The silence inside the cathedral deepened until it felt like the entire world was holding its breath. A low groan of iron rang out somewhere ahead, echoing through the vaulted corridor like a warning.
Then, without anyone touching it, a massive door at the far end of the hall swung inward. Dust rained from its hinges as the old wood creaked, revealing a narrow passage bathed in an eerie golden light.
Shellia took the first step. Her staff glimmered faintly, emerald sparks curling around her fingers. "Stay close," she murmured.
Veyra's gauntlets clinked as she moved to flank Shellia. "It's never a good sign when doors open themselves," she said under her breath, her voice a mix of wariness and dry humor.
Kaelin's antlers brushed the low ceiling as she ducked through the doorway, muttering, "If this is another trap, I swear—"
[We're ready for anything.] Yuki's voice cut across the party's link like a gust of cool wind. [Stay focused. Something… strong is ahead.]
