Back in the real world, Haruka opened her eyes in her Tokyo apartment. The headset lay on the floor, sparking faintly.
She sat up slowly. The sea's roar still echoed in her ears.
The screen in front of her blinked:
YOU HAVE LOGGED OUT.
Account Status: Soul Anchor Active.
She clutched her chest.
Ocean's Heart… it worked. The Maw is gone. But I'm still linked to the system.
Her phone buzzed. A message.
Soren:
"You made it out. I'm still in Arcadia. But I'll find a way to you. I swear it."
Haruka smiled through her tears.
"I'll wait."