Scared.
You were scared to death when you woke up in grass. You do not sleep in grass. Why were you in grass? You had no fucking clue.
Pushing aside the grass, you looked around. The sun was high in the sky but thankfully blocked by a huge tree. The wind was gently rustling through the leaves, some falling down from the branches and reaching towards you.
´Where am I?´
A small buzzing sound came closer. You had fully expected it to be a bee, not a shimmering flying diamond thing-?! Wait. Is that a crystal fly? You held out your hand towards the buzzing crystal fly. It felt cold. Not freezing but it was a weird feeling. The buzzing didn't stop either, it became louder as it landed in the palm of your hand.
You couldn't help but smile at your own thoughts. 'Gee, I really need to touch grass.' Your other hand reminded you that you were actually closer to your goal than you made it out to be. After all you were still sitting beneath the tree in the grass. 'I meant real grass. C´mon thoughts.'
Dreaming about your video game, Genshin Impact, really took things to another level. After bringing the crystal fly closer to you, you could see that it's really bland. Not to be mean, but it's a crystal with wings, no eyes, no face, no smile. Yet you could feel the affection beaming off the small thing.
You decided to let the crystal fly ascend to the sky once more by lifting your hand. Together with the others it decided to fly around the tree again.
This time you took in the environment for real.
A river stretched in front of you. You could see a cliff from the distance and whilst playing the game for hours, being right here you couldn't name the area a far.
You felt content. You could describe this scene with so many words, yet serene struck out the most. The peaceful sounds of water moving, a soft breeze and the perfect temperature.
'I should dream more about Genshin.'
You stood up from your spot at the tree. You brushed off the dirt from your bum and then looked over to your left. You saw the Barbatos statue. It was shining even if it was facing its back towards you from this perspective.
It stood tall. Everything was so much bigger in the moment than when you were behind the screen. I mean, you could see that the statue was bigger than the characters but now in your eyes it was almost towering over you.
You instinctively put out your hand to the statue. That's what the traveler does to get powers right? Yet, nothing happened. You laughed to yourself. 'Lame, not giving myself powers.' You took your hand off the statue and took a step back. You expected more, a feeling or any power but you stood and felt the same peace as under the tree.
Could you teleport? The question had entered your mind but you didn't have any buttons to open a map, nor did you have an actual map. You didn't have anything on you. It was to be expected but still.
The breeze embracing you made you forget that this all was a dream. 'Maybe I should head out to Mondstadt? It's the closest place with humans. Dawn winery and Springvale would be too far.' It was hard to find your way of navigation. You knew roughly which way Mondstadt was located in.
Before you knew it you were strolling around. The crystal flies followed you for a hot minute but when you went too far from the tree they flew back to their original place. Maybe you should go to someone you knew first? Walking your way into Mondstadt might seem suspicious. You look weird in your modern clothes compared to everyone else. Jean would help you out, so would all of the knights. It's their protocol, right? Something kept you feeling uneasy though.
The wind gave you a push in the back and before realising you were walking on a path. It was much easier to walk on compared to the dirt and grass fields.
You kept looking around. Hillicurls seemed to be away from your sight and only a few slimes appeared next to the path, all minding their own business. The trees above you cast a nice shadow keeping you cool and away from the sun glaring down at you. It seemed to be noon, as the sun stood right above you.
Once you saw the bridge in front of Mondstadt in your vision you couldn't help but increase your speed. You saw the bunch of birds in front of the small boy you knew to be Timmy. He seemed much more, real. His face lit up when the birds would hop closer to him.
With a deep breath and a mantra in your head you kept going up the bridge. 'Don't fly away. Don't fly away-' Timmy took a glance at you. You smiled, trying to keep your movements as slow as possible to not disturb the 10 or so birds in front of the small guy. Timmy only opened his mouth, and stood up a bit straighter.
'Perhaps I'm the first to not make his birds fly away?'
You continued down the bridge, the birds not even caring when you walked past them. The kid at the dandelion didn't seem to be at the gates, just the usual 2 guards. No matter how many times you walked past them you could never remember their names.
Walking up to them you began your plead.
"Can you maybe send me to Jean? I'm not from around here and I want to tell her some things before I-"
Both of the guards looked at each other, brows raised. They seemed to be looking you down thoroughly. The guard in front of you hovered his hand over the sword that was strapped to his waist. You took a step back out of instinct. This was exactly what you hoped to evade by asking them straight forward.
"You mean, Acting Grand Master Jean?"
You nodded weakly and shot your friendliest smile at them. The one you didn't address head-on yelled over the other knight walking around at the flower shop.
"Where are you from?"
You looked at the guards eying you down. The one in front of you still ghosted his hand above his weapon while he questioned you. 'So much for treating travellers right.' Three guys, all with weapons seemed to be highly alert and suspicious of you. One wrong move or one wrong answer and you'd be dead meat.
Slowly the thought began to creep into your mind. 'This doesn't seem like a dream anymore. I don't even have a backup plan and now these guys are ganging up on me? Not cool.'
It took you a moment before you could utter out a response. It was hard to tell them you came from another world where they are mere pixels so you told them you're a traveller passing by. Not the best but you doubt Lumine or Aether took a different approach and they survived too. Worst case you'd tell them you knew one of the twins, but that might only make the situation worse since you didn't know which twin was with the abyss and who wasn't.
It was silent for a while until the two further away from you whispered to each other. Soon after, the one that was called over left, running into the city. You saw how alert the two guards were so you told them you had no weapons on you. It didn't seem to make them more at ease.
You saw some other people coming up to look at the commotion, which was you. None of the playable characters you love had appeared yet which made you slightly upset. Surely they would hear you out better than the two guards basically taunting you.
It took a few minutes of suspense and you debating to leave before the other guard returned with Kaeya right behind.
"Well, well. This surely looks more entertaining than the usual."
Kaeya clapped his hands together and slowly made his way to you, still keeping his distance. Just like the other two he seemed to be eying you down. He looked amazing, just like in the game. His sword, Cool Steel, was the sword you had equipped on him since the beginning. It wasn't the best but it looked cool on him. You might also be guilty for replacing him with new characters.
"Thank god." You stutter out, relieved but also slightly overwhelmed. Kaeya was right in front of you and so close too! "I don't really know how I am here but basically I'm not from around Mondstadt. I was hoping to talk to Jean before I would start a commotion."
"You might have failed on the last part but you certainly seem interesting enough to get Jean." You sighed. At least Kaeya didn't disappoint you. At that same moment Kaeya gestured you to enter Mondstadt. The two guards walked back to one side each and looked carefully at you.
A soft breeze caressed your body when you stepped into the city. You couldn't help but be excited. Everything was so real. You heard the blacksmith clanging his hammer onto the metal, Flora making small talk with a customer about flowers, you could even smell some freshly made food.
"You certainly don't seem to be from around here." Kaeya walked next to you, following your slow pace whilst you were looking at every hook and cranny. You looked at him, for a second shocked at his intense stare, and then nodded. Your cheeks were slightly flushed.
"I saw a lot about Mondstadt from afar. I never knew I could have the opportunity to see it like this." Your smile fell a bit thinking about the weird situation. You had somehow ended up in Tevyat, without any tools or knowledge of how you arrived, and now you were debating how real it was. It felt real but you couldn't grasp your head around the thought of it.
The people on the streets looked weirdly at you. You looked weird compared to them, your modern clothes striking out even more than the difference between vision holders and others. The walk to the headquarters was longer than you expected. Halfway there you tried to talk to Kaeya to break the silence. 'I thought that you would be in the tavern by this time.' You joked.
Kaeya laughed shortly. "It's certainly true that I'd rather spend my time there." His voice was warm and he made you fall in love with Genshin all over again.
"I don't doubt that you will give me some sort of entertainment. It's unusual to see someone like you around here." You nodded, understandingly. Maybe Mondstadt hadn't even seen the traveller?
"I thought Mondstadt would get more visitors…?"
"We do recently get them, but they don't stick out as much." Kaeya half-heartedly said. You could sense him jokingly poking fun at your clothes. As much as you wanted to comment on his weird fur scarf, you kept it to yourself.
Kaeya held the door open for you. He had knocked on the door after you said that walking in probably wouldn't be the best thing to do.
Jean sat behind her desk, papers scattered all over it. Lisa was in the room as well, her eyes immediately fixed onto you.
"What's this, Kaeya?" she chuckled as she stood up from her seat and looked at you. Jean seemed to have snapped out of her documents when Lisa said that and then too her eyes were fixed upon you.
"It seems like you can finally talk to the Acting Grand Master." Kaeya put his hand on the small of your back, slightly pushing you into the room more. You heard him close the door and then release you from his hold.
It took a moment of you looking around and gathering your thoughts. Honesty is the best option you decided. You were as much in the dark as them. Maybe they could help you or fill you in on what's been happening? At the same time you were talking to, what you knew to be, pixels with very high status and strength. Better not get on their bad side.
"I wanted to talk to you before starting a commotion. I don't actually know how I ended up here, I just woke up and hour or so ago under the big tree with the Barbatos statue."
"Windrise, you mean?" Lisa asked with a smile, looking over at Jean. You nodded.
"I don't think I should be in Tevyat." You think out loud, 'I don't think I'm from this world. I know it sounds insane but I really don't know how else to say it." Jean stood up and looked at Kaeya shortly before looking back at you.
"Would you mind telling us your name?" In the chaos you had forgotten that these people didn't know you, even if you knew them.
"It's (y/n)."
A cold tension suddenly hung in the air. Jean's eyes never left your face. Lisa instead seemed just slightly confused and gazed carefully between the two others.
"Kaeya, would you mind bringing (y/n) to the confinement room for a second?" You furrow your eyebrows and look at Kaeya who moved to slightly shield you away from Jean.
"They knew my name when I have never met or introduced myself. They also amused me with some facts about myself, don't you think you are taking too drastic measures Acting Grand Master?"
"You don't think that they are really divine, right?" Jean said sternly back at Kaeya.
"Perhaps we can just ask them to tell us a little bit more to confirm?" Lisa added. She looked at you rather than Jean. The only thing you could do is just stand there and sit it out, feeling certain no one would hurt you.
Through the open window a harsher breeze moved a few papers on Jean's desk. All eyes seemed to be back on you. Before you knew it chaos had erupted.
"An imposter wouldn't just waltz into Mondstadt." Kaeya's voice lost its playfulness and the tone is replaced by something more serious.
"You might be thinking the same as said imposter. Maybe they want you to think that they don't know anything." Jean pointed out, stubborn and not moving one bit.
You awkwardly stood there. Looking sheepishly at Lisa who kept an eye on you. You hadn't moved an inch, feeling that if you did it would only get worse.
"Does Diluc know already?" Lisa had asked not breaking eye contact with you.
"You think Diluc knows more about this?" Kaeya asked with a broken laugh.
"We could get Venti to look as well." Jean nodded to Lisa
"What does the drunken bard have to do with this?" Kaeya seemed to get slightly annoyed.
"I'll go on and tell them the news." Lisa said. She walked past you, giving you chills for no reason.
Now you were left with Jean and Kaeya. Both seemed annoyed. You wanted to be excited to see them but you felt like keeping quiet might keep you alive longer.
"Kaeya, can you take them to your office for a bit? I want to speak to you alone." Kaeya said nothing but walked up to you.
Even when he was annoyed, his eyes softened when he saw you look up at him. You were confused and he knew who you were, so he couldn't help but once again open the door like a gentleman and guide you with his hand on your back.
Once you two were in his office you spoke up. "I really came from another world." Your voice was soft, quiet but certain. "I don't mean any harm." You look at him.
"Oh, I know."
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 2: CH2 - The isekai life
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Kaeya had left for a while now. You didn't really know what to do besides sit down on his desk chair. There was no other place to sit and it did seem comfortable enough. The room itself looked clean and not used, safe for his desk which was an absolute mess. You refrained from looking at the documents scattered on it, not wanting to invade his personal business.
'So getting my thoughts straight, I know I'm not dreaming.' You at first had thought otherwise but since you were experiencing things too real you knew it to be true. Besides, you might have pinched yourself quite a few times earlier.
'Second of all. I'm in Genshin.' It was probably the hardest thing to understand. When you first woke up in Windrise you just went with the flow but you can't help but get stressed out at it. You love Genshin, sure, but you had a life somewhere else. And now, just when you were getting to terms with this being real you began to question your 'normal' life. How much of that life was real if this all happened?
You were familiar with the trope, getting isekai-ed into a new world, but that was anime. As far as you knew you weren't some anime character. You also didn't die, nor get hit by some truck to arrive here in Genshin.
After a few minutes of staring out of the window and tossing your thoughts around, you stood up and looked at the bookshelf against one of the walls. Dragging a finger across one of the shelfs you found it coated in dust. The books too, seemed to be in the same forgotten state. There were some normal titles, 'A knight's handbook' and 'Mondstadt history', but another book seemed to stick out. It had a brighter spine and whilst it also collected dust it had been read unlike the others.
'Divinity and The Creator.' The golden letters on the spine almost glowed, but that might be the sun glaring down at the golden ink.
Before you can grab the book the door opens. Kaeya's figure enters the room. He looks stressed out, which doesn't suit his in-game character.
"I fear your arrival might have stirred up more than just one person." He smiles, though you can see it was a bad joke since his brows were slightly furrowed.
It was quiet the next few seconds, not an awkward one, but it did feel longer than necessary. Kaeya sat down on his desk and then glanced at you. His eyes seemed to turn darker, more serious as he uttered out the question.
"Are you our creator?"
You lift an eyebrow. "I'm from another world if that's what you mean?"
Kaeya continues. "When I first saw you I could feel,-" He fidgets with his hands, trying to seek the right words.
"I could feel warmth. It was like a light suddenly erupt from inside of me. Even now, it's still there." His hand hovers above his chest, at the place where his heart would be.
At the moment you felt like you might as well tell him he was a game in your world, as you deemed him to be trustworthy enough, but that still wouldn't explain why you would be 'the', or any, creator. You were a player, not some maker of the game. Your gacha luck was beyond terrible and even good substat artifacts seemed out of reach.
Instead, you asked about the twins. "Have you met either Aether or Lumine?"
Kaeya nodded. "Lumine recently left to go to Liyue." Hearing that made things a bit easier to understand. Replying to the people around you with this information makes things a bit easier.
You now knew where in the timeline you had landed, though, it made no sense why in the middle of the storyline and why at all. It now also clicked why Jean had reacted so hesitant. She recently had dealt with the abyss order corrupting Dvalin and the endangering of the city. No wonder why she is on edge.
Now the next dilemma. The Rite of Descension was supposed to happen any day now. If you were to enter Liyue now, you'd be in even more trouble as Zhongli just faked his death as Rex Lapis. Chaos would follow anyone that would be sticking out, and you were just that.
Lumine though, she might provide you with help as she is stuck in Tevyat as well. Your next step might have to be delayed until Osial has been defeated. You might have gotten transported to an amazing world but you hadn't been blessed with some protagonist powers. And really,- waiting for a vision with your last breaths wasn't a good plan.
"Do you think I will be able to contact Lumine? She is basically stuck here, like me, and might be able to help figure things out."
Kaeya stood up from his place and sat down on his desk chair, which was probably more comfortable than sitting on the actual wooden desk itself.
"At this moment a bad tempered redhead is on his way to check out the whole situation. Jean thinks you are an imposter, impersonating our Creator. I, of course, know that not to be true, but the moment Diluc steps into the headquarters chaos might ensue. I actually came here to tell you to run away for the time being."
What the-
You can't believe Kaeya would actually say that to you with a straight face.
"I-? I can't just run away! Besides I know you all won't hurt me-." Kaeya cuts you off by shaking his head.
'Normally when someone has one or two features similar to the Creator we don't do much.' He shrugs and closes his eyes temporarily. "Most likely, those people will change their appearance since rumors will be spread. We also do acknowledge the fact that people don't choose their appearance when born, but you don't have only a feature of the Creator. You are the Creator."
Kaeya leans back on his chair and looks out of the window. "In the past, there have been multiple imposters who took on your appearance. It's natural for people now to react to that, but it does surprise me that no one else feels your presence. Have you perhaps descended because you're weak right now?"
The last words fall out of his mouth like a whisper. Almost like he doesn't want to believe it, and he doesn't. In a way you're annoyed with him. You aren't the creator. You have never seen or heard about the creator in Genshin lore and you're fine with staying behind the screen because you know what fights are ahead in this story.
"Kaeya, I am not the Creator."
"Do you know how to get to Dragonspine?"
You scoff at Kaeya ignoring you, your hands crossed over your chest. He only reacts with his eyes slightly apologizing but keeps talking.
"I doubt people will suspect you going there. I do believe Albedo will sense your existence as I teleport you there."
"Hold on a minute. You can teleport?" You know many things about Kaeya, him asking you to run away wasn't that surprising as he runs his own agenda at times.
Teleporting?
That was definitely not in his lore and if he had that power you would have a 5-star Kaeya.
"It's a little trick of the abyss. I never use it since I dislike the traces it leaves behind but since Diluc can arrive here any moment, I'll do it." Kaeya's eyes are gorgeous, you knew that, but when he stared at you like you were everything he had, you couldn't do much but agree with him.
It was either trying to convince the on-edge Jean and hot-headed Diluc, or going to Dragonspine. It was an area you would avoid as much as possible due to the sheer cold but Albedo… He hadn't met Lumine yet. He wouldn't have known much about anything that was going on. He would at least be less overwhelming, and more understanding.
"Will you come with me?" You asked Kaeya. You weren't sure if you could trust him to tell the whole truth, but you did trust him when it came to protecting you.
"Unfortunately I have business to attend to. I doubt Master Diluc would be happy to see both you and me leave." His tone was playful, teasing almost, but his eyes kept a determined gaze.
You nodded. "Just don't leave me to die of frostbite."
Kaeya stood up and grabbed something out of his pocket. He held his hand on the small of your back and looked down at you.
"I wouldn't dare to do so, your Grace."
You visibly cringe for a second, not liking the awful nickname he gave you. He continues his actions and throws something. In the same second it hits the floor, it turns into a dark portal. It looked familiar, the same portal the abyssal twin and Enjou; an abyss herald used. You look at Kaeya for a second.
Before you could make some teasing comment on his associations with the abyss, Kaeya pushed you. You yelp and try to grab onto anything but stumble forward and fall into what seemed like a black pit. The next time you see him you would be sure to give him a push as well.
So much for trusting the pirate bastard.
You were sure that Kaeya had doomed you.
It definitely feels like he did something wrong. And sadly, in this outcome, you weren't going to die with your favourite characters, but in some weird portal Kaeya had pushed you in. I mean, you weren't actually dying but the never ending fall made you dizzy and sick.
You tried to grab onto anything but the portal walls seemed to be out of your reach. When you finally did fall down you were met with a thick layer of snow. It made your fall safe but also made you shiver. You immediately had pushed yourself up from the snow, making your head spin again for a second.
In your mind you could already see the sheer cold bar going up fast. 'When I see that pirate I'm going to kill him.' You can't help but clench your fists, thinking you made the wrong choice. One second he looked at you like you were his high school sweetheart and then he pushed you into some weird portal-thing.
When you look around after having brushed off all of the snow, you see the entrance to Albedo's home? Is it a home? Probably more like a cave. Either way, Albedo didn't seem to be around. At this point you weren't sure if you felt disappointment or relief.
There was a campfire on the ground close at the opening. It was unlit but seemed recently used. 'Perhaps he leaves some matches around?' You go to the table. Albedo had a geo vision so surely he had something to light the campfire with.
A lot of books and papers were laid out on the table. You saw a scale too, though it held nothing but air. Some potions, none of which you knew to be useful, some more papers, books- nothing. You were going to freeze, it was getting dark and you had no idea if anyone was nearby. You truly were miserable. Maybe once you were close to dying the gods would give you a vision, which you doubted but still.
"Hello."
Your head turns around faster than you thought it could. Surely Albedo's figure is at the opening of his hangout. He looks much better in person as his hair is thicker like in his trailer. He looks calm, not revealing any of his emotions.
"Hi." You don't wave at him. Your hands are cold and you keep them close to each other on your chest.
From across the place, Albedo can see your reddened cheeks and nose. Your figure visibly shivered and whilst most of your clothes did protect you against the cold, it wasn't the thickest.
The two of you stand there until Albedo reaches for his pocket. You keep a close eye on him but he doesn't pull out his sword.
From his pocket he grabs a small bottle. It's red and seems to be glowing. You take a small step back which makes him look up at you.
Albedo slowly opens the bottle and fog leaks out. The red soon forms a small figure, a seelie. It flies around Albedo and then descends to the unlit campfire. It takes a second before you can see the wood starting to heat up, and by the time the seelie has disappeared, a warm fire is cracking at the entrance of the cave where Albedo was.
He kept being stoic. He didn't move much either. Your body seemed to have decided him to be a lesser danger than the cold because you slowly walked up to the fire, keeping some distance between you and Albedo.
You crouched down and moved your hands forwards. You took a peek at Albedo, looking up at him through your eyelashes. His teal eyes looked back at you. Were you supposed to say something? Probably, you did enter his home without any announcements. From Kaeya's story about past imposters of the creator he might think the same about you.
You stand up from the fire, being a bit warmer. You knew saying anything might be better than the growing questions in his head about you, so you did.
"Kaeya sent me here." After your words escape your lips, his eyes leave your face for the first time. His eyes then look at the place where you had previously landed. Your figure being squashed in the snow was still visible.
"Feel free to stay as long as you'd like."
You lift up your eyebrow at him. You were going to take that opportunity as it was getting darker but you had expected at least a question. You expected him to be hesitant, to be wary, but he gave you a small smile.
"Okay."
You kept your place at the entrance. Albedo had moved further into the place and now was sketching. It was on his notebook so whilst you glanced at him from time to time, you couldn't make out what he was actually drawing.
When the dark consumed the sky, stars started to appear. They shimmered brightly against the harsh black of the night. The campfire was still burning next to you, keeping you warm and the sheer cold away. Albedo had once walked up to you with some more wood, laying it on top of the already burning pile and then retreated again.
You were okay with the silence for now. It gave you some time to settle in your new life, though you weren't sure if you were ready to call it that. You thought back on what you were doing before waking up in Windrise but your mind seemed to blank every time.
Even with the moon high in the sky you couldn't feel sleep overcome you. You were wide awake, and alert too. It was kind of scary. You couldn't hear any hillicurls or monsters, but sometimes a creaking noise was there, and it did not come from Albedo.
In the beginning of your stay the blonde had given you some sheets to sit on. It was big enough to keep you warm when you slept, but up till now you simply stared at the sky.
You couldn't really remember much anymore. It sounds so bad but you were having such a hard time figuring out what your home situation was. Of course, you had a mother and father but your mind didn't seem to get much further beyond that. It made you feel terrible.
"Are you thirsty?" You look up at Albedo.
He held a mug in his hand. It was white with no decorations on it from what you can see. A small line of steam was flying out of the mug. You snapped out of your thoughts and then focused on your body.
"A little bit."
He nods and hands you the mug. He towers over you since you're sitting down but it doesn't really intimidate you. The mug is warm and you smell chocolate. A content sigh leaves your lips as you take the first sip. It warms you up a lot.
You can hear Albedo's footsteps as he leaves your side. You turn your head to him.
"Thank you."
He stops and looks back at you.
"Are you comfortable enough?"
For the first time since you had met him, you saw some emotions.
He was unsure.
For his question, you aren't comfortable, but then again, that doesn't have to do something about this place or him. So you nod at him. Maybe- just maybe, if you woke up in Tevyat you would leave if you slept? It wasn't the most logical but it was your last hope of this being a lie.
It was your last hope of returning home.
You drank your hot chocolate until the last drops turned cold. You then stood up and walked over to him. You set down the mug and thank him once again. When he looks up at you he tells you that it was no big deal, but you were grateful nonetheless.
You then sat again and leaned down. Your back hit the ground gently. You curled up into the blankets, chasing any warmth. The blankets smelled like pine wood, though you were sure it would smell like campfire by the time you would wake up.
You told yourself you were only going to close your eyes, taking a rest but not sleeping yet. You focused on the sounds around you. The wood cracking from the fire, Albedo's pencil pulling lines across his notebook, some birds flying off.
Whatever happened tomorrow, would be tomorrow's problem, you decided.
And with that thought you relaxed, falling into a deep sleep.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 3: CH3 - Freezing Cold
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
You woke up to voices talking. Immediately you sit up, alert and awake. Kaeya and Albedo instantly notice and look over. You had been moved from the entrance to the back of Albedo's place. You now laid on a sleeping bag with a pillow for your head. You too felt a blanket draped on top of your body to keep you away from the everlasting snow blizzard outside.
Now, two nights after each other, you had awoken in strange places that definitely weren't your bed. You doubted it was going to change any time soon. Still, the sleeping bag was an improvement from the grass you had awoken in the first day in Tevyat.
"Sorry for waking you up." Albedo gestures to Kaeya who grins and waves at you. "Apparently he was worried after shoving you into Dragonspine without warning."
"Hey-!" Kaeya pokes Albedo's side with his elbow. "As if Master Diluc was the better option here. Besides, it was just a light tap."
Whilst he definitely shoved you, you were glad he was here to clear up his name. You rub your eyes, the sun wasn't up high yet and you wondered why Kaeya was here. Clearing up his name definitely wasn't important enough to climb up the snowy mountain before sunrise.
"Good morning." You utter out.
Your clothes were messed up from sleeping in them and you didn't want to see what your hair looked like after waking up. Even if your 'I just woke up' appearance was messy, Albedo and Kaeya didn't take any mind to it. Instead, Kaeya seemed quite happy in your presence and Albedo too had a small but warm smile.
"We can talk outside if you wish to sleep further." You shake your head at Albedo.
"It's fine. The sun is out now anyways." Your hands go to your hair and you try fixing it as much as you can without a mirror or brush.
As you look away from them, fixing your hair, they continued conversing with each other. You notice that your boots were off your feet, standing next to the sleeping bag at the foot end. You crawl out of the blankets and put on the boots. It's definitely colder once you leave the blankets but bringing them with you would look silly.
After you have your boots on you fix your bed. You fold the blanket and lay it on the sleeping bag. With a few pats on your clothes to remove any folds, you stand up and walk over to the two talking.
"Did our Grace sleep well?" Kaeya grins down at you. His fingers graze along your forehead as he pushes away a stubborn lock of hair. His fingers are cold, you expected that, but the gesture left you warm.
Albedo carefully watches you, waiting for the answer. When you nod at Kaeya and tell him that you slept well, you can visibly see Albedo relax. It's a slight change but it doesn't go unnoticed by you and Kaeya. The latter can't help but snicker and puts his hands on his hips. Albedo looks at you as he tells you his worries.
"I know my place isn't really comfortable with the cold. During the night you started to shiver and I thought it might have been frostbite developing."
Kaeya looks at you, finger pointed to Albedo with a mischievous grin on his face.
"When I arrived here he was fussing over you like a mother hen." Albedo squints his eyes for a second and turns around. You smile at the little interaction between the two. Whilst they didn't have any screen time together, they seemed to be quite close.
"Why are you here anyways?" You frown and cross over your arms. "Last time, if I remember correctly, you pushed me into a portal and dumped me here all alone."
This time its Albedo's turn to grin in silence as Kaeya defends himself. It's only the corners of his lips but you can see it even if he tries to hide it.
"You know I would have come with you if it wasn't for Master Diluc. He basically came to scold me for bringing an 'imposter' and then letting them escape."
"Why can't I see Diluc? I told you I'm not the Creator. I can just tell him that and find Lumine to help me get back to my world." Albedo and Kaeya share a glance at each other. Albedo is the one that moves first, handing you a mug with warm liquid.
"Can you perhaps tell us more about… 'your world'?" Albedo grabbed a chair and placed it down for you to sit on. The mug in your hands was warm, the same hot chocolate as yesterday. You didn't drink from it though.
You felt like telling them would break the game, so you started vaguely.
"Uhm… I guess in my world we don't have any monsters? We have humans and animals."
You stopped and thought before continuing. "We also don't have visions, or elemental powers."
Whilst Albedo didn't have his note book, he wrote everything down in his mind. He wanted his full attention to be on you whilst you explained it to him. Your eyes cast downwards when you were thinking, and when you looked up, your gaze met his.
"Then how does our Grace know me so well?" Kaeya asked.
His question seemed to have come out of nowhere but it did make sense of him to ask you. You cast your glance toward Kaeya. He probably had a hunch of what was going on by now. Kaeya kept his place, a bit further away from you, following the conversation but letting the main talk be led by Albedo.
"Because-." You kept quiet, first looking at Kaeya and then Albedo. Both seemed to be patient with you.
"Because it's a secret." You kept your mouth shut after that. Telling them won't get you anywher,e except maybe to a healer to check your head.
"Your Grace?" Albedo had said crouching down and looking into your eyes. It was a slight push for more information, you realized.
You sigh, "Has Kaeya already rubbed off that nickname on you?"
The silence was unbearable. You could visibly see the cogs spinning in Albedo's mind while Kaeya looked slightly more emotional, concerned by a lot of things.
"Just-, please, help me get to Liyue and Lumine. From there on I will be fine, I'm sure she can help me." Albedo looks up at Kaeya, standing up again.
"I don't think we can do that." Kaeya tells you.
You frown, eyes locked with his singular one. "Whilst you are now not behind bars, the knights have issued you to be…" Kaeya looks at Albedo, asking for help.
"Kaeya is trying to say; people are not feeling your presence nor are you able to remember your divinity. This causes some trouble with the knights and them acting irresponsibly. Best you stay here until we can prove your existence."
"Knights won't come to Liyue, right?" You counter-attacked Albedo.
Little did you know there was another problem at hand.
"Well." Kaeya started. "This sounds crazy but they sent messengers to Liyue. They returned back, not too happy since they had been dismissed immediately. Rex Lapis had been killed a few days ago. Liyue is the worst place to be right now."
Whilst you already knew that, you also remembered that the same Rex Lapis was right now chilling with the traveler. If you explained that to the two, assuming they believed you, it wouldn't change the fact that the two needed to prove your presence.
"I'll try to set up something more comfortable to sleep in whilst we plan out what to do next." Albedo said, his hand on your shoulder comforting you.
The guys started their mission in finding ways to guarantee your safety and comfort. You hadn't thought that Kaeya would be just as involved as Albedo in trying to prove your existence. Albedo had drawn and created a few more chairs so all of you could sit comfortable around a table whilst a fire was cracking a few meters away.
"If I didn't know that Jean was a vessel I would have assumed it to be something related to that." Kaeya slouched down further into the chair, partly bored.
You rise up your eyebrow. "Vessel?"
Albedo talked before Kaeya had the opportunity to react. "Someone with the blessing of the creator. It's hard to explain to non-vessels but since it's you, you most likely know what I'm talking about." You take a sip from the hot chocolate, nodding at Albedo as he explains.
"At night there is a chance to see Meteor showers. During certain periods those Meteor Showers are more frequent than others. What sticks out about this event is the power people feel. A call from the creator, asking permission for them to become a vessel, or to come home. Only has it been recorded to be vision holders that experience this calling, but the event takes place all over Tevyat. They explain it all the same, the blessing of the Creator, a warm feeling of power and pure bliss."
Kaeya adds to it. "It's the same feeling I experience when I am close to our Grace. That's why there is no chance of you being a fake." He blinks, though you feel like he meant it to be a wink.
Maybe if he lost his eyepatch it would've charmed you.
"We both feel it. Whilst I haven't been a vessel for too long, Kaeya was one of the first to experience it." Albedo turns around again and notes something down in the notebook.
Kaeya grins, which slightly unsettles you because you hadn't broken eye contact with him. For a second you could see an idea pop up in his mind.
"I think I cracked the case. The creator must have favorites." His smile is broad and his chest is slightly puffed out, proud of himself being one of your possible favorites. Your mouth goes open as quickly as it shuts again, baffled at his actions. If he knew you replaced him in your team he would probably be in the tavern for a full week.
Albedo shakes his head, dismissing the idea. "If we got a hold of those ancient texts it might be easier to figure out what is going on. I doubt our dearest creator would withhold their divine aura."
He looks at you, expecting an answer. You hold up your hands protectively.
"Don't ask me, I'm still partly convinced this is all a dream."
Kaeya sighs. "Worst case we do the job ourselves and force them into feeling the presence."
Albedo looks at his notes and then shakes his head. "In that scenario we'd be causing more problems." You can only think to yourself, even more problems? Getting in Tevyat was weird, maybe fun if you could spend time with your favorite characters, but that would only be the case if you returned after spending a day here. Sadly you were instead involved in some crazy theory involving an all-powerful god.
In the few hours having spent hearing them talk, you slowly began to feel the wind again. In Mondstadt it had been more present but it left when you arrived on Dragonspine. It actually was much better when the wind was away because with each breeze you would shiver.
Somewhere during noon after Albedo had given you some food a white snow fox had sneaked its way into Albedo's place. Whilst they were usually very skittish, you found animals to be asking you for attention. You pet it once and when it reaches for your lap you let it jump. Whilst it is holding you warm you look off into the distance.
Your voice starts without realizing that you were actually saying things.
"There is a harbinger in Liyue. He is going to release Osial. After that Liyue will return to normal. I'll have to arrive on that same day or Lumine will go to Inazuma."
"I'm sorry?' Kaeya said.
Albedo, too, was baffled, slightly impressed but kept silent, observing you. You blink a few times at them. As if the world wanted them to forget everything you said, it released chaos. Within the timespan of a few seconds Amber had her bow charged at you while Eula clashed swords with Kaeya.
Turns out you were right after all.
Confirming your existence would break this world after all.
Albedo puts his body right in front of you, now a shield for you against Amber's arrow.
"You don't think twice about reaching for your sword, do you?" Eula spat out at Kaeya.
You didn't think it was possible but the room seemed to turn even colder. Cryo against Cryo, not a good match.
"What is happening here!" Amber yelled out at Albedo, pyro sputtering out of the arrow's tip.
The wind suddenly picked up and it seemed to be a snowstorm arriving soon. To hear anyone, you would have to yell.
"If you three would lower your weapons I will be more than delighted to explain the situation." Albedo said, voice louder than usual but calculated.
"Hmpf. The only thing I see is you protecting the imposter. I will have vengeance for this." Eula lowered her weapon, only slightly. Kaeya too relaxed his stance, walking a few steps back with his back towards you, shielding you even more.
As if the situation couldn't get worse another Albedo came running up towards the entrance. Amber, with her bow still lifted, turned around just in time to melt the ice spear he had thrown into the place.
"What the fuck-?!" Kaeya yelled out glancing between the two Albedos. Everyone was in fighting stance again, safe for the Albedo in front of you, whose hand was grasping your wrist tighter with each attack released.
You start to panic.
You had no way to stand strong against anyone here. Even the snow fox trembling in the corner had a higher survival rate than you.
You feel pain from the tight grip Albedo has on you, you don't dare to speak up about it though.
Kaeya abandoned fighting with Eula, who now was fixated on defeating the Albedo at the entrance of the cave. You remembered the event with the double Albedo's but you didn't think he would come out like this. With the two girls and assumingly the fake Albedo fighting in the entrance, Kaeya was by your side pulling you away from Albedo, whose grasp was still as tight.
"Move on Albedo. The Creator is definitely not safe here." Kaeya's sword was out but he didn't make any moves against Albedo.
He tried to get between you but all his attempts were futile as Albedo's grip was unmoving as stone. You moved your hand towards Albedo's chest, catching his attention. You need to get a look at the Albedo holding you. If there is one thing you know, it's that the star on his neck will tell you the truth.
Albedo looks at you and surely you see the star. "Kaeya this is the real Albedo." You semi-yell to get your voice above the fighting noises.
Kaeya sneers at Albedo. "Then who is that." He pointed with his sword. The fake Albedo seemed to be able to hold his ground against both women.
"If I must guess, an imposter." Albedo said back at Kaeya. You tug Albedo's arm and he releases his tight grip.
"Please no more portals." You look at Kaeya shaking your hand in front of you. If there is one thing you want to escape it's, preferably, both death and that portal.
"There is no way out of this cave with the entrance blocked." Albedo said. He started grabbing some stuff off of the tables and then finally grabbed his weapon. Kaeya held his sword just a bit tighter. For someone with no power and never having seen a sword fight up close you felt really intimidated.
You glance at Eula, who is crushing the ice shards with her claymore. Amber is charging her bow shots and firing pyro, making the ice melt. Albedo throws down a glass vial, making a small explosion. With this the three glance at him as both Kaeya and Albedo enter the battle.
You stand there, panicking because what the fuck are you supposed to do? You can't really ask them to stop fighting. You're pretty sure you would be caught in the fight if you made a sound or a move. You opted to hide but there wasn't really any place to do so.
You crouched down next to the fox. Your breath was quickening as an ice shard pierces the ground where you previously stood. You need to get out. You need to get out right now.
You closed your eyes hard, hands covering your ears. You didn't know if you were the one yelling out or if it was one of the other people. This wasn't funny anymore and you wanted to go home.
One moment the sounds were ringing through your hands and the next it was silent. You kept your eyes closed for a couple more seconds. Tears had been silently leaving your eyes. When you dared to open them you were met with the sun. It was unlike the light on Dragonspine, where it was dim.
Your hand is shielding you from the sun as you blinked a few times, the last tears escaping your eyes. You sat on your knees as you looked around in awe. The wind was harsh but the earth kept you from falling.
You were in Liyue.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 4: CH4 - An adventure towards the Adepti
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
You were surprised when you heard Paimon's voice in worry. "Paimon isn't sure how they appeared there, but Paimon doesn't think that they are an Adeptus." You stand up slowly, feeling some strain in your figure. When you turn around to see Paimon you are also met by the blonde traveller.
Never before did you tumble into a person but you couldn't help yourself. You jumped into Lumine's figure and held her tight. You were still shocked that you suddenly got here but it was okay. You were with Lumine now, and she would be able to help you.
Slowly, as you hold her, two hands made their way onto your back. Without any words shared you two stood there, content for a while. Once you were calm you let go of your grasp. From up close you could see her deep amber eyes, bordering a golden colour. They were confident, not holding much emotion at all.
Her light blonde hair framed her face and the flowers in her hair seemed to be freshly picked. You close your eyes and breathe in a breath that you were holding for too long. "You don't know how glad I am to see you." You tell her.
Lumine reaches out for your hair and takes out a leaf. She drops it to the ground and then reassures you with a smile. It was a short interaction but it made you lower your guard. "Woah. Paimon isn't sure what happened but you two seem like good friends."
When you look over at the floating little human you smile. Before you can tell her that this is the first time meeting Lumine, she herself speaks up for you. "We are." Lumine gestures to you and then sends a warm smile your way. You aren't sure what your expression is but it must be mirroring the shocked Paimon face.
"This is the person who travels with us." Lumine says. Its more directed to Paimon but somehow it clears things up for you too.
Paimon looks over at you and tilts her head sideways. She places her finger on her chin in a thinking motion and then wonders out loud. "While Paimon is supposed to be your travel companion, I don't actually know much about the Creator. Paimon also hasn't been a vessel like you." She looks at Lumine, who was the first unlocked character so assumingly also the first 'vessel'.
Both of you share a look. You weren't going to get over the whole 'Creator' thing, but it looked like the world wasn't going to give you a choice. Choosing to ignore the creator statement once again, you put your hands on your hip. "I thought you guys were in Liyue."
The blonde traveller nods, her front locks bouncing slightly. Just like in the game Paimon speaks for her. "We were just in Liyue but the Geo Archon had died. Now we're visiting the Adepti, though, we only have one left to visit." Lumine gives a small smile to Paimon and then looks over at you.
She had been glancing at your figure for a while now. You knew by this time you needed a shower and a comfortable bed to look presentable, though no one had the guts to actually say something about it.
The wind blew into your hair, gently caressing you. You knew the place you were standing on. You were on mt. Aocang. Having been here many times, you knew it to be the home of Cloud Retainer, an Adeptus. You mainly recognised the place by the pond and the stone table which wasn't far from you. If you stepped closer you surely could have seen the engraved names of 'Guizhong', 'Rex' and the Adeptus herself.
After a short silence the floating companion speaks up again. "Paimon is sure that the Adepti can wait a bit. Paimon is also feeling a little tired after all that floating around." She giggles after that and point to a stove under one of the trees further away. "Why don't we go there and rest a bit before we go see the Vigilant Yaksha?" You smile at her. "Sounds like a plan."
Lumine was the first one to start walking. Paimon was immediately at her side and you soon followed to take the other. When the three of you sat down in the grass, Lumine gets out a box of matches. She lights it on fire and places it on the wood beneath the stove.
"You know, it had been a long while since I last felt your presence." Lumine said as she puts the box of matches away. You figured that she meant you playing her character behind the screen. Your main team switched up regularly and while you did all of the main story quests with her, it had been a good couple weeks since you done so.
You wanted to apologise to her. She seemed genuinely upset and worried. Paimon too had her eyebrows furrowed together in worry. Whilst she couldn't feel your presence as much as Lumine, hearing that you disappeared gave her worries as well.
"Can I ask you something?" You look over at the blonde who gives you a nod. "I actually have no idea why I am here. I was in Dragonspine before, there Albedo and Kaeya tried figuring it out with me, but they were at a loss as well."
Paimon makes a small gasping sound and then points her finger in the air like she had an idea. "Perhaps it has something to do with the Geo Archon." She looks over at Lumine. "If Paimon remembers correctly, the Geo Archon had been one of the only left from the original seven."
For a second it made sense but then you realised that the Geo Archon was probably drinking tea on a certain Harbinger's tab this very same moment. "I am certain it's not that." You mutter out, bringing your face in your hands. You groan softly. You're not going to tell them the story, just in case Eula and Amber suddenly spawn again.
A hand makes it way on your back. You look up and see Lumine smiling. "We will figure it out together." She has a gentle voice you realise. You wish you could hear it more.
"Paimon thinks the Adepti can help you as well! Cloud Retainer seemed upset so its probably the best that we leave her alone for now." Paimon is right. They probably just told them about the 'death' of Rex Lapis. Which means some alone time wouldn't be wrong, yet you are trespassing her home. It's a wonder the crane hasn't stepped out of her abode to scold you.
"Paimon suggests that we all go to visit the last Adepti together!" Her excited voice might have been annoying behind the screen but it does a good job at cheering you up now. When you started wondering about what Xiao would think of you, you were reminded by the reaction of others.
With some hesitation and a bit of awkwardness you speak up. "I would say yes but there is a slight problem." You scratch the back of your neck as you see Lumine lift up her eyebrow. "When I was in Mondstadt everyone believed me to be an imposter. I tried telling them that I am just as confused as them but it only got downhill from that point."
Paimon and Lumine looked at each other. "An imposter?" Paimon asked confused. It seemed like they didn't know what had happened in the past. "Kaeya and Albedo explained some things to me. Apparently there is a difference between resembling The Creator-" You groan. "And looking exactly like them. In the past there have been people that look exactly like The Creator whom would do bad things to darken their name."
You think for a second. "Mondstadt was as confused as me, but Kaeya and Albedo seemed to feel the same thing you feel around me. They called it a blessing of sorts." You pull your knees to your chest. "I was with them before teleporting here. Eula and Amber came out of no where and the four got into a fight." You cant help but think you left them behind there. Yes, you wanted to be gone but it wasn't your intention to abandon them in such situation. You were certain the both could keep their ground though.
Paimon looks a bit confused and tries to sum it up for herself. "So what you're saying is, Mondstadt believes you're a bad person impersonating The Creator, while you are The Creator? And Kaeya together with Albedo helped you until they got into a fight with Eula and Amber?" You nod. More had happened and you had gotten a lot of information in the past 24 hours, but this would do.
"Are you afraid the same will happen here?" Lumine asks you. In the corner of your eye you could see Paimon nod her head, wondering the same. "Well, its hard not to right? I don't even know who I am at this point,-" You sigh. Lumine grabs something from the backpack she had been carrying. It seems to be a huge blanket until she holds it up.
"Perhaps your presence will be felt by the people if you stay here longer. For now we can hide your face." In her hands she held a long cloak with a hood. Probably looks suspicious but Lumine and Paimon might cancel that out with their own appearance. You stand up together with her. She walks around you and gently puts it on your shoulders. You adjust it and button the front so it wouldn't blow away.
The cloak reached just above your ankles. It was a dark blue colour with a light pattern towards the bottom. You put on the hood and look at Paimon. "What do you think?" Paimon smiles and puts up her thumb. Lumine too checks it out and confirms with you. "It might be a bit unusual for the people in Liyue but you are covered for now. But even if your face is hidden, your presence is not."
"Ah, it'll have to do for now." You smile and remove the hood. Between the three of you, you don't need to hide yourself. "Lumine?" You ask. She turns around and waits for the question. "Is there any way to check up on Kaeya and Albedo?" She smiles and reaches for her backpack, readying herself for the path to Wangshu inn. "Paimon doesn't think you should worry about them. Kaeya isn't a Knight for no reason, Albedo too."
Even if they could handle themselves it would have been nice to let both know you didn't abandon them. Who knows what happened on Dragonspine after you left?
It had been a while since the three of you set out. You didn't have to hide yourself since not many climbed up or down mt. Aocang. It was quite exhausting to be an adventurer. Lumine seemed to have unlimited stamina while you were tired after the first 30 minutes. Both of your companions were patient though, giving you time to drink water and slowing their pace.
You knew how big Liyue was, but it took you four days until you reached Wangshu inn. You had asked them about the waypoints but neither claimed to be able to use them. The adventure wasn't too terrible, though. Lumine could cook amazing dishes with little ingredients and had a tent to sleep in during the night. You all evaded hillicurl camps and luckily for you there were no treasure hoarders to be seen.
Lumine had also given you an opportunity to bathe in a river. Your hair was doing much better now and whilst your clothes could be in better shape, you looked alright when you arrived at the inn. Once you arrived in the Guili plains, you had put on the hood to keep your face hidden.
The three of you had walked up all of the stairs at Wangshu inn, which was a tedious job. By the time you were at the top you were exhausted. Lumine pats your back and waits until your breaths steadied.
"So this is Wangshu inn." Paimon says whilst floating around, looking around the lobby. "Compared to Jueyun Karst this place seems basic. Are we really going to find an adeptus here?" You laugh at Paimon. "He's at the balcony." Paimon gasps and floats over to you. "Have you met the Adeptus before?" You slightly shrug. "I wouldn't say that."
Lumine cuts in and scolds Paimon. "We better not reveal anything to the Adepti if they don't feel the presence of The Creator." Paimon pouts and crosses her arms. "I wasn't going to do that anyways."
You smile and head to the stairs. You turn around and gesture them over. "The view up here is really pretty." Paimon gasps and zooms past you, Lumine following close behind the both of you.
When the three of you reach the balcony you are shaken by how high up you are. You can see the mountains in the distance and the river stretching towards the horizon. "Woah!" Paimon says, totally focused on the view instead of the mission. Lumine too takes a minute to breathe in the scenery. You cant help but be nervous. Xiao should appear any second out of nowhere.
"Are you afraid of hights?" Paimon almost scares you with her question. You lay your hand on your heart and exhale. "This definitely isn't a place where I would want to fall off." Lumine smiles and holds out her hand. Hesitantly you take it and walk closer.
You let go of your thoughts and look around. Once you see the snowy mountain to your right you point it out. "Woah! You can see Dragonspine from here." Paimon nods and floats over to look towards the right as well. "It's so big!" You smile, Lumine does as well as she sees you point out all the landmarks you know.
After a while the three of you take a step back. Paimon is the first to point out the obvious. "So the Adeptus isn't here after all." You bite the inside of your cheek. Xiao should have appeared by now and you were wondering why he wasn't showing up. "Maybe we need an offering?" Lumine asked you.
"We could ask the cook here to make some almond tofu?" Knowing Xiao, he would probably like that. Paimon wondered out loud as well. "Maybe we should come back tomorrow? Maybe he's busy. Y'know…With adeptus stuff!" Lumine once again waits for your answer. "It isn't a bad idea to sleep here." It had been a while since you slept in a proper bed so you were not letting that offer slide. "Let's talk to the owner then! We can also eat dinner at the restaurant here!" Paimon cheers, probably equally as excited.
After you guys ate, Lumine talked with the owner of the inn. Before long she comes back and gives you your own set of keys. "I thought you could use some alone time." You smile at her. You now know why everyone in Tevyat likes the traveller. Not once during your time travelling with them had Lumine treated you differently. She carefully watched over you, making sure you were comfortable and safe. It was really nice of her.
Your room was next to Lumine. In case anything happened, which you doubted, you would be able to yell. If it ever came to that point she would be close enough to hear and fast enough to save you.
You had wished her and Paimon a good night and then retreated to your own room. It was big for what you had expected. A single bed was placed in the middle of the room. On one side it had a nightstand with a lamp. Pushed against the other wall was a table with some folded towels on it. Overall it seemed like a nice place to get some real rest. In the connecting room was a shower and a toilet. In the shower were some soap bars. There was also a hair brush and other necessities.
One of the first things you did was undress and shower in hot water. You let the water flow into your face as you washed your hair. You smelled like flowers by the time you were done, feeling satisfied and a lot more relaxed than before.
Lumine earlier had brought some night clothes for you, which you now wore. She noticed you slept in the same clothes when you were camping but there were no shops nearby during that time, so she got it today when getting the rooms.
You also took the time to wash your normal clothes. There were no washing machines so you rubbed the soap bar in it until all the dirt was gone. You wrung it out and hung it over the sink, not having a better place in the room elsewhere.
Finally after cleaning everything you plopped down onto the bed. You weren't exactly tired yet but you also didn't feel like reading one of the books that you had found in the room. You turned on your side and sighed. "Why did Xiao stay away?" It was a question you had no answer for. Maybe it was because you took too long? You could only hope that he would come tomorrow when you had almond tofu for him.
What also kept you occupied was the events on Dragonspine. Was it a coincidence that Eula and Amber appeared after you told the future to Albedo and Kaeya? Or was it Tevyat punishing you?
You get brought out of your thoughts when you hear knocking. You think it must be Lumine, checking up on you or having forgotten to tell you something. You sit up straight and then walk towards the door. You open it a little, in case it's someone else, but to your surprise, there is no one in the hall.
When you close the door you turn around and almost screech when you are met with Xiao lurking on the balcony of your room. What stops you from doing so is the wave he sends your way. It's an awkward wave, which makes you realize that he is the one knocking and that you stupidly had walked the opposite way.
For a second you debate on getting Lumine but that would probably result in getting the Adepti offended. You can't really leave him on the balcony in the cold, right? You slowly make your way over. His yellow eyes pierce into yours which makes you lower your gaze once you get to the door. You open it and wait for Xiao to do anything.
He doesn't move when you open the door wide enough for him to come inside, yet you also don't make a move to go outside. He keeps looking at you, and this time you return his gaze, feeling a bit more confident. He squints for a short second and then moves closer.
On instinct you step back, slightly intimidated by him but he doesn't stop. Xiao keeps getting closer until he wraps his arms around you. His head falls onto your shoulder and you feel his short breaths on your neck.
Your figure is tense, not knowing what to do. You just- let it happen.
Somehow you knew the next words would fall out of his mouth sooner or later. His voice is but a mere whisper as he softly questions you. "Your Grace?"
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 5: CH4.5 - The chief alchemist
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Dragonspine || A few days earlier.
A blinding flash of light stuns the knights and temporarily stops the fight between them.
Although Albedo recovers sooner than anyone else, he's unable to figure out what happened in those three seconds of blindness.
On his side stands Kaeya. He has one of his hands blocking his face, a reaction Albedo had as well when the light suddenly blinded him. Kaeya's other hand holds his sword defensively in front. His back faces the spot the Creator had been in previously.
Now all that remains is the white snow fox. It too seemed to be affected by the flash of light.
Albedo turns his face around from the end of his cave to the other Primordial human at the entrance. Another artificially created life form. The mark on his neck is similar to his. Alice had told him that these marks are seen as proof of the maker's fine handiwork. This Albedo must be the prototype.
Both hold their swords a bit tighter. Albedo can't attack him. The other knights are still slowly recovering their sight and they stand between the two. Should he attack, they'd most likely get caught in the crossfire.
The other Albedo seems fine with the stare-down as well. It's only when Eula recovers her sight that he averts his attention back to the others.
"Stand down." Eula holds her claymore at the ready. Albedo can't see her expression but he hears assertiveness in her voice.
The other Albedo looks back into the cave. It's only for a second, but Albedo still follows his gaze. When he looks back from the empty spot to the front of the entrance, he's gone.
Back into the mountains, Albedo assumes.
"You have a lot of explaining to do." Eula lowers her claymore. She doesn't turn around, still vigilant on the wait for the other Albedo to return. To her side is Amber, who's still recovering from the blinding light and exhaustion from the previous battle.
Albedo lets his sword dematerialize into the air.
"Alright. I must admit, I myself am confused as well." He turns around toward the place where he'd last seen you. It's the spot the other Primordial human last looked at. He takes a moment to carefully assess the area.
No blood.
At least you hadn't been harmed.
However, disappearing suddenly isn't ideal either. Albedo remembers you mentioning Liyue sometime before, and although he assumes you're still on Teyvat, it's too much of a shot in the dark to head over there himself.
Back at the entrance of the cave, Eula turns her attention over to Amber. The young outrider wasn't hurt, just very exhausted. Their previous climb to Albedo's hideout took a lot of energy from her, and the fight didn't help either.
"Are you alright?"
Amber hums. Her bow dissolves into particles when she dematerializes it. "Just exhausted."
She shoots a smile towards Eula. As confusing as the situation was, she was glad that it was just the four of them again. Before she could return the question, she heard a loud thud.
"Kaeya?" Amber calls out to the cavalry captain.
His body is crouched over the floor, his hand clenches onto his jacket. He seems to be in pain. When he doesn't answer, the other two knights get alerted as well.
Albedo is the first to rush over.
"Kaeya?"
His chest heaves up and down and he gasps for air, "Can't breathe."
Albedo turns his head to his alchemy table. There are no visible wounds, and Kaeya doesn't have anything noticeable in his medical history, so he's unsure what urged this to happen.
Perhaps a hit to the chest causing trouble with breathing? There is no trace of elemental energy on him, he disregards his first idea.
Instead of gambling the outcomes of a potion, he forces Kaeya to sit upright on the floor. Albedo kneels behind him and wraps his arms around his chest, pressing his hands together as he places them under his midriff.
With some force, he pushes back.
Kaeya successfully gasps for air.
Had he been panicking?
"Are you alright?" Amber frowns and crouches down next Kaeya. His body is relaxed again, although still catching up to the lost air.
He forces a smile, "Yes."
Kaeya stands up again. His eyes move around the cave as he brushes the dust and dirt from his clothes.
"Where is The Creator?"
The group is silent.
"Let's get back to Mondstadt." Eula continues, "You two have a lot to explain to Jean."
There's a short agreement between the four knights on whether or not to let Kaeya take some rest when they arrive at the headquarters. And while Eula remained furious, she ended up being the one to send him to a healer.
With Kaeya and Eula gone, only he and Amber remained. The headquarters seemed busy. Knights ran back and forth. When he asked Amber about it she'd answered; 'Jean wanted to resolve the imposter situation before word got out. Mondstadt has been through a lot recently. She wanted to protect the people.'
This was further confirmed when Lisa approached him. She'd taken him to Jean, and to his surprise, Diluc Ragnvindr had been there as well.
He seemed equally as frustrated as Eula. Albedo wondered if it'd be the right call to have him in the office as he explained what happened. Still, he kept silent.
"You're telling me you possibly endangered Mondstadt because you had a 'feeling'?" Diluc rubs his temples in frustration as he paces in front of the exit.
On the other hand, Lisa seems more amused by the situation, "Oh my. I never imagined Kaeya would go to such lengths because of a mere feeling."
Albedo hears how Diluc stops in his tracks. A heavy sigh is followed by some silent curses and Albedo hears the door open before it closes again.
Jean seems stressed out. Her smile is forced, but she still lets him explain.
"Albedo, you're a well-valued captain, but you need to tell me what's going on."
He hums, "It seems like we found our real imposter. It is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion for now, and of course, it's entirely natural for you to be skeptical of my story."
Albedo stops for a moment, carefully proceeding with his next words,
"There is insufficient evidence to assert what happened with any certainty at this point. Given how serious the situation is, I intend to investigate it myself, even if you decide not to pursue it any further."
Jean sighs, "We'll close Dragonspine until the situation has been resolved."
Albedo watches the Acting Grand Master furrow her eyebrows. Explaining the situation any further wouldn't bring clarity to the current situation. He needed time himself to process what happened, and Mondstadt had barely gotten time to calm down since the Stormterror situation.
They're out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Albedo tries to ease the situation, "Should I find anything, you'll be the first to know."
"You're free to go Albedo. Be sure to send me reports."
"Of course."
Lisa places a book back into its original place on its shelf between the others. Albedo had left barely a minute ago and Jean was already rushing towards the exit.
"What's the hurry?"
Lisa turns from the bookshelf and leans onto the railing.
"Master Diluc left so suddenly before. I should inform him about the situation as well."
Lisa hums, "I'm sure Kaeya filled him in already." She lifts her weight from the railing. "Don't you find it interesting that our dear knights saw an identical Albedo?"
Jean turns her head towards the door, quite obviously pondering her options in the tight situation.
"Are you still waiting for that bard?"
Jean turns her head to Lisa.
After everything that happened weeks prior, he might bring light to the situation.
All in all, a god should be able to sense another.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 6: CH5 - Visit at Wangshu inn
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Hi, Xiao." You whisper back to him. You pat him on his back once, still unsure about the close hold he had on you. It's not like you minded, but it seemed unlike him to do so. For a few more moments his face remained resting on your shoulder, his breaths ghosting on your neck.
Another few seconds pass by with him still in your arms, but then he abruptly moves. His hands change position from your back to your shoulders, where he lets them rest. You were glad to see the Yaksha, but you weren't sure if this is what you meant either. You wanted to ask why he hadn't appeared hours before, on the roof of Wangshu inn, but more so- you wanted to ask why he came to your room of all places.
"Are you hurt?" Xiao asked. His voice was laced with genuine concern, whether it was because he too believed you were The Creator was not clear to you. "I'm fine, you just surprised me." Xiao nodded at your response and removed his hands from your shoulders. As he took a step back, he crossed his arms. After a short moment, Xiao muttered out, "I see."
You'd have asked him what he thinks about you. He reacts positively, which is a relief. After all, you wouldn't know how to explain that you came from another world without sounding suspicious. Perhaps someday you'd get along with Jean. You hoped, at least.
When you look at Xiao, you can see him wanting to inch closer. The hug was unexpected but oddly nice. If he came for another one you'd have opened up your arms again, but it remained weird coming from someone who is so distant from the world.
After a while, Xiao sighs and looks at you. He moves one of his hands towards his mask. "Last time I saw you was during the Archon war, and even then you were so far away. I had to check if it was really you. If your Grace wishes me to leave, then I'll go."
"No, no- It's okay." You were confused by his words. The Archon war? You were coming to terms with being teleported to Genshin. But the fact that Xiao believes you been here during the Archon war? That brought many questions. Questions your head couldn't wrap an answer around.
You gesture towards the room. "If you want to, we can sit inside my room?" Xiao looked over your shoulder and then back to you. "Do you wish to sit down?"
You thought about it. You had been tired before, and it was a wonder that you didn't fall asleep earlier. "If you don't mind, then yes. It took me a while to get here so taking a rest is nice." You smile at Xiao who once again silently nods.
The bed was big, so you expected Xiao to sit next to you but he instead leaned his figure sideways onto the nearest wall. The teal hues in his hair shine when the moonlight hits his face, giving him a serene look. You fold your hands in your lap, keeping them warm against the breeze that comes into the room.
"Xiao, I know you think I'm the Creator. Lumine thinks so too but I really don't know what everyone means at this point." Xiao frowns, lifting his head up from the wall to look at you better. "Can't I just be an otherworldly traveller instead of some-." You lift up your fingers to quote the words in the air, "-Creator." While it didn't solve your problems, people acting normal would be more comforting.
The yaksha lifts his body from the wall. "Who is this Lumine?" he looks sideways, seemingly pondering. "Is it the blonde with the floating child?"
Normally behind the screen you'd have laughed. "Yes, but don't call her a floating 'child', well-" You smiled to yourself and shrugged. "Her name is Paimon, and I actually have no idea what she is."
You zone out for a second. Your memories are hazy. It's like you know stuff but once you think about it, you forget. You look at your hands, grasping them tight and then opening them. "Yes, this is real."
Just like Kaeya, Albedo, and the traveller, he understood. You might not be able to tell your story, or rather their story, but you aren't alone. And for now, that would be good enough.
"The traveller is probably asleep by now. We were searching for you, to tell you important news, and while I can tell it now," Xiao tilts his head slightly. "It would be unfair to Lumine if I did."
Xiao nods and then crosses his arms over his chest, leaning back onto the wall. "I can wait." His voice is stern but you know the words are there to comfort you. You gaze into his eyes with your eyebrows furrowed. "Would it be okay for you to wait until both me and Lumine are awake?"
A sigh escapes Xiao's lips. "Call out my name. Adeptus Xiao. I'll be here when you call." He nods once and then escapes as fast as he appeared, seemingly materializing into nothing. You didn't even get to say goodbye, but you know you wouldn't need to. This was only a see-you-later after all.
Last night, after Xiao left, you suddenly got hit by a wave of exhaustion. The past days traveling to Wangshu inn on foot had been the biggest workout you've done in years. You're certain that the moment your head hit the pillow, you'd be unconscious until the next morning.
It seems you know yourself well because your prediction came true. Lumine came to wake you up the next morning because you slept in. Apparently after knocking three times she got worried and walked into the room, waking you up by gently tapping your shoulder instead. You had thanked her and she left again so you could get ready.
Taking full advantage of the shower, you once again let the warm water wash over your body. By some miracle, all the clothes you washed the night before were dry. A few wrinkles remained but it's nothing you couldn't flatten out with your own hands.
Before leaving the room to meet up with Lumine, you look into the mirror. There was something off about you. Your eyes seemed different, maybe a bit more dull? You shook it off and blamed it on stress. After all, who gets teleported into a fictional world?
As you open the door, you pull the cloak onto your head. "Good morning!" Paimon's voice sounds cheerful as ever. It seemed like Lumine and her had been waiting for you to arrive in the hallway.
"You seem extra cheerful today." You say to Paimon. She immediately starts beaming, and a huge smile appears on her face. "Well, the traveller here promised to get me an extra big breakfast if I woke up early!" You glance over from the happiest Paimon to Lumine who cringes to herself. "She would've slept in if I didn't." Paimon flies over to Lumine after that. "Hey! You might be fine sleeping outside but my body needs a soft bed, y'know!"
She huffs and crosses her small arms over her body. The two are each other's best friends and it showed in their interactions. It was wholesome to see. Speaking about interactions, you should tell the two about Xiao.
"Guys…?" Lumine and Paimon stop their friendly bickering and turn around to look over at you. "I perhaps met the Adeptus we were searching for. He suddenly showed up last night."
Paimon gasps and rushes over to you, getting excited again. "Really? Oooo, what if he only comes out at night?" She spins around and looks at Lumine. "I don't think that's the case, Paimon." Lumine turns back to look at you, a glint of worry is in her face. "It isn't, right?"
You laugh and shake your head. "Nope. He isn't some vampire. He told me to call out his name and he'd come." Paimon gasps and quickly hides her body behind Lumine. "I have no idea what a vampire is but it totally sounds scary!"
There is an urge to scare Paimon but you hold the vampire information to yourself. "Did he tell you where or when to call his name?" You think about it before answering Lumine. He didn't specify where or when,- but perhaps the balcony? It's the spot where he was supposed to meet Lumine and Paimon in the first place. Surely it would be a good place?
"Let's go to the same balcony as yesterday. I'll call his name there."
Paimon zooms right in your face with the most shocked yet annoyed expression. "I didn't get my free breakfast yet!" While you laugh at her, Lumine drags Paimon back by her cape. "Is food all you think about?" She lightly scolds Paimon and sighs. Her amber eyes glide over to yours. "Are you okay if we get breakfast first? I'll pay for you, of course."
Once everyone had their food Lumine asks about Xiao. "Did the Adeptus end up seeing your face?" She asked in a careful way. You didn't see any point in hiding it so you told her the truth. "He did. I wasn't wearing my cloak since I thought nobody would visit my room, but it resulted in him seeing me."
Lumine nods, bringing her food to her mouth. When looking at Lumine you could see her think. It was as if she was constructing her next question. You didn't mind because you trusted her, but it still made you nervous in some way.
Lumine leans closer to you once she figured out her next question. "The Adeptus knows you're The Creator?" She whispers into your ear, even if there weren't many people around. "Lumine, how can you be so sure I'm the creator? I don't remember anything like that. I didn't make you."
Lumine rests her back and frowns. "I'll find a way so you can remember. Until then, just trust me okay?" You nod and take a bite of your food. Could you really have forgotten such memories? It wouldn't be too much of a surprise since you're already losing any other memories you had from before waking up here.
"Oh! Paimon has a question as well." You look over her. "This Adeptus is also a Yaksha, right?" You nod and while you and Paimon understand, Lumine sends a questionable face towards you. "Yaksha's are a group of Adepti protecting Liyue, though only one is left." You explain to her.
"I wonder if we should bring an offering regardless of him wanting to come. Paimon doesn't want to get on the Adepti's bad side." Paimon stuffs some more food down and waits for a response from either of you.
"We can buy a dish from the restaurant?" Lumine asks you. If there is one thing you know, it's that Xiao only cares about almond tofu. You also knew that the guy cooking for the restaurant made that dish so it was easy to get as well.
"Can we get almond tofu? I'm certain he likes that." Lumine nods and offers to go order it now so it'll be done sooner. While she is gone, Paimon is way too focused on the many dishes she had ordered. You too try to get a bite from everything now you're finally in Tevyat. You just have to be fast before Paimon finishes everything.
Lumine thanked the cook and came walking back with the almond tofu. You had been waiting for her with Paimon keeping you company. Somehow it seemed like she always had something to tell. Most of the time it comforts you. At least with Paimon you didn't have to think about filling any awkward silences.
"I could almost eat this!" Paimon hovered above the almond tofu which Lumine had to shield away from her. "After all that food you just ate?" Lumine grumbled, keeping Paimon at a safe distance.
You can't help but laugh. Wasn't Paimon the one to suggest bringing an offering? And now she wants to eat it? "Let's go before she actually eats it," You make your way to the stairs which would bring you to the upper balcony, the two following you from behind still bickering between each other.
You realised you'd never get tired of the view from the balcony. Tevyat seemed more vibrant that your own world. "You ready?" You ask as you turn to face the two. Lumine hands you the almond tofu as both nod.
You knew Xiao would come, yet you remained nervous. It would be really awkward if he decided to not show up after all. You breath in once, and then say his name. "Xiao?"
The sudden change in air tells you that he appeared. Not only that but the yell from Paimon was also a good sign. "Your Grace."
Xiao gazes at you turning around, and even if your figure and face are behind a cloak, he can tell it's you. "You can call me y/n, it's okay." You hold the almond tofu out towards him. He seems reluctant to take it but once you reassure you got it for him, he accepts the offering. "Is this the traveller?" Xiao asks. There seems to be a slight tension between the two, which is unexpected. In the game the two would become close. Maybe they needed some time?
"Yes, this is Lumine and Paimon." You gesture over to the two. Lumine steps a bit closer to you, Paimon following her right behind. "I see," Xiao mutters, his eyes glance back to you. "You wanted to tell me something."
At this, you panic. It's not that you didn't want to tell him but how do you tell him that Rex Lapis is dead, knowing that he isn't? Maybe you should let Lumine figure this one out. But that might end up worse since the two seem to have some tension?
Before you could decide Lumine steps forward. "It's not the best news." Xiao crosses his arms and sighs. "You realize I am unable to harm you as you have the sigil of permission on you, right?"
Paimon looks over at you, seemingly just as nervous. Lumine keeps her ground and starts explaining her story. She told it in a much better way than you could've, probably the reason how she made so many friends over all Tevyat. Xiao listened carefully the whole time. He seemed shocked for a moment but he kept glancing at you.
Once Lumine was done, he spoke up. It seemed like he was mumbling to himself. "The ruling Qixing… Just what role have they played in this?" He stares at you and moves his hands on his hips. "Perhaps this is the reason you once again descended down from the heavens."
Xiao turns to look at Lumine. "You spoke to Moon Carver, Mountain Shaper, and Cloud Retainer, yes?" She nods at the yaksha who turns back to you. His expression is the same but his eyes hold some form of worry. You can't figure out what he's thinking. "I'll be visiting them. It's time they too make a decision."
Before you can reply Paimon speaks up. "Will the Adepti take over his role in Liyue?" Xiao lowers his arms to his side. "Adepti do not turn on their responsibilities. Have the others been informed of the Creator's presence?"
You shake your head. "I don't think so." You look over at Lumine and Paimon. "I came to Mt. Aocang after they met up with Cloud Retainer." Paimon sends you a smile before moving her attention to Xiao. "Are you going to meet up with them?" He answers with a short yes. "I guess we will be meeting up with Childe again," Paimon says as she turns around to look at Lumine.
You have no idea if they already figured out his identity as a Harbinger. Hopefully Childe will stay on your good side. Going back to meet him will mean that you'll see Zhongli soon as well. You're still stuck not knowing why you're here and why people think you're some creator. Perhaps Zhongli would be able to answer your questions?
"Your grace?" You return your gaze to Xiao. "Your safety won't be guaranteed in Liyue Harbour. It's best if you stay by my side until the Adepti have figured out what to do." At this point the tension returns back when Lumine takes your hand.
"I can guarantee the safety of Our Grace." Xiao doesn't take a glance at Lumine but returns a comment. "And how are you going to do that with the killer still out there?" You can't help but think about Zhongli, who probably is drinking while Liyue was falling down. He probably should've chosen a better way to retire from his god duties.
"I don't think Liyue Harbour is dangerous. I'll keep my cloak on me and Lumine can protect me if we run into battle." You squeeze her hand and look over to see her sending a smile, happy that you trusted her.
After a few moments of silence, your other hand is taken as well. "Call my name," Xiao tells you.
You look at him. His expression is the same as always, but you sense some hint of sadness.
"Call my name if you need me."
You nod and you only get the chance to squeeze his hand before he lets go. He disappears before you can say goodbye. You wish you could've told him about Zhongli and the real story behind Rex Lapis' faked death. You didn't want him to think that you don't trust him but going to the Adepti right now seemed like a bad plan, especially if you hadn't figured out anything.
"Woah. Paimon was scared you guys were going to fight for a moment there." You look over at the two. Paimon is grinning at Lumine. She seems a lot more relaxed now but she keeps your hand close for a few more moments. "You're ready to head out?" Lumine asks you.
Both Lumine and Paimon seem happy for you to join them. You hold out your other hand for Paimon which she grabs it gently. Her hands are really small but she seems happy to join in. "Let's go to Liyue Harbour!" She yells excitedly.
You knew Xiao was just one call away so you were ready to go. Perhaps a bit nervous, but you were ready.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 7: CH6 - Liyue Harbor
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The trip to Liyue harbor took five days in total. On the fourth, you could at last see the city from a distance glowing in the night. You had been looking down from the camp towards your destination; Even in the night the city was as busy as ever and you wondered if the lights ever go out at all.
During your trip to the city, you've been growing closer to Lumine and Paimon. You've grown close enough that they have finally begun addressing you by your name, which was a huge relief to you. Paimon also took the time to fill you in on the 'Creator' situation and told you about the history of said Creator and Teyvat. You made it your own personal mission to get a copy of the book, Divinity and The Creator, which she mentioned. Perhaps that will guarantee you some answers about your own existence in Teyvat and why you were called the Creator.
When you hear Paimon approaching you, you shuffle more to the side. The blanket you sit on is big enough for three, yet you move anyway. "What are you thinking about?" Paimon sits down next to you and awaits your answer. Part of you feels excited but now that Liyue is in reach you're starting to feel anxious as well. You don't want to believe that you must fight Osial, or Childe for that matter once you progress the storyline. Then, there is also the issue of people recognizing you as the Creator, the player behind the screen, and some godly figure unassociated with Celestia.
A chilly breeze brushes against you, making you curl up more. "I hope it won't be too crowded, though with all the boats still docked…" As you trail off Lumine exits the tent you had previously set up. She had already removed her shoes and carried another blanket with her. "What are you two talking about?" She sits down between Paimon and you, still holding the blanket in her arms. As she gets comfortable, she unfolds the blanket and moves it so that everyone is protected from the cold.
You sigh, in which Paimon responds with a sigh as well. "Paimon was really excited to get back to Liyue harbour for the food and such, but-" She starts floating up from her space, putting her hands on her hips. "Then the Rex Lapis thing happened and now Paimon is worried."
Right. She might be implying the chaos in the city. You were lucky that you missed the Rite of descension. If you got caught up in that mess you'd be done for.
Paimon settles down on the ground again and lazily points at the city. She mentions Rex Lapis and her own thoughts. "Hm. Even with the chaos, the city still looks beautiful." Lumine murmurs while staring down at the lights. She reaches her hand forward, tracing the lights in her view. You can only agree with her and join her gaze towards the city.
Part of you wonders if this is the calm before the storm– and you can only hope that the thought is wrong. Either way, it seemed like meeting Childe was the next step in your quest. You didn't remember many details, but the story ends with him releasing Osial. Maybe you could stop that? At the same time, with the release of Osial, he made Liyue an independent nation. Perhaps it's bound to happen by fate?
The next morning you break down the tent with Lumine's help. While the two were busy, Paimon had been calculating the time of arrival, which was far off from the actual time you entered the city. Around noon when the sun was directly above you, you arrived in front of the gates of Liyue Harbor.
While looking up you hold your cloak a tighter to your frame.
The layered buildings in the harbour reach high, seemingly built on top of each other. The streets filled with people being a testament to how large the harbour truly is. In the streets you see the Millelith patrolling the area, guarding the city from any dangers. When you look forward again you see a few children running around the streets as well. Even when they almost bump into your figure, your smile begins to grow even bigger. Lively marketplace chatter and varying fresh aromas fill the air; So this is Liyue's ambiance.
No matter how many people you see, you still wonder how much you'd be sticking out right now. Sure, there is quite the variety of oddly dressed individuals, especially among the vision bearers in Liyue, but you wonder how long you can wear your cloak before the Millelith deem you to be suspicious.
"Y/n, we need to go up here. He's at the Northland bank." Lumine already took a turn as she asks you to follow her up the stairs. She does a good job at guiding you through the busy city. You try to make a path between the passing people as you hurry your way to Lumine, who's already halfway up the red stairs waiting for you. From the citizens passing by you hear all kinds of information: Restaurant tips, stories about people, but it's mainly the recent passing of Rex Lapis.
Whilst you keep following Lumine, you get a quick glimpse of Chongyun and Xingqui passing by below you. It's weird to see everyone's life intertwine, even if you knew that they both reside in Liyue.
Lumine turns her head around, looking at you over her shoulder. "I told you his name, correct?" You assume she's talking about the person you're about to meet, "Childe?" She nods. "We think he's running some double agenda, but he helped us before, so we're working together for now."
You're a tad surprised; they aren't far off from the truth. From what you've seen, it seemed she trusted Childe, yet his charismatic personality wasn't enough to convince her. Maybe with the events bound to happen you're glad that she has some reservations, but even more so, you're glad that your companions keep you informed as well.
Finally, you reach Northland bank. As you walk through the doors, you notice it seems to be a lot bigger now that you're inside, and quite crowded with people as well. Both fatui, and, you assume, normal people seem to make business. In the midst of it all Ekaterina, the receptionist, recognises Lumine. She waves you over and the scrutinizing look she gives you doesn't go unnoticed. "Let me inform him of your arrival. Please wait outside for a moment."
You watch as she disappears behind a large door leading further into the bank. The door itself looks strangely suspicious with two other fatui guarding it. "Are you coming?" Paimon asks as she hovers back towards you. "Mhmm." You answer as you watch the doors close with an echoing thud. Ekaterina disappears without looking back. The guards give you a look which finally makes you turn around to follow the other two outside.
Lumine walks over to you once the door is closed. The area seems a lot more quiet and you're free to talk now that no one is near. "Are you doing okay with the cape?" Lumine wonders out loud as she watches you fix the cloak to hang above your eyes. "It's a bit warm but with a breeze I should be fine." You send her a smile and a thumbs up, If you didn't sit still for long periods it was easy to deal with. Considering the length it was surprisingly light as well.
You turn around once you hear the door open. "I see you brought yet another companion, though this one doesn't seem to fly." Childe laughs as he makes fun of Paimon. You keep your mouth shut and look over at Lumine. He surely appeared faster than you thought he would.
"They are my friend, as well as a helping hand in informing the Adepti." Lumine keeps her eyes on Childe, not a second of hesitation in her answer. You hope he doesn't push the subject of your identity further, "I see. How was your journey to Jueyun Karst?" Most likely, he wants to know how the Adepti reacted to the death of Rex Lapis, though he makes it sound like genuine interest for your journey. Lumine informs him shortly about the shocked reactions but leaves out Xiao's name or the events that happened once she met you. As she does so, Childe seems really intrigued and keeps track of every Adepti name that Lumine mentions.
Like in the story, Childe holds up his end of the deal by giving you information as well. During the conversation he seems very analytical, yet he also upholds his charm in a natural way. It doesn't surprise you that Childe is a harbinger. He is powerful in battles and yet a charismatic person who's easy to talk with.
"They've announced that, as the true killer has not yet been found, they aren't allowing anyone to pay their respects to the Exuvia." Childe crosses his arms over his chest, "They've even gone as far as to try and cut off information, but with the Rite of Descension and all, even the Qixing isn't able to keep a lid on things."
Paimon reaches out a finger in the air and talks for the first time in this conversation; "Exuvia?" You nod at her. You already know the answer but Childe is likely to explain it, so you wait. Huh? Why is he looking towards me? "You can explain," he moves his hand towards Paimon waiting for you to explain what an Exuvia is. "I assume from your reaction you already know the answer, right?"
You clear your throat. Perhaps you should stop breathing during this conversation because any slight movement, apparently, gives out information. You start to explain and notice Paimon gazing back and forth between you and Childe. "The Geo Archon is also known as the Exuvia, Prime of the Adepti." You know it's the correct answer, and yet you can't help but regret your moment of involvement in the conversation. You don't need everyone's eyes on you.
Paimon holds her index finger to her chin, thinking out loud. "That's why the Adepti are so involved with the Liyue citizens?" You shrug not fully knowing the answer, you're lucky Childe speaks up again. "If the ruling Qixing became unable to perform their duty properly, the Adepti have the right to take corrective action." he continues, "Now that the Geo Archon's spirit has risen, why would the Qixing hide his vessel? Truly suspicious." Lumine looks at the ground with her arms crossed, "We came here for the Geo Archon, so this makes things difficult for us as well."
Paimon disappointedly pouts. "Now that the Qixing have the Exuvia locked up, Lumine's quest to find the Seven is already over." Both you and Lumine sigh at the same time. How can Paimon be that dense to give Childe that information?
"The Seven?" His attention moves from you directly over to Lumine. "Why are you trying to find them, pray tell?" He doesn't hide his excitement in his voice and leans a bit closer. You look over to Lumine who denies any answer. "No comment."
For a moment Childe laughs. It's loud and yet seeing him laugh so genuinely makes you smile as well, but you're quick to remove that emotion. "Fair enough." He looks over to you. His blue eyes seem to darken for a moment. "Do I at least get to see your companion?" You take a step back and avert your gaze. "I see. Know that I can help you too with your other problem." His eyes return to Lumine. "Give me some time to find someone."
Right. Zhongli.
"Truly fascinating. The harder they try to silence the situation, the greater the chaos that erupts…" Childe gazes off into the distance for a moment. "If you want to be around to see it all come crashing down, best you stay alive until we next meet, yes?" Lumine turns her gaze at you, but you're fixed on Childe. Did he really hint at releasing Osial?
"I'll see you next time, Travellers." He grins and waves a goodbye before heading inside again.
"That was something." Lumine mutters. "Seems like we should find a place to stay for a while." Paimon stretches her arms. "Paimon is a bit tired after all that talking."
You yawn with Paimon. "You barely talked more than I did" You tease her which makes her pout. The three of you depart from the Northland back, walking down the red stairs. "With the whole -murderer on the loose- we should probably lay low for now." She looks back over her shoulder to you. "I'll take on some extra commissions so we can stay inside an inn for now."
Even if you know you wouldn't be able to help her with commissions, you still feel guilty, even if you're the only one feeling bad. "Thank you, Lumine." She looks back one more time. "No worries."
You haven't seen nor heard from Childe the last two days. If it was up to you, you'd already have walked back to the Northland bank to check if something came up and yet Lumine told you to be patient. Paimon had been keeping you busy in the inn while the other had been out for commissions most of the day. Once Lumine returned you'd try to make something to eat, and no matter how plain you cooked- neither ever complained.
Paimon floats over to the window you've been staring out of. "You know… looking angry at the streets isn't going to make him faster." She teases you while gently bumping her fist on your shoulder. "I guess I assumed that adventurers were faster than this." You turn your focus from the streets towards Paimon. You stand up from the chair and move it back to the table.
You reach for your pockets only to find them empty. "If I only had my…" You frown. What were you going to say? "y/n you alright? You stopped talking there." Paimon waves her hand in front of your face. "Yea, I'm alright. I seem to be forgetting a lot these past days." You shrug and smile at Paimon. "It probably wasn't that important, though this boredom? Fixing that. That's important."
Paimon turns her body around looking at the door. "Lumine should be home soon. Maybe we can eat in a restaurant today? You'd have to wear your cloak but it would be fun to see a bunch of people." She turns back around and grins. Was this a way to get your boredom to disappear or a way to get food?
It's soon after your conversation that Lumine returns. Her boots are covered with dirt but besides that she looks perfectly fine, which relieved you. "No hillicurls today?" Paimon asks, also noticing the lack of signs of a fight on Lumine. "Food deliveries in the city." She breathes out, obviously tired from her commissions.
You share a glance with Paimon, fully knowing what she's about to ask. "Soo.. We've been wondering and-" Lumine stays still at the door opening. "Perhaps we can go eat at Third-Round Knockout for today?"
It's silent for a second. Lumine sighs and looks over at you. "Only if you're willing to go." Your fear of being recognised hasn't left you but staying inside all day with nothing to do was even worse. You'd just have to wear the cloak and you'd be fine. "It's been really quiet and I'd love to see Liyue a bit more." Lumine nods her head and looks at her boots. "Can you give me a few minutes to clean up? After that we can go to Third-Round Knockout."
Paimon puts her fist in the air and smiles at you. "Want me to suggest some things to eat?" While you know some dishes, you're unfamiliar with the taste so you take her offer.
By the time Paimon narrowed it down to five dishes, Lumine was ready to go. "Paimon, if you keep talking all the tables will get occupied." Paimon gasps and flies over, dragging you along with her. Your cloak is secured on your shoulders and the hood covers your eyes from the world. "Nothing can go wrong." Lumine pats your shoulder. "It's just a restaurant."
Right. Nothing can go wrong. Yet when you're waiting on the food you can't help but feel anxious. There are a lot more people than you expected. Lumine and Paimon do a good job at distracting you with their conversations but it's only when the food gets set on the table that you relax.
"Paimon did a good job choosing, right?" She excitedly says as she stuffs her mouth full. On the table there stood minty meat rolls, golden shrimp balls, a few jade parcels, and some small dishes to pair with. You were enjoying yourself, but then, halfway though your meal, people started to mutter between each other. Then the first few people left, leaving you to wonder to yourself.
Lumine offered to ask someone whilst you stay at the table together with Paimon. The food was mostly eaten but there were still some bites left. "What do you think happened?" You ask as you look at Lumine who was talking with the restaurant staff. "Probably nothing." Paimon put down the chopsticks and also looked over at Lumine. "See? She looks only a little bit worried…" Paimon's voice trails off into worry.
The two of you watch as Lumine returns. "Some news about the Geo Archon. We should check it out." She grabs a bag of mora and puts the right amount of currency on the table. Her expression is unreadable. "What about y/n?" Paimon wonders out loud. Lumine turns around and calls over the waiter.
As the guy walks over he seems visibly stressed. "Please try to leave the restaurant as quickly as possible. We will hand over coupons to all the customers at the exit as compensation." He picks up the food while talking, giving you no room to stay.
You stand up from your seat and look at the waiter. "What's going on?" You ask. Paimon floats over to Lumine and awaits an answer as well. "Haven't you heard? Rex Lapis has been reborn." The guy's eyes are wide, both with stress and excitement. "Liyue is saved!" He grabs the stacked bowls and plates in his arms. "We must ask you to leave as soon as possible. All citizens are required to see Rex Lapis." He says all while walking away with the plates.
"Rex Lapis has returned?" You mumble over to Lumine. She seems worried as well. The shopkeeper is quick to move you out of the tavern and at the exit you're handed a coupon. Lumine looks over at you "I was there at the Rite of Descension." She whispers, her eyebrows are pushed against each other in confusion. The Rite of Descension, Meaning she had seen the corpse, fake or not-, laying in front of her.
The stranger handing you coupons seems eager to clear the shop so he too can see the big event. "You need to head over quickly to see Rex Lapis being reborn." The people in the street shout as their voices fade mid-sentence due to them running away.
Reborn.
What does that mean? -being reborn? Why would he return now that he finally could retire? Isn't that why he faked his death in the first place? Returning now was equal to returning to his old duties as an Archon. It's like nothing happened.
For a moment everything around you fades away. This is not how the story goes. Was it because of Xiao and the Adepti returning to take over Liyue? –But that doesn't happen either. You hadn't heard anything about the Adepti since you arrived in Liyue harbor.
"y/n." You look up and gaze into Lumine's amber eyes. "This is good news, right?" Paimon as well leans over her shoulder to look at you. "I don't know."
-And this time you really don't.
Already from a distance you can see a crowd that has formed, assumingly around Ninggang or anyone else associated with the Qixing. You had no idea what it meant, 'Rex Lapis; reborn'. With everything happening you can't help but doubt your own ability in remembering the events that should have happened, because you're certain this didn't.
As you look at the people gathering you see familiar faces. Hu Tao, a bit more to the side but still on her toes trying to get a better angle to see what was happening. Was she hoping to bury the dead Archon's body? Xingqui was talking with some unknown people but he nonetheless struck out due to his design. As you got closer you were certain that you caught a glimpse of Ganyu walking around.
Lumine drags you through the group that had gathered. You were in the same place where the Rite of descension had taken place. The same place where Rex Lapis had faked his death, only for there to now be some spectacular reborn ceremony.
"Excuse me!" Lumine forces the three of you through the crowd, "Paimon needs to see as well!" Your floating friend yells out trying to get the attention of the strangers. As both girls push their way to the front, Lumine holds onto your hand, making sure you too would make it. You got a few displeased grunts from the crowd, but you were all too focused on those eyes staring straight into your soul.
Zhongli's eyes.
He was staring straight at you.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 8: CH7 - A new path
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Lumine furrows her eyebrows as she sees Rex Lapis staring in her direction. Only when you tug on her hand she realizes that his gaze was meant for you instead.
There was no doubt at all. Zhongli had recognised you in the crowd, even with your cloak on. You can only hope that he keeps your identity concealed until you can explain that you're not an imposter. Lumine turns her head around. Her body is still shielding most of yours away from Zhongli, yet his gaze stays fixated on you.
Paimon flies closer to the two of you. "I have no idea what's happening." Her voice is barely above a whisper and laced with concern. You turn your gaze from Zhongli to her. "I think he recognises me." With your response, Lumine turns around fully. "I'm certain he does." The two don't register the Archon as a threat, yet both wait to fully trust him. If he thinks you're an imposter, things might turn out bad.
You want to respond again but the crowd goes silent when the Qixing walks forward. Ningguang, next to Rex Lapis, explains the situation to the civilians; Yes, Rex Lapis was seen dead but that was him taking a new form, suited to stay in Liyue harbor instead of Mt. Aocang with the other Adepti. He has taken his place amongst the civilians again.
Ninggang keeps explaining what this change means for Liyue. She has the respect of many and the people are quick to accept her words. For a moment you wonder what Zhongli had done to make her believe this. The crowd mutters, confused yet happy, welcoming back their Archon. You are still holding onto Lumine's hand when someone taps your shoulder. You turn around and look up. Childe waves his hand, smiling down at you. You quickly lower your head to hide your face. "Come on now, comrade. I thought we could trust each other." He whispers down, carefully hiding himself in the crowd.
You turn back to face Lumine who noticed the harbinger as well. "What are you doing here?" She walks further back into the crowd, away from the view of most. Childe seems unfazed. "Wasn't everyone invited to see the new Rex Lapis?"
All four move into the outer circle of the crowd. Childe begins speaking. "Don't you find it suspicious? Why now of all times?" He questions in a playful tone, undoubtedly testing out what Lumine thinks of the situation. She stays silent. "Isn't this a good thing?" Paimon asks. She looks confused, floating between Lumine and you. "I'm surprised as well." You mutter out. There hasn't been a good moment to express your own thoughts about this matter, and with Zhongli recognising you it was hard to keep your thoughts to yourself. Everyone is silent for a moment, listening to Ningguang and Zhongli in the distance.
There was no emotion on Zhongli's face when he looked at you. He was unreadable. Part of you wonders if he's still looking at you, even though you left the crowd. "Well, it seems like your little quest to find the Seven can continue." Childe says after a while.
Lumine looks at you for a brief second. She's happy to continue her quest but it does seem weird. If he was reborn, why would the corpse be there at the Rite of Descension? Why did it take so long for the Archon to publicly announce his status? When she looks at Childe he seems lost in thought, half participating in your conversation and partly listening to the announcements being made.
Lumine crosses her arms. "Let's see how it goes. I doubt I'll be able to speak with Rex Lapis soon." Childe nods, "Let's meet in three days. We can each decide what to do then." His eyes met yours for a second. "I'll be leaving now."
When Childe leaves, Lumine starts to wonder out loud. "You think the Adepti have something to do with this?" You look back for a second. Zhongli's eyes are no longer on you. "I don't think so. Why would they be here?" You answer. Paimon puts her hands on her hips. "Shouldn't we be thankful that we don't have to fight a dragon or something to get answers?" She jokes.
You look at the ground and think. Was it your 'aura' that made Zhongli recognise you? Lumine speaks up, "Let's get back to the inn before someone notices us. The announcements are already over."
Lumine is right. You don't want to wait around for a disaster. Before you leave, you take a quick look over your shoulder.
Ah.
He's staring again.
Lumine had decided to stay at the inn until the meetup with Childe. She didn't take any more commissions since she had enough money from Mondstadt's gratitude, so she took her time to stay with you. Because she kept you company, the three days passed in a blink of an eye.
For the first time since the Rex Lapis announcement, you walk out of the inn. Your cloak is on your head and Lumine is by your side. The streets are back to normal, the Millelith aren't patrolling anymore, and the street vendors seem to be celebrating in the name of the reborn Rex Lapis.
Again, you had decided to meet with Childe in Northland bank. Since he was a harbinger he could easily get a private room to meet you, you knew that. Up till now, he still hadn't told Lumine about his affiliations with the fatui, nor that he was a harbinger, so you kept quiet about it as well.
Paimon hovers next to you. She's excited as always and keeps talking until you all stand inside the bank. Ekaterina welcomes you as usual and asks for you to wait for Childe.
It's not long before he appears from behind the two big doors. He seems cheerful and invites you to move further inside the bank. When you pass Ekaterina she sighs, yet keeps up with Childe's demands. She's no doubt used to his behaviour by now.
Behind the two big doors is a hallway. On each side there are even more doors leading to more rooms, none of them numbered. "It's been so long. You guys were missing out on a lot of information." Childe starts speaking as he heads left inside a room and holds the door until everyone is inside.
The interior of the room resembles a living room rather than an office. There is a fireplace at one side of the wall with a large couch in front of it. There is a small table, as well as bookshelves to fill the empty walls. The room is messy too. On the bigger table there are papers, scattered from Childe's research.
Childe jumps from one side of the room to the other. First grabbing some papers and then sitting on the couch. There is a bottle with clear liquid on the smaller table between the fireplace and the couch, yet no glasses. You assume he drank from it the true way to enjoy fire water.
Lumine moves her hands crossed over her chest and walks over to the couch. "Well?" Childe looks up at her. "Isn't it rude to ask for information before giving any?" He grins, obviously testing the girl. Its silent for a while as Lumine glares down at the ginger, then he speaks up.
"Since you were so generous with your previous information I'll share mine." He grabs the papers and looks over the notes he had made. "There's word of a 'Creator' being seen." You tense at his words, but when you look over at Lumine she acts neutral. "Of course, this is nothing but an imposter. Yet I assume that the reborn Rex Lapis is a cover of the Qixing to not let any more chaos stir up Liyue."
Childe pinches the bridge of his nose. "The Adepti have been silent as well." He looks up at Lumine again and shrugs. "I've asked the Qixing for a visit to the Exuvia, yet they deny that there is one to begin with." Lumine lifts up her eyebrow.
"We saw the Exuvia fall down during the Rite of Descension." She ponders out loud, now thinking to herself as well. "Right." Childe continues. "There is something unusual about the timing. I'm currently trying to get an audience with the reborn Archon myself, but it's harder than I thought."
Paimon laughs at him. "You think you can just walk over to him and ask about this?" Childe stands up from the couch. "I'm a highly valued person, y'know." His hand is on his chest, acting as if Paimon's comment had hurt him.
Lumine looks at you for a second. You catch her gaze and nod at her once. Her eyes move back to Childe. "You think he's a person impersonating the Archon?" She asks. Childe closes his eyes and sighs. He chooses his words carefully. "I think the timing is suspicious."
While the two talk you take a quick glance at the papers that scatter the large table. It's unlike a harbinger to leave information like this around. You see some, what you assume to be, reports from the Tsaritsa. There are some more letters yet nothing sticks out but the seal on the envelopes.
There is a short silence in the room which makes you move your focus from the letters to Childe. "If I can get an audience with this so-called Rex Lapis, I'll bring you as well." He smiles and adds, "So you can ask whatever you need to ask for your quest." The offer is kind, yet he's only out for information about Lumine's quest and her involvement.
Paimon speaks up, "Sure thing. Let's first see if you can get accepted at all." She snickers, not noticing Childe smiling down at her. "We'll see, comrade."
His eyes move to Lumine. "If you have any other information, I'll be easy to find. Ekaterina, the receptionist, will know where to search for me." He temporarily moves his eyes to you. "You too." He says. During this visit he barely acknowledged your presence. It made you glad to not be pushed to reveal yourself to him, especially with his thoughts about an imposter Creator walking around.
"I'll be on my way now." Childe guides the three of you back into the hallway and walks with you outside. "I hope to hear from you soon." He waves as he runs off into the crowd.
Lumine lets out a heavy sigh. "You think he knows?" You ask. She shrugs her arms. "Let's get back to the inn for now."
A few days had passed after the meetup with Childe. For now you had decided to stay inside the inn. There were times where Lumine would go outside for the occasional information gathering or grocery shopping, but besides that, everyone had time to gather their thoughts.
You sit with Lumine by the window. Paimon had already drifted off into a deep sleep a while back, giving the two of you some privacy. It was nice, just talking with her. Lumine had been surprisingly open about her thoughts, unlike you, but you decided to change that.
The rain against the window makes nice background noise, filling the occasional bouts of silence between you two. "Lumine?" She hums in response, "Why do you think I'm the Creator?" You turn your head to look at her. She was sitting next to you on the couch, comfortably holding a cup of tea in her hands.
She thinks for a moment. Her eyes focus on the window, watching the individual drops race down. "When I was in Mondstadt, I already felt your presence. It was more faint back then, but when I met you, it was obvious you were the source of that feeling."
You lean back into the couch, looking at the streets through the window. "I thought perhaps there was a clear reason for me to be here." You grab your own cup of tea from the table in front of you. The steam hits your face when you hold it closer. "Instead of remembering things, I keep forgetting more."
Lumine puts her hand on your thigh for a second, "I'm sure there's a reason." She turns her body sideways onto the couch to face you. "What do you think about the Rex Lapis situation?" You smile and look at her. "Rex Lapis :Reborn?" You grin to yourself, "I think he had other plans when he let the Exuvia fall from the sky during the Rite of Descension."
You blow on the tea to cool it down and take a sip. "Him being reborn wasn't meant to happen," You think back to your meeting with Childe. If Zhongli hadn't chosen to come back as the Archon, the two would likely be good acquaintances by now.
"You think what Childe said was true?" Lumine asks. For you, it's not a matter of whether Childe is right or wrong, it's that you're certain Zhongli wasn't meant to play Archon right now. You look back at Lumine. "I guess."
Last time you openly talked was with Albedo and Kaeya. The two spent the whole day together with you trying to figure out how you came here, why you couldn't remember anything, and how they were going to prove you to be the Creator. You hope the two are alright.
"Somehow I thought I knew how things were going to go.-" You lower the tea cup to the table and sit back again. "It's like the story got messed up." You hear Lumine shuffling next to you. She stays quiet for a second, thinking about the words you chose.
She's staring at the tea cup in her hands. "Like seeing the future?" She looks up gazing into your eyes. Her amber eyes shine compared with your recently dull ones. "Well. Obviously I was wrong so, not really?"
The rain seems to stop and no longer can you hear it tapping on the window. "Perhaps the story did get messed up." Lumine says. It's more to herself than to you, yet her words stick in your mind.
After your conversation, it hadn't taken long before both you and Lumine drifted off to sleep. You two had talked late into the night and woke up once the sunlight rushed into the room.
During the morning, you kept repeating the conversation that happened yesterday in your head. "Perhaps the story did get messed up." -and maybe it really did. But how were you going to fix it? You were already struggling with amnesia for some reason and your identity kept you from interacting with others.
Lumine plops down next to you on the couch. Paimon hovers next to her and settles down onto the couch as well. "What's up?" You ask. The two had left earlier this morning for some grocery shopping and, because you were so lost in thoughts, you hadn't heard them coming in.
"Close your eyes." Lumine smiles. Her hand is behind her back, hiding something you can assume to be a gift. You're a tad confused but close your eyes anyways. You hear Paimon's giggles and some ruffling. Something is laid onto your lap. It's not heavy yet not light either.
You open your eyes and look down. Divinity and The Creator. You grab the book in both your hands and trace your fingers on the golden lettering. 'Limited illustrations by the Calx'
Paimon points at the book and urges you to open it. The first page is filled with titles, each one longer than the previous one. The second page has an illustration of a lone person sitting beneath a dark sky illuminated by golden stars.
You close the book and smile at the two girls. "Thank you. I didn't have the time to search for the book yet." Paimon proudly puts her hands on her hips. "Paimon knew you wanted the book, so Paimon told Lumine when we walked by the bookshop!" She grins at Lumine who gives her a fist bump in return.
Surely with all your free time being inside, you'd be able to finish this book in no time. Who knows, maybe it'll provide some answers as well. Lumine moves her hand on top of yours. "We also wanted to take you outside the city today, if you're up for it?" She smiles fondly.
Gently you squeeze Lumine's hand and nod. "Sure!"
It didn't take long for you to get ready. You put on your shoes and grabbed your cloak. Before going outside you quickly head into the bathroom to fix your hair. You look at your reflection. Once again there is something different about your eyes. You move into the light, but they remain dull.
For now you decide to shrug it off. You fix your hair and move the cloak on top of your head. When you look into the mirror your face is hidden by the shadow the cloak casts. Perfect to stay anonymous.
There is a knock on the door, "Are you okay?" Lumine asks. "Give me one second!" You respond to her. You take one last look at yourself and head outside. Both Paimon and Lumine were waiting by the front door of the guest room. Nothing can go wrong, you remind yourself as you leave the safety of the inn.
When you make it outside you're met by the ever so busy streets of Liyue harbor. Business is booming now that Rex Lapis has been reborn. Ships have been docking again and a new festival was being prepared.
You take a moment to breath everything in. You're sure that Zhongli would leave you alone. His glare had been to scare you off. He must have seen you as an imposter. Otherwise he'd have done more than just staring, right?
A gentle breeze brings a pleasant smell. The cuisine in Liyue was truly delicious. Perhaps you could go to another restaurant with Lumine and Paimon later? "C'mon," Paimon calls out your name. She's already up ahead. "This way!"
Lumine is by your side. She smiles at Paimon and walks over with you. The laughter in the streets calms you down. Paimon too is making sure to give you plenty of distractions by talking. Up in the air you see lanterns connected with strings getting hung between the houses.
It reminds you of a certain festival. Lantern Rite was something you couldn't forget. You had no idea which month it was but the lights in the air gave you some indication that the festival would be held soon. "Have you heard about-"
Your voice trails off as you stop walking when both Lumine and Paimon halt. Your gaze moves from the lights above to Lumine. She's looking straight ahead. And when you do the same, you're looking at Zhongli.
Zhongli's attention is fixed on you. His voice is deep and gentle when he speaks, and his golden eyes are glued onto yours. "Can I invite you over for tea?" He asks. His hand is outstretched for you to take.
The whole city was currently looking at you. With some hesitation you walk over, taking his hand due to the amount of people staring at you. If you'd run away you'd be caught very easily.
You look over your shoulder towards Lumine who remains standing still. "Lumine?" You urge her to follow, which she does. Zhongli's grip on your hand is gentle, feather-like. If it wasn't for the warmth you'd have thought he wasn't holding it at all.
When you walk through the streets everyone makes way for Zhongli as they look at the scene. The newly reborn Archon holding hands with some cloaked person followed by an outlander and some tiny floating human.
During your short walk Zhongli kept quiet. You gazed up at him once, yet he kept his eyes forward, focused on the path. You wondered why he came now, and how he had found you so quickly after leaving the inn. Perhaps the Qixing's informants played a role in this as well.
Once in front of Liuli Pavilion, Zhongli lets go of your hand. The waitress in front of the restaurant opens the door, waiting for her Archon to enter, yet he remains standing still. He holds out his hand towards the door. "After you." You look back at Lumine who still seems just as confused as you.
You walk through the door. Inside you see Ningguang. Her back is facing you yet she stands out; you know it's her. Further into the room you see Xiao who immediately notices you. His eyes meet yours, and he lowers his head in acknowledgment.
Once you see Xiao, you feel relieved. From your first meeting you knew you could trust him, yet you kept the cloak on top of your head. You look back at Lumine and Paimon who walk into the room followed by Zhongli.
His eyes rest on yours, gentle and calm. "Rex Lapis." Xiao calls out. Ningguang now turns around and puts one of her hands under her chin as she looks at the guests he brought in. Her face is neutral yet her silence confirms her confusion.
Zhongli gives a nod to Xiao, who disappears, going off somewhere unknown. "Let's sit down, shall we?" He places a hand on the small of your back as he guides you over to the table.
You can't help but think;
"How the fuck did I end up here?"
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 9: CH8 - Recollecting
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Zhongli unintentionally towers over your sitting form as he pours the tea into your teacup.
"Do you still prefer sugar in your tea?" You tilt your head up into his direction. His eyes are focused on the teacup. Even from up close, you find it impossible to figure out his motives.
"No sugar is alright." You awkwardly mutter out after a second.
You take a quick glance to your right where Lumine sits. Paimon is at her side, hovering and uncharacteristically silent. When Lumine's amber eyes meet yours she gives you a reassuring smile.
Your eyes shift back to Zhongli. He fills his own cup before silently putting the tea kettle down onto the table. Aside from you, he didn't bother pouring anyone else tea.
"Is something not to your liking?" Zhongli asks.
You shake your head. "No, that's not it."
Zhongli has been nothing but kind to you. Does he feel the same thing Lumine does? The 'aura'? You've been hiding yourself pretty well, so you doubt this to be something bad. Still, the formal setting makes you uncomfortable.
Your thoughts are interrupted when Zhongli responds. "I'm glad everything is to your liking." He shortly bows his head in your direction. "And traveler," He moves his attention to Lumine. "I must thank you for safely guiding the Creator to Liyue."
Paimon perks up for the first time since entering the room. She flies a bit higher and proudly places her hands on her hips. "We enjoy having y/n on our journey. We had lots of fun." She sends a smile your way.
"But Paimon is still confused. We saw you dead at the rite of Descension. It's confusing to see you, you know, alive!"
You weren't at the rite of Descension when the 'exuvia' fell down from the sky, but you can imagine the confusion Lumine and Paimon felt.
Ningguang clears her throat, successfully catching everyone's attention.
"Yes." Ningguang places her hands on top of each other in her lap. "The Exuvia at the rite of descension turned out to be an empty vessel." She moves her head in your direction but keeps her eyes casted away. "It took the Qixing a while to confirm Rex Lapis' new vessel."
Zhongli interrupts, "Times have changed – that's not to say my position will." A small smile forms on his face when he looks at you.
The steam from your teacup swirls into the air in patterns. Something seems off about the story. You're unable to reason with yourself why. You shrug it off as nerves.
Paimon starts speaking again, "But Paimon still doesn't know why we're here."
When you gaze over to the side you see Paimon her cross her arms. You have no idea how she has so much social confidence, but you're glad she asked the question before you had to.
Zhongli lets out a chuckle. It's nothing intimidating, on the contrary, it's something warm and familiar. "I simply wanted to catch up with the Creator."
You blink once, and then again.
"Oh, I'm not," You let out an awkward chuckle. "I'm not the creator."
Zhongli's lips curve upwards. "Worry not. I do not wish to reveal you to the public, at least not until you are ready to. That's why Lady Ningguang and I arranged this secret meeting."
Aside from this meeting being anything but a secret, you have to refrain yourself from hiding away. While this is much better than the whole imposter scenario, you're still unsure about being the 'Creator'.
"I know I look like them but,-"
You stop.
Are you the Creator? Surely not right? You don't have any memories about it. Then again- , you"re certainly not an imposter either.
"Can't I be an ordinary person?"
Lumine purses her lips together. She watches the scene unfold before her, unable to say anything to aid you. She feels Paimon at her side stiffen up as well. The simple wish made their gut clench.
Zhongli hums before closing his eyes. "I see." He watches you move in your chair. Your face is hidden behind the cloak. Even after all this time, corrosion will never fade his memories with you.
He moves his palm in front of his chest. You watch a golden glow radiate from the place where his chest would be. A small object seems to materialize in front of him.
The Geo Gnosis rests an inch above his hand. His golden eyes glow when he looks at you.
"Perhaps this will aid you in your journey of recovering your memories." He moves his palm into your direction, and thus the gnosis as well. "Xiao told me about your memory loss."
Your eyes lit up with recognition. Finally, things start to make sense.
Xiao gathered with the Adepti after you left Wangshu Inn. He then informed them that the Creator had returned. After that, they'd talk about their new plans regarding Liyue and the contracts.
But then, when they heard about Rex Lapis being reborn, they must've visited the harbour to see it for themselves. When Xiao found Zhongli, he informed him about his meeting with you, hence him knowing even before his rebirth was publicly announced.
While you expected Xiao to inform Zhongli, you hadn't expected it to be so soon.
You vaguely recall the conversation between you and Xiao.
The gnosis remains in Zhongli's hands, floating in front of your face. "I can't." You look up, there is a slight change in his eyes.
"Lady Ningguang. Hold out your hand for a moment." He moves his hand towards the Tianquan of the Liyue Qixing. She lifts her eyebrow but opens her hand, no questions asked.
When Zhongli releases the gnosis, it falls into her palm. Unlike with Zhongli, the gnosis does not float for Ningguang, and the geo energy dissipates into the air as the golden glow disappears. You move your eyes to the geo Archon, confused.
"The gnosis doesn't activate with just anyone," Zhongli explains. When you look over, Ningguang is gazing down at the gnosis. "I assure you, it will when you hold it." He retrieves the gnosis from Ningguang's grip. She watches intensely as it starts glowing again in his hold.
"Perhaps a demonstration will ease your mind. It surely never hurts to try."
While you don't feel comfortable holding a gnosis, you hesitantly take it from his hands.
There is a rush of elemental power that flows through your entire body, but it disappears as soon as it came. You feel energized in a way that is foreign to you, yet somehow vaguely familiar.
Still though, no memories.
When you look down, the gnosis still glows in your hold. It's brighter in your hands than it was in Zhongli's. It's not the direct answer you hoped for, but enough to make you believe the geo Archon.
"It shines, but I don't feel any different."
You try handing it back but Zhongli puts up his hand. "Keep it. You need it more than I do." He smiles again, "And as it seems, the gnosis needs you as well."
The gnosis is unexpectedly warm against your fingers. The golden light remains bright, even when you close your fingers around it.
Your voice is small but Zhongli still hears it,"Thank you."
It doesn't take long for you to return to the inn. The plans of adventuring outside the city were abandoned the moment Zhongli showed up. Instead, you focus on obtaining your memories. Both through the book and gnosis.
You're currently sitting on the familiar couch in the inn. Lumine is yet to sit down, still preparing something to drink while you and Paimon discuss the recent happenings.
"Paimon thinks it's because he's an archon. That drunken bard seemed to know everything before we did as well." Paimon crosses her arms frustratedly as she hovers closer to you.
"You mean Venti?" You lift an eyebrow. A vague memory of a young boy with braids pops up in your head.
Paimon lets out an excited gasp. "So you remember him?"
"I'm not sure if 'remember' is the right word. I never met him." You shrug and place the gnosis down next to the book on the small table.
"Maybe your memories are returning after all? Bah-" The pixie groans, "Paimon can't imagine forgetting someone like that though!"
A smile breaks free on your face. "Is he scary?" The two girls had spoken fond of the anemo Archon before. You assumed they both liked the god, yet Paimon's current reaction made you think otherwise.
"He's really lazy." Paimon rolls her eyes in a dramatic way before stomping her feet in the air. "He was drunk the whole time and made us do all the hard work!"
Your eyes move over to Lumine when she responds. "You didn't do much either, Paimon." She places the beverages down onto the table.
"That's not true! Paimon did a lot of things. Like… Like protecting you when that mean lady showed up." Lumine sits down on the couch.
"Didn't she turn you into an ice cube before anything happened?"
Paimon pouts and crosses her arms over her body. "It's not fair."
"It sounds like a lot happened." You continue, "Did you find out who the scary lady was?"
Lumine nods. "It was another harbinger." You tilt your head, "Another?"
You remember the meeting with Childe in Northland bank.
"Oh!" Paimon holds her hand up to her mouth as she gasps. "We forgot to tell y/n."
"I'm sure it wasn't a secret. Childe does a bad job at hiding it." Lumine turns her body to face you and Paimon. "He's also a harbinger. But you already knew he was affiliated with the fatui right? You never questioned anything when we went into the Northland bank."
There is a short silence as you think. It makes sense, but why were you having a hard time remembering Childe being a harbinger? Didn't you ask anyone about this before? Maybe you had forgotten again.
"y/n?" Paimon puts one of her small hands on your shoulder. You hum, "Ah, I think I knew about it already. Otherwise, I'd surely have asked about it before." You look over Paimon's shoulder, "I also remember seeing some strange letters when we visited him in his office."
Paimon perks up. "Like, secret letters?" She turns around to face Lumine. "But Paimon gets the impression that it's only long business letters."
Lumine nods her head. "I don't think he's here to check up on the Northland bank alone."
Paimon continues for Lumine in an excited tone, "Oh! What if he also wants the gnosis?"
Your eyes shift towards the geo gnosis on the table. If Childe wants the gnosis you might be in trouble. After all, you had no way of pushing it into your chest like Zhongli did.
"Don't worry y/n!" Paimon proudly smiles. "He can't take it away from you. You're the Creator after all." She gives you a big smile, and when you look over her shoulder you see Lumine giving you a smaller one as well.
"For now try focusing on regaining your memories. If you remember Venti, you're probably closer to finding the answers than you think."
Paimon agrees with a nod, "Paimon and Lumine are both happy to take on commissions to pass the time. We already met the Geo Archon; Paimon is sure Lumine can ask him questions about her sibling the next time!"
Right. You forgot you're on separate journeys.
"I'll read the book while the two of you are away. I'm sure I'll have made lots of progress once you two get back."
You send the two a comforting smile.
You're grateful to both of them for looking after you. Once you regain your memories, you'll have to repay them.
And so, Lumine and Paimon took on more commissions the following days after.
They'd return home with mora, food, and occasionally interesting information. You, as well, had done a lot.
The gnosis was stubborn and kept its secrets to itself, but you almost finished the book. Not that it helped with the memory problem.
You should visit Zhongli again. Maybe calling Xiao would help?
The comforting sounds of rain gently pelting against the window stirs you from your sleep. Yet light still creeps into the bedroom, the grey clouds not enough to truly blot out the sun. It seems you've slept in.
You lift your upper body up from the futon.
Aside from the rain, you hear little to no noise. The sounds of the market and traders outside in the city seemed to have died down, obviously due to the grey weather.
You look to your side. Lumine's futon is empty, and there is no way Paimon could be this silent, so you assume they both are already gone.
You push the blankets off of your body. The room you had rented was very comfortable considering the mora you spent on it. It was spacious, one large room with a few screens dividing the common area from the sleeping one.
With a sigh you lift yourself up. You make your bed and, similar to Lumine, you place your pajamas on top of the pillow.
You sigh. It's weird how much you miss Paimon's chatter in these moments.
When you walk over to the table you see a small note with a pencil next to it. It's addressed to you,
'Good morning, Paimon and I are out on a commission. We bought some freshly baked bread before we left. Paimon ate half of it already, but what's left is yours. We'll be back before sundown. – Lumine'
You place the note back down onto the table. The gnosis rests heavy in your hand. Even after keeping it with you the whole night, no memories resurfaced. You lay the gnosis down next to the note Lumine left you.
With not much to do, you head into the shower.
As you let the water rush over your body, you start to make a new plan in your head. With the gnosis still unable to aid in regaining your memories, you'd have to meet up with the geo Archon again. If not to give it back, then to ask for more help.
It's probably easy to find Zhongli. You'd call Xiao's name once you're done with the shower and ask him to take you to the geo Archon. Maybe before doing so, you'd ask the yaksha for help as well. He served the geo Archon for many decades. Perhaps he knows how to activate your memories through the gnosis?
When you're back into your clothes you lean closer to the mirror.
"Huh…"
Your eyes are indeed worse than before. You remember them turning duller over the past weeks, but now they seem almost transparent.
You lean your body into a few directions, trying to see if it's the light making your eyes weird. The transparency remains.
"I'll have to ask Lumine about this later." You place your fingers under your eyelids, still inspecting the weird change. Aside from your eyes you seem to be alright. Though, you'd definitely feel much better after asking Lumine about it.
"y/n?"
You move away from the mirror. "Lumine?" You reply.
The note had said they'd be back before sundown. It's barely noon, did something happen to them?
You quickly exit the shower and walk into the common area.
Lumine stands at the door opening of the inn. Her hair is drenched and she seems out of breath. Paimon doesn't look much better. Though, Kaeya standing next to them, soaked to the bone, is objectively looking the worst.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 10: CH8.5 - The Cavalry Captain
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Some time ago, in Mondstadt:
Kaeya watches the healer scan his body with their elemental power. Their hands hover over his chest, emitting a soft glow as they check his lungs. The cavalry captain had insisted he'd be alright many times, yet Eula persisted in having him checked out, hence how he ended up in the med bay within the Favonious headquarters.
Whatever happened on Dragonspine, he knew it had to do with the Creator disappearing. After that blinding flash of light, he felt as if he died, only to painfully resurrect moments later. As good as the healers were, they wouldn't find the answer to the ache in his chest. That much he was certain of.
An involuntary shudder washes over his body, making the healer pause and look up with concern.
"Don't worry." He tries to humor the situation, "you can't make me feel worse than before."
Almost instantly, Eula smacks the side of his shoulder and sends him a stern glare. "You've got some nerve joking in a situation like this. I will have vengeance for that."
Despite her words, Kaeya knew she cared, probably too much, considering what he'd done behind the Knights' backs.
"Alright, alright." He lays back against the pillows of the bed and accepts his fate silently.
There was no use arguing and no use talking about the situation, not with the healer present. Any word about what happened, and chaos would ensue.
Mondstadt had been through enough already.
Kaeya and Eula would both keep their silence until they were alone in the med bay.
The healer continues to carefully examine his state with the help of their vision until they conclude nothing was wrong. At least, nothing physical.
In the end, Kaeya got diagnosed with overexertion of his body and mind, with the simple cure of needing bed rest. It's something he despised more than grape juice or people prying into his private affairs, especially with the situation as confusing and dire with the Creator disappearing.
"Well," Kaeya breaks the silence in the medbay once the healer had left. He lays comfortably against the pillows as he looks up at his companion, "I did tell you I felt fine."
Saying that had been a stupid jab at Eula's worry for him. As the words leave his mouth, he instantly regrets them. Kaeya can't place why he's feeling so worked up.
"You might have fooled that healer, but you can't fool me. I suggest you stop lying and be honest with me, or I won't be so patient in the future." Eula's voice snaps back at him, cold and sharp.
He places a hand on his chest. "If there ever is another time where I'll be hiding the Creator from my friends, you'll be the first one to know."
"Do not tell me you actually believe that nonsense!" Eula gestures her hands angrily in the air, " 'The Creator?' How could you be so foolish?"
He frowns. It seems yet another person failed to sense the aura of the Creator.
Kaeya wonders what caused this troubling phenomenon.
He lets out a deep sigh. Even if he wanted to argue back, there was no way Eula would believe him. That, and the fact that his chest felt as if it had been caving in on itself.
Eula brushes a strand of light blue hair out of her face. She seems to have grown calmer, or perhaps simply tired of the same back and forth arguments. "Kaeya, you cannot hope that Amber or I will be able to keep this quiet from Jean."
"I was never planning to."
Eula raises an eyebrow, urging him to continue.
"She already knows. Or so, I assume. There is no reason why Albedo or I would keep silent after what happened."
The cavalry captain watches Eula's expression shift. She first seems to thoroughly inspect him and his own expressions, then, she glances away and mulls about his statement.
When she turns her head to ask him for more, the door is slammed open.
In a fury of rage, a familiar person dressed in red and black enters the rooms like a raging inferno. Red hair frames a face that radiates both coldness and burning hate.
Kaeya had somehow anticipated Diluc, of all people, to come and scold him of all the things he'd done. He just hadn't expected it to be so soon, and in the Favonious' headquarters as well.
" You ." Diluc's voice is filled with resentment.
With the element of surprise on Diluc's side, he's already at Kaeya's side before Eula could interject. An angry glare is glued tightly onto his face. If Kaeya hadn't been laying as pathetically on the flimsy bed, he was sure Diluc would've grabbed him, trying to shake some sense into his brain as he did.
"How stupid could you be." Diluc continues, his tone shifting from anger to disbelief. "Trying to help an imposter?" He lets out a chuckle of disbelief, turning away and back at Kaeya as his mind tries to catch up. "I knew the Knights were incapable, but this truly takes the cake of it all."
Eula steps forward, her arms crossed as she interjects. "Excuse me?"
"Oh please," Diluc turns his attention towards the woman. "You're telling me you weren't there when the imposter ran away?"
"We were busy fighting. Kaeya–" She whips her head towards the cavalry captain as she speaks, "is the one who caused this situation."
Diluc seems to agree with that statement, crossing his arms and closing his eyes for a tense moment. Still, he argues her own actions. "Busy fighting each other over capturing the imposter?"
"No we were–" Eula's words remain stuck in her mouth.
"You were… what…?" Diluc taunts her. He seemed close to bursting into flames out of anger.
It is Kaeya who finishes the sentence for her. "We were busy fighting the other Albedo, though, you seem to know about that already."
Despite the situation, Kaeya's voice holds a teasing tone and he seems comfortable laying in the bed as the two remain equally angry as confused.
"You cannot believe me to trust your or Albedo's words after you so inadequately helped bring yet another disaster to Mondstadt." Diluc seems done with Kaeya. He speaks the next words to Eula instead, "Care to explain?"
She lets out a chuckle, "I don't have to explain anything to you, Ragnvindr."
And because Diluc no longer is affiliated with the Knights of Favonious, she really doesn't have to. This puts the redhead in a tough situation that leads to him being even more frustrated. Red eyes watch as Eula leaves the medbay with confidence and silent pride.
Diluc utters a few profanities as he follows Eula.
One last glare gets sent into the cavalry capitain's direction before the door is slammed shut one final time.
Kaeya sits alone on the bed until he passes out.
A few days have passed since the incident on Dragonspine. The place has been closed off for the time being, with the sole exception of Albedo who remains on the snowy mountain, although unlikely in solitude.
Kaeya had carefully approached the topic a few times with Jean and Lisa, but both had kept their lips sealed, and thus Kaeya was left to speculate what had happened with the doppelganger and the missing Creator.
What connection could the two have…?
Moreover, Kaeya had no opportunity to inspect the situation. While Jean was as forgiving as kind, she too had her limits, and she'd do anything to keep Mondstadt safe and running for as long as she was Acting Grand Master.
"Thought we had it bad, but…" The patron in Angel's Share talks loud enough for the full tavern to hear his story, including Kaeya. "The assassination of the geo archon, or Rex Lapis– whatever , is bound to bring ruin to Liyue Harbor."
Another person laughs heartily, raising a glass in a toast.. "I'll drink to that!"
"Mondstadt doesn't have an Archon either, though." Laughter falters and Kaeya hears a loud smack echo over the general chatter of the tavern.
"Just drink up, asshole."
Whatever brought the cavalry captain to Angel's share, it gave him more information than he could hope for.
A happy coincidence, the first stroke of good luck in days.
"Oh my," Kaeya grabs the half-empty glass of Death After Noon and turns around in his seat. "How unfortunate must I be to hear the news later than you do."
With him facing the group of gossiping patrons, he's able to note that most of them are Fatui. Their masks are all discarded, forgotten at the Goth hotel, no doubt, but they continue to wear their uniform in the tavern. It's likely that they'd been overworked and drank a few too many glasses of wine or beer and had forgotten their loose lips.
"Hey… isn't that… "
Before the group can grow suspicious, Kaeya waltzes over to the table surrounded by Fatui, dragging his own chair with him and inserting himself into the group.
Kaeya smiles, "Now now, I'm just an ordinary costumer." He puts on his best mask despite the increasing pain in his chest. "Though, I know the best gossip before anyone else. Seems like you were ahead of me this time."
One of the more inebriated Fatui members laughs loudly, his belly shaking as he does. "You hear that! This guy thinks he's something, huh?"
"Shut up, idiot!"
"Nu-uh. You've been ruining our fun ever since we started drinking. If you're gonna be such an uptight prick, leave ."
"Whatever. It's your funeral."
Tension rises amongst the Fatui, and it's clear that not everyone has forgotten to keep their mouths shut. Kaeya had to tread lightly if he wanted to prevent causing harm to the diplomatic alliance of Snezhnaya and Mondstadt. But luck seemed to be on his side, and the Fatui member that previously tried to silence the group stood up and left.
Probably the best thing they could do, given their superiors.
Kaeya was only half sorry for the punishment these Fatui would get once he'd gather the intel and share it with Jean.
"How unfortunate." Kaeya smiles as brightly as he can, "Some people just can't seem to loosen up."
The group agrees with him, and he's considered one of them by the time he gives them a free round of drinks. Kaeya no longer has to put in any effort to retrieve the information as it's handed to him on a silver platter.
"So," one Fatuus stares at another, "He was just killed?"
"Fell straight out of the sky. Believe me, Alexey swore to the Tsaritsa he saw it with 'is own eyes."
A fatuus shoves the other nearly out of his seat, "You're lying. You can't just kill an Archon. Don't be stupid."
"But if it's—"
"You think…"
There's a brief silence after the murmurs, and Kaeya instinctively leans closer. The Fatui look at each other and then hang their heads low. The cheerful atmosphere from before has instantly dissipated.
The Fatui seemed to have realized that their superiors might have been involved, something that doesn't seem too far-fetched in Kaeya's eyes.
The cavalry captain makes up his mind and leaves whatever is left of his Death After Noon on the table, making a half-hearted excuse to leave so he can report back to Jean.
Before going to the headquarters, Kaeya stops and thinks that the death of the geo Archon might be too far-fetched to be true. However, with the recent descent of the Creator and their defect aura, nothing seemed ordinary anymore. For the small chance the intel to be true, he'd have to try.
So, he shared everything with Jean. If he were to be caught keeping any information from her at this point, he'd be digging his own grave. And for the slim chance of the news being true, he'd bring in extremely valuable information.
Jean crosses her legs. "We know."
"You know?" Kaeya blinks.
He's stunned.
The Acting Grand Master simply smiles and tells him not to worry, but that only causes the pain in his chest to rise.
Lisa chimes in. "Say, what were you doing in Angel's share during work hours?"
Drinking to chase away the feeling of impending doom,
"Gathering intel, as you heard."
Kaeya leans back into the chair across Jean's. Certainly doing nothing wasn't good for Mondstadt either. Why would Jean choose to ignore the death of Liyue's Archon, especially if she confirmed the news to be true?
The mask of confidence falters and Kaeya's voice turns to something unrecognizable to himself, "I don't think this is good."
"What isn't?" Jean shares a quick look with Lisa before returning her gaze to Kaeya.
"Doing nothing." He sighs and puts his hands on the desk, leaning closer. "I know you don't believe me, really , I don't blame you." He hesitates, "But now with the death of Rex Lapis?"
Kaeya puts his weight on one armrest, leaning with his arm over to the side. He thinks about all the stupid ways he can put this, a way to see the Creator again, but the situation continues to grow more and more complex.
He can no longer act alone.
"Jean," Lisa's voice interrupts the silence. "Perhaps it would be time to send a diplomat to assess the situation in Liyue."
Kaeya can't believe his ears. Was he hearing this correctly?
She continues, "The situation is growing beyond our control and it'd be best to confront this problem before rumors can spiral and cause panic."
The cavalry captain turns his head from Lisa to Jean. Whatever prompted the librarian to come to his aid, he'd be reaping the benefits.
"Oh my," he starts slickly, "That does seem like a good idea. After all, if the Fatui already knows, we should have all the juicy details as well."
Jean sighs, she rubs her thumb between her eyebrows in a helpless way. After a moment, she looks up again.
Her voice sounds exhausted, "So, who do you suggest?"
Lisa chuckles, "Without any cavalry, our captain here might have the most free time on his hands. Especially if he's been caught drinking in Angel's share during work hours."
A small jab in his direction, but Kaeya takes it as a compliment. "Excellent idea, Lisa."
While he shares an equally mischievous glance with the librarian, he hears Jean ruffle some papers. "Okay–"
Kaeya smiles-
" –but only if you take Diluc with you. "
Kaeya´s expression darkens.
"Diluc, really?" he suppresses the disappointment in his voice.
"He was the one who told me about Liyue's predicament, and he is more than capable of handling situations like these."
If Diluc had heard of the incident before Kaeya, it was most likely due to a city lockdown, which might have delayed his business between Dawn Winery and the partners he had in Liyue. This meant Diluc would be going to Liyue regardless of this conversation, and considering Jean's adamant decision, going with Diluc would be better than not going at all.
"...fine."
Jean seems to relax and sends him a warm smile. "I'll be expecting you to act as the Mondstadt's diplomat, keep that in mind. Report to me if you find anything noteworthy."
Kaeya stands up from his seat. "You know I won't disappoint, Acting Grand Master."
When the door closes shut behind Kaeya, Lisa moves to sit in the now vacant chair across Jean. She sends her a warm smile, which fails to bring ease to the Acting Grand Master. Jean throws her head into her hands in a desperate attempt to hide her stress.
"Lisa." The blonde lifts her head, "Did you really think it was wise to send him? Shouldn't we keep this between the four of us?"
The librarian leans back into the chair, crossing her legs comfortably once she's settled, and calmly sighing. "If he stays here, he'll pry until he figures it out." Lisa turns a finger in the air. "And I do believe Diluc would keep a close eye on him for us."
"Still…"
"Don't worry so much," Lisa places her hand over Jean's. "We'll figure out what's going on."
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 11: CH8.7 - the Acting Grand Master
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Some time ago, in Mondstadt:
It had become an oddly frequent occurrence for the Anemo Archon to stand in Jean's office. What's worse, she didn't know if she was the only person in the room to think so.
While she abruptly stood up from her chair, Diluc and Lisa barely acknowledged the bard. Both looked up for a moment, only to focus their attention back on whatever they were doing prior.
"Ah! Well if it isn't the beloved Knights of Favonious. You know, I would've come sooner if I could!" Venti trips as he stumbles through the door. "Ah, I'll never get used to that. Excuse me—" his tone shifts an octave higher before lowering again into an eager voice. "Where are they?"
"Who...?"
"Oh, Grand Master Jean. Of course I mean the Creator, who else would've been able to steal the winds from the Anemo Archon?"
His statement seems to catch the attention of both Lisa and Diluc, although the former was much more slick about it. With all eyes on him, Venti falls silent, looking around in a daze. It is only after he stands still that Jean notices the bottle of wine in his left hand, and the two wine glasses in his right.
"Uhm. Hello?" Venti lets out a bubbly laugh that seems unfit for the situation. "I get it, the Creator must've spooked you more then they did me, but uhm." He holds up the items in his hands. "We got loooots of stuff to catch up on, and I'd rather start sooner than later if I want to wrap up the events pertaining to the last five centuries."
"The Creator…?" Jean hesitantly looks at Diluc and Lisa. She's not sure if she's seeking confirmation more than forgiveness.
Please, for the love of the Archons, pleaselet the imposter notturn out to be the True One.
Venti raises an eyebrow, scanning the room from Jean to Diluc, to Lisa, and back to Diluc, until finally settling on Jean. "Uh, yeah? Did you not welcome them? I can practically feel their energy overflowing this space."
He gestures with the wine bottle around the room, and Jean is certain she'll have a heart attack any minute now.
"The... Creator."
She plops down into the chair, a gesture of defeat, silently resigning herself to the idea that the real deal had been right in front of her this whole time, and heavily regretting how she considered locking them up. As the Acting Grand Master this is bound to cause the reputation of Mondstadt to fall, not to mention her own betrayal towards the Creator of everything.
Venti purses his lips as he watches Jean. he shifts his weight from leg to leg, "Uh-oh. That doesn't sound good."
Diluc (praise his soul) helps to divert the attention from Jean when he speaks up, "You mean, Kaeya was right?" He sounds annoyed and bewildered, "That can't be. Surely the real-"
Diluc stops when his eyes land on the somewhat silly looking Archon. He remembers that he never suspected the Anemo Archon to be drinking in his own tavern prior to the Dvalin fallout. So perhaps if an Archon can mingle with their people unnoticed, the Creator could–in theory, too.
Diluc gestures somewhat difficulty into the air. "Well."
" Well? " Venti mimics him.
"It's a difficult situation," the redhead grunts out, flustered by the fast paced conversation and information thrown at his head. Diluc crosses his arms as a scowl settles on his face.
Venti huffs. "More difficult than dealing with the abyss order and Dvalin when he was corrupted?" he turns around in his place, "surely it can't be that bad. I've only been away for half a week—and I would've been faster if our beloved Creator gave me a notice." He lets out a cheeky laugh accompanied by a wink and plops down into the chair across from Jean. He then carelessly drops the two glasses and wine bottle onto the surface of the desk separating them both. Jean now realizes that the extra glass was meant for the Creator.
The Creator of Teyvat, the one she had thought to be an imposter and nearly banished from Mondstadt.
She pulls her fingers through her hair and faintly prays, "Dear Barbatos–"
"Oh? You're ready to talk now?" Venti responds as he makes himself more comfortable in the chair. While everyone else seemed tense, he appeared unbothered by the whole ordeal. Probably, because he still believed the Creator to be around. Would he understand Jean's misunderstanding if she told him what had occurred?
Lisa's voice chimes over her doom-filled thoughts. "Give her a moment. It's safe to say we're all catching up to the fact that the 'imposter' turned out to be the True One."
Venti furrows his eyebrows. "Huh." New information seems to solve a riddle in his mind. When he speaks next, it's more to himself then anyone else, "I suppose that'd make sense why I'm not able to pinpoint their aura." He then speaks to Jean, "So what did you do?"
It wasn't a question filled with judgement towards her. The tone of his voice was bubbly, as always, and filled with genuine curiosity—though, Jean could feel the concern rise in his words.
"I am not certain what happened before they reached Mondstadt," she starts to pile the events in her mind and decides to soften the blow, "–but, 'the Creator' seemingly appeared out of no where at the gates. No one, aside from Kaeya and Albedo, were able to sense their aura. If the two tell the truth, Kaeya sent the Creator to Dragonspine when chaos began to rise within the headquarters, and only a day later, the Creator disappeared without a trace once more."
Diluc adds to her story, "When I spoke with Eula and Kaeya, they believed they had seen a second Albedo before the Creator disappeared." He hesitates for a moment, "Could this be related? Or could everything be explained with malfunctioning ley lines?"
Jean watches as Venti taps his fingers against the armrest. He slings his legs up and down and nods to himself. "This is certainly a first for me as well. Sure, the Creator has some magnificent powers, but I still can't explain why they'd appear so suddenly, not to mention the strange events surrounding their descent."
He opens his eyes and stares into the window behind Jean. There is an odd expression on his face, one that she can't read.
Venti's next words are once again in a bubbly tone, the earlier melancholy washed away by newfound determination. "Seems like it's our task to uncover what exactly is going on!" Venti jumps up and reaches for the wine bottle and glasses. "One thing I'm sure of is that you met the real Creator. Now, we just need to find out where they disappeared to."
Diluc mutters in a tired tone, "That sounds easier said than done."
Venti shrugs. "Last time we teamed up, we solved the mystery of Dvalin. I'm confident we'll solve this mystery as well! In the meantime, I'll be pulling my own strings. If I happen to find a clue, you're the first ones to know."
He winks at Jean, and the stress morphs into resolve. It's awfully frustrating to have all these events happen without her ever being present. All the clues she has, are told by other people. If she wanted to find the Creator, she will have to rely on the other people in this room.
When the Archon leaves with a wave, she sends a small one back.
"So." Diluc crosses his arms, "What are you going to do?"
Jean averts her eyes before she finds his gaze again. "We cannot ask Kaeya for help. At least not while he's recovering."
From the short distance in the room, Jean hears Diluc release a frustrated sigh. "I'll try to ask my own contacts and see if they've seen anything out of the ordinary. However, I believe it's best to keep this between us three."Diluc rubs his temple. "If this information falls into the wrong hands, who knows what they'll do. The Creator has been gone for five centuries. Whatever is happening now, it can't be good."
In the corner of her eye, Jean sees Lisa nod in agreement. She, too, agrees with Diluc. Jean nods. "Then we'll wait for your return." When the brunette faces turns her head, Jean speaks directly to her. "Can you keep an eye on Kaeya for now? I don't think he'll do anything to our disadvantage, but I have a feeling he won't give up on finding the Creator once he's better."
"Of course."
Lisa lets out a warm chuckle, a sound that suggests she's concealing her own thoughts and opinions on the matter—something she'll likely share once Diluc has left.
"Alright then." Diluc purses his lips and gives Jean a firm nod. "I'll keep in touch."
"Be safe, Master Diluc." Jean calls out to him as he closes the door. Although the situation is less than comfortable, she feels safer knowing she can trust on the people around her.
And so, she waits—until one of her three confidants have found a lead.
When Jean received a letter from Diluc only a day later with an urgent request to meet up, Jean felt her life shatter at her feet. Time seemed to pass antagonisingly slow as she waited for Diluc. In the end, it took only a few hours for him to arrive at her office—it really hadn't made sense for her to worry as much as she did. Still, the urgency he noted in his letter made her feel off about the whole meeting.
Diluc never sits down in the chair across from Jean. A habit, or perhaps he felt too awkward, and considering he had a past with the Knights of Favonius—the latter made more sense. Either way, Jean is forced to follow his pacing form shift around the room. Without Lisa, the atmosphere between the two was more relaxed, and Diluc is able to speak more freely.
"I'm planning on visiting Liyue myself. Because of the wine industry, I could enter the city on business terms even with the lockdown." Diluc speaks his thoughts out loud, and the words are said as a statement. He never directly asks for Jean's opinion or her approval, which he doesn't need, but it still makes her feel out of control.
Jean clears her throat as subtly as she can before easing into the one sided conversation of Diluc which started after he told her about Rex Lapis' passing. "Why don't you take one of the Knights?"
She would have offered to go herself, but with her title, she was bound to Mondstadt. She watches Diluc abruptly stop as she pulls him out of his train of thoughts. His eyes sharpen for a moment, eyebrows lowering, and his mouth opens before quickly changing his mind and relaxing when his eyes meet hers.
He hangs his head low and sighs. "I'd rather not."
"Diluc," He looks up when she calls out his name, "I don't doubt your strengths, but with the return of the Creator and the death of an Archon, this problem might be beyond our own limits. We should not act hastily."
His face sours again. "You're right, and it's exactly why I won't let some rookie Knight waddle into Liyue without any knowledge of what's happening. Whoever you're thinking of sending, he'll only burden me."
Jean purses her lips together, not missing the words he chose. Even without communicating, the two had been thinking about the same person.
He speaks again, "I need you to stay here and keep watch of Mondstadt while I'm gone. I'll be leaving in a few days after I've gotten everything in order." He crosses his arms, eyes softening despite the serious expression on his face, "I will contact you if I know more."
Hopeless and without power, she watches Diluc exit as fiercely as he had entered her office. Nowadays, it seemed common for him to stir fires and leave as he unknowingly lets them fester into an inferno.
It had seemed so easy and petty to send her own battalion of Knights while Diluc was still preparing for the trip, but she knew he was right. Only a few people were suited to go to Liyue, and Diluc was one of the two.
The warm steam of the tea in front of Jean swirls upwards and around the room, spreading a soft floral scent that relaxes her despite the stress that she should be feeling. Lisa, who sits across from her, smiles as she watches the tension elevate from Jean's shoulders. While it wasn't uncommon for her to bring in tea for the Acting Grand Master, it was uncommon for Jean to nearly doze off in the comfort.
"Oh dear," Lisa puts her hand in front of her mouth in a cheeky motion, "If anyone were to enter they'd surely think we'd be slacking off."
A frustrated sigh escapes Jean's lips and the tension returns to her body. "I doubt anyone would. They're all still in the belief of the era of peace. The worst reports I've been getting as of late consist of inebriated citizens making too much noise after dark or cats being stuck on roofs."
Lisa can't help the chuckle escape her lips. Sometimes it felt like she enjoyed seeing people twist and turn in discomfort, but Jean knew better.
"Have you gotten any news on Kaeya?"
The brunette brings her teacup to her lips before setting it down again. "It's hard to tell what he is actually thinking, but he seems to be back to normal. Earlier today, I saw him enter Angel's Share."
"What…?" Jean sits upright and raises an eyebrow. "This early? Isn't he supposed to patrol until the evening? Has anyone taken over his shift?"
Calm and collected as always, Lisa pushes the porcelain cup in Jean's direction, a silent reminder for her to relax once more. "It'll be alright. The abyss order is no longer a problem, and we shouldn't act like there is one either." She tilts her head, and a strand of brown hair falls onto her cheek, "For the people it is important to see the Grand Master at ease."
"Acting— " Jean mutters out, "Acting Grand Master."
The tea in front of her has cooled down to a comfortable temperature, and she brings it up to her lips. It had been a couple of days since she had gotten proper sleep and regular meals. Perhaps Lisa had been right, but with Diluc leaving the city tomorrow, she continues to feel restless.
With only Lisa in the room, Jean lets her body slack in the chair. Papers that were due had been pushed to the corners of her desk, making place for the two, now empty, cups of tea. There was so much to do, but everything felt insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
These moments of silence are the only thing keeping her sane, and she appreciates how Lisa seems to gift it to her every day. If the world were more forgiving, it'd given her more time to rest, alas everyone seems to enter her office in a whirlwind nowadays.
As the door is slammed open, Jean fumbles to make herself look presentable.
Out of all people...
"Kaeya?!"
The Cavalry Captain skips any greeting and goes straight to the point as he closes the door behind him. "I have some valuable information." He walks closer, standing upright next to Lisa, who seems too immersed in her book to acknowledge him. He continues, "I know it might seem like a false rumor, useless gossip—if you may," His voice falters for a second, his smile falling before reappearing, "but if the news is true, it'd give us an edge."
Lisa continues to hold her book up, but Jean can see how her eyes have moved up. While she appears unbothered, she is most certainly curious about this tidbit.
Jean watches him carefully. "What news?"
He leans in closer, his voice lower, careful. "Some Fatui were talking about the passing of the Geo Archon."
From the inside, Jean feels a wave of relief washes over her. When he had entered the room in such an unsuspecting way, she had expected yet another big problem to be shoved into her lap.
She crosses her legs and inhales sharply as she looks up at him. "We know."
"You know?" His expression turns into genuine shock, something many people will never see on Kaeya's face.
From the corner of Jean's eye, she can see Lisa resist a chuckle. "I assume you didn't get this information from the streets? Say, what were you doing in Angel's share during work hours?" Her forest green eyes move up to him and he dramatically puts a hand on his hip.
"Gathering intel, as you heard. Though, it seems to be old intel for you."
Kaeya leans his hand onto Lisa's chair before he shifts his weight once more. He tries to hide it, but with the confirmation of the intel being true, he is filled with more questions than answers. And instead of asking any, he dances around it.
"I know you don't believe me, really, I don't blame you." He stops for a moment, putting his hand on his chest, "But now with the death of Rex Lapis? Something must be wrong."
Jean remembers that he still believes that he and Albedo are the only ones to feel the Creator's aura, and thus their identity. If he hadn't acted on his own earlier—had he known about Venti—she might've told him.
Before she can do anything, Lisa swiftly acts out and calls out her name. Jean hums, listening to what follows, "Perhaps it would be time to send a diplomat to assess the situation in Liyue," and the reasoning she gives afterward forces Jean into a corner.
Kaeya, too, joins in to further pressure her. It is after Lisa continues to push Jean, suggesting to send him, that she finally gives in—hoping her beloved librarian has more than an impulse in mind.
"Okay," Jean watches Kaeya's eye brighten, "but you need to take Diluc with you."
The smile on his face falters. "Diluc, really?"
"He was the one who told me about Liyue's predicament, and he is more than capable of handling situations like these."
Perhaps Lisa made the right move to push her in this direction. She still felt unsettled with Diluc leaving on his own. If Kaeya were to go with him, he'd be prevented from doing anything reckless by himself, and in return, Diluc would keep an close eye on Kaeya.
While it might seem like a punishment to both, it would've been the best course of action for Jean. She watches as Kaeya starts to give in, uttering a 'fine' in agreement.
With a lighter feeling in her chest knowing Diluc would at least not be alone, she asks Kaeya to keep contact, just like Diluc would. If she couldn't investigate herself, she would have to rely on others, and two had been better than one in this case.
When Kaeya finally shuts the door, Jean looks back at Lisa who moves back into the chair across from her. When her bright eyes meet Jean, she is sent a warm smile. It is supposed to ease her, but doubt eventually settles in her mind regardless.
"Did you really think it was wise to send him?" Jean hopes for a simple 'yes' in reply.
The librarian leans back into the chair, crossing her legs comfortably once she's settled, and calmly sighing. "If he stays here, he'll pry until he figures it out." Lisa turns a finger in the air. "And I do believe Diluc would keep a close eye on him for us."
Jean sighs. "Still…"
If there was something wrong, would Kaeya suffice with Diluc?
"Don't worry so much," Lisa places her hand over Jean's. "We'll figure out what's going on."
When a soft breeze enters her office, Jean is reminded of someone.
"Have you heard anything of Venti?" Lisa asks.
She shakes her head. "If what he said about his power still counts, it might take a while."
If she thought too much about it, it seemed as if the world itself was trying to prevent its people from finding out what was true and what was not.
"Should I brew some more tea?" Lisa asks at last.
Jean nods, her previous thoughts forgotten in the wind.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 12: CH9 - Gnoses
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Kaeya stands in the doorframe. He is out of breath. You watch his chest rise and fall rapidly, his expression twisted into distress, which is a strange thing for a supposedly joyful reunion.
"Kaeya?" You watch a drop of water fall from his navy blue hair onto the wooden floor below. "I don't understand… What are you doing here?"
As you gaze at him, his expression softens. His gritted teeth relax, making his mouth fall open, and his eyes soften as he stops furrowing his brows. He radiates stress, yet you can still sense his usual warm and inviting aura.
A grunt escapes his lips and you watch him struggle to get any words from his mind out of his mouth.
Worry now flashes across your face as you turn your head to look over at Lumine. "Did something happen?"
Aside from Kaeya, the Cavalry Captain from Mondstadt being in Liyue , she too seemed distressed when she first opened the door. Her golden eyes make contact with yours before they move over to the side. She stares at something slightly to the left of you. When you follow her gaze, your eyes meet the gnosis standing solitary on the table.
Without any thought, you're reaching your hand forward to the potent object, securing it in your seemingly powerless hold before returning her gaze.
The gnosis hums a low tune throughout your body. "Are we in danger?"
Lumine quickly shakes her head. "No, no. We're fine." With the flick of her wrist she turns the handle of her sword, dissipating it into elemental particles that shimmer in the air before disappearing. She continues, "Nothing happened."
"But Kaeya?" With confusion, you gesture your free hand to him. The whole ordeal seemed too strange for her answer to be 'nothing'.
"He…" Lumine trails off as she looks up at the Cavalry Captain.
He still hasn't said anything at all. Not a 'hi!', not a 'how have you been? Last time I saw you we were about to get into a fight on Dragonspine.'; nothing. And when you start to think about it, you're unsure whether you prefer the silence over the inevitable explaining you'll have to do.
"He had a long journey," Lumine says as she gives him a pat on the back. "I think he needs a shower and some dry clothes before he'll be able to explain everything."
"Right."
You look over at him. If only you could tell him he's awaiting a much worse explanation from your side than he'll ever be able to present himself. Nonetheless, a smile finds its way onto your face as you watch your familiar companion move through the room.
Kaeya was able to salvage his spare clothes from his drenched backpack—which probably has seen better days. You admit he does appear to be in a better state once out of the shower. You had only traveled long distances once with Lumine, and his journey from Mondstadt city to Liyue harbour was much longer than the one you made. Perhaps he'd been overwhelmed instead of distressed.
As you observe him, he notices your fixated gaze on him and he sends you a toothy smile, one which you return with joy. "You look better."
"You too." He replies.
You're unsure of the meaning behind his words. When you try to think about it, your mind blanks. Had you really looked worse in Mondstadt? All you can remember is the cold welcome you had gotten, so perhaps he meant you looked more relaxed?
For a while, you can't quite grasp your head around the situation, and you're not sure why. If anything, with your dull eyes and your skin seeming to fade into transparency, you should look worse.
Your eyes follow Lumine as she walks across the room. Once she reaches your side, she takes a seat on the couch next to you. On her other side, Paimon stops flying and plops down with a soft thud. The pixie had been quiet when the three first came back, but she's returned to filling the air with her usual chatter again.
A high-pitched voice interjects the silence.''Paimon knows everyone is relaxing, but Paimon is still confused. We know that Kaeya was in Liyue as a diplomat to check up on local business, but that doesn't make sense. Why would the Acting Grand Master send Kaeya after Rex Lapis returned?"
Kaeya crosses his legs and sends her a teasing smile. "What can I say? Word about the geo Archon's death spreads faster than his revival.'' He twirls his hand into the air, "When I was on the road, rumors had already begun to circulate. With new information but no visual confirmation of it, I wouldn't have been able to return to Jean, would I?''
"Paimon knew that!" She huffs and crosses her arms over her chest.
You catch a fleeting moment of eye contact between Kaeya and Lumine. With the latter next to you and the former on the loveseat across, it's inevitable, yet you refrain from pointing it out.
An unsettling feeling arises in your chest.
You feel left out.
After a moment longer, you clear your throat. "So nothing happened after we got separated on Dragonspine?"
Kaeya's eyes move from your figure over to your Lumine once more. Despite being happy to see him again, neither of you had a chance to say goodbye when you suddenly ended up in Liyue. And now he's here, sharing hesitant glances with your travel companions while everyone refrains from giving you the full story of what had happened in your absence.
"To be honest, you certainly gave Albedo and me a scare when you disappeared. Admittedly, it took a while to convince Eula to calm down, but once Albedo's doppelganger left, we all dropped our weapons to figure out what had happened." Kaeya sighs and shakes his head. "Not that it made much sense after. But… I was able to feel your aura. Though I wasn't able to pin down where you went, I knew you were alive. And for the first few days, that was enough."
"Wait, a doppelganger ?"
"Yeah," Kaeya tries to smile confidently but he ends up cringing instead, "We let Albedo handle that one on his own."
"So the Acting Grand Master is not mad for you hiding me?"
Kaeya locks eyes with you, his gaze strong and unwavering. He sends a warm smile your way. Despite the tension from before, you feel your heart skip a beat. "I am thankful, but please don't worry about me, dearest Creator."
You feel the weight of the gnosis in your pocket. It suddenly feels like a heavy burden. For a moment, you felt yourself again, but with the way Kaeya said it, you have to believe his words; you are the Creator.
"Woah. Paimon suddenly feels very grateful that Paimon didn't give you an ugly nickname." You watch Paimon shiver as she imagines it. "Though we've already met a god, the Creator of everything seems much more powerful."
A laugh escapes your lips, breaking the short silence. "What nickname would you have given me?"
"Well…" Paimon buckles under the pressure of your curious gaze. For a moment, she intensely thinks about it, only to shake her hands defensively in front of her figure right after. "Paimon obviously can't say it!"
Lumine taps Paimon's shoulder, throwing her off balance. "And this is why you shouldn't give every single person you meet an ugly nickname."
"Paimon can't help it!"
The warm sound of infectious laughter reverberates through the room. Kaeya holds a hand to his stomach, the eye without the patch closed. As he struggles to compose himself, his victorious smile radiates, casting a warm glow across the room. "Seems you've found your place here quite seamlessly."
Paimon huffs, arms crossed. "We tried to tell you." Her expression sours, "But Paimon thinks Lumine would've been worried as well if she had many bad dreams like you did."
Your eyebrow raises before they settle into a frown. "Bad dreams?" You turn your head to Kaeya who looks guilty. "You've been unwell?"
"Don't worry." Lumine cuts in and a sigh of relief echoes through the room. "A lot has happened these past few weeks but I promise you that Paimon and I will keep you safe. Simply focus on getting your memories back. Afterward, all should be better for everyone."
Lumine speaks rationally but her promise doesn't sit well with you. Ultimately, try as you might, there was no counterargument against her. Even as the Creator, with your remaining memories slipping through your fingers, there was nothing you could do.
Seeing the outlander's determined gaze, you find yourself unable to mirror the same resolve. As thoughts circulate, you start to feel pressure build up in your mind, trying desperately to cling to the last memories of your identity.
"I must say, I've been quite curious." Kaeya saves you from your thoughts as he speaks out to you. "You seem to have a more exciting story to tell compared to mine. Meeting the geo Archon and simultaneously reviving him after he fakes his death just because he wants to be with you? Now that's a headline."
"It's less exciting than it seems. It might be a long and boring conversation."
Kaeya crosses his arms and makes himself comfortable in the lovechair. "We've got all the time in the world, my dearest Creator."
After Kaeya prompted you to talk about your adventures, you rambled for nearly two hours. Not that he ever seemed to mind your neverending word vomit. Throughout your one-sided catching up, he kept an inviting smile on his face, only ever interrupting you to ask questions that got you talking for even longer.
Lucky for you, with the rain continuously pouring outside there wasn't any rush for Kaeya to leave. For a moment you could let all your worries out. It was a nice change of pace from glaring at the gnosis and hoping it'd give you back your memories in due time.
You move in your seat. "Are you staying in Liyue for long?"
Kaeya inhales sharply. He lowers his head, causing the curtain of his bangs to cascade over his face. "While I'd love to be at your side for longer, my ride back to Mondstadt is leaving tomorrow and I still have business to take care of."
A silent nod conveys your understanding. While you weren't surprised at his answer, you had hoped he could aid you in your quest to recover your memories. His presence alone had been enough to make you feel at ease during these distressing times.
"Oh?" Kaeya smiles playfully. "You look at me as if this is goodbye."
"It's not?"
"I certainly hope not." He fixes the strands of hair that hang in front of his covered eye. "Besides, it is fate that has led us together all this time. I have the feeling that I'll see you again sooner or later."
You smile to yourself. "I wouldn't mind that."
After giving you a firm nod, Kaeya stands up from the lovechair. He stretches both of his legs and then moves his head to face Lumine. You're unable to capture their expressions from your position but you witness them nod once—seemingly in agreement, before returning their attention to you.
Kaeya speaks up first, letting out a laugh between words. "I better head out before my ride gets upset."
The pixie hovers closer, "Paimon was wondering, who took you to Liyue? Paimon doubts anyone would willingly visit this chaos. It must be someone important, right?"
"Some people would argue his importance in this situation, but yes. You know him. A certain redhead we're both familiar with had to check up on business after his connections got shut down. And I won't say no to an opportunity where I can steal a few bottles of wine in the shipment he's making."
"Oh!" Paimon realizes something. "You mean Diluc? He is the only winemaker with red hair that we met in Mondstadt."
"And basically the one to own the entire industry there," Kaeya states playfully. He turns his head back to you.
A torrent of emotions engulfs you, a tumultuous mix of grief, joy, fear, resentment, bliss, and emptiness,—each of them hitting harder than the last.
It disappears as quick as lighting strikes, leaving you to doubt if these emotions were real or a figment of imagination.
Kaeya speaks again, pulling you back into the presence. "Good luck with everything. I know you'll figure this out, whatever 'it' might be." He then looks at Lumine, "I fear you'll have to be better at protecting them than I have. Be safe, alright?"
The traveler meets his gaze, giving him a reassuring nod that acts as a silent promise.
Before closing the door, Kaeya sends each of you a wave. A bittersweet feeling swirls in your stomach as you bid him goodbye. "Safe travels, Kaeya."
Paimon, too, waves at him as the door closes.
"Bye Kaeya!"
Lumine seems different ever since she returned with Kaeya. Something is off. She seems worried.
Paimon, on the other hand, seems more cheerful than before. She clings to your side whenever she's allowed to and has spent the last hour discussing all the things you should do together after you regain your memories.
You don't have the heart to tell her that you fear it might never happen at this point.
"So… What do you want to do next? Paimon saw how much Kaeya's advice seemed to help you. Maybe you needed the short break from the gnosis."
Right, Kaeya did give you advice on the matter.
You look down at the gnosis in your hand. Kaeya had never seen one before, which made sense, but it took you some effort to explain what it was without making things complicated. Such a small object holds such a great power. It's ridiculous.
He turns his eyes from the gnosis back to you as he starts speaking. "Why don't you ask Rex Lapis himself? After all, he is the best person to seek answers from. As much as I love Mondstadt, I fear our Archon is as free as its people, so I can't advise you to come back with me on a journey to find the lost Barbatos."
You remember how your mind spun at his words. For some reason, his advice seemed so familiar. Even now, you don't doubt you had heard it before and had simply forgotten. With memories slipping in and out, it's hard to make out what you did and didn't already do.
Then, you recall Zhongli. Or, Rex Lapis as you should say. He gave you the gnosis, something you supposedly had given him in the past.
Was he right to put his faith in you?
"I think I'm afraid of disappointment. Zhongli—I mean Rex Lapis—he looked at me with so much confidence… as if I could save the world if I wanted to and yet I'm unable to remember anything about myself." You look down at your hands. "I'm afraid his belief in me might be misplaced. What if I'm a fake after all?"
Kaeya was quick to respond. So quick, your doubts washed away with his words. "I assure you, you're not."
He had moved his hand on top of yours, the gnosis now engulfed by both your hands and one of his. If he felt the vibrations from it, he did a good job of hiding it. The suave smile he sends you floods your brain with shortlived memories, enough to last a lifetime of him by your side.
Then his hand squeezes, and he speaks again. "I might not worship the geo Archon, but I'm confident he'll answer any questions you'll have."
The gnosis is currently on the table. The moment Kaeya left, you put it down and away from yourself. Its glow is dim once you're out of reach and you no longer feel its energy pulse through your body. It's a relief.
Maybe you should arrange a meeting between you and Zhongli. It's not like you hadn't thought of it before. But the question remains; how? You weren't ready to expose yourself to the public as long as you didn't have answers, so how could you contact him discreetly?
Lumine finally decides to enter the conversation between you and Paimon by sitting down next to you. She seems hesitant, and it takes her a moment to voice her own opinions. "If you're not sure what to do next, we can always wait a few more days. There's no need to rush this."
You want to agree with her, you really do, but you know you're running out of time.
You can feel it slipping away while a feeling of impending doom nestles in its place.
"I know I'd want to meet the geo Archon again. Last time I was overwhelmed and I had no idea how to even talk with him, but now I'm prepared. I'm sure I'll be able to get answers this time."
"Paimon is so excited!" She floats up before hovering down again. "It seems like you finally know what to do to get your memories back."
You let out a breath of air you had been holding on to. "I don't, but Rex Lapis will."
"So you're meeting him again?" Lumine asks.
You nod. "I'm not sure how to get his attention though. Last time he made a big spectacle. I hope to avoid that this time to preserve the little privacy I have left."
"Paimon is not sure who to ask either. But maybe Paimon and Lumine could ask the Qixing for you!"
You look at Lumine. She seems less keen on this plan and offers something else after a moment of thinking. "We can go tomorrow morning together before crowds begin to form. This way you won't be alone and you'll immediately be able to meet Rex Lapis when we ask the Qixing for an audience."
"Are you sure I won't cause a commotion?"
"Paimon and I have been in the city lots of times these past days. Usually, crowds start to form at eight in the morning." Lumine looks up at the clock in the room. She seems to calculate something in her mind. "The Qixing most certainly wakes before the common citizens do. If we head out right before the sun starts to rise, we will be fine."
You nod to yourself. It sounds like a good plan. With Lumine by your side, you will feel safe enough, and you'll be wearing your trusty cloak, so you agree to her plan.
"It's already so late. Paimon didn't expect Kaeya to stay for as long as he did. Seems like he's fond of chatting, as usual." She states in a dramatic tone which makes you laugh.
"Maybe, but I enjoyed the reunion. I feel more certain about myself. I'm not sure why though."
"You know," Lumine hesitates, "You can talk to us as well if you need it."
There's an underlying disappointment in her words. You're not sure if it's directed to you or herself, but she makes a fair point. In these past few weeks, you haven't made the best effort to properly ask her for help when you needed it, even when she had been ready to set aside her own mission to aid you. You hid your troubles away, which might've only made her more worried as a result.
You look at your hands. They feel distant from you and you can see the floor through your skin. Seems like that hasn't changed.
Tomorrow you'll properly thank her for all she's done. Hopefully, when you meet Rex Lapis all the missing puzzle pieces will fall in place and you'll be able to recognize yourself again.
A yawn echoes through the room. "Well. Paimon is heading off to sleep. After all that talking and running around, Paimon can barely stand. If you need Paimon, wait till morning!" She lazily rubs her eyes one last time and then flies off, assumingly to sleep.
"You should sleep too if you can." Lumine says. "Tomorrow is a big day if all goes well."
A sigh escapes your lips. "I hope so."
With a swift but calculated motion, you grab the gnosis from the table and stand up from the couch. Familiar energy pulses vibrate through your body, but instead of making you feel alert and awake, it soothes you and puts you in a relaxed state.
"Goodnight, y/n."
You put your last remaining energy into a smile for Lumine. "Goodnight."
You don't quite remember waking up. Hell-, it's still pitch dark when you stand outside of the main exit to the inn, ready to confront an Archon for answers. However, it would undoubtedly turn into another tea party if it were up to Zhongli.
The only comfort you get this morning comes from the energy flowing from the gnosis into your body. It hums and cradles the nerves inside your chest. Once again, you look back down for the so-manyth-time since stepping outside. And once more, the glow of the gnosis is concealed by your cloak.
You just need to keep it safe for a while longer. A low hum echoes through your mind in agreement, and you squeeze the gnosis just a tad tighter to your body.
A voice squeaks over your loud thoughts, "Paimon isn't sure where we should look first. Maybe we could ask the people at the docks for some information? They always seem to know a lot."
Lumine huffs out a sarcastic laugh. "Word travels faster to the Qixing than we'll find it. All we have to do is walk around the harbor and wait."
"Do you think it'd be that easy?" You reply.
"Yes. Even before, the Qixing is widely known to have eyes everywhere. And with the Creator walking around in their domain, it's only natural for their gaze to be fixed upon us."
As the three of you depart from the inn and further into the harbour you find yourself growing more anxious. There are only a few people visible on the streets. Most of these people are setting up shops or stalls to prepare for the crowds that'll inevitably suffocate these streets within mere hours, but it's not the people who make you nervous. It's the festive decorations that have been put up.
More than once, you realized it had been a celebration for the Creator, so you can only hope no one will recognize you while your face is pasted on every corner of Liyue.
Paimon, who's been floating next to you, turns her head to the side. "Paimon thinks you don't have to worry. Remember the lady who was with Rex Lapis when he gave you the gnosis?"
You nod. If you hadn't been as caught up in your world you probably would've spent more time observing her, but it was hard to forget a face like hers. She looked familiar.
"Well, she's the Qixing's Tianquan, Ningguang. From the Jade Chamber above, she is aware of every confidential meeting, every private conversation, and every new visitor to the city! A storyteller once told Paimon that she enchanted the Jade Chamber in a way that allows her to eavesdrop on everyone in the city's private conversations."
Paimon visibly shudders after her own story. She wraps her arms around her body as she floats forward. "Though Paimon hopes that the last part is wrong. Anyways, she'll surely find us like the traveller said."
"Not to mention the geo Archon himself," Lumine adds. "It's only a matter of time. We just have to be confident it's either one of them noticing us, and not the Fatui."
As the three of you continue to walk through the harbor, you notice that Lumine never takes a shortcut and actively goes out of her way to remain in the public eye. A few people already recognized her and have waved in her direction, greeting the traveller and Paimon as they pass the stalls that seemingly appear out of nowhere.
While it makes you uncomfortable, you realize Lumine is doing all of this on purpose. She's actively putting herself in the spotlight while making sure you remain in her shadows. All to get the attention of the people you've been trying to reach.
And while Lumine had mentioned the Fatui before, you had foolishly forgotten any enemies you could've made during your stay in Teyvat. After all, it wasn't long ago that a whole nation had decided you were an imposter and tried to cause an uproar because of it.
Perhaps your comfort had been the exact reason why someone was able to grab hold of your arm and force your body into the dark ally.
You hear Paimon yell before you can, the sharp movement of a sideways pull makes you feel as if you're being dashed forward and successfully takes the breath out of your lungs, making you unable to scream for help.
A hand gently but firmly replaces its hold on your forearm. It guides you to the side and you're certain you'll fall—until you don't. For some reason, your attacker tries to steady you, making sure you don't tumble forward or hurt yourself.
Your heart races against your ribcage and your breaths are shallow and fast. One moment you're close to feeling safe in public and then you're back into danger, or so you assume.
You blink a few times, slowly getting adjusted to the darkness.
"Xiao?"
Dark hair with teal undertones frames a pale face that homes a serious expression. Out of everyone, you hadn't expected to see him today. While the situation he put you in was questionable, you trusted him.
His golden eyes move over your form until they hastily land on Lumine who now stands at the front of the entrance to the alley, her swords sheathed and appearing equally as confused and alarmed as you by the situation. She takes a step forward, hesitating to attack but determined enough to keep you safe if needed.
"You're being followed." Xiao's warning is directed towards Lumine and his voice is a tone colder than it used to be in past conversations—there's an unfamiliar sharp edge underneath his words. Xiao eyes something you can't see.
You finally register his words.
"Wait what? Who? "
"The Fatui." Lumine spats the words out, catching on quicker than you do. Her voice is close to venom and she turns her body around to face the assumed stalker. Because of her reply, you're certain she already knew the identity of the one following her.
You try to turn your head towards the scene but with the way Xiao holds you, it's impossible to fully capture what's going on—and more importantly—who the person might be. You rely on your hearing to fill in the blank spaces.
As you focus, you hear footsteps rapidly approaching. "Wait. Why would anyone,–" You struggle in Xiao's protective hold, still trying to turn your head, and unlike what you're willing to do, Xiao spends no time waiting to see who comes around the corner.
Your vision darkens. It's pitch black for a moment, and then a sharp light blinds you. You instinctively grip Xiao's arm for support, and in return, he holds you closer to his body.
Teleporting three times ever since arriving in Teyvat, you've grown accustomed to the feeling. Still, it takes you a second before your surroundings stop spinning.
"Xiao, you need to go back." With a sense of urgency and desperation you look around, noting both the absence of Lumine and Paimon through your spinning vision. Alarm seeps through your words, "You need to bring me back."
The Yaksha gapes and then closes his mouth. He's holding out his arms as if he's waiting for you to fall forward, or to comfort you, you're not certain. Either way, he's not helping you in this situation—he is not helping Lumine or Paimon.
"Please, Xiao. If the Fatui were following us it'd be my fault."
A mocking laugh echoes through the room. "I highly doubt that." The feminine voice sneers and you feel the room grow colder. As the woman continues to talk, you hear her smile through her voice. She continues to mock you. "Why, our Creator? Because it was I who ordered them to stop chasing your little friends. On behalf of the Tsaritsa, of course."
You turn away from Xiao and towards the platinum-blonde woman standing next to Zhongli. Behind her, you see two people in what you recognize as fatui clothing. You take a moment to look her up and down. Her stance radiates confidence to a degree where it borders arrogance instead of intimidation. Her blond hair falls over her right shoulder and a black mask covers the same half of her face. When your eyes move to inspect her clothing, you first notice the elegant dress that morphs from a white color to a mix of pale brown and greyish color. It hugs her figure and it stands in contrast with the crimson-red colors of her sleeves, and what you assume to be, the cape that hangs over her shoulders.
It is only after you're done with looking her over that you realize the cloak had fallen from your head and thus had revealed your own face. Light grey eyes are busy inspecting you in the same way you inspected her, though she seems to be far quicker with making her judgment. In one quick swoop, she eyes your character before her eyes remain stuck on your torso.
"So that's where the gnosis went." The woman chuckles once more and you intuitively hold the small object closer to your figure, desperately trying to shield it away.
"Relax, Creator ." She calls out your title in a mocking way, "The Tsaritsa already called everyone back. I no longer have use for it."
"Who are you?" You spat out in response to her sardonic jab.
Her face changes at your question, and her expression is unlike anything you've seen from her in the past minute. Your words had genuinely amused her.
"Never heard of the Fatui Harbingers before? I must admit, I'm a bit embarrassed." Her confidence replaces any kindness or pity you might've seen in that short moment of genuinity, and you frown in response.
Xiao shifts behind you and it's a hard reminder that you weren't alone in the room. Your eyes glance over from the woman to Zhongli, who lightly tilts his head in response to your recognition.
"La Signora," He lifts a hand and gestures it towards the woman next to him. "Is the Eight of The Eleven Fatui Harbingers. They are acquainted with the Tsaritsa, or as you know her, the cryo Archon."
Your mind gets stuck in a moment of stupid clarity.
Right. I am the Creator. I should know the Archons.
And despite your better judgment, you ask the Harbinger;
"The cryo Archon, no–, the Tsaritsa. Do you… does she know about my memories? Are you here to help?"
The eyes of La Signora widen and you realise you startled her with your question. Of all things, she had not expected this. That much was obvious to anyone in the room.
Like La Signora, the two Fatui guards behind her stiffen up. They share a glance of confusion as they remain on one knee behind the Harbinger.
"Your… memories?" The blonde woman in front of you squints her eyes. Her voice is uncertain and she seems to test the words in her mouth.
While her smile remains, you can sense the mask behind her faux confidence as she ponders over your question about your lost memories.
You're glad to know neither Zhongli nor Xiao had mentioned your memory problems to her. At least they give you control over who to share it with and who not, though, that raises the question of why she was here originally.
You turn your head to Zhongli. You feel like a fish out of the water so you instinctively try to chase comfort in his presence. "We were searching for you. Well, technically we were searching for the Qixing to contact you– what I'm trying to say is ." You take an inhale so the following words don't come out in the wrong way. "I wanted to talk to you about, well, everything."
Zhongli nods urging you silently to continue without a care for the others in the room.
"I've been trying to get my memories from the gnosis but after spending literal days staring at it in frustration, I feel like it's only getting worse." I feel as if I'm losing my mind.
You clutch the gnosis a bit tighter in your hand. Soft vibrations echo through your body and it steadies you.
You speak with more confidence, "I want to know why I'm here. I want to know who I am."
Zhongli takes a calculated breath, "I'd prefer it if we were to discuss this in a more private setting, your Grace. That is if you don't mind."
You shake your head. "Not at all. I probably shouldn't've assumed the Harbingers or the Tsaritsa to know."
With Zhongli's request for privacy, you wonder if the woman had been better off not knowing about your situation. In the corner of your eyes, you can see thoughts race behind her cold eyes. Either way, word is bound to reach the Tsaritsa sooner or later. Your memories won't become better without a solution, so you're not bothered by this revelation. If anything, it might prompt the cryo Archon to answer your questions and recover your memory if possible.
"La Signora." Zhongli addresses the woman with an intimidating undertone. She snaps out of her thoughts and her confidence returns in the blink of an eye.
She snaps her fingers and the two fatui members stand up straight behind her.
"It seems like our mission is finished here." She doesn't seem to address anyone in particular but the Fatui members respond with a simple, 'Yes, lord Harbinger'.
"Creator–" She calls out your title with less mockery than before, "it was a pleasure to meet you."
You mirror her words, realizing that it was the first time she had truthfully told you what had been on her mind. Whether for good or bad, she would not forget this interaction anytime soon.
And so, La Signora makes her exit. She doesn't waste time with any more pleasantries and disappears almost as fast as you had appeared. When the doors close behind her, the tense atmosphere dissipates as well.
With the stressful situation out of the way, your mind instinctively moves to observe the unfamiliar room you had been teleported into.
Your gaze glides across the room. You are greeted by a warm and strangely familiar atmosphere. The room has the same style as the one in the inn, but it radiates more luxury and wealth, almost to an exaggerated point.
The deep orange hues from the lights above dominate the room, casting a soft golden glow on everything it touches and complimenting the golden lining in the wooden cabinets, desks, and chairs. Aside from the obvious golden details nearly everywhere in the room, the other furniture exudes an air of luxury and sophistication, not unexpected—considering Zhongli seems to be using it as his office right now.
Everything seems to be carefully placed with a purpose.
Wooden screens divide the room, hiding you from the maids and workers walking around and giving you some privacy with the Archon and yaksha. And as you move your head around further, your eyes fall onto the silk tapestries that are suspended from the ceiling. They depict important historical figures and events in Liyue. When you look closer, you see a figure that seems to represent you.
Zhongli walks up to you.
He smiles as he follows your line of sight. "I admit that Miss Ningguang has exquisite taste when it comes to decorating. The line between modern and antique furniture overlaps in a tasteful way, and yet nothing seems to be out of place."
"Wait, is that you, Xiao?" You point to a specific silk tapestry in the room.
Xiao follows your pointed finger. The picture depicts you and Xiao, along with four other people you fail to recognize. It takes him a second to reply, "Yes."
"Do you recall any of these moments?" Zhongli, who remains at your side, asks you with care.
"I recognize myself. It's difficult not to. Aside from the clothes, it's exactly how I appear right now. I also recognize you and Xiao, but the other people in the pictures aren't familiar."
Zhongli's expression remains neutral, as if he anticipated your answer. ''It's no surprise that you recognize yourself. Every single one of these tapestries depicts significant events throughout the history of Liyue, in which you played a major part.''
You hesitate, "In a way, they feel familiar, but I'm unable to remember what happened or who the other people are. All I know for certain is that these events happened, even if it's merely a feeling.''
"In that case, Would you like to sit down?" Zhongli places a hand on the small of your back. "If you have time I'll be able to tell the stories behind each tapestry."
You reply, "I would like to, but I can't stay here. Not while I know that Lumine and Paimon are both looking for me. I hope nothing bad happened after I left." You look at Xiao. "I am confused though."
Xiao hesitantly speaks out, "Your Grace?"
You continue; "You said it was the Fatui who were following us? Does that mean that the woman— La Signora —was lying?"
Zhongli lets out a deep chuckle. "I apologize, your Grace. It appears the situation might've grown a bit confusing as a result of my actions."
You look up at him, waiting for him to explain.
"In the past, I was approached by La Signora to make a deal with the Tsaritsa. My final contract. However given the unexpected change in our situation, the contract was deemed void. Upon further instructions from the Tsaritsa, La Signora was ordered to cease operation within Liyue and return to Snezhnaya with the other Harbinger who is also staying in Liyue."
Zhongli glances over to Xiao as he speaks, "I assume it was the Eleventh who acted independently and continued to follow the traveller despite his new orders?"
The yaksha nods, confirming Zhongli's words.
"But isn't that a dangerous situation for Lumine and Paimon?" You ask.
"I assume by now that the Harbinger will have put all the given information together and realized why the mission was canceled and he was recalled. Confronting the traveller was the final push he needed to realize the truth."
You lift an eyebrow, unsure why he held you in suspense. "The truth being…?"
"A bigger purpose, you, the Creator. ''
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 13: CH10 - New goals
Notes:
Due to the upcoming holidays, I'll have less time to write. The next chapter is likely to be uploaded after New Year's. Thank you for understanding and supporting my fanfiction 3 (and happy holidays in advance!)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Almost half an hour ago, Ningguang had walked into the room to inform you of Lumine and Paimon's whereabouts. Thankfully, they hadn't been in trouble and were still in Liyue harbor, searching for a way to find either a member of the Qixing, Rex Lapis, or you, until they were approached by one of Ningguang's closest confidantes.
It was also Ningguang who informed you that you were currently in the infamous Jade Chamber, which floated at a nearly impossibly high altitude in the sky. Despite their vow to keep your identity a secret, you chose to stay hidden from the workers and remained inside. This meant that you hadn't witnessed the vast distance with your own eyes. However, the safety of the walls surrounding you gave little comfort after Ningguang revealed your location.
Neither Zhongli's reassurance nor hers would make you feel more at ease during your stay above the clouds.
While awaiting Lumine and Paimon's arrival in the Jade Chamber, Zhongli kept his promise by having you sit down and focus on the stories depicted on the silk tapestries.
Battles and friendships from long ago do not return your memories, but you now know why Zhongli and Xiao validate you so. In the stories, it sounds like you were close friends before you lost your memories. It must be saddening for them to realise that these moments no longer remain with you.
Ningguang interrupts the comfortable silence once more, "Creator, Rex Lapis."
When you look up at her, you see your beloved friends by her side. Without a second to waste, you jump out of your chair. You practically stumble forward as you race across the room.
"Y/n." Lumine wraps her arms around you once you're close enough, followed by Paimon wrapping her smaller ones over hers. In this short time, you had become close with both of them. If fate would be kind to you, it'd keep the three of you connected till the end of time.
After a short moment, you remove your hands from Lumine's back and flash her an apologetic look, saying, "I'm sorry." You glance away with a feeling of guilt. "I wanted to come back for you but a lot happened. And by the time I could do something, Lady Ningguang had already sent someone to get you up here."
Lumine's lips curve upwards, "There's nothing to forgive, so don't apologise. Xiao ended up helping us a great deal."
Paimon nods her head vigorously. "Paimon admits Paimon was scared when Xiao suddenly showed up and told us we were followed. Paimon thought we were going to have to fight another dragon or something, but it ended up being a simple misunderstanding."
You raise an eyebrow. "Dragon?"
A chair scrapes against the wooden floor. When you look over your shoulder towards the source, you see Zhongli has risen to his full height. His expression is calm and unrevealing of his emotions, as usual. It's a look that radiates power—yet is devoid of intimidation and threat.
He takes a step forward. "It is a pleasure to see you again, traveller."
Lumine nods her head in acknowledgment, but it's Paimon who responds. "Paimon is really happy too. Maybe after all this walking around, y/n is finally able to return their memories." She turns to you with an encouraging smile and puts her thumbs up.
"We… talked quite a lot already," You point at the silk tapestries hanging from the ceiling. "I haven't been able to recall anything yet, but I understand my position better after a little history lesson."
Paimon awes at the pieces of art you pointed out. She floats further into the room without much care of intrusion. "Is that you?"
You walk up to Paimon with Lumine following from behind. The little pixie had stopped in front of a silk tapestry that depicts Zhongli and some stone frog-dragon-thing that you've come to know as 'Azdaha'. On the tapestry, you hold out your hand to 'Azdaha', a golden glow falling onto the skull of the beast and depicting you as a saviour of sorts. Zhongli, or Rex Lapis, or Morax— the names are a lot —is illustrated to stand behind you with his arms crossed. The tapestries aren't detailed enough to show expressions, but the resemblance is certain.
Similar to Paimon, Lumine looks at it with interest and curiosity. Her awe is less evident as her eyes glide over the picture, always carefully hiding her emotions. She seems a bit more hesitant for some reason, slowly taking in any detail and new information.
And while you and your companions stand in front of the tapestry, Zhongli seems to have made his way over as well because he stands next to you when he starts to explain the history behind the art,
"Mortals have always had a fascination with the Creator. This specific tapestry demonstrates a power we used to call; 'light energy'. It's unlike any other elemental energy—something only the Creator is capable of."
You look at the picture with yearning. Could this truly be you? Did you belong in such a timeline once upon a time?
All of the stories Zhongli had told you were magnificent, almost in a dramatic soap series kind of way. It makes it hard to wrap your head around everything. It's surreal to have history depict you as such a powerful being, especially when you're unable to deny nor confirm the facts yourself.
You catch Paimon staring at you. A nervous laugh escapes your lips. "Don't look at me like that. I'm also unable to believe that's me."
Zhongli follows your laugh with a warm chuckle. "All in due time. For now, let's take a seat. I would be delighted to answer any inquiries you may have."
Uncertainty builds up in your stomach as you move in one of the four chairs surrounding the square table which is boldly placed in the middle of the room. Because of its square shape, it has four equal sides, and thus no head. A design choice for a meeting table, a place where all participants would be equal, you suspect.
Lumine's eyes are already fixed on you when you turn to her. She gives you a small nod as she settles in the chair on your left while Paimon takes the one on your right. Zhongli takes the only seat left and comfortably settles across from you.
Once everyone is settled, you clear your mind. The small gnosis groans as if protesting, and you clutch it tightly in the hope of suffocating the reverberating rumbles it releases.
Then, you start, "Up until now, I've worked hard to regain my memories with the gnosis, but without success." It trembles in your hand. "It isn't enough. And while I'm eternally grateful for your help and willingness to tell me all of these memories that I should remember, I know I'm running out of time."
The room falls silent as you finish your story, "—every moment I waste trying to figure out how to unlock my memories with a gnosis that wasn't meant for me, is another moment where my memories slip from me. I need to know why you thought the gnosis would help me, and why it isn't."
Zhongli brings the teacup from the table to his mouth. It's a calculated action, as if he's trying to extend this moment, which brings a newfound anxiety for the answer he's withholding.
Once he lowers the teacup onto the table, he answers. "The gnoses were gifted by Celestia, but created from you. In its rawest form, the gnoses should be part of your lifeforce— your aura. "
The gnosis in your hands vibrates weakly when you look at it. Aside from the occasional surge of elemental power it seems to release, you haven't felt a personal connection to the object ever since receiving it.
Why could that be?
"If I may be so bold," Zhongli folds his hands over each other. "Your memories should have returned by now. The energy should have recognised its Creator. It is a similar concept to the ley lines, if that helps your understanding."
Lumine frowns. "But…?"
"But if your memories are yet to return, perhaps the problem lies elsewhere."
You think about Zhongli's words. Previously, you had assumed all of your problems to disappear if you were to remember everything. But what if there was another problem? Could you have missed the bigger picture that caused your fading memories?
While you were more than displeased at this revelation, his statement seemed highly likely.
"You believe this because of my aura? Since only a few seem to recognise it?" You look from Zhongli, to Lumine and Paimon, over to Xiao—who remains standing upright behind his Archon.
Zhongli hesitates. "This is a possibility we should consider, yes."
Xiao clears his throat. "Creator. Perhaps this could be because mortals aren't able to comprehend weaker amounts of your energy. The traveller is an outlander, maybe they're more sensitive to it as we are."
"No." You reject his idea. "I've met ordinary people who have been able to recognise my aura. Even if it was one, it's unlikely to be an anomaly."
Paimon puts her hands on her head. "Wait. Paimon is confused. Doesn't this make the problem much bigger?"
You look over to the little pixie who is visibly distressed with the new information. The corners of your lips lift despite the gloomy situation. She cares about you—as do the others in this room.
Your conversation with Kaeya from the day before flashes through your mind.
"Why don't you ask Rex Lapis himself? After all, he is the best person to seek answers from. As much as I love Mondstadt, I fear our Archon is as free as its people, so I can't advise you to come back with me onto a journey to find the lost Barbatos."
Kaeya's eyes had been fixated on the gnosis moments prior. You had wondered why he seemed so uninterested in it. After all, getting to know that gnoses exist and seeing one right in front of him should stir some feelings in him. Regardless of those being positive or negative.
Perhaps in the grand scheme of things, it no longer seemed as potent as before.
In the past weeks you've been trying to unlock your memories through the geo gnosis without prevailing. Then, you spent a few hours listening to—what should be—your memories, without ever recalling them.
If the geo Archon can't help you, maybe you should seek an audience with another one.
While it seems like a good next step in your mission to recover your memories, you realise how hard this information will be for Zhongli. He'd been more than willing to spend the next century reciting all of his memories in the hopes of your own returning. Unfortunately, you need more than stories to fix this problem.
"What about the other Archons?" You ask carefully.
Zhongli furrows his eyebrows for a split second. Then he purses his lips, carefully thinking about his next words. "You wish to send a message to the Tsaritsa?"
You blink. Had he assumed you wanted to reach out to the cryo Archon after your prior interaction with La Signora? While you hadn't been too opposed to it, Lumine and Paimon had warned you about the Fatui.
Could you trust the cryo Archon?
"I was thinking about someone closer. A neighbouring nation, if preferable. Do you think Sumeru could help us?"
Paimon gasps. Before she can speak, Lumine interjects. "We have met the anemo Archon in the past. We could return to Mondstadt. It's closer than Sumeru and we're already acquainted, making it easier to find him."
With your trusty cloak and the traveller as your aid, you will be able to explore the city without an uproar. In the worst scenario, not only Lumine would have your back, but Kaeya and Albedo too. Surely people would be more trusting of you with them by your side.
But…
Why would you cause an uproar?
Paimon continues, "If anyone recognises you, we can simply explain the situation to Acting Head Master Jean. After all, we saved Mondstadt with her. She'll likely trust us if we tell her what's been going on."
Right. The aura problem.
What is wrong with you? How could you forget something you were just talking about?
You nod to yourself. "I suppose we now know our next move."
Slowly, your eyes move up and shift over your companions in the room. Xiao and Lumine keep their emotions hidden behind a mask of neutrality, while Paimon wears hers visible with pride. Zhongli though…
The geo Archon remains silent for a moment longer. Then he speaks in a low voice. "What more can he offer compared to me? Barbatos isn't—." His tone shifts, but he quickly regains himself. He looks you directly in the eyes. " I know I would be able to offer more guidance. Liyue might not offer a vast abundance of knowledge on ley lines, but we have more than enough Adepti ready to aid you. Ones with centuries of experience, and centuries of memories with you."
You look over to Lumine for her advice.
"In such a short time frame actions are better than stories. If you aren't able to remember your past life now, who says you will after hearing more? If you feel like you're running out of time, more Archons on your side might be better." Lumine turns from you to Zhongli. "And while Liyue seems like a good place to stay, won't it take a while before the Adepti can find out what is wrong with the Creator's aura?"
Zhongli eyes her down like a god would to a defiant follower. Greed and envy fill his eyes, and the gnosis seems to groan in response. "And what do you think Barbatos has to offer over me?"
"A new perspective." Lumine holds her ground. After a moment longer, she turns her head to you, ignoring the Archon in her presence. "In Mondstadt we will meet new possibilities. Maybe the Abyss order is involved like they were with Dvalin. If so, we will find more answers there."
Paimon seems to agree with that possibility as she nods her head furiously in response. Xiao keeps his views to himself. The only tell he shows are his pursed lips and the words he keeps locked behind.
Mondstadt, or Liyue.
Or you'll be putting your faith into an Archon with nearly no influence over his own lands, or you can test your time by waiting and hoping the Adepti will find an answer.
Both options sound like too much of a gamble, and yet—
"Can't we do both?" You look up at your companions. "I mean, there's no need for me to stay here and wait. I can go to Mondstadt while the Adepti try to help me from a distance."
No more counterarguments are presented. It is the perfect middle ground for a less-than-perfect situation.
"Okay," Zhongli answers in a flat tone. He forces a small silence into the room as he formulates a plan in his mind. Then he speaks again, "The Adepti will be gathered, and we will aid you."
His doubt hides behind under his stiff and business formed composure, yet you're able to recognise his true feelings without much effort.
He does not approve of your decision.
On the other hand, both Paimon and Lumine seem visibly relieved at your choice of heading to Mondstadt. Lumine has a visible smile on her face and her eyes are filled with newfound hope.
She leans closer to you, making her hair fall in her face when she tilts her head playfully. "Let's go to Mondstadt." She gives you her brightest smile. "Together."
Her joy is enough to overshadow Zhongli's doubt, and so your own eyes start to shimmer with hope— Forgetting the consequences of your choices altogether.
You're quick at gathering your possessions once you return to the inn. The few belongings you own are all gathered in your hands. You realise you own very little to your name. The book gifted to you by Lumine and Paimon, pyjamas and underwear that had been bought on your travels, and a toothbrush. Everything else you used on a daily basis, was shared with Lumine.
In an attempt to fill the silence in the room, you ask a question that has been stuck in your mind for a while now,
"Lumine, Paimon?" Both halt their movements in favour of awaiting what comes next. "I never got to ask this in the Jade Chamber, but what happened after Xiao teleported me away?"
Paimon is immediately captivated by your question. Her eyes widen as if she's recalling the events. "Yeah! Remember Childe? He suddenly got really mad at Lumine for no reason!"
Her tone is a bit too excited for her words to be alarming to you. You await her explanation.
"He started to pick a fight with the traveller, and because she already had her sword out, he immediately attacked. It caused a big commotion in the harbor and Childe only ran away once the Millelith intervened."
Lumine adds to Paimon's story while she continues to pack her stuff. "He had been keeping a close eye on me ever since I entered Liyue. No doubt, every meeting with me had been in his favour. But in all honesty, I think the Fatui has been keeping close tabs on me ever since Mondstadt. It didn't feel like a personal thing."
You hum. "I'm glad you weren't hurt."
"Pfft? Hurt?" Paimon snickers. "If anyone was hurt, it was Childe."
Lumine disagrees, "If we weren't in public, I'm not sure what would've happened. As a Harbinger, he has a reputation to uphold. Childe never used his full powers during the fight."
Lumine continues. "But enough about that." She puts her hands on her hips and turns to you. "You also mentioned meeting a Harbinger on our way back. I'm curious how your confrontation went."
You avert your eyes. "I'd compare it to a forced diplomatic conversation instead of a confrontation—but yes."
You cross your arms. It takes no effort to remember your conversation with La Signora. The deal between the geo Archon and the cryo Archon was truly peculiar. If you had chosen to stay in Liyue, you might've been able to figure out what this deal was about.
"There isn't much to note, except that she was the mediator between the cryo and geo archon for a contract. I'm unsure of whether she felt my aura or not because she saw my face." You hum, recalling the way she addressed you. "She did not seem to like me but she had no bad intentions either."
Paimon perks up, "Paimon is just glad Rex Lapis was there to clear up any possible confusion about your identity. If it was Childe he might've tried to fight you as well."
"Mhm," You nod your head as you look over at the pixie. "And with La Signora returning to the cryo Archon, she might be able to help me. Who knows? Maybe that's exactly what I needed."
Lumine shakes her head, "Not possible."
Paimon seems to agree with her. She crosses her arms and huffs once. "Paimon doesn't trust the Fatui. They only ever fight!"
"Oh?"
"That woman took the gnosis from Venti–" She screeches, " And turned Paimon into an ice cube."
Lumine carefully adds, "The Fatui seem to be after the gnoses. What guarantee do you have of the Tsaritsa accepting you in your current form when she won't try to respect her other Archons?"
You frown. Your lack of information on the cryo Archon and the Fatui was making the situation difficult. Could you be making the wrong choices? And if you were, how could you trust your previous judgement of leaving Liyue?
"Do you truly believe that the Fatui has bad intentions even if Zhongli, the geo Archon, had willingly signed a contract with La Signora?"
"Oh." Paimon rubs her head. "Paimon forgot about that."
"Surely he'd have the right reasons to do this, no?"
Lumine pats her travel bag a few times, making sure it's secure before she slings it over her shoulder. "While I understand your confusion and need for answers, I'm not sure if we'll ever get the truth of that question. Despite Rex Lapis' willingness to share anything with you, he didn't seem thrilled to explain certain things in detail. At least, not with us in the room."
She gestures to Paimon with her head. The pixie seems to visibly deflate. "Paimon also felt like that."
"For now,–" Lumine puts a hand on your shoulder in a comforting way, "–let's head to Mondstadt. It's still early, and I've got a feeling it's best to depart as soon as possible."
You nod and place your belongings in the bag Lumine had prepared for you. "I'm ready."
"Paimon is too!" The pixie throws her hand in the air and races outside. "C'mon! Paimon really wants to stop by some food stalls on the way."
Lumine sighs and heads out of the door, trying to stop the small companion from leaving without you.
Your hand clamps around the gnosis. It is silent for the first time since you received it. No energy, no faint humming, no vibrations.
…
Nothing.
You pull your cloak over your head and take the first step towards Mondstadt.
Notes:
If you liked this chapter and think I deserve a kudo/comment, please leave one behind! I appreciate it a lot and it'll make me more motivated to write in the future
Chapter 14: CH11 - Four people, one destiny
Notes:
I had a family emergency at the beginning of the year, hence the delayed update! I'm not sure if I'll be able to post CH12 next Sunday either (bare with me as I take some time to sort things out irl), but I'll try to get these last chapters out ASAP. In the meantime, thank you for your continuous support! 3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
A resounding crash jolts you from your slumber. It's not a sound you'd expect to hear in the middle of the night, nor is it something you can pass on to your imagination, and so it plunges your mind into a primal fight-or-flight.
Without a second thought, your body jumps up from the sleeping bag, ready to combat the suspecting intruder. When the moment passes, you realize there never was one. Silence fills the night once more until you hear Lumine call your name, gentle concern lingering in her voice.
You blink your eyes to adjust to the darkness. A few meters ahead of camp, you see branches stacked in a pyramid formation, set ablaze to keep its company safe and warm. Around it, comfortably on the grass, sits Lumine. She faces camp, and although the shadows obscure her expression, her body is visibly relaxed.
"Are you alright," Lumine's voice, a mere whisper, breaks the night's silence. "Did you have a nightmare?"
You look around the area. Nothing seems out of the ordinary. The world is quiet aside from the occasional winds brushing against the ruins and trees. Even the nocturnal animals and insects seemed absent in this moment.
As you remain unsure of what had awoken you, the person next to Lumine causes concern. "Who is that?"
The stranger is facing away from you and towards the fire. He has to turn his upper body to look at you. Once he does, you're able to make out his blonde hair and dark clothes. Half of his face remains hidden— an eyepatch, maybe? And the only thing that stands out is his cape full of shimmering stars.
While an unsuspecting party member isn't your favorite way of waking up, Lumine's relaxed composure makes you feel safe. You move to sit upright more comfortably in the sleeping bag.
"I apologize if either of us stirred you." Lumine turns her head to the stranger, gesturing at him. "We happened to run into each other and we decided to catch up."
The stranger lightly nods his head in your direction, now turning around to properly face you. "My name is Dainsleif. We have met before."
Your first memories in Windrise appear vividly in your mind. The soft zephyr brushing against your cheeks, the crystal butterflies, Dainsleif.
Then, in Mondstadt, another muddled memory. You recall talking with him, but the topic of conversation is no longer clear to you. He appears to be more focused this time. His eyebrows furrow together and his lips are pulled in a thin line, leaving you to guess how he felt at that moment.
Another memory breaks free. You remember the cape on his shoulders, and trying to dip your hands into the fabric, wanting to break the stars free. You recall how safe it made you feel when the world started to turn dark, unlike the night, and more like nothingness.
Dainsleif turns his head away from you. With his new position, you only see the back of his head and the black side of his cape. Your mind leaps from side to side, making sense out of nothing and confusing the things that once made sense. Up is down, down is up, under is right, up is wrong.
You furrow your eyebrows.
"Who?"
Lumine turns her head to the male next to her. She lifts her shoulders before they fall again. The night hides her face but you notice the change in her expression. She normally seems so neutral, calm, and put-together—but now her eyes seem to scream at you.
You hear the male, Dainsleif– why is that name so familiar —whisper something before Lumine replies in the same hushed manner. Then, the stranger stands up. Without a goodbye, the mysterious man walks away. The further he goes, the more he blends in with the darkness of the night.
You look at Lumine.
Her voice is gentle as ever, "Try to get some more sleep," but her eyes scream louder and louder. Something is telling you to run . "I'll protect you throughout the night," she says.
You move your eyes towards the darkness once more.
What had awoken you again?
You decided to listen to Lumine.
Peacefully, you let your world succumb to the same darkness that swallowed you whole so many times before. The distant crackling of the fire lulls you to sleep and casts a protective warmth over you, though, it might have been Lumine who made you feel this safe—even with the increasing darkness.
Sunlight cuts through the white clouds in the blue sky and paints the ground with warm hues. Yesterday, the start of your journey to Mondstadt started with your departure from Liyue's main city. You had set out towards Guili Plains, but with your current pace, and the fact you'd been avoiding the main roads, it'd take a few more days before your arrival.
Right now, you are making the final preparations for your second day on the roads. Up till now you hadn't encountered anything noteworthy. Hilllichurl camps seemed sparse, there were little to none adventurers present in the wilderness, and the animals seemed more absent-minded—not bothering to run when Lumine had been hunting for dinner.
Perhaps it was a stroke of good luck after misfortune. Perhaps it was the calm before the storm.
You weren't going to wait to find out which of the two it'd be.
"Good morning!" Paimon greets you with a warm smile, only to cross her arms right after. "Wait a minute, Paimon thinks you look tired. Did you get any sleep?"
She accusingly points at you, which makes you laugh in the process. "Really? I slept like a rock. It's as if I caught up to all those restless nights from before, I'm feeling better than ever."
Paimon hums, not attempting to argue back. You sling your bag over your shoulders as you stand up. Without a mirror it's hard to check your appearance, however, you don't doubt that the little pixie began to see what you've been seeing the past few weeks. Even at this very moment when you stretch out your bare hands, you seem to fade away.
You pull your cloak over your head, turning to look at the pixie. "Have you seen Lumine yet?"
She makes a stressed sound. "She went out to check the surroundings, to make sure everything is safe for Paimon and you, but… she hasn't returned yet."
The little pixie turns her head towards the treeline, whispering below her breath how it shouldn't take much longer, no doubt a bit worried about Lumine's delay.
"Oh, Paimon forgot to ask." She turns her body back to you, "Did you end up reading the book that Paimon and Lumine bought for you in Liyue?"
The bag begins to feel heavier at the mention of the book. Your hand instinctively moves over, and when you graze over the fabric, you feel the item within. When you fish it out, a heavy book yells out the contents of the story through a title.
'The Divine Creator's Demise & the End of Teyvat'
Paimon's smile falls into an agonized frown, her eyes casted onto the cover. The picture appears to represent the Creator, you , with a star-hilted sword in the back. It gives you an unsettling feeling.
You are quick to force it back into the bag, safe and out of view. "I don't think I've read it yet. It's been quite hectic, even when it was just me and the gnosis in the inn."
"Paimon understands. When you first asked for a book, Paimon and Lumine were surprised to only find such a dark one. They should make happier stories for The Creator, y'know!"
You try to recall the moment when you asked for a book. However, nothing comes to mind.
You get ready to defend your past actions but you are interrupted by a familiar voice calling out both your and Paimon's name. From the treeline, Lumine appears with a stranger by her side. When the two stop in front of you, Paimon puts her arms on her hips. The pixie is quick to recognize the man, calling him by his name, to which he responds with a curt greeting. When Paimon doesn't further react to it, you realize that they must be well acquainted.
Your eyes inspect the stranger whom Paimon called 'Dainsleif'.
His outfit consists of a black jacket with blue details, a grey vest, and black pants. He seems to be wearing black armored gloves and boots, but you're not too sure about that since the right side of his outfit was laced with a blue veiny pattern. And while his outfit already made him an easily recognizable figure, his cape seemed to catch all your attention. The stranger's black cape had a beautiful starry, space-patterned interior that seemed to reflect the night sky, shimmering and dancing behind him.
Something like that, you're bound to remember. The way the small stars shimmer and fade, even with the daylight blinding them, has you mesmerized. After a small moment you look over at Lumine for guidance.
"This is Dainsleif," when Lumine mentions his name, the male offers another nod in your direction. "He felt your aura. That's how we encountered each other. He offered to join us while we head towards Mondstadt, but only if you're okay with it."
An uncanny sense of familiarity wafts over you. "Join us?"
Paimon floats closer and clings to your arm. "Dainsleif might not seem approachable at first, but Paimon knows we can trust him. After all, he helped us with finding the Adepti." she quickly adds to it, "Plus, he knows a looot of things. He might be helpful to you as well!"
You take another look at him. He appears a bit stiff, but not in a threatening way. He genuinely seems to have no idea what to say or do. An understandable thing, considering you were The Creator. "I'm pleased to finally make your acquaintance in this world."
"As am I," you reply. You're surprised at how easy the words fall out of your mouth. While you're not thrilled to have a stranger join you on your journeys, you put your trust in Lumine and Paimon's judgment. "So we're all going to Mondstadt together?"
Lumine puts one of her hands on her hip while shifting her weight onto one foot. "With the help of Dainsleif, we could once again use the main roads. If you're exposed to people who are unable to sense your aura we might land in a troubling situation, but considering how slow our current journey has been, I'm willing to take a chance."
"Paimon thinks it's a great idea. We can travel on the road during the day, and set camp further away!" The pixie exclaims her idea with pride.
You think about the proposition. The gnosis concealed by your cloak is no longer a cause for worry. Ever since you set out towards Mondstadt, it stopped glowing. While its lack of power caused concern, you no longer needed to worry about someone seeing the light it usually radiated.
Furthermore, on multiple occasions, your cloak had proven sufficient capability of hiding your face. With Dainsleif traveling alongside you, your group had grown big enough for everyone to feel confident with your current camouflage. Unless another aura-sensitive person showed up, you'd go unnoticed.
You can't help the way your lips curl upwards with excitement. "Sounds like a plan."
Paimon cheers, floating a little higher as she kicks her feet in the air. While both Lumine and Dainsleif remained neutral, you sensed something different from the latter. He kept looking around him as if he was busy with something else and absent from the conversation.
You've only known him for a few minutes, so you're unsure if this is another part of his 'not approachable' appearance. Thus, you decide to not comment on it.
When his eyes land on yours, you notice the star-shaped pupil.
It reminds you of Kaeya.
Paimon's snores during her evening nap are enough to keep you distracted from your book.
When you finally decide to stand up for a fresh breath of air outside of camp, you're met with the sight of Dainsleif well on his way to start a fire. He sits on a fallen tree trunk, having found the perfect spot for everyone to sit once Lumine returns with dinner.
While sitting, he throws another log onto the pyramid of already burning ones, carefully nurturing the fire until it crackles loudly and has enough fuel to last the entire night.
He is clearly a step ahead of you and Paimon. The latter had fallen asleep once you finished setting camp with her, and then yourself, gazing in stupor at the new companion with a book in hand.
For a moment longer, you observe his actions.
His cape flutters behind him onto the grass, the stars within fluttering with each movement he makes. For the first time, he averts his attention from the fire. You instinctively follow his gaze.
Dainsleif's blue eyes turn from the treelines, towards the open field with the makeshift camp, until they land on you. Eye to eye, you stand still in your place until you decide to give him a wave. He hesitates but ultimately sends an equally awkward wave back into your direction.
While the interaction could've gone better, it'd be even more embarrassing if you were to turn back to camp, so you approach him.
"Can I sit next to you? Paimon fell asleep after we finished making camp and she snores too loud for me to read." You lift the item in your hand as you approach him, the cover shining brightly; 'The Divine Creator: world walker'.
"An interesting title. I did not expect that 'The Creator' would read stories about themselves, much less any praising ones." His tone remains the same but his words seem to silently tease you, acting as if he'd known you for a longer time. You smile, sitting yourself next to him at a comfortable distance. You're close enough for it to seem friendly but far enough for it not to be awkward.
"It's a study read. I can't sit idle while everyone is working hard to regain my memories. And who knows? I might look like a self-centered god but maybe the book will have answers," you respond.
His eyes stay focused on you. "What makes you confident that the contents are all factual and not made up?"
When he sees you raise an eyebrow and open your mouth to defend yourself, he adds, "Here is another question. How can you be certain that you are, in fact, 'The Creator' without any memories to support it? Have you ever entertained the idea that 'The Creator', as a concept, never existed prior to your arrival?"
Despite the outlandish question, you find yourself trying to answer his questions. After all, your lack of memories have been raising doubts. A troubled sigh leaves your lips when you realize that they have from the moment you entered Mondstadt, up till this very moment. And while he was right on the fact that you'd never be able to confirm anything without your memories, it'd be absurd to doubt the many people who do have memories of you, right?
The fire in front of you dances as thin strands of smoke twirl around. Above the horizon, the sunset was slowly merging from bright colors into a solid dark blue. You'd lose the light to read fast, but you feel like you'll get more answers from Dainsleif than anywhere else. And thus, you entertain his thoughts.
"If the creator didn't exist before my arrival, it's another thing I won't be able to confirm without my memories. Regardless of what is and what is not true, I have to continue forward—trying to find my memories as I do." You look at Dainsleif, resolve filling your mind as you grow more confident about your past choices. "I will go to Mondstadt, and I will find out the truth. Furthermore, I'll accept that truth as it is, with or without me being 'The Creator'."
Dainsleif's lips curl upward for a split second. The moment is so fleeting that you doubt it ever happened at all. You do notice how his shoulder relaxes. Dainsleif lets out a breath that feels like a burden he'd been carrying for a while. Then he turns to the fire once more, poking the stick in his hands against the charred ones.
He speaks to you, "Then it'll be my pleasure to accompany you once more, so-called creator of ours."