The casualties from the siege were catastrophic.
Jessica had been working without rest since the battle began, her mana reserves depleted and regenerated multiple times as she poured healing magic into defender after defender, keeping people alive through sheer determination and skill.
She was just finishing sealing the orc's chest wound when reality itself seemed to shift.
Satou materialized in the center of the medical station, appearing from shadow with Seraphina's unconscious form cradled in his arms.
Every conscious defender in the room turned at his sudden appearance, eyes widening in recognition.
"Lord Satou!"
"He's back!"
"The demon lord returned!"
Jessica's head snapped up, her golden eyes—identical to Lyra's—widening as she took in the scene. Satou, covered in blood and ash, his scales cracked in dozens of places. And Seraphina, one of the most powerful beings Jessica had ever met, unconscious and clearly critically injured.
