The heavy wooden door creaked open, revealing a sight that made Aria's breath catch in her throat.
Rows upon rows of bookshelves stretched out before her, disappearing into the shadows of the cavernous room. The air was thick with the musty scent of old parchment and leather bindings, a smell that spoke of secrets long buried.
Lady Belstadt swept into the room, her black robes billowing behind her like wings of darkness.
"Welcome, Your Highness, to the true heart of Syux's history."
Aria stepped inside, her heels clicking against the stone floor. The sound echoed in the vast space, making her feel small and insignificant.
"What is this place?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
The lady's violet eyes gleamed in the flickering candlelight.
