As the day approached when the first group had to return, Elio shifted the focus of construction.
"We need to expand upwards," he announced. "We have to get as close as possible to the monsters so the group can retreat easily without absorbing too many cores."
Vertical expansion presented new challenges.
The weight of the tunnel increased with each meter they ascended, requiring increasingly robust structures. The elephants worked tirelessly, their trunks shaping the carbon with precision.
"Two hundred and fifty meters," Elio murmured, reviewing his calculations. "That's our goal."
The tunnel hummed with renewed activity. Everyone understood the importance of this final phase. Elio worked tirelessly, directing efforts and constantly adjusting plans.
However, as they approached their goal, a new concern arose.
"If we get too close to the monsters," Elio warned, "the tunnel's roof could become a target."
