The first wave of Null operatives surged toward Kael and Veyra, corrupted minions bolstered by dark energy. Kael's mark glowed brightly as he extended the Nexus in intricate arcs, countering the assault. The more he pushed, the more he felt the strain in his chest, the whispers growing louder, warning him of overextension.
Ryken and Aria coordinated flawlessly from their positions, taking out clusters of minions while Kael manipulated the energy flow to protect critical points. Yet the commander's signature pulsed nearby, a looming presence that distorted the energy and forced Kael to continuously adapt.
One corrupted Revenant broke through the defenses, rushing Kael with blinding speed. He reacted instinctively, channeling a concentrated burst of energy to counter the attack. Sparks collided violently, sending shockwaves across the street. Kael stumbled, the mark flickering dangerously. Pain radiated through him, but he could not falter—lives depended on control and precision.
Veyra's shadows surged, restraining several minions and giving Kael the chance to recover. "Focus, Revenant!" she urged. "Do not let their chaos dictate your control!"
Kael exhaled sharply, drawing the Nexus inward, centering himself. Energy flowed with him now, guided by his instincts and strategic foresight. He struck with coordinated precision, neutralizing the corrupted Revenant and creating openings for Ryken and Aria to disrupt the larger waves of Null forces.
Yet even in victory, Kael sensed the city itself trembling under the corruption. The commander's reach was deeper than anticipated—entwined with the Nexus in ways that threatened multiple realities.
Veyra's silver eyes met his, solemn yet approving. "You survived this wave, but the trial has only begun. The commander will escalate further. The cost of victory rises, Revenant. Every use of the Nexus leaves a mark… on you, on the city, and perhaps… on the world beyond."
Kael clenched his fists, energy thrumming within him, exhaustion and determination mixing in equal measure. The battle had been won, but the war had only intensified. The Null commander's retaliation was not just an attack—it was a message: the true test had begun, and the stakes were now far larger than any of them had imagined.