He had forgotten.
Just as fate would never leave you with so many lucky breaks.
The backed-up records were still from over a decade ago. A backup every ten-odd years was not really such a long interval, because to a god, that was no more than the blink of an eye.
But for certain relationships that had already left deep marks, how many decades could they withstand?
"I truly never imagined that I would meet a second person who wielded psionics in this Dark World in my lifetime. Mr. Lynn, honestly, I'm happy. Happier than I've ever been."
On the journey back to Dark Night City.
He spoke gently with Lynn at length, as though they were meeting for the first time.
There was a little unfamiliarity, along with a trace of gratification he could not hide.
It was just like the astonishment he had felt when he first saw Lynn use psionics. As the last keeper of the Cyber Civilization's grave, encountering an heir to psionics in this dark, oppressive hell meant more to him than anyone else could imagine.
"Big Brother Awen, if you don't mind, just call me Lynn. There's no need to be so polite. You make it sound like we don't know each other."
Lynn laughed it off and waved a hand, acting as casually as though they were already old friends.
"Besides, this isn't the first time I've heard you say that. When you first saw me use psionics, you were way more excited than you are now. This is nothing compared to that!"
But the familiar rap on the head never came.
He only saw Awen pause.
Then Awen rubbed his temple and gave a faintly apologetic smile, as though telling Lynn that he no longer remembered many of the things that had