Genshin Impact: Mondstadt Alter

Act 1 Chapter 5.1:

Moving Out

I kilt my clothes one by one and put them in my bag. As I don't have much belonging here, to begin with, my preparation for leaving doesn't overeat of a time. I even tidied and cleaned up everything in the room I was using before packing.

There's an odd feeling in my chest. Everything feels so short and lengthy at the same time. I suppose that's because, despite being here around a month, there were a lot of things that happened. I don't want to recall them just yet since I'm not in the mood for reminiscing.

Not to mention, I encountered difficulties convincing everyone against me to move back to my own. Although I knew that, my decision came out of nowhere for everybody else. Fortunately, expecting opposition helped me immensely, and nearly everyone agreed.

"Are you done packing your stuff?"

Considering my door has been wide open since I woke up, having a guest or two should be expected. I'm preparing to leave as I close the wardrobe while the person in question stands at the door.

"I think so." I replied, picking up the bag filled with my outfits.

"... You know, I want to present you the idea of staying here a little longer again, especially when some bad people target you."

"Rest assured. I promised I wouldn't do anything foolish."

"... Yeah, but if you ever change your mind, you're always welcome here."

It's kind of funny that he said that while I was holding my stuff.

"I appreciate it."

The Seneschal remains quiet until someone else comes along. I finished everything by the time he came, and I could talk to him face to face, unlike the last time we spoke.

"Ah, It seems I arrived just in time."

"Cardinal Calvin, do you have what I asked?"

"Yes, I have it here." Cardinal Calvin replied as he showed us a box in his hands.

"What's that?"

Cardinal Calvin turns to me, "Morgan, it's time for you to take this. These are your and your parents' belongings that we could salvage."

I silently take the box he hands to me.

"Initially, I wanted to give it to you earlier, but the Seneschal suggested waiting for a proper time. I hope you understand."

"He had his point. Regardless, thank you for collecting these for me. I didn't know you guys would bother to find our stuff."

"Don't mention it. I hope they'll be of use to you in any way." The Seneschal shook his head.

After a moment of gazing at the box, I walk out of the Church with the two and some other sisters.

…

"I am grateful for everything, everyone. I'll do my best to repay your good deeds one day." I bowed deeply to them.

"I appreciate your gesture, Morgan. However, from here and out, focus on keeping yourself safe. While I know there are still guards patrolling the city, there's nothing wrong with taking an extra measure by being cautious."

"Mm, I understand."

"Morgan, we'll take turns to visit you, just to check if you're alright or in case you need anything. That's okay, right?" Sister Maria proposed.

I raise an eyebrow, "Sure? That'll be great if checking on me wasn't a bother for you all."

She wags her head, "Don't worry about it."

The rest of the nuns smile and nod along with her in agreement.

Refusing didn't appear to be a viable choice, so I opted to agree to her proposal. Allowing them some leeway for a bit shouldn't pose any harm to either of us. Moreover, I genuinely intend to avoid any potential dangers for a while.

"Anyway, take care from here on, Morgan. It was a pleasure having you here." Cardinal Calvin extended his arm.

"The honor is mine, Cardinal Calvin. Words can't express my gratitude towards everyone." I shook his hand and let go soon after.

I pick up the box and the bag under my feet to prepare to leave. Looking at each of them, I bow for the last time.

"I'll be leaving then. Once again, thank you everyone. I hope you have a nice day."

"Be careful on your way back, son." The Seneschal bobbed his head with curved lips

I nod before stepping away. The moment I got to the plaza, I saw some people around there, and my eye caught an older knight waiting, standing near the anemo archon statue. He's facing the Barbatos monument, so he doesn't see me coming down the stairs.

It's rare to find Captain Hao here at this time, making me curious about the reason for his presence. While I initially considered it might be a coincidence as I was heading back home, there was no rush on my part. Considering it had been a while since our last conversation, I decided to greet him.

"Good morning, Captain. How are you doing?"

He shifts his attention to me, "Oh, Morgan. Good morning to you as well. I await your arrival, actually."

"You were? Are you here to escort or something?"

"Yeah, you guessed correctly. Grand Master Varka told everything that happened to everyone in HQ, and when I heard you're going to live on your own, I assigned myself to do the job." Captain Hao asserted as he crossed his arms.

"I see. That explains why you're here."

"Well, I couldn't just do nothing after hearing that. I find it hard to believe that someone is trying to send people to kill you, not to mention sending a mercenary, to make it worse. You didn't do anything that could upset someone or something, did you?"

"No clue. You can at least trust me on that." I couldn't help but shrug my shoulders after being asked that question many times.

"I apologize. I didn't mean anything with that. It is just very much impossible for someone to want you dead for no reason, don't you think?"

"I couldn't agree more, especially since that likely wouldn't be the first and the last time it happened."

"Let's hope that it was." He paused, "Despite knowing that, you're still going to move out?"

"Didn't you hear anything from the Alder Knight?"

The Head of the Outrider throws me a curious look.

"I did, but not from her directly. And just like the rest, I find it hard to believe your words that there are spies in Mondstadt, particularly in the KoF. Do you mind elaborating on what made you suspicious of us?"

"I have no intention of making enemies out of you, but I guess it's too late now." I admitted, lowering my gaze, "My instinct often told me one or more people are watching my moves whenever and wherever I am."

This time is not an exception, either.

"Ah, I thought you had something more concrete to support your claim."

"I'm sorry…"

"Rest assured, kid, no offense taken. Despite your suspicions, I'm still inclined to assist you no matter what. I also believe you mean nothing ill against me or the KoF but rather to certain people." He said while placing his hand on my shoulder, followed by a smile.

I nodded.

"Let's get moving then, shall we?"

The two of us leave the plaza and make our way to the destination. Since my home is quite a distance from the Church, it will take some time for us to reach there. During our journey, Captain Hao initiates casual conversation to pass the time.

I'm hesitant to share the sensation of being observed on our way with him. No matter how often it occurs, I find it challenging to become accustomed to it, specifically when the intent behind those stares is malicious. Yet, keeping silent about it may lead to a growing unease within me.

It's not that I don't trust him, but-

Or am I?

"Morgan!" Captain Hao shouted.

"Oh, yes? Did you say something?"

"Stop wandering off. Your house is right here."

"Hmm?" I babbled before realizing I walked past my own damn house, "Oh."

I catch up to him as I carry my belongings. He tried to push the door, but it didn't budge.

"Well, it's locked. Do you have the door key with you?"

"Uh…" I put down the box and check my pockets to see if I still have the key.

I knew it. I didn't have my key that day, resulting in empty pockets. Upon opening the box, I discover various items inside, though none of them happens to be the key. Suddenly, I recall a possible means of obtaining the door key.

"Please wait here." I said before jogging to the back of the building.

"No problem."

I reach the rear of the house and come upon a tiny garden that my mother once tended to. Regrettably, due to neglect, most plants and flowers have faded away. This garden was primarily her domain, and she seldom enlisted anyone's help except mine when she was occupied with other tasks.

How could I forget about this?

I rapidly shake my head and then lightly slap my face. Moving leisurely, I carefully examine every aspect of the surroundings until I arrive at a cluster of suspended flower pots. Choosing the one situated in the center, I lower it down. Removing the cover beneath the pot, I retrieve the emergency key and restore it to its initial position.

"I'm back with the key."

"Good. It's smart to have a spare key somewhere."

I move to my house entrance and use the key to unlock it before opening the door.

"Please come in, sir." I politely said as I picked my stuff back, "Oh, but since nobody entered this place for a while, it might get a little dusty inside, so watch your steps."

"Sure thing. I suppose that means we'll spend some time cleaning your house." He laughed as he made his way in.

"You don't have to. I-"

"It's alright. I would feel bad knowing I let a young lad clean up an entire house alone."

Captain Hao had already gone into the house before I could say anything. I silently watch his figure from behind and am about to follow along when I hear someone calling out my name from the distance.

"Morgan!"

"Hmm?" I turned my head toward the source of the voice, "Barbara? What brings you here?"

She gasped air for a while before speaking, "I- I'm here to give you that Cardinal Calvin forgot to put in your box." She extended her hand to me.

"Ah, it's my house key." I muttered as I took it.

"Yup! I thought you were stuck outside since you didn't have the key with you, but-" She paused as she gazed at the entrance, "I guess I was wrong."

"No, I appreciate that you handed the key to me this soon. I believed I lost it."

"Hehe, no problem!"

It seems Barbara's presence was noticed by Captain Hao as well since he makes his way back to us.

"I knew I heard a familiar voice. Morning, Barbara. What are you doing here?"

"Good morning to you, Captain. I'm just here to deliver a key that Cardinal Calvin forgot. I suppose you're here to escort Morgan?" She questioned.

"Yeah, things around him suddenly get messy. Leaving him unwatched is a bad idea, even if he's in a safe area."

"I agree. I wonder why anyone's holding a grudge against Morgan. He's not a bad person."

"Well, I doubt whoever is behind it has anything to do with personal reasoning, but I could be wrong." I disputed her prejudice, "Anyway, please make yourself at home, you two. I can serve you some drinks if you want."

"That would be nice, but I think you should postpone that since- you know, your house has accumulated some dust." He reminded me.

"I can help with that!" Barbara joined in.

I was about to stop her as I didn't want to bother her, but Captain Hao interrupted.

"Having an extra hand would be great. You don't have any plans after this?"

The ash-blonde-haired girl wags her head, "No, I happen to be free, so I can spare some time to help you." She smiled.

"How coincidence! We'll make a quick work out of this with your help, don't you think so, Morgan?"

"I guess so…"

"Wonderful! Then we should get into it soon." She said as she clapped her hands together.

I let Captain Hao and Barbara enter my house first and follow them soon after. It hasn't been that long since I have been away from home, yet I feel nostalgic coming back here. I'm holding my breath as the feeling surges through my body, and as soon as it stops, I'm not sure how much time has passed.

I shook my head quickly before heading to my room, and I noticed the two inspecting my house like a museum. I don't fault them, considering it's their first visit. Although, my house isn't any fancy.

After putting my bag and the box on my bed, I leave my room and head to the kitchen to fetch the cleaning stuff. Barbara approaches me when she sees I have a broom and a duster in my hands.

"Oh, should I do the sweeping?"

"Ok. I'll dust the shelves and table meanwhile." I nodded as I handed one to her.

The head of the Outrider approaches me as he says, "How about you let me do that? Or do you want me to mop the floor instead?"

I think momentarily, "To be honest, I'm not sure how we will appoint ourselves to do what, but if that is what you want, then sure."

He nods as he takes the duster from my hand.

"Alright, I'll clean the furniture while Barbara sweeps the floor. After that, Morgan will do the mopping. Sounds like a plan?"

"Will do, sir!" The girl responded, while I silently nodded.

They head to their designated spots, and I pause for a moment. I decide to heat some water before assisting them with the cleanup. I return to the kitchen, pick up a pot, and fill it with enough water for all three of us.

I observe Barbara in high spirits, humming while sweeping the floor, oblivious to my presence. Considering my modest kitchen size, I ponder how she remains unaware of me until I put a pan on my stove.

"Morgan, please say something! I didn't notice you were here." She jumped for a second, "Why are you here? What are you cooking?"

"Sorry, you seemed to be enjoying yourself, so I didn't dare to interrupt. As for what I'm cooking, I'm cooking water."

"Eh? Do you mean you're boiling water?"

"Isn't it the same?" I joked. I guess it was terrible, so I brushed it off. "Forget it. Did something happen?"

She continues her duty and replies, "I- it's nothing! I just happen to be in a good mood today."

"Hmm…" I sensed she hesitated to tell me, so I pry no further.

Neither of us speaks, and we direct our attention to various matters. I feel I should keep the conversation going, but I find it hard to do so for some reason. After ensuring the fire was stable and covering the pot with a lid, I politely excused myself to Barbara.

"Alright, I'll clean and tidy in another room. I'll leave you-"

"Wait, Morgan!" She stopped me from leaving.

"Mm?"

"Oh, no. On second thought, it was nothing." Her voice was low.

I can only tilt my head from her quick-paced emotions from happy to gloomy, merely because of my presence. It raises my worry about what she has to say to me.

"Are you sure? Your expression says otherwise to me. If you have something to say, feel free to do so." I gently convinced her before adding, "It's not like I'm going to bite you or anything, am I?"

Oh lord, I should stop doing that.

She giggles, "Okay, okay. Maybe I wasn't so subtle about it, but it's alright if you don't want to speak about it."

"Speak your mind. What do you have to say?"

She stops sweeping and prepares to voice, "I'd like to know what you were talking with mo- I mean, the Alder Knight and the Seneschal the other day."

I had suspicions she would ask me about it, and I'm surprised I was correct. Also, I wonder why she was curious about the topic. At that time, I knew the two were against my choice, but they still agreed to it even though they were reluctant about it. I guess that means I was inconsiderate about their concern.

Dammit, there's no point regretting it now.

"Oh, so that's what you want to talk about."

"Ah, sorry! Maybe I'm too nosy about your business, so you don't need to-" She frantically waved her hands.

"No, no, all good. Don't worry about it. Why are you questioning about it, anyway? Did something happen?"

"You see, a few minutes after you left the Seneschal's office, I returned there since I had a matter to talk with him. And when I got there, they were arguing with each other. But they brushed me off when I asked why, so I wonder if you know anything." She recounted as she fiddled with her fingers.

"I see. I could be wrong, but I guess that was my fault."

"Eh? Are you sure?" She got even more curious, "What did you do, Morgan? It was rare to see them get worked up like that."

"Well, they didn't seem happy with my decision to live alone and tried to convince me to stay, but I'd say I made up my mind." I explained to her what seemed to be obvious.

While it might not encompass the complete truth, I don't have the authority to disclose more than what I've already mentioned if they intended to keep it from her.

"That makes sense." Barbara solemnly nodded, "Sister Maria, your mother, was a commendable nun. I often witnessed the Seneschal acknowledging and commending her for her diligent efforts. While I lack solid evidence regarding the Alder Knight, I sense a genuine fondness for you on her part. It's understandable they demanded you stay, considering both hold a favorable opinion of you."

I can feel a tint of jealousy in her tone, along with the help of my sonar. But, what exactly does she envy? Mrs. Frederica's opinion of me?

"Um, that's such a high praise, even from you, Barbara."

"Oh, I suppose you're right, haha." She awkwardly scratched her cheek, "I was just speaking my mind. But I have to wonder why you are persistent about this."

"I just feel bad for bothering to live with you and everyone taking care of me. I owe you and everyone plenty."

"You didn't bother anyone, Morgan. If anything, many people from the Church of Favonius love having you." She smiled gently.

"Is that so?" I said skeptically, "Unfortunately, the decision was made. Let's just go back to cleaning, shall we?"

"Ri- right. Thank you for telling me, Morgan."

"Don't mention it." I bobbed my head before giving her a last glance and leave.

The three of us proceeded to continue cleaning my house until noon.

A/N: Trying my best to squeeze some time to write in my tight schedule. I'll probably take a break next week or two, so please look forward to it until then!

Thank you for reading, and carry on!