Story 485: The Scarlet Staircase

The team emerged from the golden light into an expansive, opulent hall. The room was a stark contrast to the ominous chamber they had just left behind. Warm wooden tones, intricate carvings, and flickering chandeliers greeted them. At its center stood a grand staircase, draped in a deep crimson carpet that seemed to pulse faintly, as though alive.

“Whoa,” Viper muttered, her voice bouncing off the high-vaulted ceiling. “This is... unexpected.”

Bulwark’s eyes scanned the room, his instincts on high alert. “Don’t let the décor fool you. This place reeks of danger.”

Rook motioned for the team to fan out and investigate. “Stay sharp. This place isn’t welcoming us—it’s testing us.”