The tunnel maintained a steady uphill gradient, until it eventually came to an end at the base of the Ardent Gate; the narrow passage gave way to a large circular subterranean chamber. Numerous other dark passageways connected to the chamber, along its circumference, creating an underground hub, of sorts. A winding flight of steps protruded from the chamber’s circular stone wall, affording access to the upper levels of the stronghold. Upon their arrival they had entered at ground level, just above her, yet a further four or five levels rose above that. The hub’s connecting tunnels were spaced equidistantly, though there was a space where one should have existed but did not. In its place was a large stone hearth, carved directly into the wall. A well-built Freylarkin sat on one of several w
