Chapter 99: The Abyss Beckons

The Abyssal Rift yawned before them, a gaping maw of darkness that seemed to swallow the very essence of light. Daena stood at its precipice, her leathery wings twitching with a mix of anticipation and irritation. Beside her, Nyssara adjusted her cloak, the fabric shimmering like liquid night.

"Remind me again why we're trudging through this forsaken pit?" Daena muttered, her eyes narrowing at the swirling void below.

Nyssara's lips curled into a smirk. "Because, dear Daena, chasing ancient legends is our favorite pastime. That, and you have a penchant for self-inflicted misery."

"Choke on a fireball, Nyssara."

"Charming as ever. Shall we proceed?"

With a resigned sigh, Daena stepped forward, the ground beneath her feet shifting ominously. The air was thick with the scent of sulfur and something more sinister a lingering malevolence that set her nerves on edge.