Published: 02/21/21
Act I - Spirit of Adventure
CHAPTER II
Golden Harbor
FeaR.
Sounds of battle could be heard echoing across the land, the lands of the Mare Jivari. A desolate place, what trees did grow were dead, the dirt was dark as the night and the skies are brimming with black clouds. The bodies of adepti disciples and humans littered the battlefield; their bright complexions had become dingy and faded, with gray weathered hairs and eyes glazed and unresponsive. Farther out beyond the fallen bodies were warriors that were still alive, still continuing the fight.
A nightmarish enemy had formed a frontline, they had long, wild black hair, red eyes, and from time to time they would snort releasing black smoke. Demons. Remnants of old grudges and hatred by the fallen gods of Teyvat. Their solemn desires and abhorrent ambitions now manifested into beings of darkness and horror.
On the other side of the line, brave souls of the millelith and fierce disciples of the adepti formed their tight ranks, each wielding spears and shields, while the Vision wielders brought up the rear, their weapons gleaming with elemental energy prepared to unleash a spell at a moment's notice.
The demonic foes stamped their feet on the ground roughly, the ground thundered and rumbled, they shriek and snorted violently – each of them ready to charge forward and fight their enemy.
Just then the dark clouds overhead parted and revealed a shining full moon. Atop a massive cliff, a lone adeptus looked over the army of allies staring down the evil creatures. Standing in a graceful yet rigid pose was a beautiful young woman, her long blue hair flowed flawlessly in the windless land. But the most noticeable trait was the pair of horns, proudly displayed on her head. Her lilac eyes scanned over the battlefield, when she spotted the lifeless bodies of countless humans behind the evil demons she bit her lip, biting back tears of sadness. Ganyu turned to her army, the look in her eyes changed from sadness to fierce anger.
A rare commodity, but a necessary one. Days of peaceful nights and aimless walks were over. Tis an hour of war.
"Brave warriors of Liyue, we must not dishonor the sacrifice of our valiant brothers and sisters, if we do not stop the Demons here then they will be free to wreak havoc on all of Teyvat!" Ganyu glides down from her position and hovered over the frontlines.
"At all costs, we will end this blight before it begins! Fear not, I will battle beside you, even if it costs my life I will see you all return home as heroes!" she announced. The soldiers whooped and cheered, the Vision wielders released a few sparks of elemental light that exploded like fireworks.
Some of the Demons started to smile wickedly as if they couldn't wait to prove the Adepti wrong.
"FOR TEYVAT, CHAAAAAAARRRRGE!" Ganyu shouted in a fierce warcry.
Ganyu's cavalry galloped forward, the Demon army also charged forward. Ganyu landed at the front of the charge with her Amos' Bow pointed forward. Her bow's horn started to glow with blue energy, spiraling around the arrow she quickly drew and engulfing it with pure Cryo energy, she kept charging it more and more. With a calm breath, she let her arrow loose. Ganyu's attack smashed through the Demons' ranks, they flew through the air like rag dolls letting out pained growls. Ganyu ascended into the air at a rapid pace and used her glider to keep balance.
"Disciples, release!" Ganyu fired a sphere of condensed elemental power down on the Demons, at the same time the Disciples fired a barrage of elemental energy spheres. Ganyu's attack hit first, a giant explosion of pure Cryo power decimated the Demons, the barrage then followed with multicolored explosions blasting away at the Demons. The front warriors then swooped in and skewered the Demons with their spears, upon contact they disintegrated into a puff of smoke that was carried off by the absent wind.
Those with shields advanced in a phalanx formation, mowing down any remaining Demons who managed to escape the onslaught. Even after taking so much punishment, the Demons continued to fight on, punching at the shields, biting at the heads of the millelith who would leave formation down. Ganyu would use her Celestial Shower attack every so often, and in between unleashed Cryo energy blasts at any Demon that dared to end the life of any of her soldiers.
Ganyu was elated, the battle was faring well for her side, and even though the Demons continued to mindlessly fight they were still being forced to fall back. It was at this same time that Ganyu began to feel anxious.
I don't understand, thought Ganyu. Xiao said that the Demons were awakening and that I was the only one who could intercept them at this strategic point. But this whole situation…They fight, and fight, they show no signs of coordination nor do any of them show signs of leadership? So how did they release themselves?…!
Just then a great and powerful force weighed down upon all, Ganyu was having trouble staying in the air and used her own Adepti art to stay afloat. Unfortunately, the great power made all the elemental barrage plummet to the ground like thousand-pound stones. The Demons, unaffected by the powerful force, pounced on the distracted warriors. The Demons surrounded the fallen warriors, when they opened their mouths a kind of wispy ghost-like light started to fly into their mouths and starts to consume the wailing souls of the unfortunate victims. The fallen humans screamed and pleaded, but the Demons fed and fed till their bodies went limp, their hairs turned gray, and eyes glazed over, white and lifeless.
"NO!" shouted Ganyu. "I won't stand for –!"
Ganyu froze as she saw thousands of violent orange lights erupting from the horizon. They streaked like shooting stars across the sky, arching down to their location. "Retreat…everybody…RETREAT NOW!"
But it was too late, the beams of light found their mark and rained down upon the battlefield, Ganyu tried to dodge them, her wings getting singed at the edges. One of the beams was about to hit her, but Ganyu quickly created a Cryo flower barrier and poured as much power into it as she dared. The beam smashed against her barrier, Ganyu was surprised at how strong the beam was, it took all her concentration just to keep it from shattering. In the end, the beam slammed Ganyu into the ground creating a massive explosion from the collapse of her barrier.
It was quiet, very, very quiet. Ganyu, lying in a crater and half-conscious, crawled out of the crater. Inch by inch she crawled, her body ached, her adeptal energy nearly depleted, but still she crawled forward, hoping that maybe some of her soldiers were still alive. She was wrong…
The battlefield was devastated; Demon bodies along with warriors alike were strewn about, motionless, and unresponsive.
"How…how can this be…" whimpered Ganyu in lament. She stood up, wobbling a bit before finding her balance.
Ganyu then looked to the horizon and gasped as thousands upon thousands of red eyes gleamed in the distance trailed by a giant dust cloud. Ganyu furrowed her brow; she stomped her leg in defiance into the ground firmly strengthening her stance. She flared out Amos' Bow and her bow's horn glowed with power.
"For the honor of my fallen soldiers I will fight till my last breath," proclaimed Ganyu, steeled both her soul and spirit for this one final confrontation.
"Foolish half-breed, there is no need for this show of heroics..." The mysterious voice echoed through the empty planes, Ganyu whipped her head in all directions, trying to determine the source of the voice. "I must admit your bravery is to be commended… but you see it is a wasted effort, as powerful as you are you're not strong enough to stop me…"
"Who are you? Show yourself, coward, are you afraid to face the Wrath of the Rock?! Rex Lapis bless me, I shall not waver that easy!"
"Oh Ganyu, I'm right beside..." Ganyu turned to the left, and what she saw froze her heart with fear, "You…!"
The Tianshu felt the days nearing his end, and this day wasn't anything different.
His daughter came up to him this morning, which was a surprise of itself, with a look of urgency. Huixin, even at her young age, was a prideful child. Considering that Ganyu took her under the half-adepti's wings only a year ago was a proud moment for a man like him. A happy father. But in recent months, his daughter slowly moved out of his life, so it was a surprise when she would even speak to him that morning.
Ganyu was late. That alone could bring alarm bells for the Qixing. She was never late, not in her long life of being the General Secretary for the Qixing. The Tianshu withheld himself to do anything rash, but when push comes to shove all will learn not to earn the ire of the Seven Stars of Liyue. Tianshu will remind such folks of their unacceptable acts.
But he was confident that Ganyu was just lost, as she always had been when she takes naps. Times of Ganyu walking back at the Yujing Terrace with a look awkwardness and embarrassment that Tianshu would always treasure. He was sure to tell tales to Huixin when he had the chance.
All of the Liyue Qixing know the abode of Ganyu, as per business and official visits warrant. But only the Tianxuan and Tianshu visit by personal standards. Ganyu's qingxin flower tea was atrociously good! Reasonable excuses to visit were common between them.
Knocking on the smooth door, Tianshu heard a crash and a yelp. Moaning in pain, Ganyu herself quickly opened the door and was startled to find him standing there.
"U-uncle Tian? What are you doing up so early?"
He resisted to perked his aging brow higher than it should have, and replies, "Ganyu, do you know what time it is?"
"Well, yeah," Ganyu shrugged in a tired manner. "By the placement of the sun, it should be- !?"
The half-qilin stumbled when her lilac eyes stared at the sun, at its highest peak. Her mouth like a gaping fish, Tianshu chuckled heartily. He knew that Ganyu might have been fine, if not a bit overworked. But this never happened before. He narrowed his eyes when Ganyu tried to come up with an excuse.
"What? It shouldn't be... My internal clock should've awoken me long ago!"
"Well, it didn't," Tianshu said, and helplessly shrugged as well. "And now, my daughter is off her wits and was ready to call an emergency meeting. Don't worry, I've convinced the Qixing that no such thing was needed."
Tianshu immediately followed up his last sentence quick when he saw the poor woman ready to cry in dismay. He knew that Ganyu needed some time off, but he really wouldn't know much about Adepti as much as the next guy. The Secretary of the Qixing was the only adepti in the city, as much as he knows. To be honest, he and the other Seven Stars wouldn't know much as they were not keen to privy the affairs of the adepti.
Not that anything was wrong with that, it's just best to respect the two different worlds. Both the Qixing and the adepti were made by Rex Lapis to the benefit of the people of Liyue. But Ganyu was in a precarious position. Her adepti side urges her to see the city of Liyue to prosper, but her human side convinced her to do it the human way.
And so, the administration of Liyue falls to the hands of a trusted adepti. But it would seem even adepti has limits.
Seeing the woman calm down, it was best to settle this slowly. "As well as not make a big deal out of this, the Qixing also anonymously voted to give you this day to spend it how you wish. And no, there would be no activity that relates to the governance of Liyue. If you are adamant enough, you are barred from entering the terrace until the next dawn, understood?"
Even if the General Secretary of the Qixing was an adeptus, the Seven Stars still hold more power than her. Ganyu was well-liked and heavily respected, some even in silent awe and worship, he could count his daughter as one of them. Oh, the many nights he tried to convince Huixin not to buy another doll designed after Ganyu was another treasured memory.
People at his age really liked to look back, huh?
"That's not fair!" Ganyu tried to protest, involuntarily forcing her fatigued form to obey her. "It was only a morning late! I can catch up on the rest of the work this afternoon. I promise this won't happen again!"
"No," Tianshu hastily denied, his long arm waving to the side, showing his distaste. "In fact, you'll be accompanying me at lunch. You're not the only one having some free time, that and I wish to try out that sea-side view teahouse."
The horned woman wanted to protest more, and she would not hesitate if it were not Uncle Tian be the one to put his foot down. Ganyu learned at his younger years that he was stubborn as a goat. An old goat.
Ignoring the glare she gave him, Tianshu was more satisfied than terrified. He knew Ganyu can be scary, but not threatening. She wouldn't hurt another human unless if they were to readily harm her. They were those who tried, Ganyu dealt with them with merely a slap on the wrist. When he heard as to what had happened, Tianshu "dealt" with them a far worse fate.
A dozen men slept with the fishes that night.
"Fine," she grunted in irritation, which surprised him. Tianshu knows Ganyu won't hold a grudge, but that angered tone in her voice said otherwise.
Now that he thought about it, he noticed Ganyu's disheveled hair and subtle dark lines beneath her eyes. It was rare for the half-Adeptus to look tired or dispirited. Something must've happened then. Maybe a cup of tea and a refreshing lunch might prove to render that.
An hour passed as he awaited Ganyu at the teahouse. The open balcony was as advertised, a beautiful view of the scenic harbor and the fresh and salty air of the sea. As one of the most influential merchants in Liyue, his hand at governing the fishing trade made him appreciate the ocean breeze and the way it calms his nerves. Administrating every single detail on the trade business in dealing fish was getting hard, especially when he is now in his twilight years.
Maybe one day he would spend the remainder of his days just simply fishing by the harbor and market. Tianshu wouldn't know the future, but he had a gut feeling that he would be able to live a decade more. Yes, leaving his daughter alone was a painful thought to him, especially when his wife perished merely a few years ago. Tianshu was confident that Ganyu could look after Huixin, but a father worries nonetheless.
Speaking of worries;
"You're late. Again."
Ganyu couldn't bring herself to bear looking at him, and as expected even she was troubled here. He believed that Ganyu would pick herself up when she had finally awoken from her mysteriously long slumber but was sorely mistaken. She was in her usual outfit, but the lines and bends to her clothes meant that they were not taken cared of. Highly unusual, indeed. And troubling too, considering her longing look at the bright harbor.
Simple tea and a vegetarian meal were for Ganyu, and a qingce stir fry for him. How odd, it would be Ganyu who would start conversations, even if it was business-related. Her somber figure just pokes and played with her food, not even acknowledging the poor old man beside her. How rude.
"Do you know of the place called the Mare Jivari, Uncle Tian?"
Unusual way start to the conversation, but one Tianshu will take. But still... Why that place? He heard of the place alright, mostly those from Natlan. As their lands were very close to that nightmare of a place. Adventurers losing their way was a (sadly or pathetically) common thing, but tales of lost echoes and horrific voices were no exaggeration. Especially of how many people lost their marbles after going to that horrid place. Normally, it would just be brushed off, but the massive amounts of people with the same stories and accounts were no fantasy, as much as he wished.
One was just a lie, two a coincidence, three a merit, if more- the gruesome truth.
"The Mare Jivari, a place cut off from the rest of Teyvat, a place where the sun never shines," Uncle Tian gravely replied, his quivering voice made Ganyu replay the scene of carnage once more. "Eternal rain of ashes and fire, and clouds filled with darkness. A land lost to time. What possessed you to ask for such a thing?"
"I had... a dream. No, a vision! Of a battle that took place within the fields of ashen grass."
"A battle you say?" Tianshu perked his aging brow, interested in hearing more. "Forgive my lack of knowledge Ganyu, but did the vision remind you of your time during the Archon War? Surely-"
Uncle Tian had to hold his stance firm as he was startled by the Adeptus' burst of fearful denial. "No- NO! I mean, during the war Rex Lapis never left to fight beyond the borders of Liyue. And the vision I saw was something else, more dangerous and deadly."
"An omen, perhaps? Or maybe just a nightmare. Humans have those."
"Adepti never dream of horrid visions of death and destruction," Ganyu retorted, and Tianshu swore he had caught a glimpse of rage in her lilac eyes. "Especially of my kind. The Qilin."
Another surprise to the aging merchant. Ganyu was always uncomfortable in discussing her Adeptus side. Tianshu and Tianxuan were the only ones who truly understood her plight. Both were people that Ganyu trusted enough to share her troubles. And this time was no different. Only much more enlightening, and more dreadful by the second.
"What makes you so sure of that?" Tianshu asked, and settled on his seat comfortably. He had a feeling that this might go on a little longer.
"The only time the Qilin dreamed of ill omen was when Osial threatened to destroy Liyue, and when the dragon Chi tried to enslaved my kind."
That took right off the left field. "I see, then there are no doubts that it was a vision. But a vision for what? The future?"
"I wouldn't be so sure," she tried not to fidget much, Tianshu thinks it was a brave effort, but useless against a man as experienced as he was. "B-but there some details that I think convinced me that it was a vision of the future. For starters, the practice of having a disciple was outlawed even before Liyue was born."
"Disciples?"
"Adeptus Disciples," Ganyu clarified, forgetting that Uncle Tian was not exactly knowledgable with the Adeptal world. "Adepti would pick humans to teach them their craft of adeptal arts, just like when an archon would award a mortal with the power of Vision. Passing down their knowledge and techniques. It is where the concept of Sigils of Permission came from, but much more potent and more effective than today's version. The practice was lost, unfortunately."
"Lost? How could it have been lost?" Tianshu couldn't wrap his head around the idea that such a method would be so lost that easily.
"It was- in an unfortunate fate -that humans used the same techniques that were taught to them as to merely surpass and kill other adepti. You can see why the art was "lost" in the millennia before Liyue. That is why many of us aren't as plentiful as were before. And as to why some adepti still resent some humans for that."
"It was a long time ago, we couldn't have held a grudge for that long-"
"But the Adepti can!" Ganyu cut him off by slamming the table, showing a rare sign of anger. "To them- to us- you humans are still the same, greedy and malevolent creatures of lust and sin!"
Dreaded silence was shared between them, but the sound of knocking from inside broke that silence. "Excuse me, is everything alright in there?"
Tianshu did his best to assure them, and when the attendants were satisfied and left them be, did only Ganyu realize she snapped towards him. A look of dawning horror was on her face as she tried to calm and settle herself down. Tianshu wasn't afraid but was worried about that outburst she gave. Never did Ganyu would insult a human or anyone at all, but Tianshu knew he was but a child to her age. He was confident she normally wouldn't, but the trouble was still the same.
"What happened? In the dream, I mean. What did you see?"
Tianshu knows something that Ganyu wasn't sharing everything she knew, he was patient with her, but wouldn't know how long that would last. He wants to help her, but if she wasn't willing to share then that would be the end of it. He might try again next time, as he always did to those who were not willing. For a human, patience was key in everything.
"I lost the battle."
"Hmm?" Finally, something to talk about. "You lost? How so?"
It took a minute for her to gather her thoughts, and Tianshu noted her ashamed look. "During the battle, we were winning. But then... dread. A force pushed us down, like a weight of a million stones burdened our backs. It lasted a few seconds, but it was enough."
"I- I... I couldn't handle those screams," Ganyu was now trembling, her tired form shivered at the image of those pale faces and glazed eyes. "Demons. Demons were our foe."
"What?!" Tianshu himself wasn't faring any better. Demons?! "Impossible! They are mere remnants and were but a shadow of their former glory, apart from small entities, what you claim is preposterous Ganyu."
"I know what I saw," Ganyu argued back, a fierce snarl rearing to unleash itself. It wasn't directed at Uncle Tian, but at the thousand of eyes that glared red at her weak form. It still haunted her. "There were so many of them. I did my best, as did the soldiers and warriors that fought with me. But a single moment of weakness was enough to devour my troops and decimated our forces with a single barrage. Even I can't block it with the power I had wielded during the battle. I too was defeated."
Tianshu felt older than he could comprehend, but he must push on-
"There was also something that bothered me, where was Rex Lapis? No adepti would face a battle that large without another supporting each other."
"Maybe he was occupied with a larger battle?"
"Maybe," Ganyu halfheartedly replied. "But it didn't change the fact that I lost. I would never make that happen, that dream will stay a dream. I'll make my own reality."
Ganyu gazed at her cold cup of tea, her determined reflection gazed back at her. There was a single detail she left out on purpose, fearing the reparations if the other adepti would hear of it. Her vision or whatever it can be called can be dismissed or taken seriously among the other adepti. But what she saw last...? It can never be known!
Those familiar golden eyes, baleful and strong. It seems that even the Conqueror of Demons could be conquered by his own demons.
Xiao...? Why?
Pain. Aching pain. As if Zhongli decided to just throw a meteor at his face.
Suppressing a groan, Aether's eyes slowly opened. The sensation he felt was suddenly numbed from up to bottom. He never felt such unpleasant feelings since he woke up at the beach on that fateful night. Aether doesn't like the similarity of that moment, as it only serves to remind him of his recent failures. And yes, he still feels shitty about that.
When was the last time he ate? A day ago? He briefly remembers having a quiet breakfast with Allard and Bennett, the small toast and eggs with the flavor of companionship. Aether enjoyed the brief respite with an old friend, even if young Bennett isn't exactly close with him. He was thankful for Allard to give Aether some piece of mind by distracting him with Bennett's numerous and curious questions.
He had a feeling the old man knew of his troubles, but Aether was thankful nonetheless. Still, he should have taken Allard's word for danger seriously, and now look where he is; someone else's home, again. And injured. Again.
"I should really stop doing this," Aether sighed in contempt. The sun was out, bright and early, he wonders how long had he been unconscious. Hours? An entire night? He was not confident to find out for himself but decided to do so. He was on a tight schedule. Aether has no time to spend pondering his misfortunes.
He oddly noticed that he was only wearing his coat. Aether gazed at the corner of the room, where he found pieces of his metal armor piled up. His shattered silver sword lay beside them as well. Great, now he had to buy another one, or maybe a much better blade than the last since he now had the cash.
Aether tried to sit upright on the bed, which wasn't even a proper one and tried to observe his surroundings. He noticed where the source of bright light came from, a massive circular wooden window on his left and an entrance with no door. He saw the colors of the blue waters and a horizon of sand. Grunting in pain, Aether clutched his left rib and noticed the majority of his injuries were massive bruises. No bleeding was a good sign. It has been a while since Aether fought a Ruin Guard and had forgotten that they hit hard.
A small gasp snapped his attention towards the open entrance of the hut, and Aether let out a breath of relief. Ningguang's worried ruby eyes stared at shock at him, but it was quickly replaced with joy befitting a child like her.
"Mister! You're okay! I thought you were hurt."
A small body slammed into him, and Aether had to suppress wincing in pain. Her tiny form hugged tightly, but he didn't mind, as long as she let go as soon as possible. Aether couldn't feel anything in his chest, and he was afraid that he might've gone a little too far with his battle against the Ruin Guard.
"H-hey, it's alright, I've faced worst before," Aether grinned as Ningguang finally let him go. She still gazed in worry, but Aether held up a hand to show he was alright. Ignoring the unbearable pain that suddenly struck his raised arm. "Thanks for the save, I couldn't have done anything if it wasn't for your intervention."
Ningguang's cheeks turned bright red, and she noticed how close they were. Her sudden squeak of surprise and embarrassment startled poor Aether, but he thought nothing less of it. He just believed that she was scared of the reminder of their sudden encounter with a Ruin Guard of all things. But to her, it reminded Ningguang of the feeling of unease around him. It wasn't bad or anything sinister, but the sensation of adrenaline and excitement bursting forth every time he was close. Such feelings of emotional arousal were foreign to her, but it wasn't so terrible. Just sickeningly sweet.
Aether then remembers the moment he struggles to get up, the Ruin Guard's massive foot pinning him down. Aether was barely conscious and was barely attempting to get the machine off of him. But he lost the willpower to even conjure a simple wind, Aether was so sure he was done for. At least Little Ningguang might've gotten away. To his shock, Geo particles struck the Ruin Guard in surprise, making the machine tumble in disorientation. Aether didn't hesitate to summon his blade and burning every last drop of energy he had to pierce the Ruin Guard's weak point, the Core.
He couldn't recall much, but he still heard the cries of a young girl before being knocked cold. Aether gazed suddenly at Ningguang's nervous form beside him, she recently acquired a Geo Vision readily strapped to her hips with a mere small rope.
"Uh, congrats by the way?"
"T-thanks!" Ningguang stuttered at Aether's words, her shock worn off a few hours ago when she believed she was still dreaming. She got her own Vision! Sure, not as useful as Mora, but it was given by the blessings of Rex Lapis himself. Ningguang was sure she was on the right path!
"Ah, finally awake I see."
An old woman entered the small shack, and to his utter bewilderment, a familiar face. Her hunched form was easily evident to her age, but that melancholy face reminded Aether of a lonely old woman giving thousand-yard gazes towards the sea. He remembered her tragic tale, of loss and solitude. He could relate in a sense, both weathered countless loss throughout the years. Both still yearned for treasured moments, wishing to relive memories of happiness. But just like Aether, both can't have what they wish. Granny Chu lost her love, yearning but moved on nonetheless. Aether lost everything and tried to remedy past tragedies, and managing to make it worse than it should have.
"Granny!" Ningguang's face brightened at the sight of the old woman, her boundless energy returned once more as Aether witnessed before.
"Greetings," Aether decided to introduce himself, feigning his surprise at her sudden appearance. "My name's Aether, a traveler of sorts passing by. Your granddaughter and I encountered a Ruin Guard at my moment of distraction, as it was my mistake, please forgive me."
Ningguang's mood grew sullen at Aether's proclamation since she still felt guilty at distracting him in the first place. Before she could retort, the small chuckle Granny Chu gave halted her.
"Nonsense, young man, both of you were not at the fault of anything. In fact, I wish to thank you, Traveler. I couldn't imagine little Ningguang fending for herself against a Ruin Guard. Vision or no Vision. Because of you, young man, she was able to go home once again to eat my dinner and share more laughs with this aging woman. Thank you."
The woman's emotional words managed to stir Aether's hope again. Ningguang on the other hand was pouting in false contempt, but the evident blush on her face was again resurfaced at the reminder of Aether's actions. She was pleased that no one was held accountable for the blame, but then again she still felt guilty of indirectly harming one of her customers. Her pride took a hit nonetheless.
Ningguang was surprised at Granny Chu's words for affection at Ningguang's stay and relation with the young girl. She felt quite relieved that she was treasured company for the old woman. Aether knew better, of course. Having another loss, especially a child, would definitely break the poor woman's soul. If it wasn't broken already. He took this as his cue to comfortably shift the conversation.
"Ningguang was it?" Aether asked, once again feigning his knowledge of her name. "We didn't exactly have the pleasure to introduce ourselves, have we? My name is Aether."
"Yes, mister Aether!" Ningguang's joy at finally being addressed was comforting to his soul. Her ruby eyes shined brighter, and her wide charming smile made his aching pain go away. Mostly.
Aether couldn't help but chuckle at her politeness, "It's just Aether, I ain't that old."
Yet. Give or take, a millennium or two.
The little girl thought hard of it but conceded to his request. If it made the man happy, then Ningguang wouldn't argue. Her customer's happiness comes first.
"Both of you get along well," Granny Chu noted, easily noticing the quick acquiesce between them.
"Well, your granddaughter is very polite. I bet she'll grow into a charismatic woman."
The confident tone implied along with the utter certainty in his face made the little girl blush, but the old woman agrees. "I know she will, but little Ningguang isn't my granddaughter."
"She isn't?" Aether perked his brow, pretending to be surprised. He knew Ningguang must've lived here for a while, but considering her memories, both are not related in any way possible. Just a lonely old woman accompanied by an orphan girl until both go at their separate ways in life.
The old woman chuckles, "No, but sometimes I wished that was the case."
Both chuckled at Ningguang's' expense. The conversation continued until it was noon, and lunch was prepared by Granny Chu. Aether protested at being treated at free lunch, but the stubbornness of both ladies and coupled with his hunger, he capitulated at long last. Sharing a quiet meal between the three of them.
Aether stumbled out of the shack built within a massive tree and saw the wide coast of the marsh. He remembered the day when he and Paimon accepted a commission by clearing out a couple of hilichurl tribes at the shoal, he saw a lonely structure in the distance. By the peninsula of the small coast was a treehouse of sorts, with several people living in it. Young men and women, along with Granny Chu, sheltered themselves at the treehouse.
Many were retired sailors and astrologers, and Granny Chu did her best to accommodate them. Aether back then wondered how in the world she got the Mora to maintain the place, and now he had a good idea as to why. Or who was helping the old woman maintain the place.
"Quite the place for solitude, isn't it?"
Granny Chu decided to follow him as well, both standing at the water's edge, and gazing at the wide ocean. The peaceful silence was shared between them, and Aether noted the old woman was silently fretting about something.
"She feels guilty, you know," Granny Chu suddenly talked, and it startled Aether on how quiet she is. Barely a whisper, but still audible for him to hear clearly.
But yeah, Aether wasn't blind to the poor girl's attention to him. From the moment he awoke, Ningguang did her best at making him comfortable and even blatantly requested to help feed him during lunch. Aether was already embarrassed by her stubborn treatment of his current state and promptly refused.
"I know," Aether nodded. "She had a rough time, I suppose. Ningguang's still probably shaken by yesterday's events."
"Maybe," the old woman agreed, "She did come home with an injured stranger, and spent the entire night patching you up. The poor girl was definitely frightened, but not for her sake."
Ah, Aether knew what she was talking about. "I see. How did Ningguang and I get here anyway?"
"Oh, a fisherman named Yu made an agreement with Ningguang of ferrying her off and onshore around the shoal. The young man was frightened of the Ruin Guard remains you left behind. Yu was hesitant to help you, but little Ningguang would have none of that. Nothing was said between them when they arrived, but the terrified look on the young man's face told me everything."
Aether bet the fisherman was more scared of Ningguang than both he and the Ruin Guard could muster. Not that Aether blames him, Ningguang can be quite terrifying when things don't go her way. Aether learned not to piss her off as her bodyguard once. The poor merchant was still probably having a hard time composing himself around the Tianquan's presence before the war.
"When are you going to leave?"
A question that Aether asked himself some time ago, but he knew not to stick around for another day. "In a few hours, the main road is merely a few ways from here, right? I could handle it myself. You wouldn't need to bother with me again."
"Oh, it wasn't that, young man. It's just Ningguang might follow you."
"Eh," Aether nearly lost his footing, he couldn't properly process what she had just said. "W-what do you mean she would follow me?"
"I already knew little Ningguang might leave soon. Actually, she spent most of her days at the shoal to gather enough Mora to go to Liyue Harbor. Are you going there, by any chance?"
Yes, actually. "That was the plan."
Granny Chu nodded, satisfied with his answer. "I wish to ask a favor, Traveler."
"Of course, I owe both you and Ningguang. I'll do it to the best of my abilities."
"I'll speak with the girl, you shouldn't worry yourself about her," seeing as Aether nodded back, Granny Chu went back inside of the shack. Probably to reassure Ningguang's troubles, and help her pack her stuff.
He was confident he could make it on his own, but having company on the way might alleviate his tension of the doubts that plagued his mind. Aether could only ponder alone by the shore, and wonders what would happen next. Aether resisted praying to a certain drunk god, he had enough troubles already and would not count the "blessings" of Barbatos on its own. He needed more.
Maybe visiting a Statue of the Seven along the way wasn't a bad idea. Geo wasn't a terrible pick.
Ningguang was excited!
Waving her goodbyes to Granny Chu, both she and Aether head west, to the main road. She was elated to finally leaving the shoal! Sure, she spent the majority of her life here, but Aether said opportunities were basically limitless in cities. It was her time to shine!
The walk was uneventful as mister Aether already had a hard time walking by himself. But later where they encountered a millileth outpost near the main road, Ningguang was shocked at how fast Aether had recovered on his injuries.
Aether asked if there were any good places to eat, and Ningguang knew a small and humble inn by the main road. The prices were horrendous, though. She made sure to ignore the place as much as possible, especially when there are greater crowds present. But the young inn owner and she had an acquaint relationship, mister Zhu was a generous guy if not a bit outdated on his thinking. His business was booming now, and Ningguang wanted to show mister Aether around her home!
Ningguang found her companion confusing at times. When a plant was in sight, Aether would stray off course to pick it up. Then when a shiny thing was found at a distance the man would go there next. It was a cycle that repeated itself. All the way until they had reached the roadside inn. Was this how mister Aether had met her? Just stumbling into random things until trouble pops up?
She wonders how was he still alive at this point. Probably on how geared up he was.
Ningguang had seen plenty of adventurers stumbling on Granny Chu's home, but the majority of them would just fumble around, confused and lost. She grew a small loathing for such buffoons, but her world view shattered when mister Aether showed up on the shoal looking for something. Ningguang thought another adventurer was lost again and tried to ignore him, but then she saw his empty regard towards the sea. A look she had shared before. When she lost her whole family.
Maybe this one was different, she had said to herself. Ningguang decided to approach him nonetheless and was unnerved by how he had perceived through her so quickly. Different indeed. She also noticed the way he carried himself, he was in a guarded stance when she called out to him but relaxed after assessing her threat towards him. She pretended not to notice the way he gazed at her eyes. Ningguang felt as if she was stripping herself bare for him to see. It made it even worse when she realized not having to fix herself up, as mister Aether glanced around her face. Riddled with sand, dust, and sweat.
Ningguang never felt this self-conscious of her looks before, as it was unnecessary. Being scrutinized by a handsome stranger made her feel like a stained and unkempt girl. But his soft smile and calm demeanor made her think twice. She felt as if her looks wouldn't matter to him, nor her meager wealth.
But considering his longing look, it had seemed that she might've reminded him of an old friend.
His outfit was another selling point to her assessment, they were high quality, but recently made and used. The cloth was bare white and grey, along with the tight pants. Gauntlets and armor plating covered his arms, legs, and his left shoulder. Though his weapon was anything to be desired, the skill at which he used was fascinating to her.
She had seen many Guhua students practicing at the shoal with their seniors, but all of their techniques were mere parlor tricks to his savage swings and powerful accurate strikes. Ningguang wouldn't doubt mister Aether if he had killed a man, that's just how the world works. She hated that violence was an answer some people tend to use. Mister Aether was different, though. Most killers she had seen wondering the shoals were not as kind and considerate as most. Even normal folks and nearby villagers would laugh at her simple wares, and they did have a point. Starconch was as common as any rocks around any shores. But they were high quality! Those people must've been blind, as she had worked hard collecting and cleaning those Starconchs to perfection. Still, not many would buy her wares.
Except mister Aether did, as the young man seemed happy to purchase anything from her, and then complimented on how much a better quality they were. It made her giddy, she would admit, as for someone to appreciate her craft and hard work. It was the first time any person would show happiness in what she was doing.
That soft yet nice feeling to her chest turned to unmitigated horror when she spotted a Ruin Guard stomping its way towards them. It was already too late to warn him as several missiles rushed towards them, and yet mister Aether didn't hesitate to grab hold of her and jump out of the way. Ningguang immediately sought after a hiding spot to take cover. A few seconds later, she took a peek out of her rock and saw a battle taking place. To her, it lasted a mere few moments, to them, it might have lasted more.
She was undeniably scared, but the thought of the kind man losing and dying because of her was more terrifying than anything she could've ever imagined. She once again peeked out only to squeak in terror as debris hurdled her way. A mistake she still regretted now, as mister Aether was distracted by a mere second. Enough for the machine to strike back. Ningguang held back a scream as she saw the man's body fly like a rag-doll in the air before hitting a boulder.
She thought he was dead. A man died because of her. A compassionate and gentleman who appreciated her choice in living her simple life, to praise and admire her wares where no other person did. Her heart broke, and she felt her soul slowly descend to the fading abyss. That is until the corpse she thought was dead struggled to get up and fight back.
Why wouldn't he just run away? Leave her here to face the Ruin Guard as a distraction, she would've understood if he did. She was powerless, weak, and small. She could barely throw a rock a few meters ahead without panting in exhaustion. She could do nothing... but pray.
Ningguang prayed harder than she could before, to the Geo Archon, and to any god that could help her save this man. No! She refused to give in so easily! Ningguang would beg for any price for her to pay, even if to sell her soul to demons to have the power to fight back.
She felt her legs stand without her own accord and charged. Leaving her box of Starconch behind, as it would only hold her back, she ran towards the giant as fast as she could.
Ningguang didn't know why it felt so nostalgic and intimate to hold her arms forward. She found out a second later when Geo particles pummeled the weak point of the Ruin Guard, enough to send it trembling in pain. It did not stand a chance, not when mister Aether stabbed in the eye so fiercely. He soon collapsed in pain, as would Ningguang as she felt her legs weaken and ready to crumble. Before she did, a golden light sprung from the heavens, and like a shooting star, and made her wish come true.
She awoke by a sensation of urgency shaking her awake and found Yu trying his best to wake her up. Clutching something to her hand unknowingly, Ningguang tried to look for the nice man, and she saw him with the massive remains of the Ruin Guard. Without a second thought, she grabs hold of him and dragged him towards Yu. The man was terrified, but she pointed it out to him tersely if he would not help her, the man better pray fast.
The boat ride was short, and she thought she was hallucinating when Ningguang saw a boy older than her gaze at the remains of the Ruin Guard and towards them. His unnerving glare and strange posture were otherworldly, and at the blink of her eye disappeared like the mist. It was strange but concluded it was a long day.
She spent the night patching up the man and explaining to Granny Chu what had happened. The rest was history to her case.
Her thoughts were interrupted as she saw mister Aether was pointedly looking at her. What was wrong this time?
"Hey, uh, do you wanna eat something?"
The polite thing to do was to say no, but she was a little hungry, so a small snack might do. "Yes, mister Aether. I'll purchase some food to eat-"
"Nonsense, I'll treat you for some sweets. Waiter! Jade Parcels and Almond Tofu please."
J-jade Parcels?! Almond Tofu? That's just-
"W-wait! I couldn't afford food like that!" Ningguang was utterly bewildered at the man's dismissal of these horrendous prices. I mean- who would dare charge such simple foods with prices that could turn her months of profits into mere chump change in seconds?!
"Who said you would pay?" Aether continued consuming his simple Calla Lily Seafood Soup nonchalantly. "Let me treat you. It's the least I could do."
She was stuttering. Words were foreign to her tongue, and if any would escape, gibberish was all that came out. Ningguang thought she knew Mora, but she highly underestimated mister Aether's ability to earn more than she could. She had the total amount of ten-thousand to her name, safely tucked inside a massive pouch to her side.
It might as well look like a bag of dirt, along with the wooden box filled with her wares of Starconch. Ningguang suddenly felt inadequate compared to the man minding his own business opposite of her. The two plates of expensive delicacies delivered in front of her tiny form made it even worse.
"Almond Tofu and Jade Parcels. Enjoy your meal! Oh, here's the bill sir. Would you like to order anything else?"
"I call if there's more," Aether briefly dismissed the waitress, wiping his stained mouth with a clean cloth as he already finished his meal. He pulled out around a few thousand Mora and paid the bill.
The scenery at Mr. Zhu's inn reminded him of the times he spent with Mona. Their tables were but simple bamboo furniture along with the chairs. The inn itself was the same, the wooden structure merely housed some more chairs and tables inside, but Aether prefers the mountain view. He noted that they were near the city of Liyue, just an hour or so on foot.
Noticing that Ningguang still hasn't touched her food, Aether grew worried if she did not like it. He knew Ninggaung doesn't enjoy the flair in food, but Jade Parcels were a simple meal. Maybe. To make it by himself and order was a small affair if he had the ingredients. He was confident that he could make much better pastry than this if the poor girl was still unsatisfied.
"No NO! It's just I had never tasted fancy foods before."
"Maybe I should order something more simple? Soup perhaps?" Aether smiled, willing to hear her thoughts on the matter.
"No need, thank you for the meal," Ningguang mumbled in embarrassment. Her ruby eyes shyly avoided his golden ones.
Aether still doubted her but decided not to push too much. He was wondering if he had crossed a boundary she wouldn't like. He knew Ningguang personally, figuratively, and literally. But maybe her age is what made the difference. Aether was still unsure how to act around his (sort of) friends, so he treated them as he always did. With gentle care and massive respect.
Ningguang on the other hand was flattered, but she had a gut feeling that this wasn't about repaying her back from yesterday's events. It felt as he had known her for so long, and treated her accordingly so. She was scared. Scared of what she might do to disappoint him.
Granny Chu was like a mother figure to her, but the young man before her was wholly different. Damn. Ningguang only had met him yesterday afternoon and she felt nostalgic around him. She felt safe and secure to his smile, and Ningguang doesn't know why.
Seeing as Ningguang reluctantly picked up her utensils, Aether was satisfied. Her joy and utter bliss in merely tasting the almond tofu made it even better. A certain Yaksha might approve of her taste. Comfortable silence was shared between them, as the sounds of squeals and yelps in a cute manner descended.
Aether had a feeling he might enjoy his time in Liyue.
He decided to lie to Niggguang. Just a little bit.
Aether and an (adorably) satisfied Ningguang finally arrived to witness the arched entranceway to Liyue Harbor just beyond them, and a couple of stairs are the only obstacles. That, and the Statue of the Seven of Rex Lapis right beside him. Ningguang was happily humming a tune unknown to Aether and noticed he suddenly halted in his tracks.
"What's wrong mister Aether?"
"For the last time, Ningguang, it's just Aether from now on, okay?" Aether had to suppress another annoyed groaned, but he had a feeling the little brat was enjoying it. "Nothing is wrong, maybe a little break is needed, as the bustling city might exhaust us later."
Ningguang readily nodded at his answer, and Aether found it weird lately as to why the girl behaved herself and silent on their way here. Thoughts of yesterday again appeared, and Aether knew something must've been eating her thoughts away. It must be the Vision to her possession or the sudden attack against the Ruin Guard. He really wouldn't know, as he was occupied with his thoughts as well.
"Oh look, a bunch of happy couples over there might like to look at your wares!"
Ruby eyes followed his pointed finger at the dozen people gathered by the small village next to them. The little girl nodded happily and bounced off towards them. Now, alone with the Statue, he softly made contact with the statue and prayed for the blessings of Geo to be awarded to him.
As expected, a shining golden light descended from the stone form of Rex Lapis and Aether readily accepted the blessing. He feels as if the earth around him flows like water, the familiar sensation of strength and knowledge felt like a cold shower after a hot day. It felt refreshing. Like the wind was gentle flow, the earth was a steady stream to his soul. Another element to his arsenal. This time he wouldn't be caught off-guard so easily.
The next foe he would face might feel the wrath of earth and wind. Crushing his foes faster, and controlling the flow of battle was his forte. Having multiple elements at his side was a boon, a reliable tool for violence. But maybe investing in a fake Vision might help cover his unnaturalness. His new outfit worked perfectly for an "adventurer" like him, few would question him, fewer still would bother.
Aether heard slow footsteps behind him, and he turned to see a downtrodden Ningguang sulkily walk towards him. "There were not interested, were they?" Aether asked out of sympathy, feeling a little guilty about lying to the poor girl for his own gain. But hey, Aether now has a new asset to use. He'll make sure to use it well. Damn, now he sounded like La Signora.
"No, they weren't," Ningguang glumly replied. "They said my wares were not "up to standard" like those here in Liyue. One lady said they prefer jewels to barren shells."
"Don't listen to them, they wouldn't know a real gem from a fake one. I don't know if I should pity them for it, or feel antagonistic. Never mind, I know of a guy who buys Starconch at a good price, maybe you'll glean some profits out of that."
Aether smiled as the little girl seemed to cheer up from his statement. He hopes Old Wu still runs the stalls that he and Paimon stumbled once at the market. Peculiar, as he and his travel companion doesn't know what to do with the Starconch he had in his possession, he encountered the old man who was willing to buy them off his hands. Depends on the price, of course. But considering little Ningguang's choice of quality, the old man might be happy to buy them off her hands. If he still was around.
"Let's go, before the sun sets." Aether ushered the girl with him towards the massive stairs. Ningguang followed without suit without complaint, and both were now in sight of the city.
He smirked when he saw the girl's gasp in awe, with the fading light across the horizon, the city was beautiful as ever. Was this how Ningguang saw Liyue for the first time? In childlike wonder, and absolute bewilderment? If so, not a bad reaction. He too was awed by the city's spectacle. But the best part was still ahead.
Not wasting any more time, Aether continued to usher in the still awed child. They were not alone, though, as hundreds of merchants, visitors and even a few villagers from all around gathered in the main entrance of the city. It was heavily crowded, too crowded. Aether narrowed his eyes at the front gate, spying several millelith soldiers stand guard.
The entrance was still grand as ever, the aged wood and stone that held the massive structure still seems new to the naked eye. Aether knew that ancient magic by Morax prevented it to wither away. Heck, every stone foundation was raised and formed by Morax himself. Old was not a word to describe Liyue, and neither is new. Balance could be a good trait.
"Wait! Mister Aether, look!"
He was about to lightly reprimand Ningguang until he spotted one of the traders entering the city handed a pouch of Mora to one of the guards. The trader himself was miffed, but towed his cart forward regardless of what he thinks. The millelith guards on the other hand seemed troubled as well. Now that Aether had noticed, the people in line seems disgruntled but accepted it. Something was not right, he can feel the tension in the air.
When both Aether and Ningguang reached the entrance, a millelith stopped him. "Halt, state your intentions, traveler. Are you a visitor, trader, or a citizen?"
"I am an adventurer," Aether stated blandly, earning a nervous squawk from Ningguang. It was an answer, not the one the millelith was expecting.
"Hmph, a visitor then. On your way then- Halt, you child, state your business."
Aether nearly drew his shattered blade, but the much experienced one beside the millelith who dared to put their hands threateningly at Ningguang stopped him. "Sorry- under strict orders to not let anyone in- so please, are you visitor, trader, or citizen?"
It took a moment, but Aether withdrew his hand at his sheath but kept a close watch. The girl was anxious about what to answer, but he gave a reassuring smile, making Nigguang confident. "C-citizen...?"
"I see, do you have an identification permit?"
"N-no but-"
"Then no entry," the millelith cut her off, ignoring the unnerving gazes from his other colleagues. Aether himself was dead-staring at his head. "Next-"
This time, he was the one cut off, as Aether grabbed his arm and shoved him aside. The other millelith aimed their spears, but they knew a winning battle this was not. Especially the one who reigned in the millelith that held the girl. His brown eyes nervously stared at Aether's. He knew adventurers were strong, but his comrade made a worse enemy!
"W-what's the meaning of this? How dare you- agh!" the black-haired millelith seemed to forget who was threatening who. What he saw next terrified both him and his comrades, golden eyes pierced their determination off their souls.
Aether learned of the Millelith's origins from Zhongli, when Aether and the consultant shared a meal. Of course, he had to pay as Zhongli hadn't received his pay yet. He had regaled Aether a tale of bravery and sacrifice. The Millelith Brigade was formed during the Archon War, consisting of only humans, and served as an honor guard for Rex Lapis. Even if they were human, they fought the evils that tainted the land all the same and stood guard until its fall when Liyue was occupied. The Thousand Rock Army, a fearsome name.
Zhongli did feel quite disappointed in his lack of attention to the millelith, but was satisfied in their role as peacekeepers of the city. Aether wouldn't want to admit it out loud, but the tradition of "standing firm against evil" was just a moniker for morale. He had seen even some veterans quake in fear at the sight of Osial's manifested form that threatened the city, not that he blamed them, but the image of brave soldiers shattered when several had pissed themselves on the spot.
Releasing the vice-grip that spectacularly crushed the poor man's arms, Aether gave a modest smile- one that made the image much worse. It wasn't the smile of a murderer that unsettled them, it was a smile of a monster that was telling its prey to calm down. They knew the outcome if things went poorly.
"Surely, this might be a misunderstanding- the poor girl might've lost her permit. Can't you just give her a break?"
Fengyan, who was more than willing to negotiate, steadily replies, "O-of course! It's not that a permit would necessarily-"
"No!" the black-haired millelith harshly interrupted his comrade, "You know what Sheng will do if he found us slacking!? That damned gangster would have our heads!"
Aether narrowed his eyes, his curiosity peaking, and barely even noticing Ningguang meekly hide behind him. Gangster? The only criminal element present in Liyue was none other than the Treasure Hoarders. Or was it exclusive to the past? It seems he may have to tread carefully if he doesn't want to garner unwanted attention. If the millelith were worried, then the Qixing must've let this happen. It was common, sadly, for such things to happen. The Qixing won't interfere unless it truly harms the prosperity of Liyue and the disruption of trade. If the people are a little upset, then what was the harm?
Wait, now he had remembered- Ningguang's memories suggested that she had confronted them and finished them off. It was actually a starting point to her entire career as Tianquan. She was the only merchant not to follow the Syndicate's harsh regulation. The Syndicate. Aether's mind flashed with information, as Ningguang's life flashed before his eyes.
Lu Sheng, also known as the Lord of Mountains. A Geo vision user that had fallen from grace, and abused the power he had received from the gods. The Syndicate on the other hand was an international criminal organization, consisting of five families. Not much is known after that, as Ningguang only bothered to apprehend Lu Sheng and leave the fall of the Syndicate to shimmer. Liyue was her priority, nothing else mattered then.
Humming in thought, Aether pulled out a pouch filled with Mora and handed it towards the one who was adamant to follow "orders" from Sheng. If he was right, then these poor sods of the millelith were bribed to hand information of traders and citizens to a criminal organization that might take advantage. Visitors or adventurers like him were the exceptions as to not gain the ire of the adventurers guild.
"Here- for the troubles I mean," Aether nonchalantly gave the Mora to the gaping guard, not really caring for the expense. He had more to spare if anyone was asking. "Look, if anyone asks, the child's with me. If it comes into trouble, I'll handle it on my own."
The guard scoffed but took the bribe without complaints. His comrades breathe a sigh of relief as both Aether and Ningguang continued towards the bridge. Aether would have normally solved it with an argument and followed up with trouble in the physical kind. He was confident that he can take the entire brigade on but held himself firm as it would only endanger him more. That and probably scare away the child more than necessary. Speaking of the child;
"Hey, are you alright?" Aether asked as he saw the worried look in the child's eyes. "I didn't scare you much, did I?"
Ningguang's head shook a firm no, and gives a kind smile, "Don't worry mister Aether, I was just scared from the millelith. I was just wondering why you paid them Mora. Is it required? If we leave I don't have enough money..."
She was already embarrassed by Aether's treat earlier, now she was ashamed of being helpless in that situation. Facing a Ruin Guard was fine, but the stares that were given behind her gave a different vibe. The traders and citizens behind the line gave her many looks of disgusts, wariness, disbelief, and shock. In their eyes why would a country bumpkin like her belong here? When she was treated no differently by the millelith did only the stares stop. No one tried to protest as if it was a normal thing.
And then mister Aether happened to vouch for her; her lack of a privilege to enter was then paid off indifferently. But why her? Why did a distinguished adventurer would even bother a child like her. She already paid her debts, didn't she? What more could he want?
"Sometimes there are certain things that can be peacefully resolved by Mora," Aether wisely replied, pretty much copying Ningguang's own philosophy in her life. But in the end, he knew better than to question the wisdom of Dainsleif. He could still hear his altruistic and mysterious voice speak to him.
You and I both know the truth of this world, Aether. The universal language shared across sentient beings is violence. You and your sister shared that dance many times, have you?
But Ningguang's belief had merit; among mortals, it was the communication of bargain and price that sets the gauge of civility. The Tianquan knew better than most. That is why Aether held himself back there, lest he produces unwanted conflict. Ugh, great, now he sounds like Nigguang. What's happening to him?
"So... if you have Mora, you have power?"
"Yep," he gave the girl a patient smile. "That type of situation requires a delicate touch of what is called "bribery" that solves all questions. Not all, though."
That seems to satisfy the girl's mood, but the worry was still there. Something was bothering Ningguang and Aether would know soon enough. For now, the city of trade awaits.
Both of them crossed the massive bridge to be greeted by the bustling markets of Liyue. If Aether thought the Harvest Festival was packed, this was a normal day in Liyue. Truly, the Harbor City knows no rival. Aether smiled at the precious memories spent here. He and Paimon were awestruck when he arrived before, and it was no different. And it seems that little Ningguang feels the same.
"Wow!" Ningguang couldn't help but be awed by the sight. "I never knew Liyue is so BIG!"
Aether chuckled at the bouncing girl, her ruby eyes shined brighter than the fading sun. The sight was truly breathless to those who first witnessed it. The hundreds of small stalls carefully layered throughout the lower platform of the city were an eye-opener for visitors. Food, clothing, accessories, flowers, furniture, toys, and even small snacks. All readily available to the public, if they have the Mora. Which was out of the question to those who lived in the most prosperous city in Teyvat.
Now, unto business.
"Look, why don't we split up and meet at the Liuli Pavilion."
"H-huh?!" Ningguang was startled at Aether's sudden wish to abandon her. Well, not exactly abandoning her, more like a temporary separation. "B-but we just got here- and I-I..."
"No worries," Aether returned a soft smile to reassure her. "As I said; we'll meet up at the restaurant called Liuli Pavilion. But first, look for a man called Wu at the fish market near the wharf. He's the guy that'll purchase your Starconch at a good price." Hopefully. "After that, buy some appropriate clothes, will you? Especially the cheap ones."
To make the point go home harder, Aether pointedly gazed at Ningguang's bare legs. Her feet were rough, but purchasing a sandal was a good remedy to that problem. "Oh, wait. Here you go."
Aether pulled out a leather pouch that was enchanted by Gunther along with his new outfit and armor. It is a little big for the girl and was treated like a backpack. But in Aether's terms, it was settled nicely on her shoulder down to her waist.
"What's this for?" Ningguang curiously poked her temporary accessory, wondering what it does. The quality was something Ningguang never touched before- let alone imagined doing so! This was a dream come true. Sadly, it would seem that she could only borrow it...
"Oh, nothing really. Just an enchanted pouch that can hold massive amounts of Mora. It's yours by the way. Keep it." Not that he really needed it in the first place, but Gunther was adamant that it should be included based on Klee's drawing. I mean, what was the use for it when Aether has a magic sack of his own?
"Why? But-!"
"Actually, let us buy the appropriate clothes first," spying a clothing vendor, he gently ushered the shocked and confused girl towards it. "Oh, by the way, spend it wisely."
When they reached the stall, Ningguang was perplexed as to what he meant, but when Aether pointed his finger at the pouch's closed zip, she gulped in anxiousness. What she saw nearly made her faint on the spot. Mora. Tons of Mora! Her fingers slowly dig towards the filled pouch's depths, and when not finding it, shoved her arm deeper. She couldn't feel it. It was a bottomless pit. Her stomach might've been as well, as she felt strange all of a sudden.
She looked up to see Aether's soft smile, there was nothing wrong with that, and it only made her feel worse. "W-why? Why me? What did I do to deserve something like this?" Her voice was hoarse, and Nigguang caught her breath, which hitched harshly in her throat. She was crying. No, bawling like a baby! It's so embarrassing...
Aether gave a comforting pat on her shoulders, "Well, I owed you didn't I?"
"B-but at Mr. Zhu's inn!"
"Was merely a treat, and this-" Aether interjected, tenderly pointed at her new accessory, "This is a gift. Use it wisely."
Ningguang could only nod in silence, giving a few sniffs before heading towards the stall, with a resolute look in her burning eyes. She promises to buy the most efficient clothing to impress mister Aether in the cheapest way possible. She'll haggle and beg if that was the case! The Mora that was entrusted upon her- it was insane! She could've bought anything she wants, and Ningguang had a feeling that mister Aether wouldn't mind- no! Looking back, she saw Aether smiling at her and waved goodbye before slowly disappearing from the crowd.
She'll buy her clothes, sell her wares to this mister Wu, and meet up with Aether. Ningguang couldn't wait to see his gentle smile again.
Aether watched far from the crowds as the girl rushed towards the stall and startled the poor vendor. She'll be alright, if anything, Aether worries about what he'll find in this city. He couldn't confront the Qixing, not yet anyway. First things first, information. Drinking places were the area to be, but the lack of a good drinking hole was evident enough to think that Liyue does not invest much into alcohol. The port it is then.
He knows that sailors had mouths that can put gossiping girls into shame. And Aether knows a good spot right at the epicenter of the port. He'll ask if there was more to this Syndicate business that he can scrounge out of them. He can't fully rely on Ningguang's memories- some parts were missing, and many were still hidden.
Aether sensed his instinct acting up once more, further alert than ever before. The incident with the Ruin Guard left him paranoid about his surroundings. The city was different in a sense, with more people to look out for and fewer advantages to take. Someone was following him. This felt too clumsy to be a proper shakedown, as a good mugger could usually identify that he was armed and outfitted dangerously than any adventurers.
That meant he was dealing with an amateur, or someone so confident as to not care for stealth. Even if it was an amateur, that wasn't necessarily a better thing. Good thieves would just try and rob violence needed, and injuries were not as common.
Amateurish thieves might panic and stick a knife in your side. Death was inevitable, for the assailant that was. A lone mugger couldn't even hold up against a single hilichurl.
Kaeya had warned them about that- not thieves, specifically, but fighters who relied on random attacks and wild swings and how they could be just as dangerous as a professional opponent if you didn't take them seriously. A professional hand was better than a wild and untrained one. Aether shudders to imagine if Varka did not train Razor properly. The guy's swings were savage enough already.
Aether was just too stubborn to take a chance. He ducked into an alleyway and followed it down to the next bend, ducking around the corner. The pitter-patter of feet followed, picking up the pace so as to not lose him. Aether waited until it was close until it crested the corner itself before he lashed out. His fist struck nothing, soaring much higher above his aggressor than he'd expected. The person yelped in fright but took advantage of the moment to lunge in for the pouch on the outside of his armor. It wasn't a pouch for Mora, as it was a mere pouch filled with Starconch that he bought from Ningguang.
It was the inhuman speed alone that enabled him to recover and catch the thief by the wrist, dragging the thief back against the wooden structures that held the port. His reinforced leather coat protected him from the boot that was driven into his shin. Even if it hadn't, he doubted it would have done much. It was just a child. He'd been followed and mugged by someone who was probably ten or twelve at most.
"Let go!" the thief yelled, kicking her feet. "I earned it fair and square!"
But first, he had to deal with this little thing. Aether sighed and hoisted the figure up, so that they were eye to eye, if a little far apart – safety so that the little thing didn't plant a foot in his face. "I'm really not sure that's how theft works, if it did, I wouldn't be so surprised."
The thief stared at him with crimson blood eyes. "Well, why not? Just give me the Mora and I'll go. That way we're both happy. I don't want to have to rough you up, old man."
He couldn't help but feel a little pity for the girl, though. She was thin and wiry in a way that didn't look entirely healthy. At the very least Ningguang worked hard for her affairs, and Granny Chu took care of her. This one was not fortunate enough, it seems. Aether released the girl's wrist and letting her take a step back. She didn't scour away and in fact, eyed Aether's pouch again. It was obvious she was still looking for a chance to snatch it. Talk about tenacious. It kinda reminded him of someone's stubborn outlook in life.
A good trait to admire.
The little girl was startled when Aether pulled another pouch filled with Mora and threw it at her. She was so shocked that it bounced off her developing little chest and fell to the floor with a clink.
"There's a few thousand Mora in there. Try to make it last, and don't let anyone know you have it, as someone might try and take it off you." Some people were just desperate like that, but Aether had the confidence that the girl knew her stuff. Her size and speed could make up for strength.
"I-I don't need you to tell me that," the thief spluttered. She fell to her knees and picked up the pouch. She held it to her chest, obviously afraid if the kind stranger might change his mind and demand it back. The pouch was bulging, and in the girl's tiny hands it only made it more obvious how skinny she was.
"Bullies off the street would not get it off me, old man. I need this too much. M-my comrades need it badly. A-And maybe you're not too awful," she admitted with a murmur. Such a strong voice in her resolve made Aether blink twice. It was oddly familiar. Aether's eyes narrowed but he shook his head against it.
"Maybe consider a different approach next time, your execution was way off. Not exactly fit for a thief, ya know? Maybe a plunderer or a pirate. They take stuff whenever and whatever they want."
The kid somehow managed to look offended, puffing her little chest out in a way that might have been intimidating if she was twice as tall and twice as wide. A stature that terrified him, and reminded him of a certain woman that can slice a monster in half in a blink of an eye. "What do you mean!?"
"A good thief wouldn't have been caught," he pointed out teasingly. Aether really wouldn't want the poor kid to continue on like this, but he had no choice in the matter. The girl can live the life she wants. Aether knew better than to convince stubborn girls like her.
"Hmph," the thief slacked her form, pouting in the cutest way possible. Aether struggled to withhold a chuckle.
"What's your name then, oh greatest pirate?" Aether asked, humoring the poor girl. Sarcasm aside, it was the least he could do to calm the girl.
"Damn right, old man. I'm the greatest queen of pirates in all of Liyue!" she slapped a fist against her chest and laughed. "You'll remember the day you were robbed by Captain Beidou!"
Aether's breath hitched in shock. "W-What did you say your name was?"
It can't be...
The girl smiled toothily, and that smile was one he would have remembered any day. It was the smile of one of his closest friends. "The name's Beidou. Captain Beidou."
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
Not a very radiant dream isn't it, Ganyu? Also; guess who's back? Back again? Beidou is back, and ready to paint the town red.
Beidou is my bae, by the way.
Thirteen thousand words. A new record for me! A new story might pop up soon, as I needed another story to occupy my mind. Focusing on a single story is great and all, but having a short one might elevate some stress off my shoulders from bigger projects. This one is less dark and more light in comparison to OCF but still has some grey themes. It features Diluc- and no -it won't be a romance story. Some hurt/comfort themes with a little side of an unexpected friendship. It won't be posted for a while since I haven't planned for it, unlike OCF, but I'll try my best nonetheless.
I had an argument with my dad recently and felt more exhausted these past few days. Something about "family priorities" going first, and I was in the middle of crafting my research paper as well. He argued that I should help my auntie who has short hands at her business, and I quite agree with that. She did raise me when my parents left, and I owed her a lot. The only problem with that is; what they are asking is basically forsaking my studies to appease my other relatives with my attention to the family business. It would make them "proud." It's a waste of time for me, as my auntie could just wait a few days to hire a new hand, and she knew very well how I prioritize my future before anyone else. My dad didn't. It might've been the few years apart that changed us since he just recently came home from work at another country.
The argument lasted the entire morning, so I had to freaking leave the house for a while and stay at a friend's home. They were very accommodating since I grew up with them as well. My grandma was heartbroken since she hated seeing us fight, and I was scared for her ailing sickness already. Making sure not to escalate things, it was best to give some time between my dad and me. This really wasn't the first time. Apologies for ranting so unexpectedly, and for the low quality of work I have to publish. I was still fuming when I wrote the chapter. Ack. Headache.
If the chapter seemed so "meh" tell me, I'll remedy some parts if I have the time. It was hard writing this chapter for the past few days, but I managed to finish it nonetheless.
But just like what Aether experienced, life is cruel.
Does anyone even recognize Mr. Zhu? He was at Mona's story quest, something about a ring or heirloom. He has no important role in this, but it was good to just add some NPCs. This chapter also made me go beyond my limits and write Aether's PoV as a majority in this chapter, and maybe more in the future. My fingers are now crummy at writing the words "Aether" but the thought of writing Beidou excites me.
Also, Dainsleif will not show up until Aether has caught up in the timeline, and when Dvalin shows himself. So buckle up, it might take a while.
P.S. I don't want to spoil much as it is, but Zhongli's gonna have a harem. Cocomilf- I mean Cocomilk is a priority for our resident homeless man.
Review Reply: Idot: I sometimes wish it was, but I must keep moving forward! Tatakae!Tatakae!Tatakae!Tatakae!Tatakae! (I'll put a notification if that was the case, but I find that highly unlikely :/)