Standing beneath the grand chapel’s archway, the ancient stones around us seemed to pulse with the night’s energy. My hand was firmly clasped in Zion’s, our fingers entwined as if letting go would mean losing ourselves in this moment.

The air was thick with anticipation, every breath I took heavy with the weight of the ritual about to unfold.

Elward, draped in a ceremonial cape and sash, stood between us, his presence commanding and timeless.

Behind him, the massive ...