Jiwon didn't go home right away.
He walked through the city streets, hands in his pockets, eyes scanning the surroundings. People passed him without a second glance, unaware of the skeleton walking silently within his shadow.
A notification appeared.
[Gate Detected]
[Distance: 1.2 km]
Jiwon stopped.
Another gate.
This one felt different. The pull in his chest was stronger than before.
He checked the details.
[Unregistered Gate]
[Risk Level: Unknown]
Jiwon hesitated only briefly.
"Come out," he said softly.
The skeleton emerged beside him, bones forming cleanly this time. Its movements were smoother than before.
[Raise Skeleton – Control Efficiency Improved]
Jiwon headed toward the location.
The gate had opened inside an abandoned subway entrance. Warning tape hung loosely, and no staff had arrived yet.
Blue-black light pulsed slowly.
Someone was already there.
A woman stood near the entrance, sword resting against her shoulder. Her posture was relaxed, but her eyes were sharp.
She noticed Jiwon immediately.
"…Necromancer," she said.
Jiwon nodded. "You're early."
"So are you." She glanced at the gate. "Unregistered. That usually means trouble."
"Still going in?" Jiwon asked.
She smirked slightly. "Of course."
She stepped closer and extended a hand. "Kang Haein."
Jiwon shook it. "Han Jiwon."
The gate reacted.
[Party Detected]
[Entry Condition Met]
The light twisted violently.
Without another word, they stepped inside.
The subway vanished.
They stood in a wide underground chamber. Broken rails stretched into darkness. The air was thick with dust and decay.
The system responded immediately.
[Dungeon Type: Underground Ruins]
[Enemy Density: High]
A low rumble echoed.
Something moved between the pillars.
Dozens of red lights flickered open.
"Looks like we're not alone," Kang Haein said, gripping her sword.
Jiwon raised his hand.
"Form up."
The skeleton stepped forward, shielded by shadows.
For the first time, Jiwon smiled faintly.
This gate…
This one felt dangerous.
And somehow, that made it exciting.