Jaeden sifted through piles of bones scattered across the chamber floor, finding occasional treasures among the remains but nothing substantial. His attention eventually returned to the massive throne at the room’s far end. Convinced the Minotaur had been guarding something significant, Jaeden approached it, noticing a star-shaped symbol etched above. As he examined the throne, he discovered a hidden tunnel behind it, revealing a dark passageway and the faint sound of rushing water.

He also found a star-shaped gem and a golden thread among the rubble, fashioning them into a crude necklace. The gem seemed to emit a subtle, mystical energy, and as he wore it, a draft suddenly brushed against him, leading him to the hidden passage. Just as he prepared to explore the tunnel, a slow clap and mocking laughter echoed behind him. Recognizing the sound, Jaeden rolled his eyes, taunted his unseen observer, and continued into the tunnel.

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The gem around his neck glowed, lighting his path through the winding passage. After a long walk, he emerged from the tunnel into a swamp, filled with twisted trees and murky water. Jaeden looked out in exasperation, realizing his journey was far from over.