With her candle almost completely melted, Ariana inhaled deeply and pushed the heavy door open, only for a gust of wind to immediately extinguish the remaining flame, casting her back into pitch darkness.
Gripping the spent candle, Ariana proceeded, her mind racing with questions.
Shouldnt the Path of Dawn be illuminated? If this was truly an exit, why was it enveloped in darkness?
The place seemed more reminiscent of a sinister basement.
Realizing something wasnt right, Ariana attempted to retreat but discovered the door had closed on its own.
While she searched for the doorknob, a loud click resonated, and light suddenly filled the room.
Temporarily blinded by the brightness, Ariana closed her eyes.
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When she opened them again and her sight adjusted, she found herself in a room surrounded by surveillance screens that covered every corner of the castle, including the path she had traversed. At the center, there was a chair and a desk that was turned away from her, and it appeared to be occupied.
Ariana felt a sudden chill as she recalled the man from the arena.
Her instincts screamed that something was wrong. She turned to escape, pushing against the door, but it wouldnt budge.
Then, the man at the desk swiveled his chair around, his legs crossed and a wine glass in hand, and smirked. Congratulations! Youve found the right place.
Ariana turned and realized it was him-the man from the arena.
She pushed with all her might against the door, desperate to escape.
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However, the door that had opened effortlessly before now refused to budge.
Bennett observed her, wearing a smile. Since youve found the right place, theres no need to hurry away.
The right place? Realizing the door wasnt going to move, Ariana turned to face him, filled with anger and fear. This is your exit? Are you kidding me? Youre not planning to let me leave, are you?
Bennett didnt seem bothered by her accusation. He calmly set down his wine and said, Im surprised youve found here. I thought you might get eaten by the beasts on the way.
Ariana was too angry to respond.
Bennett supported his head with his hand and said, Youve done well. What reward do you want?
He spoke to her as if she were a dog that had just fetched a frisbee. His tone was condescending, and his stare was demeaning, reducing her to an object.
Ariana felt disgusted. It was clear why this man would strike a deal with someone as evil as Zayden.
Ariana was furious but knew she couldnt cause a commotion, especially not in this mans territory.
Still, she couldnt resist glaring at Bennett with intense fury. The only reward I want is for you to let me leave.
Bennett sighed, stood up, and began to walk toward Ariana slowly with his hands in his pockets. His smiling eyes sent a shiver down her spine.