BetaReader: Offered

ACT I - Epilogue

Part I

Aether had seen what gods can execute against the mortal realm.

He had seen, amidst the war, Celestia opening their doors wide for the whole world to witness. Instead of bringing order and peace, Celestia's gods descended upon the realm and sided with the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles. The aftermath of that terrible revelation brought ruin and death.

Within those gilded doors, there was no salvation, but a glorified prison.

Its guards? The ascended Vision-users that accepted the fruits of the Heavenly Principles. Its prisoners? Those who rejected those same principles. The Warden? The Sustainer of Heavenly Principles herself, the unnamed god Aether had apparently faced more times than he could have imagined.

He had witnessed the emerald fields of Fontaine painted red with blood and fire. He had seen the forests of corpses, bodies impaled with thousands of spears across the snowy plains of Snezhnaya. Aether had definitely seen the downfall of what once was humanity's Symbol of Freedom. The image of the terror and desperation faced by the myriad of brave souls at Sumeru would be forever implanted within his soul.

He left Liyue behind and never looked back.

Inazuma was swallowed whole by the gods' pets beneath the dark sea. The people, and its god, vanished in a single night. Aether mourned those he could not say goodbye to and grieved to those he did.

That is what the gods are capable of.

Bringing scars and gifts to humanity, but for what? Nothing. Nothing was gained nor taken away.

When Celestia was plunged into the depths with the desperate yet brave efforts of Kaeya and the Tsaritsa, the numerous gods that descended from Celestia lost their powers, and were hunted like the deranged animals they were.

Aether and his team were personally leading the hunt.

But comparing a god to an Archon is like comparing a fly to a wasp-eating eagle. Those seven lights were above all other beings in Celestia. In turn, they were kept away, but still in arm's length. Some, like Venti, decry the wisdom of the Heavenly Principles, and skid through the lines that were fine with those in Celestia, and those that were not. Some adhered out of fear or reverence, but there were only two that came into mind. Both Zhongli and Ei went in line with the Heavenly Principles, but in the end took matters into their own hands when the situation did not suit them.

And then there was the Tsaritsa, who was in the category that went against Celestia to the fullest.

That sort of dynamic shifted in the war, but Aether was unsure in the end. Many of the Archons he made friends with died, and the rest went missing, their fate being unknown.

Standing beneath to whom was meant to be the strongest of the Seven, Aether was reminded of the sheer prowess of the gods. This was not Zhongli, this was Rex Lapis, the Prime Adepti, a victor of a conflict that saw the fall of more gods than the war against Celestia.

The amber pupils that may look like the tallest peaks in Liyue boring down at him did not help at all. In fact, it was quite unnerving. Aether tried not to flinch, flicking his hand and summoning a blade. Ningguang beside him tensed, she sensed his wariness, but her red eyes couldn't help but look in awe.

Having to hunt gods on a nearly daily basis, it ruined Aether's perspective on divinity.

Aether gulped down hard as he tried hard not to sweat. It would be a terrible first impression if the destruction of one's property did not already ruin it.

Seeing that Aether was not answering, the Exuvia narrowed its eyes on him. "I said that your performance was exemplary. Was my compliment not satisfying enough?"

Aether stared as Qiqi blinked, and Ningguang gawked. A butterfly passed through, and Qiqi's head swerved towards it, leaving Aether alone to stare at the form of the Exuvia with apprehension.

Was he just being eased into the interrogation? If so, well-played.

"Well, the performance was ruined by property damage," Aether said, shrugging at the amount of damage around the street and especially the warehouse. "The, uh, Arsenal lacks a roof, if you haven't already noticed?"

Silence.

Apart from Qiqi trying to catch the butterfly, every soul in the vicinity was silent. Ganyu was still holding Xiao on her lap, but she gasped in horror at the expense of a mortal being sarcastic with Rex Lapis. Xiao, on the other hand, opened one of his eyelids and shut them closed after deciding it was not worth the extra headache in making sense of what the human was uttering towards his superior. Yanfei... well, she was still processing what in the name of Morax - the giant dragon coughed - just happened. Ningguang was twisting her head between Aether and the giant dragon above them. A rumble occurred.

Instead of rocks and mountains showering from the heavens, it was Rex Lapis giving a rambunctious chortle. Aether blinked in confusion and sagged, remembering the times of a broke man living as a parasite by leeching off a certain Funeral director.

With all that wisdom, there was always Zhongli.

"Was I really that bad at easing the tension?" The dragon leaned down to Aether and Qiqi's level, its head still gazing at them. "Apologies. Seeing how tightly your hand gripped your sword's hilt, I thought it was best to calm the atmosphere a little."

Aether smiled, and he scratched his head as he thought through what to say. "Honestly, me too. It's not every day that a mortal like me can converse with a god so casually, let alone be sarcastic to one. It felt nice anyway." Any soul here could interpret that it was an honor to do so, but Aether missed Zhongli's calming voice.

He really wanted to taste the Osmanthus wine that Zhongli kept griping about every minute when there was no serious conversation between them.

Finally relieving himself of the tension and memories, Aether decided it was best to remain calm towards an Archon of immense strength. One wrong slight could send him flying into the stratosphere, or the underground surpassing the Abyss where no one would ever hear from him again. He would be lucky if he had the opportunity to say hi to Azdhaha at least.

"It seems I got ahead of myself, apologies. Still, I wish to learn of your name, Traveler. I haven't had the pleasure."

Aether smiled again, and extended a hand in greeting. "I'm just a wandering adventurer, Efir of Snezhnaya. My days of traveling are best left behind me. I'd rather move on from the past." And the mistakes he made, Aether best said nothing of that.

The Exuvia said nothing, and Aether held his breath for what was to come. Instead of nodding in agreement, or a growl of disapproval, the massive dragon placed its forelegs on the street, and the Exuvia glowed brightly. What came next both surprised Aether and the rest of those around them.

If there was one thing to say in this situation, it was that Aether could admit that Zhongli certainly had style.

When an image of a god comes into mind, the people of Mondstadt would say a kind and gentle soul. Inazuma would undoubtedly say a stern face, with roaring thunder behind them. But Liyue certainly won the lottery.

Rippling muscles seemingly made out of the strongest metal, a sleeveless coat in the purest of white, a hood that hid the exuberance of divine wisdom and stern beauty, and the awe-like glow between the gold runic lines that stretched throughout his arms like veins made of gold.

This was no funeral consultant. This was a victor of the Archon War and the being that stood for countless millennia. Rex Lapis exuded power, but it was calming as well. The golden aura that surrounded him was near blinding, but Aether could not help but stare.

Sometimes he felt cheated. Where was this awe-inspiring version of Zhongli that demanded respect? All he got was an old man scrounging for extra Mora, evading his payment with logic pulled straight out of his ass, and constantly hounding his poor boss for more pay. It wasn't fair at all.

"Moving forward, and leaving the past behind. Everyone could say the same." Rex Lapis gave a smile that could make any mortal woman melt, with the clear exception of Yanfei, Ningguang, and Qiqi. The Archon extended a hand as well. "It seems there is much to discuss."

Ganyu was too preoccupied with Xiao to care much about what was going on. In fact, it hadn't registered with the Qilin that her favored lord had just arrived to grace them with his rare presence. All she knows is that when the Prime Adepti arrived, a mortal talked casually towards what was a literal representation of order and power, and nothing else.

"Wait! Wait! Hold your horses!"

A voice thundered behind them. It was Yanfei, and Aether flinched when she marched towards them. Her eyes were fixated on him, but it would flicker towards Rex Lapis as well.

"Apologies for being so rude, Prime Adepti," she nodded at the towering form of Rex Lapis. "But this man has to answer for his crimes."

Qiqi, hearing those words and feeling the cold sensation of Yanfei towards Aether, shifted her attention off the butterfly and blankly stared at Yanfei.

"Oh?" Rex Lapis gave a knowing smile. "What crimes must he be charged with exactly?"

This caught Yanfei off. "W-what? But he-they destroyed the Arsenal! Endangered many lives! Heck, there must've been people already hurt!" She glared at Aether. "And this man gets to walk it all off? No chance. Not when I'm

around."

The little zombie beside him froze, as if she was back in her amber prison.

Seeing this, Aether placed a comforting hand on her head. "Calm down. Let me handle this." He gave her a kind smile. It was a tired one, but a genuine smile nonetheless.

Having faith in Aether, Qiqi relaxed.

It was Ningguang who was rather not pleased. "Excuse me? Who are you exactly?"

Caught off-guard by the small child's tone, Yanfei stuttered. "W-well, I'm Yanfei, a student of the law-"

"A student?" Ningguang exclaimed, bewildered at the sheer audacity of this woman. "What right does a student have to accuse a man like Mister Aether?" Stepping forth boldly, even when Aether tried to stop her, Ningguang marched forward towards Yanfei.

Yanfei, for her part, was rather uneasy. And when the small child was a mere foot in front of her, she noticed how small the girl was, Ningguang barely reached her neck.

"I have no license," Yanfei admitted. "But I do know the law better than anyone else here!"

Rex Lapis coughed into his hand, quirking a brow at her bold claim.

"I-I mean, apart from the Prime Adepti, of course!" She laughed nervously. "What I meant to say was that Mister Efir- Aether? What was it again?"

Ningguang was about to say his name, but Aether coughed, giving her a look that he would explain later. Her red eyes looked in worry, but she nodded.

"Efir." Aether smiled. "She just pronounces it differently."

"-Efir then. What I meant to say was that he had no right to act selfishly. He endangered an entire area! Good thing that rush hour ended before the explosion happened, or else more people would get hurt!"

"Not necessarily," Rex Lapis said, gesturing a free arm above them. "I've sensed a power surge within the Arsenal and acted immediately. I'm still under contract to protect Liyue after all. No mortal has to worry, not when I'm watching." Aether was gobsmacked at how he missed that.

So did everyone else apparently.

The people that were in the street stared above the sky in awe. Around the crater, the Arsenal itself was surrounded by a cylinder-shaped wall, reminiscent of Zhongli's personal shield. It was tall, so tall that it pierced the heavens above. Aether could barely see where it ended above the clouds. It was a pillar of translucent gold and black, towering over the harbor.

It certainly would be a sight to see, and the people would whisper of Rex Lapis' might for years to come. No mortal in recent years had witnessed a personal showcase of his power. Soon, tales of the pillar of light that could be seen far and wide would be written in the history books.

"W-ha- How?!" Yanfei was awestruck at something she could not comprehend. "The area of coverage is impressive alone, but to hold it steady without it being noticed?! This is something else entirely..."

Aether nodded as well, staring above with a noticeable smile at his face. With this, it was proven that he needed the aid of the Archons. With this protection alone...

His eyes widened impeccably. With the help of the Geo Archon, he could effectively render sieges useless. No more worrying about the defenses, or the safety of the people. With a sturdy magical wall, it was only possible for other gods to effectively counter it.

But gods themselves are few in number. With their endless armies, they would be useless in taking cities. All Aether had to worry about was how to fight back.

Suddenly, there was a massive shuffling of feet behind them on the streets near the Arsenal, dozens of residents were watching in awe. They were unharmed, and some even had shields around them!

Heck, one of them even freaked out when he saw the glow around his body.

This left Yanfei speechless, and when Ningguang snapped out of her stupor, she continued her assault. "People will get hurt," The girl muttered. "But in the end, people won't care if a country-bumpkin like me gets hurt. Why should they? They were not the ones being kidnapped in the middle of the night! They aren't vulnerable and weak like me!"

Aether frowned at Ningguang's words. She wasn't weak, and yet he reminded himself that she was still a child, not the brightest star of the Liyue Qixing. The richest and craftiest woman he ever knew.

Yanfei flinched, but she tried to reply in her defense. Before she did, Ningguang pointed an accusatory finger at her. "No, they won't! Not you! Not the Millelith! And most certainly not the gods!" The little girl gave Rex Lapis a sorry look, but the god was just surprised, and gestured her to continue.

With the blessing of Rex Lapis himself, and the encouraging smile given by Aether, Ningguang found her motivation to pour her feelings out. "I was alone. I felt cold, it was dark, and I don't want to feel that terrible sensation again! I didn't know what to do. I was lost, alone again, in this big city that seems to consume me every moment. I don't know why or how, but when I awoke, I all felt was fear and terror." She smiled, her lips wide enough to reach her teary eyes. "When I saw a shade of gold within the darkness, my heart couldn't take it. I felt alive, knowing that someone- a person that cared -came to look for me! I never felt so relieved, so joyous."

She blushed, but her eyes remained determined. "I know what he did was wrong. I know that it was against the law. But when has the law itself worked against saving me, what more could I hope and ask for than his efforts?"

Yanfei was silent, watching with guilty eyes at the girl's words. "I know- I believed that this was not the ideal solution," Yanfei said, her eyes downward. "I tried to stop him, and maybe he was right that I have no say in the matter. I don't know you, I never knew there was a kidnapping nor that you were endangered."

The adepti sighed, "But still, there must be a sort of repercussion against him. Not by me, of course." Yanfei held her hands up in surrender when Ningguang snapped her glare at her once more. "There are more powerful people that might try to find him guilty, no matter what you or I say."

"Considering how corrupt one of them is." She whispered the last part. "What he did was admirable, I know. I'm still processing it- this." She gestured around her, the destruction, the safe people, and the smoke rising above. "I can't help but feel jealous."

The adepti stared at him, and Aether found himself rather self-conscious about it. "I hate that I couldn't do anything, I couldn't say anything against this, all I could do was watch and- I suppose I did feel a bit vindictive."

Rex Lapis crossed his arms and observed Ningguang carefully. "I'm afraid that she is right, the Qixing won't let this slide. Not even I have a say, as I vowed to only give advice that moment forward when I announced the Rite of Descension and the long signed contract with the Qixing." He closed his eyes, his calm face betraying the frustration within. "It was only right, as the people of Liyue must know how to stand on their own. The contract states that I still have to intervene in matters of mortal or divine origins, but when it comes to something mostly related to a personal vendetta against you, I have no say. It will only lose the faith of all the people if I favored a single person over the rest of Liyue."

He gave Yanfei an apologetic look. "If I were to take my authority within the city once again, it would only paint me in a terrible light between the Qixing and the other Adepti. It was a contract, after all. The Rite of Descension is my only way to compromise the progress of the city on the Qixing's hand, and to still let my influence go hand in hand

annually."

Rex Lapis gave a sideward glance at Aether. "But if a powerful Qixing member created a campaign against you, with all this destruction and wanton violence, he could effectively create a scapegoat for his own crimes, no matter what I say. The people will believe whatever lies are spread, as long as they have the power and influence to do that." Rex Lapis opened his eyes, only to reveal an old and tired soul within them. "It seems I failed. Effort is to be made if I endeavor to fix this mistake."

Aether's heart leaped in fear. But he could not bring himself to offer comforting words, or anything to give the mindset of Zhongli's retirement back. He hated that he felt relieved when Rex Lapis seemed firm in staying by Liyue's side considering the latest developments.

It shouldn't have escalated this far. Ningguang was never meant to come to the city this early, nor was she meant to be kidnapped. Moreover, whoever brought the Mist Guard here, alongside the reluctant gang of Sheng, and planned a sort of chaotic infiltration would not have been prevalent until Ningguang rose to power, and expelled whatever form of dissent was in Liyue.

Aether basically did something worse in Liyue than he had at the cliffs. And he hated himself for feeling relieved.

"But what would happen to Mister Aether?" Ningguang's scared voice pulled him out of whatever thoughts he had. "Would they hurt him?" The fear and uncertainty of Ningguang's tone made him frown.

"Well, honestly, it's either the noose or banishment." Yanfei pondered casually, not noticing how pale Ningguang had become. "I could file a case of defense... but I'm not a licensed legal adviser." She shrugged helplessly. "Who knew?"

Rex Lapis could only grunt in agreement. "Not only that, but the narrative could change in the Qixing's favor. Especially with the one I am certain was behind all this, inviting cultists to Liyue and making a grand standing with a foreign power. He would wipe his hand clean of this mess and pretend that nothing happened. Nothing much we could do, or at least there is nothing to effectively and legally fight back. Not if the people of Liyue are behind him."

Aether frowned, but accepted it. Rex Lapis was a god, and if he were to favor one among the many that might have been hurt in his haste to save Ningguang, it could certainly create a divide within the harbor. Something that he will not, and never directly cause.

"But- B-but!" The poor girl was now hysterical. "Mister- He didn't- But why? That's not right! It's not fair."

Amber eyes stared intently at Ningguang. "Nothing is, I'm afraid. As long as there is justice, there is injustice as well." The echoes of a woman's voice ringed from afar. Shaking his head, Rex Lapis nodded. "The case of this incident could take years in the making, but if the scapegoat can't be found..."

Realizing where this was going, Yanfei nodded as well, slamming a fist on her hand in the sense of eureka. "That's right, the Qixing could certainly holler and wail, but unless they find a scapegoat, the matter would be forgotten in a few years."

"A-a few years?" Ningguang's voice was getting smaller. "But- Mister Aether-! Do you mean...?!" Tears were in her eyes as she looked back at him, tightly hugging her bag that was gifted to her.

Aether gave a mirthless laugh. "Well, I was always planning to leave, wasn't I?" He scratched his head in thought. "Though, it was a little earlier than I planned but-"

White and gold slammed into him, and he braced as he held Ningguang in his arms. Her tears poured out, leaving Yanfei panicked and speechless, and Rex Lapis merely closing his eyes once more.

"It's not fair." She uttered into his chest, citing that mantra again and again. "It's not fair at all!"

Hushing her down and caressing her head gently, Aether whispered in apology. "I know. I did make that promise, didn't I?"

"A promise?" She sniffled, letting tears flow. "The one that you made last night?"

"Yep, that one." Aether smiled sadly. "I promised to be your friend. I promised that I'll always be at your side." He laughed. "Though it seems the legal system is against me, when the fires dwindle, I'll come back."

Ningguang nodded, her face stained with tears, and Aether felt a weight fall off his shoulders.

"Ahem," Yanfei coughed. "Sorry to interrupt this sweet moment, but what do you mean you were planning to leave?" Folding her arms, the adepti gave him a curious look. "Where do you think you could go?"

"Honestly, I have no idea." Aether scratched his cheek in embarrassment. "Is, uh, Inazuma's borders open?" He did not want any more trouble, considering what had happened on his last excursion to Inazuma. Whatever mess he would be involved in, it was best that it didn't occur this early on. That, and he feared meeting a particular sly fox along the way.

"What do you mean? Inazuma has always been open." Yanfei said, perking her brows at his weird statement. "In fact, in a few years, they're planning to create a sort of exchange program for the students of Liyue and Inazuma."

"Indeed," Rex Lapis nodded, "Have no fear, as the Raiden Shogun is rather seclusive. You do not need to worry about incurring her wrath. The commissions on the other hand..." The god hummed in thought. "If I recall, one of the big clans had a recent tragedy. The head family of Yashiro Commission is in a state of collapse after its patriarch perished."

"I see." Aether did remember that Ayaka's family was in trouble after her parents died. Ayato took responsibility, but it was still in turmoil. "I'll think of another place." As much as he wished to see his friends in Inazuma, with his time-travel overshot by a decade, Aether decided to wait until he came up with a plan and endgame to save everyone instead of rushing in blindly like he did at Starsnatch cliff.

And to his embarrassment, Liyue as well.

"What about Mondstadt?" Yanfei offered. "Seems like a good place to start."

Aether gulped, and he ignored Rex Lapis' pointed look towards him. "I kinda came from there recently, and I may have caused a bit of trouble." He shrugged when Yanfei gave him a really hard frown. "Sorry?"

The adepti groaned in frustration. "Seriously? Wherever you go, trouble seems to follow you wherever you go. Don't you have any friends to advise you against doing things like that?"

Honestly, no. Not since they all died, every person he recognized didn't recall him at all, unlike Qiqi. His friends, during his journey across Teyvat and whilst waging war against the heavens, were always there beside him. Fighting, celebrating, and weeping together.

Noticing how silent the man was, Yanfei realized her mistake. "I-I mean you could find someone you can trust, and confide in them." When Aether raised an eyebrow, Yanfei slumped in defeat.

Ningguang, hearing this, inched closer to his side. She could feel the depressive aura around him, but said nothing and bit her lip in frustration. Qiqi was silent as the grave, intently staring at his eyes.

Rex Lapis gave a nod of understanding, knowing how hard it was without those cherished few alongside you. The taste of his favored wine never tasted the same without them.

"I will admit, this is certainly a dilemma." Rex Lapis gazed at Aether's eyes, and smiled. Softening his gaze, he looked at the young adepti, and gave a nod towards her. "Are your studies over, Miss Yanfei? I have heard about you from your father's rather excited conversations on how impressive your progress was."

Blushing in embarrassment, Yanfei replied, "Dad was always boastful, don't mind him. My studies, on the other hand, are at a dead-end. I have to learn laws from other nations to finish the Liyue Codex requirements."

Rex Lapis nodded, satisfied with her understanding. "I have indeed put that as a sort of learning requirement, as to ascertain a different view for Liyue's legal advisers." He gestured with a free hand. "To give them a feel of how law and order works under different deities. Fontaine, for example, while not as complex as the laws I wrote, certainly placed a more loose yet strict system that changes every few years."

He smirked. "It certainly created an entertaining thing to watch every now and then."

"Don't remind me," Yanfei grouched. All those sleepless nights were still a haunting experience for her. She dared not imagine the sheer amount of complex systems that Fontaine famously had. To think she was this close to becoming an official legal adviser, and only then she could accomplish her goals.

She glanced at the adventurer, who was talking with Ningguang and assuring her something. Honestly, Yanfei felt a bit jealous of how confident he was at doing something illegal, and somehow getting away with it. Moreover, he was willing to risk it all. Her eyes roamed down to the beaming girl, whose ruby eyes were shining.

Yanfei huffed, as she frowned at the way the girl admired the adventurer. She was great with kids, especially when they were not as mature nor as offended as Ningguang, but she wanted more than just respect from them. Not because she was an adult, but because she was a hero in their eyes. Those admiring and awe-inspiring gaze. She wondered, what kind of feat did the adventurer do to impress Ningguang? Surely this wasn't the first time they meet, considering the girl's words. What did he do to inspire such admiration? She yearned for that sensation, that feeling of euphoric achievement.

But she couldn't. Not yet, at least. Not until she gained enough experience and more knowledge. Only then she could bend the rules for everybody's sake.

Sensing the predicament Yanfei had, Rex Lapis thought of a great idea. "Ever thought of traveling to other nations for that?"

She shrugged, "I have, but never really got to it. This unrest with the recent uprising of gang activities has kept me busy, if it weren't dealt with today, then for a few years." Yanfei wished there was someone capable of outreaching the law and bending it to their whims like a playtoy. She hated people like that, but if it was for a good cause, she'd turn a blind eye.

Ningguang gave a rather cute sneeze.

"Are you okay?" Aether asked, worried about her health. "Are you sick? Did this happen at the warehouse?"

The little girl shook her head. "No, I'm fine. Someone must be talking about me behind my back."

Aether smiled, and ruffled her hair. She gave a furious pout, but blushed and leaned closer into it. Rex Lapis hummed, and nodded with confidence.

"It seems I have a solution for your problem."

"Huh?" Yanfei was surprised. "What do you mean, Lord Rex Lapis?"

He merely gave a smile. "With this incident behind us, and with your studies taking a slight pause, maybe it is time for you to continue."

The adepti was still confused but nodded along.

"Efir the Adventurer." The god called out to Aether. "Would you mind having a traveling companion alongside you?"

Aether frowned, but shrugged. "I have Qiqi." He gestured towards the silent girl behind him. "She's more reliable than you think."

Hearing her name from the Traveler, Qiqi nodded without knowing the context. Ningguang peered between them, wanting to ask how they knew each other.

"Well then, I suppose you don't mind having a legal adviser traveling with you?" Aether's eyes widened after Rex Lapis gestured towards a shocked Yanfei. "She's still learning, of course, but as most legal advisers are trained and taught, they can handle your finances and your household duties as well."

When he saw how confused Aether was, he clarified his point. "Like your personal secretary." He smiled at the gobsmacked man, "You'll have to provide payment, of course."

"I don't mind," Aether said carefully. "Unless Miss Yanfei here rejects it."

A moment passed, Yanfei gave a deep thought about it. "Since the trouble with the gangs is over, I suppose I could travel." She stared at Aether, giving him a sharp look. "Necessary payment along with sufficient household responsibilities are required as Rex Lapis said. You have no property, do you?"

"Does a bank Storage Facility count?"

Yanfei gasped in shock. "What?! How could you afford that?"

"Um, adventurer money?"

"It's clean right?" Giving Aether a peeved look, Yanfei crossed her arms hesitantly asked, "You're no smuggler, are you?"

Aether smiled nervously.

"Fine," Yanfei groaned, feeling her throat itch with how much she was doing it lately, "I suppose if you could afford that, you could afford me."

"Please don't say it like that."

Yanfei grinned. "Justice is quite the hefty sum, you know?" She nodded with conviction. "I've decided. Traveling with you doesn't sound so bad. So, I'll accept the contract! You don't mind if I take a few things with me and say goodbye to my dad? Even if we haven't signed the contract yet, you're kinda my employer and boss now."

Rex Lapis nodded in agreement, knowing how dramatic and salty his old comrade was when it came to his beloved daughter.

Aether's eyes glowed with sadness as he remembered how Lisa reported that an adepti, also a father, died during the early struggles following the tragic defeat in Varka's Snezhnaya campaign. When he and Kaeya's company arrived in Liyue, it was difficult to watch a despondent and weeping Yanfei at a funeral arranged by a downtrodden Zhongli. How ironic that those two are here as well, shaking their heads at the same person in question.

Knowing how much Yanfei loved her father, Aether did not have the heart to even think of saying no.

He smiled, a sad quirk on his lips. "I don't mind. In fact, spend some time with him." Sharing a look with amber slits, Aether sighed, "I'll be here a while. Meet me at the docks in the sunset hours."

Yanfei narrowed her eyes, but appreciated the gesture. "Sounds great! I'll meet you there then." With her gone, the rest of the common people around them left as well.

A dozen members of the Millelith nervously entered the premise, eyeing the form of their god with fear. Rex Lapis did not mind, he was rather preoccupied with giving Aether more pointed looks.

He sighed. "Ningguang, why don't you accompany the nice lady over there." Pointing towards Ganyu who was still caressing Xiao's head on her lap. He wondered how the Qilin was still alive. "Wait for me, will you?

The girl tried to nervously protest. "But-"

"Trust me." He smiled

That damned smile. Ningguang couldn't help but blush, and nodded demurely at his request. "Oh, and bring Qiqi with you."

The zombie girl's eyes and head snapped towards him. She tried to protest as well, but was dragged off by Ningguang again. The poor girl remarked about how strong the zombie child was, but it was barely audible in the distance.

"It seems we finally have some time to talk." Rex Lapis approached him, and Aether noticed how tall the god was. Far taller than Zhongli, he supposed.

Not knowing what to say, Aether could only nod before they disappeared in a flash of golden light, leaving the ruins and pillar piercing the clouds behind.

The thunderous galloping of hooves across the golden sea with a gust of fury behind them could be heard across the plains.

Ignacio and his men rode like the wind, as if the Abyss were behind them. Gazing back, the old commander stifled a chuckle as he saw that most of his men were already rearing their thighs on the harsh ride south. His old bones hardened a long time ago, and he was born a half-centaur, as his parents would say. The ride was easy on him.

Unfortunately, it seems the saddle was not for all. Still, time was of the essence, and he could not afford his men to be so soft on this crucial mission.

They were the next generation, after all. His hard work and effort would be reflected in these boys' performances. Other veterans like his original comrades were still here, but they too would fade in age. Or in death.

Shaking his head, Ignacio glared forward and rode the hardest. Pushing his stallion to the peak, the old commander rode ahead of the group. This was the task entrusted to him, and he never let down the knights. Not once and not ever.

His little Amber was waiting for him as well, wishing her idol luck.

Just the mere thought of her faith and awe in his ability made him even ride harder, the dust and figures disappearing behind him.

He never understood her admiration, or her wish to be like him. Most girls her age would dream of dolls, lilies, or being knights themselves. Instead, his sweet Amber would rather run across Mondstadt barefoot, stained with dirt, but with a smile on her face. He gave her his old goggles, which served him well when he was still young.

Now, being far from home once again, Ignacio yearned for the times of simple happiness.

It might be his age talking, but in recent days, he preferred the ranch and farm with family rather than politics and foreign lands. Ignacio hated admitting it, but without him, the Outriders would quickly fall apart.

Even the dim-witted Grandmaster could see it, and Leone did not want his former mentor to retire either. Ignacio did not have the heart to do so, the poor man was already alone, left with predatory lions and beasts all around him.

But still, maybe after this mission is accomplished, he could finally rest. And perhaps treat Amber to a small fishing trip to the lake.

As the stallion thunder advanced alone, Ignacio spotted a wooden tower ahead. His burning eyes also spotted the rock formation over the hill, a sign that Liyue Harbor was closer than ever. Reining in his horse, Ignacio ground to a halt when he spotted a pair of Millelith troops signaling him to stop.

The stallion hollered and stood on its hind legs, waving its forelegs threateningly.

"Woah, easy boy." With a soft brush on its mane, the stallion huffed, but did not resist further. "That's my Rangers.

Good boy." Steady on his saddle, Ignacio greeted the two Millelith that approached him. "Good afternoon, gentlemen. I'm an Outrider from the north, sent by the Grandmaster."

Digging into the bag on his side, Ignacio pulled out a scroll with a seal of a falcon on it. "I have orders, you understand? The Qixing already let us in."

"No need." A grayed-out and wrinkled face smiled. "Your kind is respected in these parts. Besides, am I not allowed to say hello to an old friend?"

"Well, I'll be," Ignacio gasped, and smiled when he saw who it was. "You serve in the Millelith?"

The old soldier shrugged. "Sell-swords ain't as profitable as it was back then, not since that incident with the Fatui "Diplomats." Bad business that was."

Ignacio winced. At least Mondsadt was safe in the latest strife with the Fatui. It seems that they would have to spend a decade to fix their diplomatic image after the Delusion leak.

"As much as I would love to catch up, I'm in a hurry." Looking behind him, the rest of the Outriders finally arrived. "It's an urgent matter I'm afraid."

"No problem, old friend." The old soldier waved it off. "But why don't you take a rest? The shade is best in this spot. Why would you think we built one here?"

Ignacio frowned, "I'm quite fine. My years spent in the saddle hardened me, Lao Xi. It's part of being an Outrider, after all."

"I know, I know," Lao Xi shrugged. "But it ain't you I'm talking about." Pointing towards a sluggish arrival of the rest of the Outriders, Ignacio could see that apart from the veterans he brought, most of the young blood were panting alongside their horses. "They're the ones being pushed too hard."

Feeling embarrassed, Ignacio tried not to blush too hard. Fortunately, the heat hid his burning face as he glared at an old comrade. "I suppose I'll be a gracious commander then."

"Don't be like that, Chen. You can't shape boys like that. They need time." "Time is all they have. I don't have that luxury." Ignacio sighed in frustration. "Also, it's Ignacio. I left that part of me a long time ago."

White eyebrows perked up. "Since when?"

"Since my daughter was born."

"Ah." The old soldier nodded with a smile. "Our children change us, huh? I know they did for me."

"Ahem." The young Millelith beside the old soldier coughed. "No offense captain, but we're obscuring Outrider business. According to the Stone Pillar clause for the Millelith service rulebook: One must not obstruct a foreign unit with the permission of the Qixing. They have official business, sir. It's just not polite."

Now this-" The old soldier laughs and slaps the poor kid's back. "This is young Feng. Our best martial artist and upcoming star!"

"Fengyan, sir." The young man sighed. "And

I'm not that good."

"Aha, you see? Modest too."

"Ignacio shook his head in amusement, and noticed how young the Millelith was. He might be as young as the Ragnvindr brothers. How cruel would the world be if they had to resort to child-warriors?

"I suppose a small break is warranted." Ignacio resisted his smirk when he heard the loud sighs of relief behind him. Already, his Outriders were off of their steeds and sprawled out on the relatively soft golden grasses behind him, many of them whispering reverent prayers for the small mercy on their legs. It seems he may have driven them a little too hard.

But he did it for good reason.

According to the observations of the old adventurer, the man that Ignacio was tasked to find was a fast traveler, even on foot. And in a hurry too. Predicting that he won't stay long on whatever quest he was on, Ignacio was keen on catching him.

Gazing at his tired troops, he lamented that he may have overestimated the capabilities of the current Outriders. At this rate, the next generation might not exist at all.

The image of a brightly smiling Amber came to mind. No, he shook his head vehemently. He cannot fail his little light, not yet. Every day and every moment spent with his beloved granddaughter, she would always regale him of her dreams of following his footsteps.

Making a name for the Outriders was necessary.

And he did, for the past two decades of his life, he dedicated his efforts to making a unit that would roam the vast stretches of Mondstadt and be the shield to the Knights' sword.

But the current situation with the dissatisfaction within the knights, the divide between Varka and Leone, and the turmoil with the church made it hard for him recently. Never did he realize how white his hair was. He couldn't let Amber inherit that, and he never would as long as he lives.

"Hmm," Lao spotted something approaching further on the road. "Do you fellows have anyone left behind, Chen? Someone's riding hard on the dirt road behind you."

"No, we're all accounted for." Ignacio counted, and they were all here. "Must be another traveler."

"Well, she's fast then." Lao Xi said, whistling at the speed of the approaching horse. "That speed is something else though, faster than yours."

Ignacio perked his brow, and turned around. Instead of being impressed, he was bewildered as he recognized who it was barreling towards them. Knowing the person, Ignacio decided to warn his old comrade. "You might wanna make some space."

"What do you mean?" asked the old soldier. "I doubt they'll threaten the peace on the road. This is Millelith territory, after all." Not noticing young Feng slowly inching to the side of the watchtower, heeding Ignacio's warning, the old soldier stood his ground right near the middle of the road when stopping Ignacio.

"And I doubt that'll stop her."

"Eh?"

Feng gulped behind the old soldier. "U-umm, sir?"

Suddenly, what was a dot on the horizon became a monstrous gathering of dust and wind behind her. With a thunderous roar, a massive steed brushed past most of the Outriders, Ignacio, and Feng. Lao would have been smack in the middle of that mess, but jumped out in mere seconds before the rush of wind and dust struck his whole body.

The dust settled, and Ignacio broke out a wrinkled smile. "Well, I'll be. It's been a while since I saw her so carefree."

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

The second part comes next week, I'll do the rest of the AN there.

Big thanks to my new Beta Reader: Offered, for the extra effort put into this chapter!