He really came... Luminas thought.

Veldora stood there, completely unfazed, even in front of Dagruel, he showed not a hint of fear.

Of course he didn’t. Unlike Luminas, who was helpless within the Suspended World, Veldora could move freely in it, as if it were perfectly natural.

Watching Veldora, Luminas felt the crushing despair that had consumed her until now suddenly seem absurd. The tension that had wound her up in the face of death began to dissolve, and for some reason, a wave of relief washed over her. But that was an emotion she didn’t want to admit.

(Ridiculous! For me to feel relieved just because Veldora came? Unthinkable!)

Trying to shake off the feeling rising in her heart, Luminas forced her attention back to the present situation.

“KUAHAHAHAHA! I have arrived!”

Even after declaring his arrival, Veldora continued his booming laughter. Despite the dire circumstances, his demeanor remained as carefree as ever. And oddly enough, that very attitude brought Luminas an even deeper sense of relief.

Within this frozen moment in time, no one could hear that voice. No one, except Dagruel, the one that had activated the Suspended World itself. And yet, that carefree laughter, so out of place in this situation, was exactly the same as always.