The moment the group stepped past the South Gate, the heavy stone door rumbled and shut behind them with a loud thud.
"They went inside!" one of the guards shouted from outside. "We can't let them reach the underground vault! Someone inform Master Yun, now!"
Inside, the air grew damp and colder. The walls narrowed into a long corridor, dimly lit by glowing crystals embedded into the rock. Each step echoed.
"Stay close," Gregory whispered. "The deeper we go, the more dangerous it gets."
Luke and Seraphina fell into step behind him, their eyes sharp. Ethan brought up the rear, watching their backs.
"So," Ethan asked casually, "what exactly is he hiding down here? Enough to bury this place in traps?"
Gregory didn't turn back, but his voice was bitter. "This place is Master Yun's lifeline. He keeps everything here—his smuggled gold, laundered money, private transaction records, and even blackmail files on top noble families."
Luke raised an eyebrow. Seraphina narrowed her eyes.
