Regression: Reclaiming the End

"Make sure you’re careful when entering the Labyrinth solo," I warned, my tone darker now, more deliberate. "I have a strong feeling... the PK King is already on the move."

"PK King?" he echoed, sitting up straighter. "What the hell is that? And who?"

I glanced toward the window for a moment, as if expecting the fog of the Rift to creep through at any second. Then I turned back to him.

"PK stands for Player Killer," I said flatly. "There’s someone out there—someone I know—who isn’t interested in clearing the Rift. Not really. He hunts other Challengers. For fun. For sport."

Noel went still, the casual air between us evaporating instantly.

"Inside the Labyrinth," I continued, "there are no cameras, no system broadcasts, no audience. It’s the one place where killing another Challenger leaves no trace. No proof. No justice. Just death and silence."

He swallowed hard, gears clearly turning. "So... he’s been killing people inside?"

"Not just people," I muttered. "Talents. Prodigies. Anyone who looks like they might shine. I haven’t confirmed it yet, but the signs are there. Too many vanishings. Too many parties wiped with no boss trigger."

Noel’s hands clenched at his sides. "You know who he is?"

I nodded slowly. "In the past... he went by many names. But in the Rift, he was feared as the PK King. A monster in human skin. And if he’s already started his rampage again in this timeline, it means we’re all running out of time."

Silence settled between us for a long second before I added, "So don’t go in alone unless you have to. And if you do... don’t let your guard down for a second."