The Path to the Treasury
Sunlight spilled low across the palace yards, golden hush washing over roof tiles while dusk leaned closer. Underfoot, shade pooled unevenly, shifting beneath Leon's steps as the soldier guided the way.
Stillness filled the halls, thick enough to weigh down each step. Not fear exactly - more like waiting. The air itself seemed paused, aware of one man walking where power lives. His name alone changed how shadows fell.
Footsteps echoed as they moved through the first courtyard.
Under the glow, the smooth stone floor stretched out, light-colored, almost soft in warmth. Usually soldiers filled each edge of the space, yet now just a handful remained - standing like posts, backs rigid, watching Leon with tension they held tight inside. A couple made effort to stare elsewhere. Still, some failed. Their eyes drifted toward him again and again, pulled without choice. Quietness settled where noise once lived.
