Return

A golden Portal quietly opened in the peaceful grounds of Kamar-Taj, and Lin Hai and Gwen stepped out.

They headed to the library and immediately spotted Master Hamil sitting at an old-fashioned long table, reading a thick tome of magic.

"Master Hamil." The two approached and bowed respectfully.

Master Hamil looked up, his calm gaze sweeping over them and lingering briefly on Gwen. He keenly noticed the faint traces of energy still clinging to them, along with the tears and dust on their clothes.

He closed the book in his hands and asked gently, "You're back? How did it go?"

"The mission is complete," Lin Hai reported. "We successfully encountered and drove off that dimensional Demon God's Pioneer. As the Ancient One instructed, we didn't pursue with our full strength. The enemy has withdrawn."

Master Hamil nodded slightly. "Very good. I'll pass the news on to the Ancient One. Thank you for your efforts."

Gwen stepped forward, holding out the Dawn Buckler, its luster now faded and its surface covered in fine cracks, along with the still gently warm Guardian Amulet. "Master Hamil, thank you so much for lending us these artifacts," she said sincerely. "Especially this shield. It saved my life."

Lin Hai solemnly added, "Yes, Master Hamil. Without these two treasures, the consequences would have been unthinkable. We'll never forget what you've done for us."

Master Hamil accepted the two artifacts, his gaze resting briefly on the damaged Dawn Buckler before he nodded. "Artifacts are meant to protect people. As long as they serve their purpose, they have proven their worth."

He did not ask for details. Their safe return was already the best answer.

After thanking Master Hamil again, Lin Hai and Gwen did not linger. Lin Hai raised his hand and opened another Portal, revealing the