"I just returned from Mondstadt; I had no idea Aether accepted a commission," said Momon, his voice carrying a faint trace of concern.
Katheryne tilted her head slightly, her neutral expression unwavering. "It's not unusual for Adventurers' Guild members to take on tasks independently, especially those with Aether's reputation. But this one seemed urgent."
Momon folded his arms, his masked face turned toward the ground as he pondered the situation. While it was indeed normal for guild members to accept commissions separately, what puzzled him was the fact that Aether, his usual partner, had taken it without consulting him. That was unlike Aether, especially given their mutual trust and teamwork.
"Did he go alone?" Momon asked, his tone sharper this time.
Katheryne nodded. "Yes or maybe Paimon went with him. He didn't indicate he would bring anyone along.
Momon's fingers drummed lightly on his forearm. Aether was strong and resourceful, no doubt, but there was an underlying unease that Momon couldn't shake. The mention of the Abyss Order's involvement only deepened his suspicion.
"So, which direction did he head?" Momon asked again, his gaze now fixated on Katheryne as though demanding every detail.
"He went northeast," Katheryne replied, pointing toward the distant mountain ranges. "Near Chenyu Vale. That's where the Treasure Hoarders and Abyss Order were last sighted."
Momon turned his gaze toward the horizon, his mind racing. "This must have been very important to him—important enough to accept the commission without hesitation. Did he feel this was personal? Or is he trying to prove himself for some... misguided reason?"
The thought unsettled Momon. Aether was skilled, but reckless bravery in the face of the Abyss Order could lead to disastrous consequences.
"I hope he isn't doing this out of pride," Momon muttered under his breath, loud enough for Katheryne to catch the tail end of his words.
"Mister Momon, should I inform the Guild that you'll follow up on this commission?" Katheryne asked, her voice steady but carrying a hint of curiosity.
"Yes," Momon replied without hesitation. "Let them know I'll handle it personally. I'll find Aether and ensure he's safe."
Katheryne smiled faintly. "The Adventurers' Guild is grateful for your dedication, Mister Momon. Please, take care."
Momon studied the map, his crimson eyes glowing faintly beneath his mask as he memorized the marked location. Katheryne's "X" gave him a starting point, but he knew Liyue's sprawling wilderness would make locating Aether and Paimon a challenge. Time was of the essence, and he couldn't afford distractions.
He raised his hand to initiate teleportation when a mocking laugh interrupted him.
"Hahaha, well, well, look who we have here."
Momon froze, slowly turning his head toward the source of the voice. Standing there, arms crossed with an insufferably smug look on her face, was none other than Mona Megistus. Her starry cape billowed slightly in the breeze, and her confident stance made it clear she intended to have his attention.
"…Oh, it's you," Momon said flatly. He turned back to his map as though she weren't even there. "I don't have time for this. I have to leave."
Mona's expression faltered at his dismissive tone, and she quickly stepped forward, placing herself directly in his line of sight. "He-Hey! Don't just ignore me like that!"
Momon sighed, visibly annoyed, but didn't bother looking at her. "Mona, I'm busy. Go lecture someone else about their 'fate' or whatever it is you do."
Her cheeks puffed out in indignation. "Excuse me?! Do you even know how rare it is to be in the presence of the Mona Megistus? You should consider yourself lucky!"
Momon waved her off without a second glance. "Lucky. Sure. I'll add that to the list of things I don't care about right now."
Mona stomped her foot, her cape swirling with the motion. "Unbelievable! What could possibly be more important than hearing the wisdom of the stars?!"
"I have to go help Aether and Paimon now. Goodbye," said Momon curtly, turning his back on Mona without so much as a second glance.
Mona's indignant voice quickly followed. "Wait! I overheard your little chat with Katheryne about Aether and Paimon venturing north. So, I'll help."
Momon stopped mid-step but didn't turn around. "Help?" he repeated, his tone skeptical.
Before he could protest, Mona raised her hand, and her Vision glowed with an ethereal light. In an instant, a shimmering Hydro bubble enveloped both of them. Momon's surroundings warped and swirled as the teleportation spell whisked them away.
The bubble burst with a soft splash, depositing them near a serene waterfall cascading into a clear river at the edge of Chenyu Vale. The gentle roar of the water filled the air, and the crisp scent of nature surrounded them.
"Hehe," Mona smirked, adjusting her hat triumphantly. "What do you think of my power now? Pretty impressive, right?"
Momon took a moment to orient himself, his crimson eyes scanning their new surroundings. Without even glancing at Mona, he replied bluntly, "Thanks, but I didn't ask, so no reward for you."
The astrologist's smug grin vanished, replaced with an expression of disbelief. "But–"
"Shh." Momon raised a hand to silence her, his posture shifting to alertness. His voice lowered, his tone sharp and focused. "I can sense Abyssal power… It's coming from that cave."
Mona blinked, startled by the sudden change in atmosphere. Before she could respond, Momon leaped from the rocky ledge they stood on. His movements were precise and effortless, landing silently on the riverbank below. The sunlight filtering through the trees gleamed faintly off his dark armor as he moved toward the cave's entrance, which was partially concealed by thick vines and shadows.
Mona sighed, muttering under her breath. "No gratitude at all… Typical." Still, she followed him, using her Hydro-enhanced agility to slide gracefully down the rocks.
As the two approached the cave, the air grew heavy, and an unnatural chill seeped into their surroundings. A faint, pulsing glow emanated from deep within, the unmistakable hue of Abyssal energy.
Momon stopped just outside the cave's mouth, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of his weapon. "Stay close, but don't get in my way," he said without looking at her.
Mona crossed her arms, her pride clearly bruised but her curiosity piqued. "Fine, but don't think I'll just stand by if things get messy. I'll show you how valuable I can be."
The air in the massive chamber was heavy with tension, the metallic clashing of swords ringing out like thunder. The chamber itself was vast and foreboding, its walls lined with eerie carvings depicting ancient battles and calamities. At the far end of the room, a Statue of Barbatos hung upside down, ensnared by thick Abyssal chains. The statue clutched a pulsating orb of dark purple light, its sinister glow casting jagged shadows across the room, filling the space with an oppressive dread.
Near the center of the chamber, Aether stood locked in fierce combat beside a man with blond hair and a dark cape—Dainsleif, his demeanor as sharp as the sword he wielded. Both men faced formidable foes: an Abyss Herald, tall and menacing with glowing blue veins coursing through its body, and an Abyss Lector, draped in dark robes that shimmered with an unsettling, fiery aura.
The Abyss Herald leapt into the air, twisting gracefully as it deflected a sweeping strike from Dainsleif with its elongated blade. Its voice echoed with a metallic resonance. "You shall not interfere with the will of the Abyss!"
As the Herald descended with terrifying speed, it targeted Aether, aiming to skewer him with a blade crackling with Abyssal energy. Aether reacted quickly, raising his sword just in time to block the attack. Sparks flew as their weapons clashed, the force of the blow causing Aether to skid backward slightly. Gritting his teeth, he summoned his Anemo powers, unleashing a powerful gust of wind that sent the Abyss Herald hurtling across the chamber.
"Persistent pest!" hissed the Abyss Herald as it landed, crouching low like a predator preparing to pounce.
Nearby, the Abyss Lector raised its staff, its voice deep and otherworldly. "Burn in the flames of our retribution!" With a wave of its hand, crimson glyphs materialized beneath Aether and Dainsleif, forming fiery runes that began to glow with a dangerous intensity.
"Circles of fire! Move!" shouted Dainsleif, his sharp eyes noticing the runes a fraction of a second before they ignited.
"Aether, watch out!" screamed Paimon from the corner of the chamber, her voice high-pitched with panic as she hovered as far from the fray as possible.
Aether dove to the side just as the runes erupted in towering pillars of flame, the searing heat licking at his heels. Dainsleif rolled in the opposite direction, his movements fluid and precise, narrowly avoiding the deadly fire. The flames consumed the ground where they had stood moments before, leaving blackened scorch marks in their wake.
The Abyss Lector let out a low, mocking laugh. "You mortal are no match for the might of the Abyss! Surrender, and we may grant you a merciful end."
"Save your breath," Dainsleif spat, his voice calm but laced with venom. "The only ones not leaving this chamber alive are you two."
Aether stood and steadied himself, his sword glinting faintly in the purple light of the chamber. His golden eyes narrowed as he glanced between the two Abyssal foes. "We're not done yet."
The Abyss Herald, now recovered, charged again, its blade raised high. At the same time, the Abyss Lector began chanting in a guttural language, summoning swirling orbs of Abyssal fire that hung in the air like deadly stars.
The Abyss Lector snarled, its fiery eyes blazing with fury. "Dainsleif, you treacherous scum! Your days of immortality are over!" Its voice reverberated with a twisted mix of malice and righteousness as it raised its staff, summoning a cluster of flaming orbs. The fireballs floated ominously around it, their molten cores radiating intense heat.
With a sharp motion of its hand, the Abyss Lector unleashed the fireballs, ten blazing projectiles shooting toward Aether and Dainsleif like meteors.
"Move!" Dainsleif commanded, his tone urgent but steady. Both warriors sprinted around the chamber, weaving between pillars and debris as the fireballs detonated one by one behind them. Each explosion rocked the chamber, sending showers of molten stone raining down.
The Abyss Herald, seizing the opportunity, darted in front of Dainsleif with inhuman speed, its twin blades gleaming with Abyssal energy. It slashed downward, aiming for Dainsleif's heart. Reacting instantly, Dainsleif summoned his mysterious power, enveloping himself in a shield of dark, shimmering energy. The Herald's blades struck the barrier with a sharp clang, sparks flying, but the shield held firm.
"You won't cut me down so easily," Dainsleif said coldly, his eyes burning with defiance.
From the side, Aether yelled, "Dainsleif, watch out!" He hurled a Geo Construct with precise aim, the golden structure smashing into the Abyss Herald's torso with a thunderous impact. The Herald let out a guttural growl as the force of the blow sent it hurtling across the chamber, its body slamming into the wall with a loud crack.
Aether didn't let up. "Let's finish this!" he roared, summoning his elemental burst. He channeled his Anemo power into a swirling tornado, its winds howling as it grew in size and strength. The tornado spiraled toward the two Abyssal foes, pulling loose stones and debris into its relentless vortex.
The Abyss Lector raised its staff, chanting in an Abyssal tongue. A shield of roaring flames erupted around it and the fallen Abyss Herald, the barrier deflecting the tornado's force. The flames crackled and hissed as the Anemo winds pushed against them, creating an intense battle of elements.
"Your tricks won't save you!" Aether shouted. He crouched and slammed his fist into the floor with all his might, unleashing a powerful Geo shockwave. The ground cracked and split, golden energy spreading outward in a wide radius. From the edges of the shockwave, massive Geo Constructs erupted, forming an unyielding wall around the Lector and Herald.
The walls closed in, their weight and momentum shattering the Lector's flaming shield. Without its barrier, the Abyssal duo was caught in the full force of Aether's tornado. The raging winds tore through them, flinging the Abyss Herald and Lector upward. Their bodies slammed into the chamber's ceiling with a sickening crunch before the tornado's energy dissipated, dropping them to the stone floor with a heavy thud.
The chamber fell silent, save for the ragged breathing of Aether and Dainsleif. Paimon cautiously floated closer from her hiding spot, her voice trembling. "Did… did you get them?"
Aether wiped the sweat from his brow and kept his sword at the ready. "Not yet," he muttered. "Stay on guard. They're not finished."
Dainsleif's gaze remained fixed on the motionless forms of the Herald and Lector. "They're weakened, but these bunch won't give up."
The two Abyss monsters struggled to their feet, their movements sluggish and pained, but their hatred burned as fiercely as ever. The Abyss Lector's fiery gaze locked onto Aether. "You…" it growled, its voice heavy with anger, but then it faltered. Its eyes narrowed as it seemed to recognize something. "Wait… this power… it's… familiar…"
Aether, still catching his breath, furrowed his brow. "What are you talking about?" he demanded, his grip tightening on his sword.
The Abyss Lector suddenly threw its head back and began laughing—a deep, echoing sound that filled the chamber with an eerie resonance. "Hah…hahaha! So it's you… you are the one!" it crowed, its laughter laced with both glee and madness.
Aether took a step forward, confusion and frustration etched on his face. "What do you mean? What are you talking about?" he shouted, trying to pierce through the cryptic words.
The Abyss Herald placed a clawed hand on the Lector's shoulder. "Enough. We must retreat," it said in a low, commanding voice. It raised its hand and began summoning an Abyssal portal, the swirling dark energy distorting the air around it.
Before they could step through, something shimmered in the air. In an instant, dark blue chokers materialized around their necks, pulsing with a cold, suppressive energy. The chokers constricted, forcing both monsters to stagger and clutch at their throats as though they were being strangled. Their breathing became labored, the portal collapsing before it could fully form.
"What is this…?!" the Abyss Herald rasped, clawing at the choker in a futile attempt to free itself.
"This is your end," came Dainsleif's cold, unyielding voice. He stepped forward, his eyes glowing faintly with a mysterious energy. The power radiating from him was palpable, oppressive, and it resonated with the dark blue energy binding the Abyss monsters.
"You are going nowhere," Dainsleif declared, his tone calm but brimming with menace. His cloak billowed around him, though there was no wind. "These ruins will be your graves."
The Abyss Lector struggled against the choker, its flames flaring weakly as it tried to summon its power. "You won't… get away with this…!" it hissed, though its voice wavered.
Dainsleif's gaze remained unflinching. "Your kind has plagued this world for long enough. Whatever plans you have, they end here."
The chamber shook violently as an unexpected and deafening explosion erupted behind Dainsleif, sending a surge of energy cascading through the air. The force was so intense that Dainsleif was thrown forward, his feet skidding across the stone floor. He managed to regain his balance mid-slide, landing gracefully but with a slight grimace from the impact.
Aether reacted quickly, lunging to grab Dainsleif by the arm to steady himself against the shockwave. The force rippled through them both, scattering loose debris and extinguishing the flickering flames left by the Abyss Lector's earlier attack.
"What the—?!" Aether exclaimed, his eyes darting toward the source of the explosion.
From the shadows, a figure emerged with deliberate, graceful steps. The dim, oppressive light of the chamber revealed a familiar silhouette—a slender frame draped in a cloak adorned with intricate patterns of the Abyss. Her golden hair shimmered faintly, cascading down her back, and her piercing eyes glowed with a soft, otherworldly light.
Aether's breath caught in his throat. His heart, already pounding from the battle, now raced even faster, a mixture of shock, hope, and dread coursing through him.
"No… It can't be…" Aether whispered, his voice trembling.
Paimon floated beside him, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Wha-What?! That girl… she looks just like you! Who is she, Aether?!"
Aether's grip on his sword slackened as he took an unsteady step forward, his voice cracking as he spoke her name.
"Lumine…"
The name echoed in the chamber like a fragile note in the silence.
The figure stopped, her eyes locking onto his. There was a flicker of emotion in her gaze—pain, longing, and something unreadable—but it was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by a stoic calm.
"Aether…" Her voice was soft, almost a whisper, but it carried an unmistakable weight.
Aether's hands trembled, his sword lowering further. "I've been searching for you… all this time. Where have you been? Why—why are you with the Abyss?"
Lumine's eyes flickered with something—pain, perhaps, or hesitation—but it was gone as quickly as it came. She looked away, her gaze settling on the chained statue of Barbatos in the center of the chamber.
"There are things you wouldn't understand, Aether," she said, her voice now colder, more detached.
Lumine's expression hardened, her golden eyes narrowing as she looked at Dainsleif with unmistakable anger. "Why are you with him, Aether? You should never ally yourself with this man. He is my enemy!" Her voice carried a sharp edge, filled with frustration and disdain.
Dainsleif, standing tall and composed despite her venomous words, responded with a cold calmness. "Long time no see, Lumine. It seems your resolve hasn't wavered since our last encounter."
Lumine's fists clenched, her aura flaring with dark energy. "Spare me your pleasantries, Dain. You failed to protect Khaenri'ah 500 years ago. You stood by as it was destroyed. And now, you bear the curse of immortality—a fitting punishment—to wander the land and witness the fate of the people you were sworn to protect. They've become monsters of the Abyss, and it's all because of your failure."
"Enough with this, sister!" Aether's voice cut through the tension like a blade, his frustration and confusion spilling over. "Whatever happened in the past, whatever you believe, this isn't the way."
Lumine's gaze softened briefly as she looked at her twin, but it was fleeting, like the glimmer of a star about to fade. "Aether," she said, her tone quieter now, tinged with a deep sadness, "don't try to stop me. Don't try to stop the Abyss Order."
Her eyes flickered back to Dainsleif, her voice rising once more. "This man—he couldn't even protect the homeland he swore to defend. He now drifts through eternity, cursed to watch Khaenri'ah's ruins and its people, twisted into monsters. He's nothing but a failure clinging to guilt and regret."
Aether stepped forward, his voice trembling with emotion. "Lumine… we're family. None of this matters. Just come back with me—let's go home. Together."
At his words, a bittersweet smile ghosted across Lumine's face. She turned to him, her eyes softening for the briefest moment. "Home... Yes, how sweet that sounds." Her voice, though quiet, was heavy with sorrow. "But I can't, Aether. I can't leave with you for the next world. Not yet. The Abyss must engulf the thrones. Celestia must fall."
She stepped back, her ethereal aura growing darker and more intense. "My war with destiny will not see its end until this corrupt world is set free. You must reach the end of your journey, brother. Only then will you understand. Only then will you see the true nature of this world—the truth that lies beyond the lies of the gods."
The Abyss Herald, standing nearby, raised his hand, summoning an abyssal portal. Its swirling darkness spread through the chamber like a living entity.
"Lumine, wait!" Aether shouted, his voice echoing with desperation as she turned her back to him, her figure framed by the ominous glow of the portal. He surged forward, his arm outstretched to stop her, but before he could reach her, the Abyss Lector stepped into his path, his flaming staff crackling with energy.
"Do not interfere!" the Lector barked, his voice like the roar of a wildfire.
A sudden, deafening whoosh cut through the chamber as a dark violet orb streaked in from the entrance, moving with the force and speed of a thunderbolt. The Abyss Lector, caught completely off guard, didn't even have time to react. The orb slammed into his side with brutal force, sending him hurtling across the chamber like a ragdoll. His body collided with the defiled Statue of the Seven, the sheer impact shaking the entire structure.
The orb detonated on contact, unleashing a powerful shockwave that sent everyone sprawling. Aether shielded Paimon as best he could, while Dainsleif braced himself against the ground. Even Lumine stumbled back, her Abyss Herald protector stepping forward to shield her from the blast. The chamber rumbled violently, cracks snaking across the stone walls as dust and debris filled the air.
"What just happened?" Paimon squeaked, her voice trembling as she peeked out from behind Aether's shoulder.
Aether coughed, his voice steady despite the chaos. "Someone's here… but who?"
Dainsleif narrowed his eyes, his hand tightening around his blade. "That attack came from the outside. Whoever it is, they're powerful enough to destroy the Abyss Lector in one strike."
As the dust began to settle, the room grew eerily quiet. Slowly, the defiled Statue of the Seven came into view—or rather, what was left of it. The once-twisted and ominous effigy now lay shattered into countless pieces, reduced to rubble by the violent explosion.
The Abyss Lector's body was nowhere to be seen. Only a faint trace of ash remained where he had stood moments ago.
"Princess!" the Abyss Herald called out urgently, stepping protectively in front of Lumine. His weapon was raised, his stance tense as he watched the entrance to the chamber with sharp, glowing eyes.
From the smoke-filled corridor, two figures emerged. One was a young woman in a starry hat and robes—Mona, her confident smirk intact despite the chaos. Beside her was a tall, imposing figure cloaked in shadow. His face was hidden beneath a hood and mask, but his presence alone was enough to silence the room. The faint, ominous aura surrounding him was palpable.
"Momon…" Aether's voice broke the silence, a mix of relief and anxiety.
The masked figure's crimson gaze locked onto Aether. His voice, deep and calm, carried an edge of exasperation. "Aether… can't you go one minute without diving headfirst into danger? Weren't we a team?"
Aether's shoulders sagged slightly, guilt creeping into his tone. "I'm sorry, Momon. I thought… I thought I could handle it. But some memories of the past came rushing back, and I had to act quickly…"
"Memories, huh? And in chasing them, you've ended up in the middle of this disaster. Typical." Momon replied, his tone unreadable as his gaze shifted across the room. First, he eyed Dainsleif, his crimson gaze scrutinizing the blond man. Then, he turned his attention to Lumine. His posture straightened slightly, as though recognizing her significance. "And who might this be?"
Aether hesitated, his voice shaky. "She's… she's my sister. Lumine."
Momon tilted his head slightly, his gaze lingering on her. "Interesting," he said simply, his tone devoid of emotion.
"Momon, please," Aether pleaded, stepping forward. "Don't do anything rash. I… I need answers from her, not destruction."
Momon didn't respond immediately. Instead, his gaze turned sharply toward the Abyss Herald, who stood tensely at Lumine's side. "You," he said, his voice dropping to a colder, more menacing tone. "Didn't I see you in Mondstadt a few hours ago? Something about taking control of a certain giant wolf spirit? Just like you lot did with Dvalin?"
The Abyss Herald flinched but didn't back down, his voice angry. "You dare speak to me with such insolence, mortal?!"
Momon chuckled darkly, the sound reverberating through the chamber. "Mortal? If I were you, I'd choose my words carefully. After all…" His aura flared, the air around him growing heavy and suffocating. "Your companion didn't survive the last five minutes. What makes you think you'll fare any better?"
Aether quickly stepped forward, placing himself between Momon and the Abyss Herald. "Momon, wait! Please, don't—"
Momon raised a hand, silencing Aether without a word. His gaze was locked on the Abyss Herald, but his voice softened when he addressed Aether. "Relax. I'm not here to clean house unless I have to."
He turned his attention to Lumine, who had been watching silently, her expression unreadable. "And you. The sister, I presume? Aether's been looking for you all this time, but here you are—embroiled in a war you seem determined to win."
Lumine's eyes narrowed. "Who are you to judge my choices? You know nothing of the pain this world has caused."
The Abyss Herald snarled, his voice dripping with venom as he took a step forward, positioning himself protectively in front of Lumine. "Your Highness, that's him. That's the monster who destroyed the eye of the first Field Tiller!" His accusatory finger jabbed toward Momon, trembling with rage.
Lumine's gaze snapped to Momon, her golden eyes narrowing. A mixture of shock and fury flashed across her face as she processed the Herald's words. "So it was you…" Her voice was cold and steady, but there was a tremor of restrained emotion beneath it. "Do you have any idea what you've done? You've brought the end to our most critical operation—the Loom of Fate. Without the eye of the first Field Tiller, our mission against the Heavenly Principles is crippled!"
Momon remained unmoved, his mask concealing any emotion that might have flickered across his face. He crossed his arms, his posture exuding an almost casual disdain. "Oh, you're talking about that Loom of Fate thing, huh?" His tone was sardonic, his words dripping with mockery. "Well then, let's have a round of applause for me." He clapped slowly, each sound echoing mockingly through the crumbling chamber.
Aether flinched at the sound, glancing nervously between Momon and Lumine. Paimon, hovering behind him, whispered, "Momon, maybe don't provoke her?"
Ignoring them, Momon continued, his tone taking on an air of theatrical pity. "I mean, what a tragedy. Here I was, thinking I was saving Teyvat from a reality-warping catastrophe, and now you're telling me I accidentally derailed your grand Abyssal scheme? What a sad fate indeed."
Lumine's fists clenched, her voice trembling with suppressed fury. "You mock what you do not understand. The Loom of Fate was more than a mere device—it was our answer. Our rebellion against the unjust laws of the Heavenly Principles. And you… you've stolen that hope from us."
Momon took a step forward, his towering frame casting a shadow over the Abyss Herald. "Hope? Is that what you call it?" His voice grew colder, the mocking edge replaced with icy detachment. "From what I've seen, the only hope your Loom of Fate offered was chaos. A tool designed to bend reality to your whims, regardless of who suffered in the process."
The Abyss Herald growled, his claws twitching as though ready to strike. "You dare speak of suffering? You, who annihilates without hesitation, have no right to lecture us!"
Momon tilted his head, his voice dropping into a deadly calm. "You're right. I don't hesitate. But there's a difference between my actions and yours. I don't hide behind the excuse of rebellion to justify mass destruction."
Lumine's eyes burned with defiance, her voice rising. "And what would you know of rebellion? Of pain? Of fighting against a world that seeks to destroy you?"
Momon's gaze locked onto hers, unflinching. "Enough to know that your war will bring nothing but ruin—to Teyvat, and to yourself. Aether deserves better than to see his sister consumed by this madness."
The Abyss Herald stepped protectively in front of Lumine, his claws glowing with Abyssal energy. "You insolent cur! You dare to question Her Highness's vision? You know nothing of the Abyss Order's struggle!"
Momon glanced at the Herald, unimpressed. "Oh, spare me the melodrama. You're all pawns in a game you barely understand. And from the looks of it, I've been taking your pieces off the board one by one."
Aether, sensing the tension escalating dangerously, stepped between Momon and Lumine, his hands raised in a desperate attempt to de-escalate. "Wait! Stop this! Lumine, Momon, please—there's no need for more fighting!"
Lumine's gaze softened momentarily as she looked at her brother, but her resolve quickly returned. "Aether, you don't understand. The Abyss Order's mission is the only way to end the suffering inflicted by Celestia. Dainsleif is nothing but a traitor to Khaenri'ah, and this man—" she pointed at Momon "—is an obstacle that must be removed."
Momon chuckled darkly. "Obstacle? Well, I do love a good challenge. But let me remind you of something, little princess." He extended his hand, and a faint aura of violet energy began to crackle around him, the room growing colder despite its earlier chaos. "Your war with destiny is irrelevant to me. You can fight your battles with Celestia, the Seven, or whoever you like—but if you threaten the people I care about, your war ends with me."
The room seemed to hold its breath as Lumine and Momon stared each other down, the tension thick enough to suffocate. Aether stepped forward, his voice breaking the silence. "Lumine, please. This isn't the way. Whatever the Abyss Order has promised you, it's not worth losing yourself. Come back with me."
Lumine's expression softened for a brief moment, her resolve flickering—but then her gaze hardened again. "Aether… you still don't understand. You will, in time. But not today."
The Abyss Herald, sensing her hesitation, growled, "Your Highness, we must leave now!"
Lumine gave Aether one last, lingering look, her expression unreadable. "Goodbye, Aether. Reach the end of your journey… and then we'll talk again."
She turned, her golden hair swaying as she walked toward the Abyss portal. The Herald stepped beside her, casting a final glare at Momon before following his mistress.
Momon stood unmoving, his gaze fixed on the portal until it closed. His voice, low and sharp, broke the silence. "You'd better hope we don't meet again, Herald. Next time, I won't be as patient."
Aether fell to his knees, his fists clenched. "Lumine…"
Mona crossed her arms, standing slightly apart from the group, her deep blue eyes reflecting Aether's despair. Her voice was soft but carried a melancholic tone. "What a sad separation…" she murmured, her words hanging in the air like an elegy. She glanced at Aether, her usual confidence replaced with quiet sympathy. "To see your twin so close, yet feel her drift even farther away... it must be unbearable."
Momon stepped forward, his imposing figure surprisingly gentle as he placed a firm hand on Aether's shoulder. His masked face tilted slightly, as if searching for the right words. "Be sad as much as you need, my friend," he said, his deep voice steady and resolute. "I know too well what it means to lose family—to feel their absence like a blade in your heart. But this pain…" He tightened his grip slightly, grounding Aether in his presence. "You can use it. Take this sadness, this longing, and turn it into a source of strength. Not just for yourself, but for the journey that lies ahead."
Paimon, hovering close by, nodded vigorously, her eyes wide with determination. "Yeah, Momon's got a point, Aether! It's okay to feel sad—really sad even—but at least now you know she's out there. You've found her! That's a huge deal! And one day… one day, I know you'll be able to bring her back for good." Her small hands balled into fists as if her will alone could make that promise a reality.
Aether's shoulders sagged, the weight of their words sinking in. Silent tears streamed down his face, but he didn't try to wipe them away. His chest heaved as he let out a shaky breath, his voice breaking as he spoke. "Thank you… all of you. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Momon stepped back slightly, giving Aether space while still maintaining a steady, protective presence. His voice softened, carrying a rare warmth. "You're stronger than you think, Aether. And you've got us by your side, no matter how dark the path becomes."
Mona's gaze softened, her earlier aloofness melting away as she looked at Aether. "Pain like this… it's a heavy burden to carry. But remember, fate is not unchangeable. The stars may guide us, but we still have the power to walk our own path. And yours is far from over."
Paimon floated closer to Aether, placing her small hands on his cheeks to pull his attention toward her. "No more tears now, okay? We've got work to do! Lumine's not gonna save herself, and you're not gonna save her by sulking. Let's focus on the next step!"
Aether managed a small, bittersweet smile, his tears slowing as resolve began to fill his eyes. He straightened his back, nodding firmly. "You're right. I can't stop now. I'll keep moving forward—for her."
Momon turned sharply, his piercing gaze scanning the chamber as if his eyes alone could pierce through the lingering shadows. His tone was calm yet edged with curiosity. "That man you were with… where did he go?"
Aether followed Momon's gaze, his own eyes darting around the dimly lit ruins. The faint echoes of their voices reverberated off the crumbling walls, but there was no sign of the enigmatic figure. Aether furrowed his brow. "Huh, Dain... he's gone." His voice wavered slightly, caught between surprise and resignation. "I didn't even see him leave."
Paimon zipped closer to Aether, her expression a mix of surprise and annoyance. "What? He just vanished without saying anything?" she huffed, crossing her tiny arms. "That guy has no manners! Ugh, always so mysterious and broody—can't he just say goodbye like a normal person?"
"Whatever," Momon said, his tone dismissive as he waved a hand. "You can tell me about him later. For now, let's get out of here before this place collapses entirely."
Mona straightened her hat, her fingers glowing faintly as Hydro energy began swirling around her. "Fine, fine. I'll help you teleport us out of these ruins," she muttered, clearly eager to prove herself useful. The chamber was crumbling around them, rocks tumbling from the ceiling, and the air carried a thick sense of urgency.
Just as Mona was about to cast her spell, Momon raised his hand, interrupting her. A single, commanding word escaped his lips: "[Greater Teleportation]."
Before Mona's spell could even form, a rush of energy enveloped the group. In an instant, the suffocating ruins were replaced by the fresh air and serene scenery of Liyue's outskirts. The shift was so sudden that Paimon spun mid-air, clearly disoriented.
"Wha—?! We're… already outside?!" Paimon exclaimed, looking around with wide eyes.
Aether blinked in confusion, momentarily speechless as he processed the abrupt change in environment.
Meanwhile, Mona stood frozen, her hands still raised as if she were about to complete her spell. Her jaw dropped, and her face turned a vivid shade of red. "You…" she sputtered, lowering her arms with trembling hands.
Momon turned toward her calmly, his crimson eyes glinting faintly beneath his mask.
I can't believe you! You just had to show off, didn't you? You really enjoy making people feel useless, don't you?" Mona snapped, her voice trembling with frustration. "I was perfectly capable of teleporting us myself!" She clenched her fists, glaring at him as though she could set him on fire with her gaze alone.
Momon's calm demeanor remained unchanged as he reached into his cloak and pulled out a weathered tome. He extended it toward Mona with a deliberate motion, the faint aura of magic radiating from its surface. "Here. The book of Tier Magic you've been pestering me about."
Mona's anger evaporated in an instant. Her eyes lit up, sparkling with excitement as she stared at the book. "Oh!" she squealed, snatching it from his hand so quickly it was almost a blur. Hugging the tome tightly against her chest, she practically bounced on her heels. "Finally! After all this time, it's mine!" Her tone was filled with pure, unrestrained joy. "Do you even realize how long I've been searching for something like this? This is exactly what I need to revolutionize my research! Oh, the secrets it must hold!"
Paimon floated closer, her curiosity piqued. "Wait, what's so special about that book? It looks kind of creepy to me."
Mona shot Paimon a glare, holding the book protectively. "Creepy? This is a treasure trove of knowledge! The secrets of a whole new kind of magic—Tier Magic—are written in here! With this, my understanding of the stars and the arcane will reach entirely new heights!"
She looked up at Momon, her voice softening. "Thank you… I guess you're not as insufferable as I thought."
"Well, I gave you the book," Momon said with a nonchalant shrug, his voice still carrying that same detached tone. "Now you should figure out how to translate it. Have fun with that." He turned and began walking toward Liyue Harbor, his pace steady and unhurried, as if this was just another routine in his long journey.
Mona, clutching the book to her chest, stared after him for a moment, her eyes narrowing in determination. "Oh, I'll find a way to reveal its secrets. You'll see." She grinned to herself, already mentally mapping out how she would go about deciphering the advanced Tier Magic. She wasn't about to let something as trivial as a language barrier stop her.
Aether and Paimon exchanged a glance, and then Aether gave Mona a small nod. "We should get moving.
"Yeah, yeah. I'll catch up." Mona waved a hand dismissively but quickly jogged to join the group, holding the book like a treasure as if it were the most valuable thing in Teyvat.
As they walked together toward Liyue Harbor, the sun was setting, casting a soft golden light over the landscape. The distant sound of waves crashing against the shore could be heard in the air, a peaceful reminder of the calm before whatever storm lay ahead.