Aiden stopped in front of the massive gates, which bore intricate carvings of an ancient battle. The carvings depicted figures of unimaginable size, their weapons tearing through the very fabric of reality. In the center of the gate was a sigil glowing faintly—an eight-pointed star surrounded by serpentine patterns.
Nexus examined the sigil with a furrowed brow. "This is a Lock of Dominion. It's not just a barrier—it's a test. Only someone deemed worthy can open it."
Aiden stepped forward without hesitation. "Then let it test me."
The sigil pulsed in response to his voice, and a tendril of Abyssal energy reached out, wrapping around his wrist. The energy burned like liquid fire, but Aiden didn't flinch. Instead, he allowed it to flow into him, his Abyssal Seal glowing brighter in response.
The sigil's voice echoed in his mind, ancient and commanding. "Prove your worth, Abyssal Bearer. Show us the strength of your will."
