Barilo's eyes narrowed, sharp and analytical.
"So this is it," he said.
"The true burden of the Chronogod."
He looked directly at Nolan.
"Maintaining this domain while under direct assault… while containing dozens of deities…"
A beat.
"And this is before the primordials awaken."
The void trembled again, deeper this time.
Nolan exhaled.
"If beings like you stay here too long," he said honestly, "this domain will eventually collapse."
Silence.
"That's the line," Barilo said gravely.
"That's where the real battle begins."
The deities slowly lowered their output.
One by one, auras dimmed.
The Time Domain steadied.
Nolan lowered his hand.
"I understand now," he said quietly.
His voice carried resolve.
"When the primordials come… I won't hold them forever."
"Damn it…"
Nolan clenched his fist.
"Just from maintaining this alone, my mana is draining faster than I expected."
The darkness of the Time Domain pulsed faintly, reacting to his strain.
