Aiden stood at the sealed entrance of the First Flame Vault, his boots planted on cracked stone that still hummed with fresh energy. The recent Eclipse had cracked the ancient wards.
Scanners showed massive spikes in Aether density inside—enough progenitor tech to upgrade the entire empire's distribution network if they could claim it.
Catherine adjusted the tactical bracer on her wrist. "The guardian AI only activates for those with bloodline resonance. We go in light. No heavy armor. Flora and Luna take point on navigation."
Sabrina checked her blades. "If it turns hostile, we break it. Simple."
Flora's golden eyes glowed softly as she scanned the entrance. "There are truth threads everywhere. The walls remember pain. And want."
Luna's red-gold sight flickered. "Pathways shift based on intent. We stay focused."
