Lyra led Arthur through the winding streets of the palace, avoiding the main thoroughfares and sticking to the shadows. They eventually stopped at a small, unassuming door hidden behind a tapestry.
"This is the entrance to a hidden path," Lyra explained, her voice barely above a whisper. "It will take us out of the palace and into the city beyond."
Arthur's eyes widened with excitement. "What's out there?" he asked, his voice full of anticipation.
Lyra smiled, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You'll see," she said. "But first, we need to get out of here undetected."
She produced a small key from her pocket and unlocked the door, revealing a narrow stairway that plunged into darkness.
"After you, Prince Arthur," she said, gesturing for him to lead the way.
Arthur hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding with excitement. Then, taking a deep breath, he began to make his way down the stairs, Lyra close behind.
As they descended, the air grew thick with the scent of damp earth and mold. Arthur could hear the sound of dripping water echoing off the walls, and the faint rustle of unknown creatures scurrying through the darkness.
Suddenly, Lyra's hand closed around his arm, her grip tight.
"What's wrong?" Arthur whispered, his heart racing with anticipation.
Lyra's voice was barely audible. "We're not alone," she whispered. "There's something down here with us."