The deeper Haru and Aiko ventured into the labyrinth, the stranger it became. The corridors twisted in impossible ways, creating disorienting loops and sudden dead ends. The air grew colder, and the carvings on the walls became more surreal, depicting dreamlike scenes and bizarre creatures that seemed to move when they weren't looking.

Aiko frowned as they reached a corridor that abruptly doubled back on itself, leading them in circles. "This place is playing tricks on us," he said, frustration in his voice. "We need to find the central chamber, but it's like the labyrinth doesn't want us to."