The Absolute Surrender

Chapter 32: Absolute Surrender

"Do you have to go back to your world? Can you just stay here for good?" Obene asked, his voice tinged with sadness as he and Lilian sat together in the lush garden, now blooming with vibrant colors and life. The serenity of the place contrasted sharply with the gravity of their conversation.

Days had passed since the harrowing battle, and the weight of their choices was palpable. Lilian had been wrestling with her decision, torn between the realm that had become her home and the reality she had to return to with Noah. The emotional turmoil of leaving behind a world that had offered her both pain and profound connection was not lost on her.

After much soul-searching and heartfelt discussion with Noah, Lilian had resolved to return to her world. She needed to understand her true feelings for Obene, Kalen, Ardan, and the others, and whether her attachment was genuine or merely a fleeting emotional response born out of their shared experiences. It was important to her to ensure that her feelings were real, and she could only do that by taking time away from them. Moreover, she needed to determine if this world was where she truly belonged or if it was just a temporary sanctuary.

She turned her gaze back to Obene and smiled softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of affection and resolve. "This is not my world, and I want to make the right choices. It's only right that I return to my world and figure things out once I get there," she explained with a wistful tone.

Kalen, who had been listening quietly, suddenly joined the conversation. His presence was reassuring as he squeezed in beside Lilian. "But will you be able to return here if you want to?" he asked, his curiosity mingling with a hint of concern.

"I don't know, but maybe I can find a way by then," Lilian replied, her voice filled with uncertainty about what the future held.

The day of departure arrived, and the grand hall within the palace grounds seemed to resonate with a solemn ambiance. Ardan, standing tall and regal, embraced Lilian once more, his eyes reflecting sincere well-wishes and gratitude. "Good luck, Lilian. You have always been a beacon of strength and hope."

Lilian hugged him tightly, her gratitude for his support and kindness evident. She had leaned on him during her moments of doubt and was deeply appreciative of his presence in her life.

Kalen then approached Noah, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "You have done well, Noah. Thank you for protecting Lilian. Please continue to do so when you get back to your world," he said earnestly.

Noah responded with a warm smile, shaking Kalen's hand firmly. "I will, Kalen. Thank you for everything."

Noah turned to Roma with a playful smirk. "Do not go abducting people anymore," he joked, eliciting a chuckle from Roma.

"I cannot make that firm promise yet," Roma replied with a knowing smile. "Perhaps someday we will meet again..."

"Safe travels, Noah and Lilian," Roma bid them farewell, his voice carrying a note of finality.

In the center of the grand chamber, Noah and Lilian stood holding the Babylon candle, their fingers intertwined around the relic. They exchanged heartfelt goodbyes with Ardan, Kalen, Obene, and Roma. As they recited the incantation to transport them back to their world, the four men watched in awe as the two figures slowly vanished into thin air, their presence disappearing like a fleeting dream.

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Years had passed since Lilian and Noah returned to their world, and while much of the world around them had remained unchanged, their lives had taken on new directions. Noah had chosen to pursue his studies, determined to become a lawyer, while Lilian continued working at the diner, but with a renewed purpose. She was now saving every penny to fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor. Her goal was to help others, to heal them, and to be their source of strength in times of pain and sickness. Occasionally, she would reminisce about the warmth that once flowed through her hands when she had the power to heal, a gift she now deeply missed.