The shards of the ultimate entity scattered across the floor, faintly glowing before dissolving into nothing. Dust hung in the air, glittering faintly in the residual light. My muscles ached, every joint screaming in protest, but the rhythmic pulse of life—the heartbeat of survival—continued in steady cadence.
Notice spoke quietly: "Trial complete. Emotional and physical systems stabilizing. Processing outcomes and growth."
I exhaled, letting tension drain. The innocents I had protected stirred, frightened but unharmed. Relief washed over me, mingling with pride and exhaustion. The dungeon was quiet now, almost reverently so, as if acknowledging the mastery I had displayed.
I flexed my fingers experimentally. Sparks from Best Welder danced faintly at the tips. Rhythm throbbed gently. Enhanced Perception lingered, scanning the hall for residue of danger. Every skill, every choice, every heartbeat had led me here.
Because I was Mizu. Broken once, yes—but standing. Complete.