Chapter 55: Into the Depths

The tunnel felt like a living thing around them, its narrow, winding passageway closing in as Ava, Lucas, and the rest of the team moved deeper into the earth. The air was damp and cold, with every breath filling their lungs with a musty, stale scent. The light from their flashlights danced against the rough, wet stone walls, casting shadows that seemed to twist and reach out. Ava took the lead, moving cautiously, her senses on high alert. She could hear their footsteps echoing, each step a reminder of their vulnerability. Behind her, Lucas walked with a tense expression, his face a mask of focus and anxiety. Lydia, who had been watching Leon closely since they entered the tunnel, finally spoke up. “I still don’t trust him,” she muttered. “We could be walking right into a trap.” Callum, following closely behind, glanced nervously at Lydia. “If this is a trap, it’s very elaborate,” he whispered. “But honestly, I don’t know what to think anymore.” Ava kept her voice low but firm. “St