Jayce Colvex wiped the blood off his blade as he surveyed the scene of carnage. He had just finished clearing a large hilichurl camp in Mondstadt after taking on a hard bounty on the quest board. The bounty was for a particularly vicious hilichurl chieftain who had been raiding nearby villages and caravans. Jayce had tracked him down to his lair and fought his way through dozens of his minions before facing him in a brutal duel.
The chieftain was no match for Jayce's skill and experience, but he put up a good fight nonetheless. He wielded a massive stone club that could crush bones with ease, and he wore a horned helmet that made him look more fearsome. He also had a few tricks up his sleeve, such as throwing explosives and summoning reinforcements. But Jayce was prepared for anything. He dodged and parried his attacks, using his speed and agility to his advantage. He also used his hunter tools, such as throwing knives, molotovs, and pebbles, to distract and damage his foe. He finally delivered the killing blow by slashing his throat with his saw cleaver, ending his short reign of terror.
Jayce collected the chieftain's head as proof of his deed and searched the camp for any valuables. He found some mora, food, weapons, and other items that he could sell or use later. He also freed a few captives who had been taken by the hilichurls for unknown purposes. They thanked him profusely and ran away to safety. Jayce felt a slight satisfaction from helping them, but he also felt a pang of sadness. He wondered if they had families or friends who were waiting for them, or if they had lost them to the hilichurls or other dangers of this world.
He shook his head and tried to clear his mind of such thoughts. He had learned long ago that dwelling on the past or the future was futile and painful. He only lived in the present, focusing on his next hunt, his next challenge, his next thrill. He had no fears as he was a hunter, and hunting was his purpose.
He decided to head back to the Angel's Share Inn as It was getting late, and he needed some rest and refreshment. He also wanted to see if there were any new quests or bounties available for him in the morning, most likely the same thing. He enjoyed exploring this new land and fighting its creatures, but he also craved more excitement and challenge. He hoped to find something that would test his limits of sorts.
He made his way back to Mondstadt, avoiding any unnecessary trouble along the way. He admired the scenery of this region, with its green hills, blue lakes, and white windmills. He also liked the architecture of the city, with its stone walls, wooden houses, and towering cathedral. It reminded him of some of the places he had seen in his previous world in the outskirts villages near Yharnam, but with a more cheerful and colorful vibe.
He entered the city through one of its gates and headed towards the inn. He noticed that there were fewer people on the streets than usual, probably because it was getting dark and cold. He also sensed a slight tension in the air, as if something was wrong or about to happen. He shrugged it off as paranoia, but paranoia is often the best policy. With that being said, he continued on his way.
He reached the inn and opened the door. He was greeted by a familiar sight: a cozy tavern filled with tables, chairs, barrels, bottles, and patrons. He smelled the aroma of food, drink, and smoke. He heard the sounds of laughter, chatter, music, and clinking glasses. He felt a warmth that contrasted with the chill outside.
He walked towards the counter where he saw Charles, the bartender who ran the place. Charles was a middle-aged man with brown hair, beard, and eyes. He wore a white shirt, black vest, brown pants, and apron. He had a friendly and professional demeanor that made him popular with his customers. Sometimes however, he couldn't help but feel apprehensive at the sight of the hunter at times.
"Ah, Mr. Colvex! Welcome back!" Charles greeted him with a smile. "How was your bounty hunt?"
"Successful, as always." Jayce replied, placing the chieftain's head on the counter. "Here's your proof."
Charles took the head and examined it. He nodded in approval and admiration with a slight hint of disgust. "Impressive, as always. But honestly..." Charles said with a sigh "you do not have to keep bringing their heads. Just bring something they might have had on their person. Though, an ear would do just fine. Regardless, you've done a great service to Mondstadt, Mr. Colvex. You've earned your reward."
He handed Jayce a pouch of mora and a token of gratitude from the Adventurer's Guild. Jayce thanked him and pocketed them.
"Can I get you anything, Mr. Colvex? A drink? A meal, perhaps?" Charles asked as he was putting the head away in an ice cold container to take to the receptionist the next morning.
"Just a drink for now, thanks. I'll take a glass of wine." Jayce said.
"Coming right up." Charles said, pouring him a glass of red wine from a bottle. He handed it to Jayce, who took a sip and savored the taste.
"It's good." Jayce complimented.
"Thank you. It's one of our specialties here at the Angel's Share. It's made from the finest grapes grown in Mondstadt, and aged in oak barrels for years. It has a rich flavor and a smooth texture that will please any palate." Charles explained.
"I see. Well, you certainly know your stuff." Jayce said.
"Thank you. I've been working here for a long time, and I've learned a lot from the owner of this place." Charles said. As Jayce was enjoying his drink, he noticed a figure in his peripherals, sitting in the same spot for a few days. He never seemed to speak to anyone but Charles or the bard he met the other day. Its safe to say, he interest was piqued.
"Oh? And who is that?" Jayce asked, curious.
Charles pointed to a man who was sitting at a table in the corner of the tavern. He was a young man with red hair, eyes, and clothes. He wore a black coat over a white shirt, black pants, and boots. He had a sword strapped to his waist and a wine glass in his hand. He looked bored and aloof, as if he didn't care about anything or anyone around him.
"That's Diluc Ragnvindr, the owner of this inn and the Dawn Winery. Rumor has it that he also known as the Darknight Hero, Mondstadt's vigilante protector." Charles said, whispering the last part.
Jayce raised an eyebrow in interest. He had seen Diluc around, but never thought much of it. Rather, he figured it was just a regular at the inn. However, he had also heard rumors about the Darknight Hero, but he had never seen him in person. He wondered what he was like and why he did what he did.
"He doesn't look like much of a hero." Jayce commented.
Charles chuckled. "Don't let his appearance fool you, Mr. Colvex. He may seem cold and distant, but he has a strong sense of justice from what I heard. And has a fierce loyalty to Mondstadt. He inherited his father's business and wealth after he died in an accident, but he also inherited his father's enemies and troubles. He has many foes who want to harm him or his city, so he fights them in secret, using his skills and resources. He's very powerful and respected, but also very secretive and mysterious."
"I see. And how do you know all this?" Jayce asked.
Charles smiled mysteriously. "Let's just say I have my sources."
Jayce nodded, not pressing further. He decided to finish his drink and then approach Diluc. He wanted to talk to him and learn more about him. He also wanted to see if he had any quests or bounties for him. He had a feeling that Diluc would have something interesting for him. He drank his wine and then got up from his seat. He walked towards Diluc's table, ignoring the stares and whispers of the other patrons who recognized him as the Hunter of Mondstadt. Though he has been here for a while now, it seems gossip about the brutal hunter has not lowered. Jayce got used to it however.
He reached the table and cleared his throat.
"Excuse me, Mr. Ragnvindr?" He said politely.
Diluc looked up from his glass and met Jayce's analytical gaze with his own piercing one.
"Yes?" He said coldly.
Jayce smiled slightly and extended his hand.
"My name is Jayce Colvex, hunter." He introduced himself.
Diluc looked at his hand and then at his face with suspicion and curiosity.
"I heard about you, And your most recent deeds." Diluc said cautiously. "you also saved a townsfolk a month or so prior to settling here, yes?"
"Yes, that's right." Jayce confirmed.
Diluc frowned slightly and then shook his hand briefly.
"Diluc Ragnvindr, owner of this inn and the Dawn Winery." He said curtly.
Jayce nodded and then sat down across from him without asking for permission.
"I hope you don't mind if I join you for a bit." He said casually.
Diluc raised an eyebrow but didn't object.
"What do you want?" He asked bluntly.
Jayce shrugged.
"Just some conversation and maybe some information." He said vaguely.
Diluc narrowed his eyes but didn't say anything.
Jayce decided to start with some small talk to break the ice.
"So, how do you like running this place?" He asked innocently.
Diluc sighed slightly.
"It's fine, I guess. It keeps me busy and gives me some income." He said indifferently.
Jayce nodded sympathetically.
"I see. It must be hard to manage such a large business by yourself." He said sincerely.
Diluc shrugged.
"I have some employees and partners who help me out. But ultimately, I'm the one who makes the decisions and bears the responsibility." He said matter-of-factly.
Jayce smiled slightly.
"That's admirable. You must have a lot of courage and confidence to do that." He said complimentarily.
Diluc looked at him with a hint of surprise and curiosity.
"Are you trying to flatter me?" He asked skeptically.
Jayce shook his head.
"No, I'm just stating the truth. I respect people who have a strong will and a clear vision. People like you." He said honestly.
Diluc stared at him for a moment and then looked away.
"Thank you." He said softly.
Jayce sensed that he had made some progress in getting closer to Diluc. He decided to change the topic to something more interesting.
"So, tell me about this Darknight Hero thing. How did you become Mondstadt's vigilante protector?" He asked with a low voice and a tone of curiosity. Jayce knew that he might not be him, but it wouldn't hurt to drop some bait.
Diluc's eyes narrowed. He didn't know whether to believe him or not. He asked:
"Why are you telling me this? What do you want from me?"
'Gotcha.' Jayce thought
The hunter shrugged. "Nothing much. I just wanted to say that I admire what you do. You're a hero, Diluc. You protect Mondstadt from the shadows, even if no one knows or appreciates it."
Diluc tensed slightly for a while, and then sighed.
"It's a long story." He said reluctantly.
Jayce leaned forward and smiled encouragingly.
"I have time." He said calmly.
Diluc looked at him and then nodded slightly.
"Very well. I'll tell you. But you must promise me not to tell anyone else. It's a secret that only a few people know." He said seriously.
Jayce nodded solemnly.
"I promise. You can trust me." He said sincerely.
Diluc didn't know why, but he felt that he could. He took a sip of his wine and then began his story.
"It all started when I was a child. My father was Crepus Ragnvindr, the previous owner of the Dawn Winery and a knight of Favonius. He was a good man who loved Mondstadt and its people. He taught me everything I know about wine making, business, and fighting. He also taught me about justice and honor. He was my hero and my role model." He said fondly.
Jayce listened attentively and nodded occasionally.
"He sounds like a great man." He said respectfully.
Diluc smiled sadly.
"He was. But he died when I was sixteen years old. He was killed by an enemy of Mondstadt, a powerful and evil man named Ursa the Drake. He was the leader of a group of bandits who terrorized the region with his fire-breathing dragon. He wanted to destroy Mondstadt and take its resources for himself. My father led a group of knights to stop him, but they were ambushed and outnumbered. My father fought bravely, but he was mortally wounded by Ursa's dragon. He died in my arms, telling me to live on and protect Mondstadt in his place." He said bitterly.
Jayce felt sympathy for Diluc's loss.
"That's terrible. I'm sorry for your loss." He said sincerely.
Diluc nodded slightly and continued his story.
"After my father's death, I inherited his business and wealth, but I also inherited his enemies and troubles. Ursa was still at large, and he swore to kill me and destroy Mondstadt as revenge for my father's actions. I wanted to fight him, but the Knights of Favonius forbade me from doing so. They said it was too dangerous and reckless for me to go after him alone. They said they would handle it themselves, but they never did. They were too busy with other matters, or too afraid of Ursa's power, or too corrupted by his bribes. They failed to protect Mondstadt and its people from Ursa's attacks, which became more frequent and violent over time." He said angrily.
Jayce frowned in disappointment, but continued to listen
"That's unacceptable. How could they let such a man run free?" He asked indignantly.
Diluc nodded in agreement and continued his story.
"That's what I thought too. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I used my money and influence to gather information, weapons, allies, and anything else I needed to fight Ursa and his bandits. I also trained myself in swordsmanship, stealth, tactics, and anything else I needed to become stronger and smarter than my enemy. I became the Darknight Hero, Mondstadt's vigilante protector." He said proudly.
"For the past few years, I've been fighting Ursa and his bandits in secret, using the cover of night and my disguise to avoid detection and suspicion. I've managed to foil many of his plans, save many lives, and weaken his forces. But I've also made many enemies, not only among the bandits, but also among the knights and the nobles who are either in league with Ursa or opposed to my methods. They've tried to stop me, capture me, or kill me many times, but they've always failed. I've always been one step ahead of them." He said confidently.
Jayce nodded in admiration and curiosity.
"That's impressive. You must have a lot of skill and courage to do that." He said complimentarily.
Diluc smiled slightly.
"Thank you. I do what I have to do. I don't care about fame or glory or recognition. I only care about justice and honor and Mondstadt. That's what my father taught me, and that's what I live by." He said sincerely.
Jayce smiled back.
"I respect that. You're a true hero, Mr. Ragnvindr." He said respectfully.
Diluc looked at him with a hint of gratitude and friendship.
"Thank you. You're very kind, Mr. Colvex." He said politely.
Jayce decided to ask him a question that had been on his mind for a while.
"So, what are you doing here tonight? Are you waiting for something or someone?" He asked curiously.
Diluc looked at him with a serious expression. He hesitated if he should even continue telling him more. He just met the man. 'But...maybe..' Thought Diluc as he stared at Jayce with a contemplative look. 'He has done many good things around Mondstadt...Maybe he can help me. If he has known about me for this long without saying a word to anyone...'
"Yes, I am. I'm waiting for a message from one of my informants. He has some important information for me about Ursa's latest move. He's supposed to meet me here soon." He said cautiously.
Jayce raised an eyebrow in interest.
"Oh? And what is Ursa's latest move?" He asked. Diluc hesitated for a moment and then decided to trust Jayce.
"He's planning to attack Mondstadt tonight." He said gravely.
Jayce widened his eyes at the new in slight shock and alarm.
"What? Tonight? How do you know?" He asked with a small look of suprise.
Diluc took out a piece of paper from his coat and handed it to Jayce.
"It's a letter from Ursa himself. He sent it to me as a challenge and a taunt. He says he's tired of playing cat and mouse with me and he wants to end this once and for all. He says he's gathered all his remaining forces and he's going to launch a full-scale assault on Mondstadt tonight. He says he's going to burn the city to the ground and kill everyone in it, starting with me." He said grimly.
Jayce read the letter and felt a surge of anger and fear for Mondstadt and its people.
"That bastard. How dare he." He exclaimed with a calm face, but deep inside, cold fury was rising.
Diluc nodded in agreement.
"That's what I thought too. That's why I'm here. I'm going to stop him." He said determinedly.
Jayce looked at him with admiration and concern.
"How are you going to do that? Do you have a plan?" He asked glancing at Diluc from reading the note.
Diluc nodded slightly.
"Yes, I do. That's what my informant is going to tell me. He has some inside information on Ursa's location, numbers, weapons, and strategy. With that information, I can devise a counterattack that will catch him off guard and defeat him once and for all." He said confidently.
Jayce nodded in approval and.
"That sounds like a good plan. Can I help you?" He asks with a serious expression on his face.
Diluc looked at him with surprise and hesitation.
"You want to help me?" He asked doubtfully.
Jayce nodded earnestly.
"Yes, I do. I'm an adventurer and hunter. Fighting is what I do best. And it seems that this...Ursa... is now on my list. He's a threat to Mondstadt and its people, and I want to protect them too. Although I settled not long ago. I have grown attached to this place, and I would rather not see it up in flames after finally finding peace." He said sincerely.
Diluc looked at him with appreciation and respect, alongside a bit of curiosity at his last words.
"Thank you. That's very noble of you." He said gratefully.
He thought for a moment and then nodded slightly.
"Alright then. You can help me. But you have to follow my lead and do exactly as I say. This is not a game or a joke. This is a matter of life and death." He said seriously.
Jayce nodded
"I understand. I'll follow your lead and do exactly as you say. I'm ready to fight." He said firmly.
Diluc smiled slightly and clapped him on the shoulder.
"Good. I'm glad to have you on my side. You're a brave and loyal man, Mr. Colvex." He said warmly.
Jayce smiled back and felt a bond of friendship and trust with Diluc.
"Thank you. And you're a wise and honorable man, Mr. Ragnvindr." He said sincerely.
They looked at each other and nodded in mutual respect and understanding. By then, the inn was now empty as its last remaining patrons headed for their homes, awaiting the next day. The only person who was with the 2 was Charles, but had just taken his leave for the night, leaving the keys to Diluc to close for the night as requested by the owner.
As they continued their talk about miscellaneous topics, they were soon interrupted by a knock on the tavern door.
"Mr. Ragnvindr? It's me, your informant. I have the information you requested." A voice said from outside.
Diluc got up from his seat and walked towards the door.
"Come in." He said.
The door opened and a man entered the tavern. He was a young man with blond hair, blue eyes, and glasses. He wore a green coat over a white shirt, brown pants, and shoes. He had a messenger bag slung over his shoulder and a nervous expression on his face.
He looked around the tavern and saw Jayce sitting at the table. He blinked in surprise and slight nervousness, but soon after bowed slightly.
"H-hello, Mr. Colvex. I'm Timaeus, an alchemist and researcher from Mondstadt. I work for Mr. Ragnvindr as his informant." He introduced himself.
Jayce nodded politely.
"Hello, Timaeus. I'm Jayce Colvex, an adventurer and hunter. I'm here to help Mr. Ragnvindr stop Ursa's attack." He introduced himself. Timaeus looked at Diluc with a nervous expression his face, waiting for him to confirm the hunters statement. With a small smile and a nod from Diluc, Timaeus nodded in understanding and began to speak. "Mr. Ragnvindr, I have the information you requested. It's all here in this report." He said, handing him a folder with several papers inside.
Diluc took the folder and opened it. He scanned the papers quickly and nodded in satisfaction.
"Good work, Timaeus. This is exactly what I needed." He said approvingly.
Timaeus smiled slightly and then looked at Jayce.
"Mr. Colvex, if you don't mind, I'll explain the situation to you as well." He said politely.
Jayce nodded.
"Please do." He said curiously.
Timaeus cleared his throat and then began his explanation.
"According to my sources, Ursa has gathered all his remaining forces at an abandoned fortress near the border of Mondstadt and Liyue. It's an old military base that was used by the ancient civilization that ruled this land before the Archons came. It's heavily fortified and well-hidden by the mountains and forests around it. It's also full of traps and secrets that only Ursa knows about." He said informatively.
Jayce frowned in concern.
"That sounds like a tough place to attack." He said, taking in the information given with a contemplative look.
Timaeus nodded in agreement.
"It is. But we have some advantages too. First of all, we know Ursa's numbers, weapons, and strategy. He has about 200 men under his command, mostly bandits, mercenaries, and outlaws from various regions. They're armed with swords, axes, bows, crossbows, spears, shields, and explosives. They also have some animals with them, such as wolves, boars, hawks, and of course, Ursa's dragon." He said analytically.
Jayce raised an eyebrow in interest.
"Ursa has a dragon?" He asked incredulously.
Timaeus nodded gravely.
"Yes, he does. It's a fire-breathing dragon that he found in a cave near his fortress. It's not a real dragon like the ones that serve the Archons or the ones that live in Dragonspine, but a synthetic one that was created by the ancient civilization using alchemy and technology. It's still very powerful and dangerous though." He said cautiously.
Jayce nodded in understanding and curiosity. He had never seen a dragon, as they were mere fairytales and folktales of old. That fact that they exist here is... 'Just where did you send me to, old friend?' Jayce thought, chuckling on the inside.
"I see. That's impressive." He said admiringly.
Timaeus smiled slightly and then continued his explanation.
"Ursa's strategy is simple but effective: he plans to divide his forces into two groups: one group will stay at the fortress with him and his dragon to defend it from any possible attacks; the other group will ride on horses towards Mondstadt under the cover of night to launch a surprise assault on the city gates and walls; they will use their explosives to create chaos and confusion among the guards and the citizens; they will then enter the city and start killing, looting, and burning everything in their path; they will also try to find and kill Mr. Ragnvindr, who they consider their main enemy and target." He said grimly.
Jayce nods with a slight frown
"That's horrible. It's a shame we are a step ahead." He stated.
Timaeus nodded in agreement.
"Exactly. That's where our plan comes in. Our plan is to intercept Ursa's attacking group before they reach Mondstadt and stop them from reaching the city. We will use our speed, stealth, and skill to ambush them and take them out one by one. We will also try to capture or kill Ursa's dragon, which will weaken his defense and morale." He said confidently.
Jayce nodded in approval and slight excitement at the possibility of hunting a dragon, a DRAGON of all things!
"That sounds like a good plan. How many of us are there?" He asked.
Timaeus smiled slightly and then pointed to himself, Diluc, and Jayce.
"Just us three." he said proudly.
Jayce blinked in surprise and then chuckles in slight amusement.
"Just us three? You wouldn't happen to be hiding a secret weapon now, would you?" Jayce asks half-jokingly.
Timaeus nodded slightly and then shrugged.
"unfortunately, not. But we have some advantages too. First of all, we have Mr. Ragnvindr, who is the Darknight Hero, Mondstadt's vigilante protector. He's very powerful and respected, but also very skilled in hand-to-hand combat and with swords. He has a lot of skill and experience in fighting Ursa and his bandits, as well as other enemies of Mondstadt. He also has a lot of resources and allies that he can use to help us. He also has a strong sense of justice and honor that motivates him to protect Mondstadt and its people." He said admiringly.
Jayce nodded in agreement and respect.
"That's true. Mr. Ragnvindr is a true hero." He said sincerely.
Timaeus smiled slightly and then pointed to Jayce.
"Second of all, we have you, Mr. Colvex, who is an adventurer and hunter, as you say. You're also very powerful from what the townsfolk have said about you, and well respected based on how they talk about you as well. but also very exotic and mysterious. From the reports I have read about you, you have a lot of skill and experience in fighting the hilichurls and bandits in Teyvat, and experience from your home country. Based on what I can tell from your attire, you also have a lot of tools and weapons that you can use to help us." He said complimentarily. This kid is good.
Jayce nodded in agreement.
"That's true." He said, Impressed on the observation of him.
Timaeus smiled slightly and then pointed to himself.
"Third of all, we have me, Timaeus, who is an alchemist and researcher from Mondstadt. I'm not very powerful or respected, but I'm very smart and curious. I have a lot of knowledge and information about this world, its history, its secrets, its alchemy, its technology, etc. I also have a lot of gadgets and devices that I can use to help us." He said modestly.
Jayce nodded in agreement and admiration. Timaeus smiled slightly and then clapped his hands together.
"So you see, we have a lot of advantages too. We have skill, experience, knowledge, information, resources, allies, tools, weapons, gadgets, devices, motivation, etc. We also have surprise on our side: Ursa doesn't know we're coming or what we're capable of. We also have courage on our side: we're not afraid of him or his bandits or his dragon. We also have justice on our side: we're fighting for a good cause: to protect Mondstadt and its people from Ursa's attack." He said enthusiastically.
Jayce nodded in agreement.
Timaeus turned and then looked at Diluc.
"Mr. Ragnvindr, what do you think of our plan? Do you have any questions or suggestions?" He asked respectfully.
Diluc closed the folder and looked at Timaeus and Jayce.
"I think it's a good plan. It's simple but effective. It's risky but rewarding. It's bold but necessary. I have no questions or suggestions. I'm ready to go." He said decisively.
Timaeus nodded in approval and relief.
"Good. I'm glad you agree. I'm ready to go too." He said eagerly.
Jayce nodded in approval, ready to go as well.
"Good. Me too. Let's go then." He said.
They got up from their seats and gathered their belongings. They put on their coats, hats, masks, and gloves to conceal their identities and protect themselves from the cold. They also checked their weapons, tools, gadgets, and devices to make sure they were ready for action. They also took some food, drink, and medicine to sustain themselves during the mission.
They walked towards the door and opened it. They looked outside and saw that it was dark and quiet. The moon was shining brightly in the sky, casting a pale light over the city. The wind was blowing softly, carrying a chill in the air. The streets were empty and silent, except for the occasional sound of a guard patrolling or a dog barking.
They stepped outside and closed the door behind them, locking it in the process. They looked at each other and nodded in determination and confidence.
They were ready to go.
They walked towards the city gate, where they had left their horses earlier. They mounted their horses and rode out of the city, following Timaeus' directions to Ursa's fortress.
They rode fast but quietly, avoiding any unnecessary attention or trouble along the way. They passed by fields, farms, villages, forests. T But as they near their destination, they also saw some signs of Ursa's attacks: burned houses, broken carts, dead bodies, etc.
They had one goal: to put an end to Ursa's rampage and free Mondstadt from his tyranny. They galloped across the plains and hills until they arrived at their target: Ursa's stronghold. It loomed in the distance, a dark and menacing sight. After a while, they reached the massive fortress and left their horses in a nearby cave. They crept closer to the stronghold on foot, hiding behind rocks and bushes. It was a formidable structure, made of stone and metal, with towering walls, turrets, gates, and cannons. It was protected by a moat filled with water and spikes that glinted in the moon light. It also had several watchtowers and patrols of bandits that roamed around with swords and guns. They scanned the stronghold from a safe distance and looked for a way to get in. They spotted three possible entrances: the main gate, which was heavily fortified and locked with iron chains and padlocks; the side gate, which was less defended but still locked with wooden bars and bolts; and the secret tunnel, which was concealed under some vines and stones. They chose the secret tunnel, which Timaeus had discovered from one of his contacts who had infiltrated the bandits. It was located under a bridge near the moat. It was a tight and dark passage that led to a hidden door inside the stronghold. They sneaked to the bridge and located the tunnel entrance. They went in one by one, crawling on their hands and knees. They followed it until they reached the door. It was made of wood and metal, with a small peephole and a rusty handle. Diluc opened it quietly and entered the stronghold as the 2 followed close behind. They ended up in a storeroom filled with crates, barrels, sacks, and boxes. With a small amount of time, the 3 rummaged through the room for anything useful or valuable. They found some mora, food, weapons, and other items that they could use or sell later. They stuffed some of them in their backpacks and pockets. They exited the storeroom and navigated through the stronghold. The trio evaded any guards or patrols that they came across. But as they were making their way to Ursa's chamber, Jayce spotted a few guards, patrolling a corridor with their bodies to the side, watching out a window for any movements of the tree line outside. He had no choice but to kill him quickly and quietly as traps and distractions will not work on a semi big group. He looked at Diluc and Timaeus and gestured them to hide behind the door that led to another storage room next to them. With a nod from the 2 they slowly entered the room, but peeked out to see what the hunter would do. He waited for a signal from the 2, then crept to the middle of the corridor, closing the gap between him and the oblivious mercs. They didn't hear his soft footsteps until it was too late. He slid his cleaver off his back and snapped it open, letting the metal gears grind and clank in the silent air. Jayce braced himself and activated his quickening technique, a burst of speed that made him a blur of motion. He slashed at the nearest guard with his twisted blade, spilling blood and guts on the floor.
He darted from one target to another, slicing through flesh and bone with savage ease. The guards barely had time to react, let alone reach for their weapons. Their dying faces were frozen in horror and disbelief as he ended their lives. He heard a faint noise behind him and snatched some throwing knives from his hunter's jacket. More guards were coming up the stairs, alerted by the commotion he had caused. He didn't hesitate to hurl the knives with deadly precision, piercing their armor and flesh with such force that they cracked and splintered. He listened to their cries of agony and their thuds as they hit the ground. He looked back at the 2 with a smile under his mask and a small nod, signaling them to come out and to continue their mission.
Diluc and Timaeus watched in awe and shock as Jayce dispatched the guards with brutal efficiency. They had never seen anyone move so fast and kill so mercilessly. Diluc felt a surge of admiration and fear for the hunter, wondering how he could wield such a fearsome weapon and technique. He knew he was a skilled fighter, but he doubted he could match Jayce's speed and ferocity. He felt a chill run down his spine as he saw the blood and gore splattered on the walls and floor. He swallowed hard and said nothing, trying to hide his emotions from his face.
Timaeus was trembling behind the door, his eyes wide and his mouth agape. He couldn't believe what he was witnessing. He had heard stories of hunter and his abilities, but he had never imagined he could be this terrifying. He felt sick to his stomach as he saw the bodies of the guards, mutilated, and mangled by Jayce's cleaver. He wondered how anyone could survive such a weapon, let alone fight against it. He was glad that Jayce was on their side, but he also feared what he might do if he ever turned against them. He thought to himself that Jayce, for a moment, was a monster, a beast in human form. But he also knew that Jayce was a nice person, As he is reminded by all the good that he has done for the city, and all the smile he brings to some peoples faces with his presence, regardless of how overwhelming it is at times.
The group reached the central courtyard of the fortress, where they saw Ursa's dragon resting on a large platform. It was a huge beast with red scales, yellow eyes, black horns, claws, teeth, and wings. It looked like a cross between a lizard and a bat. It snored loudly as it slept, unaware of the danger that lurked nearby. They decided to try to capture or kill it before confronting Ursa himself. They knew that it would be easier to deal with it while it was asleep than while it was awake and angry. The 3 slowly approached it cautiously and quietly, using their weapons, tools, gadgets, and devices to prepare for their attack. They had a plan: Jayce would use his molotovs and his hunter tools to set it on fire and distract it; Diluc would use his sword and his pyro vision to slash its vital spots and burn it; Timaeus would use his bombs and his alchemy to blow up its wings and tail and weaken it. They hoped that their combined efforts would be enough to take down the mighty dragon. It was time to strike. They attacked it simultaneously from different angles. Jayce threw some molotovs at its head and body, setting it on fire. The flames licked its scales and flesh, causing it to scream in pain. He also used his hunter tools, such as throwing knives, pebbles, and whistles, to distract and confuse it. He threw a knife at its eye, blinding it temporarily. With an opportunity presenting itself as the dragon took its attention away from the hunter, he decided let go of his saw cleaver as it sank to the ground quickly with the help of the little ones that were only visible to him, and his hand was now carrying the Ludwig's Holy Blade that had appeared in his hands out of thin air from their help. He switched the sword from its normal mode to its transformed mode, making it extend into a large greatsword with a serrated edge. He swung the blade at its neck with great force, cleaving through its scales and flesh. Diluc slashed its neck and chest with his sword, cutting its flesh and blood vessels. His sword glowed with pyro energy, igniting the wounds, and making them bleed more profusely. He also used his pyro vision to create fireballs and firestorms that rained down on the dragon, scorching its skin and scales. He aimed for its heart and lungs, hoping to stop its circulation and respiration. Timaeus threw some bombs at its wings and tail, blowing them up. The explosions ripped through its membranes and muscles, crippling its mobility and balance. He also used his alchemy to create acid and poison that corroded its scales and flesh, making it more vulnerable to attacks. He targeted its joints and tendons, hoping to disable its limbs.
The dragon woke up with a roar of pain and rage. It thrashed around wildly, trying to shake off its attackers and extinguish its flames. It snapped its jaws at Jayce, who dodged them narrowly by side stepping to the side with practiced ease. It swung its claws at Diluc, who parried them skillfully with his sword, but the sheer weight of the attack stumbled the red-haired fighter back a several steps. It whipped its tail at Timaeus, who ducked under it quickly by sliding on his knees, letting out a terrified yelp. They continued their assault, using their speed, agility, and coordination to avoid its attacks and inflict more damage. They also communicated with each other through gestures and signals, telling each other when to attack or retreat or switch targeted parts. Gradually the dragon began to look worn down. While it is bleeding heavily from multiple wounds all over its body; scorched by fire; battered by explosions; corroded by acid, and more. However, it also became more angry; desperate; unpredictable... dangerous.
It tried to escape by flapping its wings furiously, but they were too damaged to lift it off the ground. It tried to fight back by spitting fireballs and acid at them, but they dodged them easily or blocked them with their weapons or tools. It even tried to intimidate them by roaring loudly and baring its teeth, but they were not afraid of it as thought they were. Jayce was able to dash underneath the damaged beast to deliver the killing blows as he began smash its heart in quick succession with his Ludwig's Holy Blade. He slammed the greatsword into its chest; crushing through its ribs; smashing its heart and making it stop beating. He pulled out the greatsword swiftly and dashed out the way of the falling beast as it cannot hold its body weight with its feet. As its body fell, barely breathing, he wasted no time in thrusting the great sword upward into its skull, breaking through its bone, and smashing its brain, causing it to shutter with a gurgle growl before ceasing to move any further. He withdrew the greatsword slowly, letting the blood drip from its edge. They looked at each other and nodded in relief and satisfaction. They had done it. They had killed Ursa's dragon.
But their victory was short-lived. Even though the dragon was killed off, that didn't mean the castle was cleared as the remaining 40 or so soldiers were running to their location since they now knew where the sound of the battle came from. They could hear their footsteps and shouts getting closer and closer. The rest of the guards showed up with their weapons drawn, but looked horrified to see the dragon was killed by just 3 people. They saw the bloodied corpse of the beast; the severed limbs; the charred flesh; the smashed head; and they felt a surge of fear and awe. They looked around nervously on what to do; a lone guard ran towards them with his sword in hand but was quickly killed violently by Jayce's Holy Ludwigs greatsword. He sliced through his chest with ease, sending blood and guts flying everywhere.
The rest of the guards paled at the sight; and Diluc stepped forward and addressed them. He said "Listen up! You have two choices: either you drop your weapons and run, or you stay here and die like your dragon. We have no mercy for those who serve Ursa, the tyrant. But we are not heartless killers either. We will spare you if you surrender and flee. This is your only chance. Decide now!" He spoke in a loud and authoritative voice; making eye contact with each of them; making them feel his power and confidence. After a few tense moments they all caved to the offer and tossed their weapons to the ground while running away as fast as they could.
They left the dragon's corpse and made their way to Ursa's quarters, where they expected to find him. They saw that it was a large and luxurious room, decorated with expensive furniture, paintings, rugs, and trophies. The furniture was made of fine wood and leather, the paintings depicted scenes of war and conquest, the rugs were woven from exotic animal fur, and the trophies were the heads and skins of rare and dangerous beasts. It was also full of weapons, armor, money, jewels, and other valuables that Ursa had stolen or extorted from his victims. The weapons were sharp and shiny, the armor was heavy and sturdy, the money was piled in chests and bags, the jewels were sparkling and dazzling, and the other valuables were varied and precious. The room was a display of Ursa's power and wealth, but also his greed and vanity. They searched the room for Ursa, but they didn't find him...
But instead discovered some paperwork that revealed Ursa's strategy that was confirmed by Timeaus. And next to the strategy, was a note in plain sight for them to see.
"Dear Darknight Hero,
If you're reading this, it means you've killed my dragon and reached my quarters. Congratulations. You've proven yourself to be a worthy adversary.
But don't get too cocky. You haven't won yet. You've only delayed the inevitable.
By the time you read this, I'll be on my way to Mondstadt with my men. We'll be there soon, and we'll start our attack.
You can try to stop us, but you'll fail. You're outnumbered and outmatched. We have more men, more weapons, more explosives, and more determination than you.
We also have a secret weapon that you don't know about. A weapon that will ensure our victory and your doom.
It's a bomb that I stole from the ancient civilization's ruins. A bomb that can create a massive explosion that can destroy an entire city or region.
I've planted it under Mondstadt's cathedral, where it will detonate at dawn. When it does, it will blow up the city and everyone in it, including you.
You can't stop it. You can't defuse it. You can't escape it.
You can only watch as your precious Mondstadt goes up in flames.
This is my revenge for what you did to my father. This is my legacy to the world.
This is the end of the Darknight Hero and Mondstadt.
See you in hell,
Ursa the Drake"
They read the note and felt a surge of shock and horror.
They realized that Ursa had tricked them and had one more ace up his sleeve: a bomb that could cause a massive explosion that could wipe out an entire city or region. He planned to use it as a last resort if his attack failed.
The readers were appalled and terrified by what they learned. Ursa was not just a cruel and greedy bandit leader, but a madman who wanted to annihilate Mondstadt and everything in it.
They exchanged a look of resolve and urgency.
They left Ursa's quarters and ran out of the fortress. They found their horses in the cave and mounted them. They rode back to Mondstadt as fast as they could, hoping to reach it before Ursa and his men did. Ursa's motive were clear: he had a personal grudge against Diluc, whom he held responsible for his father's death. He vowed to kill Diluc and take over his business and wealth as revenge. He also threatened to kill anyone who sided with Diluc or who opposed him. Ursa will be stopped, one way, or another...