In the other world, far from Arty's newfound control, the air was heavy with the scent of oil, metal, and electricity.
A faint hum echoed through the vast structure. It was an enormous factory nestled in the heart of a military complex, shielded by towering walls and watchtowers that loomed like silent sentinels.
Erend stepped through the front gates alongside Billy, Adrien, and Jessica. All of them were clad in regulation coats and uniforms bearing military insignia.
They were led past rows of armed personnel and mechanical loaders into the main chamber, where the machines for the Magic Assimilation Project were being constructed.
The factory itself was alive. Sparks flew from overhead rails as robotic arms welded large cylindrical units into shape.
Dozens of technicians in white uniforms moved briskly between stations.
