The next day, Kimberly sat cross-legged in the center of the temple, surrounded by the elders.
Their robes whispered against the stone floor as they settled into their places.
The air was thick with the scent of burning herbs, and the faint hum of distant chants resonated through the chamber.
The leader of the elders, a man with piercing silver eyes, studied Kimberly with a knowing gaze. His voice was calm but firm when he finally spoke.
"Kimberly, your training is progressing faster than expected, and we are pleased with your growth.
However, before we continue today's lessons, we need to hear from you.
What have you learned? What have you experienced so far?"
Kimberly took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. She had been through so much in such a short time.
The weight of responsibility pressed down on her, but she knew she couldn't falter.
"First, I want to thank you all for accepting me as one of your own," she began, her voice steady but filled with sincerity.
