Chapter 13 - The Price of Returning HomeNoah discovered a second passage hidden beneath the vault.
At its end stood an archway engraved with unfamiliar numbers and symbols.
Garrick recognized it as the original time gate.
The silver coin floated from Noah's palm toward a circular recess.
A doorway appeared.
Through the glowing surface, Noah could see his grandfather's house.
He could even hear his mother calling his name.
Tears filled his eyes.
"I can go back."
Mira smiled sadly.
"You should."
But Garrick noticed another inscription beside the gate.
He translated it slowly.
ONE LIFE MAY RETURN. ONE HISTORY MUST REMAIN.
The Chronicle opened by itself.
A new page appeared, showing what would happen if Noah stepped through.
The castle fell into ruin.
Villages burned.
And an enormous army marched beneath a black banner.
Noah stepped away from the doorway.
"What happens to everyone here if I leave?"
May you like
Garrick said nothing.
That silence was enough.
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