The journey to the Forgotten Abyss had begun.
The wind howled through the night as Arin and his companions rode across the barren wastelands. Shadows of ancient ruins stretched across the land like the fingers of a forgotten god.
Seraphina led the way, her golden eyes glowing faintly under the moonlight. "The Abyss is alive," she warned. "It tests those who enter. If your heart wavers, it will devour you."
Arin smirked. "Then it better be ready for a fight."
But deep inside, he felt it.
The darkness creeping through his veins.
---
The Abyss Beckons
By dawn, they reached the entrance.
A massive chasm yawned before them, its depths swirling with an unnatural mist. The air crackled with unseen energy, and the very ground seemed to whisper.
Lilith took a step forward, peering into the abyss. "Lovely. A bottomless pit of death. Just what I wanted."
Evelyn closed her eyes, sensing the energy. "It's more than that. The Abyss is a trial. Only those strong enough to face their own nightmares can reach the temple."
Valeria glanced at Arin. "Are you sure about this?"
Arin met her gaze, determination burning in his eyes. "If this is the only way to remove the curse, then yes."
Without hesitation, he stepped forward—
And the Abyss swallowed them whole.
---
The Trial of Shadows
The world twisted.
One moment, Arin felt the cold wind on his skin—then nothing. Just darkness.
Then—whispers.
A voice, familiar yet distant.
"You think you're strong enough?"
Arin spun around. The darkness shifted, forming a shadowy figure.
His own reflection.
But its eyes—void of light, filled with something sinister.
"You will fail. Just like Leonhardt. Just like all before you."
Arin clenched his fists. "I am not them."
The shadow smirked. "Aren't you?"
It lunged.
Arin barely had time to react before the blade of darkness slashed toward him—
And the real battle began.
---
[TO BE CONTINUED...]