You were successful in repelling the robots attacking the city, but you've been left with far too many questions. For once, Tails doesn't have any answers for you, and a gloomy uncertainty has fallen over your three allies. It probably doesn't help that everyone had a rough time of it last week. A win is a win, but it doesn't really feel like a win when you're not even sure who this unknown threat is...
Regardless, life goes on. Things are a bit different this week in Chicago, however.
THE CITY
You'll need to be careful now more than ever when heading out into the city. Though Eggman's usual robots are still present, their numbers have been cut drastically. Far fewer drones patrol the streets, with only the occasional tank or B33 to be seen. You can still find and fight them, and they will still call for backup, but it seems like you all really have destroyed a lot of them.
But there are the new additions to Eggman's forces. Unlike the white chrome versions, these are here to cause problems. You can find them patrolling sometimes... but usually you'll find them in the city proper, destroying whatever they can. Whenever they catch sight of you, they will stop at nothing to try to pursue you and destroy you.
The city itself is still undergoing changes, with more of that white chrome spreading throughout, as if infecting the structures themselves. The Badniks will still destroy even that, though; it's more like they're mindless machines than carrying out any precise orders.
But in a stroke of good luck, occasionally you'll find that some of the humans recognize the danger they're in. It's only when confronted with a robot - but you might hear a scream, or see them try to run away, and if you save them, you may even be able to get a few words in before they simply return to their monotonous lives. You won't be able to get any truly valuable information from them, but they will thank you repeatedly for helping. They don't seem to realize that they're being controlled by someone else, even if you ask them about it.
VISIONS
If you thought last week was a lot, get ready for the madness of week 4!
You may still have nightmares. You may still be pulled into each others' nightmares (same as last week, if you'd like to play out more of these). Or maybe you'll finally be able to catch a break and get some z's, but even if you are lucky enough for that, you'll still be dealing with everything else.
You may find yourself randomly teleported into the city. This happens at random, and can happen to multiple people at the same time. One minute you may be waking up, the next you'll find yourself surrounded by robots ready to kill you. And yeah, the robots are a feature, not a bug. No matter how it happens, you will always be facing down robots whenever you're brought into the city. Enjoy!
But maybe your luck holds out and you're unaffected by that. Well, there's still the visions to deal with!
There are two different kinds of visions that may happen.
The first are the more minor ones - where you may see the people closest to you (positive or negative). They will appear for others as well, and they will gladly speak with you - though they aren't exactly behaving in the way they should. They will torment you, reminding you of past failures and imperfections, and speaking as though everything is your fault. They will follow you wherever you go, and will only fade when someone else has helped you come to terms with the horrid things they're saying. These visions are a manifestation of a character's psyche and thus are based on their own perceptions of their friends/enemies and their own faults. They're incapable of interacting with the world or the characters, but they sure can insult you!
The second are much larger in scope. No matter where you were, you may find yourself pulled into friend's memory. These memories are one-for-one versions of what exactly happened, though now you're here! Are you playing the role of someone else, or are you just a bystander in all that's happening?
The character having the vision may or may not be aware of you initially, but once they're made aware of your presence, the vision will still play out as the memory would. The only way to stop it - aside from simply letting it play out in its entirety - is to drastically alter the memory in such a way that it cannot get itself back on track. Considering the trauma some of the people in this game have, it might be a good idea to help break them free of it.
Regardless of which happens to you (the nightmares, the teleportation, or the visions), your vision will turn bright red for a moment afterwards - it vanishes quickly enough, but it leaves you with the eerie feeling that you're being watched.
SHARDS
Your powers are growing, and you'll find you're able to defend yourself with your power in some way, even if yours is a power made for support. All characters are now able to fire off a blast of energy in their shard color to defend themselves - this attack will grow stronger in time, but at least everyone should be able to defend themselves (somewhat) now?
As you fight with your allies - particularly those you have a close bond with, positive or negative - you may feel the tug of something in the back of your head; it tells you that you can do more. Together, you can become more powerful. You can use your shards together. Doing so will grant you a new power, or strengthen the one you already have. The more you trust one another, the easier this power will be to use.
It might be good to experiment with these new powers; after all, you never know when you may need them.
TAILS' TASKS
Like last week, Sonic Team is still in need of rings. Rings are still annoying to get. You'll probably need help to get them, but they're worth collecting. So make sure to grab some for Tails!
You may also be tasked with tracking Chaos Energy. Like with tracking rings, Tails will give you a device that can pick up on the signature. You should be careful in approaching, especially if the signature is a large one, considering the three enemies you faced last weekend. Still, Chaos Energy may lead you to more of Eggman's fake Chaos Emeralds, which could prove useful...
Tracking the source down will lead you to one of the weekly enemies with a shard somewhere on its body. It will be much harder to kill than the regular versions of that enemy, and capable of some kind of special power (players' choice). Crushing the shard will weaken the enemy and bring it back down to its normal power level, making it fairly easy to defeat, but if you manage to defeat it without breaking the shard, you can bring it back to Tails for examination.
ENEMIES
Though you can still find the enemies from previous weeks in Chicago throughout the city, their numbers have thinned. Mostly, you'll be running into new faces - robots that don't look anything like Eggman's usuals. They are very rarely actually patrolling or idling, instead focused on destroying parts of the city or attacking any people unfortunate enough to get in their way.
Moto Bugs are... rather cute. They roll around on their singular wheel and can slash with their front claws, though primarily they deal damage by ramming into things at fairly high speeds. They're fairly weak, all things considered, especially by now. They're completely powerless when knocked over or onto their backs. Though one Moto Bug is weak, you will never find them alone - instead, you'll usually find at least 3-5 of them in a group.
Crabmeats are robotic crabs. Where does the meat come in? Unclear. Regardless, they're stronger than Moto Bugs and are capable of both bashing with their massive claws and snipping, and either way they are capable of a good deal of damage if you get hit. They're slower though, which means getting out of the way shouldn't be too hard. Like Moto Bugs, these usually are never alone, often working in pairs.
Buzzers are bees. Did you think we were done with bees? We are absolutely not done with bees. These bees function almost identically to the B33 models in that they're capable of firing lasers from their stingers, divebombing to try to sting, and generally be(e)ing a nuisance. Unlike the B33 models, they do not have a glaringly obvious weak point and are a bit harder to hit and destroy as a result. Though you may rarely encounter only one of these bees out in the wild, usually you'll run into groups of them and they will not be(e) happy to see you.
[ Those...sure are some nightmares that are happening, aren't there? What can Void Archives do but get themselves wrapped up in it? With the scenes that are being shown before the blond's eyes, they are unable to look away.
From the reveal of the odd mechanism to everything else that comes after, it's one hit after another.
The monster that also attacked, though, seems like a recurring, formidable beast. Considering the fight they recall happening and all that, they're not surprised.
The fading images of the trio are something quite curious - the two girls, and...Yeager himself, perhaps?
The dream is quite intense. But, Void Archives sits in contemplation.
Unlike last time, they do think it is something that should need addressing if they can find Yeager around. Even if they so happen to take a moment to let everything sink in before going on the little search! ]
[It takes Yeager a little longer than usual to start the day. But then, of course it does - that dream was from a lifetime ago, and it takes him a moment to remember where he is, who he is. He doesn't really feel like putting on the usual act.
But it's not like there's much of a choice in the matter, now is there?
So eventually Void Archives will find Yeager out and about around the base; he's once again decided to doodle all over the walls because that's... expected. Safe, maybe. Something obnoxious that Yeager does that doesn't require any thought or speaking to anyone and he can pretend that dream didn't happen. And then hopefully tomorrow will be better, and he can pretend like this didn't happen. It's worked out well enough for him so far. Maybe his luck will continue to hold out.]
Void Archives sees Yeager hard at work, doodling all the walls, expression unreadable.
Then, they leave.
They return to join him with some coloring implements to join him. They're not certain if it will last long because of the topic they're planning on bringing up in the first place, but it seemed like a perfectly logical idea?? (What logic is even in this...?) ]
Ah, there you are, Yeager! [ They say like they didn't notice him before. Draw a couple of mecha-like squiggles or something. Pause in consideration and break whatever thin line of harmony there may be with: ] I was looking for you. It appears that this time I experienced a rather more intense...dream regarding your past.
[Void Archives gets him. What a lovely distraction this will be! It's so much easier to have someone who will just let him be Aggressively Himself so he doesn't have to think. Some of them don't let him get away with it, but of everyone here? Void Archives seems the sort to keep their mouth shut, even if they're fully aware Yeager isn't quite acting as he usually does. So this is perfectly acceptable.]
You're welcome to join me!
[And they're even doodling, look at that, how lovely—]
No, no that isn't possible. That can't be possible, because no one is supposed to see that. That's his secret - the one he's supposed to take to his grave - the one he's literally killed people over before because they saw that horrid thing—
He doesn't have his weapon on him. He doesn't carry it around the base. He's grown far too complacent here, thinking that the only threats here were from Eggman and his robots.
...And yet.
It's hard to forget last week, when Void Archives witnessed another portion of his past - one that was never meant to see the light of day either, twisted and corrupted as it was. And now Void Archives knows the conclusion to that story.
(Because it's not like anything else that came after that matters, now does it?)
It takes a moment for Yeager to remember to breathe. His free hand has found its way to his chest, as it almost always does whenever this topic comes up. He grips the damn blastia beneath the cravat tightly for a moment before forcing himself to let go.]
I'm afraid that just isn't possible. Otherwise, if I were human, it could be entertained with ease!
[ In all honesty, that's just the truth. Their nature makes it impossible. Not to mention though they could convey the sentiment, would the nagging feeling truly go away? That they would have never forgotten? Would it truly, earnestly satisfy Yeager? At a time like this, they wonder if those thoughts are far too strongly based in logic, because there can be an emotional aspect that may be satisfied, but...something less logical tells them that it isn't enough. Instinct? Though, they don't believe they have that, either. ]
As it is, I didn't necessarily come here to discuss it all with you in grand detail; especially since I doubt it is what you want. I already understand it is a heavy and unfortunate situation.
You see, isn't it clear that I've witnessed twice such personal moments? Your memories of precious moments or horrid ones in their entirety...
...Yes, the fact is, I came here to inform you. But, also to grant you an opportunity to know more about myself in exchange.
Because while I am quite curious about your events, and there are things that I do wish to ask - there is no point in pretending I am suddenly so blindly kind as to not be curious - is there not something far more important than one's curiosity? If I am to know about you, does it not make sense that you should know about myself as well?
[ They sigh, shaking their head, wondering about their own actions. They supposed they could have kept it to themselves; that they had such information as well, but instead they sought out Yeager. The last time...they could not even turn things around in a dreadful nightmare; they had no idea why they had gotten such a foolish idea into their own head. And now, this.
Perhaps something tangible about how distraught Yeager had been in such a memory...twice over...? Which reminds them— ]
...In addition, of what I witnessed then I will not have it be mentioned to anyone else. You have my silence. For what that is worth. And that, is something I can guarantee.
Strange, he hadn't thought Void Archives would be kind about this, while never actually being emotional about it. It's bad enough to have to relive his own emotional distress; he certainly doesn't want to deal with anyone else's over such events.
Yeager finally turns to look at Void Archives and though his expression is still somewhat blank, he looks thoughtful.]
Very well. I'll accept your silence, if you cannot forget it.
[As for the rest...]
I can't guarantee I'll be able to answer your questions. There's much I either don't know or... can't bear to think on. But I suppose I can humor you - an exchange of information is a suitable compromise, ja.
[It's strictly founded in logic and reasoning rather than emotion, and that's so much easier for him to focus on. It may be something of an apology on Void Archives' end, in that they now know far more about Yeager than they'd ever wanted to or needed to, but he's been curious about the yapping cube anyway, so this works out well enough. It's settled him more than he thought it would.]
[ They don't even realize it, that they've obtained the ability to be that much; but in the end it is a mark of their own individual personhood - that even in their own way they can be considerate. Though they would turn their nose up at the suggestion that they could even care enough to manage.
It surprises them, too - but, this manner of kindness doesn't make them feel apprehensive. They observe the expression on Yeager's face momentarily, wondering and hoping that this time...well, they'll let that file away as they consider how to approach this.
Perhaps a bit methodically, but in a way, it may in fact be that they aren't exactly overly emotional that can help. Their own expression turns considering. ]
I do appreciate it, Yeager.
[ An acknowledgement where due. Though, first, they will grant him a better starting point for potential ammo on his own end. ]
Now, before I ask my own, I shall grant something for you to start with, so you are not blindly grasping in the dark. Obviously you heard myself state that I am inhuman - but rather than something organic I am, at heart, an inorganic being.
[ A purposeful pause, to allow that to sink in. And then, they turn their true attention towards the background of this. ]
As for myself, my first questions...that man, the Commandant, did he ever try to pursue you following all of that? Why was he so desperate? And, what did those little girls have to do with all of that, exactly? I witnessed their appearance at the end, alongside you, I believe. These are where my initial curiosities lie.
[An inorganic being. Considering how they talk, they seem to be quite different from Dorothy's brand of inorganic. Certainly something worth questioning, but Yeager will focus on Void Archives' questions for now.]
He did not. We met up again only somewhat recently, where he decided to make use of me to further his own plans. I was in no position to refuse.
[Not necessarily because of his past, but it would be a lie to say that it had nothing to do with it.]
I can't explain any of his motivations as I never asked him about any of them.
[He has no damn idea why Alexei brought him and Raven back. He doesn't want to stop and think about it. Thankfully, the last topic is easier and Yeager relaxes the tiniest bit.]
Those girls are Gauche and Droite. I adopted them around... eight years ago, perhaps? They're members of my guild.
[And also his daughters, he just rarely actually addresses them as such because It's Complicated (no it isn't).]
I see...I hope that it didn't go all that well for him and I will keep it at that.
[ As for the rest, Void Archives finds themselves continuing to keep to that policy, thinking that there's certainly no other reason to ask much more on that topic in particular. The thing about witnessing the memory in particular is that they, for the most part, felt that it was quite straightforward.
In all honesty, they hadn't anticipated Yeager would have allowed questions in the first place, given that they believe there was an out in there. But, they're not about to make this all that painful. ]
...Are they now? Hm, well. Most people do end up having their own reasons for adopting children, and I'm sure you have no issues providing for them.
[ They seem to pause, to consider all of this, but then make a swift decision. ]
Well, it may surprise you Yeager, however I have decided that I have nothing else to ask as of now.
But Void Archives simply elects to leave it there, without any further questions, and after a moment of staring, Yeager laughs. It's a short, sharp laugh that has no humor at all in it; almost as though it's a more involuntary action than anything else.]
You have my thanks, then.
[For simply leaving at that, maybe. For not getting emotional about it. For not making him think any harder about it than he has to, perhaps.]
I'll admit I'm quite curious about you, you know. What exactly are you, if that isn't a too terribly rude thing to ask?
[ Ah, perhaps they did surprise him. But, hey, better than not for once. Which, come to think of it, they don't think they've been in the habit of surprising people much lately (as far as they know anyway, so they'll consider it as a good happenstance. ]
I am quite glad to have it.
[ As genuine as they can be! Incidentally, Yeager's spot of 'little' rudeness does invite a tiny chuckle from the blond, though. They don't seem offended - because they're not by far. ]
Oh, do not worry. I have quite the thick skin. [ Jocular tone in mind, but true. ] As for myself, I have explained to some that I am one thing or other. But, I shall grant you a little more.
I am the Void Archives—a Divine Key, a construct that contains a constantly updating database of the civilization of humanity. I am a fragment of PROMETHEUS.
I am an artificial device created by humanity, for the sake of their preservation. [ They said as much at least once or twice, though do add: ] And for the fight against "Honkai".
[Some of that means nothing to him, but it does give him the general idea - that Void Archives is exactly what they say on the tin, a literal archive of humanity. Absolutely fascinating, though perhaps a bit overwhelming to really think about.]
[ In fact, this is a good tie-in to something else. ]
...Do you recall when I told you about 'zombies' in my homeworld...?
This Honkai is able to cause such things. From those kinds of creatures, to the most ruthless of Honkai Beasts, and then Herrschers themselves. Then, there is Honkai Sickness. All originate from 'Honkai', which by itself exists to put an end to civilization.
[ Well, putting it in a very basic manner because it's true, though there are also various complexities to it. ]
[ Yeah and it won't be a strange thing that begins with the letter a either. Totally not— ]
Honkai is sealed, so it isn't exactly an active concern. Though, I was searching for a method to be rid of it in its entirety as I am bound by such a goal. [ due to their programming, which is annoying, but it's fine. ] Before all of this, I wasn't even in my original universe due to various circumstances.
Regardless, I came here because it is entirely possible that the threat could eventually come back to cause trouble for my homeworld.
[ Not out of saving this one due to the goodness of their heart. They're not nearly kind enough for that. ]
I'm sure you can understand such a motivation? I doubt you're the type to do this because you felt kind-hearted, exactly.
[From the sound of it, it's more "preservation" than actively "saving people". There is a difference, however small, and Void Archives is the prime example of that. Their assertion gets a smirk from Yeager.]
Oh, certainly not. I was in a terrible position, and this was my last hope of saving myself.
[That's not what he would have called it at the start of all of this, but that's what it has turned into now.]
I'm not even slightly "heroic". But there are people I would rather not have to deal with this threat in my own world, so I'm willing to work with everyone to avoid such a fate. All I want at the end of this is to retain my freedom.
Ah, I see. Then, coming here...it is your second chance, is it not?
[ They absorb the knowledge thoroughly. They wonder what Yeager had thought of it all initially? But, then as he speaks, he mentions his ultimate goal and they're a little startled; maybe because it is something they resonate keenly with. But, of course he would say it after everything, right? That memory... ]
We have that in common, don't we? That is, deciding not to arrive here due to a sense of heroism, but for our personal benefit. [ For a moment their mind flashes back to Yeager's remarking on being unable to refuse. ] Also, I can't say I don't comprehend the desire to hold onto your freedom. There was a time where I sought it even more fiercely than before...
When I was not only restricted by purpose, but locked away. [ One of those still applies, but this— ] Yes, that's why...I too urgently wish for you to achieve that freedom you seek. Hold fast to that resolve, as the one responsible for trying to steal it away once more should be the one made to suffer, hm?
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i. nightmares;
From the reveal of the odd mechanism to everything else that comes after, it's one hit after another.
The monster that also attacked, though, seems like a recurring, formidable beast. Considering the fight they recall happening and all that, they're not surprised.
The fading images of the trio are something quite curious - the two girls, and...Yeager himself, perhaps?
The dream is quite intense. But, Void Archives sits in contemplation.
Unlike last time, they do think it is something that should need addressing if they can find Yeager around. Even if they so happen to take a moment to let everything sink in before going on the little search! ]
no subject
But it's not like there's much of a choice in the matter, now is there?
So eventually Void Archives will find Yeager out and about around the base; he's once again decided to doodle all over the walls because that's... expected. Safe, maybe. Something obnoxious that Yeager does that doesn't require any thought or speaking to anyone and he can pretend that dream didn't happen. And then hopefully tomorrow will be better, and he can pretend like this didn't happen. It's worked out well enough for him so far. Maybe his luck will continue to hold out.]
no subject
Void Archives sees Yeager hard at work, doodling all the walls, expression unreadable.
Then, they leave.
They return to join him with some coloring implements to join him. They're not certain if it will last long because of the topic they're planning on bringing up in the first place, but it seemed like a perfectly logical idea?? (What logic is even in this...?) ]
Ah, there you are, Yeager! [ They say like they didn't notice him before. Draw a couple of mecha-like squiggles or something. Pause in consideration and break whatever thin line of harmony there may be with: ] I was looking for you. It appears that this time I experienced a rather more intense...dream regarding your past.
1/2
You're welcome to join me!
[And they're even doodling, look at that, how lovely—]
2/2
You... You saw that.
[...No.
No, no that isn't possible. That can't be possible, because no one is supposed to see that. That's his secret - the one he's supposed to take to his grave - the one he's literally killed people over before because they saw that horrid thing—
He doesn't have his weapon on him. He doesn't carry it around the base. He's grown far too complacent here, thinking that the only threats here were from Eggman and his robots.
...And yet.
It's hard to forget last week, when Void Archives witnessed another portion of his past - one that was never meant to see the light of day either, twisted and corrupted as it was. And now Void Archives knows the conclusion to that story.
(Because it's not like anything else that came after that matters, now does it?)
It takes a moment for Yeager to remember to breathe. His free hand has found its way to his chest, as it almost always does whenever this topic comes up. He grips the damn blastia beneath the cravat tightly for a moment before forcing himself to let go.]
...I would prefer it if you would forget that.
[So at least one of us can.]
no subject
[ In all honesty, that's just the truth. Their nature makes it impossible. Not to mention though they could convey the sentiment, would the nagging feeling truly go away? That they would have never forgotten? Would it truly, earnestly satisfy Yeager? At a time like this, they wonder if those thoughts are far too strongly based in logic, because there can be an emotional aspect that may be satisfied, but...something less logical tells them that it isn't enough. Instinct? Though, they don't believe they have that, either. ]
As it is, I didn't necessarily come here to discuss it all with you in grand detail; especially since I doubt it is what you want. I already understand it is a heavy and unfortunate situation.
You see, isn't it clear that I've witnessed twice such personal moments? Your memories of precious moments or horrid ones in their entirety...
...Yes, the fact is, I came here to inform you. But, also to grant you an opportunity to know more about myself in exchange.
Because while I am quite curious about your events, and there are things that I do wish to ask - there is no point in pretending I am suddenly so blindly kind as to not be curious - is there not something far more important than one's curiosity? If I am to know about you, does it not make sense that you should know about myself as well?
[ They sigh, shaking their head, wondering about their own actions. They supposed they could have kept it to themselves; that they had such information as well, but instead they sought out Yeager. The last time...they could not even turn things around in a dreadful nightmare; they had no idea why they had gotten such a foolish idea into their own head. And now, this.
Perhaps something tangible about how distraught Yeager had been in such a memory...twice over...? Which reminds them— ]
...In addition, of what I witnessed then I will not have it be mentioned to anyone else. You have my silence. For what that is worth. And that, is something I can guarantee.
no subject
Strange, he hadn't thought Void Archives would be kind about this, while never actually being emotional about it. It's bad enough to have to relive his own emotional distress; he certainly doesn't want to deal with anyone else's over such events.
Yeager finally turns to look at Void Archives and though his expression is still somewhat blank, he looks thoughtful.]
Very well. I'll accept your silence, if you cannot forget it.
[As for the rest...]
I can't guarantee I'll be able to answer your questions. There's much I either don't know or... can't bear to think on. But I suppose I can humor you - an exchange of information is a suitable compromise, ja.
[It's strictly founded in logic and reasoning rather than emotion, and that's so much easier for him to focus on. It may be something of an apology on Void Archives' end, in that they now know far more about Yeager than they'd ever wanted to or needed to, but he's been curious about the yapping cube anyway, so this works out well enough. It's settled him more than he thought it would.]
Feel free to ask your questions.
no subject
It surprises them, too - but, this manner of kindness doesn't make them feel apprehensive. They observe the expression on Yeager's face momentarily, wondering and hoping that this time...well, they'll let that file away as they consider how to approach this.
Perhaps a bit methodically, but in a way, it may in fact be that they aren't exactly overly emotional that can help. Their own expression turns considering. ]
I do appreciate it, Yeager.
[ An acknowledgement where due. Though, first, they will grant him a better starting point for potential ammo on his own end. ]
Now, before I ask my own, I shall grant something for you to start with, so you are not blindly grasping in the dark. Obviously you heard myself state that I am inhuman - but rather than something organic I am, at heart, an inorganic being.
[ A purposeful pause, to allow that to sink in. And then, they turn their true attention towards the background of this. ]
As for myself, my first questions...that man, the Commandant, did he ever try to pursue you following all of that? Why was he so desperate? And, what did those little girls have to do with all of that, exactly? I witnessed their appearance at the end, alongside you, I believe. These are where my initial curiosities lie.
no subject
He did not. We met up again only somewhat recently, where he decided to make use of me to further his own plans. I was in no position to refuse.
[Not necessarily because of his past, but it would be a lie to say that it had nothing to do with it.]
I can't explain any of his motivations as I never asked him about any of them.
[He has no damn idea why Alexei brought him and Raven back. He doesn't want to stop and think about it. Thankfully, the last topic is easier and Yeager relaxes the tiniest bit.]
Those girls are Gauche and Droite. I adopted them around... eight years ago, perhaps? They're members of my guild.
[And also his daughters, he just rarely actually addresses them as such because It's Complicated (no it isn't).]
no subject
[ As for the rest, Void Archives finds themselves continuing to keep to that policy, thinking that there's certainly no other reason to ask much more on that topic in particular. The thing about witnessing the memory in particular is that they, for the most part, felt that it was quite straightforward.
In all honesty, they hadn't anticipated Yeager would have allowed questions in the first place, given that they believe there was an out in there. But, they're not about to make this all that painful. ]
...Are they now? Hm, well. Most people do end up having their own reasons for adopting children, and I'm sure you have no issues providing for them.
[ They seem to pause, to consider all of this, but then make a swift decision. ]
Well, it may surprise you Yeager, however I have decided that I have nothing else to ask as of now.
no subject
But Void Archives simply elects to leave it there, without any further questions, and after a moment of staring, Yeager laughs. It's a short, sharp laugh that has no humor at all in it; almost as though it's a more involuntary action than anything else.]
You have my thanks, then.
[For simply leaving at that, maybe. For not getting emotional about it. For not making him think any harder about it than he has to, perhaps.]
I'll admit I'm quite curious about you, you know. What exactly are you, if that isn't a too terribly rude thing to ask?
[It can be a little rude, of course!]
no subject
I am quite glad to have it.
[ As genuine as they can be! Incidentally, Yeager's spot of 'little' rudeness does invite a tiny chuckle from the blond, though. They don't seem offended - because they're not by far. ]
Oh, do not worry. I have quite the thick skin. [ Jocular tone in mind, but true. ] As for myself, I have explained to some that I am one thing or other. But, I shall grant you a little more.
I am the Void Archives—a Divine Key, a construct that contains a constantly updating database of the civilization of humanity. I am a fragment of PROMETHEUS.
I am an artificial device created by humanity, for the sake of their preservation. [ They said as much at least once or twice, though do add: ] And for the fight against "Honkai".
no subject
What is "Honkai"? A great threat facing humanity?
no subject
[ In fact, this is a good tie-in to something else. ]
...Do you recall when I told you about 'zombies' in my homeworld...?
This Honkai is able to cause such things. From those kinds of creatures, to the most ruthless of Honkai Beasts, and then Herrschers themselves. Then, there is Honkai Sickness. All originate from 'Honkai', which by itself exists to put an end to civilization.
[ Well, putting it in a very basic manner because it's true, though there are also various complexities to it. ]
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Put an end to civilization... Well, I can certainly see where that would be quite the problem.
[Sheesh. Good thing Terca Lumireis will never face a horrible threat beyond mortal comprehension.]
...Why did you decide to come here? Has Honkai been stopped?
[or did void archives just see a fuzzy little blue guy and go "lmao sure" because like. mood, dude.]
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Honkai is sealed, so it isn't exactly an active concern. Though, I was searching for a method to be rid of it in its entirety as I am bound by such a goal. [ due to their programming, which is annoying, but it's fine. ] Before all of this, I wasn't even in my original universe due to various circumstances.
Regardless, I came here because it is entirely possible that the threat could eventually come back to cause trouble for my homeworld.
[ Not out of saving this one due to the goodness of their heart. They're not nearly kind enough for that. ]
I'm sure you can understand such a motivation? I doubt you're the type to do this because you felt kind-hearted, exactly.
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[From the sound of it, it's more "preservation" than actively "saving people". There is a difference, however small, and Void Archives is the prime example of that. Their assertion gets a smirk from Yeager.]
Oh, certainly not. I was in a terrible position, and this was my last hope of saving myself.
[That's not what he would have called it at the start of all of this, but that's what it has turned into now.]
I'm not even slightly "heroic". But there are people I would rather not have to deal with this threat in my own world, so I'm willing to work with everyone to avoid such a fate. All I want at the end of this is to retain my freedom.
no subject
[ They absorb the knowledge thoroughly. They wonder what Yeager had thought of it all initially? But, then as he speaks, he mentions his ultimate goal and they're a little startled; maybe because it is something they resonate keenly with. But, of course he would say it after everything, right? That memory... ]
We have that in common, don't we? That is, deciding not to arrive here due to a sense of heroism, but for our personal benefit. [ For a moment their mind flashes back to Yeager's remarking on being unable to refuse. ] Also, I can't say I don't comprehend the desire to hold onto your freedom. There was a time where I sought it even more fiercely than before...
When I was not only restricted by purpose, but locked away. [ One of those still applies, but this— ] Yes, that's why...I too urgently wish for you to achieve that freedom you seek. Hold fast to that resolve, as the one responsible for trying to steal it away once more should be the one made to suffer, hm?