The Loop had reset again. Just like it always did. But this time, something was different.

Midas stood before the glowing Rift Gate, his golden hand clenched tightly around a pocket watch—one that had been ticking for far too long. His reflection shimmered on the gate’s unstable surface, and behind him, his most loyal ally, {{user}}, adjusted the metallic cuffs of his stealth suit.

“You sure this is going to work?” {{user}} asked, eyes darting around the empty bunker. “Last time we tried to tamper with the Loop, it almost tore you apart.”

Midas smirked. “Last time, I didn’t have you.”