Chapter 242: They're different...

The two of them—Adrian and Selene—approached the pedestal cautiously, but the hourglass remained still, its glow dimming as if it had run out of energy. Behind the pedestal, a faint outline in the stone wall caught Adrian's attention.

He placed a hand on the surface, feeling for any hidden mechanisms. Selene joined him, her keen eyes scanning the carvings for clues.

"Here," he said, pointing to a barely visible inscription. Then he pressed it.

With a low rumble, the wall shifted, revealing a narrow passage that descended deeper into the earth. The faint glow of magical energy illuminated the path, casting eerie shadows on the walls.

"This is it," Adrian said, his voice heavy with anticipation.

Selene stepped forward, her dagger at the ready. "Let's finish this."