Glaze [Hilo 8]

<Combat
In attack each strength point is equivalent to (1)d100
Strength comprises toughness, weapon, and dexterity
Toughness is the nature of the mineral on the Mohs scale. Decimals are ignored. For example, if you have 6-6.5 in toughness, you take 6 points in strength stat.
Weapons add 0 to 3 strength points, selectable.
Dexterity adds 0 to 5 strength points, trainable.

There are effort dice which can be 1, 5, 10, 20 or whatever. They are rolled independently and the result is accumulated from left to right. When one of these dice is less than 40, it is considered a simple failure which is compensated with a point in dexterity. Die by die, when simple failures exceed dexterity and cannot be compensated, total failure occurs. During total failure the attacking gem will fracture on its own and its life points will be reduced by half.

Finally, there is a priority parameter that governs the effectiveness of attacks and ranged attacks. Where the comparison between dedicated dexterity points Attack and Defense, each added to toughness, provides 20% reductions for each differential point between the groups. And the comparison between dexterity points dedicated to Ranged Attack and Movement (In this case, without intervention of toughness) also provides 20% damage reductions for each differential point.

To find these dexterity points dedicated to Attack, Ranged Attack, Defense, and Movement (Ranged Defense), you must roll 4 dice with the gem's Dexterity value. Alternatively, you can manually assign the value for each die with a limit of usable points based on the value of (1.5 x Dexterity).

Roll as follows:
Joint Strength: roll 12d100
Effort: roll 30d100
Priority: A: roll 1d3 A2:roll 1d3 D:roll 1d3 D2:roll 1d3

Life points are determined by the size of the mineral and its refractive index. Naturally, all gems have approximately the same size, so the first value does not change. 1000.
Then, the refractive index multiplies this value and the result is the fracture resistance or life points in combat.

Combat methods that do not depend on hand-to-hand or sword fighting will be explained in individual posts. Outside of combat, toughness is also key when interacting with others. If two minerals touch carelessly and have different toughnesses, it is possible for the mineral with lower toughness to crack, scratch, or break.

>>122824
I don't think she hates me either.
>She shrugged. There wasn't much to say about her relationship with Hawkeye, as she herself had told her before. If she had had her in front of her, she would have thanked her for helping her, even if she had done it under the orders of the crust leader and wouldn't have minded receiving those thanks.
Isn't that good? If you are Peridotite's representative, you should give a faithful representation of her.
>Although she heard better and didn't risk hitting anyone with her hair, she still had the habit of pushing it aside with her hand when someone spoke to her. That's why now it looked like she was showing it off instead of uncovering her ear.
Won't I look less childish now? Heh...?
>She didn't understand the reason for Peridot's comment or the other gem's, so she just smiled. She could agree that she wasn't subtle with the last thing she said, but the reaction she received was not what she expected.
>She would have argued in favor of rebellion and personal change before seeing Peridot leave, if she had known better the relationship between the different forms of Peridotite and other beings like her, or if she could do something like that without feeling minimally hypocritical. She just let her go.
Helio, you're shining a more natural color today.
>Although many would surely prefer the more subdued color of Heliolite, she didn't feel it was as good or as comfortable for her to maintain it, so it was good to see her back to her normal self.

>>122825
We had guides to those places, if they had wanted us to explode, we would have, but there was no danger. (...) I couldn't say I've tried to commit such destructive crimes before, without any other motive.
>She scratched her chin as she said the last part, looking at the ground with an expression of concentration, as if trying to recall past rebellions and measure their scale of destruction.
Everyone needs something to keep them busy and fill the years. Even if there are more useful things to do, I don't think it's that bad... I think it wasn't pragmatism but cowardice that kept me from connecting more deeply with my surroundings to avoid suffering. Love, pain, hate, and all those emotions are what fill life. I would be stronger if I endured the suffering when it came instead of avoiding it or running from it.
>She spoke, at first confident in what she was saying, then doubting if this was the right conversation to express that point of view.
I wasted a lot of time not truly living by closing myself off to those emotions, just doing things to pass the time until I could feel again in the future... B-but maybe this wasn't the time to be emotional again.
>She let herself be carried away willingly by Hecatolita, after letting herself be carried away by her emotions and speaking out of turn until she was embarrassed.
>She still believed that everyone should live the present in the way they could best enjoy it, both rebellious humans and overworked gems, but probably butting into that conversation to monologue wasn't the way, even though she had been waiting to say that in front of a certain gem.
If you talk like that, you're going to make me feel less young... Am I not going through enough punishment?
>She put her hands on her cheeks, accentuating her embarrassment for two different reasons, one more feigned than the other.
They're nice decorations, I didn't have things like that when I lived on the surface. I spent very little time in my room to want to fill it with things, I was a young and pretty very active gem, now I'm just young and pretty.
>She flattered Hecatolita's awards in her own way, accidentally getting carried away again with nostalgic comments that wouldn't help her deny the claims of old age with which she attacked herself.
Oh. I know that thing called food is like something organic beings eat on the surface. There were also gems there who studied those beings.
>She raised a finger and intervened, taking on the role of the naive gem that Hecatolita wanted her to be, to say what she knew about food before going down to the crust.
I asked one of them to teach me certain rituals of those animals but she never did... although I could still ask someone else to teach me.
>She commented, somewhat disappointed by the things she couldn't do, before having an interesting idea and turning to look at the room where she could still hear the other two gems talking with a glint in their eyes.
>It was nice to know that both gems had found a conversation partner in each other, she almost didn't want to interrupt them again with her jokes or speeches, but Hecatolita didn't have much tact and brought them back there.
>She got carried away again, as she was getting used to doing lately, and sat down next to the other gem recently rescued from the surface to be presented with that culinary taste she hadn't yet acquired.
>Truthfully, it was a bit accurate to compare her to a newborn, with how curious she was about some things and how it made her feel to see her experience others for the first time. It was like the pride of seeing Dumor or Onyx do a task well for the first time.
Hmhm~. Is it really that good? Ok, let me try... Aaah~.
>She couldn't help but smile seeing how she savored that dish and the pleasure with which she commented on it, until she had an idea and, closing her eyes and opening her mouth, asked her to give her a spoonful with her own hands.

>>122829

>After handing the lost fragment to Green Diamond and helping her up, Taaffeite turned around
>She walked to where she had been digging and began to rummage, pretending she had forgotten something
>She wasn't the least bit interested in hearing about Pink Diamond's tastes
>However, since Green Diamond had already started talking, she preferred to ignore her rather than interrupt her
>Showing interest in the enemy is the same as sympathizing with them
>The only thing Taaffeite cares about regarding these is how to avoid them
>Any other information is completely irrelevant to her

Bort? Bort isn't here! She has no say in this situation. It's us who...

>Her head suddenly turned as soon as she heard the name of one of her components
>The idea that one of the fallen gems would befriend the cortex seemed most unpleasant to her
>She was so offended that she abandoned her false search, stood up, and with a displeased expression, walked towards Green Diamond
>With her face in front of hers, she emphasized the obvious: Bort was destroyed
>Even if she thought as she says, she is no longer here to decide
>It was up to them alone to decide what to do with Pink Diamond and the cortex

I'm sorry... I shouldn't say things like that. I got too upset, please just forget it.

>Regaining her composure, Taaffeite realized what she was doing
>She shook her head, brought her hands to her head to avoid looking at Green Diamond, and then turned away
>Regretful, she apologized to her and then left without looking back
>Green Diamond already has too much to think about regarding her apprentice
>Taking it out on her like this won't help her at all
>It's better if she just leaves her alone before she gets upset again

I can't walk so much at night anymore, it would be nice if you carried me

>When Betelgeuse's light still illuminated, it was much easier to stay up late
>Although even if it were, Taaffeite would still have the same problem
>Her nighttime fatigue is a product of lack of habit rather than a matter of illumination
>It's been a while since she bothered to do nighttime patrols
>The mere thought of having to walk at night makes her sleepy
>Having to stretch her arms to relieve the fatigue

You know how hard it is to do that Respi. Do your best and endure, okay?

>Before she could congratulate Pink Spinel on a job well done, she was interrupted by Padparadscha, who lifted her into the air
>Stopping Padparadscha isn't a very complicated task, but since the one she's hugging is her apprentice, she preferred not to act
>Pink Spinel is one of the most experienced gems in that regard and also the best at avoiding being broken
>Meaning Taaffeite had no reason to worry excessively
>Shrugging, she left her to her own devices and let Padparadscha do what she had to

>>122830

That's enough, Parasch, you can continue Respi's punishment in private. I understand your intentions, Respi, but I agree with Parasch. A pyroclast is not something you should carry around carelessly. Mari is a smart gem, surely she took it directly to Tanzanite. Are there no more of these, or are there?

>Like Padparadscha, Taaffeite also had the instinct to destroy the pyroclast upon seeing it
>Since the former acted faster than her, she had no choice but to watch
>If not for the presence of other gems, she would have also limited herself to just observing Rose Spinel's punishment
>However, since her apprentices were present, she asked Padparadscha to stop or continue elsewhere
>After tapping Padparadscha twice on the shoulder, she turned towards Rose Spinel
>At first, she was understanding towards her and her ideas
>Although her attitude soon changed when she asked about more of these pyroclasts
>It's one thing to capture them and take them directly to Tanzanite, but having a whole collection of them is too dangerous

You have nothing to fear, everything is fine. Better than fine, actually.

>Turning towards her apprentices, she crouched down to their level
>She placed both hands on their shoulders and motioned for Garnet to lower her sword
>As strange as the situation was, it didn't warrant going on the defensive
>Throughout the conversation, Taaffeite had noticed several signs indicating an improvement in Padparadscha's condition
>But it wasn't until now, when she took the time to look at her properly, that she could finally recognize her complete recovery
>Then welcoming her with a big smile

So you remember you have to take me to see the sunrise, right? Now that you're not dazed, you might have lost a bit of practice, let me remind you how it's done. (...) We didn't do anything that you and the others couldn't do, in a way, our success is also your success. There's nothing to condemn you for, instead, I can only congratulate you on your recovery. Be careful and don't push yourself too hard, okay?

>Happy about Padparadscha's recovery, Taaffeite approached her and jumped on top of her
>She caught her in a strong and sudden hug that caused them both to fall to the ground
>The games finished, she stood up, also helping Padparadscha
>With a less big, but still happy smile, she congratulated her both for her previous work and for her recovery
>Also knowing the type of gem Padparadscha is, she saw it necessary to warn her not to rush into battle
>She would still need some extra time before she could be considered fit for that

>>2317
OP, here's Amber... So you did finally send me the shift you said you'd give me? I waited so long for it that I started getting spiderwebs kek...

>>2318
Yes, I sent it. (>>119482) But don't respond AYYY
Between this and the previous chapter it's outdated and no longer canon. Basically the main gem of that turn Cornalina, will be doing something completely different in the turns of Leucozafiro and wouldn't have reasons to act as I put in your turn. In narrative terms it would be like robbing a bank that had already dissolved all its reserves.

I'm writing now. It will take me some days to come up with an idea, but I can send you something completely new. Do you commit to roleplaying 3 or 4 turns before you die? If so, I can send you something that directly appeals to your character's base.

>>2319
>you commit

Yeah, but I waited so long, or I didn't even see the post you sent kek, that in the end I ended up lol-dying thinking you had abandoned me...

I liked the story I made for the Ambers and their human/gem duality... I don't know if with the time skip you'll let them fuse directly with others. I'd like to see the final stretch and be part of the destruction of the gem empire and the end of the cycle of suffering and resurrection >:3

>>122827
You're not useless. You're the most important gem in the research center. You're indispensable—no one else can do this work, which is why they gave it to you.
>Or maybe neither Cornaline nor Peridotite wants to do it, though she can't imagine either of them doing it better, lacking any information about how good they actually are as researchers during their experiments.
>These kinds of tests seemed unpleasant to her too, the first two or ten times she'd seen them, but by the third or eleventh time they'd lost all impact—mostly because they only tickled Argilite anyway. At this point, she felt no more empathy watching the invader shatter than when she herself scattered Tara's or multiple ashes' bodies.
If she came from space, it makes sense she'd withstand so many things. There are extremely hot stars up there and high-pressure places where diamonds rain. I guess bubbles wouldn't affect her much either, even if she doesn't like water.
>Judging by the direction of the tests, they seemed to only be looking for a way to destroy space-born gems like Argilite, or to develop and test new types of weapons on her.
>In case of a hostile invasion, something like that could be useful, but the gem currently invading them was very peaceful, and her intentions were clear enough that she couldn't be seen as a threat—just like Gardan Siti didn't see her that way either.
Hey! Maybe I didn't like water either before, but that was a long time ago. I know how to bathe now.
>She crossed her arms at the implication, faking only a little indignation while letting the researcher examine whatever was under her clothes or tucked in her folds, as she pleased.
>When she'd first started appreciating water, she used to jump into the lake fully clothed, just like Chrysocolla did, but she'd left that habit behind on the surface after a few years. Washing her clothes, though, was still a somewhat strange concept to her, so she could partly understand Hawk Eye's fixation on cleanliness.
You're not arriving at a bad time—Hawk Eye was just about to show me how to bathe. I'm sure there's room for three or four.
>She stuck her tongue out just a few centimeters. Making jokes at Hawk Eye's expense was justified if she offended her first, even if she'd been right about not having cleaned every single speck of dust from her clothes—the kind of speck only she and other gems with special eyes could see.

>>122828
Those are reasonable and honest goals. I have no problem with them.
>She imitated Argilite's peace sign with her hands so Argilite could see how it looked when she made that pose, occasionally snipping her two fingers together like scissors to add her own personal touch.
>She trusted that the gem’s goals were indeed what she had claimed. Few gems were born liars, and the short time she’d spent interacting with her and Carnelian shouldn’t have been enough to infect her with those skills yet, though she had already picked up on some of her attempts to deceive.
Hm, yeah, the planet is very watery. Not much to explore above. It's disappointing, isn't it?
>She opened her arms wide to receive the filthy bath Argilita would inevitably give her when her body crashed into hers. She understood how hard it would be to accept the nature of this world for someone who wanted to see it so badly, just as she had in her even younger days. The right thing was for both of them to comfort each other, as fellow explorer comrades.
There are still places with land on Earth, though there's so much water they should probably rename it—I get the confusion.
>She nodded, enthusiastically agreeing with Argilita’s feelings and squeezing her eyes tightly shut in solidarity with the other Team Earth member.
I imagine millions of you would be very cramped even if they took up all that space.
>When she opened her eyes again, it was as if they were still closed.
What?
>She tried several times to pry her eyelids open to see more clearly the unnatural light in the distance, not understanding what was happening.
I hear something...
>She limited herself to answering just one of the questions the voice had asked, granting the favor of not getting too worked up—she wasn’t in any state to say or do much.
As strong as other corundums, I suppose. If you already know what mineral I’m made of, can you tell me the name of yours?
>The position she was in brought back very distant memories. Though the situation wasn’t a hundred percent the same as what was happening now, the vibe it gave her wasn’t much better. Luckily or unluckily, she didn’t have a weapon this time.
From where I’m lying down, it doesn’t seem like everything’s wonderfully fine—maybe you could explain to me a bit what you mean by that. I’ve never been the kind of gem who stays still for long, but acting without thinking and without understanding what’s going on can make things even less fine.
>And holding back her feelings for too long goes against her new philosophy, so she hopes they won’t keep her waiting long before letting her do something brash.

>>122942
If nearly all the images I found of this leukocyte weren't porn, it could easily be another appearance for Sapphire, though I don't like the design that much either.

>>2315
>Unlike Peridotite, Peridot is a gem who can't sleep peacefully after a crisis. Although it's not confirmed whether Peridotite sleeps at all. You know very little about the functions of her body. Even though she has a morphology similar to yours, she actually hides most of her body in the surrounding area. Sylvite does too, in one way or another. Fortunately, the Crust is usually very dark, so the metal constantly blends into the environment. She, on the other hand, can't hide her reaction when she hears you. Sylvite rushed to speak, almost interrupting you.
(Sylvite) No! I think it's fine— If you get excited, for better or worse, even in a terrible situation. (...) When I woke up a few centuries ago, my consciousness fragmented like a parallel-processing computer. Even with limited information, I kept searching for a solution to the gem and human problem, over and over and over again. I suffered repeatedly, to the point that even now I think if I feel pain again, I wouldn't know whether it's real or fake. But that's only limited to pain.
>Just because she's been compressed into a fragile material, removing useless or broken parts, doesn't mean she's erased her memories of her transformation. You have a psychological perspective on what happened to her that only compares to her physical changes, which also camouflage properly even indoors. Isolation is a way to make gems become unstable, and curiously it was also a method used by Fluorite, with gems like Benitoite, to generate new vessels. Amplifying love for certain gems and dichotomizing it into deep hatred. Sylvite in a neutral state seems almost miraculous. After explaining, she adds with a slight smile.
(Sylvite) No simulation can fool my sense of feeling full and content. And I feel full and content, even arguing senselessly. If I tried to distinguish whether it's false or true, if I tried to hide it or ignore it, or if I worried about the thousands of humans or dozens of gems I might be hurting, all of that… would be a futile effort, unnecessary suffering. So I won't let you imitate me, Leucozaphire.
(Hecatolite) Is that how it is for exotic gems…? My sister Heliolite is always in a bad mood! She doesn't complicate things. If she doesn't think too much, she's angry; if she thinks enough, she's completely annoyed. It's like she's on her gem days all the time.
(Heliolita) That's definitely true.
>Hecatolita tilted her head like an owl, attentive to Silvita's words, though she didn't understand them. She immediately analogized, drawing attention again. Though she did it affectionately, the image being formed of Heliolita didn't seem quite appropriate. Silvita's reaction, however, was positive, accepting the joke. Some humans retain physiological functions, vestiges of their former animal bodies. It's far more complicated for a gem to physically express changes of that sort, but apparently Heliolita has managed it. It's not exactly exciting. (...) Hecatolita kept assaulting you with her unusual enthusiasm, all in an attempt to connect with you—even forcibly. She paused for a second, then, spotting an opening, tried to refute you. In the process, she accidentally confessed.
(Hecatolita) Mmm, I said I'd try my hardest. So I was hoping you'd try something similar too, Blanco. But now it turns out you're lying! It's impossible that you've always been young, cute, perfect, and shiny. Are you sure you never developed any particular quirks? All young gems have had strange behaviors at some point. I-I even spy on Imperial Topaz or my sister once in a while. Stop keeping secrets!
(Heliolita) The surface gems…? I don't trust them. Sele told me they're so curious they wouldn't hesitate to "feed" by tasting humans. Or even by directly eating parts of other gems.
(Hecatolita) Oh, that's a clue.
>Your response about animal dietary needs caused a certain disgust in Heliolita. As gems of the Mantle, their understanding of surface gem customs is nonexistent. Especially when the very notion is tainted by rumors from someone as important as the leader of her first-type human family. It's true that some strange gems might try to experiment on or eat humans upon reaching the Mantle, Tanzanite, but replacing parts of oneself with those from other gems isn't taboo. In that case, your body would entirely become the result of a crime. Thus, after analyzing each of your words, Hecatolita grew more confident about your hidden thoughts. (...) Although she watches you expectantly, Silvita is slow to react. She continues praising the food, closing and reopening her eyes only to finally notice, reining in her excitement.
(Silvita) I'm telling you, it's true! At first it might seem a bit sticky. But I just figured it out. Thanks to the difference between ambient temperature and the gem interior, the texture changes completely. It's the sweetest thing! Nothing you've ever tasted is as delicious— (...) … You take advantage of my promise to act as your sister. But it's not something that bothers me.
>She calmly rephrased her joy, tucking a strand of hair back into place. Then Silvita took her spoon and brought ice cream to your mouth, using her opposite hand as a platform several centimeters below. She responded shyly, but quickly turned to look at you again, searching for your reaction. The whole time, she seemed actively eager for you to get a little messy—so she could clean it up. She even commented directly on it, complaining that it hypothetically hadn’t happened, though it clearly didn’t.
(Silvita) So? You might not look it, but I was afraid you'd grab the whole ice cream with your hands and dump it on yourself like tea. You're hopeless! In that case, I'd be the only one enjoying Hecatolita's food.
(Heliolita) I'm surprised you're not screaming, offering, or complaining because you can't imitate something similar with me.
(Hecatolita) I'm not worried. Unlike you, sister, I'm not an indecent gem.
>The orange gem turned to look at her blue sister, who was acting with a coldness so unnatural for her. Apparently, Hecatolita had been watching the interaction with Silvita closely. Feeling discreet jealousy, she finally managed to label her sister Heliolita with a clear adjective. Hecatolita dropped the games and raised both hands to announce. Returning to her carefree, violently energetic demeanor, she revealed a secret dynamic she'd prepared for her visit.
(Hecatolita) Now it's time for the main event! The only reason I became a food gem… was to host the very first Hecatolita Olympics! If Peridot were here, I'd force her to broadcast this to all the humans on the Crust… This is… Object or Cake! With Hecatolita. Can you guess, White Diamond? How about you, Silvita?
>Curiously, Peridot has survived several explosive kidnapping attempts by humans. Even if forced to broadcast, it's clear Hecatolita's rebel power wouldn't be enough. This is an unusual activity among humans, who barely have the means to produce desserts, let alone the strength to cut them. Hecatolita raises them to give a tour of the kitchen, which was starting to feel suspicious. As Hecatolita prepares a sharp knife, Heliolita provides context about her sister's new hobby. Silvita appears completely consumed by the dynamic.
(Heliolita) She's been preparing this for a week. The amount of toxic materials entering our room has been enough for Imperial Topaz to launch a smuggling investigation. But she didn't misuse them. The variety of desserts she's hidden scales beyond 10. I'm surprised you didn't find a cake the moment you walked in.
(Silvita) Are there really that many? There aren't that many sword styles. Hecatolite must be a genius gem. And where—
(Hecatolite) First test—this chair will be either object or cake. Let's find out!
>Cutting from a solid, thick backrest, Hecatolite slid the knife down to the base, revealing an interior similar to hardened pudding. The flavor of the earlier ice cream attacked the surface of your mouth directly, making the chemical reactions more noticeable as they spread, though losing duration time. The type of sweet in this object was different—much more uniform. Despite its strange appearance, the metallic chair didn't look very appetizing when Hecatolite placed it on a plate for both of them. Still, Silvita once again felt enchanted—this time with her eyes closed.
(Hecatolite) It was cake! How is that possible? It must be undiscovered technology! Impossible gem magic!
[Peridotite] Diamond White! Today I went to the spa. You can't believe how horrible that place is. Packed with superficial gems. None treated me with the cruelty of a rebel. Though the organic elements they placed on my mineral were refreshing. Would you like to accompany me on your day off? (...) By the way... we're in an emergency. Tell me, how much do you love Dumortierite? Would you get angry if I destroyed her? She's become a danger.
(Hecatolite) Now we'll test with a special object! My sister Heliolite. What do you say, Silvita? Is she cake?
>You started receiving several messages you couldn't ignore. Directly mandatory spam from Peridotite about her travels or experiences. She'd stop doing it frequently whenever you showed reluctance to follow her orders or disapproved of her plans. Hecatolite continued with her little game, bringing the knife close to Heliolite's head. Peridotite asked directly, making her previous messages serve only as lengthy filler. Heliolite didn't feel comfortable with something so sharp near her—she tried to move away, but encouraged by Silvita, when Hecatolite cut, a layer of mineral broke off, revealing a small, sweet orange chamber. Hecatolite handed the missing piece of her head to her sister while Silvita watched with deep curiosity.
(Heliolita) Why are you asking that? H-how could there even be a chance she's cake?
(Silvita) It's cake! It's cake! One with an intense, bold flavor. Did I guess right?
(Hecatolite) Indeed, my sister Heliolite is cake. Her head is full of sweet thoughts.

>>2316
>The rough treatment of Spinel led to her choice of companion being a gem with a retort as sharp as Aquamarine's. For Padparadscha, it's a neutral outcome rather than a favorable one, but, still dazed, she believed Aquamarine's ability was immense, so she never objected like Heliodor did. When her apprentice left, Padparadscha had much less to think about. As if the pressure that Rose initially put on her with her carelessness and the pyroclast incident was what woke her up. She gave you a certain answer.
(Padparadscha) Of course, I remember, it's not like they replaced my parts. Although there are a few dozen silly promises I'm going to have to cancel. Didn't you stop the gems that took advantage of me? Or is it that you-
>Fortunately, Tanzanite stayed far enough away from Padparadscha, for her own good, during or after the daze. In a way, it was Topaz's leadership that stopped them. Before Padparadscha burdens you, she falls unprepared. She couldn't help it, due to her slowness. She rarely failed, so she didn't even have the reflexes to close her eyes or block with her arms. On the contrary, she responded with a hug and a warning. Finally affectionately stroking the back of your head while she looked for something to say. Because she had been dazed until very recently, she still felt extremely soft.
(Padparadscha) Child, you are much heavier now. You would destroy most gems if you lunged at them like this. Didn't you realize...? Taaffeite, my child… Um… I. Listen… Enough. This is too embarrassing.
(Garnet) Hmmm.
(Phenacite) The floor was completely slippery! An android came and vomited everything, I saw it.
>Her voice changed, between the sweet tone she used when dazed and her usual centered demeanor. She rubbed her cheek against your hair, this action being the most sincere and secure given her unfamiliarity with displays of affection. In that way, she finally became rough again and pushed you off, placing you to the side on the cold floor. Seen from the outside, to Garnet, your apprentice, it looked like a kind of rejection. She was the only gem who widely doubted Padparadscha, due to her bad reputation for shattering gems. Phenacite, on the other hand, didn't take too long to understand what had happened and, following Padparadscha's words, downplayed the situation with a quick story. This diverted Garnet's attention, but not Padparadscha's, who no longer had the obligation to explain herself to the young gems. After taking your hand, standing again, Padparadscha responded directly, rejecting your words of courtesy.
(Padparadscha) Taaffeite, don't be naive. Even I know I'm the reason they postponed the conflict for so many years. Even if I didn't understand them at the time, I remember their words clearly. Gems get stunned between a thousand or two thousand years, don't they? I was barely 1600 years old, it's a disappointment that it happened to me so soon. Just look at me, I'm a mess. How can I walk around the Academy dressed like this? (...) I'm old enough now to also know that not everything revolves around me. So you don't have to worry.
>Showing frustration, feeling increasingly uncomfortable with her own mineral, Padparadscha checked her body, finding herself in a complicated outfit. She immediately began to untie her hair while trying to decipher the grip points Rutile had left on her suit. As she undressed, partially, Padparadscha spoke to you a little more discreetly thanks to her voice being interrupted by the fabric. Although she gave hints of feeling the same, she didn't seem to intend to revive the state of instability she exposed herself to you a long time ago. (...) With her arms free, still strong, despite the low training, she took each of your apprentices by the opposite arm and lifted them into the air. She acted proudly as Bixbite and Garnet escaped several centimeters from the ground. Bixbite yielded, while Garnet tried to break free.
(Padparadscha) Ha, so this is the duo I'll have to train for the next few decades? You're serious about me not pushing myself too hard, right, Taaffeite? Alright, when the holidays are over I'll make sure to be a mineral terror again. They might have some talent.
(Bixbite) Master, are you finally... abandoning us? Is that why you looked so happy. "They'll never be my apprentices again!! Now I'll cuddle with the flowers 3 times a day" Is that what you were thinking?
(Padparadscha) Silence. With me, you'll learn to use your intelligence correctly, little manipulator.
>Feigning vulnerability, Bixbite told you while rubbing her eyes with her free forearm. She even imitated your voice to make you seem like an insensitive gem who cared more about nature, which is partly slightly true. Garnet didn't achieve much struggling with Padparadscha's strength, even when she was being distracted by Bixbite. The black gem then remained still, observing her null options until she was released. Padparadscha let go of Garnet only to tell Bixbite with more impetus, whom she immediately released as well. (...) Bixbite rejoined you, while Garnet kept watching Padparadscha's actions. She, for her part, closed her eyes for several seconds. Touching her neck with a couple of her fingers, she showed symptoms of intense pain, as annoying as the previous one. She made sure to say.
(Padparadscha) Hmmgr… Ugh… I, I'm still not at 100% - I don't intend to be too harsh… I'll just try not to waste time like happened with Spinel.
(Garnet) I disagree! Maybe my master won't accompany me for a while, but because of that, I'll train twice as hard, like a double gem. I-I won't accept zero harshness!

>>2316
(Garnet) I'll train illegally, with illegal gems, and when I get caught, Padparadsch will help me escape—!!
(Padparadscha) You turned out to be another peculiar gem too. Seems I've got quite a bit of work to do. For now, you two have fun with the others and don't cause trouble.

>As soon as Padparadscha tried to step back, Garnet moved closer to stop her. She exclaimed, already envisioning an even more intense training session for herself. Although you already knew about her tendencies, hearing her words seemed to put Padparadscha at ease. She made a quick assessment, then crossed her arms and finally dismissed your apprentices. Given the 50-year limit, your apprentices had been previously informed about the end of their training with another gem. Though they still had doubts about who it would be, it was especially important they knew Padparadscha was authorized to train them before fully meeting her. It seems to have made an impression on both, so the transition isn't going badly. (...) When Padparadsch and Garnet left, Padparadscha approached you directly, accessories in hand. Her pink eyes sparkled with confidence.
(Padparadscha) I want you to know I'm proud of you, Taaffeite. You know, if I'm not careful, I might mistake you for Sapphire, my master... I say that because you're an excellent combat gem, no—an excellent gem altogether. Your actions have always spoken for you, and now all the gems who trust you, even me. (...) That said, tell me, I can use your room to spend the night, right?

>Though she lost sight of you for a moment, Padparadscha didn't need to strain herself to be sincere. As your former partner, she didn't need unnecessary detours to get her message across. That's when you saw Garnet returning, picking up the practice sword she'd left on the ground. Though startled, she withdrew unnoticed by Padparadscha, whose perception was low. Padparadscha's request initially seemed like something she'd ask while still dazed, but it soon became clear.
(Padparadscha) I need to discuss Purple Topaz's plans with you before moving forward. Between the secrets you know and various other dilemmas... I'll use my lingering dazed state as an excuse to gather information. Anyway, isolating myself for so long wasn't a good idea. But I know Alloclase will take care of giving that building a new purpose.
(...)

>With Padparadscha nearly back to her full self, even the task of assisting Purple Topaz could lighten up. After all, she was the one who used to bring Fluorite back to reason whenever her management went off track. Especially today, you can relax thanks to the steadily increasing humidity. Mist covers nearly the entire island, but what would normally be a bad omen actually means two things: the absence or weakening of pyroclasts, and Tara's possibility of manifesting on land. Before the old bell, you can directly witness the latter—a humanoid figure continuously gathering water droplets that crystallize and generate rainbow illusions.
(Red Diamond) Welcome to Crystal Earth!! Congratulations, congratulations!
(Grossular) Welcome, Tara.
>Grossularia stands beside you, carrying a load with Hortensia half-open. Red Diamond, on the other hand, broke protocol and approached the Tara in formation, even though it could be bad for both. For a gem to absorb water is different from just being sprinkled. Especially harmful for a diamond that barely reacted to silica. Fortunately, neither was harmed in the process, and in a few minutes, you had Tara perfectly formed before you, playing with the colors and surface of her watery body to imitate the resin that characterizes them. She did it unconsciously. What she directly reacts to is your presence, as a social being. She continues to express herself strangely.
(Tara) Oh! And who are you all? I can barely recognize you! This is wonderful! My perception of time has completely atrophied, which means these welcoming moments last an eternity. And that is a gift. In these kinds of situations, Avalok would say something like: "It will rain on the deserts and no gem will ever know the sun's shine again." Or something like that.
(Grossularia) It's only been a few years since your last visit, we're identical. About your outfit-
(Tara) Hahaha! Let the festival begin!
(Grossularia) It will begin shortly. But listen to me... Rutile made clothes for you, she mentioned that maybe you could imitate them.
>Grossularia was direct with her welcome, but soon Tara got distracted with herself and exclaimed. Tara's manifestation on Earth Crystal is followed in the sky by a giant cloud with a similar shape to her, which reacts much slower to her expressions. When she was no longer interrupted, one by one, Grossularia handed dress after dress to her android assistant. The designs, incredibly, were nothing out of the ordinary. But that sameness was enough for Tara to get flustered based on her very careless sense of fashion. It's the only thing that doesn't seem like it will evolve over the centuries.
(Tara) Will this type of outfit flatter my figure? How daring! Gems are truly crazy about beauty. Fortunately, I am a malleable being. As long as I feel like a thick, cute, and kind existence, I will be.
(Red Diamond) Tara, Tara, Tara, Tara, Tara, Rat, Rat!
(Tara) Oh, you're that special diamond with memory problems. Wait. Was that offensive? S-shall the festival begin?
(Red Diamond) Hmrrr.
>Red broke the rules again and put a scarf similar to the one Tara always wears around her neck. She then called her carelessly, continuously, until her words stopped making sense. Incredibly, Tara took more than 5 seconds to pay attention to her, and when she did, it was careless. Red Diamond's smile blurred into a small growl of annoyance, but she immediately changed her expression to one of great need. The diamond began to recount, all to gain the favor of Tara, who didn't know how to react. Red continuously took over the narrative of the conversation, painting Tara as some kind of deity, making sense of how she hailed her upon her appearance. She then, with a brazen attitude, asked the continental entity almost with pleas and demands.
(Red Diamond) I... I have to confess something to you, Tara... When I was little, until a few years ago... I thought you didn't exist! I thought you were a myth! And that what I saw was nothing more than an illusion! L-like the gems I convinced to wear invisible clothes. But not anymore... Now I believe in you!!
(Tara) E-e-eh. Um... For a long time, I didn't believe in myself. So, the fact that you believe in me must be a very good thing! Right...?
(Red Diamond) Yes. It's because I believe in you that I know you grant wishes! And if you've been reading the letters I gave to Uranophane, you'll know what my greatest wish is. I want that, here and now. Did you bring it with you? Give it to me! It doesn't matter that Taaffeite is watching!!

>>122831

How do you say? Ummm... I guess it's because of how I show my emotions... and... does that make others want to express theirs too? (...) It would be good for Heliodor to fall in love... How about we polish and shine you up a bit for her? Only if you're willing to reciprocate, of course.

> In the middle of her reading, Fluorite lets out a phrase that completely distracts Taaffeite.
> Rutilo feeling attached to her? The way she said it sounded completely like she was referring to THE Rutilo.
> Stunned, she slams the book down and leans back, looking at Fluorite with a bewildered expression.
> She must have been very lost in her reading to hear such madness.
> She shook her head to clear her head of those strange imaginings and put it aside.
> She had already been told about her "ability" to be liked by others.
> In her time, she didn't know what to say about it, and she still doesn't know what to say now.
> With her face hidden behind the book, she does her best to come up with an answer.
> Although her insecurity when speaking makes it clear that she doesn't quite believe it herself.
> Apart from her sister, she doesn't remember Heliodor having any love interests.
> If what Fluorite says is true, then it's worth trying to make her more beautiful for her.
> Only if she's interested and feels the same way, if not, then it's best to forget about it.

Trying hard is fine and all, but it's not good to push yourself too hard... Don't try any of that, okay? As long as they get enough rest, I'll support both of them.

> A look of discomfort crossed Taaffeite's face during the conversation.
> Fluorite pushing herself to the extreme is something she would prefer to avoid.
> She still remembers all the commotion she caused when the crust attacked.
> She doesn't want to see her cause another inclusion imbalance by accident.
> Despite that fear, she still supports her in both her possible romance with Heliodor and her plans for the festival.
> Likewise, she also urges Sphna, who has just arrived, to give her best.

>>122832

Topaz? I can take you to her. (...) If you're only interested in watching me fight, I can give you some private combat lessons, but... Taking you to fight without the permission of the others would seem very irresponsible to me, it's not especially safe out there, you know?
>She closed her book, got up from her seat, and prepared to assist Esfena
>However, her departure was halted by a strange request from Fluorite
>Setting aside the fact that it's Fluorite and all the importance she holds
>That request is not one she would simply agree to
>Not when Fluorite completely lacks any combat experience
>Or rather, she has no memory of it, since Taaffeita knows about her ability to absorb pyroclasts
>In any case, if she were to do it, she would still need to inform the others
>She highly doubts anyone will agree with that decision
>Which is why Taaffeita seeks to convince Fluorite to back down

I see, I guess that makes you a gem-mage. You're a young gem, no need to get lost in fantasies. You'll soon find something to shine at too.

>Thanks to Tara's stories, Taaffeita has a greater understanding of magic
>Enough to allow herself to joke around a bit with a very bad pun
>As long as it's about children's games like these, she doesn't mind
>Still, she ends up warning Esfena not to get too involved in those topics
>After the collision, she placed her hands on Esfena to help her maintain balance
>Keeping one hand on her shoulder while observing the android

Oh, Topur, it's you! (...) Call me Taaffeita and correct that attitude.

>She let go of Esfena upon seeing that the android was just playing along with Purple Topaz's joke
>She didn't pay attention to him until he spoke to her
>Seeing him then with a face that wasn't angry, but rather displeased
>She didn't like hearing androids call her by a nickname
>Especially coming from Pity, who has been behaving unethically for a long time
>They should increase his re-education time to fix him once and for all
>Ignoring the android again, Taaffeita turned towards Purple Topaz with a smile and then followed her

If you need me, I'll accompany you.

>>2323

Oh... it looked so good on you... You're going to hurt Tilo's feelings if you keep treating clothes so roughly.

>Actually, Rutilo might be happy to have the opportunity to make a new outfit for Padparadscha.
>Still, Taaffeita can't help but watch heartbroken as all the decorations fall to the floor.
>Now standing, she began to pick up the ribbons and other items that Padparadscha was throwing, and then gave them to her.
>As she did this, her gaze drifted to Phos and her strange story.
>Her perplexed face non-verbally asked if everything was alright.
>If she didn't receive a response, she would assume it was and move on.

Ena, of course not... I'll do it 5 times! (...) You're very out of practice, Paradsch, one in good condition like you would never have been surprised by an attack like that before. Maybe I should be the one to train you this time, juju, you'd better be attentive because from now on I plan to launch several surprise attacks like that throughout the day.

>She showed a pained expression at her apprentice's assumptions.
>Only to correct her instantly with a sparkling gaze and a short laugh.
>She doesn't plan to laze around any longer than necessary, but there's no harm in joking like this.
>Waving her hand downwards, she indicated to Padparadscha to leave both young gems on the floor.
>Training with such an inexperienced pair is a good way to get Padparadscha back to her former glory.
>Although besides that, Taaffeita had another idea which she soon revealed.
>With both hands above her head, she warned Padparadscha to be aware of her surroundings from now on.
>She took a step forward, lunging in a quick embrace where she only held air.
>That was a fake attack, but starting tomorrow she'll begin with the real ones.

>>2324

Paradsch is a great teacher, they'll be fine under her care. Don't worry, I'll come by every so often to see how everything is going.

>Putting aside her joking attitude, Taaffeita addressed her apprentices in a more appropriate tone.
>She crouched down to their level, affectionately stroking their hair.
>The respectful tone with which she referred to Padparadscha made clear the trust she had in her.
>Hoping to pass on some of that respect, Taaffeita stood up.
>Telling her then, that she will continue to watch over them and their proper growth

Thanks, it means a lot coming from you. A sleepover? Of course, I'd love to! There's so much to catch you up on.

>Ashamed, she lowered her gaze with her hands clasped
>With her eyes still on the ground, she managed to spot Garnet, who had returned
>She waved her hand discreetly so Padparadscha wouldn't notice, asking her to leave
>Good old Garnet obeys, and soon they are alone again
>It is then that Taaffeite raises her head, excited by the request she had just received
>Padparadscha rarely joins these kinds of social activities, she had to take advantage of this opportunity
>When night falls, Taaffeite will tell her about hundreds of mundane things related to the academy and the rest
>The crust's attack and the like, something she would mention very briefly and get distracted from easily
>She might even end up inviting Purple Topaz to spend the night with them

Tara! Long time no see! You're right, it's been ages, my gem has even stopped shining. At this rate, I won't be considered a gem by your next visit.

>Just like Red Diamond, Taaffeite also broke her initial stance
>Only in her case, it was a few steps further
>She was never very good at respecting personal space
>So at every festival, she ended up doing the same thing
>Playing with Tara's perception of time, Taaffeite released silica as it formed
>Its color was rather blackish and it slowly slid down her more illuminated areas
>Thus creating the illusion that her hair had lost its color

Tilo made so many designs. What do you think of this one? Your figure will be greatly enhanced by something like this.

>She got rid of the silica and then headed towards the clothes Hortensia was wearing
>She rummaged through the different fabrics until she found the one she was looking for
>Moving closer to Tara, she showed her a garment quite similar to the one Ruby wears
>With darker colors and slightly looser, although she only showed her the top part
>She didn't get a chance to show her the matching pants due to Red Diamond's request

What are you talking about? It's not what I think it is, is it?

>>2322
I can't say I truly understand it because I haven't gone through it myself, but I can't imagine it's good. I wouldn't wish something like that on others.
>Her face was revealed to show a more dejected expression. She had said before that she didn't like discovering Peridotite had experimented on her sister, but then she let her true emotions show for even briefer moments.
But I'm glad you're here now. I assume you'll agree you're better off this way.
>She didn't say more than that so as not to make it explicit that among the others she wouldn't wish suffering similar to her sister's were also included several kinds of humans, so as not to discuss that topic further. Somehow she had already managed to get the gem to admit that living fully was better than waiting for eternity in isolation until the day of final salvation, so she let herself be taken away from the table with a smile no lighter than hers.
There's no room in such a short conversation to reveal all the jokes, mischief, misdeeds, and acts of rebellion I secretly committed when I was your age... Although I think by your age I was already here on the surface. Time is annoying most of the time.
>The topics of conversation were replaced one after another too quickly to get stuck on one, there would never be time to recount her past as a delinquent gem under those circumstances, nor did she have the impression that Hecatolita wished to hear them so much, being the one who moved fastest from one topic to another or from one place to another.
-aaaah~.
>She continued vocalizing with her mouth open until her sister understood that she should put ice cream in that hole, she only managed to open one eye after her wait was prolonged, and she didn't open the other until her wish was granted.
Precisely because you expected me to do that, I wasn't going to, it wouldn't surprise you. The reaction isn't as strong when you do something for the second time, that's why trying new things is so exciting. Like this ice cream!
>She took the ice cream in her hands, but not as her sister said, but by the container, and lifted it over her head to proclaim it as a new good experience, moving it back and forth as she gave aloud praise
Highly stimulating experiences are the best! Feeling something for the first time is amazing! Exciting! It makes me feel like there are too many things to discover in the world and that it's worth living to feel them! In short, it tastes good.
>She carefully placed the ice cream on the table after abruptly ending her speech and sitting down again, smiling. Her sister reminding her of those tea parties only gave her more encouragement to try to imitate her past self, although she felt strange demanding her voice reach such high volumes again.
Did you specifically choose gems who have no experience with food to do this? I don't know if that's cruel or kind.
>She wasn't going to complain about being fed poison disguised as sweets, even if they were at a disadvantage in the game due to their inexperience. The only way to gain experience was by experimenting, and her sister was in the mood for it.
Well, I've never tasted a chair to make a comparison, but I don't think they're anywhere near as sweet as these desserts.
>Instead of matching the hostess's energy and enthusiasm, she adopted a cautious and analytical attitude when giving her verdict, seriously treating her participation in the game as if she cared a lot about winning.
[I wish I could love her more than I do, as she's the closest thing I have to a disciple, but we had a very serious incident to forget.]
>She was so focused on the contest that she almost amicably accepted Peridot's invitation, but she realized her mistake before making it and deleted what she had written to respond only to the important part of the message. She would rather invest her free time in gems she liked more.
[I wouldn't break knowing you destroyed her nor would you have to suspect I'd betray you for it, if you already thought it necessary to do so. But I'd like to know why or how you came to that conclusion, since you're asking for my opinion.]
>It seemed suspicious to her that such a serious emergency would arise that the crust leader would be forced to act in such a way, but not so drastic that she would simply act on her own without asking for her opinion or consent, assuming she hadn't already destroyed Dumortierite and was asking her what she thought of it after the fact.
>Honestly, it would lift a weight off her shoulders if someone else got rid of Dumortierite without her having to get involved or continue avoiding her, but no longer having her in the crust could overload a different gem with her salvation tasks.
>She also felt slightly conflicted if the destruction of Dumor were put in her hands, mostly because of what others would think of her for letting the gem be destroyed. It was these concerns that made her remember the cakes and turn to her sister and the other two, confused by what was unfolding while she was distracted.
Huh...? Doesn't this look too much like what they said they didn't like about surface gems?
>She wasn't enthusiastic about seeing one sister decapitate the other and eat her, so she missed the chance to guess before her own sister had already given her answer. She didn't hide how surprised she was by Hecatolita's revelation any better.
Hm... Excuse me. I might have something important to tell you later, though I don't know if I should make it your problem.
>She turned to her sister to whisper part of the internal conflict she was going through, not wanting to ruin her happiness of eating cake by telling her about problems she didn't need to be involved in, nor did she want to spoil the game by being distracted by her messaging device. Either way, it wasn't the time to share those messages, as she still lacked context.

>>2320
Ambar
>133 days have passed since their last combat evaluation with the objective of becoming infiltrator gems, moving from the Crust to the Surface. They are currently at the home of the Gypseida family, a first-type human family unit composed of Gops, the human leading the mission, Gips, the human who acts as a doctor for gems, and Gidc, who trains them. Naturally, due to their nature as gems, eliminating any human is not difficult, as none of them pose a threat. God, however, was a tough nut to crack due to his chimera companion who aided him in everything; he remains alive. Gem society within the Crust is weakened, for various reasons. But as long as the program continues, that giant Spectrolite—whose natural talent, what makes her a great helper, remains unknown or perhaps nonexistent—is still assigned to you. Before you is a cylindrical object, moldable in appearance, with three glowing rods protruding from its surface.
(New) Happy birthday, happy birthday! Happy birthdays to you!
(Gops) Birthday...
(Gidc) Happy birthday!
(Spectrolite) Amber, Amiel, Amory...!!! Happy birthday!!!
>The human New, who sings with the most enthusiasm, is a worker from the Research Center who lately has been constantly following Gops. Apparently, the human carries a dangerous object they continuously refer to as Eye, a human capable of destroying gems. It is sealed. Following that meddlesome white human, Gops and Gips also celebrate, one more engaged than the other. Only Spectrolite maintains a warm smile from beginning to end, bringing the dessert close to their faces so they can blow out the lights. She then pulls it away herself, citing non-consumption.
(Spectrolite) Oh no, no, no! That can't be eaten. Hecatolite mentioned "decoration," only "decoration." Truthfully, I would've preferred a cake full of branches and sap...
(Gidc) Well?? What did you wish for? A ultimate weapon? That's probably what Amber would choose, to end it all! But Amiel would wish to see her mother again, right? I can still fulfill Amory's wish by being an excellent human companion and bodyguard.
(Gops) You will fail defending gems. Continue your work defending us, your other selves, please.
>The work of eliminating humans is repetitive, but it doesn't require extra help. Gid, even as a tutor, is still nosy enough to lean over the cake and ask. She has a lot of confidence in herself, which isn't bad, but because of it she is easily countered by Gops who is the most focused. Behind the humans who immediately rushed to the end of your birthday, was New who tried to steal a piece of cake only to realize it was fake. Still in pain, she approached Spectrolite who had decided to start cleaning, as she usually does.
(New) I find it unbelievable, it's completely unbelievable that an ancient gem like Spectrolite is in front of me. They forced all gems over 10,000 years old to disable themselves. How is it possible that you are complete, Spectrolite? You are above the law...! That's great!
(Spectrolite) I... Um... Ugh... Well... Imperial Topaz said that the possibility of Fluorite possessing a gem like me was completely nil. He said I was clumsy and stupid, all while losing an arm...
(New) I made her that new limb with two screens and half a bomb. Hawk's Eye trusts my gem assistance technology!
>The human approaches Spectrolite with curiosity, who can only hesitate before telling the truth. Because the Surface and Fluorite are their enemies, they have to take measures regarding their newly registered capabilities. That total control over inclusions guarantees overwriting their personality over any ancient gem, especially those with great control of silica and are complete, only made the old normality of the Crust Court gems fall apart. Spectrolite explains, and according to what is known, and since Fluorite prefers to possess intelligent bodies, Spectrolite is easily discarded as a candidate. Practically the reforms did not affect her at all. Due to her slight admiration for gems, New does not end up forming an opinion, she only adds regarding her participation as a researcher. The human owner of the house gathers them all again, only to continue with the strange ritual.
(Gops) It's time for everyone here to present their gifts, the meeting will end.
(Gidc) Hahahahaha! Isn't it clear? My perfect gift for a trio of inexperienced gems is deep experience. Combat experience! You've won self-defense classes with your Aunt Egidice. Rejoice!
(New) My gift is private. Strangers can't see it, especially Gops. So I need a minute with you three.
(...)
>Gips is not at home due to how busy she is with the new administration. That's why you can use her private resting area to view the screen that New provided. She explained that it was material that had remained in the Research center for thousands of years. That's more than enough time for a gem or a human to change completely. But as soon as the image clears, you can see one of them, firmly presenting a concept, until they fail at a designation and the recording starts again.
(-) Liberation by assimilation. Fluorite has the ability to combine with other gems to prolong its life. If the gems lost on the surface could assimilate humans to end eternity, our sentence would be reduced by at least a couple of million years. That's why- Lost gems? No. Gems in an advanced evolutionary stage? Ah... Again. (...) Liberation by assimilation.
>The process to eliminate the plague of hundreds of billions of humans on the Crust consists of capturing gems from the surface with high emotional stimulus to eliminate them one by one. However, it seems the human on screen proposes a reverse process, slightly more effective. They cannot complete their explanation because between the video glitches and the various background noises, evidence of high technology, the recording is paralyzed indefinitely. It's not until a young gem appears on camera that the human speaks again after a long wait. You can recognize the gem present as Hawk's Eye, who currently possesses this center. Naturally, she has always been completely direct with her objectives. She only, as Hawk's Eye called it, responds by providing information about Sele.
(Hawk's Eye) Sele, you are exceptional. Tell me where I can find another human like you. I will kidnap them.
(Solo) It doesn't exist, no. You probably can't work with her. (...) Selcalis is the name of the human group that freed the moon hundreds of thousands of years ago. The Selcalis family always splits into two parts, and as long as one part exists, it will try to replicate the same feat, or an even greater one.
(Hawkeye) I didn't ask for that information.
>The gem turns halfway and retreats from the shot. Then the recording cuts to switch to another date immediately. This time, the human Solo in protective gear is next to an Emeth android unit. After showing a count of hundreds of thousands of humans inside the android, Solo lets a small ash form in the robot's mouth.
(Solo) Liberation by assimilation. Souls fit for assimilation were stored in partially active, fragmented, rapid expulsion objects. Codename, Pyroclastics. Today, Amber visits the Crust to interact with a pyroclast for the first- (...) Today, Amber is not in the mood to appear on camera.
>The pyroclast crawls along the ground, in one direction. And as Solo follows the creature with the camera in hand, all can see a very short shot of its mother, Amber, the original gem that seemed to share the same time as that first pyroclastic creation. However, before it is fully focused, both the camera and the pyroclast are immediately knocked down. Seconds later, an image of the ash dust resulting from the small explosion is seen. The footage would continue, but, back in the hall, a brief emergency can be heard. Visualizing the silhouette of a white gem approaching in the distance, ascending the Subcrust levels one by one, Spectrolite is fooled by the quick identification, stolen or lent by Carnelian. It is Gidc who is the first to come out and threaten the gem given its intrusion.
(Spectrolite) Carnelian? You're a bit late to the party. But as long as you bring a gift, you can enter. Carnelian? This... Who is it?
(New) But if it's little Onyx. Uh... It hasn't been more than a year since I saw her at the Research Center.
(Gidc) Hey, you. If you take one more step, I'll attack you with my human power. Did you hear? What's dangerous about me isn't my attitude, but my discipline.

>>2321
>Her grip is like being dragged under quicksand. The consistency of her body is so low, it feels like it molds to you the moment you push against her. Her strength is low, almost nil, making you seem like an immobile object, even more stoic than you normally would be during contact. You can see Argilite's face distort as she rubs it against your arm, but only for an instant. Because that's when her veil of fragmented silica lowers and hides her transfiguration. Imperial Topaz is quite pleased with the result, she even opens her arms waiting for Argilite to split in two and come at her. Although it's evident she won't, as she is the source of the bad news. Even though Argilite's material is anything but hard, you can feel a certain discomfort in her touch. As if the inclusions in her crystalline cells were completely exposed, to the point where they could interact with yours. Hawk's Eye remained on the sidelines, until now.
(Hawk's Eye) A long time ago, third-type humans cultivated inclusions in the lower layers of the Crust, doing so with the goal of enduring pain and gaining humanity. It was designated as a bad practice because it increased the chances of their existence splitting in two. It has been recorded that gems on the surface do something similar. More than just "earth," I imagine it would be much simpler to use already active inclusions to "reproduce." You will not only consume the fragile and flimsy soils, but also the gems that were on them, regardless of whether they are fragile and flimsy or not.
(Imperial Topaz) You compensate for your low expressiveness with long speeches. Are you jealous?
(Hawk's Eye) What I'm saying is... that White Diamond might be being altered right now to generate hundreds of Argilites. Enough.
>One of the reasons there is a giant cloud of pink vapor condensing and reforming in the vast spaces under the Crust's ceiling is because, otherwise, humans increase their population. Naturally, Peridotite eliminated and prohibited the ways humans can interact with their inclusions so that their release would not last millions of extra years. After explaining about what seems to be the mechanism Argilite uses to clone herself, Imperial Topaz questions Hawk's Eye. The latter is very serious all the time, but now she is annoyed. Not only because checking you a moment ago was useless, but because Topaz is inferring about her true feelings, probably. Argilite detaches from you like chewing gum, literally, as her material was starting to become adhesive due to the temperature. She nods her head, up and down, to deny. Argilite elaborates on her objectives, and with her hands clasped, she confesses with her eyes closed.
(Argilite) No. It's true that I plan to take over the planet when they least expect it and that's why the fact that there's so much water makes me depressed and suicidal. But I couldn't infect any gems on this planet, and that's... Because I'm happily married! All of you are very rude to me.
(Imperial Topaz) Does that mean you're in a relationship with yourself? Answer honestly, it's for gossip purposes.
(Argilite) Not really.
(Imperial Topaz) Is it a custom from your world? We still need information. We've explained the composition of our planet to you, but you haven't described yours to us.
>Gips mentioned that type of ritual before, when she tried to pair her brother with his new friend. Naturally, human customs are something you learned very little about, as it falls under the framework of human liberation before gem liberation. A gem as old as Imperial Topaz is capable of grasping it immediately, she corresponds to Argilite's explanation and tries to get more information out of her. Turning in her own position, Argilite makes them wait several seconds while she expresses her happiness. On her own screen, Hawkeye resigned herself to quarantining this command center. Argilite proceeded to explain truthfully, regarding the population capacity of her planet, or planets, and also regarding her nature as a replicating being. The existence of these massively numerous beings outside the system proves something Avalok told you a long time ago. Argilite began to describe her wife, and according to her description, it also made sense why she favored you so much, it's normal.
(Argilite) There are many, actually. Beings like gems always end up developing radio frequency systems. I can't tell you about my home planet, because I don't know which one it is. But I can tell you how the clay population is distributed, after we capture a planet. Depending on the size of the habitable land, our population ranges from 100 billion to 10 trillion clay beings. Of two types, Argilite and Siltite. For every Siltite, there are 999 other Argilites who act as their spouses. A Siltite is always more beautiful, smarter, white, cute, and kind. They are especially delicate and since they make up a very small statistical group, they are also considered high class. In a way, White Diamond reminds me a lot of a Siltite.

>>2330
(Imperial Topaz) White Diamond? Listen, Kyanite. Believe it or not, she's not a diamond, she's a corundum. And as a corundum, she spent a lot of time living on the surface. Ha, I'd understand if you mistook me or Hawk's Eye for high-class gems.
(Kyanite) You're a rebel gem, and you're a nerd. Both can be high-class, but neither can fake being high-class. After all, Limonite is the most feminine gem among 18 systems, but she's still clay.
>With zero tact, Imperial Topaz shattered your image of an elegant and perfect gem. After all, from the perspective of the Crust's gems, you still have the qualities of a foreigner. With some confusion, Kyanite divided her gaze, observing each of them. She didn't need to evaluate them thoroughly to point at each and describe them in the simplest way. And the same for you. Kyanite approached once more, devotedly taking one of your hands and asking aloud. Although she now only has the guarantee of a test subject, she had a hunch that she was capable of achieving it.
(Kyanite) Corundum, don't you want to become a conqueror? I wish there were more gems like you for me. In exchange for a favor, you could become a Limonite and travel the stars. Of course, that would mean I'd have to share my secret about how to physically invade radio waves. But to be honest, I've cheated a bit... Androids are so easy to approach. It's not my fault they're so vulnerable.
(...)
>Both the heat and pressure you can't feel are not good indicators. Likewise, the strong light emission from a single horizon obstructs your recognition. Observing from afar seems impossible, and at first, up close too. But soon you realize that you can see not only your coating in worn and melted synthetic resin, but also your interior. The internal tension faces that will break first when you shatter. Likewise, you can see the divisions where your padparadscha becomes leucosapphire and the ruby becomes padparadscha, even if you don't have an adequate viewpoint. You can distinguish the shape and mass of the gem accompanying you, being almost as large as Padparadscha, only incomplete. Her voice is not low, but rather resonates directly at the points of contact with your mineral. She recounts with serenity.
(-) The sunlight was intense. The clouds were too high and cut across each other, leaving a holey pattern in the sky. Chrysoberyl was dealing with too much stress due to her research, but that day she was calm. Ametrine had made huge advances with her sword, and with herself. Always, after every training session, she would rest beside me, quietly repeating how much she hated giving up. That otherwise she would become a criminal. She was so expressive, that always alarmed Alexandrite. At that moment, she had suffered a great attack and couldn't fight. I'm so glad she lost her desire to protect the others, at least for a few hours.
>You do not fully remember your stay in the Crystal Earth and that is due to the overwhelming amount of time you spent in the Crust. Or that would be the usual explanation for your memory gaps. However, it is now simple to confirm another theory. Regarding the weight of memories and how they hide in the deepest parts. Because you do not have half of your body connected to you, it is clear where your memories descended. It would be easier to recognize the origin of the gem you have with you, if she did not recount with names you barely heard at the time. The self-regeneration phenomenon of gems is still active and you can experience it. So little by little, as pieces of you join together on their own, you might finally recognize this gem as one of the most important or the most important combat gem of the ancient era. Before Ruby assisted Padparadscha as the strongest gem. She, broken and without a visible face, as it is faceted, repeats as if trying to believe it. Other pieces of sapphire approach, dragging the black dust from the ground, different from you and her. Still immobile, Sapphire conditions herself, accepting a guilt you barely understand.
(Sapphire) Everything is fine. Ametrine was able to reconcile with her sister, and my other apprentice, Alexandrite, was able to live without regrets, even until now. And you, you will be able to walk again and see again, because I will make sure of it. Even if that means... accepting myself partially, and my twisted way of seeing things. (...) I feel... like the origin of your problems.
(...)
>Thanks to the inclusions, not only voices, but also matter can be sent, or reconstructed in certain places. You know all too well what it means to communicate solely using broken androids or enemy spheres. And also, the objects that Uranocircite took when she left. Betraying Peridotite to start an even more massive task, not as a savior of humans, but as a condemner of planets, was a possibility even if you have to cooperate with an existence as strange as Argilite's. The liquid that sustains the bathing areas for gems in the Crust is a type of integral, transparent, and partially harmless base that does not volatilize even with the high temperature. It is more refined fuel than the Aphoidea family distributes. Not far from you, the figure of a gem is lost in the water, slightly distant. But also, paying attention to you. At first, the bathing proposal seemed like nothing more than a joke. But Argilite's great contamination was alarming. Because the clay cannot be alone without supervision, Imperial Topaz rejected the offer and remained in the specialized rooms of the center. After asking, Hawk's Eye began to diligently wash its limbs, as if it were easier that way to expose its point.
(Hawk's Eye) Well? What did you tell her? I hope you understand that infecting the internal workings of androids means becoming something even weaker than a pyroclast. Besides, you wouldn't even be "traveling" in reality, Argilite is confusing that process with "copying". Maybe she doesn't intend to lie to you, but it's a fact that you can't fully trust her.

>>2325
>Fluorite, the previous one, used to spend a lot of time around older gems, like Yellow Diamond or Padparadscha. For Axinite's Fluorite, it's different—she connects more easily with younger gems. It's obvious, since sometimes she seems to mimic the gestures of Sphene, who's standing right beside her. Repeating them over and over as if her life depended on it, only to lose determination in her voice minutes later and confirm in a calmer tone. Seeing that the option of fighting by your side, or watching you fight, isn't yielding results, she finally releases her true opinion. Although what she told you wasn't particularly complimentary, Fluorite seems to view you as similar to Purple Topaz and her hunger for popularity. She confesses.
(Fluorite) I know, of course I know! Um... I... It seems it didn't work. You're very vain, Taaffeite. You need to break the habit of being praised so much. That's my advice. And if I have to be honest... Well, I asked Heliodor the same question and got an even stronger rejection. Seems I'll never get a chance to show what I'm worth, really.
>Naturally, the possibility of Fluorite winning Heliodor's affection seems nil, since it's Heliodor who's constantly trying to influence others' opinions to either use her or at least silence her for several years. It's not that Heliodor has something against Fluorite personally, but against her gem nature—transmissible and unnervingly human. That Fluorite keeps mentioning Heliodor seems to be part of an attempt to confuse you. And she succeeds, because she quickly dismisses her brief discouragement and immediately starts plotting, just like she organized the festival in only a few minutes. She repositions herself as a leader, but not the passive type you knew, and starts joking. In the end, when she needs to tell you the truth, she merely flicks her gaze sideways and downward. After you leave, she won't take long to clean up and put away the book you were reading.
(Fluorite) But precisely because of that, I've devised a plan to become the combat leader of the entire island, the greatest strategist—and it all started just minutes ago. Only then, once I have control, could I punish you by sending you into the most difficult battles. Or I could order Heliodor to deeply love me. (...) That's a joke! I wouldn't do that...
(...)
>Maybe it's Fluorite's influence, but Sphene's magic spells are incredibly harmless. And even if they were harmful to the garden or animals, it's clear Purple Topaz would take measures, just as she does with Uranophane. Sphene, on her part, as an indoor gem, rarely leaves the Academy. Though, you haven't seen her show any intention to explore. Probably both Ruby and Chrysocolla did their job scaring her, intentionally or accidentally. But this is how gem nature has adapted to android ease and Tara's presence, which tend to inject bits of sedentary human culture. A gem like Purple Topaz, who in her youth was incredibly careless and adventurous, obviously has her doubts. Sphene went chasing after a strand of aluminum owned by Black Spinel. Purple Topaz acted as always—around a young gem, incredibly affectionate. But in front of you, she appeared far more reflective.
(Purple Topaz) I'm still worried about the fact that she doesn't have a stable job. She can't be the gem who just spends so much time in the tower for no reason, or the one you'd ask about the time, the weather, or pyroclast appearances. Even Esphene started accepting it as part of her personality. It's easy to notice just by paying attention to her outfit. Or am I wrong? She always intends to help. I can't look down on her.
(Little Pity) Physically, Esphene has developed a lot. She's not the tallest or the sturdiest gem, but she still keeps a certain youthful charm—
(Purple Topaz) Oh, what you said is true.
>Although it's Axinite, Fluorite is the one who keeps making the clocks. Esphene treats it as part of her duty, since staying in the white tower makes her constantly aware of the time of day. Little Pity, the android, adds to the conversation, only for Topaz Purple to deliver a hit that snaps his two-part head shut into one piece. A second later, Purple Topaz admits it was a reflex and agrees with the opinion. Now you can see why the android reform wasn't fully completed. The gem shard Topaz received in her hands from Esphene was Anthophyllite's. Although she had a habit of overworking herself and thus breaking apart, Purple Topaz still showed great interest in the matter. The first place they headed to was the winter room, where the android, upon seeing the other gem fragments and dust, began vacuuming up the material. His skeletal body wrapped itself in a black mass—the same substance his clothes are made of. Incredibly, everything is in order, and only this scattered material seems out of place in the room. Once the work began and ended, Purple Topaz remained by the door. And only when Pity was ready to leave did she close her eyes and speak up.
(Purple Topaz) I'm not a perfect gem. I'm constantly filled with doubts and worries. I'm sure you've noticed that clearly during our meetings. And when it comes to Fluorite... I always have the feeling I might regret having taken her so lightly for so long... But... Right now, I know I have your support, Taaffeite. So I'll shamelessly use you to find out whether I'm right or wrong. I hope you don't mind me being blunt from the start.
(...)
>The hardness of your hands is 10, due to the presence of diamond-like material, however, the hardness of the crystals covering the windows is only 6 to 7. There was no way some of them wouldn't crack the moment you tried to put them back in place. In any case, covering up the recent mess is easy, especially considering how terrible Ruby's room looks. A hole the size of a bookshelf has opened from a nearby wall, revealing a view of the calm sky, shining brightly and soothingly.

>>2332
>Fortunately, the Academy doesn't have such structural flaws that could bring down the entire structure just from devastation in a single room. Ruby, being the free-spirited and selfish gem she claims to be, has turned out especially problematic for interior gems. But incredibly, it doesn't seem she has bad relations with any of them. Chunks of ceiling and wall still fall, some getting tangled in the accessory Purple Topaz wears on her head. Antophyllite, in the center of the room and in contrast to the fragments previously found of her, appears incredibly bright, well-polished, and above all, immaculate. The cause of this opening in the red Corundum's room is easily deducible as unregulated practice of generating a reaction strong enough to launch a rocket.
(Antophyllite) It was impressive! Finally, proof that gems can fly, using a proper explosive charge. But… although impressive, it's also a terrible problem! I had already repaired Ruby's room before, left it so immaculate… My expression went from this to this in an instant. But then it returned to this because there's no way I could ever be cruel to Ruby.
>With her tools in hand, Antophyllite adjusts the edges of her mouth to simulate happiness, astonishment, and sadness. Naturally, only she could use a hammer to shape her expressions while finishing on paper the remodeling of Ruby's room. Those working—one placing new pieces, the other removing debris and destruction—are you and Purple Topaz respectively. Just over an hour ago, she was circling around some matter you were unaware of. When suddenly mentioning Fluorite, she left it open to interpretation that Fluorite was involved in Antophyllite's unstable state, unintentionally or accidentally. Since the only existing solution for Purple to clear her suspicions and become a full leader again was to spend the day together, it also became an excuse to exceptionally draw near each one of her tasks. Purple Topaz doesn't like laborer work, but apparently, in Antophyllite's eyes, this was appropriate. Sometimes she gets distracted watching them, waiting for the right moment to correct their physical labor. Antophyllite checked the blocks meant to replace those broken or missing in the wall. Though identical, according to Antophylltite, a certain lightness seems necessary.
(Antophyllite) Oh, you're doing it wrong, Taaffeite. You must leave spaces between the large silica blocks. If compacted too much, it tends to fracture on its own. Even gems like us have interstitial spaces in our crystal cells.
(Purple Topaz) You know, Antophyllite? It's about time another gem is born. I've been thinking that if she wants to fight, I could place her under Taaffeite's care again. I'm sure I can exploit Taaffeite for many more years. But if the new gem wanted to work indoors, I'm not sure whether making her your apprentice would be too much pressure on you.
(Antophyllite) You're doing it even worse, Purple!
>According to Pink Diamond, the reason for a decrease in the waiting period for a gem to appear is the Crust's need to create a varied catalog of gems for Fluorite to choose for assimilation. Likewise, since pyroclast attacks are now much easier to counter, it seems to have no impact at all that there will be more gems in the future. The Crust will have to devise a new way to capture them, and for that capture to have an impact on others. Predicting a seismic movement originating from a new gem, Purple Topaz speaks about the possibility of Anatase becoming a teacher. As expected, the only seismic movement is the one Purple Topaz seems to have generated with her careless way of further destroying the wall, creating more debris in a vicious cycle. After pointing at Purple Topaz, Anatase returned to her work with the blueprints, lowering her voice to a level strange for her. Anatase responded sincerely.
(Anatase) That… I… I would definitely take her as my apprentice. I can't be capricious. I know I'm a realistic gem. So waiting for an Anatase or a Kunzite to be born would be asking too much. I'd get old, and what my teacher Aragonite hated most was getting out of shape. Throw me the first gem you want to educate! I want to train someone, in fact, I think I need it.
(Purple Topaz) …
>Anatase looks up from the papers on the floor, she also stands up, and you can see her adjust her clothes with feigned care. It's old, the outfit Rutile gave her is from a long time ago, but she seems to be wearing it for the first time. She doesn't give the impression of being a gem who works all day, every day. Except that, Anatase wouldn't take more than an hour to redesign an already known design on a simple wall. What Anatase is picking up one by one are various buildings to be constructed immediately. She finished planning the new additions to the Academy for the festival, in addition to those she already built. Both because of her animated response and her imminent readiness to build tirelessly, Purple Topaz watched her in silence. Looking at her sideways, Anatase anticipated Púrpura and stole her intentions. She began to count on her fingers, predicting each of the events that would happen if they both stayed to repair Ruby's room instead of Anatase. Púrpura's hair briefly covered her face, she pushed it aside to agree with her, starting her hurried request. Anatase immediately crossed her arms, and highlighted her gem work by responding with a big smile but a weak refusal to the leader.
(Anatase) I know what you're going to say now, my leader. You want me to rest, so you'll stay here repairing this room. However, you'll do it so badly that gem after gem will come and it will become a more pleasant place. Red Diamond will arrive last and start a tantrum. Even Ruby will threaten to explode everything again to reproduce the fun.
(Purple Topaz) In fact, yes. I need you to meet with Chrysoberyl as soon as possible, I sent Little Pity with her.
(Anatase) I won't accept it! Do you know how much work it takes to organize the whole festival? And I'm not talking about Fluorite sending requests during winter. I'm talking about real work, that requires real effort.
(Purple Topaz) Please. I'll fix everything.

>>2326
>Leucozaphire experienced it firsthand, but many years later, both you and Purple Topaz, along with all the foreign gems who arrived on the island, noticed it too. Tara, in truth, is a voyeur. Someone who creates hundreds of versions of herself in the clouds, where water, ice, and vapor are all Tara—and thus her own "mineral." The reality behind this is that Tara essentially exists naked, and what she creates is merely an extension of her skin to cover herself. The fact that she covers herself in dozens of soft colors is only to mislead the gems traveling with her, because in reality she's just another stalker on par with the androids. Or so Ruby once said regarding her experience traveling with her across various places. And right now, you can confirm it, because beneath her replica sleeves, there's no opening hiding anything—her interior and exterior are completely seamless. Her appearance may show how differently gems are from massive inclusion beings like her; perhaps even Peridotite hides other kinds of fetishes and secrets regarding her anatomy. For now, Tara is surprised.

(Tara) D-do gems who live in communities experience this kind of aging? It must be true—Taaffeite has never lied to me! So I have to accept it! Even if I don't want to... Do you need help walking? Or do you need help defecating? After all, gems now eat things... Taking care of an elderly gem is even harder than protecting the planet.

(Grossularia) I haven't eaten any of those things. But I know Taaffeite uses her hands to release silica. If I were to excrete anything, it'd be from that place... So you better not try to touch them—they're a private area.

>She firmly accepts the fact that you're now elderly and approaches immediately to assist you. You were lucky not to lean on her, otherwise you'd have collapsed to the ground due to her hardness level of 0. Thanks to her communication with the island, she's informed about the new customs among gems. Mimicking animal-like feeding behaviors more than she should, Tara lowers her gaze, preparing to act—then regrets it seconds later. Just in time, Tara doesn't begin constructing a room to place a toilet, because Grossularia takes charge and better interprets your method of emitting silica. And that's partially true, since emissions always came from your upper limbs—or at least that's how Alexandrite and Aragonite initially trained you. Both Tara and Grossularia now regard your arms with increased caution, but not Red Diamond; she even leans forward curiously to observe how you expel silica, algae, and various food remnants from Phenakite. When it's time to hand over your vision of fashion, Tara takes a step back. Instantly, she moves closer to grab it, as if already violating her low threshold for shame. At that moment, Red Diamond is faster, darting underneath and rising between the two of you, already pulling the blouse over herself. Once again, Red Diamond continues with her pleas.

(Tara) Is that for me? It's so daring... I'll show it to everyone! I'll start a new fashion trend.
(Red Diamond) Right away! (...) I dedicated prayers to you every night, Tara. Almost every night. I didn't communicate directly with you because... You have to admit it, your stories are boring! But anyway... What I hoped for from you...
(Tara) Um... I couldn't snatch that baby elephant's little tusk. It was actually too complicated. Its mother came and...
(Red Diamond) What I want is a boyfriend!
>You can confirm it, only Axinite could analyze all the strange and tangled mythology that Tara kept to tell human history with unverified facts. Now Axinite is Fluorite, and no gem patient, intelligent, and dedicated enough to corroborate the same facts has appeared yet. Although she is accused of something she should show anger about, for the moment Tara's attention is caught up in the promised gift. She takes the edges of her clothes, meaning her skin, and begins to make excuses. You can understand why Red Diamond was careful when saying she couldn't receive it in front of you, as it is completely against the principles of gems from the moment they are born. Between Red Diamond urging Tara to fight against large groups of elephants and the second one doing so, one cannot find who has the greater responsibility. This is how it is until suddenly Red Diamond interrupts Tara, with a final declaration. There are two types of reactions: Grossularia's, who, being unfamiliar with human culture, is surprised by the word and doesn't know how to react, and Tara's, who accepts innocently, until she realizes what Red Diamond is truly saying. With eyes closed and fists under her head, Red began to fidget anxiously, she delves deeper.
(Tara) Oh, sure... I-!
(Red Diamond) I thought you'd be able to solidify some ice and create a boyfriend for me. Even an intelligent, reformed, and good-looking pyroclast would have been enough, I'm not picky. The thing is, androids are mischievous, perverted, and pygmy. And I can't date one of my sisters! Are you crazy? Being a diamond means you're alone most of the time, so I need someone or something that is 100% dedicated to me. Of course, if you had brought a human who can withstand sunlight, I would be in some trouble. Or maybe not! Because I'm stronger than Taaffeite. I think even doing boyfriend stuff in front of her would be exciting, something forbidden, a taboo. A human is fine. After all, just as humans kidnap gems, maybe... Yes, that will be my goal! The truth is, I can't be any brighter! I love myself.
(...)
>It is unlikely, to say impossible, that Green Diamond will manage to capture a human to make him a boyfriend for her apprentice. Since her next mission is deep within the earth, where a civilization exists. It was mandatory to know how their society works. Red Diamond studied too much; this, her eccentricity, and also her youth are playing against her. For the moment, it was best for her to return with her teacher for the rest of the day, and so it happened, before Tara committed herself again to fulfill her wish. You needed to distract Tara with other activities, as she was highly impressionable, and if she stayed with the idea of a boyfriend, it would probably even trigger a series of unnecessary kidnappings. Grossularia managed to dress Tara, and once again you could see how her body shape perfectly adapts to what she desires.

>>2334
>The first place Tara wanted to visit upon arriving at the Academy was precisely the site where she could most easily contact her. The path to the communications building is set apart from the Academy to the southeast. There, the path ceases to be of flowers or even grass. Instead, there are fountains, small abstract sculptures, and animals. It must be this way because the gem that always lingers around this place is always covered in lead. Tara cannot distinguish Uranofano from a statue, although making statues out of gems is still frowned upon and it should be unlikely to mistake her.
(Tara) Uranofano, is that you…?
(Uranofano) Sitadel, you are my radio friend. I always miss your visits so much. Come here! Come here! Come here! You are the only being I can undo with my hands. I adore this feeling, and the one of having tea. Oh, would you make tea for me? From your blood!
(Tara) Oh. It's a bit strange- If you put it that way- But- Okay-
>Urano wasn't much help by staying still, but as soon as she saw Tara, she immediately approached. Even with her metallic heaviness, she tried to jump and react animatedly to her friend's presence. It is then that at one point Uranofano got too close and extended her arms. As if trying to catch her continuously, Uranofano kept vaporizing Tara's lower torso, which regenerated in a matter of seconds. With her hardness of 2, and since she respects animals even if they are weaker, Uranofano cannot feel physically strong against anyone other than the being with whom she has the most conversations. This game lasts for a couple of minutes until Uranofano proposes about the tea. Unlike the usual tea that Chrysoberyl, which Tara generates, is usually poured over, she can control it completely, change its intensity and brightness, and therefore, the way gems feel it poured over them. As they head inside the Communications building, you can witness Tara and Uranofano's conversation. It is Uranofano who includes you in the conversation by giving you good news, and it concerns the missing gems that Tara reported some time ago. It is the cloud itself that resolves the matter as it moves through the platinum interior of the place.
(Uranofano) Thanks to the fact that the matter of the missing gems is resolved, I have a lot of free time to talk with Tara. Although, that means my mother appears less regularly at the Communications center! It doesn't matter! It's a relief no matter how you look at it. Isn't that right, Aunt Taaffeite?
(Tara) Oh, you were a bit busy, Aunt Taaffeite, so I guess you don't know. But the answer to not knowing what's happening with the foreign gems I wasn't watching, was...! Gathering them all in a place I can watch. In a space large enough so they don't encounter each other. In a region so sunny, bright, and green that it's ideal for gems.
(Uranofano) It's not good that they can't see each other. I wish I could visit another Academy someday.
>Out of habit, Tara used the nickname Uranophane usually calls you. You can see Tara summarizing the problem by using part of her vapor, gathering a sufficiently dense cloud and placing small snowflakes one by one. It sounded like a feat worthy of a being who controls the seas and winds. Tara’s ability to abduct gems must have increased, because now she doesn’t just have 1 moon to capture what she desires, but 6. With a count of around 100 to 200 gems, Uranophane barely reacts to the scale of the project. Instead, she notices the loneliness these gems are subjected to, despite being so close. However, until progress is made within the Crust, it's impossible to make a big change without the enemy underground noticing and retaliating. Tara’s feat itself is quite risky, as it alerts the interior of the earth about the kind of power the ally of Crystal Earth possesses. Uranophane left behind the room she usually uses to communicate with Tara, along with all its notes and decorations, and also left behind the small special space Spinel had reserved that day. The Communications building seems to have expanded, most likely due to the recent work conducted by Anthophyllite. The place they entered, including the floor, ceiling, and columns lined up one behind another, resembled the old appearance of the Academy before it became hermetic. Tara asks, though it's better to simply summarize the destruction of the Academy—before the last destruction of the Academy—hinting that there may have been more.
(Tara) By the way, radio listener, I mean, radio friend. I-is there any reason the Communications Center is built this way? I thought they stopped using three-based pillars after the last destruction of the Academy.
(Uranophane) Oh, the classic style was requested by a gem. She waited for your arrival to perform a kind of sacrificial ritual. (...) Hello, Alexandrite.
(Alexandrite) …
>While Uranophane was giving an explanation, you could spot her in the depths of the intricate structure—a flash of blue and red that positioned itself at the center of the dome and suddenly knelt down. Alexandrite had been expecting her arrival, and it was inevitable since they were already heading in that direction. She probably knew Tara would visit the building and had prepared accordingly. The sword she holds is white, unlike any you've seen before. After noticing her and being startled—since from her perspective, she just appeared there—Tara took several steps back, worried about the weapon. Fearfully, she refused several times the silent, or non-existent, plea from Alexandrite. In the end, faced with your apprentice's silence, Tara contradicted herself and attempted to take the weapon. Alexandrite pulled it away, slightly disappointed, but returning to her serious expression, she explained with firm emotion.
(Tara) A-aa-ah. Why are you giving me this? D-do you want me to destroy you or something? I-I can't use a sword. What if I cut myself and bleed to death? I can't. Especially if it's about harming a gem. I promised to be an ally to gems until the very end, no matter what happens. (...) But if you show such determination, I suppose I'll have to do it...
(Alexandrite) No, Lady Tara, innocent, foolish, and distracted cloud. Ahem. Lady Tara, as the world-universal high priestess goddess who protects the planet from interstellar threats, I want you to bear witness to my investiture ceremony. I entrust this ancient sword to my master Taaffeite T. Silicate the Second, and let my actions speak for me, at the moment she deems fit—or not—to make me a knight. That moment is now.

>>2327
>Unlike the Academy, the School of the Crust has much more to offer in terms of comforts for gems. Even Heliolite and Hecatolite have more than just a single room to shelter in, but rather several interconnected ones forming an entire floor. They share the place voluntarily. Dumortierite lived alone due to her status as a liberator, but Onyx shares hers with Carnelian by the latter's insistence. Soon, Sillimanite will too—though not necessarily forced, since it seems the only one who holds any real power over Sillimanite is Peridotite, due to her abilities. Emotionally, only you. And it's obvious, from the looks Heliolite and Hecatolite exchange, that they witness how Sillimanite responds to your teasing with an exaggerated, feigned negativity far more intense than it should be. It's useless trying to criminalize other gems in the Crust, or at least entirely so, because they take advantage of each other. Sillimanite scoops up another bit of edible material onto her spoon and tries to take advantage of you. Preparing to launch, she exclaims.
(Sillimanite) Well, I think it's utterly cruel. That a gem would toy with others' expectations should be a crime... Clearly, the Crust is full of criminal, shameless, and ill-mannered gems. So I have no choice but to deliver justice myself! I'll make sure to return your habits right back to you, no matter how bad they are.
>She stopped, took just a bit of ice cream, and slid it across your nose, barely smearing it at all. Causing no disaster, which was probably also an expectation the sun-and-moon sisters held. Sillimanite tends to beat around the bush when processing certain things, and it seems she's even accepted the fact that you're trying to play with her. (...) Sillimanite's excitement and curiosity were constant throughout the game of posts or objects. Hecatolite was terrible at keeping secrets, and therefore, at lying. So you only needed to ask her simple questions to guess whether the object in question was or wasn't a cake. Due to the massive distraction caused by the Supreme Leader's messages, you couldn't guess the outcome of Heliolite being either object or cake. Something suggested it was possibly the most complicated decision you could have made. After removing a piece of cake, cutting it into a C-shape to fit Heliolite's hair, Hecatolite reveals in her hands the missing piece of her sister. Solar Quartz remains in denial, continuously, even after being completed and closing her eyes from the connection.
(Heliolite) P-put that back in place. I can't believe I've been this incomplete for several days straight. You even used thermal resin. How did you do this?
(Hecatolite) Hm, you're back to your old self. An older sister with extra weight on her head. But that's fine, because I love you just as angry and hot as ever.
(Sillimanite) Hecatolite, your games are unhealthy. But if you were ever to get canceled for something, it'd be for doing things in secret. I gave that up a long time ago. Huh…?
>Lunarite dodges the question by trying to win her sister's favor, but Heliotite doesn't give in. Sylvite realizes the game is over and offers her opinion. It's clear that Hecatolite, being criminal enough to gather explosives, was the prime suspect for breaking into her sister's hidden and silent room and baking a cake while she slept. Naturally, Sylvite can also share certain experiences from before she became herself. But as the sisters argue, you can approach her to deliver your message. She reacts with some confusion, unable to respond for a few seconds. Sylvite then briefly shifts her gaze toward you before locking eyes directly. At first, her statement echoes what you both experienced deep underground, but soon Sylvite looks beyond the message and understands your intention.
(Sylvite) Leucozaphire, I want... to get involved with you. I want to see and feel the same things you do. I don't mind capturing gems for you, and I don't care about growing old without achieving anything, as long as it's with you. And that's why... if what you're trying to do now is protect me... I understand. (...) The Astro sisters have been great to me. I can spend time with them. But, you know...? I doubt they have good taste. So I'll wait for you to decorate my room in this School, as much or even more than Hecatolite. Is that okay with you?
>She had decided not to use it—the massive metal reserve she possesses, located directly above the School. But given the situation, seeing that Hecatolite and Heliotite wouldn't notice anything at all, she coated her hands in iron before taking yours. She nodded confidently and smiled, then brought her palm close to express something discreetly. She criticized the interior of the place with a distaste that had gone unnoticed during all the time they'd spent here. After reaching an agreement, she would handle the next activity before Hecatolite's meeting ended. Only this time, you wouldn't be included in it.
(...)
[Peridot] I am an eternal existence with a great heart; there is no room within me for revenge. And even if there were, I fill those spaces with charity and glamour. That's why it never, ever occurred to me to create a space to punish gems who betray me. Never. But... if you manage to capture Dumortierite, please take her to the coordinates I'll send you next. She's in for a magnificent reward! I'll prepare the ceremony.
>You're descending, inside a descending elevator that launched directly from Headquarters to Crust 40. Although the interior is private and Peridot could initiate a call with you, she continues choosing to send you messages on a screen—now enormous. It's no excuse that she's at the spa, since that clearly happened several days ago. She reveals the emergency level of the situation, which is only high for certain gems. After all, Pink Diamond did manage to impact the Crust, if only slightly, by giving Peridot trauma over being betrayed by others. As you receive information about a location situated at the antipode of the Crust's center, you can assume what awaits Dumortierite is either extremely good or extremely bad—no middle ground. The illumination level drops, and the tone of the caverns shifts toward red as you descend deeper and deeper into the earth.

>>2336
[Peridotite] Oh, I noticed you said "want to capture her," so I adaptively changed my speech from destruction to capture. It's clear my loyalty doesn't fully align with yours. But even though it might seem best to me, from a technical standpoint, forgiving Dumortierite knowing she abused her Meth unit and attacked the Crust would be equal to or similar to me trying to pardon Fluorite for her crimes, just because we were once related by blood. I mean, of course not—she deserves the worst.

> Knowing Peridotite's history won't open her heart; she's a synthetic being, like a program or an automated system. At most, it could make you feel more hatred or pity toward Fluorite, which in turn is useless when it comes to resolving this entire situation. At least Peridotite is capable of recognizing your words and taking you into account. Since the mission is simply to capture her, you might feel somewhat relieved. Of course, the fact that she has help from a giant Meth makes her deadly. But even Peridotite took precautions for that—just look up and you'll see dozens of Emeths piled together riding the transparent elevator. Some are missing limbs, others are fused, but in the end, they all keep their spherical heads intact. You didn't expect her to speak about them the moment you looked, she could've made you believe she was watching you through a camera, which she sometimes does too.

[Peridotite] Anyway, those giants with their simple, ugly faces have always caused me too many problems, whether they're under our control or on the side of the clouds. That's why I've always preferred thousands of small Emeths—much more manipulable, emotional, and with such ridiculous little voices that I can never take them seriously. Yeah, sometimes I can be very offensive. Seems we all have a bit of Dumortierite in our hearts, right? Although of course, I'd never start a radio conversation with a Crystal Gem just to self-sabotage. Do you think I'm stupid?
>She only got straight to the point near the end of her message, when you finally reached Crust 40 and were about to search for Dumortierite with the help of the Emeths. The reason behind seeking Dumortierite lies in how she used her Meth unit. Since communication with any other type of unit is possible, a basic feature for such a large and advanced android, and because there are androids on Earth Crystal, you yourself caused her escape—it's clear Dumortierite can communicate with her whenever she wants. Peridotite had no control over this, after all, she doesn't control the Meth, but she could sense the communications traveling through her continental crust. Crust 40 is abandoned on paper, yet as far as the eye can see, you spot clusters of red humans stuck together, crawling in a disturbing manner. The Emeths deal with them by sealing them off with pyroclastic material. Finding Dumortierite inside this Crust was, surprisingly, a simple task. It was just a matter of looking at the ceiling and connecting the giant Meth hole in it with the spot below where Dumortierite likely fell. There, on an unnaturally smooth white hill, Dumortierite waits, reclining with arms crossed behind her back. When she noticed the commotion, she sat up and greeted you with a smile. The Emeths rushed forward and gagged her.
(Dumortierite) Oh, hey, Corundum— Mmfmfmm Mmfm! Mmnm!
(Emeth81) You're under arrest for attacking the integrity and beauty of Peridotite and the Crust.
(Emeth13) Hello, White Diamond. White Diamond, do you remember me? Bracito?
(Dumortierite) I can't breathe! I can't...!
(Emeth35) Guys, guys, stop. We still don't have a confession. One confession.
>One by one, playing clueless cops, the androids swarmed over Dumortierite. Several skeletal limbs detached and reconnected, forming a strange amalgamation of gem buried within a cluster of faces, cracking under the struggle of the first. Occasionally, one of the androids following you approached and greeted you—it seems several recognize you due to the work you used to do alongside Onyx repairing them. Realizing Dumortierite needs to explain what kind of message she sent to the Crust, the androids backed off and allowed her to stand. Facing you, her gaze clouded with guilt and negativity, she lowered her voice and began to speak. It seemed to be going well until suddenly she showed grave indignation, exclaiming, she revealed the partial truth of what happened. Finally appearing slightly annoyed, Dumortierite brought her hand to her forehead. Immediately, the androids attacked her again.
(Dumortierite) Corundum, it seems like... everything I do ends up negatively affecting you... Listen... I... I think these androids are way too rough with me! ...Especially after I tricked a gem into helping the Crust! Goodness, who would've thought I'd start doing other people's jobs? Sometimes I'm too nice—
(Emeth81) She confessed, she confessed, she confessed, she confessed.
(Dumortierite) Enough! Hey! Someone touched my butt!
(Emeth13) That was me.

Before making the new thread, I originally planned to roll the chapter without double turns, I think I said that. But I took too long writing lately and to compensate I started sending in pairs. And that plus the extra plot of Zafiro (which I did warn about) within the turns of Leucozafiro made all the events get messed up kek

Approximate times. Leucozafiro's stuff is in the past, except for Zafiro's. Taaffeíta's stuff is in the future, with the festival being the most recent. And in between the 6 months between Silvita and Zafiro's stuff happens Ambar's, if she gets back into the game

>>2330
I think I got some Argilite in my eye.
>Even though she closed them before opening her arms, the invader was so elusive that it could easily invade any of her orifices in a moment of carelessness, as Hawk-Eye theorized.
A-are you saying Argilite is reproducing with me right now? Is this what it feels like? Uh...
>She began to associate the strange sensation of having Argilite in her body with its reproduction process and felt ashamed.
>Hawk-Eye's scientific way of describing various processes, combined with the surprise of having been involuntarily reproduced without realizing it, made her feel uncomfortable and unsure how to react, so she just covered her mouth, which had opened in surprise, with both hands to avoid saying more and to prevent other small Argilites from entering through that orifice.
Of course, Argilite wouldn't do something like that without telling me, right? That would be rude too... Did you marry someone on your planet?
>Her voice was barely audible because she didn't remove her hands from her mouth due to the second impression the alien's marital status had given her.
>Whenever she thought about space, she remembered things she swore not to forget, and this inevitably led her to relate every matter of outer space to those memories, even if they had very little in common, as was confirmed each time she had such outlandish ideas.
Aw, how cute. Do I remind you of your spouse?
>She used the same word as Argilite to avoid assuming other things out loud, although in a low voice she assumed that this Limilite must be an important gem to her and that it made her happy to remember, just as she herself could feel for other gems that were not technically her spouses, having never performed or known those rituals.

>>2331
Did you hear? Argilite doesn't think I'm an uncivilized gem who doesn't know how to bathe... Although bathing probably isn't good for clay.
>She puffed out her chest with pride for a moment, before lowering it and doubting whether the space gem's definition of class was the opposite of that of the crust and therefore didn't disprove them but rather gave them more credibility.
(...)
>She hadn't suffered disconnections like this frequently enough to compare them with other concrete experiences or describe them appropriately. She would say it was like losing consciousness at one point in time and regaining it at a very distant one and in a very far-off place, with everything that had happened in between being a void that didn't clarify how she had gotten there. It would be like being destroyed or losing consciousness in winter due to lack of light.
I've had a lot of problems in my life, I don't know if you were really the cause of one, all of them, or just the ones I have now, but it's okay.
>I still disagreed that everything was fine and was unsure if I should forgive whoever was supposedly to blame for me being half-broken in an unknown and unrecognizable place, I grudgingly accepted her apology with an uncompassionate expression and a sigh so as not to antagonize her too much before knowing the context, hoping that at least she would keep her word about helping me move again so that I could find the answers I wasn't getting from her.
>I was missing too many pieces to judge the one who seemed to be Sapphire well, but I couldn't do much to change that other than try to be patient.
(...)
>I put my hand on my head, as if feeling some pain, but actually to make sure I still had it. After I was sure that the only thing I was missing were internal memories, I recognized the gem in front of me.
Do you think I crave power? The idea of being a conqueror or the strongest being ever doesn't tempt me. I convinced myself long ago that I wasn't made to lead.
>Becoming weaker than a pyroclast wasn't as terrifying an idea now as it would have been in my childhood, though it was still an inconvenience. If there was anything in Lapis Lazuli's proposal that tempted me to accept it, it was the possibility of visiting other planets, but my definition of traveling was again different from hers.
"Oh, I always wanted to explore the world, but I don't want to do it until an eternity from now, when most humans have been saved and I don't need to do anything else on the crust." I assume I must have said something like that, I don't have that memory stored.
>I tapped my temple a few more obvious times with my index finger, trying to make noise with the contact to check if the sound echoed inside my hollow head, revealing some literal emptiness within.
When a certain gem I knew went through periods of daze and forgetfulness, she confused dreams with memories and reality. I hope these are just more false or lost memories I have, otherwise I might worry... more.
>I let some of the fear I was enduring show on my face as I finished expressing my problem, there was no point in just saying it out loud if I wasn't going to share what I felt sincerely.
If Peridot doesn't show interest in Lapis Lazuli, it must be because she doesn't have enough relevance to her salvation mission, and her proposal also doesn't have enough benefits for my personal plans to accept it. I hope I expressed myself clearly enough so they don't suspect otherwise. Do I have your permission to enter there with you or should I wait for you to come out?
>I touched my body as I had touched my head before to confirm that I wasn't already naked, in the water, and with no memory of having done so.
Honestly, if you trust me to be honest, these baths didn't seem that hygienic to me. If all the dirt that comes out of your body ends up in the water you're soaking in, don't you end up floating in a puddle of your own filth?

>>2332

>In recent decades, Taaffeite has been more interested in popularity contests
>While that's true, she limits herself to trying to get along with everyone and avoid conflicts with anyone
>Compliments about her beauty, radiance, or maturity don't embarrass her at all
>But any that relate to her personality do
>Whenever she receives one of these, she feels as if others are exaggerating too much
>Sometimes she even believes they're seeing a different Taaffeite than the one she really is
>Fluorite's advice, though welcome, isn't something she feels capable of following
>Limiting herself to only silently nodding instead of saying anything further on the matter

I'm sorry, but there are just some things that can't be. I can't help you with your dream of fighting, but I fully support you regarding the festival and also with Heliodor.

>Just as Taaffeite doesn't see herself capable of changing, she also doesn't believe it's possible for Fluorite to ever fight
>In a way, she pitied her for her lack of freedom, but her sympathy had limits and she couldn't allow something so risky
>Training with her was the most she could do to fulfill, even partially, her dream
>Though it's not an option that seems to make Fluorite very happy
>It would be better for her to focus on indoor tasks, like the festival
>Even knowing Heliodor isn't Fluorite's biggest fan, Taaffeite remains open to the possibility that could change
>Maybe Fluorite saw something she isn't able to see, or maybe Taaffeite is being too romantic
>Either way, it would be good if both became closer

The sunlight on the tower is quite pleasant, but I understand what you mean. She could end up drifting too far from the rest if we just leave her there like that. Maybe we should integrate her into other activities, no matter how small, though nothing comes to mind right now...

>Like Purple Topaz, Taaffeite also hit the android
>In her case, it wasn't a reflex action, but rather because she genuinely disliked hearing such comments
>Even showing slight disapproval on her face when Purple Topaz agreed with it
>Given Pity's history, it's clear he didn't mean what Purple Topaz interpreted
>In any case, she quickly ignored it and moved on to thinking about a solution for Esphene's problem
>Assigning her small tasks isn't something Taaffeite sees as negative
>Rather, what she sees as problematic is the amount of time spent in the tower
>It would be good to give her an activity involving more movement and interaction with others

>>2333

How cruel you are, Topur, I gave you my support and this is how you treat me... All this time you saw me as nothing more than a slave to order around, sob, sob.

>Lying on broken glass, Taaffeite allowed herself to joke around with Purple Topaz
>Shedding fake tears that evaporated instantly, while imitating animal sounds
>Of course, she had no problem helping, but she had to admit this wasn't the kind of work she expected to do it in
>Her lack of experience in said area was immediately noticeable as soon as she accidentally broke several of the glasses
>It wasn't until the third or fourth attempt that she finally managed to create a layer of silica on her hands to avoid this problem
>Her previous attempts had been considered failures due to their elasticity and stickiness
>Causing her to leave unwanted residue every time she touched them
>With that problem solved, all that remained was to figure out how to put them on

As incredible as it is, I don't understand why she did it in a place like this. She should understand better than anyone why that's a bad idea.

>Putting the games aside, Taaffeita proceeded to work as she should
>She is quite impressed by Ruby's progress in her mission to go to space
>It always gave her the feeling that it would take centuries to achieve such a thing
>Knowing that she has advanced, even if only slowly, generates certain conflicting feelings in her
>On the one hand, she is happy, but on the other, she fears that she will continue with her strange idea that she is not welcome here
>Hopefully, all the help she is receiving in repairing her room will help her change her mind

If you keep this up, maybe I'll consider escaping in a rocket with Ruby. We'll fly very, very, very high until we escape your tyranny.

>Following Antofillita's advice, Taaffeita tried to place things the way she was telling her
>Having finished that, she approached Purple Topaz, cleaning the debris from her head
>Only to then blow it in her face, while pretending to be annoyed
>Before the games could continue, she offered her a handkerchief to clean herself with
>Returning then, to her work in an attempt not to get distracted further
>Although before doing so, an idea crossed her mind and she soon shared it

If you're in a hurry, why don't you take Sphene as your assistant? Consider her a sort of... practice apprentice! Heavy work like this isn't for her, but I think she could be useful preparing mixtures or carrying tools for you. (...) Or at least she could help lighten your load a bit.

>That Antofillita would need an apprentice presented itself as a unique opportunity to solve Sphene's problem
>Even if it's only temporary, it's still better than leaving her in the tower all day with nothing else to do
>Likewise, Antofillita could also benefit from this experience
>As good as she is at her job, she doesn't have much knowledge when it comes to educating others
>Practicing now with Sphene will be useful to her when she gets a real apprentice
>It sounded like a great idea in her head, but now that she's said it, she's not so sure it is
>Uncomfortable, she fell silent for a second, looking indecisively at Antofillita
>Then, she let out another reason why she should consider her idea in an attempt to convince her

>>2329
If you run away now, maybe I won't get angry enough to hunt you down after I beat you... I'll try to restrain myself at least.

You can tell me that when you're about to win, but judging by what I've seen, that won't happen anytime soon... Check.

I'm serious... If you leave, it'll just mean that, just like everyone else on this miserable, filthy planet, you weren't worth it.

But...?

But if you keep provoking my competitive side, I can't guarantee I won't care about beating you—and therefore, won't consider killing you a suitable action instead of a waste of my energy and time...

So you admit you feel something for me now? That's new... Checkmate.

Shut up and reset the pieces. As soon as I win, you'll be nothing but dust in the wind.

You mean, if you win...

You're irritating, maddening, exasperating, stressful, frustrating, overwhelming—and I should eliminate you right now...

'Go ahead... But you'll never stop being a loser if you do, not much to show for all the hours invested... Begin. White always moves first.

(...)

(Were you really that miserable...?)

From time to time, without any warning, when Amiel, Amory, and Amber are fused together, they receive flashes of their progenitors' memories during moments of rest. A somber reminder that, in the end, they were made from them—but are not them.

Although previously Amber took control of the fusion, this time it's Amory who holds it, though the details escape the understanding of any of the three. A simple "because I say so" was enough to form Iamme.

Today... Is it my birthday? Do gems even have those...?

Was it? Did they? The young masked boy in a brown suit and hair tilts his head slightly as he tries to remember. He doesn't know the exact day they were born, but from what he recalls, it was probably around this time. In any case, even if gems don't have birthdays, he isn't entirely a gem—so it's a legal loophole.

nom

With overwhelming curiosity, he starts eating the cake in small bites, staining his gloves, white just like his suit.

It's not... a very good taste... Still...

They gave it to him, so eating it is only natural, right?
I wished... to keep living as long as possible... Just like Iamme...

The fusions they create have a rather strange "flaw" in their eyes: they retain their memories after unfusing. In a peculiar way, they're still themselves, but Iamme's decisions and thoughts aren't the ones Amory, Amiel, or Amber would have... Iamme is a person in their own right, and therefore doesn't want to die or unfuse, because every fusion enjoys "living."

Though they'll most likely unfuse eventually—after all, if Iamme exists as a fusion of the three, the other fusions can't exist simultaneously.

Are there really no old gems? Maybe that's why Mother sacrificed herself...

Though she thought it and said it, deep down she knows it's not true. Her former self feared no one, and if they wanted her dead, they'd have to come kill her themselves. Someone saved thousands of gems the trouble of marching single file to their destruction... That raises the question: are the ambers newborns, or do they inherit their mother's age? Technically, the same materials compose them, but of course, they lack her memories except in rare cases.

Don't say that, Spee. Thanks to you we better understood the concept of "fusion"—no useless gem could've achieved such a thing... Though, I'm sorry if it was too much...

She blushes slightly, because... well... fusing is an intimate act where you share memories, thoughts, and desires. More than sex, it's the closest act to "conception" they can experience—a new being is born from them, and dies upon unfusing. During their time together, Spee and Amiel's fusion had siblings of a rather opposite nature to insert fusion name here kek

With... all... three...?

The voices of the three came from Iamme's throat, different from her own. Should they unfuse already? Well, unless it's absolutely necessary, they'll remain as Iamme for as long as they can... After all, the memories remain.

They understand very little of the video that follows. They almost manage to see their mother, but her attitude eludes them.

And the point is...?

She asks, not fully understanding what's being shown or why...

...

Can I fuse with humans like Stevergas? And I think I'll only use one character to avoid separate dialogues kek...

>>2334

Sure, why don't you try to hold me? Rossu... that way of expressing yourself isn't bad, but as far as you know, I keep my hands pretty clean.

>She turned her back to Tara, placed her hands on her chest, and let herself fall on top of her
>Changing the direction of her body to the side before making contact with her so as not to break her
>Stumbling a bit before managing to straighten up again
>As she did, she saw Grossularia with a slightly offended face as a result of her words
>Wanting to show that she is not a gem covered in dirt, she undid all the silica from before
>Once the cloud of steam dissipated, she raised her hands with palms open for everyone to see
>Any trace of "waste" that might have been there had completely sublimated
>Giving Taaffeita a much cleaner and shinier appearance, now that nothing was preventing her material from shining

Oh, a fang, well I guess that's better than... WHAT!

>She relaxed her posture upon learning that they haven't actually brought an elephant to the island
>Still, knowing that Tara is willing to duel one, just to please Red Diamond, is in itself quite worrying
>She didn't have a chance to explain to either of them why that is dangerous
>Red Diamond's true request turned out to be even stranger than expected
>Taaffeita couldn't help but scream in surprise upon learning what she really wanted

Umm.. Rhodia, a romance is something that depends on both parties. You can't force someone to love you, think about how you would feel if suddenly an ugly, horrible, bad pyroclast kidnapped you to marry you. It wouldn't be nice at all, would it?.

>Shocked by Red Diamond's words, Taaffeita turned to both sides, waiting for someone to say something
>Tara is too helpful, so there was no point in seeking support from her
>As for Grossularia, she seemed to be ignoring the situation
>Leaving Taaffeita as the only one responsible for being the voice of reason
>Scratching her neck, she looked at Red Diamond with an insecure expression
>In a way, she understands the reason for her desire to connect with someone else
>However, her solutions and way of acting are not something she can approve of
>Knowing that words are not enough to dissuade Red Diamond, Taaffeita tried to scare her
>Adopting a tall and imposing pose with her arms raised, while negatively describing her potential partner
>With any luck, that will be enough to make her forget about that topic

>>2335

Isn't it? Although you surely prefer that ending to the other, don't you?

>Taaffeita didn't need to think about topics to distract Tara from creating a boyfriend for Red Diamond
>Regardless of whether that conversation happened or not, Taaffeita would end up talking banally about various things on the island
>From Padparadscha's recovery, Ruby's progress with her rockets, the possibility of another gem being born, etc.
>There were many things to update Tara on, and Taaffeita didn't waste a second doing so
>While talking about this and much more, they arrived at the place where Uranophane was
>Without mentioning it directly, Taaffeita brought up a past conversation
>It seems Tara is also not very comfortable with her "secretions" being treated as organic
>Which Taaffeita made sure to emphasize with a somewhat joking tone
>Almost as if indirectly asking her, how does it feel?
"Tia? Tara, we're more like cousins. To be more exact, you'd be our great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-g...... cousin.

>Both silicoclass beings and nimbireans share a common origin, namely the inclusions
>However, both took distinct evolutionary paths that separate and differentiate them
>Since they don't belong to the same species, but share a genealogical tree, that makes them cousins
>Extremely distant ones, given Tara's age, who predates all gems currently present in the Crystal Earth
>Forty-fifth cousin is a very low estimate, but Taaffeita would need a whole day to find the exact number

You must have worked very hard to gather so many of ours, forty-fifth cousin. It's hard for me to even imagine such a number; I also hope we can visit them soon. An academy with that population must be very lively.

>Surprised by Tara's work, Taaffeita's eyes widened, unable to believe what she heard
>More than a hundred gems, all gathered in one place
>The academy has never had numbers exceeding a few dozen
>And now, somewhere far from here, there exists a land where that amount is doubled
>While Uranofano lamented how lonely it must be for them not to find each other, Taaffeita thought the opposite
>She couldn't help but marvel at the idea of living with so many of her own kind
>The things they would be able to do and achieve with such a population
>That's something she can only imagine for now, since until she finishes with the crust, that won't happen

Oh... you couldn't get an Ammolita? Never mind, I just need to do this and... Done! So, where were we? Ahem

>The color of the sword didn't match the ceremony Taaffeita had imagined
>In an attempt to fix that, she released silica of as many colors as possible
>Dyeing the blade and hilt in brilliant shades that shone brightly
>Or at least, gave that impression while slowly fading into the air
>The layer of silica she used to cover the sword was so thin it vanished almost instantly
>It was only a matter of seconds before it returned to its pale original color
>Not wasting time, Taaffeita closed her eyes, cleared her throat, and began to speak in a more solemn tone

Orthorhombic Alexandrite, noble member of the Beryl Order. Do you swear in the presence of the celestial priestess to defend justice, truth, and peace? Do you promise, in the name of your leader, not to abandon those you swore to protect? (...) If so, I, Taaffeíta T. Silicata Second, on behalf of the gallant order of crystal knights who proudly protect this land, do hereby name you, under the gaze of our nimbirean deity and of... our Princess Lambertita in place of our great leader, second defender of the Crystallinity.

>Treating Tara as a God is not something she fully agrees with, but given the situation, she decided to play along
>Giving her a conspiratorial look, one that showed she was struggling to hold back her laughter
>Turning in the opposite direction, she found Uranofano, who considers herself the daughter of Purple Topaz
>In that case, that makes her the princess of this kingdom
>After attributing that title, Taaffeita returned her attention to Alexandrite
>Carefully placing the tip of the sword on Alexandrite's shoulders
>Thus bringing the false investiture ceremony to an end

>>2336
E-eh. But you can trust that I always lie with good intentions. My surprises have always been to make all of you happy. You have to believe in my deceptions and in me...
>She prepared to be punished, with excuses and feigned sadness. When the dessert finally touched her nose, she considered leaving it there and waiting for her sister to remove it directly with her tongue or telling her to do so, but after imagining it, it seemed too unhygienic, dangerous, and embarrassing, so she removed it herself with her finger and put it in her mouth instead of offering it to her sister, if she accidentally broke her mouth inside it would be a bad memory.
That does seem like a more criminal surprise; I would never do that.
>That only part of Heliolita's head had been replaced by cake recently was more logical but no less impactful, so this said about Hecatolita and her bad habits.
So eating directly from another gem's body isn't indecent...?
>She had covered her mouth with her sleeve but started uncovering it slowly after relating this event to one that only occurred in her head.
Me too. It makes me happy to have you with me and I want to continue like this; I also want you to be happy... I hadn't cared so much about what someone else thought of me, so that also worries me. If I do things that make me feel like a worse gem, I can't hide them if I intend to be more sincere...
>She answered with such a broad spirit as her smile to her sister's first words, expressing only happiness, then returned to her more serious and quiet humor.
>Part of what her sister said was correct; she cared that she continued to be happy; it would be strange not to after what happened trying to pull her out of the deepest part of the crust. On the other hand, she also had concerns more focused on herself.
>The two things didn't contradict each other, if she supposed that her sister's happiness depended on having a pleasant Leucozafiro with whom she could share experiences and feelings, although if she said it to herself it sounded like a justification to make her selfish thoughts seem more altruistic.
I've never decorated a room, so it'll be a new experience, and if it's with you it'll be a very good one. I'll be happy to do it.
>Another reason why they couldn't talk directly about the problem they were facing was the presence of the other two sisters in her room, which wasn't entirely bad. She wouldn't have time to explain it in detail to her sister, and in the end the decision would have to be made by her, so it was fine to cut it off there.
>Although technically she was stronger than her, she felt she was repeating her habit of showing vulnerability in front of the more fragile gems; if the conversation had continued, she wouldn't know how much she would have let out. A handshake and plans for the future would be enough to calm her down at that moment.

>>2337
[Comparing Dumortierita to Fluorita isn't an exaggeration, is it? It would be hard to imagine her committing something as serious as that, or that you'd have an equally big reward for a fault like that.]
>Speaking of the criminal she was ordered to capture in that way could sound like she was defending her in some way, and it certainly couldn't be beneficial for her to do that, however she did it, for the sake of not leaving too many messages from Peridotita unanswered. After all, her declaration of "wanting" Dumortierita wasn't very well received by the cortex leader either.
[The small ones are easier to understand, although the giants might be more useful. I suppose those also have a bit of Dumortierita in them. I prefer them too.]
>The words Gardan Siti used to describe the androids could just as well be used to describe gems and humans. If she wanted to be offensive, she could use the opportunity to agree with her on a point, though it seemed strange to her that it implied Dumortierita was stupid, given how much she herself praised the intelligence of her borrowed head.
Dumortierita, coming with orders to capture you doesn't erase the fact that you still look beautiful today. (...) Thanks for the gift, it came in handy after I broke an android's arm earlier that same day. (...) That's correct, you can't breathe, you have no organs, you're made of Dumortierita.
>Trying to keep a conversation going with all the individuals present during Dumortierita's capture was harder than finding the said gem herself, yet she maintained a cold and logical attitude toward the ridiculousness of the androids piled up over the gem.
Dum, dummy, dumommy, dumentia... If I didn't care about you even a little, this wouldn't be a complicated decision.
>She played with the suspect's name, not changing her expression, hard as the sapphire she was made of. She made a brief gesture with her thumb and index finger held minimally apart to show just how little she actually cared about that gem.
Maybe it's the academy indoctrination that makes me feel a major gem should love a minor gem under her tutelage, just as my teacher loved me and I loved her. But even if I loved you more than my own life, there's not much I can do without sacrificing you.
>Contrary to the affectionate feelings she expressed with words, her face and gestures remained indifferent, as demonstrated by her shrug and fake sigh.
My orders are to take you to Peridotita for the crime of communicating with a Crystal Gem from Earth, which you've already admitted, and I've decided to carry them out. You can blame me for that part or for everything if you want. If you're so pro-crust as you say, just don't resist, explain the details of how you plotted behind everyone's backs for our own good, and convince Peridotita that you deserve a reward, not a punishment.
>She didn't do anything to calm the androids; rather, she motivated them to proceed with the arrest process without even approaching the hill where they were making their mess personally.
I'll speak up for you so you can continue living on the crust if you move me; otherwise, it's not like I can shove you in my mouth and fly to another planet to escape this planet's authorities.
>She felt strange; originally, she had planned to make this encounter more emotional and express more passionately to Dumortierita how much she meant to her and how much she wished she wouldn't be destroyed or something worse, but having her right in front of her, discouragement felt natural. Maybe the gem's attitude made her anticipate the lack of seriousness with which she'd be able to take the whole matter, and she lost the will to struggle pointlessly.
What do you really want? There are dozens of gems who want to live, millions of humans who want to die, people who want hundreds of friends, to explore the world, to be the best at something, to meet new people, to recover those they lost... Whatever you do, you do it because you want to, because you want to achieve something with it, or because someone forces you. What is your purpose?
>She feigned another sigh and tried again, after wiping the frustration from her face and trying to soften her facial expressions as much as a mineral as hard as hers could possibly soften.
Even if you don't believe it, understand it, feel it, or share it, I love you as much as I can, and that's difficult. You're complicated, hard to understand and control. I feel responsible for what happens to you, so I'm going to see where your actions lead and try to make sure the end is a happy one, if that's what you want, even just a little.
>It would be too meddlesome of her to get too involved with a gem who didn't want her in her life, or to try to help someone who despised any kind of help, but it was also unpleasant to completely disengage from the matter when a part of her felt she had a duty to get involved.

OP leaves the magik and starts writing in fa p-por favor

https://youtu.be/dtD8SXFe0C4?si=VlxRj8fLsRwPsa-p▾

Turnos mañana!

>>2345
me asustaste OP...

>>2340
(Purple Topaz) I'm not a tyrant, o-of course not. Curfew starts a few minutes after sunset. And I allow them to gather in public places, under surveillance. It's true we have prisoner gems, but their sentence is only for life. Plus! If I were truly a tyrant, I would have long abolished popularity polls and used force to make myself empress. "The reality is that I have too big a heart". It's a fact that you support me because you love me, and not because after 300 years obeying Fluorite, you got used to an autocratic system. Right...?
>Breaking the makeshift glass bed into pieces, Purple returns on her steps and denies deeply. Then, one by one she begins listing the proofs that easily determine her innocence, or so she believes. The first two of three measures are not used, or at least, no kind of resource is used to make them respected. More important, it seems that, outside of what others may come to believe, Purple Topaz has indeed devised ways to stay in power. Denying herself, citing another tyrant, she relies on her own subjective vision to refute you. Then, she tries to appeal to your subjective vision. Shrinking at the moment of asking, she almost seems sure it's a fact for you. (...) Purple's insistence is silent, or at least, she hides it among different topics she addresses in conversations. Mentioning an assistant is indeed a method of persuasion, since the goal is the only and clear rest of Anthophyllite to avoid breaking. Anthophyllite does the opposite and focuses on the subtext, and also on you, before Purple. Turning her gaze to the sky, she seeks a clear vision. She confronts you when her ambitions don't seem to match.
(Anthophyllite) Sphene, Sphene... She is... too cute, do you want me to break her, Taaffeite?. Don't get it wrong, this horrible clothes make me look like someone delicate, but I'm incredibly rough. Do you want me to choose weak gems when the only gems you have trained or had as companions have been strong gems?. It's like you only want to look good. Stupid. Mm!
>She attributed stupidity to you after slapping the floor. Although Anthophyllite's forms were always careless, she crossed a line when she stuck her tongue out at you with clear intent. Garnet and Fenaquita have hardness 8 and are companions to each other because before they had many problems gathering a garnet with a hardness 10 diamond. Likewise, although it works as a very ancient example, Alexandrite was one of the only gems that could train alongside you, and not because of a condition of Alex, but yours. While your limbs are the only thing made of diamond, you are infinitely more vulnerable in your center if you take on the task of training a hardness 10 gem like Red Diamond or Blue. It's normal that Anthophyllite doesn't take it into account, because she is not a combat gem. But, before she can return her gaze to her drawings, Purple Topaz breaks the silence with a question and a declaration out of all sensitivity.
(Topaz Purple) Can't you perform such a simple task? What a disappointment. I had high expectations for you, Ferroantophyllite.
(Antophyllite) Huh...?
>Although she covered her mouth with her wrist, the faint click of her tongue could still be heard. Topaz Purple withdrew her gaze from Antophyllite, who remained stunned in her position for a few seconds before dropping her drawing tools. Topaz Purple's tone of contempt was abnormally genuine, to the point that even you could be confused by her gestures. The one she addressed directly, Antophyllite, seemed far more affected; combined with her inherent impatience, the trembling of her mouth made it clear she didn't know what to say. Topaz Purple gathered the edges of her dress, causing a small, involuntary puff of dust. Standing, she crossed her now-hidden arms and, with her eyes closed, began her explanation.
(Topaz Purple) Rose Spinel and Aquamarine will no longer be in charge of winter. In the end, I gave in to Heliodor's words and decided it was too soon for them. For a long time, I searched for someone who could accompany me during those days. Now I'm ashamed to admit that I thought of you for that. If you can't even control a gem as simple as Sphene, it's clear you're not qualified. And with how promising you sounded when you said you'd accept anyone as an apprentice.
(Antophyllite) Winter... Yes, if it's winter, then with me it would be fine. If it's just me...! Even like that, it would be fine!, right?
(Topaz Purple) It's true... If only a Kunzita had been born.
>As if facing a pyroclast, or a gem with too great a hardness, Antophyllite couldn't move freely. Continuously, Purple's comments acted as psychological alarms for Antophyllite to react, little by little. As if assimilating the situation from 0 to 100, Antophyllite immediately volunteered for the job. Lifting her head, she did so with a half-smile of hope. However, opening only one of her eyes, Purple panned Antophyllite's face and discreetly shook her head. The fact that Antophyllite had mentioned Kunzita earlier only to be immediately countered by Purple seemed to affect her instantly. She brought her hands to her face, and from her shoulders, lines of opening, cracks, began to form and release dust. Antophyllite's new proposal ceased to be an enthusiastic call and began to sound almost like a plea.
(Antofilita) You don't have to force anyone else. I can be of help. If it's about Sphene, or Winter. You can still use me, right?
(Topacio Purple) Then it's up to you.
>Purple released her hands, leaned down, and took Antofilita's joined hands. With a tone still too sober, she accepted and looked over Antofilita's head. The pieces of Antofilita that fell to the floor were almost the same size as Sphene could find. But, even though you could see her dropping them right away, it seems Antofilita herself ignores them. Fortunately, the cracks stopped as soon as Purple kept a firm grip. Thus, when Purple could confirm the same as you, she moved even closer to Antofilita, bringing her head to rest against hers. Without a trace of scratch, Purple pushed and pressed her lips to Antofilita's temple. Topacio managed to keep her expression intact, even though a second later, Antofilita questioned her upon noticing the contact. Topacio finally ordered and kept her response discreet.
(Antofilita) You're too cruel, Purple. First you say such hurtful things and then you give me a kiss. How important am I to you?
(Topacio Purple) Focus on saving energy for winter, okay? That's obvious.
(...)
(Ruby) Seriously?! If they haven't finished yet, then I can use Topacio Purple's room! Hahahaha! I'll sleep like a leader. I should make more frequent destructions. Of course! I'll organize a party- Um. Don't stay up all night, but take your time. But don't try too hard. Goodbye!
(Topacio Purple) Have fun. If you discover too many of my secrets, I'll punish you.
>Ruby only seems polite when something benefits her. She looked happy that her room remained destroyed, while Topacio nodded with a calm smile. Her attitude was slightly less bold, though Ruby couldn't notice it. It was a fact that without Antofilita's help, they couldn't repair Ruby's room overnight, but Topacio didn't need to make you work without rest. When night fell, she returned to the work area with a candle. Finally, after several hours, she could soften her expression, looking relieved for a few seconds. She didn't take long to explain diligently.
(Topacio Purple) With that, it should be enough... Thanks to Tara, winter has become the safest time of year for us. Antofilita will rest, even if she doesn't want to. And by taking Sphene as an apprentice, both of them have left a dangerous zone. There's no chance, in the coming years, that either of them will become Fluorite's vessel.
>She watched the night through the hole in the wall, now perfectly clean. Sealed well enough that the next maintenance in this room wouldn't last more than an afternoon. Púrpura's words echoed what Padparadscha had assured long ago regarding Fluorita's preferences around choosing her successors. Just as Axinita was merely a secondary assimilation gem compared to Dioptasa for Fluorita. It seems Esfena and Antofilita were in a similar situation. Because it's Heliodor and Topacio Púrpura who supervise Fluorita and her activities as a retired target gem, you had no reason to suspect how much she liked to play or spend time with those two. When the possibility of Fluorita wanting to switch bodies immediately manifested, Topacio Púrpura took care to soothe.
(Topacio Púrpura) It's merely a guarantee. Keeping both of them away from Fluorita means that: if in the worst case, our attack plan fails, neither Esfena nor Antofilita will be assimilation targets. Therefore, Fluorita cannot be manipulated in any way, neither by the Crust nor by us. She cannot be destroyed, nor does she need to leave the Academy. Leaving her alone was always the best way to protect her… (...) No, that's not true! Because the festival is approaching! Fluorita will have too much fun, so much that she'll explode. Hortensia, Pity, Rem, everyone promised me they'd do their best to distract her while we fight.
>Even while explaining the benefits of the plan, Topacio Púrpura's voice showed signs of not being entirely convinced. Especially when mentioning what Fluorita will go through, she herself loses some of her volume. For a few seconds, until checking the reflection of light on your mineral, Púrpura waves her arms firmly. Almost like a child, she predicts. Naturally, Tara's arrival usually boosts the Academy's morale, and especially for Fluorita, who is directly connected to its core. Trying to conclude with a statement of hope, after becoming aware of her actions, Topacio Púrpura ends up warning.
(Topacio Púrpura) That's my bet. The first few days will be the most critical, but after that, it'll only depend on us. I'm sure Antofilita's overload isn't Fluorita's fault, and that she didn't want Esfena to fail to find her place. I'll trust that and then wait… Armada. (...) It's just a joke.

>>2339
(Hawk's Eye) You don't seem desperate to leave, I'll believe that. Or to be more precise, I choose to believe it. It might be hard to see from your position, but your mere presence is beneficial for the Gemstones of the Crust. Peridotite has never been so flexible. I prepared to experiment with particular gems like Dumortierite or Onyx, but it was in vain. Thanks to you and Carnelian, they at least have ordinary lives.
>She gives you a half-smile before being enveloped in vapor once more. Hawk's Eye doesn't seem to be lying, and somehow, it also sounds as if she's valuing your presence in the Crust, after Argillite's proposal. Treating your actions as beneficial for other gems, she returns to a passive state, being unaware of experiments with gems. Her eyes stay on you, from the moment you take off your clothes until you enter the base. She kept a neutral expression, accepting to share the cleaning with you, until one of your questions offended her.
(Hawk's Eye) Dilution and drainage. The concentration of filth is so low that the base could never be stained. Or did you just intend to call me dirty? You hurt me. It's clear that our relationship won't get closer with a bath, grooming each other. But… I understood that you liked my ass, you said it yourself.
>A 1:1000 ratio, for the amount of contaminated water, though, with your entry, it jumped to 15:1000. Hawk's Eye refutes you by focusing her attention on the specialized pipes that renew the liquid. She asks you, labeling with prejudice, that even if it's false, her sober tone confuses things. She stands up in the middle of the pool, holding her hips behind her as if searching for something strange. The joke Rubellite played on you at the time seems to have worked. And in part it's true, because under her wet and normally messy hair, her not very prominent chest, she concentrates attention on what she believes is her only feature. (...) Hawk's Eye doesn't lie, so her jokes are outdated. The real reason she stood up was to get closer to you. And behind you, touching your shoulders, she is cruelly honest.
(Hawk's Eye) Tenderness, love, hate. Even if I'm submerged in a pool of my own filth, as long as I have a foothold, I'll avoid drowning. It's impossible for me to turn into my own waste, because, even for beings so far outside the natural cycle as us, it's a fact that we fall by our own weight. It's easy to fantasize that the incurable pains of my chest could also silently slide out of me. That's my answer.
>Studying inclusions means relating two parts of the same nature that should only be one. Hawk's Eye explains, her way of thinking, and how she has remained active for so long. She doesn't seem exempt from various sorrows, though you have no idea what they are. She stayed silent, rubbing your back with her arms, sustaining her activity and suddenly just supporting the weight of her body. The dirt went away the moment you entered with her, so her cleaning seems more like a courtesy than a serious attempt to clean you. Hawk's Eye's face doesn't help, because even if her cheeks have flushed, her gaze remains that of an android. For greater contrast, she mentions.
(Hawk Eye) I feel happy. Even light-years away from this planet, there are creatures that want to end Fluorite, just like us. My interest has focused on that Limolite, by invading the frequency of inclusions, or by keeping at bay a society even more massive than that of the Crust. If it's true that she resembles you and not Argilite, then she won't disgust me. Could she have devised forms of torture to persuade Fluorite? How many of them could we put to the test?
>She slid out of you and took the closest route to sit beside the large bathtub. She waited several seconds for the base to settle before grabbing one of several towels. Shamelessly, still naked before you, yet strangely delicate, Hawk Eye began drying her hair while talking about another gem. After all, even though Argilite is not to her liking, the mysteries behind this one excite Hawk Eye, even if you have no way to prove it physically. She extended her toes a couple of times, closing her eyes immediately. She tilted her head and confessed with a slightly dejected face. The reason behind her asking about the treatment Argilite gave you was evident. Like other gems, Hawk Eye is also willing to sacrifice her nature to achieve any result, after thousands of years.
(Hawk Eye) I would choose it, if they had proposed it to me. If by turning into clay I can find the optimal way to alter the world, then I wouldn't mind being a hive gem. Changing species for perversely scientific purposes is proper of a crazy and unstable human, does that sound like you?
(...)
>She doesn't speak fast enough, not because she can't afford to, but because she's using her mouth for another function while listening to you. Her shadow leans to the sides, taking small pieces with her lips and then projecting them vertically onto you. Her precision is abysmal, as several times your pieces fell on your forehead instead of where they should go, your cheek. Fortunately, it didn't blind you any more than you already were. The minimum precision is enough, since it seems your inclusions still recognize themselves and gather on their own. After hearing your response, she stopped working with her head and moved her right arm to position you on the floor. You could see her right hand missing its thumb and ring finger. She gently slid her pinky finger along your face, as if identifying your expression. She stepped back with a guilty smile, but it didn't take long for it to fade. She touched her chest with the same partially broken hand.
(Zafiro) I don't know when that strange habit solidified. Maybe Fluorite started it. But I never went against it, because I adored it. Illuminating someone else with your own glow feels close and fantastic, even if it's part of an illusion. A mix of points of darkness and light that make you feel captivated. However, illuminating someone in that way is impossible for a transparent gem. It was hard, wasn't it? The world is truly unreasonable.
>Her shadow leaned toward you. You could feel the fine edges of her hair touching from your head down to your shoulders. For your broken parts, it was almost as if they had risen as pillars to be used as capillaries to repair you. But that wasn't Zafiro's goal, because as soon as you regained perception, you noticed her glowing red, even in the darkness. Naturally, the only time you could glow in that way alongside another gem was because Uranocircite had such an aggressive glow that you could even acquire it for several seconds. Zafiro moved the hair that bothered your head with one hand, and in that way you could see her faceted face above her nose. Even though she seemed not to have sight, she still spoke about the visual characteristics of your gem. And several seconds later, your individual features.
(Zafiro) Zafiro is cheerful and strong, as hard and unbreakable as none, especially in the moment of fighting and training. Her dedication to combat, her need to train to be the best, both were imposed by Leucosapphire to hide her insecurities. Leucosapphire is not just a rebellious gem, but also vulnerable. Because she is capable of understanding the vulnerabilities of other gems, Leucosapphire tries to make damaged, marginalized, and even dangerous gems happy.
>While exposing information that she should have known little or nothing about, Zafiro began her work. Joining and using pieces of clothing to cover your blocked part that could almost melt at the slightest contact. She took pieces of ruby in her hand, contemplating herself with them for a second, before returning them to your right hand, in several attempts. Zafiro's movement is reduced, though no more than yours, it seems that hers is permanent. She usually leaves drag marks on the floor where other repair pieces are deposited. Pink padparadscha pieces are deposited in those places, too heavy to fuse with you even if you're awake. Zafiro murmured, then asked the void.
(Zafiro) "The color and hardness proper to a sapphire". How much damage did I cause you because of me, Padparadscha? And you, Ruby? For me, combat was never everything, nor the glow or the hardness, nor the sacrifice. I know that somewhere in their hearts they made it clear. Dolomite… If only I had finished the work of a combat gem… Everything… What I always sought to destroy was always so close. But now it's too late.
>She remained static for several seconds, and then a few more. As if she had suddenly lost mobility, Sapphire leaned more and more, but without a clear target, as if swaying involuntarily. After mentioning other gems, she fell not far from you, exhausted. She had the reaction and strength enough to turn her face away from the ground. Glowing with a deep red, it seemed her blue was fading and being consumed by the glow of the mantle flow in the distance. Although she couldn't see you, and although her head wasn't aligned directly with you, she still seemed attentive to your condition. She turned her left shoulder and leaned on that stump in an attempt to get up.
(Zafiro) Anatasa liked to talk a lot about you.
>She told you as soon as she managed it. Her glow also seemed to have reattached, for the red had turned into a deep violet that accompanied both your improvement and hers. In that way, when you could finally move your arms and legs, even if they were still numb, getting in front of Sapphire became a possibility. Even if the mention of Anatasa clarified or not what happened, an event shattered your perfect vision of her destroyed body. Pieces of black corundum slid from behind Sapphire, like remnants of a firm mineral, cut into sheets. Part of Sapphire's hair had the same color and texture.
(Zafiro) It seems that in reality, inclusions tend to collect all kinds of impurities. But, since I can't control anything outside or inside me, or gather strength, I can't defend myself from this infection. Chrysoberyl taught me very well how to repair someone else. Even so, I had my doubts. (...) Oh, there it is. You're clearing out my weakened inclusions from yourself. It's magnificent control of silica. Although I didn't expect you to do it through the mouth. Did you want to scare me?
>Returning your gaze downward, you could see how the same type of black corundum was lodging itself, condensing layer by layer in your left arm. Unlike how Sapphire seemed to wear out from the overload of impurities, your inclusions accepted their replacement parts naturally. Thus, from one moment to the next, a strange material rose from within your active inclusions and accumulated at the base of your head. As part of an unacquired and unpleasant reflex, you began to spit out that sandy material that was obstructing your tongue with a bitter taste. Sapphire laughed briefly with tranquility. She seemed to ignore the fact that the pile of clay in front of you was too much material to have come from the still-pending repair of the rest of your limbs. It moved, expanding and contracting on the ground.

>>2341
(New) Human families, gem families, am I the only one who will remain alone in this room? No, I can't feel envy. Because Lamme is much younger than me after all! Intelligence develops with age! Maybe the cake tastes better to those with higher IQs. Of course, that means several here were negligent with their development, jojo. Just tell me! How does it feel to be part of someone else?
>After making her frustration evident, New closes her eyes and shakes her head. Immediately, she takes and strokes Lamme's head, both as a way to show affection and to assert importance thanks to her age. As a white human, her age range is between 0 and 150 years. Although her three parts together possess hundreds of thousands of years, technically Lamme's birth barely spans a tiny amount of time. Tasting part of the cake as well, she easily hides her bitter response and aftertaste with a smile. It doesn't seem like any human besides her wants to take the same thing to their mouth, though it has nothing to do with her race being different from New's. (...) The combat human approaches to stop the gem that pierced all the advanced controls of the Metacortex to reach this house. However, as if affected by an inhuman pressure, each of the humans is reduced in both height and width and transfigured into small forms almost identical to insects. One of the several crystals floating on the sides of the so-called "Onyx" turns black and crumbles as if disintegrating. Immediately another emerges from the ground to replace the previous one as the black-and-white gem responds with false vulnerability.
(Gidc) Onyx, you finally rebelled against the Cortex! Prepare yourself-!
(Onyx) Please don't call me that, you could create an opening in me.
(Spectrolite) No, no, no! D-don't go. I haven't handed out souvenir keychains yet.
>Humans have two states they access involuntarily: the first is compaction, which allows housing hundreds of millions in a single level of the Cortex, and the second is vaporization, or annihilation, which ensures that humans turn into pink smoke and never return to their original form. Onyx forced the first. Taking several of the small humans in her hands, Spectrolite still spoke to them while worrying about everything except the new threat in front of you. Gems cannot be affected so easily by sound weapons or whatever Onyx is floating alongside her, so for now Spectrolite is your only ally. Before exposing the reason for her visit, or before launching any other offensive even, the unknown gem now in front of you got distracted by the insects displacing Spectrolite. Her mannerisms and way of speaking correspond almost to that of a child, although her appearance says otherwise.
(Onyx) Don't they look funny? Like little balls of ants crawling out of the depths of their nest, chasing something sweet. Tiny, tiny, very tiny. That's their true form. Unbelievable! How can such weak beings withstand this pressure? Obviously, they're cheating. May I? What shall I take...? I hope it's not important.
>Espectrolita holds two of the three black beetles in her hands; the third, along with what looks like a white cockroach, stay on the ground much closer to Onyx's reach. It's obvious which is which based on their color, since even though you can't identify any of the first three, the white one is clearly New. Onyx shrinks down just to try and grab the white insect in her hands, or tear a piece off it. She was there for several seconds, making hand gestures, hesitating, but eventually turning her gaze back to you. Noticing that Espectrolita was trying to gather the third one, she surprises her with a quick question.
(Onyx) I asked you how funny they are!
(Espectrolita) Um.. Ah! Well... They're very cute. They let me gather them in their home. And thanks to them, the three sisters found out what to do-
(Onyx) That's not what I meant. A show, something fun! They're the perfect height to control little action figures, or puppets! Do you have experience as a director? No, I think the best would be to use your ugly clothes as costume material; it would be unlimited. And we'll have three cameras! Should we attach magnifying lenses? If so, they could act, dramatically. With the right focus, tragedies can also be funny. Entertainment, for the next 100 years!
>The answer Onyx got clearly disappointed her, but she didn't take long to cheer herself up, clearly exposing her ideas. With a second crack of one of the crystals around Onyx, the humans fell out of Espectrolita's hands, cracking part of them, as if a great mass had taken hold of each of the small animals. Gathering everyone with her arms, Onyx kept all her attention on the miniature humans. Every now and then she would lift her head to receive feedback with a smile. But, if it wasn't the crystals reacting to her movements, it was a thin metallic layer on the wall that slowly seemed to take over the edges of the room. Before crushing the humans on the floor, Onyx directed her gaze at both of them and seemed moved for an instant. She lowered her head in apology and stepped back, thoughtful.
(Onyx) I'm sorry… The gems I used to share with didn't seem to care about human life or integrity. It seems I've absorbed something from them… (...) To be honest, I'm shocked. I didn't expect you to be able to look like this, old Amber. I wondered what would happen if a thoughtless gem or a Peridot forced the three of us to merge again. The answer is right in front of me and… She's so full of hope! So much that I'm going to melt. Thank you! For being who you are and how you've been until now. From now on, can you lend me your strength?
>It took her a while, but she finally addressed Lamme with full awareness of her original self. Her contempt was only temporary because immediately, she began expressing herself joyfully. She stretched her arms in happiness and seemed fascinated just by saying those words. She celebrated all of them, except Spectrolite, as if she were a fanatic. When they could see the walls on the sides, one of them was already perfectly bathed in a strange metal; the second would only take a few minutes to complete. Onyx, showing off her bipolarity, quickly changed her expression and began judging them with a gloomy air.
(Onyx) The three of you are extremely selfish… Keeping such a captivating ability for personal use is so, so rude. Didn't you think about the others!? There are gems that could have been saved, deep in the Crust, or up there. A delicate gem who believes in fairy tales. It's nothing to you, is it, Amber? I know you're there! Are you? Maybe… well, no. It's a fact that you abandoned your daughters, so it's not strange that they grew up on the wrong side of morality. But I'll fix it now! I can be their sister, or their mother if you want! Choose!
>She screamed at them and pointed at each one individually, even though they were united as one. Onyx began acting erratically, unable to fully distinguish whether she was speaking to you as Lamme or as your predecessor. She gives up immediately and then shamelessly exposes you. The crystals behind her spin like an hourglass before Onyx steps back, hand palm to her chest. After trying to approach you, creating an artificial bond, Onyx feels more confident in speaking. Her open palm turned into a fist that pushed inward more and more until it began to shed part of its material.
(Onyx) I just need you to accompany me to the surface. I'll do whatever it takes, but before that, you will merge with three other gems. That will save you, do you understand? I don't care how much I have to scream! I no longer care about my body or yours. But if it's to end everything, I… I.
(...)
(Hawk Eye) Altering the mechanics of the inclusions means changing the composition of the world. It is possible that, as a result of the salvation of 42 trillion humans, everything ends in extinction, both for gems and other forms of life based on inclusions. The quantum field that sustains the inclusions obeys a principle of irreproducibility. Alterations to the inclusions could be irreversible, therefore, it is vital to comprehend the magnitude of the delay in the disintegration of protons. (...) Amber, are you still there? It means you heard me.
>The rest of the recording seemed to be just the young director of the research center voicing her theories on video. That was until Amber's silhouette became the clear image of Amber. Facing Hawk Eye, Amber appears large and ancient, sufficiently developed as a gem to project a maternal image. That is from her point of view, though Hawk Eye seems to care little or nothing that a new gem has shown her face. She returned to her screen, flipping through one document or another before asking a question.
(Hawk Eye) Would you endure living sharing someone else's body? If we are talking about possibilities, there are several that do not involve extinction. Other forms of life could arise from our bodies. For example, if remnants of our memories survive, just as nature has adapted to our eternity, then you could take possession of a true biological body after a wait of millions and millions of years. It is not a matter of patience… You will only need to worry more about your integrity, two or three times, at minimum.
(...)
>Even long ago, there were several gems who worried more about the shape of the world than the individual. But remembering or not that recording is useless. New returned to Spectrolite, who felt too much fear to fully observe Onyx shedding pieces of herself. The insects have enough space to hide inside her after all. Without waiting for a response, Onyx let the metal she probably brought or controls generate structures that connected behind her. Rooted in mid-air, the iron expanded and consumed the ambient light to transform an object in the middle of the room. What emerged was a crystal so clear it resembled pure quartz glass. With a tone increasingly prone to trying to harm you, Onyx lifted and gently pushed one of her nearby crystals toward you. It began to blacken.
(Onyx) Amber, you are not the first gem I have asked for help. And for that very reason, I know that even if I got it, you would not take long to be disappointed in me. In response, I have had to figure it out, again and again and again. You are broken, split into 3 parts, and I… do not need the parts of you that are unwilling to cooperate.

>>2342
(Tara) D-don't say that. It makes me feel bad! It's not urine, okay? Even if every animal in the world dumped its waste into lakes and rivers, my composition is pure, clear, and pristine. And if it weren't! There'd be no problem, because I'm also a foreigner. I can have my own culture and customs, and they'd have to tolerate it. If I had to choose between the Fog Festival and the Poop Festival to celebrate my arrival, I wouldn't have a preference. That pure am I.
>You caught her off guard with your comment at the exact moment Uranofano gave Tara a receptacle to deposit her tea. She's usually quite shy, so whether you were there or not, she would've turned around to refill the receptacle. Now, in front of your gaze, she has to explain herself nervously and desperately. However, her explanation, rather than clarifying what happened, seems to turn into a kind of justification, taking into account the customs of other gem lands and how she herself is a complete land of Taras. After all, Tara's mythology comes from a place that cares little or nothing about hygiene. In the end, secretly, away from Tara's gaze, Uranofano poured the tea onto the ground, wishing the plants would grow healthy and strong. With Alexandrita appearing before you, Tara finally seems to process your long list of prefixes. After surprising and scaring herself, she points at them with feigned courage.
(Tara) Eh... I hadn't thought of it that way... There are many, many old and ancient gems, but none are as old as me. Does that make me the oldest? No! I've never had so much responsibility before, I can't handle the pressure. Alright! Better you treat my cousins well or I won't introduce you to them.
(Uranofano) Did you hear that, Alex? It turns out if you add up the age of all the gems Tara rescued and her own, they're almost as old as the sun.
(Alexandrita) Oh, is that true? Calling Tara old must make my master feel younger. You, Urano-! You're as bright as the sun. So adorable.
>To impress Alexandrita, Uranofano exaggerates; the sum of hundreds of times hundreds of thousands of years doesn't make billions of years. For now, anyway, no one would notice the difference between millions or billions of years. So according to what she says about you, Alexandrita, as long as you stay by Tara's side, you could appear much younger than you actually are. Although she doesn't intend to say otherwise, it seems Alexandrita has to start better retouching the subtext of her declarations. She and Uranofano get along so well that Alexandrita completely loses her serious and honorable style when celebrating her. Not long after, Alexandrita goes behind Tara, wipes her face with some of her hot steam, and returns ready to bow before you again. Feeling the proud pressure on both of her shoulders as the sword touches her. Alexandrita comments in a serene voice with her eyes closed.
(Alexandrita) I have completed my journey; finally, I receive recognition. But that is not what a knight seeks. Soon I will be part of the Gem Combat Council, even without the rank of Master. And they said learning special moves was useless. I swear, I will remain faithful to my position. If necessary, I will leave my heart behind and fight in a clinical, cold manner. To achieve this, I will have to hug you three times more than usual, Master! But, those are not the ways of a knight. I will protect the gems and the lives of organic beings until the day I extinguish, and my beauty.
(Tara) Ceremonial swords? Is this the use they give to elephant tusks? It's a bit cruel... But. Y-yes, since I am a goddess. And both Taaffeite and Alexandrita consider me so. I will let it pass under a full day of veneration. How much mercy.
>Beyond her slightly joking remarks, Alexandrita's investiture proceeds exactly as she had described in her fantasy. She is extremely excited, to the point that when she opens her eyes and looks straight at you, her resistance to containing the emotion is very little, and she extends her arms toward you. She denies herself with pride, impatience, and joy, and finally culminates her ceremony by rising after the order. Uranofano observed and repeated to herself several of the words that were said, as if she were engraving what happened onto herself. Tara, for her part, finally pays real attention to the ornamental sword, however, she does not take long to get lost in the adjectives with which it was previously described. It seems to be an effective technique against Nimbireos, for, according to Tara's words, it seems that Avalok also liked to overvalue himself above any human or gem hierarchy.
(...)
>Tara's distraction was effective; she seemed content by Uranofano's side, and indeed, they seem to complement each other. In the presence of the dense fog generated by Tara, Uranofano's harmful effect on the flowers and plants is calmed, albeit a little. From now on, it was just a single problem to solve before starting the celebration. Regarding what happened in the morning, with Blue Diamond being almost a supporter of Pink Diamond's liberation, Tara decided to accompany you to the medical area, although she knew there weren't many gems there; she seemed interested in a single thing. On the opposite side of the inactive blue gem room, an internal corridor runs and sinks into the earth, creating an extensive basement at its bottom. Before rescuing its interior, Pink Diamond has to deal with a Tara so agitated she could boil from the emotion she feels, although she has no real reason behind her anger.
(Tara) Do you think you're tough? Well, you haven't known the fury of a divinity. And yes, I tell you there is a goddess right now in this room. I will make sure you tell us what you have to tell us, even if I have to use the cruelest methods of all, the Nimbireos. Don't force me to destroy you and scatter you across the world, Pink Diamond!

>>2351
(Uranofano) You haven't asked her anything yet, Tara.
(Tara) What no! Um... Did I not? Oh, I got it. Do you remember when you used to visit me to threaten me alongside Rutilo so many years ago? She had a particular hairstyle. Now that I'm as strong as Avy, I've lost some dexterity. Tell me, does it look the same? And like this?
>No nimbeireo you've ever known is a symbol of torture, violence, or rage. On the contrary, Tara recounted how Avalok was usually depicted as a compassionate being. For now, after Uranofano interrupts Tara, she finally forgets her attempt at a threat. Although I'd like to help her, Rose Diamond has no way to do so. Gems often change their hairstyles, but since Tara is 1000 of them in one, it's almost certain that even if Rose Diamond is certain of an exact style, it will be the same nimbeireo refuting her. As soon as you take a step inside the descending stairs, the door behind you closes. Turning around, you see Amethyst placing a special lock, slightly anxious. She quickly greets you, gives an explanation, and proceeds to calm herself by patting the edges of her dress.
(Amethyst) I wasn't rude, right? I thought that if I heard Tara again, I'd fall asleep automatically. Fortunately, it didn't happen. Both Chrysoberyl and I like the atmosphere in the medical area to be pleasant. It's for that kind of thing that I decided to try twice as hard. Alright! Here it is.
(Rose Diamond) I don't recognize this type of pyroclast. It's not one that Rutilo or I created. Pyroclasts store the essence of 3rd-type humans. But, by its composition... Maybe it's bold, but I think it could contain some of the melted gems that Peridot created. I... Anyway, I'd be careful with it.
>As a medical gem, Amethyst has begun to live under a certain pressure. She was formed with a character that mimics Purple Topaz in terms of elegance, but she is slightly nervous and hasty. Those last two traits you had already identified many months ago, the day she arrived. It's fascinating to see her express herself correctly after intensive classes with Andalusite. When the stairway tour ends, in front of you, locked in a crystal cage that encloses an unbreakable elastic membrane from inside an android, itself hidden in a wooden box, the pyroclast that Aquamarine delivered this morning lies in temporary display, prior to study or experimentation. It was vital for Rose Diamond to see it to gather information, of course, but for that, the presence of a veteran gem like you was also necessary. Although the identification of the metallic pyroclast leads to nothing, it's effective that someone is in charge of confirming that Rose Diamond was perfectly secured inside the earth and outside the fog of the festival. Following protocol, Amethyst began to physically examine Rose Diamond. It's at that moment that, catching a glimpse of you, she calls out.
(Amethyst) Taaffeite! You've put on that face again. Do you know it's rude? If you keep staring at Rose Diamond like that, your face will wrinkle and it'll be complicated for me to smooth it out.
(Diamond Rose) Amethyst, please stop.
(Amethyst) I have been learning a lot on this island. But the gems of this island also have much to learn from us. Gems like Rose, Obsidian, Ruby, and I are more sensitive than any others. I will lock up this pair of "pyroclasts," but I will do so with respect.
>While the review continued, ignoring what Diamond Rose said, Amethyst spoke to you about ancient gems like herself. She seemed visually annoyed by your gestures, though unconscious ones. When Amethyst finished, she tilted her head in resignation, took the wooden box containing the pyroclast, and headed toward the exit, climbing the stairs to leave it in a safe place, exchanging her confinement with that of Diamond Rose. Naturally, for a few minutes, you were now alone with Diamond Rose. She, though having a lowered face, did not hesitate to follow your gaze with hers to say.
(Diamond Rose) I am also unforgivable. That I could cause pain to several gems speaks better of their community than of me. (...) Tell me, Taaffeite, is there anything you have wanted to change recently? It is important for gems to pursue a goal beyond their capabilities. I wanted to help them, but I was overwhelmed by my own errors, accumulated year after year. Currently, I would not know how to answer that question, but I am not suffocating, and I believe that is good. I will be ready for the moment when you decide I can create something new.
(...)
>Rose was positive, as positive as a defeated gem can be. After you confirmed she could not cause trouble, it was finally time to meet again in the medical area's reception with Tara. But there, arriving like burning ash, Tanzanite approached, knocking down any other objective to almost exclaim with an alert voice. She points at you firmly. Then, at the moment of explaining, she scratches one of her cheeks with some embarrassment. After imitating a deep voice that definitely isn't Padparadscha's, she exclaims again and takes you by the sides of your arms to try to shake you, though it is futile. With Tara present, she thanks Tanzanite's information in a particular way. Tanzanite observes her with eyes of wide displeasure, but is considerate and formally rejects that glorified attitude.
(Tanzanite) !!Taaffeite!! !!Taaff taff!! !!What is happening to Padparadscha?! !!You should know! I was about to start my routine harassment until I was rejected, treated with a bitterness I haven't felt in years. A-and then. Again, she softened her expression as if saying "I'll break you in the way I trained only for you". !!But it wasn't like I imagined!! I escaped through a window. I, now, need to see you cracked to project my tension and stress. !!I don't care that most have gathered waiting for Tara!!
(Tara) Are my faithful already ready? I have to go! Yes, I will go with calm and patience. Since I am a divinity, in gratitude, I will allow you to dismantle my self-regenerating body instead of Taaffeite's, gem Tanzanite. That will be your blessing for today.
(Tanzanite) ... No, I'll pass for today.

>>2343
>One by one, the androids form based on their creation codes. They leap out of Dumortierite as if your words started a countdown to their destruction. They are loyal to that extent, because they truly carry a controller that can explode all their bones except the head, which is the most important part of an android, its only inclusion. Dumortierite cleans the dirt from her clothes with innate patience. Despite appearing to have fallen hundreds of meters, she looks impeccable. The interior of the Meths reduces damage; you know that well. However, not only the Meths, but also the Emeths that launched against her. None of them actually inflicted any deep wound worthy of repair. Your words cut through her inventory review. She turns to you with a rhetorical question. While fixing her hair again, she assures. She starts with a sort of riddle, but in her unpredictable way, she is also unable to answer it. She leans in, with the index finger of the opposite side to where she points with her face and generates a theory, perhaps not so far-fetched.
(Dumortierite) Do you think I'm cute? You repeat it so much it could almost be a certainty. For me, it's much easier to look precious lately. Do you know why, Leucosapphire? I don't either. But it would be interesting if it were because of you that all the gems of the Crust became more concerned with their appearance. As if they feared being wrapped by your judgment and in that way shared styles that favor your tastes. Could statistics give us the answer? I wouldn't be surprised if it were true. Unlike humans, our gem culture has always been very superficial. And I, I am a very superficial gem, but that's not why I'm so unhappy.
>It's after the second question that you notice her line of conversation is an attempt to appeal to your superficial gem side. Casually, she shrugs her shoulders while commenting on the nature of both. She ends with a declaration about herself, turning on one of her many screens in clear everydayness. The Meth beneath you reacts by spinning on its own axis, so you can see how it finally turns its face. It retracts its tongue and smiles like any other known Emeth, as if it were ready to receive orders again. It doesn't seem that the use of Dumortierite's screen and the activity of the Meth are related, since both acted out of sync. When you caught Dumor's attention again, she was putting the parts of her screen back inside her clothes again. Upon hearing you, she opened her eyes with a certain index of impression. She returned her gaze to normal and with a quick movement imitated the Emeths and their formation, raising a straight salute over her citrine head. Her tone was direct, but her message was slightly absurd.
(Dumortierite) Understood, Captain. Committing to a cause is an incredibly difficult task, and considering my situation, I appreciate your favoritism. Therefore! I will forget all incidents from our encounter. Just... Let me have my revenge on a single android. The third one to your right, who stole my screen protector with the bear film. Please. If this condition makes loving you more complicated, then I will completely reject your love! It is non-negotiable.
>When you turned to your right, you could see it: an android with a pair of brown ears protruding from its mouth, easily belonging to an ornament very characteristic of Dumortierite; it had poor taste for such a small and adorable thing. More importantly, Dumortierite had paraphrased part of your words, declaring a kind of deal. Not regarding her crimes, nor her general work as a gem; she completely ignored that topic and focused instead on the relationship she had with you. Dumortierite stopped playing, discarding that uncharacteristic tone of hers, more like Heliolite or other straighter gems. She didn't return to her usual attitude, but seemed slightly dimmer. She raised one hand as if trying to touch her bangs, but ended up rubbing part of her forehead in a gesture of intellectual defeat.
(Dumortierite) You have a very great responsibility; I'm sure your objective is of the same magnitude. In comparison, my random goals are insignificant. It's also frustrating for me. Even with all my intelligence, I wasn't able to create a master plan to save you or my sister. On the contrary, it seems I don't care anymore... My mind has been so clouded that my most recent goal was simply to feel faithful to myself again.
>She lifted her gaze toward the ceiling, as if the weight of her head had found a new center of gravity. Above there is nothing but a gigantic hole from which Meth emerged, like a gigantic inverted funnel. Even if it eventually collapses, the rock quality is so poor that both of us would simply end up covered in dust if the androids on the ground don't stop the landslide first. After all, Meth's trail isn't perfect; it's almost chaotic. Dumortierite didn't seem like someone who cared about insignificant details like a small detour in her trajectory, but seeing her, you could notice her eyes were narrowed. Shaking off a huge senseless disgust, she looked at you again and, using a cheerful yet resigned tone, declared.
(Dumortierite) The Crust took my sister, my teacher, and my life from me. I lost all freedom when I fell here, and also lost the ability to break myself. I gave you my body, and under your protection, something wore down deep within my inclusions. I should hate you or I should loathe the Crust, but I can't. Instead, I dedicated my life to favoring Peridotite; I sacrificed my body by eliminating hundreds of thousands of humans. I love you to the point of pain, to the extent that I could kiss your feet again, or dedicate years to creating something you could appreciate minimally, or absolutely nothing.

>>2353
>Two or three times, within a three-minute span, Dumortierita brought her left hand to her neck and rubbed the point where her citrine head connects to her body of original material. Partly, no matter how animated she was at the start, halfway through the conversation, her words felt like that very thing. Dumortierita acted as if she felt a present discomfort and had to discreetly eliminate it bit by bit. Regardless, that does not entirely negate the meaning of her words, for, ignoring the presence of the Emeths, she blinked outside her field of vision as if awkwardly avoiding your gaze. She closed her eyes and took hold of her neck with the fullness of her left hand. Pressing down not at all, she released her grip by sliding her fingers down to the base of her body and over her chest. Dumortierita continued, shedding all secondary actions.
(Dumortierita) Even though I always feel an immense clarity, that devotion is the only thing I cannot explain with logic. I can only theorize that my sister's love transformed toward you, or that my loyalty to the Academy, my dream of becoming stronger, and my sense of sacrifice aligned with human interests. Whatever the outcome, all implies that my heart rotted in some way. And that right now, the foundation of my actions also bends under that same irrationality. It is impossible not to feel defeated.
>In an attempt to demonstrate the depth of her words, Dumortierita returned her screen to magnetize around her. It only took a few taps for her to be ready the moment she approached you to show you. The screen had no bear filter, nor anything like it; instead, the camera seemed contained within the interior of an android. There was no audio, but the view of the tall grass and the lake beside a white structure effectively determined a position, not just on the surface, but within the Crystalline Earth. Even during the day, it was possible to observe several moons, or artificial satellites lost in the azure of the sky under Tara's protection. Before you could see anyone or anything, Dumortierita called out to you, showing an attentive expression; she was closer at the moment of asking.
(Dumortierita) Leucosapphire, you haven't experienced it, have you? Being completely emptied out? From the first million humans exterminated, cracking seems like a tiny tickle. Eventually, it turns into a sharp, deep pain in the chest. Then, the experiences vary greatly. Like drinking a mortal poison that corrodes you from within, or slowly transforming into leaves and flowers; the latter is perversely pleasant. Each release takes something so fundamental from my memories. An example is my perception of time. I think I am much more like Peridotite or Tara than I should be. I know I will live too long, and therefore, I can understand why Rutile needed to disappear soon. I wish I could manifest impatience, but I don't even have that luck. (...) (...)
>She leaned from one side toward your position, but it was merely a coincidence. So far, Dumor hadn't noticed the damage on the side of your face, so he reflexively inspected the device Peridoto had gifted you. Halfway through his words, he stopped invading your space and completely sealed his screen. He turned in place and placed his hands behind his back. The series of skills, weaknesses, and characteristics he described were all laid out as if he were talking about his sword-combat style. Even though you had finished listening, Dumortierita kept moving her lips. Her silent words confused your senses, but not those of the nearby Emeths, who began reacting directly to what Dumortierita said or didn't say.
(Emeth12) Suspicion in retreat. But a long interrogation is still needed—three years.
(Emeth31) It's a reconciliation. The fraternity between gems is so intense. I can't fulfill my mission!
(Dumortierita) Unlike humans, unlike gems—probably excepting Fluorite—androids observe the world solely through their inclusions. For them, our conversation is just one of many resonances. Who would've thought it would be so easy to deceive them. Tell me, I bet you can think of countless ways to profit from it.
>Hawk Eye had mentioned it in the past, as one of the many deterrent methods they tried to apply to convince or alter Fluorite. Emitting frequencies only she could hear worked to a certain extent, as Fluorite's behavior over the years began to become erratic. Instability translates to danger, at least regarding that gem. For Dumortierita, the effect is the opposite. She experiences a significant improvement in her attitude, immediately forgetting to attend to your reaction to everything she said about herself. Dumortierita finally smiles at you again, treating her desensitization as a side effect of salvation as a transient matter. She accepts your favor toward Peridotita, but doesn't seem willing to surrender directly. As usual for her now, Dumortierita tries to take a detour. She used various rumors to focus positively.
(Dumortierita) I'm sure that when Chrysocolla is here, we'll have many more topics to discuss. But in the meantime, I've been thinking of ways to remain unpunished in this situation; I came up with them all in parallel while telling you about my colic. The first is that I could say I was forced by Hawk Eye to perform a radiofrequency test that went wrong. Or what about Peridoto? Do you picture her threatening us with a knife? Begging for Peridotita's forgiveness shouldn't be so hard. Carnelian and you are quite lazy. It seems strange that she hasn't forced them to act directly against the Academy until today. Is Carnelian yielding her more than just her health? Her body? That would be extraordinary.

>>2347

You're right, I'm by your side because I love you, I don't have any secret plans to overthrow you and take control. Ha, ha, ha! What a silly idea? Are you kidding me?

>She leaned back with her hand on her chest and a surprised look
>Looking suspiciously around before laughing nervously
>Taaffeita has no plans to be a leader or overthrow anyone in the crystalline world
>In fact, she agrees with several of the new policies that have emerged under the mandate of Topacio púrpura
>Which is obvious, since otherwise she wouldn't have supported him for so many years
>No matter how long she stays as leader, Taaffeita plans to stay by Topacio púrpura's side until she herself gets tired

But of course I want to be liked! It's important to all of us, including you, right? Or were you the one who said you wanted to receive more attention from the younger ones?

>Without hesitation or thinking, Taaffeita nodded at Antofilita's statement with a certain pride
>Then she pointed at Antofilita while remembering a certain request she herself had made
>Wanting to be observed and respected by others is a natural desire for beings like them
>There's nothing wrong in admitting such things, nor any reason to be ashamed
>So there's no reason why Antofilita shouldn't take Esfena as an apprentice
>Her harshness and Antofilita's don't differ much from each other, and the small differences would be compensated with some practice
>Moreover, showing her work up close is a good way to earn the respect of anyone
>While Taaffeita tried to convince Antofilita through a more gentle approach, Topacio púrpura chose a more abrupt path
>Which proved to be effective, as Antofilita soon accepted, ending this matter

Check the second drawer of her closet, maybe you'll find clues about her next tyrannical plan!

>With nothing left to discuss, Taaffeita continued with her work of rebuilding
>She still had several things to figure out on how to do it correctly
>But after some trial and error along with the previous advice from Antofilita, she was able to accomplish it
>While she was busy with that, she heard Rubí's voice
>Shouting then from behind Topacio púrpura, encouraging her to rummage through her things
>There's nothing interesting in that drawer apart from clothes and some ornaments
>But it will serve to please Rubí's curiosity

Assimilation... container... I wonder how Fluorita would feel about all of that. I have quite a bit of faith that she won't do anything consciously, but at the same time I have doubts about her unconscious self... She is a rather "peculiar" gem after all. It's hard for me to imagine how to proceed with what little we know, you're really a great leader for being able to think so much.

>When Taaffeita looks at the current Fluorita, she doesn't see any monster capable of causing harm
>Instead, she only sees a young gem that needs to be protected, at the same time, she sees the shadow of the old leader
>Someone she didn't always agree with, but who she respected nonetheless
>However, there's a third Fluorita, of which she's only able to imagine things
>Sally the lunar queen, a name she wouldn't know if it weren't for Tara
>Fluorita isn't human, there's no doubt about that, she would never accuse her of such a thing
>Still, Taaffeita can't help but wonder about the influence of that distant side on Fluorita's psyche
>Thinking about such topics is exhausting and definitely she wouldn't know how to solve them
>Which only makes her appreciate Topacio púrpura's work even more, whom she hugs as a sign of gratitude

>>2351

Really? Maybe we should change its name. (...) You don't have to worry about that, forty-fifth cousin. With your age, it would be better if we let us help. Is the humidity of the room enough for you? What about the air? Do you want me to fan you? Maybe I can help you with your waste.

>I accept with a serious face the proposal to change the name of the festival
>Turning then, both towards Tara and Uranofano to see what they thought
>Once she finished having fun with Tara's reaction, she would forget about the topic
>Although she wouldn't stop bothering her
>Returning the previous joke, Taaffeita would start treating her like an old lady with health problems
>Feigning various fake cares that went from fanning her, to handing her various containers for her waste
>Even trying to change the humidity of the room through sublimation

What are you talking about? I'm still quite young. Do you want me to prove it by putting myself in your place? (...) Not at all, you have to train both your body and your heart. What do you think hugs are for? Oh, is this ivory? Mmm, not a bad material for something like that, I suppose.

>Taaffeita still has a long way to go before reaching the millennium. Which in gem terms would translate to an age younger than middle-aged
>In other words, she's in the prime of her youth. At least that's what she proclaims while showing off her shine
>Young or not, she has more than enough skill to kick Alexandrita's ass if she keeps up with those jokes
>Something she makes sure to make clear by striking a combat pose as a warning
>After finishing the naming ritual, Taaffeita gives Alexandrita another kind of warning
>Asking her not to abandon her heart in pursuit of getting stronger
>She'll have to give her extra hug lessons if she does
>Like Tara, Taaffeita hadn't paid much attention to the material of the sword
>Examining it from end to end once she found out, then giving her approval

>>2352

We don't need you to destroy her...

>All the energy she had was lost as she approached the medical room
>Once they arrived and she was in the presence of Pink Diamond, her face turned into a bitter expression
>She leaned against the wall closest to the entrance and stared off to the side
>Supervising is the only thing she would do; she had no intention of saying anything during this conversation
>However, Tara's terrible interrogation methods forced her to intervene
>Destroying and scattering Pink Diamond would make it impossible to get any kind of testimony from her
>No matter how little she likes it, she is forced to admit they need her presence and fortitude

Matis, don't compare yourself or your sisters to her. I'll take care of my face; you focus on what you have to do.

>Taaffeita's frown got worse as soon as she heard Amethyst
>Again she had to put up with one of her sisters and her pity for Pink Diamond
>Worse still, Amethyst was seeking a false sense of unity between her own and the prisoner
>Disgusted by that, she asked her to refrain from making that kind of comment
>After saying that, she bit the tip of her lower lip; she didn't want to be interpreted as a hostile gem by the others.
>She wanted even less to make a scene like what happened recently with Green Diamond.
>With a very fake smile, she asked her not to worry about her and turned her face back toward a corner of the room.
>It would be better for everyone if she simply returned to her passive contemplation.

...

>The rest left, leaving Taaffeita alone with Pink Diamond.
>She glanced over at her to make sure she wouldn't do anything, then ignored her again.
>Silence reigned in the room, permeating the air with a certain tension.
>Far from feeling uncomfortable, Taaffeita acted like someone simply waiting.
>She acknowledged Pink Diamond's presence with occasional glances.
>But for the rest of the time, she behaved as if no one else were in this room.
>If things had continued like that, Taaffeita could have left in a relatively calm state.
>However, Pink Diamond had to speak...

"You... don't act at all like a prisoner. You say you're not suffocating? Do you think your stay here is some kind of vacation? It's precisely that attitude that makes the others feel sorry for you. They think we're forbidding one of our own from interacting, but you're not one of us! You never will be! Your true identity is and will be that of a gem who was an accomplice in the suffering and disappearance of others like us. That even knowing everything you did, you try to get along with us seems utterly repulsive. (...) Pink Diamond, if it were up to me, we would have thrown you into a distant island long ago.

>Free from the presence of the others, Taaffeita was able to express her absolute disgust toward Pink Diamond.
>She no longer had to fake smiles, no longer had to hold back comments; she could say whatever she wanted.
>So, she stood firm in front of her, fist clenched, her head releasing numerous steam trails.
>The truth is, she hates Pink Diamond. She hates how little Pink Diamond takes her captivity seriously, hates how cooperative she is, hates seeing her fraternize with others.
>Rutilo is an unforgivable monster in Taaffeita's eyes, but she, unlike Pink Diamond, understood her place.
>She knew she was the villain in the eyes of the Crystal Gems and played her role with pleasure.
>She hates Rutilo much more than she hates Pink Diamond.
>However, the repulsion she feels toward Pink Diamond is much greater.
>She can't stand seeing her pitiful face, can't stand seeing her seek forgiveness, and above all...
>She abhors her desire for connection. Maybe the others think differently; maybe they are capable of forgiving her.
>But not Taaffeita; she will not accept her as one of her own, and never will.

...

Didn't you hear? Parasch recovered from her daze; she's back to being the old Padparadscha of before. Aren't you happy? Ani... I'm not in the best of moods either. You can crack my hand if you want, but if you go too far then... Well, I suppose you'll find out soon enough.

It's still early, but since I doubt I'll be sending more shifts this year, I wish you happy holidays.

>>2349
The fact that I can be useful just by existing makes things very easy for me. I choose to be happy about that.
>It's good to hear that I don't seem desperate to leave. Although since arriving at the crust, she's viewed her stay as temporary, she tries not to lose patience until she finishes what she has pending and can get out.
>She undresses and cautiously submerges in the water, attentive to any gesture from Falcon that might indicate she's uncomfortable sharing her bath space with her, but the gem is unexpressive.
I thought that when I arrived. On the surface, a puddle not connected to the ocean doesn't carry things anywhere else.
>That includes pieces of gems like Onyx, Kunzite, and Cyanite. The memory of the little time she spent looking for their remains underwater with Chrysocolla hits her so unexpectedly that Falcon's rear surprises her even more.
Hmmm... T-that was Bellita. Didn't you recognize her voice? Although it's true that the gems that are heavier up here intimidate me and the ones that aren't seem more... comforting. But I don't think that's information I needed to share.
>It becomes harder to look Falcon directly in the eyes, but having her behind her back where she can't see her doesn't solve her discomfort.
If Limonite knows about Fluorite, it's strange that she sent Argillite to the crust of a watery planet, if she did it on purpose. Do you think we can trust what Argillite said about her?
>That a gem resembles her to an alien's eyes doesn't tell them much. If they can trust her judgment of character more than her knowledge of frequencies and space travel, she leaves it to Falcon's discretion.
Each has different desires and attributes different values to different things. The reason why you decide to do something matters as much as what you decide to do. I've known you better than I could know any human; I don't think sharing one or two things with others makes you equal to them. Haa~.
>"The end justifies the means" is basically what he's saying, or maybe "The principles justify the means". But reducing delicate topics to short phrases steals their subtlety. Nothing is absolutely one way or another; there are different degrees and nuances, like with most things, and most things obviously become harmful when taken to an extreme, whatever that may be.
>Being against making sacrifices for the sake of others in one case doesn't mean she's against it in all cases. She herself makes some sacrifices she considers moderate and lets others sacrifice themselves if it's their own conscious decision.
>It might sound like a weak, cowardly, or indecisive stance, but doubting too much hurts her more, so she accepts it and smiles at Hawk Eye before making a sound as if she were inhaling air and sinking her head underwater.
>Feeling submerged isn't so bad; it reminds her of the habits she used to do during her last days on the surface to calm herself down.
>Underwater, there's little she can see or hear, so it's easy to feel alone when she needs to think or stabilize her emotions. It's practically the opposite of being motionless in a place with other individuals she's forced to listen to under an unnatural light too intense to ignore.
A light that shines for itself doesn't truly shine; the good of doing so is that others see you and compliment you. But it also feels good to help others shine, and it feels special to be the only gem there to compliment them when they do.
>The antagonism she felt toward the gem led her to contradict it, but as she speaks, she feels relieved to realize that even broken, she still remembers the things she least wanted to forget.
Hm, but rare gems are the most precious and interesting. I only like to joke with gems that are just cute and kind to see their reactions. Although all gems had some quirk once you knew them deeply.
>Straining to ignore how intrusive this gem was being, she argued in favor of those wretched marginalized gems with enthusiasm worthy of that rebellious gem from the past. Enthusiasm that waned again when she began to detail in her head the minute curiosities of the personalities of some of those gems.
>Kunzita was forgetful, Axinite was obsessed with the weather and the stars, her older sister Dio was tender like a younger sister and excessively worrying. They all had something unique and interesting when you knew them at a shallow depth.
You can't live for others. Even if you teach them the best you can, it depends on how they internalize and interpret your lessons. If I suffer from a mistake I made, I want the blame to be mine, just as the decision was mine. Being the owner of my own actions and mistakes would make me feel stronger than blaming someone else.
>Part of learning is making mistakes and failing several times. You can thank others for helping you grow, but at some point in your growth you have to start doing things on your own and become solely responsible for that. Blaming others is like becoming dependent on them again, the opposite of growing.
It seemed strange to me that Padparadscha cared so much about keeping pieces of gems she didn't believe would ever be repaired. Did she see more utility in using them in any other way?
>Now that they're talking about less pleasant memories, she regains the motivation to antagonize the gem who won't stop talking in depth about her private life since she met her, a few minutes ago.
I once thought about using yours to see how much I could learn from your memories, sorry about that. But if having them would help me now to tell you some things about your past, qui-
>She doesn't notice the moment the other gem falls partially broken behind her, so absorbed is she in her own monologue, and the impact against the surface surprises her less than the name she mentions.
I-I hope she liked talking so much about me in a good way, not like how other gems like to talk so much about other gems they don't like much.
>Fluorite, Rutile, and Peridotite herself are very popular gems who give plenty to talk about, but what gets said about them tends not to be so positive. Another thing they have in common is that they don't interact directly in the lives of others the way they do indirectly, and she can see similarities between these and herself, given the relatively little time she spends with others outside of work contexts. And she still cares what her sister thinks of her.
>Her tongue-twister is interrupted by the sensation of an invasive object snagging her tongue, which soon passes through her mouth and ends up in large quantities on the floor. Given the extremely strange experience of expelling excessive amounts of unknown substances, she feels her body, still in the process of repair, too delicate to move it more than to look at the gem she was talking to.
Hm... I always try to surprise and impress... Now I'm surprising myself. I've gained experience doing weird things with my mouth, I guess my body adapted to my habits... Mineral memory and all that.
>Just as she's more surprised by what's coming out of her mouth, it's less pleasant for the other gem to change part of her mineral composition again, but refusing something her inclusions have already accepted won't do her any good, and she ignores the dark mineral that is now part of her body. She's been losing her purity since she was young anyway. What's harder to accept is the impurity that separates from her body.
Isn't this going to start moving like Spudz's little figurines or what...?
>It's as much curiosity as fear that makes her want to poke the clay to check, plus she doesn't have a sword or anything similar to do it, and the semi-solid mass moves on its own before she can find one, making her almost jump back to get away from its expansion across the floor.
Is it alive? Don't tell me... this is reproduction.
>She covers her mouth more surprised than ever, trying to block the exit of more living material from her throat until someone comforts her and tells her she's wrong, that something completely different is happening.

>>2353
Maybe it's another habit acquired from the surface, so it's definitely something superficial. Back there, we used to compliment each other's appearance just to say hello. Maybe it was Taaff who told me that gems shine brighter when they're in a good mood and healthy. Do you think that's true?
>Judging what Dumor is like on the inside is harder than just judging her external appearance. Doubt that the reason for her beauty is her physical and emotional stability, but she asks anyway.
>Giving compliments occasionally is good too, for whatever reason, as long as they're not lies. From her own experience, she knows some are more likely than others to feel insecure about something like their appearance. Spending a few kind words costs little and can help a lot.
Of course... You. You don't need that, give it back.
>Responds with a sigh to Dumortierita's unserious attitude before giving an order to the android, disappointed by how she receives her words and at the same time a little relieved. If she's given an easy way out of a complicated conversation, she doesn't mind taking it to save herself trouble; she won't change what she does afterward anyway.
I knew that would happen... I can endure many things and fight for others, but not sacrifice myself. The best I could do was try to make you as happy as possible, within your circumstances. I'm sorry.
>She knew Dumortierita would end up hollowing out from the inside before even starting her salvation work, and she just let it happen, because she would benefit from it too.
>Trying to be as kind as possible during that time obviously wasn't going to make her love her, since she was responsible for her going through that in the first place.
>If the things that used to matter to her now mean nothing to her as she says, it's probably too late for it to matter how she's treated or whether she tries to save her or not.
>The opposite of Dum, her head and gaze are drawn to the dusty floor and Meth rather than the ceiling, but just like her, she finds it hard to meet her eyes.
I already appreciated what you did too much, and it makes me feel terrible to admit it. The worst part is that I probably would have loved you even if you'd never sacrificed yourself like that.
>How Dumortierita felt toward her, whether she was still capable of feeling emotions or if she decided to accept her love, was never important. She realized as soon as she started talking to her that the answers she gave wouldn't change her decision.

>>2354
It doesn't make sense to me either. I guess it's a kind of unconditional love. Even if you hadn't been the best at what you did, the most loyal, or even if you hadn't returned my feelings, I think I would have loved you anyway just for being you.
>A gem must love her master, her disciple, and her companion. Crisocolla herself may not have given such a deep meaning to that when she said it, but it ended up becoming a formative memory for her, deeply rooted in her way of being.
I have to love the world, even if the world never turns to look at me... If hearing something like that would have made you feel good before and now it makes you feel nothing, I apologize as well.
>If everything she said was sincere, and everything she had sacrificed was for her, then it was she who did not properly reciprocate Dumortierita's love, and probably never could.
I never wanted to feel it. I couldn't imagine it correctly.
>Looking up for too long to see the screen or even moving was difficult at that moment. Dumor had already said how little he appreciated physical contact, so she limited herself to grabbing her own arm as if hugging herself instead of trying to show feelings to the other gem in any way other than words or gestures. The new conversation topics wouldn't help her stabilize soon either.
I don't want to blame others. I will pray for whatever is necessary and act if needed. I also believe I haven't done enough. But you can help me, if that serves to redeem yourself before her.
>In one way or another, Dumortierita would stop doing her work of salvation from that day on; she would convince Peridotita of it if necessary. Even if there wasn't much of her disciple left to save, she wasn't going to keep subjecting her to that. Dumortierita had been very useful for a long time; she deserved a rest or at least a change of job.
>But they couldn't give up on the great good Dumortierita did for them with her work. They were still millions of years away from achieving salvation, and it wouldn't get any closer if they slowed down or broke the pace. The salvation machine had to always move forward and faster, never stopping even to gain momentum. If Dumortierita saved as many humans as ten gems together, then they would have to get ten gems to cover her position.
>Just as she had given her disciple a second chance after committing a fault, she had already given the gems she met on the surface a second chance to live as long as they could, which wouldn't be forever. If this was going to happen anyway and was inevitable, she would have to take full advantage of Dumortierita's actions and make her responsible for the consequences.
>Surely, together with Peridotita, they would find a way to benefit the crust and fix any damage Dum had done, even if they had to return the academy to how it was before all the gems on the surface knew what lay beneath the crust. Things would be simpler that way, and if Dumortierita herself was already fantasizing about the conversations they could have with Crisocola, she should already understand the situation they were in and the one they could be in the future.

>>2358
(Dumortierite) Isn't that ridiculous? Wanting the world to "look" at you. It's quite stupid... Truly! Even I, being so cute and perfect, have moments where I don't need company or attention. I'd call the world a peeping tom if I had to! For constantly wanting to see the body of an insecure young gem with her head. How horrifying! Back on the Surface, privacy wasn't any better, with that ugly Rutile following me around and ruining my life. What's the need to be honest? Exactly, none. But I am anyway. Give me a smile, at least.
>She brought a blue strand of hair to the side of her face, twirling it softly with one hand while seeming to make absolutely no effort to say another nonsensical thing. She feigned indignation while mechanically twisting her body, revealing in no way the real impact your words had on her. Dumortierite backtracked on her words, specifically regarding the time she lived on the surface. As it had been from the start, she showed rejection toward her sister while glorifying herself, in this case, her honesty. She crossed her arms, believing she could pressure you into being happy, just for an instant. She didn't take long to shrink her vision and act with sarcasm.
(Dumortierite) Oh, that would be phenomenal. I'm sure I'll be free by the day after tomorrow. After all, you've always shone more for your ability to convince than for your hasty way of doing things. No... I'm lying, it's terrible. But look at it from the good side. It seems I was able to give you the push you needed again. From now on, take control of my emotions. Suffer greatly for the irreversible decisions we make. Suffer your part and my part. It's not fair if you only enjoy it in my place; you have to regret it too.
>Peridotite placed the island at a lower risk, discarded gems that would normally be sent to the humans' salvation, and allowed several aligned with the Court's objectives to organize themselves. But, none of it was actually a motion you objectively imposed. Peridotite has a way of acting as free as Dumortierite's, so that she is always in command of everything, even when the situation couldn't go worse against her. Releasing that same sensation, Dumortierite extended her palms to the sides, having long noticed the error in her improvised plans. She approached with the naturalness of a combat partner and took you by the shoulder. Making an extra effort to try to destabilize your presence, at least a little. It became noticeable because her strength did not correspond to the weight of her hand. Slowly as she spoke, she lowered the inclination of her head, so that when she approached to hold you, your chin reached the crown of her head. Despite how ridiculous and cruel her words were, when she said them, Dumortierite did not exaggerate any gesture. Her voice was neutral, almost completely serious. She remained like that for a few more seconds until, letting go of you and flexing her arms in the air, she suddenly illuminated.
(Dumortierite) Once more! I-I! I'll give you the best gift from the Crust! My most coveted treasure... Get ready! Sister Blue Sapphire! Liberation!!!
(...)
>She failed again. Dumortierite tried to erase you once more, exterminate your inclusions, turning your body into just a statue of what you used to be. Though she didn't succeed, you still saw it directly, as her whole being lit up and the surroundings turned into nothing. Dumortierite shining and tearing the edges of reality around her, which slid behind her like blackened pencil shavings. For at least three seconds, it seemed that Dumortierite, unlike anyone else, could eliminate a gem.
[Ruby] It's a safe and reliable process. You can see the result right before your eyes. Dumortierite. Are you ready to begin?
[Dumortierite] No.
[Ruby] Alright. I was told to be excessively patient. And naturally I am, so I'll wait. Are you ready now?
[Dumortierite] I-I'm telling you no.
>Several days have passed since then, unable to give you her best, on the screen you can see Dumortierite talking to Ruby using a kind of reserve you hadn't seen before. While they are inside the Furnace, you remain in the surveillance area of Peridot's command center. The leader of the Crust isn't far from where you are; she seems to like positioning herself behind the androids, waiting for the moment to criticize their work. From Dumortierite's point of view, death and erasure are worthy of seeking with one's whole being. Aware of it, or trying to empathize with her situation in a very clumsy and irregular way, Peridot comments on the scene from the outside.
(Peridot) It was her suggestion; I must be crazy for accepting it. I had better plans. I'm talking about a celebration, in a museum. A giant museum full of things of mine, obviously. With confetti, applause, and at the end of the tour, a shredder. The best part would have been tricking her into getting on it—Oh, are you distressed? To be honest, this barely even qualifies as punishment. Even in my eternal mandate, I've had moments where I'd like to forget everything and get lost among humans. It's almost like a reward. After all, she chose not to cause you any more trouble.
>It was obvious, yet she did it anyway. After failing to blame Peridot, Peridot thanked you for the capture. She tried to be as unkind as possible, given the size of her heart, and now Ruby will take care of eliminating all traces of liberation from her body, based on memories. It was Ruby who was liberated from extreme torture using the same method, so it's not strange that she views the decision they made together with such good and compassionate eyes.

>>2360
>You cannot know with exactness how many halos Dumortierita will have over its head, but you can be sure that, given its extensive knowledge of the Crust and the Surface, they won't be few. As for information not officially possessed by either the Crust or the Surface, Peridotita preferred to draw its own conclusions rather than continue viewing Dumortierita with distrust. It confesses this at that moment and explains to you.
(Peridotita) In any case, given that the information provided is uncertain, I had a hundred androids recover recent data from the Meth. Dumortierita seized an Emeth unit on the Surface that acted as an intermediary for 2, almost 3 weeks. It communicated with Chrysocolla to bring Rutile and Ruby to the Crust. The first as a replacement for its rescue post, and for the second, it was only interested in the pieces of the old Ruby that are inside its body. Chrysocolla's objective is unknown to us, but it is a fact that at least those two would reunite before the next Polar Shift, even if Dumortierita lost control of its Meth.
>The Meth remains deep within the Crust, once again, devoid of any kind of action. According to images, it seems to react slightly to Dumortierita's state, but given the distance, it's impossible that it's assisting it again. Just as Dumortierita showed you a screen displaying the state of the Crystalline Earth, Peridotita does so with static images showing a dry Chrysocolla wandering the same scenarios. You can hear at low volume, behind Peridotita's voice, the series of conversations involving Chrysocolla and obviously Dumortierita, both unrecognizable in their general attitude. Peridotita took the arm of the android presenting the evidence and shook it side to side while thinking.
(Peridotita) That last detail made me believe they have a way to reach here safely, to the Crust. If there isn't already one that has slipped past us. That would be a nuisance, a huge huge nuisance, right after I've established a hierarchical model around their species. What I want least is a rebellion. Anyway, whether it ends up hollow or destroyed, Dumortierita's plan is already underway. So our options are either to do nothing and pray that nothing serious happens in the middle of half a year, or to get ahead of any kind of movement and seize the Crystalline Earth.
>That the Crystalline Earth knows of the existence and danger of the Crust hinders collection work, but boosts the probability of salvation by Fluorite, by revealing its secret. Originally Peridotita had no problem increasing the minimum direct salvation ranks for gems, but there is something in this situation that deeply unsettles it. As if lifting a weight off its shoulders, Peridotita assumes with a nostalgic smile. It explains to you and displays the expected data of the operation. In one way or another, what Dumortierita wanted would happen, just not in the specific way it desired.
(Peridotite) A massive, indiscriminate kidnapping—we haven't done that in nearly 11,000 years. It's a way to alter Fluorite. By disappearing every single gem on the surface, Fluorite has no choice but to destroy its own body and assimilate the first newly born gem it finds, even if it forces that birth and the birth of others. As the greater gem, it takes on a role of leader and mentor until, after much time and effort, it finally creates another community. It's boring and heavy, but it's a safe bet. (...)
>It had been knocking on the door for several seconds, but Peridotite tried to ignore it while continuing to give orders to the Emeths, worried about the state of its teeth and its ability to generate pyroclasts. When Silvita's calling became unbearable by Peridotite's standards—meaning less than a minute—it released the door and the gem entered. It looked worried, and behind that, it felt uneasy, understanding your situation better in your absence. Dumortierite could have probably tricked the androids into attacking you, but that's now your least concern. After taking your hand and tilting its head side to side looking for any scratches, Silvita finally paid attention to its surroundings and the cameras you had been watching just a moment ago.
(Silvita) Leucosapphire! Are you okay? Did they do anything to you? The fugitive gem they were looking for was already controlling several androids. How did they manage to send them as escorts? Is she the one they were looking for? Dumortierite...?
(Peridotite) Oh, hostage! You've arrived just in time, hostage! You don't need to worry about gems you don't know. Want to be useful and save me an army? I have a special task for you and your dear sister.
>Peridotite immediately broke off the curiosity with which it was looking at Silvita toward your former apprentice. Being notably inopportune based on the nicknames it uses, it was evident. Part of Peridotite's concern was based on the possibility that you might betray the Crust by allying with Dumortierite, but now that doesn't seem to be within your possibilities. Silvita set aside its perplexity upon hearing Peridotite, but didn't have time to react with rejection to its words. Before that, it was turning to look at you, expecting your reaction. In its current state, more than just insults would be needed to break its cover; in any case, what Peridotite presented seemed to be an opportunity. It shared with joy.
(Peridotite) Didn't you hear? Save your sorrows for a moment. Finally, Carnelian succeeded. A replica of Fluorite capable of modifying the mechanics of inclusions, a Fluorite that isn't influenced by the horrendous ideals of the original Fluorite. Ideally, an ideal Fluorite in the body of a not-so-ideal gem.

>>2355
>The fact that Ruby occupied Topaz Purple's room reduced her to sleeping in Fluorite's old living room on the third floor. Topaz occupied that place out of obligation, for if it were up to her, she would be in the garden all the time. But keeping that office high up in the Academy is important for the order of the Crystalline Earth. If Topaz hadn't affected it enough yet. She still had the chance to sleep in the garden if she wanted to, because there was a bed there for some reason. But staying out for too long, even in this low pyroclast rate season, is dangerous. She left after regaining her composure, but you couldn't tell what she had been doing all night. There were rumors that Topaz spied on some gems regardless of the situation, even if discovered. Whatever her line of conduct, it could be justified given her exhaustion. As for you, some time after meeting with Anthophyllite and Topaz, and also hours after the sun had risen, you were waiting in the antechamber of the medical area, due to Fluorite's concrete call who happened to meet you. Sitting by your side, she looked slightly disheveled, as if she had lost documents from the library.
(Fluorite) Sorry to bother you so early, Taaffeite. Topaz Purple and Heliodor indicated that I could come to you in case of any emergency. You see, I, normally, don't do this kind of thing. I love helping gems, I prefer to serve the way Dioptase, Rutile, or Anthophyllite do. Even if Heliodor begged me day after day to repair his other half, I would refuse. Not because I don't want to, or because I can't. It's just that... The result... I know the result would always disappoint her.
>You had heard the same speech before, only with less intensity in terms of examples. Heliodor also, by the way his twin sister was destroyed, partially shared Grossularia's sentiment towards Fluorite. Despite her clumsiness and naivety, Fluorite was quite perceptive, but by her diligence and responsibility she knew she shouldn't mention this topic continuously. By breaking her internal rule, by excusing herself and lowering her gaze touching her thighs with her retracted palms, you could understand that something was affecting her. She is unusually patient, she takes her time, both to accept her emotions and to stand up and smile properly again, despite everything. Finally when she gathered the courage to guide you inside the medical area, she repeated a couple of times not to alarm you while waving her fingers calmly. Upon opening the door, under Fluorite's instructions, what you find visually striking and alarming are two things. The torso and head of Andalusite made into pieces next to the room's tool cabinet. And second and more important, a gem that has left pieces of herself in the wooden box where her powder was kept. Without resin and with faceted faces, she is wrapped in an Andalusite robe. She is reduced on the floor near the fragments, but even crouching you can notice the height difference that Imperial Topaz should have. Using three fingers in a pinch as artificial eyes over her sockets, Imperial recognizes you for an instant, before staggering, both from her lack of strength and the deep instability that arises from inside her head, visible and hollow.
(Fluorite) This is it, Taaffeite. Make sure to watch where you step. I know you don't want a disaster.
(Imperial Topaz) Taaffeite...? Are you Taaffeite-? Gh-
(Fluorite) It's been 603 years since you were last active. She is Taaffeite. But don't try to remember anything else, just... just it'll make your head hurt.
(Imperial Topaz) Taaffeite! It's Andalusite, it collapsed suddenly! I-It's still cracking. Help m-
>Following a kind agreement, Fluorite lowered herself to her height, communicating with a softness that hid a certain nervousness. She gestured trying to calm her, but failed because, as she has demonstrated before, Fluorite is a gem who treats the pieces of others with remarkable insensitivity. The pieces of Andalusite that accumulated inside her clothes altered her center of mass, and she fell to one side. Without anyone's intervention, both from what you just saw and the small Imperial Topaz's declaration, Andalusite hasn't been broken for long. And Imperial Topaz, likewise, seems to have awakened very recently. Andalusite explained it: the pulverized mass of Imperial Topaz, even if complete, could never become a complete gem again, as there were more inclusions than her material could withstand. You can see the partial result in front of you, approaching in a distraught manner. Until Fluorite steps in and touches her forehead with her right palm. Inactive once more, Fluorite stops her fall and guides her to the ground, where she pushes aside pieces of Andalusite with her elbows to let Imperial rest. Halfway through getting up again, Fluorite laments and gives you explanations.
(Fluorite) I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done it... I don't know why, I wanted to do it. I- I united the microscopic fragments of Imperial Topaz and recrystallized her entire body. She is here now, active but extremely unstable and weak. And that, it's not even permanent. Even if she wakes up now, I don't know when she'll collapse, whether in 10 minutes, days, or just hours. Normally I wouldn't let myself be carried away like this. But there was something so deep and intense inside me. It was two sensations.
>She stumbles and remains kneeling. Fluorite's usual calm and smile transform completely as she expresses herself; although essentially it's the same tranquility and good humor, her expression is rather unstable. With one of her hands extended palm-out beside her, you can see Fluorite create an abnormal glow from apparent nothingness. Like coming from an optical illusion, control of silica, but on such absurdly small scales that for a common gem, the practice would be several times impossible. The complexity of a procedure doesn't ensure effectiveness; she makes that clear, for whether you suspect it or not, she ultimately confirms that Imperial Topaz has an unviable existence. Eliminating the elemental and thinly atomic glow from her hands, she returns both to her chest.

>>2362
>Fluorita's voice changed, shifting from sounding like Axinita's to being identical to Axinita's, and then back to the tone she always had with Alloclase. Not only was her hair color beginning to blur into a pale gray, but also the way she referred to herself, now in the third person. For several seconds both ignored their footsteps, but she finally arrived. Holding the door open to the side, which almost got tangled with the front of her dress, Purple Topaz shows more than a worried expression.
(Fluorita) I was influenced by something beyond this island, beyond the Crust. It seems Tara let some strange object seep into our system. But it's not her fault, no. I know I would normally have gotten rid of these impurities in an instant. So I can only assume it was bad luck. Yes, Axinita was always so passionate about space that there's no way she wouldn't have taken an interest in such a being. I couldn't just suppress her and wait for her desire to know more, to meet the invaders, to disappear on its own.
(Purple Topaz) I'm here, what happened!
(Fluorita) I'm glad to see you, Mystic Topaz. You're as bright as M42. What a great coincidence, I always thought your colors matched that region of space. But there's no way you could have such a bitter taste.
>Fenakite is a gem pioneer in creating food or sensory experiences for gems, but even she was careful enough. The gesture Fluorita makes cleaning a line of clay-like liquid, mud, coming from her mouth resembles the one Fenakite corrected Garnet with when he drank one of his many acidic concentrates. The amount of information Purple Topaz has to process is greater than yours, with Fluorita in a false transformation, Imperial, Andalusite, and their respective circumstances. She could barely react in the way Fluorita greets her, so characteristic of Axinita, if she even knew how to respond to the same. Topaz only takes one step inside, and Fluorita seizes that gesture to take control of the conversation, rising with delicate success.
(Fluorita) Esfena is an incredible gem, she has great potential. Although, the fact that she lived so much peace seems to have stunted her development. She lacks an intrinsic desire to be useful, which bothered me a bit. But... Antofillite was completely different. Strong and determined, almost as intelligent as the two of you together, she never made herself less due to her hardness. Virtually the best candidate. That's why I'm so surprised you discovered it, the way to generate an opening in her.
>The vision you have of her becomes imprecise. It's a sensation you experienced before many centuries ago. However, the reaction is more noticeable due to the type of gem you have in front of you. The Axinita Fluorita is dramatically shorter in stature than her original version, so the flashes are appreciated with greater weight. Fluorita began talking about Esfena and Antofillite, but she didn't do it in a tone full of pity or with her usual neutrality; instead, she seemed to be praising both of them. When talking about the gems she lost to her assimilation, she shows an analytical being, incredibly cold and conscious. She doesn't take long to extrapolate that feeling that originates the break to other gems, finding a perfect example right beside her. Fluorita brought her hand to the pieces that separated from Andalusite and remained suspended on the short platform preceding the closet door.
(Fluorita) She loses her autonomy whenever Kunzite, Anatase, Leucosapphire, Bort, or any other gem that treated her well when she was a child is mentioned. But not when Aragonite is mentioned. Antofylite remains strangely firm when recalling her; it's exceptional. I believe we all have someone like that inside us, a memory so deeply rooted that it influences our personality and our actions. And Andalucite, whom I had dismissed from the very beginning, seems to have just lost it a moment ago. That image, accidentally.
(Topaz Purple) Stop! Stop, please! I don't quite know what's happening. But don't touch Andalucite!
>Moving ahead of your position, accidentally striking your sword with the back of her dress, Topaz Purple exclaimed. Fluorite, who until that moment had moved with unreal grace, was halted almost like a machine, immediately. Indeed, she paid attention to Topaz Purple, who, in her desperation, accidentally stepped on some pieces of Andalucite on the floor. With her mouth half-open for a second and her arms trembling beneath her, Topaz Purple condensed what she needed to say. She collapsed immediately, touching the ground with her fists. Her apologies turned into pleas in an instant, fitting for a vulnerable Topaz Purple whom you know perfectly. Even so, she raised her head and asked in exclamations, while pointing at herself with both hands, enclosing the center of her chest. The look she received from Fluorite was a mix of tenderness and guilt, but stabilizing her image and beginning preparations to distort the surroundings, Fluorite returned her attention to the disaster.
(Topaz Purple) It's my fault, okay? I'm sorry! I should have known you didn't have the right gem, that you chose it out of desperation. Even if she ended up hating me, I should have kept Heliodor away and not incited you to try repairing the others. If only I hadn't treated Tara as one of us; she would have fulfilled her stellar duty, and none of this would have happened. I'm sorry, forgive me! I'm only asking for a little more time. Just hold on a little longer! Everything was ready. I was prepared to face the worst, but I didn't take a single step. Wait! Is that okay? At least let me fail with dignity! After that, if you're going to absorb someone, make it me, not anyone else-
(Fluorite) You're too kind, Topaz. But as long as Axinite is willing to help them, it's much more likely she'll accidentally eliminate their race, or end up committing atrocities like this while you protect her. Andalucite is a much more sensible gem. That's why I'll join her.

>>2357
>One of your eyes is covered in white dust. It functions clumsily as a provisional eyeball. Zafiro finished assembling it when she touched your face, for a few seconds. Only using sight could you notice the impurities Zafiro speaks of, because, unlike the weakening and weight-induced fatigue she feels, for you, the presence or absence of said impurities does not affect your stability or integrity as a gem at all. You cannot read Zafiro's memories immediately, but it is clear that the mineral functions as such itself, replacement parts that over time you will be able to assimilate. For Zafiro, those parts are something she wants to get rid of. The inclusion mechanic changed, and gems have a degree of self-repair through the involuntary movement of fragments. This is true for all, except for Zafiro. Both large pieces and small pieces, both blackened and unblackened, full of impurities or original, none attach to her body actively or passively. Zafiro uses her fingers to press the dust into the floor. Her attitude is not confrontational despite questioning against it.
(Zafiro) Do you think that falling here was the result of your mistakes and your decisions? And what if it wasn't...? If the fact that you are suffering right now benefits someone you love? Despite the hundreds of years I spent alone, I never developed a deep individualism. I know that, even in these circumstances, if many could live through me, I, would be happy. Leaving it in the hands of someone I loved with all my strength, even if they disappear, even after disappearing...! I believe there would be no greater act of trust, none great enough to overshadow my resignation.
>Kneeling on the floor, the intention with which Zafiro dyes her words is almost like a prayer. She stopped addressing herself as an agent of change in others and became a discrete factor a long time ago. Contrary to what Ruby or Padparadscha might have said about her, the strength she possessed has completely faded, if she ever had it before arriving here. She used her only skill solely to repair you, and after that, she has become an object that only alludes to certain vague ideals. She covers her flat, socketless face with her hand, feeling the stiffness of the strands that advance ahead of her face.
(Zafiro) You probably think I'm crazy. But even for me, there is still something worth believing in.
>After all, even Rutile had a goal, which was to disappear. And Dumortierite, after helping you in her own way, the best she could, would have also sought to disappear not too late, she said so herself. Zafiro however, despite having been treated similarly, probably freeing thousands of humans, does not prioritize death, deactivation, or sleep. While she lacks the delicacy to say it, just as she has kept so much information since you woke up, it is evident given her resistance. Zafiro smiles in a planned mood shift, feeling your improvement through the vibrations of the earth; she suddenly shakes her fist or attempt at one, and presses it hard against the ground. She feigns a complaint, and immediately speaks of the content of her fragments on the surface.
(Zafiro) "Stupid, don't ignore all those who sacrifice themselves for you!" You probably would have ended up hearing something like that. Chrysoberyl was not a bad companion, but it took me a long time to understand her. After all, I was always an old corundum whose only flaw and quality was worrying too much about others. If from the beginning I had been attentive to her, I would have noticed how distressed and frustrated she was at having to leave her dream of repairing Golden Topaz halfway. But- Everything falls into place; you cannot stop someone whose goal is much more noble.
>She has her own regrets. Several misunderstandings, diverse contrasts you would find by placing different gems under the same spotlight, even if their origin, history, or disappearance were the same. Silvita too, despite being incredibly attuned to peace and ignorance, would still be interested in the role the others play, and the transcendence of it. Thinking about it clarifies nothing, but Zafiro takes care to give you certainty.
(Zafiro) Don't worry, unlike a worn-out gem who never stopped criticizing her sisters and apprentices, Anatasa showed no kind of resentment toward you. On the contrary...
>She shrank in her place. It's the best way to stay active after losing so many pieces of herself, even if they weren't united from the start. Sensations can define a lot of a gem's reality, and if Zafiro believes she has lost parts of herself, in her state at 60 or 70% of her original material, she could collapse and never activate again. Her blind attention envelops you completely, at the moment when, even though stumbling and prone to tripping, you are able to walk again. Part of what Zafiro told you once you assimilated her pieces didn't come true. You didn't eliminate her impurities; the black of her pieces didn't turn blue in any way. And that didn't seem to affect your stability or recovery. The vomit comes from an isolated phenomenon, uncontrollable nausea that arises and lodges in your head, stimulating your inclusions. The material mass before you separates, leaving behind the dark layer that covered it; the inside is clear and porous. Fulfilling one of your fears, one after another, faces appear, taking over the small mineral holes and transforming. Zafiro is of no help at all to calm the situation.
(Zafiro) Definitely. You just gave birth to a white, soft, and above all healthy piece of clay. Congratulations! If you want to contradict me, ignore the fact that I can barely see you or the artificial magma sun. You can't be picky. Especially if it's a new life in your hands and under your sole and responsibly responsible responsibility.
(Limolita) Finally... am I in the Crust?
>She replied showing a certain irony and her happiness in a redundant way. While you prepared to become something beyond a master, a mother, the material expanded and took a form that far exceeded the dimensions of a small gem or a small android. Generating from fine white a body as tall as yours but slightly thinner. Before the artificial and brittle gem awakens, her inclusions prioritized her appearance, giving her a finish typical of a Superficial repair. A complete dress extended, assimilating traces of silica from the surroundings from the shoulders down to the clay's feet. She expressed disorientation with her lost gaze. But, both from the theories gathered by Hawk Eye, as well as the several mentions Argilita made of her, you could recognize her. She was a being of alien inclusions, a foreign hive gem that could be made and unmade from the slightest degree of dirt and soil. When she stood up, the first thing she did was look her from head to toe and change her expression drastically. Slowly, she convinced herself that the wretched place where she appeared was the natural state of the Crust. Calling your name and then Peridotita's, Limolita turned in all directions with impatience.
(Limolita) By my eternal lineage! Stay away, stay away, court gems!

>>2364
(Limolita) Yes, I'm talking to you two, islanders who mistook three layers of grime for resin. Get out, get out! Don't you understand? Oh, my! Argilita must have transmitted an unclassifiable high-class dialect to gems of such low quality! Heh, still, I suppose it's a fact that I appeared here because there was no better place. Are these my servants? Just two? So this is the "high" standard of the Crust. Ohohoho. Leucosapphire! Leucosapphire, where are you? Peridotita, let's discuss our terms! My attacks were finally effective. Peridotita...?
(...)
>Even if they teach her superficial culture, even if she acquires all kinds of data and images from the islands and how to counter the vast ocean, years will pass before Argilita can step onto outside land without being considered a threat that devours continents. Though easy to deal with and deceive, Imperial Topaz is devoted enough to the Crust to have kept her post almost as long as Pink Diamond did in her time. Argilita's situation rests with Peridotita, who is now under your review, but also with an analysis by Hawk Eye. As long as that line of action is followed, it's safe to say that extraterrestrial invasive transmissions won't pose a threat. The Crust could implode on its own before one of hundreds of civilizations could conquer it, despite forces as great as Peridotita and Tara protecting the planet. When you separated from Hawk Eye, Carnelian sent you a message. Typical of a "savior companion," she only invited you to meet her to update you on her functions. Stretching out before you is a dry wasteland, covered in tens, hundreds, and thousands of tons of a fibrous, dense, and abnormally bright white material. Your conversations with Carnelian are usually defined as aesthetic nonsense, enduring her pressure until she finally intends to say something important. It went on like that until after the elevator descended and returned, hiding in the ground.
(Carnelian) To be honest, I prefer cold showers. It's complicated or outright impossible to get low-temperature water in the Crust. I've even thought I could discreetly get some of the android coolant that Peridotita keeps under the Caldera. I never came up with a concrete plan because, I think deep down, I still hoped someone would invite me to take a bath with them. No, Hawk Eye. I have nothing against her, but she's made it clear several times how rigid her personality is. She didn't hesitate for a second to eliminate all the Fluorite-type androids I protected in the Research Center, just because of a misunderstanding with Peridotita. Ha, you need a pulse that's too dense. After all, we're partly artificial ourselves-
(-) ...
>Her tone never strays too far from casual. Yet you can still see a certain degree of unease in her, whether from the length of her speech or the speed of her words. She attempts to mimic expressions she would normally have paused for dramatically or emphasized with her usual confidence. The terrain, blanketed in white beneath the dark ceiling of the Crust, offers an unnatural view of the depths. You had previously witnessed the result of gem disintegration and pulverization, but even with the Furnace running at full capacity, there would never be enough gems to cover a space nearly as vast as a Sub-Crust level with mineral dust. On the surface, there is enough water to freeze vast continental areas, but such a phenomenon is impossible to replicate within the Crust. You can understand this terrain and material as a chemical byproduct and pollutant born from maintaining constant gem production and human disposal in the Furnace. Following the instant you deduced that, a particular object pushed its way through the sea of fiber. It looked at Cornaline with a certain indulgence, especially seeing her so eloquent. When your companion realized the same thing you did, she stepped forward to clean the face and hair of the small gem before you, presenting her. Diopside looked at you with passivity, attentive to your appearance. Her pale green color contrasted with the diopside tone you were familiar with.
(Carnelian) She is Diopside, a diopside-type gem. But make sure to call her Solid. Come on… Say hello.
(Diopside) Nice to meet you. Hello? Hello!
(Carnelian) (...) I found her very recently in a rescue tunnel. She's no more than 2 or 3 years old. Humans mistook her for a pupil due to her color and height. The wait was excessively long; Dumortierite would have freed her when she turned 57. Sensorially, there's no great difference between 50 and 500 years. I couldn't allow her to remain locked up for so long, so I brought her with me. Seeing her, Onyx took a liking to her immediately. Despite being only one or two centimeters taller, she suddenly began acting like an older sister, albeit a clumsy one. I had no idea what kind of work she could provide, so I brought her here as a trial. If she can't minimally control even a little asbestos, she'll go to Imperial Topaz. Who knows what kind of labor they'll give her, or if they'll plant a bomb inside her. At this point… I'd like to say her fate doesn't matter to me at all. But that's a lie.
>She used an android's head as a seat, so Carnelian explained and summarized the situation of the gem before you. This gave rise to both her strange, reactive nature and her name. Knowing Dumortierite's inability to free or erase gems, it was evident that sooner or later she would be intercepted by the Crust. Diopside's figure becomes medium-sized and then smaller as she partially merges with the white, compactable environment. The way Carnelian dressed her always reveals at least the blue spot covering her head. Although she only needed to explain, half of Carnelian's speech is filled with personal mentions. Carnelian usually maintains eye contact, but it seems she has lost that habit. She only regains it for a passing question while sinking deeper, unconsciously, into the fake snow.
(Carnelian) Wouldn't it be advantageous to get names for ourselves and all the others? It would avoid countless misunderstandings. For example. That time I took "myself" hostage to compete against you in some silly winter games. That was fun. But when I did it a second time, things didn't go as I'd hoped. I never told you about that, did I? I think I couldn't sleep peacefully again after that. Do you feel like knowing what happened with Kunzite that day, Leucosapphire?

>>2356
(Pink Diamond) I didn't mean to ruin your day. I know nothing I say or promise will change your mind. I can't hate myself more than you do. So I'll just hold onto one memory. When Sapphire was captured. When I stood before Sapphire, Padparadscha's master, in the Crust, she told me that if she'd had a quieter life, if she hadn't shattered herself into a hundred pieces fighting, she would have liked the chance to understand us. That's all.
(...)
>Rosa has creative ways of impacting others. Though she wasn't exceptionally creative according to her own statements back in the Crust. In the absence of Padparadscha's full awareness, with Ruby and Alexandrite gone, a gem is needed to reproach the oldest losses. When Tanzanite took your hands, she played with your fingers, spun, and made a secret salute right in front of Tara, who hid her gaze in shame. Grossularia seems to have truly impacted her opinion. In any case, Tanzanite did nothing to destroy you; she immediately discarded her jokes upon seeing no reaction. That way, when you once again noticed you were standing next to Uranophane actively picking up lead from the ground, you could also see Tara, who had completely changed her line of action upon leaving the medical area. It's the game of chess that Alexandrite was so bad at, both of them, one where Moissanite was especially good, so Almandine always made sure to find her a worthy rival. Tara's pieces aren't made of rock or crystal, but of ice. Some of her soldiers are so abstract it's as if she opened a door to a thousand demons, scaling them the slightest bit. Tara laments; she dramatically spins and treasures in her hands the clothes she put on upon arriving on the island.
(Tara) Waaah! Did I lose?! N-no way! My clay armies! By the Ganges! Rise up, heroic spirit vessels! I was swept away... Like the day one of my ancestors accepted a duel from a flying monkey! But I—! I refuse! Divine rejection! I won't give you the garments my mortal gem friends made using thread from 36 generations of widow worms.
(Tanzanite) That's impossible; I already secured my style during the festival. Maybe they'll start praising me as if I were the true goddess— That would mean you always had an easy-to-forget face, Tara. If you want to prove you possess a true blessing, both physical and spiritual, you have to bet your title as goddess. With some luck, I'll let you wear underwear.
(Tara) I accept! Let's see... How was this opening...?
>Normally, Purple Topaz is the one who collects and boils the worms to feed to her partners. Although the existence of said thread was a secret to the vast majority, the fact that it was revealed doesn't mean Tara possesses that same material; it's an imitation. Tanzanite, meanwhile, is raving, boasting atop her victory and trying to catch Tara off guard—not necessarily to destroy her as she wanted, but to feed her own pride. Both are volatile beings, one more behaviorally than the other. The one who is physically volatile, Tara, listens warily to Tanzanite's terms just a few steps from the main entrance of the Academy. She considers it with great head and patience for two seconds, then agrees immediately. She went blank and started wasting time from the very first turn. Approaching the steps from the outside, Alexandrita commented on the situation. She now carries her sword behind her head; she went to swap the ceremonial sword from before for a real one she carries loosely. If you still had doubts, she seals Tara's fate with a fact, and then suffers from her own impulses.
(Alexandrita) Tara is such a pitiful person, isn't she, master? How didn't I realize it before? Tanzanite used to handle combat strategy against pyroclasts; facing her in a game like that is ensuring your defeat. Should I challenge her...? My knightly pride says I can win!
(Uranofano) She used to call me very late at night to tell me the story she was writing. It was about a human named Mara who, overnight, had to attend an Academy with 7 Nimbireos, each with a different hair color. Oh, it was then that the devotion of Red emerged.
(Garnet) >Master, it's an emergency!! An emergency! A-Uh, a serious one! An ancient gem... It completely finished off Aquamarine! She's not moving, not even a little. I couldn't defend her...
>Moving further away from Tara and Tanzanite, Uranofano also joins you. The first thing that jumps out at you outside is the perimeter set up by the Spinel sisters alongside Aquamarine and Obsidian, wide enough for all the gems to stand in front of the Academy, and just narrow enough to prevent any pyroclastic leakage. Naturally, the thick fog caused by Tara's presence completely invalidates the appearance of spots or possible enemies. This is also a slight disadvantage for the gems, as it prevents seeing the full majesty of Fenaquita's constructions and the decorative elements each of the other gems placed. Tara has plenty of free time and much to think about; her best friend betrays her while you are able to recognize each of the gathered gems. However, your apprentice Garnet doesn't take long to arrive, exhausted, interrupting your contemplation of the scene, alarming an incident. She nearly faints, just like her sister, supposedly.

>>2366
>Alloclasa welcomed you with her usual cordiality, hiding from herself and within her words the general displeasure that is being projected in this area of the front zone of the Academy. Indeed, just as Garnet had predicted, Aquamarine is on the floor, just a few centimeters from the table, from behind which, hidden in plain sight, is Chrysoberyl. Although, it is not strictly that Aquamarine cannot move, because she does move, she crawls toward you as best she can, while the two ancient and four-times-old gems of Alloclasa and Chrysoberyl do not assist her at all. As a gem of the ancient protective court of Fluorite and a legendary physician, Chrysoberyl is much more concerned with keeping up appearances. She does so with a certain clumsiness, shame, but she overcomes all of it with hope as Alloclasa offers you.
(Alloclasa) Oh, Taaffeite, did you come to try Chrysoberyl's tea? That would make her very happy. Finally, she'll have her second taster. As a gem from another era, I used to drink it too. But because my composition was altered, I have to be careful not to let any kind of material enter my interior, especially something suspicious.
(Aquamarine) Master... Ma-... No! In the past, Alloclasa tried to deceive you more than once, didn't she? Why would you accept her...? If this is the standard of cooking among gems. I never had a place in this society from the very beginning... As an apprentice, as a gem, or as a genius...
(Chrysoberyl) Stop... Please stop mocking my tea. It's the first time I've done something away from mineralogy for the festival. I hoped to have the support of other gems in my situation, but-! I know that at least Taaffeite will appreciate my work this time.
(Alloclasa) We used to have internal squabbles over the lack of resin. Chrysoberyl's era was very hard. Yes, it was complicated to be an elegant gem at such a time. That's why the norm was usually to accept and stay silent.
>Alloclasa approached, and in her hands you could see two old wooden cups. Garnet, who arrived at the same time as you, could only watch her sister with concern as she drove her sword into the ground as a symbol. Just in time to receive the elixir in their hands appeared Alexandrite covered in lead. Uranophane is too slow and heavy to keep up with Garnet or Alexandrite; your apprentice had to carry her for a certain distance. Despite the brief history lessons, Alexandrite took time to understand the nature of the situation. Only when she looked between the instruments on the table and her poor decoration did she realize it was an edible element. With Chrysoberyl's glassy, ruminating gaze, she grabbed the container with determination, slurped, and swallowed until the contents were finished. Both from the thick sound sliding into the limited opening of Alexandrite's head and from the reaction of surprise and disgust from Aquamarine on the floor, you could almost guess the sensation that such an experience causes. Alexandrite exclaimed and backed away, into a defensive position, gripping her sword with extreme firmness and trembling, as if she were about to stab herself after accidentally swallowing ash in combat.
(Alexandrite) It's mud!!
(Chrysoberyl) It's not supposed to be drunk directly!! First, smear your fingers in it, like this. See? It's not so difficult. At the least unexpected moment, you'll feel a particular effect in the bounce of the light.
(Garnet) Master, I can do it... I can stop her heart 0.3 seconds after drawing my sword, just give me the signal.
>Crisoberil shook her apron in desperation; she lost her composure for only an instant. Regaining it, she began a small tasting tutorial. As if it were a dirty bath that Andalucita disapproved of 10 and 100 times, Crisoberil poured the tea's contents into her hands, showing the result of her resin mixed in muddy water: iridescent, gray, and thick. At this point, Granate could only do one thing: even with her practice sword within reach, she trusted completely in her abilities to neutralize Crisoberil briefly and painlessly, as long as you can say it that way. For several seconds now, Fenaquita has arrived beside you, not necessarily dragging herself the whole way. She was also a great reason and excuse for Crisoberil to stop, since it seemed the damage was permanent. Clinging to you, losing strength in her hands and legs, she slid several times, trying to get you to take her gently while she finished her speech full of pain. Alexandrita noticed this and grabbed her by the clothes on the back. She lifted her with one hand and warned her in a casual tone.
(Fenaquita) What can I do…? Master… What can I do when I've lost all faith in myself? Maybe I've already accepted that this is the painful path of the gem kitchen… If I've suddenly started thinking this way… Doesn't that mean I'm willing to sacrifice many other things just to keep disappointing myself? I don't want to be a defeated young genius gem…
(Alexandrita) Hey, stop it. Fenaquita, you can't use any excuse to cling to Taaffeíta whenever you want. Especially when I'm around. I'm mature enough not to fight with you for his affection. So come, I'll comfort you instead.
(Fenaquita) No, no, no!! I can't accept it! I deserve quality treatment, not an impostor usurper who can't control her strength. Granate and I are still the youngest, right? Taaffeíta chooses us. Go away!
(Rutilo) …
>In the air, Fenaquita waved her arms and swung hard until she broke free from Alexandrita's grip. She landed on her feet, correctly, but a second later she wobbled suspiciously back toward you. Perplexed by the adjectives she had used to address her, Alexandrita stepped forward two paces and took your arm, pulling you back a few centimeters, but not completely frustrating the younger one's approach. In an instant, paying attention to your limbs, the situation turned into a duel, one of both strength and love. Although Fenaquita had used it as an argument, Granate remained outside this immature battle, while the first one, with brazenness, monopolized your waist. Even Granate didn't notice that the nearby footsteps and the serious, confused, and painful gaze that suddenly fell upon them belonged to Rutilo. She observed the scene for two seconds, with envious negativity, and when she was about to turn around, Dioptasa appeared behind her to finish what had been started. They were only looking for your two apprentices, and in response, Granate received the kinder one with a noble gesture.
(Rutilo) No… Uh… I didn't.
(Dioptasa) Oh, if everyone is gathered. This is so charming. Taaffeíta, Rutilo is here to give special accessories to Fenaquita and Granate. It goes along with a pair of outfits, but you can't see them. You can't see them, okay? The fog is almost finished taking shape. When the bell rings, we'll all gather in front of the Academy. I-I'm sorry for the delay; we had a problem with Tara and her hidden desire to show off a moment ago.
(Granate) Dioptasa, try that.

>>2356
>It's still early, but since I doubt there will be more turns this year, I'll just wish you a happy holiday
Merry Christmas! I'll greet you twice, just because I do posts during those days

>>2357
By the way, I forgot to mention it in the previous turn, but since Zafiro rebuilt you with black corundum, you can change the appearance of Leucozafiro. After these turns I'll do a turn with the specific damage he suffered, so if you want more details, there's not much left.

>>2360
I don't know. It would make me feel important if something as big as the world turned to look at me, even if it's not something I need or seek to achieve.
>By the time she finished speaking her part, I'd already finished imagining what I'd have to do, so when Dumor replied, I was already prepared and could smile again as she asked. If she wanted me to be happy or to suffer because of this, I would. Since I'd sacrificed another gem's emotions to keep my own, the least I could do was use them for both of us. I'd already decided not to hold back my emotions or shut them out before that.
That's normal; gems do it all the time. When a gem achieves something, her sisters rejoice for her; when one gets lost, the others mourn. You're not asking me to do something I wouldn't do anyway.
>She kept smiling even though Dumortierita's words didn't seem the happiest, even though her gestures weren't the kindest, even though she grabbed her roughly. She stopped smiling when she realized this time Dumortierita was going to do something she hadn't asked for.
The same surprise loses its effect when you do it a second time.
>She was annoyed, bored, and disappointed, but not impressed. She already knew Dumortierita was capable of this, so she expected it; it wasn't surprising. Her first instinct was to kick her to see how many pieces she could break into if she destabilized and knocked her down; the second was to jump far away and risk shattering. But she didn't want any more contact with the gem while it was glowing like that, nor to be completely defenseless against a second attempt if she managed to dodge the first at the cost of hurting herself against the floor. She just kept her distance, assuming her salvation wouldn't work if she didn't touch her.
I could be more distressed. Dumortierita did a good job saving me from the worst part of those emotions, even though she said she wanted me to feel them. She's more self-sacrificing than I could ever be. She's truly compassionate.
>Peridotita had a habit of showing up when she felt the most negative emotions or felt fewer emotions in general; it was very easy not to get too friendly with her for that very reason.
>There was no way to feel bad about what happened to Dumortierita after the last thing she tried to do; in that sense, her farewell surpassed her own when she had to sever ties with the surface. Even if she'd wanted to paint herself as a criminal villain, traitor, and crust sympathizer to save her sisters some suffering, she knew for certain that not all of them remembered her that way and probably mourned her disappearance.

>>2361
Ruby...
>Dumortierita's plans weren't what she'd guessed, though nothing she couldn't have expected from her; she had little to comment on them until the name of her former master brought back memories.
If it's possible to repair her with the pieces in the crust, it would be useful. It could serve to distract Padparadscha for a second and thus destroy her without depending on the crust leader's powers. It's unlikely, but we'd lose nothing by being cautious.
>Padparadscha had shown strangely emotional the last time they spoke about Ruby; there was a possibility she could exploit that to gain a minimal advantage, enough to stop worrying about her.
>It was also possible that her daze made her less dangerous than before or even immune to that kind of emotion, but that wasn't enough to completely discard the plan. Her master had always shown willing to protect her from Padparadscha when she needed it.
Doesn't she know every place in the crust or can't she see it?
>She assumed that if Peridotite wasn't constantly aware of everything happening inside the crust, she could at least verify it without much effort. That having a single gem infiltrated among the not-so-large population of crust gems, or in some dark corner no one visited, would be a big problem was rare for her.
Were we not going to wait for them to do something and use the territory to our advantage? A surprise only works if the other doesn't know you're about to surprise them. I thought being inside the crust would make it easier to set traps, ambush them, or just overpower them with force and numbers if we already know they're coming.
>But for that, they'd first have to know where they'd come from, when they'd do it, in what way, and many other things that even Peridotite couldn't figure out with the information they had so far.
11 thousand years? Not that much time has passed since I went down to the crust...
>The number of gems they captured and destroyed that day seemed quite massive to her; she didn't like imagining it could be even worse. Maybe Dumortierite didn't remember what happened the last time Peridotite attacked the academy because she lost her head that day, but she did remember, and she had wished to avoid something like that happening again.
>She had assumed that Dumor's actions would at worst bring consequences as bad as that last invasion, not even worse ones.
Is there a way to communicate with the prisoner from here? I want someone to scream at her that she's an idiot.
>She was more annoyed than anything else. The information the surface had about the crust was already dangerous before Dumortierite made things worse; she knew they'd have to fix it somehow, she just trusted they could do it in a less drastic way.
>By this point, she was already very resigned to doing whatever was necessary to protest too much, so she continued.
So kidnapping only the oldest gems and leaving at least the younger ones wouldn't be enough? Alright. By seizing control of Earth, you don't mean literally taking direct control of the academy with a leader on our side, do you? I don't know if that would help the crust secrets leak any slower. We had already proposed forcing Fluorite to assimilate a gem with birth defects.
>If cultivating gems in other academies far from the main one didn't work, they could try taking the original one, educate the gems differently, and send them directly to the crust in a controlled manner. Maintaining control forever would be impossible; the best they could do was prolong it as long as possible.
>Her ability to ignore the knocks on the door was much greater than Peridotite's, so she didn't even notice someone wanted to enter until her sister had already taken her by the hands. She had to remind herself not to make sudden movements while they were in contact and smile broadly at her.
I'm just angry, but healthy. She tried to kill me, but that's the second time already. Sorry for not coming back sooner to decorate your room; I took care of it immediately, and I don't know if I'll stop being angry soon... I told you I'd have things to say to you, so we'll have a lot to talk about.
>Her smile gradually became lighter until it turned into an embarrassed expression, though her tone of voice remained less serious than the things she was saying.
I'll have to congratulate Carnelian when I see her. I guess this achievement has something to do with our mission?
>Depending on what kind of army Gardan Siti wanted them to make, the three of them could be the most suitable for it.
>She took only a moment to blink, process Peridotite's news, and then smile at her and her sister again.
It's true we have reasons to be happy. We'll see Taaffeita, my teacher, and the rest of our sisters again.

>>2368
I can, I don't know if I want to. I wasn't planning on changing my appearance again because I thought I had already done enough and it's hard to find another one that suits me.

If you tell me that I now have black material immediately I think I should change my hair color to black and the first options that come to mind are these three. The first has few images and depends on whether I overcome my OCD so much as to not repeat them. The third has even fewer images and I post it as an example of a Miku with black hair that doesn't seem too young to me, it's curious the way the two colors are distributed, I like it. The second has enough images and I like it, although it's difficult to justify the green color in her hair, we would have to assume she doesn't have it, that it's a different color or invent something, which wouldn't be the first time.

If you have an opinion, don't hesitate to write to me. Kisses under the mistletoe for everyone.

>>2364
That's the problem, I don't know. But I know I'd be willing to suffer for the sake of others, up to a point.
>Sacrificing oneself to the point where one could no longer live, to suffer or be happy would be too much, since that was the most important thing to her. For now she was still conscious and felt emotions, so it was possible she had arrived there by her own decision or mistake.
I've met rarer gems. And I have a stupid amount of optimism too.
>If she wanted to keep her life and her feelings it was because she had hopes for a future, an unlikely one but one she still believed in, at least enough to protect those parts of herself until she achieved it or was shown that it was completely impossible to do so.
>She had her eyes fixed on the sky to see Sapphire's gesture or to keep protesting with spirit; looking at the stars tended to calm her.
It's no use regretting something that already happened. I can only apologize or try to fix it if I still can. Reminding myself of my mistakes only helps if it's to not make them again.
>She shrugged, with little enthusiasm to respond to Sapphire's memories with anything more complex than the first thing that came to her mind.
Even with how much I prefer acting, it's easier to say than to do.
>If she stopped to list all the mistakes she made in her life and organize them by category, she'd surely find several similar mistakes she made over and over again. Learning lessons once and never having to see them again was as hard as living without regrets; she surely hadn't achieved that either, the amount of re-educations she had to go through when she was at the academy supported that assumption.
>She needed to lower her gaze from the sky so she wouldn't vomit too much from the new form of life she was giving birth to within herself.
W-White clay...? That's not a good name. Can't I give her another one?
>She assumed that if Fluorite had the right to name the gems she saw being born from the earth, she would have greater right to name those coming out of her body, but only being able to name her according to her mineral composition limited her options. Fortunately, the clay already had a name, and it was Limolite.
I don't know if we're capable of distancing ourselves by our own power or of serving right now, nor if we're still in the crust, but I am Sapphire and she is Sapphire. Is there something we can actually do?

>>2365
Even getting a cold bath can be an adventure here. Personally, I never liked Fluoriteandroids, but I'd also be annoyed if someone else broke my things.
>In such a long and possibly monotonous life as theirs, anything that helped them distract themselves from the millennia ahead, entertained them, or gave them relief was good, even if she didn't like the same things others did, and sometimes small-scale rebellions could form as a consequence of this.
>Not knowing Cornaline's objective or the reason for her unease, she simply replied in the same casual tone until she found out, which wouldn't take long.
Nice to meet you, Solid, I'm Leucosapphire. Thanks for already having a nickname to call you so I don't have to think of one myself.
>She leaned slightly to look down at Solid and greeted her with the affection she would show any young gem.
It's normal to be in a hurry to get a gem you can treat like a younger sister; you might end up waiting many centuries if you don't take advantage of this now. She'll learn to be less clumsy. You're also in a hurry to find her a job, but you're more responsible than I am. If I had had a younger sister, I would have liked to spend a lot of time with her before she got busy with some work.
>She couldn't recall a single occasion where her relationship with a younger gem had been prolonged and lasting; she abandoned the few such gems from the academy shortly after meeting them, and with those from the crust, she didn't become truly intimate until much later. She probably would never have another chance like this, but it was just an unimportant whim she felt only after Cornaline showed her her new little sister.
They call me by so many names that getting another one would only cause more misunderstandings, even if you convinced everyone to call me by just one name. Besides, I find misunderstandings amusing, so you asked the wrong gem that question... I had already convinced myself I wouldn't know the whole story, and I was fine with that. But if you want to tell it, I'm fine with that too.

>>2362

Talking about our problems is always good, don't hold back and tell me what's affecting you.

>It had been a short time since she woke up, so she was still somewhat groggy
>The fatigue faded while she waited for Fluorite to speak
>Ignorant of how grave the situation was, Taaffeita stared at her with a calm face
>Almost as if she thought it was some argument with another gem or a mere mistake in her work
>Small problems with an easy solution that don't require too much intervention
>She didn't take long to find out how wrong she was...

Luci? What is it...! Imperial!

>As soon as she opened the door, she found Andalucita broken to pieces on the side
>Worried, she approached her and tried to check her condition; a single glance was enough to realize the obvious
>Seeking answers, she turned toward Fluorite, waiting for an explanation
>However, her words soon cut off when she encountered an image even worse than the previous one
>Unable to believe what she saw, her entire body froze for an instant
>How? Why? When? For what purpose? Dozens of questions accumulated in Taaffeita's mind
>But what came out of her mouth wasn't that, but a simple scream to check that what she saw wasn't a hallucination
>With trembling steps she walked toward her direction, then fell to her knees in front of her

You... your interior?

>She stretched her arms, doubtful about whether to touch Imperial Topaz. Retracting them a few centimeters from her face
>It was difficult for her to pay attention to anything other than her at this moment
>Having to make an effort, she turned her head to be able to listen to Fluorite
>Every movement she made made her want to tell her to be careful when dealing with Imperial Topaz
>But no matter how much she thought about it, she couldn't express a single word due to the huge shock this was
>She was listening, but barely processing anything of what she was being told
>It wasn't until Fluorite's light made Imperial Topaz disappear that she finally regained the ability to speak
>Interior, upon hearing that word, Taaffeita recoiled in terror
>She wasn't afraid of the Fluorite in front of her, she was afraid of the remnants that led her to do this

>>2363

An external being... so... it's not...! It's not your fault! It's not your fault, right?

>The fear in Taaffeita's eyes disappeared as soon as Fluorite attributed all this situation to someone external
>Vaguously regaining her spirits, she crawled toward her with a desperate face
>She was still nervous, too much to notice the presence of Purple Topaz
>She wasn't interested in that now; the only thing she wanted to know was the reason for all this
>She barely paid attention to the color changes or Fluorite's speech
>What caught her attention most right now was the substance oozing from her mouth
>Was that the alien entity? If they removed it all, would this end? Right?

How? NO! Neither Topur nor Luci have to go through that! Fluorita, please. I'm not going to pretend I understand any of what's happening; you've always been a complex gem. Too complex for any of us to imagine what your existence must be like. But for the love of everything, just wait, let's take a moment and talk. How else could we understand each other? You've always been like this, even before Axinita. You try to carry all your problems on your own, could... could you trust us a little more? Give us a chance, let us know what's bothering you so we can find a solution together.

>The situation kept getting worse with every passing second
>She didn't have time to process anything, but she knew she had to act to prevent it from getting even worse
>Startled, she stood up, approaching Fluorita with quick steps
>She heard the pieces of Andalusite being crushed under her feet, but ignored them
>She couldn't afford to worry about that right now
>She grabbed Fluorita by the shoulders, shook her, and begged her to come to her senses
>This behavior, this way of being, she recognizes it; she's seen her act this way thousands of times
>Since Taaffeita can remember, Fluorita has tried to take care of everything on her own
>She thought that if she were removed from her position as leader and allowed to rest, this attitude would disappear
>But it didn't happen; even now Fluorita tries to push them away to solve the problem on her own
>She doesn't want that; Taaffeita is tired of seeing her act this way
>She would like to be able to talk to her, reach a consensus as a community
>She doesn't want a single gem to be responsible for the whole group

Otherwise...

>If talking isn't enough, then she will act
>She can't let her carry out what she wants to do. Not without the rest's permission
>Her grip soon turned into a hug, and her hug into a restraint
>She squeezed Fluorita with all her strength; she intended to break her if necessary
>If that was what was needed to make her understand that she could trust her, she wouldn't stop
>Her own mineral was breaking, not from excessive force but from her emotions
>Doing something like this is absolutely not pleasant; the expression on Taaffeita's face made it clear she was suffering just as much as Fluorita
>But she didn't stop; even if the room lit up or if she asked her to stop, she would continue
>She wouldn't stop until she saw her broken into pieces just to gain a little more time

In the end, she did give me time to post before the next year. It must be a Christmas miracle!

>>2370
I was going for something more conservative, like black and white. I thought there were more mares in black and white, but I ran into a shortage!
The first and last have lots of images. The second and third have pics with expressions or reactions that seem more fitting for Leucozafiro to me.
https://safebooru.org/index.php?page=post&s=view&id=6277959
https://safebooru.org/index.php?page=post&s=view&id=5501024
https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/131664836
https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/90419345

The third one in light blue and black is awesome kek it really resonates with Blue Leucozafiro, it's my favorite of your three. If you stick with green, I can think of something to justify the change.

>>2372
>>2370
Merry Christmas! I want them black. I love roleplaying, I always have it in mind kek Right now we've reached a point in the chapter where I don't know what's going to happen, from several fronts
https://youtu.be/nC3rbHi1vM0?si=AbN5IWwPMXwAsfc5▾
I haven't found where to fit this topic into the roleplay yet, maybe during Amber's turn once I've clarified some things kek But this is what's been inspiring me
Anyway, happy holidays. Turns coming soon

>>2373
I was trying to think first of characters I already knew, liked, or had a relation with other appearances, like Miku or Kamitsubaki. Monochrome hair cuties I only knew of Shiori Novella, but wasn't considering her. The second one of yours looks good, could use that.

>The third one of celeste and black is great kek it resonates a lot with Leucozafiro Azul
Another inconvenience with that is that in the few images that appears she always wears servant clothes, but it's a minor thing.

Felíz navidad. A while ago I got bored, drew a Koishi I saw online, liked how it turned out and tried to turn it into a Tanzanita because of her story of having lost her head and being one of the craziest gems. We can interpret it as a Christmas OC.

>>2366

>Sapphire. Upon hearing that name, Taaffeite's face contorted even more than before.
>She never knew her personally, only knows about her from what others have told her.
>Still, since Sapphire is the teacher of her teachers, Taaffeite holds her in a certain degree of respect.
>Enough, in fact, to be annoyed at Pink Diamond merely mentioning her name.
>Using her name as a way to try and win favor infuriates her.
>So much so that she ends up raising her fist high, then thrusting it straight toward Pink Diamond's face.

...

>However, her fist never lands.
>It stops mere centimeters away from shattering her face.
>Not out of pity, not because she feels sorry for her—she stops because it's not worth it.
>Letting herself be provoked like this is exactly what the Crust wants.
>She learned that well during her brief encounters with Rutile.
>No matter how much Pink Diamond claims to have had a change of heart,
>Taaffeite doesn't believe that lie for a second.
>For now, she'll limit herself to watching closely with one eye open.
>But if this happens again, she won't hesitate to hit her.

Tara... you'd do better focusing on the game instead of your stories...

>Watching Tanzanite and Tara play was a good way to relax after everything that had happened.
>Both were quite entertaining when playing against each other, as well as entertaining everyone else.
>This allowed Taaffeite to stay quiet and regain her composure.
>She wasn't paying much attention to the game, but even she could tell the reason behind Tara's losing streak.
>That reason being her persistent need to give each piece its own personal backstory.
>Every time she moved one of her pieces, she'd start narrating its heroic exploits as if it were some fantastical fable.
>Tanzanite also had this tendency, but unlike Tara, she limited it to a brief backstory for her entire "army" as a group.
>Because she keeps the fantasy to a minimum, she can focus better on her moves.
>Which has given her a clear advantage over Tara.

Tara may have her head in the clouds, but I don't think you're much different, Rita. (...) I'm getting sleepy just hearing the synopsis—no doubt you're a very patient gem, Opal.

>She taps Alexandrite on the head with her knuckle after comparing her to Tara.
>The sound it makes is far from hollow, proof that she's still not quite as empty-headed as the Nimbirean.
>Relieved, Taaffeite closes her eyes and brings a hand to her chest.
>Only to burst out laughing at Alexandrite's expense the very next second.
>Her private communications with Tara go back to when they first discovered her.
>Since then, there have been few occasions where Taaffeite had to listen to her for long stretches of time.
>Something she can't help but be grateful for, considering the wildly "fantastical" tales she tells Uranophane.
>Her job as a radio listener is much harder than one might imagine.
>Which is why she rewards her with a couple of pats on the head.

>>2367

Sounds serious. I'd better go.

>The way Garnet spoke made her think something had happened with Padparadscha.
>If that were the case, it was most likely just a hug that was too strong
>Nothing to worry too much about, which is why Taaffeite wasn't very upset by the news
>Without rushing, she said goodbye to the others and proceeded to follow Granate at a relaxed trot
>Just as she thought, the matter turned out to be quite mundane
>So much so that she ended up confused when trying to identify the problem

I guess I came for that. Did Asa do something like that? Oh, you guys came too! We'll have to throw a bigger tea party!

>With one hand over her face, she turned to Granate and then back to Alloclasa
>There's no real danger here, which means they must have brought her to try the tea
>Although her apprentices' comments were still quite confusing to Taaffeite
>No matter how much she thought about it, she couldn't recall any instance of Alloclasa deceiving her before
>If something like that happened, it must have been a mere prank she already forgot
>In any case, she didn't have a chance to think too much about it
>As the place soon became filled with the presence of more gems
>Joining hands, Taaffeite suggested getting more chairs to make room for everyone

Everyone, please calm down. Ena, in the animal kingdom, there are tastes for everything. Fruit flies eat fruit, tsetse flies feed on blood, and dung flies enjoy eating feces. If you want to be a true genius in the world of gem gastronomy, then you'll have to learn to satisfy all kinds of demands. Someone as dedicated as you is surely capable of achieving that, aren't you?

>While her apprentices argued, Taaffeite took advantage of the commotion to sit down
>She had betrayed them, as she was currently enjoying the tea
>Unlike Alexandrite, she didn't drink it directly, but followed Chrysoberyl's example step by step
>With her stained hand, she turned to Phenakite, who was the most affected by this
>Explaining to her in a calm tone the vast range of tastes that exist
>Being a pioneering culinary gem, Phenakite cannot afford to give up over something like this
>As it is her duty to find a way to satisfy even the most unpleasant requests

Tilo, Dio, welcome, I would invite you to sit, but I'm not sure if I'm indicating the right place.

>She slammed her hand against her face as soon as Dioptase denied her sight
>The mud on her palm now spilled over her forehead and eyes
>She had her eyes closed while speaking, but even if she opened them, her vision would be blurry due to the dirt
>Still, she stretched her hand in the direction of what seemed to be a couple of free seats
>Only she was actually pointing towards the area where Alexandrite and Phenakite were fighting

>>2373
Happy holidays once again. Here's a Houseki no kuni style Anatase I commissioned for the modest price of nothing.

>>2374
If you're going the black and white cat route, then Nagao Kagetora could work. Although sometimes the black parts are ignored in fanart.

>Christmas OC.
The creature.

https://youtu.be/sOOanBUrc1s?si=Mxit3N6Ri737npSq▾

Shifts today, at night

>>2369
>Despite appearing pleasant and considerate, Rubellite has a serious problem with her personal space, or rather, her distrust. The times she pointed a weapon at Dumortierite once more increased by two units. This was even after Peridotite said she had already obtained sufficient information. Even if they had the equipment to listen to you, they were already changing rooms, making their way all the way to the Caldera where accretion disks can be created. Peridotite watched you patiently theorize and propose countermeasures, her eyes usually directed straight at yours, as a means of distraction. She turns a few degrees and elegantly places her fingers on her chest as she asks. Only to then shake her index finger abruptly. She explains, about the implications of a pursuit.
(Peridotite) Can't I detect all the movements of beings made of solid inclusions? Maybe. But I won't tell you my weakness just like that, I'm much more cunning. Waiting for the gems to come to us, for example, is not cunning at all. A requirement for cultivating gems is that they don't want to sacrifice their inclusions. A campaign to capture warrior gems consumes a lot of effort and generates almost no Salvation. Indoor gems are more profitable. Therefore, a plan of total Annihilation, which kidnaps all those gems, disconnects those parasitic gems from the mothership, and eliminates the problem at its root is the solution. It's a matter of displaying some bodies so that those who remain trapped here gain cultivation value. Doesn't that align with your ideas?
>You couldn't predict her response, due to the low kidnapping rate. Peridotite ignores this fact and asks you for collaboration. Naturally, observing someone else suffer intrinsically makes gems want to avoid it. For years, the disappearance technique was governed by that dragging method. Peridotite proposes, based on experience, what was effective for her in the past. Peridotite congratulates you, which takes a few extra seconds to correct with the truth.
(Peridotite) I'm surprised by your vanity, White! Do you want to become the new leader of the Academy? Unfortunately, I'm sorry to say that would be improbable. Fluorite has a dark, black, terrible heart. She always seeks a way to take command of the Academy and manipulate the others. She can't help it, it's a marked trait that is passed down Assimilation after Assimilation. Sapphire couldn't subdue her for more than 500 years, and the same will happen with Topaz. Until a few years ago, Carnelian studied her behavior deeply and reached the same conclusion.
>You know the history from long before you were born or all the ones you knew. Eras when Fluorite single-handedly defended the Academy, periods when she became so useless that other gems like Sapphire or Chrysoberyl took temporary command to dissipate pyroclastic attacks. There is no clear trend, simply a clear fact, and that is that sooner or later, despite the ups and downs, Fluorite ends up protecting and using the gems. (...) Silvite threw her hands back, abruptly interrupting her grip, her fingers still flexed. You couldn't expect less from her, as she immediately worried upon hearing what happened, even superficially. Silvite quickly looked back at the screens, mentioning Dumortierite's name with a more flustered tone. She vents her frustration first at Dumor and finally, and more so, at Peridotite, whom she has beside her. Peridotite's reaction is unusual.
(Silvite) You can't...! How can you say that so lightly? Dumortierite... She still has another head. What's to stop her from trying again? This all happened because they attacked the Academy. Because you took her original head, Peridotite.
(Peridotite) Extermination, by the sweet feelings of one of your kind, is the greatest gift in the Cortex. Why didn't she try to kill me instead? I'm envious, for being the cause of everything and not receiving the same consideration.
(Silvite) That's not- That's not a justification. She's still too dangerous...
>Although bound by her responsibilities as a human defender, Peridotite's desires can surface from time to time. She especially does this when she finds a way to invalidate someone else's opinion. Silvite didn't expect that response, so she falters for half a second before replying in a lower voice. The last image you saw of Dumortierite was her entering a room so bright and visually fiery that the screens around it made up her own network of lamps in the command center. Dumortierite's old head is in the possession of the Cortex, though it lacks the size and density of memories or inclusions of a normal one. Most of Dumortierite's personality developed while she possessed Ametrine's head, so it will remain useless even after the procedure. Silvite had been observing this image for several seconds, reacting only to your most optimistic stimulus, perplexed. Peridotite commented.
(Silvite) Sapphire-
(Peridotite) Be more discreet, White. Do you want to turn my hostage into an accomplice? I agreed to let her have a dignified life because, in part, her abilities remind me of myself.
(Silvite) Leucosapphire...
>Since joining the Cortex, Silvite had received the common treatment for gems with minor jobs. Neither Onyx, Heliolite, nor Hecatolite know the details about the Academy, its leader, or the few kidnappings. Although she knew what had happened to Fluorite, Silvite had decided not to get too involved. But at Peridotite's scolding, you can see Silvite take a few clumsy steps towards you. Taking both your hands together, with a restlessness different from your previous uncertainty about your state, Silvite repeated your name once more. She looked agitated, relieved, and above all happy as she lifted both your hands. She quickly let go to open her arms and wrap them around you. It seems Peridotite's warning only gave Silvite the assurance that a plan with that objective was indeed going to be carried out. Silvite's hair is a bright yellowish-orange, extremely soft and thin. Her body is made of an unstable and brittle silver mineral, but upon contact with you, she didn't generate any cracks, probably due to the effusiveness of the moment. You could feel her cheek brushing against the underside of your artificial ear.
(Silvite) That's the best thing I've heard. It's the best thing I've heard in my life! Even though so much time has passed, I didn't think I could feel this happy again.

>>2377
(Silvita) I'm sorry. I'm sorry, forgive me—I don't normally react like this. It's just that... I don't regret trusting you. By every element inside me, I was afraid of losing my form. Even though this is just a simple hug, I can start to feel whole again...

>
You felt the flow of a dense liquid from your shoulders down your back. Though it looked like ordinary molten iron, it was hot and slowly stained your clothes black. When Silvita realized the iron was leaking from her, she pulled away immediately. She used her hands to push the alloy back into her palms as she tried to explain. Suddenly, droplets of that same iron appeared on Silvita’s face, clearly identifying her as the source. Even though she didn't seem visibly distressed, the flow continued regardless, so she wiped her face with her left hand before stepping back toward you. The metal thread connecting her to the ceiling grew thicker, and using it, she drained herself upward, stabilizing. Her final touch was warm, and amid impatient questions, her words remained generally optimistic.
(Silvita) We’ll find a way, right? We won’t have to wait too long, will we? I want to believe we can help Axinita and reunite with her. Even Dumortierita too. As long as she’s alive, even if not in the most proper form.

(...)

>
The path toward the experimental area was discreet, descending in a spiral from the command center down to a base in the Subcrust connected to the restricted interior of the Caldera, starting from the lowest point. Walking through arch after arch of android generation, arriving at the structure that once housed the core of the Caldera during ancient Crust 49, Peridotita remained calm with a neutral expression. Only after nearly completing a perfect circle around the structure did she stop and shout into the air, calling out to whatever or whoever might be lurking in the shadows among the arches. Peridotita had to strain a little, but soon something descended in response—a human entity. It dispersed dust and landed with force and power: a Type Two human appeared. Eye strictly followed Peridotita’s orders, keeping his human extermination cannon hidden behind his back, appearing obedient.
(Peridotita) Failed experiment, oh, failed experiment! You detected our presence a long time ago, didn’t you? Show yourself, failure. Don’t make me bring up your strange non-heteronormative hobbies. Oh, there you are!
(Eye) F-... Fluorita has been waiting patiently.
(Peridotita) Introduce yourself, failure, don’t be shy. You already knew one of them, didn’t you? Tell me, did you finish securing the area? (...) I created him from tens of thousands of human talents, but something went wrong during distillation and he ended up with brain damage. Not that he's completely useless, though.

>
Despite wearing specialized black attire, his personality and indecisiveness hadn't changed at all. He hesitated for a moment before approaching you, then Silvita. Only when Peridotita sent him away from their circle did the atmosphere feel less tense—especially with Peridotita openly mocking his particular shortcomings. Soon they left the containment structure of Caldera 49 behind and headed toward the Crust 50 Caldera. The path was slightly sloped but long. Silvita took advantage of the journey to chat with you amicably, or at least in the best way her mood and hopes allowed.
(Silvita) You know, Leukozaphir? Heliolite has a lot of experience using human networks. She actually got a group of humans to bring a full set of swords into the School. Imperial Topaz kicked them all out, shot them on sight. But that's not all! Hecatolite told me about a zoo on the Crust. Do you know the word? Zoo. It gathers many animals from different environments, different eras and diets, all in one place. My teacher would've thought it was madness. And honestly, so do I. But there's something about the quality of those animals that didn't come through in the images. I won't tell you—so you can be surprised yourself.

(Peridot) You're way too talkative, hostage. I thought you'd feel fear, suspicion, or at least doubts about what we're about to do.

(Silvita) I don't have any reason to doubt... Peridot, maybe the reason your plans always fail is because you approach things with such heaviness and negativity.

>You never fully immersed yourself in human conveniences; it was merely useful to send symbols across screens to other gems. Silvita not only innovates in that regard for you, but also speaks of something you were unaware of despite your long stay on the Crust. She spoke easily, eyes closed, yet Peridot took advantage of one of her pauses to question her state. Silvita's initial response was slow and slightly imprecise, but she finally answered Peridot in a subtly mocking tone. Even though the end of the path wasn't visible, a wall on the side where Peridot was walking opened up, and she diverted toward that place. The area she revealed resembled the inside of a control tower, with many windows facing outside and screens displaying a network of subcrust tunnels and various human crowds. A familiar gem appeared not long after the entrance opened, calling out to you as she approached.

(Onyx) Corundum!

(Peridot) Her chatter left me no time for explanations. I'll get straight to the point. Below and ahead of us are 3 million humans spread throughout this release tunnel. Order her to eliminate 1 million—or 100 thousand humans. Set a limit, and if this phenomenon is replicable, then everything will be solved.

>Peridot didn't advance much further; facing this scene, she delivered her instructions. Before turning away, she split herself in two. One part, possibly the original, sank into the floor, while the second returned to wait near the entrance. Although they possessed Dumortierite's ability to release large numbers of humans in a single day, they were too far from them. Once Peridot was out of sight, Silvita's attention turned to Onyx, who stood before you, showing some disorientation. She didn't grow anxious or move spontaneously—Onyx simply waited for your response.

(Onyx) Corundum, I recognized you immediately. But I'm having trouble identifying this other ge...ma... No, never mind. Did you come to rescue me? Again? Will you take me to the Surface? It's been so lonely.

>>2371
(Carnelian) Onyx is a charming and ambitious gem, full of options. She won't take long to earn favor with the Research Center. She could use the Cauldron and design her own sister, tweak her personality, her flaws, her qualities. Though, had that possibility existed in the Academy, gems like me would've gone extinct. Responsible, stubborn, arrogant, and unnaturally beautiful. I'm sure you wouldn't have wanted a younger sister with those traits.

>
She twirls a strand of hair in the air as she presents you with more options. Naturally, no one would ever think to create a gem like herself as a sister or companion, but Carnelian’s way of thinking has long diverged from yours. Still, she doesn’t seem to truly desire it, shrinking back slightly as she waits for you to deny her last claim. Upon hearing your response about names, Carnelian protests.
(Carnelian) You just don't want to give me a cute nickname, do you?! I thought we were in this together! But honestly, I'm not surprised. Cauliflower. You've never had the best guidance when it comes to names. Did anyone genuinely believe you could shine as brightly as a white diamond? You'll waste dozens of lovely winter names that Kunzite forced me to store in my chest for centuries. Rime, hoarfrost, graupel, firn, albedo. Just pick one when there's so much peace and so many gems that it won't be strange for 10 sapphires and 7 diamonds to fight over your identity.

>
She began by treating you spitefully, causing a commotion that made Diopside glance their way for a few seconds. However, Carnelian suddenly corrected herself. She spoke of a future overflowing with gems and a problem you wouldn't encounter anytime soon. Offering winter names thoughtfully, before letting her glow fade away. Carnelian slid her hands beneath her and adjusted the android bones she was sitting on. Amidst her focus, she began.
(Carnelian) Over the course of 6,000 years, only 25 pyroclastic beasts were ever created. For example, there are barely over a dozen inactive beasts in the former Research Center. They're alert units, trained to detect the phenomenon of Liberation on the Surface. They can remain underground for centuries without Fluorite's sharp hearing detecting them. It was one of these special pyroclasts that appeared beneath us, stripped Onyx of her cover, and either split Kunzite in half—or finished splitting her in half—when she tried to annihilate me.
>Every so often, Hawk's Eye compiles a list of resources left behind due to the Crust's renewal. It's clear that Garnet investigated those elements, which is why she can speak so clearly. Even if you've never seen pyroclastic beasts directly, you can notice Garnet's downcast gaze and how she intently observes the strange android bones beneath them. Garnet attributes the incident to her.
(Garnet) She wasn't an ordinary gem. She was intelligent, capable, and excessively sweet. But she was unstable—typical of a gem with a liquid matrix. She was also shrewd enough to approach Fluorite by using that same alloy as protection. I imagine that's when she discovered her secrets. How to fake memories, how to transfer your inclusions and personality into other gems, how to erase humans, and how to annihilate gems and their inclusions.
>Listed among hidden utilities and some the Crust managed to replicate. Fluorite has an additional way of observing her surroundings, through her inclusions. Based on this, she can determine others' capabilities, immediately detecting instabilities. Kunzite, being a gem with a dual composition possessing nothing beyond her own inclusions, can partially evade that perception. Gems similar to her appeared in the past, but like Kunzite, they tend to fail in their various objectives.
(Garnet) Have you heard of Demantoid as the Academy's leader, or Cordierite? Hemimorphite? Fluorite has the habit of eliminating the bodies of gems she's possessed, through Liberation. By preserving parts of one of them, she can eradicate them periodically across centuries. And if that isn't possible, she conspires to destroy them indirectly. Also, she can physically interfere with a gem's memory so their disappearance goes unnoticed. It's a fate shared by both Alloclase and, later, Axinite.
>Although not frequent, Fluorite eliminates other entities or living beings through her inclusions, descending into Liberation. Garnet explains that when a pyroclast penetrates too deeply, or when she needs to gradually erase parts of a gem, she Liberates—uniquely and without side effects. She might not have known the name of the ability she acquired through imitation, but certain gems tend to possess great talents that only activate upon first use, as was the case with Ametrine.
(Carnelian) I can understand Kunzite's objective. I used to be a parasitic gem. Even though I was born that way and it seemed like I had no choice, I actively chose to exploit Onyx and Kunzite by using my condition. Tormenting gems for many centuries, in an endless cycle, seems more fitting of a Crust gem than a Surface one. So I understand that resentment. Maybe it's too much for you to accept that Kunzite or Onyx intended to annihilate another gem. But for me personally, it's easier to label it all as an accident. I hope you can overlook the mental deterioration Kunzite tried to hide for years. Following their wishes.
>She looks at Diopside, comments on their situation, and returns her gaze to the backs of her hands. She speaks with honesty and frankness about her personality, different from how she portrayed herself at the beginning. After criticizing herself enough, she justifies Kunzite. Shifting her head side to side, Carnelian holds brief silences as she speaks. In the end, she smiles faintly, evoking a memory from the past. Carnelian quickly changes her posture, crossing her legs as she speaks with rigidity.
(Carnelian) "Salvation" is a mysterious phenomenon. Attributing only suffering or remorse to this process makes it effective but limits its scope. So, keep discretion. What I'm telling you now is unknown to Peridotite. Unlike what's needed to eliminate a human, eliminating a gem requires rejection, hatred, betrayal. Cruel words aren't enough—there must be a genuine intention to harm or torture. Otherwise, as Kunzite demonstrated, the release tends to fail. Most likely, the purest and most refined form of this kind of Release ends in the mutual self-destruction of both parties. Rutile could have been a clear example. In any case, this is the future foundation for the annihilation of Fluorite and a range of other accumulative phenomena.
>Even if Carnelian finds a way to destroy Fluorite, it wouldn't stop Peridotite from gathering her fragments and reconstructing her to once again ruin her stability. Instead, eliminating Fluorite's inclusions is the definitive way to end Carnelian's job. The fact that only Carnelian is capable of summarizing all these details suggests she's made progress on her own. Carnelian revealed this information with more than a hint of pride, especially considering the only nearby androids are pyroclastic beasts under her control. Sensing the atmosphere, Solid approached with a bundle of asbestos and a question.
(Diopsido) Carnelian, this snow isn't clumping like you said it would. Are you sure this is real snow?! No matter how many times I throw it on myself, I don't turn transparent.
(Carnelian) You've been doing it wrong, sweetie. It's... well... it wasn't gonna work the first try, was it? And stop rubbing it all over your face or you'll melt off your coating. Do you want to end up ugly and deformed from the heat like you-know-who? No, right?
(Diopsido) Hm... It's strange when you're so sweet to me.
>The water from the snow dissolves the resin on contact, a clear sign she's not dealing with the real material. Even more obvious is the white cube of needles Carnelian holds in her hands. Solid couldn't shape a snowball. And just as Carnelian tried, smoothing the cube's corners, the asbestos compacted back into a cube shape. Returning the object to Solid, Carnelian wipes the asbestos from her face and rests her hands on her cheeks for a few seconds. Glancing sideways at you before letting go. Diopsido commented before reentering the near-infinite white horizon. (...)
(Carnelian) I'm out of options... I'm not enough on my own to refine Fluorite's memories. Again... I'll ruin another pair of gems' lives. Just like Kunzite and Onyx. Onyx and Solid—neither will get the ending they wanted or imagined. Do you understand, Leucozaphire? I just wanted to know if I could change after pouring everything out of my chest. But it seems that won't happen after all.
>She knelt down on the ground, hands covering her face. The android that had served as her seat stood up, revealing the form of a pyroclastic beast—a giant bear with monstrous fangs that break all sense of natural order. As she rose, Carnelian confessed, gradually shedding her guilt and arming herself with resolve. She looked directly at you, forming a new judgment of herself, then configured her screen to open a passage in the ground and descend into the Metacortex.

>>2372
>Purple Topaz was still on the ground, she could observe a liquid fall from Fluorite but it evaporated before touching the ground. Although, Purple Topaz was incapable of acting due to the cut Fluorite made to her requests. Fluorite looked up, she observed in detail how you approached, just like during the attack a long time ago, although she was exceptionally perceptive her actions have a long delay. She closed her eyes as soon as you held her, briefly and inadvertently pressing her lips for less than a second. She resumed a rigid posture and even more rigid speech, one that detached from her current position and only urged you to listen.
(Fluorite) The cliffs on the west coast. Alexandrite and Heliodor are patrolling in that area. In the Soft Forest, Aquamarine and Pink Spinel, and behind them, in the old Flower field, Green Diamond is teaching Garnet and Blue Diamond a lesson. The pyroclasts, Peridotite and her armada, will appear in the most unprotected area, right? Tara is more than 30 degrees to the east, it will take too long to provide us with support. In this state I am vulnerable, and as long as I remain this way, the chances of us being attacked immediately increase. Taaffeite, you are not a gem that would put others at risk, you would not let someone be kidnapped, just to have the opportunity to talk. None of us have that time.
>She reasoned, immediately finding the position of all the gems on the island. Although it was not information that Axinite's Fluorite knew, she simply seemed to manifest it suddenly. Acting soberly, Fluorite left a reduced catalog of options. She limited the talk to nothing and immediately dismissed both of their efforts as inopportune actions that could only cause problems for the others. And when Fluorite spoke to you directly, she did so with relaxed eyelids. Ignoring the crunching of her mineral, Fluorite detailed.
(Fluorite) The only reason I called you was to suffer the necessary shock to initiate my assimilation. I don't understand what you're trying to achieve. Wasn't I clear enough about the disadvantages of possessing Axinite? She's smart, but acts on her own. She lacks the sensitivity or attention to deal with unstable gems. And her passion and curiosity will only put us at greater risk day after day. Did you forget? Why would I want to show you the remains of Alexandrite and tell you it's best to get rid of them? Andalucite could handle Grossularia a thousand times better. In fact, she has a much more stable psychological profile. She has seen so many gems destroyed that the only way to alter her is to show her a gem that should not be repaired. The Cortex cannot achieve something like that.
>Andalucite prevented Grossularia's nonconformity with Axinite's Fluorite from escalating, having a visit only with her when the days passed. At first, Fluorite continuing to help in the medical area seemed like a mere coincidence. But, the way Fluorite refers to Andalucite makes her seem like a long-time target. Fluorite distracts you and does everything she can to hide her refusals, although she has no problem saying them directly. Little by little, you can feel her inclusions screech as they are forcibly separated from their broken fragments. Fluorite finally shows a face of effort.
(Fluorite) You're hurting me. The only reason I haven't broken is because Axinite's hardness is relatively high. But, if I lose focus, you'll really crush me. I'm sure you've seen it. How an organic being gets pureed due to pressure. It's never pleasant.
(Purple Topaz) Ngh- No… Taaffeite, stop… It-it's not good. What the Cortex wants is to hurt Fluorite. We don't…
(Fluorite) … Okay
>Fluorite's real body is soft, pliable, though slightly transparent, material. You are not breaking that, but Axinite's body which is shattering into pieces between its back and arms. The sound of crystal and Fluorite's complaints snap Purple Topaz out of her trance, and following her more coherent actions, she tries to stop you by holding one of your arms. As she moved, Purple pushed aside pieces of Andalusite with her dress, so some mixed with Fluorite's and yours, creating a colorful medley. Seeing Purple's intentions, Fluorite fell silent, she closed her eyes ready to be crushed by your grip, until she finally relented. As you released her, the pieces that couldn't escape fell immediately, and a few seconds later, Fluorite's two arms, which had weakened and showed two large indentation marks, followed. Looking away, Fluorite walked away, evading them and leaving them behind. Her original, transparent arms, still attached to her body, began to disappear without a mineral base.
(Fluorite) You win. Let's go talk somewhere the sun can reach us. If you both don't want to accompany me immediately, I'll wait for you for as long as it takes.
(...)
>According to Purple, there was a possibility that upon leaving the room, Fluorite would simply seek out Antofyllite or Dioptase to join them. Following her was easy as she moved at the pace of Chrysocolla under the sea or a Purple full of ceremonial robes. Purple stayed to gather the pieces of Andalusite, Imperial Topaz, Fluorite, and yours, as best she could given the emergency. Fluorite, on the other hand, did not leave the medical area, she observed the hall of inactive gems for a moment and then looked for the arches at the end of the corridor that generated a discreet balcony to the north exterior of the Academy. She didn't seem impatient, though neither did she seem eternally calm. She sat as best she could on the edge of the open platform, unable to adjust her dress due to the lack of her limbs. When Purple Topaz rejoined you, she initially had a serious expression. As seconds passed, she returned to her usual self.
(Purple Topaz) I think white doesn't suit you. Your hair is very thin and short, it gets lost among the color of the Academy walls. If I saw you from afar, I'd think you were completely bald. Fluorite! Even if you live for more than 10 thousand years, more than 100 thousand years, that doesn't mean you should neglect your style. Just look at Tara, she's the oldest, most worn-out gem I've ever met, but she stays fashionable. I wouldn't be surprised if gems doubt you if the first thing they feel when they see you is despair.
(Fluorite) Topaz, have you never seen a human before? Androids can help you with that. Although I am fundamentally different from any exocrodo, I do possess a similar appearance.

>>2380
(Purple Topaz) That… that’s a huge relief! I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to hate them completely, or that I’d hesitate to eliminate them if they looked nice or resembled cute animals I already knew. Now I can highlight how soft and strange you look without feeling guilty.
(Fluorite) …I’m sorry you had to see that mess.
>She immediately criticized Fluorite’s new appearance. Because the occasions when it came up were all risky, Fluorite couldn’t imagine something like this. However, her response didn’t directly involve her human appearance, but rather she related it to that of the enemy, diverting Topaz’s attention. Shifting from scolding to a friendly attitude, Topaz spoke about her denied interest in underground ecology. Pulling the folds of her dress together with her legs, Fluorite moved on from the topic and said after seeing the direction Topaz came from. She breathes, as a living being would, for a long time until she addresses you.
(Fluorite) Taaffeite, what troubles me, the only thing that has always caused me problems has been my humanity. It’s no artificial means, nor any elaborate attack by the Crust, but solely my nature. I would love to say that I suffer by my own choice or that the solution is as simple as letting myself be consumed by the eternity of immortality or death. However, just like you, who choose to remain a combat gem despite the risks, or who continue to love despite the inevitable consequences for both parties, I too, choose to be human because it is a product of my will. All the joys I have shared with you and all the suffering I have caused millions of humans and hundreds of gems, there is none that escapes my free decision. Life must remain, forever and ever. And so that in thousands upon thousands of billions of years you can exist in peace and harmony, all of you must accumulate experiences until you go extinct. Only in that way, as your life gains meaning, through loss and sacrifice-
(Purple Topaz) Stop, Fluorite. Could you please stop?
>Displaying her way of thinking, so elaborate, it seems to become increasingly noticeable that you are dealing with an eternal gem. The magnitude of her goals is virtually beyond the attack of pyroclasts or the resistance of gems. Although she didn’t mention any particular element that causes her discomfort, Fluorite seemed to believe her own words. She was raising her head millimeter by millimeter as if she were already visualizing that distant and imaginary period of peace she proposes. She had set aside her irrational attitude, Purple Topaz dedicated herself to listening attentively to Fluorite, but when she couldn’t take it anymore, she simply stopped her. She restructured her words to make the request softer, but Fluorite had already obeyed immediately. Topaz, who had been standing until now, sat down next to Fluorite, clenching her teeth for a moment as she understood and analogized. Indirectly, Topaz added a label to Fluorite’s discourse regarding her intentions, an inorganic one.
(Purple Topaz) You are just as I imagined. You are precise like Andalucite and direct like Heliodor. But also, you remind me of some Padparadscha and Taaffeite from a long time ago. Too straightforward to question why they didn't want to be. "My mission is to protect the integrity of the Academy's gems," ignoring the stability, feelings, or problems of said gems.
(Fluorite) I appreciate that kind of experience. The one of following an objective, determinedly, without questioning what put you on that path in the first place. It tends to generate a particular feeling of appreciation regarding time, it gives it great value.
(Purple Topaz) We have time, not for nothing did I gather most of them by the lake. Although a little over an hour is insignificant on the scale you operate. It can be extended to two if I send an erratic gem like Ruby to cause damage. You used to do these fun calculations all the time too, didn't you? Be completely honest, I beg you. Just one more time!
>Fluorite evaded Purple Topaz by describing the archetype she had in mind. Between the lines, it was clear that Fluorite still felt trapped in time, after all, her words only recalled her first excuse for you to try and let her go. Purple Topaz countered that with a clear move, waving away an android passing through the medical area's reception. Even if they attack suddenly, having all the gems gathered was the best they could do. And if the Cortex didn't act immediately, Purple Topaz had a second plan that relied much more on randomness and trust. Resting one of her hands on the platform, addressing Fluorite directly, Topaz tries to empathize with her, in the most absurd way, but still as a leader. She immediately stepped back, only to applaud as a more pleasant request was contrasted. Fluorite's response was many times cruder than Purple Topaz could have imagined. She did not lament, did not laugh, nor did she try to justify herself. Fluorite expressed her feelings, and what led her to have them so twisted and unjust.
(Fluorite) I deserve to die... I... locked hundreds of billions of humans in hell. I forced them to brutally attack and destroy them for thousands of years. I lovingly raised gems that I would later consume by snatching their bodies. And the gems they held in highest esteem, I took away their will to fight or sent them to their destruction... Taaffeite, listen, of course, I found it necessary to psychologically and accidentally torment you using Alexandrite. It is definitely necessary for me that you feel useless, lament, and think about sacrificing yourself all the time, Topaz. You don't know the degree of satisfaction and guilt I feel when I hear you fail as a leader... At this point, it's impossible for me to exist if I don't feed the same decadent farce day after day, and even now. I, for all of that, deserve... Penance, torture, something even beyond. It doesn't matter what, as long as I keep getting used to the damage or the wounds, then I will never be punished correctly.

>>2375
(Alexandrite) Haha! Teacher, you are very direct! But it's okay, I support what you say. If Fluorite doesn't have a future as a gourmet cook, then she can feed Purple's animals! There's nothing wrong with that, even cooking for organic beings has its own science. In a few months she'll be quacking at you.
(Chrysoberyl) I understood... I didn't want to accept it, or I didn't want to realize it. But thanks to your words I have reached a conclusion, Taaffeite. If it's true that my tea is only comparable to animal droppings, then there's not much to do. 3482 years ago, I must have failed in the operation to save Emerald. Yes, definitely, I should have taken a different path, even if it's a much darker one than any you can imagine.
(Alloclase) Is there a darker path than trying to clone yourself?
>Alexandrite lacks tact, as usual, she comments in a lighthearted way after stopping the struggle. This allowed Fluorite, still in her marked role, to hide her face in your belly, seeking, rather than a hug, a place to hide. Chrysoberyl, on the other hand, put aside her mask of shame and shyness; she hardened her face and noticeably bowed her head. She spoke in a somber tone similar to Rutile's when he tried to be scary or when he was a child. The resinous mud covered your face, causing the light you receive on your head to pass through an orange filter. In the darkness, out of your sight, Alexandrite got distracted and excused her departure with honor and responsibility.
(Alexandrite) Is that a rocket?! You did it! I can't believe you managed it, Ruby. Tell me, what speed does it reach? Is it a double gem assembly? Will they have to reassemble me when I reach my destination? I wonder which part of the Academy you'll blow up this time. (...) Don't worry, Teacher, I'm not going to explode. On the contrary! I am justice. As a knight, I will ensure that explosive materials do not put the festival at risk.
(Dioptase) Oh my. You've become more absent-minded, Taaffeite. You were holding mud both when you greeted us and when you blinded yourself. Let me help you. It's not good for you to get your clothes dirty in front of Rutile, it makes her nervous. Can you see much better now? It would be a problem if you had damaged your eyesight. Oh.
(Garnet) Master, I will demonstrate maximum effort and the best results.
(Phenacite) I will concentrate and try not to disappoint you, Master, I love you.
(Garnet) Hey, listen.
> Beside you, her touch was measured and delicate, Dioptase proceeded to clean your face little by little using a handkerchief. Unable to notice that it was the tea they were talking about. Although Dioptase was clear, Rutile ignored her gaze as soon as she spoke of her. Adjusting her glasses, she worried about your eyesight, probably much more than any other gem could worry. But she was interrupted immediately. First Garnet and then Phenacite, they formed between you and said a fleeting goodbye. The smile Phenacite gave you made it clear that part of your words, and not Alexandrite's, had resonated with her. Bidding them farewell, Dioptase looked for Chrysoberyl among the tea party. She held the last dirty tea in her hands like a relic and excused herself.
(Dioptase) Chrysoberyl left very embarrassed, I doubt she will serve her tea again, right? Does that mean the one I have in my hands is the last one? If so, I'll save it for the best moment of the festival. I'm sorry I can't join you at your tea party, Taaffeite. I hope you can find a much more unconditional provider next time. Oh! But even though I have many gems to help during the festival, it's different for Rutile. Are you available, Rutile? You wanted to get along better with other gems, right? Why don't you try with Taaffeite?
(Rutile) I... Ha... Dio... Okay. But... If Taaffeite or one of her apprentices does something stupid, don't count on me, I'll step away immediately.
(Alloclasa) The light passes with less intensity due to the fog. And this tea makes the little incident light conflict with my mineral. It's not the best day to feel dizzy, or maybe it's the other way around? Tell me, Taaffeíta, you also smeared it on your face, don't you feel the same? Doesn't your head spin? And what about now?
>As the administrative gem she always was, Dioptasa has other matters to attend to and they don't include tea parties. Instead, she leaves her sister in your care, who, it seemed, was just following her for several minutes. Rutilo struggles, both to see you properly and to say yes, but she finally agrees under conditions you can't necessarily control. The last participant of the tea party approached you, Alloclasa, her face noticeably covered in resinous mud, similar to tribal paintings. While you were still seated, Alloclasa took your head to play with it, forcing your neck to move in circles. Rutilo, once again, remained alone, watching.
>The explosion didn't cause much damage, only the fire from it. Probably Red Diamond will need to use special resin protection on her hair so it doesn't start spontaneously igniting. But, that falls under the concern of other gems. There are still other places that gems like Grossularia, Obsidian, and androids like Hortensia and Boogey prepared, but before reaching them, Rutilo stopped. Attracted by the simplest attraction of all, she approached Heliodor to question her immediately. Both were too direct with each other, only Rutilo tended to lose patience more often.
(Rutilo) What is this? It's empty. Heliodor, you shouldn't set up a stall if you're not going to put anything in it. You might please Tara by just standing there, but the rest of the gems usually have many more expectations regarding what they will randomly find today.
(Heliodor) Of course I have something interesting to show. They are battle trophies. Behind each cover is a trophy recovered in combat. Only I can't show them.
(Rutilo) What kind of exhibition is it forbidden to view the exhibition models?!
(Heliodor) It's a game, it's a trivia game. Or something like that. You're quite bitter, aren't you? Don't worry, I don't dislike gems like that. I'll start right away.
>As if trying to hide it for real, rather than just hiding its general appearance from public view. Heliodor had participated in other festivals before, but this was the first time she was doing it alone, hence her invariable neutral enthusiasm. After telling you and her, Heliodor declared about the game. She glanced at Rutilo and smiled with a strange calmness. By pulling a lever, a large number 1 emerged from the ceiling, along with keywords in the air. You could see the rest of the numbers up to 5 hidden if you looked hard enough.
(Heliodor) It's long and flexible. It has a thousand and one expert and not-so-expert techniques. When it comes to light, it's pink, but its interior is white. It tends to caress others gently or roughly depending on the mood of its owner.
(Rutilo) Is that a snake? A white curtain from the Shelter. Black Spinel's superalloy.
>A complete mystery. Rutilo is quite stubborn, so after accepting the challenge, she seems to put all her will into trying to guess. With a face that adhered its gaze to many objects and environments to try to guess, Rutilo made several attempts. She nudged you with her elbow to try to guess too, between frustration and prolonged eagerness to find the answer. Heliodor didn't make any exaggerated gestures, she simply said time was up, that she counted instinctively, and moved on to the next riddle.

>>2382
(Heliodor) It's small and round. It usually moves quickly, but when it's calm it sways from side to side. There are certain gems that are fascinated by it and study it day and night. Its interior is liquid, but its flow, though viscous, has high power. Regarding that content… Oh, I recently heard that Dioptase wanted to try it for the first time.
(Rutile) That's enough!! You really are an indecent gem, Heliodor! Y-you, just like Purple Topaz.
>With their first defeat under their belt, Rutile concentrated even harder. They closed their eyes and listened intently to Heliodor's every word. They continued like that for several seconds, saying nothing. In the silence, Heliodor began to count aloud, and only when she gave an extra hint did Rutile react. They pointed at Heliodor, whom you had seen actively reject such a label, and pulled your forearm to move you away from the challenge. Heliodor frowned for a moment, but she quickly regained her composure and revealed. Leaving her post and reaching them with a stuffed toy in her hands, shaped like a giant pink worm.
(Heliodor) The answers are Grossularia's arm and the new type of alloy-filled ash. All your attempts failed. Normally I'd roll both of them away, but I had fun teasing you, Rutile. Besides, Taaffeite is accompanying you. So this is your prize.
(Rutile) …Why…? Why is this doll so detailed? I never made a worm this size, they're disgusting. How can something like this… exist?
(Heliodor) Courtesy of the group of smuggler gems who dismantle forgotten objects from the Academy and create artifacts or trinkets. Was the original base yours? Perhaps… Am I being inconsiderate? No, it's impossible, I'm rewarding you.
(...)
>The cycle repeated a couple more times, with Rutile showing and not showing enthusiasm when participating in other games, eventually losing patience. They continued, so Rutile was now just observing her surroundings, feeling somewhat content with the rest. On your head, you wore a golden tiara, in your hands, several bracelets, and the giant worm from before. Rutile stopped by a practice area, dedicated to testing how many straw dummies could be cut with a single sword stroke. The record was held by Grossularia and her unique sword control. Turning to look at you, Rutile's expression threatened to be the same, except that, following her words, she softened. She immediately fell for you, only to accidentally try to empathize.
(Rutile) You don't need to say anything, Taaffeite. I know I sometimes act like an idiot too. You and I live in the same place, we share important gems, and that's exactly why... I've never dismissed anything I've made for you. I hate it when others have a misconception about me, so don't you form a wrong idea either. Regarding you, I think what you do is important. If Dioptase says you're special, then I can repeat it in words and accept it, even if I don't believe you are, entirely... Again, it's better if you stay quiet.
(Purple Topaz) Taaffeite!! (...) Was that Rutile? You know, seeing you two together brought a nice memory to mind. Tell me, could it be... she's ready to forgive you? It's either that or you've already won her over. Don't hide it from me anymore! You even took a combat trophy. I can see it peeking out from behind your mineral! ...! Do you want it? Don't you think it suits me much better?
>When Topaz called you, upon returning to see Rutile, she had already turned away and was leaving. Wearing a shiny Academy leader's band and a veil of steam made by Tara, Purple Topaz appeared to greet you. Intrigued by Rutile's presence, Topaz played with you. And when you finally let your guard down, she stole the giant worm from your hands and wrapped it around her neck. She modeled it for you as if it were the latest fashion, but was interrupted by the sound of bells and Emeth alerts. Hurriedly, Purple Topaz took one of your hands and led you directly to the back of the festival from the Academy entrance. Several Taras were applauding the instrumental and melodic preparation song on stage.
(Purple Topaz) Ah! It finally started! I completely forgot. Come with me.
(Tanzanite) Bravo! Bravissimo! It's the best I've ever heard, you should take this melody to the land of nine mountains and eight seas. Can you play Aum, Shangarak, and the 5 Great Sins?
(Dioptase) We don't take requests from the audience... But I'll keep playing during the next performance. The n-next performance! "The Memory Box of a Delicate Iridescent Gem - Part 1" by Garnet, Phenacite, Uranophane, and Hydrangea. It's an adaptation of the epic and emotional story from the autobiographical work The Memory Box of a Delicate Iridescent Gem written by Purple Topaz (and Dioptase).
>The fog is dense to prevent the appearance of pyroclasts, but within this space, Tanzanite controls its density and allows the stage to be seen. Purple guided you to the center with her, and you could see gems like Anthophyllite, Amethyst, and Grossularia gathering in the second row, while in the first, androids like Little Pity, Emeth, and Rem were responsible for both observing and providing support if necessary. You could see Red Diamond and Alexandrite arriving together, the latter greeting you briefly and hyperactively before sitting down. Dioptase raised her musical instrument and paid attention to the audience, as if counting the attendees, she soon announced. The crystals modulated their light intensity as the curtain opened, showing Purple Topaz, the fake one, in the foreground. Purple looked amazed at Garnet's appearance, which between green and violet colors, was as far from her usual appearance as Purple's current one.
(Purple Topaz) Is that me? I look beautiful! Rutile really outdid herself with the costume and makeup.
(Garnet) Mystic Topaz was born when the information about my inclusions reached its limit, overflowing with bewilderment. Amidst aurora colors, Topaz could have become a sleepy, foolish, or absent-minded gem, but instead, she just became wise, along with everything else. (...)
(Phenacite) River shrimp? I'll train to become a trustworthy gem!
(Purple Topaz) I was surprised when I found out. Garnet has an enormous talent for acting, for playing any role, of any entity or gem, at any moment. Whether it's because of her double composition or not, it's a fact that she has a lot of fun. And because of that, she wanted you to see her, and to know that, just like Phenacite and you, she can also create art and express her emotions, because she loves you. (...) Of course, I don't care about any of that. This play is about me! My popularity will skyrocket!
>Dressed in white with gold details, Phenacite, who was only in the background on stage, appeared delivering her lines, which at the same time were also yours. Her hair isn't completely lilac, not necessarily because she couldn't dye it; the same happens with the character of Hydrangea, who doesn't fully adopt the appearance of the secondary gems in the play, but only Garnet, who perfectly imitates Purple's external and internal voice. Beside you, an unusual weight broke the right side of your shoulder; it was Purple's head. Comfortably and with admiration, Topaz spoke of your apprentice, the one who was most skilled with the sword. After saying that, Topaz closed her eyes and remained that way for several seconds, until all of a sudden she repositioned herself and exclaimed to herself. Alcoclasa and Padparadscha had arrived late for the first act, but it wasn't alarming; they were going to sit near the center. The fog dissipated, little by little, increasing the radius of the dome.

>>2374
Kek her appearance before Tanzanita gave more fun with the fact that she was crazy. I think her madness isn't very well appreciated currently by the pics. I had something similar with Dumortierita, her pics were too calm
Although in itself, finding a monkey with dark hair and hidden dark blue colors was complicated.

>>2375
She's very pretty. I always described her as yellow, but the truth is that she would actually be orange kek, same with Rutilo, both. I'm curious about the white line under the image, I imagine it's her leg. Is the image cut off? There's something there that couldn't be hidden!
>The creature.
Kek

>>2376
I did this in a couple of hours with IA, the video also another couple of hours, with IA. Here is the full image. This doesn't form part of the illustration project I mentioned a while ago.

First. Happy new year!!
Second. I think I temporarily lost all my images and files of this and other roles ayyyyyyyy I just hope it's not permanently.

>>2377
My idea is to save humans patiently instead of having Fluorite save them all at once. To me, there won't be much difference between two hundred billion years and a hundred and eighty billion years of waiting, so maximizing the salvation we can squeeze out of captured gems isn't the most important thing. If this is the most useful thing for us to keep harvesting in peace during that time, that's what we'll do.
>Either Peridotite ignores or doesn't care that as a gem, hearing and imagining the suffering of dozens of gems isn't pleasant for her either. She has no reason to tell her either, she's so far removed from those hypothetical images right now that she can abstract herself enough not to feel it. Maybe it will be harder for her to face it when it's closer to becoming real, or maybe not, she hasn't had contact with any surface gems in a long time.
>Dumortierite and Carnelian have been down there for so long that they can already be considered crust gems, and their sister has as little contact with the surface as they do, and has for years. If she can make excuses so easily for those cases, she'll surely be able to make them for all the others when she sees them coming down to the crust.
I don't think she has the makings of a leader, but managing surface gems would be simpler than managing crust people.
>She wasn't considering herself as a replacement for Fluorite, but suggesting a plan and not being willing to do it herself but leaving it for someone else to do is cowardly. She doesn't need to imagine what it would be like to lead the academy anyway, Gardan Siti immediately explains why it's unfeasible.
Oh, that's a good idea. Rutile would surely be more moved to see his sister with her old head or one more like it.
>As usual, she doesn't show even a hint of emotion in Peridotite's presence; it's not until her sister joins them that she injects more emotion into her words and expressions, first smiling at her when she enters and then resting her chin between her fingers to think about her proposal.
Huh? But she agreed to be here because she said she could...
>She felt strange about the immediate reactions of both Peridotite and her own sister and began to explain herself timidly as she watched the latter approach, too embarrassed to finish before the former took her in her arms.
>She didn't stop being confused after the hug, she just calmed down and decided to smile and share her sister's happiness, which she practically motivated her to feel in the first place.

>>2378
I think it's fine. It's better to express what you feel sincerely, it makes me happy too.
>She had wanted to feel another gem since she stopped hugging Dumortierite, and long before. Strangely, she missed having such closeness with another gem since she went down to the crust, although even at the academy direct contact between them was rare.
We'll see them again soon, that's for sure. And if we can see them, there will be something we can do too.
>She was momentarily worried about the things her sister was saying with such optimism in front of Peridotite, she tried to answer them with words as confident as her smile and just as vague.
That one attacked me from behind once too. The others call him Eye, I think.
>She pointed to the failed experiment to present it to her sister. It was easier for her to remember her first encounter with him than how those who didn't have objectifying nicknames like Peridotite referred to him.
Swords... That's good. I feel like I haven't touched one since I was just born. Although it would be a shame if you broke them like my teacher's just to satisfy my nostalgia with how difficult they must have been to get.
>She averts her gaze towards the ceiling, as she does from time to time when she tries to remember when she still lived at the academy or times just as distant.
Organic beings never attracted me as much as weapons, but learning new things is always exciting, just like surprises... Do you want me to feel those emotions or do you not like hearing her talk?
>She diverts her attention to Peridotite to ask something inconsequential with little curiosity. It's not important what she thinks of her sister's feelings or state, it's more likely that inviting her to explain herself will only bring useless things or things that are better avoided.
Have you always called me that? Or did you lose respect for your older little sister?
>She feigns pain simply for being called by a nickname she wouldn't expect to hear from Onyx's mouth, covering her mouth with her sleeve as if struggling to keep her voice from breaking from the shock.
She is my older sister.
>She immediately uncovers her face to point to the aforementioned.
You are Cornaline's younger sister, Onyx.
>She points to the other aforementioned person with the same speed and without a trace of the previous pain.
I don't know how an eternal being runs out of time, but you heard Peridotite. Annihilate those humans and we can leave here for anywhere else but alone.
>She continues pointing without wasting time.
You know how to do it, right?
>She leans forward, just a little, so as not to look down from so high at the gem she's talking to, although she knows that to achieve it fully she would need to crouch down.
I don't actually have experience doing it. I just heard Dumor talk about how it felt and saw how she shone when she tried to do it with me. I would go down to give you a demonstration if I could. Although I've always had trouble shining, I really want to try it right now. Do you see a way to get there?
>She looks in every way for a path to the humans and even asks her sister for help, turning to face her for the first time since she started giving orders to Onyx and with the same lack of tact.
She described something I've never felt and won't be able to understand until I try it for the first time. That I can't even imagine it well makes it a surprise... She said she was trying to save me. Aren't I supposed to be the older sister and something like a teacher who sacrifices herself for her?
>Finally, and perhaps for the first time since she came down to the crust or much earlier, she allows herself to show an angry expression on her face, or can no longer avoid it. Even if she tries to form a big smile, her teeth are clenched so tight that she looks more like a wild animal baring its fangs before leaping into attack.
Is this the right emotion!? I think humans are saved by strong emotions, so maybe with this I could save as many as Dumor. Even if I lose all my emotions doing it, I wouldn't mind losing this one.
>Clenching her fist tighter than her jaw, she hits the nearest wall. After so long without intentionally attacking something, she feels eager to test how much she can break while like this.
It wasn't the first time nor the first time she tried to destroy me at some point, even you did it. I've gotten angry at others for making me less than that, but no matter how much or how many times I got angry at one of my sisters, it didn't mean I stopped loving them.
>She pulls her fist away from the wall, slowly bringing her still-tense arm back. Her gaze fixed on the floor, she can more clearly feel how hunched over she is, even though she's no longer speaking to Ónice and the pressure on her shoulders has lessened. She feels tougher in this position, practically the opposite of what she does to ensure a gem of lesser hardness doesn't break by getting too close.
>She closes her eyes and, after several seconds, opens them again to straighten her posture and soften her mineral, if such a thing is possible.
I'm sorry. I said I might have something to tell you later. I think that was it. You saved me again from making a difficult decision, but I can't do much for Dumortierite anyway, not as much as I could have if I had cared a little more about others than myself and acted sooner.
>She prefers not to make eye contact with either of them as she explains herself in a more detached voice.
I'm stupidly optimistic. I preferred to let someone else make that sacrifice because I hoped to keep my emotions intact so that one day, far in the future, I could see someone special again and feel as happy as you do. Hm...
>She speaks without pause, straight, her gaze as fixed on an arbitrary point as her posture is stiff. When she reaches the end of her explanation, she tilts her head in a robotic motion.
Maybe I deserve the first more than the second, although doing so would have made me more deserving of the second but would have made me incapable of doing it... How funny.
>She turns back to face her sister, her expression as dull as the one she usually gives Peridotita. Raising her hand to her mouth to pretend she's going to whisper a secret doesn't much relieve the tension.
I don't know if she's testing me now or if I'm imagining things and Peridotita doesn't have the capacity to be bothered by something as tiny as me, but I have the feeling that this isn't the real Carnelian Ónice and that this is another one of her experiments that she once again didn't take the time to explain.
>She points over her shoulder with the thumb of the hand not used for whispering.
Do you think I shouldn't have even risked assuming that and acted differently? Or is it too late for that? I guess I already gave her the orders like Peridotita said.

>>2380

Fluorite... do you really think my actions are guided by logic? I understand what you're saying, but how to put it... What you say makes sense, but my sense of justice tells me not to listen to you!

> The embrace she shares with Fluorite allows her to hear every little crackle in its material
> She can even recognize which parts belong to Axinite and which do not
> Despite knowing this, she continues. Not out of logic, not because she thinks it's a good idea
> She continues with her embrace because it's what a foolish emotional gem like her would do
> Taaffeite tried a while ago to be guided solely by rational acts and recognized that these also lead to mistakes
> If that was the case, then all that remains is to continue on the path her heart tells her is right

(...) Alexandrite would surely say something like that. I don't want to disappoint them, and for that very reason, I won't let you go until you agree to talk.

> Her small desperate cry gives her the courage to continue and silences her doubts
> A phrase like that could have come from the mouth of her apprentice or her master
> At least that's how she feels when she expresses that with a smile
> If she truly wants to be a gem worthy of her predecessors
> If she plans to be someone the younger ones look up to with pride
> Then. she cannot allow herself to falter at a moment like this
> Even if Purple Topaz asks her to stop, she doesn't intend to
> Noticing her determination, Fluorite finally gives in

...

> After breaking the embrace, Taaffeite could clearly see the current face of... Fluorite?
> She hadn't been able to pay attention to the changes it underwent due to the constant information stimulus before
> Besides that, her eyes were closed for most of the time she held her
> In other words, this was the first time her gaze analyzed in detail who was once Fluorite
> Its current form was... "alien" and unknown to her
> No, she had seen that gray hair and that fragile body before
> It was so long ago and in such a disastrous state that it could have been a dream
> A hallucination, a lie, something her own subconscious created in her moment of greatest confusion
> That's what she thought, but now she sees it's real, it's... very real...
> Nervous, she took a step back, not with the intention of moving away but of preparing herself
> Without saying a word, she observed every movement of the new entity in front of her and then accompanied it

>>2381

So... what should I call you now? Sally? (...) Tara told us about this... facet of yours. I expected that your undefined and weak features would be something that would leave no trace. I thought your transformation into a silicoclastic being had been complete, but now I see that all this time you have always been... sput HUMAN.

> After a long silence, Taaffeite finally showed herself ready to speak
> Her face showed a combination of disgust, rage, and weariness when dealing with Fluorite
> No, she didn't even deign to address her by that name anymore
> The being before her eyes was no longer a silicoclastic being, it never had been
> Taaffeite was convinced that Fluorite's human self and gem self were two distinct, unrelated entities
> She thought there were no more than mere traces of humanity left within her psyche
> She never expected to see her in this form while she was fully conscious
>Doing so displeases her, she can even feel her disgust rise up her throat
>It materializes as silica that invades her trachea and mouth through internal ruptures
>The mass of disdain and ill humor fills her mouth, forcing her to spit very close to Sally's feet
I'm not sure if that was her name or someone else's, you correct me and pretend she's saying the right one
>Expelling her discomfort, Taaffeita locks her gaze on the person in front of her and recognizes her for what she always was
>A human, a disgusting, repulsive, and weak human, the worst of her kind

Let's avoid comparisons please. (...) You're right, you are that and more, I feel as little compassion for you now as I do for any other human. Honestly, I'm even reconsidering handing you over, but... I won't. Sally... despite being the cause of our suffering, you are also responsible for us emerging. Without your guidance, this academy might not have been born, denying me and the others every little joy we have experienced. I am... gra-TE-ful for that.

>She raises her hand with a grimace on her face to put an end to all these absurd comparisons
>Even if they are justified, she doesn't want her or other gems to be compared to this Sally
>Having lost all the respect and affection she once had for Fluorite, Taaffeita expressed herself with painful honesty
>She felt heartbroken knowing that all this time she had been serving a human who only pretended to be a gem
>Despite that, and much to her regret, she had to admit something
>If it weren't for Fluorite, the fate of all the gems on this island would have been the same as that of the foreign gems
>They would be eternal "babies" without the ability to understand their surroundings or relate to others
>None of that justifies all the harm Sally/Fluorite has done, but a "thank you" was necessary
>Reluctantly and unwillingly, Taaffeita uttered those words almost forcefully

Well, with that aside. Let's clarify one thing, you are no longer the leader of this place. You were given the opportunity to lead a quiet and relaxed life in the safety of the academy. A gift you decided to use to conspire behind our backs, I don't care if it was because of your human factor or Axinite's influence. What you did was commit treason, I agree that you deserve punishment. Destroying you is out of the question given your importance, so the best thing from now on will be to treat you the same way we have treated PINK Diamond. No, someone like you requires greater vigilance. (...) That's what I would like to say but... I am not the leader either, the one responsible for that decision is... you Purple Topaz.

>She spat once more to get rid of the bad taste in her mouth that "thank you" left
>Her gratitude was sincere, but she couldn't tolerate saying it to someone like her
>Another thing she wasn't going to tolerate was giving her the satisfaction of continuing to influence this island
>If removing her from the leadership position isn't enough, then more drastic actions will be necessary
>From now on, Sally/Fluorite will not be treated as an inhabitant of the crystal land
>Instead, she will become a prisoner and both her access to information and freedom will be restricted
>Having expressed her personal judgment and opinion, Taaffeita relaxed her expression and turned to Purple Topaz
>She placed a hand on hers, as if to tell her to support her no matter what she chooses, and waited for her verdict

>>2384
>There's something there that couldn't be hidden!
What you see is what you get. Don't ask questions, you won't like what you might find!

>image
The paint bottles in the background give the impression of socks. Which I find funny because if I see Taaffeita leaving clothes lying around while painting kek. Is she painting a particular gem? I see a vague humanoid shape but I wouldn't know who it corresponds to.

>video
I started watching the lyrics and I feel like these verses resonate quite a bit with the character of Taaffeita

If I were to meet you
You would steal away my attention
And wear a smiling appearance
That ran away many times before

This serves to represent Alex's lost memories

The me now
Throws away anything and everything
Still gives everything up
Searches for meaning
And helps people
Remaining unchanged uneventfully
I end up clinging
To the current state of my fate

This is very much Taaffeita's whole arc, in general several verses of that song can be interpreted as those two things.

>>2387
>Is she painting any particular gem? I see a vague humanoid shape but I wouldn't know who it corresponds to.
AI product. I tried to get it to paint someone but it stuck too closely to the reference image I gave it.

>in general several verses of that song
B-but those aren't. I subtitled the song myself. Are you sure, little black boy?

>>2388
I only see Japanese subs in the video, I searched the song title on Google and this came up
https://genius.com/Genius-english-translations-reol-asymmetry-english-translation-lyrics

>>2389
Now it's in Japanese for the audio.
https://thwiki.cc/index.php?title=%E6%AD%8C%E8%AF%8D:Draw&setlang=en

>>2379
I like change and I like surprises. If designing a sister would make her predictable, I would choose randomly or not choose at all so as not to get bored of her quickly. But I don't think she's cut out for something like that. Some were born to be elegant and responsible older sisters and I to be a cute, young little sister. It's the cross we have to bear.
>She stretches casually upwards, reaching the end of her justification, raising her arms over her head with her hands clasped, to give the impression that she neither regrets nor is overly proud of the cards life dealt her.
It was Peridot's idea to call me that, you'll get an idea of what her nicknames are like. If she didn't call me that, I might still be Pink Diamond's Replacement.
>She smiles, both at hearing Carnelian joke and at the good things she had already said about Onyx. It's nice to see her be something other than professional, serious, or somehow melancholic.
I'd probably call you Carn. It would be more fun if we had a Cairngorm I could call Corm, I'd mispronounce the last letter occasionally to confuse her.
>She places a finger under her chin as she thinks aloud about the mechanics of Carnelian's nickname, as always, one more amusing than affectionate. She can't help but smile imagining the misunderstandings those names would cause and the situations that would result when she refused to fix them. To her, this is what peace looks like.
Calling everyone by their mineral is obvious and boring, though easy to understand. Spudz had a good idea. I'll save another name for a special occasion.
>She waves to Solid again, wiggling her fingers in the air as she sees her turn around. She doesn't stop smiling as if they were just playing until Carnelian seems to abruptly change the subject, though she understands afterward that it's related to the previous one.
I had forgotten those existed. I never saw a complete one.
>She crosses her arms, trying to remember the device she used to communicate with Circita once. Inanimate objects don't stay in her memory for long, not even those of strange origin.
>That she overcame her feelings about Onyx and Kunzite's disappearance shortly before descending to the crust also has something to do with that forgetfulness and with the fact that she didn't investigate those pyroclastic beasts further once there.
I hadn't thought much about it, I just assumed something like that when I first heard what Fluorite did. I guess I do work better when I act without thinking first.
>She frowns slightly, technically it's both new and old news. Like the previous thing, it's just another thing she's already moved past.
>She takes an extra moment to pretend to push aside the lock of hair that always covers one eye and huffs. What she's really doing is trying to dismiss the feeling she gets hearing that Axinite is now going through the same thing, and that if it hadn't been her, it could have been Dioptase. She doesn't even bother uncovering her eye again after the lock returns to its usual place, preferring to focus on what they were talking about in the first place.
My opinion of them hasn't changed much since I last saw them. Nor do I hate most of them for what they did or tried to do, even if it was the opposite of what I would do. In this situation, there are only two or three individuals in the entire world I can hate or blame for these things.
>She doesn't stop crossing her arms, just tightens them more. In the moments when she's not speaking, she bites her lips so hard she thinks she feels her mineral breaking her own mineral, despite not making that much effort not to speak. Expressing what she thinks about Carnelian's revelations isn't difficult, it's the same thing she's thought for hundreds of years, even if this is only the second or third time she's said it out loud to someone else. The same thing she says about Kunzite applies to any other gem she's ever met, she's still waiting to meet a gem that's the exception to that.
I knew that just breaking her and throwing her into the sea was never going to be a permanent solution... But not that.
>For the first time, she hears something completely new and doesn't have anything to say about it. Processing that and what they were talking about before all at once and without immediately revealing her opinion is too difficult to do on the first try. She's relieved to have Solid right beside her to give her a minute of distraction.
Hm. Changing is easier when I don't even try. I wish I could change so much that I turn around and go back to how I was. And use a sword again just for fun. I'd be happy if other gems could have fun like that too for millions of years.
>It's not the tender interaction between Solid and Carnelian, nor is it imagining a fun future that makes her smile, but rather saying almost exactly the same thing as years ago while claiming she's changed. She wants to imagine that the way she smiles at the fanged beast isn't noticeable as sarcastic; pyroclasts don't tend to be good at reflecting images despite the whiteness of their surfaces.

>>2375
In almost all the images I find of that character, she appears naked or in very strange clothes, and I don't want to spend so much time looking for more pics and characters. After posting the ones from before, I keep remembering others with monochromatic hair.

>>2384
Tanzanite looked crazier before, yeah. I think Dumortierite is fine not always looking crazy; I can take her more seriously than Tanzanite, whom I only saw as a funny crazy person all the time.

If you had a backup on Drive or the cloud, important things would never be lost forever. I'm posting a Christmas image of Leucozafiro that I forgot to use last year and the year before, since I don't think I'll have a chance to use it this year or the next if not.

Oh Beri, don't be so dramatic. I'm not enjoying your tea, am I?

>I wasn't planning on offending Chrysoberyl with that comparison
>However, understand why she's upset
>Taafeite also didn't like hearing Tara call her silica excrement
>Although Taafeite certainly took it much better than Chrysoberyl
>In an attempt to calm her, she smears a bit more tea on her head
>Maybe it's not the cleanest thing in the world, but it's not such strange behavior to deny her

Rocket? Umm... good luck with that... You guys have fun too and be careful not to explode.

>Alexandrite's strange comment made Taafeite look around
>The dirt on her face prevents her from confirming the veracity of that rocket
>And since she can't see it, she decides to believe it doesn't exist
>Still confused and with a stained face, Taafeite wishes her apprentices the best
>Giving them free rein to enjoy the festival to their heart's content
>Although before they leave, she stretches out her arms and tries to pet them blindly

Thanks for your help Diop. Don't worry about the tea. I'll convince Beri to throw a bigger party another time so she can share her tastes with the rest. Tilo... that's a rather difficult request to fulfill but... I'll do my best! (...) Dizziness? No, although my vision feels a bit gone! Aaah, the world is moving!

>She blinked a few short times once her face was completely cleaned
>There's no trace of Chrysoberyl around, she'll have to look for her later to apologize and explain herself
>Although organizing a surprise party for her wouldn't be bad...
>Putting aside her future plans, Taafeite focused on the present
>She seems more than capable of fulfilling Rutile's request, but still takes the time to tease her
>Likewise, she also allows herself to play along with Alloxene
>Pretending ignorance of the movements she forces her to make
>Then acting as if it were an earthquake

Is... Padparadscha?

>While accompanying Rutile, she learned that the explosion was real
>It's incredible she didn't hear it before, but at least that confirms it wasn't that serious
>Heliodor's games took Taafeite by surprise
>Appearing quite indecisive and unsure about her answer
>Padparadscha is pink, expert in several techniques, and until recently used to enjoy petting and hugging others
>Those were all the similarities she could find, but as for the rest...
>Long and flexible was still something she could try to justify, but the white interior didn't match at all

>>2383

One of... Ena's... cookies? (...) Maybe we lost, but in a way, we won, don't you think?
>Taaffeita was really bad at this kind of game
>Every single one of her attempts didn't just fail
>She didn't even come close to the correct answer in any case
>Still, she fought against the bitter feeling of defeat and declared some kind of moral victory
>Losers don't get prizes; them holding one in their hands proved their triumph
>Besides, Rutilo seemed to be having fun, and that was a victory in itself
>Happy to see her joyful, Taaffeita accepted the worm and continued accompanying her through the rest of the festival

(...) Forgive me? That happened a long time ago—I thought Tilo already knew. Did the rest of them think otherwise too? Oh, wow... I hope I didn't give the wrong impression about that. Anyway, despite all that misunderstanding, things ended well, don't you think? (...) Pink suits you much better than me, you can keep it.

>Taaffeita's expression upon hearing Rutilo was one of surprise
>She seemed puzzled to hear something like that coming from her
>She was about to correct her and clear up the misunderstanding, but Rutilo gestured for silence, and Taaffeita obeyed
>Unable to speak, she took her hand and held it in her own, then nodded with a huge smile
>Topaz Purple's call causes Rutilo to run off, leaving Taaffeita alone with her
>Putting a hand to her face, Taaffeita looked worried about what the others might think
>However, she soon set that concern aside and started playfully teasing Topaz Purple
>Handing over all her accessories for her to style as she pleased

River shrimp? Hmpf... I don't sound anything like that at all. I'll have to give Ena private lessons so she learns how to impersonate me properly. Yes, Topur, you're very important and dazzling, but the ones on stage are them. Keep quiet and let them shine as brightly as they can, just this once.

>On her way to her seat, she greeted every gem her eyes met
>Once the play began, she fixed her gaze on the stage
>It was an important moment for her apprentices, and she didn't want to miss a single second of their performance
>Crossing her arms, she pretended to be annoyed by Fenaquita and her portrayal
>However, anyone who looked at her face would know that wasn't the case
>She was clearly delighted by the sweet way they were portraying the elders
>Giving Topaz Purple heavy pats on the head, she urged her to stay quiet and focus on the play

>>2390
From the two-minute mark it feels like a pretty accurate song. Are you sure the link you shared is for the same song? The translated lyrics don't match a single verse.

Turnos mañana

>>2391
>Carnelian has the elegance of an ancient gem, but it's not because she is one or someone taught her; instead, Carnelian had to work hard to imitate Yellow Diamond's mannerisms whenever she could see her, even from within Onyx. You can see the flaws in her ways after so long, leaning too far forward and losing the harmony of her crossed legs. When Carnelian looked at you, she gave you a serious, skeptical, cruel gaze. It seemed that little by little, upon contact with her beloved pyroclastic beast, she was returning to the cruel Carnelian of before, who barely considered you a companion in the Cortex or on the Surface. Although, there was a chance that she was saying what she was saying now because she didn't know how to react to your unexpected support. She details.
(Carnelian) There's a special machine that Hawk Eye used to torment my Fluorites. Maybe you should recalibrate it and get in there so you can live an eternity deceived by the world. It's not much different from what Fluorite does with Axinite; you can live outside of time, feeling only pleasant things. Or maybe it's better that you don't recalibrate it... If you're trying to cheer me up now, you're doing it in a strange way. Don't you remember that I don't like seeing you happy? Or anyone? Surrounded by so much white. I doubt anyone down here who isn't Onyx or Diopside can smile with such purity. Are you doing it intentionally? How disgusting. Stop rubbing it in my face. Before being an envious gem, I am a spiteful gem; you'll make me fill with hatred.
>She implied between the lines that she would prefer you suffer an eternity on your own, although it was clearly a lie. Her questions are more rhetorical, because, after all, even Carnelian has some affection for Kunzite or Onyx. She mentioned Onyx, as another gem whose smiles she dislikes seeing, but this time, to compare her to you. She brought her hand to her face, pressing her nose as if she could smell something foul from you. Although, the Cortex is full of those kinds of smells due to magma gases; it would be strange for gems in the Cortex to smell good. Sadly, you are not old enough by thousands of years to feel those sensations so clearly, not as much as Pink Diamond. Carnelian showed you her fist, indicating that she could shatter you at any moment. Although, coming from a gem with a hardness of 7, it seemed like nothing more than a vague joke or provocation. When she tired of it, Carnelian lowered her gaze; she said, in an honest and somewhat fragile tone.
(Carnelian) I didn't study human science, the mystery of inclusions, or Fluorite's false harmony for centuries to become a monster. Or to be remembered as one.
>The pyroclastic beast beneath you reacted, stood up, and shook off the dust. First, it observed Carnelian, who ignored it completely, and then it observed you, opening its arms to try and catch you. But as soon as Solid appeared in its view, it stopped. It hunched over, and you could see it in more detail; it was nothing more than an improved version of an android molded from the union of humans and black silica threads. You remember its horns well; they were very useful for carrying and holding. It is probably capable of speaking, much better than any android due to its altered human components, but being capable of it and wanting to do it are different things. Carnelian, standing, gave you a warning and some instructions. She seemed to be about to leave.
(Carnelian) When I come looking for you again, if Fluorite hasn't been destroyed yet, maybe there'll be a way to eliminate Peridot. So if you ever cared for her even a little over these years, you should start looking for the human Low, or Tara's human.

(Diopside) Much better now! Once I cover her whole face with snow, she won't look so terrifying anymore. I should find something to make her a nose...

>Diopside gathered more white snow from the ground, or its asbestine equivalent. This time it accepted a square arrangement, and with it, approached the beast's face lowered conveniently for her. For a while, she played around, reshaping the pyroclastic beast's face into the square head of a character shown on human television frequencies. Solid scanned the area looking for something to finish her artwork. But Carnelian had already decided to leave without saying goodbye. Forming an elevator to take her out of this layer of the Crust using a screen, she waited a few seconds for Solid, who was still scanning the area. She warned her impatiently, then immediately grabbed her arm to leave. Her hardness was the same after all—she could afford to be rough, though you'd never seen her act that way except psychologically against Onyx. Solid waved goodbye to you several times, leaving you behind on the terrain full of toxic white.

(Carnelian) Solid, stop doing that. Crust artifacts degrade when exposed to snow moisture.

(Diopside) But this snow is dry— (...) Whoa! See you later, Sapphire! Bye-bye, Sapphire! Catch you later, Sapphire!

(...)

>As your vision fully returned, the surroundings became blinding—no matter which horizon you looked toward, an enormous light flashed even from kilometers away. The brightest one, coming from the massive magmatic flow only a few hundred meters from you, is the hardest to describe. It doesn't hurt because of your composition; in fact, it might remind you of staring at the sun. But between staring at the sun and an object standing between the sun and the earth, it's far easier to embrace the full magnificence. Limolite believes she is that magnificence, positioning herself where the light originates—but she's the object. With a performance worthy of Tara's birthplace, she screams and pretends to be startled, calling out to her surroundings. She doesn't stay that way for long before returning to her usual self, gloating alone.

(Limolite) Yiaaaaaah! These zombie gems don't plan on stepping aside! But, as incredible as it seems, it doesn't bother me. I'm used to moving through crowds stuck to the ground trying to touch me with their hands, but the closest they ever get is pressing their faces against the soles of my feet. Don't worry, it's not something I do for fun! Right now, you should feel privileged, ladies. You're seeing me almost at eye level. Even if you're obsessed with collapsing onto the ground, it's almost the same height, right? Look at me, look at me. Want me to strike a vain pose for you? Like this? Enough. Stop. Prolonged exposure to your courtly gazes will make my skin react. I don't want to become more beautiful than I already am! Stop it!!

>Apparently, in space it's not allowed to look gems directly in the eye, but since she's a foreigner—one who arrived at the origin of inclusions—Limolite lets it slide. Seconds after clarifying this, she cycles through several phases: one where she seeks attention, another where she rejects it, and yet another where she seeks it again.

>>2395
>Limonite is a very active kind of gem, not as unhinged as Dumortierite or Tanzanite, but on a level of pride and prejudice that surpasses both of them combined. After lowering her long skirt from her exotic pose, Limonite has trouble getting out of her position. She hasn't moved since you spat her out. She kept asking repeatedly, referring to some spatial frequency you've never heard of. Probably the result of spreading like clay-termite across planets. Seeing a torn, dirty piece of fabric on the floor, she yells again at Peridotite.
(Limonite) You could start by telling me where your idiot traps are. Come on, tell me. Can I step here? Here? Why are you looking so confused? “Pallasite asteroid and the Golden Disc, Universal Anti-Invasion Guide”—you must’ve picked it up at least once in the last 50 thousand years. (...) !!Peridotite!! You kept your population far too ignorant!! Now I don’t even know if what’s in front of me is some segregation trap. Will it erase me if I touch it? It looks so bad it definitely has to be a trap, or a dead creature.
(Sapphire) Those are remains. Remnants of clothing. Every now and then, human fibers seep through the ceiling and fall nearby. I use them to make myself outfits in the dark. And when they degrade, I toss them in that direction. It’s not dangerous.
(Limonite) How... disgusting.
>They could easily be the remains of some pyroclastic beast that Carnelian left abandoned to its fate, but they’re not. Sapphire explains to Limonite, directing her gaze toward the ceiling. Only one drop—one single drop of human condensation—has fallen in the last 30 minutes. If she were to create a human, or even make an outfit, she’d have to wait years to complete even a single piece. Sapphire doesn’t seem to be an expert tailor, given how simple her clothes are. Fortunately for you, between the simple outfit she gave you and the one you brought with you from the Upper Crust, you’re either the second best-dressed one here, or the first. Limonite doesn’t wear clothes—her clay skin extracts silica and shapes it, so she might not even count. Swirling the debris on the floor with her foot, Limonite steps away from your vomit and stops in front of you. She raises her index finger and points it melodiously at her own face in confession. She comments while clapping out your names.
(Limonite) Fine… Sapphire and Sapphire. Hmph. I thought that upon falling here I’d find gems of all colors and names, but it’s good to know you’ve adopted the refinement of Clay, even if unknowingly. In my lands there are Limonites and Limonites, and Argillites and Argillites and Argillites and Argillites and Argillites. More than I could name in twelve lives. (...) …
(Sapphire) You’re in the Crust. In the deepest layer of the Crust, Crust 0. This level is practically invisible to Peridotite. If there’s one thing she can’t control, it’s the lower mantle, and beneath it, the Earth’s core. I got here through acts of rebellion, and Sapphire—well, she did too, somehow… that’s what I can assume. You didn’t mean to end up in a discontinuity, did you?
(Limonite) It doesn't happen often, but sometimes Claylite fails her mission. After entering the earth, she was supposed to mark with clay a gem from which a new one could emerge. The criteria were simple—it had to be an inclusion-being with direct, simple contact with Peridotite or Fluorite. And that one was…? Look at your face, I feel so sorry for you. Really—
>Sensing your discomfort, Sapphire finally explained—something she hadn't done with you before. She summarized their location as being outside Peridotite's control group. She was vague about her own motives and yours for being here, but you could sense it: from the beginning, she'd been reluctant to offer you any solution beyond repair. The Crust is only the surface layer of the earth; if Peridotite truly controlled all solids, then there was a limit to liquefaction and malleability regarding the discontinuities separating the planet's core and mantle. With that clear—or not—Limonite explained her presence. Actually, Hawk's Eye was very right about your cleaning; Claylite didn't choose you just because of your position—she probably would've done the same even if Imperial Topaz had been the designated one. Looking at you with pity, she pointed at your face and apologized. You wouldn't have the fortune of becoming a mother just yet. Returning to her enthusiasm, Limonite ordered the Sapphire near you.
(Limonite) Zombie courtesan, expel me! Suck me upwards with one of your courtesan abilities. You're the one who's been here the longest, right? Stop taking your half-assed vacation.
(Sapphire) There's no way out of here, by any means…
(Limonite) Hmm. Ho— Hahaha! Ohohohohoho! How funny you are, zombie courtesan black sapphire! From what your rare-earth courtesan sister said, I thought you couldn't entertain me with comedy, but I was wrong. So then, how do you get out of here?
(Sapphire) …
>With such a leathery physical body, movement on clay planets probably isn't done via capsules but through pipelines. You can't delve deeper into their culture of washings and expulsions. In response to Sapphire's firm yet lifeless refusal, Limonite begins to laugh. She covers her face with her hand, then her arm, intensifying her amusement. She asks for confirmation, but Sapphire simply ignores her. After calling her two strange names in succession, Limonite approaches you instead. She circles around you to reach the less damaged side of your face and whispers. She spoke up, asked for your advice, commented on strange things about her culture, and finally made several requests until she quickly lost her patience.
(Limonite) Psst. Hey, Zombie Courtesan 2, Sapphire, right? Your other self has a weird expression. I was expecting her to say, "Yes, it's a joke! I'm a little silly, bear with me! I'll take you to the Surface immediately!" Or something like that. Is this still part of her show of laughter, dance, and fun? Should I be laughing? Honestly, I don't understand Crust culture. Why don't you regenerate? Do you enjoy being destroyed? Does it give you pleasure? Things that give me pleasure are: subjugating civilizations, Claylite, getting out of here. It's a long list, but the third one's the most important. Last becomes first, right? Just tell me how to get out of here already! P-please? Don't make me kidnap you!

>>2386
(Purple Topaz) …
>After a brief silence, Purple approached your position, breaking into Fluorite's line of sight. Your mineral was detached in certain areas due to the impact and pressure Fluorite had recently exerted, not with her insignificant strength, but her actions. The broken mineral included some of your fingers. Purple Topaz picked them up, gently, from below, as if a small animal were making its way through them. Such was her fondness for them that sometimes, even Purple Topaz's smallest gestures mimicked them. Fluttering between your fingers with hers touching so briefly they seemed like insect wings, and then, claiming she was holding your hands with the pressure of a mammal trying to protect its food. You received no immediate response to her mention. Looking at her face, you would find a light, calm smile. Even she, as insecure as you know her to be in her true form, could project such confidence. But it was not strange, she had been spreading it for centuries, and now a true one. Purple unexpectedly released your hands and waved them away from Fluorite's gaze, with a new look. She stopped standing and touched her chin, thinking, after the brief surprise.
(Purple Topaz) Humans are very scary. It's a peculiar feeling, between fear and discomfort. Fluorite, you made Taaffeite feel something similar. It's like... The uncanny valley! When a curious gem asked the androids why they looked the way they did, they used that term. I was very confused. Between the Unitary Swamp, the Soft Forest, and the Initial Accidents, an Uncanny Valley doesn't seem out of place, does it? As a leader, no, as a gem who awoke a long time ago, I wanted to visit it. I never thought I would abandon the desire to know more someday. And now, having learned how much a human can truly hide... I'm almost trembling, look at me.
(Fluorite) Don't try to beat around the bush, Topaz. Taaffeite was very clear. You detest me too, don't you?
>She recounted a term she learned through android information exchange. When she showed her hands, they truly looked as she said. As if she had perfectly ignored the firmness that you noticed with a single gesture. Fluorite did not pay prolonged attention to the leader. In her state, so immersed in her own sin, listening to Purple Topaz was like being completely distracted in the middle of a fight. As a specialist in that very thing, Purple caused it to Fluorite, she lost that strange look. With a dull expression, she asked Topaz for a true opinion, synthesized from the words she learned from you. Topaz did not respond, only showed her palms in an immediate reaction. Fluorite took this as a turning point to expose herself again. Incredibly, she supported your plans for her, and the implications they would have.
(Fluorite) This is not the first time I've had this conversation... When Sapphire saw me like this, when I expressed the same thing to her, she made a decision very similar to Taaffeite's. Even I think that kind of isolation is for the best. No matter how hard it is for me, or for Axinite. She might spend years wondering why her sisters treat her cruelly, or why she unfairly has to pay for what a human like me did. However, in terms of the risk, and the harm they can avoid from my part, it is infinitely better. Topaz, you don't have to deceive me, nor console me, nor forgive me, just tell me the truth.
(Purple Topaz) It's true. I wish I had Sapphire's subtlety to treat you kindly. But I fear it's impossible for me to match her. Even though you've lived with us gem twins for thousands and thousands of years, you still despise us and insult us this way. You even managed to upset a gem with a heart as big as Taaffeite's. I doubt anyone could refrain from judging you with hatred.

>Axinite's Fluorite—that gem who is a close friend of Anthophyllite, Esphene, who plays with androids in her free time, who's always the first to volunteer as a teacher for young gems, and who helps Andalusite willingly—is, essentially, not evil. The human standing before your eyes injects different intentions into that gem, and Axinite as well, even if she isn't aware of it. Aware of that danger, Fluorite chooses to sacrifice herself and her fusion. Responding afterward, Purple Topaz lowered her arms. Hiding her gaze beneath her oceanic veil, she declared it—something you can only translate as a guilty way of expressing her indignation. Mentioning you in a particularly dissonant example, Purple Topaz pointed at Fluorite exactly as she wanted her to. But, casting off that very veil, Purple Topaz looked anxious.

(Purple Topaz) However, for me, it's different… I… I understand you, Fluorite. Sally… Not as a leader, but as someone who also once felt human.

>Placing her palm over the center of her chest, Purple Topaz labeled herself. It's not a word you're unfamiliar with—even 600, 800 years ago, you could hear it whispered among elder gems. Kunzite, Almandine—you never heard them say it directly, but for some reason, whenever Purple associated it, it evoked their image. Lowering her arms into tense fists, not because of Fluorite, but because of her own words, Purple continued.

(Purple Topaz) I can't hate you completely. I can't blame you, when I've also felt as hopeless as you do. I understand it.

(Fluorite) It's false.

(Purple Topaz) I also thought it would be best if I were shattered into pieces and buried somewhere! I also thought living was a cycle of torture I deserved. I imagined it would be too kind just to disappear. Don't you understand? What you said is true—I'm more than useless. The reason I insist so much on sacrificing myself is because I want to die.

>Fluorite turned her face away, and Topaz stepped forward again, calling her attention with deep intent. As if everything Fluorite had just said suddenly came true, Purple Topaz revealed such a degree of weakness that the other couldn't possibly look away. After exposing her inner desire, Purple Topaz took a brief pause. It wasn't very long, but it felt like one. As she released the tension in her body, adjusted her eyelids and her gaze, you could only feel Purple Topaz as strange. She spoke again, with a much more neutral sorrow than before. Repeating the story you know, details you don't, and finally returning to the initial apologies she begged for with such desperation upon seeing Andalusite destroyed. Fluorite remained silent.

(Purple Topaz) Though it may be hard to believe, this isn't a new idea. It was my fault that my partner Zircon was destroyed and that I don't remember her. Long ago, the daze revealed what I truly am—just a fool, a discarded gem grasping at any chance to give up. Rutile, I don't expect you to forgive me. Can you believe I was drawn to our enemy simply because she resembled you? Even after I was reconstructed, I made decisions that led us to the worst possible outcome.

>>2397
(Topaz Purple) You knew, didn't you? I never had the courage to confront you. I didn't listen to Heliodor; I couldn't bring myself to see you as an enemy. I couldn't allow the possibility that I might understand you.
(Fluorite) …
(Topaz Purple) I already hate myself too much to direct my hatred toward you as well. It's the same for you, isn't it? You can't fully love or hate what you've become now. It's impossible to destroy humanity, your own humanity, because you can't comprehend yourself. And even the things you wanted to protect—like us, the gems, this place—you can't decide whether you live on our side or if you're just exploiting us.
>Topaz took advantage of Fluorite's silence to reassert her perspective. She questioned and assumed quickly, speaking as if she could also see inside others' minds. She observed Fluorite, lost in her gaze of self- and non-self-destruction. After saying all that, with Fluorite neither interrupting nor immediately denying it, Topaz Purple sat back down. She stopped confronting Fluorite directly, and with a sidelong comment, she slightly smiled again—though her smile was unusual given everything she'd just said. She closed her eyes, as if imagining something in the air that she could touch with her hands and yet not. Fluorite's silence once more became the trigger for Topaz Purple to press her with that unusual confidence in being right. With the same confidence she'd only shown to you at first, she began to recount.
(Topaz Purple) Even after all that, there's still something you love unconditionally. Isn't that right? It's not clear, and it can't be perfectly described with words either.
(Fluorite) …
(Topaz Purple) There is, right! I'm not wrong.
(Fluorite) …
(Topaz Purple) In my case, I felt several instances of that love in the past, together with Taaffeite. I felt it when, still dazed, I cared for small animals that Tourmaline might appreciate. Or when I saw a gem as lovely yet so different as Uranophane freely express and relate to others, because others trusted me. And 600 years ago…
(...) Not an ellipsis! I'll resume the end of the conversation next turn
>Normally, news of a broken gem is reported directly to the gem in charge of medical affairs—Andalusite. But since the broken gem was Andalusite herself, this caused a minor systemic error, bringing Amethyst to the scene instead of Beryl, who had been tending to combat gems. Thanks to the experience you gained repairing other gems' damages, Ruby, along with Topaz Purple, cleaning the repair room wasn't a problem. Before you lay all of Andalusite's fragments, while Amethyst adjusted her gloves carefully to avoid breaking them, despite the mere 0.5 difference in hardness. Topaz Purple didn't look relieved, happy, or euphoric—in fact, she appeared deeply worried and bewildered. Continuously exclaiming around a gem-sized mineral box that now contained only small orange pieces, Purple tried poorly to hide her distress.
(Topaz Purple) What!? No way. I left it right here! Even her tiniest fragments are gone… I didn't—I must've imagined it all, right?
(Amethyst) My master suffered such a terrible accident while doing her duty. I can only think this is part of some awful fantasy... My recently acquired imagination is playing so many tricks on me.
(Purple Topaz) Yes. Her. She'll tell all of us how terrible it is to repair others without care. The dangers of the chisel. She might even write a book.
>For now the official story is an accident, and clearly what happened with Imperial Topaz was an accident. Amethyst is easy to convince, far too easy actually, makes you think how foolish her interaction with Obsidian was when she tried to assign her work. With melancholy, she picked up each piece of Andalusite one by one and arranged them on a long platform. Purple took the chance to send you to investigate what happened with Imperial Topaz using hand signs. It was a practice they'd had for many centuries, but she'd never been in the position of having to name gems through signs before, so she struggled for a second. (...) After all the gems entered the Academy, the place was so full of them it seemed impossible that none had run into Imperial Topaz. Turned out it was merely improbable, because only as you tried to leave the medical area, you heard a sound coming from Andalusite's medical room, her main office, the one where she keeps plants that secretly dry up and die. A giant gem case stood beside the table, and behind it, on the same table, was Imperial Topaz, still faceted. When you approached to speak with her or capture her for being a defect of nature, you realized her gaze was slightly distant.
(Imperial Topaz) Taaffeite, you look so... so grown up. Sorry to ask, but... where are we? This is still the Crystal Earth, right? It's just that I don't understand... where did all these moons come from?
>Since Andalusite hates the sound of gems fighting and breaking, her windows are as high as those in the inactive gem area and the blue room. The light still shows a reduced image of the sky, so even though it's only late afternoon, Imperial could see through it the several celestial bodies Tara left in place after Rutile's disaster. She approached you with some confusion about this, but once the matter was clarified, her expression returned to calm. Occasionally carving her own gaze, as only a medical gem could do for herself, Imperial Topaz recounted her story. Her tale and its conclusion showed no extra curiosity about you or her companions; instead, she was only concerned about Andalusite—but not the Andalusite Amethyst repairs, rather the one defined by her absence. Gems shine brightly when shattered, but normally it's not noticeable due to how unpleasant it is to lose other gems—yet right now Imperial has that glow because of her condition.
(Imperial Topaz) Once I had a similar dream, in winter, while sleeping beside Green Diamond and Chrysocolla. One where I couldn't wake up until thousands of years later... And when I saw them all, they'd grown and changed so much. Leucozircon, Dioptase, Axinite, Anthophyllite, Heliodor 50 and 57. Sorry, you weren't in my dream. But Andalusite was, Andalusite... she didn't change at all. It was frustrating! No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't imagine her any different, and I immediately realized the dream wasn't real. (...) I could only see her shattered, but even in pieces, I noticed a much greater volume than she used to have. No wonder she was a medical gem. Tell me... she, who had so much potential to improve? Did she finally manage to repair Chrysoberyl? That Amethyst, she's her apprentice, right? She looks so innocent, even though she's bigger than me. She's strange. Everything is strange.

>The wall made of feldspathoid flow fractures into ten cut lines apiece, originating from the two pressure points you applied. Fragments fall to the floor, bounce, and scatter again. The damage isn't enough to break through the wall to the outside of the tunnels. Naturally, the interior chamber is constructed in such a way that even with hundreds of humans contracting in coordination, it cannot be pierced by any amount of force, great or small. But that isn't the point of contact—it's what lies behind it. The hundreds of humans remain identical, both in number and form. There was no deafening sound, nor lights combining in the air to form floral essences. Onyx, who had been observing your demonstration closely, points at you—first with skepticism unfamiliar to you, but then recounting experiences you're aware are indeed Onyx’s own.

(Onyx) Corundum, that's cheating! You're doing it wrong on purpose, so I’ll want to correct you and show you the right way. Maybe I’m still naive, but even I used to trick androids that way into obeying my orders. Besides, even if I wanted to leave here, I still… don’t understand many things. Like, why you want me to eliminate so many creatures, or why Peridotite flees the moment she gets near me. I haven’t been able to speak properly with her, not even when I was still with…

>As soon as Onyx showed her confusion, simultaneously, her voice and intensity began to fade. As if she had lost a crucial piece in the structure of her sentences. The way she appeared to your eyes was similar to how gems look when they suffer mental lapses due to losing parts of their bodies—you know this all too well. That is Onyx’s state, and the humans continuing to pass through the tunnel one by one, unfazed. But from Sillimanite’s side, you see something more than just a reaction to your words. She kept her arms clasped together, repeating her special call while you spoke. Then she stepped forward, denying with anxiety. She was decisive—more decisive than before—both in her words and in her demeanor, regarding Dumortierite. Sillimanite’s intention was to relieve all shades of guilt in your speech, as well as the proclaimed possibilities she mistook for lamentations. She stripped them away.
(Silvita) Sister... That's not true. The way you describe her, Dumortierite has done nothing but hurt you. How can you speak of her with affection, or love? She tried to destroy you multiple times, fueled a crisis and blamed it all on you. If you tried to stop her, then she refused to listen—she wouldn't even hear you out until the very end. She wasn't raised to protect anyone, or to accept your protection; instead, she sought to drag you down. It's not your fault... (...) I'm sorry too... I couldn't stay silent. If I hadn't spoken up, maybe you would've succeeded.

>The human environment you can see through the windows, and the one you remember from the Subcrust, is what shaped Dumortierite. It doesn't seem to sit well with Silvita to claim that a gem lacks the qualities necessary to be considered one, but despite the uncertainty in her voice, to Silvita, Dumortierite is. At some point, Silvita had taken hold of your shoulders from behind—you only realized it when she removed her hands. She's extremely light, especially when she doesn't mix alloy into her body. Onyx, for her part, could only watch them without understanding, blinking a couple of times throughout the conversation. Paying zero attention once you turned halfway around, she only drew notice at the end.

(Onyx) My sister is waiting for me on the surface. Carnelian—she said she only feels free when she's surrounded by snow. It might not seem like it, but there are some places up there with snow, even when it's not winter. Could you hurry up? I want to leave.

(Silvita) ...

>Finally mentioning her sister, you couldn't confirm whether Carnelian was actually waiting for Onyx, especially on the surface. Silvita didn't react immediately after hearing you. She raised her hands to her face and rubbed her eyes while you waited for her response. Onyx began pacing in place, though she continued keeping her gaze fixed on the humans and her mission. Her impatience, while clearly expressed, wasn't strongly evident in her movements. When Silvita finally cleared her head and pushed back the hair that had crept into the side of her vision, she pointed at you with a half-smile. Her gaze hadn't fully recovered yet, but at least she could recognize you—bright and disruptive, in terms of fulfilling Peridotite's request. Behind you now, you could hear Onyx actively straining—lifting her hands, sharpening her gaze, clenching her teeth, then releasing in peace—but showing no light or visible effect from the release.
(Silvita) You truly are incorrigible.
(Onice) Aaa, Haa! Mm… Ha!
(Silvita) You're not the type of gem to order others around, let alone take orders. But, even if you haven't been entirely true to yourself… I think it's fine. I also doubt that "release" is something you can achieve on your first try. She's a strange gem, but all in all, it seems you managed to motivate her. Look, she's already trying.
(Onice) But that thing over there is a screen. This isn't going to work… What can I do?
>With much less tension, Silvita felt much more confident describing you. She indicated and then accepted for herself. You were able to reassure her, if only indirectly. Thinking more rationally, she observed the situation from above, focusing on Onice, whom she urged you to watch. She, after holding up her extended arms, stopped and commented with disappointment. Through the screens, you could see hundreds of humans, blinking, but present after all. Onice withdrew her gaze from the humans and the tunnels, let it wander to the floor, finding her legs and then you again. Onice raised her hands over her head and pressed her hair back as she declared with her drained will. Silvita approached to speak with her.
(Onice) I give up. I will commit the crime of surrendering, that's a fact.
(Silvita) You don't have to force yourself to do it right away, Onice. My sister already taught you how it's done, right? From now on, you just need to train and eventually you'll succeed. You might release one tomorrow, and the next day, you might release two, or just one, again. We'll try again another time, tomorrow or whenever you're ready, okay? I… I assure you it won't be a task you'll have to complete eternally, or alone. Can you trust that?
(Onice) Anatase…
>Lowering herself to her height, Silvita began to speak to Onice, who had tried so hard that she saw her mission as lost. Silvita used gentle words and the methodology of effort with which gems grow using the sword. Showing understanding, she continued but received no response or confirmation from Onice. Behind them, you could see the screens with the humans suddenly go dark. Not necessarily because they had disappeared, but their order and cohesion were disappearing, turning into red humans. Onice blinked a couple of times, like you saw a couple of humans do, only she didn't blink into nothingness, but into a more bluish appearance. When Silvita tried to stroke Onice's head, when she held the touch for a second, Onice called out and Silvita had to pull her hand away. She was startled for a second, enough for her to gradually stand up again while asking.
(Silvita) (---) Onyx. There's a reason Peridotite calls you Fluorite, right? Did you learn that name from her? Does Peridotite want to take advantage of you? I... I almost got manipulated too.
(Onyx) …
(Silvita) You have to resist, just for a little while longer. If you're able to help us, then we'll help you too. You're indispensable to us—Carnelian, Sapphire, and me. (...) Can you hear me? Onyx?
(Onyx) You're a very heavy gem, Anatase.
>She kept calm and tried to find a connection with Onyx so she could at least get a word out of her. Silvita tries to be honest, clearly exposing Peridotite's methods—setting restrictive release conditions, imprisoning other gems through her own misguided will. She declares this even if it means exposing her own fragility. Yet Onyx, rather than even looking at her, presses her forehead with both hands, without regret, without showing signs of trembling or any other gesture. Onyx's wide-open eyes stare at something beyond her palms, something Silvita cannot see. Trying to approach once more, Silvita pleads again, hoping to stabilize the rescue process. This entire process—releasing and releasing in greater amounts each day—only reminds you of Dumortierite and her hectic agenda. Onyx lowered her hands, leaving behind prolonged silence. But as soon as Silvita spoke again, Onyx interrupted with seriousness and neutrality. Onyx touched Silvita's abdomen, her center of gravity, but only for a second—then immediately stepped back. With a gaze clearer and unlike any Onyx had ever given before, she began to explain.
(Onyx) There are gems with light inclusions, easy to manipulate. Then there are gems with heavier inclusions, which, when joined with lighter ones, distort their vision and actions. Leucosapphire's inclusions are heavy too, but not as heavy as yours, Anatase. You strain yourself greatly pretending it's not so. However…

>>2400
(Onyx) Right now, Anastasia, you wanted to condemn me to hundreds of years of slavery, didn't you? Yes, with such pretty words. You needed me to turn a deaf ear just like you do all the time. Despite how capable you are now. Maybe that's why… Seeing you makes me uncomfortable. Peridotite can feel the same, so it wouldn't be strange if she acts peculiarly around you.
>When Onyx looked at you, even in her strongest confusion, she used to close her eyes for a couple of millimeters. Whether because she's not used to seeing bright gems in her workspace, or as an unconscious habit after interacting so much with you and having to feign pity. You didn't notice that small gesture when she looked at you this time, and when she turned to Silvita, Onyx pointed at her with a face slightly pressed by disgust. That special sense she speaks of is not the sense of liberation or any other special ability that Hawk Eye or Carneline revealed to you before. After attributing it to Peridotite as well, Onyx continued. Silvita still couldn't comprehend the strange depth in Onyx's words, nor her intensified current behavior, different from what she could previously half-accept for not knowing her.
(Onyx) Inclusions, intentions, fall by their own weight. Inclusions, after all, were designed to organize under a unique gravity system. Humans, for example, though light in mass, have inclusions that weigh due to their hundreds of thousands of years of memories. When Mara was scanned, her soul was light, unlike Leah, who when she forced her replication, her hatred was so great it dragged her into this abyss. When gems are born, they acquire their own weight over the years, and if this is very great as well, they can reduce it at the cost of their vitality. It's a continuous centrifugation cycle, though not exempt from errors.
>Returning to explain a hidden karmic system within the inclusions, tied to androids' ability to absorb human souls or to liberation itself, Onyx elaborated. Onyx's appearance shifted for an instant—her mass expanded exponentially and her body began glowing sky blue. You saw the form of a gem you recognized, transparent and ethereal, but it vanished in a blink. From Silvita's expression, you could tell she had witnessed the same thing. Onyx mentioned information she shouldn't have known—like the name Peridotite uses during conquests, Leah Findlay—making it impossible to deny how much of Onyx had been exchanged in personality and knowledge. After summarizing, Onyx listed gems in various locations, gems that didn't necessarily impact the real Fluorite or her Academy.
(Onyx) There are very heavy gems on the surface, and also light gems in the Mantle. There are heavy and light gems on other planets who, through vehicles, alteration, or replication of their inclusions, can bypass the cycle. There are light gems trapped even deeper down. I'll gather them for you, okay? I can do it—because all inclusions are connected. A group of gems capable of freeing hundreds of humans in a single day—I can create them for you.
(Silvita) Wha—... N-no...
>Silvita had barely begun processing the information about inclusion gravitation when Onyx crouched down and effortlessly plunged her hands into the ground. The motion and sound resembled silica manipulation, but rather than merely reshaping the feldspathoid floor, she directly transformed the rock's crystalline structure. You could feel the temperature rising as she continued gathering more complex material from the magma constantly surrounding the Mantle. Forming torsos, limbs, and finally heads, Silvita began shaping multiple gems simultaneously. Precision wasn't necessary, as their inclusions expanded and adjusted, transferring data from the original gem they belonged to. You saw Onyx, raising a palm toward the ceiling, sketching part of the floral release pattern only to extinguish it immediately. Increasing her output from 3 to 4 and then 5, Onyx presented the first one whose face she had fully perfected—still asleep. After her shock, Silvita slammed her hand into the air, alerting Onyx.
(Onyx) Kunzite was my sister Carnelian's teacher; she'll return too... It'll be complicated, but maybe my sister could be happy for just an instant upon seeing Onyx. Do you have anyone in mind?
(Silvita) You— Fluorite prevented gems from being molded, even as statues... destroyed those who did it... You don't... You don't—! You can't just overlook so many years—! You can't just overlook us...
>Before taking another step forward, Silvita drew her hands back to her chest, slowly raising them to cover her mouth. Even despite such an abrupt and unpredictable action, she couldn't stop it, and Onyx knew why. The recovery of all the gems was something Silvita could only have dreamed of in her youth—plus dozens more. But something felt off as Onyx completed one gem after another. The way she detached them from the ground, the way she moved them—it was too rigid, as if they were made of compressed sand, sandstone instead of solid mineral. Onyx adjusted her gaze, as if returning to herself once more, referring to Dumortierite as a gem she used to frequent. She then began sifting through her memories, connecting the dots, and only in her current state was she finally able to reveal it.
(Onyx) Corundum, Dumortierite knew you wanted to reunite with a gem; she told me. You never had the subtlety to tell her who she was or what she was like, so she ended up assuming it was your teacher—how wrong she was, and I was too. Now I know her name is Uranocircite. You used to avoid her when you returned to the Academy, 600 years ago—was that the last time you saw her?
(Silvita) Why now...? And out of all of them...?
(Onyx) Are you happy, Anatase? I hope so. They won't take long to awaken. Though, unfortunately, they won't remain active for very long either.
>From the same volume, as you saw her, inside that machine that Cornalina mentioned lately, the black mineral from the ground turned yellowish-green and took shape. Silvita had no idea how to react, asking incoherently, her words reached Ónice who received her expectantly. But what Ónice said immediately completely changed the way you could see all these gems. One after another, just like Hawk Eye's estimation in case they ever wanted to reanimate a pulverized gem, there was no way to guarantee cohesion and the mass would break apart in just a few years. After revealing the real cost of bringing gems from so far away, hundreds of thousands of kilometers in space, Silvita couldn't help but break. With a half-hearted look, between the gems and Ónice, Silvita, she broke her face revealing strands of dark black dripping in alloy. Ónice took Silvita's hand at that moment, as if immediately contacting her inclusions to finally find from her. The shape and memory of a green and red gem that was also beginning to crystallize from simple rock. Ónice seemed happy with her feat, but Silvita, holding Ónice's hand back with her alloy, stopped her. Silvita took Ónice's neck with her right hand and with a third alloy arm and lifted her off the ground, cutting off the generation of Watermelon Tourmaline.
(Ónice) You've avoided thinking about her, but there aren't many gems that deep in the Crust, and she's especially light, so I could locate her.
(Silvita) No… Not like this-
(Ónice) Even though she was pulverized, she shines green and red, like Christmas! The winter season. What was her name?
(Silvita) Fluorite!
>Kunzite had already been perfected enough to require only a little light to get up, though not as ready due to her complexity, followed by Onix, completely separated from Cornalina, and after her, Kunzite, the one you still vaguely remembered. Towards the end of the line, slowly completing themselves were Uranocircite and Watermelon Tourmaline, who gathered material too slowly due to the pressure Silvita was exerting on Ónice's body. Observing the same thing as you, for an instant, how they continued to form, Silvita let molten iron flow onto her face and increased her grip. Desperately, she pleaded with Ónice so insistently that it was impossible for her to resonate her mineral and speak properly. As soon as Silvita realized the irreversibility of the matter, she broke again, peeling more of her exterior into red vapors and holding Ónice firmly.
(Silvita) Enough, enough!! Bring them back! Bring back Tourmaline! Bring them all back immediately!!
(Ónice) Ha-… Ana-... I don't… Their inclusions won't return… To the same place- You're hurting me…
(Silvita) …!

closed

her

eyes,

as

if

enchanted

by

a

blow

that

dulls

the

inclusions.

Fenecite's

outfit

is

very

accurate—

in

fact,

all

the

acting

choices

are.

Rutilo

was

very

considerate;

he

changed

for

the

better

after

feeling

your

sweet

words,

even

if

you

never

spoke

them,

and

she

made

the

costumes

long

before

festival

day.

You

could

fill

your

heart

just

by

the

majestic

way

Garnet

impersonates

Amethyst.

Amethyst

didn't

seem

to

have

anything

in

mind

beyond

combat,

similar

to

Alexandrite,

but

it's

the

opposite.

The

silence

Amethyst

had

assured

you

was

suddenly

interrupted

by

words

from

behind.

Spoken

by

a

Gem

you

know

all

too

well.

Her

appearance

was

new,

her

words

somewhat

crude,

but

by

the

end,

her

actions

revealed

she'd

blanked

out

for

a

few

minutes.

Putting

aside

a

brief

confusion—one

that

felt

very

real

from

her

perspective—Padparadscha

approaches

the

front

seats,

namely

Amethyst

Topaz

and

you,

identifying

you

as

the

fake

Taaffeite.

Almost

lifting

you

by

how

she

grabbed

a

head,

she

began

telling

Fenecite

the

true

formula

for

your

impersonation.

Amethyst

Topaz,

firmly

trapped,

commented.

(Padparadscha)

Fenecite…

Is

that

Fenecite?

No.

I

can't

allow

this

terrible

deception.

How

could

I

have

believed

it

for

a

second…?

My

Taaffeite

was

much

more

expressive

when

she

was

younger.

Try

moving

your

body

much

more!

Hit

without

reason,

run

and

stretch—

those

are

cuter,

and

correcter.

Isn't

that

right,

Taaffeite?

(Amethyst

Topaz)

Pads,

you

just

made

a

really

ugly

face.

You're

really

there,

right?

Don't

worry,

it'll

be

a

bit

confusing

at

first.

I

used

to

act

clumsy

for

a

while

after

waking

up.

And

I'm

Amethyst

Topaz.

(Padparadscha)

(...)

N-n-

I…

I'd

rather

retrain

you,

Taaffeite.

Let

me

retrain

you

again!

This

time

I'll

obey

Ruby

and

love

you

much

more.
>As soon as Padparadscha realized she wasn't holding you but Purple, she immediately let go. You could notice a certain discomfort on Pads' face that didn't quite match her actions or words, lasting for brief moments. Regarding this, Topaz Purple clarified how it felt to be dazed. It seemed amusing, until you observed how she constantly received scolding from the others, including Tanzanite, who took advantage of her position as a healthy gem to boast. Padparadscha raised a fist into the air and toward the center, eyeing it suspiciously until finally, after properly positioning you, she held your head to perform the same motion. It was a coincidence that the gem who usually takes care of Padparadscha also, for an instant, reached for your head—Alloclase watches with a hidden smile. But when it was time to stop, you didn't hear her voice, only a brief exchange of rapid movements between an alloy and Pads' gem. Glowing in golden yellow, it almost seemed as if you were facing a solar flare—except the fog blocked the sun, making that impossible. Using her extra alloy arms, Obsidian lowered seats until you were beside her and Grossular. Adjusting her limbs, she offered both solution and answers.
(Obsidiana) You can sit much more comfortably with us. This was Grossular's idea.
(Grossularia) Wh- Um- I figured you wouldn't want to hear so much noise. But it wasn't mandatory.
(Obsidiana) I'll dazzle both of you with my knowledge on performances. What Garnet just did is applying the rule of verses. According to theory, in theater plays, monologues cannot last longer than the joint stage time of a verse, an action segment, or a dialogue between two characters. Each act is organized into small sections, and those sections into keys. I wonder when the opera will begin?
>Gross looked away, trying not to make you uncomfortable after snatching you, ideally. Obsidian, on the other hand, despite having promised a "quiet environment," eventually grew tired of merely watching and preferred making her voice heard. Raising one of her slender alloy index fingers, she began to explain. Apparently, her way of observing the stage was less contemplative and more measured, technical. If she were a judge at the festival, they'd all be doomed due to her highly selective judgment—fortunately, her turn comes in five years. Eagerly watching for Garnet or Phenakite to sing in harmonies that could shatter a gem, Obsidian waited in anticipation. Grossular asked her a question, thus revealing the explicit content of a book that Dioptase or Axinite would easily place in the "non-usable" section, had they managed to restore it earlier.
(Grossularia) Where did you learn all that, Obsidian?
(Obsidian) Isn't it obvious? Her library is full of knowledge. I recommend the work "Vocal Techniques for Harmonizing with Crystal Gems" written by Hessonite. I stumbled upon it by accident, but it speaks very highly of how to captivate gems and control your voice without breaking them.
(Purple Topaz) Excuse me.
>While Obsidian was delighted with the useless information she found in the library, a shadow crossed her place. Purple Topaz took you by the hand, not without first waiting for Grossularia's approval as the intellectual author of the kidnapping. Naturally, there were no problems with the extraction, you only missed several seconds of your apprentices' performance, and when you returned to the place where you were first and last kidnapped, you found Alexandrite occupying Padparadscha's spot. After a very effusive greeting in which her palm almost touched your forehead, Alexandrite explained the same thing. But, due to her explosiveness, she didn't take long to touch your head a couple of times to ask jokingly, for which she earned a sharp tap on the forehead from Topaz's fingers.
(Alexandrite) Teacher! Alloclasa asked me to switch seats with Padparadscha so I wouldn't cause more interruptions, and I agreed. Now you can enjoy the play without any problems. I won't distract you. No, not at all. Unless you want me to distract you? (...) Ok, I'm sorry.
(Purple Topaz) …
("Purple Topaz") So, from now on, I will only sleep, for 212 years, remembering that time a grumpy old man kidnapped me to fulfill his population-washing fantasies. Will I ever escape this dream?
>Recapping and omitting some chapters from the original work, it seems that the producer, Dioptase, took on the enormous task of making the play entirely enjoyable, without dwelling on the tragedy of the cause but only on the effect. It was a relief, not for you because you could easily find the implications of Purple Topaz's dream, but for gems like Alexandrite who could safely kick a seat near yours from time to time to express her attention and retention. The play does not do justice to Avalok or Tara with the strange nicknames Purple gives them in her memory. During the intermission, Dioptase played her instruments again, but not on stage, but behind it, using Hortensia to transmit the sound. The point was not to stifle the act with her presence, but to focus solely on the apprentices. Purple Topaz relaxed in her seat, though with her arms crossed, commenting before the play returned after the short break. She took it upon herself to play again, with everything she didn't necessarily write in her memoirs. Despite her secrecy, she tried to offer you that information for the price of nothing.
(Purple Topaz) So you decided not to adapt much more from when she was still Mystic. That's a very prudent decision. I still have secrets I can't reveal to anyone, dark secrets and mischievous secrets. I can't reveal them, unless you ask me nicely.
(Taaffeite) That's right, the less hair the better. I'm thinking of borrowing Dioptase's glasses. After all, I'm angry with this world and its gems. I don't want to think about anything but rebuilding. Iridescent gem... I- how I hate black gems. If it weren't for my enemy, that wretched pyroclastic black one.
(Alexandrite) What a scandal! Were you really like that in the past, teacher? How embarrassing, my teacher. What would our fallen companions, a bit darker than usual, think.
>The second part of the play began in a peculiar way, with Phenakite having a completely renewed appearance, though somewhat exaggerated around a small habit that Purple Topaz referenced. It seems that in this part the author lost the poetic and mystical tone of the work, moving to a much cruder and exaggerated formula that impacted the audience a bit. Typical of Purple Topaz. The most affected by this was Alexandrite, who was immediately surprised when she learned all that about your past, technically true but false at the same level. She covered her mouth, with false pain after discovering your secret exposed in front of so many gems. Your company continued to be noisy, but with all that Phenakite and Garnet practiced behind your back and that you managed to observe by accident, you had already experienced this play at least twice, so a third and fourth, solely directed at you, was the next step to demonstrate if they were good at what they did or not. Alexandrite always shone with an invariable color when she showed herself happy towards you, the blue and red of her hair do not change. Purple Topaz, on the other hand, would like to regain some color in the face of such darkness from her recent mineral. Convinced that the name makes the color and not the other way around, she has expressed her desire to be called Lilac Topaz more than once. The play is ending.

(Topaz Purple) …
(Rose Spinel) Enemies approaching from the East! So many of them—dozens of pyroclasts. A—... A blockade pod just like the ones described for pyroclast gems. They're advancing through the channels, already consumed the flower field.
>Tara's fog dome wasn't perfect—every now and then its density wavered, allowing a glimpse of the outside world. In one such moment, you looked eastward and saw the imposing Academy beside the Soft Forest, though the latter was worn down by autumn, still and lifeless. It was hard to believe that behind the Academy, between the Accident Zone and the old flower field, an army could be approaching right now. Yet Rose Spinel's appearance told no lie. With chunks of her mineral chipped away and a sword melted into her hands, she could barely finish sentences without hesitating, overwhelmed by the weight of her own urgency. The sound of the festival faded, and you stopped hearing Alexandrite behind you altogether. Topaz Purple remained silent, watching Rose Spinel, yet simultaneously aware of the sheer number of gems currently outside. The possibility of pyroclast groups showing up at the fog festival was practically negligible—so much so that it felt almost fantastical, or else meticulously planned. From what Rose Spinel said, you realized it—the presence of that main vessel, piloted by a gem and its screens. Topaz Purple quickly deduced that, while they weren't here to exterminate them all, they at least intended to abduct a massive number of gems. She stood up and began issuing orders, like a true leader.
(Topaz Purple) Emeth. Contact all your siblings. Tell Hortensia to stop the show and get Uranophane, Phenakite, Garnet, and Dioptase to safety. Grossular and Obsidian will join them. Heliodor will protect Sphene, Rutile, and Anthophyllite; they'll return to the Academy along with Chrysoberyl and Ruby. Chrysoberyl is permitted to use her weapon for attack or defense. Padparadscha, Alloclase, and Tanzanite will follow them. Red Diamond and Green Diamond must ensure they evacuate properly. Then, let Black Spinel join Green and Red, and have them head east.
(Spinner Rose) Topaz.
(Topaz Purple) Alexandrite, Taaffeite, and I will guard Tara by surrounding the lake. There's a chance the enemy's goal is to dissipate her—Rem must secure a nearby water source for her. After completing their missions, Grossular, Obsidian, and Heliodor must regroup with us or with the Diamonds.
>She assessed the positions of most gems and secured escape routes, then organized a response team capable of fighting and identifying the threat. Regaining her composure, Spinel Rose—stripped of her usual demeanor—called out to Topaz Purple with a hint of disbelief, but Topaz continued. She named you, though you might have heard her or not. You'd lost sight of Alexandrite for a few seconds; she returned with a sword, placing it in your hands while, in the background, through the android speaker, you heard Dioptase's voice dispelling confusion and crisis. Alexandrite's expression wasn't as worried as the other two gems—instead, she only sought confirmation from you. Topaz Purple, even after giving orders, kept thinking about the best course of action.
(Dioptase) Everyone! The festival is over—stay calm! Y-yes, let me take that off, Phenakite…
(Alexandrite) Master Taaffeite, take this—hold your sword. I went for them as soon as I sensed danger. Ready? We're going to fight.
(Topaz Purple) The androids have no trace of Chrysocolla or Blue Diamond. They should return to the Academy upon hearing the bell. But if not… No, more importantly—the enemy can now cross wet areas. We can't rely on Tara to counter a large-scale invasion. Chrysoberyl, should she return?
>You could see Dioptase in the background tending to the complicated outfits worn by Phenakite and Garnet. Since some gems had been absent leading up to the Festival, Topaz couldn't help but voice her doubts. The dome of mist descended with a sharp, yet almost imperceptible sound. Gems can't produce whistles—they don't have enough internal air to do so, unless you were, for example, Black Spinel. Yet they know the word even before androids appeared on Crystal Earth, or intelligent pyroclasts. Reality includes the history of its discovery—certain gems, by playing with the internal gases of organic animals, accidentally generated whistles from them. All animals previously sacrificed, or by accident. Given that the sound of gem repair is also sharp, the noise becomes unsettling. Fortunately, the number of gems you knew who played with animals without caring for their integrity was rather small. Tara approached where the four of you were, following Alexandrite's trail; she was delayed because, in her denial of audiovisual reality, she thought the festival's cancellation was also part of the show. After calling Topaz for a long while, Spinel finally managed to get her attention, and provided information not solely concerning enemies or direct threats.
(Tara) How does the story end? Are this kind of works supposed to have an open ending? Oh, Taaffeite. What's going on? Everyone looks worried…
(Spinner Pink) It was Alloy, a massive amount of Alloy. P-Purple, Aquamarine, she suffered the same damage as me. I can't, I, I can't just stay here… Now… Purple!
(Topaz Purple) …Aquamarine is an excellent strategist, right? Maybe she's not the strongest of all, but her skill and intelligence are on another level. Do you really think she'd be defeated so easily? After sending you, Aquamarine got out of danger—she'll rejoin us soon. So come on.
>At her final call, Purple Topaz found herself obliged to attend Spinel immediately. It took her a couple of seconds to find the right sequence of words, but it was worth it given the effectiveness. Carelessly touching her cheeks due to their hardness, Purple Topaz made sure to both reconstruct Spinel's face and calm her down. Her last statement marked her descent with purpose, taking a different route from the evacuation of the other gems. Alexandrite had no trouble following her, but even she, with her quick judgment, couldn't predict the rapid formation on the ground of broken stones beside the lake. It must have lasted only a couple of seconds or slightly more—the movement of that tiny blotch that, upon reaching its destination, grew larger and consumed surrounding material to synthesize once more. An oval vehicle hovering over the inner shore of the lake opened up to reveal the outline of a gem. The Gem of the Crust descended from the transport block, and although you couldn't yet explain her presence or how she could have emerged from such a small blotch, she alone stopped halfway down the automatic steps upon seeing them. She didn't continue her speech, but instead became absorbed in the appearance of them all.
(Rutile) It's been so long and I— Oh, wow... So big... If only this body could grow like yours, I've lost so much time. I feel intense envy, but I can't allow myself to stand mesmerized, not even for a second. (...) You first, Tara.
>You recognized her color and mineral; you couldn't overlook it after seeing it day after day in the Rutile currently protecting you. Her presence seemed strange, but more than that—impossible—given what her last encounter should have been. Her body wasn't as large as it was 600 years ago; on the contrary, she seemed to have even reduced in height. The inside of her clothing, her arms and hands, occasionally glowed faintly with the metallic shine of an alloy. Extending her right palm toward Tara, she immediately sent forth a swift line of heavy metal growth, attempting to break through her condensed form. Still without any support from the army Spinel reported, the pyroclastic gem appeared ready to attack the rest of you, following a certain order.

<Stats
Taaffeita
HP: 1720 (1209)
Force 16

Alexandrita
HP: 1755
Force 14
14d100 = 770

Purple Topaz
HP: 1644
Force 13
13d100 = 611

Pink Spinel
HP: 760/1720
Force 13
13d100 = 587

Tara
HP: - Force: -

Rutile
HP: 2490 (1490) ((1543)) [2490]
Force 10
Alloy (In Use)
Subdivision (In Use)
10d100 = 581

From now on I will count the extra gem pieces as extra life, the 1209 is for Bort and Yellow Diamond

>>2404
I forgot a die 10d5 = 27

>>2386
>I'm not sure if it was his name or someone else, correct me and pretend it's saying the correct one
Yes, it is. (>>108024)

>>2392
>If you had a backup on drive or the cloud, you would never lose important things forever.
I took a bit too long (way too long) looking for pics just now, so I'm cursing my past self for not doing that.

>I posted a Christmas image of Leucozafiro that I forgot to use last year and the one before that since I don't think I'll have the opportunity to use it this or next year if not.
Merry Christmas!

>>2393
>Are you sure the link you passed is from the same song? The translated lyrics don't match any single stanza.
Yes. It's the left column that counts, if it has any relation, if you do line by line. And it's an interpretation! It's not like I let the AI translate everything by itself, no

I'm in high discontent with my January delay, I'll change my way of writing the turns for the next one

>>2397

>Taaffeite stayed still, waiting with a faint smile for Purple Topaz to give her response
>This wasn't the time for such games, but in a way it inspired confidence in her
>Knowing that even in this situation she can still be so "herself" is comforting
>Her touch makes her feel safe and tells her there's no reason to worry
>Purple Topaz will make the right decision—there's no doubt about it

¡¡-!!

>Taaffeite had already expressed everything she felt; there was no reason to get further involved in this conversation
>Attentive, she listened in silence, approving every single word spoken by Purple Topaz
>At first that was the case, but when the moment came, her expression shifted from calm to one of complete disapproval
>"Human"—more than one gem had expressed feeling that way in the past
>Until now, nobody truly knew anything about them, what they actually looked like, or what they were capable of
>Out of her own unfamiliarity with the term, Taaffeite had limited herself to simply ignoring such statements
>However, Purple Topaz has seen and heard the same things she has
>Then... why?

...

>Her fingers clenched tightly into the palms of her hands
>Scraping and scattering her material as the pressure in her fists increased
>Just a moment ago, Purple Topaz had appeared as a model leader
>Reaching the correct conclusion while also making sure to calm the others
>Then... why? Why was she now showing empathy toward Sally?
>Why did Taaffeite again feel that bitter sensation of silica building up in her trachea?
>Why? Why? Why was Purple Topaz acting like this?

Purple Topaz! You...!

>She shot upright, her face angry, fists clenched
>She was upset with Purple Topaz for showing this kind of weakness
>She felt betrayed, knowing she harbored desires like these
to

hear

her

compare

herself

to

someone

like

Sally

>She

was

ready

to

spit

out

the

entire

lump

of

resentment

clinging

to

her

throat

>But

as

she

looked

at

Amethyst

Topaz,

something

happened

>Her

gaze

calmed,

her

anger

subsided,

and

the

ball

of

silica

dispersed

You're... truly a good gem. (...) The guilt over failing to save someone, slowly self-destructing for lacking the courage to end it all... I'd be lying if I said I've never felt that way, but I don't think any of that makes you human—neither you nor me. I know you're searching for common ground with Sally, and... I think that's somewhat noble of you. However, what we feel and what she feels are completely different things. Ours is a purely altruistic reaction, one that makes us want to suffer for the sake of others.

>She closed her eyes, placed a hand on her chest, and released all those negative feelings with a faint exhale

>Once the mist dissolved, Taaffeite stepped toward Amethyst Topaz, placed a hand on her back, and hugged her briefly

>She got so caught up in the image she projected as a leader that for a moment she forgot Amethyst Topaz was just another gem

>She too has flaws and insecurities, just as Taaffeite does, who has experienced much of what Amethyst Topaz has described

>Pushing beyond limits, ignoring exhaustion and missing parts

>Mutilating herself physically and mentally due to the helplessness caused by her own failures

>Taaffeite knows all of that all too well, and that's why she refuses to acknowledge any of these feelings as human

>These emotions, this sorrow, this so destructive love she feels—it doesn't belong to a being like Sally

Sally... you're not like that. You've lived hundreds of thousands of years with the sole selfish desire to continue your existence. You disgust me, you irritate me, and though I try to hide it, you terrify me. (...) Despite all that, I can't say I hate you.
>With a cutting gaze, she turned to Sally, her eyes firmly fixed as she spoke
>Nothing Sally has done was for altruistic reasons
>The academy, the rise of the gems, her own role as leader
>All of that was carried out by her selfish desire to persist and rule
>It is impossible for Taaffeita to see a being like Sally and not be disgusted
>She has felt this way since the very first moment she learned about humanity and their constant wars
>Even then, it bothered her to know that her existence was a product of these and she sought to distance herself from them as much as possible
>Having not only a human, but the one responsible for all the problems they have had to go through in front of her, it is difficult not to feel fear
>She may not tremble like Purple Topaz, but she is incapable of not becoming internally agitated
>Her hands, still broken, try to stay as close to her sword as possible
>Sally is just there... Sitting, talking, with those simple actions she is more than capable of making Taaffeita nervous
>She cannot help but feel in danger, even though she knows she could crush her with one hand
>All those strong emotions should lead to hatred, but they do not

Do not misunderstand me, my lack of hatred does not stem from a desire to understand you as is the case with Topur. I think your humanity and longevity make you a being completely alien to us. You may have built the academy, you may have lived with us, but you were never really there. You are like a... A natural phenomenon! Earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis, tornadoes, I've heard Tara talk about them. Apparently, people in the past also got upset when these happened, they feared the consequences and sought a way to avoid them. However, despite the destruction they would cause, despite the lives they took, people were unable to hate them. It was just something that happened and the only thing that could be done in those cases was to prepare for the next one. For me, you are that now, a threat for which we must be prepared.

>Yes, she does not hate Sally, she already grudgingly admitted to being grateful to her
>But not hating and accepting or even tolerating all the harm she has done are completely different things
>Nor does she intend to judge Purple Topaz for trying to understand Sally
>In a way, she finds it incredible to see that she has such a big heart to try
>However, Taaffeita firmly believes that Sally has no right to believe that there is redemption for her actions
>As she said before, she is no longer part of this academy
>Her betrayal is such that Taaffeita refuses to see her as a gem, even seeing her as human becomes difficult
>Calling her a natural disaster is appropriate given the large number of lives she took, both human and gem
>The island they live on does not have many disasters, but Tara has spoken enough for Taaffeita to know them
>She knows how much people suffered from them, she knows when they tried to avoid them and she knows that when the time came they were able to quell them
>It may take time, but Taaffeita is convinced that when the time comes, they will achieve the same with Sally

We are not in a trial and you are not even worthy of condemnation, but Purple Topaz has asked you a question. So answer, Sally!

>After clarifying her opinion on Sally once more, Taaffeita waited
>She waited for a response that was long overdue
>Seconds passed filled with silence and tension
>It was ridiculous, waiting so long for her to speak was ridiculous
>They had already agreed that Sally was their prisoner, making this an interrogation
>With a firm voice, Taaffeita demanded that she give them her answer at once

>After finishing the conversation with Sally, it was necessary to clean up all the previous mess
>Leaving Taaffeite exhausted both physically and mentally
>With no will to think or do anything, she collapsed into a chair as soon as Amethyst arrived
>Her empty gaze drifted across the ceiling stains while she reflected on what had happened
>This must undoubtedly be the most stressful day of her entire life
>Not wanting to consider whether there could be a worse one, she shook her head and observed Amethyst's work
>It almost seems like just yesterday she arrived, and now she's skilled enough to even repair Andalusite
>She must have studied hard to reach such a level in such a short time

...I'll be back in a moment, let me know if anything happens.

>A small, discontented grimace formed on her face as she saw Purple Topaz gesturing at her
>Although she understood what was said, she pretended not to for a few seconds
>Not out of annoyance or anything like that—it's simply that she didn't want to get up so soon
>She rolled her eyes, passed a hand over her forehead, and reluctantly left her seat
>As she stood up, she blinked a few times to erase any trace of fatigue from her face
>Having done that, she excused herself from the others and gave Purple Topaz a knowing look before leaving
>No matter how exhausted she may be, she intends to keep helping her whenever needed

...

>Walking through the empty hallways of the academy, Taaffeite carefully observed every corner
>Something that didn't last long, as she soon heard a noise indicating where she should go
>She walked on and shortly after encountered Imperial Topaz
>Not with her scattered remains, as she had been left
>But with her, partially reconstructed once again
>It's the second time she's seen her like this, yet she still can't help but fall silent upon seeing her

Imperial... Topaz... Now that I think about it, I don't think I ever gave you a nickname, did I? Although I vaguely remember calling you Cio a long time ago... Ugh, it's hard to remember things from that era. Anyway, I need a new one—does Ciori sound okay? Sorry, I'm not in the mood to think of something better.

>After the initial shock passed, Taaffeite approached the nearest cabinet and pushed it to block the door
>It would be bad if another gem suddenly walked in and saw this
>Besides, this way she could allow herself a brief rest while continuing her work
>Taaffeite is far from seeing Imperial Topaz as a flaw of nature
>For her, there's no better news than a recovered gem comrade
>So even under these circumstances, she's clearly happy to talk with Imperial Topaz
>Something evident from her calm demeanor as she sat down and interacted with her
Yes... several things have happened... The crust attack turned out worse than you can imagine... (...) Including you, we lost half the gems from back then... (...) If it weren't for Andalucite's efforts, I'd also be among those numbers... (...) Because of that, the academy went through several changes that wouldn't have been possible without Antophyllite... (...) The satellites you see are Tara's doing, she... (...) Amethyst is a foreign gem, you see, thanks to... (...) Chrysoberyl woke up around the time... I won't go into details about why, but Purple Topaz is the leader now. Don't worry, she's doing better than you'd think.

>After finishing the greetings, Taaffeita's expression fell into one of defeat
>She doesn't know how long it will take for Imperial Topaz to shatter again
>According to Sally, it could be minutes, or it might take years...
>Either way, she deserves to know everything that happened
>Taaffeita tries not to skimp on details in her explanation
>But at the same time, she attempts to be as brief as possible
>The names of each fallen or lost gem, the reason behind her changed appearance
>All the changes the academy has undergone thanks to Tara, Antophyllite, and the others
>The inclusion of foreign gems into their ranks, Chrysoberyl's awakening
>Each time, she's willing to elaborate further if Imperial Topaz desires
>However, throughout the entire account, she completely omits Fluorite and her actions
>She didn't even bother mentioning her when revealing that Purple Topaz is the new leader

You don't have to apologize about your dream, Ciori. My self back then wasn't very sociable; you probably got a bad impression of me, heh, heh. As for Andalucite... The clarification comes a bit late, but yes. She's kept doing outstanding work, one you'd undoubtedly be proud of. (...) Ciori... you're a smart gem, and I know you're aware of your state. Tell me... what do you think will happen now? What do you think... I should do?

>She casually waved her hand to dismiss Imperial Topaz's apologies
>Only to be the one apologizing a second later for her distant attitude from so many centuries ago
>The conversation helped Taaffeita regain her spirits, allowing her to even laugh
>As well as share a brief smile when praising Andalucite
>But those spirits couldn't last long
>She closed her eyes, fell silent, and after a few seconds brought up the elephant in the room
>Truthfully, much of Taaffeita's conversation was driven by not knowing what to do with Imperial Topaz
>Should she take her to the other room? Help her recover? Wait for her to shatter?
>Taaffeita can't find an answer, so in desperation ends up consulting Imperial Topaz herself