With a low, grinding murmur, a section of the wall slid inward, opening like a hidden door.
Warm lantern light spilled out from within, cutting through the shadows of the alley.
The woman froze for a heartbeat.
Her pulse quickened.
"So it's true…" she whispered.
She hesitated only a moment before stepping forward, her boots crossing the threshold as the secret entrance welcomed her inside.
Inside the hidden passage, soft lantern light illuminated a narrow corridor of stone. The air was cool and carried a faint scent of incense, masking whatever smells might have lingered from the building above.
A man was already waiting, it's Harlan.
He stood near the entrance, dressed in a dark robe that concealed his body completely. A plain mask covered his face, leaving no hint of expression behind it. His posture was straight, calm, and disciplined, nothing like a common thug or guard.
The woman paused for a moment, studying him.
So secretive… she thought.
