Edited: 01/04/23

Act I

Chapter III

Ill Omens Ahead


Ningguang's excitement was palpable as she bid farewell to Granny Chu. She and Aether set off towards the main road heading west, eager to leave the shoal behind. Despite having spent the majority of her life in this small beach, Ningguang was ready to embrace new opportunities in the city, and Aether had promised that the possibilities were virtually limitless there.

This was her moment to truly shine!

As they walked, the journey was uneventful, and it was clear that Mister Aether was still struggling to walk by himself. However, when they reached a Milileth outpost near the main road, Ningguang was shocked to see how quickly Aether had recovered from his injuries.

Aether asked for recommendations on good places to eat, and Ningguang suggested a small and humble inn located along the main road. However, the prices at the inn were quite high. Ningguang tried to avoid the place as much as possible, especially when it was crowded. Nevertheless, she had an acquaintance relationship with the young inn owner, Mr. Zhu, who was a generous guy despite having some outdated thinking. His business was now booming, and Ningguang was excited to show Aether around her home region!

Ningguang often found her companion, Aether, to be unpredictable and easily distracted. It seemed that whenever they were on their journey, Aether's attention was frequently drawn to small details and trivial items. He would wander off course to pick up a plant or investigate a shiny object, causing their travels to take longer than expected.

She wouldn't complain, as it seemed to bring joy to Mister Aether. An odd spot here, a shiny object there.

As they arrived at the roadside inn, Ningguang couldn't help but wonder if this was how Aether had stumbled upon her in the first place. Did he simply wander around aimlessly until he stumbled into some sort of trouble or stumbled upon her by chance? It was a perplexing thought, but it was difficult to determine the true nature of Aether's intentions or motives.

Was he just a customer or a companion she can trust? How foolish, of course Ningguang can trust him, she wouldn't be here on her way to an uncertain future in the city without him.

Despite his unpredictable behavior, Ningguang couldn't deny that Aether was a valuable companion. His cheerful demeanor and lighthearted approach to life brought a much-needed sense of levity to their travels, which were often fraught with unseen dangers and uncertainties. She couldn't help but wonder how he managed to stay alive for so long, and suspected it was due to his preparedness and gear.

Ningguang had witnessed numerous adventurers stumbling upon Granny Chu's home, but most of them would just wander aimlessly, confused and lost. She harbored a small disdain for such clueless individuals, but her perspective changed when she met mister Aether. He arrived at the shoal in search of something, and at first, Ningguang assumed he was just another lost adventurer. However, she soon noticed the vacant expression in his eyes, a look she knew all too well from the day she lost her entire family. This realization left her stunned.

It was hard to ignore a lost soul like her, people who lost everything and were left with nothing. At least she had Granny Chu, but Mister Aether was all by himself. Did he really have no one left?

She had no right to assume.

Despite her initial doubts, Ningguang approached him anyway, hoping this encounter would be different. However, she was taken aback by how quickly he had sized her up. He held himself in a guarded stance when she called out to him, but soon relaxed once he assessed that she posed no threat to him. She couldn't help but notice the way he looked at her, as if he could see right through her. It made her feel vulnerable, especially when she realized that she had sand, dust, and sweat clinging to her skin, and yet he seemed to be looking at her with interest.

Ningguang had never felt so self-conscious about her appearance before, as it seemed unnecessary. But being scrutinized by a handsome stranger made her feel like a stained and unkempt girl. However, his soft smile and calm demeanor made her reconsider. She felt as though her looks and meager wealth wouldn't matter to him.

As she noticed his wistful gaze, she couldn't help but wonder if she reminded him of someone he knew from the past.

Ningguang was impressed by his appearance. His outfit looked well-crafted, with high-quality materials that appeared to be recently used. The cloth was a mix of bare white and gray, and his tight pants complemented his overall look. She couldn't help but notice the gauntlets and armor plating that covered his arms, legs, and left shoulder.

Despite the impressive outfit, his weapon left something to be desired, but Ningguang was fascinated by his skillful use of it.

Ningguang had observed many Guhua students practicing their techniques at the shoal with their seniors, but none could match the raw power and precision of mister Aether's savage swings and accurate strikes. His skills left no doubt in her mind that he was capable of killing someone, if necessary. She despised the fact that violence was sometimes seen as a solution by certain individuals, but mister Aether was different. In contrast to the other killers she had encountered on the shoals, he exhibited a level of kindness and consideration that was unusual.

As a vendor of Starconchs, Ningguang faced the disdain of ordinary people and nearby villagers, who mocked her simple wares. She knew they had a point - Starconchs were as common as any rocks that could be found on the shore. However, what made her products special was their quality. She had spent long hours collecting and cleaning them until they were perfect. Nevertheless, few customers were willing to buy them. Later, she learned that they only bought them out of pity.

Fewer still consider it worth the effort.

Ningguang had been disheartened by how few people appreciated the quality of her wares.

But mister Aether was different. He seemed happy to purchase anything from her, and he even complimented her on the better quality of her products. It made her giddy with joy to have someone appreciate her craft and hard work for the first time.

Ningguang's gentle feeling in her chest turned to unmitigated horror when she spotted a Ruin Guard stomping towards them. She knew they were in trouble. Before she could even warn him, the Ruin Guard fired several missiles in their direction. Mister Aether acted quickly and pulled her out of harm's way.

Ningguang scurried to find a hiding spot to take cover. A few seconds later, she peeked out from behind a rock and witnessed a fierce battle between Mister Aether and the Ruin Guard. To her, it seemed like the fight was over in mere moments, but to them, it could have lasted much longer.

She was undeniably scared, but the thought of the kind man losing and dying because of her was more terrifying than anything she could have ever imagined. She peeked out again, only to squeak in terror as debris hurdled her way - a mistake she still regretted to this moment.

His kind and worried eyes struck her, yelling at her to get down.

In that split second of distraction, the machine struck back, and Ningguang held back a scream as she watched the man's body fly through the air like a ragdoll before hitting a boulder.

Ningguang believed that the man was dead, and the weight of his passing weighed heavily on her. He was a compassionate and gentlemanly person who appreciated her simple way of life and praised her wares when no one else did. She felt her heart break and her soul slowly descending into the depths of despair.

But then, to her surprise, the man's body began to stir. He struggled to get up and fight back, and Ningguang's emotions shifted from despair to confusion and then to relief. She couldn't believe that he was still alive, and the realization filled her with hope. Perhaps there was still a chance for things to turn out okay.

Even now, that image made her frown. She remembered last night doing her best to treat him whilst he was still unconscious.

"Why wouldn't he just run away?" she wondered. "Leave me here to face the Ruin Guard as a distraction. I would understand if he did." She felt powerless, weak, and small. She could barely throw a rock a few meters ahead without panting in exhaustion. It seemed like she could do nothing... but pray.

Ningguang's heart raced with fear and desperation as she gazed upon the injured man lying before her. She had never felt so helpless and powerless in her life. But she couldn't give up on him. She closed her eyes and clasped her hands together, praying with all her might to the Geo Archon and any god who could hear her plea for help. She begged for strength, for courage, for any means to save this man's life.

No, she couldn't accept defeat so easily. Ningguang was willing to pay any price, no matter how steep, to gain the power to fight back. Even if it meant selling her soul to demons, she would do it without hesitation if it meant she could save this man.

With her resolve steeled, Ningguang opened her eyes and took a deep breath.

Ningguang felt her legs move of their own accord as she charged towards the giant, leaving her box of Starconch behind. She knew it would only slow her down. She ran as fast as she could, determined to face her fears and stand up to the creature before her.

With desperate tears in her eyes and with courage burning her heart, she felt the earth move.

Ningguang was surprised at how familiar and powerful it felt to hold her arms forward, as if standing up against the cruelty of the world was a long-lost memory returning to her. And then, as Geo particles rained down on the Ruin Guard's weak spot, she understood why. The creature was left trembling in agony, unable to defend itself against the onslaught. Mister Aether plunged his weapon fiercely into its eye, dealing the final blow. The intense exertion left both of them weakened, Ningguang's legs threatening to give way beneath her. Just as she thought she would collapse, a golden light descended from the heavens like a shooting star, and miraculously granted her deepest wish.

Upon awakening, Ningguang felt a sense of urgency as Yu shook her awake. She looked around for a moment before noticing him holding smaller parts of the massive remains of the Ruin Guard. Without hesitation, she grabbed him and pulled him towards Mister Aether. He was scared, as Yu rationed that it was this unconscious stranger who was responsible for dealing with a Ruin Guard.

Despite his fear, she made it clear that he had to help her, or he would be in trouble. Yu and his boat were free of service that evening.

Ningguang took a short boat ride, and as they passed the remains of the Ruin Guard, she noticed a boy who appeared to be older than her gazing at them. His stare was unnerving, and his posture seemed strange, almost otherworldly. Just as quickly as he appeared, he vanished like mist. It was a strange encounter, and Ningguang couldn't shake off the feeling of unease. She wondered if she was hallucinating, but dismissed the thought, realizing it had been a long day.

She spent the night patching up the man and explaining to Granny Chu what had happened, and after that, the whole incident became history as far as she was concerned.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she noticed that Mister Aether was staring at her with a meaningful look. She wondered what could be the reason for it.

Suddenly, he spoke up, his voice sounding a bit nervous, "Hey, um, do you want to grab a bite to eat?"

She was surprised by the offer but also felt her stomach grumble at the thought of food. "Sure," she replied, a small smile forming on her lips.

"We'll order," Aether said towards a bored-looking waiter.

The polite thing to do was to say no, but she was a little hungry, so a small snack might do. "I'll purchase cheap snacks for myself-"

Mister Aether scoffed, "Nonsense, I'll treat you with some sweets and a real meal. Waiter! Jade Parcels and Almond Tofu please. Oh, and one bowl of Calla Lily soup for me."

J-jade Parcels?! Almond Tofu? That's just- Expensive!

"W-wait! I couldn't afford food at those prices!" Ningguang exclaimed, utterly bewildered at the man's dismissal of the exorbitant charges. She couldn't understand how anyone could dare charge such exorbitant prices for such simple foods. The prices were so high that they could turn her months of profits into mere chump change in seconds!

Ugh, of course Mr. Zhu did not listen to her suggestions.

"Who said you would pay?" Aether said, pulling out a massive pouch bulging with Mora nonchalantly. "Let me treat you. It's the least I could do."

Ningguang's tongue felt foreign to her, causing her words to come out as gibberish. She had underestimated mister Aether's ability to earn Mora, as she thought she knew everything about it. While she had a total of ten-thousand Mora safely tucked in a pouch by her side, she realized that it was nothing compared to the amount that he could potentially have.

As she looked at the man across from her, Ningguang felt a sense of inadequacy wash over her. Ningguang's pouch was roughly made, and found often by disposed trash left by people to the shoal.

The simple bag of dirt filled with her Mora and the wooden box containing her collection of Starconchs seemed so meager compared to his composed demeanor when handling Mora. And as the waiter placed two plates of luxurious delicacies and a sweet dessert in front of her, the contrast became even starker. Even the waiter was shocked, even more so when Aether insisted they accept his generous tip.

"Almond Tofu and Jade Parcels. Enjoy your meal! And sir, here's the bill. Is there anything else you would like to order?" The young woman's bored tone was suddenly replaced with shock and awe. Ningguang wasn't the only one who thought that her companion might be a noble or someone of high status.

"I'll call if there's more," Aether briefly dismissed the waitress. He pulled out around a few thousand Mora and paid the bill. And a small clink of a bunch of Mora shoved into the waitress' hands certainly was a sight.

Ningguang was impressed and curious.

Aether was just reminiscing.

The scenery at Mr. Zhu's inn brought back fond memories of the times he spent with Mona. The tables and chairs were made of simple bamboo, just like the ones they used to sit on. Although the inn was nothing fancy, just a wooden structure with some additional chairs and tables inside, Aether preferred the view of the mountains. He realized they were only an hour's walk away from the city of Liyue.

Noticing that Ningguang still hasn't touched her food, Aether grew worried that she might not like it. He knew that Ningguang didn't enjoy fancy food, but Jade Parcels were a simple meal. However, he wasn't sure if the ones they had ordered were up to her taste. Aether considered making them himself if they had the ingredients. He was confident that he could make a much better pastry than what they were served, and he didn't want the poor girl to leave unsatisfied.

Aether frowned, "Should I order something else?" He was worried he might've angered her. Aether could only scratch his head. "It's okay if you don't like it."

Ningguang's eyes widened in horror as she realized how quiet she had been. "No, no! It's just that I've never tasted fancy foods before," she quickly explained, feeling embarrassed.

"Perhaps I should order something simpler, like soup," Aether suggested with a smile, curious to hear her opinion on the matter.

Ningguang blushed at his soft gaze, feeling embarrassed. "No need, thank you for the meal," she mumbled softly, avoiding his golden eyes with her shy ruby ones.

Aether still had some doubts, but he decided not to push too hard. He wondered if he had crossed a boundary that Ningguang wouldn't appreciate. Although he knew Ningguang both figuratively and literally, her age might have made a difference. Aether was still uncertain about how to behave around his "sort-of" friends, so he treated them with the same gentle care and enormous respect as always.

They deserved the best, and nothing in this new world could ever convince him otherwise.

Ningguang was flattered by Aether's attention, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that it wasn't just about repaying her for what had happened the day before. It felt as if he had known her for a long time, and was treating her accordingly. However, the thought of disappointing him made her feel apprehensive and scared of her own actions.

Granny Chu had always been a mother figure to Ningguang, but the young man standing before her was entirely different. Despite only having met him yesterday afternoon, Ningguang felt a sense of nostalgia around him. His smile made her feel safe and secure, though she couldn't explain why.

As Ningguang reluctantly picked up her utensils, Aether couldn't help but feel satisfied. He observed the joy and utter bliss on her face as she took a bite of the almond tofu, and couldn't help but think that a certain Yaksha might approve of her taste. The two sat in comfortable silence, interrupted only by the occasional cute yelps and squeals of delight from the girl.

Aether smiled genuinely.

This was a waste of time and a distraction, but one Aether sorely needed.


Aether and a contented Ningguang finally arrived at the arched entranceway to Liyue Harbor, with only a few stairs standing between them and the entrance. The Statue of the Seven of Rex Lapis stood beside them, serving as an obstacle. Ningguang hummed a tune that was unfamiliar to Aether, and as they were walking, he suddenly stopped in his tracks.

"Is everything okay, Mister?" Ningguang asked with concern.

Aether let out a small sigh, "For the last time, Ningguang, it's just Aether now, okay?" He suppressed an annoyed groan, but he had a feeling that Ningguang was enjoying teasing him with formality. "Nothing's wrong, but maybe taking a break would be good. The bustling city can be exhausting later on."

Ningguang nodded eagerly at his answer, and Aether couldn't help but feel curious about her behavior. She had been uncharacteristically silent on their way here, and it was beginning to worry him. Memories of yesterday resurfaced in his mind, and he couldn't help but wonder if something was troubling her. Perhaps it was her newfound possession of a Vision or the recent attack by the Ruin Guard. He couldn't be sure, as he was preoccupied with his own thoughts.

"Look over there, a group of couples seem interested in your wares!" Aether suggested with a smile. "This might be your only chance to sell before we enter the city. Why don't you go and offer your goods to them?"

Ningguang followed his pointed finger to the dozen people gathered in a small village nearby and nodded happily. She left to approach them, leaving Aether alone with the statue. He reached out and made contact with the statue, praying for the blessings of Geo to be bestowed upon him.

Aether eagerly accepted the expected shining golden light that descended from the stone form of Rex Lapis and felt the divine blessing flow into him. The earth around him seemed to turn into a fluid, and the strength and knowledge he gained felt like a refreshing cold shower after a hot day. It was invigorating, and he felt like he could take on any challenge. The sensation was like a gentle breeze and a steady stream of energy that flowed into his soul, providing another element to his arsenal. He resolved not to be caught off-guard again so easily this time.

The next opponent he faced would undoubtedly feel the full force of his earth and wind powers. His ability to crush foes quickly and control the flow of battle was a skill he had honed over time. The fact that he had multiple elements at his disposal only added to his strength, making him a reliable tool for violence. However, he couldn't help but feel that his lack of a Vision made him stand out in a world where such things were highly valued. Perhaps investing in a fake Vision would help to cover his unnatural abilities. He had also recently acquired a new outfit that made him look more like an "adventurer," making it less likely that he would draw unwanted attention.

Aether turned around at the sound of slow footsteps and saw Ningguang approaching him, looking dejected. He felt a pang of sympathy and asked, "They weren't interested, were they?" Aether couldn't help but feel a little guilty about deceiving her for his own benefit, but he now had a valuable asset at his disposal and vowed to use it wisely. He couldn't help but think to himself that he sounded like La Signora, the leader of the Fatui, with his shrewd approach in hiding his true nature.

Even from his old friends.

Ningguang sighed, her disappointment palpable. "No, they weren't," she replied glumly. "They said my wares were not up to the standards of those here in Liyue. One lady even went as far as to say they preferred jewels to barren shells."

Aether shook his head in disbelief. "Don't pay any attention to them," he said firmly. "They wouldn't know a real gem from a fake one. It's either ignorance or arrogance that makes them think that way. But don't worry, I know a guy who buys Starconch at a good price. Maybe you'll be able to make some profit out of that."

Aether's smile grew wider as he saw the little girl's mood improve after his statement. Memories of stumbling upon Old Wu's stall at the market with Paimon came flooding back to him. They had been unsure of what to do with the Starconch he had in his possession until they met the old man, who was more than willing to buy them off his hands, provided the price was right. He couldn't help but wonder if Old Wu was still around, running his stall at the market. If he was, he might be pleased to buy off the high-quality Starconch from little Ningguang's hands.

"Let's go before the sun sets," Aether urged as he motioned for Ningguang to follow him towards the massive stairs. Without complaint, she fell in step with him and both made their way towards the city, now visible in the distance.

He couldn't help but smirk as he watched the girl gasp in awe at the sight before her. With the sun setting over the horizon, the city looked as beautiful as ever. Aether couldn't help but wonder if this was how Ningguang had seen Liyue for the first time - in a state of childlike wonder and absolute bewilderment. If so, he couldn't blame her - even he was still awed by the city's spectacle. But the best part was yet to come.

Aether didn't want to waste any more time, so he continued to guide the still-awed child. However, they were not alone in their journey to the city. Hundreds of merchants, visitors, and even a few villagers had gathered at the main entrance, making it heavily crowded. Aether narrowed his eyes as he saw several Millelith soldiers standing guard at the front gate.

The entrance remained as grand as ever, with the aged wood and stone of the massive structure still appearing new to the naked eye. Aether knew that the ancient magic of Morax prevented the structure from withering away. Every stone foundation had been raised and formed by Morax himself. Liyue was not simply old, nor was it new. The balance between old and new was a defining trait of the city.

"Wait! Mister Aether, look!"

As Aether was about to speak to Ningguang, his attention was drawn towards a trader entering the city and handing a pouch of Mora to one of the guards. Despite the trader's annoyance, he continued forward with his cart. However, Aether noticed that the Millelith guards seemed uneasy and there was a general feeling of tension in the air. Even the people in line appeared disgruntled but accepted the situation. It was clear that something was not right.

As Aether and Ningguang arrived at the entrance, a Millelith soldier stepped in front of them, blocking their path. "Halt," he commanded, "state your intentions, travelers. Are you here as visitors, traders, or citizens of Liyue?"

"I am an adventurer," Aether stated matter-of-factly, earning a nervous squawk from Ningguang. It wasn't the answer the Millelith was expecting.

Not wanting to deal with the Adventurer's Guild, as Aether's outfit made him look like one of their members, the Millelith let him go with a look of contempt. "Hmph, a visitor then. On your way then- Halt! You there, state your business," the guard said sharply as he reached out to grab Ningguang's small arms like a viper.

It elicited a yelp from her, and Aether's heart clenched with concern and anger.

Aether's hand twitched towards his shattered blade, but the seasoned guard next to the Millelith, who had dared to threaten Ningguang, stopped him. "I'm sorry, but we have strict orders not to allow anyone inside. Could you please tell me if you are a visitor, trader, or citizen?" The guard's smile was somewhat pained, as he looked at Aether's sneer and Ningguang's anxious expression.

After a moment of hesitation, Aether's hand moved to his sheath, but he kept a close watch on the girl. Her anxiety was palpable as she struggled to come up with an answer. Aether gave her a reassuring smile, which helped to calm her nerves. "C-citizen...?" she answered hesitantly.

The Millelith cast a contemptuous glare at her, a sneer curling his lips as he spoke. "I see," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "Do you possess an identification permit?"

"I don't, but…I-" She tried to put up a brave front, perhaps for Mister Aether, but the man's unnerving stare made her falter.

"Then no entry," the Millelith cut her off, ignoring the unnerving gazes from his other colleagues. "Rodents are not allowed in our fair city," he gestured uncaringly towards Ningguang's small form. Aether himself was dead-staring at his head, his eyes narrowing in anger. "Next-"

This time, Aether was the one to act first. He grabbed the man's arm and shoved him aside, cutting off his attempt to harm the girl. The other Millelith soldiers aimed their spears, but quickly realized that they wouldn't win the battle. The leader of the group, who had previously held the girl and scoffed at her, now looked on in surprise. One of the younger officers scowled at his leader, his brown eyes nervously meeting Aether's gaze. Though he knew some adventurers were strong, he also knew that making an enemy of one was a mistake.

This man wasn't like the adventurers he had met before; there was no glint of curiosity or excitement in his eyes. Instead, there was a dangerous aura emanating from him, making him seem like a seemingly ordinary man with something sinister lurking beneath the surface.

"What's the meaning of this? How dare you-" The black-haired Millelith began to protest before a sudden pain silenced him. However, the pain he felt was nothing compared to the terror that filled him and his comrades when they saw the golden eyes of the person before them. It was as if those eyes could pierce through their very souls and strip away their determination.

Aether had the privilege of learning about the origins of the Millelith from none other than Zhongli himself during a shared meal, which he graciously paid for as Zhongli was still awaiting his salary from a rarely disgruntled Funeral Director. As they dined, Zhongli recounted a tale of bravery and sacrifice, detailing how the Millelith Brigade was formed during the Archon War with humans as its only members, serving as an honor guard for Rex Lapis. Despite being mere mortals, they fought against the evils that plagued the land with the same courage as their divine counterparts, standing guard until their fall during the occupation of Liyue in the previous timeline. The name "Thousand Rock Army" alone was enough to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.

Zhongli was somewhat disappointed with his lack of attention to the Millelith, but at the same time, he was satisfied with their role as the guardians of the city. Aether knew that the tradition of "standing firm against evil" was just a label for morale. He had witnessed even some of the most seasoned veterans quiver in fear at the sight of Osial's manifested form, which had threatened the city. He didn't blame them, but the image of brave soldiers had shattered when several had even urinated on the spot.

Not that it would endear them to Aether at this moment, with murder in his eyes as he glared towards these cowards- the so-called "Millelith" of Liyue.

Releasing the vice-grip that had spectacularly crushed the poor man's arms, Aether gave a smile that was far from modest. It wasn't the smile of a kind man that unsettled them, but rather the smile of a monster that was telling its prey to calm down. The ominous aura around Aether made it clear that the outcome would be dire if things went poorly.

"Surely, this could all be a misunderstanding. Perhaps the poor girl has lost her permit. Can't you just give her a break?" Aether calmly suggested, his gaze challenging them to act recklessly.

Fengyan, who was open to negotiation, responded in a composed manner, "Of course! It's not that a permit is absolutely necessary-"

"No!" the black-haired Millelith harshly interrupted his comrade, "Do you have any idea what Sheng will do to us if he finds out we're slacking!? That damned gangster would have our heads!"

Aether narrowed his eyes, his curiosity piqued, and barely noticed Ningguang meekly hiding behind him. A gangster? The only criminal element present in Liyue were the Treasure Hoarders. Or was it exclusive to the past? He realized he needed to tread carefully if he didn't want to attract unwanted attention. If the Millelith were concerned, then the Qixing must have allowed this to happen. Sadly, such things were common. The Qixing would not interfere unless it threatened the prosperity of Liyue and disrupted trade. If the people were a little upset, what harm could it do?

He was then reminded that it wasn't his time, this wasn't the Liyue that he remembered. Aether looked back, Ningguang hiding behind him. When she came into power, she got rid of the older, and even more incompetent rich merchants.

It was brushed aside, forgotten by the years before he came to Liyue looking for his sister then.

But gangs? Street violence should have left a particular impact, as no one of his friends in Liyue ever mentioned them. Bad memories perhaps? Or were they just left for history to pick out?

Suddenly, a memory flashed into his mind. He recalled how Ningguang had confronted and defeated the Syndicate, which had marked the beginning of her career as Tianquan. She had refused to follow their harsh regulations and had become the only merchant to do so. As he thought about it, more information about the Syndicate flooded his mind, and he saw flashes of Ningguang's life before his eyes.

Lu Sheng, also known as the Lord of Mountains, was a user of Geo vision who had fallen from grace, having abused the power bestowed upon him by the gods. The Syndicate, on the other hand, was an international criminal organization composed of five families. Ningguang had only focused on apprehending Lu Sheng and left the fall of the Syndicate to shimmer, as her priority was Liyue and nothing else mattered at the time.

Apart from that, nothing else came to mind. More questions, less answers came to him.

Aether hummed in thought as he pulled out a pouch filled with Mora and offered it to the Millelith member who seemed determined to obey Sheng's orders. He suspected that these soldiers were being bribed to provide information about traders and citizens to a criminal organization, which could potentially exploit them. However, visitors and adventurers like himself were likely exempt from such surveillance, as they wouldn't want to provoke the Adventurers' Guild.

"Here, for the trouble," Aether said nonchalantly as he handed the gaping guard some Mora. He didn't care about the expense; he had plenty to spare. "And just to be clear, the child is with me. If anyone asks, I'll handle any issues on my own."

The guard begrudgingly accepted the bribe, and his comrades breathed a sigh of relief as Aether and Ningguang continued towards the bridge.

Aether would have typically resolved the situation with a heated argument, perhaps even resorting to physical force, but he restrained himself. He knew that doing so would only put the child in further danger. Besides, he was confident he could take on the entire brigade if needed, but there was no need to take unnecessary risks.

Especially since their God was still active in Liyue. Earning the attention of Rex Lapis is the last thing Aether wanted, much worse than young Jean's and Varka's. At least with them, Aether could create a believable story that could last long enough for him to leave, but lying to an Archon as old as Zhongli?

He could pick out Aether's words faster than Venti could drink a bottle of Dandelion Wine.

Speaking of the child, Aether noticed the worried look in her eyes and asked, "Hey, are you okay? I didn't scare you too much, did I?"

Ningguang shook her head firmly, indicating that she was not scared by Aether's actions. She then gave him a kind smile and asked, "Don't worry, mister Aether. I was just scared of the Millelith. I'm just wondering why you gave them Mora. Is it required? Because if we have to pay every time we leave, I don't think I have enough money..."

She felt embarrassed and helpless after Aether paid for her lunch earlier, but the stares from the people behind her made her feel even more ashamed. Facing a Ruin Guard was one thing, but the looks of disgust, wariness, disbelief, and shock from the traders and citizens behind the line made her feel like she didn't belong there. It was as if they saw her as a country bumpkin who had no place among them. Even though she had been treated no differently by the Millelith, the stares continued and no one tried to protest, as if it was a normal thing.

And then Aether happened to vouch for her; her lack of privilege to enter was paid off indifferently. But why her? Why did a distinguished adventurer even bother with a child like her? She had already paid her debts, hadn't she? What more could he want?

"Is paying Mora to make a problem go away a normal thing around here?" Ningguang asked, ignoring the pointed looks she was receiving from behind.

"Sometimes there are certain things that can be peacefully resolved by Mora," Aether wisely replied, pretty much copying Ningguang's own philosophy in her life. But in the end, he knew better than to question the wisdom of Dainsleif. He could still hear his altruistic and mysterious voice speak to him.

"The truth of this world, Aether, is that violence is a universal language shared among sentient beings," Dain said, his voice low and measured. "You and your sister have danced that dance many times, haven't you? But the price of that truth is the blood that is inevitably spilled."

It was that tragic truth that gave conflict between them, too stubborn to give up their cause, until Lumine perished of his dogged-belief in the Seven Nations' struggle against Celestia. He chose the world over his own sister.

She chose her cause. She chose the Abyss over you.

Aether shook his head, not believing that for a second. Lumine fought Celestia for him, for the injustice of this world. Both him and Khaenri'ah.

"But Ningguang's belief has merit. Among mortals, the communication of bargain and price sets the gauge of civility. The Tianquan knows this better than most," Aether thought to himself. He knew that was why he had held himself back in that situation, to avoid unnecessary conflict. "Ugh, great, now I sound like Ningguang. What's happening to me?" he pondered.

Ningguang was staring at him, inquisitive eyes yearning for clarity. He shrugged, "In the end, everyone has a price."

"So... having Mora means having power?" she asked with uncertainty.

"Indeed," he replied with a patient smile. "That kind of situation often requires a delicate touch of what is called "bribery" to resolve most questions. Of course, it doesn't work in all cases."

Some people's cause are their currency, but Ningguang was not supposed to learn that hard truth. Not yet.

The girl's mood seemed to improve, but Aether could sense that something was still troubling Ningguang. He made a mental note to ask her about it later. For now, they had a city of trade to explore.

Both of them crossed the massive bridge and were greeted by the bustling markets of Liyue. If Aether thought the Harvest Festival was packed, this was a regular day in Liyue. Truly, the Harbor City knows no rival. Aether smiled, reminiscing about the precious memories he spent here. He and Paimon were awestruck when they first arrived, and it was no different this time. It seems that Ningguang was feeling the same way.

"Wow!" Ningguang couldn't help but be awed by the sight. "I never knew Liyue is so BIG!"

Aether chuckled at the bouncing girl, her ruby eyes shining brighter than the fading sun. The sight was truly breathtaking for those who witnessed it for the first time. The hundreds of small stalls carefully arranged throughout the lower platform of the city were an eye-opener for visitors. The variety of goods, including food, clothing, accessories, flowers, furniture, toys, and even small snacks, were readily available to the public, provided they had the Mora. However, this was out of the question for those who lived in the most prosperous city in Teyvat.

Everyone had Mora to spare.

Now, unto business.

"Look, why don't we split up for a while and meet later at the Liuli Pavilion," Aether suggested apologetically, sensing Ningguang's hesitation. "I understand we just got here, but there are some things I need to take care of, and it's best if we handle them separately for now."

"Huh?!" Ningguang was startled by Aether's sudden suggestion to separate temporarily. "But we just got here, and I..." she trailed off, clearly not wanting to be left alone.

"No worries," Aether replied with a reassuring smile. "We'll meet up at the Liuli Pavilion restaurant as planned. But before that, you should look for a man named Wu at the fish market near the wharf. He'll give you a good price for your Starconch, hopefully. And then, buy some appropriate clothes, especially the affordable ones."

To emphasize his point, Aether glanced pointedly at Ningguang's exposed legs. Despite the roughness of her feet, wearing sandals would be a simple solution. "Hold on, let me give you something," he said, pulling out a leather pouch that Gunther had enchanted along with his new outfit and armor. The pouch was slightly oversized for the girl, but Aether secured it comfortably on her shoulder, letting it rest at her waist.

"What is this for?" Ningguang curiously prodded at her temporary accessory, wondering about its purpose. The quality was unlike anything she had ever touched or imagined owning. It was a dream come true. However, she knew it was only a loan, and she would have to return it eventually.

"Oh, nothing really," Aether said, holding out an enchanted pouch. "It's just a little something that can hold massive amounts of Mora. It's yours, by the way. Keep it."

Although he didn't really need it, Gunther had insisted on including it in their inventory based on Klee's drawing. Aether chuckled to himself, wondering what use he would have for it when he already had a magic sack of his own.

Ningguang's eyes widened in surprise and confusion. "Why? But-!" she exclaimed, her voice trailing off.

Aether smiled gently and suggested, "Actually, let's find some proper clothes for you first." He spotted a clothing vendor nearby and led Ningguang towards it. "Oh, and by the way, make sure to spend the Mora wisely."

As they approached the stall, Ningguang was confused as to what Aether was referring to. But as Aether pointed towards the closed zipper of the pouch, she felt a sudden sense of anxiety. As she unzipped the pouch and peered inside, she was almost taken aback by what she saw - tons of Mora! She dug her fingers deeper into the pouch, but still couldn't reach the bottom. It was like a never-ending treasure trove. The feeling in her stomach was suddenly strange, and she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the sudden influx of wealth.

She looked up to see Aether's gentle smile, which made her feel worse. "W-why? Why me? What have I done to deserve something like this?" Her voice was hoarse, and Ningguang caught her breath, which hitched harshly in her throat. She was crying. No, she was bawling like a baby! It was so embarrassing...

Aether gave a comforting pat on her shoulder and said, "Well, I owed you one, didn't I?"

Ningguang's eyebrows furrowed in confusion, "But at Mr. Zhu's inn, you already paid for my meal. I thought that was enough to repay me for yesterday's disaster."

Aether smiled gently and replied, "That was merely a treat, and this-" he interjected, tenderly pointing at her new accessory, "This is a gift. Use it wisely."

Ningguang's eyes sparkled with determination as she made her way to the clothing stall, nodding in silence to Aether's kind gesture. She was grateful for the Mora he had given her, but more than that, she was determined to make the most out of it. She would bargain and haggle until she found the most efficient clothing to impress him, without breaking the bank. After all, Aether had already done so much for her, and she wanted to show him that she was just as capable of taking care of herself.

As she looked back, she saw Aether waving goodbye with a smile on his face before disappearing into the crowd. Ningguang couldn't help but feel a warm sensation in her chest, knowing that she had made a true friend in this strange and wondrous world.

Ningguang planned to purchase new clothes, trade her goods with Mr. Wu, and reunite with Aether. The thought of seeing his warm smile once more filled her with anticipation.

Aether observed from a distance as the girl hurried towards the vendor's stall and startled him. He hoped she would be fine, but his thoughts were quickly redirected to his own concerns. He needed information about the Qixing, but he couldn't confront them just yet.

He knew the drinking places were a good place to start, but it seemed like Liyue did not invest much into alcohol. His best bet would be the port.

Aether was well aware that sailors had mouths that could put even the most gossiping girls to shame. He had a perfect spot in mind, right at the epicenter of the port, where he could ask about any additional information on the Syndicate. He knew he couldn't solely rely on Ningguang's memories, as some parts were missing and many were still hidden.

He cannot rely on a power he did not receive willingly.

Aether's senses were heightened, and he could feel his instinct kicking in once again. The encounter with the Ruin Guard had left him on edge, and he was now even more alert than before. He couldn't shake off the feeling that someone was following him. The city was a different environment, with more people to keep an eye out for and fewer advantages to exploit. This didn't feel like a proper shakedown, as any skilled mugger would have quickly identified Aether as being armed and dangerous, even more so than the average adventurer.

That meant he was dealing with an amateur, or someone so confident as to not care for stealth. However, even if it was an amateur, that wasn't necessarily a better thing. Inexperienced thieves were more prone to violence and could cause unnecessary harm to their victims.

Amateur thieves might panic and stick a knife in your side. Death was inevitable, for the assailant that was. A lone mugger couldn't even hold up against a single hilichurl.

Kaeya had warned them about the dangers of untrained fighters, who relied on unpredictable attacks and wild swings. They could be just as deadly as a professional opponent if underestimated. Aether shuddered at the thought of facing such a foe, and couldn't help but wonder if Razor's savage swings were a result of a lack of proper training until Varka intervened. A professional hand was always better than an untrained one in combat.

Aether was just too stubborn to take a chance. He ducked into an alleyway and followed it down to the next bend, ducking around the corner. The pitter-patter of feet followed, picking up the pace so as to not lose him. Aether waited until it was close until it crested the corner itself before he lashed out. His fist struck nothing, soaring much higher above his aggressor than he'd expected. The person yelped in fright but took advantage of the moment to lunge in for the pouch on the outside of his armor. It wasn't a pouch for Mora, as it was a mere pouch filled with Starconch that he bought from Ningguang.

Aether's reflexes kicked in, enabling him to swiftly recover and catch the thief by the wrist. He dragged the thief back against the wooden structures that held the port. His reinforced leather coat protected him from the boot that was driven into his shin, but even without the armor, he doubted that a child, who was probably ten or twelve at most, could have done much damage to him. The inhuman speed that Aether possessed was what allowed him to catch the thief.

"Let go!" the thief yelled, kicking her feet and struggling to break free. "I earned it fair and square!"

Aether let out a deep sigh and lifted the small figure, holding them at a distance to avoid any sudden attacks. He brought them up to his eye level and said, "I don't think that's how stealing works. If it were, you wouldn't be so surprised."

The thief glared at him with bloodshot crimson eyes. "Why not? Just give me the Mora, and I'll be on my way. That way, we can both be happy. I don't want to have to rough you up, old man," he said, making a useless threat. Aether could only raise an eyebrow at the empty words.

He couldn't help but feel a twinge of pity for the girl. She appeared to be thin and wiry in a way that suggested she might not be entirely healthy. At least Ningguang was diligent in managing her affairs, and Granny Chu took care of her. This unfortunate girl did not seem to have such support. Aether released her wrist and took a step back, allowing her to do the same. He noticed that she continued to eye his pouch with a covetous expression. Despite her scrappy appearance, there was a certain tenaciousness about her that reminded him of someone with a similarly stubborn outlook on life.

A good trait to admire.

The little girl jumped in surprise when Aether pulled out another pouch filled with Mora and threw it at her. She was so taken aback that the pouch bounced off her small chest and fell to the ground with a clinking sound.

"Here," Aether said, handing over a pouch filled with a few thousand Mora to the girl. "Try to make it last, and keep it hidden. Some people might try to take it from you if they know you have it." Despite her small stature, Aether was confident in the girl's abilities. Her agility and quick reflexes would compensate for any lack of physical strength.

"I don't need you to tell me that," the thief spluttered, her voice hoarse with emotion. She fell to her knees and picked up the pouch, holding it tightly to her chest as if afraid the kind stranger might change his mind and demand it back. The pouch was bulging with his former Mora, and in the girl's frail hands, it only served to emphasize her thinness.

"Bullies on the street wouldn't be able to take it from me, old man. I need this too much. My family need it badly. And maybe you're not all that bad," she admitted with a murmur. Aether was surprised by the strength of her resolve, and her voice sounded familiar. He narrowed his eyes, but quickly shook his head, pushing the thought aside.

"Perhaps next time you could try a different approach, your execution was a bit off. It doesn't really scream 'thief', you know? Maybe try something more along the lines of a plunderer or a pirate. They tend to take whatever they want, whenever they want." Aether chuckled softly, not entirely sure why he was offering this advice to the child.

The child managed to look offended, puffing out her chest in a way that might have been intimidating if she were twice as tall and twice as wide. Aether couldn't help but be reminded of a certain woman who could slice a monster in half in the blink of an eye. He found the child's demeanor somewhat terrifying. "What do you mean!?" she demanded.

"A good thief wouldn't have been caught," he pointed out teasingly. However, Aether didn't want the poor kid to continue on like this, but he also knew he had no choice in the matter. He couldn't force the girl to change her ways, and he respected her decision to live the life she wanted. Aether had learned that stubbornness could be both a blessing and a curse.

"Hmph," the thief slouched her posture and pouted, and Aether couldn't help but suppress a chuckle at her adorable expression.

"What's your name, oh greatest pirate?" Aether asked, with a hint of humor in his voice. Despite his sarcasm, he wanted to make the girl feel at ease.

The girl proudly huffed and slammed her fist against her chest. "Damn right, old man! I'm the greatest pirate queen in all of Liyue!" She laughed heartily. "You'll never forget the day you were robbed by Captain Beidou!"

Aether's breath hitched in shock. "W-What did you say your name was?" he asked, his eyes widening as he tried to process the information he had just received. Did he hear that right?

It can't be...

"Be careful what you wish for, old man," the girl said with a toothy smile that Aether found strangely familiar. "The name's Beidou. Captain Beidou, pirate extraordinaire!"


As the carriage jolted, she stirred from her slumber.

"Barbara?"

Barbara's father's worried voice brought her back to reality. She opened her eyes and saw the sun high in the sky, indicating it was already late noon. The carriage was moving slowly and steadily towards the Ragnvindr manor. The knights accompanying them were stern and brave, which reminded Barbara of her sister.

"Yes, father?" Barbara asked, her voice heavy with sleep as she rubbed her eyes. "Have we arrived?" she inquired, hoping they had reached their destination. Barbara can't wait to see her sister again.

It had been months already, and since she heard about the kidnappings yesterday, Barbara only wept her regrets of not seeing her sister. Is she still my sister? Barbara thought sadly.

No, she still is. Jean still loves you.

The vehement voices in her head screamed in denial.

Father smiled morosely, as he had been doing recently. "We have arrived," he said, "the Ragnvindr scions and Lord Crepus himself are out to greet us." He gestured slowly to the manor ahead, where she can see the brothers and their Lord Father awaited them.

"Is my sister with them?" Barbara's eyes lit up with anticipation, banishing any traces of sleepiness from her face.

"No, dear," Father smiled sadly, his eyes weary and thin from a sleepless night spent worrying about Jean's safety. "Your mother left hours earlier and must have already met up with her. She's safe, she's alright," he reassured her, although the soft tone he used sounded like he was trying to reassure himself as well.

"It would be impolite to inquire further, as the Ragnvindrs are gracious hosts to your sister," Father added, his tone turning grim. "Let us exchange pleasantries with them first, and then we can look for your mother and sister."

Barbara felt her eyes fill with tears, but her mother's harsh tone quickly stifled them

We are Gunnhildrs. We do not break, we do not bend, we do not suffer. We serve, and serve proudly. For Mondstadt, as always. Gunnhildrs never cry.

"Yes, Father," Barbara said, her voice trembling as she fought back tears. "I will do my best to honor our family." The words left a bitter taste in her mouth, a constant reminder of how those same words had taken her sister Jean away from her.

Her loving father, as understanding as always, placed a warm hand on hers. "I hate this too," he said, offering a soft smile to comfort her as tears welled in her eyes. "But for the sake of our House, we must stand strong. Your mother would be proud."

"When did that woman ever feel proud of her?" Barbara thought to herself, but quickly withheld a scowl. She knew it was improper and impolite to speak ill of others, especially of her own mother.

"Will it make Jean proud?"

There was no hesitation in her father's response. "Your sister is always proud of you, my dearest Barbara," he said with a wide and sincere smile. "Of that, there is no doubt."

Barbara nodded, her heart filled with love for her sister. She didn't want to waste this moment, as she had prayed for months on end for her mother and father to love each other again, so that she could be with Jean again and they could be sisters who love each other every day.

The carriage jolted to a sudden stop as they arrived at the front of the manor where Lord Crepus and his sons were waiting.

Lord Crepus was imperious as ever, but Barbara noticed a new sense of ease in the way he stood. Gone was the stiffness that she had always associated with him, replaced instead with a relaxed confidence that seemed to radiate from him.

Diluc's smile was wide and genuine, but Barbara couldn't help but notice the tension in his shoulders and the way he kept glancing behind him. She wondered if it was because of her sister and mother, but as soon as she stepped out, he gave her a reassuring smile. It was enough to put her mind at ease and know that Jean was safe.

There was also the adopted scion, Kaeya, around whom she always felt a bit shy. The bandage around his other eye made him look a bit scary, but Jean assured her that he was harmless, as harmless as a Hilichurl without a wooden club – whatever that meant. Kaeya often gave her a knowing smirk, and his eyes would glint with interest, which made Barbara feel a bit uneasy. But this time, it was soft and emphatic.

"Announcing!" The knight's voice boomed as they arrived at the manor, grabbing Barbara's attention. "The Seneschal of the Church of Barbatos and his youngest daughter, Lord Seamus and Lady Barbara."

With a graceful bow, Barbara and her father showed their respect to the Ragnvindrs. "We are honored by your generosity and kindness, Lord Crepus," she said with gratitude. Seamus turned to the young boys and added, "I hope your young scions will be just as kind."

Lord Crepus only playfully rolled his eyes, then turned to his sons and said, "They will be, my wife will make sure of it." There was a hint of happiness in his voice as he mentioned his wife. "I, as Lord of this humble manor, welcome you- House of Gunnhildr."

Both boys bowed as well, as Lord Crepus only gave a short bow.

With the pleasantries out of the way, Barbara was buzzing with excitement and ready to bolt to look after her sister Jean. However, she noticed her father giving Lord Crepus a strange look.

"I have heard rumors," Father said with a note of uncertainty in his voice, "that her illness has been cured, and she is now free of it."

Barbara's ears perked up at the news. Lady Genevra was alright? She had heard about the terrible illness that had afflicted the Lady of House Ragnvindr. Though she chose to ignore the tasteless rumors about how she had contracted it and what the effects were, Barbara still couldn't help but wonder. A year ago, she had asked Jean about it, only to be met with anger and confusion. Even her mother, who wasn't particularly close to Lady Genevra, was silently fuming about it.

Instead of being happy about it, Lord Crepus was against her father asking about his wife. "My wife is well, but enough about that." There was a strain in Lord Crepus' voice as he led them inside their impressive manor. "Please, worry about your wife first, as she rushed here early this morning." He then gestured to the boys, "Please lead young Barbara here over to young Jean's room."

Lord Crepus then turned his attention to the young Ragnvindr brothers, asking them to escort Barbara to her sister's room. Diluc, the older of the two, gave a curt nod and gestured for Barbara to follow him. Lord Crepus gave her a small smile and added, "She must be worried for her sister. Be a gentleman and lead her there, will you, Diluc?"

"Yes, Father," Diluc gave them a short bow before turning to Barbara and extending his hand. "It would be my honor to escort you, Lady Barbara." His smile was genuine, but his eyes conveyed his regret for the formalities they had to adhere to due to their parents' stand-off. Barbara understood and took his hand, feeling grateful for his kind offer amidst the tension in the room.

"I thank you, Lord Crepus," Barbara said as she lowered her head respectfully. "I will make sure to pass on your regards to Jean, Father. Please excuse us."

Seamus nodded, but his gaze remained fixed on Lord Crepus, and the atmosphere grew tense and awkward. Barbara could only hope that her father would not do anything to embarrass the family this time, knowing that her mother would not be pleased.

"Enjoy your stay, Lady Barbara," Lord Crepus said, eyeing her father. Seamus met his gaze.

"Of course," Barbara said before Diluc led her away, looking visibly uncomfortable.

"Captain Varka is expected to give his report on the incident that occurred days ago, and my wife and Lady Gunnhildr are waiting," Lord Crepus informed Barbara's father. He then looked at Kaeya and instructed him, "Prepare meals for our guests, Kaeya."

"Yes, Father." Kaeya quickly bowed and left.

Both she and Diluc went away as well, with her confused and Diluc worried.

"Lord Seamus…"

"Lord Crepus."

Barbara averted her gaze, her thoughts immediately drifting to Jean. She didn't want to see whatever was about to happen next, knowing it could potentially be troubling or unsettling.

"At least Jean seemed unharmed and content, right?" Barbara asked, her gaze fixed on Diluc, awaiting his response.

Diluc could only frown.

The solemn expression on his face conveyed something dreadful to Barbara. She wasn't sure which was more distressing, or if she even wanted to find out the reason behind it. Something odd or terrible, a change that will shake the foundations of her family.

Barbara prayed to Barbatos it wouldn't.


AUTHOR'S NOTE:

I decided to split the focus of this arc towards the aftermath of Aether's intervention during the prologue, and its consequences. Though, mostly it will only be either Barbara's PoV or Amber's Grandfather who will be featured in the next chapter. The actions of Aether were barely felt, and I wanted to remedy that with the PoV of Barbara of the characters in Mondstadt. Questions will be answered, like:

What are the thoughts of the parents of Diluc and Jean?

How does Varka deal with this mess and what has he done in the aftermath of that day on the cliffs?

Oh Jean, poor Jean. How is she handling this? And what would Barbara think?

Maybe add in a little bit of Diluc and Kaeya, as I want to add more development before the end of the arc.

I hope to add more of their story, and add a reason as to why Amber's Grandfather was sent to look for Aether. It feels more compelling than when he appears in Liyue with a simple reason in his mind only, as he needed a push from Varka in the first place. How did Varka push him to pursue Aether? And how desperate are they?

Another slice of the arc's attention was towards Lumine, but I have yet found any right reason to include her yet. Maybe when she saw how troubled he was in his time in Liyue? I have no clue, but I hope to find it soon.