The air inside the sanctuary grew heavier with every step. The torches set along the cracked walls burned with a pale, unnatural flame, their glow stretching shadows across murals that depicted armored figures kneeling before a colossal being Noel didn't recognize.
Selene's steps were silent, precise, wand steady at her side. Her voice broke the stillness, quiet but sharp. "Where are we, really?"
Noel exhaled, his hand brushing the hilt of Revenant Fang. "Doesn't matter. What matters is we stay alive and figure a way out." He glanced at her from the corner of his eye. "Best chance is sticking close."
For a moment, Selene's pace faltered. The faintest trace of color touched her cheeks, though her expression stayed controlled. She didn't answer.
"You alright?" Noel pressed, tone even.
"Yes." The word came too quickly, too sharp. Her gaze stayed fixed ahead. "Focus."
He smirked faintly. "That's what I'm doing."
