---
Behind them, Loira worked tirelessly, her magic weaving intricate patterns around the central rift.
Sweat beaded on her forehead as she poured all her focus into stabilizing the vortex's chaotic energy.
"This isn't just a rift," she muttered under her breath, her voice strained. "It's fells like it's pushing me back."
The rift pulsed violently, sending out waves of energy that threatened to disrupt her spell. Loira gritted her teeth, her hands steady despite the growing strain. "I just need a little more time."
Jeni's magic flared as she created a protective dome around Loira, shielding her from stray attacks.
The frozen ally of the harbinger shattered the ice encasing them, roaring as they charged toward the group.
"Not so fast!" Jeni shouted, releasing a surge of ice magic that forced the figure back. Her staff glowed brighter as she prepared another spell, her determination unwavering.