Tea, Gold, and a Sudden Awakening
"Guardian Elder is really humble. I've learned my lesson…" Kevin said quietly, bowing slightly.
Now his voice held nothing but honesty. Mockery had vanished completely.
After a pause, Leon stayed quiet.
A quiet moment passed before he raised the delicate cup, sipping the Imperial Vein Tea once more with deliberate calm.
A hint of sharpness hit at first - harsh, nearly jarring. This lingered on the tongue, much like struggle feels in the bones. Yet once he allowed it to rest, a deep heat unfolded inside his ribs, full and gentle, resembling relief earned through long waiting.
"…Mm."
He exhaled softly.
A gust nudged the bamboo shade past the timber walls. Through the open entrance, peach blooms floated inside, circling slow, ending close to where his feet rested.
Ah…
Money leaves a bitter flavor on the tongue.
A shadow of a grin touched his lips - then vanished just before it could settle.
