Chapter 12

Ayana squinted until her eyes adjusted to the bright glow. They had entered a circular entrance chamber with many doorways branching off in different directions. Sentinels garbed in steel armor loomed beside each entrance, gauntleted fists clenched around their sleek halberds.

She stepped forward, eyes wide with awe. An elaborate hallway extended before her, illuminated by large bronze braziers along the stone wall. Brilliant flames danced on burning coals, swaying and flickering to their own crackly rhythm. The smooth polished floor reflected the high vaulted ceiling above, an expanse of milky white marble flecked with delicate veins of gray.

“I’ll take my leave, Lady Ayana.” Zelroth inclined his head. “The Commander will be here any span.”

Ayana nodded. “Thank you, Captain.”

He and his men marched into one of the doorways, their cloaks trailing behind them.