The final lock released with a loud metallic click.
For a heartbeat, no one moved.
The glowing crest beneath Salvador's hand slowly faded until only the lantern's warm light remained dancing across the ancient stone. A low rumble echoed through the passage as the massive door began to move inward, releasing air that had remained trapped for decades.
It carried the gentle scent of lavender.
Salvador froze.
His breathing caught in his throat.
"I know that scent."
His voice was barely audible.
Ella turned to him, searching his eyes.
"You remember it?"
He nodded slowly.
"I don't know how... but I do."
The opening grew wider until the room beyond revealed itself.
Unlike the dark passage, sunlight poured through tall windows covered with flowing blue curtains. Dust floated lazily through the golden light, making the entire room seem almost unreal.
It looked untouched.
Not abandoned.
Not ruined.
Simply... waiting.
Felix slowly lifted the lantern.
