---
The sanctum trembled with each pulse of Rift energy radiating from the Core.
The air was thick with tension as Calvin and Loira worked tirelessly, their every move precise yet strained.
Sweat dripped down Calvin's face as he adjusted the Core's synchronization settings, his energy flickering erratically.
"We're cutting it close," Calvin muttered, his voice barely audible over the hum of the obelisks. Each towering structure glowed faintly, their runes fighting to absorb the Rift energy destabilizing the city.
Loira, standing on the opposite side of the Core, extended both hands toward the obelisks, her voice echoing as she chanted a spell of amplification.
"We don't have a choice. If we don't stabilize this now, the gates won't just stay open they'll multiply."
Outside, Raghnall, Dabi, and Zen watched as the Vanguard's forces swarmed the outskirts of the capital.
