Rey stood at the entrance of the Sanctuary, the familiar protective dome's radiant light washing over him as he crossed the threshold from darkness into illumination.
The transition was jarring after days in the Labyrinth's uncharted depths—the warmth, the breathable air unstained by concentrated Chaos Energy, the simple presence of other living beings who weren't corrupted abominations or hostile Dwellers.
For just a moment, Rey allowed himself to appreciate the contrast.
Then he dismissed the sentiment and focused on practical concerns.
The gate guards recognized him immediately, their expressions shifting from vigilance to relief.
"Oh, it's you!" Torin called out, abandoning his post to approach. "We were starting to worry. You've been gone for eight days—longer than any previous expedition."
