Descending the narrow, spiraling staircase, the air grew colder, the stone walls damp with the history of the castle's past. The torches flickered, casting long shadows that danced across the rough-hewn steps. Each step we took echoed in the hollow silence that enveloped us. Zephara's hand in mine was the only warmth in the chilling descent.
The dungeon door loomed before us, a formidable barrier of aged oak and iron. Zephara's grip tightened as she reached for the heavy ring that served as the door's handle. With a determined pull, the door groaned open, protesting its own movement after what seemed like ages.