The portal's emerald light dissolved, leaving Nathan Cross in the belly of the world-tree.
The air hit him first—a suffocating wall of humidity reeking of damp loam and aggressively sweet pollen. Bioluminescent moss painted the hollowed trunk in toxic, neon greens, revealing a treacherous floor woven from petrified roots. Deep within the wood, a slow, tectonic grinding echoed as ancient growth shifted and crushed stone.
"Formation," Nathan ordered. He swallowed against the tightness in his chest, forcing himself to breathe shallowly to spare his healing ribs. "Mirko, take point. Elise, hold the mid-line with the Golem. Garrett, secure the flanks with Red. Dillon, scout the canopy. Kuro, find the blind spots."
Understood, Summoner.
Kuro materialized effortlessly beside him. Her bodysuit gleamed with faint silver threading in the green light. Her void-black eyes immediately mapped the overgrowth. The flora severely restricts lateral movement. Extreme caution recommended.
