Jarilo-VI, Outlying Snow Plains
Topaz walked alone across the snowy expanse, her companion, Numby, occasionally burrowing into the snowdrifts before rolling out again, clearly enjoying itself.
But Topaz wasn't here for sightseeing or a leisurely stroll.
Wearing headphones, her expression was serious.
As part of the [Strategic Investnt Departnt], she had chosen this quiet, secluded spot for a reason.
"Everyone, the recent popularity of Honkai: Star Rail has significantly impacted the company. I'm sure you've all noticed."
"First, capital flows have been diverted across multiple sectors. Then, Kafka of the Stellaron Hunters invaded a news studio just to endorse her in-ga counterpart..."
"How should we respond to these developnts?"
Silence.
No one dared to speak up, as if they had all collectively gone offline.
Even Topaz herself paused, as if waiting for an answer that wouldn't co.
"Ahem..."
Realizing the awkwardness, she softened her tone.
"This is an internal eting for the [Strategic Investnt Departnt]. No need to be so formal."
"I'm not looking for strategic commitnts—just honest opinions before the storm hits."
A few relieved sighs echoed through the call.
Then, a familiar voice chid in—Aventurine.
"How do I see it? While sipping fine wine, of course!"
"We're not like those old-tirs in the [Market Developnt Departnt]. Honkai: Star Rail's success is their headache, not ours."
"As long as we stick to our usual business, even a tidal wave won't drown us."
Topaz couldn't help but chuckle.
"Spoken like a true director, Aventurine."
"But I think your confidence is a bit misplaced in this climate."
"The ga's influence spans industries. Don't assu the [Market Developnt Departnt] is the only one affected."
"In fact, my debt-collection mission on Jarilo-VI was directly impacted by it..."
Soone imdiately asked, "Oh? How so? Care to share, Director Topaz? Might help the rest of us prepare."
But Topaz's voice grew quieter...
Until it vanished entirely from the call.
"Director Topaz? Topaz?!"
"She's never one to leave mid-eting without reason. Sothing must've happened."
"Everyone, check your vicinity—who's closest to her location?!"
Aventurine, who had just left Jarilo-VI: "..."
---
Topaz felt her eyelids grow heavy.
An irresistible drowsiness overtook her.
With a soft "thud," she collapsed into the snow.
Numby scurried over, sniffing to confirm she was still breathing.
Disappointed to find her rely asleep, it let out a small whine.
---
Dreamscape
Topaz blinked at the endless white void.
Pinching her cheek, she muttered, "Am I... dreaming?"
"Did I really fall asleep mid-call?"
"I haven't even been staying up late!"
"And this place... Hmm, feels oddly real?"
A voice echoed softly.
"I brought you here."
Before her stood a young man with long white hair and an otherworldly aura.
"You are...?"
"Yu Ling. Developer of Honkai: Star Rail."
Topaz's breath hitched.
Yu Ling gestured gracefully, and the scenery shifted into an elegant café.
They now sat in a private booth, steaming cups of coffee materializing before them.
"Apologies for the unconventional eting."
"N-Not at all!" Topaz stamred, quickly sitting down. "It's an honor!"
This man...
His presence alone is overwhelming!
Is he an Emanator? No...
A full-fledged Aeon?!
Or at least close to it!
She discreetly observed him, awestruck.
Even eting [Qlipoth] wasn't this intimidating...
Yu Ling smiled, fully aware of her ntal deductions.
[Aeon of Gas]?
Not a bad title. Might as well adopt it.
Once the mont settled, he spoke.
"I've observed your actions on Jarilo-VI."
"Thus, I intend to adapt your debt-collection mission into Honkai: Star Rail's next update."
Topaz froze.
"Wait—my routine debt mission?!"
Then it hit her.
Jarilo-VI—the planet Yu Ling himself favors!
No wonder Bronya was so adamant about keeping the IPC out!
She bet right!
As long as Jarilo-VI remains under Belobog's control, it holds value to him!
They've got not just [Preservation] but the [Aeon of Gas] backing them!
And unlike other Aeons, this one actively observes reality!
Thank the stars I made the right call!
Just as she ntally patted herself on the back—
Yu Ling dropped another bombshell.
"Additionally, I'll be adding [Topaz] as a limited 5-star character."
Topaz's mind blanked.
After a full minute of internal screaming, she managed a composed reply.
"But... I'm just an IPC employee. Wouldn't my inclusion be... inappropriate?"
She worried her corporate affiliation might clash with the ga's tone.
Playable characters were usually romanticized, larger-than-life figures—like the Astral Express Crew or Stellaron Hunters.
What made her special?
Yu Ling smirked.
"I understand. IPC employees never act without profit."
Topaz paled.
"N-No! I'd never dare demand paynt from you!"
"Being in Honkai: Star Rail as a playable character is an honor!"
"If anything, I should pay you a production fee!"
"Need anything? Just na it!"
"I'll even self-narrate my abilities like Kafka did!"
"Or—or let Numby take the spotlight!"
Yu Ling chuckled.
His objective was achieved.
"Good."
"Then I'll take my leave. Look forward to the update."
Topaz bowed deeply.
"O-Of course! I'll eagerly await that day!"
To be continued...
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