The Verdant Star pulsed once.
A deep, resonant thrum like the first heartbeat of creation.
Light swelled, bending around Taufik's hand.
Not ordinary radiance, but raw genesis, warping the throne hall as if the world itself were being inhaled into his palm.
Thalia's breath hitched.
Ardyn stumbled back, armor clattering.
Cealir shielded his eyes with both arms, ears flattened, while Elaria froze with pupils dilating... caught between reverence and horror.
Even the Dawnmother rose from her throne, fingers digging into the armrest, her composure fracturing for the first time.
The Law of Creation wasn't responding.
It was awakening.
Like a titan stretching after an eternal slumber.
Taufik glanced back casually.
"Hang on"
Thalia grabbed his arm instantly, reflexively, trusting, without a heartbeat of hesitation.
Taufik spoke:
"...Bring me home.... Back to where my family is waiting"
The Verdant Star cracked open.
