Chapter 30: The Choice of the Key
The gate pulsed like a second sun, yet instead of warmth, it exuded the cold of a dying star. Black fire rimmed its edges, folding reality around it. At its center floated a silhouette—a man cloaked in shadows, yet unmistakably familiar.
Alex.
Valerian stood at the foot of the Broken Spire. His party behind him. His blade at his side. The Astral Prism pulsing in his grip like it wanted to leap into the void.
> [System Notification: Final Convergence Point Reached.]
[Warning: Gate Stabilization at 83% – Final Decision Required.]
[Choose One: ACCEPT | REJECT]
"He's waiting for me," Valerian said, voice hollow.
"Then we're going with you," Lira said firmly.
"No," he replied. "This is something I have to face alone."
Selene frowned. "We didn't come this far just to—"
"I'm not leaving you behind," he interrupted, eyes sharp. "But if he's in there, if that's where the system ends... then I need to see it first."