Trust as a Fundamental Value

Gurumin, the Shape of Empathy, had been entrusted with the extremely complex task of becoming the symbol of a peaceful society, regardless of the element.

Until now, the Espers of each element had seen others as potential threats. It therefore seemed obvious that a shift in paradigm regarding the trust placed in others was essential.

“Instead of fearing by default, why not trust by default?” she thought.

Trust is what allows sincere and lasting bonds to be created, regardless of the element.

But trust is also extremely fragile.

Just like Aether, the life source, which took millions of years to form, trust is built over years, or even generations.

But just as Aether is consumed extremely quickly through the use of magic, trust can be broken in an instant…

“That is where the StarDust present within every Esper becomes essential. By developing it, its light allows each person to see their own Shadow and to accept that others also carry that Shadow within themselves.”

Trust then becomes easier to give and preserve when each individual makes the necessary effort to develop their StarDust. A community of individuals who hold trust as a fundamental value can then be born.