Inch by inch, I got closer to the entrance and peered inside. The King's palace hall was nothing short of magnificent. The floors were polished marble, reflecting the light from the grand chandeliers that hung from the high ceiling. The air was filled with a faint scent of lavender, likely from the numerous vases of fresh flowers placed around the hall.
Just as I was about to slip through the door, I heard footsteps approaching. I pressed myself flat against the wall, heart pounding. A pair of guards walked past, engaged in a heated discussion about the recent increase in security. They stopped just inches from where I stood, oblivious to my presence. I held my breath, praying they wouldn't notice me.
"Shit… this place is something else," I whispered to myself as they finally moved on. Taking the chance, I quickly slipped inside, relieved to have avoided detection. "Come on, Axel. You're so close."