I felt pressure building behind my eyes, like something old was trying to rise to the surface. A memory? A feeling? I didn't know. It was just out of reach. Like fire behind a curtain.
My hand moved again. Even though every part of my body told me not to, I placed my palm flat against the mark.
There was a click.
A slow, low groan.
The door began to open, slowly and gently. Like it had been waiting for someone to return.
A rush of air poured from the chamber beyond. It wasn't cold. It wasn't dry.
It was warm and shoothing. It brushed against my skin like breath.
And I heard it.
A sigh.
Not from wind.
From something breathing.
I stepped back. My pulse pounded in my ears. My legs wanted to run, but my heart… my heart told me to stay.
Behind me, I heard the others draw their weapons, ready for anything.
I turned to them, keeping my voice calm but clear.
"Whatever is in there," I said, "we don't go in with our swords swinging."
Keren narrowed his eyes. "Cassian..."
