Vaughn, Alexei, and Ivan paused, momentarily disoriented in the sudden darkness. They could hear their own breaths, quick and shallow, as they adjusted to the unexpected blackout.
"What's going on?" Vaughn muttered, more to himself than anyone else.
"We should check it out," Ivan said, his voice steady and reassuring.
The three men carefully navigated their way outside the room, feeling their way along the walls. As they reached the hallway, a loud bang echoed again, causing them to freeze momentarily. Heartbeats quickened, but the sound seemed to come from downstairs.
"Candles," Alexei said, his eyes catching a flickering glow from below.
The trio descended the stairs, their curiosity and concern mounting with each step. The faint glow of candles grew brighter, casting long, dancing shadows on the walls. When they reached the bottom, they saw the source of the light: a beautifully decorated cake with lit candles surrounding it in the middle of the hall.
