While Miko was leisurely savoring her Fried Tofu, the rich aroma of the dish lingering in the air, the group's moment of tranquility was gently interrupted by the approach of a woman. Her voice carried over the night air like a fine silk thread, smooth and refined.
"Greetings."
The tone was mature yet melodious, and Miko's fox-like ears twitched ever so slightly at the sound. A slow, knowing smile graced her lips before she even turned to look.
"Oh my, I know that voice."
She shifted in her seat, her eyes glinting with curiosity as she gazed upon the newcomer. The woman standing before them possessed an air of quiet grace—her fair skin glowing softly under the lantern lights. Her long hair cascaded in a mesmerizing gradient of deep to icy blues, the ends curling delicately. Two ornamental buns sat atop her head, decorated with intricate fan-like accessories that swayed subtly with her movements. But what stood out most were her droopy yet enchanting eyes—purple irises swirling with a hypnotic spiral at their centers.
The woman smiled warmly. "Hello, Miko. It's been some time."
Momon, who had been quietly observing the exchange, immediately noted the woman's unusual features. The tail, the pointed ears, the spiral eyes—it was clear that she was no ordinary human. His masked face tilted slightly, his curiosity piqued. "A youkai," he thought to himself, though he kept the observation to himself for the moment.
Miko placed a hand on her hip and gave an amused chuckle. "My old friend Mizuki… I must say, I had no idea you had come to Inazuma. I thought you were still living in Natlan."
The woman—Mizuki—tilted her head ever so slightly, her expression relaxed yet refined. "I recently returned, and with that, I have also taken up a new endeavor. I am now a major shareholder of the Aisa Bathhouse."
"Ahh, so that's where you've been hiding," Miko smirked knowingly. "I do recall you venturing to Natlan to study their artificial hot springs, wishing to perfect the craft."
Mizuki gave a light, almost musical laugh. "That's right. I spent some time there learning the methods they use to regulate geothermal energy and enhance the waters' rejuvenating properties. And now, I have put that knowledge to good use."
She then turned her attention toward the travelers, her gaze sweeping over Aether, Momon, and Paimon with quiet interest.
"Ah, but where are my manners?" Miko suddenly gestured with a flourish. "Travelers, allow me to introduce an old youkai friend of mine—Yumemizuki Mizuki. She is a yumekui-baku—a rather fascinating type of youkai with the ability to slip into one's dreams and devour the nightmares that prey upon a slumbering mind."
Mizuki gave a graceful bow, her voice laced with warmth. "It is an honor to meet you, Honorary Knights. I hope your time in Inazuma has been enjoyable."
As she straightened, she reached into the folds of her ornate kimono, retrieving three elegantly designed cards and offering them to the trio.
Aether accepted it hesitantly, glancing at it curiously. "This is…?"
Mizuki's smile deepened. "A VIP pass to the Aisa Bathhouse. This invitation grants you full access to our highest-tier services—completely free of charge."
Paimon gasped so loudly that several passersby turned their heads in surprise. She clutched the card like a prized treasure, her eyes shimmering. "THIS—this is the opportunity of a lifetime! We can't let this go to waste!"
Aether and Momon exchanged a glance, their expressions thoughtful. They stepped aside slightly to discuss the offer in private. "So, what do you think?" Momon asked, his deep voice calm but carrying a hint of practicality.
Aether shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "To be honest, I'd like to go there. It sounds like a great way to relax after everything we've been through."
Momon nodded, his tone thoughtful. "Agreed. But I'd prefer a hot spring where I can have it all to myself, without any disturbance." He turned back to Mizuki, his masked face giving nothing away. "Miss, do you have any hot springs that fit that description?"
Mizuki, unfazed by the unusual request, nodded with a serene smile. "Of course. We offer personalized accommodations for our esteemed guests. If you desire complete privacy, we have secluded springs tailored for such needs."
Aether immediately understood why Momon asked for such an arrangement. Unlike Miko, Aether had never been able to fully grasp the truth of what Momon was. He knew his companion was not human, but whatever he was, it was clear that Momon intended to keep his true form hidden. Aether simply nodded in silent understanding.
Momon handed the card a final glance before slipping it into his pocket. "Alright then. We'll be there in the evening."
Mizuki inclined her head slightly. "Then we shall prepare for your arrival. I look forward to hosting you, Honorary Knights." With a final graceful bow, she turned and glided away, vanishing into the flow of the bustling night market.
"How greedy, Momon~" she purred, her voice dripping with playful mischief. "To claim an entire hot spring all for yourself. Whatever shall the poor bathhouse do?"
As soon as she'd sharply, already regretting his decision to engage in conversation. "Don't start now, Miko."
But Miko simply grinned, taking another bite of her Fried Tofu. "Oh, I wouldn't dare… Not yet, at least."
Momon rubbed his temple, bracing himself for whatever teasing Miko had yet to unleash.
As the evening settled over Inazuma, the moon cast a soft silver glow over the city, its light reflecting off the tranquil waters that surrounded the Aisa Bathhouse. The establishment was a grand yet serene structure, nestled within a private section of the city, away from the bustling streets. Steam curled lazily from behind its elegant wooden gates, carrying the scent of mineral-rich waters, soothing herbs, and exotic florals.
Momon, Aether, Paimon, and Ayaka approached the entrance, their footsteps muffled against the polished stone pathway. The air was warm and carried a faint trace of hinoki wood, a scent that promised relaxation and comfort.
At the entrance, a man stood in waiting. He was slightly on the chubby side, his round face adorned with a pair of thin-rimmed glasses. His dark yukata bore the emblem of the bathhouse, and he carried himself with the welcoming air of an experienced host.
As soon as he caught sight of them, his eyes widened in recognition. His expression instantly shifted to one of deep respect, and without hesitation, he bowed low.
"By the Archons…!" he exclaimed. "The Honorary Knights and the esteemed Shirasagi Himegimi! What an honor to have you grace our humble establishment." His voice was rich with enthusiasm, and he straightened, offering them an earnest smile.
Ayaka, ever the picture of elegance, returned the gesture with a polite bow of her own. "Good evening, Aikawa-san. It is a pleasure to be here."
Aether, holding up the intricately designed cards they had received earlier, stepped forward. "Hello, sir. We were given these by Miss Mizuki."
Aikawa Susumu adjusted his glasses as he carefully inspected the VIP passes, nodding approvingly. "Ah, yes! Miss Mizuki has already informed me of your arrival." He lifted his gaze back to them, eyes twinkling with excitement. "She has made special arrangements in preparation for your visit. Please, come inside—she has been expecting you."
With that, the large wooden doors creaked open, revealing the warm and inviting interior of the bathhouse. A wave of gentle steam rolled out, carrying with it the rich aroma of hinoki, lavender, and soothing medicinal herbs.
As they stepped inside, they were immediately greeted by a stunning display of traditional Inazuman architecture. The interior was spacious yet intimate, illuminated by soft paper lanterns that cast a golden glow upon the polished wooden floors. Delicate screens, painted with serene landscapes of rolling hills and koi-filled ponds, separated different sections of the bathhouse. The faint sound of flowing water filled the air, accompanied by the distant murmur of patrons indulging in the luxurious atmosphere.
Momon's gaze swept across the bathhouse with a practiced eye. Every detail—from the subtle engravings on the wooden beams to the calming atmosphere—had been meticulously crafted for maximum relaxation. Even he had to admit, it was an impressive place.
"Wow…" Paimon whispered in awe, her tiny hands pressed against her cheeks. "This place is huge! It's so fancy! Paimon's never been anywhere like this before!"
Aikawa Susumu chuckled at her enthusiasm. "We take great pride in ensuring that our guests experience the ultimate relaxation." He gestured toward a side corridor. "Miss Mizuki is waiting in the main hall. Allow me to escort you."
As they followed Aikawa deeper into the bathhouse, the tension from the day's events slowly began to melt away. The evening had only just begun, and already, the promise of rest and comfort lay ahead.
Momon, however, remained silent, his mind briefly wandering as he considered the private hot spring that had been promised to him. If nothing else, he could at least use this time to enjoy a rare moment of solitude.
"I think I'll try one of the public baths. It's been a while since I've had a chance to relax like this," said Aether.
Paimon, who had been floating beside Aether, nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, me too! Paimon's never been to a bathhouse before, so this is gonna be so much fun!"
Ayaka, who had been quietly observing the exchange, smiled softly. "I think I'll join you in the public baths, Aether. It's been a while since I've had the chance to relax as well."
As the group settled into their respective areas, Mizuki, the elegant yumekui-baku, appeared with two servants in tow. Both servants were youkai as well, their presence adding to the otherworldly charm of the bathhouse.
Mizuki's voice was smooth and melodic as she addressed Aikawa Susumu, the bathhouse owner. "Aikawa-san, leave them to me. Thank you."
Aikawa bowed deeply, his expression one of respect and gratitude. "Of course, Miss Mizuki. Please, let me know if you need anything." With that, he took his leave, leaving the group in Mizuki's capable hands.
Mizuki turned to the group, her spiral-shaped eyes glinting with warmth and mischief. "Again, welcome, Honorary Knights. We have prepared everything for you." Her gaze shifted to Momon, her tone carrying a hint of reverence. "Lord Momon, your private hot spring is this way. Please, follow me."
The soft glow of lanterns flickered along the corridor as Mizuki gracefully led the way, her footsteps light against the polished wooden floor. Her two attendants remained behind to assist Aether, Paimon, and Ayaka, ensuring they were properly prepared for their time of relaxation.
Momon followed Mizuki in silence, his gaze subtly sweeping over the bathhouse's refined architecture. The corridor stretched further than expected, lined with intricate sliding doors that led to various private hot spring rooms. The air carried a faint mix of steam, minerals, and soothing florals, a scent that promised complete tranquility.
Finally, at the very end of the hallway, Mizuki came to a stop before a grand sliding door adorned with delicate calligraphy. She turned to face Momon, her expression warm and composed.
"This is your private bath, Lord Momon," she announced smoothly, sliding the door open with practiced grace.
Momon stepped inside, his eyes immediately drawn to the vast steaming pool before him. Unlike the more communal springs, this one was carved into natural stone, allowing warm water to flow freely from a waterfall embedded into the rock. The bath extended into an open-air section, where moonlight filtered through bamboo screens, casting silver reflections upon the rippling surface.
The space was serene, untouched by any presence save for the faint rustling of the wind outside. Everything had been prepared to perfection—fresh towels folded neatly on a wooden rack, scented oils placed beside the bath should he wish to use them, and even a lacquered tray with a porcelain sake set resting on a small table.
Momon took a moment to admire the surroundings, nodding in approval. "This is very nice." His voice was calm, yet there was a sense of satisfaction in his tone.
Mizuki, standing just a few steps behind him, tilted her head slightly. "Would you like me to assist in removing your armor?" she offered, her tone professional, yet carrying the faintest hint of curiosity.
Momon turned slightly, shaking his head. "No, no. Thank you, but there is no need for that." His voice remained polite, yet firm.
Mizuki gave a knowing smile and bowed. "As you wish, Lord Momon. Then, I shall take my leave. Please enjoy your bath." She stepped back and slid the door shut behind her, leaving him alone in complete silence.
For a moment, Momon simply stood there, gazing at the steam rising from the water, watching how it curled and dissipated into the night air.
Then, with a thought, his armor vanished in an instant—disintegrating into nothingness, revealing the truth hidden beneath.
He took a step forward, and for the first time in a long while, he caught sight of himself in the large, floor-to-ceiling mirror that stood in the corner of the room.
A skeletal form, tall and imposing, with a perfectly smooth skull that reflected the lantern's dim light. Where flesh and muscle should be, there was nothing but polished bone, a stark contrast to the luxurious surroundings of the bathhouse.
Yet, at his core, beneath the absence of human skin, something dark pulsed faintly—a void-like presence that clung to his being. His 'clothing' had adjusted to this form, covering his lower half in a dark, shadowy material that seemed to shift between fabric and an otherworldly substance. It had the appearance of long boxers, but when he reached down to touch it, it felt… warm. Solid. Almost like flesh.
His skeletal fingers lingered for a moment. A strange, almost amused thought crossed his mind.
"…Hah. I almost forgot I have a dick while being a skeleton."
His voice echoed in the stillness, carrying an undertone of dry amusement.
He exhaled, though breath was unnecessary, shaking his head slightly as if brushing the thought away.
"Well, it's not a bad thing anyway."
Grabbing a towel, he wrapped it around his waist, covering himself out of habit rather than necessity. He turned back toward the inviting warmth of the hot spring, ready to step in.
Momon let out a deep, satisfied sigh as he sank further into the hot spring, allowing the warmth to seep into his bones—quite literally. Though he no longer had muscles or nerves, the sensation of the heated water wrapping around his skeletal frame was strangely comforting. It was an odd thing, really. He didn't have the flesh to appreciate the soothing embrace of the mineral-rich bath, yet he could still register the pleasure of it. Perhaps it was a lingering memory of what it once felt like to be human.
"Woah, this feels great," he murmured, his voice carrying a rare note of genuine relaxation. He leaned back against the smooth, natural stones that lined the pool's edge, stretching his arms out along the surface. "That woman Mizuki wasn't joking. These hot springs are amazing."
A thin veil of steam curled around him, creating a dreamlike haze that softened the warm glow of the lanterns hanging from the wooden beams above. The gentle sound of trickling water from the nearby waterfall added to the peaceful atmosphere.
Momon's crimson eyes, usually sharp and calculating, softened as he gazed through the mist, lost in thought. The ambiance, the rising steam, the luxurious feel of it all—it stirred something deep within him. A memory, distant yet vivid.
He was reminded of the 9th Floor of the Great Tomb of Nazarick.
Back then, it had been nothing more than a collection of programmed data, a grand structure meticulously designed by him and his guildmates. The 9th Floor had housed a series of extravagant facilities, including a set of beautifully crafted Roman baths, a place where the Supreme Beings of Nazarick could 'relax'—not that they had ever truly needed to, given that their avatars never experienced fatigue. It had all been an illusion of leisure, a concept put in place purely for roleplaying immersion.
But this? This was real.
The rising steam, the sensation of hot water against his bones, the scent of natural minerals—it wasn't just code, it wasn't a game. He was here, in a physical, tangible world. And for all its differences from Yggdrasil, the weight of reality made the experience far more meaningful.
His fingers slowly traced over the surface of the water, watching how the ripples expanded outward, distorting the reflection of his skeletal form.
"Ah… the Great Tomb of Nazarick…" he whispered to himself, the wistfulness in his voice barely above a breath. "How much I miss that glorious guild…"
His mind wandered further, recalling the golden days of his past—Touch Me, Peroroncino, Ulbert, Bukubukuchagama… The countless times they had gathered to discuss the fate of their guild, their great ambitions, their foolish in-game banter… and then, one by one, they had left.
And in the end, he was the only one who remained.
Momon's fingers clenched into a loose fist beneath the water. He had long accepted that the Great Tomb of Nazarick was gone. But what if it had been transported here as well?
Would it have been the same? Would his loyal NPCs have still recognized him as their supreme ruler? Would they still wait for his command, eager to serve?
He exhaled—not out of necessity, but out of habit as if trying to expel the weight of such thoughts from his mind.
"But all of that… is gone now. Forever."
Momon closed his eyes, allowing the heat of the spring to pull him further into quiet contemplation.
Here, in this foreign world, he was alone. There was no Nazarick. No guildmates. No throne of supreme rulership.
Just him.
And yet, despite that bitter truth, the warmth of the hot spring remained comforting.
Perhaps, just for this one evening, he could let himself relax—not as Ainz Ooal Gown, the Overlord of Death, but simply as Momon, the traveler.
Momon had just begun to settle into the tranquility of the hot spring, the warmth sinking into his bones in a way that almost made him forget his unnatural form, when suddenly—
Creak.
The door slid open.
A sharp sensation pricked at his awareness, a presence so familiar that he already knew who it was before even looking.
Momon let out a long sigh. Of course.
"There you are, Momon~"
The playful, sultry voice confirmed his suspicion before his crimson gaze even landed on the one responsible for shattering his peace.
There, standing at the entrance, was none other than Yae Miko—wearing nothing but a towel wrapped snugly around her curvaceous figure. Her long, silken pink hair cascaded down her back, still slightly damp from the steam. Her fox-like eyes shimmered with mischievous delight as she took in his reaction.
But what truly caught Momon off guard was who was standing beside her.
Behind Miko, stepping into the room with composed elegance, was Raiden Ei.
Momon "blinked", genuinely surprised. The Electro Archon's long violet locks glistened with moisture, and her amethyst eyes—while characteristically serious—held a flicker of curiosity. Like Miko, she was clad in a modest towel, though her regal bearing remained untouched by the casual setting.
"You've got to be kidding me…" Momon muttered under his breath before crossing his arms. "Miko, what in the world are you doing here?"
"Oh my, is that any way to greet two beautiful ladies?" Miko teased as she gracefully stepped forward. "Honestly, Momon, you should be honored. After all, it's not every day one gets the privilege of sharing a bath with the Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine and the Electro Archon herself."
Momon's crimson gaze shifted to Ei, his expression unreadable. "And you? Don't tell me she dragged you into this?"
"I…" Ei hesitated for a brief moment before straightening her posture. "I was actually interested in coming to the hot springs. Since you were here as well, I thought… it would be a good opportunity."
Her voice was calm, as always, but Momon could hear the slight uncertainty beneath her words.
Miko giggled, placing a hand over her lips. "See, Momon? Even Ei wanted to enjoy a soak with you. There's no need to be so shy~."
Momon sighed heavily and pinched the bridge of his nose.
Of course. It's Miko. Of course, she'd pull something like this.
He watched as both women stepped into the steaming water, their movements slow and deliberate, as if savoring the feeling of the hot spring embracing their skin.
Miko took her place on his right, letting out a relaxed hum as she leaned back against the rocks, her soft pink hair floating slightly in the water.
Ei, meanwhile, settled on his left, her usually stiff posture loosening just slightly as she adjusted to the warmth of the bath. Her regal aura remained intact, but there was something unguarded about her expression—something that made Momon realize that even an Archon could appreciate the simple comforts of a hot spring.
Momon, however, was more focused on the fact that, despite the vast size of the hot spring, both of them had chosen to sit right next to him.
He glanced to his right—Miko's slender form was dangerously close, her towel clinging to her damp skin. The scent of sakura blossoms mixed with the steamy air around her, only adding to her usual allure.
He glanced to his left—Ei's presence was noticeably calmer but no less intense. The way the dim lantern light reflected off her damp shoulders and collarbone made her look almost ethereal, a goddess bathing in the divine glow of her own element.
Momon slowly exhaled. "I don't suppose either of you considered sitting… anywhere else?"
Miko chuckled, resting her cheek against her palm as she gazed at him with a knowing smirk. "Now, now, Momon. Why would we waste such a rare opportunity? Surely you wouldn't be so heartless as to chase us away?"
Ei simply closed her eyes, letting the warmth of the water soothe her senses. "I see no issue with our current arrangement."
Momon's skeletal fingers tapped against the stone edge of the hot spring.
This… is going to be a long bath.
Momon barely had time to process the presence of both women before he felt a soft touch against his skeletal chest.
"Woah, Momon~ so this is what your body looks like," Miko murmured, her voice dripping with curiosity and amusement as her slender fingers traced over his exposed ribcage. Her nails, painted a delicate shade of violet, lightly grazed the smooth, polished bone, sending an odd sensation through him—not pain, but something akin to a phantom reaction from nerves that no longer existed.
Momon exhaled, resting an elbow on the edge of the hot spring. "It's just bones, Miko." He shot her a dry look, crimson pinpricks glowing faintly in the darkness of his eye sockets. "What exactly were you expecting?"
Miko smirked, tilting her head slightly as she continued to run her fingers along the contours of his skeletal form. "Oh, I don't know~. Given how powerful you are, I suppose I was expecting something more divine… or monstrous." She tapped his ribcage lightly. "Instead, you're just—hmm, how should I put it?—elegantly ominous."
"Elegantly ominous?" Momon repeated, raising a nonexistent eyebrow.
"Yes," she purred, her ears twitching slightly. "Terrifying, yet oddly sophisticated. Truly befitting of someone as mysterious as you, Lord Momon."
He sighed. "Flattery won't get you anything, Miko."
"Oh? What a shame." Miko gave a playful pout before her gaze flickered downward, locking onto something beneath his ribcage.
Her teasing expression shifted slightly.
"The red sphere…"
Momon followed her line of sight, already knowing what had caught her attention.
Nestled within the hollow space beneath his ribs, pulsing with an almost hypnotic crimson glow, was a World-Class Item.
"It's even more mesmerizing up close," Miko muttered as she leaned in. "I can almost feel the power radiating from it…"
"I've been meaning to ask about that as well," Ei spoke up from Momon's left, her violet eyes sharp with intrigue. "You've mentioned before that it's a powerful artifact… but just how powerful is it?"
Momon shifted slightly in the water, glancing between the two. Their fascination was expected—after all, World-Class Items were beyond the comprehension of this world. Even he had only a surface-level understanding of their full potential.
"Yes," he admitted, "it is one of the most powerful items in my possession. A World-Class Item." His voice was steady, but there was a weight behind his words, a subtle reverence for the relic embedded within him.
Ei's gaze never wavered. "And you keep it beneath your ribs?"
Momon nodded. "Mostly for the aesthetic."
That answer made Miko chuckle. "Oh, so even an undead overlord like you cares about aesthetics?"
"I do," he admitted without hesitation. "But more importantly, keeping it within my body ensures that it remains protected. This isn't just any ordinary artifact—it is a shield, a safeguard against any enemy who might possess World Items of their own."
That statement made Ei narrow her eyes slightly. "So… there are other artifacts of this level? And potentially, other beings that could wield them?"
"Indeed," Momon confirmed. "Though I haven't encountered any —yet."
Miko rested her chin on her hand, her fox-like smile returning. "My, my… what a frightening thought. But I suppose it's only natural that someone as powerful as you would take extra precautions." She traced a delicate finger along the edge of the glowing sphere, the light reflecting off her eyes. "I must say… there's something quite beautiful about it. A forbidden kind of beauty."
Momon gave a small, knowing chuckle. "You'd be wise not to underestimate it. Even touching it carelessly could have unforeseen consequences."
Miko's ears twitched, but instead of pulling away, she smirked. "Oh? How dangerous. I like it even more now~."
Ei, however, remained more reserved. She stared at the artifact for a moment longer before speaking again. "If this sphere is truly as powerful as you claim… then I'm curious. If someone were to try and take it—"
"They wouldn't live long enough to succeed," Momon interrupted, his voice calm but absolute. The crimson glow of his eye sockets burned slightly brighter for a brief second. "It is bound to me. No force in this world could remove it against my will."
Ei nodded, seeming satisfied with that answer.
Miko, on the other hand, simply let out a small hum, her gaze flickering between Momon's exposed bones and the eerie glow of the World-Class Item. "Fascinating…" she murmured, before leaning back against the rocks with a satisfied sigh. "Well, I suppose that answers my questions… for now."
Momon shook his head and exhaled. These two are too curious for their own good…
Momon's deep, resonant voice broke the silence, his tone calm but carrying a hint of gravity. "There are around 200 of these World Class Items, but only 20 of them are unrivaled in terms of power. Sadly, they can only be used once and never again."
Ei's violet eyes widened slightly, her expression one of quiet fascination. "What type of power do they have?" she asked, her tone filled with curiosity.
Momon's response was calm but carried a hint of caution. "Power that can destroy the balance of the world or change the rules of the world."
Ei was visibly shocked by this information, her mind racing with the implications. Such power was beyond anything she had ever encountered. It was the kind of power that could bring even Celestia to its knees. The more she learned about Momon, the more terrifying—and awe-inspiring—he became. His power seemed limitless, a force of nature that defied comprehension.
Miko, ever the provocateur, leaned closer to Momon, her fingers brushing against the smooth, metallic surface of one of the rings on his skeletal hand. "Hmm… Momon, it seems you possess a ring on all your fingers. I guess they too are powerful items."
Momon turned his head slightly, his hollow eye sockets narrowing as he looked at her. "Yeah, they all have their own role in a battle," he said, his deep voice calm but carrying a hint of dry humor.
Miko's smile was unapologetic, her fox-like eyes glinting with mischief. "Is that so? What can this one do?" She pointed at one of the rings, her fingers tracing its intricate design.
Momon's response was calm but carried a hint of gravity. "This one? It protects me from divine magic."
Miko's eyes widened slightly, her curiosity piqued. "So from angels?" she asked, her tone filled with intrigue.
Momon shook his head, his tone matter-of-fact. "Not just angels. Every being that can use divine magic."
Ei, who had been quietly observing the exchange, leaned slightly closer, her violet eyes fixed on the ring. Her expression was one of quiet fascination, her gaze lingering on the intricate design. "Divine magic… That's a rare and powerful ability. To have protection against it is… impressive."
Momon's skeletal face gave nothing away, but his tone carried a hint of caution. "Divine magic is just one of many threats. These rings are tools, nothing more. They serve their purpose, but they're not invincible."
"I'm getting carried away… I shouldn't be explaining all this," Momon thought, a hint of regret creeping into his mind.
He had been too caught up in the conversation, too willing to share knowledge that was far beyond what this world should ever know. The moment he spoke about World-Class Items, he saw the way Ei's eyes sharpened—the way Miko leaned in closer, her curiosity practically devouring his every word.
The more he revealed, the more they wanted to know.
It was dangerous.
"I must not keep making the same mistake."
If he wasn't careful, he might let something slip—something that would shake the very foundation of Teyvat. He wasn't dealing with ordinary humans. Ei, the God of Eternity, had spent centuries warring for her vision of a perfect world. Miko, cunning and perceptive, knew exactly how to draw secrets out of him with her teasing words and sly touches.
They were already suspicious.
Already intrigued.
He could feel their gazes piercing through him, silently demanding more answers.
No.
This had to stop.
Carefully, he leaned back, his crimson gaze cooling, his tone returning to one of deliberate control.
"I've already said too much," he muttered.
A flicker of amusement danced across Miko's face, but Ei's expression remained unreadable.
Momon exhaled internally. Enough.
He wouldn't let himself make the same mistake again.
Miko's fingers lazily trailed across Momon's chest, the sharp contrast between her soft touch and his hardened skeletal form sending a strange sensation through him—if he could even call it that. She hummed in amusement before her gaze flickered downward, her fox-like eyes narrowing with curiosity.
Beneath the rippling surface of the steaming water, she noticed something. A towel, wrapped snugly around his waist.
"Oh? Momon~," Miko purred, mischief lacing her tone. "Why are you covering yourself with a towel? Fufufu~ Could it be… you're hiding another powerful item down there?"
Ei's brows furrowed as she shot Miko a disapproving glance. "Miko, that's inappropriate."
Miko simply giggled, her violet eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, come now, Ei. I'm merely curious. Since he's a skeleton… well, I just have to wonder." She leaned in closer, her lips curling into a playful smirk.
Momon exhaled through his nonexistent lungs. "I'm not here for a quick rinse after battle, Miko. This is a hot spring. And it became a public hot spring the moment you two walked in," he stated matter-of-factly, folding his arms across his chest.
"You're avoiding my question, Momon." Miko smirked and reached up, placing a delicate finger under his chin.
Ei watched their exchange with quiet contemplation. She had noticed Miko's relentless teasing since the beginning, her lingering touches, her sultry tone. It was… unusual. Why was she acting this way around Momon? Was it simply her usual playful nature, or was there something more?
Ei herself found Momon intriguing—his existence, his power, the enigma that surrounded him. He defied the very logic of their world. Yet Miko… she was behaving as though she were weaving an intricate game, a slow, deliberate seduction.
Momon, however, had grown tired of the charade.
In one swift movement, his large skeletal hand descended and grasped Miko's plump rear, his bony fingers sinking into her soft flesh with an audible squeeze.
The reaction was immediate.
Miko's body tensed, her breath catching in her throat as a rush of heat flooded her face. A rare moment of genuine surprise flickered across her features before she parted her lips in a sultry, breathless laugh.
"Oh my~," she exhaled, biting her lower lip. "Momon… getting aggressive now, are we?"
A flicker of amusement shone in his crimson eyes. "Well, I suppose you're in heat," he said, his voice low, deliberate.
Before Miko could offer another teasing remark, Momon pulled her onto his lap with ease, his grip on her firm. The water sloshed around them as her body pressed against his, her damp towel barely acting as a barrier between them.
Miko, always one to take the offensive, leaned in and claimed his lips without hesitation.
She had expected the sensation of bone—the cold, rigid touch of teeth against her own. But instead, what she felt was… flesh.
Her violet eyes widened slightly mid-kiss before she pulled back, staring at him in confusion.
"Momon… what was that?"
"That," he said calmly, "is an invisible skin."
Miko blinked, her fingers instinctively moving to touch his chest again. And this time, she felt it—smooth, firm, warm skin.
Her mind reeled. This entire time…?
Slowly, a smirk curled on her lips. Her suspicions had been correct. Momon's body was not just a skeleton. No, he had the perfect body, hidden beneath an illusion.
And now… she was even more interested.
Ei sat in the steaming water, her usually composed expression betraying her inner turmoil. Her violet eyes flickered between Miko and Momon, watching as the playful fox-eared woman teased and touched him with an almost predatory delight. Miko's soft laughter filled the air, blending with the gentle bubbling of the hot spring, yet to Ei, it sounded distant—muffled beneath the weight of her own hesitations.
She had always been someone who observed first, acted later. A ruler, a god, a warrior—never one to indulge in frivolous matters. And yet, as she watched Miko trace her fingers across Momon's skeletal chest, Ei felt a strange pang within her. It wasn't jealousy, was it? No… but there was something unfamiliar, something foreign blooming within her.
Momon, for his part, seemed entirely unaffected by Miko's blatant teasing. His deep, otherworldly voice carried a note of bemusement, but he did not push her away. He entertained her games, answering her questions with an air of indifference, as if he had encountered this kind of flirtation countless times before. Perhaps he had.
Ei's fingers lightly grazed the surface of the water, the warmth seeping into her skin as she tried to make sense of what she was feeling. She had always been intrigued by Momon, but seeing him in this setting—so relaxed, yet commanding—stirred something deeper. The way he spoke of his power, the way he carried himself without arrogance, yet with undeniable strength… it was captivating.
Still, she felt out of place. Miko had always been bold, unafraid to take what she wanted, to chase pleasure with playful confidence. Ei, on the other hand, had spent centuries in isolation, suppressing emotions she deemed unnecessary. And now, in this moment, she realized she didn't know how to react.
Should she say something? Should she reach out?
Her fingers curled into a soft fist beneath the water. She could feel her heart—or whatever she had in place of one—beating a little faster.
"Fufu~ if you have invisible skin, that means there is something down there beneath the towel.
Miko removed his towel from his waist only to be shocked at how massive his thing was. "My, my~ I wonder why a skeleton like you has a genitalia?"
"You are not the first lustful woman I have encountered in my journey, you know." said Momon.
"To be honest I am not surprised. You really are something else…" Miko kissed Momon again while stroking. "Mmm, this is way better than any sexual part of any Light Novel I have read or written."
Miko turned to her friend, a knowing smirk dancing on her lips. "Ei, you're awfully quiet over there," she purred. "Are you just going to sit and watch, or do you want to join in?"
Ei's breath caught in her throat.
Momon's gaze flickered toward her, his glowing red dots unreadable beneath the shadows cast by the steam. "You don't have to force yourself, Ei," he said calmly. "Miko just enjoys testing people's limits."
Miko giggled, resting her chin on Momon's shoulder. "Oh, I do love a challenge. But Ei, darling, I'm sure you must be at least a little curious~."
Ei swallowed. Was she?
Her grip on her own emotions was slipping, and for the first time in a long while, she wasn't sure if she minded.
Momon shifted uncomfortably in the hot spring, his glowing crimson eyes narrowing slightly. This strange, intimate scenario—was something he found completely out of his depth.
"You know what," he said, his voice deep and unwavering, though tinged with an unusual stiffness. "Let's just stop doing this. This is getting too weird."
He moved to rise, intending to put some distance between himself and Miko's teasing, but before he could take another step, he felt a sudden tug on his arm.
Warmth.
Soft hands grasped him with a surprising firmness. He barely had time to react before Ei—silent, reserved Ei—pulled him toward her. In an instant, her lips met his.
Momon froze.
For a moment, the world around them seemed to slow. The gentle bubbling of the hot spring, the distant rustling of wind against the trees, the heat pressing against his unseen skin—all of it became background noise compared to the sensation of Ei's lips against his own.
She was hesitant at first, her movements careful, as if testing unfamiliar waters. But then, with a slow inhale, she pressed closer, wrapping her arms around his neck. Her grip tightened slightly, as if anchoring herself to him, afraid he might pull away.
Miko, who had been watching with amused interest, let out a delighted laugh. "Oh my, Ei~! I didn't expect you to be so bold." She leaned on the edge of the spring, one elbow resting lazily on the smooth rock as she observed the unfolding scene. "You're getting greedy now, Ei."
Ei ignored her.
Her eyes remained shut, her heart pounding in her chest like a war drum. She wasn't sure what had come over her. Perhaps it was Miko's relentless teasing, or maybe it was the way Momon carried himself—so powerful yet untouchable, an enigma she found herself drawn to. Or perhaps, deep down, she had always been curious but had lacked the courage to act.
But now, with her lips pressed to "his", she wasn't thinking about the consequences.
Momon finally moved.
He didn't push her away, but instead, his skeletal hands—still shrouded in the illusion of invisible skin—gently rested on her waist. He didn't reciprocate with the same hunger as she did, but he didn't reject her either. It was clear he wasn't used to this kind of intimacy, but he allowed her to continue, his touch neither cold nor warm, but firm.
After a moment that felt like an eternity, Ei pulled away slightly, her face just inches from his. Her violet eyes flickered with a mixture of emotions—uncertainty, excitement, and something deeper, something she wasn't ready to name.
Momon exhaled slowly, his glowing eyes locked onto hers. "Ei… what was that about?" His tone wasn't reprimanding, nor was it encouraging. It was simply… confused.
Ei swallowed, trying to find her voice. "I just… wanted to know," she admitted softly.
Miko, clearly enjoying the spectacle, let out a small chuckle. "Oh, Ei, you're adorable. I knew you had it in you~."
"You girls have gone totally off the line," Momon said, his deep, resonant voice carrying a hint of dry humor. "And at this point, I'm not going to back down."
With a wave of his hand, he uttered the incantation, "[Create Greater Item]." The air shimmered momentarily, and out of thin air, a luxurious bed materialized. It was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, its frame adorned with intricate carvings and its surface covered in soft, plush fabrics that seemed to glow in the warm light of the hot spring.
Momon's movements were swift and deliberate. He reached out, his skeletal hands surprisingly gentle yet firm as he grabbed both Ei and Miko. Before they could react, he lifted them effortlessly and tossed them onto the bed. The two women landed with a soft thud, their expressions a mix of surprise and amusement.
Miko's laughter was light and melodic, her fox-like eyes glinting with mischief as she propped herself up on her elbows. "My, oh my~ This is getting very romantic, and I can't wait," she said, her tone dripping with playful anticipation.
Momon stepped closer, his skeletal form towering over them as he leaned down, his voice calm but carrying a hint of something more. "You've both been pushing my limits all evening. Now it's my turn to take control."
The atmosphere in the room shifted, the playful banter giving way to something more intimate. The steam from the hot spring swirled around them, creating a hazy, dreamlike environment that seemed to heighten the tension in the air. The soft glow of the lanterns cast a warm, golden light over the scene, their flickering flames adding to the sense of anticipation.
Miko's smile was radiant, her playful demeanor undiminished as she reached out to Momon, her fingers brushing against his skeletal hand. "Well, don't keep us waiting, Momon. We're all ears… and more."
Ei, though initially hesitant, found herself drawn into the moment. Her violet eyes met Momon's hollow gaze, her expression softening as she reached out to him, her touch gentle but filled with a quiet intensity. "Momon…" she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
And so it began. The three of them came together in a moment of passion and intimacy, their connection deepening as the night wore on. The bed, created by Momon's magic, became a sanctuary of their own, a place where the boundaries between them blurred and the world outside ceased to exist.
The steam from the hot spring continued to rise, swirling around them like a gentle embrace as they lost themselves in each other. The soft glow of the lanterns cast a warm, golden light over the scene, their flickering flames adding to the sense of intimacy and connection.
As the night deepened, the sounds of their passion filled the room, a symphony of whispered words, soft laughter, and quiet moans.
Snezhnaya
The grand room in Snezhnaya was a somber and eerie place, lit only by the flickering glow of countless candles. Their flames cast long, dancing shadows across the cold stone walls, creating an atmosphere that was both solemn and unsettling. The air was heavy with the scent of wax and something darker—something metallic and faintly acrid, like the lingering tang of blood. At the center of the room stood six tables, each bearing the lifeless body of an astrologist. These were no ordinary corpses; their deaths had been anything but natural.
Pierro, the Director of the Fatui, stood before the tables, his tall, imposing figure cloaked in dark robes that seemed to absorb the candlelight. His masked face gave nothing away, but the tension in his posture and the sharp glint in his visible eye betrayed his anger and frustration. He moved slowly from one table to the next, his boots echoing softly against the stone floor as he examined the gruesome remains.
The first body belonged to a man whose head had been utterly obliterated. What remained of his skull was a shattered, unrecognizable mess, as if some immense force had exploded from within. The second body was a charred skeleton, its bones blackened and brittle, the flesh completely incinerated. The third was a woman, her face frozen in a mask of agony, her eyes, mouth, nose, and ears crusted with dried blood that had poured out in a horrific torrent. The other three bodies were no less horrifying—one had been twisted into an unnatural contortion, another had been reduced to a puddle of liquefied flesh, and the last appeared to have aged centuries in moments, her body withered and desiccated.
Pierro's gloved hand clenched into a fist as he stared down at the remains. "How… is this even possible?" he muttered, his voice low and gravelly, carrying a note of disbelief. The astrologists had been in Snezhnaya, safely within the walls of the Fatui's stronghold, when they had attempted to spy on the battle between the Electro Archon and the Honorary Knight. They had been using their specialized Divination magic to observe the conflict from afar, a technique that should have been untraceable and risk-free. And yet, here they were—dead, their bodies mutilated in ways that defied explanation.
One of the Fatui agents standing nearby, a nervous-looking man with a clipboard, cleared his throat. "Lord Pierro, we've examined the bodies thoroughly. There's no sign of external intervention. No weapons, no toxins, no traces of elemental energy. It's as if… as if their own magic turned against them."
Pierro's visible eye narrowed, his mind racing. "Their own magic… turned against them?" he repeated, his tone icy. "Explain."
The agent hesitated, clearly uneasy. "It's just a theory, my lord, but… it's possible that whatever they were observing had some kind of countermeasure. Something that not only detected their intrusion but retaliated with overwhelming force. The nature of their deaths suggests that their magic was somehow… reversed, or corrupted."
Pierro's jaw tightened beneath his mask. He turned back to the bodies, his gaze lingering on the woman whose face was frozen in agony. "The Honorary Knight," he said quietly, almost to himself. "Momon. He was the one they were observing. If what you're saying is true, then he not only detected their magic but destroyed them from thousands of miles away."
The room fell silent, the weight of Pierro's words hanging heavy in the air. The other Fatui agents exchanged uneasy glances, their fear palpable. The idea that someone could retaliate with such precision and brutality, across such a vast distance, was almost incomprehensible.
Pierro straightened, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "This changes everything. If Momon possesses this level of power, then he is far more dangerous than we anticipated. We cannot afford to underestimate him."
One of the agents, a woman with sharp features and a cold demeanor, stepped forward. "My lord, what are your orders? Do we continue our surveillance of him?"
Pierro's visible eye gleamed with a dangerous intensity. "No. For now, we pull back. We observe from a distance, but we do not engage. Not until we understand the full extent of his abilities. And we must inform Her Majesty the Tsaritsa immediately. She needs to know what we're dealing with."
The agents nodded, their expressions grim. As they began to disperse, Pierro remained by the tables, his gaze fixed on the bodies. His mind was racing, piecing together what little information they had. The Honorary Knight was no mere adventurer—he was a force of nature, a being whose power defied comprehension. And if he could do this to their astrologists, what else was he capable of?
The candles flickered, their light casting long shadows across the room. Pierro's gloved hand rested on the edge of one of the tables, his fingers brushing against the cold, lifeless hand of the woman who had died in agony. "Momon," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "Who are you… and what do you want?"
The flickering candlelight barely reached the farthest corners of the grand chamber, leaving parts of the room swallowed in darkness. The air was thick with the iron scent of blood, mingling with the cold bite of Snezhnaya's relentless winter that seeped through the stone walls. The six lifeless bodies remained undisturbed, their contorted forms a grotesque testament to their final, agonizing moments.
A heavy silence loomed as Pierro stood at the head of the room, his calculating gaze fixed upon the corpses. Behind his mask, his mind worked tirelessly to unravel the impossible.
Then, from the farthest shadows of the chamber, a soft, lilting voice broke the silence.
"You look very uncomfortable, Pierro."
The voice was gentle, almost sweet, yet it carried an eerie undertone—like the quiet hum of a lullaby before an inevitable nightmare.
From the abyss of darkness, a figure emerged with an almost ethereal grace. She was a young woman, her porcelain skin appearing almost ghostly under the dim light. Long black hair cascaded past her shoulders, streaked with dark pink and magenta highlights, intricately tied into two side plaits with an X-shaped white ribbon. At the back of her head, several white feather-like ornaments, reminiscent of dove wings, swayed gently with her movements.
She was draped in an elegant yet unsettling white garment, her form adorned with delicate lace and ribbons that contrasted starkly against the macabre scene before her. Most haunting of all was her mask—a lace covering shaped like an 'X,' concealing her seemingly always-closed eyes.
Pierro's gaze did not waver, but there was a subtle shift in his posture as he acknowledged her presence.
"Columbina," he spoke, his voice steady but measured.
The woman known as the Third of the Fatui Harbingers, Damselette, let out a small, melodic hum as she took a few slow steps forward, the soft click of her heels barely audible over the crackling of the candle flames. She tilted her head slightly, her lips curling into a delicate, unreadable smile.
"Do you fear me, dear Director?" Columbina asked, placing a pale hand over her chest in mock concern. "You look as though you've seen a phantom."
Pierro exhaled through his nose, unimpressed by her theatrics. "Do not be ridiculous. Of course not."
Columbina giggled, the sound airy yet unnatural, like a songbird mimicking human laughter.
Pierro, unwilling to entertain her games any further, gestured toward the six corpses. "Then perhaps you would care to explain this."
Columbina's expression did not change, but she slowly turned her head towards the bodies. She observed them with a detached curiosity, as if she were admiring a piece of art rather than the remnants of six slaughtered individuals.
"Ah…" she sighed, clasping her hands together. "It is very unfortunate to lose such valuable astrologers in the line of duty."
Pierro's eyes narrowed. He knew she did not care. Not truly. Columbina's words were empty pleasantries, spoken simply for the sake of performance.
"Do you have any idea how this could have happened?" he pressed.
Columbina placed a delicate finger against her lips, as though in deep thought. Then, she sighed in a slow, almost wistful manner.
"Not really," she admitted. "But..." A small, knowing smile curled at the edges of her lips. "This Honorary Knight... Momon... he has piqued my interest."
Pierro did not react immediately. He had expected her to say something like that.
"And what of it?" he asked.
Columbina took another step forward, now standing beside one of the corpses. Her fingers traced the edge of the obsidian table, her touch unnervingly gentle.
"From what I've heard," she mused, "his power... it does not belong to Teyvat. It is something else entirely. A completely different system of magic, one that does not adhere to the principles of this world."
Pierro inhaled sharply. That much he had begun to suspect himself.
"We have no time for what piques your interest, Columbina," he said coldly. "We have our hands full as it is."
Columbina let out another small, musical laugh. "Oh, but dear Director," she cooed, "a completely different system of power… doesn't that intrigue you even slightly?"
She paused, letting her words settle in the air like a creeping fog. Then, her voice dropped to a whisper—soft, but chilling.
"Momon is either a long-forgotten god from ancient times…" she tilted her head slightly, "or..." her smile widened just a fraction, "a Descender."
The moment the word left her lips, a thick silence filled the chamber.
Pierro's thoughts came to an abrupt halt. A Descender. The mere suggestion sent ripples through his mind. His gaze darkened, his fingers curling behind his back as he processed the weight of her words.
The Fatui knew of only four Descenders.
The first was the Traveler, the one who had arrived in Teyvat from beyond the stars. But if Momon truly wielded power foreign to this world… could it be possible that he, too, did not belong to Teyvat?
Pierro's mind raced with calculations, possible contingencies, and threats. If Momon was indeed a Descender, then his very existence disrupted the delicate balance of Teyvat. He was an anomaly, a wild card—one that could either be a great asset or a catastrophic adversary.
Columbina observed him in silence, her expression unreadable. But there was something in the way she lingered—something knowing.
Finally, Pierro spoke. His voice was cold and resolute.
"Find out everything." His gaze burned with determination. "No matter the cost, I want to know exactly what Momon is."
Columbina smiled sweetly, tilting her head as if listening to a distant melody only she could hear.
"As you wish, dear Director," she murmured.
And with that, the shadows seemed to stretch around her, and in a blink, she was gone—leaving Pierro alone in the cold, standing among the dead, lost in the weight of a terrible realization.