"Operation Shiny Distraction"

As they watched, the Tunnel Wrecker continued to paw at the ground, unearthing a glimmering object that caught the faint light—an ornate pendant, intricate and sparkling like it had been crafted by a master jeweler. The creature sniffed it, letting out a low growl of disdain before pushing it aside, as if deeming it unworthy of its attention.

"Now's our chance!" Alex whispered urgently, adrenaline surging through him. "If we can get that pendant, we might be able to negotiate with it."

Mortimer nodded, his expression a mix of determination and caution. "Alright, on my count, we'll make a dash for it. Ready?"

Alex took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. "Ready as I'll ever be," he replied, heart racing as he prepared for the sprint that could determine their fate. The Tunnel Wrecker's growls echoed ominously, reminding him just how close danger lurked.

"Three... two... one... go!"

With hearts pounding, they both moved stealthily, keeping low to the ground as they crept toward the spot where the Tunnel Wrecker had discarded the pendant. The creature remained engrossed in its digging, oblivious to the potential intruders inching closer.