The Gate Core
After what felt like hours of fighting, they finally reached the base of the tower.
The structure was enormous, built from black stone covered in glowing purple veins. The air around it vibrated with unstable energy.
At the center—
A massive core pulsed with power.
Kael stepped forward slowly.
"That's it," he said.
Seraphine nodded.
"The gate's heart."
Leon cracked his knuckles.
"Then let's break it."
But before they could move—
A figure appeared in front of the core.
Tall.
Familiar.
The Void Hunter commander.
Kael's eyes narrowed instantly.
"You again."
The commander smiled faintly.
"I was waiting."
Leon groaned.
"Of course you were."
The commander raised his blade.
"This gate was created to draw you out."
Kael clenched his fist.
"So this was all a trap."
The commander nodded.
"Yes."
"But also… an opportunity."
Kael stepped forward, darkness gathering around him.
"Then let's finish this."
The air trembled.
The final battle for the gate had begun.