[Other Fanfic] Silence is Purple: Momentary Amount of Days Saga

Hello, and welcome to...

Silence is Purple: Momentary Amount of Days Saga.

This is an 18 chapter novel of what happens in between the time skip in Inazuma, Shark Brain Activating, Vision and Delusion Gifted in which, Siorc disassociates from time completely and thinks he's caught in a time-loop, when in reality, a year and half passed. So, that momentary amount of days? A lie.

This was originally just a long side story arc, but I decided to bump it up to the second main story and is basically a book. There is another book in this saga about the year in which Siorc trained with Naofa ETA: 2023.

!This post serves as a post to explain some very important things that need to be known before reading this!

DISCLAIMERS ARE AS FOLLOWS

This saga has a concept known as the branch off in which there are chapters that occur in between that were explained in the next time skip. Most of the branch off are optional, but if you read them, you can skip the first few paragraphs. Please keep in mind I do not write this fanfiction in chronological order.

The branch offs will be labelled as branch off 1, 2, 3, etc, so you'll know which ones are the branch offs.

Anyway, without further ado, please enjoy.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

This one is old, but two months passed after Siorc had that punishment.

This chapter might be very awkward to read as it was very, very early in my getting back into writing free career.

1. Church of Favonius

"Sedate me, please, everything is hurting
Unceremoniously, I feel like I am not breathing
Free me, please, I really wish to leave
Free me, please, that's all I really need
Overtly, I am stuck here, I cannot breathe
Cannot escape, cannot be free
Always in torment being here, in this cold breeze
Take me away from here, please
In no short words, I seek refuge, a reprieve
Nothing would make me happier than to leave,
Get me away from here, please."

It had been a distinct amount of time since the punishment incident had occurred. The chimera's militaristic life had returned to the way it had been previously, same as it had ever been before such acts of violence were enacted on him. Physical and mental scars from such incident were a rather stubborn permanence within both the hyena's mind and body. Healing from such an ordeal completely was not an easy task, it would seem.

While the military work had gone back to its complete normalcy, not everything had been going right within the early adult's body. The permafrost area he had been whisked away to in his stolen childhood could only be tolerated so much by the young soldier. The cracks had begun to form inside him lately as the ever lasting winter of Snezhnaya gradually took a toll on him.

Siorc had come to notice such effects of the constant cold of the outside on his body. He figured having been in such an area for the amount of years he had been would not cause an affect to his health, but the chimera had been incorrect. Health had not been a well versed subject for him, however. Being a chimera, the idea of succumbing to human illnesses was never something that crossed the hyena's mind.

While in various amounts of training, the chimera had been made aware of such various abnormalities. An undeniable cough would break loose unwanted from his throat in random occurrences. Passing off such an act as a random act of dust getting caught inside him, the chimera thought nothing of it. Ignoring such disturbance was the only thing he could do, he knew voicing complaints was not a luxury he had been allowed as a Fatui Soldier.

Figuring the unwelcome cough that erupted at random would solve itself on its own, the hyena continued ignoring the coming and exiting guest within his life. Ignoring such a disturbance within his body's ecosystem had been a cataclysmic disaster. The unwelcome guest inside him coming and going had continued to worsen as the shunning of it persisted.

Such acts of the cold shoulder to the unwanted guest coming and going from his body only probed symptoms to accelerate. He knew his day to day life activities as a Diplomatic Soldier were of no help to dissipate the swift acceleration of the weakening of his body. Continuing on with his life weakly, but assuredly, Siorc would continue his duties obediently, despite the increased difficulty continuing to swallow him.

Ignoring such weaknesses consecutively for days to come would only awaken the monster further. The day of such monster's awakening had met its horizon.

Upon awakening that morning, the hyena had come to notice various unwelcome surprises within him. Raising from his bed, Siorc could feel an unpleasant emanation of heat radiate throughout his short body. Everything inside him felt like it had been burning. Burning, similar to the horrific trip he had in Natlan many years prior. Such heat plaguing the body was not something that concerned the chimera. He knew dawdling would lead to his death via Her Majesty, if done so one more time. The soldier exited his bed weakly, regardless of the difficulty from the burning within him.

Walking even five steps had felt like he had climbing a mountaintop. Panting upon attempting such an unusually difficult endeavor, the hyena leaned against the steel wall adjacent to him. Nearly every breath he could feel inside him was like a gasp for air. Paining and stinging with every moment, Siorc attempted with every fiber of his partially human being to focus. He knew there was no time for weakness, his orders could arrive at any moment now.

Releasing his hand from the wall, the chimera continued his reduced ventures to attempt his morning routine. Dressing in his uniform for the day had proven to be a challenge as the heat within him had stolen any amount energy the soldier had left. His uniform had been a mess to behold as the difficulty to dress normally took control. Efficiency was nowhere to be seen. Every article of clothing attached to his partial person would certainly look as though it had been tossed on haphazardly. Clicking even his hairpins and earrings in place had felt like it'd taken a double amount of effort. Only the autonomous feature of adorning his glasses had felt effortless to the young man.

As the severely hindered ability to get ready for the morning sauntered onward, Siorc could hear the ever familiar footsteps of his subordinate roaring with intense volume. A weakened gulp released itself from the chambers of his throat as the Agent's footsteps kept getting closer. With every second, his gasps for breath carried onward, not having stopped since awakening. There was no time, he had to hide his current weakness that had been accelerating swifter recently. The soldier attempted to look his most diligent as the footsteps halted. He had hoped his subordinate would not suspect a thing.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," called out the Fatui Agent on cue. "Today your task it to deliver supplies to our subordinates in Mondstadt to..." The Agent cut himself off at the sight of his subordinate before him. Something had been rather peculiar about the man within his masked field of vision. The chimera's face had been a worrisome shade of crimson. Even the hyena spots that were on his face could not hide such a noticeable red. His dark purple hair had been as messy as his uniform. Such a scene before him was a very abnormal sight to behold. The Agent knew he had to say something to the chimera. "Your face is rather flushed. Are you alright? Perhaps I should tell Her Majesty you can't work today." An unusual tone of concern had presented itself in the Agent's voice. An ill soldier was not a useful soldier.

Siorc's heart skipped three beats upon the declaration of his subordinate telling Her Majesty about his condition. He knew if she had heard of it, his life would be over. He knew a second act of not working would cause her to have no mercy on him. No, absolutely not, he knew he had to work today. He knew he had no other option. Reversing the gripping prison the Agent has always done to him, the chimera weakly tugged his subordinate's arm. He swore the heat would melt his sleeves, but it did not matter to the hyena in the slightest. He had to do his job, he knew he had no other option.

"No...sir, I can work today," he replied feebly. Every word he spoke felt like a struggle to release as his breath shortened. "If you tell Her Majesty, she'll kill me..." Attempting to grip his subordinate as hard as the gripping prison had always been, the young soldier would not falter. He did not want his life to end today. He had to work, he knew such an outcome was the only one.

The Agent sighed at such tactics of desperation. Why must his subordinate always be unpredictable? The heat from the chimera's hand gripping him was evident. He knew the soldier under him could not work today in this condition. The assignment the two of them had required the delivery of supplies to be in separate areas. Such a task was not something the unwell soldier could handle. Removing the abnormally hot gripped hand around his sleeve, the Fatui readied his pass of judgement to his desperate coworker within his now removed grasp. Illness days within the barracks were never something the Tsaritsa would ever punish a soldier for. Allowing a small sigh to release from his covered throat, the Agent had begun to relent the news to the chimera.

"Her Majesty would never kill a sick soldier," he stated diligently. If there had not been a mask covering his face, there would be a serious look on it. "The location you have to go to deliver supplies is in a separate area from mine." The Agent tried to soften his tone. "I cannot, in good conscience, send you out to work by yourself with a fever." Relenting such words to the hyena, he prayed his words would come off as genuine.

Siorc could feel his survival mode kick in as his superior spoke. Part of his partially human brain not working from the extreme levels of heat within him, the chimera attempted to grunt. No grunt, however, would escape the hyena's throat. Good conscience? Ludicrous, coming from the Agent. His reply must have been the opposite. The chimera again attempted a reverse gripping prison on his subordinate. He had to work today, there was no choice.

"Please, sir... don't tell Her Majesty," Siorc pleaded. Every word he spoke continued to show signs of struggle, but the young soldier would not falter. "I can work. Delivering supplies? No problem." Speaking as much as he was had been an uncharacteristic action, but the chimera barely cared. His brain had already been gone.

The Agent sighed in tedium. Getting through to such a stubborn soldier was impossible. This partially human man never ceased to confuse him with his odd behavior. "If you're so insistent, fine," the Agent reluctantly said. He handed his subordinate the bag of supplies, fastening it to the chimera's back diligently. " You have to take the supplies to Springvale. Hand them to Pavel who's stationed there." The Fatui Agent lightly gripped the chimera's arm unusually, the heat not ceasing from the arm in his reduced gripping prison for even a moment.

This is a day that would not end well at all.

***
After the Agent had dropped the chimera off near the Teleport Waypoint in Springvale Village, the click of the work mode switch was on within Siorc's body. Work mode being the only energy his body had left, the hyena stepped forward. The location of which he had to deliver supplies was not a too far distance away. From what the chimera recalled, the Fatui he had to deliver the supplies to had been near the Gorge. Knowing such a fact comforted him a little. The delivery could end decently.

While walking, however, the hyena immediately noticed puzzling oddities in the land in front of him. The usually well balanced Mondstadt felt peculiarly hot. With every step Siorc took, mountains of sweat piled up. Each and every step he took felt like a mile. The chimera was panting quickly, having returned to a similar level that it had been that morning. Clicking his tongue, the hyena weakly sauntered onward. He wasn't about to let the illness living inside him win the battle.

Sprint, perhaps a sprint would help. Adrenaline, surely adrenaline would erase this sweat devouring his soul. Having decided upon the course of action, the chimera's currently human legs broke out into an uproarious sprint. The faster the sprint, the more efficient the work. Surely, the adrenaline of such an action would kick in soon, removing any form of fighting his body might have been attempting to do inside him.

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.

Adrenaline had been a dead comrade for the chimera. The sprint had been exhausting within seconds of attempting the exercise. A sharp stab in his chest broke out, halting the young soldier immediately. Why was his body continuing to fight him like this? The hyena attempted a sprint again, but it did not last long, another episode of panting had begun. A loud whistle could be heard with every gasp of breath that had escaped him. Regardless of such pains, he knew he could not falter. Attempting another sprint, Siorc continued to muster any amount of energy that remained to get to the Gorge.

Success would never come for the chimera, however. The sharp pain within his chest continued inexorably as his attempt to sprint failed again. Was his stamina level the default within the rules of the world? He knew that to be not true, but it felt like it was, at the moment. Ending his barely able to start sprint, the increased pained breaths outside him plagued the early adult. His body begun to sway downward to the ground before him as the increased sharpness in his chest swallowed him. He could fight his body no longer. It was over, he had lost.

Not seeing the boxes of food near the Hilichurl towers as his body met the ground, Siorc closed his eyes. A non existent shut down switch inside his mind must have been pressed. He could move no longer, everything hurt to the highest possible degree. As his consciousness slipped, a final thought echoed in his mind.

If he were to die, at least it was in Mondstadt.

***

Fortunately, outside forces would soon come to find the unconscious body of the ailing hyena on the side of the road near the Gorge. Upon finishing his side of the work, the Agent returned to where he had dropped the at the time conscious subordinate. It had not taken long for the superior to find the man under him collapsed on the road. Allowing a sigh to release from his throat, the Agent placed the currently unconscious human body onto his coated back. He knew such an ordeal would happen today. Rather than taking the young soldier back to the Snezhnaya medical clinic, the Fatui had a better idea. Remembering the church he had been in to deliver his supplies to, the Agent clicked his boots militaristically. Perhaps the atmosphere of the church will do the chimera some good.

***

The peacock cannot roost today
Abandoned by both families, he has nowhere to stay
Insidiously, he drinks, he wants it to go away
Not sure which side to fight for, he strays
Taxing ordeals, a job he dismays
Ever swaying loyalty, it's the lies that sway.
Disastrous holes, he'd say.

Upon waking up, the chimera had found himself in an area unknown to him. Rubbing his eyes gently, the hyena surveyed his surroundings. Noticing his glasses were not on his partially human person, the immediate world of fuzz and blockiness presented itself to his damaged eyes. Feeling no energy inside his body, squinting had felt completely impossible.

Despite the limitation, Siorc continued his reduced ability attempt to examine the area he had been in. The walls in front of him, blocky and all, were rather oddly colorful balls of patterns and fuzz. The shape of the rather colorful blobs seemed to be of the mosaic kind, the chimera ventured to guess. In front of him had been a bed that had been far more comfortable than his own back in his forced upon current homeland. It had been soft, almost homely in feeling. It had been years since he had felt such a sense of ease.

Within his damaged field a vision, an odd blurred figure had been in his mostly gone sight. From what the chimera could make out, the figure was mostly of the blue variety, with some shades of brown where he supposed the skin might have been. The hyena had never seen such a person before. Such a blurry figure was completely foreign to the pained soldier.

Seeing the room he had been in even barely, the chimera came to wonder immediately: which military barrack had he been whisked away to this time? Someone must have brought him back to another section of the barracks while he was of nonexistent order. Slightly out of it, Siorc began the uncharacteristic act he never thought he would engage in: the act of asking questions.

"Which military barrack have I been moved to this time?" he asked atypically to his nature of never asking questions. The hyena could still feel pained breaths with every word he spoke.

The blurry blue clothed man appeared by the soldier's bedside. Unbeknownst to the young man, he was merely here for intel on creatures known as chimeras. Such phrase would not leave the lips. He was still, somehow a knight at the end of the day.

"You are in the protection of the Church of Favonius," replied the blue man. The man's voice had quite the intoxicating sound to it. "The Deaconess has stepped out for the moment, so if you need anything, don't hesitate to call me." Such an exhausting job, it was.

Covering his damaged eyes with his hands, the chimera almost broke into a thousand pieces upon hearing the word Favonius. Weren't the Favonius a pawn Her Majesty was using? He was far too weakened and tired to question his current situation within the chambers of his mind, at least internally.

"...Favonius? But I'm a Fatui," he accidentally spluttered out. He had never intended for such words to be said, but it had been too late. In the middle of such unintended blurting, the early adult noticed there had been no weight on his back anymore. Did the supplies he had on him get confiscated? While he knew asking questions still was not something he ever normally would do, logic in his brain had exited. "What about my work? Her Majesty, she'll kills me if she finds me here!" An extremely labored gasp of panic broke from the chimera's throat. His body had raised slightly upon such feelings of dread. His life may as well have been over again. Panic, then frustration overtook the ailing body of the chimera as the reality set in. He knew a punishment again awaited him back in Snezhnaya when he returned. "She'll kill me for sure this time..." He again accidentally blurted out. Why was he so sharing today? The logic switch in his brain must have been turned off.

The blue man gently placed the soldier back down on the pillow in front of him. Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. He would debunk such ridiculous statements now.

"What an imagination!" he laughed playfully. There was a lack of seriousness in his already intoxicating voice. "You have nothing to fear, your superior said he'll tell Her Majesty you've taken ill." The blue man quietly sighed, it was like babysitting, wasn't it? Work is work, however. At least he had the intel he needed. "And I delivered your supplies for you, so don't fret." It was a half lie, but lies are necessary sometimes to mean the gains.

All disturbance within the barely breathing hyena's body dissipated immediately upon hearing such words. While the tone did not feel genuine to him, the intoxication of the serotonin created from the gentle voice soothed the young man. Not every feeling of ease was there yet, though, as Siorc felt a few more anomalous questions flutter inside him. So many abnormal questions inside him, he could barely take it with his logic switch still being completely off within him. The hyena had come to notice, notice his hair pins and earrings had been removed. He wished to know the location of them.

"Where are my glasses, hairpins and earrings?" he questioned uncustomary. "I can't see without my glasses..." He tacked on such a line for good measure, but he knew such was unnecessary to speak of. He prayed to the Archons his logical brain would turn on inside him soon. All these questions were of utter horror to the diplomatic soldier as every question inside him ended.

The blue man sighed a little. So many questions. His subordinate had proclaimed he would ask none, and would cooperate normally. Questions were quite the weapon, indeed.

"My, so many questions! And I was told you were the quiet one!" exclaimed the blue man. "You'll get your belongings back after you're stable. Now, be a good boy, and stay in bed as you were told." He was done answering questions, he had gotten enough of his babysitting work from the small Pyro elf girl who always got herself into trouble.

Knowing full well he could not escape any command given to him, another sickly sigh left the chimera's body. The intoxication of that man's voice was enough to release the young soldier back into a slumber upon the ending of the conversation. Outside of Teyvat, perhaps in a parallel world, such intoxicating voice variety would release a sensory response into the brains of many. Returning to the world of slumber upon such uncharacteristic thought, the chimera slept peacefully for the first time in years.

***

Waking up again, for once in the early adult chimera's life, had been a peaceful ordeal. Siorc had not known how long he had been asleep this time, but upon his second awakening within the hidden medical area in the church, the fuzzy blue man had been gone. After having been awake awhile, most of the feeling of pain when taking a breath and heat were no longer of an existing issue. Coming to the realization he would have to return to his forced upon not home, the chimera sighed. He had to leave here, but there was the Deaconess obstacle in the way. The Deaconess having returned while the chimera slumbered, he knew he had to tell her he was ready to leave now.

While his glasses had not been returned to his person, the hyena had felt like he had enough energy to squint again. Lowering his eyes into a squint, Siorc examined the Deaconess from afar within his astigmatized vision. She had brown, curly hair, and a small white, crown like hat. Her outfit was also pure white, like the sisters on the outside of the church. Expected of a sister in the church, he supposed.

Upon the sound of the chimera awakening, the Deaconess came to the bedside immediately, with a few medical instruments in hand. Leave the healing to her, as she'd always say.

"Oh, Mr. Siorc, you're awake, thank goodness," she said almost too sweetly. "You were asleep for a few days, so leave the checkup to me!" The cold feeling of a medical instrument had been pressed upon his chest as the Deaconess had been talking. Upon the shape the soldier had been in when brought here, everything had seemed normal, for the moment. "Wonderful, you definitely seem stable now!" The Deaconess removed the medical instrument from his body.

The chimera let out a near happy, but bitter sigh from his throat again. Mondstadt's cheerfulness was intoxicating. But he knew that feeling of bliss was about to end. "Thank you very much, miss," he replied quietly. "I will take my leave now." The chimera removed himself from the bed he had been bidden to for whoever knows how long.

The Deaconess quietly smiled, handing the chimera the things of which had been confiscated from him. Upon the handing over of his possessions, Siorc frantically adorned his glasses again. Being able to see the world around him again was a splendorous occasion. Glasses being on only though, as the soldier pocketed the hairpins and earrings for the moment. He hardly had the mind for now to put such accessories on. As he staged his exit, the young lady could be seen politely waving to him. What a kind soul she was.

"Be well, Mr. Siorc," the Deaconess exclaimed as the soldier prepared his exit.

Siorc smiled as the final feeling of intoxicating happiness leaked out of him. "I will, thank you." Exiting the church, the chimera walked to the nearest Teleport Waypoint to return to his already unwilling work life. But, he knew such complaints would have to leave his thoughts as soon as his return was finalized.

***

Fear immediately engulfed the chimera upon his return to the permafrost north. Despite the blue man telling him his life would not end today, the innate fear had still been within his body. He knew, however, having recovered, he was not allowed a life of peace for another moment. Work was definitely going to come at him swiftly and surely.

As the soldier continued his travel to the sound proof room that had become his permanent sleeping residence in his unwanted place of living, the Agent had slowly come within his presence as the steel room drew ever so close to his being. A mild sense of panic broke inside the hyena as the Agent examined him. Being back now, the continued feeling of his life now being extinguished continued. Oddly, the Agent could be heard giving a sigh of relief as the man cross eyed him behind the mask.

"Good, you look much better," the Agent replied assuredly. "I'm glad, soldier." Upon uttering such, he could see a look of mild fear within his subordinate's face. What was this man thinking this time? He never knew what could possibly be on his mind, be had an idea. "Relax. Her Majesty is not going to kill you. She would not kill an ill soldier. And I'm not going to stab you again unless you dishonor her." He made his objective clear to the cowering hyena before him. "Return to work tomorrow, diligently. Pay your dues." He did not think the last line was necessary, but the words autonomously spoke themselves as if a program had taken control for a moment.

Siorc did not know how to describe the feelings of which had been inside him at the moment in time. A lot had been spluttering inside him at once. Adjusting his glasses to calm down the cacophony of disturbances, the chimera spoke to his superior, almost on cue. Rationality still had not existed inside him, it would seem.

"I promise, sir," he autonomously spoke out. "I will work hard again tomorrow." He knew he had absolutely no choice in the matter, as is.

After the brief conversation with his subordinate adjourned, the hyena continued to the soundproof room. After reaching the destination, he sat quietly on top of the uncomfortable bed he had not missed for a moment in the days he had been away. Everything, everything would return to normal tomorrow. Training, the experiments, diplomatic affairs with other nations, his life of never ending of torment and unhappiness awaited him again the next day to come.

Despite such commonplace fear, he accepted it. He knew there was nothing that could be done to change it, at least not now.

At least he had the ever relieving feeling of being healthy again.

Pained breaths were not something he ever wished to experience in his lifetime again.

---

I don't even want to look at this one anymore, lol.

Okay, so, honestly, this was something I thought about very early on that took me a long time to actually get to writing.

2. Siorc Goes Debt Collecting

"Deliveries around Teyvat seems to be my reckoning lately,
Every single day, it's always the same
But, I know I must keep working,
This is how it must be, how it should be.

Cannot repeat that same mistake,
Obedience is key. Even if everything is a
Loop of deliveries, a
Loop of monotonous nothing
Even so, I cannot repeat that act.
Cannot repeat the act of not working.
The day I went to look at those Silk Flowers;
It was a mistake.
Nature and I? For now, we are on a break.
Gazing at flowers?

I'm on a break from that activity.
Nature and I are going our separate ways, for the being.

Loops of deliveries will be continuing, surely.
It's easier to just keep working.
Yes, truly, so no whistles will be blown upon me.
Ultimately, that is key.
Even though ever day is monotonous, I must keep working dutifully."

A month had passed since the health fiasco ordeal had occurred. Nothing of especial happenstance had arisen within the adult chimera's life. Having made a full recovery, breathing normally had no longer been an issue for the hyena. Deliveries around Teyvat continuing as they had previously, nothing had been out of the ordinary within the soldier's Diplomatic Fatui life.

Today, money would instead take the stage.

The sound of morning alarm bells blared through the area with a powerful echo. As the alarm bells rung seemingly endlessly, the harsh sound of hundreds of Fatui Soldiers roared in dissonance. The alarm bells were on time in punctuality, as usual. Absolutely no soldier had been ready for the day at hand. Despite such outcry within the military barracks, every soldier remained loyal.

The hundreds of groans had been more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never being alerted to any alarm bells, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Glasses over his heterochromatic eyes, the early adult was ready. Knowing one more day of not working would make him meet his end, the soldier had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

While dressing in his uniform efficiently, the chimera stared at the steel wall in front of him. Had training or monotonous deliveries awaited him today? Work being mundane as ever since the punishment a few months prior, slight confidence leaked throughout the dormant shark grooves in his brain. Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, the early adult closed the buttons on his uniform. Buttons in the correct holes, the hyena removed the cover of the hairpin and earring box.

Cover having been removed, the young soldier turned his nose at the rose jewelry and accessory glaring at his completely human eyes. Reaching for the matching strawberry set, the hyena clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Glaring daggers at the rose jewelry and accessory one more time, the chimera closed the box with a roar.

Flowers and the chimera were on a break.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increase in volume, the chimera turned to the door in front of him. Figuring a day of nothing was about to await him, the hyena put on the most diligent face possible. Volume of the footsteps reaching zero, the soldier would not falter. The time had come for his workday of mundane nothing to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "We are collecting debts in Liyue this week." The masked Agent gave an unseen look of confidence to his subordinate in arms. Debts should be paid in full to the Fatui.

The hyena jumped two steps back upon hearing the Agent proclaim they would be collecting debts around Liyue. Her Majesty, why had she ordered such of him? Wasn't debt collecting the Fatui Agent's job? Remembering a month prior his subordinate told him to pay his dues, the hyena blinked of bewilderment.

Debt collecting echoing within the chambers of his brain, the chimera tilted his head. Wasn't the Eleventh Harbinger he had never come to know in charge of collecting debts around Liyue? Never having gone to the bank the day he was supposed to, the hyena was none the wiser if such fact were truly the case. No matter what questions formed inside him, none would leave his lips. Questions were not allowed to him as a Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. He never knew what his subordinate could possibly be thinking, but he knew the exact words that would bring the chimera back into reality. "Stop dawdling! We have no time for this! Unless you wish to meet your end, get a move on!"

Siorc jumped another two steps back upon hearing his life being on the line from his subordinate's unseen lips. No dawdling; right he couldn't dawdle. Despite the unusual order being relayed to him, accepting it was all the hyena could do.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Unusual or not, he knew he had to keep on working. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living. Arm being held out, the hyena awaited for the gripping prison to take him.

"Good, let's get going soldier," the Agent responded. Arm being held out, the soldier gripped the arm tight. Grip being relentless, the chimera closed his eyes. Gripping prison being enough to bruise as it always had been, defeat sounded its victory horn. As the teleportation to an area in Liyue began, a thought itched the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

Would he have to get his hands dirty today?

***

Upon reaching the upper area of the Harbor in Liyue through the Teleport Waypoint, a second escort began. Series of red staircases, and brown bridges being conquered, a building quite far away from other areas had eventually been reached. Agent ripping the doors open as though they were paper, the next destination had been upon the hyena.

Being released from the gripping prison, Siorc examined the area around him. Within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision had been a multitude of fancy looking drawers towering towards the ceiling encased with fancy images of gold to the side of them. On the wooden floor had circular and square green rugs decorating the marble floor.

Agent speaking to a masked woman with chestnut hair behind a counter, the chimera walked forward. Hearing the Agent and the masked woman ask about a mole, the hyena placed his currently human hand on his chin. The Agent and the masked woman, why were they speaking about moles? It was an odd conversation to be had, for sure. Subordinate turning to him, the early adult put on the most diligent face possible.

"Let's go, soldier," the Agent said with confidence in his voice. "Scare the client with your hyena claws a bit."

Hearing such command given to him, the hyena nodded robotically. As the two exited the bank and the escort to the second location had begun, the chimera heaved a sigh. Would he be able to summon his hyena claws on command? Not always being able to do such since the Doctor's experiments intensified, the soldier supposed time would tell.

Long distance of bridges crossed and red stairs descended, the soldier panted. Stairs were quite the horrible invention. Agent walking towards a dead end next to the Teleport Waypoint the two of them had arrived at earlier, a sweatdrop formed upon the man's brow. If the Agent's victim had been right by the Teleport Waypoint the entire time was the obnoxious walk to the bank even necessary? Knowing such question could not leave his lips, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment.

Hyena claws not appearing, the chimera let out another sigh. The malicious malpracticing Doctor must have done something to his chemical makeup with his various experiments on him. Knowing the Agent said he had to collect debts for a week, perhaps, just maybe, not being able to summon his hyena claws on the first day would not cause any anger to directed his way, for the moment at hand.

Generic man with brown everyday Liyue wear holding his hands up in the air, the chimera stared off into space. The man of generic stature was about to get unfortunate Fatui justice served to him within a matter of seconds. Hearing the sound of a dagger resound through the area, his quiet stare continued.

"You're late on your payment on your loan," the Agent said, dagger underneath the victim's neck. "Pay your dues!"

Dagger pressed against the man's neck, a bag of Mora had been placed into the Agent's hands. Fear decorating the generic person's face like paint on a wall. "This is all I have, at the moment," the man said, his voice was shaking. But, even such shaking would not break his generic timbre. "Just take it!"

Seeing the dagger removed from the victim's neck, Siorc's jaw gaped open. The Fatui Agents were Her Majesty's most intimidating soldiers, for sure. The fear on the generic man's face, it was incredibly clear to the early adult. The Agent's debt collecting ordeal was serious business. Did the chimera even need to be here? He knew, however, shirking his duties was not an option if he wished to keep on living.

Debt being collected, the walk back to the bank had made its wrath known. Debt being delivered to the receptionist behind the counter, everything had been moving along at lightning speed. Agent and receptionist talking about the mole being captured in its hole, another sweatdrop formed by the hyena's brow. What absolutely ludicrous conversation the two Fatui were having with one another. Conversation coming to an end as the minutes became hours, the Agent turned to the young soldier.

Wrist gripped in a tight lock within seconds, a gulp had released itself from the chambers of his throat. Grip being as tight as a child-proof lock on a door, the chimera knew; a large amount of shouting awaited his shark eardrums. Accepting his fate, the man gave the Agent a dejected look.

"You need to be more provocative, soldier," the Agent said, his voice had an irritated tone about it. "Have your hyena claws ready right away next time." Gripping his subordinate's wrist tighter, the Agent made his wrath known to the generic Liyue citizens in the bank around him.

Feeling the Agent squeeze even tighter, Siorc broke out into a sweat. Not being able to channel any chimera energy into transforming his arms today, he supposed the Fatui's anger was a given, for the moment at time. Words escaping him, the hyena simply nodded.

"Try harder tomorrow, " the Agent scolded. "We're heading back now, let's get going soldier."

Waypoint Proxy Map out, the soldier stared to the bank wall as the fast travel back to the military barracks was about to begin. If he were not able to summon his hyena claws tomorrow, would his life be over? Such possibility being the case, fear made a meal out of him as the fast travel back to Snezhnaya began.

Agent and he parting ways, and steel walled room upon him, the hyena sat down on the ice cold floor. Closing his eyes, the adult chimera attempted with his best efforts to channel his hyena energy into his currently human hands. Thinking the thoughts he usually would to cause a willed transformation, the man kept his eyes shut for an entire minute.

Hyena claws not appearing in place of his human arms, the hyena closed his eyes. Perhaps, just maybe, if he kept trying, the transformation would eventually come into fruition. Multiple failures bouncing off and around the steel walls, the invisible white flag had been waved for the day.

Nothing. No transformation. Not a single limb had transformed.

Night creeping in, the chimera removed his glasses, hairpins and earrings. Slinking into the uncomfortable bed, a sigh bounced off and around the steel walls. The Doctor, his experiments were surely messing with his chemical makeup by now. Closing his eyes as the world of sleep were about to take him, the thought played on repeat inside the chambers of his partially human brain.

He had to try harder, if he wished to keep on living.

***

Three days had passed by with a militaristic roar. Agent and he going from location to location collecting debts at the stroke of the sun, multiple of the Agent's victims had come forward with the money they had owed. Debt collecting going smoothly for his subordinate, the Fatui had done as always. Although, success for one would not lead to success for the chimera.

Still unable to channel any amount of energy to transform his arms into hyena claws, failure continued to blare its defeat horn throughout the Nation of Contracts. Legs instead transforming instead of his arms, irritated scolding had echoed within the man's shark eardrums. Being told his legs won't scare their victims, failure continued to feast on his insides.

Failure would grab the hyena by the throat today.

Debt collecting moved out of the harbor, Wangshu Inn had been upon the chimera for the day. Mole, as the Agent put it, located on the bottom of the accursed wooden staircase, the long travel downward sauntered with a slow crawl. Stairs being endless, the hyena kept descending. End being reached after half an hour, the early adult let out an exasperated pant. Wooden stairs were quite the horrible invention. Agent in front of him not showing any signs of fatigue, the soldier eyed his subordinate. Just what were the Snezhnaya born Fatui made of?

Agent's victim eventually being upon him, the chimera closed his eyes. Attempting to channel his energy, the usual thoughts the hyena thought to spark a transformation ruminated inside him. Opening his eyes, was a failure to behold. None of his limbs would transform yet again. Legs also still being human ones, the soldier allowed a gulp to escape the esophagus.

Was his partially human brain still unable to send the correct signals to his arms and legs to cause a transformation? Realizing such could be the possibility at hand, the chimera knew another gripping prison scolding awaited him when the job was done for the day.

Generic Liyue citizen with a blue outfit sitting at a table towards the staircase, the Agent had been on the prowl. Daggers in both hands, Siorc stepped two steps backward. Both weapons being out, a battle of late payments and the victim was about to take place.

"Pay your dues," the Agent said on cue. "Or I'll have to take care of you." Dagger placed underneath the victim's neck and torso, his words were vicious, and absolute.

Dagger pressed against the man's neck and torso, two bags of Mora had been placed in the Agent's hands. Man's face being blue as the money was delivered, fear had claimed ownership of him. "Here is what it owed to you," the generic man said. "Have mercy!"

Weapons being removed from the generic man's neck, the debt had been paid in full. Seeing his subordinate threaten with two daggers today, uneasiness grabbed the man by the throat. Debt collecting was quite the violent ordeal with death and consequences served on a bloody platter.

Wrist again gripped into a tight lock, dread nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. Teleporting back to the Harbor, and bank eventually being upon him again, an hour long discussion between the Agent and receptionist about another mole being captured for the Eleventh drudged about. Hearing such conversation crawl about at a berry regrowing in open wildernesses' rate, the hyena stared at the tall drawers in his field of vision. Whenever the conversation were to end, he knew a world of anger awaited him.

Grip increasing in strength, the Agent turned to his subordinate. His future combatant in arms had failed to, yet again, summon his hyena claws as asked of him. Was he playing games? He knew the right words to bring the Fatui back to reality.

"Get in gear, soldier," the Agent exclaimed, voice more irritable than before. "Or do I have to tell Her Majesty you shirked work?" A smirk grew from underneath his mask. Surely, this would work. "If you don't wish to meet your end, try harder!" Releasing his tight grip for the moment, his smirk grew.

Siorc jumped eleven steps back upon hearing the Agent say he would tell Her Majesty. Heart beating unevenly within his chest, the chimera closed his eyes as the beat increased in strength as the seconds raged about in chaos. Punishment within the palace flashing in his mind, the soldier could feel a scream bubble inside him. Knowing a scream would cause a scene, the hyena's sharp teeth bit his tongue. Reminder of punishment playing on repeat, the uneven beat in his chest would not cease, even for a moment.

Back in reality, a smirk had appeared underneath the Agent's mask. Human arms having transformed into hyena claws upon his threat, the Fatui rubbed his gloved hands together militaristically. Fear was a beautiful instrument of war. Threats, surely, would work to meet the gains.

Taking an elongated deep breath, the chimera opened his eyes. Heartbeat dissipating after his breathing exercises had been completed, the soldier stared downward at his arms in front of him. His human arms had transformed into hyena ones. Multitude of people being around, an apology swarmed within him like a school of fish.

"I'm sorry, sir," he replied weakly. Agent not seeming angry, the hyena's eyebrow twitched. Had his subordinate wanted this? Regardless, he knew, an apology was necessary. "I will try harder."

Hearing his subordinate's apology, the Agent clamped down on his wrist again. "Good," he replied. "We're heading back now, soldier. Let's go."

Waypoint to the Snezhnaya military barracks highlighted, the hyena closed his eyes again. Teleporting was still a blinding ordeal no matter how many times the chimera had done so. Barracks eventually upon him within seconds, and wrist being free, the travel back to the soundproof room had begun.

Steel walled room upon him, the hyena quickly closed his eyes for a moment. Hyena arms retracting back into human ones, the man let out a labored sigh. Glasses, hairpins and earrings removed, the early adult had sunk into the rock hard bed. Closing his eyes, a world of tormented sleep awaited him.

He had to get it right tomorrow.

***

"Cannot believe the lengths The Agent will go to.
Liyue's Sigil of Permission, how will that help me?
Absolutely certain it will not channel my chimera energy.
Why is he trying this on me? It will not work, surely."

Waking up the next morning, the hyena knew, if he were to fail today, his life would be over, for sure. Agent reminding him Her Majesty would be alerted to him abandoning his duties if he were to fail again today, the chimera would not falter. Die, in Snezhnaya? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. The hyena did not wish for such outcome to ever arise.

Debt collecting had taken an Adeptus power turn for the day.

After the Agent and receptionist had their usual mole talk, a golden talisman had been slipped into the chimera's currently human hands. Looking down at the golden paper in front of him, the hyena rolled his eyes to the bank ceiling. Why was the Agent giving him a Sigil of Permission? Recalling from his father's studies such talisman was used to worship the Adepti, did the Yaksha owe a debt to the Fatui? Many questions swam inside him as the seconds went on.

Recalling a punishment had been one failure away, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Human arms becoming hyena ones, a sigh of relief echoed throughout the bank walls. Agent eventually being ready, the two had begun the fast travel to the next location.

Seeing the location at hand, uneasiness hugged the man from behind. Seeing red and blue scarecrows off in the distance upon colorful cliffsides, it had come to the hyena in an instant. The Agent and he were collecting debts in Quingce Village today. If Liyue's legal advisor had seen him, a world of flames awaited him.

Being instructed by the Agent to meet him up above, the hyena walked forward. Set of wooden ladders before him, the chimera ascended the first ladder with due diligence. First ladder conquered, he walked to the right. Second ladder in front of him, he knew he had to speed up the pace. Time was not a virtue on the nonexistent clock. Accelerating his climb, the chimera jumped up the second wooden ladder. Second ladder conquered, the soldier walked to the right again. Third and final ladder in his damaged field of vision, the man hopped up the ladder at breakneck speed. Rock pathway below him, a pant broke from his throat.

More stairs in front of him, he let out a small grunt. He was getting quite tired of climbing up ladders and stairs, such a horrific cardiovascular exercise. Agent waiting for him in tow, the hyena stepped forward. Generic middle aged gentlemen standing outside a wooden house, the next victim had been on public display.

Chimera's arrival making rounds, the Agent pointed his gloved hand at his currently hyena arm. Not hearing the sound of his daggers, he placed his claws in front of him. Being Her Majesty's pawn, he knew the choice was not his.

"My men helped you sell your Cor Lapis, so return your end of the bargain," the Agent said. His voice was seeping with greed and poison. "Pay your dues, or my subordinate over here will scratch you."

Threat being given, the chimera heaved a sigh. Knowing nothing could be done about his orders, he placed his hyena claws into a fighting position. The Fatui Agent's victim for the day, surely, they had the debt already prepared for collection? Attacking a human with his hyena claws was not something he wished to initiate.

Man stepping back for a moment, two heavy bags had lived in his hands. One bag placed in the Agent's, and one in the hyena's, the man shook his fist. "My business will take off someday," the man exclaimed. "And then I'll leave this dump. Just you wait."

Bag sinking in his hyena hands, the chimera let out a small growl. Had the salesman owed a debt in Cor Lapis? The Eleventh and Fatui Agent's debt collections were a fickle ordeal. Orange rocks weighing him down, the debt had been paid in full. Fast travel to the Harbor beginning, the hyena shut his eyes.

Knowing another long conversation about moles was about to make its rounds in the bank after the abhorrent stair and bridge climb sauntered onward, the soldier stared at the golden talisman placed in his uniform pocket. The Sigil of Permission had gone completely unused. The Agent, had he thought giving him such object would channel his chimera energy to channel into the right places? Absolutely ridiculous, and insulting. If the Adeptus were to hear of this, their anger would shake the mountains.

Returning the golden talisman to the receptionist and handing the bag of Cor Lapis, Siorc sat down crisscross on the circular green rug below him. Usual hours long discussion of another mole being captured, the hyena rolled his eyes in disgust. The conversation about moles had aged liked a Watasumi Island resistance army member in an alternate version of Teyvat.

Conversation coming to an end, the Agent turned to his subordinate. Tapping the man on the shoulder, the chimera rose to his feet. Wrist being grabbed, as usual, the chimera closed his eyes in defeat. Gripping prison had always won the battle.

"We're heading back now, soldier," the Agent called out on cue. "Keep it up over the next two days, and you can explore Liyue, if you wish."

Fast travel back to the military barracks starting, the early adult turned up his nose to such remark. Allow him to explore Liyue on the last day if he kept it up? Nature and he were seeing other partially human people, at the moment. But, he supposed he would continue to try his best. Military barracks within his damaged field of vision in a split second, the chimera returned to the soundproof room in silence.

Glasses and accessories removed, he sunk into the bed like monsters dropping items to the bottom of an unreachable lake. Tiredness immediately taking him, the soldier closed his eyes. Punishment flashing through his mind, a thought poked the dormant shark grooves in his brain as the tormented world of dreams called out to him.

Flowers and he were on a break.

***

"Sometimes I ponder, Her Majesty, why does she send me on missions like these?
Agent always takes charge of debt collecting situations,
Likely before I can even come into any of these equations.
To be honest, I know I am not cut out for this line of work,
Your Majesty, just what test are you trying to accomplish?

Cannot see the point,
Or her motives in the end,
Obviously I cannot ask, questions are not allowed.
Keeping up with it is all I can do, I suppose.
I'm certain she's watching me,
Even now, I recall that
Saying, 'the walls have ears.' I need to be diligent. Obedience is key."

The next day marched onward without any incident. Being able to summon his hyena claws at will, nothing of especial happenstance had occurred within his day of debt collection. Debts being paid, and success blaring its victory horn, the final day of debt collecting had been upon the hyena. Eleventh Harbinger returning to the bank tomorrow, the chimera was ready for his debt collection duties with his subordinate to end for all of Inazuma's eternity.

Some oddities had been thrown his way on the final day of debt collection, however. Being tasked to deliver supplies to a Snezhnayan merchant in Liyue Harbor known as Ivaonvich, the chimera would not falter. Skipping out on such person last time, perhaps, just maybe, the generic person had no memory of him. Supplies being delivered, and final mole conversation at the bank making rounds, the end of the debt collecting week was reaching for the final curtain.

Such curtain call would come later than scheduled.

Multiple victims being on the Agent's agenda for the day, the chimera transformed his human hands into hyena ones with heavy reluctance. Being told by the Agent there had been multiple frisky clients today, instructions of swinging his hyena claws had been relayed to him.

Difficult victims paying their debts after his subordinate's threats of him attacking them if they did not comply, multiple screams had echoed throughout the Harbor. Agent's debt victims around the left side of the harbor paid in full, the chimera walked downward.

Underground market gracing his damaged field of vision, the next set of frisky clients debts had been paid in full. Threats of the chimera attacking continuing to make rounds around the Harbor, a somber look glued itself onto the soldier's face. Would the people of Teyvat consider him a monster? His parents had always told him to be careful about presenting his hyena traits in public. Underground market debts collected, the next area had been upon him with continued reluctance.

Debts collected around an area of the Harbor known as Feiyun Slope, the hyena sighed in tedium. Just how many people in Liyue owed money or compensation to the Northland Bank? The chimera did not know, but the number felt infinite. Agent telling him there had been only a few people left for the day, a sense of relief flooded through the man.

Final victim upon him, the chimera swung his hyena arm in attack mode. Strange bag of blue rocks being handed to him, the soldier handed the bag to his subordinate. Every single debt had been paid in full. Abhorrent red staircase ascended, and brown bridge trudged one final time, the early adult entered the bank for the last time. Bags of Mora and rocks handed to the chestnut haired receptionist, the soldier sat on an unoccupied chair as the ridiculous mole conversations rolled about.

Tap on his currently hyena shoulder registering after a few seconds, the hyena tilted his head upward. Knowing the Agent was about to tell him he could explore Liyue if he wished, the chimera held back a grunt. Nature and he were on a break.

"Your job is done, soldier," the Agent stated. "You can explore Liyue, if you wish. Return within three hours."

Exiting the bank, the soldier officially off duty closed his eyes. Hyena paws retracting back into human hands, he opened his eyes. Staring off into the distance for a moment, the chimera had come to a quick, but ultimate conclusion. While flowers and nature and he had been seeing other people, getting tea at the panda chimera's teahouse had not been. Resolute on his decision, the hyena opened the Teleport Waypoint Proxy into map form. Highlighting the other waypoint within Liyue Harbor, the fast travel had been over in an instant.

Teahouse being across from him within seconds, he ascended up the final staircase for the day. Usual tall brunette patron sitting at one of the tables and opera singer to the other side, the soldier finally off duty sat adjacent to the tall brunette man, like always.

Yinlong walking over after a minute, a tired smile graced his face. At least if in the future, Liyue were to think he was some sort of monster hybrid roaming about, the panda chimera would be too lazy to think such. With all the fear in people's faces he had witnessed today, ordering tea from the panda chimera could drown out the multitude of forced upon fear he had to deliver.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their words were slow and lulled, like always. "Here for some tea? You look tired. Let me give you something easier today."

Barely having any energy remaining, he supposed being given a lighter tea did not matter. Small cup of tea being brought to the table, the man reached for his back pocket. Mora pouch in hand, he placed the gold coins into Yinlong's hands. Tea being yellow rather than brown this time around, he tilted his head. Herbal tea was an odd world of mystery to him.

"Thank you, sir," he replied, barely audible. Taking a sip of the tea, the bitter herb hit the roots of his mouth.

Panda chimera sitting down for a moment, they looked into the chimera's eyes. Did they have something important to ask him? Anything was better than hearing the screams of the Agent's debt victims at the sight of his hyena claws.

"Busy day today?" Yinlong asked, slowness still present in their voice. "You really look tired." Placing a hand on his shoulder, a slow smile creeped upon their face. "What did the big bad Fatui have you do for them today?" Placing a finger on their knuckle for a moment, they looked into Siorc's eyes. "If you're tired, sign it for me? I know sign language."

Alerted to Yinlong's progress, the chimera placed his right hand in front of him. Placing his left index finger on his palm, he turned to the panda chimera. Did Yinlong know Her Majesty could always be listening anywhere he went? The panda was a sharp tac.

Eyeing the sign in front of them, an oil bulb had went off in the panda chimera's head. Had Siorc been collecting debts today? Realizing he could not say such out loud, the panda supposed not mentioning it with words had to become of them.

"Oh, I see, no wonder you're so tired," they responded, fingers to their lips. As they said such, they pumped their fists together. Perhaps telling him about their progress would be alright to mention? "Oh, by the way! I'm still keeping up with the exercises you taught me. Boss says I've really improved!" Their two index fingers then touched. "Still not in her opera troupe, though. But, they're recruiting soon. I'll try my best!" Their pink eyes shimmered brightly like the stars in the sky.

Hearing the panda chimera had been making continued progress, the tired smile grew slightly on the hyena's face. The panda making progress was the only good information given to him today. Yinlong stepping away for a moment, the chimera took another sip of the tea.

Plate of panda shaped cookies placed in front of him after the panda returned the soldier off duty pointed at the tray placed in front of him. While he knew pointing was a rude gesture, the man had been none the wiser to why a plate of desserts had been placed in front of him. Looking into Yinlong's eyes, he placed his left index finger on his chin.

Seeing the puzzled look on their friend's face, Yinlong folded their hands together. He was wondering about the cookies, was he? Autumn festival soon coming up, the panda chimera steeled themself. Would his invitation to the festival pull through? They had hoped for such to be the case.

"Are you wondering about the cookies?" Yinlong asked, words picking up slight speed. "Well, the Moonchase Festival is coming up soon, and I'm in charge of making a couple of snacks this year." Readying their next words with a fervor, they extended their hand out like an invitation to a party. "Would you like to come? It'd be great to have you!"

Siorc's smile dissipated into a somber look. Fatui schedule being as busy as it is, he knew his days off would likely not align with the Moonchase Festival coming up. Would a Fatui such as himself even be allowed at such festival? Knowing the screams he had heard today around the Harbor, he figured his entrance to the festival would never be allowed, regardless. He knew he had to tell Yinlong some of such fact.

"I don't know if I can make it sir," the chimera responded, words emotionless. "I'm sorry."

Hearing the predictable rejection, Yinlong's panda ears dropped for a moment. Boy time alone at the Moonchase Festival was an impossibility to be had, for sure. An absolute shame, but he knew nothing could be done about it. Fatui had busy lives ahead of them.

"Oh, alright, maybe next time, then," they said, slight disappointment evident in their voice. "But, maybe try one of my cookies?" They then turned to the tall brunette. "Why not you have one, too. Mr. -------? I would love your feedback!" A name had been uttered by the panda chimera, but the hyena could not hear it. It was almost as if, outside forces had prevented such name from being heard by an audience.

Nodding, the chimera took a panda shaped cookie. Biting into the sweet, an immediate amount of excess salt reigned supreme on his taste buds. Had Yinlong incorrectly measured a few ingredients? Not having had sweets in awhile, perhaps it had just been too much for his mouth. Would telling the panda the snack was too salty hurt his feelings? Such being a possibility, the hyena kept his mouth shut. Brunette next to him about to speak, he turned his attention to him.

"Baking is a science of measuring, and mixing," the tall brunette said. His voice was deep, and had a historic feel to it. "Miss Yinlong, your science was incorrect. You may want to lessen the sodium in the recipe."

Feedback being given by the tall brunette man, a small feeling of defeat came flooding inside Yinlong's chest. "Did I use too much salt?" they asked, words slowing down with every syllable. Did Siorc think the same thing? They could only help but wonder. "What do you think, Siorc, are they too salty?"

Shaking his head, the chimera placed his hands to the side of him. Placing his hands near the center of his body, he turned to Yinlong again. Would wordlessly telling him the cookies were a little too salty hurt his feelings? The chimera hoped such would not be the case.

Seeing Siorc sign the word little, a small face of defeat graced the panda's face. Baking was a world of success and failure everyone in Teyvat had to experience at least once in their lifetime, after all.

"I'll use less salt next time," Yinlong replied, slight confidence present in their voice. "Thank you for the feedback, you two."

Finishing his tea as the panda thanked the brunette and he, the chimera tilted his head upward in the sky. Moon almost being out, the hyena rose from the chair. Remembering the Agent said he had to return within three hours, taking his leave had to come of him soon. Time was not a virtue in the permafrost north.

"You're welcome, sir," he replied. Voice slightly more audible. "Thank you for the tea, it was wonderful." Knowing night could fall at any moment, he knew it was time to return to the barracks. "I must take my leave now." As he said such, he removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his uniform pocket. "It was very nice seeing you again."

Yinlong's panda ears dropped. He was leaving for Snezhnaya already? Such a shame, it was. But, they knew the Fatui never had a lot of moments of reprieve. Before the teleport back home, they figured the usual goodbye could be uttered. Maybe sometime in the future, they could finally have boy time alone again? He hoped such could be the case, at some point.

"It was nice seeing you again, too," he said, words still slow. "Maybe next time, we can finally have boy time alone again!" He waved to the chimera slowly. "I'll keep up with my exercise. Next time we meet, maybe I'll have passed the opera troupe auditions!" A yawn presented itself as they finished speaking. A nap would be in order soon.

Waving back to the panda, tiredness roared about inside the hyena. It was time to go back to Snezhnaya. Back to his forced upon homeland for another workday tomorrow. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, the wave of fatigue had begun to grow stronger.

Military barracks upon him, a thought raced through the hyena's mind. The debt collecting he had to do throughout Liyue Harbor, maybe he just wasn't cut out for such task. Agent taking charge for most of the week, he knew such could have been the only answer. Debt collecting was not his forte. Knowing the world of deliveries around Teyvat possibly awaited him tomorrow, the chimera closed the debt collecting book shut inside him.

Steel walled room soon upon him, he slumped onto the uncomfortable bed. Glasses and accessories removed, and uniform off, Siorc closed his eyes. One final thought ruminated inside him as the world of tormented sleep was about to take him.

The Northland Bank was Fatui property. Her Majesty, just how far had her reach in Liyue gotten at this point? Her Majesty was planning something. Something sinister.

Debts were being paid in full, indeed.

"Where's Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 2?" In the Silence is Purple Side Stories thread.

3. Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 3: Mondstadt Day Off Edition

"Why do I feel so uneasy?
Really, no alarm bells,
It surely cannot be a good thing.
There has to be something Her Majesty is planning
That much, I can see
Every time I have a holiday off, I know she is planning something sinister, surely.
Now my suspicions are growing drastically.

In recent time, through all this monotony,
Nothing Her Majesty could be planning is coming to me.

That being said, I suppose I could use this holiday to find her. Find
Hase. It has been awhile.
Even I have lost track of time.

Something inside me is making everything blend together.
Though, I think it is due time.
After all, the city of freedom.
Really, there are people I have not asked yet.
So, this holiday off, it beacons me."

Dreaming had continued its relentless reign within the adult chimera's subconscious mind. That pattern of torment would not cease, even within his adult life. The cycle would hug the chimera from behind, holding him tight, forevermore. That pattern of agony would continue onward into the night before him, as well.

Before him had been an area unknown to the chimera. Within his field of dream vision had been a grey domed area similar to one he had encountered in Wolvendom many years prior. Such similarities had ended there immediately. The domed area before him had pillars of flames everywhere he looked. Seeing the flames, the hyena let out a gulp from the dream throat. An event of flames was about to await him.

In the center of the dome was an unusual sight to behold. Planted in the middle was a monstrous flower of Pyro activity. The flower was gargantuan, with four orange petals sweltering with flames, and the core in the center. Seeing such creature, the young soldier allowed a grunt to escape the dream throat. Why was there a flower within the not reality of the dream world? Flowers and he were still on a break.

Unfamiliarly was about to die a dishonorable death.

As the dream minutes continued, a familiar face appeared within the planes of the early adult's subconscious mind. Appearing out of thin dream air had been a familiar face. Green hair, and jade eyes he'd recognize anywhere. His younger sister had been standing about like a statue surrounded by two young women he had seen various times during his multiple business affairs in Liyue.

Next to Hase had been a short young woman with dark skin. Dark brown hair in high pigtails held together with many rows of spikes, the hyena examined the dream person with due diligence. Golden eyes matching with the rest of the Liyue citizens, the hyena's examination continued. On her back had been an odd looking red barrel. Just what purpose did the barrel serve? He knew, however, the dream world would not answer any questions. Dark brown outfit exposing the young woman's legs, the soldier ended his examination.

To the other side of his sister had been a slightly taller woman. Skin being lighter in tone, the chimera had come to wonder: had the barrel girl been the only person within Liyue with a darker skin tone? It was almost as if, in a world outside Teyvat, such people that had been created by the Gods were few and far in between. Absolutely ludicrous nonsense to be had, for sure. Shaking his head, the hyena continued his observation. The young woman had light violet hair with cat-ear like buns at the top of it. Long pigtails protruding from the backside, the soldier looked downward. The woman's eyes were a bright red, an unusual sight within the world of Liyue. Purple outfit matching her hair color, the hyena ended his examination of the two people surrounding his only remaining family.

Recalling the person had been a Yueheng of the Liyue Qixing, sweat had formed at the dream brow. If the Yueheng were to see him within the dream world, justice would be served upon an Electro platter. Attempting to back away, the hyena tried with all his might to move seven steps backwards. Moving was a carcass in the casket. Feeling a nonexistent lock his currently human legs in place, the hyena stared relentlessly. All he could do was watch. Watch in immobility from afar as the group of three were about to fight the monster flower in front of them.

"Are ya sure you want to battle this monster?" The barrel girl asked. "You don't have a Vision on ya." Her words had a slight gruff feel to them.

"Please be careful, Hase," the Yueheng chimed in. Her words were serious. "This is nothing like what we've practiced before."

Hearing such the soldier's subconscious eyes blinked. Were the three of them really about to fight the monster flower? He supposed he was about to find out. Hase disappearing for a moment, and the two woman nodding as she came back, a sweatdrop appeared near the hyena's left eye. What had just happened? Why had Hase vanished for a brief moment? He knew the world he had been in now had no room for pondering. Such oddities were a commonality within the world he had been forcefully pulled into while in the scape of the dreams.

Three women stepping forward, and Pyro plant roaring, the soldier's quiet stare continued. Sword in Hase and the Yueheng's hand, and claymore in the barrel girl's two, a fight of plant versus humanity had been on subconscious display. Odd red core appearing by the plant's roots, defenses had been deployed.

"Don't blink!" the Yueheng screamed. As she shouted such, a small crystal had appeared by the plant monster's core. "Incoming!" Yueheng appearing as if teleporting, the woman's sword had been filled with an electric power. Core vanishing, the plant fell upon the platform, stationary.

"Time to rock!" the barrel girl called out. Guitar appearing in her hands, and odd shield surrounding Hase, a defensive approach had been made. "Now's your chance, Hase! Can you feel the beat?"

Words had been said by Hase, but the chimera could not hear them. Black shadow engulfing her entire figure, six strikes of her sword had been blown upon the gargantuan Pyro flower fiend. Victory looking to be in sight, more rounds of Electro crystals had been hurled at the creature.

Victory had been ceased like a Vision in Inazuma.

Flower fiend lowering its head, a beam of fire had been hurled at Hase. Black shadow dissipating, flames and his sister had met. Shield popping as well, the young chimera woman and the battlefield shook hands. Defeat blaring its victory horn, Hase's consciousness had ceased, for the dream moment in time.

Two Liyuean woman hoisting Hase's limp body upward, the two had left the battlefield. Plant monster becoming stationary within seconds of the three leaving the platform, the hyena's subconscious heterochromatic eye twitched about. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, if one were to stray too far from an arena, the monster would hit an invisible reset button returning everything to a previous state.

"Aww, shoot, knew we shouldn't have brought her here. She wasn't ready," the guitarist girl said, dejected. She then turned to the Yueheng. "Come on, we gotta get her to a doctor." Three women vanishing as the barrel girl said such, the area had been empty. Horror would soon grace him within a matter of dream seconds.

Plant monster of Pyro activity suddenly in front of him, fear ate the chimera up like Black-back Perch Stew. Plant roaring about, the hyena knew a solo fight was about to break out in the not reality presented before him. Perhaps, just maybe, he had a weapon on him in the current world? Weapons occasionally being in his pockets within the land of dreams, the soldier searched the pocket of numbness. Surely, there had to be a weapon on his dream person. Luck and the Archons were not on his side.

No weapon being on his partial person, another gulp had released from the dream throat. Fighting bare handed was useless. Flower being much greater in size than the early adult, the man knew he stood no chance against the contradictory monster towering over him. Monster flower lowering its head, the hyena closed his eyes in defeat.

He was the flower's next victim.

***

Sixty days had passed since Siorc had to collect debts with the Agent in tow throughout the nation of Liyue. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred within the adult chimera's life. Deliveries around Teyvat returning with a vengeance, nothing had been out of the ordinary for the young soldier.

Upon waking up from his tormented slumber, a labored scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his head. Uneasiness planting a seed inside him, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Hearing no Fatui groan in an echo, fear rooted deeper inside him. Had he woken up late today? Her Majesty would be disappointed if such were the case. Glasses being on, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body. Late, early, or not, time was not a virtue within the military barracks.

While dressing in his uniform, more thoughts of unease rooted further within the hyena's partially human brain. Surely, the Agent would arrive at any moment now. Still not hearing any groans in an echo, the hyena snapped his uniform buttons shut. The footsteps had to arrive soon, surely.

But no footsteps would ever arrive. Silence playing out on an endless loop, the chimera clicked his hairpins and earrings into place. Putting on his favorite moon shaped hairpins and earrings for the day, perhaps, just maybe, the Agent would arrive. Such convenience never came into fruition. Silence continued to reign supreme within the empty military barracks.

Hearing the sound of tape peeling off on the door outside, the early adult's ears perked. Had yet another note been left on his door again? Knowing time was never his while in the permafrost north, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. On the door had been a note. Figuring every other door had the same note plastered upon it, the soldier stared in silence at the words written.

"You have two days off," the note in clear Snezhnaya writing had said. Seeing such words on the paper, fear blossomed into a flower inside him. Her Majesty, had she been planning something again? Last holiday leading him to a takeover in Inazuma, he knew a sudden holiday could not have been a good thing.

Returning to the soundproof room for a moment, the dream from earlier flashed through the soldier off duty's mind. Hase, could she still be somewhere in Teyvat? Not having searched for her since his last holiday, an idea had deposited itself within the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

Remembering the rest of Teyvat had been nearing the season of autumn, the chimera knew where he could resume searching for her. The capital city in Mondstadt, surely, someone had to have seen Hase around the area. Knowing Hase loved the autumn season in Mondstadt the most, perhaps, he would be able to run into her there. Resolute on his decision, he highlighted the waypoint towards the back of the capital city.

As the teleportation to the capital city of Mondstadt began, the soldier off duty closed his eyes. Teleporting had been a blinding ordeal like it always had been. Capital city nearly upon him, thoughts of Hase played on repeat within the chambers of his brain.

The one member search party was about to resume.

***

"Knowing Hase, I know she has to be in Mondstadt right now.
Nearing autumn, the pumpkins will be out soon.
I'm certain she'll be in the Nation of Freedom.
Going to go with my gut with this one.
Hopefully, just maybe someone has seen her.
The citizens in the city, I know they remember her.
So, I'm going to ask around, even if wordless communication is a must-be."

Teleport Waypoint placing him on top of a tower, a gulp had released from his partially human throat. Church within his damaged field of vision, a memory of displeasure had graced the corners of his mind. Around Mondstadt had been various Fatui Diplomats. If any were to see him during his escapades, a whistle would be blown upon him, for sure. He supposed he would have to be cautious, for the time being.

Wind glider deployed, the hyena descended downward towards the ground below. Landing near a staircase, the chimera ascended towards the area above. Church to the side of him, the hyena headed towards the left. Barbados statue nearing, the soldier's lips broke into a slight smile. The atmosphere had been as intoxicating, as always.

People soon gathering by the statue, the hyena was ready. Placing his hands into a praying position, the soldier blended in with the crowd. Despite such, the chimera would not falter. Multiple citizens turning towards him, multiple repeat questions had been fired. Generic nobodies claiming they recognized him, disappointment had graced his shark eardrums at the sound of rejection. No one in the front of statue had seen Hase. Circling towards the backside, the questions continued.

Self proclaimed six fingered bard on the other side of the statue, the question had been repeated. Man stating he has never seen such a person, the hyena kept walking. Not a single person having an answer to his question within the vicinity of the statue, the early adult headed towards the church staircase.

Staring at the church doors lifelessly, Siorc shook his head. If the Fatui Diplomat in the church were to have spotted him inside the cathedral, he would tell Her Majesty what he was up to, for sure. Seeing a long winded path towards the backside of the church, the soldier off duty walked to the left. Small graveyard upon him, he closed his eyes for a moment. The dead deserved respects to be paid to them. Bard playing a tune towards a headstone, the hyena turned his heelless shoes towards the opposite direction. Disturbing those paying their respects was terribly rude.

No one having an answer for him near the church area, the chimera descended the staircase. Fatui guard within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision, the man's legs erupted into a swift sprint. Absolutely no Fatui should see him right now; definitely not. Shopping district almost upon him, the chimera kept moving. Familiar generic nobodies nearing him, the early adult ended his sprint.

Waitress near an open stove, the young man placed his hands in front of him. Fatui Diplomats in the area, words had to be few and far in between. Left hand formed into an L shape he placed it beside him. Right hand matching the same finger movement, he placed his right hand by his jaw. Jaw being pointed at, he moved his right hand into a downward position. Right index finger tapping down onto his left hand, he looked at the waitress.

Waitress saying she had not seen Hase, the hyena turned around to the opposite direction. General store employee on the other side, the chimera prepared his hand. Signing sister a second time, he hoped a positive answer would grace him. Generic general store owner also not having an answer for him, the moved on towards the other stores within the area.

Gift shop owner and Adventurers' Guild Receptionist not having answers, either, the soldier off duty moved eastward. Small blacksmith booth in front of him, multiple wordless questions about his sister's whereabouts had been fired. Neither the blacksmith nor the apprentice having seen her, he headed towards the west.

Small flower shop beside him, Siorc turned his head and crossed his arms. Flowers and he were seeing other people. Not wishing to ask the florist about his sister, the hyena gave the young woman a cold shoulder. Winery just a staircase away, the chimera kept walking. Drunkards unable to answer him coherently, the soldier off duty turned back around. There had been one place within the merchant area he had not yet checked.

Strange device next to the Mondstadt General Goods Store, a particular person had stood out to him amongst the sea of generic nobodies. Standing by the odd machine had been a young woman slightly taller than him. The young lady had short, light green hair that went down to about her neck. Surrounding her hair had been two green ears that almost looked like apart of the hair itself. Could they have just been loose hair? Not seeing human ears on her, the hyena tilted his head. Could this person be a chimera? He supposed it could be a possibility, but he knew it was no business of his. Pushing such thought away, the man continued his observation. The young woman had yellow eyes with small glasses in front of them. Her eyes had a nervous look to them. Had the young woman been a shaky person? His parents had always told him a person's eyes said a lot about them. Her outfit was blue with brown stockings complimenting the outfit. Large gold symbol on the center of her outfit, a slight feeling of unease had bubbled inside him. It was one of the Knights of Favonius. He would need to proceed with caution.

"Um, good afternoon, would you like to use the crafting bench?" the girl asked. Her voice sounded nervous. She then tilted her head to the left for a moment, looking as though she had been pondering something. "You...bear a strong resemblance to a girl I taught alchemy experiments to... Could you be...? Ah, what am I saying? It's rude of me to assume relations of a complete stranger..." Her words had paused many times as she spoke.

Hearing the young woman mention a girl, the chimera's ears perked. Had the girl seen Hase? While Her Majesty could be anywhere in Teyvat listening, he could not care less, at the moment in time. Having his first lead of the day, he knew he had to ask the young knight if she had meant Hase. Taking a deep breath, the hyena had readied the forbidden art of asking a question.

"Do you mean Hase, miss?" Siorc asked forbiddingly. Would miss be proper form of address? The chimera had hoped such to be the case. "Did she tell you where she was going?!" A tone of desperation had been in his voice. Surely, Hase could have told the Knight of Favonius where she was headed next? Many questions swirled inside him like Anemo elemental reactions, but no more questions would leave his lips.

Knight's ears dropping downward, a dejected look graced his face. Girl's ears telling it all, he knew what answer was about to be relayed to him. Already used to hearing no at this point involving his inquiries about his family, such was a predictable outcome to be had, for sure.

"Ah, no, she didn't, I'm afraid," the young knight said. But, her ears flapped about. "But... I did see her by the training grounds recently..." Her ears spoke louder than her words.

New lead being provided to him, the chimera bowed a thank you. Recalling the training grounds had been to the other side of the city by a staircase, the one member search party was about to continue. Multiple staircases conquered, and Fatui diplomats too absorbed in business to notice him, the destination had been reached in silence.

Young generic adolescent girl swinging a sword alone on the training grounds, the chimera prepared his forbidden question. Everyone else in the capital city seeming preoccupied with their duties, the early adult readied his question with a fervor. Inquiry making its rounds known, the soldier off duty waited.

"Nope, definitely haven't seen anyone like that," the girl said. Even her voice sounded generic. "But, maybe Master ---- would know?" A name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it.

Generic adolescent having a slight lead, the chimera readied to head towards the Knights Headquarters. However, as he prepared for such, loud heeled footsteps could be heard approaching the training grounds. Was the Acting Grand Master already heading this way? He supposed he could wait a moment before heading over to the next location. Heeled footsteps volume eventually reaching zero, the chimera was ready.

"Oh, you're here," the generic adolescent called out. "Thank you for helping me out Miss ----." Another name had been called out, but the chimera could not hear it. It was almost as if, in a world outside Teyvat, the word of a god would not allow for such name to be said.

Heeled footsteps reaching their end, the chimera stared at the person in question. On the Favonius training grounds had been a tall, prickly looking woman. The woman had icy blue hair that was uneven on the left side. Left side covering her shoulder, the chimera looked elsewhere. The woman's eyes were quite the sight to behold. Top half being purple and bottom half of her eyes being peach, the chimera tilted his head. Had this person's eyes been special? He had never seen anything like them before. White outfit with a blue tie and black bottom the hyena focused his attention on the tie. Large gold symbol on her uniform, a gulp had released itself from the esophagus. Yet another Knight had been within the capital city today. Had his holiday and the knights lined up perfectly? Convenience should die a dishonorable death.

Heeled knight noticing his gaze, the woman crossed her arms and turned her head in a haughty manner. Hearing a tone of disgust bounce off the training dummies, the hyena sighed. Remembering there had been someone else on the training grounds, however, the soldier off duty supposed the attitude could have been directed at the generic nobody. Heeled knight turning to the hyena, unease overplanted itself in the pot inside him.

"You look like her," the heeled knight said, there was visible haughty disgust in her voice. "I swear, vengeance will mine!"

Siorc jumped three steps back upon hearing the knight exact vengeance on his sister. Just what has Hase done to this person for her to want to seek revenge? Was she in some sort of trouble? If the knight wanted to strike, he would rather take the brunt of it than allow unprecedented danger to grace his currently estranged family member. Perhaps, just maybe, talking on her level would change her word trajectory? The chimera supposed it was worth a shot.

"Miss, If you mean Hase," Siorc said, voice barely audible. "Exact your revenge on me instead." Currently human arms spread out like a certain modelling pose unknown to him, the hyena was resolute. Would this work? The Knights were an eccentric group of people.

Heeled knight twirling a strand of her hair in her gloved hand, tension had begun to nibble on the cartilage of his ears. Surely, she had to have been thinking it over? If she were to still seek revenge on Hase, politeness would leave the building immediately.

"Heed my words, Fatui," the heeled knight said with a aristocratic roar. "Your day of reckoning shall come."

Future revenge exacted upon him, the chimera turned his heelless shoes to the left. He knew asking any further questions about Hase would lead him nowhere. Recalling the generic adolescent had said the Acting Grand Master might know, the soldier off duty sauntered towards the Knights of Favonius Headquarters. Acting Grand Master exiting out the Headquarters conveniently, the hyena walked over to her. It was almost as if, in a world outside Teyvat, such convenience had been placed in a deliberate manner to push a story along.

Not wishing to use his voice at the moment, the chimera placed his currently human hands in front of him. Acting Grand Master fixing her ponytail, the hyena waited. Knight's focus eventually back on him, the the hyena wordlessly communicated the word sister to her. Would the Acting Grand Master understand his signs? He knew the Knights were too busy to take a moment to learn a wordless language.

"Your sister?" the Acting Grand Master asked. "I don't believe I've seen her, but the Cavalry Captain might have."

Acting Grand Master stepping out of the way, the soldier off duty allowed a sigh to release from the throat. Had the Knight been saying the captain of the mysteriously absent horses was inside the Knights of Favonius Headquarters? He supposed if he wanted more answers, the choice was not his.

Having been inside the Headquarters before for diplomatic affairs, the chimera opened the first door within the building. Dark blue haired man sitting by a tea set with paper across the table, a jolt of familiarity pulsed down his back. The man's furred collar and eyepatch, why did it all feel so familiar to him? He never remembered meeting such person before.

Cavalry captain folding his hands together and smirking, a wave of anxiety hugged the chimera from behind. Why was the Knight smirking? Did he have some ulterior motive? The man's attitude, just what was he about to say? Whatever his motives were, the hyena would not allow for the first strike from him. He knew he had to act fast.

"Have you seen my sister?" the hyena asked forbiddingly. "She has short, wavy green hair and wears earrings." Tone of desperation in his voice, the chimera looked back at the captain. Why was he still smirking at him? He couldn't comprehend what could have possibly been on the eyepatched man's mind.

"Why yes, I've seen her!" the captain exclaimed. He sounded artificially chipper, for some reason. "She said she was heading for the Thousand Wind Temple."

Hearing the incredibly fake tone in the Cavalry Captain's voice, the soldier off duty closed his eyes for a moment. There was no way the captain of the missing horses could have been telling the truth. But, perhaps, just maybe, there had been a small chance she had indeed been at the temple. One percent chance being greater than zero, the hyena would not falter.

Mouthing a thank you to the captain, the chimera removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his uniform pocket. Opening the orb into map form, the hyena dragged his finger towards the Thousand Wind Temple section of the map. No Teleport Waypoint present within the temple, the soldier off duty highlighted the waypoint that was closest to the area. Eyes closed, the teleportation to Starfell Valley began.

Chimera disappearing in a blinding light, the Cavalry Captain smirked. Recently furthering his intel on chimeras throughout Teyvat, the Knight folded his gloved hands together. The young Fatui that had just exited the building was a chimera from one of the more dangerous chimera families: the Ingnes. How would the young man fare against his lie?

The Ingnes were interesting, indeed.

***

"The Cavalry Captain, I know he's lying to me.
Even so, there has to be a small,
Miniscule chance Hase had to have been there recently.
Perhaps I'll run into someone else who has seen her along the way.
Logically, the more information I get on her, the better.
Eventually, perhaps, I'll finally get to see her."

Teleport Waypoint placing him in a field of grass, Siorc sauntered towards the northeast direction. Sea of nothing but grass and trees within his bespectacled field of vision, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Nature and he were currently seeing other partially human people. Temple eventually upon him within fifteen minutes, the chimera stepped onto the concrete floor. Outdoor temple underneath his feet, the one member search party continued.

Two generic Mondstadt citizens exploring the entrance, questions had been fired towards the duo. Explorers saying they had never seen her, the hyena kept walking. Perhaps, just maybe, more people would be within the Temple's outdoor walls.

Stepping on a wide platform, a sudden appearance of slimes surrounded the soldier off duty. Closing his eyes for a moment, the man's currently human hand had become a hyena paw. How incredibly rude of the Slimes to disturb his singular search party. Slashing his claws at the lesser creatures almost by instinct, the sound of defeat resounded in the area. Opening his eyes, the soldier off duty kept walking.

Moving towards the ground floor, the chimera had come across a fallen pillar. Seeing such small scale destruction, wanderlust had begun to intoxicate the hyena. Bottom ground looking like some arena, curiosity nibbled on his ear. Was The Thousand Wind Temple some sort of lost battleground? Never reading about it in any of the books in his father's study, knowledge about the area had been scarce for the early adult.

No one else being within the Temple's broken stone seats or missing walls, the chimera was readying to stage his exit. Clicking his tongue, the word gullible appeared in his evening shadow. It was just as the hyena had figured; the Cavalry Captain was a liar. Night almost about to hit him with an arrow, the soldier knew it was time to return to the permafrost north for the evening.

A sudden appearance of an unusual person had cancelled the chimera's departure within seconds.

As he was about to ready himself to teleport back to the military barracks, a new challenger had appeared within the entrance of the Thousand Wind Temple. Three meters in front of him was a tall woman with a blue violet witch hat with a red under section. Large hat covering her bangs, her radiant orchard pigtails stood out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls. Light yellow eyes looking confident, the early adult quickly examined the young lady's outfit. The woman's blue outfit had been short, but stockings of two different colors had extended the outfit especially. Ending his examination, the chimera let out an exasperated sigh, a long winded conversation of useless fortune telling was about to grace his inhuman eardrums.

"Ah, yes, you are in the presence of the Greatest Astrologist ----," the self proclaimed astrologist said. She had a high and mighty attitude with every word she spoke. "Learn my name wholly, here and now!" A name had been said by the astrologist, but the chimera could not hear it.

Astrologist thinking highly of herself, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky again. Was this woman trying to sell him the bogus scam that was fortune telling to him? He would change the subject now, once and for all. There was no time for such ridiculous nonsense. Not wishing for the astrologist to hear his voice, the chimera signed the word sister one final time for the day.

Self proclaimed astrologist staring at him, Siorc sighed in tedium. Was she about to give him a speech about astrology? If she were about to sell her bogus to him, he would not be buying it. No such transaction would ever occur.

"Alas, no, I haven't seen the sister you speak of," the bogus astrologist said. "But, of course, I could do a divination to see if you two meet in the future."

Sales pitch vibrating off his shark eardrums, the soldier off duty let out a rare scoff. There was no way the astrologist's divination would lead to anything. He knew how such group of people operated. Saying what a person wants to hear and claiming the stars spoke to them about it; it couldn't be any more of a scam to behold.

"Are you doubting my great abilities?" the bogus astrologist exclaimed. Her tone was high and mighty. "Watch and learn!" She placed her hands in front of her parallel to one another. "The Greatest Astrologist will delve into your destiny!"

As the bogus astrologist finished her scam talk, a water wheel had appeared in front of her. Turning the aquatic dial, the young woman had studied the Hydro wheel with an intensity. Nothing appearing in the center of the wheel for minutes on end, an uncharacteristic toothy smile had been plastered upon the soldier off duty's face. Astrology was indeed a scam.

"It would seem I cannot see into your future," the bogus astrologist said. "You are an anomaly in the stars."

Ridiculous fortune telling show finally reaching its end, the early adult opened the proxy map orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, he returned the map into orb form. Fast travel to the military barracks starting, he closed his eyes. Military barracks upon him within seconds, the soldier off duty returned to the soundproof room. Permafrost north's sky being pitch black upon his return, tiredness had immediately taken the chimera. Hairpins, earrings, and glasses removed, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed.

As he laid on the rock hard bed, a thought ruminated within the chambers of his partially human brain. Almost all the people that were not of generic stature that he had encountered today were affiliated with the Knights of Favonius. If barely any of the Knights had known where Hase was, the trail was going to freeze over like Snezhnaya. World of sleep about to take him, another thought played on repeat inside him.

He needed a day off from the one member search party.

***

"Can't help but get this feeling,
Hase, maybe she doesn't want me to find her,
Of all the people I asked yesterday,
Plentiful of noes and empty sightings were all I received.

She could be anywhere in Teyvat by now,
Ultimately, I know that is what is happening, really.
Evidently, I suppose, I should
Yield my search party for now."

Upon waking up for the morning, the chimera had come to the one, and only conclusion. Hase had already left Mondstadt behind. Not wishing to continue his search party on his final day off, the early adult had another idea in mind, for the day at hand. Clipping in his rabbit hairpins, the soldier off duty was ready. Highlighting the waypoint to the Shoal, the hyena closed his eyes quickly.

Teleport Waypoint placing him within the Yaoguang Shoal, the hyena stepped forward. Would the panda chimera mind his sudden uninvited appearance during his exercise routine? Panda chimera being far too lazy to ever feel angry, the soldier off duty had begun running. Surely, soon, he would catch up to them if it was one of their exercise days.

Yinlong eventually within his field of vision, the chimera halted his run. The panda chimera had been running around the beach slowly. Seeing him keeping up with his exercises, a small smile graced his face. The lazy panda he had met in Bishui Plains many years ago was almost no more. Continuing his run, the hyena stuck close to the panda.

Panda chimera eventually being alerted to his presence, their run had come to a temporary end. Sweat all over their clothes, a tired smile slowly appeared on their face. Knowing Yinlong was about to say something to him, Siorc made eye contact.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their words were slow and lulled as they always were. "Here to run with me?"

Seeing Yinlong had been hard at work, the chimera simply nodded. A slow run on the beach was never a bad time to be had, for sure. Panda chimera slowly accepting his confirmation, the two had resumed running. Beach scenery blistering through, the fitness road kept going.

Panda picking up speed, the hyena kept his running speed on the lower side. Knowing he had still been a lot faster than him, the chimera kept in pace with the panda chimera to the best of his ability. Edge of the beach eventually being reached, the two turn around with a sharp fervor.

Run coming to an end, Yinlong's pink eyes met the chimera's mismatched pupils. Seeing the slightest of sparkles in his eyes, he supposed he knew what suggestion was about to come next. Blinking for a moment, the soldier off duty kept his attention on the panda chimera.

"Man, I'm starved!" Yinlong blurted. Their words dragged on the damp wind. "Get dinner with me before you go back to Snezhnaya? I don't work at the teahouse today."

Feeling his partially human stomach rumble, the hyena simply nodded. A nice meal before returning to the permafrost north could certainly come into fruition. Removing the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket, he again turned to Yinlong. Where did he want to go, the chimera wondered.

"Highlight the Waypoint to the Harbor for me?" Yinlong asked completely on cue. "There's a food cart near my job I want to take you to."

Orb opened into map form, the chimera highlighted the waypoint in Liyue Harbor within a second. Waypoint to the Harbor confirmed, he collapsed the map back into orb form. Snezhnayan technology put away, he hooked his elbow around Yinlong's for a brief moment.

Waypoint taking the two to the food district within the Harbor, the panda chimera took the lead. Small food cart eventually being reached next to a major restaurant in the area, the two stopped walking. Generic street food vendor talking about chop suey on repeat, the early adult's lips salivated a smidgeon.

"Hello, miss Yinlong," the generic street food vendor said. "Chop suey for you and your friend?"

Yinlong's hand on top of his, the chimera let out a tired sigh. Was he going to insist on treating him again? He supposed there was nothing he could do about it. He knew refusing to let someone treat him was considered rude.

"Yes, Ms. Su Er'niang," Yinlong replied in a lulled tone. "Two 'cheap and tasty' Chop Sueys, please!" The line the generic food vendor had said on repeat had possessed the panda chimera like a ghost from Wuwang Hill.

Dishes being given, and Mora being paid, the two placed the food on the wooden table in front of them. Regulars being away, at the moment, the two placed themselves on the wooden stools. Stomach rumbling again, the hyena grabbed a utensil nearest to him.

Devouring the chop suey, the taste of spicy chicken hit the hyena's throat. While the momentary spice of the meat made their roar known, the food was delectable, nonetheless. Waiting for Yinlong to finish, the soldier off duty stared off into silence. Panda chimera eventually finishing his meal, as well, he knew it was time to return to the permafrost north.

"Thank you, sir," he said, slight emotion present in his voice. "The chop suey was wonderful." Tilting his head upward, dusk was about to grace the sky. He knew now more than ever, it was time to leave. Her Majesty could return to Snezhnaya at any moment. Time was running out. "I must take my leave now." Raising from the wooden chair, voice returning to one without emotion, thoughts of Her Majesty's return crunched on his ear. "It was very nice seeing you again."

Yinlong's face quickly twisted into a somber look. Siorc had to go back to Snezhnaya already? Such a shame, it was. But, they knew Fatui had busy lives ahead of them. Before he were to teleport back home, they figured one last goodbye could be uttered. Maybe another day of boy time alone could happen again in the near future? He figured it would not hurt to ask before he were to leave for a long time to come.

"It was nice seeing you again, too," they replied, words slowing down even more than usual. "If you have any free time in the future, let's have some boy time alone again!" He waved to the chimera slowly, readying to say one final thing. "I'll keep up with the exercise. The Opera Troupe auditions are soon! Next time we meet, maybe I'll finally be in boss's opera troupe!" A yawn presented itself as they finished speaking. A nice nap after a meal would soon be in order.

Waving back to the panda, all emotion had been gone from the chimera's face. It was time to go back to Snezhnaya. Back to his forced upon homeland for a workday of nothing tomorrow. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, tiredness had begun to creep around inside him.

Steel walled room soon upon him, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Everything being removed, and uniform off, Siorc closed his eyes. Thoughts from the other day about Hase crawling around like a crab on the beach, the words inside him played on repeat as the world of sleep was inviting him in.

Hase could be anywhere in Teyvat by now. Had the citizens of Mondstadt lied about seeing her in the area recently? The chimera did not know, but the hyena knew one thing for certain, and one thing only. Even if Hase did not want to be found, the young man would not falter.

The one member search party would resume next holiday off, for sure.

4. Dandelion Wine And Stress Building

"Don't know why, but days are beginning to blend together for me,
All this mundane amount of nothing,
Nothing feels like time is truly passing.
Days on repeat, are months truly going by?
Every day feels the same, deliveries, business affairs, the
Loop is never-ending. Turning, repeating.
I'm sure it's because I'm obedient.
Obedience is key to successful living.
No longer is shirking work an option.

While everything is monotonous,
It is imperative I remain loyal, silent, diligent.
No matter what, that is key.
Even if the days are looping, this is how it must be."

Three months had passed since the one member search party had resumed. Nothing of especial note happened within the adult chimera's diplomatic soldier life. Deliveries in Dragonspine returning with a vengeance, nothing had been out of the ordinary for the hyena.

During his various deliveries in Dragonspine, the pest of a penguin chimera would make his unceremonious return. Buzzing around the early adult like a Cicin, the chimera would not provide the attention the pesky fly wished for. Inconvenience leaving right before he were to return to the Agent, no whistles were blown upon the chimera.

Despite such, the Agent's threats would not cease. Threats on his life increasing since the debt collecting ordeal, stress had begun to hug the chimera from behind. Knowing if he stopped working, even for a moment, the threats of violence would come into fruition, the young soldier remained diligent. Diligence was key to successful living as a Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.

Deliveries would sink to the bottom of Cider Lake for the day.

The sound of morning alarm bells resounded through the area with a discordant harmony. As the alarm bells struck with a fervor, the sound of hundreds of Fatui Soldiers groaned in a cacophony. The alarm bells were right on time, as usual. Absolutely no soldier was ready for the day at hand. Despite such protest, every single soldier remained loyal.

The multitude of groans were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Groans drowning out any sort of alarm bells, the early adult rose from the uncomfortable bed. Glasses on, the chimera was ready. Time never being his, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

While dressing in his uniform, a small wave of confidence flooded through the hyena. Would another day of deliveries in the lesser permafrost north await him today? Work being monotonous lately, the pattern would continue onward into the day before him as well, surely.

Knowing the Agent could arrive at any moment, the chimera clicked his hairpins and earrings into place. Buttons snapped into the correct holes, the soldier had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Any minute now, the Agent would arrive to relay his mundane orders of deliveries, for sure.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increase in volume, the soldier put on the most diligent face possible. Changes in his routine being unlikely, the early adult would not falter. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his mundane workday of nothing to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "We are headed to Mondstadt today to purchase wine for Her Majesty." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Another day, another purchasing ordeal.

The chimera jumped three steps back upon hearing he would be purchasing wine in Mondstadt today. Just how long had it been since he had purchased wine for Her Majesty? The young soldier did not know. Time had begun to blend together in the mundane emptiness of monotony.

Mondstadt echoing within the chambers of his partially human brain, the chimera stared off into space. Her Majesty, why did she want wine in Mondstadt again? The chimera did not know, but he knew no such question was allowed to live his lips.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. He never knew what could possibly be on his subordinate's mind, but he knew the exact words to bring the chimera back into reality. "We have no time for this dawdling! Unless you wish to meet your end, get a move on!"

Siorc jumped another four steps back upon hearing his life being on the line. No dawdling; right, time was not his when he was on the nonexistent clock. Despite monotony being shot on the battlefield with a sniper, accepting his orders was all he could do.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Routine or not, he knew he had to keep on working. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living. Arm being held out, the young soldier awaited for the gripping prison to take him, like it usually did.

Seeing the soldier hold his arm out, the Agent placed the wine cooler bag onto the soldier's back. Bag of Cryo activity firmly planted on his backside, the subordinate returned his attention to his commander in arms within an instant.

"Excellent, let's get going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm being held out, he gripped the arm tight enough to bruise. Gripping prison being relentless as always, the chimera closed his eyes. Bag on his back releasing a chill, the hyena shivered as if sheer cold was about to take him away. As the teleportation to Mondstadt began, a thought rolled around in his partially human brain.

He had to get the right wine today.

***

Upon reaching the capital city in Mondstadt through the Teleport Waypoint, the Agent instructed Siorc to head for the Tavern on the opposite end of the city. Having been removed from the gripping prison, the early adult was ready to begin his wine purchasing duties. Agent walking off towards the exit of the city, a gulp released itself from the esophagus.

The two of them were purchasing wine in separate areas of Mondstadt today.

Recalling how to get to Angel's Share from memory, the chimera headed towards the ever familiar staircase. Descending the long grey staircase, the soldier headed towards the right. Another staircase in front of him, the hyena ascended the second set of stairs. Unattended produce stall within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision, the hyena kept walking forward.

Usual drunkards sitting about at their seats, the early adult heaved a sigh. Nation of Freedom or not, the man could never fathom what was so great about the buzzed fruit juice. Never seeing his parents drink any in his stolen childhood, the world of wine was a mystery to him. Shaking his head, the soldier walked towards the tavern door. There was no time. The hourglasses' sand was dropping faster with every second.

Door opened, the soldier stepped into the tavern in complete silence. World of brown engulfing him, the chimera walked towards the bar stools. But, as he walked forward, a particular face stood out to him. Behind the counter was a long red haired man with his hair in a ponytail, a fancy black suit, and permanent angry disposition. Seeing such person, a second gulp released itself from the esophagus.

The Angel Share's owner, what was he doing in the tavern during the daytime hours? Didn't he usually run the bar at night? Generic mustache man not on duty for the day, far nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. The owner of Angel's Share, he despised the Fatui with a passion. If the man were to recognize him, a challenge would await him on the battlefield. However, another oddity made its roar known on the tavern battlefield.

"One more, barkeep!" a high pitched voice called out. A gross hiccup echoed throughout the area.

Turning his head to the owner of the voice, the hyena examined the drunkard, for a moment. Walking towards the counter was a young man around his height. Or so the chimera thought. Appearances and identities did not always align with one another. The possible man had short blue hair with teal gradients. The hair was pulled up into two braids. Green hat with a white flower to the side of it matching their eyes, the chimera stared at the person's outfit. The person's green outfit with a brown button down in the center, it was nothing like he had ever seen before. What era was that outfit from? The chimera had no idea, but he knew he had no time for any questions.

"You've had enough," the Angel Share's owner stated bluntly. His arms were crossed around his chest.

Hearing such conversation play out, the chimera let out an exasperated sigh. If their conversation were to continue any longer, the Agent would return from his side of the work. But, his parents always told him interrupting a conversation was rude. He supposed he would have to wait, for the time being.

"I'll play you a tune for more!" the short drunkard said. "What d'ya say?" Another gross hiccup echoed throughout the tavern.

Bribery making its rounds, a glass had been poured for the drunkard. Braided possible boy taking his seat, the chimera again walked towards the bar stools. Drunkard drinking happily, the hyena's possibly human rear and the bar stool met. No matter how many years were to pass, Mondstadt was still intoxicated by wine.

Angel Share's owner looking at him, a Cryo chill had crawled down the early adult's spine. The angry look on his face, was he going to kick him out? Last time he had to purchase wine from the tavern, he could tell the man did not want a Fatui's business here. But, the chimera knew the choice was not his. If he did not get the wine Her Majesty asked for, his life would be over for sure.

"You again," the Angel Share's owner said. Words as blunt as ever. "What do you want?" His arms were still crossed around his chest.

Not wishing for the Angel Share's owner to hear his voice, the chimera placed his currently human hand in front of him. Right hand in front of the counter, he folded his pinkie, ring finger and thumb into a closed position. Index and middle finger sticking out as if the fingers were walking. Leaving the letter up for a moment, the hyena moved on to the next one. Forming his fingers into an L shape, he moved onto the next letter. Returning his fingers into a closed position, he stuck up two fingers upward. Final letter requiring no fingers, he placed his hand into a slightly open fist. Plum spelled out, the soldier moved onto the next sign. Left hand beside the counter, he linked his thumb and index finger into an okay symbol. Circling his left hand around his cheek, he was ready to move onto the final sign. Right hand released from the fist, he jerked his fingers towards his lips. Placing his hands into a circular position he moved them outward. Sugar free plum wine signed he made eye contact with the owner. Would this work? He knew not everyone understood wordless languages.

Redhead shaking his head, defeat made itself known. He supposed it was a given at this point that not everyone was going to understand. Owner stepping out for a minute, a piece of paper and quilled pen had been handed to the chimera. Paper and quill in front of him, the man wrote down the words sugar-free plum wine. Sentence written, he placed the sheet into the Angel Share owner's black gloves.

Man studying the paper, Siorc let out a tertiary gulp. Was his handwriting incomprehensible? Angry disposition not leaving for even a moment, reading his face was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Red haired ball of anger stepping out for a moment, the soldier remained patient. Bottles of wine coming his way after about five minutes, the early adult undid the velcro on the bag. Bottles placed into the wine cooler, he snapped the velcro shut.

Removing the mora pouch from one of the side pockets, the chimera placed the coins down on the table. Price paid in full, the soldier removed himself from the barstool. Heading towards the door, he knew he had to leave the tavern this instant. Surely, by now, the Agent had to have been done with his side of the work. If he were to be kept waiting, Her Majesty would be alerted about his tardiness, for sure.

Redheaded man opening the door for him, the early adult bowed a thank you. Look of disdain still present, the soldier exited the tavern as quickly as his currently human legs could allow. The more minutes that were to pass, the more anger would be thrown his way.

Tavern behind him, the soldier descended the staircase from earlier. Seeing the Agent only just make his return as he did, relief washed over the chimera. Had the Agent only just returned to the area? If such were indeed the case, luck and the Archons had to have been on his side, for a change. Subordinate turning to him, the hyena handed the Cryo wine bag back to the Agent.

Watching as the Agent opened the bag and studied the wine, dread made a meal out of the hyena. The Angel's Share owner, could he have given him the wrong wine? His luck could run out within a matter of seconds. Not sensing any anger from him, a tired sigh released from the man's throat. Luck had sounded its victory horn.

"Excellent, soldier," spoke the Fatui Agent, confidence leaking in his voice. "Let's go deliver this to Her Majesty." Closing the wine cooler, he placed the bag back on his subordinate's back.

Waypoint to the palace highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes on instinct. As the fast travel began, sense of dread had instantly returned. It had been since the punishment incident the hyena had seen her last. Despite such occurring various months prior, the water could still be hot.

Being outside the palace within fifteen seconds, the young soldier opened his eyes. He could feel his heart racing as he traced his hands upon the Fatui symbol. Door opening, dread devoured the chimera as he sauntered through the entranceway at a Ruin Guard's walking pace.

If Her Majesty was dissatisfied, the hot water could boil over.

***

Closing the doors behind him, the chimera walked onto the blue carpet with due diligence. Wine cooler continuing its freezing reign behind him, the hyena shivered with every step he took. Cryo Archon eventually in front front of him, the early adult bowed his head to her in submission. Raising his head, his heart had begun to beat harder in his chest. Her Majesty's left leg was crusted into her right thigh. Her cyan eyes looked impatient. Had Her Majesty not received any wine in awhile? He knew he had no permission to ask her any questions. Readying the wine cooler, sweat formed on the man's brow.

"You brought me my wine?" Her Majesty asked royally. "Give it here, my lovely chimera. It better be the right one." Her words were cold, and sharp.

Doing as instructed, the early adult handed the Cryo Archon the freezing bag of wine cooling. Velcro coming undone, Her Majesty removed a wine bottle from the bag. As she read the label, dread grabbed a hold of his neck. If the wine had even a single gram of sugar in it, his life would be over, for sure.

Seeing a crooked smile appear on the Tsaritsa's lips, a wave of relief crashed over him like a torrent of water rarely seen in the permafrost north. Was luck still within his reach today? But, he knew, whatever Her Majesty was about to say to him would change the tides within an instant.

"You got the right wine this time, my lovely chimera," Her Majesty said coldly. Her words were soft, but demeaning. "I expect you to bring me Dandelion Wine tomorrow." She caressed her property's cheek. "Don't disappoint me." She continued to caress her property's cheek, dry ice touching it slightly.

Feeling the cold glove touch his cheeks, the chimera let out an inaudible gulp. She wanted wine again tomorrow, as well? Hearing her say to not disappoint her, dread squeezed the young soldier tighter. Was the water between them still boiling? The hyena did not know, but he knew one thing for certain. Disappointing Her Majesty at the moment would lead to his end.

"Yes, Your Majesty," he replied autonomously, voice barely audible. He had to get the right wine again tomorrow, if he wished to keep on living.

Archon eventually removing her gloves from his cheek, the soldier bowed his head to Her Majesty one final time. Agent tapping his boots from behind him, he knew it was time for him to head for the military barracks. Sprinting towards the exit, the chimera opened the doors with a silent roar. Doors closed behind him, his heelless shoes and the snow met.

Wind raging like a wolf spirit in Wolvendom, the chimera trudged forward. The snow was deep, and relentless, as usual. But, he had to keep moving. Standing still for even a moment would lead to dangerous freezing. Shoes sinking into the snow multiple times as his walk forward continued, the soldier clicked his tongue. If his legs didn't transform randomly, wearing boots would be no problem for the hyena, but such outcome was not possible within his lifetime.

Military barracks upon him after hours, the chimera kept walking. Soundproof room nearing, his legs erupted into a quick sprint. Having returned to the steel walled room, he undid the buttons upon his uniform. Glasses and accessories removed, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Tiredness taking him within an instant, the chimera closed his eyes as the world of sleep was calling out to him.

He had to get Dandelion Wine tomorrow.

Disappointing Her Majesty would lead to his end for sure, this time.

***

"Could Her Majesty still be angry with me?
After all, time is truly bleeding together lately,
Time is hard to keep track of lately.
Sometimes I ponder, has it really only been a few days?

The months that are passing, has it really been that way?
All I can feel is everything repeating,
It must be my imagination, surely,
Likely is, time is moving forward, it has to be."

Returning to capital city of Mondstadt after the Agent had come for him in the morning, Siorc was ready. Subordinate instructing him to head for the Cat's Tail today, the soldier was resolute. Agent leaving shortly after having his orders relayed to him, the chimera walked forward. Fatui Diplomats talking amongst themselves, the early adult proceeded with caution.

Staircase more than fifty meters away from the waypoint, the chimera's legs erupted into an astronomically fast sprint. Time was not a virtue when he was on the nonexistent clock. Odd man standing inside the fountain, the young soldier breezed through the area as if the wind had thrust him forward. Wooden sign with a black cat on it within a short distance, the chimera walked through the small space.

Wooden stairs sitting in the grass, the hyena ascended. Wooden door in front of him, the chimera attempted with all his might to open the door, but it would not budge. Knob not turning, the soldier let out a frustrated grunt. Why was the door not opening? It was almost as if, in a world outside of Teyvat, such door had no warp assigned to it, and the entrance was merely a decoration that lead to nowhere.

Entrance into the Cat's Tail being completely impossible, the early adult descended the staircase. Maybe the tavern was closed during the day? He supposed such could have been the case. Although, as such possibility had been presented to him, an odd person had been eyeing him.

Glaring at him with an almost catty look had been a short young lady maybe fifteen centimeters shorter than him. The young girl had short pink hair that went down to about her shoulders. Front part tied up with a ribbon with two balls of fuzz attached to it, her forehead had been far more visible than anyone else's within Teyvat. Above the pulled back bangs had been a large navy blue hat. The hat was round, almost crown like in stature. What an odd hat the young lady was wearing, but such oddity had not been the only one. Within the young lady's hair had been cat's ears. Seeing a tail on her backside as well, the hyena had come to wonder in an instant: had this young girl been a chimera? Whether she was or not was no business of his, he supposed. Light green eyes looking irritable as his examination continued, the soldier stopped looking at the possible chimera glaring daggers his way.

"Hmph, what do you want?" the cat girl pouted. Her arms were crossed against her tiny body. "Here for a drink? Ugh, all you adults ever think about is drinking!" Her words had an unusually high amount of prissiness to them.

Catty as her ears were, the chimera backed seven steps away. Staircase ascended backwards, his hands were stretched out in front of him. Waving his hands about, sweat had begun to form at his brow. Had she gotten the wrong impression? He supposed he had no choice but to point out his forced upon affiliation to her. Returning to the grass, he pointed at the insignias on his uniform.

"You're not here for a drink? Fine," the cat girl exclaimed in an exasperated tone. "What does she want to drink, then?" All her words were prickly, and catty.

Realizing the day would be a difficult one, the chimera did not wish to communicate with words. Sitting down on the wooden stairs, the hyena looked into the young lady's eyes. Hands out in front of him, he placed his left index finger underneath his lips. Lips in an o shape, he placed his right hand into an o shape, as well. Right hand and lips meeting, he blew air upon his right hand. Five fingers now out, he moved the hand off to the right in a flutter motion. Dandelion being signed, he proceeded to the second one. Singing the word wine like he had the other day. Dandelion wine wordlessly communicated, he continued to looked into the cat girl's eyes. Would this work? The girl looked no older than an early teenager. He knew understanding wordless gestures was not universal.

Girl opening a small cat paw bag on the side of her shorts, a small notepad had been removed from the contents. Quilled pen accompanying the notepad, the cat girl strutted forward. Seeing such equipment in hand, failure waved its white flag on the battlefield. Yet another person had not understood his signs. He supposed it could not be helped. Notepad on his lap within fourteen seconds, the cat girl's arms had been crossed around her small body again.

"Man, all you adults are weirdos!" the cat girl pouted. Her words had a hint of rudeness present throughout. "Just write it down!"

Quill in hand, Siorc wrote down the words dandelion wine on the notepad with due diligence. But, no matter how many minutes passed, the question inside him would not cease existing. Writing down, "Are you a chimera?" towards the bottom of the page on the notepad, he returned the pen and paper to their rightful owner. Inappropriate question written, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Curiosity was a disgusting beast of burden.

Watching as the cat girl eyed the paper, dread had nibbled on his ear as an irritable look had formed upon the young lady's face. "A chimera?" The cat girl responded, disgusted tone in voice. "That's an insult to the Kätzlein bloodline!"

Cat girl dashing off for a moment, ingredients had been in her hands upon her return. Seeing a multitude of flowers in her small white gloves, the hyena turned up his nose. Flowers and he were still seeing other partially human people.

Young bartender on duty, the cat girl placed a Sweet Flower in a bottle. Why was she doing that? What did the sweet flowers need to be placed inside a bottle for? Milk poured in seconds after, the small hands then dropped a Windwheel Aster into the concoction. Why were there so many flowers in the bottle? So many questions were brewing inside him, but he knew he could not ask any. Dandelion seeds in her hand next, and ice cubes thrown in, the young lady shook the bottle of wine.

Concoction finishing up, the chimera blinked in bewilderment. Just what in the world had the cat girl just brewed? Is this the wine Her Majesty truly wanted? If it weren't he knew his life would be over, for sure. Drink handed to him, the young lady's rudeness boomeranged back around into his shark eardrums.

"Here's Her Majesty's Dandelion Wine," the cat girl said, pouting even louder than before. "Next time, I'll ruin her drink!"

Siorc's heart skipped more than six beats upon hearing the cat girl declare she would ruin Her Majesty's drink next time. He knew, if her drink was even a little off, everything would be over. Punishment replaying in his head as her words lingered inside him for a moment, a scream broke loose from the hyena's throat. There was no way he could allow such to happen if he were sent to get wine in Mondstadt again in the future.

Taking a deep breath, and placing the wine into the freezing bag of Cryo activity, the young soldier left the area. Agent eventually returning after awhile, the two teleported to the palace within an instant. Wine delivered, and no anger present on Her Majesty's face, another successful day had been conquered. The Archon not mentioning she wanted wine tomorrow, the chimera exited the palace solo.

As he trudged through the snow, a grim thought had entered the man's mindscape. The cat girl, she showed a large amount of disgust over the suggestion of her being a chimera. Shoes sinking into the snow beneath him, a bitter memory had bared its fangs. His mother had always told him in his stolen childhood to be careful about his hyena traits being present. Was being a chimera disgusting to some people? Lifting his feet out of the snow, the soldier kept trudging.

World of white still before him, another bitter memory chomped down on the hyena's ear. The Agent a few years back had told him to keep his hyena limbs under control in public. The cat girl's disgust, The Agent's anger, and his mother's concern in the past, it all spoke volumes louder than he could manage to tune out.

Humanity must have found chimeras to be disgusting creatures.

Military barracks upon him after hours travelled, his heart had begun to beat rapidly. Even if the world was disgusted by chimeras, control had been beyond the scope of his ability. Biology was a cruel beast impossible to alter without dangerous means. Steel walled room upon him, the chimera threw himself into the uncomfortable bed. Everything off, he stared off into the darkness.

He knew, even if chimeras disgusted people, there was nothing that could be done about it. His arms and legs transformed at random; his tail would pop out when least convenient. He supposed, being able to retract his limbs back into human ones had its perks if people were distasteful.

Feeling a wave of tiredness overtake him, the chimera closed his eyes. Heartbeat not dissipating even for a moment, a battle for peaceful sleep had roared about in the night before him. World of sleep eventually taking him, one final thought poked the chambers of his fading brain.

Chimeras were unwanted in the world of Teyvat.

***
Upon waking up the next morning, many harsh realities had presented themselves to the hyena. Agent's threats against his life pressing on, the early adult knew now, more than ever. At any moment, his life could be over. Despite his loyalty as of late, one wrong move, and his life would be extinguished.

Having been taken to the training grounds for the day, the chimera breathed in quickly. Any moment now, the Sixth Harbinger would speak. Feeling a wave of anxiety grab his throat into a tight squeeze, the hyena stepped six steps back. His practice partner, did he find chimeras disgusting, as well? Fear continued to grip his throat tight. World around him numbing, the tap of his training partner did not register. Readiness had left the building. Tap having eventually registered, the early adult turned to his training partner in silence. He could not falter. Time was not a virtue in the frozen northern land.

"Ingne? Is something wrong?" his training partner asked. "You seem kind of spaced out today." His partner attempted to hide his concern with a laugh, but his tone spoke louder than his words.

Siorc shook his head at his practice partner's question. Even if he could say something, he knew it would be considered complaining. Complaints were not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier. Walking forward towards the weapons, no words had been said. Practice partner not saying anything as their walk marched onward, the soldier grabbed his beginner claymore hurriedly. The Sixth Harbinger would announce himself at any moment. Claymore in hand, and bow and arrow basket on his partner's back, the two walked back to the training grounds. As they returned, the Sixth Harbinger's maliciousness sounded.

"Look at you lazy and stupid soldiers, get to training!" the Sixth Harbinger said with a malicious tone of voice. He then turned to Siorc. "Well, if it isn't the blind one! Egor, come over here!" Command making itself known, the practice partner walked over to the Sixth. "Make yourself useful, and have him dodge these." Sinister light blue orb in his hands, he placed the Fatui creation in Egor's gloves with a hard slam.

Delusion gifted to him, the practice partner clipped the sinister orb into place. Black aura seeping through, the training partner sighed under his mask. Did he really have to hurl Cryo arrows at his future combatant in arms? But, orders were orders. Disobeying his superiors was not an option.

Seeing his practice partner clip a sinister orb onto his uniform, the chimera jumped seven steps back. He could feel his heart beat unevenly in his chest. The Sixth Harbinger, was he asking his practice partner to hurl elemental arrows at him today? If such were the case, he knew he had no choice in the matter. Taking a deep breath, the hyena readied himself.

The practice partner fastened his bow with diligence. Holding the shot for a moment, the arrow glowed with an icy aura. Releasing the arrow of Cryo property, it had begun travelling within close proximity of the chimera target before him. Knowing his partner had good reflexes, he could feel a wave of confidence leak throughout his generic body.

As the icy arrow had soared at lightning speed, immediate panic had left deep bruises on his throat. Not having experience with the elements in awhile, the chimera's mind blanked in seconds. Arrow inching closer, the hyena's legs shook rapidly. As the travelling of the arrow had ended, he could feel the ice collide with his uniform. Metal arrow and delusion created ice entwined with his shoulder, a labored scream echoed throughout the area. The ice, he could feel it freezing him.

World numbing around him, and ice continuing to freeze him slightly, the familiar sound of the Harbinger in charge reached his inhuman eardrums. His sinister laugh was relentless, like it always had been.

"Slow and blind," the Sixth Harbinger exclaimed in a demeaning tone. "How rich!" An even deeper laugh erupted in an uproar from the small man's throat.

Removing the arrow from his practice partner's shoulder, the training partner looked into the chimera's eyes. The look in his mismatched eyes was one of fear. Fear was a normal emotion when dealing with situations that were new, or strange for someone. Knowing how to deal with nervous soldiers, he placed his gloved hand on his partner's unaffected shoulder. He would remind his subordinate of the breathing exercises he had taught him previously.

"Are you afraid?" the training partner asked in a soft tone. Removing his hand from his shoulder, he held the chimera's currently human hands in silence, for a moment. The man had begun his reminder of the breathing exercises. "Take a deep breath, okay, Ingne? Deep breaths." Breathing within him in tandem, the sun of a man tried to keep a steady pace. "If you're scared, I'll lessen the Cryo infusion on my arrows. It's okay."

Taking a deep breath, fear was a dead soldier in the snow outside. While he knew fear would make him meet his end on a real battlefield, practicing was an entirely different animal. Tail accidentally sticking out as his breaths ended, the soldier closed his eyes. Tail retracting itself, he returned his focus to his training partner. His tail disgusted him in those few seconds, for certain.

Gripping the greatsword tight, the soldier steeled himself. Delusion or not, he knew he had to be ready to deflect the arrows coming at him. Nodding to his practice partner, he readied for the arrows of sinister icy activity to come his way.

Taking the nod as confirmation, the soldier fastened his bow for a second time. Holding the shot for a few seconds, the arrow glowed with an icy aura again. Releasing the arrow of dark elemental properties, the arrow shot through the area with a sinister roar. Weapon travelling within close proximity of its chimera target before him, sweat formed at the practice partner's brow. Delusions were exhausting.

Second arrow bolting forward, the hyena jumped five steps back. Arrow being dodged but not deflected, multiple rounds of arrows had been shot afterwards. Dodges only occurring for most of the shots, the chimera tried to regain focus. Her Majesty, if she had seen him only dodging, disappointment would grace her for sure. Focus; he had to focus. The choice was not his.

Final arrow in the basket bolting forward with an icy roar, Siorc lifted his claymore beside him. Arrow inching closer, the chimera jumped another five steps back with weapon in hand. Swinging the two handed sword in front of him, the arrow of ice and the claymore had met graciously. Arrow speeding into the opposite direction, it darted towards a target in the distance with beauty.

Arrow being deflected, and multiple dodges registering, the soldier lowered his claymore. Energy depleting, he sunk down to his currently human knees. Feeling his energy continue to drain as the seconds raged on inexorably, an odd thought placed itself within the chambers of his partially human brain. Did fighting delusions suck the energy of the one fighting them? Not knowing much about the sinister orbs, anything was possible.

Noticing how tired his partner had become, he knew it was time to end training for the day. The Sixth Harbinger's reign being relentless, deflecting only one arrow would have to do, for today. Delusions were a dangerous tool of Her Majesty's war. Feeling energy deplete from the use of the sinister orb as well, ending now was for the best. Raising his combatant in arms to his feet, the time to end training had to become of him now.

"You did good today, Ingne," the training partner said, words tired. "We're stopping here, for today." Despite how lethargic his words were, kindness would not cease even for a moment. "I'll see you next time." He removed the claymore from his partner's hand and placed it into the bow and arrow basket. "I'll go put the weapons back now. Go get some rest." Weapons taken, the generic soldier exited the area.

Dismissal being granted, the chimera had begun his return to the soundproof room. As his walk to the military barracks marched onward, the words the Sixth Harbinger said about him echoed throughout the chambers of his partially human brain. He was stupid and blind. The Balladeer's words, they had cut like a Wolf's Gravestone. Stupid, and blind, and a disgusting chimera.

Soundproof room nearing, he could feel his heart beat rapidly at a painful rate. But, he knew he had to keep going. The choice was not his. If he were to collapse now, the Sixth Harbinger's words would be right. Steel walled room upon him, hairpins and earrings removed he weakly slumped into the uncomfortable bed.

Everything removed, his heart beat harder in his chest as he laid down on the rock hard bed. Closing his eyes, the words echoed within his mind as the world of tormented sleep awaited him. Being called a chimera was an insult to the Kätzlein bloodline; he was stupid and blind; the world didn't want him. Heart continuing to beat unevenly, one final thought pulsed through the him as sleep was about to take him away.

Stress was becoming a monster inside him.

---

Diona is so mean...

I wrote this before Sumeru came out, so this will be a fourth wall breaking mess.

Branch Off 1. (5). Knowledgeable Rainforest Mirage

"Sumeru seems to be my reckoning lately,
Ultimately, it is delivery after delivery,
Mundaneness and monotony,
Everything is exactly the same, daily.
Really, it is what it is, diligence is key.
'Unless I wish to meet my end, get a move on,' like the Agent always says, I need to keep working.

Agent's threats are increasing lately
Cannot fathom why, I'm working, haven't done anything to displease him.
All and all, I have been doing as he tells me,
Don't know why the water is still hot,
Especially considering my track record, recently.
Maybe it truly hasn't been a few months, but a few days,
I'm starting to lose track of time in this mundane monotony.
All of these months past, are they

Really only days?
Even as time keeps passing, it is all blurring together
Fatui work will remain my reckoning,
Until Her Majesty has no use for me anymore,
Guess these momentary days will continue dragging out
Even, so I need to keep working,
Every day I must remain obedient, diligent, silent. That is key. "

Twenty nine days had passed since the return of purchasing wine in Mondstadt had transpired within the adult chimera's Fatui life. Nothing of particular note happened within the near month passing. Twenty nine days of deliveries in Sumeru marching onward, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

During the hyena's various deliveries, it had come to the chimera's attention. All of his deliveries had him cut through the rainforest. However, an oddity had occurred within the tropical world of green. The fawn chimera had not been around as often. Paths only crossing a few times, traversing to the next area was no problem for the young soldier. Not seeing them around the rainforest, the chimera had come to wonder: had something happened to the gazelle? He supposed it was not his business, if something had arisen within their life.

Despite such work going as it normally did, the Agent's threats would not cease, even for a moment. Threats on his life increasing exponentially since the wine purchasing ordeal, stress continued to hug the chimera from behind. Knowing if he stopped working, even for a moment, the threats would turn into violence, the young soldier remained vigilant.

Today, the monster would begin its reign inside him.

Upon waking up that morning, immediate dizziness had overtaken the hyena. Uneven heartbeat greeting him as well as the hyena's eyes opened, the monster was right behind him. Time not being his while on the nonexistent clock, the chimera rose from the bed. Taking a quick deep breath, and glasses being on, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he rose to his currently human feet, the dizziness would not cease, even for a moment. The monster inside him was a beast of burden. Wooziness continuing its reign within, the chimera staggered forward. Uniform drawers in front of him, the room spun ever so slightly. Knowing at any moment, the Agent could arrive, the hyena closed his mismatched eyes. Perhaps, just maybe, muscle memory could guide him instead.

As he dressed in his uniform, subdued confidence flooded inside the early adult. Knowing another day of mundane deliveries awaited him, the chimera was ready. Weakness or not, another day of deliveries would be a simple task, for sure. Buttons clicked into the incorrect holes, the soldier opened his eyes. Buttons being in the correct holes or not, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Rations beings devoured, the world had begun to spin less. Focus regained, the chimera undid the buttons on his uniform. Clasps closed into the correct holes, the soldier reached for his hairpin and earring box. Accessories and jewelry clicked into place, the hyena stared at the door in front of him. Any minute now, the Agent would relay the orders of deliveries, for sure.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increase in volume, the chimera was ready. Changes in his routine being unlikely, the young soldier would not falter. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena put on the most diligent face possible. The time had come for his monotonous workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," called out the Agent on cue. "You are delivering supplies in the Sumeru desert today." Supply bag in hand, the masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate. Another day, another separate affair.

Hearing the predictable order relayed to him, the early adult stared at the Agent's mask. Thirty days in a row of this, just how many Fatui had been lost in the deserts of Sumeru? The chimera did not know, but he supposed nothing could be done about it. He knew he had to follow orders, the choice was not his.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again, aggravated tone in voice. "Did you hear me? You are delivering supplies in Sumeru again today!" He never knew what could have possibly been on the soldier's mind besides work, but he knew the exact words to bring his subordinate back into reality. "We do not have time for this dawdling! If you don't wish to meet your end, get a move on!"

Siorc flinched upon hearing his life being on the line. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock, his time was Her Majesty's, not his. Fatui lost in the dessert or not, he knew he had to keep working. The choice was not his. The hourglasses' sand was falling to the bottom faster.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Arm being held out, the early adult waited for the gripping prison to take him, like it always had.

Seeing the soldier hold his arm out, he placed the bag of supplies on his back with a firm slam. Satchel secured on the soldier's back, the Agent gripped his subordinate's wrist tighter than ever before. Grip being as tight as a choker around the neck, the hyena closed his eyes.

"Good, we're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Gripping prison already taking him, the escort to Sumeru began. As the teleportation to the area had started, a question formed inside the chimera's partially human brain.

The fawn, would he run into them today?

***

"Maybe I can still keep running, yes I have to!
Yes, I have to keep running, my

Brother, he's coming. He's coming.
Right, I have to keep running, I have to keep running
Or he'll find me. Run, I have to keep running
The harsh words he'll say to me, I don't want to hear them, I have to keep running.
He's coming! he's coming, he's coming!
Every day, I hear his gazelle legs approach the forest,
Right, I have to run away, I don't want to hear him, his words are terrifying.

If I don't keep running, he will find me, that can't happen.
So I have to keep running, that is my only option, I have to keep running, I have to keep running.

He's coming, he's coming, he's coming!
Every day, he's coming closer,
Reaching my location, the lines, now they're shorter.
Even now, I think I can hear him. I have to keep running, I have to keep running!"

Upon reaching an unknown city of Sumeru through the teleport waypoint, the early adult stared off into the distance. Everything had been grey and colorless, as usual. Green of the rainforest to the left still being the only color, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Having been removed from the gripping prison, the chimera was ready for the days of deliveries to begin.

Agent exiting to the Sumeru Akademiya as his orders were repeated to him, the soldier sauntered onward into the sea of green. City of grey inching away as the seconds turned into minutes, the familiar green graced his currently human feet. Knowing which direction to go in if he wished to reach the desert in due time, the chimera walked westward.

Continuing his journey through the west path of the area, the sound of graceful footsteps had soon followed behind the hyena. As the sounds only got louder, the chimera halted his walk. But, an oddity had presented itself as the footsteps had gotten louder. The sound of the prancing steps, they sounded frantic, desperate; terrified. Regardless of such, the man resumed his walk. Whatever the gazelle chimera had to say, there was no time for any outward distractions. Reaching the desert had to come of him now.

Travelling onward was cancelled like his training on a harsh, snowy day. Feeling a body pressed against his, the added weight halted his walk for the second time of the day. Knowing the fawn chimera had been right behind him, Siorc allowed a heavy sigh release from the partially human esophagus. Just what did they want? He had no time for the gazelle's shenanigans.

"Look, I know you're working," Parisa said, words shaking. "But, hide me!" There was a major amount of stress evident in her voice.

Hearing the fawn's words, the chimera allowed a second heavy sigh to release from the esophagus. Whatever sinister plot she may have been planning, it was not going to work. Hide her? Absolutely impossible, the fawn was much taller. There was no possible way he could hide someone many centimeters larger than he behind his heavily layered back. Plucking their fingers off of him, the soldier walked forward. The shoulders had to remain cold.

"I cannot, miss," the chimera replied coldly. "I have work." Continuing his walk forward, the shoulders would remain frozen solid.

As his walk westward continued, the frantic, but graceful footsteps would not cease. Wrist grabbed within seconds, the hyena let out an aggravated grunt. The fawn, why were they persisting on following behind him? Whatever it was that they wanted, he could not provide whatever it was that they desired.

"Please, I know you're a Fatui worm," Parisa cried, voice continuing to shake. "But you have to hide me!" Her words had begun to choke up as they continued. "He's coming."

The chimera rolled his eyes to the tree filled sky. Whoever this person was the fawn was referring to, the hyena had no time to deal with any of her shenanigans. He knew, if he were to return back toward the Akademiya even a little late, a whistle would be blown upon him for sure. Prying her wrist off of him, the early adult kept walking.

Fork in the road, the chimera headed towards the westward path. But, no matter how far he traversed, the frantic, but graceful footsteps behind him continued. The fawn just wanted attention from him, surely. Not giving the gazelle the time of day, the early adult kept moving.

Hearing a multitude of sobs from his backside, the hyena halted his walk. The gazelle was insistent on interrupting him every step of the way. Even if they had really been in trouble, time was not his while his duties were upon him for the day. He knew he had to tell Parisa he could not help her, but no such words would leave the young soldier's lips. Fawn readying to speak again, a tertiary sigh echoed throughout the sea of trees.

"Look, I know I cause trouble," Parisa cried, voice shaking even worse than before. "But he can't find me, please!" There was no grace or salt to be had in their voice.

Siorc turned his head towards the trees. Didn't she have a Vision? Whoever it was that was coming, surely she could defeat them with a singular torrent of water. Hiding them was quite unnecessary. Shoulder remaining cold, the hyena resumed his walk forward.

Such walk was halted within seconds. Hearing the sound of odd hooved footsteps, the fawn and his back had met once again. Weight on his back for the second time, moving forward was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Loud sobs and shaking from behind him, the hyena had no choice but to stay put.

As the hooved footsteps got louder with every second, the fawn's cries continued to intensify. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera turned his head to the right. Whoever it was that was behind him, he would not award the stranger any attention. Time was quickly running out.

"I can see you, you failure," a deep voice called out. The words seeped a menacing poison.

Parisa letting go of the soldier, the chimera turned to the owner of the voice. Standing two meters away from the fawn had been a tall man at least thirty centimeters taller than him. Partial person towering over him, the hyena rose to the tip of his toes. The tower of a man had green eyes, like the trees in the rainforest. He had short burgundy hair that went down to his ears. His ears, and hair, they matched the fawn's almost exactly. Had the person been related to Parisa? Seeing the large curved antlers on top of their head, the chimera supposed such could have been the case. Bangs swept to the left just like his possible kin, and black outfit of darkness sticking out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls, the chimera tilted his head downward. The man's legs were thin, tall, furred and brown. Black claws underneath the feet, the hyena ended his examination.

Seeing the uneasy look on Parisa's face, it had come to the chimera in an instant. The tall hooved man, this was the person referred to as he that the fawn had been so afraid of. Hearing the menacing tone in his voice, he knew something was off with the situation at hand. But, whatever were about to go down was no business of his. Family matters should have been left to the people involved. Shoulder freezing over the soldier attempted to resume his walk for the third time of the day.

Hyena trying to leave yet again, Parisa grabbed his wrist with a firm grasp. Of all times for her brother to cross paths with her in the forest, no day was ever the correct for such confrontation. Had their mother told him to haul her back to the Akademiya? Surmising the possibility to be the only one, she would bare her fangs at him. Brother's eyes staring down at her as though she were an insect, a scream instead took shape.

"Riyad, leave!" Parisa cried, her voice was shaking. Brother's eyes staring down at her longer, their body had begun to shake with a relentless fervor. "Get away from me!"

Riyad let out a scoff. How incredibly pathetic his sister had become in the past few years. What an absolute disgrace she was to the Saber family. Their mother chose the right path of turning the other cheek when she had run away from the Akademiya. What an incredibly laughable excuse of a chimera and Sumeru citizen, she was; a true tragedy.

"Look how pathetic you are!" Riyad shrieked, words seeping with toxic venom. "Hiding out in this rainforest, how much of a failure could you possibly be right now?" His lips had formed into a sinister smirk. "Go back to the Akademiya, and stop disappointing the family!"

Hearing the suggestion of returning to the Akademiya, Parisa clamped down on the hyena's wrist harder. Even if it was unbecoming and tactless of her to keep the Fatui from his work, dealing with her brother was not happening. The nation of Sumeru, and all of its knowledge was a lie, a ruse; manufactured. If he were to have his way, he would force her to return, for sure. Eyes glaring sharper daggers at her, she could feel a scream break loose from her throat.

"I'm not going back!" Parisa screamed at the top of her lungs. "Please leave!"

Bearing witness to the sibling battle forced upon him via the fawn's tight grip, the hyena turned his head to the opposite direction of the noise. Whatever was going on between the two was no business of his. Was turning a blind heterochromatic eye wrong of him? He supposed it was, but involving himself in other's affairs had to have been worse.

Riyad let out a sinister laugh. Parisa had chose disappointment, how typical of a failure, like her. Why the Akademiya had wanted such a pathetic piece of meat that was his estranged blood relation was beyond him. What a tragic creature that stood in front of him. A coward amongst the strong.

"Wow! Not going back, you say? Could you be any more pathetic right now?" Riyad exclaimed, words seething with a high and mighty attitude. "Don't bother coming back until you graduate!" His smirk grew into a toothy grin. "A failure like you has no place in our home." He rubbed his human hands together like a villain in a play.

Letting go of the hyena's wrist, Parisa's entire body shook like an earthquake. The fawn knew by now being welcomed back into the family was no longer within reach. Tension reaching its climax, the Vision on the uniform had begun to glow. Mother sending him to get them back into the academy or not, letting him have his way was an outcome that could not be reached.

"You don't understand!" Parisa shouted, emotions exploding. "All of Sumeru's knowledge is a mirage! A lie!" Tension rising, an indigo polearm had appeared in her hand. "I'm not going back!" Legs spread far apart, her battle stance had been ready. "Now, leave!"

Torrent of water surrounding her, the fawn lunged forward. Riyad soaked to the bone, she struck her polearm as if it were a sword. Arm and spear shaking hands, blood had stained the tip. Removing her polearm from his person, the weapon had disappeared into thin air. No matter how much she wanted to continue pressing her spear into his skin, she knew she would regret it if her brother were to die here. His soul would haunt her for all of eternity, for certain.

Weak attack blown to him, a sinister cackle echoed throughout the rainforest. So, this was the pathetic piece of meat's answer? What a tragically horrendous path she had chosen. Running away was becoming of a loser, like her. Barely any blood tricking from her attack, the cackle erupted into a sinister bellow. Had so much time in the forest weakened the disappointment's battle prowess? What an incredible failure she had become. If he had thought to bring a weapon with him, her little water attacks would have been frozen by his ice in retaliation, in an instant.

"Look how low you've fallen," Riyad said, arms spread out in a cocky pose. "Pathetic!"

Estranged brother showing no signs of strain from the attack, defeat tied a rope around her neck. Shaking off her emotionally driven attack off like it was nothing, the fawn knew the odds were not in their favor. Defeat making its rounds, Parisa's legs broke out into an astronomically speedy sprint.

Spotting the fawn speed off in the blink of an eye, Siorc stared off into space. The graceful Parisa, the violent Parisa, or the panicking Parisa, which one was the real one? Some people were polarizing, indeed. Obstacle out of the way, the hyena had begun walking again. But, luck and the Archons were not on his side as the cocky voice of Riyad poked daggers in his eardrums.

"Pathetic, isn't she?" Riyad said, words seeping with poison. "Good call not putting up with that failure, little Fatui." His tone was demeaning, and uppity.

Not wishing to dignify the tall fawn man with a response, the chimera kept walking. By now, it had to have almost been evening. He was going to be whistle blown on for sure, if he gave in to the distractions behind him. But, as the chimera kept heading towards the exit, the hooved footsteps continued.

"Wow, cold! Ignoring me, huh?" Riyad cried out in a sarcastic tone. "But don't you fret, little Fatui." The sarcasm would not leave his voice, even for a moment. "I'll tell your subordinate that pathetic girl held you up." He folded his human hands together, plottingly. "But, I'll get her to come back, just you watch me." Exit of the rainforest nearing, the tall fawn man turned his hooved feet in the opposite direction. "My, look at the time, the exit is right there!" Unfolding his hands, he waved to the Fatui. "Bye, bye, little Fatui."

Hooved footsteps soon vanishing, the hyena exited the rainforest. Sea of green soon behind him, a sandstorm of thoughts rushed through his partially human brain as the desert inched closer with every step. The tall gazelle man, had the Agent and he been working together? His deliveries in Sumeru, as of late, were they a way of distraction towards Her Majesty's true objective? Even if such were the case, he knew he couldn't ask any questions. Questions were not allowed to him as a Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.

World of sand engulfing him, the soldier opened his teleport waypoint proxy map. Agent recently taking his proxy map to Her Majesty for some upgrades, pins had been littered throughout the area. Fatui insignia labeled on the map clear as day, the early adult dissipated the map into orb form. Leaving the orb in his hand, the orb of Snezhnaya creation lead the way.

Forlorn Fatui eventually upon him, the chimera handed the soldier the supplies. Tall masked woman with a green hoodie and lantern in hand accepting the supplies as if desperate, the delivery had been completed. Supplies not being ripped off his back as they usually had been, the hyena gazed down at the sand below him. The desert was a harsh terrain of extremes.

Supplies being delivered, the hyena opened the orb back into map form. Not wishing to walk back, he highlighted the waypoint to the unknown city of Sumeru. City of grey engulfing him within an instant, the chimera's legs broke out into a sprint. Nightfall was about to hit. Surely, by now, the Agent had to have been furious with him.

Agent within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision, the soldier accelerated his sprint. Ending his sprint as his subordinate had been adjacent to him, an oddity had made its roar known to the early adult. The Agent had not been irritated with him, in the slightest. His gloved hands were rubbing together in a sinister fashion. The Agent, had all of this been according to Her Majesty's plan? No matter how many questions he had, none would leave his lips.

"Excellent work today, soldier," the Agent said. Hand out in front of him, he squeezed his subordinate's wrist tight. "We're heading back now, let's go."

As the fast travel back to Snezhnaya had begun, the chimera closed his eyes. Military barracks within his field of vision as the teleportation ended, the soldier sauntered through the icy hallway with due diligence. Soundproof room nearing, the hyena entered the steeled walled room within minutes.

Steel walls surrounding him, he removed his glasses, hairpins and earrings. Slumping into the hard rock bed, his heart beat unevenly as a barrage of thoughts wrapped vines around him. The Agent, had he been working with the Academia to lead the fawn back to the institution? War machines not having piled up for awhile, he supposed his subordinate had not pinpointed the gazelle could have been the culprit.

Heart beating harder, the words Parisa had said earlier echoed in the chambers of his partially human brain. All of Sumeru's knowledge was a mirage; a lie. If all the knowledge provided for the citizens of Sumeru was truly a lie, the chimera knew one thing, and one thing only: If Her Majesty knew of such fact, she would take advantage of the nation, for sure.

Feeling a wave of tiredness overtake him, the chimera closed his eyes. Heartbeat not dissipating even for a moment, peaceful sleep would be a battle, for sure. World of sleep eventually taking him, one final thought played on repeat as the world of tormented dreams were about to take him away.

The knowledge given to all the people of Sumeru was a lie, indeed.

***

Upon waking up the next morning, many harsh realities made themselves known to the young soldier. Agent's threats against his life continuing, he knew now more than ever. Even if his previous performance the day before had been decent, at any moment, his life could be over.

Having been taken to the training grounds for the day, Siorc took a long deep breath. Heart beating wildly when he had awoken that morning, the monster had been inching closer. Heartbeat not dissipating within the first try, the chimera took another long deep breath. Any moment now, the Sixth Harbinger would make his presence known. Uneasiness feasting on him, the world around him numbed. Not feeling the tap of his training partner, the feast continued. Tap eventually registering, he turned to his practice partner in silence. He could not falter. Time was not a virtue in the permafrost north.

Not saying a word to one another, the two walked towards the weapons. The practice partner, did he have nothing to say to him today? How incredibly odd. But, he supposed, if he had nothing to say, it did not matter. Silence playing on repeat, the soldier grabbed his beginner claymore in a hurry. The Sixth Harbinger would announce himself any time now. Greatsword in hand, and bow and arrow basket on his partner's back, the two walked back to the training grounds.

As his future combatant in arms walked slightly in front of him, the training partner studied carefully. When he had arrived today, it had come to his attention immediately. His practice partner had needed to take a long pause to breathe. Had his heart been acting up today? He knew he would have to proceed with caution, if such were the case. Any extra stress brought onto him would lead to disastrous consequences. Should he give him light training today? But, as such ideas were brewing, the ever familiar sound of the Sixth Harbinger's maliciousness sounded. What incredibly poor timing, on his part.

"Shouldn't all you weak ignoramuses be getting to work already? Get to training already!" the Sixth Harbinger said with a malicious tone of voice. He then turned to Siorc. "Well, well, well, looks like the blind one is back again. Egor, come here!" Command making itself known, the practice partner walked over to the Harbinger. "Have him dodge these again. It'll make him less slow and stupid." Sinister light blue orb returned to him, he placed the delusion in Egor's gloves with a hard slam.

Cryo delusion regifted to him, the practice partner clipped the sinister orb into place. Black aura seeping through, the training partner sighed under his mask. Did he really have to fire Cryo arrows at his future combatant in arms again? But, orders were orders. Disobeying those above him was not an option.

Seeing his practice partner clip a delusion onto his uniform, the chimera jumped five steps back. He could feel his heart beat unevenly in his chest at a rapider pace than before. The Balladeer, was he asking his practice partner to hurl elemental arrows at him again today? If such were the case, he knew he had no choice in the matter. His orders were absolute.

The practice partner noticing the hyena jump back, he knew he had to say something to his combatant in arms. If too much stress were to build up inside him, it would not be a good thing for the young soldier before him. Perhaps, telling him he would go easy on his training today would bring him to an ease. Coming to such conclusion, the practice partner was resolute.

"It's going to be alright, Ingne," the training partner said gently. "If you're nervous, I'll lessen the Cryo infusion on my arrows. It's okay."

Taking a deep breath, the chimera readied himself. Perhaps, just maybe, if the sinister elements were subdued, dodging would come to him easily. Claymore in hand, the hyena knew he had to deflect any arrows that were coming his way, delusion or not. Nodding to his practice partner, he steeled himself for the icy arrows of sinister aura to be hurled towards him.

The practice partner fastened his bow with zeal. Holding the shot for a moment, the arrow glowed with an icy aura. Fastening another two as quick as the first one, multiple arrows had been fired. Three arrows travelling within close proximity of the chimera target, the training partner blinked. Hadn't he just told his practice partner he would lessen the Cryo infusion on his bow? The Delusion must have overwritten his thoughts like a set of ones and zeroes.

As three icy arrows had soared towards him at lightning speed, immediate panic had devoured him further. Not expecting a multitude of arrows to be fired at him at once, the chimera's mind blanked in seconds. Arrows inching closer, the hyena jumped a mere two steps back. But such jump back had not been enough. As the travelling of the arrows ended, he could feel the arrows of ice collide with his rubber shoes. Rubber acting as a shield, however, no scream broke loose from his partially human throat.

Crouching down to remove the arrows, the familiar sound of the Harbinger in charge blasted in his eardrums with a relentless roar. His sinister laugh had been malicious as it had always been. Berating those under him had to have been his ultimate favorite pastime.

"Wow, still slow and blind!" the Sixth Harbinger shouted in a demeaning tone. "Just like I thought!" He waved his hands about in a sassy manner as he laughed ferociously.

Harbinger's words crawling around his skin like a firefly in the open wilderness, Siorc gripped his claymore tighter. If Her Majesty had seen his performance just now, she would certainly be disappointed in him. Focus; he had to regain his focus. Practice partner fastening his bow again, the hyena was ready.

Second set of arrows of icy activity bolting forward, the chimera swung his greatsword about. Weapons coming his way, he jumped five steps back with weapon in hand. Swings continuing from moments before, the arrows of ice and the claymore had met graciously. Arrow speeding into the opposite direction, they dragged onto the cold ground with fury.

Heart beating wildly again in between blows, the soldier took another long deep breath. Was the delusion making him tired as well? Whether or not such had been the case, there was no time to think about such matters. Uneven heartbeat dissipating, he returned his attention to his training partner. Seeing only three arrows left within the basket, he took one final deep breath.

Three arrows left, only a single handful remained.

Final set of arrows inching forward with an icy vengeance, the hyena lifted his claymore beside him. Arrows inching closer, the chimera jumped another five steps back. Swinging the beginner's weapon in front of him, the arrows of ice and the greatsword had met with a passion. Arrows speeding off in the air, they darted towards a practice dummy with beauty.

Six arrows being deflected, and multiple dodges registering, the soldier sheathed his claymore. Energy draining as the seconds marched on inexorably, he sunk down to his currently human knees. Feeling his energy levels drop faster with every minute passing, the soldier fought back the urge to close his eyes. Overstimulation was a beast of burden.

Noticing how tired his practice partner had become, he knew it was time to end training for today. If he were to press onward with training today, stress would build up quicker inside his future combatant in arm's body, for sure. Such outcome could not happen, for any reason. Feeling his energy drain as well from the use of the Delusion, ending practice for the day was for the best. Raising his training partner to his feet, the time had come for his dismissal to begin.

"You did great today, Ingne," the training partner said, voice tired. "We're ending here, for today." Removing the claymore from his partner's hands, he placed it in the bow and arrow basket. "I'm going to go return the weapons now. I'll see you next time." Weapons removed, the generic soldier exited the area.

Dismissal being granted, the chimera headed towards the military barracks. As his walk towards the soundproof room marched onward, multiple thoughts wrapped vines around him. The Sixth Harbinger's orders were intensifying at a swift rate. Her Majesty's delusions, would he be seeing more of them? If such were the case, he knew he was not ready for it.

Steel walled room nearing, the Sixth Harbinger's words echoed in his mind. He was still slow and blind. The Balladeer's words, they cut like a Ferrous Shadow. He was the blind one; slow, stupid and blind, just like the Sixth Harbinger had said.

Soundproof room upon him, he could feel his heart beating at a painful rate yet again. His training for the day had probed the monster inside him further. Feeling a wave of dizziness soon kick in, the monster would soon be right behind him.

Hairpins, earrings and glasses removed, the chimera weakly slumped into the bed. Dizziness and rapid heartbeat increasing as he laid in the uncomfortable bed, the soldier closed his eyes. The information from yesterday, about Sumeru, the Cryo arrows hurled at him; the Sixth Harbinger's relentless words. Stress was beginning to hold him tighter with every second passing. Uneven painful heartbeat not ceasing, one thought played on repeat as the world of pained sleep was about to invite him back in.

The monster will soon awaken.

This chapter is going to be painful to read through, proceed with caution.

Also Egor lore? Egor lore.

6. Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 4: Arrhythmia Edition

"The Agent, he's been threatening my life more lately,
He's doing this on purpose, surely.
I'm doing what he asks me, I'm doing it
Silently. As he commands of me from Her Majesty.

I'm unsure why he's doing this to me,
Shirking work is no longer a thought that lives inside me.

Please, stop doing this, stop these threats.
After all I know by now, shirking work one more time will lead to my death.
I know, however, I cannot complain
No such act is allowed for me as a
Fatui. So, I have to stay silent. Silence is key.
Ultimately, I know, he'll tell me to 'stop messing around', really, it's is truly better if I say nothing
Like always. Silence is my reckoning."

Two months had passed since the return of purchasing wine in Mondstadt had occurred. Nothing of especial happenstance transpired within the adult chimera's life. Thirty days of deliveries in Sumeru making their roar known to the hyena, the young soldier remained diligent. Although, such deliveries in the Dendro Nation were not as they seemed.

During the hyena's various deliveries, it had come to the young soldier's attention immediately. All of his deliveries took him through the rainforest. Running into the fawn chimera on various occasions with a heated brother confrontation on private display during one delivery, a realization had rooted itself within the early adult's partially human brain.

The knowledge given to the citizens of Sumeru, all of it was a lie; a mirage. If Her Majesty knew of such fact, she would take advantage of the nation for sure. Deliveries coming to an end after thirty days, diplomacy of nothing and training had returned with a vengeance within the soldier's Diplomatic Fatui life. Nothing was out of the ordinary for the hyena.

However, a certain monster had appeared within the chimera's body.

Agent's threats on his life increasing since the debt collecting ordeal, stress had constantly hugged the chimera from behind. He knew he had to keep on working, or the Agent would blow a whistle upon him. His life would be over for sure, if such threats of violence would come into fruition. As the threats kept making their rounds through his shark eardrums, the monster would squeeze him tighter. As the days marched onward, undeniable bouts of wooziness and lethargy reigned supreme inside him. Despite such disturbance, the hyena would not falter.

Today, the monster would consume him.

Upon awakening that morning, immediate tiredness had overtaken the hyena. As the young soldier's eyes opened, a rapid, uneven heartbeat greeted him like an old friend reuniting with him after a long absence. Fatigue holding a sword to his neck, the chimera weakly rose from the bed. He had to get ready for the workday at hand, the choice was not his. Glasses being on, the hyena readied himself for the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he rose to his feet, all sound around him had begun to buzz. If the morning alarm bells had rung already, hearing them at a normal level would be an impossibility to be had, for sure. Dizziness pressing the sword to his neck further, the man staggered forward. Falling to his currently human knees as his walk to his uniform drawers continued, the hyena let out a labored grunt. Why was his body fighting him like this? There was no time; the Agent could arrive at any moment to relay his orders to him. Placing his hand upon the icy floor, the young soldier returned to his feet.

Efficiency was dead upon arrival. As he walked over to his uniform drawers, fuzziness clouded his vision through the lens of the early adult's glasses. Why was everything trying to fight against him today? He had no time for such weakness raging inside his partially human body. The hourglasses' sand was about to reach the bottom. Getting his uniform on had to become of him now.

Removing a clean uniform from the drawer, the chimera had come to a haphazard conclusion: sitting on the icy floor to get dressed for the day would make everything easier. Uniform pants on, the soldier placed his possibly human rear onto the cold ground. First layer in hand, the man's chest scar was no longer on private display. Second layer of shirted clothing on, he readied himself for the final layer to melt onto him.

Uniform finally on, a meek thought pushed through the fuzziness overpowering him. He had not heard the groans in an echo today. Was the loud buzzing in his ears affecting his hearing? The chimera did not know, but time was ticking. He had to shake it off. Final button snapped into place, Siorc returned to his currently human feet. The Agent could arrive at any moment now.

Other drawer within his reach, the young soldier grabbed his second favorite hairpins and earrings. Perhaps, just maybe, they would give him the energy he needed for the day at hand. Jewelry and accessories in hand, the hyena clicked the rabbit hairpins and earrings into place. Surely, wearing them would give him the first wind he needed.

The first wind was a dead soldier on the battlefield. Still hearing no footsteps ever approaching, the man blinked his mismatched eyes. Was the Agent not coming today? Muffled silence playing on repeat, the hyena put on his heelless shoes with a lethargic whimper. Surely, if he looked outside the door, a soldier within his jurisdiction could still be around.

As he stumbled outside, a fuzzy sight greeted the early adult. On his door had been a note. Not wishing for his current weakness to be known, the soldier did not peer at the other doors nearby. Note being written in Snezhnayan writing, the chimera stared in silence at the barely visible words in front of him.

"You have the day off, the note in clear Snezhnayan writing said. Or so the man assumed. The words on the page were visible, but only to a slight degree. But, if the words on the page were really the case, an idea had made rounds in his spinning head.

Perhaps, just maybe, if he looked for Hase in the areas of Mondstadt he avoided last time, his fatigue would disappear within an uneven heartbeat. Resolute on his decision, the chimera readied himself to exit the military barracks. Teleporting in the world of the snow outside would snap his body out of its lethargy, for sure.

Walking for even twenty steps was a failure. World spinning around him, the ice cold floor and the soldier off duty met for the second time of the day. Closing his eyes for a moment, the early adult heaved a labored sigh. His body insisted on fighting him every step of the way.

Muffled footsteps soon approaching him, a second labored sigh exited the hyena's partially human throat. If someone were to see him in such a state, a whistle would be blown upon him when Her Majesty were to return. He had to stand right this instant. The choice was not his if he wished for the incident to not reach the Cryo Archon's ears.

Standing up on his own was failure. Gloved hand on his wrist, his body was pushed upward by an outside force. The chimera swore, however, that the gloved hand on his wrist had been glued to him for far longer than a minute. Turning his head a smidgeon, bewilderment ate the early adult up like Tea Break Pancakes. The gloves on his wrist, they were Mondstadt style gloves. The gloves, they could only belong to one person, and one person alone.

His practice partner, just what was he doing here? Didn't he have work on the practice grounds to get done? He supposed it was possible for the other jurisdictions within Snezhnaya also had a holiday today. Regardless, he knew, he had to leave now. Time was running out for his one member search party.

Seeing his combatant in arms fallen on the ground moments before, the practice partner's suspicions had been correct. Recalling how exhausted he had been the other day during a training session, worry had painted his mask a shade of grey. Pulse beneath his gloves abnormally fast for a resting rate, an emergency was at hand. Recalling what the medical Fatui from Natlan had told him if severe arrhythmia symptoms were to ever arise, the practice partner was ready to take action.

"Ingne, I'm taking you to Kawu," the practice partner said firmly. "Come on." His words were decorated with a tone of worry.

Removing his gloved hand upon his wrist, the hyena lowered his tired eyes into a glare. Just who was this Kawu person he had never met before? He had no time for this. The hourglasses sand could reach the bottom at any moment. Whatever the practice partner was worried about was unnecessary. The soldier off duty knew he had to tell him that.

"I am fine, sir," Siorc lied, words slurring with every syllable. "I need to go." Even his voice showed signs of lethargy, but the chimera cared not, at the moment in time.

The practice partner sighed at such obvious lie. Perhaps telling him how it was would convince him to listen. He knew at this point how stubborn of a person his combatant in arms could be. Resolute on his decision, he readied his next words in a careful manner.

"You're not well, Ingne," the practice partner said in a stern tone. "I need to take you to Kawu so she can examine you." If he were not wearing a mask on his face, there would be a serious look on it.

Hearing the name Kawu again, the chimera trudged five steps forward. Whoever this Kawu person was, he would not be meeting them. He had to search for Hase. He knew if he did not do so today, he would not be able to again for months to come. Days off were in limited supply.

"Please, sir," the chimera pleaded, words still slurring with every syllable. "I have to go." Hand in his uniform pocket, he was ready to stage his exit.

Taking note of the desperation in his combatant in arms' voice, a sigh escaped his throat. Just as he suspected, he was going to continue to be stubborn. He supposed asking him where he intended to go wouldn't hurt. If the area he planned to go were a dangerous one in his current state, he would put a stop to it in an instant.

"Where is it that you need to go, Ingne?" the practice partner asked. "Please open up your map for me."

Removing the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket, the man opened the orb into map form. Highlighting the fuzzy Mondstadt section with his fingertip, he placed his shaking finger on the Waypoint within the capital city of Mondstadt. Would this work? If his practice partner knew he was headed to Mondstadt, would he let him go? He had hoped for such to be the case.

Studying the waypoint his combatant in arms highlighted, a small epiphany shot through him. The area in Mondstadt he had highlighted was within the vicinity of the church and a hotel. If anything were to happen to him, he would be able to take him there to rest. Having recently been given a Teleport Waypoint Proxy map with only Mondstadt highlighted on it, keeping an eye on his training partner from afar could certainly come into fruition. It was almost as if, such convenience were created to push a story along.

"Alright, Ingne," the practice partner said. "But I'm going to keep an eye on you."

Knowing he would lose an argument if he started one, the hyena simply nodded. Waypoint to the capital city already highlighted, the chimera confirmed the action. Teleport button pressed, he dissipated the map back into orb form. Fast travel about to begin, the chimera closed his eyes.

Maybe the Mondstadt air will calm down his heartbeat raging within.

***

"Even if Hase is no longer in Mondstadt,
Going to the places I have not checked yet will lead to clues, surely,
Over at the church, Springvale; someone had to have seen her even if it wasn't recently.
Really, even if the other Fatui see me. I need to keep looking."

Teleport Waypoint placing him on the top of the tower, a pulse shot through the chimera's head. The high altitude in his body's current state was not a good thing. Wind glider deployed, the early adult stumbled down to the ground below. Practice partner not being anywhere behind him, the soldier off duty trudged onward. Fuzzy staircase below his currently human feet, the hyena headed towards the left like last time.

Dragging his feet, the Barbatos statue was slowly behind him. Church within his fuzzy field of vision, the soldier off duty kept drudging along. Church staircase adjacent to him after some time, the hyena ascended the stairs. Wall beside him, he placed his hand to the wall beside him. Wall acting as a crutch, the climb upward was no problem.

Benches off to the side, Siorc placed himself on the three legged seat. Needing a moment's break as soon as he arrived had to have been a pathetic sight to behold for the Knights in the area. Knowing if anyone near the church had spotted him, they would kick him off the premises, the chimera readied to leave the area. Although, such exit was halted by the muffled sound of someone sitting near him.

Turning his head was a sight to behold, for certain. To the left of him had been oddly unholy looking Sister of the Church of Favonius. The young woman had short red hair covered by a long red veil. But the details were fuzzy. He swore if he squinted, the veil around her would look like long hair. On top of the Sister's head had been a white crown, or so the chimera thought. He knew there was a possibility it could have been something else entirely. Her eyes were lavender with bags underneath them, and her skin was pale as if anemia coursed through her veins. Could it have been his imagination? Perhaps, that could have been the case. Lowering his head, he stared at the Sister's outfit. The sister's white and brown outfit was nothing like the other sisters at the church. Was she a rebellious Sister doing everything her own way? He always thought Sisters had to obey the will of the Anemo Archon, was this woman the exception? He supposed it wasn't his business. Fishnet stockings covering her legs, and strange metallic nails on the fingers of her gloves, the hyena ended his examination. Sister or not, he knew he had to proceed with utmost caution. Unholy sister turning his way, the soldier off duty took a labored deep breath.

"You look similar to a young woman I did some dirty work with," the Unholy Sister of the Church said. "You have a job for me as well? I've got time."

Siorc's heart skipped more than seven beats upon hearing the Sister's words. Were his inhuman eardrums bouncing the incorrect words his way? Why would Hase be going around Teyvat getting her hands dirty? There was no way the words he had just heard were right. His fatigue, surely, it had to be have been playing tricks on him. Shaking his head, he readied his usual forbidden question on autopilot.

"You've seen Hase, Ms.?" the chimera asked forbiddingly. Would Ms. be the proper form of address? The Unholy sister did not seem loyal to the Anemo Archon. "Did she tell you where she was going?" Despite the tone of desperation in his voice, his words remained slurred with every sentence.

Seeing the Unholy Sister twirl around a dagger in her left hand, the hyena's heart skipped even more beats. Was the sister ready to dispose of him? Deep breath not dissipating the painful uneven heartbeat within, he turned his head to the opposite direction. Turning around after a few minutes, the weapon had been away as if it was never there. It was almost as if, certain movements in Teyvat only happened when a person remained still and motionless for a long period of time.

"Beats me," the Unholy Sister eventually said. "She didn't tell me anything." She sounded irritated, for some particular reason.

Yet another predictable rejection hitting his ears, the chimera rose from the bench. Bowing a low energy apology to the Sister as he readied to leave, the hyena trudged to the city's exit. The Unholy Sister of the Church, she certainly thought of him as wasting her time. City exit upon him after fifteen minutes, the hyena dragged his feet forward. Bridge within ten meters him, a thought had echoed in his mind with a dull clamor.

The village of Springvale near his former house. Perhaps, just maybe, the locals around the village could have seen Hase in the past. Having been to the village of Springvale in the past in his stolen childhood a few times to buy ingredients for dinner, the decision had been made.

Bridge walls beside him, the chimera placed his human left arm at present on the stone nearby. Wall acting as a crutch, his walking speed sped up a smidgeon. Reaching the bridge's end, the hyena trudged towards the south. Rocks to the side of him, the natural crutch kept providing support. Familiar sign within his fuzzy field of heterochromatic vision, the hyena walked forward. Stone stairs in front of him, the rock wall and his left hand made their acquaintance for the third time. Village nearing, the hyena was ready. Towered windmill in the distance, the chimera trudged towards a small fence.

Elderly man muttering about a spring fairy by a river, the question of his sister's whereabouts had been fired. Elderly man claiming he had not seen Hase in a long time, the hyena's weak trudge continued. Another set of stone stairs to the northwest, the chimera ascended.

Hunter sitting in the grass by the windmill, the repeat question had been fired. Hunter not knowing who he had been talking about, the hyena ascended another stone staircase. Middle aged man with cat ears standing in front of a house not recognizing him, the chimera moved towards the next house nearby.

Familiar chef from his stolen childhood diagonal to him, the hyena made unfocused eye contact. Chef recognizing him, the chimera placed his hands in front of him with a lethargic fervor. Signing the word sister, he continued making eye contact.

Chef shaking her head, the soldier off duty closed his eyes. He supposed he expected no one to have seen her in Springvale in recent times. Tilting his head towards the sky, the afternoon sun had blared in his damaged eyes. Wooziness roaring about as he tilted his head downward, the hyena stumbled to the left. At any moment, he knew he could fall over, but he cared not. The search party had to continue, but as his staggering about persisted, a muffled voice resounded across the air of freedom.

"Rejoice!" the voice exclaimed royally. "For I, the Prinzessin have come to solve your vermin problem!" The Prinzessin let out a haughty laugh as her exaggerated speech had ended.

Hearing the strange words a little, Siorc stopped moving. Did the young woman just mention a vermin problem? Did Springvale have a large influx of incoming monsters? The village being quite close to his former home, he could feel his pained heart sink like a stone in the water. Had he interrupted the chef during a commission? How incredibly rude of him. Drudging his feet back towards the chef, he bowed an apology to her.

Young carnivorous chef waving her hands about, the soldier off duty dragged his feet back towards the buzzing voice. Standing about in a haughty manner had been a young teenage girl slightly shorter than him. Most of the world being taller than him, the hyena rubbed his eyes. The young girl's hair had been blonde going down to her backside, tied up into two pigtails. Left eye being covered by an eyepatch, bewilderment tapped the chimera on the shoulder. This girl, had he seen her before during diplomatic affairs in Mondstadt? His memory was fogged beyond belief, at the moment in time. Her strange black outfit with purple coattails, green eyes, and uneven black stockings; everything about the young lady seemed familiar. But, an oddity had presented itself beside her.

Next to the young eyepatched girl had been an odd purple bird. Was he seeing things? A bird and a human would never be so close with one another. Figuring the bird was just his lethargy playing tricks on him, the hyena diverted attention away. Whatever business the young lady and the possibly not there bird had was not any business of his. Girl looking his way for a moment, sweat formed at his brow. Did she have something to say to him? Whatever it was, her demeanor was overpowering.

"Ah," the self proclaimed Prinzessin said haughtily. "Thy looks like but a mere mortal kin who asked for my worldly assistance!"

Siorc dragged his currently human feet five steps back. What had the young lady been saying? He was far too lethargic at the moment to make any sense of such words. Was the girl role playing? The chimera did not know, but his heart beat wildly as the less audible words swam in his dizzying head. Any more fancy speech, and the fuzziness inside him would overpower him within seconds.

"She means you look like someone that commissioned her recently," the possibly not there bird corrected.

Sound of the bird reaching his shark eardrums, the hyena blinked in rapid succession. Did the bird just speak to him? His lethargy was playing extreme tricks on him today, for sure. Hallucination or not, he would not yield. The strange girl and her bird, could they have meant Hase? He knew he had to ask if the pair meant his sister.

"You've seen Hase?" he asked, words even more slurred than before. "Did she tell you where she was going next?" Every word felt like it was an effort to release.

"Thy did not mention her whereabouts to me," the self proclaimed Prinzessin responded. More words had been said, but they did not reach the hyena.

Only hearing the first sentence, a dejected look graced the man's face. Why had Hase never told anyone her whereabouts? Not wishing to ask anymore questions, the hyena stumbled forward. Colorful dots beginning to form in his vision, and wooziness intensifying, he knew at any moment, he would lose consciousness. Practice partner nowhere within his field of fuzzy vision, the hyena staggered towards the village's exit. His training partner, he supposed he had business to attend to elsewhere. Her Majesty's Fatui, surely, not all of them had a vacation day today.

Feeling himself about to fall over, the hyena removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket. Walking anywhere far was swiftly becoming an impossibility. Opening the orb into map form, the chimera placed his left arm around his wrist. Heart beating even harder than before, everything had begun to hurt unceremoniously. Despite such pain, he would not falter.

Colorful dots decorating the map, the pulse in his head only got stronger. He was running out of time; the world of unconsciousness was about to invite him in at any moment. Rational brain beginning to fade, the soldier off duty highlighted the waypoint near the Dawn Winery. Fast travel to the area beginning, the hyena shut his eyes.

Teleport Waypoint placing him in another field of grass, the soldier dragged his feet to the cliffside bottom nearby. Left hand on the rocks for the fourth time of the day, the crutch assisted him. Walking normally, even for a moment was no longer possible. He could feel everything scream within him all at once as the rock wall leaned stroll persisted. The pulse in his head, the dizziness, the fuzzy feeling; the painful uneven heartbeat, they were increasing. But, he had to keep going. The one member search party could not end just yet.

Large mansion with red triangular rooves soon upon him, the chimera staggered forward. Would traversing through the mansion grounds count as trespassing? He knew he had to make his search party around the area quick. Wine barrels littered throughout the grounds, the hyena leaned against the wooden crate for a moment.

Generic nobodies giving him side glances, the hyena's rapid heartbeat increased. Every single generic person glaring at his uniform, the chimera knew violent retribution was about to await him on a weapon platter. Regardless of if violence were about to befall him, the soldier off duty remained vigilant.

Wordlessly communicating the word sister to the people within the Winery was a complete and utter failure. One of the men saying he would report him to the Winery owner, the chimera staggered down the stairs. He had to get out of here, before the owner gave him retribution. Grape vineyards adjacent to him, he knew he had to leave; return to Snezhnaya before Her Majesty found out he was discovered.

The Luck, and the Archons were not on his side.

"Leave the premises at once, Fatui!" a deep voice shouted.

But, the words did not reach the chimera. Dizziness reaching its maximum level, his body swayed downward. Body meeting the grass below him, blackness overtook the hyena. As the world of unconsciousness took him away, one final thought pierced through his fading mind.

If owner of the Winery were to give him retribution, at least it was in Mondstadt.

***

Fortunately, outside forces would soon come to find the unconscious body of the pained hyena near the grape vineyards of the Dawn Winery. Observing his combatant in arms from afar, he knew such outcome was about to arise. But, he knew it would have been rude to intervene in his conversations. Regardless of the outcome, he knew he had to take action.

Knowing it had already been too late to take his training partner to Natlan for the day, an alternative solution had to come to him. The Goth Grand Hotel, perhaps he could take him there, for the moment. Resolute as he was, however, he had business he had to take care of. Familiar voice echoing from behind him, the absent sun in the sky listened with due diligence.

"I see you turned out to become a Fatui, Sonne," the voice said, disgusted. "Pathetic." The figure crossed his arms. Fatui were vile.

Hearing his discarded name called out to him, the man foolishly removed his mask. A familiar face had greeted his unobscured vision. The red haired scion, his former boss. It had been years since he had seen him in person. But, his days counting the inventory inside the warehouse were long over. Time could not reverse backwards. His life decisions did not matter, at the moment. His practice partner had to be attended to now.

"That is absolutely none of your concern right now, Ragnvindr," the man formerly known as Sonne exclaimed. His words were firm, and absolute. "Could you take my subordinate to Goth Grand Hotel to rest? I have something I have to take care of." His tone was serious. Reaching for his pocket, he placed a small bag of Mora in the scion's hands. "I'll pay for the room, and for the Deaconess at the church to take a look at him." He then turned to the unconscious chimera, readying to pick him up. "Say the reservation is under Egor. Make sure he doesn't try to leave. My subordinate is a stubborn one."

Vegetable chimera placed on the scion's back, the man of many riches sighed. He supposed he still owed Sonne a favor from long ago when he helped escort trespassers off the property a few times when he had responsibilities with the incompetent Knights of Favonius.

"I still don't approve of you becoming a Fatui," the scion said. "But consider it done."

Scion exiting the Winery with his training partner in tow, the practice partner placed his mask back on his face. Leaving the mansion, the Fatui balled his gloved hand into a fist. That actual subordinate of his, He was in for a world of choice words.

He would have a nice long talk with the Fatui Agent tonight.

A nice long talk, indeed.

***

"Please, take all this pain away from me,
Unceremoniously, everything is hurting.
Looks like my search party is over for now, temporarily. Hase,
She wouldn't want to see me like this,
Even if we were to reunite, I don't want her to see me in this state.

In this weak state,
She wouldn't want to see me like this.

Really, I know that,
All and all I know that's true.
Please, someone, help me. This pain
It is incredibly suffocating. Even if I don't deserve it.
Don't deserve help, please, I am begging. Silently."

When he had come to, the chimera had found himself in an area completely unknown to him. Glasses to the side, he weakly placed them on his face. Some vision returned to him despite the fuzziness raging about, the hyena checked his surroundings. In front of him had been a bed far more comfortable than his own in the military barracks. Seeing a bedside table and window to the side of him, a labored gulp released itself from the esophagus.

Turning his head to the left, an unusual figure graced his fuzzy field of vision. He knew he recognized the person sitting in the chair beside him. The long red hair in a ponytail, black suit and angry disposition, it all had come to him within a dazed instant. What was the owner of the Angel's Share doing beside him? Didn't he dislike the Fatui? No matter how many questions swam inside him, he wasn't allowed to ask any.

The Angel Share's owner, surely, he didn't want him anywhere within his presence. He had to get out of here. Wherever he was, he knew he couldn't stay. Her Majesty, if she discovered he wasn't back in Snezhnaya by the morning, his life would be over for sure. He had to return to the permafrost north, the choice was not his. Resolute on his decision, the young man staggered to his feet.

But, such stagger about was halted within a second. His uniform, where was it? Had the Angel Share's owner removed it off his body while he was unconscious? Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map being beyond his reach, the hyena kept staggering forward. Such oddity had not been the only one presented before him. His hairpins and earrings, they had been removed. Someone other than him had touched them. Realizing such fact, a shot of anxiety pulsed through him. Painful unevenness beating in his heart within seconds, the world had begun to collapse upon him.

Feeling a gloved hand grip his wrist tight, the soldier off duty let out a weak whelp. This man, did he intend to keep him in this room? Wasn't touching his prized jewelry and accessories enough? He had to leave, he had no choice in the matter, if he wished to keep on living. He knew he had to tell the red haired man that. Seeing the man readying to say something to him, a defeat horn blurted into the area unknown to him.

"Where do you think you're going?" the redhead asked, bluntly. "You're unwell."

Glove gripping his wrist even tighter, sweat had poured buckets on his back. Unwell or not, he had to leave. Her Majesty, she could already be back in the palace by now. The evening would soon be upon him. He could not stay here, there was no way.

"Sir, please," Siorc pleaded. Words slurring even worse than before. "I have to leave. Her Majesty will kill me." He tacked on such for good measure, but his words were futile.

Placed back in the bed, the Angel Share Owner's answer had been clear to him. Did he intend to keep him here, lying like a vegetable? He had no time for such. The hourglasses' sand would soon reach the bottom. The nighttime hours were nearing.

"The Deaconess said you are in an unstable condition," the redhead retorted bluntly. "You're not going anywhere."

Angel's Share Owner having it his way, the chimera let out a tired sigh. He supposed nothing could be done about other people's convictions. Closing his eyes, he could feel the world of sleep about to take him. Perhaps, when he awoke later, the obstacles would be out of the way.

Waking up hours later, the red haired obstacle had been gone. No one being around to stop him, the soldier off duty staggered to his currently human feet. No matter how much sleep he had gotten in the past few days, the dizziness would not leave him be. Regardless of such, his exit had to come of him now. Uniform within his reach, and hairpins and earrings pocketed, the chimera highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks.

Steel walled room upon him, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Barricaded window reflecting darkness from the outside, he knew he had returned at the correct time. Everything put aside, the chimera closed his eyes again. Dizzy or not, work awaited him tomorrow. World of sleep inviting him back, the thought repeated within his lethargic mind.

No matter what, he had to work tomorrow. The choice was not his.

***

The sound of alarm bells shrieked through the area with a bombastic explosion. As the alarm bells rung for what seemed like all of Inazuma's eternity, the grating sound of hundreds of soldiers roared about in utter cacophony. The alarm bells were right on time, as usual. Despite such protesting about, every soldier within the military barracks remained loyal.

The hundreds of groans, while still muffled, were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his deep slumber. The groans in an echo, another day of work was upon him today. Raising from the uncomfortable bed, the young soldier attempted to get ready.

Dressing in his uniform still presented difficulties for the hyena. Rapid uneven heartbeat still reigning supreme inside him, the sword of lethargy at his neck cut wounds upon the skin. The fuzziness he had been feeling would not cease, even for a moment.

Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, the chimera took a deep breath. Breathing exercises were an utter failure. The painful unevenness of his beating heart would not cease. Had it gotten harder since yesterday? The hyena did not know, he had no time remaining. Uniform eventually on, the early adult was ready.

But the Agent's footsteps had never arrived. Sound of buzzing in his ears drowning out everything around him, the world around him deafened. Slapping his ears, unmuffled sound had returned, for a brief moment. Hearing the sound of softer footsteps, the young soldier blinked in bewilderment. Buzzing soon returning after a few seconds, the volume of the footsteps drowned in the frozen waters.

His practice partner at his door, the soldier staggered seven steps back. Why had his training partner been at the door today? Whatever questions were brewing inside him, he knew he could not ask any. Questions were not allowed to him as a Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.

"I'm taking you to Kawu whether you like it or not, Ingne," the practice partner said in an as of matter-of-fact tone as possible.

The name Kawu echoing in his buzzing eardrums, the chimera firmly shook his head. Whoever this Kawu person was, he was not interested in being taken to them. Staggering five steps backward, he made his stance known. His decision was met with physical criticism, however. Arms around his torso within seconds, his body and his practice partner's back had met. Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map removed from his pocket, defeat sounded its victory horn.

"You don't have a choice," the practice partner scolded in a quieter tone. "This is an emergency, Ingne."

Closing his eyes as the teleportation to wherever the Kawu person could have been began, he could feel his consciousness slip away. The world was spinning, moving, turning. Closing his eyes involuntarily, the world of unconsciousness invited him back.

Feeling his combatant in arm's head slump forward as the fast travel to Natlan had ended, the practice partner would not falter. Medical clinic nearing within seconds, he twisted the knob at a Samachurl's running pace. Door creaking open, the practice partner stepped inward. Closing the door behind him, everything was ready.

Predictable distasteful eyes upon him, the practice partner readied to explain the situation at hand. Disdain for humanity or not, he remembered what the Natlan medic had told him last time he had taken him here: if his practice partner were exhibiting more severe symptoms of his arrhythmia episodes, he was to bring him to her immediately, workday or not.

"Good morning, Kawu," the practice partner greeted. "This is an emergency." His words were firm. "Ingne is experiencing a severe flare up with his arrhythmia, and is refusing to rest." If there was not a mask upon his face, there would be a serious look on it. "Could you bring him to a stable condition?"

Hearing the annoying Fatui human call her by her last name, but mention Siorc's condition to her, Loba softened her glare. This human had remembered what she told him, perhaps he wasn't useless after all. Pointing to the bed, she was ready for the call to action.

"Thank you for bringing him to me," Loba said with due diligence. "Place him in the bed over there."

As the stupid human placed the chimera in the bed, Loba heaved a sigh. Why were Her Majesty's multi-nation Fatui so eager to work, no matter what condition their bodies were in? The phenomenon was still a mystery to her.

Hyena placed in the bed, the practice partner again turned to the medical Fatui. Foolishly taking his mask off, he gave the young woman direct eye contact. Silver eyes glowing like the moon, he would not falter on his next words.

"Could you make sure he stays put, Kawu?" the practice partner asked. "I already dealt with outside matters." Placing the mask back on his face, his eyes were gone. "If he asks about work, tell him I had his days off extended by two days."

Loba by the bedside immediately, placed her index and middle finger on the vegetable chimera's wrist. Counting more than one-hundred-forty beats per minute, the gravity of the situation was heavy. This was an emergency that had to be dealt with immediately.

"I will," she responded coldly. No human would get her soft tone. "Now, leave my sight, and go back to your own work." She pointed to the medical clinic door as her sentence ended. Kind or not, humans were disgusting creatures.

Wretched Fatui human gone, Loba's face darkened. Siorc's resting pulse was abnormally fast to an emergency degree. As soon as he were to come to, she had to take action.

His entire wellbeing was in her hands.

***

Coming to a couple hours later, the chimera had found himself in a familiar white walled room. Realizing where he had been, a seed of fear had planted itself inside the hyena. His practice partner had taken him to the medical ward in Natlan. Raising upward from the bed, he staggered to his feet. Loba being nowhere to be seen, he knew his chance to leave was now. Work was upon him, whatever emergency the practice partner claimed he had could wait.

His stagger about was futile. Feeling the dizziness spin cycles in his head, the chimera's rear and the ground met. Heart beat raging hard from his movement, the hyena sighed in defeat. Loba soon returning, he had been placed back into the soon-to-be bed prison. Covers back over him, he knew what was about to come his way. But, he had to go back to work, the choice was not his. Having no energy to speak, he placed his hands in front of him. Two hands closed into fists, he placed his right handed fist on top of the left one. Work being signed on private display, the young soldier waited for the inevitable rejection.

Witnessing Siorc fall over, it had been clear to her within an instant: his symptoms of arrhythmia was currently affecting his whole body. She needed to discuss with Her Majesty as soon as possible that he needed treatment. But, she knew if she left him alone, he would try to leave. Using her Waypoint Map to teleport to Snezhnaya would have to wait a few hours, at least.

Noticing Siorc had been communicating with her in sign language, Loba dragged out a long sigh. Was he still insisting on going back to work in his condition? Absolutely not. There was no way he was returning to work today. She had to tell the hyena work was not happening.

"I know what you're trying to tell me; the answer is no," Loba said sternly. "You're having a flare up, honey. I'm not letting you go back to work today." She attempted to soften her words as she kept going. "Your practice partner had your days off extended. You have nothing to worry about." Placing his hand in her own, she held it tight. "You're staying right here until you're in a stable condition."

Hearing Loba's words, a defeat horn sounded in the area. He supposed there was no winning this one. But, he knew, if were kept here for too long, Her Majesty would end his life for sure, this time. Fact playing on repeat in his fuzzy brain, a shiver had shot down his spine.

Seeing her patient flinch, Loba placed his other hand in her own. Was he scared of Her Majesty's wrath again? Her Majesty would not extinguish his life, while in the medical ward. She knew she had to tell the hyena chimera such fact.

"It's going to okay, Her Majesty isn't going to punish you while you're in here," she replied softly. "This is an emergency situation."

Realizing that, no matter what, he would be stuck in bed laying like a vegetable, Siorc let out a defeated sigh. Not being given any say in the matter, the bed would remain his prison for now. Closing his eyes, the world of sleep grabbed him by the partially human esophagus.

Waking up in the afternoon, the hyena rose from the bed. Hairpins, earrings, and uniform confiscated at some point in his sleep, his hair and ears felt naked. Loba returning to the bedside with multiple medical instruments, the chimera looked downward with a somber beat. The jackal was about to see his hideous scars on private display again. Covers pulled off him a smidgeon, he knew it was coming. Medical instrument around her neck, dread nibbled on the cartilage of his ear.

"Take off your shirt," Loba said, her voice was stern. "I need to examine your heart." Seeing the dread on his face, she knew exactly what he had been thinking. Would reminding him she did not find his chest wretched make him feel at ease? She had hoped such would be the case. "Your chest isn't hideous, honey. I promise you, I would never think it is."

Reassurance being given, the chimera removed his only shirt remaining. Had his other shirt been confiscated, as well? He supposed that did not matter right now. Scar on private display, the hyena closed his eyes in silence. Wave of calmness radiating throughout, the early adult readied himself for the examination.

Shirted clothing removed, and patient looking ready, Loba leaned inward. Metallic circular end in hand, she placed the chest piece on the center of chimera's chest. Metallic object and sternum making their acquaintance, the jackal listened carefully. Abnormally fast heartbeat playing through the earpieces, a frown graced her face. His heart rate was beating at more than one-hundred-forty beats per minute. Would doing a quick breathing exercise help slow the beat down a little? She supposed it was worth a try.

Medical instrument removed, she placed her hand on the patient's chest directly. "Take a deep breath with me," Loba said in a quiet tone. Heart beating rabidly beneath her hand, she took a deep breath. "Keep going. It's going to be okay." Patient following her flow, the breathes continued. But, no matter how many were taken, the rapid beat would not dissipate. If breathing exercises would not help, there was only one option that remained, and an ugly option to be had, for sure. "I will be right back, please wait a moment."

Stepping into the backroom, Loba grabbed multiple herbs. Placing the medicinal herbs in the pot, a meter appeared underneath it. Hitting an orange zone, a ding pinged throughout the room. Medicinal herb soup had come out perfectly. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, cooking was a game. Soup of bitter quality finished, she returned to Siorc's bedside slowly.

Seeing he had put his shirt back on him, a frown had been upon her face. If breathing exercises were not working, in the slightest, she knew she had to use her last resort. Her Majesty's medical technology back in Snezhnaya, she had to borrow it. The medicinal soup in her hands would make the patient drowsy instantly. While she despised using such methods to bring a patient to sleep, anything was better than using a needle of sedation.

"I'm sorry, Siorc," Loba said, somber tone in voice. "You're going to have to eat this." Placing the bowl of bitter soup in front of him, she averted her eyes.

Looking down at the fuzzy bowl of soup in front of him, the chimera's stomach formed into knots. Having no energy within him to eat the soup, he pushed the bowl away. Loba averting her gaze, suspicions bubbled inside him. Was she feeding him some sort of sedative? The medical world was a terrifying place to be.

"No thank you, ma'am," the hyena replied, words weak and labored. "I am not hungry." Pushing the bowl further away from him, he placed himself back down in a laying position.

Suspicions making their rounds in the medical ward, Loba heaved a somber sigh. If she had a choice, she would not feed him such dastardly concoction. But, the choice was not hers. The medical instrument she needed to retrieve was one that could only be used when the patient was asleep. Knowing Her Majesty's tendencies, being back within five minutes for one of her machines would never happen. But, just in case, she had to have the patient ready in advanced.

"Unfortunately, you have to eat this," she replied. "I have to go to Snezhnaya to get the medical equipment necessary to stabilize you." She placed the bowl of bitter herb soup back in front of him. "I need you to be asleep before this procedure."

Not being given a choice, the chimera sipped the medicinal soup in front of him. Wave of tiredness overtaking him within seconds, a drug induced sleep awaited him. Eyes closing as slow as a Slime's hopping pace, everything had been gone within the blink of a mismatched eye.

Patient asleep, Loba stepped out of the medical ward for a moment. Walking to her home, the door had been opened. Twin sister by herself within her former abode, she explained the situation at a breakneck pace. Aega nodding at her instructions, she had exited the house. Sister headed for the medical ward in her stead, she removed her Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from her back uniform pocket.

Only having her medical ward and the palace waypoints available on her hacked map, she highlighted the waypoint to the palace. Fast travel beginning, she closed her eyes. Palace in front of her within a split second, she took a deep breath as she readied herself to enter the palace.

She hoped everything would be over quickly.

***
"Don't know what is going on,
Right now, everything still feels fuzzy, hazy
Obtusely, my ears are buzzing, my head is still spinning,
Will the procedure Loba is planning to administer,
Surely help me?
Yield the pain I'm feeling?"

Waking up three hours later, the mid-afternoon was upon him. An oddity had been quickly roaring about within the Natlan medical ward. Loba's Twin, Aega, had been sitting by his bedside. Seeing a towel removed from his forehead, confusion played on repeat. Feeling a damp towel replace the removed one, the hyena blinked. Was any of this necessary? But no such question would leave his lips. Aega looking at him, he would soon be at her mercy within the bed prison.

"Loba went to go borrow a machine," Aega explained with due diligence. "I'm here to make sure you don't try to run away while she's gone."

Hearing Aega's muffled words, the chimera flinched. Loba was retrieving a machine? Hearing her say medical equipment before she left, the word took on a different meaning within an instant. Snezhnaya technology was a terrifying beast to behold.

Seeing her sister's patient presenting full awareness, she remembered her instructions to the fullest. Loba telling her if he woke up before she returned, checking his vitals was necessary. Placing Siorc into a sitting position, her jackal ears upon her head dropped slightly.

"Since you're awake, I need to check your vitals," Aega said. Her voice was as matter-of-fact as possible. Stepping away for a moment, the familiar heart instrument had been within her hands. "Lift up your shirt. I'll try to be quick."

Shirt lifted up, the twin sister placed the chest piece in the center of the sternum. Heart beating fast and rapidly, she left the instrument there for sixty seconds. She recalled her sister had told her to check her patient's pulse, as well. Flicking her index finger downward, the young man's shirt had been placed down. Wrist in hand, she placed her index and middle finger on one of the chimera's veins. Counting more than one-hundred-forty beats per minute, Aega looked into her sister's patient's eyes.

The look on the Fatui's face, she could sense a large amount of tenseness within his mismatched eyes. His face read like a book. Did he want to go back to work? With his dangerously high pulse and heartrate, that was not happening. Loba would never let her hear the end of it if she gave into one of her patients.

"My sister was right, you really are stubborn," Aega said dryly. "You know, despite your position, there are people that care about you." Placing him back down into a laying position, she looked into her sister's patient's eyes one more time. "So, you need to rest."

Knowing this was a battle he could not win, Siorc allowed defeat hug him from behind. Bitter herb soup brought to him by Aega, the chimera devoured his meal of drugged soup. Drowsiness reigning supreme within seconds, the world of medicated sleep took him away.

Waking up several hours later, slight discomfort graced his body. Seeing a crackle of electricity around Loba's white uniform, he had come to wonder immediately: the machine she had to get, just what did it do? Why was it also affecting Loba? So many questions swam inside him, but none would leave his lips.

As Loba was about to approach him, the hyena sat upward on the bed. The buzzing in his ears, the fuzzy feeling in his head, most of it had been gone. Lethargy had been the only thing that had remained. Static electricity continuing to pulse through the jackal's body, a look of worry graced his face. Was she okay? Not wishing to speak at the moment, he placed his hand in front of him. Placing his right hand into a thumbs up position, he circled it around, for a moment. Would his wordless language get through? He had for such to be the case.

Seeing his wordless question, another pulse of electricity zapped her. Was Siorc asking if she was okay? An odd question to be had from a patient she just had to perform a light procedure on. But, she supposed the electricity was impossible to ignore.

"I'm alright, honey," she replied, voice far more tired than usual. "I was able to stabilize you. This is just a side effect of the Delusion I had to use." Another spark of electricity zapped her. She had to have been a disgrace to womankind, right now. Electricity continuing its zapping reign, she could feel herself creating distraction within her hormonally corrected brain. "I met a pair of interesting chimeras at the factory Her Majesty sent me to." Changing the subject so wildly like that was uncustomary of her, but the Electro Delusion's residue reigned supreme.

Siorc tilted his head at the sudden mention of other chimeras. Was Loba truly okay? Changing the subject like that was quite unlike her. Repeating the same sign from earlier, he made eye contact with the medical ward Fatui. Doctors needed rest just as much as the patients did.

Same sign repeated to her, Loba sat down on the bed next to the patient. Electricity still zapping her, holding his hands could not become of her, for the current moment at time.

"Really, I'm alright, honey," she replied again, voice still tired. "The Electro residue will wear off. I'll be fine." She then prepared her next words carefully. "But, you need to rest until tomorrow. Okay?"

Being told by Loba twice that she was fine, the chimera nodded. Finally being allowed to go back to work in a day or two, a sigh of relief washed over him. Her Majesty, surely, she wouldn't end his life over something like this? Punishment scene flashing through his head every now and again, he knew one more mistake would lead to his last breath.

Meal eventually given to him, and Electro residue dissipated, the hyena closed his eyes. As the world of sleep were about to take him, a small thought of fear planted itself into his brain. Would Her Majesty be disappointed in him? Always being told by every Fatui around him Her Majesty would never kill a soldier stuck in bed, the fear died from the pesticide sprinkling around the edges of his mind.

Health issues brought out the only kindness within Her Majesty's ice cold soul.

***

"Her Majesty, maybe she won't kill me,
Even though I still fear she might,
After being told multiple times,
Life related health problems make her feel some mercy, I suppose I'll have
To work at my best, for awhile. Diligence is key.
Her Majesty, maybe I won't disappoint her, if I return to working at the best of my ability."

Waking up the next morning, lethargy had exited the building in its entirety. Buzzing in his ears and dizziness gone completely, everything within the world of Teyvat had been clear again. Loba checking his vitals one last time, a smile had been on her face as she reported the news to the hyena.

"You're definitely stable now," she replied, her voice was sweet, and soft. "You can go back to work tomorrow." Placing his hand within her own, she held it tight. "I'll let you go back to Snezhnaya in the afternoon."

Afternoon dismissal being granted, the chimera pointed at Loba's drawers. While his energy levels had returned, his speaking energy had remained at zero. Waiting for Loba to look at him again, he motioned his fingers as though he was writing on air. Would this work? He knew writing on air was not a proper sign.

Wordless energy getting through to her, a quilled pen and paper had been placed in front of him. Writing down his desire, he turned the sheet towards Loba's face. Even if desires were not allowed to him, he figured it was worth a shot anyway.

Reading the paper in front of her, Loba placed her hand on her chin. Why did Siorc want to go for a walk on the beaches of Liyue? What an oddly specific area, but, if that was what he wanted, she knew it would be rude to refuse. Returning his confiscated items to him, she made eye contact again.

"Alright, honey," she replied to his writing. "But, I forbid you from running." Her words were stern. "I'm also coming with you. Okay?"

Uniform, accessories and jewelry returned to him, the chimera removed the proxy map from his currently off uniform. Pointing to his Orb, he looked into Loba's eyes. Jackal chimera getting the signal, her proxy map had been on her partially human person. Holding her gloved hand, the orb had turned into map form. Highlighting the waypoint to the shoal, the two chimeras closed their eyes. Beach upon them within seconds, the hyena walked forward.

Yinlong already nearby, he tapped the panda's shoulder lightly. Panda turning around slowly, a slow smile had graced his face. Smile intoxicating him, the hyena returned the gesture in kind.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed, words as slow as ever. "Who's that behind you? You two here to run with me?"

Presence being alerted to, Loba looked at the person speaking of her. For whatever reason, she could feel a chain connecting her soul to the panda chimera. Was this partially human person similar to her? Something about their gender expression in their androgynous clothing screamed kindred to her. While she had felt a similar feeling when meeting Siorc, she knew asking about a person's gender identity when just meeting was rude. Feeling her mind wander, Loba returned to the topic at hand.

"I'm a Fatui medic," Loba replied, words oddly softer than ever before. "And I'm a chimera, just like you. My name is Loba."

Hearing Loba introduce herself as a chimera, a wave of femininity boiled inside her. Being around this chimera, she could feel it deep within the core of her soul. Loba, she wanted to be a girl around her. Perhaps, just maybe, being a girl around her would make her feel even more comfortable around her in the future, if they were to ever re-meet? Yinlong had hoped for such to be the case.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, miss Loba!" Yinlong exclaimed, words speeding up a smidgeon. "My name is Yinlong!" Remembering she had introduced herself as a doctor, the inevitable question had flowed through her lips. "Is Siorc ill?"

Loba's lips formed into a slight smile. What a polite and thoughtful seeming chimera Yinlong was. Is this why Siorc wished to come to this specific beach? Surmising this to be the only conclusion, she focused her attention on the panda chimera's question.

"He's alright now," Loba responded softly. "So, you don't have to worry. I can promise you that I took care of him."

Hearing Loba's response, Yinlong wrapped Siorc up into an unexpected hug. Arms wrapped around his back, their bodies melted into one another for a brief moment in time.

"Siorc, please take care of yourself," Yinlong said, somber tone in voice. Her hug continued. "I know work is important, but don't make yourself ill doing it." Almost slipping the three worded sentence, the panda chimera ended her embrace. Maybe she had gotten carried away.

Hug coming out of nowhere, no words would release from the chimera's throat. Simply nodding, the chimera had begun walking. Yinlong and Loba in tow, the three member beach exercise regimen had begun. Slow walk through the shoal making its rounds, the roar of the waves crashed about.

Slow walk continuing, monsters had eventually blocked the path. Anemo vision glowing, an elemental tornado had blown the seaside monsters away. The panda chimera's bite had a small sharpness to it. Ending of the shoal reached within an hour, the three chimeras turned around.

Returning towards the direction they came, the slow walk back roared on repeat. Sun about to set in the sky, the hyena halted his beachside stroll. He knew now he had to return, back to the permafrost north, back to work tomorrow. Her Majesty would wait no longer for him to return. Time was not a virtue in Snezhnaya. Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map in hand, he turned to Yinlong and Loba. Feeling the slightest bit of talking energy within him, he supposed a goodbye was in order for both of them.

"Thank you for taking caring of me, ma'am," he said to Loba. He then turned to Yinlong. "And, it was nice seeing you again, sir." Sun about to set in the sky, dusk was about to grace him. He knew he had to leave now. The choice was no longer his. Time was running out. "I must take my leave now."

Yinlong's face quickly turned into a somber look. Siorc had to go back to Snezhnaya already? Didn't he just recover from an illness? Such a shame, it was, but they knew Fatui had busy lives ahead of them. Before he were to teleport back home, they figured one last goodbye could be uttered. But, maybe asking about boy time alone and news about their boss's opera troupe could wait until next time.

"It was nice seeing you again, too," they replied, words slowing down. "But, if you're not feeling well, please don't push yourself too hard?" They placed their hand over their heart. "I hope to see you again soon." Would Siorc see their behavior as unlike them? Yinlong had hoped such would not be the case.

Not hearing the usual speech about boy time alone again, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. Maybe Yinlong hadn't identified as male today. He supposed it didn't matter; Yinlong was Yinlong, no matter who they were. Waving to the panda chimera and Loba, he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. Knowing a workday was upon him tomorrow, he walked in the soundproof room.

Steel walls upon him, the chimera sat down on the ice cold floor. Arrhythmia ordeal almost behind him, another thought raced through the chambers of his partially human brain.

Hase, more people around Mondstadt had claimed they seen her, but were not told her whereabouts. Why was she not telling people where she was headed? It was almost as if she didn't want anyone to be able to find out where she was headed next. Still having no leads on her whereabouts, he supposed the one member search party would have to be halted for awhile to come.

Nightfall eventually gracing him, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Thought from earlier returning within the planes of his mind, the thought played on repeat as the world of sleep were about to take him away from the night.

Diplomacy of nothing awaited him tomorrow, surely.

This is actually probably the first of many Siorc goes to collect machine parts with Krysi and Rys who were originally meant to be one time only ocs.

7. Stress Dissipating, Ruin Guards Exploding and Cores Dropping

"Cannot help but feel like
Hours are merely minutes lately
All this mundane monotony
Objectively, time is bleeding together
So many months have passed, but have they really?

Could it really be a mere amount of days?
Or am I just losing?
Really, I do not know,
All that's happening is mundane monotony
Surely, it's only been a momentary amount of days.

Could time be escaping me? But,
Obedience is key. Cannot fall out of
Line, Her Majesty will end me.
Lapsing of time or not,
Every day, I need to keep working
Cannot make any more mistakes
Time may be fleeting, but
It is mandatory,
Obedience is not optional, silence is key.
No matter how slow time feels, I need to keep working if I wish to keep on living."

One month had passed since the second health fiasco had occurred. Nothing of major happenstance transpired within the adult chimera's diplomatic life. Business affairs droning onward within Liyue and an unknown area in Fontaine, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Although, a new development had made its roar known to the hyena.

The Agent's threats had stopped entirely.

Threats dying in the snow outside, stress had been a corpse in the casket. Dead and gone, with no one coming to the funeral. Stress dissipating, the hyena had come to wonder immediately: had someone said something to the Agent? The chimera did not know, but he knew questions were not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier. Life no longer on the line, the early adult remained loyal, and vigilant.

Upon waking up from his especially deep slumber, a wave of subdued confidence leaked through the soldier's pores. Knowing a day of nothing but business affairs awaited him, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Glasses over his heterochromatic eyes, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As his uniform glued onto his partially human person, the hyena pumped his currently human fists together. Hearing the chilling wind outside, the early adult knew another day of business affairs could only be upon him. Snapping the uniform buttons into the correct holes, the hyena sauntered towards the familiar hairpin and earring box. Although, an obstacle had appeared on the battlefield.

In front of where his rations should have been had been a note. Seeing such paper in front of him, the young soldier tilted his head. The Agent, was he not coming today? Subordinate coming or not, his orders were absolute. Placing the sheet of paper in his currently human hands, Siorc read the words on the paper with heeded caution.

"You are to report the Natlan medical ward immediately," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing said. Seeing the words on the paper, a gulp released from the esophagus. The note, it had said immediately. Clipping his hairpins and earrings into place, the hyena ended the morning routine of dressing the body at an accelerated pace. Patience was not a virtue for the Fatui. Teleport Waypoint Proxy map in hand within seconds, the teleportation to the Natlan medical clinic had begun.

Reaching an unknown city in Natlan through the Teleport Waypoint, the chimera broke out into a sweat. The area had been as sweltering as it usually was. The terrifying nation of fire was the same as it always was, it would seem. Wiping the brow, the hyena walked forward towards the medical clinic. Door creaking open, the hyena stepped inward. White walls burning his eyes like the sun outside, the soldier took a quick deep breath.

Closing the door behind him, the sight of Loba had appeared within his damaged field of vision. Having seen her a month prior, the hyena supposed the jackal had discussed a follow up visit to the clinic with Her Majesty. Loba turning around within a few minutes, a peculiarity had presented itself to the young soldier. Her jackal ears had been present upon her head. Had her emotions been running high? But, no such question would leave his lips. The hourglasses' sand was about to reach the bottom.

Hearing the sound of the door open minutes before, Loba had been ready for the call to action. Knowing the machine she had inserted inside his chest a month prior could have caused possible damages, a medical examination was necessary. Fatui as busy as they are, an examination thirty days later was the only window available at any given time.

"There you are, honey," Loba said in a soft voice. "I need to examine you to make sure the machine that helped stabilized you didn't do any internal damages." Walking over to one of the cabinets, a piece of paper and feather quilled pen in hand, she placed the writing instruments on one of the medical beds. "How have you been feeling since the last time we met?" She patted the bed next to her twice. "If you can't tell me with words, write it down for me."

Placing himself on the edge of the medical bed, the chimera placed the quilled pen in his currently human hands. Paper in front of him, the young soldier wrote down the symptoms he had been experiencing since their last encounter. Only writing down his heart had been skipping a few beats every now and again, the early adult turned his attention to the jackal ears again. Loba, had something been bothering her? He recalled many years prior during his first trip to the medical ward, her tail had been sticking out from behind her when she had been nervous. Brown ears glaring at him, the question inside him would not cease existing. Inquiring about her jackal ears on the sheet, the hyena had finished writing. Returning the page to the owner, the note had been placed in Loba's gloved hands. Quill placed back down, he turned his head to the left. Was writing such question down okay? Her Majesty could be watching from anywhere in Teyvat.

Paper in hand, Loba read the words written carefully. An immediate chuckle had almost broke from the chambers of her throat. Had Siorc noticed her jackal ears had been sticking out? Symptoms not being as severe as she thought, she supposed quelling his concern while she examined him could come into fruition.

"I'm alright, honey," she replied, jackal ears moving on top of her head a smidgeon. "There's a heat wave in Natlan right now, so my jackal ears pop out at random. I'm not upset, so you have nothing to fear." Removing the quilled pen from the bed, she readied her next instructions carefully. "Now, please take off your shirt. I need to examine your heart."

Moving towards the front of the uncomfortable bed, the chimera removed his multiple articles of clothing. Chest scar on private display, the hyena closed his eyes. No matter how many years were to pass, the scar on his chest remained a hideous sight to behold.

Medical equipment on, and patient looking ready, Loba leaned inward. Metallic circular end in hand, she placed the chest piece on the center of the chimera's sternum. Metallic object and chest conversing with one another, the jackal listened carefully through her furred ears. Heartbeat sounding normal, a small smile graced her face. Medical instrument removed, she sat on the bed next to the hyena.

"I see no signs of damage within you," Loba said blissfully. "Your heart seems alright at the moment as well. The machine had definitely done its job." Despite such stability, she knew she had to remind Siorc to come see her if his symptoms were to accelerate again in the future. "You seem stable for now, but if you experience severe symptoms again at any point, please see me immediately." Her words were soft, but absolute.

Reminder hitting his inhuman eardrums, the chimera nodded. Figuring the examination was over, the chimera returned to his uniform. Shirts and brown jacket on, he knew that was his cue to return to the military barracks. Teleport Waypoint proxy map in hand, he turned to Loba one final time.

"Thank you, ma'am," Siorc replied voice barely audible. "I will take my leave now."

Seeing the jackal ears still out on Loba's head, the chimera halted his exit. Would telling her to take care be seen as a desire? Placing his hands in front of him, he again turned to Loba. Folding his right three fingers into a semi closed fist, his middle and index finger had been sticking out separated from one another. Left hand mirroring the movement, he banged his left knuckles together for a brief second. Signing take care on private display, he looked into Loba's eyes. Would his gesture get through? The chimera had hoped such to be the case.

Noticing Siorc had been communicating to her with sign language again, a slight somber look had appeared on her face. Had he been telling her to take care? Not being familiar with every sign, teaching herself further in the future certainly had to come into fruition when a moment of reprieve were available to her.

"I am not completely sure what you're trying to say to me," Loba replied, inquisitive tone in voice. "But, you take care as well, honey." Waving goodbye, she averted her eyes. A study session was to be in order.

Farewells being given, the hyena highlighted the Teleport Waypoint to the military barracks. Eyes being closed, the fast travel to the permafrost north had begun. Snow roaring like a wolf in Wolvendom, the hyena halted his return to the steel walled room. Ice and snow were a vicious beat of burden.

Walking towards a heat source room, the hyena sat down the furthest away from the soldiers within the room. Machine of Fatui creation preventing dangerous freezing, the soldier let out a blissful sigh. Such moment of bliss however, was short lived. Whiffing the scent of alcohol, the hyena covered his nose. Having heard a saying that in Snezhnaya, if one shared Fire-Water with someone, they were a worthy person to battle with, the scent was of no mystery to the man.

Unknown Fatui within his jurisdiction offering him a drink, the hyena stood up within an instant. Knowing his partially human stomach could not handle any form of liquor, the chimera shook his head. Figuring he had reached his limit with the heat source room, the soldier exited the area. Heat sources were a luxury that could be taken away within a moment.

Steel walled room eventually upon him, the soldier sat on the icy cold floor. Wind slamming the window harder as the hours raged onward, a sea of thoughts flooded the hyena's partially human mind. A month of non-stop snow awaited the permafrost north, for certain. If such were the case, thirty days of mundane nothing surely awaited him again tomorrow.

Nightfall hitting the area, a wave of tiredness had overcome the early adult. Hairpins, earrings and glasses removed, he slumped into the rock hard bed. As he closed his eyes for the world of sleep to take him, subdued thoughts of confidence played on repeat inside the chambers of his partially human brain.

A day of nothing but business affairs awaited him tomorrow.

***

"Cat and rat chimera appeared at my door today,
Her Majesty, just how many chimeras does she have under her control?
I'm starting to worry, quite honestly.
Maybe there are more Fatui in her army than I once thought,
Even thinking such, I can't help but feel a sense of unease.
Rat chimera looking nervous, I feel increasingly guilty,
All and her, she ordered this, this sense of unease, it is beginning

To eat me.
Resigned to my forced upon fate as a soldier,
I must remain diligent, and obedient.
Perhaps, just maybe, whatever is in store for me, won't be too difficult,
Low hanging Visions on their belts,
Everything is making sense to me.

The Cryo Archon is requesting a battle from me
A battle I cannot escape I
Guess being an adult in this cold breeze, my hands may get dirty.

There is nothing I can do about it, diligence is key.
Every order she gives me, I have to follow it, or my life will be over.
Agent nowhere to be seen, perhaps, the day before
Me won't be difficult, I suppose I have to get ready. Submission is mandatory.

The sound of morning alarm bells echoed through the area with a cacophonous shriek. As the alarm bells made their presence known, the groans of hundreds of Fatui soldiers boomed with a roar. The alarm bells were right on time, as usual. Regardless of such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.

The various groans had been more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Chilled wind slamming the windows and groans overpowering any alarm bells, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Uniform on, and plain hairpins and earrings clipped into place, the soldier awaited his orders with due diligence. Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, he turned his attention to the door.

As the seconds turned into minutes, an odd metallic sounding bell clanged in the hallways, the hyena tilted his head. The plink of the object roaring about, was someone else relaying his duties to him today? Sound of the bell increasing in volume, the early adult put on the most diligent face possible. If a new subordinate were coming his way today, obedience was key. Odd sound's volume eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.

As his possible new subordinates entered the doorway, the hyena backed two steps away. At the door had been two young women he had never seen before. Her Majesty, had she hired new Fatui within his jurisdiction recently? The soldier did not know, but he knew asking questions was not allowed as a Fatui soldier. Two young women standing about, the hyena studied the possible new soldiers.

Standing to the left side of the door had been a short woman more than twenty centimeters shorter than him. The young woman had short chestnut hair that went down to where a human's ears would be. Black ribbons to the sides of her hair, the hyena blinked. Her teal eyes were huge. Eyes standing out like a sore thumb, another outlier made its presence known. Within the woman's hair had been large brown rat ears. Was the young lay a rat chimera? He supposed such could have been the case. Typical Snezhnaya wear on her body, the soldier turned to the woman to the right side of the door.

Towards the right side of the door had been a taller woman ten centimeters taller than him. The young lady had orange hair that went down to about her shoulders. Ginger hair tied back into a ponytail on the left side, the hyena focused his attention on the top of the head. On her head had been loose hair sticking out, and two furry cat ears. Ears being orange as well, and eyes yellow like a cat's, the soldier stared at the young woman's outfit. Generic Snezhnaya wear upon her possibly partially human person, the soldier tilted his head. The metallic bell's sound, had it come from the cat girl? Scarf covering any possible metallic object, the hyena closed his eyes. Had he been hearing things? Sounds were a sea of mystery. Ending his examination, the young soldier made eye contact with the two young women.

Women talking to each other for a moment, the chimera rose an eyebrow. If the two of them were rat and cat chimeras, how were they getting along so easily? Weren't cats and rats enemies in nature? He supposed it was no business of his what the relations of two strangers were. Two women eventually turning back to him, the hyena awaited his orders in silence.

"Ah, this has to be him, meow!" the ginger cat girl said, almost purring. The shorter woman then spoke.

"Ah, um, hello!" the rat girl said, voice shaking. "You're Diplomatic Soldier Siorc, correct?"

Crouching down to meet the rat chimera at eye level, Siorc nodded. Not wishing for the two chimeras to hear his voice, the soldier awaited the next part of his orders with due diligence. Returning to his currently human feet, the soldier kept his eyes on the two young women.

"Oh, good, we have the right barrack, then!" the cat girl replied. She then turned to the rat girl adjacent to her, lowering her head. "Isn't that great, Krysí?" She then turned to the purple haired chimera inside the room. "Oh, oh, right! We should probably say why we're here, meow!" She was practically purring as her meow bounced off and around the steel walls. "That Agent of yours is away on business, so Her Majesty commissioned us to help you today!" She extended her gloved hands out. "I'm Ryś, by the way!"

Extending his bare hand, the chimera and Ryś' hands made contact. Handshake coming to an end, the rat next to the cat chimera swayed back and forth. Was Krysí nervous? Cats and rats being natural enemies, being paired with a predator within nature had to have been the worst possible outcome for her, but such judgement was not his call to make.

"Ah, um," the rat chimera eventually said, voice shaking. "I'm Krysí." Extending her gloved hand as well, she stood on the tip of her toes.

Second handshake coming to an end, the early adult tilted his head. Why had Her Majesty sent chimeras to the military barracks today? Seeing no Fatui insignias anywhere on their outfits, it had come to the young soldier's attention immediately. The two chimeras before him were normal, everyday citizens of Snezhnaya. Could they have been with the Snezhnaya Adventurer's Guild? Having seen a guild within nearly every corner of Teyvat, he supposed such could have been the possibility. Ryś turning to Krysí once again, he waited for the instructions to reach his inhuman eardrums.

"Krysí, my dear," Ryś said in a forced sweet voice. "Tell him what our commission is, meow?"

Rat chimera's face turning crimson within a second, she returned her attention to the soldier towering over her. "Her Majesty wants you to collect three Chaos Cores and some Chaos Circuits," Krysí said, rubbing her hands together in a nervous manner. "Through Liyue and Monstadt." As she finished her sentence, the cat chimera made her roar known.

"And you don't have a Vision!" Ryś interjected. "So, we're here to help at her request, meow!" The sound of a tail swishing could be heard from behind her. "We aren't Fatui, but we're glad to help!" She then turned to Krysí. "Krysí, my dear, transform into a rat for me, please?"

Hearing Ryś' request, sweat poured down Krysí's back. Transform into a rat, here and now? Cat partner giving her expectant eyes, the choice to not do so had been ripped out of her tiny gloved hands. Taking a quick deep breath, she closed her eyes. Body shrinking down, the rat opened her huge eyes. Human body below the neck now a rat one, doll clothes had been placed into her tiny paws. Tiny body clothed, she crawled onto the cat chimera's shoulder.

Seeing the transformation right before his eyes, Siorc jumped four steps back. There were chimeras that were able to shrink their bodies? Other chimera's biology were vast and different indeed. Rat jumping on her shoulder, and two chimeras looking ready, the hyena stepped forward. Hallway upon him, the hyena lead the way. Supply closet door in front of him within six minutes time, the soldier turned the knob.

Door opened, the party of three stepped inside. On the wall had been weapons. Silver claymore staring at him, the hyena took the familiar greatsword off the rack as quick as his human hand would allow. Seeing a portable trunk with a note on it reading, "for my lovely chimera," the soldier placed the weapon into the bin. Polearm and second claymore placed into the carrier as well, the hyena turned to his temporary teammates, for a moment.

"Ryś, take out the big book," Krysí said as she returned to human form. "You forgot to mention what we're hunting." A nervous sniff had echoed throughout the walls of the closet.

Ryś' face had become vermillion as Krysí reminded her of the mission. How could she forget the most important part of the mission? Bell chiming from behind her scarf, she returned to the mission at hand. Excitement had come with loud consequences.

"Ahh, I was just about to, my dear!" Ryś shouted, blushing to the snow covered moon. "But, okay! We're fighting Ruin Guards with you today! First location should be..." She opened the book in her gloved hands. "Ah! Guili Plains, meow! Siorcy, could you open the map thingamajigy Her Majesty gave you?" Closing the book, she pointed to the hyena's pocket.

Order being given, the chimera opened the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb into map form. Watching as Ryś placed the big trunk on her back, the soldier highlighted the four point star in the corner of the map. Liyue selected, he highlighted the waypoint to Guili Plains within an instant. Pressing the teleport button, he returned the map into orb form, hands being held out, the three were linked together like folded paper dolls.

As the teleportation to the area began, the three chimeras closed their eyes. Fast travel was blinding, as always. World of battles about to unfold, a quick thought graced his partially human brain as the fast travel ended.

Today was a day of business affairs, nothing more.

***

Teleport waypoint placing the three chimeras in a large, grassy area, the three member party walked forward. Being told an icon should be present within his proxy map in orb form, the soldier placed the orb on the hook of his uniform pants. Small Ruin Guard icon appearing towards the Luhua Pool area, a gulp had released from the esophagus.

Location of the Ruin Guard being a small distance away, the three stepped onto the dirt path. Yellow grass littering the path, the unkempt plant crunched underneath the chimera's heelless shoes. Ruin Guard icon inching closer, the three kept walking. Small grey cliffside scaled, the icon kept getting closer.

Seeing nothing but a large tree stump bridging two areas together, the trio proceeded with caution. Disconnected staircase reached, the three ascended. Small rock temple in front of the six eyes, a large brown robot sat dormant towards the stone pillars.

Claymore in Krysí and Siorc's hands, and polearm in Ryś', the battle had begun its beginning stages. Core activating, and Ruin Guard standing, the three were ready. Red and blue orbs glowing on the hooks of the cat and rat's pants, everything was ready to begin.

"Here goes, meow!" Ryś screamed at the top of her cat lungs. "Kitty fire fist!"

White gloves thrown off, the young cat chimera's fists had been on fire within seconds. Seeing such attack, the hyena closed his eyes. Ryś had a Pyro vision? What an absolutely terrifying vision to be gifted by the gods. Sound of fiery fists hitting the large robot, the soldier's eyes remained shut. Flames were a horrifying sight to behold.

Ruin Guard slowed down a smidgeon, Krysí concentrated her energy. Water flowing inside her, she placed her currently human hands in front of her. "Uh, sea rats, hear me!" she cried, voice echoing. Her face then turned vermillion within an instant. "Ryś, I don't want to say that! It's embarrassing!" It was almost as if in worlds even beyond Teyvat, attacks were shouted to the heavens, no matter how ludicrous the idea seemed.

Rats in the shape of water surrounding their host, the rat pointed her finger at the robot. Torrents of water meeting the flames, the elements had shook hands. Elemental reactions were quite the convenient weapon within the world of Teyvat. Enemy being weakened, the two turned to the Fatui.

"Now's your chance, Siorcy, attack!" Ryś shouted with valor.

Opening his eyes, sweat had formed upon the hyena's brow. Did Ryś just address him with a nickname? The young woman before him was incredibly friendly to the highest possible degree. But, there was no time for pondering. Defeating the Ruin Guard had to come of him now. Silver greatsword secure, the soldier was ready.

Slashing the monster five times, a triple party attack had been on the horizon. Polearm and claymores hitting every side of the enemy, defeat had eventually resounded throughout the high altitude area. Robot crashing to the ground, the sound of items dropping onto the ground roared in an echo.

Items glowing green on the stone floor, the hyena crouched down. Why had the item the creature dropped been glowing such a color? Cat girl shaking her head, the soldier heaved a sigh. Being told the item was not a Chaos Core, but a Chaos Device, the early adult placed the item into the trunk.

Book opened again, the next area had been revealed within seconds, Ruin Guard icon in between the Cuijue Slope and Minlin areas, the the three teleported to the next area with due diligence. Yellow grassy plain near a wooden bridge, the three proceeded to the next area with caution. Small dirt road wedged between the yellow fields, the three kept pressing onward.

Ruin Guard icon pointing upward, the hyena let out a grunt. Climbing was a mandatory evil. Stone mountainside underneath his feet, the three ascended the mountain slowly. Stamina was a limited resource. Topside reached within eight minutes time, the next enemy had been within the triple line of sight.

Robot standing near a podium, the orange core lit up. Enemy standing, the battle had begun, albeit ending as soon as the fight had begun. Weak spot on the back hit with a singular flaming punch, the monster faded into the ether. Items glowing blue aura this time, the Chaos Circuits had been tossed into the trunk.

Being told the next area they had to go to was called Lingui pass, the soldier highlighted the waypoint closest to the area. Odd platform separated by large bodies of water, Siorc gulped. Swimming was not his strong suit. Water seeming shallow enough, the chimera paddled like a dog. Broken staircase to the other side, the party of three walked northward.

Odd podium with a yellow diamond symbol on it, and unlit torches in the pathway, the three chimera's legs erupted into a sprint. Enemy icon pointing downward, the three turned to one another. Opening the orb into map form for a moment, the soldier studied the robot's location carefully. The Ruin Guard had been far higher on the map than the three had anticipated. Triple grunt echoing through the area, another stone mountain top had been conquered.

Enemy within a distance as the climb ended, the monster had been within reach. Creature turning to its backside, the hyena's currently human legs shook vigorously. The Ruin Guard, was it already preparing its attack? Claymore in hand, the young soldier slashed about. But, the attack would soon be met with a counter.

"Siorcy, watch out! It's about to spin its arms!" Ryś shouted.

But, it was too late. Her cries could not be heard. Ruin Guards arms spinning in a wild fervor, the soldier let out a labored scream. Arms swinging with a violent passion, the robot and his hips had made their acquaintance. Attack enough to leave deep bruises, the hyena sunk to his knees.

Brutal swing coming to an end, an overwhelming amount of energy flowed through Krysí. Hydro vision's light at its maximum, the rat shifted her legs. Small aquatic rats forming into a large aquatic rat monster towering above her, a torrent of rodent waters had been unleashed onto the enemy. Torrential devastation crashing onto the war machine, the Ruin Guard soon faded into the ether.

Item with a purple aura dropping onto the ground, the rat chimera picked up the item. Item placed into the trunk, she turned her attention to the injured Fatui before her. Soldier rubbing his hips, a concerned look graced her nervous face. Had the young soldier been gravely hurt by the attack? If medical attention were necessary, she knew she had to say something.

"Are you alright?" Krysí asked, concerned tone in voice. "Should we take you to Bubu Pharmacy?"

Hearing Krysí's concern the chimera shook his head. Injured or not, he knew he had to keep going, no matter how many small bruises he were to get while fighting. Time not being his while on the nonexistent clock, detours were not an option.

"I am fine, miss," Siorc replied, voice barely audible. Raising to his feet, the hyena clicked his tongue as the stings of pain made their rounds. "We need to keep going."

Krysí and Ryś shrugging their shoulders, the next location had been revealed within seconds. the soldier stared at the map in silence. Ruin Guard location moving towards the Brightcrown Mountains, the early adult pushed his finger towards the waypoint. Clicking the teleport button on the waypoint near Brightcrown Canyon, the fast travel had been over within a blink of a mismatched eye.

Grassy hillside leading to a dirt road plagued with Anemo Slimes, the hyena swung his claymore. Fifteen slashes dealt, the creatures of unintelligence popped like a balloon on the wind. Monster distractions dealt with, the three chimeras sauntered onward. Stone passageway having no stairs, the three jumped the stone ledge. Hips stinging, the hyena clicked his tongue. But, he knew, no matter what pain he was currently in, he had to keep going. The choice was not his. Stone ledge leading towards another stone staircase, the party of three descended.

Robot spotting the three from a mile away, the enemy honed in. Ruin Guard speeding forward, its back had been turned yet again. Greatsword in his human hands, the chimera swung the weapon with a fervor. Witnessing Ryś hit the backside earlier, the soldier slashed the core on the creature's back. Sparks flying within seconds, the machine dropped to the ground. Enemy fading away, another item with a blue aura had dropped.

Chaos Circuit tossed into the trunk, the early adult rubbed his hips. The pain was increasing with every continued movement. But, the hyena would not falter. If he were to give into the pain now, Her Majesty would be disappointed for sure. Next area soon confirmed, the soldier tilted his head as the icon permeated within his damaged field of vision on the orb.

Observing closer, the orb had been turned into map form. Robotic icon within an area known as Stormterror's Lair, the soldier tiled his head. Wasn't such an area restricted to the general public? He recalled a time in his early childhood when his father had said performing research there was not allowed. Would entering such area truly be permitted?

Feline and rodent chimera pair shaking their heads, the hyena highlighted the waypoint towards the forbidden lair. Ancient pathway in front of him, the soldier stared off at the teal light off in the distance. Would traversing through the area even be possible? Seeing an odd device in Krysí's hand, no question would leave his lips.

Teal barriers destroyed with a shockwave from the Snezhnayan created device, the three walked forward. Ruin Guard on the ground floor, the three linked their hands together. Disheveled stone platforms descended through teamwork, the three walked forward.

Enemy walking towards the team of three, the six legs broke into a speedy sprint. Ruin Guard near many stone platforms, the claymores and polearm had been deployed within a matter of seconds. Multiple slashed dealt, the creature would not budge. Machine turning backwards, the three chimeras jumped backward. However, such moment was fleeting.

Bullets charging towards Siorc, the soldier let out a loud scream. Bullets honing in towards his hips, the scream increased in volume. Machine's bullets slamming his sides like hailstones hitting the head during Snezhnaya's major storms, anger had boiled into overdrive. Shutting his eyes for a moment, his human arms had transformed into hyena claws.

More bullets coming his way, his sharp teeth grinded together. Claymore placed on the ground, the hyena rose his currently furry limbs with a ferocious roar. Spotted arms flinging about, the bullets boomeranged in the opposite direction. Projectiles returned to the owner, sparks had begun to fly around the creature.

Enemy severely weakened, Ryś backed several steps away. Legs in a fighting stance, her polearm charged at the creature with a violent roar. Spear delivering six slashes, her Vision glowed a vicious red. Removing her gloves for the second time, flaming fists and the Ruin Guard exchanged blows. Core on the machine's waist burning a bright orange as her fists of fire raged about, the flames spread through the creature's autonomous body. Robot collapsing to the ground and fading as the fire grew, defeat resounded in the area.

Items with a blue and green aura dropping to the ground, the rat chimera crouched. Chaos Device and Chaos Circuit secured with the trunk, she turned to the Fatui again. Hyena arms rubbing his hips again, the concern on her face grew. Were the soldier's injuries getting even worse? If the injuries were left unchecked for much longer, the consequences would be dire.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Krysí asked, worried tone increasing. "We really should take you to Bubu Pharmacy or the Church." Her rat tail had been twitching from behind her as she kept speaking. "You really need a healer right now. Neither I, nor Ryś, have healing capabilities."

Hearing Krysí's suggestion, the young soldier shook his head. Take him to a healer while he was still on the job? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Seeing any sort of healer at the moment was out of the question, for sure. Mouthing the word no, the hyena trudged forward.

Seeing Siorc mouth a rejection towards her, the rat chimera dragged out a somber sigh. The purple haired Fatui was a stubborn one. Lip quivering, she could feel defeat grab her rat tail from behind her. If he did not want to see a healer, her say in the matter was ripped out of her gloved hands. Arguing with a counter point not coming to her, she turned to her cat partner instead.

"If you insist," she replied, meekly, lips still quivering. She then looked into Ryś' eyes. "Uh, where next, Ryś?"

Snezhnayan book opened up, the feline inched towards the Ruin Guard entry. Location marker within the book reading Stormbearer Mountains, she shut shut the book with a violent slam. Large tome returned into her pocket, she pointed at the hyena's orb with excitement.

The last Ruin Guard of the day had been upon the trio.

"Stormbearer Point, meow!" Ryś responded, practically purring. "My bobcat talons are ready!" Cat claws out in the open, she slashed the air as though a portal were about to break open into the open wilderness.

Location confirmed, the hyena opened the orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint closest to the area, he dissipated the map back into orb form. Fast travel ended within a quick closed eye, the party of three opened their eyes. Hyena claws retracted back into human ones, the soldier observed the area before him with due diligence.

Surrounding the three of them and off into the distance had been many grassy plains separated by another dirt road. Ruin Guard icon on his map pointing downward, the chimera had come to wonder: did Ruin Guards only gather in places across a dirt road? The man did not know, but the pattern was too frequent to ignore.

Three chimeras walking across the pathway, a sea of trees had soon engulfed the trio. Enemy icon still pointing downward, and cliffs to the left side, the hyena let out an irritated grunt. Why was the location marker on his proxy orb so unspecific? Three hands linked together, the triple triad climbed upward. Grassy plain littered with multiple stone pillars, the the limbs had been unlinked within seconds.

Brown machine within their line of sight, the six legs exploded into a swift sprint. Ruin Guard activating within seconds, the three chimeras shifted their legs. Weapons slashing forward, the blows had been dealt, but such success had been ended within seconds. Creature's arms raising, a scream had bubbled within the cat chimera's throat.

"Siorcy, jump back!" Ryś shouted, voice raising.

Enemy's arms spinning about, Siorc jumped ten steps back. Feline and rodent chimera dodging in tandem, the Ruin Guard's arms punched the air. Attacks not reaching the target, the machine jumped about. Stomp of its mechanical legs shaking the ground with a roar, the hyena's possibly human rear and the grass had met. Shockwaves continuing for minutes on end, the soldier stayed put.

World shaking attacks coming to an end after awhile, the hyena rose to his currently human feet. Machine's waist on public display, the three darted their weapons towards the lower area of the autonomous body. More than a dozen triple slashes dealt to the bottom core, various grunts bounced off the stone platforms. Sparks flying as dozens more slashes were blown upon the lower half, defeat had eventually come for the monster.

Item with a purple aura dropping to the ground, the rat chimera picked up the item. Placing the item into the trunk, she counted the items quietly. Counting only two Chaos Cores, a nervous frown had graced her tiny face. The locations within the book for Ruin Guards had reached its end within the Mondstadt and Liyue areas in Stormbearer Point. If the exact number of Choas Cores had not been delivered, their commission results would be inadequate. Recalling a time Her Majesty dealt a violent repercussions to one of her fellow coworkers within the factory, fear grabbed her tail tight.

"We don't have enough chaos cores," Krysí whispered, lips quivering. "What should we do now?"

Hearing her rat partner inquire in fear, the bobcat chimera pumped her clawed fists together. Seeing another Ruin creature within the Snezhnayan created technological book, the answer already had a solution. Tail swishing from behind her, she readied her solution with a fervor.

"No worries, no problem, meow!" Ryś exclaimed, fingers and cat claws curled. "There's a Ruin Hunter near Cuijue Slope according to Her Majesty's book!" She then pointed to the orb on the hyena's belt. "Siorcy, highlight that thingy on your map where the enemy marker is!"

Opening the orb into map form, the chimera tapped the Liyue area in the map. Enemy marker indeed near Cuijue Slope, the soldier highlighted the area nearest towards the enemy's icon. Fast travel occurring within seconds, the area had been reached within a blink of a heterochromatic eye.

Grassy area with more grey cliffsides upon the three of them, a wave of tiredness almost overtook the hyena. Hips stinging, the soldier clicked his tongue. Pain was a beast of burden. Grey rocks conquered with difficulty, the three sauntered forward towards the northeast direction.

Cuijue Slope eventually reached, and rock formations ascended, another broken stone pillar had been within a distance. As the three walked forward, Siorc examined the dormant creature to the side of the former stone monument. Powered off had been another brown machine similar to the multiple Ruin Guards the three member party had faced throughout the day, but the two machines were not similar, in the slightest. The brown machine had four mechanical arms, and no legs. How would such machine operate without legs? The chimera did not know, but there was no time for pondering.

Machine activating, the monster slashed forward. Blades on the sides of its four arms, the enemy was armed, and ready. Blades and his hips meeting, the soldier and the grass met. Barely any energy remaining, the hyena could feel his eyes grow heavy. Wave of defeat hugging him from behind, his hips stung like a Cicin in the open wilderness.

Seeing the Fatui Soldier land on the grass, an oil bulb had went off in the bobcat chimera's head. Pillars beside her, it had come to her within an instant. When the Ruin Hunter were to be closer to the ground, perhaps, just maybe, plunging towards it with her polearm would finish the machine with a singular blow. Hyena looking too weak to move, the world of defeat had been on her feline shoulders.

"No worries, I got this!" Ryś shouted in an excitable manner. She then turned to Krysí. "Krysí, transform into a rat again for me, please?"

Hearing Ryś' request, sweat had poured down Krysí's back for the second time of the day. Transform into rat again here and now? Just what was her partner planning? Clapping her hands together, she closed her eyes. Body shrinking down, her huge teal eyes shot open within a second. Doll clothes handed to her, she had been clothed almost instantly. Everything covered, she crawled onto the feline chimera's shoulder like a one meter high yellow mouse with red cheeks in another universe.

Feeling her partner's tiny rat legs on her shoulder, the feline hopped onto the edge of the stone pillar. Top reached within seconds, Ryś thrusted forward. Polearm in her left hand, she slashed about with a catty frenzy. Ruin Hunter toppled from above, the slashes of her spear continued.

Crawling down the machine's body, Krysí's rat teeth had been sharp, and ready. Biting down on the arms, sparks had begun to fly on the enemy. Machine dropping to the ground, the pair dismounted onto the grass below. Feeling an overwhelming amount of energy, Ryś' Vision had been at its brightest.

"Shadows of the fire cat flow through me!" Ryś cried at the top of her lungs.

Battle cry shouted to Celestia above her, flames and her cat claws had become one, fire blistering with a passion, the feline lunged forward. Slashes of her fiery cat claws hitting the Ruin Hunter's bottom area, her combustible attacks continued for another ten seconds. Flames engulfing the machine, the final blow was in sight.

"Krysí, now!" the feline shouted, tone of valor present in her voice. "Summon the water rat!"

Returning back into human form, the small aquatic rats had become a large rat monster. Energy having reached its maximum shortly after her feline partner's had, the finishing blow had been a no brainer to the rodent. Aquatic rat monster towering over her, the torrent of rodent waters crashed over the enemy. Fire and water vaporizing the opponent into smithereens, the machine had been no more.

Item with a purple aura dropping to the ground, the bobcat chimera picked up the item. Chaos Core placed into the trunk, the two turned their attention to the injured Fatui before them. Shaking him lightly, they rose the hyena to his currently human feet. Waiting for him to look at them, their faces were wrecked with worry.

"We're taking you to that Cathedral in Mondstadt," Krysí said in a matter-of-fact tone as possible. She then undid the proxy orb on the hook of his uniform pants. "You need a healer, right now."

Barely having energy to argue, Siorc said nothing. Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map snatched from his partially human person, he supposed he had no choice in the mater. Waypoint to Mondstadt highlighted by a finger other than his own, the young soldier closed his eyes as both his hands were held tight.

Another battle was about to occur within the cathedral, for sure.

***
Capital City of Mondstadt reached within seconds, the feline and rodent chimera would not falter. Being told by Her Majesty that if seeing a healer was absolutely necessary, Mondstadt was the better option, the two travelled through the city at a Ruin Guard's walking pace. Hyena's body about to go limp, the extra weight remained a challenger on the battlefield.

Cathedral eventually upon the three of them, the doors had been opened. Benches to every side of them, the two women pushed forward. Young woman with pigtails in a white dress standing in the center of a mosaic tile, the ladies made eye contact.

"Hello, our friend needs healing," Ryś said, slightly dishonest with her choice of words. "He injured his hips during a battle."

Purple book of magic spells in hand, a small warm smiled had appeared on her face. "Leave the healing to me!" the young lady exclaimed.

Ring of water surrounding her, the young woman's arms moved about as though she were dancing. Small shots of healing droplets had been aimed at the affected area. Enough water having been administered, a small tune had been hummed by the healer.

"He should be okay now," the healer said softly. "But, please walk carefully!"

Feeling the pain dissipating, awareness had been returned to the chimera. Looking upward towards the owner of the voice, the hyena's eyes blinked rapidly. The deaconess, had she healed his injuries? He knew he had to thank the deaconess, Krysí, and Ryś if such were the case.

"Thank you, misses," he said to the three of them, voice tired. "I appreciate it."

Hearing the hyena thank her, Krysí's eyes almost watered like the vision beside her. Was thanking her, the healer, and her chimera partner necessary? She supposed gratitude was a given, but unexpected. Rarely hearing the two words while in the factory back in Snezhnaya, she continued to hold back the tears forming within her.

"No thank you is necessary," Krysí replied, words whimpering. "Our job is done today. We should take you back to your room."

Knowing that was his cue to remove the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket, he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks slowly. Lethargy was eating away at him like a bowl of hot Jewelry Soup, the hyena closed his eyes. Triple triad reaching the military barracks within a split second, the three walked forward.

Steel walled room upon him, and palms let go of, he turned his attention to the feline and rodent chimeras. Item trunk on Ryś' back, he stared at it lifelessly. Were the two going to return everything to Her Majesty themselves? Would such a task be allowed to go on without him? He knew he had to say something, but no words would leave his lips. Trudging outside the door, the early adult would not falter. But such trudge forward was halted within seconds. Wrists gripped into a lock, movement had been cancelled within seconds. Duo looking as though they had something to say, the hyena let out a tired grunt.

"No, no, we'll take the Chaos Cores to Her Majesty," Ryś replied, practically purring. "Your job is done for today, meow!" Pushing him back into the steel walled room, Krysí's voice had soon joined the battle.

"We will return the weapons as well," she replied. "Worry about resting." Bowing her head, her legs shook. "Please, take care of yourself, alright? Farewell."

Bobcat and rat waving to him, the hyena returned the favor. As the two left his field of vision, the soldier let out a sigh. Was this really okay? Letting the chimera pair deliver the Chaos Cores and Circuits to Her Majesty without him? He knew if he were to disappoint Her Majesty, his life would be over in an instant. Fatigue about to take him away, thoughts had begun to fade out within the chambers of his partially human brain.

No longer able to fight the fatigue, Siorc removed his hairpins, earrings and glasses. Uniform off, he weakly slumped into the rock hard bed. As his head hit the pillow, a final barrage of thoughts hit him as the world of sleep invited him back into the world of the subconscious.

Her Majesty, just what was she planning? For what purpose did she need machine cores from Ruin Guards? Whatever she had planned, it was something sinister, for sure. The Chaos Cores, nothing good would come of them if such were in her hands. Sleep about to take him away, one final thought poked him like an annoying neighbor at a party.

Technology was a beast, indeed.

TW: IMPLIED ABUSE

8. Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 5: Gefroren Family Drama Edition

"Keeping myself obedient seems to
Absolutely break my sense of time,
I'm certain now,
Somehow, I have completely lost track
Every day passing, is it really?
Really, truly?

Getting this feeling, time is frozen
Even more frigid than this cold breeze
Frosted over, are months truly passing?
Really do not know anymore, everything is the same
Or is it? Perhaps my brain
Readily forgot such concept
Even with these days off before me
Nothing is moving forward, time is breaking."

Dreaming had continued its endless reign of torment within the adult chimera's subconscious mind. The pattern of anguish would not cease, even as his adult life kept marching about with an inexorable roar. The agonizing cycle would continue in the night before him, as well, although a curveball had been thrown upon the dream battlefield.

Before him had been a setting that had been no more in the mortal, waking world. In front of him was the pathway to his house the hyena used to reside in before his forced removal. But, an oddity had been presented before the early adult as the dream eyes observed further. The house near the forest, it had not been disheveled like it had been in reality. Was his mind giving him a break, for a change?

Nostalgia was about to stab him in the back like a Skyrider Greatsword.

As the dream minutes continued, two familiar faces from the past had appeared in front of his former abode within the land of the subconscious. Long purple hair, purple eyes and generic Mondstadt wear he'd recognize anywhere, and short green hair, jade eyes, and business attire he could never forget. His parents, many years gone, stood by the house, lifelike as ever.

Seeing his parents in the not reality before him, the early adult let out a gulp from the dream esophagus. Just what were his parents doing here? Were they angry with him? He supposed, if his mother and father had become spirits in some way, becoming vengeful over the years was a possibility to be had, for sure.

Former parents looking straight at him, the chimera flinched. Were his ghost parents about to say something to him? Vengeful spirits or not, the hyena knew he had to listen to what their souls had to say. Alive, dead, or not, respect was a mandatory etiquette.

"We just want to see him one last time," his mother said somberly. "Before it's our time to go."

Father nodding, the soldier tilted the dream head. They wanted to see him one last time before it was their time to go? He supposed ghosts in the mortal plane had a time limit. How long had it been since they had become spirits in between worlds? Half a decade, a quarter? The chimera did not know, but he knew one thing for certain, and one thing only.

He had to apologize. Apologize to his mother, apologize to his father; apologize for everything. If his tail had not popped out the day they had gone pumpkin picking, none of the events that had occurred would have happened. He would not have been removed from his family, forced to become a Fatui; his family would still be amongst the living. If their final days as ghosts were upon them, he knew an apology had to be in order.

"Mother, father, I'm sorry," Siorc cried, voice beginning to shake. "All of this is my fault." More words had resided within the dream throat, but no more could be said. Tears were all that remained.

Parents turning to one another, their ghost shoulders shrugged within the not reality. Conversing to themselves for a moment, the hyena stared off in silence. Did they expect such an answer of him, even as unworldly spirits? No matter how many years were to pass, parents knew their children best, even after death.

"No, son," his father said, voice steady. "It's not your fault." Turning to his wife's soul, her turn was next.

"We don't blame you at all for what happened," his mother responded. "So, please don't feel guilty." Her violet eyes were warm, and gentle, like they always were in her time alive.

Hearing his parent's words, the chimera's dream face broke into a river of tears. Even after time had moved forward for him, his parents remained the same. He recalled hearing in a storybook in his stolen childhood that ghosts were wandering spirits with an attachment keeping them between worlds. Was their attachment to the mortal world seeing Hase and he again, one last time? Souls were oddly pure beings.

As the dream minutes roared onward, a flood of thoughts crashed through the subconscious. Even through the mundaneness that was his Fatui life, the suppressed desire remained. Even if desires were not allowed, the suppressed wish had uprooted itself. Seeing his parents one last time, even if seeing spirits was an impossible feat for him, the soldier knew, the moment in the not reality before him was a moment of yearning. Realizing such, the hyena knew, he had to say something to his parents. Time was ticking.

But no words would escape his dream throat. Tears continued to stream down his unfeeling face in the not reality within the land of dreams. Words were a carcass in the casket, dead and gone, with no one coming to the funeral. As the dream minutes proceeded onward, the tears would not cease, even for a subconscious moment.

"We've missed you so much," his former father said, ghost voice echoing. "You've grown up into an adult. We're glad we got to see you one last time." Turning to his wife, their souls were fading as the dream seconds turned into minutes. Time had run out.

"Goodbye, Siorc," the fading parents said in unison one final time.

Translucent bodies disappearing, the ghosts were no more. Spirits' presence fading away, the soldier could feel a nonexistent door shut from behind him. Seeing his parents one final time, a feeling of absolute bliss had flooded within the subconscious body. Hyena tail swishing behind him, the soldier closed his eyes. Such bliss was about to end within a matter of seconds. A faint scent of simulated fire could be whiffed by the early adult's subconscious nose.

"Ika!" a creature cried from behind the chimera. "Kundala!" Uttering a battle cry, the scent of simulated flames only got stronger.

Hearing the battle cry, the hyena turned his head to the right. Just when had a Hilichurl appeared six meters behind him. Flaming crossbow in hand, the soldier closed his eyes in defeat. Flaming arrows and uniform making their acquaintance, a labored scream broke from the dream throat. Flames intensifying, the man sunk to his knees. Bliss was fleeting, safety had left the building.

At least he got to see his parents one last time.

***

One month had passed since the young soldier fought Ruin Guards with the rat and bobcat chimeras. Nothing of note had happened within the adult chimera's Fatui life. Business affairs in Dadaupa Gorge dragging about in the thirty days, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

During his various business affairs, the early adult had come to wonder: just what was the purpose of the various mundane business affairs throughout Teyvat? Negotiation, supply chains, debt collecting, inquiring other subordinates in the other nations, none of such affairs made sense to the chimera, in the slightest. But, he knew no matter what questions ever brewed inside him, none were allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier. Regardless of such monotony, the hyena remained loyal, and diligent.

Upon waking up from his tormented slumber, tears streamed across the soldier's face. The dream he had robbed his emotions like a certain phantom thief in another universe fifty one years in the making. But such person was unknown to every person in Teyvat. Sorrow possessing him like a ghost, the chimera slowly rose from the uncomfortable bed. Time was a limited resource. Tears flicked away, and glasses being on, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he dressed in his uniform, various thoughts of unease made a meal out of him. His parent's souls were restless for years. Had some external force prevented ghosts from contacting people in their mortal lives? The chimera did not know, but such thoughts had to leave his head immediately. The hourglasses' sand was about to reach the bottom.

Snapping the final uniform button shut, the chimera shook his head. He had no time for such thoughts. The Agent could arrive at any moment. His mundane orders of nothing would be relayed within minutes; thoughts that had nothing to do with the job at hand had to exit the chambers of his brain immediately.

Taking a quick deep breath, the chimera clipped his hairpins and earring in place. Adorning matching black hearts in his hair and ears, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. The hairpins his parents gave him as a reward for doing chores in his stolen childhood, he knew those were the ones he should wear today. Knowing the Agent's orders were close, the chimera turned his attention to the door.

But no footsteps had ever arrived. Never hearing groans in an echo, the chimera titled his head. Had his thoughts drowned out sound around him? Silence playing on repeat, the hyena put on his heelless shoes. Perhaps, just maybe, if he looked outside the door, The Agent could still be right around the corner.

As the hyena stepped outside, a sight to behold greeted the early adult. On his door had been a note. Peeking at the other doors nearby, paper had littered every single door within the military barracks. Note having been written in Snezhnayan writing like it always had been, the hyena read the note in silence.

"You have three days off," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing had said. Seeing the words on the paper, fear had begun to devour him whole. Her Majesty, just what was she planning this time? He knew, getting a holiday off was never a good thing. Did another major project await him whenever she were to return?

Returning to the soundproof room, an idea had hatched an egg inside his partially human brain. Family fresh on his mind, the yolk inside the dormant shark grooves in his brain boiled over. Hase, could she have been having similar dreams as him? Perhaps, just maybe, seeing his parents in his dreams would lead to their reunion.

The dream he had was in Mondstadt, but, the soldier knew searching in Mondstadt again would lead to nowhere. Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map orb in hand, the chimera opened the orb into map form. Perhaps, just maybe, his hacked map could provide him hints of where to search, for the day off at hand.

Clicking the white star on the right side of the map, the hyena highlighted the Mondstadt area of the map. Dragging his currently human finger downward, a particular area on the map screamed at him. The icy border between Mondstadt, and Liyue, Dragonspine, could Hase be there? Never going to the lesser permafrost north for anything other than deliveries, searching for his sister in the area had never crossed the early adult's mind.

Noticing an area on the Dragonspine map entitled Entombed City - Ancient Palace near a greyed out waypoint, the hyena highlighted the Waypoint closest to the inaccessible one. Waypoint above Wyrmrest Valley highlighted, he dissipated the map back into orb form.

As the teleportation to the lesser permafrost north began, the chimera closed his eyes. Fast travel was never easy on the eyes, no matter how used to it the hyena may have been. World of snow about to await him, thoughts of his family flooded his brain.

The one member search party was about to resume.

***

"Really do not know what Her Majesty is planning,
Every day she is away on business, something sinister may be happening
Guess there is nothing I can do about it,
Inevitably, whenever she returns, her orders are absolute,
Never can I disobey Her Majesty,
After all, the water could still be hot.

Glee is not an emotion I feel on these days off before me,
Emotions of happiness, it's just not a feeling,
For the most part, joy is fleeting.
Right, deep down, I know, I cannot be happy, as long as I am a Fatui. But,
Obedience is key. Silence is my reckoning.
Really, nothing can be done. I am her property, a piece on her chessboard.
Even so, I suppose this day off beckons me.
Never should I waste this free time; it is finite."

Teleport Waypoint placing him underneath a stone platform, the chimera examined the area with due diligence. In his heterochromatic field of damaged vision were a multitude of large arches covered in snow. Mountains to both sides of him, the hyena had come to wonder: was Dragonspine merely a large mountainside bridging Mondstadt and Liyue together? The soldier off duty supposed such could have been the case. Wooden bridge to the side of the of the mountains, the hyena sauntered towards the walkway.

As he walked upon the wooden path, an oddity had presented itself. Absolutely no humans had been present within the area. Before he were to continue walking, the chimera turned his partially human body in the opposite direction. The opposite direction did not have any people around, either. If not a single person had been around, perhaps the one member search party would not be met with a challenge. Less people or not, the hyena kept walking.

Walkway leading to a large gap, the soldier off duty deployed his wind glider from behind him. Other side of the wooden path reached, the hyena sauntered onward. Wooden trail reaching its end, the chimera turned his head to the right and left. To the northern side had been a camp. Perhaps, just maybe, someone could have been residing in the camp? Resolute on his decision, the hyena walked towards the northern direction.

Camp upon him, the hyena jumped seven steps back. In the camp had been various machines he had never seen before. Could the area he had stumbled have belonged to a scientist? No one being present within the camp, the question would not have an answer. However, luck and the archons were on his side within a matter of seconds.

Hearing the plink of metal chains getting louder as the seconds turned into minutes, the chimera turned his head to the direction of the sound. Approaching the camp had been a young man with short brown hair, a white hoodie, and blue shirt. Black boots approaching, the hyena continued to stare in silence. The short brunette, why did he look exactly the same as he did many years prior? It was almost as if, in worlds even beyond Teyvat, people only aged when it was convenient for a story to move along. The chimera, however, was not bound by this law of the worlds. But such world principle was unknown to the early adult.

Witnessing the purple haired soldier within his alchemy camp, the brunette placed his gloved fingers on his chin. Recalling the the purple haired individual adorned hyena limbs during their last encounter, a cautious hypothesis had seeded itself within his synthetic body. If the young man's shark brain had activated by now, danger greater than the destruction of Mondstadt would reach Teyvat. Still seeing the Fatui uniform upon him, caution radiated throughout the camp.

"It's you again," the brunette said, words spaced out a smidgeon. "Have you, perhaps, gotten yourself lost?" There was no emotion to be had in his voice.

Brunette inquiring about if he had been astray, the chimera shook his head. He supposed, to the brunette he had looked as though he had wandered into his camp by accident. If his former clothing from Mondstadt had not been removed from him many years prior, wearing such outfits could certainly come into fruition. But such was no longer a possibility within his adult soldier life.

Taking note the brunette had not mentioned Hase, the chimera had come to wonder: had the brunette not seen her? He supposed asking would not hurt. Taking a deep breath, the hyena readied the forbidden art of asking a question.

"Have you seen Hase, sir?" Siorc asked, words barely audible. "She has short, wavy green hair, and wears earrings."

Inquiry reaching his synthetic ears, the brunette placed his gloved hand on his chin. The description the Fatui had provided indeed sounded quite similar to to a young woman he had taken as a disciple in the past. Should he tell the hyena chimera about his past encounter? Hypothesizing relaying the truth to him would not present any danger, he supposed it would be in his best interest to say so.

"Hase... ah, yes," the brunette responded. A long pause had been inserted between Hase's name and the next word spoken. "She was one of my students, for some time." His gloved hand had been on his chin again. "Taught her basics in alchemy."

Lead being provided, the soldier off duty's heart skipped a beat. The brunette, did he just mention alchemy? Remembering a few months prior, a young woman had mentioned Hase had been learning alchemy from her as well, the chimera knew such two incidents could not have been a coincidence. The alchemist, could Hase have told him where she was headed next? Even if Hase had been his student a long time ago, he knew he had to ask. Taking another deep breath, he readied his second forbidden question.

"Did she tell you where she was headed next, sir?" the chimera asked. More questions had formed inside him, but he knew he could not ask any more. Her Majesty could be listening anywhere from Teyvat.

Alchemist shaking his head, the hyena's head sunk downward. He supposed it was a given at this point that Hase had not told others her whereabouts. Lead growing cold, the chimera bowed his head. Turning his heelless shoes in the opposite direction, the early adult staged his exit. If the alchemist did not know, perhaps heading to the next area of the lesser permafrost north would provide better results. Camp behind him, the soldier off duty headed towards the northeast.

Chimera leaving, the alchemist studied the young man in silence. The young man, if he had still been with the Fatui the shark brain center would activate soon. If such were to happen, caution would need to be exercised.

Life altering alchemy was a dangerous beast.

***

Multiple mountains scaled as the soldier off duty kept heading northeast, a pant had let loose from the hyena's partially human esophagus. The cold air was at its thinnest the higher he were to go. Icy battlefield within his damaged field of vision, the chimera deployed his wind glider.

Familiar waypoint nearing, Siorc descended to the icy ground below him. Waypoint providing warmth, the hyena let out a tired pant. Icy mountaintops were quite the vicious landmark. Rest coming to an end, the chimera descended the frozen staircases. Fatui camps within the distance being empty, the soldier off duty let out a gulp. The usual Fatui within Dragonspine were nowhere to be seen. Why had the lesser permafrost north been so barren? The early adult didn't know, but the less Fatui around, the better. No one to bear witness to him, the soldier kept walking.

An enemy had appeared on the battlefield.

As he walked towards the cages, a terrifying face had been within his line of sight. Standing by the wooden prisons had been a terrifying young man slightly taller than him. His spiky white hair with goggles was a frightening sight to behold, for sure. His light green eyes had a sinister glow to them, radiating an aura of horrifying disaster. Bandage on his nose, and clothes with many patches on them throughout, the chimera could feel his blood freeze.

Ending his examination, the chimera trudged nine steps back. No, not him, not the young man with the goggles. Anyone but him. Of all the people he had to encounter in Dragonspine, it had to be Mondstadt's most unlucky person. He had heard various rumors throughout the capital city during his diplomatic affairs. The young man with the goggles, if one were to stand near him too long, his bad luck would rub off on him. The Dragonspine stationed Fatui, had they left the area to avoid the terrifying unlucky adventurer? Bad luck was a disease no one wanted to contract.

Unlucky boy turning to him, a chill had run down his partially human spine. The terrifying young man, did he have something to say to him? Whatever it was that he wished to say, the soldier off duty was not interested, in the slightest. But, it was too late, the boy's lips had already been moving.

"Hey!" the horrifying unlucky boy exclaimed, fists out in excitement. "You look like a girl that joined my adventure team!"

Hearing the unlucky boy say he resembled a girl that had joined his so-called adventure team, the hyena's mismatched eyes twitched. Hase, had the young man's bad luck rubbed off on her? The various tales he had heard about this young man from various civilians in the background, there was no way they could have been false.

Knowing if he were to stay near the terrifying young man any longer, his bad luck would rub off on him, the hyena bolted as swift as his legs would carry him. Hearing the young man curse his luck in the distance, the early adult accelerated his sprint. Away; he had to run as far away from the unlucky boy as possible. Bad luck and he could not meet today, there was no way.

Odd red grass beside him, the chimera kept running. Not a single Fatui or person around in the area, the soldier off duty accelerated his sprint. Cave entrance closed off by a steel gate, the chimera tapped the button. Gate opening, the hyena halted his sprint, for a moment. The cold air, the sheer cold was about to take him away. Bonfire nearing, the early adult stood by the warmth for a few minutes. While fire was terrifying, flames of a bonfire were necessary for survival in the lesser permafrost land. Closing his eyes, the fire was no longer within his field of vision.

Feeling warm enough to continue, the man gazed towards the northeast direction. To the side of the bonfire had been a blue walled pathway. Nothing of note within the area, the hyena turned his heelless shoes to the opposite direction. Returning his legs to a sprint, multiple areas blurred through him. He knew he had to keep running, or the goggle boy's bad luck would catch up to him.

Stone staircase nearing, the hyena halted his sprint. His parents had always told him to never run up the stairs. Multiple staircases ascended, an oddity had presented itself within his damaged line of sight. Everywhere he looked, strange blue icicles had been wedged near the cliffsides. What an odd landform Dragonspine was. However, as he stared at the large blue crystals, the sound of waddling had soon been behind him. Turning around, a sigh of disgust released from the chambers of his throat.

Just his luck, the pest of a penguin chimera had appeared.

"You there," Kaiser said, voice as exaggerated as usual. "Have you finally come to your senses and see how beautiful I am?"

Siorc rolled his eyes to the sky. Why was it that whenever he was in Dragonspine, the pesky fly had to bother him? He supposed, it was not as bothersome of an ordeal while on a holiday, but regardless of such, dealing with such partial person was far too exhausting. Preparing his cold shoulder, the soldier off duty readied to walk away.

But, his walk away had been halted within seconds. The pest of a penguin chimera's eyes looked desperate. Had something been on his mind? He supposed, if hearing him out would get him to leave him be during his search party, he could allow it, for the moment. Penguin about to speak again, the hyena gave eye contact.

"Wait," Kaiser exclaimed, words seeping with desperation. Rummaging through his beautiful, godly, hand sewn pocket, a shirt had appeared in his hands. "At least look at the beautiful outfit I made!" Unfolding the shirt, the penguin placed the shirt in front of him.

Seeing the shirt in front of him, the hyena's eyes sparkled. On top of the penguin chimera's gaudy outfit had been a beautiful, lacy white blouse with a frilly button down center. On the collar had been a black, silky ribbon. Seeing such outfit, he could feels his currently human hands reach for it. He despised admitting to such, but the outfit the pesky fly had made, it was beautiful. But, he knew he could not say such. Pushing his hand downward towards his hips, the hyena let out a somber sigh.

He wanted it. The lacy, silky outfit.

Despite such desire, enacting upon such would get a whistle blown on him, for sure. If a Fatui were to return if he were to take the outfit, they would tell Her Majesty. Shaking his head, the desire switch within him had been switched off. Desires that were not work related were not allowed for a Fatui Soldier.

Fatui's eyes sparkling, Kaiser puffed out his chest. Had the soldier finally woken up and seen the light? His godly, silky hand sewn outfit, his eyes were practically glued to it. Wordless praise given, the gorgeous penguin of Dragonspine tooted his horn.

"See, it's beautiful!" Kaiser exclaimed in a prideful manner. "I know you want my gorgeous, handmade outfit!"

But, no answer ever came. Staring at the outfit off into space, the soldier off duty let out a somber sigh. Desire to purchase the outfit about to leap out of his partially human throat, the chimera turned his head towards the large blue crystals near the cliffsides. Shaking his head, the hyena readied to stage his exit. If the lacy outfit were in his field of vision any longer, Mora would be in his hands. Although, such exit was halted by the sound of more waddling footsteps from behind him.

"Kai, it's time to come home," a young female voice said. Her voice sounded like a less exaggerated Kaiser. "Dinner will be ready soon."

Second penguin waddling through, the chimera studied the second person upon the Dragonspine battlefield. Standing near the tall penguin had been an older teenage woman maybe two centimeters taller than him. The young penguin woman had long yellow wavy hair that went down to about her backside. Front fringed bangs swept to the right with mini braids beneath it, the hyena stared at the woman's eyebrows. The woman's eyebrows were far thicker than normal. Her eyebrows were thick, golden strands of hair that stuck out like a bow in a sword battle. Kaiser having similar strands of golden hair, it had come to the man immediately: the second penguin had to have been related to the pesky fly. Clothes being normal, however, the soldier off duty held the thought. Black outfit with no exaggerating proportions, the chimera peered down towards the snow. On the ground had been orange webbed feet. Returning to the thought from before, the resemblance had been inescapable. The young woman and the penguin, they had to have been related.

Witnessing the penguin chimera stiffen, Siorc turned towards the opposite direction. Family affairs were no business of his. But, as his legs pushed forward, a jolt of nonexistent electricity stopped the man in his tracks. The penguin's reaction, why had it felt concerning? The pest had always been a thorn in his side, but the hyena could feel it: something was amiss, for certain. Nonexistent jolts continuing, the early adult stayed put.

"Regina," Kaiser replied, voice normal. Exaggeration was a corpse in the snow outside. "Is he angry?"

Watching as Regina closed her eyes, Kaiser's face twisted into a terrified look. Folding the handmade outfit back up, the shirt had returned into his handsewn pocket. Regina placing her hands behind her back, he could feel his penguin crests begin to stick up. Fear was an ugly emotion.

"He seemed a little irritated," Regina admitted, hands clutched behind her back.

Hearing her words, Kaiser's beautiful, moisturized face grew dark. If he was irritated, a barrage of horrifying insults would come his way. No way, not today. If another emancipation threat were shot towards him, his insults would melt his pores.

"Then, I'm going to Good Hunter for dinner tonight," Kaiser exclaimed, frantic tone in voice. "Goodbye!" Haphazard farewell thrown across the icy wind, the penguin's webbed feet had erupted into a waddling sprint.

Penguin gone within a blink of an eye, the younger penguin turned to the young soldier. Young penguin woman waddling closer to him, cold sweat had appeared on his brow. The younger penguin, did she have something to say to him? Seeing her wave, the hyena waved in tandem. Whatever it is she may have wanted, he knew he had to listen. The distress in her orange eyes was evident, turning a blind eye at the point in time would be terribly rude of him, for sure.

"Good evening," Regina greeted politely. "My brother didn't bother you too much, did he?" Her hands had been linked together from her backside. "He's attached to people similar to him."

The chimera tilted his head at such comment. Attached to people similar to him? What did the young penguin mean? Kaiser having similar features to him, he supposed that could have been what his younger sister meant. While the pesky fly was like nails scratching a wooden notice board, telling the young woman such would start a battle. Not wishing to start a fight, the hyena shook his head.

"No, miss," Siorc responded, voice barely audible. Whether coming off as genuine or not, hurting a person's feelings was an act he wished to avoid, at all costs.

Purple haired boy shaking his head, Regina rose an eyebrow. Could the young man have been lying? Taking note of the insignias on his outfit, caution fired sparks in her head like her brother's Vision. Lying, or telling the truth, however, neither mattered. The feminine Fatui, he was the only one that could convince Kaiser to return home. While the Fatui were nefarious people, choice had flown out of her hands.

"Hmm, you might be lying," Regina admitted, suspicious tone in voice. "But could you come with me to Mondstadt, please?" Moving her hands to her front side, she folded her hands into a pleading position. "Maybe he'll listen to you if you're next to me."

Regina's eyes on him, the soldier off duty allowed a sigh to ride the icy wind. Should he really be involving himself in another family's affairs? Even if he should not, a realization had wiggled into the dormant shark grooves in his brain. Perhaps, just maybe, if he were to help out in the situation before him, the thorn in his side would no longer bother him on a workday if Dragonspine deliveries were to return in the future.

Rummaging through his pocket, the Teleport Waypoint proxy map had been in hand. Opening the orb into map form, he highlighted the waypoint to the capital city of Mondstadt with due diligence. Dissipating the map into orb form, the Snezhnayan technology had been pocketed. Hand being held out, the penguin girl had grabbed it within an instant. Fast travel beginning, the two chimeras closed their eyes.

Was a battle about to begin with the walls of Mondstadt?

***
"Kai, I'm so sorry,
Our father's wrath is relentless on you,
No matter what I say, he just won't listen
I'm tired of his anger towards, you, it is unwarranted.
Grisly threats of emancipation.

Grisly threats of renaming you to Peasant Geforen.
Each and every one of us, sans König, we have had enough of it,
Frightening words of unloving,
Repulsive words of unloving,
Our father's wrath on you is never-ending
Really sorry all of this is happening,
Even when I say something,
Nothing reaches his ears. His awfulness, it's deafening."

Upon reaching the capital city through the waypoint, Regina shook her head in bewilderment. Letting go of the Fatui's hand, her jaw dropped open. What in the world was that fangled contraption? Mouth staying open the young penguin shook her head for the second time.

"Wait, so, that thing can beam you anywhere instantly?" Regina inquired, bewildered beyond belief. "Scary. Never doing that again!"

Penguin girl presenting fear in her voice, the chimera bowed his head in apology. Unusual concepts to others were a terrifying phenomenon. Young woman bowing in tandem, the two walked towards Good Hunter. Kaiser being nowhere in sight, the two placed themselves on the wooden chairs of the sit down restaurant.

Various minutes passing, the slam of a purse had echoed on the table. Zipper coming undone, a small pair of pink shoes had been in her tiny hands. Shoes underneath the table, the slippery squeak of bare feet and shoes meeting created a dissonant cacophony.

Purse away after a few seconds, the soldier off duty's eyebrow twitched. Did penguin chimera's webbed feet return to human feet under certain climates? Feeling the warm air hit his face, he knew such had to have been the case. But, other chimera's anatomy was no business of his.

Two hours passing, the eventual sound of bare footsteps echoed throughout the area with a vain roar. Sun about to be at the bottom of the sky, nightfall was almost upon the entire nation. Regina motioning her hand towards him, the chimera and she rose from the chairs. A sister and brother confrontation was about to be on public display.

Purse in front of her, Regina undid the zipper for the second time of the day. Reaching for her bag, large brown sandals with a flower on the straps appeared in her hands Placing them in front of her, she looked into Kaiser's eyes firmly.

"Kai, you can't walk around barefoot," Regina said, waving the sandals in front of him. "Here are your shoes." Shoes on, she proceeded with her next words carefully. "Now, come on, Kai, please come home." Her hands had been in a praying position below her lips.

Witnessing her brother turn his head to the side, Regina lowered her hands towards her chest. But, her pleas fell on deaf penguin ears. Turning back around, the sparkles in her brother's eyes had been gone, dead, missing. His personality outside Teyvat, would have been a blue screen, for sure.

"I don't want to right now," Kaiser replied, personality absent. His words had no flamboyant flare to them whatsoever.

"Maybe he won't say anything to you tonight," Regina responded immediately, pleading tone not leaving. "Come on, Kai, you need to come home!" Folding her hands together, they had once again been behind her back. "It will be much worse if you don't, don't you think?"

Seeing the not masculine male Fatui beside his three percent less gorgeous than him sister, the penguin chimera turned towards the exit. Sandals upon his feet, he dragged his rarely there human legs forward. Shoes were an ugly garnish. What a disgusting piece of rubber upon his hideous human feet.

Sparkling pink outfit facing the backside, Regina stepped forward. Knowing that was her cue to go, she turned to the Fatui one final time. A matter of utter importance was at hand for the day at hand tomorrow. Would the young man have time the next day? She hoped such to be the case, but the world of employment was a busy one.

"I know my brother can be annoying, but could you keep an eye on him tomorrow?" Regina asked, pleading tone of voice. "He might..." She cut herself off. There was no way she could finish the sentence she had begun to roll out.

Siorc's heart skipped a beat at the sudden ending of Regina's sentence. He might? Might what? The drag in her words, the chimera could not help but feel an ominous feeling in them. But, perhaps, if he had helped out, the pesky penguin would no longer bother him while on the job anymore. Reluctantly resolute on his decision, the chimera removed the proxy map from his pocket. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, he returned the map into orb form. Fast travel to military barracks beginning within an instant, the hyena closed his eyes.

Soundproof room eventually upon him, immediate tiredness had overtaken him. Everything being removed, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. As he closed his eyes for the world of sleep to take him, a few thoughts looped on repeat within the chambers of his partially human brain.

The younger penguin chimera, she had definitely commissioned him. He supposed, for now, the one member search party would have to be subdued, for the moment. The ominous words Regina had cut off, what would Kaiser do? No matter how much he pondered it, no good outcome would arise from it, for sure. World of sleep taking him away, the thought played on repeat on final time.

What was Regina trying to say?

The drag in her words as she said it was a ghost.

***
"Pretty sure the young penguin was implying something sinister,
Really I cannot shake it off, this high amount of unease.
It is still playing within the back of my mind, "He might..."
No matter what, the words, they just won't leave,
Zig-zagging in my head, they take a seat.

Guess I have no choice, I should take this commission,
Even though he is a thorn in my side, if something drastic were to unfold,
For sure, I would be the one to blame. Her words, "He might..."
Right, I have to do this, it is my duty.
Ordinarily, I would not get involved in such things,
Right, if I do not do something,
Everything will be my fault.
Now, I suppose, I could think of this as a business affair. As though it is a workday of monotony. Diligence is key."

Upon waking up the next morning, the chimera would not falter. Matching strawberries clipped into his hair and ears, the hyena was ready for the self proclaimed commission at his constantly transforming hands. Returning to the capital city of Mondstadt, the soldier off duty walked forward. Fatui Diplomats talking amongst themselves, the early adult reduced his walk into a tiptoe. He needed to proceed with utmost caution.

As he walked forward, the sight of Regina's profile permeated within his field of damaged vision. Seeing her conversing with a black haired woman, the chimera waited patiently. Interrupting a person's conversation would be terribly rude of him. Young penguin woman turning around after a few minutes, the hyena looked into her orange eyes.

"Oh, you came after all," Regina said, relieved. "Please keep an eye on Kai today? I have to deal with a few commissions." Her words sounded as though she was in a hurry. "Today, Kai usually shows up here in the city, and our older brother might be on duty in town." Her words still sounded as though she was in a hurry. "Can I count on you? Our older brother isn't very nice."

Taking note of the yellow orb on the hook of her pants, the hyena nodded. The Adventurer's Guild were quite the group of busy people. He supposed, in the meantime before Kaiser were to arrive in the capital city, inquiring about Hase could temporarily come into fruition.

"Thank you so much," Regina responded to the wordless confirmation. "Take care." Vision glowing on her hip, the young penguin woman had headed towards the exit.

Regina taking her leave, the chimera turned towards the opposite direction. The younger penguin, she had mentioned her brother had been on duty today. Could the older brother have been a Knight of Favonius? Figuring such to be the only logical conclusion, the soldier off duty sauntered onward.

Windmill within a distance, the hyena headed towards the Mondstadt symbol. People within the area, the quick question about his sister had been fired. Odd woman in a green outfit not having seen Hase, the soldier off duty proceeded towards a large staircase. Elderly man near another windmill, the repeat question had been fired. Man of many wise years stating he had never seen his sister, the hyena walked towards the west.

Blinking hard for a moment, Regina's words repeated in his mindscape. Shaking his head about, the chimera regained focus. Right, he had no time to dawdle, a commission had been upon him. Thinking for a moment, the early adult pondered: where would a vain person like Kaiser head within the capital city? Relaying back to Regina's words, the soldier off duty snapped his currently human fingers. An epiphany had appeared.

Outside of the Knights Headquarters eventually upon him, a sight to behold had been before him. Standing to the side of the headquarters had been Kaiser, and a bigger Kaiser. New face before him, the chimera studied the person with due diligence. Standing beside the staircase had been an adult man possibly five centimeters taller than Kaiser. The man had long yellow hair that went down to his chest. His hair had been loose, and well taken care of. However, an oddity had presented itself. The fringes on the top of his head were thick golden strands of hair. The family of penguin chimeras were related, indeed. Orange eyes matching with the rest of his family perfectly, the hyena stared at his outfit. The Bigger Kaiser, he was in the standard Knights of Favonius uniform. He was not a very high ranked member, he had ventured to guess. Nothing else of note speaking to him, the man ended his examination.

Hearing the bigger Kaiser click his tongue, Siorc sidestepped to the left. The look on the knight's face, was it of disgust at his brother? He supposed it was not his business, but his commission was upon him. Keeping an eye on the pesky penguin chimera was his unfortunate job, for the day at hand.

"I thought I told you not to come here when I'm working," Bigger Kaiser said, disgust evident in his voice. "You're a disgrace to the entire Geforen family!"

Kaiser let out an exaggerated, forced gasp. A disgrace to the entire family, was he? He'll show him who's Archon's gift of all of Teyvat. Father yelling at him before bed last night to become a Knight, or else, he could feel his penguin crown twitch upon his head. Tongue ready for a lashing, the gorgeous penguin tooted his horn.

"König, I'm just here to try and apply to be a knight," Kaiser replied, explosive personality absent. "Please, let me through."

König let out a scoff. This bogus again? His disgrace, and disappointment of a brother, did he seriously think the Knights would want someone like him under them? Not a chance. He would rather place a bet on which Archon would die next and lose than have his hideous girly brother becoming a Knight alongside him.

"The Knights don't want some girly boy like you," König stated, voice raising in volume. "Don't try that 'I'm pretty' speech again, either."

Hearing the older penguin chimera's horrendous words, the hyena balled his currently human hand into a fist. The penguin Knight, he was even more annoying than Kaiser. Walking forward, the chimera wedged himself between the two penguins. If the man were not a knight, a punch would be blown to his face within minutes.

König gave a fanged smirk. And just who was this standing between him and his pathetic girly brother? Looking at the face of the person in front of him, his smirk grew into a snarl. An even girlier looking boy defending his girly brother? And a Fatui, to boot? How rich. Just as hilarious as if he were to bet on which Archon were to die tomorrow.

"You look just like my brother," König scoffed, cocky tone in voice. "Girly, and useless." Hands moving up and down in place, a fanged smirk returned to his face. "Boys should look like boys, and girls should look like girls. That's just how it works!"

Clenching his human fist even harder, Siorc's blood had become boiling lava. Who did this Knight think he was? Looking like a boy; looking like a girl. Neither mattered to the chimera. While Kaiser was not someone he wished to ever relate to, he knew the penguin had to have felt similar. Lava about to erupt inside him, the hyena balled up a second fist. He would not let this backwards man win.

"And that is not any business of yours, sir," he said, voice seeping with anger. "Your hair is just as long as mine, if not longer." His words were sharp, and jagged. "And here you are, telling me 'how it is'." His eyes were indignant, and ready to explode. "Mind your manners, and keep your opinions to yourself."

Snapping his gloved fingers, König clicked his salted tongue. Had a girly boy just put him in his place? Disgusting, embarrassing; disgraceful. He would return to the Knights Headquarters to wash the shame out in the sink.

Brother disappearing, Kaiser could feel a large weight lifted off his gorgeous, moisturized shoulders. The Fatui, did he just stand up for him? While gratitude was beneath him, he supposed politeness could be given to him for saying something. His brother's philosophies were ugly.

"Thank you," Kaiser said, almost with reluctance. "I'm beautiful, he'll see!"

The chimera rolled his eyes to the sky. The pesky fly had to ruin the moment any moment he had. Commission finished for the day, returning to the military barracks had to come of him now. Waypoint to the barracks highlighted, the soldier off duty closed his eyes. Military barracks upon him within a split second, the hyena opened his eyes.

Steel walled room upon him, the hyena sat down on the icy floor. Dream from the other night flashing in his mind, an idea had formed inside him. His father had been a researcher when he had been alive. Perhaps, if he read a research book within the Mondstadt library, his soul could move on more peacefully. Resolute on his decision, the soldier slinked into the hard rock bed.

Everything off, the chimera closed his eyes. He supposed halting his search party a bit would not do any harm to his lack of progress. World of tormented dreams calling him back, the thought played within his fading brain one final time.

Tomorrow, he would go to the Mondstadt library.

***

"Hase, I apologize, but I am subduing my search party for today,
Obviously, no one has seen, you, I have no leads,
Likely you are no longer in Mondstadt,
Likely you are no longer in Liyue,
All and all, a book is calling me,
Now, I do not know if I'm welcome at the library as a Fatui,
Don't know if the Knights will allow me,
Even so, I feel like I must,
Research was our father's entire life, his second family.

Guess I will mostly halt my search for now,
Even if it beacons me.
Favonius library, however, it is calling me
Room of books, it is screaming at me
Of course, I will still ask a few people,
Research is merely only a single day priority,
Even if this doesn't help father pass on,
Never hurts to make an attempt, truly."

Teleport Waypoint placing him on top of a tower, the chimera was ready. Wind glider behind him, the hyena descended to the ground below. Landing near the headquarters, the soldier off duty ascended the staircase. Headquarter doors opening, the chimera turned to the first door near a painting. Library door creaking open, the early adult stepped inside.

Despite his desire to research, inquiring about Hase beckoned him. Signing the word sister to multiple generic patrons, rejection had made its rounds. No leads to be had, the chimera returned his focus to research. Scurrying from shelf to shelf, a particular book had eventually caught his eye.

Removing the Teyvat Travel Guide from a higher up shelf, the hyena placed the book in his currently human hands. The book in front of him, his father's soul would be proud of him for indulging in such a book, surely. Seeing tables a staircase away, the soldier off duty headed towards the ground floor.

As he was about to get lost in book world, the sound of two people sitting diagonal from him blasted in his shark eardrums. Hearing such, the chimera let out an inaudible grunt. Just who was it that had just sat down at the same table as him? He supposed it was not worth getting irritated over, libraries were free of usage for the entire population of the nation. Regardless of such, the disturbance would not go unnoticed.

Turning his head towards the distraction, two people that looked like mini Kaisers sat in the chairs diagonal to him. Just how big was Kaiser's family? If he were to run into any more of his family, he would let out a scream. The penguins were everywhere, invading the warmer world.

Focusing on the person in the left chair first, the soldier off duty had begun his examination, Sitting by the table had been a short young boy who had to have been no older than a mid teenager. The adolescent had yellow hair that went down to about his shoulders. Hair pulled up into a ponytail like his older brother, the hyena stared at the ceiling above him. Was the young man going to scream about beauty like his older brother? If such were about to happen, he would leave the premises in an uneven heartbeat. His eyebrows were gold, and extremely thick like Regina's. Just what in the world were the Gefroren family's oddly placed thick hair? He did not know, but he supposed it did not matter. Orange eyes matching with the rest of his family, and scholarly outfit on him, the chimera turned his attention to the other sibling.

Sitting next to the young man had been a young girl slightly shorter looking than him. Taking note of her height, the young girl could have no older than a preteen. The preteen had long yellow hair that went down to her backside. Hair in the back tied into a ponytail, and small braids in the front, the chimera stared at the eyebrows. Her eyebrows were thick, if not thicker than the boy's next to her. Whatever those golden strands were, he tuned them out of his field of vision within a minute. Orange eyes matching with everyone else's in Kaiser's obnoxiously large family, he quickly glanced at the girl's outfit. Generic female Mondstadt clothes upon her, the soldier off duty ended his examination. The penguin chimeras were stealing his energy.

Adolescent penguin looking his way, Siorc let out an exasperated sigh. What did the penguin chimeras want from him now? The entire family had an annoying problem. He supposed he would listen to whatever the young man had to say, unless it involved beauty.

"Salutations," the adolescent penguin greeted. His voice was slightly deep, but proper. "I apologize if my eldest brother caused you any inconveniences yesterday." He bowed his head as he finished speaking.

Sophisticated words bouncing off the library walls, Siorc's mismatched eyes grew big. The young adolescent penguin, his manner of speech was at much more advanced level than the people within his age group. Before he could say anything to the young man, however, another voice had joined the library party.

"Prinz, bro," the youngest penguin chimera said in a casual tone. "Where's my tutor?"

Turning to his sister, the adolescent penguin sighed. "He will be here shortly, Hollander," Prinz responded in a polite manner. "I implore you to remain patient." He then looked at a strange contraction on his wrist before turning to Siorc. "Very sorry, sir, but I have a student to teach in about three minutes. Pardon me." Exiting the table, one penguin remained.

Picking up the book again, a tap had been poked upon his shoulder. Precious reading time taken away from him for the second time, the soldier off duty let out a secondary inaudible grunt. The Gefroren family, could they not leave him in peace, for even a moment? Penguins were aggravating creatures.

"You should buy clothes from my big bro," Hollander said, slang in her speech. "It would make him smile."

Tutor eventually arriving, book world had soon called out to the chimera. No distractions around to bother him, the soldier off duty's inhuman nose had been within the pages of the Teyvat Travel Guide. Learning various facts about the continent, a smile graced the man's face. His father, had he ever read this book when he was a child?

Halfway through the book, the sound of heeled footsteps resounded in the upstairs area. The head librarian, had she returned for the day? Mind wandering for moment, thoughts of his sister clouded his reading brain. The head librarian, could she have seen Hase? While he knew he would regret asking her, reading with such thoughts ruminating within was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Ascending the staircase, the early adult headed towards the desk.

"Hey there, cutie," the flirty librarian said. "Need something?"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the ceiling. Cutie? He did not wish to hear such disgusting nickname from a woman far older than he. Not wishing to communicate with the librarian with words, the chimera removed the penned quill from her desk. Piece of paper in front of him, he wrote down his inquiry as neat as possible. Question written, he turned the paper to the flirt of a librarian.

"Sorry, sweetie," the librarian answered almost immediately. "I haven't." A yawn had broke loose from her throat.

Librarian being as useless as ever, the chimera had returned to book world. Book finished after three hours, the young soldier closed the book with a quiet slam. Returning the book to the shelf, another thought had crawled into the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

The lacy outfit the pesky penguin had shown him, perhaps, if he bought it off of him, he would no longer bother him during workdays in Dragonspine. Resolute on his decision, the chimera exited the library. Eventually spotting Kaiser sitting on a wooden chair by Good Hunter, the hyena sat adjacent to him. Requesting a pen and quill from the employee at the counter, the early adult was ready.

Writing down his desire, sweat had poured down his back. Her Majesty, could she be in Mondstadt right now, watching him? If such were the case, his life would be over within a matter of seconds. Handing the paper over the penguin, the hyena closed his eyes. The walls in Teyvat were thin.

Opening his eyes, he could see the faintest of smiles on Kaiser's glossed lips. His youngest sister had been correct, buying the penguin's outfit would make him smile. The look on his face, it was not his usual self-absorbed look. An oddity to be had, for sure.

"Of course," Kaiser tooted, ruining the moment. "It's beautiful. I made it, after all!"

Outfit handed to him, the soldier off duty reached for the paper. The chimera knew, knowing the penguin, he would ask for an astronomically high price far outside the capabilities of his Fatui paycheck. Writing down an inquiry about the price, the hyena waited.

"How's 5,000 Mora sound?" Kaiser asked. Business was clearly not his forte.

Hearing such a low price, the soldier blinked. Kaiser was asking for a reasonable price for his outfit? Five thousand was a doable amount, for sure. Mora pouch removed from his back pocket, the hyena slipped the Mora coins into his hand. Slipping two thousand extra, the outfit was now in his possession. Folding the shirt up gently, he inserted the silky outfit in his left pocket.

Kaiser's smile grew wider upon his face. The look on his face, had the penguin never made a sale before? Considering his obnoxious personality, the hyena knew the reason his outfits had not been selling like Grilled Tiger Fish. Perhaps, just maybe, if the penguin had subdued some of his self-absorbed ways, more sales would come his way, but no such words would leave his lips.

"With this, my beautiful outfit with reach Celestia!" Kaiser exclaimed, eyes on fire. "One gorgeous sale at a time!"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the wind filled evening sky. No matter what, the penguin would remain a self-absorbed thorn in his side. Nightfall about to be upon him, the chimera removed the waypoint proxy map from his pocket. The time had come to return to the permafrost north. Back to the military barracks, back to another workday tomorrow. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, tiredness had begun to possess him like a ghost.

Steel walled room upon him, the hyena opened up his uniform drawers. Removing the lacy shirt from his pocket, he lifted up his black shirts and undershirt. Placing the lacy shirt underneath his sea of plain shirts, the chimera sweat nervously. Her Majesty would never notice if it were at the bottom of everything, surely. Closing his uniform drawer, the soldier sat on the icy cold ground, for the moment.

Silk ribboned shirt in his uniform drawer, dread nibbled on his ear. Her Majesty, if she had discovered he had bought something based on his desires, his life would be over for sure. Punishment still within his mind from months prior, the water could still be hot between them, loyal, diligent, or not. But, the chimera supposed, if purchasing the outfit would lead to the penguin no longer bothering him during a work day, the odds were in the hyena's favor.

Staring out the barricated window, thoughts of unease flooded the chimera. Was he even allowed to wear anything that was not his uniform? The early adult supposed such to be the case. Never seeing any Fatui wearing casual clothes on their holidays off, the rules must have existed, surely. He knew now more than ever, Her Majesty laws were absolute. Wearing the lacy outfit would have to wait, for a long time to come. A disappointment to be had, for sure, but rules were the law. Disobedience would lead to his death.

Second wave of tiredness pulsating, the chimera removed his haipins and earrings. Uniform unbuttoned, and glasses removed, the young soildier crawled into the rock hard bed like a crab in the open wilderness. Laying in the uncomfortable bed, one final series of thoughts polluted his mind as the world of sleep had begun calling him back.

Absolutely no one in Mondsadt had seen Hase recently. Hase, she could be anywhere in Teyvat by now. Alchemist not having any answers about her whereabouts either, the trail had been encased in ice. Hase, why did she not want to be found? He supposed such question would never lead to any answer. Knowing the unanswered questions within him would never be solved, Siorc closed his eyes.

Sleep still not taking him, another thought graced him. Hase, if she did not wish to be found, halting the one member search party for now had to come into fruition. Whenever his next day off were to grace him, perhaps, just maybe, excercising with the panda chimera could happen instead. World of sleep about to take him away for the night, the thought repeated one final time as tormented dreams awaited him.

The one member search party was now on pause.

TW: ATTEMPTED SUICIDE, SUICIDE IDEATION, VIOLENCE

9. The Original Chimera's Screams

"Time is fleeting,
How many days have truly passed?
Everything is still blurring together.

For the most part, I am certain
In this monotony, only a few days are truly passing
Relatively speaking,
So little
Time is passing, but is it really?

Can no longer tell, every day is blending, bleeding, blurring,
Hazy, gone, missing.
In this cold breeze, nothing is moving. In this
Momentary amount of days,
Everything is the same,
Repetitive beat.
All and all, it is what it is.

Whether time is looping,
All I must do is remain
Silent, diligent, obedient.

After all, the water could still be hot

For Her Majesty.
As the days remain days,
I must keep working,
Looks like another day of
Utter monotony awaits,
Really have to keep going
Even if only mere days are passing."

One month had passed since the hyena had a run in with the penguin chimera. Nothing of major note had happened within the early adult's Fatui life. Diplomatic affairs dragging onward within Liyue throughout the month, nothing of had been out of the ordinary. Although, a previous development had hastened to a swift degree.

Having days of training sprinkled in between the days of monotony, an undeniable fact had presented itself to the chimera. His training with his practice partner, it had been intensified. Sixth Harbinger providing a sinister Delusion of ice to his training partner, the world of dodging icy arrows had continued with a militaristic roar. Despite such intense changes, the soldier would not falter.

Upon waking up that morning, the chimera was ready. Figuring another day of nothing but diplomatic affairs awaited him, the hyena rose from the uncomfortable bed. Glasses being on, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he dressed in his uniform, a subdued wave of confidence leaked through the chimera's partially human body. Sound of chilling wind slamming the window outside, the hyena knew another day of diplomatic affairs could only be upon him. Snapping his uniform buttons shut, the soldier removed the cover of his hairpins and earring box with due diligence.

Cover having been removed, the young soldier turned his nose at the matching sunflower jewelry and accessory. Flowers and the chimera were still seeing different partially human people. Reaching for the strawberry set, the chimera clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Glaring daggers at the flower set one more time, the hyena closed the box with a roar. Everything being on, and rations devoured, the early adult had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Not yet hearing the footsteps, the young soldier stared out the barricaded window in silence. Piles of snow looking deeper than normal, the chimera allowed a sigh to escape the throat. Snow never seeming to reach its end, traversing from one area to the next within the permafrost north was a challenge to be had, for sure. Such thoughts were ended within a matter of minutes.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agents boots slightly later than normal, the hyena turned his attention to the door. Still figuring a day of nothing awaited him, the chimera put on the most diligent face possible. Volume of footsteps reaching zero, the soldier was ready for the day at hand. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," called out the Agent on cue. "We are going to be preparing the Goth Grand Hotel for Her Majesty's arrival in Mondstadt today." Satchel in his gloved hands, the Agent shook it rigorously. Everything should be cleansed for Her Majesty.

Siorc jumped two steps back upon hearing the Agent proclaim he would be preparing a hotel for the Cryo Archon in Mondstadt. Her Majesty, just what was she planning? Whatever business she had in other nations, it was certainly not a good a thing. Fear nibbling on the cartilage of his ear, the early adult allowed a gulp to release from the esophagus.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you with me? We are preparing the Goth Grand Hotel for Her Majesty! Get a move on!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. He could never fathom what was on his subordinate's mind besides work.

Hearing the name of the hotel again, the chimera flinched. Taking a deep breath, the early adult removed the satchel from his subordinate's hands. Bag placed on his back, he turned to the Agent. Unseen eye contact given, he readied for the gripping prison to take him.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Her Majesty having plans or not, he knew he had to remain diligent. The choice was not his. Arm being held out, the chimera waited for the escort to begin, like it always had.

Seeing the soldier hold his arm out, the Agent straightened the satchel on his commander is arm's back. Bag no longer crooked, he returned his attention to his subordinate within an instant. "Good, let's get going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm in front of him, he gripped the limb into a tight lock.

Gripping prison being relentless as always, the chimera closed his eyes. As the teleportation to the capital city in Mondstadt began, a thought rolled around in the hyena's mind. The Goth Grand Hotel, wasn't it Fatui property? Recalling seeing a Fatui standing guard near the entrance a few times, another thought graced his partially human brain.

Her Majesty was planning something sinister, indeed.

***

"This doesn't make any sense,
How could there be more people like me?
Even after nearly half a millennium, that scientist,
Ruined more bloodlines, didn't they?
Every single day, that corrupt person

Imprints on my memories,
Stays inside in my head, haunting me.

Millennium of living,
Over hundreds of years passing, what a
Retched world.
Every day passing; every day is enough.

That other chimera,
He's one of the Ingnes, isn't he?
Ah, yes, that family,
Nauseating.

Obnoxious group of beings,
Noxious enthusiasm,
Energetic people are poisoning me.

Obtuse, obnoxious, ridiculous,
For there to be other people like me.

Maybe a jump will clear my mind.
Yes, really. Another jump is upon me.

Karma will not come for me,
I'm tired of this world, this city of faux freedom, living.
No Archons shall get in my way,
Do not interrupt me."

Upon reaching the capital city of Mondstadt through the Teleport Waypoint, multiple conversations had been fired. Agent conversing with the Fatui Diplomats stationed in the area, the chimera remained silent. Hearing intel provided to the two, the soldier tilted his head. The Diplomats in Mondstadt, just what was their purpose in the Anemo Nation of Freedom? The early adult did not know, but it mattered not to the man. Conversations coming to their eventual end, the two proceeded onward to the location at hand.

As the two proceeded towards the hotel, however, a cacophony of noise buzzed throughout the area with an obnoxious roar. Generic nobodies standing about near a small fountain looking off into the distance, the chatter about made the warm air hotter with every word spoken. As the drag towards the Goth Grand Hotel continued, the chatter about would not cease, even for a moment.

"Someone's trying to jump off the roof over there!" a voice shouted, frantic.

"Quick, someone stop them!" another generic voice shouted. A generic quote for a generic person, indeed.

Chatter continuing about, the hyena had been removed from the gripping prison. Agent giving him unseen eye contact, sweat had formed upon the chimera's brow. The Agent, was he about to tell him to go deal with the situation at hand? He supposed such could have been the case. Distractions were beneath many of Her Majesty's Fatui.

"Deal with the distraction, soldier," the Agent said, gloved hand pointing towards a red roofed building near a windmill. "Come back quickly."

Order being given, the hyena looked off into the distance. Within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision stood a figure on top of a red roof. Allowing a sigh to release from the partially human throat, the chimera sprinted past the fountain with due diligence. Staircase upon him, the chimera turned to the left. Screams increasing in volume as he headed closer towards the building, another sigh had dragged on the wind of freedom. Why, of all the orders given, was the one before him necessary? Surely, just maybe, the person could have been collecting bird eggs on the rooftops. Having seen adventurer's do such act before, the generic citizens had to have been overreacting.

An astronomically incorrect assumption on the hyena's part.

Person on the edge of the roof as he proceeded forward, fear wrapped vines around his chest. Hearing multiple people scream for the person not to jump, the soldier closed his eyes. Was there about to be a death in the capital city of Mondstadt on public display? Not wishing to bear witness to such event happening, the early adult kept his eyes shut. Screams increasing in volume as the seconds marched on inexorably, a loud thud hit the pavement. Screams dissipating, an unusual voice had made itself known on the wind.

"I'm fine, get out of here," the voice said. Such act was a normal afternoon activity for the person. Crowd of people not dissipating, the person clicked the tongue in the mouth. Eyes closed for a moment, the human hands had become snakes. "Get out of here, I said!" Lunging the snakes forward, a loud hiss echoed throughout the area.

Citizens screaming about, Siorc opened his eyes within an instant. Knowing if the distraction wasn't dealt with, The Agent would tell Her Majesty, the young soldier walked forward. Person standing by a set of wooden tables and chairs, the hyena sauntered onward. Person two meters away from him within seconds, the early adult made eye contact.

Person studying him, the hyena studied the person in tandem. Standing about in a frantic position had been an androgynous individual barely any taller than him. The person had green hair pulled back into a high ponytail, and black eyes with no life in them. Green snakes in place of where the hands would be, the chimera's eyes grew wide as his examination continued. The person's outfit looked nothing like anything from around Teyvat. Odd black robe with no sleeves trailing to the floor, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. The robe, just what era was it from? The hyena had no idea, but he knew he could not ask any questions.

Purple haired person with a hyena tail standing within the presence, the gorgon grit the teeth hard. There had more people like the snake. The scientist, had they tampered with more human lives? The freckles on the person's face, and short stature. The person in front of the snake, were they an Ingne? Clicking the tongue, the person inched the snake hand closer. Could the purple haired person have been the child of the ridiculous researchers who barreled through the ancient city the medusa used to reside within centuries before? If such were the case, the child would be an obnoxious obstacle to combat.

"How could there be more people like me?" the snake said under the breath. The voice was heavily accented.

Hearing the person's words under the breath, the hyena backed four steps away. More people like the person? Feeling his tail swish from behind him, the hyena's face had become instantly crimson. His tail had been visible for the entire city population to see, how embarrassing. Closing his eyes for a moment, the tail had disappeared from behind him within an instant.

Snake hands invading his space, the soldier backed six more steps away. The hostility presented by the person in front of him, did the snake handed individual have issues with other chimeras? Person seeming as though another chimera had never been something the other had witnessed, he supposed disbelief was a normal reaction. Not wishing to respond to the person, the soldier stared off in silence.

No obnoxious energy radiating from the hyena tailed person, the gorgon lowered the snake hands. Closing the eyes for a moment, the snake arms had become humans ones again within an instant. Why were they being so incredibly quiet? The couple from many centuries before, hadn't they been researching immortality? Time was a disgusting measure of never-ending tomfoolery.

"That scientist, they," the gorgon said under the breath. But, the snake the shook the head. What good would it do to tell the person the truth? Centuries were far apart from one another. "Never mind, I said too much." But, as the words rolled out, another person had entered the area.

Generic brunette woman in everyday Mondstadt wear crossing her arms, the snake rolled the eyes. Yet another human of the modern age was here to flap their lips at the individual. Another speech about not jumping and scaring people was about to grace the eardrums. Facing the other direction, defiance made its rounds in the area.

"Kígyó," the generic woman said. Her arms were crossed tight around her waist. "Quit scaring people with your antics, or I'll tell Goth to cancel your lease." Her words were firm, but absolute.

Turning back around, the person identified as Kígyó glared at the generic woman. Yet another day of threats to cancel the lease to the apartment the individual did not wish to even rent. How incredibly obnoxious the modern human race was. The city of freedom was a city of lies.

"Maybe," Kígyó replied with defiance. Indefinite answer being given, the gorgon turned the head in the opposite direction. Woman leaving as the answer had been given, the medusa clicked the tongue. "Humans like them are why I want to jump." More words under the breath had been said on public display.

Witnessing the person act out in defiance, Siorc backed two steps away. The snake handed individual, getting on the wrong foot with the person would lead to badmouthing under the breath, for sure. Whatever bad mouthing were to come his way was no business of his. Distraction dealt with, the chimera had readied to stage his exit, however, such exit was halted by the sound of the individual's voice. Turning his head, the early adult gave eye contact to the speaker.

"There are more chimeras when there shouldn't be, that dragon..." Kígyó said under the breath, voice indignant. The black eyes then met the hyena's. "How old are you?" Came the person's question immediately after.

Siorc jumped seven steps back upon hearing the snake person's question. Wasn't it rude to ask a complete stranger their age? Black eyes continuing to glare at him, the chimera took a deep breath. Perhaps, just maybe, answering the question would satisfy the person enough. Not wishing to answer the question with words, the young soldier held up an unknown amount of fingers. It was almost as if, a word of a god prevented the exact number from being presented to the audience.

Kígyó closed the eyes of darkness for a moment as the number burned into the brain. Human hand turning into a snake, the gorgon turned the snake towards the neck. The hyena chimera, just how many generations in their bloodline had they been? Five centuries having passed since the body's permanent transformation, the medusa pressed the snake closer towards the neck.

"Five generations of chimeras is four too many," the snake said, fangs piercing the side of the neck. Wishing for the person to leave the presence, a parting gift graced the person as the gorgon backed away towards a stoop nearby. "I am the original chimera, I guess." Key in the left human hand, the instrument had been inserted into the lock. "You should not have met me, goodbye." Door opened, the person had exited within seconds.

Snake handed person exiting to the house, the hyena's eyes grew wide. The snake person was the original chimera? Words ringing within his shark eardrums, the chimera shook his head. Distraction being dealt with, he knew he had to return to the hotel, the choice was not his.

Agent within his line of sight within forty seconds, no words had been exchanged between the two. Agent guiding him inside, the world of work awaited the young soldier. Being instructed by the Agent to dust the hotel windows, the chimera would not falter. Removing the satchel from his back, the early adult examined the contents with due diligence. Within the bag had been various cleaning tools. Knowing time was not his, the chimera prepared himself.

Pane glass in front of him, the hyena leaned forward. Multiple Fatui around the area dusting the area at breakneck speed, the soldier swirled the duster upon the window like his life depended on it. Knowing Her Majesty, if even one spec of dust remained, a soldier's life would be ended on public display within the castle walls.

Not wishing for such outcome to arrive, the chimera dusted everywhere possible. Feather duster filled with particles, the soldier huffed, for a moment. Dust dissipating after awhile, a black figure with a commanding presence appeared almost out of nowhere. The figure had been nothing more than a shadow staring at the dozen of soldiers. Shadowy arms pointing about, an order was about to make its rounds within the hotel walls.

"This place needs to spick and span for her Majesty! Hop to it, soldiers!" the shadow said. He then pointed at Siorc. "You there, don't just sit around, clean this window!" Bucket filled with water appearing out of nowhere, the cleaning utensil had been handed to the hyena.

Shadowy figure vanishing as quickly as they appeared, the young soldier removed the sponge from the bucket. Dipping the object into the water, the glass pane and the absorbent rectangle and the pane glass had met. Grime slowly dissipating from the window, the hyena took a tired breath.

Agent inspecting carefully, the hyena's eye twitched. The Agent, was he about to tell him he missed a spot? He knew, if even a single spot were missed, Her Majesty would be disappointed in him, for sure. Knowing if he were to disappoint the Cryo Archon too many times, his life would be over, in an instant. Sensing no anger from the Agent, the weight upon his shoulders lessened as the seconds turned into minutes.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent said with due diligence. He then pointed towards a wall. "Dust another one."

Order echoing through his inhuman eardrums, the hyena headed towards the next area. Guided towards a set of stairs, the hyena ascended the staircase. Room with multiple dusty windows upon him, the chimera would not falter.

As the feather duster swished around the window, a sea of thoughts flooded the man's mind. The chimera with the snake hands, the individual said the original chimera was the gorgon. The snake handed chimera, just what had the original chimera meant? Only briefly hearing his family had been chimeras since far before his mother's time, the soldier had come to wonder: just how many years had chimera existed within Teyvat? The man did not know, but he supposed pondering such during work hours was a hindrance.

Pane glass dusted, the soldier dipped the sponge into the bucket. Absorbent rectangle and glass shaking hands, the soldier kept working. Grime and filth no more after about half an hour, the soldier sweat profusely. Window washing was a deep world of heavy labor. Agent instructing him to clean one more, the hyena proceeded to the next location with vigilance.

Large lobby room upon him, the chimera proceeded with the dusting. Soldiers around him mopping the floors, the scent of ammonia poisoned the area with a militaristic roar. Paying no mind to such, the hyena kept working. Dust defeated within an hour, the hyena dipped the sponge into the bucket. Filth leaving the building after hundreds of scrubs, a wave of fatigue held the early adult from behind. Other Fatui having boundless energy, the man sighed. Just what were the Snezhnaya Fatui made out of? The world of the permafrost north was an unsolvable mystery.

Black shadowy figure returning once more, inspections of every area in the hotel had made its rounds. Smirk of white gracing the shadow's face, every Fatui stared in silence. Inspection coming to an end, the black shadow's voice echoed throughout the hotel walls within seconds.

"No dust, no grime," the black shadowy figure said in a commanding tone. "Alright, dismissed!"

Dismissal being granted, Siorc highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. Eyes shut tight, the fast travel back to the permafrost north had begun. Hallways upon him within seconds, the hyena sauntered onward. Steel walled room eventually upon him. Uniform, glasses, hairpins and earrings removed, the soldier sat upon the icy cold floor.

As he sat upon the floor, a flood of thoughts crashed around within the hyena's partially human mind. The thoughts from earlier would not cease existing. The original chimera, what had the person meant by five generations too many? Words echoing throughout his eardrums, deeper thoughts ruminated within the early adult's head.

Chimeras, just where had they truly come from? The snake had mouthed the word scientist under the breath, what did the gorgon mean? As the questions buzzed inside him, the soldier's heart had begun to beat at a rapid, uneven rate. Heart beating harder as the questions continued to swim about, the early adult took a quick deep breath.

But the deep breath was futile. Heart beating harder and faster, thoughts continued to buzz swifter than the hyena could follow. The snake, the original chimera, the scientist; everything was blending together within him. Feeling a wave of dizziness, his body swayed forward to the cold hard ground in front of him. Ice cold floor and body meeting, the hyena shut his eyes. As the world of unconsciousness was about to invite him in, one final thought graced his fading brain.

The true origin of chimeras was beyond his reach.

***

"For the love of the Archons, why did I have to meet that kid yesterday?
Looks like that scientist really continued their experiments.
Obnoxious, obtuse, ridiculous,
So many centuries have passed since then,
So many generations have passed since then,
How could no one have stopped them?
Illegal, illicit, inconceivable!
Looks like immortality had been swept from them,
Dragons like them, time is
Expiry. When will my time come?

The world is a disgusting bubble,
How come immortality will not leave me?
Every day passing; every day is enough.

Cannot take any more of this world,
How could that scientist have continued their experiments?
I, Kígyó, was deemed a failure, was I not enough?
Moreover, that purple haired child, adult rather,
Even his body shows signs of that scientist's rampage.
Ruined families, ruined bloodlines.
After all these centuries, nothing has changed.

So much for me being the only one,
Chimeras are everywhere, aren't they?
It makes no sense, what did they mean to gain?
Even now, they are gone, dead,
No longer a member of this planet. Ah,
This makes me want to jump again.
Every day is passing; every day is enough.
So, another jump is upon me.
That windmill in the center of town, yes, that will do it. It is time for me to do the deed."

When the soldier had come to the next morning, an immediate chill had run down his partially human spine. He had not been in the soundproof room he normally resided in within the military barracks. Having regained consciousness in a room of unfamiliarity to him, the hyena had come to the quick and only conclusion: the Doctor, had yet again, moved him into the lab while he laid unmoving on the cold, hard ground. Harbinger being away on business in Sumeru for awhile after the punishment incident, the young soldier had hoped such day of his return would never come. Never having been placed in the same room within the Doctor's den of malpractice, uneasiness swallowed the early adult whole. Another day of experimentation was upon the adult chimera.

No matter how much time had passed between experiments, getting used to such torment was never something his brain would allow. Gulp resonating through the area, the lab rat sauntered into the laboratory in silence. There was no time, the day no longer belonged to him.

Upon entering the lab, the malevolent atmosphere made a meal out the chimera. Footsteps lowering in decibel as the seconds became minutes, the soldier drudged slowly. Seat inching towards him at a Ruin Guard's walking pace, the lab rat dragged his feet. Chair miles away from him, no progress had been made towards the forced upon destination.

Watching the little experiment drag his feet across the room, the mad malpracticing Doctor placed his gloved thumb between his teeth. Did the lab rat think dragging his feet would delay his fate? What a stupid little chimera. He would use force to end such nonsense once and for all. Sprinting towards the test subject's back, the mentally unsound Harbinger pushed the young adult the chair with a violent fervor.

"Quit dallying!" the Doctor cried, pushing the lab rat harder with every second passing. "You're on my time now!" As the push of force had reached its climax, he placed the little experiment in the chair forcefully. Pill in hand, the Harbinger handed the chimera the usual pill of toxicity.

Immediately upon being seated against his will, Siorc swallowed the pill on cue. As the pill of poison travelled throughout the little experiment's body, his eyes dilated in an instant. His damaged eyes were buzzing, his ears were ringing, his heart was racing; his head was pounding. The caffeinated poison, had it gotten stronger since the last time? The chimera did not know. His head continued to pound in an intense beat as the caffeinated toxins claimed dominance over him.

The mad malpracticing Doctor cracked his neck thrice as his test subject's eyes dilated from the dose of caffeinated toxins. Keeping the lab rat awake rather than knocking him out was far more fun. Grinning from underneath the mask, the subject of experiment had been a no brainer for the mentally unsound Sumeru Akademiya outcast. This time, for sure, the shark grooves in the chimera's brain would activate. Today, he would succeed in awakening the dormant predator instinct within his little experiment's mind. Rope tied around the lab rat, and surgical scalpel in hand, the Doctor was ready.

As the scalpel met the lab experiment's forehead with a baleful shriek, the Doctor sliced the skin of the head with a ruthless fury. As the brain became increasingly visible with every slice, the Harbinger poked the brown shark center with a heinous vigor. As the scalpel continued its wicked reign within the hyena's brain, the Doctor poked the shark grooves in a continuous manner. With every continued poke, a small smirk had grown on the mentally unsound Doctor's face. Single spark crackling, the Doctor's pokes continued. But such smirk turned into a grimace within a second. No more sparks flying within the lab rat's brain, the grimace soon turned into a snarl.

One, only a singular reaction. One lone spark.

"How boring!" the Doctor growled, squirming like a wet dog. Grinding his teeth, the malpracticing malicious Sumeru Akademiya outcast shook his fists across the toxic air. Another day of failure had been upon him. Removing the scalpel from his hand, the Doctor pointed his gloved index finger at a generic woman assistant employed under him. "You, there, sew him back up!" His words boomed in commando across the room. Orders being given, the mentally unsound Harbingers exited the area. Failure was a disgusting beast of burden.

"What a ridiculous man!" the generic woman shouted. Suture in hand, she walked to the hyena with a sour roar. "This shouldn't be too difficult. You got this, girl."

Confidence leaking through the walls of the lab, the generic assistant threaded the suture correctly with a singular attempt. Having sewn various scarves in her lifetime, sewing a person back together was the same. Suture threaded through the open area like wool on sewing needle, the signs of surgical activity had become no more within minutes. As the invasive surgical incision faded, the assistant removed the suture. Carrying the possibly unconscious chimera to the left room he had been brought into earlier, the assistant slid her hands together.

Stitches were as simple as knitting a new scarf.

***

Upon coming to a few hours later, a feeling of weakness overtook the chimera. Having been within the back rooms of the room he came in was never something the hyena could ever stomach. Desiring to leave right away, Siorc attempted to exit the room in silence, although such attempt was met with physical challenges. Dizziness taking him for a ride, walking normally was an impossibility to be had, for sure. But he knew he could not stay. If he were to stay within the den of malpractice a little longer, another day of experimentation could await him.

Staggering outside the laboratory, the snow and the chimera's heelless shoes had met. World spinning around him, the hyena's uneven walk continued. He knew he had to return to the military barracks for work tomorrow, the choice was not his if he wished to continue living. With every step taken, the world continued to spin.

As the world of fuzz had begun to eat at him, the chimera's body and the snow had met. Heart beating wildly inside his chest, the world of ice had encased him in a cocoon. Sheer cold about to take him away within an instant, blackness overtook the hyena. As the world of unconsciousness were about to take him away, a thought pierced through his fading mind.

If he were to die here, he would find a way to become a spirit.

Coming to a few minutes later, the soldier could feel his body moving forward. Outfit backside looking familiar, the hyena's eyes blinked weakly. His practice partner, just what was he doing out towards the Doctor's den of malpractice? Not having any energy remaining, the chimera closed his eyes. The warmth of another person's body was tiring.

Placed into the bed within the soundproof room after about half an hour of travelling, the hyena had been placed upward. Room spinning as the seconds raged onward, the blond hair exiting the room for a moment did not register to the young soldier.

Practice partner soon returning with a warm cup of tea, Siorc stared in silence. Currently human hand shaking, assistance was mandatory. Hot brown liquid hitting the throat within an instant, slight weakness had left the body almost immediately. Having slight energy remaining, the early adult knew a thank you was in order for the practice partner at hand. As he prepared to provide gratitude for his training partner, a gloved finger had been placed by his lips. Politeness was severed like a Cicin's wings in the open wilderness.

"You don't have to thank me," the practice partner whispered. "Get some rest, alright? Goodnight, Ingne."

Not being given an option to respond, the chimera shut his eyes. Practice partner exiting the room, a wave of tiredness immediately overtook him. But, as the world of sleep was about to take him, a sea of thoughts from the day before came crashing back at high tide. Opening his eyes again, the thoughts drowned him at bay.

The snake handed chimera, the original chimera, the scientist, the dragon, what did any of that mean? The origin of chimeras, just what was it? Head letting out a sharp pulse, weakness grabbed the hyena into a choke hold. Fuzziness beginning to eat at him, the young soldier supposed learning true origins of chimeras was not information he truly needed to know. Closing his eyes again, one final thought had poked his dizzying mind as the world of painful sleep awaited the early adult.

The truth was a locked cage he wished to never open.

Feat: Shenhe for two whole seconds.

10. The Mt. Aocang Journey. Feat: Party Of Four

"Just like the wind, I feel as though time is still
Unmoving.
Every day passing in this monotony, is it really? Every single day feels like
Yesterday. Never moving, never changing.
Unless I am mistaken, surely.
No day is truly passing.

Keeping myself obedient, however, is a must.
As long as these momentary days keep looping
Really, obedience is my only option,
Silence is key.
That is how it should be."

One month had passed since the chimera had to clean the Goth Grand Hotel with his subordinates. Mad malpracticing Doctor not making any more moves within the thirty days passing, the days marched onward with a mundane roar. Business affairs trudging about in Mondstadt, and intense training continuing as always, nothing had been out of the ordinary within the hyena's adult Fatui life. Although, the soldier had come to wonder something; something unusual.

The early adult had come to wonder: had he been caught in a time-loop? The chimera did not know, but he felt as though time had not been moving. Regardless of whether the world had been frozen in time, or not, the hyena would not falter. But, another unusual thought had graced the hyena's partially human brain.

He needed a break from the Fatui, a break from the monotony, a quick holiday from his duties. But, the hyena knew asking for a holiday off was a forbidden act. Knowing the water could still be hot for Her Majesty, the young soldier remained diligent, silent; obedient.

Luck and the Archons were on his side.

Upon waking up in the morning, the chimera was ready. Figuring another day of nothing but business affairs awaited him, the soldier would not falter. Placing his glasses over the heterochromatic eyes, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As his uniform melted onto his partially human person, the young soldier heaved a sigh. Another day of monotonous business affairs awaited him, surely. Everything having been the same for a momentary amount of days, the hyena was ready for the day at hand. Closing the final button into the correct hole, the chimera sauntered towards the hairpin and earring box with due diligence.

Clicking his hairpins and earrings into place, the hyena had ended the morning routine of dressing the body. Figuring the Agent could arrive at any moment, the soldier turned his attention to the door. Knowing the footsteps could arrive at any moment, the early adult stared off into silence.

But no footsteps would ever arrive. Never hearing the alarm bells, or groans in an echo, the chimera tilted his head. The Agent, was he not coming today? Alarm bells still never ringing as the minutes raged onward, the hyena put on his heelless shoes. Perhaps, just maybe, if he were look outside the door, someone would be coming for him, surely.

As he stepped outside, a sight to behold greeted the chimera. On the door had been a note. Figuring every other door had been covered with the same paper, the hyena did not peer at the other doors nearby. Note having been written in Snezhnaya writing as usual, the early adult stared in silence at the words written before him.

"You have three days off," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing had said. Seeing the words on the paper, the chimera titled his head. Was Her Majesty away on business again? Whatever business she had in other nations, he knew it could not be a good thing. Having to clean the hotel a month prior, he supposed avoiding Monstdadt, for the time being had to come into fruition.

Returning to the soundproof room, the chimera paced about. Three day holiday jumping him out of nowhere like a Treasure Hoarder in the open wilderness, the hyena's mind had been blank. Not wishing to search for Hase, at the moment, the early adult's currently human legs kept moving back and forth.

Eventually reaching a conclusion, an odd idea had turned on a lantern within his head. Another person being on his mind, the soldier had one idea, and one idea only. The panda chimera, had their overall stamina improved? Knowing his exercise regimen was a constant work in progress, the lantern inside him glowed a lighter orange.

The mountains in Liyue, he wished to take the panda chimera to the cliffsides to increase his stamina further. Resolute on his decision, the chimera opened up the proxy orb into map form. Highlighting the Teleport Waypoint to the Shoal, the hyena closed his eyes in an instant.

As the fast travel to the shoal had begun, multiple thoughts had graced the hyena's partially human mind. Would meeting up with panda chimera break him out of the endless loop of time? Monotony being his reckoning lately, everything had been the same for days on end. As the teleportation continued, the thought played on repeat.

Perhaps, just maybe, time would finally resume today.

***

"Quite sure there are quite a few mountain ranges within Liyue,
Ultimately, their Archon rules over rocks, if I recall correctly.
I'm certain there are at least a few,
Namely, in the northeast area, surely.
Geo is the nation's expertise,
Yes, surely, somewhere, in the Nation of Contracts,
Ultimate heights await.
No names come to mind to me, but

Perhaps the panda knows,
Even if he only knows a singular one
Any would be a great lead. However, Her Majesty, she could be watching.
Keeping my mouth shut is a must-be."

Teleport Waypoint placing him within the Yaoguang Shoal, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. Panda chimera nowhere in sight, the chimera's legs erupted into a sprint. Surely, soon, he would catch up to them if it were indeed one of their exercise days.

Yinlong eventually within his field of damaged vision, the chimera halted his sprint. Panda chimera running towards the edges of the sand slowly, a small smile had graced his sweating face. Keeping up with his exercise regimen had increased the panda's endurance, surely. Taking a turn into the other direction, the hyena mirrored their pace.

Panda chimera eventually being alerted to his presence, their exercise regimen had been paused, for a moment. Sweat bathing their clothes in stains, a slow smile creeped on their face. Knowing Yinlong was about to say something to him, Siorc made eye contact.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their words were as slow as they had always been. "Here to run with me?"

Hearing Yinlong's question, the chimera shook his head. Idea of scaling Liyue's mountains bursting into overdrive, the hyena put a serious look on his face. Would his look of vigor get through to the panda chimera? The soldier off duty hoped for such to be the case.

Seeing the look on his face, an oil bulb had went off in the panda chimera's head. Did Siorc have an idea he couldn't vocalize? Realizing such could have been the case, he rummaged through his left pocket. Small notebook and quill in hand, their pink eyes returned their focus the hyena's mismatched ones.

"So, what brings you here today instead?" Yinlong asked, slowness still present in their voice. "Draw it for me?" As they asked such, they placed the book into the chimera's hands. "Don't worry, your drawings are easy enough for me to understand." A slow smile had continued to grace their face.

Notebook and quill in his currently human hands, the chimera turned to an empty page within the small object of Dendro creation. Blank sheet upon him, the early adult drew simple pictures upon the tiny page. Still never having a moment to improve his drawing techniques, the picture was nothing more than basic shapes. Large triangle with two circular people on the top of it, the hyena returned the pad back to its owner.

Eyeing the page in front of him, another oil bulb had went off in the panda chimera's head. The stick figures standing on top of the triangle, was it conveying the idea of climbing a mountain? While the drawing had been as crude as the last one, it seemed simple enough in what their fellow chimera was trying to convey.

"Are you saying you want to go mountain climbing with me?" they asked, words speeding up a smidgeon. "I'd love to, but I can't. I have work teahouse today." A somber look had formed on their face.

Hearing Yinlong's rejection, the chimera's head sunk. Had his invitation come at the completely wrong time? Defeat sniping him from behind, the soldier off duty placed his possibly human rear upon the bed of sand below. What incredibly poor timing, on his part, if the panda chimera had work for the day.

Siorc looking dejected, a small frown had graced Yinlong's face. Had he really been hoping to go mountain climbing with him today? Not having work tomorrow, he knew he had to tell him it was not an impossibility. But, he knew, despite it being possible a day in advance, something else had to be taken care of first.

"Oh, hey, don't worry! While I can't today, I definitely can tomorrow!" Yinlong said, hands waving about. "Open your map and teleport to that Fatui doctor with me?"

Yinlong making his request known, the chimera placed his index finger on his chin. Why did the panda chimera want to see Loba for? But, he knew asking questions was not allowed to him as a Fatui soldier. Her Majesty could be listening from the winds of Mondstadt at any moment. Having no reason to refuse, the hyena opened the orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint within the unknown city of Natlan, the early adult collapsed the map back into orb form. Snezhnaya technology put back away, he linked his elbow around Yinlong's, for a moment.

Reaching he unknown city of Natlan through the Teleport Waypoint, the chimera unlinked his elbow. Yinlong behind him, the hyena lead the way. Heat creeping up from behind, sweat had poured down the soldier off duty's back. The terrifying nation of fire was as sweltering as always. Stepping forward, the hyena guided the panda towards the medical clinic. Door upon the two of them, the early adult's hand and the knob were intertwined. Door creaking open, the two stepped inward. Medical ward burning into his damaged eyes, the soldier off duty focused his attention on the medical cabinets.

Closing the door behind him, the sight of Loba working on a human Fatui patient had appeared within his damaged line of sight. Jackal chimera looking busy, the two waited. Hydro delusion forcing torrents of water on the client within the medical ward made their roar known. Dark waters surrounding the patient, the white walls glowed a dark aura.

Witnessing the the sinister waters hit a Fatui's open wounds on private display, the hyena stared in silence. Everyone had been busy within the world of Teyvat today. Patient leaving after half an hour, Loba walking over to the two after a few minutes, the hyena made eye contact.

Seeing Siorc and Yinlong within the medical ward, Loba had been ready for the call to action. Had an emergency been at hand? If such had indeed been the case, there was absolutely no time to waste. Stupid human Fatui gone from her presence, attending to to matters was now within her reach.

"Hello, there, honey," Loba said to Yinlong in a soft voice. "Is there an emergency?" Her words were soft and serious. If an emergency had been at hand, it needed to be attended to immediately.

Hearing Loba's response, Yinlong waved her hands about in a frantic manner. Being a doctor, the medical world always came first. Maybe telling her the reason for her visit would help shine light to the situation at hand? She supposed, if Loba said no, nothing could be done. Fatui had busy lives ahead of them.

"Not at all, Miss Loba!" Yinlong said, words faster than usual. "Siorc wants to go mountain climbing, and I was wondering if you'd like to accompany us." Her voice was softer, and more delicate in tone. "Having a doctor on standby just in case would be very helpful!"

Request reaching her, Loba stepped out into the backroom, for a moment. Red circle over an unknown date within the confines of her calendar, she returned the main room within the medical ward. Having a day off tomorrow, she supposed a change of scenery could help for her health. Being trapped inside for medical examinations nearly three-hundred-sixty-five days a year, stepping away on an allocated day off could come into fruition, for certain.

"Unless my schedule changes last minute, I'll come with you two," Loba replied. Thinking for a moment, an idea had come to her mind. Maybe her sister would like to come along, as well? Perhaps proposing the idea would not hurt. "I'll ask my sister to come along as well."

Second invitation echoing throughout the medical ward, Yinlong gave a small smile. Had Loba's sister been a doctor, as well? If her sister had medical training, as well, two medics were better than one. While the mystery sister had been a stranger to her, she cared not, at the moment in time.

"Thank you, Miss Loba!" Yinlong exclaimed happily. "Meet you here tomorrow?"

Yinlong not raising any questions about the invitation, a small smile had graced Loba's face. What a laidback person Yinlong was. Most people would say no to inviting others to come along with them on a trip. Hoping the panda would not change her mind, she prepared her next words carefully.

"I will see you two tomorrow if everything goes as planned," Loba replied, uncertainty provided. "Take care." Waving goodbye, she exited to the backroom. Double checking her schedule had to be in order.

Goodbyes being given, Yinlong turned to Siorc. Looking into his eyes, he readied his next words as fast as his throat was capable of. "Take me back to the beach?" the panda chimera asked, words faster than before. Linking their elbow around his, he readied for the return to come at the blink of an eye.

Opening the orb into map form, the chimera highlighted the Liyue section of the map. Clicking the teleport button on the Yaoguang Shoal waypoint, the hyena dissipated the map into orb form. Fast travel confirmed, the soldier off duty closed his eyes for the third time.

Beaches of Liyue being reached within a split second, the early adult returned his attention to the panda chimera. Hearing Yinlong speak faster than normal, the hyena knew work was about to be upon him, for sure. If time were about to run out, returning to the military barracks for the evening had to become of him now.

But, such exit was halted. Yinlong looking as though he was pondering something, the hyena waited. Knowing thought process worked differently in everyone's brains, patience was key. Panda chimera making eye contact again within a few minutes, Siorc listened in silence.

"Now that I think about it, there's a trail in Jueyun Karst that leads to Mt. Aocang," Yinlong stated. "We should head there tomorrow!" But, as he said such, he shuffled through his pockets. Looking at a strange object, a regretful look had been on their face. "Aw, man! I have to head to work now! Sorry, Siorc, I have to go!" Bowing his head, the panda started walking towards the beach exit. "See you tomorrow?"

Yinlong getting ready to head to the teahouse for the evening, the chimera stepped forward. Panda chimera accepting his request and having answers, a quick goodbye was in order for him.

"Yes, sir," Siorc replied, voice barely audible. "I will see you tomorrow."

Waving goodbye to one another, the hyena removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy map for the fourth time of the day. Panda chimera getting farther away with every second passing, the hyena highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks with due diligence.

Steel walled room upon him, the chimera sat down on the ice cold floor. Opening his map once more, he looked for the location Yinlong had mentioned. Eventually coming across the area in question, the hyena nodded to himself. Pinching the map in for closer detail, the early adult studied the location to the best of his ability.

Dissipating the map back into orb form, the soldier off duty stood up from the icy ground. Opening his uniform drawers, the early adult moved the black shirts away. White silk shirt glaring at him, a forbidden desire had thrown a pebble around inside him. The silk shirt, he wished to wear it tomorrow. Would he even be allowed to wear anything that was not his uniform? He supposed hiding it behind his brown uniform jacket could suffice. Closing his uniform drawer, the haphazard decision been made.

Glasses, hairpins and earrings removed, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Wave of tiredness taking him as soon as his head hit the pillow, the chimera closed his eyes. As the world of sleep was about to take him for the night, tomorrow's planned awaited him within the land of subconscious.

A day of mountain climbing was upon him tomorrow.

***

"Maybe this trip will be a good thing,
Taking time away from the medical ward is healthy.

Always staying cooped up inside,
One day off, one day away,
Couldn't hurt anything.
Asking my parents to cover my bases, if anything happens, I can breathe.
Never do I have time to myself, a Fatui medic's life never has a moment of reprieve.
Guess a day trip is upon me. I can finally wear something nice, free. Simple, easy."

Waking up the next morning, the chimera was ready. Shifting to the bottom of the uniform drawers, the soldier off duty removed the silk shirt from the brown wood casing. Allowed to wear non-uniform material or not, the white shirt melted upon his partially human person. Brown jacket soon covering the white, the hyena clicked the matching moon hairpins and earrings into place.

Everything being on, the soldier off duty highlighted the waypoint to the Shoal. Yinlong waiting for him, the two teleported to Natlan within seconds. Reaching the medial ward within a few minutes, the two chimeras entered the area.

Entering the medical ward was a sight to behold. Sitting on the edge of the medical beds had been Loba and Aega in casual clothing. Aega in her usually slightly revealing outfit, the soldier off duty turned his attention to Loba. Dark red short sleeved outfit with a black skirt to match, the hyena smiled a smidgeon. She was beautiful, but such words would not leave his lips.

Yinlong in a different outfit as well, the hyena turned to look at the panda. The outfit Yinlong had been wearing a red women's Liyue fashion ensemble. Men's pants underneath, the soldier off duty shrugged his shoulders. Everyone had been in different outfits for the day. It was almost as if, in worlds even beyond Teyvat, people in the world wore mostly identical clothes, and different clothing were locked behind one-off special occasions.

Hearing the two chimeras enter the medical ward, Aega and Loba stood up from the beds. Walking up to the two of them, the party of two had quickly become a party of four. New person within the medical ward, Aega extended her hand to the silver haired panda eared individual.

"Your name is Yinlong, right?" Aega asked. Silver haired person extending their hand, the handshake had been completed. "Nice to meet you." Removing her hand from theirs, she placed her hands by her hips. "So, where are we headed?"

Whereabouts inquired about, Yinlong pointed to Siorc's pocket. Knowing that was his cue, the hyena opened the proxy map. Pointing at the Jueyun Karst area on the map, he left the map open for a bit. Figuring the panda chimera would explain further, the soldier off duty closed the map back into orb form. Pocketing the orb for a moment, he turned to Yinlong.

"We're taking the trail from Jueyun Karst to Mt. Aocang!" Yinlong replied in a cheerful manner. "Are you two ready?"

Turning to Siorc, Loba allowed a sigh to escape the throat. Why was Siorc wearing his uniform today? Wasn't it summer in the rest of the world, at the moment? If such were the case, wearing a winter jacket would cause him to overheat. That could not happen, for any reason.

"Not yet," Loba said to Yinlong. She then turned to Siorc. "Take your uniform off, honey."

Suggestion to take off his uniform playing on repeat in his inhuman eardrums, the hyena shook like an earthquake. He had to take off his uniform? Was such an act even allowed of him? He knew, if Her Majesty were to spot him with uniform off, his life would be over, for sure. Shaking his head, the soldier off duty continued to shake.

Predictable stubbornness from Siorc making its rounds, Aega let out a nearly inaudible sigh. While she knew butting in would have been considered rude, saying something about the Fatui's clear defiance could not be kept silent. Was he trying to be difficult with Loba? Absolutely not. Entering the battlefield, she looked into the young man's eyes.

"Siorc, please don't be difficult," Aega chimed in. "It's too hot in most of Teyvat right now to wear your uniform."

Natlan sister pair both telling him to take off his uniform, the hyena took a quick deep breath. He supposed he had no choice in the matter. Undoing the buttons from the uniform the chimera removed the proxy map from the jacket pocket. Moving the orb into his pants pocket, he folded the winter clothing as neatly as his human hands would allow. Silk shirt on private display, six eyes had darted in his direction.

"A silk blouse?!" the three voices at once asked in astonishment.

Bewilderment from the three as they looked at his outfit, the hyena had instantly turned crimson. Why did all of them, Yinlong included, have to call attention to his outfit? How incredibly embarrassing. Hugging his arms around the white outfit, the shirt had been hidden within seconds.

Watching as Siorc covered the silk shirt, Loba turned to Aega for a moment. Had her and Aega's inquiry embarrassed him? Never really going anywhere without his uniform, she surmised such to be the case. Although, another thought had come into the corners of her mind. Wasn't silk a material that would get ruined if wet? She had to bring up such fact to him before they were to leave for their journey.

"Are you sure you want to wear that?" Loba asked. Her tone had a wave of slight concern in it. "Silk cannot get wet."

Not having any other shirts on him, the hyena simply nodded. Asking for another shirt would count as a desire, for sure. Acting upon any more desires he had would make his life reach his end if Her Majesty were to find out about it.

Seeing him nod, Loba turned to her sister. Inquiring her to grab a bag from her room, the twin had left the area for a moment. Being told to place his uniform within the bag, the brown jacket had been locked away in supply prison. Bottle of sunburn protection applied to the party of four, Loba turned to Siorc one final time. Moving her Cryo vision to the side of her skirt, one more stance had echoed through the medical ward walls.

"Alright, honey," Loba replied. "Then I'll try to keep the air around us cool." She then turned to Yinlong. "Yinlong, are you ready?"

Name being called out, Yinlong put on a small smile. Hooking their elbows around Loba and Siorc, they waited for Aega to join hands, as well. Everyone within close proximity with Siorc, the time to leave the area to teleport to Karst was finally upon the group of four.

"Yeah, I'm ready to go," Yinlong replied to Loba. They then pointed to Siorc's pants pocket. "Highlight the Jueyun Karst waypoint?"

Map in hand, the soldier off duty highlighted the waypoint to the Karst area within a moment. Teleportation confirmed, the orb had been returned to the pants pocket. Four member party closing their eyes, the fast travel had begun within a split second.

Jueyun Karst appearing within his field of vision, the hyena examined the area. Towering before his eyes had been a large grey cliffside that extended from every side of the area. Cliffside being almost endless, the hyena focused his attention to the area in front of him. Connecting the area to the other side had been a wooden bridge. Figuring the only way for the group to continue was to traverse the bridge, the early adult turned to Yinlong.

Arms no longer linked together, the chimera pointing at the bridge. While he knew pointing was rude, the energy to communicate with signs or gestures had been absent, for the moment in time. Placing his human finger back down, he waited for the panda chimera's answer in silence.

Noticing Siorc pointing towards the bridge, an epiphany had entered Yinlong's slow brain. Was he asking if the bridge was the right path to take? Directions to Mt. Aocang being mandatory, the panda pumped his fists together. He would relay the directions to the mountain to the best of his ability.

"Are you asking if we need to cross the bridge?" Yinlong asked, words as slow as usual. "Yes, that's the right way to go!" As he said such, he stepped in front of the group. "I'll lead the way!"

Yinlong taking charge, the three followed from behind them. Small wooden resting spot between the two bridges, the party of four circled around the small resting point. Second bridge conquered, Yinlong turned towards the east direction.

Dirt road with a couple of lantern posts apart from each other, the group of four kept walking. Another long wooden bridge about to be upon them, an odd sight had presented itself off within the distance. Off towards the side near a waterfall had been odd monuments with snowflake symbols littered throughout. Would turning such devices on be required to proceed? While the possibility had been miniscule, one percent had not been zero. Knowing of such being a slight possibility, the early adult tapped on Loba's shoulder.

Feeling the slight tap on her shoulder, Loba turned her attention to the statues. Was Siorc asking her to light up the Cryo monuments? Being unfamiliar with the world outside of Natlan and Snezhnaya, lighting up monuments or solving outdoor puzzles was not her line of expertise.

"I'll see what I can do," Loba replied. "Haven't seen these types of monuments in quite a long time."

Weapon placed in the supply bag just in case, Loba removed a silver orb from Aega's sack. Grey orb floating in mid-air, a shot of ice had been fired at the monument. Grey monument soon flowing through the obstacle, she eyed the two monuments farther away. Stepping closer towards the monuments, more shards of ice had been fired at the remaining monuments. Three grey obstacles being lit, a chest had appeared out of thin air. Had lighting up such monuments only been there to solve a puzzle? Useless rocks lit up for no reason, Loba returned the weapon into the supply bag.

Monuments not being a roadblock, the hyena blinked in bewilderment. Were the monuments for adventurers with Cryo vision bearers to unlock a secret chest? If it were not an obstacle, crossing the next bridge had been the only option. Yinlong leading the way again, the party of four continued walking.

Seeing a frog statue as the end of the bridge was upon them, Siorc blinked of bewilderment. Seeing multiple frog statues throughout the area's scenery, the chimera had come to wonder: were frogs a significant animal within the Jueyun Karst? Never having learned of such a fact within his father's notes, the statues were a mystery to behold.

Small passageway with a bell hanging from it, the chimera tilted his head. Were the passageways in Liyue monuments of sorts? The hyena did not know, but he supposed if he had time in the future, researching more about the Nation of Contracts could come into fruition.

Second near identical passageway without a bell leading towards another rest area, Yinlong turned towards the stone road to the west. Small stream with a string of talismans connecting from a tree nearby, the panda chimera had stopped moving, for a moment.

"This is Qingyun Peak," Yinlong explained slowly. "Mt. Aocang is a little north of here. Ready to keep going?"

Not having climbed a single mountain yet, the hyena nodded. The trip would all be in vain if a mountain had not been scaled today. Loba and Aega nodding as well, the panda chimera stepped forward. Long stone path conquered, an area with a purple umbrella had been reached.

Seeing more talismans tied together on a red string, the soldier off duty had an immediate unanswerable question bubble inside him. Had his father ever come across such talismans when he was alive? If he were amongst the living, he would love such a sight.

Noticing the mountainsides, Aega held her currently human hand out. Taking note of Yinlong saying the area was a peak, climbing up a small cliffside or two before heading up the big mountain was mandatory with they were to keep going.

"Grab my hand," Aega said to Loba. "We're going to have to climb, for a bit."

Twins hands joined together, the four scaled the cliffside. Small mountain scaled, another stone pathway had been reached. More frog statues beside a tall monument, the chimeras kept walking. Coming across a path with blue talismans and wooden looking seals with bells on the rocks, curiosity had continued to eat away at the hyena. Was the peak area a special place within Liyue history? He supposed he could find out at another point in time.

Stone walkway changing, the hyena stepped in front of Yinlong for a moment. Glowing symbol within his heterochromatic field of damaged vision, the chimera's legs broke into a sprint. Towards the end of the path had been a large barrier. Barrier having the same symbol as the blue sign posts and wooden boards upon the rocks, the soldier off duty let out a somber sigh. If his father were still around, he would have researched such phenomenon by now. Knowing answers wouldn't come to him simply by staring, the chimera returned to the party of four.

Heading towards the southwest area, another small cliffside had been upon the group. Being told they would have to descend the rocks to get to the other side, the three followed the panda chimera's lead. Stone forest being cut through, every area had been a steep one. Dark grey mountains now being lighter in shade towards the mountainside, the four kept scaling the multitude of large cliffs.

Large tree with orange leaves towards a halfway point, Yinlong broke into a long pant. Scaling large cliffsides was not his forte. But, after coming this far, stopping now had to have been out of the question. Feeling sweat mounting as high as the cliffsides themselves, the panda chimera motioned the lips to speak.

"We're almost there..." Yinlong said, voice tired. "Mt. Aocang Is just a little north of here." Sweat continuing to drop, eyes had been on him. "Sorry. Climbing isn't really my forte."

Removing a towel from the supply bag, Aega handed the cloth to the panda chimera. If climbing had not been their strong suit, then why had they wanted to go on such a long journey? Already being close by according to them, asking had not become of her. Sweat eventually dissipated in its entirety, the four continued climbing.

Small circular stone formation with a bird statue the hyena heaved a sigh. Liyue, the nation governed by Geo had many beautiful monuments, indeed. If he had thought to bring a notebook with him, writing down his experiences could have become of him. But, such was a missed opportunity.

Scaling downward towards the other side, a small lake had been reached. But the lake had no interest within the early adult's mind. Seeing a staircase as the four proceeded forward, the soldier off duty stepped in front of the panda chimera, for a moment. Curiosity biting the cartilage of his ear, the hyena ascended the small staircase.

Wooden talisman plastered on another rock, the soldier off duty tilted his head. Was the area he was about to peek at a sacred area? He supposed one quick look could send his curiosity back to the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

Stepping forward was a sight to behold, for sure. Wedged in the rocks had been an entrance to a domain with a red aura. The domain, what purpose did it serve? Doors looking locked, traversing inside had been an impossibility to be had, for sure, if he were to do so in his own free time.

Nothing of note standing out to him, the hyena turned his heelless shoes in the opposite direction. As he was about to exit the area, however, the sound of the domain doors opening could be heard a small distance away. Hearing the sound of a weapon pointing at him, the chimera turned around in an instant.

Stepping out of the domain had been a rather tall woman. The woman had long silver hair tied back into a braid, and pale blue eyes looking down upon him with a freezing glare. White partial shirt with gold silk covering a long black outfit and stockings, the chimera stopped his hasty examination.

Light blue polearm pointed his way, the soldier off duty raised his hands in the air. Had he been trespassing on private property? If the woman had been here to attack him for his crimes, he supposed he deserved it. Closing his eyes for a moment, an attack was imminent.

But, no attack ever came. Yinlong, Aega, and Loba stepping in front of him, his body had been protected within seconds. Was protecting him from such person necessary? Going where a person was not wanted had to have been a crime. Three member protection party looking ready to fight if necessary, the soldier off duty took a deep breath.

"Hey, leave him alone!" Yinlong shouted, words at a normal speed. "He isn't doing anything wrong."

"My polearm does not distinguish from friend or foe," the woman said in booming commando. "I suggest you all step aside before things turn ugly."

Polearm still being pointed, Yinlong grabbed Siorc's wrist gently. If the person wished for a fight, they were not getting one. Staircase ascended and stone pathways scaled, the panda chimera let out another long pant. He could feel his energy dissipating as the seconds marched onward. Would a break now be out of place? They supposed asking could not hurt.

"Could we take a small break, please?" Yinlong asked. "I see a small camp over there." Pointing towards a small stove, the group headed towards the area. Promptly seated, they then turned to Aega. "Have any ingredients in your bag?" Stomach rumbling through the mountainside, the panda's face turned a shade of pink.

"I have ingredients for Monstadt Hash Browns thar our mom taught us how to make," Aega said, energy not depleted in the slightest. "Will that do?"

Yinlong nodding, Aega removed the ingredients from her bag. Jam, potatoes and pinecones removed from the bag, the ingredients had been placed into the pot. Everything settled, a meter had appeared underneath it. Hitting an orange zone, a ding pinged throughout the outside world. Repeating the process four times, the four hash browns had come out perfectly. Placing the food upon small napkins, the snacks had been distributed.

Snacks devoured, the four kept walking. Figuring enough mountainsides had been scaled for the day, the party of four headed south. But such walk about was halted within seconds. Large green orb with a dark green shell and no eyes floating about, Loba stepped forward. Aega having an Anemo vision, she would not falter. Removing the silver colored orb from the supply bag, the Fatui medic off duty was ready for battle.

Green orb ascending to the sky, Loba aimed her ice projectiles towards the sky. Ice and Anemo cocoon meeting the ground, the young woman held her hand out. Long icicle shard piercing the creature twelve times, the creature had faded into the ether. Creature disappearing, sweat had formed on her brow. Her fighting style had to have looked sloppy to everyone, for sure.

Hearing the sound of treasure chests unlocking in the distance, the party of four ignored such phenomenon. Small hillside with two orange trees reached within a few minutes, the jackal chimera had pulled out a mysterious device the hyena had never known the name of. Object with gold plating on the outside, and star in the center with numbers surrounding it. The device in her hand, just what was it for? Loba studying the mysterious object for minutes on end, the chimera remained silent. Whatever the object was, he knew asking questions was not about it was not allowed.

"We should probably head back now before it gets too dark," Loba said softly. Walking over towards Aega, the brown jacket had placed in her hands. "Here's your uniform, honey."

Uniform handed back to him, the soldier off duty placed the brown jacket upon his partially human person. Silk shirt finally covered, he turned to Loba. A thank you was to be in order for the two jackal chimeras.

"Thank you for accompanying us, ma'ams," Siorc said, words barely audible. Knowing Her Majesty could still be listening anywhere in Teyvat while away on business, the chimera mouthed the words take care to the two jackals. Would his mouthed silence get through? The hyena hoped such to be the case.

Noticing Siorc had been mouthing something, a slight smile had appeared on Loba's face. Had Siorc been attempting to say take care? Not being completely familiar with how to read lips, teaching herself in the future had to come into fruition when another moment of reprieve was upon her.

"I'm not completely sure what you're trying to say to me," Loba admitted, questioning tone in voice. "But you take care as well, honey." She then turned to Yinlong. "You take care as well, Yinlong. It was nice travelling with you." Waving goodbye, she turned to her sister. A long study session once she returned home had to come of her immediately.

"Liyue has very pleasant scenery," Aega said. "If you ever want to do this again, I wouldn't mind coming along, if you'll have me." Removing the one way Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from the supply bag, she waved to the two chimeras. "Goodnight, you two, take care of yourselves."

Twin jackal chimeras gone within an instant, Yinlong's pink eyes met the hyena's own. Seeing the slightest bit of sparkles in his eyes, he supposed he knew what suggestion was about to come next. Knowing the panda chimera was about to bring up a meal, the soldier off duty kept his attention on the panda chimera.

Panda chimera sitting down by the tree, their face looked somber, for a brief moment. Had something heavy been on his mind? If such were the case, hearing him out for a moment was the right thing to do. Friends looked out for one another and lent an ear when something was on their mind, didn't they? Ready to listen, the chimera kept giving eye contact.

"Say, tomorrow, could we go somewhere alone?" Yinlong asked, words back to being slow. "Just the two of us? I don't have to be at the teahouse until the evening."

Hearing Yinlong's suggestion, the hyena blinked in bewilderment. Did Yinlong still want his boy time alone together with him? Knowing that at any moment, Her Majesty could move towards Liyue, a definite answer could not leave his lips.

"I will see if I can make it tomorrow, sir," Siorc responded robotically. There was no emotion to be had in his voice.

Small possibility being given, a tired smile creeped on Yinlong's face. "If you can make it, meet me by Mt. Hu Lao if you can," Yinlong replied. Their words were fluttering. Feeling his cheeks glow red, they stood up within seconds. Did his response sound as though it was more than just a normal plan? What a shameful thought. Cheeks glowing redder the panda stepped backward. "Ah, man! I should probably head home now to practice some opera performances!" Sprinting down the hillside, they let out a frantic wave. "It was nice seeing you again, but I really have to go!" Sprinting as fast as his legs would allow, he quickly left the area.

Yinlong sprinting away frantically, the hyena tiled his head. Had the panda chimera been blushing? Whatever the panda had planned for him tomorrow, he supposed he would find out. Tilting his head towards the sky, the stars had greeted his bespectacled vision.

Nightfall being within its earliest stages, the chimera knew it was time to return to the permafrost north for the evening. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, a wave of tiredness had begun to sneak up from behind him as the fast travel had ended within seconds.

Steel wall room soon upon him, the hyena switched into a plain black shirt. Silk shirt hidden beneath the sea of black, the hyena shut the drawers with a quiet slam. Returning the hairpins and earrings within the jewelry box, and everything extra removed, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Exploring a long winding path and scaling mountains was a tiring exercise. World of sleep almost taking him as soon as his head hit the pillow, one final question escaped his fading brain.

What did Yinlong have in store for him tomorrow?

***

"Maybe it is just my imagination, but
Time still feels as though it is not moving.

How can time still be stuck?
Ultimately, I can still feel it, the days are looping.
Life of monotony resuming tomorrow,
All the seconds are blending together.
Of course, I need to remain diligent regardless, that is key."

Walking up for the final day of his holiday, Siorc was ready. Not wishing to wear the silk shirt two days in a row, the pure black undershirt and uniform shirt had been worn instead. Uniform buttons placed into the correct holes, and hairpins and earrings on, the hyena opened the orb into map form.

Seeing a star shaped pin had been added on his map, the soldier off duty tilted his head. When had the panda chimera had time to add such a marker to his hacked map? Figuring he had added it secretly somehow, the hyena highlighted the Waypoint closet to the pin. Fast travel confirmed, the chimera closed his eyes.

Small sealed area reached within a blink of a mismatched eye, the hyena placed the map into orb form upon the hook of his pants. Orb showing the map in partial form upon his waist, the soldier off duty walked towards the location the pin had been pointing to.

Small rivers crossed, the location of the pin had gotten closer with every minute passing. Pin upon the orb map leading him to a small wooden pathway near a red umbrella, the young soldier tilted his head. Panda chimera sitting by the table near the umbrella with a basket of food, a sea of questions flooded his brain.

Yinlong, had he wanted to spend time alone with him to have a picnic? Only ever really having rations, he supposed turning down such a nice meal would be rude of him. Sitting down on the tableside adjacent to the panda, he waited for the panda to speak.

Seeing Siorc sit on the other side of the table, a slow smile formed on Yinlong's face. Had the pin he secretly put on his map the other day while they were in Loba's medical ward pull through? Secrets were a convenient tool, indeed. Opening the lid of the food basket, the panda set the table.

"Oh, hey, Siorc, you came!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their panda tail had been swishing from behind them. "Let's eat! I'm starved!"

Staring at the salad in front of him, the soldier off duty placed the dining utensils in his hand. Green leaved dish surrounded by a copious amount of chili, the hyena chewed slowly. Feeling a large amount of mint hit his throat, the soldier tilted his head. Despite chili, mint and bitter salad leaves never seeming like they could work together, the dish was delectable, nonetheless. Finishing the mint salad after awhile, the chimera waited for Yinlong to finish in silence.

Yinlong finishing his meal after half an hour, the soldier off duty stood up. Panda chimera standing up as well, a serious look had been on his lazed face. Did he have somewhere else he wanted to go? Daylight hours still being upon him, returning to the permafrost north for the moment could wait.

Panda chimera guiding him towards an odd blue tree, the two sat down for awhile. Yinlong sprawling himself out by the large tree, the soldier off duty closed his eyes for a moment. While nature and he had been on a break, the large blue tree was a fascination to behold, regardless.

Yinlong eventually sitting up, a Kamera had been in his right hand. Not having seen a Kamera since his stolen childhood, slight nostalgia had nibbled on the chimera's ear. Was the panda chimera about to take some photos? If he wanted to take them alone, he knew stepping out of the way had to come of him now. But such thoughts were shot upon the battlefield.

"I want to take a picture of this moment," Yinlong said, words lulled. "Is that okay with you?"

Permission being asked, the hyena nodded. Was asking permission necessary for taking pictures with friends? The rules of friendship were a complicated rulebook of intricacies. Panda posing the camera, the chimera formed his fingers into a peace sign for a split second.

Flash of the Kamera as blinding at teleporting, the young soldier blinked. Photo coming out instantly, wanderlust had intoxicated the hyena within an instant. Technology was an odd, and mysterious world. Panda chimera quickly sprawling himself out after the picture had been completed, hours of relaxing went on with a roar.

Evening almost nearing, the panda chimera rose to his feet. Teahouse being far away from the current location at hand, heading towards the area had to start far earlier than anticipation could allow. But, perhaps, just maybe, if Siorc came with him, the travel to work would go by quicker? Yinlong hoped such would be the case.

"Aw, man, I have to start heading to work now," Yinlong said, words speeding up a smidgeon. "Walk to the teahouse with me? It's pretty far from here."

Seeing no reason to refuse, the chimera walked alongside the panda. Teahouse reached after an hour of walking, the panda ascended the small staircase. Usual tall brunette patron missing, but opera singer present, the hyena prepared his return to Snezhnaya. But, such exit was halted by Yinlong motioning him to come forward.

"Hold on, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. "Let me treat you to tea before you go back to Snezhnaya!"

Not being proposed as a question, the chimera sat down in his usual seat. Tall brunette man being absent, everything had been far quieter. Brunette usually speaking about the history of Liyue, the lack of such had been an oddity. Had the brunette man come around in the later evening? The hyena supposed such could have been the case. No history to be had, the soldier off duty awaited for the usual tea in silence.

Tea in front of him eventually, the chimera took a sip of the tea. Knowing Yinlong would reject his payment if he were to give him one, the soldier off duty sipped in silence. Multiple generic patrons dropping by, no words had the opportunity to be said between the two. Finishing the tea after awhile, the chimera rose from the chair. Everything becoming too busy, it was time to return to the permafrost north. Overstaying his welcome would hinder other customers, for sure.

"Thank you for the tea, sir, it was wonderful," Siorc said, words slightly more audible. Yinlong hard at work, getting his momentary attention was impossible. "I must take my leave now." His voice lost emotion as the bustle about continued. Soon, his work would return, as well. "It was very nice spending the past couple of days with you."

Hearing Siorc's voice through their various customers, Yinlong turned their head. He was leaving already? Teahouse being busy at the moment, he knew the usual goodbye could not be uttered from him. Would a quick mention of boy time alone again be suffiecent? He figured saying part of his usual goodbye could still slip out quick enough before needing to take another order.

"It was nice spending time with you, too," they said, words faster than ever before. Work rush was an absolute beast. "If you have time again in the future, let's have more boy time alone again!" Customers flocking in, he waved to the hyena swiftly.

Waving back to the panda, emotion had left the building within seconds. It was time to return to Snezhnaya. Back to his duties of monotony, back to business affairs of nothing. As he highlighted the Teleport Waypoint to the military barracks, odd thoughts had flooded inside him.

Had a day truly passed? Feeling as though time had still been looping, the young soldier kept walking. Steel walled room eventually upon him, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed within an instant. Everything removed, the thought continued to poke the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

As he laid in the uncomfortable bed, the thought would not cease, even for a moment. Had the world of time still only been a few days? The chimera did not know, but every day passing, differences or not, had felt the same. Months blending together into days, the hourglasses' sand had remained static. Closing his eyes as the world of sleep were about to take him, the thought played on repeat for minutes on end.

Had only a momentary amount of days been passing?

His sense of time was dying in the snow outside.

This is three part saga featuring most of the Inazuma cast at the time of when I wrote it, but not everyone.

11. Inazuma Odd Jobs 1: Delusions Gifted

"I'm certain now, that time isn't moving
Nothing is going
All the days are the same,
Zigzagging backwards, remaining stationary
Unless I am mistaken, but nothing is moving.
Monotony is repeating.
All and all, only days are passing

Only days, surely.
Days aren't moving.
Days are stationary.

Just another day of business affairs
On this day that is freezing
But, I need to keep working, diligence is my reckoning.
Soon, perhaps, time will move again, surely."

One month had passed since the chimera went on a journey to Mt. Aocang within a party of four. Nothing of major note happened within the young soldier's Diplomatic Fatui life. Deliveries throughout Dragonspine coming back with a vengeance for the duration of the thirty days, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

During his various deliveries throughout the lesser permafrost north, it had come to the hyena's attention immediately. The penguin chimera had stopped bothering him entirely. Penguin chimera turning the other way upon spotting him, deliveries had gone on without a problem for the hyena. No hindrances within sight, the young soldier remained diligent.

The sound of morning alarm bells struck with an uproarious echo. As the alarm bells shrieked with a clamor, the groans of hundreds of Fatui soldiers made their roar known throughout the military barracks. The alarm bells never failed in punctuality, as usual. Despite such groans about, every soldier remained loyal.

The various amount of groans had been more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never being alerted to any alarm bells, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Knowing another day of nothing awaited him, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As his uniform melted onto his partially human person, the chimera let out a sigh. Did another day of deliveries in Dragonspine await him today? Knowing such could have been a possibility, the hyena was ready for the monotonous day at hand. Clicking his hairpins and earrings into place, the hyena waited for the day of nothing to arrive.

An astronomically incorrect assumption on his part.

Placing his heelless shoes on his currently human feet, the sound of odd footsteps increased in volume with a militaristic roar. Hearing the sound of sandals barrel through the military barracks, the early adult tilted his head. The sandals stomping about, was someone else relaying his orders to him today? The chimera did not know, but he supposed he was about to find out. Odd footsteps volume eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention to the door. Whoever was coming today to relay his orders, he knew he had to remain diligent.

Another astronomically incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part. Standing at the door had been the Agent, but an oddity had been present on private display. Agent's outfit being completely different from the usual one, the soldier studied the oddities for a brief moment. Covering the tall man's head had been a dark purple helmet with an Electro symbol in the center. Mouth being visible, the chimera walked three steps back. Never having seen the Agent's facial expressions before, the flat lips burned into his eyes within seconds. Light violet shirt covered by a dark purple shield plate with an Electro symbol on the center, and dark violet pants tucked into sandals, Siorc walked another two steps back.

Seeing arm guards instead of the Agent's usual gloves, and a sword sheathed on his left side, sweat poured down the hyena's back. The Agent, just what was he wearing? What could Her Majesty possibly have been planning for the workday at hand? The soldier did not know, but he knew he could not ask any questions. Questions were not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier. Agent looking ready to speak, the hyena regained focus within seconds.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. His visible lips had a serious look to them. "We are going to Kujou Encampment to give a certain gift to the Shogun Army." Back shaking from behind him, the Agent removed an outfit from the satchel. Clothing in hand, he tapped the clothes with his gloves with a fervor. "This is your temporary uniform. Change into it quickly." Placing the temporary uniform in his hands, the Agent stepped outside, for a moment.

Clothes slammed into his hands, the hyena stared down at the temporary uniform. Dark purple shirt with long sleeves and a ribbon in the chest area, dark violet outer shirt with dark purple pants similar to the Agent's, a click of a realization switch turned on within the chimera. The area they had been headed to might have been a heavily militaristic area. Realizing such, fear nibbled on the cartilage of his ear.

Shoes removed for a a moment, Siorc unbuttoned his usual uniform. Every single article of shirted clothing had been removed. Untying the ribbon, the soldier put one the first layer. Ribbon tied on, the second layer had melted onto his partially human person. Brown pants removed, the soldier placed his possibly human rear on the icy cold ground. Dark violet pants on his currently human legs, the early adult flinched, for a moment. Whatever material the pants were made out of was not a material he could ever get used to. Heelless shoes back on, he stood back up on his currently human feet.

"I am ready, sir," the chimera responded flavorlessly. Whatever Her Majesty was planning, he knew it was certainly not a good thing. Holding his arm out, the soldier awaited gripping prison to take him like it always had.

Hearing his subordinate's response the Agent stepped inward. Soldier holding his hand out, the Agent placed the satchel on the chimera's back. Bag secured, the Agent gripped the limb into a tight lock within seconds. "Good, let's get going, soldier," the Agent responded. Escort beginning, another set of instructions had begun to form on the Agent's currently visible lips. "While in front of the Shogunate today, your name is Samé." Name being provided, a smirk appeared on the Agent's face. Her Majesty's gifts would serve the Shogun Army well.

As the escort to Kujou Encampment began, another realization had bore Lavender Melons. The name Samé was an Inazuman name. Coming to such conclusion, the young soldier's heart skipped a beat. Wasn't Inazuma still a closed nation to the general public? As the fast travel had begun, a thought graced the chimera's head as he closed his eyes.

Her Majesty was planning something, something sinister.

***

"Surely, Her Majesty, she is planning something sinister.
Her Majesty has yet again set sights on Inazuma.
Only now do I realize this
Gear, it is Inazuman.
Unless I am mistaken.
Nothing makes sense, this is astounding.

All I know is that whatever is in store, I must
Remain diligence. Diligence is key.
Maybe nothing will come of this.
Yes, maybe that's the truth I'll get to see."

Upon arriving at Kujou Encampment through the Teleport Waypoint, the hyena examined the area for a moment. Within his field of heterochromatic field of damaged vision had been multiple low ground houses. Archery dummies within a grassy area, and dirt road, the chimera was dragged forward. Wooden fence within every centimeter of the area, and army members littered throughout, the hyena let out a gulp. Military units holding polearms and shifting their eyes in suspicion, fear hugged the chimera from behind. Dragged towards a house with a purple banner, a particular person stood out within the crowd of generic nobodies.

Standing upon the wooden staircase was an incredibly tall woman. The woman had short blue violet hair that went down to about her shoulders. Red mask to the side of her hair looking foreign, and golden eyes looking indignant, the chimera focused on the outfit for a brief moment. White front outfit barely covering a black torso shirt, the hyena kept studying. Long skirt like bottoms with an intricate design embodied with gold symbols, and white sandals wormed into black stockings, the soldier ended his examination, but an oddity had occurred within seconds.

Seeing a set of for black wings pop out from behind her cracking with electricity for a moment, the hyena let out an inaudible yelp. Could the tall woman have been a chimera? The hyena did not know. Never having learned about the world of Inazuma, such facts had been a mystery to him. Having been removed from the gripping prison, the soldier stared off in silence as the workday was about to begin. Agent in disguise looking ready to speak, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible.

"General," the Agent said in a fake accent. "It has come to my attention there is an easier way to cease Visions for Her Excellency." He then placed his gloved hand by the helmet. "Glory to the Shogun!"

Siorc rolled his eyes to the sky at the Agent's ridiculous performance. Hearing his subordinate use the words Her Excellency, the hyena continued to stare at the clouds above. Was the Agent pretending to be a part of another Archon's army to further Her Majesty's plans? What incredibly ludicrous nonsense. But, hew knew he could not say such. Questioning Her Majesty's practices would end his life, within minutes. Agent divulging the plan to the winged woman, the soldier listened in utter silence.

Agent speaking in full detail about stumbling across tools that could help aid in keeping eternity, the chimera shifted his eyes. Had the Inazuma army been ceasing Visions from innocent people? Not having been in Mondstadt hearing the Diplomat's conversations to one another in a long time, the hyena had been none the wiser to the affairs of other nations behind closed borders.

Winged general asking multiple questions, the hyena allowed a gulp to escape the esophagus. Woman's words sounding suspicious, fear had begun to hold the chimera tight. The red masked winged general, was she already having reasons to be suspicious? Fatui being far more aggressive than any other military body in Teyvat, he supposed disguises were as thin as paper.

Disguised Agent continuing his explanation, the soldier continued to listen carefully. His subordinate again mentioning the easier method would be able to guide the will of the Shogun, the sight of wings detracting had made their roar known on militaristic display. Agent pointing at him after a few minutes, the chimera knew the next step was sauntering into motion.

"Samé," the Agent said with commando. "Show the General the solution." Pointing his gloved hand at the bag, the time had come.

Knowing such was his cue, the soldier removed the satchel from behind his back. Placing the bag in the General's hands, the woman opened the bag. Removing the tool from the bag, the hyena jumped four steps back. Living in the General's gloved hands had been a white color jewel with a Fatui insignia inside it. Seeing a sinister aura around the jewel, it had come to the hyena immediately. Her Majesty, was she attempting to control the Inazuma army with her Delusions? Knowing such weapons of war drained life energy, fear made a meal out of the hyena.

General looking as though she was about to accept the offer of the Delusion gifts, sweat had begun to stain his temporary uniform. The tall general, if she were to accept the sinister weapons of war, the Inazuma Archon's soldiers would all slowly cease to exist. Bearing witness to the general shifting an eyebrow, a battle was about to unfold on the military grounds. Agent again saluting, more sweat had stained the hyena's uniform.

"With these, I guarantee more Visions will be within our reach," the Agent exclaimed militaristically. "Glory to the Shogun!" Walking towards the exit of Kujou Encampment, silence had begun to make its rounds in the area.

Shogun army general glaring daggers at him, the chimera jumped eight steps back. Her golden eyes studying him for more than ten seconds, the hyena allowed a loud gulp to escape the esophagus. Had the black winged general suspected something? Not being in the same attire as his subordinate, the hyena had no doubt in his partially human mind such fact had to have been the case. General looking ready to speak to him, sweat continued to stain his temporary uniform.

"Are you two really members of this army?" the General asked, suspicion rising in her voice. "If you and your partner are impersonating members of the Raiden Shogun's army, I will arrest you both the next time I see you two around here!" Wings popping out from behind her, her stance had made itself known within seconds.

Black wings from behind the General again, the hyena shook his head in an instant. While he knew his silent answer had been a lie, botching the mission would make him land in even hotter water with Her Majesty within an instant. Woman's eyes shifting again, more sweat had begun to stain his temporary uniform.

Winged woman heaving a sigh, the chimera could feel relief tap him on the shoulder. Had the general believed him? He supposed, if such were the case, the time to exit the area had to come of him now. Winged woman saying the same line about bringing glory to the Shogun, the young soldier bowed, for a moment. Exiting towards the direction the Agent had headed towards, the hyena sauntered onward. Members of the Inazuma army continuing to glare daggers at him, relief had soon been shot by a sniper on the battlefield.

Retreating to a safe area, the hyena removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket. Agent not being anywhere within sight, he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks with post-haste. As the fast travel back to the permafrost north had begun, the chimera closed his eyes, like always.

Permafrost North within his field of vision in a split second, the early adult walked forward. Steel walled room nearing after about fifteen minutes, fatigue possessed the hyena like a ghost on Wuwang Hill. Temporary uniform removed, the soldier placed the clothing into the brown drawers. Removing a black undershirt, the Inazuman outfit had soon been replaced by the usual wear. Pants replaced as well, fatigue continued to eat away at the soldier.

Hairpins, earrings, and glasses removed, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. As his head hit the pillow, a wave of thoughts hade made rounds in the dormant shark grooves in his mind. Her Majesty was planting her sinister weapons within other nations. Closing his eyes as the world of sleep were about to take him for the night, one final thought had wrapped vines around the hyena's chest.

Her Majesty was beginning to make her moves on the world.

***

"These current orders of me are odd, to say the least,
Even though they are deliveries, I cannot help but feel this sense of unease.
Giving the multiple Fatui around Inazuma their delusions,
Nothing fills me with more amounts of shaky feelings.
Even though they are deliveries, Her Majesty is planning something, surely.

At the end of the day, it is what it, my orders are absolute.
For now, this is what I must do. I cannot complain.
Silence is key.
These are my orders, I cannot
Argue, question it.
No matter what my orders are, I have to keep working.
Diligence is key to successful living."

Upon waking up the next morning, the odd orders had continued to present themselves to the chimera. Being told to deliver Delusions to Fatui within the island of Kannazuka, Inazuma, unease had begun to make a meal out of the chimera. Her Majesty, was she truly beginning to make her moves within the Electo Nation of Eternity? Bag of delusions seeping with aura, fear continued its feast inside him.

Teleport Waypoint placing him on top of a grassy hill, the soldier made note of his surroundings. Cannon to the left side of him on a stone podium and purple glowing light off into the distance, the soldier had begun to sweat profusely. Had the area at hand been high in Electro activity? If he were to proceed forward, electrocution would grace his small body, for sure.

Agent instructing the early adult to deliver delusions throughout an area known as Tatarasuna, the hyena sauntered forward. Agent not following behind him, uneasiness had devoured him like Mondstadt Grilled Fish. He was to deliver delusions throughout Kannazuka alone. Being used to delivering weapons of war solo, the chimera studied the teleport waypoint proxy map in silence.

Tatarasuna being on the southwest side, the hyena stepped onto the sandy road below him. Pathway in front of him, the hyena stepped forward. But, as he stepped forward, an obstacle had immediately gotten in the way. Sitting in the middle of the road had been a large purple box. What could the box have been for? The hyena did not know, but such had not been the only obstacle within the path. Surrounding the purple box had been two tall men with horns. Men looking as though they were conversing with one another, the soldier quickly observed the two obstacles blocking his pathway to deliveries.

Standing to the left side of the odd box had been a man twenty centimeters taller than him. The person had short green hair that went down to his chin, and dark green eyes that matched the hair to a slight degree. Large curved brown horns on the top of his head, and furry white ears, the chimera tilted his head. Had the person been some sort of horned chimera? Having seen a tall white haired passerby with red horns on his head yelling about onis, the hyena's mind was pointing to more than one answer. Generic Fontaine outfit upon his partially human person, the soldier studied the second obstacle.

Standing to the right side of the odd box had been a a tall man that towered over him. Was the person over one-hundred-eight-two centimeters? Being unable to study him at eye length, the hyena raised to the tip of his toes. The second obstacle had short dark green hair that went down to about his ears, and golden eyes like a majority of the world of Teyvat. Long curved horns on the top of his head, and thick, bushy eyebrows, the hyena stared at the person's outfit. Small brown tail on his backside poking through his generic Inazuma clothing, and hooved feet lacking any sort of shoes, the chimera ended his examination. Party of two still conversing, the soldier waited. Interrupting one's conversation was incredibly rude, for sure.

"I can't sleep lately!" the shorter horned chimera exclaimed, tired.

Conversation still going, the hyena let out a sigh. What in the world had he walked into? But, he knew, no matter what, interrupting a person's conversations was rude. Figuring their conversation would soon wrap up, the soldier remained silent, for the moment. Conversation looking ready to continue, the hyena turned his head in the opposite direction.

"Then count sheep!" the taller horned chimera responded with confidence.

Unable to tune the conversation out, the chimera rolled his eyes to the sky. Of all the ridiculous obstacles, it had to have been two people talking about complete, utter nonsense. Turning his head towards the slightly shorter chimera, the young soldier crinkled his nose. Person looking ready to shout toward Celestia, the chimera put his hands over his ears. The world was about to hear the sound of insidious shouts.

"I'm a sheep!" the shorter horned chimera said explosively. "I'm not going to count myself!"

Taller chimera stroking his chin, Siorc stared in absolute bewilderment. Were the two chimeras in some sort of comedy duo? Knowing there had been performers littered throughout Teyvat, the hyena supposed such could have been the case. But, whether the two had been comedians or not was no business of his. Taller chimera looking ready to respond, the hyena remained silent.

"You're a ram," the taller chimera responded. He continued to stroke his chin. "So, how about goats, then?"

Shorter horned chimera raising his leg up in astonishment, the hyena again plugged his ears. Another loud scream was about to make its way towards Celestia. If their comedy act were to go on for much longer, getting to the next area would take hours, for sure. If such conversation were to go on for much longer, interrupting the conversation would certainly have to come into fruition.

"You're a goat!" the shorter horned chimera screamed explosively. "What if I see you in my dreams?!"

Comedy act not ceasing, for even a moment, a wave of irritation took residence within the hyena. Just how much longer could their aggravating act continue? The more he let the obstacle get in his way, the more impatient the Fatui would get with him. Time not being his while on the nonexistent clock, the early adult tapped the shorter chimera's shoulder.

Ram chimera turning his way, the hyena looked into his eyes. If the ram chimera were to pull any comedy act stunts, Fatui mode would be on within an instant. He had no time for anymore nonsense. Ram chimera not looking as though he was about to shout, an inaubidle sigh of relief hit the electrified wind.

"Oh, do you need to pass through?" The ram chimera asked. "Rede and I will get out of your way!"

Chimera pair stepping out the way, the early adult stepped forward. Obstacles behind him within minutes, the hyena kept walking straight. Purple plants within every corner, the chimera scoffed at the violet hues. Was purple the Inazuma Archon's favorite color, or something? Purple soon behind him, and two tall Fatui with teal gauntlets, his first delivery had been prepared.

Opening the bag behind him, two teal Delusions had been in hand. Two Fatui grabbing the Delusions like candy from a baby, the first delivery had been finished. Walking towards the left, a familiar sight had greeted the chimera. The wooden bridge near the water, and large cliffside in the distance. Had he been near the Mikage Furnace? Knowing Her Majesty claimed the furnace for herself, the deliveries in question had soon become no brainer for the soldier.

Stepping on the wooden bridge, the drawbridge had ascended. Small wooden house with no one inside it, the hyena descended the wooden staircase to the side of the uninhabited abode. Long wooden bride soon upon him, his next delivery had been upon him. Short female Fatui in an icy blue outfit with a taller woman Fatui with a dark blue outfit looking like water, the chimera again opened up the bag from behind him.

Hydro and Cryo delusions in hand, the two woman snatched the sinister weapons like their lives depended on it. Second delivery completed, the soldier headed towards the next area in complete silence. Broken bridge beneath his feet, the hyena deployed his wind glider. Wind glider always on him, no matter what outfit he wore was quite the convivence, indeed.

Broken bridge not leading to anywhere, the soldier descended to the ground. Other side of the path separated by water, the hyena trudged carefully. Odd Electro crystals everywhere near the water, caution was mandatory. Multiple odd looking brown devices with crackling electricity, the soldier kept walking straight. Next Fatui to deliver to stamping her feet, the chimera's legs broke out into a sprint.

Short green haired female Fatui with a purple hoodie looking agitated, the hyena opened the bag for the third time of the day. Electro Delusion in the palm of his hand, the young woman snatched the Delusion as though she were a certain phantom theif from another world beyond Teyvat. But such person existing was unknown to the entire population of Teyvat. Third delivery completed, the soldier kept moving.

Shallow body of water in front of him, the hyena proceeded with caution. If the water were to be deep, instantly sinking to the bottom would certainly come into fruition. Other Fatui in the area clicking her tongue from fifteen meters away, the chimera hopped over the water as fast as his human legs would allow. Short female Fatui surrounded by Cryo Cicins, the soldier reached for a Cryo Delusion from the bag.

Fatui yanking the Delusion in desperation, the fourth delivery had been completed within seconds. Fatui complaining he took too long, a jolt had cracked electricity on his partially human spine. The Cyro Cicin Fatui Mage, would she tell Her Majesty he had taken too long to fulfill his duties? Knowing an apology had to be in order, the hyena bowed his head before heading towards the next area.

Small seaside path soon upon him, the chimera legs had begun to break out into a sprint. Knowing how impatient the Fatui were as a group, the soldier would not falter. Multiple samurai readying their blades, the hyena accelerated his sprint. Any battles now would get in the way of his progress, for sure.

Seeing a red door within the distance, the hyena kept walking. Samurai everywhere he looked, the chimera kept running. Why had the area been so populated by samurai? He supposed Inazuma had come with its large amount of challenges. South side eventually completely traversed in its entirety, the soldier headed towards the next path.

Odd area with multiple purple stones, the chimera rolled his eyes to the sky. The wretched color of purple had made its reign known everywhere in the nation. Small battleground with a samurai claiming to not remember his name, the hyena kept walking towards the northern area. Small shrine soon in front of him, however, the early adult placed his hands into a praying position. The Gods needed respects paid to them. Prayers sent to the shrine, the young soldier continued walking towards the northeast direction.

Odd purple room with a treasure chest locked behind it, the soldier hopped off the grassy hillside. Three Fatui pacing around the area with extreme impatience, the soldier headed towards the three men within seconds. Cryo, Pyro and Hydro delusions in hand, the three soldiers bolted forward with a militaristic roar. Delusions ripped out of his hands like a bully grabbing a child's lunch, the delivery had been completed.

Turning the satchel to the front side, the hyena peered into the brown bag. No delusions remaining within the compartment, the chimera sealed the bag shut. Job being completed, the hyena opened up the teleport waypoint proxy orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, the early adult closed his eyes. Teleporting was still as blinding as it always had been. Soundproof room upon him after a short walk, fatigue had immediately took residence inside the man.

Temporary uniform taken off, the hyena put on his black shirt once again. Usual pants on him within seconds, the chimera folded the temporary uniform up. Inazuman wear put away, the chimera removed the hairpins and earrings, as well. Teleport Waypoint proxy map placed next to the hairpin and earrings box, and glasses removed, Siorc slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Sleep about to take him within minutes, the soldier closed his eyes. Question biting his cheek, the inquiry lopped on repeat as the world of tormented dreams awaited him.

Her Majesty, just what was she trying to accomplish?

***

"Your Majesty, just what are you planning?
All these deliveries, what are they trying to accomplish?
So many of your soldiers need Delusions.
Ho many of your soldiers remain unequipped?
I'm uncertain, and it is terrifying.
Ordinarily, this is not my duty.
Regifting tools of war is never on my radar.
It is never my duty, usually. Regardless of such,

Is time still unmoving? While things are no longer the same,
So many hours are not passing.
Looks like more deliveries are upon me today.
All and all, it is what it is. I cannot disobey.
No matter how trapped in time I remain,
Diligence is the only path for my survival, guaranteed."

Waking up the next morning, the odd orders continued their relentless reign. Agent informing him he would need to wear his temporary uniform again, the chimera changed into the Inazuman wear. Being instructed to deliver Delusions to Fatui around Yashiori Island, unease had made a second meal out of the chimera. Just how many Fatui were in Inazuma? The hyena did not know, but terror of war breaking loose played on repeat within the soldier's head.

Teleport Waypoint placing him near a sandy beach, the soldier stepped forward. Agent exiting the area, delivering Delusions solo had made their roar prominent as ever. Being instructed to open his map before his subordinate vanished, the hyena did as instructed. Pins placed on the map from an area known as Nazuchi Beach and ending region being within the path of an area known as Serpent's Head, the hyena stepped forward. Time was not his while he was on the nonexistent clock.

First Fatui waving her fists in a rage towards the ocean, Siorc opened the bag from behind him. recalling the Delusion he had to give her had been Hydro, the early adult placed the sinister orb into his currently human hands. Fatui of prisms snatching the Delusion as though it had been previously confiscated, the chimera kept walking through the sands of Nazuchi Beach, but his traverse was soon halted.

Standing by patches of dying grass had been the two tall obstacles from the day before. But, the party of two had been joined by a third member. Standing with a small firework in her hand had been a tall young woman with light orange hair tied back into a high ponytail. The young woman had a large earring on her right ear that looked like a wind chime on a door, and an orange kimono only covering one of her breasts. Second breast covered with bandages and legs barely covered by nothing but one singular red covering and black sandals, the soldier ended his examination of the person.

Ram chimera raising his leg in fear and pointing, the hyena attempted to growl. However, no such growl had come into fruition. Why had the two chimeras from yesterday been in the area blocking his path yet again? Were the Ram and goat chimeras the new pest that would bother him every step of the way? Group of three looking ready to converse with one another, the early adult started at the beach sky. Interrupting was still a rude gesture not worth performing.

"Why is she here?!" the ram chimera shouted, pointed at the orange haired woman. "No fireworks!"

Ram chimera continuing his point about, the hyena allowed an exasperated sigh drag out from his throat. Were the goat and ram chimera doing yet another comedy skit out in the open? He supposed the unfunny, uninteresting, lackluster comedy skit could run its course for the time being. Goat chimera scratching his chin, the next part of the act had begun.

"It's to commemorate my poem!" Rede exclaimed, arms around his chest in an arrogant manner. "I made no mistakes in my sonnet today!" He flared his nostrils like a bull.

Ram chimera, once again, looking ready to scream, the hyena covered his ears. Just what was so funny about screaming something to the audience? Comedy was a strange world of idiotic proportions. Knowing the skit would soon be over, the chimera continued to stare at the beach sky. Time was being wasted to a disgusting degree.

"The first line had twelve syllables, though!" The ram chimera shouted at the top of his lungs. He then turned to the orange haired woman. "Please, don't shoot fireworks!"

Orange haired woman looked dejected, the chimera rolled his eyes to the sky. Had the young woman been part of the comedy act, as well? Hearing the word sonnet and syllable, the young soldier shrugged his shoulders. If the goat chimera had been a poet, why bother wasting his talents with comedy? He supposed the lives of strangers was of business to him.

"Aww, bummer, no fireworks?" the orange haired woman asked, dejected. "But if you ever need any in the future, feel free to ask me!" She then turned her head to the other direction. Purple haired person in matching Inazuma clothing, she was ready to call attention to the person. "Oh, hey, you two someone is in front of you!"

Attention being called to him, the ram and goat chimeras stared at the hyena. Ram chimera raising his leg and looking ready to scream again, the soldier covered his ears. Was this part of their ridiculous comedy act? If such were the case, he would put an end to such ridiculous show now. But such scream had never come into fruition. Goat chimera scratching his chin again, he looked as though he had something to say.

"The kid from yesterday!" Rede exclaimed, pointing with his left index finger. "Tegne, he seems like someone you'd draw!"

Ram chimera raising his leg into a frantic position, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Why did the ram chimera enjoy screaming to Celestia so much? Could the Gods up in the sky even hear him? Ram looking as though he had something to say, the chimera gave eye contact. The sooner the conversation could roll out, the better.

"Maybe!" Tegne shouted in an explosive manner. Purple haired person looking rather impatient, he quickly lowered his tone, however. "But, we'll be out of the way. Sorry for blocking the path two days in a row!"

Party of three clearing out the path, the hyena walked forward. Knowing if he did not keep walking, Fatui would get angry with him, the soldier walked through the sandy beach as fast as his currently human legs would allow. Rest of his beach deliveries being handled, the chimera readied to head towards the next area with due diligence.

Area with a high amount of electricity, the soldier let out a frightened gulp. Water even being tinted with a shade of purple, the chimera proceeded with utmost caution. If the thunder were to hit him, he would lose consciousness within seconds. But, the luck, and Archons were on his side. Lightning bouncing off his uniform as though it acted as a lightning rod, no damage had been dealt to his partially human person.

Small female Fatui with a purple hoodie standing by a set of vines, the chimera opened the bag from behind him. Electro Delusion ripped out of his hands as soon as it entered it, the hyena kept walking. Group of Fatui looking impatient, the early adult delivered the Delusions to the group. No Fatui remaining within the highly static area, the man kept heading towards the eastward side.

Having no way to continue traversing other than a cliffside, the hyena climbed upward. Cliffside scaled, a strange area had been upon him. Yellow grass everywhere beneath his feet, the chimera let out a distasteful sigh. While nature and he had been on a break, unkempt grass was a terrible sight to behold. Regardless of such, the early adult kept moving.

No Fatui within the area, the chimera opened his map into orb form. Wrong direction being taken, the hyena let out a yelp. Had he taken the wrong bridge? Running back to the starting point of the area, the soldier had regained traction towards the right direction.

Tall prism attacking Fatui standing near a rock that looked like the head of a snake, the hyena removed a Delusion from the bag. Sinister Hydro orb gifted, the hyena kept moving. Recalling he had to head through a mine next, the soldier climbed upon the serpent rock. Although, descending towards the other side was a sight to behold.

As he travelled through the Serpent's Head, an oddity had been within his damaged field of vision. Sitting stationary within a battleground had been a large puppet with a sword. Knowing if he stepped near the puppet, a battle would be initiated, the hyena reduced his walk to a tiptoe. Puppet not approaching him, the soldier proceeded to the next area with vigilance.

Small wooden bridge soon nearing, the chimera's legs broke out into a sprint. Vines off on the edge of a cliffside, the soldier climbed down with careful precision. Group of six Fatui near a tree stomping their feet, the hyena removed six delusions from the bag. Sinister orbs yanked with aggression, the early adult opened his map one last time.

Blue arrow pointing towards the nearest waypoint in Jakotsu Mine, the chimera let out a tired sigh. Final destination almost being within reach, the hyena headed towards the north. Lightning striking the water within close proximity, Siorc walked forward. Bolts of Electro creation bouncing off his uniform, the young soldier would not falter.

Cryo Cicin Mage looking ready to summon her bugs as the chimera approached her, the hyena grit his teeth. Her Majesty's Fatui were quite impatient to get their hands on her gifts. Cryo Delusion removed from the bag, the young woman swiped the sinister orb as though it belonged to her and her only. Sharp nails cutting his palm a smidgeon, the early adult clicked his tongue. Was such violence even necessary? Patience was not a virtue for the Inazuma stationed Fatui.

Odd purple barrier standing in the water as he walked forward, the chimera had come to wonder: why had there been so much Electro within the area? Inazuma may as well have been an entirely different continent. Area moved through in silence, the final destination had been upon him. Group of six Fatui with war machines sitting impatiently upon the domain staircase and grassy floor, the area had been a crowded space with thunder to spare.

Six masks glaring at him with indignance, the hyena reached into the inside of the satchel. Three Hydro and three Cryo delusions seated in his hands, the gunmen took Her Majesty's gifts with a violent passion. Metallic edges of the delusions scratching his skin upon the impact, the early adult winced. The Fatui within the mine areas were the most violent of the Cryo Archon's soldiers.

Turning the back to the front side of his temporary uniform, the chimera peeked downward. No Delusions remaining within the container of brown, the hyena puffed a sigh of relief. No more impatient soldiers to deliver Delusions to, the time to end the workday had come.

Hands stinging as he opened the orb into map form, the soldier highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. As the fast travel to the permafrost north had begun, the hyena closed his eyes. Walking through the hallways, the soundproof room had been upon him within minutes. Steel walls soon engulfing him, the hyena sat upon the icy floor.

Small cuts from the various Fatui soldier's mild violence, the hyena clicked his tongue. No matter how many years were to pass in his forced upon homeland, the Fatui were still forceful and aggressive monsters. Never wishing to give into the aggression, Siorc shook his head. Aggression would certainly not cause leading victory.

Feeling a wave of fatigue, the hyena removed the temporary uniform from his partially human person. Familiar clothing soon on him once again, everything had been removed. Glasses soon off, the hyena slumped into the rock hard bed. But, a sea of thoughts soon erupted within him before the world of sleep could take him away.

Work being within Inazuma days in a row, the hyena knew another day of work within the Electro Nation of Eternity awaited him tomorrow. Duties forming patterns, as of late, slight confidence leaked through the chimera's pores. World of sleep about to take him away for the evening, the thought repeated one more time as he closed his eyes.

The odd jobs within Inazuma would continue tomorrow, surely.

12. Inazuma Odd Jobs 2: Mist And Fortunes

"Time is at a standstill.
Something is truly broken,
Ultimately nothing is moving.
Really, no matter where I deliver.
Ultimately, everything is frozen.
Monotony after monotony.
Inazuma truly is eternity.

Inazuma is also not moving.
Soon, I feel time will start
Looping.
As these momentary amount of days continue
Nothing is proceeding. Regardless,
Diligence is key to successful living."

Upon waking up the next morning, a realization had hit the chimera. His current orders of deliveries within Inazuma were forming into a pattern. Figuring another day of deliveries within the Electro Nation of Eternity awaited him for the day, the hyena rose from the uncomfortable bed. Pattern laid out in front of him, the soldier had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he headed for his uniform drawers, the early adult had immediately pondered: would wearing the temporary uniform be the correct one? Knowing if he wore the incorrect one, a world of anger awaited him, the young soldier took a deep breath. Purple Inazuman outfit within his currently human hands, the hyena prepared himself.

Removing the usual black undershirt, the hyena untied the ribbons of his temporary uniform. First layer melting onto his partially human person, the first layer had been on. Ribbon tied on, the second layer had glued itself into place. Dark violet pants soon solidifying on his currently human legs, the hyena flinched. Even as he wore the pants more, getting used to the materials was still not happening. But, he knew he had to get over such discomfort. Voicing complaints was not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier.

Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, the chimera clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching strawberries in his hair and ears, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Rations quickly devoured, and heelless shoes on, a subdued wave of self confidence coursed through him. Any moment now, the Agent would relay his orders to him.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots, the chimera listened in a careful manner. Footsteps sounding normal, a stronger wave of confidence devoured any other feelings within him like a pink alien from another universe unknown to the entire continent of Teyvat. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his mundane workday of deliveries to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You are delivering supplies in Tsurumi Island today." Supply bag in hand, he shook it with a fervor. Another day, another separate affair.

Siorc jumped two steps back upon hearing the name Tsurumi Island. He could feel a sea of questions swim through him as the seconds raged onward. Just where was Tsurumi Island? The hyena had been none the wiser to such area existing.

The name Tsurumi Island echoing throughout his eardrums, the hyena titled his head. Agent not yelling at him to change his uniform, the soldier took a quick deep breath. Could the island have been within Inazuma, as well? Recalling almost all of the Nation of Eternity had been islands, the chimera supposed such could have been the case.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you with me? You're going to Tsurumi Island to deliver supplies today! Get a move on!" There was an aggravated tone in his voice. He could never fathom what could possibly be on his subordinate's mind.

Hearing the name Tsurumi Island again, the chimera flinched. There was no time to be thinking. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Turning his head to the Agent, he removed the satchel from his subordinate's hands. Bag placed on his back, he looked at his subordinate's mask. Unseen eye contact given, he readied for the gripping prison to take him.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Area being within Inazuma or not, he knew he had to remain diligent. Arm being held out, he waited for the escort to begin, like always.

Seeing the soldier hold his arm out, the Agent straightened the satchel on his subordinate's back. Bag no longer crooked, he returned his attention to the situation at hand in an instant. "Good, let's get going soldier," the Agent responded. Arm in front of him, he gripped the limb into a tight lock. "We are travelling to the island by boat. So, don't fool around."

As the escort to Tsurumi Island began, the soldier's heart skipped a beat. They were to travel to the area by boat? Just how far out was the island, exactly? The chimera did not know, but he supposed he was about to find out within a split second. As the fast travel had begun, the hyena closed his eyes.

Another day of odd jobs in Inazuma awaited him.

***

"Today is just another day of deliveries, surely.
Having never heard of this island,
Everything will be the same, really.

Guess multiple Fatui within Inazuma do not have delusions handy,
Orbs of sinister power,
Looks like my deliveries won't be any
Different.
Every day is the same
Nothing is truly moving.

While such is the case,
Obviously, I do not know what is in store for me.
Looks like a long day of deliveries awaits me.
Fatui to Fatui, delusion after delusion.
Likely, the pattern will continue,
Or so it would seem
Really, it is best I do not question it.
Diligence and silence are key."

Upon arriving at Inazuma through the Teleport Waypoint, the hyena tilted his head. Behind him had been a large red door wedged in stone standing above a short stone staircase. Small set of trees sitting by a small cliffside, bewilderment ate the chimera like Udon Noodles. Just how far out had Tsurumi Island been? The chimera did not know, but he supposed he was about to find out.

Dragged down the staircase, the soldier had been placed within a small wooden boat. Removed from the gripping prison, the hyena's possibly human rear and the wooden boat met. Being instructed to open his Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map, the soldier opened up the orb into map form. Being told to place pins in the areas known as Moshiri Ceremonial Site, Chirai Shrine and Wakukau Shoal, the early adult did as instructed. However, an oddity had occurred as he observed the Tsurumi Island area of the map.

The Tsurumi Island portion of the map, why had the island been covered with a thick fog? It was almost as if, in many versions of Teyvat, in order to see the map of Tsurumi Island, the general population had to complete a quest. But such quest was not available for the chimera. Being able to read the locations just barely, the hyena pressed the confirm button in the corner of the proxy map. Marks added, he dissipated the map back into orb form.

Agent's gloved hands holding the paddles of Dendro creation, the vessel had begun to move forward with a militaristic roar. As the small boat cruised across the water, multiple thoughts crashed waves within the chimera's partially human brain. The mist on his map, could there have been a way to clear it away? Being none the wiser to how Her Majesty's technology worked, no solution had come his way.

Hearing the ocean waves crash underneath the boat, the hyena stood still. Shore getting farther away as the seconds raged onward, the hyena stared off into the ocean. Multiple small islands off into the distance, the soldier kept his mismatched eyes open. Small islands not looking like the right one, the early adult kept observing in silence as the boat continued to cruise forward.

Seeing an island appear within the distance, the soldier blinked. Island looking quite far away, more thoughts had crashed around like waves inside the chimera's partially human mind. Tsurumi Island, just what was in store for him there? Bag on his back feeling light, he knew the delivery of delusions could have been the only deliveries he could possibly have been making today.

Sky changing to a dark grey, visibility had begun to decrease as the boat moved forward. Ocean even getting shrouded by mist, the hyena had begun to wonder. Was traversing to the area by boat even safe? Obscurities increasing, danger had blared its alert horn. But such mist was of no problem for the Fatui Agent.

Agent cruising through the water as if no mist were present whatsoever, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. How could the Agent still be going in such type of weather present in the area? The Snezhnaya born Fatui were quite the terrifying, powerful monsters fueled by only their loyalty.

Boat steering towards the southeast, a blue light appeared off in the distance. The blue light, had it been some sort of beacon? The soldier did not know, but no such question would leave his lips. Everything but the blue light being obscured, the chimera kept staring off in silence.

Beacon slowly creeping forward, the hyena remained still. He knew if he moved even a little, the boat would sink to the bottom of the ocean within seconds. Misty cliffsides no matter where he looked, the chimera let out a sigh. If he had to climb everywhere to get around, the day would be a tiring one to be had, for sure.

Boat continuing to move towards the southeast, Siorc removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his temporary uniform pocket. Blue arrow near a misty area, the young soldier could feel bewilderment begin to intoxicate him. Just how far was the starting point? Vessel still not halting, the chimera stayed put.

Seeing electricity pop off in the distance, the hyena let out a gulp. If they had cruised any further, a bolt of electricity would damage the boat within seconds, for sure. But no such Electro damage had occurred. Purple ray getting farther away, relief soon hit like the ocean waves beneath the wooden vessel.

Destination finally close by, the hyena put on the most diligent face possible. Any moment now, his workday would finally begin. Hours of traversing nearing its end, the soldier let out a tired sigh. Sandy area nearing within seconds, the Fatui docked the vessel. Being ordered to get out within an instant, the hyena stood up from the boat.

Agent steering off in an instant, the hyena let out another tired sigh. He was to deliver the Delusions alone. Being used to such deliveries being solo, the soldier stepped forward. Strange statue soon going from a blue light to a red light, sweat had poured down the hyena's back. Why had the strange statue's light changed from blue to red? It was almost if, in a world outside Teyvat, the colors assigned to the statue had been the incorrect ones. Passing off such as an unexplainable phenomenon, the chimera had begun walking.

Small grassy area littered with multiple blue flowers, the chimera kept walking straight. No Fatui waiting in the grassy area, the soldier stepped onto the sand. Four Fatui with teal gauntlets in place of where Hilichurls would normally be, his first delivery had been prepared.

Opening the bag from behind him, four teal delusions had been in his two hands. Four tall Fatui grabbing their delusions like their lives depended on it, the first delivery had been completed. Heading towards the south direction, grass had soon crunched beneath his feet once again.

Group of four tall female Fatui in dark blue outfits crowded around what would normally be a Hilichurl tribe, the hyena could feel sweat pour down his back. Had the Inazuma stationed Fatui been defeating all the monsters in the area to assert their dominance? The soldier did not know, but he knew he had no time for such thoughts at hand. Knowing how impatient Her Majesty's soldiers could get, the chimera opened the bag from behind him.

Hydro delusions in hand, the four women snatched the sinister weapons as though they were food being served to them on a platter. Second delivery completed, the soldier walked towards the next area in complete silence. Mist not yet present within the area, visibility was still within the early adult's reach. But, he knew the mist would slowly, but surely, catch up to him.

Small stone passageway with artwork drawn on them, the hyena kept walking. Soon seeing four tall Fatui with short silver hair and red outfits, fear bit the chimera on the cheek. Four terrifying Pyro delusions in his two palms, the group of four ripped the sinister orbs of fire within an instant. Ramming the Delusions into their guns, the third delivery had been completed. Not wishing to see the flames unleash, the hyena's legs broke out into a sprint.

Spotting colorful fungus by the trees, and odd lamps with white energy pulsing through them, the hyena had begun to wonder. What purpose did the white lamps pose? Seeing many in a cluster, the chimera knew he had to keep note of them for later. Seeing more Fatui within the distance, the soldier sped up his walking pace a smidgeon.

Four short female Fatui with light blue hoodies standing by a small fire, the chimera turned his head to the left. Flames out of sight, and out of mind, the hyena removed the four Cryo Delusions from the bag. Fatui yanking the orbs from his hands, the fourth delivery had been completed. Strange monuments in his pathway closed tight, and rock lamps filled with a purple energy as he kept walking, the man proceeded with caution.

Odd stone passageway within his heterochromatic field of damaged vision, the hyena opened up the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb into map form. Blue triangle within the Moshiri Ceremonial Site, the soldier puffed a sigh of relief. Having reached one of the required locations, one-third of the work had been done for the day.

Multiple Fatui standing in the area discussing a takeover, the hyena opened the bag from behind him for the fifth time of the day. Multiple delusions delivered, the chimera opened up the map once again. Wakukau Shoal being the area nearest, the next destination was upon him. Ceremonial Site soon behind him, the soldier's legs had broke out into a sprint.

But such sprint had been halted within a few minutes. Sky beginning to look greyer, a sea of mist most certainly awaited him. Mist soon kicking in with every step forward, the hyena proceeded with caution. Knowing he could not borrow Her Majesty's delusions without her permission, braving through the mist was the only option that remained.

Lamps with purple aura keeping the mist at bay, the soldier kept walking. Had the Fatui already lit the area up? The hyena did not know, but visibility was an important and necessary tool to keep proceeding forward. Sandy beach soon nearing in his line of misty sight, the chimera climbed downward towards the shoal. However, an unwanted sight had soon graced his mismatched eyes as he stepped onto the beach before him.

Standing in the middle of the path near an abandoned boat had been the two obstacles from the day before. But, the party of two had been joined by a third member once again. Standing in a confident pose had been an incredibly tall man that towered slightly over everyone in the area. The tall man had long white hair with red streaks that went down to about his back side, and red horns on the top of his head. Red-orange eyes with red markings going down from his cheeks to his neck, and stub earrings on both his ears, the hyena examined the man's outfit. Unruly black jacket with purple ropes everywhere, and small thin purple shirt only covering his nipples, the soldier's eyes opened wide. Six pack Abs being on public display, the chimera placed his fingers by his eyes. Was he even allowed to look at a man's abs? Red markings everywhere, he could almost not take his eyes off the man. Trying to focus on anything else, an oddity had been presented before him. Strange orange belt buckle on his waist holding his black pants up, and wristbands with steel barbs, the hyena had come to wonder. Had the red horned man been inhuman in some way? Not getting any sort of chimera energy from him, Siorc ended his examination.

Ram chimera with a sketchbook in hand looking deep in conversation already, the soldier waited. He knew, no matter what, interrupting a conversation would be quite rude of him. He supposed he could wait for a few moments for whatever ridiculous shouts were about to echo throughout the beach sands.

"They weren't kidding when they said you were attractive!" Tegne exclaimed almost in a seductive tone. "Flex your muscles for me while I draw you!"

Ram chimera placing a quilled pen onto the sketchbook, the chimera let out an exasperated sigh. Had he only just started drawing? If such were the case, getting the next area within a few minutes was out of the question, for sure. He supposed he could wait it out, for the moment. Disturbing an artist during their art of the craft would cause the ram to scream at him. Such was not something he wished to hear, for any reason.

"Aw yeah, my bro, my pal!" the horned man said, flexing his muscles. "Make sure you get my good sides. Which is all of them!"

Siorc turned his head to the right. He could not help but agree with the ram chimera. But, he would not allow himself to say such. Sound of feathered pen hitting the sketchbook with a fervor, the hyena turned his head back around. Goat chimera looking ready to join the conversation battle, the soldier continued to stare in silence. Perhaps, just maybe, the conversation would come to an end soon.

"This oni will fit perfectly for my sonnet book!" Rede exclaimed cheerfully. His hand was on his chin. "Good find, Tegne, I can always count on my boy--" But a loud sound had interrupted him.

Ram chimera raising his leg upward, the hyena covered his ears. Ram looking ready to scream, the soldier kept his ears shut tight. Were the party of three shifting towards their ridiculous comedy act once again? If such were the case, an interruption would come into fruition, no matter what.

"No, you can't say that around other people!" Tegne screamed explosively. "We'll get judged for it!"

The chimera rolled his eyes to the sky. Comedy act soon taking place of the any artistic activity, irritation took residence within the chimera. Just how much longer would the distractions be in his way? Knowing if he kept anymore Fatui waiting, they would blow a whistle upon him, the early adult tapped the goat chimera's shoulder.

Goat chimera turning his way, the hyena looked into his eyes. If the ram, goat and tall horned man were to continue their comedy act, Fatui mode would be on within an instant. He had no time for anymore ridiculous bouts of nonsense. Goat chimera scratching his chin again, the chimera kept giving eye contact. The sooner the conversation were to roll out, the better.

"Oh, it's the kid again!" Rede exclaimed. "We'll get out of your way!"

Party of three clearing out the path, the chimera stepped forward. Knowing if he did not hurry, the Fatui waiting for their Delusions would be angry with him, the soldier sprinted through the sandy beach as fast as his currently human legs would allow. Short female Fatui stamping her foot near a curved tree, the next delivery had been taken care of. But, an oddity had occurred as he kept walking forward.

Strange brown portal standing in the middle of a battlefield, the hyena lowered his running speed into a tiptoe. But, as he kept stepping forward, the sound of screams echoed on the misty wind. Familiar sound of the ram chimera's shouts getting louder, the early adult rolled his eyes to the sky. Why were the group of three following him? The ram chimera was just as much of a pest as the penguin chimera had been prior.

"Don't go that way!" Tegne screamed at the top of his lungs.

Ram chimera's screams bouncing off his eardrums, the soldier kept tiptoeing further. Why did the comedy duo insist on continuing to get in his way? Knowing there were Fatui awaiting beyond the brown portal, the choice was not his. But, as he stepped closer to the portal, another scream had been echoing on the misty wind.

"Kid, you don't have a vision!" Rede screamed at the top of his lungs as well. "Don't go over there!" But his shouts were futile.

Stepping towards the brown portal was a terrible, horrible mistake.

Large brown otherworldly creature releasing itself from the brown portal, Siorc's eyes opened wide. Brown wolf with no legs to speak of crawling out of the portal, the hyena's heart skip more than seven beats. Otherworldly creature looking ready to attack him, regret had hugged the chimera from behind. Having no greatsword on him of any sort, an attack of monstrous proportions was about to grace his tiny body. But another scream had soon been caught on the misty wind.

"----! ----! You're the Number 1. Oni, right?" Tegne asked in a frantic tone. "Grab the kid with your big strong manly Oni arms!"

"You betcha!" The Oni answered immediately. Slamming his legs on the ground, the tall horned man had been ready to charge. "I'm the MAN!"

Tall Oni charging himself forward, the hyena had been grabbed within seconds. Placed on a safe platform far away from the terrifying legless wolf, the chimera had been removed from the Oni's grip. Everything moving faster than his damaged sense of time could follow, the hyena mouthed a thank you to the Oni. Party of three stepping forward, everything had continued to move faster than his body could follow.

"We'll fight the monster," Rede responded in a calm tone. "Why don't you head the other way and continue your work?" Three stepping into the battlefield, Dendro and Geo had soon shook hands.

Group of three battling with a fervor, the chimera stepped towards the other direction. Disgusting brown grass crunching underneath his feet, the hyena rushed through the area as fast as his currently human legs would allow. Coming across a camp with four Fatui with war machines on their back sitting with impatience upon the sandy ground, a world of violent scratches awaited him.

Four masks glaring at him with indignance, the chimera reached inside the satchel. Two Hyrdro Delusions, and two Cryo orbs in hand, the gunmen took their gifts with a violent fervor. Metallic edges scratching his skin upon contact, more stinging cuts had decorated the palm of his hand. Deliveries in the shoal area soon being completed, the early adult turned his heelless shoes in the opposite direction.

Knowing the only way to get to the Chirai Shrine was to return to the Ceremonial Site, the soldier headed northward. Sandy area soon behind him, the Ceremonial Site had been reached within fifteen minutes. Chirai Shrine text being obscured by mist, the hyena proceeded northward with utmost caution.

Grassy hill with blue flowers everywhere he looked, the hyena kept walking. Odd purple room with a treasure chest trapped inside it, the hyena jumped towards the next cliffside. But as soon as his currently human feet landed on the ground, the world of mist welcomed him again. Regardless of such mist obscuring his view, the early adult remained vigilant.

Rocky structure obscured by mist, the hyena kept walking. Seeing a group of four eyes glowing red in the distance near a strange gate, the final delivery of the day had been prepared. Four tall Fatui obscured by many layers of fog, the hyena placed the remaining Delusions within his hands. Soldiers ripping Her Majesty's gifts out of his hands as harsh as ever, the metallic edges scratched the skin upon impact, the early adult winced. The Inazuma stationed Fatui were still the most violent of all Her Majesty's soldiers.

Turning the bag to the front side of his temporary uniform, the chimera peaked downward. No Delusions remaining, the hyena let a sigh of relief release from the throat. No more impatient soldiers to deliver weapons of war to, the early adult highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. As the fast travel back to Snezhnaya had begun, the hyena closed his eyes.

Steel walled room soon upon him, a wave of tiredness hit the hyena. Temporary uniform removed, the hyena placed the clothing back into his uniform drawers. Usual black shirt on him, everything had soon been replaced with the usual clothing.

Hairpins, earrings and glasses removed, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Although, as he closed his eyes, the visions of the otherworldly wolf appeared in his mindscape. Brown wolf monster flashing through his mind, fear wrapped vines around the hyena. World of tormented sleep awaiting him, the terrifying monster awaited him in the land of dreams.

Being defenseless in the wake of battle was horrifying, indeed.

***

"Yes, it would seem another day in the mist filled island awaits me.
Or is time looping? I'm starting to feel
Unsure, but everything feels the same.

Looks like days a truly looping.
Over and over, in this cold breeze.
Scenery changing, but is it really?
The world is beginning to all look the same.

Yes, today is looping as well.
Or is it really? Everything is breaking.
Unless I am mistaken,
Returning to the island of mist
Seems to await me again on this day.
Even so, I must not falter.
Looping or not,
Fatui are awaiting their Delusions, always.

Always, and forever, in this looping
Monotony.
It is the same every day, but I must comply.
Diligence is key.
Silence is my reckoning.
These momentary amount of days will end eventually.

These momentary amount of days of nothing will end sooner or later, surely.
However, it seems an
Eccentric order has been given to me.

Maybe it is my imagination, surely.
I'm certain I imagined it.
Stealing stones from Tsurumi Island, really?
There has to be some sort of mistake in this, surely."

Upon waking up the next morning, the orders from the day before had rolled the dice a second time. Being told he would be delivering delusions to Fatui in Tsurumi Island again today, the chimera had been hit by a wave of dejavu. But, the feeling had soon been replaced by a wave of unease. Agent telling him he would have to collect purple machines for Her Majesty, fear nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. Wasn't taking machines from their rightful area considered stealing? If any of the locals in the area were to catch him, justice would be served to him on a weapon platter.

As the boat cruised forward, the chimera had been instructed to open his map once again. Orb opened up into map form, the hyena did as commanded of him. Placing a pin on the Autake Plains, Oina Beach and Shirikoro Peak areas, the young soldier dissipated the map back into orb form. Other half of Tsurumi Island being his destination today, the early adult took a long deep breath.

Vessel reaching the destination within an hour or so, the chimera stepped off the boat of Dendro creation. Agent steering off within seconds, the world of solo deliveries awaited him again. Familiar red statute soon within his field of damaged vision, the chimera walked forward as though he were a Ruin Guard running on autopilot within the open wilderness.

Hilichurls in the areas where Fatui had been yesterday, the soldier proceeded with caution. Not having any weapons on him or feeling as though he could transform his human arms into hyena ones, the hyena stepped around the group of monsters to the best of his ability. Enemies not spotting him, for the moment, a peaceful walk forward ensued.

Ceremonial Site soon upon him, an odd sight had greeted his damaged field of vision. Regular Inazuma citizens standing within the Ceremonial Site area, the soldier shook his head. The Fatui had to have moved on from the area by now. Knowing he had to keep going, the hyena exited the area.

Peering down towards the shoal below, the hyena headed westward. Autake Plains soon nearing, mist had engulfed the area within seconds. Visibility being close to zero, the chimera walked forward. Descending towards the ground, the fog had begun to swallow the early adult whole.

As he kept walking forward, the misty sea of the plains continued to make a meal out of him. Multiple wooden stones containing purple lights, the mist would not dissipate, even for a moment. Red Fatui eyes glowing in the mist for a moment, however, the hyena removed a set of three Delusions within an instant. Gloved hands snatching the orbs all at once, the first delivery of the day had been completed within an invisible display.

Continuing to head northward, the visibility had only begun to decrease. Only being able to make out the grassy path in front of him, confusion played on repeat within the early adult's head. Had he even been heading in the right direction? The chimera did not know, but he knew he had to keep going. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.

No Fatui within sight, the chimera kept walking. Visibility decreasing with every step, the soldier rubbed his eyes. Had the world been as though he had removed his glasses? The hyena knew such was not the case, but he felt as thought it had been such a way, for the moment.

Lamps with a white aura not able to keep the mist at bay, the world's visibility had been reduced to zero. Mist soon glowing with a white aura, the fog had begun to eat him alive with a plate of onigiri. World of white soon swallowing him whole, the soldier had begun to wander astray in the opposite direction.

The world of mist was immediately about to meet its match.

Feeling two arms grabbing him tight, his body moved forward. Dragged towards a large blue-violet leaved tree, the hyena turned his head. But the misty sight before him was a disgusting sight to behold. The ram chimera and goat chimera, why had they been everywhere in Inazuma he had been? If they had been following him around, Fatui mode would be granted to them within seconds. Goat chimera looking ready to speak, the soldier let out an exasperated sigh.

"Got you! Are you lost?" Rede asked, concerned. "You're not from here, are you?" But another voice had soon joined the battle.

"Uh, hello, Rede!" Tegne interjected explosively. "We're not from here, either! How soon you forget!"

Comedy act firing off like a sniper on the battlefield, Siorc could feels his blood boil over into hot lava. Whatever unfunny, uninteresting, lackluster comedy skit were about to happen, the hyena was not interested, in the slightest. Would telling the group of two off get them to leave him be? The chimera knew he had no choice but to use what he rarely did. Unusual words forming on his lips, the rare act of using his words had begun.

"Let go of me," Siorc said, voice bitter. Human hands attempting to swat the ridiculous comedians away, the hyena pulled forward. "And quit following me around." Words slightly more audible than normal, the soldier had made his roar known to the ram and goat holding him in place.

Being let go of, the chimera's arms had been freed. Nothing restraining him any longer, he knew that was his cue to leave. But, another obstacle had presented itself as the seconds raged onward. Seeing the ram chimera raise his leg upward, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the misty sky. What more could the unfunny comedians have to say to him? He supposed he could hear them out for one more moment if they would agree to stop following him around on the island of mist and fog.

"Following you around?!" Tegne shouted explosively. "You're mistaken, on that front!" Placing his hands on his hips, a pouty look possibly appeared on his face. "We're just a travelling artist and poet!" Pouting louder, his words had been caught on the mist. "It really is just a coincidence we happen to be in the same areas!"

Ram chimera not seeming as though he was lying to him, the hyena bowed an apology. He supposed coincidences were not an entirely impossible phenomenon. Perhaps, just maybe, he had jumped to unfair conclusions. Goat chimera also looking ready to say something, the hyena turned his attention to him.

"Even so, you did get yourself lost in the mist," Rede chimed in. "We couldn't just leave you to wander wayward like that." He then pointed to the satchel planted on his back. "I took notice you don't have a Vision on you. May I take a look at your bag for a second?" Permission requested, the goat waited.

No Fatui being present within the area, the soldier removed the bag from his backside. Opening the satchel wide open, the goat chimera dug in like a shovel. Barely visible Electro Delusion soon within his hands, the man placed the Delusion on the hook of his pants. Every single white orb turning purple, the pathway had soon been lit. Mist vanishing on the wind, the goat had returned at lightning speed. Dropping the Delusion back into the bag, he returned the satchel back onto the hyena's backside.

"You'll be fine now," Rede said in a sweet tone. "Good luck." Taking Tegne's hand into his own, the two exited the area.

Pathway clear to him, the hyena walked forward. Nine Fatui waiting by large trees near a small river, the soldier removed the nine remaining orbs from the bag. Delusions of every color ripped out of his hands as though they had been waiting for all of Inazuma's eternity, the final delivery of the day had been completed. But, he knew he had one more order upon him.

Recalling he had to place a pin on his proxy map near the Shirikoro Peak area, the hyena walked towards the small pool of water. Finding the shallowest end that did not require swimming, the soldier skidded the water like an aquatic creature.

Small beachside conquered, the soldier had begun to wonder. The purple stones Her Majesty wanted, just where could they have been? Noting there had been a large cliffside, the soldier climbed upward to the first peak. Seeing a small stone podium in the corner, the hyena climbed downward. Eventually coming towards an entrance, the early adult stepped inside.

Mist soon engulfing him for a brief moment, a tree littered with blue mushrooms had stood out amongst the mist. The tree surrounded by multiple mushrooms, did it serve any special meaning within the Tsurumi Island area? The hyena did not know, but he supposed he could find out at a later date.

Stepping around the large tree, a pool of water splashed beneath the chimera's heelless shoes. Seeing off purple lights floating towards the ground, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. Purple lights looking like feathers, the soldier chased the inanimate objects with a fervor. Feather guiding him inside a small cavern, the hyena examined the area with due diligence.

Within every centimeter of his vision had been a low ground cavern. Stone walls everywhere he looked, the area looked ancient. If his father were still a member of the living, he would enjoy researching such an area, for sure. But, the chimera knew such thoughts had to exit his mind immediately. Finding the purple stones Her Majesty requested had to come of him now.

Seeing a small opening in the stone wall, Siorc jumped through. Seeing a small machine with a purple stone on it, the hyena tilted his head. The small machine with the purple stone passing electricity through it, could that have been the object Her Majesty wanted? Picking the small machine up, the soldier placed the object in the satchel. Knowing one would not be enough for Her Majesty, however, the chimera stepped forward.

Second machine grabbed, the hyena placed the purple stoned object into the satchel. Knowing Her Majesty would never be satisfied with just two, the early adult kept looking. Ruin Guard body buried within the dirt nearby, no witnesses had been around to spot him. A lucky break to be had, for sure.

Coming across one more machine with a purple stone, the soldier placed the machine within the bag. Stones of former Electro Activity within his grasp, an extreme amount of unease had begun to devour the hyena. Taking the machines from their rightful locations had to have been considered stealing, surely. No more machines in the area that looked like they could be picked up, the workday at hand had been completed.

Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, the chimera closed his eyes. Barracks within his field of vision within a split second, the chimera stepped forward. Supply closet door in front of him after about ten minutes time, the soldier turned the knob.

Placing the satchel within the supply closet, the hyena shut the door tight. Job for the evening finally completed, the hyena returned to the soundproof room. Temporary uniform removed, the familiar black undershirt had soon took its place like a ghost on Wuwang Hill. Everything else removed as well, the hyena slumped into the rock hard bed. As the world of sleep were about to take him away for the evening, one small thought poked the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

Did another day of odd jobs in Inazuma await him tomorrow?

***

"Now I just do not know anymore,
All these requests of me, is Her Majesty joking?
Really, she wants me to get a fortune slip for her.
Unless I am mistaken, this is ridiculous, even for her.
Knowing Her Majesty, however, she has her reasons. Her orders are
Absolute.
Maybe getting her that fortune slip she wants,
It will her impress her.

Since the water could still be
Hot between us, I need to keep working harder.
Relatively speaking, a fortune is absolutely nothing.
It is a mere piece of paper.
Nothing bad will happen, surely.
Even if the fortune is bad, maybe she won't kill me."

Waking up the next morning, the chimera would not falter. Agent telling him he would have to deliver supplies within an area known as Chinju Forest, the escort to the area had begun. But, another order had been relayed to him as the fast travel began. Subordinate telling him he would have to stop by the Narukami Shrine after his deliveries were finished to pick up a fortune slip, a sea of thoughts flooded the hyena's partially human mind.

Her Majesty, why had she wanted a fortune slip, of all things? Couldn't she go away on business to grab a fortune slip on her own time? But, he knew no such question was allowed to leave his lips. Questioning any of Her Majesty's orders was a forbidden act that would extinguish his life in an instant.

Agent dropping him off within the Chinju Forest, another day of solo deliveries had been upon him. As his subordinate left the area, the soldier examined the forest for a brief moment. Small forest area with blue flowers glowing against the trees, the hyena walked forward. Small shallow river upon him and red gate to the other side, the hyena's legs had broken out into a sprint.

Blue flowers glowing in the darkness everywhere, the hyena shifted his head towards the center. Flowers and the chimera will still seeing different partially human people. Stone staircase upon him, the soldier ascended. Seeing a small red shrine towards the midway point, the early adult placed his hands into a praying position. The shrines of gods, Archon or not, deserved respects paid to them. Respects paid in full, he kept ascending.

Small brown creature with a leaf on its head dancing about, the hyena lowered his walking speed a smidgeon. Hurting a woodland creature was not on the recipe for any reason. Creature soon vanishing into thin air, the first Fatui he had to deliver to appeared within his distanced field of vision.

Small Fatui woman with a purple hoodie waiting impatiently, the chimera removed an Electro Delusion from the satchel. Cicin Mage grabbing the orb with violence, the first delivery of the day had been completed. Knowing the Narukami Shrine had been through an area known as Mt. Yougou from the looks of his proxy map, the soldier stepped towards the right side.

Fox statue with glowing purple eyes in front of him, an odd smaller statue with a small leaf on its head had been surrounding the bigger statue. The leaf, was it supposed to be on the small statue? He supposed attempting to remove it would not hurt. But, as soon as he made way to touch the leaf upon the small stone fox statue, a cloud of smoke clouded his vision for a moment.

Smoke cloud disappearing, the hyena jumped eight steps back. Standing where the fox statue had been was a short young girl with light brown hair tucked behind a white hoodie with black ears. Leaf floating on top of the hoodie, the chimera stepped two more steps backward. The leaf on the young girl's head, did it have some sort of magical powers? The chimera did not know, but if such were the case, it was a baffling magical leaf to be had, for sure. Short outfit with purple on the top area, and wheat towards the pants area, the early adult ended his examination.

"Darn! I was having such a nice nap," the girl with the hoodie whined sleepily. "I won't get any taller if I don't get my sleep!"

Red eyes looking at him with a tired glare, the hyena walked four steps forward. The young girl, had she used the magical leaf on her head to disguise herself as a fox statue to get some sleep? Knowing he had disturbed a person in their slumber, an apology was soon to be in order for the young girl before him. Disturbing one's sleep was a terrible, and rude gesture of him.

"I'm sorry, miss," the chimera replied, voice barely audible. "Goodnight."

Small fox statue with a leaf on it soon returning, the hyena headed westward. Small statue guarded by a group of woodland creatures, the soldier placed his hands into a praying position. Had the statue of the woodland creature been a god in some way? Prayers sent to the statue, the soldier kept walking.

Green grass soon becoming blue, a red house had eventually been within his field of damaged vision. Tall female Fatui looking ready to attack him with her delusional mirror prisms, the hyena removed a Hydro Delusion from the bag within an instant. Gloved hands swiping the sinister orb of war within seconds, the second delivery for the day had been completed.

Seeing another Electro Cicin Mage standing near odd orbs with a purple light, the chimera removed the sinister orb of electricity from the satchel. Final Delusion delivered, all the deliveries for the day had been completed. Purple grass near a cliffside, the hyena climbed upward, but an oddity had graced him as he stepped forward.

Standing in front of him had been a pool of purple water. Knowing he could not swim any far distance the soldier turned his head to the right and left. Spotting a large branch heading towards another cliffside, the hyena hopped onto the bark within an instant. First section of the cliffside scaled, the early adult let out a pant. Climbing a tiring ordeal, but Siorc would not falter. Second half of the cliffside scaled, the man kept climbing. Large cliff seeming as though it could go on forever, a few pauses had occurred in between.

Peering upward during a short break to breathe, pink trees had appeared on the skyline. Knowing the pink trees had to have been connected to the Narukami Shrine, the soldier kept climbing. Any moment now, the final destination of his work day could be upon him. Peak of the mountain reached within an hour and a half, the momentous climb had reached its climax.

Large red shrine within a distance, the hyena slipped towards the stone path before him. Shrine Maiden saying to talk to the Electro Archon if one is troubled, and woman complaining about a bad fortune in the distance, the hyena walked through the shrine. But, as he was about to move towards the fortune box, area, a familiar obstacle had been in the way.

Standing in the middle of the stone path blocking the pathway had been the two obstacles from the multiple days before, but the party of two had once again been joined by another member. Standing near the goat and ram chimera had been a tall woman slightly shorter than the party of two. The young woman had long pink hair that went down to her legs. Within her hair had been pink ears. Recalling the fox statues he had seen before, the ears had been no mystery to the chimera. Figuring foxes had a significance within Inazuma culture, no thoughts of whether the pink haired woman had been a chimera graced the early adult's mind. Shrine maiden outfit with a purple ornament in the center, the hyena ended his examination.

Group of three looking deep in conversation, the chimera let out another exasperated sigh. Just what were the travelling poet and artist up to this time? He supposed he could wait for whatever shenanigans they had in store to be finished up before moving towards the fortune boxes for Her Majesty.

"Oh, my," the fox said, in a teasing manner. "What brings chimeras to the Grand Narukami Shrine?"

Ram chimera placing a book in his hands, the hyena stared off in silence. What would showing off the illustration book to a fox shrine maiden even do for the travelling group? The chimera did not know, but he supposed whatever the group was up to was absolutely no business of his. Desperate aura filling the area, the early adult turned his head to left.

"Please, Guji-sama! We worked hard on this book!" Tegne begged and pleaded. "We'll do anything!"

Fox shrine maiden laughing to herself, the hyena shifted his eyebrows. Whatever was about to happen to the chimera duo, nothing good was about to come to them, for certain. Fox stepping away for a moment, a large teal dress had been seated in her left hand. Teal dress looking gorgeous, drool had almost appeared underneath the hyena's lips.

Even though the conversation had nothing to do with him, he wanted the teal dress.

Conversation soon resuming, the hyena again moved his head to the left. Everything going on in the area was still no business of his. But, the fox's voice was too enticing to ignore, for any reason. Fox soon calling attention to herself, a wild suggestion had soon been on holy display.

"Oh, really? Anything?" the fox asked in a catty tone. "In that case, why don't one of you wear this for me?" Teal dress in front of her, her tone had soon become facetious.

Ram chimera raising his leg once again, the soldier placed his hands over his inhuman eardrums. The world was about to hear the ludicrous shouts, once again. No matter how many times he had crossed paths with the duo, the loud screams were never a pleasing experience.

"There's no way we'd pass as women, though!" Tegne shouted at the top of his lungs.

Fox shrine maiden's face looking even more facetious, the chimera could not help but feel bad for the party of two, for a brief moment. Foxes were sly and cunning creatures, indeed. But, he knew there could have been a possibility the fox maiden could read his mind. Slapping his cheeks, any negative thoughts about the fox exited his brain within seconds.

"Oh, but, you said you'd do anything!" the fox replied in a catty tone. "It was you who said, 'Please Guji-sama, I'll do anything,' after all!" But another voice soon joined the battle.

"We're as masculine as men get!" Rede interjected, puffing out his chest.

Siorc rolled his eyes to the sky as the conversation kept going. Had the two distractions gone back to doing another comedy act? The comedy act was most certainly getting old. Fox looking ready to finish the ridiculous, unfunny, stale comedy act, the soldier stepped two paces forward.

"Then I'm afraid I can't help you!" the fox responded, sly tone of voice.

Party of two shrugging their shoulders, the group stepped forward. Purple haired person standing by the shrine building, the two looked at one another. Had they crossed paths with him again? Coincidences were starting to string together into something beyond.

"Ah, sorry, kid, we're always in your way, aren't we?" Rede asked. "We'll move!"

Two chimeras moving out of the pathway, the hyena stepped forward. But, as he stepped forward, the beautiful teal dress had been in his line of sight. Feeling himself almost about to drool, the soldier stared at the teal outfit for almost fifteen seconds. Even though the outfit had nothing to do with him, he wanted that teal dress. Fox Shrine Maiden soon taking notice, however, the dream had been shattered to pieces in a split second.

"You want to wear this?" the fox asked. "In your dreams."

Dreams crushed within a matter of seconds, the soldier let out a somber sigh. He supposed he was not allowed to enact upon his desires, anyway. Fox stepping towards a odd tree shaped like a dragon, the soldier slipped towards the fortune slip booth. Blunt woman greeting him, the hyena pointed to the red cylinders.

Wordless language getting through, a red cylinder had been placed in the early adult's hand. small bamboo stick popping out of it, the hyena looked the generic woman in the eyes. Woman demanding he hand over the bamboo stick, a fortune paper had soon been placed in his currently human hands.

Reading the fortune slip, the chimera let out an audible gulp. Was good fortune good enough for Her Majesty? One fortune slip only being allowed per day, the choice was not his but to accept Her Majesty's fortune in hand. Pocketing the slip, the early adult removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his temporary uniform pocket.

Teleporting back to the military barracks, the chimera walked through the hallways as swift as his currently human legs would allow. Steel walls soon approaching, the soldier removed the fortune slip from his front pocket. Being told by the Agent to place the fortune slip on the front of his door, the hyena did as instructed. Fortune slip stuck onto the door, the early adult stepped into the soundproof room.

Walking over to his uniform drawers, the chimera removed the temporary uniform from his partially human person. Folding up the outfit, the familiar black undershirt covered his chest scar within an instant. Usual evening uniform pants soon replacing the temporary pants, everything had returned to normal, for the final moments in the mortal waking, world, for the night.

Staring down at the temporary uniform for the moment, the hyena let out a tired sigh. Would he have to wear the Inazuman outfit yet again tomorrow? Work still being in a pattern as of late, he knew the temporary uniform had still not completed its purpose within his Diplomatic Fatui life. Figuring he would have to wear the uniform again tomorrow, the young soldier closed the brown drawer shut.

Not yet feeling tired enough to slump into the rock hard bed, the chimera sat upon the icy cold floor. Fortune paper rustling on the outside of his door, a sea of questions had flooded through the young soldier's partially human mind. Of all orders, why did Her Majesty want him to grab her a fortune slip? He supposed such question would never lead to any sort of answer. Letting the question die in the snow outside, the early adult stood up from the icy cold floor.

Feeling fatigue settling in, Siorc removed the hairpins and earrings. Slipping the matching set into the jewelry and accessory box, the chimera had begun to head towards the rock hard bed, but another thought had soon come crashing into the hyena's mind. The good fortune slip, would it have been positive enough for Her Majesty? He knew if he disappointed Her Majesty one more time, his life would be over, in an instant. Fortune slips being a scam of society, control on the fortune on the paper was beyond the scope of his ability.

Fatigue soon kicking into overdrive, the chimera removed his glasses. Everything being removed, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. As his head hit the pillow, another set of invasive thoughts had crashed around in the chimera's head like the waves off the coast of Yaoguang Shoal.

Her Majesty, had she requested he obtain a fortune for her to see if was time to move forward with her plans of war? He knew, if such were the case, a world of violence throughout Teyvat would soon come for the world. But, he supposed he was overthinking such. The world of fortunes was a scam society created to trick people into believing false prophesies that did not exist in reality. Returning his mind to a thought from earlier, the soldier repeated the rumination on repeat as the world of sleep were about take him away for the night.

What odd jobs awaited him in Inazuma next?

TW: MILD GORE, GRAPHIC DEPICTIONS OF VIOLENCE

13. Inazuma Odd Jobs 3: Lighting Rods Planted, Beads Collected

"So much is happening, but is it really?
Every day feels as though
I'm not really experiencing.
Really, am I here?
All of the days must actually be looping.
Inazuma truly is eternity.

Inazuma, it is also looping.
So many deliveries,
Looping, repeating, reversing.
All and all, I need to keep working
Need to keep going.
Diligence is key."

Dreaming had continued its relentless reign of anguish within the adult chimera's subconscious mind. Such pattern would not cease, even within his adult life. The torment would continue in the path in the night before him, as well, although, the torment would bring itself to the maximum level on the dream battlefield.

Before him had been a terrifying location to behold. Blue carpet beneath his feet, and empty throne chair before him from afar, a chill had run down the chimera's partially human spine. Why had the dream world taken him to Her Majesty's palace this time? But, he knew the world before him had no room for answers.

No one entering into the dream world for many dream minutes on end, the early adult had come to a quick, but haphazard conclusion. Perhaps, just maybe, leaving the setting before him could be a possibility. Figuring the world of the subconscious would remain empty, the hyena attempted to leave the area. But, no such movement ever came. Feeling a nonexistent adhesive lock his currently human legs in place, the hyena let a gulp escape the dream throat. An event of torment was about to befall him.

A repeat of history would soon grace the dream world.

In a matter of dream minutes, a face he did not wish to see entered the area. Coming almost out of nowhere had been Her Majesty. Left leg crusted into her right thigh, an unfeeling chill had run down the hyena's partially human spine. Her cyan eyes looked indignant and cold. Cold, and unloving, just like they had always been. Witnessing a faint red glow behind her robe, the chill had creeped upon him deeper. A punishment was coming any dream minute now, surely.

"You've disappointed me one too many times," Her Majesty said dryly. Her voice was as cold as the permafrost north's month long blizzards. "My lovely chimera." Her tone was deep and low, viciousness evident throughout. "You can kiss your life goodbye." A wicked smile had soon grown on her face far more sinister than the soldier had ever seen before.

Crowd of Fatui soon appearing within the not reality before him, fear had made a meal out of the hyena. Hundreds of eyes glowing red, the fear had swallowed him whole, within an instant. Punishment soon to come, dread had possessed him like a ghost at Wuwang Hill. Death within the dream world looming over him, he knew he had to apologize. Apologize, yes, he had to apologize to Her Majesty. Perhaps, just maybe, an apology would change the trajectory of the course of the dream.

But, no such apology ever came. Feeling a nonexistent zipper close his lips shut, silence played on repeat. Cryo Archon's smirk growing wider, a sinister laugh had soon echoed throughout the palace walls. Making her stance known, the chimera closed the dream eyes for a moment. There was no escape. The punishment would soon be served on a bloody platter.

"It's too late for apologies, my dear chimera," she laughed in a commanding tone. "Now, my lovely Balladeer, ready the sword."

Balladeer soon appearing by the throne, sweat had poured down the chimera's small dream body. Within the Sixth Harbinger's small hands had been a dark red and black sword with a sinister red orb in the hilt. Seeing such an orb, the early adult's dream eyes opened wide. The sword, was it about to combust into flames? Blade soon doused in flames as the Balladeer crept closer, the soldier squirmed in place. A world of fire would soon await him.

"Look at you, blind, stupid, and incompetent," the Balladeer scorned. As he said such, the hyena's uniform had been peeled off almost like paper. "Our Archon doesn't need you anymore, bye bye!"

Scars on full dream display, dread had wrapped a rope around the hyena's neck. Flaming sword within one meter of his stomach, the time had come. Sword and his stomach shaking hands, the scar had split open within a matter of dream seconds. But, such was not the end of it. Flames soon engulfing the reopened wound, the horrifying element filled in the hole in an instant.

As the flames continued their rampage, the soldier's body and the blue carpet met. No scream able to burst out, the hyena closed his dream eyes. Crowd soon disappearing, blackness overtook the hyena. Flames spreading as the dream seconds marched on inexorably, one final thought graced the hyena's mind as his dream body had begun to perish.

If he were to truly die in Snezhnaya, he would find a way to become a spirit.

***

"Is Her Majesty disappointed in me?
No matter how I look at it, that dream
Absolutely means something. Knowing this, I must be
Zealous. I need to be diligent. Obedient, silent.
Ultimately, that is key. Her
Majesty, maybe she won't kill me.
After all, I need to do as she commands of me.

Obedience is key.
Diligence is my reckoning.
Disappointment will end me.

Just like yesterday, Inazuma awaits me,
Obviously, this pattern is continuing,
But I have this feeling,
Something sinister awaits me.

For the most part, I must shake it off.
I need to keep these thoughts away.
Now more than ever, I need to work harder.
All and all, she could be watching.
Likely any small mistake I make will lead to my
End. So, I need to keep working to keep on living."

Upon waking up from his tormented slumber, a labored scream bounced off and back around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his mind. Uneasiness holding him tight, Siorc rose from the uncomfortable bed. Heart beating unevenly in his chest, a horrifying thought played on repeat in his partially human brain. Her Majesty, was she disappointed in him? Taking a deep breath to clam down his raging heartbeat within, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he headed for his uniform drawers, the chimera had figured his temporary uniform would be the correct one for the day at hand. Knowing another workday in the Electro Nation of Eternity awaited him, the soldier took another quick deep breath. Purple Inazuman outfit in his hands, the young soldier steeled himself.

As he removed the usual black undershirt, the punishment scene from a no longer calculable time prior flashed within the chimera's mind. The punishment, no matter how much time had passed or stood still, it would not leave the early adult be. But, he knew he had to shake it off, time was not a virtue within the military barracks.

Untying the ribbons on the first layer of his temporary uniform, the shirt and his body had met. Ribbon tied on, the second layer had melted onto his partially human person. Placing his possible human rear on the icy cold floor, his usual pants had been removed within moments. Dark violet pants soon settling onto his currently human legs, the hyena flinched. Whatever the pants were made of was still not a material he could ever get used to. But, he knew he could not voice complaints. The water could still be hot between Her Majesty and the chimera.

Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, the young soldier clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. He knew, not matter what, he had to work harder. His life would be over if any amount of disappointment reached Her Majesty's royal ears.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increase in volume, the early adult put on his most diplomatic face possible. Any moment now, his subordinate would relay his orders to him. Taking a third and final deep breath, the work mode switch had flipped on inside him. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his mundane workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You are going to Seirai Island to collect materials, and put down lightning rods for Her Majesty today." In his hand had been a sheet of paper shaking about rigorously. "These are the materials she is requesting of you. Read it quickly." Placing the paper in his subordinate's hand, he gave unseen eye contact to his commander in arms. Seirai Island should be clear of hazards for the Fatui.

Paper in front of him, the soldier read the words in a careful manner. Screaming at him in Snezhnayan had been various materials. Being instructed to collect some Chaos Gears, Chaos Axis, and a couple Chaos Oculi, the hyena let out a sigh. Was he fighting machines again? He supposed such could not be helped, if such were the case. But, the chaos materials had not been the only materials listed on the paper.

Seeing the words Storm Beads listed below the machine parts, the soldier tilted his head. What could Storm Beads have possibly been? The hyena did not know, but he knew no questions could leave his lips. Seeing no more materials on the paper, he returned his attention to the Agent.

"Yes, sir," he responded autonomously. Knowing he had to be ready as swift as possible, the hyena held his arm out.

Seeing the soldier hold his arm out, the Agent slammed a satchel on his subordinate's back. Bag being as straight as a line, he returned his attention to the soldier in a split second. "Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm being held out, he gripped the limb tight enough to bruise. "There is a Claymore inside the bag. Make sure you use it."

As the escort to Seirai Island began, the hyena closed his eyes. Gripping prison was relentless as it had always been. Bag feeling heavy from behind him, the weight had made its roar known to him. Knowing he had to collect machine parts again, the bag's weight would triple as the day went on, surely. As the teleportation had begun, a quick thought rolled pebbles around in his partially human mind.

What battles awaited him within Inazuma today?

***

"Bestowed upon me, this Claymore,
As I look at it, I feel as sense of unease. As I
Look at it, something is screaming.
Every time I look at the hilt,
The orb embedded within,
Haunts me. It is laughing.
Undeniably, the dark orb, it is a delusion.
Now, I must proceed with caution.
Delusions drain life energy.
Even now I recall what my practice partner, told me.
Really, I must proceed with caution. This orb, it could kill me."

Upon arriving at Seirai Island through the Teleport Waypoint, an odd black stone had been gifted to the early adult. Being instructed to hook it to his uniform, the young soldier did as commanded of him. But, such orders were not the only ones at his constantly transforming hands. Being instructed to open his proxy map, the hyena opened up the orb into map form. Being told to place pins in areas known as Fort Hiraumi, Koseki Village, Asase Shrine, and Amakumo Peak, the chimera did as instructed.

Being told his proxy map would show where to put the lightning rods, the hyena dissipated the map back into orb form. Knowing he would need the mini-map on constant display, the soldier hooked the orb onto his temporary uniform pants. Everything being completed, the Agent had vanished within an instant. Subordinate no longer being around, the hyena allowed a sigh to escape the throat. He was to do the job within Seirai Island alone again. Being used to dealing with such work alone, the man examined the area around him.

Before him had been a small hillside. But, an oddity had presented itself as the chimera examined the small hill in front of him. The grass had been tinted a shade of blue rather than green. Why had Inazuma's grass been so many odd colors? The hyena did not know, but he supposed it did not matter. Off into the distance had been large purple mountains gaping into the sky. Had the mountains been Amakumo Peak? The soldier supposed he would find out in due time. But, such oddities had not been the only ones.

Tilting his head upward had been a horrifying sight to behold. Swelling in the clouds had been a large purple storm cloud crackling with thunder. Seeing lightning drop out every minute or so, the hyena let out a nervous gulp. If any lightning were to strike him, he would be out of order within an instant. Danger around every corner, the early adult turned his heelless shoes towards the opposite direction.

Icon appearing on his orb towards a small grass field with white flowers, the soldier removed the bag from behind his back. Cover of the satchel removed, the hyena stared at the contents within. The lightning rods were black, and shaped like a tiny sword. Would such object truly be able to absorb the Electro Archon's anger? He supposed the question would never have an answer. Placing the first lightning rod down, the chimera kept walking.

Purple trees within every centimeter of him, the hyena rolled his eyes to the stormy sky. He was getting quite sick of seeing such a color. Drowning the trees out, the chimera kept his mind on the objective at hand. Her Majesty could be watching him from anywhere in Teyvat.

Sandy road soon upon him, the chimera walked towards the west side. Second icon appearing on his map, the soldier placed the lightning rod into the grass. Another lightning rod soon placed by odd pink springing plants, the hyena kept an eye on the proxy orb mini-map below his belt. No icons appearing for a short while, the hyena kept his head looking forward.

Seeing various odd looking pink fruits as he kept walking, the soldier let out a disgusted sigh. Was he about to live the wrath of pink and purple for the entire day? The Electro Archon was a colorful beast of burden. Icon appearing on his map near another small grass patch in between the sandy road, the chimera removed another lightning rod from the satchel. Rod placed near two arrows, the early adult looked towards the distance.

In the distance looked to be a small cliffside. Knowing climbing had to have been a possibility, sweat formed at the hyena's brow. He supposed if he had to climb, nothing could be done about it. Koseki Village being a far distance away, the young soldier kept walking straight.

Next icon on his map pointing him towards a small hillside, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. But, such sprint was halted within seconds. On the edge of the hill had been a samurai adorning purple armor. If the samurai were to spot him, danger would come to him, for sure. Fear about to fog his glasses, the hyena removed the next lightning rod from the bag behind him. Fourth lightning rod placed, the early adult's currently human legs had returned to a sprint.

Small body of water in front of him, Siorc let out a gulp. If he were to stray too far out in the water, drowning would occur, for certain. Ending his sprint, the hyena remained on the sandy path as much as his human legs would allow. Other side of the lake eventually reached through the sand, the next icon beamed on the orb.

Small tree with very few leaves sitting near an abandoned stone that might have once been a monument, the soldier removed the next lightning rod from the bag. Rod placed near the tree, the hyena proceeded to the next location with heeded caution.

Sand beneath his feet again, the soldier kept walking. No icons beaming on his map for the moment, the hyena kept his bespectacled eyes opened. Odd stones tinted with a gold light, and strange door with electricity propping out of it, the hyena had wondered: would he need to solve any puzzles as he kept moving forward? But, such future puzzles were not the only obstacle to avoid.

Around the odd stones on the floor had been various Treasure Hoarders. Knowing if the criminals had spotted him, even for a moment, a battle would begin, the early adult dropped his feet into a tiptoe. Criminals not noticing him, no damage had been dealt to his partially human person.

Eventually coming across a tall woman Fatui in a blue outfit stamping her feet, the hyena removed a lightning rod from the satchel. Mirror Maiden rushing him with a fervor, sweat had formed on the soldier's back. Her Majesty's Fatui were as impatient as they had always been. Rod dropped down, the chimera headed towards the north.

Second Mirror Maiden stamping her boots as he walked forward, the hyena placed down the next lightning rod with post-haste. Inazuma stationed Fatui telling him he was too slow, fear nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. Her Majesty, if she were listening to the conversation, his life would be over, for sure. Every single lightning rod in the Fort Hiarumi area deployed, the soldier headed towards the village.

Stone staircase soon upon him, the hyena ascended. Wooden houses within his field of vision, as well as oddly lit up panels, the chimera proceeded with caution. Eventually reaching the end of row of houses, another terrifying sight was before him. Treasure Hoarders walking in a straight line, the early adult held in a gasp. Just what were the criminals up to? He knew that sometimes, Fatui and Treasurer Hoarders worked together. Could such have been the current situation at hand? Whatever business the other faction had was no business of his, he supposed.

Reaching a small hill with more blue grass, the hyena dropped down another lightning rod. Edge of the hill's grass looking purple, the chimera peered at the sky above him. The purple storm cloud in the sky, had more lightning been raging about? More caution would have to be exercised, if more lightning were to strike about. Rod solidified into the hill, the chimera's legs had erupted into a sprint.

Wooden bridge in front of him, the chimera returned to walking within seconds. Bridges often being broken within Inazuma, running was not an option. Small gap in the wooden bridge, the early adult jumped forward. Gap hopped over, the hyena kept walking straight.

Multiple kittens sitting upon rocks, a sudden urge had overcome the hyena. Feeling the itch to pet them, the chimera's currently human hand had been sprawled outward. But, he knew with Fatui around, petting the kittens was not possible, in the slightest. Petting the kittens being outside his reach, the young soldier headed towards the camp off into the distance.

Fatui gunmen and vanguard looking ready to shoot him, the hyena grabbed the lightning rod as fast as his hands would allow. Rod dropped down near the Fatui camp, the early adult ran from the camp at the speed of a wildcat speeding through the wilderness of Sumeru. He had to keep working. Harder, stronger; faster. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.

Gate surrounded by kittens with orange fur, the soldier kept resisting his urges. Small damp area soaking his heelless shoes, the hyena proceeded with caution. Reaching another gate within ten minutes, the urge grew. More kittens standing by a stone staircase, the early adult closed his eyes for a moment. Urge to pet the cats in the area decreasing, the soldier ascended the staircase.

Shrine off into the distance, the soldier lowered his walk into a tiptoe. Placing a lightning rod near a stone tied up with a rope, the only rod that needed to be placed within the area had been deployed. Feeling a small wave of fatigue hit him, the hyena supposed one quick twenty minute break could be allowed. Although, as he headed towards the head of the shrine, an unfortunate familiar sight had stained his damaged field of vision.

Standing near the head of the large shrine building had been the two obstacles from the day before. Seeing a sketchbook in the ram chimera's hands, the soldier let out a sigh. Why had the ram chimera and goat chimera always been everywhere he was? Coincidences were quite the scary phenomenon. However, the party of two had yet again been joined by another member.

Standing in between the part of two had been a tall man around the same height as the ram chimera. The tall man had blonde spiky hair tied into a low ponytail behind him. Black headband that looked like flames poking through the front of his hair, the hyena stepped four steps backward. Had the man been a wielder of the horrifying Vision of Pyro? If such were the case, he needed to proceed with caution. Light green eyes looking kind, the soldier had been hit with a sense of confusion. The blonde, was he from another nation? Something about his aura did not match the rest of the nation. Black shirt with arm guards and red vest, Siorc looked at the rest of outfit for a moment. Red looking drape covering his black pants, and enormous brown boots covering every inch of his skin, the man ended his examination.

Party of three looking deep in conversation, the resting soldier waited. The shrine was a public are anyone could use. He suppose he could wait his turn to observe the area before returning to work. Interrupting any sort of conversation was a rude and unforgivable action, for sure.

"Thank you for coming here with us, -----!" Rede said to the blond. "Neko says she wants scarves for all the kittens that reside here at the shrine." But, another voice had soon joined the battle.

"A talking cat, I can't believe it!" Tegne screamed explosively. "I'm going to draw you while you look at the kittens, by the way!"

Ram chimera screaming at the top of his lungs, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Why had he always insisted on screaming? There had to have been other ways to communicate than raising his voice. Group of three looking busy, he supposed it was his time to leave the area. But, an unavoidable thought shot a sniper within the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

The location of where Storm Beads could be collected, just where was it? Not being told by the Agent where such objects could be obtained, he knew asking where to obtain them had to come into fruition. Figuring the conversation would wrap up after some time had passed, the soldier sat down on the shrine ground. Conversation continuing, the hyena turned his head to the left.

"Of course, happy to help!" the blond said to Rede.

Party of three stepping out of the shrine, the chimera stood up. Tall blond crouching towards the ground and measuring the kittens, the hyena walked towards the shrine booth in the corner. Black cat talking about how not many visitors had ever come by, the hyena remained calm. Reading in one of his father's books that some beasts took on the form of animals, and could speak like them, a talking cat was not terrifying in the slightest.

Party of three walking around for awhile, the boomerang had soon returned to the starting point. Goat chimera looking straight at him, the hyena made eye contact. Was he in the way of the group's kitten measuring heist? If such were the case, he would move out of the way. Goat looking ready to speak, the hyena kept his eyes on the tall man.

"Oh, it's the kid!" Rede exclaimed. "Are we in the way again? We'll move."

Goat chimera saying the line he always had, Siorc shook his head. For once, the party of three had not been in his way. The goat, ram, and the blond, had the three of them known where to collect Storm Beads? Waiting for the goat chimera to speak again, the hyena kept his eyes forward. Goat placing his hand on his chin, a question echoed throughout the shrine.

"Do you need something?" Rede asked. "We can try to help, if you'd like."

Knowing a verbal answer could not come of him, the hyena placed his hands out in front. Pointing his index fingers downward, he continued to look into the goat's eyes. Lightning storm signed on holy display, the chimera moved onto the next sign. Forming his left hand into an okay symbol, the soldier moved his hand around his neck, for a moment. Bead signed as well, the chimera waited, for a moment.

Goat looking at him with an extremely bewildered look, the chimera's face soon had a dejected look on it. Had his wordless language not gotten through to him? He knew not everyone understood, or cared to learn the language of signs and gestures. But, he knew he still could not ask directly. Questions were not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier.

"Tegne, could you take out a page from your sketchbook?" Rede asked Tegne, voice stern. He then turned to Siorc. "I apologize, kid, I unfortunately don't understand what you're saying."

Ram chimera raising his leg upward, the hyena readied himself to cover his ears. Was he about to scream towards the stormy skies again? No matter how many times he were to run into the party of two, the ram was always the more aggravating of the duo. But, he knew he could never say such. Calling a person annoying was absolutely rude.

"Alright, fine!" Tegne shouted at the top of his lungs. Tearing a sheet of paper out of his sketchbook, the sheet had been placed in his hand. Feather quilled pen in the opposite hand, he pushed the paper forward. "Here you go, kid."

Quill and paper in hand, Siorc wrote down the inquiry about where Storm Beads could be obtained on the sheet of drawing paper. Words written in the Mondstadt language, the hyena let out a gulp. Would the two of them be able to read the words on the paper? Not knowing how to write in Inazuman, a language barrier was about to crash down on him, for sure.

Handing the paper and pen back to the ram chimera, the the hyena closed his eyes for a moment. Party of three looking at one another, fear had begun to take shape like water. But such fear was misplaced. Goat looking ready to ask more questions, the chimera looked straight into the goat's eyes.

"You're heading to the peak?" the blond asked, concerned. "Be careful!"

As the chimera nodded, the ram raised his leg upward. Knowing yet another scream awaited the shrine, the hyena covered his ears. Couldn't the ram ever not say anything that wasn't bombastically loud? Loud people were a foreigner within the world of quiet.

"Wait an Archon flipping minute!" Tegne screamed explosively. "You don't have a vision! You can't fight that bat monster by yourself!" Green orb flashing behind him, he waved his fists about. But a second voice would again join the battle within seconds.

"We'll meet you at the peak in an hour or two," Rede responded sweetly. "The two of us will help you."

Help being offered his way, the chimera mouthed a thank you. Having enough information to go on, the hyena unhooked the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb from his pants. Opening the orb into map form, the young soldier examined the Serai Island portion of the map with due diligence. Amakumo Peak being on the opposite side, the early adult tilted his head at the circle towards the peak.

Towards the highest point within the map had been a purple circle that looked like a monster. Had such circle been the monster bat the ram chimera meant? He supposed he would see when he were to arrive at the topmost area. Knowing he still had lightning rods to drop down, and machine parts to obtain, however, other matters had to be attended to.

Turning his heelless shoes in the opposite direction, the chimera exited the shrine. Taking note the easiest way to reach the peak was back towards the Fort Hiarumi area, the hyena knew he had to head towards the peak area with haste. Stormy atmosphere soon returning as he left the shrine, the early adult turned his attention to the sky above him. The purple storm cloud, was the Asase Shrine immune to the constant storms of thunder?

Lightning bouncing off his uniform and diverting down to the ground, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. He supposed being protected from the Electro Archon's thunder and lightning via Her Majesty's uniforms was one perk he did not mind in his forced upon life.

Every single gateway crossed, the sandy ground had soon crunched underneath his feet once again. Proxy orb on his belt showing a thin pathway to the lower area of the peak, the early adult sprinted through the water as fast as his currently human legs would allow. But, a sound soon echoed through the area.

Hearing the sound of a machine activating, the hyena knew the time had come to engage in battle. Opening the satchel from behind him, the soldier grabbed the greatsword within seconds. Large silver claymore with a black metallic topside, the early adult placed the weapon within his two hands, but a sinister object stared at him as the claymore sat in his two hands.

Sitting within the black area had been a dark blue orb of sinister proportions. The dark blue orb laced into the sword; there was no doubt in his partially human mind. The claymore could not be anything but one of Her Majesty's Delusion laced weapons. Knowing from his practice partner Delusions drained life energy, a sense of dread took over the hyena. But, he knew he had to snap out of it.

Machines looking similar to sea creatures for whatever reason, the hyena changed his legs into a fighting stance. As he readied himself for his energy to be sapped away, the sound of more machines activated rustled on the thunderous air. Three machines surrounding him, the chimera prepared himself.

As he swung the greatsword about, dark sinister waters surrounded the soldier. Aquatic projectiles spinning about in a circle, the water had soon formed into a torrent. Water shooting as though it were a gun, the machine that looked like a sea creature had begun to spark. Water halting for a moment, the chimera administered four slashes to the first machine. Machine parts soon dropping, the early adult turned to the other two machines.

Second machine acting like some sort of large arachnid crawling around, the hyena switched the stance of his legs. Slashing the monster with his temporary claymore, slight damage had been dealt to the odd mechanical creature. But the physical slashes had not been enough. Torrents of water surrounding him as if they had read his mind, the sea of sinister aquatic projectiles struck the second machine. Monster soon sparking, the machine had soon been in pieces. More machine parts soon dropping, the soldier turned to the last machine creature.

Third machine acting like it could fly, the chimera backed ten steps back. Would spinning around with the greatsword do more damage? The hyena supposed it was worth a shot. Spinning like a certain battle top from another world, many furious blows had been dealt to the flying machine. Stamina quickly used up from such attack, the soldier stopped the spinning attack after about a minute.

Flying machine not looking as though it had been finished, the hyena let out a tired sigh. Was he going to have to rely on Her Majesty's sinister tool once again? He supposed it could not be helped, not having a Vision. Aquatic projectiles soon surrounding the machines, sparks had soon flew around the flying machine creature. Machine crashing down to the ground, more materials had been dropped to the ground.

Black aura soon surrounding the hyena, a pillar of darkness formed a shield around him. Black aura shielding the effects of the delusion, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Even if the jewel on his temporary uniform had protected him from the life draining energy Delusions contained, usage of the sinister orb was still an absolutely tiring ordeal.

Items with a white, blue and green aura on the ground, the soldier picked up the materials. Placing the greatsword back into the satchel, the chimera scooped up the Chaos Gears, Chaos Axis and singular Chaos Oculus into his hands. Dropping the machine parts into the satchel, the time had come to resume dropping down lightning rods. Seeing multiple still in the bag, the job had not been quite finished yet.

Icon on his mini map beaming near a sea of purple grass, the hyena slammed down the first lightning rod of the area. But the first icon had soon been joined by two. Icon on the orb pointing towards one of the pink fruits, a second lightning rod had been placed into the ground. Hearing the lightning roar even stronger than before, the battle had only just begun.

No more icons in the current area, the soldier stepped onto the sandy ground. Odd purple plants still within every inch of the even stranger light violet grass, the hyena almost let out a grunt. Why did the Archon love the color purple so much? The answer was a mystery to him. Small exclamation icon soon appearing on the orb on his belt, the early adult stepped back into the grass.

Third lightning rod placed by an abandoned boat, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. Samurai patrolling the area, the chimera almost let out a loud yelp. If the samurai had spotted him, their blades would slash him down in an instant. Samurai soon exiting the area, the chimera continued walking.

Next icon on the mini map leading him to a rock with wretched purple all over it, the hyena placed down the fourth next lightning rod. Black rod instantly absorbing the excess thunder in the area, the chimera stepped back onto the sandy road before him. Although, the step onto the terrain of Geo creation had been short lived.

Having to place another lightning rod next to the wretched purple weeds, the black rod of insulation had been slammed into the ground. Nothing else beaming on the orb, the soldier headed slightly towards the southeast direction. Soon seeing another tree with almost no leaves, the hyena removed another lightning rod. Thunder getting stronger, the hyena looked upward.

The purple storm cloud, had it been getting worse? The chimera did not know, but he had to keep walking. Stepping back onto the sandy road, the hyena stared off at the distance, for a moment. Off in the distance had been a rather broken looking mountainside with a disconnected rock formation. The broken rock formation off into the sky, had that been where the peak was? If the peak had indeed been there, climbing up to such area was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Finishing his examination, the early adult kept walking.

As the soldier crossed over back onto the grass, a small wooden shrine had graced the hyena's damaged field of heterochromatic vision. Stopping his movement for a minute, the early adult placed his hands into a praying position. No matter what god the shrine belonged to, respects deserved to be paid to them. Respects paid in full, the chimera returned to the work at hand.

Icon pointing towards a destroyed ship, the chimera removed the next lightning rod from the back of him. Slamming down the rod of insulation, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. Placing another lightning rod next to the tall purple weeds, the early adult continued his sprint. Next lightning rod slammed near another set of pink fruits situated by an out of place rock, the young soldier examined the orb for a moment. Two more exclamation points in the area, the man stayed within the grass.

Rock surrounded by three sets of plants with pink fruit on them, the chimera place the lightning rod on the ground. Lightning shooting from the sky as he placed the tool of insulation, the electricity bounced off his temporary uniform. Next rod of insulation placed in a similar fashion, the hyena stepped back onto the sand. Sand cutting off into water for a second, his heelless shoes had begun to get drenched.

Walking like a crab to avoid the water, the next area had been reached at a slower rate. Next icon beaming on the orb map, the soldier walked sideways towards the returning sandy area. Placing another black rod of insulation next to a sea of purple weeds, the hyena headed towards the eastward side. Another exclamation point soon appearing within the proxy orb, the chimera readied to place the next rod.

Grey tree with a large rhinoceros beetle sitting on the bark, the next lightning rod had been slammed down into the ground. Noting the beetle had been the same wretched color the Inazuma Archon loved, the soldier turned his head in disgust. When will the shades of combined red and blue disappear? Tuning the colors out, the hyena kept walking.

Placing down multiple lightning rods near many of the stems of pink fruit, a wave of tiredness had begun to roar inside the chimera. But, he knew he had to keep working. The choice was not his if we wished to keep on living. As he headed north into the sea of purple grass, an odd device with a violet prism inside it glared daggers at the hyena. The device looked like a mechanical tree. What purpose did the mechanical tree serve? The young soldier was none the wiser to Inazuma's technology.

Placing another set of lightning rods down near the familiar pink fruits, the chimera recalled something. Her Majesty, she definitely would want more machine parts. Placing one final lightning rod onto the starting point of the purple rocks of the heightened peak, the soldier stepped towards the right. Water even beginning to look purple, the early adult let out a grunt.

He was getting tired of seeing purple. Quite the wretched color.

Narrow pathway leading to small stone podiums glowing a gold color, Siorc examined the spot, for a moment. Hearing the sound of machines activating, the delusion laced claymore had been in the chimera's currently human hands. Two machine monsters acting like arachnids, a torrent of black waters engulfed the hyena. Monsters sparking after a few minutes from the water of delusional creation, machine parts had soon dropped.

Black aura absorbing the life draining energy, the hyena picked up the machine parts. Items glowing a green and blue aura, the second defeats of the day made their roar known around Seirai Island. Feeling another wave of fatigue soon hit him, the early adult took a long deep breath. Despite the black jewel absorbing the life stealing energy, the use of Delusions was tiring, nonetheless.

Seeing another set of machine monsters roaming around in the distance, the chimera rushed over to the next location with haste. First machine monster floating above the ground near an odd door, sinister waters and the machine had met. Machine parts dropping to the ground, the hyena walked towards the next machine creature.

Another machine monster crawling about like an arachnid, a torrent of black water engulfed the soldier. Sparks flying within seconds, the hyena placed the greatsword down for a moment. The Delusion within the claymore, would it take over his mind like it had done so inside the Fatui domain a year or so prior? The hyena knew if he kept using the power of sinister creation such outcome could happen. Slashing the weapon forward, less damage had been dealt.

After about thirty or so slashes, sparks had begun to fly on the second machine monster. Third and fourth monster soon surrounding the tiny adult, the chimera let out a tired sigh. He supposed he had no choice but the use the delusion laced within the claymore. Not having enough power of his own, such was the only option that remained. Two machine creatures dropping like Cicins within seconds, the hyena grabbed the machine parts littering the ground.

Black aura once again surrounding him, the life draining energy had been removed. But, the fatigue would not cease, even for a moment. Figuring one or two more machine parts could be the last ones he needed, the soldier searched the area at hand. Coming across a set of two machine monsters towards another golden lit floor, the greatsword had been swung.

Physical attacks still barely doing their job, sinister waters had once again defeated the group of three machine monsters. Items collected into the bag, the hyena could feel the fatigue begin to eat away at him. Black aura surrounding him for what felt like the tenth time, the hyena closed his eyes for a moment. But, he knew the job was not finished yet.

Recalling he still had to get Storm Beads, the hyena opened up the proxy orb into map form. Seeing a waypoint close towards the bat, the hyena highlighted the waypoint within seconds. As the teleportation to the height of the peak began, the chimera closed his eyes as the fast travel had begun.

Only one more fight remained.

***

"This Delusion laced weapon,
How could it make me so tired? Is the black aura not working?
Unless this is all a lie,
No matter how many times the black aura surrounds me,
Delusions are still tiring.
Every time I use it,
Rebound of tiredness engulf me.
Is the sinister orb still stealing my life energy?
No matter how many time I use it,
Great amounts of energy are leaving me.

Maybe I'm just not strong enough,
After all I do not have a Vision.
No matter how many times I use it,
It is slowly beginning to eat me.
Fatui raised in Snezhnaya, just what are they
Eating? How are they this strong?
Stronger than the gods,
The world is a mystery.
All and all, I need to keep going.
This is the final battle for the day.
I need to keep going, I need to keep fighting.
Or Her Majesty will kill me.
No time for rest, I have to keep fighting. The choice is not mine."

Teleport Waypoint placing him onto an extremely high area, the soldier allowed a gulp to echo on the thunder. Tegne and Rede standing about waiting, bewilderment ate the hyena like Sakura Mochi. How had the goat and ram chimeras climbed all the way up towards highest point of the peak? Goats were able to scale large mountains, indeed.

Group of two turning towards him, the soldier made eye contact. Goat and ram not looking tired at all, the hyena's eyes opened wide. The goat and ram had to have been more powerful than any of Her Majesty's thousands of Fatui combined. Seeing the goat place his hand upon his chin, a conversation was about to be at hand.

"Ah, there you are," Rede said, high energy in his voice. "Could you touch that purple tree over there?" Pointing at the odd Inazuman device, his golden eyes almost sparkled.

Doing as instructed, an electric prism surrounded the soldier and the party of two. Waves of electricity zapping him towards a circular dome with pulsing electricity in the center, the soldier stepped forward. Tegne and Rede following behind him, the group of three entered the pulse of electricity together.

Sword, polearm and claymore entering the battlefield as a large purple bat awakened, the battle had soon begun. One eyed purple bat soaring to the sky, the monster dropped rods of electricity onto the brown field. Electricity shooting from the sky and down towards the ground for many seconds, the goat chimera shifted his feet first.

"Seed explosion!" Rede shouted.

Seeds shooting in a rapid fire like an attack in a world full of nine hundred plus cute creatures, the bat had been locked onto. Seeds continuing to launch as though they were bullets, the bat of electricity had taken a small dent of damage. Attack ending, Tegne shifted his legs next.

"Sword of leaves, slash of nature!" Tegne shouted at the top of his lungs.

Swarm of leaves combining with his sword, the ram chimera lunged forward. Electro and Dendro shaking hands, a small explosion had soon made rounds on the battlefield. Leaves wilting off the sword after about fifteen seconds, the attack had finished. But, such had not been enough to defeat the monster.

Small waves of electricity jolting in the form of a box, the three had been zapped for a momentary amount of time. Feeling the brunt of the attack, the soldier clicked his tongue. But, he knew he could not let the ram and goat do all the work. Shifting his currently human legs into a fighting position, the hyena was ready for the sinister orb to do its terrifying duty.

Torrent of darks waters soon surrounding him, the projectiles soon surrounded the electric bat. Electro and delusional Hydro meeting, conducted electricity made its rounds known on the battlefield. Although, such had not been enough to deter the monster yet again. Clapping its wings about, electricity had formed a box around the creature.

Feeling another wave of tiredness engulf him, the soldier closed his eyes for a split second. Shaking his head, the chimera slapped his cheeks. Now, of all times was not the time to be fatigued. Black aura engulfing him for a moment, the life draining energy had been dispelled. Knowing another attack had to come soon, the soldier shifted his feet.

Seeing the goat and ram chimera's visions glowing at their brightest, the hyena slashed the greatsword forward. Physical attacks not doing any amount of major damage, sweat had formed on the early adult's brow. Attacking was not his strong suit, in the slightest.

Feeling an overwhelming amount of energy flow through him, Rede placed his hand on his heart. Power of Dendro rooted into his very core, his power had been at its highest possible capacity. The time had come for his ultimate attack amongst his lower skilled ones.

"Yggdrasil! I answer only to you!" Rede shouted at the top of his lungs.

Large tree with veins popping out of the ground, large amounts of energy had been sapped from the electric bat. Tree staying upon the battlefield for a long twenty seconds, the roots of the tree drunk the electricity like a glass of water. Tree disappearing after the attack was finished, a weak spot had been created.

Feeling an overwhelming amount of energy as well, Tegne rose his left leg upward. Energy at its maximum, the ram chimera broke out into a dance. Barrage of leaves surrounding him in a flurry, a scream had soon been at the tip of his throat within a matter of seconds.

"This artist dances with the leaves!" Tegne shouted at the top of his lungs.

Blizzard of leaves hitting the bat monster like a snowstorm, Tegne broke into a dance. Leaves continuing their barrage for almost fifteen seconds, Electro and Dendro had collided in a spectacular manner. Bat looking almost paralyzed, the party of two turned to the hyena.

"It's almost down, kid!" Rede exclaimed. "Give it the final blow!" Slashing his polearm forward, more damage had been dealt as he spoke. But, another voice had soon joined the battlefield.

"You can do it, kid!" Tegne shouted, as well. "Use your claymore and send the bat back to bed!"

Encouragement thrown his way, the hyena could feel a small amount of energy return to him. Concentrating all is power, a torrent of black waters soon surrounded him. Feeling like he had enough for one more, another torrent joined the first one. Projectiles forming into a black tidal wave, the dark waters and the bat met. Static electricity building up faster than his mismatched eyes could follow, the purple monster soon faded into nothingness.

Odd flower sprouting up from the ground, the soldier's eyes had begun to get fuzzy. World beginning to spin slightly, the chimera's body and the battlefield had met. Feeling an overwhelming amount of energy leave his body, the soldier closed his eyes. Sound fading out as the seconds unraveled, he could feel his consciousness begin to slip away at a rapid pace.

Not able to hear the screams in the background, the world of blackness had engulfed the soldier within seconds. As his consciousness slipped away faster, a muffled thought entered his fading mindscape.

Delusions were sinister, indeed.

***

"Her Majesty, she's going to be disappointed in me.
Your Majesty, I am sorry, please have mercy.
Don't kill me, please I am sorry.
Really, I am sorry, the delusion, the
Orb, it was merely too much for me. Please

Don't kill me, I'm trying my best, I'm serving you to the best of my ability.
Even so, I am sorry, please spare me.
Looks like that dream I had is truly affecting me.
Ultimately, it is eating me.
So please, if you are watching, Your Majesty,
I am sorry, please, don't kill me.
Once more, I'll work harder.
No matter what, I will keep working. So, please, don't kill me. Don't be disappointed in me."

Upon coming to a few hours later, the chimera had found himself in an area unknown to him. Odd looking blankets wrapped around him, the soldier gazed the area around him. Glasses being removed, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Still feeling barely any energy within him, the hyena kept his head movement to a minimum. Around him had been an odd looking brown floor he had never seen before, and dark purple curtains embroidered with gold. Seeing lamps shaped like shrines in a small distance away, and a large symbol with the same golden embroidery, the man placed his arm over his face. Just where had he been taken? If he had been captured by someone, his life would be over, for sure.

Ram and goat chimera soon running towards him with a young woman covering her face with a fan, the soldier lifted his body upward. Still feeling an extreme amount of fatigue, no words had escaped the chimera's lips. Ram looking as though he was about to shout, the hyena was about to cover his ears, but a disturbing feeling had soon entered his veins.

His hairpins and earrings, he could not feel their presence anywhere on him. Ears being empty and with no jewelry, an instant wave of unease had dropped a bomb on him. Had someone confiscated his precious jewelry and accessories while he laid unconscious? Knowing such had to have been the case, the bomb of unease's fuse had been lit. Goat and ram chimera looking over at him, the bomb had exploded.

"Thank the Archons you're awake!" Tegne exclaimed, worry evident in his voice. "What in all of Archon's name was wrong with that sword you used?!"

Young woman soon approaching, the soldier put his glasses over his heterochromatic eyes. Having barely any energy remaining, the hyena made his examination quick. Coming over to him had been a young woman who had looked slightly taller than him. Light blue hair swept back into a high ponytail, and red ribbons on the front side, the chimera briefly looked at her eyes. Grey eyes looking soft, and a dark blue kimono plated with armor, the early adult ended his examination.

"Oh, thank goodness you've come to," the young woman said. "Would you like some tea?"

Feeling no amount of energy to argue, the hyena simply nodded. Young woman stepping away for a few moments, the soldier stared off in a fatigued silence. Goat chimera locking eyes with him, the chimera let out an exhausted sigh. What more could the party of two possibly have to say to him? But, he knew he had no choice anymore but to listen.

"You look rather troubled over something," Rede bemused, hand on his chin. "You don't have to worry. We put the Storm Beads into your satchel."

Hearing Rede state the materials had been placed into his satchel, the soldier could feel a small amount of relief. But such feelings had been short lived. Still not knowing the whereabouts of his hairpins and earrings, the hyena pointed to his hair and ears. Would this work? Not having the energy to verbally ask, pointing was all the man could muster.

Goat chimera soon scratching his chin, the hyena could feel a wave of defeat break him. Did he not understand him in the slightest? He supposed, no matter what the circumstances, wordless language would always fail in certain situations. But, his assumption was soon proven false within a matter of seconds.

"Are you asking about your earrings, kid?" Rede asked in a quizzical tone. "We put those in your satchel as well. We didn't want them getting scuffed up."

Hairpin and earring captor confirmed, the chimera could feel his eyes begin to water. Why had someone other than him removed his hairpins and earrings? What a heinous act of villainy. While such thought had entered his mindscape, the chimera let out an exhausted sigh. Whatever happened while he laid unconscious was completely outside his control. Brief thoughts of anger vanishing within him, the hyena said nothing to the hairpin captor.

"See, I told you he wouldn't like that!" Tegne screamed explosively. "But, no! You just wouldn't listen to me, Rede!"

Hearing Tegne's shouts, the hyena almost mouthed a thank you. Despite how aggravating and loud the chimera had been, at least he had a slight amount of reason within him. Tea soon placed into his hands after about ten minutes, the soldier looked into the young woman's eyes.

As he sipped the tea, the young woman looked as though she had something to ask him. What could it possibly have been the stranger had wanted. He supposed waiting for her to ask could not hurt. Young woman looking ready to speak, the hyena placed the teacup down for a moment.

"My apologies, I could not help but overhear your conversation earlier," the young woman said. Her voice was graceful and feminine. "If I dare so ask, may I take a look at that blade Tegne inquired about? I would like to take a look at it."

Not having enough energy to open his satchel, the chimera looked Tegne in the eyes. Horned man pointing at himself, the hyena placed his hands parallel to another. Clapping his hands together, the early adult flapped his right hand open as though he was opening a bag. Would this work? He knew his gestures had not been the correct sign for the word bag.

Ram chimera opening the bag, the sinister claymore had been in his two human hands. Placing the blade into the young woman's hands, as well, she studied the blade in a careful manner. Feeling the greatsword with her hands, the hyena tilted his head. What was the young woman doing? Whatever it was, the chimera could feel a rush of bewilderment eat him like a plate of Tri-colored Dango. Examination wrapping up, she again looked into is mismatched eyes.

"This blade..." the young woman said, voice trailing off. "I can feel a sinister energy coming from within it." Returning the greatsword into Tegne's hands, her attention returned to the hyena. "I apologize if I am unfit to say this, but I do not think you should keep using this blade."

Knowing the young woman was right, the hyena weakly nodded. Taking notice the group of three had not uttered the word Delusion, the soldier could feel a wave of relief wash over him. Perhaps, just maybe, the group of three had not figured out his forced upon allegiance?

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.

Goat chimera scratching his chin, the hyena could feel a large amount of unease. Had Rede caught onto something? Witnessing how intelligent he was, nothing could have possibly escaped the man's brain. Knowing what question was about to grace him, the soldier awaited his fate of violent repercussions to grace his weakened body.

"You're one of the Fatui, aren't you?" Rede asked as he continued to scratch his chin. "Even though you don't want to be?"

Hearing the goat's question, the chimera's body had begun to shake in a relentless fervor. Being exposed to the entire private room, his heart had begun to beat rapidly in his chest. Was his life over? If the four winged general from the other day had heard of this, a jail cell would soon await him.

Ram chimera placing him back down into a lying position, the hyena's heart had begun to beat faster. The goat and ram chimera, were they about to grab the authorities? He knew he was an unwanted person within the closed off world of Inazuma. Leave, he had leave. He had to return to Snezhnaya. But, no such exit was possible. Seeing his dark purple coat hanging off to the side, teleporting away had been impossible. Ram chimera looking ready to speak, defeat blared its victory horn.

"Woah, woah, woah, kid! Why are you so excited?!" Tegne exclaimed in a frantic tone. "We're not going to kill you, or anything!" Another voice had soon joined the battlefield.

"We hold no ill will towards you or your affiliation, I promise," Rede chimed in. "Why don't you get some rest, for now?" A bombshell had then been revealed to the entire empty room. "Some tall man came by earlier and said to just send you back tomorrow. Don't fret, kid."

Multiple rounds of information fired at him all at once, Siorc closed his eyes. Fatigue overwhelming him, the world of sleep had almost took him away within an instant. As he drifted off into the world of tormented dreams, a thought played on repeat inside him.

Her Majesty would be disappointed in him.

***

"Knowing where I am now, I really need to leave.
All and all, Her Majesty, she's going to be disappointed in me.
Maybe that dream I had will be my reality.
If I lay here like this,
She's going to kill me, guaranteed.
As I lay here, I need to leave.
The Fatui, they'll hear about this, surely.
Of everything I've heard, the walls have

Ears. I know she can see me.
See my failures with the Delusion.
The weakness it has caused me.
After all, I'm her property, she's watching.
The world is falling.
Every chess piece has captured me, the checkmate has arrived."

Waking up the next morning was a surprise to behold. Agent within the building as he had awoken, a wave of fear had shackled chains around his body. His subordinate, was he going to tell Her Majesty he was no longer of use to her? But, such fear had almost immediately been dissipated.

Being told he had done good work, the soldier tilted his head. Had he been hearing things? His inhuman eardrums had to have been playing tricks on him. Hairpins and earrings returned to him, the Agent placed the satchel on his back. Being alerted Her Majesty had given him a day to recuperate, the chimera could feel bewilderment eat away at him. Had everything been a hallucination? Nothing at all felt real, in the slightest.

Agent soon leaving, the party of two soon returned within the room. Feeling another wave of fear shackle chains around him, the hyena made weak eye contact with the goat and ram. Whatever the two had to say at this point, he knew he had no choice but to listen.

"A doctor said to us that the black jewel on your uniform took a lot more energy from you than it should have," Rede explained with diligence. "We haven't a clue what that black jewel is, but they told us when color returns to your face, you can go back to where you came."

Hearing the goat chimera's words, the hyena flinched. Despite the Agent saying he had been given a day, he knew he had to leave. Lifting himself up, he knew he had to leave, return to Snezhnaya, return to his duties. Given a day or not, he knew another day of not working would make him reach his end.

Ram chimera soon holding him down, the hyena could feel a wave of desperation hit him. No matter what anyone said, he knew he had to leave. Everything everyone had said, none of it could have possibly been real. Everything had to have been playing tricks on him. Feeling words form inside him, the soldier motioned his lips to speak.

"Please, let go of me, sir," Siorc said, words labored. "I cannot stay here." But his words were futile.

Placed back down into a laying position, defeat had made its roar known in the area. Ram chimera looking ready to retaliate against his words, defeat had shot another sniper on the battlefield. He had no choice but sit and listen to group of two in front of him.

"Uh, hello, soldier!" Tegne exclaimed explosively. Various words had been exaggerated for emphasis. "We're not letting you go just yet!"

Being forced into a blanket prison, the soldier again closed his eyes. Hairpins and earrings confiscated once again, no amount of energy had remained within him. Sleep again taking him away, he supposed there was no fighting it. World of dreams again awaited him as the seconds became minutes, the chimera could feel himself fade away.

Waking up various hours later, an unfamiliar face had been in the corner of the room. Sitting by on the wooden tables had been a tall young man with light blue hair and purple eyes. White suit with long dangling sleeves, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Man doing a mountain of paperwork, a set of confused noises had accidentally released from the chimera's partially human throat. Had he been in the way? If such were the case, he would have to leave.

Tall important looking man staring at him, the soldier closed his eyes. Had his noises disturbed his work? He knew if such were the case, an apology had to be in order. Man looking ready to speak, the chimera looked the man into the man's eyes.

"Ah, you're the one my sister took in," the tall important man said. "Just a moment."

Doctor soon coming into the room, the chimera let out an exasperated sigh. No longer feeling tired, was anything about to happen necessary? But, he knew he had no choice but to cooperate. Heart instrument pressed against his chest, the soldier flinched. The metal center was as cold, and sterile as it had always been.

Being proclaimed stable, the hyena mouthed a thank you to the generic medical staff. The energy the black stone had taken, had it affected his damaged heart in some way? No one giving him any answers, a wave of distrust entered the early adult's partially human veins. Medical staff exiting the building, the chimera moved the odd blanket off of him. Folding the strange blanket up into a bundle, the chimera waited for the tall man to return. Knowing he could not leave without his uniform, the soldier remained patient.

Tall man returning with the outer layer of his temporary uniform, the chimera placed the dark purple outer layer back on him. Feeling his prized jewelry and accessories in the left pocket, the soldier left them in the cloth pits, for now. Everything tied together, the hyena pointed at the rolled up odd blanket. While pointing was rude, no words would escape his lips.

"The futon? My staff will come and fetch that for me," the tall important man replied. "I must return to my work now. If you are leaving, be well, young man."

Tall man exiting into a far off room, the soldier headed towards the exit. Not seeing the goat and ram chimera anywhere, the hyena allowed one final sigh escape the throat. If the two of them had already left, such was beyond the scope of his control. But, as he stepped outside, his thoughts had soon been mistaken.

Goat and ram chimera busy with their poetry and art in the corner of the building, the hyena proceeded with caution. While he knew interrupting an artist at work was a grave sin of rudeness, he knew a thank you had to have been in order for the party of two.

Party of two dropping their quilled pens for a moment, the soldier looked into the men's eyes. Party of two's attention on him, the wave of gratitude had flowed inside him. Would thanking the two of them for taking action despite his position come off as disingenuous? Siorc did not know, but manners mattered more than anything else. His parents had always told him to thank those who helped him, not matter who they were.

"Thank you for everything, sirs," the chimera said, voice barely audible. "Farewell." Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb in hand, he was ready to stage his exit.

Goat chimera giving him a sad smile, the soldier tilted his head. Why did Rede have such a somber look on his face? The writer and artist duo were quite the Inazuma odd balls. Ram chimera looking ready to scream to celestia, as well, the soldier halted his exit.

"No problem, fellow chimera," Rede responded, somber tone in voice. "Ah, apologies, I knew you were a chimera since the beginning. I just kept quiet about it." Fact thrown out in the open, he then waved a goodbye. "Farewell. Maybe we will meet again someday."

"Archons! Goodbyes are difficult!" Tegne screamed explosively. "But, um, see you later if you ever come back to Inazuma." Waving to the chimera, one final stream of words released themselves in a frantic manner. "But, next time, let me draw you!"

Nodding to the two chimeras, the hyena opened the orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, the soldier closed his eyes. World of ice and snow within his vision after a split second, the chimera walked through the hallways. Soundproof room upon him after about fifteen minutes, an oddity had presented itself upon the door to the steel walled room. Note being written in Sneznayan, the early adult read the words on the paper carefully.

"Place your Inazuman uniform within the waste bin immediately upon your return," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing had said.

Waste bin beside his uniform drawers, the answer had been clear to him. The odd jobs within Inazuma had come to an end. Removing the teleport waypoint proxy orb from the pockets, the hyena returned the orb into the usual place it resided in when not in use. Removing the hairpins and earrings from the second pocket, the soldier opened up the box casing within seconds. Jewelry and accessories stored away, the time of their disposal had come.

Inazuman clothes thrown into the waste bin, the soldier removed the familiar sets of clothing. Black undershirt on him, and usual pants on him as well, another note had been upon him. Note telling him to take the waste bin to a heat source, the early adult placed his permanent uniform on him. Winter coat melting onto his partially human person, the chimera kept walking.

Heat source room upon him, the chimera removed the clothes from the waste bin. Placing the clothes into the fireplace, the Inazuman outfit had soon been no more. Terrifying flames flashing in his mind, the hyena had run out of the heat source room at lightning speed.

Soundproof room on him after about half an hour, a pant broke loose from the early adult's throat. Nightfall soon hitting in the permafrost north, a wave of tiredness overtook the chimera. Glasses removed, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. World of sleep not ready to take him away, a sea of thoughts crashed through him.

His temporary uniform completely disposed of, the hyena knew a day of monotonous diplomacy would soon return tomorrow. World feeling as though everything had looped on repeat recently, such return to nothing was a no-brainer for the soldier. World of sleep about to take him away for the night, one final thought poked the dormant shark grooves in his brain.

The Inazuma odd jobs had reached their end.

Branch Off 2. (14) The Sea Lion's Nameless Island

"The world, is it truly moving?
How many days are truly passing?
Even as the days move forward, nothing is changing

Nothing is moving.
Another day of nothing awaits me.
Monotony is looping.
Every day is yesterday, the day before is today.
Looping nonstop, in this cold breeze.
Each and every day is the same.
Same as ever, for my life as a Fatui.
Same as ever, since I must keep my loyalty.

It is delivery after delivery, diplomacy after diplomacy. Hourglass
Sand not moving.
Looks like another day of deliveries will be looping.
Another day of nothing awaits me.
No matter what, I must remain diligent, and silent.
Diligence is key to successful living."

Fourteen days had passed since the chimera had to do odd jobs in Inazuma. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred within the hyena's diplomatic soldier life. Deliveries throughout Teyvat, diplomacy of nothing, business affairs and training cycling throughout the two weeks, nothing had been out of the ordinary for the young soldier.

Upon waking up for the morning, the chimera was ready for the workday at hand. Figuring another day of nothing awaited him, the early adult rose from the uncomfortable bed. Placing the glasses over the heterochromatic eyes, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he dressed in his uniform, the hyena had come to wonder: which monotonous affair awaited him today? Not hearing any chilling wind outside, training on the training grounds could certainly be a possibility at hand. Snapping his uniform buttons into the correct holes, the early adult moved onward towards the next step with due diligence.

Removing a set of jewelry and accessories, the chimera clipped the hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching rabbits in his hairs and ears, an imaginary power had burst through the hyena's partially human veins. Heelless shoes on, and flavorless rations devoured, the young soldier had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increasing in volume with a militaristic roar, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. Still figuring a day of nothing awaited him, a wave of subdued confidence leaked through the chimera's pores. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "We are delivering supplies to an uncharted island in Mondstadt today." Two supply bags shaking from behind him, the Agent placed the second satchel in his gloved hands. Undocumented areas were a useful tool for Her Majesty's future world conquering endeavors.

Siorc jumped five steps back upon hearing the Agent say they would be heading to an uncharted island for the day. His heart skip two beats as the sea of thoughts crashed at bay. Her Majesty, was she beginning to make her moves on the world? Hearing the sound of heavy weighted items shake in the bag behind him, the young soldier gulped. Were the Agent and he delivering weapons to an unknown area?

Uncharted island echoing through his eardrums, the chimera tilted his head. Just where could such an island be? Never having been alerted to any other areas within Mondstadt, the hyena's heart skipped two more beats. Was delivering weapons to an uncharted island for a future war even necessary? The early adult did not know, but no questions were allowed to him as Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you with me? We're delivering supplies to an uncharted island in Mondstadt today! Get a move on!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. He could never fathom what could possibly be on his subordinate's mind, as usual.

Hearing his orders again, the hyena flinched. Closing his eyes for a moment, the chimera took a quick deep breath. There was no time. His time belonged to Her Majesty while he was on the nonexistent clock. Removing the satchel from the Agent's hands, he placed it on his back. Heavy weight hammered onto his partially human spine, cold sweat poured down the hyena's back.

"Yes, sir," he replied autonomously. Future plans for war or not, he knew he had to remain diligent. Diligence was key to successful living as a Fatui Soldier. Arm being held out, the chimera waited for the gripping prison to take him away, like always.

Seeing the soldier holding his arm out, the Agent straightened the bag on his subordinate's back. Bag no longer crooked, he returned his attention to the soldier in an instant. "Good, let's get going soldier," the Agent responded. Arm in front of him, he gripped the limb tight. "We are travelling to the island by boat, so don't fool around."

Gripping prison as tight as it always had been, the chimera closed his eyes. As the teleportation to Mondstadt began, the hyena thought one thing and one thing only. Wherever the uncharted island the Agent and he were going to was, delivering weapons was certainly not a good thing.

Her Majesty's was preparing for war, indeed.

***

"Sometimes I wonder, Her Majesty, just what is she truly planning?
Every break in the monotony is never a good thing.
All these weapons behind me, I know she is planning something.

Looks like this uncharted island
Is off the edge of Starfell Valley
Off the edge, unseen by many.
Never know how she finds these places, honestly.

Cannot question Her Majesty's practices, however, she will kill me.
Her Majesty's orders are absolute.
It is best I do not question it, she could be watching.
Maybe, perhaps I am overthinking
Every delivery I do is the same, surely.
Right, yes, I am overthinking.
Above all, I must remain diligent, and silent.
Silence is key."

Upon reaching an area of Mondstadt through the Teleport Waypoint, the chimera removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his pocket with his free hand. Studying the blue marker, the soldier blinked. The white marker on the map had said Starfell Valley, Mondstadt. Cliffsides surrounding him within the left and right side, and large ocean in front of him, the soldier let out a sigh.

Small boat docked in front of him, the soldier was dragged onto the vessel within seconds. Removed from the gripping prison, the hyena's possibly human rear and the wooden boat met. Agent's gloved hands holding the paddles of Dendro creation, the vessel moved forward with a militaristic roar.

As the small hand boat cruised across the water, multiple thoughts wrapped vines around the chimera. Her Majesty, had she been planning such delivery of weaponry for awhile? Knowing the Cryo Archon had utmost authority in the permafrost north, her plans were never questioned, for sure. Weapons weighing his back down, the hyena stood still. Moving even one meter would cause the boat to sink, for sure.

Hearing the ocean waves crash from underneath the boat, the hyena continued to stay still. Shore getting farther away as the seconds marched onward, the chimera had begun to wonder. Just where could the uncharted island be located within Starfell Valley? Not seeing any landform on his proxy map, the wanderlust had begun to intoxicate the early adult.

Boat creeping forward as slow as the Liyue zombie's words spoken, an odd sight had been on private display. Fatui Diplomat from his jurisdiction mounted upon rocks, a dark aura surrounded the generic nobody. Layer of dark ice above the water, the diplomat walked forward. Witnessing such, the soldier tilted his head. Was creating a bridge with ice even efficient? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, traversing water through a bridge of ice was a favorable mode of transportation.

Seeing an island appear within a distance, the soldier blinked. Uncharted area looking quite far off into the ocean, more bouts of wanderlust intoxicated the chimera. How did Her Majesty discover such an island within Teyvat? No indication of an area existing under any circumstance, the toxins of curiosity continued to boil inside the early adult as the boat continued its travel towards the unknown.

Sky changing to a grey shade as the boat steered forward, visibility had begun to die like a monster in the open wilderness. But such reduction of visibility was no problem for the Agent. Fatui cruising the boat across the water as if he had been there before, moving forward was not halted, even for a moment. Ice walking Diplomat continuing to travel as well, the hyena statue stared off in silence. The Snezhnaya born Fatui were powerful monsters.

Mist getting stronger, and visibility reducing as the seconds raged on inexorably, the hyena kept staring off into the distance. Misty island inching closer with every second, the flip of the work mode switch turned on inside the soldier. Any minute now, the boat would reach its destination. Ice walking Fatui arriving on the island, the distance was beginning to shorten swifter.

Dormant Ruin Guard stationed by a rock, the Agent steered the boat six more meters forward. Submerged stairs nearing, the Fatui docked the small vessel. Paddles placed in the boat, the Agent stood forward. Knowing that was his cue to exit, Siorc stood up from the vehicle of human prowess. Subordinate already having been far ahead, the hyena knew he had to accelerate his movement. The hourglasses sand was about to reach the bottom.

As he stood from the vessel, the chimera stared off into the distance. No matter where he looked, the world beyond was covered by thick fog. If such fog prevented anyone from seeing what went on within the unknown island, the chimera knew one thing, and one thing only. Her Majesty could get away with hiding anything she wished. A terrifying notion to be had, for sure. Time not being his, the soldier stepped forward.

Walking forward, the soldier examined the area as quick as the mismatched eyes would allow. Before him had been an empty area with nothing but a stone pathway situated between empty fields of grass with pink flowers littered throughout. Stone staircase in front of him, the chimera ascended. But, an oddity had graced his damaged vision as he kept moving forward.

Near the stone staircase had been a small hut that looked as though it had been built quite recently. Fatui attempting to rip the door open, the hyena walked forward. Whatever the soldiers within his jurisdiction were up to, aggression was not on the menu for the early adult. Loud pounds echoing through the strong wind, the hyena tuned the sound out as he proceeded with vigilance.

Moving towards a stone podium, a large splash made rounds through the cacophony. Had more soldiers arrived? Curiosity nibbling on the cartilage of his ear, the soldier headed towards the noise. Splash sounding close by, the hyena sprinted back towards the other direction, for the moment. Small sandy area towards the other side of the grass, the chimera examined the new arrival in silence.

A battle was about to begin on the uncharted island.

Entering the unknown area had been a short young woman sitting on her stomach. The young woman had cream colored fins where her human hands and legs would be, and a large flipper on her backside. Seeing such, the hyena had come to wonder, had the person been a sea lion chimera? Never having seen a sea lion before, he knew he could be wrong. Chimera body registering, the hyena continued his study. The possible sea lion had uneven long cream hair that went down to about her chest. Long side being pulled back into a braid, and other side going down to about her ears, the man examined further. Red ribbons to the sides of her hair, and grey-pink eyes looking lackadaisical, he looked at the sea lion's outfit, for a moment. Thin pink outfit profile partially on display, he ended his examination.

Noticing the possible sea lion yawn, the chimera backed five steps away. Door banging thrusting with a fervor, a sense of urgency flooded the hyena. The young sea lion, could she have lived on the island? If such were the case, she would have been in danger, for sure. But, he knew he could not say anything, Her Majesty could be listening from anywhere in Teyvat. Walking forward, the soldier bit his tongue, but the noise of a voice stopped him in his tracks.

"Time to relax!" the sea lion said, voice blissful. Flipping onto their backside, a smile graced their face. "What a nice swim."

Sea lion relaxing upon the sand, the hyena's face grew dark. Weapon bag behind him feeling like a cinderblock, uneasiness wrapped vines around him. The sea lion chimera, they had to have lived on the island, for sure. Fatui continuing to bang on the door, the feelings of unease would not cease, even for a moment. If someone lived on the island, hiding weapons around the area would put the young woman in danger, for sure. Returning to the podium he had been to moments before, the cinderblock of weaponry behind him only grew heavier.

Hearing the loud commotion, the sea lion turned their head. What in the world was all the commotion? Loud sounds of pounding and drilling drowning out the wind, the sea lion stood on her leg fins. Walking forward slowly, the cause of the noise had become apparent within seconds. Standing in a hoard around their hut had been mysterious, sinister looking men in odd looking outfits. Insignias on their outfits, a sense of anger boiled within them. Multiple bags upon the men's backs, the sinister deeds about to unfold came to the sea lion within an instant. Ready to stand her ground, the sea lion waved their hand fins about.

"Hey, you can't do that!" the sea lion shouted at the top of their lungs. "This is our property! Leave our space!"

Hearing the sea lion chimera scream, the cinderblock of weapons behind him only felt heavier. Knowing now a chimera had truly lived on the island, continuing the mission was not something he wished to come into fruition. Fatui continuing their rampage, the weight behind his back had been the heaviest. The sea lion, if any of the Fatui in his jurisdiction spotted them, her safety would be at risk within seconds.

Sound of a loud drill piercing the wind, Siorc walked forward. Placing the bag of weapons on the small podium, stones continued to weigh down his back. The sea lion chimera, the bagged weapons would put them in danger, for sure. Knowing he had no choice but to contribute to such if he did not wish to be whistle blown on, the cinderblock upon his back had transformed into a ton.

Sinister men not stopping their rampage, the sea lion grit their teeth. Who did the men think they were continuing to try to break into their home and store their sinister weapons? Still hearing the sound a drill off in the corner, the anger within them had begun to boil into overdrive. Perhaps alerting the villains that their sister would not stand for such when she returns would steer them away? Feeling a sense of confidence, the sea lion readied herself.

"Wait until my sister hears about this!" the sea lion shouted, indignant. "She'll let you all have it when she gets angry!"

Villains giving up on the house after hearing the shout, the loud bangs had stopped within an instant. Sound of the drill ending as the well, the hoard of foreign invaders moved towards the pillar. Multiple bags of artillery thrown into the hollowed out stone, the invaders took their leave within minutes. Two staying behind, though, the sea lion readied herself for battle. But something of note stood out to the sea lion.

Staying behind on their home had been a short young androgynous person with hyena claws and a tail. Mismatched eyes looking nervous, the sea lion let out a sigh. Those foreigners, had they forced a chimera to join them? Next to the chimera had been a tall man in a black outfit. The tall foreigner, what sinister plot were they conspiring? Keeping an ear open, the sea lion listened carefully.

"Come back after you deal with the distraction," the Agent said. Arms pointed at the hyena limbs, a wave of disgust littered his voice. "Don't return until your body is fixed." Animal limbs were a wretched sight to behold when not asked for.

Agent exiting into the boat solo, the chimera looked at his limbs. Arms and legs having turned into hyena ones, his face had become crimson in an instant. His body had gone into hyena mode, how embarrassing. Remembering the Agent had told him to keep it under control in public in the past, the soldier closed his eyes. Hyena claws retracting back into human ones, the hyena placed himself on the ground. Heelless shoes back on his currently human feet, the early adult stood up.

Sea lion chimera staring at him, the cinderblock upon his back had become two tons. Weapons hidden within the uncharted island, he knew he had to apologize to them. The danger she could be in from the weapons now around the island, he knew he was partially responsible for such if something were to happen to them. Feeling invisible hands grab his throat, the early adult motioned his apology as quickly as his lips could allow.

"I'm sorry," Siorc said, voice shaking. Tears about to stream down his face, the invisible hands around his throat grabbed him harder.

Hyena apologizing to them, the sea lion looked at the chimera's uniform. The insignia on the brown jacket, the young person had to have been a part of some army against any sort of will. Had the army taken a chimera into their stronghold? What a mess.

"They took a chimera into their stronghold?!" the sea lion accidentally blurted out. Realizing her words had come out themselves, the sea lion yelped. Had they blurted out what they had been thinking? Already having said something, introducing herself was the only option left. "In that case, I'm Savon." Chimera not looking like a savage like the rest of the foreign invaders, the sea lion had pondered. Could the chimera foreigner convince the savage villains to stop? Front fins put in a pleading position, she readied herself. "Could you tell your subordinates to set their sights elsewhere, please? This is our home, not theirs!"

Hearing Savon's pleas, the hyena's heart had begun to race. Cinderblock on his back weighing three tons, his heart beat harder within his chest. He knew he had no authority over his subordinates to stop Her Majesty's mission at hand. Knowing if he did anything against the Tsaritsa's wishes, his life would be over, in an instant. Having no amount of power, the weight kept increasing from behind him.

"I'm sorry, ma'am," Siorc responded, voice barely audible. Had ma'am been the correct form of address? If it had not been, his list of sins for the day would increase by one. "Her Majesty will kill me." Weapon bag next to his feet, the painful uneven heartbeat increased. A chimera's life was about to be in danger because of him. Such a sin was an unforgivable one, to an undoubtful degree.

Chimera looking terrified, Savon had begun to ponder. Did the hyena chimera have no authority within the foreign villains rankings? If there was no such authority, perhaps fighting for their home would scare the foreigners away. Plan forming, she readied to announce the plan to the cowering chimera before them.

"Guess we'll cause some ruckus then," Savon chided, mischievous tone in voice. "My sister is powerful. We'll make them regret coming here!"

Sea lion's plans hitting his eardrums, the hyena simply nodded. If they had something planned, he knew he could not interfere. Hyena claws retracted long ago, the young soldier knew it was time to return to the permafrost north for the evening. Highlighting the waypoint back to the military barracks, he turned to the sea lion one last time.

Odd device in the chimera's hand, Savon placed her left find on her chin. How had that orb in the chimera's hands formed into a map? Where had the foreigner been from? Such technology had been a mystery to the sea lion. As a light surrounded the hyena chimera, the final points of her plan had begun to motion itself forward.

"I'll tell my sister not to attack you if you are sent here again tomorrow," Savon said quickly. "We'll win this fight!"

Not having anything to say, the chimera closed his eyes as the fast travel back to the military barracks had begun. Permafrost north within his field of vision after a split second, the chimera walked forward. Steel walled room upon him after a few minutes, fatigue had overtook him within seconds.

Everything removed, the chimera slumped into bed. As his head hit the pillow, a sea of thoughts crashed around in the dormant shark grooves in his brain. The sea lion chimera, the weapons being stored away on the uncharted island would put them in danger, for sure. Closing his eyes, the cinderblock on his back weighed four tons. World of tormented sleep awaiting him, the sin's weight continued to grow.

Chimeras were in danger, and it was his fault.

***

"Could more chimeras have been put in danger because of me?
Her Majesty's orders, how many other chimeras have to suffer because of me?
I've met many throughout Teyvat, are they suffering?
Maybe I'm truly the cause, being a Fatui.
Every single one of them that's hurting,
Really, somehow, I caused that, being a Fatui.
Any that have crossed paths with me, I'm sorry.
Sorry if I caused you any harm, I'm to blame.

All of this is on me.
Really, all of this is my fault.
Each and every inconvenience I may have caused,

I'm sorry.
No matter how I look at it, this mission is a danger to chimera's lives.

Dangerous, and I'm a part of the cause.
All those weapons in hiding, I brought a bag along.
No way I'm not partially responsible.
Guilt isn't enough, I'm to blame.
Every single weapon brought there, if anything happens,
Really, honestly, I'm to blame.

All the chimeras that suffered because of my duties, I'm sorry.
No matter how many apologies that sit inside me
Dozens are never enough.

If any other chimeras are put in danger, I am to blame.

All the chimeras that have encountered me on the job, I'm sorry.
More danger may come to you, I'm sorry.

The fawn in the rainforest, I'm sorry. The
Other day when I ignored you, I put you in danger. I'm to

Blame. All of this, everything.
Looks like my sins are growing.
All of this is my fault.
My fault, and I'm to blame.
Even if it's Her Majesty's orders, I take responsibility."

Waking up the next morning, the soldier was not ready for the day at hand. Agent informing him he would be heading for the uncharted island again for the second day in a row, the hyena's heart turned to stone. Bag of weapons hammered on his back, willpower had drained from the chimera within seconds. But, he knew he could not abandon his duties. If a second act of not working were to ever occur, his life would be extinguished, for sure.

Boat cruising forward, the cinderblock on the chimera's back weighed five tons. If Savon had still been on the unknown island, danger would come for them, for sure. Could a sea lion take on a group of Fatui that could have had Her Majesty's sinister weapons on them? Knowing the members in his jurisdiction could be armed, uneasiness ate the chimera like Grilled Tiger Fish.

Vessel reaching the submerged stairs, the boat had been docked. Paddles placed inside the vehicle, the Agent moved forward. Knowing he had no choice but do his work, the chimera stood up from the vehicle of human creation.

Hearing the cacophonous sound of Fatui soldiers banging on the sea lion chimera's hut, the hyena allowed a sigh to escape the throat. Were the members within his jurisdiction still trying to break into an innocent chimera's home to hide weapons in? Walking forward, more discordant sounds drowned out the heavy wind. Drills carving through pillars, noise was a battle of war.

Another noise would soon join the battle.

"You better watch out!" Savon shouted. Her voice carried on the wind. "My sister is coming!"

Loud splash echoing on the turbulence, the hyena walked towards the new noise. Noting there had been another chimera next to the sea lion, the chimera had begun his examination of the second player on the battlefield within seconds.

Standing next to Savon had been a slightly taller young woman standing on cream colored fins. But such transformation had ended within seconds. Sea lion fins retracting into human legs, the soldier continued to study the chimera. The second sea lion had short cream hair that went down to about her chin. Two buns on the top of her hair, and bangs swept to the middle, her eyebrows had been nearly invisible. Seeing edges of black from the back of her hair, the early adult blinked. Had the other sea lion been wearing a ribbon in her hair, as well? Her eyes were grey, like the foggy sky. White sleeveless top that did not look wet in the slightest from hitting the water, the young soldier ended his examination.

Being alerted by her sister the night before villains had been hiding weapons in their summer home, the older sister had been ready for battle. Claymore in hand, its vision glowed on her waist. Unwanted guests causing damage to pillars, they were about to get the fight for their life. Such people were a danger to its sister, and she could not allow it.

"I got you, sis," the slightly taller sea lion said. "Let big sister Eau hunt its prey!" Bright red greatsword in hand, the older sea lion was ready for battle.

Closing their eyes for a moment, Savon's fins had returned to human form. Legs and arms no longer semi-aquatic, the sea lion rose their fist into the air. Vision glowing inside a light blue winged book strapped upon her waist, any support in battle would come, if at all necessary.

"You go, Eau! Show them who's the boss of this island!" Savon shouted with valor. She then pointed her currently human fingers at Siorc. "But don't hurt him!"

Noticing its sister point at a purple haired individual, Eau kept the person in mind. Was the bespectacled purple haired person the hyena chimera Savon mentioned last night? If a chimera had indeed been in the villain's stronghold, attacking him would be excluded in her battle upon the unwanted guests.

Stone pillar being drilled into, Eau stepped forward with stealth. Yellow orb glowing on its waist, an elemental attack had begun its early stages. Dozens of aquamarine crystals surrounding her, the shards combined with the claymore. Crystal and greatsword becoming one, it slashed the weapon forward with a Geo roar.

"Diamond slash!" Eau shouted.

Battle cry making its rounds, the slashes continued. Crystals continuing their rampage with every second, the villains had pushed into the water nearby. Crystals soon vanishing from the greatsword, Eau sheathed the weapon for a moment. Submerged villains not fighting back, a warning was about to come the villain's way with a sister roar.

"Stay away from this island if you want to live," Eau exclaimed, voice menacing. "We'll be disposing of your weapons, by the way!"

Defeated Fatui scrambling into a nearby boat and running away, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. Agent nowhere to be seen, a sense of disbelief had hit the chimera. Was the Agent a coward who refused to face defeat? He supposed if he had vanished in the commotion, the sea lion chimeras would not be in any danger from his daggers. All thoughts on such subject had halted within seconds, however. Hearing Eau say it would dispose of the weapons his subordinates tried hiding, a small sense of relief lightened the cinderblock's weight on his back. But, such relief died in the ocean within seconds.

Villains stepping forward towards Eau, Savon unhooked the book from her waist. Seeing black aura surround the foreign invaders, their currently human legs broke out into a sprint. Not being used to such form of exercise, the sea lion almost tripped. Regardless of such, the sea lion would not falter. Sister dealing with a crowd of villains, the sea lion was ready to join the battle.

Light blue winged book floating in midair, balls of blue fire had released from the pages of spells. Flaming projectiles hitting the villains, the sea lion prepared for the next blow with careful precision. Book moving to their backside, a trident of blue flames appeared in their hands. Flames not affecting her in any way, the sea lion slashed the elemental weapon forward.

"Trident of fire!" Savon shouted.

Seeing Savon fighting with the terrifying element of fire, Siorc jumped more than twenty steps back. Why, of all visions, had the sea lion been blessed with the terrifying element of Pyro? Watching as they swung their horrifying weapon of pyro creation about, the soldier's legs shook vigorously. There was no way he could bear witness to such a horrific show before him. Turning his head into the opposite direction, the flames had been out of sight, out of mind.

Hit with some sinister energy, the two sea lions grit their teeth. Did the villains think their attacks would be enough to stop them? The foreign invaders did not know what was about to hit them. Crystals fusing with Eau's greatsword once again, it slashed the weapon forward. Blue flamed projectiles joining the battle again as well, Pyro and Geo exchanged blows with one another.

Foreign invaders thrown into the ocean, defeat had resounded within the area. Villains scrambling into a nearby boat and sailing away, the sea lion placed the book back onto their waist. Eau double checking the area for any leftover villains, the younger sea lion rubbed her hands together. The job of protecting their home from intruders had been completed.

No other villains in hiding, Eau removed a key from its pocket. Large black bag in its currently human hands, the disposal of the weapon satchels was ready to begin. Younger sister joining the party, the dangerous bags were placed into the black bag within seconds. Almost every amount of danger accounted for, the younger sea lion walked towards the hyena chimera. Tapping on his shoulder, the final discard was about to take place.

"I'll be taking that," Savon said. Waiting for the hyena chimera to turn around, the sea lion kept their patience.

Tap barely registering, the young soldier handed the weapon bag to the sea lion chimera. Sea lion placing the final weapon bag into a large garbage bag, the hyena stared about weakly. Older sea lion chimera jumping into the ocean and swimming away, the early adult knew it was his time to leave. But, such exit was halted.

Blue flames flashing in his vision, the hyena's heart had begun to beat hard and fast within the chimera's chest. Painful unevenness reigning supreme, thoughts had begun to rush through his partially human brain. The weapons in the garbage bag, if they were sensitive to water, Eau would be in danger. Heart beating harder as the seconds unraveled, his body swayed forward into the sand below. Sand and body meeting, blackness overtook the chimera.

Another chimera was in danger.

***
Coming to some time later, the sight of the two sea lions standing over him had appeared in Siorc's returning vision. Worried look on the sister's faces, the chimera placed himself into a sitting position. Feeling barely any energy remain inside him, the soldier remained stationary, for the moment.

Savon and Eau looking at him with worried eyes, the chimera's face had become crestfallen a smidgeon. Having put Eau in danger, did he even deserve such worried looks? He knew he didn't, but no such words would leave the early adult's lips. Savon and Eau extending their human hands, the hyena had been brought back to his feet.

"I'm glad you're awake and responsive," Savon said as they rose the hyena chimera to his feet. "You fainted. Are you alright?"

Hearing the question, the soldier froze. Knowing he may have put the sea lion's sister in danger, no response had left the hyena's lips. Putting another chimera's life in danger, any worry the two sea lion's felt should have been reversed to each other. The weapons in the garbage bag, if they had activated within the black bag, the damage to its partially human person would be an unforgivable sin.

Seeing a guilty look upon the purple haired individual's face, Eau's face twisted into an exasperated look. Why had the person been feeling guilty? Having brought the discarded weapons to the Knight of Favonius headquarters to investigate, the name Fatui had been relayed to its eardrums. Did the person feel responsible for what had happened because they had been a part of such villainous group? Noticing no aggression in the person's demeaner, it would set the record straight.

"Alright, you don't need to give me that look," Eau replied to the individual's crestfallen eyes. "None of this is your responsibility, and you have no reason to feel guilty." Arms crossed around its chest, it looked into the purple haired person's eyes. "Savon and I aren't in any danger." Vision glowing beside her, she continued speaking. "We have Visions, and if the Fatui come back here, we can fight for ourselves."

Eau proclaiming the two sea lions could fight for themselves, the cinderblock's weight on his back had been reduced to almost nothing. Seeing the two fight, he supposed no danger would be posed to the sister duo. No threat seeming possible for such strong partially human people, the hyena simply nodded. Feeling slight energy return to him, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his uniform pocket.

Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, the hyena closed his eyes. Fast travel to the permafrost north beginning within a blink of a mismatched eye, the soldier walked through the icy hallway in silence. Soundproof room nearing after about fifteen minutes, the chimera entered the steel walled room. Placing himself on the ice cold floor, a sea of thoughts wrapped vines around him.

The sea lion chimeras, while they were in no danger, could other chimeras around Teyvat been put in danger because of him? The fawn chimera in Sumeru, had they been put in danger recently by his refusal to help her? Knowing he had come across various other chimeras in his time since being forced to become a Fatui, his heart had begun to skip multiple beats.

Heart beating harder and faster as the seconds unraveled, the chimera's body swayed forward to the cold hard ground. Icy floor and body meeting, the hyena shut his eyes. World of unconsciousness inviting him back in as the dizziness kicked into overdrive, one final frantic thought pulsed through his fading mind.

Chimeras around Teyvat were in danger, and it was his fault.

***

"I'm starting to wonder, honestly.

Are there more chimeras in hiding?
Maybe they are, and I'm starting to worry.

So many chimeras I could have put in danger. And I am to blame,
Obviously.
Really, to all the chimeras that have been put in danger, I am sorry.
Really, truly, I am sorry.
Your Majesty, I will be your pawn on the chessboard, but please, don't use me like this in your army."

Upon coming to in the morning, immediate tiredness had overtaken the chimera. Uneven heartbeat still present, the chimera took a deep breath. Agent claiming something had seemed off about him today, the hyena knew he had to work even harder. Knowing if at any moment, disappointment were to reach Her Majesty's ears, his life would be over within an instant.

Having been taken to the training grounds for the day, Siorc took a long deep breath. Heart continuing to beat at a rapid pace, the thoughts from earlier increased the weight of the cinderblock upon his back. The sea lions on the uncharted island, just how many other chimeras were in hiding, like them? If there had been more chimeras in hiding around the continent, many could have been put in danger because of him, for sure. Uneven heartbeat continuing to beat at a painful rate, the soldier took another quick deep breath. There was no time. His orders could arrive at any moment.

Eventually feeling the tap on his shoulder, the chimera turned to his practice partner. Being brought back to reality, the hyena returned his focus to the training grounds. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock right now. Any thoughts that had nothing to do with the day at hand had to be removed from his mind. Taking one final deep breath, he again turned to his training partner.

As his future combatant in arms finally looked at him, the practice partner studied carefully. When he had arrived today, it had come to him immediately. Taking multiple pauses to breathe, and face looking pale, the evidence had been undeniable. His training partner was in no condition whatsoever to be training with him today. He had to relay such fact to him before the Harbinger were to speak.

"Ingne, you don't look well," the practice partner said sternly. If there were not a mask on his face, there would be a worried look on it. "You're in no condition to be training with me today. Let me take you back to your room." Resolute as he was, however, the resounding of the unknown numbered Harbinger's voice echoed. What absolutely rudely poor timing, on their part.

"Why does the Balladeer dump me on you guys in a jurisdiction that isn't even mine when he's away on business?" the unknown Harbinger complained, whiny tone in voice. "Train however you want, I couldn't care less. Peace." Black shadow vanishing as quickly as they appeared, their presence had been gone without a trace. It was almost as if, in a world outside Teyvat, accidental ones and zeroes had been placed in the area that were never meant to be there.

Orders being given, the chimera knew being returned to his room was not an option. Time blending together as of recent, the water could still be hot between Her Majesty and he. Closing his eyes for a moment, the soldier shook is head. Any thoughts that had nothing to do with work had to exit his mind in an instant. Nothing but thoughts of training within his head, for the moment, he made unseen eye contact with his training partner.

"I am fine, sir," Siorc replied, voice barely audible. "There was no time to rest." He swore he could feel sweat begin to pour down his back, but the chimera cared not. He was on the nonexistent clock. There was no more time; Her Majesty could be watching.

The practice partner raised an eyebrow. Had his future combatant in arms been lying to him? He supposed if he were going to proceed to be stubborn, there was no use arguing. But, he knew if he were to add any extra stress onto him, from training it would lead to disastrous consequences. Training his reflexes was not happening today. Perhaps target practice could satisfy his partner's needs? He knew it was worth a shot.

"Alright, Ingne, in that case, we're doing target practice today," he replied flatly. His words were stern. Taking the chimera's hand into his own, he guided him to the weapons. "But, if I deem you unwell enough to continue, I'm taking you to Kawu." Making his stance known, he would not falter.

Siorc shook his head at the practice partner's suggestion. Was taking him to Loba even necessary? His training partner had no reason to bring her into such ordeal. Taking another deep breath, the hyena blanked his mind. Placing the bow and arrow basket onto his back, the two walked over to the archery targets in silence.

Knowing his practice partner would watch him like the hawk chimera, the young soldier placed the bow in his left hand. Changing his currently human legs into a launching stance, the hyena placed the arrow within the bow's residence. As he pulled the string back to toss the arrow, concentration had left the building. Arrow missing the target, cold sweat had begun to pour down his back.

Masked eyes on him, the soldier attempted with all his might to regain focus. Slapping his cheeks, all concentration had returned within moments. Returning himself to a launching stance, the hyena placed another arrow within the bow's residence. As he pulled the string back, the hyena focused his attention on the bullseye. But, accuracy had been a corpse in the snow outside. Arrow hitting the edge of the target, but not the center, more sweat had begun to pour down the chimera's back.

Another few arrows not hitting the center, the hyena again took a long deep breath. Her Majesty, if she had seen his performance on the training grounds, she would be disappointed in him, for sure. Placing another arrow onto the string, the weapon had been launched into the air. Arrow hitting within eight meters of the target, the early adult switched the position of his stance. He knew, if he focused a little harder, the bullseye would be within reach.

Three more arrows almost hitting the center, the final arrow had been within his currently human hands. No arrow hitting the target, the soldier knew now more than ever. If the last arrow did not hit the bullseye, a Fatui on the training grounds would blow a whistle upon him, for sure. Life being on the line, if such were the case, the chimera walked five steps back. Perhaps, just maybe, if he were slightly farther back, the arrow would hit the center.

Bending his back a smidgeon, the chimera focused his mismatched eyes like a Ruin Guard's laser. Feeling the energy of a sharpshooter, the hyena pulled the string back one final time. Arrow racing towards the target at lightning speed, the weapon hit the target in the dead center. No arrows remaining, the soldier placed the bow back into the bow and arrow basket.

Walking over to the target, the chimera removed the weapons from the wooden dartboard dummy. Arrows placed into the basket, he turned to his training partner. Surely, witnessing his performance, he would no longer have any reason to bring the jackal chimera into such matters. Hearing his practice partner about to speak, the hyena listened with due diligence.

Removing the bow and arrow basket from his practice partner's back, the training partner placed a hand on his future combatant in arm's shoulder. Noticing his training partner had stopped to breathe for a few moments, continuing training for the day was out of the question. Hitting multiple arrows onto the target having been more than enough, the time had come for his dismissal to begin.

"That's enough for today," the practice partner said, voice stern. "I won't take you to Kawu, but do get some rest." Removing the bow and arrow basket from his training partner's back, he placed it onto his own. "I'm going to return the weapons. We'll return to your normal training next time." Basket removed, the generic soldier exited the area.

Dismissal being granted, the chimera headed towards the military barracks. As he continued onward towards the soundproof room, various thoughts from earlier had repeated themselves within the dormant shark grooves of his brain. The chimeras hiding within Teyvat, just how many were in danger because of him? If his forced upon work as a Fatui had put any lives of other chimeras at risk, such was a sin upon his shoulders only.

Steel walled room nearing, another thought had looped on repeat within the chimera's mind. The older sea lion chimera, she had said he was not responsible. If such were the case, could other chimeras protect themselves from the Fatui's future dangerous heists? He supposed if such were the case, the world of chimera's safety would not only be on his shoulders.

Soundproof room upon him, Siorc removed his glasses, hairpins and earrings. Everything removed, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Sea lion chimera's words repeating within him, the cinderblock on his back had been crushed into a million pieces. Perhaps, just maybe, not all of chimera kind was in danger. But, he knew, if any chimera were to be in danger in the future because of the Fatui's action, he would still be partially to blame. World of sleep about to take him, one final thought graced the chimera's mind.

He needed to tune out the thoughts of guilt within him.

15. Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 6: Leads Forming

"Why is everything looping?
Is time gone, missing?
Not a single day anymore feels any
Different, surely, everything is
Really just repeating
In this cold breeze
So many days of monotony
Every day is repeating

Today is yesterday, the day before is today
Repeating, looping, reversing
Every yesterday is today
Even so, I need to keep working. I cannot falter.
Soon, another yesterday will be today, but I have to stay diligent. Always."

Dreaming had continued its never ending reign within the adult chimera's subconscious mind. The pattern of anguish would not cease, even within his adult life. The cycle would lock him behind a room with steel bars, not allowing his escape. The endless loop of torment would continue onward in the night before him, as well.

Before him had been an area unknown to the chimera. Within his field of dream vision had been an ancient looking landmark with a circular looking dome in the center. Water in the center of the dome, and stone staircase off in the distance. Odd blue creatures sitting inside podiums, and stone platform floating in the center, unfamiliarity bit a hole in the hyena's ear.

Unfamiliarity was shot with a sniper on the battlefield.

As the dream minutes continued, a familiar face had appeared within the planes of hyena's subconscious mind. Appearing beside the water had been a face he could never forget. Green hair, and jade eyes he would recognize anywhere. His younger sister had been standing about like a statue beside a tall woman he had never seen before in the mortal, waking world.

Next to Hase had been a woman that towered over her like a statue. Short dark blue hair, cyan eyes and mismatching gloves screaming to the sky, the hyena examined the unknown person with due diligence. Small blue choker with a die hanging from a blue thread, the hyena moved his head downward. Dark blue outfit matching the hair almost exactly, boots with skin poking out and white jacking over the lady's shoulders, the early adult ended his examination. But the unfamiliar person before him had not been the only one.

Floating above the stone platform in the center of the water dome had been a figure taller than everyone within the area. Brown spiked mask covering the person's face, white caped outfit with a red glowing core in the center with a spiked circular object from behind them, and catalyst floating off to the side, the hyena let out a gulp from the dream throat. Bow appearing in the woman's hands, a battle was about to start within the world asleep.

"Just remember this," the tall woman said in a stern tone. Her voice was deep. "Don't tell anyone you've seen me. Or else, you won't come out alive."

Hearing such, an unfeeling chill had run down the chimera's spine. The tall woman, was she a dangerous person? If such were the case, the hyena wanted to let out a scream. But, such scream never came. Feeling a nonexistent zipper close his lips shut, silence had become the early adult's reckoning. Hase disappearing for a moment, and polearm appearing in her hands, the soldier stared in silence. Adhesive lock holding his currently hyena legs in place, all he could do was watch. Watch in silence as an unavoidable battle was about to take place.

Tall woman spreading her legs out, the arrow and bowstring had shook hands. Holding the shot for a total of five seconds, a torrent of water surrounded the weapon. Projectile hitting the core's center, a counterattack had been on full display. Enemy lifting their hands in the air, flames appeared underneath the two women's feet.

Party of two jumping backwards, Hase lunged the spear forward. Multiple strikes dealt to the tall person, damage had been dealt to the towering figure. Backing away for a moment, another strike of the polearm had come at lightning speed. However, the strikes had not been enough. Purple projectiles appearing on the battlefield, a new challenge had presented itself. But such challenge was about to end within a split second. Tall woman doing an odd zoomed in dance, the tides were turning.

"Here comes the catch!" the woman shouted.

Die of water above the woman's head, an overwhelming amount of energy had rumbled throughout the ancient area. Arrows of hydro creation hitting in a frenzy, and spear blunting the enemy with full force, defeat had been on the horizon. Final deluge of water hitting the person, the enemy vanished within seconds.

Enemy not returning as the dream seconds turned into dream minutes, the two women looked at one another. Victory looking as though it had been on the horizon, the blue haired woman's heels turned to the left. Unknown person heading towards the stairs of the ancient ruins, Hase followed from behind. Group of two outside of his line of dream sight within seconds, the area had been empty.

Silence soon playing on repeat, the soldier let out an inaudible sigh. Nothing happening as the dream minutes continued, relief had washed over the hyena's back like a torrent of water. Perhaps, just maybe, the dream world was giving him a break for once.

Relief was a dead soldier on the battlefield within seconds.

"Let the flames of redemption rage!" a voice in an echo shouted.

Hearing the noise from behind him, the chimera turned his head. Enemy towering over him, the hyena squirmed about. Legs still unable to move, the young soldier's subconscious body shook on repeat. Movement being impossible, and no weapons upon his partially human person, defeat was the one, and only option.

Right hand reaching for the sky, a large red orb travelled towards the hyena at lightning speed. Red energy and uniform meeting, flames and his brown jacket became the best of friends. Uniform burnt to cinders within seconds, the chimera sunk to his currently hyena knees. Scream unable to form, the soldier closed the dream eyes. Defeat was holding him tight, safety had been left behind.

The world was crumbling beneath his feet.

***

One month had passed since the chimera had to do some odd jobs within Inazuma. Nothing of major note had happened within the young soldier's adult Fatui life. Deliveries throughout Teyvat, business affairs and training exchanging blows with one another, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Although, one oddity had occurred during one delivery.

Two deliveries taking him to an uncharted island off the coast of Starfell Valley, an unforgettable meeting had burned a hole within the middle of his currently dormant shark center of the brain. Sea lion chimera fighting for her property alongside its sister, the chimera had come to wonder: just how many chimeras were hiding from society? Knowing such question did not have an answer within reach, the young soldier put a pin in the question, for the moment.

Upon waking up from his tormented slumber, a labored scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his head. Uneasiness tying a rope around his neck, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. Hearing no Fatui groan in an echo, fear tied the rope tighter around his neck. Had he woken up late today? The water would become hotter for Her Majesty, if such were the case. Placing his glasses over his eyes, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

While dressing in his uniform, unease tied the rope around his neck further. Still not hearing any groans in an echo, sweat had formed upon his brow. Just how late had he woken up today? Surely, just maybe, the Agent was still coming. Closing the final button shut, the hyena headed towards the barricaded window. Snow raging about, the chimera took note of his barely visible surroundings. Seeing the sky to a slight degree through the glass pane, a sigh of relief released from the throat. The sky had been white. Coming to the realization it had been early morning hours, the hyena resumed his morning routine with due diligence.

Silence devouring the hyena whole, Siorc clicked his hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, the chimera turned his attention to the door. Surely, the Agent had to have still been coming. Snow looking deep enough to slow down movement, the hyena kept his attention on the door.

But no footsteps ever arrived. Silence was a deafening weapon of war. Placing his heelless shoes on his currently human feet, the soldier stepped outside the door. If the Agent were not coming, perhaps another subordinate within his jurisdiction could have still be around. Resolute on his decision, the hyena turned his head to the right and left.

Frantic turning about coming to an end, a sight to behold permeated within the early adult's damaged field of vision. On the door had been a note. Figuring every other door had the same note taped upon it, the hyena did not peer to the other doors nearby. Note written the same way it had always been, the soldier stared in silence at the words on the sheet in front of him.

"You have three days off," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing said. Seeing such words on the paper, the rope of fear wrapped around his stomach tight. Her Majesty, had she been planning something again? Every day feeling as though it had been looping, the Cryo Archon had to have been planning something sinister. Returning to the soundproof room, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment.

Dream flashing in his mind, another scream had bounced off and around the steel walls. His sister still fresh in the chimera's partially human mind, the hyena had one idea in mind, and one idea only. Hase, could someone have seen her recently? Not having searched for her in some time, an idea had loosened the ropes around his neck.

Rest of Teyvat being in the warmer months, the chimera knew where he could resume searching or her. The area in Mondstadt known as Windrise had tall trees that towered towards the sky. Knowing his sister loved climbing high places, perhaps, he would run into her there. Resolute on his decision, the soldier off duty removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his uniform pocket.

Orb opened into map form, the hyena placed his finger on the map. Odd greyed out waypoint labelled Windrise, the hyena tilted his head. Waypoint being inaccessible, the chimera dragged out a long sigh. Were there no close Teleport Waypoints near the area? He supposed nothing could be done if such were the case. Highlighting the waypoint within the Capital City of Mondstadt, the map had been dissipating into orb form.

As the teleportation to the capital city began, the chimera closed his eyes. Teleporting was still a blinding ordeal. Capital city almost upon him, thoughts of Windrise played on repeat within the chambers of his partially human brain.

The one member search party was back in session.

***

"That large tree in Windrise, surely, Hase has been there.
Orchard of trees rising to the sky, there is
No way she hasn't been there,
Even now after all these years, she still love high places. There is no
Doubt in my mind.
Even if she has not been there recently,
An answer could be waiting for me. If not,
Falcon Coast is right nearby. Maybe I am hoping too hard,

But I need to keep trying,
All and all, I want to see her once,
Really, honestly, truly.
Don't know if that is possible anymore, but I cannot give up. That is a certainty."

Upon reaching the capital city of Mondstadt through the Teleport Waypoint, Siorc turned his head to the right and left. The city of freedom was bustling with activity, as usual. Fatui Diplomats conversing with one another about recent events, the soldier reduced his walk to a tiptoe. Staircase near a windmill upon him within a few minutes, the soldier descended in silence. Woman praying near a fountain and coughing, the hyena kept heading towards the gate.

Bridge in front of him, the chimera continued to traverse slowly. Birds absent from the pathway, the soldier off duty picked up his walking speed a smidgeon. Three forks in the road, the chimera proceeded to the second pathway. Wooden wheel wedged into the grass, the hyena took a deep breath. If the path had been the wrong one taken, time would have been wasted.

Dirt road getting separated by a stray path of grass, the chimera kept walking. Tree within his damaged field of distanced vision, his currently human legs broke out into a sprint. The large tree was nearly upon him, only seventy meters left. Tree getting closer as the seconds raged onward, the soldier off duty took a deep breath.

Grass crunching beneath his heelless shoes, the hyena's sprint continued. Large tree a mere few seconds away, the chimera halted his sprint. Heart racing, the early adult took a deep breath. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed. Heartbeat returning to normal after a few minutes, the soldier off duty resumed his sprint. But, as the tree came closer, an oddity had presented itself.

Beside a small stone staircase had been a red statue with a winged figure holding an orb. The winged figure on the top of statue, had it been the Anemo Archon? The chimera did not know, but there had been no time for pondering. But another oddity had entered the battlefield as the tree was inching ever so closer.

Sitting by the large tree had been a short blue haired possible man with braids with a teal gradient. Green hat looking familiar, the soldier blinked. The drunkard that was drinking in the afternoon in the past, just what were they doing beside the large tree? Person rubbing their stomach, the soldier off duty turned his heelless shoes in the opposite direction. Did they want something to eat? He supposed he could search for an apple or two nearby. Singular fruit acquired on the ground, the hyena returned to the large tree.

Sober drunkard rubbing his stomach just like before, the chimera handed the fruit over. Person giving a small smile, no words had been said between the two. Sober possible man studying him, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. Was a singular apple not enough? But no such question would leave his lips. Person's study of him continuing with a silent roar, the soldier off duty kept silent.

Purple haired child handing him an apple, the bard placed his hand upon his chin. The child in front of him had been the one whose body had been used as a vessel within that domain a couple years back. Not wishing to bring up the past, his teeth bit into the apple as though he had not eaten in three days. Harp in hand, a small tune was about to hit the wind.

"Why, thank you lad," the sober drunkard said. "Care to hear a tune? I call this one, 'The Ballad of the Apple'." Fingers on the strings, the ballad was ready.

Seeing the person about to play a tune on a harp that matched their outfit, Siorc shook his head. Had the blue braided possible boy been a bard? He supposed it did not matter. Time was getting away from him as the seconds raged onward. Harp about to drown any words out he could have said, the soldier off duty took a deep breath. He had to ask the forbidden question now before sound was drowned out completely.

"Have you seen my sister?" the hyena asked forbiddingly, performance interrupted from starting. "She has short wavy green hair, and wears stub earrings." Person putting the harp away, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Was interrupting their performance before it began rude of him? If such were the case, he knew he had to apologize immediately. "I apologize for interrupting your performance." Bowing his head, a spark shot down his partially human spine. Rudeness was a disgraceful monster.

Possible bard tilting his head at his question, the chimera awaited the inevitable rejection. Had the person not seen Hase? Being used to never having any leads, the hyena waited in silence for the typical rejection to come his way, as it usually had.

"Not recently," the possible bard said in a musical tone. "But, since you gave me that apple..." Harp out in front of him again, a tune had begun to play.

Melodic tune bouncing off the wind, the soldier off duty let out a sigh. Did the possible bard only have one thought on his mind? But, he supposed if the tune being played was out of gratitude for the singular red fruit, he could give a quick listen. Tune continuing to entwine on the trees, the soldier off duty kept listening.

Tune coming to an end after awhile, the soldier mouthed a thank you. Bard not having an answer, the hyena looked off at the distance. Cliffside a small walk away, the chimera knew the next move he wished to make. The Cliffside in Galesong Hill, perhaps, just maybe, someone had to have seen her there. Grass in front of him, the soldier legs erupted into a sprint.

Taking note of a gust of wind off into the distance near the cliffsides, the chimera headed towards the phenomenon. Gust of wind within an old stone structure, the hyena's wind glider had been deployed behind him. Air thrusting him upward, the soldier glided towards the hill. Making his landing, the soldier off duty walked to the left.

As he kept walking, a particular sight had caught the chimera's eyes. Looking over the edge of the cliff had been a young woman a few centimeters taller than him. The young woman had long brown hair that went down to about her legs, and a red headband that complimented her hair nicely. Hands on her goggles, the chimera knew he had to make his forbidden question quick. Tapping on the woman's shoulder, the man waited in silence. Young woman turning around after a few seconds, the early adult made eye contact.

"Oh, hey there! Need my help?" the goggled woman asked. She sounded energetic. "Well, Outrider ----- is here to lend a hand!" A name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it.

Hearing the title outrider, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Dream from a while back flashing in his mind, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had the Outrider seen Hase recently? While the dream she had been in had been years prior, perhaps, just maybe, she had seen his sister in the mortal, waking world in the past. One percent being higher than zero, the early adult prepared the forbidden art of asking a question once again.

"Ma'am, have you seen my sister recently?" Siorc asked forbiddingly. "She has short green hair, and earrings." Question rolling out, the hyena turned his head to the left. If Her Majesty had heard him ask another question, his life would be over, for sure.

Outrider looking at him with momentary suspicious eyes, the chimera's heart skip another beat. The Outrider, was she going to turn him into the Knights of Favonius? Fatui insignias never being invisible on his jacket, he knew he deserved any suspicious looks he were to get from people. But such thoughts were unfounded. Outrider's face soon turning into a frown, rejection was about to reach his shark eardrums for the second time of the day.

"Oh, no, I haven't seen her recently, but," the Outrider said, energy littered in her voice. "I helped her get her gliding license in the past! She's a good kid." She then shifted her tone a bit to a more serious one. "But, hey, if you're looking for her, I'll be on the lookout, too. Leave it to me!"

Outrider offering her help, the hyena gave a small smile. Why was this young woman so nice? He supposed if he were to ever run into her again in the future, inquiring about Hase's whereabouts a second time could certainly come into fruition. No lead being given, however, the soldier off duty knew it was time to leave for the next area. Outrider extending out her kindness, a thank you was in order for her.

"Thank you, ma'am," Siorc said, voice barely audible. "I have to go."

Gratitude given, the chimera returned towards the wind current. Descending towards the ground, the soldier off duty pondered for a moment. Opening the orb back into map form, the soldier off duty studied the map in silence. Seeing an area on the map known as Falcon Coast, and epiphany had shot through the hyena's partially human brain. The beaches of Mondstadt, perhaps, just maybe, Hase could have been there. The warm weather was a perfect day for anyone to relax by the beach. Resolute on his decision, the hyena traversed towards the coast area.

Waiting by the coast was a monster in broad daylight.

Towards the end of the beach had been a scary sight to behold. Sitting by the water with the Acting Grand Master had been a person he had never wished to see at any point of time during his various search parties. Terrifying blonde pigtails and pointy ears looking ready to burn the world around them, scary red outfit and brown satchel with a keychain on the side. The Pyro Elf Girl of Doom was sitting by the ocean, menacingly.

Hilichurls making noise, the Acting Grand Master stepped away for a moment. Dandelion wind brushing the monsters away, screams caught on the wind. But such screams were soon drowned out by an explosive noise. Large explosion bursting into the ocean waters, the hyena sprinted to the closest rock nearby. The Pyro Elf Girl of Doom was a terrifying villain. Acting Grand Master soon returning, anger had entered the battlefield.

"----!" the Acting Grand Master shouted, exasperated tone in voice. A name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it. "What have I told you about blasting fish?"

Fish turned into food particles within seconds, the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom placed her hands behind her back. Bag swishing behind her back, the villain to all of fishkind was about to make her defiance known to the world. Knowing he could not leave from his spot until the two's conversation was over, the soldier off duty remained stationary. There was no way he could leave now. The Pyro Elf Girl of Doom was armed, and ready. Fish's worst enemy about to speak, the hyena moved towards the other side of the rock.

"Aww, but no one's here!" the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom pouted. Her defiance shook the waves. "Just once?" Her bag kept shaking from beside her.

Hand on the Acting Grand Master's forehead, the young woman let out a groan. Hearing such from the Knight, the young soldier groaned in agreement. The Pyro Elf Girl of Doom was the Knight's of Favonius' biggest problem, for sure. Acting Grand Master grabbing the fish villain's hands, the sea life's population was no longer about to be in danger within seconds.

"You know the rules, ----, no fish blasting," the Acting Grand Master said. She almost sounded like the villain's mother. "I'm taking you back to headquarters." Small hand in her large one, the two were about to exit, but such exit was halted within a second. Free hand pointing at a rock, the walk had not yet started.

"Mister Fatui!" the Pyro Elf Girl of doom exclaimed, pointing. "You look like that girl ----- trained!!" Her point of evil continued.

Hiding spot exposed, the chimera rose to his feet. He could feel his heart skip more than four beats. The Pyro Elf Girl of Doom had revealed his location for the entire coast population to hear. Acting Grand Master letting out another sigh, the soldier off duty gave a pitiful look. The Knight's hair had to have been greying because of this villainous child by now.

"----, no talking to strangers," the Acting Grand Master warned. She then turned to the hyena. "I apologize, young man, we'll be leaving." Knight and problem child exiting the area, the fish population had been saved.

Not sure what to make of what just happened, the chimera kept walking. Barely anyone around on the coast, the soldier off duty let out a somber sigh. Absolutely no generic people had been around, just like the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom had said. No leads being provided, the hyena sat down on the sand in silence.

Nightfall almost upon him, the hyena removed the proxy map from his pocket. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, he returned the map into orb form. Fast travel to the military barracks beginning within a split second, the chimera closed his eyes. Soundproof room upon him after a short walk, tiredness had begun to overtake him.

Sitting upon the ice cold floor, the soldier had begun to ponder. No one in Mondstadt had seen Hase recently. Perhaps, it had been time to give up on finding her in his former homeland. Hope dying in the snow outside, the chimera thought of the next area he could search. Idea coming to him after a half hour, the hyena's resolve returned.

The Wangshu Inn area of Liyue, and the Qingce Village. Perhaps, just maybe, someone had seen Hase there. Majority of elderly people living within Qingce Village, surely, at some point, Hase had helped out the elderly people within the area. Knowing it could have been a possibility, the early adult's decision had been made.

Glasses, hairpins and earrings removed, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Closing his eyes as the world of sleep were about to take him away, the thoughts played on repeat one final time as the world of tormented dreams invited him back in for the night.

Surely, tomorrow, he would finally get a true lead.

***

"Quite sure of it this time,
I'm certain, I'm going to get a lead.
No matter whether she still helps the elderly,
Going to the village will give me answers, surely,
Cannot think of anything
Else that could lead to clues. This has to be it, truly.

Very sure at this point, it has to be.
It has to be.
Looking for her in the inn may not lead to answers,
Looking for her elsewhere may not lead to any clues,
Although, I need to keep trying, I kneed to keep
Going. I need to find a lead,
Even if time is looping."

Waking up the next morning, the chimera would not falter. Favorite moon hairpins and earrings clipped into place, the hyena was ready for the next search party to resume. Figuring searching at the Wangshu Inn would have been the better area to traverse to first, the soldier opened up the proxy map within seconds. Noting the map towards Wangshu Inn only had one waypoint near the rooftop, the chimera shook his head. If he were to teleport to the Inn directly, he would cause problems, for sure. Highlighting the waypoint towards Guili Plains instead, the early adult pressed the teleport button. He supposed a little walking did not hurt.

Breezing through the plains area like lightning, the Wangshu Inn soon appeared within the early adult's heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Straight path being the only way to reach the area, the chimera kept walking. Bridge soon underneath his feet, a large feeling of deja vu hugged the chimera from behind. The other day had been almost the same as the current day at hand. Wooden bridge traversed, the one member search party was about to resume.

Ground floor of the inn upon him, and generic citizens of Liyue being abundant, repeat questions had been fired in quick succession. No one on the ground floor having answers, the soldier off duty proceeded towards the wooden staircase. But, as the chimera kept ascending, it had become clear to him within seconds. The stairs had been broken. Wood having multiple holes in it as he kept walking, an obstacle had made its rounds known.

Hearing a cacophony of voices as the broken stairs kept looking more disheveled, the chimera stopped walking, for a moment. Gap in the stairs soon noticeable, and voices ringing in his ears, the hyena moved his head upward. Standing on the other side of the broken stairs stood two individuals with incredibly round faces. One of the two of them looking angry at him, the hyena focused his attention on the ball of frustration first.

Staring at him in anger had been a person slightly taller than him. The person had spiky white hair with blue streaks in it that went down to about their shoulders, and light blue eyes and hat to match. Thick white eyebrows standing out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls, the man focused on the person's outfit. Male Adventurer's Guild outfit on the person, the hyena supposed sir would be the correct form of address. As his examination continued, something of note stood out to the early adult. Behind the person's back had been a long brown tail. Brown furred hands matching the tail behind him, the chimera had come to wonder: had the young man been a chimera, as well? Furred hands leading to any kind, guessing was beyond him. Stub turtle earring on the person's right ear glistening on the sunlight, the hyena turned his attention to the second person.

Standing next to the ball of anger had been a slightly taller person. The taller person had short white hair that went down to about the ear, but longer loose hair in the front side that went down to the person's shoulders. Light blue eyes matching the other young man's, it had come to him immediately. The two chimeras he had never seen before had been siblings. Freckles covering the face for miles, and fanged tooth sticking out, the soldier off duty studied the outfit next. Male Adventurer's Guild outfit on the person as well, and same furred hands out on public display, the chimera ended his examination.

Shorter young man looking at him, the soldier off duty let out a sigh. Was the young man about to yell at him again? Not really hearing what he had said as he was walking, he knew a world of yelling was about to grace his eardrums. Angry eyes looking at him again, the hyena prepared for the worst.

"Fer crying out loud, didn't ya hear me?" the shorter chimera said. Words spoken crudely. "The stairs are broken! Ya can't come over here!" He then turned to the taller person. "Feng, do somethin' will ya? Take somethin' out of yer hip pockets! Throw a seashell at him! That'll stop him!"

Hostilities making their rounds in the area, the person proclaimed as Feng turned their head towards the angry man. Shaking his head, the hyena stared in silence. Was the taller person about to tell the shorter person off? The chimera did not know, but he supposed he was about to find out. Taller person looking ready to speak, his stare in silence continued.

"I'm not going to do that, Linggui," Feng replied, irritated. His voice was deep, but flamboyant in tone. "It's already bad enough we're stuck doing people's chores today." He then turned to Siorc. "Kid, if whatever you need to do is so important, I'll help you across." Extending out his furred hand, he looked into the person's mismatched eyes. "Come here."

Seeing what was about to go down, the person proclaimed Linggui's mouth dropped open. Had their brother been so bored by their chores he was willing to help a stranger out? Frustration painting his cheeks a shade of blue, a protest was about to make its rounds in the area.

"Feng, what in the world are ya doin'?!" Linggui shouted. "Why are ya helpin' him? We're supposed to be fixin' the stairs!" But his cries were futile.

Furred hand extended outward, the hyena grabbed it as light as he could possibly allow. Gap bridged within seconds, the hyena bowed a thank you. Shorter chimera still looking at him with bouts of anger, the soldier ascended the staircase past the broken point, but the sound of voices picked up on the wind as quickly as it had disappeared.

"He looks like he some sort of urgent business," Feng replied to Linggui, shrugging. "Besides, judging from his outfit, he's going to get aggressive if we don't." Shrugging again, he turned to the Fatui once more. "So, I won't get in your way. Be careful climbing up." Returning his attention to Linggui one last time, he spoke to his kin again. "Now, come on, let's finish this commission so we can do a more interesting one."

Hearing Feng's assumption of him, Siorc shook his head. While he knew a majority of Fatui were aggressive in nature, he knew living life with aggression was not the way to go. Wood soon in the sibling's furred hands, the soldier off duty had begun to proceed towards the next round of stairs. Shorter chimera's voice picking up volume again, the hyena halted his walk.

"Fine, yer right, this commission is more important than fightin'," Linggui responded to his kin. "Good luck, or somethin', don't fall."

Strange granting of good luck given to him, the hyena ascended the wooden staircase. Multiple stairs rotted away, the chimera jumped over the holes as though he was competing in a sport that involved running and jumping. Top eventually reached, the hyena turned his head to the right and the left. Generic nobodies having no answer for him on the outside of the hotel, the soldier ascended the next staircase.

Inn finally reaching its indoor area, the chimera turned his head to the right and left again. As he studied the area, a particular person stood out amongst the crowd of generic nobodies. Standing towards the edge looking out towards the distance had been a young woman with dark skin. Brown hair with spikes and black outfit covering her barely there pants, the chimera tilted his head. The young woman, where had he seen her before? The early adult did not know, but perhaps, just maybe, she knew where Hase was. Tapping the young woman's spiky shoulder, the chimera waited.

Young woman eventually turning around, the chimera tilted his head again. Just where had he seen this woman before? No matter how much more he thought about it, no answer would come to him. Whoever she was, he knew he would not ask her. Her Majesty could be listening from anywhere in Teyvat, at any moment. Young woman looking at him, the hyena made eye contact.

"You lookin' a lot like Hase," the young woman said. Her words sounded casual. "She can sure feel the beat, let me tell ya."

Hearing the young woman's words, Siorc could feel his heart flutter. Had the girl been speaking in code? Whatever code she and Hase had with each other was no business of his. Code or not, he finally had his first lead of the day. Hase, could she have told the young woman where she was going? Desperation ripping him apart, he prepared himself to ask the forbidden question once again.

"You've seen Hase, young lady?" the chimera asked. Had young lady been too casual? Not knowing the young woman's age, it was too difficult to determine. "Did she tell you where she was going?!" A tone of desperation had been in his voice. Surely, Hase had to have told a more casual person her next whereabouts.

Young woman looking dejected, the soldier off duty's face had become crestfallen. Had Hase not told the young woman her whereabouts either? Knowing another round of rejection was about to reach his eardrums, the chimera prepared for the inevitable answer to make its roar known.

"Aww, shoot, I should have asked her, I'm sorry, purple," the young woman responded, nickname given. "Are ya lookin' for her? If I weren't headin' off to Fontaine for a tour, I'd love to help."

Trail going cold as soon as it had warmed up, the chimera could feel a wave of defeat rip him apart from the inside. Bowing a thank you to the young woman, the soldier off duty headed inside the inn. Defeat continuing to tear at him, the hyena stared at the inn stairs in silence. The rooftop, he needed a moment away. Away from the failure, away from everything. Boss behind the countertop, the early adult proceeded to ask wordless permission.

Signing the word permission on private display, the soldier off duty pointed upward. Inn boss granting permission came with an odd suggestion, however. Told to bring Almond Tofu to the roof, the chimera removed his mora pouch from the back pocket. Almond Tofu plate placed in his hands, the man proceeded to the roof in silence.

Rooftop barren of a singular person, the chimera placed the Almond Tofu besides him. Wangshu Inn boss telling him he should leave the plate of tofu out, the soldier off duty did as instructed. Sitting on his possibly human rear, the hyena removed his glasses. Head on his currently human knees, he could feel his will slip away with every second passing.

Lifting his head after awhile, the hyena noticed within an instant after his glasses had been put back on. Tofu being missing, the chimera investigated the situation. Sitting on the roof with the Almond Tofu had been the Yaksha. Yaksha looking angry, he knew it was his time to leave. Defeat continuing to tear his insides out, the hyena cancelled his departure. His will was continuing to vanish. Yaksha beginning to speak, the soldier off duty stared at the mountain demon's eyes lifelessly.

"What do you want?" the Yaksha grunted. His arms had been crossed.

Predictable answer bouncing off his eardrums, the chimera placed his hands in front of him. No longer having any energy to bother with words, the hyena placed his hands by his chest. Two hand parallel to one another, asking permission to stay up on the roof had been signed on private display. But, he knew if the Yaksha did not want him to stay in the same area as him, he would have to leave. Disrespecting the sole remaining Yaksha of Liyue had to have been a sin within the nation. Yaksha dragging a heavy sigh, the soldier off duty stared in silence.

"Fine," the Yaksha grunted. "You can stay."

Permission granted, the chimera removed his glasses once again. Head upon his knees, a sea of thoughts flooded the hyena's dormant shark center brain. No matter where he went, or who he asked, not a single person ever had any leads on Hase's whereabouts. Search always remaining cold, he could feel his resolve die like the four other Yaksha.

Shaking his head, Siorc stood up. Why had he allowed himself to sulk around? He had no time for such acts of sadness. Glasses back on, the soldier slapped his cheeks. Feeling his will return to him a smidgeon, the soldier off duty opened up his proxy map. Looking at the northern area, an area near Qingce Village stuck out to him. Recalling the area of Wuwang Hill was where spirits were most commonly found, an odd thought rolled pebbles around the early adult's partially human brain.

Parents appearing in his dream a little while back in the mundaneness of his current obedient life, the young soldier had another epiphany. Wuwang Hill, surely, just maybe Hase had to have been there recently. Highlighting the waypoint nearest to the area, the fast travel to the area nearest to the spiritual hillside had begun.

Teleport Waypoint leading to a body of water, the chimera let out a gulp. If Wuwang Hill were on the other side of the water, sinking to the bottom of the pool of water would happen, in an instant. Swimming not being his strong suit, the young soldier walked off into the opposite direction. Observing the map closer, the hyena let a tired sigh escape the throat. The only way to reach the hill was to climb. Grey stones upon him, the soldier off duty ascended. Cliffside scaled, the hyena entered the next area.

Small forest with blue wisps everywhere, the hyena placed his hands in front of him. The dead deserved respects to be paid to them. Prayers given to the lost souls within the hill, the chimera kept walking. Wisps everywhere he looked, the early adult could feel an odd emotion brew inside him. His parents, could they have been one of the blue wisps floating around? Shaking his head, he kept walking. There was no way his parent's souls had been within Liyue.

As his traverse through Wuwang Hill continued, a familiar face had been surrounded by multiple wisps. Walnut colored haired woman in Wangshen Funeral Parlor attire with flaming butterfly wings from behind her, the soldier off duty closed his eyes. Fire was still a terrifying element, indeed. Whiff of flames leaving after a few minutes, the soldier made eye contact. Not wishing to speak to the Funeral Parlor Director with words, his hands were out in front of him. Signing the word sister, he continued keeping eye contact.

"Aiya? You again? I haven't seen your sister, sorry! Business is booming!" the Funeral Parlor Director said. She paused for a moment. "Would you like to purchase a coffin in her size?" Joke making its rounds, the Funeral Parlor Director made a strange noise.

Hearing the Funeral Parlor Director's joke, the chimera backed fifteen steps away. What a morbid sense of humor she had. He supposed, if she had not seen Hase, it was time to head to the village. Qingce Village being in the northeast corner of the map, climbing had once again, been the hyena's only option. Cliffsides scaled, the next area had been reached.

Colorful cliifsides off in the distance, the soldier off duty took a deep breath. The elderly, would he be disturbing them with his presence in the village? If he were disturbing any of the wise people of many years, he would end his search party within a second, no questions asked. Small building upon him, the hyena entered slowly.

Elderly community leader claiming she had never seen Hase, the soldier went through the first exit. Seeing a person the panda chimera once took him to treat him to a meal, the hyena fired the repeat question to the generic woman. Stir Fry seller not having ever seen Hase, either, the early adult moved forward. Another bridge crossed, the soldier off duty turned to the right and left.

No one except a child around in the area, the chimera exited towards the gate. Evening sky getting darker, leads had begun to look like an impossibility. Long stone staircase beneath his feet, the soldier descended. Knowing he could no longer get any answers, he knew it was almost time to leave. Return to the permafrost north for the evening. But, as he proceeded towards the end of the stone stairs, another particular face had met his.

Short pink haired woman with antlers for ears next to the wooden bridge above the water, the hyena backed ten steps away. Red book beside her black pants, a gulp had released from the esophagus. Liyue's number one legal advisor, was she about to send him away? He knew if he did not comply, a world of fire awaited him. Readying to leave, the hyena removed the waypoint, but words stopped him in his currently human feet tracks in an instant.

"I must say, you look very similar to someone I taught a bit about the law," the Legal Advisor said, right finger on her chin. "Hmm, perhaps it is a coincidence."

Hearing the Legal Advisor mention he resembled someone, Siorc's ears perked. Liyue's Legal Advisor, she had to have meant Hase. Feeling another lead about to form, the chimera took a deep breath. Surely, Hase had to have told a legal advisor where she was headed next? Taking another deep breath, the chimera prepared himself to ask the forbidden question once more.

"Do you mean Hase, miss?" the chimera asked, desperation evident in his voice. Was miss the proper form of address? The hyena hoped such would be the case. "Did she tell you where she was going?!" He could feel his desperation grow with every word spoken. Surely, Hase had to have told a legal advisor where she was headed next. Many more questions swam around in his head, but no more would leave his lips. Confidentiality between clients was the law for the world of legal advisors.

"I normally would not disclose the things my clients tell me, but," the Legal Advisor said, voice quieting down into a whisper. "But she told me she was heading to Sumeru next." Her eyebrows then shifted. "I'd like to ask you something, young man." Her green eyes met his mismatched one. "Is your sister a missing person? I have many suspicions to believe so."

Odd inquiry bouncing off the wooden bride, the chimera backed four steps away. The legal advisor, just what did she know that he didn't? Were legal advisors even allowed to deal with the cases of a missing person? Knowing he did not have time to deal with the legal side of his sister's disappearance, the hyena shook his head. Getting a legal team involved would only push Hase further away, for sure.

"Alrighty, but, if you ever need my help, here's my business card," the Legal Advisor said. Business card placed in his hand, she started walking. "I hope you are able to find her."

Business card in his hand, the chimera pocketed the piece of cardboard within seconds. Getting legal help involved was not going to come into fruition. Legal advisor soon leaving the area, the word Sumeru echoed in his eardrums. Biggest lead provided to him of all time, the soldier off duty knew his next course of action. Evening sky darkening, the chimera highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks within an instant.

Military barracks upon him within seconds, the soldier travelled through the dark hallways. Steel walled room soon upon him, the chimera sat upon the ice cold floor. Sumeru echoing through his shark eardrums on repeat, the path before him cemented itself into place.

Opening the proxy orb back into map form, the hyena highlighted the Sumeru section of the map. Studying the map with due diligence, a subdued wave of confidence leaked through the chimera's pores. The legal advisor, if she had seen Hase recently, surely, she could have still been in the Dendro Nation of Wisdom, at the moment. Closing the map back into orb form, the idea further cemented itself into place.

Uniform removed, and hairpins and earrings away, Siorc slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses removed, the ideas kept flooding in like an ocean. Final day off upon him tomorrow, the next step of his search party was clear to him. Trail no longer cold, the hyena was ready for the search party to move nations.

Closing his eyes, the thoughts would not cease, for even a moment. Thoughts of Sumeru playing on repeat as the world of sleep were about to take him away, the soldier repeated the information to himself one final time as the world of dreams was about to call him back in.

The Legal Advisor, she had given him a lead. The trail had been hot, like the terrifying element of fire. Last day off of his holiday upon him tomorrow, the soldier knew what had been in store for him in the final day of his one member search party tomorrow. Sleep finally taking him, the thoughts put themselves to bed with him.

The one member search party was moving to Sumeru.

Hase could finally be in reach.

This was written after Sumeru had come out, so, for a change, it's real Sumeru.

16. Siorc Attempts to Find Hase 7: Sumeru Edition

"Surely, someone in Sumeru has seen Hase.
Unless that Legal Advisor is
Mistaken. Maybe she is. After all,
Everything is looping, repeating, reversing.
Recycling back to yesterday.
Ultimately, looking never hurts

She could be anywhere,
Everywhere in Teyvat is a possibility.
All and all, I just need to keep looking.
Right when leads are finally forming
Cannot let this slip by me
Hase might be in Sumeru,

Perhaps she is close by
Answers have led me here,
Reversing and looping time won't stop me.
Today is the day, I'll find her.
Yes, I'm confident. We'll meet.

Ordinarily, hope is not inside me,
For leads are a broken seed.

This is the most I have ever gotten,
Het whereabouts are upon me.
Really, today is the day.
Even if time is looping, I will find her.
Even if time is reversing, I'll see her. Surely."

The sound of chilling wind roared outside with a fervor. The howl of the bitter wind raged onward as the morning marched about like always. But, there had been no groans in an echo throughout the military barracks as the chilling wind hit every window with a tough beat. Another month long snowstorm awaited the permafrost north and its citizens. Nothing had been out of the ordinary for frozen northern land.

The cold wind hitting the window had been more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Not hearing any groans from the other military barracks, the hyena supposed his day off had not been suddenly cancelled, for any reason. Knowing such had to have been the case, the hyena had rose from the uncomfortable bed. Sights still set on Sumeru, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

While dressing in his uniform, the hyena turned his head towards the steel walls. Liyue's Legal Advisor, she had believed Hase was a missing person. Removing her business card from his previous day's pocket, the soldier off duty read the words on the card in a careful manner. Could she know more about the situation at hand? But, the chimera shook his head. There was no reason to get a legal advisor involved in his search party.

As he put on his heelless shoes, the hyena had begun to wonder further. Would anyone in Sumeru know Hase's whereabouts? He knew, despite clues leading to her having been there recently, time had felt as though it had been repeating, as of late. But, letting any clue go to waste would break the hourglass in two, for sure. Asking the people of Sumeru if they had seen her was the only option at his constantly transforming hands.

Resolute on his decision, the chimera clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Favorite moon set in his hair and ears, a sense of power flowed through the hyena. Today, for sure, the leads could finally end the search party once and for all. Everything on, the hyena opened Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb into map form.

Pressing the Sumeru button on the side of the map, the chimera observed the area with due diligence, but the soldier off duty titled his head at the sight before him. Had there been far more Teleport Waypoints on the map than last time? But, the hyena shook his head for a second time. He supposed he was just remembering the entirety of the Nation of Wisdom's map incorrectly.

Continuing his study of the area, the hyena highlighted one of the Sumeru City teleport waypoints on his hacked map. Pressing the confirm button, the soldier closed his eyes as the fast travel to the capital city of wisdom began. Main civilization of the Nation of Dendro almost upon him, thoughts about the area looped on repeat within the chambers of his partially human brain.

The one member search party was about to continue.

***

"Bogart is a terrible name!
Oh, of all the years I've been alive, the
Retched, foreign name my mother gave me won't leave.
I've told her so many times! Change my
Name to Xexes, please! The name of a warrior,
Gracious fighter! It suits someone like me!

Don't know what her problem is, she doesn't
Agree! 'Bogart is a lovely Mondstadt name!'
You don't understand!
So many people look at me funny!

Oh, the chimerity!
For crying out loud, at least listen to me!

At least let me go by Xerxes.

Don't understand her fixation on foreign nations,
Every time her and dad go on their vacations,
She insists on taking our home culture to a one-eighty!
Even in this desert world,
Ruins and all, she's always this way!
The foreign name is more than enough!
For what it's worth, I can't change her.
Or her feelings.
Look, she's always been a culture nut.
Knowing I cannot change her,

All I can do is keep up with my guild work.
Doesn't matter what I think,
Vehemently, I will keep trying to convince her.
Every day, though, she's not budging.
Never moving away from the name she gave me.
That's just how it is.
Every time I bring it up, she dismisses me.
Regretfully, I remain Bogart, 'an orchard',
Ultimately synched to my twin's name, Waiola, 'a violet flower.'
Regretfully, that is Sumeru chimera culture, our names being a sentence

Guess she still remembered that when she named me.
Utmost and ultimately,
Intricately and interwoven.
Laced like a bow to the side of me.
Don't suppose there is anything I can ever do to convincer her,

My mother is a stubborn black panther, like me.
Everyone in the Hakimi family is a warrior of stubbornness.
Maybe fighting stubborn with stubborn is a losing battle
But, whatever, work is upon me.
Every day has just been boring chores lately.
Really, can't something interesting happen? Chores are a snore!"

Upon reaching the capital city of Sumeru through the Teleport Waypoint, the hyena observed his surroundings. The city was no longer grey and colorless like hit had been previously. Merchant booths everywhere to be seen on the ground with far more colorful awnings than anywhere else in Teyvat, everything had been bustling with activity. It was almost as if, in a world outside Teyvat, Sumeru had been a finished nation accessible to the public.

Multiple people walking around the city, everything had been a river of sounds. The soldier off duty could not help but feel it had always been this busy within the nation, but perhaps he had never noticed during his various trips. Always been ordered to head for the rainforest, or the desert area, the main city of Sumeru had rarely been his basis of operation during his various workdays in the Dendro Nation of Wisdom.

Bustling city's noises swallowing him whole, the soldier walked to the city's entrance. But, a peculiar sight greeted his bespectacled eyes as he kept looking forward. Everyone native to the region had some sort of green earring hooked up to their left ear. Had the green earring been the resource of knowledge he had heard about various times before? Witnessing such object, the soldier off duty gulped. If Her Majesty knew Sumeru's knowledge was a physical resource that was limited, she would take advantage of such convenience, for sure.

Citizens soon clearing out, a moment of silence had hit the merchant road. Having a moment, a flood of repeat questions had been fired off in succession. Young girl talking about fortunes claiming to have never seen Hase, the press of an invisible rewind button on a Kamera repeated the question a second time.

Heading upward onto the ramp, the question had looped on constant repeat. First merchant shaking his head, the chimera let out a defeated sigh. But, he knew he could not give up just as soon as he got there. Someone surely, generic looking or not, had to have seen her in the capital city area. Two other merchants shaking their head, a suggestion had been proposed to him on public display.

One merchant suggesting she could look through her Akasha Terminal for any information on a missing person, the hyena nodded. Green field soon covering her eyes, the hyena's mismatched eyes grew wide. Had the green ear piece been able to grab information from anywhere in Teyvat? Generic woman soon bearing bad news, early defeat had begun to hug him from behind. Knowledge was a limited resource in Sumeru, indeed.

Turning back around towards the direction he came, the chimera looked to the right and left. Ramps and stairs everywhere he looked, the hyena slapped his cheeks with his currently human hands. He had to keep going. He could not let the lack of leads within the city take control of his unstable body and mind. Heading up the ramp in the east direction, the early adult kept walking.

Seeing a small building that looked similar to the Mondstadt Adventurer's Guild, the hyena turned his attention to the left. But, an obstacle had soon blocked the way. Two people with long black tails standing around the counter looking like they had been gathering information, the chimera kept his patience. Whoever had been in the area first deserved their turn uninterrupted.

Group of two soon meeting his eyes, the hyena examined the two. Standing to the left side of the counter had been a young woman slightly taller than him. The young woman had dark brown skin like various of the merchants in the area, and light brown eyes, the color of dark iron chunks littered throughout Teyvat as a part of nature. Deep red scar in the center of her face, the hyena could feel a sort of intimidating coursing through his partially human veins. The young woman was bold for being able to display her scars without hiding them, for sure. Scar about to take attention away from everything, the chimera focused on the young woman's hair. The young woman had long teal hair that went down to about her backside. Front sides being curly and tied into two thin pigtails, and curly parts draping towards her chest, the soldier off duty looked at the top side of her head. Braid going through her triangular bangs parted to the left and right a standout amongst everything screamed at the hyena. On the top of the young woman's head had been two black, furry, triangular ears matching her dark complexion and thin tail from behind her, he had begun to ponder. Could the young woman have been a black panther chimera? Possibility being likely, he looked at her outfit, for a moment. Dark black women's Adventurer's Guild outfit matching her ears and tail almost exactly, the man ended his examination.

Moving his head towards the right, the chimera examined the second person. Standing to the right side of the counter had been a young man slighter shorter than the young woman by two centimeters. The young man had short, spiky light royal blue hair that went down to about his shoulders. Hair in the center having what looked like bald patches in the center, the hyena recalled an odd memory. Had the hairstyle been known as corn brows? The hyena did not know, but he supposed it was rude to ask a stranger about it. Black triangular ears matching the person next to him, and brown eyes the exact same shade as the young woman, the early adult had come to a conclusion. The group of two had to have been related in some sort of way. Black Adventurer's Guild outfit on him and odd looking white skirt that did not look anything like the rest of his outfit going down to about his knees, the early adult ended his examination.

Seeing the long white skirt on the shorter possible panther chimera, the hyena had come to wonder. Would addressing them both as ma'am be the correct form of address? He supposed he would find out in due time. Taller person looking ready to speak, the chimera looked into the young woman's brown eyes.

"Well, hello there, foreigner," the possible black panther girl said. Her voice had the accent of Sumeru hinted throughout her words. "Are you looking for someone?" She extended her hand, placing it in front of the stranger. "If you want, we can help you! My name is Waiola!"

Hand out in front of him, the hyena extended his hand, as well. Hand shake completed, the word help ringed in his inhuman eardrums. Would it truly be alright, accepting help from others? Always searching for Hase alone, dragging other people into his search parties had never come into fruition before. But, he supposed, having someone guide him around Sumeru wouldn't hinder matters. Nodding at the person named Waiola, the chimera prepared himself, but another voice soon joined the battle.

"Come on, help look for someone?" the other possible panther chimera asked, irritated. "I want action!" Noticing the other person had been looking at his skirt, his eyebrow twitched a little. Was the foreigner about to judge him? "Hey, what are you looking at?!" he asked in an accusatory tone. "I know I'm in a skirt, but I'm still a man! A queen, what have you! But, I'm still able to fight, and I'm good at it!"

Siorc backed two steps away as the young man's voice echoed on the wind. He wished he had as much confidence as this person had while wearing a skirt in public. But, he supposed confidence was a sinking ship at the bottom of the oceans of Liyue. Referring to himself as man, would sir be the correct form of address after all? Feeling as though the man had taken offense to him observing his looks, the soldier off duty bowed his head in apology.

"Bogart, be nice," Waiola sighed. "Katheryne doesn't have work for us, so why don't we help him?"

Bogart crossed his arms at his twin's suggestion. Helping people that involved no action to speak of was an incredibly boring affair. But having no action oriented work had been commonplace, for the past few weeks. The rainforest area of Sumeru had been too peaceful for its own good. Such was the nature of the world of scholars he had been native to.

Noticing the disdainful look on Bogart's face, the hyena almost turned his feet towards the direction he came. Maybe it would be better if he just left to look on his own. But, hearing Waiola again suggest to help him, the chimera remained stationary. A local helping him look around the area would certainly help him remember how to get around the next time he would have to traverse through Sumeru for whatever orders Her Majesty were to give him in the future. Bogart soon responding to Waiola, the hyena kept his currently human feet forward.

"Fine, I'll help," Bogart replied reluctantly. "But, I'm fighting any monsters that come my way!"

Group of two agreeing to help him, the hyena opened up his Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb into map form. While he knew he wasn't supposed to show Her Majesty's technology easily, no locations within Sumeru had been something he had known the names of. Zooming the map out to the lowest possible point, an area of particular intrigue stuck out to the chimera. Towards the east side of the map had been a large location known as Avidya Rainforest. Perhaps, just maybe, there had been people in the large area that could have seen Hase. Pointing to the right, he looked at both Waiola and Bogart's eyes to the best of his ability.

Seeing the young foreign stranger take out a strange looking map, Waiola followed where their finger had been pointing. If it was the Avidya Rainforest the stranger had wished to go to, she would happily oblige, but a more pressing issue had been at hand. She had yet to know the stranger's name. The first form of formalities was always the most important one, for sure.

"You want to head to Avidya Rainforest first? That's fine with me," Waiola responded. "But, could you tell me your name?"

Siorc jumped four steps back upon being asked for his name. Even as the years went on, he knew he wasn't supposed to give his name away so casually anymore as one of Her Majesty's Fatui. But, since he knew their names, it was only fair to give them his own. Taking a deep breath, the hyena prepared himself to say the forbidden sentence.

"My name is Siorc," he replied, voice barely audible. Forbidden or not, not introducing himself had to have been a rude gesture.

All formalities given, the two possible panther siblings stepped in front of him, as the city had slowly begun to get farther away, the hyena could only help but begin to wonder. City of scholars all but completely behind him, the thought had only begun to get stronger as the world of rainforests had only begun to creep closer with every passing second.

Could the Avidya Rainforest be the one the fawn chimera resided in?

***
"Although nature and I are on a break, the
Vast greenery of the rainforest is calling me.
If it were any other timeframe, I would explore at my own leisure, surely.
Don't want to be reminded of that incident,
Yes, nature and I are seeing other people.
After all, I am going through here for information only.

Rainforests in Sumeru are seemingly colossal,
At least one person has seen Hase, probably.
If at least one person has seen her, that lead won't have been
For nothing.
Of all places, this has to be it. Hase
Really loved high places when we were children.
Everywhere in this side of Sumeru is a sea of trees.
Sea of high places.
This has to be it. I'm certain."

Entrance to the rainforest reached after about an hour or so, the hyena examined the area with due diligence. Cave entrance glowing from behind him, the soldier off duty observed the skyline. Sea of green everywhere he looked, some peculiarities in the land of green before him and the group of two. Everywhere he looked had been high looking cliffsides with various trees off to the skies. Cave entrance not looking anything like the forest Parisa had been located in, he knew the area had to have been a different rainforest altogether. If such were the case, running into them would not be a possibility at hand.

Seeing a green haired woman with a braid similar to Waiola's heading towards a waterfall, the hyena looked at the party of the two. Stepping in front of them, the soldier off duty walked towards the waterfall. Tall generic woman with glasses walking into a cave, the hyena followed inside in silence. While he knew he would get looked at with major disdain for doing such, an apology would come full circle, if necessary. Waiola soon saying something, all eyes had soon darted his way.

Young woman's eyes beneath the lenses looking like they had many suspicions, words had escaped the chimera. Fear beginning to eat him like a plate of pita pockets, the hyena put his hands in front of him. Thumb under on his jaw, the chimera moved his right hand and tapped it down onto the left. Sister signed on private display, sweat had begun to pour down his backside like a waterfall. Seeing various books inside the hollowed out cave, the sweat had only begun to pour down faster. He had to have disturbed the young woman's studies.

"I'm sorry, I haven't seen your sister," the young woman said, shaking her head. "You should try asking the forest rangers."

Young woman soon returning to her studies, the chimera exited the cave. Feeling a slight wave of guilt push him into the damp water, the hyena stared off into the distance. He had certainly disturbed someone who had been studying, for sure. Waiola looking his way, a world of judgement was about to shoot him in the chest with an arrow, for sure.

"Well, maybe -------- knows something," Waiola said, walking in front of Siorc. "Follow me! But, be prepared to climb up some large trees. There's no easy way around here."

Waiola and Bogart soon in front of him, the hyena followed behind like a duckling following from behind the mother in a pond. Seeing some sort of civilization above the trees in the distance, the chimera had known for certain. People and nature in Sumeru had been closely linked to one another. If nature and he had not been a break, the area would become a prime visiting spot on his days off, for sure.

Small damp area near a waterfall soon crossed, a young woman in hunter's attire had soon stood stationary within his field of damaged vision. Young woman calling herself a Forest Watcher, the chimera tilted his head. Had there been dangerous monsters within the Avidya Forest? He supposed no matter where he had gone in Teyvat, monsters were everywhere to be seen.

Young Forest Watcher saying she remembers Hase, the chimera could feel a sense of relief. At least one person within the area had seen her at some point. Large tree soon scaled like a cliffside, a small house surrounded by a group of three Forest Rangers had engulfed the party of three. Forest ranger, cook, mushroom picker and elderly man revealing they had remembered Hase, a small amount of relief flooded the early adult. Had any of them known where she had been? Asking about her whereabouts, hope had formed a balloon. But, the balloon had soon popped.

Group of four saying they did not know, the chimera could feel defeat begin to nibble on his ear. But, hope had soon held him tight once again. Forest Ranger near the tree house saying his leader had been deeper in the forest with a trainee collecting Nilotpala Lotus, the next long walk had been upon him. The Forest Watcher leader, could he have more information on Hase's whereabouts than the generic nobodies higher above ground?

Scaling back downward, the world of damp waters soon awaited the hyena. Odd looking green mushrooms with a spring underneath it that looked like they could be bounced on near a tree, the chimera kept note of such phenomenon in the back of his partially human mind. Perhaps the mushrooms with springs could cut out some extra climbing.

Soon guided towards a rather damp side of the forest, an unusual sight soon greeted the party of three. Picking yellow lotuses from lily pads in the water had been a group of two people. Standing about in a strict pose had been a young man slightly taller than him. The young man had black hair with light green highlights, and emerald green eyes to match. Large furry black ears on the top of his head standing out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls, the chimera had instantly begun to wonder. Had this person been a chimera? Could he have been related to Waiola and Bogart, in some way? But the hyena shook his head. There was no way; his ears were far bigger than theirs. Skin lighter as well, maybe the two could have been distant relatives. He knew not all families were all the same. But, the possibility had soon been zero. Tail from behind him looking like a completely different species, the thought of relations had died completely. His tail, was it the tail of a dog? Forest Watcher outfit on him, the chimera turned to the other person.

Standing in the water looking like she was about to drop the bag in her hands into the water had been a young teenage girl slightly shorter than him. The young girl had light green hair that went down to about her chest, and purple eyes that looked nervous. Brown forest ranger outfit upon her with long yellow drapes, and brown stocking and fancy looking stockings, the hyena ended his examination. But, as soon as he had finished, the sound of a loud splash echoed throughout the area with a loud roar.

"------! You need to be more careful when handling the bag of medicines!" the taller man scolded. A name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it. "Nilotpala Lotuses are fragile!"

"I'm sorry, Master --------!" the young lady responded, bowing her head. "I'll be more careful!" Picking the bag up from the water, a nervous look had soon been on her face.

Seeing the young girl shake, the chimera placed his hand on his chest. He did not know why, but he could feel the young woman had experienced various hardships in her life. Could it have been his imagination? His parents had always told him a person's eyes had said a lot about them. Furry eared man soon turning his way, the early adult gave eye contact. But, his eyes had been on Waiola and Bogart. Conversation soon about to begin, the hyena excused himself. Whatever the man had to say to the two of them was not his business.

"Hello there, Waiola and Bogart," the furry ear man greeted, but another voice had soon joined the battle.

"Hey, Waiola and Bogart!" the young girl also greeted. Waving her hand about, friendliness hit the lily pads in the water.

Everyone greeting one another, the soldier off duty felt a wall soon in front of him. Everyone had been acquainted with one another in some way. He was a stranger amongst the familiar. Rarely having duties in Sumeru beyond the usual areas, he supposed such was a given. Being a Fatui as well, anyone willing to get to know him had to have been very few and far in between. But Waiola's words would soon change such assumption.

"Hello, Master --------, ------," Waiola greeted. Her left hand had been moving up and down as she spoke. "My friend Siorc here has a question he'd like to ask you."

Siorc's eyebrow twitched. Had Waiola just said he was her friend? Friend was too strong of a word for someone he had only just met a few hours before. But, he supposed it was just a way of formalities. Furry eared man and young woman soon having their eyes on him, the hyena took a deep breath. The early adult prepared himself for the forbidden art of asking questions once again.

"Have you two seen my sister Hase?" Siorc asked, desperation evident in his voice. "She has short, curly green hair and wears earrings."

Taking notice the Forest Watcher's furry ears had been moving about on his head a lot, the hyena lowered his head. Had he not heard him? He knew his voice had been almost too quiet to hear sometimes. But, it had to have been rude to ask if he had heard him. Furry eared man's gloved hand soon on his face, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Did he have a bad experience with her? Not all people were meant to get along, he supposed.
Forest Watcher looking ready to answer, the early adult gave him his full attention.

"Your sister was a Forest Ranger for awhile, and she was quite the stubborn burden sometimes," the furry eared man responded, high irritation in his voice. "I told her to start off as a trainee, but she insisted that wasn't good enough!"

The hyena could feel mountains of sweat submerge him like a tidal wave in the ocean. Trail remaining hot, for the moment, the chimera had come to wonder in an instant. Just how recent had Hase been in the rainforest? Feeling another forbidden question begin to form on his lips, the early adult took another long, deep breath. Perhaps, just maybe, she had told the lead Forest Watcher her whereabouts.

"Did she tell you where she was going?" Siorc asked, tone of desperation growing in his voice. Sure, Hase had to have told someone she had been working for where she was headed next.

Forest Watcher leader folding his arms across his chest, a wave of defeat soon crashed over the hyena. Had Hase not told him here whereabouts either? Knowing another round of rejections was about to grace his shark eardrums, the chimera prepared for the inevitable answer to make its roar known.

"No, she did not tell me her whereabouts," the furry eared man answered, sighing. There was a feel of a fatherly tone in his voice. "And, quite frankly, I felt it was best to not ask her." But another voice soon cut in like a random battle disturbing the peace.

"Hase and I became great friends!" the young forest ranger exclaimed happily. "But, she also didn't tell me where she was going. I'm sorry I couldn't be a little more useful!" Bowing her head in apology, the Forest Watcher leader had soon grabbed the bag from behind her.

Forest Watcher leader and his trainee soon leaving the area with a bag of future medicine, a long walk around the Avidya Forest had begun. Damp area being rather endless, nothing but plants had soon been upon the group of three. No Forest Watchers or Forest Rangers within the damper areas, the three member search party kept walking.

No people anywhere within the deepest parts of the forest, the chimera could feel defeat close walls around him. The trail had begun to grow cold. There was no way there could have possibly been around in the area. Sumeru's entire right side of the map being a series of only rainforests, the Forest Rangers had to have been scattered throughout the nation in their respective stations of work.

Tall yellow flowers looking as though they had grown undisturbed by human activity, and large trees looking tropical in nature, the chimera let out a a soft sigh. Even though nature and he were seeing other partially human people, he could not help but feel enamored by the Avidya Forest, even a little. Waiola and Bogart soon turning around towards the direction they came in, the soldier off duty kept following from behind.

Waiola soon informing him they would be returning to Sumeru City, the hyena kept following from behind. Sea of trees and water soon becoming various mountain ranges, the soldier off duty let out a somber sigh. Another set of failures was upon him within the city of scholars, for sure. Filed of orange flowers upon him, the chimera walked in a careful manner. The city's entrance was soon to be upon him once again.

City once again upon him, a strange suggestion had come his way. Being told they were heading for a tavern, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. He had no reason to question a local's judgement. Door with vases next to it soon opened, a world of various delicacies was soon in front of him.

Heading towards the second floor, various customers had been seated everywhere. Many of them looking man drinks in, the hyena took a deep breath. The drunk customers, surely they would not remember him asking, anyway. Asking about his sister on repeat to the many wasted individuals, various drunken rejections had echoed in his inhuman eardrums. Snapping his currently human fingers, time had been wasted, for sure. But another sight would soon add more time wasted to the nonexistent clock.

Bogart soon sitting down at one of the tavern tables, the chimera shook his head. Possible panther chimera already looking deeply settled at the table, wasted time had begun to drip like water on the floor. Had he only been taken to the tavern because Bogart had been hungry? He supposed such could have been the case. Everyone in the world had their own mealtime intervals; he had no reason to raise any complaints. Complaints were not allowed to him as a Fatui Soldier, to begin with.

"You'll pay for our meals," Bogart demanded. But another voice soon cut in.

"Hey, now," Waiola responded. "Don't be rude." But Bogart had soon interrupted her within seconds.

"The queen is hungry, and it demands to be fed!" Bogart demanded in a high and mighty tone of voice. "I won't continue to help unless I get to eat!"

Siorc allowed a sigh to escape the throat. It was pointless to argue with a person that was resolute on getting what he wanted when he wanted it. Tavern owner soon taking the siblings' orders, the hyena removed his wallet from his back pocket. Meals paid for in full, the soldier off duty waited for their meals to arrive.

Food delivered to the table after about twenty minutes, the hyena let the party of two eat in peace. But a look of concern had soon graced Waiola's face. Did she feel bad about something? Shaking his head at her worries, the early adult continued to let the two eat in peace, but a small portion had been given to him anyway. Was giving away part of her food necessary? Not feeling hungry in the slightest, the early adult prepared to return the food back to the customer.

Waiola telling him to have one, the soldier studied the plate in front of him. On the small plate had been some sort of roll with fish in the center. Had Waiola ordered more than one on purpose? He supposed if such were indeed the case, it was no business of his. Taking a bite of the roll, the fish had been absorbed in his taste buds. Sumeru's cuisines had been just as delectable as Liyue's.

Bogart devouring an entire whole chicken by himself, the soldier off duty remained patient. Everyone had a different apatite. Judging someone for it was an unforgivable sin, for sure. As the demanding man continued his solo feast, another group of two had soon made their presence known in the tavern. Tall woman soon walking towards their table, the hyena turned his head to the new person entering the stage.

Walking towards the table was a tall woman with tan skin and a shorter woman with a generic stature and purple dress. Generic person having nothing of especial note, the chimera focused his attention on the taller woman. The tall woman had dark brown hair with golden streaks that went down to about her backside. Blue eyes, and green earpiece on her left ear like everyone in Sumeru, the soldier off duty looked at her outfit. Skimpy red and black outfit showing off her stomach on full display, the early adult could not help but feel slight envy. He wished he had the courage she had to display his own body, but such confidence would never be upon him. Gold symbol below her chest, and armor upon her, the chimera ended his examination.

Generic woman looking rather fragile, it had come to the chimera in an instant. The tall woman had been a bodyguard to her in some sort of way. Bodyguard having a rather friendly look on her face, the hyena turned his head into the opposite direction. The two siblings needed some privacy.

"The black panther twins," the bodyguard said. "Well met."

As he heard the bodyguard's words, the hyena had come to wonder. Why had there not been many people that looked like the bodyguard, Waiola and Bogart within the city? Only seeing a few other merchants in the city that looked similar to them, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. Maybe he was overthinking it. Bogart flexing his muscles in his damaged peripheral vision, the hyena could feel a wave of strong energy come his way. The energy of a warrior had soon engulfed the entire tavern.

"Warrior Xerxes reporting for duty!" Bogart announced, but Waiola quickly cut in.

"Bogart, we talked about this," Waiola scolded. "Mom doesn't want you to call yourself that."

Siorc tilted his head at the commotion going on. Had the name Bogart not been a name native to Sumeru? But, he supposed it was not his business if such were the case. His own name being in some sort of ancient language, the origins of names was a vast ray of knowledge only etymologists could know for certain. Bogart looking rather angry at his sister's comment, a yelling match was about to begin.

"I'm stuck with a Mondstadt name!" he complained, high pitched flamboyant whine in his voice. "She could have named me Xerxes, but no! She had to go to Mond when pregnant with us!" His lower lip had soon been crusted over his top lip as he continued to speak. "Now I have to pay the price for sounding like I'm not from here!"

Hearing Bogart's struggles, the soldier shook his head. A parent giving their child a name was a beautiful gift from the archons. What an absolute shame he had detested his given name so much, but he knew that not everyone aligned with the name they had been given at birth. Feeling a slight amount of pity form in his stomach, a frown formed on the early adult's face. Bodyguard soon looking his way, however, the frown twisted into a quiver. Was his presence bothering her in some way? If such were the case, he would move to another table. Angering a stranger was not on the menu for today. Conversation looking ready to continue, the chimera waited patiently for the group of three to finish speaking.

"I've got nothing for you two," the bodyguard replied to the panther twins. "I'm currently employed as Miss Dunyarzard's bodyguard." She then turned to the stranger dressed in winter clothing. "You there. Do you have somethin' to ask me? You have a look on your face." Her arms had soon been crossed around her exposed stomach. "I may be an Eremite, but I'm not out to get you."

Siorc could feel his eyebrow twitch. Had the bodyguard been some sort of high up government within Sumeru? The Fatui, just what troubles had they caused within the Nation of Wisdom while he was away doing work in other nations? He knew some other Fatui diplomats were violent and troublesome people that would stop at nothing for their missions to succeed.

Eremite saying he had a look on his face, the soldier off duty pointed at himself for a moment. Did his facial expressions read that easily to her? He always assumed that he had a blank, emotionless look on his face at all times. Had he been easier to read than he previously thought? Eyes on him, the chimera prepared the forbidden question once again.

"Have you seen my sister, ma'am?" the hyena asked forbiddingly. "She is short, has curly green hair and wears earrings." Had the description been enough? Eremite looking as though she knew who he meant, a wave of relief soon washed over him.

"I believe I saw her at the dance theater last time I saw her," the Eremite responded.

Huge lead soon provided, the soldier off duty stood up from the table. Bogart finishing the last amount of his large meal, the chimera bowed a thank you to the Eremite. Eremite and the person she was guarding soon sitting at the table, the hyena descended the staircase. Black panther siblings stepping in front of him shortly after, the doors to the outside world had soon been opened.

Walking towards what felt like a secret entranceway, the door had opened as though everyone was welcome to come in at any time they wished. Shopkeepers everywhere, another set of repeat questions had been fired at the merchants. Generic outdoor shop owners having no answers, the chimera turned his head to the right and left. Dance hall off into the corner, the hyena's currently human legs shifted towards the left.

Small dance hall with a theater looking rather quiet, a particular person dancing stood out amongst the crowd of generic nobodies. Ending her dance for a moment had been a young woman that had been slightly taller than him. The young woman had bright red hair that went down to about her rear, and aquamarine eyes, the color of the fountain nearby. Light blue headdress with horns matching her light blue dancer outfit, and golden sandals that looked graceful to dance in, the hyena ended his examination. Young lady soon looking his way, the soldier off duty gave eye contact to the young dancer.

"You look similar to a young lady that helped out during the Sazberuz Festival," the young dancer lady said, smiling. "She was extremely helpful when setting up the dance theater for my performance."

Hearing the dancer say he resembled someone, there had been no doubt in his mind. The red haired performer at the dance theater, she had to have meant Hase, for sure. Feeling another huge lead about to form, the chimera prepared himself. Surely, she had to have at least told a dancer she had helped out during one of Sumeru's major festivals where she was headed next. Forbidden question soon returning inside him, the early adult took another long deep breath.

"Do you mean Hase, miss?" the hyena asked, desperation growing in his voice. "Did she tell you where she was going next?" Desperation at its peak, the chimera took another deep breath. Emotions were a monster.

Red haired dancer having a dejected look on his face, the hyena closed his eyes in defeat. Another wave of rejection was about to come his way, for sure. Having coming as far as getting one lead to here whereabouts, the trail turning cold almost a second after was as common as a group of Slimes popping up whenever an adventurer were to step near an icy flower in the open wilderness.

"Oh, no, she didn't," the dancer replied, dejected. "I apologize."

Lead gone as soon as it arrived, the hyena could feel his will about to die back in the deep snows of Snezhnaya. Was continuing to search for her even worth it? No one else in the capital city knowing who he was even asking about, his will had begun to drop like Cicins in the open wilderness. But, he knew it was far too soon to give up. The daylight hours had still been upon him.

Waiola soon suggesting they head for Port Ormos, the soldier agreed in silence. If the panther chimera twins still wanted to help him, he had no reason to refuse. Long walk south upon him, the hyena continued to follow behind the two like a kitten walking towards their food bowl.

Familiar path from before soon upon him and the panther twins, a crossroads had soon been reached after about twenty minutes of walking. Dirt road diverging into two separate paths, the panther twins headed towards the west path. Various tent looking houses on the ground, the soldier off duty observed his surroundings. Everywhere he looked had been a small village by a river. The citizens of Sumeru were intertwined with nature, indeed.

Area split down the middle with a large river separating both sides, the hyena let out a sigh. If the only way to get to Port Ormos was the cross the river, he would be in major jeopardy within minutes. Water not looking shallow enough to simply walk through, challenges of water versus chimera had been a permanent issue at his currently human hands.

Village still split between a river as the group of three proceeded forward, the hyena gazed at the water blocking the path. Docked towards the shallow end of the river had been a wooden boat. But, seeing Eremites within the area, he knew he could not borrow the vehicle, for any reason. Continuing to walk was the only option that remained.

Large Port City soon about six hundred meters away, the soldier let out a tired pant. Surely, the city could not have been far off by now, but as he kept following from behind in silence, the sight of elemental fungus bouncing on the dirt road soon made some noise. Fungus with a large aquatic bulb floating in the sky above, small brown fungus with orange eyes, and small light blue fungus looking like it had been frozen by its own ice spikes, the early adult jumped eight steps back. He had no weapon on him, it was a losing battle, for sure. But, such was an incorrect assumption.

Hearing Bogart laugh, the shorter panther chimera had a large smirk on his face. Seeing a purple vision beside his skirt, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. The panther twins had come prepared for battle. He should have taken a Claymore with him, but requesting to borrow one had not been on the forefront of his mind. Hyena claws not appearing when he closed his eyes, fighting alongside the other chimeras was an impossibility to be had, for sure.

"Alright! It's my time to shine!" Bogart shouted in a cocky voice.

Polearm in Bogart's hand, and bow in Waiola's, electricity and water had shook hands on the battlefield. Purple waves of electricity joined together with his polearm, the brown fungi had soon become one with nature. Icy fungi soon meeting their doom, as well, an aura of lightning had soon surrounded him. More fungi soon coming, the electricity had soon been aimed towards the ground. Three circles of lightning on the ground zapping the fungi into nothingness, the monsters on the ground had been fully dealt with.

Fungi floating towards the sky, Waiola placed herself into a launching stance. Arrow charged with aquatic energy, the weapon infused with her Vision's power charged at the monsters floating on the humid wind. But, the singular arrow had not been enough to defeat the aquatic fungi of the air. Multiple arrows fired, the creatures did not budge, even for a moment.

Vision glowing beside her, water had soon replaced her arms and tail from behind her. Tail becoming weightless, her now aquatic limbs were faster than air. Multiple water projectiles thrown at the monsters, the aquatic fungi had been knocked onto the ground. Creatures stunned from the surprise attack, her arms had soon returned to a solid form. Bow in hand once again, multiple arrows had been shot like it was nothing.

Monsters gone within a heartbeat, the panther twins kept walking forward. Back entrance to the port city reached after about another fifteen minutes of walking, the chimera prepared himself for disappointment. He knew by now anyone who would have seen Hase were going to be few and far in between.

Port separated by a large body of water, as well, the hyena let out another tired sigh. The world was inaccessible waters. If only swimming were a skill he had acquired in his stolen childhood. Travelling from one side to another could have already happened by now. But, he knew it could not be helped. Any skills he had not been able to acquire were now beyond his reach in adulthood.

Multiple merchants around the port city not knowing who Hase was, predictable rejection had kept coming his way. He knew at this point rejection was to be completely expected. Trade center soon reached after a multitude of noes looping on repeat, another person had stuck out amongst the crowd of generic merchants and traders.

Standing near what looked to another Eremite had been a tall buff man with short grey hair and light green eyes. Hair being tinted slightly green, and black Sumeru outfit with an open green robe on the outside with an intricate gold symbol on the chest, the soldier off duty could feel a wave of authority from the tall man. Person soon looking his way the hyena prepared himself.

"What do you want?" the tall man asked, rude tone of voice.

Hearing the man's voice, the hyena shifted his eyebrows. Eyebrows forming a v shape for a split second, the chimera almost clicked his tongue. What an incredibly rude man he was. But, he supposed looking at him unprompted would be enough to make anyone angry. Regardless of such, the soldier off duty would not falter. Other people that did not look like a generic nobody having a lead, he knew he had to ask him if he had seen Hase around the port. The hourglasses' sand was starting to run out.

"Sir, have you seen my sister Hase?" the chimera asked, trying to be as polite as possible. However, as he prepared to describe how she looked, an immediate answer had come his way.

"And why would I have ever seen your sister when I've never seen you before?" the man asked rudely. "You're better off asking ----, but prepare to empty your pockets for her."

Rudeness shining through, the hyena clicked his tongue at the man. Another person's name given, Waiola and Bogart soon lead the way. Shady man saying a lot of things that made no sense to him, the soldier off duty's head spun, for a moment. Waiola answering she wanted unripe Harra Fruits, the early adult tilted his head. What was going on? Business was a world of nonsense. Shady man continuing to guide them, a wave of congratulations had been sent the shady man's way. Back of a house soon reached, confusion had begun to play on repeat. What had he just witnessed? Had something illegal just transpired? The hyena did not know, but his lips would remain sealed if illegal activity had just taken place.

Shady man running off as though the law were about to catch up to him, a peculiar person had soon appeared within the back of the house corner. Standing off to the side had been a short woman with messy, short bright pink hair tucked into a purple hat. Small red sunglasses covering her golden eyes, and black robe only covering her chest, the woman's belly had been on full display. Having seen so many stomachs today, he supposed such was Sumeru's fashion style. Poofy purple pants and white sleeves showing parts of the short lady's skin, and six rings on her fingers, the early adult crouched down to look her at eye level.

Young lady looking as though she was ready to make a sale, the chimera would not falter. Whatever price he would have to pay, he would pay the full amount, for sure. Merchant looking ready to speak, the hyena prepared himself for whatever was about to come his way. Money was about to be wasted, for sure.

"Hello, dear customer," the merchant said, greed evident in her voice. "If you have Mora, my doors are open!"

Major emphasis put on the word Mora, the chimera stared at the ground. He knew the moment he had seen this woman his wallet would be on the line. But, he knew if it came down to it, he would pay any amount she would ask for. Perhaps, just maybe, the merchant would be able to tell him where Hase was with a little bit of money. Waiola's voice soon interrupting his moment of thought, the soldier off duty returned his attention to reality.

"How much?" Waiola asked. She then pointed to Siorc. "My friend here needs some information." But a surprise was about to shake Port Ormos like a drink mixed in a tavern.

"300,000 Mora for information!" the merchant immediately replied, rubbing her tiny hands together.

Siorc jumped ten steps back as the amount had been announced for the entire port to hear. Three-hundred-thousand Mora for information? That was more Mora than he made in half a year. What an absolutely ridiculous of money to be asked for a simple yes or no question. Was bartering for a lower price even possible? But, such thought was interrupted by the feeling of an elbow jabbing him on the side. Who wanted his attention now?

"Pay the lady!" Bogart said rudely. "You want info, right?" But Waiola had soon cut in once again.

"Bogart," she scolded. "Be nice!" But Bogart had once again bit back.

"We didn't bring out wallets anyway!" it bit back. "So, come on, pay her! It's getting late!"

Predictable answer about not having brought a wallet with him, the chimera let out an angry grunt. More than six months of his salary gone within an instant, the merchant's hands had soon been loaded with hundreds of gold coins. Young lady almost bouncing with excitement, the hyena placed his hand over his face. What was he about to get himself into?

Strange device emitting a green light between the merchant and he, the early adult tilted his head. Merchant saying she held the Canned Knowledge Capsule of missing persons, the soldier off duty shifted his eyebrows. It was almost as if the merchant conveniently had been selling exactly what he needed at the exact right time. Knowing not having a lead was close to impossible now, the hyena prepared to get his robbed money's worth of an answer.

"Does that device contain the whereabouts of Hase, miss?" Siorc asked, puzzled. But, an answer he expected coming from a kilometer away graced his inhuman eardrums.

"Nope! Nowhere to be seen!" the merchant responded. Singing a tune about Mora happily, everything had come to an end.

Rejection once again headed his way, the hyena let out the largest of exasperated gasps. It was as he expected, everything about the transaction had been nothing but a scam. Sun looking about ready to set, the group of three left the secret alleyway. Merchant saying her doors will always be open if they have Mora, the soldier rolled his eyes to the dimming sky. She would never get his money again, for sure.

Port city soon exited, defeat had begun to wring him out like a towel. All the leads he had gained throughout the day had lead to nowhere. Waiola and Bogart soon looking at him once again, the hyena looked into the twins eyes, for a moment. Group of two looking ready to leave, he supposed it was time to hear them out one last time.

"We have to go home, the desert is a long way from here," Waiola said, voice tired. Holding his hands for a moment, her palms had been interlaced with his. "But, we'll always be a letter away if you need our help!" Writing down an address on a small card, she handed it to him. Bogart's voice soon joining the party, she moved three paces to the right.

"Next time, though, have something a monster fight for us to take care of!" Bogart complained. "I prefer action!" Joining his sister, he waved a goodbye.

Waving a goodbye in return, the soldier could feel defeat hold him tighter than ever before. Leads drying up like a river, and wallet robbed in broad daylight, the hyena could feel the need for tea growing stronger inside him. Opening his orb into map form, the hyena highlighted the waypoint to Liyue Harbor within an instant. He needed one last moment to clear his mind.

Teahouse being across from him within a split second, the hyena ascended up the staircase. Usual brunette patron sitting at one of the tables, and opera singer to the side, the chimera sat down adjacent to the tall brunette like he always had.

Yinlong eventually walking over, no energy remained to allow for a smile to grace his face. Robbery of three-hundred-thousand Mora weighing heavy, ordering tea from the panda chimera could possibly help him drown out the multitude of failures today that had transpired within the Dendro Nation of Wisdom.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their words were slow, and lulled, like they always were. But, worry soon painted their face, for a moment. "Here for some tea? You look kind of tired, let me brew you something easier today."

Barely having any energy remaining, he supposed being given a lighter tea did not matter. Small cup of tea brought to the table, the early adult reached for his back pocket. At least he wouldn't rob him of his entire wallet like the shady merchant had done. Gold coin placed in his hand, a floral red tea had soon been in front of him.

Placing his hand by his mouth, the hyena touched his fingers to his chin. Bringing his hand forward, the word thank you had been signed on private display. No longer having enough energy to speak, wordless language would have to do, for now.

Panda chimera sitting down for a moment, they looked into the early adult's eyes. Did he have something to ask him? Anything was better than being told to pay six figures of Mora for useless information that lead to nowhere. Yinlong looking ready to speak, he kept kept his eyes on him.

"So, what brings you here today?" Yinlong asked, slowness still present in their voice. "You look really tired." Placing a hand on his shoulder, a slow smile creeped on his face. "If you're still tired, sign it for me? But, it's okay if you don't want to talk about it."

Still having the energy to at least sign, the soldier off duty folded his two humans hands into a fist. Two index fingers sticking upward, the hyena moved his hands downward. Right hand soon in a fist once again, his thumb had been tucked in front of his fingers. Removing his index and middle finger from the fist, the two fingers had soon stuck outward. Fist folded once again, his thumb had been laced underneath his index, middle and ring finger. Turning his hand a smidgeon, the thumb had soon been under his fingers, touching the tips. Curling his middle and index finger into intertwined vines, for a second, the hyena returned to sticking his index and middle finger straight upward for the final letter. Went and Sumeru signed on private display, the chimera waited. He knew Yinlong processed things slower than others.

Eyeing the sign in front of them, a oil bulb had went off in the panda chimera's head. Had Siorc gone to Sumeru today? Not looking as though it was not something that couldn't be said out loud, the panda supposed mentioning it with words wouldn't bring any immediate danger to his career as a big bad Fatui.

"You went to Sumeru today?" Yinlong asked, words slightly faster than before. "I wish I could go to Sumeru. They have some nice flowers that could be used to brew some floral tea." As he finished his sentence, the tall brunette soon joined the conversation.

"Sumeru is rich in nature and plant life," the tall brunette said like a history lesson. "The God of Woods shaped the nation into the land it is today."

Tall brunette providing a history lesson, the hyena gave a small smile. If his father were still alive, he knew he would enjoy the history lessons just as much as he loved doing the research for his job. Panda chimera's pink eyes soon meeting his mismatched ones, the hyena waited patiently. Maybe he had better news than his entire day of failure and shame.

"Oh, by the way! I tried out boss' opera troupe!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their two index fingers then touched. "Didn't get in, though. But, I'll keep trying my best!"

Hearing the panda chimera's motivation, a warm smile had graced the hyena's face. The lazy panda he had met all those years ago had been no more. Finishing the tea, he tilted his head upward. Moon completely out, he knew he had to return to Snezhnaya. The choice was not his. Turning to the panda chimera, a low energy farewell formed on his lips.

"Thank you for the tea, sir," the chimera said, voice slightly more audible. "It was wonderful." Knowing Her Majesty had returned from business by now, he knew he had to return to the military barracks. "I must take my leave now." As he said such, he removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his uniform pocket. "It was very nice seeing you again."

Yinlong's panda ears drooped. He was leaving for Snezhnaya already? Such a shame, it was. But, he knew the Fatui had busy lives ahead of them. Before he were to teleport back home, they figured the usual goodbye could be uttered.

"It was nice seeing you again, too," they said, words still slow. "There will be more auditions in the coming months. Maybe next time we meet, I'll have passed the auditions, finally!" He waved to the hyena slowly. "I'll keep up with my exercise, in the meantime!" A yawn presented itself as they finished speaking. A nap was to be in order soon.

Waving back to the panda, tiredness hugged the chimera from behind. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, the fatigue had only begun to grow stronger as the fast travel had ended. Barracks soon upon him, the soldier travelled to the soundproof room in silence.

Steel walled room upon him, he slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Everything removed, and uniform off, Siorc closed his eyes. But, one final thought poked the dormant shark grooves in his brain as the world of tormented dreams were about to take him away.

Hase, barely anyone had seen her in Sumeru. The festival the dancer had mentioned did not seem as though it had been recently. Maybe reuniting with Hase even for a moment was beyond his reach. Hope was a dead emotion buried in the snow beneath. World of sleep finally taking him, one final thought poked his fading brain.

The one member search party was now on hold.

Branch Off 3. (17) Hawk Vs. Hyena and Jadeite To Boot

"Just how long has time been looping?
Ultimately, everything day is looping, repeating, reversing.
So much is gone, missing.
Tomorrow will again be yesterday.
It is the same every day, nothing is moving
Changing, going.
Every day is yesterday.

How much longer will everything be repeating?
All and everything is the same beat.
Wedged into the deep
Know at this point I am trapped. Even so

Obedience is key.
For I cannot ask anything

Looks like another day of deliveries awaits me
It is yet another yesterday.
Yesterday is today, the day after tomorrow is yesterday
Untimely cycle of nothing continues.
Every day repeats."

Fourteen days had passed since the one member search party in Sumeru occurred. Nothing of major note happened within the hyena's Fatui Soldier life. Deliveries around Dornman port looping on repeat, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Every day being monotonous, the early adult remained silent, and diligent.

Today would end served upon an Electro platter.

The sound of morning alarm bells blasted in an bombastic uproar. As the alarm bells exploded with absolute discord, the dissonant sound of hundreds of groans from Fatui Soldiers drowned out the sound of the snow outside. The alarm bells were uncalled for in punctuality, as usual. Despite such groans about, every soldier remained loyal within the military barracks.

The copious amount of groans was more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. Knowing another day of nothing but deliveries awaited him, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As he put on his uniform, the soldier could feel a subdued amount of confidence. Everything looping on repeat lately, he knew another day of monotony was the only possibility to be at his constantly transforming hands. Snow roaring about outside, such could have been the only possibility to occur. Having no singular doubt, the hyena put on his heelless shoes as fast as he could muster.

Everything else on, the chimera removed the cover of the hairpin and earring box. Cover removed, the young soldier growled at the custom made Windwheel Aster jewelry and accessory staring at him from the box. Punishment from some time ago flashing in his brain for a moment, the early adult let out another growl. Flowers and he were seeing other partially human people still. Taking a deep breath, the hyena grabbed the matching black heart set, he clicked the hairpins and earrings into place. Glaring at the flower set one last time, the the young soldier closed the box with a roar. Glasses adjusted, and rations devoured, the man had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui boots increase in volume with a militaristic roar, the chimera turned his attention to the door. Agent to arrive any second now, he knew he had to be ready for the workday of nothing ahead. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena put on the most diplomatic face possible. The young soldier was ready for his monotonous workday of nothing to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," called out the Agent on cue. "You will be delivering machines and collecting Noctiluctous Jade in Liyue today." A bag from behind his back shook with a fervor. Another day, another separate affair.

Siorc jumped four steps back upon hearing the name Noctiluctous Jade. Wasn't Noctiluctous Jadeite harmful to humans? He recalled hearing a legal case of someone buying jade in town and feeling ill after touching it during his various days of mundane diplomatic affairs in the area. Her Majesty, why would she want such a harmful piece of mineral, if such were the case?

Noctiluctous Jade echoing in his eardrums, the soldier had instantly pondered. The Jadeite, could the mineral be harmful to chimeras, as well? Body being human on the outside, there was no possible way his body would be immune to the effects of such a sinister green rock. Not having gloves as a part of his uniform, dread ate away at the chimera like a bowl of borscht.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. He had no idea what the soldier was ever thinking, but he had an idea. "Her Majesty put gloves in the bag for when you have to pick up the jade. So, get a move on!" The bag had begun to shake louder from behind him.

Hearing that gloves had been contained within the bag, the soldier took a deep breath. If such were indeed the case, he supposed he could quell his worries, for the time being. Arm being held out in front of him, the chimera waited for his arm to be gripped into a firm grasp like it always had. Time was not his when he was on the nonexistent clock.

"Yes, sir," he replied autonomously. He supposed if the gloves blocked the harmful properties of the jade, he had nothing to worry over. He knew he had no choice but to accept the workday at hand. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.

Seeing his subordinate holding his arm out, the Agent firmly slammed a large bag on the soldier's back. Bag straight on his back, he returned his attention to his subordinate within an instant. "Let's go, Soldier," the Agent responded. Arm grabbed within an instant, into a tight lock, he gripped the wrist tight enough to bruise. "There's a Claymore in the bag. Make use of it."

As the escort to Liyue began, the hyena could feel a heavy weight on his back. The machines he had to deliver, just what were they made out of? He supposed he would find out in due time. Knowing the bag would have weight in it all day, the hyena took another deep breath. The jadeite would make the bag heavy still, surely. As the teleportation had begun, a thought of unease shot an icy arrow upon the battlefield.

Her Majesty, just what did she need jadeite for?

Harmful materials were terrifying indeed.

***

"How come that hyena is back again in my territory?
Of course, he had to be here when I'm in Liyue.
What is that villain doing here?

Don't go anywhere near me!
All the Fatui are vile creatures of villainy.
Raven, if he tries to take you away from me,
Electricity will be your reckoning, Fatui!

Here, of all places, when we're hunting bounties!
Evil vagrant, justice will prevail!

Justice will be dealt to you, so watch out!
Undoubtedly, those vile people are everywhere!
Surely, they have to have business elsewhere!
Their presence needs to cease!
If he gets in my way, there will no mercy!
Cannot allow him to come into my territory.
Electro arrow on standby,

Well, he won't see it coming!
I'll scare him good this time.
Like the hawk I am, I am watching.
Lightning will be at my calling.

Blasts of electricity will be ready.
Even if Raven still claims he means no harm, he needs to

Stay away! Chimera, or not.
Every single one of those vagrants is in the wrong.
Righteousness will prevail, heroism will be my call.
Villains will go down, once and for all!
Even if this is only my temporary territory, stay away from it!
Don't trespass at all!"

Upon arriving at Liyue Harbor through the Teleport Waypoint, the chimera turned his head to the right and left. Red stairs to the left of him, the soldier let out a sigh. He was to deliver machine parts alone today. Being given written instructions on a piece of paper, the Agent exited towards the red staircase. Knowing he was headed towards the bank, fear hugged the hyena from behind. Many people were about to get hurt today.

Instructions in hand, the soldier read the paper with due diligence. Seeing where he had to go, the hyena tilted his head towards the sky. First delivery and jade collected listed to be Sal Terrae, a sea of questions flooded the chimera's partially human mind. Just where was the Sal Terrae? He had never been to such place before.

Opening the proxy orb into map form, the hyena examined the map in front of him. Examining the map, the soldier kept looking. Eventually seeing Sal Terrae on the map, the chimera looked at the path leading to the area. Sal Terrae looking quite the far distance away, the early adult continued to ponder, for the moment.

The Sal Terrae, would he be able to get there quickly by walking? Not being able to even see the area without having to move the map over towards the location in question, the ability to walk there and reach the location in less than four hours was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Fatui being as impatient as they were, taking his time was not an option.

Highlighting the waypoint to Sal Terrae, the soldier closed his eyes. No matter how much time had passed, teleporting was still a blinding ordeal. But, he knew fast travel to the area was his only option at his currently human hands. Time was not his while on the nonexistent clock. Reaching the area within a split second, the hyena examined his surroundings.

Within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision was a strange area he had never seen before. Before him was a strange dome shaped area near the grass. But such had not been the only oddity presented before him. Off in the distance where the small dome was had been strange white sand that felt out of place in the area. Wind sand having small statues, the soldier tilted his head.

White sand glaring at him from afar further, the soldier had come to wonder. Could the white sand actually have been salt? He recalled in his stolen childhood, one of his father's books in his study contained information regarding the Salt God, Havria. Remembering such, more questions flowed through him like a river.

The area at hand, could it have been the Salt God's former dominion? He knew, back in the day when he'd study his father's notes he learned about various things regarding Teyvat's history. Recalling from his father's notes that thousands of years ago, there had been some sort of war between the gods, there was no doubt in the early adult's mind. But the hyena shook his head. He had no time to ponder about the history of the continent.

Stepping forward, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. He knew that the Fatui were definitely right around the corner, waiting for him ever so impatiently. Tall Fatui with silver hair and disgusting black hat looking ready to roll him up into a ball and throw him all the way back to Snezhnaya, the chimera gulped. The soldier was just as impatient as he thought he would be.

Knowing he had to hurry, the soldier opened the bag from behind him. Grabbing the materials, the hyena examined what had to be delivered. In his hand had been some sort of red hand gun. Gun looking far smaller than what he normally saw such Fatui with, the early adult examined the material further. Looking inside for a moment, something peculiar stuck out to the young soldier.

Embedded inside the magazine had been a chaos axis. Seeing such, it had come to him within an instant. Her Majesty was having him deliver new weapons to the Fatui Soldiers of Liyue. Coming to such realization, fear devoured the chimera like Chicken Tofu Pudding. Was she about to make her moves on the world? But, he knew he had no time to think about such.

Fatui stepping towards the edge near the water, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. He had to hurry before a whistle were to be blown upon him. Red eyes glowing at him as he stepped forward, the gun had been ripped out of his hands as though it were a toy. First delivery of the day handled, the hyena walked towards the north.

Path with more monuments of salt, the soldier placed his hands into a praying position. Gods, dead or alive, needed respects paid to them in full. Small area with stone walls, the chimera entered the small area. Another Fatui with silver hair standing in what is usually a Hilichurl camp glaring at him, the hyena removed another weapon from the bag.

Gun being longer than the other one he had delivered to the previous Fatui, the soldier could feel the weight slump down into his currently human hands like a rock. Weapon ripped out of his hands, the tall soldier had gone on the patrol within seconds. The Snezhnaya born Fatui were monsters.

Second delivery completed, the soldier kept walking. Heading back onto the path he had been on before, the hyena kept going northward. Salt God's monuments still everywhere on the path in front of him, the soldier prayed to the Geo Archon he did not worship. He had hoped his intrusion upon a deceased god's former dominion would not disturb their spirit.

Another Skirmisher in a red uniform standing by a tree practically ready to stamp his feet, the soldier removed the next weapon he had to deliver. Experimental red rifle with a chaos oculus in the magazine, the chimera blinked. Her Majesty's experimental weapons had come in many different shapes and sizes. He supposed, in the future, such weapons would all be the same size. Third weapon delivered, the chimera kept walking.

No more Fatui to deliver to in the area, the hyena searched the area for any Noctilucous Jade that could have been in the area. Heading back to the dome in the corner, the chimera looked everywhere. Seeing nothing but salt and flowers, the chimera turned back around. There was no minerals to be had within the world of salt.

Walking back towards the north side, the chimera searched the area. No amount of minerals anywhere to be seen, the hyena walked over to the next area of the Terrae. Salt monuments still everywhere, he supposed no minerals could deposit themselves into the ground. But, he knew he had to keep looking. The choice was not his.

Continuing to walk towards the northern side, the hyena opened up the orb back into map form. Taking a look at the Sal Terrae area on the map once again, the chimera examined the small landmass. Not seeing any mineral icons on the map anywhere, the early adult allowed a sigh to escape the esophagus. There was no clues of any sort. He would just have to keep looking.

Nothing guiding him to any sort of answer, the chimera dissipated the map back into orb form. There was no way he would be able to find what he was looking for by relying on Her Majesty's technology. Looking with his own damaged eyes was the only option that remained. Continuing to walk north, an obstacle had soon been in front of him.

Standing in front of him had been a large body of water. But something else stood out to him amongst the aquatic obstacle. On other side of the water had been something that looked like an entranceway. Could the entrance have been where all the jade in the area was? Water looking rather deep, however, and boat on the other side, travelling forward was impossible. But, something strange soon occurred.

Cryo Slimes appearing almost out of nowhere making an ice path wherever they hopped, the chimera jumped upon the thin ice. Where had the slimes come from? He had not seen any in the area when he came by. It was almost as if, such convenience had been placed within the area to push a story along. Convenient ice bridge bringing him to the next area, the hyena studied the entrance.

Stone slab nearing, the hyena placed himself on the structure. Peering downward, the hyena let out a gulp. The only way to continue was to descend downward, it would seem. Deploying his wind glider, the chimera tread carefully. Reaching the ground, the early adult took in his surroundings, for a moment. Waterfall raging about, the early adult knew getting back up to the surface would be a challenge. Stepping to the left, the young soldier removed the greatsword from his bag.

Seeing blue minerals, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. Wasn't jade supposed to be green? He supposed minerals came in many different colors throughout the world. Swinging his greatsword forward, the rocks came tumbling out of their houses. Three jades on the ground, the soldier removed the gloves from the container.

Placing the gloves on his hands, the chimera flinched. The material of the gloves was the most uncomfortable feeling in all of Teyvat and beyond. Picking up the jade and placing it into the bag, the hyena returned the claymore to the bag, as well. Materials inside, the early adult ripped the gloves off in an instant.

Seeing nothing but Cor Lapis in the rest of the cave, the soldier returned to the other side. Gazing up towards the ceiling, the soldier let out a gulp. The only way out was to climb near the stone formations by the waterfall. Feeling the water hit parts of his uniform, the chimera kept climbing. He had no time to worry about getting wet. Surface soon reached, the hyena read his next instructions in a careful manner.

Instructions telling him to head to Mingyun Village, the chimera opened the orb back into map form. Mingyun Village to the south of Sal Terrae, walking was certainly possible from Sal Terrae. Borrowing the docket boat, the chimera sailed back to the surface. Salt platform soon reached, the hyena readied to head towards the village.

Large cliff formation the only way to proceed to the village, the early adult ascended. Grassy cliffside soon reached towards the midway point, the chimera looked off to the side. Fatui sitting on the ground by a cooking pot, the early adult removed a gun from the bag.

Fatui grabbing the weapon like it was about to explode if it wasn't taken right away, the soldier kept moving. He knew he had to hurry. There was no time; patience was not a virtue for Her Majesty's Fatui. Teleport Waypoint next to him, the early adult stepped to the left. Another Skirmisher waiting for their weapon on a path, the hyena removed the next weapon from the bag.

Skirmisher ripping the weapon out of his hands, the soldier kept walking. Final set of weapons delivered towards the village, the hyena studied the map one more time. Noticing four waypoints in the village area, a lot of walking was upon him for jade collecting. Yaoguang Shoal in the south, the chimera let out a gulp. The panda chimera, would they see him on the job? He hoped such would not be the case.

Heading back towards the first waypoint in the area, the hyena headed towards the southwest. Reaching a large mine after awhile, the chimera stepped inside. Tracks everywhere to be seen, the hyena examined the area with due diligence. Eventually seeing the jade near a cart, the early adult removed the greatsword from the bag.

Group of three jade dropping to the ground, the chimera reached for the back of the satchel once again. Removing the uncomfortable gloves from the back pocket of the satchel, the soldier put the awful fabric around his currently human hands. Picking up the minerals he threw the rocks into the bag as fast as possible. Ripping the gloves off, Siorc exited the cave.

Finding another cave after a short walk, the soldier walked in. Not seeing any jade above ground, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. Noticing an opening in the corner, the early adult walked forward. Small body of water being a slight swim away, the chimera placed the satchel in the water, using the bag as a boat, the man pushed forward.

Group of four jade at the other side of the water, the chimera stood up. Removing the claymore from the bag once again, the soldier set the jade free from their rock houses. Awful gloves soon on his hands once again, the early adult rushed the rocks into the bag. Everything away, the hyena soon exited the other cave.

A familiar face he did not want to see would soon join the battle.

As he headed outside, an awful sight awaited him. Towards the edge of the cliff had been the Justice Hawk of Fontaine and his falcon partner. Knowing if the hawk had spotted him, he would get hostile, the soldier sighed. But, he knew he had to descend the cliffside to continue his jade collection journey. The choice was not his. Walking forward towards the edge of the cliff would soon be a mistake.

Villainous vagrant stepping onto the scene, anger boiled an egg inside Robin's bird brain. Why was the heinous villain in his temporary territory? If he were here to take his partner from him, justice would be served upon an Electro platter. If the Fatui were to not vacate the area immediately, his arrow would join the conversation.

"Get away from my territory, Fatui!" Robin shouted, human finger pointing at the villain. "This is my temporary hunting ground!" There was a tone of valor in his voice.

Siorc rolled his eyes to the sky. Did the hawk chimera have no idea what he was saying? The area was not even his on a permanent basis. Continuing onward, the hyena had begun climbing downward. He didn't have any time to deal with the territorial talon clawed man.

Hearing the sound of a bow as he scaled down, the hyena clicked his tongue. Why couldn't the hawk just leave him be? He knew violence was never the answer. Hearing the sound of another voice soon enter the wind, the soldier dropped down to a rest point.

"Hon, lower your bow," Raven said to Robin. Even though he couldn't see it, the loose hair on the top of his head twitched about as he spoke. "He's only collecting rocks!"

Sound of the bow being tied to behind his back, a sigh of relief released form his throat. At least the falcon chimera was talking some sense. Bottom of the cliff reached, the chimera removed the claymore from the bag. Slashing the greatsword forward, the blue mineral dropped to the ground. Seeing three more around the rock formations, the hyena's slashes about continued. All four jade dropping to the ground, the early adult put on the awful gloves.

Throwing the minerals into the bag, the hyena ripped the gloves off as fast as a certain blue hedgehog from another universe who ran at the speed of sound. But the chimera had been none the wiser to such creature existing. Horrible gloves away and weapon returned to the bag, the early adult read his instructions once again.

Being told to head towards a large statue next, the hyena walked towards the southwest direction. Knowing he could not teleport using the odd statue on the map, walking was his only option at his constantly transforming hands.

Familiar mine soon upon him, the soldier exited towards the south direction. Seeing some groups of jade by a slime bomb, the soldier removed the claymore from his bag. Since it had been there, anyway, he supposed he could collect what was there. Minerals dropping to the ground, the uncomfortable gloves were soon on his hands for the fourth time or so of the day.

Tossing the jade into the bag at lightning speed, the soldier walked towards the right. Another large cliffside upon him, the hyena let out another tired sigh. Liyue was the nation of Geo, indeed. Statue soon reached, after about half an hour, sweat poured down the soldier's back. Was coming all this way even necessary? But, he knew he could not do anything out of order on Her Majesty's instructions.

Being told by the paper that there was jade hidden within a bush, the soldier descended the cliffside. What was the point of coming all the way up by the statue if there was no jadeite in the area? But, he knew he could not question Her Majesty's words. Seeing jade peaking through a bush, the claymore had once again been in his hands.

Moving through the bush, the hyena slashed the claymore forward. Being careful to not destroy the shrubbery, the chimera hit the rocks gently. Jade taking two hits instead of one, the minerals fell forward. Horrible gloves pressing against his skin, the early adult threw the rocks into the bag. Flinging them off within a split second, his hands were soon free.

Figuring he would have to return back towards the statue, the hyena climbed upward. Having collected so many jadeite at this point, the soldier had noticed something particular. The jade only appeared near or around cave or rocks. Noticing such pattern, the chimera returned towards the area he came to get towards the statue.

Seeing jade within a cave near water, the soldier treaded around the small submerged lake. Water avoided, the hyena slashed the rocks out of their homes. Duo minerals dropping to the ground, the early adult placed the horrible gloves on, for a split second. Leather burning his hands, he placed the jade in the bag as fast as possible. Removing the garments, the hyena kept walking.

Long walk back towards the first waypoint he had walked towards, a small wave of fatigue hit the hyena. Just how much more jade did he have to collect? No exact number given, the job was not done, yet, for sure. Familiar mine soon back again, the hyena headed back towards another exit.

Seeing Dragonspine off to the side, the soldier kept walking towards the grass. He knew, if he stepped even one meter off, the penguin chimera would definitely come out of hiding and bother him while on the job. Blue fairy moving into some sort of home as he walked, the hyena kept heading south.

Another mine soon upon him, the soldier stepped inward. But, a distasteful sight soon awaited him. Hawk chimera and falcon partner hunting Hilichurl bounties in the cave, the hyena let out a tired grunt. He knew he was about to get a world of noise as soon as the group of two noticed him, no matter what.

Spotting some jade, the hyena walked forward, but such was ended almost immediately as it began. Justice hawk turning his way, he knew an attack was about to come for him. Jade soon cut from its home, the uncomfortable gloves had bit his hand like his shark teeth. Mineral in the bag, the soldier stepped forward, but an arrow had soon come his way.

Jumping three steps back, the arrow did not hit the target. Why couldn't the hawk just mind his own business and let him do his work? Looking as though the two had work of their own, tossing an arrow at him was certainly hindering both his work and his partner's. But, he would not dignify the hawk chimera with a response. The hostile man did not deserve to hear his seldomly used voice.

As he walked forward, a shout had soon entered the cave. Hawk chimera still not minding his business, he knew what was about to hit his eardrums. Was leaving him alone to do his work impossible for him? The bird man was more of a pest than the penguin chimera had been in the past.

"Stay away from Raven!" Robin shouted, voice leaking with valor. Why had the vagrant been everywhere he had been? If he had been here to take his lover away, justice would be served. "Stop showing up in my territory, Fatui!"

Siorc grit his inhuman teeth. He knew he could not do anything about needing to collect jade in the same place that he and his partner just happened to be in. Coincidences were quite the disgusting phenomenon to be had within the world of anything being able to happen at any given time.

Spotting a few more lumps of jadeite in the corner, the soldier ripped out his claymore. Slashing the rocks to the ground, the minerals had gone flying out of their homes. Painful gloves around his hands, the hyena hastened the collection of the materials. Bag of rocks feeling heavier than before, the weight was undeniable.

No more jade in the cave, the hyena had begun to reach for the exit. Although, as he kept walking towards the light, the voice of the hawk chimera had echoed on the walls. What more angry words could he say to him? The hawk chimera needed to mind his manners and his business.

"If I see you in my territory again, justice will be served!" Robin shouted, finger pointing at the villain of injustice.

Siorc rolled his eyes to the cave ceiling. Archons not being on his side today, he knew that running into the hawk chimera and his partner again was a guaranteed phenomenon that was unavoidable. Fate was a horrible tour guide within the world of his life.

Exit soon reached, the hyena walked towards a tree to read his next instructions. Paper informing him the last area he had to head to was near a domain, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Domain being a short walk away, the soldier kept his eyes shut for a few more minutes.

He needed a second.

***

"Archons are just not on my side today.
Right, maybe I should not have prayed to the salt god.
Really should not have, my luck is just gone.
Of all the days to run into the hawk chimera, it had to be today.
Why can't he leave me be?

There has to be other places where jade could be.
Obviously, I cannot go where I do not know where such minerals are.

This is the last stretch, maybe he won't bother me.
However, I know if the hawk sees me, he'll attack me.
Even if I avoid him, he sees all.

Knowing this, I need to hurry.
Need to run at lightning speed.
Even if he attacks me, I'll stand my ground.
Even if he attacks me, I won't let him push me around. I won't let that man win."

Waking up about half an hour later, Siorc could feel mountains of sweat begin to pour down his back. What was he doing, dozing off like that when he was on the job? Knowing time was ticking, the soldier stood up within an instant. Recalling he had to head towards the location of a domain, the hyena had begun walking.

Seeing the domain entrance after about fifteen minutes, the hyena looked around the area. Eventually seeing jade sticking out like a slime in a tribe of Hilichurls, the hyena removed the greatsword from within the heavy satchel. Jadeite soon dropping from to the ground, the chimera tilted his head. The rock in front of him, why did it feel as though it could be broken in some way? Slashing the weapon forward, the rock had been destroyed in seconds. Small cave soon revealed within the bedrock, the chimera stepped inside. Although, his step into the cave was met with a challenge in the span of a second.

Hawk and falcon chimera within the formerly sealed off cave, the soldier grit his teeth. Had the hawk chimera sealed the area off by pushing rocks at the entrance? He knew such was a terrible conclusion for him to draw to, at this point, but it was not impossible; the hawk chimera was quite the unreasonable partially human person.

Being spotted within an instant, a look of anger twisted on the hawk chimera's face. Yellow eyes looking ready to explode, the soldier stepped forward. Whatever justice the hawk were about commit to him, he was not interested in the slightest. Deposits of jade around every corner, the claymore had once again been in hand. The territorial bird talon man, however, had other plans.

Electro arrow soon hitting him as he proceeded towards the mineral, rage had boiled an egg inside him. Clothes zapping with electricity, the soldier grit his teeth as hard as his shark molars would allow. Why couldn't the hawk chimera just leave him be to do his work? Enough had been enough. Placing the weapon in front of him, the hyena had gone on the defensive.

Heinous vagrant able to find another one of the areas within his temporary territory for the day, a bird of absolute rage had flown out of the nest in his bird brain. Why had the villainous hyena returned once again? The final straw had been drawn. Perhaps, just maybe, if he attacked the man of injustice into next week, it would serve as a warning to him to not step into his territory ever again.

"Those blue rocks are everywhere!" Robin shouted, heroism leaking throughout his words. "Stop following me around, Fatui!" Arrow placed into the bow, he then turned to his lover. "Raven, he's our new bounty!" But a surprising response had soon hit the walls of the tiny cave.

"I'm not involving myself in this, hon," Raven responded.

His lover not joining in on his new bounty hunt, slight shock hit him like an acorn to the head from the top of a tree. The villain could be here to take his partner away. Such heinous crime of villainy could not go uncorrected. Bow ready, he explained himself to Raven.

"He could be here to take you away!" Robin responded. "I won't let that villain recruit you into their villainous army!" Stepping six paces to the left, the Justice Hawk of Liyue was ready to serve justice upon an Electro platter.

Knowing there was no reasoning with the man, the hyena swung his greatsword forward. While he had no intention to fight, perhaps, just maybe, swinging his weapon forward would scare the hawk into leaving him alone. An astronomically incorrect assumption on the chimera's part.

Heinous villain swinging a large sword about, Robin called to the challenge. If it was a battle that he wanted, it was a battle that he was getting. Hurling multiple arrows in the villain's direction, the Justice Hawk of Liyue smirked. This ought to teach the vagrant a lesson about stepping into his temporary territory.

Arrow coming at him fast, the first one had hit his uniform within a split second. Another arrow coming at him fast, dodging had been an impossibility to be had, for sure. Feeling the next arrow slice into his knee, the tip had pierced through the fabric of his pants. Arrow deeply entwined with his knee, the chimera let out a scream. The weapon, it had rooted itself deep within the joint.

More arrows soon coming his way, the hyena trudged nine steps away. Swinging his greatsword, the remaining arrows headed to him were bounced off and around to the ground below. More arrows soon coming his way, the chimera was ready to get on the defensive. But, the battle had soon been halted by a surprise.

Falcon chimera wedging himself in front of the two of them, one final arrow had hit the side of his uniform. Bow soon lowered within seconds, the soldier lowered his claymore. What was the falcon chimera doing? Hadn't he said he would not involve himself in what was going down? Brown eyes looking angrier than he could ever imagine from such a partial person, a world of angry words was about to come everyone's way.

"Hon, stop. This is unnecessary," Raven demanded, voice strangely irritated. "I'm glad you're defending me, but this is wrong, and you know it, Robin." He took a deep breath. He had never felt angry at his boyfriend before, but he supposed there was a first for everything. "He's just collecting jade, I sense no harmful intent within him." He then turned to the Fatui. "Right, hon?"

Raven speaking a lot of sense, the chimera thanked the archons that at least one of the birds had a brain. Nodding at the falcon, the hyena glared at the hawk chimera with daggers in his mismatched eyes. Feeling blood trickle down his leg, the glare only lasted a second. The pain was quickly becoming unbearable.

Seeing the hyena Fatui flinch, the falcon unhooked the catalyst from beside him. Would helping him cut the rocks ease the burden? He knew it would not be enough to undo the pain his boyfriend had caused him, but perhaps, just maybe, helping a little would make up for something.

"For all the trouble my boyfriend has caused you," Raven started. He then opened the pages of his catalyst. "I'll cut the jade for you."

Watching as yellow-green projectiles hit the jadeite, the soldier watched in silence. Was this even necessary? He knew he could just collect the jade himself, but he supposed someone else helping him wasn't so bad. Minerals falling to the ground, the hyena waved his hands about in the frantic manner. He knew he could not let the falcon chimera pick up the jadeite. If he were to get hurt now, he would not forgive himself for any reason.

Awful gloves soon biting his skin harder than his own teeth could, the hyena picked up all the jadeite at once. Everything soon collected, the soldier bowed a thank you to the falcon chimera. No more jadeite to collect, the early adult exited the cave. Job done, the chimera could feel the urge to get some tea and cool down, but he knew he had to finish everything at hand before he could relax.

Instructions informing him he would have to bring the bag of jade to the Northland Bank, the chimera removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map from his pocket. Opening the orb into map form, the hyena highlighted the waypoint in the upper area of Liyue Harbor. Fast travel happening within seconds, the soldier closed his eyes. Red staircase upon him after a split second, the early adult climbed upon the stairs.

With every step he took, he could feel his knee sting every step of the way. Fabric where the knee was tinted a dark shade of red, the soldier kept walking. He did not have time to worry about such trivial matter. He knew if he were even a second late, the Agent would blow a whistle upon him to Her Majesty as soon as they returned to the permafrost north.

Bank soon upon him, the hyena opened the doors. Agent still within the bank, the chimera removed the heavy satchel from his backside. Knee still stinging every step of the way, the early adult tried his best not to flinch. He knew he could not falter. The Fatui who ran the bank could be watching. Placing the satchel in his subordinate's gloved hands, the man waited for his dismissal to be granted.

Agent opening the bag and looking inside, the soldier allowed a gulp to escape the esophagus. Watching as he counted every single Noctilucous Jade within the container, sweat had begun to form at his brow. Was there some amount of jadeite missing within the bag? He knew if such were the case, a punishment would await him back in the frozen northern land, for sure. But, seeing no anger within the Agent, he could feel relief wash over him within seconds.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent said. Not noticing the fabric stained with red, his words continued. "You are dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya by the late evening." Returning to his monetary work, the Agent turned around in an instant.

Agent not noticing anything out of the ordinary, the hyena exited the bank. Still feeling the urge to get some tea, the soldier highlighted the other waypoint on the other side of the Harbor. Knee stinging more than ever before, he knew walking down any amount of stairs wasn't possible, at the moment in time. Fast travel ending in a split second, the early adult looked ahead.

Teahouse across from him, the hyena limped up the small wooden staircase. Usual tall brunette patron sitting at one of the tables, and opera singer to the other side, the soldier finally off duty attempted to sit down at the seat adjacent to the tall brunette like always, but Yinlong walked over quicker than expected. Not having enough time before he walked over to sit down, the chimera remained standing. Panda chimera soon looking at him, a tired look appeared on the early adult's face.

"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yinlong exclaimed. Their words were slow and lulled, like always. But Their words soon changed direction. "Oh, no, you're bleeding!" Cut looking incredibly deep, their face had been painted a worried shade of silver. Action had to be taken right away. "Hey, can someone go to the pharmacy? The injury looks pretty deep!"

"I will, miss Yinlong," the brunette replied, standing up. Tall man leaving the area, everything had begun to move fast.

Watching as the tall brunette left, the hyena had been quickly guided to a seat. Was anything at all happening at the moment even necessary? He knew going to such lengths did not need to happen. The cut would surely heal on its own, if not tampered with. He had to say something before the tall brunette returned. All of what was about to happen was not needed, in the slightest.

"I am fine, sir," Siorc lied, flinching. But, his lies were soon caught in a spider web as the peanut gallery replied.

"We can't leave a wound like this open!" Yinlong replied, words faster than normal. "It'll get infected, Siorc!"

"I concur," the opera singer in the peanut gallery replied to Yinlong.

Tall brunette soon returning with medical supplies, the party of three guided the chimera inside the teahouse. No patrons outside, dealing with the situation was an easy slip away. Placed on top of a counter, the panda chimera had begun asking questions on how to clean up such a deep wound. Brunette of many wisdoms explaining every step of the way, the wound had begun to be attended to. Wound soaked with water for five minutes, cream had been applied to the deep cut next. Gauze pad pressed onto the wound, the knee had soon been bandaged.

Placed by one of the tables, the panda chimera proceeded to the kitchen. Hearing the sound of a tea kettle on the open stove, the soldier let out a somber sigh. Was treating hm to tea alright? Injury being taken care of, he knew he needed to pay him back in some way, for sure. Wallet out in front of him, he readied to pay Yinlong, no matter what.

Aromatic tea placed in front of him, the hyena attempted to remove Mora from his wallet, but such was stopped within an instant. Yinlong's hand on top of his wallet, the chimera let out a sigh. Was he going to insist on treating him? He supposed he could not stop it, if he already had plans to do so.

"Oh, no, you don't have to worry about paying," she exclaimed, words at a normal speed. Guiding his wallet back into the back pocket, she then turned to her boss. "Boss, could you heat up some Lotus and Bird Egg Soup?" Opera singer heating up the soup, she returned her attention to Siorc. "You had a rough day, so we'll pay for everything!"

Soup soon in front of him, the hyena sipped the tea. Feeling the taste of sunsettias in his throat, a feeling of relief washed over him. The tea was sweet, and calming. Soup soon devoured as well, the tall brunette had begun to say something. Tall man noting the injury looked like an archery injury, the soldier's eyes opened wide. How did he know something like that just from looking earlier? The tall brunette was a wise man of many years, for sure.

Tea soon finished and soup fully devoured, the hyena raised from the indoor chair. Knowing customers had to have been waiting outside, the chimera would not indulge the group of three any longer. Knowing it was a good time to return Snezhnaya, a thank you was in order for everyone involved.

"Thank you everyone, for the help," he said to everyone, voice slightly audible. "And thank you for the tea and soup, it was wonderful." Knowing it would get busy as soon as the three went outside, the hyena removed the proxy map from his pocket. "I must take my leave now, take care."

Yinlong's panda ears dropped a bit as Siorc took out his map. He had to go back to Snezhnaya already? Such a shame, it was. But she knew Fatui had busy lives ahead of them, injured or not. But they supposed reminiding Siorc to take care could come into fruition as he said goodbye.

"You take care as well," she replied, words slowing down. "Be careful going back home." Waving to the chimera, the panda readied to return to work. The day was not over yet.

Waving back to the panda, slight fatigue possessed the hyena like a ghost. As he highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks the fatigue only continued to grow stronger as the seconds unravelled. Military barracks surrounding him within a split second, the soldier limped forward.

Steel walls soon engulfing him, the soldier removed his uniform, hairpins and earrings. Everything off, the hyena carefully placed himself in the uncomfortable bed. Head hitting the pillow, a thought graced his partially human brain that was an undeniable fact he could not ignore.

He knew if he saw the hawk chimera again, he would have to avoid him at all costs. Knowing he would attack him if he were anywhere near his presence, there was no way he would be able to do his work unscathed in the rare event the two would cross paths again. Wave of tiredness at its strongest after thinking such, the chimera closed his eyes. But, one last thought pushed a pebble around in his partially human brain as the world of sleep took him away for the night.

Hawk vs hyena will never end.

Before reading, this is 23,000 words and I highly recommend taking multiple breaks when reading this one. It's a novella, please do not read it in one sitting.

I wrote this when the Golden Apple Archipelago had gotten a rerun, so this is truly a product of its time.

TW: DROWNING.

18. Do Chimeras Dream of Haar Islands Mirages?

"Has time truly been passing?
All of the days gone by,
Are they truly even happening?
Really, all of this, it feels like a dream.

It must be, time is looping, reversing, repeating.
So much monotony, all of it is the same.
Likely, this new task is not real
After all, the sand is locked
Nothing is moving
Do the islands I am documenting truly exist?
Surely, I am merely dreaming."

One month had passed since the one member search party in Sumeru had occurred. Nothing of especial happenstance transpired within the hyena's Diplomatic Fatui Life. Deliveries around Dornman port looping on repeat for most of the month, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Although, one oddity had made its roar known during one delivery.

One delivery taking him around the caves of Liyue, another order had been sliced in with the other like a sword cutting a log of wood. Having been ordered to collect Noctilucous Jade for Her Majesty, the early adult's borrowed greatsword and the blue minerals had met. Although such collection of blue minerals had been met with a battle served on an Electo platter.

Bird chimeras having a commission from the Hydro Nation of Justice on the foreign rocks of Liyue, disdain had echoed throughout the cave walls. Hawk chimera quickly getting on the offensive, a day of hawk vs hyena had made rounds in the rocky area. Falcon chimera stepping in to stop the uncalled for fight, everything had returned to normalcy. Deliveries not having any more sudden surprises, the young soldier remained diligent.

The sound of morning alarm bells echoed with a violent reverb. As the alarm bells screamed with a fervor, the various amount of groans from Fatui Soldiers drowned out the sound of the chilling wind outside. The alarm bells were right on time, as usual. Despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal within the military barracks.

The multitude of groans had been more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never being alerted to any sort of alarm bells, the hyena had rose from the uncomfortable bed. Knowing another day of deliveries awaited him, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As his uniform melted onto his partially human person, a wave of subdued confidence leaked through the chimera. Another day of monotonous deliveries around Teyvat awaited him, surely. Knowing such could have been a possibility, the early adult pounded his currently human fists together. No curveballs would be thrown upon his routine at hand, for certain.

Knowing the Agent were to arrive at any moment, the chimera clicked his hairpins and earrings into place. Plain crossed shaped ones in his hair and ears, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Everything being on, and rations devoured, the soldier turned his attention to the door. Any minute now, the Agent would relay his predictable orders to him.

A mirage of surprises awaited the chimera.

Hearing the clacking of the Fatui Agent boots increase in volume, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. Knowing a day of nothing awaited him, the hyena's confidence had hit the roof like a bullet from a Fatui Bracer's gun. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the young soldier was ready for his militaristic day to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You are going to the Haar Islands for a month long project." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Another day, another month long separate affair.

Siorc jumped five steps back upon hearing the name Haar Islands. He could feel his heart skip three beats as the name echoed throughout the chambers of his partially human brain. Just where were the Haar Islands? The hyena had been none the wiser to such area existing. Was the area in a world beyond Teyvat? Would getting to such area even be possible if such were the case? The chimera did not know, but he knew no such questions could leave his lips.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You're going to the Haar Islands for a month long project! Get a move on!" There was an aggravated tone in his voice. He could never fathom what could possibly be on the soldier's mind.

Hearing the name the Haar Islands again, the chimera flinched. Taking a deep breath, he held his arm out like an invitation to a party. Arm out in front of him, the chimera waited for the gripping prison to take him like it always had. Time was running out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom.

"Yes, sir," he replied autonomously. Location within Teyvat or not, he knew he had to be ready for the project at hand. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.

Seeing his subordinate holding his arm out, the Agent firmly slammed a large bag on the soldier's back. Bag glued into place, the subordinate returned his attention to his commander in arms in an instant. "Grab a set of uniforms before we depart," the Agent stated. "Quickly. Do not keep Her Majesty waiting."

Doing as instructed, the chimera walked over to his uniform drawers within an instant. Removing a set of uniforms, the early adult removed the bag from behind his back. Accessory and jewelry box placed on top of the winter jackets, the hyena peered down into the bag, for a moment. Within the container of leather had been a silver greatsword with a black hilt on the tip. Sinister orb with a dark purple glow in the center off to the side, and notebook entitled The Haar Islands Travel Notes with a quilled pen in the spine, the soldier placed the uniforms into the bag within seconds.

Everything in place, the chimera snapped the bag shut. As the Agent returned the bag onto his back, multiple questions crashed waves within the hyena's partially human mind. Just what was Her Majesty asking of him to do within the unknown area of the Haar Islands? He supposed he was about to find out. Holding his arm out for the second time, the hyena was ready.

Arm being held out again, the Agent gripped the limb tight in an instant. "Let's get going, soldier," the Agent said. Arm held in a tight lock, the escort had begun. Grip as tight as tight as handcuffs securing the wrists, the chimera closed his eyes. As the fast travel started, a thought of unease shot a sniper rifle inside his partially human brain.

Her Majesty, just what was she planning?

***

"Is it just me or does that visitor on the island, look exactly like me?
That's right, mama, she told us he was coming.

It's why she and papa left for
Sumeru temporarily.

Looks like her call to leave the islands was right.
It's like I'm looking at a reflection in the ocean
Knocking rocks on the ocean, bouncing.
Even though he is wearing something different, the resemblance is inevitable.

It is odd, though, mama said we have to act like strangers.

Act as though we have no relations, whatsoever.
Mama, that is a little strange, when Hase came, no such precaution was in place.

Looks like times have truly changed.
Odd things have been happening on this island lately.
Odd things have been happening around the other isles, it's a bit freaky.
Keeping ourselves cautious, I guess that's how it should be. But still,
Isn't it silly to act like strangers to our cousin?
Never really seen him before, but we still hold about twenty five perfect relation.
Guess it is best we remain cautious.

It is true Fatui have been spotted on the island.
Nate told me.
This is an odd development, it should only be us here.
Only us five, vacationers come and go sometimes, but

All these men, these Fatui, they are vile.

Maybe he is one of them,
Is that why, mama?
Really, it feels cold acting like we are strangers, but
Really, we have no choice in the matter.
Oddly, she did not ban us from helping him.
Rules or not, we should help him if he needs anything. He is family."

Upon reaching an area unknown to him through the Teleport Waypoint, the chimera observed his surroundings with due diligence. Within every centimeter of him had been a sandy area slowly eroding away into the ocean. Waves crashing onto the sand, the hyena let out a sigh. He had been standing upon an island, indeed. Agent giving him a long list of instructions and then exiting the area in a split second, the early adult kept observing the area around him. But, an oddity had presented itself as he observed further.

As he walked around the tiny island, something of peculiar note stuck out to the chimera. Littered throughout the small beach had been vacation chairs with umbrellas covering them. But, the vacation chairs were an oddity to behold. The small chairs had red leather like seats and a yellow four leaf clover on them. Seeing such a symbol, the hyena let out a gulp. The island, had it belonged to the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom? But, such oddity had not been the only one.

Seeing a strange dome in the center, the hyena stepped inward. Large outdoor room with strange looking stuffed animals and a technological device he had never seen before, the soldier tilted his head. Where in the world had he been teleported to? Everything had felt like he had been transported into another world like a certain overpowered black haired swordsman the chimera had no knowledge of existing. Odd dome screaming out to him to exit, the hyena stepped towards the water.

Studying the horizon line, the soldier blinked. Within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision had been many other islands off into the distance. Various islands within a cluster off the coasts of the water, the hyena let out an exasperated grunt. How would he be able to traverse through the islands? Swimming far distances was not something within his skill levels. If he had to swim from island to island, losing his life to sinking to the bottom of the ocean would most certainly unfold. Stepping out of the water and turning to the left however, was a sight to behold.

Coming out of almost nowhere had been a person who looked nearly identical to him. Standing in the way of his path had been a practical mirror image of himself, but some differences had been present. The person had been short, and feminine with purple hair that went down to about their shoulders. Height difference being nonexistent, crouching down or standing to the tip of his toes was not required. Purple eyes with long eyelashes looking well taken care of, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment. Had he been staring at his reflection from the past before he needed glasses? Opening his eyes again, he kept observing the possible reflection of the past. The possible reflection had pink earrings with bows dangling from both ears, and blue lacy ribbons sticking out from the sides of their hair. Bangs being on the opposite side of his and far lower down on their head, the early adult rubbed his eyes for a brief moment. The invisible mirror, was it reflecting an idealized version of himself? He did not know, but he kept looking. Mountains of freckles on the reflection's face and frilly, lacy pink summer outfit with a skirt covering their legs, and sandals with cute flower straps on their feet, the man ended his examination.

Possible idealized version of himself looking about to break into a cold sweat, the hyena turned his head into the opposite direction. His reflection, had he made them nervous? He supposed being a reflection of himself, being uneasy was a given. Turning back around, the reflection had been waving their hand in an inviting manner. Looking as though they were about to shout something, the chimera looked off into the direction his possible mirror image had been gazing at.

"Pira! I know the islands have been weird lately," the mirror image shouted on the ocean wind. Their voice was high pitched and feminine, at least two octaves above his own. "But when did they put a mirror image of me here?!" Their voice sounded shocked.

Hearing the person's words, the chimera jumped ten steps back. The person looking exactly like him, had they just said something odd had been happening on the island? But, he knew he could not inquire about whatever oddities had been occurring. Questions were not allowed to him as a Fatui soldier. Tall person soon standing next to his possible doppelganger, the hyena studied the next person upon the beach battlefield.

Standing next to his mirror image had been a tall man that almost towered over him. The tall man had dark green hair tied back into a low ponytail, and purple eyes almost the exact same shade as his right eye that remained purple. Mountains of freckles on his face, and hoop earrings on his right ear, the soldier tilted his head. The tall man, why did he look like his father when he was alive? Had the tall man been a relative of his? The chimera shook his head. Never being told about other members of his family even existing, the hyena knew he was jumping to conclusions. Incredibly sharp teeth that looked sharper than his being visible, and black jacket that looked similar to a Fatui Agent's without coattails and Fatui insignias, matching black shorts, and plain red shirt, the early adult ended his examination.

Tall person proclaimed Pira crouching down to look at him, the early adult could feel sweat begin to form at his brow. Eyes soon meeting his, fear nibbled on the cartilage of his ears. The person that looked like his father, was he about to cast judgement on him? Seeing the tall man place his hand on his chin with a quizzical look on his face, the chimera backed two steps away. Resemblances to other people were a terrifying phenomenon to behold. Tall man turning to his mirror image, the soldier backed two further steps away.

"I don't know about that, Leah," Pira said, bewildered. His voice was deep, and baritone like most tall adult males. "Although, odd things have indeed been happening." He then turned to the young man, looking straight at his uniform. "Ah. You're one of those people that have those insignias on their uniforms."

Siorc jumped ten steps back upon hearing the tall man announcing the Fatui insignias on his uniform to the world. The group of two, had they spotted other Fatui around the islands off in the distance? If such were the case, he knew a battle upon the beach sands was about to happen, for sure. Noticing cyan and red orbs on the sides of their shorts, the chimera let out a gulp. An attack of elemental display was about to come his way, for sure.

Person proclaimed Leah soon looking at him, as well, the hyena let out a yelp. The young, slightly more feminine version of himself, were they about to attack them? He supposed such judgement was fair if the islands had been their residence, in any way. Mirror image adjusting their hair ribbons, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. An attack was to hit him any moment. But, such thought was a foolish one.

"Hmm, this one doesn't seem aggressive or like he's here to cause weird things to happen!" Leah exclaimed, in some sort of defense. "What's your objective, kid?"

Being asked his objective, the hyena opened the bag from behind him. Notebook in his currently human hands, he pointed to the words on the front cover with a quiet fervor. Group of two that resembled himself and his father looking to one another for a long time, a chill had run down his partially human spine. The party of two, were they about to change their minds about him? He knew being a member of the Fatui, people often cast judgement on him.

Seeing the person in a winter jacket point to a notebook known as the Haar Islands Travel Notes, Leah turned to their kin. Having heard from their mother before leaving for Sumeru for the month that someone from within their family had been kidnapped by the Fatui was going to be coming to the island, their hands had soon been playing with their hair ribbons. Had this been the person their mother had meant? Stranger looking almost nearly identical to them, there had been no doubt in their mind.

Leah turning to look at him, Pira put his right index finger on his lips. Had his sister been thinking the same thing he had been pondering? His parents before leaving the island to hide out in Sumeru had said their cousin would be stopping by the island for an entire month. Their mother's predictions never being wrong, he knew he had no reason to doubt her.

Looking at one another again, Pira let out a defeated sigh. Despite the relationship being rather obvious, his mother had told his sister and older sibling that they were to not tell him that they were related in any way for his safety. Their mother not saying the three of them could not help him, however, an idea had formed in his partially human brain. Even if they could not reveal they were related by blood, perhaps helping him out would be more than enough. Leah nodding at him, he turned his attention to the stranger.

"Well, you don't seem suspicious," Pira said, voice chill. "Leah, get the boat ready, alright?"

Leah stepping off towards the side next to some strange looking device, a boat had appeared as though by magic. Small boat looking barely big enough to hold three people, the chimera stared off in silence. The vessel, would it even be big enough to hold three people? He did not know, but he supposed he was about to find out. Mirror image soon finishing set up of the boat, their purple eyes had soon been eyeing his mismatched ones.

"Um, my name is Lewod, by the way," the mirror image named Leah said. "Leah is my girl name." Holding his arm, the escort had begun.

Group of three soon in the boat vessel, the hyena stood absolutely still. He knew if he were to move even a centimeter, the odd boat would begin to rock back and forth, for sure. Feeling the boat head towards the northeast direction, the soldier remained a statue within the vessel.

Not feeling a single turn as the boat steered forward, the hyena had come to wonder. Where had Lewod and Pira been taking him? He knew he could not ask any questions on the matter. Her Majesty could be listening from Teyvat. Long travel from the boat ahead, the chimera remained still.

No windows on the boat besides the front ones, the chimera sighed in silence. Not knowing where he was headed was a frightening feeling to behold. Boat continuing to head into the northeast direction, the early adult closed his eyes. He supposed, wherever he was heading, he could record it into the notebook when the boat were to finally dock.

Travel to the unknown still making its roar known, the young soldier remained patient. Travelling from one island to another was never a quick endeavor for anyone who lived within a group of land separated by water. Pira and Lewod not saying a single word to him, the quiet boat ride continued in complete peace.

Hearing the sound of a rock soon hit the front of the boat, the group of three soon exited the vessel. As the world outside soon burned into his vision, the chimera's eyes opened wide. High up on a mountain had been a large purple castle. What had a castle been doing all the way out in an island not known by anyone? Perhaps, just maybe, the castle had once belonged to royalty. Group of two not looking royal of any sort, everything had been a mystery.

Eventually being lead to an oddly large birdcage, the party of three had entered the area. Birdcage lifting the three up, a room with a red carpet floor soon followed. Room that looked like a theater soon exited, a long winding path had soon been in front of him. Long set of staircases soon following, the soldier kept following behind the party of two.

Castle with raven statues everywhere, the chimera tilted his head. The castle, why had it felt similar to that story book about the princess and her night raven? The hyena did not know. Perhaps, just maybe, the princess within the storybook had been a real person. Pira and Lewod eventually turning to him, the soldier made eye contact.

"Hold on, before we continue there's someone we want you to meet first," Lewod said, holding their hand out. "Follow me."

Guided towards another room in the castle, Siorc stared at the royal walls. Who had Lewod and Pira wished to introduce him to? Whoever it was, he supposed he had no choice in the matter but to follow along. Small secluded room with a small desk and clothes everywhere within his field of vision, the escort had soon ended. Person with their head turned sewing an outfit, the hyena remained silent. Disturbing those working hard would be quite rude of him.

"We'll let you stay here, for awhile there are plenty of rooms," Pira said, words warm. He then turned to their sibling, sewing away. "Nate, don't be shy. Introduce yourself to our guest." A sharp toothed smile appeared on his face.

Third person turning to him, the chimera examined the new face looking his way. Sitting in a chair with a purple seat had been a petit looking person possibly taller than him when standing up. The person had a small, feminine face, similar to Lewod's. Face looking smooth, and moisturized, a smidgeon of envy had filled the early adult's soul. But the feeling soon left. Mountains of freckles on their face as well, and jade eyes that looked like Hase's, the hyena turned his attention to the person's hair. The feminine person had long purple hair tied back into a low bun. Small hair tie with a flower holding the bun in place, the chimera looked at the rest of the person's hair. Long wavy loose ends flowing towards their backside, and similar triangular bangs swept to the right, the chimera looked at the person's clothes. Stub earring on both their ears, and mix of masculine and feminine looking Mondstadt clothing colored black and red, the early adult ended his examination.

Person named Nate examining him as well, the chimera had come to wonder. Had they been some sort of clothing designer? Noticing no one had lived on the island, multiple questions wrapped vines around the hyena. If they had been a clothing designer, why stay on an island with all their creations far away from society? He supposed whatever lives this family had was no business of his. Seeing their eyes give off a ray of disappointment, the early adult could feel his heart sink. Had he done something to upset the clothing designer just by entering the castle? An apology was to be in order later.

"Mother won't be happy about this when she returns in a month, but I have no reason to question your judgement," Nate said, their voice was tenor, but had a feminine charm to it. They then turned to the stranger. Had they been in a winter uniform? Such disaster needed to be corrected immediately. "Oh, dear me, if you're staying here, you can't wear that, dearie." Tape measure had then been in their hands. "Let me measure you and make you a summer uniform."

Siorc's eyes opened wide at Nate's suggestion. Was he even allowed to wear a custom uniform? If Her Majesty were to ever find out about it, his life would be over in an instant. But, he knew refusing a gift would be considered too modest of him. Mouthing a thank you to the clothing designer, an uncomfortable yellow string soon travelled around his body.

As Nate had begun measuring, an off thought had entered their mind. Their mother telling them that their cousin would be arriving on the island, they let out a somber sigh. Recalling in one of their mother's divinations that one of the youngest children in the family had been abducted by the Fatui some time ago, everything had soon been clear to them.

Measuring tape cruising around the young man's chest, a wave of bemusement filled their partially human brain. Had something been missing on his body? They could not pinpoint what the missing object could have possibly been, but such thought had to soon exit their mind. Moving onto the next place of measurement, ideas had soon formed into a material.

The young man's body had been about the size of their sister's. Knowing such size difference was close to zero, making a uniform his size would be an incredibly easy feat. Measurements done, they turned to the short young man. Having not said a word since he entered, they supposed breaking the silence could come into fruition.

"You're quite the quiet one, dear. Ah, right, let me introduce myself," Nate said, hand on their chest. "I'm Nathair, but you can call me Nate. I will have your new uniform done in a day, or so."

Hands soon returning to sewing, the group of three had soon exited the secluded area. Lewod and Pira soon taking the lead, the chimera followed behind like a duck in a pond. Guided to an abandoned room with a bed, the two soon turned to the hyena. Tall man looking as though he had something to say, the early adult kept his inhuman ears open.

"You can sleep here while working on your mission," Pira said, voice chill. "Can you swim, kiddo?"

Hearing the question, the chimera shook his head. Not being able to swim long distances, getting anywhere on his own was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Not knowing if the islands had been on his proxy map, getting around had come with various challenges on a Hydro platter.

Pira looking as though he had been pondering something, the young soldier looked into his purple eyes. Had he been pondering whether to let him use the boat they had took to get to the castle? He supposed, having to think about boating a Fatui around was a given.

"Well, as long as the boat isn't occupied, we'll take you around where you need to go," Pira responded. "We're going to attend to our own business now. Have a good night, kiddo." Exiting the room, the abandoned castle corridor had been a party of one.

No one being around, the chimera looked over his instructions with silence. Instructions in his currently human hands, the soldier paced around the room as the words on the paper made their roar known to him. Instructions telling him to document the Haar Islands, the soldier let out a tired sigh. He had to chart an entire unknown, uninhabited island? But, he knew his orders were orders. Such oddity had not been the only one, however. Glaring at him had been a cryptic instruction of terrifying proportions.

"If any changes occur on the islands, you are to investigate thoroughly," the instructions clearly said.

Instructions biting on his ear with a firm clamp, uneasiness had wrapped thorny vines around the chimera. The Fatui on the island, had they been attempting to change the islands? He knew if anything were to happen, he had no say in the matter. Feeling a wave of tiredness soon overtake him, the hyena removed the royal looking covers from the bed.

Slumping into the foreign bed, the hyena closed his eyes. World of sleep about to take him away for the evening, a thought had entered his mind as the world of dreams were about to invite him back in. Thought playing on repeat, it had begun to enter the land of his subconscious mind.

What was in store for him in the month to come?

***

"The divine up above, what are they always telling my mother?
Her prediction was right again,
Every time her so-called divinations are correct, I am baffled.

It is odd, for she does not have a vision.
She always claims she never needed one,
Look, I don't get her.
All her predictions about our cousin coming.
Now, I see why she decided to leave.
Don't know why, but I have this feeling.
Saying we are related will likely hurt him.

Ah, I suppose Pira and Lewod know such.
Ripping off the lids of secrets will only cause harm.
Even so, it looks like they'll be helping him.

Cannot say this shocks me, the
Haar Islands are changing.
As the days go on, the sky is flickering.
No wonder my mother left with our father, for now,
Guess that light is dangerous.
I shall remain in the background for now, for sewing an outfit is upon me.
No matter, Pira and Leah have this, really.
Guess I have a busy day of sewing ahead of me."

Upon waking up the next morning, the hyena looked over his instructions for the day. Glasses being on, the chimera read the words on the note carefully. Being told to head towards an unnamed isle, the soldier could feel a chill run down his spine as the next part of his instructions had been in front of his bespectacled eyes.

Being told to record information on a Fatui machine that had been planted within the island, the hyena allowed a terrified gulp escape his partially human esophagus. Her Majesty had been planting machines around the Haar Islands? Knowing he had no choice but to follow his orders, the chimera exited the isolated room within the enormous castle.

Lewod and Pira sitting by a table with a red tablecloth surrounded by raven statues, the soldier tilted his head. The castle still looked as though it had been straight out of a storybook. Not really remembering what story it was that had a raven castle, the hyena put a pin in such thought for now.

Given a small helping of food, the hyena stared at the lifeless raven statues. Castle not looking as though it truly belonged to the family residing in it, a round of curiosities stormed within his partially human mind. Had Lewod, Pira, and Nathair truly owned the raven castle? He supposed it was no business of his how or why they had been residing in such building that looked like a storybook.

Small meal devoured, the chimera turned his head to the right and left. No matter where he looked, the castle did not feel real. Party of two still devouring their meals, the hyena removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his uniform pocket. Proxy map showing him a location in complete isolation, the hyena's eyebrow twitched, a smidgeon.

Entire map looking far off from anywhere in Teyvat, unease had begun to eat the chimera. How had Her Majesty discovered such an island? Area not being connected to anything, traversing to it through normal means had to have been astronomically impossible. But, he knew Her Majesty had unlimited technology at her disposal. As he observed the map more, odd text had been at the bottom right corner.

Name of the island covered with a black line, the chimera tilted his head. Why had the text been obscured by a black line? It was almost as if, in a world outside of Teyvat, a word of god prevented the real name of the islands from being presented to the audience. Black line making the text indiscernible, the soldier looked at the text below the obscured line.

Text below reading twenty nine days remaining, sweat had poured down the hyena's back. Had Her Majesty programmed a time limit feature into his proxy map recently? Not being aware of whatever happened while he had been asleep, such was a mystery to the early adult. The timer embedded into the map, would it continue to count down as the days went by? He supposed twenty nine days around a group of islands had been more than enough to record everything the Cryo Archon needed.

Lewod and Pira still devouring their food, the soldier placed his fingers on the proxy map. Zooming the map out, the names of the isles had been revealed to him. Only four isles being named, the chimera attempted to narrow down the unnamed isle he needed to head to within the best of his ability.

Blue marker currently pointing him to Twinning Isle, the soldier shook his head. The island he had been on currently could not have possibly been the one. Turning his attention to any unnamed isles in the area, the early adult squinted for a moment. In the top left corner had been a large unnamed isle that looked big enough to hold an entire army. Could such unnamed area have been the right one? Her Majesty's instructions not specifying, trial and error awaited the man.

Meals eventually finished, the party of two turned to the hyena. Lewod looking as though they had something of major importance to say, the chimera's eyes met his mirror image's within seconds. Listening to what everyone in the room had to say was absolutely mandatory.

"Nate said xe will be finished with your uniform by the evening," Lewod explained, voice soft. "But, for now, we should get going! What's your first objective?"

Hearing Lewod's inquiry, the chimera opened up the orb back into map form. Pointing to an island in the northwest area, he dissipated the map back into orb form. Looking the group of two strangers into the eyes, the group readied themselves to exit the castle. Long pathway down soon conquered, a boat had been summoned through the odd magical device towards the ground.

Group of three soon within the vessel, the hyena had once again stood absolutely still. No matter what, moving in such a vessel was not an option. Pira cruising through the ocean slowly, the destination would not be on the horizon for awhile to come.

Vessel cruising through the water in the same direction, the hyena could not help but feel a sense of dejavu. Had all the isles within Haar Islands been accessible through one singular direction? But such thought had been cancelled like an outdoor party on a rainy day. Boat shifting every now and again, a long ride of curves awaited him.

Lewod playing with their ribbons as the boat ride continued, the hyena let out a somber sigh. Person still looking nearly identical to him, a wave of loneliness hit the chimera. He knew there were people completely unrelated to him that could have still looked like him. Slapping his cheeks, the early adult refused to let such thoughts win. He had no time to feel such emotions of lonesomeness.

Hearing the sound of a rock soon hit the front of the boat, the three exited the vessel. But, as soon as he exited the boat a feel of unease ripped the chimera apart. The nameless isle, why had he felt an eerie aura protruding through it? The soldier did not know, but he knew he had to keep going.

As he stepped forward, a sinister sight had greeted the soldier. Sitting in the center of the isle had been a dark red machine leaking with a sinister aura. Multiple Fatui in the area not seeming like they were in sorts, a boulder had entered the pit of his stomach.

Fatui not even noticing him as he stepped forward, the soldier recalled what Lewod had said. Odd incidents had been happening around the islands. The red machine, could it have been related to such odd phenomena his doppelganger had proclaimed were happening? Group of Fatui on the island unable to answer him in any way, the soldier opened up the notebook.

Recording information about the machine and its aura, the hyena decided to observe the area further. Seeing a small wooden staircase off to the side, the soldier ascended. Only way up being a set of vines, the early adult climbed the roots of Dendro. Second layer of stairs soon upon him, another set of stairs had been ascended within minutes.

Second set of vines being the only way up, the young soldier climbed upward. Lewod and Pira staying within the wooden vessel, traversing alone through the isle alone had been the only option. Another wooden staircase leading to a large set of more brown vines, the hyena continued climbing.

Fatui camp set by a large wooden bridge, the chimera traversed in silence. Soldiers still not taking notice of him, the hyena's currently human legs had broken out into a sprint. If the soldiers were too disoriented to notice him, he needed to take advantage of such opportunity. Bridge path leading to an odd device that would not lift him upward, the hyena shrugged. The Fatui were in too much of a daze to do anything, he supposed. Knowing the only way up was to continue climbing, the early adult returned to the investigation at hand.

Large mountainside soon scaled, a terrifying sight soon glared daggers at him. At the top of the mountains had been another machine glowing a red aura. If there had been two machines on the island, the islands would be in danger, for sure. Recording the second machine in the notebook, the soldier returned to the bridge.

Noticing an entire other side of the long bridge, the hyena sprinted off towards the other area. Third red machine with a sinister aura surrounded by Hilichurl towers, the hyena recorded the third machine into the notebook. Third machine feeling as though the sinister aura had been at its maximum, another stone had been thrown into the pit of his stomach.

The three machines, whatever they had been there for, they had not been for a good cause, in the slightest. Not seeing anything else of major note within the isle, the soldier returned to the windowless boat vessel. Castle soon returned to after a long amount of steering, his temporary abode had been reached.

Lewod and Pira returning to their own business, the hyena opened his notebook. Expanding upon his entries on the sinister machines, the chimera had begun to walk around in circles. The red machines, they would cause disasters upon the island, for sure. But something had not been right in the slightest.

The Fatui, why had they all been in a dazed state? The aura he had felt as he had come onto the island, the soldier could not help but feel it had something to do with it. Would Her Majesty's Fatui be affected by her machinery? Being a member of her army must not have equaled immunity to everything she had invented.

Lewod's words about the islands being strange lately ringing in his inhuman eardrums, the words continued to echo throughout the chambers of his partially human brain. Strange machine being the biggest suspect to the changes, the soldier kept the inhuman culprit in mind, for the time being.

Meal eventually provided to him after hours had passed, a dinner in complete silence bounced off the castle walls. Knowing he could not get non Fatui involved in the conversation involving his work, the soldier devoured his food faster than a pink alien living beyond the world of Teyvat. Meal finished, the chimera returned to his temporary isolated room in complete silence.

Feeling the need to walk around again, the soldier had once again walked around in a circle within the small castle room. Words about the islands having a possibility to change flashing in his head, more questions had begun to crash at bay. What changes to the islands would he witness? He supposed time would tell. Twenty nine days had remained in his mission.

Feeling a wave of tiredness, the hyena slumped into the foreign bed. A long documentation saga had awaited him in the days to come. Changes occurring or not, the hyena knew he could not falter. World of dreams readying to invite him back in, the the soldier closed his eyes.

Waking up the next morning, Siorc prepared himself to read his instructions for the day. Blue star hairpins and earrings on him, uneasiness had begun to flood within him. Words in front of him, the soldier read the instructions with due diligence. But such had been interrupted by a quick obstacle.

Lewod delivering his summer uniform to him, the hyena switched into the summer shirt. Summer uniform looking similar to Lewod's pink outfit, but green and with Fatui insignias on the sleeves, the chimera could feel his heart skip a beat. Was he allowed to wear a uniform made by a non-Fatui? Summer heat while wearing the winter uniform making him sweat, removing a few layers had to come of him now. Placing the Teleport Waypoint proxy orb in his pants pocket for the moment, the chimera had finished the switching of his uniforms.

Green shirt feeling oddly soft, the soldier almost let out a blissful noise. Nathair had known what xe was doing, indeed. Obstacles out of the way, the hyena returned his attention to his instructions. Being told he would have to traverse through Twinning Isle for the day, the hyena could feel relief flow through him like water. Twinning Isle being where he had currently been, no boat travel was necessary.

Everyone in the castle going about their business, the soldier had begun looking around. Nothing any different sticking out to him, the chimera wrote information about the castle within the notebook. Castle being large, the hyena kept looking around the royal palace, for awhile.

Coming across the birdcage once again, the soldier placed himself within the odd device. Strange theater room with only raven statues in the audience, the hyena kept walking. Seeing such a theater, the chimera had once again wondered. The castle, could it have been from the storybook about the princess and the night raven? He supposed the question did not have an answer.

Disheveled building sinking into the water, the soldier recorded the phenomenon in the notebook. Would such information about a sinking house matter to Her Majesty? He knew every bit of information had counted. Raven statues crowded by a well, and empty rock formation leading to nowhere, the soldier returned to the castle, for the time being. The isle had been far too big to explore in one go.

Returning to the mission the next day, the hyena would not falter. Raven statue somehow able to create a wind current to the other side, the chimera recorded the phenomenon into the notebook. Other side of the isle being a part of the castle as well, the early adult shrugged his currently human shoulders. If the entirety of Twinning Isle had been nothing more than a castle, he supposed no surprises awaited him.

Deploying his wind glider, the hyena headed towards a small isle separated from the rest. Tall mountain formation off into the distance, the soldier climbed the mountain scape. But, as his climb above had begun, an odd feeling had entered his soul. Feeling a strange gust of foreign wind, unease had made a meal out of the young soldier. The strong wind, it did not feel right. Knowing he had to shake such feeling off, Siorc had begun climbing.

Reaching the top after half an hour, a sight of absolutely nothing greeted the chimera. Raven statue creating a wind current, odd rings were seeped with dandelions; a series of rings traversed through the air cried out in battle. Palace eventually returned to, the hyena recorded the phenomenon into the notebook. Feeling as though he had enough notes on Twinning Isle, the mission had come to an end, for the day.

Next day soon upon him, the chimera was ready for the day at hand. Instructions informing him he would need to head to Pudding Isle next, the long boat trip continued onward. Long trip south eventually coming to an end, the soldier observed the island named after a dessert.

Island named after a food looking rather normal, for the moment, the soldier wrote everything down within the notebook. While the island had looked nothing out of the ordinary, something odd had caught the chimera's mismatched eyes. Patrolling around the island in a daze was a tall Fatui with a war machine on his back. Man talking about his cap and crying, the hyena tilted his head. What had come over all the Fatui on the island? None of them had mentally seemed like that had truly been there.

Another large mountainside off into the distance, another short boat trip had been administered. Lewod and Pira remaining within the small vessel, climbing solo had to become of the hyena, for now. He supposed the strangers helping him get around the island not poking their noses in was for the best.

As the chimera had begun to climb, an odd red light flashed in the sky for a split instant. Realizing the red light could not be ignored, the soldier recorded the phenomenon into the notebook. Continuing his traverse upward, the early adult remained as focused as he could possibly muster.

Peak being a long climb upward, the hyena prepared himself. Reaching the first grassy area, the soldier turned his head to the right and left. Nothing out of the ordinary sticking out to him, the hyena kept climbing. Reaching another grassy area with strange monuments with yellow symbols on them, the chimera wrote down his findings within the travel log.

Second half of the cliffside being only connected by a large set of tree bark, the soldier jumped onto the area of strange connection. Other side of the mountainside soon conquered, the chimera observed his surroundings. But, nothing of especial note stuck out to him. Nothing interesting enough to document in the notebook, the early adult scaled downward.

As the chimera readied himself to enter the windowless boat, an oddity had begun to play out right in front of him. Seashell with a blue aura standing upon a rock, the hyena picked up the shell. Voices coming out of the shell, the young soldier jumped six steps back. The seashell, had it been speaking to him? Such phenomenon could not go unreported.

Not finding anything else of note upon the dessert isle, the soldier returned to the windowless boat. Small meal given to him upon the party of three's return to the castle, multiple thoughts had begun to bounce around within the chimera's head.

The flash of red light, had the Fatui somehow regained enough reason to be able to operate their machines again? If such were the case, he knew he would have to proceed with caution. Whatever objective the other Fatui had been given on the island, he knew he could not interfere, in any way. Returning to the foreign bed, the world of questions flooded into the dream world.

Next day upon him, the soldier read his instructions as soon as his glasses had graced his damaged eyes. Being instructed to document Broken Isle next, the next long boat trip had begun. Boat heading towards the west direction, the soldier remained still within the vessel.

Broken Isle soon upon him, the soldier looked towards the coastline. Within every distance walk of him had been many large mountainscapes. Pira informing him there would be a tremendous amount of climbing the chimera allowed an exasperated sigh escape the esophagus. Another tiring day had been at hand.

Isle that did not look remotely out of the ordinary, the hyena recorded the sights into the notebook. But such normalcy had soon faded. Another red flash hitting the sky, the chimera blinked. Had the Fatui off on the unnamed isle been up to something again? Hearing a tall female Fatui mumble about a photo off towards the sand nearby, the early adult returned his attention to the mission at hand.

Nothing but trees within the first area of interest, the soldier proceeded towards the next mountainscape. Cliff looking far larger than the first one, a wave of fatigue entered the hyena. But, he knew he had to keep going. He had to document the isle. Brown rocks soon becoming a field of grass, the early adult observed his surroundings.

Small pool of water in between the grass of nothing, the early adult tilted his head. Why had the water felt like it would serve some sort of purpose within the coming days? Knowing such was not something to be ignored, the hyena wrote about the water into his Haar Island travel notes.

One more mountainside remaining, the young soldier headed to the area. Third and final mountainside looking even steeper of a climb than the past two, Siorc took a long deep breath. Climbing was tiring, long winded exercise indeed. Another red flash soon engulfing the sky for a split second, a gulp had bounced off and around the rock formations.

Finding a small rest point for a moment, the chimera caught his breath. Climbing for hours on end was far more tiring than even the penguin chimera's obnoxious personality. Next rest point soon upon him, the hyena observed his surroundings. Multiple wind barriers holding treasure chests hostage, the hyena recorded the odd instance into the notebook. Would he have to solve such puzzle later? He supposed he could return to the isle later, if he had the chance to.

Top of the Broken Isle having another large pool of water, more information had been recorded within the travel log. Nothing else of note within the area, the hyena returned to the windowless vessel. Castle upon him again after about an hour, dinner had soon been served. Barbatos Ratatouille served for the evening, the hyena attempted with all his might to hold back his tears.

Nostalgic dinner devoured, the chimera returned to his temporary abode. Lewod and Pira returning to their business, the hyena had once again returned to his circular walk about. Nathair never joining to the two of them for dinner, the hyena had come to wonder. Did the clothing designer ever stop to eat? Xe had seemed rather busy on a twenty-four hour basis. He supposed the affairs of complete strangers was of no business of his.

Red flash returning to his memory, the hyena switched to moving in a straight back and forth line. The Fatui, just what had their machine been doing on the island? The island could change shape at any moment now, surely. The hourglasses' sand had begun to fall faster.

Knowing his orders to investigate any changes that were to occur thoroughly, the chimera climbed into the foreign bed. Feeling a strong wave of fatigue, another day of documenting the next area awaited him within the blink of a mismatched eye. Sleep soon taking him, the sea of red joined him in the land of dreams.

Reading his instructions the next morning, the soldier blinked. Being instructed to go to Minacious Isle for the day, multiple feelings of unease had begun to splash water on the chimera. The red flashes in the sky, would he soon witness them again? Flashes only continuing to get stronger, changes could start coming for the islands within any moment.

Long boat trip southward, the soldier kept his thoughts about changing being right around the corner his primary focus, for the moment at hand. Long distance soon completed after about a long hour, the next isle had soon been upon him in, another solo documentation was ready to make waves.

Small pool of water near a tiny beach not feeling anything out of ordinary for the Minacious Isle, the soldier headed towards the opposite end of the isle. Nothing of especial note upon the surface, the hyena let out an exasperated sigh. He was getting quite tired of scaling multiple mountaintops. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter.

As the chimera climbed up the grey rocks, an odd structure had graced his heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Rock formation suddenly looking like some sort of temple, the hyena recorded such odd difference of scenery within the notebook. Soon reaching the top, the early adult recorded his surroundings. Odd looking ice crystals littered throughout the bottom section of the temple forming a pattern, more notes had been recorded into the travel log.

Seeing there had been slightly more to investigate up above, the soldier ascended. Odd device showing ice crystals forming into a large shape, the chimera wrote down his findings. Would he need Cryo to solve such puzzles later? He supposed he could ask Lewod to help at a later date, if necessary. Nothing else out of the ordinary upon the isle, the hyena returned to the small pool of water, for the moment.

Coming across a seashell with a purple aura, the chimera picked up the odd aquatic item. Images projected from the seashell, the hyena jumped ten steps back. Images speaking about conducting signal tests, the early adult jumped three more steps back. The seashell, why had it been projecting the images of the Fatui on the island? Her Majesty's technology was a frightening beast to behold.

Writing down the events within the notebook, the hyena returned to the windowless vessel. Nothing else of major note within the area, the job had felt done, for the day at hand. But, as he was about to return to the castle for the evening, four red flashes had flickered in the sky. Scenery changing a smidgeon in the distance, the chimera stared off into space. Time was beginning to run out for the isle remaining in complete normalcy.

Returning to the secluded room within Twinning Isle, the soldier walked in a straight line back and forth. Recalling the talking seashell speaking about conducting signal tests, the hyena could only help but wonder. The red flashes towards the sky, could those have been the Fatui conducting said signal tests? No named isles remaining, getting to the bottom of such phenomenon had to come into fruition.

Instructions not pointing him anywhere the next morning, the soldier returned to the first nameless island, for the day. Fatui seeming even more disoriented, the chimera observed the machine in the center. The machine's aura, had it gotten stronger since the week had gone by? Sky looking as though it had been dyed red, the chimera recorded the changes into the travel notes.

Secluded nameless isles traversed to upon finishing his investigation, a disturbing scene had burned into the chimera's bespectacled field of vision. On one of the nameless isles in between Twinning Isle and Pudding Isle had been a machine. Large crystal spinning nonstop in the sky, a large amount of unease continued to eat away at him. The machines off in between the other major islands had a sinister aura radiating throughout. Recording such into the notebook, the next nameless isle would soon be reached.

Another sinister machine spinning cogs with a red aura, the hyena could sense signs of change ready to flash through the islands again. Large blue switches with Fatui symbols inside them spinning the wheels faster with every second, the chimera recorded the isle with the machine within his travel log. Third nameless island with a small coast having such a machine as well, every isle had been visited, for the moment.

Next day coming at him fast, the soldier read over his instructions for the day. Notes telling him to double check any islands for anything he may have missed, an idea had formed within the chimera's head. The island he had been dropped off on, could there have been anything he did not notice the first time he had come there? He supposed a second look would not hurt. But such thoughts were interrupted by a sudden announcement.

"Pira, I'm going sunbathing!" Lewod exclaimed, sunglasses already on. But Pira had soon interjected.

"You need to be careful, the Fatui have been making more moves lately. So I'm coming with you," Pira said sternly. He then turned to Siorc. "You need to head to the small isle with the lounge chairs anyway, right, kiddo?"

Pira getting the location right without even trying, the chimera simply nodded. Having to double check the isle to begin with, he supposed confirming such would curve his investigations further. Pira looking as though he had been pondering something, for the moment, the hyena waited.

"Alright, we'll take you there, as well, but Nathair will be needing the boat today," Pira warned. "So, you won't be able to go anywhere else until xe returns."

Stern warning given, Nathair had soon joined the party of three. Fourth member soon within the boat, less space had soon been available to him within the tiny vessel. Feeling boxed in, the chimera closed his eyes. Everything had been a tight glass cage. But, no complaints would leave his lips. Bearing it was all the hyena could do.

Small isle with lounge chairs soon reached, the boat had soon sped off faster than his mismatched eyes could follow. Hearing the scream of a dragon off in the distance, the chimera rose his left eyebrow. Had Nathair climbed upon a beast off somewhere in the distance? The hyena did not know; the event was too far away to know for certain.

Lewod soon lounging about, and Pira keeping an eye on them, the young soldier investigated the island. Small grassy area with a rabbit umbrella sticking out like a slime in a tribe of Hilichurls, the chimera titled his head towards the sky. The umbrella, why had it looked so similar to the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom's backpack keychain? If the island had truly belonged to her, he would have to proceed with caution if she were to ever return.

Large red ring with red energy radiating throughout it, the soldier recorded his findings in the notebook. But as his investigations had continued, another red flash radiated throughout the area for two minutes on end. Flashes coming to an end, the winds had begun to change.

Pudding Isle looking different, the hyena knew he had to get a closer look. No boat available to him, the only choice he had was to step into the ocean water. But, such was a grave mistake the soldier would pay for with his entire small body.

Shallow end soon gone, the chimera's body had soon been within the water. Feeling the ocean engulf him, the hyena could feel himself begin to struggle to float. Attempting with any might to get himself into a swimming position had been an utter failure. Legs too deep within the water, panic soon possessed him like the voices in the seashells around the island.

It was too late, he had already been in too deep.

As the water made itself known to him, the soldier's body dropped downward into the ocean below. Feeling gallons of water rush inside his lungs, the struggle to breathe felt like a burning sensation. Body continuing to sink like a stone thrown into the seabed, the chimera closed his eyes. Everything was burning, he could take no more. Consciousness slipping away, one final thought had entered the early adult's burning mind.

If he were to die, at least it wasn't in Snezhnaya.

***

Fortunately, outside forces would soon hear the commotion off into the ocean. Loud splashes disturbing their moment of relaxation, Lewod's sunglasses had been lifted off their face. But, the sight before them had been a horror to behold. Witnessing their cousin sinking into the ocean, a scream of panic had broken out of their lungs in an instant.

"Pira! Quick! The kid is drowning!" Lewod shouted frantically. "You have to save him before it's too late!"

No hesitation of any sort flowing through him, Pira threw his jacket upon the sand in seconds. Red shirt soon removed, the tall man's bare masculine body had been on private display. Sprinting towards the deep end of the water, he soon swam to the ocean beneath. Seeing the unconscious body of the young man dropping lower, Pira placed the body within his muscular arms. Surface soon reached, he placed the body upon the sand.

Feeling a faint pulse, a sigh of relief hit Pira. Human legs soon replaced with hyena ones, he placed himself over the limp body. While he knew he could not have his hyena legs out when he was conscious, he cared not, at the moment in time. Restitution had to come of him now.

Airways soon open, he placed his hands on the young man's chest. Compressing the chest thirty times, he soon moved onto the next step. Placing his lips on him, breaths of restitution had been delivered. Repeating the steps a few more times, signs of life had soon returned. Feeling the young man breathing, however, had not been enough. How much water had gotten into his lungs? Further action needed to be taken.

"Kiddo has a lot of water in his lungs," Pira said, words calmer than they should have been for the situation at hand. "He needs a doctor."

Briefly coming to for a split second as the world went on, the chimera could feel a burning sensation throughout his entire body. Chest feeling hotter than fire, the soldier closed his eyes once again. Unable to keep his eyes open for even a second, the world of blackness soon overtook him for a second time.

Knowing there was no time, Lewod responded in an instant. "I know one," they responded instantaneously.

Recalling the time their youngest cousin Hase had come to the island for a small vacation, Pira pondered. Had the person Hase taken Leah to all those years ago been a doctor? He knew he had no time to be thinking such. The situation had to be dealt with before it was too late. If water were to remain in his lungs for too long, the young man would not live to see tomorrow.

"Do you mean your friend in Natlan you taught how to speak like a girl all those years ago?" Pira asked quickly.

Question being asked of them, Lewod nodded. Natlan being quite far away, getting to the area without the transport dragon had been next to impossible. But, they had recalled something else. The Fatui often had magical teleport orbs that could instantly beam them anywhere within and beyond Teyvat as long as there had been a marker on the map to bring them there. Knowing such was the only option, they readied to tell their brother.

"Yes!" Lewod exclaimed, almost screaming. "Check his pockets!" Their hands had soon been on their blue ribbons, but they stopped themselves within an instant. Now had not been the time to play with their hair ribbons. "I hear most Fatui carry around magical maps that can teleport them anywhere!"

Reaching into his cousin's pockets, a small orb had soon come out. Tapping the center, the orb had folded out into a map right in front of him. Seeing a section on the map entitled Natlan, Pira clicked the button within an instant. Highlighting an unknown city in Natlan's waypoint, he placed the unconscious soldier on his back. Lewod holding his left arm, the fast travel had soon begun.

Returning the magical, mystical map back into his pocket, Lewod soon lead the way. Door to a medical ward soon upon them, Lewod twisted the knob. Door creaking open, Lewod and Pira stepped inward. Young dark skinned woman downing some medication while they slipped in, the two could not wait another minute. Face soon turning around, Leah readied herself.

"Loba, we need your help, it's an emergency!" Leah screamed, frantic. "Our cousin drowned in the ocean when he went out too far. Please, you need to save him!"

Hearing Leah say the forbidden c word to the young woman, Pira placed his fingers by his lips. If the young man had woken up and heard that they had been related after all, their mother would be angry with them when she and their father had returned from their heist in Sumeru.

"Leah, watch your words," Pira warned. "If he woke up and heard you, it would cause a lot of problems."

Seeing Siorc on the tall green haired man's back with hyena legs, a frown had graced Loba's face. Knowing a medical examination was necessary immediately, she pointed to a bed. Tall man placing him on the bed, a medical instrument had been around her neck within seconds.

Chest instrument soon placed on the sternum, Loba listened carefully. Heartbeat being faint, a frown had continued to grace her face. Sound of his breathing being muddied by what sounded like water, Loba ended her examination. Had there been a gallon of water in his lungs? She knew she had to act fast.

"There is a lot of water in his lungs," Loba said, words almost shaking. She knew such was unprofessional of her, but her emotions would not cease. "I'll have to drain it out of him."

Hearing that helping him was possible, tears had begun to flow onto Leah's face. Rescuing him was possible after all? Such was a miracle gifted by the Archons. Was there anything she could do to help? Standing around doing nothing was not an option, for any reason.

"I'll do anything I can to help!" Leah responded. Her hands had been folded into a praying position. "We'll stay here in Natlan until he recovers!"

Group of two helping out, various machines had been hooked up to the chimera. Horrific needle poked into one of his veins, Loba's face grew dark. Needles were a terrifying tool within the medical world. Everything being hooked up, the next steps would soon have to come into fruition.

Siorc's life was currently in her hands.

***

"No, this can't be happening.
Ah, my lungs, they're burning.
They're burning. They're burning, they're burning.
Looks like what happened was not a dream.
All of my body, it is hurting, it is burning.
No way this is a dream, I'm hurting, I am burning.

Maybe someone will remove this pain,
Even though I am off in another island,
Don't know if that is possible, but this burning sensation,
It will not cease, leave me be.
Cannot take this pain, I am shutting off.
All of me is burning, nothing is working.
Lungs are burning, my lungs, they are burning.

Will anyone be able to save me?
Absolve this burning feeling?
Remove this pain, and help me?
Don't want to feel this anymore. Please, someone help me, my lungs are burning"

Upon coming to the next morning, the chimera had found himself in a familiar white walled room. Realizing where he had been, fear had grabbed him around the neck. How had he gotten to Natlan? Last he had remembered, he was on the Haar Islands. Knowing if Her Majesty were to find out he had somehow left would end in violence, he knew he had to leave immediately. But, such exit was halted before it could even begin.

Feeling something sharp poking down on his partially human veins, moving was impossible. Pain being excruciating, he could feel a shut down switch about to press inside him. But, he knew he could not let his current weakness win. Loba soon returning, he knew he had to tell her he had to return to work. Laying around hammered to a machine would disappoint Her Majesty, for sure. Medical Fatui soon within reach, he had to relay such fact to her.

"Ma'am, please," Siorc pleaded, voice weak. But his words had soon been accompanied by a painful cough. Why had breathing been so painful? He knew regardless, he could not stay. "I have to go back to work." Pain in his chest getting sharper, the cough continued.

Hearing such a predictable line coming from Siorc's lips, Loba dragged out a long sigh. Why had he always been so stubborn, no matter how many years were to pass? Medical device inside him not yet done expelling the water from his lungs, she knew she had to tell him returning to work was not happening.

"No, Siorc, absolutely not," Loba replied, words stern. "I can't let you go back work in your current state." She attempted to soften her words as she kept going. "There is a lot of water in your lungs that needs to be drained out." Placing his hand that had not been nailed down with a needle into her own, she held it tight. "You don't have to worry, Her Majesty has gone away on business. She will not find out." Would telling him such a fact put her patient at ease? Loba had hoped so. "You are staying right here until you recover."

Loba not budging on her words, a defeat horn had blared throughout the medical ward. Machine keeping him stuck in a bed prison, choice was beyond the scope of his ability. Pira soon bringing an odd mask to Loba, the object had soon been put on his face. Eyes fluttering closed, sleep had took him in seconds.

Three days had soon passed as though nothing had happened. Pain from his lungs no longer an issue, the chimera rose from the medical bed. Sharp object no longer connected to his veins, the hyena knew an exit had to come of him now. Medical instrument pressed to his chest, the metal had been piercing cold. Able to take deep breaths on command, he could see the faintest of smiles form on everyone's lips.

Being proclaimed stable by the jackal chimera, the soldier mouthed a thank you. He knew he had no time to waste; returning to the Haar Islands had to come of him now. Removing the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pants pocket, the orb had turned into map form. Highlighting the section of the map with a black line covering the name, the hyena highlighted the waypoint to Twinning Isle within seconds. Lewod and Pira within close proximity of him, the fast travel back to the islands had begun.

Castle soon upon him, the party of two had gave him especially stern looks. What more could they have possible have needed to say to him? He supposed he had no choice but to hear them out. Small table with a red tablecloth soon reached, the two sat down at the table. Raven statues almost looking as though they were about to move, a shock shot down his spine. Had someone else been listening in?

"From now on, you're not stepping into any water that looks deep," Pira scolded, words still calm and chill no matter what. "It's dangerous. We're not taking any chances." Lewod's voice had soon join the party.

"And, you won't be investigating anything today!" Lewod chimed in. Their hands had been folded into two fists. How unladylike of them. Unfolding their fists, they instead twirled their hair. "Eat dinner with us, and take the rest of the day off!"

Not seeming like he was being given a choice, the chimera allowed a tired sigh escape the throat. He knew if he tried to continue his work, the two obstacles would stop him every step of the way, for sure. Defeat blowing its horn upon the battlefield, the soldier had no choice but to accept his fate. Dinner soon devoured, the early adult returned to his temporary abode.

Next day coming at him fast, the hyena studied the teleport waypoint proxy map with due diligence. As he looked at the locations of the Haar Islands, an odd symbol had appeared near the Pudding Isle area of the map. Icon of a plant appearing as though it had always been there, the hyena tilted his head. Knowing he had to investigate any changes that had occurred on the islands, the chimera would not falter.

Nathair appearing outside xer clothing dungeon, the hyena blinked. Only having seen Nathair twice in the two weeks he had been in the far off islands, the soldier had still wondered. Just how busy had xe been? He supposed it was no business of his if xe had a clothing business. Everyone's food devoured, the hyena opened his map in complete silence.

Six eyes turning to look at him, the chimera pointed to the plant icon on the map. Pointing to it twice, he gave eye contact to the six eyes in front of him. Would they be able to understand what he had been trying to say? He knew wordless communication was not easy for everyone to follow. Nathair looking as though xe had something to say, Siorc turned his attention to xem.

"I'll be coming along with you all, too," xe said, standing up. "Let me go into my room and get our swords, dears." Stepping out of the room for a moment, xer presence had been gone within an instant.

Nathair exiting to grab a set of three swords, the soldier returned to his temporary room, for a moment. Claymore hooked to the seat of his pants, and delusion placed on the bottom, the soldier had been ready. Knowing he needed the notebook as well, the large bag had to come with him as well.

Pira steering the boat towards Pudding Isle, a long trip across the water had begun. Isle named after a dessert reached after about an hour, the group of four exited the boat. But, a shocking sight bewildered the chimera in an instant. The island's scenery had almost changed overnight. Trees with many different colored leaves replacing the normal ones, wanderlust had begun to eat the hyena. The Fatui's machine, had it finally changed the landscape? But such had not been the only change.

In the corner upon a rock had been a tiny plant potted into a ceramic casing. The plant had white bark wood that bended over. Dark green pine leaves on every branch, the wanderlust only continued to grow. When had a tiny plant been placed within the Pudding Isle? Being away for three days was a beast indeed.

Seeing the look of bewilderment on Pira's face, the hyena could not help but feel a smidgeon of concern. Why had he looked so somber and downtrodden for a moment? Had the plant had some significance to his childhood, in some way? Whatever it was that the plant meant to him, he knew he had to leave any questions he had back into the windowless boat. Pira looking like he had something to say, the early adult turned his attention to him.

"Strange, it's that calming plant Uncle Tigre gave me during my teen years," Pira said, bewildered. "How did this get here?"

Hands on the plant, a blinding light had soon engulfed the group of four. Plant transporting them to some sort of subspace, the hyena closed his eyes. Teleportation to a new area soon about to unfold, the early adult had one singular question float around in his mind.

Where was the plant transporting them to?

***

"That plant, it really takes me back.
How many years has it been?
Even so, that was so many years ago.

Can no longer remember how long it has been.
All I recall is my Uncle gave it to me.
Looks like it was so many years ago, I have forgotten the time frame.
Many years have passed since we have come here.
I am no longer the angry Pira I used to be.
No longer do I feel irritation, anger, indignance.
Guess times have truly changed.

Perhaps this plant is a representation of my memory,
Looks like those red flashes over the horizon had done something,
After all that machine can likely do anything,
Nothing is out of the question.
Though the memories that are about to resurface,

Maybe they will be unpleasant,
Yes, for that plant is connected to my past self,

Ultimately, I need to remain calm.
Never should I get angry. Such
Could turn on my piranha brain,
Laying back, keeping chill, this is how it has to be.
Even if something bothers me, I cannot get angry,

Getting angry is a danger to everyone around me
At least on these islands, no one is here,
Vehemence is not something I feel anymore, anyway.
Every day, I remain cool, calm and collected.

Maybe that plant helped me get to this point,
Even though it has been years, I am now certain."

Strange plant teleporting them to an area unknown, the soldier observed his surroundings. Observing the area he had been in, the chimera could not help but feel a sense of familiarity to him. Brown floors and walls with Liyuean tapestry. Had he been transported back into Teyvat through the plant? But something had been off as he kept looking around.

The stairs leading to the bottom floor had been gone, and the boss who had been around at all times had been missing. The chimera could not help but notice, the area had felt distorted, warped; missing necessities. But such had not been the only oddities present in the possible other worldly version of Wangshu Inn.

Pira had not been around, in any capacity. Had he been teleported to a separate area within the domain? The hyena supposed such could have been possible. The world of domains was a complete and utter mystery to the early adult. But, he knew if were to get out of the subspace, he would have to keep walking. Lewod and Nathair looking as lost in thought as he had been, the soldier waited.

Domain looking rather familiar, Lewod turned to Nate. The domain, had it been a manifestation of Pira's memories back when he had worked in Wangshu Inn as an angry teenager? They recalled how much of a troubling time that was for him, overall. If they would have to look at his past memories through some domain show, they would need to remain cautious, for the moment.

Area looking similar to a job Pira once had, Nathair turned to Leah. Xe recalled the time Pira had gotten in trouble at work for getting angry at a customer at Wangshu Inn. Had the domain been a manifestation of his much more transformative period of his life when he had been unable to control his emotions? Xe supposed exploring the domain to find an exit was the only option. Nodding to xer sister, the two stepped forward.

Seeing Nathair and Lewod step forward, Siorc stepped one step behind them. Did the two of them know their way through the distorted version of Wangshu Inn? He supposed he would follow their lead. Inn hallways still looking distorted as he went on, a major oddity had soon blocked the path as an obstacle.

What looked to be an inn room in front of them, an odd screen with the silhouette of a human being on it had appeared. Person's shadow looking terrified, a slew of words had been said by the shadow in the odd screen in the center of the room, but only two singular words had any meaning applied to them.

"Calm down!" the shadow's voice said.

Screen disappearing and shadow vanishing, the party of three kept walking, but another Liyuean screen had soon gotten in the way. Shadow of a much younger Pira appearing within the screen, the shadow's fists had been balled up. Was a battle about to start within the distorted inn? Shadow looking ready to respond to the previous one, the group of three continued listening.

"Maybe if you'd have told me right the first time this wouldn't be happening!" young Shadow Pira screamed.

Multiple screens with shadows telling a shadow Pira to calm down, nothing had truly been changing within the domain. Seeing such scenes play out before his very mismatched eyes, the chimera could feel himself shake. Had he stepped into someone else's past? Would having to listen be considered prying into something that was no business of his? He knew he had no choice in the matter, considering the space he had currently been in.

Walking forward for awhile, more Liyuan screens used for scenic decoration had blocked the way, but the inn rooms had soon changed into a new area. Area looking like a battleground, a terrified shadow appeared within the screen, a chilling line had been unleashed by the shadow.

"Just because you have a Pyro Vision, doesn't mean you can attack me for one little mistake!" the shadow shouted. "I've had enough! Let my Slimechurls teach you a lesson!"

Set of six Slimes with Hilichurl like feet appearing after the screen shadow announced them, Lewod and Nathair had swords in their hands. Footed Slimes being every element but Hydro and Cryo, water and ice attacks had danced around the battlefield. Slimechurls defeated before he could even do anything, the group of three continued to walk forward.

Staircase soon upon the group of three, Pira had been waiting. Pira looking quite lost in thought, Nathair and and Lewod soon joined him. Pira eventually turning to look at his siblings, the soldier stepped seven steps away. The sibling would need space, surely. Pira looking ready to say something, the hyena stared off into the distance.

"This domain made me remembered how angry I was," Pira said, reminiscing. I barely recognized this version of myself." As he said such, the space had begun to warp around the group of four.

Pudding Isle soon reappearing within his field of damaged vision, many questions had begun to race within the hyena's head. The domain, why had it only allowed them to exit after they had reunited with Pira? He supposed further investigation of the domain was a necessity if he wish to uncover all the secrets.

Returning back to the castle, the chimera wrote down his discoveries in the notebook. Documenting everything he could within the papers of the bound log, the hyena continued to think back at the subspace area the siblings and he had been transported into. The domain, it had reflected the memories of the person who touched it. The soldier had begun to wonder. If he had touched the plant, would the domain play his memories? He supposed he could return to the area tomorrow, and find out.

Waking up the next morning, the hyena was ready. Knowing the domain had not reached its end, the soldier pointed to the plant symbol within his proxy map once again. Cramped boat with four people heading to Pudding Isle once again, the soldier remained still within the windowless vessel.

Calming plant soon in front of him, the hyena touched the plant. But, no such teleportation into the domain had occurred. Did the domain only open to the one that the memories were connected to? He supposed such could have been the case. Pira touching the tree once again, a light engulfed the group of four. Domain soon re-entered, Pira had been nowhere to be seen.

Inn domain looking slightly different from last time, the soldier observed his surroundings. Distorted hotel rooms being locked with some sort of door, the hyena turned his head to the left. Green leaves from the calming plant outside encased in some sort of yellow ring, the chimera continued looking. Device emitting a yellow light, the early adult examined the device.

Lewod and Nahtair looking around as well, a major discovery had come to light within seconds. Devices that could be rotated to push the yellow light forward, the party of two rotated the objects towards the leaf encased in yellow. Devices emitting yellow waves, they had soon hit the leaf. Leaf soon accessible, Siorc grabbed the small leaf as fast as his currently human hands would allow.

Leaf soon turning into a key, another decorative screen had appeared. Shadow with long hair and hyena ears, the soldier tilted his head. Had there been more hyena chimeras around Teyvat? Shadow reflecting Pira's memory, he supposed it could have been anything, really. Pin placed into the thought, the shadow had begun to speak.

"You need to control your anger, Pira!" the animal eared shadow scolded. Their fists were shaking. "You can't work that job anymore if you keep getting this angry! Your piranha brain will turn on!"

Hearing the shadow say piranha brain, the hyena raised an eyebrow. Had Pira been similar to him? Chimeras being all around and beyond, other chimeras with only partially human brains had to have been somewhat of an uncommon occurrence. Shadow done talking soon after, the group of three kept traversing the domain.

Another long corridor with a locked door, the hyena searched the area. Second leaf encased in a red light, Lewod and Nathair looked around the area, as well. Similar device to the other room, the party of two rotated the objects towards the leaf encased in red. Devices emitting red waves, they had soon hit the second leaf. Leaf soon accessible, the chimera placed the left into his currently human hands.

Second leaf turned into a key, a broken decorative screen had appeared in the center of the inn room. Teenage Pira's shadow appearing in the screen, the soldier could feel his heart sink in his chest. Why had the shadow looked ready to cry? The memory had to have been a rough one for Pira.

"I just feel so angry!" shadow Pira shouted, words choking. "I can't help it!"

Door soon opening up into another long corridor, the group of three kept walking forward. Big hotel room with another screen door soon present, the shadow of a Slime with Hilichurl feet soon appeared. Group of seven Slimechurls appearing in the room as though by magic, a battle had soon begun. Not wanting to leave it to Lewod and Nathair, the chimera removed the claymore from the hooks of his uniform pants.

Not wishing to rely on Her Majesty's delusion, the chimera swung the greatsword forward. Nine slashes blown upon the Slimechurl, the monster with mismatched legs melted onto the domain floor. Slimechurl with Cryo capabilities immune to Lewod's attacks, the hyena's rapid slashes continued. Ten slashes blown upon the Cryo Slimechurl, defeat had echoed throughout the subspace. Five other monsters taken down by the combination of Cryo and Hydro, the war between mirages and real people had been won.

Next door soon opening, another staircase had appeared. Pira looking lost in thought, Lewod and Nathair had soon been right by his side. Pira reflecting on his past for a moment, the hyena could feel a sense of bravery from the tall man. How incredibly fearless he had been, to be able to look back on his past and come out stronger.

"I've changed so much since then," Pira said, reflecting on himself. "That kid I used to be, I wish he could see me now." As he said such, the space around the four had begun to warp once again.

Isle named after a dessert soon reappearing, the hyena could feel his questions from the other day beginning to answer themselves. Only able to exit the domain once reuniting with Pira and him reflecting on his past, the answer had been clear to him. The domain could only be exited if the person had come to peace with their past. Knowing such had to have been the answer, his notes would become more fleshed out, for sure.

Returning to the castle, the chimera soon updated the entry about the domain in the Haar Island travel log. Writing down speculative conclusions, the hyena had come to wonder. Domain still looking as though it had more in it, traversing the area one more time had to come into fruition tomorrow. Resolute on his decision, the early adult crawled into the foreign bed for the evening.

Next day upon him, the group of three siblings did not bat a singular eyelash at the chimera's suggestion to return to the dessert named isle one more time. Pudding Isle soon reached once again, Pira touched the calming plant. Teleportation within subspace happening within seconds, the familiar inn domain had soon graced the group of three's fields of visions.

Pira once again not with them, the group of three walked forward. Inn domain having an outdoors, a familiar sight from the world outside had soon appeared within the warped space before the group of three. Shadow appearing by the outdoors next to the calming plant, a conversation had soon played out.

"This is a calming plant, Pira," the shadow said, pointing to the plant in the ceramic casing. "It will help you with your anger."

Teenage Pira shadow soon appearing next to the plant, a loud scoff echoed through the domain hallways. Shadow Pira holding his stomach and laughing about, the hyena could not help but feel a ray of pity. Pira's past self continuing to laugh, pity formed a cherry pit in the chimera's stomach.

"Yeah, right, Uncle Tigre!" shadow Pira scoffed. "What a load of hooey! As if a plant will help me!"

Only way through the domain being to descend the Wangshu Inn staircase, another group of shadows had soon appeared towards the bottom of the stairs. Shadow Pira looking deep in thought, the soldier and party of two listened to the next shadow in silence.

"Maybe everyone is right. I really need to rethink my life going forward," Shadow Pira said, lamenting. "Being angry in life all the time isn't the way I should be." Space soon warping around them, the domain had soon changed right before the party of three's eyes.

Multiple shadows saying they were heading to the Haar Islands, a path leading towards a black dragon soon appeared. Pira sitting upon the black dragon's back, Lewod and Nathair followed the path almost as though they had remembered the day exactly. Siorc following behind like a duck in the pond, the party of three regrouped with Pira within seconds.

Black Dragon soaring into the domain sky, Pira had looked lost in thought once again. Had the memories at hand been heavier for him than the last ones? Lewod and Nathair staying quiet, a dragon ride in silence looped on repeat. But the silence soon ended.

"You know, that plant, it really helped me out a lot," Pira reminisced, eyes closed. "I feel so much stronger now." As he said such, space had begun to warp around the party of four.

Familiar dessert named isle soon reappearing, the three siblings let out a yawn. Windowless vessel soon entered for the third time in a row, the castle had soon been reached. Party of three attending to their own business, the night raven castle had become silent.

Opening the Haar Island Travel Notes once again, the hyena recorded his third journey within the domain. Documenting the domain had ended with a ride upon a dragon, everything had been logged within the book. Noting nothing had been left of the domain, the soldier slammed the book shut, for now. Although, he knew it would not be the last time he would need to use it.

Only two weeks remained.

Knowing Fatui had still be rampant around the island, more changes would happen around the rest of the isles would happen for sure. Feeling a wave of fatigue soon hit him, the soldier climbed into the foreign castle bed. Another day of exploration awaited him tomorrow.

Upon awakening the next morning, Lewod had come to an epiphany. Saying they should head for the Broken Isle next, the windowless boat had soon cruised across the water. Broken Isle reached within an hour, the soldier had instantly come to notice. Had the Broken Isle been wetter than it had been before? The hyena did not know, but such change had not been the only one. Surrounding the island had been various plant roots that had not been there previously. How could such tree roots grow practically overnight? The Haar Islands were a mystery to behold.

Seeing Nathair fold xer arms towards a musical instrument wrapped in vines, the hyena had come to wonder. Was the harp related to xem in some way? Noticing the first person to gravitate towards an item within the sibling trio had been the one most associated with the next domain forming, the hyena figured such answer could be the only case. Nathair soon looking as though xe had something to say, the chimera turned his attention to xem.

"Huh, this looks similar to the harp I used to play in my bard group," Nathair said, puzzled. "I should probably play it."

Playing a tune on the harp, space had begun to warp around the party of four. Harp tune transporting them to some sort of subspace, the chimera closed his eyes. Fast travel to the new space soon about to unfold, the early adult had one singular question on his mind.

What kind of subspace would he enter this time?

***

"Melodious music playing, it really takes me back.
Years ago, I was a bard with two friends as

Feminine as me,
Opting to perform as "girls" we wore dresses,
Remembering this now, it really helped me discovery myself,
Myself, and who I really wanted to be.
Every now and again I remember those days,
Recalling my exploration of who I am. But,

Life comes with many surprises,
In the end, I was not a girl,
Femininity was more than enough for me.
Even so, my manly body, it had to go.

Aspiring to look less like a man.
Some adjustments to my life had been made.

All those levels of male juice inside me,

Basically dried up like a river.
After all those years passed since I had been a bard.
Really, it helped me find me.
Do not think I could by myself if I had not taken that path.

It may not be something I do anymore, but my two friends, we're still tight.
Now and again meeting up to discuss where to take our fashion next,

Many ideas are formed.
Ordinary days are me busy sewing,
Never would I change it any way. Friend
Drawing designs for me, I bring the ideas to life.
So many new outfits I could sell, but
This island is so far away.
Although, Mondstadt is but a mere dragon ride away.
Dragon transporting me back to Teyvat.
The monthly meetups with my fashion friends continue, even if it is slowly."

Melodic tone transporting them to an area unknown, the hyena observed his surroundings. But, he could not help but feel as though he was drawing many blanks as he continued his observation. Within every centimeter of him had been an odd platform that looked like some sort of stage. Trees everywhere, the soldier tilted his head. The domain had looked nothing like anywhere in Teyvat.

Dome looking as though it lead to absolutely nowhere, the group of four stepped forward. Nathair not being teleported far away, the party had not been decreased by one. Everyone splitting up to look around for clues, another harp with vines around it soon appeared. Group of four looking at one another, Nathair had soon walked towards the instrument.

"Huh, guess it's my turn to relive my memories," Nathair said quietly. "I shall deal with all the puzzles."

Golden harps surrounding the area, Nathair stepped forward. Button soon appearing in the center of the bard dome, xe hit the button. Gold harps glowing one by one, a puzzle had been laid out to dry. Answer seeming simple, Nathair followed the harps in the way the lights had been casted on them. Correct order given, the first puzzle had been solved.

Path soon opening up, the group of four proceeded through the bard stage. But an obstacle soon presented itself on domain display. Door with the shadow of a young woman with animal ears again, Nathair's eyes had begun to twitch. Witnessing such, another pity cherry had formed in the center of Siorc's stomach. Had the memory in the door been a painful one?

"Nathair, young man, where are you going?" the shadow asked, the sound of a foot stamping echoed throughout the domain.

Harps soon appearing, the second button had been pressed. Playing the harps in the correct order, the door had been opened. Next pathway leading to another door with a shadow of a young boy, Nathair's eyes had begun to twitch once again. Reliving memories had to have been a painful experience for xem.

"I'm going to Mondstadt to start a bard group!" a young Nathair said, xer voice was deep and masculine.

More harps appearing, the puzzle had soon been dealt with. Next path opening up, the party of four proceeded forward. But, the next shadow door had been a horrific sight to behold. Witnessing Nathair begin to pace around a smidgeon, the hyena placed his hand on xer shoulder. Memories were horrifying, indeed.

"Dressed like THAT?" the shadow asked, disgusted.

Hearing the disgust in the shadow's voice, Nathair could feel xemself flinch. No matter how many years were to pass, the memory of xer mother's early disapproval of xer gender exploration stung like a thousand Cicins in the open wilderness back in Mondstadt. But, xe knew xe had to bear it or everyone would be trapped within the domain forevermore.

Taking notice that their sibling looked upset, Lewod extended their hand. The shadow doors had to have been getting to xem, for sure. Maybe it was time to take a small break. Although, whether such were possible within the scape of a warped space remained to be seen. They supposed asking was still worth a shot.

"Are you okay, Nate?" Lewod asked. "Do you want to take a quick break?"

"Don't push yourself too hard," Pira chimed in. "Let's sit for a few minutes."

Hearing xer siblings suggest a break, Nathair shook xer head. Was there any time for a break? Exiting the domain was much more of a priority. A break could wait for when they were able to escape the sea of memories. Stepping forward, xe made xer answer known throughout the privacy of the warped space.

Noticing Nathair had put xer feelings aside, the chimera could not help but feel a sense of relief throw the cherry pit inside his partially human stomach away. The group of three siblings was a lot stronger than they let on. No puzzles happening for awhile, another shadow door had soon appeared.

Shadow Nathair proclaiming yes, the domain had soon begun to shift and change shape. Warped version of the Mondstadt plaza near the Barbatos statute, three shadow doors had soon appeared in front of it. Three shadows with short hair behind screen doors, a conversation had begun.

"You don't want to be boys, as well?" Shadow Nathair asked, inquisitive. One of the shadows soon answered, in an instant.

"Yes, but," the middle shadow said. As the shadow said such, a large bucket had soon appeared in the center of the doors. "First, I need water." As the phrase had been uttered, space had once again warped around the group of four.

Broken Isle soon reappearing, the objective had been stored within the chimera's memory. The shadows, they said they needed water. Hearing the group of three yawn loudly, however, collecting the spring water had to be halted, for the moment. Raven castle soon returned to, the hyena returned to his temporary room.

Opening the notebook, the soldier documented the domain within the pages with due diligence. Everything about the domain recorded in the log, the soldier wrote down any hypothesizes in the margins. Suspecting different islands were connected to another member of the sibling trio, the early adult looked over his notes. Surely, his hypothesis would lead to something.

Returning to Broken Isle the next day, the soldier would not falter. Recalling there had been pools of water towards the top of a large mountainscape, the hyena searched for an easy climb up. Layout of the area having since changed, finding a simple solution to climbing up had been beyond his reach. But a solution had come after about twenty minutes.

Seeing a large tree ascending to the top of the mountain, the hyena climbed upward. Sibling trio waiting for him by the harp, the pool of water had soon been discovered. Given a small bottle to draw water into, the soldier dipped bottle into the small pool. Figuring enough water had been drawn, the early adult returned to the sibling trio.

Nathair playing the harp once again, a blinding light engulfed the group of four. Domain soon re-entered, the spot they had been left in was still there. Had Nathair's memory domain not been as warped within subspace as Pira's? The chimera supposed he was about to find out. Small bucket soon filled with water, the next path had been opened.

Long winding path looping around, a group of six harps rose upon a podium. Playing the harps in the correct order, three shadows had soon appeared on the stage. Three shadows all wearing dresses, a conversation had soon echoed through the domain stage.

"We'll call ourselves...the princesses!" the leftmost shadow said, voice deep. "And perform as women and see if it feels right."

Six more harps appearing on the edge of the stage, Nathair quickly played the puzzle in the correct order, but such puzzle had been a mirage. Odd looking monsters with instruments in their hands dancing about with a fervor, the chimera removed his greatsword from the hook of his uniform pants. Figuring using the Delusion to defeat the monsters in one swoop would push the domain to its exit sooner, the sinister dark purple orb glowed on his uniform pants.

Black clouds of electricity surrounding him, the monsters had faded to ether within an instant. Dark aura soon surrounding him, a wave of fatigue had devoured the chimera. But, he knew he had no choice but to keep going. Small path forming in front of the party of four, the group kept walking.

Path to a house soon forming, multiple monsters had blocked the way. Still wishing for the battles to be quick, electricity of delusional creation soon surrounded the hyena. Monsters zapped into ashes, another wave of dark aura surrounded him. Had the delusion Her Majesty let him borrow automatically dispel the life draining energy? Still feeling tired, messages had begun to mix together inside him.

House soon reached, Nathair entered the abode solo. Multiple conversations about bard related activities playing out like some sort of story, Nathair could feel a wave of nostalgia hit xem. But such nostalgia had come to an end within an instant. Friend saying they needed water once again, space had begun to warp around the group of four.

Broken Isle reappearing once again, the next objective to obtain water had echoed through his inhuman eardrums. But, as he readied himself to draw water again, his heart had begun to beat unevenly in his chest. Party of four pushing him towards the boat, the castle had soon been reached.

Feeling his energy quickly begin to deplete, the hyena recorded anything he could within the notebook. Heart beating wildly in his chest as he recorded the experience within the notebook, the chimera took multiple deep breaths. Heartbeat dissipating into normalcy, the early adult's hands had been steady. Everything about the current state of the domain written down, the man slumped into the foreign bed.

Returning to the Broken Isle the next day, the hyena looked around for the other pool he recalled finding the first time he had documented the area. Water soon within his reach, the bottle had been dipped into the pool. Figuring he had enough, the soldier returned to the sibling trio. Nathair playing the harp for what he assumed was the final time, the blinding light engulfed the group of four once again.

Domain re-entered, the scene had been different from the previous one. Warped version of Mondstadt in front of them, the water had soon been delivered to the shadow. Shadow performance playing on the stage, shadow people clapped their hands about in an cheerful uproar. Long winding path soon appearing once again, the party of four kept walking.

As the path halted for a moment, another group of doors with shadows in them appeared. Hearing Nathair let out a somber laugh, the chimera turned to xem. Had xe been feeling nostalgic? Memories feeling much lighter to watch as the shadows went on, another conversation had begun to erupt between the three shadows.

"There's something I need to discuss with you two," the first shadow said. "I am a girl." Shadow placing her hand on her heart, the next shadow soon spoke.

"Actually, I have something I'd like to discuss as well," the second shadow said. "I'm not a girl, I just like being feminine." Nathair's shadow then soon entered the conversation.

"I was thinking of discussing this with you guys as well," Nathair's shadow said, lamenting. "I am not a girl, but I am not a boy, either. I just like presenting femininely." The shadow Nathair then said something that shocked the core of the domain world. "Discovering this, I don't feel like I need to do this anymore. Why don't do a goodbye performance?"

Large harp soon appearing in the center of the stage, Nathair stepped forward. Playing a final performance, the shadows in the background played their harps in tandem. Shadow people soon clapping the domain had soon begun to change before everyone's eyes.

Multiple shadows soon saying they would be heading to the Haar Islands, a path leading to a black dragon soon appeared. Gust of wind thrusting the group forward, the party of four had been nestled on the dragon's back. Black dragon heading off towards the sky, Nathair closed xer eyes for a moment.

"I kind of liked seeing my journey unfold," Nathair lamented. "Look how far I've come since my bard days. I'm sure younger me would be proud." As xe said such, space had begun to warp around the party of four.

Familiar Broken Isle soon returned to, the three siblings soon let out predictable yawns. Windowless vessel returned to, the castle had been reached within an hour or so. Party of three soon returning to their own business, the raven castle had fallen silent.

Opening the notebook once again, the soldier recorded his journey. But, something had not made any sense to him. Nathair's domain, it had a black dragon in it, as well. Why had every memory domain ended the exact same way? He supposed he would have to continue investigating as time went on. But such thought was halted within seconds.

Feeling his heart beat unevenly in his chest, the hyena took a deep breath. Delusion glowing a dark, sinister aura on his uniform pants, the chimera unhooked the Delusion from his uniform pants. Perhaps, just maybe, removing the orb would end the raging heartbeat within. An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part. Slumping into the foreign bed, the raging heartbeat continuing in the land of dreams.

Next day an uneven heartbeat away, another odd object had appeared on his proxy map. Strange icon that looked like a dollhouse appearing in the center of the Minacious Isle, the hyena reported the incident to the group of siblings. But, such oddity had not been the only one. Sky tinted a sinister shade of purple, the hyena tilted his head. The Fatui on the other island, just how far had the machine changed the landscape?

Windowless vessel cruising over towards Minacious Isle, the soldier remained still. Isle reached after about an hour, the group of four exited the boat. As the isle appeared within his damaged field of vision, various changes had made their presence known to the chimera. Minacious Isle, had it been in the shape of a dollhouse before? The early adult did not know. Memories had begun to vanish like a ghost.

Witnessing Lewod head towards a dollhouse with ice crystals glowing like stars, the soldier had come to an instant conclusion. The dollhouse, it was connected to Lewod in some way. Lewod playing with their hair ribbons, the hyena turned to them. The next domain was about to be warped into, surely.

"Wow, it's my old dollhouse!" Lewod exclaimed, almost excited. "I wonder what cute domain awaits me in here?!"

Opening the dollhouse door, space had begun to warp around the party of four. Dollhouse door sending them to some form of subspace, the chimera closed his eyes. Teleportation to the new space soon about to unfold, the hyena instantly had come to wonder.

What kind of domain would he enter this time?

***

"It's the dollhouse I used to play with when I was younger,

Ah, but in reality, it was actually my friend's
My friend's, that didn't want it anymore.

After some time, she let me have it, I accepted it happily.

Playing with it in secret, those
Retched, yucky boy toys were behind me.
Even now, I still miss that dollhouse,
The dollhouse that made me feel alive,
The dollhouse that took me away from being forced to be a boy.
Yet my mother protested when I told her I wanted to be a princess.

'Princess, but you're a boy!
Retched 'b' word said to me,
I would not talk to mama that whole day.
Now that I am an adult, I can be the feminine self I always wished to be.
Can no longer be denied my identity.
Every day is happy in these islands.
Sometimes, though, doctors make grave mistakes.
Sometimes, they say 'he'.

In a crisis, I slash my hyena claws.
'No, I am not the 'b' word, I am not a boy!'

And I never was, and never will be.
Never have been, never will be.

It is always feels like I died whenever a doctor says 'he'
Cannot help but feel anger boil inside me.
Every time mama takes me to those quicky quacks,

Constant pain corrupts me.
Ah, but everything else is pure, and happy.
So many dresses in my wardrobe, I feel at ease.
The days on this island, I do cherish them.
Looks like those Fatui want us all to relive our memories,
Even so, I can face them head on, and laugh at past me. I am ready."

Dollhouse door transporting them to an area unknown, the soldier observed his surroundings. Although, the surroundings had been an astonishment to behold. The domain had been almost normal looking compared to Nathair and Pira's, but one thing had stuck out to the chimera. Ice crystals in the form of stars on the ground, another thing had stuck out even more. The colors of the floor had been pastel, pink and girly. Resonating slightly with the pastel, the hyena had the faintest of smiles on his lips, but he knew he had to shake it off. A challenge awaited him.

Domain soon becoming a large hallway, multiple stuffed animals had been lying on the floor. But the stuffed animals had been quite strange. Although, one particular stuffed animal stuck out amongst the crowd. Lion stuffed animal standing on its own two feet and having words to say, the hyena crouched down. Sibling trio listening as well, the stuffed animal spoke.

"No, mommy," the lion stuffed animal cried. "I want to be a princess!"

Hearing Lewod giggle a little, the chimera had come to a conclusion. The lion had been Lewod as a young child. He supposed, if they had found this enjoyable to look back on, he had nothing to feel concerned about, at the moment in time. But, another stuffed animal soon stood up. Lioness stuffed animal walking towards the lion, an argument made rounds in the hallway.

"Boys can't be princesses!" the lioness plushie argued.

Lewod breaking out into a giggle, a somber smile had appeared on their face. They had remembered this conversation. They remembered the day almost like it had been yesterday. The younger version of themselves had been so sad, and meek back then. But, they knew they had come a long way since then. Feeling something form at their lips, present Lewod spoke.

"I used to be so sad back then whenever mama called me a boy," Lewod lamented, somber smile on face. "We should keep going and find the exit!"

Corridor feeling longer than normal, another tiny lion stuffed animal had soon appeared. Stuffed animal standing on its legs. Lion doll looking upset, the group of four crouched down to listen. Did the stuffed animal have some sort of problem that needed to be solved? If so, the party of four had been ready for anything.

"Mommy, I'm not a boy!" the little lion doll shouted, voice pained. "They need to stop saying I'm one!" However, the pain continued. Lioness doll soon walking onto the scene, harsh words filled the domain with toxic poisons.

"Yes, you are, Lewod, you're a boy, alright?" the second doll said, irritated. But, such words had made the toxic poisons rise further.

Hallway leading to a battleground, Lewod sprinted inward. Army of stuffed animals with swords looking ready to fight, the group of four unsheathed their weapons. Lewod's sword having a cute ribbon on it, they slashed forward. But, another lion plushie soon rose to the podium about to fight back.

"Everyone says I'm this boy that I'm not!" the little lion plushie shouted. "I'm not a boy!! I've never been!" Sword glowing an icy power, icicles had charged towards them.

Hydro and Pyro colliding with multiple plushies, the chimera's Delusion glowed a sinister aura on his pants. Would using the sinister orb Her Majesty let him borrow be alright? He knew the more he used it, the quicker his energy would deplete. But, the stuffed animal army fighting felt almost endless.

Black clouds of electricity surrounding him within an instant, multiple stuffed animals had been electrocuted to smithereens. Dark aura surrounding him once again, the chimera's heart had begun to beat wildly in his chest. Had his heart been beating even harder than before? He swore he could feel his heart in his throat at this point.

Feeling an overwhelming amount of energy flowing through them, Lewod's elemental energy was at its maximum. The ultimate attack had been ready. Feet in the position of a pirouette, the time had come for a dance of ice to defeat the army of stuffed animals in an instant.

"Hop! Step! Jump!" Lewod shouted, fired up. "Waltz of ice!"

Ice surrounding Lewod's feet, the young lady danced like a princess in her own castle. Ice freezing the domain floor, multiple armed stuffed animals had fallen to the floor. Flaming and aquatic sword attacks joining the party, space had begun to warp around the party of four as the battle had begun to end.

Minacious Isle reappearing once again, bewilderment ate the hyena like Northern Smoked Chicken. The domain, it had removed everyone despite Lewod not reflecting upon their life. Had this domain been far more different than the others? He supposed he would have to return to the domain tomorrow if he wished to get any answers.

Isolated room soon within his reach, the soldier recorded his journey within the notebook. But, as he wrote down his experiences, the painful unevenness in his heart only beat harder. Black aura soon engulfing him, the hyena removed the Delusion from his uniform pants. But, such had not been enough, the raging heartbeat within would not cease beating painfully.

Taking a deep breath, the hyena continued recording his findings. Everything written down, for the moment, the chimera slammed the book shut with a silent roar. Energy draining even faster than before, the chimera slumped into the foreign bed. Surely, sleeping would make his heartbeat return to normalcy.

Next day a painful uneven heartbeat way, the group of four quickly returned to the Minacious Isle. Dollhouse doors open, the transportation back into the odd subspace played out faster than the hyena's mismatched eyes could follow. Although, dejavu had nibbled the hyena on the ear.

Domain back at the entrance, the soldier titled his head. Why had the domain brought them all back to the entrance? Looking to the right and left, multiple doorways had been off to the sides. Heading towards the right side, however, a strange puzzle awaited the party of four.

Ice crystals in mismatched formations, an epiphany had overcome Lewod. Would arranging the ice crystals into the shape of a five pointed star be the answer to the puzzle? Moving the ice crystals into a five pointed star shape, the sound of a door clicking open echoed throughout the hallways.

Heading towards the unlocked door, another hallway had been reached. Multiple stuffed animals in the hallways, the soldier tilted his head. Lioness stuffed animals replaced with a snake, the early adult hoped a major shift in Lewod's memories was not about to occur. If any crying were happen, he would allow for his shoulder to be used. Not helping those who had been already assisting him would be a disgusting sin of misgiving.

Little lion stuffed animal looking slightly bigger now standing on its feet, the hyena crouched down. What did the little lion have to say this time? Whatever it was, he knew he had to keep listening to the messages playing if the domain were to be able to keep going.

"Nate, teach me how to sound like a girl!" the little lion plushie begged, desperate.

Hearing Lewod giggle like yesterday, the hyena could feel relief wash over him. He supposed if Lewod was still enjoying this memory montage, he had no reason to worry about whether they would cry, or not. Snake stuffed animal soon slithering onto the scene, the next part of the conversation made its echo hit the walls.

"Why is that?" the snake plushie asked, inquisitive.

Corridor continuing for awhile, another lion stuffed animal stood up on its own two feet. Lion doll placing its little paw on its heart, the hyena crouched down. Had younger Lewod been in pain? Did the stuffed animal need help in some way? Lewod's memory domain being odder than the others, anything was possible.

"Because I don't want to sound like a boy!" the little lion plushie cried, voice pained. "I'd rather die!" Doll finished talking, the group of four cruised through the corridor.

Snake plushie slithering onto the scene, the chimera swore the plushie's eyes had soon looked like Nathair's. Had the domain been shifting? The soldier did not know, but every second passing was another strange phenomenon within the mirage of memories.

"Alright," the snake plushie said. "I'll talk to my friend and get her to help you."

Corridor coming to an end, another battleground had soon been underneath the party of four's feet. Stuffed animals with swords charging at everyone with maximum power, the soldier's Delusion had been glowing an even more sinister dark aura than before. Electricity clouding into a pool of black lightning around his entire body, bolts of delusional lightning had been fired at the triple dozen stuffed animal monsters. All thirty-six stuffed animals dropping one after another, space had begun to warp around the party of four as the battle had reached its end.

Returning to Minacious Isle, the chimera could feel his body begin to sway forward. Consciousness almost about to slip away, the hyena's heart had begun to beat even harder. The Delusion, just how much energy had it taken out of him at this point? Closing his eyes, his ears had begun to buzz.

Seeing their cousin start to fall over, Pira had called to action. The orb on the young man's pants, had it not been a Vision? Face looking extremely pale, carrying him back to the castle so he did not need to walk would make everything easier. Catching him before he fell to the ground, he spoke softly.

"Woah, kiddo, are you alright?" Pira asked, concerned. Lifting his cousin up, he placed him on his back. "I'll carry you. You're not looking so good. So, let's finish for this for today."

Placed on Pira's back, the soldier shut his eyes. Having no energy to argue, the world of involuntary sleep soon took him away. Waking up sometime later, the hyena's heart continued to beat wildly in his chest. The Delusion, why had its drawbacks affected the part of his body that had already been the weakest? Knowing he had to record his experiences in the travel log, the chimera removed the book from the bag.

But such recording had been nearly impossible. Feeling his hands begin to shake as he stroked the quilled pen, writing words could not happen. Grabbing his right wrist with his left hand, the shaking had soon stopped. Recording more information about the domain, the soldier figured he had written enough for the day. Closing his eyes, a world of pained sleep awaited him.

Waking up the next morning was a battle to behold. Feeling his ears begin to buzz and fuzz enter his mind, the soldier slapped his cheeks. He had no time for such weakness. The final part of the domain had to be conquered today. Only eight days of the project remained. He could not allow such weaknesses win.

Windowless boat soon taking the party of four back to Minacious Isle, Lewod opened the dollhouse door within seconds. Domain soon back at the entrance, Lewod stepped towards the left. Another ice crystal puzzle in front of them with seven stars, they arranged the crystals into a seven point star. Puzzle being the correct answer, a door had opened.

Walking through another hallway, another group of stuffed animals had been in the corridor, but something had changed upon the lion plushie. Residing upon the lion's stuffed animal's head had been a large princess crown, and covering the body had been a pink dress that looked like the gown a princess would wear to a ball. Lion stuffed animal looking ready to speak, the chimera crouched down, but a pulse hit his head made him fall to the floor. Human rear on the corridor floor, the early adult attempted to regain focus.

"She's finally letting me wear dresses! I'm so happy!" the little lion princess plushie cheered.

Domain being silent for awhile, the corridor had soon come to an end. Hallway being much shorter than the others, another pulse had shot through the hyena's head. The room the hallway had lead to, why did it look like the Natlan medical ward, but distorted? Another sight had soon perturbed the young soldier.

Standing within the distorted medical ward had been the lion princess plushie, but the princess had two valets. Jackal plushie with a windup key, and rabbit plushie with green eyes, the hyena could feel his head spin. The rabbit stuffed animal, why had its eyes looked like Hase's? Had he been imagining things? Dizziness pushing forward, the soldier leaned against the domain wall.

The rabbit plushie introducing the lion plushie as Lewod, the sound of buzzing drowned out the talking. His body, why had it been fighting him like this? He had not used the delusion at all within the domain, for the day. Slapping his inhuman eardrums, hearing had soon returned to him. Jackal plushie's wind key spinning and turning, the soldier listened to the conversation.

"Really? You'll teach me how to sound like a woman?" the jackal plushie asked. Its voice sounded roughly familiar from time long passed. "Thank you!"

Scene continuing to play out for awhile, the medical ward had soon transformed into another area. Multiple plushies saying they were heading to the Haar Islands, a bridge leading to a black dragon appeared. Sibling party of three soon far ahead of him, the soldier staggered forward. Feeling as though he could barely walk anymore, the hyena dragged his feet about. But such clear path had not lasted for long.

Plushie monsters soon swiping their swords, an explosion of delusional electricity filled the hyena. Barrage of enemies exploding, the stuffed animal monsters had been no more. Feeling his body sway forward, the domain path and his body had met. Blackness soon overtaking him, he could feel his consciousness begin to slip away.

Delusions drained energy, indeed.

***

Witnessing their cousin fall over, Lewod had run to their cousin's side. The purple orb on his belt, had it been one of the Fatui's various tools? Kid look as a pale as a ghost, carrying him out of the domain was the only option. Waking him up now in such of state had to have been far too dangerous.

"Pira, he isn't conscious!" Lewod shouted. "Could you carry him?"

Carrying his cousin on his back, the party of two returned to the black dragon. Dragon soaring to the sky, the Minacious Isle had soon been surrounding them again. Seeing the island change ever so slightly to look like a big dollhouse castle, Lewod turned to Pira again.

"Come on, let's bring him back to bed," Lewod said sternly. "And I'll go get my doctor friend!"

Everyone agreeing, the travel back to the castle had begun. Nathair speeding the boat through the water as fast as possible, the soldier had been placed in a bed. Removing the magical map from his pants pocket, the next step had been ready.

Being alerted by Loba's sister that she would come in her place, the nearly identical twin teleported back to Twinning Isle with them. But what she had said was an eerie, chilling tale. The purple orb had been a Delusion, and the orb was affecting his heart. Lewod knew one thing, and one thing for certain.

Delusions were vicious tools of evil.

***

Upon coming to the next morning, an unusual face had appeared in his low energy vision. Glasses on, the hyena looked up, but he could feel the fuzz begin to eat him away as the seconds raged onward. Had his eyes been deceiving him, or had Aega been standing by his bedside in proper medical attire? He had to be seeing things, surely.

"Lewod brought me here and told me everything," Aega said voice stern. "Lift up your shirt. I need to listen to your heart. I'll try to be quick."

Having no energy to argue, the soldier lifted his shirt up. Feeling a cold metal heart piece hit his sternum, the soldier flinched. But, he knew he had to deal with it. Heart instrument on his chest for awhile, the hyena could feel his mind slip away.

Heart instrument soon removed, the look on Aega's face sent a chill down his spine. Was she going to tell him he needed to rest? He did not having time for such a thing. One week of the project remaining, he knew he had to keep working, the choice was not his. Feeling no amount of energy to speak, the chimera gave sharp eye contact to the jackal chimera. Would this work? He was running out of time.

Seeing the look on Siorc's face, Aega cracked her knuckles in defiance. Was he trying to use his eyes to convince her to let him go back to work? What a stubborn fool Siorc could be. With such a fast heart rate, returning to work was not happening. She had to tell him how it was, exactly.

"You realize that Delusion made your heart unstable, right?" Aega asked, words stern. "So, no, you can't go back to work yet. And I told everyone in the castle to not let you leave until I can stabilize you."

Confined to the bed prison the chimera's eyes fluttered closed. Feeling too tired to say anything back, the world of sleep pushed the chimera into a bottomless pit. Perhaps, just maybe, when he woke up next, everything would have been taken care of.

An astronomically incorrect assumption on his part.

Waking up the next morning was a sight to behold. Lewod by his bedside, their hands had been in his own. Why had they pulled their hands close to his? Feeling too much in a daze to comprehend anything, the barely there chimera listened in silence.

"Aega said she had to get a machine to go shock your heart back into the correct rhythm," Lewod explained.

Hearing the word machine, the soldier could feel his body begin to shake. Another machine was going to invade his body again? Dazed world muddying his thoughts, the hyena had accidentally let out a yelp. As such had been happening, another person had flocked into the room. Pira soon by the bedside with a strange soup, the hyena's yelps continued. Feeling static eat him every step of the way, nothing anymore registered.

"You need to calm down," Pira said. But the words were mud. "Eat this."

Everything looking like fuzz and static, the chimera had no awareness of the world around him. Not registering Pira had been feeding him in the conscious world, drowsiness had soon filled the static and fuzz. Everything gone, a drug induced sleep took the man away.

Waking up yet another day later, slight discomfort graced his body. Seeing Lewod by his bedside, the soldier raised from the covers. Lewod walking over to him, the hyena stared into their eyes. What more could they possibly have to say to him? How much longer did they plan to keep him in bed prison? Lewod looking ready to speak, the chimera let out an aggravated grunt. Time was ticking, he needed to return to work, or Her Majesty would let him have it.

"Aega used a machine to help you get better," Lewod said quietly. "She'll be back later to check up on you."

Seeming as though he would still be trapped in the bed prison, the chimera rose from the bed. He had no time for such games anymore. But his attempt to leave his prison had been halted in seconds. Placed back on the pillow, the early adult growled at Lewod like a lion. Absolutely ridiculous. This game had to end now.

"Woah, hey! I didn't say you could get up!" Lewod shouted, hands in front of their chest. "You still need to rest! Why don't I read you a story while you're awake?"

Coming back with a book after about a minute, the chimera rolled his eyes to the ceiling. What was he, a child? He was nineteen years too old to be getting read to. But, it had already been too late. Lewod had been reading. Book sounding quite similar to the raven castle he had currently been residing in temporarily, a sharp wave of tiredness took over the chimera. He supposed being read a story wasn't so bad after all.

Another day passing, Aega had been by his bedside once again. Being told by her he had been stable enough to return to work, the hyena rose from the bed prison almost immediately. But an alert had blown a wind current through his chest. Aega saying to keep the delusion away from him at all times, Lewod and Pira took the sinister purple orb away from him. He supposed such was for the best, for now.

Nathair having the boat in xer possession to head to a client off in Teyvat, leaving the Twinning Isle was currently impossible. Aega soon leaving, resuming work had to come of him now. Having nowhere else to go, he supposed he could record the rest of the castle areas that he could have possibly missed.

Interacting with more of the raven statues, something of major abnormalcy had occurred. The raven statues had the ability to talk. Entire Haar Islands bending and changing, he supposed hearing statues talking was no longer something out of the realm of possibility. Recording the phenomenon in the notebook, the hyena kept observing any other parts of Twinning Isle he might have missed. Feeling like he had gotten everything out of the way, the hyena returned to the abode that would soon no longer be his temporary room.

Seeing the sky flash red when he woke up the next morning, the soldier had started to wonder. Was there anything he could have missed on the other three named isles? One more check of the isles never hurt anything. Boat being accessible to him again, Lewod an Pira took him to the Pudding Isle for the day.

Pudding Isle looking almost entirely different than the last time he had been there, the hyena opened up his notebook. Recording everything he could that was different, the soldier looked around. But, something alarming had been within his proximity.

Fatui stumbling around in delirium talking about photos, the soldier turned around. Whatever the other Fatui had a problem with currently was no issue of his. But, he supposed he could spill the details in the notebook about the Fatui acting odd throughout the month. Details logged, the early adult returned to the castle.

Next day flying his way almost in an instant, the soldier was ready. Figuring the Broken Isle had experienced some changes as well, another boat cruise over had made its rounds known in the water. Isle looking almost nothing alike from the first or second time he had been there, the hyena recorded every single change he could find.

Finding more seashells as well containing messages left by dazed Fatui, the hyena recorded the messages into the travel log. Six seashell messages written in the notebook, the chimera decided to return to the castle for the day. Everything had almost been done. One more documentation remained.

Next morning soon flying by, the hyena headed to Minacious Isle. Landscape looking almost like a different continent, the hyena wrote everything down into the notebook. Island looking like a dollhouse castle, the hyena had finally come to a conclusion. The phenomenons on the island had been mirages materialized by Vision Bearer's dreams. Not having a mirage to himself, such had been the only conclusion that made sense. Writing his hypothesis into the notebook, the hyena walked around the isle one final time.

Finding more seashells projecting images in them, the chimera wrote what the seashell had been saying in the Echoing Conches section of his travel log. Not finding anymore seashells, the soldier returned to the castle for the evening. Opening his proxy orb into map form, the early adult checked the bottom hand corner of the Haar Islands map. Map saying time remaining: 1 day, a tired sigh escaped his partially human throat. The project could finally come to an end.

Final day upon him, the group of three siblings entered his room. Figuring he would need help sorting through his notes, a four member review had made rounds in the mirage islands. Double and triple checking if his notes were coherent enough, corrections had been made here and there. Hours of fixing small mistakes roaring about, the conclusion had been reached.

"Everything should be alright now, kiddo," Pira said. He placed his hand on his left shoulder. "Why don't you relax on the beach before you leave?"

Not having anything else to record, the hyena simply nodded. Nameless isle he had been dropped off on soon arrived, the hyena stepped onto the beach. Lewod in a pretty bikini, they had been sunbathing in complete bliss. Nathair sunbathing as well in a black summer gown, and Pira in nothing but a small jacket, his chest had been on private display.

Beach picnic happening after awhile, the group of four chowed down. Lunch acting as a sendoff, Siorc could not help but smile. The sibling trio had been so kind to him throughout the month. One day, if he were to ever return to to the island, he would help the in return, guaranteed.

As the lunch continued, Siorc could feel a disturbance on the beach. Had he been hearing a voice off in the sky? The chimera could not help but think someone had been trying to communicate with him for the entire day. Turning his head up to the sky, a voice had soon echoed on the beach wind.

"Your dreams, all of them showed your hardships," the voice on the wind said. "And all of you were able to overcome them together, even with a stranger."

Everyone else hearing the voice in the sky, the sibling trio soon turned their head to the sky. Where had the voice come from? It was almost as if a little bird had been talking to them through one of the final mirages that remained active. The voice then continued.

"Even though the stranger doesn't have a vision, he still learned a thing or two, didn't he?" the voice on the wind said. "Your dreams, they all showed how far you've come in life. Keep going together." Voice giggling and soon saying goodbye, no more disturbances remained.

Meal finished, the group of four soon returned to the castle. Winter uniform given back to him, the hyena mouthed a thank you to the group of three siblings. Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map in hand, the soldier highlighted the waypoint back to the barracks. Fast travel returning him Snezhnaya within seconds, a windchill hit his partially human spine. He had not missed the winter world of the permafrost north, even a bit.

Steel walled room soon upon him, a note had appeared on his door. Being told to return the notebook to Her Majesty in the morning, the hyena placed everything back to where it had been a month prior. Hairpins, earrings, and uniform removed, the soldier slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Sleep taking him away as soon as his head hit the pillow, everything had begun to return to normal.

Notebook in hand the next morning, the hyena walked to the palace with due diligence. Haar Islands Travel Notes placed in the Cryo Archon's hands, a small smirk had appeared on her face. Did she have something to say to him? He knew he could not ignore the Tsaritsa's word.

"Expect something 'special' soon, my lovely chimera," Her Majesty said, her tone was cold. "Now, leave my sight."

Being told to leave the palace, the hyena returned to the military barracks. Words about something special happening soon, the chimera could not help but feel a sinister aura in Her Majesty's words. What could the something special have been? Whatever it was, it could not have been a good thing.

Walking around in a circle in the steel walled room, a sea of thoughts had crashed at bay within the early adult's partially human mind. Feeling time had finally begun moving again, the soldier had wondered. Just how many days had truly passed since the punishment had occurred? Time having felt as though it had been looping until only recently, keeping track of all the time lost was out of his reach.

Feeling a wave of tiredness soon hit him, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. World of tormented dreams about to call him back in for the evening, one final thought played on repeat within his currently fading brain.

The momentary amount of days would now come to an end, surely.

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If anyone actually bothered to read this one, thank you for reading until the end of this novella.