Facing the Griffin...
The chamber was breathtaking.
The ceiling stretched high above, open to the sky, where golden light poured in through a circular opening. In the center of the room, suspended mid-air, was what he had come here for.
A sarcophagus… Hera's sarcophagus.
The sarcophagus was magnificent, crafted from pure gold and encrusted with gemstones that sparkled in the sunlight. It floated gently, held aloft by glowing golden chains that extended from the walls.
The chains pulsed faintly, their energy keeping the sarcophagus just out of reach.
Adrian stepped forward cautiously, his fiery chains igniting at his back as he surveyed the room. He knew it wouldn't be as simple as climbing up and freeing Hera.
As he got closer, the air became dense, filled with a clear feeling of pride and greatness. The ground trembled slightly, and Adrian stopped, his hand tightening on his sword.
From the shadows near the sarcophagus, a figure emerged.
A Griffin.