The mountain shook again.
This time, it wasn't a tremor.
It was an impact.
The floor beneath John's feet lurched violently, throwing several people against the walls.
Stone broke loose from the ceiling.
"Move!"
Commander Gareth's voice echoed through the chamber.
The guards immediately pulled the injured explorers away from the center.
Lythriel grabbed John's arm.
"John!"
"I'm fine!"
He steadied himself.
The strange metal object was still in his hand.
It had stopped glowing.
But the warmth remained.
Another deep sound rolled through the ruins.
Not a roar.
Not quite.
It sounded like something enormous dragging itself against stone.
**Krrr...**
The entire chamber seemed to hold its breath.
Darius looked toward the floor.
"The seal..."
A crack had appeared across the circular platform.
Then another.
Thin golden light leaked through them.
John stared.
"That's not normal."
Darius gave him a tired look.
