Hermes's Arc

Chapter 1 of 2

Hermes stood at the edge of the Stoa Market Center, watching the crowd. His golden staff caught the afternoon light. Souls got lost here every day, trapped between worlds. He needed to guide them through the shadowy gates below. That was his purpose. That was everything. He needed a place to do his work properly. The market center buzzed with life and death, both mixed together. Lost souls wandered past living shoppers, unable to tell which world they belonged to anymore. A proper structure would help them see the path. A place where confused spirits could find peace and direction. Hermes lifted his golden caduceus. The two serpents twisted around the staff, their scales gleaming. Wings spread wide at the top. He touched it to the ground, and light poured from the tip. Golden marble rose from the earth, column by column. Crystal formed between the pillars, catching every ray of sun. Water cascaded down in gentle falls. The Hermesean Stoa took shape before him, glowing with purpose. He strapped on his winged sandals and stepped onto the first marble tile. The building hummed with energy. Here, he could finally guide the lost ones safely. Here, every wandering soul would find their way through the gates. His dream had taken form in gold and stone.