Christine watched Joseph's back, her eyes filled with desolation.
Joseph was a descendant of the teacher, only a year or two older than her. As a youth, he was sent to the Divine Court and ascended to the high tier Sanctuary through his abilities, truly a promising young man.
Does he not know the Wende Empire's demise is inevitable?
Of course, he knows.
Even if he knows, some things still must be done.
Joseph's family is a hereditary nobility of the Wende Empire, with ancestors who were renowned generals. Their fate is deeply tied to the Empire.
If he doesn't return, people will criticize him for the rest of his life.
Christine is different.
She is clergy serving the Goddess, merely born in the Wende Empire.
She has received the Wende Empire's grace but has long repaid it with her performances on the battlefield.
Though she feels sorrow for the Empire's plight, she has no stance or reason to accompany it to the grave.
