The portal's light dimmed, depositing the team into the dense forest just outside the city of Elysium. The familiar sounds of rustling leaves and distant creatures filled the air, grounding them back into reality after the surreal vastness of the Nexus. But their bond lingered, a hum at the edge of their senses, uniting them in a way that transcended words.
Canila took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Nexus's purpose settle on his shoulders. "We're not the same people who left this place," he murmured, glancing at each of his companions. "And the city... it might not be the same, either."
Elara's eyes shimmered with residual energy as she nodded. "The Nexus granted us a piece of itself. If anything threatens it, we'll feel it. It's as if a part of us is always there, keeping watch."
