Story Reader / Main Story / 22 Renaissance du Fantastique / Story
Space scan complete... Based on the map layout, the final exhibition hall lies ahead of us.
The last...
As the gate swings open, they are immediately engulfed in an aura of solitude.
The floor beneath them is adorned with a resilient layer of white rock stratum, and as they gaze up at the dome above, a sprawling expanse of starry sky unfolds before their eyes. Amidst it all, an aqua-colored Earth hangs prominently in the center, captivating their sight.
This is the Moon...! But...
The starry sky above them is evidently a projection, created by a series of reflection panels. However, it appears to still be in the midst of calibration.
So, this is...
A proof of my halfway-abandoned endeavor.
A voice reverberates through the hall, laced with a touch of self-sarcasm.
The Hetero Tower sprang up just as I was preparing this exhibition hall. Once the crisis was resolved, I saw no reason to continue my work here any longer.
Stepping out from behind the curtain constructed of projection panels, a slender mechanoid makes his presence known and comes to a halt before them.
Greetings, Cervantes.
Facing one of the Church of Machina's founders, Haicma adheres to customary etiquette and respectfully doffs her hat as a gesture of homage.
...
It's a great honor to make your acquaintance, Ayla from the World Government Association of Art.
Our paths have finally crossed, Mr. "Seaweed Bob" Cervantes.
The eyes of the mechanoid and the Construct reflect one another.
Haicma, Spooner, I understand the purpose of your visit, but before we proceed, would you kindly grant us a moment?
Haicma acknowledges with a subtle nod, stepping back alongside Spooner, allowing them ample space for an undisturbed conversation.
In the wake of the Punishing Virus outbreak, rather than downsizing or vanishing, the World Government Association of Art gracefully evolved into an integral and enduring force within humanity.
Initially, my intention was to have only WGAA members visit here, but it appears that Allen is already steadfastly forging ahead on his quest to actualize his ideals.
Little did I expect such an intertwined history between you and Chairman Allen... Then, he should've already surmised that you were the one orchestrating the reconstruction of Constellia, and that was probably why he sent us on this mission.
He has surpassed me by a great margin. If our teachers were still vying against each other, I would've been a disappointment to Michele.
But even so, I still yearn for that "answer," no matter the method required to obtain it.
Through witnessing the rise and fall of human civilization, through fruitless attempts at imitation... or even through desperate pleas to others
I must uncover the missing piece that would allow me to fulfill my teacher's vision for him.
Mr. Michele Vasari... What was his ultimate pursuit? Witnessing the fulfillment of Constellia during the Golden Age?
The mechanoid lingers in silence for a fleeting moment, their palm gently brushing over a particular spot in their coat before finally letting it fall back down.
The city, in essence, was supposed to serve as a mere "formality." What my teacher genuinely sought after was a "lighthouse."
A lighthouse...?
A lighthouse capable of dissipating every trace of fog with its radiant light, liberating the perplexed from their state of bewilderment, and illuminating the path ahead for those who advance—a resolute beacon guiding humanity toward the future, toward "the next era."
Teacher had said this to me more than once—"The Golden Age is not the culmination of humanity; it is far from achieving the status of a perfect world."
Even with the eradication of large-scale wars, extreme poverty, and territorial conflicts, and even if economic prosperity has given rise to splendid trinkets of civilization, the underlying nature of the world will continue to be marred by ugliness.
For conflicts will persist, even in the absence of wars; hierarchies will emerge, even without poverty; and humans will invariably divide into factions, perpetuating an eternal cycle of rivalry and strife, regardless of the perception of territories.
Ensnared within the alluring illusion of a gleaming, golden sea, people find their forward progress hindered by invisible constraints.
Having now observed the entire situation surrounding Constellia, you should've already realized the very foundation upon which this so-called monument was constructed.
What you are saying now is the same thing as what Villier told you, isn't it?
After witnessing the harsh realities, that young man chose to escape, but my teacher always maintained faith in humanity, firmly believing that through the power of "art," humans could discover the path leading to a brighter future.
Just like the tricolor held in the hand of Liberty or the letter gripped by Jean-Paul Marat... Constellia will become the lighthouse, even if its birth is destined amidst the mire and turmoil.
But Michele was stripped of his decision-making authority during the initial stages of construction, and according to your memory, he passed away shortly thereafter.
In the end, the construction of Constellia was left incomplete. The internal records of the WGAA reveal that even the blueprint was lost during the Great Evacuation following the outbreak of the Punishing Virus.
If we only look at the outcome, then he "failed," didn't he?
Teacher did not fail, as he never would. He held steadfast belief in his own success until the very end of his life, leaving behind a contingency plan—a responsibility entrusted to me—to carry forth his legacy and fulfill his vision.
As Cervantes' words resonate, a fleeting glimpse of sorrow flickers in his eyes. He bows his head, his fists clenched, as though prepared to face the reprimand of an unseen presence.
He held the belief that I, as his "student," would be able to uncover the "answer" that resided within his heart and fulfill his unfinished dream... but I... I failed him.
The young man named Villier was correct. Mechanoids are creations rooted in rational logic, and this fundamental nature remains unaltered regardless of any external influences imposed upon them.
Despite exhausting every possible calculation within my capabilities, I failed to discover the "future" that Teacher had envisioned.
During that period, I bore witness to multiple instances of my fellow mechanoids succumbing to self-destruction, unable to resolve the internal conflicts within their logical frameworks. They, like me, were plagued by similar questions, and ultimately arrived at similar conclusions—
There is no future in this ravaged world.
...
That's why you decided to shift your focus back to "humanity"?
Indeed, because you humans have deviated from our conclusions every time.
While my attempts and imitations have proven futile, you have succeeded at all crucial junctures.
The Red Tide, the Ascendants, the Hetero-Creatures, the Hetero Tower... and perhaps there exist even more beyond my perception.
If you're curious about how humanity manages to turn the tide in tough situations, why not go and ask those who were right in the middle of it all? Though I have to admit, the WGAA didn't really have much of a role to play in those events.
Because you are all observers and witnesses to the unfolding events, just like me.
I need not specific examples but a general principle that can be summarized and applied universally.
This is similar to how humans study the art of the past to gain insight into ancient times—because artists serve as a captivating reflection of their era. In this regard, the WGAA should possess the most profound understanding of the "outcomes" achieved by humanity.
The "causes," as delineated by mechanoids, all fall short of achieving such "outcomes." On the other side, when a miracle transpires repeatedly, it can rightfully be acknowledged as a transformative "paradigm."
A paradigm... Do you think the whole setup and workings of this world can be unraveled like a theater play or a novel, taken apart piece by piece?
And do you believe that once you have mastered the art of storytelling, you can guide and shape everything toward the desired conclusion, much like the creator of a literary work?
A poet often crafts a poem by contemplating the desired ending first, while a painter holds a complete picture within their heart before even lifting the brush.
Humans and mechanoids operate in contrasting ways. Mechanoids deduce outcomes by uncovering and analyzing clues, whereas humans tend to take action only after they have a clear understanding of the intended outcome.
If reclaiming the Earth is not possible, any effort directed toward it will be meaningless. If the conclusions drawn by mechanoids hold true, the world as a whole should employ a method akin to Kowloong's Tabula Akasha.
But what exactly are the reasons that make you deviate from our conclusions and walk down different paths? And what is it that instills in you the belief that you can achieve success?
Every paradigm possesses its unique pattern. What mechanoids lack are the inherent "causes" that are exclusive to humans.
This is the answer I'm seeking. If I can uncover the principles that have helped humans navigate through desperate situations and obtain a universal equation capable of solving all problems, I will be able to replicate similar outcomes.
While it may not be as straightforward as a numerical sequence, with a clear sense of purpose and a defined path, I believe that one day, I will be capable of constructing a new Constellia and a world that aligns with the vision of my teacher.
As the mechanoid bares his innermost thoughts, his composed demeanor cannot conceal the underlying excitement that permeates his words. His gaze remains intensely locked onto Ayla, as if his long-yearned dream of many years could come true in the very next moment.
In response, Ayla's reaction is one of serene silence. She gently closes her eyes, her hand resting upon her chest, while a meaningful smile adorns her face.
...Remember the question you asked me in the M.I.N.D.?
What I'm trying to say is that maybe the storyteller already had the answer within them all along.
Little did he know that one day, humans would invent steel wings to soar through the skies, or that in the distant future, our eyes would behold the enigmatic landscapes beyond the sun.
But even with the knowledge that his fate would be to burn and meet his demise, Icarus still boldly embraced his desire to fly toward the sun.
...
I'm sorry, but I can't give you what you want.
From my perspective, the world is not simply a story or a painting. There's no ultimate narrative, flawless composition, or guaranteed formula for success. That's just how I see it.
At least, the "protagonist" in the story I want to tell would never choose to fight solely for the sake of "guaranteed victory."
But that doesn't make any sense. What would be the purpose of striving for a goal that can never be achieved?
It's confirmed that humans do possess an inherent quality that surpasses the predictions of mechanoids. Through decades of endeavors, I've verified this viewpoint, and my conclusion can't possibly be proven wrong.
I have deliberately placed formidable obstacles in every area of this museum, and time and again, you have admirably triumphed over adversaries that surpass your capabilities.
The very fact that you have encountered unforeseen challenges and now stand before me in this very moment serves as compelling evidence that proves me right.
Hmm... No way am I going to say that humans are a bunch of clueless idiots who fail to grasp that concept.
Well, there are "smart ones" among us who are outcome-oriented. However, when it comes to creating those so-called miracles, it's often the "fools" who dare to take action without overly dwelling on the potential consequences.
I must admit, I can't embody any of the determination, willpower, or strength possessed by those daring "fools." Hence, I can only offer you my personal perspective.
Even in my own eyes, the ideals I cling to may appear somewhat unrealistic, but nevertheless, I still choose to hold onto them.
To be honest, pursuing goals that are bound to fail may not make much sense to others.
Despite the inevitable outcome of failure that awaits, I'm resolute in continuing on this path.
I don't understand. Doesn't failure imply the complete negation of all the efforts and endeavors undertaken?
Even the most daring gambler would take a moment to evaluate the odds of winning before placing their final bet. If the probability of turning the tables is deemed to be zero, it is highly unlikely that they would choose to start the game.
The mechanoid exhibits no fear of "failure" itself. On the contrary, he continues to hold steadfast faith in what he has always believed, even to this day.
He believes in the possibility of his teacher's dream becoming a reality. He envisions himself as the instrument to bring that vision to fruition.
Should he fail, everything his teacher had devoted a lifetime to would be rendered futile.
His death would be stripped of all significance, granting ample opportunity for those who betrayed him—liars, profiteers, and opportunists—to mercilessly mock his legacy.
...Could this be Michele's true intention in leaving this windmill to the world?
The Don Quixote of this city didn't confuse the windmill for a giant; he actually charged at it, fully aware that it was just a windmill.
He knew he couldn't possibly defeat the windmill, and the chances of encountering an actual giant were slim to none. Nonetheless, he still aspired to be remembered as a knight.
Teacher's true intention... How could it be even possible...
He had always been so faithful, firmly believing in his triumph until the very end.
How could it be possible that he staked his entire life on an outcome destined for failure?
...I think I can understand how you feel.
I once had a dear friend who played a pivotal role in guiding me on my artistic journey, almost like a teacher to me.
She possessed the talent to secure any desired outcome through her abilities, yet she consciously chose not to take that path.
She willingly relinquished the bestowed "success" in order to embrace the opportunity to experience failure firsthand.
Initially, I couldn't comprehend her motives either, until I embarked on the path that truly resonated with my own aspirations.
By losing everything, she also gained everything.
I believe that even if given the opportunity to start anew, she... Selena would have made the same choice without hesitation.
...
I... cannot agree.
If what you say is true, then why did he leave me, a student of his, behind?
He must have held an unwavering belief in that answer, and that was why he entrusted me, a mechanoid, with the task of searching for it.
Well... that could also be true.
What exactly... are you trying to say?
I'm not claiming that my words are unquestionably right. I'm simply sharing my feelings with you.
With the passing of Michele, I have no way of ascertaining his true thoughts and intentions.
All I've learned is that he had discovered a vision that he was willing to dedicate his life to fighting for.
And only those who strive toward that vision will realize that their actions are nothing more than leaving some footprints upon the world.
Those footprints bear the names "self" and "life."
In life, everyone is granted just one chance, and no matter how challenging or convoluted the path may be, we must persist and keep moving forward at all times!
...
We think we are observing the world around us, but in truth, we are all merely looking at ourselves.
You'll never endure the agony of bodily pain or be confined by a short lifespan. Your soul can roam freely in this world.
You can journey farther than I ever did.
Everyone believes I've failed. They all deem my efforts futile. However, I know that I did not fail.
Because I found you.
I...
Bang!
In the distance, a dull explosion reverberates, its sound echoing through the air.
What happened?!
Spooner's senses immediately heighten, his gaze fixed on Cervantes, who maintains a rather composed demeanor, showing little signs of surprise.
...Has it started?
Is it Sica and the others? Did they run into the Kurono troop?!
Mr. Cervantes, is this part of your plan?
...No, I have nothing to do with Kurono's Constructs. I merely sought to utilize them to stir some mischief for this young lady and collect more compelling data.
Initially, when I took the so-called "test subject" they were searching for... it was purely out of my interest in human creations and my desire to validate a specific "possibility."
So when she came back here in that form, even I found it quite unbelievable.
Came back... here?
Warning—unauthorized intruders detected. Initiating cleansing program.
The projection panels in the exhibit hall suddenly begin to operate erratically, as the deafening sound of blaring alarms fills the air, enveloping them all in a disorienting cacophony.
Once is forgivable, twice can be tolerated, but three times?! Are they seriously recycling this cliche plot again?!
Even I'm starting to grow impatient, and I can only imagine how the audience must be feeling.
Mr. Cervantes, this is?
It's not me. Must be intruders breaking in from the outside.
I have no comment on your artistic mastery, but you sure are a lousy network engineer!
That's the expertise of "Magician", and I must admit I've only scratched the surface of what he has taught me...
Also, don't underestimate that "test subject."
It's a computing power monster. With the "back door" left from the first time, it can effortlessly manipulate the entire city's control system.
...?!
No time to dwell on that now. Haicma, Spooner, mind lending me a hand one more time?
I don't think we really have a choice, anyway.
Request confirmed. Collaborative combat mode activated!
