For a moment, Ethan didn't move.
The reality of what had just happened washed over him like a crashing wave.
A Sanctum.
Not just a temporary base—not just a shelter—but a domain. A place of power and permanence within the Great Labyrinth. Something most Awakened dreamed of… and few ever attained.
He clenched his fists slowly.
It felt surreal. Like everything he'd struggled for until now had begun to shift. The tides of fate themselves were changing—bending to his will.
'This is only the beginning…' he thought.
But even as the sense of triumph swelled in his chest, Ethan's eyes remained cold and sharp.
Still… he couldn't help the slight smirk that crept onto his lips.
Kaeryx gave a low growl of approval, his massive head lowering beside Ethan, as if to acknowledge the moment.
The two stood side by side, bathed in the pale glow of the Rune Stone—master and beast—having taken their first step in claiming dominance over the Great Labyrinth.
****
