Back on the Command Deck:

Lena's eyes were locked on the battlefield, her thoughts focused on the attack. The enemy forces were buckling, but they wouldn't give up easily. The Rhytil would never surrender without a final stand.

Her hand shook as she reached for the control panel, her mind torn between the rational part of her that knew using the core's power would bring swift victory, and the lingering doubts that threatened to cloud her judgment.

"Lena," Kellan's voice brought her back to the present, his words urgent but respectful. "We're almost through. We can do this without you using the core's full potential. Please, trust the fleet."

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Lena allowed herself a moment of clarity. She wasn't alone in this. The fleet, Tavon, the soldiers, and the entire Alliance—they were all in this fight together.

With a deep, steadying breath, she withdrew her hand from the control panel and turned away from the core's pull. "We fight together," she said, her voice unwavering. "No more shortcuts. We win this the right way."