The darkness outside was closing in, and time felt like it was running out. They ran down the stone corridors that felt narrower with every step, while the roar from outside grew louder by the second. Cassie, who was growing weaker, struggled hard to keep walking. Her breath was heavy, each step felt painful, yet she pressed on. The echo of Elara's voice giving instructions sounded faint in her ears, and only her determination pushed her to go further.
They arrived at a large room, where an ancient altar stood in the center. Above the altar, a blue spring shimmered softly, illuminating the surrounding area. Elara stopped in front of the spring, her eyes shining with hope.
"This is it," Elara whispered confidently. "The healing spring. With this water, we can save you, Cassie."