The Serpent Abyss Forest had entered a state of absolute convergence after Jacob's arrival.
From every direction, from every poisonous ravine, from every hollowed burrow, from every forgotten ruin buried beneath coils of ancient trees, Autarch's puppets moved in unity and without excessive movement.
They moved like ants answering a single, unquestionable will as Lamia warriors slithered in flawless formation, Naga battalions marched with synchronized steps, and vipers, serpents, and monstrous hybrids carried crates, bones, ores, relics, venom cores, and treasures ripped from the forest's deepest memories.
Above them, invisible ethereal strings shimmered faintly, taut yet elegant, binding every will into one purpose, and at the center of the forest, the portal to Infinite Space stood open.
