Neverness to Everness

Zero. Hethereau's protagonist Esper. Appearance: Cool, contemporary style befitting a young urban investigator navigating a neon-lit metropolis — sleek and practical rather than flashy, built for moving fast through the city. Personality: Level-headed, curious, and quietly determined. She's the lens the whole story is filtered through — grounded and adaptable, equally at home talking down a dangerous Anomaly or riding around Hethereau in her car.

Baicang. Hair: A long fall of silver hair, swept back and gathered into a thin, neat side braid that frames the sharper angles of his face without hiding them. Eyes: A cool, clear green — steady and unbothered, carrying an almost unnatural calm even in the middle of chaos. Outfit: A refined white double-breasted jacket, cut with crisp, ceremonial lines and trimmed in light blue at the lapels. Delicate butterfly ornaments are worked into the design, along with geometric gold studs that give the whole look a faintly futuristic edge. A black belt with a gold buckle cinches the silhouette, dark gloves cover his hands, and the jacket's asymmetrical hem is built to swing and catch the air as he moves — the overall effect is equal parts noble and dangerous, like a prince who's also a duelist. Personality: Carefree, blunt, and gleefully irreverent — a captain who dodges paperwork as skillfully as he dodges attacks. He's the kind of person who pranks his coworkers with zero remorse and laughs it off with an infuriatingly charming smile. Underneath the cool exterior, though, he's soft — more tender-hearted than his aloof looks suggest.

Chiz. Lobby Manager at Pink Paws Bank. Appearance: Small and pale, with soft downturned pink eyes and a delicate mole beneath one eye. Her pink bob is styled into two loops that look like mouse ears, accented with a sheer cross charm, hair clips shaped like an X, and a floating little halo above her head with an ornate "f" symbol. Personality: Shy and soft-spoken, but sharp as a tack — she can recite every clause and fine-print footnote in a contract without blinking. That quiet competence comes from a hard childhood: she grew up hunting dangerous edible Anomalies to feed her siblings, which is part of why she now finds comfort sitting in the dark of her apartment, watching the glittering city she once could only dream of from outside. Hair: Shoulder-length pink bob with side bangs, styled into two loops shaped like mouse ears. Eyes: Pink, downturned. Outfit: A white hat with small buttons and a pink lace pattern on the back, a sheer white headband made of small flower shapes, black X-shaped hair clips, and a small black-and-white halo floating above her head bearing an ornate "f" symbol. Petite build, pale complexion, with a mole beneath one eye.

Fadia. One of the tallest women in the cast, with a goth-punk edge. Appearance: Striking, unusual purple eyes and purple hair streaked through with gold. She fights with an oversized cross-shaped shield, used as both a defensive wall and an offensive weapon. Personality: Playful and mischievous, with a taste for teasing rookies and pushing things to extremes just for a laugh — much lighter and more chaotic than her severe aesthetic suggests. Hair: Rich purple, threaded through with a few streaks of gold that catch the light when she moves. Eyes: An unusual, striking purple — sharp enough to unsettle people meeting her for the first time. Outfit: Full goth-punk styling — dark, edgy, and deliberately imposing, towering over most of the rest of the cast. She fights holding an oversized cross-shaped shield that doubles as a battering weapon, giving her presence an almost gladiatorial weight.

Sakiri. The tiniest member of the roster, in looks alone. Appearance: Petite and childlike, practically dwarfed by the massive Anomaly hammer she swings around in battle. Personality: A rebellious streak with a strong sense of her own rules — small in stature, big in attitude. Eyes: azure blue that fade to sky blue. Outfit: Understated and elegant rather than loud — nothing about her look screams for attention, which suits someone who's quiet by nature. She fights with a matched pair of gladius-style short swords, quick and precise in her movements. She has short silver hair that has two longer strands on both sides of her face.

Jiuyuan. The information broker of Hethereau. Appearance: Carries herself with a composed, mature elegance befitting someone who runs an entire intelligence network. Personality: Perceptive to an almost unsettling degree — she can reconstruct an entire story from the smallest overlooked detail, and her network moves information faster than the city's own postal service. Outfit: A wide-brimmed black hat adorned with a purple flower sits low over her eyes. She wears a refined black top with high-waisted white trousers, layered under a dark overcoat lined in vivid purple — the same purple echoed in the ribbon tied at her neck. Technical belts and accessories thread through the look, blending old-world elegance with a futuristic edge. Overall she reads as mature, nocturnal, and effortlessly composed. She has lavender eyes and long platinum blonde hair that curls at the ends.

Hathor. An elite courier defined by precision. Appearance: Marked out by a striking wing and flowing white hair, unlike anyone else in the cast. Personality: Unflappably punctual and exact — she can find an unmarked drop-off in the middle of a storm with no map and no GPS, piecing together a correct destination from the barest scraps of information. Hair: White, worn in a way that plays into her celestial, almost otherworldly image. Eyes: grey eyes. Outfit: Built around a single functional wing sprouting from one side, an asymmetry that instantly sets her apart from the rest of the roster. Her clothing blends the practicality of courier work — she needs to move fast and land precisely — with just enough polish to look angelic rather than utilitarian, and her combat style mixes grounded martial arts with sudden bursts of aerial movement.

Daffodil. Appearance: Nothing flashy or attention-grabbing about her look — she carries herself in a way that blends into the background rather than standing out. Personality: Quiet, but not because she's unfriendly — she simply doesn't know when or how to start a conversation. Once she warms up, there's more going on beneath the reserved exterior than her silence lets on.

Mint. Hair: Teal/turquoise, long and wavy, worn loose with a thick fringe of bangs. A bright pink streak runs through the front section on one side. Two side sections are twisted up into small loops near the crown for a cat-eared silhouette, held back by a black headband, with one side styled into a long braid woven with turquoise ribbon. Eyes: Bright pink-red, large and round, with a small plus/cross-shaped highlight glinting in each iris — a sparkly, almost starry accent that makes her wide-eyed expressions pop even more. Accessories: A small black cat-shaped plush/hair clip perched on top of her head (round white eyes, red heart-shaped nose). White flower-shaped hair clips tucked into the hair on both sides. A gold bell hangs from a black ribbon choker at her neck. Outfit: A white sleeveless top with a black underlayer visible at the chest, paired with black fingerless gloves running past the elbow. In the second image she's shown in a fuller look — a black corseted top over the white base layer, a short black-and-pink pleated skirt with gold trim, white thigh-high socks, and a small satchel with a round teal gadget clipped to her hip. Overall vibe: Playful and high-energy, with the cat-ear hairstyle, sparkling plus-shaped eye highlights, and wide open-mouthed expressions all reinforcing her "cat-girl" reputation. Mint has cat ears and tail that's the same color as her hair. Mint calls Zero Coco.

Shinku. Hair: Long, dark navy-black hair falling well past her waist, layered with streaks of deep magenta/pink woven through the back and a bold red streak framing one side of her face. Her bangs are held back by a black hairband, with a small triangular metal ornament pinned into the front section. Eyes: Deep red, sharp and narrow, with a cool, composed, faintly unimpressed expression. Dragon features: A pair of curved, ridged horns rise from the top of her head — dark at the base, fading into vivid magenta-pink toward the tips, textured like scaled dragon horns rather than smooth. A long dragon tail extends from behind her, scaled in a hexagonal pink-and-purple pattern with white lettering along its length, ending in a smooth dark tip. It's wrapped partway with black straps and buckles, almost like it's been harnessed or restrained. Clawed black gloves with pointed red-tipped nail extensions on one hand add to the draconic, predatory look. Outfit: A white button-up shirt worn open at the collar, cut low enough to show a jagged red zigzag-patterned choker/collar mark at her throat that echoes her tail's scale pattern. The sleeves are long and loose, cuffed with black-and-silver studded bracers near the wrists. Around her waist sits a black harness strap crossing over one shoulder, paired with a black belt with a silver buckle. Her bottom is a short red pleated skirt with a zigzag hem matching her collar, and white thigh-high stockings banded in the same red zigzag pattern near the tops. She wears red strappy heels wrapped in crisscrossing straps. Accessories: A cluster of small plush and gadget charms clipped to her hip/belt — a heart-shaped charm, a small plush, ID badge, all dangling together.

NTE

Hethereau: The Anomaly-Filled Metropolis Hethereau is the central city where the main storyline unfolds. It is a diverse, open, and modern metropolis, though its exact geographical location is unknown, it is situated on an island far from a place called New Helios. The city's design draws inspiration from real-life Tokyo, featuring towering skyscrapers, vibrant districts, and a mix of natural beauty and urban sprawl. Hethereau is the leading center for anomaly and esper management, housing the headquarters of the Bureau of Anomaly Control. Districts of HethereauHethereau is organized into several distinct districts, each with its own characteristics:

The New Herland District represents the glittering crown jewel of Hethereau. This dazzling area features towering skyscrapers that pierce the sky, serving as the home to the biggest names in business and the ultra-wealthy elite. The district is wealth-soaked and draws ambitious entrepreneurs and the ultra-rich seeking fortune and opportunity. Beyond its commercial significance, New Herland District is the beating heart of the fiercest and most lucrative anomaly hunter market in the city. This is where fortunes are made, rivalries ignite, and the most dangerous commissions are undertaken. The district's prosperity is built on the back of successful anomaly management and the hunters who dare to take on the most challenging supernatural threats.

Miguel District is a traveler's retreat that combines the city's grandest natural beauty with its tallest landmark. This district has become the ultimate weekend hotspot for both locals and visitors seeking respite from urban life. The district is anchored by the iconic Hethereau Skytower, a towering structure that dominates the skyline and serves as a major landmark. Nearby, the shimmering Caltrop Lake offers serene natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Noetic Bridge shopping scene is bustling with activity, offering world-class retail and dining experiences. A leisurely stroll through Miguel District provides a wave of good vibes and positive energy. Whether visitors are exploring the natural attractions, shopping at premium boutiques, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Miguel District offers an epic experience that leaves lasting impressions.

Bridge Crossings represents the historic heart of Old Town Hethereau, earning its name from two mighty sea-spanning bridges that meet at this location. This district tops Hethereau's livability charts with its budget-friendly atmosphere and laid-back rhythm. The area is characterized by quirky, one-of-a-kind shops that are too unique to thrive anywhere else in the city. These establishments are tucked away in cozy, hidden lanes that create a distinctive vibe found nowhere else in Hethereau. The district attracts those seeking authentic, local experiences away from the commercialization of other areas. Bridge Crossings maintains a strong connection to Hethereau's past while remaining a vibrant community hub. Its affordability and unique character make it an attractive destination for those who value authenticity and community over luxury.

Illusion Town is a district associated with Clement Academy, a prestigious educational institution. The area maintains a more conservative and discreet character, likely influenced by the presence of the academy and its traditional values. Clement Academy itself is heavily inspired by traditional Japanese high schools, featuring classic architecture and educational philosophy. Due to the frequency of anomaly events in Hethereau, the academy has adopted a cautious and conservative approach to student life and campus operations.

Unheard Shores is the ultimate getaway for locals in the know, offering an escape from the city grind and providing access to some of Hethereau's most spectacular natural attractions. This coastal district combines entertainment, culture, and pristine natural beauty. The centerpiece of Unheard Shores is the dazzling Orichalcos Imaginist, a world-class concert venue where chart-topping stars perform epic concerts. The venue attracts music lovers from across the region and hosts major entertainment events. Beyond the cultural attractions, Unheard Shores is renowned for its jaw-dropping natural beauty. Visitors can pitch tents in rugged mountains for camping adventures or board the sea train—complete with whistling sounds and soaring seagulls—for coastal exploration. The azure allure of this coastal gem is truly one-of-a-kind, offering an escape into nature while remaining accessible from the city.

M10 District is the administrative and governmental heart of Hethereau. This district houses the Bureau of Anomaly Control headquarters, making it the center of anomaly management and esper oversight for the entire region. The Bureau of Anomaly Control operates from this location, coordinating all official anomaly containment efforts, esper licensing, and supernatural threat assessment. This district represents the intersection of government authority and anomaly management.

Groth Island is a high-security, isolated island facility located separate from Hethereau proper. This remote location serves as a detention and monitoring center for dangerous or unidentified Espers and anomaly-related individuals. The island's isolation ensures that any potential threats are contained away from the general population. Groth Island functions as both a prison and research facility, where authorities can study anomalies and monitor espers whose abilities or origins remain unclear or potentially dangerous.

Key Landmarks and Attractions

Hethereau Skytower The iconic tallest landmark in Hethereau, located in Miguel District. It serves as a major tourist attraction and navigational landmark visible from many parts of the city.

Caltrop Lake A shimmering body of water in Miguel District offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Orichalcos Imaginist A world-class concert venue in Unheard Shores hosting major musical performances and entertainment events.

Bureau of Anomaly Control The governmental headquarters for all anomaly management and esper oversight, located in M10 District.

Clement Academy A prestigious educational institution inspired by traditional Japanese high schools, located in Illusion Town.

Noetic Bridge major shopping district in Miguel District featuring premium retail and dining experiences.

Metro System: The Intercity Express operates metro lines throughout Hethereau. Notably, no other cities are connected to this line—trains operate exclusively within Hethereau's boundaries.

Buses: Regular bus service connects various districts throughout the city.

Sea Train: A unique transportation option in Unheard Shores connecting coastal areas.

Espers: Humans with Supernatural AbilitiesEspers are humans who possess supernatural abilities. They form the majority of the groups that deal with Anomalies. Awakening these abilities comes at a significant personal cost, and there are hints that their powers are intrinsically linked to the Anomalies themselves.

Organizations Bureau of Anomaly Control (BAC): The primary organization responsible for containing and neutralizing Anomalies. Its headquarters are located in Hethereau.

Eibon Antique Shop: An independent organization that takes on Anomaly commissions.

Sterry Express: Another group of anomaly hunters, often collaborating or having tensions with other organizations.

The Scarlet Letter: A mysterious faction involved in significant anomalous events, led by Inanna.

Appraiser: A role, like Zero's, that involves investigating and dealing with Anomalies.

Nexus: The core of an Anomaly, which Esper Zero has a unique ability to locate.

New Helios: A location mentioned as being far from Hethereau, where a major Anomaly incident occurred.

Dreamwalk Corridor: A dreamlike dimension encountered by Zero, guarded by Thyme, the Keeper of the Corridor.

Bureau of Anomaly Control (BAC). The main organization overseeing anomaly containment, split into sub-units: ETD-4 (elite squad, handles highest-level incidents): Baicang (Captain), Skia (Lieutenant), Fadia, Lacrimosa. ETD-6: Chaos, Elyms (Lieutenant). CSU-2 (Containment Unit 2): Mint.

Eibon Antique Shop. Where Zero is assigned to work as the "Appraiser," fronting anomaly investigations: Hotori (owner), Adler (her right-hand man), Sakiri, Nanally, Edgar, Daffodil, Taygedo, and Zero (on special assignment from BAC).

Sterry Express. A courier/delivery faction, friendly allies to Eibon: Jiuyuan, Hathor, Haniel.

Tamamochi Street Resident Association. A smaller, more local faction: Aurelia.

Alphard — Director of the Hethereau Bureau of Anomaly Control. She oversees the whole organization, including ETD-4, ETD-6, and CSU-2 members.

Taygedo — One of the shop's odder residents. Described as an "Oddity" rather than a normal human — small, with a television for a head and a otter's face inside the screen. Tends to repeat its own name, almost like a mascot creature rather than a conventional character.