Chapter 60

• The ancient archives were housed deep beneath the stronghold, accessible only through a series of narrow, twisting tunnels illuminated by flickering torchlight. Amara, Asher, and a handpicked group of scholars and warriors descended into the dimly lit chambers, their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The air was cool and heavy, carrying the faint scent of parchment and centuries-old dust.
• “This place gives me the creeps,” Asher muttered, his voice low as he scanned their surroundings. “You sure we’re going to find anything useful down here?”
• Amara shot him a wry look. “If the artifact has a history, this is where we’ll find it. Keep an open mind.”