45. So Much For Atheism

Jason travels to the Island’s temple district, uneasy about the world’s many gods. Observing the gaudy competition of temples around the Divine Square, he notes a starkly plain, blocky building marked with a scroll and suspects it is the Temple of Knowledge. He also remarks on an imposing tower of Dominion, emblematic of rule and obedience.

Jason chats with a local runic man, Arash, who explains Dominion’s role and suggests Liberty as a counterpoint. When a radiant, towering figure manifests across the square, Arash identifies him as the god Hero. While everyone kneels, Jason remains standing, casually waves, and quips about names. A melodious, unseen female voice—carrying a powerful, clean-scented aura—speaks near him, hinting she wanted to be his first divine encounter. Arash urges obedience, but Jason rejects kneeling as respect and walks away.

Jason confirms the unadorned building is the Temple of Knowledge. Gabrielle, the acolyte who previously tested his essences, greets him, saying the goddess foretold his arrival. Inside, Jason senses the temple’s pervasive, restrained aura while passing rows of books and preserved scrolls. He and Gabrielle discuss the difference between worlds with and without manifest gods.

Gabrielle leads Jason to a plain set of ancient-feeling double doors, explaining the temple hosts a room for questions where the goddess answers in various forms. Jason steps through alone as the doors close, prepared to seek direct answers from the goddess of knowledge.