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Phantom recognized the cause: Rattan's internal conflict was acting as a kind of anchor, preventing the final release. He felt a surge of need and desire to reach out and offer guidance, a push in the right direction. But the explicit instructions of his creator held him back. He was to observe, not interfere. Besides, a part of him, a nascent understanding of narrative and consequence, whispered that this struggle was necessary.

If Rattan was to become the hero his creator envisioned, this was a trial he had to face alone. This moment of doubt, this internal conflict, was a crucible in which his character would be forged. Phantom, bound by his creator's decree, could only watch.