained steady, her attention now fully upon you as the quiet of the harbor lingered around you both.

With her greeting offered at last, how will you respond