Natsuki Subaru's accumulated despair, loneliness, and fear over the past several days finally seemed to have found an outlet.
As scalding tears slid down his cheeks, they also washed away the darkness in his heart.
"You should thank the Lord of Stars who created this place."
Aizen, seated in the Gemini seat, wore his usual gentle smile.
His gaze shifted ever so slightly toward the Leo seat directly opposite him.
In a perfectly measured tone, he reminded Natsuki Subaru who the true master of this place was.
The latter immediately realized.
He hurriedly wiped away his tears with his sleeve, rose from the Aries seat, and gave an exceedingly solemn bow toward the mysterious figure shrouded in Starshine.
"Th-thank you very much as well, Lord of Stars! Thank you for allowing me to appear here and meet you, Mr. Aizen, and Princess Perona!"
Natsuki Subaru's voice was still somewhat choked with emotion, which only made him sound more sincere.
"The convergence of knowledge, the collision of wisdom, a dawn amid despair, and helping hands in times of hardship."
"This is the meaning behind the existence of the Star Council."
"I hope you will make good use of what you gain here."
Imu's words, accompanied by the unchanging Starshine, truly kindled within Natsuki Subaru a spark called hope that could transcend despair.
His recognition of the Star Council had also nearly reached its peak.
He abruptly stood up, spread his arms, and announced loudly:
"I swear that if any other council member encounters trouble in the future, and I have the ability to help, I will certainly give it my all!"
"I will carry out the Lord of Stars' will and pass on the Star Council's goodwill and unity!"
So cringe. Incredibly cringe. As expected of 486, a terminal case of