Arthur held Astarte's gaze for a moment atop the World Tree before dipping his head slightly in a half-bow.
"My work is not done yet, my lady," Arthur said. "If you will give me a moment, I will return to your side. Don't worry."
Astarte's eyes narrowed faintly, as though she were trying to restrain herself.
For several silent seconds, neither of them spoke again. The ancient branches of the World Tree swayed gently overhead, their countless leaves shimmering with a soft emerald radiance that illuminated the battlefield below. The wind carried the lingering scent of blood, burnt mana, and shattered earth. Even after such a fierce battle, the World Tree itself remained majestic and unmoved, as though it had witnessed countless conflicts far greater than this one.
A second later, she gave a small nod.
Arthur stepped off the branch.
He descended from the World Tree and landed lightly on the ground below before walking toward Barbatos.
