The ruins loomed before them, their ancient stone walls covered in moss and vines. Symbols etched into the stone pulsed faintly, as though alive.
"This place feels…wrong," Elias muttered.
"Stay sharp," Darian said, his voice low.
As they entered, the air grew cold. The floor was a mosaic of shifting tiles, and Liora immediately noticed the pattern.
"It's a puzzle," she said, studying the symbols. "Step on the wrong tile, and we're done for."
Elias handed her a notebook. "Here, use this."
With trembling hands, Liora began to decipher the pattern. Sweat dripped down her brow as she guided the group across the tiles.
When they reached the other side, Darian gave her a rare nod of approval. "Not bad."
Liora smiled faintly. "Don't sound too impressed."
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