---
As they approached the fortress, the air grew heavier, thick with a palpable sense of dread.
The massive gates, carved from a black stone that seemed to absorb light, loomed before them. Intricate runes were etched into their surface, glowing faintly with an eerie red light.
Loira reached out, her hand hovering just above the runes. "These are warding runes," she murmured. "Powerful ones. They're designed to keep out intruders."
Dabi crossed his arms, tilting his head. "So, any idea how to get past them?"
Loira's lips pressed into a thin line as she studied the runes. "Give me a moment." She closed her eyes, focusing her magic as she traced the runes with her fingers.
The air around them crackled with energy as the runes flared brighter. Loira's brow furrowed in concentration, beads of sweat forming on her forehead.
"Hurry up," Dabi said, his voice tense. "I don't like how quiet it is out here."
