Chapter 126: Chapter 126: The Gathering Storm

The air inside the Abyssal Lok was thick, a stillness that felt like it had weight. Sam stood at the edge of one of the many floating islands within the Lok, staring out into the swirling mists and endless void beyond. It had been weeks since his last confrontation with Kaleon, and though Sam had won, the victory tasted hollow. Kaleon had escaped—again—and Sam knew it was only a matter of time before the shadowy figure made his next move.

"Boss, you look like you're thinking about something heavy."

Sam turned to see Ticklebug, his pint-sized, mischievous companion hovering midair. The little creature flapped his wings lazily, his antennae twitching in the slight breeze. Brigham stood nearby, tall and imposing as ever, though his giant rabbit ears twitched in concern as he looked over Sam's shoulder.