The forest remained eerily still after the rift collapsed. No wind, no birdsong, not even the usual rustling of branches. It was as if the trees themselves were holding their breath.
Inigo stood at the edge of the crater, boots sunk slightly into scorched soil. His shotgun hung loosely in one hand, barrel still warm. The air reeked of ozone and burnt magic. Somewhere behind him, Korrik was panting like a warhorse, while Arienne leaned against a tree, beads of sweat trickling down her brow.
"This wasn't just a gate," Arienne finally said, voice hoarse. "It was a test."
Inigo turned. "Explain."
"The portal wasn't stable. Not completely. Whoever opened it was testing the strength of their anchor. And now that it's destroyed, they'll know someone interfered."
Garen wiped his sword on a rag, sheathed it, and joined them. "We've bought time, not victory."
"And we've drawn their attention," Lyra added, brushing leaves from her cloak. "They'll be looking for us now."
