With everything complete and the portal now fully stabilized, Taufik had no more ties to the Inferno Continent.
His mission here was done.
The swirling gateway behind him thrummed with arcane energy, glowing like a wound in the fabric of space, alive, humming, and waiting.
He stood at its threshold, the unnatural light casting long shadows across the scorched earth. Before him, Rakhsahsa II and a handful of his elite soldiers had gathered to see him off.
The wind carried ash and heat, but for once, the silence between them wasn't hostile. It was heavy with understanding.
Taufik turned slightly, placing one hand on Rakhsahsa II's shoulder. His gaze was unreadable, yet held the weight of judgment and finality.
"...Alright, my business is done here. I'll see you around, Rakhsa... And when that time comes, I hope you're stronger than this"
His voice was calm.
Rakhsahsa II's prideful posture stiffened. He opened his mouth to reply but faltered for just a moment.
