The teleportation activated with a bluish flash, and a sensation of displacement took hold of Kael and his group. In an instant, they left the safety of the academy and appeared at the entrance of a colossal tunnel, carved into the black rock. The tunnel spiraled downward endlessly, swallowing the light as it descended into the depths. The air was dense and cold, carrying a faint metallic scent mixed with moisture.
Magical flames, floating atop stone pedestals, illuminated parts of the passage with a pale blue glow, casting flickering shadows on the sculpted walls.
At the front, Erika turned to the students, her black armor reflecting the ghostly flames around them. Her crimson katana rested on her back, and her cape swayed slightly with the draft coming from the depths.
"Keep moving and stay with your teams!" Her voice echoed through the tunnel, impatient.
