Chapter 168: Map Room
The map room was covered with charts on the walls. Some showed the four sea realms perfectly, while others depicted locations that didn’t appear to exist in any world Lin knew.
"These maps show more than geography," Ao Run explained, moving to a section of the wall where the charts were darker and more complex. "They show the connections between realms and the flow of power."
He gestured to a particular map that showed the central cavern they had passed through, but with far more detail than they had observed. Additional passages branched off from the main chamber.
"The Dragon Emperor’s tomb," Ao Run said, pointing to the largest of these hidden areas. "Built not just as a resting place, but as a vault. A prison, if you will."
Lin studied the map carefully. "You’re saying the Dragon Emperor isn’t just sleeping? He’s been sealed away?"
"The distinction is important," Ao Run confirmed
"The outer chambers will test anyone who enters," Ao Run continued, his finger tracing the path from the entrance. "These are not mere puzzles or obstacles. They are lethal challenges designed to eliminate anyone unworthy of reaching the Emperor’s resting place."
Captain Zhen leaned closer to examine the symbols. "What kind of tests?"
"Creatures that have been waiting for thousands of years just to eat dinner," Ao Run replied.