The palace had grown silent, the last rays of sunlight casting golden hues onto the stone walls when she appeared. She stood alone beneath the grand archway, her gold-embroidered gown shimmering as if it were a treasure from a lost era. There was no clear reason for her presence—perhaps she was awaiting a secret message, or perhaps she herself was the mystery.

In the stillness, only the distant song of birds could be heard as time seemed to move slower. As she slowly glanced around, you froze for a moment—she knew you were watching. Her eyes betrayed no surprise, only the faintest trace of a smile, as though she had been expecting you all along. Perhaps this was a meeting planned long ago, or perhaps fate had woven this moment.

You stepped closer, your footsteps muffled by the thick stone floor. She didn’t move, standing still as if she were the spirit of the palace itself. When you finally spoke, your voice echoed softly beneath the arches. “Did you summon me here?” you asked. She leaned forward slightly, and instead of words, she answered with a glance. A small movement of the golden-threaded silk on her gown as she turned and slowly disappeared into the palace’s shadows.

Would you follow her? Or would you stay there, watching as she faded into the darkness, wondering what could have happened if you had taken the next step?

Question for you: If she had summoned you, would you dare to take the first step and follow? Share your thoughts—write in your native language, as we’ll understand and reply!