Descent of a God

Return of a Hero

My emotions overwhelmed my logic and reason, pulling me back into his embrace. His familiar scent enveloped me, and the strength of his muscles felt just as it had a year ago when we were together.

Tears streamed down my face, carrying the weight of all the pain and confusion that had plagued me since I became the queen of Sapin.

"It's all right, Kath," Jude whispered, his voice a soothing balm. He gently patted my head, allowing me to release the pent-up emotions that had been consuming me.

After what seemed like an eternity, I gathered the strength to separate myself from him, wiping away the tears that stained my cheeks. It was then that I noticed the injuries I had inflicted upon him, my heart sinking with guilt and concern.

"Wait, you need medical attention," I exclaimed, attempting to guide him toward receiving the care he required. However, he simply shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

In a swift motion, he snapped his fingers, and silver dials of time materialised in the air around him. I watched in awe as his wounds closed, his torn clothes mended, and even the traces of blood vanished as if they had never been there.

"I rewound time," Jude explained, a mischievous wink accompanying his words.

My eyes widened in astonishment, my mind struggling to comprehend the incredible power he possessed. It was a testament to the depths of his abilities and the lengths he would go to protect us.

A mix of awe, gratitude, and curiosity swirled within me. There were still unanswered questions, but in that moment, all I could feel was a profound sense of relief that he was back, and the hope that together, we could navigate the complexities of our past and forge a new future.

As we made our way through the Castle in search of everyone, Jude turned to me with a concerned expression.

"Where's Arthur? I can't sense his mana signature." he inquired, his voice filled with worry.

A sombreness settled over me as I responded, "He disappeared. We're not sure what happened. He went to train but never showed up, and when we went to check on him, he was gone."

Jude nodded, absorbing the information. I couldn't help but notice the closeness between him and the pink-haired woman, their connection seeming to transcend what I had shared with Jude. It sparked a twinge of jealousy within me, but I pushed it aside, choosing to trust Jude and wait for him to shed light on their relationship.

Breaking the silence, Jude declared, "I am back home," as he swung open the door before us. The sight that greeted us warmed my heart—Mother, Ellie, Commander Virion, Sylphiette and the remaining Lances stood there, united and ready for whatever awaited us.

As Mother held Alexander in her arms, she gently placed him back in the crib before rushing towards Jude, embracing him tightly. Ellie joined in the heartfelt reunion, tears of relief streaming down her face.

"I told you I wouldn't be gone for too long," Jude reassured them, his voice filled with warmth as he comforted them with his touch.

Virion's face brightened as he witnessed Jude's return, pulling him into a tight embrace, conveying his gratitude and happiness.

Turning his attention to Sylphiette, Jude's initial tension dissipated, replaced by a genuine smile. "Thank you, Sylphiette, for your invaluable contribution to Dicathen. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed."

Sylphiette nodded, her expression reflecting a mix of determination and gratitude. "I was merely doing what was necessary, for the betterment of us all."

Meanwhile, I made my way to the crib, gently lifting our precious son into my arms. I introduced him to Jude with a radiant smile.

"Jude, this is our son, Alexander," I began, my voice filled with pride and joy. "He truly embodies the best of both of us, don't you think?"

Jude's face illuminated with excitement as he carefully accepted Alexander into his embrace. With tender care, he cradled our son, his eyes brimming with love and awe as he softly rocked him back and forth.

As we engaged in casual conversation, reconnecting and sharing the details of the events that unfolded during Jude's absence, a noticeable tension hung in the air whenever the pink-haired woman was mentioned. It seemed that everyone present had observed her closeness to Jude, yet they tactfully refrained from interfering.

But now, the time had come for answers.

"Jude," I mustered the courage to speak up, my voice steady and determined, "I need you to explain your relationship with her, in relation to me."

Jude's expression turned serious, a contemplative look crossing his face as he inhaled deeply. His emerald eyes, usually filled with warmth and reassurance, now held a mix of emotions as he prepared to share his story.

"Allow me to start from the very beginning, from the moment I arrived in this world..." Jude's voice carried a weight of sincerity as he embarked on his narrative.