章 560: On Guard

"Haven," I began as we crossed the bridge towards the Heart of Haven.

"Yes?" the spirit replied.

He had taken his escort duties quite seriously, refusing to settle until I had linked my arm with his, my hand resting on his forearm, resembling a noble lady and her escort. Luke trailed behind us, his gaze fixed on the back of Haven's head for some reason. If I hadn't known better, I might have interpreted it as jealousy, but it was more likely mistrust. He had every reason to be wary of this realm's inhabitants, considering their hostility up until now.

"Why must we walk to the entrance gate?" I asked. "Can't you just send us back from anywhere?"

He shook his head. "Before, when your grasp on this realm was tenuous, it was more akin to a dream than reality. That transience is gone, and we must adhere to stricter laws. It's not all bad, though. The realm can now sustain many different kinds of existences, like the goddess and her remnants."