The journey through the eastern mountains was long and treacherous.
Ethan, Lyria, and the survivors traveled for days, navigating jagged cliffs, deep forests, and rivers that seemed alive. Each night, the Fate Mark pulsed faintly—a subtle reminder that they were not alone.
Finally, they arrived at the City Between Worlds.
The city floated above a shimmering void. Buildings glimmered with strange energy, and bridges of light connected towers that seemed to defy gravity. People from countless worlds walked the streets—some human, some strange, others unrecognizable. All spoke different languages, yet all understood the universal law: this place was neutral.
"This… is amazing," Lyria whispered.
Ethan nodded. "But beautiful places often hide danger."
A crowd gathered as a floating gate opened. Figures in flowing robes emerged, watching Ethan carefully. Their eyes glowed faintly.
"You carry the Fate Mark," one of them said. "And your choices have already echoed here."
Ethan swallowed. "I'm not a god. I didn't mean for any of this."
A woman stepped forward. Her silver hair reflected the light of the city. "Intentions don't matter here," she said calmly. "Only results. You've broken destiny. Now, you must learn the rules of worlds beyond your own."
Lyria placed a hand on Ethan's shoulder. "We'll face this together," she said.
Ethan looked around at the strange, bustling city. A mixture of fear and excitement filled him. The journey wasn't just survival anymore—it was learning to live in a world that knew no fate.
And at that moment, he understood:
The real adventure was only beginning.