A/N: This chapter should have been out a while ago but college and one scene in particular kept that from happening but alas, we're here. Enjoy this 20k treat for your patience. Happy holidays and happy birthday and belated birthday to my Hydro Queen and bridgemaker Nilou and Kaeya respectively!


Book One: Chapter Twenty

[Purification: The Spindrift Knight]

"When you find her, let your hearts be one. That shall make saving the woman easier." The voice of Miko notifies him.

Falling through the pitch-blackness, a singular light catches his eyes. Righting himself coated in a purple light, he pushes himself forward. Taking in blue lights around him, they disperse showing the other Cryo-users. Exchanging glances, they all refocus on their destination. In doing so, they all soon widen as large shards of ice close in.

"Watch out!" Acting quickly, Relon pushes Ayaka and Ganyu downwards as the others rise up.

"Lord Shogun, Ganyu, Ayaka!"

"We can't get close!"

"Tch! Damn!"

Forced to distance themselves more, the three Cryos can only watch as the distance between both groups grow wider with every second.

"Damn it, where are these coming from?!" Relon growls maneuvering through the air.

"Relon, watch out! Behind you!"

"Huh?" Turning, he can only feel a strong force slam into him for all to go black.

Unknown

"Mmmfff…" Coming to, the first thing Relon takes notice of is the grainy texture touching his skin. "Again…?" He mutters to take in the sand in front of him. "What's with me waking up on shores?"

Predetermined luck? A chance occurrence? Possibly something else?

"Well whatever it is, I would like for it to stop happening." He retorts, spitting out the remaining sand. "Anyway, what the hell was that?"

It was most likely the malevolence. To it, we are the invaders and it is simply protecting itself. And most likely the Cryo woman.

"Jeez, my head is still reeling. So where exactly are we even?"

Looking around, he finds the open sea accompanied by numerous jagged cliffs all around. Ahead of him, a path going uphill.

Hmm. Judging by the geographical climate, it is possible we are in Mondstadt.

"Mondstadt? Isn't this the region where the Anemo Archon resides? Could it be that this is where Eula came from?"

It is a possibility.

"Speaking of, where are the others? Ayaka! Kaeya! Chongyun! Rosaria! Ganyu! … Damn it, whatever attacked made us split up. Even worse, I got further separated from the girls." He mutters, his gaze lifting to the clouding sky. "Those blankets… it's going to storm soon."

How can you tell?

"I… huh. I don't know. I guess it's just an instinct resurfacing again. I remember watching the weather a lot but usually that only involved stargazing."

Mmm…

"I'm not going to hold it against you for not telling me, Ei. It simply is what it is."

Thank you.

Smiling at the sensation of her mood seeming to lift, he does the same with his head once more.

"Judging by the ground coated in snow, it's possible the weather is sporadic."

Then we should find the others as well as shelter before the blizzard comes. The evil plaguing this woman's body may know we're here so be weary.

Nodding in agreement, he departs along the snowy path. Sporting a frozen waterfall and dead trees, very little catches his eye until he notices the hill's peak. Hurrying, he stops to marvel at the sight. The land itself coated in snow with what one could discern as usual trees of green sit dead without their colorful shade. In the middle far off from the cliffs, a small pond harboring an odd statue of some sort. Further in the distance…

Mondstadt. The City of Freedom.

"That city is Mondstadt? We're so far out and it looks huge!"

Keep in mind, Inazuma City is only one community amongst numerous others. Were it all united and spread out, its size would be comparable on an equal scale.

"That's right. I nearly forgot. What's that?" He points to the small pond.

That is what humans call a Statue of the Seven. Many are scattered across the land. Many inhabitants believe it to offer protection to the world. Each statue is sculpted after the Archon of the residing nation. Upon closer inspection, you shall see this to be after the God of Wind; Barbatos.

"Barbatos… The Anemo Archon." He breathes out descending along the path.

You are fearful. Why?

"So far I've encountered only Cryo and Electro. Pyro if you count Hu Tao. Going against an opponent sporting an element doesn't give any positive reassurance. Being frozen in ice, sparked to a crisp, having my very skin burned to who knows what degree; the list goes on. Yet fighting against someone who can control the very air around you… I don't know. That just gives me a bad feeling. Especially if we end up having to fight Barbatos. They could possibly take away the very air around us and then we'll be all but helpless. The thought itself isn't pleasing…"

I see. From that perspective, you have reason to be fearful. Though it is as you just stated; as of now. Your skills have slightly waned, yes, but there is much that you must learn. Training your martial prowess is key if you wish to put a stop to this war. We are Archons. Gods of our respective element. No mere man can simply defeat a God. During the warring times hundreds of years ago and even now, armies would do battle while their respective Archons would clash until one side was too weakened to continue. In the near future, you shall have better control over our power. Should the event come in which you are to do battle with an Archon, do remember that you will not be alone. I shall be with you.

He had to hand it to her. Although there was much he didn't know and even more that she wasn't telling, Ei was genuine in her supportive the deepest corners of his mind, a part of him believed her words merely due to their lives being tied together. Though that thought was far off the mark. It didn't take a genius to know that Ei''s words held true.

"... Thanks, Ei. I needed that."

Reaching the pond, he looks around not finding anything out of the ordinary.

"I also need to learn how to control both elements instead of relying on you for help." He notes walking backwards.

Instead of jumping, how about walking atop the water?

"But I-"

I am able to exude both powers, remember? Although I am the God of electricity, I I have taken it upon myself to practice with your own Cryo powers. It was relatively simple to grasp the fundamentals.

"Easy for you to say that given your status as an Archon."

And you're a Demi-Archon.

"Whatever you say. So how do I do this?" He asks dipping his foot to feel the cool water. "It's not as cold as I expected it to be."

That is due to your body being composed of Cryo. Those of said element tend to be unaffected by the cold. Freezing water, frigid ice. Such things radiate a sensation of normalcy comparable to water of a common temperature or ice in a beverage. Though the blizzard itself can not directly harm you, it is still advised to take refuge so that the element's effect doesn't either.

"Well that explains why I'm not freezing given my attire." He inspects himself.

After this, he'd definitely have to get with Miko on work regarding a proper combat attire because a long-sleeved buttoned white shirt, black shorts, and sandals weren't gonna cut it. They're comfortable, yes, but not fit for combat.

Indeed. Now then, from what I have surmised through speculation of your recent activities, you are able to use my power when focused on a sole emotion. You managed to unleash a large portion of it during our battle against Trishula. In response to seeing Qiqi harmed, your rage gained domination. During your escape, your emotion was contempt towards me but you were focused on only that which is what allowed you to cross that large gap. And then there is today. Your happiness took the mantle and unlike the previous times, you were exuding my power all on your own not needing my help until the end.

"So you're saying that when I'm focused on a single goal that correlates to my emotion, I can use Electro. Yet, right now, we don't know what it is I have to do in order to trigger my Cryo."

Correct. In time, these will not matter but for a beginner it is crucial to understand how your elements occur.

"What about before all of this? Didn't Qiqi and use it with little effort?"

No… She pauses as if hesitant in continuing. Qiqi's skills were palpable at best. You did not wish for her to learn and so we did not push. As for yourself, you simply gained a "feel" for using it.

"Here's to hoping I can regain that feeling. Sooner rather than later, preferably."

Again, it is not the worst outcome. We shall simply have to communicate in battle. Much like you did with Qiqi. Now then, we've taken up more than enough time.

Feeling a trickle of coldness rush through his body, Relon shivers at the sensation coming from his feet.

Go on. Try touching the water.

"Here's hoping I don't embarrass myself." He gulps.

Hmpf. Have more faith in your God.

He can only chuckle at the pout from said woman. Raising his foot to hover atop the water, he peers more, taking notice of ice beginning to form. Placing his foot down, ice exudes around his foot forming a foothold.

"Whoa…!" Cautiously taking another step, more ice spreads around him. "This is awesome!"

Ahem, I believe some praise is in order.

"Haha, thanks again Ei. Boy, am I glad I got you watching my back!" He grins that childish grin, a sense of satisfaction resonating from the depths of his mind.

Hmm. Glad to be of assistance. She smiles.

Slowly making his way to touch the soft snow, Relon momentarily peers up at the statue.

"You mentioned these being sculpted based off of the Archons, right? Was that giant statue outside our home one also?"

Yes, just on a much grander scale. At the time of its construction, the sculptor insisted that they make one whose size would make any other pale in comparison. It was quite tiring though I had to admit that their loyalty was respectable. Upon completion, I felt quite honored with the end result.

"So this is what the Anemo Archon roughly looks like…"

Looking on, his hand slowly lifts towards the structure. Feeling an odd sensation resonate within, he answers the object's call. In doing so, his vision changes. As if having an out-of-body experience, he watches his sight go from him towards the path leading in the direction of the city. Like that of a bird, his vision rushes alongside the ground before soon reaching an intersection. Immediately, it snaps to the left, blurring through an open plain sporting a tree of abnormal size. Winding around more cliff faces, it meanders down a jagged path to find what seems like a blue plant with Cryo properties. Currently battling it; one Ganyu and Ayaka. Unable to respond to the sight, the vision instantly returns to the intersection now choosing to go straight. Eventually coming to a fork in the road, it passes by a group of houses of varying elevations before continuing on through a path sporting high cliffs to both sides. Eventually it comes to what seems like a winery of sorts. From a distance, Kaeya, Chongyun, and Rosaria can be seen engaged with small, gooey-like creatures. Again, the vision shifts back to the approaching intersection now breaking to the right towards the city. Flying through the empty city, the vision soars into the air to pan from above before returning to the statue.

As if tackled by his own apparition, Relon releases a groan shaking off his sudden daze.

"What the hell…?"

Are you okay, Relon?!

"Headache, ow. Confusion, very. Body, ow. I'm alive though." He answers slowly getting up, a breath of relief audible from the woman. "What the hell... was that?" He questions looking at the statue, its once mysterious being no longer drawing in his curiosity.

It is possible you caught a glimpse of the land. It is said that certain individuals who make contact are capable of seeing glimpses of the land or something more. Both why and what exactly that is remains unknown even to myself.

"A glimpse of the land? Wait, then that means…!" The image of the girls fighting surfaces. "They're in trouble… Ei!"

Go!

Face shifting from grim to focused, he crouches down. Mist permeating off his body as with a push, he jumps high into the air. Clenching his teeth at the dark thoughts looming, he shakes them away to land back on the path, static coursing across his person.

Chongyun, Kaeya, and Rosaria seemed fine with fighting whatever those things were. Ganyu, Ayaka, hang on! I'm coming!

Ganyu

If there was ever a time in her life to start fuming with complaints, it would surely be now. Spending most of her life in peace? No need. Becoming a librarian and secretary? Not a problem. Spending her free time with nature atop the ambient hillsides? Peace and tranquility at its finest. Becoming a lieutenant in order to stop a war? Maybe just a little. Falling out of the sky and suddenly being attacked by who knows what as they attempt to rescue their friend? Possibly. Becoming separated by both her friends and the guy she's gained a crush for, not to mention crash land in the very area where a Cryo REGISVINE is waiting for them? Oh yes, that was definitely called for! And the icing on the cake? The darn creature was the perpetrator behind the surprise attack, not to mention it's Cryo! The element neither woman are effective against! So here they are attempting to deal as much damage as they can for an opening to appear.

Running around the creature, Ganyu's eyes take notice of its appendage-like arm raise up for one to slam the ground unleashing a line of spikes. Rolling out of the way, she raises her bow for the other arm to come down, unleashing another wave. Clicking in annoyance, she is about to move when a "hya" from Ayaka sounds as said girl lands before her cutting apart the spikes.

"Now, Ganyu!" She calls, Ganyu nodding to jump off her back with an arrow aimed at the head.

Charging it with Cryo, the tip secretes a small blue hue before with more energy, it becomes bigger. Releasing it, the arrow hits the head of the creature before exploding. Smaller Cryo arrow dispersing around it as that of a shotgun sounds.

"Was that one effective?" The swordswoman questions as Ganyu lands next to her.

Watching its tentacle arms swat at the frost, they can only grimace.

"Our attacks are working but they're not as effective. At this rate, it'll be ages before we can vanquish this creature." Ayaka mutters to glance at her blade. "Everytime I get close, it just raises its defenses. If I could just somehow bypass it…!"

Taking aim once more with her charged shot, Ganyu fires for the ice plant to swat at it for another plume of frost to erupt.

"We can attempt to blind it's vision. When we do, you circle around to its blind spot while I draw its recovering attention." She suggests, releasing another arrow to explode.

"Understood."

Drawing back another arrow, Ganyu's eyes begin to glow as mist secretes from her body. The moment it swipes at the frost, she fires.

"Now!"

Hurtling towards the Regisvine, a large eruption of frost comes after for the creature to reel its head back. Rushing along the perimeter of the area, Ayaka's form shifts to that of a bundle of frost. Shifting to normal arrows, Ganyu fires one after another. Each landing their mark on the Regisvine's arms as it cries in pain from its swatting.

Now!

Jumping from her form, Ayaka bursts forth.

"Kamisato Art: Zanshu!"

Seemingly instantaneous, a single white slice at its frigid joint can be seen before Ayaka reappears next to Ganyu. Turning back at the ready, she takes sight of its arm drop with a medium-sounding thud.

"KRRREEEEEEEEEEEE!"

Wincing from the high-pitched scream of most likely agony, both separate as spikes of ice shoot up from the ground.

"Nice work! We're almost there now!" Ganyu calls out flipping over a spike firing arrows as she moves.

"Just a little more!" Ayaka exclaims cutting a spike for the regisvine's arm to appear in front of her.

Widening, she barely blocks as the force from the swing sends her off her feet towards the cliff. Crashing with a thud, she drops to the ground.

"Ayaka!" Dodging another spike from the ground, Ganyu kicks off a spire for her eyes to catch the arm swinging her way.

Raising her hands to form a circle of ice, it shatters as she's sent flipping back to skid to a halt. Lifting her gaze, her eyes widen at the sight of the regisvine's remaining arm shoot for the downed girl.

"AYAKA!"

As soon as she calls her name, the faintest sound of static rapidly increases with every millisecond to the adepti's ears before it becomes deafening.

"Come, Engulfing Lightning!" A voice shouts.

Snapping up to the opening in the ceiling, the sight of a familiar figure in the air sends a wave of relief through her.

"Relon!"

Halting its attack, the creature shifts up to raise its arm.

Plunge downwards!

"Say less!" He growls, his body flipping before he launches into a downward spiral coated in electricity.

Releasing a screech, the Regisvine's remaining arm glows a light blue before it unleashes a beam. Clashing, Relon's spear pierces through as the beam spirals around his form.

As if screeching in defiance, a greater power exudes from the creature for a sharp pain to suddenly come. Looking to the source, it finds a series of arrows lodged beneath its head. Lifting to a smirking Ganyu, it immediately looks back to the sight of Ayaka blurring across the ground.

"Kamisato Art: Zanshu…!"

Once again, it cries in pain as it reels its head up. The sight of Relon, the last thing it sees as purple envelopes its vision before an explosion of frost and purple electricity erupts. Raising an arm to cover herself from the residual frost particles, Ganyu's mouth curves upward once more to the sight of Relon and Ayaka as the creature itself fades into particles.

"You two alright?"

"Yes, I'm- ouch!" Hissing, Ayaka falls to a knee holding her side as Relon catches her.

"What happened?!"

"She took a hit from the Eegisvine's arm earlier." Ganyu explains having rushed over.

"I managed to block a majority of it but…" She trails off lifting her hand to show a bloodied cut of her attire. "One of its thorns… left a gash." She winces.

Widening, both focus on the wound for the sound of rumbling to catch Ganyu's attention.

"The storm's coming." Ganyu comments. "We need to find shelter so we can tend to her wound." Looking at Relon, he remains unresponsive.

Focusing on the color, his vision gains its tint before it fades to black. Coming to, he finds himself laid out on the ground. A bellowing surge of thunder off in the distance gains his attention as does an unfamiliar voice.

"All you humans are the same. Weak and pathetic."

Unable to make anything of the blurred image, his body soon collapses into darkness.

Shaking his head, his vision returns.

What the…?

"I can still move fine, Ganyu, It's just-"

"No." Both look at Relon. "Don't even try to play off a wound like that."

"But sir-"

"No excuses." He says putting his arm under her knees before lifting her up for a light blush to come in response. "Don't be stubborn. You're hurt and we need to treat that wound."

"... My apologies." She lowers her gaze.

"Don't be. It happens." He lightens up to look at Ganyu. "There was a small village on the outskirts of Mondstadt. It's in the direction of the storm but if we're fast enough, we may be able to beat it before it fully hits us."

"Okay, let's go."

"Hang on tight, okay Ayaka?"

"Make sure to hang on so you don't get injured, okay Ayaka?" Widening, she wraps her arms around him giving a silent nod.

"Alright, let's go!" Static coursing around his being once more, he turns rushing outside as Ganyu jumps from one stalagmite onto another after him.

Feeling the rush of wind against her form, Ayaka's mind goes back to a moment ago.

That voice again… The last time I heard it was when Lord Shogun saved me from Trishula… Just who was that? It sounded so familiar…

Holding him tighter, her eyes slowly close. Feeling the tug of his shirt, his eyes lower to Ayaka before up to the clouds now a dark gray.

It's going to be close… He thinks as the enormous tree comes into view.

Looking back, he sees Ganyu nearing him.

At this pace, I'll leave Ganyu behind. But if we don't hurry, Ayaka's situation will worsen. Think, think, think. What can we-

Halting mid thought at the sight of the slope leading to the tree, an idea hatches.

Ei, I'm gonna need your help.

What do you have in mind?

Remember when we went up that tree during our game of tag?

Surely you jest considering the girl in your arms.

Only partially. From this angle, I can just barely make out the fork in the road leading to the village.

Your point?

We're gonna make our own tree.

"Ganyu, hold onto Ayaka for a sec." He asks to hand away the girl before he takes a breath.

"What are you doing?"

"Trying my hand at making a shortcut. Ready, Ei?"

Yes.

Feeling the brisk touch of cold against his hands, he kneels down slamming the ground. Slowly, ice begins to spread around them before they ascend. Stumbling, Ganyu holds onto Ayaka as they pass the height of the large tree.

"Phew… okay." He breathes out. "I know this may be a bad time to ask but you're not afraid of heights are you?"

"No but why are we this high up?" She questions eyeing the distant ground.

"Simple." He points, her eyes taking in the distant village. "We need a ramp there. Continuing on like we were wasn't good so I thought of this. Think you can stretch a ramp this far out?"

"I believe so." She hands Ayaka back to him, mist secreting once more from her body. "Ready?" She gives a glance over her shoulder.

"Ready when you are."

Nodding, her foot taps the ice for a portion to stretch out. Angling herself slightly down, the ice slides along with her.

"Okay, our turn…" He mumbles, taking a step forward. "Instincts don't fail me now." Hopping off to slide sideways, he, thankfully, sticks the landing before falling in line behind Ganyu. "Hang on Ayaka. It won't be long now."

At his comment, the sound of rumbling surges once more. Taking notice of the weather in the distance, their eyes buck wide at the blizzard visibly rushing their way.

"The storm's getting faster?!"

"Look! The city!" In doing so, he's further baffled at the site of a large ice dome slowly encasing it.

"The hell?!"

"We're almost there!" Ganyu exclaims steering the ramp into a wide curve to avoid descending balls of large snow.

Glancing back at the now encased city, Relon can only grimace before turning back ahead. Whipping into the air, the two land in the center as snow begins to pelt them.

"Hurry, get inside!" Ganyu says already opening the nearest home.

Slamming the door shut, both breathe out relieved air.

"We made it…!" Relon sighs. "Good job, Ganyu." He chuckles tiredly.

"You… as well." She says catching her breath. "It… seems like we entered one of the larger homes in Springvale." She notes looking around.

"Well that's relieving to hear." He says inspecting Ayaka to furrow. "Wait. Springvale? How do- you're over 3,000 years old so of course you would know about the places in Mondstadt."

"Answered your own question." She smiles while opening another door. "I found a room. You can place Ayaka here."

"Roger. I'll be outside if you need me.

"Okay."

Closing the door behind him, he gives out another breath.

We managed to get out of that ordeal in the nick of time. He thinks, peering out the window at the raging blizzard.

Your quick thinking helped avoid any unnecessary setbacks.

It was a team effort. I'm just glad we pulled it off. Now I hope the others are doing okay. I saw them fighting near a winery but still… Taking a seat on a couch, his thoughts deepen. Why did the city encapsulate itself in ice? Is the malevolence reinforcing its defenses since we took out that plant thing?

Plausible. We may also go under the assumption that Eula Lawrence is within the confines of the city should that be correct.

If so, then that's where we need to go. Real or fake, we'll need everyone if we're going to mount an assault on Mondstadt. After all, that vision pointed to the city.

I am in agreement. For now, it seems the malevolence is remaining at bay. I would recommend taking this time to rest.

Feeling her soul fade, he stretches out on the couch.

"Duly noted."

"All you humans are the same. Weak and pathetic." The voice from his prior vision resurfaces.

Who was that? I couldn't make anything out but it seemed like I was on the ground. There was also a rush of wind too… All of my visions have been so clear so why was this one so blurry?

Hearing the door down the hall open, soon out comes Ganyu wiping her forehead as she too exudes a breath of relief.

"Finished?" Turning to his voice, a smile adorns her features as she nods.

"Yes. I've managed to stop the bleeding. She just needs to rest now." Tucking one leg under the other which hangs off the side, he gestures for Ganyu to which she graciously accepts seating at the other end as Relon sits up. "It seems relentless. This storm."

"Yeah? Does it remind you of the war?"

"In a way, yes."

"How so?" He arches a brow for a giggle to sound from her.

"This storm will eventually die out. So too will the war. No longer shall this conflict feel like an eternity. After all, I made a promise with someone dear and I intend to uphold it."

Feeling the slightest bit of heat elevate, he averts his gaze.

"Happy to hear." He murmurs.

Eternity… huh. Why does that stand out to me? Dismissing the thought, both fall into a comfortable silence. I hope the others are okay.

Others

"First we land in a slime field, then we, hic, encounter more slimes…! I'm gonna, hic… ugh…"

"Come now. That wasn't the, hic, ahem. Worst outcome. Now then, shall I, hic, pour you another glass?"

"Hmpf, keep it coming or else!" Rosaria glares to faceplant against the table.

Over in a corner resting his chin atop a hand wearing a bored expression sits one Chongyun.

"Of all places to take shelter, why did it have to be a winery?" He sighs, peering out at the continuing blizzard. "How did Kaeya even know where to find the hidden cellar? I hope the others are faring better..."

Relon

Looking out to the sky now having turned to night, a sigh escapes the boy.

"This blizzard doesn't seem any close to letting up."

"It's familiar. This situation."

"In what way?"

"Although it is reminiscent of the battles I've been in, it also reminds me of the night we first spoke. Limited movement space due to circumstances, the time of night, us… alone." She musters that last part out while twiddling her fingers.

He hadn't realized it but she was right. Aside from Ei meditating in his subconscious and Ayaka resting in the other room, there was no one else to interrupt them. The only difference being he was no longer bound in chains, much less tired or hungry. So here he was. On a couch… with a woman he nearly kissed. That wasn't his fiancé…

I should have asked Sara and Miko about the polyamorous relationship thing.

Wait, that begged the question of what he and Hu Tao were. Friends don't nuzzle the cheeks of someone supposedly engaged. So something more? If so, where do they stand? Are they the same as whatever his relationship with Fischl and Keqing is? Something less? Then where was that level located? A higher level such as with Sara? Now that he thought of it, he's had a memory of everyone thus far except Hu Tao! How could that be much less why that was the case? Because his mind unconsciously conjured her up in his mindscape? But then why did he also think of Shenhe plus have a memory of his past come up when they made contact but not him and Hu Tao? What made Hu Tao different from the others? Then there's Kokomi. How does she fit in this? For starters, who even is she? Maybe one of the others knows. He'll have to put that thought on the list of questions to ask later. For now…

How do I figure out a way out of this situation?

Looking back on what he can recall of his life raising Qiqi, one thing stuck out to him. After the murder of his parents, he didn't have anyone to teach him the art of "parenting" or raising a child. All he had to go off of such a skill is the experience he had himself. Attempt and refine. What didn't work at first, he tried again in a different manner. Cooking, cleaning, teaching. Once poor skills were redone in a way that would be both easy for his sister to understand and simpler in terms of grasping the concept for himself. With time, it all became second nature for himself and for Qiqi.

He, a boy no older than 10, and his sister still roughly an infant at the time being of only two years. An eight year difference between them. All he had was himself and her. No other family. Only some nice villagers that helped every now and then to give him tips. So he would do what he did best as an amnesiac. Go with what he thought to be the right move regardless of his supposed status relationship-wise.

"Hey, Ganyu." He begins.

He still struggled comprehending the whole relationship situation somewhat even after Sara's encouraging speech though he tried not to show it. Considering the look Miko gave them earlier, it was most likely clear both women knew he thought this. Neither pushed him nor had he bothered to further the topic as he felt he had enough information at the time. Sara, Hu Tao, Keqing, Fischl. It was obvious that those four sought him in a different light compared to Lisa and Beidou. It could be due to an age difference. It could be something else entirely that he was yet aware of. His time in that other plane. His plane. It allowed for other thoughts to surface. Such as his memories blocked by Ei on his own orders and the visions he kept having from both the sight and touch of certain interests; it all came from him.

"Y-Yes?" She stutters out, most likely caught up in her own thoughts.

His past self as if still clawing for some sort of freedom. His memories in regards to such things were spilling out ever so slowly. The more he interacted with people and other things, he was sure that this would come to fruition. Those four girls whom had been designated as "girlfriends" in his plane. It was clearer when he looked back on how they acted towards him that there was something more. The memories that resurfaced with their touch. All showed that each girl held such compassion that their feelings, the looks on their faces, resembled that of Sara just hours earlier. Hu Tao being the sole anomaly in this odd equation left much to be questioned. She was the only one to physically appear in his plane unlike all the others who appeared as just photos.

"Tired?" He asks.

If Sara is my fiance, then the others could really be close to that…

If that was the case, then a relationship with numerous people wasn't so far fetched.

"And thus was the start of your harem, teehee."

"Hmm, if you really must know… He simply questioned his relationship regarding everyone. You know. 'Status-wise.' That being him with numerous women, obviously."

Both the Hu Tao of his plane as well as Miko this morning told of instances where he was obligated to multiple women. Sara, Hu Tao, Miko, Keqing, Fischl, and even Ei herself. That was six women who each have shown an overwhelming amount of love, affection, and care for him in some way, shape, or form. Unlike Beidou and Lisa, he felt something more from these girls. A tug at his heart if you will. It would take a fool to not see it amnesiac or not be damned. Four were around his age and two clearly were not. How he had managed to do such a thing he wouldn't know. All he could guess if this guess of his were true was he was simply being himself. It was all he ever did growing up.

"I would be lying if I said no…" She eases herself rolling her neck.

Though that begged the question, was it admiration? Love? Possibly both? Or something else entirely that each felt towards him. Aside from Sara with her ring and both Hu Taos acting similarly, he didn't have anything else to go off of. Both Hu Taos cared in their own right. His plane's version was a sexual deviant that liked to tease and although the real Hu Tao hadn't done such to the same degree yet, that didn't mean she wouldn't in the future when the chance for them to be alone would arise. That could also be the chance for her to kiss him. Something her counterpart had done several times without hesitation. Were his plane and the real world's versions the same? Were the plane's mirrored into the image he thought of his loved ones as? Was it something else he hadn't thought? Once more, questions would come but for now, he had to do what he felt to be right. Tending to a dear friend.

"The storm doesn't seem to be letting up anytime soon and I didn't see a bed in any of the other rooms so Ayaka lucked out." He says sliding off the couch and onto the rug.

Quickly understanding the meaning behind his action, Ganyu raises her hands in slight panic.

"Please, you should be the one to take the couch!"

"Ganyu." He lifts his head with a knowing tone. "I wasn't the one to fight against a killer plant for who knows how long. Not to mention weaving through the air against that storm." He turns, giving her a deadpanned look.

"But-"

"It's fine." He assures with a smile. "Don't forget I'm a Demi-Archon. My stamina reserves are out of this world so you should get some rest. Back when I was raising Qiqi, she'd often occupy the bed or couch with me on the ground. It's funny that I can remember her either clinging to me one day or pushing me off and hogging it to herself the next."

"Still…"

"Seriously, it's fiiiiiiiine." He waves reaching for one of the cushions, placing it behind his head.

He doesn't have to look to the goat woman to see the perturbed expression adorning her features as he relaxes. With a forced sigh, she relents.

"Very well." The sound of her body touching down on the couch causing a smile to grace his own features. "Relon?"

"Yeah?" He asks, feeling his previous giddiness be replaced with incoming grogginess.

"Thank you."

Allowing her words to sink, he takes the chance to see Ganyu resting on her side looking at him with those colorful eyes. Surely she couldn't be referring to the couch and outside against that storm was simply uncalled for. Then…

"I already told you." He turns forward resuming his comfortable position. "Thanks aren't necessary for keeping a promise."

"Then you must also know some promises are broken, no?"

"I do." He nods. "Do you expect me to break it?"

"No." She answers truthfully. She doesn't know why, but she brings a finger to touch his hair, the subtle touch surprising Relon though he quickly relaxes from the tender care as her sole finger shifts to her hand caressing it with tender care. "A part of me was hopeful that you would keep it. I suppose another part of me was fearful that you wouldn't. I'm sorry."

"Don't be. Deep down, I think it's only natural for everyone to have that lingering bit of doubt in the back of their heads. I'm still struggling slightly to come to grasp this godly status I've been given and some other stuff."

"I suppose you're right. I recall from my last visit to Inazuma before the war broke out, the Raiden Shogun was a woman."

"Yeah. She's in here." He points to his head earning a confused face. "I know. It's weird." A chuckle sounds. "All of that will be explained once we save Eula."

"... Understood." She murmurs a nod, the sensation of his mane becoming oddly comforting to the girl.

"You're not going to push on it? I don't mind."

"I have no reason to nor is it my place to pry."

Allowing a hum to sound, he leans his head back meeting hers. Blinking at one another, a smile adorns their features.

"G'night, Ganyu."

"Sleep well, Relon."

His feelings towards Ganyu and the others would have to wait. They had a job to do.

Morning

Eyes fluttering, they reel from the sunlight entering through the glass windows.

Ugh, what time is it? Eight in the morning or so? He mentally groans rubbing his eyes for the link with Ei to resonate.

That is correct. Well done on your estimation. Also, good morning.

Thanks… He covers a yawn. I guess. And morning to you too. Where's-

Cut off, his eyes fall upon a sleeping Ganyu. Arms buried under the cushion, legs slightly pulled towards herself as if in an attempt to curl inwards, that face… Archons, that beautiful face filled with peace.

You're attracted to her.

Snapping from his thoughts with a jump to his feet, he eyes bat to the ceiling.

Can you NOT call out my feelings like that?!

I am simply making an observation. I could also make a comparison if you so desire. A woman laying on a simple couch as opposed to one held in chains. Yet, you seem to find both in those particular situations-

"AHEM!" He pants, his face a bright red.

Oh? Did I say too much?

A little. He eases himself massaging his temple from the incoming migraine. Why do I feel merging with me was just some ulterior motive to better get what I'm feeling.

I have no idea what you're implying.

You made a pause!

"Um…"

Hearing the familiar gentle tone, his eyes lower from the ceiling down to Ganyu covering her mouth as her gaze averts elsewhere.

Why is she blushing?

Possibly because you have "awoken."

What do you-

Freezing as it clicks, he feels the Cryo in him freeze his blood over except for one place in particular. Dwindling down to his lower regions, his eyes buck wide as his mouth quivers from the sight of his "manhood" on full display.

"OH MY GOD, I'M SO SORRY!" He spins in a panic crouching down. "Go… down already!"

"N-No! I-It's completely normal!"

"I WAS STANDING OVER YOU WITH IT PRACTICALLY ON DISPLAY!" He snaps with teary eyes. "AND YOU! WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME ABOUT THAT SOONER?!"

I assumed from your audible grunt, you were aware of her slow stir.

"WHAT KIND OF LOGIC IS THAT?!"

"R-Relon, it's okay! Just calm down!"

Ignoring the woman, he buries his head in his legs. The temptation of hiding under the table becoming more and more welcoming.

"I wanna die…"

I am not an expert but it seems quite a healthy-

"DON'T YOU FINISH THAT SENTENCE, YOU PERVERTED GOD!"

Hmpf. Rude.

Looking all around for anything to be of use, the half-adepti returns to take sight of the boy reaching his feet.

"Ganyu?"

"Y-Yes?"

"Can we just…" His head dips looking to reveal his still blush. "Keep this between us?" Equally blushing, the woman gives a small nod of assurance as he begins to ease himself. "Well, ahem, good… morning."

"Yes! Good morning! How did you sleep?"

"Like I haven't slept like that in a long time." He chuckles awkwardly.

"That may be the accurate response." She chuckles along while taking in the sunlight. "We've had quite a well rest considering it's eight in the morning." She adds stretching her arms for Relon to look away.

"I'm… guessing you can tell the time due to experience?"

"Yes… It comes in handy at times when objects such as a clock or watch are not at my disposal."

Feeling the last of his embarrassment peter out, his mind shifts back to the mission at hand. Seeming to follow his thought pattern, both head for the bedroom knocking before entering. Walking in, they find Ayaka sleeping peacefully.

"Everything seems to be fine. She'll need a change of bandages later though." She notes, both leaving the room to head outside basking in the daylight.

"For now, we should focus on regrouping."

"That reminds me. How did you know where we were?"

"Oh, I touched the statue of the Anemo Archon and just saw where everyone was. Pretty coincidental if you ask me."

"Interesting. They say certain individuals are capable of seeing visions of the area around that statue. Though no one has been able to ascertain why. It could be due to your inherent ability as a dual-vision-user or perhaps your recent status as the Raiden Shogun…"

"Whatever the cause may be, I'm thankful as I was able to help you two out." Nodding in agreement, she returns with a smile.

"As am I. You mentioned seeing us in your vision so did you by chance see the others?"

"Yeah. They seemed to be near a vineyard of some sort from the looks of it."

"To the west of this village, correct?"

"Yeah."

"I know where they are. Allow myself to retrieve them."

"Huh? Wait, I should be the one to go. I'm faster."

"Yes, but I have knowledge of the land. That and if anything were to happen here, I wouldn't be able to defend Ayaka as well given my weapon of choice. You are able to use Electro to accelerate your speed and Cryo for defense. Furthermore, your polearm can be held in one hand whereas my bow requires both. Not to mention-"

"Okay, okay, you win! Just… be careful, please."

Smiling kindly at the concern, she nods stepping forward. Turning back, her eyes glow as mist once again secretes.

"I shall return before you know it." With those parting words, she launches off a stalagmite into the distance.

Now, I hope that Kaeya and Rosaria did not take it upon themselves to drink during such an important mission.

"I hope so…" Shifting from where Ganyu was towards the city, he mentally notes that the previous dome of ice is no longer visible. "Looks like whatever was going on has subsided… for now at least."

Returning to the confines of the small home, he knocks on Ayaka's door.

"Come in." A gentle voice answers to his mild surprise.

Opening the door, his relief fully washes over him. Sitting upright with her hands resting in her lap, the Cryo swordswoman herself. Her robes sans her armor giving way to a new sense of beauty with the assistance of her hair free of its ponytail.

"Ayaka… You're okay."

"My humblest apologies, my Lord."

The mere fact that even injured, she bows in respect allows a chuckle to escape as he enters.

"I told you, Relon is just fine. How are you feeling?"

"My condition has improved greatly. I- Erk!" She winces holding her side.

"Don't push yourself, silly." He chides, pushing her back down. "There's no danger right now so you don't need to force yourself. Ganyu went out to retrieve the others. They should be back before long."

"... Yes, sir."

He had to stop himself from showing her his sudden annoyance. He understood that some people were more stubborn than others or that their upbringing simply made it difficult but he couldn't help but find the formality slightly irksome.

"I keep telling you there's no need for formalities." He forces the worry within to overtake swelling surge of irritation. "What matters right now is you getting some rest."

Meeting his steady gaze, the young Kamisato is about to respond but something causes her not to so hastily. Instead feigning ignorance to the side.

"I… suppose."

"You suppose?" He arches a brow for a nod to come.

Awaiting for her to continue, something dawns on him. Aside from Ganyu, he hadn't gotten the opportunity to speak one-on-one with her much less the others. Not to mention Ayaka was the only other one aside from Ganyu who was one of his "girlfriends" in his plane. He had to admit, she was beautiful. For some reason, he felt the same appeal as he did towards Hu Tao. Like her hair being let down and not in its usual ponytail. There was also a different "charm" from seeing her without her armor.

"May I… speak freely, sir?"

But before he could ponder any of that, he had to get her to stop with that slowly irritating formality. Though he knew she meant well.

"Yeah. You don't need to ask for permission. Seriously, just Relon is fine."

He could already give out a mental sigh at the girl pursing her lips about to rebuttal.

"But-"

"No buts." He forces out a chuckle. "Just because I'm the Raiden Shogun doesn't mean you have to act so formal with me. I don't want our friendship to come across as leader and soldier. I want you to see me the same way I see you; as a friend."

"As… friends?" She repeats as if in disbelief. "You consider myself to be one?"

"Of course. Why wouldn't I?"

"It's just… Our queen- I mean the Cryo Archon… looking back, I feel blinded to have not seen it…"

"Seen what?"

"The cold malice she laid upon us. Her soldiers. Not a care in sight nor ever spoken. Only her orders of absolution held any emotion. Either succeed or die. Those were our options."

A pit in his stomach began to form with every sentence. It was a hard thing to swallow hearing such facts from a reliable source. Given her words, the other Archons were either like this due to the Harbingers or because their personalities were just nasty. He had to hope that some managed to evade the villains' mental control.

"... Ayaka, can I ask you something?"

"Yes, sir- I mean Re…lon." Smiling at her efforts, he tries to steel his rippling nerves. "Do you remember where you came from before you joined the Cryo army?"

"Of course. I lived in a small village within a series of islands."

"Did it have a name?"

"Yes, it was called… It was called…" She pauses, her eyes widening as she leans slightly forward focused on her lap.

"Ayaka?"

"I… can't remember."

"Huh? What do you mean?" He could see the literal panic in her shaking eyes begin to grow by the second. "Ayaka?"

"I can't remember! My home, my people…! My… My…" Her hands lower as her frantic eyes become still. "My family…" As soon as the words part her lips, she lifts to the equally confused Relon. "I can't remember. None of them…!"

"Ayaka." He calmly calls, placing his hands against her arms. "Calm down. What do you remember? What can you recall? It doesn't have to be clearly accurate."

Seeming to be lost in thought, his words seem to pull the swordswoman back as her eyes fall on her lap.

"What I remember…? I can see myself growing up, walking through the islands, training in the way of the sword…" Her hands clench the sheets which Relon notices. "I can imagine learning about the war and joining the Cryo army. I recall meeting Ganyu and the others." Her once fearful confusion shifts to a scrunch as her teeth visibly clench. "I remember clearly our God sending us to fight against other armies! The once prideful army that I knew reduced to mindless savages!"

"AYAKA!" The sudden shout and shake from Relon causes her to finally take in a breath she hadn't realized she withheld from doing. "Easy." He says softly.

"How can you say that?!" Her eyes practically beg. "You don't-"

She stops. From her own words, realization dawns on the wry, supportive, smile Relon adorns.

"You've also…" Her words die out as he gives a slow nod.

"Welcome to the club." He chuckles.

"Lord Shogun, how did you do it? How did you get over such a phenomenon?"

"When I first came to, I went over what I could recall and really didn't linger on what I didn't. My priority wasn't myself but Qiqi. It wasn't until that night with Ganyu that I just… vented my frustrations." He shrugs, her own expression retaining its mixed conflict. "I'm in the dark just like you as for why you can't recall your memories. I'm hoping Miko and the others can shed light on that subject. If anything, there's one saving grace about your situation."

"What may that be?"

"You're not alone." Noticing her face shift, he continues. "Unlike me who couldn't recall much at all, you still have everyone around you. They may even be in the same predicament you are and haven't realized it yet. Being surrounded by those that know you when you don't know yourself is better than being alone. Take it from someone that knows."

He couldn't tell for certain as her face seemed to be lost in thought unraveling the meaning behind his words but considering it soon returned to her elegant smile albeit small, he had to guess his words helped.

"I understand, sir." Once again, his mind returns to the mild annoyance as he smiles back.

"Good, now back to the topic at hand." He smiles for her brows to furrow in slight confusion. "No more sirs, no more 'my lords,' etcetera etcetera." He points towards the young woman, the entire time he sports a playful smile as she blinks. "Just Relon. I want you to see me as someone you can confide in. Unlike the Cryo Archon, I'll be there when you need me for anything. That's for certain."

A part of him felt bad for insisting to drop all formalities but aside from it being a nuisance, there was another reason behind his persistence. If he was going to be a leader, he wanted to make a statement for everyone that he fought with. He doesn't want to come across as one of superiority just because he was lucky in being chosen as the next Raiden Shogun. He wants others that know and don't know him to see himself as one where they are all on the same foothold. As equals.

"Would… you go as far as to promise that…?" She lifts to meet his brimming resolution with hesitant eyes.

"Yeah." He answers with a single nod, his attitude lessening back to calm formality. "I promise, Ayaka. I'll even pinky promise. As both Relon Lucinance and the Raiden Shogun, whenever you or anyone needs me. Call out my name and I'll be there when you call." True to his proclamation, he raises said finger.

Looking for only a moment, her gaze lowers to her own hand. Lifting it, she hesitates.

"Promise…?" She murmurs out.

Initiating their hold, Relon nods in affirmation.

"Pinky promise. Now get some rest." He releases his hold, her eyes momentarily looking at her now empty finger. "We'll need you for the coming fight." He adds rising to his feet.

" My Lor- I mean, Relon…" She coolly corrects herself subtly shuffling in place.

"What's up?" He tilts his head sporting a curious gaze.

"I-If it wouldn't be too much trouble… could you… help me?" She meekly asks, blush visible as her eyes trail down to her side.

Why is she blushing?

"She'll need a change of bandages later though." The prior mention from Ganyu resurfaces.

Oh…

She couldn't believe her situation. Separated from the other and Lord- Relon. Not to mention landing in the home of a Cryo Regisvine. Their unfavorable luck was grim the moment they entered this world. It only worsened once she suffered this bothersome injury. In doing so, she became a liability that Relon and Ganyu had to take upon themselves to look out for. It frustrated her of this helplessness. What frustrated Ayaka even more was the revelation of her own past being blocked from accessibility. She knew not the answer but knew the cause. This war.

Giving a momentary glance upward, thankful to not meet Relon's eyes, her gaze looks to his focusing on the few medical supplies Ganyu had used on her the previous night. Now that frustration was being replaced with embarrassment of all things. First the words that flowed from his lips like a gentle river upon her ears to the warmth she felt in that promise. She couldn't hide her selfishness. Compared to her previous Archon, her worries couldn't be repressed. To think he would respond in such kindness towards her own question and become strict at wishing to be addressed as an equal despite his status. It left the girl in awe.

Now, here she was stifling her further embarrassment because for some reason she felt safe and reassured of his presence to ask him for assistance. She couldn't stop berating herself. Waking up, her wound had already begun to seep through her bandages. Her outburst certainly didn't help matters. Not wishing to risk waiting for Ganyu much less to try herself and open the wound more, given their talk moments ago, she felt attempting that call for help. With every second of silence added on, her regret steadily grew more and more.

"Okay." Like a blade, his calm voice cuts through her thoughts.

"Huh?" Blinking as he tilts his head, she conforms from her blushing mess. "I-I mean can you please repeat again, si- Relon?" Quivering lips ever so slightly, a soft chortle exudes through his lips.

"You asked for help so I'm going to help. Do… you not want it now?"

"Y-Yes! T-Thank you very much…" She nods for him to retake his seat.

Carefully turning her back to him, she swallows a gulp out of nervousness. Yet, for some reason she doesn't feel his gaze on her. Peering out the corner of her eyes, she catches his own averted to the ground.

He's purposefully looking away? Is… he being considerate given the situation?

Shifting back forward, the nervousness she once felt slowly eases as she disrobes the upper half of her body. Taking notice of her movements, his eyes finally lift to the sight of the young woman. For a moment, he doesn't move. His eyes tracing her bare back to land upon the bloody wound.

"Ready when you are." He calmly calls to earn a silent nod from the woman.

One by one, the bandages unwrap. With every lap back around, more and more begin to dangle until only the faint pressure markings that dug into her skin overnight remain. Reaching behind her back carefully, she brings her hair to the front exposing her back in full. One arm clearly draped in front of her chest to prevent any accidents of the sort.

She has really beautiful skin by the looks of it.

Why not tell her such a compliment?

Given our current circumstances, I don't want to spook her considering she doesn't seem as tense as a moment ago.

I see. I am surprised you're not mesmerized by the alluring situation presented before you. I am impressed.

I don't know whether to take that as a compliment or an insult. Besides, there's a difference between admiration and lust. At least in my opinion. My mind has treaded that line a few times since waking up on Serei Island, but things haven't escalated out of hand yet. I'm pretty sure any man would feel as privileged as I do right now, much less would be absolutely losing it on the inside. Although right now, Ayaka's wellbeing is all my mind is focused on. I can control myself when I'm calm and collected. Just not when stuff like that comes out of nowhere.

Hmm, I see. I shall make a note of that for future reference.

Wait, what future reference? He asks only to mentally sigh in dismay as their link ceases.

Looking at the partially bloody wound along the left side of her breast, the image of the Regisvine comes back to mind.

"Sorry, Ayaka, for being too slow." He murmurs, one hand beginning to dab the cloth against the wound as his other hand balls at the hem of his shorts. "Had I been faster, you may not have been injured."

"My Lo- Relon? May I… speak freely?"

Pausing from his cleaning, he gives an accepting hum before continuing.

"I believe you must think with an open mind." Furrowing at the comment, he continues his work allowing his silence to be her que to continue. "What I mean is… not everyone will always leave a battle unscathed. Possibilities we do not foresee can occur. That, in tandem with my inability to be stronger, led us to this outcome." Her defeated voice betrays the bright smile she gives him. "You could say I just got the short end of the stick."

Having finished the cleaning, his stupefied demeanor remains on Ayaka as something bubbles to the surface.

"I don't like that." He settles on saying.

"Neither do I. That's why I must continue to train and hone my skills with the blade. So that the mistakes made today do not befall myself or anyone else."

"I need to regain control over what I've lost. So that this open mind of mine won't seem so farfetched." He looks to his open palms.

"It seems we are in the same boat." She smiles, one much more genuine.

"Yeah." He returns the kindness with one of his own. "It would seem so."

"Here." He begins unwinding the new set of bandages. "I'll wrap from behind if you tend to the front."

"Understood." Moments pass until the Kamisato is back in bed, a breath of relief exiting her lips. "Thank you again."

"You don't have to thank me. Just doing what I can to help. Besides, I should be the one giving my thanks to you for the pep talk."

"It was nothing. Let us agree that we helped one another." She suggests raising a finger.

"Haha, fine. I'll accept that. Get some rest, okay?"

"A-Actually…"

"Yeah?"

"Could you… stay with me? Until the others arrive?"

Watching her form squirm, likely from nervousness at the second informal request, he can only smile before crouching down at the foot of the bed.

"It'd be my pleasure, Ayaka." He answers, resting his head.

Watching him situate himself, a smile, this time of gratitude, graces the young woman's demeanor as she lays back down. Her eyes remain on the resting male before the sensation of sleep begins to take her.

"Thank you… Relon." She murmurs out, succumbing to her fatigue.

Judging by how fast she knocked herself out, I guess that commotion regarding her new situation did a bigger number on her than either of us thought. Still, I'm happy to have helped her out as best I could. Because of that, she was able to help me too.

[Ayaka: Are you alright, Relon? I can skip my study session if you need me to. Don't push yourself and take it easy until I get there, okay?]

I think I'll be alright for now. I won't push myself if you don't…

"Right back at you..."

Ganyu

This place was truly fascinating. Even if it was in a world based on a figment of one's memory. It reminded her much of the adeptus' abodes she's ventured into over the course of her life. Especially before the war broke out. Vast yet similar to that of Teyvat. Even in this mirror-like world of Mondstadt, much remained the same as when she once traveled down these very trails. The paths, the vineyard, the occasional stream, pond, or other body of water. Even the identical locations of various plantlife such as sweet flowers. Then again, those didn't count considering they grew literally almost everywhere. Still, her intrigue remained ever high and commendable. Though her opinion on two recovering drunkards remained ever low.

She truly did have to hand it to her friends, even on a mission as dire as finding and saving Eula, Kaeya and Rosaria couldn't help but waste themselves of alcohol. With a passing glance behind herself at the two lingering behind supporting one another, she can only release an audible sigh.

"I tried to stop them, Ganyu." The youngest Cryo lieutenant also sighs next to her. "One moment we're fighting slimes, the next we're stumbling upon the winery when that blizzard struck out of nowhere. I'm still bewildered at Kaeya figuring out where the stash of the place's secret winery could be." Chongyun pursues, still in thought.

"He and Rosaria do have a 'nose' for the scent of good wine. Though I did not believe their claims to be so accurate…"

"We can hear you…!" Rosaria groans aloud.

A part of Ganyu wanted to further reprimand the duo like she had upon arrival but there was no point. All are alive and uninjured and that's what matters.

"After a little more rest, we'll be ready to brave Mondstadt before long." Kaeya says with his usual laxing bravado though the confidence behind it is lackluster.

Both Ganyu and Chongyun can only shake their heads before refocusing ahead. Ayaka, Rosaria, and Kayea were down for the time being. That just left themselves and Relon as the only capable fighters.

Pausing midstep, her irritation from her earlier scolding resurfaces. Peering back, her heterochromatic eyes meeting the three eyes behind her, her gaze on the duo hardens for them to halt clearly worried. After a moment, she turns forward increasing her brisk pace.

"Come along. We're behind schedule." She voices monotone.

"Great. Now Ganyu, probably the hardest person to upset, is now just that because of you two." He groans towards the older adults.

Hearing the three banter behind herself, Ganyu takes in Mondstadt to the side far off in the distance. She's seen both fight while drunk and it's not like their skills lose much effectiveness. If anything, their styles of fighting become more potent. Perhaps Relon would allow her to send the two off as a scouting party to bait any ambushes lying in wait. That would sober them up while punishing them severely enough.

Furrowing at the thought she dismisses it.

Relon wouldn't allow that. He was too kind and she knew it. It's one of the charms that made her develop such feelings of adoration for the male. She just had to hope that nothing would happen until their group was fully prepared to head out.

Relon

"What the hell happened?" Relon blinks looking at the two sobering adults slumping onto the couch.

"Would you like the truth or a fib?" Chongyun asks to twitch an irritable eye at the already dormant duo.

"I don't even know." He looks dumbly to shift over towards Ganyu.

It was so obvious she was scorning them out of disapproval or disappointment. It may be both considering he's never seen her wear such a judgeful expression. He honestly didn't think someone as kind as the goat woman could even make such a face.

Note to self; do not get on Ganyu's bad side.

She must have felt his gaze for her visage lighten in an instant meeting him with an apologetic look.

"I apologize for this, Relon."

"N-No, it's fine. Things happen. As long as everyone is alive then that's what matters."

"That is true."

"Speaking of alive…" Chongyun begins, the three turning to face the city in the distance. "Do we have any idea on the status of Eula?"

"Sadly we don't." He answers with a grimace. "Though given what happened yesterday and the vision I saw from the Statue of the Seven, something tells me we'll find her in Mondstadt."

"You're referring to that sudden blizzard attacking us." Ganyu quips for a nod to come.

"The blizzard attacked you guys?!"

"Yeah. Then the city became encased in a dome of ice. If there was ever a time to ask for a sign, then I think that was it."

"Looks like we have a plan. Storm the city, find Eula, and get out of this place." Chongyun surmises for nods to come from both.

"I'd advise everyone to rest up. No telling what'll happen once we step out there."

"Understood." Both answer as they split, Ganyu most likely going to check on Ayaka and Chongyun to sit on an empty chair to pull out his talismans.

Taking the moment to get some fresh air, he exits the residence. Peering on at the renowned city, the tether to Ei resonates.

The malevolence is shifting in the air.

As in its gravitating to a single point? You can sense that?

Yes. Be wary, danger lurks not just near the city but all around. The city shall be the last that stands in our way.

He already knew that the place wasn't safe but hearing it from her didn't make him feel any better.

"All you humans are the same. Weak and pathetic."

He couldn't discern much of anything at the time from rejoining Ganyu and Ayaka, but whose voice did that belong to? It was clearly a male but the tone he held was… condescending? It felt as though he was gloating full of superiority.

For a sliver of a moment, he feels the link between him and Ei seemingly tighten.

"Ei? Is something wrong?" Expecting a quick response as she's done thus far, it doesn't come until moments later.

Not long enough to be of any real worry but not as quick as he's familiarized himself with.

No. Stay vigilant, my chosen. She bids vanishing into the recesses of his consciousness.

Dismissing the odd moment, his eyes refocus on Mondstadt.

Eula, hang in there…

Later

Eventually, both Kaeya and Rosaria awoke practically brimming with a serious air around them. If getting drunk allowed for this level of focus, then he'd have to consider allowing them to do this more in the future. Organizing the remaining talismans, Chongyun stacks them neatly before placing them away. A single nod from the young Cryo-user tells Relon what he needs to know. On his left; Ganyu. Hovering atop her hands, a spherical ball slowly rotating.

"What's that, Ganyu?"

"This? It's just a small Cryo pearl. I do this whenever I am deep in thought over something. You could say it contains my nerves so that even if they go all over the place, they have no way of escaping. If that makes sense." Nodding in understanding, his eyes shift to the bedroom's door.

The only one left now was-

"My apologies for the delay."

From said door, all turn to the lone swordswoman depart clad in her battle attire once more.

"Are you sure you're fit to fight?"

"Yes. On my honor as a Kamisato, I will not overexert myself to a dangerous risk."

He knew what she was saying and he was certain everyone else did too. She was going to do everything in her power regardless of the consequences until such dangers are raised to said heights. A part of him wanted to scold her for the brash undercover behavior but taking a moment to think, he knew he'd do the same if their roles were reversed. All he could do was hope for the best.

Relenting with a nod, he gazes to everyone. Determination etching itself across each face.

"Let's go. Eula's waited long enough."

"RIGHT!"

Above!

Touching the dirt ground, his eyes snap upward. Volleys of ice-like balls descending towards them. About to act, Kaeya blurs forward materializing his sword to coat it in a shimmering glow before thrusting it forward. From the tip spews a horizontal shield of ice. Hearing only the sounds of the pelting ice bombard the shield, Relon's eyes notice the shattered particles glisten to the ground.

Relon! Snapped from his gaze, he leans forward kicking off and under the shield.

"Move!" He orders taking sight of several blue flowerlike monsters similar to the Regisvine albeit much smaller. "Stay close to one another as we make our way to the city!"

Running close behind on his left, Ayaka and Kaeya. To his right, Rosaria and Chongyun. Bring up the rear, Ganyu.

Taking in the large horde of plants, the six spread out.

"Allow me, Princess." Kaeya remarks blurring through one after another to skid to a halt. "Don't want you pushing yourself." He continues as said girl whirls past him to slide to a halt sheathing her blade as the plants are cut several times before vanishing.

"I am not the type of princess who needs protecting." She smiles for both to push on.

"Nrgh!" Chongyun grits blocking a barrage of seed-like bullets.

From the air overheard, Rosaria twirls landing with her polearm embedded in the head of one before whipping it around her side to decapitate another plant.

"Don't just stand there and take the pummeling." She scoffs.

"Hiya!" She shouts striking a plant having appeared behind her.

"The same goes for you!" He retorts. "I wasn't just standing. I was expecting you to cover me. The same as I did you. Less barking, more fighting!"

"You always have an excuse!"

Watching as a group of flowers take aim, Relon is about to call on Ei only to notice Ganyu leap overhead unleashing a charged shot. Zooming towards a flower creature in the center, a cluster of smaller Cryo arrows disperse stunning the group.

"Relon!"

"Thanks for the setup! Ei!"

Heeding his call, the brilliant energy output pours into his body as the enemies begin to move slower. Taking a single step, he blurs across the trail to appear in front of a recovering plant, he reels back a fist coated in static. Thrusting it forward, the creature gives a shrill cry as it's knocked towards the center plant before an arc of electricity arcs between the creatures in rapid repetition before with a final crack they all explode into particles.

Adrenaline at work, his mind takes in the numerous other creatures ahead to look at the shoreline where the city lies. Narrowing, he needs only a single-second nod from Ganyu to act.

"Go! We'll rendezvous at the city's bridge!"

Bursting to a dead sprint, his eyes go to the nearing cliff. Widening as the familiar dome of ice begins to rise, his pace quickens. Wordlessly, the frigid touch Ei introduced earlier returns in his legs. Touching the edge, he hunkers down to shoot off a stalagmite of ice high into the air like a rocket. Clearing the water with ease, his arm reaches for the ledge to narrowly miss as the dome continues to rise upwards.

"Oh no you don't!" Feeling the cold resonate throughout his body, a platform extends halting his descent.

Acting as a foothold, a surge of frigid air wraps around him as he launches up veering over the curving dome. Touching down, his body rushes for the center's hole becoming smaller.

Come on! Let me make it in time! Leaping for it, his hand narrowly grabs the closing gap to pull himself through.

Descending through the air, his eyes take in the Anemo Archon's home. Flipping off of a roof, he lands before a fountain of water.

"So this is the City of Freedom… Mondstadt."

Streets filled with cobblestone as far as the eye can see, all around lies numerous windmills of varying sizes. Seeming to be set apart by two sections, the lower seems that of a market and housing district with the upper holding what seems like structures for that of nobility or some other sacred group.

The city where the Anemo Archon reigns. I can understand its title much more as opposed to looking from a distance much less images from photos. The renowned breezes that carry the scent of its dandelions to the very architecture used as a representation of what the people wish for the most. Each and every trail, however meticulous, was thoroughly thought over in the crafting of what we stand in.

"Sightseeing will have to wait. Right now, we need to find Eula and reconvene with the others. Can you sense her?"

Hmm… No. The malevolence is too heavy to sense any presence.

"Then it looks like we'll be doing things the old fashioned way. Let's hurry!" Feeling the core in his body shift back from cold to pure energy, he takes off.

Behind you!

Diving out of the way instinctively, he turns to widen. From the frost covered roofs, hundreds upon hundreds of bat-like monsters leech off slowly approaching.

"What… are those?!" He exclaims pivoting and dashing away.

Cicins. Cryo cicins to be specific. Quite tedious to hit with physical attacks. Normally they are often in small groups of three to five so this is quite a surprising number. Oh, do be wary of their energy attacks. They are not fatal but accumulate enough hits and you shall indeed be in for a difficult time.

Eyes taking in a cluster of shots fired, he leaps between the sides of two homes before landing atop the rooftop. Watching his pursuers ascend, his eyes peer over the city at specs of what he can only assume to be more cicins.

"At this rate, they'll surround and flood the very space itself!" Holding out his arm supported by his other, he feels a surge of Electro conjure. "Fire!" He shouts, an arc of electricity zooming downwards for some cicins to be hit while a large number avoids the attack. "Damn it! They avoided it!" He curses, leaping in the direction of Modstadt's upper level.

Those cicins also separated themselves out of the range of the electricity so they wouldn't be in range of its spread. Our enemy has intelligence.

"Tch. Nothing's ever easy, now is it?" Landing to be met with more energy blasts, he dives to the side avoiding the attack and landing on the cobblestone road to take off at a sprint. "We need to figure out how to hit all of these damn things!" Reaching an area overlooking the city, he turns to the sight of the endless cicins zooming towards him.

This dome will most likely obstruct any attempts at our power from outside.

So no lightning… Cryo isn't effective but Electro is. Those closer to the attack aren't capable of reacting in time to dodging while those further out are. Those cicins aren't that fast nor is their reaction speed anything to be wary of.

What we need then is an attack that will hit them regardless of whether they dodge the initial attack or not. A simple outburst of Electro will not be as effective because they can simply take cover.

Then we need to use an attack that can hit them no matter where they go-

"This? It's just a small replica of my Cryo pearl. I do this whenever I am deep in thought over something. You could say it contains my nerves so that even if they go all over the place, they have no way of escaping."

"Wait…"

That seems like a valid idea. Apparently Ei also saw his sudden flashback.

Just like her sphere, we're contained where we can't get out. That includes our electricity! Wait! Eyes narrowing, they find sheets of snow and ice covering a large majority of the city. That's it! Lighting a leg over the ledge, he jumps off towards the head of the horde.

"Ei!" Feeling his body surge with electricity, he thrusts a fist to slam into only a few bats as he drops landing near the fountain once more. "I need to freeze the entire ground!" He urges already in the motion of lifting a foot.

Cycling from energy to cold, he stomps. The cobblestone all around is soon covered by a coat of ice. Even the stone walls become veiled in the shimmering solid.

"Good!" He grins to jump from a barrage of energy blasts to land on another roof. "The houses already have portions of either snow or ice so all that's left…" He looks to a group appear on his side firing for his body to jump from roof to roof along the borders of the city. "Is to strike…" He leaps towards the upper levels before scaling the cathedral to stand at its highest point. "With all that we've got!" He breathes out.

Are you ready?

"Ready!" He answers, cracks of purple electricity surging throughout his body around him. "So… much…!" He staggers, his eyes looking to the incoming enemies to trace towards the dome's ceiling.

Crouching down, he vanishes. Left in his wake is a sudden boom. Halting, each creature looks around before their focus goes above. Touching down as gently as a feather, Relon looks to the shimmering lights that are the cicins. As if time itself has slowed, his hand reaches out. Arcs of static courses around his arm as his weapon materializes in a bright light.

As silent as the still air, he launches himself plunging downwards. Whipping his body in a rotation with the polearm aimed ahead, streaks of lighting begin to disperse. Unable to react, any cicin in his line of sight are minced and burnt to a crisp as the horde avoids the arcs as best they can. Striking the ground, nothing comes. As if delayed, a bellowing boom erupts much louder than the previous one as electricity discharges in all directions.

From his now kneeling position, Relon gazes up to the sight before him. The cicins' one flight patterns now in disarray, there is nothing any can do as they avoid one electric attack to be hit by another from a different angle. Bouncing off of the frozen ground and dome, the currents accelerate faster and faster. With every rebound, more and more bats begin to be vaporized.

Barely a minute goes by before the last of the enemies are vanquished. With a raise of his hand, all of the wild electric arcs are drawn back into Relon. With a snap of his wrist, he shakes off the tingly sensation to then absorb the ice off the frozen ground.

Your idea worked.

Yeah. Couldn't have done it without your help though so thanks, Ei.

It was our teamwork that achieved this victory.

Heh, you're right. Go, Team Shogun.

Hehe, yes. Go, Team Shogun.

"Now then… where's Eula?"

Stepping out of the small crater, he hops onto a nearby rooftop to scan the area once more.

Clink.

Head snapping on a dime, it falls to a smaller structure hidden in a corner of the city. It has the same green, slanting, rooftop and framework as all of the other buildings. Situated at the front of the building; several tables and chairs. Painted on the wood board, likely the building's insignia and name.

"Angel's Tavern…" He murmurs gazing at the name above a painting of what's likely red wine.

Clink.

Once again, another sound emits. This time much clearer from within the establishment. Reaching for the door handle, he turns to find it unlocked. Looking to his right at the visage of Ei awaiting with crossed arms, he pushes forward.

Slowly opening the door, the rattling of something being pushed gained his attention. Peering downwards, he finds the wooden floor littered with glass. So much that if the glass wasn't transparent, one could easily mistake it as the actual floor. Cautiously opening the door fully, he takes in the now discernable cavern.

A simple bar with plenty of various wines behind it, the place is what one would describe as small and quaint. Not too big for a population of a nation's size but rather specializing in momentous occasions. Aside from the broken glass littering the place, other glasses of differing statuses can be seen amongst the sharp terrain. Some without that sheen while retaining stains of whatever beverage once resided within their confines. Others glimmering against the dim lighting. While a select few seem to have survived whatever treatment has befallen the rest as noted by the cracks and portions chipped.

Clink.

Narrowing avoiding a glass soar his way, his eyes look in the direction to widen. For once, his eyes going huge is out of delight and relief and not of fear or surprise. Situated at a booth by themselves, a womanly figure with familiar blue hair. A jug easily meant for a family currently being filled in one hand and a small glass cup in the other.

"Eula!" He smiles rushing over, the sound of cracking glass drowned out by his sheer happiness at finding the woman.

If she heard his beckoning and the commotion following suit, then she clearly ignored it as without hesitation she downs the glass in one go. Shaking it to find the cup now empty, her eyes glaze over the object before she tosses it. Tilting his head out of the way as the broken terrain increases once more, he looks to the woman.

"Eula? Hey." He grabs her arm for the woman to grunt pushing him off. "Eula, snap out of it!"

"Go away…" She mutters.

"Eula, we all came-"

"Didn't I already state myself once?!" She strikes the picture down on the table to glare.

Right before his very eyes, her own shifts from the heterochromatic coloration to pitch-black eyes.

"Eula…?"

Relon, get away from her!

Too stunned by the look of evil, a sinister grin makes itself apparent as Eula thrusts a hand out to strike his chest. Even more to his surprise, his arms move of their own accord blocking the attack with his polearm. Eyes bucking wide as he gasps, his body shoots through the bar, then the tavern's wall, and then through the wall surrounding Mondstadt before finally stopping against the dome of ice.

"Gak!" He groans, slowly sliding to the ground.

Relon, are you okay?!

Catching his breath, his shaky hand reaches out for a heavy presence to enrapture his form. Forcing his gaze up, he takes sight of Eula sauntering his way. A dark aura seeping from her person.

"E-Eula…! Snap… out of it!" He breathes rising to his feet.

Behind him, he can hear the sounds of the others having reached the other side of the bridge. Giving a quick glance, he notes of them still engaged in combat.

"Eula is taking a nice long nap."The voice speaks donning Eula's claymore."Watching this host drown out their heart with alcohol is still amusing to watch, haha."

It was subtle, so subtle that even she would have missed it had it not been for their link. He was getting mad. Fast.

"Where is she?" He huffs with a glare, unaware of the static exiting his body.

"The woman?" She blinks. "Why, she's right here." She gestures at herself with casualty. "I've long since merged with the woman. I control her form within and through our power, she acts accordingly on the outside."

"Our power…? You mean the Harbingers, don't you?" He questions, his glowering face shifting to a full scowl as the clouds overhead begin to darken.

"Hmpf. Who else, Electro Archon?" She hisses readying herself. "My masters have a mission and I aim to please. Using this woman's body and mind is only a stepping stone in the grand scheme of things."

"I'll make you pay for what you've done…!" His free hand balls into a fist as his polearm radiates in correspondence to the energy output.

"Oh? Do try, boy. You've stumbled into my world. Here, I am the Archon! I rule all with the power I wield and not even another God can stop what I've become! Once I defeat you, you'll become my new host and I'll simply toss this tool aside."

BOOM!

A flash of lightning strikes for a rumble to sound from the dome.

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

One after another, the deafening sound, capable of shattering eardrums if one were too close, continues.

Evil Eula does not pay it any mind. Even if his power allowed for storms to form and lightning to strike, they weren't powerful enough to destroy her barrier. She was confident in that. She saw it through Eula's eyes. The Archon before herself was not at their full capabilities and she would ensure they'd never get there.

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

Furrowing her brows, her eyes look to the straight form of the male. His breathing had suddenly become erratic. The Electro exiting his body was nowhere near close to reaching her though that didn't mean she'd lower her guard. She was well aware of how fast the male was. He was an Electro after all. Yet, he wasn't even moving. Just huffing in anger.

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

Lifting her eyes momentarily to the dark skies looming overhead, flash after flash emits in rapid succession to the point of it bothering the entity's eyes. Looking back, Relon's head finally lifts to show his gritted teeth baring themselves towards said entity. Eyes filled with fury as his balled hand raises to the side.

What is he… Eyes focusing on said hand sparking with Electro, her black eyes can make out the subtle sensation and sight of Cryo. Don't tell me, he's…!

BAM!

Doing so before she can think it, the outer side of his fist strikes the wall with a deafening slam. Evil Eula can only watch in disbelief as from where his fist made contact, a small crack forms. Soon it spreads out. It's only now with the lightning having momentarily stopped can she take notice of other cracks all along the frozen dome.

"Impossible…!"

"You took over Eula's body… spoke of her… threatened the harming of life it… and had the gal to speak of myself as inferior to you!" In the blink of an eye, Relon vanishes into a bolt reappearing with his polearm already in the motion of cleaving Evil Eula's head clean off. "We are nothing alike! How dare you?!"

Having been awaiting this, she narrowly blocks as the force sends her back. About to retaliate, Relon beats her as he's already beneath her with a fist coated in bright electricity. Still reeling from the force of his polearm, she can only stomp her foot as all around pillars of ice, sharp to the tip, dive for him. Countering with a stomp of his own, the attempted attack shatters.

Widening, she can only notice for a single moment his hair flash white as his fist connects with her jaw unleashing a shockwave. Resisting for only a second, she's sent through the air like a ragdoll. Ripping through the city, the force from his powered-up punch bangs against the weakened down. Reeling from the force, she fails to realize the furious teen having chased after to appear above before delivering a devastating axe kick for the woman to grunt plummeting to the ground.

Landing against the top of the cracked dome once more, he blasts off for more cracks to spread. Passing the daze being into the crater, he reels back a fist now infused with Cryo as it becomes encased in ice. Reaching him headfirst, he face is struck as the ice explodes sending her skidding down the few stairs and against the cobblestone to become embedded in the wall.

"H-How…?!" She musters out with a wince. "Your hair… hasn't changed! You're not exuding that power you used to kill the general!"

"Fool." Relon responds coolly, making the entity's eyes widen at the unexpected response's nature.

Walking closer with every step, the entity finds their strength empty. No sign of it or her earlier bravado to be seen.

"To question the cause behind my situation instead of your own, it is… commendable."

"You…! What's going on?! Why are you-" Cut off as her eyes dangerously reach bigger proportions, they simmer. "You're not the boy." She narrows.

"Indeed, I am not my chosen. I am simply using his body to prevent him from harming you." The now Ei-possesed Relon answers, stopping before Evil Eula. "Had I not intervened, you would have perished. Along with the woman."

"Tch, why do you care? Who or what… even are you?"

"You have been inlaid upon your own construct and you find it fitting to question I?" Ei arches a brow. "Know this." She strikes a hand covering Evil Eula's face. "You are not worthy of our combined might. Now, give us the one we seek."

"N-No…! I won't… let you…!"

Feeling an unfamiliar sensation, Evil Eula grunts before she bellows a demonic howl.

About to fire an arrow, Ganyu stops as the cryo plants shrivel into specs of snow.

"What?"

"What's going on?" Chongyun asks regrouping with the others.

"Most likely what's happening over on the bridge!" Rosaria points as all look to the damaged barrier. At the front of the gate lies Relon and Eula.

"He found Eula!"

Disregarding the shifting storms, the group attempts to get through to no avail.

"Damn it, we can't manipulate it!"

"What's with them? What is Lord Shogun doing to her?"

"When you find her, let your hearts be one. That shall make saving the woman easier."

"He's trying to save her.." Ganyu mumbles in memory. "Everyone, please listen…"

Unknown

Coming to, his eyes slowly peer around to the emptiness that is the odd space before back to himself.

Where… am I?

As if in response, the sound of faint sniffling comes from below. Fixating his gaze, he finds Eula hugging herself.

"No one… wants me…"

"Eula…!" He calls, using the motion like a swimmer to propel himself through the transparent space. "Eula!"

"Go away… No one wants me… Not after what I've done…" Shards of ice begin to swell from the space around them momentarily stopping the male.

"That's not true!" His words cause the teary-eyed woman to look up to the sight of him maneuvering through the harsh path. "Everyone's worried about you!"

"But… why…? All I've done is ruin the lives of others and push those away…" Her tears begin to leak a trail as she buries her face, more and more ice obstructing her form.

"Eula, wait!"

Watching her descend further into the darkness, urgency swells onto a shard of ice to propel himself forward. Pressing his hands against the blocked-off ice, he attempts to push through to no avail.

"Eula!"

"Just… forget about me…"

"No! Wait! EULA!"

"Hehehe…" Whirling, he finds a haze of darkness loom overhead. "You've… heard her." The voice of the entity speaks clearly still beat-up. "Do as she says… and forfeit your goal, boy. Even as a God, you're alone, weak, and out of your element. Even if you defeat me, that human has given up. There's no saving her now!"

"You're wrong." A voice interjects for Ganyu to manifest next to him. "Relon isn't alone."

"Even if you say we are alone, we have one another cherished within our hearts." Ayaka speaks appearing on his other side.

"You believed you knew everything about the human soul just because you leeched off of Eula. Big mistake." Kaeya speaks.

"You're nothing but a parasite." Rosaria scowls. "Get out of our site!"

"First, we'll save our friend Eula. Then we'll purify you! You, evil manifestation!"

"You humans…! How dare you!" Stretching across the space, a jolt of static zooms forward creating a barrier of purple light.

Before them all, the silhouette of a woman.

Go, my chosen.

"Who in the world-"

"Come on!" Relon cuts the nun off refocusing on the task at hand. "Eula, hang on!"

"Remember the people that care about you!"

"Eula, heed our call! We need you!"

"Come on now, Lawrence, I know you're not one to sulk this long!"

"Snap out of it, Eula! We need you out here kicking ass like you usually do!"

Fingertips scrunched against the glass, his eyes remain unmoving on the small blue figure that is the woman. Slowly, he begins to seep through the ice as do the others.

"Eula!"

"Eula!"

"Lawrence!"

"Eula!

"Eula!"

Nearing her, memories surge forth one after another.

His awakening on Serei Island.

"Unlike those unchivalrous, I prefer a fair fight. Win and I'll hear you out. Lose, and you'll be given a fate worse than death."

His short time imprisoned.

"Threatening harm to someone simply confused over their very being? Spouting superiority?"

"... Your point?"

"Not very chivalrous if you ask me."

Even the aftermath of the life-threatening battle.

"If one of the others asked you to listen, you wouldn't would you?"

"Pfft, why should I?"

"I figured. If I told you something was obscuring your sense of chivalry, what would you say?"

"I would declare you a godly buffoon. Nothing controls me and if it did, I would clearly have some recollection, much less act differently. Yet here I am. Every bit as chivalrous as ever."

Emotions swelling to the brim, he roars.

"WHERE'S THE CHIVALROUS KNIGHT THAT WANTED TO UPHOLD THE JUSTICE?!"

Widening every so slowly, her eyes lift to the descending group.

"Wha…?"

"Yes! WHO IS THE ONE THAT WISHED TO END THIS WAR WITH THE UTMOST HASTE?!" Ganyu quickly adds.

"REMEMBER WHAT YOU STAND FOR, SPINDRIFT KNIGHT!" Kaeya calls.

"What are you babbling about…?"

"We left together because we were a family back then and still are now! So get off your ass and snap OUT OF IT, EULA!"

"You've taught me so much in the way of the greatsword and I still have so much to learn! PLEASE, OPEN YOUR EYES! DON'T LET THE DARKNESS CONSUME YOU ANY LONGER!"

"What's done is done! We can't go back. But that doesn't mean we can shackle ourselves to said pasts!" Ayaka smiles through her words. "WE'VE MADE MISTAKES, YES, BUT WE CAN BEGIN ANEW! TOGETHER!"

"So come on…" Relon grits, stretching his hand as close to her as possible. "And let's get the hell out of this place! EULA LAWRENCE!"

Whether it was the culmination of inspiration that brought her out of her self loathing or the warm sensation resonating from within due to their words that clearly came from the heart, she couldn't tell. What she could make out was the certainty within his eyes. No, not just his own but everyone's. Each filled with an unreadable amount of determination and stubbornness.

The very male she once brought in and enslaved was now saving her. Once more, she could help but chuckle at the irony.

Present

"AAARRRGGGHHHH!" The entity hisses, her pitch-black eyes returning to normal followed by the black aura being sent into the city.

Momentarily blinking into consciousness, Relon's eyes look to find Eula still lodged in the wall with the others having made a bridge at some point. Noting their hands against said ice wall, their eyes soon stir.

So that's how they joined us.

Crk.

Looking to the cracks thin out across the dome, his body shoots forward pulling out the still woman as the dome begin to crumble. With a forceful yank, both are sent to the ground as snow particles descend from the air.

"The barrier is down!" Ayaka says as the group rushes around the two.

"Eula! Hey, wake up." Relon urges, worry evident in his voice, as he shakes the woman by her shoulders.

"Mmm." She sounds from her throat, eyes scrunching for a moment before her familiar purple-yellow eyes. "Everyone…" She murmurs, eyes going from one to another, each greeting with a relieved smile, to land her sights on the one holding her in his arms.

"Welcome back, Eula."

"You're… Relon…" She breathes after a moment of thought. "I'm sor-"

"Hey." He cuts her off. "We're friends. There's no need to apologize." Eyes opening more, the now visible sun reflects from her now glimmering orbs.

BOOOOOOOOM!

"The hell?!" Rosaria hisses as all anchor themselves as a tremor erupts.

"Looks like we're not done yet!" He answers as all looks to the dark aura at the center of the city.

Unleashing a shockwave, Ganyu moves forward conjuring a shield of ice as the force hits.

"Then let's finish this and get the hell out of this place!"

"I concur. Lord Shogun-"

"Relon." He corrects with a knowing smile for Eula to momentarily be taken aback. "Just Relon is fine."

"Very well." She offers a smile of her own, carefully departing from Relon's arms to fully stand. "This is my world and therefore my mess." She speaks walking forward, arm out to the side. "I request your assistance in quelling this evil."

"Need you even ask?" Kaeya wonders with a sly grin.

"No but proper etiquette deems it so. Besides…" Her brilliant blue claymore joins the world as she assumes a battle stance. "After experiencing this entire ordeal, I'm feeling quite vengeful!"

"Eula's definitely back." Rosaria rolls her eyes though her attitude cannot hide the small smile adorning her face.

"Hehe. Alright then." Relon huffs, walking forward, stopping beside her. "Let's take this thing down!"

"UNDERSTOOD!" Donning their weapons, the evil entity's mist-like form reshapes into a humanoid resembling Eula.

"You ungrateful human! I give you power and this is how you repay me?!"

"Last I checked, I never requested for my mind to be persuaded by evil. The very thing one of my clan is responsible for liberating. Don't waste your breath. Only revenge awaits and you shall incur my wrath in full!"

"EUUUUULAAAAAA!"

The seven can only watch as darkness in the air seeps form all across the land and into the figure. Slowly, her form enlarges. Hunching over to end up on all fours, their savage hunger leaves a gleam in their eyes as they continue to expand.

With a swing of the arm followed by another, Mondstadt is leveled to an empty space within its walls.

"With just two swings, that thing leveled a city!" Ayaka gasps in astonishment.

"Good!" Relon responds. "The thing just gave us plenty of space to move!"

Taking in the entity having ceased its expansion, their eyes can only grimace at the sheer size. Now the size of some titan, only the entity's body from the waist up is visible with its upper body lodged in the ground.

"YOU WRETCHED MORTALS…! I AM… THE CREATOR…! THE LIVES AND MEMORIES IN THIS WORLD ARE… MIIIIIIIIINE!"

"Considering this is your world, just know it's a world none of us want any part of!"

"MWAHAHAHA!"

"Let's go! The others are waiting!" Relon orders, all seven taking off.

"KNOW YOUR PLACE!" The entity bellows slowly waving their hand ripping a gust of powdery snow.

"I'm up!" Kaeya calls surging to the front, blade already dawned in its shimmering hue.

Shield outstretched forward, a tidal wave of ice descends overhead.

"Hmpf!" Eula grunts stomping the ground unleashing shards of her own ice.

Like crashing waves, both sides pummel the other as specs of ice spew in all directions.

"We're pinned like this!" Chongyun grimaces.

"Not for long!" Ganyu steps next to the woman as with a flow of her arms, a second layer ice hards join in slowly overcoming the opposing one.

"NRGH! YOU ANNOYING ANTS!" As if having been holding back, the entity strikes the ground with both enlarged fists. Her blizzard and shards assault increasing in intensity.

"Tch!" Kaeya clicks in frustration to feel two hands halt his sliding.

"Don't forget about us!" Chongyun says.

"Our manipulation of Cryo may not be as refined but we can still use it nonetheless!" Rosaria growls as from the ground, more ice seeps into the cracking shield reinforcing it.

"I… tire… OF THIS FARCE!" Eula exclaims, her eyes emitting a glow as the ice on hr side increases its force.

"We all do…! That's why… WE MUST END THIS!" Ganyu adds, her own shimmering a glow of her own as their attack once again begins to push back the entity's.

"Ganyu, you have a vision too?!"

"Questions for later! Just… a little more…!"

"BEGONE ALREADY!"

Neither side wavering in the slightest, the ground begins to quake from the ferocity as with one final push, their attacks cease as a wave of snow and ice explodes in all directions.

Recoiling, the entity's black eyes lock onto the recovering group. Doing a quick count, its eyes narrow.

"FIVE?! WHERE IS-" Widening, their focus shifts upward to the sight of Relon and Ayaka rising higher into the sky.

You waited for a moment to exploit. Well done, my chosen.

"Ready, Ayaka?!" Said girl holding a closed fan radiating with Cryo energy.

"Yes!" Tucking her legs in, he pushes her off with his own.

"YOU….!" It growls, swinging a slow arm for towers of ice to launch from the ground. "BE SHEARED… YOU MEDDLESOME NUISANCE!"

"The only one that's a nuisance…" Ayaka begins landing on the spire running along to jump somersaulting over another. "Is you!" She exclaims snapping open her fan as from behind, two strikes of lightning strike emitting back-to-back sounds of shattering ice booming. "Kamisato Art: Soumetsu!" At her command, with a powerful wave of her fan, a snowstorm of whirling icy wind pummels forward.

Like gravity, the shards of ice are pulled into orbit around the attack, increasing its mass and potency.

Grunting as the dense blizzard strikes its hand, the entity's form hunches from the force. Cycling back to her blade, Ayaka lands along its arm running towards the head.

"INSOLENT MORTAL, YOU DARE… RUN ATOP ME?!" It growls Soumetsu slowly chipping away at the hand as if following its creator.

"Yes, I- erk!" Faltering for a single moment, the injury in her side flares with an uncomfortable sensation.

As soon as the sudden burning comes, it's replaced by that of a frigid touch. Taking that split second to look to the culprit, she finds Relon. His form crackles in static as he looks ahead. The hand touching her wounded side looking at its Cryo glow.

"I gotcha." He states cooly as time returns for her own eyes to return ahead. "Yes, we do! Kamisato Art: Zanshu!" Hunkering for only a moment, a line of both static and snow interweave like a loose string.

Reappearing sliding down the other arm, both look back in to catch the entity's eyes spew open black miasma. Before it can even react to the sudden pain, its repel against Soumetsu finally gives due to its weakened form. It can only scream in agony as the attack pummels its way through its arm towards its face. Jumping off as the entity uses its other hand to slow the attack, the two land with the others a safe distance away.

"That did some damage!"

"I don't get it. Why is Ayaka's attack doing so much damage?" Chongyun questions.

"Because it isn't just her attack." Ganyu speaks without looking away. "Remnants of Relon's electricity are swirling around, mixing with Ayaka's Cryo. On top of the entity's own power. They're causing elemental reactions back-to-back!""

"That's a thing?!" Rosaria bats an eye.

"Apparently! Now's our chance!"

"NNNRRRGGGGHHH!" It grunts, its eyes finally restoring themselves in time to hear the faint sound of shattering ice.

Looking in the direction of its foes, it takes sight of the airborne mortals.

"Ready, Rosaria?!"

"If I wasn't, you'd think I'd be hurling through the air?! Besides, I should be asking you!"

"I may not be like Eula but I'm skilled with a claymore too!" He retorts running a hand over the side of his blade as it's coated in Cryo energy.

"MEDDLESOME HUMANS!" Out of thin air, numerous cicins appear soaring for the two.

"We have incoming!" Chongyun grits, reeling his blade over head.

"Tch!"

"Kaeya, now!" Ganyu calls to said male already extending a hand towards the two as she aims a Cryo-infused arrow.

"Try not to get frostbite, you two! Glacial Waltz!"

Around their forms, frost from the air begins to harden as multiple icicles orbit both Cryo-users before shooting forward as the cicins fire Cryo energy blasts. Clashing, a frosty mist explodes.

On the ground, a purple blur of static races across the battlefield. In Relon's arms; Ayaka. Noticing the two, the entity roars in defiance as columns of ice erupts across the battlefield.

"Hang on!" Lifting off of the air to land on a column, he blurs off into another direction maneuvering through the swarming landscape until nearing the base of the entity. "Here's your stop!" He shouts, tossing Ayaka who materializes into snow zooming on the ground.

Looking to the familiar enemies, his hand crackles as he unleashes an arc of electricity toward the unsuspecting foes.

"YOU!"

"Hmpf!" He grins dashing away just as a pillar of ice erupts where he once was.

"His lordship made an opening!" Chongyun notes as they zoom in between the horde to realize the remaining count aiming all around them.

Expressions hardening, a series of glimmering arrows rush past their heads into the horde as shotgun-like blasts from surge one after another.

"Good save, Ganyu!" Chongyun grins.

Jumping out of her snow form, Ayaka having reached its back takes notice of Relon having zipped around from the other side. Nodding, both leap towards the other. Embedding his polearm and her sword respectively, they drag them along the back emitting their elements.

"AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!"

"NOW, YOU GUYS! END THIS!" He screams catching Ayaka with an arm holding her close as he adjusts her in his arms just as he lands to take off.

"You heard the boss! While its toppled over, make this count! Rites of Termination!"

Conjuring a large Cryo lance, she spins delivering a kick for it to stab through the arm and chest just as Soumetsu ends.

"GAAAAAAAAAH!"

Pivoting to land on the entity's shoulder, Rosaria leaps off a stalagmite into the air.

"Right! Spirit Blade…" Like a hammer, he strikes the frozen lance embedding it further. "Layered Frost!"

"NRRRRGGGGG! AAHHHHHH!"

Bellowing a mighty surge unlike any previously, the sheer force causes the resilient Chongyun to be swept away into the air.

"Chongyun!"

"I got him!" Relon exclaims careening along the path to jump catching the teen as they land amongst a pile of snow. "OOF!"

Wincing having taken the brunt of the landing, he looks to a Ganyu and Kaeya.

"Thanks for the soft landing, you two." He forces out a grin, their worries easing as all look to the spectacle.
Adrenaline pumping, his eyes goes to the large pillar before he takes off.

Using Chongyun and Rosaria as a diversion worked like a charm. He thinks, his eyes lifting to Rosaria.

"Wrap this up!" Rosaria grins her authoritative attitude.

"Hmpf, with pleasure!"

Kicking off one another, Eula beams downwards materializing her weapon.

"E-EULAAAA… LAWREEEEENCE!" The behemoth roars in defiance.

"I told you didn't I? Vengeance would be mine!" Similarly to Chongyun, her hand hovers over for its length to extend as it shimmers in Cryo energy.

"N-NOOOOOOOOOO! STAY AWAY!" Forming atop its body, a sphere of darkness mixed with Cryo.

"The hell is that?!" Rosaria exclaims as Relon drops her off.

"I DON'T THINK SO!" Said male snaps, bursting across the battlefield faster than before, urgency practically bursting out over the brim, gaining its and Eula's attention.

Twirling himself and the polearm, he jams it into the shaped object for it to burst.

"Ngh! There!" Relon grunts, correcting himself to slide to a halt. "GO FOR IT, EULA!"

"DO IT!" The resounding voices of their friends holler.

Nodding, her fierce gaze falls to the defeated-looking entity. Reeling her blade to the side, she cries out with heated fury…

"GLACIAL ILLUMINATION!"

At first nothing comes. Then, the entity's gigantic form is cut cleanly in two.

"She did it!" He grins a celebratory cheer as the upper and lower body begins to fade.

Landing atop its chest without a care in the world, Eula's eyes remain on the face as it is the last to vanish revealing a normal sized entity.

"It's not over yet." Ganyu voices stopping next to him to the male's mild confusion.

"All that's left is to deal the final blow." Rosaria voices as the group listens.

Walking closer, Eula discards her weapon into thin air as she looks on with crossed arms.

"I expected more."

The simplicity of her words causes rage filled within to erupt as the entity can only growls writhing on the ground in pain.

"Eula…! You need me! I'm the only one who knows you…! I know what it is that you want…!" It mutters, its own voice back to what it was while possessing the Lawrence.

"I don't think you do."

"... Tch! I'll make you regret…" In a split second, it shoots to its feet wielding a black claymore. "BELITTLING ME!" Nearing, Eula's expression holds firm as Relon's eyes widen to the sight.

Body glimmering a brilliant golden light, all goes yellow. Slowly lowering his shielded eyes, he widens at the crater Eula now stands in. The remaining specs of the entity fading into nothingness.

"Now it's over." Ganyu giggles as rays of light begin to shine over the area.

"Had you really known me, then you would have remembered what my ultimate craft does." She huffs, turning and departing towards the others.

Everyone under the control of malevolence may have an evil entity inside them. That entity acts as a parasite and feasts on their negativity, such as regrets, one harbors and exploits that. Something as dark as that doesn't belong in this world.

Unless we find a faster way at purifying the minds of those under its influence, it seems for the time being, we'll need to be wary of our actions moving forward.

Silently nodding, his focus goes on Eula. The entire time, the elegant woman sports a smile with eyes locked on him.

"Good work." He greets.

"Thank you. Though this celebratory victory is not mine alone. We all achieved this win."

"Yes but we also regained a dear friend." Ganyu smiles while taking his left side.

Now that he thought about it, she'd been doing that an awful lot now.

"I agree with Ganyu. We've been reunited. Now, we can move forward." Ayaka smiles, taking his right.

Inwardly blinking, his eyes furrow subtly looking between both smiling girls.

Something ain't right here. He thinks to shiver at the judgmental faces adorning Eula and Rosaria as Kaeya can only chuckle at the sight.

"Don't laugh! I'm innocent!"

"Sure you are, Lord Shogun." Rosaria rolls her eyes. "Totally don't look innocent with our girls at your side." She crosses her arms for the two to blush slightly at the accusation.

"Okay, now I know that one was on purpose!"

"Wait, I'm lost, what's being implied here?" Chongyun raises a hand.

"NOTHING!" All three exclaim.

As said three defends themselves against the uncaring Rosaria and teasing Kaeya, Eula's miffed look lightens into a smile.

"Everyone." She says gaining their attention, each suddenly becoming enveloped in a light. "I cannot give enough of my thanks." Skipping only a single step, his eyes widen at the sudden embrace. "Especially you, Relon." She whispers, all seven vanishing in an instant.

Inazuma

"It's been a few hours now." Sara notes looking at a clock with the rest either seated or standing around the barren room with Miko cross-legged focusing to lift her head as a smile graces her features.

"Hmm." She finally sounds since the group's departure as all look her way. "They've succeeded." She smiles, all shifting to the dark mist within the circle slowly begins to be cleansed.

Gathering around, each prepares to help in any way, unknowing of the status their new friends, allies, and most importantly, Relon may be in. As every second slowly passes, their grips on supplies and the urge to leap for increases by the second. After what seems like a millennia, all look to the unconscious group.

The first to act is Qiqi, her warm and happy smile racing to embrace the head of her brother. Joy evident in his promise being kept though she knew he wouldn't break it. As for the rest…

"Pfft! HAHAHAHA! Ahh, Relon. You're so boned." Beidou wipes a tear from her eye as Lisa can only chuckle herself.

"Well, at least none looks to be too harmed." She giggles.

"Haha! Ahh, Beidou, be a dear and fetch a kamera." Miko laughs. "This will be wondrous blackmailing material."

"Already am!" The pirate sounds halfway down the hall.

"Relon dead man." Razor shudders for Qiqi to lift up with a curious gaze.

"Huh?"

"No. Nothing, Qiqi." He dismisses not willing to look at any of the girls due to his poor choice of words.

"Relon's future seems quite foreseeable." Oz comments atop Fischl's shoulder. "And it does not bode well."

"Not at all." Razor agrees.

As for Sara, Hu Tao, Keqing, and Fischl… well, their flat expressions are void of the once worry they had. Within the center lies Chongyun Kaeya, and Rosaria respectively. Because, you know, they were next to one another when brought back so that makes sense. What doesn't is the cause behind Relon being practically dogpiled on with Ganyu and Ayaka hugging his sides and most of all, much to Sara's irritation, Eula, the cause behind their who mission, atop him.

"Brother." Razor says under his breath. "I pray for safety when you wake up." He says walking away with Lisa.

"If he wakes up~." She corrects for a shiver to run down his spine.

One thing hasn't changed. Relon's terrible luck remains the same…


Translation

Zanshu = Decapitation

Reviews

Erebus512: ,Violently plays bury the light*

It's Relon's theme, had to do it XD

MountainBookSage25: You sonuvabitch you made him Vergil Lancer edition

Damn straight! We out here!

Sagittipotenta: The amnesia trope is used way too heavily in this story for me, I found myself just skimming every chapter hoping to get to the explanation

Throughout each chapter, there were references to their meeting being when the cause is revealed. I can understand it feeling like a trope but that's literally the point of the story especially the early stages such as Book One. Not much can be done about that until the plot develops after the meeting.

T-B-R: that bath scene was great! lmao the storm apro\aching meme is so good.

The bath scene is a personal favorite and its a godly meme for a godly story. Yes, I'm stroking my ego. Lemme have this XD.

AndyKurosaki98: So the Harbringers had a hand in causing the war, interesting...

Yep. The big baddies are still the big baddies... or are they? Haha, goffiness aside, every character acts a certain way towards another and having Hu Tao (imo) gives the group that flare alongside characters like Fischl and Beidou. It makes for wonderful story ideas. And your prediction was right! Kinda. She can't exactly recall where but we shall find out! Relatively soon if life isn't mean to me. No promises, ehehe.

EULA IS THE DEFINITION OF VENGEANCE. Legit wrote that scene while listening to heavy metal nightcore. Ahh, never again.

A/N:

Ahaha, I love making my Relons suffer, I mean be loved. Huh? Who said that? Anywhom, hope you all enjoyed and please leave your thoughts. Always eager to read them. Stay safe. Shinn, out.