"I need to defeat the boss monster to close the dungeon," I stated, feeling the weight of the task ahead. Suddenly, a hissing sound filled the air, and as I stepped forward, the darkness gave way to a blinding light emanating from a nearby gem. To my astonishment, it revealed a fearsome four-headed snake, its serpentine form stretching out with a menacing tail. "Whoa, I've never encountered a four-headed snake in real life. It looks like I'm in serious trouble. Should I attempt to slay it?"
"Master, it would be best if you refrained from killing it. Doing so would invite a curse upon yourself," warned Zion, his voice filled with concern.
"A curse? Why on earth would I be cursed?" I asked, perplexed by the notion.
"This creature is guarding a royal-grade item of great significance. It's not just any ordinary gem," Zion explained.
"What should I do then? I need to conquer this dungeon in order to close it, right?" I inquired anxiously.
"Master, you don't always have to resort to violence to clear a dungeon. As you can see, the snake is merely protecting something. If the rightful owner claims the item, it will depart on its own," Zion suggested, trying to assuage my worries.
As I cautiously moved closer, more snakes began appearing out of thin air, surrounding me. Startled, I instinctively took a step back.
"Zion, what's happening? I'm trapped here, unable to move forward or retreat. This persistent hissing sound is echoing in my ears," I said, my voice filled with desperation.
"Master, if you become frightened, they will sense it. They must realize that you pose no harm. Try to conceal your fear," Zion advised.
"But I'm not afraid," I protested.
"Master, do you not perceive my true nature?" Zion responded with a hint of irritation.
"You're a sword," I said, slightly confused.
"Not just any ordinary sword. I am Arthemius, possessing unique powers," Zion clarified.
"Alright, alright, no need to be upset. Can't you see we're not in a position for a discussion right now?" I retorted, feeling the urgency of the situation.
"First, calm your racing heartbeat. Take a deep breath. And remove your shoes," Zion instructed, attempting to guide me.
"What do you mean, calm down? I'm perspiring profusely. Can't you see the immense size of that four-headed snake? It's eyeing me as if it could swallow me whole," I exclaimed, my words rushed and filled with fear.
"Heh, you coward of a master. You're hardly worthy of being called a master. Just give up on me if you're such a coward," Zion chided me with frustration.
"I'll try," I responded, determined to prove myself.
"What? Are you attempting to abandon me? You foolish master!" Zion snapped back.
"No, I mean I'll try to do as you said," I clarified, hoping to reassure him.
I took a deep breath, attempting to calm myself. Placing my hand on my neck, I checked my heartbeat. I knew that until it settled, I couldn't move forward.
"Zion, I followed your instructions. What now?" I inquired.
"Now? Remove your shoes and pick up the gem," Zion commanded.
"Why do I have to remove my shoes?" I questioned, seeking an explanation.
"You ask too many questions, you clueless master! Fine, I'll explain. Snakes don't have ears, right? But they can sense vibrations. If your heartbeat is racing too fast, they can detect it. Ever heard of frequencies matching? If you're scared, they get scared too. And what do you do when you're scared? You try to protect yourself. It's the same for them," Zion explained impatiently.
"Alright, I understand. But why should I remove my shoes?" I persisted.
"Because they can sense your heartbeat through your feet when they touch the ground," Zion clarified.
"It doesn't quite make sense, but let's try it as you said," I agreed reluctantly.
As I placed my left foot on the ground, the snake didn't strike, but it did entangle my leg.
"Master, remember, don't get scared. Take it slow," Zion reminded me.
I proceeded cautiously, taking slow steps towards the four-headed snake. With trepidation, I reached out and touched the gem. Almost instantly, windows appeared before me.
"Congratulations! You have acquired a replica of 'Ashwatthama's Syron Stone'."
The stone that Ashwatthama possessed in Hindu mythology is known as the "Mani of Chintamani." According to the epic Mahabharata, Ashwatthama, one of the warriors in the Kurukshetra War, possessed a gem known as the Syron Stone, which possessed healing properties and the power to restore life. (Note: The Syron Stone is also known as the Chintamani Stone.)
"While this stone is a replica, it possesses the same powers as the original."
"How should I use it?" I inquired eagerly.
"Simply place it on your forehead, and it will assimilate itself," Zion instructed.
Following his guidance, I positioned the stone on my forehead, and it effortlessly melded into my being.
"Congratulations on clearing the dungeon," a voice announced.
"You shall be rewarded with increased stamina and full-body protection against poison, quick healing, and curse diseases."
"What rewards do I receive after clearing this dungeon? You never fail to disappoint with your vague descriptions, system," I grumbled, unable to hide my frustration.
"Master, don't give in to your greed. I know you can be a bit greedy at times," Zion warned me with concern.
"I think the dungeon is closing. Should I leave you here? You talk so much that my eardrums might start bleeding," I replied, feeling a hint of annoyance.
"You stupid master! I won't talk to you," Zion retorted.
"Sorry, I was just kidding," I quickly apologized, realizing the effect of my words.
"Stupid master, I still won't talk," Zion stubbornly declared, emphasizing his silent protest.
I walked out of the dungeon as it closed behind me. Stepping into the daylight, I made my way straight to reunite with my family.
Just as I was in the middle of a call, my phone rang.
"Hello, brother Ryan. Where are you? It seems the signal is back," I greeted him.
"Lucas... Luc...as... Can... you... hear?" Ryan's voice came through, filled with static.
"Yes, I can hear you," I replied, straining to catch every word.
"Come to the top floor. We're leaving with the chopper," Ryan informed me urgently.
"You can go ahead. Don't worry about me," I reassured him.
While on the phone, another dungeon suddenly opened before me.
"I'll talk to you later. Something came up," I informed Ryan.
"Lucas... No... Wait, come home," Ryan pleaded, his worry evident in his voice.
"I can't, brother. Don't worry, I will be safe," I assured him, ending the call.
I approached the dark and ominous aura emanating from the newly opened dungeon.
Before I could react, it forcefully pulled me inside, giving me a sensation akin to a wild roller coaster ride.
It abruptly ejected me, leaving me disoriented in an unfamiliar and strange location.
"Looks like an A-rank dungeon," I muttered to myself, surveying the surroundings with caution.