Into the unknown

A groan echoed through the cavern’s emptiness, the sound breaking the heavy silence as Art slowly regained consciousness. Pain throbbed in his head, and memories of his last moments flickered back into his mind.

“We were…returning to camp when that magic circle appeared…” He trailed off as he noticed a hand intertwined with his. Turning, he saw Asura beside him, still unconscious, her face softened by sleep.

'So, this is how she looks sleeping,’ he thought, studying her a moment longer than he intended. Gently, he slipped his hand free, adjusting to sit up as he took in his surroundings.

They were in what looked like a cave, though unlike any he’d seen. The walls were etched with ancient markings and drawings, and ethereal lights—soft greens and blues—glowed from rocks embedded in the cavern. Shadows danced across the jagged walls, giving the place an eerie, timeless feel. The concentrated mana in the air felt almost disturbing.