V. Rationalism — Libby

In the painted room after wine and charged silence, Libby and Nico finally voice their feelings. Nico frames their bond across universes but refuses to be Libby’s “answer,” insisting love doesn’t solve her deeper need. When pressed, Libby blurts that she has killed and isn’t sorry. Nico affirms he still loves her but prioritizes choice over impulse, arguing their significance to each other doesn’t require a relationship now.

Libby recognizes that her failures and hunger for validation predate Nico; he was a catalyst, not a cause. Accepting that the romantic explanation is a distraction, she decides the real question is the experiment and commits to attempting it the next day. Nico agrees, promising a steadfast orbit regardless of labels.

That night, Libby dreams: a suburban scene bleeds into nightmare, bodies and blood, with Gideon present as a calm, haunting constant. She wakes in her old bedroom, where Tristan quietly comforts her and hopes the experiment might change whatever has been wrong.

In the morning, Nico fusses with plants while Tristan, Libby, and Gideon gather. Dalton arrives, more rumpled than usual, to coordinate the procedure from his dense notes. Gideon intends only to observe; Nico positions him as emotional support. Nico privately worries about new variables—working without Reina and with Dalton—but concedes they need Dalton’s research.

Libby rejects doubt, measuring herself against past guilt and loss, and reaffirms her agency. She instructs Nico to stretch: they will “make a new world” now, choosing action over hesitation despite the risks and interpersonal tensions in the room.