Chapter 16 – The Abyss Trials
Kael entered a hidden chamber within the ancient ruins. A voice echoed in his mind:
> System Quest: Abyss Trials – Complete to Unlock True Potential
Shadows rose from the ground, forming test opponents of varying strength. Kael attacked, pushing his **Abyss Devastation** skill to new levels.
> Level Up: 9
> Skill Learned: Shadow Chain (Lv.1)
Each trial tested his endurance, strategy, and morality. Lyria watched, silently guiding, but not intervening. Kael felt the Abyss pressing deeper into his soul, demanding control.
Chapter 17 – Rylan's Secret
After completing the trials, Kael confronted Rylan again. Rylan revealed his true goal:
—The Abyss is not just power. It's a key to a hidden world… only those strong enough can survive it.
Kael realized Rylan was more than a rival—he was a guide to dangerous knowledge. Their relationship shifted from hostility to tense alliance.
> New Quest: Uncover the Abyss Secrets with Rylan
Chapter 18 – Shadows and Betrayals
While exploring, Kael and Lyria were ambushed by rogue adventurers seeking the Abyss power for themselves. Shadows moved faster than the eye could see.
> Enemy Detected: Rogue Abyss Hunters, Level 5–7
Kael's **Shadow Chain** and **Abyss Devastation** skills were tested to the limit. Lyria's magic provided crucial support, but Kael realized some enemies had been **manipulated by the Abyss itself**, hinting at a larger conspiracy.
> Level Up: 10
> Skill Upgraded: Shadow Chain → Shadow Bind (Lv.2)
Chapter 19 – Awakening the Abyss Weapon
In the deepest part of the ruins, Kael discovered a relic infused with Abyss energy—a dark sword that resonated with his own power.
> New Weapon Detected: Abyss Blade – Bind with User
The moment Kael touched it, black runes spread across his body, enhancing his existing skills. He felt **a surge of strength beyond imagination**, but a warning echoed in his mind:
> Warning: Abyss Influence Rising
Kael understood that power came with a price—but he was ready.
Chapter 20 – The First Abyss Battle Outside the Dungeon
Kael and Lyria returned to the forest, only to find a massive pack of corrupted beasts ravaging a village.
> System Alert: Threat Level – Extreme
Kael gripped the **Abyss Blade**, his eyes glowing red. Shadows spiraled around him as he led Lyria into battle.
The villagers watched in awe and terror as Kael's Abyss energy cut through enemies effortlessly. The battle revealed Kael's growing mastery, but also **how much the Abyss was changing him**.
> Experience +1000
> Level Up: 11
As the last beast fell, Kael sensed a distant power watching him from the shadows.
> Next Objective: Investigate the Abyss Master Behind the Corruption