The False Relic

It was oddly quiet—no insects chirping, no footsteps from the guards that usually patrolled outside.

It was as if the whole world had fallen silent. Heavy clouds loomed above, and in the stillness, the sound of leaves drifting to the ground was almost too clear.

Albert's senses were on high alert. He stopped short of leaving the room and called out, "Hello? Someone?"

No response.

'Damn,' he though