Nightmare in the Bloodstar Citadel [2]

Zhao Tian's body was dragged through the dimly lit corridors as his chains clanked loudly against the cold stone floor.

Every movement sent jolts of pain through his limbs, but Kaelith showed no mercy.

His vision blurred, yet he forced himself to remain conscious.

Every fiber of his being burned with exhaustion, yet he clinged onto the remaining strength he had.

The deeper they went, the stronger the scent of dampness and decay became.

The oppressive darkness seemed to stretch endlessly, broken only by the occasional flickering of crimson lanterns lining the walls.

The eerie glow bathed the path in a blood-red hue, casting long shadows that danced with malice.

Then, they emerged into the open.

The Citadel.

A colossal structure of dark stone and jagged spires loomed over him.

Its towering walls seemed to stretch toward the skies, and at its center stood a vast open courtyard.