Story 445: Chains of Memory

As the suffocating darkness swallowed the room, Rook felt the cold bite of the shackles around his wrists and ankles intensify. A faint light emanated from the runes on the walls, casting an eerie glow. The rest of the team could only watch helplessly, frozen in place as an unseen force pinned them to the walls.

“Commander!” Viper shouted, struggling against the invisible restraints.

Rook’s voice was steady, though his face betrayed a hint of uncertainty. “Stay focused. I’ll get through this.”

The spectral entity materialized once more, its chains slithering like serpents. “Your trial begins now, mortal. The chains of despair will reach into your memories. Face your greatest failures, or be consumed by them.”