They reached the final landing, a long corridor lined with reinforced doors, each etched with faint sigils that pulsed in rhythm with the wards. The air here was thick, the smell of burnt ozone lingering, a byproduct of ether clashes and forced restraints.
Ashwin led him to the third cell. Outside, two alphas stood watch, both broad-shouldered and still humming faint currents of golden and violet ether, ready but silent. One of them stepped aside immediately, unlocking the observation hatch. The faint sound of labored breathing seeped through.
Victor didn't rush. He stepped forward with that same deliberate pace, shoes striking the stone with a measured rhythm. He looked through the narrow opening first.
