Elegy from Another World

As the conclusion of "tomb" settled in the laboratory, the atmosphere became solemn and somber. This invisible ark, adrift deep within the network, carries not treasures or knowledge, but the names and silent memories of countless departed souls.

"Lady Lysia," Edcessis looked at me, her tone questioning, "this tomb... what should we do with it? Should we try to repair it and allow it to continue its voyage?"

I remained silent for a moment, my fingers unconsciously tracing the edge of the control panel, a complex and indescribable emotion swirling within me. Gazing at the obelisk on the screen, engraved with unfamiliar names, I seemed to feel a silent sigh emanating from the other side of the river of time.

"To be honest," I said softly, a hint of reluctance in my voice, "looking at this monument drifting in the void, I also have an urge to preserve it as it is. It's like a way of respecting the past."

My words silenced everyone, and they all looked at me.

“But,” I looked up, my gaze sweeping over my companions, “we must face reality. This ark is a thing of the past. It’s broken, silent, and without guardians. Like a flower blooming in a deserted corner, no matter how beautiful, it will eventually wither and vanish in the wind. And we…” I gestured around, “we are still alive. The Drei is our present, our home. It has just been severely damaged and desperately needs repair.”

My tone became more earnest, rather than commanding: "I'm not ordering you around, but discussing the most realistic option with you all. The technology contained within this tomb, especially its unique materials and energy properties, could greatly enhance our survival capabilities and increase our chances of surviving in this perilous world of the net.

I paused, allowing everyone to process the weight of my words. "We are not destroyers; we are travelers struggling to survive. If using these unclaimed, soon-to-be-extinct resources can make us and the Dreil stronger, and protect more lives like ours that want to live, then... I believe we should do it. It may not be the most 'noble' choice, but it may be the most responsible choice—responsible to those who are alive."

I looked at G. Laura and Naa: "I understand your reluctance, truly. Destroying a site feels like erasing a piece of history. But I think if these deceased could know, they might prefer to see their 'legacy' used to prolong life, rather than disappearing completely into nothingness along with the ruins."

"So," I concluded, my voice gentle yet firm, "my proposal is: we preserve this obelisk as a memorial to the past and a clue. At the same time, we should carefully search for any other remains similar to those of the 'Code Man,' and preserve and study them properly. As for the rest of the tomb… after ensuring the obelisk's safe relocation, we can use its valuable materials to repair and reinforce the Dreil. What do you all think?"

The laboratory fell silent for a moment as everyone weighed their options.

Zoemem touched her still-healing wound and nodded first: "I agree. Living is more important than anything else."

Sarkozyn's cool voice rang out: "Rational analysis supports this plan. Although there are regrets emotionally, survival is the primary logic."

Edsey looked into my eyes and slowly nodded: "I understand. Rather than guarding a past destined to vanish, let it nourish a future full of possibilities."

Naa pushed up his glasses and sighed, "From the perspective of resource utilization and risk aversion... it is indeed the optimal solution. I agree."

After a long silence, G. Laura finally whispered, "Perhaps... letting their existence continue in another way is a kind of comfort."

Seeing that everyone had basically reached a consensus, I breathed a sigh of relief. "Okay. So, regarding this obelisk," I pointed to the screen, "I suggest placing it in a prominent position at the top of the Dreil. In case... I mean in case, there really are still gravediggers searching for it in the vast network, when they see this obelisk, they can find us. This way, we both preserve a clue and express our respect. Is this acceptable?"

This respectful yet pragmatic supplementary plan was unanimously approved. The resolution was thus established. The operation began, with remembrance for the deceased and hope for the future of the living; a difficult but necessary project unfolded in the silent network.