The Hall of Passage was built to inspire awe.
Three towering archways dominated the chamber, each carved with the sigils of one of Umbral's ruling Houses. Where they met in the center, a platform of crystallized shadow held the space where climbers would present their seals and receive permission to advance.
Dante stood before the platform with his team arrayed behind him, the three House seals arranged in his hands like fragments of a promise. Representatives from each House occupied their designated positions: Councilor Thaelan for Velran, Commander Vahren for Morveth, and the ancient Draveth for Silren.
Across the hall, Adrian waited with his own group, his expression neutral despite the tension that crackled between them.
"We are gathered to witness passage," Draveth intoned, his voice carrying through the hall with ceremonial weight. "Two parties have earned the approval of all three Houses. Two parties shall ascend to Floor 16."
