Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Finding the 'Heart of the World'

As Sam descended deeper into the ruins, the atmosphere around him grew heavier, charged with an ancient energy that seemed to seep through the walls. The staircase was steep, carved from solid stone, and it spiraled downward in a way that made him feel as though he was being drawn into the very core of the earth. The ball of light floated beside him, its warm glow the only source of illumination in the oppressive darkness.

At last, the staircase ended, opening into a vast underground chamber. Sam stepped onto the cold, smooth floor and let out a low whistle as he took in the sight before him. The chamber was immense, with walls that stretched far beyond the reach of his torchlight. At its center, on a raised platform, stood an enormous crystalline structure, pulsating with a soft, rhythmic glow. It was as if the crystal itself was alive, breathing in sync with the world around it.