Cain 4

Vell looked up at the stairs. They spiraled upward, disappearing into the darkness above. The air was also thick and heavy, pressing down on him like a wet blanket. He took a deep breath and started climbing.

The stairs were made of rough stone, worn smooth in places by the passage of time. As he climbed, he could feel the tower shaking slightly, as if something was moving inside it. He gripped the railing tighter, his knuckles white.

After what felt like hours, he reached a landing. A corridor stretched out before him, lit by flickering torches. The walls were covered in strange symbols, glowing faintly in what little light was available. He ran his fingers over them, feeling a faint hum of magic.

Suddenly, a noise echoed through the corridor. It sounded like a growl, low and menacing. He froze, his hand on the hilt of his sword. He listened closely, trying to pinpoint the source of the sound.