Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This couldn't be real. No! There's no way this was happening.

Deep in the dark corners of your mind, you had always wanted to redo your life and start anew. Sure, your life was low-key depressing, but it had its perks - your mom, your handful of friends, and your fat little cat who would always happily headbutt you whenever you came home for the holidays. It's always the little things in life that matter.

Which made your current situation all the more bewildering. How in God's green earth did you end up by the seashore when you hadn't left the comfort of your room last night?

You had been determined to complete the Natlan Archon quest in the latest 5.3 update, completely throwing away your New Year's resolution of working on your project during winter break. The quest hadn't exactly thrilled you (please don't kill me for this). You had reached the part where Ororon got possessed and started tweaking, with Daddy Capitano saving Xilonen from getting punched - a scene that had you saying "Damn!" out loud. After leaving the domain, you decided to call it a day and headed off to sleep.

The sound of crashing waves made you crack your pretty eyes open. The sight of the seashore had you jumping from your position - how did you end up here wearing your Hello Kitty pajamas?

Did you get Isekai'd? That would be the more desirable option, the alternative being kidnapped and trafficked to an unknown location. You mentally ran through the unspoken rules you'd learned from reading all those otomeisekai manga and manhwa. Act out of place like a total weirdo and marry the Duke of the North? No, that wouldn't be helpful. Besides, you didn't even know what kind of world this was. Was this a slice-of-life world with cute cafes, animals, and wholesome people, or was this a Berserk-style nightmare? The mere thought sent shivers down your spine.

First things first - you needed to find shelter and make a fire to dry your clothes, now drenched and soiled by seawater and sand. Spotting some greenery about 700 meters away, you started walking. As you approached, you noticed a familiar device.

OH MY GOD!!! 

It was a teleport waypoint. The realization hit you - you were in Genshin Impact. This could have been exciting if you weren't sweating bullets. You had no combat abilities, and who knew if you could even use any of the seven elements like the traveler? You weren't even mildly athletic to begin with.

Lost in your internal monologue, you didn't notice you were already walking toward Mondstadt. Thank goodness for all those times you'd mindlessly roamed around the city of freedom instead of finishing your quests - at least you knew the city and Windrise like the back of your hand (excluding places like Dragonspine and Wolvendom).

Time to make a plan. You mentally listed your predicaments:

1. You were powerless and dressed in Hello Kitty pajamas - not exactly medieval fashion.
2. The timeline was unclear - had the traveler arrived in Mondstadt, or were they already in Natlan? Your inner protagonist wanted to arrive years before the traveler to change the storyline and save Diluc's father (keep dreaming, bitch. You're not strong enough).
3. Who could help you without making you look like a complete idiot? Survival mattered more than dignity, but you still wanted to appear demure in front of your favorite characters.
4. Money was another issue. Your lack of athletic ability ruled out the Adventurers' Guild, your poor cooking skills eliminated Good Hunter, and your fear of public speaking crossed out being a salesperson. You really were applying for internships with ultra-limited skills.

The cons far outweighed any pros (if there were any). You had two options: either march into the city like an alpha and demand information, or wait near Windrise to gather intel and confidence first (hopefully getting your own Paimon too).

Then you remembered something from all those Isekai fanfictions - THE STATS SCREEN!

After checking that you were alone, you called out, "Open Character Details."

An iPad-sized screen materialized before you.

Hello Outlander!!!☆*:.｡.o(≧▽≦)o.｡.:*☆

Nice to meet you!!! You can address me as MEL☆.

CONGRATS!!! Your prior knowledge and quick thinking have led to our fateful meeting.

Do you know the game you are in right now?

 Yes٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶             No(╥﹏╥)

Great!!! Saves me the trouble of explaining the entire lore of Genshin Impact to you.

Unlike other game support systems, MEL☆ offers a unique reward for first-time users - you can choose the game layout from games you've played before.

The kaomojis made you skeptical. Something felt ominous, and your otomeisekai manhwa knowledge didn't help. But without other options, you played along.

SELECT GAME LAYOUT:
- Honkai Star Rail
- Episode
- Hakuouki
- Genshin Impact
- Love and Deepspace
- Infinity Nikki
- Tears of Themis
- Mystic Messenger
- The Arcana: A Mystic Romance
- Love Nikki

You hadn't progressed far in most games except Genshin and HSR. Love and Deepspace wasn't your favorite, though you yearned for an endgame with Rafayel, Xavier, Zayne, or even Sylus (you didn't hate Sylus, he just seemed least compatible). Infinity Nikki or Arcana wouldn't be terrible choices either - you'd be safe despite not knowing the ending. Hakuouki was out - Chizuru wasn't your favorite MC, but you couldn't match half her capabilities. Tears of Themis seemed promising, but you hadn't played enough to be certain.

Having just finished the 3.0 Amphoreus quest in HSR, you understood its mechanics better than Genshin's. Plus, it would make you unique and catch enemies off-guard in combat.

GAME SELECTED: Honkai Star Rail 

Good choice, Outlander \(^ヮ^)/

Your base character stats appeared:

Name: (Y/N) (L/N)
Path: Harmony
[Applies buffs to allies to improve the team's combat capacities.]
Element: Quantum
[Using Quantum attacks to inflict weakness break will deal Quantum DMG and cause Entanglement, delaying the enemy's action and dealing additional Quantum DMG to the affected enemy at the start of the next turn. When the enemy is hit, this extra DMG will increase.]

Level: 21/40
HP: 1582
ATK: 1584
DEF: 1235
SPD: 136.4
CRIT RATE: 21.5%
CRIT DMG: 145.9%

Note: Fret not, outlander. The characters in the game will be following the HP range in Honkai Star Rail. The rest of the stats will vary from character to character as per their current level of strengths and weaknesses.

Note: The trace details will be revealed after passing the level 60 ascension.

So you were a support character - great, except you had no allies to support. This would be like a level 50 sparkle versus a level 90 Argenti solo boss fight. At least your stats were decent for a mid-level character (not that you knew much about meta as a casual F2P player).

'Barbietoes, guide me,' you silently prayed, approaching the Statue of the Seven at Windrise. Each step toward the city without a plan felt like a needle in your heart. 'Here goes nothing.'

The city entrance appeared just as you remembered from the game - pigeons by the lake, guards at their posts, and a gentle breeze caressing your face. Only Timmy, the pigeon-obsessed fatherless boy, was missing - probably a school day for him.

The guards didn't stop you, and inside, you witnessed the most beautiful sight of your life. The town radiated homeliness and festivity - enthusiastic shopkeepers hawking their wares while adventurers lined up at the guild, hoping to complete missions before sunset.

Taking it all in, you made your way to Barbatos's statue, hoping to avoid attention. Perhaps it was delusional, but you wished to encounter Barbietoes himself. As afternoon faded to evening, civilians gathered around the statue awaiting a performance. The gods must have pitied your situation because there, at the crowd's center, stood a young man in green, holding a lyre.

He began humming before playing the instrument.

'Barbatos, can you hear me? I know it's you.' You directed this thought-prayer with all your might, somehow sensing he could hear you.

Your intuition proved correct - the young bard, eyes previously closed, faltered momentarily and searched the crowd. When his gaze met yours, you exchanged a knowing look, a silent signal he immediately understood. Perfect - this saved you from approaching the Knights of Favonius for help.

Half an hour later, as the crowd dispersed, you remained rooted in place, desperate to speak with your potential savior.

The bard approached cheerfully, "Heya, pretty stranger. Haven't seen you around before. What brings you to the city?"

"Just passing by. I'm a traveler from afar, so it's a sort of ritual of mine to visit the town before exploring the rest of the region," you replied, maintaining a casual tone before adding, "How about you show me around Windrise? I've been meaning to visit that place." Venti nodded and led the way.

At Windrise, the bard sprawled beneath the oak tree, stretching his legs wide.

"So little stranger, how about you tell me who you really are?" He grinned mischievously while studying you with curiosity.

You delivered your prepared speech: "I'm not from this world. Actually, I used to have a life here, but I died and got reincarnated into another world. I somehow ended up in this world and possess minor memories from my previous life." Classic otomeisekai manhwa backstory.

Venti gaped at your explanation.

"That's a lot to take in, traveler, but I can sense that you are not lying. How do you know my identity?"

"I remember seeing you use your powers in my last life, although you didn't notice me back then. I was sure you were the Anemo Archon after seeing that."

"I see, hehe. I can say that your life sure is interesting, little traveler. Mind if I know your name?"

"It's (Y/N)," you said, noticing his eyes widen briefly. Something seemed off about his reaction.

"What a pretty name for a pretty person. Mine's Venti. I'm a bard."

"Yeah, I could see that," you replied, awkwardly.

"So what's your plan from here on, (Y/N)?" The question made you shrink visibly. "That's the problem. I don't know what I'm going to do from here. I was just overjoyed on seeing a familiar face that I forgot all my troubles," you admitted, channeling your most pitiful expression.

It worked - Venti wrapped an arm around your shoulders, consoling you, "If there's one thing Barbatos wouldn't do, it's ignore the worries of his cute follower. Follow me, little one; I shall shelter you from danger until you learn to stand on your own two feet."

Tears streamed down your face. God! He reminded you of your mother in her cheerful moments. "Thank you so much," you managed while wiping your eyes.

The world might have been cruel to thrust you here without warning, but with Venti by your side, you felt confident about finding your way.

You took his hand, ready to begin your new life in this unknown world.

Congrats on starting your journey, Outlander. I hope you enjoy your stay at Teyvat (⌒‿⌒).

Chapter Text

Following Venti through the winding streets of Mondstadt was surreal. The cobblestones beneath your Hello Kitty slippers (which had somehow survived your beach adventure) felt more real than any HD texture pack you'd ever installed. The evening sun cast long shadows across the city, and the smell of fresh dandelions mixed with Angel's Share's distinct aroma made you feel both at home and completely out of place.

"So, little outlander, have you had anything to eat today?" Venti's cheerful voice broke through your sensory overload.

Your stomach answered before you could, letting out an embarrassingly loud growl. "I... uh... kind of got transported here before breakfast."

"Perfect timing! I know just the place," Venti grinned, tugging you toward Good Hunter. Your eyes widened in panic—you were broke as hell in this world.

As if reading your mind, Venti waved dismissively. "Don't worry about mora. Consider it Barbatos's blessing to a lost lamb."

'Now that worries me even more,' you thought, but couldn't voice your objection out loud as you were in the most unfavorable situation out of the two of you.

The restaurant was cozy, nothing like the static background you were used to seeing in-game. Sara, the waitress, gave Venti a knowing look that screamed 'running another tab?' before leading you to a corner table.

"Two Sticky Honey Roasts and..." Venti paused, studying your face, "...make that three Dandelion Wines!"

"Sir, this is a family restaurant, and we don't serve that here. I suggest you visit Angel's Share to get wasted." Sara said, looking pretty irritated at him.

"My bad, ehe," Venti replied absentmindedly, angering both you and Sara as the lady went towards the fireplace to prepare your order.

While waiting for the food, you pulled up your stats screen, making sure to angle yourself so only Venti could see it.

"Fascinating!" he exclaimed, leaning in close. "I can sense power from you, but it is not something I have ever seen in Teyvat."

You nodded, still trying to understand your abilities. "Yes, it must be the result of knowing my previous life."

MEL☆'s screen pinged with a notification:

[New Quest Available!] Title: A Bard's Apprentice

Description: Learn the basics of survival in Teyvat under Venti's guidance. Objectives:

1. Find suitable clothing [0/1]

2. Learn basic self-defense [0/1]

3. Earn 1000 Mora independently [0/1]

Reward: Unlocks basic combat tutorial and city reputation system

For the first time since you arrived here, you became excited when you saw this notification. This place truly marked a new beginning for you. Your future was uncertain, but you could certainly enjoy spending time in the places you loved while playing the game.

First things first," Venti said, interrupting your menu reading, "we need to get you proper attire." He gestured at your pajamas, which were attracting more than a few stares. "Not that I'm questioning your choice of fashion. It does suit you very well, but attracting unwanted attention, especially when you're unprepared for this world, will lead to pretty unfavorable situations." You simply nodded along to what he said.

The food arrived, and holy archons, the Sticky Honey Roast looked way better than its icon suggested. You dug in while Venti explained his plan.

"We'll start with getting you some proper clothes from the city shops. Then, we'll work on your abilities. I'll try to assess your abilities after I see what you're capable of."

After finishing your meal (and watching Venti charm his way into another tab extension), you followed him to a small house near the windmill. It was cluttered with lutes, wine bottles, and what appeared to be a collection of poetry books. The game never went into details about this.

"Welcome to my humble abode!" Venti spread his arms dramatically. "It's not much, but it's got a spare bed and a great view of the city."

You checked your screen while he wasn't looking.

[Status Update] Living Quarters Acquired!

You can now:

-Rest to restore HP

-Change outfits (once acquired)

-Access basic cooking functions

-Set this location as a temporary waypoint

"Oh, and fair warning," Venti added with a playful wink. "I might have band practice here sometimes. Hope you don't mind a little music at odd hours!" He strummed an imaginary lyre for emphasis. "Get some rest, little outlander. Tomorrow, we start your training!"

As you settled into the spare bed, watching the windmill's shadows dance across the ceiling, you couldn't help but wonder about the weird stats system mixing Genshin and Star Rail and all the other games you had played before. Something definitely wasn't adding up. Not to mention the fact that your current situation was giving you an existential crisis. Sure, you had them way before getting isekai'd, but this took the feeling to a whole other level.

Eventually you decided to keep those worries aside. Those were tomorrow's problems. For now, you were safe, fed, and somehow roommates with the Anemo Archon himself. Life could definitely be worse.

Your screen displayed one final update before bed:

[Daily Quest Complete!] Survival Basics: Find shelter and an ally

Rewards:

-100 Adventure EXP

-50 Mora

-1x Recipe: Suspicious Sweet Madame

Relationship Level Up: Venti (Neutral → Friendly)

Keep up the good work, Outlander (≧ᗜ≦).

Continue with your hard work to unlock many surprises!!!

You closed your eyes, trying not to think about how you'd probably need those cooking lessons sooner rather than later. At least you had Venti to keep you from food poisoning yourself.

Your last thought before drifting off was a prayer that tomorrow wouldn't bring any hilichurls. You really weren't ready for combat yet, Hello Kitty pajamas or not.

MEL☆'s screen flickered one last time:

Sweet dreams, Outlander! Tomorrow's a big day (｡♥‿♥｡)

Chapter Text

The morning sun barely peeked through Mondstadt's windmills when Venti's "band practice" jolted you awake. For someone who claimed to be the god of freedom, he sure was strict about early rising.

"Rise and shine, little outlander!" he sang, quite literally, while strumming his lyre. "We have a busy day ahead!"

You groggily checked your stats screen:

[Status Effects]

-Well-rested (+10% to all stats)

-Desperate need for proper clothes (Current outfit: Hello Kitty PJs)

"Our first step is to replace whatever you're wearing with normal clothes from Mondstadt. Whatever that will attract less attention," said the bard confidently despite wearing whatever he was wearing. You wanted to point out that he would look much more out of place than the other people from the game in your world, but you were clearly not in a position to talk back to him yet.

"First stop," Venti announced, "we're visiting an old friend who owes me a favor. He has always been kind to wandering performers like myself!"

A short walk towards your destination had the both of you standing in front of Angel's Share. Venti confidently knocked on the back door of the tavern, which was closed at this early hour. After a moment, it creaked open to reveal a tall figure with striking red hair.

Your heart nearly stopped. There he was—Diluc Ragnvindr, looking younger and... happier? The perpetual frown you knew from the game was replaced by a subtle, almost peaceful expression. 

"What business do you have here?" he asked coolly, eyeing your peculiar attire with barely concealed judgment. He was still as stoic as ever, but a little less rough around the edges.

"Good morning, Master Diluc!" Venti chirped, unfazed by the cold reception. "Is your father available? My friend here is new to Mondstadt and—"

Before Diluc could retort, a warm voice called from inside.

"Now, now, Diluc. Is that any way to treat visitors?" Master Crepus appeared behind his son, his presence commanding yet gentle. "Ah, the young bard! It's been a while since you've graced us with your music."

Your eyes widened slightly—this was Crepus Ragnvindr, alive and well, his resemblance to Diluc unmistakable. This confirmed it—you really were in pre-canon Mondstadt.

MEL☆'s screen flickered:

[Timeline Confirmation] Current Period: Pre-Traveler Era

Major Event Status:

-Diluc's Vision: Acquired

-Crepus's Delusion: Not Yet Used

-Kaeya's Secret: Still Hidden

Warning: Knowledge of future events detected. Proceed with caution!

Great! This situation could either work completely in your favor or backfire on you. You could save Diluc's father and stop him from going EMO, but you had to time your actions perfectly.

From what you could remember, Crepus was killed on Diluc's eighteenth birthday while they were on a caravan to somewhere (you really couldn't recall all the details).

"Master Crepus," Venti bowed slightly. "My friend here is new to the city and in need of proper attire. I was hoping..."

"Say no more," Crepus smiled warmly. "We just received a shipment of goods from Liyue. Diluc, would you show them to the storage room?"

Diluc nodded stiffly. "This way." Despite his cold front, you could see that he was trying hard at being intimidating. Man, he sure was adorable. You really wanted him to remain this way.

The storage room was a treasure trove of fabrics and clothing. Diluc stood by the door, maintaining a professional but distant demeanor as you looked through the options.

There were too many options to choose from. As much as you wanted to try on the cute purple qipao that was displayed in the front, you really should wear something plain and comfortable.

After searching for a bit, you found a pale blue shirt and black slacks that were just your size. You admired your job interview-esque attire and headed towards the hall.

As you emerged from the storage room in your new attire, you were greeted by Venti perched atop a barrel, enthusiastically playing his lyre while Crepus nodded along appreciatively. Diluc stood nearby, arms crossed but eyes betraying a hint of interest in the melody.

"Ah, much better!" Crepus exclaimed upon seeing you. "Those clothes suit you well. Simple, practical—perfect for navigating Mondstadt without drawing unwanted attention."

Venti stopped playing and hopped down with theatrical flourish. "See? Already blending in like a true Mondstadtian! Though I must say, the attire you had sporten on earlier had a certain... exotic charm."

You shot him a glare that could have frozen wine in its bottle.

"Perhaps you'd like to stay for breakfast?" Crepus offered. "Dawn's Early Light, our morning special, is being prepared as we speak."

As you sat at the rustic wooden table, savoring bread so fresh it made your taste buds sing, you couldn't help but study Crepus. The man whose death would trigger a cascade of tragedy throughout his young sons' lives sat across from you, vibrant and alive, completely unaware of his fate.

"So, outlander," Crepus addressed you directly, "Venti says you're new to our city. What brings you to the City of Freedom?"

Venti nearly choked on his bread, clearly unprepared for direct questioning about your backstory.

MEL☆ discretely flashed options on your peripheral vision:

[Dialogue Options]

-Truth (High Risk): Explain you're from another world

-Partial Truth: Claim amnesia; remember only waking up outside Mondstadt

-Fabrication: Create backstory as traveler from distant land

-Deflection: Ask about Mondstadt's history instead

You opted for option three, putting on your most confident smile.

"My parents were adventurers hailing from Sumeru," you explained, weaving together a plausible history. "They traveled all across Teyvat cataloging plants, creatures, and customs. I grew up hearing their stories, especially about Mondstadt and its unique relationship with freedom."

You paused, adding a touch of personal aspiration to make your story more convincing. "I've always dreamed of becoming a scholar at the Academia. This journey is my way of following in their footsteps while gathering experiences for my application."

Crepus's eyes softened with understanding. "Ah, the call of adventure paired with scholarly ambition! A noble pursuit indeed. The Academia is quite selective, I hear."

"The best in all of Teyvat," you agreed, relieved that your fabrication seemed to be landing well. "They value firsthand experience almost as much as book knowledge."

Diluc, who had been silently observing, finally spoke. "And what specific aspects of Mondstadt were you hoping to study?"

Your heart skipped. You needed to sound convincing.

"I'm particularly fascinated by how Mondstadt balances freedom with responsibility," you replied thoughtfully. "In Sumeru, knowledge is carefully controlled and distributed. But here, each citizen seems to carry the weight of their own choices while still contributing to the greater community. It's a beautiful contrast."

Crepus nodded approvingly. "A thoughtful area of study. Perhaps my son could provide some insight—he's quite the embodiment of that very balance."

"Father," Diluc protested softly, though you could see he was somewhat pleased by the compliment.

"Speaking of which," Crepus continued, turning back to you, "Diluc's eighteenth birthday celebration is in about a week. It's to be quite the event—we're traveling to Dawn Winery for the occasion. Perhaps you'd like to join us? It would give you excellent material for your studies."

Venti's eyes widened, and you felt your pulse quicken. Three days until the fateful event that would change Diluc forever.

MEL☆'s interface blinked urgently:

[CRITICAL EVENT IDENTIFIED]

Crepus Ragnvindr's death scheduled: 8 days

Intervention Window: Limited

Caution: Changing this event may drastically alter timeline

"That's very kind," you managed to say, your mind racing with possibilities. "I wouldn't want to impose on a family celebration..."

"Nonsense!" Crepus waved dismissively. "The more the merrier. An aspiring scholar with adventurer's blood would bring an interesting perspective to our gathering. Besides, Diluc could use some new acquaintances closer to his age. He spends far too much time with stuffy Knights and businessmen."

Diluc's eye twitched slightly at his father's comment. "I take my responsibilities seriously."

"Too seriously, sometimes," Crepus chuckled, ruffling his son's hair—an action that made Diluc look momentarily like the teenager he actually was rather than the stoic businessman he pretended to be.

"Well then," Venti clapped his hands together, "it's settled! We'll attend the birthday celebration. But first, we have much to show our aspiring scholar around Mondstadt!"

As you prepared to leave, Crepus pulled you aside briefly. "My son doesn't make friends easily," he said quietly. "But I sense something special about you. Perhaps you'll be good for him."

You tried to keep your expression neutral despite the weight of dramatic irony crushing your chest. If only he knew what you knew—that in a week's time, without intervention, he would be dead, and his son would be set on a path of vengeance and pain.

As you and Venti stepped out into the morning light of Mondstadt, the bard's carefree demeanor slipped away.

"You know what's coming, don't you?" he whispered, suddenly serious. "I can see it in your eyes. You have knowledge of events yet to unfold."

MEL☆ displayed a warning:

[Attention]

Venti's Perception: Unnaturally High

Ancient God Status: Influencing intuition

Recommendation: Partial honesty may be necessary

You took a deep breath. Somehow, you needed to convince a literal god to help you change fate without revealing too much about your otherworldly knowledge.

"Venti," you said carefully, "what would you say if I told you we might be able to prevent a terrible tragedy? One that would change Diluc forever?"

The wind around you stirred slightly, though the air was still. Venti's eyes, suddenly ancient beyond their appearance, fixed on yours.

"I'd say," he replied with uncharacteristic gravity, "that meddling with fate is a dangerous game, even for gods." He paused, a mischievous smile slowly returning to his face. "But then again, I've never been much for following rules."

Congratulations, Outlander!!! You have asserted yourself into a major event of the storyline ૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა.

Please do be careful (｡•́︿•̀｡). Any choices you make can have a great impact on your life in Mondstadt and may even endanger your life.

On a more positive note, here are your relationship status with the characters interacted with thus far:

-Diluc: Neutral → Professionally Distant but less cautious

-Crepus: Neutral → Kindly Helpful

-Venti: Friendly → Friendly (still your only confidant!)

Life sure was about to get hectic. Your uncertain future was turning even more uncertain, but with the twink by your side, you were sure that you would turn out fine. Hopefully?

Chapter Text

The streets of Mondstadt bustled with morning activity as you and Venti wandered away from Angel's Share. Merchants set up their stalls, knights patrolled in gleaming armor, and the sweet scent of fresh pastries wafted from Good Hunter. It was surreal seeing the city alive beyond the limited interactions of the game.

"So," Venti said, twirling his lyre absently, "what exactly happens to Master Crepus? And how does it change our favorite red-haired knight-turned-vigilante?"

You glanced around nervously, making sure no one was within earshot. "We need somewhere private to talk about this."

"How 'bout we head back to our humble abode?" Venti suggested as he dragged you back to his house.

"Alright," you began, once you reached your destination. "In about a week, on Diluc's eighteenth birthday, they'll be attacked by monsters on the way to Dawn Winery. The Knights won't arrive in time, and Crepus will use a Delusion to save Diluc. They are devices issued by the Fatui that allow ordinary people to use the power from visions, but they come at a great cost."

"Go on," Venti said, intrigued. "They accelerate the body's aging, regardless of whether the person has a vision or not. However, the side effects show up way earlier for visionless people, and they pass away almost instantly."

Venti's eyes widened. "Those are incredibly dangerous for mortals!"

"Exactly. It'll kill him, and Diluc will witness the whole thing. After that..." You sighed, recalling the dark path Diluc would take. "He'll resign from the Knights, believing they failed his father. He'll become bitter, distant... nothing like the young man we just met."

"And that's what you want to prevent," Venti concluded, suddenly looking much older than his youthful appearance suggested. "Changing this single moment to save both father and son.

"Yes. But I'm not sure how," you admitted. "If we warn them directly about the attack, they might not believe us. Or worse, they might ask how I know, and I can't exactly explain that I've played through their future as a video game."

MEL☆ offered some suggestions:

[Strategy Options]

Indirect Prevention: Convince them to take a different route

Reinforcement: Ensure additional protection for the journey

Delusion Removal: Find and dispose of the Delusion before the event

Direct Intervention: Be present during the journey to help

"We need a plan that doesn't raise suspicion," you mused. "Maybe we could suggest a different route to Dawn Winery? Or find a reason for more knights to accompany them."

Venti strummed his lyre thoughtfully. "Or perhaps we simply join their party. After all, Crepus already invited us to the celebration."

"But would that be enough?" you wondered aloud. "The two of us against a horde of monsters..."

"Don't underestimate me, dear outlander," Venti grinned, a flash of divine power gleaming in his eyes. "I may not be at my full strength, but I'm still quite capable in a pinch."

You contemplated the options. "The Delusion is the real problem. If Crepus doesn't use it, he won't die. Do you know where he might keep it?"

"Delusions are rare and dangerous artifacts," Venti replied. "If he has one, he likely keeps it hidden but accessible in case of emergency. Perhaps at Dawn Winery or in his private quarters at Angel's Share."

A plan began forming in your mind. "What if we do both? Join their journey for the celebration and find a way to separate Crepus from the Delusion beforehand."

"Now you're thinking like a true adventurer!" Venti clapped his hands together. "But first, we should learn more about the current situation in Mondstadt. Knowledge is power, especially when altering fate."

Over the next few hours, Venti helped you familiarize yourself with the city's layout and key players. You learned that Jean was already a respected knight but not yet the Acting Grand Master. Lisa had recently returned from her studies at Sumeru Academia. Kaeya was Diluc's sworn brother and confidant, though he still harbored his secret Khaenri'ahn heritage.

Speaking of Kaeya," you said, remembering another critical detail, "he'll be devastated by Crepus's death too. Their relationship never recovers after Diluc learns Kaeya's true origins on the same night."

Venti raised an eyebrow. "Two brothers torn apart by secrets and tragedy? My, my, your world certainly crafted a dramatic tale for our little city."

"It gets worse," you admitted. "Diluc eventually leaves Mondstadt altogether, spending years hunting down members of the organization behind Delusions."

"The Fatui," Venti nodded grimly. "They've been increasingly active lately."

As the afternoon sun filtered through the windmill's slats, you and Venti finalized your strategy:

1. Build trust with the Ragnvindr family over the next few days
2. Locate and neutralize the Delusion without arousing suspicion
3. Join the birthday journey and be prepared to help defend against the monster attack
4. Create opportunities for Diluc and Kaeya to strengthen their bond before any revelations

MEL☆ updated your quest log:

[Active Quest]

Changing Fate: The Ragnvindr Legacy

Objective 1: Build rapport with Diluc (0/3 Trust Points)

Objective 2: Locate Crepus's Delusion (0/1)

Objective 3: Prepare for monster ambush prevention

Time Remaining: 7 days

"There's one more thing we should consider," Venti said as you prepared to leave the hideout. "If we succeed, we will be creating a future in which everything you know will be different. The ripple effects could be significant."

"I know," you nodded solemnly. "But is it wrong to want to spare him that pain? To give him a chance at happiness?"

Venti's expression softened. "No. That's what makes humans so fascinating—your capacity for compassion. Say, There's been something I have been dying to know about."

"How do you know about these events awaiting to unfold? I am aware that my curiosity will not be satisfied, but I want to hear your answer, little one." He questioned you.

You hesitated, meeting Venti's curious gaze. His eyes held the ancient wisdom of Barbatos, despite his carefree demeanor. Something about the way he was looking at you made you feel like he could see right through you.

"I..." you began, trying to find the right words. "I can't tell you everything yet, Venti. I wish I could, but there are... complications."

Venti leaned back against the wall, his expression thoughtful rather than disappointed. He strummed a gentle melody on his lyre, the notes hanging in the air between you.

"Some knowledge is like wine," he said after a moment, his voice surprisingly understanding. "It needs time to breathe before it can be properly shared. Otherwise, it might turn sour."

You nodded gratefully. "That's a good way of putting it. Where I come from, the knowledge I have... it could change things in ways I don't fully understand. I need to be careful."

"Is that why you chose this particular moment to intervene?" Venti asked, his fingers still dancing across the strings. "Out of all the tragedies in Teyvat's past and future, you chose to save Crepus Ragnvindr."

"It just felt right," you admitted. "Diluc loses so much that night—his father, his faith in the Knights, his relationship with Kaeya. It sets him on a darker path. If I can prevent that..."

Venti's melody shifted to something more hopeful. "A single pebble can change the course of a mighty river." His eyes twinkled with mischief. "Besides, who am I to question someone who meddles with fate? That would be rather hypocritical of me, wouldn't it?"

You laughed, relieved that he wasn't pressing further. "Thank you for understanding. I promise I'll explain more when the time is right."

"I shall hold you to that promise," Venti said, rising to his feet with newfound energy. "Now, I believe we have a Delusion to find and a future to rewrite! But first..." He reached for a dust-covered bottle on a nearby shelf. "A little inspiration?"

"It's barely past noon," you protested.

"The perfect time for creative thinking!" Venti insisted, already uncorking the bottle. "One small toast to our daring adventure?"

You sighed but accepted the small cup he offered. "To changing fate?"

Venti clinked his cup against yours. "To giving a father and son the chance they deserve."

As you sipped the surprisingly sweet wine, your mind was already racing ahead to the next steps of your plan. Tomorrow, you would need to find a way to get closer to the Ragnvindr family without arousing suspicion.

"You know," Venti said, interrupting your thoughts, "if we're going to be spending time at Dawn Winery, we should probably have a reason to be there."

"What did you have in mind?"

Venti's grin widened. "Well, Master Crepus is known for appreciating fine entertainment at his gatherings. And as it happens, I am Mondstadt's finest bard."

"So you're suggesting we offer our services for Diluc's birthday celebration?"

"Precisely! I perform, you assist, and we both gain legitimate access to the winery and the family's trust."

It wasn't a bad plan. Plus, it would give you both a reason to be present on the fateful day.

"There's just one problem," you pointed out. "I don't know how to play any instruments or perform."

Venti waved dismissively. "Details, details! You can help with preparations, arrangements and carrying my equipment."

You nodded slowly. "It could work. We should go speak with Crepus tomorrow."

"Excellent!" Venti clapped his hands together. "And tonight, we can gather information at the tavern. The more we know about the current situation in Mondstadt, the better prepared we'll be."

As the afternoon light began to fade, you and Venti prepared to head back into the city. Your mind was a whirlwind of plans, contingencies, and worries about changing the future.

"Venti," you said as you reached the door, "thank you for believing me, even without knowing everything."

The bard turned to you, his expression suddenly serious. "Faith is believing in something when common sense tells you not to. And uncommon sense..." His smile returned. "Well, that's my specialty."

Venti's words always brought you a sense of relief just like how your mother's words would calm you down whenever you were stressed. Man, you missed her so much.

"I think I need some fresh air to clear my head. Planning a time-altering intervention is more stressful than I expected." you said, pausing at the door,

Venti chuckled. "Take your time. I'll organize our performance materials." He winked, gesturing to the complete absence of any such materials in his humble abode. "We have much to prepare!"

You stepped out into the late afternoon sun, feeling its warmth against your skin. Mondstadt was beautiful at this hour, with golden light reflecting off the stone buildings and casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. As you wandered toward the main plaza, you tried to organize your thoughts.

The sound of approaching hoofbeats drew your attention. A small patrol of Knights of Favonius rode toward you, their armor gleaming in the sunlight. At their head, seated atop a magnificent chestnut stallion, was Diluc Ragnvindr.

He looked so different from the stern, dark-clad Darknight Hero you knew from the game. This Diluc carried himself with the proud bearing of a young knight who still believed in the ideals of chivalry. His crimson hair caught the light as he scanned the streets with vigilant eyes, a sense of purpose evident in his posture.

Before you could decide whether to approach him or not, his gaze fell on you. Recognition flickered across his features, and he raised a hand to halt his patrol.

"You're the outlander from Angel's Share this morning," he said, guiding his horse closer. "The one with the peculiar bard."

You smiled, trying to appear casual despite your racing heart. "Yes, that's me." was your awkward response.

A ghost of a smile touched Diluc's lips. "That's a diplomatic way of putting it." He glanced around. "Where is your companion now? Not causing trouble, I hope."

"Definitely not," you assured him quickly. "He's back at his place, planning our next performance."

"I see." Diluc studied you with those penetrating crimson eyes. "And what brings you to the city? I fell like I'll see more of you from now on."

Your mind raced. Of course he'd be curious about an outlander. "I was on a mission to explore the different cultures and traditions. Mondstadt has such a rich history with Barbatos and the uprising against the aristocracy."

Diluc's eyebrows rose slightly. "You're well-informed for a newcomer."

"I like to do my research," you said, internally wincing at how suspicious that sounded. You decided to change tactics. "Actually, Venti and I were hoping to perform at your birthday celebration. He's quite talented, despite his, um, aloofness."

"Is that so?" Diluc dismounted from his horse with fluid grace, handing the reins to another knight. "And what would this performance entail?"

"Music, stories, maybe some improvised comedy," you offered, becoming more animated as you spoke. "Venti can play the lyre like no one else, and I'm..." You faltered, realizing you hadn't figured out your own role. "I'm excellent at creating atmospheric environments and managing unexpected situations."

Diluc looked at you strangely. "That's an unusual skill set."

"We're quite the duo, aren't we?" you replied with a bright smile. "Part of our charm, really."

"I see," Diluc said, though his tone suggested growing suspicion. "And you approached my father about this arrangement after knowing us for less than a day."

You could feel the conversation slipping away from you. Time for a bolder approach.

"Well earning extra cash whenever possible won't hurt me." you said, stepping closer and lowering your voice," Beside that, it certainly won't be a hassle if I can see more of Master Diluc." You looked up at him through your lashes, summoning every ounce of flirtatious courage you possessed. "Is that so hard to believe?"

The effect was immediate and satisfying. A faint blush colored Diluc's cheeks, and he took a half step back, clearly caught off guard by your directness.

"That's—I'm not—" he stammered, then cleared his throat. "That's hardly an appropriate reason to—"

"Captain Diluc," called a clear, authoritative female voice, saving Diluc from his flustered response.

You turned to see a familiar figure approaching. Jean Gunnhildr strode toward you with purposeful steps, her blonde hair gleaming in the afternoon light. She wasn't yet the overworked Acting Grand Master you knew from the game, but she already carried herself with the same sense of duty and composure.

"Jean," Diluc acknowledged, his professional demeanor instantly restored, though a hint of color remained on his cheeks.

"I've been looking for you," Jean said, then noticed you standing there. "Oh, I apologize for interrupting."

"Not at all," Diluc replied quickly. "This is... actually, I don't believe I caught your name."

You introduced yourself, explaining that you were new to Mondstadt.

"Welcome to our city," Jean said with a polite smile. "I hope you're finding everything to your satisfaction."

"Very much so," you replied. "Everyone has been incredibly welcoming."

An awkward silence fell over the three of you. You couldn't help but notice how Jean's gaze lingered on Diluc, a mixture of professional respect and something more personal in her eyes. The way she stood slightly angled toward him, the subtle softening of her expression when he spoke—it was subtle, but unmistakable.

Diluc, for his part, maintained a respectful distance, but there was an easiness to his posture around Jean that suggested a deep trust and familiarity. Whether he was aware of her feelings was unclear, but the dynamic between them was palpable.

You suddenly felt like an intruder in a private moment. "I should probably go find Venti before he gets into trouble," you said, backing away. "It was nice seeing you again, Cavalry Captain. And meeting you, Captain Gunnhildr."

"Of course," Diluc said with a nod. "Regarding your proposal for the celebration, I'll discuss it with my father. Though I must warn you, he has exacting standards for entertainment."

"We won't disappoint," you promised, already planning to have Venti give the performance of his immortal life.

Jean gave you a cordial smile. "Perhaps we'll see you at the Guild tomorrow? I'd be happy to help if you need assistance navigating our city."

"That's very kind of you," you replied, genuinely touched by her offer.

As you walked away, you glanced back to see Jean and Diluc already deep in conversation. She gestured toward a document in her hand, and Diluc leaned in slightly to examine it. There was a comfortable synchronicity to their movements, born of years working side by side.

Whether Jean's feelings were simple admiration or something deeper remained unclear, but one thing was certain—they shared a bond you hadn't fully appreciated from the game alone. Seeing them together like this, young and dedicated to their city, made your mission feel even more important. You weren't just saving Crepus and Diluc now; you were preserving possibilities for all of them.

With renewed determination, you hurried back to Venti's hideout. You had trust points to earn and a future to change.

Chapter Text

The golden light of the afternoon sun had begun to fade as you made your way back to Venti's hideout. Your encounter with Diluc and Jean had left you feeling both hopeful and anxious about your mission. So much depended on earning the Ragnvindr family's trust in such a short time.

Lost in thought, you nearly collided with someone rounding the corner near the steps to the upper district.

"Whoa there!" A smooth, rich voice accompanied the steady hands that caught your shoulders. "In quite a hurry, are we?"

You looked up to find yourself face-to-face with Kaeya Alberich, his visible eye twinkling with amusement. He was donning a slightly less elaborate uniform than you were used to seeing, appearing younger and more carefree. His long indigo hair cascaded over one shoulder, and his smile held all the charm you remembered from the game—perhaps even more potent in person.

"I'm so sorry," you apologised, taking a step back once he released you. "I wasn't paying attention."

"No harm done," Kaeya replied with an easy grin. His gaze swept over you with undisguised curiosity. "You're new to Mondstadt, aren't you? I make it a point to know all the interesting faces in our fair city."

"Yes, I'm (Y/N). I am an aspiring scholar from Sumeru who came here to study Mondstadt culture," you admitted, trying to maintain a neutral expression despite your racing heart. This was Kaeya—before the tragedy, before the secrets and pain that would drive a wedge between him and Diluc.

"Ah, the scholar accompanying the bard, who paid a visit to Dawn Winery earlier today. "Father had a very amicable impression of you, I must say." His tone was light and conversational, but you didn't miss the shrewd assessment in his gaze. Even now, he was collecting information, categorising you.

You tilted your head slightly. "I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage. You seem to know quite a bit about me, but I don't even know your name."

"Where are my manners?" he said with a dramatic flourish, executing a small but elegant bow. "Kaeya Alberich, Knight of Favonius, at your service."

If the surreal feeling of being isekai'd into your favourite game had not already settled in your heart, it was now pouring down on you.

If you were in an otome game, you would've been fangirling by now. Kaeya was your first crush in the game, and he was your main for a long time before you pulled for the Raiden Shogun. Regardless, you knew that your limited acting abilities would be put to the ultimate test in this short period of time.

"A Knight of Favonios?" You asked, feigning polite interest while your mind raced. "I had the pleasure of meeting the Cavalry Captain, Diluc Ragnvindr. We met him briefly at Angel's Share. Are you acquainted with him?"

"Acquainted?" Kaeya's smile took on a mischievous edge. "I should hope so. We were raised together."

"Oh?" You widened your eyes in what you hoped was convincing surprise. "So you're... brothers?"

"Adoptive brothers," he clarified, studying your reaction carefully. "Master Crepus took me in when I was young. The Ragnvindrs have been my family ever since."

"I see. That explains how you knew about my visit to Dawn Winery," you said, trying to steer the conversation away from dangerous territory.

"Indeed. We make it a habit to share information about... unusual visitors," Kaeya replied, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. He leaned closer, as if sharing a secret. "Especially those who appear from nowhere and immediately charm their way into private audiences with Mondstadt's most influential family."

The subtle challenge in his words was unmistakable. You decided to counter with a bit of boldness.

Conversing with Kaeya was a different type of hell. Any slip-up on your part would not go unnoticed by him, and knowing this put an unimaginable amount of pressure on you. Despite the fact that you posed little to no threat to Mondstadt's citizens, you felt like a criminal being interrogated by a detective who could not get rid of his minuscule amount of suspicions about you.

You desperately wanted to end this brief interaction.

"I suppose it must seem unusual," you admitted with a small smile. "But I assure you, Sir Alberich, my interests are purely academic. Mondstadt's history of freedom and its cultural significance with the rest of Teyvat have long fascinated me."

"Hmm." Kaeya's expression was unreadable for a moment before his smile returned. "Well, far be it from me to question the motivations of a scholar. Knowledge is a pursuit worthy of respect."

"Thank you for understanding," you said, relieved at the slight shift in his demeanour.

"So, tell me about your research. Any particular areas of Mondstadt that have caught your scholarly attention?" His tone was conversational, but you recognised the continued probing.

Before you could respond, a notification from MEL☆ popped up:

 Suspicion level of Kaeya Alberich towards Outlander: decreased by 5%.

As a reward, you can now access the Level-Up Function o(≧▽≦)o.

Materials needed for (Y/N) (L/N)'s ascension:

 Windwheel Aster (5)

Leyline Branch (3).

[Collect these materials to proceed with Level-Up.]

"Actually, I've been planning to visit a few places here," you replied, surprising yourself with how quickly you improvised your plan. "I bet Windwail Highland and Wolvendom, in particular, would be a good start. I plan to go there tomorrow."

"Wolvendom?" Kaeya asked quizzically. "It is a place of great interest, for sure, but hardly the first site planned by many to visit. I was sure our adventurous scholar would be ecstatic at heading out to Dragonspine or Springvale the first chance she gets."

"I was hoping to visit Windwail and collect Windwheel Asters for my research. I plan to study the cultural impact of Mondstadt and also help a friend out with examining the state of growth of the flora in this environment." You were yapping at this point. Maybe your survival skills weren't as rusty or non-existent as you thought they were.

"Actually", Kaeya said, his expression brightening with sudden decision, "if you're interested in Windwheel Asters, I could escort you to Windwail Highland now. Besides, I know a great spot where they bloom in hundreds. The light from the sunset makes them quite the spectacular view."

You hesitated. This wasn't part of your plan, but it would give you access to the materials MEL☆ mentioned. Plus, spending more time with Kaeya might help reduce his suspicions further.

"That's very kind of you," you said. "If it's not too much trouble?"

"No trouble at all. Consider it Mondstadt hospitality," he replied with a gallant gesture toward the city gates. "Besides, I was heading out on patrol anyway."

The walk to Windwail Highland was filled with Kaeya's charming commentary about Mondstadt. You found yourself genuinely enjoying his company despite the constant awareness that one wrong word could deepen his suspicions. He was intelligent, witty, and attentive—every bit the complex character you'd admired in the game, but somehow more vibrant in person.

As you crested a hill overlooking a vast field dotted with the distinctive blue glow of windwheel asters, you gasped in genuine appreciation.

"They're beautiful," you murmured.

"Indeed they are," Kaeya agreed, watching your reaction with interest. "Mondstadt's hidden treasures."

You moved toward a cluster of the flowers, already planning how to collect them, when a sudden chill ran down your spine. Something felt wrong.

Kaeya sensed it too, his posture shifting instantly from relaxed to alert. "Stay behind me," he ordered, all playfulness gone from his voice.

From behind a nearby rock formation, shadowy figures emerged—twisted, unnatural forms that you recognised immediately as Abyss mages and their minions. Your heart raced. In the game, these were mid-level enemies, but here, facing them in reality, they were terrifying.

"Hilichurls and Abyss monsters," Kaeya muttered, drawing his sword. "This far into Mondstadt territory? Something's not right."

You watched in alarm as more creatures appeared, quickly surrounding you both. Kaeya stepped forward, sword at the ready. His movements were fluid and precise as he engaged the first wave of enemies, but you could tell he was holding back—fighting defensively rather than with the offensive power you knew he wielded with his Cryo Vision.

You realised with a jolt, 'He doesn't have his Vision yet.'

Three hilichurls charged at once, and though Kaeya dispatched them with impressive swordplay, an Abyss mage began channelling a spell from behind. Without thinking, you called out, "Kaeya, behind you!"

He spun, narrowly avoiding the attack, but more enemies were closing in. Despite his skill, you could see he was becoming overwhelmed by the numbers.

Your mind raced. You had to do something. MEL☆ had mentioned levelling up, which meant you had abilities of your own, right?

Almost instinctively, you reached within yourself, feeling for something—anything—that might help. To your surprise, you felt a strange, resonant energy waiting to be channelled.

"Please work," you whispered, and then concentrated on directing that energy toward Kaeya.

The air around you seemed to shimmer with an iridescent glow, reality itself appearing to glitch momentarily as a purple wave rippled outward. When it reached Kaeya, his movements suddenly became faster and more powerful. His blade cut through enemies with astonishing efficiency, his eyes widening in surprise at his own strength.

"What in the—" he began but had no time to finish as more enemies approached.

Congratulations, Outlander\(^ヮ^)/.

You have succeeded in using your ability on the first try.

Retrying scenario: Cancelled

'Not the time for this sh*t, MEL☆.' You cursed in your head as you tried to maintain your gaze on the scene unfolding in front of you.

You maintained your focus, directing the ripples towards Kaeya to enhance his combat capabilities. The waves created strange visual distortions around the enemies, slowing their movements as entanglement took effect. You were uncertain as to whether it was exclusively visible to you.

So absorbed were you in supporting Kaeya that you didn't notice the hilichurl approaching from your flank until it was almost upon you. You gasped, trying to back away, a wave of panic flooding your body. 

As the creature raised its club, you, instinctively, redirected your ability inward, imagining a purple aura surrounding you. Time seemed to slow as the energy surrounded you, and with a strength you didn't know you possessed, you kicked upward, catching the hilichurl squarely in the chest and sending it flying backward.

The creature crashed into a boulder and didn't rise again, but not before its club had grazed your cheek, leaving a small cut.

Before you could fully process what had happened, Kaeya had dispatched the remaining enemies and was kneeling beside you, his expression a mixture of concern and suspicion.

"Are you alright?" he asked, his gaze intense as he took in your injury.

"I'm fine," you said, your voice shakier than you'd like. "Just a scratch."

Kaeya's playful demeanor had vanished completely, replaced by something more serious and searching. He reached out, gently brushing his fingertips over the cut on your cheek. The touch was feather-light but sent a jolt through you nevertheless.

"I'm sorry," he said softly. "I should have been faster."

His face was close to yours now, the dying sunlight casting shadows across his features, highlighting the strong line of his jaw and the genuine concern in his visible eye.

"It's not your fault," you managed to say, trying to ignore how your heart had begun to race for reasons entirely unrelated to the danger you'd just faced. "There were so many of them."

"Yes," he agreed, not moving away. "And yet somehow, I fought better than I ever have before." His gaze was questioning. "Almost as if something—or someone—was enhancing my abilities."

You swallowed hard, searching for a plausible explanation. "Perhaps it was just adrenaline?" you suggested weakly.

A small smile played at the corner of his mouth. "Perhaps," he conceded, though his tone suggested he didn't believe it for a second.

Before you could respond, he stood and offered his hand to help you up. "Come. Let's collect those Windwheel Asters you're so interested in before darkness falls completely."

The tension in the air slowly dissipated as you gathered the glowing flowers together. Kaeya seemed content to let the matter rest for now, though you caught him watching you with renewed interest when he thought you weren't looking.

Suddenly, he reached past you to gather one final flower. "One more for good measure," he said, and then, to your surprise, tucked it gently behind your ear.

His fingers lingered against your hair, and his voice dropped to a near whisper. "A token of my gratitude for whatever assistance you may have provided today—intentional or otherwise."

'Isn't this moving a little too fast?' You were unsure about the progress in your acquaintanceship with Kaeya but you decided to go with the flow like the chill girl you are.

The intimacy of the gesture left you momentarily speechless, your cheeks warming despite the cooling evening air.

"I—thank you for your help today," you finally managed, very aware of how close he stood. There goes your aura of nonchalance down the drain.

"The pleasure was entirely mine," he replied, his usual charm returning, though there was something new in his gaze now—a genuine warmth that hadn't been there before. "It's not every day I get to escort such an... intriguing scholar through monster-infested territory."

As twilight deepened around you, painting the landscape in soft purples and blues, Kaeya offered you his arm for the walk back to Mondstadt. "Shall we?"

You accepted, trying to ignore the flutter in your chest as your arm linked with his.

As you began the journey back, MEL☆ dislayed a notification again: 

Congratulations!

You have earned 3/5 Trust Points from Kaeya Alberich.

[This is a significant achievement, as he is one of the most difficult characters to gain trust from.]

Keep up the good work!

Materials collected:

Windwheel Aster (5/5)

Leyline Branch (3/3)

Return to any safe location to perform Level-Up.

You smiled to yourself, trying to wave off the notification from MEL☆ as you continued walking beside Kaeya, his arm solid and warm against yours. The dying light of day caught in his indigo hair, and for a moment, all your worries about your mission faded into the background.

'Wait! Were the Fatui involved in the near-fatal encounter we had with the Abyss mages or was it something else'

At that moment, you couldn't help but stare apprehensively at MEL☆.

Chapter Text

The pale light of dawn filtered through the slats of Venti's modest hideout, casting golden stripes across your sleeping form. You stirred reluctantly, the events of yesterday still lingering in your mind. The encounter with Kaeya, the unexpected battle, and the strange new abilities you'd discovered—it all felt like a dream, but the Windwheel Asters sitting in a small clay pot by your bedside proved otherwise.

"Rise and shine, outlander!" Venti's cheerful voice cut through your thoughts. "Today's the day we infiltrate Angel's Share under the noble guise of entertainers!"

You groaned, sitting up to find the bard already fully dressed, his fingers dancing expertly across his lyre as he composed what sounded like a new melody. "Do you have to be so cheerful about potential timeline disruption?"

"Would you prefer I be gloomy? I could compose a tragic ballad about your unexpected departure from your world, your only companion being a washed-out god, and how our mission might have a 1 in 10 chance of success, if you'd like," he offered with a wink.

"No, thanks," you replied, slightly traumatised and hurt from Venti's response. Man, he could've worded it in a nicer way.

MEL☆ displayed your morning status update:

Chapter Text

The morning of Diluc's eighteenth birthday arrived with a crystalline clarity that seemed almost symbolic—a perfect blue sky stretching endlessly above Mondstadt as you paced nervously in Venti's hideout. Today was the day. The day when, in another timeline, Crepus Ragnvindr would die using a Delusion to save his son from monsters, setting Diluc on a path of vengeance and isolation.

Not this time. Not if you could help it.

"You've checked the bag three times now," Venti observed from where he sat tuning his lyre. "I doubt its contents have changed since the last inspection."

"I'm just making sure we have everything," you replied, peering inside once more. Wind Wheels Asters for decoration, a small gift wrapped in parchment for Diluc, and most importantly, several healing potions you'd purchased from a local alchemist just in case anyone gets hurt.

MEL☆'s interface flashed before your eyes:

Critical Quest Day! ヽ(°〇°)ﾉ

Quest Name: Changing Fate: The Ragnvindr Legacy

Objective 1: Build rapport with Diluc and Crepus (3/3 Trust Points) ✓

Objective 2: Neutralize Crepus's Delusion (50% complete)

Objective 3: Prevent monster ambush

Time Remaining: 0 days

Today's Weather: Clear skies (Anemo-favorable)

Warning: Significant temporal event approaching. Actions taken today will have major timeline implications

Danger Level: High

Ready to proceed, Y/N?

You'd managed to sneak back to Angel's Share yesterday while Crepus was busy with winery business, gaining another opportunity to weaken the Delusion further. But 50% wasn't enough. You'd hoped for complete neutralisation, but time hadn't been on your side, and physical intervention would've been needed for that.

Venti appeared in the doorway, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "Ready for our performance, outlander?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," you replied, getting up and stretching. "Though I doubt we'll actually be performing today."

"Perhaps not", Venti agreed, "but we still need to look the part."

He tossed you a small package wrapped in brown paper. Inside was a simple but elegant outfit in shades of purple and silver that complemented your natural colouring—professional enough for a performer's assistant, yet practical enough for potential combat.

"Where did you get this?" you asked, impressed.

"I have my ways," Venti replied with a mysterious smile. "Consider it your battle attire."

You dressed quickly, checking your appearance in the small cracked mirror propped against the wall. The outfit was perfect—fitting well without restricting movement. More importantly, it made you feel confident and prepared for the challenges ahead.

With a renewed sense of purpose, you gathered your belongings and headed with Venti toward Angel's Share. The tavern was closed to regular customers for the private celebration, but a small sign on the door announced it would reopen in the evening. You took one final deep breath and pushed the door open.

Inside, the tavern had been transformed. Garlands of fresh flowers hung from the rafters, and the tables had been arranged together with a few staff members of the tavern crying while showing off Diluc and Kaeya's childhood crayon drawings. Crepus stood behind the bar, polishing glasses with pride evident in his bearing. A few members of the Dawn Winery staff moved about, carrying trays of delicate pastries and arranging bottles of wine.

"Ah, there you are!" Crepus called when he spotted you. "Our entertainment has arrived. All prepared for the celebration?"

"Absolutely," Venti assured him with a confident bow. "It will be a day you'll never forget."

Well, it'll be a day Diluc will never forget. (Sorry)

You scanned the scene, trying to appear casual while looking for anything suspicious around the tavern. Nothing obvious stood out, but you couldn't exactly crawl underneath it without raising questions.

Diluc emerged from the tavern carrying a small chest, his red hair catching the morning sunlight. He looked pristine and professional as always, donning his usual in-game attire.

"Father, the special vintage is secured," he reported, carefully loading the chest onto the carriage, just outside the tavern.

"Excellent," Crepus beamed, patting his son's shoulder with pride. "Only the finest for your coming-of-age celebration."

The affection between them was palpable, and your resolve strengthened. This was what you were fighting to preserve—this bond that would be severed if fate took its course.

You approached Diluc, offering the small package you'd brought. "Happy birthday," you said with a genuine smile.

Diluc accepted it with a slightly awkward nod. "Thank you. You didn't need to bring anything."

"I wanted to," you insisted. "It's nothing grand, just something I thought might be useful."

Curiosity getting the better of him, Diluc carefully unwrapped the package to reveal a finely crafted leather holster for his sword, embossed with subtle flame patterns and reinforced with metal that gleamed with enchantment.

"This is... quite remarkable," he said, genuine appreciation in his voice as he examined the craftsmanship. "Thank you."

"It has enchantments for durability and quick-draw," you explained, not mentioning that you'd spent nearly all your hard-earned Mora on it. "A knight should have equipment worthy of his skill."

A small but genuine smile curved Diluc's lips—the kind of smile that would become increasingly rare after today, if events proceeded as they had in your timeline. "I'll wear it with honour."

While Diluc conferred with his father about last-minute details, you casually wandered toward the wagon, pretending to admire the craftsmanship while scanning its underside. Your heart skipped a beat when you spotted it—a small, metallic object attached to the wagon's frame, pulsing with a faint, ominous glow. It looked almost like a mechanical spider, with tiny appendages gripping the wood.

In the game's manga, there had been brief mentions of Fatui technology used to attract monsters, but MiHoYo had never elaborated on the exact mechanisms. Seeing it now, there was no doubt—this was how the ambush would be triggered.

You glanced around quickly. Everyone was busy with preparations, their attention elsewhere. Moving as naturally as possible, you knelt beside the wagon, pretending to adjust your boot while your fingers worked to dislodge the device.

The device was firmly attached; its tiny mechanical claws dug deep into the wood. You would need tools and time to remove it properly—neither of which you had at the moment.

Venti appeared at your side, his expression quizzical. "Find something interesting under there?"

"A problem", you whispered. "There's a device attached to the wagon—I think it's designed to attract monsters. It's Fatui technology for sure."

Venti's eyes widened slightly, but his smile never faltered. "Can you remove it?"

"Not without any equipment," you admitted. "And we're about to leave."

"Then we'll have to be ready when it activates," Venti decided, his voice low but determined. "Stay close to Crepus during the journey. I'll keep watch for approaching threats."

The journey began pleasantly enough. The carriage trundled along the winding road from Mondstadt toward Dawn Winery, passing through golden fields of wheat and rolling vineyards. Crepus entertained everyone with stories of Diluc's childhood, much to the young knight's embarrassment.

"And then, at five years old, he declared he would marry the statue of Barbatos because, and I quote, 'he looks pretty.'" Crepus recounted with a hearty laugh. Venti almost dropped his lyre at that.

'Damn, that's crazy! And right in front of Barbietoes himself,' was all that you could think.

"Father, please," Diluc protested, his face nearly matching his hair. Crepus continued, "And I also remember that time when you were equally enamoured with the blacksmith's daughter at age twelve."

"That was different," Diluc muttered. "I admired her sword technique."

"Is that what they're calling it these days?" Crepus chuckled as the carriage continued its journey.

Under different circumstances, you would have thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse into their family dynamic. But your attention kept drifting to the windows, watching the landscape for any sign of the impending attack.

About halfway to Dawn Winery, the carriage entered a more densely wooded area. The cheerful conversation continued, but you noticed Venti growing tenser beside you, his fingers tapping a silent rhythm against his knee—a sign he sensed something wrong.

The first indication of trouble was subtle—birds suddenly taking flight from distant trees, a stillness falling over the forest that silenced even the insects. Then came a low, rumbling sound that you felt more than heard, vibrating through the carriage floor.

Diluc noticed too, his hand moving instinctively to the sword at his hip, slowing down the carriage. "Something's not right," he pointed out.

The carriage had barely begun to slow when a deafening roar split the air. Through the window, you caught a glimpse of massive wings blotting out the sun—Ursa the Drake, right on schedule despite your efforts with the device.

The creature descended with shocking speed, talons extended toward the carriage roof. The impact came seconds later, wood splintering as the roof partially caved in. Horses screamed in terror, the carriage lurching violently as it struggled to maintain control.

"Everyone down!" Diluc shouted, drawing his sword in one fluid motion.

The carriage swerved sharply, then toppled onto its side, sending everyone tumbling against the walls. You hit your shoulder hard, pain shooting down your arm, but there was no time to dwell on it.

Diluc was the first to act, kicking open the door that now faced upward and pulling himself out. Venti followed, then turned to help Crepus climb out. At last, you scrambled out of the carriage, a bit shaken up by the first-ever large-scale conflict that you had ever witnessed in your life.

The scene outside was chaos. The horses had broken free and fled, while a staff member huddled behind a fallen tree some distance away. And there, circling above, was Ursa the Drake—a massive, serpentine creature with leathery wings and scales that gleamed like burnished copper in the sunlight.

"A drake this close to Mondstadt?" Crepus exclaimed, drawing his sword. "This is unprecedented!"

"Questions later," Diluc replied grimly, positioning himself protectively in front of your group. "I'll hold it off until reinforcements arrive."

The drake circled lower, its massive jaws opening to reveal rows of jagged teeth. It released another ear-splitting roar before diving toward you.

The drake roared again, the sound reverberating through your chest. It charged toward your group, moving with shocking speed for its massive size. Diluc rushed to meet it, his sword a blur as he engaged the monster with remarkable skill.

But even with his talent, he was one man against a creature of legend. The drake batted him aside with contemptuous ease, sending him tumbling across the ground. He recovered quickly, but blood now streaked his face from a gash above his eye.

"Diluc!" Crepus shouted, his face pale with fear for his son.

You watched in horror as the scene unfolded exactly as you feared. Crepus, seeing both his son in danger, ran towards the carriage and reached inside a box, his fingers closing around what you knew must be the Delusion.

"No!" you cried, lunging forward to grab his arm. "Master Crepus, we have to get you out of here!"

He turned to you in confusion. "Wha—"

"Sir," you pleaded, eyes locked with his. "I am aware of the self-sacrificial plan you are thinking up right now, but trust me, it's not worth it."

Shock and fear warred in his expression, but something in your desperate plea made him hesitate.

Venti stepped forward then, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by something ancient and powerful. "Allow me to assist," he said, his voice carrying an authority that belied his youthful appearance.

From seemingly nowhere, he produced his lyre and strummed a chord that resonated strangely in the air. The wind around you shifted, responding to the music in ways that defied natural explanation.

"What are you—" Crepus began, but his words died as Venti's music grew louder, the wind swirling into visible currents that began to restrain the drake's movements.

You seized the moment, focusing your abilities as you had in battle with Kaeya. Purple waves rippled from your fingertips, creating a field that enhanced Diluc as he staggered back to his feet, his movements suddenly faster, more fluid, more powerful.

The drake, partially constrained by Venti's wind, roared in frustration. It gathered itself, then released a stream of flames that cut through the air toward where Diluc stood.

With horror, you realized he wouldn't dodge in time—but Crepus saw it too. In that moment, everything slowed down. You could see the exact instant Crepus made his decision—not to use the Delusion as fate intended, but to save his son another way. With a speed belying his age, he threw himself forward, shoving Diluc aside just as the flames reached them. The fire caught Crepus's arm and side, eliciting a cry of pain as he fell to the ground.

Anger overwhelmed you—anger at the drake, at the unseen Fatui who must have planted the device, at the fate you were desperately trying to rewrite. That anger crystallized into purpose as you stepped forward, hands raised.

No. You hadn't come this far to fail now.

"Venti!" you shouted, your voice ringing with unexpected authority. "Give me cover!"

The bard responded instantly, summoning a swirling vortex of wind that temporarily disoriented the drake. Using the distraction, you sprinted toward Crepus, who lay crumpled against the broken wagon.

"Master Crepus," you said urgently, helping him to a sitting position. "Can you move?"

"My ribs," he gasped, face contorted with pain. "But I'll live. Help Diluc!"

With a quick nod, you turned back to the battle. The drake had recovered from Venti's wind assault and was now sweeping the area with a torrent of fire that forced Diluc to dive behind a boulder for cover.

Your hands began to glow with purple energy as you channeled your quantum abilities. Unlike your battle with Kaeya, this time you knew exactly what you were doing. This power was a part of you now, as natural as breathing.

"Hey, overgrown lizard!" you shouted, deliberately drawing the drake's attention.

It worked. The creature swung its massive head toward you, nostrils flaring as it assessed this new threat. Intelligence gleamed in its ancient eyes—it recognized the unusual energy you were emitting.

With a roar that made the ground beneath your feet tremble, the drake charged, its massive jaws opening wide enough to swallow you whole.

A wave of shimmering purple energy erupted from your palms, colliding with the drake mid-charge. The effect was immediate and dramatic—the creature's movements became sluggish and disjointed, as if it were moving through thick syrup. Parts of its body seemed to phase in and out of sync with themselves, the quantum field disrupting its temporal cohesion.

"Diluc, now!" you shouted, straining to maintain the field.

Diluc didn't waste the opportunity. Leaping from his cover, he unleashed a devastating series of strikes against the drake's momentarily vulnerable flanks. His sword, though not yet imbued with his Pyro Vision, still struck with deadly precision.

The drake roared in pain and frustration, struggling against the quantum field that distorted its movements. With a violent surge of effort, it broke free of your control, the backlash sending you staggering backward.

"Watch out!" Venti warned as the drake's tail whipped toward you.

You dropped and rolled, feeling the wind of the massive appendage passing inches above your head. Rising to one knee, you reached deep within yourself, drawing on reserves of quantum energy you hadn't known you possessed.

The drake reared back, drawing in a massive breath that you knew would precede another blast of fire. With no time to dodge, you focused your energy into a protective barrier, a shimmering dome of purple light materializing around you just as the flames struck.

The barrier held, though the strain of maintaining it against such raw elemental power made your vision swim and your knees buckle. As the flames dissipated, you let the barrier drop, panting with exertion.

"Are you alright?" Venti called, racing to your side.

"Fine," you gasped, though your limbs trembled with fatigue. "But we need to end this quickly. I can't keep using the quantum field like this."

Venti nodded, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "I have an idea, but I'll need you to distract it once more."

"Consider it done," you replied, gathering your remaining strength.

As Venti darted away, you faced the drake again. It was watching you warily now, having learned to respect the strange power you wielded. Blood seeped from numerous wounds on its hide, testament to Diluc's skilled attacks, but it showed no signs of retreating.

"One more round," you muttered. This time, instead of a wave, you concentrated the energy into a series of small projectiles—glowing purple spheres that orbited your body like miniature planets.

The drake attempted to dodge, but the spheres tracked its movements, impacting one after another against its armored hide. Each explosion of quantum energy temporarily destabilized the drake's physical form, causing parts of its body to flicker and distort.

While the creature was disoriented, Diluc pressed his attack from one side, his sword finding the gaps between scales with unerring accuracy. But even with your combined efforts, the drake was far from defeated. It was simply too powerful, too ancient, to be brought down easily.

That's when you noticed Venti standing atop a nearby outcropping, his lyre raised high. The air around him seemed to shimmer and bend, a visual manifestation of the elemental energy he was gathering. This was no ordinary bard performance—this was the Anemo Archon preparing to unleash his true power.

"Now!" you shouted to Diluc, pointing at Venti. Understanding dawned in the young knight's eyes, and he immediately disengaged, putting distance between himself and the drake.

You launched one final, massive pulse of quantum energy that staggered the drake, sending it reeling directly into the area below Venti's position. Perfect.

Venti struck his lyre with such force that the sound seemed to pierce the very fabric of reality. A tornado of unprecedented size and power formed instantly, lifting the massive drake off the ground as if it weighed nothing. The creature roared and thrashed helplessly as it was spun higher and higher.

"Diluc!" Venti called, his voice carrying an otherworldly resonance. "Your sword!"

In a move that would have been impossible for any ordinary human, Venti used his wind powers to lift Diluc high into the air, positioning him perfectly above the trapped drake. For a moment, Diluc hung suspended, his red hair whipping in the gale-force winds, sword raised high.

Then he descended like a meteor, his blade finding its mark directly between the drake's eyes. The impact sent a visible shockwave through the creature's body.

Seeing the shocking and colorful display from all three of you, the now-heavily injured Drake retreated into the woods to seek shelter and recuperate from its wounds.

As your quantum field dissipated, exhaustion hit you like a physical blow. Your knees buckled, and you would have fallen if Venti hadn't appeared suddenly at your side, catching you with a firm grip.

"Easy there, scholar," he murmured, his voice tight with pain from his own injuries. "That was... quite a display."

You didn't have the energy to talk back as your attention turned immediately to where Diluc knelt beside his father.

Crepus was conscious, grimacing in pain as Diluc carefully examined his burns. They looked painful but not life-threatening—nothing like the total destruction the Delusion would have wreaked on his body.

"I'm alright, son," Crepus was saying, his voice strained but steady. "Just a little singed around the edges."

"Why did you do that?" Diluc demanded, his voice cracking with emotion. "You could have been killed!"

Crepus managed a weak smile. "That's what fathers do, Diluc. We protect our children, no matter the cost."

The moment was interrupted by the sound of approaching horses—Knights of Favonius, finally arriving as reinforcements, Kaeya amongst them, who ran towards his injured father's side. You silently thanked whatever forces had delayed them; if they'd arrived earlier, events might have played out differently.

"Captain Ragnvindr!" the officer called. "We received reports of a drake in the area. Are you injured?"

"As you can see, Inspector," Diluc replied coolly, "the situation has been handled."

The inspector dismounted, surveying the scene with obvious disbelief. His eyes lingered on bloodstains on the ground that were undeniably a monster's before shifting to you and Venti.

"This... this is irregular," he stammered. "Monsters of this calibre require a full squad of Knights. How did you—"

"As I said," Diluc interrupted, "the situation has been handled. My father requires medical attention. If you would be so kind as to escort us to Dawn Winery?"

The journey to Dawn Winery passed in a blur of pain and semiconsciousness for you. The quantum powers you'd wielded had taken a physical toll, leaving you exhausted and dizzy. By the time you were settled in a guest room with a local healer attending to your injuries, evening had fallen.

"A broken rib and significant energy depletion," the healer informed you. "You're fortunate it wasn't worse. Rest is what you need now."

After she left, Venti slipped into your room, his expression concerned. "How are you feeling?"

"Like I got hit by a dragon," you groaned. "But we did it, Venti. Crepus is alive."

A smile spread across the bard's face. "Indeed. Though not without cost." His expression sobered. "Crepus is resting now, but his injuries are significant. Several broken ribs and a concussion. The celebration has been postponed, of course."

"And Diluc?" you asked.

"Currently meeting with representatives from the Knights who summoned him to the base after hearing about the attack," Venti replied. "They have the gall to order him around despite knowing what he had been through."

Too tired to respond, you let sleep claim you, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges in this world where fiction had become your reality—and where, perhaps, you could continue to change fate for the better.

Chapter Text

The Knights of Favonius headquarters loomed before Diluc, its pristine white towers catching the late afternoon sun. Under normal circumstances, he would have felt a sense of pride and duty approaching these halls, but today, he felt only a simmering rage that threatened to boil over at any moment.

His father was alive. That thought alone should have brought him joy, but instead, it only intensified his anger. Crepus Ragnvindr lay wounded in Dawn Winery, not because the Knights had failed to patrol properly, not because they'd been slow to respond, but because someone had deliberately targeted his family. He had confirmed this theory with Venti and Kaeya earlier in the day, and now, instead of investigating this attack, the Acting Grand Master had summoned him for what was described as an "urgent debriefing".

Diluc's boots echoed sharply against the marble floor as he strode through the headquarters' main hall. Knights and staff stepped aside, murmuring as he passed. News of the attack had spread quickly through Mondstadt, growing more distorted with each telling. By now, the story likely featured three drakes and a horde of hilichurls.

"Captain Ragnvindr," a voice called from his left. Hertha, one of the administrative staff, hurried to keep pace with his long strides. "The council is waiting for you in the strategy room."

"I'm aware," Diluc replied curtly, not slowing his pace.

"They've been in session for nearly an hour discussing the... incident," she continued, concern evident in her voice. "Are you alright, sir? We heard about Master Crepus—"

"He could be in better shape, but he'll recover at his own pace." Diluc cut her off, unwilling to discuss his father's condition. "Thank you for your concern."

Hertha seemed to sense his mood and fell back with a respectful nod. Diluc continued alone down the corridor toward the strategy room, steeling himself for what was to come. He had served the Knights faithfully since he was fourteen, risen to the rank of Cavalry Captain a few years later, and today, on his eighteenth birthday—the day he should have been celebrating with his father—he was being summoned like an errant squire.

The massive oak doors of the strategy room loomed before him. Diluc paused, taking a moment to compose himself, to cool the anger that threatened to consume his reason. With a deep breath, he pushed the doors open.

Inside, the council members sat around the large round table that dominated the centre of the room. Maps of Mondstadt and its surrounding territories covered the walls, with pins marking patrol routes and reported monster sightings. Acting Grand Master Eroch sat at the head of the table, his face stern beneath his silver-streaked beard. Flanking him were the other division leaders: Captain Nymph of the Reconnaissance Company, Captain Rufus of the Investigation Squad, and three senior inspectors whose names Diluc couldn't recall.

Notably absent was Kaeya Alberich, Quartermaster of the Knights and Diluc's sworn brother, who remained at Dawn Winery watching over Crepus. An empty seat—Diluc's own—completed the circle.

"Captain Ragnvindr," Acting Grand Master Eroch acknowledged with a nod. "Please, join us."

Diluc approached but remained standing. "I understand this matter is urgent, Acting Grand Master. My father requires my attention, so I would appreciate it if we could proceed without delay."

A flicker of annoyance crossed Eroch's face at Diluc's refusal to sit, but he nodded. "Of course. First, let me express the Knights' sincere regret regarding your father's injuries. We wish him a swift recovery."

Diluc gave a firm nod.

"Now", Eroch continued, clasping his hands on the table, "we need to address the drake incident. Inspector Frederica has compiled an initial report, but we require your firsthand account to complete our understanding of events."

A middle-aged woman with a severe bun rose from her seat, unfurling a scroll. "According to our reconnaissance, Ursa the Drake was spotted three days ago in the vicinity of the Stormbearer Mountains. It was not considered an immediate threat, as it showed no signs of approaching populated areas."

Diluc's jaw tightened. "And yet, somehow, this drake that 'showed no signs of approaching populated areas' managed to attack our carriage precisely on the road between Mondstadt and Dawn Winery."

"These creatures are unpredictable," Captain Rufus interjected smoothly. "We cannot anticipate their every movement."

"Cannot, or did not?" Diluc challenged, his patience fraying. "I find it curious that on the day of my father's celebration—an event known throughout Mondstadt—our carriage was attacked while travelling on what should have been the most secure road in the region."

A tense silence fell over the room. Acting Grand Master Eroch cleared his throat.

"Captain Ragnvindr, if you're suggesting negligence—"

"I'm suggesting the obvious," Diluc cut in, his voice cold. "Either the Knights failed in their duty to monitor a known threat, or someone deliberately ensured that road would be unpatrolled today."

Captain Nymph bristled. "That's a serious accusation, Ragnvindr."

"Indeed it is," Diluc agreed, meeting her gaze unflinchingly. "And one that warrants investigation. Yet instead of searching for any leads, you've called me here to, what, exactly? Confirm that yes, a drake attacked us. That yes, my father was injured? That yes, we survived despite receiving no aid from the Knights who are sworn to protect Mondstadt's citizens?"

The council members exchanged uncomfortable glances. Eroch leaned forward, his expression hardening.

"Diluc", he said, dropping the formal title, "no one is denying the gravity of what happened. But we must approach this methodically. These claims about a 'planned attack'—do you have any evidence?"

"The timing is evidence enough," Diluc replied firmly. "A drake appearing on that specific road, on that specific day? The coincidence is too great to ignore. The bard and his assistant noticed the same suspicious circumstances."

At the mention of a bard and a mysterious traveller, several council members shifted in their seats.

"Ah yes," Eroch said, a note of condescension entering his voice. "The entertainers. According to eyewitness reports, the girl displayed... unusual abilities during the confrontation with the drake."

"She saved my father's life," Diluc stated flatly. "Along with mine and likely everyone else's who was present."

Captain Rufus leaned forward, his expression sceptical. "And yet, a mere traveller—who was supposedly hired as a simple entertainer for your birthday—happened to possess combat skills sufficient to drive off a drake? A feat that typically requires a full squad of trained knights?"

Diluc felt a surge of anger at the implication. "Are you suggesting she was somehow complicit in the attack? The very person who risked her life to save ours?"

"We're not suggesting anything," Eroch intervened smoothly. "Merely noting that her capabilities seem inconsistent with her claimed goals and occupation."

"Perhaps the Knights' capabilities are what should be questioned," Diluc retorted, "given that a 'simple entertainer' accomplished what your patrols failed to prevent."

A heavy silence descended upon the room. Eroch's expression darkened.

"Captain Ragnvindr, I understand you're upset, but I must remind you of your place. The Knights of Favonius have protected Mondstadt for centuries—"

"And yet failed to arrive at the scene on time," Diluc interrupted, his patience finally snapping. "Or perhaps the Knights' priorities have shifted? Perhaps appearances matter more than actual protection?"

Inspector Frederica cleared her throat. "With respect, Captain Ragnvindr, we must consider the public reaction to these events. Citizens look to the Knights for security. If word spreads that unknown individuals had to defend against a threat of this magnitude—"

"So that's it," Diluc said, a bitter laugh escaping him. "This isn't about investigation or truth. This is about maintaining the Knights' reputation."

"The Knights' reputation is Mondstadt's security," Eroch countered firmly. "Public confidence in our ability to protect them is paramount."

"And what about the truth?" Diluc demanded. "What about acknowledging those who actually fought to protect Mondstadt's citizens today?"

Eroch sighed heavily. "The official report will note assistance from civilians in the incident. But for the sake of public morale, the official statement will indicate that the Knights of Favonius successfully drove off Ursa the Drake."

Diluc stared at him, disbelief giving way to cold fury. "And my father? Will your report mention that he was injured saving me because the Knights weren't there to protect us? Or will that also be conveniently minimised?"

"Master Crepus will receive the finest care Mondstadt can provide," Eroch said, his tone softening slightly. "Grand Master Varka himself has sent word that upon his return, he wishes to commend your father's bravery personally."

"How generous," Diluc replied, sarcasm dripping from each word. "And will the Grand Master also explain why a warning wasn't issued when a monster was spotted in the region? Or why the patrol routes mysteriously left the road to Dawn Winery unguarded today of all days?"

The council members exchanged uncomfortable glances but offered no response.

"I thought as much," Diluc continued, his anger now cold and precise. "Well, you can tell Grand Master Varka that I appreciate his concern, but I no longer require it—nor the title of Cavalry Captain."

"What are you saying?" Captain Nymph asked, alarm clear in her voice.

Diluc reached up and unpinned the insignia of his rank from his uniform. The golden emblem—a cavalry horse with wings—caught the light as he placed it on the table with deliberate slowness.

"I, Diluc Ragnvindr, hereby resign from the Knights of Favonius, effective immediately."

The room erupted in shocked murmurs. Eroch rose to his feet, his face flushed.

"This is completely unacceptable! You cannot simply—"

"I can and I have," Diluc interrupted, his voice level despite the turmoil within. "My oath was to protect the people of Mondstadt and uphold justice. It seems the Knights and I have different interpretations of what that means."

"You're making a grave mistake," Eroch warned. "Your father would want—"

"Do not presume to know what my father would want," Diluc cut him off, his voice like ice. "My family was almost killed today, and your response is to worry about public relations. The Knights of Favonius I believed in would never prioritize appearance over truth."

"Diluc, please," Captain Rufus said, speaking more gently than the others. "You're upset, and understandably so. Take some time to consider—"

"My mind is made up," Diluc stated with finality. "Dawn Winery and the Ragnvindr estate will continue to support Mondstadt as we always have. But I will no longer serve under a banner that values reputation over responsibility."

With that, he turned on his heel and strode toward the door, ignoring the protests rising behind him.

"Captain—Diluc—wait!" Eroch called after him. "If you walk out that door—"

Diluc paused at the threshold, looking back over his shoulder. "The Knights failed today—not just my father and me, but all of Mondstadt. When you're ready to acknowledge that truth, you know where to find me."

The door closed behind him with a resonant thud, punctuating the end of his career as a Knight of Favonius. As he walked through the corridors, knights and staff stared openly, word of his resignation already spreading like wildfire.

Outside, the sun was setting over Mondstadt, casting long shadows across the city he had sworn to protect. Diluc stood for a moment on the headquarters steps, feeling a strange mixture of loss and liberation. For so long, being a Knight had been central to his identity—the youngest Cavalry Captain in a century, following in the footsteps of his ancestors who had served Mondstadt with distinction.

Now, that chapter of his life was closed. Yet there was no regret in his heart, only resolve. The Knights had shown their true colors today, and Diluc refused to be part of an institution that placed politics above people.

His thoughts turned to the mysterious traveler and the bard who had fought so bravely beside him. There was more to them than met the eye—power that defied explanation, knowledge they shouldn't possess. Under normal circumstances, such anomalies would have raised his suspicions.

But they had saved his father's life. Whatever secrets they harbored, Diluc owed them a debt he could never repay.

With newfound determination, he set off toward Dawn Winery. The Knights might have failed today, but Diluc Ragnvindr had not. His father was alive, and with him, the Ragnvindr legacy would continue—not as Knights, perhaps, but as protectors of Mondstadt nonetheless.

Chapter Text

The late afternoon sun filtered through the guest room's gauze curtains, casting dancing patterns across the wooden floor as you sat on the edge of the bed, staring at your hands. The events of yesterday felt surreal—the Drake's roar still echoed in your ears, and phantom aches pulsed through your limbs where you'd channeled that strange quantum energy.

You flexed your fingers, watching as faint purple sparks flickered between them before fading. The power felt more natural now, like a muscle you'd finally learned to use properly. It should have been reassuring, this growing strength, but instead it left you with an odd sense of displacement.

MEL☆'s interface materialized before your eyes with its usual cheerful chime:

Good morning, Player! ヾ(≧▽≦)o

Yesterday's performance was exemplary! Your heroic actions have significantly altered the timeline. Ready for your next adventure?

New Quest Available: "Ripples in Time"

Accept            Decline

You waved the notification away with an irritated gesture. Something about MEL☆'s enthusiasm felt... wrong somehow. When had you stopped questioning why you were here? When had changing Teyvat's future become more important than finding a way home?

The thought struck you like a physical blow. Home. When was the last time you'd actively tried to return to your own world? You remembered those first desperate days, trying everything—clicking your heels together, wishing on shooting stars, even attempting to recreate whatever circumstances had brought you here in the first place. But when had you stopped trying?

A disturbing realization crept over you: you couldn't remember making the conscious decision to abandon your search. It was as if the desire had simply... faded, replaced by an overwhelming compulsion to alter the course of events in this world. That wasn't like you. You'd always been goal-oriented, methodical. The idea of getting sidetracked from something as fundamental as returning home was completely at odds with your personality.

A soft knock interrupted your troubled thoughts. "Come in," you called, hastily smoothing your expression into something approaching normalcy.

Diluc entered, wearing a plain white shirt along with grey trousers. Dark circles rimmed his eyes, and his usual impeccable posture had given way to something more weighted, older.

"I wanted to thank you again," he said quietly, moving to stand by the window. "And to tell you something important."

You waited, noting the tension in his shoulders, the way his jaw was set with determination.

"I've resigned from the Knights of Favonius."

The words hit you like a splash of cold water. In the game's timeline, Diluc had left the Knights after his father's death, driven by grief and disillusionment. But Crepus was alive—injured, yes, but breathing. You'd thought that might be enough to keep Diluc on a different path.

"Diluc..." you started, but he held up a hand.

"The decision was mine to make," he said firmly. "Yesterday showed me the Knights' true priorities. They're more concerned with maintaining their reputation than protecting Mondstadt's people. More interested in covering up their failures than investigating the truth."

His crimson eyes met yours, and you saw something burning there that made your breath catch—not the righteous fury of a knight, but something colder, more calculating.

"Someone orchestrated that attack," he continued, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Someone wanted my father dead, and they nearly succeeded. The Knights won't investigate properly, so I will. And when I find who's responsible..." He trailed off, but the implication hung heavy in the air.

Your heart sank. This was it—the moment Diluc stepped onto the path that would lead him to Snezhnaya, to years of hunting Fatui agents across Teyvat. You'd saved Crepus's life, but you hadn't saved his son from becoming the Darknight Hero.

"Are you certain that's the path you want to take?" you asked carefully. "Revenge has a way of consuming those who pursue it."

A bitter smile crossed his lips. "It's not revenge. It's justice. And someone needs to ensure it's served, since the Knights clearly won't."

Before you could respond, another knock came at the door. Kaeya peered inside, his usual carefree demeanor notably subdued.

"Am I interrupting?" he asked, though he stepped inside without waiting for an answer.

"Not at all," you replied, grateful for the distraction from Diluc's ominous declaration. "How is your father faring?"

Kaeya's expression brightened slightly. "Awake and complaining about being confined to bed, which the doctor says is a good sign. He wanted me to convey his gratitude—apparently, he's quite taken with his mysterious savior."

The warmth in Kaeya's voice made your chest tight. This was what you'd fought for—this relief in his eyes, the knowledge that his adoptive father was alive and recovering.

"He also wanted to formally invite you and the bard to stay at Dawn Winery as long as you need," Kaeya continued. "Consider yourselves honored guests of House Ragnvindr."

"That's very generous," you said, though something in Kaeya's expression suggested there was more he wanted to say.

Indeed, his smile faltered slightly. "There is... one concerning development. Father spoke with the doctor this morning about some numbness in his legs. The physician believes it may be related to the trauma from yesterday—possibly temporary, but..." He trailed off, unwilling to voice the alternative.

The words hit you like a physical blow. Numbness. Paralysis. In your efforts to save Crepus's life, had you merely traded one tragedy for another?

"It's my fault," you whispered, sinking back onto the bed. "I should have acted sooner, been faster, stronger—"

"Stop." Diluc's voice cut through your spiral of self-recrimination. "You saved his life. Whatever challenges he faces now, he's alive to face them because of you."

"Diluc's right," Kaeya added, settling into the room's single chair. "Do you know what Father told me this morning? He said he'd rather spend the rest of his days in a wheelchair than miss a single moment watching his sons become the men they're meant to be." His voice cracked slightly. "You gave him that chance. You gave us that chance."

Tears you'd been holding back since yesterday almost settled on your eyelashes. The brothers—so different in temperament but united in their gratitude—moved closer, offering what comfort they could to someone who'd given them everything.

"I need some air," you said eventually, wiping your eyes with the back of your hand. "Some time to think."

"Of course," Diluc said. "Take all the time you need. And remember—Dawn Winery will always have a place for you."

You nodded gratefully and made your way out of the manor, your feet carrying you automatically toward Windrise. The great tree had always been a place of peace in the game, and you desperately needed that tranquility now.

The ancient oak stood sentinel against the evening sky, its massive trunk bearing witness to centuries of Mondstadt's history. You settled against its base, closing your eyes and letting the gentle breeze carry away some of your turmoil.

This world that had once seemed like a beautiful fantasy—full of adventure and elemental magic and noble heroes—had revealed itself to be just as cruel and complicated as your own. People still get hurt despite your best efforts. Good intentions still led to unintended consequences. And the weight of trying to fix everything was crushing.

You missed your mother's presence. You missed your friends' group chats, full of memes and inside jokes, and plans for weekend adventures. You missed the simple comfort of knowing exactly where you belonged in the world.

How long could you survive in this place? How many more "quests" would MEL☆ throw at you before you cracked under the pressure?

"Quite a melancholy expression for such a beautiful evening."

You looked up to find Lisa approaching, her robes swaying in the breeze. The future librarian moved with her characteristic languid grace, but there was something sharper in her green eyes today—a perceptiveness that made you suddenly self-conscious.

"Mind if I join you?" she asked, already settling beside you against the tree. "I often come here when the library becomes too stifling."

"It's peaceful," you agreed, grateful for the company despite your desire for solitude.

Lisa hummed in agreement, tilting her face toward the sun. "It reminds me of a place I regularly visited in Sumeru, actually. A grove near the Akademiya where scholars would pretend to contemplate the mysteries of existence."

"How's Sumeru?" you asked, though you already knew from the game's lore.

"Very beautiful," Lisa confirmed with a nostalgic smile. "The architecture there is something to behold—libraries that spiral into the sky like great trees, their walls lined with knowledge from across Teyvat. And the gardens... oh, the gardens are magnificent. Flowers that bloom in mathematical patterns, trees that respond to scholarly debates with changes in their leaf color."

Her description painted such a vivid picture that you could almost smell the exotic blooms, hear the rustle of ancient texts.

"It sounds wonderful," you said wistfully.

Lisa studied you with those perceptive eyes. "You know, I've been thinking about returning soon. My time in Mondstadt has been... educational, but there are research projects back in Sumeru that require my attention." She paused, seeming to weigh her words carefully. "Given your scholarly background, you might find the place quite fascinating. The Akademiya always welcomes promising researchers, especially those with... unique perspectives."

The offer hung in the air between you. Sumeru—the nation of wisdom and knowledge, where dendro energy flowed through vast libraries and ancient trees. A place where perhaps your unusual abilities might be better understood, where you could lose yourself in research rather than constantly fighting to change the course of fate.

"I..." you started, then stopped, uncertain. Everyone here believed you were an aspiring scholar from Sumeru whose parents had been adventurers—a convenient fiction that Venti had helped establish. Only he knew the truth of your origins. Would it be wrong to lean into that lie, to escape to a place where expectations might be different?

"You don't need to decide immediately," Lisa said kindly, seeming to sense your internal struggle. "I'm planning to depart in a week. If you're interested, the offer stands."

A week. Seven days to decide whether to stay in Mondstadt and continue trying to fix every tragedy you remembered from the game, or escape to Sumeru and perhaps find a different purpose entirely.

"Thank you," you said finally. "I'll... I need to think about it."

Lisa nodded, then leaned back against the tree with a contented sigh. Above you, the first stars were beginning to appear in the darkening sky, tiny points of light that seemed to wink down at you with ancient wisdom.

"Look at that," Lisa murmured, pointing upward. "Sometimes I think the stars hold all the answers we seek, if only we knew how to read them properly."

You tilted your head back, letting the vast expanse of the night sky wash over you. Hundreds of stars glittered above, each one representing infinite possibilities, infinite worlds where different versions of yourself might be living different lives.

For now, in this moment, you didn't need to think about quests or consequences or the weight of changing fate. You could simply exist under the eternal dance of starlight, letting the present moment stretch out like a comfortable blanket around you and Lisa's companionable presence.

Tomorrow would bring new decisions, new challenges, and new reasons to doubt yourself. But tonight, beneath Windrise's protective canopy and surrounded by the gentle sounds of Mondstadt settling into sleep, you allowed yourself the luxury of simply being.

The future could wait.

Chapter Text

For the fourth time in ten minutes, you opened your travel bag and mentally cataloged its contents. Spare clothes, check. Healing potions, check. The few remaining mora you'd managed to save, check. A small journal for documenting your journey, check. The leather-bound notebook where you'd been secretly recording everything about this world that differed from the game, double-check.

A week had passed since that conversation under the stars at Windrise. Seven days of contemplation, of weighing your options, of trying to ignore MEL☆'s increasingly insistent quest notifications. In the end, the decision had been surprisingly easy. You needed space—from the weight of changing fate, from the constant pressure to fix every tragedy you remembered, from the growing suspicion that something wasn't quite right about your circumstances.

Sumeru represented possibility. A chance to blend into academic circles, to perhaps find answers about your quantum abilities, and most importantly, to step away from the predetermined narrative that seemed to be pulling you along like a riptide.

"Ready?" Lisa's voice drifted from the hallway, accompanied by the soft sound of her own preparations.

"Almost," you called back, closing the bag with finality. Whatever you'd forgotten, you could acquire along the way. The important things—your determination, your growing abilities, and that nagging sense that you needed to question everything—those traveled with you regardless of packing lists.

The walk to Mondstadt's main gates felt bittersweet. Early morning light painted the familiar cobblestones in shades of gold and amber, and the city was just beginning to stir with the sounds of merchants setting up their stalls and guards changing shifts. How strange to think that when you saw these sights again, you might be a completely different person.

At the gates, a small gathering awaited you. Diluc stood with his arms crossed, no longer wearing his Knights of Favonius uniform but instead dressed in the ugly, dark clothing that would become his signature look. Beside him, Kaeya maintained his usual relaxed posture despite the early hour, while Jean—who'd grown closer to Lisa during her extended stay—shifted nervously from foot to foot.

Your heart clenched at the sight of Crepus in his wheelchair, a blanket draped over his legs. The past week had confirmed the doctor's fears—the paralysis appeared to be permanent. Yet his eyes held the same warmth and vitality they always had, and his smile upon seeing you was genuinely bright.

"Our intrepid scholar," he called out cheerfully. "Ready to dazzle the Akademiya with your brilliance?"

Venti stood slightly apart from the group, his expression uncharacteristically serious. Something in his posture suggested he wanted a private word, and you found yourself drawn to his side.

"Walk with me for a moment?" he asked quietly, gesturing toward a small alcove near the gate's archway.

You followed, noting how the others respectfully gave you both space—though whether they recognized the request for privacy or simply attributed it to Venti's eccentric nature, you couldn't tell.

"This is a good thing," Venti said once you were out of earshot, his voice carrying that subtle undertone of ancient authority you'd learned to recognize. "Exploring new horizons, learning about yourself and this world... it's exactly what you need right now."

You nodded, though something in his tone suggested there was more.

"But above all else," he continued, turning to face you directly, "enjoy yourself. Don't let the weight of knowledge—of things that might be, could be, or should be—rob you of the simple pleasure of experiencing something new. Sometimes the greatest wisdom comes from setting aside our burdens and simply living."

His words carried the weight of millennia, the perspective of someone who'd watched countless mortals struggle with the very questions that plagued you.

"And if you find yourself in genuine danger," he added, his voice dropping to barely above a whisper, "call my name. I may not always be able to intervene directly, but I'll help as much as I can."

Before you could respond, he leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead—a blessing that felt warm and protective, like a mother's love translated into divine energy.

"Now go," he said with a return to his usual cheerful demeanor. "Have fun, learn things, and try not to overthink every single moment."

The gesture should have felt strange—accepting such maternal comfort from the wind god himself—but instead it felt perfectly natural. In this world where your actual mother was impossibly far away, perhaps it was fitting that Barbatos would fill that protective role. The realization didn't feel wrong, just... different in a way that spoke to how much you'd changed since arriving here.

You hugged him briefly, breathing in the scent of wind and freedom that always surrounded him. "Thank you," you whispered. "For everything."

The formal goodbyes with the others were warmer than you'd expected. Diluc, despite his newfound cynicism toward institutions, clasped your shoulder firmly.

"Dawn Winery's doors are always open to you," he said seriously. "Whatever path your studies take, remember that you have a home in Mondstadt."

Kaeya's farewell came with his characteristic grin and a theatrical bow. "Try not to become too scholarly and boring," he teased. "We'll need someone to keep up with our adventures when you return."

Crepus reached out from his wheelchair to squeeze your hand, his grip still strong despite everything. "Thank you," he said simply. "Not just for that day, but for showing us that there are still people in this world willing to risk everything for strangers. That's a lesson worth more than any research."

The exchange between Lisa and Jean proved to be the most entertaining part of the morning. Jean, clearly struggling with her feelings about her crush's departure, managed a formal "Good luck with your research, and... please consider returning to Mondstadt soon."

Lisa's response was to lean down and press a gentle kiss to Jean's forehead, much as Venti had done for you. The effect on the poor knight was immediate—her face flushed bright red, and she stammered something incoherent about duty and correspondence.

"Now that's what I call a proper send-off," Crepus chuckled from his wheelchair.

"Father, please," Diluc sighed, though there was fond exasperation in his voice rather than genuine annoyance.

"What?" Crepus asked innocently. "At my age, I'm allowed to appreciate romance when I see it."

Kaeya smirked. "Should we be expecting a wedding invitation soon?"

Lisa laughed, a sound like silver bells. "Oh, don't tease her too much. I'll be back before you know it—this research is temporary, after all."

With final waves and promises to write, you and Lisa set off through the gates of Mondstadt. The familiar city walls fell behind you as the road stretched ahead, winding through the rolling hills toward distant horizons.

"So," Lisa said once you'd walked in comfortable silence for a while, "our route will take us through Liyue Harbor before we head south to Sumeru. Have you ever seen the Harbor District? It's quite spectacular—nothing like Mondstadt's more modest commercial areas."

Your heart leaped at the mention of Liyue. Another nation from the game, with its towering mountains and ancient traditions. The chance to see it in reality, to walk streets you'd only navigated as pixels on a screen, sent a thrill of genuine excitement through you.

"I've heard about it," you said carefully, "but I've never had the chance to visit."

"Oh, you're in for a treat then," Lisa replied with obvious pleasure. "The architecture alone is worth the journey. And if we time it right, we might even witness one of Rex Lapis's divine proclamations during the Rite of Descension if we reach there on time. You can also see the statue of Rex Lapis, which I would say is lowkey attrac-You'll see when we get there."

The casual mention of Zhongli—or rather, his alter ego as the Geo Archon—made your pulse quicken. Would you actually get to see him? Would his statue be as hot as the one in-game? What about the other Liyue characters you'd grown fond of during your gaming sessions?

As if sensing your excitement, Lisa smiled. "I take it you're looking forward to seeing more of Teyvat?"

"Very much," you admitted, and found that it was completely true. Despite everything—the weight of changed timelines, your growing suspicion about MEL☆, the homesickness that sometimes threatened to overwhelm you—there was genuine joy in the prospect of exploration and discovery.

The road ahead wound through increasingly diverse landscapes. Mondstadt's familiar windswept plains gradually gave way to rockier terrain, with stone formations that jutted from the earth like ancient monuments. Streams bubbled alongside the path, their water crystal clear and cold enough to make your teeth ache when you stopped to drink.

Wildflowers dotted the meadows in vibrant splashes of color—sweet flowers that Lisa occasionally paused to collect, explaining their various alchemical properties as she tucked them into her pack. The attention to detail was breathtaking; every blade of grass, every cloud formation, every distant mountain peak was rendered with a reality that no game engine could have captured.

"It's beautiful," you murmured as you crested a hill that offered a panoramic view of the landscape ahead. In the distance, you could see the borders where Mondstadt's territory would gradually transition into Liyue's domain—a shift marked by taller mountains and a different quality to the light.

"It truly is," Lisa agreed, pausing to appreciate the vista. "Sometimes I forget, spending so much time with my nose buried in books. There's a different kind of knowledge to be found out here."

The afternoon passed peacefully as you walked, conversation flowing easily between you. Lisa proved to be an engaging travel companion—knowledgeable about the regions you passed through, entertaining with her stories of past adventures, and perceptive enough to give you space when you seemed lost in thought.

As the sun began to sink toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, you found yourself genuinely content for the first time since arriving in Teyvat. No urgent quests demanded your attention, no timelines needed immediate correction, no lives hung in the balance of your decisions.

For now, you were simply a traveler on an open road, heading toward new experiences with a trusted companion. The future—with all its complications and responsibilities—could wait until tomorrow.

Chapter Text

The transition from Mondstadt's rolling plains to Liyue's dramatic landscape happened gradually, then all at once. What began as gentle hills dotted with windwheel asters slowly gave way to towering stone pillars that jutted from the earth like the fingers of sleeping giants. The very air seemed different here—thicker, charged with an ancient energy that made your skin tingle.

"Stone Gate ahead," Lisa announced, pointing to where the road curved around a massive rock formation. "The official border crossing into Liyue. I hope you brought your travel documents."

Your stomach dropped. "Travel documents?" 

Lisa's laughter was like wind chimes. "I'm teasing, dear. Though Liyue does love its paperwork almost as much as it loves its contracts. You'll see."

The checkpoint itself was an impressive display of Liyue's engineering prowess—carved directly into the living rock, with intricate patterns that seemed to tell the story of Rex Lapis's legendary feats. Millelith guards in golden armor stood at attention, their spears gleaming in the afternoon sun.

"Purpose of visit?" one asked in accented common tongue, his tone professional but not unfriendly. Man, how did Traveller survive all this?

"Academic research," Lisa replied smoothly, producing a scroll from her robes. "I'm Lisa Minci, returning to consult with colleagues in Sumeru, and this is my research assistant."

The guard examined the documents with the thoroughness of someone who'd seen every type of forgery imaginable. After what felt like an eternity, he stamped the papers with an official seal and waved you through.

"Welcome to Liyue," he said with what might have been the ghost of a smile. "May Rex Lapis guide your endeavors."

Beyond the checkpoint, the landscape opened into something that took your breath away. Terraced mountainsides stretched as far as the eye could see, their golden stone catching and reflecting the sunlight in ways that made the entire region seem to glow. Ancient adeptal structures dotted the peaks—bridges that spanned impossible distances, temples that clung to cliff faces like determined flowers.

"It's like stepping into a painting," you murmured, stopping to take it all in.

"Wait until you see the harbor," Lisa said, her own voice touched with wonder despite having made this journey before. "Liyue Harbor makes Mondstadt City look like a fishing village."

The road wound through increasingly populated areas as you drew closer to the harbor. Merchant caravans passed in both directions, their wagons loaded with goods from across Teyvat. You caught glimpses of exotic spices, bolts of silk in colors you'd never seen, and mechanical devices that hummed with barely contained energy.

Street vendors had set up stalls at every major intersection, hawking everything from jade ornaments to steaming bowls of noodles that smelled like heaven and looked suspiciously spicy. The cacophony of voices bargaining in multiple dialects created a symphony of commerce that was somehow both chaotic and harmonious.

"The merchant culture here is... intense," you observed as a particularly enthusiastic vendor tried to interest Lisa in what appeared to be a mechanical bird that could deliver messages.

"That's putting it mildly," Lisa replied, politely declining the bird with practiced ease. "Everything in Liyue can be bought, sold, or contracted for. It's quite fascinating from an anthropological perspective, though exhausting if you're not prepared for it."

As if summoned by her words, a young merchant approached with a bright smile and an armload of jewelry. "Beautiful ladies! You must be travelers—I can see it in your eyes, that hunger for adventure and discovery! Allow me to offer you these exquisite jade bangles, crafted by the finest artisans in—"

"Not interested," you said quickly, having learned from Lisa's example.

The merchant's smile never wavered. "Ah, but you haven't heard my price! For two such discerning customers, I could offer a special rate—"

"Still not interested."

"Perhaps a contract then? A small agreement that—"

"No contracts!" you and Lisa said in unison, causing the merchant to finally retreat with a philosophical shrug.

"Rule one of traveling in Liyue," Lisa said with amusement. "Never agree to anything that sounds like a contract unless you've read all the fine print. Twice."

The road crested a final hill, and suddenly Liyue Harbor spread out before you like something from a fever dream. The city cascaded down multiple levels of terraced cliffs, connected by staircases, bridges, and what appeared to be mechanical lifts. Ships of every size and description crowded the harbor, their masts creating a forest of wood and sail that stretched to the horizon.

But what caught your attention as you explored the various plazas and districts was the several statues of Rex Lapis positioned throughout the harbor. Each one was carved from gleaming golden stone, depicting the Geo Archon in flowing robes, seated in a pose of regal authority with legs spread in a confident stance, holding what appeared to be a perfectly geometric cube in one hand.

"Oh," you said weakly as you paused before one particularly well-positioned statue.

"My thoughts exactly," Lisa murmured, and when you glanced at her, you caught her staring at the statue with an expression that could only be described as appreciative. "The craftsmanship is... quite remarkable."

"Very remarkable," you agreed, trying to sound scholarly rather than like someone who was definitely not thinking impure thoughts about a religious statue. "The way they captured the...anatomical proportions... is very... detailed."

"Extremely detailed."

You both stood there for a moment, ostensibly admiring the artistic achievement while internally dealing with the fact that a stone carving had no right to be that attractive.

"We should," Lisa said eventually, "probably head into the city."

"Definitely. Academic purposes and all."

"Of course."

Neither of you moved for another thirty seconds.

Finally, Lisa cleared her throat and led the way down the winding path toward the harbor proper. You followed, pointedly not looking back at the statue and definitely not thinking about how this was only day one in Liyue, and you were already having inappropriate thoughts about carved stone.

The harbor district was a sensory overload of the best kind. The smell of fresh seafood mingled with exotic spices and the salt breeze from the ocean. Street performers entertained crowds with displays of martial arts and musical performances that incorporated traditional Liyue instruments you'd only read about. Children darted between the stalls, playing games that seemed to involve a lot of shouting and running.

You were so absorbed in taking everything in that you almost missed her—a flash of blue-white hair disappearing around a corner, accompanied by the distinctive jingle of bells. Your heart leaped as you caught a glimpse of curved horns and an official-looking uniform.

Ganyu. It was definitely Ganyu, looking exactly like her game model but somehow more real, more present. She was walking with purpose, a stack of documents clutched in her arms, occasionally pausing to speak with merchants or other officials.

"Is that who I think it is?" Lisa asked quietly, having noticed your sudden attention.

"The Qixing's secretary," she continued. "I've heard she's incredibly dedicated to her work."

You wanted to observe her a bit more, but something held you back. Maybe it was the memory of Venti's advice about enjoying the journey without overthinking everything. Maybe it was the knowledge that Ganyu was clearly busy with official duties. Or maybe it was the growing awareness that these were real people living real lives, not NPCs waiting for your interaction.

"Let's continue exploring," you said finally.

Lisa nodded approvingly. "Wise. We have our own schedule to keep."

As you continued through the harbor, your eyes couldn't help but wander, hoping to catch glimpses of other familiar faces. Part of you wondered if you might spot a certain harbinger with his distinctive orange hair and combat-hungry grin, but you quickly squashed that thought. Childe would only be about seventeen right now, probably still training in the Fatui ranks or might be just receiving his rank as a Harbinger, and definitely not someone you should be thinking about in that context. Besides, you were sure you wouldn't be able to handle the Fatui in your current state, which was weak both mentally and physically.

The same went for any number of other characters you wanted to meet in this game. It was a sobering reminder that your life, as of now, wasn't an otome or an adventure game—these were real people, with real lives and real ages, and you needed to respect that reality even if your gamer brain occasionally forgot.

You were so lost in this internal reminder about appropriate behavior with respect to your fake background that you didn't notice the figure barreling toward you until it was too late.

The collision was spectacular. One moment you were walking peacefully beside Lisa, the next you were flat on your back with someone small and energetic sprawled across your chest. A cascade of dark hair fell around you like a curtain, and when you looked up, you found yourself staring into the brightest, most mischievous brown eyes you'd ever seen.

"Aiyah!" the girl exclaimed, scrambling to sit up without actually getting off you. "Sorry, sorry! I was chasing this raccoon—did you see it? It was the most beautiful shade of gray, almost like a tiny piece of the afterlife fluttering around the harbor, and I just had to—oh."

She paused mid-ramble, tilting her head as she studied your face with sudden interest. She couldn't be more than fifteen, with an expressive face that seemed incapable of hiding any emotion. Everything about her radiated energy and barely contained chaos.

"You're not from around here," she observed with the confidence of someone making a profound deduction. "I know everyone in the harbor, and I definitely would have remembered someone who looks like they've seen a ghost. Or several ghosts. Are you okay? You look a little pale."

"I'm fine," you managed, acutely aware that she was still sitting on you in the middle of a busy street while curious onlookers gathered. "Just, um, surprised."

"Oh! Right!" She bounced to her feet with more energy than any one person should possess, then offered you a hand up. Her grip was surprisingly strong. "I'm Hu Tao! Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, at your service! Well, hopefully not immediately at your service, since you seem pretty alive, but you never know what tomorrow might bring!"

Your brain short-circuited. Fifteen-year-old Hu Tao was somehow even more chaotic than her adult counterpart, if such a thing were possible. Her energy was infectious, her smile bright enough to power the harbor's lighthouse, and her complete lack of personal space awareness was both endearing and overwhelming.

"This is..." you began, then realized you had no idea how to finish that sentence.

"Unexpected," Lisa supplied helpfully, looking amused by the entire situation. "I'm Lisa, and this is my research assistant. We're just visiting the harbor."

"Ooh, research!" Hu Tao's eyes lit up with interest. "What kind of research? Please tell me it's something interesting and not just boring stuff about trade routes or tax collection. Though if it is about tax collection, I know where they keep all the really old records—some of them are so old they're practically antiques! Speaking of antiques, did you know that—"

"Miss Hu Tao," a voice called from nearby, and a harried-looking older man approached. "There you are. An investor is looking for you—something about inventory management?"

Hu Tao's expression immediately shifted to one of theatrical despair. "Ugh, inventory. The most boring possible use of a perfectly good afternoon." She turned back to you with renewed brightness. "Well, mysterious research lady, it was lovely meeting you! If you need any funeral services while you're in town—or just want to hear about the fascinating history of Liyue's burial customs—you know where to find me!"

She bounded away with the same chaotic energy she'd arrived with, leaving you standing in the middle of the street feeling like you'd just been hit by a very friendly tornado.

"Well," Lisa said after a moment, "that was certainly an introduction to Liyue's local culture."

You looked around at the bustling harbor, the towering statue of Rex Lapis, the mountains that surrounded everything like protective arms, and felt a smile tugging at your lips despite everything. Maybe this journey would be different from your time in Mondstadt. Maybe you could just be a traveler here, experiencing new places and meeting new people without the weight of destiny pressing down on your shoulders.

"Come on," you said to Lisa, hefting your travel pack. "Let's find somewhere to stay for the night. Tomorrow we can start being proper tourists."

As you walked deeper into the harbor district, the sounds of commerce and conversation swirling around you, you felt something you hadn't experienced in a long time: pure, uncomplicated excitement about what came next.

Chapter Text

Finding accommodation in Liyue Harbor proved to be an exercise in advanced economics and contract negotiation that made your head spin. Every innkeeper presented you with documents that seemed to require legal expertise to decipher, complete with clauses about damages, noise ordinances, and something called "spiritual liability coverage."

"What exactly is spiritual liability?" you asked the third innkeeper of the evening, staring at a contract that was longer than some academic papers you'd written.

The middle-aged woman behind the counter looked at you like you'd asked what color the sky was. "Protection against any supernatural incidents that might occur during your stay. Vengeful spirits, restless ancestors, adeptal manifestations—you know, the usual."

"The usual," you repeated weakly.

Lisa placed a gentle hand on your arm. "Perhaps we could find somewhere simpler?"

Eventually, you settled on a modest guesthouse near the harbor's edge, run by an elderly man who seemed more interested in sharing stories about his fishing days than drowning you in paperwork. The rooms were clean, the price was reasonable, and most importantly, the contract was only two pages long.

"First time in Liyue?" the innkeeper asked as he handed you the keys, his eyes twinkling with amusement at your obvious relief over the simplified paperwork.

"Is it that obvious?" you replied.

"The way you stared at Mrs. Chen's liability clauses gave it away," he chuckled. "Don't worry, you'll get used to our ways. Liyue folk just like to be prepared for every possibility. Better safe than bankrupt, as we say."

Your room was small but comfortable, with a window that offered a spectacular view of the harbor. As the sun set, the water transformed into a canvas of gold and crimson, with the silhouettes of ships creating an intricate pattern against the twilight sky. In the distance, Rex Lapis's statue seemed to glow with an inner light, and you definitely didn't spend several minutes admiring the way the fading sunlight accentuated the carved muscle definition.

Definitely not.

"Admiring the architecture again?" Lisa's voice came from the doorway, accompanied by the knowing smirk that suggested she'd caught you in the act.

"It's culturally significant," you protested, turning away from the window with what you hoped was scholarly dignity. "The statue represents centuries of artistic tradition and religious devotion."

"Mmhmm. And the fact that the artist was clearly very... attentive to anatomical detail is purely coincidental."

You decided the best response was to change the subject entirely. "Did you want to explore the night market? I heard there are food stalls that stay open late."

Lisa's laugh followed you out of the room.

The night market was a revelation. Lanterns strung between stalls created pools of warm light in the darkness, and the air was thick with the aroma of sizzling meat, exotic spices, and something sweet that made your mouth water. Street vendors called out in melodic Liyue dialect, their voices blending into a symphony of commerce and community.

"Try this," Lisa said, appearing at your elbow with a steaming skewer of something that looked suspiciously like the sweet madames from the game. "The vendor says it's a local specialty."

You bit into it cautiously and immediately understood why people traveled across continents for Liyue cuisine. The meat was tender and flavorful, with a sauce that managed to be sweet, spicy, and savory all at once.

"This is incredible," you mumbled around the food, already looking around for the vendor to buy more.

"Pace yourself," Lisa advised with amusement. "We have several more stalls to visit, and I'd rather not carry you back to the inn because you've eaten yourself into a food coma."

The evening passed in a blur of culinary discoveries and cultural observations. You watched street performers demonstrate martial arts forms that seemed to make the very air shimmer with elemental energy. Children ran between the stalls playing games with carved jade pieces that glowed faintly in the darkness. Elderly men sat at low tables, engaged in intense games of strategy while nursing cups of tea that smelled like flowers and wisdom.

But as you walked through the night market, you couldn't shake the feeling that something fundamental had just shifted. MEL☆'s behavior was becoming increasingly aggressive, almost possessive. The cheerful, helpful assistant persona was developing cracks, revealing something underneath that you weren't sure you wanted to examine too closely.

Back at the inn, you lay in bed staring at the ceiling while the sounds of the harbor drifted through your window. Ships creaked against their moorings, night fishermen called to each other across the water, and somewhere in the distance, a street musician played a haunting melody on what sounded like a traditional erhu.

You found yourself thinking about home—not just your original world, but the concept of home itself. Mondstadt had started to feel like home, with its familiar faces and predictable challenges. But lying here in Liyue, surrounded by new sights and sounds and possibilities, you realized how much you'd been constraining yourself to fit into the role MEL☆ seemed to want you to play.

What if you didn't go back? What if you continued to Sumeru with Lisa, lost yourself in academic research, and let the timeline sort itself out? The thought was both terrifying and liberating.

A soft knock at your door interrupted your brooding. "Can't sleep either?" Lisa's voice came from the hallway.

You opened the door to find her in a simple nightrobe, holding two cups of tea. "Thought you might like some company," she said. "The innkeeper recommended this blend for travelers—supposed to help with anxiety and homesickness."

You accepted the cup gratefully, inhaling the soothing aroma of jasmine and something floral you couldn't identify. "Thank you. I was just... thinking."

"About home?" Lisa settled into the room's single chair, cradling her tea with both hands.

"Among other things." You sat on the edge of the bed, considering how much to reveal. "Do you ever feel like you're being pulled in different directions? Like everyone expects you to be someone specific, but you're not sure that's who you really are?"

Lisa was quiet for a long moment, her green eyes thoughtful in the lamplight. "I think that's the eternal struggle of anyone with power," she said finally. "People see what you can do and immediately start planning how you should use those abilities. They rarely ask what you want for yourself."

Her words hit closer to home than she could know. "How do you handle it?"

"By remembering that ultimately, the choice is mine," Lisa replied with a smile that was both gentle and steel-edged. "Others can have opinions about my life, but I'm the one who has to live it. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do—for yourself and others—is to disappoint their expectations in favor of your own happiness."

You sipped the tea, letting her words settle in your mind like stones finding their places at the bottom of a clear pool. Outside, the harbor continued its nightly rhythm, eternal and reassuring.

"Lisa?" you said eventually.

"Hmm?"

"Thank you. For bringing me here. For giving me the chance to see something different."

Her smile was warm and genuine. "My dear, the journey is just beginning. Tomorrow we'll explore more of the harbor, maybe visit some of the historical sites. And then, if you're still interested, we'll continue south toward Sumeru."

As she gathered up the empty tea cups and prepared to return to her own room, you felt something settle in your chest—a sense of purpose that had nothing to do with quests or timelines or predetermined destinies.

"Lisa?" you called as she reached the door.

"Yes?"

"I think I'd like that very much."

After she left, you returned to your window, looking out over the peaceful harbor. The statue of Rex Lapis stood sentinel in the distance, and for once, you managed to appreciate its cultural significance without getting distracted by the sculptor's attention to detail.

Tomorrow would bring new experiences, new choices, and probably new complications. But tonight, you were simply a traveler in a foreign land, drinking good tea and making your own decisions about where your path would lead.

It was a good feeling.

The morning sun painted Liyue Harbor in shades of gold and amber as you and Lisa made your way through the bustling streets. Your plan was simple: explore the historical district, visit a few temples, and maybe find some authentic Liyue tea to take back to Mondstadt as gifts. What you hadn't planned for was getting completely turned around in the maze-like streets that seemed to follow no logical pattern whatsoever.

"I'm starting to think this city was designed by someone who really enjoyed confusing visitors," you muttered, staring at a street sign written in traditional Liyue characters that might as well have been ancient hieroglyphics.

"The layout follows the old feng shui principles," Lisa explained, though she looked equally perplexed by your current location. "Something about harmonizing with the natural flow of geo energy. Very spiritually significant, I'm sure, but absolutely useless for navigation."

You had stopped at the intersection of three winding streets, none of which looked familiar, when a cultured voice spoke from behind you.

"Lost, I presume?"

You turned to find a tall man approaching with an amused smile. He was impeccably dressed in earth-toned robes that screamed expensive tailoring, with long dark hair pulled back in a neat ponytail. Everything about him radiated quiet confidence and old money elegance, from his perfectly straight posture to the way he moved with unhurried grace.

More striking were his eyes—golden amber like polished jewels, sharp with intelligence and something deeper, more ancient. They were eyes that had seen things, knew things, held secrets behind their polite warmth.

Your brain short-circuited. Even without the distinctive Archon outfit, even four years younger than his game appearance, there was no mistaking those features. This was Zhongli. Rex Lapis himself, in his mortal guise, standing close enough that you could smell the subtle fragrance of osmanthus and sandalwood that clung to his robes.

"We're looking for the historical district," Lisa said smoothly, apparently unaware that she was asking directions from a literal god. "I'm afraid we've gotten a bit turned around."

"Ah, a common predicament," the man replied with genuine sympathy. "The streets here can be quite confusing for newcomers. I am Zhongli—might I offer my assistance? I happen to be quite familiar with the area."

Zhongli. He'd introduced himself with his mortal name, which meant he was already living among humans, already playing the role of the learned gentleman rather than the divine ruler. The implications made your head spin.

"That's very kind of you," you managed, proud that your voice came out relatively steady despite the internal chaos. "I'm... we're researchers. Academic types. We wanted to see some of the older historical sites."

His eyes lit up with interest, and you realized you'd said exactly the right thing. "Researchers! How delightful. It's rare to meet fellow scholars who appreciate the importance of preserving historical knowledge. What particular period interests you?"

"The founding of Liyue," Lisa replied, apparently sensing your temporary loss of speech. "The early interactions between mortals and adepti, the establishment of trade relationships... that sort of thing."

"Fascinating!" Zhongli's enthusiasm was infectious. "You've come to precisely the right person. I've made something of a study of that era myself. In fact, I was just heading to visit one of the lesser-known historical sites—a small shrine that predates the harbor's construction. Would you care to join me?"

You exchanged a glance with Lisa, who shrugged with the expression of someone who'd learned to go with the flow. "We'd be honored," you said.

As Zhongli led you through the winding streets with the confidence of someone who'd walked them for centuries, he began to speak about Liyue's history with the kind of intimate detail that only came from firsthand experience.

"This particular street," he said, gesturing to a narrow alley lined with traditional tea houses, "was once the main thoroughfare for merchants coming from Mondstadt. The cobblestones you're walking on were laid during the third renovation of the harbor, approximately eight hundred years ago. If you look closely, you can still see the mason's marks on the older stones."

You found yourself hanging on his every word, not just because of who he was, but because his passion for the subject was genuinely captivating. He spoke about historical events like personal memories, described ancient figures like old friends, and pointed out architectural details with the eye of someone who'd watched them being built.

"You seem to know an unusual amount about this period," Lisa observed with academic curiosity. "Are you a professional historian?"

"You could say that," Zhongli replied with a mysterious smile. "I work as a consultant for various organizations in the city. My... background gives me access to some rather unique historical records."

The shrine he led you to was tucked away in a quiet corner of the older district, surrounded by ancient trees whose roots had grown around and through the stone foundations. It was small and unassuming, the kind of place that tourists would walk past without a second glance.

"This shrine," Zhongli said, his voice taking on a reverent tone, "was built to honor the contract between Rex Lapis and the people of Liyue. Not the grand political contracts that established the nation, but something more fundamental—the promise of protection in exchange for devotion, of guidance in exchange for trust."

He approached the altar with obvious familiarity, straightening some offerings that had been disturbed by the wind, lighting incense with practiced movements. You watched, fascinated by this glimpse of the Geo Archon tending to his own shrine without anyone knowing who he really was.

"The carvings here," he continued, running his fingers over stone reliefs that depicted scenes of ancient Liyue, "tell the story of the early days, when gods walked openly among mortals and contracts were sealed with blood rather than ink."

"It's beautiful," you said softly, and meant it. There was something deeply moving about this hidden piece of history, preserved and maintained by the very god it celebrated.

"Few people visit here anymore," Zhongli admitted with a touch of melancholy. "The newer temples are grander, more impressive. But I find there's something to be said for these quiet places where history speaks in whispers rather than shouts."

Lisa was examining the stone carvings with scholarly interest, making notes in a small journal. "The artistic style is consistent with the early Liyue period, but the execution is remarkably sophisticated. Whoever carved these was a master of their craft."

"Indeed," Zhongli agreed. "The artist was... quite talented. They understood not just the technical aspects of stone carving, but the deeper meaning behind the scenes they were depicting."

You spent the better part of the morning at the shrine, listening to Zhongli's encyclopedic knowledge of Liyue's history and watching the way his eyes lit up whenever Lisa asked particularly insightful questions. There was something deeply satisfying about seeing someone so clearly in their element, sharing knowledge with people who genuinely appreciated it.

"I hope you don't mind my asking," you said during a lull in the conversation, "but you speak about these historical events with unusual... intimacy. Almost as if you were there personally."

Zhongli's smile was enigmatic. "In a sense, I suppose I was. When one studies a period intensively enough, reads enough firsthand accounts, examines enough artifacts... one begins to feel a personal connection to the events. History becomes less about facts and dates and more about understanding the people who lived through those times."

It was a masterful deflection, technically truthful while revealing nothing. You couldn't help but admire the skillful way he navigated questions that could expose his true nature.

"That's a beautiful way to put it," Lisa said warmly. "Too many historians treat the past like a collection of dry facts rather than the lived experiences of real people."

"Precisely!" Zhongli's enthusiasm was infectious. "Take this shrine, for example. The historical records tell us it was built in the year—well, the dates are somewhat disputed depending on which calendar system you use. But what the records don't capture is the reverence of the craftsmen who carved each stone, the devotion of the people who brought offerings, the sense of connection between mortal and divine that permeated every aspect of its construction."

As the morning wore on, you found yourself relaxing despite the surreal nature of the situation. Zhongli was surprisingly easy to talk to—intelligent without being condescending, knowledgeable without being boastful, and genuinely interested in both your research and Lisa's academic background.

"What draws you to study the relationship between mortals and adepti?" he asked as you sat in the shade of an ancient tree, sharing tea he'd produced from somewhere in his robes.

"The complexity of it," you replied, thinking carefully about your words. "It seems like it would have been such a delicate balance—divine beings trying to guide mortals without controlling them, mortals seeking help without losing their independence. I imagine there must have been misunderstandings, conflicts, moments where good intentions led to unintended consequences."

Something flickered in Zhongli's golden eyes, too quick to interpret but deep enough to suggest your words had struck a chord. "A very astute observation," he said quietly. "Yes, I imagine there were indeed such moments. The road to wisdom is often paved with well-intentioned mistakes."

The conversation was interrupted by the distant sound of bells from the harbor, marking the midday hour. Lisa stretched and gathered her notes, clearly preparing to leave.

"We should probably start thinking about lunch," she said. "And I wanted to visit the market this afternoon to pick up some supplies for the journey to Sumeru."

"Ah, you're continuing south," Zhongli observed. "How wonderful. Sumeru is a remarkable place—the Akademiya houses some of the finest scholars in all of Teyvat. I'm certain you'll find your research there quite fruitful."

As you prepared to part ways, he reached into his robes and produced a small carved stone medallion. "A small token," he said, offering it to you with a slight bow. "Consider it a charm for safe travels and successful research. The stone comes from these very mountains—it's said to bring clarity of thought and protection from deception."

The medallion was beautiful, carved with intricate patterns that seemed to shift in the light. More importantly, it felt warm in your palm, humming with subtle energy that made your quantum abilities resonate in response.

"Thank you," you said, genuinely touched by the gesture. "This is beautiful."

"Think nothing of it," Zhongli replied with that mysterious smile. "It was a pleasure meeting fellow scholars. Perhaps our paths will cross again someday."

As he walked away, moving with that same unhurried grace through the winding streets, you found yourself staring after him with a mixture of awe and disbelief.

"Interesting gentleman," Lisa commented, apparently oblivious to the fact that you'd just spent the morning getting a personal history lesson from the Geo Archon himself. "Quite knowledgeable. And rather handsome, if you don't mind me saying."

"Very handsome," you agreed weakly, clutching the stone medallion like an anchor to reality. "Very... knowledgeable."

The rest of the day passed in a blur of market stalls and tourist sites, but your thoughts kept returning to those golden eyes and that enigmatic smile. You'd met Rex Lapis—not in his divine form, not in some grand moment of revelation, but as a simple scholar sharing his passion for history with fellow researchers.

It was, you reflected as you fell asleep that night, probably the most normal extraordinary experience you'd ever had. And somehow, that made it all the more magical.