Chapter 42: Shadows of the Abyss

The storm outside raged with an intensity that felt unnatural. Lightning illuminated the jagged peaks of the mountain, casting eerie shadows that danced like wraiths on the rocky terrain. Victor tightened his grip on the edge of his cloak, shielding his face from the biting wind as he made his way down the treacherous path.

The mark on his palm, newly etched from his encounter with the Abyssal Orb, burned faintly. It was as though the artifact's remnants pulsed with a sinister life of their own, whispering secrets he wasn't ready to uncover.

*"System,"* Victor began, his voice cutting through the howling wind. *"What's this mark going to do to me? Don't sugarcoat it."*

The system's usual neutral tone seemed colder this time.

*"The Abyssal Bind skill grants the user temporary control over corrupted creatures. However, prolonged use will increase corruption levels in the host, leading to potential loss of autonomy or permanent transformation."*