Its been two months since I update my story and I apologize to my readers and followers about that. The past two months was rough. I was sick and then 4.0 was released. I was hoping that I post the new chapter before Fontaine, but was not fortunate. With new content release, I had to split between writing and exploring Fontaine.
I was initially worried that I have to change somethings when I saw Arlecchino showed up in the Fontaine teaser. Thankfully I didn't have to change anything at all. In case anyone is unaware, many of the names of the characters are non-canon and is probably a one-time character that won't show up again in this story. Also, the backstories of the canon character is may not be canon (I don't claim to be a prophet in case Hoyo added something by coincidence). One of the OCs in this chapter is based on a real life person. Can anyone guess who it was?
Anyway without further ado, here is the fourth chapter of Hellraising Harbinger and the continuation of Aether's time in Snezhnaya.
Hellraising Harbinger
Chapter 4: Adventure with the Fatui
Streets of Tsaritsagavan
For some reason, there was no Fatui in sight, except for Childe. This was curious as he is now in the land that they should have more power compared to outside their home.
"Hey Childe, why are there no Fatui soldiers around?" Aether asked.
"We operate outside Snezhnaya most of the time." The Harbinger replied. "Back home, we mostly work undercover, you know counterespionage and the sort."
"What about the local guards, like the Millelith or the Shogun's Army." Paimon asked.
"The Snezhnayan Guards are the local enforcers of Snezhnaya." Childe explained. "Technically they are under us, but Capitano do not use them for Fatui business, mostly because they are stationed in Snezhnaya rather than outside."
Just as he explained, Aether saw a soldier wearing a thick red fur coat. He was armed with a a rifle.
"Interesting, they seemed less armed compared to the Skirmishers I meet."
Childe shrugged.
"Don't underestimate them, they might not have our fancy weapons, but they can hold their own. But since we are outside Snezhnaya City, these guards are the only soldiers you would see."
Childe introduced the port town they were currently in. It was the largest military port that produced powerful warships that, according to him, could decimate the Crux Fleet if they decided to go to war. Apparently, Tsaritsagavan was once a peaceful port, but became militarize 500 years ago.
The same time as the Cataclysm, this can't be a coincidence.
"Tsaritsagavan used to be a humble port before the militarization." Childe explain the port history. "Eventually, it attracted a large number of merchants from all across Teyvat."
Childe then pointed to a large building with Snezhnayan architecture.
"This is the Snezhnayan Trade Association. Unlike the Inazuman version, the Fatui do not treat them harshly. In fact, Pantalone has a large investment in them."
Aether folded his arms and scoffed.
"The reason why the Inazuman International Trade Association was treated badly by the Kanjou Commission was because of the Fatui influence."
Childe sighed.
"I won't bother to deny that. I've heard of my comrades' actions in Inazuma, but I did not expect it to be that bad. Anyway, enough talk about the Fatui, you are here to visit, we'll talk about the Fatui in three days after you meet with the Tsaritsa."
Aether decided to follow that.
North Ocean Restaurant, Tsaritsagavan
There were a lot of restaurants and pubs in Tsaritsagavan. Some of them were from other nations. Not surprising considering that the port was also an entrepôt for Snezhnaya. It seems that despite the Fatui actions, there are still people from Mondstadt, Liyue and Inazuma.
I suppose the people are prudent enough to separate the Fatui from the Snezhnayan people.
"Something on your mind, comrade?" Childe asked while taking a bite of his Ukha.
The Ukha is a traditional Snezhnayan fish dish. The owner of the restaurant would have gladly shared the recipe to Aether, for a sum of Mora of course. But Childe intervene and promised to share the recipe to him free of charge. Normally that would have triggered the owner, but he relented because of who Childe is.
"Do the foreign visitors not know about what happened to their homeland?" Aether asked.
Childe just shrugged.
"News does travel here. But I'd say most, if not all, the Inazuman chose to leave after hearing what we have done to their nation." Childe explained. "Not that I would ever blame them. I'd say out of all our involvement across the nations, we really screwed up Inazuma."
Of course, both Aether and Paimon knew that it was more complicated than that. Like it or not, Ei was still responsible for creating the opportunity that allowed the Fatui to infiltrate and manipulate her and her nation's administration to enact the Vision Hunt Decree and Sakoku Decree.
"Despite that, there are still some Inazuman that wanted to stay. I think they are worried about what the Raiden Shogun would do next."
"Hey, Ei is a good Archon!" Paimon snapped. "She was just emotional after what happened 500 years ago."
Childe sighed.
"Well, I don't know much about her other than what the agents there reported. Also, aside from you, did she ever open herself up to anyone?"
"Well, there's Yae." Paimon replied. "But that only happened recently…"
Aether sighed in annoyance.
"Speaking about Archons, what can you tell me about the Tsaritsa."
"Her Royal Highness the Tsaritsa is actually a gentle soul. Too gentle, in fact, and that's why she had to harden herself. Likewise, she declared war against the whole world only because she dreams of peace." Childe replied.
"During a conversation with Zhongli, I remember seeing a heart that represented her. Love. At least, that's what she used to represent. Zhongli indicate that, indirectly."
Childe became sad.
"Yes. Your deduction is correct. Her Royal Highness once represent love. Our history mention that quiet clearly."
"What happened?" Aether and Paimon asked.
"The Cataclysm." Childe answered somberly. "None of us knew what happened, not even us Harbingers. But whatever happened, it changed her."
Aether narrowed his eyes.
"You speak as if you know what happened. But so far, only those who lived somewhere during that time have vague knowledge."
Childe expression darkened.
"That's because while the other nations are not badly affected that we are."
"What do you mean?" Paimon asked.
"There is a reason why the Cataclysm changed Her Majesty so much. It wasn't just what happened the Khaenri'ahn that affected her. After all, it is a foreign nation. The Abyss poured out and nearly consumed Snezhnaya. That is why the Fatui exist. To combat the Abyss and Celestia for the atrocity they wreck on Teyvat."
"And the Gnosis?" Aether asked.
Childe gave them a wry smile.
"That is something you might learn in three days. Finish your meal, there is still more to see in Tsaritsagavan."
Tsaritsagavan Factory District
From what Aether read from the Teyvat Travel Guide, Snezhnaya has large factories that could mass produce millions of things that ranges from weapons of war to normal everyday stuff, such as food and tools.
"The factories in Snezhnayan are state of the art second only to our rivals in Fontaine. Of course, the Fontainians that have the knack in producing them in mass quantity, so I guess that's where they lose out to us."
"So basically, Fontaine is more about quality, while Snezhnaya in more on quantity." Paimon concluded.
"That's the long and short off it." Childe replied.
"Personally, I lean on the quality side." Aether gave his opinion. "The two nations can learn something from each other."
"On that I agree." Childe nodded. The three walked pass a large factory. "Pantalone has been working with a few companies in Snezhnaya to try negotiate a trade with Fontaine."
Childe frowned.
"It hasn't been going well, according to the Regrator. Aside from the large unreasonable demands those Fontainian are demanding, they don't trust us. Haha, what a surprise, isn't it?"
Looking at their unamused face, Childe decided to move on.
"Another problem is the Fontainian inefficient use of their resources. Don't get me wrong, they know how to make tools and weapons that could surpass ours, but the waste of materials. Ugh."
"So, what's their unreasonable demand?" Aether asked.
Childe shrugged.
"No idea, but from what I know of Pantalone, it's probably something to do with how much Mora was used and how little gain he can get. It seems that the Fontaine are trying to steal our secrets."
He leaned closer and whispered to them.
"Word of advice when dealing with him: The man is very obsessed with 'equivalent exchange' to the point of obsessions. He believes that balance must be preserved. Bunch of baloney if you ask me."
"Goodness me, Ajax. Is this how you talk about your colleague?"
Childe facepalmed and sighed deeply. Standing behind him was a smiling man with black hair. He was wearing a white long fur coat that covers is entire body. His eyes were closed shut for some reason.
"Salutations, you must be the infamous Honorary Knight, Hero of Liyue and Inazuman. And his flying pixie."
Aether rolled his eyes as Paimon becomes red in anger.
"Who are you calling pixie! Ugghh I think Paimon call you the smiling idiot!"
Is that the best you can come up, my dear traveling companion.
Aether resists the urge to slap his forehead.
The man laughed heartily and introduce himself.
"My name is Pantalone, the Ninth Harbinger, also known as the Regrator. I oversee Snezhnaya economics. I also happen to be the richest amongst my fellow Harbingers, so if you find yourself in a pinch, don't hesitate to ask."
Aether chuckled and crossed his arms.
"You do realize that I am technically your enemy right?"
Another hearty laugh from the Ninth Harbinger.
"Not for long, my dear Traveler. I know what will happen in three days, something tells me that we may have a replacement for La Signora."
Paimon growled.
"That won't happen! Paimon still don't trust you and the Fatui. The Tsaritsa even less."
Pantalone smile widened and he open his eyes a little.
"It hasn't happened YET, little pixie. Aether." He used his given name. "Believe me when I say there is a large benefit in joining us. You do not have to like us. Trust me, I have been a Harbingers for decades and there still some of my fellow that I despise, but still tolerate."
"I have been the gods errand boy before, and I hate it. What makes you think I'll choose to be one?" Aether asked.
Pantalone closed his eyes and steepled his hands.
"I know that is the last thing you want, Traveler. I know you craving for answers. Answers to which Her Majesty is more than willing to provide."
"But there's a catch, and I don't intend to get leashed by the gods."
"There is always a catch. In life nothings is free. Also, no one is going to put you on a leash. If that was true, why are you allowed free reign in our lands?"
"With Childe accompanying us?" Paimon said sarcastically.
Pantalone laughed.
"Oh, that is funny, do you think WE are not aware of how close you two are? While I can trust Tartaglia loyalty to Her Majesty, we know better than to trust him to keep an eye on you."
Aether frowned, the Regrator has a point. It is a well-known fact that Childe is a friend of his and sometimes accompany him in his journey.
"So if you knew, why haven't any of your comrades took advantage of it?"
Pantalone chuckled.
"The Tsaritsa herself has a… special interest in you, Traveler." Pantalone replied. This made Paimon and Aether look at Childe, to which he shook his head. "Oh, this was kept from Child, so the young warhound, he doesn't know anything."
Just how much more are these Harbingers keeping from me! First Signora now this!
Aether saw that Childe's expression was becoming stormy.
"Her Majesty believe that despite being on the opposite side, you are a valued piece in her plans."
Aether turned and glared at the Regrator.
"I am not anyone's pawn! Least of all a god's little piece!"
Pantalone opened his eyes again, still keeping his smile.
"Oh Traveler, you are so ignorant, just like our youngest Harbinger." The three glared at him. He just continued. "In the world we are living in we are all pawns of the divine, be it from Celestia or the Archons."
He started to pace back and forth.
"Whether we like it or not, that is how this world works. Us mortals are the divine's plaything. Think about it, why are some us born rich and some of us born poor? Why are some of us blessed with Visions, why some aren't?"
Childe felt a chill as his senior gave him a sideway look when he mentions Vision.
"I was born in poverty and to this day, the divines have saw me unfit to bear a Vision, despite my ambition. To this day, I question and despise the gods for such injustice." Realizing that Childe was looking at him, he quickly added. "But I still serve Her Majesty despite all of it, I suppose being blessed with a Delusion helps."
"Hopefully it doesn't kill you." Aether muttered.
"The ones we were given are different from those mass-produced Delusions the Watasmumi Army possessed. I cannot tell you much for obvious reasons, but I can tell you this, we use a vastly different material to produce those mass-produced Delusions."
"Yes, you used those Crystal Marrows, I suspect that is what drained Teppei and the poor soldiers." Aether said. He was slightly sad when he mentioned his deceased friend. "I've also corroborated the information with Diluc, and there is one constant: Delusions are made using the power of the divines whether be it directly or indirectly."
"Well deduced, Traveler." Pantalone gave Aether a small clap. "I am beginning to like you. I am really feeling good about what will happen in three days."
He the took out his pocket watch and looked at it before stashing it back.
"I am sorry, I have to take my leave, I have something to discuss with the factory owner of this place. We will meet again in three days, Farewell."
He gave them a small bow before walking away.
An hour later
Outside of Tsaritsagavan
After Pantalone left, Childe had decided its time to leave Tsaritsagavan. The two outsiders notice that their Harbinger friend was frowning.
"Are you okay, Childe? You seemed mad after our encounter with Pantalone." Aether asked, concerned.
Childe grunted.
"Comrade, I am aware that I am the youngest of the Eleven Harbingers. I know that despite my rank, I am considered an eccentric compared to my scheming comrades. But to know that despite my position I am still being kept in the dark about many things important. And that infuriates me. I am still absolutely loyal to the Tsaritsa, if push comes to shove, I am willing to turn on you for her sake. No offence, comrade."
"I know." Aether stated. He is aware if his loyalty to the Cryo Archon.
"Just how much are they keeping from me?"
Not knowing it was a rhetorical question, Paimon answered. "Well maybe they knew what happened to Scaramouche?"
"Paimon!" Aether chastised.
Childe grunt in disgust.
"It's alright, Traveler. Now that I think about, it probably made sense. Il Dottore would never let a test subject go rogue like that."
"But then, where did he go with the Gnosis?" Paimon worriedly asked.
"For now, we focus on your tour in Snezhnaya. I will worry about the Harbingers and their schemes later."
As the three walked out of the port, Aether realize just how cold Snezhnaya is. When he was in the port, he only felt a slight chill mostly because there are a lot of people there. The cold in Snezhnaya is comparable to Dragonspine. The main difference was that Snezhnaya is bigger and more populated than Dragonspine. It was so cold that Paimon have to get inside Aether's coat, she didn't do that while they were in Dragonspine.
"Pppppaimon is abbbout ttto become ice!" She chattered.
"I told you we need to get you something at Tsaritsagavan." Aether chastised. "But you said you didn't need it."
"You also didn't want to disappear too, so that is your own fault." Childe added.
Paimon grumbled while tucking herself inside of Aether's coat.
According to Childe, the only way not to freeze to death outside was to continue moving. But Aether sometimes wonder how Paimon can do that as she literally floats. To this day, he still didn't know how tiring it is for his companion to do that as she gives unreliable accounts on how tiring or tiring it is for her.
The next part of their tour around Snezhnaya is Morepesok, Childe's hometown. It was a short distance from Tsaritsagavan.
"Morepesok is one of the main fishing villages in Snezhnaya. Most of our catches are taken to Tsaritsagavan to be exported around Teyvat." Childe explained.
"Since it's the main fishing village, that must be HQ for the Snezhnayan Fishing Association." Aether said the obvious.
"Yes, Roman is a well-known fisherman that is really, REALLY good at fishing. Childe shuddered. "Too good if you ask me."
"Why, are you jealous?" Paimon pickled.
"No, its jus… his catches are really out of this world." Childe replied, still shuddering. "They look like something that Dottore created in his secret labs."
Childe fished something from inside his coat, he took out a picture and show it to the two. They cringed at the picture.
"What is that?!" Paimon pointed at the picture.
"It's called a Blobfish. And no, its not native in Snezhnaya." The two outsiders sighed in relief. "According to Roman, he caught it somewhere from the Southern Sea. But let me tell you: this is mild compared to some of his collections."
"It looks like a fish with a face of a human." Aether described while shuddering. "Could this and any of his collection was due to pollution of the Snezhnayan factories?"
"No, Pulcinella has implemented harsh laws against such oversight. Any factory guilty of such thing will be swiftly dismantled." Childe replied.
Morepesok Village
After a short trek, the three arrived at Morepesok Village. Unlike the large and crowded Tsaritsagavan it was less populated.
"Well, I'm home." Childe said with a hint of nostalgia.
Aether envies the Harbinger for such feeling. It has been years since he has such a feeling, it got worse after he lost his sister. Despite being given a home, the Teapot does very little to soothe his homesickness.
"It seems rather nice, if not a bit quiet." Paimon commented. She turned to Childe with an unamused look. "How did someone like you come from such a peaceful place?"
"Come on Pai, that's rude." Aether said. "So Childe, care for an introduction of your home?"
Childe smiled.
"Morepespok is a small, peaceful fishing village. It's the same type as Qingce Village, a retirement spot for the elderly. But unlike them, we are still more active. From morning, the men of the village set out to the seas and are rare breed of warriors."
Aether raised his eyebrow.
"My grandfather may be old, but trust me, he was quite active when I last saw him." Childe smile became sad as he sighed. "I wish I didn't have to miss his funeral, but I was busy at work. Thank the Tsaritsa my family understand."
"I am sorry." Aether said.
"It's alright it was long time ago. Before I met you."
"What about the rest of your family?" Paimon asked.
"My parents are still around, but we haven't seen my two older brothers for quite some time. They have written to me, but I am not as close to them as I was with my three younger siblings." Childe replied.
"Are your older siblings working with the Fatui?" Aether asked.
Childe shook his head.
"Peter, my oldest brother is currently working as a lawyer in Snezhnaya City. From what I know, he's good at his job. As for Vladimir, he is working as a teacher in the House of Hearth, and before you ask, no he has ABSOLUTELY no ties with the Fatui. Most of the staff at the Hearth are aware but don't really get involve in our business. Arlecchino sees to it."
"You didn't warn him about what your co-worker is like?" Aether asks in shock.
"He knows, but he felt that the lives of the orphans are more worth than his. I warned the Knave about keeping my brother out of danger and in her affair, and so far she complied to it."
"Its still risky, if what you said about her is true…" Paimon trailed off.
Childe sighed.
"Well, at least he knows the danger working this close to Arlecchino. From what I heard, she seems to be ignoring him. Even after knowing who his brother is."
Aether grunted.
"Vladimir is not blind that working with the Fatui is risky. Hell, my two older siblings were livid when they learn that I became the Harbinger. They tried to convince me to back out, but that's impossible. It was thanks to my father that they stopped trying."
"You have a good family." Aether smiled sadly. "I wish Lumine was a better sibling like yours."
Childe put a hand on Aether's shoulder.
"Cheer up, comrade." He consoled. "Once you get your answer then maybe we can try changing her mind."
"We?" Paimon deadpanned.
"Of course, I wanted to see how I fare against the Princess." The Harbinger notice the two looks. "Oh don't give me that, you do realize our information network is far and wide."
Few minutes later…
Knock Knock
"Who is it?" A man called out as someone was knocking at his door.
"It's me, father."
Opening the door, Telamon see his son with a young blond boy and a pixie?
"Ajax! You're back!" He gave his son a big hug.
"Да father. I brought my friend here. This is Aether." Childe introduced.
Aether shook hands with the patriarch.
"So you are the infamous Traveler and his pixie."
"Hey! Who are calling pixie!" Paimon protested.
Telamon laughed.
He brought his son and his guest to the living room. Teucer, Tonia, and Anthon. The three were playing something together.
"Big brothers!" Teucer cried when he saw his brother and his friends. This got the other two of his siblings to stand up and get close to Childe and his friends.
"It's been a while, Teucer." Aether said with a smile.
The boy hugged Aether and his brother. For a few hours, Aether recount on some of his adventure to the three young children and Childe throw in some of his 'business exploits' as a 'salesman'. After a while, Tonia told her two young siblings that their father wanted to talk with Childe and Aether alone.
When they are alone, Telamon expression became serious.
"So… from what I heard, you have been a… thorn to the Fatui."
Neither Aether nor Paimon said anything. Childe just smile awkwardly while rubbing the back to his head.
"I hope you're not here to bring trouble to our nation." Telamon warned.
"I am here on Your Majesty invitation." Aether said while taking out the letter he was given.
Telamon eyes widened as he recognized the remains of the seal on the letter.
"Besides, my grievance is against the Fatui, not the people of Snezhnaya as a whole. I don't know what you were told, but they have a bad reputation in the rest of the nations. At least the ones I have visited."
Telamon sighed as he looked down.
"I am not blind to that. While news doesn't travel here, I always know there's danger when the Fatui are involved. Which is why I hesitate when Pulcinella took in Ajax for 'punishment'."
The father then looked at his son.
"I did not expect him to become one of Her Majesty Harbingers."
"Oh come on father, after all this time, you still didn't believe me to rise up the Fatui ranks."
Telamon just rolled his eyes and head. He decided to change the subject.
"What did the Tsaritsa want from you?"
"She gave me an offer. Something only an Archon would know." Aether replied.
"I know you were meeting the Archons across Teyvat. But the reasons were vague."
Aether sighed.
"That's not something I want to talk about, sir." Aether said. "Its too complicated. My travel objective is starting to change too much for my taste. To be honest I feel like your world is screwing with me."
"What do you mean?" Childe and his father asked.
"I don't want to talk about it." Aether said hotly. Noticing their shocked expression, he calmed down. "Sorry. Listen Mr. Telamon, the only thing you need to know is that the Tsaritsa is willing to share information she knows I am craving for. And your son is accompanying me for the time being for three days. In three days, I will be meeting with the Tsaritsa. I don't know what will happen after that."
"Traveler! You sound like you will be going to your death!" Paimon exclaimed. Childe and Telamon nodded slowly.
"Its not like that Pai." Aether frowned. "It's just that after all these years I am finally got some answers rather than none. Barbatos, Morax, Raiden. None of the Archons I've met so far have my answers."
Aether clenched a fist.
"One of them can't say because of contract."
Paimon put a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"I feel like I am getting close to the end of my journey."
"That remains to be seen, Traveler." Childe said. "I don't know what you will do after learning what you need to know from Her Majesty, but I personally doubt it will end your adventures."
"I sincerely hope I don't have to solve your nation problems before meeting the Tsaritsa. No offence."
"None taken?" Telamon said, unassured. "I would feel ashamed if I need an outsider to help solve my nations problem. Who wouldn't?"
Across Teyvat, a few sneezes occurred.
"You have no idea, sir."
"You know, now that Paimon heard this, Paimon agrees with you Mr. Telamon."
Telamon looked at the two and then realize the implication. He groaned.
"What the hell happen across Teyvat?"
Early Evening…
Edge of Morepesok
"So, how's my family?" Childe asked.
"They're great. A shame we couldn't see your two older siblings." Aether responded.
"Mr. Telamon seems to be nice guy." Paimon added. She then turned to Childe with an unamused look. "How did someone like him raise a guy like you?"
"Well, let's just say I got lost for three days when I was fourteen."
"What!" The two outsiders cried.
The Eleventh Harbinger then told them the story on how he disappeared to the Abyss in the forest for three days. But to the then fourteen-year-old, it felt like three months has passed.
"Wait, you were in the Abyss?!" Aether cried.
"I didn't see your sister, if that's what you wanted to ask. As far as I know, I only meet Skirk."
"Skirk?" Paimon parroted.
"She's a formidable warrior. And no, she does not look like you. Trust me, it may have been a long time, but I would know a resemblance when I see it."
"Even so, the Abyss. I have so many questions."
"Well, we have time. What would you like to know?"
"What is it like in there?" Paimon asked.
"Otherworldly. It's kinda hard to explain."
"If a boy can go in there without any consequences. That means… I could do that as well." Aether then asked. "Where is that hole?"
Childe frowned deeply.
"I don't know. Believed me, I have searched throughout that forest and couldn't find that hole again. I really wanted to face Skirk again."
"Figures, but based on what you told me. Your time there had changed you for the worse."
Childed hummed.
"Did it? I supposed I changed from a naïve boy to a warrior in a span of three days, but that's hardly a bad change."
"Your father mentioned that you suddenly became a troublemaker when you were young." Aether deduced. "It must have happened after you reappeared from the Abyss."
Childe merely shrugged.
"I suppose I was. But I did become better over time. After raising the ranks of the Fatui, I channeled my urge for conflict to my lust for battle."
"This Skirk, could she be part of the Abyss Order?" Aether asked rhetorically.
"I suspect not. From the dossiers I've read about the Order, if Skirk was really part of them, she would not have let me go so easily. But when I asked to go home, she didn't stop me. She wasn't even reluctant. If she really was part of the Abyss Order, she would have kept me and use me as the weapon of the Order."
"So the Fatui know that you went to the Abyss once?" Paimon asked.
"Of course, but surprisingly, they didn't ask to much about my experience. I suppose that's because Pierro had Scaramouche led an expedition there and got whatever they wanted to know about."
"What."
Paimon and Childe notice a chill around the Traveler.
"You're telling me, the Fatui have information about the Abyss?"
"Err, well I think so." Childe stammered out. "Whatever Scaramouche found there was something privy to Her Majesty and the Jester. Its not shared to the rest of us."
"Great." Aether threw his hands up.
Night
Rooster Hotel
After a short stroll in the outskirts of Morepesok, the three decided to return back to Tsaritsagavan. Aside from a short skirmish against a tribe of Hilichurls, there was very little danger he faced. According to Childe, the Snezhnayan Guards are efficient in taking down local banditry and thugs. Criminal organization like the Treasure Hoarders struggle to thrive here in a place where the local guards are backed by the elite Fatui.
I'd say the Hoarders have to adapt underground as any base of operations that we find will be razed to the ground.
He'd like to think they are better than the local enforcement he met so far, but its too early to determine yet.
"Traveler" Paimon whispered.
Aether turned to her, she looked troubled.
"Is something wrong?"
"Honestly Aether, all of this is wrong."
Aether sighed, knowing where this is going.
"Look I understand that you are desperate for answers, but Paimon thinks that-"
"Paimon that's enough!" Aether hissed, not wanting to raise his voice to disturb the guests. "We've been through this, and I know the risk."
"Aether."
"I want answers Paimon, after all the suffering I went through, I just want some answers."
Suddenly, Childe yawn as he leaned up from his bed.
"Its kinda noisy around here." He complained.
"Sorry, but my flying companion was against this whole arrangement."
"She made that clear, when we were on the ship. But why did you say something now of all time?"
"Paimon didn't want to interrupt the two of you enjoying your time in Snezhnaya. Especially when we were at your family." Paimon replied. "Look Traveler, Paimon can't begin to comprehend how difficult it is to be separated from your sister, but what you are resorting to is too much."
Childe look between the two wondering what to say until he asked a question.
"Pardon me for asking, but why are you here if you are so against this, Paimon?" Childe asked.
"That's because Paimon refuse to leave Aether's side!" Paimon retorted. "Paimon don't always agree with what he has done, especially lately, but Paimon is still the Traveler's best companion."
"That also sucks the food and Mora from me from time to time." Aether muttered, which thankfully she didn't hear.
"What do you mean lately?" Childe asked curiously. "From your tone, it seems that our good friend has made some questionable choices even before the Tsaritsa's invitation."
Aether sighed with annoyance.
"As you might have known, I have been avoiding Liyue for a year. But aside from that, I've been skeptical of helping the people. Whether be it helping some drunken fool finding his keys, cleaning up a tower that is a hotspot for Hilichurls to capture and help 'train' some idiot marksman that can't even take a shot! The list goes on and on. What is the Adventurer's Guild for? We are hardly adventuring most of the time, but helping people doing simple task that a child could do."
"I mean, can children kill Hilichurls?" Childe snarked. "I can't blame you for being disillusioned, but isn't this your fault in the end? I hate to say this, but you were the one who made the choice joining the Adventurer's Guild."
"I joined them to survive in this world, Tartaglia." Aether snapped. "I can't just go on the streets to beg for Mora! The only other option was to be a mercenary, but from what I've heard they only thrived in Sumeru. None of the other nations employ mercenaries as much as the Sumerians."
Childe frowned. The Traveler was right, in order to survive in this world, he needs a stable source of income. And since he is moving across nations, the Adventurer's Guild was his only option then.
"Paimon understand that Traveler, but that's not the only problem. Did you ever notice how cold you've become? You were never the kind of person to snap, but Paimon have to stop you at one point when you snapped at Timmie. While Paimon understand that he was being annoying, especially if he is feeding pigeons on the ONLY ENTRANCE TO MONDSTADT, but you had the look that you want to strangle the poor boy."
"By Celestia, Traveler, you were about to kill a child?" Childe asked, horrified.
"In my defense, like my flying companion said, the pigeons were on the bridge entrance to Mondstadt. How will people go in and out if you keep nagging them that you are scaring away the pigeons. I am honestly surprise that people still want to come to Mondstadt with that kid on your way."
"Hmph, I guess you have a point." Childe conceded.
"But that's only one of them. You had the worse reaction against Ella Musk." Paimon continued.
Aether growled.
"Don't. Even. Get me started on that weird girl! I am not one to judge a person's hobby or field of study. But by Celestia, why does she need to some random person to help do her research? Do you have any idea how hard it is to approach a Hilichurl camp without startling them?"
"That just means you're bad at stealth." Childe said. When he turned his glare at him, Childe added. "Not that I could say much, considering how bad I'm at stealth."
"This is more than stealth! Why is she can't she just hire some stealthy adventurer to help do her job instead of asking someone that just happens to PASS BY!"
Paimon and Childe were silent.
"Out of all the help I have to give, Ella is the one I hate the most. I exterminate Hilichurls not study about their language and culture. Maybe I should tell Katheryne to add 'Hilichurl Slayer' as my title just to dissuade her."
"That might work. Knowing the Musk, the last person they'll enlist help with is someone called 'Hilichurl Slayer'." Childe agreed. Paimon also nodded. "Speaking about them, they are a strange bunch of researchers. I've heard of many strange and questionable field of research, but Hilichurlian Linguistics?"
"Ironically, Dr. Edith, the normal one, is probably the strange one in her family, seeing as her research has nothing to do with Hilichurls." Aether said. He then started to get out of his bed.
"Where are you going?" Childe asked.
Aether sighed in exasperation.
"I need some fresh air." Aether replied as he got up.
Childe stood up and put a hand on his shoulder.
"The snow in Sneznhnaya is bad during the night." Childe warned. "It can get really worse and unpredictable. A blizzard can happen."
"I'll walk around Tsaritsagavan. I hardly have the energy to travel Snezhnaya." Aether said. "I just need to cool my head."
He looked at Paimon. The flying companion became guilty.
Aether then walked out of his hotel room.
Streets of Tsaritsagavan
Nights in Snezhnaya was quiet, just like the rest of Teyvat. However, some shops would still operate in this hour. But the streets of Tsaritsagavan have no street vendors.
Childe was right, the cold would make it unbearable even for the Snezhnayan to walk around without freezing.
Aether sighed again while rubbing his head in frustration.
He knew his companion was against this. After all, he was walking into the enemy territory with no back up. Childe was his friend, but they knew he was loyal to the Tsaritsa and the thought of betraying her would never cross the Harbinger's mind. But as they have argued ad discussed, he had no choice. He could obviously turn down the request, but that would shut out the only door to the information he so covets.
Dammit Pai, why did you have to argue now. I don't want to play the hero AGAIN and not get any answers on Lumine and Khaenri'ah.
As he walking through the quiet and cold streets of the port town, his mind keeps repeating back to the arguments between the two otherworldly travelers. He had put his foot down a few days ago and yet she still voiced her reservation in all of this.
He is very tempted to kick his companion out.
Suddenly he hears a song. It brought chills to Aether's spine. It sounded like a funeral song. As Aether looked around, he swore he saw something that looked like ash falling around him. This would normally indicate fire, but he felt no heat and only see ashes.
"My, my, what do we have here, a lost golden lamb wandering about in the cold land of everwinter without mercy."
Aether starts to panic. Whoever the voice was, he felt raw primal fear.
Not since the Raiden Shogun, could anyone would put that fear in me.
Calling out the Festering Desire, his trusty sword, and look around him in fear.
"It was said that when the golden ram rescued the prince, it was sacrificed by the prince it rescued and was scattered to the heavens. This was how the constellation Aries came to be."
Based on the femininity of the voice, it was probably a young girl. It sounded innocent like a dove, but the Traveler can sense danger, like a beautiful serpent coiling itself around him while mesmerizing him with its beauty.
Then, he felt someone blowing into his ear. Panicking, he turned around while also swinging his sword. He sliced nothing but thin air.
Aether them hear giggling.
"So much passion, so much fear. Poor little lamb, as it felt powerless when his rescuee raising his knife to sacrifice it as it was bound on the altar."
Aether felt someone touching his ponytail on his back. He wanted to swing, but he felt rooted in place.
"You have such a cute face and a beautiful long golden hair. Just like the golden lamb" The voice said. She was stroking his long ponytail. He looked behind and see a beautiful girl with something partially covering her eyes, she had an angelic looking headpiece. Her eyes were closed and she was smiling. She looked like an innocent damsel, but Aether can tell that the girl in front of her is not some helpless damsel.
"Its good to finally see you, dear Traveler."
I know for sure some would hate me for writing such things about some of the NPCs, but I argued that they deserve the hate or contempt at the very least. Starting with Timmie, I understand that he lost his father and was only feeding the pigeons just to ease his loneliness, but did he have to do it on the MAIN ENTRANCE OF MONDSTADT! Of course, the pigeons will fly off if someone passes the bridge for Christ sake! I never deliberately kill the pigeons of the ducks in his commission, but I really don't like that brat.
Then there's Ella Musk. The thing about both hers and Timmie commissions is that they are not posted to the Adventures Guild. Don't know how 'commissions' like these are called commissions. Anyways, Ella Musk was a weird (in my opinion) NPC that is studying the Hilichurl language. I dislike her commissions because it involves being stealthy. To be honest I have harder time sneaking in her commissions than "A Gentleman Strikes in Brought Daylight" commissions. The worse part is that if we wake the Hilichurls, she would cry for help and then berate us for startling them! We saved your ass and this is how you repay us! Also according to the Wiki, Ella is not as good in Hilichurlian as she claims to be. I will write something about about Ella and her family in the future chapter of the story, this will be a character development on the Musk family. Spoiler alert, she will be in the Liyue.
As I have mentioned before, some of the characters and their stories are non-canon. We know next to nothing about Childe and his family, except that he has a father, three younger siblings, and an ambiguous number of older siblings. Childe's father name was based on the Greek story that is where Childe/Ajax and Teucer got their name from, Telamon. About Vladimir, Childe's older brother, working at the Hearth, well I pretty sure Arlecchino is not the only one working there alone without any help. Especially with a large number of orphans there, there is no way she did all the cooking, caring, cleaning and training alone. At least that's what I think. Who knows maybe once 4.1 comes out, we find out Arlecchino is some superwoman that singlehandedly did all of it on her own!
Now the Traveler had encounter one of the most dangerous Harbinger amongst the Eleven Fatui Harbingers. Will he survive the encounter? Stay tune and find out in the next chapter!