As I reach into the first alcove, a most unsettling transformation takes place - the very air warps and contorts, birthing a horde of undead abominations. Skeletons and zombies, previously at peace in their resting place, now surge forth from the shadows with a renewed sense of purpose: to protect their sacred space from the likes of me. I can't help but think that this is just my luck.
Three skeletal figures, each clad in rusted armor and wielding shortswords, await my challenge. Alongside them, two shambling corpses in decaying clothing stagger forth, emitting a putrid stench strong enough to make even the bravest of adventurers cringe. I must admit, it's quite an impressive show of force from these long-dead warriors and their decomposing companions.
I take up my trusty black axe, ready to face the oncoming horde. My armor may not be able to protect me from the stench, but at least it can offer some solace against their attacks. I glance at my off-hand, knowing all too well that I could use a shield to block these incoming blows, but where's the fun in that?
Combat ensues as I strike the first zombie with a powerful swing of my axe, its body collapsing under the force. The skeletons, however, prove to be more resilient, their silent and relentless attacks causing me great distress. One particularly brutal blow from a skeleton warrior leaves me reeling, as I feel life slipping away.
Alas, my fate is sealed as another zombie strike reduces my HP to zero, ending this ill-fated adventure. What a shame - I had so much potential, and yet here I am, joining the ranks of these long-dead monks. It seems that even in death, they've managed to teach me a valuable lesson: always be prepared for the unexpected. Or perhaps next time, I should just avoid reaching into mysterious alcoves altogether.