Arrival in the Abyssal Layers
The chapter begins with Jin stepping through the portal from the Core chamber and finding himself in a new section of the labyrinth—the Abyssal Layers. This area is vastly different from what he has seen before. The walls are no longer carved stone but instead pulsating, living shadows that seem to breathe and shift around him. The air is colder, heavier, and filled with an oppressive sense of dread.
System Notification:
New Area Discovered: Abyssal Layers.
Warning: Enemies in this area exceed Level 20. Proceed with caution.
The labyrinth has become more hostile, and Jin senses he is being watched constantly. The shadows here are more aggressive, tugging at his armor and testing his resolve.
"Erebus," Jin says aloud, his voice echoing. "You said I'm your chosen host. Then tell me—what's waiting for me down here?"
Erebus's voice is calm but cryptic. "The Abyssal Layers are where the true horrors of the labyrinth dwell. It is here that the Titans' influence is strongest. Survive this, and you will be ready to face them."
The Echoing Past
As Jin ventures deeper, he encounters glowing shards embedded in the walls. When he touches one, a vision floods his mind. He sees glimpses of Erebus's life before his imprisonment—a being of pure shadow, waging war against the Titans alongside the gods.
The vision reveals Erebus's betrayal: the gods, fearing his growing power, sealed him within the labyrinth, leaving him to fight the Titans alone.
Erebus speaks bitterly. "The gods called it balance, but it was fear. They feared me, just as your friends feared what you could become. Remember that."
Jin tightens his grip on his blade. "I'll remember. I won't be a pawn for anyone—not gods, not Titans, and not even you."
The Abyssal Beast
Jin's journey is interrupted by a low growl that reverberates through the tunnels. From the shadows emerges a massive creature—a Shadow Wyvern, a serpentine beast with wings of darkness and glowing red eyes.
System Notification:
Enemy Encounter: Shadow Wyvern.
Level: 25.
The wyvern attacks with terrifying speed, unleashing waves of dark fire that force Jin to rely on his agility and Shadowforge Armor for defense. Its tail sweeps and claws create massive shockwaves, making every step dangerous.
Despite his growth, Jin struggles against the beast. The wyvern's sheer strength overwhelms him, and its mastery over shadow magic rivals his own.
Unlocking Abyssal Domain
In a desperate moment, Jin remembers his new ability—Abyssal Domain. He activates it, plunging the battlefield into total darkness. The wyvern screeches, disoriented by the sudden shift, while Jin's senses sharpen within the domain.
The system provides guidance.
System Tip: "The Abyssal Domain amplifies your abilities. Use the shadows to bind and weaken the enemy."
Jin conjures shadow tendrils to restrain the wyvern, then channels all his strength into a devastating Shadow Strike. The attack pierces the beast's heart, causing it to collapse in a cloud of dark energy.
System Notification:
Shadow Wyvern Defeated: 400 EXP Gained.
Level Up: Level 17.
New Ability Unlocked: Voidwalker Step – Teleport short distances through shadows, avoiding attacks or closing gaps.
The Titan's Influence
After the battle, Jin notices something unusual—a faint, golden glow emanating from the wyvern's remains. As he approaches, he sees a symbol etched into the ground, pulsing with divine energy.
Erebus's voice grows sharp. "A Titan's mark. They're reaching beyond their prison, corrupting the labyrinth's creatures. Destroy it, quickly!"
Jin slams his blade into the symbol, shattering it. The divine energy dissipates, but he feels a chilling presence lingering.
A deep, booming voice echoes in the chamber, filling Jin with unease.
"You grow stronger, mortal. But strength alone will not save you. Your shadows are ours to command. We will reclaim what is rightfully ours."
Jin's anger flares. "Come and try, then. I'll bury you just like I buried that beast."
The Light Fragment's Purpose
After the encounter, Jin inspects the Fragment of Lumina he found earlier. The system provides new information.
System Notification:
Item Update: Fragment of Lumina.
Purpose: Can be fused with shadow abilities to create balanced powers. Requires a forge point to activate.
Erebus's voice grows cautious. "Be wary of using the light. It was the gods' weapon against me. While it can make you stronger, it may also weaken our bond."
Jin smirks. "Power is power. If it helps me survive, I'll use it."
The Next Map Fragment
Deeper in the Abyssal Layers, Jin discovers another fragment of the labyrinth's map. This one highlights a location marked as The Gate of Chains.
Erebus explains, "The Gate of Chains is the final barrier between the labyrinth and the Titans' prison. If you reach it, you'll find the answers you seek—but you'll also face the Titans' most loyal guardians."
The system adds a new mission.
System Notification:
Mission Update: Reach the Gate of Chains.
Reward: 800 EXP.
The Abyss Awakens
As Jin prepares to move forward, the labyrinth begins to shake violently. The shadows ripple, and unearthly roars echo from every direction. Erebus's voice grows urgent.
"The Titans are aware of your presence now. They will stop at nothing to destroy you. Steel your resolve, Jin Sang. The true battle begins now."
Jin clenches his fists, determination blazing in his eyes. "Let them come. I'm ready."
The chapter ends with Jin venturing deeper into the labyrinth, the shadows twisting and reshaping around him as he marches toward the Gate of Chains. The path is treacherous, but Jin's resolve burns brighter than ever.
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