We stood there for a moment, hands joined, not saying the things we might have said if circumstances were different. Then Lucille released my hand and stepped back.
"Three hours. I'll make sure everyone's ready for the send-off."
After she left, I did one final check of my equipment and mental state. Physical condition: optimal. Mana capacity: full. Emotional readiness: questionable but manageable. Determination to succeed: absolute.
The system chimed softly.
[FINAL STATUS CHECK BEFORE DEPARTURE]
[PHYSICAL: 95% combat effective, cleared for extreme stress]
[MAGICAL: 100% capacity, channels clear]
[MENTAL: Elevated stress but within acceptable parameters]
[EQUIPMENT: Optimally prepared]
[SUPPORT NETWORK: Strong and mobilized]
[ASSESSMENT: You are as ready as preparation can make you]
[REMINDER: The technique requires channeling life force. No amount of physical preparation eliminates the core risk. Success depends on will, not power.]
