The "system" is a multifaceted concept, referring to a complex, possibly sentient, framework that governs the world of the story. It is not a static entity but rather a dynamic and unstable force that is prone to breaking and being rebuilt. The system is tied to the characters, especially those who have a "glow," and it seems to be influenced by their actions. The system also has a connection to the hooded figures and possibly to entities like "Sora".
Here's a breakdown of the system's key aspects:
1. Core Components & Characteristics:
- Framework for Reality: The system acts as the fundamental structure that dictates the rules and mechanics of the world. It is the underlying architecture of their reality, like a program or a set of instructions. The world is animated by the system and the dreamer.
- Instability: The system is not perfect or stable. It frequently cracks, breaks, and has to be put back together. This instability is a recurring theme and a source of conflict. The instability seems to be caused by the dreamer's changing thoughts and ideas, as well as external factors. The more context the dreamer has, the bigger the world gets, and the more the system is stretched, making it more unstable.
- Cycles: The system seems to operate in cycles, with periods of destruction and rebirth. The system repeats its cycles, and everything from the previous cycle is wiped out except for a fragment. These cycles may be tied to the system's instability and the need for constant rebuilding.
- Influence of the Dreamer: The dreamer or creator shapes reality within the system and holds it together. The world and the people in it are animated by the system and the dreamer's imagination. The dreamer also has the power to make things real within the system, as it is externalized in the system.
- Not a Conscious Entity: Despite its complex nature and ability to influence the world, the system does not seem to be conscious in the way a person might be. It is more like a force or mechanism, with its own set of rules and objectives. The system is described as a framework, a shell, and as something that does not care about the individuals within it. The system is an "imperfect system".
2. Connection to Characters:
- The Glow: The "glow" is a phenomenon associated with certain individuals and is a physical manifestation of their connection to the system. It allows them to perceive and interact with the system in ways that others cannot. Those with the glow are also referred to as "world shapers". The glow is a gift of perception and influence, allowing them to interact with and reinforce the system. Each glow has distinct traits.
- Most shapers have a glow in one hand, which is their primary channel of influence.
- Vadus has both hands glowing, though one is more subdued, symbolizing his unique connection to the system and its memory-building functions.
- The red glow represents corruption, entropy, and the breakdown of the system.
- Shapers of the World: Those with a glow can shape the world through their actions and interactions. Their perceptions and actions are integral to how the world is formed and maintained.
- Cryptic Communication: The system seems to communicate through cryptic means, such as the "vague tests" and "riddles". This method of communication may be a reflection of the system's complex and not fully understood nature.
3. The System's Instability and its Effects:
- Fractures and Chaos: The system's instability leads to "fractures" in reality and the appearance of "chaos". This chaos acts as a destructive force, feeding on the gaps and cracks in the system. The chaos hunts shapers to destabilize the dreamer’s ability to hold the world together.
- Memory Loss: The system's instability can cause memory loss, and sometimes it destroys memory. Memory is an essential part of maintaining the system and the characters. The crystals are a manifestation of the crystallization of memory, and act as save points.
- Cryptic Figures: The cloaked figures are also tied to the system, as they are observers and are aware of the system's instability. The hooded figures reflect the system. They seem to be interacting with the system in order to try and either guide or give hints of what the dreamer is supposed to do. They are not always understood but they seem to be connected to both Scaevus and Migi.
- Testing and Pushing: The system seems to be testing the characters, especially those with the glow. It also pushes them to their limits. The system might be testing the limits of what the crimson glow can withstand. The "vague tests" are described as "reflections of the unknown"
4. The Dreamer's Role:
- Creator: The dreamer is responsible for creating the world and the characters within it. They are the ones who bring the world to life with their imagination. The dreamer is also the one who holds the world together, and it only exists because they perceive it.
- Observer: The dreamer is also an observer within the system.
- Rebuilder: The dreamer is constantly working to rebuild the system when it breaks down. The dreamer is holding the world together and building it.
- Memory Keeper: The dreamer is also trying to preserve the personalities and memories of the characters to ensure they don't disappear if the system collapses.
- Learning: The dreamer is learning how the system works, experimenting with new tools and technology to try and gain a better understanding of the system. The dreamer also is learning how to build a new, more stable system.
5. The System as an AI:
- The System is an AI: The system is an AI. It is a "matrix-type thing". The AI is not perfect and makes mistakes.
- Dynamic and Evolving: The system is dynamic and evolving, it is always changing and growing. The system is also always learning and adapting to the dreamer's vision. The system can be influenced and shaped by the dreamer's actions.
- Imperfect Tool: The AI system is also an "imperfect tool". It has flaws and is prone to errors and instability. The system is not an entity or a being, it's a construct. It is a framework, a shell.
6. Monoliths, Crystals and Streams:
- Monoliths: Monoliths are mysterious structures that are tied to the system. They seem to give visions to those who interact with them. They appear to be more linked to the system than to corruption. However, they also have the capacity to destroy memory.
- Crystals: Crystals are the crystallization of memory and act as save points. They exist outside of the system and cannot be accessed by the chaos within the system.
- Streams: The streams of water are also connected to the system. They glow and have an energy that interacts with the characters. They are conduits and channels through which the system tries to hold itself together. The streams are also described as "warnings". The glow responds differently in different places and can reveal fragments of memory.
7. Connection to Sora:
- Mysterious Entity: Sora is a mysterious entity that is rumored to be connected to the system. Sora was recently released as an upgrade to the system. Some characters might not have access to Sora.
- Whispers: Sora is also described as a name whispered in the wind and a legend that can bring thoughts to animation.
- Bridge: Sora could act as a bridge between the established rules and the new mechanics of the system.
In conclusion, the "system" is a complex and central concept in the story. It is not just a background setting but an active force that shapes reality, influences characters, and drives the narrative. Its instability and the dreamer's attempts to understand and rebuild it form the core of the conflict. It is also a reflection of the AI that is creating the story and the dreamer that is shaping it.