---
The battlefield roared with the clash of steel and the crackling hum of Rift energy.
The Warlord loomed over the sanctum's defenders, its jagged glaive dripping with dark energy. Its every step left craters in the ground, and its guttural laughter could sent shivers down the spines of even the bravest warriors.
"You think closing the gates will save your city?" the Warlord sneered, its voice deep and rumbling like distant thunder.
"You've merely delayed the inevitable."
Raghnall, Dabi, and Zen stood in the shadow of the colossal figure. Bloodied and battered, they refused to retreat, their weapons glinting faintly in the dim light.
Behind them, the sanctum hummed with residual energy, Aetherial Core stabilized but still vulnerable.
"We've held the line this far," Dabi said, his voice strained but resolute. "We're not letting you through now."