Ivy's mother appeared moments later, her face showing relief mixed with exhaustion as she scooped her daughter into her arms.
The little girl twisted in her mother's grip, her hand waving back toward where Damian sat.
"Bye bye, big brother hero!"
Her voice carried across the courtyard, high and certain.
Damian's hand lifted in response, watching them disappear into the headquarters before his arm lowered slowly.
He stood up with movements that felt like dragging weights, his body protesting every shift.
His boots found the steps, carrying him toward the entrance.
The corridors stretched ahead, empty except for the occasional soldier moving past with quick salutes.
His mind turned inward, sorting through everything waiting beyond this brief moment of quiet.
'It has been too long since Hell Portal closed. Mom and Dad…'
The thought came sharp and certain, cutting through the alcohol's haze.
'I should kill Khra'gath soon, end the first nightmare before it truly begins.'
