Signal

"After all, the person who wrote this invitation clearly knows quite a bit about our factions; it's not impossible that the secret code was forged."

"...Then what should we do?"

"...Even if we don't know if it's true or false, the Nameless would never abandon any companion. The Astral Express will head to Penacony regardless, so there is no need to worry," Himeko said calmly.

"Mm, I understand, Sister Himeko..."

Suddenly, Xiao Xi seemed to think of something. "Oh, right! I just remembered, there's no need for us to sit here guessing blindly. I can just have my divine aspect ask Xipe, the Aeon of Harmony, directly."

"This method, while sounding utterly absurd at first, actually has some feasibility when you think about it... In any case, go ahead and try." Himeko was somewhat stunned by Xiao Xi's wild idea, but if it was feasible, it was worth a shot.

"Mm-hmm..."

In the distant reaches beyond endless dimensions—the domain of Xipe, the Aeon of Harmony.

"[Hope], why have you come here? Never mind, that is not important. What matters is, will you come and become part of my family?" A figure with three faces, seemingly composed of countless fragments, emerged as if millions of people were chanting a hymn in unison. It extended a warm invitation.

"No, I do not intend to become part of your family. The reason I have come here is to inquire about something..." [Hope] calmly rejected Xipe's request.

"You do not? Very well, then..." There was irrepressible disappointment in the voice of the Harmony. "You said you had something to inquire about?"

"Yes. Regarding Penacony, the land under your protection and favor—I wish to know its current state." The exchange between Aeons was straightforward.

"Penacony? I have indeed been keeping watch over that place. Hmm, I believe I know why you have come. [Fallen Paths shall gather here; it will become a battlefield for the Paths. 'You' follow the footprints of the Trailblaze to arrive here, the twins of Order shall raise the curtain on a grand prologue, and where the land of dreams ultimately leads shall be created by those within it.] How is that, [Hope]? Are you satisfied with the answer I have given?"

"...Although it is vague, it has provided important clues. Then, I thank you, Xipe."

"No need for thanks. If you truly wish to thank me, then become part of Xipe's family..." Xipe was as incredibly enthusiastic as ever.

"No, that will not be necessary..." After ending the conversation, [Hope] moved away from the territory of the Harmony at top speed.

Meanwhile, far away on the Luofu, Xiao Xi received the message from her divine aspect.

(Xiao Xi): Himeko, my divine aspect has replied. Penacony is deeply involved; someone is attempting to resurrect Tayzzyronth, the Aeon of Order. Based on the detailed explanation of dream construction you gave me, I also have reason to suspect that the Propagation is involved as well.

(Xiao Xi): Furthermore, the person who sent the invitation to lure us there is suspected to be related to the Trailblaze. In short, that is what Xipe told "me"... (Pom-Pom is angry). Honestly, I hate riddle-makers. Do all the big shots like to talk like that?

(Himeko): Don't be angry. At least we have a lead now. I will investigate the clues regarding the Nameless who sent the distress signal and any members of The Family who might be in contact with Tayzzyronth, the Aeon of Order. For now, just enjoy your vacation; Welt and I will handle the rest.

(Xiao Xi): Understood, Sister Himeko. You shouldn't worry too much either. If something truly unsolvable happens, I can just call "Xi" to come and help.

(Xiao Xi): Even if an Aeon descending with great fanfare into another Aeon's territory might cause some issues later, it's better than something actually going wrong.

(Himeko): Then thank you for your concern, Xiao Xi, but unless it is an absolute last resort, it is best not to use that method.