Absolute Threshold — Chapter 158. Unavoidable

Translator: Atlas

Weekly Chapter 1/3

“We will take time to reflect on today’s events and introduce new security measures to ensure your safety. Please try not to worry too much.”

“…It’s a strange kind of comfort.”

Gwangmyeong was right, but Jumi wasn’t convinced she would survive this ordeal. Still, she didn’t think he was wrong.

If Jumi had been injured like Gwangmyeong, she likely would have passed out multiple times. Yet, he remained completely clear-headed.

Jumi could sense Gwangmyeong’s unwavering loyalty to Yoongyo.

But her fear lingered.

When the rope snapped, Jumi clutched a nail with trembling hands. She cut the rope binding Gwangmyeong’s wrists, relieved she didn’t accidentally stab him with the rusty nail.

“Where are we? Can we escape?”

Gwangmyeong groaned, clutching his side. It wouldn’t have been surprising if all his ribs were broken. When Jumi leaned her shoulder against him to help, he seemed embarrassed.

“Even if it hurts, hold on a little longer. We’ll get out soon…”

“No. Yoongyo might kill me.”

“What?”

She couldn’t believe what she was hearing. His words made no sense in their current situation, but he looked completely serious.

“Aren’t we in a life-or-death situation right now? You’re not even sure you’ll survive. Just lean on me.”

Gwangmyeong glanced down at her swollen stomach.

“I’m worried about the baby.”

“It’s unavoidable… Please, just do it.”

Jumi began walking with his arm around her neck. The place resembled an old warehouse. A closed door opened, but no one was there. Gwangmyeong grew suspicious.

Despite the pain in his left ankle, he stood tall like a tree.

“If I become a burden to you, I might as well stay here.”

He wore the most serious expression she had ever seen. It was surprising he would say such a thing when he could barely open one eye. But Gwangmyeong didn’t seem rushed. This man was at his peak, likely having survived countless near-death experiences.

“Don’t talk nonsense. I haven’t given up because I’m with you. And where’s Yoongyo? No one will know what we do if we stay quiet.”

Jumi started searching for the exit, her heart pounding in her chest.

The place was eerily silent, the kind of silence that felt heavy and oppressive, as if the walls themselves were holding their breath. When she heard the faintest sound from outside, she moved toward the front door with the determination of someone escaping a maze. Every step felt like a gamble, but staying put wasn’t an option.

“Something feels off. It’s like they’re waiting for us to come out.”

“I feel the same. But we can’t stay here forever.”

“Jumi.”

“Yes.”

“It’ll be okay. Stay calm.”

He said, his tone firm despite his injuries.

She nodded, trying to steady herself, but her hands wouldn’t stop shaking. The weight of the situation pressed down on her, and every second felt like an eternity. She took a deep breath, gripping the door handle tightly.

The moment they opened the door, they were met with a sight that left them speechless.

“Where on earth are we?” Jumi whispered, her voice trembling.