First step on a certain path

The portal opened as usual. 

It didn't grow to fit the frame I opened it with. It didn't expand to cover the shine I could see on it either. 

It simply continued to exist just the same way it always did, swirling towards its purple center and using this visual to hide what was on the other side. 

And just like in all the other times, only those who I've allowed to see it could see that something happened. Which, in this particular situation, only included me and Fay. 

"Are you ready for the real proof?" I called out to Makary with a simple question asked in an extremely serious tone. 

The man turned his head to give me a long look. Then, he looked around, as if to direct my attention to all the people around. 

"You wouldn't have brought them here if you had any doubt in their loyalty, would you?" I asked while the left corner of my mouth rose up in a slightly cheeky smile.