"Miss Robin's spirit of self-sacrifice was truly moving." Admiration and regret showed in Himeko's eyes.
"The Star Rail Express also solemnly promises that we will never abandon a single companion." Her voice was gentle yet resolute, softly echoing through the empty Vortex Core.
After waiting a while longer and confirming that no further communications were coming through, Himeko finally turned and walked steadily toward the [Overflowing Chalice] at the heart of the Vortex Core.
Her figure gradually merged into it, entering Amphoreus.
Okhma City.
Overflowing Main Pool.
The pool water still rippled with a faint warmth, while the air retained the delicate fragrance of bathing products.
By then, Welt, Sunday, and Black Swan had already arrived and spent some time observing the area.
Seeing Himeko arrive, Welt adjusted his glasses and looked around the overly silent, lavish hall, his voice filled with obvious confusion.
"There's... no one here."
"What is it?" Himeko stopped and carefully surveyed her surroundings.
She saw towels casually draped over the lounge chairs by the pool. Some exquisite toiletries still bore signs of use, and an open makeup case sat on the vanity.
Nothing here looked as if it had been struck by a sudden disaster. Instead, it was full of the traces of everyday life.
"Based on the evidence here, the [New World] was still enjoying peaceful days not long ago," Welt analyzed.
Sunday gently shook his head. He had keenly noticed something unusual in the air.
"I'm afraid it was more recent than merely [not long ago]."
Black Swan lightly touched the lingering glimmers of Memoria in the air with her fingertips. She closed her eyes to sense them for a moment before opening them again.
"The fruit on the table was freshly cut, and the bathwater is at just the right temperature."