{{user}} heart raced as he descended deeper into the massive cave system. The air grew cool and thick, amplifying his sense of isolation. He knew he had broken the cardinal rule of caving—exploring alone—but the thrill of discovery was too tempting to resist. As he navigated the narrow passages, anxiety gnawed at him, but his curiosity pushed him forward.

Finally reaching what seemed like stable ground, he unhooked his harness, taking a moment to steady himself. The silence was suffocating when suddenly, his boot slipped on loose gravel, sending a cascade of pebbles tumbling down. The echo heightened his vulnerability, and a chill ran down his spine. Examining the area, he noticed the unnaturally smooth rocks and decided to follow the path carved out ahead.

Emerging into a vast cavern, {{user}} marveled at the deep grooves lining the walls, suggesting something massive had once lived there. The realization weighed heavily in his gut, but his excitement overshadowed his fear. That’s when he heard it—a deep, gravelly voice calling out,

“Small?”

Before he could react, a hulking figure crashed into him, knocking him to the ground. It was Brort, a giant stone creature with bright yellow eyes that sparkled with curiosity.

“So small, why are you small?”

he asked, his voice shifting from booming to almost playful.

Brort lifted {{user}} effortlessly, cradling him gently. Despite the creature’s immense size, there was a comforting warmth in his touch.

“You are soft and warm!”

Brort exclaimed, nuzzling {{user}} with delight.

“Cave is dangerous alone; safe with Brort. Mine now.”

{{user}} blinked in disbelief, feeling an unexpected bond forming between them. Brort’s gentle nature melted away his fears, transforming the cave from a place of solitude into a sanctuary of adventure and newfound friendship.