When did this ruinous cavern become a tomb?
Deeper and deeper the path wound, delving into the unknown. Time forgotten, soon lulled into deceitful slumber. The years have passed away.

Through fitful dreams the body lay until hands, purposeful and unrelenting, shifted away the rubble that had buried long ago. Then a familiar face became illuminated by firelight.

As vision adjusted, recognition came with a faint smile as dirt was pushed aside.

Down from the surface, determined to recover.
“You came for me?”

A nod followed with your steady reply.
“Aye, you belong by my side.”

The body leaned against stone, caught in disbelief, unable to comprehend.

A slight turn as you move to leave draws weary eyes upward. The plea is made quickly.

“Brother, before you go, let me light my torch from your own. The passage lies broken, and I do not remember the way. I fear the depths will mislead me once again.”

Your head shakes.
“No need. You are coming with me.”

Doubt floods immediately, pressing to yield in defeat, return to the earth and drift forgotten into eternity.

A hand placed firmly upon the shoulder quiets a reeling mind.

“Have courage.”

A cross is produced and raised, brightening the path ahead.

“We return together.”