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The Surgeons' portal is an abomination against everything natural. Up close to it, the raging winds are so strong that you can barely remain upright.

A sorcerous blue flame is lancing between Katariki's hands and firing a tendril of flame up at the portal every few seconds. Katariki is grimacing with exertion. And then he notices you beside him.

"Anaru!" you yell. "What can I do?"

He shouts something back. But just then, the wind picks up, and carries his words away. You don't catch a single one of them. He sees your look of incomprehension and, unexpectedly, he smiles.

It's a nice moment, the two of you there, shoulder-to-shoulder, trying to save the world. It's just a pity you can't do more to be of practical use.

And then, abruptly, the portal expands in size, engulfing the rooftop and absorbing both of you.

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