The stairway to Floor 20 was different from the others.
Wider. Grander. Carved with ancient runes that pulsed with residual magic. The air itself felt heavier, charged with the presence of something powerful waiting above.
Boss floor.
"Everyone, rest here," Hendra commanded, calling a halt at the base of the stairs. "We take fifteen minutes. Recover resources, check equipment, prepare mentally. The Flame Drake is the most dangerous enemy in this dungeon. We approach it at full strength."
The team settled into rest positions, some eating ration bars, others checking weapons and armor. The nervous energy was palpable—nineteen perfect floors building to this final confrontation.
Rama sat slightly apart, reviewing the boss mechanics in his mind.
