The End of the abyss part 2

Ryker had done it. He had defeated a Mythical rank opponent and survived. But as the knight's remains disintegrated into dust, an unbearable pain erupted within him. The dark energy that had granted him victory now turned against him, tearing through his body with a ferocity that left him gasping for breath.

The agony was unlike anything he had ever experienced. It felt as though his very soul was being ripped apart. His muscles spasmed uncontrollably, and his vision blurred as waves of excruciating pain wracked his body. He collapsed to his knees, clutching his chest as he struggled to draw breath.

The power... I can't handle it, Ryker thought, his mind a chaotic whirlwind of pain and desperation. He wished for the pain to end, even if it meant his death.

The last thing he saw before the darkness claimed him was the shattered remnants of the knight's throne, a testament to the battle that had nearly cost him everything.

[Congratulations on receiving …]

[Levelled up to level 21!]

When Ryker awoke, he was no longer in the dungeon. The cold, oppressive atmosphere of the castle had been replaced by the gentle warmth of sunlight filtering through a canopy of leaves. He tried to move, but his body refused to obey, each attempt sending fresh waves of pain coursing through him.

A familiar face leaned over him, concern etched deeply into her features. Liora.

"Ryker, thank god," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "You're awake."

The effort of speaking was too much, and Ryker slipped back into unconsciousness. The next time he awoke, it was to the soothing sensation of cool cloths being pressed against his fevered skin and the sound of Liora's soft humming as she cared for him.

For a month, Ryker drifted in and out of consciousness, his body slowly healing from the immense strain of the battle. Liora remained by his side, her unwavering dedication a beacon of hope in his darkest moments. She tended to his wounds, administered healing potions, and kept watch over him, ensuring he was never alone.

One evening, as the sun set and painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, Ryker finally awoke fully. His body, though still sore, had regained some of its strength. He turned his head to find Liora sitting nearby, her eyes filled with relief and joy.

"You're back," she said softly, tears welling in her eyes.

Ryker tried to smile, though the effort was weak. "Thanks to you."

Liora shook her head. "You did it, Ryker. You saved us both. I just made sure you didn't die after seeing your state when you were teleported out."

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of their journey pressing down on them. The fight against the knight had taken a toll, not just physically, but emotionally as well. They had come face to face with the limits of their strength and the harsh realities of their quest.

"We need to be more careful," Ryker said finally, his voice hoarse. "We almost died"

Liora nodded, her expression solemn. "I know."

Ryker reached out, taking her hand in his. "We got this"

Liora squeezed his hand, her resolve mirrored in her eyes.