The shattered Illusion

Jin-Won gritted his teeth as his blade clashed with the knight's once more, sparks flying between them. Each strike was met with an equal counter, every movement mirrored perfectly. It was like fighting his own reflection—but stronger. Faster.

The knight's voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable weight. "You fight well, but hesitation lingers in your heart."

Jin-Won tightened his grip on his sword. "I don't need your judgment!"

He lunged forward, aiming for the knight's exposed side. But just as his blade was about to land, the knight twisted his body, dodging effortlessly. In the same instant, he struck Jin-Won's sword, sending it flying from his grasp.

Jin-Won's eyes widened. Too fast!

Before he could react, the knight's gauntleted fist slammed into his chest, knocking him off his feet. Jin-Won crashed onto the stone pavement, gasping for air.

Hori moved to intervene, his grip on his weapon tightening. "That's enough!"

But a barrier of golden light surged between them, forcing Hori and the others back.

Lyria clenched her fists. "They're trapped in there with him…"

Jin-Won coughed, struggling to push himself up. The knight stepped closer, lowering his sword.

"This world is not real," the knight said. "It is a reflection—a test of what could have been."

Jin-Won's breath caught in his throat. "What do you mean…?"

The knight extended a hand toward him. "You seek strength, yet you reject the burdens that come with it. If you continue this path, you will lose yourself."

Jin-Won stared at the hand before him. Was this some kind of trick? Or was there truth in those words?

Before he could decide, the city around them trembled violently. Cracks spread through the air itself like shattered glass. The golden towers flickered, their light dimming.

Yun-Su's voice echoed from outside the barrier. "Something's wrong! This place is collapsing!"

The knight let out a quiet sigh. "Time is up."

A bright light erupted from his form, forcing Jin-Won to shield his eyes. When the brilliance faded, the knight was gone—along with the city.

Jin-Won found himself and his companions standing in a vast void of swirling mist. The golden towers, the streets, the people… all had vanished.

Hori helped him to his feet. "What the hell just happened?"

Lyria's expression was grim. "I think… we were never meant to stay here."

Jin-Won clenched his fists. He didn't have all the answers yet, but one thing was clear—this was only the beginning of something much bigger.

And he had no choice but to face it.

To be continued…