bdsm-fiction Page 458
Page 458
“This place looks like the heart of some ancient civilization,” Li Tao murmured. “Perhaps this is what Zhao De wants us to see.”
Just as everyone was immersed in their newfound knowledge of their surroundings, a faint sound came from not far ahead—it sounded like someone was whispering. Old Wang frowned. "It seems like there really are people over there... We should proceed with caution," he advised.
Zhao De nodded, signaling everyone to tread lightly, and then led the way cautiously forward. As they approached the source of the sound, they discovered it was behind a half-open door. Gently pushing open a corner of the wooden door, a spacious hall suddenly opened up before them: a tall stone tablet stood in the center, carved with complex and incomprehensible characters; several ancient-looking, smiling human sculptures were placed beside it. Most surprisingly, in the center of the hall sat a long-bearded old man—an elderly man meditating.
Upon seeing the intruders, the old man showed no surprise. Instead, he slowly opened his eyes and smiled, saying, "Welcome, travelers from afar. I am the last guardian of this ancient city, and I have been waiting for you for a long time."
"Did you know we were coming?" Old Wang asked doubtfully.
The old man smiled slightly, "This is destiny. Every thousand years, brave individuals embark on a journey to unravel the mystery. And today, it is your turn."
"So what do these symbols mean? What should we do to move forward?" Zhao De asked, pointing to the inscription on the stone tablet.
Chapter 1385 Vortex-shaped Region
Chapter 1385 Vortex-shaped Region
The Watcher stood up and walked to the inscription. "This records the secret path to the location of the treasure, but only a pure heart and wisdom can decipher it. Whether you can unlock it is up to you."
Upon hearing this, everyone gathered around, trying to find the information hidden within. "These patterns... some look like compasses, and some look like constellations... could they be directional markers?" Li Tao muttered to himself, and tried to imitate and draw them with his hands for comparison.
At that moment, Zhao De had a sudden inspiration. He quickly flipped to a page in his exploration notebook, which contained many similar symbols and their explanations that they had encountered before. After carefully comparing the contents of the stone tablet with those in his notebook, he finally identified several points of agreement.
"I know how to solve it!" He was overjoyed. "According to this correspondence, it's actually pointing to the entrance to a secret underwater tunnel!"
A hint of satisfaction flashed in the old man's eyes. "You are very clever, child. Yes, that is indeed the only path to the final destination." He turned to everyone and said, "But remember, many more trials await you. Only by working together and trusting one another can you overcome all difficulties."
Zhao De nodded gratefully, "Thank you for your guidance. We understand that the journey will inevitably be full of hardships and challenges, but that will only make the victory all the more precious."
After saying that, the four of them turned to leave, but before they left, Zhao De couldn't help but ask, "Where does this tunnel lead? Is it the legendary treasure room?"
Zhao De shook his head slightly. "No, what's hidden there isn't some mundane thing like gold and silver, but a treasure trove of knowledge that can benefit one for a lifetime—a series of ancient books recording the wisdom of our ancestors and answers to countless unsolved mysteries of this continent." He paused, then added, "However, I warn you all that many dangers lurk ahead. Without sufficient determination and courage as a guarantee, you may not be able to escape unscathed."
Upon hearing this, everyone present fell into a brief silence. Indeed, after hearing such enticing news, who wouldn't want to continue? However, the thought of facing an unknown number of crises and challenges made some people hesitate.
"No matter what, we will not give up easily." The first to break the silence was Old Wang, his eyes gleaming with unwavering resolve as he spoke. "And so do you all, right? To pursue the truth, we will face death without regret!"
Encouraged, the other three nodded in agreement, "That's right, we'll definitely find that place!" "As long as we work together, there's nothing we can't overcome!" "No matter how many hardships we face, they can't stop us!"
Seeing this, Zhao De nodded in satisfaction. "Very good. It seems I didn't choose the wrong people. Go, and may fate favor you." With that, he slowly waved his hand, and the entire hall was instantly enveloped in a gentle and warm aura.
Infected by this atmosphere, they all felt as if a powerful force had been injected into them, filling them with boundless fighting spirit. "Let's go!" With the leader's command, the entire team swiftly headed towards the underwater entrance...
After passing through a hidden doorway, they arrived at a wide-open lakeshore. The shimmering water, bathed in the night, appeared exceptionally tranquil and beautiful, but beneath this beauty seemed to lie unpredictable dangers. "This is where you enter the secret passage," Zhao De said, pointing to a whirlpool-like area beneath the water's surface. "From now on, we must hold our breath and swim several dozen meters to reach the other side."
Chapter 1386 Natural Cave Entrance
Chapter 1386 Natural Cave Entrance
The group exchanged glances, then took a deep breath and jumped into the icy water... Just as they were about to explore further, a deep rumble suddenly came from the bottom of the water, causing ripples to spread across the surrounding surface. "What's going on?" Li Tao asked, puzzled.
"Look over there!" Zhao De shouted, pointing ahead—following his gaze, everyone saw a large whirlpool expanding outwards from the once smooth, mirror-like surface of the lake, followed by a colossal creature bursting forth from within. "Oh no, it's a giant fish demon!" Everyone hurriedly retreated to avoid danger. The monster, clearly aware of their presence, roared and charged forward, baring its fangs and claws. "Damn it!" Zhao De gritted his teeth, then pulled a spear from his backpack, ready to fight it to the bitter end…
Under Zhao De's command, everyone immediately dispersed, seeking advantageous terrain for cover. The rocks and trees along the lake shore provided them with the best cover. The enormous figure of the fish demon swam on the surface of the water, its scales reflecting a faint light, appearing exceptionally ferocious in the night.
"We need to find that passage as soon as possible!" Old Wang said in a low voice, "Otherwise, this dragging on will be disadvantageous for us!"
Zhao De frowned and looked around. "The underwater structure here is complex. I need time to pinpoint the exact location. Everyone, try to keep that guy's attention."
"Don't worry, leave it to us." Li Tao patted his chest, then took out a homemade small firecracker device from his backpack, lit the fuse, and threw it onto the lake, producing a deafening sound. Startled by the sudden noise, the fish demon angrily turned and lunged towards the explosion, creating a huge splash.
Taking advantage of this brief moment, Zhao De hurriedly unfolded his hand-drawn map and compared it with the actual site. "Look over here!" he suddenly shouted, pointing to a huge rock half-hidden in the bushes. "There's a natural cave entrance there. I think this is where the secret tunnel leads!"
The others quickly understood and moved in that direction, but their good fortune was short-lived. Just as they were about to reach their destination, the monster clearly noticed the commotion again and pounced straight at them.
Just as the beast was about to catch up, at this critical moment, Old Wang decisively drew his old-fashioned rifle and fired several shots into the air, startling the giant beast into taking a few steps back. "Hurry up, don't delay any longer!" he urged his companion urgently.
Finally, the four of them jumped one by one into the dark, unknown underwater passage, leaving behind only the lake surface, which was gradually calming but still fraught with danger. As their vision blurred, a sense of oppression silently descended…
Upon entering the narrow, slippery space, everyone cautiously felt their way forward. While the force of the rushing water outside was gone, the air was extremely thin, and the light was incredibly poor. With the faint beam of their flashlights, they could barely make out the outlines of objects a few meters ahead. In the silence, the group slowly descended, seemingly arriving at a wider area—an underground cave system composed of stalactites and stalagmites of various sizes and shapes. Occasionally, the sound of dripping water echoed in the distance, adding to the mysterious and eerie atmosphere of the otherwise tranquil space.
Chapter 1387 Giant Python
Chapter 1387 Giant Python
Just as everyone was starting to relax, a strange noise suddenly alerted them. "What was that sound?" Zhao De stopped and asked.
"It seems... something's approaching?" Zhao De responded nervously, shining his flashlight towards the source of the sound. A group of small creatures emitting a faint blue light appeared not far ahead, watching them curiously. At first, they thought they were some kind of bioluminescent fish or insect mutants, but upon closer inspection, they realized they were actually strange, sentient crystal spirits. "These creatures don't seem malicious; they might even be able to help us," Li Tao suggested, trying to make contact.
Just as everyone was hesitating about what to do, one of the slightly larger leader elves flew to Zhao De and conveyed some information using its unique telepathic abilities. "He said that the entrance we're looking for is not far ahead," Zhao De translated with delight, "but he also warned that there are some unknown obstacles to be aware of."
With clear clues to guide them, the explorers' morale soared. "Great, let's keep going!" With the crystal spirits volunteering to lead them, the team followed them through a complex, labyrinthine network of underground rivers. Along the way, they witnessed many unprecedented sights, such as vibrant fluorescent algae thriving in the dark, and various rare gems hidden in the cold, damp crevices of rocks. More importantly, they successfully avoided several potential dangers that could have led to catastrophic consequences, such as areas riddled with traps or toxic gas release points.
Just when the group thought they were completely safe, a rumbling sound suddenly came from not far ahead, shaking the entire underground space. "Oh no, have we run into trouble again?" Old Wang frowned, his voice tinged with anxiety.
"Judging from that sound, it sounds like some large creature is moving," Zhao De said alertly. He shone his flashlight into the distance, and a huge figure gradually appeared in the darkness, slowly approaching them.
"What exactly is that thing?" Li Tao asked nervously, already prepared for battle.
Just then, the lead crystal sprite let out a series of urgent cries, seemingly warning everyone. It flew to Zhao De and quickly relayed the message: "It's a giant python, one of the strongest creatures in this underground cave. We must be careful."
"A giant python?!" The group exchanged bewildered glances, a sense of unease rising within them. Although they had already encountered the fish demon, the giant python posed a far more deadly threat.
"Everyone spread out and find cover," Zhao De decisively commanded. "We must try to avoid direct confrontation with it."
"I have some small tools here that can be used to create obstacles and slow it down." Li Tao took out several small trap devices from his backpack and quickly set them up in front of the team.
"Old Wang, you'll be in charge of rear guard duty, in case of any other dangers," Zhao De instructed.
"Don't worry, I know what to do," Old Wang nodded in response, gripping his old-fashioned rifle tightly, ready to deal with any unexpected situation.
At this moment, the giant python's figure became clearer and clearer. Its massive body slithered in the darkness, emitting low, guttural roars, like an invincible beast. Its eyes gleamed with an eerie green light, sending chills down one's spine.
Chapter 1388 The Ancient Labyrinth
Chapter 1388 The Ancient Labyrinth
"Everyone get ready, the giant python is coming!" Zhao De shouted, then led everyone to quickly move to the side, trying to avoid the python's sight.
Sensing the humans' movements, the giant python angrily lunged towards them. At that moment, Li Tao's trap was triggered, and a series of explosions rang out. The python was startled and stopped, but quickly recovered and continued its pursuit.
"Hurry up, just a little further ahead is the entrance the Crystal Fairy mentioned!" Zhao De shouted, quickening his pace and leading everyone forward with all their might.
Finally, at the end of a narrow passage, they saw a light. It was an exit leading to a wider space. Everyone exerted all their strength, rushing forward as fast as they could.
Just as the giant python was about to catch up with them, Li Tao turned back and threw out the last trap. The explosion and smoke temporarily obscured the python's vision. Seizing the opportunity, the group quickly rushed through the narrow passage and finally arrived at a spacious cave.
"We're finally safe!" Li Tao said, panting. He looked around and saw that the cave was filled with all sorts of strange lights and shadows, as if it were another world.
“We need to hurry, we don’t know if this giant python will catch up.” Zhao De remained vigilant. “The Crystal Fairy said there are clues we need here, we can’t waste any time.”
After a short rest, the group began exploring the mysterious cave. Suddenly, a gentle voice came from the air: "Welcome to our home, brave explorers."
"Who is it?" Old Wang raised his rifle and looked around warily.
Several crystal sprites danced around a figure on a high platform, the figure radiating a soft light, as if it were the guardian of this cave.
"I am the guardian of this place. Are you people searching for secrets?" the figure asked gently.
"Yes, do you know the road leading to the core area?" Zhao De asked hurriedly.
The guardian smiled slightly and nodded slowly. "I know that path. However, before I tell you, you need to pass a test."
"What kind of test?" Li Tao asked, his brows furrowed.
"There is an ancient labyrinth here, and only the truly brave and wise can find their way out." The guardian pointed to an entrance that was shimmering with light ahead. "If you can successfully navigate the labyrinth and solve the final puzzle, I will guide you in the right direction."
Zhao De took a deep breath and turned to look at his teammates behind him. "We have no way out. Only by getting through this can we have any hope. Is everyone ready?"
"No problem!" Li Tao replied, clenching his fist. Although Old Wang's face showed worry, he also nodded vigorously.
"Alright, let's set off then." The Guardian gently waved the scepter of light in his hand, and the gates of the labyrinth slowly opened. "May you succeed."
As the group stepped into the mysterious entrance, they were greeted by a feeling that was both familiar and strange—the air was filled with a faint fragrance, and the walls on both sides were inlaid with countless glittering stones, which stood out brightly in the dim light. Under their feet was a straight but narrow path, with pitch-black abysses that seemed to stretch endlessly on both sides.
Zhao De, who was walking at the front, broke the silence first: "Everyone, keep in formation and don't stray from the main road. Remember to be aware of your surroundings at all times."
Chapter 1389 Exploring Other Routes
Chapter 1389 Exploring Other Routes
“Don’t worry,” Old Wang replied, still gripping his trusted old-fashioned rifle tightly. “I’ll keep an eye on what’s behind me.”
The group continued forward in this tense yet exciting state. Soon, they arrived at the first crossroads. Before them lay four paths leading in different directions, each entrance topped with what appeared to be an old parchment map.
Li Tao walked over and carefully examined the contents of each map: "These four roads are not simple... According to the maps drawn above, choosing different routes will lead to different types of challenges."
"So how should we choose?" asked Liu Feng, a novice adventurer, somewhat nervously.
After pondering for a moment, Zhao De said, "In that case, why don't we split into three groups and each try three routes with a higher probability of success? Let's leave the last one, which seems too complicated, for now. Remember to be careful."
After a brief discussion, it was decided that Zhao De and Li Tao would explore the path to the left; Liu Feng would take the slightly flatter path in the middle; and Lao Wang would choose the path to the right, which seemed to be full of hidden traps. They agreed to return to the starting point and meet up again in half an hour, regardless of whether they encountered any obstacles.
Time ticked by, and when everyone finally regrouped at the intersection, each person's expression was different—some looked slightly tired, while others were full of curiosity…
"How's it going? Have you found the exit?" Zhao De asked his teammates with concern.
Liu Feng shook his head first, "Although things are relatively calmer on my end, it seems like the end is blocked by a huge boulder."