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"I have to admit, you're not weak…"
The entity behind this manifestation revealed itself. The trident had pierced Maria's chest, its divine power and destructive energy surging through her body, attempting to annihilate her from within.
And yet… she remained standing.
"W-What…! Who…?! Who are you?!"
The King gasped, his hands trembling in disbelief and fear as he recognized the figure before him.
"I am Maria, that boy's stepmother. You tortured him because you believed he was your daughter. You even ripped his soul from his body, thinking it would somehow bring her back, didn't you?"
"T-That's…!"
"That boy's name is Celes. He is not Naiad. His soul may have belonged to her, but your daughter is dead. She died hundreds of years ago, protecting those she loved. Her soul rested for ages before reincarnating into that boy."
"N-No…"
"She's… dead?"
Thalassa and Oceanus gasped, their eyes wide with horror and grief as the truth sank in.
