Chapter 30: The Nexus Gate

Before us rose the huge tower-a big block of black stone with glowing symbols, beating as if it were a heart. A sense of foreboding was heavy on the air, and even the wolves-more often than not so calm and brave-regarded the closer approach guardedly. The piece in my bag was beating fast now, its energy synchronized with that of the tower. 

"This place feels… alive," Ember said softly, her hair on end.

"It's more than that," Silvermane said in a hushed tone, "It's waiting for us."

Between us and the tower yawned the deep gap, dark within. An ancient stone bridge arced over, narrow enough to let only one creature across at a time. Along the bridge, runes shone with soft light, like embers from a fire that once had burned. 

"Point of no return," I said, stepping on.

Silvermane growled low. "Halt. Something about this bridge stinks of traps. Let me move ahead."