The city trembled in the early evening, an unnatural stillness spreading over the streets. Kael, Aria, Ryken, and Veyra regrouped at the safehouse, tension thick in the air. The Null commander's retreat was no surrender—it was preparation for a calculated strike.
"They're coming back," Aria said, scanning her holographic displays. "Energy readings indicate multiple breaches opening simultaneously across the district. The commander is coordinating attacks in real time. We're outnumbered and outgunned if we go in blind."
Ryken's jaw tightened. "Outnumbered? Good. Then we hit harder. Quick strikes, precision shots, and pull back before they surround us."
Kael's mark flared slightly as he extended his senses. The Nexus vibrated aggressively, resonating with the spreading corruption. Shadows moved unnaturally in the streets outside, gathering energy that pulsed in synchronization with the commander's signature. This wasn't a localized attack—it was a citywide assault designed to overwhelm them and test Kael's limits.
Veyra's silver eyes glimmered with caution. "Kael, the commander is pushing the limits of corrupted Nexus manipulation. You must anticipate, control, and act decisively. Hesitation will cost more than energy—it will cost lives."
Kael nodded, chest pulsing with anticipation. The team split into their coordinated positions: Aria controlling rooftops for surveillance and ranged disruption, Ryken flanking the eastern perimeter, and Kael with Veyra heading directly toward the largest energy surge near the city core.
As they moved, dark tendrils of corrupted energy lanced out from cracks in the streets, striking with unnatural precision. Kael released controlled waves of the Nexus, blocking the attacks while simultaneously pushing forward. The corruption reacted to his energy, twisting, shaping, and testing his control.
"This is far beyond the last encounter," Kael muttered under his breath. "They've adapted… and the city itself is part of their weapon."