The sun was setting as Kael and Elena reached the edge of a vast canyon, its rocky expanse illuminated by streaks of crimson and gold. The air was heavy with the scent of earth and a strange metallic tang, a reminder of the corruption that lingered despite the Veil’s fracture.
“This is it,” Elena said, her voice tinged with both awe and apprehension. She pointed to a cluster of jagged stones in the canyon’s center, their edges glowing faintly with an otherworldly light.
Kael nodded, his eyes narrowing. “The Gateway.”
Merak’s map had led them here, to one of the ancient portals that could grant access to the Void Nexus. But as Merak had warned, the Gateway would not be unguarded.
“Let’s set up camp for the night,” Kael said, scanning the area for a suitable spot. “We’ll need to be at fu
