The ruins lay at the heart of a dense, misty jungle, where ancient stone structures stood partially reclaimed by nature. Vines twisted around crumbling pillars, and the sounds of wildlife echoed through the foliage. Leo, Sofia, Owen, and Evelyn moved silently through the underbrush, each with their own role in the mission.
"Are you sure this is the right spot?" Owen asked, keeping his voice low. He had a handheld scanner, which emitted a faint glow as he checked for energy fluctuations.
"It's where the readings converge," Sofia replied, her eyes scanning the surrounding trees. "But stay alert. Drake has a way of setting traps."
Leo felt the weight of the artifact against his chest, hidden beneath his Reclaimer armor. Since acquiring it, he'd experienced a surge of power unlike anything he'd known before. It granted him the ability to level up with each battle, but it also drew unwanted attention. If Drake Stoker knew about it, he would do anything to claim it for himself.
Evelyn kept her hands close to her chest, ready to unleash her healing powers at a moment's notice. "I can feel the energy shifting. It's like the jungle itself is alive."
They moved deeper into the ruins, following the map Owen had created. The air grew thicker, and the light from the sun barely penetrated the dense canopy above. Leo felt a shiver run down his spine, a sensation that had become all too familiar in these dangerous places.
"This is it," Owen said, pointing to a large stone archway. It was partially collapsed, but there was enough space to slip through. Beyond it lay a courtyard, with remnants of ancient statues and crumbling walls.
As they entered the courtyard, they were greeted by an eerie silence. Leo's senses were on high alert, his hand resting on the hilt of his weapon. Sofia took point, her keen eyes scanning for any signs of movement.
"Something's not right," Sofia whispered. "Where are the monsters? This place should be crawling with them."
Leo felt a surge of adrenaline as he stepped forward. The artifact beneath his armor pulsed with energy, as if warning him of impending danger. "Everyone stay close. We don't know what Drake's planning, but it's not going to be good."
Owen checked his scanner again. "The energy readings are off the charts. Whatever's causing this, it's here. But I can't pinpoint it exactly."
Leo felt the ground tremble beneath his feet. A low rumble grew louder, and the walls of the courtyard began to shake. "Everyone, move!" he shouted, just as the ground split open, revealing a hidden chamber below.
The team scrambled to safety as debris fell from above. The chamber beneath the courtyard was massive, with glowing runes etched into the walls. A swirling vortex of energy dominated the center, and standing beside it was none other than Drake Stoker.
"Welcome, Leo," Drake said with a sinister smile. "I've been expecting you."