Back in reality, Shorekeeper begins explaining more about the Black Shores and Rover’s past understanding of the Tethys System — the water lapping against the dark sands.

The Shorekeeper: “From the distant past to the far future, everything begins and ends here. When you established the Black Shores to unite Solaris, the Tethys System already existed. Later, you discovered it relied on emotions from the Lament to fuel its calculations. Without them, it cannot function. Using the Lament against itself is like walking on a Möbius loop with no end in sight.”

The Shorekeeper: “We have tried for millennia to break this cycle without success. And then… you left the Black Shores to look for other solutions. But deep down, you already knew the best solution. It was one you couldn’t accept. That solution is me — the tool always meant to become Tethys’ core. If I don’t do this, you, as the Modulator of this system, will be chosen as the core. I must fulfill my duty to protect you. But… I want to be by your side, to see the skies you’ve seen, to tread the paths you’ve wlaked. I want to understand… what happiness really means.”

She slowly backs away from Rover.

The Shorekeeper: “When I first discovered these emotion, I didn’t know what to do… So I lied to you, thinking it was the best choice for both of us… I… I’m sorry… Sorry for putting you in harm’s way…”

Rover: “Salvation is about building a world where people no longer need to be saved. This is why we return to this shore.”

Rover walks back up to Shorekeeper.

Rover: “No one should be treated as a mere tool.”

The Shorekeeper: “I…”

Rover: “We’re back at the Black Shores now, back to our home. Welcome home, my Shorekeeper.”

She’s shocked. But happy. The sun rises in the distance — a new day has come.

The Shorekeeper: “Yes. Thank you. My… star.”