World in a nook

elwynn- she/her - 22 - writer - worldbuilder

[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 6: "Just be my saviour and take me away" [White Night]

<CHAPTER 5 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

TW : two suggestive sentences

in game : 2.1 with Aventurine and Ratio going to Sunday's office

characters present : Aventurine, Dr.Ratio

characters mentioned : Sunday, Robin's death

Word count : 1k667

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

Notes : The battle's aren't counted as such because I had no idea how to integrate them in the story with it making sense.

There was something unusual about Dr. Ratio being the one to inform of the meeting between Sunday and Aventurine. The usual interactions between the men were organised through you. You frowned but quickly realised that it was probably because the last time you organised a meeting: Robin’s death. So, this meant that Sunday doubted Aventurine. When you realised that, you preferred to stay quiet.

You looked down at Aventurine yet felt your heart stir as the man was like never you’ve been before: there was no mischievous smirk, no sharp eyes. Now he remained sleeping on the bar, unmoving except for the slow breathing. It was something that seemed foreign yet as precious as it was rare. So, you couldn’t be the one to wake him up. And it seemed Dr. Ratio understood it and raised his voice:

“Time to wake up, gambler…”

 You clenched your fist and teeth at the pointed words. As Aventurine woke up and began chatting, you looked at them. You groaned at the mentions of Aventurine testing his theories, owning a curious glance from the doctor. Though the news of another person dying to the memetic entity alarmed you more: even if it were just a stowaway, it meant that anyone could be taken away. You couldn’t a modus operandi for the killer, and you didn’t have enough information about the other victim to establish a profile. But your thoughts were once again interrupted by the doctor’s words:

“You shall, regrettably, find yourself under the vigilant watch of the Hounds.”

You were about to glare at those words, but his words weren’t following his eyes. He didn’t seem to hold any animosity towards you; in contrary it seemed almost gentle and understanding. You thought asking him, but it wouldn’t be possible since Sunday’s birds were everywhere and anywhere at once. You didn’t even know if you were watched right now. Now the thought didn’t seem right, each word could be fake like those exchanges.

The way to the Dewlight Pavillon with the two men consisted of them bickering and clashing in an everlasting back and forth. Despite Ratio’s sarcastic and almost dismissive remarks, Aventurine kept going back to the conversation. In your case you would have preferred an awkward silence to being diminished by the doctor. Yet again, there was something about the exchange as if they could communicate in other ways than by mere words. You had tried to analyse their body languages for any signs or in their words, everything seemed natural as if two colleagues forced by an employer to work together. Your instinct, probably from your years of training under THEIR words, was to try and keep them on an even ground:

“May I ask how you both met?”

“The gambler had to ask me a few questions for his mission.” Explained the doctor.

“And since, he was so tongue-twisted I had to help him untwist it.” Purred the blond.

There was a wave of emotions at the innuendo: from shock to curiosity then doubt, or was it jealousy? You opened your mouth but the mundanite added:

“He played a game a Russian roulette…Not anything else…”

“Typical…” You mumbled as you eyed Aventurine for both the innuendo and the game.

“Oh, come on, you should’ve seen your faces!”

The doctor grumbled something even though a blush had already reddened his cheeks. He strode forward with his long authoritative strides while the blond took the opportunity to ask you:

“My dear bodyguard, what did I see on your face? Was it jealousy?”

“Mr. Aventurine, what are you implying again?”

“Oh, you know very well what I’m implying, and you love this game…”

You rolled your eyes as you arrived to the Pavillon. You never understood Sunday’s way of testing his guests with many puzzles: he had told you that it was to make sure that he was addressing people of enough intellect to come to him. Yet Ratio’s metaphor of a “fortress” seemed more accurate: the puzzles were a way to protect himself from the outside, as the Dream was a fortress to protect THEIR plan.

Once you arrived at the grand hall, you looked at the icons of each Family and the city sandpit. Even though Aventurine mocked it for its grandeur, you couldn’t help yourself to comment:

“You’re the one speaking with your gilded chest window?”

“Because you’re looking there?” He retorted

“Could we keep going?” groaned Dr.Ratio with an eyeroll.

You chuckled at your back and forth while Aventurine brushed off your waist as he continued walking behind Ratio. You descended them past the sandpit and tried your key to the room ahead yet it was locked. This confirmed your earlier suspicions about the head of the Oak Family being suspicious of Aventurine. At least, Sunday had the custody of not putting anything in the hall except for the sandpit as a hint.

You went with Aventurine to find the missing piece. This was your time to ask :

“How can you keep working with Ratio? He is cold and condescending.”

“The doctor has his own way of showing his love. Hey you’re even lucky to see him without his bust for once.”

“So, he not only keeps an intellectual barrier but also a physical one ? Seriously, he is your opposite. How can you tolerate him ?”

“He’s more the one tolerating me, your early you would have said the same friend. Beside, Ratio and I date way back. We are opposites but that’s why we work together so well : we complement each other. Like you and I also !”

“We’re opposites?”

“You think about the whole of Penacony and I think about my mission.”

Once he declared this, he took the missing piece with a dramatic flourish. You rolled your eyes as you gathered back to the sandpit putting it back together. Once Aventurine put it back together, it was too late for you to react : there he was tiny in the sandpit. Aventurine’s trembling panick was the one thing to stop yours and instead you tried to hide your cackling: at least, you know the man wasn’t fearless. Meanwhile Ratio seemed bored by the whole deal of it.

As you watched the blond inside the sandpit you realised it was The Oak Family’s vision : THEIR gaze able to see and protect everyone inside it. Though, there seemed to be bugs inside the sandpit and Sunday hadn’t taken care of it. Was it the same case for THEM ? Why would they keep bugs such as the memetic entity inside it ? Aventurine’s words echoed again in your memories :“Maybe THEY aren’t as powerful as you thought.”

It was the only reason. As Sunday wasn’t capable of moving the whole sandpit, THEY wouldn’t protect everyone. This truth, affirmed again, felt bittersweet. However you couldn’t think about it before the doctor approached to randomnly talk about Aventurine :

“I heard people wrote scandalous rumours about his actions. Him always: “to hell all the rumours! The IPC has Lady Jade, beautiful and is most competent in sales.” Ever the arrogant we know.”

This didn’t sound like the doctor. The one you barely knew didn’t seem like the type to randomnly discuss rumours and the social work at play. So you reviewed what he had just told you. There was definitely something odd as he didn’t add anything else. No peculiar changes in the body language yet the change in the accentuation gave it away :

“I heard people wrote scandalous rumours about his actions. Him always: “to hellall the rumours! The IPC has Lady Jade, beautifuland is most competent in sales.” Ever the arrogantwe know.”

He had used a skip code to bypass Sunday’s supervision: I wrote about him to the IPC. Jade is in the know. You were glad that Aventurine had as a colleague one of the most intelligent person in the cosmos. At least if anything happened to Aventurine because of Sunday, the IPC and with it the Stonehearts would intervene.

You took a minute to compose yourself and a code before responding:

“Thank the Aeons, you are wise doctor. I have for long been your admirer about work.”

You couldn’t exchange more as Aventurine finally emerged from the sandpit, thankfully well. You made sure it hadn’t left any pieces of memoria on him before Ratio began again to ask about Aventurine’s plan.

“I don’t have a plan.”

These words didn’t sound like the usual Aventurine, he was ever-scheming. Each and every step you did together was planned towards his objective. So, this sentence was again, a fraud, a way to keep Sunday out of the equation but it also kept you. How could you follow along? You only had to analyse, not the follow THEIR path but his. Yet again Aventurine’s words echoed once more your fear:

“In the end, I’ll ruin this beautiful dream and create the grandest death.”

Ratio didn’t seem alarmed by those, yet you were almost panicked. Though you didn’t know which caused the more distress: the dreamscape or Aventurine disappearing were at the same level of priority. You didn’t know when this man had found your affection, but he did. Yet you hid it behind the veneer of orders and stopped him before he could go to Sunday:

“Aventurine, this isn’t a game. We are talking about the lives of many, including yours. We aren’t pawns or chips.”

“I’ve told you that you had become a player by my side.” He winked

<CHAPTER 5 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

tags : @sswrillya. @kakavshavasha, @reddenedhands

You want to be tagged ? Tell me in the comments !

[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 5 : I thought that dream could light our way [White Night]

CHAPTER 4 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

TW : loss of faith, alcohol, Soulglad intoxication,

in game : start of 2.1

characters present : Aventurine, Siobhan, Dr.Ratio

characters mentioned : Sunday, "Robin",Kakavasha's sister

Word count : 2k75

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

Notes : 2.1 is where I will most depart from the game since I consider Aventurine's journey with his other him to be intimate and with his innerself. It would be too easy for the MC to have his past exposed directly and it wouldn't be something he'd willingly do without some more time together.

“So long, friend. I really am looking forward to uncovering the truth about Death with everyone.”

And just like that, the Nameless had entered his game. It seemed almost too easy how it follows his decisions. If he were truly the sinner Sunday had told you about, why would THEY let him interfere in the dream? Now you were the one doubting the whole of it. He gave you a gentle nudge:

“Oh, come on, friend, worry does not look good on you. Let’s go have some more fun while they all chat about my proposition.”

“You seem quite relaxed for someone who witnessed death and is planning to overthrow the Harmony.”

“But I’m not going to do that, dear, I just want to see what secrets lies behind this dreamscape if it is truly possible to die here. And to be honest with you…”

And in a matter of seconds, he wrapped an arm around your waist, gloved hand brushing off. You could smell his fragrance: spiced, ambergris with a hint of citrus. His signature smirk returned as you looked utterly confused and he continued:

“I’m absolutely terrified.”

You pushed him away with a stern as he laughed at your embarrassment. He flicked a coin in his ringless hand, one of his many ways to hide his fidgeting, before correcting himself:

“You know I was almost honest, right there?”

“About you being terrified?”

“No, no” he chuckled “About you looking worried. What has my bodyguard looking all thoughtful?”

“All of this”

As you pointed towards the surrounding dreamscape, and unconsciously to Sunday’s birds, you looked back to Aventurine. You could not understand how he could always appear nonchalant as if everything were one of his games. His smirk became more sincere as he brushed off your waist:

“Worried about Death and its consequences ion the dreamscape, huh? Not abnormal for someone settled with the Harmony to dislike Chaos.”

“Aventurine, this isn’t about games.”

“I’m just stating a fact. Yet right now, it isn’t like you have a choice. Hell is one decision away from heaven. Either you act or you only get passed from player to player. At my side, even though you’re only a passive one, you’re still a player.”

“This wasn’t supposed to happen. The dream was designed by THEIR hand, how can something as astounding take beings? THEY are supposed to be overpowerful, to keep all together…”

“Maybe THEY aren’t as powerful as you thought.”

You snapped your head towards him, you wanted to tell how this reeked of blasphemy, but you could not because deep down, it was not. And it was terrifying. Everything that was reassuring, everything that you knew was crumbling under those nine little words. All this situation with ‘Death’ would not have happened under THEIR and the Oak family’s protection, all would have gone as planned by THEIR order. If only the universe was as simple as that.

You settled at the bar counter of Siobhan’s bar, she asked the both of you:

“Good day! It’s rare to see you here! And who is this?”

“I am under duty, Siobhan.”

“Fine, fine. Just tell me what drinks he wants.”

“Risky Sour?” you asked, knowing now his habits.

“I would like ‘A ticket to the boneyard,’ please” He answered.

“Feeling a little morbid today? Sure sir!”

You looked back at Aventurine in bewilderment; he only owed you a wink as he took off his glasses. Then he put his hat and coat on a stool next to him. You didn’t catch it right away but his other hand was texting the Nameless and bribing them. Then he watched as Siobhan created the drinks: mixing one liquid into another, shaking it; Finally, she poured it into a large glass, with a slice of lemon and orchid stirrer; she declared:

“Here is ‘A ticket to the boneyard,’ to the dead and the dying! May this sweet dream never come to an end!”

As the words echoed through your mind, they had a bittersweet taste on your tongue: previously, you would have dismissed Siobhan’s sarcasm yet in quite some time you understood their cynical judgment of the dream. This place had been featured and showed to the galaxy as the safest place, an oasis for any traveller along the cosmos yet it was not. This creature, something unto Death, was a proof of all the mysteries held behind it. You knew that THEY would be revived by the Oak Family, but you did not know how or when. Your job was only to follow your orders, THEIR words but were those words truly holy? Weren’t there a way to hide what was truly behind the ritual and the so-called paradise? Siobhan had rebelled against the Family to find her own path, you had only followed orders, what they called THEIR order. And in perspective, it was terrifying: what melded your life is a lie, a one so intoxicating and exquisite that you followed it until now.

Your ears perked up at the familiar song and voice. You raised your head to the TV in a corner. You did not understand what was on the screen: Robin was doing some dance practices on the screen with a few dancers and the coach. You frowned because she was not supposed to be here, and for a fraction of second you saw some red flash behind here. You finally understood: the Masked Fool had replaced her. Yet it did not seem right: why would the Oak Family accept a Fool to take place of the idol? How could they lie again to the public? You stared at the blinking red dot as you realised how easily you have fallen for each and every lie.

The gambler did not interact for the moment; you remained in the corner of his eye as he sipped on his drink. There was not any calculated malice, no, in a twisted way he understood you: to be wrapped in a system so tightly was painful. He had broken out of a system to go in another, yet he saw in you something he wanted to have so much: opportunity. In those few moments where you had showed yourself, he knew you were a good person, and he wanted to help but could not free you. So, he tried but in his own way:

“My dear bodyguard, I am the one with the morbid drink. Are you still stressed out by this mess?”

“Well, that was an easy read…”

“I’ll admit it, it’s easy to see how mortified you are. If you’d drink, I’d buy you one but since you don’t, I won’t force it.”

“Thank you, speaking of drink, why choose this one?”

“I thought that it was a little ironic, a zest on our situation.”

“I’m reconsidering all my life decisions and you’re taking a drink after you saw someone disappear…” You face-palmed.

“Why are you reconsidering your life choices?”

You turned to face him, surprised by his question. Another proof that he wasn’t as shallow as everyone, even himself, painted him to be. This time, there was not any mocking tone nor any teasing, he was all but sincere. The cards were on the table, he was leaned towards you, with not his sly smirk but a soft one. There was something almost disarming about this expression, one you did not usually see from the gambler. And so, you explained, tripping and falling on your words:

“I’ve been promised this place to be a paradise, an oasis where all could be happy. But it isn’t… I…I don’t know what to do… I’ve been lied to my whole life.”

“That explains why you seem more affected than other members of the Bloodhound family.”

“Yeah, I can’t understand what the truth is and what wasn’t. I’m scared to know if the dream I’ve followed all along was also a lie.”

The gambler nodded and ordered, to Siobhan’s dismay, a Soulglad. As the golden liquid poured with the orange bubbles, he asked:

“You’ve never asked what you were doing?”

“No because it was what seemed right, and everything fell into places the right way, but I don’t know what I truly did.”

Aventurine did not immediately respond to you; he took a sip of the Soulglad. The citrusy liquid bringing its wave of calmness and memories. He finally added:

“Now you have more power though.”

“What?”

“You’re able to see the cards and question their moves. Not being into blind belief is already a feat. You can now make your own moves.”

“To do what?”

“To realise your own dream, the one you thought they had. It’s rare to have that opportunity.”

There was something different in his tone, as if knowing of this situation even envying it. How could he not? He had been traded in one system to the other to try and finally be free, yet grief was the toughest to get out. Yet he did not know about getting out of grief, he was only angry at the universe and its system. So how could he not envy you, the one with the perfect opportunity to finally be free? There was also something close to nostalgy, perhaps a feeling indulged by Soulglad, but he closed his eyes:

“It’s strange how we grew up and are melded by those systems while before there were only dreams…”

“Childhood does sound nice, now that I think about it.”

“Running around aimlessly, dreaming about even greater times… Dreaming about just being there…”

As you noticed the repetitions in his words and his speech becoming sluggish, you realised that the Soulglad had started to take effect on him. The gambler had now hazy visions as he slurred:

“I had someone, can’t remember her name, a relative I think… Yeah, a relative… She was older than me, but she kept dreaming, dreaming about better times…I admired her for still dreaming… I wish I could have…”

But his thoughts got lost in the sea of memories. The sadness halted by the Soulglad and the alcohol. You helped him stay steady on his stool but continued the conversation:

“I wish I could’ve met her;”

“She would have loved you…”

You helped the gambler lean down to sleep on the bar counter. You had helped many like him to settle the effects of Soulglad, fools drowning themselves in memories to stir away regrets. Though, this time he seemed more approachable in this instant. There were no hard lines on his face, nor sly smirk only this peaceful energy. And added to this, from your angle, you could not see the scar on his neck. It was as if he had not been touched by his difficult past. So, you sat next to him like that, observing his serene expression as he drifted off in the dreams of memories. Even if it was one superficial induced by the golden drink, you let him feel at peace just this once. You did not know but this rare moment was one few where he could have memories come to him that did not echo screams and blood on his hands. The Soulglad had reclaimed the original purpose of dreams: to comfort him.

Yet this peace was broken by a male voice:

“Finally found him…”

“Doctor, it’s an honour to meet you.”

At first, he did not react. His eyes went from you to the gambler’s peaceful sleep, you could feel how behind the cold façade there was something else, but you could not really tell. Even if the doctor’s acting was not as on point as Aventurine’s, he had to play this bitter role: to act as revolted by the gambler as possible even if he felt the contrary towards him. Ratio would have preferred to be a force as his side, yet he had to play their strategy, to follow the Oak family as a mole. But you did not know, you were not yet aware of Aventurine’s modus operandi. And you clenched your teeth when the cold words escaped Ratio’s lips:

“Mr. Sunday wants to interrogate the gambler. He needs to stop his nap.”

The words were forced from Ratio’s mouth, as if he wanted to be a part of those mind games in Penacony. Even you had just been made aware of them. And this fragile peace that the Soulglad had given Aventurine would, to your displeasure, be one in a long time.

CHAPTER 4 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

tags : @sswrillya. @kakavshavasha @reddenedhands

You want to be tagged ? Tell me in the comments !

[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 4 : Even I might black out, you and me... [White Night]

<CHAPTER 3 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

TW : Robin's "death", mention of Aventurine's selfdeleting attempts

in game : discovery of Robin's "death", end of 2.0

characters present : Aventurine, "Robin",

characters mentioned : Sunday, Robin,

Word count : 2k163

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

Notes : I had to put Aventurine's whole investigation in this chapter in this chapter so it could fit in my storyline/plot. The timeline seemed also a little hard for me to follow, I tried to follow as much dialogue as possible.

The Dream was the most secure place in the universe, wasn’t it? You knew it while passing through the streets with your guest, greeting members of the Bloodhound family on the way. It earnt you a chuckle or two from your guest. There was something reassuring about knowing that you were also under your family’s, the Family’s protection, and THEIR gaze. Even though Penacony could seem like a land where the abundance of pleasure and unending parties could be heard, all would be done in safety. No pain, no fractures no discord. It was a golden dream all wished to be in. This way why it was a paradise.

Your guest took off his glasses to look out at the city skylight before asking:

“Why did Miss Robin not stay in Penacony? It seemed like a good stage, with the Iris family specialised in entertainment…”

 “Her reasons are personal, Mr. Aventurine, but if I had to guess she wanted to fly on her own and unite everyone under her songs.”

“This sounds like some marketing to my ears…” He quipped as he approached with that mischievous glint.

“This is only her words; she is someone as honest as she can be. She is a true preacher of THEIR voice.”

“To the point of hurting her voice, it seems…”

You didn’t reply by voice but a simple nod, and it was everything for him to understand. After all, the members of The Family weren’t used to lie, and you were no different. Robin’s voice wasn’t just hoarse, and you had confirmed it, with a simple nod. He inquired next:

“What about Mr. Sunday ?”

“He stayed to take part of the responsibility of Penacony. He felt a calling from THEM.”

Another lie but by omission, and you were oh so easily read. It was the shining eyes went elsewhere, as if to see what to fabricate, or the way your lips twitched as if afraid to speak. You were only confirming his suspicions behind the veil of the Family was something bigger at hand, he only had to put the pieces back together. Yet as if the conversation flowed naturally between you two, he asked:

“And you?”

You frowned, surprised by this interest in you. Though you knew he tried to take you out of your shell, this time it didn’t seem forced. It was unlike him, open. Was it because you were the only two on the rooftop? You couldn’t quite tell but unlike the times he caught your opinions out of your mouth, you responded honestly:

“I also had a calling of my own. Penacony also seemed like my own. I like being here, it is secure, it’s a home.”

Your eyes flicked on the sky almost reminiscent of THEIR gaze, and you added:

“But I can’t argue that I’m curious what’s out there. I’ve heard tales of Thalassa’s clear waters or Belobog’s snow. And what about you Aventurine? What sent you on working for the IPC and roaming the universe?”

“A gamble.”

“Of course, it would be a gamble with you.” You laughed aloud.

“Oh, but I’m serious, my friend, it was one roll of the dice that set me on this path. Well and maybe a few schemes here and there...” He winked with a flick of a coin.

You rolled your eyes, yet there was a hint of sincerity. This conversation didn’t feel orchestrated by his or THEIR hand, as if it were just there to take and embrace. He eyed the members of the Bloodhound family:

“And your task as the member of the great Bloodhound family, even though you’re personally assigned by the Oak, are there any risks and thrills?”

“To be honest, not much. The most we get is helping drunks come back from their Soulglad coma. It tends to bring back the past with all the memoria brewing in the air.”

“Oh really, huh? So, no chasse scenes on those rooftops nor interesting investigations?”

“No, no. My life, here, is secure. Penacony is my home, my nest, not a place for danger.”

“Sounds boring to me. You’re always under their eyes no matter what you do.”

“It isn’t as bad as you make it sound.”

“If you’re thinking about going elsewhere, that means you’re at least a little bored. Think about it: there’s always a stellaron roaming on each planet, factions competing in the war of the Aeons or if you prefer a little less cosmic, the Luminary wardance festival from the Xianzhou ? That’s a festival!”

“True, true… It does sound nice.”

Your train of thought was interrupted by a buzzing on your phone: Robin had arrived at the Hotel lounge. You gestured for Aventurine to follow you. As you surveyed along the way, you could feel something in the memoria had shifted:  Aventurine’s voice echoed differently, the colours shifted in a strange way as if drifting pigments in water, while corridors seemed unending. There were multiple possibilities for the disturbance in it so finding it immediately would be in vain. You sent your observation to a member of the Nightingale family, hoping they could work on it the fastest possible. Yet they responded that there weren’t interferences from their side. You could not add to the conversation since your guest was approaching Miss Robin.

And there it was. As fast as a blink. A shape of purple curling around the diva before stabbing hair. The memoria spilled on the floor, drips of tear-like liquid. Without a second, you made yourself a shield before Aventurine, but the creature only stared. The deep saturated eyes staring back as if able to cause nightmares to the insomniac. There was something uncanny, to the point of making your vision hazy. Until it had fully disappeared and the singer dissolved into soap bubbles.

You were about to ask how Aventurine was but got interrupted by other members of the Bloodhound family. They all rushed to see what had happened. You bit your lip as you wanted to ask how your guest was but couldn’t, so you reported back to Sunday and the nightingales. Conversations flowed left and right on what to do, to say before anyone could hear the catastrophe. You quickly caught what was happening, and it was easy to create their train of thoughts: Aventurine was the one who wanted to meet her, he was the one that had set up the meeting and he was the one who last saw her. The words didn’t feel right but here they were spoken prime suspect. And you would be his alibi, a compromising position if he had done anything to Robin, yet it could not you had seen him all day. The ripples of suspicions meddled with the ones of attachment you had developed.

He would have to be interrogated by Sunday but for now, you had to go back to the Reverie. There was a long pause during the walk. How could you speak? You had just saw the superstar Robin been evaporated? You didn’t even know if she was alive or dead. Was Death even possible in the dreamscape?

“You’re alright?” The gambler asked, looking at you beyond his glasses.

“Yes sir. I was thinking of what just happened.”

“Do you know what that thing was? Death?”

“That information are confidential, sir. I am not allowed to speak to you about it, especially with you being the prime suspect.”

“Welcome back to protocol, I guess…”

“Sir! This isn’t only a question about protocol or not! It is a life-or-death situation! Miss Robin is in an unknown situation!”

“Relax, friend. It seems I am clueless as you are. Besides, you saw me. I have always been under your watch, so I can’t be your prime suspect. Can I?”

You bit your lip before letting your thoughts slip up again. This wasn’t time for anymore chit-chat, but you wanted to tell him how you knew he wasn’t your suspect, how it all seemed off, how you had felt its presence before it arrived. You wanted to brainstorm with him, tell him the things that you knew about THEIR control and onto your theories about this thing. You blindly refused for your loyalty’s sake. Your guest excused himself to his room, probably to wind down.

You needed it too so went to the VIP lounge, and, to the barman’s disappointment, you ordered sparkling water. Siobhan teased you to argue that it was at best spiced water. Yet it was better than ordering tape, even worse at the bar. You wouldn’t understand what had happened in the laps of half an hour: the superstar had just dissolved into bubbles after being stabbed. It wasn’t possible, in the Dream all were safe, THEIR protection would ensure that. How? This simple word stopped you from drinking that next sip of water. How could a dead Aeon keep the entire dreamscape alive and well? And here it was, unknowingly, that simple opening that the gambler had made in your heart was enough to create doubt. You grumbled on your spot about this situation again and again.

Yet something you dreaded appeared on your watch: cease of activity between Aventurine’s pod and the dreamscape.

Without a word, you ran towards his room. Was it that creature that got him? Was it a simple malfunction between the memoria?

Another alert.

It wasn’t a bug, it was real. You bolted up the stairs, floor one, floor two, each one skipping your heartbeat as you finally arrived on the sixth.

Another alert.

You were almost maniacal as you went through the crowd screaming about security and danger. Erupted in the bedroom as you saw him in the dream pool, you pulled him out of it screaming:

“What are you doing ?!”

“Looks like you’ve been alerted by the security system, that’s—”

“That’s not my question! I have received three alerts on my watch! What have you been doing ?!”

“Come on, friend! I’m here!”

“Answer me Aventurine!”

“I was just testing out theorises about Death in the dreamscape.”

“Theories? You’ve been drowning yourself just to test something?”

“Well, how was I supposed to know if they were real?”

He raised his hand as if it were the most obvious thing to do. You let go of his costume; you did not catch if it was from the sheer shock or the absurdity of his statement. How could anyone go to this extreme? You yelled back:

“Don’t do that ever again!”

“Of course, of course, now that I have my answer.”

“No, Aventurine, don’t ever do that again. Even if you have theories, I want you to talk rather than… By the Harmonious Choir… Talk!”

“It was easier for this—”

“I don’t care about your theory! I care about you and your life!”

And there was a silence between you at this moment, as you both realised what you had just said and its implications. Aventurine tried to veil his confusion under his playful smirk, yet you could see that this had affected him: there was something deep and melancholic in his eyes, his tiredness barely showing itself. He stood up from the dream pool and simply sighed:

“Good friend, what an amicable collaboration.”

You were about to respond something back because communication was key in THEIR words to obtain resolution, yet his eyes said something else. For once, his eyes were more important than THEIRS. You wanted this sadness to drift away in the dream and if that meant not talking about this topic, so be it. You shifted in place before asking:

“What will be our next step?”

“Oh, so you want to follow my theories now?”

“I want to make sure you don’t risk yourself again, and if it means following your plans then I’ll do it.”

You followed him outside your room, unaware of what was ahead of his plans and what you swore to see. What you had experienced in mere minutes, you would ago in a long terrible agony so that all could see what he had deciphered. As you descended the stairs, he bluntly explained:

“I will lie to the Nameless.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“I will tell them that ‘Death’ is the Ranger’s doing.”

“But we don’t know yet if…”

“Truth isn’t important in this game, my dear, but how you use it. I have an ace, why not keep it?”

“Aventurine, it would be easier to collaborate with everyone than keep it to yourself.”

“The stronger is your hand, the more you defend it. I’ll teach you to play, dear.”

As if a grinning cat, he winked back at you through the glasses. There was something strange, almost thrilling to know that you weren’t entirely in THEIR hands anymore. You were now able to move on from those preaching and explore for yourself. Maybe there was more to THEIR dream, to this cage of dreams and memoria.

And what was only doubt will blossom in blasphemy.

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[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 3: The groove takes it over, we’ll wait and see [White Night]

<CHAPTER 2 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

TW : avgin racism, Aventurine's suggestive reputation (not detailed, only mentioned),

in game : Aventurine's interaction with Sparkle in 2.0

characters present : Aventurine,Sparkle

characters mentioned : Sunday, Trailblazer, Robin,

Word count : 2k17 (dialogue heavy)

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

Notes : Penacony's arc isn't clear about Aventurine's ethnicity being known (He talked about it to Sparkle and Ratio yet is surprised when Sunday asks if he is an Avgin). To elaborate on this issue, I'm taking the route of the MC having heard of Avgins but only suspicions about Aventurine.

The facade of Penacony was glittery but its depths held multiple secrets. Those were the types of rumours the Family tried to hide and so did you when talking to your guest. So, you tried to be the maestro on this conversation, but he didn’t let himself to played. When you avoided the possible counterfeits of luxury products, he delved deeper into its impact of the luxury industry and the materialism of modern society. When you played dumb about SoulGlad addiction and its negative effects on health, he used his wit to prove that you weren’t as innocent as you seemed. It was pleasant in a way that you hadn’t thought before: to go beyond the forbidden subjects and taste the thoughts of others, especially someone like him. The Family and THEIR order had always told you to distance yourself from his kind of character: hedonistic, egotistical, and vain. Yet there was something ironic with those rose-tinted glasses: he didn’t see the world through those but with a sharp interest, he didn’t talk about him only and how much money he made but his interest was towards people’s lives in Penacony. And when you thought about it, he never talked about himself. Even though some people had called him a peacock, he didn’t show off to you except in those moments about how he could buy an entire store for the adrenaline. Yet it didn’t seem sincere, it was like a joke between you two on who would win this back and forth. And it was one of those until you realised that, despite him arguing the contrary, he was guiding the way to follow another guest.

As matter of fact, you were following another VIP guest. As far as you could remember, your intel had told you that she was a Masked Fools from Taikiyan. In between choosing to be Aventurine’s guard or a Masked Fool’s, the choice was easily made: Masked Fools are only pursuing their own enjoyment, there is nothing Aha does that THEY accept. From the explosion of the Astral Express to transforming a worm into an Emanator, the Family couldn’t and wouldn’t ever condone THEIR actions. They would only help those that had been dealt with the aftermaths of THEIR actions. And now that you thought about it, you couldn’t understand why your dear guest had decided to follow her, you asked:

“Mr. Aventurine, I may have been noticed that we are following another guest.”

“That’s very observant of you.”

“Oh please. But I would like to know why?”

“Ah-ah-ah! A gambler reveals his cards after the game finished to earn his winnings.”

“Mister, I’m asking regarding the guest’s security, it is vital…”

“Always about security, relax. We’re just going to chat.”

“Last time you just chatted, it wasn’t a real amicable one if I may.”

“Touché, but I would like to know, is it really just protocol that makes you wonder?”

“My personal opinions and thoughts have nothing to do with my tasks at hand.”

“But your task is also to be the best host, and it means entertaining me. So please, indulge me.”

There was a moment where you rolled your eyes and tried to look around as if to find an escape route to this trap, but he didn’t back up. The piercing neon eyes still fixed on you with his smirk. You stumbled around finding any excuses or half-truths to tell. Besides, he would have probably known since he could notice lies. There was no need to lie anyway, talking about this would not undermine THEIR plans. You casually dropped:

“The task of following that guest doesn’t seem right with the plans you told to the Nameless.”

“Oh, so you’re curious about my plans, I see. You’re sharp for a bodyguard.”

“Every bodyguard needs to be sharp to be able to protect their guests. We need to think about any encounters with our guest, their reputation, their habits, we must even keep their schedules in mind.”

And yet again, you did not notice but this back and forth had once again helped him avoid the topic of his cunning plans. If only you knew, you could have informed Sunday of his suspicions about the Family’s loyalty to THEM. You continued those casual discussions until the Masked Fools deigned address the gambler. Their conversation was one you had accepted but couldn’t condone: the blond’s origin planet was of Avgin descent, and that meant coming with all its reputation. Avgins were the ones behind every rich family, every maestro for political acts, the true masterminds behind society so only they could govern. Well, that is what everybody thought. The Family had had their suspicions but now that it was confirmed, not by one but two persons, you could relay that information to Sunday. And you discreetly did so.

Though there was something unnerving about her talking down upon your guest, how he should be treated only based on their ethnicity. The blame on him was as always, a way to oppress the weak, something THEIR realm could erase so all could live in the piece under THEIR guise. Yet, what you were more surprised were Aventurine’s reaction, or more his lack of. His eyes opened and closed with the casual smirk, added with a praise of Golden Hour as if she weren’t insulting him and his lineage. His back was straight, if not almost laid back. He accepted even his dignity being used like a toy to the Masked Fool. You secretly hoped that this was a form of decoy or bait, yet it was never confirmed. No defensive response towards remarks such this, until you noticed his arm crossed. Behind the political talk and the casualness of the conversation, there was something simmering. You took out your phone and quickly reported ack to Sunday, yet again. He could use it to talk to the gambler. You focused on your report to explain what subjects were told, your guest’s reactions. Until he came back, hands in his pockets:

“Dearest bodyguard, let’s go back roaming about town. I have so many credits to spend.”

“Mr. Aventurine, would you like me to report about the Masked Fool using discriminatory language towards you?”

“Oh, go ahead, do as you please, even better if it can give you a promotion.”

As you wrote what you masked as disciplinary report, you noticed the gambler’s arm around your shoulder. This wasn’t something he did, he never initiated contact. He seemed also shorter when in contact with you, as if he had to reach to go over your shoulder. As you pieced the puzzle together, you moved away and glared:

“Who are you?”

“Oh, why so serious little lapdog?”

That’s when your guest glowed a faint pink before transforming back into the Masked Fool. She tilted her head to the right with a mischievous expression and mocked:

“The chicken-wing boy trained you well, dearest bodyguard. It usually takes at least an hour before people realise my little game.”

“My mind has been trained to not listen to the cunning and not be led astray from THEIR sight.”

“Yeah, yeah. As boring as him.”

“Where is Mr. Aventurine?”

“Don’t worry, he’s there.”

Before you could ask any more questions, she left and the real Aventurine quipped:

“Got yourself fooled?”

“Really funny, sir. Now that I have the real Aventurine, may I ask you if I need to draft a report about their discriminatory remarks regarding you?”

“Don’t fuss about it, it’s my charm.”

“Sir, the words she used were improper regarding your people and yourself.”

“So what? She likes to use me in such manner, so be it. Let her teeter on the edge of chaos, that’s her thrill.”

As he started to walk, you couldn’t follow him. This passivity towards being treated less than normal and almost acknowledging, even encouraging it, was beyond you. THEIR goal was to help the weak in a soft nest of peace and happiness yet here he was, delving deeper into discord and accepting to be hurt. It wasn’t something logical, any bird wouldn’t accept such violence they would fight back or at least flee. Yet the peacock had standed in front of the fox, as if the bird weren’t bothered by its presence. You decided to follow and question him further:

“Mr. Aventurine, she insulted your character and your identity.”

“I’ve told you: I have heard worse, and I will hear worse.”

“But it needs to be stopped.”

“If a gambler doesn’t spend his money during an extended period, he’ll compensate by doing a reckless move at a random moment. Only to feel that sweet thrill. So, no need to stop this.”

“And what about the rumours about your character?”

“What do you believe?”

And here he was again: leading the concerto and untwisting your tongue about your opinions. Yet this time, it didn’t seem as forced as before. It was probably because this conversation had started on the premise of your opinion being spoken aloud. You continued:

“Well, your clothing habits and requirements have spoken about you.”

“Huh? Is that so?”

“Yes, but I also think that some of them are exaggerated.”

“Like?”

“Like how people say you’re seductive with everyone: you haven’t initiated anything with my person.”

“I only give and take when the other does as well. An equivalent exchange between both parties involved.”

“And about the rumours about people going in and out of your hotel suites?”

“Oh, you really believe that?”

This time, he let out a genuine laugh as he said the last line. This naiveté of yours was something he had suspected, and it was as innocent as it was endearing. He took off his glasses to put them in his jacket’s pocket as you concluded:

“You don’t bring people to your bedroom?”

“Only those willing, dear, again equivalent exchange.”

“But those who have seen you with multiple—”

“A load of cash can help simulate a lot of things dear, and that is also part of the game. When there is someone that needs money, I take the right opportunity to make it look like another one has fallen to my charms. Yet again, why so interested in that part of my reputation?”

“Do not imply certain things sir!”

“I’m just asking…”

“It’s the part of your reputation that’s the most difficult to investigate. I have already noticed your reliance on game of chances and drinking but I couldn’t investigate about that.”

“Oh, so you’ve noted all of that down already. No secrets from you, huh? You’re too intelligent for your own good, has anyone told you that?”

“I have many tools that you’re unaware of.”

“Careful, with this intelligence of yours, you might end up being dragged into something you wouldn’t have otherwise.”

“I have enough intelligence to know sir. But do not worry, my intellect will only serve THEIR quest for harmony.”

“I thought their hymns dealt about not being prideful?”

“The peacock is talking about hymns of humility now?”

“But I acknowledge my vain nature. Speaking of hymns, would it be possible for you to contact the Family? I would like to have a conversation with Miss Robin. You see I haven’t had a conversation with her and since she is the other face of the Charmony festival, I do want to introduce myself to her as well.”

You took out your phone and managed to get a meeting between the two. Even though, you suspected that the gambler wasn’t fully honest behind this reasoning either, you only could discover his plans by following them. Yet what you hadn’t noticed were many, despite your intellect: the double meaning of his conversation with Sparkle but most of all, how he was surprised that you had cared about him being insulted. You hadn’t noticed the twitch in his smile as you asked to report the discrimination, neither did you hear that his laugh earlier was full of honesty. It was something he hadn’t let out in a long while, but you did make it happen. You had bought some warmth long forgotten.

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[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 2: No past and no future, that’s what I need [White Night]

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TW : alcohol, self-loathing

in game : First time roaming in Penacony, the first encounter between him and Black Swan (added it here to benefit the plot).

characters present : Aventurine, Black Swan,

characters mentioned : Siobhan, Sunday, Sparkle

Word count : 2k82

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

The familiar warmth enveloped your skin as you sank in the bath. Bubbles obstructed your vision as it became hazy, and you finally fell into the dream. The familiar feeling of “awakening” was one of nausea. You had done many backs and forth between both dream and reality, yet you always encountered dream sickness. Siobhan had teased you that it happened because of your insomnia. You took your belongings for your mission: from your coat to your connected watch; it would tell you in the dream where your target was and their vitals. A handy way to keep all guests safe and sound. Your immediate reflex was not to check your watch but to go to your guest’s room, all the guests were following the orders in Penacony. Yet after a few knocks at his room, you have discovered that your target might be an exception to the rule.

His words echoed in your mind as you hastily went to what sounded like the destination he most likely goes to: the VIP lounge. Yet among the various guests, you could not see him. The bartender indicated that he went to Anderson, and you rolled your eyes at the idea of a VIP guest going to a public bar. Anyone could go there and without a bodyguard or rather surveillance, anything could go wrong. You felt a brief relief once you saw the Stoneheart leaning against the bar, swirling a glass of whiskey. As you approached to sermon him about evading you, he retorted:

“Well, I thought good evening was the proper way of saluting an esteemed guest.”

“A—Sir, you are not the one supposed to tell me how to act on our grounds. To ensure your safety, I must know your every move. This rule is especially important inside the dreamscape.”

“But don’t you have your colleagues there to ensure everyone’s safety and wellbeing? In my book, it also means protecting the VIPS.”

“Yes sir, no disrespect to my colleagues but I was personally assigned to protect you. The Oak family selected me to—”

You stumbled upon your words as you saw the man smirk: in your fit of anger, you had inadvertently revealed that the Bloodhound family was not the one employing you but the Oak family. You had stepped away from your vow of secrecy. He quipped:

“Looks like I’m not the only one breeching protocol now.”

You rolled your eyes at the petty humour, but it only made his smile wider. He took another sip of his drink. You could still feel that he was still looking at you through his rose-tinted glasses but kept quiet, it was not your role to keep conversation. Only to observe and protect. Those were the missions indicated by Sunday, nothing more nothing less. Though your target had decided to continue the conversation:

“Anderson is a delightful place for a drink. Their risky sour is good.”

“The VIP lounge has a reputation for their bartending as well.”

“Still salty about me being here? Relax, my friend. Look at the ambiance around here, it is lively with people dealing with their problems, making negotiations.”

“The ambiance won’t resolve your wrongdoing sir.”

“Still Aventurine for you friend, though it is not that wrong to just wander around. The VIP lounge is also a place with a bar and people around. Beside you found me anyway so why so serious?”

 “Because those are rules and it is a risk to not follow them.”

“And life would be dull without bending them. Would you have come to this place if I had not followed your orders?”

“Aventurine, this is not about me visiting the Lounge. I am not meant to roam around the dreamscape but follow you.”

“So, looks like I made you discover a place you wouldn’t have visited otherwise, a win-win situation if you ask me.”

You grumbled something under your breath at his exclamation. Telling him wouldn’t change his attitude and you would have to be extra vigilant about him. A few minutes without your surveillance and he might discover some of the Oak’s family plans for THEIR future. Your thoughts you were interrupted by your target:

“Besides insisting that I should have been at the VIP lounge, you didn’t ask why I was here.”

“You talked about the ambiance?”

“The ambiance does make the party but what does make it? The drinks, the stakes but more so its guests.”

You could not ask more about his interest that he walked through the crowd. Anderson was a place of agitation during the Charmony festival. Many groups had this bar as the meeting point, others spent their first or last drink here to go through the dream sickness and some stayed here because it was the easiest bar to access. It was a place for fun and revelry; one you were not used to go to. The teachings of THEIR words insisted to not loose ourselves in the labyrinth of inhibition but drink THEIR lessons. Being not acquainted to moving through inhibited crowd had made it difficult to follow your target until you finally arrived at a calmer corner of the bar. There was not anyone until you saw some dust gently drifted as if lifted through from a velvet ribbon. The gambler took off his hat and glasses before addressing to what seemed like the void:

“Memokeeper, you have been agile into keeping your presence unknown.”

A second then two before the glowing dust resulted in a form of a woman at a table. Her hair flowed around her head with a veil of purple, the purple environments leaking into a humanoid form. It was if she was watercolour. Yet her smile and eyes were not as cold as the colours surrounding her. Her velvety smooth voice responded to the gambler:

“Hello Mr. Aventurine, how may I help you?”

“Memokeeper, I believe you were the one observing me. The lightcone technology of various IPC staff members has reacted to your presence.”

“It is true that I have been observing you and various guests in the dreamscape;”

You frowned at the announcement, but it made sense for a memetic entity to be able to do so. Dreams were their realm after all, and Memoria was melded by memokeepers. You wondered why the Dreammaster nor Sunday had put this guest under surveillance, but your task had hand spoke first:

“Miss, if I may, Penacony’s etiquette requires you to keep a visible form inside the dreamscape to ensure the security of our guests. We wouldn’t tolerate if memories were stolen.”

“Forgive me for this, I will stay in my corporal form as I move through the dreamscape but do not worry, I only receive the memories of those who come to me.”

“As always, they’re so uptight about the rules.” Aventurine commented.

This time you could not stop the glare at your guest, yet it amused him more as he shrugged and sat facing the memokeeper; You stayed standing next to him as if to prove your point. The gambler laid back in his seat:

“you’re following me and each guest for our memories; but I could give you more memories than you could ever dream on.”

The dusk-eyed woman tilted her head before asking.

“And what would that mean?”

“An equivalent exchange of sort. You would help me get a better hand in this game and I would give you some rare and well-sought-after memories. I only ask you to keep the Nameless under your wing for me, make them see another perspective of this dream before bringing them to me.”

There was another long silence as if there did not need for anymore words between them. The implications and vagueness of their words enough to keep the conversation going. Each outcome that you did not understand rolled between their gloved hands. You eyed the blond man as his right hand tapped on the table the music’s rhythm yet, his left hand was behind his back. You did not comment on this unusual posture because it was not your time, nor your task.

“I’ll accept this proposition” the Memokeeper concluded.

You were taken out of your reverie by the blond turning towards you:

“Friend, could you please stand a little further away? I would like some privacy with the Memokeeper.”

And begrudgingly you did, moving enough for the conversation to not be heard nor be read their lips. You only could see his left tightening behind his back, to the point of trembling and how this expression changed. You could not quite find the word to describe the emotions that appeared on his face as he finally opened his mouth.

Talk, that is what he did best. He was known for his silver tongue during speech, deals and bets yet his words were clumsy when he talked about the past; It was as if he tripped over the few memories, trying to desperately put them together. Yet they passed through his fingers like the golden sand of Sigonia. For a moment, there was only the void; then what came to mind were blurred faces and incomprehensible words: blessed failure discarded loser pointless coward murderer chosen-one selfish.

A voice came through:

“Thank you for your memories, Mr. Aventurine.”

A blink and before him was a card on the table with the dunes of Sigonia and the sky shedding tear like rain. He could not look at the characters in the card but stood up, thanked the memokeeper before walking straight towards the exit. His left hand still trembling. Yet again, there was this ache to ask, to delve deeper but the words died on your lips. Your mission keeping them escaping your lips. You turned back towards the memokeeper to address your farewells:

“May Xipe protect us.”

“May THEY protect us in life and dream.”

You could not question her the implications of her words because you had to follow your target to the next destination. As always, the lights of Golden Hour were bright with many advertisements: from the closest pizzeria, to the infamous Soulglad. All flashed with the enticing promise of everlasting happiness. A dream ordained by THEIR hands to keep all in this state of bliss. There was entertainment to forget the existence of boredom, food to forget starving existed and shops to never grasp onto the idea of poverty again. A place where tourist and locals could enjoy what THEY offered without looking beyond the golden bars. Following your task of tour guide, you asked:

“Where would you like to visit Mr. Aventurine?”

“You picked that up from the Memokeeper, now?”

“It follows your wish to be called Aventurine while still being polite.”

“Good, I like that.”

This time, there was not any malice in his words: he seemed, as paradoxical as it seemed for a poker player, genuine. His smile was soft and eyes tranquil like looking at a flower blooming. He added:

“Let’s walk through Golden Hour, I need to meet more of my friends along the way.”

You followed him along Golden hour, looking at the glittering display windows with the couture gowns. Even though the dress code was meant to be formal, you never understood this taste for the extravagant, it did not feel right. For it was through truth and sincerity that humanity could rise following THEIR path.

“You look like you’re about to vomit. You do not like your local couture?”

“It’s not that I don’t like it, it’s just that it isn’t for me.”

“That’s the same in my book. What don’t you like about it?”

“It’s a little flashy with too much glitter, gold and jewels.”

“So, you find it tacky, you can be honest with me. Even though I’m myself dressed in those flashy clothes you dislike, I won’t get offended.”

This time, it was not a glare that escaped but a small timid laugh. Something you had not let out in a long while and it felt good, like the rays of sunshine in the real golden hour. You shook your head:

“I didn’t mean to offend by saying I don’t like those outfits.”

“You are not offending me, I have heard way worse and I will hear worse.”

He stopped in his walk when he stopped afar another guest, dressed in red but what was truly remarkable about her was the mask on her head. You took a deep breath, knowing fully well that the next encounter would be clashing.

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tags : @sswrillya. @kakavshavasha, @reddenedhands

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[world-in-a-nook]

Chapter 1: "I want you to show me your fantasy" [White Night]

CHAPTER 1 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

TW : none

in game : all of the hotel scenes in 2.0

characters present : Sunday, Robin,Aventurine, Astral Express Crew, Dr.Ratio, Acheron

characters mentioned : Opal, Pearl, Sparkle

Word count : 2k100

Word of the author : Each chapter has its own added headcanons and details to add more "life" to the situation such as Aventurine's hat and glasses or the added NPCs. If you wish to be added to the tags, don't hesitate to tell me !

Everything was planned by THEIR symphony. Everything was to be ordered in place for the final concerto. And as such, every member of the Family had been given different orders. All things would fall into place according to the Dreammaster’s plan. Yours was to make sure the IPC would not interfere in the grand moment. As the head of the Oak family explained your task, you nodded in rhythm to his speech. That is what you have been taught: politeness, obedience and more than anything else, loyalty. Another sip of your sparkling water as you finally asked:

“So, who is this guest sir?”

“Our esteemed guest has been changed at the last minute. It was to be Mr. Opal, but we have been informed that it is now Mr. Aventurine.”

Another nod, no opinion to be said. The lot of the Ten Stonehearts was known: Opal or Aventurine, either would be a hassle to be around. Each with their own flaws and unique characteristics. You had secretly hoped it would have been a more docile individual like Pearl. Yet your task was quite easy compared to the one surveying the Galaxy Ranger or the Masked Fool. You had that assignment whoever it might be, and so it would be Aventurine.

You followed Sunday around the Reverie. The lights twinkled on the marble floors and the extravagant decorations. Your gaze followed the elegant clothing of the guests: from the swaying gowns to the tailored suits, everyone came to Penacony as if it was a gala. This dress code, even though not truly enacted as a rule, was one of the many ways to harmonise and all blend together. It was the same for Robin. The popstar had many options with her popularity, yet she wore the dashing white that clearly showed her relationship to Sunday. Had you been allowed, you would have told her about your admiration for her craft and her preachings. Yet you stood there, in the shadow, they were both used to the Bloodhound family protecting around and you were not different. Until she chose not to, and approached you:

“Hello, good evening, dear! I’m Robin, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I would like to thank you for your service in the Bloodhound family.”

“Thank you for serving the Family as well miss Robin, may Xipe protect you.”

Robin was about to continue the conversation but as planned, Sunday went back to talk more to her about the Charmony festival and its preparation. So you went back to your position, awaiting the scheduled time and the meeting with what would be your target.

This time, another erupted in the room, explaining agitation in the main hall by the Astral Express Crew and my target. With a reluctant sigh, Sunday stood up to go give discipline and stop the cacophony. Yet again, the fluttering popstar came along to bring some much-needed peace to her restless brother and the situation at hand.

Once arrived at the grand hall, you could notice how disorderly the place seemed. The crowd had gathered around the reception with whispers from left and right about the situation at hand: a simple check-in issue. You didn’t understand how something so simple and formal had degenerated in this capriccio to the point of this buzzing around. Sunday moved through the crowd, cutting through it with a sharp gait meanwhile Robin soared through it until you arrived at the troublemakers. The few that seemed to have created this chaos were a total of five. You immediately knew who your guest was.

You had done your research: Aventurine was a well-known individual in the high circles for his lifestyle. One that reeked of hedonism: gambling at casinos, spending time in bars and partaking in too much sexual intimacy. These were what you knew, for the moment, of him and it suited what you saw with the unrestrained use of jewellery, the scent of cologne blended with whiskey and the framed skin. All of this clearly clashed with the modest dress code. As if it was dismissived by one gloved and ringed hand. Those opinions would also be kept for yourself as it was your task to protect him. Sunday isolated you three and presented you to the gambler as a mean of protection and guidance and as planned he left for you both to better know each other. You immediately introduced yourself and gave a formal bow to which the gambler responded:

“I’ve informed the Family that I didn’t need for any sort of protection but since my cornerstone has been confiscated, I shall simply thank you. So, you’ll act as my tour guide for this adventure?”

“Indeed sir, as a member of the Bloodhound family, I will make your protection my personal mission.”

“If that’s so, care to bring me to the Nameless’ room? I need to pack a few things.”

You were the one to walk in front of him, as would any protector. Well, you tried though he kept walking beside you and he finally quipped:

“I prefer to have my conversations side by side if that’s okay with you.”

“Sir, I’m going to protect you. Conversation shouldn’t be the priority of my tasks.”

“Quit the formalities, no need to call me sir or mister. And I didn’t need any protection, so might as well enjoy the company. A tour guide is meant to talk, right?”

You firmly kept looking forward as not to roll your eyes. Though there was this annoyed expression that still appeared, to his delight. He let out a chuckle and tried to engage through diverse topics from your tastes to your opinion about the Family. To no avail, you kept quiet while walking. It was in the elevator that he took off his hat as he tried another way to approach you: talking about Penacony and the hotel, how it was previously a prison. That’s where you noticed the blond locks falling around his face and the curious mark on his neck. You couldn’t say anything about it since your task was to respond to his questions about the Reverie. Even though he made his questions to appear sometimes absurd, it made you talk. It was better than the silence he dreaded.

You both passed in the VIP lounge under the navigator’s gaze and an older gentleman, but once you arrived at the Nameless’ room you were stopped by your esteemed guest:

“Oh no need to be inside, I’ll just pack a couple things.”

“Sir—”

“No calling me sir, it’s Aventurine for you. It won’t be long. So please, go wait near the elevator, I’ll come back soon.”

You reluctantly sighed and walked to the designated area to stand there. After all, it would not be long, and the guests were the one to take seats on the different accommodations. The protection of this gentleman would be closer to negotiations than everything else it seemed. You could have told him that any other VIP guest could attack him in his room, especially since he had left the door wide open.

At this realisation, you decided to approach and be closer to the door but the Nameless had catched up to you both. The gambler and them were now chatting. The longer the conversation went, the more confused you were about this individual. Even though you were the one supposed to protect him, you saw his tone and quips as provocations. That was why you were tasked not only to protect him but also spy on him: behind the gem was the possibility of danger, intelligence interfering with the Dreammaster’s plan. After all, he was clearly more than what he seemed: he had guided the Nameless into revealing information with their own volition and tricked you into going to talk to the Nameless. Yet announcing his goal like he did seemed almost too blatant, too plain for someone like him. This type of individual had only self-serving goals, so you had to investigate that. Speaking of those, you catched the menacing tone of the gambler and approached the door to warn him but another stood up: the galaxy ranger. You stopped immediately as she had immediately defused the situation.

Once they gave each other their farewells, you rejoined your target and told him:

“This unprompted moment was a breech in protocol: the Family encourages each faction to be cordial with each other. Beside the fact that you’ve lied to me about your ongoings in this room, you have acted in a rude way si--!”

“So much for protocol. If I may, I didn’t lie to you per say, I’ve told you that I needed to pack a couple things which I did. The Nameless coming inside the room may just Lady Luck going my way. As for my conduct, it was outside of protocol, but didn’t you say conversations weren’t your priority?”

You bit your lip in annoyance as his widened in a knowing smirk. Your retort was getting ready when you finally noticed that he had taken off his rose-tinted sunglasses and what a remarkable sigh he had hiddent. Bright eyes with magenta and cyan pupils. It reminded you of THEIR gaze. Yet there was their own beauty to it: you didn’t know if it was the harmony of colours or maybe how they glowed slightly, but something had piqued your interest in them. Interest which was noticed by Aventurine as he put his glasses back on while declaring playfully:

“Now, let’s go visit the good doctor. I believe he is next to my room.”

Your opportunity to respond had been cut off by the gambler’s sharp wit and your inability to focus on your words. And a good businessman he was since he had taken that opportunity to lead you to his next goal. So, you followed in the elevator and when the door was closed, he added:

“I may be rude, but I know how to play fair and square, that’s why I’m honest when I talk.”

“Sincerity would be the best, si—Aventurine.”

“Sincerity doesn’t get you into the trade, tour guide.”

You frowned on those enigmatic words and let the silence of the elevator settle once again. This time, you decided to put yourself near the door, able to listen the conversation without seeming like a camera. From what you have gathered, the doctor was someone that seemed too intelligent to be part of any occurring faction yet too interested in pedagogy to be part of the Genius Society. That was maybe why he was refused inside it. From the conversation, you heard multiple valuable information about your target: his past as a slave confirmed but also his limbo status between life and death, so that was probably his incentive. You could note the distaste between the two: one far too light about the situation and the other too serious. Even though, they were colleagues they really seemed to clash. That would be an essential information to tell Sunday. Yet there was something in this conversation, you did not know what, but something was at odd in peculiar in the doctor’s tone in “I didn’t mean to offend”. It clashed with the earlier cold words. The gambler also noted that when Dr. Ratio had escaped the room.

You finally decided to enter the room after a few minutes. You could see some bags left carelessly here and there with the newspaper. With the echoing radio music blended the gambler’s cologne and the scent of dream syrup. You looked back at the gambler before he raised his hand with the Reverie’s brochure:

“No need to tell me all about the protocol in going to the dreamscape, already read it.”

“Thank you for doing so, si—”

“Aventurine, and no need to thank me dear guide. I had to, so you can forgive my earlier rudeness.”

“That’s not how forgiveness works.”

“Forgiveness isn’t the word than. What would make me forgiven from my sins? A drink?”

You noted the sarcasm and the offer but brushed it off with protocol:

“My guest room is next to yours; I’ll join you back at your room.”

“And I’ll be waiting for you at the lounge with two drinks!”

“Sir… Why are you being so difficult?”

“Because it brings your opinions out.”

You stopped for a moment and almost swore for how easily he was riling you. You did not say anything but exited the room to go to yours. This Charmony festival has surely been one you would remember. And you had yet to truly know what would happen.

CHAPTER 1 MAIN MENU NEXT CHAPTER >

tags : @sswrillya. @kakavshavasha, @reddenedhands

You want to be tagged ? Tell me in the comments !

[world-in-a-nook]

White Night

WHAT'S HAPPENING ?

The Charmony festival is usually the biggest moment of the year for Penacony but this year, with all the factions coming, it would be one like none other. You are used to the people coming to Penacony, going left and right to do some expensive shopping or drink dream syrup. Afterall that's what it is being in the Bloodhound Family. Though what you weren't used to do is taking care of a VIP, being their bodyguard but also surveying them. Unlike the other bodyguards, you were also assigned to spy on the guest and make sure they didn't interfer with the festival. You thought it would be an easy game. Yet you hadn't quite met the man that would bring you out of your comfort zone.

NOTES

There is no defined schedule for this fan-fiction. Though I won't start any new without finishing this one.

This fan-fiction is intended as gn!reader and the reader will be referred as THEY/THEM. They will be the Aventurine's bodyguard and a spy.

This fanfiction follows the duration of the penacony main storyline with additional scenes with Aventurine.

The self-insert/main character is supposed to have the same kind of indoctrination Sunday had and the slow burn romance will help them to open up to a new self.

If you desire to be on a taglist, don't hesitate to comment on either this post or on the chapters.

Even though english isn't my main language, I hope to do my best.

STATS

word count : 12k03

art by: @kkkkizumi

themes : drama, romance, religion, family,

TW : endoctrination, mind control, slavery, survivor's guilt, violence,

status : working on it...

last edited : 28/09/2025

Chapter 1: I want you to show me your fantasy

Chapter 2: No past and no future, that’s what I need

Chapter 3: The groove takes it over, we’ll wait and see

Chapter 4: Even I might blank out, you and me

Chapter 5: I thought that dream could light our way

Chapter 6: Just be my saviour and take me away

Chapter 7: Take me away

Chapter 8: Tick and tock once more, you're hosting a magic show I cannot escape

Chapter 9: There’s nothing else left for me to do, going to the other side !

Chapter 10: I don’t wanna be alone tonight

Chapter 11: Oh, lead me with your altered sign

Chapter 12: There’s no one else left for me to lose

Chapter 13: Heading to the other side

Chapter 14: You take me higher, take me away

Chapter 15: Just be my saviour

Chapter 16: Take me away

Chapter 17: I don’t wanna be alone tonight

Chapter 18: Oh, bring me to the other side

Chapter 19: There’s no one left for me to lose

Chapter 20: Going to the other side,

Chapter 21: I don’t wanna be alone tonight

Chapter 22: I’ll bring you to my best disguise

Chapter 23: ‘Cause I don’t need to know the truth

Chapter 24: Let me rave forever in your lies

[world-in-a-nook]

Fic idea : White Night ?

Kinda had the idea of writing an Aventurine x gn!reader fic with the reader as a bodyguard/spy sent by the Family. I would make each chapter according to one lyric of white night.

Example :

Chapter 1 : I want you to show me your fantasy

Chapter 2 : No past and no future, that's what I need.

Chapter 3 : The grooves takes it all, we'll wait and see

What do you think ?

Yes, short version (2.0 trailer)

Yes, long version (full version)

Not my thing !

Voting ended onMay 6, 2025

[world-in-a-nook]

In preparation for a fic (One-shot or two-shot, depends on your enjoyment)

Where do you headcanon Aventurine's casino (if he had one) ?

Pier Point

Penacony

Another planet

Voting ended onMar 19, 2025

[world-in-a-nook]

It is going to be a gn!reader x Aventurine fic with them meeting in Aventurine's casino. Maybe some back and forth with a poker game (might need to research how to play poker for that).

If you want to get tagged, ask me in the comments ;)

[world-in-a-nook]

In preparation for a fic (One-shot or two-shot, depends on your enjoyment)

Where do you headcanon Aventurine's casino (if he had one) ?

Pier Point

Penacony

Another planet

Voting ended onMar 19, 2025

[world-in-a-nook]

"Where your Goddess can't reach..."

characters : Aventurine x Sunday relationship : Sunday's pining for Aventurine art : @willdrest and @nai_pizx (edited) synopsis : Sunday's thoughts about Aventurine and how his eyes may relate to the Order from his meeting to Penacony's departure warnings : religious theme, suggestive, ooc ?, alcohol mentioned, saviour complex, wc : 2k071 nda : I added some details during their first meetings for more internal thoughts. Hope you like it ! Had fun writing this ! @alicerosejane (since you liked my previous sunturine post, I take the liberty of taging you on this one).

People had warned Sunday about this situation; he was prepared for the IPC but not prepared for him. He had prepared everything to create the perfect dream, a true haven, as it was in the beginning and ever would. His nightingales perused through the Reverie, watching each soul to be saved from the damned. Meanwhile he kept talking to his sister. He cared for her, so much so that he had to keep them in this nest, away from harm.

His conversation was interrupted by his nightingales signalling conflict, a chaos in this perfectly organized melody. So, he arranged with his sister to go at the lobby to calm down any conflict. That’s when he saw the Astral Express, from the red-headed navigator to the grey-headed troublemaker but his attention was diverted by a suave tone complimenting his appearance. He frowned as he saw the gilded coat, the ostentatious jewellery and the bright colours. He had known the invite to the IPC had been sent to the Stonehearts, but he didn’t expect such a character. From the sly compliments to the playful tone, paired with the controlled body language, it was clear that this man would be a troublemaker, a serpent in his garden.

As the blond man followed him into the elevator, Sunday could catch a hint of his cologne but also his facial features: golden flowing locks, skin shimmering like gold, thin lips. The debt collector hadn’t had the courtesy of yet taking off his glasses nor his hat. Though impolite, Sunday didn’t say a thing as it wouldn’t be the best move to start the conversation. He was about to do so when the gambler asked:

“Mr. Sunday, is it?”

“Yes, sir. May I have your name?”

“I am Aventurine, one of the Stonehearts sent by Diamond. Would it be possible to transfer my room somewhere else and give it to the Nameless?”

Sunday hesitated as it would possibly cause a havoc in the staff, the man’s belonging had to be moved, reservation transferred. He was interrupted by the gambler’s suave tone, and a closing of the distance:

“Mr. Sunday, it isn’t for my own sake but for the Nameless to be together. So, they could feel their own little family as united on the same floor.”

The head of the Oak Family didn’t miss the pun and nodded:

“I shall do as such then. Thank you for thinking of the Nameless.”

“Oh no need to thank me, I am just accustoming myself to the Family’s beliefs.”

He couldn’t quite catch if there was any sarcasm in that tone. The gambler’s words weren’t as honest as his, they were veiled in the lustrous fabric of half-truths. Someone as him, so skilled in the art of deceit and haughty, would only bring conflict in his dream. It made sense for the Stonehearts to send someone like that, to distract him with the honeyed words, the sweet cologne and the skin framed in gold. His eyes went the opposition direction, and his focus on stopping any pink appearing on his cheeks.

The elevator dinged as it opened to another floor, welcoming the two gentlemen into one of the top floors. As Sunday opened the door to Aventurine, he couldn’t refrain themselves from following the gambler’s silhouette, the graceful movement of his legs to the gentle sway of his hips. His guest went to look at the view outside as one hand finally took off the pink-tinted sunglasses and hat, finally being polite. One member of the Family, a bartender asked:

“Dear guest, what would you like to drink?”

“A whiskey on the rocks, friend. What about you Mr Sunday?”

At that moment, the blond finally revealed his eyes to the dreamer and what a sight. He couldn’t help his from widening in recognition. The same shade of blue and purples, but brighter as if not dimmed by humanity’s pride. It was an exact copy of THEIR gaze. He shook his head and quickly answered:

“I’m sorry Mr. Aventurine but I don’t drink any alcohol.”

“Is that so? A shame then… Drinking alone…Would you not want to join me as a welcome gift?”

“No, no. I’m sorry sir.”

Sunday couldn’t contain the slight chuckle at the teasing as he sat down. Though his thoughts were always in perfect order and calculated, it wasn’t the case anymore. He couldn’t understand how someone with THEIR gaze seemed such an agent of chaos and strife, someone who could tempt so easily into depravity. He quickly grabbed the glass of sparkling water he was served, taking a gulp before finally being able to cross those eyes.

He had to initiate the conversation, the formal greetings and orchestrated symphony yet his mind was in a capriccio. He seemed to lose his thoughts in the heady cologne and for a moment he stared at the man’s lip.

“I’ve been told that Penacony was a land of dreams, but I didn’t expect even its leader to dream in reality. Is it some kind of advanced technology?” Quipped the gambler.

Sunday shook his head yet again and mumbled a half-truth:

“I apologize, Mr. Aventurine. The charmony festival has been quite the daunting task and you are far from the first guest I’ve welcomed.”

“Is that so?” Aventurine hummed playfully, raising his eyebrows.

Sunday bit his lip as he knew the look on the gambler’s face: he couldn’t lie to the one because it was the Stoneheart’s native tongue. As if a child caught, his eyes looked away but landed on the soft skin of Aventurine’s chest. Maybe it would be as soft as it looked, like some kind of silk. He wondered if his body was as symmetrical as those hypnotising eyes. Sunday scolded himself for lying and now thinking of his guest’s skin. He cleared his throat and leaned back in his seat, trying to put any form of distance for the conversation’s sake, and his own. He wasn’t the one drinking yet felt as if intoxicated by the dream syrup.

The conversation followed the scrupulous music sheet until the blond would add here and there his own notes, small transgressions into the greater plan Sunday had created. And yet it felt so liberating, to peer behind the curtain, kiss the forbidden and swallow the once hated fruit. When the gambler added his quips and tricks, Sunday couldn’t help himself but fall. It wasn’t disorderly but something real, as if his eyes opened to a new possibility. He was tempted to go further into the depths of this new blessed land, to feel the tender embrace, the locks of blonde hair in his grasp and the soft skin onto his.

Yet THEIR path was created for him to follow. His teachings had been an armour to face the tempting schemes. So, he swallowed his desired, focusing on the plan of a blessed land afar. Of course, he could tolerate the blond in the menagerie. All would be welcomed in his land, all to entertain this peaceful dream. He had been invited after all, yet Sunday didn’t know Aventurine was crafty than all his guests.

And when the parting came, the head of the Oak Family couldn’t help but feel some kind of void. The gentle hum of warmth had disappeared from the room. Only the blend of the cologne remained with the hint of musk, citrus, pepper and the whiskey he had nearly finished. Sunday took the cool glass and swirled gently the amber liquid. What if he took a sip? To only discover its taste? What did this man like in this so dangerous drink? His lips brushed off the cool glass, as if expecting the gambler’s. Yet pulled away and shook in head in disbelief of his own actions.

Sunday gave the drink away and moved towards his office in a hasty pace. Now wasn’t the time to be tempted by the sensuous words. The gambler was only sent by the serpent to make him fall in the dangerous sin of chaos.

And he stopped in his walk, now realizing why THEY had put THEIR reflections in the gambler’s gaze: he had to save the poor soul who grieved for his world. Those tender eyes weren’t meant to deceive him but a star to guide towards the greatest Salvation. The gambler was only lost where THEY couldn’t reach.  

And yet he quickly realized how the sacred relics, these precious eyes, had made him hope. He had been too late to realize how he had been led astray, and it was only when his sister had been killed that his eyes had been open. If only the blessed angel hadn’t been the martyr for his epiphany, then would he manage to forgive.

And he couldn’t. His eyes met the tempter once more and he wanted him only to repent for his crime. Confessing wouldn’t be enough; he had to bend the knee so that Sunday could truly see THEIR gaze into the sinner. Kneeling wouldn’t be enough; he had to taste the divine seed to truly find salvation. And if it meant purging his blessed land from any form of temptation, so be it. As he ensnared the tempter, he could only see what truly lied behind the truth behind those sensuous words: a poor soul in need for Salvation. He would offer it to see the Evil fall against THEM, to adorn the once-sinner into a saint with blessed pearls around his neck.

Though what he hadn’t expect was how he had been deceived. He had hoped that THEIR power would overcome the sinful words, yet he had been truly led not by THEIR music but by the siren’s call, the sin of anger and pride. Only did he continue to delve into deeper and truly show that the dream had to endure.

But he couldn’t, his quest had been rooted into the selfish desires of power unfit to him. He had fallen into the hands of benefactors so low that he had been chained facing the Devil itself. Yet he was not the one paying the price but his sister. The one he had so desperately tried to protect from harm had given him freedom btu they felt so wrong in the glossy lips of another serpent. Until he heard

“Life is too short to miss onto golden opportunities.”

He immediately knew those weren’t words of his sister, nor from the patient reaper but from that man. Sunday let those echo in his mind, he could picture them from Aventine’s lips with the sly smile. Had he been saying this while drinking some whiskey or another Soulglad? It wasn’t important but those words were another temptation. And now that he was given new wings, ones enabling him to finally taste the world, he accepted the man’s words.

He would embark starward, tread the man’s word not as fearful as taking an interest in temptation but a way to regain his light. His eyes had been open not by following the distant light nor listening to the sacred choir but by his failure and giving into temptation. So, he would follow this piece of advice, not to advert away from his mission, nor to follow the sinner’s will but to understand what led astray souls, to recover from his fall and once again become radiant.

As he embarked on the train, looked at the planets and cosmos afar, he could only ask if he would meet him again and what would he do. Would he stay the meticulous maestro? The saviour that pitied onto the glimpse of corrupted soul? Or would he shed his armour and open his soul to Life and all it had to offer? He had followed other words in hope to save others without questioning his teachings and yet Aventurine did start this fall. He had beckoned him to fall so that his sister would gently help him change and grow new wings. He was scared, confused but also fascinated.

So, he hopes that the next time he would meet him, either be it a clash or an embrace, that he would truly see behind the veil, behind what he had considered once sinful. So, he delved in and took a sip of whiskey in the Astral Express, wanting to understand the burn from the alcohol but also the one melting his soul and burning in his heart.

[world-in-a-nook]

Prediction : the tragedy of Amorpheus

Welcome one and all to my theory crafting around the next HSR planet !

For this, we will use Black Swan's lines about Amphoreus and try to analyse and probably theorize on what Amphoreus' story will be about.

I hope that you pardon my english, it isn't my first language.

I- The story of the planet II-The three paths

I- The story of the planet

A- The state of the planet

First of all, we have all the flags abount an antiquity inspired planet : the name of the achievement, the planet's name and so on.

We also know that the planet is only accessible through "the light from the mirror of the Garden of Recollection" and that Akivilli never reached Amphoreus.

So here is my theory : we are going to use the Graden of Recollection's miror to go back in time to when Amphoreus existed/was in better shape.

The keywords from Black Swan are "reached" and that it "only" possible through the Garden of Recollection. We know that the Garden's task is to gather memories to make sure that the universe is remembered after the Destruction. We also know that their members can "freely traverse between worlds, unconstrained by physical limits." (Data bank ; Factions)

We have seen that with Black Swan and the dreamscape : she can freely go from the dreamscape to reality. So that means that they aren't affected by space. But what if they aren't affected by Time either ? Then, only people unaffected by time from the Garden of Recollection could access Amphoreus, and such Akivilli would have never reached Amphoreus.

This would also explain why the Astral Express would never need fuel after that : it would make it a timeless machine, that goes beyond time and space, a paradox. In a more darker turn of events, it could also be the planet's destruction that fuels the Astral Express.

B- The plot

Since the planet must be either destroyed or in a very catastrophic way. I would imagine the story based on the tragedy : the Astral Express will tell the people of Amphoreus that their planet is destroyed, everyone will try so that it doesn't happen but everything has already happened and it will end up destroyed. This mixed in with a "Fall of Rome" kind of context.

Why am I thinking so ?

First, Rome is known for its political history being a mess.

Rome and Ancient Greece are known for their tragedies. Those have usually prophecies that are trying to be escaped but ended up happening anyway. And by the Astral Express coming from the future, they would be the ideal prophetic role.

The japanese name for Amphoreus is Omphalos. And Delphi's was known to be the center of the world, according to the greeks. Delphi is well known for its oracles.

"Eternal Land" isn't used to be literal. Black Swan is a Memokeeper and as such believes that all "world will eventually perish, but they can live on in another way — through Remembrance." (Databank ; factions). And such, Black Swan would be basically using some dramatic irony (mostly used in tragedies) to mock Amphoreus' people. It is how we view Rome's Fall : there were the signs that Rome would fall, yet nobody could stop it.

The planet's destruction would be a political crisis from the three paths (a word of them ahead) with a stellaron at play. My theory would be that one of the paths would want to exploit the stellaron for power linked with the hybris theme (the theme that men always try to be as powerful as gods but end up punished). We could also link it to Cesar's deification signaled by a comet.

Post Scriptum : If the Astral Express aren't the one announcing the planet's destruction, we could have an apparition of the Omen Vanguards, Terminus' followers (since they "They are dedicated to drawing prophecies from Terminus's obscure words.").

II- The three paths

"Human behavior flows from three main sources : desire, emotion and knowledge" - Plato

Erudition - Mourning Actors- Enigmata

Erudition :

For the fact that Ancient Greece had an immense impact on today's intellectual (look at Dr.Ratio's design).

The Genius Society, Nous' followers, are already known to be quite prideful so it would made sense for the hybris theme.

We don't know Nous' creation and ascension to aeonhood. So we could have Nous' followers in that point in time.

"Knowledge comes at the price of suffering." (Fu Xian voiceline Chat : Third Eye) and so, following my idea, it would be the knowledge that the planet will end up destroyed/dead that makes the Trailblazer and the Astral Express suffer.

We need another path for the trailblazer

Mourning Actors :

Their performances are akin to greek tragedies

Like Nous, we do not know when Aha arose to aeonhood.

Despite doing greek tragedies, their philosophy is closer to Pascal's (“Distraction is the only thing that consoles us for miseries and yet it is itself the greatest of our miseries.” ; replace Distraction with Elation and you have it.). And Pascal also has some quotes about truth. I wouldn't be surprise if we see Mourning Actors get inspiration in Amorpheus.

Enigmata :

Purely out of opposition to Erudition, first and formost.

The romans were well-known to copy the greeks (even in their mythology) yet hate them. So Enigmata being opposite to Nous would fit the bill but also Rome could be replaces with Enigmata : taking history and changing it.

There is the sentence of erasing someone from History known in ancient history and it would fit the Enigmata pretty well.

Enigmata has been hinted through Gallagher in Penacony and Hoyo doesn't show us something just for the sack of it.

Enigmata could be seen as an easy antagonist for the arc. (And if we follow my idea, Nous' followers would be the one creating their demise)

Side note : Beauty is a path that I have seen mentioned in theories and could be (since Aeneas, the founder of Rome, is seen as the son of Aphrodite, goddess of love ). Though I have to say that it wouldn't fit with the idea of "balance" because it doesn't have a counterpoint.

Thank you for reading my messy theory ! Have a wonderful day/night ! (It is 2AM when I finish writing this).

[world-in-a-nook]

Since the 3.0 livestream has proceeded, we have new trailers and informations regarding Amphoreus.

A few of my drabble theories are :

Mem, the creature following TB, is Elysia/Cyrene (0:41 to 0:50 of the 'Nameless Faces') : When Mem disappears, the girl with pink hair is appearing and her sleeves are identical to Elysia shown in the "Golden Epic")

The stellaron is either the coreflames or in the mountain with the Titan. And by gathering all of coreflames, Phainon will create the stellaron that will blow up the planet : 'Miracle of Genesis' with Genesis evoking the start of all things which started with a big-bang and is in a place looking like the cosmos (big-bang that would destroy Amorpheus before making it back again at the start).

The masked figure at 0:10 and 0:57 of "Nameless Faces" is mostly likely the antagonist of this patch and most likely the one with the flame in 'Gold Epic'.

My more doubted theories

Anaxa might be an Emanator or sort of Emanator of Erudition ( or Finality ?) from the "Golden Epic" is said to have "enough knowledge to fool Fate". What would be Foolish in an Apocalypse ? To not stop it, and as such is seen as a paria (0:33 of "Nameless Faces"). The eyepatch with the symbol of "eye" could could be a nod to Odin who sacrificed his eye for wisdom. But he could be the figure of a prophet.

If we are siding with the ones trying to stop the prophecy (and thus being foolish), we are indicated with Aglae possessing a golden apple (in Greek mythology, the symbol of Eris goddess of discord) and she has the Coreflame of Romance (nodding to Aphordite, the one causing, because of Eris, the Trojan War).

If my theory about Phainon being the hero that would try to save but will destroy the world is true, then it is why the gold image on his torso reminds everyone of Nanook (and not him being Nanook, Nanook has still physical features and apart from the white hair doesn't look like Phainon and mostly comes from Adlivum).

The two paths are revealed to be Remembrance (it was a given, my bad for not obviously saying it in my previous path) and Erudition. I am still convinced that the third will be Enigmata because :

of the etymology and Black Swan saying that the Path are in the balance. The only one that could balance Erudition is Mythus.

The two paths are about the mind and knowledge and Enigmata would be the best thematically.

The Titans seemed to be renamed and have qualities of the Aeons: Kephale for Nous, Oronyx for Terminus and Zagreus for Aha and so on. Soemthing a Riddler might do to confuse others.

The "Do you really not know or are you pretending to not know ?" is a question that could be asked to a Mythus follower since they are making sure to blur History.

In greek tragedies, the heroes are aware of the prophecies but even if they know it they can make it happen. Take Oedipus rex for example, Oedupus kills unknowingly his father and marries his mother. So in a world where they know what is happening, which is the best Aeon to confuse others and make the prophecy happen ? Mythus.

The Titans became mad. Madness is when the mind isn't rational, going again well with the idea of Mythus confusing.

The importance of knowledge not being accessible with all the areas related to it fell to the black tide. The thematic of light being knowledge and darkness being ignorance also.

Literally, the Aeon is named 'Mythus' (as in Myth + us from latin). I mean... It's starting to get obvious.

[world-in-a-nook]

A call for warmth...

characters : Aventurine x gn/reader relationship : established relationship art : @miikanar (edited) synopsis : Aventurine calls you after a day on a buisness trip, he misses you deeply warnings : hurt/comfort, self-loathing, identity crisis, petnames (my love, my dear,honey), bantering wc : 1k60 nda : not my native language

It was one of those nights for you both: one away at home, the other on the work trip. Since you had gotten into a relationship with Aventurine, you knew it would mostly be long distanced. You never minded. After all, technology helped you cope, and he wasn’t the type to ignore your texts or calls. Speaking of which, while you were working, a notification appearing “Incoming call from My darling. Answer?”. You excused yourself to your colleagues and went outside, leaning on the wall before answering:

“Hello darling!”

A second, then two. You frown because he isn’t always that silent. Finally, he spoke in a slurred fashion that told you he was probably drunk:

“Good evening my love. How are you?”

“I’m good Aventurine. And you? I can hear that you’ve drank…”

“Is it that obvious?” The slight tease and hint of smile reassured you slightly.

“Yes, my love. You should go to bed. Isn’t it late on Salsotto?”

You could hear his steps on the carpeted floor as he whined on the other side:

“But I wanted to talk to you! And my goodnight kiss! And my hug!”

You can’t refrain a chuckle as you slowly sat on the floor while responding:

“But we can’t, my dear. At least not for now… You’re coming home soon, don’t worry it will be alright…”

There was another moment of silence. This time you could hear him open a door and the distant city sound. He had probably gone on the balcony of his hotel room. It was part of his night routine, teasing about how you were both looking at each other from afar. You were about to scold him again and insist he should go to bed, but he spoke first:

“I miss you…”

“I miss you too my love…”

“No, no I miss you. I miss your scent, your embrace, the twinkle in your eye. I feel so strong when I’m with you, like…like I could make the biggest bets…”

“But you’re strong my dear.”

“No, I’m not.”

You frowned and unconsciously leaned forward as if trying to protest while facing him but he insisted:

“I’m not strong. I’m just a manipulator who tricked you into loving me. I’m just a lucky bastard who can’t live a normal life without being scared.”

“It’s normal to be scared Kaka—”

“Don’t call me that. Please, don’t…”

You opened your mouth to say something, yet the silence crept between you. You had known his name randomly a few years ago: when he had put offerings for Gaithra Tricolps on the chimenea’s mantle and explained it was for the day of Kakava. Though you already knew that unconsciously, it was also a gift for his family. A quick sentence on how it was linked to his name, and he went back to his playful safe, trying to evade your questions by announcing one of his many purchases. So you too, you randomly called him Kakavasha. It was a pretty name, it rolled off the tongue. And Aventurine didn’t mind, in fact it sounded comforting, a warmth of intimacy and trust from those four syllables.

Yet today, he didn’t want to hear it. You didn’t know how he didn’t want to associate with this name, with his people, with this loneliness. So you tried again but this time with another :

“Aventurine I—”

“I’m not Aventurine ! Aventurine is just-… just-…It’s just a façade, a farce!”

Aventurine of stratagems, the stone of the lucky ones. Was he even lucky? He had lost everything just to attract wealth. He was a lucky charm yet a curse for those who dared to touch, even approach him. And yet here you were, on the other side of the phone, listening to his nonsense and blurry words. At least tonight, you didn’t have to smell the blend of alcohol and his cologne, nor did you have to help him undress and fully lay in bed. You were away from him, away from his supposed luck, from his cursed wealth. It was better for you that way. But was it ?

“My love?” your voice came through the fog of emotions

At the two words, his heart fluttered with joy, and he weakly answered:

“Yes honey, I’m here…I’m-I’m still on the line…”

The words felt comforting yet sour, as if he wasn’t allowed to call you this. Someone else should take care fo you, hug you and make you feel happy. He quickly uttered:

“I’m sorry for disturbing you, honey. You must be working. I-I need to go to bed…”

“Honey, I’m alright. Please listen to me. As I said, everything will be alright. You’ll be home soon.”

He swallowed a tear and wobbled until he fell on his bed, barely taking off his designer shoes. He repeated:

“I miss you love… I miss you so much…”

“I know, I know. And you’ll be home soon. I’m not the only one who misses you, you know. I’ll have to battle with the kitties for your attention.”

He let out a chuckle before responding:

“Don’t worry, this time, you’ll be the first to have my kiss.”

“Otherwise, I won’t give you any pancakes!”

“Oh, come on! The fly is gonna be super long and I’ve missed you!”

“Then I’ll need my kiss and to be the first one! Don’t go rushing to the kitties!”

“Fine, fine. You’re a tough negotiator, you know?”

You exchanged another hearty laugh as the conversation continued. A long talk, talking about your shared life, present and future. Even if his mind had been tarnished by his insecurities, you had managed to comfort him, as always and you would continue to do so.

It’s when you asked him a question that you realised the silence on the other line of the phone. After a few seconds, you could hear his breathing slow and steady. You couldn’t stop the soft smile appearing as you realised, he had fallen asleep during the call. Usually, he couldn’t sleep when on a trip. He would tire himself out with running or any exercises. On the rare occasions you couldn’t answer the phone, he would also drink to make the thoughts go away. Yet this time, he had fallen asleep during the call because you had been his home, and he needed you more than anything.

[world-in-a-nook]

Hear me out : Sugilite and Arlan are from Adlivun

All three have tan skin and white hair.

Sugilite has been associated to egyptian imagery. Nanook is pouring sand in Nanook's gaze cutscene and the Myriad Celestia trailer. He is also wearing a kilt, ones that could ressemble from ancient Egypt.

In "Total recall", Arlan talks about Adlivun to March ("You were the last princess and also the last survivor of the diamond world, Adlivun"). Both Arlan and Nanook share scars on their arms. Arlan was poor, maybe it was because his planet was destroyed ?

[world-in-a-nook]

A collection of jewels and interests

Welcome, one and all !

As usual I'm late to the party but I wanted the hype around the stonehearts to calm down so I could focus on their designs and also see any interesting comments on the video.

Excuse my bad english, it is 1 AM when I'm writing this and english isn't my native language.

I- Analyse of each design with the stone

II- One narrative idea/theory

III- Our next encounter

Analyse of each design

Amber

"Amber prefers to remain neutral"

English Voice Actor : ?

With which path we might see them : ?

Amber is one of the most unknown stoneheart since they aren't voiced, yet they could be more important than what they seem.

We have a lack of design for Amber yet we could see them as a woman which would like like an operator. We could theorize that she is at the head of "Eidor", the IPC's computer operating system. This would explain her rank : she has a very special job so her rank isn't solid per say.

Speaking of solid, her "stone" is amber which is the second organic member of the ten stonehearts. Amber is solidfied resine which has been used since prehistory. Resine has been used to help trees to help treat its wounds but also stray away any predators. Amber solidifed can "preserve" beings such as insects. Speaking of which, who has major insect themes inside HSR ? Propagation and we know that the Propagation is sealed within amber(Readdable: Glimpses into the Beyond, "Inquiry Into The Gods: The Authors of Calamity"). So maybe, Amber is defending or protecting the seal with its Aeon at bay.

As such, she is putting up walls and following Qlipoth's wish and such a true follower of the Preservation.

Agate

"There's also Agate. They might be dead. I even have to convey their opinions for them."

English Voice Actor : ?

With which path we might see them : Nihility (seen lower)

Another mysterious stoneheart with pratically no face except for that mysterious shadow. The design reminds me of ancient chinese buddhist altar. When searching more about them, the depiction of an old man with a smile had been related to Tchong lieou, an ancient god of the familial soil which was reverred in Ancient China. He was revered because he could bring fortune. (The gods of the soil - Edouard Chavannes).

South Red Agate is known to bring vitality and prosperity and is also used to hold auspicious messages.

We already have a paradox between South Red Agate bringing vitality yet the character being possibly dead, according to Obsidian. So we have a character with the imagery of Death and Wealth. It reminds me of Hades/Pluto. The silhouette could also remind of Caishan, a god of wealth in chinese mythology.

Sugilite

"Death... This kind of unnecesssary extravagance was just for yourself, wasn't it ?"

English Voice Actor : AJ Beckles (some additional voices according to his IMDB)

With which path we might see them : Erudition (seen below)

Sugilite gives us a lot to work with : the stone gives the supposed power of cleavoyance, on the self. Yet the power of the stone is used here in reverse : allowing him to see through others.So the sharp tongue could come with a sharp mind, Sugilite might be a perceptive individual. Its also shown through the fact that they expected a 4v4 on Aventurine's vote. His environment could be some sort of illusion or just showing off to Aventurine what he isn't born in : wealth beyond measure. He could also just flex his wealth to Aventurine

If we focus out of this and take out the "extravagance", we can take out the various egyptian designs. While bringing out the hope for some character with melanin, the imagery is mainly of two cats/jackals and Ankha's cross. If we are going into egyptian mythology, it could associate Sugilite with Isis and Anubis. This imagery could either link to the Hunt/Abundance with the care for the dead or resurrection. Though we might see him sooner than we think...

Pearl

"But as an intellitron,I think there should be more 'justice' in your life"

English Voice Actor : Cat Protano (Misha, Skirk in Genshin)

With which path we might see them : ?

Pearl is an interesting one since she is an intellitron yet with the second organic "stone". With her design we get that she probably originates from Lushaka or Thalassa with all the fish designs. Though if we associate them with chinese mythology, Pearl could go with Long since pearls are associated with dragons in some chinese myths.

Since we are on the gem, Pearl could have a ton of story with the use of her stone :

pearls can be faked easily or appear uneven (the baroque movement was afterall named after the word "barocco" which designates a malformed pearl). So she could be one precious pearl, a model of intellitron super evolved.

pearls, in ancient asia, was a symbol of the soul's path towards perfection. Here we had a very important quality from pearl : Kindness and a form of Justice*(will comment on that later).

Sapphire

"But some value their oaths more, Sapphire is in favor of punishment"

English Voice Actor : ?

With which path we might see them : Abundance (a path all about kindness needs some sort of antagonist, and he could be with the Xianzhou)

Another stoneheart without a face, their design though is pretty interesting. First of all, it is the only stoneheart purely facing away from the "camera". This denial to show himself could be an outright refusal to join the stoneheart, since they aren't really following Qlipoth. The use of the mythical animal is very much interesting because it goes well with the whole theme of Sapphir's design : chivalry.

We have the towers, the swords and shields. The creature is hippogriff. It would join the theme of chivalry because in Orlando furioso, the hippogriff is a symbol of Orlando's pulsions (Orlando could be his real name). If we assimiliate the Pearl's word with this, we have a painting : Sapphir separates from his chivalourous self to become a extremist regarding Qlipoth. This also goes well with some symbology of Sapphir being a gem for loyalty but also truth. It gives a whole picture of Sapphir without words : he is a one of Qlipoth's zealot that joined the stoneheart.

Regarding the stone and Sapphire's personanity, I think that he would be double faced : he would be honest, loyal, truthful and a calm individual but if provoked, can go berserk. It would be the stone's symbolism but also the paradox of his sword's design : they are crossed and downwards meaning that a battle is over, yet earlier he was pretty much fervent in Aventurine's punishment.

Obsidian

"Just my two cents, I think we're being overly timid. If it were me I'd like everything become more of a bloodbath."

English Voice Actor : Erin Yvette (Arlechino in Genshin ; they really like her to play black, white and red characters)

With which path we might see them : Nihility

Let's talk about the two elephants in the room :

She has obviously some vampiric imagery with the colourpalette, the bats, gothic architecture, night and so on. I'm not going to refuse those because Hoyo isn't being very subtle. But there might be more than we think...

Though I am going to be a little more nuanced on the blood/pomegranate bath. The imagery is supposed to evoke Erzsébet Bathory (falsely accused of killing virgins to bath in their blood and stay young, though it was false since she was rescuing sick women to cure them - this comment section for more info). (Her real name could be Elizabeth) The pomegranate will be more adressed in the "Groups encountered in the Stonehearts" section.

The stone for Obsidian is relevant for her personnality : Obsidian is cooled lava and it could either suggest the undead idea or someone appearing calm but can be ruthless (shown also with the text). Obsidian is a protective stone that is known to be very strong and very fast so it would also go with the ruthless personnality trait. Obsidian is used to stop instabilities : in the character's case, it could be some kind of inquisitor.

Opal

"We band together... Merely to obtain what we want"

English Voice Actor : Paul Castro Jr. (Freminet in Genshin)

With which path we might see them : None (Pier point)

From his design, we know that he is most likely a pepeshi. This choice is probably to echo his stone but also contrats it : opal is a symbol of Hope and Purity. Purity associated naturally with children so pepeshi it is. Though it is very well contrasted with his ruthless personnality : Aventurine was chosen over him for a more peaceful outcome, he comments on a planet getting destroyed, encourages Silerwolf to hack the Interastral Peace Entertainment server (source : [WARNING: SUSPICIOUS MESSAGE] Send it all out!) and last, but not least, he is the only one seen with a weapon on Jade's image of the Ten stonehart '(2.2). Though the cleavoyance from his stone comes also at provoking Aventurine (Aventurine - Character Story: Part IV).

Hades & Persephone - Agate & Obsidian

related path : Nihility

As seen by the previous analysis, Agate is associated with health and some kind of death. While Obsidian with the vampire is associated with Death but also the pomegranate. With this, we could also add that Obsidian is wearing a crown and has roses in the side of her design. It could be some more gothic inspiration but also, Persephone was in love with Adonis (whose blood created red roses). It goes well, again with the obsessed with blood.

Greek mythology has already been mentioned with Acheron being 'Charon' (the boatman guiding the souls to the Underword) but also the river. With 2.1, Acheron seems to be hinting at IX being some kind of land of the damned but also leading somewhere.

The important point is that Agate "might" be dead. They are currently MIA with only being capable of communicating through Obsidian.

Obsidian which has the pomegranate but also has a black, white and red. Who also has this colour palette ? Acheron in her ult form. We also know that the symptomes of Self-Annihilator are varied : "These phenomena can hardly be explained by the laws of nature" (Databank : Self-Annihilator)

My theory is the following : Obsidian has become a Self-Annihilator and her symptom is being a "vampire". Her only true self in the bloodlust. Taht's why she's able to communicate with Agate, stuck in Nihility/the land of the Dead.

Following this, we know that IX doesn't choose Emanators, you just become one by going through it. So my theory is that TB will go through Nihility, aided or not by Obsidian, to see Agate and maybe someone precious to TB. And it goes the Orpheus way and the person won't be able to come out.

Our next encounter :

Opal

The most hinted stoneheart other than Jade, Topaz and Aventurine. It goes well with also the fact that the Greeks had opals and symbology about it (seeing it as purity). Though I do not subscribe to this theory since he is seen at Pier Point by Silver Wolf, the most important stoneheart (beside Diamond) so would stay at Pier point and the environment in which he is seen looks very much industrial.

Sugilite

Sugilite has been the one with the most chat and directly speaking to Aventurine. HSR has established the tradition of stonehearts going one then another with a phonecall or some sort of contact (Topaz called by Aventurine, Aventurine called by Jade but also teased by Sugilite here).

My theory of Erudition becoming TB's next path would also go with Sugilite's stone according to clearvoyance. It would go well with the topic of knowledge and knowing where to purposely hit to destroy someone.

The egyptian theme would also go well with this theory since the greek were in Egypt for a long period of time. Afterall Cleopatra was greek. Speaking of which, we could assist with a new Cleopatra, Antony vs Octavian.

If we follow my theory : Sugilite would try to help one of the paths to obtain the stellaron/ressources at play, if there is one, and would fail (since we know that the planet is already destroyed).

What do you think ?

[world-in-a-nook]

Prediction : the tragedy of Amorpheus

Welcome one and all to my theory crafting around the next HSR planet !

For this, we will use Black Swan's lines about Amphoreus and try to analyse and probably theorize on what Amphoreus' story will be about.

I hope that you pardon my english, it isn't my first language.

I- The story of the planet II-The three paths

I- The story of the planet

A- The state of the planet

First of all, we have all the flags abount an antiquity inspired planet : the name of the achievement, the planet's name and so on.

We also know that the planet is only accessible through "the light from the mirror of the Garden of Recollection" and that Akivilli never reached Amphoreus.

So here is my theory : we are going to use the Graden of Recollection's miror to go back in time to when Amphoreus existed/was in better shape.

The keywords from Black Swan are "reached" and that it "only" possible through the Garden of Recollection. We know that the Garden's task is to gather memories to make sure that the universe is remembered after the Destruction. We also know that their members can "freely traverse between worlds, unconstrained by physical limits." (Data bank ; Factions)

We have seen that with Black Swan and the dreamscape : she can freely go from the dreamscape to reality. So that means that they aren't affected by space. But what if they aren't affected by Time either ? Then, only people unaffected by time from the Garden of Recollection could access Amphoreus, and such Akivilli would have never reached Amphoreus.

This would also explain why the Astral Express would never need fuel after that : it would make it a timeless machine, that goes beyond time and space, a paradox. In a more darker turn of events, it could also be the planet's destruction that fuels the Astral Express.

B- The plot

Since the planet must be either destroyed or in a very catastrophic way. I would imagine the story based on the tragedy : the Astral Express will tell the people of Amphoreus that their planet is destroyed, everyone will try so that it doesn't happen but everything has already happened and it will end up destroyed. This mixed in with a "Fall of Rome" kind of context.

Why am I thinking so ?

First, Rome is known for its political history being a mess.

Rome and Ancient Greece are known for their tragedies. Those have usually prophecies that are trying to be escaped but ended up happening anyway. And by the Astral Express coming from the future, they would be the ideal prophetic role.

The japanese name for Amphoreus is Omphalos. And Delphi's was known to be the center of the world, according to the greeks. Delphi is well known for its oracles.

"Eternal Land" isn't used to be literal. Black Swan is a Memokeeper and as such believes that all "world will eventually perish, but they can live on in another way — through Remembrance." (Databank ; factions). And such, Black Swan would be basically using some dramatic irony (mostly used in tragedies) to mock Amphoreus' people. It is how we view Rome's Fall : there were the signs that Rome would fall, yet nobody could stop it.

The planet's destruction would be a political crisis from the three paths (a word of them ahead) with a stellaron at play. My theory would be that one of the paths would want to exploit the stellaron for power linked with the hybris theme (the theme that men always try to be as powerful as gods but end up punished). We could also link it to Cesar's deification signaled by a comet.

Post Scriptum : If the Astral Express aren't the one announcing the planet's destruction, we could have an apparition of the Omen Vanguards, Terminus' followers (since they "They are dedicated to drawing prophecies from Terminus's obscure words.").

II- The three paths

"Human behavior flows from three main sources : desire, emotion and knowledge" - Plato

Erudition - Mourning Actors- Enigmata

Erudition :

For the fact that Ancient Greece had an immense impact on today's intellectual (look at Dr.Ratio's design).

The Genius Society, Nous' followers, are already known to be quite prideful so it would made sense for the hybris theme.

We don't know Nous' creation and ascension to aeonhood. So we could have Nous' followers in that point in time.

"Knowledge comes at the price of suffering." (Fu Xian voiceline Chat : Third Eye) and so, following my idea, it would be the knowledge that the planet will end up destroyed/dead that makes the Trailblazer and the Astral Express suffer.

We need another path for the trailblazer

Mourning Actors :

Their performances are akin to greek tragedies

Like Nous, we do not know when Aha arose to aeonhood.

Despite doing greek tragedies, their philosophy is closer to Pascal's (“Distraction is the only thing that consoles us for miseries and yet it is itself the greatest of our miseries.” ; replace Distraction with Elation and you have it.). And Pascal also has some quotes about truth. I wouldn't be surprise if we see Mourning Actors get inspiration in Amorpheus.

Enigmata :

Purely out of opposition to Erudition, first and formost.

The romans were well-known to copy the greeks (even in their mythology) yet hate them. So Enigmata being opposite to Nous would fit the bill but also Rome could be replaces with Enigmata : taking history and changing it.

There is the sentence of erasing someone from History known in ancient history and it would fit the Enigmata pretty well.

Enigmata has been hinted through Gallagher in Penacony and Hoyo doesn't show us something just for the sack of it.

Enigmata could be seen as an easy antagonist for the arc. (And if we follow my idea, Nous' followers would be the one creating their demise)

Side note : Beauty is a path that I have seen mentioned in theories and could be (since Aeneas, the founder of Rome, is seen as the son of Aphrodite, goddess of love ). Though I have to say that it wouldn't fit with the idea of "balance" because it doesn't have a counterpoint.

Thank you for reading my messy theory ! Have a wonderful day/night ! (It is 2AM when I finish writing this).

[world-in-a-nook]

"Aim for the heart"

characters : Aventurine ; Dr.Ratio relationship : Aventurine x Dr.Ratio (ambigious) art : @glasody__ + official (Dr.Ratio's eidolons) synopsis : thoughts during "The Final Victor" Lightcone warnings : russian roulette ; gun ; suicidal tendencies ; lack of gun knowledge wc: 905 nda : not my native language

"You expect me to believe you ?"

There wasn’t a day where he doubted his intellect but this time something happened that he hadn’t planned, something outside all probabilities. In a world where everything could be planned and meticulously calculated, it was easy to find other’s faults and errors. Yet, this time, he couldn’t find his. Humanity was supposed to save themselves; to strive towards survival yet this man had just done the opposite, just to prove a point. How foolish… He could’ve chosen to offer something else, a statistic about his wins, anything else but this.

He couldn’t understand the expression, the unwavering smile and the faint glimmer in those hypnotizing eyes. Anything could happen. The probabilities were one out of six, and he wouldn’t press the trigger, it was just some kind of act, a provocative gesture to show some kind of dominance.

Click

His eyes widened when the man had pressed his finger on the trigger. One chance out of five now. He hadn’t hesitated. Unmoving pupils, almost dilated. Was it the adrenaline? He couldn’t understand and it was maddening, yet different. He couldn’t ignore the shiver running down his spine, the cold sweat trailing down his nape and the multitude of thoughts coming to him. How did that gambler not move any inch at the possibility of death? Or was it this possible of everything ended that drove him further?

He didn’t realise yet, but his eyes widened when he realized: all his life, his brain had been challenged through trials and error, yet he had never been challenged through his emotions. The gambler had aimed not to his capacity of calculation, but his capacity to feel. The truth that had prior relied upon his capacity to calculate and adapt logically, had now been thrown upside down. The gambler was surely aiming at himself, but this thrill seeker was truly aiming at his heart. Was it some sort of test ?

Of course, he wasn’t. He was the doctor, a professor of great renown. This feeling was nothing but to test of predictable would be the gambler’s death. A scrutiny caused to provoke him. It was just to prove a point. The bullet could be a blank.

Click

And yet what if ? One chance out of four remaining. 25% chance of dying for the gambler. The barrel pressed on the man’s shirt. He would’ve stopped this nonsense and looked at the bullet to see if it was a blank. It couldn’t be: the gambler was a skilled shooter who practiced in his free time. Yet again the question remains: why would he be so ruthless just to prove a point? It wasn’t a test between them either. That gambler wanted to make him feel. What would happen if the stoic doctor had a hand in his life? What would he do if he wasn’t able to think himself out of the situation? And the moment was absurd, yet thrilling, letting him feel free.

He swallowed with difficulty. This gambler had found a crux out in his probabilities. He wasn’t on the other side of the gun yet he felt paralysed. He had been seen.

"Why not, doctor ? Life is a big gamble and I'm always the Final Victor"

What an absurd moment. He had yearned to survive up until today, yet he was now ready to throw it away. His hand behind his back as he seemed ready to pull the trigger. He was ready to put his life on the line to show his determination. If he had to put the most valuable that could exist just to show his determination, then he would. No amount of chip would equal to the value of a life, especially his, yet he was ready to bet it, was he?

No change in his facial expression but his hand gripped the potential to go on, for his luck to reach him once again. The chance that he could survive one more day was what he hanged on to. He would live one more day to spite those who wanted the avgins to fall.

Click

He held the barrel closely to his heart, to the fiery determination that plagued his mind. All his gambles, all his plans had been mind games. Some sort of test to his own luck. Yet the gun was aimed at the true reason he continued to advance. However grand was the pot, he was aiming not at winning against the house but winning the house and making it his own. Full House. Yet his was empty, no family to boast his victories.

The man facing him looked perplexed, confused on who would do a bet like this. He was a source of grounding: someone who thought that everything could be calculated. Yet in a single move, a single bet, he had moved the man’s world upside down. Despite the severe and stoic face, which was usually hiding under the handsome bust, he had this uncertainty in the eyes. The flickering pupils, the trembling hand on the gun, what a handsome look on someone so usually sure of themselves. He enjoyed the hidden shocked expression. The one that he saw when the unpredictable happened.

He had seen through the doctor’s face, his need for recognition. And he was showing it now: he could see him now and he had aimed directly to his heart. They had both everything on the line: Aventurine had put his line while the doctor had his pride. It was in this moment that they truly saw each other.