The narrow passage beyond the chamber twisted like a labyrinth, its walls closing in as they ventured deeper. Luke took the lead, feeling his way forward with cautious steps. The air grew colder with each step, almost biting, and a low hum reverberated through the stone, like a heartbeat resonating from the depths below. Ava followed closely behind, clutching the ancient journal she had discovered. She had yet to decipher all its passages, but even the brief glimpses she'd caught made her feel like they were holding a precious secret, one that might mean survival or devastation.
"This place is beyond anything we've encountered," Ava murmured, running her fingers along the weathered stone as if hoping to glean more insight from its touch.
Lila, stepping lightly beside her, nodded. "Whatever we find… I can feel it's something powerful. Something that's been waiting for us."
