The Munchkins wasted no time, forcing George down the dimly lit passageway. He had to crouch as the tunnel was much smaller than expected. As they descended further, he raised his head and—*thud*—hit it hard against the low ceiling. "Ah!" he groaned, rubbing the sore spot, bending back down to avoid another collision.
The passage was a stark contrast to the beautiful architecture aboveground. While the surface had been intricately crafted, this underground tunnel was rough and hastily made, with no regard for aesthetics. Dirt crumbled from the walls, and uneven stones crunched beneath his boots as they led him deeper. Eventually, they reached a door—nothing hidden or secret this time, just a plain wooden door that creaked open. A gust of wind blew into the tunnel as it opened.