The Gatekeeper’s Wrath

The Gatekeeper let out a thunderous roar, shaking the ground beneath them. Its massive, stone-like limbs scraped against the ruined bridge as it advanced.

Jin-Won's grip on his sword tightened. The notification still floated before them.

> [Mini-Boss Encounter: The Gatekeeper]

HP: ???

Weakness: ???

"This thing is no ordinary monster," Lyria warned. "Stay sharp."

Before anyone could react, the Gatekeeper lunged forward, swinging a colossal fist. Jin-Won barely dodged in time, rolling to the side as the impact shattered the stone beneath him.

"We can't fight it head-on!" Hori shouted, gripping his rusted pipe.

Lyria's eyes glowed faintly as she analyzed the beast's movements. "Aim for the joints! Its size means slower reactions—use that to your advantage!"

Jin-Won nodded and charged forward. He slashed at the creature's knee, but the blade barely left a scratch.

A new notification appeared.

> [Damage Reduced – Insufficient Weapon Tier]

His weapon wasn't strong enough.

Damn it!

The Gatekeeper roared again, sweeping its arm in a wide arc. The sheer force sent Hori and two others flying back.

"Jin-Won! Over here!" Lyria called out, tossing him a small glowing vial.

> [Item Acquired: Temporary Weapon Enhancement]

Without hesitation, he activated it. His sword pulsed with newfound energy, crackling with blue lightning.

Now we're talking.

Jin-Won dashed forward once more, this time aiming for the creature's exposed joints. His sword cut deep, and the Gatekeeper let out a pained growl as it staggered.

"We're wearing it down!" Hori yelled. "Keep going!"

The battle was far from over, but for the first time, Jin-Won felt something stirring inside him.

Not fear.

But power.

---

(To be continued…)