Chapter 17: Clash of Shadows

The Abyssal Guardian moved like a storm of death, its massive blade cleaving through the air with terrifying force. Ren barely twisted aside in time, the sheer pressure of the swing sending cracks through the cavern floor.

[Warning: Abyssal Energy Surge Detected.]

The system’s alert barely registered in Ren’s mind as he countered, his fist laced with Void energy. He struck at the Guardian’s exposed side—only to feel an unyielding resistance, as if he had punched a wall of living steel.

The monster didn’t even flinch.

Too strong.

Ren leaped back, landing beside Oris. “Alright, any bright ideas?”

Oris’s gaze stayed locked on the Guardian. “It’s absorbing the Abyssal energy around us. Your attacks won’t break through unless you do the same.”

Ren narrowed his eyes. “Absorb the Abyss…?”

The Guardian lunged again. No more time for talk.

Ren raised his hands, focusing, pushing his will beyond the limits. He could feel it now—the writhing, corrupted power in the air. The Abyss itself.

And if the Guardian could wield it… so could he.

The moment the next attack came, Ren didn’t dodge. He reached out—

And the Abyss answered.

Dark energy surged into him, crackling along his veins. His body screamed in protest, but he clenched his jaw, holding on.

[New Ability Acquired: Abyss Devourer.]

Ren’s lips curled into a smirk. “Alright, you armored bastard… Now it’s my turn.”