Chapter Sixty Two: The Secret Passage

The trap door had a metal surface had weathered with the centuries gone by. It was now adorned with a thick layer of rust that hinted at its antiquity. Every groove and crevice on its surface bore the marks of decay.

At first glance, it appeared fragile, as if it could crumble with the slightest touch. However, as Tharnis exerted his strength to pry it open, Velma's initial doubts were dispelled. The trap door resisted, revealing its strength beneath the corroded exterior. It groaned and creaked in protest against the force applied.

As the trap door yielded to Tharnis' efforts, a cloud of metallic dust erupted into the air. The particles, long trapped within the layers of rust, were liberated, dancing in the air. The duo found themselves engulfed in the swirling haze, their lungs invaded by the residue. Coughs erupted from their throats, and a stinging sensation clouded their eyes.