The world returned in silence.
No burst of light. No resounding thud. No dramatic flair.
Just… quiet.
Alden blinked as his vision settled.
Cool air touched his face. The familiar earthy smell greeted him.
He was back in the cave where he entered the dungeon from.
Not a single thing had changed.
Except for one thing.
The lake.
The lake, which was previously glimmering slightly, was dim. Its water still looked clean.
Still, it didn't feel the same. It felt colourless and lifeless.
Alden stood beside the calm lake.
Kyun was held delicately in his one hand, sleeping peacefully. Her breathing was soft and calm.
While his other hand held the ring.
A parting gift from his elder sister.
The ring wasn't just a gift.
It was a promise that she would find him again.
Obviously if I'm alive till then.
Alden made a sarcastic remark as a chuckle followed.
The words weren't funny. Not remotely so.
But saying them cracked the eerie calm in his mind.
