Outside, the industrial complex crumbled completely, concrete and steel cascading into smoke and shadow. Kael led the team through a hidden service tunnel, their breaths ragged, senses still heightened from the chaos.
Veyra's silver eyes scanned the perimeter. "This is only the beginning," she said. "The Nexus corruption spreads faster than the Null Order itself. They exploit weaknesses—your hesitation, your fear, your humanity. If you falter, even slightly, the balance tips. Worlds fall."
Ryken's expression remained grim. "We survived this time, yes. But next time, the Null won't just test. They'll exploit, manipulate, and destroy."
Kael clenched his fists. He had seen the cost of hesitation, felt the surge of power, and sensed the corruption lacing through reality. A part of him feared losing control, becoming an instrument of destruction rather than salvation. Yet another part burned with determination—he would master the Revenant abilities, confront the Nexus, and fight the encroaching darkness no matter the cost.
Aria finally broke the silence. "We need a safe place to regroup. Nexus energy here is too unstable. We can't stay."
Kael nodded, scanning the horizon where the first hints of dawn broke through the clouds. The city slept, oblivious to the war raging in the shadows. Somewhere, the Null Order was already moving, plotting the next strike. And somewhere deeper, the Nexus corruption continued its silent, creeping advance.
Kael looked at his team—Aria, Ryken, Veyra—and felt the weight of responsibility settle across his shoulders. This was more than survival. It was about choice, control, and the lives that depended on him.
And for the first time, Kael Draven understood that every step forward was a battle against not just enemies outside—but the darkness within himself.