Chains rattled with each step Hajun took. The more he resisted, the more the city reacted. Runes shimmered over the buildings, and statues of former challengers seemed to watch with sunken, hollow eyes.
But Hajun remained calm.
Even without his system, even with his powers sealed, his instincts whispered strategies.
He needed information. Allies. A way to bypass or shatter the restrictions of this floor.
And there was one place where all rumors, rebellion, and resistance met—The Black Lantern Tavern.
---
Inside the smoky, half-buried pub, eyes turned toward him. Many wore the same runed shackles. Most ignored him—until a cloaked figure waved him over.
The woman's voice was soft but firm. "Sit. I've been waiting."
She lowered her hood.
Winter.
Now a prisoner of the City of Chains, her once-pristine S-rank aura was faint—but not gone.
Her eyes lit up. "So, it's really you."
"It is," Hajun replied. "You knew I'd come?"
Winter nodded. "Word spreads fast. Justine didn't expect you this early. That gives us an advantage."
He leaned closer. "Tell me. What's the weakness of this floor?"
She smirked.
"It's not the Warden. It's the people. You want power here? You need recognition. Defy the chain through the city's trial—beat the Festival of Shackles."
Hajun raised an eyebrow. "And if I win?"
Winter's eyes burned. "The people will believe in you. And belief here…? That unlocks the rules."
---
[Quest Triggered: Festival of Shackles – Victory Grants Partial System Access]
[Restriction Adjustment: Copy Skill 1 Use Available Upon First Round Completion]
---
Hajun grinned.
"Then let's give them a show."
---