Slotted Steel and Rising Draft

A flush steel grate was recessed directly into the dark hallway floorboards ahead of my path. I approached the perimeter, lowering the heavy tip of my broadsword onto the timber to anchor my weight before stepping onto the edge. Through the parallel metal slats, a cool upward current pulsed steadily against my chest plate. Dropping onto one knee, I inspected a small notched wheel nestled into the corner frame. I pressed my gauntlet against the lever, nudging it three millimeters forward. Below the grille, two internal metal baffles pivoted in unison with a muted mechanical click, dampening the airflow. A clean, efficient assembly.