Chapter 36: A Fractured Path

The oppressive silence of the Abyss was broken only by the sound of their footsteps as they ventured deeper into the chasm. With Damien unconscious, the weight of leadership fell squarely on Aria’s shoulders. She could feel the soldiers’ eyes on her, their trust and hope resting on her ability to guide them through the darkness.

Captain Roland walked beside her, his face a mask of stoic determination. "What’s our next move?" he asked quietly, careful not to disturb Damien, who was being carried by two soldiers on a makeshift stretcher.

Aria clenched her fists, her mind racing. The light that had erupted from Damien had driven back the creatures, but it hadn’t vanquished them. The Abyss itself still pulsed with malevolent energy, a constant reminder that they were far from safe. "We have to find the source of the curse," she said, her voice firm despite the fear gnawing at her insides. "Whatever is fueling this darkness, it's deep within the Abyss. We have to destroy it."