The lift rattled as it climbed, a groaning old thing powered by ancient gears and mana crystals embedded deep into the city's veins. The hum beneath their feet wasn't mechanical—it was alive. A slow pulse of energy that beat like a heart, echoing up through the stone walls.
Vael didn't talk much as they ascended. He just stood near the gate, arms folded, eyes watching the rising skyline as if reading something in the clouds. Joshua leaned against the opposite rail, the lights of Karyon Sol washing over his face in soft glows. Adam stood dead center, arms crossed, unreadable as always.
The higher they got, the quieter it became.
Eventually, the lift stopped with a soft chime. The gates opened.
They stepped out onto a narrow platform. Wind tugged at their coats immediately—thin, cold, and whispering. The Council Spire stood ahead like a needle stabbing the stars. Made of obsidian stone and silver-veined crystal, it shimmered with power that wasn't entirely natural.
