Obsidian stared intently at the [ID Card] in his hand, reflecting quietly.
In fact, when Theresa had joined him in viewing that possibility, he'd concealed something from her.
Because, in truth, The City had been involved in that alternate reality.
Granted, the involvement had been minimal, limited only to a tiny fragment of The City—but what Obsidian found deeply astonishing was that, in that possible future, The City had existed as a fully realized entity.
All of its Wings were present, complete and thriving. Numerous Singularities and extraordinary Workshop inventions appeared in abundance. In such a version of The City, a Finger known as the Index had stepped forward to assist Kazdel.
Recalling the vision he'd witnessed, Obsidian couldn't help but marvel.
So, you're saying in that timeline, The City was fully realized?
They successfully released a complete [Seed of Light]?
And that Light didn't birth any cybernetic ghost girls, allowing everyone to properly face their true selves, with nearly all who awakened becoming either high-level Distortions or even Jinbei?
Kazdel's will had been heard and woven directly into the Loom of The City itself?
The commands of the Index had reached Kazdel, guiding its fate?
The Index had directly intervened, their instructions subtly influencing Kazdel's unification?
And now I've drawn an [ID Card] for a Jinbei-level Messenger of the Index from that exact timeline!?
Thinking back on that future, Obsidian still felt a sense of awe.
Of course, he knew this [ID Card] was probably originally just an ordinary Index Proselyte without such grandiose origins…
But that was before.
When that unknown entity had intervened, enhancing the [ID Card] with its radiant touch, the result had been far beyond ordinary.
Truly, small workshops really go heavy on their enhancements—turning a simple identity into something practically divine.
"Well, since this Identity originated from Kazdel's story, it's only fitting it returns there, to begin—and perhaps conclude—its tale."
Exhaling softly, Obsidian settled his thoughts and closed his eyes, allowing his consciousness to descend into Heal once more.
Now, she needed to select another suitable body to host this Identity. In terms of strength, this Jinbei was comparable to Hai—perhaps even slightly stronger, comfortably in the upper echelons of Grade-1.
Though most embryos had been expended during the confrontation with [Nothing There], enough had accumulated over the past half-month to find something suitable.
By the time Kazdel's matters concluded, he could begin establishing the Index formally. After all, having only The Thumb dominate The City felt somehow incomplete.
Heal considered this quietly as she selected the next vessel.
Her eyes settled on a white-haired youth with a few strands of black mixed in. Observing the boy who lay silently with eyes closed, Heal's lips curled gently.
"You'll do nicely—the new 'us.'"
Releasing the vessel, Heal opened his eyelids to reveal shimmering golden irises. After confirming the body could handle the [ID Card]'s strength, she held out her hand, and the card—Messenger of the Index—appeared with a bright flash.
"From here on, the stage is yours, 'me.'"
With a deep breath, Obsidian transferred his consciousness into the young boy. Just before the transfer finalized, Heal paused thoughtfully, then softly murmured:
"Well… you'll need a name, new 'me.' How about… Suo Bismar?"
After brief contemplation, Heal casually named the newly awakened boy.
Thus, Suo raised his head, the [ID Card] swiftly enveloping him in the Index's ornate robes. Eyes half-lidded—so narrow they seemed barely open—he obscured half of his face beneath a cloak resembling a ceremonial mask.
From this moment, he existed as Suo, Messenger of the Index.
He was simultaneously an emissary and an extension of The City's Will itself.
He was The City, a direct embodiment of its intent. Seen in that light, no one was more suited to serve as the Index's Messenger than him.
Taking up the massive greatsword beside him, Suo slung it casually across his back. With a nod toward Heal, he departed without hesitation.
His next destination was Kazdel.
"What interesting stories await this time, I wonder?"
Watching him leave, Heal smiled gently, whispering quietly to herself. After stretching lazily, she turned and strolled leisurely out of the factory.
"Well, K Corp should also enjoy itself thoroughly in this little game…"
---
X and Da'at stood facing each other, silent. Eventually, X moved to the window, gazing thoughtfully at the distant scenery before speaking slowly.
"Kazdel's civil war should be approaching its conclusion… With Theresa there to persuade Theresis, there shouldn't be much of an issue."
"What remains are primarily internal and external tensions. The Ten Kings' Court, for instance, and outside forces unhappy with the prospect of Kazdel ruled jointly by two monarchs…"
"But that has nothing to do with us. After all, we're merely merchants."
X spoke with calm detachment, then continued softly:
"Still, that also means—as merchants—we can use this chaos to acquire more for ourselves."
---
"Hey! Nearl! Look at this!"
At the same time, inside the La Mancha Fixer Office, Nearl sighed deeply, staring blankly at the excited Don Quixote bounding toward her, grinning joyfully and waving something in his hands.
By now, she'd grown accustomed to Don Quixote's antics.
In fact, she'd probably panic if Don Quixote ever behaved seriously…
"What is it this time, Don Quixote-san?"
Nearl lifted her head wearily, her tone resigned.
"It's permission from Hai! Now, our adventures can expand even further! We're allowed to leave The City and continue our legendary journey outside!"
Nearl's vision briefly darkened as she listened to Don Quixote's enthusiastic declaration. She eyed the official permit with silent despair.
Why…? Why would Hai suddenly give Don Quixote such dangerous permission at a time like this?
"…Fine. And just where exactly are you thinking of going first?"
Nearl asked, barely masking her reluctance.
"Hmmm…let me think! How about we start by checking out Kazdel?"
Don Quixote's voice was bright with excitement.