Chereads / The Scarlet Path / Chapter 15 - 15: The Chains of Obligation

Chapter 15 - 15: The Chains of Obligation

The platform ascended steadily, the air around Shi Yan growing heavier with each passing moment. Above him, the void transformed, taking on the shape of a colossal corridor adorned with faintly glowing glyphs. The shard of the Abyss hummed faintly in his hand, resonating with the Abyssfang at his side.

When the platform came to a halt, Shi Yan stepped into an expansive chamber. Its walls were forged from an alloy that gleamed like liquid mercury, constantly shifting and distorting his reflection. At the far end stood an ornate gateway, its edges pulsing with a rhythmic energy, as though it were alive.

Between him and the gateway, chains dangled from the ceiling, each bound to massive, shadowy figures kneeling on the ground. These figures were neither dead nor alive; their bodies flickered between solidity and translucence.

---

A voice echoed through the chamber, deep and resonant. "The Abyss may have accepted you, but now it seeks its price."

Shi Yan tensed, his fingers brushing against the hilt of the Abyssfang. "What do you mean?"

From the shadows stepped a figure clad in black armor, its surface inscribed with intricate runes. The figure's face was hidden behind a smooth, featureless mask. In its hand was a weapon unlike any Shi Yan had seen—a glaive that seemed to devour the surrounding light.

"You carry the shard of the Abyss, a fragment of its will. But to wield it fully, you must free the chains that bind its power." The figure gestured to the kneeling forms. "These are the remnants of those who failed to claim the Abyss. Their chains anchor the shard's true potential."

Shi Yan narrowed his eyes. "And what happens if I break these chains?"

"You will unlock its full might," the figure replied, stepping closer. "But know this—each chain severed strengthens the Abyss' hold on you."

---

Shi Yan hesitated, his thoughts racing. The Abyssfang pulsed at his side, almost urging him forward. But the memory of the Conclave's warning lingered: The Abyss grants power, but it also demands.

"Do I have a choice?" he asked, his voice steady.

The armored figure tilted its head. "There is always a choice, Seeker. But every path in the Abyss is paved with sacrifice."

Shi Yan exhaled slowly, stepping toward the first chain. As he approached, one of the kneeling figures lifted its head, revealing a face twisted in pain and despair. Its hollow eyes locked onto Shi Yan, silently pleading.

"Do not..." the figure whispered, its voice barely audible. "The price is too great..."