章 15: The Edge of Madness

Alex had been walking for what felt like hours. Each step was a battle, their legs growing heavier as if they were dragging chains through thick mud. The jagged mountains loomed ahead, but they never seemed to get any closer. The fog swirled around, distorting the landscape, playing tricks on their mind.

The whispers, always there, were growing louder. They weren't just distant murmurs now; they were voices, clear and menacing, calling out to Alex in mocking tones.

"You'll never find them..."

"Turn back before it's too late..."

"This place will break you..."

Alex shook their head, trying to block them out. They couldn't let the voices get to them, couldn't let the void sink its claws any deeper. But with each step, it felt like the weight of the place was pressing harder, crushing their resolve.