A/N: All rights to the original content are reserved by the respective copyright owner.
Chapter Image Source: Pixiv Artist Code "19935159" / Pixiv Art Code "109669413"
Edit as of July 19, 2024: I am rereading my previous chapters and couldn't help but cringe at some aspects, particularly the repetition caused by my past self. Even the English is too complex for normal readers. So, I am editing some segments to use more natural vocabulary (screw you again, past self) and removing repetitions.
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The dragon's ancient, serpent-like eyes pierced Jingliu with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. Those crimson orbs seemed to carry the weight of centuries, hinting at the unfathomable knowledge and power this creature held.
As Jingliu bravely posed her question, the dragon's immense body seemed to vibrate with contained energy. It rose to its full, towering height, its presence causing the ground itself to tremble.
With a voice that echoed like distant thunder, the dragon spoke, its words heavy with the echoes of ages past, each syllable infused with ancient wisdom and an unsettling malevolence.
"Mortal," it rumbled, the sound filling the air, "you face Gogma, the last of the ancient dragons. I am known as the devourer of the roots of the Tree of Despair, a guardian of the abyss that underlies the universe."
Jingliu's breath caught at the mention of "Gogma." The name was one of legends, spoken only in whispers. Yet, there it was, tangible and ominous, aware of the darkness enveloping the land.
Gogma's gaze was relentless. "I did not come here out of hunger, for I no longer require sustenance. Instead, I was drawn by the semblance of the abyss that has spread through Xianzhou. This land's corrupted state offers not food, but a source of power."
Jingliu processed the dragon's revelations, realizing it was not here to feed but for a more sinister purpose—drawing strength from the very corruption afflicting the land.
"The abyss below," the dragon continued, "is more than mere hunger. It is born of despair and suffering, calling to me. I have come to witness its expansion, to understand its essence, and perhaps, to claim its power as my own."
This disclosure sent a cold fear through Jingliu. Gogma's intentions were more complex than any predator's; it sought to harness the land's darkest energies.
Gogma then spoke with a chilling intent, its focus narrowing on Jingliu. "What fascinates me most, mortal, is the semblance of the abyss within you. A latent darkness resides in your soul, unawakened but stirring. It calls to me, as does this land."
A wave of dread washed over Jingliu as the dragon's words stirred deep-seated fears. She wondered if she, too, might be marked by the same darkness that plagued Xianzhou.
"Do I carry the mara within me?" Jingliu whispered, her voice trembling with uncertainty as she delved into her own thoughts, seeking answers deep within her soul.
The dragon's eyes sparkled with malicious glee, and it burst into a loud, echoing laugh that shook the trees and sent ripples across the land.
"You fear the mara, little mortal?" the dragon taunted, its voice oozing amusement. "You see it as a curse, a burden, yet you do not understand its true nature."
Jingliu, startled by the dragon's laughter and cryptic words, felt a mix of fear, confusion, and rising unease. The dragon's revelation had unleashed a flood of questions, and she knew she had to confront them directly.
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Bonds of Darkness: Swordmen's Redemption
Adventure(Season 1 Completed) Y/N, a once valiant warrior, is losing himself to a malevolent curse, and Jingliu is unwavering in her determination to save him. As they grapple with inner struggles and confront formidable trials, their universe's fate teeters...
