Chapter 103: Descent into the Abyss

Rumors whispered of an Abyss so vast and profound that it delved deep for a thousand layers. An untouched enigma, none had fully ventured its depths. Historians speculated its creation by an ancient alien civilization millennia ago, but time had buried its tales, leaving behind a derelict maze unmentioned in history books.

Each layer was teeming with monstrous beasts, each more formidable than the last. Amidst this peril, treasures of inestimable value were believed to be concealed. Many, lured by the potential windfalls and fortunes, ventured in risking life and limb, with many failing to return. The Abyss was no mere pit; it was a colossal labyrinth, challenging any daredevils attempting its conquest.

A legend most captivating was of a fearless explorer who descended 700 layers deep and lived to narrate the tale. Rumor had it that this intrepid soul was the master of a mythical creature.

All these tales, Li Yang had gleaned from his time at the academy. He felt a pull, not necessarily to uncover the Abyss's deepest mysteries but to harness its strength. No sooner had he voiced this desire than he leapt into the chasm, entering its inaugural layer. The vast expanse ahead branched into ten paths.

Just as indecision gripped him, Lysar, a being attuned to the Abyss's energies, voiced out, "I sense an aura, reminiscent of your father. He ventured here long ago."

A rush of emotion surged through Li Yang. "My father ventured here? I wonder how deep his journey took him." His anticipation palpable.

Lysar, discerning his turmoil, offered, "Let me use your jade pendant. It can trace your father's essence, guiding us through this maze."

Li Yang's eyes sparkled with determination. "That's perfect. I wish to measure my might against my father's prime." Awaiting Lysar's spell, he watched a frail light beam towards the second path.

"Ready to proceed?" Li Yang inquired.

Lysar nodded, "It is time."

Braced for the journey, Li Yang took confident strides. But as he set foot onto the second path, the ground gave way beneath him. "Lysar, you deceived me!" he screamed as he plummeted. As he spiraled down, Lysar's voice echoed, "This was the correct path; the fall, an unforeseen mishap."

Reacting swiftly, Li Yang summoned Lion-Eagle, a majestic creature. Mounting it, they glided along the sliding walls, descending gently. Time seemed to stretch until they finally landed, unsure of which layer they now occupied.

Drawing a card from his pouch, Li Yang activated a luminous device, its glow piercing the surrounding darkness. Their journey in the Abyss had only just begun.