章 117: The Gilded Doorway

Fanfar felt the rush of cold water envelop him, pulling him into the surreal space. When he expected to see a new world with sweeping landscapes or mystical creatures, what met his eyes was something entirely different—a grand room. It was lavishly adorned, reminiscent of a Middle-Eastern palace with arched doorways trimmed in gold filigree, intricate mosaic floors reflecting the light of hanging lanterns, and silk tapestries that shimmered in hues of red, blue, and purple. The air was heavy with the scent of jasmine and myrrh, mingling with the soft strains of an unseen lute playing a mournful tune.

In the center of the room stood a full-length mirror, framed in elaborate silver and studded with tiny jewels that seemed to wink at him knowingly. Draped around it were sheer, colorful tulle and sequins that fluttered as if caught in an invisible breeze. The effect was dazzling, almost enchanting, but Fanfar shuddered.