The world holds far more wonders than the eight commonly recognised, and the Temple of Ho Chin is one such marvel. Perched atop a submerged island, it rises on wooden stilts, creating the illusion of floating upon the vast ocean. It is said that Venice’s design in the 5th century was inspired by this temple, as refugees fleeing the mainland after the fall of the Roman Empire sought sanctuary in the lagoon islands.

The temple guard is divided into two elite factions: the HoNas (male warriors) and the HoNes (female warriors). Both undergo rigorous martial training, embodying the dual aspects of combat—strength and mental prowess. Within the temple’s pools, the Kio, a species that has adapted to saltwater over centuries, thrives. Dominating the central garden stands a cherry tree over two thousand years old, the sole remaining testament to the island’s original existence.