The journey to the Lunar Nexus had pushed them to their limits. Cinder could feel the weight of the prophecy like a chain around her heart. Every step closer to their destination made the air feel heavier, the ground colder. Jason stayed close by her side, though his silence spoke louder than words.
As they neared the final gateway, the silver glow of the Lunar Nexus shimmered like a mirage in the distance. It was beautiful but daunting. The group paused at the edge of a wide clearing, where the air seemed to hum with energy.
"This is it," Elda said, gripping her staff tightly. "The final trial awaits."
Cinder's hands trembled, though she clenched them into fists. She looked at Jason, her voice barely above a whisper. "If the prophecy is true, this might be the end for me."
Jason's jaw tightened, his gaze fixed on her. "It won't be," he said firmly. "I won't let it."
