Yesterday, Belli mysteriously mentioned today's meeting, saying Bologue had something to give her, but now he has no intention of handing it over.

"Up there."

Bologue pointed upward, without clarifying his words.

Aimou didn't ask much further; besides Belli, she trusted Bologue the most within the vast Order Bureau, even if he said the elevator led straight to the Great Rift, she had no objections.

Soon the elevator reached its destination, stopped steadily, and the elevator door opened, allowing the warm sunlight to flood in, too bright for Aimou to keep her eyes open.

Aimou knew the various peculiar properties of the Cultivation Room, like this towering building that had no windows communicating with the outside world, let alone sunlight pouring in.

The moment the light touched her skin, warm feelings enchanted Aimou, making her realize the human shell wasn't completely useless.

"It was only after I was assigned to the Unshakable that I became aware of this department's existence, but more impressive than this is the observation deck above here."

The mysterious Observation Tower unfolded before her, and Bologue timely explained to Aimou.

Aimou gazed in awe at this massive department surrounded by countless glasses, unobstructed sunlight pouring down.

Bologue didn't lead Aimou deeper into the Observation Tower but walked up the spiral staircase along one side, pushing open the door at the end to reveal the vast sky.

Aimou was speechless at the stunning view, "This is..."

Bologue glanced around; underfoot was a firm ground of gray and white bricks, while on the other side was the intricate glass window covering the Observation Tower.

To be accurate, this should count as the rooftop of the Cultivation Room, but rarely anyone comes here, and few even know about it.

"Have a seat."

Surprisingly, there were several long benches on the rooftop, and Bologue sat on one close to the edge.

"How about it? It's nice here, right?" Bologue smiled, "Finding a place to bask in the sun in Opus is really too difficult."

Aimou nodded, gazing around.

This is a lonely yet beautiful world, the Cultivation Room like the only spire-reef standing amidst a sea of clouds, the morning light rising from the horizon, dyeing the surroundings in Canyin hues, and higher up, Aimou could clearly see the stars that hadn't faded away.

"It's truly beautiful..."

Aimou murmured, her human shell granting her sharper vision, enabling her to observe more complex colors; these vibrant lights gathered together, captivating her endlessly.

"Speaking of... I never properly thanked you."

"Thank me for what?"

Bologue didn't quite understand Aimou's words, as he took out a folder from his inner pocket, opened the seal, and poured out a stack of documents.

Aimou said, "For everything you've done for me."

"It's nothing, I feel it's what should be done," Bologue shared his thoughts, "Everyone is independent, proud, rejecting others."

"People might establish intimate relationships, but even in such relationships, few would show their vulnerable sides."

Bologue recalled Aimou's self-disclosure during Time Reversal, where she exposed her frailty, even though she believed Bologue wouldn't remember it all, and things would restart, the fact of her action was undeniable.

"But you did it, Aimou, you showed me your vulnerability, and I saw it. I cannot turn a blind eye."

Bologue looked at Aimou bathed in the morning light; she had gained a new life, her appearance like the adjustments made by Belli, no longer resembling Alice, nor was she Belli, Bologue thought, this must be what Aimou wanted — she was no longer someone's shadow but became a truly independent individual.

With this in mind, Bologue spoke seriously and solemnly.

"This is a magnificent world, the spirit and will of individuals mean nothing; everything will eventually tumble into the ruins of time, yet even in such a cruel reality, there are places of solace.

We are destined to fade away, but the fact of our existence is undeniably real, you too, Aimou.

You are not a substitute for anyone; you are unique."

Aimou and Bologue's gazes locked; she felt the sincerity in Bologue's words, it was a blessing from Bologue; he hoped his words would offer Aimou some support, enabling the vulnerable to navigate comfortably in this grim world.

Bologue whispered softly, "I was once saved by someone like this; she placed hope in me, and now I've done it, saved you, without any disappointment."

Aimou remained silent for a while, staring straight at Bologue, feeling compelled to do so, knowing she must.

"I'm sorry.

Sorry, Bologue."

Aimou didn't look away, facing what she needed to confront.

"Regardless of the disorderly timeline or my reckless actions... I'm sorry for everything that happened."

For a long time, only gusts of wind could be heard.

Bologue raised an eyebrow, realizing Aimou had grown quicker than he imagined, responding.

"I forgive you."

Aimou summoned her courage, ready to accept the punishment that followed; this was what should happen. Yet, Bologue was busy with his own matters, prompting Aimou to ask, "And then?"

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