*Location — Mellinum / seminar meeting room*

Within the hallowed halls of Millennium Science School, the Seminar convened in a chamber atop the Millennium Tower. Yuuka Hayase, the diligent treasurer, began the meeting by presenting recent findings.

"Following the incident resulting in Nagisa's death, our research team detected anomalous energy readings in the Abydos Desert. The levels exceeded typical parameters, suggesting a significant confrontation occurred."

Ushio Noa, the meticulous secretary known for her exceptional memory, adjusted her glasses thoughtfully. "Given the data, it's plausible that Nyx was involved. Her capabilities pose a potential threat, and we should consider bringing her in for questioning."

Kurosaki Koyuki, usually known for her playful demeanor, wore an uncharacteristically serious expression. "Sensei places immense trust in all his students, including Nyx. He may oppose any action that undermines that trust."

Noa nodded, acknowledging the point. "While Sensei's trust is a factor, we cannot ignore the potential danger Nyx represents. We must proceed cautiously."

Yuuka interjected, "Our immediate priority should be to gather more information. I propose dispatching a team to Abydos to investigate the site and determine the exact nature of the energy readings."

After a moment of contemplation, Noa agreed. "Very well. We'll organize an investigative team. In the meantime, let's adjourn and reconvene once we have more concrete data."

As the meeting concluded, the members of Seminar dispersed, each lost in their thoughts about the unfolding events.

Meanwhile, in a modest room within Hoshino's residence in Abydos, Nyx lay on a makeshift bed, her mind racing. The recent encounter with Seia replayed incessantly in her thoughts.

"Why did Seia act so differently?" she murmured to herself.

A familiar presence manifested beside her—a man with striking magenta hair.

"Salvation has taken hold," he stated plainly.

Nyx sat up, confusion evident on her face. "Salvation?"

The man sighed, as if explaining a complex concept to a novice. "In this world, there exist deities or entities, each embodying a specific purpose. Chroma represents the destruction of Kivotos and the intertwining of timelines. I, as Animation, signify the potential end of Kivotos and perhaps even entities like Chroma, depending on my inclinations."

Nyx furrowed her brow. "And Salvation?"

"Salvation is the entity that offers paradise," he explained. "Consider the Fifth Koan: 'Can you prove the truth of those who have reached paradise?' Seia yearned for salvation, and thus, she was 'blessed' with it, though not entirely. That's why she managed to break free momentarily."

Nyx pondered this revelation. "Does this mean Chroma will come for us?"

The man fell silent, uncertainty clouding his features. "I cannot say for certain. What I do know is that you haven't fully embraced Annihilation. Should you do so, it would evolve into Genocide, its most potent form, surpassing all deities in strength. However, the path to embracing Annihilation remains elusive, even to me."

With that, he vanished, leaving Nyx alone with her thoughts.

She lay back, staring at the ceiling, her mind drifting to the enigmatic Fifth Koan: 'Can you prove the truth of those who have reached paradise?' The paradox gnawed at her, but exhaustion soon claimed her, and she drifted into a restless sleep.

In the heart of Abydos High School, a tense atmosphere filled the room as Sensei and the remaining students awaited the arrival of the Seminar delegation from Millennium Science School. Hoshino, the de facto leader of the Abydos Foreclosure Task Force, paced nervously.

"I really hope this doesn't escalate into a fight," Hoshino murmured, her brow furrowed with concern.

Nyx, seated nearby, nodded in agreement. "I'm too exhausted for any more confrontations today."

A firm knock on the door interrupted their thoughts. Nonomi quickly moved to answer it, revealing Yuuka Hayase, Noa Ushio, and Koyuki Kurosaki standing at the threshold.

"Welcome," Sensei greeted them, gesturing for the trio to enter. Once everyone was seated, Yuuka wasted no time.

Turning her attention to the unfamiliar face in the room, Yuuka asked, "And who might you be?"

"This is Nyx," Sensei introduced.

Noa's eyes narrowed as she leaned forward. "Nyx, can you explain what exactly happened? We've received reports of significant disturbances."

Nyx sighed, rubbing her temples. "Honestly, I don't have all the answers. Things have been... chaotic."

Koyuki, who had been silent until now, spoke up, her tone unusually serious. "Sensei, we understand your trust in your students, but the magnitude of these events can't be ignored."

Sensei nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "I assure you, we're doing everything we can to get to the bottom of this."

Yuuka glanced at her companions before addressing the room. "Given the circumstances, we believe it's best to collaborate. Abydos and Millennium should work together to uncover the truth and prevent further incidents."

Hoshino exchanged a look with Nyx, then turned to the Seminar members. "Agreed. Let's put our heads together and figure this out."