It wasn't long before Priestess Seraphina led them to the Heart of the Sanctuary. There, embedded in the floor, lay the Gate of Heavens—a massive portal of ancient stone, etched with intricate runes.
She clasped her hands, whispering a final prayer before looking up at Asher. "It is time."
Asher took a heavy breath, his chest heaving. This was the moment. The ultimate mission the System had shoved down his throat was finally within reach. He stepped toward the gate and yanked the necklace from his neck.
"Insert the key into the center," Seraphina explained. "And the heavens will pull you in."
Asher looked back at the crowd one last time, giving them a cocky wave. He turned to Anna, his wife, pulling her in for a deep kiss.
"Promise you'll be back soon, honey," she whispered, her eyes wet with worry.
"Hey, don't sweat it. I'll be back before you know it!" he assured her, his hand lingering on her hip.
