The narrow staircase spiraled downward, its steps carved from the same ancient stone as the chamber above. Each footfall echoed ominously, the sound swallowed by the heavy silence that enveloped them. The faint glow of the Heaven Water grew stronger with every step, a beacon that seemed to call out to their very souls.
"Stay sharp," Li Wei said, his voice cutting through the tension. "This isn't over yet."
The air was dense, laced with a subtle, acrid scent that made breathing slightly labored. Mei Chen brushed her fingers along the damp walls, her expression unreadable. Jin Rui's grip tightened on his staff, and Li Jun's spear glinted faintly in the dim light. Zhou Wei walked with measured steps, his sword held at the ready.
"How much further?" Mei Chen asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
