The three stepped into the passage. Behind them, the entrance from the antique shop closed silently, and the tapestry returned to its original state.
The air in the passage grew damp and cold, carrying a distinctive scent of earth mingled with ancient magic.
Lupin felt an invisible pressure surge toward him from all directions, bearing down on his senses.
The pressure was not physical. It was more like a mental burden, as though countless eyes were watching from the shadows, scrutinizing every intruder.
He instinctively tightened his grip on his wand. Only the familiar feel of it against his fingertips gave him a little reassurance.
The walls on either side of the passage were not smooth masonry but rough rock, carved with ancient Roman runes.
These runes flickered in and out of sight under the faint magical light, exuding an ancient, mysterious aura.
Yet woven between these ancient runes was the glow of modern magical wards. They shimmered in complex geometric patterns, forming one invisible barrier after another.
Isabella explained to Lupin:
"These are defensive wards, meant to keep out uninvited guests, especially spies from the Church. I mean in the past..."
Her voice carried through the passage with a slight echo.
Douglas swept his gaze over the runes and wards. He was no longer the person he had been four years ago.
Especially over the past two years, his growing knowledge meant that these runes no longer looked as obscure to him as they once had.
As they walked, Douglas explained:
"This was originally part of the ancient Roman sewer system. It was later transformed by magic into a hidden center of power.
"Capitoline Hill was a symbol of power back in ancient Roman times. Choosing it as their headquarters both continued that tradition and helped them counter infiltration