Chapter 39: The Forbidden Pathway
The massive doorway of shifting shadows loomed before them, its ancient runes pulsing with an eerie glow. A low hum resonated through the chamber, as if the dungeon itself was breathing, whispering secrets only the boldest dared to uncover.
Jin clenched his fists. "A hidden path? This dungeon keeps getting more interesting."
Aerin examined the runes, her emerald eyes narrowing. "These symbols… They're not just any dungeon script. This is a mix of Abyssal and Celestial markings. Whoever built this place wanted to keep something locked away."
Lee Hwan placed a hand on the stone frame. "And yet, here we are, invited in like VIP guests." He smirked. "I say we check it out. This could lead to something even greater."
Jin considered the risk. They had already defeated the Abyssal Guardian and claimed valuable loot. Going further meant stepping into uncharted danger. But…
> [Abyssal Depths – Forbidden Pathway Unlocked.]
[Enter the Unknown?]
[Yes] / [No]
His instincts told him this was a chance too rare to ignore.
"We're going in." Jin decided.
The moment they stepped forward, the door responded, dissolving into a swirling vortex of darkness. A chilling wind rushed past them, carrying the scent of ancient dust and something… unfamiliar.
The trio exchanged glances before crossing the threshold.
---
Inside the Abyssal Depths
The passage beyond the doorway was unlike anything they had seen before. Instead of the crumbling dungeon walls, they found themselves in a vast underground city, its towering structures made of obsidian and glowing azure crystals.
Strange floating lanterns illuminated the streets, casting long, eerie shadows. Faint whispers echoed through the air, yet no figures were in sight.
Lee Hwan let out a low whistle. "This isn't just another dungeon chamber. This… This was a civilization."
Aerin pointed at a distant monolith. Ancient runes covered its surface, glowing faintly. "We need to figure out what happened here."
Jin nodded but kept his hand on his sword.
Something was watching them.
> [Warning: You Have Entered the Abyssal Depths – No Return Until the Path is Cleared.]
A deep growl rumbled from the shadows. Several red eyes flickered in the darkness between the buildings. Then—
The first creature stepped into the light.
It was twice the size of a normal human, its body wrapped in shadowy tendrils that slithered around its frame. A jagged, gaping maw split its face, revealing rows of crimson fangs.
[Abyssal Warden – Level 65]
Jin gritted his teeth. "Get ready. We're not alone down here."
Aerin unsheathed her twin daggers, her stance low. "I hope whatever's left in this city isn't all hostile…"
Lee Hwan spun his warhammer, smirking. "Let's find out."
The Abyssal Warden lunged.
Jin met its charge head-on.
The battle for the Abyssal Depths had begun.
---
To be continued…