Then, suddenly-
"Light…!" someone gasped.
Far ahead, a glow flickered to life. Weak at first, then steady, like a beacon shining in the dark sea.
The soldiers' spirits surged. Shoulders straightened, eyes lit with hope.
Their steps quickened, discipline cracking under the rush of relief. Even the stoic generals let out quiet breaths, tension easing from their frames.
The glow swelled with every step until at last a massive gate loomed before them, hewn of stone and carved with runes none could read.
The symbols pulsed faintly, as though the gate itself had a heartbeat.
Just then, Lina's voice was heard once again.
"I-inside, do not move recklessly. Beyond this gate lies a labyrinth of formations." She added. "U-until I dismantle them completely, stay close and stay still."
The silver radiance of Lina's staff brushed across the surface of the gate.
