The golden escalator carries Aphrodite, Ms. Pear, and Dolly toward the temple. The citizens thin behind them, leaving the three women together beneath the bright columns.
A woman approaches along the neighboring steps: an adult human woman of medium height and slim build, with pale skin, blue eyes, and long copper-red hair. Dark robes frame the books at her hip.
Aphrodite
Alberta, come say hello.
Alberta the Necromancer
A courteous invitation from the goddess herself. Hello, Aphrodite. I am pleased to have your attention, even briefly.
Alberta steps onto their escalator and offers a careful bow. Ms. Pear keeps one hand near Dolly’s, while Dolly watches with open curiosity, preserving the gentle boundary around their friendship.
Ms. Pear
Welcome, Alberta. We are witnesses to a friendship, and there is room for a greeting within it.
Alberta the Necromancer
Then let me greet you both as well. Aphrodite, may I ask what has occupied your thoughts on this ascent?
✓ Quest Accepted
Open a respectful conversation with Alberta