Our Cruel Fate

by SentryForge223

Teyvat is in ruins, with the world in chaos and everyone Aether knew is dead, he found a chance to render those mistakes. For a second chance might amend the knots he had broken. But gods never abide by mortal standards. And Fate, cruel mistress she is, never made his life any easier since. Can he save his family amongst the Eternal Game of the Unknown God? (AU)

1. PROLOGUE

TRIGGER WARNINGS: Blood, violence, hope, and sorta-character deaths.

OUR CRUEL FATE

Written by SentryForge223

PROLOGUE - Beginning of the End

---

"Power is not what rules the land, it's wit and subterfuge. You may struggle to triumph in battle, but as long as the war is not won, individual victories will become meaningless. Revel in your success, wallow in your misbegotten sense of security, for in the end, only bitterness will await you.

Guileless child, drown in your despair and rue the world for its machinations. For it would not be so merciful.

Your naive rule has and always will be destined for ruin. Rejoice! For I shall show your precious subjects the true meaning of ABSOLUTE Rule.

A 'Noble' Death is meaningless, without someone to remember your deeds and name. It's all a matter of perspective, of course."

---

Aether and his beloved sister never believed in destiny. As powerful inter-dimensional beings, both siblings were spared the fate of many unfortunate souls. They have a home to return to, a loving family, and between the siblings themselves, each other is enough. But their beliefs were shaken on that fateful day, where a goddess deemed them a threat and dismissed their existence.

All for the sake of humanity's arrogance.

Both siblings were distraught, separated on their own, not even a farewell was exchanged. Just fear and sadness. Horror fills their faces when each other is lost. Aether remembered that face, her sweet sister's golden eyes begged for safety, for reassurance, and none he could give would ever make her smile again. Then, she was finally consumed. The goddess' face was of satisfaction and disgust. Contemplation. Brief as it was, Aether couldn't care less what the unknown god believes. All he saw was red.

That was the final straw.

Gathering the celestial energy around him, he dashes behind his foe and unleashes a torrent of heavenly power. Equal to a falling star, the skies of that place shook with supernatural strength and determination. A powerful force, enough to shatter a mountain whole. But all was for naught, as the goddess foresaw it.

Deprived of his strength, Aether could only watch in terror as his body and soul was captured at last. He desperately cried out the name he most cherished. But none answered. And the darkness felt cold, the sensations in his soul were severely unpleasant. Aether couldn't feel alive any longer, but not truly gone. A state of limbo. Throughout the countless years, he endured it.

Was it days? Weeks? Or was it centuries that passed?

His soul was being consumed, and the darkness whittled away his last remaining light. Until he was nothing but a shell of his former self. An empty husk, doomed to live in this desolate world without his loved one, and might suffer a terrible fate.

Only time could tell.

All throughout the grim process of undying and living death, his thoughts echoed endlessly. His voice is like a lost soul in an empty void. Just echoing. Only a single word- a name, that repeats itself.

Lumine.

---

He awoke with a jolt, and a piece of him was missing. Distraught and alone, he could only wander around his new home with sadness. A stark contrast to the times with his sister. For weeks, he wept and cried himself to sleep. The unfamiliar terrain and the alien sensation of his new 'home' did not help settle his emotions and thoughts. All incoherent and in complete shambles. Aether could not utter a word without stuttering himself into depression.

Foraging and fishing for food, the monotonous tasks he busied himself was the only thing holding him together. Not much he could do at the time. With his powers gone, the lack of flight, and the ability to properly defend himself, were just points to remind Aether of his goddamn failures. Life seems to move faster than he had expected. Days gone by without contacting the locals of this world.

Of course, he was afraid.

Aether was scared of what he might do if the wrong words were said. He never was much of a socialistic person, not unlike his sister. Who is a social butterfly that attracts others easily. Aether was only a prop in the background, ready to assist his sibling if needed. It had seemed that his final days might be spent doing nothing but wallow in his despair. The bleakness of the cliffside shore was not comforting at all. That is until fate tested him again.

For he had found hope. And a new companion! Granted, not the best, but not the worst either. They got along fine, and with Paimon's help, Aether will find the light again. Listening to her advice, Paimon wishes to see one of the Seven's statues here in Mondstadt. The Anemo Archon's to be precise, and with his new guide, his path was much clearer.

"And we're off to- the statue of the Seven!"

Her voice was more recognizable, even in a crowd. Paimon's endless smiles would see Aether through the day, and any other day after that. Such was the power of friendship, the bond between traveler and guide will be eternal.

In the end, Aether thought this was merely a nightmare, where he wakes up to find his sister safe, and the friends he made along the way were safe as well, content with the life he may have. He was right, though. Because one day, he will wake up to a horrible reality. One that will haunt him in his final days.

---

Aether wrestled to open his eyes, only dust and empty wind greeted him. The world was dark, and the Abyssal Moon seemed to be the only light source. The cold floor was smooth, clear textured, and stained with blood. His blood.

The Moon's rays pierced through the broken ceiling of the Fortress, as Aether tries to stand. Massive rubble came tumbling down to the floor where he barely stood. Despite the noise, no entity moved and no one called out to him. He was sure that his companions ventured ahead without him, his last moments before the darkness a blur.

The silence was dreadful.

Confusion threatens to grip his mind, but his will was much stronger than that. The Pyro Archon found that out the hard way.

Looking around the room, he only saw rubble and dust, and did his best trying to search for answers, but his battered body thought otherwise. His throat felt dry, threatening to choke him, and his body felt much heavier than before. The pounding on his head was bearable at best, but the thuds in his skull felt horrible. And distracting. Jean would always remind him that distractions were just another step into doom.

His trusted blade materialized into existence, a tool where he and his sister had shared near-identical designs, from the depths of his soul, and used the tip to balance himself. His legs threatened to buckle, but toppling him was not an easy task. The hundreds of foes that knocked him off his toes made sure of that.

His eyes, golden hue, scanned the scene around him once more. He was alone. Thoughts ran rampant, fears and hopes realized.

Was the struggle over? Did they win?

Is everyone safe?

If so, where were Amber's cheers? Hu Tao's bitter smiles? Chongyun's and Xinqiu's voices of victory?

The dreaded silence continued.

The blade he once held proudly became a glorified walking stick. His sister would've laughed at the sight. If only she were here. Regrets filled his aching heart as he recalled Lumine's final breaths. No, NO. Not now, especially in this predicament.

He will grieve later, for now, he must find a way out of the ruined floor.

Seeing a massive door towards a set of stairs, he slowly trudged forward. Each step brought an immense amount of pain. Reaching the massive door and forcing it open, his eyes caught a familiar shock of navy blue and gold.

"Xingqui!" he gasped in dismay, shock filled him as his voice seemed unfamiliar. For a moment, he couldn't recognize his voice. It was scratchy and broken.

Aether shook his head, pushing on when his friend didn't answer. But he wasn't alone, as a young man with white clothing shared the same spot as Xingqui. His heart stopped, as he witnessed his friend's normally pristine white clothes were stained blood red.

"Chongyun! Are you okay?"

As Aether staggered towards them, his own abhorrent breathing was the only sound he heard. Nearing them, the blade he wields clatter to the ground, the noise of his sword falling was deafening. Falling to his knees, he crawled forward.

The immeasurable pain in his body was ignored. And blood slowly bleeding out of his outfit stains the floor. Reaching out to them, Aether finally grabbed Xingqui's shoulder. He knew, even before he turned his friend over. Xingqui's body was cold, too cold.

Which was not right. The young man should have a Hydro Vision, not a Cryo one. Denial was on his mind, as he grasped the dreaded logic before him.

Those bright golden eyes, brimming with bravery and chivalry at first sight, now looked dull and empty. There was no light in them, no spark for adventure or justice. Blood stained his friend's mouth and chin smudged away and faded. There was a piece of metal lodged in his chest, between his own rib-cage. A blade of a Ruin Hunter.

"No… please not like this. Not like this!" Aether's eyes were bleary, but his sight was clear. He was already gone from this world, and freshly picked from the flowerbeds of the mortal plane.

Chivalry died at that moment. There was no true justice in this cruel world.

Aether's head honed towards Chongyun's form, seeing much the same. The young exorcist didn't move, didn't breathe, and despite the open eyes, he didn't perceive the world around him. The cold rush from his friend's corpse was much worse.

Tears filled his vision and he pressed his forehead against Xingqiu's. "No, no, no. Please. I beg of you! Don't leave me… Not like this."

Not again! But maybe… A pulse! There had to be a pulse.

He could lend some of Sucrose's latest concoctions, to mend the bones and heal the damage. He just needed them alive. To still breathe, before using them.

Aether's hands rushed towards his friend's throat, fingers prodding, and poking. When that failed he tore Xingqui's shirt open, ignored the blood, and pressed his ear against the young man's chest.

They had been through a lot, and when Aether's days seemed bleak Xingqui would always come to the rescue. Saving a lonely traveler from his own failures by watching his back and accompanying him through thick and thin. Like a hero.

But heroes never die. They shouldn't.

Anything, he begged. There has to be something I can do. Don't leave me, you two. I can't lose you like I lost Lumine.

There was nothing. He moved to Chongyun, desperate, issuing an apology as he heats up his hands with pyro to light up the guy's boundless positive energy. He would wake up to Aether doing so, he'd scream in horror, hit him, and they'd both laugh about it later…

Except that they wouldn't because there was no heartbeat, no heat, just the frigid form remained. The great exorcist would never wake up again.

A broken sob escaped him. Just another person he wasn't fast enough to save. I wasn't there for him. Aether thought he ran out of tears for his sister, it seemed it hadn't. More flowed and he wept over them, drawing both bodies against his.

Xingqui came to the rescue, like a knight in shining armor. Both facing their fate with an iron will. This… was this what they had fought and bled for? After doing long adventures together, training and fighting, growing stronger. How could it end like this?

The sound of breathing ahead broke him from his grief. It was hollow, and carried by a cold, dead wind.

It didn't come from Chongyun or Xingqui, but it was unmistakable - even it was weak. There was someone still alive. He picked up his blade once more and used it as a crotch, already feeling just a bit stronger.

"I'll come back for you two," he promised, looking one last time to both his comrades. "You'll get a proper burial. I promise. I promise..."

But for now, he had to see if someone else could be saved. He'd already lost too much and there couldn't be more. It just wouldn't be fair.

More bodies revealed themselves as Aether dragged himself floor-to-floor, through the ruins and wreckage. Some of them he realized as familiar faces, others he did not. The line of familiarity was blurred greatly, as most bodies were humanlike.

Some wore Fatui uniforms, although ragged and old, torn beyond repair and lacking the terrifying flair they once had. All throughout the mess they went to, the badges that swore loyalty to the Tsaritsa were still proudly etched. They were comrades to the end, and Aether did not know how he felt about that.

Others were the knights of Favonius and those that survived the disaster of Mondstadt. More were unknown to him, brave and loyal all and here at the edge of reality to try and kill their enemy once and for all. Those who robbed them of their homes, and family.

And worse, some he knew. Those who he cared for.

Razor stared at the ceiling blankly with his chest carved out, a familiar Great Sword shattered beside him like a horrific tombstone. Captain Huffman sat crumpled by a wall next to him, a line of dried blood seemed to drag towards his corpse. He'd likely given his best to try and buy them time. He did his best in the end.

Before them, with a myriad of weapons lodged in its form, was a mitachurl with a pair of blazing axes. They'd killed their foe, even if they succumbed soon after. There was nothing he could do for them.

"I'll bury you, too," he promised them. His voice choked at the last word. It felt hollow and empty.

There had to be someone he could save.

When the goddess appeared at Sneznhaya, stole all the Gnosis pieces from the Tsaritsa, and butchered half the Eleven Harbingers, a rally was made. What's left of the Eleven were captured and tortured, turned into slaves against their will. Weapons of destruction at the Unknown God's pleasure.

Varka had led an expedition with the entirety of the Knights of Favonius. Jean had not survived. She had been killed by Tartaglia, who was brainwashed and enslaved by the goddess. Diluc fought and died with her, bringing Childe down with them. At the end of that battle, the goddess lost a valuable piece but gained an army of defected and freshly enslaved Fatui soldiers.

Twisted by dark desires and programmed with a cruel nature in mind. Excellent puppets for her forces to ravage the land in wanton slaughter and assaults. So many lives ruined by their sadistic brands, a cruel gift from the goddess.

Only La Signora and a contingent of the Loyalists of the Tsaritsa remained, and later in the war joined the fight. She too died, freezing the army of the goddess during the siege of the Sumeru Academy, and there were vague reports of fire and ashes raining over the city. And now, during the assault, only the senior officers who never forsaken their badges of loyalty fought with them and died as well. They'd made their Archon proud.

Kaeya, stricken with grief, fought alongside the Tsaritsa of all people and brought down Celestia unto the depths of the ocean, and into the realm of the Dark Sea. With Kaeya's true power revealed, both the Cryo Archon and Kaeya use their strength and freeze the structure along with them. Greatly reducing the strengths of the Archons and gods, but the goddess was affected as well. It was an opportunity none of them could pass up.

And so, here they are now.

There were going to be so many graves. Was he going to have to dig them all? No. He could hear someone ahead. There was still someone with him. Yet, somehow that did not comfort him. Not one bit. Dread fell into his stomach of that small thought that appeared. What if She survived? There was NO WAY I would accept that, Aether growled in contempt.

Aether moved on, grasping the labored breaths he struggled to take, even as he stepped over Scaramouche's dead body and moved ever forward. Prick, he couldn't help but lament the tragedy that was the Sixth Harbinger.

He always gloated that he hated to be a puppet, and yet, he became the most useful one for the Unknown God's desires. But seeing the corpse of Eula beside him, it disheartened and cheered him on.

"Damn it," Aether cursed, but couldn't get rid of the bitter smile on his face. Eula since then gave up the "vengeance" thing after Jean died, but still kept her haughty and closed personality during their hard journey together. She died a meaningful death, and that was the only thing she had wanted.

Especially after Amber's sacrifice. Aether's heart tightened of the dark thoughts in his mind. Eula still had never forgiven him for making that decision, but within the cold demeanor lies a grieving soul, who yearns to join a dear friend one day.

Aether grieves, but moves on, promising to bury her too. Maybe even close to Amber's grave one day. That's all Eula would have asked of him.

Victory had never tasted so bitter. Is this what it feels like to lose?

He'd promised them a better world. A good ending. A grand finale.

What Aether had given was ashes and blood.

Maybe people in the future would reap the benefits of their actions and their sacrifices, but that was untold decades away, even centuries. The damage dealt could leave scars lasting a millennium. Maybe a few thousand years perhaps.

There was a good chance people would destroy one another before that, and maybe humanity would perish as a result. It was hard to say. It was even harder to imagine living alone.

Aether finally reached the top of the damned fortress, dragging his feet towards a large door. Signs of struggle and a battle took place here, and Aether took no other chance but readied himself. Physically and mentally.

What awaits him is nothing but dread continuing to pool in his stomach.

His feet carried him across the smooth floor, through a beam of moonlight, and towards a tiny figure crumpled at the steps leading up to a raised dais. The feathered outfit only used by the Investigator of the Adventurer's Guild seemed to melt into the blood that pooled around her, soaked and laying lank across her body.

Some would say it was a beautiful sight for art, Aether could only recoil in horror. There was no artistic value in loss. A torrent of swirling dread and horror pooled deeper within, as Aether recognized a dearly beloved figure unmoving on the cold floor.

"NO! Not you, too," Aether cried, dropping his sword and rushing forward. "Fischl, please! Anyone but you!"

She lay on her side, one arm beneath her and the other limp at her side. Her face was tilted to the side, her once beautiful emerald eyes were closed, but her lips formed into a tiny smile. To her, it wouldn't matter if she died so long as she was majestic whilst doing so.

Fischl was unique like that, or perhaps a bit selfish.

His hands flew over his lover, desperately searching the rise and fall of her chest or the rhythmic beat of the heart, no matter how weak. Aether's breath hitched. His mouth opened, but no words came out.

He tried to speak, and nothing came forth. Words were useless anyway. Fischl couldn't hear them. She was gone. His knees splashed into her pool of blood as he gripped his head between both arms. This wasn't possible, it just wasn't.

"My brave honorary knight, allow me to assist you. Do you wish to learn about my beautiful garden, Teyvat? Very well, for at the moon's peak, we shall ride upon the great Ozvaldo von Hrafnavines' sight. To please the Sovereign of the Immernachtreich, the stars shall beseech you to treat she-who-is-committed with a grand oyster of mortal consumption!"

"I believe what mein Fraulein means is that tonight would be a date and one that is to remember."

"Oz, no! Hold thy treacherous tongue!"

"Also, bring dinner."

"OZ!"

"Dammit, Fischl. You can't leave me like this," he begged, clutching her soft hands. Fischl's hands were soft, as Aether remembered that night. It was no night of passion, but simply regret and longing. He was a coward, too much of a coward to admit his stupid feelings. "Please wake up. Please. Someone... anyone..."

...

"Hrgh-..."

...

Golden eyes snapped open. "Fischl?"

...

"Hah... Hrk-"

It wasn't Fischl. She hadn't moved. Aether's eyes trailed up and over her, upon the dais itself and the seat that stood at the top. It was a throne, a symbol of power.

The crystal throne is infused with abyssal magic, a symbol of dominion of the Abyss, and once sat upon by his sister during her rule as a princess. There, slumped across the throne was the monster who caused all of this.

Her once-proud form now riddled with burn scars and blood. She was breathing rapidly, and it made his blood boil. It was her fault. He manifested his sword, but the Goddess made no effort to stop him. The arrows lodged in her stomach might have something to do with that.

Fischl was not merciful. Good, every arrow was well-deserved.

"Ugh... do not waste your efforts... she is gone," she glared at him as Aether made his way towards her, desperate to tear her apart, limb from limb.

It would be oh-so satisfying. But held himself, as the cloud of anger and hatred might impair his judgement. It wouldn't be fair to the ones lost and gone if he were to get rid of her so easily.

The woman, as if she was to be called like that, fixed her inhuman gaze on him. Her skin was once pale and smooth now dotted with blood and burns. The orange glow in her eyes seemed fainter and faded. Though her chest rose and fell, it was with a dry rattle and a bubble of crimson fluid that spilled out of the many arrows that were lodged between her breast and stomach.

Interesting, so gods can bleed after all.

"Heh, is this what you had wanted?" she whispered. Her voice was low, faltering, and she had to struggle not to pause between words. "This is... what you and your comrades were gifted in the end... How does it feel to be alone once... more...?"

"..." Aether continued to gaze heatedly. The world around him seemed to dull in color, and a force of untold emotions were ready to burst.

"Is this..." she coughed, blood spilling out of her lips. "Everything you thought... it would be?"

Aether, in the grip of an emotional outburst, turned his grief into rage. "No," he gritted his teeth together. "It isn't. It shouldn't be..."

"Hrk- such arrogance...! Human stupidity never ceases to amaze me," the monster laughed. Pouring the remaining vestiges of her power, and opened a massive rift above their heads.

Unnatural cubes slithered into the floor, beneath the raised dais, and formed a massive giant creature of otherworldly matter. Aether took only a few seconds to move out of the way and rearm himself. The pain was dulled, as adrenaline rushed through his veins.

"Victory... rarely is, boy. And this...!" she proclaimed, lifting her right arm towards the monstrosity. "This is the culmination of my eternal game. A long-winded tale of our destruction and defeat. Tell me, Outlander, how many times did we clash?"

Clash? The only times he knew where he battled the Goddess herself was when he and Lumine were trapped in this world and the brief conflict at Sneznhaya. Where they were supposed to meet the Cryo Archon, as Tartaglia promised so after the confrontation at Liyue Harbor. Aether remembered that day when his beloved companion turned into this monster and slaughtered the Harbingers. He couldn't believe it, Paimon was his friend. His guide, and the person who lifted him up from his depressive shell. The darkness that nearly consumed him. Not the one who took his sister away, killed countless people, and the reason why his friends perished.

"Heh, the same look as always..." she grunted, lifting her whole body up. "Why must you siblings be so annoying? All the times I had to reset..."

Aether had no clue what she was rambling about, but he didn't care. Adrenaline pumped his body as he once again, and probably for the final time, manifested his blade. He would die here, but what is it worth to live? His sister is gone, his friends dead, and the world in shambles. It had seemed Aether underestimated his desire to perish as well. No matter, his Prinzessin was waiting for him, and the rest of his family as well.

He just needed to deal with this bitch.

Drinking in every last bit of Sucrose's concoction, he immediately dashed forward, his foe awaiting Aether's demise.

Sprinting in like never before, Aether prepared to strike. The monster anticipated this as it swung towards him. The boy slides underneath its arm, barely missing that hit. As he composed his form once more, he summoned a gale of wind. The power of Anemo answered his plea as a ball of pure wind energy manifested in his left hand.

Learning this trick at Natlan, where the Pyro Archon challenged his right to an audience with her. Infusing his blade with pyro energy, and combining it with his anemo, Aether has now accessed an arsenal of death. The anemo energy unleashed a raging whirlwind of fire and destruction. He imagined Jean doing her move of thrusting her blade with anemo energy to launch her foes, now add that with pyro and multiply the power output by a thousand. The results were immediate, and highly effective. Hitting its unfortunate victim in a roaring strike. Flame and wind danced with grace. The Ultimate Tool of Destruction. Aether roared in defiance.

Human ingenuity and pure creativity were the main factors that gave birth to these unorthodox moves.

Such is the nature of war, twisting the core of a human being from who they are to what they need to be. Monsters are needed on the battlefield, and he will be the monster they need. He remembered how Barbara took the sword, as well as the spear, and took the place that her older sister should have. A leader that defends her soldiers with faith and martial skill. Jean should've been that, not Barbara. A cruel and twisted joke, indeed.

The monstrosity seemed to acknowledge it though, as the inhuman howl of rage filled the room. Now enraged and beyond composed, the creature charged towards him. It might've been a bit startling if Aether had not planned beforehand. But he did, and the initiation of the battle favors him. Now, to take advantage of such. Strike when the iron is still hot. Glaring at the abomination, Aether couldn't suppress the urge to blast its master to pieces. But held firm, the battle was in his favor. He would not risk losing from a temper tantrum. He should know better.

Emotion. The one true catalyst of the Electro element. Beidou had taught him how to summon his inner rage and hatred, and how to contain and nurture it. The amount depends on the situation at hand. And the situation is kinda fucked up right now. As Beidou would always say, "Any time is the right time to be pissed off, just knowing when to unleash it is key." Knowing Beidou, her skill of Absolute Retribution could tear monsters apart, and shatter buildings in one swing. The captain of the Crux is something else entirely, and Aether could never live up to that hype.

Good. Because now, he will make her proud. The scenes of his friends butchered and lay motionless on the cold ground of this damn abyss really pissed him off. Grief, sadness, and regret were at the forefront of his emotions. Now, beyond that, in the heat of battle amongst monsters, his rage flowed like the wind. A raging maelstrom of hatred. Towards a foe, he really wants to rip to shreds, rending their existence to nothing, and shattering them into dust.

Never underestimate an angry man like him, for he felt the surge of Electro flow in his battered form, and manifested into a form of a gauntlet. A spikey one at that, enough to shatter tall structures to rubble in a single swing. Thunder rumbled across the room, as the monster clashed with the Electro infused Traveller. His raging fist smashed the monster head-on, caving the stomach and splitting its massive form. Since the beast was still on fire, the Electro fused with the flames and exploded. Sending Aether flying back towards a wall. Damn, is this what Bennett feels every time? Not exactly envious.

Struggling to even stand, he forcibly pushed himself from the ground. Leaning against the wall, he observes the crumbling battlefield. The smoke was still there, and a visible crater decorated the room. Squinting his eyes, he noted that the Goddess disappeared. Grunting, he pushed himself away from the wall. Taking small steps towards the mess he made, Aether did not see the monster from above until it was too late.

A gasp only escaped him as what remains of the beast pinned him. Damn, the torso of the monstrous entity was still intact, and both of its arms held him to the ground. He could only watch the Goddess from above, descend towards him.

"Not bad," she commented. "A move I had never witnessed before, and even now you still managed to surprise me."

A soft chuckle escaped her vile lips and focused on an item she manifested out from one of her dimensional portals. A pocket watch. It was like any pocket watch that Aether has seen plenty of times, but when the Goddess opened it, the clock was merely a phantom on a sea of stars. As if alive, the motion of the device managed to cause him nausea.

It was gleaming silver, and glowed like the moon above.

"Hmph, it seems I can go for one more try," the Goddess scoffed as she fiddled with the clock. "Third time's the charm it would seem, and this time I did succeed."

Noticing his worried and confused expression, she gave Aether a disgustingly kind and ugly reassuring smile. "You would always wonder how I knew you and your sister's capabilities? Well, let me educate you on the wonders of time. It is never static, in fact, time always moves ever forward. And I, the Archon of Time and Space, studied and ruled it as my dominion. Until the Archon War that is, where my Authority over it was forcibly taken from me. The fools of Celestia thought they could trick me, and they did, but I rule over the Dominion of Time. And so, I played the loyal dog, and provoked the arrogant folks of Khaenri'ah, both sides bursting with fury with one another.

"It is hilarious how similar a god can be to a mortal, both ignorant and prideful, and both are willing to kill each other for greed and arrogance. In the end, it seems that Heaven won and losers were stripped of their little indignity. Reduced to nothing but wanton creatures of whim. How fitting.

Some of them even confronted me personally during the war. How foolish, as I repaid their arrogance with a sea of blood. It was amusing how they struggled."

The Goddess held his chin up, "The humans who thought they could fiddle with my creation think they would get away with it. I made sure they didn't. The war on the heavens did not only take what is mine but those I cherish as well. Because of human intervention, the war for Teyvat escalated to extreme levels. One I was doubting they would recover from."

"And yet, they thrive now," she scoffed. Gazing towards the empty abyssal world, and taking a glance at the moon. "Like pests, they could never be exterminated so easily. So, I devised a plan to descend Teyvat into chaos once more. Five hundred years ago, I rattled the forces between the mortal realm and Celestia, and damned the unfortunate human souls below. The only problem was that two Outlanders interfered with my plans and rallied against the foes of humanity."

Her gaze landed on him, as confused as he was, Aether noted a look of mere annoyance towards his existence. "What did you mean by two Outlanders?" he asked, now staring back at the Goddess. The look given back was more curious than anything, and the Goddess gave a pondering look. As if arguing with something.

"Would you believe me if the two Outlanders were you and your sister?"

What. How? He and Lumine never stayed behind to witness something like that. Unless...

"That's right, what if I never interfered with the both of you when leaving? At first, I never knew both of you even existed," she laughed as if recalling a memory a long time ago. "I was more curious as to why you would visit this world."

Wait. Before leaving this world, Lumine wanted to know if he was willing to settle down. To stop traveling, and live out their lives in this world. Of course, he was against it. Considering the general state of things before they decided to leave. But the doubtful look on Lumine's face said it all. It was then the Goddess interrupted them, and tore them apart. Could it be? If they had never left would they have helped the people below? It was a no-brainer for Lumine, she was kind and considerate like that. But then...

"...You turned back time, and tried to stop us, didn't you?"

The Goddess smirked, "Yes, I did. And I would have succeeded if not for your meddling sister. She had awoken much earlier than expected, whilst I was churning things at Celestia, and she managed to run off to Teyvat.

"It seemed that she managed to find a sort of kinship with the people of Khaenri'ah. Sadly, it was the same year I was ordered to drown the Freehold of Khaenri'ah with the wrath of the gods, or more specifically the current Archons. It was a surprise that some, if not most, were willing to stain their hands again with blood. Though, I had to- ah, remove their number quite a bit, and convinced them that it was the mortal nation that was responsible.

"Witnessing all that, and taking away her brother, she fought with a vengeance I had never seen before. In a blink of an eye, I was defeated and now reduced to a state of perpetual suffering. With you of all beings! The food I had to stomach! Augh..."

That disgusted look seemed familiar as if his old friend was back. "Then what did you mean by 'Third time's the charm it would seem'?"

"The second time was the time I decided to accompany you through your adventures around Teyvat. But in the end, you reunited with your sister and defeated me. So this time was the charm. I had anticipated your arrival at Sneznhaya and took the opportunity when your guard was low. And now, here we are."

With a flourish of both of her arms, the monster pinning him grew two more arms. This time, with both blades armed, and ready to skewer him when the time has come. Aether could only watch in grief as the Goddess prepared to give the word. He would not be afraid, death seemed like an old friend, and nothing can stop this monster now. His sister was probably waiting for him, a little impatient. Along with the friends he met on his journey, they were waiting for him. Maybe these years were all he had. And even with the brief respite reuniting with his sister were all precious to him. Maybe that was enough. Let him rest in peace.

He would have closed his eyes, but he wishes to gaze back at the Goddess in his final moments. For one final defiance against what she stood for. A final spit at her face, and maybe some final words...?

"Paimon? Are you there?"

The Goddess narrows her sight, and demands, "Who are you calling, Outlander? The entity that is Paimon is gone."

"Regardless, I just wish to say goodbye. The sole reason for my journey was never at your manipulations, they were under my control. And Paimon was never you, as she was the light that pulled me out of my own darkness. I will never forget that."

Was it just him, or did the Goddess' eyes look funny? Yes, those unnatural orange eyes became dull grey for a mere second. A blink is all that took to return to those baleful eyes, and yet those same eyes now felt doubt. She shook her head, feeling convicted now all of a sudden.

"Rejoice, Outlander, for your time of reckoning has finally arrived."

With a simple flick of her arm, the monster propped-up its new limbs and was ready to finish him off. Aether's eyes closed, waiting for that final blow... But it never came. Hearing pained grunts, he opened his eyes to witness something bizarre. Golden eyes met dull silver. Shocking him, as joy filled his aching soul to the brim. How could this be? Could it really...?

"...Emergency food?"

Huffing in annoyance, "For the last time, Traveler, Paimon's NOT EMERGENCY FOOD!"

Her voice seemed more mature, but the immaturity is still there. He couldn't believe his luck, his friend came back! Wait. Now he noticed Paimon, in the Goddess' form, was holding both her hands in the air, like she was halting something. Not feeling dead, he looked up to find the monster struggling to pierce him. Her grunts increased as the beast slowly lifted both arms pinning him. Now freed, he concentrated his Electro and Anemo energies into one swift move, he casted Wind Blade. The bastard never stood a chance, as a million particles blasted off of him.

Standing up once more, he could see Paimon from the other side. He quickly made his way towards her, now worried for her state. "How did you do that? I thought you were gone, I thought I had lost you too." Aether couldn't contain his joy, but a small part of him was scared. Was he going to lose her again?

Coughing from the blast, she replies, "Nevermind that, the Requiem must be taken away!"

Requiem? Ah, the stopwatch. Looking back down at the bottom of the dais, he can see the device laying there. Paimon must've dropped it when he engaged the beast one last time. He picked it up, and found it surprisingly light. A pained gasp tore his attention away, as he saw Paimon struggling from something. It must be the Goddess! Damn her.

"Paimon! Are you okay?" he asked, noting that the Goddess' body was still injured from the fight with Fischl. "Does it hurt?"

"No. Paimon is... fine," she seems to struggle at her words. "But you must use it! The device could only be used one last time. It would be the last, and Paimon must not fail...!"

Words escaped him. Why would she do this? "Please let me help you-"

"NO! You must do it, I can't hold her for long. She would- yOu WilL NevEr StOP mE! DamN YoU maScOT!"

Shockwaves filled the room as tremors shook around her. Aether can barely stand his ground, but he must not give up on Paimon! Damn this, he could not bear to lose another.

"Aether, PLEASE," Paimon begged, her eyes burned with orange light. Instead of pure malice it was steadfast determination. "Let those mistakes be fixed! Save your sister. Save EVERYONE!"

Quickly gazing back to the device, he willed it to turn back time, to the past where he could render his mistakes into virtually nothing. The device seems to hum as the hands of the clock stopped moving, and suddenly the hands rapidly turn counter-clockwise.

"yoUR PoweRs ShalL bE TaKen aNd yoUr bIRthRigHt wILl NevER Be YOurS AgAIn!"

He ignored her, more focused on the endless turning of time. "Paimon, will you be alright?"

"Hehe, just save a meal for me won't you...?"

White filled his vision as the world flashed in his eyes. And he knew no more.

---

Aether woke to familiar surroundings.

Nostalgia hits him much harder than he would have expected. The smell of the salty waters, the splashing of the blue coast reflected by the bright moon above. It was night time. Aether withheld a shudder, remembering those moments awhile ago. Those dead and soulless eyes of his friends. The death of his lover. And the final confrontation between him and the goddess. Paimon's final request. And time-travel. Shaking his head, Aether pushed himself from the ground, now with renewed vigor.

The familiar silhouettes of the cliff-side spark the dying embers for adventure. When was the last time he set out for a simple journey with friends? The stories shared between comrades in front of a campfire was an experience he would cherish forever. The sensation of fear threatens to grab hold of him, just thinking of failing again.

Calling towards his blade, his unresponsive weapon was now gone, traces of its existence were forever dead. Not much of a shocker really, as for you to count one thing on the goddess, it was her word and promise. Along with his powers, he could never fly again. But that is a price he was willing to pay. If his angelic persona and the only thing which connects him with his sister are gone, for the chance to let those close to him live again, it was a no-brainer for Aether.

Once again depressed, and alone. He wandered off into the distance, where the Teleport Point patiently settled as if waiting for his arrival. Walking up to it, he can hear the gentle twinkle it emits. Calmly touching the object, it unleashes a flash of light. Now, at a more leveled position, Aether can feel the thrums of power course through him once more.

The goddess may have taken his powers again, but that doesn't mean she can take his most valued piece, his soul. Which is fundamentally different from those who live in this world.

Satisfied, he walked forward. Whatever lies in his path, he will not waver. For this time, for sure, he will make things right. He could only hope Paimon would forgive his tardiness. Knowing she won't show up for a month or two. Being soul bonded, he can feel her presence anytime and anywhere. He pleads to himself not to let Paimon drown.

He has a feeling she won't forgive him if he does.

If so, he'll treat her to dinner, all you can eat. Aether hopes that would be enough.

---

The silent wind is telling.

Such are signs of things to come. Plenty of people in Mondstadt are very superstitious, even if half the population does not believe in their Archon anymore. But living with dangerous monsters that prowl freely in the wild, witnessing powerful spirits roam the lands untamed by man, and the mere existence of elemental powers across the seven nations of the world can really give a good perspective on what goes on daily in the lives of the common folk. Varka only wishes the world to be a simpler place.

He was not a complex person, if you want to challenge him, then do so. If there is a person that disagrees with you, fight back. Given enough reasoning to be labeled as "decent" is enough for him.

Varka likes it quick and simple. Do not mistake his simpleness to be easy pickings. There is a reason as to why he is the current Cavalry Captain to the Ordo Favonius. His skill in leadership is valuable, and his fighting prowess? Unquestionable.

Give him a Hilichurl tribe to wipe out by himself? Easy pickings, indeed. Heck, he'd be done with it and eat breakfast after. Though, eating is a first. You can't conquer a nation on an empty stomach. He did try once, and it was a novel experience. The Fatui weren't exactly amused, and especially the current Grandmaster of the order. Well, fuck him. If he really wishes to bend over to foreigners who are obviously trying to subtly take over then do so. Just make sure to stay the fuck away from me.

"Damn, now I really want a drink." Varka groans as he continues his patrols across the streets of the city. Taking extra care to check the back alleys, the really shady ones. Most of the amateurish knights would not even bother, sticking close to the crowds. Not that he blamed them, sticky honey roast sounds very appealing right now. But having your eyes and ears to the most secluded spot tends to give results. Ha, suck on those treasure hoarders.

"I wonder if Angel's Share is still open?" his thoughts now wandered over his old friend, Crepus Ragnvindr. A shame, he is a good man at heart, but the standards for recruitment were high. And later in his age, Crepus already married the woman of his life and now focuses on the Dawn Winery business. Not that Varka blames him, a simple life like that can be fulfilling. But he thinks Crepus still wanted to be a knight. Ah, whatever, not really one to weep over spilled milk, Varka accepted his friend's choice.

Now having a son, Crepus should now focus on raising his only child. And the adopted one. What was his name again? Alebert- something. Or was it Kaeya? Weird name. But good eyes. Or eye, considering the medical bandage over one of the brat's eyes. The kid's demeanor can tell so much. Especially, of how he suffers. Those shouldn't be in a child's eyes. What kind of a fucked up place did he come from? Varka really wants to know, so he would trash the bastards who did that!

Varka is a betting man, he bets the Ragnvindr family will be safe. Considering their child is a damn prodigy with a blade. To think one day, young Diluc would surpass Varka. He'll be waiting on that. Though, concerning the recent health of Lady Ragnvindr had him worried. Nah, they would be fine. This is Crepus we're talking about here.

The dependable bastard, he was one of the few Varka trusts to watch his back. Not like a certain rigid ice queen of a woman named Lilia Gunnhildr. Such a bitch, he knew the moment he met her things were not going his way. Fate was truly cruel.

At the very least Frederica's eldest daughter was polite and more than happy to hear his tales and achievements. Though, he bet little Jean only wished to pick out his bladework from the stories Varka would tell. A smart girl that one, and Varka knew talent when he saw one. That and a slap to her mother's metaphorical face was worth the effort of his stories.

Jean truly does her best, making sure to lessen the collateral damage when both titans would clash. Barbatos bless the lass.

As a knight, he must do his duty to the people first and foremost, the safety of Mondstadt comes next. He will make his home proud. If he had a little fun first, those hilichurls won't wait till the next week. And the mitachurls were callin' for a bashin'. And Varka never fails to deliver.

"Great, now I must convince the old bastard to change my duty from patrols to cleansing operations. You damn cunts better be worth it."

---

Aether opened his eyes, and for the first time in a while, he was greeted by sunlight. The piercing rays gave powerful sensations to his body, albeit still weak from his injuries. Speaking of injuries, it seems someone bandaged him whilst he was asleep. Usually, his paranoid senses would kick in, but his form was relaxed, and he felt much better. Aether's instincts told him he was safe. For now.

He must find and thank his savior, and be on his way. Time is at its peak, and Stormterror won't settle down until he is purified. Or else, Mondstadt will never feel safe. And he must deal with the Abyssal Order, and find his sister as he knows she was here during the confrontation at Stormterror's lair. With her help, Aether might have a chance to harass La Signora's forces at Mondstadt to prevent Venti's Gnosis from being stolen. He must locate Varka as well as the veterans of the Ordo Favonius are strong and reliable, as they might prove a chance against any threat that the Goddess would dish out. And somehow he must convince Fatui diplomats as well. That might take some time, but the aid of the Tsaritsa might prove invaluable.

Grunts escaped him as he tried to pry himself from the comfy bed. The room was simple in design and had little to no decor. Probably a guest room, or a spare. Mondstadt's commodity is actually homey, and the people make sure travelers or foreigners are given proper hospitality. Even from those of Fatui origins.

Admittedly, his legs feel much better, and he can run at a normal pace now. Though, he wouldn't like to find out if he can sprint. Situations like those were never worth it.

Walking towards the door, he can smell a sweet aroma of a veggie dish and soup. As he approaches the kitchen where he originated the smell from, he can hear a melody of humming. A sweet voice greeted, if not a bit startled. "Oh! Young man, you are finally awake, for a moment there you worried me."

A brown-haired woman ushered him towards the table of the kitchen, unable to protest much, and felt obligated to at the very least humor her, Aether followed her lead. Feeling pampered, he protested when he was offered some soup.

"Nonsense, you should be grateful to Barbatos that you still live and breathe. You were lucky to survive from such an injury!"

Aether does not know why he should thank the useless bard, but replies, "Well, I appreciate the meal. And the hospitality." His voice seems much better now. Untowardly, he noticed his voice felt much deeper as well. Probably from a growth spurt.

"Of course, my brother was worried sick when he saw you leaning against a tree, limp and unconscious," the young woman fretted, and he now noticed a pair of ears from her. Huh, was it truly common around Mondstadt?

"Heh, yeah. Not my brightest moment, I assure you," said Aether, a bit embarrassed just thinking at the sight. He was the Hero of Mondstadt, dammit!

The Honorary Knight shouldn't be seen limping like that, Jean would have been embarrassed if not amused, and Kaeya would've laughed at that. Lisa wouldn't have minded, but he had the feeling she would just call it cute. Amber would just berate him, hug him, and tell him it's okay. All would share a laugh, and Aether would laugh with them. Where his absent sister was, the Knights were his family. And now they are dead.

Seeing the look on Aether's face, the woman spared him a kind smile, "A handsome man like you shouldn't have a look like that. I bet your lover would feel bad for herself."

Handsome? Nevermind. She was right, though. Fischl would feel disappointed in herself if she saw him like this. He bet, to make him feel better, she would say, "Fear not, my beloved prince. For I, Fischl the Prinzessin der Vertuilung shall commence the ritual of emotional bonding and the stars shall sing you a song to soothe your aching soul." Of course, with Oz around, "What she meant is that she is willing to cuddle with you."

Giving a bitter smile, he said, "Don't worry much, I understand your worries. But you are right, I shouldn't have to feel bad for myself." I will fix this for Mondstadt. And for her.

Now, with the emotional baggage set aside, he wishes to address something. "Apologies, ma'am, I did not get to know your name. It must have slipped my mind."

She gave a hearty laugh, "Ah, it's no bother. The name's Madeline by the way. A pleasure to meet you, good sir."

"My name's Aether and the pleasure is mine to have."

A comfortable silence followed as Aether finished his meal, and Madelinde cleaned the kitchen. When was the last time he settled for a simple home-cooked meal? Probably in ages since. The texture was nice and simple, but the flavor it brings to the tongue was astonishingly done well. As a cook himself, Aether prided his skills with finesse and technique. But also filled it with love, as most of the meals he would make would go to his friends. It was made with passion, and none of his comrades would deny it.

"Thank you for the meal, Adelinde," he said, "But I must leave immediately."

She looked startled but calmed down when Aether approached her and offered a handshake. With a gracious smile, Madeline took his hands and firmly shook. Her calloused hands surprised him, but the skin was soft to the touch. A kind of personality like that could go a long way. Maybe he should visit sometimes.

"I might return to thank your brother, as he saved my life as well."

"Oh, he wouldn't return for a moon cycle I'm afraid," she lamented. "As it was only last night where they had started the hunt, they found you unconscious outside the village."

A hunt? Aether might return in a month or two when he finally settled himself in Mondstadt. It's good to have connections when it is coincidental, and none better to have a hunter in Springvale when the time comes.

"Would you be alright? What had happened to hurt you like that?" Madeline couldn't keep the worry off her voice, but curiosity was there. Was it alright to lie? Well, it might not be a lie, but…

"I was traveling from Liyue as an Adventurer," he replied, a small embarrassed smile twitched at his lips. "My lover worked here as well, and I wished to work at the Mondstadt branch for a while. Unfortunately, I encountered a group of treasure hoarders."

Seeing the shocked look on her face, Aether quickly assured her, "Ah, there was a clash between a tribe of hilichurls nearby, and managed to turn the situation into a weird one. But I managed to escape on my own, I was just exhausted when I arrived."

Well, apart from the world-ending catastrophe, the rampaging Abyssal Order, and the untold clash to liberate a world from a tyrant, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. And Aether wishes to keep the details to himself, unless someone he doesn't want to know might change and alter his plan. It would undoubtedly sabotage this precious chance to save his friends and sister.

"I see, and it seems you can handle yourself. It was merely bad luck on your part that you got hurt."

Yes, bad luck...

"I wish not to bother you any longer, Madeline," he said. "When I return, I will pay both of you the same kindness that you had shown me."

Madeline shook her head, "It was the right thing to do, and I did not regret it." She gave him a sly wink, though. "Not one bit."

Startled and embarrassed, Aether never thought he could rush through a door with such haste before. What was that? Wait, the bandage beneath his clothes was subtle, but they were there. Was Madeline the one to do it? Oh, and now he must make sure word wouldn't reach Fischl of this. He would not hear the end of it. The long-winded lectures... Even Oz would never survive such an encounter.

"Please, say hello to your lover. She is very lucky, you know!"

Aether wished those words carried by the wind never reached him. Damn that bard!

---

Lisa was a proud girl.

She was smarter than most children of her age, adults treat her as an equal, and she gets to have access to the famed archives of the Knights. Lisa wasn't interested in knighthood, though, as she has bigger aspirations than that. While most kids dreamed of gleaming armor and living in true chivalry, Lisa yearned for knowledge.

It was the hunger within, the craving of words and information that truly caught her interests. She was only five summers into her life when Lisa started to learn, and it did not take her long to enjoy reading to her utmost pleasure. The curiosity was there, and it only needed a spark to ignite.

Lisa was a girl with little social matters, but she does have friends of course, and it only serves to boost her ego. She was very arrogant, lording her knowledge to other children and treating them like lambs. Her parents were not amused at all, and they were in fact worried.

Fortunately, her father was a scribe for the knights, and was good friends with the matriarch of the Gunnhildr Clan. It only took a single shrewd look to quickly ascertain her worth as a good friend for her eldest daughter. Lisa's best friend Jean of course was naturally mad at her mother for choosing her friends rather than her own decision.

Jean did not regret it, though.

Both girls were immediately taken to each other. Lisa had found the Gunnhildr heir to be very intelligent, or at least compared to kids their age.

Jean was guarded at first, but Lisa's sarcastic remarks and witty jokes managed to warm her heart.

Both were sure that their friendship was secured. Of course, in recent years, Jean found kindred spirits with a pair of boys that Lisa had yet to meet. Lisa tried not to roll her eyes at Jean's excitement of finding a pair of kids sharing her interest in being a knight. Or at least in her mother's interests.

Lisa was greatly worried when she always met the matriarch of the clan. There was no denying the woman's love for her daughters, but there were times Lisa tried to question the woman's desires for the freedom of love or the chains of duty that seemed to enslave the noble family.

For Mondstadt, as always.

Lisa on occasions had to restrain herself from shuddering on hearing those accursed words. Sadly, her friend Jean followed the rest, as the mantra had stated, that she would give her soul, life, and body to the city of Mondstadt. The poor girl unknowingly sold her freedom, no matter if that came from a prominent family like the Gunnhildrs.

She wasn't stupid, of course, letting her thoughts be known.

Jean was her best friend, but there were times that Lisa felt alone. Jean was dutiful, strict on herself, and was very critical of her own flaws. Of course Jean had flaws, she was human after all! But her friend did not seem to comprehend anything less than perfection.

Lisa was nearing her thirteenth summer when she realized how alone she was.

It was only last year when the Gunnhildr family took her friend away to their manor in the city, and Lisa seldom ever interacted with her since then.

And so, Lisa had retreated back into her old self, covered in tomes and books rather than the usual company of others. That, and her preparation of the Initiation for the Annual Festival of Wisdom on Sumeru, a clear opportunity for looking for a master or educator to take her in as an apprentice, the few ways of getting into academia.

Lisa spent a month scouring for any books pertaining to getting an education worthy of a Sumeru scholar.

Whilst the normal entry was to pay for the privilege, Lisa's parents were not as rich as most nobles in the city. Considering the price of entry, Lisa doubts that even Jean's parents wouldn't balk at the thought. There was of course, the common option; proving your knowledge and education prowess with an invention or research. But they were reserved for adults with their own funding, and Lisa was barely a teen being considered to even leave the city without her parents.

It was the apprenticeships that were her only chance to get a head-start for a proper education. Lisa loves her home, but the only education you get was pathetic. There was not a single school for any normal courses, lest for combat and knighthood within the knights. Unless she wants to be a fisherwoman or a huntress, Lisa would rather look elsewhere. Or the best there is.

Sumeru Academy was a dream.

And the best part of it all, it was the center of magical studies and knowledge. Lisa was a child back then, dreaming of magic and power in her fingertips. But nothing came out of it, and Lisa was not confident if she wanted a Vision. According to some sources, she needed to have a Grand Ambition that eclipses others. Lisa later gave up when she found her ambition to be common, but she promised to find out more when she gets a proper apprenticeship.

Before that, she needed to travel there, and she managed to convince her father. The earliest start on the festival would be in the Fall of the year, in two months.

"Are you sure that you want an apprenticeship? The knights could use more help..."

Lisa did not even try at suppressing a roll of her eyes at her friend's barely subtle offer. "Please Jean, you spent a good year with the same sales-pitch. At least learn how to persuade me properly."

Jean had at least the shame to blush, as the girl seemed more closed off in recent days. "Fine, don't come back to me crying when you don't get accepted."

"Oh, is that so?" Lisa smirked. "Says the poor girl weeping to me with her complaints when her father denied her the use of blades within her own home. A good friend like me, of course, comforted the poor darling."

"I was ten! And you know it Lisa!"

"I jest," Lisa giggled in delight, happy to at least say her farewells. "Don't get lonely, ya hear? I'm worried sometimes."

"No worries, Lisa. Mother is gone for the day, as the knights are holding a meeting at the headquarters. Auntie Lia is with her."

"What about little Barbara?"

Jean shook her head sadly, there was uncertainty in her eyes. "She's with Father, and they're both spending the week out of the manor. Baby Sis took a liking to the church, and Father does his best in encouraging her. I still don't know why he was adamant with Mother about it."

"I wonder why," Lisa drawled. "Maybe a certain someone is also adamant with her child. Poor girl is run-ragged, I'm afraid."

Jean was quiet after her sarcastic remark. Her friend wouldn't show it, but there was frustration in her eyes too. It came as to recently that Jean was spending less time with her friend, and the ongoing arguments with her parents gave the poor girl a clear picture of what was going on.

The Valley of Windrise was a beautiful sight, as the morning hours gave way to warm winds. Lisa will miss this. She was stubborn like her father, and Lisa will have her apprenticeship, no matter what.

"...When will you come back?" Jean asked. "I know that Sumeru Academy can take a student until they are satisfied with their knowledge or research, some even stay when they are older."

"You doubt me that much?" Lisa gave her friend a knowing smile. "Don't worry, when I find what I am looking for, I'll return home."

"I'll reserve a seat for you at the Knights. You can count on me for that."

Lisa laughed at Jean's adamant wish. There was a certain taste of it, though, staying with the knights. "As much as I love to accompany you Jean, I'm no fighter like you or your mother. Plus, I'm the bookish sort to spend my days reading." Lisa will never admit to being lazy, dammit.

"The-then I shall hold the position of Librarian to you!"

Librarian? Certainly a prestigious position. "Oh Jean, only the Grandmaster can appoint such a position. I doubt my skills would be enough to gain the honor."

That, and too many responsibilities for Lisa to handle.

Her father called out for her, waiting at the back of a caravan. "Leaving already?" Jean asked, very saddened at the pace of the moment. There were times Lisa thinks that time was slow, but at this very moment, Lisa wished that it would have lasted longer. How time flies when you're having fun, indeed.

"I have to, Jean." Lisa gave a sad smile too. "The next available caravan is the day after tomorrow evening, but I'd rather have an early head start just in case of any distractions on the way. Also, the next caravan would only take us to Liyue's Wangshu Inn."

"Fine," Jean pouted furiously. It was very cute, and Lisa wished she owned one of those Kameras she had heard about. "I'll wait on you till you return. No matter what, I'm not going anywhere. As long as I am here, you have a home and a friend to return to."

Lisa was touched at the sentiment, no matter how naive it was. But she believed that Jean would hold true to her words. "Promise? Is there a price for such a thing?"

"Of course not," Jean gave a simple smile. A powerful tool for a future leader. "I'll wait for you. I promise."

Lisa was indeed proud to have a good friend like Jean.

---

Solitude was a curious existence.

Jean felt the wind blow cold to her young face as she waved a final goodbye to her only friend. She wanted to stand strong, like her mother taught her, but she wanted to weep as well.

As a young recruit of the knights, she had proved her mettle during the Initiation tests last month, on the brightest summer days. Jean had a feeling that a longer winter would arrive. A long, but mild one. Bless Barbatos for small mercies at least, as the manor was getting lonely these days.

As Jean saw the last of the caravans vanish into the woods, she gave a heavy sigh before heading back to the home where she had fond memories of. Which are lacking lately, as her relationship with her sister went awkward. Her parents were much worse, sadly.

Jean always respected and loved her father, as the man was the most gentle father there would be. And that was the problem, as her mother's iron mettle clashed against his kind nature. He was lenient on her mother when she was adamant in training Jean personally, thinking it would be a good thing as mother and daughter. Everything went wrong when mother pressed for her doing the trials as early as possible after hearing Diluc passed last year.

Father thought it was good for the boy, as he had good talent and such, but he was horrified when her mother convinced her to do it early as well, but passed without any problems. Her training doubled and tripled in the few months before summer and the winter before that was cold and lonely.

Lisa grewed worried, and Jean wasn't blind to the curious and scared look every time her friend would gaze at Jean's mother. She was in denial, but Jean knew that her world would fall apart soon, if not today then tomorrow. Or the next, and the day after. It was gruelling in just thinking about it.

It was stupid too, trying to count the days.

Jean was supposed to hold her head high after she passed her trials, and she did so. It was her moment, as the older and more experienced knights congratulated her. Diluc, in his Squire attire, and knightly splendor, congratulated her with excitement. He and Kaeya were more than happy for her success, but had to go home for the festival and to see Diluc's ailing mother.

She was to return home, tell her family of her success and celebrate together. Instead, she was greeted by her ecstatic mother, and her disappointed and scared father. Barbara was nowhere to be found. Mother told her to go to her room immediately, and the arguments started, and did not fade in her ears even when she solemnly entered her room.

They'll understand, Jean hoped. Her family would come together, as she prayed.

Nothing bad happened, but nothing improved. Father still took Barbara away, everyday, and most days were spent at the church. Jean would spend every minute, every second, just to see her little sister. Barbara too was happy to see Jean, but it wouldn't last long.

Those precious moments lasted less and less as the days went by. Jean was occupying herself in Captain Varka's company, just to listen in his tales and take some notes over them. No charging in like a maniac, like Varka. No screaming your lungs out, like Varka. And not saying bad words, like Varka.

Jean was taught proper after all. So, no cursing for her.

She was, of course, smart enough to take note of his tone when he was talking. It would be aloof and funny, meaning nothing worthwhile. Or it would be dead serious, meaning something to listen to.

Other than that, Jean had spent her days in the library, trying to catch up with Lisa, but even her friend spent more time studying and preparing. Jean's days with her family and friends were sadly taken in for granted. It was her biggest regret in her life.

The library was empty as usual, as most knights would rather train or do their assigned missions. Sadly, as a recent Initiate, her options were limited. Jean will not be a squire until after her first year in service, or if she proves herself with a great deed. With her father arguing with her mother, Jean wouldn't risk their relationship for glory. If she were to walk out to those gates and look to prove herself like other Initiates looking to be a squire, it would be trouble for her parents.

Her Mother would approve greatly, of course, but it was father that didn't. Risking her life was something he was afraid of. He respected the choice of being trained and was expecting to be a knight. Just not as young as she was. Apart from the Ragnvindr brothers, she was the only one to have passed at an early age. Most initiates were either experienced adventurers or mature enough to handle themselves.

Jean was only twelve.

Her frustrations whittled away when she saw the Librarian, Sir Penam. He was very strict when it came into the books, and was no social creature, but Jean was disciplined enough to earn his respect. Jean cared for the books, as Lisa taught her. She had no better teacher than Lisa. And now she is gone.

"You seemed a bit down," Penam observed. He was organizing a few books in the lower levels of the library. "Did something happen again?"

That something was her terrible and badly growing situation with her parents. Every adult in town knew of their troubles, but they were respectful enough not to push it any further than gossip. Or afraid of her mother. Whichever works, she supposed.

"No, my friend Lisa left for Sumeru." And it still confused Jean why. Lisa was more than smart and competent enough to join the knights, as she only needed battle skills and talent. Jean had a hard time picturing Lisa wielding a sword.

"Ah, as all aspiring educators were," Penam replied with a reminiscing smile. "I was a lad, a bit older than her, when I started my pilgrimage to the center of knowledge. I did not complete my education sadly, as I had nothing to contribute to the Grand Archives."

"What?" Jean asked, bewildered by the fact that a good and smart man like Sir Penam would not complete it. Would Lisa as well? "Why? You are the Knight's Librarian! A prestigious position within the order!"

Penam gave her a sad smile. "To be honest, while I thirst for knowledge which drives my passion, but like all flames do, they simmer down. I needed a purpose in using that knowledge. What better purpose than serving an order of chivalric knights? Not with swords or Vision, mind you, but with wits and intelligence. Which is lacking sadly these days, the Grandmaster is in dire need of wit recently, with all his bombastic and weird decisions."

There was a small glint of repression within the man's eyes, but it disappeared before Jean could think of what he just said. The Grandmaster was strong! Or at least when Jean saw him garnered in the finest of armor and silk. The presence of the man was strong, but his armor was unscathed and no signs of worn. It was weird, now that Jean had thought about it.

Uncle Varka was the opposite. While he was a brute, and a less clean blade he had wielded was blunt, there was no denying that he had a much terrifying presence at times.

"Now, you shouldn't worry much about the wiles of adults," Penam said, noticing the hard look on the child. "In fact, go read a book. Enjoy life, as you won't be a child sooner or later. Grab a few novels to your liking and bring them home, and just make sure to list them down to the ledger." Sir Penam went back to his previous task, organizing books to the nearest shelf, probably a few biographies and token novels. "Also, please do not mind poor Amy. Loneliness is a disease for that child, and do not take personally into whatever she says. Her "persona" seems to get better these days, and I'm afraid of where that might lead her to."

Amy? Jean saw a small tiny figure huddled into the corner, with a large book over her face. The small girl seemed too immersed in it for Jean to interrupt, it would be rude after all.

Maybe a few tales that Barbara likes, and a well-known tale of her hero Vanessa. Jean decided to take her reading to her home, as it would be empty for a few days. She was still an initiate after all, and Jean would not risk her parents' relationship to grow worse than it is. She only wished that Barbara was home.

Solitude felt inadequate to describe her life at the moment.

---

Sacrifice.

If Lisa were asked about the things she would usually do, the answer was simple. Drink her favorite tea and read her books. If life were truly that simple then she really wouldn't be in this predicament. Sometimes she believes the gods to be cruel. Or goddess, if one must be prudent at the current situation.

As Lisa roamed the great sandstone halls of the Sumeru Academy, she noticed the apprentices milling about. To and from, morning till night, the dedicated students of the most prestigious school of Magecraft doing their best to defend their home. There was a certain tension in the air, and it didn't take an Archmage to regard it. One would be a fool to do so, and Lisa was anything but a fool.

She was, if not still, a famed alumnus of the Academy, and by her teacher's words, "The best student to attend in two hundred years." An accomplishment Lisa was still proud of. One cannot fault her boundless curiosity of the unknown. She was never afraid, from the most outlandish secrets of Teyvat to the dangerous knowledge known to even the sophisticated Elders of Sumeru.

But at what cost does that knowledge have? What sacrifices must Lisa do to attain it? She left Sumeru after having those revelations, put off by the horrifying realities she would have faced. Spending her days at Mondstadt as part of the Knights of Favonius didn't sound too bad. As long as it pays well, and if the quality of the books were adequate.

Her days as the Librarian for the Knights weren't half-bad, she got to have new friends, read the best books Mondstadt could buy, and brew the best tea she could ever drink. Her mentor was right in some things, life wasn't bad as simple as it was. It is only best if we enjoy what we have, and never take things for granted. Lisa thought nothing could ruin that life. But until it did. Fate was truly cruel.

The looming threat of Dvalin didn't escalate, fortunately. But the bothering of Fatui "ambassadors" did not ease things for poor Jean. If that wasn't enough, Dvalin managed to casually fly-by Mondstadt causing a little chaos, and roping in a traveler from distant lands. A cute one, at that. Somehow, with his help the situation proved itself, not as fruitless as Lisa deemed it to be. Mondstadt was safe, the Fatui rebuffed, and the Knights had a new member. Albeit, an honorary title at best, but one of them anyhow. Lisa didn't mind, as long as Jean knew what she was doing.

Lisa later found out about the Traveler's outgoing personality. To say that he is selfless and willing to help is a massive understatement. The boy accepts four commissions a day, still does voluntary work for the Knights(mostly from Kaeya), and even manages to wipe out a dozen Hilichurl tribes along the way. Such dedication is admirable, but even Noelle's deeds were humble compared to his. It was inhuman to have the strength and endurance to keep doing that every single day.

Lisa had new and profound respect for their latest member. She was impressed that a junior of hers has the fighting capabilities to outpace and outsmart Kaeya, whilst having to outrun Amber, and somehow minimize the damage dealt by Klee. At least to the bare minimum. Talk about flawless efficiency.

The darling boy even won her approval by gifting her an ancient scroll that somehow escaped her sight. Lisa hates to tolerate such things, but she must admit that she might be getting old. Twenty three is older by children's standards. Anyway, the Traveler did it again, and bought her a Cecilia flower from Flora's shop. Not a bad pick, they were her personal favorite. It would've been more romantic if the boy plucked it himself, whilst climbing Dragonspine on such a perilous journey. All to win a lady's favor. Sadly, business comes first rather than pleasure. And people say she was lazy.

Well, she is. But her pride as Librarian would've been at stake! Those poor, unfortunate, and barely cared for books. Why must humans be so careless, and so dismissive to the beautiful thing known as knowledge. No matter how terrifying it could be. Lisa was still shook, but it does not refuse her drive to know more, and only in moderation. She refuses to acknowledge a sacrifice must be made to accomplish something.

Only desperate fools with no modicum of pride and consciousness would do so.

Shame on them, Lisa would seem not to be associated with those types of people. She would rather throw away her Vision than become something she will regret. Afraid to lose those precious things were the driving force of her current endeavor. No matter how sightless, impossible, or even distasteful, she will accomplish her goals with conviction, rather than sacrifice. But the gods always challenge those with the strongest resolve, and those with indomitable wills. Lisa does not know if she is one of those champions, but she doesn't want to. Not because she is a humble Librarian.

Only because she fears what she would lose in the process. Her family? The Knights. Her Friends? Jean. Kaeya. Amber. Traveler...

And her home, Mondstadt. The sweet smell of endless fields of flowers, the calm and gentle winds of the bountiful cliffs, and well-nurtured and thriving wildlife. Oh, and those local Hilichurl tribes. They caused trouble, but weren't that bad. Not like those in the Abyssal Order. Surprisingly, it was ruled by a Princess. A human. One that has close relations with the Traveler. It seems life managed to surprise her again.

"Master Lisa, the envoys from Liyue arrived," one of the scribes called to her attention. "The Elders wish to convene a meeting right now."

Lisa frowned, as much as wants to spend her free time, urgent matters always called her name. To have accomplishments such as hers is an honor, but for her it was a mere hassle. Oh, how she misses her self-brewed tea. And those lonely books…

"Is it urgent?"

Lisa doesn't want to be a prude, but does it really call for her attention? If she must, she will fight tooth and nail for a little bit of freedom to herself. All have been run-ragged from the preparations including herself. She couldn't even take a nap, and skipping a little meeting did not sound so bad.

"I'm afraid so, Master Lisa. La Signora and the Fatui commanders are already present, as well as the Leader of the Qixing. They only await your presence."

Her brows perked in surprise, and thought to herself, "Lady Ningguang I can understand, but the Harbinger as well?"

Lisa wasn't blind to the blunt animosity given towards her by La Signora. To be fair, the Harbinger shows her animosity towards anyone she comes across. Lately though, the utter silence given by the Harbinger was nerve racking for her. La Signora rarely shows any interests in council, but giving her undivided attention now makes Lisa have second thoughts. Maybe it was a dire matter after all.

"Very well, inform the council that I shall attend immediately."

The scribe nods in recognition before going his own way. Lisa, now alone in the massive and empty halls, walked towards the center of the Academy. Thinking about the solemn questions that festers around her thoughts, and the doubts of her conviction plagues her mind along the way.

---

Aether gasped as he jumped from his slumber. Cold sweat notoriously drips from his forehead, eyes frantic and searching for a threat that isn't there. The cold wind of Autumn greeted him and the fallen leaves swept the rolling fields of grass. Steadying his breathing, Aether slumped from the tree that in his moments of solitude comforted him. The tree where Vanessa would always reside in her free time, and the place of rest and meditation for the Acting Grandmaster.

"What was that?" sighed Aether, as he wiped off the sweat. "That was so real, as if the dream, so lucid, was a fraction of a memory."

A memory that was not his, but one of his old friends. Why would he remember Lisa as of now? They were close, as close as assistant to manager can be. How had he become a slave to that woman's whims when Aether settled for a bit before his journey escaped him. "Don't tell me I am having wet dreams. I will not be able to live that down."

Not that he thinks that Lisa is anything but attractive, but there were certain standards Aether lives up to. The Librarian was smart, calm, collected, and steadfast. If not a bit lazy at times. Many of the Knights would admit that visiting the Library with another agenda was quite common among the men. With women too, not that Aether was surprised. But Lisa was right about him and Aether's fleeing fantasies. As if Aether could compete with grown ups, older women were beyond his capabilities.

But that was not the problem, and as mysterious as it was, Aether was a curious person too. How did Aether dream about a memory he doesn't have? At that time, he and his party were on their way to Natlan. Having the ears of another full fledged Archon can steer the tide of war to a much more favorable outcome. He had never even been to Sumeru, and never witnessed it. But why did the chords of nostalgia play into his emotions?

The smell of nature at its highest, the raw energies of elemental spheres flowing like a river, and the scent of fresh water lilies dominated the air. Like it was a place Aether was rather fond of. Even the people he never spoke to, or even met, felt like an old friend that he had not seen in a long time. Why would sensations of familiarity feel so good? And the feeling of dread still lingered. Was this how Lisa felt? Impossible, what kind of curse must Aether endure for him to witness such a thing?!

He had heard of how Sumeru fell within the day, and how the final stand at the academy left no survivors. Aether and his friends were spared from such horrors. But now, in this moment, at the peak of his breaking point, Aether must witness atrocities that already happened? He doubted he could feel sane after doing so. But the sensations of Lisa's emotions as well?

"I could not handle that, I've already lost so much!"

Just thinking of witnessing more people die made his heart ache more than it should have. Was the death of his comrades that fought with him, and died in process, not enough to satisfy the hunger for cruelty?! Must he witness the final moments of his friends again? And again, again, and again. What was the meaning of this? Aether thought he could escape from that rabbit hole of insanity when he arrived back to the past. He thought by fixing the mistakes he made, maybe his friends would forgive him, and maybe the hollowed promises he made would make him feel better. But it seems that Fate planned to expose the truth of his words once more.

There was no chance in the first place. The past would haunt him for the rest of his life. Even when he saves his family, seeing their grateful smiles, endless cheers, and Lumine's happiness, the truth of the matter will stick to him. Until his final breath.

The chance he was given, ultimately paid by the blood of his friends and family. Of how the mountain of corpses he stood on was his legacy. Of how the people suffered, and his friends one-by-one threw themselves to the pit of eternal death for his sake. For the chance that he and his reunited sister might go home. Was all that bloodshed worth it in the end? No.

What he got was a piss-poor excuse to fix that mistake, and only when every single soul that Aether knows was gone. He was just afraid to be alone. Yes, he had accepted death, but when hope was given to him again he took it without respite. Now, look where he is...

In the middle of nowhere, afraid to contact anyone he knows because he would be afraid of what to tell them. Of how he traveled back in time to save the world? Ha, Aether wouldn't be surprised if they did not hesitate to throw him to the mental ward after the first sentence. Maybe he traveled a little far back, and none of the people he loves even knows him? That will straighten his sanity to nowhere. No help, no support, and no one would care.

Why did he do this on a whim? On Paimon's behest? No, it was his selfishness that led him here.

What should he do now?

Tired of leaning against the tree, Aether stood up and gazed upon the mighty structure. Jean once brought him here, and told him of why this place was so calming. As if the winds heeds their worries, and rewards a gentle wind. At times they would spar, and Jean would teach him proper swordsmanship. Rather than relying on his own talents and power. Form and technique can rule a battlefield. Any stance can change the outcome of any conflict, after or before they start.

He owed Jean so much, her tutelage, her advice, and her presence alone could calm his nerves. But how did Aether pay her back? By letting her little sister die, getting Mondstadt burned to the ground, and letting her friends sacrifice themselves for him. Aether wouldn't let Jean's disappointed and angry image dismay his courage. She would never do that. That's how selfless she was.

Her words, the oath that her family was born to say and do are printed in his mind. The moniker that Jean passed unto him.

"For Mondstadt, as always."

This time would be different, and Aether will make sure that it isn't just a promise. An oath, and a solemn vow to protect not just Mondstadt but the world itself. With or without anyone's help. He could do it alone. He has the future knowledge, and Aether knows each and every foe's weaknesses. He knows why and when they will appear. It is only a matter of time, and when he musters up the courage, then he shall introduce himself to his future family.

His plan? Became an official knight, rise up through the ranks, impress the Acting Grandmaster, make friends with Kaeya, and get on the good side of Lisa. Charm Amber to help him, make some allies at the Adventurer's Guild, and look for Venti. Save Dvalin, demand an audience with his sister when the Abyssal Order appears, and plan his unification of Teyvat. Bait La Signora using the useless bard, and prevent them from stealing the Gnosis. Convince Zhongli not to abandon his people yet, and encourage him to speak to the other Archons from the looming threat.

All of this, whilst keeping Paimon in the dark. As much as he wants to immediately save his precious guide, Paimon would've wanted to prioritize the world first. She will understand when the Goddess is defeated, and help her gain independence. They would return to their adventures, with his sister and friends alive this time, and enjoy the rest of his life in this world.

Gazing at Venti's statue, the image of the great and powerful Archon of Wind did not fit the drunken bard's attitude. Maybe it shall stay that way, or maybe if he is convinced to actively protect his people maybe Barbatos would like a taste to punch the Goddess' face. Aether would happily oblige, if he would go first that is.

"Even at uncertain times, the people of Mondstadt still believe in you. I just hope I do too."

It was only yesterday when he woke up from Adelinde's abode, and spent the entire day trading and bargaining with the locals at Springvale. Fortunately, none of the knights were actively patrolling that area. It would be bad if Amber caught him early on, so he strayed away from the north-east of Mondstadt. He knows she was surveying the area for Hilichurl activities. Using that knowledge, he navigated himself eastwards, to the falcon coast and to Venti's tree.

Spending his well-earned Mora as he still has plenty, he bought a silver sword since he doesn't have any weapons on him anymore. He had mostly relied on his precious blade when his angelic powers returned. And when Lumine gave hers away, in her final moments. The look of regret on Lumine's face, coupled with sadness will forever be engraved in his every thought. In her last breath she declared him Lord of the Abyss, Sword of Unending Dawn, and Prince. To have a chance to fly and have the power to rescue his friends from a dire situation, she gave her light for him to use. Every last one, including her blade, the blade that was now his. And was lost in the battle between the Goddess and Aether.

Witnessing the sun setting on the horizon, the silhouette of Mondstadt reminds him of his mission, to save the people he cares about, and protect the world from utter destruction.

The statue was the first step to do so, and when that was over, he would go over to Mondstadt and render his mistakes. Taking tentative steps to the base of the structure, he gently touched the pillar holding the Archon of Wind. All the doubts that plagued his mind, all images of his friends that perished, and the voices of those he lost were now silent. Maybe it wasn't so bad after all.

A sphere of pure Anemo energy flew towards his chest, and both the Anemo and his soul reunited once more. The power of a thousand winds surged his veins, as the bellowing thunder roared across the skies, and the gentle breeze turned malice, blasting everything in the vicinity. Whisking away light-weighted objects as if dust in the wind. Never had he felt so much power, and what does it mean? He may have not noticed, but the Anemo users across the region felt that sudden urge to unleash theirs as well. He may have not known it, he may not believe it, and no one will ever notice. The Wolf of the North, Dvalin who still slumbers, and Venti had the sensation of something. Something familiar. The Champion of the Wind.

The grey clouds parted, and the wind turned silent. Feeling tired, Aether called the day. Maybe tomorrow he will find his answers. For now, he shall slumber throughout the night with no dilemma. He found an abandoned mine along the way, somewhere at the crossroads between Springvale and Mondstadt. A perfect place to settle for a while and until he can afford housing in the city. And maybe those visions of Lisa during his nap were a fluke, something his own damaged mind conjured up. This time for sure, he will have a nice slumber. Maybe Fate wouldn't be so cruel to give another one?

---

Power.

Since the first white snow fell on the streets of Sneznhaya, the harsh and uncaring winds of the Everwinter splashed towards her childlike face, and the unbearable pain of hunger she had made a promise. She swore to the accursed gods that she will have her vengeance towards the world. Those cold lonely nights, and the terrifying sensation of frostbite clawing beneath the skin made her entire childhood.

Her fears and instinct was honed to her advantage, any foes she made in the street would know her name, and those who had wronged her will feel the sensation she did as the scared girl she was back then. The bitter cold, and the merciless frost. The gods had somehow approved of her determination to not only live another day, but thrive in this cruel world as well. Her own Vision appeared to her at the moment of her near demise. Or suffering.

La Signora still remembers those primal and hungry looks those older boys had given her, when cornered at an empty alley. She was so close, close to living out her own life. Free from hunger and those cold nights in the streets. If she were to only snatch that jeweled necklace from those groups of older children. Sons of lower nobles of the city. Then the torment would finally end.

But fate was cruel, and the moments of those horrifying monsters endured to her memory. Of how they touched her like never before, and the sensation given to the poor girl was too much. They would have gone further, and she could not imagine enduring something like that. In that bitter moment, she pleaded with the gods for mercy! She never begged, not like those other street rats. Even to this day, the pathetic whimper she let out as they nearly forced themselves onto her haunted her memories.

But she refused. No gods will answer, so she must do it herself. A call to the harsh cold, and the uncaring wind was made. And it answered. Never in that moment she would've thought she would like the new sensation of the cold. Merciless, yet gentle winds interrupted the boys' fun. Laughter was replaced by horrified screams of terror as her poor victims froze like statues to her honor. The victor stomped out of the alley of broken ice shards, priceless jewelry in tow.

Gone was the girl who fought with tooth and nail, whimpered as she endured that distasteful experience, and emerged a new woman. A being who will bring the coldest of winds to her foes. The deadly winters of Sneznhaya heed to her call. And no being shall ever prove themselves in front of her again, lest they would face the sensation of death, in its coldest form. And after that fateful night, power will be her only friend.

That is, until she met the Tsaristsa.

Her Holiness had given her, a street urchin, a chance to take on against the gods. Against the cruel world. All she had to do was trust the good doctor. The smiling doctor.

It was the first time she had tasted fire.

Heat was essential in the wintery lands of Snezhnaya. But this heat was different. It was agony, pain, sadness, and pure unadulterated hatred. The child that grew up on the streets was dead, and the being that was the Witch and the Lady was reborn from the ashes of a love unfulfilled.

La Signora withheld a scowl as Lisa entered the council room, marching here like she owns the place and made her cold veins burn. But nonetheless Lady Minci proved her worth. How else would Lisa earn the title of Grand Custodian from her late mentor? Not arriving to bear such news and immediately was "awarded" with the title. La Signora had a feeling Lisa despised the title, as she would witness the witch give a dark look towards those who used it.

"Grand Custodian, fancy you to finally join us," she greeted, and to her amusement the witch's eyebrows twitched. Alas, entertainment must be shoved aside for the important matters at hand.

"Ahem, as much as I love to indulge in socializing, there is urgent news to report from the east."

As usual, Lady Ningguang would rather focus on the matters at hand, but considering the report given to her by her own agent, the situation was terrifying to imagine. "Is it the Pillars?"

The Qixing gave her knowing looks, "Unfortunately, I will confirm the presence of Pillars around the eastern region, but Inazuma were spared from their wrath. They are more focused on the siege of Mondstadt and the occupation of Liyue Harbor."

Yes, the Pillars of Rebirth. Former Harbingers with the power of delusion and the blessing of their new 'god' made the biggest threat towards Teyvat's Grand Coalition of Nations. The limitless firepower coupled with their independent actions can cause severe stress to any forces. To think she would have to fight, if not kill her own comrades. Former or not.

The brute that was Childe always looks for ways to annoy her, but in certain aspects La Signora genuinely respects that man-child. His cunning is unquestionable, but only that savage attitude of his was the downfall of his own sanity. Unfortunately, his skills in violence translated to his new form, and of course life was anything but easy.

"There is good news though, Tartaglia was finally beaten. Grandmaster Varka succeeded in their campaign to liberate Sneznhaya. They are on the way to Mondstadt," said Ningguang, and La Signora thinks this is a personal victory. That was one less Pillar to deal with. Though, was the Qixing giving sympathetic looks towards the Grand Custodian. How curious, but none of her business.

Ningguang called out a servant of hers, and one that looks familiar and the reliable messenger of the Qixing. This one was a young woman with luscious lavender hair, braided like cat ears. There was a grim air around her, though warranted considering the people of Liyue suffered without even a year or two after their Archon 'died.' Ah, yes she remembered well. The Yuheng must've had her worldview shattered. Without the infinite wisdom of Rex Lapis, or even the active protection his Adepti her belief that humans themselves can stand without the gods' protection must've been seen as heretical and traitorous. Not that Signora blames her, common folk these days are bigots themselves, and do not even get started with those nobles from Liyue.

Leaving at the moment's notice, or cooperating with the invasion forces were the most basic of their strategies. In the end, that left the unfortunate people below them to look out for themselves. It created a divide amongst the population, and escalated more when the Qixing rebelled. Somehow, the nobles and high merchants had the guts to go against the Qixing and blatantly supported the occupation forces.

This left a bitter pill to swallow for poor little Ningguang. "But if there is any consideration from me, welcome to the club." Well, that was what she wanted to express, but left it entirely alone. She was a cruel woman, but there was a limit to measure up to.

"Is the Tsaritsa safe? What of the people?"

The Tianquan gave her the attention and replied, "Yes, there are confirmed reports of her sighting, but classified information was given. Safe to say your Archon is fine."

"And the people?" La Signora was curious and scared to know. How many were lost? The unsure look of Ningguang made her simmering heart clench.

"The people though," her face scrunched up, giving unsure looks, but La Signora giving a reassuring nod prompted her to continue. "Only a fraction of them were rescued, the rest already perished before they arrived. Most died of starvation, others succumbed to the cold, and the rest were kept prisoners of war. They were too late. My condolences."

Downcast eyes gazed at the floor, the revelation given was staggeringly unpleasant for her. She never cared for the 'home' she came from, but the people who lived there? Prideful they may be, but strong and enduring. She and her followers would mourn the dead, and lament for their lost homeland. Barely ten thousand citizens of Sneznhaya? A loss so great, there might be no Sneznhaya again.

And their Archon. Never the same again, more calm and settled. Without her Gnosis, the Archon of Frost would never be the same. Speaking of the Gnosis' that she successfully stole, there was no intel on that front. The Goddess was collecting them though, that was enough proof that the Goddess needed them for some unknown purpose. Could it be…?

Shaking her head off that thought, Signora's gaze falls on Lisa. The poor woman was conversing with that Yuheng girl, and it seemed terrible news. What ungodly fate had befallen her? To give a look of grieving, and unhindered rage. The room seemed to suffocate as Electro energies surge through the walls and floor.

Power. She needed more power, if not to take revenge on the gods, then to at least kill that bitch who caused this. But as of now, she was powerless, and without the support from her Archon and the power of her delusion was out of the question. The goddess enslaved her fellow Harbingers using those and Signora isn't really excited to be mind-controlled by a merciless god.

She'll have to use her ice more sparingly then.

"We need a strategy, we can't just stay like this. Our foe is always on the move and we must find how she does it," said Signora. "Lady Minci, can you find out how? It would prove invaluable to the cause, and let my agents help. They know some intel from Sneznhayan history books."

Giving the Fatui a determined look, and steeling her gaze, she replies, "I will. I just need time."

"We will give you time," said Ningguang. "But we must fortify ourselves, I have a feeling Sumeru would be the next target. And when they arrive, we will be ready."

La Signora nods in gratitude, "I'll leave that up to you. My forces are already stationed around the city, and even the local Hilichurl tribes are already busying themselves outside the city. They were led by a group of Abyss Mages sent by their princess."

Huh, Hilichurls commanded by a human. She must be strong, and somehow that traveling brat managed to gain her allegiance. How?

Nevermind, "I'll see to it that the outer perimeter is set for a siege."

Rumbling thundered outside the room, the numerous screams knocked the discussion off the floor. The Qixing and her companion readied themselves, Lady Lisa was shocked but wore it off quickly, and Signora herself already rallied her officers. "All Fatui forces are to be deployed immediately, rally our troops."

Individual cries of the room's occupants occurred, the general conscientious agreed and each to their own heads out. The Yuheng herself rushed out the council doors as they were opened, only to be greeted by a traitor skirmisher. The massive man swung his hammer towards her, but the girl proved herself capable as Keqing flashed behind him. A flurry of sword strikes greeted the man's back, a mere second later he was finished.

The conflict continued, as dozens more appeared along the halls. Skirmishers, agents, mages, and a couple of mercenaries piled out of the corners and went straight towards them. How foolish, do they not know the foes they face? A Harbinger of the Fatui, a knight of Favonius, and the leading star of the Qixing with her Yuheng adviser. They were a literal army of their own, and these fools thought they could outmatch them?

But the dread lingered. Why? Because she was here as well. Hollow laughter echoed the halls, as the shriek of death and suffering thundered. Not even the coldest of winds made La Signora flinch, but those baleful eyes filled with amusement and malice made her shudder in fear.

---

Varka walked out of the Knight's Headquarters feeling satisfied with himself. He shoved the old man in his place when the bastard actually protested. The city needs you, Varka! Without its greatest protector, Mondstadt is defenseless! Defenseless my ass. And who's fault was that?

He doesn't want to admit it, but the Knights weren't those great warriors of old, chivalry and honor on their sleeves. No, now the once prestigious organization of the City of Freedom is merely a shadow of its former glory. What caused the Knights to change this way? Have they forgotten the tenets of which the order founded itself? The principles that Vanessa created were now lost and forgotten, mere dust blown by the winds of Mondstadt and the curse of time.

Varka wanted to join the Knights to hound all the glory, as any young hot-blooded lad. But that naive, stubborn mule of a boy lost comrades in his blind march to fame. And to his shame, he relied on the older, and much more experienced knights along the way. Thinking that those knights that he looked up to were like the ones in the stories. One, where he would give out an arm to save his comrade, and spent their vigilant nights patrolling the land and protecting the people.

But little-by-little, the image of those brave warriors turned into cowards using masks to hide their true nature. Others would willingly leave their comrades behind, 'To honor their brave sacrifice.' Not even hesitating to do so. And countless nights were spent on harboring the self-skewed ideals of Barbatos' freedom by doing what they want, drinking and celebrating their time away from their duties.

This wasn't how Varka envisioned the knights to be, drunken bastards with seldom honor, and no sense of justice. As if justice wasn't on their side. By the laws placed by Vanessa, the knights were the representation of the proper justice system for Mondstadt. Not as complex or equally-sophisticated as Fontaine, but more fair and less-flair. Ours don't really wear fancy wigs and scream across the hall like a maniac. Varka only does it on the battlefield, so that doesn't count. But now Mondstadt's humble courtroom is filled with corrupt officials and rich assholes. He only wished to wipe those arrogant looks on their faces when they were 'victimized' by commoners.

Disillusioned, but not willing to give up, Varka spent his years serving the knights with an embittered heart.

Day after day, week after week, and when the years started rolling, Varka earned the title of Calvary Captain in a blink of an eye. With that kind of authority, he shaped his own Knight Company to his standards. They were a little unwilling at first, some even complained to the top brass, but after several good 'spars' those who proved themselves capable were now proper knights. Not as good as Varka, but progress was made. His achievements through the battles he faced even outshine some of the so-called 'Great Adventurers' and their 'impossible deeds.' Bullshit. There was only one true adventurer among those folks. And he may have tested her steel, and had his ass beaten subsequently. Songs and tales were made, and that proved a powerful tool against the corrupt, especially against the Grandmaster. Piss off enough commoners, they have the right to go against the knights. And Varka will stand behind them.

But not now, the situation proved itself impossible. Majority of the knights are corrupt as it is, and even the other branches are not safe. The Church of Favonius looks like those who supported the powerful nobles of old, using religion as a weapon against the poor folks, and stealing every Mora a commoner can spare. The Alchemist Division does not give a shit, whoever gives them data and the resources needed for their research will have their support. Varka does not have that type of cash, and he really isn't the brightest of the knights. So he doesn't have the capability to give what they want.

But when he earned fame, the bigwigs at the top tried to 'recruit' him to their inner-circle. They were not even subtle about it! Bastards asked him when he was eating out with the boys on their vacation time. His troops would barely look at him anymore.

It was midday, and the skies were calm as daisy. Or something, Varka never was good at metaphors. At the very least he knew how to write, and read. His mom was the best! Yet, the feeling of dismay churned his stomach. Was it just him, or was the wind a little too calm? The air of solemn vibes lingered. Emotions running turmoil. Never mind, now that he convinced the old cunt to change his duties for a while, he can blow off some steam.

And he knows the certain place at Dadaupa gorge to do so. Those Hilichurl tribes better not start killing among themselves. Not without Varka that is!

"Oi, Varka."

He stowed his creepy smile away, and gazed at the person who called out to him. "Wagner! Come to hammer my problems away? Feel free to do so, bastard."

Said bastard was a young man in his mid-twenties, black hair, with dark golden eyes. He wears a white open shirt and a leather strap from his shoulder to his hips. A belt with countless pouches that Varka isn't so sure how many he has. Both his hands were wrapped in bandages, and wore leather gloves. A stereotypical blacksmith, if one would ask Varka, but his skills and dedication to the craft was second to none. A mere apprentice but already making headway with his own craft.

"If I can only hammer away that filthy mouth of yours, I would be more willing to do so, trust me," laughed Wagner. Varka knew he liked that guy somehow. The laughs they would share, and the drinks they would drown at together. He never would believe if the bastard would become a serious-faced blacksmith. Varka could barely picture it, alone witnessing it as well.

"Hey Wagner, have you finished my order? The claymore I use is good and all, but I like that personal touch, you know?" Not that Varka has anything for big swords. He really just wants to hit hard.

"As if," scoffed Wagner. "I like to take my time in making my masterpiece. Imagine it, a new class of claymore awaits. Plus, aiding in my master's workshop hindered the progress a little bit."

Damn that old codger! Master Jerich was proud of his apprentice and all, but the old man really can't let the craft go. The man's a stud or somethin' and has been in this business for over forty years. The old stallion really is someone to admire, though. No wonder Wagner knew how to choose his mentor well.

"Seriously?" whined Varka.

He needed that sword, as the blade would take him up to heights Varka had never experienced before. His Waster Greatsword is great and all, but a better and more polished blade can change the tide of battle. Lately his blade is becoming more blunt. As the edge seems to give out on the amount of force sometimes Varka unleashes on his foes. It's been hitting more than slashing lately.

But there is another reason why Varka can't wait. If the prototype of the White Iron Greatsword works as intended, then the standardization of the blade will be more common throughout the order. Making their claymore wielders more effective than ever before. And I must acquire these before those bastards do. That's right, Varka wanted to have an advantage against those senior officers and the current leadership of the Order.

If the day comes that is. Varka may be strong, but strength alone cannot win a battle. Resources and strategy were at the forefront of any conflict. He had none, and the dwindling support from his own troops was sadly common. To escalate the tension, the requirements to do so were far beyond his reach. Maybe in a few years Varka shall gather a trusted few, not only in the knights but other places as well, and begin planning their revolt against the current leadership.

"At least it's on the way," he beamed, perking an eyebrow from his friend. "With a better sword, I can handle any foe! If only the Order would let me wield a Favonius Greatsword."

"Ha, in your current state and your recent blunder with the Grandmaster, it might take a while," doubted Wagner. And Varka hates to admit it, but he was right.

Not only did Varka reject their 'generous' offer but insulted the bastard as well. They were lucky only words were exchanged. If not, there wouldn't be a Grandmaster. The lucky prick only saved his skin by conceding to Varka's change of duties. For a very long while at least.

The gates of the city were guarded by two knights, Sir Alfred and George. Competent recruits, but green in every single way. The only reason they were stationed at a comfy spot is because of their rich families. They wouldn't know that though. As expected of any inexperienced knight, boredom was clearly evident on their faces. Not that Varka was any different, he will pound any cunt to suggest he takes guard duty. Well, last time some prick actually suggested so, he went for a hospitalized status for months. After his release from care, he immediately 'retired' from service. Not one soul since then tried.

Spotting a high ranking officer, George salutes, "Captain, what a surprise."

Alfred saluted as well, "On a super secret mission, sir?"

Ah, good lads. Dependable, if not clueless at times, but Varka trusts them to do tasks he deems important. Heck, he even saw Alfred's skill with a sword, never witnessing strikes as fast as Alfred does it. George's love for the spear would seriously rival a Millelith lieutenant's. It is truly unfortunate to have such talented lads being held back. Maybe Varka shall treat them and let them accompany him next time.

"Good to see you boys eager, but sadly this is a secret mission," he lamented. "Just prepare for any action, a good knight is ready at a moment's notice."

"Sir!"

Booth lads nodded their heads, but solemnly accepted it. "Good, keep the watch up. The city needs its protectors." More now than ever, Varka sighed.

"Take care not to accidentally commit genocide, Varka," chuckled Wagner. The cheeky prick.

He scoffed playfully at his friend and went on his own way, sword packed at the back, and his posture confident. At a corner of his eyes he spotted a young girl, olive green eyes shined with admiration. Knowing a knight is on his way to protect the nation's borders brought up the brightest smile she would ever give. Varka truly knows that the protection of Mondstadt is at jeopardy, and he hopes to render those mistakes soon. If not, then Mondstadt is well and truly doomed.

---

The cold water splashed on his face did nothing but make him shiver in the cold morning. He has a feeling that fate really wanted to see him suffer, as the dreams continued to haunt him throughout the night. Aether had a feeling he didn't have a wink of slumber last night. The hours he spent calming his mind, and wiping off sweat, took a massive toll on his sleep hours.

"Damn, what is going on?" he whispered, feeling more exhausted than yesterday.

The vision of La Signora, of all the people he had to dream of, bewildered him more. It still frustrates him to no end of how these 'dreams' would bother him. There were even more of the raw emotions from yesterday running around and rampaging on his thoughts. Only different. Lisa's vision was more calm and situated, but Signora's was more calculated and alert. Giving Aether the inert feeling of pure paranoia. He had to suppress another shudder from his spine. Morning hours were supposed to be calm, not unbelievably cold. Damn it.

With a heavy sigh, he took a look at his reflection at the clear water of the river. His eyes look dead, golden hue more dull than ever, and hints of dark circles beneath his eyes were present. Normally a lack of sleep on Aether's part means nothing. He went on adventures days on end without camping or sleeping. But why does it happen now? The dreams…

Forcing himself to stand, Aether returned to his previous tasks. Inventory of his stuff takes priority, and with the longs days ahead of him he must prepare for the worst. Who knows what would happen before the threat of Stormterror abound. Aether fully knows that the Abyss Order is assembling the local Hilichurl Tribes. For what purpose? He knows why, when, and how. He'd better be ready for that.

His new sword already has a leather strap, set ready on his hips, and a brown cloak he had bought yesterday already worn. Hiding his outlandish outfit and new blade. He'd rather not bring any attention to himself, not until he was truly ready. The Stormterror threat seems absent. How curious. No matter, Dvalin will show himself sooner or later. The knights must've tried to cover it up. But with Jean as Acting Grandmaster, she wouldn't need to do so. Her presence and words of assurance alone could quell any dissent.

Another matter he must solve, how many problems must he face? Give him a break, dammit. He really needs this sleep. The nightmares haven't settled, and Aether is afraid to take another try doing so. Whatever, he may find a lucky break when he settles on a comfy bed. The cold dirt ground inside the mines may not have been the most comfortable place.

With his appearance settled, and the rucksack filled with all the necessities tightly secured and safely on his shoulders, he shall exit the cave, and towards the entrance of the mines.

Iron Rails and carts filled with raw materials littered the cave. Whatever caused the previous owners to abandon such a place was curious. There was no hurry or any rush, but it would seem that the mine lost its value. It was weird to see such resources left alone, the uses it could bring to the fold would be useful for the long run. The amount of white iron and crystals were evidently abundant, with such resources on hand Aether could arm an entire army.

Aether had to berate himself, there was no war. No immediate threat. The war that Aether fought wouldn't exist for another two years or so, if Aether thought it was the time he had awoken in this world after being trapped by the goddess. He spent five years in Teyvat, and it feels much longer than that.

The first year he spent in Mondstadt, meeting Amber, the Knights, and Diluc on the quest to quell the Stormterror threat and help Dvalin restore his freedom from the Abyssal Order. Then when the time was right, he and Paimon head towards Liyue Harbor, to attend the Rite of Descension, and meet with Rex Lapis.

Unfortunately, the Fatui were plotting something, and with the assassination of Rex Lapis things turned worse for him and his guide. They were suspected to be perpetrators, and were hunted down. They managed to reach the Sanctum of an Adepti, seeking help from them. Meeting each one was a novel experience for him, all the puzzles and tasks he would do were memorable, and the meal he made for the Conqueror of Demons were weird as well. Who knew ghosts can possess a Ruin Hunter?

The threat also was quelled, especially after the battle against Osial, Overlord of the Vortex. Thankfully no one perished, and the matters between the Qixing and Adepti were peacefully resolved. Baal was right, though. Because the struggle for another day was just on the horizon, and not one soul would ever predict what would happen next.

Aether spent three years with his comrades, fighting a war that had torn the world apart. Friends were made, family lost along the way, and many heroes sacrificed themselves. All throughout that, his friends grew up from impressionable kids into young men and women, scarred from battles and experienced in violence than any kids their age.

That reminds him, biologically, he turned twenty. No wonder why he feels taller, as tall as Diluc when Aether first met him. His reach with his blade was also evident when he clashed with the monstrous entity that the goddess summoned. He could hold more elemental power than before, only a single element at a time. He grew stronger, and his strength could surpass his past-self.

With an advantage like that he could easily change the war by himself, if he was cautious and prepared for when the time comes. He won't lose this round. The power of this world's elements would gave him the needed tools to defeat the God of Time. But he still needed the resources to combat her future worshipers, and to counter any armies she would have, Aether must gather an army for himself.

The knights would do, if he can convince Varka, the Grandmaster, of the future threat. And helping to solve Stormterror would give Aether leverage. The support of the Archons would do as well. Bringing Morax into the fold would be easy, he just needed to have an audience with him. And the Rite would begin soon, an opportunity to not waste in Aether's opinion.

Now that he had exited the cave, the plains of Windrise and the Hero's Tree were visible to him. To think the largest battle took place in here, the heart of Mondstadt's Liberation. Thousands of men and women lost their lives in the struggle to free the city of the darkness that consumed it. The battle was won, but at what cost? Untold knights of Favonius perished, even some allies like the Fatui and the Millelith were not spared from the outcome, and the horrors of witnessing fields of corpses rotting throughout the once pristine and healthy grass was an experience that Aether doesn't want to relive.

Even after that terrible struggle, the city was lost in the end. The knights that survived the battle of Windrise, did not survive the fall of Mondstadt. Plenty of his friends perished as well. Albedo died protecting an injured Klee, whilst his apprentice and assistant, Sucrose, died with him. Lisa wasn't present, she was at Sumeru helping the war effort by contributing to find a way to take down the goddess. Diluc and Jean already perished. Varka died with the defenders during the fall. Amber and Kaeya were with Aether after the battle, on the way to Natlan to ask for help.

To receive the news by an injured and tired knight, who saw the untold horrors himself. What remains of the Adventurer's Guild escorted him all the way to Natlan. The look of grief from Kaeya, and the shrieking cries of Amber imprinted on the back of his mind would sometimes repeat when he was alone with his thoughts. Noelle, who was already at the embassy of Natlan, rallied some of the knights that accompanied Aether and returned to the ruined Mondstadt to save those who might have survived the fall. She was never heard from again.

His idle wandering led him westward, as he was hoping to find a certain Alchemist to help him, and if fate would give him a chance, he might encounter the illustrious Mona Megistus. If there was any person who could find proof of his endeavor, it would be her. Sure, she was a bit off on the daily necessities of mortality. Like food, and basic expenses. Oh, the Mora she would throw into her research would make even Diluc hurl in horror at the expenses Mona would spend.

Albedo on the other hand could help with something Aether was planning before the assault at the goddess' fortress at the Abyss. A weapon that could erase life, and if Albedo would forbid him doing so, Aether would find another way. But there should be a chance to get rid of that bitch with a weapon that can kill a god. He just hadn't found any.

But that was before, now there was something he could do, and he was in possession of it. Requiem, End of the Beginning. The very item that the goddess used to outplay Aether and the rest of the world. And the very tool that led Aether where he was now. Or when.

The loud chatter of the market in Springvale was rather calm and more organized than the open markets of the city. Merchants selling their wares, both foreign and local items, scattered around. Farmers with their produce taking most of the attention, and with the winter season on the way more focus on the foodstuff than any other stores.

Weird, it was mid-spring when he first arrived. Did he jump a little ahead or did he travel a few months prior to his arrival? Damn, if so he might want to revise his plans. No matter, a little late or early, it did not change the fact that the world would be in shambles. So who gives a damn.

"Something wrong, good sir?" asked a merchant, the man he was looking for. "Ya look a little off, awoke on the wrong side of the bed?"

The guy who greeted him was a boy at Aether's age, his prominent red hair flowing down beneath his shoulders, and those sharp lavender eyes were unique enough to warrant Aether's attention.

"You could say that," grunted Aether.

He really needs to hold his emotions, the frown on his face was unfortunately prominent during his walk towards the town. He might have given a wrong impression to the townsfolk. "Apologies, rough morning and a long night shook my mood a little," he sighed.

The merchant nods in understanding, "Make sure to uplift yourself, it's the Harvest Festival after all."

Oh yeah, he missed the festival since he was on his way to Liyue. Amber still hasn't forgiven him about that, and Klee gave him the silent treatment for a long while. It was rather common for most to celebrate, not as much as the Harpastum, and to enjoy the bountiful harvests of the dedicated farmers. So, it was his first time celebrating it rather, but he should really focus on the matters at hand. He can enjoy future festivities with his friends and family whole, then not.

Seeing another frown marred Aether's face, the merchant just rolled his eyes. "Seriously, with that look of yours it might scare the young ladies away. Though, with how attractive you are, I highly doubt that it would discourage them anyhow."

To prove his point, the man gestured towards a gathered crowd of girls giggling and chattering at his embarrassed expense. Aether couldn't rid the blush on his face on time, making the girls swoon even harder. Some fanned themselves off, a little hot and bothered by his mysterious and cute appearance.

Aether couldn't comprehend how embarrassed he was right now. Damn, even the merchant is giving him knowing looks. As if proving a point, one of the girls approached him, and probably a little older than the other women gathered. And the only one without those shy looks, but she still looked a little anxious.

"Hey there, new to town? My name's Josephine," she greeted, and ushering a younger sibling behind her. Oddly enough, the girl looks familiar. Strange feelings of nostalgia impacted Aether. And what happened next freaked him out more.

"This is my younger sister, Sara."

The young teen with hazelnut hair shyly gives him a plate of chicken-skewer, freshly cooked. "Here mister, I cooked it myself. Do you like it?"

No, it couldn't be. "Why thanks, I admit I was starving." No breakfast aside, he was freaking out. It should be a coincidence, Sara was a name that would've been common around these parts. But the lingering smell of the chicken-skewer really unbalanced his thoughts.

On instinct, he replies, "This is good! You might become a successful chief in the future."

The girl's red eyes brightened when she heard that, "Really?! You would think so? Thank you, mister!"

If that wasn't enough to derail his belief, poor Aether was caught off guard when Sara crashed into him and hugged tightly. Though, realizing her mistake, she gasped and quickly fled the scene. Her friends and the crowd of girls in tow, shrieking in delight as they followed the embarrassed girl. Her sister sighed. Josephine blushed and apologized, "Thank you for encouraging her. My apologies, sir!"

She, too, took off. Fleeing the scene of a flustered and malfunctioning Aether, numbingly holding his skewer, and with a dumb look on his face. Not that there was anything wrong with girls being attracted to him, but he never garnered any attention from that many females at once.

The merchant, witnessing the entertainment before his eyes, laughed off his ass. The prick was holding stomach as his laughter howled throughout the market. Aether sighed, and silently consumed his food. Might as well eat it. Sara worked hard for that.

"I knew there was something special about you!"

"What do you mean?" Aether grunted, chewing hard on the skewer.

"I know you were lookin' for me yesterday. Karl told me that a man tried to find my wares."

True. Whilst purchasing the sword, and trading stuff yesterday, he heard of a well-off craftsman. Gunther Vorsiti, a talented cloth maker and part-time alchemist based his works around enchanted clothes. Aether heard of such a character, and planned to order a set of new clothes. He had heard the merchant also knew a few talented blacksmiths to help him craft parts of the outfit that requires certain finesse. Though seeing the prick enjoying his amusement at Aether's expense made him think twice.

"I wish to file an order."

Gunther perked his brow, "Oh, of what variety?"

Aether cautiously looked sideways, "The delicate kind, unfortunately."

"Is that so?" the man narrowed his eyes. Re-evaluating his prior assessment of the lad. And with good reason as well. The life-style of a bounty hunter was never really prestigious. "Should I be worried?"

Aether smiles considerately, "Not of that kind, but a much more hazardous occupation."

The merchant relaxed his posture, as having an order from an Adventurer was never new. Just rare, since the majority of those adventurers would rather wear those ridiculous uniforms. Gunther would never have thought an order like that from a young man like Aether would have such a job as dangerous.

"Customs are expensive, but as long as you have the materials the price would be more fair."

Aether gave the merchant a weirdly amused smile as he pulled out a silk flower and several crystals out of his rucksack. Confusion and wonder filled his eyes, as Gunther gathered the materials together. With such resources, one might wonder what the lad has in plans.

"Very well, it might take a while," chuckled Gunther. "But it still would cost you."

"No matter," replied Aether, as he handed a pouch of Mora. "This is just an advance payment, the rest I will give when the order is complete."

He had Mona taught Aether of such professions, as they were especially common around Fontaine. People of the magecraft variety, where the knowledge of crafting materials and enchanting them. Crystals were the common catalyst for fusing magical or elemental energies in an item, making them more sharper or durable beyond relief. Silkflower would easily conduct elemental resonance in clothing, but glaze lilies of Liyue were much more valuable when Geo is the element of the wearer.

For now, he would rest easy with the new clothing he would receive. Sure, his old outfit was nothing to scoff at, but it can't be upgraded or outfitted with more gadgets. Aether would gain considerable advantage when having an outfit that would blend him with the locals of this world.

One reason for the goddess knowing where the 'Traveler' was at times was because of his foreign looks and choice of outfit. But when traveling, this time Aether would make sure to cover his tracks. If the forces who were collaborating with the goddess prior caught a whiff of his actions anywhere, his incognito would go down in flames. His movements would be tracked and anticipated. Just as how they anticipated the attack on the fortress.

And worse, if the followers would tell the goddess in general. She was the God of Time, she would know something suspicious was abound. Aether would rather not have the trouble.

"This might take a day or two, I still must converse with a friend of mine at Mondstadt," Gunther nodded, he took out a sheet of paper and handed it to him. Aether took the sheet with a curious look on his face. "Ya gonna have to design the outfit by yourself, kid."

Huh, now that he thought of it, he had a picture of Klee's drawing of him. Sure, it was a "cooler" version of him. A white knight that saves the people, and protects the innocents of the land. It may have sounded silly to him back then, but when she too passed away during Mondstadt's fall, that drawing was everything to him. A memoir of a dear friend he treated as a little sister.

Letting the sheet of paper down, he reached for an inner pocket inside of his outfit, and pulled out a rough-looking drawing of himself. The merchant did not say anything, but the impressed look on his face says it all. Aether left the rest to him, and fled. Briefly, tears were shed, and an aching heart willed itself steady.

Never again. A vow and promise made, indeed.

---

Mora wasn't a problem by a long stretch, Aether still has plenty to spare. But if he really wants to make sure Teyvat has a future to live for, he must invest what Mora he has to make sure future investments would be in Aether's advantage. Ningguang painstakingly taught him various ways to make Mora appear out of nowhere. Being her bodyguard for a while didn't sound so bad.

With the cash Aether has on hand should be saved when he invests in the business of Liyue. His new outfit would be complete soon, and to pay the dues, Aether accepted a few commissions. Fortunately, you do not to be an official adventurer to accept a few commissions, just a few limitations of how many, and being barred from the more profitable ones. Still, having to invest his Mora half into the purchase would be a bad deal. Gonna have to save money.

It was already lunch-time, and having a Cryo Slime commission was simple enough. Not enough to pay the rest, but enough to earn more. The blazing heat of the midday sun seems to make the final slime melt. Or was it nervous? Monsters have the greatest instincts, and any slime could tell how powerful their opponent was.

No wonder why when Aether appeared the slimes tried to make a run for it. Even the bigger ones. But considering what's at stake, he wouldn't be able to let them go. Aether had to resist squirming when the final slime gave an unholy shriek. It only made him think twice about committing the deed.

Luckily, the commission for getting rid of the slimes were only south of Springvale, where a lake was situated. Completing the commission did not fully exhaust him, but having a breather after battle and calming the adrenaline was sound advice. Aether couldn't recount the amount of times Barbara would berate him for his impatient and rash actions before and after a fight. So having to rest, even for a moment, would do some good. Plus, he must calm his emotions.

Beating those slimes took Aether's thoughts of a certain friend away during the rush of battle, but the lingering pain of his soul still exists. Having a calm mind would help him reassert his thoughts.

And so Aether summoned the power of Anemo and conjured a gale of wind beneath him, the roaring winds lifted him up, and with the use of his glider he slowly flew and glided towards the small island. The glider belonged to Amber, the same one she gave when he first awoke to this world. The aging materials were still strong, and surprisingly durable. It was his lucky charm, saved him from a few cliff incidents at Liyue, and even managed to save a friend once. Bennett really has the world against him, but somehow that didn't curb his enthusiasm one bit.

Still, the glider was one of Aether's most treasured possessions, along with a few from his friends. Kaeya's spare eyepatch, he still doesn't know what to do with it. A purple rose, one that never wilts and one that only grows in the edge of the abyss was Lisa's most treasured item, and weirdly was a gift from Diluc of all people. He picked it off during his self-exile, and gifted the new member of the knights with it when he arrived. Curious. The grimoire was what remains of Lisa's final stand during the attack on Sumeru.

And many countless more, all safely tucked into his personal 'vault.' Another unique ability between him and his sister. A hidden storage inside his soul. He could store thousands of weapons, and he wouldn't even feel a single weight of it. Sometimes Aether would joke to his friends that he has a 'secret trash dump.' How convenient.

Summoning a piece of apple and taking a bite, he settled quite nicely on another Teleport Point. Watching as the gentle winds picked up, and countless dandelions effortlessly flew into the air. Like a sea of dust, hundreds of thousands of dandelions formed a cloud, and even brought a shadow to where Aether was sitting.

Awed by such a simple spectacle, Aether couldn't believe he missed chances like this. He was focused on his mission to find his sister, and wholly committed to complete that goal no matter what. He is only afraid it might repeat again, the cycle of his duty. Only before he was quite unaware of such heinous acts of the goddess, Aether was a mere tool to her conquest.

Not this time, Aether will not win the battle, but finish this war. A sick amusement from the goddess. A sudden change of wind managed to blow away the gathered dandelions, but such a view was missed. Aether was having a swirl of emotions, sadness, anger, longing, and the call for a peaceful life.

A life that Aether thinks he doesn't deserve, but one he will make it true. For his friends, and sister. For the world his family resides in. And the future he will craft to his image. At least for the people who care, the world will be a peaceful existence.

The wind, satisfied, settled into a quiet gale. Fully unaware of the battle taking place on a soul, battered and broken. But never unyielding to the march of time.

---

The strength of will comes from the heart. Powered by the soul, sustained by the body.

A well-known excerpt from the church's plentiful advice, as Barbatos the God of Freedom, would freely give out to those aching souls. Lost sheep were a-plenty, and with a world full of strife and suffering, the call for a symbol that guides them is naturally given out. People who seek such answers are people who are expecting to be lied to, demanding to give out falsehoods. At least to give comforting words to those who are suffering, inside out.

Genevra truly believes Barbatos exists, but where the fuck was he? A strong soul, and a brave heart. She was the representation of that mantra, a true believer in every sense. But what strength from the soul was anybody talking about? Her once strong frail body was nearing its end, and no power in this world could do such a thing to stop it.

She tried to comfort her beloved husband, that a person's time would come eventually. Her son, bless his gentle soul, would not accept such a fact like that. His young, naive, but bright mind would do everything and anything to save his ailing mother. But what can mortals do but pray to those with higher power.

Genevra was a great adventurer once, and when she met her doofus of a husband, she couldn't resist the temptation to help him. To help a man in his darkest moments, and sooth his aching pain. And in a blink of an eye, Genevra went from having an accomplished adventuring career, to a beloved and dear housewife. And when her light and beacon of joy was born, she did not hesitate to become one.

Having a rich husband really helps. When her son was born, he was frail and small. It worried both Genevra and her husband to no end, but a miracle was made, and the gods answered their desperate prayers. Their son was frail, yes, but when he grew into a fine child of strength and dexterity like his mother, with a sharp mind of his father, everything was set to the life of Genevra.

But it seems fate tested their will again, and the day of heartache and pain arrived. It was like any normal day, aiding the young head maid in their chores, managing the household with her husband gone, and looking out for her child. Then it struck, like unseen lightning, quick and vicious. Pain struck fearlessly into her body, as she tumbled down from the stairs. Genevra couldn't really feel what was happening, nor barely heard a horrified shriek and the desperate call for help.

Being in comatose for a week was not a good feeling, your bones felt stiff, and the muscles were burning in pain. The moment when she opened her eyes, blinded by the inconceivable brightness of her room, and the sensation of being like a brick, was a shitty feeling indeed.

But the loving eyes of her lover, and the worried but happy look from her baby boy was enough to rejuvenate herself. But the lack of energy and strength was foreign to her. Genevra once wielded a greatsword equivalent to those at the knights of Favonius, and to have trouble lifting a basket of mushrooms was a marathon for her.

Her husband wanted to look after her, but understood her stubborn nature best. So having someone to look after her and help her was a sound solution to the problem. It was, until Genevra grew frustrated from the delicate care she received. The pitying looks she was given managed to boil her temper, and she can't even say anything about that without having the trouble of even whispering a single word.

It was a mere year ago since the incident, but her life, now fragile as glass, was now frustrating and damning. Genevra lived for the adventure, the thrill of discovery. Not a quiet life of mundane activities. At the very least her boy understands, having to take long walks around the property, and pretending to have an adventure. She really appreciates that considerate side of her son.

And now, she was here in the middle of nowhere in the forest. She escaped for a quick walk without help, to find some mushrooms. Alone without help, she curses her damn sickness. Without such a frail body Genevra would have completed this task in less than fifteen minutes, whilst having to fight slimes for fun.

And now, the slimes surround her. She didn't even bring a weapon, because she couldn't even lift a basket full of mushrooms without having to carry a small rock with her. Genevra doubts she could even lift a sword, let alone swing one. Having this frustrating predicament, she tried to make a run for it, only having to trip on a root at the last second. What terrible luck.

Damn. Is this the end?

Not that she was expecting it any sooner. But having to be slain by slimes of all things really broke the last vestiges of her pride. And as a Cryo Slime approached her and unleashed a cold torrent of ice, she felt the last of her strength leaving her. And the darkness seems to consume her. The final thing she heard was a shout of defiance, so strong that it made her heart tremble at every syllable. As the winds of Barbatos carried her soul, and a flash of gold struck like an unrelenting gale towards figures of cold blobs. She felt lighter than ever. And a dreamless sleep followed.

---

Gunther sighed as he entered his home, and dropped his leather backpack at the door frame as he felt that work was calling for him. As it always does. Nighttime was his workshop hours, and the afternoon spent on selling his wares. Anything else might be for argument. Home or work.

Home was a cozy place, as the living room has a sofa and carpet with a fireplace for the winter season. The kitchen, merely a few feet away from the sofa, is humble and simple for easy meals. He was never much of a picky eater. And the bedroom upstairs has a single bed and wardrobe. A small home, fit for a man like him. His workshop on the other hand...

Work is dull and tedious, but Gunther loves it that way. It was a single massive room, right next to the living room, as big as the entire house itself. Perfect place to set up his tools and workbench. Gunther has an abundant amount of materials and resources for him to use just in case any customer wouldn't be able to acquire them. Good, more profits for him then.

Majority of the ores were shipped in from Liyue, white iron, noctilucous jade, and magical crystals galore! If any of his services were to halt for a while, he can just sell these off to a buyer somewhere. As any good businessman would always be prepared for anything.

Being a businessman would be second priority, though. As being a practitioner of the art of Alchemy would be first and foremost to his worries.

Now settled in for a while, Gunther prepped the items that the kid had acquired for his order. One silk flower, and several crystals. Enough for a coat, and multiple pieces of armor. Opening his workshop, he sat down on his bench, pulled out a piece of paper and strapped it to a wall near his seat. The intricate drawings were fascinating to him. Sure, Gunther had seen much better art, but it wasn't the flawlessness of how it was drawn that caught his eye. No, it was the way of how accurate the details were to him.

To whomever had drawn this must've been a good artist with a sense of creativity. The first thought to mind was the weird kid, but considering how he had acted, it must be from a close friend of his. No matter, Gunther Vorsiti, the most experienced and talented enchanting craftsman of Mondstadt would bring this vision to life!

"All I gotta do is seam, cut, and shape the cloth," hummed Gunther. "The metalwork work would come next, but I shall leave that for Wagner to do."

He shall contact him tomorrow morning, as Gunther knows the blacksmith would rather sleep than work at night. For now, he must craft the perfect outfit and enchant it. Knowing it would take several hours for it to be complete, he ordered food to be delivered at his door later rather than cook for himself. The craft comes as a priority.

And after the blacksmith was done, infuse the crystals to the armor pieces, and begin placing magical properties to the item. More durability, much lighter in weight, and ease of maintenance would do. Basic enchantments like those will do the charm. Any adventurer would need such a powerful advantage, in battle or exploration. Maybe adding the hydro-anemo enchantment on the cloth to prevent any liquids to harm the wearer and make it waterproof, that would be simple enough. Tough as geo, light as anemo. A good motto for himself.

Scribbling down notes he mutters, "What about the gauntlets?"

Was the kid a user of any elements? He didn't wear any Vision as far as Gunther could tell with the cloak he was wearing. It would seem not, but maybe leaving that for future reference and a blank spot for any other future enhancements.

The scarf wouldn't carry any hard-hitting upgrades, merely sharing the same enchantments with the clothes. Gunther would rather busy himself with the symbols drawn in the picture. Anemo? Pyro? Curious. It would intrigue him as to why would a person wield two elements? The clover symbol was there, but was to be carved for the coat. Along with a rose on the upper chest, and a strange symbol.

Three triangles intertwining at each other.

Gunther had never before seen a symbol like this before. And he had been through many places. He grew up in Mondstadt, sure, but studied abroad at Fontaine, and even started his career at Sneznhaya. In all his life, Gunther had never seen or witnessed something as bizarre as that symbol. It must be from another nation, probably from Khaen'riah or beyond the continent. The world is a big place after all.

The kid must've been a foreigner. Lavender eyes narrowed at that thought. Not that foreigners weren't welcome, the Fatui was happily greeted and welcomed at Mondstadt. Being diplomats from a far away nation of the north, and only having peaceful interactions with the ruling body. Liyue, being the closest nation, has close relations with the people of Mondstadt. People in these parts were welcoming and had a great sense of hospitality.

But that did not stop some people, as small dissents rampaged across the nation. Small and unnoticeable, being dealt by the Knights of Favonius. But Gunther knew better. Those 'diplomats' would soon demand consent from the government, and slowly begin converting beliefs of the people of Mondstadt into their way of thinking. Making it look like having the freedom to choose. It never was. And so, some people never liked any foreign hand or voice. Especially the old families.

The feeling of doubt lingered on, the kid never had any resemblance to either Sneznhaya or Khaen'riah. He would know, he studied the different arts of alchemy on both nations, but the kid only requested his type of craft, a more simple yet effective style of Alchemy from Fontaine.

"As if I could create life," he scoffed. Numerous rumors of Khaen'riah style of Alchemy are both worrying and fascinating. To create life at its peak by merely converting chalk? Talk about scary.

Gunther would never have believed such things, if he had not witnessed it himself. A wandering figure from across the Dark Sea, an 'alchemist' by the name of Gold made waves across the alchemy communities. By normal standards of practice, you can call Gold a well-learned practitioner, if not for the knowledge they carry. But many things uttered by Gold were either convoluted or nonsense. But he knew that they had made sense somehow. Maybe one day, if he can, Gunther would sail beyond the continent of Teyvat.

"How long the journey would be, I wonder," wishful thinking on his part, but Gunther wanted to know. That life and the world has a deeper meaning of itself.

"Never mind," he shook himself, and concentrated on his work. The cloth needed to be fused by the silk flower, and threading the coat to its shape might take a while. Another long all-nighter it would seem.

Still, the infinite knowledge gained, and the limitless opportunities to have is enough of an incentive. Alchemy has no boundaries, but at what line does it cross? And if it comes to that, will Gunther dare cross it? Hope not, Gunther still has plenty to live for here in Mondstadt. Friends to have, and profits to make. But the question still lingers.

"I wonder what secrets I might encounter?"

Or horrors to be uncovered.

---

The warmth of the flames gave little comfort to Aether. He has been there before, at Dragonspine and Sneznhaya. Freezing was a sensation familiar to him, as to his comrades as well when he ventured towards Dragonspine. Aether's vitality and strength was a major factor in helping him survive such an environment. The company of friends didn't hurt either.

But as of right now, he couldn't say the same for the woman before him. Laying down at the ground, near an abandoned camp's fireplace. Complete with a pot. Aether, without his Pyro element, lit up the fireplace the old fashioned way. Barely clinging to her life, the frail woman shuddered, and an unnoticeable whisper uttered from her cold lips. Inaudible to Aether, he knelt closer to her face.

The woman's face was sharp, and her frame was quite tall. Her outfit was a simple brownish long skirt with white long-sleeves. It may have looked cheap to folks without experience, but to Aether it seems expensive as heck. What immediately caught Aether's attention was her long wild hair reaching her waist.

Red as pure flames.

Shaking off the curiosity, Aether went back to work. Opening his rucksack and pulling out a pair of vials. One of Sucrose's concoctions, and the other from Aether's own creation. A blue vial meant to heal someone's injuries, but also increase a weak person's dexterity. Noticing how frail the poor woman was, Aether wouldn't be able to save her life. He needed her to be physically strong. Luckily, one of Sucrose's geniuses showed during a bleak moment of his life.

Poison anguished Razor's body, drying up his muscles and making his bones brittle as limestone. One of the Pillar's gifts towards Aether when the former Harbinger, Sandrone 'the Puppet,' went and tried to retrieve the ancient greatsword Wolf's Bane. Andrius was critically injured in the battle, and Razor almost lost his life.

Bedridden for two months, Razor's strength withered away. Piece by piece. And Aether would've witnessed a friend's slow and agonizing death if not for Sucrose's latest invention.

The Vytal Potion.

Formed from one of Sucrose's own experimental Sweet Flower, and mixed with fresh Wolfhooks and Violetgrass. One was common around the Wolvendom, the other rare and exquisite. Fortunately, Qiqi was with Aether when the Razor dilemma abounded. Her help and knowledge for the uncommon plant benefited greatly in Sucrose's research and development for the Vytal Potion.

The Ultimate Medication, able to cure the most deadly diseases that would ail the mortal bodies of man. And Aether has the ingredients and knowledge passed unto him when he left Mondstadt to ask for the Pyro Archon's aid.

Luckily, he doesn't need to find any ingredients for now, as he has at the very least a dozen vials of Vytal Potion, ready for him to use at any given moment. It was fundamentally different from the one he consumed from his battle with the goddess. As it only heals injuries at a rapid pace and revitalizes the consumer's adrenaline. Fit for battle, and emergency situations.

The other red vial was of Aether's own creation, a potion that abolishes Cryo from a person's body by force and give internal heating to immediately warm up at certain points of travel. He learned his mistakes when Bennett had fainted up on Dragonspine, and would rather not experience that type of cruel comedy again. And he thought Qiqi wouldn't freeze like the rest as being a zombie was different. Aether had underestimated the cold for far too long.

Popping off the lid of the red vial, he gently opened the woman's mouth and let her drink every bit of sip. The effect was immediate, as the woman's veins glowed red. The shivering of her body finally halted, but the danger was still present. Never had Aether thought he would witness this again. Sure, the circumstances were different, but the problem still lay the same.

People were dying in front of him, and he couldn't do jack shit. But after years of enduring the hardship it may seem that Aether's path to fix the future was bright. It would start with this woman right here. He would save her life, and then his friends and family. The rest of the world would be next.

Coughing from the woman knocked Aether out of his thoughts, and he proceeded to pull out the Vytal Potion next. Only one sip is enough of a dosage to make the bones stronger than steel and muscles much more vibrant. Razor was a happy lad when he finally stopped being a bedridden puppy. Sucrose would still blush as if to remember that our resident Lupical 'kissed' her cheek. Licking her like a wild dog would be a more appropriate term. Albedo would always remind her of their fond memories when he was in the mood.

The campfire roared in silent praise as the last sip of the vial dropped on the woman's lips, and the setting sun shined upon Aether's form. The woman's eyes snapped open with a gasp. They were like burning flames, and oh so familiar to him. Wild and frantic, and the pupils were dilated so much they practically swallowed everything else.

She lurched up - or tried to - but was too weak and fell back. Her hands grasped his wrists, but they were weak, too weak. Her hands fell of their own accord, but he caught one and cradled it firmly.

It was clear she still believed herself in danger. The last thing she had seen was a creature trying to kill her and she thought he was going to finish the job.

She wanted to live. Good. That desire to keep on fighting meant more than anything else. Even so, he couldn't have her fighting against him so he held her hands in his.

"It's okay," he said, and her eyes searched frantically for him. It looked like she couldn't see, but he doubted she was blind. Just exhausted and winded after however many hours unconscious. "Can you hear me?" he asked.

"Y-Yes…?" Her voice was timid, or just so brittle it sounded that way. "W-Where…" she faltered, unable to finish the rest.

"You're safe," he said. "I've got you."

To Genevra, it would seem that Barbatos sent an angel to take her away, and that her time has finally arrived. But that sweet, calm voice says otherwise, "It would be okay, everything will be alright, and you'll see your family again."

Those words uttered would carry her spirit for the rest of her life. The image of her blond, and golden eyed savior would be forever materialized into her thoughts.

"Yes. You're going to live. Sleep. You need your strength. You will see another day."

Sleep was the last thing she wanted, he could tell, but her body needed it and she couldn't fight against it no matter how hard she tried. Her eyelids become heavy and despite trying to blink them. "You promise?" she slurred, and it took him a second to realise what she meant.

"I promise you'll wake up again. You're past the worst of it now."

The woman nodded and slipped off less than five seconds later. This time, however, her chest rose and fell evenly, and her skin had regained some colour, even if it was still pale.

Aether felt proud of that promise, and this time he felt assurance to his own words. The empty words he promised to his friends as he walked forward to where he was now, their bodies littered the path where he treads still haunts him...

"You'll get a proper burial. I promise."

"I'll bury you, too."

There were going to be so many graves. Was he going to have to dig them all?

He'd promised them a better world. A good ending. A grand finale.

"Please wake up. Please. Someone... anyone..."

"For Mondstadt, as always."

An oath, and a solemn vow to protect not just Mondstadt but the world itself.

"Hehe, just save a meal for me won't you...?"

I promise.

It would not haunt him any more. This time, the path he shall walk was the right way. But the road to redemption was never easy, the future might become bleak once more and the foes he has to face would not hesitate to do so again. Not on his watch, as the sacrifices of his friends and the suffering endured would be enough. Aether will face his demons and fight the world itself if he has to. He will bite, scratch and roar his way to victory if he must.

The future will be bright, and Aether shall carry that burden. And the words uttered shall be his power.

"The Dawn shall rise, I promise."

The wind's gentle hum greeted Aether's face, as determined eyes gaze to the fading sun, and the horizon never seemed so bright. For he knows, tomorrow the light will come.

---

Crepus frowned as another paper that was signed went to the pile. He was distracted. Not that any would blame him, not his son, never the staff, and especially not his beloved wife. It was only yesterday evening a woman was dropped to the manor's metaphorical door.

His staff was panicking throughout the entire afternoon, and he arrived to see his strong-willed son, Diluc, crying his eyes out. Fortunately, young Kaeya gave comfort to the boy. Assuring his adopted brother that everything was okay. When Crepus adopted the poor lad, he worried that he and his son wouldn't get along. But to his, and everyone's surprise, they did not only become friends, but immediate brothers as well.

He trusts Kaeya to look after his troublesome son, as much as he loves Diluc, the boy's drive for adventure and action came from his mother. He would grow restless when there was little to do. But Crepus' ward does a great job looking after him. Not only did Kaeya was much more mature and situated about the world than Diluc was, but knowledgeable and steadfast as well. If there was any trouble, he has no doubt that Kaeya can look after his son.

But the matter on hand was worrying as well, as his stubborn wife was missing. Hearing the news from Adelinde was heartbreaking. The poor girl wanted to ask for advice from his wife, but the lack of her presence when realized caused panic across the Winery. Every household member went out searching the nearest woods, from the veteran employees to the newest members. Diluc was fortunately forbidden to look after his mother, as the head maid argued with him. Kaeya alongside her agreed as well. It was too dangerous, and Adelinde was afraid to lose her charge as well.

Maybe he should compensate the poor maid for a vacation somewhere. Damn it if she was still recently hired, the poor lass went and argued with the future lord of the Ragnvindr family. It takes some serious guts to do so. Good thing he arrived to remedy the situation before things escalated. Young Kaeya was there, holding back his son from doing something he might regret. Tears were in her eyes as she tried to reason his stubborn son. Not that it would work. Diluc was still locked in his room until the news came in.

Both Kaeya and Adelinde really deserve something. The situation was really out of hand.

When the sun finally set across the horizon, he was ready to call the Knights for help. The horses in the stable were ready and waiting until a young lass and an experienced worker, David, came rushing towards him. Crepus would always joke of how seeing his wife in another man's arms would make him cry, but he never thought he would cry with joy. As Genevra was being carried, safely, from David's arms Crepus would have thought that his beloved wife would perish with his touch.

But curiously, it did not.

As they dropped her safely to his bed, both young Kaeya and his son heard the commotion, to see what was happening he left the confines of his rooms. Ever since Diluc heard that his mother would eventually die from an unknown disease, he cried so much. Even Kaeya gave a heartfelt sob as his wife, Lady Genevra Ragnvindr, was safe and sound at last.

The next morning, he called for a priestess from the church of Favonius to check the health of his wife. She awoke from the early hours of dawn, sitting up from her bed only to walk instinctively towards the kitchen, and started to cook for herself. When the staff and cooks went and did their morning duties, the sight of the once frail Lady of the manor baffled their beliefs. She was merely minding her own business without a care in the world. Cooking an early breakfast, preparing the meal, and eating it without any help. Then if that wasn't enough, Genevra went and washed her own dishes and left the bewildered staff before they could utter a single word.

And when Crepus awoke from his slumber at his own office, he heard a commotion outside. The brightness of his window did not help to uncover as to why there was a noise, but decided to investigate it himself. He still thought he was asleep and dreaming when young Kaeya greeted him a nonchalant 'good-morning' while witnessing his son, sweating off the curves of his dress as Diluc fueled his mother in a spar. Safe to say, his beloved wife was winning. And dominating. Not since the final days of her adventuring career did Crepus witness her move so fast and flexible like that. Especially when she was diagnosed by the sickness that took her strength away.

"Finally out of that office of yours, Crepus?" grinned Genevra, her sharp yet playful smile felt so emotional. It struck him how he missed that smile.

Blinking like a love-struck fool, Kaeya had to nudge his knees to knock him out of his stupor, and the plaguing thoughts that ran throughout his mind. He wishes to say something, utter a word, or even whisper out his disbelief. But no, the bright and wide smile of his son, the teasing look on Kaeya's face, and the worried glance from his wife really did not help gather his thoughts properly. If Crepus was still a young lad, he would've been embarrassed to utter such words. But time and experience really caught him this time. He felt tired, relieved, and worried at that moment.

His emotions rampant, he replies, "Yes, and now I am going back to bed."

The reality of the situation really hasn't kicked in. Not until he leaped back at the soft mattress of his bed.

"Shit."

Indeed, and when he had the energy, he went and called Adelinde to prepare him breakfast, and marched straight back to his office. To write a letter to a priestess, and a doctor, to help him make sense of this dilemma. Crepus wishes to consult his sanity, and the health of his wife. Two birds, one stone. The stone to hit his head with, and a pair of sweet madame to numb the pain and satisfy his hunger. Fortunately, Adelinde couldn't find a rock. Or wouldn't. He wasn't so sure anymore.

"To think this was happening during the festival," he had to suppress a sigh as he knows how busy his schedule is when Mondstadt is at a celebrating phase. The massive and copious amount of wine needed to satisfy the thirst of the people was an unbearable job. Especially when the majority of the people are light drunkards. It was tradition to drink, at any occasion, or any reason really. He sometimes wondered if Mondstadt wasn't only good at making wines.

A knock from his office door told him that he had a guest, and the soft voice of Adelinde was enough of an indicator. Two people entered his room.

One priestess as he had expected, and a well-known doctor.

Sister Aria, from the church of Favonius has vibrant green hair, and the nun outfit commonly worn by the church managed to modestly fit well to her frame. Her burning red eyes would sometimes scare some folks, but after hearing her soft melodies at the church, one wouldn't be so dissuaded from believing her innocent and likeable charm. One of the few not corrupted by the Church's fading and desperate influence.

Dr. Richard Hart was an alchemist and local doctor of Mondstadt. Went to study at Liyue, and made a name for himself. Most doctors would be old, fat knobs, as generally imagined by so many. But the broad-shouldered man before Crepus would convince anyone otherwise. Fortunately, his kind brown eyes go well with his chestnut hair, and his humble spectacles made a perfect contradiction to the man's small and shy smile.

"Lord Ragnvindr, I have arrived as per your instructions. The church was rather curious as to why you were very specific to your request for a nun."

Aria had said that with a serious face, but the twinkling amusement in her eyes says otherwise. He and Aria fully know of how the state of the church has been in recent decades. Nothing but two-faced con artists under the guise of Barbatos' loyal servants. Varka was right, the church was full of shit.

"Yes, of course," replied Crepus. "Apologies for the sudden summon, but your services would do well in my current predicament."

"Pray tell, what seems to be the matter?" Richard's eyebrows perked. "The only reason there would be is that the health of your wife got worse? It shouldn't be. The symptoms won't affect her apart from being highly exhausted all the time."

The priestess was curious as well, as she was there before when Lady Genevra felt ill. The church did everything, those competent ones anyway, but nothing to help the frail woman came up. Doctors like Richard and many others worked together to fix the ailing situation of his wife, and yet nothing of a solid conclusion arrived. None could ever do anything about that at the time. There was nothing to help his wife.

She, of course, reasoned with him that if death were to come for her, at the very least he was there to look after their child. That did not amuse, nor calm him, not one bit.

"Let me start at the beginning, at the very least to catch you up on the situation."

Not being able to suppress his tired sigh, he went on about the strange occurrence of the morning. The shocked and bewildered looks given was understandable, but amazement as well? Genevra has a lot of explaining to do...

---

Diluc always wondered what would happen to him if he lost his loved ones. And it scared him so, as living with his family was the majority of his life would suddenly end.

Kaeya was there, he was sure. His brother was tough, smart, and knows more of the world than he did. Diluc wasn't dumb. He knows how greedy and insolent those lots are, but there are a few gems along the bunch. Kaeya assured him so. And he was right. Diluc had met plenty of people in his young life. Both young and old. Naive and wise. And he learned plenty of things from their wisdom, knowledge, and overall how they live their lives.

Just like how father taught him numbers and political techniques that would easily escape another twelve year old's mind, but not his. Somehow, Diluc has talents in numbers, and he can easily read a person's emotions. Vying them for what they wish and what they truly want. His mother trained and instructed him on how to wield a blade when he was nine, his father was worried though. But that worry changed into awe of how quickly Diluc mastered the sword at a young age.

His mother was proud of him, and so did his father. And Diluc would not hide such facts to other people, as the pride and joy of the Ragnvindr family.

And when Kaeya went into the picture, the world of which Diluc sees shattered before his eyes. The starving and injured child was quickly brought up into the mansion when his father returned to a business trip in Liyue. He was excited when he heard the great Outrider, Sir Ignacio Brightburn, accompanied Crepus when returning home. That excitement turned into horror when finding a bleeding and sick child in his father's cold and wet hands.

It was a rainy day at the manor. Diluc barely turned eleven only to witness such a sight. And when his recently ailing mother quickly descended from the stairs, only to see a hurt child, did Diluc start to understand the world where he lives in. Not only in numbers or contracts were exchanged between people, but violence and death as well. And it hurt him to understand so late into his life.

He did his best to welcome the newest addition to their family. Since Crepus was very adamant to take him in, and his mother was more than willing to help raise another child even with her current predicament. Genevra knows how Diluc wishes to have a sibling, but was unable to provide him so. With her withering strength, and severe sickness, having another child to be raised with Diluc was a solution that was heavily welcomed.

Kaeya was so scared and unsure when the poor child regained his consciousness. Alone in this foreign land, with strangers who are sickeningly nice to him, and having the opportunity to live with said strangers really put him off. But after calming words by Crepus and sweet but serious assurances by Genevra, Kaeya listened intently. But Diluc's shy yet strong greetings melted any resistance to Kaeya's doubts. It still took months until his brother felt right at home, but for Diluc, it was the best days of his life! All the adventures that they would partake in, and the new things that he experienced with Kaeya was so memorable.

"What's with that dumb look of yours, brat?"

And for some reason, Kaeya well and truly believes that he is much older then Diluc. Such blasphemy! He would do well to remind his brother who was the older one. But at that point, Diluc could only sigh in response. This morning was exhausting already, and with Kaeya's daily bickering did not help him.

"For the last time, Kaeya, I was the eldest child in the family!" replied Diluc, giving such hot arguments against the other child. Kaeya just looks amused.

"Yeah, you were."

Diluc couldn't give out a steady retort except, "Hey!"

Both brothers laughed as they observed the fish in the small lake south of the winery. It was not far from home, but was distant enough to give a moment of solitude to anyone. He and Kaeya would come here once a while. To just gaze at the tall cliffs bordering Liyue. Wondering what untold treasures and adventures await. Maybe when they're older, he and his brother would venture forth into the unknown.

"Still, the debacle yesterday was a rush, huh?" Kaeya's non-bandaged eye gaze back at Diluc's.

Usually the gaze would give out discomfort, but the look of assurance on his brother's face was enough for Diluc to spill.

"I'm scared."

That simple statement alone could arouse laughter from Kaeya, but right now he could do nothing but pity the boy. He was scared too. Lady Genevra not only went missing, but collapsed at the edge of the winery. Not since that fateful night of storms and rain did it remind him that the world was a cruel place. She could have died out there, alone and afraid. No matter how brave she was, she was still human in the end. And Kaeya can relate.

"That's normal, I would be worried for you if you just shrugged it off, but it seems you proved me wrong," replied Kaeya, this time giving his brother a kind smile. He felt great knowing that this time, he was the one to give comfort to Diluc not the other way around. "You cried like a newborn baby, though."

At that point, Kaeya could only laugh as Diluc gave him a pout. He calls it a 'glare' though. Not one to discourage his little brother's cuteness, he continued to tease him. He was worried for him, as Diluc went mad against the maid, Adelinde, and this time holding back his brother actually took effort. It scared him of how easy it was to trouble Diluc, especially when it concerned his family. The poor girl had to shout back just to give reasoning, and Kaeya fully knows that shouting is a sign of no reasoning at all. It was just desperation at play.

He shudders to imagine what Diluc would do if Lord Ragnvindr would perish. Kaeya wouldn't think he could hold his brother back, and wonders what he would lose in the process.

"At least the worst is over, and it seemed that Lady Genevra would be alright."

"Call her mother, Kaeya, and let me tell you how much she insisted that you do so."

Oh, he remembered that night a few months prior, it was a family dinner. Genevra suddenly called out to him, and when he responded with curt manners, she just scoffed, "Call me mommy, kid. I mean Diluc does it too."

Kaeya would cherish the moment his brother cried, "MOTHER!" As if scandalized beyond relief. Lord Ragnvindr couldn't contain his laughter, and Kaeya happily shared it with him. Genevra just rolled her eyes out, caring less of how his son 'grew up.' Such fond moments of happiness will keep Kaeya forever glad. No matter what, he'll treasure those fleeting moments.

"You know, you were quite rude towards Adelinde. She doesn't deserve those words you burderned her with." Kaeya knew the lecture their father gave when he arrived from the festival yesterday afternoon. But still, Diluc must learn to contain his emotions. For when the day comes, it would rather be handy.

"I know," sulked Diluc. He believes Adelinde only does her duties, not baring to find his mother. He felt bad about the words he dished out, and most of them were truly hurtful. Maybe when the time comes, he would profusely apologize and give her a gift. He did see her as a big sister, and they already got along well. Until he ruined it.

"I'll buy her some flowers, maybe that'll do the trick."

Kaeya couldn't help but tease, "Careful, you might want to rethink that. Who knows what she will think. Maybe she would think you were interested or something."

The look of horror was priceless on Diluc's face, Kaeya knew it was worth the trouble. Hey, maybe he will help his brother. Adelinde was kinda hot.

Kaeya smirked, already knowing the outcome of such a thing. The embarrassed looks, the laughing staff, and an amused Crepus. And maybe he shall call upon the help of Genevra, she might uplift the drama a little bit.

Before Diluc could retort, a servant from the household calls out, "Master Diluc, young Kaeya, Lord Ragnvindr wishes to speak with you."

"But why?" asks Diluc. "What's so urgent that he needs us?"

"I'm afraid it has to do with something of the Knights of Favonius at the door, Young Master. And it was not good news."

Diluc was still confused, but Kaeya noted the look on the servant's face. One of trepidation, and fear. He even notice the servant looking around the perimeter. The lake was safe, as there were houses near them, but what could make Lord Ragnvindr worried? And the knights of Favonius...

What could it mean?

---

It was late evening when Aether finally arrived from the fiasco of Springvale. He was planning to approach Diluc and ask for help concerning the woman, but decided against it. It was best that they would meet at certain terms, and he was not really gonna risk it. Knowing how suspicious it would look later on when he would ask help at the threat of Stormterror.

And so, he decided to just drop the woman at the edge of the winery, where he saw two workers looking for something. Or someone. Aether doesn't know if the woman was part of Diluc's servants, but decided to risk it. He never got her name, but he knows the woman would be fine. Her strength would return in time, and he felt great knowing he saved a life. He dropped her near the main road and called out to the workers. They did not see his face, fortunately, and left the premises when a big man carried her safely back to the manor.

He went ahead to Mondstadt and made a decision.

With enough cash, Aether decided to spend the night at Mondstadt. Gaining enough confidence to readily meet some familiar faces. Blacksmiths like Wagner and Schulz, shopkeepers like Marjorie and Blanche, and even the resident alchemist-student, Timaeus. He couldn't wait to order a drink from Angel's Share, especially when Charles is around. The guy's good company, and sweet nights spent at the bar were relaxing and a great place to unwind.

Katheryne is a friendly sight that Aether yearned. Her words of greetings were soft, yet invigorating, and always managed to always light up his drive for adventure. No wonder they assigned her as a receptionist, not just at Mondstadt, but everywhere else. A mystery that Aether hasn't uncovered yet. Maybe soon.

And his new set of armor may be ready tomorrow, and he wanted to see how the progress went. And this merchant-alchemist interests him, and if Aether would invest at the guy's business he would have another contact for the future.

"I wonder if Shiliu already arrived from Liyue," he wondered aloud, as Aether entered the gate of the city. She was really dependable when it comes to basic commerce, and her aid in his cause would benefit greatly. He was still not sure when she would show up, but her expertise and knowledge of the trade would help him start up his own enterprise. A food for thought later.

"Apologies for the obstruction young man, but may I have a word with you?"

A pair of unfamiliar knights approached Aether, tentative in their steps. Both knights were unknown to him, but that did not give Aether the right to be suspicious. The poor knight and his partner were just doing their duties, he knows how strict Jean can be with protocols at times, and he doesn't want to add more to their plate of problems.

"Alright good sirs, was there anything wrong?" he asked. He was not as attention grabbing as before, his brown cloak obscured his unusual outfit and made sure to hide his blade as well. It must be other matters that bothered them. If so, he was curious.

"I am sir Alfred, and this is sir George," Alfred gestured, both knights wielding a sword and spear respectively. "We wish to ask a few inquiries before you enter the city's perimeters."

Ah, a problem then. It surely must be Dvalin at work.

He had witnessed the damage to morale that a dragon can do. Dvalin wasn't exactly subtle at showing his displeasure, a lot of people panicked when Dvalin merely passed by, and Aether saw the terror in everybody's eyes. Even Amber was terrified when he showed up, and Aether couldn't blame her. None of them knew what to do before Venti came into the picture.

Inquiries? Interesting. It had seemed that the knights were active in dealing with the threat. But why hide it?

Aether felt rather nervous when he was being questioned. That never happened before, but Amber must've had to do something about that. She was an Outrider after all, her rank must've been higher than any other knights, with the exception of officers. And the inquiries might be from the Stormterror threat, and Aether was then more willing to help them.

Nodding his head, the knight, George asks, "Were you recently in the vicinity of Starsnatch cliff during the past few days?"

"Nope," replied Aether. "I was attending the Harvest Festival this morning, and the day before. And so far, I only reached the edge of the Dawn Winery and Falcon Coast this past week."

Barring from magically appearing at night in the north-eastern coast of Mondstadt, and waking up from a time-travel experience, everything else was true. But that inquiry alerted him, did Dvalin move already? Was he spotted at Starsnatch Cliff? Was the Order executing their plans early? Aether did nothing wrong to assert himself these few past days and already ruined the timeline. But the question still lingers; What had happened?

"I wish to ask as well as to why these inquiries were made, and did the Acting-Grandmaster approve of it?"

Aether knows that Jean's knights have well-meaning priorities, but she wasn't able to control them all. Even Grandmaster Varka had trouble asserting his will into the twelve-companies of the Ordo Favonius. It would take all twelve captains to agree on something before an action was made. Whether it was a good or bad idea that Varka took seven out of the twelve companies on his expedition, having a small trusted council of small company captains really made it easy for Jean to manage.

"Acting-Grandmaster? Never mind that. This jury is nothing to your concern, but we appreciate the honesty. A couple of Abyss Mages were sighted, nothing too troubling."

Abyss Mages? So there was something going on, and the knights were hiding the fact. And a 'couple' of Abyss Mages were a massive deal on its own. It would mean a massive united force of hilichurls were gathered. The same amount that Diluc had faced as the 'Dark Knight' hero of Mondstadt. It was fun.

"Did any threat was made to Mondstadt?" asked Aether. Golden eyes pierced dull blue, and both sides tense.

Something is wrong, frowned Aether. Those worried and inexperienced eyes said everything. He fought in a war heavily stacked against them, every battle a victory but at a price, and many souls were tortured by the experience. Aether chief among them.

He witnessed many worlds in his long life, but the battle for Teyvat was something else entirely. He fought as a child back then, experienced in battle, not in wars of attrition, intelligence, political power, and resources. Such problems were managed by people like Jean, Ningguang, and even La Signora. They were leaders, negotiators, and strategists in order. Him? Aether? He was merely a soldier. A fighter at the front lines. He never knew about strategy and tactics before, not until the battle of Windrise.

Hours were spent before the massive battle, on sabotaging enemy encampments, disrupting supply lines, and even causing small amounts of chaos and disorder within enemy ranks. Aether thought that was enough to defeat the enemy, but as naive as he was back then, no one could really blame him. When he returned from their mission, he saw that the enemy did the same tactics as well. Only much worse.

Senior officers were killed, poisoned by assassins, and many among the ranks were spies and traitors. Supplies that arrived were burnt and the water supply was tempered beyond belief. Stealing of plans and intelligence were just the tip of the iceberg. As they tried to assassinate the Grandmaster. Well, 'tried' was the keyword. They perished before they could even blink, and Varka was not a gentle man. Especially when you raid his camp, destroy his supplies, and kill his troops. Good thing Aether only witnessed the aftermath of that slaughter. He may have not been able to handle that.

And when the battle began, it was merely a start of countless days spent butchering one another in a field of emerald grass. It was the beginning of the war as well. The start of Aether's hardship in such a time. Death and destruction was common in everyday life. And it stuck to the people as well. Children were not allowed to play in the streets anymore, fearing that when an attack would come they would be the first ones to perish.

Aether knew hell, and these poor sods didn't know it.

They never had to witness men slaughter each other like wild dogs, not with pace or with order. It was every man for himself. And he chose his life, and condemned the many. Just to live another day, and to see his sister.

"If there is anything wrong, the people are willing to help," declared Aether. He got what he wanted, and decided not to trouble these knights anymore. The man, Alfred, nods his head. He knows the firm laws placed by Vanessa. If a fellow man is troubled, make an effort to ease their burdens together.

One of Jean's countless lessons unwillingly drilled into his head, but was thankful for it. As Zhongli said: "Any wisdom is priceless, no matter where it came from."

It would make both of them proud knowing Aether held these words with high regard. As such little memories of them were so precious to him.

"Of course, any proud citizen of Mondstadt is willing to do so," agreed George, as the man also studied the wisdom of many Grandmasters in his time. Including Vanessa's.

Alfred grunts, "I see, then on your way, good sir, the night is still young and I heard Bertram still has Angel's Share open. Please, feel free to enjoy yourself, this is the City of Freedom after all."

How could any folks at Mondstadt deny that statement? He decided not to argue, and continued to stroll forward. He finally enters the city proper and wonders what to do next? Maybe going to Angel's Share and renting a room for a night sounds like a good idea. He will spend the night for a quick drink, and settle down for tonight. Without looking behind him, he felt the two knights gave Aether strange looks, but ignored it. Let them be suspicious, because soon the Honorary Knight will rise once again.

Also, who the hell was Bertram?

And to be honest, Aether had it coming. He never knew there was another bartender at Angel's Share, apart from Charles and Diluc. This Bertram character before him must've left service because of Stormterror's harassment of the City. A solid conclusion. As Amber did declare that there were a lot of people in Mondstadt before Dvalin arrived.

Not all people were the faint of heart, if he had a family in the city he would immediately vacate to another region. He was anything but ordinary. And Aether helped Dvalin, and battled him as well. And this time, he would succeed without any complications.

Barging in at a busy hour at Angel's Share, he was greeted by burly man at the counter, and said burly man intensely stared at him. Was this Bertram? He's HUGE. Even taller than Diluc, and probably as big as Varka.

Maybe he was a soft-spoken individual, and you can't really judge a man's character based on their-

"The fuck do ya want, brat? If ya gonna loiter around, PISS OFF!"

-appearance alone...

Blinking in shock, Aether replies, "Well, I wonder if I could have-"

"Were ya a little deaf, son? Maybe this ought to make ya understand," retorted Bertram. The man gently dropped the glass he was wiping, and to Aether's point of view, the guy just grew a little taller. And meaner.

The man has orange hair, complete with sideburns, and emerald eyes. Bertram even wore the same outfit Charles did. But Charles never gave a scowl, and Bertram did.

Both meaty arms slammed the wooden counter, and silence reigned the once jolly bar. Plenty of patrons gazed at the commotion with little interest or morbid fascination. This irked Aether a little, but must remind himself that he was merely a stranger. The people of Mondstadt knew one another, and having an unfamiliar face was like flipping a coin. Either you like them, or you don't.

Grabbing Aether by the collar, the bartender inched his face closer Aether. "I'll ask again, WHAT THE FUCK DO YA WANT?"

"A room?" Aether wanted to have a drink, but settled to rent a room first. He wasn't in the mood for a bar fight.

A pause settled in the room, but the patrons watched both men in anticipation. They knew what would happen next.

"Alright, that'll be fifteen-hundred Mora upfront," Bertram replied, letting the boy go. "Another twelve-hundred for breakfast service."

What? Blinking in surprise, Aether couldn't get rid of that bewildered face, and had to resist scratching his hair in confusion. The audacity to insult him, then play the service man immediately. What a prick. But he couldn't get rid of the smirk in his face, and to Aether's surprise the man actually was giving him amused looks.

Aether reluctantly handed over a pouch of Mora, and the bartender nodded without checking.

"Wot? Ya gonna believe imma just gonna kick ya out?" Bertram snickered. The bartender returned to the counter with an amused look. The man made Aether look like fool. "Don't worry about it, mate. It was all good fun, isn't that right lads?!"

The drunken patrons of Angel's Share cheered in delight, sharing a few laughs in between. Was this Mondstadt before the Stormterror threat? In fact, he kinda likes it. The jolly atmosphere, good fun shared, and harmless jokes given. Aether couldn't help but genuinely smile in a while.

"Oi! Calm it down lads, the neighborly wives are sleepin' and ya don't wanna make 'em mad do ya?" the bartender laughed in jest, returning to his spot and continuing to do whatever bartenders do. "Apologies for the rude introduction, I'm Bertram. Caretaker of this putrid filth of a beauty called Angel's Share, and resident Bartender. Ya know it was all jest, yeah? It's unspoken rules to greet foreigners like ya with a warm welcome if ya know what I mean? Here have a drink, it's on the house."

Sharing an amused smile, Aether sat on a familiar spot. A stool right next to the bartender, and the place where he always saw Diluc doing his bartender job. But he couldn't help but ask, "Do you just give drinks for free every time you scare the shit out of anyone new that comes here?"

"Yeah," Bertram shrugged. "Free drinks to new faces is company policy, but all the fun and jokes came from me. Gonna make a great impression, ye gets?"

Great impression, indeed. As Aether drinks the mug of Dandelion Wine, and enjoys the sweet sensation in his throat, he reminisces about the past. He couldn't help but do so. Bertram was definitely an interesting one, a shame he wasn't around when he arrived in Mondstadt, and a person Aether would definitely become friends with.

"Definitely, you gotta have character when having first impressions of strangers and guests."

Bertram laughed, "Ha! Ya gets it alright, many sods couldn't handle their drinks, and many more couldn't handle good 'ol Bertram. What's the point of having a strong drink without complimentary insults at one another?"

"Some people are just not built for it, I guess," Aether replied, softly nursing his drink.

Many years prior, he would've never come back to Angel's Share if Bertram was around. But waging war across the world can change a person. Diluc was an example, as Kaeya would share stories of adorable little Diluc. As cute as that sounds, having the aloof yet cautious Diluc would be prefered. His vigilance in the night was vital to Mondstadt's defenses. Aether would make sure that Diluc wouldn't fall. Not this time.

Having enough drinks for the night, he said goodnight to Bertram and left to look for a vacant room. The bartending sent back his well-wishes as well, the night was still long, and there were still many to serve. Aether could only hope to catch some sleep, it was a long day indeed.

---

The Price.

Mora was immeasurable in Ningguang's eyes. They do not lie, change values, or criticize a person's taste. All they do is give meaning to a person's life.

At least they did for her, the sleepless nights and tired days spent on selling her wares gave Ningguang a purpose. That, at the very least, gave value to her miserable life. Others would spend it on family. She doesn't have any. And many would find companionship. She never had the time or energy for pointless things. It was true you can't buy love, but Ningguang never really needed that. She was fine on her own, all the effort and emotion were spent on gathering enough Mora.

Not to feed herself, as she had plenty to spare, but to materialize the value of her hard work. The symbol of her success and the status of her living. Not to give out empty boasts or gloat to others. It was merely to prove that Mora can give meaning to a person's life. Especially hers, because she has nothing left. All except Mora, and the Jade Chamber.

Not since her parents died in a storm off the coast of Liyue, and her sick baby sister died in her seven year old arms did harm Ningguang's spirit. She couldn't save her parents because she was only a child. Not being able to save the only family she had left because she couldn't afford basic medication was a poor excuse for her. Little Xin died in agony at just five years of age. And poor young Ningguang couldn't do anything about it.

But she stood up, feet bare on the soft sands of Yaoguang Shoal, and spent her young days selling her meager wares for just small savings of Mora. At first she still felt hollow and empty, and no amount of gold in the world could make her happy. That is until she saw a crying child, starving and alone. Just like her, the boy's parents died on the sea. Little Han spent countless days praying for his parents to safely come home, without anyone to look after him. He has no other family to provide for him and has no knowledge or skills.

Ningguang decided to look after him, and feed him. The Mora she worked hard on was used to feed another mouth, but for some reason she has no qualms about that. The moment Han smiled in gratitude and thanked Ningguang, all the aching pain, and all the miserable time she had alone was gone. She made another person happy, and it made her happy as well.

Little Han got over the death of his parents, and decided to accompany a caravan heading to Qingce Village. Determined to start again, he was inspired by the way Ningguang worked so fiercely. He would work hard as she did, and make a living for himself to help others as well.

Ningguang was touched, and from that day forth, she would use her wealth and share it with the people of Liyue. Together for Prosperity.

"Prosperity is Liyue's past, present, and future. This prosperity, unmatched and unobtainable by any of the other nations, is all for Liyue and its children to enjoy."

Words that drive her spirit, and the fuel for her passion of great success. And to prove her worth, she went to Liyue. Determined like Han to start anew, Ningguang would show the Merchant world their future queen. And so she did, after a decade of tumultuous hardship and unimaginable wealth earned, the first part of her chamber was complete.

Sure, it was merely a floating platform. But soon enough, the floating platform became a small room, then a house, and a mansion with a garden. Ningguang's expansion of her chamber mirrored her continuous success, all the profits she made were immediately turned into funds to greatly expand her home. And before she knew it, politics came into her realm. Even when the Jade Chamber was not yet fully built, she earned the title of Tianquan, leading star of the Qixing.

To most, it must've been a prestigious position to show wealth, to some a symbol of near-limitless political power, but for Ningguang it is merely a beneficial resource and a convenience to her goals. She would've accomplished it without the title of Tianquan, but if it would make her progress faster she has no complaints.

Working with the other members of the Qixing was an eye-opener for Ningguang. The many benefits it could bring really fascinated her, but there was an ugly side as well. To witness the unseen, to play the unplayable games, and to experience the unimaginable. Yes, her time as the leader of the Qixing really changed her views on the world. Nonetheless, no matter how ugly or beautiful the world may be, it did not change the fact that her goals would reach the heavens. To see the Jade Chamber encompassing Teyvat was a dream to her. But like all dreams, one will wake up eventually.

To see how cruel reality is.

When she witnessed the death of Rex Lapis, Ningguang thought it was over. The prosperity would end, and the world would suffer the consequences. The first few hours of that ceremony was a disaster, as every guest was a suspect, and even she wasn't safe from the suspicions. She had believed that they would never catch the murderer, but when a report of a suspicious boy and a magical flying pixie caught escaping the scene, maybe everything would be alright. The perpetrator would be caught, and justice will be served.

But the boy escaped, and many of the Millileth were injured. Though they did assure that the suspect would've fought when he was cornered, another player interfered. Making their escape, Ningguang resorted to using her primary source of information. Children.

She loves children, as they were innocent and detached from the adult world, and so every word they would hear was nothing of a consequence to them. It would just mean free candy. And when she finally heard of a flying pixie and a foreigner heading to the Northland bank, her suspicions proved true. Or did it?

After coming to that conclusion, Ningguang got a report from a millileth that the suspects were headed to Jueyun Karst of all places. The home to the victim's friends? Rex Lapis' own Adepti, the mighty and illuminated beings that watches over the lands and coasts of Liyue.

This revelation brought Ningguang into a state of confusion and doubt. Even when the millileth returned from their search party, battered and broken, her doubts still held. One thing was for sure, those millileth she sent were not dead. Those who can kill a god can easily wipe out a bunch of millileth, but the suspect didn't.

Something was at play here, and so she decided to ask advice from her fellow Qixing, the Yuheng Keqing. At first Keqing volunteered to invite them to talk things out peacefully, but Ningguang decided it best to send another messenger.

Fate played it out on its own, and now she was here.

"Truly, the world knew prosperity best. But that age of prosperity is over, as the rise of a new Paradise is inevitable. The old world must burn and make way for the new," laughed the Unknown God.

The battle merely lasted an hour, but the struggle was true. In the end it was but a stalemate that halted the assault, and the allied forces couldn't make a move however as they were stuck in their fortified positions. Until there was something done, the fight would end either way. Their deaths, or the subsequent defeat of the Unknown God. Mercy is a privilege that the Unknown God does not have. Or willing to give.

Never had Ningguang thought they would've held strong, if another hour of continuous fighting passed she would've believed that winning would never be an option. Just a slow painful death.

Oh, how cruel fate truly was.

"Say, my esteemed guest, what brings you here?" asked the Unknown God, her baleful eyes held no contempt, but those eyes held pure amusement. Amusement from the suffering of others.

Here she was, Tianquan of the Qixing, held captive. But to Ningguang's mind, it was merely part of the plan. She wishes to speak terms with their foe, and let herself be captured.

Since they were caught off guard by the sudden assault of the Unknown God, all the leaders plotted a solution. As long as she could hold conversation with the Goddess, then victory was assured. Lisa and Keqing went straight to the objective, whilst La Signora readied the bait. If knowledge would serve her right...

"You believe that you can stop me, mortal?" the Goddess scoffed. "Foolish, I was merely entertained by the thought of idiotic and naive fools who thinks they have a slither of a chance. Maybe giving them breathing space might make these acts of deviance a little more entertaining."

"Tell me," started the Goddess, gesturing to the room that seemed familiar to Ningguang. "How do you feel about the recent innovations? Unfortunately, while colors from Liyue are a beauty to behold, I prefer a more spartan replacement. I couldn't find your tea-sets, though. Apologies for being a bad host."

As the unknown god cried out in laughter, Ningguang's stomach grew a pit. How could she not recognize this? This was the Jade Chamber! And this smug bitch thinks it was funny to mock her success? How could she...?

"Oh, curious are we?" she grinned, giving the glaring Ningguang a mocking smile. "Your hardship was spent on this floating chamber, and all the effort in bringing this back to life was a mere simple affair to me. All of it, gone by a single threat off the coast of Liyue."

As Ningguang prepared herself, the Unknown God gave her a reassuring look, "But if you join me..."

Her arms brandish the very part of the empty yet massive hall of her former home, "This could be all yours once again. And this time no threat would undermine your achievements, as long as I rule Teyvat. Why fight? And why do you struggle for control? Why even bother, as I hold the cards."

"Power is not what rules the land, it's wit and subterfuge. You may struggle to triumph in battle, but as long as the war is not won, individual victories will become meaningless. Revel in your success, wallow in your misbegotten sense of security, for in the end, only bitterness will await you."

Having the Jade Chamber again? True, it was even bigger than her own. Maybe... NO! Ningguang already gave her price, and all the chances of having to succeed in this world are empty. There was no point in going back.

"I've already made my choice..."

"Hmm?"

The time was right, and now the pieces are set. Thunder roared outside, as the flashes of storms gave only a thunderous remark across the silent room. The Unknown God narrows her eyes, as the snow falls like the start of a blizzard in the fields and mountains of Sneznhaya. The Game begins... NOW!

Gazing back in determined ruby eyes, Ningguang replies, "I've come to bargain."

The doors of the hall burst in fiery ice, and Ningguang's legs felt cold. In every corner, and every wall the power of Cryo flashes like the unforgivable winter of the north. Static Electro energies rampaged between the enraged goddess and Ningguang. She heard the battle cries of the Yuheng, accompanied by an entourage of allies.

Visions flashed with fury, and the wrath of an Unknown God ravages the ranks of bodies charging the monster. No matter, Geo rocks and missiles were fired, blocked by the powers of the Goddess. She had made her choice, and the consequence?

Ningguang would die a martyr, or would die in vain. The price was set, nonetheless.

Her only regret was that a lonely little girl would never achieve her dream. Of palace and riches, of achievements and prosperity. Of simple happiness.

---

Breakfast was a sordid affair, especially with the look of utter contempt on Aether's face. Chewing down every bit of his breakfast and the monotonous effort in eating, he couldn't keep his emotions in check. It was a shame, the mash potatoes and eggs did nothing wrong, and he would've enjoyed the taste if not for his current mood.

"I really can't keep up with this," sighed Aether. "Will fate just give me a break already!"

The morning wind did help to calm his nerves, but the voices still ran rampant. Every movement he did felt numb. Earlier this morning, when he descended from the stairs, his legs felt sluggish as if they were injured. There was no pain, in fact he could not feel any sensations in his legs.

"Better not ask for it, brat."

The sight of Bertram made Aether nervous, he wasn't in the mood to have conversations, and his appetite was lost. Though, the man shrugged at Aether's pointed look, and served Aether a glass of water. He needed the fresh drink, and maybe that would calm his nerves.

"Thanks," he muttered, immediately drowning the water down his throat. "The breakfast was nice, but I wasn't in the mood."

"What? Ya just had a single drink last night and ya already have a hangover?"

"No, I was just having trouble sleeping. Couldn't keep my emotions in check," Aether groaned. Maybe a little fresh air would help?

Bertram didn't know what to say, "The festival is still going on, maybe roam a bit to clear yer head."

Good idea, and walking some distance might help in waking up the sensation in his legs. "Thanks Bertram, it was a good meal. Sorry, for ruining it."

"Ack, no problem lad," Bertram scoffed. "Having some time for yourself is ideal, ya know?"

Aether nodded his head gratefully. Leaving the confines of the bar, he set out to find something to do in this city. Maybe make a few profits?

Keeping a good eye out, the morning market was busier than usual. In fact, Aether was sure there weren't many people in Mondstadt when he arrived. The streets were utterly filled to the brim with hundreds of people minding their own business. Vendors, buyers, traders, and even family groups mingling with one another. To witness this side of Mondstadt was alarming for him.

When Stormterror arrived, the population dropped. Amber said so, and even Jean felt bitter at that fact. There were just so many she couldn't protect at that time, and with the minimal resources she had it was understandable as to why people left.

But having to witness every window was open and free, the doors of residences were the same as well, as if there was no current threat was an alien concept to him. Children played in the streets as usual, but this time accompanied by toys that were native to Liyue, kites. Heck, he even saw a massive group of kids rush out to the gates to probably play with those kites, and the Mondstadt he lived in never had that.

They would never be allowed beyond the bridge, and if they were, a parent or guardian must look after them.

"Young lad! Come see my wares."

A middle aged man called out to him, and Aether approached the vendor. Taking a closer look, the man was selling high quality wares of silk. Each fabric was shining with untold beauty, and any maiden with a sense of luxury would've bought them without a pause. But Aether had a lingering feeling of excitement.

What? He never really cared for such acts of shopping, and he was never talented at price gouging. As long as it is at a reasonable price he would purchase it. But considering these fabric prices, he doubted that he would purchase them. Making a profit, however...

"Not bad, did this come from Fontaine?" asked Aether, feeling a bit curious. Never had fabrics interested him before.

The vendor grins, "Close. But the majority of these came from Liyue and Sumeru. A trader from Inazuma came in last month, and was willing to trade these beauties to me."

True, as the fabric colors that mostly dominated his stock were of Sumeru origin. Woah, there were Silk Flowers! It was really hard to manage and create if one is not an alchemist. But Inazuma? Really? Aether narrowed his golden eyes at the man's bold claim, but he had a feeling he wasn't lying.

Inazuma closed their borders a few years before he awoke from his slumber, and when he and Paimon arrived in Liyue he already heard of how the Shogun had forbidden anyone to leave. So how is a merchant from Inazuma able to trade in Mondstadt?

Never take a seller's claims without a grain of salt, but every man has pride. Look for it, as some claims may have merit.

That voice, Ningguang? In all his time under her service, he was never taught how to swindle a poor man, but how to swindle a rich and successful merchant. Maybe a piece of her soul was still alive, tempting him to barter with the vendor. Great, even after the effects of the dreams some remnant of a person he dreams of still lingers. But what she said was right, and with how the vendor didn't even hide the look of pride on his expression. So maybe the man's claims did have a semblance of truth in it.

"Let us say that your wares are valid, but are these fabrics truly the quality you claim they are?"

The vendor's brows furrowed, confusion threatened to burst. First step complete, and now to set the hook and bait.

"You know, I just saw another vendor by the street down there. His wares were just as impressive, and much cheaper," smirked Aether. It was true, even an experienced buyer would not be able to tell unless they look closer. But in Another's eyes, they were merely cheap knock-offs. But the vendor before him did not know that, and now he was quite nervous.

"A-as you say, good sir. But-"

Before the vendor could retort, Aether cut him off, "Well, if you are not willing to barter at a fair price, then maybe the good man over there would love my patronage. Imagine his delight if I would spare my Mora for his effort and business."

Hook, line, and now sinker. The vendor's eyes widened at his claim, and the man couldn't even properly give out a response. He knew that letting the words settle in slowly would help the vendor process Aether's bold declaration, and when the time is right he would press the vendor's desperation.

The man looks uncomfortable, but replies, "Hmm, maybe if I can lower the price for a little bit-"

"Double items, half price," groused Aether, giving an act of an impatient man. Crossing both his arms in his chest, and letting the vendor know how dissatisfied he is. "Take it or leave it."

Finally, the vendor sighs in defeat. "Alright, let us discuss proper terms."

He smirked once more, feeling better now and the rush of a trade deal felt good. But Ningguang warned him that having to too much and wanting more is greedy. As long as transactions are at a better pace, Aether could earn more Mora than he ever had. Maybe being her bodyguard wasn't so bad after all.

Having the vendor relinquish his wares to Aether's hands, he immediately went to the vendor with the cheap fabrics and sold them four times the price. The other vendor was more than happy to buy them off from him, and he earned just a little Mora to himself.

With a rush of high euphoria, Aether couldn't help himself and spent hours till lunch time bartering and swindling Mora from other vendors. Taking time to study the state of Mondstadt's market, he could confidently say that he knew which price of wares were higher or lower. Which would be cheap to buy and very expensive to sell to others. Aether saw a man selling artifacts from the streets.

They were so cheap that Aether bought a dozen of them, and sold them off to a jewelry store from the main street. Apparently no adventurers would buy them, as they weren't that impressive, but the seller did not realize how valuable they are to jewel enthusiasts.

As Aether decided to spend a little more time "earning" Mora, he saw a peculiar sight on one of the street's corners. It was a kamera, but was heavily outdated. Placed on a wooden stand, the kamera seemed to burden the support, but it was still effective to take a picture. Aether saw a photographer, and a lovely couple having a quick photo shoot. Approaching them, he couldn't help but cringe at the prices written on a board.

He had his own kamera, but it was small and portable. Maybe he could sell it off, no swindling this time. It was of no value to him right now, as taking pictures of himself would just be depressing as heck. The last time he had taken a picture was between him, Kaeya, and Amber.

The last of the knights of Favonius. He tore the photo apart when Aether heard of how Kaeya perished during the assault on Celestial, and Amber's sacrifice to obtain the Abyssal Key. The key that the Unknown God had stolen from Lumine, the item that would allow safe crossing across those cursed land of the Abyss.

After the couple were done with their photo session, Aether approached the photographer. Telling the young man of his proposition, and showing his kamera, the photographer gasped in shock and rushed for his boss.

That reaction confused Aether. It was just a kamera, and saw no value in it.

Apparently it did for the photographer. How strange...

"Fascinating design…" the man behind the counter stared at the device in something akin to awe. He was an overweight man dressed in bright colors. "I have never recognized anything like this before. Where did you say you procured this?"

The owner of the photo business was none other than the massive man, he wore the traditional style of Sumeru, and he even had the turban hat that was common in the region. The man's tanned skin contrasted his cream clothing, with a shade of orange and red. This was a business entrepreneur before Aether, a true connoisseur of the trade. So he must be careful to not disappoint.

"Liyue," Aether replied, frowning just a little. The man's reaction was a little out of place, especially his awe. While he was used to people like this trying to trick you into a bad deal they normally did it by acting like the thing you were trying to sell wasn't worth much.

"No way!" the photographer and assistant of the merchant replied. A bewildered look between them was shared.

"It must be a prototype design," the man muttered, practically salivating. "Some of these features are extraordinarily well-made, and the frame, ah, it is so lightweight! Liyue, you say? Who gave you this?"

He really wouldn't know if Xu would care, but decided not to risk it. Xu doesn't know him, and it would be suspicious if Aether spouted random people's names. "A friend."

It was just a damned Kamera, what does it take for it to sink in for both the merchant and his assistant. "Your friend must have connections with all the right people. Only a brilliant mind and innovative soul could only come up with such genius! This is incredible! Truly magnificent, one of a kind, indeed. I'd expect something like this, well, not even the major manufacturers have released something so advanced as it would take decades to even think of something like this."

"Well, he did have a lot of connections. A trader friend of mine was... very enthusiastic." Xinqiu would like to boast at times, but he'd rather play the humble hero than a rich merchant's child. It really was endearing at times. "Is it worth anything, then?" he asked. Feeling a bit anxious about where this was going.

"Is it-? Young sir, this is worth good Mora indeed. Enough to buy several dozen of the current models! I may be able to reverse engineer this and steal the technology, bringing it to market before the original company can ever hope to!" The man cackled, and Aether had a moment to wonder if the merchant was mad. No one at Teyvat could ever compete with the largest and strongest trade confederation supplying the majority of the continent's kamera products. If so it would only change the profit lines of a few companies, though. The model was merely a few years ahead, not a decade's worth of innovation.

"How much are you willing to offer for it?" Eh, might as well barter for it, as Mora was Mora.

"How much do you want?"

Oh Barbatos, not this game. He knew it well enough from being asked to buy supplies for Fischl, Kaeya, and the others on their journey. The shopkeeper would leave the bargaining in your hands, and you'd pretty much always mess up and state a figure too low.

A true connoisseur, indeed. A year or two ago he might've started to sweat and give in but with limited Mora and Ningguang's incessant badgering and lessons had beaten that out of him.

"Well, I could always go and see some merchant down the road…" he began. Using the same card he did at the poor sod selling those fabrics. Even though there weren't many around for selling a Kamera in Mondstadt, having it sold in Liyue could be an option.

"No, no, no! Do not be hasty!" The man caved instantly, waving one hand. The other clutched the kamera, as if prepared to give his life for it. "I am not a man who would see you cheated, I promise. I am a man of honour and integrity." So said every merchant ever. Aether wouldn't be surprised if it was a common claim.

"Just as you know, I'm not hearing the value."

"A hundred and fifty thousand Mora!" the merchant brazenly declared. Aether nearly fainted then and there. Hundred and fifty-thousand? One of those kamera costs – or would cost – maybe thirty-thousand Mora in the shops, though even then most people bought it on some kind of package where they normally paid a little bit each month and a larger deposit. One hundred and fifty-thousand for one was ridiculous. It was far more than what he had planned. But he hadn't been meticulously trained by the leading star of the Qixing for nothing. "Two hundred-thousand."

"One hundred and seventy-five-thousand, and that is all the Mora I have in Mondstadt," the man started to beg. His assistant aiding him as well. Both of them bowed in desperation. "I promise you this now."

"Deal." Aether held out a hand. To his shock, the man actually shook it.

"You will not regret this, and I shall not forget it," he said, lifting up a tray and began to stack Mora upon the table, all of it in massive pouches. "You won't regret one one bit. In no time, I shall have started a new trading empire, and let it be known that it was you who sponsored the Great Fazl!"

"Y-Yeah sure." He took the Mora, counted it out, and was again surprised to find it was right on the money. He doubted Fazl, if that was his name, would have any hope of manufacturing this model before the original company in Liyue did, but that wasn't really his business. Hopefully the man wouldn't be in too much financial difficulty over this.

---

Having to feast like a king was refreshing and all, but sadly it would seem that Good Hunter did not open yet. Weird, he heard that Amber claimed that it was already a few years in service. The amount of strangeness really bothered Aether, and he had yet to find any answers. And so, he wandered around until he found a quaint little restaurant. It was cheap, but the quality was good.

Ordering a sticky honey roast with a pair of mushroom chicken-skewer, and a cold cut platter was easy enough, especially when loaded with a lot of Mora. This time, lunch was a calming affair. His breakfast was ruined with the messy morning he had, but having to redeem himself felt great. And this time, he actually tasted the food and enjoyed every last bite.

Giving a satisfied burp, Aether took his time to rest. The day was plenty, and the rest of his journey will come soon. He couldn't wait to see Paimon again, and maybe meet Amber once more. What should I say? The things he wished to say to the Outrider was a lot. Of how he was sorry, and maybe start over their friendship again. It might've been a little weird for a stranger to say, but Amber did not need to understand.

Or maybe just treat her to a champion's steak!

Having to see Venti again might be fun, though Aether wonders where had the bard gone? If there was anything Venti said, it was that he appeared a few months prior to Aether's arrival to Mondstadt so the bard must be around. He did not see Venti at Angel's Share last night as he was hoping. He hasn't visited the statue or the church yet, but until he meets Amber, he will ask her to help him find the bard, he couldn't risk having the attention of the knights then. Venti must be drunk somewhere.

There was loud muttering from a gathered crowd from the gates, and Aether saw half a dozen knights forming a line and blocking the gathered crowd. He recognized two of those knights, Alfred and George. Deciding to see what the commotion was about, Aether left the seat of the restaurant and dropped a bag of Mora as payment.

"Please! I have authority from the Grandmaster, and we are pleading with the good people of Mondstadt to stay within the Walls!" Alfred shouted, though that did not calm the crowd. Aether was sure that Jean's own authority might quell the crowd's rather impatient attitude towards the knights, but he was gravely mistaken.

"Let us leave, you cowards! I have to go back home!"

"What is this? Why are they holding us back?"

"Did something happen?"

"Excuse me? The people are blocking my way. I need to leave immediately, and this crowd is not making things easy. Where are the knights, and what the hell are they doing?!"

The tension of the crowd was beginning to shimmer, and Aether thought that it would erupt soon. Having trouble seeing, he gently pushed his way in front of the crowds. Finally having to see what is going on, he can see that Alfred was begging the crowd.

"Everybody must calm down, the gates are temporarily shut from the orders of the Grandmaster!" Alfred shouted again. "Reports of hilichurls rampaging across the plains and Starsnatch cliff incentivize our authority to deal with this threat. Until it is over, please stay still within the walls!"

Some of the more stable-minded of the crowd listened to his words, and having a hilichurl threat freely in the countryside was worrying enough. But there are those who are still adamant to have their way.

"Hey! This is a violation of our rights! You can't steal that from us!"

"Yeah, and why should we listen to you damned knights? Your corrupt leader is probably too much of a coward to effectively deal with this threat."

"No wonder they had to resort to blocking us. The Grandmaster was probably ashamed of his way of dealing things to let us see his incompetence! Damn that coward!"

Aether couldn't accurately hear what the angered crowd was saying, but he did hear someone insulting Jean. Why would anyone do that? All the people of Mondstadt know how Jean struggles everyday to bring peace to Mondstadt. And this is how they paid her? Insulting her troops and her title as acting-Grandmaster? He knew threats were apparent, but the people weren't listening. He had enough of this.

Conjuring a gale of wind, he prompted his Wind Blade and ushered a blast of Anemo power between the crowd and the knights. The winds roared as Aether unleashed it, and the crowd grew silent. As did the knights, with their weapons drawn, staring intently at him. Knowing who the perpetrator was, the crowd gave distance from Aether. The silence was tense, but it was enough.

"You heard the knights, if you wish that your family and friends would be threatened by your ignorance then go ahead," said Aether, gazing with pure intent against the crowd. The last time he had to address a massive amount of eyes and ears was before the assault of the Abyssal Fortress.

"But if you wish for this to be over quickly, then let the knights do their job. You'll be only adding more complications, and getting more people hurt. If you wish to be so arrogant to think you can do a better job than them, then please, go ahead and try."

Giving Alfred a quick stare, the knight understood his meaning and nodded. "Very well, we will be able to let a few go. To those who especially wish to endanger themselves, remember, the jurisdiction of the knights are out of your hands, as most are already occupied with the current threat. We won't be stopping you if we wish."

This time, the look of mistrust and doubt replaced the outrageous anger. Aether knew when to abuse such a perfect moment.

"Please," Aether begged. "If you love your family, then please let the knights finish their work. And all of you can go home safely, especially with peace of mind."

Seeing as many now agree with him, he continues, "Don't let fear control you, for now just have a little faith."

Another silence lasted a minute, and before long the crowd began to disperse. At first, those with children or family left the gates unimpeded, having to trust the knights for once. It was then, business men and other traders decided it just wasn't worth the time and effort. Then it was the belligerent crowd that stood their ground, staring with intense gazes at the knights and Aether, too arrogant to leave. But as the last of the crowds left, only more than a dozen remained.

Aether held his gaze back, challenging those who would make eye contact. None of them lasted for more than ten seconds until they finally relented. Grumbling and scoffs were exchanged, but other than that they left without arguing.

Giving a sigh of relief, Aether says, "Thanks for understanding my message, sorry about what I did with the crowd. Are they usually this rowdy?"

"No," Alfred sighs, in a more tiresome manner this time. "But it would be much worse if you hadn't stepped in. Having most of the knights not present in most situations is kinda embarrassing, but we do what we must. For Mondstadt."

"For Mondstadt, as always," agreed Aether, earning a surprised look from Alfred. "Anyway, since the knights are too occupied with the mess, I shall retire early."

Since the Abyss Order was committing something, Aether would rather have not interfered, especially when he was not supposed to show himself yet. Leaving it with the knights was a better alternative. They handled it from his timeline, they'll handle it once more.

As he was ready to turn back and return to Angel's Share for the afternoon, he did not see Alfred squirming from his position. As much as he would not like to admit, the knights weren't as competent as they could be, especially when Captain Varka was not present. The officers and the Grandmaster would rather wait for him to return, and as much as the public now believes there were no knights present to take the threat.

Sure, with George, he and the rest of the gathered knights at the gate could take a shot. But without a strong fighter like Varka, they wouldn't be able to match an entire tribe, and with Abyss mages present it was near impossible for them to come out unscathed. As much as it hurts Alfred's pride...

"Wait a moment, foreigner," Alfred said, waving back at Aether.

Halting in his tracks, Aether wonders what it was this time. "Yes, sir knight?"

"We were wondering if you can join us," Alfred gulped, feeling inadequate all of a sudden. "Our cavalry Captain is occupied, please lend us your aid."

Following in his example, the rest of Alfred's unit clasped their hands in pleading Aether to aid them. And Aether was not so sure.

Yes, Kaeya may sometimes be absent. Especially when sent by Jean to 'handle' delicate affairs. Back then, he had an inkling sense of suspicion of espionage or intelligence gathering. Now, as a hardened man, Aether was not naive to the subtle but sorry looks Jean gives to Kaeya, and Kaeya laughing it off. To think the man was willing to...

Shaking his head off the memories, the matter at hand was surprising for him. "Are the other knights too occupied to lend help?"

Missing the shamed look on Alfred's face, Aether could only nod at the knight's unknowingly shameful logic, "The other knights... are more than occupied. They were held back by... shameful matters."

"I see," Aether replied, not surprised in a sense. He knew Grandmaster Varka already left for his dumb 'crusade' but he never thought this early. Whatever, it might be a small thing and Aether was more than willing to help. Especially Jean's knights. Though, Aether never thought the other knights would find the Grandmaster's crusade 'shameful' before. That was new.

"Alright, I'll lend a hand. Just give out the full details of this mess."

"Yes sir- I mean, of course. We'll debrief you on the way to Starsnatch Cliff, but if you must know- this is a kidnapping."

"What?" Aether gasped, if he only knew sooner... "And the perpetrators were the Abyss Order?"

"That's right," Alfred nodded, leading Aether out of the gates and into the bridge. All the knights with him were armed and ready. George's spear was strapped to the man's back. "It only happened this morning. And the victims were of noble origin. And children."

The last part almost made Aether stop in his tracks. Noble children? What were they gonna do to them? If he had known this any sooner... He would've done something. Anything! And to think he was enjoying his time swindling merchants left and right to make extra Mora than rescuing unfortunate children from this mess!

How could anyone in the Knights not inform him of such an act? He can understand Jean was too busy from her duties to discuss concluded but important matters. Amber and Kaeya seemed not to worry when he arrived, so the matter was resolved. Or it wasn't? Did they fail?

Wait. Alfred stated that they were the only ones going. Amber was occupied from scouting, and Kaeya was occupied somewhere from what he heard. But Jean was doing something, right? If these guys had failed...

Oh gods...

"Alright," with determined eyes, he was set on taking down the kidnappers. "Tell me how many victims were caught?"

"All we know is that seven children were kidnapped," shrugged Alfred. "And there was a prominent name among them, Gunnhildr."

"What?" Aether's confidence and determination dropped, and a pit of dread formed on his stomach. It couldn't be... As a nun and deaconess of the church, Barbara was fairly safe. And she wasn't a child. More importantly, she was a Pegg, not a Gunnhildr.

Not the only one.

"No... please no," Aether whispered. "Was it a kid? Definitely not a teenager right?"

Alfred gave him confused looks, "If I remember correctly, she was merely twelve years of age. Kinda tall for her age, though." Alfred remembered the young Initiate, skilled and determined. But she was still an initiate, only squires along with their assigned Knights are trained and educated to handle such threats.

He ignored Alfred's last passing remark, as Aether felt the weight of the world on his shoulder. They had another sibling? Why wouldn't Barbara and Jean tell him? Or they couldn't. Because she was dead.

He never understood as to why both Gunnhildr sisters did not bother one another unless it was necessary before, he did now. Only wished he didn't. Did their relationship collapse because of this?

But... Can I save her?

Aether doesn't want to understand the consequences of such an act. Maybe the timeline will change, or the future is screwed. But he doesn't give a shit, because Jean's and Barbara's sibling was caught in a nightmarish situation, and one that she wasn't able to escape from.

Supposedly, at this time, he was wallowing in his depression over the loss of his sister, as another sibling was lost and did not know about it. He felt shame for not doing anything for the two months Aether woke from this world.

But this time would be different.

---

Varka was pissed.

He's not gonna lie, but his little expedition was disappointing as fuck. The warring tribes of Dadapua Gorge were missing, no mitachurls, not a single peep of samachurls, and majority of hilichurls were missing. Apart from a few pockets of camps and patrols, nothing noteworthy was around.

He barged in the first tribe camp to the north of the gorge, with a glee plastered on his dumbass face, expecting dozens of mitachurls and a group of samachurls to bombard him with their combined strength. Varka knows the true strength of a hilichurl tribe, as he had roamed these parts of Mondstadt looking to get strong. Their numbers and unequal brutality was something he admired, especially the mitachurls. Those bastards were the toughest sons of bitches he ever faced.

He even heard of other variants from far away lands, stronger and more deadly. Sometimes he wished he was assigned to diplomatic missions, so he can fight those monsters.

But still, he had a bad feeling about this. The sun was still up and will soon set across the horizon. He better pack up and leave, those useless pieces of shits he calls officers might be panicking or something. Varka swears that if something major happens in town, and he happens to be missing the action, he'll take his time chewing those bastard's souls. That ought to bristle their meager pride.

Before he could even continue, his acute sense of hearing made him lean eastwards, and towards the entrance of the gorge. A familiar bustling sound of hooves thundering across the gorge. Varka personally knew the sound of Mondstadt's Calvary company. The company he spent a great amount of effort building up, only to be burned down by greedy assholes.

The pang of regret still lingers, especially of that jolly night merely a few months ago. He and the boys were merely minding their own business until Gallard, captain of sixth company, interrupted their jolly good time with a blunt invitation to their "great" circle of friends. Varka taught his troops the value of their post, and drilled into their minds the cost of having too much power. He didn't know if the upper echelon of the leadership deliberately planned this, or Gallard was just too stupid to be subtle about.

It didn't matter though, as his own knights turned on him. One by one, each of his loyal troops dropped formalities and only gave gazes of disappointment. Seldom was any for Varka to cooperate with his troops, as trust was broken and bridges meticulously burned. The past few months spent on his own, he avoided any contact unless it was necessary. His lieutenant and second-in-command, Julius Kaesar, would never approach him like this lest Julius believes it dire.

He's been gone for two days and this happens. He won't be surprised if Mondstadt was burning right now.

"Captain," Julius stiffly greeted, his steed hollered before Varka, and it seemed exhausted. One of the lessons he gave his men was to never tire out your steed.

Thirty-strong. A good number assembled behind their lieutenant. Why was the entire company with Julius?

"Julius," deadpanned Varka. "What brings you here? The cavalry cannot deploy without the express permission of your commander."

Ignoring the blatant barb, Julius replies, "The matter is desperate as it is, our commander abandoned his duty for a meager amount of entertainment, and we don't have time to exchange insults against a stranger like you."

"Look," Varka suppressed a sigh. "Whatever you want, deal it with the Grandmaster. A stranger like me has no right to deal with real knights. Now leave me be."

Julius had the shame to actually flinch at that reply, his armor clanking with nervousness, and his loyal steed shared its master's uneasy feeling. "I'm sorry, sir. I have no right to respond to you like that."

Halting his retreating steps, Varka gazed back at his troops. They were nervous, yes, but the air of fear and reluctance shadowed their normally stoic expressions.

"What's wrong, Julius?" Varka frowned as he witnessed his strong and courageous lieutenant sagged with exhaustion.

"It's bad, sir. The Abyss Order struck their latest scheme last night, and several children were kidnapped."

"What happened?" Varka growled. "Tell me everything."

Having to bring an extra mare, Varka rode with haste towards Starsnatch Cliff. Julius briefly explained on the way, the city gate to the north was breached, and so easily as well. Paving a way towards the undefended upper layers of the city, where several families of noble standing peacefully reside. Including the Gunnhildrs.

But how did a massive gathering force of a hundred hilichurls gathered without any noticing them?

"Damn," Varka cursed as he saw a group of wooden structures. "How could they have passed through us so easily?"

Starsnatch Cliff was a big place, many tribes lived here. But recently, a few disappeared. Usually it was common for a small tribe to move elsewhere, and Varka knew these as he mostly preyed upon the hilichurls closer to the city. But moved to Dadapua gorge since the lack of hilichurls at Starsnatch Cliff made him look elsewhere.

"Which company responded to the threat," he asked as he propped himself down from his temporary steed. "Surely there must be some knights able to respond."

"I'm afraid not, sir," sighed Julius. Varka's fears were realized as he unsheathed his ready blade from his back, a massive blunt blade. "If there were any, they wouldn't be able to handle something as big as this."

"Shit, where's commander Brightburn? The old man must've not returned yet."

"Yes, sir." Julius also joined Varka, unsaddling himself out of his steed, and prompting his sheathed blade. "He and his outriders accompanied Lord Ragnvindr from his trade and diplomatic trip to Liyue. I sent a pair of knights to the winery to warn them, and if possible fetch the commander."

"Good work, Julius," he praised his lieutenant. "But we need to deal with this now, before any of these bastards make a move to the city."

Julius smiled, "Worry not, sir. The cavalry is with you. Say the word, we shall descend upon them like the raging storm of a thousand winds."

Witnessing a few dozen of his cavalry troops nodding back in agreement with their lieutenant made Varka proud. They would drop their feud in an instant for the protection of Mondstadt, and were even more than willing to fight by his side. It's a testament of their loyalty to Mondstadt's ideals of freedom. Barbatos bless them.

Brandishing his massive blade, he was ready to charge the entrance of the settled army of hilichurls to at least to cause chaos enough to distract his foes until his cavalry freed the kidnapped victims. Trusting Julius enough to let him handle this, he took a step forward. It would be settled into the annals of history, Varka the Liberator or some shit. It would've been glorious, if not for the flying hilichurl heading their way.

The creaking of a neck, and a crash. Silence descended upon the gathered knights. The disintegrating corpse of a hilichurl startled Varka. Sure, he had witnessed many deaths of a hilichurl, considering the majority of those deaths were in his own bare hands, he was not surprised. But having one landing in front of you, and not the person responsible for doing such a fun act was concerning for Varka.

"What. The fuck?"

No other words uttered could explain what the cavalry unit just witnessed. "Captain, look."

Julius gasped as he saw more hilichurls falling down from the sky, and heading straight towards them. "Take cover!" he didn't hesitate, and gravely shouted at the unit.

Varka and the rest of the cavalry company ducked and took cover amongst the many rocks and trees. Suppressing a curse as a samachurl splashed right next to him, "What the hell is going on?!"

He found his answer as the gale of wind blew their bearings off, a force enough to even push the horses down to the ground. The afternoon sky glimmered with grey and thunder, striking each knight to their knees as the strong winds threatened to blow them away.

Varka noticed the strongest wind current goes downward, coming from the tip of the massive cliff. What kind of force was able to suddenly push humans and hilichurls so easily? His thoughts broke as a howling sound of defiance thundered at the top of the cliff. Looking over from his cover, he saw something that even amazed him. It was but a single man, in a cloak, bursting with Anemo energy. The unknown man walked with measured and patient steps, it was more impressive considering the angry winds that surrounded him even managed to terrify their foe.

Fifty of those dumb hilichurls dared to charge blindly against their human foe, but in a mere gesture of an arm, all of them shattered into a million pieces of flesh and bones. Arms, legs and mask flew like mere leaves on a calm storm. Blood splattered into the ground like painted by an enthusiastic artist, leaving a trail of red splats and dashes in his wake.

"Julius, something tells me that the man over there already has the same idea."

His lieutenant could only nod as all of the gathered knights watched in morbid fascination as the hilichurl army vanished by the angry winds. Not noticing twenty meters away a small number of knights watched in horror as well, clinging to their weapons as if a lifeline to hold on with their lives. Blue eyes in awe, as the will of the Anemo god blustered upon the unfortunate victims of its champion.

---

Jean was scared, huddling to herself as the thunder and screams continued.

She was too weak, and she awoke to the sight of wooden cages. Jean was happily reading her borrowed books, and a few household members were with her. Dinner was ready, Jean was tired of the choking loneliness within the manor. At least she had honest company.

It was then, on her way to the dining room where all the household members awaited her, the sudden urge to lay down and sleep took hold of her.

The sounds of children wailing and scared whispers woke her up, and the feeling of dread pooled within her soul. Jean, along with a few familiar faces were taken captives. Of whom, Jean later saw, as the bustling activity of hundreds of Hilichurls swarmed in the camp.

The sight of an army froze Jean in terror, this was nothing she would ever imagine would happen in Mondstadt. Where were the Knights?

The strong gales descended upon the wooden cages, startling many of its unfortunate captives. Children of all ages and height, witnessed their once terrifying captors blundered out of their camps in a desperate attempt to hold back something much fiercer than them. She watched as some of those children in clear view of witnessing who would come after such a massive force of hilichurls turned their expressions of joy to horror.

She could sympathize as well, as the screeching sounds of cracking bones and bending flesh would forever haunt her dreams. Jean was a Gunnhildr, she'll prevail. For Mondstadt, as always.

Fear is just an emotion which can be conquered. Well, her mother said so. If she were to be a Knight, she must conquer her fear, and move forward without hesitation. This was her chance.

"I can do this," Jean whispered in encouragement. She wonders how Barbara was doing. Maybe spending time at the church was preferable than here. Jean would never endanger her sister like this.

Standing up on her two feet, Jean looked for a way to get out of the cage. "This is just wood," Jean grumbled. Correction. It was bamboo. Her arms burned in protest after trying to exert force into the cage.

The other children ignored her brave efforts, and Jean was nearly discouraged. No, something was happening out there, and she hoped to rescue the children before their captors would realize. It would be bad if their rescuers would get bogged down in fighting the hilichurls and rescuing the children at the same time.

Then it happened, as a hilichurl crashed into the cage that held her and many other children. Its body disintegrated into a million pieces, but not before splattering some unfortunate child with its blood.

Screams were shared among the poor victims, and Jean could only do so with her thoughts. As her mouth barely uttered a word, her throat caught in a glimpse of horror. The structure of the cage crumbled, and at once many of its captives escaped with haste. Trying to find any hiding spot, not willing to witness such violence until it was over. Jean was the only one left, still shell-shocked of the perished hilichurl before her.

Be brave, be brave, be brave, Jean chanted. It was just blood, Jean had seen it before. She tried to reason her mind that she was a knight in training, not a child anymore.

Was this what a knight could face? Blood, limbs, and utter destruction?

She wasn't that naive to think so, as she was personally taught by her mother what the world could truly be at times. Her mother's words couldn't do justice to the carnage she had witnessed, as the cage's cover was finally lifted by the angry wind. Dozens of bodies littered the once bustling camp of the hilichurls. Many still lived, but in agonizing pain, some without limbs and others half their bodies.

Jean wanted to be strong, to protect the people of Mondstadt. Not like this, as many unfortunate children were taken underneath the nose of the Knights of Favonius. To be gifted by the god of Anemo's blessing, and attain the power to do her duty was her dream. Jean promised to work hard for something like this will never happen again. Not on her watch.

She had sacrificed so many things to get herself to where she is, but the only thing she can do was freeze in fear in horror? No. She denies it. Brave. Strong. Protect.

In all honesty, she wanted to become like Vanessa. A strong warrior serving Barbatos' wishes for a free Mondstadt.

She didn't feel like a Liontooth, or any brave knight, in fact Jean felt as if being a knight was too scary. What was the point? To bleed and fight for what? If her mother couldn't even protect her, what was the point for being a knight? Jean's father left, taking her sweet little sister Barbara with him. If family was not she fought for, then what would drive her to be strong?

These fleeting dreams of dandelions and freedom became much more jaded as time passed, and the night of terror came when the creatures of the Abyss took her along with many other children. For what purpose? Nothing that Jean could easily comprehend, that's for sure.

The halting of screams brought her back, shaking off the negative emotions and steeled herself. Jean might've not been a true knight, but she was still a Gunnhildr. One of the oldest clans in Mondstadt. She doesn't need to be brave, just strong enough to survive.

Following the rest of the children, Jean saw dozens and dozens of crates stacked up. It was at the edge of the camp, perfect for overlooking the camp whilst avoiding the carnage amidst the center. Whispering a prayer to Barbatos, Jean composed herself and rushed forward.

Joining the rest of the children, she noticed the older ones at the top of the stacked crates. What caught her attention was the look of awe. Curious, she mustered her strength to climb upwards. The angry clouds were now gone, replaced by the light of the fading sun to the west.

Gazing at the place where the older children were looking, she expected countless bloodshed spilled by numerous knights and hilichurls.

What Jean witnessed was nothing normal.

Her grey-blue eyes locked on a single entity, surrounded by dead bodies of hilichurls. The sight made her queasy, but the sheer presence the individual gave brought a weird sensation of nostalgia and calm. Barring the fact that the individual's dirty brown cloak was now soaked with blood was ignored. It was those piercing and dull golden eyes that took her breath away.

Magic, there was no other explanation.

Lisa had regaled her with tales of Paladins of Ancient times, having the power to inspire and give out hope. Her friend theorized that Vanessa had the power, having only a blade and a banner to her name, along with the blessings of Barbatos, she had liberated the oppressed city of Mondstadt with nary a casualty.

The feeling returned once more, inciting a sort of foreign feeling. He was tall, incredibly so. Jean was proud of her blonde hair, but it was nothing compared to the beautiful, long-braided, and golden hair that the individualy and proudly displayed across the orange horizon.

She couldn't help but keep her gaze with unmitigated intensity, and thought to herself, 'Was this a knight?' It should be, no other group in Mondstadt could arouse her spirit with such passion.

The fear and awe was gone.

Determination drove her soul, and Jean never felt this courageous before. Not when the Initiation started, nor when her mother would command Jean to spar with her. Fear and horror are just that, simple emotions driven by others. But Jean was a Gunnhildr, her ancestors defied the Cruel Decarabian, rebelled against the oppressive nobility that haunted her home once, and now, Jean is here to prove the same.

The boy, no, man glared intently at the half-dozen hilichurls that surrounded him. Jean gasped as she saw a hilichurl charged behind him. Where were the rest of the knights? Shouldn't there be more? There were no other entities with him. If the man's other companions fell, there should be bodies.

But there were none.

Did that man just charged in here, slaughtered a good number of them, and challenged those who would harm Mondstadt's citizens?

Her heart skipped a beat, 'How can such a person be so selfless?'

Was this man willing to risk his life and limb because her country was threatened? Fear suddenly struck her, what if he was exhausted? The thought of the man falling in battle made her scared once more. This fear was not for her sake, but for the man that dared to risk saving them.

Who can save them if that would happen?

It seems that fate answered her question, as a brave hilichurl stepped forward and attacked.

Cries of surprise murmured amongst the gathered hilichurls as the foolish one charged against the man was suddenly missing its head. This prompted the rest to charge as well. What shocked her, the rest of the children and even the hilichurls was that the man didn't even flinch as he impaled one with his drawn blade, and used Anemo energy to blast a pair of them.

A silver-coated blade? Jean's brows perked in surprise. Not that it was uncommon, it was just too ineffective against armor and less durable.

Her admiration grew as she realized that only a master swordsman can accomplish using a weak blade without breaking it. Her thoughts were right as the man swerved flawlessly to the side, dodging a hilichurl hitting him with a flaming club, and the man followed it up with a quick upward strike.

The hilichurl couldn't even say a word before being sliced in half, and Jean knew that this man, their savior, was alone. Fighting an army by himself, to rescue them.

Her eyes gleamed with admiration as he saw him using Anemo, as Vision holders were favored by the gods, and especially with Barbatos. The man fused his legs with pure anemo, and to her awe jumped high.

Pointing his simple blade downward, he descended.

As a wind of death and destruction, he glided through them, among them as he fell. Like a ghost, no other weapon ever had a chance of touching him, regardless of distance. The spiritually broken hilichurls were still rising from their own momentum as limbs were served, torsos cleaved and heads destroyed each with single scorching slashes.

Such brutality, supplemented with a skill unmatched by even her adopted uncle Varka, and the experience to execute movement beyond what humans can do was astounding.

A samachurl summoned a small hurricane, it wouldn't be so dangerous if not the fire that accompanied it. Another gasp of worry escaped her mouth as the man was consumed by the flames, but a cry of agony and a piercing sound made her silently cheer in awe. Her savior was alive!

"My savior," she vehemently whispered. It sounded right, and the beating of her heart accelerated on what she gloriously witnessed next.

The cloak burned, leaving with it mere ashes, and revealing a foreign dress befitting of a noble house.

A brown breastplate vest bearing his midriff along with a white scarf and a cape with golden decals.

He wears brown pants, dark gloves, and black boots, and has lightly-defined pecs which made her furiously blush. Her cheeks, red as cherry, suppressed the unfamiliar sensation of desire and reverence.

There was no time for that, as she saw the other children were safe and gathered to watch the bloody spectacle. An organized evacuation must be prominent as of now. As an Initiate, she had no obligations to do so, but the figure of gold inspired her to do more.

Jean knew her path now, a knight that would one day rival the brilliance and selflessness of the man. Something within her spurned.

Her savior, a knight of bravery and glory, cloaked in gold and honor, wielding the greatest blessing of Barbatos' chosen few; the Golden Wind of Mondstadt.

Jean was no longer afraid of the dark, knowing that a figure that represents the dawn will shine true the next day. All she could do was wait for that.

Hope.

---

The Abyssal Mage could not fathom what was happening.

Here he stood, strongest of the Council of Three, favored servant of the Abyssal Gods, Lord of the Death Gorge, Master of the Raging Inferno, undisputed Lord of the largest tribes one could attain in Mondstadt, and HE WAS FAILING.

It was inconceivable, it was unfathomable, the sheer ridiculousness of it all would have made him laugh in any other circumstance, but still here he was, at the very edge of his dominion, at the tip of the Starsnatch Cliff, his very sanity precariously on edge.

It was all wrong, down to the very sounds of the battlefield. He could not accept that this blasted battlefield would sound in any way different than any other he had heard in his long life. He should have been surrounded by the screams of his enemies as his hilichurls would impale his opponents, the begging of the dying as his mitachurls bore down on them, the eldritch murmurs of the Abyssal Gods, dark promises of power and eternal life, as his samachurl's wicked spells carved their foes and maimed them in honor of the Abyss.

Instead, here he was, his once one hundred strong army reduced to a paltry two dozen at most, the battlefield ringing only with the breaking flesh and bones of his hilichurls as they smashed uselessly against the glaring silver blade of his enemy, his fearless mitachurls in heaps of broken flesh as his enemy's sword and raging wind blades sliced through them, his group of samachurls, nothing more than puddles of blood and gristle, slowly disintegrating, and mere epitaphs of the Abyssal Gods' displeasure with their failure.

He had promised them that he would destroy this opponent in the name of the Abyss, and offer their screaming soul to the hungry Abyssal Gods, yet now, here he stood, risking the same fate, as he fought the army of one.

The Abyssal Mage looked again, trying for the hundredth time to find a way to break the assaulting foe, but again he found himself staring only at a perfectly disciplined, impossible to break bulwark of a man.

They would not fail.

As the mitachurl charged towards the open fields, the warrior sheathed his blade and jumped from the top of a boulder and into the leading foes.

"Hmph, a rookie mistake," snorted the Abyss Mage. Any sensible warrior would have retreated and tried to circle around towards the tribe at the other side of the field. Then again, any sensible warrior would not have stood alone against over a dozen enemies.

Odd, for a second he thought he saw his leading mitachurl's blazing axe stop, as the warrior smashed the mid-swing axe into the ground with his blade. Again, he thought he saw his mitachurl fall as the warrior broke it's spine with the palm of his right hand. Heavily imbued with Anemo energy, pulsing and radiating like a raging hurricane.

But that was impossible, surely the Abyssal Gods must have been playing tricks on his mind, surely this was merely a test of his determination.

And yet, it happened again, as another wooden-shield mitachurl charged into the warrior at full speed. The warrior merely took one step forward and the impact sounded like a cannonball hitting a granite mountain. Wooden splinters flew as the shield broke into a million pieces. The Abyss Mage stared in awe as his servant fell to the ground, his chest, lower body and forelegs caved in and broken by the impact and the mitachurl's own momentum and the warrior's Anemo power. A charge that could down a massive beast had barely halted the warrior's advance.

This…this had to be a joke.

Three mitachurls attacked in unison and yet it was still the warrior who made the first move. A step forward propelled his fist into one of the mitachurl's chest, caving it in, then beheaded it as he unsheathed his blade. A quick swap of the blade from his right hand into his left and a downward stroke sliced the knees of a second mitachurl who fell screaming face first into the stone ground. Before he even fell completely the warrior took another step towards the last of the three mitachurls and in the process crushed the fallen mitachurl's skull under his boot.

The last mitachurl brought his blazing-axe in a massive two handed strike from the left, putting all of it's half a ton weight behind the strike. Still, the warrior caught it with the base of his blade, near the simple guard of the blade. The axe and the elite's arms shuddered as if it had hit an anvil, while the warrior's arm did not even twitch. A simple twist of the wrist and the tip of the silver-coated blade was leveled with the mitachurl's face, then one thrust and the back of the mitachurl's massive head exploded as the sword ran through its skull and mask.

In the space of three heartbeats, the warrior had killed three of the Abyss Mage's elite, without changing his stance more than one step. No crouching, no spinning and no useless flashy movements, just a few simple steps and indomitable strength, precision and discipline. The Abyss Mage had been wrong, this was no rookie, this warrior was a veteran of the highest caliber.

"All at once," the Abyss Mage roared. "Kill him NOW!" He was only a few steps away and he needed to get there if he wanted to still have some warriors and claim victory without too many unnecessary risks.

As if catalyzed into action, the remaining five mitachurls surged toward the warrior, axes and shields leveled and battle oaths on their lips.

Two more mitachurls disappeared in a gout of hot-white and pale green maelstrom.

Another fell clutching his throat as it spurt arterial blood.

A fourth screamed in terror when his arms fell from his body as he started a massive overhead chop.

The last mitachurl fell apart, as the simple blade cleaved through the defending wooden shield, mask, hard muscles and iron bones, bisecting the mitachurl from crest to crotch in a perfectly angled and executed two handed slash.

The Abyssal Mage stood in awe a mere ten feet from the lone warrior. The warrior who had killed a third of his army by himself. The warrior who had torn through the elite as if they had been nothing. He finally got a good look at him.

"Most impressive, little insect," the Mage taunted defiantly, although he did feel his palms sweating on the shaft of his staff.

The warrior said nothing.

"No matter," growled the Abyss Mage, sending the golden haired warrior a look of utter contempt, and blissfully ignoring the carnage the human had wrought. "You, a mere human, stand against me? What foolish motives, those damned mitachurls were useless!"

The warrior, as silent as the grave, marched forward.

"You have killed a hundred runts and samachurls, by the Abyss, you even managed to carve my elite ten guards," he glowered. "But I am stronger than all ten put together," the Mage smirked. Still no response, the warrior simply continued walking towards him.

"Know my name and tremble fool, I AM AN ABYSS MAGE OF THE COUNCIL OF THREE, LORD OF THE DEATH GORGE, MOST FAVORED OF THE ABYSSAL GO…"

No transition. The Abyss Mage had been alive for untold centuries but he had never seen a warrior attack with absolutely no transition. There had always been a telltale sign that one was about to attack, a small flexing of the chest or arms, a subtle lowering of the center of gravity, his enchanted mask had always picked up on in, but not this time.

From step-to-dash-to-cut, the warrior had covered the last few steps that separated them in the time it took to blink and, in a show of insane strength and speed, had sliced through the Pyro shield's durable sphere with only one hand on his blade, and the other with overwhelming Anemo surge. It was only instincts honed over dozens of battles that allowed the Abyss Mage to parry the blade with the near unbreakable bone shaft of his staff, and yet he was still thrown off and landed in a heap seven feet away.

Instincts took over once more and, using the momentum, the Abyss Mage rolled, back on his feet in a combat crouch and lifted his staff with both hands just as the silver-coated blade fell again. The warrior had not wasted a single fraction of a second and had kept himself right next to the Abyss Mage even as he had flown through the air and rolled. He stood close, too close for the Mage to be able to properly use his staff.

In the space of a few seconds, the warrior threw a maelstrom of blows against the Mage, each blow that hit the Mage's guard paralyzing his arms with the force behind it and any that bypassed his magic coat carving a large gaping line of flesh and bone.

The Abyss Mage opened his mouth and let loose a gout of black corrosive smoke through his mask, another of the many gifts that the Abyssal Gods had granted him, but instead of backing away as he had expected, the warrior simply advanced through the smoke. Even as his foreign armor sizzled and corroded, the warrior's hand shot trough the gloom and grabbed the mage by the throat as his blade smashed his staff into the ground and from his grip.

How could he have lost? He was favored by the abyssal gods, he had been gifted a hundred hilichurls as servants for his service, and yet here he was now. Trembling at the vice grip of a mere mortal man. Unwilling to give in so easily, the Mage conjured Pyro in his right palm and with a furious screech slapped the warrior. The flame ball had been a point blank hit. Even as the foreign armor sizzled in fury, tearing away the leather, and letting the Mage witness a horrifying sight.

Even as he watched the warrior, he saw the ruin of his chest, abdomen and neck, nothing but raw muscle, burned skin and old scars pierced the warrior's flesh at the point of impact. And still the warrior had not moved, his hand still crushing the Abyss Mage's neck with the strength of a mechanical vice.

"Who…in the…deepest…darkest…abyss…are…you?" the Mage managed to gargle through his broken throat.

He got no answer, even as the warrior's blade separated his head from his body, he got no answer, as the Mage's soul fell through the Abyss to the waiting arms of the cackling Abyssal Gods to pay the eternal price for failure. The warrior watched as the Mage's carcass putrefied and rotted at an accelerated rate. In a few moments he would be mere dust.

Aether wanted to smile, but all he could see in the blade's reflection were a pair of dull golden eyes, some tear-filled, with fear and a few with hatred. As always, Aether could only see his shame.

The thunder of hooves knocked him out of his reverie, as over thirty horses charged inside the encampment. Now, without any bearing threats, a dozen children came out of hiding. Their cheers of joy made him smile, and this time with genuine care.

One of the knights that arrived carefully approached him, not with fear but with giddy and excitement. "MY. MAN. How in the blazes did you do that?! That was amazing! I mean, I'm amazing as well, but still. No one I have ever heard of in the seven nations could tear through an army of hilichurls like hot knife through butter!"

"Well then, you clearly haven't heard of me," Aether playfully scoffed. The adrenaline was wearing off quickly, but he was still alert with his own senses. Varka taught him vigilance in the greatest sense. Never be lax but also relax. A saying Aether wholeheartedly agrees. "Are the children safe?"

Both men gazed back at the knights that took effort to ready the children to safely ride back. "Don't worry about it. Let them handle it, it's the very least we could offer you."

Hmm, the knight seemed familiar. Did the Grandmaster ever have a sibling before?

"At least they are safe," Aether replied, still weary and tired. The confrontation with the Abyss Mage worn him out. He had faced many before, but why did this one feel different from the rest? More stronger, and if Aether's senses were right, more attuned with the Abyss.

"Uncle Varka!"

Varka?

"HAH! I knew my little dandelion was brave!" Varka opened his wide arms in a warm welcome embrace with a familiar looking child. "Hey, why don't you meet your rescuer, as long as you don't mind, boy?"

Aether caught himself as his breath hitched, the familiar blonde hair and and lack of a pony-tail, a familiar person he cares for stared back in awe. This wasn't supposed to happen... He saw Jean once or twice without her signature pony-tail, it caught his breath every single time, and he had a feeling that she was merely teasing him back then. It caught his breath now, but not for the same reason.

"N-no," he managed, though only after a great amount of effort. He tried to tear his attention away from those bright and awe inspired, grey-blue eyes. Jean, barely twelve years of age, didn't seem to realize how much she pierced directly into his soul. His intense stare brought up her cheeks with red again, and Jean couldn't help but shy away from his gaze.

"I'm so sorry," Varka, another voice echoed through his ears, so similar and yet different at the same time. "She isn't normally this shy, little dandelion here is usually outgoing with adults. She takes after her mother after all."

"Uncle, please no!" Jean whined, embarrassed to be called out by her uncle of all people. "I can introduce myself just fine."

Aether braced his soul, pleading to any gods that this was a mere coincidence. A joke, a prank. Haha, Venti, very amusing. You can come out now!

"I am Jean, heir to the Gunnhildr name, and future knight and protector of Mondstadt!"

Oh shit.

"T-thank you, for saving me," Jean blushed as she immediately retreated behind her uncle's amused smile.

"Heh," Varka could only spare Aether a sly look with that familiar dumb grin on his face. Somehow, he still blames Venti for this.

Fuck me.

---

DISCLAIMER

I do not own any of the fantastic characters that miHoYo has created, nor any settings, items and names written in the story. If I did, then I would be a goddamn millionaire. They are owned by Cai Haoyu and are the intellectual property by the rest of the talented staff of miHoYo. Any original characters belong to my own creativity, and if a real person's name was mentioned in the story it would be a coincidence. They are used without consent for this work of transformative parody. pls don't sue me.

(WE THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING OCF INC. FOR ALL OF YOUR GENSHIN STORY NEEDS.)

---

Author's Word

8th of October, 2021

On the behest of my server members, I decided to restructure the prologue chapters into one big chapter. Adding some new stuff, and fixing a lot of mistakes, this PROLOGUE was a big undertaking for me. It took me a week of writing, re-reading, fixing, writing again, and formatting. I have a small team of beta-readers (unofficial ones) that helped me format the chapter properly.

There are still many problems with it, but I am happy nonetheless. Some folks were a bit picky with the pacing, but it was understandable, as OCF is a slow-burn fic.

I wanted to add more character PoVs, but I have a feeling that people are dissatisfied with the lack of Aether's involvement. No matter, at least the PROLOGUE is much cleaner now, and can flow without problems of outdated author notes bogging down the story.

Be warned, as it is around 40k+ words, and it might be a long read. For the Liyue Arc, I'll edit it if the arc is finished. Too many chapters with parts in them, and I wanted to fix that. This type of formatting will happen to the rest of the story. I'll upload small parts of the chapter, then edit them into one big chapter after the arc is done. This also celebrates OCF's first year from December, and I wanted to fix some stuff before then.

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The stories that really inspired me to write Our Cruel Fate were a plenty;

-I'm Still Here by kathryn518

-Dauntless by Allora Gale

-Entropy by ShadowBlah2

-From Fake Dreams by Third Fang

-Once More, With Feeling by eragonl0v

-I'm Immortal by Phantom-Phoenix

-Heart of Glass by Arrixam

-Relic of the Future by Coeur Al'Aran

-Wind Shear by Chilord

-Want and Need by Kiiam

---

Special Thanks to:

Anything170

Cyberix96

MDLCREVIVAL

Reinsdd

ZacFF

keyking24

remixofdestiny

thedragondan

uraHasu

de-Morgana

charmeloen80

Sascha1998

Reinsdd

Lord Trollbias

Felix12791

DynoSpectra

Christopher Nagura

Cayala

For being the first ones to Favorite and Follow my story, and without their support I wouldn't have gotten this far.

---

Shoutout to the members of my discord server. A bunch of cultured individuals, the lot of you.

---

"Mom? I'm scared."

A small child of eight winters entered the dining room, spotting a tall figure she was looking for. The child was garbed in night clothes, depicting the stars and moon with the dark blue sky in the background. She has cute pigtails that stuck out from her little witch hat that her father bought for her on her last birthday.

Bright emerald eyes stared back at her, warm and gentle. A far cry of eyes she had seen in her dreams. "What's wrong, my little Mona? It is already past your bedtime. You know how strict your father could be."

Tall was an understatement, the woman was slender and lithe, but she had a comely figure that her father likes.

Mona knew how much, indeed. It still irked her how busy he was recently. "I know, but I can't sleep. I've been having dreams." She hated how hesitant she was right now, in front of her mother no less.

Her mother, a woman of calm stature, grew worried with her brows furrowed intensely. It wasn't everyday that Mona had dreams, as she was a gifted Seer, after all. The elders of the Order ascertained her talent a few months ago, the awakening of her power and gifts.

It would usually mean that Mona would grow to have unnatural dreams. Children of her age always had dreams, but since having to awaken her powers, Mona had no dreams for months. It was normal, but having one now means an ill or good omen.

"How long have you been dreaming, little Mona?" asked her mother, giving her daughter a warm smile. It scared Mona more than it should have. "You remember what Elder Thomane said?"

Mona nod, how could she not? Elder Thomane was a gentle and nice person, always fretting about small things. He was quirky, and weird, like all the other members of the Circle. Mona hopes she wouldn't grow to be like that; weird, and has fancy quirks.

"Yes, mommy, I remember. He said that I must write them down, detail after detail. But I didn't..." Mona paused, remembering the heat and screams. "...It was scary, and I- I don't want to remember." It was horrible, even as she had forgotten the details, she can still remember the feeling of fire.

Mona loved playing with candles, even if she got some small burns with them, it reminded her of her fiery and headstrong father, passionate and determined. It made sense to her small mind at the time, he was a Vision wielder after all, and Mona once dreamed of having one as well.

"Scary?" her mother frowned, and there was something flickering in her eyes. Mona wouldn't recognize it until she had her dreams as of late, because it was an emotion she was getting familiar with. Fear. "Tell me, it might not be scary at all, and it was just a dream."

Mona knew her mother was lying, as she eavesdropped in her parent's conversation with Elder Thomane. She grew excited when she heard that her lack of dreams was because she was a Seer. Mona had read every available book in town in finding details of what it meant as a Seer. It also meant good and bad things.

Normally, as an ignorant child, Mona did not care about the "bad" things and focused only on looking for the good things about being Seer. Mona tried sleeping early, doing meditation, and other calm activities when accessing your mind. It was all blank, of course, as she nary remembered anything worthwhile except calmness.

She gave up, as easily as any bored children do, and her father was amused. He did promise to look for a trusted member of the Circle to teach her.

"I remember a fire," Mona gulped. "A big fire, like the house on fire thing."

Her mother's expression was unreadable, but Mona learned in her dreams about watching the eyes, as they hold more emotion than Mona ever knew. Panic, confusion, and anger. Mona grew scared at that moment, was her mother angry at her?

"Fire? What was burning, child? Our home?"

"N-no. It was a large town, bigger than our own. White Marble towers, tall statues of heroic figures, and green gardens as far as my eyes could ever hope to see. It was split in two by a large river, and the mountains behind them."

"Fontaine," her mother muttered.

The first night after her nightmare, Mona was reminded of her terrible dreams by a painting that was like the town in her dreams. "I heard people screaming, I can't see them, but I can hear them. It was bad, the heat was terrible, and the cold was there too, it was nighttime now that I remembered. There were flashes in the sky, and whales swimming in them."

Apart from the dread, and the heat, the sight of those metal whales were majestic. Birds fly down from them and landed on the ground. Small boxes were there too, but Mona can't seem to differentiate them. She remembered a single whale was burning, like a firework, and the screech was horrible too.

"They are just dreams, my little Mona, there's nothing to be afraid of." Her mother lied again, it was getting worse by the minute as her mother seemed to panic. She grabbed hold of Mona's small shoulders, and the child felt no warmth in her mother's touch. Just fear, cold and scared.

"I am afraid, mom," Mona gasped in fear. "I was burning, the city was burning, and the wrath of the heavens was casted towards us."

City? What was a city? Mona thought it was a queer word. Whatever she just said, it was gibberish, but it felt right. We are going to burn, after all.

It was her mother's turn to gasp in shock and dread, as the woman, as her mother stepped away from her in fear. Mona blinked, and felt more tired than ever. "I- I'm afraid too, little Mona." Her mother tried to touch her again, by the fear was there, and held back. "But fear is just a part of us," her mother said, hugging her reluctantly. "Fear is meant to be triumph, yes?"

Mona nodded back, still unsure of what her dreams meant. But there was something else. "My dreams are not all bad. I remember feeling happy and content, with the company of strangers that felt like no strangers at all. Like, I knew who they were and why they were familiar to me."

It was weird, the feeling was there; Happiness, joy, calm. It was nice, but Mona felt she was missing something. "There was a girl in white, and a man in black, happy and close together. T-there was cake too." Mona was embarrassed that the taste of cake was the most familiar one she remembered.

"Oh dear, it sounds like you were happy," her mother replied, and that gentle smile came back. "Apart from the- flames -and the happy moments, was there anything else?"

Yes. There was, but Mona isn't so sure what to feel. Anger or joy? "It's weird mom, but everytime I dream, I am always reminded of gold."

"Gold?" Her mother's brow perked in question.

"Yes, I feel happy and angry when I am reminded of that in my dreams."

"I see. No worries, my little Mona, we'll talk to your father tomorrow morning, and even talk to Elder Thomane. How about that?"

Mona was happy to do that, she missed her father. And Thomane might know, he was wise after all. "Can I sleep with you, mom? I feel scared of sleeping alone."

"Of course," her mother smiled. "I'll tuck you in right now, and worry about what we talked about tomorrow, okay?"

Everything would be alright, Mona thought, as the dreams would end. She'll miss her dreamless sleep, and Mona won't cry night after night for it. In fact, Mona wished she never had the power of a seer. It was scary.

There was still something missing in her last dream, and Mona can't seem to remember it. She knew she was happy, but it ended there. Mona wonders how did that end?

---

Mona was laughing in bliss.

She had missed the crude joke shared by the crippled young man with the name of Thoma, who was a delegate from Inazuma, but the joyous occasion was infectious. She couldn't help but join in on the ceremony taking place today. The feast taking place helped cater to her appetite as well.

It has been a year since the start of the War that many folks called the Unknown War.

When she had heard that the Unknown God's forces invaded during the election of the High-Justice, Mona was horrified. Her first thoughts went to her mentor, of course, even if she was an old, bitter hag. Mona knew that the so-called hag can handle herself, along with the rest of the council. The people of Fontaine were strong, but even Mona knew the sadistic streak the Unknown God had when trying to incur her will and wrath towards one of Teyvat's great cities.

They were the symbol of human progress after all. Mona knew that the gods of Celestia looked down upon the sister-cities of progress with clear disdain. Liyue, Fontaine, and Sneznhaya. There was a time when it belonged to the Unknown God, Sneznhaya being the first to taste her ire, Liyue next, and Fontaine last.

It was a month ago when she heard the successful Liberation of Fontaine, routing the Unknown God's forces to the four winds, and disappeared into the void. No word since then of any activity regarding them. It usually worried her to a point, but there was no need to sour the mood, especially in a wedding.

Bennett and Barbara were enjoying themselves. It truly was a nice wedding they had. Before the wedding, they had a memorial for Jean, Babara's older sister. Who was taken from them too soon. But he knew that she would have wanted them to move on, and help Barbara live out her life to the fullest and without regret. He was just glad he was able to find happiness with Barbara. They had lost a lot of friends and family in this war. And it was good to see some semblance of normalcy returned to the world.

"It's a shame Jean couldn't be here." Bennett said, as Jean had died the year before.

"I know, but at least most of our old classmates could make it." Barbara said as she looked around.

Rosaria, and Mona, had shown up of course. How could she not? Free food and weddings go hand-in-hand together. It doesn't hurt that she was a special guest along with Barbara's mother. Noelle was still missing with her sudden venture back into occupied-Mondstadt. Mona had to fill in the role of Maid-of-Honor in her place.

As well as the remnants of Liyue's heroes. The only adult who could really make it was Barbara's mother, Lady Frederica, and he had given Bennett a lecture before the wedding. It was a funny sight to see, and a wholesome one, as Frederica had lost many of her family only to gain a new one. The old woman was taken into Bennet's kind and selfless nature immediately.

"All I know is that I'm glad the war is over." He said, as they had fought long and hard for things to be better. At least for a small while.

"Yeah, now we can start our family in peace." She said as she put Bennett's hand against her belly. Barbara already caught the excitement and congratulations a long while ago, and the couple were just happy in Mona's eyes.

Bennett smiled, unbelieving that the child in her was actually his. Mona had shared jest bets if it was a girl or boy, but no one seemed to challenge her on that. Being a well-known astrologer was tough.

"Do you know if it's a boy or a girl?" He asked. Mona had the initial bet of a girl, she knew better than anyone else.

"I don't know, I want it to be a surprise. But if it's a girl, I know what we should name her." Barbara said, as Bennett smiled.

"Oh? Don't you think that's something I would like to know?" He said with a cute smile.

"Jean." Barbara stated.

Bennett's smile faltered for a bit, remembering the name of his wife's older sibling.

"Don't you want to teach little Jean how to fight?" Barbara asked, as Bennett and Aether were trained by Jean before the war started. Bennett was thankful for her selfless insights and advice. He laments that he couldn't have a better older sibling like Jean, as she was one of the few that treated him as an equal, rather than as a living curse.

"I do..." Bennett said, as he kissed her. Mona had a feeling that Barbara was in bliss too.

Suddenly she noticed that one of the caterers closed the banquet hall doors to the room they were having the wedding in. So did Barbara, as a noticeable frown appeared in her face.

"Huh, that's strange," Barbara said, as she heard music playing.

(Play the song: Rains of Castamere)

Dmmmmm dm dmm dmm...dmmm dm dm dmmm...

The sound of a violin and cello started playing as she looked up on the balcony. Only to see that the band was the source of that music, that music that seemed way too melancholy for this type of occasion.

"Ah, if it isn't the Great Adventurer, Bennett the Brilliant..." A voice said as they all turned to see a man.

It was an old man who owned a bunch of companies around Teyvat, Metals, Crystals, Weapons, you name it. He probably sold it. To whom, Mona always wondered where his loyalties lie. It frustrates her that she couldn't read anything noteworthy about him.

Just like the Balladeer.

What's worse, he is a vulture that took over the Dawn Winery after Diluc's death. In fact, Mona heard how he took most of the businesses that were affected by the war, with their owners dead or missing.

Bennett had to make a deal with him in order to supply his armies, a deal which he had upheld. If Bennett's army were to win, the old man would be made one of the richest people in all of remnant, this was the agreement that was enacted, especially now that Ningguang was gone and Diluc dead. And was upheld due to most of the world's governments agreeing to the man's terms.

"It occurred to me that I have let one thing slip my mind." He said as Bennett sat Barbara down, since she was feeling a bit queasy.

"And what would that be?" He asked, not sure what he was talking about. Mona doesn't either, as the stars were blank as sin.

"I have neglected to give you a wedding gift." He said with a smile.

Meanwhile, Bennett's mother noticed something, the guards/chaperones they had for the wedding were nowhere to be seen. Knights that Kaeya had lent in before he continued his personal campaign against Celestia. In fact, there was absolutely no trace of them even being there. It was then that she stepped on something. A piece of cloth that one of the attendees had dropped.

Frederica picked it up and unfolded it. And her blood ran cold.

A Trinity Knot. It was the Unknown God's insignia.

"Bennett!" Frederica yelled, turning his attention to her, her motherly face gone and was pale.

Only for one of the attendees to pull a knife out of his sleeve. And walk over to where Barbara was sitting.

And plunged the knife into her belly.

"AAAAHHHHHH!" Barbara screamed as she was stabbed over and over again.

Bennett turned to see his bride being stabbed. But he soon found himself taking a few shots to the chest by Fatui weapons. He staggered greatly before collapsing on the cold floor. And that was when the massacre began.

A man walked behind Thoma and slashed his throat, being a cripple, there was very little he could do to defend himself. Multiple bullets soon shot out killing friends and family, Bennett's honorary sisters were beheaded and thrown to the shadow-wolves, their flesh soon served to be a filling meal for them.

Frederica tried to do something, but she took a crossbow bolt to the shoulder, as she fell to the ground.

"Almost too easy," Sandrone said, as Fatui Cincin Mages and Columbina made their way into the room.

"I hope you remember our agreement?" The old man asked, merely perking a brow as Columbina smirked beneath her masquerade half-mask.

"Of course Pantalone, in our new world, you will be wealthy far beyond your wildest dreams, far more than these...insects could give you." Columbina said as she looked over the dying crowd.

Mona couldn't breathe. Where was she? Why isn't there anyone that can see her? She feels like a ghost, witnessing this horror taking place. Wait.

Pantalone? The Merchant? Mona, and the rest of the world had believed he had died in the hands of the Unknown God during her first appearance at Sneznhaya.

It seems they were wrong.

Columbina watched the slaughter in unhinged delight, her sapphire eyes glowed with flames. Her armies may have been destroyed, but anyone could be bought and sold. And nobody would expect an attack at a wedding. So she snuck in some remnants of the forces scattered around Fontaine, and staged an ambush. And it had worked out all so well.

"..." an electro Cincin Mage said nothing as she watched Barbara Pegg bleed out, her gentle eyes going dead.

The Electro Cincin Mage was one of the few that escaped with the Loyalist forces of the Fatui, she knew that she was pregnant...she was the one who informed Columbina of her pregnancy. But she never thought Columbina would do this. She thought that would mean Barbara would be out of commission while she raised her child. She had no idea Columbina was planning on killing her.

Her loyalty did not belong to the Tsaritsa, and was in fact belonged to her mistress, Columbina. When the Electro Cincin mage heard that her mistress had survived the onslaught of the Unknown God, she left as fast as she could when the Liberation of Fontaine was over.

"Damn, wouldn't it be freaky if the little baby arm popped out of her stomach?" Sandrone asked, recording the whole thing with a simple click of a Kamera.

Only for a knife to get stabbed into Sandrone's throat, and for the Electro Cincin Mage to be seized by the throat, and had a dagger held up to her throat.

"Let us go! Or I'll cut her throat! I swear it, as a Gunnhildr!" Frederica snarled as Columbina was right next to the old man.

"You're hardly in the position to be demanding anything, Lady Frederica," The old man said as he took a sip of wine.

"Let me and my good-son go!" She said as Bennett was kneeling over Barbara's corpse, holding her head in his lap.

No tears fell, it was almost as if he was comatose. He looked at her cold dead eyes, the look of horror etched on her face. He placed his hand over her stomach. Knowing that little Jean had died along with Barbara.

It happened again...he let his friends die...but that wasn't all he lost...He lost a daughter as well. Mona could feel the utter despair and loss of the poor boy.

"Like I would let you get away so you could rally your armies again! I will strike them down when they least expect it!" Columbina stated.

The truth was Bennett's army was disbanded as soon as the Liberation of Fontaine ended. They were discharged and sent home. It had been a few weeks since the Liberation had ended. And there were no signs of conflict. So they had become soft. Which made them easy targets. No one expected to die in their beds, in their kitchens, or even squatting on the toilet. They were sitting ducks.

"Lady Fre-... Mother?" Bennett asked, as he stood up, his voice slurred from the blood loss.

Only for Scaramouche, the little shit, to walk up to Bennett. "The Goddess sends her regards!" He said as he plunged his knife into Bennett's chest. The bastard became tall under the dark corruption of the Unknown God, he did not need a chair.

Blood poured from Bennett's mouth as he fell to his knees. His face went pale.

"AGGGGHHHHHHH!" Frederica yelled out as she slashed the Electro Cincin's throat.

She dropped the knife...what was the point anymore? Her good-son was dead...her daughters were murdered. Her husband had been dead since the fall of Mondstadt. Her grandchild died before she could even live. And now everything they fought for was coming to an end. The peace they had worked so hard to obtain, was now gone, burned to ashes. By that bitch, the Unknown God.

Columbina put her out of her misery by disintegrating her into ash. Frederica was gone. Pale-blue flames erupted, and Mona burned as well. The darkness overtook her, and the only thing remained was a mask. And gleeful laughter.

Gold.

Gold.

Where were you, Aether?