Zami turned back toward the fallen beast, its massive, lifeless form sprawled across the stone floor. He crouched beside it, inspecting its heavily armored body. The exoskeleton was dense and glinted faintly in the dim light of the temple. Zami prodded at its joints and pried at its wings, searching for anything of value—a weapon, a resource, a clue about its origins.
After several minutes, he stood, shaking his head. "Nothing useful," he muttered.
Kiyo watched him from a distance, her arms wrapped around herself. The faint flicker of torches reflected in her wide eyes, betraying her unease.
Zami sheathed his katana and turned to her. "Let's move," he said, his voice steady but carrying a subtle edge of concern. They ventured deeper into the temple, the air growing heavier with each step.
The corridor stretched endlessly, lined with carvings of insect-like creatures in battle against humanoid figures. Zami glanced at the walls, taking note of the intricate details.
"This place," he said quietly, his words almost lost in the oppressive silence. "It tells a story. A war between humans and beasts. Or maybe something more."
Kiyo looked up at him, her expression questioning.
"Are you tired? Hungry?" he asked, his tone softening slightly.
She hesitated before nodding. "A little," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Zami slowed his pace, reaching for his pouch. He retrieved the few remaining berries he had and handed them to her. "Eat these. We'll rest soon."
Kiyo took the berries gratefully, her small hands trembling slightly. As she ate, Zami's gaze lingered on her, his thoughts racing.
"Why do they target her?" he wondered. "She's just a girl... or is there something more?"
Pushing the thoughts aside, he focused on the path ahead. The corridor began to slope downward, the air turning colder and more humid. The faint sound of dripping water echoed in the distance, mingling with the soft hum of the temple's eerie atmosphere.
"We need to be cautious," Zami said, his silver eyes narrowing. "Whatever's down here, it won't be friendly."
Kiyo clung to his cloak, her small frame dwarfed by his imposing presence. Together, they descended further into the temple's depths, the promise of answers—and danger—waiting in the darkness ahead.