The moment Wataru stepped through one of the countless branched doors in the Corridor of Time and Space, his vision shifted instantly.
Inside the shrine, the undergrowth was overgrown, making the footing treacherous.
The surrounding walls were completely overtaken by vines and leaves, like ferns, giving the entire area a sense of being buried alive.
It wasn't as unnerving as the ancient city had been, but it was clear that the place had been long neglected and unmanaged.
Rusty, who followed right after Wataru, was visibly shaken by the state of the shrine. She pressed a hand to her mouth and looked clearly distressed.
"This is… horrible. I never imagined a shrine in this condition. I must report this to the central temple."
"The royal capital's gate wasn't exactly in perfect shape either. Is it really that difficult to maintain them?"
"Yes… There are very few believers who can even use the gates, and the church's financial situation is… well, not ideal. It's quite shameful."
