†NEPHEW†

Their guide's footsteps couldn't be heard again, and for a moment, the group was enveloped in an oppressive silence. The darkness seemed to press in around them, making it hard to breathe. Aria's senses were on high alert, as she strained to hear any sound that might indicate what was happening.

And then, suddenly, everywhere was lit up. The lights flickered to life, casting a harsh, unforgiving glare over the room. Aria winced, shielding her eyes with her hand as the sudden brightness assaulted her senses. The light was blinding, a searing intensity that seemed to burn away the shadows and leave everything exposed.