Chapter 48 - Chapter 48 The Search for the Exit and New Threats Looming

The silence that settled over the abyss realm after Su Yao's disappearance was almost as oppressive as the malevolent energy that had filled the air during the battle. Jack stared at the spot where she had vanished, his hand still outstretched, as if he could somehow will her back. The Keeper placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "We'll find a way to understand all of this, Jack. But right now, we need to focus on getting out of here."​Jack nodded, taking a deep breath and pocketing the small, black crystal that Selene had left behind. He turned to the group, his expression determined. "Elder Li, do you still have the map? Maybe it can show us the way to the exit."​Elder Li retrieved the tattered scroll from his robes, his brow furrowed in concentration as he studied it. "According to this, there should be a hidden portal near the base of that massive obsidian spire," he said, pointing towards a towering structure in the distance. "But it won't be easy. The map warns that the area is guarded by powerful, ancient constructs."​The group set off, their senses on high alert. The landscape of the abyss realm seemed even more desolate now, the few remaining shadowy creatures scurrying away at the sight of them. As they approached the obsidian spire, Jack could feel a strange, pulsating energy in the air. It was different from the dark energy of the Abyssal Wraith or Selene - it was more mechanical, more... artificial.​Suddenly, the ground began to shake, and from the shadows emerged three colossal figures. They were made of what appeared to be living stone, their bodies covered in glowing, rune - like markings. Each one held a weapon that was as tall as a man - a massive, spiked club for one, a double - edged sword for another, and a long, chain - whip for the third.​"Those are the ancient constructs!" Elder Li shouted. "Be careful, their attacks are powerful enough to shatter mountains!"​The first construct, wielding the spiked club, charged forward, its massive footsteps shaking the ground. Jack leaped into the air, channeling the power of the Chaos Orb to enhance his speed. He landed on the construct's shoulder, stabbing his sword into a weak point between the stone plates. The construct let out a roar and tried to swat him off, but Jack held on tightly, using his sword to carve deeper into the creature's body.​The Keeper and the other disciples engaged the remaining constructs. The Keeper's ice - blue sword clashed against the construct's double - edged sword, sending shards of ice and stone flying. One of the disciples, a young woman with the power of wind, summoned a tornado, trying to throw off the balance of the construct with the chain - whip.​As the battle raged on, Jack noticed something strange. The glowing runes on the constructs' bodies were starting to pulse in unison, and a strange, high - pitched whine filled the air. "Everyone, get back!" he shouted. "I think they're about to do something big!"​But it was too late. The three constructs raised their weapons high, and a massive, combined blast of energy shot towards the group. Jack quickly created a shield of Chaos Orb energy, but the force of the blast was so powerful that it sent him and the others flying backward.​They landed in a heap, battered and bruised. Jack struggled to his feet, his eyes fixed on the constructs, which were now slowly advancing towards them. Just when it seemed like all was lost, a bright, golden light filled the area. A figure emerged from the light - it was a man, his robes adorned with intricate symbols that glowed with a soft, warm light.​"Who are you?" Jack asked, his sword at the ready.​The man smiled. "I am a guardian of the ancient portals. It seems you are in need of assistance." With a wave of his hand, a stream of golden energy shot towards the constructs. The energy wrapped around them, freezing them in place. "Come," the man said. "I will lead you to the exit."​Back in the real world, deep within the hidden lair of the Order of the Abyssal Eclipse, the hooded figure stared into a crystal ball, his eyes filled with rage. "Selene has failed," he hissed. "But no matter. The Abyssal Crystal is almost fully charged. Soon, the Gate of Oblivion will open, and this world will be ours." He turned to a group of his followers. "Prepare the final ritual. The time has come to unleash the true power of the abyss."​