The group trudged through the dungeon, their weapons sheathed but their senses still alert. After the grueling battle, exhaustion weighed heavily on their bodies. Every dungeon had its own structure, and this one was no exception—floors filled with danger and despair were interspersed with rare sanctuaries.
As they descended a winding staircase, the oppressive darkness suddenly gave way to light. The air became lighter, the faint scent of blooming flowers drifting toward them. They stepped through a massive archway, and what greeted them was nothing short of miraculous.
---
A Hidden Sanctuary
Before them stretched a sprawling village nestled within the cavern. It was as if a pocket of paradise had been hidden away in the depths of the dungeon. Small cottages with thatched roofs lined the cobblestone streets, and cheerful villagers bustled about, carrying baskets of fruit or tending to colorful gardens.
Above them, the ceiling of the dungeon shimmered with light, mimicking a clear blue sky. A gentle breeze brushed against their skin, carrying the distant sound of laughter and the soft trickle of a stream.
"This is… a safe floor," Jackson said, his voice filled with awe. He tightened his grip on JC's staff, almost as if afraid the sight might disappear if he let go.
Lissy's eyes sparkled as she gazed at the serene village. "It's beautiful."
Angel crossed her arms, her usual stoic expression faltering slightly. "A little too beautiful. It's almost unsettling."
Mark stepped forward, his shield still strapped to his back. "It's real, Angel. Every dungeon has at least two of these floors—places for adventurers to rest and prepare." He glanced around at the villagers. "Though I've never seen one this... lively."
---
Welcomed by Strangers
As the group ventured into the village, the villagers greeted them warmly. A kind old woman approached, offering them fresh bread and water.
"You must be weary from your journey," she said, her voice gentle. "Come, rest at the inn. You'll find no danger here."
"Thank you," Mark replied, taking the bread with a grateful nod.
The group followed her to a cozy inn at the heart of the village. Inside, the atmosphere was just as inviting. A roaring fireplace crackled in the corner, and the scent of hearty stew filled the air.
---
A Moment to Breathe
Settling into their rooms, the group finally allowed themselves to relax. Angel leaned against the window, staring out at the village below. "It feels… weird," she admitted. "Being safe in a dungeon."
"It's supposed to," Jackson said, setting JC's staff against the wall. "These floors are meant to make you drop your guard. That's why we shouldn't stay too long."
Lissy sat on the edge of her bed, her fingers tracing the hem of her cloak. "But maybe we need this," she said softly. "After everything we've been through… maybe we deserve a moment of peace."
Mark nodded. "We'll rest tonight, resupply, and head out at first light. Agreed?"
The others murmured their assent, though a sense of unease lingered in the air.
---
The Hidden Truth
As the group settled in for the night, JC stood at the edge of the village, hidden in the shadows of a grove of trees. His sharp eyes scanned the seemingly perfect sanctuary.
He knew better.
The safe floors of dungeons were deceptive by design. Though they offered rest and reprieve, they often harbored secrets—secrets that could either aid or doom adventurers.
JC's gaze shifted to the villagers. They smiled and laughed, but there was something… off. Their movements were too deliberate, their smiles too fixed.
This village wasn't what it seemed.
---
The Calm Before the Storm
As the night deepened, the group slept soundly, unaware of JC's silent vigilance. From his vantage point, he could feel the dungeon's energy shifting, a subtle ripple that only someone of his rank could detect.
Something was coming.
For now, he would let them rest. They needed their strength for what lay ahead. But when morning came, JC would ensure they were prepared—whether they trusted him or not.
The village, with its painted sky and friendly faces, was only the beginning.