Ei's Chosen

by Shinn of Destiny

With no recollection of how he ended up on Serei Island or the whereabouts of his sister, Qiqi, Relon is thrown into a world where the elemental regions are at war with one another. Relon's only question; how did all of this happen? Qiqi's only question; why are these girls being so friendly towards her brother? Dual-Vision OC x Harem (Sara, Hu Tao, Ganyu, Nilou, and others). AU.

26. Answers

A/N: Boom! Why is this 25k words long? Good ass question. I kept asking myself the exact same thing once I didn't stop at 3k. Enjoy! Review!

Since this has hit 100k words, I'm officially taking a break to work on my other stuff so if any of you are interested, check those stories out :D. I'll still post after some time following a character recommendation.

Also, if anyone ever wanna vibe on genshin, explore, farm, all that; hit me up with a pm.

Fanfiction Discord - nJxvDjhtZs

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Book One: Chapter Twenty-Five

[Answers]

Note to self; don't invite over a dozen people into his tiny room until he learns how to manipulate the size. He'd have to ask Ei for assistance on that later.

On his bed sits Lisa, Ganyu, Ayaka, and Eula with Kaeya, Rosaria, and Beidou leaning against the walls. At the odd square table sat the others. All of them waiting patiently as Hu Tao and Fischl seem to doze off.

"What is this, Relon~?" The Pyro asks, expressing her comfort without a care in the world.

"Tis a secret gift towards I, no? How exuberant~. I'd expect no less from thy fated beloved~." Fischl hums snuggling next to the Pyro as both sink into the comfort of the blanket.

"At first glance it seems to be a table with a blanket over it but upon closer inspection, it's attached to the table itself. Not to mention it's somehow exuding heat." Keqing notes inspecting the object. "It's quite relaxing." Finding the tag, she reads it. "A kotatsu, huh? Its function should be easy enough to copy."

"We don't have those in Inazuma?"

"No." Miko answers. "Though judging by its effectiveness, it'll do many of us good to have. As for this room, I have to wonder why you nor Qiqi have never recounted such during our time together."

"I've… never been here." The youngest murmurs with her head resting on the table.

"And I can't remember so until I recover my memories or I have some reaction to that Silent Voice Ei mentioned, we'll just have to wait." He shrugs watching as the yokai hums in thought inspecting the room to stop at his desk.

"What are you looking for?"

"Something to draw with." After more rummaging, he pulls out a roll of paper. "This should work." He notes grabbing some markers.

Returning to his spot at the small heater table, Relon with the assistance of Keqing and Razor lifts the cozy ones' heads up. Laying it out, he pops a cap to draw a horizontal line from one end to the other.

"My memories have been all over the place as we've already established." He begins to switch to a different color. "Specific moments I can't recall in great detail." He adds to draw five points along the line.

_O_O_O_O_O_

"This is what I've come to as my conclusion. As crazy as this may seem, please, hear me out."

He'd been picking up bits and pieces from Ei and Sara' own talk but nothing of interest had surfaced yet. Seeing all eyes on him along with zero protests or remarks, he catches the subtle nod of Miko for him to begin.

"Qiqi." He calls for the girl to give a hum in response. "If anything seems off, tell me immediately, okay?"

He'd seen that shift in personality before but never so open much less so suddenly. Her tired form, those droopy eyes. They vanished in an instant. Her posture straightened as did her eyes go wide at attention.

"Okay!"

Whatever training Sara and the others did to her, he wouldn't question for now.

"Each point represents a portion of our journey from Snezhnaya to Inazuma. The first point consists of my birth as well as Qiqi's leading up to our departure from the nation and Shenhe. The second involves our journey through both Fontaine and Sumeru." He pauses to eye Qiqi who nods.

So then we never went through Natlan. Okay…

"The third represents our arrival in Liyue. That's where we encountered Hu Tao. Something happened that didn't allow us to take the voyage to Inazuma. With Hu Tao, the three of us traversed to Mondstadt; that being the fourth point. Through events I can't yet recall, we eventually reached our fifth point; Inazuma." He leans back to eye everyone. "Again, I know we've already established this, but I'm reiterating this so that you all are aware of my perspective with where I'm coming from."

"Okay. So where are you going with this, Relon?" Keqing asks.

"Here." He places his finger in between the first and second point to mark it.

_O_X_O_O_O_O_

"At some point, the Harbingers unleashed their first wave which caused everyone to unconsciously traverse nations mirroring their visions. I've been trying to determine when that wave occurred during me and Qiqi's journey. One of the memories I recalled were of brief moments in the previously mentioned Sumeru and Fontaine. I met two individuals. One whom I met through another instance I'll touch upon later. Do the names Nilou or Kokomi ring a bell to anyone?"

"Sangonomiya Kokomi." Snapping to Miko meeting her knowing gaze, she shifts to the rest in the room. "Once a Divine Priestess in charge of Watatsumi Island's affairs. During our brief meetings, I often saw her with a Hydro vision. After the first wave by the harbingers came, she left."

"That matches with my memory of meeting her. We were in the nation of Fontaine. Water everywhere and structures much different from Inazuma and my plane's. So then after the first wave, she left for Fontaine…" He mutters.

"It would seem so." Lisa comments. "Qiqi dear, do you recall that young woman?"

Thinking for a moment, she shakes her head for Relon to raise up.

"From what I recall of that fragment, you became sick." He speaks, reaching past Miko for a picture frame to return to his spot.

"I don't remember being sick." She furrows trying to recall such a time.

"Seems like whatever you came down with made you forget. Not surprising. Some sicknesses have that ailment. Here's Kokomi." He points to the salmon-haired individual.

"Hey, it's us!" The Pyro squeals, taking the picture with little resistance from the male. "Ooh, our outfits are so cute!"

"A mesmerizing attire clad in a mysterious energy! I feel it! Its radiance!"

"Milady, you can just say it's nice looking."

"That skirt is much shorter…" Ayaka mumbles covering a faint blush with a hand.

"Seeing myself without my hairpieces is… odd to say the least."

"We'll talk more about that after we're done with this topic." He eases the curious group who relents. "What about Nilou?"

"I recall you two darlings mentioning that name a few times." Lisa hums in thought, picking up the photo for the others to peer at it. "Fascinating…"

"She's a dancer we met in Sumeru." Qiqi answers, gaining her brother's notice.

"Sumeru you say?" Kaeya repeats.

"Yeah." Relon takes over. "From what I remember, civilians were leaving and entering. So we helped her and Sumeru out before leaving. I'd bet it was after the first wave occurred."

"In short, your plane can give hints about your forgotten memories and even make such into a reality." Miko notes.

"That seems to be the case."

"So what does this have to do with your timeline of events?" Chongyun asks.

"Recalling everything, it makes sense to say that the wave occurred following our departure. It lines up with meeting Kokomi and I don't recall if Nilou had a vision. Qiqi, was there anything about her performance that stood out?"

"Water went into the air." She answers without a moment's thought for his eyes to widen as do some others.

"So then she's a Hydro as well…"

"It's possible the wave came but due to your intervention, Nilou didn't depart right away." Beidou quips.

"It's possible… Anyway, that only further reinforces the idea of the wave coming after we left Snezhnaya but before I continue, two things don't add up. The first is Hu Tao remaining in Liyue for so long as well as Razor. You mentioned staying due to work and Razor because he was wandering. But going based on that logic, you still should have left Liyue after your work was done, Hu Tao. As for Razor; given you didn't live in civilization, you still have a vision so how could you not be affected?"

"Well…" Looking between one another, both journey friends shrug for Razor to speak up.

"I too tried to leave. Without knowing. Wolf pack stopped me. Andrius left when I tried. Wolf pack could not stop him. They snapped me from trance and kept me."

"Wait, a wolf pack? Seriously?" Chongyun blinks.

"Who's Andrius?"

"Lupus Boreas. Wolf God. He took me in. Raised me with wolves."

"There are other Gods aside from the Archons?" Relon blinks, processing the nonchalant revelation.

"Yes." Miko answers with a shrug.

There were so many things that popped up in his mind from that revelation but he'd have to dismiss that for now.

"A blue and white wolf…" Razor, as do the rest, snap to Eula with crossed arms having been quiet until now. "Am I correct?"

"You've seen him?!" He gets to his feet wide-eyed.

"H-Hey, easy there!" Keqing calls.

"You've seen him, Eula?" Ganyu asks.

"When I was given the new vision, I was one of the few alongside Shenhe and McGruff who bore witness to the creature alongside the Tsaritsa. Very few in the army had the privilege of meeting both."

Hearing those words, the visible hope subsides as Razor drops back.

"Andrius…"

"Razor…" Lisa murmurs, moving to console the boy as does Hu Tao and Qiqi.

"My apologies, Razor." Eula expresses solemnly. "She has him under her command too."

One didn't need to know the severity of the situation. A child born without a mother or father in the wild. Found and raised by a wolf. Whether an animal or God, it didn't matter. That being was the parental figure behind the wolf boy. For them to also be brainwashed consciously or unconsciously, the regret in being unable to stop them was evident. As for the pain in watching your caretaker become controlled by the enemy… No one wanted to imagine such a feeling of hurt.

"I had just taken up my family's job at the funeral parlor when my consultant, Zhongli, was training me. It's likely due to him keeping me in Liyue for so long that I never left…"

Unlike the few who were distracted with tending to their wolf boy, others with more refined sensing capabilities noticed it. The faintest surge of anger that washed over the room. One glance at the male demigod, his expression hidden by his locks, made it clear.

"Calm down, Raiden Shogun." Miko softly speaks for the sound of his clenched hands against his robe to emit his feelings.

"Tch, I know…"

So much so, Miko. Yet, this feeling of rage… is something I still can't handle well.

Exuding a heavy breath, he lifts his head. Silently, he pops the cap once more before marking the timeline.

_XX_O_X_O_O_O_O_

"Huh?"

"What…?"

"The Harbingers." He begins. "The Tsaritsa." His neutral visage shifts to a deep growl. "The first wave may have happened after we left but that wasn't the first thing the Harbingers did." Another deep breath comes as he reels back his frustration. "Everything spoken thus far proves that the Harbingers made the wave happen after we left. There's no doubt about that now."

"So then what's with this double marking?" Keqing questions.

"The Cryo Archon instilled Qiqi and I with these new visions before the first wave even happened." Much like they have since starting this meeting, everyone's interest reaches its peak once more. "'She instilled you both with visions. As to why, I do not know but it is no longer safe here. I came here on a journey as instructed by my master.' Those were some of the words Shenhe expressed the day we left."

"Shenhe did?" He nods at the exorcist to continue.

"Some of you may be wondering how's and why's. Hear me out. Throughout this discussion, I believed that the Harbingers had unleashed a wave even before Qiqi and I left. Hearing everything now, I'm certain now that it came after we left. Those words ushered by Shenhe are a clue themself. It's a clear indication that she wasn't under the influence of a wave. If she were, she wouldn't have mentioned her training." At this, the Cryos widen further in realization as does Miko who narrows.

"Meaning she came to Snezhnaya of her own accord before the wave hit!" Ayaka answers.

"From there, she would come to be manipulated like the rest of us!" Chongyun exclaims.

"She was aware of the coming darkness and sent you both off…" Eula finalizes.

"She protected us…" Qiqi softly states.

"Which leaves two things in one." Rosaria notes.

"Why give you both the new visions?" Kaeya begins.

"And how did she have the ability to do such before the Harbingers initiated the first wave?"

"It should be obvious now, no?" Miko notes rising up with a hand at her hip. "Relon's insinuating that the Harbingers are either collaborating with the Cryo Archon or they simply manipulated her before everyone else. As a test subject of sorts before they launched the first wave. Am I correct?"

"Yeah. That's what I've gathered from my memories. The double marking is when they manipulated the Tsaritsa and the single marking indicates the first wave."

"If the Harbingers really are conspiring with the Tsaritsa from the shadows, then Snezhnaya could be where their base is located." Beidou notes.

"If so, we must ensure our plan of attack is without any faults." Lisa responds still consoling a stunned Razor. "They manipulated everyone in Teyvat. Their strength could reasonably be in the range of the Archons for all we know."

"If they've managed to manipulate the Tsaritsa without her knowing, that's possible." Keqing mumbles aloud in thought.

"But what if they haven't?" Hu Tao voices. "What if they're working together? We don't know the number of Harbingers and if they're with the Cryo Archon, then that's a lot of firepower."

"I'm not one to underestimate Ei's capabilities or Relon, but if that's the case, they'll have their hands plenty full with fighting against that ice Goddess. If these Harbingers' strengths are on a similar level as theirs, this will make planning difficult."

"Difficult, but not impossible." Raising his head, he looks to the voice finding Sara and Ei.

"Sara…"

Looking around, she enters taking a seat at the open spot next to Relon as Ei makes her way next to Miko.

"I'm hurt, Miko. I assumed that you would like for everything to be as they once were. After all, this would be a good way to get some exercise." She offers a coy smirk.

"Hmpf. Treating me like a child. How rude."

"We have the capabilities." Sara speaks up. "If the Tsaritsa is being manipulated, we can turn the tides should Relon and the Almighty Shogun free her of their control. If not, then we simply have to fight as hard as we have thus far. Am I right?" She offers a smile of her own towards the male.

Taken aback for only a moment, the surface of rage above the surface simmers before dissipating for a smile to take its place.

"Yeah. It's not just the Cryo Archon either. Andrius, the remaining lieutenants, the Cryo Army as a whole, even the civilians. We need to strike while the iron's hot. It's only been over a week since the battle with Trishula occurred. A window like this is one we can't let slip by."

"Relon… Lupical right! We save Andrius and everyone else!"

"Lupical? Is that a nickname?"

"It's Razor's word for friend and family." Sara explains.

"Teehee, that's the spirit Razor!"

"Seems we all have some planning to do." Keqing smiles at the jovial attitudes. "Where to start though? Hmm…"

"I'm shocked our kitten isn't freaking out over a possible meeting." Beidou grins for said girl to stiffen.

"Erk. Don't remind me. I'm just relieved Sara and Relon are here now so I don't have to deal with everyone."

"Pfft, you make it sound like a bad thing."

"Tis be an omen of a bright time ahead."

"Fischl, you're the last person I want to hear our fortunes from."

"H-Hey! What's that supposed to mean?!"

"Now, now, you two, let's behave ourselves."

"She started it!" Both point in unison.

"It amazes me how we go from a dreadful revelation to such lighthearted bickering." Chongyun chuckles.

"I'm not gonna get used to this. Ugh."

"Haha, if we're together long enough, you just may."

"Zip it."

"Still, it's refreshing." Ayaka speaks. "This light atmosphere I mean. We never experienced such a thing back in Snezhnaya." Looking at the princess, they chuckle in resignation except Rosaria who crosses her arms.

"This peace that we're experiencing now is thanks to Relon and everyone's efforts." Ganyu adds.

"Oh?" Kaeya arches a brow. "You've been quite thankful for a lot of things from our friend." He smirks for the adeptus' eyes to avert.

"T-T-That's…!"

"Rosaria." Eula calls knowingly with a sigh for the nun to smirk materializing her polearm.

"Say less." She grins with an eerie look.

"Okay, okay, I'm sorry! Just… put the weapon away, alright?"

"It's lively." Qiqi smiles looking around the room.

"Nice isn't it?" Relon wonders for the youngest fighter to nod happily.

"Regarding planning, why not leave it to our general and Archon?" Miko smirks.

"Yes, let's leave it to Relon and Sara." Ei smiles in agreement.

"Seriously?" Relon deadpans as does Sara. "Ugh, why am I not surprised."

"Um, if I may, I have years of experience and was once a tactician for the Cryo Army." The adeptus raises her hand.

"Much would be appreciated." Sara smiles as does Relon.

"Our window of opportunity is a few weeks before we are to report back." Eula notes regaining everyone's attention. "If we are to strike, we have less than a month. The sooner, the better."

"A month huh… Ei, Miko, is it possible for an Archon to sense their pet being vanquished?"

"Likely." Ei answers. "Especially if one like Trishula was imbued with a portion of their power."

"Hmm. So there's also a chance that they may be aware of us coming..."

"We have time." Sara notes flicking the side of his head lightly. "You've thought long and hard enough for one day. Don't push yourself."

"... My bad." He relents. "We have time to plan. Still, answers are in high demand." He looks to Ei.

"Answer ahead."

"Hmm, going off of the first thing that comes to mind, how about that reaction our visions had?"

"Ah, you're referring to resonance." Miko quips, stepping forward. "I deemed the terminology myself."

"Why are you taking pride in that?" Sara deadpans for the yokai to ignore her.

"We've seen that phenomenon before but never bothered to give it a name." Chongyun notes. "That actually sounds really cool in hindsight…"

"What does it do? From what I can recall upon coming into contact with Ganyu, my powers skyrocketed in strength."

"Precisely because they came into contact. When two vision users make contact with one another, their new visions exert more and more power." She explains for Sara to take over.

"Depending on the situation, they can strengthen the combatants but that also puts the area and those around them at risk. Such as with Lawrence and Qiqi. Their Cryo powers clashed and the Resonance began to freeze the land and anyone close to them."

"What would happen if two Archons clashed and emitted a Resonance?"

"They would need to be far away from the army and possibly the very land itself." Ei answers. "Given you are a Cryo and Electro, the chances of you surviving go up only slightly. Though it would be wise to experiment to see if you can combine two Resonances at once."

"That would be a big boost…"

"Given your status as a God, it's likely you'll manage." Miko waves offhandedly. "You do get the gist though, correct?"

"I think I get it. Because I have both, my body didn't react in a negative way to Ganyu's Cryo or Sara's Electro during our fight like it may to another element. Though against someone like the Tsaritsa, it might due to her sheer power."

"Good. Next question."

"Hmm… You mentioned a phenomena called Ley Lines. Can you explain more about those?"

"Allow me." Keqing offers. "I'm quite an expert regarding them at this point. Ley Lines are a complicated network of elemental energy that keeps track of everything that has occurred in Teyvat. To make it simple."

"So it's like the environment has a mind and registers the planet's history?"

"In a sense. Only when an abundance of elemental energy becomes apparent in a single location does it actually change the given area."

"Such as under Ei's tower."

"Correct. Some changes can be very minor while others can change an entire landscape greatly. The Ley Lines respond to the people's will as well as the elemental energy produced."

"With the Harbingers changing the world, those must have exploded all over the place."

"You have no idea." Fischl voices tiredly but more shockingly in a normal way.

"After we arrived in Inazuma, mein fräulein and I spotted several anomalies that we quite quickly lost count."

Offering his sympathies as best he can, a thought enters his head.

If we can manipulate the Ley Lines somehow, that may go a long way in making our lives easier and even save us if we ever find ourselves in a tight bind.

"Thanks, Keqing, I'll keep that in mind."

"Anytime. Happy to be of assistance."

"Let's see… This probably should have been brought up some time ago but…" His eyes lock on the Pyro. "What exactly were you doing with the others when we specifically stated it was too dangerous?" He raises a brow with crossed arms. "What if something went wrong?"

"O-ya? Nothing was going to go wrong silly."

"How would you know that?" He sighs.

"Because it's you. Plus you made a promise to Qiqi. So I knew it would be safe to be around when you came back."

Looking from her to Miko, the kitsune refuses to meet his gaze.

"Sometimes even someone as grand as I cannot convince that one."

"Not so grand if you ask me." Sara mumbles for Miko to snap at the smirking tengu warrior.

"Ei, tell me, what am I?" At his words, several eyes look to him as others go to the Archon.

"You're referring to being a puppet." She confirms to gain a nod.

It was subtle but he could sense the atmosphere change. Looking to Sara's attention on the Goddess, his eyes trail to her hands atop her lap.

"You turned Relon, my fiancé, INTO A PUPPET?!"

Feeling a hand slide over hers, Sara's golden orbs cut to her fiancé sporting that endearing smile he's famous for. Taking in his comfort as it washes over her, the elevating tension in her body soon vanishes.

"To answer that in simple terms; yes and no. I once focused my time on the meaning of eternity. To continue such, I constructed a being to handle any and all matters related to my role as the Archon reigning over Inazuma. Thus, Raiden Shogun was born."

The puppet's name was the Raiden Shogun? Both in title and in birth name? Raiden Ei and Raiden Shogun…

"She was a being whose sole purpose was to maintain the peace known as eternity and to defend against anything that would harm such. When I explained that I wished for my chosen to become the new Raiden Shogun, I truly did choose to do so listening to my instincts. Though, having pondered that decision for some time, I feel as though a part of me wished to preserve the Shogun herself. If she were to become blinded by the Harbinger's wave, I would likely have to combat a force whose strength would be nearly equal to my own."

"All the more reason to make a new Shogun. As well as instill yourself should something have gone wrong." Upon his surmise, she nods.

"Um." Looking at Ayaka, he nods for her to continue. "Excuse my interruption but if I may, Almighty Shogun, you make the Raiden Shogun sound more like an individual themselves and less like a puppet."

"That is because she was just that. An individual with free will revolving around the protection of eternity. As a peacekeeper on the outside, I remained within adjusting her attributes as time would pass."

"Control…? So, what can you do to Relon?" The voice being Sara's own as her grip around his hand tightens ever so slightly. Unlike earlier, her tone was without malice, instead it radiated more worry and concern.

"Unlike the Raiden Shogun, an empty construct molded into something, you are different but similar. Your will is still your own just as was hers. Going in with the purpose of you becoming my host, I wished for you to retain as much of your humanity. Simply put, very little as opposed to the Shogun. All I am capable of now is controlling his body. I shall only do this should the need arise such as your life, and by extension my own, is in danger. Elemental powers and body functions included."

"Jeez," Relon sighs, massaging his forehead. "Alright then. What happened to the Raiden Shogun after I took her place?"

"Now that's the million mora question." Miko voices though Ei pays her no mind.

"The whereabouts of the recent Shogun reside within a location I believe to be the safest. I say this not out of ill trust but in the event should one of us, even Relon and I, become captured, the Shogun becoming compromised would put Inazuma in grave danger."

"She… makes a good point." Chongyun responds looking at the perturbed looks on the other Cryos who relent.

"Hmm." An audible hum sounds from Relon. "I see. Fine by me. I've had free reign thus far except when it mattered so I have no complaints. Although, one thing Ei."

"Yes?"

"No more of those jolts. I don't need to crash into another girl now that I know those were you. It's bad enough that we have Miko's occasional antics."

"Hmpf. Those are not antics, they're-"

"Antics. End of story." Relon and Sara state in unison for the kitsune to twitch an eye in irritation. "Hmpf. Well, I've never…"

"Jolts?" Eula notes befuddled, easily missing the slight blush on the adeptus' face.

"Hmm. I shall take that into consideration. No guarantees."

"That…! Well, it's better than a flat out no."

Given the info he's just gathered, that could hopefully help stop future "accidents" but he'd have to wait and see. Now what could he ask? Those were the major questions except for one major relationship ordeal but he wasn't quite ready to ask that. If he does, he feels that'll take a large majority of time. Before doing that, was there anything he could ask?

Giving a quick scan to the others awaiting his next open thought, his eyes fall on the curious sister giving him their family trait; tilting her head.

"Qiqi." He begins for said girl to lift her head straight.

"Yes, Big Brother?"

"You're more aware of everything now, aren't you?"

"So that's it." Sara murmurs in understanding.

"I am. After you disappeared, I learned a trick to help me focus more."

"All on your own?" To this, she nods.

From what I've noticed, it's likely some kind of mental switch. Similar to Fischl being Fischl and Amy being Amy. The question becomes what exactly is her trigger? Sadness? Happiness? Not to mention, what does it respond to. A memory? Me leaving her behind? What if I'm overthinking and it's as simple as turning it on or off?

No matter how he looked at it, that would be something he'd have to delve on at a different time when it would just be them.

Smiling, he pats the top of her head.

Sorry, Qiqi, but this is all I can offer.

"Good job, sis. I'll be looking forward to seeing what you can do, 'kay?"

"Mm! Okay!"

"Now then." Taking a moment to ease his mind, his eyes refocus on nothing in particular.

He could only curse the other minor topics flooding him. Though none were of great importance nor were they expected to be long. Time to punch in the biggest personal question of all.

"Speaking of relationships, I think it's about time I knew." The slightest blush becomes ever visible with every second. "Where do we stand and… what are we?"

This was it. The moment of truth.

"Who exactly are you asking?"

"I think this one is for all of us." Kaeya answers the exorcist with an analytical gaze.

"Hmpf. It was bound to come around sooner or later. We can act all buddy buddy but that doesn't excuse the underlying tension, wavering issues, or even simple worries some may have."

"Does that include yourself?"

"Add yourself to that boat before you go around pointing that smart mouth of yours."

"Ah, painfully blunt as ever. So surely, Rosaria, you know that's not all he's asking."

"Tch. Obviously."

Looking around the room, Miko could literally see some with hesitance while others harbored confusion from the two's open thoughts. They weren't wrong. Relon simply wanted everyone's honest thoughts on the idea of working together. That was the first and as for the other, a quick scan of certain females clearly made this silence droll.

Ahh, romance. Truly a discussion not suited for the young of heart.

Wait. That wasn't right. Depending on the term "young," would she herself fit? What about Ganyu or Ei? They were technically "young," the adeptus especially, so how did that work in the algorithm? Hmm, thoughts for later. For now, someone had to be the one to keep this discussion going.

"Yokai, kitsune, familiar. Whatever you want to describe me as." She begins lifting off the desk she's leaned against thus far to walk toward Relon. "I am bound to Ei as her familiar but considering she's now a part of you, Child, I suppose I'm also your familiar." Eyes going wide, he slowly lifts to meet the woman seating herself on his right for something soft to press against his cheek.

Widening, his stunned form takes in the woman's casual demeanor.

"I'm quite high maintenance so do take care of me." She

"M-Miko…"

Looking to the publisher, Sara's mind returns to that morning not so long ago.

"Now that Relon is back, can you determine if you truly love him?"

"... I don't know. Not yet at least. We can worry about our love lives later. Right now, we need to ensure everyone is on the same page. Including Relon."

Relon is now the one wanting everyone on the same page. To know if we truly can work together… Lady Miko, are you putting your feelings on the line for us? Or to determine for yourself if they're real or not?

"There's no issue is there?" She asks lifting to Ei's neutral demeanor.

"No." She answers relatively quickly for a chuckle to sound. "You're not wrong nor do I wish to deal with any of your antics."

"Hmpf, everyone seems to see me in a mischievous light. I wonder why…? Oh well. I've never really cared about many things but it would be a shame for my work and the only place I call home to vanish. So I'll place myself as someone who'll fight for Relon alongside anyone else who'll ensure a future that leads to leisure and less drastic conflict." Placing her elbows on the table intertwining her fingers, she looks on with that famous smirk.

This wasn't fair. No matter how he looked at any situation, Miko somehow turned it to her advantage. So why? Why did he feel his heart tighten with every word? Now was the time to learn who liked him on what level. As friends, as someone of high admiration, and the epitome of romance itself. That famous four-lettered word.

Three zones he could imagine clearly. Sara was clearly in the far right. She was his fiance. Even if his memories gave him hints, he had gone into this topic with an empty mind of the rest. So how is it that the most mischievous one of the bunch managed to make his heart beat to such a degree?

Each beat following her helm at the front of the conversation left him in a trance. It was an odd sensation. He could hear every word despite feeling like he was underwater. At the same time, his mind hadn't focused on that at all. His eyes were glued to her. The subtle expressions and gestures her body made, the tone of voice like that of tranquility itself left him captivated. He didn't know how his ears could pick up on what she said when he was too lost in her passionate form, but it left him speechless.

Has she always been this determined? He thought she was the type of individual to give hints and let others take the reign until more guidance was needed. She had the experience given her age so…

Have you just been shy about going about things? Miko, is that mischievous, enigmatic, side of yours… just a mask to hide something more? Deep down, you truly care for everyone, don't you? When you reunited with Ei, that anger wasn't just at me being taken was it?

"She was after all my first and only friend so her words stood above practically everything."

You were hurt that your best friend, the one who you became bound to, the only thing you cared about more than Teyvat itself, left without you.

Once again, his eyes catch it. The subtle flicker of her ear. A gesture he's caught on rare occasions that consists of what could only be embarrassment.

Miko, even now…

"What say the rest of you?"

You're going to such lengths…

Raising a hand to his chest, it tightens in understanding before he leeches his eyes from her to the others.

"Putting my personal feelings aside, I'm a general. One in charge of an army. I do not wish to see lives lost but even more, I do not wish to make those that have fallen, their efforts, be in vain. I'm seeing this through no matter what. As long as our goals align, I have no issue with whom I work alongside. Although, if I were to include my own personal feelings, it should be obvious that someone has to make sure certain women don't snatch my fiance again." Sara speaks in a knowing tone.

"Sara…"

"I grow alone. No friends. Afraid of outsiders. Believed to be true wolf. Time pass, things happen. Realize I no wolf. No matter how hard I wish to be. One family lost but another gained. At bad time, Relon help me. Relon, Qiqi, Hu Tao, Teacher; all Lupical. Friends. Family. Come here, meet more I call my own. Catgirl, Birdgirls, Oz, Fox Lady, Great Shogun, Beidou. When vanish, I become sad. Same as everyone. Still…I knew he come back! I grow strong for Lupical. To fight side by side. He save and protect me. Now I be one to protect him. Friends or allies matter not. Wolf instincts tell me none bad here. I fight. For Lupical! And now for Andrius!"

"Razor…"

"Obviously, you can count me in. Coming here, I think it's safe to say everyone brought with them some baggage that was both unknown and unfamiliar. I tend to be a good judge of character from what I can recall throughout my life. When I came to Inazuma, it felt familiar as though I've been here. It wasn't until I ran into a certain energetic boy and an equally active Pyro girl that I learned a good deal about myself. I knew right away that my instincts related to voyaging made my thoughts on reading people a cinch. Haha, watching you young kids grow and mature these last few years have only strengthened my own resolve to see this through. I have no problem working with anyone here. You still need a captain to lead your ship, right Relon? I'm your woman! I've got your back and anyone else's."

"Beidou…"

"My goodness, what am I to do when you're all saying such things. Well, it goes without saying that you can rely on myself as well. I'll be honest, the idea of two nations uniting has been a hopeful dream but I could not help but worry over the rising complications our Inazuma was going through. Not to mention the rising ordeals that would spur should such a thing become a reality. Yet, one fateful encounter with two certain cuties were able to cleanse much of my worries. Surely, if young ones such as you two were capable of saving a nation as renowned as Inazuma, saving the world no longer seemed so difficult. I'll play nice with anyone you place me with. As long as we still get to spend time together~."

"Lisa…"

"I too! Um, well…"

"Just speak your mind, Chongyun." Rosaria sighs, shaking her head.

"I… I'm still catching up to everything that has taken place recently. One minute we're fighting against you all, the next we're working together to save Eula. I… I know I'm not the strongest or the bravest most of the time but I don't want to sit back and watch those I care about get hurt! Lord Shogun- No. Relon! I'm saying this of my own accord. Let me fight! As both a soldier and as an exorcist! I want to purify the minds of those I've fought with! So please, let me dispel the evil in Teyvat alongside you! … Um, if you'll let me."

"Chongyun… On the contrary, I don't think you're the weakest. No one here should consider themselves as such. Not just anyone would soar headfirst through the air toward not one but two huge beings. In more ways than one, you're so much better than I am."

"Wha…?"

"That's why I need to grow stronger. As a leader and as a friend, I can't get left in the dust. Chongyun, it's not a matter of me accepting you. It's whether you'll help me."

"... Y-Yes sir! I mean, Relon. Lord Relon!"

"Haha, just Relon is fine. I've told you, superiority isn't my kind of thing I want around friends so I won't use it unless the situation calls for it. Deal?"

"... Haha, yes. Deal!"

"Count me in as well." Kaeya speaks up. "I've never had a problem working with anyone thus far. Nor have any of you held what happened in that battle against us. At least, not yet. Hearing the truth, I have no reason to refuse."

"Just like that?" Rosaria narrows for the male to shrug.

"Yes. My cause is quite simple but it still holds meaning as have those that have spoken before me. Surely, you're not insinuating that you're against this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?"

"Don't go reflecting my own words against me. I know all too well about those conniving tactics of yours. I'll say this bluntly. No one and I mean no one controls me. Not some stupid entity, not even a God themself. I'm my own person. So listen well, Relon cause I'll only say this once! Just because my friends are willing to place their lives in your hands doesn't mean I'll do so willingly. I'm only doing this because I saw with my own two eyes what you could do and the meaning behind your actions. I'll fight when, where, and how you tell me so don't make me regret trusting you or you'll be the one who regrets it."

"Heh, never can mince your words can you?"

"I stand by what I said. We're fighting for the sake of the world. Putting our lives on the line revolves around order and trust. A nation without such things will crumble."

"Rosaria's right." Both Cryos look to Relon. "I won't question the simplicity of your choices nor ignore the truth they each hold. If we're to succeed, we all need to come to an understanding. Just as everyone did following the first wave, each and every one of us has to be on the same page otherwise it'll spell the end of us."

"As long as we understand one another, I'm in." The nun mutters.

Qiqi goes without saying but Miko, Sara, Razor, Beidou, Lisa, Kaeya, and now Rosaria. That just leaves…

The zones were slowly filling themselves in. Now came the moment he's waited for. It wasn't just him. The sheer density this topic held was difficult for everyone. That was clearly understandable. Yet, for these girls. Hu Tao, Keqing, Fischl, Ganyu, Ayaka, and Eula. They were possibly affected the most. These individuals who either cared for him or were affected by war on another level, such difficulty was incomprehensible with words alone. Each, often the first to speak up at any matter, were now the last ones.

Wincing ever so slightly, he places a hand over his face. A minor headache paled in comparison to what they were going through and he'd be damned to let something so small stop him when he was finally getting somewhere.

A little more… These memories whirling inside are yearning to know!

"What the?!"

Eyes snapping open, a gentle breeze accompanied by crashing waves sound out.

"A… meadow?" Sara murmurs.

"Ei?"

"No. This was all Relon." Turning to the still boy, they watch as the now standing male walks forward. "This was through his own will. What it represents, however, even I cannot fathom."

"This weight I feel…" He begins for the girls in question to focus more. "It's inferior to what you each must be feeling. We've danced around the topic long enough. Sorry for sounding selfish but… I want to know. No… I need to know! Your feelings towards not just this war but towards me as well!"

"Asking a woman to speak from the heart. Hmpf, how uncouth. Are you not aware that every woman is different. Just rambling on and on while listening will not work on everyone."

Walking forward, hand outstretched, Eula brandishes her blade.

"E-Eula?! What are you doing?!" Chongyun gasps.

"Isn't it simple?" She arches her brow nonchalantly. "He asked for our answers so I'm giving him mine the only way I know how. You do not have a problem with this, do you Relon?" She smiles.

"Eula…"

"This woman…" Sara breathes, taking a step toward Relon for Miko to stop her.

"Yeah. You're on!"

"Good. I can finally claim my vengeance. We'll consider this our rematch. Only this time, we shall each bring our best! I am sure to savor this as you…" Stomping, she launches forward. "Beg for mercy!"

Cleaving the air, her eyes follow the male having kicked away.

"Tch!"

Rebounding on his heel, he shoots off tucking in a fist. Catching him in her line of sight, Eula gyrates her blade in time blocking the solid punch as a resounding thud emits in the air.

"Surely, that's not all… you have!" She smirks, turning the blade for the boy to duck the horizontal slice only to get kicked in his abdomen.

"Gak!" Shooting away, he takes notice of the ringing to pay it no mind. "I'm just getting started!"

"Good!" Snapping his head up, he pushes himself out of the way as the ground erupts.

Getting to a knee, he looks through the small crater to find the woman poising her blade his way.

"Otherwise my victory will not taste as sweet." At that comment, the roses around her feet begin to freeze over. "I'll have you know I am not one for sour delicacies!" Bursting off a stalagmite, she swings her blade downwards as he narrowly flips out of the way. "No escape!" She calls as ice shoots for where he's landing to catch him.

"Damn!"

"Surely this match isn't over so soon! I thought you were going to go about this differently. Seems I was wrong. What a disappointment!" She roars, launching towards him once more.

"Relon!"

CLING!

"No way!"

"Hell yeah!" Beidou grins. "Talk about a catch!"

Standing idle with his expression hidden, all take sight of him holding the blade and the woman in midair.

"You're right, Eula." The soft tone quickly gains her attention as a faint light encompasses his being.

"What?!"

No longer is he wearing a simple black robe. He's now donned in an attire consisting of a red jacket over a black shirt,black pants, and shoes a mix of the two colors.

"Whoa…!"

"What is this?"

"It's as Ei said. He's bending everything to his will."

"I am a disappointment." Relon mutters regaining the knight's attention. "Not just to everyone but even more to myself." As he speaks, her eyes focus on the hand to see ice, so thin, that it seems like a transparent glove.

His attire's changed. Now he's using his Cryo abilities?! Soon, a sizzle sound catches her attention as she notices ice that trapped feet quickly melt.

"Here comes the comeback!"

"I see now, past me. The way I use my Cryo abilities isn't good." He lifts up meeting her with a wry smile.

Taking account of her situation, she attempts to wring herself free for her blade to remain as still as a statue.

"I'm taking control of this duel starting right now." As calm as the still flowing breeze, he sends Eula off into the air.

"Tch, how ru-" Cut off, her eyes widen as with a single stomp, enormous spikes of ice erupt from the ground.

Hardening her gaze, she flips onto the first spike. Reeling her blade back, her eyes shimmer with a powerful radiance as mist seeps from her being. One slice, two... Somersaulting over ice crashing into one another, she lands swirling her blade all around for the slightest pause to come.

Glancing up, a wave of ice shards near from every direction.

Reinforcing her stance, she runs a hand along her blade as a light envelopes the blade for it to lengthen. Mist secreting in greater volume, her eyes take in the momentary sight of Relon. All at once, a thick layer of frost bursts where she once stood.

"Glacial Illumination!" The woman's voice breaks through the air as a dome of light expands destroying the frost all around until there is nothing left.

Breathing a cold breath descending to the ground, she takes sight of Relon walking forward.

"Heh. Now this is what I am fond of!" She grins, touching down to burst off as his hand goes to the side. "Tell me, what is it that you wish! Simply to win?!"

"What I want? My goal…?" Blinking as she nears, the mist from his body ceases as static takes its place. "Isn't that obvious…?"

CLING!

"So you're saying that when I'm focused on a single goal that correlates to my emotion, I can use Electro."

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

My goal… and my memories… My memories locked away within a frozen prison… My goals as stagnant as lightning itself. Constantly changing once I began to grasp it… I've finally taken the next step forward…!

"Go, my chosen."

Electricity pulsating in all directions as does mist, his grip around his polearm only tightens pushing for dominance.

"I want to tell them how I feel!" Upon such a declaration, all of the girls widen once more as overpowers Eula forcing her away.

Skidding against the gentle ground, her hand slams the Earth for pillars to erupt forward. Leaning forward, he vanishes in a blur to become visible at the first structure.

"Hu Tao! Keqing! Fischl!" All three structures crumble past him as he continues onwards. "They've been with me since the beginning and they're still waiting for an answer from the me of now!" With a spin, he dives downwards for Eula to raise her claymore.

As he strikes, Eula becomes embedded in the ground for ice spires to curve inwards around them. Feeling the warm sensation brim with more and more power, he finds his body begin to lighten. He could feel it. The cusp of control at his fingertips. Emanating a glow from within, Eula braces herself as she's hit by a purple shockwave crashing through her own ice.

"To bridge ourselves together, Miko put her own affections on the line!" Eyes snapping up to him diving once more, she backflips taking a hold of her blade as she's forced on the defensive. "Sara, a mortal, was willing to battle a Goddess because she cared so deeply for me no longer fully human! Ei, an Archon, gave up her own freedom for the sake of her nation, her people, her family, to ensure their own safety!" Sent away to catch her breath, she clicks her teeth sending out shards of ice. "What kind of man would I be… if I didn't acknowledge such sacrifices?!" He roars, electricity dancing wilding in the palm of his hand to crash through the ice. "This beating heart of mine was struck over and over! How could I be so blind to such bravery?!"

Bringing up her claymore, she winces as the stray arcs skid against her body.

"Before I even knew who I was, I had the nerve to fall for someone I met within days!" Head raising in alert, the Cryo widens to feel a fist embed itself in her abdomen. "Ganyu's kind heart ready to discard her connection after just meeting me, her honest nature yearning for peace, her sheer beauty…!" Bursting once more, they clash. "HOW CAN I NOT FALL IN LOVE WITH HER?!"

Power radiating on an unknown level, he embraces it for a coat of lightning to envelope him as it separates from his body. One by one, Electro visages of the male surround the woman. Each raising their polearm at the ready.

"Now I'm beginning to see Ayaka and even you in a different light!"

Bursting one after another, each strikes in rapid succession. Forced on the defense, she conjures ice both on her person and around her as with every impact, her defenses are chipped away until nothing remains but the real Relon.

"Ayaka's grace in the sword, her noble valience despite becoming wounded to fight for those she cared for…! Even you, Eula. In such a short time, in one single battle, your very being captivated me…!" He blurs forward.

"HMPF! SO WHERE DOES THE ISSUE LIE?!"

"The issue is simple!" He pushes her off to clash blades once more. "Knowing that I now have a fiance and possibly others, do I even have the right to love her or anyone else?!"

"You made a sacrifice for the greater good! None fault you for that!" She shouts to push him away once again.

"No one except myself!" He blasts off crashing into the woman as ice and static rip across the ground. "These feelings I may have had back then versus now…!" Sliding across the ground, both exchange blows to lunge at each other ending in another clash. "It's so damn confusing it's frustrating!" Parrying a strike, he delivers a spin kick faster than she can react.

Soaring just off the ground, Eula snaps from her daze seeing Relon drop above her. Reaching past her head, she flips away as a bellowing thud erupts to ready herself once more. Through the smoke, she can make out the silhouette of the boy slowly rising.

"These memories have shown me various things yet I don't want to allow my heart to be swayed by just that. At the same time, I don't want to take away the bond that's already been established."

"So you were fine with forcing them to express their feelings when you couldn't even do such! The gal!"

"That's not-"

"That way I see it, everyone has steeled their resolve except for you. Our supposed leader. We've prattled on long enough. Show me how you'll face the hearts of us maiden warriors."

"... Tch. Fine!"

"Allow me to show the meaning behind the title of Spindrift Knight."

Eyeing the woman lower her claymore cautiously, she booms forward. Energy surging, he meets her only to dive out of the way from a vertical strike.

Wha?!

On a knee, he's forced to dive once more reaching his feet with the woman still upon him. Blocking and dodging, his eyes take in the force assaulting him.

Her stance has changed. It's… beautiful.

Every usage of her form held elegance. Not a single movement was wasted. Even with his increased perception, he had no difficulty in keeping up. If anything, it was as if time had slowed to nearly a standstill as his vermilion eyes absorbed every part of her body in action. He was entranced by the sheer artistry that was Eula Lawrence.

Breath hitching, he barely blocks a swing for the force to swipe away his weapon from his grasp as he skids to the ground. Wincing, he's about to get up when he feels a single finger poke the top of his head.

"Victory is mine." As kind and gentle as when she had embraced him, her voice eases the tension in his body as he falls back. The secretion of elements finally disperses as he takes in the woman's form.

"What… was that?"

"The real Eula Lawrence. Not that disgusting show of fighting my entity forced me subconsciously to use. Every art of fighting originates from inspiration. I incorporate dance into my skills. Tell me, what did you think?"

"Honestly, I was mesmerized." He breathes out accepting the offered hand.

"And that is all we wish to hear." She answers as they discard their weapons into particles.

"Huh?"

"Words and actions do speak volumes but honesty from the heart and soul emanates something far more grand than either actions alone fail to compare. All three together never fail. Surely you noticed during our match." She smiles.

Furrowing at her words, his mind goes back to their spar.

"I'll have you know I am not one for sour delicacies!"

The offhand comment of what she adores…

"Heh. Now this is what I am fond of!"

Her favorite activity to pass the time…

"Allow me to show the meaning behind the title of Spindrift Knight."

Her very being. The meaning behind Eula Lawrence and what lies beyond. What she embodies…

"You were speaking what you felt through words and actions. You gave off a jovial air at one point and switched to something not deadly but still fierce all the same. Then everything became calm. Practically still… Yet, despite all of that, every word, every action held that honesty you just mentioned…"

"Seems you understand." She smiles resting her arms under her chest.

Through a convenient way of expressing her own feelings while assisting him, she managed to tackle two problems with one solution.

"Eula, thank you."

"You needn't thank me. I am your knight as you are my Lord." She offers a peck on his cheek to depart past him.

"... Huh? W-Wait, does that mean you really…?"

Stopping on a dime, she looks over her shoulder sporting a smirk.

"What do you think, Lord Shogun?" She winks to continue off. "Our next match will break this draw." She adds to stop. "One more thing if I may." Turning fully, his body stiffens at the seriousness she expresses. "You're not a disappointment." She speaks in a hushed tone. "So don't you dare belittle yourself again. Otherwise I will have no issue knocking some sense into you." Offering one last smile as she turns, she departs. His eyes immediately noting of an extra sway in her hips.

Oh yeah. They are definitely together now.

"... Will do, Eula."

"Awe man, didn't see that coming." Beidou sighs though a prideful smile of her own remains visible.

"Considering he was against Lawrence, even with his newfound powers, Relon has yet to have any proper training. That entire battle was solely him relying on his instincts." Sara speaks. "Quite commendable."

"You can't hide that giddy smile, Sara~."

"Hmpf. I'm not trying to hide anything Lisa."

"You didn't have anything to do with his polearm handling, did you?" Miko muses to her best friend.

"No. Not this time. Though this served as a good stepping stone. The feeling of defeat is a bitter taste none take pleasure in. As such, it serves to ensure that in the coming battle, one shall never wish to experience such ever."

"I suppose you're right." Miko hums. "Had it been you holding that staff, her sword may have been the object to soar."

"Miko. It's. A. Polearm."

"Whatever. Useless details."

"You. I swear, why do I still bother after all this time?"

"Ahaha! Did I strike a nerve?"

"Just like old times." Razor notes not at all surprised by their interaction.

"Not bad out there." Kaeya greets the approaching woman.

"Thank you. I still have a ways to go however. It's clear as we both stand, once he gains a better understanding of both his elements and his weapon, he'll quickly surpass my own capabilities. I shudder to think what he was like before becoming the shogun."

"An individual much stronger than myself." Sara offers a smirk. "If I am capable of defeating you, then Relon surely would have defeated you without any worry."

Tic mark forming, she retorts with a rebuttal of her own.

"Oh? Last I checked, I no longer am under the influence of a certain heinous entity so I believe as I am now will make quite the difference. Now that I've satisfied myself with Relon, I'll defeat you at a later point when I feel like it."

"Uh oh."

"Satisfied yourself with him? My, if I was the inexperienced maiden warrior you claimed myself to be, I would be led to interpret such words as you having a hold over my Relon."

"And you would be correct. It won't be long before his affections for I out scale yours, Birdgirl." Eula cocks a smirk for static to slowly seep from Sara.

"... I'm gonna kill her."

"Relon wouldn't like that, Birdbrain!" Miko snorts to dodge an arrow filled with Electro energy.

"Silence, you! Watching that match, I've been itching to stretch my muscles as well as silence that headache inducing aristocratic speech you use." Sara forces out a smile as a tic mark forms alongside ice from Eula.

"What was that?!" She leans forward as does Sara.

"I didn't stutter!"

"Looks like those two are going to have quite the rivalry." Kaeya chuckles.

"If love is this fierce, I don't want to be anywhere near those two when Relon's involved." Chongyun sweatdrops.

Blinking at the two women baring their fangs centimeters away, Qiqi ignores them to instead look on towards her brother.

"There is only one happiness in life. To love and be loved. Relon's been given the answer to ensure all goes well. Now, the question becomes can he do it?" Feeling a gloved hand gingerly caress her head, Qiqi looks to find Lisa. "What do you think, Qiqi?"

"What do I think?"

"Do you believe everyone can love and be loved? Even if by one person, such as your brother?"

"Love?"

Looking over towards the back of her brother, it was obvious as the sky was blue. She loved her brother. He was the one who raised her. Sara loved her brother. He was the one that saved her. Hu Tao loved her brother. He was the one that helped her when she was at her lowest. He cared for them all as well. So…

"If anyone can give someone happiness, wouldn't it be the one that makes everyone smile?"

Offering a tender smile, Lisa looks on at the idle male.

"Yes. You're absolutely right, Qiqi."

Taking in his situation, his eyes do a once over. All around him lie the remaining females.

"Regardless of what point in time you discern yourself from another, you're still Relon Lucinance." The voice of Sara resurfaces.

"One me. The past me fell in love with Sara, Hu Tao, Keqing, and Fischl. The present has fallen for Ganyu, Ayaka, and Eula now. Okay…" Taking in a breath to distill any lingering negativities, his eyes whirl around.

The easiest way to do this is to go in order. Meaning…

"Hu Tao..." Perking up at the sight of him walking her way, her skittish fingers press together in an attempt to mask her nervousness.

Stopping mere feet before her, his curiousness shifts to neutrality. Realizing his eyes momentarily lower to her finicky digits, she places them behind her. Though her efforts at hiding prove fruitless.

Tilting his head ever so slightly, he offers that same smile she's loved since they first met. With no resistance, he reaches past to take hold of her tender hand. Gazing at the skin emitting a gentle warmth, he doesn't react to its trembling.

Only then does his eyes peer upwards to meet her nervousness. Shaky eyes, rosy cheeks, and all.

"If I had to guess…" He begins as his words stir her from whatever lingering thoughts.

"We fell in love… There was some drama involved. A bit of jealousy and whatnot on my part, ehehe."

"I got with Sara. Some drama happened. A little bit of jealousy and whatnot on a certain Pyro's part. Everyone made up and I went on to have once fiancé and three girlfriends."

Recoiling her hand back, he can only mentally smirk at the look on her face.

"I was not jealous!" She harumps with crossed arms. "I was just mad that the first one you got with was Sara and not me!"

"Oya?" He scoots just enough to lean his head where she can see.

"Yes!" She turns the other way. "If you must know, I had to explain so many of your faults with Sara only for her to openly allow a harem! Do you know how embarrassed and shocked I was?!" She turns to point with annoyance only to stop. "Oya?"

Grinning a childish grin seeing she's taken his bait once again, he's now the one to step back as she shuffles after him.

"That's my catchphrase! You can't just steal something from a girl you know! Jeez, Relon you're a jerk!" She exclaims lightly hitting him as he attempts to defend himself to little avail.

"Haha, hey! You stole something from me first!"

"Oya?! What the heck did I even steal from you?!"

"My heart."

Blinking only twice, he watches as her eyes steadily widen.

"Huh?"

"W-What do you mean, 'huh'?" He retorts trying to ease the feelings attempting to resurface. "You stole mine so now I'm stealing yours. Again. I guess."

Watching the redness spread along the rest of her face, Hu Tao only looks on.

"Then…"

"I love you, Hu Tao."

As soon as the words exit his lips, he feels the force of the girl crash into him. Staggering back, flames encompass his vision as the hot red element encircles them.

"Since when…?" Refocusing down as she lifts her teary face to meet his, confusion appears on his features. "Since when did you become such a smooth talker, hehe." She giggles burying her face in the safety of his touch.

"I just… spoke the first thing that came to mind."

"Oya?" She lifts up, beaming that mischievous grin.

"Y-Yeah…" He musters as he averts his gaze to the high flames.

"Hey, Relon." She calls tenderly poking at his chin.

"Yeah?"

"Knowing Sara, she's already kissed you, hasn't she?" Hearing the key word in tandem with her teasing tone, he struggles to hide back the blush on his face.

"Y-Yeah…"

"Aya aya, even she couldn't wait. How unfair!"

"I think given my 'situation,' it's somewhat understandable."

"Oya? Well then, don't mind if I take advantage as well!"

"Wait, wha- Mmf?!"

Whereas Sara was calm and loving, Hu Tao held a similar sense of affection though through her soft touch, he could feel the giddiness behind her. Both times, with the other Hu Tao and Sara, he was taken aback by their lips. This time, he was prepared. He planned to give each girl his full honestly.

Fumbling at first, he soon falls into rhythm with her own lips as his arms snake around her waist and hers his neck. Pulling her as close as their bodies will allow, he takes it all in. Her tactile waistline, the faintest sensation of her chest pressing against his thin fabric, most of all her small yet clearly experienced lips. He could only assume they had plenty of time to practice in the past. The movements the girl gave off told she was no novice. Simply put; it was hypnotic. How could it not be? Such a delectable form of affection made most other signs seem palpable. He recalled no memories but just as his body had recalled its instinctual fighting prowess, so too had it retained the romantic art of kissing.

Mustering out what all they can, both soon break from the intoxication panting for air. His plane's Hu Tao must have rubbed off on him because his body was yearning for more. Not because he was becoming more aware of her hot breath touching his skin, but rather the glint in both her eyes and likely his own. Now wasn't the time, however.

"I love you too, Relon." She breathes, reaching to intertwine their fingers. "Even after we're whisked into the afterlife, whether together or apart, my heart will yearn only for yours. So please, until that somber day arrives… don't leave me again."

"Don't leave me again. Please." Those very same words murmured out in Chinju Forest spoke out as if in response.

"Hu Tao…"

Feeling their touch tighten, he tenderly releases his hold on a hand as it lifts her flowery eyes to meet his vermilion. Leaning in, his lips take hers for a brief moment. Unlike their first, this is brisk though the sentiment and feeling behind it remains as strong as their first.

"I made a promise that night, didn't I? I broke one promise by leaving everyone. I don't plan to break this one. You have my word."

"You better keep your word or I'll get mad." She pouts.

"Haha. I will."

Feeling assured by him, they force themselves away until their fingers remain. Breaking their contact, Hu Tao takes in a deep breath as the flames soon dissipate showing a ring of the charred ground.

"I may not be a fighter but… if you or anyone ever needs help, you can rest assured I'll be there for them." She smiles walking towards Sara and company.

Nodding, his gaze takes in the girls spread out.

Easing his beating heart and nerves once more, his gaze goes to one purple haired individual as he begins his short trek. Unlike Hu Tao and her nervous demeanor, Keqing sports a neutral look matching his own.

"Your thoughts?"

It was obvious she was a thinker amongst the group given her personality not to mention her work across Inazuma so the best way to learn was to go for the source.

"Sara, Hu Tao, Fischl, myself; that's four. Almight Shogun and Lady Miko make six. On top of that; now there's Ganyu, Ayaka, and Eula. Those include just the women you've encountered thus far equals nine. Kokomi, Nilou-"

"You're including those I've yet to remeet in person?"

"Yes, because you have a weird knack for making girls fall for you of all types." She notes with crossed arms. "I wouldn't put it past even Rosaria to at some point gain affections towards you if she hasn't begun to do such."

"So are you worried that my heart isn't in it?"

"No. I know it is. I know so well how much your feelings towards everyone are. Even towards me…"

"Then what is it?"

Not answering immediately, his eyes take note of the young woman grip herself composing the visible nerves slipping out. After a moment, she locks eyes with him once more.

"I don't want to be left behind. Not again..."

Her answer came swift and to the point. He could practically feel the pain with every word that left her mouth. Once again, the cause for leaving revealed more pain that was hidden beneath the surface.

"Keq-"

"I know it was for the greater good! I am aware that our options were limited! I've moved past being upset over at the Shogun! I'm just…" She takes an unsteady breath. "Realizing you were gone and with no answer or idea of where you could have gone; it hurt. Having you back, I haven't been so happy since we became a couple alongside the others. But… For you to become involved with so many, I don't want to be forgotten. If that were to happen, the pain that would follow…" Hugging herself, her steeled form breaks to reveal a trembling girl. "It would be unbearable…"

At this moment, he had to correct himself. It wasn't just the more mature women that could hide their emotions. The older ones like Beidou and Miko could hide it and none would be the wiser. Smart ones like Keqing… They could only be strong for so long. The effects of his actions showed just how potent him leaving her was. He knew how capable she was. This also showed him just how much she cared. Seeing her as she was now. It made him ache.

Taking a step forward, his hand reaches out pulling her into his embrace.

"W-What are you- L-Let go, Relon!" She pleads in a hoarse tone with tears on the verge of falling. "The others-"

"I don't care!" Her struggles cease. "Regardless of the time or place, you're always going to be at the top of my priority list, you hear me?"

"But-"

"No buts." He shakes to put space so he can meet her unsteady gaze. "When someone I care about is troubled, I'm going to be there. Do you think I'd just forget about a woman who's captured my heart?" He smiles to wipe at the corner of her eyes. "Especially one that's known me for so long?"

"O-Of course not! It's just… I mean, however-"

"No howevers."

"Wha? Then, what-"

"No 'what abouts' either." He denies for her emotional eyes to run dry though she remains within the comfort of his touch.

"Seriously? Your Hu Tao is showing. Reminder; that's not a good thing."

"I've quickly learned that anything Hu Tao-related isn't usually, haha."

"Ugh, what am I going to do with you?" She sighs resting her head in the crook of his neck.

"Feeling somewhat better?"

"... A little. I know full well what kind of person you are, but I still can't help but worry."

"That's understandable." He hums as both settle into the comfort of the other's touch.

"I won't lie, I'm quite surprised you came to me next."

"How come?"

"Well, given you've recovered a good amount of your memories, enough to establish a basis for what has transpired since leaving Snezhnaya, I presumed you would recall me as the fourth."

"The fourth?" Furrowing in thought, it clicks as his gaze goes to Fischl a good distance away speaking to Oz. "Oh."

"Obviously those two stand above-"

"I'm not picking favorites, Keqing." He cuts in. In doing so, he could practically see the cogged wheel in her mind. "Nor do I plan to."

"What do you…?"

"I may have met Hu Tao before anyone and Sara may have been the first I became engaged to, but I know for a fact that my past self never put any of you higher. If anything, I'm solely basing my interactions on past encounters as well as my gut feeling over such a thing."

"What about-"

"Qiqi is number one and shall remain there indefinitely." He answers not missing a beat.

"... Pfft, I figured. But, everyone. Hu Tao, Sara, Lady Miko, Almighty Shogun, Fischl; everyone is different and has so much to of-"

"Keqing, if you're about to devalue yourself, I will literally manifest a list of reasons why you're amazing." He deadpans.

"You know how to do that?"

"No, but I'm willing to try for you. Look, you're always off tending to matters all over Inazuma. When an issue needs to be resolved, you're always the first to respond so that both our friend's lives as well as the people's are easier. I can recall instances as well as have heard it from the others just how much effort you put in for everyone. That's a trait not just anyone can holster. Seriously, you're amazing Keqing. An inspirat-"

"OKAY!" She exclaims, shoving her palms in front of his mouth. "I get your point…" She breathes out to rest her hands against his chest allowing him to take in her blushing face. "Do you promise?"

Thinking on her meaning, it takes a second as a soft smile graces his features.

"Yeah. I promise I won't be forgetting about you or anyone."

"You better keep this." She murmurs. He'd make a joke to lighten her mood but those eyes yearning for something told him something else. "Hey…" She calls ever so tenderly, her hands digging into his chest as her amethyst eyes look longing into his. "Could you… say it for me?"

"Sure. I'll say it as many times as you want, Keqing. I love you."

Eyes glimmering in delight, she catches herself from giving a reaction.

"Again."

"I love you."

A warm pulse shot throughout her body. Not in fear of it being a lie or in disapproval of this being some dream. The pulse felt warm. It came from him.

"One more time. Please."

"No problem. I love you, Keq- Mmf…"

For some reason, he recalled a saying in a book detailing one's lips had a taste. It's possible that he couldn't sense it from Sara or Hu Tao but for Keqing, it was an undeniable grape flavor. Full of tenderness while rich in flavor, it only lasted mere seconds before they pulled back. It wasn't out of breath long but long enough that Keqing seemed content. At least, if her smile and blushing mess of a face was anything to go off of. Then again, unlike with Hu Tao, they weren't obstructed by anything and simply relied on their sheer distance from everyone else.

"I love you too, Relon." She beams a smile to embrace him.

He has to fight back his own blush from deepening due to her body practically pressing into him.

"Hey." Thankfully distracted by her voice, he looks down to meet her beautiful face once more.

"Although I can't recall much of my own personal life, I will admit that coming to Inazuma from supposedly Liyue and meeting everyone has made these last few years quite… eventful. When not fighting for our lives, there was always some challenge to contend with on the islands. Whether that was silly banter and drama, the often teasing from certain people, or whatever other form of chaos; it still resulted in a good time all around. Although, I never expected that a chance meeting with a certain boy would add other elements into the formula." She chuckles for the male to playfully act taken aback. "Something I hadn't even thought would become a reality. Still, with him back, I feel assured everything will be fine. I'll fight with anyone for him. For the sake of our friends' futures and for our own. Together."

"Keqing… Thank you."

Allowing one last breath to escape, she reluctantly separates from his touch.

"Now that I inspect you closer, that look does suit you. Go get them Mr. ladies' man." She winks.

"Please don't start calling me that. Beidou and Miko would never let me hear the end of that." He chuckles himself watching her depart.

Feeling a twinge of pain at the back of his head, he shakes it off. Giving a glance over to Fischl near the cliffside, he hunkers to launch. Feeling the breeze push against his skin, he basks in the momentary reprieve before landing before the young girl and her familiar.

"So, you've arrived."

"Sorry for the wait you two."

"You needn't apologize. The hearts of we maidens are precious. Our strength comes not just from ourselves but the manifestation of emotions experienced over time."

"Yeah. You're right." Looking to her familiar, she nods turning and departing for the cliffside, leaving Oz to perch himself atop Relon's shoulder.

"Relon," Oz begins. "Mein fräulein has taken much consideration into what you've requested of us. Even before bringing up such a topic, the thought and feeling behind such feelings has been at the forefront for some time now."

"Since I left with Ei…"

"Yes. I am relieved you are aware. Mein Fräulein is all of whom I've known since my birth. We've clashed at times over the simplest of discussions as well as the most strenuous. Regardless, where she goes, I shall follow. Her choice is mine."

Nodding, his eyes shift to the blonde. He was just now noticing but she hadn't spoken much since entering this plane. She'd spoken just enough for him to not think about it. Through his own previous actions causing worry over some of the others, she responded the same. Whether that was out of her own worry or not, he couldn't discern. That still gesture, those wavering eyes she held when she spoke moments prior, whatever she was about to say or do was just as Oz had stated. It was something she's thought long and hard about.

"You were the first to accept this other side of me. Not once did you think differently of me. You've always been there to defend me when I went too far. Until I met you, I only had Oz. Even my own parents disliked how I acted. I was so caught up in my own illusions, I never tried to understand from their perspectives just how silly I seemed. But then I met you. In doing so, I was exposed to a kindness I've never experienced before except from Oz. That's why… I too…"

Fischl, you were blessed with remembering your own parents unlike the others, yet as if cursed, you could only recall the moments of condemnation. I don't know how I could heal such a thing…

Parallel to his memory, Fischl turns to face him with a new conviction etched upon her visage. Reaching for her patch, his eyes widen. Placing the material down, her eyelid slowly opens revealing a radiant crimson eye.

"Dichromatism…" He mutters in astonishment.

"Allow myself to retell you a story, Relon. A tragic tale behind this eye as well as the one known as Fischl."

Feeling Oz hop off onto the ground, he can only gulp. She was talking normally now. Something he'd learned only 'Amy' does.

Fischl… No. Amy, just what's going on in that head of yours.

Despite asking such an obvious question, he knew only one way of getting an answer.

"Go ahead."

"My powers were a mystery for a time as far back as I could recall. Before they came about, I lived a relatively normal life. At least, from what I can recall. I had a mother and a father. The three of us lived happily and peacefully. There seemed to be no issues… until one fateful day."

"What happened?"

He could remain silent. Continue to be a simple listener but nothing seemed right. That forlorn expression written on her face as she spoke, her verbal language wasn't unfamiliar but the weight it carried was unnerving.

"Despite the normalcy my life encompassed, all things would have to come to an end. On my 13th birthday, a fire broke out in the small village I resided within. Much was lost including innocent lives. Leading into the next day after the fire had ended, much was left in ruin. How could something vanish overnight? How could something so terrible happen in the first place? Questions littered my mind as well as the remaining villagers behind what the cause could have been but, alas, they would never find out."

"What do you mean?"

"Days passed. Reconstruction was progressing smoothly. None had recovered from the blaze but… all were pushing forward. Not for themselves but for everyone around one another. I was often assigned simple tasks. One day in particular, I was asked to hunt the nearby animals. My father, ever since the fire, had taught me how to use a bow. A storm would roll in by nightfall so I knew I had to make haste. Oddly enough, there were also rumors spreading of shooting stars. There was a particular site I would always travel to in order to catch boars and other small animals."

"Only this time, there were no signs of wildlife, right?"

"You would be right in your assumption. Not a single rustle from bush nor canopy. No birds cawing, not even slimes were present. The wind was dead as was the area. Noting the approaching darkness in the distance, I was left with little choice but to venture further than I ever have before. So I embarked. Into the unknown."

Nothing about this direction made him feel any better. If anything, his anxiety was only worsening. The worst part was he felt like Amy's was as well.

"Further and further I trudged. Foreign landmarks quickly became recognized due to memories of spoken conversations from my parents and adults. Eventually, I found a site that housed a considerable amount of wildlife. Just as I took aim, ready to fire my arrow, voices emerged from nearby. Their banter had been loud enough to scare off my catch. Alas, I had to make do with what I obtained. Curiousness taking hold, I moved closer and closer. Never the wiser to the possible danger that I was creeping into. Through a bush, I had stumbled upon a camp with numerous thieves. It was a decently sized one. Seeming to house over a dozen people. Blades and other weapons as clear as the moon was that night."

"Amy…"

"Ah, there's a name I have missed being addressed as. Only two other people ever called me that. My parents." She breathes out loathingly. "No matter. Where was I? Ah, yes. I was taken aback by the sight that I began to eavesdrop. They had spoken about their recent heist. A small amount of mora from a village far off. Supposedly, they would have gotten more had it not been for a 'male with red hair wielding a flaming claymore' annihilating a portion of their forces. Then, the conversation shifted to one topic in particular. One mentioned their next assault on the village they set fire to."

"No…"

"Yes. The cause for the fire originated from a horde of thieves hoping to scrounge whatever valuables they could. Never caring for our livelihoods. Never giving a damn for us, the innocents with no power!" Fists scrunching in fury, he can only watch in stunned horror at the display of fury etched on her visage. "Filled with rage, I aimed by bow and fired. As simple as it was to release my grasp of the string, so too was it for the man that laughed at our agony to fall over dead. Tragically, I could not make time to fire a second shot as I was quickly apprehended by a thief who had snuck up on me. I fought, I bit at him, I flailed; nothing worked. Enraged over their lost comrade, only the thunder crying out for my misfortune could be heard over their beatings. I don't know how long they pummeled me. Hours passed slowly. Despite the pain, I felt dauntless. I fought back. How I held so much energy, I'll never know. Maybe it was the Gods giving me a fighting chance despite the odds. At some point, I was knocked unconscious to wake up alone in the cold, wilderness. I was tired. The energy that I held from my anger had subsided and I felt nothing but pain and agony. All I could do was gaze upon the night sky."

Taking a heavy breath, she turns to look at the ocean's horizon.

"Then it happened. I must have slept through the storm for the stars became the next audience and like the roaring nature that cried out for me, so too did they. A single light ray flew through the sky. Then another. In seconds, a shower of those same watchful shapes rode across the darkness. Mesmerized despite the pain, I heard a voice. It asked what I wanted."

"What did you wish for?"

"Power. A power so grand I could crush any that would dare harm those I cherished." She answers with an eerie smile. As if broken from the sheer sanity of telling this dark tale, she covers her face for a moment to compose herself.

"Mein fräulein…"

"Don't worry. We are reaching the halfway point of this story. Relon, please continue to listen. I wish to hear your thoughts once this is over." Steeling his nerves once more, he listens on. "I answered and it gifted me with such. In a blinking light, I felt a new power course through my body. It was as though the pain I felt had washed away. Attached to my hip; an Electro vision. Before me, a bow unlike anything I have ever seen. Unable to process anything, realization struck as I found myself the sole individual among the campsite. Rushing back, my body began to move faster than it ever had before. My perception of everything felt so slow yet I was moving at such a pace that confusion filled the back of my mind while the forefront was occupied with worry. Soon, the faint but familiar smell of smoke reached my nostrils. Hues colored in various reds and oranges soon came into view."

Hearing of the repeating tragedy, his hands ball.

"Once more my home was under siege. My family, my people, suffered from the flames as the thieves waited around the border to attack any who tried any attempts at fleeing. They were trapped with no way of escape. Either be pierced by their weapons or succumb to the quickly spreading blaze. No matter what choice was made, death would approach. At least, if I chose to do nothing. Once more, I roared. Only this time, an unknown power came with it. Gripping my bow, I fired. Upon impalement, the body bursted with electricity. Blood touched my skin and yet I never batted an eye. I fired again and another dropped. Soon, my presence was made aware but I quickly began to adapt, to understand what this gift was. Soon, their attention went from my home to me. I retreated into the darkness for when all was lost, it was my ally."

"Mein Fräulein…"

"Silently still in the middle of the forest I stood. Watching their every move with an analytical eye. I could clearly see it unlike before. This power granted me the ability to see the weakness of whatever lied before me. In that moment, it not only showed me the weakness of their formation, but it showed me that one thief in particular had suffered from an injury rendering their peripheral vision loss in one eye. What a magnificent ability. I could see it so clearly. Within the palm of my hands held the fates of those villains! Silently, like an animal hunting their prey, I stalked the helpless man. He swore under his breath of what he'd do to me, to my body, all the while unaware of his target being mere feet to his side. 'What a shame,' I said before a flash of purple bellowed. Soon, more would come to inspect my work and find the remains of the vile monster I slayed. From above, my hand radiated that purple glow I had made my safe haven. The unfortunate fools could only look up as their fates became intertwined. Basking in red, I couldn't help but smile. No longer did I feel helpless. That useless girl was no more. Now, it felt as though I had the power to change everything! Kukuku, that feeling was unlike anything I've ever experienced. The rush, the adrenaline. It was a wonderful feeling. With the sole purpose of crushing all in her wake. She was the chosen one, pure of heart and awakened by fury. That would come to be the birth of the Fischl. The Prinzessin der Verurteilung. One free of the constraints of her normal life. One capable of defending her home. The sole warrior chosen by the gods to rid the land of any evil that dared to show its face!"

"None survived though…" He grimaces.

"Of course! You expected such bastards to be pardoned for the actions they committed?! Inferior mongrels, every single one of them, deserved more than what I gave them! I gave them a swift death, not a slow one like I should have! If anything, they got off lucky for their wrongdoings against myself and my village!"

"But how did your village take it? How did your family feel?"

In that moment, he could see that glint of craziness peter out. With a breath of either annoyance or reluctance, he couldn't discern, she turned back to the open sea.

"No one knew." She answers in a low tone. "Once the massacre had ended, I noticed something in a small pool of water. It wasn't my ragged appearance but rather the crimson eye accompanied by my normal light green. I couldn't tell whether it was the cause behind my precision or my normal eye. Though I knew questions would arise given my condition. For the time, all I could do was use my bangs to hide it. As I returned to the village, I could only curse my inability to come in the form of what I would later learn to be Hydro. Lives were saved but my village was once again in ruin. My family and much of the villagers were relieved by my well-being despite my gruesome appearance. However, I had to make up the lie of my eye being injured beyond treatment. In doing so, I began to wear an eyepatch. As well as the bow I gained to be an artifact I stole from the thieves' camp. From then on, I relegated myself towards hunting even more. As an excuse to better myself with my new abilities as well as to become recon should more thieves try to harm my home. My family would become worried but I sacrificed my time with them to ensure their safety. A small price to pay but one I would do without any doubt. Time passed. I would learn the culprit behind my marksmanship-like abilities to be my common green eye. Which would leave my new eye's capabilities a mystery."

"Not long, however. Am I right?"

"Indeed you are, my beloved. Just like the night that birthed my abilities, another tragic night would soon come. In the dead of night, mere hours before dawn, I woke to an ill omen. A dream of death and scorn all around. I felt a pain resonate from my eye. I left the confines of our recently rebuilt home and embarked directly into the safety of the darkness. I was there that they appeared. Dozens upon dozens of hoarders lurked through the woods upon my home. It was obvious what they had come for. I expected it was only a matter of time. Manifesting my bow as I stood between them and my home, the battle began. I would recede as Fischl would take the reins in this battle. It was clear that numerous groups had gathered together to avenge their fallen. Who was she to deny the fools of their pointless effort?"

"You make it sound like you're two different people."

"Are we not? I do not bask in killing like she does. I am but a normal girl, a simple mortal. She is the one with all of the power. The way I see it, this body is more hers than my own. If she would be the armor of the body, then I would be the core."

"You're just proving my point. She fights to protect the real one."

"You're aware, aren't you? How fragile the inner workings of something is. I am well aware given my eye. Such as with Trishula. I could clearly see its weakness. I could see it falling lifelessly once those were destroyed. It attempted to protect itself. Fischl is no different from protecting myself."

"Amy…" He breathed out, frustrated that her broken logic couldn't be contended with.

"Do not be upset. This is in part due to you having lost a true understanding of me as a person. The same regarding the others. Our perspectives are simply too diverse. I must commend you, however, in pushing forward my beloved. That tenacity is something we've always loved about you."

"... Tell me."

"What?"

"The tragedies of this tale." He answers taking a seat amongst the roses.

"... Why?"

"Because it's as you said. How we perceive something is because of a barrier in understanding. I can only rely on our interactions and what I can gather from my memories, Amy. Tell me the rest so I can better understand you and Fischl."

"What do I have to gain from telling you the ending?"

"What did you have for telling me so much thus far?"

He knew she cared for his honest thoughts and he was giving them thus far. Given the climax of the story was near, he could only hope she would take the chance to hear him out further. For a moment, she simply stares. In seconds, the corner of her mouth arches upwards.

"Once again, your tenacity has no end in sight. Very well." She says taking a seat before him. "The battle began. Fischl tore through the enemy with such ease, it seemed as though a child could do it. Ahh, it was comical how so many attempted to regroup only for their formations to crumble each and every time. Their screams, the frantic pacing of feet through shrubberies, even the clinging of metal against the ground; it was music to her ears. Then it all stopped. They stopped. Slowly, all the remaining filth began to retreat. We were confused. That was, until a red light in the distance caught our attention before a loud sound shattered the eerie silence. In slow motion, a bullet of pure flames zoomed in between the treeline directly towards her. Fischl thought little of it. With ease, she tilted her head out of the way as it whizzed past her. This would prove to be one of our greatest mistakes. Behind us, a deafening boom erupted. As if that of a constant loop, a cursed cycle of misfortune, one of the homes caught fire once more. Screams quickly followed but time wouldn't allow for the mourning of the lives soon lost. Instead, we turned our anger upon the culprit, the murderer of more innocents!"

He had to bite his tongue from attempting to console the girl. Thankfully, a questionable choice of word, her scowl shifted to a smirk.

"A male of slim stature wearing dark red clothes along with bandages covering his face except for a single eye glowing red much like my own was the culprit. In his hands, a rifle already in the midst of charging another of those flaming shells. He fired repeated shots but our arrows met each and every one ending causing a smokescreen to appear. At that moment, we were reminded of that fateful night. The agony. Our agony. Our sorrow. It all once again manifested at once. It was then that our eye began to ache with a pain unlike anything we've experienced. As if in response to our growing rage, a beast wailed in hunger to get out. To uphold the injustice and bring about retribution to those foul sinners. And then… it happened."

"What… happened?"

"I was born." Head shifting to Oz, his eyes furrow in thought.

"This eye. This powerful, cursed, eye has the ability to conjure beings of darkness with but a thought as long as my desires match."

"Your eye? Wait…!"

"Yes, yes! You understand clearly, my beloved! With this power, I could create a void of darkness! And within it, every dark thought that I've yearned to unleash. Hehe…!" She grins covering her face to peer at the male through in between her fingers.

"No…"

"I bellowed in acceptance of what this eye wanted and unleashed the full might of this vision!" She gleams in an uncomfortable ecstasy. "The scurrying screams of those mice was once again music to our ears that it felt as though we could live off of their fears. All at once, electricity surged across the forest enveloping all within its clutches. In a space of pure darkness, they couldn't see but I could. We could see oh so clearly. Their fates were once again in the palm of our hand. They tried to resist but the darkness in our heart wouldn't allow it. Do you know what we parted them with, my beloved? Do you care to know what I decided to grace such inferiority with?"

The sheer euphoria she sported made him sick to his stomach. It took everything he had to maintain his straight demeanor. Even if she knew how disturbed he felt, he'd continue to remain firm. Even if only visibly.

"What did you say?"

"'Fall to ruin… within the silent apocalypse.' From below, in the further reaches of my realm emerge Ozvaldo Hrafnavins in all his majestic glory. A being so large, so mighty, the likes of Trishula paled in comparison! Watching Ozvaldo blur within the blanket of black was a sight to watch. Whether he engulfed them whole or battered them like playthings, there was no escape from our wrath! Trapped by our power, we watch with the utmost joy as one by one, their lives were lost. Then there was only one… That rifleman. Like the perfect familiar, Ozvaldo took place behind us as she approached. With every step, the darkness enveloped my form. By the time we stood before our victim, I became donned in what you see me in now. We had to commend it to him. He struggled to break free until the very end. Alas, it was all for nought. A single finger and poof. He was gone. We were back in the forest. The lone fire had been put out. We were alone. Yet, there was satisfaction flowing within our blood. Adrenaline felt inferior to this supreme sensation that was victory. It would be then that the price of using our abilities so haphazardly would come. As if stabbed right in the eye, we hunched over doing our best to endure the smoldering pain. The behemoth-like avian would dwindle to the size of a simple raven. It was clear that such backlash was but a small price for such a gift. I was grateful but I was also aware of the dangers of over using it. But…"

"That was when it happened." Oz speaks.

"When what happened?"

"When her parents appeared." In answering, a click of annoyance comes from the girl. "Allow me to take over. Following that gruesome battle, they finally met the one known as 'Fischl.' Expecting to be showered with praise, we were met with scorn and disbelief. Despite her bloody appearance and new attire, it was quite easy to distinguish who mein fräulein was. The very people that have shown nothing but love and support now bore witness to the battle-ravaged girl they saw to be their daughter. The village was spared thanks to her efforts but instead of being met with praise, fear littered their eyes."

"It was thanks in part to our combined efforts for saving those cretins and you want to know how they repaid us? Scorn and all! Every single last one of them!"

"Ahem. Yes. Both questioned what had happened to their 'little girl.' Questions arose around her attire, the condition she was in. They cared not for I, a talking familiar. Their attention was taken upon her eye. Her mother demanded to know the cause behind hiding such a thing. When mein fräulein attempted to explain, their fears clouded their judgment-"

"And damned hearing." She spits.

"To a point, mein fräulein was treated like an outcast within the village. Many whispers resounded around the 'cursed eye.' The adults feared what she would do. The children were told to stay away. Eventually, we would depart from her origin. For good."

"... Huh?" He lets out an audible sound, eyes buck wide, struggling to refrain from shaking in anger. A visible cloud slowly forming as a low rumbling sound.

"Hmpf. The same reaction as the last time we told this tale." She eases to gaze up at the clear sky.

"What the hell kinda bullshit is that?!" Now, he's the one to growl. "Despite your circumstances or Fischl's, you all still…!"

"Yes. We defended what we claimed because that was home. Our safe haven. Only to be betrayed. Alas, that is all I can recall. Aside from that black wave rolling across the sky."

"Wait, you saw the Harbinger's wave?!"

"Yes. Simply a black wave that rode across the atmosphere into the horizon. As soon as it passed, you could say something compelled me to head for Inazuma. Like something beckoning me. Or a simple call."

"Upon reaching Inazuma, we would find accommodations and eventually have our fateful encounter with you and Qiqi. Meeting you, I began to gain hope."

"Hope?"

"Mein fräulein's trust in humanity after that cursed day was at the bottom." He explains looking at the young woman not meeting his gaze. "I had hoped some divine intervention of sorts would occur that would allow her to regain something as important as trust. It was through yourself that she, both versions of herself, began to believe little by little. Fischl; the one known for her rambunctious energy, spoke in such a 'unique' way. Amy; the true host over this vessel and the real Fischl." He details for her gaze to snap down at the bird though she dares not back down instead shifting to Relon. "It was through you she regained trust but something even more important; friendship. Despite her memories of her earliest childhood, she cannot recall ever having friends. Whether lost forever or simply a gut feeling, if you will, she truly believes she has never had one to call a companion aside from myself. That's why when she met you, there was a spark. One in which I was hopeful and relieved. Even now mein fräulein may deny it, but that day I saw a look on her face I had never seen before. What would go from simply living in Inazuma to enrolling as well as rising through the ranks of the Electro Army became easy once she encountered you and your friends. Slowly, the evil in mein fräulein began to recede and a more bright version of mein fräulein would emerge. It became so common that simply one mention of your name would make her heart skip a beat. Alas…"

"I would vanish without a word." He mutters fully aware of the effects his actions caused for Oz to nod.

"Everyone was hurt and worried. Mein fräulein's heart, however, began to shift once more back to what it once was. With you, she had forgotten about her cursed past. With you gone, her memories of those tragic days became more and more easy to recall. She wished deeply to keep them forgotten but…"

"I understand." Relon allows a sigh to escape as his eyes fall on the prinzessin. "Thanks, Oz." He thanks, rising to his feet. "I'll take it from here."

"Oh? Now that you've heard our tragic tale twice, I am quite curious how you'll respond." She responds standing as well.

"Relon…"

"Don't worry. I know what I'm doing." He smiles at the girl.

The reassurance behind that look was more than enough for the bird to accept Relon's offer. If anyone could ease her, it was the one who's captured her heart.

"Very well. I shall await your arrival with the others." With that, it was just the two of them."

"He talks too much."

"No. He only spoke the way he did because he cares and is just worried."

"Hmpf. Get on with it."

"If that eye of yours didn't cause pain, I'd ask for you to envelope us using your power."

"What?! Don't be foolish! Why would- Ha. I see what you're trying to do. Clever, Beloved. I did not take you for one to take advantage of my own feelings."

"I have no idea what you're on about." He shrugs, walking forward to stop at her side. "I'm just doing what I believe to be right. Nothing wrong with that."

Widening for a moment, her eyes cut to him before back ahead to the vast meadow.

"So you're in agreement over our past actions."

"I'm agreeing that defending your home was the proper cause. I'm agreeing that you were right to leave your confused and fearful family when they chose to push you away. What I'm not in agreement over is you supposedly being angry."

"Oh? Do tell. Whatever do you mean?"

"Simple. Since I've been gone, 'Fischl's' anger has become more prevalent. If that's the case, then explain the other night. You said so yourself. Our 'pact' was renewed. That warmth from within wasn't anger. Far from it."

"Are you implying our pact has never held meaning?" She narrows, the accusation laced with hostility.

"Why get hostile, Fischl? Why immediately go to such an assumption?"

"I'm not her!" She growls for her slight scowl to lighten into a confident smirk. "Unless you wish to speak with her."

"I already have. No use in hiding it."

"What do you-"

"Leading up to your encounter with those thieves, you spoke. Afterwards, Fischl took the lead whenever describing what happened to those hoarders. You spoke about what affected you while Fischl spoke about what she inflicted onto others. The narration was subtle. So subtle that you nearly threw me off with how you addressed yourself in one point of view, her in another, not to mention your usage of possessives. Very few would likely have seen through it."

Looking once more, the once stoic girl now trembled.

"H-How…?"

Not answering right away, he looks down to ease his hand into hers.

"You should know the answer to that, Fischl. Whether you're ready to show the world the real you or remain with this safe guise, I'll provide the same support as I have thus far. To the both of you."

Tracing the palm of her hand with his thumb, he feels her hand flinch. Giving her a push in the form of a gentle squeeze, she returns in for their fingers to intertwine.

"But… my anger…"

"Vent until you can't vent no more. I'll be here to ease you all the same." As if jolted by his very words, her head finally snaps to meet his sincere smile. The sight of his eyes, his being, on her was something she hadn't truly realized she's longed to bear witness to once more.

In hindsight, it seemed as though she was simply running from reality. She did not need pampering or anything of such. She… just wanted to be noticed and recognized. And that's what he did. He was the first to accept Fischl as Fischl and Amy as Amy.

"Thou Beloved…"

"I'm not going anywhere. This time for certain." Retaking her hands as they face one another, his eyes remain on hers. "That's a promise."

It may have been from retelling her tragic tale or from him but for some reason, she felt oddly weak. Looking to him for help, she had to only tilt her head up.

"I require… replenishment, Beloved."

Leaning so their foreheads touch, his red eyes take notice of her own radiate a soft glow. Around them, all goes black.

"This is…"

Sure enough, just as she'd told in her tale, pitch darkness surrounded them. Though there seemed to be the faintest of purple hues giving some sense of being.

"You don't have to worry." Returning his gaze, he notes the verbal change once more. "I… wanted to take it in as me. Not Fischl." At her words, her hands fumble with his. "Such pain is immeasurable to the joy I'll receive."

Despite the darkness, he could clearly see the blush adorning her cheeks. Chuckling, he raises one hand as they gently begin to spiral further and further.

"As you wish, mein fräulein."

Taking hers, he felt the sensation of longing mixed with a love not from just her. It may have just been his imagination but it felt as though Fischl herself was thanking him.

For the anguish you've suffered. For the solitude you felt. Allow me the chance to begin to make up for it. Even if just a little…

Within her own domain while under the protection of the man she loved, Amy never felt so safe.

Righting themselves as her domain crumbles and color return, he looks to the young woman now mere feet away from him.

"One day, I'll be able to show this eye to the world without fear."

"I'll be with you every step of the way, Amy." She smiles, equipping the eyepatch once more.

"I love you, Beloved."

"Love you too, Fischl."

Watching her sole eye linger a bit more as she turns, the Electro departs towards the others.

"Alright…" Taking a single step, his vision blurs as he catches his staggering form. "Crap…"

Hang in there just a little longer, body.

"Relon." He knew immediately the voice belonged to Ei.

It was so low she was likely not speaking any louder to alert the others. He'd forgotten they were linked by verbal communication in their plane.

"I can keep going. I'm so close." He breathes out.

"... Very well."

He hadn't heard her speak since his match with Eula so unless he was so focused on the girls before him, she had kept quiet this entire time in order to either listen in or block him out due to her respect for their privacy.

Giving a glance to the remaining Cryo girls, he departs at a brisk pace. He could already feel the toll on his body from his bout with Eula begin to ache. Then again, he was the one who accepted fighting her despite having a headache worsening by the minute.

"Ah." Stopping before the next girl, his eyes meet Ayaka's.

"Surprised?"

"Speaking truthfully, I am."

"You've waited long enough. Let me ex-"

"If it's alright, may I go first?" Noting his curious blinking, she continues. "At first, I felt that allowing you to explain your feelings first would make it easier on myself but… having you here now, I think I know how to convey these feelings of mine. So please, allow me to express my honesty in full, Relon."

Relon had to admit, he wasn't seen this coming. Not in the slightest. Here he was ready to give his own honest thoughts to the girl but she wanted to speak first. Who was he to deny a maiden of such an important request?

"Hey, you've gotten better at calling me by my name at least. Go for it, Ayaka. I'm all ears."

Taken aback, a quick giggle escapes her.

"I suppose you're right. It's odd."

"What is?"

"Calling you by your name. It feels so… natural now. A feeling unlike anything I've ever experienced surges to the forefront when I say your name. When we first met, properly I mean, I felt obligated to address you with the utmost respect. Not just because of your new status but due to you having saved not only my life but everyone else's. That odd feeling I felt wasn't as strong as it is now. Calling you Lord Shogun or any other similar alias no longer emitted such. I will admit, I was at a loss for words regarding it. However, that changed just recently."

"When we saved Eula." A nod comes in response.

"Though you made it a request, and not an order, you were quite insistent on how we addressed you. Any superior with even half of your status would likely embrace such an opportunity. Yet, you did not. Instead of placing yourself above all, something well within your right, you chose to remain on an even level with the rest of us. You enacted the complete opposite which was why it became so difficult for myself to follow that behest. That was when my thoughts of you began to slowly shift to that of admiration. It only grew, quite hastily I might add, following our battle with that regisvine."

Chuckling alongside her, his attentive form gives her all the confirmation she needs to press on.

"When I was injured, it was the first time you had given me an order. Not to mention it related to my well being. I felt frustrated at myself for causing trouble for you and Ganyu. At the same time, however, that familiar warmth began to surge even more from the safety of your touch." Lifting to meet him, he catches a faint pink adorning her cheeks.

The sight alone made him have to steady himself otherwise she'd notice his own. Though judging by the giddy smile she was attempting to hold down, his efforts were in vain.

"Teehee. More and more, that sense of safety went beyond just touch. When you tended to my injury, the words spoken and actions done left my heart touched. My own thoughts were practically blinded by the genuineness you revealed. I was honored. No, I was even more mesmerized by who you were!" Despite Ayaka's level tone, her declaration struck him forcing the male to inwardly stagger ever so slightly. "I can count on one hand the number of times you've had to carry me." She eases with another soft chortle. "Being given the opportunity to be alone with you, I had doubts on whether or not I should even acknowledge such feelings. Given the events that have transpired since you awoke, it is quite easy to see why you've developed such feelings for Ganyu. As for Eula and I, during your duel, I was surprised that you claimed to have feelings over us. Even more though, I was… relieved. The fear of pursuing such a childish one-sided notion no longer was apparent. I felt… hopeful. Watching your duel against Eula, you weren't fighting for yourself. You were fighting for each and every one of the others. Including myself."

Too lost in her longing gaze, his hands instinctively take hold of her own curling inwards as she moves closer.

"That was more than enough for me to follow what my heart wished for. What I wished for. To be yours, Re- Mmf!"

Though sudden, she wasn't surprised. Quickly, she reciprocated the feelings that welled from their hearts. He didn't need to listen to any more superfluous details about himself. She didn't need to listen to a ramble about her. She knew that. He knew that. There were no need for more words. As mentioned much earlier and again only seconds prior; actions spoke volumes and even more so did honesty. Something both conveyed through the tender kiss.

Pulling back, her arms find comfort around his body as he does the same.

"Ayaka…"

"I feel the same, Relon." She smiles lovingly. "This familiar voice from my locked past; it's important to me. I am aware of this. However, I feel as though I am not ready just yet to request an answer. Once I feel strong enough, can I ask you to be there? In case my strength cannot handle the truth?"

"You don't even have to ask. Whether or not you are or not, I made a promise didn't I? A pinky one not to mention." He chuckles.

"Hehe, that is true. I'll be holding you to it then."

"Not just us, but everyone has forgotten so much but…"

"Together, we'll reclaim what's rightfully ours."

"Yeah. Let's give it our all."

Lifting up on her tiptoes, she gives one last soft kiss before stepping away.

"We'll be waiting, Relon."

"We won't be long."

Watching her depart, he takes in a breath to steady his jumpy nerves. Looking around to find the remaining woman far off facing mountains in the distance, he begins his trek.

The past him and the present him. The same individual with contrasting distinctions. One was born in Snezhnaya and the other on Serei Island. The past was a young boy full of inexperience on a journey to reach Inazuma. The present was now the Raiden Shogun, the ruling God of electricity presiding over the nation Inazuma. The past had fallen for Sara, Hu Tao, Fischl, and Keqing. The present had chosen Ganyu, Ayaka, and Eula. The past knew their origins, their real origins. The present did not…

Both versions of himself were superior to the other in various fields. Yet, it always left the present him, the current amnesiac, always forced to ask the "why's" unable to determine the answer without evidence or assistance. That would change. He wouldn't look back. His feelings, instincts, past capabilities; he would accept them all in order to move forward. Just as he chose to become a sacrifice for the greater good, he would use his past to move towards a better future. From this point on, he wouldn't look back. He was both the same man yet a different being altogether. The culmination of both Relons' experiences made him into the individual he was.

His past life was still his own but he would do with it as he pleased. He'd decided. What mattered most were those in the life he was living now. Amongst those stood one of equal importance before him.

"Did I keep you waiting?" Taking a seat next to her, his gaze goes to hidden peaks obstructed by the distant clouds.

"No." She shakes wearing a smile all the while. "On the contrary, I got the chance to reminisce."

"Oh? What about?"

"My time during the Archon War. I can recall vague moments such as the endless fighting but nothing more. Looking at those mountains, I feel a sense of familiarity stir. As if my own locked memories are attempting to break the chains binding them. Even with attempts at using the Silent Voice, nothing has occurred thus far. How do you do it?"

"Me? It kinda just happens. Whenever I interact with someone or something, memories just pop out of nowhere. Most of the time it's been through physical contact but lately I've been recalling stuff through the Silent Voice. It could be because mine were stowed away by Ei unlike everyone else's."

"Hmm… Then, could we try?"

About to dumbly ask what, his voice hitches for his simmered nerves to rush with embarrassment once more.

Why am I panicking now?! I was somewhat fine with everyone so why am I feeling so jittery with Ganyu?! Argh, come on Relon! Ease your heart and be honest!

As he argued with himself, he failed to notice her done a deadpan expression, exude a giggle at his obvious internal beratement, and place a hand on the ground for a small wall of ice to rise against their backs.

"There isn't a problem is there?" She asks innocently, shifting to face him fully.

"To do that, that would imply… you know…" He covers his flushed face struggling to maintain eye contact.

"I do." She nods affirmatively, her usual smile remaining present.

Twitching, his eyes droop looking towards the waiting woman.

"You're messing with me." Forcing back her chuckles, she quickly conforms.

"I was quite curious how long it would take for you to notice. Then again, it should be that surprising of a request given what you've been doing since bringing us to this meadow." She teases for the male to avert his gaze for a moment.

I have Miko's own teasing for seeing through such a thing…

"... You're not gonna be like some of the others and tease me at every given moment are you? Because Hu Tao and Miko alone are already a handful and I think she's finally rubbed off on Keqing."

Unable to hold back, she breaks out into a fit of laughter. One in which Relon soon allows himself to join in. In doing so, relief quickly overcame the worry that crept in the back of his head. He should have known Ganyu's answer long before but assuming it was never his forte.

"I promise I won't torture you with such antics too often." She answers, whipping a tear from her eye.

"I'll settle for that." He chuckles, leaning more into the cold solid.

"I believed you would."

Hearing a certain familiar jingle, he peers an eye to take sight of the bell hovering before him. In doing so, the slow accumulation of ease fades away as he takes in Ganyu plant herself atop his pelvis.

"I've read in numerous books about love that this is something couples do." She begins, the crimson adorning her cheeks becoming clearer by the second. "I've… never experienced romance so I want to relish this to the fullest. My first kiss I mean."

Raising her gloved hands to hold the side of his cheeks, he shivers not from the cold touch but from the numerous thoughts slowly seeping into his mind.

"Ganyu…" He murmurs as though in a trance.

"Relon…" She breathes back as their foreheads press against one another.

Snaking around to take in her bare back, he feels her shiver though that only pushes them closer to the point their noses touch. Watching her arms play with his mane as she'd done in the past, their eyelids slowly shut. Taking in her floral scent, she takes in the numerous scents already layered on him. Wanting to make her own known, their lips finally meet.

From a chance encounter to a night of understanding to a battle of unity to freeing a dear friend, both had realized how much they'd come in such a short time. This was something that was simply picked back up. Only now, both hold more meaning behind their feelings. From simple infatuation and talk to a deeper level of understanding, this was but only a matter of time.

It took every bit of control he had to resist his carnal desires. Despite the situation with everyone, he was still a male. His body would only hold out for so long before "other" thoughts would make themselves known. Instead, he focused on using his own experience regarding the intoxicating art to lead Ganyu.

One long kiss shifted to their lips moving unorganized. Matching hers at a steady pace, he could feel the tension in her shoulders ease as a content hum exuded through the small space their lips made. Mustering out each second of the savory taste of the other, they soon parted panting for breath.

Not saying anything, their eyes spoke volume. Leaning more into the frozen structure, he lifted a hand to touch her bell. Watching it sway from side to side, once more the jingle sounded. Her jingle. The first instance they met it emitted that chime and he's loved it ever since.

He could clearly see the love in her eyes. Despite feeling as if a haze hovered over his own, he was sure his eyes showed the same. Judging by her flowing once more into his touch, he was right.

Once more, both fell in tandem. The pair only seemed to increase in intensity as the slow seconds passed by. From simple liplocking to Relon pecking kisses on her neck causing a stifled moan to escape. The profound sensation mixed with her love roaming her body instilled a newfound sense of pride within.

"We should… go soon." He forces through a husky breath returning to her lips for the adeptus to only hum in agreement all the while too busy savoring the sensation she'll soon be without.

"30 more seconds…" She relents before delving back to her new pleasure.

Letting her hands lower to the hem of his loose shirt, she pauses for the briefest of moments as a nod of confirmation comes from the male. Running a hand up his bare chest, she feels something hard slowly shift under her. Unfazed, she presses into his groin for his eyes to roll back in pleasure. Relinquishing from his slow strokes up and down her backside, his hands wander around to the front. Feeling the temptation edge his hands to her side, mere inches from her breasts, he forces them further down instead grabbing hold of her mature waist before settling on the thin fabric keeping him from feeling her thighs directly.

5… Both think counting down.

4… Her hand slinks back from his shirt.

3… His hands lift from her thighs to intertwin with her hands.

2… Once more they lean in, the once dense passion now brisk but still the feeling was conveyed clearly.

1… Parting, they rest against the other.

"Zero." They mutter.

Basking in the other's touch, their eyes peer open to greet with a smile.

"I love you." In perfect synchronicity, they speak their honest thoughts.

Smiling, one last fit of laughter resounds from the two.

"That was… exhilarating." She notes still catching her breath.

"That's a fact." He gulps. "You must have been engrossed in those books to adapt that quickly, huh?" Widening at the smirking boy, her face becomes beat red as she quickly lifts her hands in mock defense.

"H-Heavens, no! I just… read a few that were quite detailed… That's all." She squeaks out poking her fingers together. Gaining some courage, she lifts her gaze to the smiling boy to realize the trap she just walked in. "R-Relon…!"

"Hehe, gotcha back." He grins that childish grin.

"I swear…" She breathes out to lean forward planting a peck on his cheek. "What am I going to do with you?"

"Not tease me and support me in our future endeavors like the loving girlfriend that you now are?" It was somewhat cheesy to say but he'd be lying if he argued against not wanting to say such a one-liner.

Rolling her eyes, she cannot resist that infectious smile she's fallen in love with. About to lift off, her eyes blink for a tinge of heat to form on her cheeks. Too lost in his own thoughts, she could tell he wasn't aware of the situation they were still in. More so him given his erection yet to fully subside alongside her own rapid heartbeats. She fully understood such a reaction was natural but now that their heated moment had subsided, her senses had returned meaning her once foggy mind had clearly recalled what exactly they did. His actions but more so her own.

Despite being a beginner at kissing, she quickly adapted to the technique while Relon being the gentleman that he was matched her own pace. Given how quickly things had become, it was clear that they both her holding more in than expected. And through it all, she didn't feel bothered in the slightest. It may have been due to her affections over the male or maybe the guilt she felt just didn't matter all too much. She could discern the cause exactly and honestly, she didn't care. She wanted to meet that passionate soul of his with her own and she did such. If anything, she was thankful that despite the subtle lust taking over, she remained somewhat conscious of her actions recalling his acceptance regarding her touching. The same could be said vice versa. Had he garnered to test the limits, she wouldn't have had any issue. It was faint but she could feel his hesitation when his gentle massage on her back had ended. Still, the experience of her first kiss was everything she had hoped and then some.

All that left them to do was return to the others. Before that, however, she'd have to remove herself from atop his lap. A spot that turned out to be quite comfortable despite the still awake membrane.

"Eh…?" Brought out of her thoughts, she eyes her lover currently a blushing mess. He'd likely realized the situation they were in. "U-Um, Ganyu?"

The fact his eyes were making shaky glances at her atop him, he definitely realized. She had to hold a chuckle. His attentiveness was strong in some areas and quite dense in others it seemed.

"Yes?" She muses out.

"You know… right?" He forces out, clearly not knowing how to go about this.

Seeing the sight of the male show such a side was amusing. So much she could help but tease him one last time.

"I do." She nods, a jingle emitting in tandem with said nod. "Its length visually does it justice in terms of touch." She adds shuffling in place, the act alone making Relon's mouth quiver. "Sorry, I couldn't help but take another jab. I can certainly see why some of the others are so fond of teasing you. Your reactions are cute." She says slowly lifting off as he can only pout before adjusting himself to rise.

"Note to self; Ganyu's wide array of experience makes her able to contend with any situation. Such puts her in the same realm as the likes of Hu Tao and Miko, possibly more..." He mutters, hiding his blushing cheeks with hand.

Giggling at his comedic antics, her eyes fall upon his sheepish form.

"Relon." Despite his mind and body practically overwhelmed, he managed to dial his boiling emotions enough to properly acknowledge her call.

"Y-Yeah?"

Not getting a verbal response right away, he watches as she steps forward, capturing his lips once more. This kiss would only last no longer than a few seconds before she rests her head against his.

"I really do love you. No matter what comes, I'll fight. For a tranquil tomorrow and to defend this newfound love."

His mind was a mess. From the very beginning of this meeting, he understood quickly the sheer amount of information and emotions that would flood his core. The numerous confessions, the meanings and worries that came with each, it all littered his mind. Yet, despite all of it, he managed to remain sane enough to elicit a response.

"Love you too, Ganyu." Reaching for her hands to lock them with his own, their noses wag against the others in a playful manner. "For our friends and all of those affected, let's bring this war to an end."

"You can count on me."

With those words spoken, hand-in-hand, they turned leaping onto the wall of ice. With a ready nod, both turn their attention towards the others in the distance. Hunkering down, they leap far into the air.

"Incoming!" Beidou shouts.

Pulling the adeptus into the safety of his arms, they land with a mild thud. Lowering her, they take in the sight of everyone's happy demeanors sans Rosaria's neutral look.

"Things all good?"

"Yup. Everything's just fine, Razor." Relon smiles. "It finally feels like everything is starting to feel right again. Bit by bit at least."

"Give it some more time. You'll be back into the swing of things in no time." Beidou grins, locking him by her elbow. "But Relon, you player, how'd it feel to take so many first kisses? Surely, you've had enough practice now, eh?"

Widening his eyes ever so slightly, the mention of that finally struck. He'd captured all of the girls' first kiss. Surprisingly, he wasn't even embarrassed at the notion. If anything, he was curious about one thing.

"Surprisingly calm." He blinks, not putting up a fight against her hold. "Is that normal?"

"For most normal people; no." Miko laughs. "For males and females with a harem, however, it's quite normal in Inazuma."

"Huh… So Inazuma accepts polyamorous relationships. That… actually explains a lot." He says dumbfounded to look towards Sara.

With how Hu Tao mentioned her acceptance, it sounded like it was out of giving the others a fair shot. That or she rolled either way, not that he had an issue with such a possibility.

"Um." Chongyun voices. "Would it be right to assume you have no recollection of this area either?"

"Also, what's with the new getup? It lacks that regal look. Seems more casual than anything."

Oh yeah. Those were goo points to discuss.

"That's right." He nods to Chongyun before once again taking in the scenery. "It seems like this is far off from any civilization."

"Obviously Inazuma has nothing like this. Judging by the mountains and open water, I'd take a gander at Liyue." Miko huffs to look at the Liyue native for confirmation.

"Aya, it's a possibility. Though I've traveled across much of the nation as a wee little girl, not once have I ever stumbled upon a place so beautiful as this."

"A hidden location perhaps?" Lisa wonders.

"That can't be right. Relon, Qiqi, and I were practically together since the moment they first stepped into Liyue." She purses her lips at the thought while Qiqi nods in agreement.

"This plane." All look to the source to find Relon directing his speech toward Ei. "How is it possible that something like this even exists?"

"Hmm… Even if a figment of your imagination, the mind can only manifest what its wielder knows to be of existence. For example, your home or even the neighborhood that surrounds it. Going off of this, we can discern one of two things. One; your own plane that shows this oddly structured world is located somewhere in Teyvat. Or two; Qiqi, but more specifically you, originate from somewhere not of this world. I for one am not capable of looking into your memories. Even if I could, it would be taboo to put it simply."

At her words, nearly everyone widens.

"R-R-Relon's possibly an alien?!" Hu Tao stammers out sporting an unnerving grin.

"Why do you look more excited than shocked?" Relon shakes in disapproval.

"Can something be so… conceivable?" Eula arches a brow in clear disbelief.

"Given we all can use elements, have an actual Goddess before us, and live in a world with frozen tundras and volcanic land masses, I'd say that being an alien isn't so farfetch'd."

"Hmm." Keqing hums aloud. "So you're insinuating Relon being an extraterrestrial came to Snezhnaya from somewhere else. But if so, then where? Furthermore, why keep something from us?"

"That's the million mora question." Kaeya answers going back into thought.

"Could it be that he simply forgot?" All look at the source to be Lisa. "Qiqi dear, you recall your brother being with you when you were young, correct?" At her question, the young girl hums with a nod. "It's possible that growing up, his mind simply forgot."

But…

"I'm… sorry, Mommy."

If that's the case, then I came from somewhere even before those memories occurred. A world that has such a home as well as a field like this…

"Again, it is merely a possibility." Miko voices.

"Wouldn't Qiqi also recognize this setting too?" Beidou wonders. "They've been together since her birth."

"Beidou makes point…" Razor nods.

"It's also possible that Relon has experienced a place like this somewhere in Teyvat that Qiqi didn't." Miko takes over once more. "For instance, Qiqi cannot recall being sick in Fontaine so it's possible that is where this plane came from."

"From what I've gathered about this place, it's the culmination of my memories, both those on the surface and others hidden at the deepest depths. As for this plane of mine… I guess it has its own story apparently."

"It's possible you may recall something of this place with time." Ayaka offers her own incentive.

"Only time will tell." He shrugs to notice Qiqi inspecting him.

"Care to explain why you would rid yourself of that attire?" Miko eyes the boy. "Do you have any idea how much effort I went through to find something that fitted so right?"

"Oh no, you had to actually work for once." Sara blandly comments with an eyeroll.

"I'll have you know, I work plenty when I must."

"Your novels don't count." Relon, Sara, Hu Tao, Keqing, Razor, and Fischl all deadpan in unison.

"Why you all…!" She bats an eye to simply huff crossing her arms. "How rude. I get no respect nowadays."

"You know they mean well." Ei smiles.

Sighing, Miko takes in her lover's appearance.

"I too am quite curious." Ei speaks, gaining his attention. "You were able to use both Electro and Cryo all on your own. How?"

"I don't know how I did either honestly. I was so entranced in my own thoughts, I just… did it. I think I'm getting the hang of these powers. Even if just a little. I'll admit, this attire feels… right. Still, I did like that black robe. Sorry about that, Miko."

Feeling the sincerity in his tone and on his face, she waves him off.

"Think nothing of it. You can just make it up to me one way or another."

"I feel you'd make me whether I was aware of such or not?"

"Whatever do you mean, Child?"

"Point proven. Ei, let's head back." He says dryly.

"To Inazuma or to your abode?" She chuckles at their antics.

"Let's head back to my abode for the time being." Easing his jovial mood, his mind takes in the image of the structure for the sounds of the group to emit before he opens to find himself back in his room.

"I'll never get over how easy that is for you two." Rosaria remarks.

"At least you all can watch the world change before your eyes." Relon jokes taking a seat on his bed. "I still have to focus, not to mention…. Ah, rely on Ei's help." He yawns before finishing. "Can't wait to look back on this like some story once I've improved. That's for sure."

"Speaking of stories." The yokai hums waltzing over to the photo of the girls. "Do tell, what is the story behind this photo?"

"One word; harem." He breathes out, stretching his aching body to lay sprawled out on the bed.

"Pfft."

"Don't you even start, Beidou." He lightly snaps for the pirate to cover her mouth.

"My bad, my bad haha."

"Well. It's not wrong. Especially now."

"Shut up, Kaeya." Rosaria snaps.

Hearing the subtle snicker from Miko, his own mild embarrassment only elevates. Peering his tired eyelids open, he notices the same mild blushes on said girls.

"You already had quite the lineup before becoming the Raiden Shogun." Lisa voices. "Fufufu, to think our Relon would be hungry for more love~."

Face warming by the second, his eyes go to Razor who nods covering Qiqi's ears.

"Please don't make it sound like I'm greedy with hormones, Lisa…!" He whines for the witch to laugh as the wolf boy releases his hands from the cupped girl's ears.

"So then, Ayaka and myself were…" He nods bashfully in response to which Ganyu's and Ayaka's own faces flush even more.

"I-I see…" Said cryo princess nods lost in thought.

"Again, I can't control any of this yet. After our fight with Trishula, I woke up here. For a moment, I couldn't tell what was real or not. This world or Teyvat's."

"N-No, I do not mean it in a negative way!" Ayaka dismisses. "I'm… honored."

"Your options have become-"

"Shut. Up!" Rosaria growls, swinging a backfist for Kaeya to duck.

"Haha. Alright, alright!"

"Still. What made you think Teyvat wasn't real?" Chongyun wonders.

"Because when I came to, I met a certain Pyro." At this, several eyes goes to Hu Tao.

"Me?"

"Yes. You."

"Wait, your plane can manifest versions of ourselves?" Keqing blinks incredulously.

"I… I guess? Still trying to figure out how that even works. Somehow my mind conjured up a Shenhe as well alongside some other stuff." He adds cutting to Ei.

"The powers of an Archon really do seem limitless." Beidou comments to widen. "Wait a sec…"

Feeling his migraine return, he forces himself to sit up.

"Razor!" He snaps as the wolf boy already moves to cover Qiqi's ears once again. "No! I am not stooping to such a perverted level! I have more tact than to do something like that!"

Feeling his breath wane, he drops back hitting a pillow.

"Tch. Damn. Beat me to the punch…"

"What are-" Cutting herself off, Keqing's eyes grow wide as her blush spreads for a scowl to be directed at a huffing Beidou. "BEIDOU!"

"Hm? Whatever does thy reliant warrior imply?" Snatching the girl with hand, Keqing whispers into her ear as red erupts on her face as well. "BEIDOU, WHAT THE HECK?!"

"HEY!" The Pyro cuts, pushing both aside to crawl to the side of the bed rocking his form. "What was my other self like? I wanna know!"

"Hu Tao, maybe it would be best to let him rest." Ayaka advises in worry.

"Oya? You have nothing to fear, Ayaka, our dear Relon can handle anything I throw at him. Isn't that- ow, ow, ow!" Cut off by said male pulling on her cheek, he lets go revealing the unamused expression plastered on his face.

"Word of advice for the future. If any of you want to get through Hu Tao's energetic self, you'll have to use action more often than not."

"Aya… I'm still recovering from Jealous-Leggings' earlier assault. Don't you love me?" She pouts though it was clear what she was after.

"That's it! Why I should…!" Keqing growls to be held back by Fischl and Razor.

Too tired to care, he answers.

"You know I love you but I also love the others." He deadpans to give her a light bonk. "Though Qiqi still stands as priority number one." He gives a wry smirk to lie back down.

In doing so, a visible shudder runs down his back at the memory.

"Relon?" Sara calls in slight worry.

"A sexual deviant, that's what you were." He mutters low as for Qiqi to not hear. "Full of mischief. That's what!" He scoffs.

"Hey, why are you getting mad?!" She pouts.

"Ahaha! Oh, I need to see this plane's version of myself." Miko laughs.

"Supposedly this plane made you and I teachers." Ei notes.

"Oh? I would have expected myself to be an author or a shrine maiden. Though I suppose with the knowledge I've bestowed upon these children over the years do suffice for such a role."

"Ahem." Relon coughs eyeing the teaser. "The thing is that before I remembered who Hu Tao even was, this plane's version made itself appear. That picture showed her as well as Kokomi, who I had no recollection of at the time. Yet this plane's Hu Tao knew a decent bit about her."

"Wait!" The lone Pyro pops to her feet.

"I'm scared to ask but what?" He sighs.

"Try manifesting a version of one of us!"

"... Why?"

"So we could maybe learn something! Isn't that the whole point of this meeting?"

About to respond, he furrows at the thought. As much as he disliked admitting it, she was right.

"She actually makes a good point for once." Sara blinks equally baffled.

"Ugh, what do you mean for once? Aya aya, what are you to do without me, Relon?"

"Stop acting like you're an expert in this field." Sara deadpans.

"It wouldn't hurt to try." Ganyu suggests.

"How do I even go about that though?" He wonders looking towards Ei.

"The same as you did prior. Will it into being. Focus on your sole desire."

"So say my name and just imagine me." Hu Tao beams.

"Considering how hard it is to do everything else, I doubt simply saying Hu Tao and thinking of you like I am now will work."

Ding dong.

"Was that…?"

"A doorbell? Yes. Yes it was."

"... No way in hell it was that easy."

Gleaming with excitement, the Pyro zooms for the door peering out down the steps. Sharing in her curiosity, Qiqi and Razor move to peer below her. The sight itself resembles some sort of comedic trope.

"There's no way I did it…."

"Go check already!" Hu Tao urges with a hand.

"I'm quite curious in all honesty." Ei muses.

"I'm pretty sure everyone is, Lord Shogun." Beidou chuckles.

Awkwardly passing the three to stand at the top of the staircase, he can only gulp as anxiety takes hold.

"Relon." Keqing calls, giving him a serious look. "Out of all of us, why did you think of a second her?"

One second. Two seconds. Three seconds. By the fourth, he realized his mistake. Flapping over atop Qiqi's head, Oz covers her ears.

"Oh shit."

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

"Just check already." Sara sighs, saving everyone from another rambunctious earful.

Knock knock knock.

Turning back to the door, he slowly approaches.

"This cannot be happening…"

Reaching the bottom, he stops before the door.

Ding dong…

"Moment of truth…" He breathes to reach for the knob.

With an ear-bothering churn, it opens.

"Took you long enough."

"Who…"

"Tao? Tao?! Is it another me?" The Pyro scoots further out to be pulled back by Sara.

"Quiet!"

Before him stands an unfamiliar female. Seeming to be around his age, the young woman's attire consists of a black jacket over a white loosely-fitted shirt, black ripped jeans and heeled boots. She has snow-white hair of short length with black streaks, a slim build, and her most noticeable feature (aside from her hair); a pair of black eyes with red x's serving as her pupils.

"Are you?" In response, her face scrunches as if angry to ease after a moment for a sigh to escape.

"So the others were telling the truth. You really did lose your memory. How the hell did you manage that, you idiot?"

"Who is she? How come she's acting so mean to Relon?!" Hu Tao whispers.

"That's…" Qiqi begins.

"Arleechino. That's my name. Try to remember it this time."

"You know her, Qiqi?" A nod is her answer.

"Arleechino… huh?"

"Yeah. What about it?" She glares.

"It's a lovely name."

Meeting his kind smile, her anger ceases as she now sports a bashful demeanor. Allowing a chuckle to escape, her glare returns though he can't force himself to stop his fit of laughter.

"S-S-Shut up! It's bad enough I hear enough jittery charades from the others, so I don't need to hear it from you of all people!"

Hearing her stumble over her words only made his stomach ache more with the fits. Eventually settling down, he rests an arm at his hip. His mind slipped for a moment of the current situation he was in. It took everything to not look behind at the eyes he felt on him.

Returning to the woman before with crossed arms mumbling something incoherent, he had to question a few things. One; how come his mind manifested Arleechino but not Hu Tao? Was that due to Hu Tao already being here or simply because he wasn't yet skilled in the art yet? Two; similar to when he heard Kokomi for the first time, he has no recollection at all about the woman before him. Three…

"Why do you act so hostile?" Taken aback by the blunt and sudden response, her eyes narrow.

"I'm not!" She barks to immediately recoil. "Tch. Such a pain. Why am I going through all of this again?"

"Again?" He arches a brow.

Obviously she was referring to their first meeting most likely but he knew nothing of Arleechino. Best to learn what he can.

Watching her mull so more, another sigh escapes her lips. Taking the moment, he had to admit that she was beautiful. Then again, every female he's met thus far has been beyond simple words. Sara, Ganyu, Ei, literally everyone. Even Rosaria and her scowlful self.

"Sorry, this is just how I am. This entire talk's reminding me of how we first met."

"Nothing to be sorry for. You're just being yourself. I'd prefer you to be honest with yourself than lie to me."

Staring at him for a moment, her blank stare lifts to smirk.

"Heh, Still unconsciously honest as ever."

"What do you- Mmf?!"

"HUH?!"

"Oh my." Ei blinks.

"She's sucking his face!" Hu Tao hisses.

"WHAT?!" His girlfriends exclaim blurring across the room to peek out.

Vision transitioning in an instant to the dead of night, the frozen winds hit his skin though he seems none to bothered. Looking above to the stars their companions, his eyes go down to his side. Hands locked; Qiqi's. Stopping to note of something, his both immediately rushes over in a panic.

"Hey! Wake up! Qiqi, help me out!"

Once again, his vision blurs to the dim orange hue caused by a lamp located in the center of a room. Sitting against one wall; himself and Qiqi bundled up in blankets as they reside in a cabin. On the other; the familiar x-eyed girl.

"Arleechino."

"Huh?"

"That's my name."

"That name…"

"What? It's stupid? Is it a joke? It's-"

"It's a lovely name. Arleechino."

Another shift. Once more into the frigid tundra of nighttime.

"I guess this is where we part ways." His voice is a mix of solemnity and awkwardice.

"Arleechino…"

"Relon, Qiqi, listen up because I won't say this again. Thanks. But don't think I owe either of you anything."

"Heh. That's because you don't. Try not to die to the elements this time."

"Tch, keep talking and I'll sew that mouth shut."

"Be nice to big brother!"

"You don't want to make Qiqi mad, do you?" He raises a hand.

"Hmpf. I'm cruel but even I'm not a monster that'll make a child cry." She raises her own for a clap to emit.

"Until we meet again, Arleechino…"

"You better not die, you Lucinances…"

A final shift. Back to the current time as his sight takes in his situation once more.

"Oh yeah, he's so gonna have fun in this plane." Beidou smirks looking at the scene.

"No look, Qiqi!" Razor exclaims, covering her eyes and pulling the girl away from the forming crowd.

That was… the real Arleechino…

Relon was expecting a lot to be honest. The wavering relationships the others have with Ei, the subtle secrets some have held including his own memories, and a lot of other minor things. He, however prepared, was not expecting a manifested stranger to be sucking his face much less the memories of her real self. That location clearly was Snezhnaya as he saw his and Qiqi's past selves help her out of the buried snow.

Eyes shaking frantically, his body refuses to respond. Every second felt like so much longer. What surprised him was the sheer skill she held. Even though his lips were acting on their own attempting to keep up, it was like her lips alone were carrying the both of them. He couldn't stop his body for it would not listen. Feeling something push against his teeth for a split second, as if trying to gain access, it retreats for her eyelids to peer open. Heart beating more than he can count in a single second, further burns his body from the seductive glint before she finally pulls away gasping for air.

"Y-Y-You. W-W-Why?" That's all the stunned male can muster out as the woman wipes her mouth with a satisfied smile.

"Consider that payment for making your girlfriend worry." She smirks.

"Y-You… weren't in the photo." He steadies himself to note.

"Hmpf. Unlike the others, I don't like to display such things as they do. Hell, Sara doesn't either but Hu Tao talked her into it."

"You didn't text…"

He had to thank his mouth for speaking for him as if on auto reply or something because he was drawing nothing but a blank right now.

"Unlike those who care about school, I don't. Why text you such concerns when I can stop what I'm doing and come check on the guy I love." Now she's the one to arch a brow.

"There wasn't a picture of you…"

"I'm not one for pictures. Until we're all living together, I'm plenty satisfied with the ones I have on my phone. You have the same on yours you know." She explains tossing the device from her pocket to catch it, twirl it, press some keys, and show him a picture of the two as some festival of sort together. In the background, he could spot Qiqi, Hu Tao, and some of the others.

"But… Hu Tao said I was only dating six…"

"Likely said that to not overwhelm you. She is your second love." She chuckles.

"Please stop." He begs holding one hand out with the other supporting his head. "My head can't take much more." He pants for a snort to escape.

"Earth to Relon, there's a house right behind you." Now he's the one to glare though it comes more across as a blushing pout. "Alright, alright. It's still plenty early in the morning so I'm sure Qiqi is still asleep. Get some more rest. I'll call the orphanage and tell them I have a certain thunderhead to take care of. After I stop by the shop for some dumplings, I'll give Eula and Columbina your regards." She turns to depart.

Earth? What's that? Wait…

Still blinking to help steady his mind, his mouth manages to muster out the lone word.

"Colum...bina…?"

Taking a single step forward, she stops.

"Guess you forgot her too, huh? Jeez, that Hu Tao. You're gonna have a lot more trouble to deal with if you thought she or I were slightly bad." She notes to look over her shoulder. "She's your other sister." With those words, she puts her hand in her pockets before departing.

"... Huh?"

Right when he thought everything was placing itself in order, the world he began to understand shattered right before him.

---

Notice - Here's the list of characters. Y'all pick one, I write a chapter about them. See you all whenever that might be.

Ei

Miko

Sara

Hu Tao

Fischl/Amy

Keqing

Razor

Beidou

Lisa

Ganyu

Ayaka

Eula

Kaeya

Chongyun

Rosaria

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Reviews

Guest B: I like Sara here, it's really wholesome to see her get Ei's recognition and Relon. I wonder what she'll strive for now…?

Side note: How big is Relon's bedroom?! It's at least a dozen people.

Glad you enjoyed her section. Sometimes I second guess myself with some scenes but I think it came out well. Goal? To deal with these darn baddies, haha. Also, it's not crazy big like in Ei's place. As noted at the beginning of this chapter.

XeroGunblader: Kind of annoyed you cockblocked us from the reveal of what the harbingers did but did enjoy Sara's POV. Hoping next chapter comes soon.

Gotta love/hate cliffhangers, huh? Apologies but hope the build up was worth it. Happy ya enjoyed Sara's moment.

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A/N

Despite this originally planned to be a 3k chapter, I felt like sending this off with a banger until next chapter. Fischl's segment alone took literally 5.5k alone. Like Jesus. Also, each girl's "moment" if you will was of varying lengths due to either I felt it the right amount and/or simply didn't want to overdramatize the mood I wanted. Mentions of other characters, some other revelations like Andrius, and RELON FINALLY GETTING HIS DAMN HAREM GOING. Deadass, writing him get with each girl from Miko to Ganyu felt so satisfying. Ahh, time for his small training arc haha. Duces!