[This cinematic language, the satire is absolutely maxed out.]
[Pawnshops are just like that, what did you think? They're all merchants, who's going to take a loss?]
[So, none of you care whether Firefly's entropy loss syndrome can actually be cured?]
[Of course it can be cured. First, I don't believe every single person in Glamoth died out, not a single one left. Second, there's still the Genius Society. Third, the IPC should be able to treat it; maybe Jade just didn't want to make promises she couldn't keep.]
[In the future, if the Trailblazer unlocks the Path of Abundance, they should be able to save Firefly too.]
[How so?]
[Because with entropy loss, no challenge is too great for a star!]
[Entropy loss sounds like "worldly harmony," it's hilarious. A top-tier joke.]
[Shut up!]
— —
The camera focuses on Stelle's perspective.
After a series of bewildering human antics, she's finally had her fill of fun.
Now, she can only wait for the Harmony Festival to begin.
"Might as well wander around a bit."
Stelle arrives at a bar counter somewhere on the airship and notices projections of Boothill and Aventurine engaged in conversation.
Boothill: "Don't forget, I can love you to death with one shot anytime."
Aventurine spreads his hands, "That'd be my honor… Relax, I hate cheating at the gambling table more than anyone."
"Hmph… You'd better."
After some questioning from Stelle, the two don't shy away from spilling the truth.
Boothill is looking for Oswaldo Schneider, and the grudge between the Marketing Development Department and the Strategic Investment Department is known across the galaxy. One more friend means one more guarantee—and one less enemy. Why not?
After bidding farewell to the two, Stelle arrives at a new scene, one that will later unlock as a simulated universe area in Dreamflux Reef.
Stelle strokes her chin as she approaches Dr. Ratio.
Dr. Ratio raises an eyebrow, "Oh? I remember you. Your performance at Herta Space Station… barely passing. Hmph, no wonder that gambler thinks so highly of you."
[Holy crap, Stelle actually passed?]
[In Godfather's eyes, passing is probably a pretty high compliment.]
[Hell of a joke, I'm not even as good as Stelle!]
"Professor Ratio, please give me your autograph!"
"Don't try to pull clever tricks like that gambler. This time, I'll turn a blind eye, but don't expect it again.
The Harmony Festival is about to start, isn't it? It's a rare opportunity, so go. Only by balancing work and rest can you better absorb knowledge."
Stelle scratches her head, "I thought you'd tell me to focus."
"Hmph, asking such a question shows you haven't truly understood the purpose of learning. Balancing work and rest has scientific backing—refer to page 21 of issue 31,467 of the academic journal Stellar Grasp for the relevant arguments. Knowledge is acquired to live better, not to get things backward like those fools in the Intelligentsia Guild."
[Godfather lives up to being Godfather.]
[Godfather's value just keeps rising!]
[Godfather's educational philosophy is ahead of its time!]
— —
After tearfully parting ways with Dr. Ratio, Stelle runs into Topaz.
After some mutual business flattery, Topaz brings up a concept that's appeared multiple times in the plot.
The Ten Stonehearts!
After all, each member is exceptionally skilled and can gain enhanced abilities through their Cornerstones.
In the end, Topaz suggests that Stelle check out Jade's pawnshop.
…
Following the directions, Stelle slowly pushes open the door and sees an elegant woman already waiting.
"Hello, lively young lady. Welcome to 'Jade's Pawnshop.'" Jade gestures for Stelle to sit. "How should I address you?"
Stelle thinks for a moment, "My name is… Sunday."
[Hahaha, as expected.]
[Stelle is just too good, it feels like she never goes out of character.]
[Hahaha, why didn't she just call herself Galactic Baseballer?]
"Hmm…" Jade muses for a moment, "A fine name, just lacking a bit of merit."
"So, Miss Sunday—what do you want? And what are you willing to pay for it?"
Stelle clasps her hands tightly, "To resurrect Akivili!"
"Oh… that's your wish?" Jade doesn't even blink, "Sounds simple, easily achievable. Now, let's talk about the price."
"No way, is this the grand finale already?"
[This is absurdly abstract!]
[Are Stelle's humor cells just too advanced?]
— —
Jade consoles her, "Don't be too nervous. To fulfill this wish, what I need is simple: an animal's tail."
"Sounds easy."
"It's a creature that stands on two legs… with black fur, round head, long ears. Omnivorous, emotionally unstable. Most importantly, it's mastered human language and can speak. Bring me its tail as collateral, and your wish can be fulfilled."
[Hahahahaha.]
[Pom-Pom feels a chill down their spine.]
[Pom-Pom: Jade, Amenos!]
[Pom-Pom: Astral Express, crush her!]
[I'm dying laughing, looks like Jade's got a sense of humor too.]
— —
Stelle nods, realizing that "Lady Jade" isn't without a sense of humor.
She has to admit, Jade's use of dark humor surpasses her own.
But… hopefully, there's a pair of scissors on the train.
With that, Stelle takes her leave.
A few steps later, she's stopped by a familiar task.
"We meet again, my dear friend. You've walked the path of 'The Beauty' with even greater flair than I, and I sincerely salute you!"
Stelle looks at the red-haired knight in silver armor, "Wow, it's you, Argenti! So when do I unlock the new Path?"
A question mark appears above Argenti's head, "'Unlock'? Such a poetic and beautiful phrase, but you are already walking the Path of The Beauty.
I've heard of your heroic feat in leading others to defeat the ominous portent. Though the story sounds regrettable, you have undoubtedly upheld 'The Beauty' and justice. May Idrila smile upon you."
[I don't know why, but every time Argenti speaks, I want to laugh.]
[Yeah, he's so serious, but I just can't help it.]
[Hahaha, the moment I see Argenti, I know a punchline's coming.]
— —
Stelle finally arrives at the poolside, exhausted from playing and about to sit down when Firefly's voice rings out from behind.
"Hey, we meet again. I knew it was you. I didn't mistake you for someone else."
Stelle slowly turns around, "Who did you think I was?"
"You, yourself. I saw you opening treasure chests, popping balloons, and playing Dreamchaser's Match-Up. I didn't get it wrong… did I? There's still some time before the Harmony Festival starts. Wanna chat?"
The two walk and talk, stopping when the view opens up.
But the moment doesn't last long, as Firefly soon leaves—after all, the Hounds are chasing her again.
Stelle figures Firefly's skills should keep her out of serious trouble, and at that moment, the Harmony Festival officially begins.