The night had draped the sea in a serene, velvety darkness. The only light came from the shimmering stars above, their reflections dancing on the rippling water. The Alcor sailed steadily, its crew quiet, save for the occasional sounds of ropes creaking and the rhythmic splash of waves against the hull. The storms of Inazuma loomed ahead, their faint flickers of lightning still distant yet growing closer with each passing hour.
Momon had chosen a secluded spot on the deck, resting on a makeshift bed of stacked wooden crates and coiled ropes. The cool night breeze whispered around him as he reclined, his skeletal frame oddly at ease. Above him, the sky was a masterpiece, a sprawling canvas of stars glimmering in patterns that seemed both familiar and alien.
Though he appreciated the beauty, something about the night sky unsettled him. He had noticed it before but had refrained from delving deeper. Tonight, curiosity won.
"Aren't those…?" Momon's voice was a low murmur, his crimson eyes narrowing. The faint glow of his eyes reflected a truth he could not ignore. His skeletal face, with its unnerving stillness, betrayed an intense focus as he whispered the incantation.
"[See Through]."
The spell sharpened his vision, cutting through the limitations of mortal sight. As the veil of distance and illusion parted, he saw them—fragments of an object adrift in space, glinting faintly like shattered pieces of an ancient artifact. They floated eerily, unbound by gravity, their jagged edges casting strange shadows against the backdrop of the stars.
"Asteroids… No, these are something else," he muttered, suspicion creeping into his voice. With a flick of his wrist, he invoked an enhanced version of the spell.
"[See Through - V5]."
The spell surged, its power stretching his perception further into the cosmos. He was moments away from unveiling the truth when—
"Hey there!"
The sudden voice startled him, breaking his concentration and dispelling the spell. Momon turned his head sharply to see Beidou standing nearby, a broad grin lighting up her face. She held a lantern, its warm glow illuminating her wind-tousled hair and confident stance.
"Beidou," Momon said, his voice calm but tinged with annoyance.
Beidou laughed, the sound rich and carefree. "Didn't mean to scare you, big guy. You looked so deep in thought I figured I'd pull you back to reality."
"I was just staring at the stars to pass the time," Momon said, his voice a low rumble that broke the tranquil quiet.
Beidou, who had leaned against the railing nearby, glanced up at the sky as well. "Ah yes, they do look magnificent tonight," she said, her tone uncharacteristically soft, as if the sight had briefly stolen her usual boldness. After a moment, she turned her head to look at him. "But… you really plan to sleep on those boxes?"
Momon shifted slightly but didn't sit up. "Sleep? I don't sleep. I'm not human," he replied, his tone casual, as though stating a simple fact. "I have never told you right?"
Beidou blinked, the revelation catching her off guard. "Oh…" Her voice trailed off for a moment as her brows furrowed slightly in thought. She tilted her head, studying him more intently. "So, that's why you wear that mask all the time, huh? And why you're so tall."
Momon finally turned his head to face her, his skeletal features partially hidden in the shadow of his hood. "I'm only 195 cm. It's not that rare," he said, his tone even, though there was a faint trace of amusement in his words.
Beidou let out a hearty laugh, the sound carrying easily over the ship's deck. "Haha! The only tall ones I've seen are sea monsters and… well, you." She grinned, her humor unshaken by his cryptic demeanor.
Without hesitation, she plopped down on the same set of boxes, sitting close to him. The boldness of her actions was typical of Beidou—never one to shy away from proximity or confrontation. "You're full of surprises, you know that? I figured you were a bit… unusual, but not sleeping at all? That's a whole other level."
Momon's crimson eye lights flickered faintly as he regarded her. "Unusual is one way to put it," he said, his voice steady but enigmatic.
Beidou leaned back slightly, propping herself up on her hands as she gazed at the stars again. "Well, unusual's not a bad thing. Keeps things interesting." She shot him a sideways glance, her expression curious yet relaxed. "So, if you don't sleep, what do you do with all that time? Just stare at the stars every night?"
Momon allowed himself a moment of contemplation before answering. "I observe. I think. Sometimes, I act. Time flows differently for me, so I don't feel the need for rest as humans do."
Beidou let out a low whistle. "Hah, sounds like you've got a lot on your mind. Must get lonely, though."
"I've been a lonely person for a long time, and that does not bother me. Loneliness is just… there. Boredom might try to creep in from time to time, but even that feels insignificant." He shifted his gaze back to the stars, the faint glow of celestial light reflecting in his hollow sockets. "I suppose you could say I'm just… vibing. You know what I mean?"
Beidou chuckled, her laugh warm and unrestrained. She leaned back on her palms, tilting her head toward him. "Vibing, huh?" she repeated, savoring the unexpected casualness of the word. "I gotta admit, for someone who looks so serious all the time, you have a way of surprising people, Momon."
She sat up straighter, brushing a strand of hair from her face as her grin widened. "But yeah, I totally get what you're saying—even if I'm the complete opposite!" She laughed again, the sound hearty and genuine. "I live for the noise, the excitement, the chaos of life. That's why I love being out here on the sea, meeting new people, and finding new adventures."
"You could say I'm already on an adventure with Aether and Paimon," Momon said, his voice steady but with a faint hint of amusement. "So, I hope this journey is as enjoyable as the ones before."
Beidou chuckled, resting her elbow on her knee as she looked at him with a mischievous grin. "Yeah, I get that. But, no offense, when I see you with those two, you just… look out of place."
Momon's crimson dots lights flickered as he turned his head toward her. "What do you mean by that?"
"Well," Beidou said, her grin widening as she shifted her position, now leaning closer to him. "I can just imagine you being part of a group of mysterious, scary-looking guys. You know, the type that shows up in legends or ghost stories to scare the daylights out of people." Her hand reached out almost instinctively, fingers brushing against the edge of his armor as if testing its texture.
Momon stiffened slightly, his skeletal form unnaturally still, though his voice remained calm. "Uh… well, you're not wrong. I was once part of such a group. Or perhaps it's better to call it a clan."
Beidou's eyes lit up with interest, and she lay back further, now almost shoulder-to-shoulder with him. "Haha, yup, that's exactly the vibe I got from you! So, what kind of spooky clan was it? Did you all wear masks? Have secret rituals under the moonlight?"
Momon stiffened ever so slightly, the weight of her proximity and casual touch setting off a sense of unease. He wasn't unfamiliar with intrigue—his presence often invited it—but this interaction reminded him of a certain overly flirtatious librarian in Mondstadt.
"No, none of that," Momon said firmly, his voice carrying an uncharacteristic softness as he reflected. "We were mostly a defensive clan, focused on protecting and strengthening ourselves rather than terrorizing others."
Beidou raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Defensive, huh? That's surprising, considering how ominous you look. Guess I pegged you wrong." She leaned closer, her eyes narrowing playfully as if trying to uncover a secret hidden in his mask. "Still, I bet you guys were no pushovers."
"I understand the assumption. Many see power and immediately associate it with aggression or conquest. But you are right. We were not pushovers. If someone messed with us, we retaliated with no mercy."
Beidou's smirk widened as she leaned in closer, a slight flush on her cheeks betraying her enthusiasm—or perhaps something else entirely. "Hm, that's badass…" Her gaze lingered on the intricate details of Momon's mask. Her red-tinged face and sly grin suggested she had something in mind. "Hey, why don't we go to my cabin and talk more?"
Momon tilted his head slightly, clearly taken aback by the suggestion. "Is that… necessary?"
"Oh, come on now, don't be so stiff! Let's go," Beidou laughed, her tone teasing as she stood and reached for Momon's hand. Though she wasn't nearly strong enough to physically pull him up, he decided to oblige, rising to his feet with an almost regal composure.
As the two walked toward Beidou's cabin, the murmur of the crew's voices carried on the night breeze. A few sailors stopped in their tracks, staring wide-eyed as their captain, known for her fiery independence, led the enigmatic and imposing figure by the hand.
"Is it just me, or does it look like Captain Beidou's got a thing for that guy?" one sailor whispered, his tone dripping with envy.
Another leaned against the ship's railing, crossing his arms as he watched. "I'm kinda jealous. That Momon guy must be really good with women to the point he made our captain his."
A third sailor, shaking his head in disbelief, added, "Yeah, can you imagine anyone taming Captain Beidou? He must be some kind of legend."
The soft crunch of boots on the deck interrupted their whispers as Juza, the Alcor's Chief Mate, strode into view. His sharp eyes narrowed at the huddled group, his deep voice cutting through the chatter. "Oi, you fools. Get back to your posts. The storm is approaching, and you don't want to be caught slacking when it hits."
The sailors jumped at the command, straightening up immediately. "Ye-yes, sir!" they stammered in unison, scrambling to their stations.
The morning light filtered through the wooden shutters of Beidou's cabin, casting soft golden hues across the room. Momon lay on his back, his skeletal body exposed save for the pair of dark trousers he still wore. His crimson eyes glowed faintly as they stared at the wooden beams of the ceiling. Beside him, Beidou lay nestled against his chest, her bare arm draped over his ribcage as she breathed softly in her sleep.
Last night had been… unexpected.
Momon shifted slightly, careful not to disturb Beidou. He replayed the events in his mind. Beidou, confident and unbothered, had pushed past his mask—both literally and figuratively. Even after discovering his true skeletal form, she had been undeterred. Her boldness had surprised him, but what followed was something he hadn't anticipated. When she discovered that he, despite his skeletal body, possessed what was necessary to satisfy her passion, the night took a turn he hadn't anticipated.
"She really didn't care," Momon thought, his skeletal jaw tightening as he glanced down at her. Beidou's face was relaxed, her usual fiery demeanor replaced by a rare serenity as she slept.
For a moment, he raised his hand, hovering it above her head. A faint magical glow began to emanate from his fingers as he whispered under his breath, "[Control Amnesia]."
The spell lingered in the air, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. "Should I do this?"
He stared at her, watching the gentle rise and fall of her chest. The memories of last night replayed in his mind—the way she had accepted him without hesitation, the way she had laughed off the revelation of his skeletal form, and the passion they had shared despite the impossibility of it all.
"No…" he muttered, letting the glow dissipate.
The thought of erasing her memory felt cruel, even selfish. To rob someone of their experiences, no matter how personal or strange, was a violation he couldn't justify. Worse, he wasn't certain how his spell would behave in this world. It was untested, and the risk of unintentionally damaging her mind was too high.
"What if I accidentally erase everything?" he thought, clenching his skeletal fingers into a loose fist. "Or worse—leave her fragmented?"
Beidou stirred slightly, murmuring something inaudible as she shifted closer to him. Her arm slid down slightly, resting against his sternum.
Momon sighed softly, his internal conflict unresolved but leaning toward caution.
"Man, this is Lisa's situation all over again," he muttered to himself. The thought of the sultry librarian from Mondstadt brought a faint pang of regret. That encounter had been… complicated, to say the least.
Beidou's eyelids fluttered as she began to wake, her gaze slowly focusing on him. For a moment, her expression was blank, but then a lazy smile spread across her face.
"Morning, skelly guy," she said, her voice husky from sleep. She stretched, seemingly unbothered by the events of the previous night.
Momon tilted his head slightly, his crimson eyes narrowing. "You… are surprisingly calm."
Beidou chuckled, propping herself up on one elbow as she looked at him. "Why wouldn't I be? You're still you, aren't you? So what if you're… a bit unconventional?"
"Beidou, I just want you to keep this between us," he said, his voice steady, though the slight tilt of his head betrayed a hint of uncertainty.
Beidou, still lounging comfortably under the sheets, grinned and gave him a playful salute. "Haha, that's a promise, okay? Cross my heart and all that," she said, her tone casual but her eyes holding sincerity.
The cabin was bathed in a gentle glow as sunlight filtered through the window, but the moment was short-lived. Suddenly, the light dimmed, and the room was enveloped in shadow, the telltale sign of something vast and ominous approaching.
The cabin darkened further, the faint light that remained now shrouded in gray hues as the Alcor entered the outskirts of Inazuma's infamous storm belt. Thunder rumbled in the distance, a low growl that seemed to echo through the wooden walls. Beidou sat up slightly, her hair cascading over her shoulders as she glanced at the window.
"Ah, looks like we've reached the storms of Inazuma," she said, her voice tinged with excitement. "Feels like home to me."
Momon nodded, his gaze lingering on the window for a moment longer. "Is that so? Then we should go outside. I'd like to see how your crew handles this firsthand," he said as he began to rise.
Before he could stand, Beidou reached out and grabbed his hand, her grip firm but warm. "Hold on, not so fast," she said with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
Momon paused, tilting his head in curiosity. "What is it?"
Beidou leaned back slightly, pulling him down to sit beside her once more. "The crew can handle it with ease. Trust me, they've been through worse storms than this. Let them do their thing while we… stay here a little longer."
She gestured to the darkened cabin, where the muted sound of rain tapping against the window and the occasional roll of thunder created an oddly soothing ambiance. "The storm's darkness, the sound of the rain… it's got such a nice vibe, don't you think?"
Momon hesitated, his red orbs glowing faintly. He wasn't used to indulging in moments like this—moments of calm amidst chaos. Still, something about Beidou's relaxed demeanor and the way she looked at him made him reconsider.
"…Alright," he said finally, his voice low but soft, as though conceding to an argument he wasn't entirely sure he'd lost.
Beidou's hand rested on Momon's chest, her fingers lightly tracing the contours of his skeletal form. She chuckled softly, her expression both curious and playful. "You're all bones, yet… it feels soft," she remarked, tilting her head as though trying to solve a puzzle.
Momon shifted slightly under her touch. "It's just a type of invisible skin, nothing more," he replied matter-of-factly, though there was a subtle undertone of embarrassment in his voice.
Beidou's lips curled into a sly grin as she leaned closer, her mischievous nature shining through. "Hehe, so that's why I felt your lips when we kissed. I thought I was just gonna kiss your teeth," she teased, her tone dripping with amusement. "Did you, perhaps, build your body this way… so you could, I don't know… go to bed with women? Hehe." She burst into a hearty laugh, clearly enjoying herself.
Momon's response was immediate and flustered, though his undead composure barely wavered. "No, no! Not at all!" he said, raising his hands defensively. "I only did it as a joke a long time ago. It wasn't meant for—" He stopped himself, realizing how absurdly awkward the situation had become. "I never thought I'd put it to use. You know, for… anything like that."
Beidou's laughter rang out even louder at his flustered response. "As a joke? Haha, you're so funny!" she said, her eyes glinting with genuine warmth. Without warning, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a firm hug.
The storm outside continued to rumble, the sound of rain tapping rhythmically against the window panes of the cabin. Beidou, still comfortably nestled against Momon, tilted her head in curiosity as a thought struck her.
"So," she began, her tone playful but laced with genuine curiosity, "since you said you're an undead… could you be the same kin as Qiqi? You know, that little girl from Bubu Pharmacy with the talisman on her forehead?"
Momon's glowing red eyes flickered as he turned his head slightly toward her. "Ah, yes. The little one… I've seen her. Well," he said, his voice calm and measured, "we're similar in some ways, but not the same. She is a zombie, a being reanimated through external forces and dependent on that talisman for survival. I, on the other hand, am an overlord."
Beidou sat up slightly, resting her chin on her palm as she studied him. "Hoo… so there are different types of undead, huh? You're not just one big spooky category?"
"Yes, there are many types of undead, each with unique characteristics. Zombies, like Qiqi, are among the lowest forms—mindless, slow, often decaying. But Qiqi is an exception; she's been bound by a talisman that gives her sentience and purpose." he said.
Beidou tapped her chin thoughtfully. "And you? What makes an Overlord stand out?"
"An Overlord," Momon began, "is the pinnacle of the undead race. It represents the very apex of what it means to transcend mortality."
"Oh my, that means I've gone to bed with the god of the undead, huh?" She chuckled, her laughter rich and unapologetic. "I knew there was something special about you, but this takes the prize."
Momon shifted slightly, his skeletal form faintly glowing in the dim light of the cabin. Despite the lack of flesh, his posture betrayed a hint of awkwardness. "Well, uh, thanks... I guess?" he replied, his deep voice carrying an unusual note of discomfort.
Beidou grinned, clearly enjoying his reaction. "Oh, don't act so shy now! You're the one who just gave me the rundown on being the 'pinnacle of the undead.' I'd say that's worth a little celebration, wouldn't you?"
Momon shifted, his skeletal frame easing up from the bed with purpose. "I'd say it's time for me to get up, and you should eat something," he said in his usual steady, composed tone.
Beidou, however, had other plans. She groaned playfully, wrapping an arm around his bony arm to tug him back down. "Oh, you're ruining the fun, big guy," she teased, her voice rich with warmth and mischief. "We've got another whole day until we reach Inazuma. What's the rush?"
Momon hesitated, his crimson eyes glowing faintly as he tilted his head. "Another day, huh…" He trailed off, a mix of contemplation and resignation in his tone.
Beidou smirked and leaned closer, her voice soft yet laced with her boldness. "Come on, Overlord. Don't tell me the ruler of the undead gets tired." She traced her fingers along the smooth edges of his skeletal chest, her touch both tender and playful. "Besides, it's not like anyone's going to interrupt us."
Momon sighed lightly, the corners of his mouth twitching as if considering a reply. "You're insistent, aren't you?"
And so, time seemed to blur for the two as they remained in the cabin, the storm outside a distant hum compared to the fiery connection they shared. Day turned to night, and the Alcor's journey continued steadily, undisturbed by the storm or its passengers below deck.
The crew, accustomed to their captain's antics, chose to steer clear of the cabin, exchanging knowing glances and playful smirks but refraining from any interruptions. After all, Beidou was as formidable as she was unpredictable, and no one dared to intrude on her private affairs.
Next day
Momon emerged from the captain's cabin, his usual imposing figure clad in his dark attire, and the mask once again obscuring his skeletal visage. The early morning sunlight gleamed off his armor as the wooden boards of the Alcor creaked beneath his measured steps. The gentle sea breeze washed over him, carrying the salty tang of the ocean and the distant cries of seagulls.
A moment of silence swept over the deck as the crew of the Alcor turned to stare at him. Their expressions ranged from curiosity to barely concealed grins, their imaginations clearly running wild. What on earth had the Captain and this mysterious, intimidating figure been doing in her cabin for so long?
Momon ignored the looks, his stoic demeanor unshaken, though inwardly, he sighed. I've attracted too much attention again…
Before he could take another step, a familiar, chipper voice broke through the murmurs.
"Momon! Where have you been?!"
Paimon came hovering straight at him like an excited projectile, arms flapping dramatically. Behind her, Aether followed at a more measured pace, a curious look on his face.
Momon adjusted his stance, hands folding behind his back as he turned to greet them. "I was… occupied. Taking care of some business."
Paimon's eyes narrowed in confusion. "Business?" Her tiny hands went to her hips. "You've been missing since yesterday morning! All day and all night?"
Aether stopped beside her, trying—and failing—to suppress a knowing smile as he glanced at Momon. "I heard you were with Captain Beidou the entire time," he said casually, though there was a faint teasing edge to his tone.
Momon tilted his head slightly, the red glow beneath his mask momentarily flickering. "Yes," he replied evenly. "We were discussing… important matters."
Paimon's brow furrowed as she hovered closer, clearly unconvinced. "Important matters? What kind of 'business' takes that long?"
Momon's composure remained steady, though a small part of him felt cornered. Before he could answer, Aether let out a light chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck as he intervened.
"Hahaha, Paimon, don't try to dig that deep," Aether said, casting Momon a subtle, understanding look before turning back to his floating companion. "Beidou is a pretty important figure, you know. Captain of the Crux Fleet and all. I'm sure it was a great opportunity to do business with her."
Aether blinked at Momon, a sly, knowing glint in his eyes. It was subtle, but the message was clear—Don't worry, I'll cover for you.
Paimon's expression relaxed slightly, her suspicion replaced by curiosity and surprise. "Ohh, I see! That's amazing! Doing business with Beidou must be like doing business with Ningguang!" She floated in a small circle as if imagining the possibilities. "Wow, so cool!"
Momon exhaled internally, relieved that Aether's distraction had worked. "Yes, well," he said smoothly, "it was… productive."
"See, Paimon? Nothing to worry about," Aether added with a grin.
"Hmm, I guess." Paimon crossed her arms, clearly still pondering. "But you better let us know next time, okay? Paimon thought you got lost or something!"
"I'll keep that in mind," Momon replied, his tone calm as always.
From the corner of his eye, Momon noticed a few of the Alcor's crew smirking to themselves as they went about their duties, some whispering under their breath while sneaking glances his way. Great, he thought sarcastically, more gossip.
Just then, the cabin door creaked open behind him.
"Morning, boys!" Beidou's booming voice rang out across the deck, as casual and confident as ever. She stepped into the sunlight, her signature red coat fluttering in the breeze, her usual swagger on full display. She shot Momon a playful wink before addressing the crew.
"Quit standing around like you've never seen someone leave my cabin before!" she teased with a wide grin, eliciting a burst of laughter and sheepish shuffling among the sailors. "The land of Inzauma is on the horizon!"
The crew quickly dispersed, though their lingering smiles spoke volumes.
Paimon blinked in confusion, looking between Beidou and Momon. "Huh? What's so funny?"
"Nothing you need to worry about," Aether said quickly, grabbing Paimon's arm and leading her toward the edge of the deck.
"Oh look!" Paimon exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement as she pointed toward the horizon. "It's Inazuma!"
Momon and Aether turned their heads to follow her outstretched finger. There, in the distance, the jagged silhouette of Inazuma's islands came into view, emerging from the vast ocean like a scene out of a painting. The sunlight pierced through the clouds, casting dramatic rays across the rugged peaks and dense forests.
The thunder god's dominion, grew larger and more vivid with each passing moment as the Alcor sailed closer.
Beidou, standing proudly at the helm, grinned as she took in the sight of the approaching land. "There she is—the land of eternal thunder and lightning," she said, her voice carrying easily over the sound of the waves. "We've almost made it, crew! Get ready to dock!"
The sailors erupted into cheers, and their spirits lifted after the long voyage. They scrambled across the deck, securing ropes and preparing for the final stretch of their journey.
Aether leaned against the railing, his amber eyes reflecting the distant shoreline. "So that's Inazuma," he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. "The land of the Electro Archon…"
"This is Ritou Island," Beidou said, gesturing toward the bustling port as the Alcor slowed to a halt near the dock. "From here, you'll continue your journey into Inazuma. Be careful—this place might look lively, but don't let your guard down."
Momon stood at the ship's railing, his crimson gaze sweeping across the scene. The dock was a hive of activity, with sailors, fishermen, and merchants moving about, their voices rising and falling in a cacophony of trade and chatter. Soldiers in violet uniforms bearing the Electro Archon's sigil patrolled the area, their eyes sharp and vigilant.
The Alcor's crew worked quickly, dropping the anchor and lowering the gangplank. Crux sailors began unloading crates, their movements practiced and efficient. Aether and Paimon stood beside Momon, taking in the new land with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
Momon stepped forward, his boots thudding heavily on the gangplank as he descended to the dock. His imposing figure drew immediate attention. Soldiers and dockworkers alike paused in their tasks, their eyes drawn to the towering, masked man. A palpable unease spread through the crowd.
The soldiers exchanged wary glances, their hands resting on the hilts of their weapons. But it was Momon who held their attention. His presence was overwhelming, his aura exuding a subtle but undeniable menace. Though he made no hostile movements, the air around him seemed to thrum with an otherworldly power that set people on edge.
"Is it just me, or are they all staring at us?" Paimon whispered, glancing nervously at the soldiers.
"They're staring at him," Aether replied under his breath, nodding toward Momon.
"Well, guys, this is where our paths split," Beidou said, her voice tinged with both cheer and a hint of caution. She stood confidently on the dock, her hands resting on her hips as the crew of the Alcor worked behind her, unloading crates with practiced efficiency. "As soon as we finish unloading these goods, we'll set sail. Used to love coming to Inazuma, but now? It's as unpredictable as the ocean itself."
Momon, Aether, and Paimon turned to face her, sensing the weight behind her words. Beidou reached into a small satchel slung over her shoulder and pulled out three neatly folded pieces of parchment.
"Here," she said, handing each of them a document.
Paimon unfolded hers curiously. "Uh, what are these for?"
Beidou crossed her arms, raising an amused eyebrow. "What? You thought you could just waltz into Inazuma without entry papers?"
"Oh… right," Paimon muttered, her cheeks puffing out in embarrassment.
Beidou chuckled, shaking her head. "Had a friend of mine pull some strings to get these for you. Outlanders aren't exactly welcome in Inazuma these days, especially adventurers. But with these, you're all clear. They'll make an exception for you guys—just don't mess it up."
Momon took his paper and examined it through his mask. The weight of Beidou's assistance wasn't lost on him. "Thank you," he said, his deep voice sincere, though quiet.
"Hey, no need to get all serious on me," Beidou replied, grinning. She stepped closer and placed a hand on his armored chest, her touch lingering as she winked. "But you owe me one, big guy. Don't forget that."
Beidou turned to Aether and Paimon. "Alright, here's the deal. Head over to the inspector first, and then make your way to the Outlander Affairs Agency," Beidou continued, straightening up and pointing toward a modest building near the docks. "That's where you'll get officially processed. Don't wander off or get into trouble. The last thing you want is to end up on the Raiden Shogun's radar."
Aether nodded, slipping the paper into his bag. "Got it. Thanks, Beidou. You've been a big help."
"Don't mention it," Beidou said, waving off the gratitude. "Now go on. You've got a long journey ahead."
She turned back toward her ship but paused, glancing over her shoulder. "Oh, and big guy…"
Momon tilted his head, meeting her gaze.
"Take care of yourself," she said, her voice softer now. "I'll see you again. Count on it."
With that, she gave a final wave and strode confidently back to the Alcor. Her crew saluted her as she approached, her commanding presence returning as she barked orders to speed up the unloading process.
As they stood on the dock, Paimon looked at the papers in her hands. "Wow, Beidou really went above and beyond for us. She's so cool!"
"She is," Aether agreed, slipping his permit into his satchel. "We should get moving, though. The longer we stay here, the more attention we'll draw."
Aether, Momon, and Paimon walked briskly through the bustling dock of Ritou, the air thick with salt, trade chatter, and the rhythmic sounds of sailors at work. They stopped to ask around for the inspector, eventually presenting their papers to a stern-looking guard near a checkpoint. After a tense moment of scrutiny, the guard gave a small grunt of approval and waved them through into the town.
"Hehe, Beidou was right—these papers really did the job!" Paimon chirped, floating alongside Aether with an excited twirl.
Aether glanced at the official stamp on his paper. "Let's not get too relaxed, though. We're just through the first checkpoint."
"Now we need to find the Outlander Affairs Agency," Aether continued, tucking the paper into his satchel.
As they stepped further into Ritou, Momon took in the sights with quiet fascination. The small port settlement exuded a unique charm, its architecture reminiscent of feudal Japan—wooden buildings with sloped, tiled roofs, paper lanterns swaying gently in the breeze, and merchants calling out to customers in front of their stalls. The townsfolk wore elegant and traditional Inazuman attire, from finely patterned kimonos to more practical workwear. Even the cats lounging lazily on porches seemed to add to the town's serene but lived-in atmosphere.
"It's like I've stepped into Japan… but the old one" Momon muttered under his breath, his crimson eyes scanning the bustling streets. To him, it was a strange sight—alien, yet fascinating.
"We should ask a local where the Outlander Affairs Agency is," Momon suggested in his usual calm and deliberate tone.
"Oh right! Let me ask this guy," said Paimon, her eyes locking onto a tall blonde man crouched down, gently patting a content-looking black and white cat near a merchant's storefront. Paimon hovered over to him without hesitation.
"Hello, mister! Sorry to disturb you," Paimon greeted brightly as the man looked up.
The man stood, brushing off his hands and turning to them with an easygoing smile. His demeanor was warm and approachable like he was always ready to lend a hand. "Not at all!" he said, his tone cheerful and polite.
"We're looking for the Outlander Affairs Agency. Do you happen to know where it is?" Paimon asked.
Aether blinked, frowning slightly as he appraised the man. "Paimon, we said to ask a local. Does this guy look like he's from Inazuma to you?"
"Huh?" Paimon turned back to the man with a squint. Now that Aether mentioned it, something was off—his face, his bright blonde hair, and even his demeanor didn't quite match the locals they'd seen so far. "Wait… you're right! You don't look like you're from around here!"
The man let out a hearty laugh, the sound clear and friendly. "Hahaha! Well, you caught me. I'm not originally from Inazuma. I'm from Mondstadt, actually, though I've been living here for a long time." He offered a slight bow. "The name's Thoma. Nice to meet you."
Paimon let out an "Ohhh" of realization before pointing animatedly at her companions. "Well, it's nice to meet you, Thoma! This one here is Aether." She gestured to the blonde traveler, who gave a polite nod. "And this tall guy is Momon." She hovered beside the masked figure, who loomed slightly but stood still, exuding an air of quiet authority. "And Paimon is, well, Paimon! Hehe."
At the mention of their names, Thoma's expression shifted into surprise, his green eyes widening. "Wait a minute…" He looked at them more closely, realization dawning on his face. "You're the Aether and Paimon? The Honorary Knight of Mondstadt? And…" His gaze lingered on Momon for a moment, studying his imposing figure. "And you must be the mysterious figure everyone's been whispering about from Liyue…"
"Huh? What?" Paimon blinked in confusion. "You know us?"
Thoma grinned, his earlier surprise giving way to genuine admiration. "Of course I do! You're the Honorary Knight and the heroes of Liyue! People here have definitely heard of what you've accomplished. It's an honor to be standing before you." He gave a slight bow of respect.
Paimon puffed up with pride, her tiny hands on her hips. "Woah! So even the people here in Inazuma know about us, huh?"
Aether smiled faintly, though he remained modest as usual. "Word travels faster than I thought."
Thoma straightened up and crossed his arms casually, his smile unwavering. "You'd be surprised how fast news spreads—especially when it involves saving nations and defeating ancient gods." He turned toward Momon, his gaze lingering curiously. "And you… you've got quite the reputation building up as well. Mysterious, powerful, and enigmatic—that's how they've been describing you."
Momon tilted his head slightly, the mask concealing his expression but his voice carrying a steady calm. "Rumors tend to embellish things."
Thoma chuckled. "Maybe, but there's always some truth in them." He clapped his hands together suddenly. "Anyway! You're looking for the Outlander Affairs Agency, right? Follow me."
Thoma smiled warmly and gestured for the group to follow. Aether, Paimon, and Momon exchanged glances before falling into step behind him. The streets of Ritou were lively and colorful, with vendors hawking their wares and locals bustling about their daily routines. Momon's imposing figure drew a few curious and wary stares, though most quickly looked away.
As they approached a tall, well-maintained building near the center of the settlement, a woman dressed in a sharp uniform stood outside, her hands clasped neatly in front of her. Her posture exuded professionalism, though her expression softened when she saw Thoma.
"Hello, Yurika!" Thoma greeted her with his usual easygoing cheer.
"Ah, Thoma, hello. How can I help you today?" Yurika asked, her tone polite but curious.
"No, no, I'm not here on my own behalf. I just helped these travelers find the Outlander Affairs Agency so they can apply for residency," Thoma explained, stepping slightly aside to gesture at Aether, Paimon, and Momon.
Yurika's gaze swept over the group, lingering a fraction longer on Momon. Her composed demeanor wavered ever so slightly before she returned to her professional tone. "I see. So you three have completed the entry procedures, I assume?"
"Yes, ma'am," Aether replied with a small nod.
"Excellent," Yurika said, reaching into a small satchel at her side and retrieving a ledger. "Now then, the processing fee will be three million Mora."
"HUH?!" Paimon's outraged shriek echoed through the street, drawing the attention of a few passersby.
"Three million?!" Aether exclaimed, his usually calm tone tinged with disbelief.
"Mhm." Yurika didn't flinch at their reactions, maintaining her businesslike composure. "One million per applicant, which totals three million Mora."
Suddenly, the air seemed to shift. A cold, oppressive sensation swept over the area, sending a shiver down the spines of everyone present. Yurika froze in place, her confident demeanor crumbling as an overwhelming aura of dread enveloped her. Thoma instinctively stiffened, his cheerful expression replaced with wide-eyed apprehension.
The source of this palpable fear stepped forward.
Momon moved with deliberate slowness, his heavy boots echoing against the ground. His towering frame cast a shadow over Yurika as he approached. His crimson gaze bore into her, unblinking and merciless. The very light around him seemed to dim, as though his presence was devouring it.
Sweat began to bead on Yurika's forehead, her hands trembling as she clutched the ledger. She looked up at Momon, her composed facade entirely shattered.
"Forgive me," Momon said, his voice cold and calm, but laced with an unspoken menace that sent chills through everyone. "I believe I misheard you. It might be good manners to repeat what you just said."
"I-I…" Yurika stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. She felt like prey standing before a predator, powerless and insignificant. "T-The fee is… s-six hundred Mora, sir!"
Momon tilted his head slightly, the motion slow and deliberate. Then, to everyone's surprise, he reached into a small pouch at his side and tossed it onto the table in front of Yurika. The sound of coins jingling inside broke the tense silence.
"Thank you, ma'am," he said, his tone suddenly courteous, though no less intimidating. "Here's one thousand Mora. Treat yourself to something nice."
Yurika's shaking hands scrambled to grab the pouch as she nodded rapidly. "Th-Thank you, sir! I'll process your application right away!" She turned on her heel and practically sprinted into the building, the pouch clutched tightly to her chest.
As quickly as it had arrived, the oppressive aura dissipated, leaving the area feeling oddly lighter. Thoma exhaled a breath he didn't realize he'd been holding, his hand pressed to his chest.
"P-Paimon was so scared," the floating companion admitted, her voice trembling as she hovered closer to Aether.
"You're not the only one. I almost couldn't feel my feet," Thoma added with a nervous chuckle. He glanced at Momon with a mixture of awe and unease. "What… what was that?"
Aether turned to Momon, his expression curious but wary. "What did you do?"
Momon stood tall, his voice as calm as ever. "I used a skill of mine. It's called [Despair Aura, Level 1]."
"Wait, that was magic?!" Paimon asked, eyes wide with disbelief.
"Not magic," Momon corrected. "A skill. Like your ability to fly, Paimon."
"Ohhh…" Paimon nodded slowly, though her expression still betrayed a hint of lingering fear. "Well, whatever it was, remind Paimon to stay on your good side!"
Momon didn't respond, his gaze turning back to the building where Yurika had disappeared. The interaction was over, but the impression he'd left on everyone around him would linger much longer.