Chapter 203: The Chess Set
Leon’s voice cut through the stillness of the park. "Let’s go."
Riven glanced up from where he lay sprawled on the grass, his expression unreadable. "Sure," he said, pushing himself to his feet with a fluid motion. "But let’s take the scenic route back."
Leon didn’t object. He just wanted to move, to shake off the unsettling conversation they’d just had. As they walked, the opulence of the Lion Kingdom’s heart gave way to a different reality.
The cobblestone streets became uneven, the buildings less ornate. The vibrant market stalls were replaced by shuttered shops and crumbling facades. The air grew heavier, tinged with the scent of decay and desperation.
Leon’s brow furrowed. "What is this place?"
Riven’s gaze was steady. "The other side of the kingdom. The part that doesn’t make it into the royal tours."
Leon’s stomach churned as he took in the sight of emaciated children playing in the dirt, their laughter hollow. An old woman sat on a stoop, her eyes vacant, a begging bowl at her feet. A man with a weathered face and tattered clothes leaned against a wall, coughing violently.
"This... this can’t be," Leon murmured. "The kingdom is wealthy. There’s enough for everyone."
Riven’s voice was quiet but firm. "Wealth doesn’t always trickle down, Leon. Sometimes, it pools at the top."
Leon turned to him, disbelief etched into his features. "Does my mother know about this?"
Riven shrugged. "Maybe. Maybe not. Sometimes, officials hide things to maintain their power. They present a curated version of reality to those in charge."