The door pulsed with dark energy, blocking their path. Isla and Kai examined the shifting carvings, searching for a way inside.
"There has to be a way," Isla muttered.
Kai traced a swirling vortex symbol. "This matches the whispers we heard."
Isla studied it closely. "You're right. It's the same pattern."
The whispers weren't random—they followed a rhythm, a sequence of sounds hidden in the shadows.
"It's a key," Isla realized. "The whispers unlock the door!"
They focused, repeating the sequence, their voices blending with the murmurs. The carvings glowed faintly, and the door trembled. Energy surged, then faded as the lock clicked open.
A blast of cold air rushed out, thick with decay and dread. They exchanged a look, gripping their weapons.
They had unlocked the path. Now, they had to face what lay beyond.