Chapter Text

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PROLOGUE: THE WORLD IS FUCKED!

• So, once upon a time, the universe existed. Hear me out here, okay? It. It exists.
• There are worlds that are created from pre-existing worlds. Some people call them Simulated Worlds, Bubble Worlds, etc. It honestly just. Doesn't matter what you call them. Just know that these worlds are created as soon as someone creates them.
• The initial creator of that world creates the "seed"--this seed has blueprints on the initial version of the world. Major characters, events, locations, et cedera.
• From there, the seed grows overtime as it's introduced into the rules of reality. As the seed "sprouts", it grows into a beautiful tree, branching out to create differing worlds. The farther up the tree? The farther away from the original seed it becomes. And when it becomes different enough, that world disconnects from that tree and becomes it's own world seperated from this system.
• Each world has two things it's born with. Some have dubbed this a God Program and the World System.
• A God Program is basically what it sounds like. Each world needs to have a protector, a parental-like figure to watch over it. They're not allowed to intervene unless the World System allows it to.
• Then there's the World System. The World System is like the child, growing and ever-changing, adapting and living it's own life under the protection of the God Program. However, it is vulnerable, and needs to be protected at all costs.
• The two work together in tandem to keep the flow of that world safe. Everything there is left to develop on it's own.
• Except, there's just... one thing that exists. Something that can disrupt that harmony.
• It's said long ago, not long after the universe was created, a tragedy struck, and corruption spread across the world. A struggle for complete control over order and chaos. Thus was born a Seed of MAlice--a SOMA.
• When a SOMA comes into contact with a God Program, it will corrupt it. There are only ever two outcomes: the God Program will seek to destroy the world entirely, or will attempt to "recreate" it into the perfect blueprint of the original "Seed" the world stemmed from
• This phenomena was the same phenomena that struck one of the Genshin Worlds. The World of Stars and Asters.
• Welcome. Let's start the Game.

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CHAPTER 1.0.1: The Painstakingly Long Tutorial - Welcome to Teyvat

• Ah, Teyvat. Beautiful, innit? Amazing world full of--
• Oh shit, nope, wait. Nevermind. Wake up, bitches, time to run, because the Cataclysm (chat noir??) happened.
• So we introduce our two heroes, Aether and Lumine. They wanna escape Teyvat, and then Miss Totally Not Kiana The Unknown God, Asmoday (we think that's her name) shows up, forbidding the Travelers from escaping.
• Fun Fact: That Unknown God? That's our corrupted God Program right there, taking the form of the most powerful entity in the world at present to exert control. So far, nothing's gone wrong. Haha. Haha.
• Hah.
• Anyway, Aether and Lumine decide to fight her, flying towards her, and then just as they dive up and are about to strike, the Unknown God freezes Lumine first.
• Panicking, Aether calls out to Lumine before diving at the Unknown God. Yup. Aether is the prota--
• Nope. Wait. Hold on. Wh... What's happening with Lumine's prison?
• Suddenly, something LITERALLY NO ONE SEES COMING, Lumine breaks out, and through some unknown ability, is able to teleport RIGHT BEHIND THE UNKNOWN GOD, THIS CLOSE to getting a headshot.
• Panicked, the Unknown God instead freezes Aether. Lumine calls out his name, then goes to strike again, only to be frozen second, crying out for the Unknown God to give Aether back.
• Lumine, in the World System's eyes, has now been fully registered as the Traveler. While Aether, registered as the Abyss Prince.
• So, fun fact: according to the "original world seed", that wasn't supposed to happen. Aether was supposed to be the protagonist, not Lumine. Like... something was wrong.
• And the God Program? Was pissed.
• She kept demanding that the World System reset. Again and again, but the World System refused. The only way the World System would reset was if the God Program reset with it.

God Program: Everything went wrong... you were supposed to be the Abyss Monarch, not your brother...!
God Program: No matter... I can simply restart--
World System: Failed to execute deletion due to preexisting condition.
God Program: ...Condition? What condition?! The condition claimed that her brother remain the protagonist. If she fails that condition--
World System: Teyvat ver. 5410010 World Console Rule No. 1 - The twin who is first reduced to nothing via the Unknown God is embedded with the Abyssal Monarch spirit data, whereas the leftover twin is embedded with the Traveler Twin spirit data.
God Program: But resetting is the only way to get the story to work--
World System: Teyvat ver. 5410010 World Console Rule No. 1 Clause 1 - Once the Traveler and Abyssal Twins have been decided, this decision is permanent and no resetting is allowed. The only options include: deletion of the world console and the Overseer, continue with the storyline.
God Program: ...That little bitch...
God Program: Show me her data. Now.

• The World System pulls up Lumine's data, and something of note is... different about her.

Avatar Name: Female Traveler
Nickname: Lumine
Model Type: Girl
Weapon Type: Sword
Element: Changeable
Special Condition: Carrier of the Charitas Gene

• For simplicity's sake, I'm not gonna explain what the Charitas Gene is. But the God Program is definitely not happy about it, far as I can tell.

(eyo ma'am we get it, youre miguel o'hara but a bitch goddamn--)

• And so, Lumine falls asleep for 500 years. And now, we reach Mondstadt's beach, where she talks to Paimon and recaps her on everything that happened.
• Paimon is also a literal fish out of water (get it? Because. Because she was fished out? ...okay, I'll see myself out--)
• The two became close friends over the past two months and Paimon decides that their first stop should be Mondstadt! Which is. Literally right there. (like c'mon guys, it took you this long to figure it out?)
• Also because I like showcasing character moments, please enjoy the two's banter. Please. They're actual sisters.

Lumine: You know... I never really understood how you could've nearly drowned.
Paimon: What do you mean by that?
Lumine: Oh, nothing...
Lumine: I mean, you could've just flown out of the water.
Paimon: Hey! J-Just so you know, there's LOTS of other animals that can fly, but they ended up drowning too! 
Lumine: That's because their wings got damaged and they couldn't fly out the water. And, as far as I'm aware, Paimon? You don't have wings.
Paimon: (unconvincingly) W-well... u-uh... it was... Paimon's legs! Yeah, her legs! They were super sore!
Lumine: (chuckling) Mhm. Sure, they were.

• The two head over to the first Statue of the Seven they find, and Paimon catches Lumine up on some of the "lore" of the world--about the Archons, about the elements, the statues. And then, immediately, Paimon just. Tells Lumine to touch the statue.

Paimon: Hey, maybe you should try touching it!
Lumine: Uh, what--
Paimon: You heard Paimon! Touch the statue and pray to it!
Lumine: Those are two entirely different things--

• And so, Lumine resonates with Anemo...
• ...and accidentally windblades herself backwards onto the ground.
• Paimon reveals that Lumine was likely blessed with Barbatos' blessing, the Anemo Archon, and that Mondstadt City would gladly welcome her in (to Lumine's confusion, because that's like calling the capital of England "England City", but whatever--)
• Before they can decide to move there, gigantic-ass dragon flies over. The two go to check it out and see a green bard (we know it's Venti, this is very much obvious by now) talking to a dragon.
• As the two peek in, Paimon accidentally floats too close, losing balance and bumping into Lumine, who creates a large blast of Anemo energy, startling the dragon.
• The dragon flies off and Venti disappears. When they go to search for it, they find a red teardrop and have. No clue what to do with it. Lumine holds it in her hand.

Lumine: Huh... never seen anything like this before.
Paimon: Paimon hasn't either! She can't tell what it is, but looks like we'll just have to take it with us!
Lumine: You're saying we have to hold this the entire way? It's not like I have a bag or anything...
Paimon: U-uh, m-maybe we...

• The crystal randomly dissipates while the two ponder and Lumine and Paimon scream.

Lumine: T-THE CRYSTAL?!
Paimon: WHERE'D IT GO?! WHERE'D IT GO?!
Lumine: DON'T ASK ME! I WAS JUST HOLDING IT AND THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN--

• The crystal reappears in Lumine's held out hands. Paimon and Lumine scream again, Lumine falling backwards as it hovers.

Lumine: It just... a-appeared again.
Paimon: M-maybe... perhaps...
Paimon: Oh! Maybe you have a psychic storage space that you learned about from another world!

• Half-right. It's the World System working in the "game inventory" mechanic.

Lumine: Yeah, no, I don't think that's it.

• It's kinda that.
• Anyway, Lumine tests it again, concentrating carefully, only for it to dissipate into thin air. She stares at her palms and--yeah, no, it's definitely gone now.

Paimon: And now it's gone again!
Lumine: Seems like along with my Anemo prowess, I can summon items and store them at well...
Paimon: So it IS a psychic storage space...
Lumine: I'd like to think of it as a virtual inventory.
Paimon: Haaah, well, if that's really what you think, then Paimon won't correct you...

• Virtual Inventory now introduced as an actual living breathing mechanic that Lumine can utilize as hammer space, they trek to the Whispering Woods, where they meet Amber, who is all like "hey you kinda sus"
• Paimon and Lumine give Amber some sas, hilarity ensuing

Amber: You don't look like citizens of Mondstadt. Explain yourselves!
Paimon: WE'RE NOT DOING ANYTHING ILLEGAL!
Lumine: (internally) Only criminals say that kind of thing...?!
Lumine: Sorry, ignore her. She's not good under pressure. I'm Lumine, and that's Paimon. We're really not looking for any trouble.
Amber: Hmm... Lumine and Paimon, huh? Doesn't sound like any local names to me.
Lumine: (internally) Not wrong...
Amber: Well, other than your odd clothing style, you're clear, Lumine.
Lumine and Paimon: (internally) Like your clothing is anymore conventional?!

• No more time for chit chat, girls, because we got an issue with Hilichurs! Lumine feels like she can hear some sort of "Amber has joined your party" ringing in the back of her head, but she shakes it off as something she thought of herself.
• So they find a Hilichurl Camp, and here is where we immediately start deviating.

Paimon: Whoa…! An entire Hilichurl Camp!
Lumine: A Hili-what?
Amber: Those. Hilichurls.

• Amber points to the Hilichurls eating and dancing around a fire. Some are sharpening their axes, others stringing their bows.

Lumine: ...they look... kinda cute.
Amber: Yeah, they seem cute, but they can get aggressive to people like you and me. They're too close to the city, so my task this time is to clear out their camp.
Lumine: Wait, why can't we just say 'hi' and ask them politely to leave?
Amber: B-Because they don't speak our language--wait, Traveler? Where are you going?!

• Lumine then decides it's a smart idea to walk up to one of the hilichurls who's happily eating a Sunsettia. She kneels down and tries to talk to them.

Lumine: Um... Hi there, little fella.
Hilichurl: ...? Ya!

• The Hilichurl stands up, grabbing the club next to him and ready to hit Lumine. He drops his Sunsettia on the ground, but Lumine holds out her arm as if trying to show she means no harm.

Lumine: H-hey, no... uh... no fight!
Paimon: Lumine, they won't listen! Hilichurls aren't--
Lumine: Shh, I think I'm making progress...!

• Though she struggles, she tries to reason with the Hilichurl and hands it the Sunsettia, hoping to reason.

Lumine: Here… go on, take it.

• The Hilichurl looks at her hand, then to the others in his group. They too seem puzzled, but do nothing. Finally, the Hilichurl takes the Sunsettia into his palms and stares at Lumine, before dancing a bit.

Paimon: …h-he… he seems happy…!
Hilichurl: Valo valo! Ya mi tomo!

• A flash of recognition appears in Lumine's eyes, as if she understands what the Hilichurl is saying. This shouldn't be normal, but she knows anyway. So, she continues conversing.

Lumine: You're welcome. Hey, do you think you can move the camp a little farther into the forest?
Hilichurl: Dala?
Lumine: Mm… mostly because the other people might be too scared of you, so they'll try and attack.
Hilichurl: Mm…

• The Hilichurl turns to his friends and starts speaking, Lumine understanding that he's requesting to move the camp farther from the city. After a bit, he returns to conversing with Lumine. Paimon and Amber look from afar in bewilderment.

Amber (shouting): What did he say?
Lumine (shouting): He said that they were told to be stationed here by someone, but since I asked nicely, they'll move!

• The Hilichurls seem happy that they were able to communicate, and suddenly, the one friendly Hilichurl runs over to the inside of the main hut, motioning Lumine to come over.
• Lumine follows, and in front of the Friendly Hilichurl is a small, common chest. Lumine, in shock, looks at him as if affirming what the Hilichurl is offering. He nods in response, and Lumine opens it. Inside, however, is something uncommon…
• Inside of the chest is a sword and a bow. The sword is glowing brightly with an aqua-green hue, while the bow seems to have the same sigil that Amber wears on her outrider outfit.
• The Hilichurls wave goodbye to the trio as Lumine hands the bow over to Amber, keeping the sword in her grasp. Paimon and Amber are both astonished, as the Hilichurls fulfill their promise and start to move out further into the forest.

Amber: …How… did you do that?
Paimon: Paimon's never seen someone interact with Hilichurls like that before…
Lumine: Wait, really? No one's asked nicely?
Amber: I mean, we've tried, but they couldn't understand us. It usually led to them getting upset and lashing out at us, so whenever they see a person, they strike first on reflex.
Lumine: Well… that one Hilichurl said he'd try putting in a good word for me with the other tribes. So, maybe the issue's solved?
Paimon: You understood Hilichurlian! That's amazing!
Lumine: Just a bit. I'm more surprised he understood me. He seems like a sweet guy--seems like he's the youngest of the group.
Amber: All that information from a single exchange with a Hilichurl… Ella Musk would be impressed…

• Aside from me restraining myself from wishing Ella Musk's name was changed, the group then realizes that Amber gained a Favonius Warbow. And, for some reason... Luine has the Aquila Favonia?
• No one really knows why, but anyway, the group heads back to Mondstadt. Amber catches 'em up: Stormterror is a big dragon that brings gigantic storms whenever he's near, and so Mondstadt's in a tight spot. The Knights of Favonius also have to deal with Hilichurls moving closer and closer into the city, but Lumine realizes something.

Lumine (internally): It doesn't add up... the Hilichurl I talked to said they were told to be stationed there, like they were told by a tactician. Not to mention the person in green who talked to the dragon… something's not right.

• Detective Lumine, who decided to turn into Rosa from Tears of Themis for a good bit, then goes with Paimon and Amber to Mondstadt.

• They take a tour around the city, which is pretty empty, and learn about what Mondstadt is like. Lumine makes mental note to never indulge in any of the taverns because she apparently might get too caught up in taste-testing wine to the point where she'll become flat-out drunk. Sasuga Traveler.
• And then, Lumine is given a Wind Glider by Amber. She glides around, and suddenly, when she lands, the wind glider dissipates. Amber explains this to Lumine. More mechanics.

Amber: Wow, you did pretty well! And it seems like the Wind Glider recognized you as it's owner.
Paimon: "Recognized"? What's that mean?
Amber: : Some of the items in this world have a will imbedded in them, like my new bow!
Amber summons the bow in her hands, which seems to come out of nowhere. This surprises Paimon and Lumine.
Amber: See, if an item recognizes you as it's owner and synchronizes with you, you can summon it at will! Practically appears and disappears when you ask it to. Cool trick, right?
Paimon: So that's what it is!
Amber: Though it's a bit strange. Usually, only Vision holders can achieve this, but… as far as I can see, you don't have a Vision, Traveler.
Lumine: …a Vision?
Amber: Yeah. A Vision! You see, a Vision is--!

• Woops, sorry walking exposition, but we got a dragon to deal with! A tornado begins to form--multiple tornadoes in fact, and as Amber and Paimon run away, Lumine gets Dorothy'd up into the air. Paimon and Amber try to hold her down, but nope.
• But, with Venti's help, Lumine remains stable. She's instructed by Venti to "deal with Dvalin".

Venti: You're doing great! Keep it up!
Lumine: It'd be nice if you could've introduced yourself before you put me in this situation!
Venti: You really want an introduction at a time like this?! Mondstadt needs your help!
Lumine: Okay, but when this is all over, I EXPECT answers!

• On the ground, Paimon is watching worriedly for Lumine and is this close to flying in, but Amber is busy evacuating citizens.

Amber: Paimon, there's some citizens trying to seek shelter! We have to help!
Paimon: B-but…! But what about--?
Amber (serious): I know you're worried about your partner, but she looks like she can fend off Mondstadt against the dragon. Right now, these innocent people can't. I need your help.

• Paimon seems unsure, looking back up at the sky for Lumine. Amber again asks, but this time, it comes out more as a plea.

Amber: Please…

• Paimon then looks at Amber, nodding. Amber runs off, trying to help out innocents. Paimon hesitates, looking up at the sky one last time.

Paimon: …please be okay, Lumine…!

• She then flies off in Amber's direction, assisting as best as she can.
• Meanwhile, there's this guy... a guy with an eyepatch awtching from afar. He's doing that "cool guy" pose, leaning against the support beam of a building. Congratulations--we've met Kaeya.

Kaeya: So, an Outlander has come to save us from the big, scary dragon. How amusing…

• Lisa, who is actually doing work for once, scolds Kaeya as she escorts a woman and her child to safety

Lisa: Kaeya! A little bit of help would be appreciated.
Kaeya: Right. Sorry. Got distracted by the light show. 
Lisa: Kaeya, not now!
Kaeya: Alright, alright. I'm coming. No need to worry so much, Lisa.

• While he's busy, though, he still is thinking heavily about that person in the sky... wondering about something. But, oh well, whatever.

• After some time passes, Lumine successfully shoos Dvalin away and lands on the ground, where Paimon tearfully hugs Lumine tightly, glad she's okay.
• Anyway, then Kaeya comes up

Kaeya (clapping): Well, well, well. You've actually got the power to go up against the dragon...
Lumine: ?
Kaeya: Are you perhaps a new ally...
Kaeya: Or a new storm?
Lumine and Paimon (staring): ...
Paimon (whispering): Is he really a Knight?
Lumine (whispering): No, I think he's a pirate.
Kaeya (surprised): Huh. That's. Not the reaction I was expecting.

• Anyway, we're introduced to Kaeya and the group heads to the Knights of Favonius, where they meet Jean and Lisa and basically go over how fucked the shit is.

Jean: So that's the situation. Stormterror's power sources must be cut off, and we need your help. I promise, we will help you seek out your brother.
Lisa: Mhm. That's right, cuties!
Lumine: ...
Lumine: Okay so... stop THAT.
Lisa: Hm?
Lumine: And also, how... many Temples are we dealing with?
Kaeya: Three of the Four Temples.
Lumine: ...
Lumine: I'm sorry, what happened to the fourth?
Paimon: is it the rule of threes?
Lumine: This sounds like the rule of threes.
Amber: What are you guys even saying?
Kaeya (snickering): Pffft... finally, my kind of crowd.
Amber: No. Stop Do not.

• So with that out of the way, Lisa and Kaeya join the party and embark on the quest to the Three Temples--I mean, Three of the Four Temples.
• No, Paimon, Lumine, and Kaeya will NOT stop joking about it.

Lumine: But if the fourth temple is off-limits, shouldn't you just call it the three temples?
Lisa: Well, you see, it's because--
Paimon: Yeah! If you keep saying it's dangerous but it still exists, then people who would want to visit the Temples would try to find the fourth anyway! Because completionism!
Kaeya: Ah, see, I brought up that same point as well, but the Acting Grandmaster said otherwise.
Amber: Listen, we're visiting THREE TEMPLES. Okay? Just three! No more!
Paimon: No four.
Lumine: What a bore.
Kaeya: Such a chore.
Amber: And no rhyming games!
Kaeya: What a...
Paimon, Lumine, and Kaeya: Shame?
Lisa (sighs): A long errand this will be, won't it, Amber?
Amber: You're telling me...

• I'm not going to go over the stupid Temples, okay? Like. Literally no one remembers them. I'm skipping them. Shush. This is my fic, I do what I want.
• Most you'll get is tidbits of what happens in each one.

• First up we have the Temple of the Falcon, where we see Amber in action. And, um...

Amber: Oh no, Hilichurls!
Lisa: Quickly, we must defeat them!
Kaeya: Right.
Amber: Oh, there's explosive barrels over there! Maybe if I throw Baron Bunny over--
Lumine: Oh, hey! Is that you, little guy?
Friendly Hilichurl (from before): Tomo!
Kaeya, Lisa, and Amber: ...
All three: What?
Lumine: Sorry for intruding. Were you guys stationed here too?
Friendly Hilichurl: Dada. Dala si?
Lumine: Oh, some friends of mine. Hey, listen, do you know where some sort of... draconic power is?
Friendly Hilichurl: Da! Zido, zido!
Paimon: Wow, Lumine, your Hilichurlian is really helpful!
Lumine: I know, right? Kinda glad about that.
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya: S... she speaks...
Amber: Yup.
Lisa: And she negotiated with...
Amber: Mhm.
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya: That's... a new one...

• --yeah, so I lied. Remember how Lumine communicated with the Hilichurls earlier? Yeah, it makes things significantly easier for them.

• They take out a Dragon's Breath, move onto the next Temple. Here, Lumine learns about Visions... and the group also tries to avoid every single sexual innuendo Lisa makes.

Lisa: So as you can see, when enemies are Wet, I can easily handle them via chain lightning, as they become electro-charged.
Lumine: ...
Paimon: ...
Lia: The electrical discharge caused by friction is only a little less shocking than love at first sight.
Lumine, covering Paimon's ears: Paimon, you're too young to hear this.
Paimon, covering her eyes: Paimon is too Paimon to see this.
Kaeya: Lisa, maybe cut down on the adult erotica you read?
Amber: KAEYA!
Kaeya, covering Lumine's ears: What? Just sayin'. Not in front of the children.
Lumine: I AM 5'2", THAT IS LIKE AVERAGE HEIGHT FOR A FEMALE ADULT!
Kaeya: Sure, kiddo.
Lumine, squirming: HANDS OFF, HANDS OFF--!

• Lisa also gets a new weapon here, but that's neither really here or there. I'm not gonna mention much about weapons, guys, unless the character is like super important.

• Anyway, two out of the four three temples left! Kaeya's turn! And. Um. Well.

Kaeya: Luckily, the Hilichurls weren't so much as a problem this time...
Kaeya, turning to Lumine, swinging around his new sword he just got cuz he wants to look like a badass: So. You said they were stationed here?
Lumine: Yup. That's what they told me. They typically want to be as far out from humans or human-traveled locations as much as possible so they can live peacefully, but they only ever approach if stationed there.
Kaeya: Interesting... Then perhaps.
Kaeya, to the Hydro Abyss Mage behind him: YOU were behind this!
Hydro Abyss Mage: Gohus, Chiso Vo--

• And then a gigantic ass flaming claymore bursts in, hitting the Hydro Abyss Mage.

Hydro Abyss Mage: GAH--
Kaeya: ..well, well, look who it is.
Diluc: Knights of Favonius. Always so inefficient.
Kaeya: Agree to disagree. But, since you got involved, this should be more interesti--
Amber: KAEYA, DILUC, I GET THAT YOU'RE BICKERING, BUT THE THING ISN'T GONE!
Kaeya and Diluc: ?!
Lisa, busy electrocuting it: Master Diluc, may we remind you the basics of elemental resonation and why fire doesn't work effectively on water?
Diluc: ...
Kaeya: ...

• Kaeya proceeds to freeze the Hydro Abyss Mage.

Diluc: ...
Kaeya: So. 'Inefficient', you said?
Diluc: ...tch.

• Diluc leaves, while Lumine and Paimon just stare.

Lumine: ...was he... trying to be cool?
Paimon: That was... the worst first imperssion ever.
Kaeya: Pfft. Yup. Knew I liked you two.

• So anyhow and anyway, the group returns to Mondstadt and updates Jean on everything, with Lumine and Paimon learning the Fourth Temple was actually Dvalin's. Insert an "ooooooh" here.
• Well, actually, before they update Jean, they see her arguing with Fatui diplomats on things.

Jean: That was the Fatui... from Snezhnaya.
Lumine: Actually, it's pronounced "Fah-twee".
Jean: ...what?
Lumine: You're pronouncing it like pah-tooey, like when someone expectorates.
Lumine: Anyway, continue.
Jean: Oh... kay...?
Paimon: Wait, so the Fatui wanted to kill Stormterror?
Kaeya: To be fair, the Cryo Archon and the Fatui have always coveted the other Archons' powers...
Lumine: Okay, but why?
Kaeya: Beats me.
Paimon: Aren't you a Knight? Shouldn't you know more about politics?
Kaeya: Aren't you the "number one traveling companion"? Shouldn't YOU know more about Teyvat in general?
Paimon: D'oh...

• Lisa and Jean then take a look at the red crystal, amused by it. They claim that it's impure, and surprising that Lumine isn't affected by it. Then, she is honored with the title.

Jean: Now then, Traveler... The Knights of Favonius have another favor to ask of you.
Lumine: You can just call me Lumine... no need to call me Trave--
Jean: Please accept the title of Honorary Knight... and the gratitude of the Acting Grand Master!
Lumine: Aaaaand a new title. Awesome.
Paimon: Wow, look at that, Lumine! The Honorary Knight of Favonius!
Kaeya: And now you're subject to being called Honorary Knight to the end of your days.
Lumine: Haha, very funny.

• The group disperses, going their seperate ways, only for Lumine and Paimon to ask for lodging! W-well, except, um...

Paimon: Paimon can't BELIEVE it! The Fatui took ALL THE ROOM IN THE GOETHE HOTEL?!
Lumine: And to think it's the only hotel in Mondstadt... for the supposed capital of the place, you'd think there'd be more.
Paimon: Urgh... those Fatui! And Paimon could've ordered food service.
Lumine: Ah, so YOUR main complaint was food service.
Paimon: W-well, who are we supposed to call here? Captain Eyepatch?!
Lumine: Or Noelle. Apparently she's like the maid here?
Paimon: Yeah, but... Paimon would feel bad asking her for room service...
Lumine: (laughs)
Paimon: So, Amber said that our room was... this one, right?

• Lumine and Paimon arrive at their temporary lodging--the Knights of Favonius HQ. Well, specifically, the area where the Knights who live in the HQ stay. Thankfully, there were open spaces due to a large majority of the soldiers being gone with the actual Grandmaster of the Knights.
• When Paimon and Lumine open the room, they find it's... pretty quaint. They get a decent view, a comfy bed. Though, there is a LOT of Favonius paraphernalia--from the books, to the carpet. Even the curtains and...

Lumine: Huh. Didn't know that had Favonius-branded napkins.
Paimon: And lamps.
Lumine: ...interesting...

• Lumine and Paimon take the chance to settle down, sitting back and getting comfy.

Paimon: Lumine, you sure are getting comfortable with the Teyvatan language, though! Those two months of practicing were worth it, weren't they?
Lumine: I also had to relearn how to walk again... you know, they never talk about how over five hundred years of sleeping can seriously affect your ability to move.
Paimon: Mhm! But it was all worth it in the end!

• As Lumine and Paimon lie down on their bed, Lumine looks up at the ceiling. It's getting dark out... they've been busy all day. Talk about an action-packed first day properly interacting with Teyvatan locals.

Lumine: ...it's only been a day, huh?
Paimon: ...
Paimon: Lumine?
Lumine: Hm?
Paimon: Are you... sad?

• Paimon turns around, looking up at Lumine. She's worried.

Paimon: Do you think the Anemo Archon is the one that took your brother?
Lumine: ...no. Far from it. If the statue is anything like the god that took him from me? Definitely not her.
Paimon: Do you think he'd at least know her?
Lumine: Well... I guess we could ask.
Paimon: ...Paimon's sorry.
Lumine: Hm? For what?

• Paimon grows quiet, then whimpers.

Paimon: ...if Paimon could remember, Paimon would tell you, but...

• When Lumine found Paimon, Paimon commented that there were things she did and didn't remember.

Lumine: Well, you seemed to remember some things as we made our way here, right?
Paimon: Right, but... it only happened when Paimon saw them. It was like Paimon couldn't remember until she had to remember.
Lumine: ...then, when the time comes, you'll remember. I know it.
Paimon: ...mn. Paimon hopes so.

• Paimon lets out a big yawn, and Lumine smiles gently. For the past two months, it's just been her and Paimon against the world. They've practically become inseperable. Attached to the hip.

Lumine: Tired?
Paimon: Mn...
Lumine: Go to sleep then, Paimon. It's been a long day.

• Lumine stands up, gently tucking Paimon into bed. However, Paimon calls out to Lumine.

Paimon: Lumine, what about you? Aren't you sleepy?
Lumine: I'll head to bed in a bit. Just want to do some reading practice before anything.

• Lumine stands up, grabbing some books from the shelves. With a stack of them in her arms, she makes her way to the bed, flipping through each of them vigorously.
• Clues about her brother's whereabouts. Myths about that Unknown God. An unknown location. She'd accept anything at this point.
• Book after book, page after page... the light in the room stayed on throughout the night. It was as if hours passed. And yet, nothing.
• No mentions of a blond-haired Traveler in search of his sister. No Unknown Gods with flowing white hair that claimed to be the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles. It was all simply tales of Mondstadt, or fairy tales about some oddities.
• Lumine's eyes began to droop... she was getting sleepier by the moment. Until finally, the weary girl dozed off.
• The first night without her brother. How sad... how unfortunate.

• As Lumine dozes off to sleep, she hears a voice resounding... and suddenly, her surroundings change, and she begins to dream.

Once upon a time, there was a one-eyed peacock...

"He came from a long line of creatures that lived in a forest made by their own kind. They despised the gods that lived up above them in the sky, and wished to rule themselves. For they were the superior. That was their belief."

"But the gods were angered by these creatures. How dare they overstep such boundaries set in place? How dare these creatures be greedy and take life into their own hands? In anger, the gods set the creature-made forest ablaze."

"It was Hell on earth. Many cried, many screamed. Beings of shadow emerged from the depths, consuming everyone in it's wake... it was a disaster. No... it was a Cataclysm."

"Despite it being 500 years ago, the one-eyed peacock shared his ancestor's legacy. For his bloodline had been cursed by the gods. What that curse was, he would never say. But all he knew was this: his father had sent him to hide in a beautiful kingdom of dandelions, in hopes that one day, it would perish."

"The peacock, in truth, held a dark secret. His beautiful feathers were nothing but shards of ice. In truth, his true body was afflicted, tainted by his ancestors. And he had to bear that curse for as long as he lived."

"The peacock made his way into the hearts of the Dandelion Kingdom, and soon, he was taken in by an owl and his owlet. The young peacock and owlet grew close, standing side by side, learning and growing together."

"For once, the peacock wondered, 'Is this okay?'. He asked himself, 'could I live like this? Could I spend my days in this Kingdom of Dandelions?' He was comfortable, he was happy... perhaps, he thought, this could be his new home. Perhaps his curse didn't need to be his truth."

"...but the Gods forbade it."

"These Gods weren't the same ones who cursed the peacock's bloodline, not the ones who lived in the clouds. No, they were the ones who determined everyone's fate. The Gods, in their anger, were unsatisfied with the peacock's conclusion."

"You are cursed forevermore. It is your destiny."

"To prove their point, the Gods sent down a 'curse' that tore apart the owl that took the peacock in. Ripping him apart, limb from limb, pucking his feathers until nothing was left, but a mere husk. By the time that the peacock and owlet arrived, it was too late... the owl was no longer himself."

"The owlet watched in horror, his father growing mad and losing himself. No matter what the owlet did, he could only do one last thing:"

"The peacock watched as the owlet cried, curling up against his father's corpse, his beak and talons stained with blood. It had to be him that ended his father's life."

"This was the Gods answer... the peacock understood. There was no father here, no family here. The only thing left was his curse."

"For the first time, the peacock shed his icy feathers, revealing to the blood-stained owlet the truth. In tears, the owlet grew furious--how could the peacock have lied to him? The peacock, this entire time... was he glad that his father died?"

"The owlet clawed at the peacock, and in return, the peacock fought back. It was no longer a friendly duel between brothers. It was a falling out. They fought, and fought, and fought. But what the owlet didn't see were the peacock's tears."

"Ever since that day, the peacock understood. He must never shed his feathers, for he must keep the truth hidden within. The Gods have willed it so. It is, after all, his destiny, to lie."

"He cannot live a happy life in the Dandelion Kingdom. He cannot trust anyone, not even himself."

"And so, the peacock accepted his destiny, doing as the Gods instructed, until his body froze him to the bone, and he took his final breath, cold. Alone. Just as he had been since the beginning."

• Lumine immediately bolted up out of bed, her head pounding, ears ringing. What was that dream...? No, really, what WAS that dream?
• She looked at Paimon, who was sleeping soundly next to her. A dream about a peacock, an owlet, a dead owl... it was all so vivid, so terrifying, so...
• ...sad.
• Lumine sat up in bed, taking in everything. What sort of dream was that? It was bizarre.
• As she felt around for the lamp, her hand rested on a small book. A book she most likely was about to read before falling asleep.
• The girl looked outside. Still dark out. Not only that, but her head still ached from such an odd dream--or would it be more appropriate to call it a nightmare?
• Either way, she resolved to read the book and find a glass of water. Perhaps that would make it easier on her.
• Lumine carefully crept out of the room, ensuring Paimon was fast asleep, before wandering the HQ. It was eerily dead silent in the middle of the night.
• She looked around for the kitchen, trying not to make a sound, until at last she found the tap. Setting her book aside and grabbing a glass, she poured herself a drink--

???: "Teyvatan History 101", eh?
Lumine: AH!

• Nearly spilling her water, Lumine panicked, turning around. Standing there, carrying a lamp, was none other than Kaeya Alberich, dressed down into something she could only assume was his nightwear.

Kaeya: Snooping around in the middle of the night, little miss?
Lumine: You scared the heck out of me...! Jeez...!
Kaeya: Haha, sorry. Couldn't help myself.

• As Kaeya laughed, Lumine held her hand up to her forehead before drinking her glass. Her brows were furrowed, and she seemed to be shaking a bit. At that, Kaeya decided to inquire.

Kaeya: ...hey. Couldn't sleep?

• Lumine turned, then looked up at Kaeya.

Kaeya: What? Friend can't ask a friend how she's doing?
Lumine: ...we're friends?
Kaeya: I'm hurt, Miss Honorary Knight... are you suggesting we aren't?

• Lumine laughs at that, before leaning against the counter, sipping her water. Kaeya joins her, leaning against the counter as well. The two are side by side in the quiet of the night.

Lumine: I, uh... yeah. Had a nightmare.
Kaeya: Oh? Do tell.
Lumine: I just... don't know how to make heads or tails of it?
Kaeya: Surprise me. Not only am I devilishly good-looking, but I'm also an expert at interpreting dreams.
Lumine: Pfft, that's a lie.
Kaeya: You won't know until you try.

• The two laugh a bit, until the mood seems to shift in a more... somber way.

Lumine: I, um... I guess I should start by saying I typically don't have nightmares.
Kaeya: No?
Lumine: Yeah... Aether and I always made sure that we were both at least in the same vicinity when we fell asleep so, I... guess he was like my nightmare repellent. It's... been happening for the past few months.
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya: I see.

• There's a silence in the air, only for Kaeya to try and continue the conversation.

Kaeya: So. You and your brother were close?
Lumine: Yeah. Well, are...
Lumine: ...hopefully that's the right tense.
Kaeya: Hey. I'm sure he's out there. Just gotta look for him is all. I'm sure he's trying to find you too, right?
Lumine, quietly: Yeah. I... I hope so too.

• Lumine looks into the water in her glass, before she begins to talk about her dream.

Lumine: ...the dream I had this time though was different from most of the other nightmares I've had.
Kaeya: Hm? Like what?
Lumine: In the past, it was... always about Aether leaving me. Leaving me behind, not letting me follow him, and in the end, I'd end up all alone in a vast, empty void.
Lumine: But this one was... about a one-eyed peacock.

• When that was mentioned, Kaeya's eye widened.

Kaeya: ...one-eyed... peacock?
Lumine: Mhm. Again, a really weird dream, but--
Kaeya: What happened to it?
Lumine: Huh?
Kaeya: ...t... the peacock, I mean. Did... something happen?

• Kaeya hastily tried to correct himself. Lumine couldn't tell if it was the dim lighting or not, but his eye seemed to dart around, refusing to make eye contact with her. Despite this, she continued.

Lumine: Yeah, um... so, the peacock was cursed by the Gods. Something about his bloodline being cursed by defying the creatures that lived in the clouds? It's really confusing.
Kaeya: And then?
Lumine: Well...

• Lumine recounted the story, trying to piece together what she could recall.

Lumine: ...he was accepted into the Dandelion Kingdom. Well, more like sent to infiltrate it by his father to see it's downfall or... something. And he was adopted by an owl and his son.
Kaeya: ...

• Kaeya grew unexpectedly quiet at this. It was almost uncharacteristic for him.

Lumine: ...Kaeya?
Kaeya: Continue.

• When he realized how off he sounded, he corrected himself.

Kaeya: Sorry, sorry. I, um... tired.
Lumine: O-okay...
Lumine: ...well, as time passed, the peacock came to love it in the Dandelion Kingdom, but he questioned if it was alright to stay there or if he had to do what he was "destined" to do. Then, when he hesitated, the Gods got angry. The owl that took care of the peacock went made and his owlet had to be the one to kill him. And the peacock... just watched. Like he was being told "you have to do what you were destined to do now, there is no second option".

• Kaeya's hands were shaking, though Lumine couldn't notice it. As if he was reliving a bad memory. A bad dream.

Lumine: ...the peacock decided to try and tell the owlet. I guess he felt bad and at least wanted to put all cards on the table. Shed his feathers, showed the truth and... they fought. And the peacock just... lied for the rest of his life, not questioning his destiny.
Kaeya: ...what... happened at the end of the dream? Was... that all?

• Lumine grew quiet, before whispering. Ah, so this is why he reacted this way...

Lumine: ...the peacock froze to death.

• Kaeya's face darkened. It was like he was hoping for a happier ending deep down, but he knew that it wouldn't end that way.
• A few seconds pass, before Lumine draws a conclusion.

Lumine: I don't... want to make assumptions but, I'm guessing from your reaction that...
Kaeya: ...that the peacock was me as a kid?

• Lumine looked up at Kaeya, who avoided her eyes.

Kaeya: Yeah. From a kid to my teens.
Lumine: Then... that owlet was--
Kaeya: The owl was a man named Crepus Ragvindr. And the owlet? His son... Diluc Ragvindr.
Lumine: The one who appeared at the Temple of the Wolf?
Kaeya: That's right. He and I were close once. But, like you said. I wavered. Instead of being next to him when he had to kill his dad, end Crepus' misery, I just. Watched. Accepted that this was my fate as a descendant of Khaenri'ah.

• At that, Lumine became curious.

Lumine: ...Khaenri'ah?
Kaeya: An ancient nation made by humans. All Teyvatan nations have been established and run by the Archons, except for Khaenri'ah. Celestia, the big guys up above, hated that. They... wiped out everything.
Lumine: I... I-I'm sorry, I--
Kaeya: Don't be. It was centuries ago. Nothing to do with me.
Kaeya: Or... well, you know.

• Yet another silence between them, only for Kaeya to suddenly chuckle sadly.

Kaeya: Haaah, why... why am I telling you this? Makes no sense.
Lumine: Hm?
Kaeya: I mean... think about it. We just met today, and suddenly, I'm telling you a secret that I only told one other person, and said person now hates me. I... I must've gone mad.

• Kaeya ran his fingers through his hair, continuing to smile sadly.

Kaeya: Ah... that's fine. Just one more person to despise m--
Lumine: I don't despise you.

• Kaeya froze in his place. Did... his ears decieve him?
• He turned to Lumine, in shock.

Kaeya: What... did you just...
Lumine: Why would I hate you for the sins of your father?

• The man continued to stare at Lumine, who seemed completely serious. She said it so... matter-of-factly. Was something wrong in her head?
• Surely. Surely something was wrong with her. After all, he's a sleeper agent, meant to wait there and watch as Mondstandt burned. So why? Why was she...?

Lumine: If anything, I hate the Gods.
Kaeya: ...the... the Gods?
Lumine: Mhm. The ones that said that you have to follow your destiny. It's obvious you love Mondstandt, right?

• "Obvious"? Please, what does this girl know? Only a day and she's making assumptions on his character.
• How could he love Mondstadt when he was to be there someday and watch it all crumble? It was his destiny, his God-given destiny. Written in the stars, unchangeable.

Kaeya: I... hah. I live here, obviously, so--
Lumine: But you love it's people.
Kaeya: ...
Lumine: I don't know why I got that dream, or why it was so close to your truth. But... what I do know is that every time I saw that peacock, I didn't feel angry. I felt... sad.
Lumine: His dad abandoned him to make him fulfill revenge for something that he wasn't involved in, he found a family that was immediately ripped away because he wasn't following his destiny, and he just decides that he has to lie all the time until the day he ends up dying.
Lumine: That's such a lonely existence... I couldn't hate a poor creature like that.
Lumine: I couldn't hate you like that.

• She looks up at Kaeya innocently. Something within Kaeya stirs--it's like she's staring straight into his soul, dissecting everything about him. As she continues to speak, he can't deny her. Like she speaks the truth.

Lumine: If that dream is your reality, then I can't be mad at you. Instead, I'd just be sad. Sad that you wanted to try and be your own person but instead felt like you had to live up to what someone in your past did. That's all, really.
Lumine: ...in a way, the Gods never really gave you a chance to grieve at all. Because 'destiny' was more important than you were to them.
Lumine: At least, that's just what I'm th--

• As Lumine looks up, a strange sight is before her. Kaeya is paralyzed, staring at the ground... and for a moment, she swears she could see something trailing down his cheeks.
• A teardrop. A small, tiny teardrop.
• Kaeya had lost everything. He didn't want to admit that, but he did. There was nothing for him.
• His birth father left him to carry his ancestors' burden. His foster father died in front of his eyes. His best friend, brother, despised him. All the while, he lost the ability to feel like "himself".
• He's a liar. A hollow, empty liar.
• And instead of falling for his bluff, Lumine, this random stranger from who knows where, shattered that bluff on day one.
• Impressive. Scarily impressive. To the point that Kaeya actually felt terrified.

Kaeya: ...hah. Wow. Are... a-are you a therapist? You really should try getting into that. You're, um. You're a very good listene--

• Immediately, Lumine sets down her water and hugs Kaeya tightly. She's a lot shorter than him, so her head barely reaches up to his chest, but... for some reason, it's not cold. It's... warm.
• Is this a hug?
• What kind of hug is it?
• A hug of passion and desire?
• No. No, Kaeya can tell it isn't... it's too different from that.
• A genuine hug from someone that's worried?
• ...there's no way it could be that, could it?

Lumine: ...you can grieve now.
Kaeya: ...
Lumine: ...it's long overdue by now, isn't it? I won't get mad at you, so...
Lumine: ...I lost something too. We can both grieve together.

• ...this girl was something else. That much, Kaeya understood.
• His hands twitched, not knowing what to do, only to loosely reciprocate the hug. Suddenly, his head moved lower, resting atop hers...
• ...and tears began to flow.
• He choked it back as best he could--oh, how hard he tried. He clenched his teeth, his fists tightening, but he couldn't.
• Was this his true feelings? He didn't know. He thought he repressed it a long, long time ago.
• But for some reason, Lumine simply saying that she would grieve with him... felt comforting.

Kaeya: ...haha. F-fuck... this is... the worst first impression I've ever made on someone.
Lumine, also tearing up: Don't worry. I won't tell. It'll be our little secret.

• The two continue to hug, tears flowing. Yet, it felt... freeing. Rejuvenating.
• As he wept, as his soul began to thaw, Kaeya asked one question to Lumine. As if seeking this answer his entire life.

Kaeya: Hey, kid?
Lumine: Hm?
Kaeya: If... if I said I don't want to see Mondstadt suffer... is that okay?

• When she heard that question, Lumine squeezed him tighter, nodding.

Lumine: Yes. It has always been okay since the very start.

• Someone had listened to him. Someone had listened to his truth... and, for once, someone told him... it was all okay.
• Was that all he wished for? A gentle voice to tell him he could do as he wished, feel as he wished?
• Was all he wanted an affirmation that... perhaps he could have happiness?
• Maybe. Maybe that was all he wanted ever since he was abandoned those years ago. Ever since he was a kid.
• And now, finally, someone found him trapped in the ice and helped him break free.
• It was almost as if he was reborn anew...

• As their tears dried, Kaeya and Lumine took the time to get some fresh air outside of the headquarters. They began to chat over mundane things to ease themselves of the pain. Perhaps it was the stars in the sky, or maybe about some passing cat. Whatever it was, they were at peace.
• Then, Kaeya brought up a question.

Kaeya: So. You said you were grieving too. You... were talking about your brother, right?
Lumine: Mn. I... don't feel the same without him, so.
Kaeya: Right, right. Gotcha.

• For a few seconds, there was yet another silence. But then, Kaeya began to speak once more.

Kaeya: ...Diluc was like my brother too.
Lumine: Really?
Kaeya: Yup. My best friend, my brother-in-arms... but I, um...
Kaeya, looking down: I guess I just didn't get the chance to grieve that fact that we couldn't go back to that after he found out the truth.
Lumine: ...hey, I'm sure that when the time comes, you could potentially go back to that. Right?
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya: Pfft. Optimistic, aren't you?
Lumine: Haha, I try.

• The two chuckle, before looking up at the stars in the night sky. The way they twinkle, the way the clouds roll through the dark indigo hue...

Kaeya: ...what if we try and fill the brother-shaped gap we both have?
Lumine: Hm?

• Lumine looks up, interested at Kaeya's query. Noticing her puzzled look, he laughs and reiterates.

Kaeya: I mean... you're missing a brother. I'm also just realizing I'm missing a brother. Why don't we both miss a brother together? A pair of siblings without their sibling.

• The girl stares at him, then looks down, humming to herself with a smile on her face.

Lumine: So... it's like you'd be my brother and I'd be your sister?
Kaeya: Well, if you'll have me. Just know though that, since you know the truth now, I'm not going to go easy on you.
Lumine: Haha, wouldn't dream of it.

• Right as she says that, she then gets another idea. Her voice has a hint of sincerity to it, a soft look in her eyes.

Lumine: And if you ever go back on your word about "wanting to keep Mondstadt safe", I'll be there personally to punch you back to reality.

• Kaeya's stunned at this. To think, instead of being hated, instead, she says she'd be there personally to ensure it wouldn't happen... what an interesting girl.
• His lips curl into a smile, and he holds out his hand in front of Lumine.

Kaeya: Sounds like a deal then, little miss Honorary Knight.

• Lumine stares at the hand, then up at Kaeya, only to return the smile, firmly shaking his hand.

Lumine: It's my pleasure, Captain Eyepatch.
Kaeya: Captain Eyepatch?
Lumine: It's the ugly nickname Paimon gave you.
Kaeya: Hm... Captain Eyepatch. Hey, maybe I should make that my new working title now that I have no cavalry to captain.
Lumine: That... (laughs) that was terrible.
Kaeya: You laughed.
Lumine: I laughed because it was bad.
Kaeya: Aww, come on. Admit it.
Lumine: Hahaha!

• Their laughter echoed throughout the night. The stars in the night sky shone brightly, the moon watching over the City of Mondstadt. That day, an unbreakable bond was forged.
• ...and that day, the wheels of fate began to turn.
• Kaeya has now joined Lumine's team.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 1.0.2: Tone Deaf in Every Concievable Way

• It's a beautiful day in Mondstadt. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining...
• And when Paimon gets up, she is... pleasantly surprised to see Kaeya and Lumine are actually pretty buddy-buddy

Lumine: Okay, but like, really. What's ACTUALLY under your eyepatch?
Kaeya: Why, Honorary Knight, I'd tell you, but I'm afraid if I did, you'd die instantly.
Lumine: Do you have an eyepatch underneath it? You know, double coating?
Kaeya: Hah, "double coating"? Why would I...
Kaeya: ...hm, actually, that might be a good idea. Why don't I take my eyepatch off right now and add another eyepatch underneath?
Lumine: If you're not gonna tell me, then don't dangle it in front of my eyes!
Paimon: ...
Paimon: ...Paimon's going back to sleep. She's seeing things.

• After Paimon sleeps in for about five minutes, she floats back out only to see that... nope, she indeed wasn't seeing things. Lumine and Kaeya have become close friends.

Paimon: H-how... what... WHAT HAPPENED WHILE PAIMON WAS ASLEEP?!
Paimon: (le gasp) KAEYA, WHAT DID YOU DO TO LUMINE?! YOU CAN'T HAVE HER!
Lumine: Ew, what?
Kaeya: (fake hurls) Gross. No.
Paimon: ...what?

• After some clarification from the two of them, Paimon just floats there in wonder.

Paimon: So that's what happened?
Lumine: Mhm. We just ended up becoming best friends overnight! Similar experiences.
Lumine: So don't worry about it, okay, Paimon? He's like... oh, he's like you and me!
Kaeya: Except I can't be turned into Emergency Food.
Paimon: Watch your attitude, Captain Eyepatch!
Kaeya: Emergency Food.
Paimon: Captain Eyepatch!!!
Lumine: Okay, that's enough Ugly Nickname bickering for now!

• The three decide to get some breakfast out in the town, Paimon recently craving some Sweet Madame... even though, like, that's not. Really a breakfast food. Paimon, that's really not healthy--
• Except, right as they step out the HQ, they spot an odd boy. A boy wearing green clothes, akin to a bard.

Paimon: Hey... doesn't that guy look familiar to you?
Lumine: Hm? Who?
Kaeya: That bard a friend of yours?

• The bard looks up at the three, then smiles, before running off.

Kaeya: ...he ran as soon as he saw you.
Lumine: Yeah, that's we...
Lumine, suddenly remembering: ...!
Lumine and Paimon: THE DRAGON!
Kaeya: The what--
Lumine: We have to go after him!
Kaeya: Wait, wh--
Paimon: NO QUESTIONS! MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!
Kaeya, chuckling: Whoa, okay, okay! Don't push!

• Recognizing the bard as the one they saw when they found the tainted gem in the forest, Lumine and Paimon pursue him through the streets of Mondstadt, Kaeya following closely behind (albeit a little confused of the predicament)

Lumine: STOP RUNNING! WE JUST WANNA TALK!
Venti: (disappears around the corner)
Paimon: Where did he go?
Kaeya: ...aaaaand there he is.
Lumine and Paimon: Huh?
Kaeya, pointing to the rooftop: Up there.
Paimon: What the--
Lumine: How did...?
Venti: Huh? Whoops. Guess I've been caught again~ Hehe.
Paimon: HEY, GET DOWN HERE! WE NEED ANSWERS!
Venti: Then ya better catch me!

• Venti continues to run off, and after a few minutes of a wild goose chase, the group ends up in front of the Statue of Barbatos. Lumine and Paimon are winded, but Kaeya is over here, doing alright himself.

Lumine (panting): How... are you... not tired?
Kaeya: Morning jogs do great for the stamina. Also, having a Cryo Vision makes for a great self-cooling system.
Paimon (panting): P-Paimon... wants that... t-too...

• As the group catches their breath, they see Venti strumming a lyre, singing a song about "Stormterror".

"What is to be sung transpired in days of yore,
When the divine archons still walked the earth.
A dragon cast his curious gaze on the world below
As he parted from the heavens that gave his birth.
The dragon sought truth amongst common folk,
But mortal trifles only fogged his mind.
The windborne bard strummed his strings dolce
And the Holy Lyre answered his questions kind.
The dragon was but a child full of wonder,
And soared the heavens free from care.
The bard's songs invited him to sing along,
For he yearned to let all perceive him fair.
Enchanting legends the bard and dragon were,
But the tides of despair soon engulfed the land;
The lion fang perished and the falcon flag slept.
As a vile dragon approached Mondstadt in lone stand,
Over the Cathedral loomed death and his friends.
Of the people's agony the bard soon sang.
The soaring dragon heeded his grave calls,
And amidst the windstorms a brutal war sprang.
Blood of venom sent the sky dragon into slumber,
Only to awake to be expelled in abhor.
"Why do people in this age loathe me so?"
But the Holy Lyre replied no more.
Wrath and woe, vigor and venom,
Poured from the dragon's bitter eyes.
The dragon's curse sprawled in silence,
But the Lyre could no longer soothe his cries."

• The trio listens carefully to Venti's song, and as the crowd claps before disbursing, Kaeya begins to clap, followed quickly by Lumine, and a then slightly confused Paimon, who was a little slow on the uptake

Kaeya: Bravo, Sir Bard. Bravo, I say. What a voice that was. A brilliant song indeed!
Paimon: B-but that wasn't a song, he was just speaking!
Paimon: Do you think he's just hiding the fact that he's Tone Deaf?
Lumine: Paimon...
Paimon: What?! Don't bards sing? He was just talking!
Kaeya: Poetry, Paimon. It's poetry.
Paimon: Then say it's a poem, not a song!
Venti: (chuckles) So then. It seems three mysterious figures have decided to present themselves.
Venti: Now, I recognize one of you as a Knight of Favonius...
Kaeya, smirking: Guilty as charged.
Venti: But you two...

• Venti snaps his fingers in realization

Venti: Oh, that's right! You two are the ones that scared Dvalin away!
Kaeya: "Scared Dvalin away"?

• Venti looks at Kaeya. For some reason, something feels off to Venti, but he can't exactly put his finger on it... was Kaeya supposed to be present for this conversation? Rather, should he try shooing Kaeya away?
• As he's about to do so, however, Lumine interjects.

Lumine: We met him in the forest. We saw him interacting with the dragon, the one everyone calls "Stormterror"?
Kaeya: Ah. Where you said you got that crystal, right?
Venti: ...hm.

• Venti muses, slightly taken aback. Kaeya and Lumine were awfully close, to the point it felt a bit odd... and yet, part of Venti also felt it was right.
• Some voice in his head told him to take Paimon and Lumine to a place where Kaeya couldn't hear, and yet, another told him that Kaeya was just as important.
• Something was wrong. Something nagged at him, saying Kaeya wasn't supposed to be present for this conversation. But seeing how Lumine and Paimon interacted with him, he felt it too much of a hassle to bother. So, instead, he decided to include the Cryo User in on the issue.

Venti: Yes. Indeed, we met before! You know, I was going to deal with it before you two decided to drop in.
Lumine: S-Sorry... We really didn't mean to.
Paimon: Wait, wait, wait. Hold on a second...
Paimon: ...who even ARE you anyway?
Venti: Why me? But of course, let me introduce myself!

• Venti twirls around, making the most extravagant introduction for himself.

Venti: I am Venti the Bard, three-time winner of the "Most Popular Bard of Mondstadt", to be precise!

• Lumine clapped as Venti finished, only for Paimon to whisper to Kaeya.

Paimon: Um... do you know him?

• Kaeya dug deep into the depths of his mind. And yet, somehow, he couldn't seem to remember the name 'Venti'. The most vivid memories he had were those of meeting Lumine during the Stormterror attack.
• The man shook his head in response.

Kaeya: If I did, I would've told you by now.
Paimon: Huh...
Lumine: Oh, since you recognize us, we found this where Stormterror... er, Dvalin, was.
Venti: Oh-ho?

• Lumine summons the crystal in front of her, and yet, instead of being dyed bloodred, it changed into a beautiful sapphire.

Lumine: H-huh?
Kaeya: Well, color me impressed, Traveler. Literally. You changed the color of a crystal just like that.
Lumine: I... I didn't do anything though.
Venti: Hm. So, you were able to purify it...

• Those crystals were, in truth, Dvalin's grief, his pain, his anguish. All because of what he was suffering through.

Venti: Tell you what? I have yet another Teardrop Crystal.
Lumine: They're tears?
Paimon: Paimon didn't know Dragons could cry...
Kaeya: Can reptiles cry?
Venti: Many reptiles can cry, as it's a normal healthy function!
Venti: ...(coughs) Wait, that's not the point. And besides, Dvalin is a very intelligent lifeform that can't be fit into the reptile category.
Lumine: Yeah, dragons seem more related to chickens than anything.
Paimon: Whoa, chickens?
Venti: Hm, a Sweet Madame does sound nice about n--
Venti, shaking his head: Wait, we keep going off topic!
Kaeya: Well, to be fair, you also join us in going off topic.

• Venti's quite amused with this group. He chuckles, indulging in them

Venti: I've never quite met any Travelers like you. As for the Knight, I've never conversed with one such as yourself... perhaps, if you could help me purify this Teardrop, you could also help me in curing Dvalin of his affliction.
Lumine: Affliction?
Venti: Upupup! You scratch my back, I scratch yours.
Paimon: That seems more like a "we scratch your back, we continue to scratch yours"...
Venti, holding out the crystal and smiling: Just help a poor bard out, yeah?

• Lumine does as asked, immediately purifying the Teardrop. Kaeya and Paimon watch closely, and at that, Venti's smile widens.

Venti: So. You really do have wonderful abilities... someone like you is going to end up getting written into a bard's poem someday.
Venti, dramatically: Oh, a hero so bright, should he stand in the light! Though stand in the shade, and you'll be met by a blade--
Lumine: I'm a "her", actually...

• Venti halts in his place, before correcting himself. Odd. Why'd his mouth go against him?

Venti: Pardon me, madame. A heroine so bright, should she stand in the light!
Paimon: Yeah, that's better! Lumine, the heroine that stands in the light!
Kaeya: She who will never let the darkness taint her purest heart.
Lumine: Aww, guys, come on. You're making me blush!

• The group breaks into small laughter, before Venti continues.

Venti: Anyhow, we do have matters to discuss... since you graciously assisted me, we truly must chat further on this matter!
Venti: For there is, in fact, one special item that could help assist us in purifying Dvalin.
Venti: Though, I am a bit afraid that you may not be fit to handle the task...
Kaeya: Pardon us, Sir Bard, but she just so happens to be the Honorary Knight of Mondstadt. And if that doesn't suffice, I, as Cavalry Captain, can also assist. Surely, we're up to the task.
Paimon: Uh-huh! Super qualified! No, extremely qualified!
Venti: Hm...

• Venti looks around, before smiling

Venti: We musn't talk here, however. We must remain out of the sight of the public eye.
Paimon: But. But we were just--
Venti: Hush now, little one. Don't question it! Follow me.

• Venti begins to walk off

Paimon: Wait, where are you going?
Venti: Simple. To meet an old friend of mine at Windrise.

• He continues to walk, the group behind him pondering. Something flickers in Kaeya's mind.

Kaeya: ...ah. He might want to meet at the tree. Popular meeting place for Windrise.
Lumine: 'Tree'?
Kaeya: We call it the 'Symbol of Mondstadt's Hero'.
Lumine: Well... that's a handful.
Paimon: Paimon'll say.
Kaeya: (laughs) True. But some simply call it 'Vennessa's Tree'.
Paimon: Ooh! Vennessa?

• As the group follows Venti, Kaeya explains the lore. The story of a woman named Vennessa who led a rebellion that overthrew the old corrupt Mondstadt Aristocracy and became a hero. The tree in question was said to have appeared in the exact spot where she ascended into Celestia

Lumine: But... wasn't Celestia the group that destroyed Khaenri'ah? Does... that mean you despise them, at least just a bit, Kaeya?
Kaeya: Hm...

• It was a question that intrigued Kaeya. And yet, no matter how he thought about him, his mind ran blank. He had no answers. It wasn't that he wouldn't answer--no, rather like no answer was available to him.
• But, Lumine wouldn't believe him if he said this, would he?
• He looked to the girl, who stared up at him with innocent eyes. The talk the night before had thawed his heart just a bit... he let out a sigh, deciding to tell the truth

Kaeya: ...I'm... neutral, I guess.
Paimon: How can you guess? It's your opinion!
Kaeya: Not sure. I just feel somewhat deattached from the whole thing.
Kaeya: What about you, Paimon? You seem like some 'Celestial Being'.
Paimon: Huh?

• As the topic switched to Paimon, it was Kaeya's turn to ask questions

Kaeya: So? What are your feelings on Celestia?
Paimon: U-um... it's. Well...

• His eyebrow raised, and Lumine seemed curious too. Realizing she was on the spot, Paimon began to concentrate, closing her eyes and trying to dig. But, just like Kaeya? There was nothing.
• The only vivid memories she had was the day she met Lumine... beyond that, it was all a blur. Her purpose, her knowledge, it was all circumstancial. So, she answered.

Paimon: ...Paimon doesn't know.
Kaeya: Well, how could you not know? It's your opinion.
Paimon: Hey!

• Kaeya mocked her, before Paimon answered

Paimon: Paimon can't remember a lot about her past. She just remembers meeting Lumine. But... she doesn't know why she's here.

• She lets out a loud sigh

Paimon: Paimon feels like she could help Lumine more if only she knew what she was supposed to be doing.

• Kaeya fell silent at that, musing over it. Seems he and Paimon had quite a bit in common. He then turned the topic onto Lumine.

Kaeya: What about you, Miss Honorary Knight? What did you do before you arrived in Teyvat?
Lumine: Oh, well, me and my brother were Travelers that visited many places.
Kaeya: Such as?
Lumine: Well... many places, really. And...

• ...as much as she wanted to tell stories, part of her mind was also blank. She visited many worlds before, this she knew. But, if she tried to go into detail, she couldn't. Words failed her.

Kaeya: Well, seeing as you traveled a lot, how about... where you came from?
Lumine: Ah... where I... came from?

• Blank.
• Absolutely nothing.
• Just as Paimon said, Lumine didn't know where she came from.
• ...did she have parents? Was it just her and her brother?
• She felt an odd pang in her head

Paimon: Lumine, are you okay?
Kaeya: Hey, something wrong?
Lumine: Yeah, I... um...

• She wanted to vocalize her concerns. All three of them had missing chunks of their memories. It was odd to them... strange, almost. But before she could inquire more about it, Venti spoke

Venti: Hey! Three Musketeers!

• He stood in front of a Statue of the Seven that stood in front of Vennessa's Tree, waving

Venti: What's with the long faces?

• The group decided to drop the subject, heading to Venti

Kaeya: You said you wanted to visit an 'old friend of yours'?
Venti: Perhaps. Perhaps not.
Kaeya: Enigmatic, aren't you?
Venti: As are you, my one-eyed friend.

• Kaeya laughs at this, before Venti continues

Venti: So. Matters to discuss. But before I drag on, I suspect you have questions?
Paimon: Lumine. You have a question for him, don't you? About the you-know-what?
Kaeya: Hm?
Lumine: Oh, uh... right.

• Lumine decides to ask the question about the Anemo God

Lumine: So... the thing is, I lost my brother to a god. I want to know more about this land's god--the Anemo Archon.
Venti: Oh, of Barbatos? He's been gone for quite some time.
Lumine: Really?
Kaeya: I could've told you that from the start.
Lumine: Oh...
Venti: While various other archons still reside in their nations, Mondstadt's seen many a moon since they last saw their own. But, what's with the question? Is it about Dvalin?
Lumine: Um...

• Lumine looks to Paimon, then to Kaeya and Venti. As much as she wants to ask about the Unknown God, to find her brother, a part of her is more worried about Mondstadt. So, instead, she decides to ask him.

Lumine: I was just more curious about it is all. Anyway, Dvalin. What's the story here?
Venti, sighing: Dvalin... he has begun to degrade.
Lumine: Degrade...?
Venti: Yes. There has been black blood flowing through his heart, torturing him for many years. As time passed, his constitution suffered, leading him to be led astray by the lies of the Abyss Order.

• Kaeya's eyes widened at that, as did Lumine's. Lumine looked at Kaeya. He was Khaenri'an. So, he should know about this, shouldn't he?
• And yet, when he heard that, his eyes showed just the same amount of confusion as hers did. He looked at her, then shrugged. As if to say 'I never heard of this' or 'don't look at me, I don't remember trying to enrage a dragon'
• Venti noticed the odd exchange of glances between the two... wondering if it was alright to disclose this in front of a third party. But the way Kaeya reacted was odd. Unknowing, confused...
• ...and perhaps a little worried?
• Venti sensed something was different about the Knight. From what he knew, Kaeya had a history to him that forced his destiny to be one where he had to choose sides. And yet, the Knight that stood before him now? It's as if his destiny changed.
• Like the Knight already chose a side. And like he had forgotten what caused him conflict in the first place.
• Venti no longer deemed Kaeya a threat. Rather, it was as if Kaeya was no more clueless than Lumine and Paimon were. And so, he continued to speak

Venti: The Abyss Order is an organization comprised of non-human beings. They despise mankind. I don't know where they come from, but what I do know is that they hold deep hatred towards the human world.
Lumine: ...could that be, perhaps, the organization that's been stationing Hilichurls around human settlements?
Venti: ...stationing Hilichurls?
Paimon: Lumine can talk to Hilichurls! She was able to negotiate with a lot of them!

• A new revelation. It's rare for one to be fluent in speaking with Hilichurls... at that, Venti mused

Venti: Well, yes. In fact, Hilichurls mainly take orders from the Abyss Order and act as their weapons.
Kaeya: Good thing we negotiated, or we might've had more trouble.
Lumine: Maybe they'll see it as a temporary peace treaty?
Paimon: Paimon hopes so...
Venti: Now, before arriving here, I too was like Dvalin, cursed and left to waste. But now, before us stands the Symbol of Mondstadt's Hero, the place from which Mondstadt rose.

• Venti gestured to the large tree

Venti: The wind amongst the branches is good... I love the way it smells.
Venti: Being here with all of you beneath this great tree feels like when the tear was purified earlier. Like the poison's leaving my body...
Paimon: But... how did you get poisoned?
Venti: Hm. Well, someone did interrupt me when I attempted to communicate with Dvalin.

• At that, Lumine and Paimon flinch. Kaeya looks at them, amused

Venti: Because of that, not only was my attempt at helping Dvalin break his curse ultimately a failure, but I was also infected.
Kaeya: Ah. So you two did that, huh?
Lumine: I-It was an accident...
Paimon: Mhm...
Venti: Well, to make it up to me, I have a request.
Venti: Lumine. Paimon. Kaeya. Now that I feel quite rejuvenated, you shall accompany me to the Cathedral!
Kaeya: To do... what exactly?

• Venti smirks

Venti: We're getting a certain "Holy Lyre der Himmel"

• As the four head to the Cathedral, Venti explains the deal with the Lyre

Paimon: So we're gonna get the Holy Lyre so you can... sing to the dragon?
Kaeya: Hey. It's a plan.
Lumine: It's a really flimsy plan...
Venti: Aww, come on. Look me in the eyes. Do you not find me trustworthy?

• Lumine, Kaeya, and Paimon stare at Venti, each having a different response

Kaeya: I only have the one, and somehow, it still says you're not certain
Paimon: Paimon's not sure a lullaby would work on a dragon
Lumine: Somehow that look on your eyes is more worrying than comforting
Venti: Haah, you all truly are a group of likeminded people!

• The group heads into the Cathedral. As they arrive, Kaeya recognizes a figure that's standing by the front pews

Kaeya: Well, if it isn't Barbara.

• The girl turns around. As it turns out, it's the Deaconess of the Cathedral, and Jean's little sister--Barbara Pegg.

Barbara: Oh, Kaeya! Good afternoon!
Kaeya: Hey. How's the deaconess duties going?
Barbara: Oh, it's a normal day, haha. Bennett came and visited again due to his injuries, and Dahlia also had me assist him with some of the choir duties as well.
Kaeya: Ever the hardworker, eh? Just like your big sister. Bennett still in the infirmary?
Barbara: Oh, actually, he just left with Fischl and Razor.
Kaeya: Got it.

• Venti seems intrigued by this, only for Barbara to finally speak up

Barbara: O-oh! Um... you have guests?
Kaeya: Yes, in fact, we do. Meet the legendary Honorary Knight Lumine, her Travel Companion Paimon, and the Eccentric Bard Venti.
Barbara: Greetings, everyone. May the Wind Guide You.
Venti: Well, greetings, child of Mondstadt!
Paimon, copying Venti unconsciously: Greetings, child of--
Paimon: Hey, wait. What's with the fancy talk?
Venti: Ehe.
Paimon: Don't 'ehe' Paimon...
Lumine: It's nice to meet you Barbara.
Barbara: It's nice to meet you as well.
Barbara turns to Kaeya, slightly confused
Barbara: Um... Kaeya, no offense, but this is quite the big group you've gathered here. Is something the matter? Did you need to see Sister Rosaria, or--
Kaeya: (coughs) No, nothing like that.

• Lumine's eyebrow raises, looking at Paimon. Kaeya seemed to be caught off guard by that.

Kaeya: We, uh. We're actually here on Knight business.
Barbara: Knight Business?
Venti: Yes, for we need something that only the great Church of Mondstadt can provide!
Barbara: Oh, um... what may we help you with, then? As deaconess, I'll try and help you out.

• Lumine looks to Paimon, who then looks back at her. Is it just them, or does this seem too easy right now?

Venti: Well, you see, we um...
Venti: We need the Holy Lyre der Himmel.

• At that, Barbara stares in stunned silence, before looking up at Kaeya

Barbara: Um... is... he joking, or--
Kaeya: No. No, he's being very serious.
Barbara: B-but. But the Holy Lyre is a sacred artifact! We can't simply hand it out to anyone!
Barbara: No offense, Mister Bard.
Venti: None taken.
Lumine: Well, Barbara, Venti says that if he has the lyre, he could help us deal with Dvalin.
Barbara: Dvalin? You mean Stormterror?
Barbara: Mn... as much as I'd like to believe that, I'm not entirely comfortable with that fact...
Venti: Hm. Well then, I guess I have no choice...

• As the group seems to be getting nowhere, Venti decides to pull a random card out of his sleeve that... NO ONE expects

Venti: Do not be afraid, my disciples! Rejoice! For behold, the God of Anemo, Barbatos, has descended!

• At that, Lumine, Paimon, Barbara, and Kaeya stare at Venti, as he declares such a loud statement in the midst of a vast, and almost empty cathedral.
• His voice booms and echoes, while Kaeya and Lumine try to hold back their laughter, not entirely taking him seriously

Venti: Shocked, aren't you? Don't you just want to cry out and rejoice? How does it feel to finally meet the god you've been serving?

• As he finished his sentence, silence washed over the room
• Suddenly, Paimon, Lumine, and Kaeya began to burst out into laughter, while Barbara stood there, stunned
• Venti, on the other hand, stood there, watching as the three laughed

Paimon: Pffft... y-you?! Barbatos?! As in THE Anemo Archon?
Kaeya: W-what next? I'm the God of Cryo or something?
Paimon, Kaeya: (burst out into laughter)
Venti: So? What if I am?
Lumine: I... pfft... y-you...
Lumine: ...
Lumine: Wait, you're serious?

• Venti then gave the three a look. A certain smug look as if to convey his message.
• Yup. He was serious. Dead serious.

Kaeya: ...holy shit, we just made fun of Barbatos.
Paimon: U-UM. UH... SHOULD PAIMON BOW?!
Lumine: Quick, maybe if we apologize, we won't get blown away.
Venti: How is it your demeanor changes as soon as you find THAT out?!
Barbara: Y-you're...

• The group then turns to Barbara... arguably, one of Barbatos' biggest fans. Her eyes are wide, staring at Venti in wonder.
• Something in Barbara's mind echoes. Was she supposed to be here? To know this? Was... was this forbidden knowledge a mortal such as her was able to bear witness to?!
• As she sat there and pondered, her face turned a bright red, and she immediately ran to hide behind Kaeya, who was surprised

Kaeya: Whoa, you okay there, Barb?
Barbara: I... It's him! The Almighty Barbatos!
Kaeya: Yeah, we... just noticed that. You okay?
Barbara: You don't understand, Kaeya! He... he requested his sacred Lyre and I rejected him!
Paimon: Umm, Paimon doesn't think he's gonna punish you.
Lumine: Weren't you just panicking a moment ago?
Paimon: S-so were you!
Venti: Don't worry, my loyal child. I... (clears throat)
Venti, attempting to sound more regal: Do not be afraid, for I have watched over you since you were but a babe.
Lumine: That's creepy.
Paimon: Really creepy.
Kaeya: Please rephrase.
Venti (harsh whisper): Guys, I'm trying to do something here...
Venti: Ahem.
Venti: I do not blame you for your... um... ignorance?

• At that, Barbara squeaks before bowing her head, frantic

Barbara: I have been ignorant, please forgive me, Barbatos!
Venti: N-no, wait, I meant, um. Ah...

• Venti looks to the others, panicking. Clearly, this was... not going as planned

Paimon: Y'know, Paimon was a little scared of him for a bit because he said he was Barbatos, but now Paimon realizes his title doesn't match up to his person.
Kaeya: Yup... ditto on that one.
Lumine: Venti, maybe just... try acting like yourself?
Venti: Alright, alright, fine.
Venti: Barbara.
Barbara: Y-yes?!
Venti: Since I've made myself known to you, that uh... means I'm sort of in need of a favor from you.
Barbara: Yes, of course, Lord Barbatos, sir!
Venti: Just Venti is fine.
Barbara: Yes, Just Venti! I mean... V-Venti! Lord Venti?
Kaeya: Hey, calm down Barb. Deep breathes. Okay? Deep breathes.

• After a bit of panicking, Barbara inhales and exhales, finally relaxing

Barbara: O... okay. Sorry, I was just... surprised.
Barbara: We were always told Barbatos left Mondstadt to govern itself, so I never thought the day would come when he'd return.
Barbara: Does this mean...?
Venti: Mondstadt is in danger, and I have to step in before it's too late. The one you call Stormterror. I must quell his fury using the Holy Lyre.
Venti: And, as deaconess of this church, it's in your possession, correct?
Barbara: Y-yes. It is. In the vault, specifically. We don't want anyone stealing it, so...
Venti: Perfect! Then we sneak in at dawn!
Lumine: Sneak in?
Kaeya: Hm. A stealth mission. I'm game.
Paimon: Ooh, Paimon wants to wear a disguise!
Barbara: O-or...!

• The group turns to Barbara, who seems to have a different suggestion

Barbara: U-um... I can just... give it to you?

• The group stares at Barbara, astonished

Kaeya: ...you can do that?
Barbara: Well, I am the deaconess. And since Kaeya is the Cavalry Captain of the Knights, he's about authorized to receive it, so...
Barbara: ...there... should be no problem?

• The group looked at each other, then at Barbara, then back at each other
• Finally, Venti clapped his hands together, breaking the silence

Venti: Well, that sounds like an amazing plan!
Lumine: Yeah, it'd probably be best we... don't immediately attempt to commit a crime.
Kaeya: Aw, no fun.
Paimon: Um, aren't you a Knight?
Kaeya: Sure. But a FUN Knight.
Lumine: (chuckling)
Barbara: Ah, this way then. I'll guide you to the Lyre. It's quite a ways down--we needed to make sure it was in a safe location.
Lumine: By all means then, lead the way, Miss Barbara.
Barbara: O-oh, um, Barbara is fine, Miss Honorary Knight.
Lumine: Then you can just call me Lumine. Nice to have you with us! We could always use a few more helping hands.
Barbara: Ah... j-join?

• Barbara seemed hesitant as soon as "joining" the group was mentioned.

Barbara: I'm, um. Not entirely sure about joining. I'm more of a healer than anything, so I fear the only thing I can really assist with is helping you retrieve the Lyre--
Kaeya: Now, Barb, what did we say about putting yourself down?
Barbara: H-huh?

• The way Kaeya and Barbara interacted was that of familiarty, something that intrigued Paimon and Lumine.

Paimon: She does this often?
Kaeya: Mhm. Because she always keeps it in her mind to compare herself to Jean.
Barbara: I-I do not--
Kaeya: In fact, last time I saw you, you were trying your best to see if you reached your big sister's height.
Barbara: K-Kaeya, not in front of Barbatos!
Venti: Oh, he didn't need to tell me that. I'm the Anemo Archon--I saw it all.
Barbara: E-Eep!
Lumine: Wait... Jean is Barbara's big sister?

• At the mention of Barbara's family ties, her face grows red.

Kaeya: Jean and Barb's parents divorced. Jean went with the mom, Barb went with the dad.
Lumine: Oh...
Paimon: No wonder you seemed familiar! You both look alike!
Barbara: I... I really don't think so, but thank you!

• Barbara, though slightly taken aback by the sudden onslaught of friendliness, lead the group to the Cathedral's lower levels.

Barbara: It's down these flights of stairs.

• As they all look down, they see various levels and entranceways. It's a long way down...

Barbara: The Holy Lyre's stored at the very bottom, because of it's status as a Holy Relic more than anything.
Venti: Alright, Paimon. Time to fly on down!
Paimon: Hey, aren't you the Anemo Archon? You fly down!

• As the two banter, Lumine chuckles with Kaeya and Barbara already heading down. She turns to the others slowly trailing behind.

Lumine: Come on, you two. We go as a group, okay?
Paimon: He started it!
Venti: Mleh! (sticks out his tongue)
Paimon: Bleeeegh! (does the same)

• As the group made their way through the halls of the Cathedral's lower levels, they were only accompanied by the echoes of their footsteps...
• However, as time passed, a voice echoed in Lumine's ears. She thought she heard whispers...

"Once upon a time, there was a young kitten..."

• Frantically, Lumine turned around. But no one was behind her.

Paimon: Lumine? Are you okay?
Lumine: U-um...

• Lumine glanced around once more. Nothing. Just the lighting of the lamps, the shadows of those who walked past, and the echoes of the corridors.

Lumine: Yeah. Just... thought I heard something.

• But Lumine walked behind the group at a somewhat reasonable distance, wondering what she just heard. Was it yet another vision? Just like the one from the night before?
• Unsure, she let herself trail behind. And suddenly, the voice once more echoed in her head... and the shadows cast on the walls began to tell a story, puppets of shadow enacting a scene like a play.

"Once upon a time, there was a young kitten, her fur as white as snow."

"She was fragile, yet retained a pure heart. This kitten was given the gift of a beautiful chalice--a chalice that could heal whomever she so pleased."

"The kitten was beloved by those who surrounded her, to the point where her deeds as a healer were renowned throughout the Dandelion Kingdom. 'Twas not just her chalice, but her lovely voice. Many were entranced by her."

"But deep inside, the kitten had a wish. Each time she had peered into the chalice, she wished for one thing, and one thing only:"

"'Oh, how I long to be like my eldest sister, the fierce and mighty lioness that protects our Kingdom. What I would give to be like her.'"

"Her eldest sister, the pride and joy of her family, was kind and noble. She did many a good deed for all creatures of the Dandelion Kingdom, whether it be embarking on adventures or protecting the weak."

"Once, the kitten had wanted to surpass that lioness. But now, all she wanted was to be her equal."

"One day, the kitten looked into her chalice. What she saw reflected in it was herself... a timid, meek kitten. It was there that she began to question..."

"'...is a song and my chalice the only qualities I bring to the table?' she mewed. 'If I want to spread hope, just as my sister does... perhaps I could make more of a difference.'"

"The little kitten looked out to view the world beyond the Dandelion Kingdom. How vast it was, how wonderful. Kingdoms made of Rock, Islands engulfed in Lighting, entire Forests, Underwater Kingdoms, Blazing Villages, Winter Wonderlands..."

"'Maybe', she thought, 'just maybe, I could use this chalice and embark on a journey. I want to be of help not just to my kingdom, but to many other kingdoms as well!'"

"But as she remarked that, the Gods above forbade her."

"The kitten was meant to remain in the Dandelion Kingdom. Such was her destiny. After all, she is nothing more than a meek, little kitten. When the kitten peered into her chalice, it was suddenly dyed a blood red..."

"'If you dare to leave your Kingdom, the only liquid that shall remain within this cup is thy blood. You are weak, you are frail, and you will never survive. Your destiny is not in the world outside. You will remain here for all of time, where you shall survive.'"

"The kitten quivered at that thought... perhaps the Gods were right. It was safer where she was. For she was just a healer, nothing more, nothing less."

"Better to survive for the sake of others. That was what the Gods had intended for her."

"And so, the little kitten lived the remainder of her life within the walls of the Dandelion Kingdom. Though her desire to see the world beyond and heal many with her magic chalice remained, each time it appeared, she would crush it to bits. The kitten would remain, never moving, treading the waters of regret she waded in until the day it consumed her--until the day she drowned."

"This is as the Gods intended it."

• As the fairy tale finished, the shadow play dissipated, as if swallowed by the light. There was no trace that such a phenomena ever occurred--only the memory that lingered in Lumine's mind.
• It was yet another story. A story about Gods forbidding a creature to do as they wished. And in the end, that creature passed, their wishes unfulfilled.
• Lumine looked to Barbara, who was walking in front with Kaeya, Venti, and Paimon. Was this story... perhaps about her?
• She kept her lips shut, however. It'd be best if it was discussed under less dire circumstances.
• However, Lumine kept that small fable in her heart. Whoever was sending her those stories had a reason... perhaps it was a sign. She had no right to question them, however. Just the right to accept it and act on it.

• At long last, the group reached the area where the Holy Lyre was being held. However, Lumine was still in a daze--something Paimon was immediately aware of.

Paimon: We're here! Finally! The Holy Lyre, the key to solving all our problems, is right here! We did it, Lumine!
Paimon: ...Lumine?

• Paimon turned around, Lumine glancing at Barbara.

Paimon: Lumine? Is something wrong?
Lumine: Huh? Oh, yeah. I'm... I'm fine.

• The tale of the little kitten with a magic chalice remained in her thoughts, but she brushed it aside. They needed to take care of Dvalin's suffering.

Barbara: It's been safely stored here for quite some time, though it may be covered in a bit of dust. Cleaning it is just as forbidden as it is taking it unless under dire circumstances.
Venti: Huh. Remind me to put one of the apples I ate up for auction.
Barbara: Huh?
Venti: What? Who WOULDN'T want an apple blessed by the Almighty Barbatos?
Kaeya: That was somehow the worst idea to come out of your mouth this entire day.
Venti: Hey, if you promote the sale, I'll split the profits 70/30.
Kaeya: 50/50. Can't pull a fast one on me.
Venti: 60/40, final offer.
Kaeya: Offer denied. Pleasure avoiding business with you.
Paimon: Ugh, can we just get the Lyre already and stop talking about Venti's weird apple investment plan?!

• The group let out a few chuckles, Barbara gently approaching the door.

Barbara: Okay. It should be right...

• As she opened it, however, someone else was there. An Electro Cicin Mage, holding the Lyre.

Barbara: H-Here?!
Paimon: What the--?!

• As the Electro Cicin mage grabs the Lyre, Kaeya and Lumine instinctively rush forward. However, she simply waves before disappearing into thin air. The group begins to panic--this... this is not good. Like, at all.

Barbara: The... The Holy Lyre der Himmel is...

• Barbara slumps on the ground, in complete and utter disbelief

Barbara: It... it was stolen?!
Paimon: Were we being followed?!
Kaeya: No, I know for a fact we weren't. There wasn't anyone in my peripheral.
Venti: Your peripheral is very limited--I don't think we can rely on your testimony, Sir Knight.
Kaeya: Barbara, we WERE the only ones that were following you, right?
Barbara: Y-yes, I'm sure of it! I closed the door as we made our way in, s-so--
Lumine: Barbara, no offense, but I think the church really needs better security...
Paimon: Hey, isn't that a Knights of Favonius job?

• Everyone turns to Kaeya, who holds up his hands in defense

Kaeya: Hey, don't look at me. Majority of our troops were taken by our actual Grandmaster and Acting Grandmaster Jean's the one that decides placement, not me.
Barbara: B-But... but what are we supposed to do? Should we tell the sisters, or--
Everyone: NO!
Lumine: Barbara, no offense, but if we do that, we'd be in SERIOUS trouble.
Barbara: But... but how are we supposed to...?

• As the group begins to panic, the sound of footsteps approach... it's a pair of guards

Guard 1: Hey, did you hear something just now?
Guard 2: Yeah, I think it came from over here.
Paimon: Shoot! We're cornered--
Venti: Pfft. No, we're not.
Lumine: Um... yes, we are?
Kaeya: Yeah, this is a pretty nice corner we're in, you know, with only one exit that those guards will definitely block--
Venti: Hey, don't doubt your great and mighty Lord Barbatos! Now, hang tight, got it?
Barbara: H-ha... hang tight?
Kaeya: Hold on, we're taking Barb WITH us?!
Venti: Um, yeah? She's just as much an accomplice as any of you were.
Barbara: W-wait, hold on, I'm not sure that I can just--

• Before Barbara can protest any further, however, Venti summons forth a gust of wind. The group is suddenly enveloped in it, each closing their eyes due to the force. After a few seconds, the wind settles down...

Venti: Haaah... mass transport. Works wonders.

• As Venti speaks, the wind comes to a halt, and everyone opens their eyes. It seems they've left the Cathedral.

Lumine: Did... did we just--
Barbara: --teleport?

• Venti turns around and smiles, chest puffed and chin up

Venti: But of course! I, as the Almighty Lord Barbatos, have scaled mountains before! Escaping from danger with a flick of a wrist is mere child's play to me!
Kaeya: And you just... didn't stop the Electro Cicin Mage?
Venti: ...

• The bard looks off to the side, as if ashamed

Venti: W-well, I... um. To be fair, if I knew she was there--
Paimon: You really are Tone Deaf, aren't you?!
Venti: Tone Deaf?
Paimon: Uh-huh! That's it! Paimon's gonna say it straight to your face now, and only call you Tone Deaf Bard from now on!
Kaeya: Oh, great. Look, Barbatos--you've earned an ugly nickname.
Venti: Somehow you calling me Barbatos feels more unsettling than that of Tone Deaf Bard...

• As Venti, Kaeya, and Paimon banter, Lumine looks over to Barbara. The deaconess has her eyes fixated on the church, fidgeting with her skirt, unable to remain still. There was a flash of what seemed to be worry in her eyes.

Lumine: ...hey. You okay?

• Lumine approaches her, to which Barbara flinches

Barbara: O-oh, um. H-Honorary Knight! I'm sorry, I was just... slightly caught off guard by everything.
Lumine: Lumine.
Barbara: ...huh?
Lumine: Just call me Lumine. Fancy titles like "Traveler" and "Honorary Knight" aren't exactly my thing.

• Lumine gives Barbara a warm smile, to which Barbara smiles warmly back

Barbara: Okay, then. Lumine.
Barbara: I'm sorry, I was just so...
Lumine: Surprised?
Barbara: Yes... to think my day started out as usual, only to end up meeting Lord Barbatos himself and watch as a Fatuus stole the Holy Lyre in front of our eyes...
Barbara: And now, I'm suddenly an accomplice in a crime I didn't commit.

• It's true--if they stayed there any longer, the guards would've immediately pointed fingers at Barbara, Lumine, Venti, Paimon, and Kaeya. They were lucky they escaped just in time.
• However, Barbara seemed quite shaken by everything.

Lumine: Hey, um. Sorry for roping you into this.
Barbara: Huh?
Lumine: You seem a bit... you know, terrified? I understand if you feel like you need to return to the Cathedral.
Barbara: W-wait, hold on, I wasn't thinking that at all!

• As Barbara blurted that out, she then cupped her hands over her mouth, as if she spoke on impulse. Intrigued, Lumine instigates

Lumine: You weren't?
Barbara: W-well, I...
Lumine: No need to be shy. You can tell me.

• Barbara looks at Lumine nervously, eyes shifting in every direction, unable to muster the strength to speak what was on her mind. However, eventually, she caves.

Barbara: To be honest, I feel partially guilty for the Lyre being stolen, and since Kaeya went with you, I...
Barbara, voice growing quieter: ...I was thinking of trying to join you all in fulfilling your mission...

• Lumine's eyes widen. The corners of her lips curl up slightly, only for Barbara to begin to babble

Barbara: B-But, I know I might be more of a hindrance than anything! I'm not entirely skilled at fighting--I'm more of a Healer, which is why I'm more in the church instead of doing things typical Vision Holders do like join the Knights or join the Adventurer's Guild, o-or--
Lumine: I think that'd be wonderful.

• Before Barbara could finish her ramble, Lumine interrupts. Her voice is soft, gentle...
• The deaconess looks up, astonished

Barbara: You... you wouldn't mind if...?
Lumine: Of course not. Actually, a Healer would be quite the nice addition in case anything bad happens along the way.

• Barbara is taken aback by Lumine's curt response. She's always used to those like Jean or the sisters in the church ensuring she would remain out of harms way. If she was to go alone, someone would typically follow behind. If she asked to join Jean on an outing, she would be turned down because Barbara might potentially injured.
• Even if she was a Vision Holder? She was typically never able to leave the walls of Mondstadt out of sheer fear that something might catch up to her and harm her. Others had reinforced that sentiment.
• Barbara was to remain the deaconess--as Mondstadt's idol. No room on the battlefield for that, right?

Lumine: Hm...

• Lumine recognizes that look on Barbara's face. It was the same look of contemplation that Kaeya had the night before. Perhaps the vision she saw about the cat and the chalice was noteworthy...
• ...rather, perhaps Barbara was the kitten with the chalice.

Lumine: ...for what it's worth.
Barbara: Hm?
Lumine: I do enjoy traveling.

• Barbara was slightly confused, but Lumine continued on.

Lumine: There's so many sights to see, many new places full of different things to do... it's wonderful.
Lumine: Sure, it's a little dangerous, but that's part of the fun of it.
Lumine: Though there are some that tell me it's dangerous and I might get hurt, I just respond that I'd rather live my life to the fullest than stay stagnant, regretting what I couldn't do in the world outside.

• Lumine turns to Barbara, smiling

Lumine: You're not as frail as you think, Barbara. I believe that wholeheartedly. After all, Vision Wielders get their Visions because they have the potential to change the world, right?

• Perhaps that wasn't the truth. Perhaps there was another reason, a darker reason, that Vision Wielders recieved Visions. But to Lumine, she hoped that Barbara would understand that one sentiment she wanted to make clear...

Lumine: Strength isn't just about fighting. Even you being able to heal and soothe the hearts of whoever you meet is a sign of strength. As is the will to pursue that kind of path. Okay?

• Barbara was in awe. The things Lumine said... part of her wonders if she wanted to hear that. Though they were merely words, it was as if she had been waiting a lifetime for someone to open up the doors to lands outside the walls of Mondstadt, the halls of the cathedral.
• As if those words alone allowed Barbara to be reborn
• With stars in her eyes, Barbara felt some surge of excitement, her words rushing out her mouth

Barbara: T-Then, are you saying I'm allowed to join you?

• She clasps Lumine's hands in hers, and Lumine nods eagerly

Lumine: Mhm. I didn't want to force you, but I was going to ask anyway, so--

• At that, Barbara immediately hugs Lumine. She didn't entirely understand why she did, nor the sudden reaction to Lumine's words. All she knew was that she was given confirmation, reinforcement to do as she wished.
• Perhaps that made part of her happy. Like she was free.
• Realizing what she was doing, Barbara's face suddenly begins to heat up before backing away

Barbara: I-I... I'm sorry, I was just so overcome with excitement that I--

• Lumine starts to chuckle. Barbara was like an adorable little sister.

Lumine: No, don't apologize! I completely understand.
Lumine: Though, just a reminder: if you decide to join us, we're going to have to come face to face with Stormterror Dvalin. This is a very big responsibility that we're taking on, so if you feel pressured, then--
Barbara: No, as a child of Barbatos, I will assist! I promise you!

• It was as if electricity surged through Barbara's heart, exciting her to the point where her voice begins to grow louder with resolve

Barbara: Because as a loyal devotee of Barbatos, serving him and Mondstadt is my duty!
Venti: Wow, my loyal devotee, eh?

• As Barbara finishes speaking, that off-hand comment from Venti reached her ears. She and Lumine turn around...
• ...and see Kaeya, Paimon, and Venti listening in on the conversation
• Barbara's face grows ever more crimson, slightly squealing, before hiding behind Lumine in embarassment

Barbara: H-How... how much did...?
Kaeya: Oh, all of it.
Barbara: N-no... nooo...

• Barbara whimpers, continuing to shrink into herself as Lumine sighs, letting out a helpless laugh

Lumine: Don't you all know it's rude to eavesdrop?
Paimon: Aww, but it was interesting! We couldn't help it!
Venti: And besides, my Loyal Devotee had a wish! I must hear out her request!
Barbara: (squeaks)
Lumine: Alright, alright, enough teasing Barbara. You all heard her though, right?
Kaeya: That she wants to join us?
Barbara: K-Kaeya, I know that you and my sister are close friends, but--
Kaeya: Don't worry, kid. I won't tell.

• Kaeya smiles cheekily, winking at her with his one visible eye (though no one can actually tell if he winked or if he just blinked. Hard to tell with this guy)

Kaeya: Sometimes, I think your sister's just a bit too overprotective of you. You wanna breath some fresh air, right? Feel a slight rush of adrenaline as we go and save Mondstadt?
Barbara: I... I wouldn't put it like that, b-but...

• A small, timid smile appears on Barbara's face

Barbara: ...maybe just a little bit...
Venti: Well, well, well! Seems like our little party of four has expanded into a party of five!
Venti, to Paimon, an audible smirk in his voice: Or perhaps a party of four and a half?
Paimon: Hey! Paimon's just as much a aprty member as everyone here!

• The group lets out a collective laugh

Lumine: Well then, welcome to the team, Barbara. Glad to have a healer with us.
Barbara: I'll be in your care from now on. I promise, I'll do my best!
Paimon: Aww, she's so sweet! Paimon really likes you, Barbara!
Venti: What? No nickname for her?
Paimon: Um, no? Paimon only gives nicknames to those who DESERVE nicknames!
Lumine: Do I get a nickname?
Paimon: Nope! Because Paimon likes Lumine a lot!
Lumine: Awww!
Kaeya: Wow. Favoritism. I see how it is.
Venti: Oh, woe is me. I, the Anemo Archon, being reduced to but a lowly bard that is tone deaf...
Barbara, giggling: Tone Deaf Bard? What's your nickname then, Kaeya?
Kaeya: Captain Eyepatch.
Barbara: Well, it certainly suits you.
Kaeya: Haha, part of me kind of wants to know the kind of name Paimon would give to Diluc...
Venti: Well, we can find out now.

• As Venti said that, everyone turns their attention to him, as if wondering what on Teyvat Venti meant. The bard then smiles

Venti: You guys haven't turned around, have you?
Lumine: Um... no, not... exactly, why?

• Venti swirls his index finger around in a circular motion, instructing them to look six o'clock
• As they do so, Lumine, Paimon, and Barbara are taken by surprise. However, Kaeya is the opposite

Kaeya: (sighs) Goddammit, and I wanted so badly to not get him involved in this somehow.
Lumine: Not get... who involved?
Kaeya: The owner of this place.

• Kaeya motioned to the building in front of them. It was a small pub, one bustling with various customers despite the Stormterror attack the day prior. With dull eyes and a slight groan in his voice, he sighed.

Kaeya: Angel's Share.

---

 

Chapter Text

---

CHAPTER 1.0.3: Order Up!

• Last we left off, the group was standing in front of Angel's Share, and, um... yeah, Kaeya ain't happy about that

Kaeya: Ugh... we're hiding here?
Lumine: Why? What's... what's wrong with here?
Kaeya: Remember Diluc?
Paimon: You mean the guy that didn't know that fire is put out by water?
Kaeya: Yeah, that guy. Well...

• Kaeya sighs, then gestures to the bar

Kaeya: He runs this place.
Barbara: But, don't you like drinking here, Kaeya?
Kaeya: In this case? I'd rather not involve Diluc. Barbatos knows how he'd react if he found out that--
???: Found out what?

• Just as Kaeya was about to speak, leaning against the doorframe was the man himself.
• Batman.
• ...I mean Diluc.
• I mean, Batman and Diluc are the same thing so--

Kaeya: Fuck.
Venti: Snrk. Language. There's a Paimon and a Barbara here.
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya: Scheiße.
Venti: Eh. I can work with that.
Diluc: What is this about not finding out?
Kaeya: Diluc! How's it going? I haven't seen you in forever, old friend!
Diluc: ...we just saw each other yesterday.
Kaeya: Yeah, thought you'd wanna forget yesterday's mishap. Very sad, really. You don't know elemental reactions, do ya, bud?
Diluc: Kaeya--
Kaeya: Anyway, me and my friends were just here to stop by for a drink!

• Diluc glances at the group, in pure and utter disbelief

Diluc: The Honorary Knight of the Favonius, a floating child, the Deaconess of the Favonius Cathedral, and some random bard are here to accompany you for drinks?
Lumine: Oh, um. No wine for me, thanks. I'm not exactly great at holding my liquor.
Kaeya:
Kaeya: You can drink?
Lumine: Yes, I can drink. Just not well.
Kaeya: Oh, I'm sorry. I just didn't see your ID.
Lumine: I wasn't even BORN here. Of COURSE I don't have an ID.
Paimon: Guys, not now!
Barbara: Oh dear...
Venti: Pfft...

• As this group of misfits begins to banter, Diluc sighs and holds open the door

Diluc: Just get in. Before anyone sees you.
Barbara: Before...?

• The group walks in while Diluc explains, leading them to a table that's relatively isolated from the crowd

Diluc: There was a pair of knights that appeared just recently, asking for me to report any suspicious persons that may come across the tavern. Naturally, it was a bother and not my issue, so I simply led them in the wrong direction.
Venti: Well, what a kind person you are, aren't you, Master...
Diluc: Diluc. Diluc Ragvindr. I don't believe I've introduced myself yet.
Venti: Master Diluc, then! So Kaeya says you own this amazing establishment?

• Diluc glances at Kaeya, who takes a seat next to Lumine. His eyes narrow

Diluc: ...he has... talked of me, I see.
Paimon: Mhm! Yup! Not about much, though. Just about how yo--

• Lumine covers Paimon's mouth, grabbing her and sitting Paimon down in her lap as if an infant

Lumine: Please excuse my best friend, she has trouble reading the room sometimes.
Paimon: Hey!
Lumine: Um... nice to meet you, Master Diluc. My name is Lumine, and I'm--
Diluc: The Honorary Knight. Yes, I'm aware... shame you joined the Favonius.
Kaeya: Hah. Always you and your grudge.
Diluc: ...

• Sensing the tension in the air, Barbara immediately cuts in

Barbara: U-um, Master Diluc! Hello again! It's been quite some time since we last saw each other!

• Hearing her speak, Diluc softens

Diluc: Ah, yes. Barbara. It certainly has.
Lumine: W-wait, you two know each other?
Barbara: Mondstadt is quite a small city. That and Master Diluc is quite close to--

• Diluc coughs before continuing

Diluc: Ignoring that. I'd like a reason as to why you all are running from the law. It's one thing for the bard to be running, but for those on good terms with the Knights...
Venti: Actually, I'd be quite interested to hear about Master Diluc's relationships more than anything.
Paimon, smug: Yeah! Who's Master Diluc "quite close" to?
Diluc: Keep talking and I kick you all out.
Venti and Paimon: Yessir!
Diluc: And put down that bottle you stole from behind the counter. Don't think I didn't see that.
Venti: Shoot. So close.
Kaeya: Hah.
Diluc: You too, Kaeya.
Kaeya: Agh, goddamnit.
Venti: Bless you.
Lumine: Pfft...

• Kaeya and Venti unamusedly place down the bottles they stole from the front counter

Barbara: W-well, um... we have good reason for what happened--
Diluc: For the Holy Lyre der Himmel being stolen from the church?
Barbara: ...! You... you know about it?
Diluc: The Knights, incompotent they are, already informed me. Not long after did you all show up at my door, winded and panicked, whispering about not wanting to notify me of your shenanigans.
Paimon: Shenanigans--
Diluc: So talk before I run out of patience.
Venti: And what, Barbatos tell, would happen if you do run out of pa--
Diluc: Five.
Venti: What?
Diluc: I turn you in. Four.
Venti: Pfft, you're not being serious, right--
Diluc, dead serious: Three.
Venti: Okay, okay, okay! Fine, we'll tell you!
Diluc: Thank you.
Venti: But through SONG!
Diluc and Paimon: Ugh...

• Venti gets up and begins to recant the story so far. However, Diluc gets the feeling that some parts were hastily added on--as if they were improvised. The part about Kaeya and Barbara specifically. But he didn't question it. He merely kept it in the back of his mind.

Diluc: ...so the Lyre was more or less a tool meant to bring an end to the Stormterror issue?
Venti: Basically.
Kaeya: More or less.
Barbara: That's the case, yes...
Paimon: Took ya long enough.
Lumine: Mhm.
Diluc: ...this sounds like confidential information...

• But before Diluc could complete his sentence, his eyes wandered to Barbara and Kaeya. If it was supposed to remain 'confidential', why on earth were those two dragged into it? If anything, it made more sense for Venti to simply keep the Traveler and her assistant in the loop.
• Before dismissing that thought, however, Venti spoke

Venti: Let's just say that the winds are changing.

• A certain spark was in his eyes

Venti: So, Master Diluc. What say you? Will you assist us?

• Diluc's eyes were fixated on Kaeya, who was simply looking at Lumine. The two seemed to have wandered off into their own conversation, Barbara joining in as well.
• Something was... off. If Kaeya was involved, things would immediately be different, mainly because of his ties to Khaenri'ah. And yet, Kaeya seemed just as clueless as everyone else.

Venti: You feel it too, don't you?
Diluc: ...huh?

• Diluc looked to Venti. It was as if he knew more than he was letting on.

Venti: I know. But perhaps the winds have changed directions entirely. The chances are slim, but...

• Venti looked to Lumine

Venti: ...it seems an entirely new variable's entered the equation, yes?

• Diluc remained silent, before sighing

Diluc: Alright, everyone, listen up.

• The group turned to look at Diluc

Diluc: Give me some time. I'll get into contact with some of my colleagues. Meet me after hours and we can discuss this information further.
Lumine: Just... like that?

• Diluc looks at Lumine. An odd aura was emanating from her. One of irregularity. What's more, that aura spread to the group around her... but it wasn't one that was unsettling. Just... different.
• Setting that aside, he nodded

Diluc: The information given was interesting. That, and your potential solution may alleviate any further casualties from occuring.
Diluc, passive-aggressively: ...casualties that the Knights seem to be incapable of preventing.
Kaeya: Hey. Technically, I'm here helping with this new solution. Watch your tongue, bud.

• Diluc sighs before continuing

Diluc: You are all free to leave the tavern and prepare for tonight as you wish. It is merely afternoon after all.

• Everyone in the group looks at each other, only for Barbara to speak up first

Barbara: Um... thank you, Master Diluc!
Diluc: Don't worry about it. I'll cover for you all since you're with the Knights or at least on good terms with them.
Barbara: Thank you once again. We really appreciate it! Oh, and also, Big Sister s--
Diluc, interrupting: Ahem. As I was saying.

• Paimon, Kaeya, and Lumine look to each other

Lumine: So... are him and Jean...
Kaeya: Yeah, he's just slow.
Paimon: Slow or in denial?
Diluc: I can HEAR you three.
Diluc, grumbling: Get out of here now. I won't ask again.
Paimon: Alright, alright, Mr. Poker Face!
Diluc: Poker Face?
Paimon: That's Paimon's Ugly Nickname for you! Hmph!

• Paimon floats away, Kaeya chuckling

Kaeya: I mean, it's accurate.
Lumine: (chuckles)
Diluc: That means you too, Kaeya.
Kaeya: Alright, Poker Face.
Diluc: Out.
Kaeya: Alright, alright! See ya tonight!
Barbara: Bye, Master Diluc!

• Kaeya and Barbara walk out. Lumine turns around and gently bows her head

Lumine: Thank you for covering for us. We really appreciate it.
Venti: Yup! Means a lot!

• Lumine and Venti walk out...
• ...only for Diluc to pull Venti back in by the cape

Diluc: Not you.
Venti: Aww, WHAT?!
Diluc: You're not affiliated with the Knights, making you all the more suspicious. You stay here.
Venti: Ugh... fine!

• Venti sits down, crossing his arms at the table

Venti: But I need some wine to shut me up.
Diluc: ...
Diluc: No.
Venti: Come on, just one bottle?
Diluc: Not if you can't pay.
Venti: I can pay in song?
Diluc: Not sufficient.
Venti: Come oooon!

• Leaving Venti behind in the tavern, Kaeya, Barbara, Lumine, and Paimon make their way out of Mondstadt

Kaeya: So, preparations... what should we do first?
Barbara: Well... I'm not sure entirely.
Lumine: I think my sword's okay...
Barbara: Oh, that's right, Lumine! You wield a sword like Kaeya, right?
Lumine: Mhm! It's pretty nice, too. See?

• Lumine summons the Favonia Aquila into her hands, Barbara in awe

Barbara: Wow... that looks just like Vennessa's sword! The Great Hero of Mondstadt!
Lumine: I've heard that quite a bit, actually...
Kaeya: It's quite impressive. If only the gods were kind enough to bless me with a weapon upgrade. All I have is this Prototype Rancour.
Barbara: Isn't that from Liyue?
Kaeya: Yeah... kinda questioning why a bunch of Hilichurls had a sword from Liyue, but, hey. A gift's a gift.

• Thanks to Lumine's ability to communicate with Hilichurls, they've been able to avoid major obstacles like fetch quests
• And somehow, as a result, they've been allowing the group to pick up some "treasures" that they've found. In truth, that treasure was never something they highly valued. They just found it an intriguing artifact--nothing of much use other than decoration
• But because of how friendly these humans seemed, they were happy to give them gifts

Barbara: Oh, I heard from my sister! Lumine, you can talk to Hilichurls?
Lumine: Mhm. They're a lot friendlier than most people think. Almost like they're human.
Kaeya: Like they're human, huh?

• A fuzzy thought appeared in Kaeya's mind. He couldn't make it out though.

Paimon: Something wrong, Captain Eyepatch?
Kaeya: Hm? Oh, nothing.
Kaeya, smirking: ...Emergency Food.
Paimon: Hey! What did Paimon say?!
Barbara: I've been meaning to ask where that joke came from.
Kaeya: Because if we were stranded on an island without any food, she'd be the ideal first meal.
Lumine: Hm... cooked Paimon...
Paimon: Don't just go along with him, Lumine! Aren't we best friends?!
Lumine, chuckling: I was just kidding, Paimon.
Kaeya: I wasn't. I can practically smell the aroma of fresh meat just thinking of it.
Paimon: HEY!

• As the three continued to joke, Barbara looked around, her eyes widening as her eyes were set upon one direction

Barbara: Oh, there!

• The group turned around, Barbara pointing

Barbara: Kaeya wasn't imagining it. I can smell it too--it's coming from there! Seems someone's cooking!
Lumine: Really?

• Lumine took in the aroma. She could almost feel herself getting hungrier just by the smell. Paimon too was practically following the invisible scent trail, floating towards it, mouth drooling.

Paimon: Whoa... Paimon's... super hungry... is that pork?
Lumine: H-hey, Paimon! Wait--!

• Paimon continued to float in the food's direction, leaving the remaining three to catch up to her. When they did, they ended up near the outskirts of Mondstadt City.

Kaeya: How the hell can such a strong scent come from all the way over here?
???: Hey, if you wanted a bite, you could've just ask for it!

• The trio looked around, only to find Paimon was already munching on a dish happily. Meanwhile, a girl dressed in orange and yellow had her hands full, messing around with various spices, ingredients, the like--Mao Xiangling.

Xiangling: You nearly startled me and Guoba, little one!

• Paimon greedily stuffed her cheeks while Xiangling simply laughed. By her side, an orange bear sat, feasting on some chili peppers.
• Hastily, Lumine ran up to Paimon

Lumine: Paimon, you can't just eat other people's food like that!

• She picked Paimon up and began to apologize to Xiangling

Lumine: I am... so sorry. Please forgive her--she has a really big appetite! Sometimes, it overrides her brain processes.
Paimon: HEY!
Xiangling: Haha, don't worry about it! As long as she enjoys my cooking, I couldn't be any happier! Besides, it's always mainly me and this one here to taste test. It'd be great if we could get some third opinions!
Barbara: Third opinions?
Xiangling: Mhm. The name's Xiangling! Mao Xiangling!
Kaeya: Mao Xiangling... Mao Xiangling... swear I've heard that before...

• Kaeya thinks about it before coming to a realization

Kaeya: Wait a second... could you perchance be the daughter of Chef Mao?
Lumine: Chef Mao?
Barbara: Oh, the popular Wanmin Restaraunt chain in Liyue? That one?
Xiangling: So you've heard of us! I'm glad!

• Ecstatic, Xiangling gestures to the steaming dish that she just cooked up

Xiangling: Oh, since your friend decided to already try a bit, why don't you guys grab a bite too? Hopefully my cooking lives up to our restaraunt's name!

• The group happily obliges and the dish itself is actually quite delicious, as they've come to realize
• The five begin to talk amongst themselves, breaking the ice cream

Lumine: So Wanmin Restaraunt's well-known here?
Kaeya: Yup. Famed stop in Liyue--neighboring nation of Mondstadt. Pretty close relations.
Barbara: Mhm! I haven't gone myself to the actual restaraunt, but there are those that deliver to Mondstadt. So, sometimes, I order some Jueyun Chilis!
Paimon: W-wait, just the Jueyun Chilis?!
Barbara: Yup!
Paimon:
Lumine:
Kaeya:
Kaeya: I did not know this about you.
Barbara: For me, I like spicy food because it helps me with my singing.
Xiangling: Oh, I should totally ask my friend Xinyan to make you some of her Jueyun Chili Chicken then! It's flaming hot!
Barbara: Really?
Xiangling: Mhm. So spicy that it makes most people's eyes water! Almost like it's actually on fire!
Barbara: Oooh!
Paimon: Do... do people with water visions have better spice tolerance?
Kaeya: Does it look like I know? This is the first time I'm learning this about Barb, and I've known her since she was a kid.
Xiangling: Oh, speaking of, I don't know your names!
Kaeya: Kaeya Alberich of the Knights of Favonius. Pleasure to meetcha, Miss Chef.
Barbara: I'm Barbara Pegg, deaconess of the Favonius Church.
Paimon: Paimon's Paimon! And this is my best friend! Lumine, Lumine, introduce yourself!
Lumine, giggling: And Lumine's Lumine. Er, I'm Lumine.
Kaeya, teasing: The Honorary Knight of the Favonius.
Lumine: Kaeya...
Barbara: You should be proud of that title, Lumine! It takes many years to be a Knight!
Lumine: Y-yeah, but I feel like that's all anyone in Mondstadt is gonna call me...
Xiangling: Haha, okay, okay. So we have Kaeya, Barbara, Paimon, and Lumine. Gotcha!

• Suddenly, a little grunt is heard, something tugging at Xiangling's clothes

Xiangling: Oh, and this little guy is Guoba. He's like you, Paimon! He's my best friend!

• Paimon stares at Guoba and Guoba stares at Paimon as well. Guoba has a little chili pepper in his hand, only to suddenly burp, spitting out flames into her face

Paimon: H-HEY, WHAT WAS THAT FOR?!
Xiangling: Guoba, manners!

• Xiangling picks Guoba up, setting her on his lap

Xiangling: Sorry, he's really bad with spice. Happens whenever he eats anything spicy... I can't have him taste test any of the hotter dishes I make, even though he loves it so much.
Lumine, Paimon, Kaeya: (internally) If he can't handle it, why does he keep eating it...?
Xiangling: Anyway, I'm here in Mondstadt to incorporate Mondstadt boar meat into a new recipe.
Barbara: Mondstadt boar meat?
Kaeya: There's a difference between Mondstadt boars and Liyue's?
Xiangling: Hmm... how to explain it...

• Xiangling mulls over it before explaining

Xiangling: So, recently, I was making some Tianshu Meat for my friends, but they said it tasted a bit differently than it usually does. When I tried it, I thought the same thing! It was almost more... how to put it... mmm...
Xiangling: It was almost like it was more "airy" in a sense. Not in a bad way, of course! Just tasted different from how it usually did.
Xiangling: So, I checked over the ingredients. I did the same exact thing I usually did, but it turns out that the one differentiating factor was the meat I used. Dad left some Mondstadt boar lying around that he got from a colleague.
Kaeya: Wouldn't it look different then?
Xiangling: See, that's what I thought, but when I compared the way it appeared and mimicked the way I prepared Liyue boar and Mondstadt boar, even when prepared the same way? There was a slight earthy taste to the Liyue boar dish!
Paimon: Hmm... could it have to do with the leylines?
Lumine: Leylines?
Barbara: Leylines are basically a network of elemental energy that run through Teyvat.
Lumine: Huh...
Xiangling: Mhm. So I had a theory that maybe I can create a new spin on a dish with Mondstadt boar meat! I wanna find a perfect way for that airy taste to compliment the Liyue cuisine that I'm so familiar with.
Lumine: So you came to Mondstadt to find it, huh?
Xiangling: Exactly! I've been hunting boar for a bit, and right now, the theory seems to be holding up. So, I'm gonna try and find more boar to bring back home and experiment with.
Barbara: Well, Xiangling, if you need help, we're happy to assist!
Xiangling: Really?
Barbara: Mhm. All of us are Vision users.

• Barbara then turns to Lumine and Paimon

Barbara: W-well, most of us, but Lumine can still fight!
Kaeya: And Paimon can be the bait.
Paimon: HEY!

• So from here on, Xiangling's story quest begins! (I'm gonna go through it pretty quickly because what matters mostly is the interactions between the characters rather than the story quest itself)

• What happens is that the group goes to hunt for more boars, only to be found by those that live in Springvale. They explain how it kinda was a bad that they hunted boars without letting the local hunters know, so they go to apologize to Draff, one of the main heads of the hunters
• After learning who they are, Draff backs down and expresses that he's happy to let Xiangling use the meat to promote Springvale meat.
• At this moment, however, something feels... off.

Xiangling: Of course! I mean, that was why I came here in the first place.

• Lumine doesn't know why, but she felt as if Xiangling was supposed to reject that request
• But, why would she? After all, she came to hunt in Springvale for Mondstadt boar meat, right? But, still.
• Noticing her in a daze, Paimon nudges her

Paimon: You okay, Lumine?
Lumine: Yeah, just. Um. Feeling weird.

• It's that same feeling she had when meeting Kaeya, meeting Barbara. The feeling that something else was supposed to ensue but didn't--the feeling that something was changed.
• But she didn't budge. She was happy that Xiangling was able to at least achieve a goal.
• As time passed and Xiangling was ready to leave, she passed by a woman named Brook. She was impressed by Brook's dish, but a little upset that her method of cooking was seen as lesser.

Xiangling: The Qingxin Flower will add flavoring that enhances your dish! Just try--chef's honor!
Brook: No, that's complete overkill!
Barbara: Um... what're they talking about?
Kaeya: Does it look like I know? Most cooking prowess I got is kebabs and skewers.
Barbara: M-Mn...

• The two would then proceed to conduct a cooking competition. Xiangling's dish would end up on Brook's stock if she won, and Brook's dish would be included in Wanmin's menu if Brook won.
• They'd ensue on a journey to then find some ingredients
• Here, more conversation arises

Lumine: So, Xiangling... you said the boars in Mondstadt taste different from Liyue boars?
Xiangling: Yup!
Lumine: Do you think we could put that to the test?
Xiangling: Hm? Oh, are you suggesting we go to Liyue for the ingredients?

• Xiangling hums to herself, only to come to a conclusion Lumine didn't suspect

Xiangling: Well, to be honest, I wanna make the competition fair. Brook mainly has Mondstadt ingredients, so I'd rather we just scout out local ingredients instead.

• That wasn't the response Lumine was expecting.
• ...this gut feeling kept growing by the day and she didn't know why.

Xiangling: Oh, but, actually, there is some area that's still within the Mondstadt borders that might have what we're looking for! I've seen lotus heads and jueyun chilis growing there. It's still not Liyue, but just in the Mondstadt area, so.
Lumine: Oh! That... that makes sense.
Kaeya: I thought you'd want to bring your all, not completely handicap yourself.
Xiangling: I gave her my honor as a chef. And good chefs can still make use of the limited ingredients they have.
Barbara: You're really passionate about cooking, aren't you?
Xiangling: Mhm. It's always been something I've loved! My dad made Wanmin Restaraunt and was a chef that persisted through the Li and Yue cuisine wars!
Lumine: Cuisine wars?
Paimon: Oh, oh! Paimon remembers! There's two distinct cooking styles in Liyue! The Li style uses ingredients from the mountains and are SUPER flavorful!
Barbara: Oh, how flavorful?
Paimon: REALLY flavorful! EXTRA flavorful! If Paimon remembers correctly, it's super rich and impactful and... mmm... Paimon wants to eat now.

• The group breaks out into laughter

Barbara: Then what's Yue?
Paimon: Um... that's...

• Paimon thinks then answers happily, as if she just pulled that recently discovered file out from a new hallway in her mind palace that just opened up

Paimon: Yue styled cuisine is like. Seafood-y kinda. It uses food from the oceans and it's a lot lighter!
Lumine: I see...
Kaeya: So, which does Wanmin follow?
Xiangling: None of them.

• Xiangling continued walking, Guoba waddling behind her as they went, picking up ingredients along the way

Xiangling: To be honest, I don't really believe in that stuff. Actually, it kinda frustrates me.
Kaeya: Huh. You? Get frustrated?
Xiangling: It doesn't look like it, but, to be honest? I have a really, really bad temper.

• She leans down, plucking some lotus heads nearby

Xiangling: So when the whole Li or Yue cuisine war happened, I got so frustrated. I went "food is food, and good food is good food! What about it?!" No one really believed me, so I set out to prove them wrong.

• She looked at the water below her with a solemn look

Xiangling: ...people probably thought my love for cooking stemmed from something like my parents. But my whole experimentation shtick was solely from that.

• She looks up at the group and then sighs

Xiangling: Honestly? When it comes to things like "a food has to be prepared this way" or "food has to be that way", I get angry. Mainly because it's just... so frustrating to me.
Xiangling: Someone will like a food in one way, others in another. Like, sure, some food will just taste universally bad, but someone out there will like it. No point in debating over whether this style or that style's right.

• She continues to walk on forward, Lumine's eyes flickering with recognition.
• She's felt this before. It was just like with Barbara and Kaeya.

Xiangling: There's still some nations in Teyvat that are all like... "this food is better because I say so" or something. And I... I wanna prove 'em wrong.

• Xiangling turns around, determinedly

Xiangling: Good food is good food, and as long as you have the passion and willpower to make it into good food, it will turn out just as delicious as any other dish!

• A few seconds of stunned silence filled the air. As no one reacted, Xiangling let out an eep and her face turned red

Xiangling: S-Sorry... I was a bit too much there.
Kaeya: No, no. It was impressive.
Barbara: Mhm! I agree!

• The girl looks at the others in confusion

Barbara: I think it's wonderful that you're so passionate about it! It just shows you really do love cooking!
Paimon: Uh-huh! 'cuz good food is good food, and anyone who says otherwise is wrong!
Barbara: W-well, I wouldn't put it that way, but--
Paimon: Nu-uh, I agree. Prove 'em wrong, Xiangling! Do it!

• Xiangling's eyes widened in surprise, before she broke out into a hearty laugh

Xiangling: Agh... jeez, you're all so interesting. Just like my friends back in Liyue.
Xiangling: ...to be honest, I do wanna prove the world wrong but.

• Xiangling looks at Guoba, handing him a chili pepper, which he eats happily. Her hand gently pats his head

Xiangling: Just as much as I love cooking, I also really... REALLY love Liyue. To the point where I can't really leave for long periods of time.
Lumine: You... can't?

• Xiangling shakes her head

Xiangling: If I'm gone for too long, I feel like something... BAD will happen. Like the city will crumble or be in danger. It's a really weird feeling, and it makes no sense. I told my dad about it and he said it might just be homesickness but.
Xiangling, sighing: I don't know...

• Someone moves up to Xiangling, standing behind her. When Xiangling turns, she sees Barbara, smiling happily.

Barbara: I know it's hard, but someday, you'll be able to over that fear. Then, you'll be able to travel all of Teyvat and show the world what good food truly is.
Barbara, smiling: I want to do the same. Leave Mondstadt and prove myself with my songs.

• Xiangling's eyes sparkled. A soul like hers. She smiled and nodded.

Xiangling: Haha. Then if you're wishing me luck, I'll wish you luck too, okay?
Barbara: Mhm! Got it!

• The two girls smiled. Barbara and Xiangling became fast friends. And, for some reason, that sight warmed Lumine's heart...
• ...if Barbara hadn't gone with Lumine, if she had stayed at the Cathedral, would those two have ever met?

Kaeya: Hey, glad you're ready to burn the world down with your spicy dishes and everything, but you should probably get to ingredient-gathering for the competition first, hm?

• Kaeya smiled, patting Xiangling on the back before moving on ahead

Xiangling: I'm not JUST good at spicy dishes! I can do other stuff!
Kaeya: Then if that's the case, I expect a table reserved for me at Wanmin. You wanna prove the world wrong, you gotta prove me wrong first.
Xiangling: Hm. Well, we have a very long wait time, but maybe I can put in a request to the head chef.
Kaeya: Really?
Xiangling: Yeah, just give me a second...
Xiangling, after a few seconds: Head chef says maybe.
Kaeya: Oh, come on.

• Kaeya too seems to be getting along with Xiangling. It's... refreshing. Three fates that probably never would've interacted in such a way before are now intertwining so casually, as if this was how it should be.
• Lumine smiled through it all... unable to contain her happiness.
• Time passed on and there were some interesting developments. There was a boar that was found to have been frozen for nearly a century, as well as one of Draff's ancestors. Xiangling used her fire to help thaw the ice.
• After helping the cryogenically preserved man to Mondstadt, the competition ensued and, unsurprisingly, Xiangling won
• However, she realizes that it was because of the extinct boar meat more than anything else. Even so, the ones judging insisted she accept the win. She and Brook also trade tips on cooking

• It's an alls-well-that-ends well scenario, and Xiangling is about to return to Liyue

Xiangling: I should get going... like I said, I don't exactly like being away from home for too long, so...

• However, when she turns around, Guoba is gone.

Xiangling: Guoba...? GUOBA?!
Paimon: Uh oh...! Did he run off?!
Xiangling: Guoba! Where are you? Where did you go?
Barbara: Um, I'll check in that direction, Kaeya can take the other, and Lumine and Paimon in that area.
Lumine: Got it!
Xiangling: Wait, let me come with you! I need to find him.
Kaeya: Xiangling, stay where you are. He might try coming back.
Xiangling: B-but, but--
Lumine: Xiangling, stay calm. It'll be okay. There's no rush in you going back home, alright?

• Xiangling looks at Lumine, as if worried. It's a pleading look. One that says she's scared.
• Lumine didn't know why. But she felt unnerved, unsettled.
• A few minutes passed, each member of the group calling out Guoba's name. Xiangling stayed where she was, fidgeting, hoping Guoba would return.
• Until, finally...

Paimon: Hey, everyone! Found him!

• Guoba was found sleeping on a tree stump in front of a small campfire, bedding of leaves and hay a good few feet away from the heat source.
• Guoba had set up camp. It seems he simply fell asleep and forgot to retrieve everyone else.

Xiangling: Guoba...
Barbara: Well, it seems like Guoba wants to camp out here...
Kaeya: The sun is setting. Can't exactly blame him. And he used up a lot of energy burning down that ancient Cryo Regisvine.

• For those of you who had forgotten what happened in Xiangling's story quest, there was a 200-300 year old Cryo Regisvine that the group had to defeat.

Kaeya: Real helpful that we had a Pyro Vision-holder here or else we would've been screwed.

• Xiangling looks at Guoba, who's peacefully dozing off... her eyes are full of worry

Xiangling: ...
Lumine: Xiangling? Something wrong?
Xiangling: Um...

• Xiangling looks up at the sky. The sun is setting and night is about to turn. And Guoba's quite the heavy sleeper--he must've been tired.
• But she can't stay in Mondstadt for too long. She needs to return to Liyue. That's the only place she can be...
• ...the only place she's ALLOWED to be.
• A few hours. Just a few hours of rest. That's the limit.

Xiangling: I guess we can take a little nap here.

• With Xiangling resolving to stay a little while longer, everyone disperses.

Paimon: Ooh, Paimon calls the leaf bed!
Kaeya: You do that. I'm sleeping under some shade.
Barbara: Mind if I take the second pile of leaves?
Lumine: You sure, Barbara? If you need, we can ask the other villagers for blankets or something.
Barbara: Not at all! 'Roughing it in the wild' seems like a very exciting experience!
Lumine: Haha... you have an interesting way of putting it.

• Meanwhile, the chef herself sat on top of the log next to Guoba, watching as her friend began to doze off.
• Her eyes were filled with worry. Something in her heart was burning... as if a voice in her heart was stoking a fire within, one that would burn her from the inside out
• "Return to Liyue"
• "You cannot stay here"
• While the others slept peacefully, Xiangling couldn't.
• She simply stared at the campfire burning brightly before her, hoping that Guoba would wake up and they could return home.

"Once Upon a Time, there was a little panda chef..."

"This little panda chef was very talented, blessed with the love of cooking passed down from her ancestors. Her love for cooking was so great, that she was granted a beautiful ladle--with this ladle, she was able to cook the greatest food that any creature could ever taste."

"In the midst of a culinary feud, a fire burned within her heart, stirring feelings of turmoil within. How is it that those who claimed they loved the culinary arts would find such disdain for their fellow chefs?"

"Enraged, the little panda chef brought out her ladle."

"'Good food is good food," she cried out. "And I will prove it to all of you!'"

"And prove it she did. As time passed, she became known as the greatest chef in the Geode Empire. And that made her incredibly happy."

"The Gods in the skies blessed her, for they loved the little panda chef. In Their eyes, she was an obedient child, one who followed her destiny to a tee. They had given her the gift of a carefree, happy life--one devoid of troubles."

"However, as time passed, the little panda looked out at the view of the Geode Empire. So many loved her food, but she wanted to go further. With her ladle, she could introduce the world outside to food they have never feasted on and perhaps even learn how to cook dishes based on different culinary cultures."

"'I want to set out with my ladle and prove to the world that 'good food is good food'--to show them all what good food can be, and to learn of more good food in return!'"

"But at that, the Gods forbade it."

"Their beloved child, so obedient, who never had any other want, had disobeyed a simple rule: she must stay within the Geode Empire. When the little panda began to wander back and forth from the Geode Empire to the neighboring Dandelion Kingdom, They grew even more furious."

"The Gods' wrath grew, until eventually, They used the one thing that could keep the little panda in line:"

"Her home."

"They sent her a vision, one that paralyzed the poor little chef."

"'If you are to leave, your Empire will be swept under waves unlike any other. Your beloved home shall perish, and no one shall be spared. If you do not remain, many lives will be lost. And you will be the cause of it all.'"

"The little panda chef wept; she loved her home more than anything. Her friends, her family--it was what made her into who she was. More than food, she loved those that loved her in return."

"If her dream would cause harm to her beloved Geode Empire, then she must destroy it."

"The little panda chef took the ladle with her and locked it away. That ladle would waste away in a box as she remained in her kitchen in the Geode Empire. With that ladle, her dream too was locked up."

"Yet as she cooked, as the days had passed, a fire kept burning within her. Not one of passion, but one of rage. One of unsatisfaction. One of longing."

"Her dream tried to fight her, but she kept suppressing it. Until finally, the little panda's heart burned her to the core..."

"Her last meal was scorching hot, yet her body was cold. The only thing that remained to tell her tale was that ladle in the box--the last sign of the little panda's crushed dream."

"And at that, the Gods smiled. For she had lived out her destiny..."

"...just as They desired."

• Awokened by yet another dream. Lumine's eyes shot open, her breathing heavy.
• First Kaeya, then Barbara, and now Xiangling. And yet it didn't happen with Jean, Lisa, Amber, Diluc, Venti...
• What was this? Why was this? Why were the dreams so specific?
• And why... did the creatures die in the end?
• Each time, there was a pattern of an animal wanting something. Each time, the animal was denied that dream because it was "against their destiny". And each time, they died according to their element.
• It was cruel. It was disheartening...
• ...it was sad.
• Lumine's head was pounding, her heart racing. Was this... normal?
• Whatever the case, she needed to talk to Xiangling. If there was a chance to prevent anything from happening to her, Lumine had to take it.
• Destiny be damned. She didn't want to see someone live out their life in regret all because of a fear.
• Lumine carefully looked around. Kaeya, Barbara, and Paimon were dozing off. The moon was high in the sky--in a few hours, they were to meet with Diluc at Angel's Share. But right now, she had the opportunity.
• She walked around, only to see Xiangling roasting something atop the fire. Guoba was sound asleep, the chef's eyes downcast.

Lumine: Hey. That smells really good.

• Xiangling flinched before looking up. Lumine approached, sitting down beside her

Lumine: What're you making?
Xiangling: Oh. Um...

• Taken aback, Xiangling tries to calm herself before continuing the conversation

Xiangling: Just some Grilled Tiger Fish. Not much.
Lumine: Still. You seem to have some kind of magic touch when it comes to cooking. Like anything you make is the best food anyone's ever tasted!
Xiangling: You think so?
Lumine: Mhm. Draff and the others in Springvale thought so. Even Brook!
Xiangling: Thanks. That... means a lot.

• Xiangling looked at the skewer as it was being grilled

Xiangling: ...so, had a good nap?
Lumine: Ah...

• Lumine still couldn't shake the vision she had

Lumine: ...let's just say I had a bit of a nightmare.
Lumine, turning to Xiangling: What about you? Got any sleep?
Xiangling: Nah, just. Been stress-cooking.
Xiangling, chuckling: Most people stress eat, but I stress cook. Weird, right?
Lumine: Not entirely. Actually, I think it's pretty neat.

• Xiangling and Lumine exchange a few small laughs, and yet, there's a tired look on Xiangling's face. Perhaps this was the opportunity.

Lumine: ...is it about heading back to Liyue?

• Xiangling froze for a bit. So Lumine hit the correct chord.

Lumine: You seemed in a hurry until Guoba sort of knocked out. Is something wrong? Are you maybe homesick?
Xiangling: U-um.

• The fire before the two of them reflected in Xiangling's eyes. As it burned, it wasn't too different from the fire within her--except instead of one of passion, it was one that was beginning to tear her apart.
• But to keep it inside is what she needed. What was demanded of her.

Xiangling: It's nothing.
Lumine: ...

• Lumine looked up at the sky

Lumine: I tend to have nightmares.
Xiangling: Hm?
Lumine: They're really, really silly nightmares, but. They still eat away at me.
Lumine: Things like my brother leaving me behind, or falling to my death from a cliff because there was nothing to break my fall. Silly, but enough to keep me up at night.
Lumine: Things that are 'nothing' could easily be something. You just... don't think it's anything because you're afraid to make it seem as severe as it is.

• As Lumine spoke, Xiangling looked at her with shock on her face. Lumine then let out a small chuckle

Lumine: Ah, but that's just a me thing. I guess.
Xiangling: ...

• Xiangling pulled the Grilled Tiger Fish towards her. Unknowingly, she burnt it. Letting out a sigh, she stood up anyway
• Afraid she was about to leave, Lumine too was close to standing up, only for the chef to speak as she moved to season the 'stress-snack'

Xiangling: I have to go back home. Because I... keep getting nightmares about it.

• Lumine sat back down, realizing what Xiangling was talking about

Lumine: Go on. I'm listening.
Xiangling: ...
Xiangling: When I was younger, I always wanted to go to the different nations of Teyvat. It was my dream. And as I got older and more renowned, I thought "oh, this is my chance"!
Xiangling: I have a good home life. There's nothing to complain about. My entire life has been great. I was passionate with my cooking and that's how my Vision showed up.
Lumine: Vision?

• Xiangling looked at the Pyro Vision on her hip

Xiangling: Visions are supposed to be gifts from the gods in Celestia. It's said that the element you get it supposed to reflect who you are as a person.
Xiangling: There's lots of theories that go around about what each element means. Cryo means something about being stuck in place between choices, Electro about being an outsider, Anemo about continuing to move forward, Geo for being so "solid" on what you believe in...
Xiangling: Dendro about seeking truth and knowledge, Hydro for seeking an ideal, and so on.
Xiangling: They say that Pyro's supposed to represent a burning resolve or passion, like how fire burns bright.
Xiangling, somber: ...but...
Lumine: ...but?
Xiangling: I guess that's just not written in the stars for me though. I don't think the gods want that for me.

• "Written in the stars"...?

Lumine: What's that mean?
Xiangling: You haven't heard? Everyone in Teyvat has a destiny they have to follow. There's people that are well-known astrologists--they study the constellations or something.
Xiangling: Every point of your life is already determined. If you stray, something bad'll happen. I guess the gods were trying to tell me that I... have something else to do.
Lumine: What do you mean by that?
Xiangling: Well, I've... been having nightmares lately.
Xiangling: A dragon falling from the sky, dead on the ground; some kind of hydra destroying Liyue; and...

• At that, Xiangling froze

Xiangling: I just saw... so many Liyuens running for their lives. Being so scared. The waves washing out stalls near the port, rubble everywhere, kids screaming for their parent
Xiangling: It was terrifying.

• She was trembling as she said this, as if recalling the visions she recieved

Xiangling: Sometimes, I'm too afraid to sleep. I don't want to see it.
Xiangling: And it was clear that it was the gods trying to warn me. Maybe even the Geo Archon himself, Yanwang Dijun.

• Yanwang Dijun, known by others as Rex Lapis. She mentioned him in passing as they were busy collecting ingredients, but Xiangling seemed to speak highly of him

Lumine: You respect him, huh?
Xiangling: A lot of us in Liyue do. He's our Archon. Tells us his prospects for businesses, generous, everything like that.
Xiangling: ...so if he gave me those dreams to warn me, then it's my duty as a Liyue Vision-holder to stay in Liyue to protect the home I love.

• She looked at Lumine, eyes watery

Xiangling: Right?
Xiangling: My duty is to Liyue and Liyue's Archon. My dreams come second... right?

• Even though Xiangling seemed to be resolute in her stance, she was shaking. It was clear...
• She was scared. She didn't know what to do.
• Recognizing that fear, Lumine walked up to Xiangling, placing her hand on her shoulder

Lumine: Hey.
Lumine: I'm... sorry. I know I don't know enough about you to provide any real advice, but...

• Lumine thought for a second of what to say. Should she tell Xiangling that the Gods who sent her those nightmares were purposely trying to fearmonger her into staying put?
• That she was forbidden from leaving Liyue solely because of the fact that They wanted her to remain there? That she was meant to remain on the sidelines?
• She wanted more, Lumine understood that. And she was getting upset at the fact that Xiangling was cast to the side solely because the Gods wanted her to life a life that she felt trapped in.
• Finally, she spoke, explaining her dream

Lumine: I think the "Gods" you're talking about aren't sending you nightmares to warn you.

• Xiangling's eyes widened
• And so, Lumine told her everything
• The little panda chef, the ladle, the little panda's dreams, and the Gods' plan for her
• At first, Xiangling didn't seem to believe it. But as time passed, her face turned to a shroud.
• And finally, into despair
• Xiangling is a kind soul. Lumine could tell that just from the few hours she spent with her. But just as she's kind, she's also prone to being hurt.
• Until finally, she sniffled

Xiangling: ...(hic)
Lumine: Xiangling?
Xiangling, hiccuping: It's. It's nothing. (sniffle)

• But it wasn't nothing.
• Because the girl was wiping her tears, crying

Xiangling, shaky: O-oh. Whoops. Guess I salted the Grilled Tiger Fish with my tears, haha. L-look at that!

• Lumine couldn't help but sympathize with her.
• The third person forced to live a life they didn't want, a third person who was forced to kill off their desires--hopes, dreams for the future
• How many other Teyvatans suffered in this way? She didn't know. But she wanted to help.
• She needed to tell them the truth, so that hopefully, they could take their life back

Xiangling: Um. (sniff) Sorry, I don't know where that came from, I just--

• Lumine tightly hugged Xiangling, who was stunned

Lumine: I'm sorry.

• It was just a simple few words.
• Two words. Words that Lumine didn't need to mutter, for she wasn't the one at fault.
• But still, Xiangling cried

Lumine: You had such big dreams, and someone told you that you had to put them aside. They used your love for your home against you to stop you from pursuing them.
Lumine: You were used, you were betrayed. And for that, I'm so sorry.

• Lumine didn't know what else to tell her. She could only apologize.
• She was sorry that Xiangling lived her life in fear that pursuing her dreams would be sacriligeous, that it would only hurt those around her
• And sorry that she had to be the one to break it to her

Lumine: I didn't want to tell you like this, but you seemed so happy traveling with us.
Lumine: I know it's only been a few hours but...

• Lumine looked Xiangling in the eyes with a shaky smile

Lumine: I hope to consider you as a friend.

• Xiangling continued to cry--after all, she was told that the way she led life was because someone else prevented her from living it her own way
• But what Lumine said touched her in some way. A way that she couldn't explain.
• It was as if the tears she shed began to put out that raging inferno within her, leaving behind an ocean
• Perhaps someday, that ocean would lead Xiangling to her new dream

Xiangling: ...yeah.

• Xiangling sniffed, trying to wipe away her tears, before having a teary smile

Xiangling: I. I wanna be your friend too.
Xiangling, determined: And I want to start up my dream again. With you. With ALL of you.

• A new resolve appeared in Xiangling's heart that night
• The little panda chef approached the ladle she locked away, turning the key, and opening the box
• She will pursue that dream. Without fail. Without anyone stopping her.
• And so that night, that raging inferno turned into a raging tide that vowed to never let that dream go again

• A few hours later, Kaeya, Barbara, and Paimon awoke to the sound of pots and pans

Xiangling: Wakey wakey, eggs and bakey! Mondstadt's got a dragon problemo!
Guoba: ~~~~♪
Paimon, startled awake: BACON?!
Lumine: See? Toldja it'd work.
Kaeya: Ugh... five more minutes...
Lumine: Kaeya, we need to see your brother.
Kaeya: Five more decades then...
Xiangling: Wow. Drama king.

• Kaeya grunted before opening his eye. Standing in front of him was Guoba, staring him straight in the face

Kaeya: WHAT THE HELL--!
Guoba: !!!

• As Kaeya jolted up out of his sleep, Guoba then ran over to Barbara, leaning over and gently tapping her on the shoulder

Barbara: Dahlia... I'll sing with you later...
Xiangling: Ooh, who's Dahlia~?
Barbara: H-huh?

• As soon as Barbara opened her eyes, she saw a small smirk on Xiangling's face. As well as on the faces of a tired Kaeya and Paimon

Kaeya: So, Barbara dreams of a deacon boy, huh?
Barbara: EEP!

• She too jolted awake, hands covering her face

Barbara: Stop talking stop talking stop talking stop talking--!
Paimon: Who's Dahlia?
Guoba: ~♪
Paimon: Why would a flower be singing with Barbara, Guoba?
Lumine: Wait, you can understand Guoba?
Paimon: Of course Paimon can understand Guoba!

• Kaeya stood up, stretching, before addressing the sudden change in atmosphere

Kaeya: So. Seems like someone's in less of a rush to get back home, eh, Miss Chef?
Xiangling: Well, let's just say...

• Xiangling looked to Lumine, who simply smiled

Xiangling: This little panda chef's up for a few more adventures before heading home.
Kaeya: Panda chef?
Barbara: Guoba can cook too?
Paimon: Whoa, can you, Guoba?

• The three who just awoke turned to the little bear, who stared at them wide-eyed in response

Guoba: !!!

• He then waddled up to Xiangling, clinging to her leg

Guoba: ~♪
Paimon: Oh, oh! Guoba said...
Paimon, making a gruff voice: "Xiangling's the better cook!"

• Xiangling began to burst out in laughter

Xiangling: Pfft! Is that how you imagine him to sound like?
Paimon: Well, what other voice would he have?
Barbara: I think it'd be more cute and cuddly!
Paimon: Then maybe...
Paimon, in a somehow higher-pitched voice than before: "Xiangling's the better cook!"
Xiangling: What? No, that's actually worse!

• As the girls and the bear bantered, Kaeya moved next to Lumine, whispering softly

Kaeya: So.
Kaeya: First a one-eyed peacock, and now a little panda chef. Two dreams in a row, eh?

• Lumine chuckled under her breath before correcting him

Lumine: There was also a little kitten that was a deaconness at a church.
Kaeya: ...
Kaeya, turning to Lumine: Barbara too?
Lumine: Barbara too.

• The two stood there, watching the others mess about

Kaeya: ...any reason as to why it's us?
Lumine: No clue.
Kaeya: Any noticeable patterns?
Lumine: Yup. Being denied the future you wanted by the Gods and dying in the end.
Kaeya: Okay, so we're working with broad strokes first. Got it.

• Kaeya sighed, rubbing the back of his neck

Kaeya: ...I guess we'll worry about the weird fairytale premonitions after we deal with Dvalin though, right?
Lumine, chuckling: Ideally, yes. We'll just cross that bridge when we get there.
Kaeya: So. Does that mean Xiangling's coming with us?

• Lumine looked at Xiangling, who was happily talking with Barbara and Paimon. It was almost like her peppy self wasn't just restored, but amplified--reborn to some extent
• Perhaps this wasn't where the Gods intended Xiangling to be. But to Lumine, it was where she belonged.

Lumine: Yeah. Besides, like you said before.
Lumine: We'd be screwed without a Pyro User, right?

Chapter Text

Chapter 1.0.4: Lyre Repair 101

• So last we left off, Xiangling has now joined our ragtag group of Vision wielders!
• Our team is now Lumine, Paimon, Kaeya, Barbara, and Xiangling; no, there is probably NO cohesion in this team comp in terms of the actual game. Do not try at home. or prove me wrong like whatever
• And so, the group heads over back to Angel's Share, which...

Kaeya: Do we HAVE to go back?
Paimon: Do you WANNA save Mondstadt?!
Kaeya: Yeah, but do we have to get help from him?
Xiangling: Okay, what's the story here?
Kaeya: Long story short, Lil' Miss Chef, I "done did a fucky-wucky" and he hates my guts now.
Kaeya, grumbling: Glares at me everytime I enter the room.
Xiangling: Snrk. "Done did a fucky-wucky".
Lumine: Guys, please don't swear in front of Barbara and Paimon.
Paimon: Did a fucky-wucky--
Lumine: See? Look. You influenced her.
Kaeya: Ooh, maybe I should swear more than.
Lumine: Please. Please don't.
Barbara: U-um, should I be covering my ears for this, or--
Lumine: Yes.
Xiangling and Kaeya: No.
Lumine: ...
Kaeya: You. I like you.
Xiangling: Ditto.

• Surprisingly, Xiangling and Kaeya have begun to get along quite well. Likely because both of them had some sort of metaphorical restraint holding them back from being unabashedly themselves that recently broke. As such, they ended up like this

• Anyway, the group finally heads back to the Tavern, where...

Jean: Barbara?!
Barbara: B-Big Sister?!

• Barbara panics, as does Jean.

Kaeya: Jean--
Jean: Kaeya?

• Kaeya is just as surprised as Barbara is, only for Jean to then see Lumine...

Jean: Wait, Lumine?

Lumine: J-Jean--
Paimon: Paimon!
Xiangling: Xiangling! Glad we're all accounted for!

• Jean and Diluc simply stared at Paimon and Xiangling, while Venti was struggling to hold in his laughter

Kaeya: Diluc, I know we were talking about you being slow on the uptake with Jean, but--
Diluc: Ugh. That ISN'T why I called her here.

• Diluc rolled his eyes before actually getting to business

Diluc: First of all, I contacted more than one person. And, SECOND of all, she came here as "Jean" herself. Not the Acting Grand Master.

• His eyes seemed to soften as he introduced her

Diluc: A Jean you would never see, even as a Knight.
Kaeya, coughing: 'Cuz we don't see her as a datemate--
Diluc: What was that?
Kaeya: Nothing.
Venti: (stifling his laughter)
Jean: I heard about the Holy Lyre but... I never suspected it was you all.

• Jean turns her head to Barbara and Kaeya

Jean: You two specifically. Barbara, you could be in serious trouble!
Barbara: I-I was just going to lend it to them, I promise--
Jean: And Kaeya, you could've reported this all to me. I would've gone off-duty to pursue this.
Kaeya, smirking: Oops.
Paimon: So where'd the "not-Acting-Grandmaster-Jean" go? Because I think she just disappeared.
Venti: We just explained to her the situation.
Jean: Yes... the sound of the Holy Lyre can allegedly purify Stormterror and return it to normal.
Venti: Yup! And these guys are all putting themselves on the front line to try and resolve this entire issue! Gotta give 'em some praise, eh?
Xiangling: Why... does it sound like you guys broke a law?
Kaeya: Can't break a law if you ARE the law.
Diluc: That's not how it works.
Jean: Really not how it works.
Paimon: DEFINITELY not how it works.

• Diluc turns to Jean, attempting to persuade her

Diluc: Now, I understand this kind of absurd explanation is hard to believe, but we can ask the bard to play the song again to try and persuade our stubborn comman--
Jean: I believe you.
Diluc:
Diluc: wait what
Jean: Well, I can't think of any reason for Dvalin's betrayal, given it was once one of The Four Winds, but if it was poisoned in the battle over Mondstadt all those years ago and then corrupted by an Abyss Mage after it woke up, we can't exactly blame it.
Jean: But, as Acting Grand Master, I obviously cannot make such a statement publicly due to diplomatic pressure from the Fatui. It makes it hard for us to seek a peaceful resolution to the Stormterror issue and people would think I've lost grip on the gravity of the situation.
Jean: That's why I can only really handle this in private.

• Everyone stared at her, surprised that she was so... okay with the explanation

Xiangling: ...okay, so I feel like I'm missing a lot of backstory here.
Venti: I could play the song for y--
Paimon, Kaeya, Diluc: NO.
Venti: Aww...

• Diluc massaged his temples, brow furrowed. Why, oh why, was the fate of Mondstadt put in the hands of these people?

Diluc: Ignoring... THAT...
Diluc: I'm a little surprised you'd believe an outlander so easily, Jean.
Jean: Well, my cautious and meticulous superior, even you trust her. Don't you, sir?

• At that, everyone blinked
• Kaeya, who knew, was laughing
• Barbara, who also knew, was smiling
• Meanwhile Lumine, Paimon, Xiangling, and Venti had a small smirk on their face

Lumine: ...sir?
Diluc: Jean--
Jean: Ah...
Xiangling, whispering to Lumine: Are they a thing?
Lumine, whispering back: We think they are.
Paimon, whispering to both of them: Kaeya said they're both slow and in denial.
Diluc: Again, I can HEAR you. And I've already told you not to call me sir, Jean.
Venti, suggestively: Maybe it was out of "habit".
Diluc: ...
Jean, flushed: ...
Jean, coughing: So, I have a rough idea of where the Holy Lyre der Himmel is!

• Kaeya eyed Barbara, Barbara giggling a bit. It was a telepathic communication of "we will exchange information later", but both Jean and Diluc ignored it
• Instead, Jean proceeds to explain the situation: the Fatui are after the Anemo Archon's power so they could give it to the Cryo Archon. They stole the Holy Lyre in order to affect the Anemo God's power so that Dvalin wouldn't be able to be saved. Dragon gone, Mondstadt defenseless, and Anemo Archon power got.
• At the mention of the Anemo Archon, Lumine, Paimon, Kaeya, and Barbara all shot looks at Venti, who simply chuckled in nervousness. Xiangling was still not in the loop yet.
• Diluc determined that the Holy Lyre wasn't in the Goth Grand Hotel which I misspelled last time you will notice this a lot in this shitshow of a fic but rather, a Fatui hideout that Diluc was able to scout out thanks to his... interrogation methods

Kaeya: Otherwise known as he burnt their face to a crisp.
Diluc: The Fatui wear masks. A third degree burn on their face isn't much.
Xiangling:
Xiangling, to the others: 'Kay, so I've only been in Mondstadt for like a day, but I am now seriously worried about law enforcement here.
Paimon: You should be more worried about the Archon and how incompotent he can be...
Venti, teasing: I bet if Barbatos heard that, it'd hurt his feelings.
Paimon, voice dripping with contempt: Yeah, that's the point...

• And so, the group made their way to Windwail Highland, where the Fatui hideout was located

• ...in between a bunch of rocks

Xiangling: So I'm starting to realize a pattern.
Lumine: Hm?
Xiangling: There are. A lot of places that are hidden in very tiny rock crevices.
Lumine: ...(recalling the Cryo Regisvine location from a few hours ago) Huh. Yeah that. That doesn't make sense, does it?
Kaeya: Maybe the people who make the hideouts should stop being criminals and instead be interior designers. Would make a fortune.
Barbara: Oh, like "smaller on the outside, bigger on the inside", right?
Paimon: If those kindsa interior designers existed, Lumine and Paimon would have great recommendations for cozy crevices!
Diluc:
Jean:
Diluc: I am. So tired right now.
Jean: Well, at least they're energetic...?
Venti: Going a bit off-topic here, but I fear that Jean's theory about the Fatui taking Dvalin's power actually falls short of their true intentions.
Jean: How so?
Venti: I think they intend to use Barbatos' connection to the wind to draw him out instead!
Diluc: ...
Diluc: The God of Anemo hasn't been seen for centuries.
Venti:
Kaeya: Oop. He finally slipped.
Barbara: Oh dear.
Xiangling: Wait, what do you mean by--

• Xiangling begins to piece the puzzle pieces together...
• She then stares at Venti, wide-eyed, before turning to the rest

Xiangling: ...no friggin' way.
Lumine: Maybe.
Xiangling, harsh whisper: THAT'S BARBATOS?! HE REEKS OF BOOZE!
Kaeya: Yup.
Paimon: This is what Paimon meant about worrying more about the Archon.
Xiangling: How many of you--
Barbara: W-well, the only ones who don't know are my big sister and Master Diluc, so...
Xiangling: Okay, we are DEFINITELY talking about this later.

• Not paying attention to the harsh whispers occuring behind him, he let out a sigh and instead pulled something out of his pocket

Diluc: Forget it, I don't like having to pry.
Diluc: All of you, catch.
Lumine: Huh?

• Diluc threw up a few Fatui masks, landing squarely in everyone's hands

Paimon: A mask?
Diluc: To protect your identity. Put it on before running into them. Us Mondstadters still need to keep up the illusion that we are 'allies' with the Fatui to some extent.

• Kaeya looked down at the mask, then up at Diluc

Kaeya: A face-covering? That's it?
Diluc: Wh--
Barbara: M-Master Diluc, I appreciate the effort, but my clothing is, um. Quite indicative of my standing with Mondstadt. I am a deaconess, after all...
Kaeya: I'm literally wearing the Favonius emblem on me.
Diluc: You... I--
Venti: Hey, they make a point. They could just spot us from our hair color and clothes and suddenly, they'd know a lot of us are Mondstadters. Who else has black hair with their tips dyed teal?
Diluc, groaning: Ugh... well, they are Fatui, so--
Xiangling: "They're Fatui, they're probably so dumb that these dumb disguises will totally work", right?
Diluc:
Diluc: First of all, who even are you?
Diluc: And second of all, no. I was going to say that--
Jean: Sir, that was what you were going to say, wasn't it?
Diluc:
Diluc, grumbling: Fine. We won't use the masks then.
Venti: ...hey, wait, are these masks handmade?
Kaeya: Oh my god, he arts-and-crafted masks for us.
Xiangling: So THAT'S why my mask looks so cheap! He made it last minute!
Lumine: If it makes you feel better, Diluc, we'll still wear them.
Diluc, growing embarassed: No, it's fine. We'll just wear cloaks or something.
Paimon: Aww, Paimon'll wear it because Master Diluc put a lot of effort into it!
Jean: (chuckling)
Diluc: ...

• So after putting on Diluc's arts and crafts project disguise kit, the group headed into the base
• And, as soon as they entered...

Fatui Guard: HEY! WHO ARE YOU?!
Kaeya: Toldja.
Diluc: Ha-ha, very FUNNY.

• Unfortunately, the mask disguise DEFINITELY didn't work because, unlike Clark Kent, their group sticks out like sore thumbs. So, they instead result to... (reads paper) violence
• And the way they do this is... definitely not so discreet

Barbara: I'm sorry, but you're in our WAY!

• Barbara blasts multiple agents with water using her catalyst
• As she does so, Kaeya walks by, whistling to himself and playing around with his sword. The soaked agents attempt to grab him, however, before they can, they're frozen solid
• Barbara follows Kaeya through the halls, ensuring upcoming enemies were hit with water so Kaeya could turn them into human popsicles
• As he passed by one of them, he smirked

Kaeya: Forget we came here and we'll make sure the pyro panda doesn't turn this ice statue gallery into a bunch of puddles, yeah?

• The half-frozen guard was about to retort, only to hear the sounds of flames from afar approaching

Kaeya: So?
Frozen Guard: Y-Yessir! We'll forget this ever happened, sir!
Kaeya: Good. Anyway, no hard feelings, but...

• Kaeya then tapped the guard's forehead, freezing him entirely

Kaeya: There we go.
Barbara: Did I do okay, Kaeya?
Kaeya: Ya did great, Barb. Keep it up.

• Kaeya high-fived Barbara, the two continuing to walk through the corridor. Lumine and Xiangling, not too far behind, were busy blasting through a different set of guards.

Lumine: Prepare to be blown AWAY!

• Literally. Lumine summoned a tornado and Guoba blew fire into it, creating a fire-tornado that chased many Fatui guards through the corridor.

Paimon: H-HEY, WAIT! PAIMON THOUGHT WE WERE SUPPOSED TO BE STEALTHY!
Xiangling: Stealth's for losers! Fire tornado's for rulers!
Guoba: ~!!
Barbara: ...hey, are they going to be oka--
Kaeya: It's fine. Don't worry about it.

• Many Fatui were knocked out, lying on the ground, frozen solid, or covered in burns. Needless to say, this team of misfits was a force to be reckoned with
• Meanwhile, Diluc, Jean, and Venti were watching in astonishment.
• Well, Venti was. Diluc and Jean were more in horror.

Venti: Huh. Interesting use of their Visions! They caught onto elemental resonance pretty easily!
Jean: ...
Diluc: ...
Diluc: I'm not sure how I should react in this situation.
Jean: Admittedly, me neither...
Diluc: ...you do realize your sister is involved in this, right?
Jean: Which is... exactly why I'm a little shocked to say the least.

• The group, due to practically knocking out everyone, didn't really have to do negotiations with any Fatui because... well
• I mean, majority of them were KO'd
• And yes, none of them died or were killed. They're not heartless.
• Guys, canonically those Fatui respawn. Mobs respawn. They will come back. They're just knocked out okay, that's my EXPLANATION. I DON'T WANT TO IMAGINE BARBARA COVERED IN BLOOD-- imsotiredwritingthisplzendme
• Finally, they get to the room with the Lyre, and there's one guard who ain't too happy about it (they stole the key from the human ice sculpture gallery)

Fatui Guard: What the... how d--
Xiangling: GUOBA, I CHOOSE YOU!
Fatui: Wh--
Guoba: FOOOOO!

• The guard is completely burnt to a crisp, shocked at the sudden onslaught of fire from a panda that's monching on a chili pepper
• Venti hums, lightly stepping over the Agent's body and grabbing the Lyre safely

Venti: There we go. Back in safe hands!
Fatui: Y-you...
Venti: Hm?
Fatui: Signora is... g-going to end you...! The songs bards sing of your demise will be so TERRIFYING--

• As the Fatui attempts to continue talking, Diluc presses his boot against the agents' head, glaring at him

Diluc: Just shut up, will you? You Fatui are so annoying...
Kaeya: Crass as always, aren't you, Master Diluc?
Diluc: Just shut up and freeze him already.
Kaeya: Bossy...

• As Diluc steps off, Kaeya indeed does as instructed and freezes the Fatui Agent

Venti: Ah... the pattern of flowing wind carved on the rosewood, the strings that still remain cool to the touch! What memories!
Jean: Um, Venti? You seem... familiar with that Lyre.
Xiangling, sarcastically: Oh, gee. Wonder why.
Lumine: So, can you summon Dvalin using it then?
Venti: Hmm...

• Venti inspects the Lyre, lightly plucking one of the strings before expressing dissatisfaction

Venti: Well, it... IS the real thing, but... the strings are a bit...

• Venti looks to the group, as if pleading

Lumine: ...
Lumine: No. No, please, no.
Venti: Oh, relax. We just need that Teardrop Crystal you still have on you and the strings'll be as good as new!
Paimon: Paimon hopes you mean only ONE teardrop crystal, right?
Venti: ...
Paimon: ...
Paimon, voice rising: ...RIGHT?!
Venti: Oh, relax, I was just teasing. The Crystal Teardrop that Lumine has should be plenty.
Venti: What? Did you think we had to go around Mondstadt to find three more of these in randomly chosen locations and defeat MORE bad guys, leading us to waste time on some sort of fetch quest that isn't entirely necessary to begin with and only leads to more casualties in Mondstadt City?
Paimon:
Paimon: YES?!
Venti: Well, you'd be wrong! That one Teardrop Crystal should be enough.
Lumine: Okay... give it here then...

• Lumine successfully manages to restore power to the Holy Lyre der Himmel

Paimon: Oh, thank GOODNESS, it WORKED!
Diluc: To think one teardrop was enough...
Kaeya: Sounds to me like you'd rather us find some more Fatui that's conveniently guarding one of these things instead of us having it as a one-and-done deal?
Diluc: ...if I had to choose between fighting MORE Fatui or eating a cryo slime, I'd rather be crushed to death by a meteorite.
Xiangling: Whoa. 180 much?
Diluc: What?
Jean: Haha, as expected of the Fatui's "persona non grata".
Paimon: What's a persona non... per... person... hm.

• Whatever the case, after learning Diluc is on the No-Fly list: Fatui Edition, the group heads over to Starsnatch Cliff, where Venti claims he can totally summon Dvalin

Venti: Now then, a view fit for a fated reunion. We must be prepared for a fight, yes?
Jean: Regardless of the outcome, things finally seem to be taking a turn for the better. Mondstadt has really been going through so much recently...
Diluc: And in the end, the solution to our problem was as simple as a traveler and a song.
Kaeya: Aaaaand?
Diluc: ...
Xiangling: C'mon. Don't leave him hanging.
Barbara: You have to admit that the Knights did help somewhat, Master Diluc!
Diluc: ...fine. They... MIGHT have played a part.
Kaeya: Hah.
Diluc: MINISCULE. Part. It was miniscule.
Lumine, laughing: We get it, Master Diluc. We get it.
Venti: Now then, step aside, everyone! For I, Venti, the best wandering bard of the mortal world, shall begin my performance with the Holy Lyre!

• Venti begins to play the Lyre, Dvalin descending

Dvalin: ...you have come. And yet, what has been done cannot be undone.
Venti: My friend...

• Xiangling, Paimon, and Barbara are staring in shock, Kaeya crossing his arms, Diluc, Jean, and Lumine watching silently

Venti: If that is so, then why do I see sadness in your eyes? Sadness... that speaks of your yearning for this song.
Dvalin: ...
Jean: They're... communicating--
Venti: AGH--!

• Venti is suddenly attacked by a Cryo Abyss Mage, everyone rushing to his aide
• The Abyss Mage whispers to Dvalin, tempting him...

Cryo Abyss Mage: Do not be fooled by him, o dragon. He left you to rot alone, and now he attempts to deceive you once more!

• As if in pain, Dvalin lets out a low roar

Dvalin: Bar... batos...
Cryo Abyss Mage: Let your wrath fester, for Mondstadt has already turned its back on you!

• Dvalin begins to writhe in pain, listening to the Cryo Abyss, letting it consume his thoughts

Dvalin: ...yOU!

• He growls at the group in rage

Dvalin: Barbatos... YOU WERE PLANNING THIS ALL ALONG? TO HAVE ME SLAIN BY THEM?!
Venti: No, Dvalin, please! It's not like that!

• Dvalin flies off, angered, the Cryo Abyss Mage laughing manically

Cryo Abyss Mage: The time has come for the dragon to serve its TRUE master... while you bewail your pathetic selves, and watch the world TREMBLE with FEAR!

• The Abyss Mage disappears, laughing, while Venti watches Dvalin fly off

Jean: Barbat--I-I mean... Venti, please--
Venti: Haha... looks like all of you have known my true identity for some time now, haven't you, Jean? Diluc?
Jean: I...
Diluc: ...
Venti, to Xiangling: And even a child of Liyue knows.
Xiangling: I-I'll, uh... k-keep it a secret?
Venti: Haha... your Archon is an old friend of mine, so I'll believe you.
Diluc: How's the Holy Lyre? Can it still be played, or...
Barbara: (gasps) It's... it's entirely...

• Barbara looks at the Lyre, seeing it's completely broken state

Barbara: ...i-It's...
Barbara, letting out a cry: IT'S COMPLETELY BROKEN!
Jean: B-Barbara?!
Kaeya: Right. She's basically Barbatos' number one fan...
Venti: Whoops...
Barbara: H-How are we going to explain this to the Church?!
Lumine: Maybe if you just told them that you gave it t...
Lumine, looking at Venti:
Lumine: So, maybe if you just lie a bit--!
Venti: I have no clue what you thought when you looked at me, but I am hoping it wasn't anything hurtful.
Paimon: Dvalin's in a lot of danger...
Kaeya: Yeah, but that Abyss Mage is more of a danger right now. That thing's controlling Dvalin.
Diluc, bitter: And I suppose you have a clue as to the whole Abyss mage thing?
Jean: Diluc--
Kaeya, bitterly: Diluc, as much as I'd love to argue about past transgressions, I regret to inform you that I have nothing to do with this entire thing.
Diluc: Really? Funny. I don't remember that coming out of your mouth that night when--
Lumine: Diluc, Kaeya had nothing to do with it.
Diluc: ...what?

• Lumine stood in between Diluc and Kaeya, brows furrowed

Lumine: I trust Kaeya, and I know for a fact that it's not his doing. He's just as lost as all of us are...

• Lumine looks to Kaeya

Lumine: Right?
Kaeya: ...

• Kaeya looks Diluc straight in the eye

Kaeya: Look. Let's put aside what happened that night for a few minutes. What I said or didn't say shouldn't matter if Mondstadt's in danger.
Diluc: So you're loyal to Mondstadt now?
Lumine: Diluc!
Jean: Diluc.

• Diluc stands down, looking Kaeya straight in the eye...
• ...but unlike that night, Kaeya didn't waver
• He was being serious
• Diluc scowled before backing down

Diluc: ...we dealt with an Abyss Mage not too long ago, so if you want to track other Abyss Mages down, I'll seek answers from my contacts. I've got other means for getting the job done.
Kaeya: Thank you.
Diluc: ...

• Paimon looks between Kaeya and Diluc

Paimon: Y'know, even though he doesn't seem to be on good terms with Kaeya or the Knights, he at least protects Mondstadt in his own way, right?
Venti: Ooh? Why does our little Paimon sound so doting all of a sudden?
Diluc: ...hmph.
Diluc: Just wait for my word. It shouldn't take too long.

• Diluc looks in the direction Dvalin flew off

Diluc: I'll be sure to let the Abyss Order know that their blatant disregard for Mondstadt...
Diluc: ...will NOT go unpunished.

• As Dvalin flies off, he passes by a figure that stands over a cliff, overseeing Stormterror's lair. Two Abyss Mages bow to the figure, a Cryo Abyss Mage appearing behind them as well

Cryo Abyss Mage: Your Highness... Your humble servant returns.

• The figure turns around, his blond hair waving in the wind
• He turns around, his eyes devoid of any emotion

Cryo Abyss Mage: When your homeland returns to this world... we shall revel in its glory...
Cryo Abyss Mage: Prince Aether.

• Aether looks down at them... his right eye glowing as a voice whispers into his ear

???: Your... destiny...

• He closes his eyes, his gaze focused on the blonde Traveler alongside her friends

Aether: I will do as you wish, Overseer. Make no mistake of it.
Aether: I will return to being the Traveler, just as this world's script intended.