The Heart of Nagarath
Footsteps crunching gravel, the royal palace came into view bit by bit near Leon. The shape grew clearer with every step they took alongside him.
Far past the garden's edge, tall towers cut into the clouds, edges bright under the slanting light. Expanses of courtyard spilled away in every direction, flat and shimmering like calm ocean floors. Along endless walkways, rows of pale columns stood close together, each one cool and unbroken as glass.
From every angle, sunlight caught golden details tucked into railings, nestled within arches, glowing faintly on balcony rims far overhead.
Money alone didn't do it. What mattered came after.
A shape of strength sat inside the rock. Stone held what force had made its mark.
Feet dragging just a little, the women moved slower without meaning to, gazes drifting over stone walls and rooftops, caught in silent wonder. Then stillness crept in.
