"...Ethan's death," Elohim finally spoke.
"Was necessary."
Everyone flinched.
Lucas's mouth opened, but no words came. His chest rose and fell, trying to catch his breath. Even he didn't seem to understand.
"A sacrifice for growth," Elohim continued. "Lucas had to feel true loss. That is the only way he could awaken deeper power within himself. That is how heroes are born."
Aestrea's head twitched.
His lips parted in disbelief.
"...What?"
Elohim's glowing eyes didn't waver.
"Pain tempers the soul. This was never about one life. It's all about the future, the strength your world needs. Balance demands it."
As soon as he uttered those words, the place went completely silent.
And then—
A small, sharp laugh slipped from Aestrea's lips.
"Heh..."
His shoulders twitched.
"Ahaha…"
It grew louder.
"Aha... AHAHAHAHAHAHA!!"
He threw his head back.
A full, unhinged laugh burst out of him, like something inside cracked wide open.
Everyone stared.
