[Elysia Ashwood's POV]
'T-This- m-my son is so...' My heart swelled with pride as I looked at Samael, standing tall and resolute in the aftermath of the battle. The boy I had nurtured and guided was now a formidable mage and a leader in his own right.
But then I noticed his trembling hand, as he tried to keep it from shaking by clenching it into a fist. The immense power he had wielded was not without its cost, and the strain was evident in his eyes. Despite his outward composure, I could sense the toll it had taken on him.
I could see he didn't want anyone to see his weakened form, even in a moment of vulnerability. His pride and sense of duty were as strong as the magic he wielded. I stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.
"let's go home, I want to take a rest," I said not wanting to discourage him. He nodded slightly, understanding my unspoken concern.