Confrontation!

Bang!

A resounding crash echoed through the cavern as a massive stone wall crumbled, dust and debris cascading to the ground. George, muscles taut and sweat glistening on his forehead, emerged from the wreckage, carrying Henry on his back. Another fighter staggered out behind him, their breaths labored. The dim light filtering through cracks in the stone illuminated the room ahead.

George squinted, his eyes adjusting to the new environment. "Is this it?" he asked, his voice hoarse but edged with anticipation.

Henry shifted slightly, his pale face lifting enough to survey their surroundings. Despite his weak frame, his eyes gleamed with fervor, a glimmer of obsession lighting them up. "If the directions were accurate… yes," he murmured. "This should be the core."

As George set Henry down carefully, the scholar's gaze fixed on the ruins before them. His breath caught in his throat. "What a beautiful place," he whispered, awe dripping from every word.