They led him through hallways Victor recognized from previous diplomatic visits when relations had been less strained. But then they turned toward a deeper section of the castle he'd never seen before despite multiple visits. Stairs descending into depths that shouldn't exist beneath the castle's foundations. Guards posted at intervals who retreated when seeing Goldcrest nobles making signals that this was an authorized entry.
They descended further through a long dark tunnel that seemed to go on forever, carved from rock.
"Here," the noble said finally, stopping before a massive door of ancient stone carved with symbols Victor didn't completely recognize despite extensive education in historical scripts.
They opened the door with the sound of the enormous heavy blocks reinforced with mana being dragged across the stone floor. Revealing darkness that descended beyond what sight could reach even with mana-enhanced vision.
