"Yes. Using humanity's limited intellect to analyze the laws of the universe is itself an expression of order.
That is precisely what the evolution of the universe requires."
Edwin answered. After speaking, he paused before adding, "The only key point of this structure is that I will hold ultimate control over the layer of faith serving as the buffer and filter in the middle."
Like a stone cast into a still lake, those words did not stir up towering waves, yet they sent the faintest ripples through Stiano's heart.
It meant that the source of his future power, the bridge between him and his divinity, would forever remain in another person's hands.
He would be handing over his lifeline.
Yet with almost no hesitation, Stiano gave his answer.
"It doesn't matter."
This was neither impulse nor blind trust, but the most rational choice after a long period of observation and consideration.
Over the years, he had personally witnessed everything Edwin had done.
He had long understood the power this man possessed and the beliefs he upheld.
If Edwin truly coveted his godhood, there would have been no need for such a complicated arrangement.
After all, digesting the Uniqueness he possessed required the development of human civilization.
And given Edwin's achievements, he was far more suited to that divine position than Stiano was.
In other words, if Edwin wanted to become Sequence 0, all he had to do was kill him, and he could digest the potion in an instant.
But he had not done so.
Instead, he had patiently taught him knowledge and helped him avoid the dangers of digesting potions. At first, Stiano had been somewhat doubtful, unable to believe there was such a thing as a free lunch.
Only later did he learn that what Edwin sought was