On the second night of the watch, the Gate erupted. Spectral beings with glowing eyes poured from the cracks, their forms shifting and phantasmal yet undeniably malevolent. Helena immediately raised her staff, drawing upon her immense reservoir of power.
"Defend the line!" Helena's voice was both commanding and galvanizing. Her students, alongside seasoned warriors, formed a defensive wall. Spellfire and steel clashed against the invaders—creatures forged of pure chaos.
Amid the battle, Helena called forth the Starbreaker, an ancient artifact of celestial energy. The artifact floated before her, its light expanding into a pulsating dome that incinerated the oncoming waves of chaos beings.
Yet, the Gate retaliated, unleashing a deafening pulse that swept over the battlefield. Helena fell to one knee, her vision blurring as she braced herself against the overwhelming force. Still, her resolve remained unshaken.
"The Eternal Gate isn't just an opening. It's sentient," she realized. "And it is testing us."
The realization spurred her determination. Rising to her feet, Helena unleashed a concentrated burst of her own magic directly into the Gate, halting its energy spike momentarily. She turned to her students.
"Prepare the Convergence Ritual. I'll hold the Gate as long as necessary."
As her allies moved into position, Helena exchanged words with Eirik. "Ensure their survival," she instructed. "If I fall, lead them. Do not let hope perish."