The lift hummed softly, a mechanical groan punctuating its descent as the group stood silently. The platform, large enough to hold dozens, carried people to and fro, with occasional passengers stepping off at various levels. Anna, Elara, Aether, and Ryuji shared the space with an assortment of strangers, each lost in their own conversations or thoughts. Hector approached from the far side, his broad frame unmistakable even in the crowd. A young boy followed him closely, his small stature exaggerated next to Hector's towering presence.
Aether's eyes flicked toward them, curiosity sparking as the boy remained unusually quiet for someone his age. Before he could ask any questions, Hector handed the boy off to him without so much as a proper introduction.
The lift shuddered to a halt, the doors hissing open. The group stepped into a breathtaking expanse: the Playground.
