The Gate of Escape

The shifting darkness of the Forbidden District thickened, and the whispers grew louder, pressing into their minds like a suffocating fog. Every time a Wraithborn was struck down, another emerged from the shadows, more vicious than the last.

"We can't keep fighting like this!" Hori shouted, panting heavily as he backed away.

Lyria's glowing eyes scanned their surroundings, her fingers tracing faint magical sigils in the air. Suddenly, she pointed toward a crumbling tower at the end of the stone-paved street. "There! An old gate—it's our way out!"

> [Point of Interest Discovered: The Abandoned Spectral Gate]

Jin-Won and Hori exchanged glances. They had no other choice.

"Move! Now!" Jin-Won commanded, slashing his way through the swarm of enemies.

But the path wasn't easy. The closer they got to the gate, the more aggressive the Wraithborn became, as if they knew the group was trying to escape.

"I'll hold them back!" Lyria shouted, raising her hands.

> [Skill Activated: Spectral Light Barrier]

A golden shield erupted around them, forcing the creatures back just long enough for them to reach the gate.

As Jin-Won placed his hand on the ancient stone beside the entrance, a soft blue glow pulsed through the carvings, and the gate began to tremble.

But before they could step through… a massive shadowy hand emerged from the ground, clawing toward the gate to shut it before they could pass.

"Not so fast!" Hori roared, swinging his weapon with all his strength.

This was their final chance—either they made it through or they would be lost in the darkness forever.

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(To be continued…)