The colossal gate stood before them like the entrance to another world.
Ancient symbols glowed faintly across its massive stone surface, forming intricate patterns that pulsed with a slow, steady rhythm. Each rune carried the weight of centuries, their dim light illuminating the vast chamber in a faint golden glow. The air surrounding the gate felt heavier than anywhere else in the ruins.
As if something behind it had been waiting for a very long time.
Aether stood quietly, observing the gate.
Beside him, the Flame Sovereign Pup lifted its head slightly. Its small body radiated a calm yet intense heat, and the crimson flames around it flickered with unusual intensity as it reacted to the strange energy leaking from beyond the barrier.
Rylan stretched his shoulders as he stepped closer to the gate, examining the towering structure with open curiosity.
"Well," he said with a low whistle. "If this thing gets any bigger, it's going to need its own mountain."
