In the face of James’ words, Perthacus approached like a lost soul. “You...”

He was about to speak when James waved his hand, casting a Soundproof Barrier made of gray, black, and white energies that immediately enveloped the entire Yggdrasil Palace.

“You haven’t perished?” Perthacus stared intently at James, his lips trembling. “Why have you completely changed your appearance? I can’t even recognize you anymore, and your aura...”

“By surviving calamity.” James smiled faintly. “When even my Golden Body and internal organs have been recast, how could I not expect a change in appearance?”

At these words, Perthacus’ hands trembled as he slowly reached for James’ cheek. Suddenly, tears streamed down his face the moment his touch made contact.

Seeing this, James’ face showed a relieved smile. “Don’t be like this. We’re both old now.”

Standing beside them, Lucille sighed lightly and struggled to find words.

“I thought you perished in the void of the Timaeus Sect,” Perthacus said, tear