[The Time Merchant (‽) is present ] came the cryptic proclamation.
"You just can't resist meddling with time, can you?" The Time Merchant's voice held a mixture of admonishment and bemusement as he materialized beside Ivan. He extended his hand and lightly tapped Ivan's forehead.
With that simple touch, the maelstrom of chaos dispersed into the ether. The oppressive air lifted, and both Ahad and Lorson drew deep, grateful breaths, finally able to breathe freely again.
"Go. I don't think I can restrain myself from killing you any longer," Ivan's voice sounded ominously shrouded in darkness.
Ahad needed no further prompting; he swiftly moved to carry Lehan and vacate the scene. He didn't dare touch the pouch containing the stones they had gathered.
"Leave as well. Right now, I'm barely holding back my murderous instincts. I'll meet you all back where we started," Ivan instructed, his gaze locked on Lorson.
