The shimmering breach loomed ahead of them, with the jagged tear in reality flickering faintly as Kaelen guided Kali toward it. Her powerful wings beat unevenly now, and her exhaustion was palpable. Every stroke felt heavier than the last, but her determination never wavered.
Kaelen leaned closer to her neck, whispering encouragement.
"Just one more push, Kali. We're almost through."
Kali let out a soft growl, mustering her remaining strength to ascend. As they approached the breach, the winds grew stronger, buffeting her massive form. Kaelen's chains coiled tightly around his arms as he braced himself for the transition.
With a strained roar, Kali plunged into the shimmering gap, her golden eyes fixed forward as the First Layer's aetheric skies gave way to the dim, void-laden expanse of the Second Layer. The stark contrast hit Kaelen once more. The oppressive absence of aether here was suffocating, a stark reminder of the desolation that defined this layer.
