Authors disclaimer: I do not own Genshin impact. I explained everything in my profile of whats been goig on and why the updates are being slow and practically not happening. That and summer is not my best season to write stories. But yeah, Genshin will be my next focus throughout the summer. Best my best to update and get the chapters going best I can but yeah.

So hope you all enjoy and have fun, I am sorry about the fight with Dvallin not being epic or best to my ability. I am not very good at giant monster battles in my stories and usually try and avoid them much as possible. So sorry if it isn't the best like the fights in previous chapters.

xxx

Chapter 9: Traveler vs. Dvallin! Hearts of New Found Freedom!

It has been a very long and tedious journey towards Dvallin lair, where Jean, Diluc, Aether and Venti have finally arrived at the destroyed and decrepit ruins of the Wind Dragon's home. The four were handling and finishing up with the beacons that the Abyss had taken control of and preventing them from entering the main layer of Dvallin. One by one, the four of them have managed to go and release the abyss magic hold on the beacons of light. In order to open up the pathway into the central tower ruins. There, surrounding the tower, was a large amount of winds, behaving like a barrier to prevent people from entering inside of it.

The barrier weakened after they cleared off the last abyss members that had surrounded the last beacon. Causing the winds to die down but still surrounding the tower from the lower half of the tower. But enough to be able to approach and climb the tower that will reach the domain of Dwalin. While they were heading over there and walking up the slopes and debris of the tower, Venti spoke up after making a jump to one of the pathways the stone style rubble provided our adventurers. "Listen everyone, it is going to be weird to say this and I know I should've brought it up while we were heading here." Venti began saying after releasing his glider and took one of the wind currents that flew the four upwards and landed on a stone platform, where everyone was waiting for him.

He went ahead and adjusted his hat and let out a low hum, feeling his shoulder length cap blowing within the harsh winds, as Jean, Diluc and Aether turned towards him and saw him rolling his right shoulder. "But in order for us to gain access to Dvallin's domain, we will have to play the Kyre the church of Mondstat has hidden within its walls. As it is the only thing that can somewhat soothe and calm Dvallin, despite whether he is being controlled or manipulated by the Abyss."

This had Jean widening her eyes and adjusting her ponytail as it was being whipped about from the harsh winds. "The Lyra? We don't even have that with us and you could've told us about this, before we left Mondstat too." She exclaimed and shook her head while placing a hand on her forehead. "I mean…that is really important information to know about BEFORE we even started this journey in the first place."

This had Aether humming and with his golden eyes look between Jean and Venti, as he took slight notice of Diluc looking to the side seemingly knowing what they needed…or that he has the said item they need on his person right now. "Is there a significance between Dvallin and the lyre?" Aether asked Venti and Jean, with Jean sighing and adjusting her slightly cut open and torn uniform in order to conceal her cleavage some more and responded to Aether's question crossing her arms.

"Yes, legends say that the Lyre was created and crafted within the confines of Barbatos himself alongside Dwalin. Using the Anemo dragon's powers to craft the mythical strings that are pure anemo, anyone who plays the Lyre will make wondrous sounds of music from it. No matter how or in what way you played it, nor even have experience playing such an instrument." She then closed her eyes and continued speaking while resting her weight onto her right leg, as everyone began moving once more. "They said that Barbatos used this instrument to calm and soothe the Wind Dragon during times of his temperament, or whenever the Dragon wasn't feeling well. Listing its spirits and bringing the senses back to him during these important times. Or even call upon Dvallin to aid Barbatos out to protecting the lands here."

JEan said as she hops over some structures that were in the way, with the others following suit. As Diluc went ahead and continued speaking the rest for Jean. The red-haired man turns his head halfway to look past his shoulder and faces the young traveler. "Till this day and ever since the creation of Mondstat. The Church had kept hold of the Lyre for many generations, including during the war 500 years ago. Where great calamity struck all over the world of Tevet." He then faces forward as the group enters inside the hollow exterior of the tower and sees magical seals creating a platform for them to walk across.

Venti hummed out in confirmation while laughing softly and crossing his arms, having a bit of a hop in his step. "Very well verse you two are about Mondstat's history." He then cock his head and laughed. "Luckily and thankfully we do in fact have the lyre with us as we speak." He said, having Jean turn her attention towards the bard and then saw him nudging his head over to Diluc. Who groaned inwardly at the boy, exposing that Diluc had taken the Lyre from the church. "Our Dark knight here has happily retrieved the instrument upon my request and taken it from the church."

This had Jean blinking her eyes and then lowering them halfway in a bit of annoyance, while crossing her arms and giving Diluc a very harsh expression. "And when were you going to inform me…let alone the traveler here, that you had the instrument with you? Before we even began stepping foot into Dvallin lair?" She poked an answer from Diluc, who groaned a bit louder and shook his head. "I understand your dislike of the Knights of Mondstat Diluc. But, it would've been nice to know ahead of time you had gotten the Lyre before we left the city."

"I was going to explain or let everyone know when we got to the main entrance to his lair. Why beat a dead horse and say we have the Lyer on our person. It would cause problems for us, if the Abyss heard or overheard us speaking about it and could have them try and destroy the instrument while we were defusing the beacons." He then turned his head at Jean, who winced lightly at the logic behind it. "Afterall Grandmaster, I believe exposing the key item that will grant us entrance. Would not be wise to expose it and have it out and about while in enemy territory."

Venti sighed and said, "Diluc I don't think scolding her for wanting to know if we had it on our person or not." He scolded and then saw the Statues of the seven up ahead that they needed to go and use some wind currents to reach it. "The grandmaster has every right to know if we had it or not, and honestly. I even told you before leaving your bar, to let her know that we were carrying the Lyer with us."

"Was that after you sober, or before you were sober." Diluc remarks back, getting some snorts from Jean and Aether. Causing Venti's eyes to shrink slightly as Diluc had a small smirk on his face. "Cause I seem to recall a certain drunken bard here, telling me to keep it a secret. In order to see and laugh at the reaction of the Grandmaster when she sees us pulling the Lyer when we reach the entrance of Dvallin's domain." He chuckled out and opened up his glider and fellow upwards with the wind. Leaving Venti to stand there in slight disbelief and chuckling sheepishly as Aether laughed and approached the wind current and flew upwards and followed behind Diluc.

"Eheh, I didn't think he would actually listen to me while I was drunk." Venti stated softly while rubbing the back of his neck. Seeing Jean give a little laugh as her shoulder shook. "Sorry about that, I guess I..err." He snicker when he felt Jean resting a comforting hand on his shoulders and shook her head.

"No it's alright, I do appreciate you sticking up for me." Jean then let go of his shoulder and heard a stern look. "But next time, please inform me ahead of time. It's not me who you should really worry about." She then left it at that and figured to play along with Diluc's vague answers and statements as this had Venti hum and watch the woman approach the wind currents and open up her , scratching the side of his hair.

"Huh? If it's not you I need to worry about, then who?" He asked and figured to hold off the question right now and follow the three before he gets left behind. Following right behind Jean and seeing her flying over towards the Statue of the sevens, where Traveler and Diluc went and touched the statue and opened up more of the map for them as well as quick travel markers for them to have access too. When Venti and Jean landed, the Grandmaster went ahead and approached the statue and did the same thing for her map as all of them felt the restoration powers the statue has, recovering all the lost energy and injuries they had suffered through their fights in the area.

When Venti landed and took a couple steps forward from losing his balance, he quickly righted himself and dusting off his clothes as he approached the four and smiled. "Anyway, here we are." He says and faces towards the structure once more where they will see it being basically empty and only have a few ruin guards that were broken and deactivated surrounding the large central area of the hollow entrance. "This right here will open the path to Dvallin's lair or I should say, domain. Where the Ley Lines are the strongest here."

He informed the four as they hummed and faced towards the structure hollow with the traveler crossing his arms and looking around carefully. He then turned towards Venti and says, "ah I see…so the reason we needed the Lyer. Is so that we can grant permission to enter Dvallin's Domain?" He asked and smiled when Venti nodded his head, wagging a single finger and winked.

"That is correct, my interdimensional traveler." Venti chuckled out and began entering the hollow structure and stopping a few inches away from the large opening hole in the middle of it. "Dvallin closed off his domain for generations. The only way to even dream of entering his Domain is by Dvallin himself, or using the power of the Lyer." Venti then turned around and looked towards Diluc. "Diluc, if you please hand me the Lyer, I will begin playing the notes that will grant us access to Dvallin's domain."

"Before I hand you the Lyer, I just have one question to ask." Diluc said as he reached inside his coat and started pulling the instrument out. "Even if we do get in there and figure out what is wrong with Dvallin. I don't think he will openly allow us to help him and care for him, let alone possibly even forcing us to go into a fight with him." He said and revealed the Lyer out in the open as the glistening green anemo strings began glowing and reflecting off from the moonlit skies right now. Approaching Venti and handing the instrument over. "Are we sure Dvallin will even allow us to help him."

This had Venti staying quiet for a brief moment ready to take the instrument but paused mere inches from it. His green vibrant eyes look left to right, then closing them and shaking his head. Having Jean and Diluc to stare concerningly as they understood they will be fighting the dragon. "No, he won't." Venti said bluntly while accepting the instrument and looked up at Diluc, with the man staring back at him. "I don't know what kind of magic the Abyss has on him, or what kind of things they've said or even told him about. But somehow, someway, whatever that purple crystal is that's been placed on him. Has closed his heart off from the world and has completely valued humans as monsters and untrustworthy…including the people of Mondstat who look up to him as their defender."

Aether hummed and softened his expression and lowered both eyelids halfway, flashing back to the moment when he engaged against Dvallin while attacking Mondstat. Recalling his words that have been plaguing his mind for awhile. "You look identical to her, you both share the same eyes. Yet yours is full of hope, while hers was full of rage."

This had Aether humming inwardly while crossing his arms and resting a hand to his chin. Having Jean to shift her gaze towards him and silently watches him and his behavior. ""Was he…talking about Lumine? I don't know anyone else in this world that would look identical to me…so it has to be Lumine he was mentioning. But, rage in her eyes? What did he mean by that?" He thought to himself and shook his head and let out a low breath of air. Which didn't go unnoticed by Jean, but decided to keep it to herself for now and face the problem they are in currently.

Diluc let's go of the Lyre and then asks, "If we do have to fight him. Then what should we do." He asked while opening u[ a hand and rotating his wrist about. "We can't exactly kill him. As no doubt that's what the Abyss want us to do and prove Dvallin right about us humans." Diluc explained while placing his hand back to his crossed arms, watching Venti staring down at the white stone floor they were standing on and shifted his gaze to the corner of his eyes. "All we have to do is get rid of the Abyss control over him right?"

"Easier said than done." Venti huffed lightly while placing a hand onto his hat and rubbing his head with it. "I've been trying to purify whatever it is they placed on him, especially if it was some sort of curse, poison or whatever it is. That's causing him to behave so negatively. That even my own powers don't seem to be enough."

Jean then steps forward and asks, "well what about that purple like crystal on his head? Clearly that isn't part of Dvallin right, and that the Abyss has something to do with it correct?" She then smiled and rested a hand onto her right hip side. "If so, then maybe if we destroy that and relinquish their hold on Dvallin. You might be able to go and cure whatever curse is placed on him."

Aether nodded and pumped his arm and formed a fist. "She's right, you said to me that crystal might be the cause of Dvallin's condition and possible behavior. If we-"

Venti let out a soft chuckle and laughed solemnly, "it is still a hypothesis though. I am not entirely sure if destroying the crystal will be enough to save him." He said and had everyone softening their shoulders and then look towards the open hole. "But…I admire all your positivity!" He exclaimed and grinned widely. "We won't know until we try right! So, let's keep those spirits and handle this like any other monsters out there." He then turned his back on them and faced the open hole.

"Anyway let's get going, we shouldn't let Dvallin suffer any further than needed." He then turned his head over to his right shoulder and then said. "Hope your all mentally prepared, cause no way Dvallin will make this easy for us." Then faced back forward and let out a couple of calming breaths before lifting the Lyer and hugging it close to his chest and gripped against the golden trims tightly and began moving his free hand over towards the anemo like strings.

Once Venti began playing the Lyre, wondrous music began playing from the strings. One of somber and beautiful, peace and tranquility that echo throughout the lair of Dvallin. A wondrous music that could calm even the wicked of souls or troubled ones in the world. Venti had his eyes closed as he continued playing and pulling the right strings and notes that would grant them all access to Dvallin's domain.

Aether watches intently as he listens to the music and suddenly, he sees orbs of elemental energy begin gathering all around them and swirling about. Building up winds as the music continued to be played, the blonde hair teen turned and twisted about as he saw the energy flying about and coming from the outside of the large pillar they were standing in. He jogged over towards the opening holes and saw more and more orbs of energy beginning to be pulled and extracted by the lands surrounding them.

Flying and soaring up into the skies followed by heading towards the central tower- light trails following right behind them glowing in beautiful and melodic blue and green colors. Lighting up the night sky and illuminating the moon into a wondrous green hue. Aether marveled at the sight while quickly turning around and seeing the energy beginning to gather and surrounding Venti. He saw Jean and Diluc waiting patiently while having their eyes closed and listening to the music that the bard was playing, with Jean silently adjusting her ponytail and brushing a few strands of hair away from her eyes. Diluc shifted against his weight and leaned on his right foot, letting the winds gently caress and blow against his hair and face.

Aether then faced Venti and saw the boy picking up speed with his tempo and was moving and swiftly gliding his fingers and hand through the strings like a professional. As if he has done this many times in the past. Considering who he is and being the Archon of Mondstat. Aether figured the boy would have the knowledge and instincts to use the Lyre without problems or troubles. Aether then grunted and shielded his eyes as Venti began dispersing green elemental energy around him. Gathering and pouring more energy into the music and surrounding orbs, as they began dancing and bobbing in midair and started twirling and spinning about above and below Venti. Having his cape and outfit blowing with the gentle breeze he is giving off.

The sight before him was astonishing as the energy orbs began dripping down and dropping droplets of water like fashion. Touching the open hole as if it was a solid object and began dripping rhythm with the music, as magical ruins began appearing and a magic circle started forming down below and where they are. As the energy orbs continued dripping like raindrops and filling the empty hole. Venti began walking forward and towards the open hole. Causing Aether to lightly panic and ready to rush in and grab him, but was stopped by Jean extending her arm and smiling towards him. "Don't worry, he's fine." She assured him with a smile and faces back towards the bard. Having Aether to hum inwardly and face back to the scene in front of him and watch Venti stepping down onto the forming magic circle. "The magic circle is solid. IT allows us to teleport and be transported to Dvallin lair." Jean began explaining as more and more green and blue elemental energy began gathering around Venti and completing the magic circle before them.

"This is how we gain access to special domains like these." Jean continued and crossed her arms and held her jacket tighter as the winds began getting stronger and powerful. "When the circle is finished, we gain access to enter the domain. We must be ready for the fight that's ahead of us." She continued.

Diluc uncrossed his arms and gently placed a hand into his right pocket. "Yeah, even if Dvallin is giving us permission to enter and allowing the circle to be formed. We still have to worry about him in person." He explained and turned his attention to the traveler who stared back with his golden eyes. "If anything, be prepared for combat once the portal opens, there will be no turning back."

Diluc warned the traveler as the boy nodded and stared back towards Venti and the magic circle that was almost completed. When the last droplet of energy began filling in the last remaining parts of the circle, Venti stepped off it on the other side. A large and blinding ray of light exploded from the bottom floor! Shooting skyward and through the second floor to then the floor they were standing on. Causing the blinding light to shine brightly and reveal the magic circle and granting it power and shooting one more tower of light straight towards and through the ceiling of the tower!

Lighting up the night sky with its illuminance glow that shines throughout the land of Mondstat and illuminating everything around it! This caused Lumine, who was heading off and riding on a Ruin guard's shoulder, to hum and then turn her head over her shoulders. Feeling the harsh winds blowing by and nearly lifting her off form the machine automaton. She shielded herself and felt her dress flapping wildly as the winds slowly died down. She removed her arm from her face and rested it down to her lap, staring in awe at the sight of the towering light that was covering Dvallin's tower.

"Princess." An abyss mage suddenly cried out and appeared before her and the robotic automaton. "We got word that our forces have failed to seal the entrance to Dvallin's tower, the 'Honorary knight' and other Knights of Mondstat have succeeded in penetrating the barrier and defeating our forces." The mage informed while bowing to Lumine.

The twin stared absently towards the light and could feel and sense her brother's presence in the distance. Knowing exactly who could've helped out the Knights of Mondstat and getting through their forces. Her golden eyes continued staring before looking down and staring down to one of the flowers nearby. "Your orders Princess?" The mage asked and then saw her closing her eyes.

"It's fine…we did everything we wanted here." She said and faced forward and closed her eyes. "Even if they save Dvallin or not, no skin off our bones." She said and then cockled her head slightly. "We continue with our plan, we already gathered enough Elemental energy here, let's go." She then faces forward. "'He's" very close by, will do us no good if that guy appears and gives us hell." She said and had all the abyss that were with her to nod in agreement and began heading out of the lair, not wanting to run into the other companion that was with her 500 years ago. "Brother…Your decision better be the right one if we meet. You have no idea what kind of trouble you're getting into." Lumine said to herself while grabbing the flower on her hair and stares at it longingly, before closing her eyes and placing it back to her hair.

The towering light began disappearing and dimming the region once more within the moonlight. The beacon however was also seen in Mondstat, where everyone who was fighting and doing everything in their powers, as well the Abyss army. Froze in their places and stares towards the towering light in the distance. The knights who all saw this, couldn't help but smile and feel rejuvenated at the thought of their Grandmaster reaching to Dvallin's tower and about to execute the rescue mission. The group faced towards the army with renewed strength and charged once more and finished off what was left of the army, along with the Armored Hilichurl that was rampaging about.

Knowing that if they don't succeed here then it will be fruitless endeavors if the Grandmaster wishes to protect the town. Thus they will be sure to come on out victorous

Xxx

Once the light fully disappeared, Aether, Jean and Diluc all saw Venti walking around the magic circle finishing up the song he was playing and came to a stop in front of all three of them. He then let out a low breath of air and placed the Lyre away inside his back. Then opened his vibrant green eyes and grinned. "Well, seems like Dvallin hasn't completely gotten corrupted." He joked and flicked his hat upwards.

"His heart is yearning for help and wanting to be saved. Despite his temper and anger he is currently in. The Dragon still pleads for help." Venti then turned towards the magic circle that will take them towards Dvallin's domain. "Alright everyone, " he then turned sideways and faced them. "Dvallin probably won't go down without a fight and may cause problems for us." He then fully faces the trio. "So, I hope you will bear with me and help me rescue Dvallin from the Abyss hold on him…and bring some sense back into the old asshole." He chuckled at the last part. Getting Jean to widen her eyes and then sighed while exasperatingly shaking her head.

Diluc just gives a soft chuckle and reaches his hand over to his claymore, "Only an Archon will go and call the Dragon an asshole." He remarked while gripping the hilt tightly. "But yeah we know the dangers, anything we should know besides Dvallin having amazing Anemo powers?"

Venti nodded and then raised a finger while tilting his head to the right, "Yeah, if you all saw Traveler here fighting him from earlier. Dvallin has the ability to manipulate and condense anemo energy around him. Creating cyclones, razor sharp winds and even wind blades." He then crossed his arms and nodded his head with closed eyes. "He also has the ability to summon forth razor sharp winds from his mouth as well. That is the most dangerous attack you all have to worry about." He then turned his head over his right shoulder saying. "That and if I think his domain is the same as the old days. He will also summon energy to cause fissures and gusts of winds to break apart the platforms." Then he faced back to the group.

"But no worries, they regenerate quickly so we have nothing to fear about losing our footing. Just be sure to get out of there, so you won't take needless damage and injuries." He then grinned. "Any other questions?"

Aether raised his hand slightly as he began speaking and asking, "If we do, do this? Are we sure we want to fight and harm Dvallin while trying to get rid of whatever it is that's controlling and manipulating him?" Aether lowered his arm and saw Venti staring softly and then looking down in thought and closing his eyes. "I know he's your friend and I don't want to harm him any further than what the Abyss order did to him."

The bard hummed and nodded his head slowly, "that is a very good question and can understand your concerns Traveler." He then opened his eyes and smiled. "But don't worry, Dvallin is a strong dragon, he can handle the punches and punishment." He then snickered. "Besides, he needs a spanking after what he did to the town. After all- much as it is freedom and his right to attack like that. I won't let his behavior go unnoticed nor would he be not punished for it." He then turns around and faces the magic circle. "Anyway time is of essence! Let's go everyone, Dvallin awaits!"

With that out of the way and nothing else to be spoken about. All four of them prepared and steeled themselves as they walked forward and stepped onto the circle. Feeling their bodies being transported and entering the Domain in a blinding white flash! To then the scenery changed before them, as they were high up in the air- almost passing through the clouds of the skies. They stood on platforms that formed a circle with a large opening in the middle. Flat stone platforms that look very sturdy and strong to support any type of weight.

The four of them looked around as Diluc, Jean and Aether twist and turn their bodies about to check their surroundings and get an idea how much room they have for combat. Then they all twist and whip their attention forward as they hear sounds of wings flapping below them, followed by roars of Dvallincoming from below, as he flies upwards and past the four- causing everyone minus Venti. To shield themselves from the powerful winds that were blowing against them, followed by swinging their arms down and summoning their weapons.

When Dvallin made a wide turn and adjusted his body and talons to flap and hover in place, stared down at the four who drew their weapons and faced him, "So, you all had come to end my life, have you. Tired of me roaming around the lands and causing massive panic to everyone, thus thee will be ending my life."

Venti steps forward and throws a hand down, "you know that is not true Dvallin, we came here to save you. To rid the Abyss orders control on you."

"And yet you draw your weapons on me, you humans are no different than what you were five hundred years ago. Causing massive wars, killing and plunging cities and people into chaos, all for your own selfish gains and needs." The Dragon continued and interrupted Venti. As the boy huffed and shook his head, "You don't know and understand what I've been through. The things I have seen cannot be unseen."

"Then Why do I see sadness in your eyes," Venti congested as he stepped forward and summoned his Anemos bow in his right hand. "Why do I see a friend pleading for help, to end this suffering that the Abyss placed on you?" He continued and glared. "You know me Dvallin, the Anemo Archon will never leave a friend behind, nor will he ever let someone suffer from their turmoil." He then looked up at the dragon who continued flying in place and glaring his eyes towards the vibrant green eyes of Venti. "I, Barbatos- won't let even a dragon like you suffer anymore. Let me help you, let me cleanse those ruins off from your body-"

But got interrupted as Dvallin roared out and began flying overhead and past the group as they closed their eyes and braced themselves from the winds. "You dare lecture me about friendship, dare lecture me as if I am your equal!?" He cried out and began flying faster and harder around the arena readying himself to protect and defend himself from the four. "Then so be it- if you truly want to save me, then prove it. Prove your worth by stopping me! I won't let anyone dictate me, control me or let my views be ignored!"

Venti groaned and shook his head while saying swiftly, "Says the one who is letting the Abyss control him." He laughed and then turned his head to the others. "Sorry everyone, it seems like Dvallin is not in a talking mood." Joked the bard as he turn sideways and saw Dvallin flying a couple of distance away and then swooping upwards and twirling about while folding his wings in and then outwards when he then began curling his body downwards and ready to dive bomb them.

Duluc prepared his sword and scoffed, "Well then we will just have to make him listen now do we?" He informed me. "Get ready he's coming." he shouted next as Dvallin roared out and extended his talon claws outwards and began flying right towards everyone. Who quickly got out of the way, minus Diluc who stood prone in his stance. To then quickly twirling towards the middle of the dragon and slashed his sword against Dvallin right talon and cutting it greatly with a powerful slashed, while then quickly rolling away from the dragon tail as it slammed against the platform and continued flying off.

Venti held his hat as he then quickly raised his bow up and took aim and began firing charge homing shots with his anemo arrows. That followed and glowed through the darkened skies as they spiral and twirled around each other as they chased and followed the Dragon across the skies. With him spinning, twirling and even folding his wings close to himself in order to dodge and evade the green arrows- however much as he tried to escape the homing shots. They still managed to scrape and scratch across his scales and wings. Causing some minor damage. He let out a loud roar as energy began gathering around his mouth and began firing off an anemo like vortex towards everyone!

Jean and Diluc ran towards the west side of the platform, while Aether and Venti ran towards the east side of the platform. As Venti quickly flicked his wrist upwards and summoned air currents for the four of them to use their gliders to fly over to the next platform over, so they could evade the wind vortex that was heading their way! When they did and got away safely, they felt the platforms they landed on tremor and shake from Dvallin flying by them. Jean then calls out after landing and bending down on her knees. "We need to find a way to make him grounded! Diluc, Aether and I are useless in this fight if he keeps flying around like that!"

Venti shouted back, "I know- Diluc had the right idea though!" which has the red man humming. "If we damage Dvallin's talons enough, we can force him to land and try to recover. His weakness is his talons! He rarely lands, so he barely gives his feet any real time to be used." Continued the bard as he and Aether whip their attention Dvallin as he began charging right for them. Swaying and swinging his body left to right, summoning large anemo like orbs that flew and spiral right towards the two of them. "Traveler watch out!" Venti shouted and quickly grabbed and formed an arrow with his bow and tried firing them towards the orbs.

In which the arrow only managed to hit one of them and had it erupt and explode- while the other came crashing down towards the platform. As Aether quickly runs out of the way and jumps from the explosion, a strong and powerful gale ripped and cut the spot he was standing on, as the boy quickly rolled upright and slid across the platform and saw Dvallin coming right for him and Venti!

"You fools will regret challenging me, nor will I let you persuade me into thinking humans are kind creatures!" HThe dragon shouted as he came crashing towards the platforms, extending his talons and then gripping tightly against the edge of the platform. Making Venti and Aether jump lightly from the sudden motion. This had Jean shouting.

"Diluc let's go" She then ran forward back to where the gust of winds were placed around the entire battlefield and platforms. She used it to fly back upwards and returning to the platform that Aether and Venti were on, with Diluc doing the same and both of them look towards the dragon and saw him raising his head and neck upwards gathering a lot of elemental energy into his mouth and throat that it was glowing green.

Ather wiped his sword and took advantage of Dvallin's perched form and ran over towards his talons. With Venti, shaking his head and adjusting his hat as he turned and saw the traveler running towards the Dragon's talons. He hardened his eyes and began firing off arrows upon arrows towards the Talon, knowing full well Dvallin will take awhile to charge up that move of his.

Aether, after getting close to Dvallin's right talon, quickly slashes across the outside of the ankle area and feels his sword clashing and scraping across the surprisingly soft tissue of the dragon skin. Seeing slight blood coming out, but not enough to out right damage him or cause him to fall onto the platform. He then twirled and slashed around the back of Dvallin's talon, making sure not to fall off the platform when doing so and cut a bit more on the dragon's feet. He saw Jean landing and rolling forward after judging she was close enough to the platform.

Followed by quickly running forward and doing a forward thrust with Anemo energy spiraling around her sword and blasting it against Dvallin's legs, creating a pretty big gash against the skin. Aether who saw this, smirk and went ahead and moved close while seeing Diluc landing next and running right up to him, as Aether thrust his palm forward and began using his Wind blade skill, having the wind blades spiraling and slashing across and all around Dvallin's talon. Seeing more scraps, cuts and even blood spilling out and falling onto the platform below.

More cuts began appearing as Diluc got close and did an overhead swipe with his sword and slamming it down hard on top of Dvalin's foot, creating a pyro slash when doing so and swirling it with JEan's and Aether's anemo skills. Causing the dragon to suddenly let out a loud roar, interrupting him from letting out one of his powerful skills and felt his entire upper body going heavy and slamming hard and fast against the platform!

Venti swipe away the dust that was created when Dvallin hit the platform, while then gaspin and whipping his attention up towards the dragon forehead. "The crystal!" He exclaimed and then quickly started taking a few steps back, "Everyone! Attack the crystal! The giant purple…pimple thing that is protruding from his forehead!"

"Pimple?" Dulyc repeated and then winced when Venti shouted again in a not in the mood right now.

"YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN DAMMIT! JUST ATTACK THE PURPLE CRYSTAL ON HIS HEAD!"" Venti exclaimed and had Jean snickering softly and quickly ran towards Dvallin's neck and started climbing onto him and scaling his scales to reach his head, with Aether following right behind her as Diluc scoff and shook his head lightly at how brazen the bard was at cursing him like that. AS he ran ahead and then leapt to the top of Dvallin's back neck and started heading right for the crystal.

Aether and Jean soon followed suit as they managed to get on top of Dvallin and started approaching the purple abyssal energy like crystal that had casted and created ruin like magic seals on the dragon. Aether quickly slashes his sword forward but yelps when he feels himself being pushed back as his sword bounced off from it. To then grab Jean's arm, when she tried using her Anemo skill technique, but nearly flew off the dragon head, if it wasn't for Aether being there to grab her in time.

Even Diluc felt his sword being deflected off, while flying backwards from a jumping slash and slide across Dvallin's scales. Gritting his teeth and clicking his tongue, "Okay this is a lot more durable than expected." He then tried slashing hard and fast, summoning a large pyro infused energy bird to destroy the crystal, but only saw it going through it and just signing the damn thing. Instead of having it explode or. " break off completely. "Damn it."

Venti saw this grimace and tried firing off his black hole skill around the crystal and even then and with the sharp wind blades swirling around it. It wasn't making a dent, minus some scratches here and there. Having the boy to lower his bow and grit his teeth, "Seems like the Abyss order were well prepared and made sure that the crystal wouldn't be so easy to destroy." He exclaimed and saw Aether running forward again and using his tornado skill, to hopefully rip the crystal off but like before. Not making a single dent or even having it get pulled or ripped off from the magic seal. "Do…we need to weaken Dvallin in order to weaken the crystal? IF so…then those bastards really are going make us harm and injure Dvallin just to save him."

Venti then saw the three quickly hopping off when they felt Dvallin coming back to his senses and almost threw them off his head, as he quickly flapped his wings and flew off. As Aether, Jean and Diluc slid across the platform and got close to Venti, Aether exclaiming. "Didn't feel like we made a dent with that crystal." He then turned towards Venti. "Do you think there might be another way?" Aether asked and saw Venti biting his lower lip as they watched Dvallin, firing off some energy towards multiple platforms, indicating he was ready to blow them off them and spiral down below.

"Quickly, before it activates!" Venti shouted and ran westward with everyone as they began flying and using the wind currents to reach towards a platform that was infused with Anemo cracks and wind blades, causing them to wince and gently hiss out in pain as they felt their clothing and skin getting slightly cut and slashed at as they hurried their way over to safety. "I noticed and even my blackhole didn't do much damage." Venti began saying as they rushed their way to safety.

"Something tells me we are going have to weaken Dvallin greatly, if we want to damage and get rid of that crystal of his on his forehead." He huffed as thye landed safely, with everyone nearly staggering forward and adjusting their footing while quickly turning around and facing Dvallin as he made his way to the center of the arena. "Don't want to hurt him more than we have too- but those bastards, made sure the crystal will possibly be tied to Dvallin's life force."

Jean clicked her tongue and adjusted her sword, "if we have to weaken Dvallin just to weaken the crystal. Then we have no other choice, much I don't want to weaken our protector- there are things that are out of our hands." She then hardened her look. "So be it, let us not hold back anymore and give it our all to save him."

Diluc nodded as he rolled his sword about and aimed it forward. "She's right, we can't be complacent anymore. Our lives are at stake and Mondstat will be forever in danger if we don't show full force against him. IF we want to succeed than we must do things, we won't be comfortable with." He added and the two of them quickly spun apart from one another as Dvallin tried to once more pierce and stabbed everyone with his talons, only for Jean to slash across the flat part of Dvallin's left talon, with Diluc doing the same to his right one as blood gushed out and flew onto the floor below them and the two of them quickly standing back to back with each other and showing a great stance of being Knights.

This had Venti and Aether staring at them and then at each other, with Venti closing his eyes and nodding his head. "Then we should do the same," he then wink, cracking a joke. "And I did say Dvallin needs spanking for throwing a tantrum right? So no problems here for me!" he chuckled out and ran forward and started taking perch near the edge of the platform, grabbing his bow and resume to firing off multiple anemo infused homing shots towards Dvallin as he soar through the skies and doing his damndest to dodge and evade the arrows as everyone can see some blood flying off from the dragon's feet. Along with the dragon screeching out like an eagle from some of the arrows piercing and coming into contact with his ribs and sides.

This had Aether watching and seeing everyone doing what they must to, in order to save the dragon. He doesn't like the idea of killing a beast like that let alone a guardian of Mondstat. But seeing how they needed to weaken and have the dragon's life force near death, just to destroy the crystal? Then so be it…although his mind began roaming into other thoughts of dealing with the crystal. Which was…"Wait a minute?" then flashes of memory course through his head when he first fought Dvallin back in Mondstat and took note of the Crystal back then too.

"It was flashing when I was shooting those anemo bullets at Dvallin earlier. If so…then maybe we don't have to actually weaken or injure Dvallin to near death. But possibly…" "Wait everyone, I think I know how to stop this." He exclaimed, alerting everyone towards Aether as he pointed to the crystal. "Back then when I first fought Dvallin and protected Mondstat. The crystal kept glowing whenever I made contact to his body or slashing at him." He then looks to Venti. "Venti, fire more homing shots, I want to see something."

Venti nodded his head wondering if the Traveler had figured something out? He went ahead and aimed his Anemos bow and began firing his homing shots towards the flying dragon. Who once again did his best to evade and dodge the anemo infused arrows, the traveler who is watching this kept a close eye on Dvallin and the strange purple crystal on the dragon's forehead. He squinted his eyes as he stared and focused on it and then blinked his eyes when one of the arrows managed to hit Dvallin and saw said Crystal flashing briefly from the hit.

"There~" He quickly shouted and pointed towards the crystal as everyone went and focused their gaze on it. While then blinking their eyes when the second arrow struck and saw the crystal glowing briefly again.. "It seems that whenever we strike Dvallin, the crystal itself loses some power and protection to it." Aether and the others shielded themselves when Dvallin flew overhead, then quickly jumped out of the way from some anemo energy orbs that tried to knock them off.

After they recover and stare towards the dragon, they then turn and look at Aether. "I believe if one of us can get on top of Dvallin while he's down and recovering. We can strike the crystal while injuring him. Long enough for us to go and cut it or break it completely." Aether said and then turned towards Venti. "But I also don't want to hurt Dvallin anymore than we have too. So Venti, do you think you could keep an eye on how much energy Dvallin has?" He asked.

Venti grinned and nodded his head, "No worries., Dvallin can take a beating there will be no way for him to go keeling over that easily." He then held his hat as they heard more anemo orbs firing in their directions, followed by some vortex winds coming from his mouth. They quickly ran eastward and used the currents to glide over to a safer platform. When they did and adjusted themselves, Venti bending down from landing quickly stood upright and then dust himself off. "But we should do this quickly, the longer we stay and fight, the more energy we will be wasting." He said.

Jean turn to Diluc and nods, "Diluc I think we can knock down Dvallin long enough for Traveler to slice the that crystal with a clean swipe." She raised her sword and saw the red-haired man resting his claymore over his shoulder. Knowing exactly what Jean wanted to do and smiled.

"The usual combo attack?" Diluc asked and saw Jean smirking and nodding her head as she then turned her sword and began focusing a lot of elemental energy as an anemo-like magic circle surrounded her. Giving off healing properties to everyone and gathering a lot of winds. Diluc went over and stood behind JEan as he then swung his claymore outwards and started charging up Pyro energy through his sword. "Traveler, get ready to get onto Dvallin's back. This move of ours we haven't done for a long time- so it will render us useless for a while. So take this opportunity to destroy that crystal in one fell swoop."

Venti smirk, "heh seems like the grandmaster and ex member of the knights has quite a powerful move up their sleeve." Venti then turned and faced Aether. "I will put Dvallin onto the platform so they can knock him down, you take that chance and strike down the crystal." Venti then raised his right hand and Aether began feeling power flowing through him and seeing his sword glowing brightly. "I am gonna infuse your sword with Anemo energy, my anemo energy. So that it will be the sharpest weapon of the terrifying tales of the winds at your disposal. Strong enough to cut anything down." He said towards Aether as he finished up giving him his power.

Watching the Traveler staring in awe at how much power had entered his sword, while then facing Venti who winked. "Plus, having those girls added into your party, also helped enhance the strength and power of my energy." They then turned and saw Dvallin on the other side of the arena ready to come swooping down and piercing them with his talons. "Alright, get ready!" Venti shouted and Aether nodded as he began walking towards the southern part of the platform they were standing on. In order to get a running start.

Venti quickly raised his anemos bow and began firing rapidly towards Dvallin, "Hey Dvallin- I dare you to try and take us down in one fell swoop! Like how your previous attempts failed, I bet you can't even land a hit on us you dumbass dragon." Venti laughed out towards the dragon and felt the dragon presence shifted and was appalled for Venti challenging him like that.

The dragon let out a terrifying roar and decided to infuse his talons with anemo energy, causing Diluc and Venti to widen their eyes and then Diluc lowering his eyes halfway and then glared towards Venti slowly. "Really? Since when can he do that!" He demanded an answer as he continued focusing and gathering Pyro energy into his sword while Venti chuckled sheepishly and embarrassingly shrugging his arms and shoulders.

"W…Well, he is a wind dragon, I wouldn't be surprised if he coil do that or not." Venti then cleared his throat and refocused on firing his arrows at Dvallin, in order to injure the dragon enough to weaken the crystal but also having him collapse and needing to land on their platform so that Aether can get on his head and cleanly destroy the crystal without much troubled. "Here he comes!" shouted the bard.

Duiluc and Jean got ready as they saw Dvallin soaring right towards them once more, having miniature wind like needles firing over towards the group. Venti whnt ahead and began firing his arrows towards the needles, then followed up by firing his black hole like skill. Watching the rest of the needles being sucked and pulled into them. The bard then turns sideways and shouts, "Traveler now!" Vent shouted and saw him nodded and swiped his sword outwards and began running forward!

"Diluc!" Jean shouted and activated her skill and watched the man running forward and near the edge of her magical circle, feeling power being imbued into his sword as he spun around once, then twice, and then the third time and at the right timing- slashes upwards and hitting Dvallin chin when the dragon got close and fired off his Pyro hawk like skill as it threw Dvallin's head upwards and screeching out in pain. As Diluc landed he then quickly spun in place and slashes across Dvallin's right talon's ankles, having the dragon hiss out and throwing his head down exposing the crystal as the barrier surrounding it disappeared "Traveler!" Jean shouted.

"AHAAAA!" Aether battle cried out as he began spinning and twirling in midair as he came falling straight down towards Dvallin's forehead and before the dragon could even try and move his head upwards. He felt it being forced down by a small black hole vortex courtesy of Venti.

"Nop, you're not going anywhere." Venti exclaimed as he lifted his head up and saw Traveler disappearing and reappearing in a bright green light as he slashes forward and makes a clean slice through the purple crystal as anemo energy surrounds it and breaks it apart and off from the dragon head. The traveler then landed onto the platform, quickly stabbing his sword into it and spinning himself around while on his knees sliding to a stop, while then lifting his head up and seeing the strange crystal falling and then shattering into a million pieces and vanishing into thin air.

This had caused the dragon to let out a powerful and painful cry of pain and thrashing his body about before his talons let go of the platform and slid himself off said platform. Bashing his chin against it and proceeds to fall downwards and below the clouds. Causing everyone there to feel energy surrounding them and then a flash of light blinding them and sending them back to Dvallin lair.

Xxx

Meanwhile at Mondstat, where a war had broken out and took place. We see everyone panting and breathing heavily, some of them badly wounded or injured from the onslaught of monsters that were coming their way. While some were finishing off the last remaining few that survived or were trying to run away. With Kauar running forward with Rosaria and both of them leaping into the air and coming hurtling downwards towards the large armored Hilichurl and slicing it into two, causing it to fall onto its knees and then slamming down hard against the ground.

The two slid across the grassy and battle torn ground, as they were covered at ome blood and bruises as well some dirt. Their clothing slightly worn and torn from the many monsters they had to defeat and face off against. Their attention then whipped upwards and widened their eyes when they saw in the distance of Dvallin coming and falling down from the skies near his lair, as this also caught the attention of the other knights and people of Mondstat who stopped and watched the dragon falling into his domain.

"DVALLIN HAS FALLEN, THAT MEANS THE MISSION HAS FAILED!" Came one of the Abyss mages, causing Kayae and Rosaria to turn around and face the Abyss mage who was left. "You…you humans will pay for this! We may not have taken out your city, but at least that means the dragon has been killed and defeated! Everyone retreat!"Shouted the mage and disappeared immediately followed by other straggling mages who too also disappeared from sight and left the battlefield.

The entire area went silent as they just heard the rattling of the rain beginning to enter the area and pouring down onto the battlefield, with small winds blowing and howling through the air. Kayae and Rosaria waited for a couple of minutes before determining that they were safe and sound. Then the captain let out a soft sigh of breath and plop himself down onto the ground and smiled.

"It's over…we won." He then raised his sword high and fired off ice crystals into the air and had them clash and explode against one another. Then followed by loud roars of cheers coming from the knights and companions that came and helped with the fight.

"We won, the battle is over, we are victorious!" Came a male knight from the castle walls as more cheers and roars of delight echoed through the entirety of Monistat. Rosaria who is with KAyae, laughed softly and put her weapon away and crossed her arms lifting up her breasts, as her bra can be visibly seen between her arms as her top has ripped off during her battles.

"Hmph…glad everything turned out alright." She said and then turned her attention towards the direction of Dvallin's lair. "Glad that the grandmaster and her team manage to satiate and free Dvallin from whatever curse he was under."

"Heh, knowing who is with the grandmaster currently, I say they are probably celebrating and having an upbeat chipper chat of their victory." Kayae laughed and decided to lay his back against the ground and rest. "Mea time, let's take it easy and listen to the sound of the victorious rain."

Xxx

Back with the others and outside of Dvallin's domain, we see Venti in front of the downed dragon and using his Archon powers to go and heal up the dragon from all the injuries he had sustained form their battle as well removing any corruption that is still plaguing him. Venti smiled and removed his hand and then patted Dvallin's snout. "There we go…how do you feel buddy?" He asked and saw the dragon raising his head and slowly opening his eyes. "Are you feeling a lot better?"

The dragon took a moment to adjust and ease the soreness out of him, he stretched out his wings and flapped them softly. Blowing some winds into the group's direction as they shielded themselves and smiling softly at seeing the dragon seemingly doing a whole lot better. ""Feel sore but that is to be expected from what I went through." Said the dragon while he stared down at everyone. ""All of you took risks to come and save me, despite what I did to the city and nearly destroyed and killed everyone there. Yet, you still came back for me, to free me of the Abyss order's hold…why?"

JEan rested a hand over top of her breasts as she steps forward and said. "Do we need a reason to come and help out a friend? Especially the guardian who's been watching over Mondstat for 500 years?" She then swung her arm downand tilt her head with a smile. "IT will be wrong for the Grandmaster, not come and aid the very symbol of Mondstat and having him be killed."

VVenti laughed and then said, "plus your my friend Dvallin. I will never abandon a friend who is in need or looks to be troubled. That's what friends do." He said and then rested a hand on his hip. "But that brings the question of the abyss. You know why they placed the curse on you, let alone- why did they want you to be killed or attack Mondstat?"

"I do not know, all I know is that the princess of theirs is leading the charge and has plans for every region out there. The world itself." Dvallin said and had everyone lowering their eyes halfway with Diluc whispering out princess? "I cannot say who the princess is, I only saw them briefly before they disappeared from my sight. All I know is…she is targeting something, something that is beyond my understanding." Though after he said that he turned towards Aether, their eyes met and the boy looked down in thought wondering what he said earlier when they first fought back in Mondstat…

"You have the same eyes as hers, but yours is full of hope and curiosity, while hers is full of darkness and sorrow. What connections do you have with her?" His words echoed in Aether's head as the boy closed his eyes and rested a hand against his own chin.

""We have the same eyes, yet hers is full of darkness and sorrow…is, it couldn't be? Lumine?" Aether thought to himself and stared back towards Dvallin as he continued to speak towards everyone and standing upright.

"Anyway fret not everyone, even though they were using me to guide you all away from Mondstat. They sent an army to the city in hopes of destroying it and killing everyone there." He exclaimed, surprising Jean greatly and then relaxed and let out a breath of air when he assured them all. "No worries…while coming back to my senses I felt the wind of the storm. The battle against the Abyss order army has been won, there some injuries but nothing too serious. But considering what we all went through. I believe rest is in order."

He then began flapping his wings and taking to the skies, "Thank you all for rescuing me…I shan't not forget what thee has done for me. Goodbye and safe travels back to Mondstat." He then let out a roar and flew overhead causing everyone to shield themselves and smiling through closed eyes. While then looking up and spinning around to see Dvallin disappearing into the clouds and skies, as they wave him off and saying their goodbyes.

"If the Abyss ever come again to bother you Dvallin, make sure to blow them away and tell their asses to not bother you anymore!" Venti shouted and lower his hands down to his sides and smiled brightly. Everything began calming down now and the winds going back to normal, the rain storm started to slowly approach the domain. Having everyone looking up and staring towards the dark clouds. Venti smirked as the first rain drop landed on his forehead and slid down. He then lifted a leg up and happily spun around and grinned to everyone. "Well then I say that mission is a success!" He then clapped his hands and snicker.

"How about we head back to Dilucs mansion and celebrate and have some amazing drinks! On me!" He exclaimed and began running ahead, having Diluc to shake his head and grabbing the bard's cape before he could run any further and had him lifted up softly into the air and then falling onto his ass when Diluc let go of him.

"I don't think so-" The red-haired man said and began walking forward and putting his sword away. "Someone still owes me a large sum of bills and mora for all the drinks he has been drinking." He then raised his hand and chuckled. "The Grandmaster will have a freebie on me, traveler. I will give you an alcohol free drink." Diluc said and had Jean shaking her head, but laughing as she followed the man.

"I think resting at your mansion will be good enough for me. We had a long day, the trip back to Mondstat will still take a day to reach." She said and was walking behind the man, as she goes and fixed her hair and putting it back into a ponytail, while she then goes and grabs her shirt and trying her best to pulling it back upwards and covering her large and exposed cleavage and top of her breasts from prying eyes…but also away from Aether, despite he probably had gotten couple of good looks.

Venti huffed after getting up and dusting himself, "the nerve of him." Venti muttered and shook his head. "Just because I have possession of this boy's body. Doesn't mean I am literally 16 years old. I am a 500 year old Archon here!" He shouted and then sighed as Aether laughed and chuckled behind him. Having Venti turn around and face him, smirking. "Anyway traveler! Amazing job back there as well perspective too. I say everything has worked out astonishedly wouldn't you say?"

Aether nodded and looked down suddenly, "although." He softly said and shook his head, "I am worried of what Dvallin told me back in Mondstat." He suddenly said and then felt Venti reaching a hand out and resting it onto his shoulder. Having a sympathetic look.

"About that person having the same eyes as you right? You're worried about ti being your sister right?" Venti asked as Aether nodded. " know…" he then looks upwards as the scenery changes and moves over towards Lumine, who is staring out to Dvallin's lair, letting the rain hit her and rhythm hitting and soaking her hair as she stares with her golden eyes. "I am sure wherever she is Traveler…she's also looking for you and is worried for you too. And if the abyss does have her under their control. Then I am sure…you two will be reunited and you will save her."

Lumine then closes her eyes and turns away from the lair and starts walking forward as dark smoke surrounds her body and forms as she disappears out of thin air, returning to the abyss realm of where the Abyss order lives and hides within the shadows. With Dvallin saved and Mondstat succeeded in surviving a war of monsters heading their way. What adventures await Aether in the future? With mysterious eyes giving a feel of stars and shadows glooming over in the entrance of the lair, curiosity peeking their interest in the young traveler swiftly disappears, waiting for the right moment to introduce themselves to the young boy.

As Aether's journey to seek out his sister Lumine continues and his sights now set on Liyue, along with more girls waiting to join him and becoming his companion. As the Traveler's Adventures continues…

To be continued…