The stars were hidden behind thick clouds as the night crept in.
Ajax stood by my side, fingers glowing faintly with the blue shimmer of his magic. A portal slowly unfurled before us, its edges rippling life water, revealing a dim, unfamiliar corridor beyond.
I inhaled deeply, letting the cold air fill my lungs as I turned to him one last time. The thought struck me then, this might truly be the end. Once I step through, I may never see him again.
I tried to speak, but my voice caught. Then I managed, in a soft whisper, "…Ajax."
He looked at me, his red gaze steady, unwavering.
"Thank you," I said.
His expression shifted, quiet and solemn, then he gave me a small and hopeful smile.
"Thank me later," he murmured, "once you come back."
That made me pause.
I opened my mouth, unsure what to say, unsure if I even believed I would return. But I nodded. "…I… I will."
Without another word, I turned and stepped into the portal.
