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Chapter Text

Aventurine’s mind was truly a mystery.

What could possibly push someone whose appearance was always neat and exuberant, who entered rooms like he owned them, who could make most people swoon with simply a teasing smile to offer his life at any second?

Ratio could not fathom it. In his eyes, all lives had worth, which was precisely why he wished to rid the world of ignorance. Even fools deserved to live.

And Aventurine was in no way a fool. 

Which is why Ratio was looking at the gambler across of him utterly dumbfounded. 

“Let me get this straight” Ratio dragged his words out, leaning towards Aventurine. “You’ve…barely made it out of Penacony only a few months ago… And you not only wish to embark on another perilous grand gamble, but you would like me to… accompany you?” 

Aventurine chuckled, fiddling with a golden chip.

“You look shocked doctor! But I assure you, this mission is not at all as grand as Penacony. It is a gamble- of course, but this time it’s a rather safe one.” Aventurine’s colourful eyes met Ratio’s. “And when I asked the IPC for  someone of high intellect to accompany me on this retrieval mission…they were so kind as to pair me with my dear doctor!” 

The gambler’s words were teasing as usual, but for some unknown reason, hearing the words “my dear doctor” in Aventurine’s playful tone made Ratio feel… frustratingly bothered.

He scoffed at Aventurine’s words, keeping a placid expression. So it was one of the IPC’s shenanigans after all. He would get an earful from his superiors if he refused to help a Stoneheart. What an awful waste of time… and a strange way to get Aventurine back in the ring. It was his first retrieval mission since Penacony. The doctor had many reasons to want to decline the offer.

For one, he was conducting a very important and time consuming research and dreaded having to push away his numerous tasks. The IPC couldn’t properly understand the importance of his schedule.

Additionally, the last thing he wished for was to watch Aventurine gamble his life away yet another time. Although he knew this cycle was inevitable, he wished the gambler could find another way to attain his goals. Ratio was never one to condone gambling, although the blond did have an incredible luck.  

“I cannot say that I am thrilled by the blatant disregard the IPC holds for my schedule. As a Stoneheart, pleasantries like these are your job, but I have many classes to teach and research to continue. I would appreciate it if you could ask for someone else to be paired with. Someone who perhaps has more time to waste than me.”

“Well don’t start writing me a refusal essay just yet Ratio, you haven’t even given me the time to explain the mission!” Aventurine laughed and leaned back in his leather chair.

His office was as luxurious as him, decorated in dark sage and gold. Ratio could tell Aventurine had put a lot of time crafting this space, but wether it was to better attract clients or for his own taste was a mystery.

The doctor rolled his eyes as he waved at Aventurine to keep speaking.

“So, do you happen to know of the organization calling themselves the Glasswings?”

“Yes, they’re the ones running that luxury hotel on Gahfnar.” Ratio answered swiftly. “What about them?”

“Well you see,” Aventurine started nonchalantly throwing the chip he held up in the air. “A while ago, a member of the Glasswings stole a very important data chip from an IPC member… I’m talking deadly weaponry and classified information… including,” Aventurine paused to create a dramatic effect. “A research written by the famous genius Doctor Veritas Ratio.”

Oh.

That’s absolutely outrageous.

“These fools had the audacity to take my research?!” Ratio glared at Aventurine, utterly scandalized.

How dare they take hours of research, experimentation and speculations from him? This was absolutely unacceptable! Especially with said Glasswings’ tendency to manipulate the poor in order to further enrich themselves. Ratio detested power greedy manipulators.

Ratio combed through the mental notes he had on them.

As far as he knew, Gahfnar was a planet with low or rare resources and a large population. It had refused many deals with the IPC, even with their apparent inability to sustain it’s people. Supposedly, in an attempt to show the IPC that Gahfnar was not solely a planet destined for its own destruction, a group of people who called themselves The Glasswings had rose to power and built a massive luxury hotel named The Chrysalide. It actually got quite popular. And so, an act of liberation was transformed into a pursuit of riches. Unsurprisingly, all said riches were bound to end up in the hands of the Glasswings.

Ratio knew that the hotel used the labor of the lower-class citizens to expand the hotel. All the funds collected were strangely never distributed to the population. By now, if the Glasswings wanted to build durable cities and environments, they very well could. But of course they refused. Ratio absolutely despised the idea that his research could be used to harm a population.

“Quite scandalous indeed. But,” Aventurine raised a finger. “About a week ago, the Glasswings have formally invited an ambassador of the IPC to their festival in honour of the twentieth anniversary of the hotel. They said they wished to sort things out with the IPC and perhaps open negotiations.”

 The gambler opened the drawer on his right and slipped out a pearl colored envelope. 

“I’m sure that you can understand what a great opportunity this is. Both for the data chip and for the negotiations.”

“Yet another hotel and festivities…we hadn’t seen enough of that on Penacony surely.” Ratio rolled his eyes.

Aventurine pushed the envelope towards Ratio gently. He had to say, this invitation was quite lavish. The envelope seemed white, but when the light hit it just right, it had an iridescent shine to it. At the middle there was a now opened silver wax seal, with a dainty butterfly carved on it. The symbol of the Glasswings. 

“That…is quite a stroke of luck. But may I ask why you so desperately need me to accompany you?”

Ratio took the envelope and withdrew the sparkling silver invitation card, holding it between his index and his major.

“Well, the man who wrote the invitation, Evander Winslow, is recognized for his complex puzzles. It’s even said that he wishes to one day get gazed upon by Nous for this ability.”

Ratio scoffed.

“Don’t we all…” he muttered.

“He is also the one who stole the information chip,” Aventurine added, probably choosing to ignore Ratio’s little quip. “He’s pretty powerful amongst the Glasswings. I can almost guarantee you that the infamous data chip will be hidden amongst a trail of puzzles. Which is why I need someone with a mind as sharp as yours doc!”

Ratio opened the invitation, where a beautiful cursive handwriting awaited him.

Dear Mr. Diamond,

The Glasswings association cordially invites the Interastral Peace Corporation to partake in the celebration of our beloved hotel, The Chrysalide. While we are aware that the relations between the IPC and the Glasswings have been rocky these last amber eras, we are willing to to bury the hatchet and perhaps move on to negotiations with the IPC, that is if you accept our heartfelt invitation. We would highly appreciate  if  you could send one of your precious Stonehearts, This celebration will last two weeks and all guests will be rooming within the Chrysalide. There are countless activities planned, including but not limited to: Fine dining banquets, Ballroom nights, Auctions,  Jewellery making, fashion shows, wine tasting and movie viewing. We ask that you inform us ahead of time of your presence as well of that of your partner. We will be needing  full names so we may arrange a luxurious stay for all. 

We hope that the IPC will consider this peaceful offer.

Cordially, 

Evander Winslow, puzzle master of the Glasswings 

P.S. I believe our casino could be of great interest to one of your Stonehearts…

“Hm…it would seem as if they wanted you specifically.” Ratio sighed, handing the envelope back to Aventurine. “Then I suppose…that I shall accompany you to this…frivolous event.”

While Ratio was not particularly enchanted by this, he supposed solving a few puzzles could not be too hard or bothersome. He could be of assistance to Aventurine as well. That said, he had quite the planning to do. Firstly; move all his classes which meant altering his lesson plans. Secondly; get his current researches in order, as well as organiz-

“Ah, wonderful! Thank you dear doctor! We’ll be leaving tomorrow at 9 am!”

Ratio was going to strangle the gambler.

“Pardon?! But that’s absurd I have countless preparations to do and my schedule is full today!” Ratio protested.

Aventurine chuckles charmingly.

“Allow me to clear your schedule for the day doctor, it’s the least I can do. As for the other matters such as your classes, someone has already been assigned to take care of them.” 

Aventurine placed his palm up to his chin, a strand of his shiny blond hair falling over his eye. He gave ratio a sweet smile.

“All you have to worry about is packing your finest clothes doctor!”

And so, Ratio sauntered away, refusing to even think of how beautiful Aventurine looked at that instant.

Aventurine sighed as Ratio closed the door of his office behind him. That went way better than he anticipated. Deep down, a part of him had been worried that Ratio was going to throw that chalk he used with his students at him.

Still, even after this rather successful encounter, Aventurine felt… uneasy. There was this looming feeling of anxiety rooted in his chest.

It’s not as if it went away very often though.

He laid back in his chair and gazed at the ceiling. Perhaps it was just the stress of going on yet another mission after the hellhole that was Penacony. Although, this specific feeling felt slightly different than anticipation towards the mission and the risks associated with it.

Aventurine shifted towards his computer, catching a glimpse of the sparkling envelope Ratio left on the desk. The words Ratio had spoken came back to him.

It would seem as if they wanted you specifically.

He was right. And that felt… strange. To be honest, the letter was quite puzzling. Indeed fitting for a puzzle master, Aventurine supposed.

He took out the invitation and stared at the postscript. He could feel the anxiety intensify. Why did they want him? And if this mysterious Evander Winslow so desperately wanted Aventurine to attend, why not simply send him the invitation? It’s not like a gambler like himself would’ve refused. 

I can handle it, he thought. It’s not like this mission is as dangerous as Penacony. And maybe this time the doctor can be of help.

Aventurine dropped the invitation in the trash and turned back to his computer, pulling up Ratio’s schedule. Since he was decently highly ranked in the IPC, he had access to the file. 

The doctor was not lying, he was a busy man. After his meeting with Aventurine he had five other meetings, a lunch break, two hours of research time and a social studies class to teach. Seemed like Aventurine had much organization to do.

It took him about forty-five minutes to clear Ratio’s schedule. Picking other meeting times was the most time consuming task, but Aventurine tried his best to organize his appointments in the same pattern the doctor seemed to used. He rarely played secretary but it helped take his mind off of the mission. 

For some inexplicable reason, Aventurine kept analyzing over and over his conversation with Ratio. How annoyed was the doctor? Did he think this whole ordeal was bothersome? Aventurine simply could not get Veritas Ratio out of his head.

Although he would rather die than admit out loud that he specifically requested to be paired with Ratio. 

He didn’t even know why. The request simply felt natural. It logically had to be Ratio, but really there was no logic behind it. Just a semblance of familiarity.

The gambler glanced around briefly before taking out a small cylinder like object out of his pocket. He rolled it in his hand a couple times, just to feel that it was tangible. That it was real. 

Carefully, as if it could vanish any second, he opened the cylinder to reveal Ratio’s message, the one he’d given him in Penacony.

Do stay alive. I wish you the best of luck.

Aventurine knew he should’ve thrown it out a while ago now but… for some desperate reason he had always kept it on him ever since he made it out of the nihility.

He folded the message back into his pocket before he could get too sappy. Yes, Ratio did tell him to keep on living but…it most likely did not mean anything to the man. He was simply being a good doctor.

He absolutely could not give himself idiotic false hope about the doctor. Maybe this was a mistake after all.

“Well you sure look ready for a good time Ratio!” Aventurine snickered at the doctor and his alabaster head as Ratio sat next to him.

For all travels, Aventurine had access to a luxury space ship. The thing was immense. The main sitting area had many sumptuous sofas and couches, either of a deep green or black color. The environment was decorated with golden highlights, like the golden table that Aventurine was currently laying his feet on.

Aventurine didn’t think he would ever get used to having this much space all for himself. Seriously, the spaceship could transport at the very least fifty other people, and yet there was only him and the servants.

And Ratio, this time.

“This mission is not supposed to be a good time Aventurine.” The doctor’s white plaster head disappeared. “You have quite a cozy spaceship.”

Aventurine couldn’t quite determine if that was sarcasm or not.

He observed Ratio’s stern but beautiful face. One thing that had always confused him about the doctor was that he didn’t keep his plaster head on around him. Since the genius wore it around fools or idiots, Aventurine had always wondered what made him an exception. It’s not like Ratio didn’t find him utterly annoying and foolish.

“Glad the ambiance pleases you!” The gambler stretched his arms over his head, leaning back into the green couch. “Can I offer you a drink to make this trip go smoothly?”

He cocked his head to the side, looking at Ratio through his pink coloured glasses.

“A drink? It is barely ten o clock, how can you possibly consider drinking this early?” 

Ratio turned towards Aventurine, looking at him with his everlasting annoyed expression. 

Ratio’s hair was always placed perfectly, with a single strand falling in between his eyes. His laurel headpiece was constantly at the exact same spot. It got Aventurine wondering if he measured the angle it rested at every morning.

It would be lying to say that Dr Ratio was not attractive. Of course, beauty was subjective but Ratio was tall, handsome and did absolutely no efforts to hide his strong physique. The man had a chest window for gods sake.

It’s not like it meant anything to Aventurine tho. He just… was able to appreciate a man’s beauty.

“Oh come on Veritas loosen up a little! You always look so severe…” Aventurine got up swiftly, walking towards the small bar with a grin. “I’ll make you a mimosa, maybe that’ll help put a smile on that handsome face of yours!”

He turned his head right on time to see Ratio’s eyes widen and his face turn a light shade of pink. He looked away once he noticed that the gambler was looking at him though, making Aventurine chuckle.

He enjoyed teasing Ratio a lot, because every time Aventurine even slightly complimented him, he would get flustered and try his best to hide it. It was very entertaining to the blond. Truly, he didn’t know why Ratio acted in such a way but he wasn’t complaining.

Aventurine grabbed a bottle of champagne and orange juice, making two cocktails without a care in the world (or so it seemed) until Ratio interrupted his flow.

“You’ve never called me by name before.” A simple remark, with no annoyance or snark hidden behind the doctors tone.

That was new.

“Hm? Oh.” Aventurine kept his back turned to Ratio, trying to regain his focus on the current task, which was cutting orange slices for decoration. “I don’t know, I just felt like it I guess? It was just... I won’t use your name again if you dislike it.”

“It was merely a statement. I have no disdain towards the use of my name.” Ratio’s voice was back to normal, with a slightly annoyed undertone. 

Aventurine made his way back to the couch, a mimosa in each hand.

“Whatever you say Doc!” The gambler handed Ratio’s drink to him, bowing slightly. “Made fresh just for you! Enjoy!”

Aventurine smiled charmingly at him and sat down. He took off his glasses, letting a few loose strands of hair frame his face.

“Alright so,” he took a sip of his mimosa. “There’s no event tonight, so I was thinking we could take some time to explore the hotel. I also need to assess the surroundings outside of the hotel if I’m going to strike a bargain with the Glasswings. We can’t have them scam the IPC after all.”

“I believe that is a good idea. No genius would hide puzzles in plain sight, I will therefore need to know the hotel well. When are you meeting the Glasswings?”

Ratio crossed his legs loosely, observing Aventurine with his usual calculating glare.

“I have meetings with different members for almost all of the stay… it seems they want to make sure that I won’t backstab them.”

 Aventurine chuckled bitterly. People were always scarred that they were going to be manipulated because of Aventurine’s Avgin blood. Sometimes, it stung to be mistrusted simply because of his identity, although he was pretty numb to it at this point. It was far from the worse he’d ever have to experience simply because of the colour of his eyes.

“Then I shall solve the puzzles during the day while you attend your meetings and we can share our findings during dinner.” Ratio sipped on his cocktail. 

“Works with me. Oh and I have to inform you that..” the blond looked at Ratio with a hint of guilt in his eyes. “There was only one room reserved for the IPC soooo… we’ll be sharing a bed.”

Ratio looked at Aventurine with irritation and not a second later, a beautiful white marble bust was covering his face.

What a trip this was gonna be.

Ratio was tired, hungry and frankly a bit grumpy. 

The travel had been long and far too unproductive for the doctor’s taste. Although he had tried to work a bit on his research, he was unable to focus with the gambler next to him. It wasn’t that Aventurine purposefully bothered him, but Ratio kept getting distracted by the regular tapping of Aventurine’s foot against the floor, or his small sighs that indicated his boredom. Even his alabaster head did nothing to block out the sound of a bored gambler. He could tell Aventurine was dying to strike a conversation.

While it was annoying, Ratio was thankful for Aventurine’s respect of his peace. It was for these reasons that he wasn’t awful to work with, after all. 

He was now standing in the check in line next to the flamboyant Stoneheart, debating on wether or not he should take off his plaster head. On one hand, he didn’t want to see fools. On the other hand, he wanted to observe the hotel adequately. 

He supposed taking it off would be better for the sake of his objective. After all, these mysterious puzzles could be anywhere. He removed it, his eyes taking a moment to adjust to the light. 

The space around him was indeed fitting for a grand luxury hotel. The white marble floors and walls were tall and imposing. The door frames were decorated by Greek style columns, a style that Ratio quite liked. The focus point of the hall was the opulent crystal chandelier resting atop of their heads. It was beautiful and of an impressive craftsmanship. From what Ratio had learnt from the hotel, all of the windows were made of real crystal as well.

“Oh you’re back Ratio! It’s been a while since you’ve shown your handsome face!” Aventurine teased him.

Ratio scoffed while Aventurine snickered. He talked back as they walked forward.

“That was merely so I wouldn’t have to hear your voice, gambler.”

Aventurine chuckled and smiled at the hotel attendant facing them. Ratio hadn’t noticed that it was now their turn to check in. 

Then the gambler said a thing that would change the course of the entire mission.

“Oh excuse my fiancé, he’s a bit grumpy from all the travelling. You know how they can be!” Then he gave the attendant a knowing smile, as if they were sharing a secret. 

The attendant laughed lightly, asking Aventurine for the name of his reservation to which he replied.

Ratio was flustered. What was the gambler doing? His fiancé! That was the most foolish thing he had ever heard and it was a tough competition. All he could do was stare at the blond, flabbergasted and flushed.

His plaster head appeared out of thin air, shielding his face from the world. 

Aventurine turned back to him while the attendant was searching for their reservation. 

“Aw did I offend you dear? Cmon you know it was a joke!” The gambler then placed a hand on Ratio’s shoulder, as if calling him dear wasn’t scandalous enough! 

Ratio’s face was very warm.

“I am fine.” The doctor’s answer came out a lot drier than he had intended it. He did not contradict the gambler on their supposed engagement. Surely Aventurine had a reason to make such a claim right?

“So, when is the wedding?” The desk attendant smiled fondly at them while typing something on her computer.

“Probably in a year from now, we have much planning to do. It’s very recent you see?” Aventurine was lying through his teeth and he was doing it incredibly well.

“Oh how sweet! You know what… let me arrange something quickly.”

Aventurine shot a victorious smile at Ratio, who still refused to let the gambler see his flushed face.

After a few seconds the attendant handed them a crystal key with small details engraved in it.

“Here you go! Enjoy your stay at the Chrysalide!”

“Why thank you very much! Have a wonderful day miss!” Aventurine took the key and then, to further push his lie, he took Ratio’s hand and guided him away.

As soon as they were away from the crowd in the lobby, Ratio asked him.

“What do you think you’re doing gambler?!” 

“Well… gambling!” The two men walked into the elevator and Ratio pressed the button for the top floor. Their room was all the way up on the 21st floor “We’re about to see if my efforts payed off!”

“Could you not have warned me? I…” Ratio took a second to organize his words, yet he couldn’t stop himself from blurting; “I don’t even have a ring!”

Aventurine laughed at Ratio for the following five minutes.

“Hey if that’s what you’re worried about I’ll buy you one! Silver or gold?” 

Ratio didn’t answer, eyes locked on the elevator doors that were now opening before him. He had no idea why he felt this flustered. It was just a tiny little lie and no one other than this desk attendant would know. Yet the concept of being Aventurine’s fiancé made him feel bothered. But not bothered as in mad, bothered as in… heated.

He followed Aventurine out of the elevator and walked next to him until the end of the hall, where they reached an opulent granite door. Just from the heart shaped door knob, Ratio finally understood why Aventurine had went through all this trouble to make the desk attendant believe in their engagement.

Oh for aeons sake.

“Here we go!” Aventurine unlocked the door and pushed it open, revealing a massive honeymoon penthouse. 

Ratio could never remove his plaster head in an environment like this. Every step he took inside the room shocked him further. It had pink and white as the main colours with some red highlights here and there. The sofas were decorated with heart shaped cushions, there was rose petals scattered around, hell even the faucet was heart shaped!

“Oh they sure went all out!” Aventurine couldn’t stop himself from giggling here and there while exploring the room. He turned back to Ratio, a grin on his pretty face. “This way, we’ll have a bigger bed!”

“You… did all do this for a bigger bed?!” The doctor could only gaze at Aventurine in complete disbelief.

“Well you seemed so offended of having to share a room, I thought I’d try to make this a bit better for you.” There was a hint of bitterness in the gamblers tone, one that would be unidentifiable for anyone other than Ratio.

His intentions had been misunderstood. Ratio felt a little bit guilty now.

“I hadn’t… that was not what I meant gambler, but I suppose I should be thanking you for this. Even though this was surprising, I understand that you did it with good intentions.” 

Ratio had always been the logical type, which led him to struggle with expressing his empathy towards others. It didn’t matter tho, he had a feeling Aventurine wouldn’t hold a grudge. Or at least he hoped so. 

“It’s fine doctor,” the gambler gave him one of those fake smiles he used with his clients. “I’ll head out to see what this planet looks like in a minute, you can take the time to make yourself at home.” 

Aventurine had barely put his luggage down that he was already heading out. Ratio didn’t expect him to jump straight to business.

“Before I leave though,” the blond looked back at Ratio. “Did you see the hairpin the receptionist was wearing? It was a crystal butterfly. Which means she’s with the Glasswings. Use that info how you will.”

Oh my, Ratio had been seriously flustered back then if he didn’t even notice a detail like that. He couldn’t let the gambler get to his head, he had a mission to do. Right, the mission, he was going to head out as well to check out the hotel.

He almost offered the gambler his company, but something was telling him that he would rather be alone.

Aventurine left in a hurry and Ratio was left standing in a honeymoon suit, feeling strangely bitter.

Chapter Text

It seemed there was no way to leave this damned hotel. Aventurine wandered around the place for an hour, asked anyone and everyone he encountered. From guests, to staff, to shops owners, not a single one of them was able to tell him how to venture out of the premises. How was this even possible? 

He let out an exasperated sigh, sitting down on a crystal bench. There was much more than just a hotel within the Chrysalide. The hotel was surrounded by a multitude of luxury stores of all sorts. He searched this area thoroughly but there was not one single exit leading outside.

This situation was frustrating. It was obvious that the Glasswings did not want anyone to leave this carefully crafted paradise.

Ratio was right. This was much too similar to Penacony. Hopefully he wouldn’t be given false hopes about his clan’s survival this time.

Well, it appeared this mission was a flop then.

Aeons, I do hope Ratio is doing better than me, Aventurine thought.

Ah Ratio, what an intriguing individual he was. Aventurine had so much fun seeing him all flustered earlier. He looked so scandalized when Aventurine had brought up their “engagement”.

Was it because it disgusted him? A small part of Aventurine’s mind feared this. Well… a big part. The last thing he wanted was to make his favourite doctor uncomfortable. Although, he was fully aware that Ratio already disliked him, Aventurine didn’t want to give Ratio more reasons to abandon him mock him. Maybe that would be for the best actually. He wouldn’t have to put up with Aventurine’s annoying teasing.

Well, now he could either lean into the joke harder or try to act like it didn’t happen.

Aventurine sighed and fixed his hair. he had to look flawless after all. Given he was from the IPC, many representatives participating in the festivities gawked at him in disbelief. It was a first, never had any previous members of the Corporation been invited to the hotel. Aventurine had to keep up appearances and make the Stonehearts look impeccable.

As he got up from the bench, a jewellery store with a luxurious interior caught his eye. Suddenly, he heard Ratio’s voice in his head saying “I don’t even have a ring!”

… he was gonna lean into the joke harder it seemed.

Aventurine got up and approached the store, walking confidently. He was barely inside the door that a saleswoman appeared next to him.

“Welcome to Westwood jewelry! My name is Laura and I’m here to assist…” the girl suddenly became wide eyed, realizing Aventurine’s status as an IPC member. “You…”

Aventurine let out an amused chuckle, secretly uneasy at the way the girl’s gaze wandered to his neck. That particular spot of his neck. It’s not as if she knew what she was looking at, but the action made Aventurine uncomfortable out of habit.

“Laura hm? Well that’s great, I need help finding something special.” The girl looked back at him, probably realizing that she had been a bit impolite.

“Of course! I… I’m sorry for my surprise sir, we’re just not used to seeing people of your popularity here you see? What can I help you find?”

Well, at least she felt a bit ashamed.

“I’d like to see the highest quality rings you have, for men.” He smiled slightly, trying to diffuse the awkwardness in the air.

“Right this way Mr. Aventurine!” 

She guided him to a large showcase filled with various designs of rings. Aventurine thought about Ratio’s attire and his headpiece and decided that the doctor would probably prefer a gold ring. After all, many different pieces of his outfit were in fact gold, there was never silver in sight.

“These rings are all made in the finest materials with an impressive craftsmanship. Maybe a man like you would enjoy one of these?”

Laura gestured towards a few rings that were adorned of a green stone, of course. She was suggesting for the Stoneheart Aventurine to get a ring with an aventurine stone. How amusing.

“Oh I am not looking for something for myself.” His eyes wandered around the various rings. None of them were nearly intricate enough for the doctor. A man with such character deserved a ring that would show said character. “Hmmm… these aren’t quite what I’m looking for. Do you have anything with more… personality?

“Oh, are you interested in our more artistic pieces?  If so, you’re in luck! We've got three beautiful designs that I could go get for you sir!” The saleswoman had a glint in her eyes that was easily recognizable as the hope of making a good commission on an incredibly expensive ring. 

Aventurine agreed and in no time, the girl was back with three black boxes. She lined them up in front of him, opening them carefully one by one.

The first ring was a silver band with the carving of an anatomical heart tangled in vines. The craftsmanship was impressive. Maybe this could do, Ratio was a doctor after all. But something about it felt unfit, either the fact that it was silver or simply the style of the ring. Aventurine didn’t want to settle for something that wasn’t perfect. When it came to Ratio, he wanted everything to be as impeccable as possible.

The second ring was carved out of crystal, it was obviously very fragile. It had fairy wing carvings all around it. Very beautiful, but not at all the doctor’s style.

The third one though was absolutely perfect. Aventurine’s face lit up upon seeing it. Oh yes. This will do nicely.  The ring was made of gold and was adorned of small leaves carved upon it. It had the allure of a laurel crown, in the size of a ring. It matched perfectly with Ratio’s headpiece. Aventurine could’ve seriously believed that the headpiece was a long lost copy of this ring. He felt a tinge of excitement, knowing this would be perfect for the doctor.

“I’ll take the gold one. Package it with much care if you may.” Aventurine had a bit of trouble keeping his cool and collected demeanour, too pleased with this find. Maybe his luck had helped him and for once he was grateful for it.

“You have great taste sir! I’ll get right to it! So this ring is priced at-“

“Oh don’t bother,” Aventurine cut the saleswoman off, reaching for his IPC credit card. “The price has no importance to me.” 

With his position in the IPC, he had more money than he could ever fathom. Not that it ever helped the others on Sigonia. He did not mind paying whatever price that gorgeous ring was, especially not if it was for Ratio.

A few minutes later, Aventurine walked out of the store with a luxurious bag and a rare genuine smile quietly lighting up his face.

Ratio was in fact, not at all more successful than Aventurine. Every part of the hotel had been inspected with the utmost precision and yet, Ratio hadn’t found anything out of the ordinary. Sure, some things were odd but not strange enough. He had started by the most logical places, notably the conference rooms and the computer room. Since when did hotels have one of those?

Well, it wasn’t like this hotel was a regular one. Ratio even found a research lab, strangely enough. Of course, there hadn’t been anything interesting in there either. All it had done was make him miss his own. Why exactly did he agree to this mission again?

At least, he discovered that the basement levels were reserved to Glasswings business and only accessible by them. Who knew if that information would be useful in the future?

Discouraged but not surprised, the doctor was now heading back to his and Aventurine’s honeymoon suite. 

Aeons that thing better have an adequate bathtub or else I’m not making it through this trip, Ratio thought as he came to a stop in front of the elevator.

“Mister Ratio! Mister Ratio!” 

Ratio heard someone calling for him and turned around, an expression of disdain on his face.

“It’s Doctor Ratio you imbecile, I did not obtain eight doctorates for you to refer me as mister.” Ratio rolled his eyes, suddenly having a strong urge to wear his alabaster head.

A young woman probably in her mid-twenties with short brown hair stopped in front of him.

“Right! My apologies Doctor!” She held out a hand for Ratio to shake, which he did not do. “Sorry I should introduce myself… my name is Kathryn Willows, I’m a reporter for Interstellar newspaper. You might’ve heard about us, we’re sponsored by the IPC after all…”

Ratio looked at her flatly. He highly disliked being bothered, especially by someone who didn’t even have the decency to respect his title.

“What is the purpose of this intrusion of my peace?” The elevator doors opened behind Ratio. He went in, not caring if the reporter followed him or not.

Of course, he couldn’t have been left alone this easily. She followed him in, clutching onto a notebook.

“Well, you might not know me but I know a lot about your accomplishments Dr. Ratio! You have done some incredible stuff, so I was wondering if you’d be interested in answering a few questions for me? I never expected to see a true genius like you when I accepted to cover this event, but I won’t let this opportunity go!” 

Ratio let out a long sigh.  He noted the fact that the woman had called him a true genius. 

All he wished for was to take a good bath with one of his psychology books and unwind. He looked at the elevator panel, eyeing the number 1 lit up. He was going to be stuck in this elevator with this woman for a while so…

“You may ask me questions from now until I get to my room so I advise you to be wise with what you ask.” The doctor resigned. “Do not waste my time.”

The reporters face lit up, clearly surprised that Ratio was giving her this chance. It was indeed rare for him to say yes to interviews.

“Why are you at the Chrysalide?” Clearly she had chosen to rapid fire her questions, and she was about to find out why many people disliked interviewing Ratio.

“Business.” One simple word was the only answer Ratio gave her.

Even if she was clearly surprised by this simplicity, Kathryn did not let it slow her down.

“What is your current research on?”

“A way to join together medicine and engineering, far too complicated to explain to the common person.” 

“Why are you not a part of the Genius Society?”

That question had the same effect as a punch in the gut to Ratio. It was a question he asked himself often. He had some theories as to why Nous hadn’t gazed upon him, but as a scholar, the incertitude killed him sometimes.

“The genius society has methods that are borderline animalistic and inhumane. Perhaps I do not want to be apart of it, or perhaps I do not hold enough knowledge for Nous.” Ratio answered frankly, as he always did.

The elevator was up to the 19th floor now. This would be over soon, to his great happiness.

“Do you enjoy being a teacher?”

“Of course. I wouldn’t teach classes if I didn’t want to. It’s but a small doing to help cure the disease that is ignorance.” The elevator doors opened on the 21st floor and Ratio hurried out.

“Okay I have one last question!” The reporter was still following him. Ratio shouldn’t have agreed to this. “Is it true that you are engaged to the Stoneheart Aventurine?”

And so, without thinking (which is incredibly ironic for a man with 8 PhDs) Ratio answered;

“Yes it is.” He then realized the words that had just came out of his mouth and stopped in his track, utterly scandalized by the way his brain had betrayed him. 

“Oh how interesting…” Kathryn grinned at him mischievously, as if that was the purpose of her entire questioning. “Well congrats on the engagement! I’ll be taking my leave now, have a great evening Dr. Ratio!”

Oh no. Oh fuck. Oh for aeons sake Ratio had just monumentally fucked up.

Before he had the time (or the intention) to correct himself, she had vanished. What the hell was Ratio even doing? He had absolutely no reason to keep up with their engagement lie, it was just something they said to a receptionist! But now… he may have to act like Aventurine’s fiancé.

Why couldn’t he think straight when it came to that damn gambler?

Ratio sighed in disbelief, making it back to their room. The endless heart theme welcomed him back as he walked in.

“Aventurine?” He called out, wanting to know if the Stoneheart was back, but the total silence informed him that he wasn’t.

Perhaps that was for the better.

He needed a bath to clear his mind. Maybe something in the way Aventurine had called him dear altered something in his brain that was causing him to fuck up. He absentmindedly got around the suite to get his things, making sure to have his rubber duck with him. He also took a change of clothes, something fancier than what he was wearing since him and Aventurine were going for diner soon.

Him and his… “fiancé”. As much as it annoyed him, Ratio could feel his face heat up. Why did the thought of being engaged to Aventurine make him this flustered? It’s not like he had any feelings for him! Of course, he couldn’t deny that the gambler was quite attractive but it couldn’t be simply that. Why had he even confirmed their utterly not real engagement?!

The bathroom had, to his great delight, a beautiful and big bathtub that was surprisingly (and to his even greater delight), not heart shaped. Thank Nous, Ratio could have never taken a serious bath in one of those ridiculous things.

He tried changing his mind by reading a psychology textbook while bathing. It worked… fine. His rubber duck was floating around, looking highly judgmental of Ratio’s thoughts. It seemed he was going insane. He tried his best to focus on the book, but after about twenty minutes, right as he had successfully gotten Aventurine out of his head, he heard the sound of the main door opening.

That damn gambler.

“Hey Ratio, I’m back!” Aventurine’s playful voice reached Ratio, who decided that trying to not think of the blond was useless now. He sounded oddly pleased with himself.

 Maybe his search had went better than Ratio’s.

“I’m in the bathroom.” Ratio shouted back. 

It took the doctor ten minutes to get ready. He got out of the bathroom wearing a white suit with a violet tie, the rich color complimenting his hair. The outfit had a few golden accessories, like his headpiece and the buttons on his suit. Overall, it was neat and classic but more than appropriate for a luxury diner.

He found Aventurine sitting on the counter in the kitchen, looking at his phone. He looked up hearing Ratio’s footsteps and his eyes widened as he looked at him.

“Wow Doc, you sure do look handsome!” The gambler smiled at him teasingly.

It was so like Aventurine to be on Ratio’s mind so long and then finish him off with a flirty comment.

Focus Ratio, he scolded himself. 

“Gambler, I’m afraid I’ve… made a mistake.” Ratio crossed his arm over his chest.

“Oh? What happened?” The blond looked at him with a hint of worry in his beautiful vibrant eyes.

Ratio huffed, trying not to look embarrassed at what he was about to admit.

“I… may have told a journalist that our… engagement… was real.” He let his words sink in for a few seconds before adding, “and for Aeons sake sit on a chair your posture is terrible.”

He watched the gambler’s eyes shift from worried to surprised, to a very tiny sliver of amusement. Aventurine let out a lighthearted laugh, looking at Ratio with taunting grin. Clearly he did not understand the gravity of the situation, or at least not Ratio’s perspective of it.

“Who knew you wanted to marry me so desperately huh Ratio?”  Aventurine joked, completely unaware that this phrase would haunt Ratio for the rest of his existence.

He found himself completely speechless for a few seconds, feeling the blush sneaking onto his face.

“What?! That is- utter nonsense I-“ An ivory plaster head suddenly appeared on the doctors face. “I am absolutely not…”

Aventurine’s laugh reached his ears as he was still trying to explain himself. Unlike those frequent fake laughs the gambler uttered, this one sounded genuine, as if this did really amuse him. 

Maybe Ratio had to start wearing his alabaster head around him more often.

“Relax doctor I was just teasing you! And if you were worried about my reaction, well I’ll let you know that it doesn’t bother me at all. In fact…” The blond moved next to Ratio, who heard the rustling of a shopping bag. “I have something for you right here! But I’ll only give it to you if you let me see your handsome face.” 

Well now that you’ve said that I can’t, wanted to scream Ratio. But he obliged, making his plaster head disappear with a sigh. He disliked looking vulnerable or flustered in front of others, but with the way things were going, something was telling him that this was not the last time Aventurine would have to witness this.

The blond hopped down of the counter, that teasing little smile still on his lips. He was holding a mysterious object behind his back.

“Before this, gambler, I would like to specify that you do not need to buy me gifts in order to soothe any conflicts between us.“ Ratio crossed his arms over his chest. He knew that Aventurine’s extreme wealth could sometimes push him to spend in order to obtain others forgiveness (it wasn’t quite hard to figure out for someone with a psychology doctorate).

“Conflict?” The Stoneheart frowned, tilting his head. “About what?”

“Earlier, you seemed to have misunderstood me or my intentions.”

“Oh, that was never a problem, don’t worry about it. My gift is not related to that conversation. Well… you’ll see.” Aventurine seemed pensive for a split second, but his previous expression soon returned to him.

“If you say so, gambler.” Ratio tried to conceal the curiosity in his gaze. He was intrigued (and frankly a bit scared) of what Aventurine could’ve possibly gotten him. He didn’t receive gifts often and was incredibly uncreative when he had to give some. Unlike him, Aventurine was full of surprises…

“Well, since you wish to be my husband so bad,” The gambler revealed a small black box  and proceeded to (to Ratio’s incredible surprise) kneel as if he was proposing. “Veritas Ratio will you be my pretend husband for the following two weeks?”

The words made Ratio freeze, his brain trying to piece the information in the most logical way possible. He looked down at the box, noticing an absolutely beautiful golden ring. 

“You bought me a ring?” Perplexed because of the strange situation, Ratio reached for it to examine it closer. The quality was undeniable. The vine pattern was exquisite and the shade of gold matched perfectly with the one he always wore. 

“Earlier in the elevator you said you didn’t have one so… I thought this one would do the trick.” Aventurine chuckled nervously before adding, “It looks like your headpiece don’t you think doctor?” 

“It’s… absolutely perfect. You certainly have a keen eye gambler. Thank you.” Ratio’s stern face lit up, if only a small bit, with a satisfied smile. He slipped the ring on his rings finger and looked back at Aventurine. “As for your… proposal… I accept.”

As any man would, he thought while hoping that his face hadn’t gotten too red. 

“Although, I would still ask for your forgiveness towards my… utter foolishness. I suppose I was… destabilized by the journalist. I’m quite aware that this information will be leaked, and I apologize for the trouble this may cause you.”

“Oh don’t worry, it won’t be the first crazy rumour to go around about me. Anyways, we would’ve had to keep up with the lie since I did say it to a Glasswing. I hadn’t thought about that before, but if they’re all connected then it’s better for us to be engaged.” Aventurine paused, as if calculating his next words. “That said… I am sorry that this could… tarnish… your reputation.”

Ratio’s brow furrowed at that statement.

“Tarnish? If anything, this will me make me look like a man with taste. You are somewhat of a minor celebrity after all. As for… the other aspects, I do not care about a fool’s opinion.”

He knew that Aventurine would understand what he meant by the other aspects. Ratio doubted that the gambler would say it out loud, so he did the same. To Ratio, prejudice against the Avgin was petty, childish and narrow-minded. Many people did not know Aventurine, but acted as if his Avgin origin defined him. For the doctor, he was simply another living being who was deserving of respect. 

“Thank you Ratio.” It was rare to hear Aventurine say these words this genuinely. “Well, since you’re all dressed up, I’ll go get ready for dinner. See you later dear.” 

Ratio was going to die from this.

Aventurine’s emotions were a strange mix. He was relieved that Ratio seemed to love his ring, content since his conversation with the doctor went well and uneasy because thinking too hard about the Avgin stereotypes never failed made him feel uncomfortable. 

Making his way to the enormous bedroom, he took a deep breath to stabilize himself. Really, the outcome was positive. It couldn’t bother him less to act like Ratio’s lover. The doctor was much more respectful than many others, and as he stated earlier, he was very handsome. 

Aventurine opened one of his four suitcases, pondering on which clothes he should wear for the evening. He brought  more than enough for two weeks worth of travel, but he liked having options and knowing he would not run out. 

He chose a dark green coloured attire, not straying far from his usual palette. It was much more exuberant than Ratio’s clean and classy suit, but it fit Aventurine’s style perfectly. He paired it with a nice watch, golden earrings, bracelets and kept his usual black gloves. He decided against the hat for the night, the look seemed complete without it. Of course, he added the final touch of  perfume (from his personal brand) to tie it all together. The colour really made his hair shine.

Feeling satisfied, he quickly took the scroll containing Ratio’s advice and shoved it in the pocket of this new outfit. 

He stepped out of the bedroom, finding the doctor in the living room area, reading a book. He seemed absorbed by its content, but lifted his head as Aventurine approached.

“Are you ready to go gambler? I’m famished.” Ratio got up, turning his head to the side as soon as he got a good look at Aventurine. “… I suppose I should return your compliment.”

It took a second for the Stoneheart to understand that Ratio was trying to tell him that he looked handsome, like Aventurine had complimented him earlier. Of course, the doctor could never say the actual words.

Aventurine smiled at him, offering his hand.

“Aw thanks doc! Shall we go then?”

The two men made their way to the main restaurant, holding hands tightly. Aventurine could feel that Ratio was tense the entire way. He refused to look at the blond too often, his jaw was tight. He also noticed that the doctor had a tendency to fidget with his new ring.

As soon as they entered the restaurant, many eyes were on them. Not only on Aventurine as an IPC member, but on their joint hands. Ratio retorted to glaring at the fools while the gambler had his practiced smile on his lips. Without realizing, the change in environment made him cling to the scholar tighter.

Aventurine took the lead, destabilizing Ratio. Walking up to the hostess stand, he smiled softly at the young girl standing behind it. On her black uniform was pinned a delicate glass butterfly.

“Good evening miss! We’d like a table for two, if you may.” 

“Ah, mister Aventurine! It is an honour to have you here. We have a table for you in the VIP section!” The girl smiled back politely, taking two menus underneath the counter. “If you just follow me.”

It seemed all the Glasswings were aware of his presence. Well if he could get superior treatment out of it, he wasn’t complaining. 

He noticed how the girl was focusing on him, sparing Ratio only a few quick glances. How odd. He knew that he was somewhat famous, but Ratio was very widely known. It didn’t take a genius to know him, especially since so many of his fans praised his appearance. Aventurine being one of them.

They followed the young lady to their table, turning even more heads on the way. She lead them to a secluded area, where a soft jazz music was playing. The ambiance was classy, the room only lit up by warm lights and candles. They passed many couples and groups, all dressed to the nines. Their table was right next to the window, offering a delightful view of the hotel complex.

They sat down and the hostess placed the menus in front of them, stepping back and bowing her head.

“The Glasswings wish you, Mister Aventurine,” she glanced at Ratio furtively. “And your fiancé, a great evening. Your waitress will be right with you, if you require any assistance, the restaurant staff will be happy to help you.”

Aventurine nodded and the hostess left in a hurry, Ratio glaring at her suspiciously. The doctor leaned towards him, speaking in a low voice.

“The oldest that child can possibly be is fifteen. Do the Glasswings really recruit this young?” He frowned, clearly bothered by the matter.

Aventurine hadn’t thought of that. It was true that she was quite young to be apart of a cultish organization managing a hotel. 

“Now that you’ve mentioned it, it is quite strange.” Decidedly, they hadn’t really grasped the situation of the Glasswings. “You see, even she was aware of our engagement. It seems I was right with my guess.”

The doctor nodded, getting ahold of the menu. Aventurine could tell that something was lingering in his mind, but knew better than to ask about it. 

They ate a hearty meal, accompanied by a red wine Aventurine had chosen. Ratio hadn’t drank much, explaining that he was not the biggest fan of alcoholic drinks. Their dinner had been peaceful, Aventurine had insisted that they keep the business talk for after they ate. He claimed that he wanted to enjoy himself a bit. Truly he was afraid that the doctor would be disappointed of his inconclusive search.

As Aventurine was sipping the last of his wine, Ratio took the lead.

“Alright gambler, I believe it is time to compare our notes.” Ratio placed his hands on the table, the ring Aventurine bought him glimmering with pride. “I cannot say that I was quite successful, this place is indeed complex. That said, I was able to obtain information stating that the basement levels were only accessible by the Glasswings, and used for their operations.” 

Ratio spoke quietly, his tone frank and his voice rich and deep as always. Admiring the doctor’s handsome face while slightly intoxicated (especially in this dim lighting) made Aventurine blush ever so slightly. Then he remembered he had to answer.

“I couldn’t find much either… the outside is incredibly well guarded. And not a single employee slipped up.” He took the final sip of his wine. “Well since this day was inconclusive, we should go socialize.”

Ratio groaned at that word. Whilst he clearly wasn’t shy, the doctor was introverted. Aventurine was aware that no one was quite the conversational match for a genius like Ratio, but he had a job to do. He had to admit that he wasn’t particularly excited about it. This day had been long, and he was still a bit frustrated that he didn’t know more about the planet. It was not going to look good during his meetings tomorrow.

“I know that you dislike it Doc but I need to flaunt my husband don’t I?” Aventurine winked maliciously at him, revelling in the way Ratio flushed immediately. 

“I will accompany you for a while but i will be heading to get some rest afterwards. My sleep schedule is very important to me, and I’d like to take advantage of the fact that there is no event ongoing.” 

Of course Ratio was the type to go to bed early.

Aventurine nodded and got up. The bill was simply going to be put on his card, but he left quite a substantial tip on the table nonetheless. He believed firmly that those who worked hard to please the rich deserved to be payed handsomely. 

They made their way to a VIP lounge area, said the perfect place to socialize with guests of high importance. It took no time for people to approach them. To Aventurine’s surprise, the doctor stayed close to him. And yet, he gave the gambler enough space to move around and feel comfortable.

 In a sense, he looked like Aventurine’s bodyguard. Many men and women seemed disappointed when the charming Stoneheart introduced the stoic and calculating Ratio as his future husband. The doctor simply glared back at them, as if daring them to even touch his “fiancé”. 

He was really playing his part well.

He almost didn’t speak, until a woman in her thirties with long blond hair, wearing a black suit approached them. For the first time of the entire night, she addressed herself directly to Ratio.

“You are the famous Dr. Ratio, is that right?” 

To which he responded;

“Indeed I am. Who may you be?” The doctor’s expression hadn’t softened, but he seemed slightly interested.

“I am Dre. Rowan, very pleased to meet you in person. I’m a researcher and professor at Milas university, I find your research subjects to be incredibly fascinating.” 

That made the genius’s eyes light up. 

“I must say I am flattered, I have myself loved your thesis on archeological impacts in different planets. I am happy to meet to a fellow scholar.” 

Aventurine clearly couldn’t be a part of their conversation. They started discussing concepts of research and other things as such. He should leave the doctor alone. He would simply be a burden if he kept standing there, utterly confused about the conversation. 

He sighed ever so slightly, trying to shove away his feelings of uselessness. Of course he couldn’t hold an interesting conversation with Ratio like those geniuses did. God why was he always so stupid?

Pushing away the frustration once more, he turned the other way, searching for his next conversational victim. After all, it was a good thing that Ratio finally had someone as intelligent as him to converse with. Aventurine had his own job to do. 

He spotted a shiny butterfly pin and knew immediately who he had to talk to. He approached a man about his height with auburn hair. He seemed decently older than Aventurine, about in his early forties. 

The man turned slightly towards Aventurine, his gaze becoming curious as he saw him. It was better if he would strike the conversation. That way he couldn’t be accused of manipulating the man because of his Avgin blood. 

“Ah well if it isn’t our favourite IPC ambassador! Mister Aventurine, what an incredible pleasure!” The man sauntered closer, his butterfly pin shining. 

“Oh trust me, the pleasure is all mine!” He gave him a flirty smile, throwing one of his chips in the air. It was a small act, but it made him look more relaxed and approachable than he was. 

“Ah silly me, you don’t even know my name! You can call me Damion. The Glasswings are honoured to have you here! Would you like a drink Mister Aventurine?” He signalled to a young server with a tray serving champagne.

Another teenager. Now that Ratio had pointed it out, he couldn’t stop noticing the overwhelming amount of young people serving as Glasswings.

“Why not? You don’t get this level of luxury everyday!” He slipped out a few hundred credits out of his pocket and slid it on the tray, taking a drink in the same movement. The young boy’s eyes widened and he walked away, bowing his head like the hostess had done earlier.

He took a small sip, knowing that if he drank too much things could go south. 

“You know, they told me you were something else but I couldn’t quite imagine all of this,  you are… quite the phenomenon.” Damion took a sip of champagne. “That chip of yours is beautiful! I dabble in poker myself. In fact, I will be at the casino tonight, if ever you’d like to join me for a game… I’m certain we’d have great chemistry.”

Ew. Ew. Ew.

Aventurine had learnt not to cringe at comments like these anymore, but they still made him feel a bit gross. The fact that he was getting more and more annoyed was not helping. Yet he did not let any of that show.

Right at this instant, the gambler felt a hand place itself loosely on his hip and the familiar scent of Ratio’s cologne reached him.

“Are you alright honey?” The doctor’s beautiful voice resonated behind him. The blond unconsciously relaxed, leaning into Ratio’s touch. The alcohol made him clingy.

“Ah! Veritas!” He tried to hide his surprise the best he could, looking up at his fiancé and smiling softly. He turned back towards Damion. “This is my fiancé, Dr. Veritas Ratio. You’ve probably heard of our engagement by now.” 

“Oh yes, I have.” By the way his tone had changed, Aventurine knew that Ratio was giving him a nasty death stare. “Penacony sure can bring two people close!” 

“Shouldn’t those children working in your restaurants be in school? Unless you have another system that provides them with education?” It was obvious, the scholar has been itching to ask this question.

The Glasswing laughed, as if the doctor’s question was completely futile. It always impressed Aventurine how men could go from interested and flirty to bitter and passive-aggressive in less than a second.

“Having the honour to be apart of the Glasswings is their education. Trust me, they learn more here then they do out there in the dirt.”

Ratio tensed, Aventurine knew it. Education and access to it was one of the thing that held great importance to him. Before the blond could try and ease the growing tension, the doctor shot back.

“Oh, they learn to become mindless little servants for your greedy organization?”

“I’m personally going to head back to our room dear, the trip tired me out.” Aventurine interrupted the conversation before Damion had a chance to answer. He smiled apologetically at him. “Sorry, he doesn’t quite understand how things work out here. As for your offer, I’ll think about it.”

He winked and dragged Ratio away, his grip tight on the doctor’s arm. He put down his glass of champagne on a table on the way out. He lead him to the corridor outside the lounge, far from everyone before letting go.

“Ratio I understand that your morals are important to you but you cannot cause a scene the first night we’re here.” Aventurine said in a low voice, his indignation making itself clear.

The doctor crossed his arms. His face may appear neutral to most people, but Aventurine could see the flames of anger in his sunset coloured eyes. 

“My apologies Aventurine but I cannot stand absolute morons who believe they can get away with everything. Those children shouldn’t be serving this… this cult!” He spared Aventurine a side glance. “And that comment he made was very distasteful.”

“Listen I promise that when we’ll take this planet back I’ll ask the IPC to let you establish whatever education system you wish but for now there is nothing we can do. It’s crucial that I have good relations with the Glasswings in order for this mission to work.” The gambler ran a hand through his hair, sighing quietly. “Don’t even worry about the stuff they say, I deal with this type of men way more often than you could ever imagine. I’ve heard worse, I can handle it. You may not like it but it is apart of my job.”

“Don’t you ever feel unsafe?” There was, strangely enough, not an ounce of anger in Ratio’s tone. 

Yet the words still made all of Aventurine’s bottled up irritation flare up.

“I am not weak Ratio I can protect myself.” He turned towards the so called genius with force, his tone much harsher than he was used to. Aeons he was so tired of being seen like a harmless pretty face who couldn’t do anything. Of course, that’s what he had to show, but a part of him had thought a doctor with a degree in psychology could see through that.

“Aventurine you know damn well that is not what I meant-“ Ratio tried to justify, but the Stoneheart was already completing his thought.

“Do you seriously think I’d let them take advantage of me? After all I’ve been through? I always have the upper hand.” The sight of Aventurine’s illusionary persona slipping up whatsoever was definitely a rare one. 

“Gambler.” Ratio’s soft voice was definitely just as rare. He had a strange expression on his face, one that Aventurine had never seen before. “I have never thought of you as weak or unintelligent. My only concern was that an environment akin to the one you work in everyday is unhealthy. Not that could not handle it.”

Oh he had gone overboard. He had done too much. Ratio was so respectful to him, he didn’t deserve to get yelled at. He still did believe that his anger was justified, but he wasn’t supposed to act like this. No, Aventurine was unbothered, cool and mysterious. Aventurine was not angry, and he did not feel guilty for snapping. He simply, did not feel. He swallowed hardly and snapped out of his haze, looking up at Ratio.

“I’m sorry, doctor… I went too far.” Apologies now done, the mask was back on.“We should get back to our room.”

He started walking towards the elevator, assuming Ratio would follow him. As he was walking away looking relaxed, taking deep breaths to get rid of the mix of emotions he was feeling, Ratio’s voice reached him.

“Truly I should apologize. I assure you that I will not be in your way again. You may accomplish your work how you so please, and I shall take care of mine.” 

Without turning back towards him, Aventurine mumbled a small thank you. They walked in silence to the elevator, settling inside after pushing the button for the 21st floor. Then something from earlier came back to him.

He turned towards Ratio with a cocky grin.

“You called me honey back there, I didn’t know you were a fan of nicknames Ratio!”

As always, Aventurine’s teasing was met with a shiny plaster head. The sound of his laugh echoed in the elevator, mixed with Ratio’s grumbled explanations.

-

Ratio felt confused the entire way back. What had just happened? He knew alcohol could make the truth come out but he has never seen Aventurine in such a way. Of course Ratio wouldn’t agree with an environment full of toxicity, but had the gambler really thought that he underestimated him? He was actually quite impressed with Aventurine’s intelligence, his plans and schemes were all of a complexity that would be impossible to imagine for most. Yet for some reason, the blond seemed to think that Ratio saw him as an idiot. That was very far from the truth.

It was true that he had felt a bit… protective… of him earlier. But his intention had never been to anger Aventurine. He simply wanted him to be safe. 

They had only been here less than one day and they had already fought twice. How splendid.

His intellectual trance was only interrupted once he entered their suite. The environment was still so outlandish and ridiculous that he couldn’t even keep reflecting. How did people seriously book rooms like these? 

Aventurine (who seemed completely back to normal) sat down on the couch, adopting a position that made Ratio worry for the health of his articulations. He took out his phone and said absentmindedly to the doctor;

“Go ahead and get ready, I will not be going to bed right away. I have some other matters to take care of. I’ll try not to wake you up when I come back. I would hate to disrupt your important sleep schedule after all!” 

“You are heading out?” Ratio chose his next words carefully, making sure Aventurine wouldn’t feel offended once more. “Very well then. Do not worry about waking me, I sleep quite deeply. That said, if I awake tomorrow only to see you sleeping on the sofa I will be throwing chalk at you. That bed is more than large enough for the two of us.”

The gambler nodded, smiling flatly. Ratio left the room, heading towards the spot of the bedroom where he placed his luggage. His singular black suitcase seemed very frugal compared to Aventurine’s four immense suitcases. How many things did that gambler possibly need for a two week travel? It was indeed possible that the negotiations would take longer than two weeks, but it wasn’t as if they’d be staying here six months.

Oh well, it was quite fitting for a Stoneheart.

As Ratio reached towards his suitcase, a shiny object caught his eye. He approached the bed to get a closer look. 

On the ruby bed-cover was a pristine white envelope. It glimmered under the light, akin to the invitation Aventurine had in his office. Ratio took is hastily, glaring in shock at the words in precise cursive handrwiting saying;

Dr. Veritas Ratio

What in the bloody hell.

He swiftly tore the envelope, taking out and unfolding a a thick page, where the same cursive handwriting welcomed him.

Doctor Ratio,

I must say, you are the last person I expected to attend this event. Although I could easily chalk it up to you accompanying your so called “fiancé”, it would be absolutely idiotic to do so. Since you are an intelligent man, I will get to the point. The reason you are attending the celebration of my hotel is all in the hopes to recover your research, correct? As a genius myself, I am formally challenging you to a battle of intellects. Here is what I have to offer. The data chip containing your precious work is hidden behind many complex puzzles. During the celebration, I will give you clues and enigmas to solve in order to help you. You may not trust me, but I assure you that I do play fair. If you manage to solve every puzzle, your research is once again yours. However if you fail, I get something very valuable (you will know later what it consist of). I know you are not a notorious gambler like the one you claim to be getting married to, but I do wish you accept to play this game with me. Since I’m quite certain you won’t refuse, the first clue is in this envelope. 

Good luck, mundanite.

Evander Winslow, Puzzlemaster

P.-S.: Keep your distance from Aventurine’s bussiness. I have my own plans for that beautiful signonian.

Oh absolutely the fuck not. If the Puzzlemaster thought he could destabilize Ratio with a stupid game of intellect, he was foolishly mistaken. Very well then. 

Ratio was going to destroy him.

Chapter Text

While Ratio was soundly asleep in a warm bed, Aventurine had drank twelve shots, three cocktails and two glasses of champagne.

Although it was shameful to admit, he was really fucking drunk.

He spent at the very least a good two hours and a half in the casino, flirting and gambling in order to obtain even the slightest information. He soon understood that the Glasswing he talked to earlier was absolutely useless and didn’t know anything. He then went to spend his charm on some other Chrysalide big shot. 

More importantly, he learned more information about the Puzzlemaster. According to his sources, Evander Winslow was the co-founder of the Chrysalide. It was said that he was gifted with a brilliant mind and that without him, the hotel would’ve never reached the heights of wealth and fame that it now has. He was now known as the “Big boss” of the Glasswings, running the bigger picture while the others were either working in the hotel or taking care of things like commerce and finances. The tasks were divided depending on how long a member had been in the organization. This provided an explanation as to why all the waiters were so young. 

Elusive was the way many described Evander Winslow. A cunning man who runs all in the background but is rarely seen. Very few were allowed in his bussiness. It made Aventurine even more confused as to why someone like him would be so interested in a self-destructive gambler.

All this information was of a certain importance and would help with the negotiations, that was, if he remembered any of it by tomorrow morning. Aventurine knew drinking this much was not a poor idea. It always started with simply wanting something to keep him awake and alert and ended up spiralling down into a way to forget that he was an idiotic, useless and terrible person.

Funny how he claimed that drinking helped him forget those things, when truly all it did was shed a light on his insecurities. 

Starting to feel exhausted, he finally decided to head back to his room, feeling sluggish and dizzy. He was then wandering in the halls, plagued by a terrible lack of coordination. He had a feeling he would like the peaceful atmosphere, if his inner thoughts could finally shut up for more than a second.

Filthy liar you don’t deserve any of this.

You are monstrous

Liar

Not a single person would miss you if you died.

Liar

Will you ever stop lying?

Liar

They don’t care for you.

Liar

It’s all your fault

Liar

It’s all your fault you monster.

In an attempt to regain a grip on reality, Aventurine’s hand slid in his pocket and held onto Ratio’s message. It was so pathetically sentimental how a small object like this was able to calm him down. Ten words saved him from a deep abyss far too often. The minuscule hope that someone cared for him, even the slightest bit kept him going.

He needed to go to bed before his thoughts consumed him. He hated falling asleep. Realistically, it wouldn’t fix the issue. His mind would continue to torture him deep in his slumber, throwing him into haunting nightmares to make sure that he’d never escape his past.

Aventurine hoped Ratio hadn’t lied about being a heavy sleeper. The last thing he wanted was to wake up the doctor due to one of his nightmares. He’d rather to eat one of his gambling chips over showing Ratio such a vulnerable side to him. The gambler considered sleeping on the sofa, but the genius had already called him out on it.

Lost in thought, Aventurine hadn’t realized that he crashed straight into someone. The impact shook him out of his haze. Before he could even register who he bumped into, the individual was already apologizing.

“My apologies Sir. I’m so sorry, I was distracted.” The voice was not able to conceal it’s owner’s nervousness. Oddly enough, he could tell that the person was not a Glasswing simply from the way they spoke.

Aventurine focused his gaze on the person before him. She was a middle aged woman with dark red hair. She was staring at the floor, seemingly terrified of Aventurine.

“Oh, no need to apologize, it was my fault, my apologies.” It was one of the first times that a non-glasswing employee addressed him. Naturally, he wanted to know more. “May I know your name?”

“… Nadia, sir.” There was still a lingering  expression of anxiety on her face. An expression of… inferiority.

It reminded Aventurine of who he used to be and he despised that.

“Well it’s nice to meet you Nadia. Are you from around?” Making his tone sound gentle and not slurring his words was a real piece of work in his current state.

“I am sir. Native… of Gahfnar.” The woman crossed her arms over herself, in a protective manner..

“How interesting! How do you like it here?”

The woman frowned at that, as if she couldn’t understand why he was asking such a question.

“Respectfully, sir… do you expect the truth from me?” Nadia seemed confused, finally looking up at Aventurine.

It seemed that he forgot that he looked like one of them now. One of the rich guests with no morality who couldn’t care less about the people around. Someone who wanted to hear that the servants being used were deep down not good people and that the hotel was doing them a favour by giving them access to a job. They wished to justify such a truly unjust treatment so they wouldn’t feel bad about their exploitation.

“I… I understand how you feel.” He knew that feeling so well. It reminded Aventurine of not so great memories of when he was a slave servant himself. Some people were downright evil and enjoyed watching others suffer, but it was almost worse to hear people try and justify his mistreatment with some kind of excuse. “I’d love for you to tell me more about this place. Your true opinion matters to me.” 

He tried to appear soft, but for a second it was almost like he forgot how.

Then he realized his mask was slipping. Well, maybe this time he could let it. His act was not aimed at the regular staff. It was all for the rich aristocrats. Of course, this information would help his work but he also felt curious as to how the people were treated on this planet.

Looking around briefly, the gambler spotted a resting place in the hallway. It would be more comfortable to sit down instead of standing in the middle of the corridor. Perhaps it would help this woman feel more at ease as well.

“Come, let’s sit down.” He walked over, his coordination not cooperating much once again. He was relieved to see Nadia follow him quietly. 

Yet she didn’t sit down next to Aventurine. He knew why.

“You can sit down. I am not… we are equals.”

“I’m… not sure that it’s wise sir… if the Glasswings find that I’m not working right now…” A nervous look was still lingering on her face. there seemed to be a desire to speak about her life, but the fear and stress made her hesitant.

“You can tell who you are working for that Aventurine of the IPC asked for your help. You can trust me, they won’t do anything. You may even tell them to ask me in person if they wish. I’d gladly confirm it.” Aventurine assured, the confidence in his voice helping to convince her.

“… you are kind sir.” She sat down, to Aventurine’s great relief. “Kinder than most from the IPC. It has always been complicated here.”

The Stoneheart nodded, encouraging her to continue.

“Gahfnar is a beautiful planet. Sadly it’s… not quite liveable for us who are not apart of the organization. Sure, it’s a paradise here, but out there… the population is suffering. Most of the adults, like myself, work here. Not everyone has the privilege of being a Glasswing, but anyone can be a cleaning lady.” She looked at him timidly, her tone cautious. Once she saw that Aventurine wasn’t objecting her, she continued. “The Glasswings… have a bad reputation outside. They drain our little resources, employ us out of nothing but pity, and most viscously, they steal our teenagers. When they’re fourteen, they may officially be recruited by the organization. Who could refuse?  They offer you power, money and comfort. Many teens accept, thinking that they’ll be able to help their family afterwards. Without fail, they always get indoctrinated.”

This was obviously a sensitive topic for her. Her voice was fragile and a great despair could be seen in her eyes.

“They learn to only care for the organization and nothing else. But… it isn’t their fault. They don’t know much, and the Glasswings know everything. Knowledge… truly is power.” 

The small part of Aventurine who was still able to feel something was aching with sadness. He felt a tad more sensitive than usual. It was probably all of his alcohol messing with him again.

“I see… those are difficult conditions. I apologize.” He took a decent amount of credits out of his pocket and handed them to her. “I owe you this for speaking about such a personal subject. Thank you very much, this information is vital to me. The IPC… I will work to optimize the situation of Gahfnar. Thank you Nadia. If you need anything, come to me.”

She glared at him with round eyes, utterly surprised of such a gesture. Aventurine had no idea if she believed in his statement of wanting to fix things here, but she didn’t comment on it. She took the money, thanking him countless times. It was a confusing interaction for her, but it didn’t look like she regretted it. Then she left hurriedly, heading back to her duties.

Aventurine was exhausted. The walk back to the suite was long and painful. He couldn’t even truly reflect of the confessions he’d just heard. He could feel that he was on the verge of crashing, but the gambler powered through. He managed to enter the room somewhat quietly, which was a surprise with how clumsy he felt.

Too tired to do his skincare, he entered the bedroom to get his silk sleepwear set. He almost got a heart attack when he saw a completely immobile Ratio laying in the bed like a statue.

Aeons was he dead? Aventurine thought. Oh fuck fuck fuck.

He hurried to the doctor’s side, a tinge of fear gnawing at his insides. Without even thinking about the fact that it could wake him up, Aventurine placed two fingers on Ratio’s neck.

Oh thank Gaithra Triclops there’s a pulse. He sighed of relief, cupping his hand to the side of Ratio’s face. He was sleeping so still, it was terrifying. 

If the doctor was beautiful awake, his features were just as dazzling at night. His strong jawline, soft hair and long lashes made him look like a statue depicting a divine being. And Aventurine was the sinner underserving of his mercy. His stern expression had completely washed off, leaving behind a neutral, almost soft appearance. 

Aventurine should’ve pulled his hand away, but this moment felt too rare not to savour it. What a beautiful man Ratio was. Not only that, he was respectful, frank and intelligent. He was seriously a dream man. Whoever would have the chance to get in a relationship with him would be one lucky bastard.

No. No no. He should absolutely not be thinking of this. It was just another way to spiral down in a deep darkness of doom. 

He left the room to go to the bathroom, removing his very detailed outfit with a surprising ease. The soft and light feel of the satin fabric that his sleepwear set was made of on his skin was heavenly. With no further complications, he crashed onto the bed next to Ratio (who was still sleeping in a position too straight for a man like him) and in not even two seconds, Aventurine was off to nightmare land.

Ratio woke up with determination. The events of yesterday had been intense, but today he was ready to get serious about this whole ordeal. The little twisted game the puzzle master wanted to play was about to get serious. He slept rather adequately, at least well enough to restore his cognitive functions to a maximum. 

He was relieved to find Aventurine next to him, sleeping so close to the edge of the bed frame that he was about to fall off. Even asleep with his messy blond hair and his terrible posture, the gambler looked abnormally beautiful.

Ratio found it disturbing. How could a person be so pretty all the time? It wasn’t possible. Aventurine had to have a bad angle or a moment where he didn’t look perfect. The opposite wasn’t humanly possible.

At least he wouldn’t have to throw chalk at him for sleeping on the couch. He was glad the gambler listened to him.

Ratio got up in silence, hoping not to wake him up. The first thing he did was reaching for the envelope and take out the small card onto which the first clue was written. He reread it, making sure to engrave it in his mind.

See past what is fake. Create your own masquerade.

The words were rather simple, but someone with an intellect like Veritas Ratio’s knew that such a message went much beyond the mere direct meaning of words. The concept of “seeing past what is fake” could represent lies, deception or even the falsehood biased by his own sense of perspective. But it could also mean a literal illusion, an objet or an individual who weren’t what they seemed. 

The Doctor’s train of thought made his gaze wander inadvertently back to Aventurine. It was obvious to Ratio that there was more to the Stoneheart than his exuberant appearance and teasing persona; but the scholar had a feeling that the man next to him was much more complex than he knew. Their “fight” of last night confirmed the theory. As much as Ratio thought he understood the gambler, he had not seen such an outburst coming. In that case, who was Aventurine? Or rather, who was the man beyond that name?

Could this be related to this twisted game that Evander Winslow was playing? Surely not. He made it clear that he had some kind of plan for Aventurine. Ratio absolutely despised the implications coming with that statement. The Doctor thought that, for once, this could be resolved without the Stoneheart gambling his life away. Originally, this mission seemed tame, but it has now twisted into something far more risky. Especially for Aventurine. Ratio didn’t want him to be put in danger by a maniac. Of course, as Aventurine had blatantly stated last night, he was not weak and could very well protect himself, but Ratio couldn’t help but fear for him. He knew how reckless that damned gambler could be.

Aventurine stirred in his sleep, like he could hear Ratio’s concerns. His face scrunched up and his slumber no longer looked quite peaceful. Maybe he could sense Ratio standing there looking at him for far too long.

Enough of this then. Work was awaiting him. 

While getting ready, Ratio’s mind was running. The idea of creating “your own masquerade” was trickier to interpret than the rest. Perhaps it required him to put a facade of his own, or blend in somewhere. It was rare for him to go unnoticed, since Ratio’s personality and appearance were quite bold. It could then be seen as a masquerade to try and sneak around.  

One question remained in Ratio’s mind; What exactly was he searching for? The clue didn’t specify where it lead or for the matter, how to achieve said masquerade. Was the clue a way to reach the puzzle or an object that would potentially aid him in recovering his research? It was all incredibly vague. But even if this was complicated, the Doctor was determined to get to the end of this. He wouldn’t let the puzzle master win. The only way to know was to go look around. He made a mental list of things to examine. 

1. The organization’s functioning
2. The reputation of the hotel, both online and in person.
3. Objects who did not fit with the decor

This was certainly tedious work. Right, he should get breakfast before starting. His mind had to be nourished adequately after all. Walking into their kitchen area, Ratio realized that they hadn’t thought about ordering food for the room. No matter, Ratio hadn’t forgotten to bring his biologically modified apples. Now, a fool might think that a mere apple wasn’t sufficient to give the doctor all the nutrients a balanced meal required. Those simpletons were not aware that a few years ago, due to lack of time in his everyday schedule, Ratio had synthesized a fruit he could eat quickly that would get him a proper sustenance. By experimenting on an apple, he came up with a new type that had all the necessary nutrients. 

That problem was solved. He took one of the bright red fruits and prepared himself to leave the room before remembering something.

Ratio was almost certain that Aventurine would forget to eat a proper breakfast. He couldn’t have that. He noticed long ago that the gambler had trouble being consistent with his alimentation. As much as Ratio scolded him about it, it never seemed to stick. He would share his apples with the gambler, but their physiology was different, therefore it might not be adequate for Aventurine. Sighing, he walked over to the phone on the counter. He ordered more than enough food via room service for Aventurine, unsure of his personal taste. At least Ratio would be sure he didn’t forget. He wrote a note saying;

Out to get my research.

Do me a favour and eat adequately.

-Ratio

Off to work then. He made his way down to the lobby but not without his alabaster head this time. Today, it was crucial that he was not bothered by idiots. His mind had to be clear in order to focus properly. The lobby was rather quiet this early in the morning, which was definitely pleasant.

How was he going to investigate the Glasswings without seeming suspicious? It wasn’t like he could simply ask. He was much too blunt to be effective at getting information. Aventurine had a true talent for it, he was charismatic and charming. He made his questions sound flatteries and his tone was so smooth that you never felt like you were giving away too much. Ratio was, sadly, not blessed with such an ability. In some cases, when he was asking questions, people felt like they were getting interrogated. Even his own students feared to answer him sometimes, even if the question was rhetorical. 

Perhaps he could begin with a thorough internet search. It was crucial to understand the outside view of the hotel. That way he could make a fair comparison and hopefully find something of interest. A cafe would be a great place to do this. He could even examine the baristas and their behaviours to see if there was anything strange and maybe manage to slip in a few questions. 

It did not take him long to find the nearest coffee shop on a map of the hotel.  Once he successfully made his way there, he was welcomed in by a quaint atmosphere, contrasting the neat and pristine look of the rest of the hotel. It was obvious that the desired ambiance was casual, relaxed and peaceful. 

This would do.

Ratio settled by a window on a small table for two. The cafe wasn’t too busy, only filled with a few people. He took his laptop out of it’s case and was unsurprised of the incredible amount of emails filling his inbox. He decided to sift through them quickly before beginning.

Most of it could wait until he came back, like test results that he didn’t have time to analyze presently. There was also fan mail (as always) that went straight into his trash and a few messages from his students asking him for a correction sheet for his philosophy course. There seemed to have been a problem with the file where the professor replacing him couldn’t access it. He quickly took care of it, sending the right documents to his students and his substitute. In this sea of nonsense that had a talent to annoy him a bit, one particular email stood out.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Object: your engagement???

Yo prof,

  I know you’re out on some business for the IG or something like that but this matter is so important that I just had to reach out. Is it actually true that you’re ENGAGED?! I didn’t believe it at first since you know how the gossip can go at UVP but then my friend showed me this article that confirmed it. As you always say, truth is the most important thing when it comes to academics so I wanted to verify the accuracy of the source (don’t be afraid to give me a few points on my next test for this incredible initiative). 

Like seriously. SINCE WHEN? And if it is true, why haven’t you brought him around? I’m sure everyone would love to meet the stern Dr. Ratio’s partner. And about him, I gotta say it’s crazy to me that he’s your type. I’ve stalked Aventurine of Stratagems on social media (as a good researcher does) and he seems so laid back and festive and cool. How do you guys get along? I mean don’t get me wrong he’s really pretty I’m just curious as to how the hell you tolerate him. We can barely breathe too hard in class but you’re getting engaged to a shiny IPC business man? You surprise me prof. Anywho, I hope you’re having a good trip and I do hope you answer with your sincere facts so that I may finish my research.

Please don’t fail me I’m just showing my research potential here. I think the UVP journal could benefit of an article on this matter.

Best regards,

Derek Splint

What and utter lack of decorum! The sheer level of audacity in this email was astronomical. Not only was this message completely invasive and unprofessional, it was poorly written too. Exasperation mixed with a bit of indignation made the doctor huff. The news sure spread fast. This student did mention an article, but even if it was intriguing, he was not going to read it. Ratio absolutely did not care about what people thought of this engagement, fake or reality.

Complete nonsense, Ratio thought, sighing. If he was going to do this, he needed a coffee. 

Leaving his belongings on the table, he walked towards the counter in the front. The drink menu was atrocious, full of insanity like a crumble apple oat shaken maple espresso. Luckily, he knew how to navigate such nonsense since all the coffee shops on Veritas Prime had adopted this kind of idiocy. He ordered a normal double espresso, noting quickly that none of the employees were Glasswings. What a shame, his plan to observed them had to be abandoned as well.

Once he got his coffee,  the true work began. Two long hours of intense internet research ensued, where Ratio picked apart everything he could find about this hotel and noted it down in his notebook. He even checked all the IPC files on the matter. He looked into the management, the marketing, the sales exchanges, the communications, the history and many many more things. The hotel reviews were impeccable. Perfect five stars, though it could mean that the Glasswings deleted every negative review. But even on social media, all the feedback was good and people were detailing their perfect stay with no inconveniences. From the IPC files he learnt that there was currently five founders, one of them being Evander Winslow.  They were rarely seen, even less the puzzle master. There was a possibility that he wasn’t even on Gahfnar at the moment. 

And yet he seemed to always have eyes on Ratio…  which was something that bothered him greatly.

After such a long time doing research, his brain needed a break. Ratio focused his attention to the window and took a minute to admire the outside. The powder blue sky blended into a light turquoise in the horizon. Fluffy white clouds were hovering around slowly. One in particular caught the doctors eye, in the left upper corner of the window. It’s shape resembled a spade, like those Aventurine adorned all the time. Even while the doctor was alone, the gambler was seemingly haunting Ratio.

Well this research was ineffective. He wasn’t much more advanced than earlier. It was time to switch strategies. Maybe Aventurine had awoken and knew more about the Glasswings than him or had access to more documents. Returning to the room seemed to be the best option. 

Packing his things, he tried to think of other things he could investigate. Giving up was in no way an option. It wasn’t like he had something to prove it was simply that… this problem needed fixing. He has nothing to prove. At all. He was… a recognized researcher with eight doctorates. Yet the Genius Society still did not want him.

He wasn’t even certain that Aventurine would still be in the suite. He surely had some meetings to attend or things of the sort, but it wouldn’t hurt to check.

Since the hotel was so massive, getting from one end to another took around ten minutes. He entered the room after that long walk, finally taking off his alabaster head. The sight of a clean kitchen counter welcomed him, assuring him that Aventurine had eaten. Splendid. Although he quickly realized that the blond was no longer around. What a shame. He should have texted before coming all this way. 

He went towards the bedroom to tidy up but was pleasantly welcomed by the sight of a made bed and a clean room. The only thing was that the air felt a bit stuffy. Airing out would be great, that said there seemed to be no way to open the windows. Strange.

Oh well. He could do without. He sent a quick text message to Aventurine telling him to come find him once he was finished with whatever he was doing. In the meantime, maybe rereading his notes in a new environment would help him find a new perspective. What angle could he see this from this time?

Reaching in his bag for his notebook, he was frustratingly met with the absence of it. Aeons had he left it behind on accident? How incredibly annoying. It was a habit of his to think too hard about something and be faulted by his autopilot. 

It seemed Ratio had no choice but to head back downstairs and hope that it was still in place. That notebook didn’t just contain the information he collected. There was also a few lesson plans and multiple other data he collected in the past. It would be quite disastrous if someone had taken it.

Trying not to let the frustration get to him, he stomped out of the room and walked the entire trajectory all the way back to the cafe. Strangely enough, it felt much longer this time. 

Once he arrived, he stormed towards the table he sat at, happily noticing that no one was sitting there. To his even greater relief, the small purple leather notebook was still on the corner of the table. Thank Nous, he wouldn’t have to start over all his research. He should’ve probably started taking digital notes by now, but something about writing down the words helped them stick in his mind. He would definitely invent a device to translate them all into his computer after today though. 

Taking back the notebook in his hands, he found himself facing the window. Once again, something caught his eye. Strange… the spade shaped cloud was still hovering in the exact same place as earlier. It was as if it hadn’t moved at all. It had at least been half an hour, it was impossible for this cloud to be exactly at the same spot. Many planets were different, but Ratio had looked at the weather here and this was simply impossible. At this realization, he remembered that the window in the suite strangely couldn’t open.

And then, after looking at it for about a few more seconds, it all clicked. A wild hypothesis appeared in the Genius’s mind.

See beyond what is fake.

The windows were fake.

Aventurine awoke gasping, shaken to his core. His heart was still racing of a scene he already didn’t remember. Those foul nightmares never let him rest. It was almost impossible for him to have a good night of sleep. For various reasons related to his past, he was a very light sleeper and when he did find a moment of slumber, all it did was torment him further.

 At least he was awake now and he could shove the memories at the back of his mind. He looked around, feeling slightly disoriented. The bed next to him was empty, which was a relief. Aventurine would’ve been embarrassed if Ratio saw him practically leap out of the bed due to his nightmares. The room was quite illuminated. How long had he slept? 

Reaching for his phone, the first thing he saw was a notification from Topaz. He clicked on the message quickly.

Topaz

Hey congrats on your engagement to Ratio!  

The message was followed by a link to an article titled “Stoneheart Aventurine and Esteemed Doctor Veritas Ratio are newly engaged; an inside on some of the IPC’s most juicy gossip!”

How ridiculous. Aventurine couldn’t help but chuckle. He typed a message back to topaz.

Aventurine

The news spread that fast huh?

Since his fellow Stoneheart was already online, a response wasn’t long to get.

Topaz

You know it! And the Ratio fanbase is really pissed. Clearly they don’t deserve him! Unlike you, his fiancéeeeee 

Aventurine  

I knew you’d tease me for this

It’s JUST for this mission nothing more

Topaz

Uh huh keep telling yourself that

You’re still ok out there?

That serious message brought Aventurine back to reality. One that did not consist of joking around with his best friend. One where he had to successfully take back a planet without the help of Jade for the first time in a while. 

Aventurine

Yeah it’s all good, I’ve got this.

Closing his phone, Aventurine got up and stretched. He could feel the after effects of the alcohol he drank yesterday, his head slightly pounding. Nothing a good painkiller or two wouldn’t defeat. He strolled towards the bathroom adjacent to the bedroom. 

After a nice shower to freshen up and some skincare, he felt much more energized and awake. Before picking out his outfit, he did a quick tour of the suite to see if Ratio was around. They hadn’t really talked after yesterday’s… incident, so Aventurine hadn't been able to see if there was any bitterness lingering. 

When he stepped in the kitchen, a delightful aroma of cooked bacon and fresh bread reached him. It made Aventurine realize that he was, in fact, very hungry. For him, hunger was hard to recognize since he was so used to starving before. 

He approached the counter where about five different plates concealed with a metal cover to keep the food hot. How did this get here? 

As he was wondering about that, he noticed a small paper on the corner of the counter. He took it, reading the message.

Out to get my research.

Do me a favour and eat adequately.

-Ratio

Of course, the medical doctor part of Ratio would make sure he remembered to eat. Aeons how did he manage to be so… impersonally caring? It felt strange to know that Ratio had even noticed that forgetting meals were a habit of his. It wasn’t like he was intentionally starving himself. He was just often forgetful about it. 

But he had to admit, this was nice. Aventurine revealed to himself the five plates, each one containing a different type of breakfast. Gaithra Triclops that was a lot of food. Amused, he snapped a picture of it with the note and sent it to Topaz.

Aventurine

[1 attachment]

Look at how nice my fiancé is treating me  

Topaz

Oh wooow that message is Ratio slang for “here’s some food my beautiful angel please enjoy it I'm so madly in love with you let’s run away together”

Aventurine

You’re so ridiculous

Aventurine smiled, turning back to his food. He had a good bond with Topaz and he couldn’t be happier about it. It was nice to have a friend in a business as heartless as the IPC. 

He ended up choosing a classic breakfast, with eggs, bacon and a toast. He savoured it while scrolling on the internet and checking on his investments. Everything was stagnant for now. That was a good thing since he was quite busy currently.

Once finished with his meal, he contemplated what the hell he was going to do with all those leftovers. Even if he wasn’t as sensitive about it anymore, there was always a physical reaction of… anguish when someone threw away perfectly good food. It was a habit he’d try very hard to get rid of, but as they say, old habits die hard.

Maybe he could store the plates in the refrigerator. He had no idea if they’d go stale or something of the sort but it was his best option. 

He had a meeting with one of the cofounders today, a certain Morgana Larson. It was to discuss what the IPC would like and what they’d be ready to give. It was a rather mundane task, since Aventurine was used to much grander schemes. But it was also a part of his job, not matter how boring it was. He had to make sure that the IPC got the most out of this mission. The last thing he wanted was to disappoint Jade, who entrusted him with this task. 

After dressing nicely and feeling fully ready, he headed out of the suite for the meeting.

The Glasswing was late. How incredibly unprofessional. Aventurine had dealt with many business men in the past. It was sort of a universal code that being late to a meeting was a big misstep. 

No matter, he didn’t have anything other to do anyways. Still, he wanted to make sure that as an IPC diplomat, he wasn’t being disrespected. He had to present himself as someone serious who would not let the Glasswings get away with this type of behaviour.

He was sitting at a round table on a swivelling leather chair. The decor of the room was quite banal, with only a potted plant here and there to remove the air of absolute dullness. Even then, they didn’t work quite well since Aventurine was incredibly bored. He had been welcomed to the reunion room by a Glasswing employee who assured him the founder wouldn’t be long. It had now been almost twenty minutes.

The Stoneheart despised wasting his time. 

As that thought crossed his mind, the sound of the door opening reached him. He turned his head, met with the sight of a tall woman with curly light red hair and a stern face. Finally.

“My apologies Mr. Aventurine, I had to take care of a last minute matter. It was far from my intention to make you wait such a time. Thank you for your patience.” The woman’s voice was far kinder than her expression. 

She walked around the table and placed herself across of him. The usual shiny glass butterfly pinned on her black vest was bigger than on the other employees he’d come across. 

“All is forgiven, but I do hope that our meetings can be seen as I priority next time. I certainly wish that we can maintain an amicable partnership while discussing the future of this beautiful planet. The IPC wishes the best for everyone involved, naturally.” Business talk was one of Aventurine’s only talent. 

“Of course, we do not doubt the IPC’s good faith. The Glasswings wish to find a common ground that will better the future of our hotel. On this note, I am wondering exactly what the corporation is interested in. Gahfnar is not known for its great resources, therefore we have assumed that the hotel is the point of interest. Is that so?”

It was true that this planet did not have many useful things, but there was one aspect that the IPC desperately wanted. The soil and rocks found here could be crushed and chemically modified to create nuclear reactions that were easy to harvest. Put simply, it would allow the IPC to make nuclear weapons. A large quantity of it. The value of this soil was very high since it was rare, but this planet had loads of it. Of course, it would be stupid to reveal such a thing. 

“The Chrysalide does pique the interest of the IPC. It is a great economical investment after all since it is quite praised in the cosmos. However, we would even be willing to help expand this empire to the rest of your planet. We could help bring civilization to a new level with our resources.” 

Aventurine explained in detail that the help of the IPC would be greatly positive. The meeting ended up lasting almost an hour, yet not much negotiations were done. But he had time, his stay at the hotel had only begun. It was a good thing to be able to tell what position the Glasswings held. They didn’t seem very reluctant, but perhaps a bit reserved. He would have to warm them to the idea of the IPC taking care of all the hard work. Usually it wasn’t too hard.

“Your proposals are quite interesting indeed Mr. Aventurine. I will share them with my fellow founders. If I’m not mistaken you should be meeting with them sooner than later. I’m sure we can all agree to a safe future for Gahfnar.”

“Ah yes, about your cofounders… I seem to have not been scheduled to meet the infamous Puzzlemaster, Evander Winslow. I was wondering if that could be arranged, since he is quite influential on this matter after all.”

The woman hummed, tilting her head.

“Evander is quite busy. Many crisis require his intellect, however I’m certain he’d accept to meet with our very first IPC ambassador. Especially since he was the one to take such an initiative. I’ll schedule something with him, I shall let you know once I have news.” She got up of her seat. “If that is all, I have other matters to attend. It was a pleasure to meet you Mr. Aventurine. If you need anything, do not hesitate to contact me.”

Aventurine thanked her and stepped out. He was satisfied to hear that he might get a chance to meet Evander Winslow. He did find the man quite intriguing but he’d rather meet him in a… controlled environment. Turns out this meeting had been quite useful. 

Stretching his neck lightly, he reached for his phone. He had a message from Ratio asking him to join him urgently. Aeons what did the doctor find? The gambler thought.

Whatever it was, it seemed important so he began walking towards their suite. He wasn’t too far so the walk was brief.

While he was walking, he made sure to review and analyze the meeting he just had in great details. After time, he acquired a real talent for reading people. The woman had been incredibly neutral though. At some points, Aventurine even had the impression that she had no idea what he was talking about. How strange. Perhaps some information was held back by the puzzle master. He really had to meet or get closer to him. He seemed to hold all the keys and the Stoneheart disliked being disadvantaged. He was starting to feel… a little bit anxious. But of course, it would all work out in the end like it always did.

He turned a corner and was met with a familiar face. 

“Oh! Why hello there Nadia. We meet again!” He smiled softly at the woman, who looked at him in surprise.

“… Mister Aventurine. How… how are you?” She seemed much more relaxed than last night, yet still a bit clumsy. Maybe their conversation of yesterday had helped her feel more at ease.

“I am quite well, what about you? I certainly hope your bosses didn’t give you trouble for yesterday!”

“Oh, no you were right. Since it involved you, they let me return to work with no problem. I am… grateful.” She looked down, her arms crossed against her chest.

“I’m happy to hear that! Have you been here all night?” He questioned after spotting the dark circles under her eyes.

“I work from midnight to noon sir. Do you… need anything? I owe it to you.” 

Those were cruelly long hours. The poor woman was overworked and it showed. Perhaps he could ask around about the work hours tonight at the casino. He was curious to see what excuse the mighty Glasswings had for this.

“No not at all, but I do hope that your day will go well. You work very hard. Remember, if you need a helping hand, I am always here.” Aventurine was trying to keep his tone generous and safe. It was, strangely, much harder than being flirty or entertaining. 

“You… are too kind sir. I wish you a great day.” For the first time, she offered him a timid smile. “I must return to work, I hope to see you later Mister Aventurine.”

Then she was off as quickly as she came. It looked like she was starting to warm up to Aventurine. It made him a bit happy, to be seen as something else than an IPC scumbag for once. Another part of him was revolted by how poorly she seemed to be treated. When he’d take back this planet, he would ask the corporation to add regulations on work hours. 

You have to take it back first, though.  

After a small few minutes walk, he arrived front of the double doors leading to his suite. He fumbled in his pocket for the key and heard a strange noise coming from the doors. He froze for a second, unsure of what was going on. 

Then it happened again, a sort of metallic bang. It was followed by a grunt of… frustration? What the hell was happening? Was Ratio fighting someone? 

Cautiously, Aventurine unlocked the door and pushed it open. His every steps were slow and quiet. There was nothing in the entry way, and the living room was clear as well. There was another noise but quieter this time. Passing the empty kitchen, the gambler wandered towards the bedroom. The sight that welcomed him was… confusing.

Ratio was laying down on his stomach, holding a strange metal tool and hitting a small box at the corner of the bedroom windows.

“Ratio… what the hell are you doing?”

Chapter Text

“Ratio… what the hell are you doing?”

Surprised by the sound of the gambler’s voice, Ratio quickly tried to lift his head. This was not a good idea as he ended up smacking the top of his head into the underside of the window. He let out a sound, not quite a scream and not quite a hiss but a strange mix of both. The pain reverberated in his skull, his vision getting blurry for a few seconds. This caused a dizzying sensation as Ratio tried to move.

What was happening again? He was not certain. All he could think of was this painful sensation he was afflicted with. His mind felt foggy

“Oh that’s not good.” Aventurine rushed closer, getting down to Ratio’s level. 

The doctor managed to sit up safely, struggling to regain his vision. He could still feel the pain in his head. He squinted at Aventurine, trying to focus on his pretty face. He opened his mouth to talk but found himself confused as to what he intended on saying.

“Hey Ratio.” The blond slid one of his hands in the doctor’s hair, caressing the back of his head softly. “Ratio look at me.” 

Looking at Aventurine. Yes, that would be most optimal. He could manage that. Especially with the soothing feeling of the gambler’s hand in his hair. He blinked a few times, finally clarifying the blond’s features.

Then it was like his mind clicked back to normal. 

“My apologies gambler, it seems I have… dissociated for the last few seconds.” Back to true consciousness, he now realized how incredibly close Aventurine was. The combination of this and the fact that he had a hand in his hair made Ratio swallow nervously. He looked away, trying to hide that this proximity felt nice. 

“You scared me for a second Doc!” He removed his hand and Ratio immediately missed the contact. “I’m glad you’re okay, you can’t go hurting that pretty head of yours.”

A flirty sentence followed by one of Aventurine’s signature teasing smiles. For fucks sake Ratio was blushing again. What was it with the gambler and trying to fluster him?! This was absolutely unacceptable from the genius! He could not let Aventurine get under his skin! 

He backed up a little bit, trying to put some space between him and this charming man before he could do something that his ego would regret.

“I had not heard you enter. I was… focused on… a theory that I would highly like to continue researching.” Hyperfocused would be a more fitting name, but the Stoneheart didn’t need to know that.

“That’s great Ratio, but I think you should take a little break. You just hit your head pretty hard, you have to sit down for a bit.” Aventurine’s eyes held a hint of worry in them.

It was true that he still felt a little… off, but that would not stop him from continuing his investigation. He was on a great streak of intellect and wished it to be uninterrupted.

“I assure you that I feel more than capable to continue working.” Ratio reached for his tool, only to stop because of Aventurine’s piercing disapproving stare.

“Oh so when I tend to forget breakfast it’s please take care of yourself and sending me twenty five meals but when you hit your head violently you can just continue whatever you were doing?” Aventurine grabbed the doctor’s shoulder with an astonishing strength, practically dragging him towards the living room. “Bullshit.”

“I..” Ratio scrambled onto his feet, not really resisting the gambler’s move. He sighed loudly. “I am a medical and a psychological doctor and I diagnose myself as fine.” 

The Stoneheart didn’t answer, pushing him down onto the couch. He then walked towards the kitchen while Ratio was trying to hide that he still felt a bit dizzy.

“Why don’t you tell me what you found while you recuperate?” Aventurine placed a glass of water in front of the doctor. “It seemed quite urgent in your text message.”

“Yes it is urgent which is why I-“ The blond sat down on the sofa next to Ratio, which caught him off guard. He expected the other man to sit across of him or something of the sort. It wasn’t an issue of lack of space since there were three other sofas in the room. Having him so close could be dangerous for Ratio’s poor ego. Damn it why was he so on edge today?

“You were saying?” Asked Aventurine, who seemingly had no idea that the little distance between the two men made Ratio’s heartbeat quicken ever so slightly. Any slight change of position could lead to contact which the doctor couldn’t handle. He had slightly freaked out at just having the gambler’s hand in his hair which felt really nice, so who knew how he would react at any more closeness?

Wait, no stop it Veritas, he scolded himself. This is simply a very attractive colleague sitting next to you. This is not a problem, get it together for Nous’s sake!

“Well, I suppose the time would be right to inform you that yesterday evening I received a letter from the Puzzlemaster.” Ratio took a sip of water to calm his nerves (who had no right to be this bothered in the first place). “He has given me a clue that is supposed to aid me in retrieving my research. Granted, I cannot say that my trust in Evander Winslow is high. Although perhaps if I play his little game, this will be over soon enough.” 

“He sent you a letter? How odd. He seems a bit strange…” Aventurine frowned. “What was his clue?”

“I was getting to that.” Ratio replied, his tone sharper than he had intended it being. He took the clue out of his pocket and handed it to the blond. “I’m almost certain that this means the windows are fake somehow. That’s what I was investigating when you got here. There’s a strange metal contraption at the bottom of every window therefore I thought that might’ve been the source of the fake image.”

“Oh, so that’s what you were doing.” Aventurine’s eyes skimmed over the words, his face scrunching up slightly. “That’s an interesting theory. If you’re right…”

The blond trailed off, pensive. Ratio rarely got to see the gambler’s face neutral or reflective. It was usually decorated with that smug, flirty expression that felt almost natural for him at this point. A part of Ratio liked this better. Since he was closer than usual, he could see every little detail. He liked seeing the the thoughts swirl around in Aventurine’s eyes, the way his fingers fiddled while he reflected. Ratio was no fool; he knew that the gambler was actually quite intelligent. It was interesting to see his mind in action.

“Is something wrong?” Aventurine asked, noticing the way Ratio was staring him down.

“I- no I… I was simply…” The genius scrambled to find an excuse, refusing to admit that he found Aventurine entrancing. “Wondering if you wanted to finish that thought. Well, I should go back to my research then.” 

Once again, he was stopped in his stride by Aventurine’s bright eyes pinning him to the couch.

“Careful doc, don’t let him get to your head. You look tense.” The gambler warned him.

And Ratio ignored that advice, rushing back towards the window. He wished to get this over with quickly. Aventurine followed behind him, oddly quiet. Something felt… wrong with him. As that thought crossed his mind, Ratio stopped abruptly, causing the gambler to bump into him

“Are you okay Ratio?” The blond asked, the worry in his voice more evident. Ratio turned around, eyeing him down.

“Are you? You’re unusually quiet.”

A half-smile appeared on the blond’s face, his usual expression coming back to him.

“I’m just reflecting. Aren’t you the one who always says I should use my brain more often?” 

Touché. Although Ratio still had the impression that Aventurine might know more than he was saying. Or perhaps he was simply not used to being in his presence for a long period. It could he affecting his judgment.

“That would be true, but if you have informations that could aid me I would prefer  you share them.” The doctor squinted, doubt creeping inside of him.

Realistically, would Aventurine tell him everything? It wouldn’t be rare for him to have an exuberant and utterly unnecessary plan of some sort. Did he trust Ratio? Ratio trusted him with many things, but he could not tell wether that trust was reciprocated. There might’ve been more layers to this situation than the doctor was aware of. That would put him at a great disadvantage as he had a research to retrieve.

“I would if I did, don’t you know that? I haven’t learned anything that you don’t already know.” The gambler frowned, a look of confusion on his face. “Why are you so on edge Ratio? Did I do something wrong?”

“I am simply trying to make sure that we have the same level of information. Are you completely certain that you’re not withholding anything from me?” It wasn’t so hard to understand, was it? Ratio thought he was being fairly clear. It wasn’t a problem with the gambler, he was just trying to understand.

“Oh what, you think I’m lying?” Aventurine took a step foreword, a strange glint in his eyes that the doctor could not recognize. “I thought you were a man without prejudice.” 

It seemed Ratio hadn’t been as clear as he thought since he got incredibly misunderstood. He didn’t think Aventurine was lying because he was Avgin, it was but a consequence of the gambler’s personality.

“You misunderstood me. That is not what I meant, I apologize. I trust you, Aventurine, but I am not certain that you feel the same way about me.” He tried to explain, tentatively reaching forward.

“Of course I trust you Ratio, I thought you knew it! Why wouldn’t I? You’re one of the only person that I enjoy working with. And I’m not very smart but I’m not stupid enough to keep information from you.” The gambler drew backwards.

Ratio could see that his words had stung. A pinch of guilt hit him, which was quite unusual. He was never afraid to speak his mind, but this encounter didn’t feel… necessary at all. He wasn’t even completely sure of why he was asking such questions. Did it matter if Aventurine trusted him? It was a relief to hear that he did, but even if his answer would’ve differed, it changed nothing with the current situation he was focused on. Ratio found himself utterly confused at his brain, not recognizing the way he reacted. 

“This… I do not understand why I… am fixated on such a thing. I don’t… quite feel like myself.” The doctor frowned, clumsily trying to apologize. “This was completely unnecessary to my goal, I apologize for any discomfort I might’ve caused.”

He paused, observing the gambler. Someone who didn’t know Aventurine could have not detected his feelings in any way at this moment, but Ratio knew better. He saw through the relaxed posture, through the tense smile and through the casual tone he used to say his words. Ratio saw the sharpness in his gaze and heard the self deprecating comments. Which then reminded him that Aventurine had called himself stupid.

Oh, that would absolutely not do. 

“Although I need you to know that you are absolutely not inferior in terms of knowledge. Quite frankly, your intellect is much appreciated. I would like not to hear you call yourself not so smart again.”

To those words, Aventurine’s expression became visibly surprised.

“What? You don’t seriously think I’m smart.” The gambler huffed a laugh. “You’re spouting nonsense doc, now I’m really worried for you head.”

“Perhaps that entire thing about trust was nonsense, but I do truly mean this. Do you not believe in your intelligence?”

“I mean, I’m aware that I’m not the biggest idiot out there but I’m definitely not on your level.” Aventurine scoffed.

“That would be quite hard, given that I do possess eight doctorates, but the care, thought and attention you put into your plans is in no way negligible. Why do you believe that I tolerate working with you?”

Aventurine chuckled, his eyes gaining that tiny spark of malice that appeared when he was teasing. It was fascinating to see how fast his mood could change.

“I must say, it’s quite an honour to be called not too stupid by the incredible Genius Veritas Ratio!” The gambler started walking towards the bedroom. “Come on, I’m letting you finish whatever you were doing but after that it’s Stoneheart mandated break! There’s plenty activities we could do, like checking out the pool or…”

“I would rather not.” Ratio exclaimed quickly, praying that Aventurine wouldn’t turn around and notice his blush. Although, he could almost feel Aventurine’s smile.

“Oh, you don’t wanna show me that nice chest of yours?” He teased, clearly amused.

Which, of course, caused Ratio to accidentally summon his alabaster head. Aeons Aventurine had to stop being so flirty or he would not make it out of his trip! How could he just say such things, so casually? Was he simply unaware of how flustered it made the doctor? Or did he enjoy it?

“Please keep quiet gambler.” He muttered as he entered the bedroom. 

Right, there was a task he needed to accomplish. Damned be that gambler, but he did help Ratio get out of his state of hyper focus. Now, as he looked at the strange metal box from another angle, he noticed a small latch into the side of it. Wasting no time, he took his tool and hurried towards it. Aventurine sat down next to him, legs crossed. 

As he worked, he could sense the gambler’s eyes on him. He tried not to focus on it, as it would inadvertently distract him from his task once more. How would he survive two weeks with him? They’d been here for barely two days and Ratio had already been more flustered than any other time in his life. Why, oh why did Aventurine have that power over him? He just had to be tolerable and incredibly charming at the same time. It was as if faith had schemed to make his most endurable business partner also his most attractive. 

Aventurine was also incredibly hard to read. It was decently difficult for Ratio to do so and he knew Aventurine somewhat well. Normal people simply had no chance at deciphering the enigma that was this gambler. Ratio found it quite interesting to watch him mask his emotions and to try to notice the little details that could lead him to an answer. 

All these thoughts swirled in his head while he worked on this machine. After a short while, he succeeded at opening up the box. Ratio felt the familiar surge of excitement that came with an academic success. Finally he could verify his theory and prove Evander Winslow wrong.

The inside of the box was filled with various small wires that were all connected to a metal cylinder.

“Careful doc, don’t blow the place up.” Aventurine warned, half serious. 

“I believe you’ve said that you trust me, is that not right?” Ratio replied, analyzing the situation.

Yes, there seemed to be electrical current coming in but that did not always indicate a bomb. This would likely not blow up, but perhaps cause a few sparks. This cylinder seemed to be the receiver of the energy, so removing it should cause some sort of reaction.

Ratio turned back towards the windows, inspecting the blue sky before roughly pulling on the cylinder to disconnect it.

Before his very eyes, there was a glitch on the large windows and that beautiful blue sky disappeared to reveal a bright red sky with streaks of orange. 

Aventurine’s eyes widened as the sky showed its true appearance before him. Curious and a bit appalled, he got closer to Ratio. The doctor yelled a small “ha!” Before scrambling to his feet to admire the true Gahfnar. The sky was of truly beautiful colours, looking like an eternal sunset. It reminded him of Ratio’s eyes. They could now see the roofs of the shops that where hidden before. Even further in the horizon, tall and rocky mountains stretched high and wide. What a familiar sight.

The gambler turned back to Ratio, who was still inspecting the outside. His eyes were glimmering with the pride of his discovery. It gave him a charming look, full of passion and enthusiasm. It was almost as enjoyable to see as his flustered face.

If there was one thing in this world that Aventurine liked, it was teasing Ratio. He loved to see how far he could push before being met with that plaster head. How amusing that a genius as eccentric as him couldn’t even handle a bit of flirting. It wasn’t like Ratio particularly liked him either.

To be quite honest, Aventurine was still worried for his head. Not really because he hit himself, but because it was terribly obvious that the puzzlemaster was getting under his skin. Ratio wasn’t one to put his health after his work, yet he barely wanted to move away from his task. He did not hide his true feelings, yet suddenly he seemed to doubt Aventurine, when that was never mentioned before. Perhaps that was the gambler’s fault though, who had blindly assumed that Ratio would know of his trust. 

He was right to doubt; Aventurine was a fraud. A liar in many different aspects of his life. A con artist even. It was only natural to have a distrust for him, or to assume that he might be scheming in the background. Perhaps he’d been a bit rough with the doctor back then, but it truly did surprise him. What was more surprising though was Ratio’s opinion on his intellect. The last thing he expected was for him to receive praise for his schemes. Maybe that was why Ratio never wore his alabaster head around him, unless Aventurine was messing with him. Still, it was hard to believe.

Communication was surely hard with these two. They had to work on that if they were gonna last these two weeks without hating each other. Aventurine didn’t think he could hate his favourite doctor, but he didn’t want Ratio to hate him more than he already did.

“Well Ratio, I must say this is an astonishing find.” He contemplated the planet once more before a knock at the door surprised him. “Huh, strange. I’ll go see who it is.”

“Yes go do that, I’ll inspect this thing.” Ratio answered, waving the cylinder around.

Aventurine sighed quietly. Apparently Ratio wasn’t done being obsessed with this damn clue. After he answered the door, he’d have to find a way to distract the doctor. He would surely have a stress headache otherwise.

When Aventurine opened the door, he was met with a familiar face.

“Oh! Hello Nadia. What can I help you with?” He smiled at the woman, who still seemed as nervous as ever.

“Hello Mister Aventurine. I have a… message for you. Or rather for your… partner.” Nadia held out a sparkling envelope in front of her, a slightly worried look on her face. “It’s from… well, you’ll see.” 

“Ah, I see yes. I’ll give it to him, thank you very much! Would you like to come in?” He suggested, taking ahold of the envelope.

“I cannot, my apologies. I…hope that you both have a good day, though.” She answered, looking around as if she was scared to be seen.

“Thank you very much, you as well my friend!” Once she was off, Aventurine’s smile dropped. He disliked heavily that the Puzzlemaster had used her to deliver this message. He was clearly trying to tell them that they were watched.

“Who was it?” Ratio’s voice surprised Aventurine. He turned back to him and smiled flatly.

“It was a friend I made last night. She came to deliver your next clue.” He waved the envelope around carelessly. He was starting to get annoyed by their host.

“Oh that absolute idiot!” Ratio exclaimed, mirroring Aventurine’s thoughts. He walked closer, looking extremely displeased. “Evander Winslow is starting to get on my nerves.”

Ratio opened his hand, waiting for the gambler to give him the envelope. Aventurine tilted his head in response.

“And why should I give it to you? Didn’t I say it was Stoneheart mandated break?” He smiled cockily, feeling a bit malicious. His meeting earlier had bored him, so he wanted to have a little fun.

“Gambler don’t be like this, give it to me.” Ratio snarled in response, taking a step closer to Aventurine. It wasn’t threatening at all.

“Nope!” He smacked Ratio’s head with the envelope, pulling it away quickly as Ratio swooshed to take it. “Bet I’m faster than you.”

“This is not a game Aventurine, I need that envelope!” Ratio seemed more annoyed than angry, which was a good sign. Obviously, Aventurine wouldn’t purposely make him angry, he just wanted to mess with him a bit. It would help the doctor regain control on his obsession with proving the Puzzlemaster wrong by distracting him.

Ratio reached towards Aventurine’s hand, trying to take the letter out of his grasp. The blond was indeed faster as he backed up and moved to the side.

“Oh come on, you’re gonna have to try harder than that!” He snickered, waving the envelope tauntingly. It was almost like provoking a bull with a red flag. 

Aventurine could see it in Ratio’s gaze when he decided to give into the game. It was like watching a computer turn on. He held the letter over his head, making it a somewhat easy target for Ratio since he was taller. 

A thrilling sensation of adrenaline shot through him as Ratio launched back towards him. With an astonishing speed and agility that he previously used to survive, Aventurine dashed away and leaped over the heart-shaped couch, landing safely on the other side.

“Aeons Aventurine how did you do that?” Ratio asked, visibly surprised. Though it didn’t stop him in his stride as he quickly made his way closer.

“What, I don’t strike you as athletic? I’ve been running my whole life, by the way!” Well, that was a bit dark. Aventurine had let it slip out on accident. Hopefully it would sound innocent enough.

Ratio was now dangerously close, the ambition in his eyes evident. He was looming over Aventurine, hands ready to catch the envelope that the gambler was hiding behind his back.

“Speed is quite important indeed, but now I’ve got you trapped.” Ratio smiled victoriously.

Huh? What did he mean? 

Aventurine took a step back by instinct, forgetting that there was a couch behind him. His legs entered in contact with it which caused him to trip, accidentally hooking his foot on Ratio’s leg, sending them both plummeting down onto the sofa.

Aventurine yelped, his head hitting the piece of furniture roughly. Thankfully, Ratio caught himself with his arms before completely crushing the smaller man. They were now incredibly close to each other, Aventurine caged in between Ratio’s arms as he loomed over the blond.

And it was like the world stilled. Both men held their breath, eyes darting everywhere on the others face. Aventurine could only hear the sound of his heart pounding. Strangely, instead of feeling threatened like he might’ve if this were another man, he was perfectly comfortable with this. He traced Ratio’s pretty features with his eyes, finding the same beauty as last night. The tension was thick as he watched Ratio’s eyes dart to his lips. 

“Hey, you don’t look half bad from this angle doc. I could get used to this!” Aventurine teased, trying to dispel this situation of strange intimacy they were in.

His words brought Ratio back to earth, his cheeks flushing delightfully. He stood up clumsily, hiding his face in his hands. 

“Gambler! Don’t say such things!” He muttered, looking way too adorable.

So naturally, Aventurine started laughing. He turned to lay flat on the couch bringing a hand to his head as pure laughter echoed in the room. This was a laugh unlike every other ones he ever uttered. It was sincere and truly full of euphoria caused by this strange situation. Aventurine couldn’t stop. As he calmed down to take a breath, he saw Ratio staring at him once more. 

“What’s wrong? Did you get hurt?” Aventurine asked, worried. He got up slightly, waiting for the doctors response.

“No, nothing of the sort I was simply…” The professor hesitated, as if unsure of his next statement. “That’s not an expression I see often on you.” 

Oh. Right. This was awfully vulnerable, wasn’t it? The gambler did let Ratio closer than he would any other man. Because of the… numerous things he lived, Aventurine usually couldn’t get comfortable with anyone. Or at least, not comfortable enough to let them trap him in their arms without instantly punching them. He could barely handle touch sometimes, yet he hadn’t felt afraid or defensive a single time with Ratio. No, instead he found it amusing. He had fun, real fun unlike the thrill of a gamble.

How sad was it that this was probably the happiest he ever felt?

“Well, cherish the memory because you probably won’t see it again.” Aventurine tried to laugh it off, fixing his hair. He noticed that Ratio was avoiding his gaze, which was unusual. “Did I make you uncomfortable?” 

“Of course not. Actually, I should be the one to ask you this.” The doctor retorted, finally looking back towards Aventurine. “This could have ended badly, I hope you’re aware.”

Did Ratio’s doctor side stop him from ever having fun? A little danger wasn’t a big deal, at least not to a gambler like Aventurine.

“I’m fine, I’m way too lucky for this to end badly!” He teased, changing positions to sit crossed legged on the sofa. His eye caught onto the sparkly envelope that he had dropped when they fell. 

He took ahold of it and Ratio practically jumped at the sight, rushing closer. Aventurine supposed it wouldn’t hurt to read it, but he decided to do it first. He wanted to verify the content of the letter to get to know more on how the Puzzlemaster was interacting with Ratio.

He pulled out the page, filled with the usual cursive handwriting.

Doctor Ratio,

I’ll admit, this took more time than I would’ve expected. What can I say, we’re not all cut out to be in the Genius Society after all! Were you surprised by the true look of my home planet? The red sky can be beautiful, but it’s a bit too strange to be marketable. I’m sure someone you know will find the sights of our Rocky Mountains and dry environments quite familiar. Anyways, good on you for decoding the first half of my clue, but you still have work to do. The illusion device you’ve found may help you in the future, so keep it close. Capturing the wings of the Chrysalide can prove to be an arduous task. Furthermore, I recommend attending tonight’s event. I’m sure you will find it delightful. 

Don’t let me down.

Evander Winslow

“I’m going to asphyxiate him.” Ratio voice resonated close to Aventurine. He hadn’t even realized that the doctor was reading over his shoulder.

It was infinitely clear that Ratio was being manipulated. The Puzzlemaster was using his ego against him to make him more vulnerable. Meanwhile, Aventurine was also displeased at the mention of himself. Why did Evander Winslow drag him and Sigonia into this? Was it just to flex all the information he had on Aventurine? 

“Ratio, calm down.” He could feel the doctor fuming behind him, not even needing to look to know. “That’s exactly how he wants you to react! He’s insulting your greatest quality, your intellect, in the hopes that you’ll want to prove him wrong. He wants you to hurry so that you leave crucial details aside. And it’s working.”

Then he turned back to Ratio, to face his reaction. 

“What! Nonsense, his little tactic is not working on me!” The doctor protested, looking shocked at Aventurine’s words.

“Ratio, it is. Look at how you’ve acted since I’ve arrived! You’re obviously stressed, more tense than usual and you simply won’t let the clue go. We both know that’s not how you usually act.” Aventurine argued, trying to knock some sense into him.

He looked into Ratio’s eyes as the realization hit him. The expression on the doctor’s face changed completely. Ratio brought a hand to his head and blinked in disbelief. Then he sighed dramatically.

“Aeons, you’re right.” He shook his head, the incredulity on his face not washing away. “I cannot believe that I did not see through it.”

“It’s normal doc. He’s doing it on purpose because he knew it would work on you. You pride yourself on your intellect, so it’s only natural that insulting it subtly would make you want to prove yourself. It’s a technique as old as time.” The blond dropped the letter on the table.

“I’m quite grateful for your knowledge on this topic, or else I might’ve made a fatal error. I need… to take a bath.”

That small sentence made Aventurine chuckle slightly. Ratio and his baths, how typical. It seemed he was somewhat back to his senses.

“I won’t stop you. I will say one thing before though, the event tonight is tango.” Aventurine informed him.

“Oh that is simply splendid, I posses about a total of zero skills when it comes to any type of dance.” Ratio exclaimed, clearly displeased. 

He mumbled some profanities about Evander Winslow as he left towards the bathroom.

After a long, long bath where Ratio cleared his mind of any superfluous thoughts, where he might’ve even had a conversation with his rubber duck (but no one needed to know that), he sat down on the heart-shaped sofa. He rolled the metal cylinder in his hands, ready to take a closer look at it. Whilst Aventurine was right, he still wished not to waste too much time. Although now, he would proceed with much more caution than before. He still felt a bit bothered by the Puzzlemaster, but he tried to stay calm. 

This object was called an illusion device in the letter. That term felt familiar, perhaps Ratio read an article about it in the past? It would be quite an interesting discovery, so the odds were high. The problem was that he read so much research that he couldn’t remember a word of the article. It looked somewhat like a battery, but bigger. 

It was said to be potentially useful to solve the rest of the clue, but it was currently unusable. He would have to tinker with it in order to make it functional. He needed a source of electricity, he knew that at least. It was a good thing that he brought a few of his tools, then.

He began to work on understanding the device, completely focused on his task. He wasn’t even sure where Aventurine was, but it mattered little right now. After an unknown amount of time, he was able to start conceiving an object that could be capable of exploiting the power of the illusion device. He was limited on materials, therefore it was not as refined as he’d wish. Although it was quite elementary, it could help to make it usable. Ratio was not completely certain of the need for this thing, but he intended on putting all odds on his side.

He did not even notice Aventurine before the gambler was hovering over his shoulder from behind the sofa. 

“You keep impressing me with your skills doc!” The blond mused, inspecting the device. 

Ratio shrugged, brushing the compliment off. He was trying to stop Aventurine from getting to his head more than he already did. Something quite strange had happened earlier, when he ended up on top of the gambler. Ratio could still feel the turmoil it had caused in him. They’d never been this close, it had caused his brain to short-circuit. The other thing that lingered in his head was the beautiful sound of Aventurine’s laughter. It was truly the most breathtaking the gambler had ever looked. 

Although Ratio was not supposed to be thinking about that.

“The event tonight is starting at six, we should probably head out soon if we want to have enough time to eat before. Have you figured out what you’re supposed to do?” Aventurine continued, still leaning a bit too close to Ratio.

“I have to admit that I am quite puzzled. Perhaps the masquerade element has something to do with the activity. I am not quite sure what creating your own masquerade can entail. Hopefully I’ll get a strike of genius once there.” Ratio suggested, fidgeting with his new invention. “I’ve attempted to make this cylinder functional. I’m not quite sure how to make it do the illusion wanted, therefore I’ll have to put more time into decoding it.”

Aventurine hummed softly, stepping away from the sofa.

“Nice work doc. That Puzzlemaster is no match for you! I’ll go change while you finish up.” He stated before sauntering away.

Ratio found himself smiling slightly, flattered by Aventurine’s praise. 

Wait. Was it some kind of reverse technique to boost his ego to ensure that the doctor wouldn’t get hyper focused again? That would be exactly the type of method Aventurine would use. And why was it working?

You’re thinking about him again Ratio stop it, he told himself, trying to focus back on his device. Aventurine’s praise and compliments did nothing to him. Nothing. 

He focused back on the task at hand, pondering on how to refine his creation. If he had access to his usual lab, this would’ve been much easier. His tools and resources were quite limited here. Of course, he always brought some of his things during missions like these, but not nearly enough to make something perfect.

Although, there was a lab in the hotel. Perhaps the equipment there could be of help, assuming there was any. If only he thought of this earlier, he could’ve had something functional ready for the event! But it was a bit too late now as they had to leave soon to be on time.

Oh well. He would be quite alright. Ratio would be able defeat whatever plan the Puzzlemaster had concocted. He wouldn’t let his ego be wounded once more. He was of a high intellect, no matter how much Evander Winslow mocked him. 

All of his thoughts were washed away as the sound of the door made him turn his head and catch a glimpse of a very handsome Aventurine dressed in red, black and gold. The quite noticeable change in colour palettes surprised Ratio, the deep red contrasting with his usually turquoise. 

The only thing Ratio found himself thinking was Does he look good in every color? How unfair!

Indeed, the velvety red looked incredibly flattering paired with Aventurine’s golden blond hair and vibrant eyes. Even with this new colour, peacock patterns were integrated into the outfit, keeping close to Aventurine’s usual exuberant style. It seemed as if he was physically unable to look ugly, to Ratio’s great demise.

“What do you think doc? Fitting?” Aventurine posed, showing off his outfit teasingly. 

“Well it is surely flamboyant enough for an event such as…tango.” Ratio answered, sighing.

When he mentioned earlier that he had no skills in dance, he meant it. Ratio possessed about the the same amount of rhythm as a rock. Hopefully a sort of crash course would be offered, saving him from too much embarrassment. 

He got up in order to go change as well. Nothing in his closet could equal the flair of Aventurine’s clothes, but perhaps he could opt for something a tad more… laid back.

After contemplating his options for a long while, Ratio decided on a black suit that opened further on his chest than what he was used to. His golden accessories would fit with Aventurine’s. This was far less professional than the doctor’s usual taste. Although he did not mind show a bit of skin, he was afraid that he looked a bit… out of place.

Oh well, next to Aventurine, he would fit right in.

After a few minutes used to style his hair, he stepped out of the bedroom to be met once more with Aventurine’s horrible posture. Aeons how did his back not kill him? The gambler was looking at his phone, blond strands of hair falling in front of his eyes.

“I am ready.” Ratio stated, waiting to be joined by Aventurine.

“Hm…” The gambler looked up, eyes widening as he took in the outfit. “Oh.”

Aventurine blinked, seemingly not a thought behind his eyes. Ratio could almost feel his gaze roam all over him.

“If it looks horrible I’ll get changed.” The doctor stated, almost clumsily.

“Horrible?! Are you kidding? You look amazing doc!” Aventurine hopped off of the couch, offering his hand for Ratio to take. “You might get hit on more than me with this outfit! I’ll have to fight off the admirers away from my fiancé.”

Ratio face heated softly, this time not as bad as previously. Great, he was making progress.

“Stop talking nonsense gambler. Let’s go.” He took a hold of Aventurine’s hand and took the lead towards the restaurant.

Aventurine’s fake laughter was definitely not as beautiful as his real one. Ratio came to this conclusion as he watched Aventurine socialize, a hand around the blond’s waist.

When they arrived in this grand hall after their diner, Aventurine has suggested that Ratio have an arm around him, to look more natural. 

Ratio did not feel natural. In fact, he was already horribly tense from the Puzzlemaster’s plotting that sticking this close to Aventurine constantly was starting to drive him insane. His senses were overwhelmed by the sweet smell of Aventurine’s parfume and by the sound of his voice. This was supposed to help their fiancé appearance, yet it felt painfully obvious to everyone around that Ratio was incredibly stressed out about this proximity.

He was taken back to reality by Aventurine shifting towards him, eyes on Ratio. 

“It’s going to start soon. Are you ready?” The gambler asked, staying far too close to the doctor. 

Ratio sighed, bringing a hand to massage his temple. He had twisted and turned the last bit of the clue in his head incessantly to no avail. What could it possibly mean? Perhaps Evander Winslow was simply messing with him, spouting utter nonsense just to spite Ratio. It wouldn’t be unlike him. That man seemed to have quite the nerve.

What could be the correlation between tango dancing and a masquerade? Other than the dance element, they had nothing in common. Especially not in any sense that could work with the present situation. 

Did this require him to be skilled at dancing? Because if that was the case, the Puzzlemaster had clearly already won. But how could he possibly be aware of Ratio’s nonexistent dance skills? What if he wasn’t and this was simply a horribly ironic first clue? There was, in fact, no crash courses offered. How could everyone present just… know how to dance tango? And why did it make Ratio feel so… inferior?

He sighed loudly, focusing back on the conversation at hand.

“I despise to admit it, but I do not have a single clue of what I am supposed to do. Do you… know how to dance tango? Because I certainly do not.” He stated as Aventurine took a hold of the hand on his waist, taking it in his. Ratio hadn’t realized that he’d been fiddling with the fabric of Aventurine’s shirt before it was too late. Now his hand was entrapped in the gambler’s. 

“I do, I’ve learned a few strange skills when I first became a Stoneheart. If you need, I’ll be able to…” Aventurine trailed off as someone approached the two men. He shot them his sweetest fake smile. Ratio followed his gaze, noticing a rather short woman with braided black hair walking towards them. Unlike everyone they’d talked to, she looked relaxed and bubbly.

“Hello! You’re the Stoneheart Aventurine, right?” She held out a hand that the gambler quickly shook. Ratio also noticed the glass butterfly on her red dress. “It’s so nice to meet you! I’m glad to see things go forward with the hotel!”

“Why, the feeling is mutual! We really hope that these negotiations will end for the better!” Business talk, as usual. Ratio simply observed as Aventurine worked his magic.

“So do we! I’m Caladrea, the archivist for the Glasswings! If you’re ever in need of documentation on the hotel, please reach out to me! They might not get you what you want otherwise, they’re a bit stingy on sharing info.” She leaned in closer to say that last phrase, as if it was a pleasantry between these three. 

“Noted, that’s very kind of you! That’s a beautiful necklace you have!” Aventurine’s comment made Ratio look down towards the key shaped crystal pendant she was wearing. It resembled the room keys they were given.

“Oh, thank you so much! It’s the key to the archives… although I… shouldn’t be telling you this, whoops! You know, they say the archives are like the wings of the Chrysalide or something like that so… pretend I didn’t say anything!” Caladrea exclaimed, looking clumsy.

Hm. The words wings of the Chrysalide felt strangely familiar. Ratio could’ve sworn he’d heard it before. But where? it had to be recent. Perhaps it was in his research? He started sifting through his mental notes, trying to find the origin of the words.

The genius zoned out for the rest of the conversation and only came back to himself as Aventurine was dragging him towards the centre of the room.

“You seem to be lost in thought. I’d suggest focusing on the moment since the event is about to start.” Aventurine warned, placing Ratio’s hands in the right position on him.

“What?!” The doctor exclaimed, looking around. Indeed, the room was filled with duos ready to begin the dance. “Isn’t there supposed to have a speech or something of the sort?”

“There was one… did you zone out so hard that you didn’t hear it?” Aventurine joked, half worried. 

Ratio simply looked at him, filled with disdain for the Puzzlemaster. Why did he play with his mind in such a way?! Damn him. Damn him and his idiocy, his half clues and his…

Wait. 

In the letter Ratio received after solving the clue about the window, there was a line… a line that said something akin to… you may find it difficult to capture the Chrysalide’s wings.

Capture the Chrysalide’s wings. Steal the key to the archives. That was his task.

It had to be that. He was certain of it.

Ratio shoved away all panic as an energetic music started filling the room. He leaned towards Aventurine.

“Gambler, I need to steal the key to the archives.” He said with haste, brain trying to come up with any possible way of obtaining what he needed.

A quick calculation seemed to happen in Aventurine’s head, then he focused back on Ratio with a decided glare.

“Follow my lead then.” 

With not even a second to get ready, Aventurine pulled him into a step sequence that the doctor could only try to follow. Startled and honestly confused, he held on tight to the gambler who swayed him side to side, front, back and so on. Aventurine’s moves were flawless, precise and charming. Ratio, on the other hand, looked like an incompetent. But no matter. This wasn’t the problem right now. He didn’t really understand what Aventurine was trying to accomplish with his dancing. How would this get him the key of the archives?

His thoughts were cut off as Aventurine said in his ear “stop.”, then indeed stopped abruptly at the same time as a silence in the music was heard. It was but a short break for the doctor as mere seconds afterwards, they were back to moving.

As the music intensified around them, the steps got faster and faster. Ratio could only see a blur as he tried to focus and trust Aventurine. Surely he had a plan. It could be seen in his eyes. He was always looking around, somehow being able to keep up with the dance at the same time. 

“Spin!” Was all Ratio heard before he was getting twirled around with force. This made him incredibly dizzy, yet his body was now somewhat able to follow Aventurine’s rhythm. Without losing a second, they were back to the same routine. “Get ready.” 

Get ready? For what? 

Ratio tried to focus on his surroundings, his eyes immediately catching onto that glimmering glass key. Caladrea was right behind Aventurine. Right. The goal. It was right there he just needed and opportunity to…

Without warning, the smaller man guided them straight for the woman. If they were to continue at such a speed, they would surely make collisions with the archivist and her dance partner. Ratio wondered for a second if Aventurine had miscalculated, but then he understood. No. This was purely intentional. He was giving Ratio said opportunity.

So when the next warning came, the doctor knew of his role.

“Dip!” Stated the gambler before simultaneously slamming into the duo and dipping Ratio.

Quickly, Ratio extended a hand and took advantage of the chaos caused by the collision to pull roughly on the chain holding the key to the archives. As Aventurine pulled the doctor back up, he slipped it in his pocket before placing back his hand where it was meant to be, as if nothing had happened. 

They danced away after Aventurine had yelled an apology. Ratio felt a surge of adrenaline and excitement course through him, unable to hold back a smile. The song quickly came to an end so the two men stopped, chests heaving. 

Ratio looked down at Aventurine, his eyes sparkling. The gambler answered with a smile, winking quickly at his partner. Applauds filled the room, a courteous gesture to the other duos. 

Aventurine leaned closer, hooking his arms around Ratio’s neck.

“I have to admit, this has tired me out!” He claimed loudly, playing the role of  Ratio’s fiancé.

Impulsively, Ratio brought a hand to Aventurine’s cheek and stroke it softly. His face was probably already red enough that a bit of contact couldn’t make it worse.

“I quite agree. Shall we return to our room my love?” He asked, playing along. 

“It seems like it!” His fiancé answered and without waiting another second, they were off.

As soon as they were alone in the corridor, Ratio’s smile widened. Aventurine had never seen him so… excited. He chuckled slightly, fixing his hair.

“That was spectacular gambler. Great work. Ten points!” Ratio praised, his tone full of awe. 

It felt nice to hear his strategy be complimented by the doctor. Usually, his methods were seen as nebulous. Maybe Ratio just had to live it to understand.

“What, not too unnecessarily risky for you? That’s rare! Here I was, thinking you’d be scolding me for such a reckless and impulsive plan!” He teased.

“While it is true that this was far from my usual methods, it worked quite wonderfully. Therefore, I have no reason the be displeased. You truly are a great dancer.” Ratio just kept going. He was rarely this agreeable. 

Aventurine laughed, head leaning backwards slightly. 

“Oh come on doc… isn’t the thrill so fun? Admit it! A little impulsivity makes for an exciting outcome.” 

Ratio huffed, turning his head away from the gambler‘s gaze. 

“Don’t go thinking I approve of all your methods. I’d rather you not bet your life again!” The scholar explained, his more familiar tone coming back to him.

At that moment, Aventurine really felt the weight of Ratio’s hand in his. For an odd reason, his brain reminded him of how the doctor had called him my love and the softness with which he’d touched him. Yes, it was simply for the act but… he kind of… enjoyed it. How silly.

“Awww are you saying that because you just love me sooo much?” Aventurine leaned towards Ratio, expecting to see his cheeks flush. Instead, the cold marble welcomed him, causing even more amusement.

“It was for… the act! The people around!” Ratio defended himself, voice muffled under his alabaster headpiece.

“Uh huh, I know! But you still said it!” 

A serene smile lit up the gambler’s face, a little fire that might’ve been joy lighting up into him. He wasn’t used to feeling this way. Content. Not in perpetual suffering. Amused. He knew it wouldn’t last, but as he walked back to their room, Aventurine found himself hoping that he could feel like this forever.

Chapter Text

The sand under Kakavasha’s feet was warm, the breeze making it rustle softly. The sight of Sigonia was comforting, but only for a moment. He was looking down from the cliff he was perched upon, a sea of blood forming itself beneath. He could see their remnants. Their desecrated and tortured bodies staining the beautiful Sigonia. Kakavasha watched with dread, knowing that he was far too late to stop this miserable occurrence. Even then, truly he was nothing but a coward. He should be dead with his people.

Echoes of footsteps appeared behind him, but he couldn’t turn around. He was forced to keep looking. He was forced to keep this heritage of blood with him forever. Kakavasha felt a warm presence at his side, a voice he knew too well murming to him.

“My dear brother…” No. It wasn’t her. Her voice was all twisted and cruel, raspy like it had never been. “You let us perish. You deserve to suffer.”

The voice snarled before pushing Kakavasha off the cliff, making him scream in surprise. Everything swirled around him, the light of the sun fading away. He reached forward, like trying to grasp onto the light before he was swallowed by an inevitable darkness.

His back his hardly on a cold rock floor, punching all air out of his lungs. Suddenly all of his body ached, torn up with burning pain. Simply breathing became a laborious task. He recognized this place, cold, rough and terrifying. 

Before he could anticipate it, he received a strong kick in the ribs that sent him rolling further. Kicked like a vulgar dog. He howled in pain, not unlike a dog either. He coughed out blood as his master appeared before him.

“You filthy slave. You do not get to disobey me.” There was a crazy look in his eyes, the one that made Kakavasha’s entire body tremble.

Out of pure instincts, he backed up. Or at least he tried. He could barely get his body to move an inch. Still, he defied his master by looking at him in the eyes.

“How cute. You won’t escape me, filthy sigonian.” His master stated cruelly, skin ripping and limbs cracking. Kakavasha watched in pure horror as he twisted into a sort of corpse monster with deathly white eyes, sharp limbs and sharp teeth. It snarled as it pounced on Kakavasha. It loomed over the helpless figure as Kakavasha’s breath quickened. He managed to back up slowly, followed by the beast. “You are nothing. You will never be worthy of anything. You dirty Avgin dog, you are as insignificant as your species.” 

Panic overtook Kakavasha as he tried to crawl away the fastest possible, which wasn’t nearly fast enough. The creatures voice was grating and aggressive, thundering everywhere around him. He quickly came to the conclusion that this was hopeless, there was nowhere to run. Fear overtook his entire body as the creature crawled closer.

“You will never escape the legacy of blood staining your hands. You will never find peace neither will you have power but you will die trying to gain any of those.”

Kakavasha wanted to contest this, but he knew it was true. He was worthless. He was better dead. Yet he couldn’t help but to feel distressed. He knew this was his end. But why this? Why now? 

No. No. No no no no no no

He started pleading for his life pathetically, screaming and begging as he would meet his end and….

And…

“Gambler!” 

He was violently pulled out of his nightmare by a loud, somewhat familiar voice. Out of pure instinct, Kakavasha curled up on himself and backed up until his back hit a wall. Still panicked, he looked around without being able to recognize where he was. The room was dark, looking far too much like the darkness he’d just escaped. Could he be certain that he was somewhere else? What if this was just another trick of his mind? 

“Aventurine, are you alright?” The rough male voice made Kakavasha flinch,  finally noticing the other presence. He skimmed over the man’s features, not able to pinpoint exactly who it was. At least he knew one thing; it wasn’t his master. 

But that didn’t mean he was safe.

He couldn’t quite register that the man had said something. His system was simply filled with fear. His breath was quick and it was now, as he felt the wall behind him, that he realized how trapped he felt. This did not ease his panic in any way possible.

He started digging his nails into his knees, trying to hang onto the pain. His eyes met the man again, looking closer at his expression. Something about the rather soft look on his face felt… oddly reassuring. Kakavasha knew that he was supposed to know this man. Now that he really looked at him, kneeling in front of Kakavasha, the sight of him brought him a bit of calm. That should be a good sign, right?

“Gambler,” The man reached towards him, which still caused Kakavasha to flinch out of instinct. A calculating glare appeared in the man’s eyes as he was clearly rethinking his strategy. “Is it alright if I touch you? I promise I will cause you no harm.”

Kakavasha realized that he was trembling while his brain was trying to piece the request together. Touch? Touch wasn’t good. It never was. He hesitated as he tried to find any trace of ill intentions on the man’s face. His features were rough, like he was cut out of stone, yet he was still quite beautiful. His expression wasn’t overly gentle or reassuring, but Kakavasha couldn’t find any intention of harming him. Still, he’d been deceived before. 

He stayed incredibly still in the silence, the other man not budging as well. A ray of moonlight lit up his face and that is when Kakavasha found himself looking in his beautiful eyes, the soft gold colour of them calling to him. It was a sight that made him relax unconsciously, almost hypnotized. He knew these eyes. He trusted them. His mind knew then that he was safe. Before Kakavasha could even register it, he found himself nodding slowly, accepting.

Slowly, very slowly, the man reached forward. Kakavasha braced himself for the contact, not flinching away this time. His heartbeat couldn’t help but to quicken, far too used to being hurt. 

The man took Kakavasha’s hands in his, slowly pulling them away from where they were digging into the skin of Kakavasha’s knees. It soothed a pain he had forgotten about. However, it caused him to clasp his hands tightly onto the man’s. He hadn’t been violent yet, like he promised, so Kakavasha allowed himself to grasp onto him.

“Deep breaths.” The man instructed him, keeping his gaze on Kakavasha 

He found himself trembling, shaken with fear and confusion. It made his grip tighten but instead of pulling away, the man simply ran his thumbs on the back of Kakavasha’s hands. It happened to be an incredibly soothing gesture, that helped him find a bit of focus.

Right. Deep breaths. He closed his eyes, trying to will his body to calm down. He thought only of his breathing, letting the air course through his body until his head and body had regained some peace. He stabilized, the fear slowly exiting his system. The man kept his promise, staying gentle with Kakavasha. Once he seemed to be going better, he asked;

“Can you tell me your name?” A simple question, probably meant to ground him.

“Ka…” He started, but his mind knew instantly that the answer he was about to give was wrong. Kakavasha wasn’t his name. Not anymore. He was…

He was Aventurine. 

Aventurine’s eyes shot opened, meeting his precious doctor’s gaze. He was Aventurine and the man in front of him was Ratio. He couldn’t help but stare at the doctor in disbelief, shocked at the terrible haze he’d been in. Everything was clear now. He was a stoneheart on a retrieval mission, accompanied by his one and only… friend? 

And he’d just completely lost himself in front of Ratio. He let out a long sigh, loosening his grip on Ratio’s hands. 

“Shit. I’m sorry Ratio I…” He untangled his fingers from the doctor’s, bringing his hands to his head. “I don’t know… what happened.” 

“I believe you’ve had a nightmare. I woke up and you were screaming and tossing as if you were being attacked. I simply wanted to make sure you were alright. I apologize if I have overstepped.” Simple, straight to the point, as always with Ratio. He was acting so neutral now but Aventurine could still feel his soft touch on the back of his hands.  

“You didn’t… do anything wrong. I’d probably still be freaking out if it wasn’t for you. I’m… sorry that you’ve witnessed this. I can…” Aventurine hesitated, crossing his arms around himself in a defensive manner. He found Ratio’s gaze, looking back at him with an unusual vulnerability. “I’ll go sleep on the sofa.”

To that sentence, Ratio made an offended face that brought Aventurine a bit of warmth. 

“Nonsense! With how horrendous your posture already is, it would cause a myriad of back problems for you. I am many things but I am no chiropractor!” Ratio crossed his arms. “Well, not officially.”

The absolute absurdity of the claim was so grand that Aventurine couldn’t help but to laugh. What a typical Ratio thing to say. The remnants of his fear dissipated as a comforting familiarity installed itself. 

“You… oh, Ratio…” Aventurine smiled.

He got close to the doctor, finally letting his guards down. Without really taking the time to think about it, Aventurine wrapped his arms around Ratio’s neck and and shoved his head in the doctor’s chest. Ratio tensed, his body stiffening. But the comfort that this contact brought Aventurine was too distracting, therefore he did not notice. He could only think of one thing.

He was safe with Ratio. 

After a few seconds, the doctor ended up lightly wrapping his arms around Aventurine’s waist. The gambler enjoyed this warmth, so he cuddled closer.

“I couldn’t recognize you for a moment.” Aventurine mumbled, unsure of why he was saying this. “It was scary.”

Ratio stayed silent.

As the adrenaline disappeared, Aventurine also realized that he was quite tired. His sleep during his dream had surely been quite light. But he knew that he’d be able to fall asleep like this, safe, warm, in Ratio’s arms. He could already feel himself drifting to slumber.

“I’m tired.” He muttered once more. “Can I stay like this?” 

“If that is your wish.” Ratio answered, sighing softly. 

Ratio went back towards his side of the bed, bringing Aventurine with him as the gambler wouldn’t stop clinging to him. He managed to lay on his side, Aventurine wrapped around him. 

As he succumbed to a finally peaceful sleep, all Aventurine could think was;

Safe.

Aventurine woke up feeling fuzzy, his head a bit confused. He opened his eyes to find himself clinging on Ratio’s arm, head nuzzled against him.

Shit. 

He got up immediately, practically jumping off the bed. He looked at Ratio, still asleep, in horror.

What the fuck have I done, he thought. The events of last night came crashing back in his memory, leaving him even more mortified. 

Aventurine had monumentally fucked up. What the hell had he thought?! Clinging to Ratio as if they were actually dating?! It was bad enough that he’d woken up the doctor with his nightmares, Ratio had seen Aventurine in a disgustingly vulnerable state! One that no other living being was allowed to witness. And over all of that, Aventurine had dared asked to sleep in his arms.

This was a catastrophic. Horrendous. Disastrous. Aventurine would’ve rather died than this.

Full of panic, he abandoned the sleeping doctor and rushed to the bathroom, completely unsure of what to do now. Should he apologize? It was certain that Ratio didn’t actually want Aventurine to get all up in his space while he was sleeping! Maybe he should just pretend that it never happened. 

Aeons this is terrible, he thought. He felt a surge of anger towards himself for displaying such behaviour. Groaning, he laid his head on the marble counter, dragging a hand through his hair. He felt an urge to rip off as punishment. 

In his despair, an idea crossed his mind.

Quickly, Aventurine fumbled to take his phone and clicked on Topaz’s contact. It was somewhat early, but hopefully she wasn’t busy. He paced around the bathroom as the phone rung, praying to anything that existed that she would pick up. In a moment of clarity, he turned on the shower to muffle the noise of his conversation, in case the doctor was awake. 

“Aventurine? Are you okay?” Topaz finally answered. Aventurine jumped slightly, gripping into his phone.

“No I'm not okay! I fucked up monumentally Topaz I need help!” He practically shouted at his phone, before he remembered that Ratio was just outside. 

“We’re talking what? Death row or bad hair day?” She asked, half serious.

“No, no it’s WORST. I’d rather be dead over this!” He continued, letting all of his frustration spill out.

“Okay, well you say that about everything so I’m gonna need more details here.” Topaz replied.

Aventurine let out a long sigh, massaging his temple. 

“As you know, I’m sharing a room with Ratio for my current assignment.” He spoke quickly, the stress growing every second. Topaz answered with a sound, a sign to continue going. “Well last night I had a little… nightmare so in a sort of… sleepy haze I…  asked to sleep in his arms.” 

Aventurine could feel his cheeks heat in embarrassment, which was something he wasn’t very used to feeling. He didn’t have much shame in life, but this was a strange situation. It was so uncharacteristic of him. He was supposed to be a cool and collected businessman with not a care in the world. He couldn’t afford for Ratio to see him in any other way than that.

It didn’t help him whatsoever that Topaz starting laughing. Aventurine’s face became horrified as she cackled, occasionally straying from the phone. Aventurine could imagine her face. He could almost see her shaking with laughter as she tried to catch her breath.

“It’s not funny!” He argued, the frustration rising.

“Okay but wait…” Topaz seemed to be able to calm down for an instant. “Did he say yes?” 

“I…” Aventurine sighed, starting to feel like Topaz wouldn’t be much help. “I think so?”

And the cackling returned. 

“You know, I have a feeling that you’re not really understanding how serious this is.” He reproached, frowning at his phone.

“Oh no! Ratio is gonna know you have a big fat crush on him! Disaster!” Topaz answered, her sarcasm cutting like a knife. It also made a strange feeling of defensiveness rise in Aventurine.

“Hey! I do not have a crush on him!” He disputed. “It was just… my subconscious!”

Aventurine fought the urge to throw his phone across the room, sitting down against the wall instead. He felt so unpleasantly bothered by everything. By the situation, by himself, by Topaz and her ridiculous claims. He wasn’t supposed to be doing any of this. He was a cordial business partner with Ratio who happened to be a man that Aventurine could feel safe with. It didn’t matter how warm it was in his arms. Aventurine didn’t deserve the chance to be this close to a genius.

“Listen Aventurine, if you called me just to lie to yourself I think you need to do some self reflection instead.” Topaz answered, a hint of amusement still present in her voice.

“Ugh whatever… thanks anyways.” He answered bitterly before hanging up. That was of no help whatsoever.

Aventurine groaned in frustration, filled with dread. He didn’t want to talk to Ratio about this. In fact, he’d rather that Ratio never got close to him again. That way he didn’t run the risk of Aventurine getting disgustingly clingy. He wouldn’t see the ugly truth of what Aventurine really was. Useless, doomed, stupid, a fraud, a liar.

Maybe it was better if they never saw each other again after this mission.

He should know by now that acting on impulse when it came to Ratio was a bad idea. Letting his guard down was the last thing he should be doing. He couldn’t just… allow Ratio so close to his weak points. It would only end badly. It always ended badly. Two main things were at risk of happening; Ratio showed his true colours or he became utterly disgusted with Aventurine. More than he already was, at least. 

Ratio would never hurt you, one part of his mind argued. He proved it yesterday. He could’ve hurt you then.

But the other part of his mind answered that’s how you end up hurt. No one can be trusted. You might not know who he really is.

And a third, quieter part claimed It’s not like you deserve his care and attention anyways. You’re just being a burden. He doesn’t want a useless thing like you. You should be sorry for tarnishing him.

Aventurine wasn’t able to tell which part won. Maybe all of them had. They were all screaming their different rhetoric, filling his mind with deafening noise. It made anger rise in him. It flared every time he realized how stupid he’d been. It built up like a wave, crashing violently against his bones. He didn’t deserve any of the things being a Stoneheart brought him. All he deserved was pain.

He let that anger talk to him, letting it guide him towards the shower. Before he could fully comprehend what he was doing, he was stepping under the ice cold water, the temperature stinging his skin.

Good. He deserved this. 

He put his head under the water, the freezing sensation spreading all the way in his hair and down his back. He looked up at the water, like he was trying to challenge it. Like he was saying go on. Freeze me.

This is what I deserve, he screamed in his mind every-time his body tried to pull away from the water.

The first thing Ratio noticed when he awoke was the sensation of cold he was afflicted with. He turned his head in confusion, realizing that Aventurine was gone. He blinked at the empty bed for a few moments, trying arduously to ignore the feeling of disappointment that appeared within him. 

It had been a mediocre idea to accept that Aventurine slept so close to him. A mediocre idea because now Ratio was acutely aware of how pleasant of a sleep he’d had. He could never have fathomed that having someone clinging to him could feel… enjoyable.

Damned be Aventurine and his endless charm. Ratio took a moment to reflect on last night’s events. 

He was not entirely certain that he hadn’t dreamed of it. The way Aventurine looked after Ratio had woke him up was incredibly strange. It was almost as if he was a different person. There was not a teasing smile or a playful remark in sight. Only fear was present. It made the gambler look much different. More fragile. 

It was also quite strange that he hadn’t answered to his name. When Ratio asked him to say it, he wasn’t going to reply Aventurine. Perhaps that was normal. As a Stoneheart, it would be likely for Aventurine to have another name. However, he did not seem like he wanted to share it.

How peculiar. Ratio felt like he saw something he was not allowed to. It caused him to wonder once more; who was Aventurine? Beyond the title, the money and the flair. Ratio wanted nothing less but to decipher him. Yet he had a feeling that the gambler wouldn’t open up so easily. He supposed it was normal. He looked terrified yesterday, therefore he must’ve had a horrific nightmare. 

He got up slowly, noticing the sound of the shower coming from that bathroom. That answered the question of Aventurine’s whereabouts. Ratio felt that tinge of disappointment once more and shoved it away. It was better that Aventurine hadn’t stayed next to him. Even if it would’ve been nice.

What? No. What tomfoolery am I thinking?, Ratio thought. It does not bother me whatsoever to be waking up alone. 

But he was oh so aware of how foolish he was acting. He wasn’t one to lie to himself… most of the time. Except when it came to Aventurine.

He sighed, pushing all thoughts of the gambler aside. He should be focusing on today’s plans instead. He got dressed distractedly, thinking of the state of this mission. 

He was incredibly surprised that no other letter had been sent to him since last night. It was quite uncharacteristically of Evander Winslow. However, it was possible that it was on purpose, just to bother Ratio. It would be used in the same way as his good for nothing clue. Only half of it was decipherable, the other half had indeed meant nothing. How annoying. And so devoid of any logic or satisfying pattern. Clearly, this hunt for his research was meant to be all over the place. 

Oh well. He would succeed either way. He was planning on heading down to the lab today in order to work on his illusion device and to try and find a way to make it functional. Perhaps he should write a research report on this, as it was actually quite fascinating. It seemed to be operating with cerebral waves of some sort. Ratio was eager to break it down and get into every little detail of its composition.

Afterwards, now that he was in possession of the key of the Archives, it would be most efficient to go take a look. Perhaps that was what Evander Winslow wanted him to do before procuring him another of his mediocre clues. 

He would only know if tried, after all. That was how any scientific research worked. 

As he was reflecting on all of this, he heard the shower being turned off.

Cold. So cold.

Aventurine’s mind was numbed, full of a single word; Cold. He reached to turn off the water with a shaky hand, all reasoning of why he was doing this completely erased of his mind. He couldn’t seem to remember. In fact, he couldn’t seem to remember anything before the cold. His entire body shook as he wobbled out of the shower, head spinning. 

He looked around the bathroom, spotting his sleepwear abandoned on the floor. His survival instincts took over and screamed at him to put some warm clothes on. The shivers running through Aventurine’s body were vicious. 

He took a step forward and almost tripped on himself, catching himself on the bathroom counter. The room was spinning incessantly around Aventurine. Had it always been so big? Such luxury felt incredibly unnecessary right now. Seriously, who needed a bathtub and a shower? 

His head was swimming, all of his thoughts were confused or out of place. It was like his body and its sensations were taking over. He couldn’t quite recall how he managed to get to his sleepwear, but somehow he did. His mind and body were acting on their own, trying desperately to survive. How familiar.

The next thing he was aware of was that he was opening the door. He was still drenched in water, feeling the cold drops slide on his skin. 

He stood in the door frame for what felt like an eternity, observing the way the bedroom distorted in front of him. Then a voice snapped him out of his haze.

“Gambler?” Ratio’s voice was laced with shock, as if he could tell that Aventurine was in a bad state.

Because he could. It was quite obvious. Aventurine’s entire body was shivering, he was soaking wet and his eyes were lost. Yet the gambler still believed that he looked half presentable.

“Morning.” Aventurine mumbled, not fully intelligibly. He turned his head around, eyes catching on the purple of Ratio’s hair. He looked so tall, way more than usually. For some reason, the sight caused him some anxiety. A part of him remembered that he didn’t want to see Ratio.

Aventurine began walking towards his suitcase, reminding himself that he needed warm clothes. The sensation of cold was relentless. 

It’s fine, he told himself. Nothing that a sweater can’t fix. 

He was so focused on his task that he didn’t realize that Ratio had walked up to him and was now standing in front of Aventurine. He looked up, meeting the doctor’s horrified gaze.

“Aventurine! For Nous’s sake what happened to you?!” Ratio frantically reached towards Aventurine, running a hand through his wet hair. Aventurine took a step back, trying to put some distance between them. “You’re in a state of hypothermia! How..” 

Ratio reached forwards once more, bringing his hand to Aventurine’s face. The warm contact made Aventurine jump in surprise. He didn’t understand why Ratio was freaking out. He was fine.

“Mfine…” he muttered, words slurring together. He tried to move past Ratio, only to be stopped once more. 

“Absolutely not! Hypothermia is a deadly condition Aventurine!” Before he could react, the doctor was dragging him towards the living room at a quick pace. He was shoved down into the sofa before he could fully understand what was happening. “Stay here. And try not to faint.”

Aventurine’s head was really spinning now.  The colours around him were bleeding into each other. He was starting to feel disconnected, like his body and mind were two different entities. Out of instinct, his body curled up on itself to try and find some heat. He could almost still feel Ratio’s hand on his face. It was almost like it had burnt him. 

Speaking of Ratio, Aventurine caught sight of him once more. His harsh face was contorted in a strange expression. It looked like worry. But why would he worry about Aventurine? His mind was probably making it up. 

Ratio was holding a red towel, one that was probably meant to fit in with the ridiculous red and pink decor of their room. Perhaps that was why Aventurine felt so dizzy. It was all so bright…

He jumped slightly when he felt the towel being wrapped around his hair. He had forgotten that they were soaked for a moment. The feeling of his head being enveloped in the fabric was strange but it worked. It stopped the viciously cold water from dripping down on his skin.

A thick blanket was wrapped around him suddenly and once he realized it, he’d lost track of Ratio once more. How fast was he going? It surely didn’t help Aventurine’s dizziness.

This blanket was nice. Yet it would never be as nice as Ratio’s arms. 

He shouldn’t be thinking of that. He shouldn’t even be letting Ratio take care of him like this. He was fine. He was deathly cold, completely out of it, couldn’t muster the strength to get up and he would probably faint soon but he was fine.

You can’t faint. Ratio told you not to faint. He told himself. After all, he would hate to disappoint Ratio. The doctor was already going out of his way for Aventurine, so he could not be a bad patient. He’d be the best patient. He’d be so good that maybe he could cuddle with Ratio again.

No. Aventurine had to fight the urges. Wasn’t that how he’d gotten himself in this mess in the first place? He couldn’t let Ratio know of even more of his weaknesses. 

“Aventurine, look at me.” Ratio stated, having appeared out of nowhere once more.  Aventurine turned towards him. He was leaning down to the blond’s level, surprisingly close. Like too many times lately, his stomach twisted in nervousness.

Usually, Aventurine was a master at shoving down his emotions. He could make himself look calm no matter the circumstances. Yet right now, he found himself unable to. After exhibiting such uncharacteristically behaviours last night, it would be crucial for him to play it cool. That way nothing would change.

All he could manage to do was to stare at Ratio like a deer in headlights. 

There was a silence. It felt long. Too long. Aventurine swallowed hardly, staring into those magnificent eyes. 

“I am going to take your pulse now.” Ratio stated, planting his lovely gaze into Aventurine’s. He did not move.

“O…kay?” Aventurine answered quietly, frowning at the man in front of him.

Ratio reached forward, placing two fingers on Aventurine’s neck. Once again, the touch burned, but Aventurine didn’t flinch this time. The two men kept eyes on each other, making Aventurine’s heartbeat quicken. The heat felt incredibly nice. 

“It’s weak.” Ratio hissed out, shaking his head. He looked disappointed. “How on the IPC did you manage to give yourself hypothermia?!”

He started to pull his hand away but Aventurine’s instincts (those damn traitors) made him reach for Ratio wrist to hold the hand back. The doctor seemed surprised by it, but he indulged in Aventurine’s urge.

“I uh… took a shower.” Aventurine answered weakly, all of his thoughts focused on the heat of Ratio’s skin. It was almost like an anchor, keeping him in place. Soothing a bit of this savage cold. He wanted to pull away. He wanted to push Ratio away. He wasn’t able to. 

He found himself looking down in shame, trying to avoid the inevitable: Ratio’s scolding. Perhaps he was simply going to leave Aventurine here, to care for himself. 

That’s what I deserve, Aventurine thought. I’m not worthy of his care. 

Then a sigh made him look up, as if Ratio could hear his thoughts. He admired the doctor’s messy hair and pretty face, ready to hear whatever insults he was going to conjure.

“It appears that the quickest and safest way to get you back at a decent temperature is through body heat. Are you comfortable with that?” Ratio lifted his head and looked to the side. He spoke quickly. Aventurine noticed the gentle pink colour of his face. Yet the words were making absolutely zero sense in his head, therefore he couldn’t understand why Ratio was getting flustered.

“I… what? What are you saying? Drop the pretty speech please I don’t…” 

Ratio groaned, bringing a hand to the bridge of his nose in discouragement. He shook his head slightly then muttered something under his breath. He looked back up to Aventurine afterwards, like he was expecting a response. 

“What?” Aventurine frowned, leaning towards Ratio. This caused them to be far too close. Yet no one moved. 

“It would be most optimal to hold you in my arms in order to restore your natural body temperature.” Ratio spat out, avoiding all eye contact with Aventurine. That’s when it struck him.

Oh. Cuddling. 

Aventurine would never admit how fast that made his heart beat. He would take that fact to his grave. 

A moment passed where no one moved. The hesitation was hanging in the air. Then slowly, Aventurine nodded. His gaze met Ratio’s but he looked away automatically. 

This wasn’t right. He wasn’t playing the Aventurine act right. Yet this was the perfect opportunity to rebuild his image.

“You’re such a good husband Doc! So sweet… and caring!” He tried to tease, adding an unsure smile. That felt good. That felt… comfortable. And the way Ratio’s eyes widened and his face flushed was just as delightful as ever.

“How often have I told you to stop talking?” Ratio muttered as he got up slowly, looking ever so defensive. This was an incredible relief for Aventurine. He knew this… at least somewhat. 

Ratio held his head high as he settled next to Aventurine on the sofa, leaning his back on the armrest. He opened his arms slightly, gesturing impatiently at Aventurine.

“Come. I do not have all day for this, gambler.” And not once did he look at Aventurine while stating this. 

He tried to calm down the turmoil that was growing inside of him once more. Once again, he heard the three voices arguing in his head.

See, he’s been so kind to you all this time…

It could be all an act.

It doesn’t matter. You’re a burden. 

But this time they were accompanied of what some people might call a survival instinct.

If you don’t heat up soon you will die. Go.

So, he timidly scooted forward until he was laying on Ratio’s chest, head in the crook of his neck. His entire body shivered because of the sheer contrast of the warmth of Ratio’s body. Aventurine couldn’t help himself from curling up further in Ratio’s arms, revelling in the pure warmth. This was perfect. He could die here and he’d be happy.

Well, he could die anywhere and he’d be happy.

He sighed into Ratio’s shoulder, clutching onto him for dear life. It didn’t seem to bother him as Ratio simply wrapped his arms stiffly around the gambler. 

Aventurine was once again filled with the same feeling as last night, safety. He could feel the guilt and the regret at what he was doing right now building up, but he decided to deal with those later. For now, all he wanted was to abandon himself and just… be here. In Ratio’s arms. Heating up slowly. Cared for.

Veritas Ratio what on Nous have you gotten yourself into?

He asked himself, the constant weight of Aventurine against him acting as a reminder of the situation he found himself in. Why did life had to test him in such a way? 

He held Aventurine stiffly, frankly unsure of the way he should be doing this. A man such as Veritas Ratio, successful, handsome and intelligent surely had held someone before, right?

Other’s views of Ratio were incredibly erroneous. Although, he wasn’t inclined on correcting them on this matter. The public did not need to know that there were very few people in his life. Neither did they need to know that he had never been in a relationship with someone. They did not need to know that holding Aventurine was far more puzzling than any mathematics could ever be. 

They didn’t need to know that he enjoyed it.

Ratio tried to brush those thoughts away, focusing his attention on the gambler. The state he’d found Aventurine in had been frankly terrifying. If Ratio had been worried last night, this was on a completely other level. The sight of Aventurine stumbling out of the bathroom, soaked from head to toe, lips blue from the cold, shivering aggressively had been horrifying. Ratio couldn’t remember the last time someone had scared him so intensely. Aventurine looked as if he could’ve dropped dead at any instant. 

And hypothermia, out of all things? How did the gambler manage that? It would be considered and impressive feat if it wasn’t utterly idiotic. He truly was frigid, Ratio could feel it. It wasn’t helping his worry. He was not lying when he had said that it was a deadly condition. He could only hope that this method would prove successful. 

Ratio was prideful, but not to the point where he’d let Aventurine perish to protect his ego. Even if his ego was, in simple terms, having a crisis.

He wasn’t used to having pretty men in his arms. And it was the second time in what felt like a far too short amount of time that this happened.

But he was not enjoying this, of course. It would be absolutely ridiculous to say that the contact of another, beautiful and entertaining person, was pleasant. This was simply a cordial exchange between business partners, except his business partner happened to be the biggest risk taker to exist. There was not a thing out of the ordinary here. 

“You can breath yknow…” Aventurine’s mumbled words surprised him, putting a stop to his thoughts. He felt the gambler shift, so he tried to relax his body, to provide a more comfortable environment. 

“My apologies.” 

Ratio looked down at the gambler. He was wrapped in the blanket Ratio had brought him, therefore only his head was visible. The towel had fallen somewhere on the side, abandoned. It allowed Ratio to see Aventurine’s soft blond hair.

He was then hit with an urge to run a hand through it. Which he stopped himself from doing before he could regret it. 

As he was contemplating Aventurine, his questioning of earlier came back to him. This man was incredibly mysterious. He remembered then that Aventurine had said earlier that he’d gotten this way because of his shower.

Hypothermia was not easy to get. Especially in such a context. Aventurine would’ve had to stand under ice cold water for a prolonged period of time, at the very least half an hour. Therefore, it was almost impossible to accidentally give yourself hypothermia. The body had limits that the mind was very aware of. Following this reasoning, the only way one could stay under such cold water for a long time would be to actively will the body to stay under it. Which meant…

“Gambler…” Ratio frowned, looking down at Aventurine. He lifted his head, peering back at the doctor. “Did you do this to yourself intentionally?”

Aventurine stiffened visibly, looking away. 

“Does it matter?” He huffed out. 

“Of course it matters!” Ratio’s face twisted into an expression of horror. As someone who valued life on such a level, it was an awful thing to hear. He cared alot about Aventurine, too. “I must know if it is safe for me to leave you alone. I would not be very please to find you dead.” 

He looked down sternly at the gambler, his indignation evident. This possibility created far more questions and worries. What had pushed him to do this? Was he withholding dangerous information from the doctor?

Ratio pushed that thought away as it came. Aventurine had stated clearly yesterday that he would inform Ratio of any new information. 

“What? I’m not twelve Ratio I’m a grown man. I don’t need you to chaperon me!” Aventurine protested, looking offended. His face was starting to regain its natural colours, which eased a bit of Ratio’s worry. 

“I was not denying that fact. I am simply stating that I do not wish for you to die or cause harm to yourself. I thought I had made it clear.” He replied, a strange feeling spreading in his gut. 

This would not end up well. Perhaps he had approached the situation in the wrong way. Surely scolding wasn’t what Aventurine need at the moment. Ratio had been too impulsive, as always. How should he be handling this, then? 

Ratio’s mind put itself to work, trying to find any resources of his studies in psychology. Strangely, it was never this simple when it came to Aventurine. Simple techniques and words did not work on him. 

“Right.” Aventurine scoffed. He then muttered something that was unintelligible to Ratio. Although, one thing was clear. He was not pleased.

Perhaps this was none of his business. Maybe that was what Aventurine wanted to hear. That Ratio didn’t care if he caused harm upon himself. That they were simply business partners, therefore it did not matter. That Ratio wasn’t supposed to care about him.

Because that could be true. They were just… partners. Coworkers. Associates. There was no need to play the act when it was only them. So why did this line of thinking create a sort of bitterness in the doctor? 

Had Ratio went too far with this entire thing? Yesterday evening, everything had been perfect. The two had worked together in perfect harmony, even getting along. And even before that, Ratio had always considered Aventurine to be quite an impressive person to work with (which was saying a lot, with his standards.). Perhaps he had overestimated their relationship. For a second, it was almost as if they were more that mere associates. Friends? Not quite. But more than partners. Last night events only made this line even more blurry. 

He was reading far too much into it, it seemed. Aventurine surely didn’t share the thought. He probably saw Ratio as nothing but a good and useful coworker. This was Ratio’s fault. He’d critically misread the situation. 

“I apologize. I suppose it does not concern me. I simply wanted you to know that I am not unfazed by what happens to you.” This was the clearest way he could formulate it. The rest of his thoughts would keep swimming in his head, eventually giving him a headache. 

Damned gambler. Why is everything so complicated with you?

“Yeah, whatever.” Aventurine got off slowly, looking to the side. The little of himself he had opened to Ratio was now completely shut off. It was fascinating how fast his attitude had changed. “You know, I feel much better. I’ll go get ready, I have things to do today.”

The statement made Ratio panic far more than it should’ve. It was so incredibly clear that he had made a faux pas. Yet this made nothing but sense. It was always going to end like this. 

Veritas Ratio this was a horrendous idea.

“Gambler wait…” Aventurine did not wait as he got up in a hurry, hoping off the couch. He turned his back to Ratio, looking tense. “I apologize. My intentions were never to offend you.” 

How on earth could he come back from this? What could he do?

“It’s fine, don’t worry doc. Thank you for you help.” Aventurine answered, keeping his back turned to Ratio. 

Then, he slipped into the bedroom and closed the door decisively.

So, Ratio was left alone, feeling anguished, missing the feeling of having Aventurine close.

Chapter Text

The casino was comforting. More than it should be. The ambiance was always buzzing, the noise was delightfully capable of numbing one’s thoughts, and the games were always interesting. 

Aventurine enjoyed it. He didn’t need to be Kakavasha here. He was the lucky gambler, the tempting man who bets it all and wins more. The champion. The cheat. The dazzling Aventurine.

It didn’t matter that it wasn’t even noon. Time didn’t exist in the confines of the casino. It was severely less busy, though, which lowered the level of fun. At least there were always the slot machines to rely on. 

Aventurine was aware that he would have to leave soon. It was about the only thing he was letting himself think about. Work. Gamble. Work. Gamble. Gambling. Winning. Surviving. Work. Gamble. Work.

He wasn’t fully certain that his brain hadn’t been permanently damaged by his accidental state of hypothermia. He hadn’t even fully recovered. His entire body was still chilly, his mind numb and hazy. But it was fine. It was going to be fine. He didn’t need heat. He didn’t need…

No. Think about work, Aventurine. He told himself as he pulled down the slot machine lever once more. He found that even thinking about anything that happened in the last few hours of his life made him sick with guilt, shame and self-hatred. So he didn’t think about it. He crumbled up his vulnerability into a tiny little ball and let the Aventurine persona take all the space. 

He watched as he won once more, letting out a chuckle. Quickly, he gazed at his watch. It was almost time for his next meeting. Aventurine desperately had to close this deal. He was quite over this mission. He’d be content if he could never see Ratio again after this. He’d be satisfied if he could forget his warmth and understanding. 

What a terrible idea it was to ask for Ratio as his partner. That was certainly a lesson he would not forget. He would only let himself go on solo missions after this. He shouldn’t even have let himself make real connections. He would have to start being mean to Topaz to end their little friendship. It would be better this way. Aventurine would be far more comfortable. He would simply work alone until he finally died.

This had to end, so he needed a plan. The Glasswings’ stance was still annoyingly vague. They seemed open, but not as much as Aventurine needed them to be. He had to completely take over. This would be so much better if he could meet directly with Evander Winslow. Sure, it could end quite horribly, but it could also be incredibly fortuitous. That was a gamble Aventurine would love.

But the elusive puzzle master refused him. Perhaps he was too busy toying with Ratio to negotiate with Aventurine. He did seem to get a kick out of making Ratio run around. When Aventurine thought about it, it appeared as if he simply thrived on confusion. That would explain quite a few things. 

One thing was certain: he needed to see the outside of this planet. The revelations with the window had helped, but he needed more. How was the terrain? Would the extraction of the soil that the IPC desired be complicated? Were the resources, little as they were, being exploited already?

He would have to find a way to ask these questions at his meeting. He would push on the meeting with the Puzzlemaster as well. It seemed it was time to go.

Before heading to the meeting room, he stopped at the bathroom to make sure he looked presentable. He was unusually pale because of his… condition. He wasn’t nearly as flawless as he wished. If the context was different, he would look perfect. But it wasn’t different, so it didn’t matter. 

“What an absolute rubbish of a machine will you…” Ratio spat out, giving the machine a firm push. One of the components clicked and the machine finally turned on. He let out a groan of victory. 

Whilst this lab held more instruments than Ratio would’ve expected, their performance was incredibly questionable. They clearly weren’t used often, making their use janky. Oh, how he longed for his own lab, full of beautiful technology with a familiar procedure. 

He supposed this would have to do. It was already quite rare to have such a space in a hotel, so he would not curse his luck.

“Great to see this lab in use,” someone stated as if they’d read Ratio’s mind.

He looked up and was met with the sight of a young man leaning in the doorframe. Until now, Ratio had been lucky and the lab was empty. Not that he minded sharing the space, as he did so often for some of his research. It was simply easier to work on his project with no one around.

“Are you in need of the space?” Ratio questioned, eyes landing on the butterfly pin the man wore.

Was anyone in this hotel not a Glasswing?

“Oh, no it’s all good. I just never see action in here and I wanted to see what was happening.” He smiled lazily, sauntering closer to Ratio. A long counter was separating the two. 

The man’s posture was relaxed, as if he had not a care in the world. His light auburn hair was slightly messy. “If I’m not interrupting, can I ask what you are working on?”

Ratio hesitated for a second. He wasn’t certain if sharing his now almost completed illusion device with someone of the organization was a good idea. However, he was already suspecting that Evander Winslow was watching him somehow. 

“I am attempting to make a functional device. It is nothing extraordinary and only mildly interesting,” he answered, turning back towards the machine. After placing the device in the center of it, he focused his attention on the commands.

“I see… I trust you are enjoying the celebration then?” The young man asked, leaning closer to watch what Ratio was doing. 

“You will excuse me, but I have no time for your survey. I have quite a busy schedule today,” Ratio snapped, starting to get annoyed by this presence. If this was a fellow genius, he would’ve loved to share his process. However, it was clear that this man was only here to ensure that Ratio was enjoying his time.

Which was, in itself, an interesting question. He wouldn’t say that he was enjoying this mission. However, it wasn’t terrible either. The feeling that surrounded all the events he lived in the past few days was simply confusion. He was confused by the letters, confused by the setting, incredibly confused about Aventurine and confused about his feelings. He disliked this feeling. He always tried to resolve everything with logic, only to end up with a tragic headache. Today, he felt specifically more irritable than on other days. One could say that his morning wasn’t a peaceful one. 

“Ah, no worries Doctor! I’ll leave you to it!” The young man took it rather well, exiting the room slowly.

Ratio barely noticed it. He was too deep in thought under that alabaster head of his. 

Thinking of Aventurine had always been a problem. It was now far more frustrating. Why did he have to be so mysterious and guarded? It was bemusing. His actions were… inconsistent. Most of the time he played the flirty, careless persona only to then let out a side that was inherently different. For example, the way he acted last night. He was afraid, vulnerable, then soft, then clingy. Ratio had yet to reconcile with the fact that he slept the entire night with Aventurine in his arms, only for that same Aventurine to emerge out of the bathroom with self-inflicted hypothermia. Aventurine accepted Ratio’s care, then became defensive and slipped away. 

It was not the first time that Aventurine got this way. Yet nothing rivalled with the terrifying sight of him stumbling out of the bathroom, pale as a ghost and shaking. Aventurine had a talent for scaring the living hell out of Ratio. 

Clearly Ratio was doing something wrong. Most of his recent interactions with Aventurine had ended badly. It especially felt like Ratio had crossed a line with the… cuddling. It could become dangerous.

As much as he tried to ignore it, Ratio had this gnawing feeling of insecurity. It was one that he often shoved away. One that he tried to get rid of constantly, yet it followed him wherever he went. Too much for the common folk, not enough for the genius society. Beautiful and intelligent in appearance, arrogant and blunt in personality. Ratio didn’t quite seem to fit anywhere. Perhaps, as he often thought before, he was simply not good enough for Aventurine. Good to give care, not enough to get close to.

Ratio groaned. A part of his head told him that his life would be far better once this mission was over and Aventurine was away from him. Yet thinking about it made his stomach sink. He didn’t want Aventurine out of his life.

Before he realized it, the machine had completed its work. Eager to switch subjects in his mind, Ratio reached out to his device. He successfully inserted the cylinder device into a rectangular case that held the other components that would allow the cylinder to work. Ratio managed to connect it with his synesthesia beacon earlier. This would (theoretically) allow him to transfer an image from his mind to the device. He was slightly puzzled as to how this worked throughout the entire hotel, but he was quite confident in his experiment.

He rolled the object in his hand. It was slightly bigger than an eraser; easy to carry around, small enough to fit into his pocket. Ratio inspected it thoroughly and came to the conclusion that it was adequate. He could have certainly done better if he were in his usual laboratory, but it was sufficient.

The only thing left to do was to test it. Ratio could only hope that the connection with his synesthesia beacon would function, as he would have to start over if it didn’t.

He held out the device in front of himself, pondering on what to imagine. Perhaps a person? That would be a good start.

Before Ratio had time to think about it further, an image of Aventurine flickered and appeared in front of him. Ratio took a step back, surprised by the appearance. 

Of course he’s the one you think of, Ratio thought to himself in utter discouragement. He shook his head, a soft groan escaping from his mouth. 

The device was clearly not perfect, as the illusion was not projected and rather appeared right where the device was placed. For example, in this current situation, Ratio’s outstretched hand went through the Aventurine illusion. However, it was quite competent. The image was on par with Ratio’s mental image of the gambler. Much less detailed than Aventurine’s actual fashion choices, but it was recognizable.

Nevertheless, it could not be called an authentic copy. Simply because the illusion was greatly influenced by Ratio’s perception of Aventurine. Rather than donning a playful smirk, Illusion Aventurine’s expression was neutral, almost soft. It was natural. His eyes, instead of being filled with mischief, were pensive. He looked in deep reflection. 

Ratio sighed softly. His relationship with Aventurine was becoming muddy, confusing and upsetting. As much as his priority today was to go look in the archives, a part of him felt the need to have a serious conversation with his fiancé. He craved the enlightenment, desired deeply to understand Aventurine. If only he would let him. 

But now was not the time. He released the illusion and hid the device away in his pocket. He would need to experiment further with it. Ratio was not entirely sure of how this would be useful to him. It said so in a letter, but could he really trust the words of that man? That man, who seemed to love being utterly confusing. 

It’s still quite enriching even if it’s of no use. I’m sure I could research this technology further in my lab, Ratio thought. 

A frustrating feeling of helplessness lingered. This little game was particular and Ratio felt, or rather he knew, that he held none of the cards. This bothered him greatly as it let him open to trickery. 

He would have to find a way to outplay Evander Winslow, and soon. 

But for now, he had bigger fish to fry. 

“I apologize but our leader is quite busy. However, I understand your stance. I’ll see what I can do.” The middle aged man across of Aventurine replied with a smile.

This was the expected answer. He understood early in the meeting that this founder was clearly not the smartest one of the bunch. However, it made Aventurine’s job a bit easier. 

“What a shame, truly!” Aventurine shook his head lightly, keeping his tone playful. “I must say, perhaps the IPC should have sent a lower ranked employee to solve this matter. Surely Evander Winslow didn’t turn his attention towards the Stonehearts just to play ghost! I’m sure such a disrespect would not be his intention!”

Aventurine ended his sentence with a small smile and watched the man’s gaze change. At least he seemed to understand the message Aventurine was trying to convey. 

This hadn’t been a complete waste of time. He managed to learn a tad more about the outside. Nothing that was hugely prevalent, only that the population was quite dense.

“Of course not! I will stress the issue with him once again. Surely a reminder wouldn’t be harmful!” The man’s laughter was nervous and his posture was tight. His eyes were darting quickly from place to place which indicated that he was making a promise he could not hold. 

How interesting, Aventurine thought. This representative was reacting with such worry that it begged the question of if he had access to Evander Winslow at all. 

“Unless, of course, you are unable to reach him?” Aventurine tapped his finger lightly on the table. His guess was confirmed as the man’s eyes widened.

“That would… not be the present issue. You will hear from me whenever I have news!” He started gathering his folders quickly. “I apologize but I shall be on my way. Other tasks await me.” 

“Oh of course! I suppose we’ll be in touch then!” Aventurine lazily got up while the other man left the room promptly.

Amateur, he chuckled to himself. The way some people put their emotions and thoughts on full display was frankly astonishing. Aventurine could’ve never imagined being so open. Why would one choose to display their weaknesses and let themselves be exposed to manipulation? 

He supposed not everyone had a great training like him. The marvellous thing with this technique was that the common folk would never even understand the game Aventurine was playing. He could fake emotions so well, letting his target grasp onto any display of fabricated feeling. People always thought they had the upper hand and yet, the couldn’t even perceive the grand scheme of things.

Aventurine stepped out. He walked the hallway for a good ten seconds before realizing that he didn’t have a clue of where he was going. 

Now that his meeting was over, his day was completely free. 

He knew one thing for sure: he refused to go back to the hotel room. Just the thought of it almost filled him with dread. 

He considered the casino for a moment but quickly decided against. He was well aware that it would be better if he was productive instead of hiding relaxing in the casino. 

He was then hit by the realization that he was incredibly hungry. Because he’d forgotten to eat breakfast. Again. 

Aventurine could almost hear Ratio scolding him for a split second before he blocked the thought from reaching his brain. 

But it was fine. He would simply go get a meal at one of the restaurants. Surely a late lunch wasn’t unusual…

It would give him time and peace to work out a plan with all the current information he held. He was on the verge of looking for Evander Winslow himself. The critical lack of information on him was the biggest problem with this mission. Aventurine had to admit that the founder of the Glasswings knew how to play the game. 

But no one played like Aventurine. 

He arrived at the same restaurant he and… his business partner had eaten on the first night. This would do. 

Before he could step through the door, loud voices reached Aventurine’s ears.

“…can’t do this! I can’t be seen with you! I’m in the organization, in case you’ve forgotten!” A young voice uttered. It was clearly a teenager. Aventurine could’ve sworn that it was familiar somehow. 

“As if I could! Sweetie, listen…” This voice however, Aventurine knew it. It was Nadia.

“Don’t call me that I’m not a kid! You’re disrupting Glasswing operations! I could get you fired for this!” The young girl spit out, interrupting the older woman.

“Stella, you’re not serious! You know what these people do! You cant have forgotten it so quickly!” Nadia protested.

Aventurine froze. This felt like a terrible moment to enter the restaurant. He stood there, out of sight and waited silently. Maybe he should go look at another restaurant to avoid this awkward encounter…

“Don’t you dare speak against them! I’ve made my choice! The Glasswings give me honourable work! Ive learnt more than I ever could out there!” The young voice answered sharply before Aventurine could decide. A part of him was a bit invested in this conversation. Especially with the mention of the outside.

“Stella…” Nadia audibly sighed. “You think I can’t tell that you’re exhausted? How long has it been since they’ve given you a break?”

“Longer than you, I can see. This conversation is over. Get back to work.” Aventurine almost flinched at the harshness of the girls tone. 

Before he could react, Nadia was stepping out of the restaurant, eyes full of tears. The frail woman jumped as she noticed him, letting out a small gasp. She looked away quickly, sighing deeply. A nod of acknowledgment was all she gave Aventurine.

“Ah! Splendid! I am in need of assistance.” Aventurine jumped on the first excuse he could. “Would you walk with me for a minute?”

Nadia frowned then nodded slightly. She was already walking before Aventurine had registered her answer.

His mind was definitely not quick today. 

He followed suit, putting his hands in his pockets nonchalantly. 

“May I assume, sir, that you’ve heard everything?” Her frank way of speaking was surprising. It was almost as if the state of constant fear she used to be in had dissipated to leave only anger in it’s wake. Aventurine couldn’t blame her.

“I have. I greatly apologize for eavesdropping, but I was wondering if you were alright.” Aventurine answered calmly, offering her an empathetic smile. 

Nadia ran her hands in her ruby hair, shaking her head softly. The way she was holding herself was drastically different than usual. She was clearly shaken up. Aventurine wasn’t lying, this did worry him. After all, he appreciated Nadia, even they hadn’t talked much. 

“My daughter.” The pain in her voice was apparent. There was a silence as Nadia’s pace slowed. “They’ve taken my daughter. I don’t even recognize her anymore.”

She choked out a sob. Aventurine’s numb heart ached for her. 

“I’ve tried my hardest, I have but…” Nadia heaved, coming to a stop as she let the tears fall. Then, as quickly as they had came, she wiped them. “My apologies. This is none of your business. How may I assist you?”

“It might not be, but I care. They can’t know but…” Aventurine placed himself in front of the woman and allowed himself to place his hands on her shoulder. He hoped it would be comforting. “I am not on their side. You’ve helped me a lot Nadia, so tell me how I can help you. What can I do for your daughter? I’ll do it. Anything you need.”

As Aventurine uttered it, he knew that he intended on keeping his promise, whatever the cost. He would send them both to another planet if they so desired. He would do it with every one of the employee if he needed. He remembered what feeling trapped did to someone.

She looked at Aventurine in silence. Nadia had gone still, tears falling on her cheeks silently. Her eyes narrowed slightly, as if she was reflecting. Aventurine appreciated the fact that she hadn’t immediately refused.

“It’s too late for her. But…” Her eyes met Aventurine’s. “Your fiancé, he is a professor, yes?”

The mention of Ratio (especially as his fiancé) made Aventurine’s heart jump. But not a jump of happiness, rather a jump of complete anguish. He swallowed, trying to put his anxiety thoughts away for Nadia’s sake.

“He is, university level. He has eight doctorates!” He then realized that perhaps bragging was a bit out of place. “He has a rough exterior but he’s very kind inside!”

A little bit too much, Aventurine thought to himself. Then suddenly his mind was filled with the memory of his warmth and kindness. Get a grip Aventurine. Worst moment ever to be doing this.

So he shoved the feelings back in their vault. 

“If you allow me to make a request, then I have one.” A deep breath coursed through Nadia. She looked up at Aventurine, a glimmer of determination in her eyes. “It would be an incredible favour to the children if Gahfnar to have a teacher. It is much more rudimentary than your fiancés teaching, but we need it. Just a day of learning would make a tremendous difference.”

Aventurine’s eyes widened at the request. It was not a light task, but he understood the demand. His own lack of knowledge had been a problem when Jade had recruited him. He deeply wanted to grant it. However, it was entirely contingent on Ratio. Would he be up for it? Not only that, but would he even be able to teach basic subjects? Would he find the idea ridiculous and a waste of his time? Aventurine could only hope that he wouldn’t be offended by the demand… 

“I will do everything in my power for it to happen. When would be better for you?”

“In two days from now, I get my monthly day off. I can get us out of here using the employee tunnels. If he agrees, find me on the top floor around midnight. We’ll make a plan.” The fearful Nadia had now completely disappeared. Perhaps talking to her daughter had been her last straw. Whatever it was, she now donned a strong attitude. 

“I will see you tonight then!”

His tone was far more confident than he was, but Nadia didn’t need to know that. She nodded, walking away decidedly. 

Aventurine decided to pick another restaurant to have his lunch.

The second floor of the hotel was deathly quiet. Ratio had turned into a corridor labelled CONFERENCE ROOMS. All rooms were empty. There was not a single person in sight, not even housekeeping. 

However, he was not complaining. It would be far easier to enter the archives without a soul around.

Speaking of the archives, its door was standing tall at the end of the hallway. It was banal, resembling all other doors in the hotel. The only thing that differed was the finely printed red text indicating Archive room. 

The question that remained was: why wasn’t this room in the basement? In the levels only reserved to the Glasswings? It was quite odd. Surely, the public did not need to access this type of data. So why was it such in the open? With only a crystal lock separating it from the common folk.

Ratio came to a stop in front of it. He eyed it again, trying to find any other mechanism that needed opening.

“I’m sorry sir but you’re not allowed in this room.” A voice brutally shattered the silence. Ratio turned towards it swiftly, only to be met with the same young man that had interrupted him in the lab. “This place is reserved to the organization.” 

The man’s relaxed smile and nonchalant demeanour hadn’t changed, however his tone had shifted. Ratio noted more authority in it. 

But that did not mean it would work on him. 

“I have business here.” He stated loudly and plainly. It was the truth. However, he wasn’t quite sure of how well the Glasswings would take the theft of their key, even if it had been orchestrated by their leader.

“Oh, it must be a mistake. All meetings or order of business take place in the conference rooms, I can guide you there if you wish.” The man took a few steps towards Ratio. They stared at each other for a long second. It was evident that it wouldn’t be easy to convince this man. 

Ratio found himself pondering on his role in the organization. He was clearly not a server or a worker of the sort, so he must’ve been higher ranked. 

What shall he do now? It was imperative for him to enter the archives. It was the most tangible and meaningful clue he’d receive yet. This might actually give him information on the location of his research. 

Explaining the way he came to the conclusion of the archives would take far too much time. He was also not entirely certain of the truthfulness of his interpretation. However he did trust his gut, which told him this was the direction he was supposed to be taking.

“Are you certain that entry is denied? I am positive that this is where I must be.” Ratio reiterated, starting to feel impatient. Of course, it wouldn’t have been easy. At least it entertained his mind. 

“Unless you’re a Glasswing, I can’t let you enter. My apologies. If you’d just follow me over here, I’m sure the conference room you’re looking for is right in this hallway.” The man started walking in the hall, beckoning Ratio to follow him.

Ratio narrowed his eyes for a second, then understanding dawned on him. This was why he needed the illusion device. The man had been very intentional with his words. Perhaps he was sent by the Puzzlemaster himself to keep tabs on Ratio. 

This realization made him feel sour, but he followed the man nonetheless. He would have to wait to be left alone in order to utilize his device. It seemed he could only hope that it would work properly. 

After they passed a few rooms, Ratio explained:

“Ah! Why yes. It seems you were right. This does happen to be the conference room in which was planned my meeting. It seems my memory was hazy, I apologize.” He kept the same tone as usual, unused to acting surprised. This would have been a piece of cake for Aventurine.

He was kidding himself. Aventurine would have found a way to persuade this man to let him in. No, not even. Aventurine would already know Evander Winslow’s exact plan and countered it.

But he was not Aventurine, therefore he would keep doing things his way. Even if it was far slower than he desired. 

“No worries! Glad to have helped.” The man turned back towards Ratio, a cocky smile on his lips. He clearly thought himself superior at this very instant. However, there was an underlying, more sinister expression as well. This caused Ratio to squint slightly, but he brushed it off and entered the room. 

It was standard reunion room, with a large rounded table and a multitude of chairs. Overall, it was quite banal. 

Ratio heard the man walking back towards the archives. He took a seat, knowing that he would need to wait a few moments in order to dispel suspicions. He found himself sitting in silence, fiddling with his ring. 

His “wedding” ring from his “fiancé”. The one that was chosen with such care that it was exactly to Ratio’s taste. The one who fit perfectly on his ring finger. The one that looked like it was made for him.

But why was he getting hung up on this object? Obviously, it was a beautiful gift. A thoughtful gift, but simply a gift nonetheless. Nothing that should be making his stomach sink. 

His idiotic brain kept insisting on thinking about Aventurine. It was starting to be incredibly bothersome and distracting. It was also rather particular. Ratio had never felt such anguish towards someone before. It appeared that his emotional regulation was perhaps not as strong as he thought. 

He pushed the thoughts aside for the hundredth time today and pulled out the illusion device. He toyed with it until he deemed that enough time had passed. Now all he needed was to find a way to project what he wanted. 

It had to be a Glasswing, that much was clear. The use of the device was also particular, which he would need to accommodate. He immediately pushed aside the idea of projecting the woman from whom he’d stolen the key from, simply because she was far shorter than him. The illusion would need to cover his entire body, or else it would not work.

The organization seemed of sufficient magnitude. If he were to make himself a fake appearance, he doubted that anyone would notice. Perhaps that was the better course of action, then. 

Ratio tried to picture a man of his stature but with different features. A softer face, bigger eyes, different nose, shorter hair. He detailed every single aspect of this fake persona in his mind until he could completely imagine it. 

He turned on the device, praying to Nous that it would function properly. He felt it get activated and tried to find how to keep it on himself. Since it did not project, he would need to have it in the middle of himself. 

Ratio looked down to himself, only to be surprised by the flickering sight of a black suit around him.

This could be a good sign. He would take it as one. He patted himself until he came in contact with his belt. It took him a few minutes to figure out a way to attach it, but it was worth it. When he pulled out his phone to verify his appearance, he was astounded by the result. The image he thought of came to life perfectly. He was now a completely different man. 

He allowed himself a proud smile. At least he could still do this right

Ratio walked out of the conference room shyly, trying to depict a different personality than his. He was clearly not the best at doing this, but he believed it would do. Now that he thought about it, he had pretended in this way on Penacony as well. Surely he retained some of his skills. The walk to the archives was short. The same man as earlier welcomed him, lurking in the hallway. Truly, he seemed to have no other purpose but to be in Ratio’s way. This had to be arranged, he was certain of it.

The man’s eyes lit up as he saw Ratio. He straightened his posture, waving lazily at Ratio. This had to mean that the illusion was still working. He could only hope as much.

“Good afternoon to you! Business in the archives?” There was a glint in his eyes as he spoke. 

What a strange man.

“Yes. She gave me the key.” Ratio kept his words direct and tried to speak them far softer than he usually did. It seemed to work as the other man nodded, moving slightly to the side.

“Ah, perfect! Go right in.” 

Ratio nodded in what he hoped was a timid way and obliged, pulling the key out of the his pocket and promptly opening the door. He slipped inside quickly and slammed the door, letting out a huff of relief. 

This had stressed him more than he realized. He took a deep breath, focusing on the new environment instead. 

The ambiance of this room was far different than every other place in the hotel. It was rather spacious, with floor to ceiling metal drawers. They surely contained a plethora of files. The room was only dimly lit by a few lamps scattered around and the light from the windows.

The fake light, at least. 

He turned off the illusion device, securing it in his pocket. All that was left to do now was to find any information on where his research was stored, or his research itself. 

The IPC’s data chips were particular. They could be hacked, but the information they contained could not be extracted. Only IPC computers were able to access the content stored inside the chip. This did not assure that no copy would be made, however. Ratio had not a clue if the Glasswings had somehow procured themself an IPC computer. In this case, his task was to find his research and its copy and delete the duplication. He would simply bring the original data chip with him and all would be well.

All that was left to do was to decide where to get started. 

The computer that was tucked away in the corner of the room seemed to be a good idea. He could begin by looking for a copy, then try to locate his real research. 

It took him two hours to thoroughly search the computer. Two hours of opening files, reading through them and finding absolutely nothing.

Nothing relevant to his research, that was. However, he did find some interesting files. 

His mind was starting to numb as he opened the folder containing exportations and importations records. Ratio had absentmindedly opened the document containing the latest importation reports. He scanned it quickly, but the frowned as he realized something. Quickly, he scrolled back to the start of the document.

The hotel was importing a massive amount of materials. He was not shocked by the level of food  and goods or other things as such, as they were normal for a hotel of such a scale. However, a large part of what the hotel received was… construction materials? 

No, not quite. Ratio narrowed his eyes as he went through the list again. Many names were familiar. They were materials that he sometimes used for his experiments. For example, they had unfathomable quantities of a specific ore, different metals, even a few different gasses. There was also real construction materials in the list, but even then, they were in such large quantities that it was very abnormal. As far as he knew, there was no renovations in the hotel.

Ratio was invaded by a sinking feeling. This could not be a good sign. In fact, he had a terrible feeling about this ordeal. These motley materials were so specific that it could only end poorly. 

Finding where these materials were sent was, apparently, impossible. He could find a document for every single other thing, but not these strange things. It made them far more suspicious. 

Even if Ratio was unable to find what they were for, he was not going to give up. He took out his notebook and wrote down the name of each thing on this list. He would need to thoroughly research this when he had more time. 

It was starting to get late and hunger was slowly creeping on him. As for his research, it was obvious enough that there was not a copy of it on this computer. It was a good thing, after all. 

Ratio was starting to understand that he would not be finding his research here at all. It would be far too easy. But then, this begged the question: what was he supposed to find in the archives? He was lacking context on this entire ordeal. 

Or perhaps he utterly misunderstood the clue. 

Ratio let out a frustrated groan. Perhaps his best option was to await the next clue. Even if he missed a detail, he was certain that Evander Winslow would rub it in his face. Ratio decided that he did not care about that. 

He shut off the computer then spent a few more minutes looking through a  box of data chips and usb ports. He proved his theory by finding absolutely nothing. 

Time to move on, then. 

He was unsure of Aventurine’s whereabouts. Ever since this morning, it had been radio silence between the two. Ratio deemed necessary to break this. They had to talk and he did not want to drag the conversation out.

Dr. Ratio

If you are not busy, meet me in the hotel room for diner. I believe we have things to talk about.

Hopefully this would suffice. With a final condescending glare to archive room, Ratio closed the door behind him.

The buzzing of his phone surprised Aventurine.

He looked away from his computer screen, blinking a few times to make his head work again. He’d spent so much time thinking of a plan that he simply spaced out. Groaning, he ran his hands through his hair and sighed.

Aventurine’s heart skipped a beat once he saw Ratio’s contact name. He practically jumped out of his chair, slamming the phone down on the table of the restaurant. 

This is pathetic Aventurine, he told himself. He was acutely aware that he was acting ridiculous, yet it was almost as if he couldn’t help it. Quickly, he looked around to make sure no one saw him get scared of a text message.

As always, he was lucky. The cafe had been mostly empty since he’d arrived, so he let out a sigh and turned back to his phone. 

It was lying there on the table, seemingly innocent. Aventurine knew better. The device might contain the object of Ratio’s disapproval, his rejection, or even worse: his worry. Picking up the phone and reading the text could be lethal to Aventurine. 

Or it could just be Ratio updating him about his findings in the most dry way possible. Which would be utterly platonic, boring and safe. 

In a sense, opening the message was a gamble. So obviously, Aventurine couldn’t not open it. 

Why was it that gambling his life was easier than gambling his emotions?

He could do this. For once, perhaps his luck would be useful and it would spare him. He’d stumble on a few formally written phrases and he wouldn’t have to face Ratio.

Ever so slowly, he creeped close to his phone, then grabbed it quickly. Aventurine took a deep breath and opened the message.

Of course, his luck gave out at this exact moment. 

“We have things to talk about.” 

Aventurine groaned in anguish. That was a terrible sign. If Ratio only wanted to share his findings, he would have specified so. The fact that he simply said things meant that there was more to it.

Not only this, but he also requested for Aventurine to meet him in the hotel room. It could only mean that he was expecting Aventurine to cause a scene or something of the sort. 

He sat back down, putting his phone next to him. Until now, he’d marvellously managed to wipe his business partner of his thoughts. They’d all been focused on work, other than after his talk with Nadia. 

But all of that beautiful work was now ruined. As much as he tried to avoid it, his hands were shaking slightly, his stomach felt uneasy and his entire body tightened like it wanted to protect himself. 

He forgot for a second that he was supposed to respond to the message. 

Alright, deep breath. It was crucial that his Aventurine persona was flawless around Ratio. There couldn’t have any cracks, any imperfections. He had to be, without a doubt, the exuberant, flirty, careless gambler. 

No Kakavasha. No weakness. 

He considered making up a lie to avoid Ratio until it was time for bed, but he knew that he’d have to face the other man eventually. He might as well rip off the bandage. 

He typed an answer that he hoped was neutral enough not to give away his anxiety. There was no need to wow Ratio with a text message. The essential would be to do it in person. Hopefully Aventurine’s charm would be enough to convince a genius to go out to teach basic level academics. 

Aventurine

I’ll be there in a few minutes.

After that was done, he turned back to his computer and the notes on its screens. Aventurine had meticulously gathered all the information he held in order to try and come up with a plan. He had ideas but nothing quite as complete as he would’ve liked. However, Nadia had offered him the perfect opportunity to leave the confines of the hotel, which made it crucial for Ratio to accept the offer.

Which meant that all he needed to do was to go see Ratio. 

Aventurine gathered his things and promptly started walking towards the room. He took deep breaths as he walked, perfecting his mask.

Relaxed posture, lazy smile, flamboyant attire and teasing eyes. Not an ounce of doubt. Confident, charming, beautiful, desired.

That’s what he was. A powerful Stoneheart.

He reinforced the image of it in his head until he was standing in front of the door of their room and its heart shaped door handles.

It was showtime.

He opened the door and made it to the kitchen, only to be welcomed by Ratio leaning on the side of the counter, arms crossed and gaze severe. 

Aventurine didn’t miss the fact that he looked really good. For no apparent reason, because Ratio just did that. 

The doctor’s eyes narrowed once he saw Aventurine.

“My my doc! With those eyes, I’ll take a gamble and say that your findings aren’t optimal.” Aventurine declared, his voice far more relaxed than he was. 

Ratio only seemed to get more irritated by the comment however. He looked intensely through Aventurine in silence.

It made him uneasy.

“Aw come on, you’re not giving me the silent treatment are you?” Aventurine walked closer until he was standing maybe a bit too close to Ratio. “It would be such a shame to be deprived of your beautiful rich voice…”

Aventurine let out a fake sigh and allowed himself a slight smirk. With the way Ratio reacted to compliments, he knew that one would work wonders. 

But he was quickly proven false by Ratio’s unmoving expression. There wasn’t even a hint of blush on the man’s sharp features. 

Aventurine narrowed his eyes slightly, confused at the lack of reaction. It was his turn to observe Ratio in silence.

“Would you please drop it? We have serious matters to discuss.” Ratio stated in his usual sharp tone. Aventurine sensed an underlying harshness, however. 

He didn’t like it. He didn’t like it at all. He swallowed, blinking once and focusing on keeping up his persona. 

“Oh, I do agree with that, but can you really blame me for complimenting such a handsome man? One that happens to be my fiancé, nonetheless!” 

Aventurine’s words incited an instant  groan out of Ratio. The man shook his head, stepping away from Aventurine. 

“You know very well that I am not talking about the compliments. I am talking about the way you are acting! I wish to converse with you, not Aventurine of stratagems.” Ratio threw the words in Aventurine’s face and they hit him like a ton of bricks. 

He blinked some more, trying to control his reaction and keep his face neutral. However this was incredibly surprising, even though it technically shouldn’t be. 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Aventurine lied, scoffing. Ratio was now on the other side of the counter. 

“Gambler, please. All I am asking of you is one simple conversation where you don’t make everything astronomically more complicated than it needs to be.” Ratio leaned closer. “And if you keep this act up, I swear to Nous I am going to leave you alone on this aeonforsaken planet.”

Ratio’s words caused a visceral reaction inside of Aventurine. Before he could reason with himself, he was already shouting.

“Leave me then! I don’t care! I don’t need you!” 

The silence that followed was deafening. The realization of what he just did cause Aventurine to cross his arms around himself. He looked down, letting the persona fall like Ratio had asked. 

It was useless if Ratio didn’t believe it. 

Great job at fucking up. He was so incredibly pathetic. How was it possible that one sentence brought down all of his walls and incited such a reaction out of himself? Aventurine could not allow this. He needed to fix it somehow…

The other man had stilled, looking at Aventurine with a slightly softened expression.

“I have approached this conversation in the worst way possible. I apologize.  Perhaps we should decide on tonight’s meal and afterwards we can start over.” 

Aventurine avoided Ratio’s eyes. He contemplated the words for a moment. He absolutely despised the way in which the doctor had disarmed him in a few minutes. It was horrible. It proved that the vulnerability Aventurine had showed in front of Ratio had lingered.

It made this conversation even more sour. 

He couldn’t do this. He had to leave right at this instant. He felt the fear and the guilt creep inside every fiver of his being, yelling at him to run. Run like all the other times. 

He didn’t deserve Ratio’s kindness. He didn’t want to explain himself. He didn’t want to feel any of the turmoil that this mission had caused. Being vulnerable with Ratio was what had gotten him into this mess in the first place. Why on Sigonia would he willingly chose to do it again?

He turned around, heading towards the door. 

“Aventurine!” Ratio stopped him, grasping his shoulder firmly. Aventurine flinched at the contact, making Ratio pull away. “Please, do not flee again. I apologize. I am a sharp, blunt man which is not ideal right now. I did not mean to offend. I simply wish to converse with you.”

Aventurine felt his throat tightening. Even with his back turned to Ratio, he could feel his strong presence. The same presence that had felt like home after his nightmare, the same one who held Aventurine safely in his arms the entire night. The man who cared fiercely about his health, even if they were only coworkers. The man who’s words had saved him in the nihility. 

Aventurine shut his eyes tightly to stop the tears from falling. A part of him wanted nothing more than to let go of the persona and feel Ratio’s warmth again. He wanted to let him in. In a sense, he did owe Ratio for all the care he’d given Aventurine. But the walls were too high, he would never manage. He was afraid that they would crumble.

“What if I don’t want to talk?” Aventurine mumbled. He couldn’t manage to face Ratio.

“Then I won’t force you to. I have simply been feeling like our relationship is becoming… complex. It is important to me to discuss this morning’s events. I simply wish to understand your point of view and to clarify any miscommunication.” It seemed so innocent in the way Ratio framed it, but Aventurine knew it would hurt. 

The last thing on earth he wished to do was to show Ratio just how ugly, messy and utterly broken he was. 

Ratio was a good man. A kind man. One that Aventurine hated disappointing. One who’s judgement he wouldn’t be able to take. 

Maybe he didn’t have to show it all, but just enough. After all, it was about time for Ratio to realize that Aventurine was a lost cause. 

If Ratio did leave upon understanding how fucked up Aventurine was, it would be for the better. It would hurt, but only for a little bit. Then Aventurine could be a hollow shell with no feelings again.

“What about pasta?” Aventurine said weakly. He watched as Ratio understood what he was trying to convey.

“That would be quite satisfactory.” He stepped away from Aventurine and and pulled out the room service menu.

Aventurine took a few deep breaths before joining him.

A few minutes later, the two men were sitting across of each other, plates of pasta in front of each and a bowl of garlic bread separating them. 

Aventurine wasn’t even sure that he’d be able to eat any of it. It was like his body had closed off all functions that weren’t his head and his emotions. He wasn’t even sure that he was breathing. 

“Let me start this on a better foot than earlier.” Ratio spoke more calmly than he did usually. “It seems that lately, I have been doing something that bothers you. I am quite aware of my bluntness, however there seems to be something more. I do not wish to push you away.” 

The knot in Aventurine’s throat was so tight that he was almost unable to speak. He took a deep breath. 

“You mean… like when I left this morning? It’s not… you. I mean, I guess you strike sensitive chords sometimes but I’m used to that. It’s more that I’m… afraid.”

He let out a self deprecating laugh.

“The things you’ve seen… last night… I have never showed them to anyone. I cant show them.”

Ratio hummed softly in response. He was clearly pensive. Aventurine’s mind (looking for a distraction) focused on how beautiful he was when he was in reflection. 

“Why is that?”

“Because…” Aventurine took a moment to think. He had never verbalized any of these things and it was far more serious than the conversations he usually had. “Everything is gonna fall apart if I do. There’s…”

He swallowed hardly, looking away. The words, the feelings, they were all weighing heavy in his chest. 

“There’s things I’m not ready to talk about. All you need to understand is that I am insane.” He leaned towards Ratio, trying to convey his message clearly. “I am not a good person. I am not sane in the slightest way. I don’t even know what I am. I have frequent nightmares, I admit it, but you can’t tell this to anyone.”

He backed up and sat tightly in his chair awaiting Ratio’s response. His words were blurted out, so he wasn’t even sure that Ratio understood any of it. He was ready for the degrading words, ready to give far enough examples to convince Ratio to run away from him as fast as possible. Ready for all the questions that would hurt.

“You are protecting yourself.” There was not an ounce of judgement in Ratio’s voice. Instead, it was analytic. Aventurine should’ve expected that. “I deeply apologize if I have hurt you unconsciously.” 

That was a surprise. Not a single person had ever apologized for hurting him, and here was Ratio doing it even though he was about the only person that had never hurt Aventurine.

He opened his mouth than closed it, finding nothing to say. 

“You… no I don’t…” He shook his head vigorously. “You haven’t hurt me I just…”

“You can tell me if I have, I will not take offence. I would like you to consider me a safe space in the future, therefore I need to be informed on what causes you pain.” Ratio spoke so matter-of-factly, as if he hadn’t just confessed to wanting to be a safe space for Aventurine.

Is he insane? Was all Aventurine could manage to think. Who in their right mind would want to be safe for a casino-hopping train-wreck with personality problems?

“You don’t I just get… scared. It’s like… fight or flight.  It’s not a big deal okay?” He ran his hands through his hair, head starting to hurt. He was already emotionally drained and it hadn’t been more than ten minutes. “I don’t know if I can answer anything more I…”

“I understand. Can I ask one thing of you?” Ratio waited for Aventurine to nod, then continued. “I would appreciate it if the next time you are scared, you let me know instead of running off. I believe this would aid our working relationship.” 

Slightly defeated, heavily confused, Aventurine sighed and nodded. He was not sure that he could actually communicate his feelings with Ratio, but he wasn’t going to say refuse him.

Why was this such a non-issue for the man across of him? Ratio hadn’t cared about any of the ways Aventurine described himself, not even questioning him further than the explanations he was giving. He hadn’t tried to dig deeper.

His head was really hurting now. 

“Do you uh… mind if I change the subject?” He asked timidly. 

“Not at all. I appreciate the information you’ve given me. Thank you.”

“Great then… because this might make you really angry.” Aventurine smiled feasibly to Ratio, cowering in the way his glare became sharp once more.

“Have you caused yourself more harm?” 

“No! No, it’s nothing like that… I just… I saw Nadia today. She’s the worker I met the other night. She has… requested something. Of me, but mostly of you…”

Aventurine tried to take a bite of garlic bread, realizing that he was now hungry. He also wanted it to diffuse the tension, to bring things back to normal.

“Go on.”

“What would you say if I told you that she’d like you to teach the children outside of the hotel? And not physics or anything… basic maths and reading.” Aventurine ended his sentence with a hopeful smile.

Ratio’s face twisted in surprise and Aventurine couldn’t tell if it was good or bad.

“What on Nous made you believe that this proposition would make me angry?” Ratio was obviously astounded, voice blaring through the room. “I would love nothing more than to provide these children with proper education. That is… my entire life mission Aventurine. How could you ever think that I would refuse?!”

Aventurine was just as shocked by this answer.

“But… you always talk of fools and idiots… I thought you might see it as an insult to teach basic academics…” 

“Utter nonsense!” Ratio sighed, bringing a hand to his forehead. “Everyone misunderstands what I mean by fools. Fools are people who are willingly ignorant and choose not to educate themselves. This situation is completely different! These people haven’t had the choice of being educated at all! They are no fools! They are deserving of decent education to be able to make their own choices. It is the same thing for students who try their hardest to succeed. Even if they do not succeed, they are no fools because they are trying.”

Ratio now not only looked shocked, he looked offended. Aventurine frowned. He really did misread the doctor then. He really wasn’t so snob, but rather passionate about his work.

“So, can I take that as a yes?”

“Obviously! When is this planned? I will prepare materials. There must be books around here that I can utilize.” He now did not seem offended, but rather excited. Ratio’s eyes were glimmering in a way that made Aventurine’s breath hitch.

“She said in two days from now, she can take us outside. I am… really happy that you accept.” Aventurine smiled for the first time today.

“Count on me to cure ignorance. Now, I will need a lesson plan…” Ratio was evidently gone in his head for the rest of diner.

Aventurine let out a breath. With it, he let out some of the fear, stress and anxiety that were haunting him all day. After this long, excruciating day, he let out a laugh at Ratio’s excitement. A part of him was relieved. He was still confused, but he didn’t feel like fleeing his fiancé anymore. 

Which meant that he was now trudging a dangerous path. He could already feel that his attachment to Ratio had grown since the start of the mission. 

But who knew. Maybe it would all end well.