Down

**Chapter Three: Veiled Shadows of the Queen's Domain**

In a remote outer chamber, the trio stumbled upon an unexpected sight—an illuminated return point, a beacon of relief in the labyrinth's shadows. As they approached the familiar gateway, a tangible sense of relief washed over their faces. The comfort of reaching this respite, even if temporary, was palpable.

Days elapsed, and the trio found themselves attending the second orientation meeting after the harrowing events of the 1st room. In the vast assembly hall, Quint's voice echoed, his tone congratulatory yet laced with a foreboding undertone. He briefed the participants on the challenges awaiting them in the 2nd room. The air buzzed with anticipation as Quint, a figure of authority, declared, "Before you guys go on, I need to slim down your numbers."

With a swift motion, Quint raised his hand, and the word "down" reverberated through the space. A great pressure flooded the chamber, pushing all participants down to the ground. The selection process had begun, and the participants struggled against the oppressive force.

As the five minutes passed, only 20 participants out of the initial 50 remained conscious. Among the survivors was Akira, his gaze scanning the faces of those who endured. Strong individuals, each harboring their own ambitions in the ascent through Astrum Spire. The prospect of competing alongside such formidable opponents ignited excitement within Akira—a spark of determination to rise to the challenge.

Quint efficiently grouped the remaining participants into threes, a strategic move to foster collaboration and rivalry. Each trio was assigned a hotel room—a momentary haven in the enigmatic realm. As the trio settled in, night seamlessly transitioned into day, marking the start of the challenges that awaited them.

Eager and resolute, the trio ventured out for the first challenge of the 2nd room. Akira took the lead, Sil followed closely, and Halo completed the trio as they found themselves immersed in a jungle forest—an abrupt shift from the desolation of the 1st room. The dense foliage concealed mysteries, and mysterious sounds set the stage for the impending trials.

Standing at the threshold of the jungle forest, the trio faced the uncertainties and revelations of the 2nd room in Astrum Spire. Determination gleamed in their eyes, a shared resolve to confront whatever challenges the enigmatic realm would unveil in the veiled shadows of the queen's domain.