Chapter 38

Estan waited for a while, anticipating Maya's return, but as time passed, he began to worry. Finally, he decided to check on her progress. Walking back through the tunnel, he reached the entrance, scanning the area for any sign of her. "There's no sign of her," he said to himself. "Have you heard anything from her?" he asked the others who had gathered around.

"No," someone replied.

"What if she couldn't get past the first guard?" Estan pondered aloud.

"I don't know. Maybe she got lost or something," another person suggested.

"It's possible," Estan admitted, refocusing his attention on the tunnel. "Let's go check."

They ventured further into the mountain, reaching a small chamber. After thoroughly searching the area, there was still no sign of Maya.

"Come on, Maya," Estan called out, hoping she might hear him if she was nearby.

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