The sound of Shaan and Theo's footsteps echoed through the long corridor as they hurried forward. They had already covered a considerable distance and were nearing the far end, but the dimming light made it increasingly difficult to find the staircase Miss Khaya had mentioned earlier.
"Dammit, where is that staircase?" Theo stopped for a moment and raised his oil lamp toward the darkness. "I don't see any stairs leading down."
"Keep searching." Shaan moved ahead, calmly scanning their surroundings. "I'm sure the staircase must be somewhere—"
"Hey, what's wrong?"
Theo snapped his fingers when he noticed Shaan standing completely still. "What are you—"
Shaan spun around, clamped a hand over Theo's mouth, and pulled him behind one of the few intact columns nearby. Keep your voice down, Theo," Shaan whispered. Theo fell silent. "Don't let them know we're here."
