Into the Abyss

Jin-Won's feet barely touched the ground as he launched himself into the battle beside Hori. The shadow entity's crimson eyes flickered as it shifted to meet them both, its dark blade crackling with power.

The impact of their combined assault sent shockwaves through the chamber. Jin-Won swung with precise strikes, while Hori attacked with raw ferocity. Their blades clashed against the entity's weapon, sparks of dark and light energy illuminating the battlefield.

For a moment, it seemed they had the upper hand. But then—

The entity moved.

Faster than before. More ruthless.

It parried Hori's sword and slammed a fist into his chest, sending him flying across the chamber. Before Jin-Won could react, the shadow turned and struck him with a blast of dark energy.

Jin-Won crashed into the stone floor, gasping as pain shot through his body.

A low chuckle echoed through the darkness. "You think teamwork will save you?"

The entity stepped forward, towering over Jin-Won like a nightmare given form. "You still don't understand, do you? This is your trial. Your battle. No one can fight it for you."

Jin-Won clenched his teeth, forcing himself up on one knee. His fingers curled around the hilt of his sword.

His battle.

He looked toward Hori, who was struggling to rise. Their eyes met, and in that moment, Jin-Won understood.

This wasn't about fighting alone. It was about facing his fear—accepting it.

His grip tightened.

Then, he closed his eyes.

Breathed.

And let go.

The moment he did, something inside him shifted.

The air around him pulsed with energy. The darkness that once threatened to consume him now flowed into his blade instead of overpowering him.

Jin-Won opened his eyes, now glowing with a fierce golden light.

The entity hesitated.

"You're wrong," Jin-Won said, standing tall. "I'm not alone. I never was."

And then, with a single step, he disappeared—reappearing behind the entity in a flash of light.

His sword struck true.

A brilliant arc of energy cut through the entity's form, and for the first time, it let out a sound of pain.

The chamber trembled. The darkness wavered.

Jin-Won turned, his sword still glowing.

"This ends now."

— To be continued…