Lumi giggled softly, relief evident in her laughter. [Well, at least you’re still making jokes, Master! That means you’re truly alright.]
Orion chuckled gently before exhaling deeply, consciously willing himself to withdraw from his Sea of Consciousness. Almost instantly, his perception shifted, and he found himself back within his physical body.
To his immense relief, Orion immediately realized he had complete, unhindered control over his physical form. The strange sensation of being merged with the World Tree Seed had not imprisoned him, as he’d briefly feared.
Rather, it had simply granted him another profound state of being within his own Sea of Consciousness.
Reassured, Orion slowly closed his eyes again, purposefully diving back into his inner realm. Instantly, his consciousness merged with the Seed once more, his senses deeply intertwined with its rich and vibrant essence.
Yet this time, instead of anxiety, he felt only calmness. Orion closed his eyes within his inner world, carefully immersing himself in deep, tranquil meditation.
As he meditated, he distinctly sensed a profound, indescribable change slowly emerging from within. It wasn’t something as simple as a physical transformation or advancement in cultivation; it felt far more significant, more meaningful.
This change resonated deeply, not only through his spiritual form but also through his very soul, promising an evolution that was beyond mere power.
He remained suspended within his Sea of Consciousness, immersed deeply in meditation, the serene stillness gently enveloping him. The chaos from moments ago felt distant now, replaced by an overwhelming tranquility.
"Valerian," Orion whispered softly, a hint of fierce resolve flashing momentarily within his tranquil eyes. "Next time we meet, things will be different."
Back at the battlefield, Valerian stood calmly amidst the lingering aftermath of the spatial disruption, his pale hand gradually lowering as he watched the fading remnants of the teleportation portal ripple away into nothingness.
His scarlet eyes narrowed thoughtfully, a flicker of cold amusement dancing briefly within their depths.
Around him, the battlefield had temporarily halted, as if the very world was holding its breath after Orion’s dramatic disappearance.
Valerian’s generals, each radiating fierce, malevolent strength, hovered silently nearby, their gazes fixed obediently upon their leader, awaiting his command.
After several moments, Valerian turned around slowly, his elegant black cloak fluttering gently around him.
His expression was unreadable, but his eyes held an unmistakable intensity. When he finally spoke, his voice was soft yet commanding, clearly audible to his loyal generals.
"Spread out and find him for me," Valerian instructed calmly, his words precise and chillingly controlled. "I’ve destabilized the portal, and he wasn’t able to leave. He is still here, somewhere close by."
In immediate unison, the ten generals snapped to attention, their expressions hardened into grim determination. "Yes, my Lord!" they responded fiercely, voices echoing sharply in crisp unity.
Valerian’s pale lips curved into a faint smile, subtle amusement flickering briefly through his crimson eyes. He tilted his head slightly, adding quietly but firmly, "And remember, do not kill him. Bring him to me alive."
The generals nodded respectfully, their understanding clear. Without another word, they surged upward, scattering instantly in different directions at breathtaking speeds, leaving only dark blurs in their wake.
Valerian remained where he stood, quietly observing as his subordinates vanished into the horizon. His expression was serene, almost thoughtful, as if he was contemplating a puzzle rather than dealing with an escaped adversary.
Slowly, his gaze drifted toward the halted armies that now stared at him with a mixture of fear, hesitation, and uncertainty.
His eyes met the wary gazes of the Tigerkin, whose expressions twisted with hopelessness, grief, and despair.
They stood shaken, their King’s violent and tragic death still haunting their minds, casting a heavy pall over their ranks. The morale that had kept them steadfast was now frayed and fractured.
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