[Other Fanfic] Silence is Purple: Fontaine is Drowning

[Palamon]

20. Research Institute Phantom Thief 2: Fleeting Towers

"Again, Your Majesty? I don't
Get it, really.
Am I to believe she really needs these things
I am being told to steal?
No. She does not.


Your Majesty, why?
Obviously, there's far more ethical ways. This is
Unnecessary. I'd
Rather not do this, why


Make me take
All these from the
Jackal quartet?
Every single one of them works hard,
So please rescind
This order,
You're truly pushing it.


Why do this?
How can
You not think of whom I might be hurting? Ah, who am I kidding? She


Does not care.
Oh, well, it looks like


I don't have a choice.


Here's to another day of thievery,
Another day of being the worst
Villain in the history of
Everything. I don't have


The capabilities
Of a real phantom thief.


So, please stop sending me on
These missions, I am begging.
Everything you want me to steal has
Absolutely nothing special,
Let this go.


This needs to
Halt, it has to stop.
Each and every machine and
Robot, the quartet put
Everything into them.


I don't feel right doing this,
So, make this the last time.


For, I will not doing this
At all, willingly.
Really, this will only


Make Fatui look bad.
Open your eyes, and
Realize. If I am
Ever seen by the other researchers,


Everything will break,
This won't go well,
How can't she see that?
I truly don't understand.
Can't get
Anywhere behind this.
Let this be the last time.


Will it be?
Absolutely not,
Yes, there will be
Some more times.


Of all the orders,
For this one to come back, I am fuming. But, I


Guess I am not allowed that
Opinion. Right,
I am the loyal and obedient soldier.
No anger allowed.
Get it out of my system


And just accept reality.
Because I cannot disobey.
Obedience is key, that is the
Ultimate key
To survival.


Survival is priority in this cold breeze.
Oh, boy, Your
Majesty, just what am I stealing this time? I am so
Eager to commit crimes!


That might
Have been a little sarcastic.
I need to dial it down,
Need to throw such thoughts away.
Get over my feeling of discontent.
Soon, it probably


Will not matter,
Everything I feel is
Liquid waste.
Liquid garbage.


Opinions are forbidden,
Her Majesty's orders must not be questioned.


Well, I am used to it,
Everything is all the same, I am
Liquid trash,
Liquid garbage. A


Tool, a pawn
On the chessboard, a piece
On the board. Don't


Let myself get out of control,
And do as I am
Told. That is key.
Even if I don't agree.


Nothing I think matters,
Obedience is key. I am a
White rook, just a movable piece. It's all I'll ever be in this army."


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of torment within the early adult's life. The loop would drop down a gigantic hammer with relentless force, destroying everything in its path. Such pattern had no end in sight, always returning to the beginning when day reverses back to late evening. The night before him was no different as well.


Before him had been a field of dandelions, and lilacs. But, something had been off about the flowering plants. Blood tripping from the stems, a wave of heavy unease flowed through the soldier. Lilacs looking to wilt at any given moment, a wave of fear flowed through the soldier. Just what was wrong with the dream world today?


Seating himself beside the flowers, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was something bad about to happen within his subconscious mind? He knew that everything before him had already felt quite off. Knowing that at any given moment, he would burst into flames, devoured the soldier.


Everything had begun to get worse than imagined.


Dendrobiums beginning to grow in spades, the soldier gazed at the dream world around him. World around him feeling quite familiar, the soldier had come to an immediate conclusion: he had been in a battlefield in Mondstadt. Corpses of multiple Hilichurls surrounding him, another realization had washed over him.


The dream world, had it taken him to the Thousand Wind Temple in Monstadt? But, such thoughts were immediately cut short as a wretched visitor stepped up to the plate. Spiky blue haired mask man coming towards him, the early adult grit his dream teeth hard enough to break them.


The malpracticing malicious doctor was here.


Medical tools seated within the heinous harbinger's hands, the early adult attempted with all his might to run away from the area. But, such had been an impossibility to be had, for sure. Entire partially human body except his hands glued down to the ground, the early adult could not help but ponder. Had he been awake right now?


Pinching himself, absolutely no pain resounded within the soldier. Nothingness echoing, doom loomed over the hyena. He had been dreaming. There was no escape. Wretched doctor coming closer with every given dream second, the early adult's dream palms shook with a fervor.


"It's time for surgery!" the mad malpracticing doctor exclaimed. In his gloves resided medical tools.


Akademiya exile coming closer at a snail's pace, the early adult's palms continued to shake. Surgical tools spinning about, the early adult surrendered himself. It was already over. He was about to become organ spaghetti. Gap closing between the two soon closed, the line soon repeated itself.


Spinning tool of doom hovering over the soldier's stomach, the metal and he had soon become one with one another. Circular metallic scalpel carving deep, the early adult let out a scream that did not penetrate into reality. Dream surgery continuing for minutes on end, glass shattered into pieces.


As red pools of liquid fell from the soldier's body, the Dendrobiums sucked up the crimson lake for minutes on end. Flowers only getting brighter as more blood spilled its indigestible tea, the hyena had begun to shake. Why did he have to dream up the horrific Harbinger, of all people? But, such had not been the end of the subconscious suffering.


Sea of blue flames dropping itself from the sky, the hyena's dream eyes opened wide. Malicious doctor nowhere to be seen as if he had never been there, a wave of defeat had flown above the chimera. It was all over. He was done. Finished, about to be cooked into edible meat at any given second.


Blue fires soon taking the soldier over, the chimera had begun to fall backwards. Flames only burning brighter as he had become one with the dream ground, a simulated sense of pain took the hyena away. As the hyena's death within the subconscious world sped itself up, one last thought took the early adult away.


Memories are terrifying.


***


"Vile villains, I won't stand for this!
Every day lately, there's been something
Rancid has happened!
Yet another day of these bounties, and


Looks like this one
Is taking advantage of the recent hysteria!
Taking advantage of the panic and mysteria!
This cannot stand, I Robin will not
Let this go undealt with!
Every day, our bounties are full of


Mysterious requests!
And I bet it's those conniving gazelles! I
Know it's them!
Even though, I personally blame that Fatui!
So, whomever did it, just you wait, justice


Shall come for you!
Everyone who is involved,
Now's your time to confess!
So, open up about your crimes!
Either now, or I'll


Adamantly pursue you!
Now's the time, or
You shall be
My next bounty! Come
On, open up to your crimes! I,
Robin, will show no mercy.
Each and every one of you shall be brought to


Justice! I will
Unleash my arrows upon you,
So fess up, don't
Try to hide, or I


Won't go easy!
How would you like to see my
Absolute final move?
The ultimate justice hammer!


I won't let you get away,
So, fess up, I'm waiting. Announce your


Guiltiness. The entire nation is listening!
Open your mouths, fiends!
It's time to be put away.
No matter what, this time I will
Get them, have them


Open up, announce their
Nefarious crimes!


Justice will prevail!
Unleash the counter
Strategy!
This time, Raven and
I will get the
Criminals once and for all
Even if I have to sacrifice my reputation.


We shall win, and
I will bathe in heroism!
Listen up, criminals, you won't
Live to perform another


Crime! So, go
On, open up about your crimes!
May a swift and guilty trial put you away for
Eternity! The


Final countdown is upon us.
Our time has come to square off!
Raven, we shall catch them this time!


Yes, this time for sure!
On this day, we will get the
Uncouth monsters, these


Criminals aplenty! I,
Robin, pledge to Focalors,
I will be catching all these
Malicious miscreants!
I will be catching these
Nefarious villains!
All of them, one after another!
Literally, none
Shall remain in Fontaine!"


Four days had passed since the hyena, rat and bobcat chimeras had collected meka parts in Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Diplomatic affairs of nothing engulfing the ninety-six hours, mudaneness had bubbled itself into overdrive, taking the front seat at the wheel.


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, Siorc snapped himself out of it. There was no time to allow himself to let fear turn the pirate ship wheel; he had to get ready now. Pushing his thoughts away, the early adult rose from the rock hard bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena placed his uniform over his layered shirts, the early adult stared at the steel walls. The wretched Doctor, if he sees him again, he will crush him, burn him, give him the medicine he deserves. Spark popping off in his brain as he thought such, the young soldier repeated such phrases within his fading human brain.


He would crush him, burn him, give him the medicine he deserves. Payback delivered in full.


But, the soldier snapped himself out of thinking such, rapidly shaking his head back and forth. What in the world was he thinking? He didn't stand a chance against the second of eleven harbingers. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult removed such thoughts from deep within.


Removing the cover off his hairpin and earring box, the hyena clicked the weaponized jewelry and accessories into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, a wave of calmness pulsated through him. Thoughts pooling back into work, the early adult reached for the yellow-green orb.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the early adult gazed at it, for a moment. The yellow-green orb, why did it give him the power to bring flowers to life to fight alongside him? But, the early adult quickly discarded such thoughts into the trash bin. Such inquiry had no answer. The gods would never let down their secrets within the mortal plane.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the young soldier turned his attention towards the barricaded window, for a moment. Just what could possibly be waiting for him today? He knew, whatever order were about to grace his inhuman eardrums, it was not about to be a good thing.


Continuing to gaze at the window, doom loomed over the soldier. He could not help but feel something terrible was about to await him today wherever he were to end up doing work today. The abyssal gazelles, they were up to something, guaranteed. He needed to prepare himself for anything, and everything.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march on with a heavy stomp, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be performing a heist once again." He paused for a moment before continuing. "As well as dealing with various problems around Fontaine to stay within the good graces of the Hydro Archon." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Keeping the other Archons on the Fatui's side would make Her Majesty's goals be reached faster.


Siorc jumped five steps back upon hearing he would be performing another heist today. Stay in the good graces of the Hydro Archon? There was no way that would be possible if he was going on yet another phantom thief mission. Absolutely impossible, no way, there was no chance.


The early adult stared off into space. How would any of what he's about to do help him stay on Focalor's good side? There was no way that would be possible, in the slightest. Dealing with unstated problems in the Hydro Nation of Justice? There was no way such would ever be enough to make her forget he was a member of the Fatui.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be performing a heist and cleaning up problems in Fontaine!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "We don't have time for this! Get in gear!"


The early adult flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock right now. There was absolutely no time to be thinking about other things. Work mode switch flipping on inside him, every other thought perished outside in the snow. Right, no more dawdling. It was time to go.


"Yes, sir," the chimera responded autonomously. Arm out in front of him, he waited for the gripping prison to take him away.


"Good. We're leaving, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as relentless as it had usually been, the soldier closed his eyes as the escort towards Fontaine soon began.


Stay in the good graces of the Archon? Yeah, right.


***


"There is definitely something off
Here, in Fontaine.
I cannot get this feeling to go away. I cannot
Shake it off. No, I


Cannot. Something is wrong,
And this feeling is devouring me.
Nothing is making sense, this feeling.
No, I am just
Overly nervous. Right, it's
The nerves from steeling.


Breathe, I need to breathe.
Everything is fine,


Really. I am overthinking. Yes, I am
Especially overthinking. There is
Absolutely nothing wrong here. I am
Letting my fears take over.


I am letting everything get to me.


How can I allow myself to let
All these fears win?
Vacuum them away with a wind current.
Everything is fine. I am


Taking my feelings
Of doom too seriously.


Breathe, breathe.
Everything is fine.


Don't let my fears
Rear their ugly heads.
Everything is fine.
And I have to shake this all away.
My feelings do not matter.
I have a job to do. Brain, you must
Not natter. I have to
Get to work


Right this
Instant. No more letting my fears
Get the better of me.
Here's to another day of quelling
The enemies. Here is to the


Next round of heisting.
Obstruct these feelings,
Wilt them away. Focus on working."


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the early adult could not help but feel the heavy atmosphere in the air. Was it just his imagination, or did something feel very off? But, the hyena's thoughts were cut off almost immediately as he had been dragged down the mountain.


Boat summoned, like always, the hyena gazed at the waterbed in front of him for a brief moment. Ocean leading up to the harbor looking unclean, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had something been wrong with Fontaine? But, such thoughts were pushed away as the vessel of human movement cruised forward.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor before he could even process it, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. How had he already arrived at the next location? Agent dragging him off towards the stairs, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. The abyssal gazelles, could they be hiding somewhere?


Agent informing him once again for what felt like the quintillionth time that he was not allowed to teleport around Fontaine whatsoever, the hyena held back the urge to bite the hand that fed him. No teleporting allowed this, no teleporting allowed that, blah, blah. But, the early adult popped such mockery going on within his fading human brain. If the Agent heard his thoughts, he would be smited, for sure.


Satchel soon plopped upon his backside, a list of instructions had been handed off to the hyena. But, as he had been handed the sheet of paper, words of warning had come the chimera's way. Subordinate soon leaving, the early adult titled his head. What was with the sudden caution hitting the wind?


Ascending the staircase and taking the glass lift, as usual, the soldier could feel a chill drop down his spine. Not a single soul around the harbor, not even beside the stairs, a feeling of doom nibbled on the soldier's ear. Where was everyone today? But, such feelings of unease only continued to overlap as the station approached.


Silence even more apparent as he pressed the button on the sign, the early adult gazed at everything around him. The Romaritime Harbor, why was it deserted this time? Water just as unclean in the area as it was near the desert, the chimera could not help but wonder, had there been an acid rain storm since he had been away?


Aquabus arriving after a short while, a look of surprise appeared on the Melusine's face. Aeval stating most of the Fontaine citizens are hiding in their homes today, the early adult's heart skipped two beats. Why was everyone shutting themselves behind closed doors? Just what was going on?


Knowing he had to press on, no matter what, the soldier seated himself upon the aquabus. Vessel of automatic power cruising forward, the early adult removed the paper instructions from his back pocket, gazing at them in silence, the hyena scratched his head at the words in front of him.


First set of instructions informing him he would need to head off towards the Liffey Region before performing a heist in a tower nearby, the soldier quadruple checked the words in front of him. Was he reading this right? He had to go off to a tower near Mount Esus East? That would be impossible, for sure. There was no way he could ever hope to pull off such a feat.


Arriving at the capital city of Fontaine before he knew it, words of caution had been thrown the hyena's way. Bowing a thank you, the chimera disembarked from the vehicle. Knowing it was time to head out towards Mount Esus, the soldier prepared himself to head off towards the glass lift inside the Aquabus information station.


But, as the soldier had begun to walk upon the northern path, silence engulfed the entire area. Not a single citizen on the streets, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. People were cooping themselves up in their homes, indeed. Guards the only members of the population around, everything cracked like glass.


Knowing he had to proceed with caution when reaching the mountains, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Would the hawk and falcon chimeras be present in the area today? He knew, if they were, he would be arrowed down almost immediately. There was no avoiding such. It was about to happen.


As the early adult kept walking through the deserted streets, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had something bad happened in Fontaine while he was gone? He could not help but feel something terrible had been unleashed upon the nation while he had been off doing mundane jobs of nothing.


Adventurer's Guild without its receptionist, as well, the hyena darted his eyes off towards the side. Even the association for adventurers was not around? What a terrible sign of things to come, for sure. But, the hyena pressed onward. There was no time to think about such things.


Continuing to move right along upon the northwestern path, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Just what could have possibly happened? The citizens of Fontaine, were they scared of slightly dirty waters? Perhaps, just maybe, the famed Hydro Dragon had fallen ill.


But, such thoughts were cut short as a frightening sight before him burned into the soldier's mismatched pupils. Spotting the Head of Security and Surveillance Patrol, the Iudex and Melusine discussing crime involving water poisoning, the chimera's heart skipped a beat. What did he just hear? He knew he had to forget such. Listening to other people's conversations was rude. But, eyes were soon on him.


"You, over there, have you seen anyone suspicious?" the head of security patrol asked.


Hearing such question, the hyena's mind jumped elsewhere, in an instant. The waters, if they were poisoned, would the Melusines who lived underwater truly be alright? The sea lion pranksters, and penguins in the trenches, wouldn't such toxins bring harm to them? He knew he needed to inquire about such.


Giving the head of security patrol a head shake, the early adult took a long deep breath. Clapping his hands together like a sea lion, spelling out the word penguin with his fingers, and moving his hands as if they were waves upon the ocean, the hyena could feel his cheeks flush. Why was he making such a huge production about this?


"The ocean? Fear not, they are filtering themselves out," the Iudex responded to his wordless communication. "The Melusines and the underwater dwellers will be alright."


Hearing the Iudex's words, a wave of relief flowed through the chimera. The oceans around Fontaine were able to filter out the noxious materials? Such was good news to hear, indeed. Group of two letting him pass through, the early adult kept moving onwards towards the Aquabus information station.


Moving towards the southern streets, a small wave of disdain flowed through the hyena. Whoever had laid poison upon the waters of Fontaine was a vile criminal. If he were to cross paths with them, he would bring them down multiple pegs before they could cause any more damage.


As the Aquabus Information station drew closer with every step, the chimera turned his attention towards the fountain from afar. The waters within the flowing falls, had they been poisoned, too? But, the early adult kept on moving. There was no time to investigate. He had to lave for the Liffey Region right away.


Pushing past the fountain, the soldier took a long deep breath. The mountains, he knew, as soon as he were to reach there, he would be in bird chimera territory. Stepping foot into the building, not a single sound stirred within the information station. Stepping towards the glass lift, the chimera braced himself.


But, such moments of silence were soon shot with a sniper rifle. Box's doors opening, a person he did not wish to see stepped out of the machine. Earl removing himself from the elevator, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. What was he doing here? Wasn't he supposed to be hiding in his home like the rest of the citizens in Fontaine? Eyes soon on him, the chimera held back the urge to groan. An annoyance was about to bite his ear off.


Seeing Siorc the moment he stepped off the elevator, waves of caution flowed through him. Siorc had been in Fontaine today? He needed to take him back home right away. It was not safe here. There was too much danger around the region. It was best to escort him to the boutique right away.


"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Fontaine is too dangerous right now! Let me take you home so I can keep you safe!"


The early adult's eyebrows twitched. Why did Earl always have to insist on taking him to his home? He was not about to let himself get strayed from the path. No way. He had already been informed on the dangers around. He had work to do. Perhaps, just maybe, telling him such would get him off his back.


"I am working, sir," Siorc responded, voice cold. "I cannot go with you."


Hearing Siorc say he had work, alarm bells had begun to ring. He was working around Fontaine? Where was he heading today? If it were someone dangerous It was best to go with him if it were a place of heavy danger. It was time to poke his nose in, even if it wasn't wanted.


"Where are you heading?" Earl asked, inquisitive. "I'll go with you!"


The early adult flinched. Why did Earl always have to poke his nose in? Where he was headed was absolutely nothing was his business. They were not friends, in any capacity. He needed to remove all the questions he had and back off. But, he knew if he said such, more annoyances would come his way. Taking a deep breath, he let the answer throw itself out the window.


"I am heading to the Liffey Region, sir," the chimera answered with reluctance. But, an immediate answer had come his way.


"The Liffey Region?" Earl asked. "Robin and Raven are there! I'll should go with you!"


Shaking his head, the soldier stepped upon the glass lift. Earl saying he will just let him go, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. Had he finally realized he wanted no business with him today? Such was a miracle if it were the truth. Penguin chimera exiting the area, the chimera pressed the button labelled four upon the side of the glass box.


Soon reaching the fourth floor of the city, the early adult cracked his knuckles. It was time to proceed with as much caution as he could possibly muster. No one bustling about in the cities beside a Melusine guard, the chimera pressed onward. Moving towards the city outskirts, the hyena kept himself on high alert.


Outside of the city as silent as the areas within, the early adult observed the area. What other dangers could possibly be lurking about beyond these walls? He supposed he was about to find out. Stepping on the final glass lift of the hour, warnings tingled within him.


As the glass box moved, the early adult checked his instructions one last time, for the moment. Nothing listed other than to clean up the Liffey Region, the hyena sighed. Why were his notes vague, as usual? But, he supposed he was used to it by now. Hearing the door open, the young soldier exited the machine of many technological marvels.


But, immediately upon stepping foot into the open wilderness, various thorny obstacles covered up the entire area. Such, however, had not been the only oddity. Multiple meka soldiers adorning his uniform albeit in a metallic grey color, a series of questions raced through the chimera's mind.


Robotic enemies walking around in a circle around the vines, the early adult rose an eyebrow. What were these mekas doing here? Why did they have a uniform like his? Were they newly employed Fatui? He was not reaching any sort of understanding whatsoever. Possible enemies patrolling about, he knew he had no choice but to battle.


Sifting through his satchel for a moment, the early adult came across a rather peculiar claymore. Large, brown greatsword adorning multiple stickers of Melusine, the hyena tilted his head. Where had this weapon come from? There was no way it was from Her Majesty directly.


Moving towards the vines, the soldier had begun pruning. Thorns attempting with all their might to strike him as he chopped away, the hyena kept himself on guard. Did the obstacles have a mind of their own? If they were alive, he would be caught up in a fight any second now.


Mekas moving of towards the other side of the grass, the soldier kept the cuts going. Vines sheered away one after another, the hyena swore that the world's nature grew back as quickly as it had been removed. Seeing such, the hyena huffed a breath. Were these obstacles immortal? How irksome.


Placing his claymore beside him, the early adult had begun to spin around like a battle top in another universe. Vines biting the dust as his circular motion continued onward for minutes on end, the chimera let out a grunt. Would this finally prune the current obstacles once and for all?


Obstacles regrowing for the second time, the soldier could feel himself shrink. What was he doing wrong that would not let him prune the vines? Did he need to be infused with the pneumaousia system? He supposed it was best to look around for an energy block.


Spotting an ousia block in the corner upon a platform, the early adult dashed back towards the area. Energy swirling around him, the hyena ran back towards the growing vines once more. Slashing through the obstacles as purple light engulfed them, a eureka moment cemented itself into place.


Running back and forth towards the block of energy, the vines dissipated into nothingness. Obstacles cleared out for the time being, robot eyes were on the soldier. Mekas running towards him, hips out and about, the early adult placed himself in a fighting stance. The battle was on, it was go time.


Mekas dancing about as if they were putting on a performance in front of hundreds of people, the early adult shook his head. These robots were supposed to be like him? Whoever had made them had done a terrible job of replicating his being. Letting his claymore loose, the greatsword tipped the scales.


First set of robots falling to the ground and becoming spare parts after about twenty slashes, the soldier kept the momentum going. Army reduced from six to two, the early adult kept himself focused. The crowd was lessening, soon, he could move forward towards his destination.


Final group of mekas dropping down grassy projectiles, the early adult rose an eyebrow. Was that supposed to be some sort of replication of his attacks? If such were the case, it was nothing like his combat whatsoever. These monsters were phony robotic replicas of him.


Final two enemies in the area defeated, the hyena turned his attention towards the sky. Knowing the closer he got towards the bird's territory, the early adult knew he had to prepare himself for any violence that would be dealt to him. Strolling along the path, the rest of the fights to come took shape.


Vines blocking the path again as the soldier crossed towards the northeast, the early adult let out a sigh. Collecting a block of ousia energy once again, the pruning had come back from the dead. Energy bathing itself deep, the thorny entanglements wilted as their extermination was finalized.


But, such moments of easy fights quickly came to a close. Thorns spreading themselves at far and wide, the vined weapons had gone on a rampage. Spikey weapons twirling upwards as the soldier approached, the prickles sunk into the hyena's arms like they were vampire teeth.


Onslaught continuing, the early adult let out a scream. These plants, did they have a mind of their own? If such were the case, there was no way he would ever be able to compete with that in any way. Thrusting them off, the plants versus hyena kicked into overdrive.


Obstacles kicked to the curb one after another, the beach had been nearing at breakneck speed. Prickly bushes of doom standing in his way, the chimera let out another sigh. What was he looking at, a porcupine tree? How peculiar. He could not help but feel something about what he was looking at had been manufactured.


Attempting with all his might to hack away at such roadblock, his claymore and the prickly leaves shook hands with one another. But, as he was doing so, nothing of any sort had been vanquished. Leaves growing back as if there was an invisible respawn button, the hyena's eyebrows twitched.


Weapon doing absolutely nothing to the inanimate enemy in front of him, the soldier kept attempting to prune the object before him. But, such moment never came. Regrowth coming back to haunt him after a few seconds, the cuts kept going for minutes on end.


But, such attempts were futile. Bush returning back to its original form as quickly as it had been reduced to nothing, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Was this obstacle impervious to the strike of a blade? Perhaps, just maybe, the energy blocks in the area would solve the problem.


Grabbing ahold of a block of pneuma energy, the soldier let out a scream as he thrusted away at the bush before him. Obstacle of thorns wilting into nothing, the chimera moved forward off towards the beach. But, as he stepped upon the sediment, a familiar sound penetrated through the area.


Hearing the sound of an arrow shooting on the wind, the hyena gulped. The hawk and falcon chimeras, they were here. Any second now, and he would be their next target. Robots off in the corner getting arrowed into the mechanical knee, the early adult backed four steps away. But, such had been three steps too many.


Golden eyes on him from up above, an arrow soon came the chimera's way. Jumping out of the way, the soldier crossed his arms across his waist. Did the hawk always have to give him such a violent greeting? He needed to focus on his bounties in front of him instead of turning him into the next target.


"How dare you send your robot minions out here, Fatui!" Robin shouted, heroism evident in his voice.


Hearing such accusation coming his way, the hyena lowered his eyes into a glare. Was the hawk chimera being serious right now, accusing him of being responsible for creating mechanical life forms? He was quite incorrect. Make a mechanical being that bore his resemblance? He would never, even if he knew how to craft robotics.


"I don't know, hon," Raven chimed in. "He looks confused."


"He's just trying to look innocent, so he can take you away!" Robin responded, but Raven shook his head.


"He's not here to take me away, hon," Raven replied. "I know who is the perpetrator of this crime. Call a truce?"


"Fine! But only for today!" Robin chirped. "Go on through, Fatui!" As he said such, his cheeks turned pink. He then pointing his index finger the villain's way. "But, if I see you committing any sort of crime, I won't hesitate but to call this temporary truce off! Besides, beyond this point, something worse awaits you. Have fun dealing with it, vagrant!"


Robin announcing a temporary peace treaty, the early adult had begun to head north. Knowing he had to head for the bridge, the soldier sped up his walking speed. But, as he kept on going, the hawk's words rung in his head. What could be the worse thing that could possibly be awaiting him? He supposed he was about to find out.


But, as the early adult readied to leave the area north of the court behind, absolutely nothing of particular note awaited him. Wilderness as quiet as ever, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What was this so called worse thing that could possibly await him? Whatever it was, it was nowhere to be seen.


Silence looping on repeat, the chimera sauntered onward. Not even any remaining robots adorning his uniform walking around, the hyena turned his head to the right and left. Had everything already been defeated? If such were the case, there was no threat that would swallow him up, for sure.


Jumping across the bridge from one end to another with a hop, skip and a jump, the early adult almost wanted to break in a song about it like a colorful assortment of horses in another universe. Enemies nowhere to be seen on the other side, as well, confusion looped on repeat. Why did Robin say something awaited him if there had been nothing? What strange fighting words.


Readying to move towards Mount Esus East, the young soldier read over his notes for the third time of the day. But, what had been written on the page gave the soldier a surprise he did not account for. Notes telling him he would need to locate an underwater cave and destroy a thorny cyst, the hyena read the sentence once more. He had to do what now? Destroy another growth in the ocean? How had any still been lingering around? But, he supposed the poisons within the water had done their bidding.


Continuing to head north for the time being, the early adult stared off into space. How was he supposed to locate a hidden cave if he weren't allowed to check his map? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. Surely, one he reached a body of water, finding what he would be looking for wouldn't be too difficult.


Soon reaching an ocean bed, the chimera removed his diving equipment from his satchel. Fat, blubbery suit soon engulfing him, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind and suit synched up with one another, the chimera let the waters swallow him up. Thrusted downward, the Liffey region waters awaited him.


Underwater world slightly discolored, a wave of concern flowed through the chimera. Had the waters truly been able to cleanse themselves from the toxins? He did not know why, but such seemed like quite the stretch. Diving suit continuing to push him forward, alarm bells continued to ring.


As the diving suit kept thrusting the soldier towards the west, the hyena observed the ocean around him. Sea denizens around looking as though they were struggling to breathe, the early adult's heart dropped into his stomach. Had the poison affected them? Why wasn't anyone helping them?


Knowing there was nothing he could do at the moment, the diving suit kept automatically pushing he early adult westward. Peculiar hole soon approaching, the hyena prepared himself. What would await him down below? Whatever a thorny cyst could be, it needed to be eliminated.


Dropping downward into into the cave world, the early adult steeled himself. But, what awaited him was a ball of terror. Huge, spiky spherical object pulsating in a cave with aquatic yellow grass, the early adult placed his fingers upon his glove. Tips twitching as he hovered over the jellyfish bomb button, preparedness was a corpse upon the battlefield.


Jellyfish head launched towards one of the thorny spikes, damage had been done to the enemy. But, as such had gone on, the soldier swore he could see the steel spherical ball continue to throb like a heart. Seeing such, the chimera's heart skipped a beat. Was the cyst a living breathing being? He was in jeopardy.


Letting down another aquatic explosive, the inorganic enemy continued pulsating. Seeing such, the soldier tried to keep his nerves, the chimera tried to tune out his thoughts. Third explosive popped off like a balloon, the thorns budged ever so slightly. But, such advantage had been short lived. Defenses kicking themselves up, fishy friends threw themselves upon the battlefield.


Crabs lowering their shells towards him, the early adult pressed the defense button upon his glove. Slimy crystals coming his way, the early adult aimed his gloved towards the crustacean's backside. Defense ready, the hyena retaliated with all his might. Shell taking a crack, the victor was about to be decided.


Fishy enemies removed from the equation, the bomby warfare returned to the frontlines. Singular appendage removing itself as the blows kept being dealt, the soldier kept the momentum going. Soon, surely, the forgotten about growth would be removed from the crevices of the ocean.


Second thorny appendage looking ready to snap, the hyena pushed onward. But, the defenses soon resumed themselves once more. Second army coming out from a jet stream, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. He had to fight Blubberbeasts? This growth had a mind of its own, guaranteed.


Sonar wave piercing the soldier's eardrums, the chimera flinched. Why were these creatures resorting to such horrible noises? Screeching cacophony picking up the speed for minutes on end, the early adult placed his gloves over his ears? The screeches, they were shattering, entrapping, maddening.


Pressing the sound wave button upon his glove, the early adult attempted to send such attack back the owner's way. Creatures swimming away one after another as their own racket was thrown back at them, everything stopped screeching. Defenses removed once more, the fight returned back towards the thorny monster.


Third appendage defeated after four blasts, the battle had soon readied to reach its final stages. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult pressed on. Any second now, and the fight versus the underwater growth would reach its conclusion. It was close. Time was ticking.


Fourth and final steel appendage floating away, the chimera brought down the aquatic blade. Growth decimated into absolutely nothing, the early adult exited the cave. No other enemies lurking about, the hyena returned to the Liffey Region waters. Knowing his job was not done yet, the early adult had his diving suit thrust him north.


But, as the hyena moved towards the fortress, two familiar confused faces stuck out to him. Underwater otter duo swimming around the sea with confused looks like always, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. What had these two forgotten this time? Twins turning to one another, the questions had begun rolling.


"What are we supposed to be doing again?" Huxian asked, clueless look on their face.


"I don't remember, either," Pixiu responded, shaking her head. "My mind's blank."


"Great," Huxian responded. "The Duke is going to say, 'Zack, Monique, you forgot your duties again?' Ugh." But, soon, a eureka moment threw itself into the ring.


"Wait, I remember now. We have to head for the forging factory," Pixiu responded. She then turned around. Stranger staring at them in the corner, she gave them a glance. "Have we met before? Your face looks familiar." As she said such, she tilted her. "Eh. That doesn't matter. Are you heading to the forging factory, too?"


Hearing Pixiu's question, the soldier gave her a nod. Why had these two always being sent down to the factory hidden behind the sea unicorn's abode? But, he supposed whatever their jobs were wasn't any business of his whatsoever. Duo in front of him trusting forward, a repeat of words had soon been said.


"We should go," Huxian said, words emotionless. "By the way, my name is not Zack, and her's isn't Monique."


As the otter duo thrusted forward with their semi aquatic bodies, the chimera could not help but wonder. Why had it been whenever he had encounters with these two, they always struggled to remember anything? Had they been inflicted with some sort of memory disease? Perhaps, just maybe, they needed to see the nurse in the Fortress.


But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Why was he speculating upon someone's possible health condition? It was not in his place to do so. Whatever memory issues they were facing, it was no business of his. He needed to keep his nose in his own life and not slice the invasion of privacy pie.


Layer of sea vines encased around the area near the entrance towards the sea unicorn domain, the early adult readied to decimate them with his aquatic blade. But such moment to fight never came. Undersea otter duo bathing the vines in holy light, they vanished into thin water.


Dropping beside the sea unicorn's abode, water snorkels soon adorned Huxian and Pixiu's faces. Party of three running off towards the opposite end of the battlefield, the pathway between the forging factory soon narrowed. But, as such gap drew closer, a wave of unease flowed through him.


Thorny obstacles awaiting the otter duo and he, the soldier's eyebrow twitched. Just how many of these vined challenges awaited? Attempting to hack away at them, the plants grew back like an unwanted zit upon a chin. No pneumaousia blocks in sight, the early adult waved the defeat flag.


Huxian and Pixiu dropping down the holy light, the chimera blinked of bewilderment as the vines dissipated into nothing. The otter duo, had their crosses been imbued with the power of pneuma? But, the soldier put a pin in such thought. No, that couldn't be it. There was something far different about it, for sure.


Stepping into the room before the forging factory, an army of monsters awaited the trio. Robotic mekas adorning Melusine garde clothing, the soldier rose an eyebrow. Why had these mechanical beings been wearing such outfits? But, such thoughts were cut short as a rancid scent engulfed the area.


Purple liquid oozing onto the ground, the chimera blinked. The mekas, had they been inflicted with the undersea poison? Something was not right whatsoever. Creatures ready to launch his way, the chimera placed the greatsword in front of him. The time had come to fight once again.


Bullets dancing his way, the chimera jumped four steps back. Blade swinging forward, the projectiles bounced off from whence they came. Gears set ablaze, the soldier covered his eyes. These bullets contained fire within them? How absolutely terrifying. Burning scent invading his nostrils, the soldier froze.


Huxian letting out a battle cry, the scent died down like a Cicin dropping dead on the battlefield. Opening his eyes once more, the hyena regained focus. What was he doing, letting his fears take control of him during a battle? Trying to drown out all emotion, the soldier threw himself back into combat.


Claymore taking the stage, the soldier slashed his claymore forward. Robot army dropping in numbers one after another, the power of holy light and claymores had done the deed. No more mechanical beings in the area, a dead look appeared on Huxian's face.


"Hold on, I remembered something else," Huxian said, face turning towards the opposite direction. "The Duke said, 'Zack, Monique, there's bombs hidden around the fortress, Look for them later?" But, he soon shook his head. "But, my name isn't Zack, and yours is not Monique."


Hearing that line once again, the chimera crossed his arms across his waist. Why did Zack, Huxian, rather, always say that? It was almost as if, a set of ones and zeros determined such line to be the only thing he could say under certain types of met conditions. But, such fact was unknown to the soldier.


Figuring his instructions accounted for the entirety of the Liffey Region as a whole, the soldier followed behind the otter duo in silence. Soon reaching the underwater prison, the undersea otter duo had soon been in the presence of the Fortress's duke. The soldier did not know why, but he swore he could see him smiling for a brief second.


"Zack, Monique, glad to see you remembered your jobs, for a change," the duke said, pleased.


"Bombs are hard to forget," Pixiu responded. "Did no one find any yet?"


"Nope. Pretty well hidden," the duke replied. But, Huxian soon interrupted.


"By the way, duke, my name is not Zack," Huxian responded. "And hers is not Monique."


"That doesn't matter right now," Pixiu said, shaking her head. "We have to find those bombs."


Gazing at his instructions as the conversation in front of him boiled into overdrive, the soldier spotted the Fortress of Meropide within his notes. Nothing but deal with any problems that might arise in the underwater prison to keep relationships between the over and underworld in balance, the early adult wanted to crumple up the paper into a ball. What was he, some sort of mediator between worlds? Absolutely ridiculous.


Finding suspicious looking objects around the Administrative Area, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. What in the world was there a hat lying around out in the open? How incredibly strange, and out of place. Flipping the head covering over, not a single surprise awaited him.


Stash of explosives snuggling inside, the soldier shook his head. Who left these here in a hat? Whoever did this wasn't very smart. Fuses looking rather dried out, bewilderment looped on repeat. Just what were these here for if they couldn't even do anything? Some villains had the brain of a goldfish.


Watching as Huxian diffused explosives from afar, the chimera's jaw practically dropped open. The spiky haired otter chimera, how in the world was he able to do that? Was him forgetting things just an act to hide his true strength? He could never make sense of this twin duo at all.


Running around the production zone, multiple suspicious hats laid out in the open. Seeing such, the soldier flipped them over. But, what awaited him was the sound of sizzling. Hearing such, the early adult's eyes grew wide. The explosives were about to blow, go kaboom, blow the entire joint. Timer soon ticking, a knot tied itself in the chimera's partially human stomach.


Numbers ticking down, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. The bombs, how was he supposed to stop them from blowing up? His knowledge in such area was zero. There was no way he would be able to do such a thing, under any given circumstances. Digits floating around the thirty second mark, the chimera's heart pounded like a jackhammer. But such situation soon simmered down.


"I'll do it," Huxian said. "Go to the upper floor."


Otter chimera diffusing he explosives once again, the soldier ran off towards the prison glass lift. Multiple head garnets uncovered with dud explosives, the soldier's lip quivered. Load up with real, or fake ones, could the criminals make up their minds? Empty threats removed, one last area remained.


Grand Duke saying he heard some loud ticking in his office, Pixiu and the hyena burst into the room. But what awaited was a horror to behold. Large round explosive sitting in the center of the corridor labelled gift for a pitiful loser, the soldier's entire body shook up a storm. Who in the world left this here? They were most certainly not a smart criminal.


"We'll have to cut this one up," Pixiu said, finger on their chin.


Hearing Pixiu's suggested, the soldier's mouth was left open agape. They had to cut the explosive up? What was it, a big watermelon? He was not some sort of fruit ninja. Whatever a ninja was, the hyena did not know. But, he supposed such suggestion should be accounted for.


Blade out in front of him, the early adult placed himself upon the duke's chair lunging forward, claymore in hand, the soldier let out an assortment of unusual noises. Explosive sliced in half as if it were a fruit, the young soldier blinked. That ridiculous idea worked? The sky would fall tonight.


Rest of the explosives soon dealt and done away with, the soldier had the diving suit bring him back upwards towards the surface. Sky a deep dark blue, the early adult's heart had begun to race. Had it been night already? He had to go perform the worst heist of all time right now.


Throwing himself behind a tree in the northwest corner, the soldier stripped off his diving suit. Uniform pants removed, as well, and winter jacket folded up and put away, the early adult's heist uniform soon graced his short body. Moving north through the mountains for quite some time, a peculiar tower soon awaited him.


Nothing but stairs awaiting him upon entry, the early adult ascended the staircase as quietly as his currently human legs would allow. But, as he reached the first room, Slimes awaited him. Seeing such, the phantom thief jumped back. Was there defenses lined up? He was about to get himself caught.


Slimes soon defeated after fifteen strikes, the sound of water draining flowed through the upper room above. Hearing such, the soldier had come to a quick realization. There was absolutely no way he'd be able to stealth through here quietly, he was as good as caught any second now.


Finding himself in a room with a machine, the early adult placed his finger on his chin. What was it that he had to do again for this mechanism? Hit the circular blade in a target spot? Parts soon moving, the soldier placed his blade in front of him. Attempting for minutes on end to hit the ovular object in the correct places, the puzzle soon ended itself.


Stairs to the next floor above soon unlocked, the early adult let out a sigh. His chances of doing any sort of stealthy heist were gone now. If anyone was here, he was as good as spotted. It was too late. He had already made too much noise. Reaching the final floor, the goods soon awaited.


But, as expected, a person awaited the phantom thief. Folu seated by a table tinkering away and doing work, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Why was it that whenever he had to steal something, it was always from the jackal researchers? Her Majesty had to have been doing this on purpose by now.


Knowing he had no choice but to take the small machinery about the early adult bent his knees downward. But, as he had done so, the compartments squeaked. Head soon turning towards him, an invisible white flag waved upon the air. He was the worst phantom thief of all time, for sure.


"Whoops! You're really a sloppy thief, aren't you?" Folu asked. "Why do you need my tech, what for?"


Hearing such question, the soldier zippered the lip. There was no way he could give out that he was a member of the Fatui being ordered to perform a heist. Her Majesty could be listening anywhere from Teyvat. He had to stay silent, at all costs. Staying silent, Folu twirled their hair around their finger.


Mr. Thiefers not giving them any sort of answer, Folu wondered. Was this guy being manipulated by someone into stealing? He can just have his prototypes if that's what he wanted. He supposed he did not mind letting him take a few if this were to be the last heist he were to perform.


"Go on, and take them," Folu said, pointing at their prototypes. "I'll just make more prototypes. Have fun, Mr. Thiefers!"


Given the okay to take the machines, the early adult's tilted his head. Why were they giving them up so easily? This was the worst heist, for sure. If Her Majesty were watching, she would be disappointed. Scooping up the prototypes and placing them inside his satchel, the early adult exited the tower.


Soon returning to the capital city of Fontaine, the Ginger Fatui awaited the soldier at the Aquabus station. Well dressed woman informing him his job isn't done yet, he had soon been escorted to Hotel Debord. Guided to his accommodations, everything soon grew quiet.


Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the soldier removed his heisting outfit. Single layered shirt being the only chest covering to remain, the hyena removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings, as well. Slumping into the hotel bed, the soldier closed his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep taking him away, one final thought crashed at bay.


What else could possibly be awaiting him?


***


"This mission involving
Heisting is still going?
Every time I have to press on with this, I feel guilty.


Please, Your Majesty,
Let's find something less criminal to do.
Obviously, the jackals already know what I am up
To. Please, put an end to


This. It has to stop. It
Has to end.
I don't want to do this, please
Cancel it. But, I
Know she won't, she is greedy. She wants
Everything. So, I must continue heisting. I have
No choice. Or,
She'll kill me. But, can


This be the last one, please?
How can I keep doing this to the jackal family?
Every single time I take one on their machines, I feel this


Horrible feeling of guilt.
Each and every time
I really do not wish to do this,
So, please, let this end. Let
This be the last time. I


Cannot keep doing this.
Oh, well, the choice is not mine, and I am
Not allowed to have such opinions.
That's right, I am nothing more than a pawn,
I am nothing more than a rook. I
Need to numb myself.
Unleash myself into being a working machine.
Every day is just another workday,
So let this guilt go, and get ready."


Waking up the next morning, a knock broke through the rest of the sound in the area. Hearing such, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Placing his lenses over his heterochromatic eyes, the young soldier lifted himself up from the covers. Uniform soon on, the hyena headed towards the entrance.


Ginger Fatui standing by his doorstep looking ready to deploy his orders, the chimera tilted his head. Was she his Fontaine subordinate now? He did not quite understand. But, he supposed he had been used to seeing her by now. Looking into her mask, he waited for further instructions.


"Soldier, before you go about your heist, you must go to the Foggy Forest," the ginger Fatui said. She soon continued. "And Lumidouce Harbor." A piece of paper rattled in her hand. "Here are you instructions from your boss."


Paper soon handed to him, the ginger Fatui exited the area. Reading over his notes for a moment, details laid themselves out in front of the hyena. Repeat of what the ginger said right in front of him, something else had been sandwiched in between such. Cave mentioned as well, and small bed underwater near Lumidouce Harbor mentioned, the orders settled in.


Heading off for the Aquabus right away, the soldier could not help but notice the water had been far worse looking than yesterday. Seeing such, the chimera could not help but wonder. Had the poison gotten worse? This could not have possibly been safe for travel.


Aquabus shortly arriving, the chimera seated himself. Quickly arriving at Marcotte Station after twenty-five minutes, the soldier had begun moving through the area. But, as he had done so, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. What could possibly be about to await him in the forest of fog nearby?


Heading upon the southern path, the early adult took a long, deep breath. Whatever might be waiting for him in the area, he needed to prepare for anything and everything. Station getting further behind as he pressed onward, a sense of doom loomed over his head.


Foggy Forest Path approaching slowly but surely, the chimera took another deep breath. Any second now, and something horrifying could be waiting for him. Whatever it was he needed to clear out, he needed to deal with it as quickly as he could possibly muster, no matter what.


Reaching the forest after an hour of walking from point a to point b, a wave of confusion flowed through him as he stepped foot inside the so called misty woods around him. Rabiu walking around the area working hard, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was the researcher jackal truly here, or was he imagining him? But, such question had an immediate answer.


Hearing someone walk into the foggy forest, Rabiu turned his head. But, what awaited him was not at all whom he expected. Siorc stepping in, his heart thumped. What was he doing here? It was dangerous. Maybe he should tell him to go back home, for now. Letting him get hurt was not in the cards.


"Um, uh, Siorc, is that you? It's dangerous here. You should go," Rabiu said, voice shaking, but he soon gazed at him. Look of disdain on his face, his tail hardened. "Um, sorry? Should I not call you by name? Earl told me it."


Hearing what he had suspected a week prior, the soldier shook his head. Why was Rabiu so jumpy all the time? But, he supposed he didn't blame him when he had three siblings who always got a thrill out of pretending they had no blood relation to him. Placing his hands in front him, the early adult signed don't worry, and that he was sent here on foggy display. Rabiu studying long and hard, he spoke up again.


"You were sent here? Uh, um, I'll help you out," Rabiu responded, voice shaking. "Let me know if you get hurt, okay?"


But, what awaited the hyena was a battle he did not wish to fight. Lakelight Lilies far larger than normal adoring leafy hands and feet, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He had to fight oversized flowers? How could he do such a thing? He couldn't bring harm to such a creature brought to life.


Stepping forward towards the lilies, the early adult stared off into space. Did he really have to bring harm to the flowers? Surely, there had to have been some other way to approach this situation. But, he knew that wasn't an option. The flowers were monsters. He had no choice but to fight them.


Watching Siorc freeze up with a pained look on his face. Rabiu studied him for a moment. Looking hesitant to fight, he wondered. Did he like flowers? Thinking about such, his cheeks grew pink. He did not know why, but that was pretty cute. Maybe it was best to tell him he would find seeds to plant in their place later.


"Does it hurt to fight them?" Rabiu asked. "Don't worry, I plant new seeds for you later, okay?"


Hearing Rabiu's words, the hyena turned to face him. He would plant new seeds at some point after this battle? That was incredibly nice of him for the forest. Knowing he had no choice but to fight the gigantic flower monsters before they took over the forest, the soldier prepared himself.


First flower taken out of the equation with the power of the soldier's greatsword and Rabiu's daggers, the party of two prepared to move forward. Mourning the loss of the Lakelight Lilies before moving forward, the soldier gazed at the misty woods around him. How could these flowers have gotten to the size they were? He did not quite understand.


Second set of lilies putting up quite the fight, the soldier could feel himself begin to sway. Why did it have to be this way? Whoever had caused the flowers to grow and become hostile, they needed to pay for such a thing. But, there was no time for thinking, he had to keep battling.


Multiple armies of blue plants defeated one after another in quick succession, the soldier sent his prayers to the Dendro Archon he was not supposed to worship for a quick recovery to the to the plant life within the area. But, he knew such would not be heard within the Hydro Nation of Justice.


Lilies near the cave off in the corner putting up quite the fight, the chimera let out a pant as the final blow had been dealt. Just what kind of power did these newly born monsters have? But, he supposed he would not get an answer to such, they could not talk.


Moving onwards towards the general direction of the cave in the corner, the early adult prepared himself for the final flower versus himself and the researcher jackal. Enemy letting down seeds of spite, the hyena attempted to bounce them back towards their owner.


Rabiu unleashing his daggers upon the enemy, the flower let out a roar. Hearing such, the soldier shivered, had there been some sort of lion hiding deep within the lily? But, the chimera shook his head. He was jumping to conclusions. That was not the case whatsoever.


Plant slain, the chimera stepped foot into the cave nearby. Rabiu walking alongside him, the soldier kept moving forward. He supposed he did not mind being in his company. But upon setting foot into the dark, damp secluded area, a peculiar object stood amongst the path.


Spotting a cannon in the center of the room, the hyena tilted his head to the left. What was something like this doing in here? Rabiu saying he will take care of this for him, he operated to missile throwing explosive. Ball throwing itself out of the machine, a wall crumbled away.


Entire new section of the cave revealing itself, a sight of horror soon awaited him. Highly germ infested waters bubbling about, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Purple sacks of bacteria floating around, the early adult skipped around the area to and fro. Where was the octopus pistol machine?


Eventually coming across the device in question, the soldier prepared himself. The water germs, they had to go, he had to get rid of them, no questions asked. Focusing his attention, the early adult aimed at the problematic object in front of him. Watching as the bacteria went from purple to green, the early adult took a breath.


First germ destroyed as it had been wet into nothing, the early adult made haste to the second infection. Same loop coming for the bacterial problem in a matter of moments, the green waters had soon returned to their normal shade. But, as everything had begun to wrap, an unexpected departure pushed itself in.


"Uh, um, sorry Siorc, I have to leave," Rabiu said, nervous tone of voice. "Try not to get hurt."


Researcher jackal exiting the area, the soldier walked around, for a moment. Multiple germs removed from the equation, one final obstacle soon awaited the chimera. Monster lily rearing its eyeless head, the chimera performed his breathing exercises. It was time to fight the flower. The choice was not his.


Large monstrous plant taken out of the picture after about forty slashes, the soldier removed himself from the hole dwelling of doom. Knowing his next order of business was to head off towards Lumidouce Harbor, the soldier's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. It was best to get there quickly.


But, as he approached the second most used harbor in all of Fontaine, screams penetrated through the area. Hearing such, the early adult flinched. What was going on here? Why was there so much hysteria? But, as he got ever so closer towards the issue, locals let their terror be known.


Multiple people screaming there had been sharks here, the chimera tiptoed towards the water. Loud slashing adding itself to the area, a shocking sight caught the soldier off guard for minutes on end. In front of him had been a robotic shark, jaw wide open, looking ready to fight at any given moment.


Ravaging beast coming towards him with a fury, the early adult gulped. Who made these? Why sharks this time? Whoever had made these had quite the strange taste in machinery. Knowing the pandemonium would die down if he put the monsters down, the chimera removed his greatsword from his satchel.


First mechanical shark going down rather easy, the early adult wiped sweat off his brow. How had this robotic monster been defeated so easily? Whoever made these was not suited for the robotics life whatsoever. But, his thoughts were incorrect by many margins.


Multiple robotic sharks lunging at him as he approached the Rusty Rudder, metallic teeth sunk into his arm harder than a blade cutting him. Chompers ready to make a meal out of him, the early adult let out a scream. Biters not letting go for minutes on end, the chimera's energy had begun to fade.


Creature soon letting go, the early adult huffed a breath. Was this what it felt like when he bit other people? Shark teeth were sharp and painful, indeed. Monster soon looking the other way after his fleshy meal, the soldier swung his blade forward. Creature looking weak, he dealt the final blow after twelve hits.


Final set of large mechanical fish destroyed into scrap metal after about two hours of fighting, a demand had soon come the soldier's way. Drunken pirate in the corner telling him there is more of them underwater, kill them now, the soldier could feel everything collapse. There were more lurking in the sea? Such was a recipe for disaster.


Diving equipment soon on, the hyena dropped down into the waters below. Multiple sharks underwater dashing around the area causing multiple problems, the chase had soon been on. Knowing he had to get rid of them before it was too late, the chimera had his suit thrust faster.


Catching up to a singular one looking ready to gobble up mechanical fish, the soldier dropped down a jellyfish head bomb. Explosive letting itself loose, the first of many moving around let out their rampaging aquatic tails. Dashing off towards the next enemy, he had the bomb ready.


Two more soon taken out of the picture, the chimera blinked at the sight before him from afar, mechanical enemies making the water dimmer around them, the hyena could not help but ponder. Had the mechanical sharks been the ones poisoning the water? But, he soon snapped himself out of it. No way, he was jumping to conclusions, for sure.


More sharks in the area blown to smithereens, the soldier dashed off towards the Tower of Gesalt entrance. Why were some of the monsters heading there? If they were to enter such an area, it would be too late to stop them. Letting his suit push him faster, the automatic motion was on turbo mode.


Entrance near Tower of Gesalt soon reached, the soldier dropped down multiple aquatic explosives one after another. Doing such, the final set of sharks had soon been vanquished. Oceans cleared out of any dangers, for the time being, the early adult ascended back towards the surface world.


Diving equipment put away, the early adult gazed at the sky above him. Sky a dark blue shade, the early adult removed his instructions from his back pocket. But, what awaited him was double trouble. Notes informing him he would have to perform a heist in two towers today, the sheet of Dendro creation practically fell from his hands.


Rereading the paper again, the soldier squinted. Two towers, he had to raid two? Two, one plus one, an additional area? There was no way he would be able to get away with this one, there would be more eyes on him, for sure. Reading the two had been in the northern area of the Research Institute, the doom only got worse. He was tighter than a lightbulb; done for.


Heading northwest for hours on end, the first tower had soon been reached. Entering the area, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Not seeing a single soul within, the hyena could not help but think. Had this been some sort of trap waiting for him? He needed to be careful.


Finding a seabed out on the other side of the tower, the soldier put on his diving equipment. Had this building been made near the sea? What a terrible place to put a place of research. Jumping into the waters, multiple mechanical treasures awaited him. Closing his eyes, the heist began.


Mechanical spoils taken without a soul witnessing, the early adult returned to the surface world. No one being in the tower, surely, it had to have been some sort of trap. But, such tricks never revealed themselves to him. Knowing he had to move onward to the next tower, the chimera exited the area.


Soon reaching the next tower in the area, the soldier lowered his feet into a tiptoe. Surely, if he moved through the tower quietly, no one would notice him gathering up machines. Entering the building, the hyena prepared himself for the slinking ahead. But, he had been caught immediately by a third party.


"Gotchya!" Oluchi exclaimed, grabbing thiefy's wrist. "Why are you trying to steal from cute little me?" As she said such, she dramatically placed her palm over her forehead, letting out a sigh.


Question coming his way, no answer came. There was no way he could tell her he was ordered to do this. Her Majesty could be listening, the walls had ears. Keeping himself quiet, the young future aviator woman gave him a mischievous smile. What was with that look? Whatever it was, it wasn't right.


"Too scared to say anything, thiefy?" Oluchi asked slyly. "I'll make your journey worthwhile!" As she said such, she picked up a spare prototype from the floor. "Take my broken prototype. I'm sharing with you, aren't I so cute? He he." She stuck out her tongue and did a peculiar pose with her clawed fingers. Touching the side of her hair with her index finger, her right palm handed off the goods.


Broken wing like machine handed to the soldier, the hyena let out a sigh. Her Majesty, there was absolutely no way she would be satisfied with being handed nonworking parts. But, he knew he wouldn't be able to get over to the working prototypes. He was being watched too closely.


Job done for the day, the early adult walked back towards the Marcotte Station. Soon reaching the capital city of Fontaine, the Ginger Fatui informed him for the second day in a row his job was not done yet. Guided towards the hotel, the soldier could feel a sense of dejavu. Was it just him or did it feel like time was looping?


Taken back to his hotel room, immediate tiredness overtook the chimera. Everything soon removed, the hyena slumped into the hotel bed. World of sleep ready to take him away as his head hit the pillow, one final thought had crashed at bay as the land of dreams dragged him back in.


What did Her Majesty need these machines for, anyway?


***


Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the chimera's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a never ending loop of pain, closing and opening like a door to anywhere. The pattern was relentless, deepening its influence with every evening passing. The night before him would only make matters worse.


Before him had been a field of three leafed clovers. But, such quick glance had been a mistake of a dream lifetime. Objects growing to twenty times their size, the early adult allowed a gulp to escape the dream esophagus. Why had they gotten so large? Had he been awake right now?


Feeling absolutely nothing, a wave of doom took the soldier away. He was dreaming right now. He was doomed, done, finished. Any minute now, and the clovers would destroy him, slice him, eat him for their leafy breakfast. Hearing the simulated sense of clanging blades, the plants moved towards him.


Edges of the clover's stems carving him deep, the early adult let out a scream. Blade shaking hands with his stomach, the crimson sea returned to the not reality before him once more. Swipes continuing onward for minutes on end, the early adult had become one with the ground.


Clovers looking ready to end his life, the hyena's body flopped onto his backside. Rampage continuing onward, the soldier accepted his fate. This was it, he was going to lose his life in the dream world to the unlucky three leaf clover. It was all over for him, he was finished, done, a goner.


But, as the dream minutes flew on by, the grass soon burst into flames. Fire burning bright, the early adult could feel his dream life melt away. Was this his punishment for attacking the Lakelight Lilies in the Foggy Forest Path? If such were the case, he accepted his demise. It was well deserved, he was a flower killer. How could he do such a thing? The hawk chimera was right, he was a heinous villain.


Flames travelling upward, his chest had soon been set ablaze. Torso pitch black within many dream seconds, one final blow had been dealt to the early adult's subconscious vessel. Clovers dropping down fiery petals of doom, his entire body had soon become charcoal. But, such had not been the true final blow.


"This is payback!" the three leaf clover shouted. "Take this, Incinerated Leaves!"


Body blanketed in flames, the early adult closed his dream eyes. Right, he was the Lakelight Lily killer. He deserved his demise. He was a traitor to nature, a villain, a monster. This was karma, his punishment for his crimes. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. The judgement was fair, the justice to him was served.


Dream breaths soon getting sharper and whistly, the hyena closed his dream eyes. It was over, his subconscious life had been extinguished once again. Last hurrah taking him out, the dream world soon grew black. But as his last moments in the not reality took shape, one last thought cracked the glass.


This is his punishment.


***


"Even today, I have to go and steal.
No more Your Majesty, please,
Open your eyes. This is
Unethical. I cannot keep
Going around stealing the jackal's
Hard work. I am feeling too guilty.


You need to realize these are just prototypes.
Obviously, she doesn't care, and there's no way I'd
Utter this to her, but
Really, please stop giving this


Mission to me. It's not right.
And, it's really harming the
Jackals and their technology.
Everything has to stop.
So, please. Put an end
To this, I am begging.
You are only harming other people.


No more, please.
Oh, but, I don't a choice, I have to continuing heisting.


Maybe this will be the last time I will ever have to do this.
Obviously, it won't be, but I hope it will.
Remove this order. This isn't
Even anything of value. These are prototypes. They nowhere near close to finishing.


So, please stop asking me
To steal these means, I am begging, desperate,
Even. This
All has to stop, please,
Let me do something else.
I do not feel good about this,
No way, I can't keep doing this, I am feeling far too
Guilty. All that work, sieged."


Waking up the next morning, the soldier burst himself to tears, head dropping down into his knees. But the early adult snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, getting emotional like this? Dreams weren't real. He had work to do. Composing himself, his uniform had soon been on.


Ginger Fatui knocking on the door like nonexistent clockwork, an order had soon come his way. Informed he would be heading for the Beryl Region today for one final cleanup this week, one last set of words he did not wish to hear graced his shark eardrums with swift mercy.


Told he would have to head for a few secret locations pointed out upon his paper map, the chimera held back the urge to groan. More hidden places? When would the heists end? But he knew he had no right to complain. Work was work. He needed to do it, no matter what.


Heading off towards the Aquabus, the soldier jumped off towards the halfway point. But immediately upon landing in this area, a heavy sense of doom loomed over him. Every single bed of water covered with germs aplenty, the chimera's eyes twitched. How had it been even worse in the Beryl Region than anywhere else? Something was off here, for sure.


Knowing he had to get rid of the dangerous bacteria before it could poison the water, the hyena ran off towards the first of many problems. Germs floating around in the area letting their menacing deadly water illnesses run wild, the soldier scoured the area for an octopus cannon.


Coming across a singular one, the chimera absorbed the temporary water power within. Jet shooting the germs at a slow, but assured pace, the first one soon dropped from violet to green. Readying the finger cannon of a lifetime, the bacteria had been slain. Knowing the second one had to be vanquished, the cycle continued.


Running off towards the boiling waters, germs awaited the hyena once again. Making haste, the bacteria had been removed from the picture after six attempts of doing so. Boiling water remaining heated ever after such cleansing, the hyena had come to wonder. Had there been something else making the bed of liquid hot? He would have to find the source later.


Moving along, silence around the area looped on repeat. Hole near Merusea Village adorning the germy obstacle, as well, a wave of concern flowed through him, the Melusines underwater, Brume and Eclater were they alright? If they had been down there, they would come down with some sort of ailment. He needed to take care of the problem right now.


Bacteria decimated in a matter of moments, the early adult let out a deep huff. Merusea Village was it okay now? But, he knew he had no time to go underwater to check. He had to keep going through the Beryl Region for the time being. Heading north for quite awhile, the soldier prepared himself.


But, as he headed towards the beast circle, two unlikely faces awaited him. Spotting Brume and Eclater adorning water tanks decimating monsters in spades with their scythes together, the early adult adjusted his glasses. Was he really seeing this right now? His eyes were definitely playing tricks on him. Eyes soon on him, he grit his teeth.


"Careful, bro, there's some dangerous monsters here," Brume said as he kept slicing away.


"Yeah, dude, leave it to us!" Eclater exclaimed. "We'll clean this place up so our sisters don't get sick!"


Sea lion prankster duo not giving him the opportunity to join them, the soldier skipped past the beast circle. He supposed, if these two already had the area covered, he had no reason to impede upon their fight. Continuing north for awhile, absolutely nothing of note happened for minutes on end. Battles soon coming out of the woodworks as he went further north, however, the soldier vanquished multiple metallic enemies.


But, a curse would strike twice.


As the soldier reached the edge of Elynas, the worst two faces he did not wish to see darkened the area to black. Abyssal Gazelles sitting upon the grass, legs folded like pretzels as if they were waiting for some sort of invitation, the hyena could feel his heart drop into his stomach. What were they doing here? What did they want? He knew, what was about to happen, it was going to be unpleasant. Eyes on him and smirk soon coming his way, doom loomed over his shoulder.


"He has arrived!" Kelebek announced with a sly grin on one's face. "You've been expecting him!" As evil bore its fangs, the next part of the unwanted surprise spoke.


"We have a gift for you!" Izzet cried, smirking. As they said such, a pitch black mineral with blue jade presenting itself to the world. "Enjoy!"


Gift thrown his way, the soldier had come to a quick realization as the mineral was lunged towards him. The present from Izzet, it had been Noctilucous Jade. He was done for. Rock going inside him like some prince going inside a magical girl princess, a heavy wave of unease ate the hyena up like a plate of Feast O's. The abyssal gazelles, what did they just do to him? Words escaping, everything grew loud.


"What did you do to me?!" the hyena blurted out.


"He'll see!" Kelebek shouted, laughing.


"Enjoy our gift!" Izzet shouted, laughing.


Abyssal gazelles disappearing through a portal, the soldier's face grew dark. Heart racing, his thoughts ate him alive. The hooded strangers, what did they do to him? What would he see? Why did they throw Noctilucous Jade at him? It was inside him, would it do something to him? Would he turn into black stone? But, he threw such questions away. Why was he thinking so hard about this? He needed to finish work. Surely, it would be nothing.


Knowing he had to continue the job ahead of him, the final sets of cleansing had been done. Every single germ removed from the equation after a few hours, the soldier's heart kept beating hard and fast in his chest. What was going to happen to him? The jade inside him, would it consume him? Would he become the mineral? But, he popped such questions with a pin. No more. He had to get ready for heisting.


Taking a deep breath, the soldier read over the heisting locations. Told he would have to steal from the underwater factory in the southern region of the Research Institute, the hyena titled his head. He had to go back there again? Just what did Her Majesty expect from any of this? Nothing of value would be gained here.


Moving back towards the Aquabus, the vehicle soon made a special trip towards Marcotte Station. Taking the northern path away from the area, the soldier soon found himself beside a body of water near broken structures. Diving equipment soon on, the chimera automatically thrusted downward once again.


Soon reaching the hidden underwater cave, a quick, but effective heist had taken place. Looting multiple small machines, the early adult allowed a sigh to escape the esophagus. Why did he have to take these things? Her Majesty, surely, she knew all of what he was taking so far was incredibly useless. But, he supposed she did not know.


Notes informing him the next mini heist would need to be performed within a secret study south of the gear monster field, the soldier made haste. He had to raid secret studies now? Something wasn't adding up. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter, if he wished to keep on living.


Heading northeast for awhile towards the gear monsters domain, the soldier soon headed south. Reaching a small hole off in the corner, a hidden study soon revealed itself to the hyena. Doors opening as if they were expecting him, the chimera walked right inside.


Moving into the room of many mysteries, abandoned machinery had been in the area aplenty. Seeing such, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had this been some sort of elaborate trap to lure him? If such were the case, he should not take the bait. But, he had already been here, leaving with nothing would only disappoint Her Majesty. Looting needed to occur.


Four out of the seven machines taken, the soldier exited the area. Next order of business an underwater tower off towards the Liffey Region, the chimera took a deep breath. Was he about to steal from the fortress? What a terrible idea, he'd be locked up in no time.


But, what awaited him had not been the prison in the slightest. Coming across a rather peculiar submerged tower somewhere near the prison, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Had this been some sort of place that used to be operational? There had to have been plenty of abandoned things that did not matter if were missing.


Small collection of loot removed, the soldier broke out into a sweat. Being a terrible phantom thief was quite the hard work. Returning to the surface, more names had been on the list. Northern tower and New Research Institute upon the list, the chimera took a deep breath. Only two more, and he was free from the heist life.


But upon reaching the northern tower, the soldier immediately realized. Had he already come here? Why had he been told to come here a second time? Not finding any sort of machinery to take within, the chimera shook his head. He had wasted his time coming here. It was time for the last heist.


Nightfall soon coming for him as the research lab approached, sweat poured down the soldier's back. It was time for last heist. Would it be the final one in his career? The soldier had hoped so. So called invisible spray pulled out from his satchel, the hyena sprayed such concoction on him.


But, such was an empty hamburger with nothing but buns. Not becoming transparent, the hyena rolled his eyes. Sure, one-hundred-percent effectiveness. Was there a negative sign next to that? Knowing he was definitely about to get caught, the soldier placed suction cups upon his hands and feet. He supposed he had to have at least tried to be stealthy.


As he stuck himself to the walls, however, the soldier could hear a nose sniffing up a good one. Hearing such, the early adult's eyes twitched. Was he going to get caught only after seconds of attempted to stealth? He was the world's worst phantom thief, indeed. He needed to be fired from this criminal position right now.


"Does everyone hear those suction cups?" Sani asked. "I bet it's Sir Thiefal again. Look for him!"


Party of four patrolling the area, the soldier froze up. He was done for. It was over, there was no way he would be able to perform the heist now. He was gone, finished, dead, disappointment to Her Majesty. Attempting to remove himself from the wall for a place to hide, the soldier wiggled.


Such attempt at movement had been an immediate failure. Suction not letting go, the soldier had been a poster glued to the wall. He was stuck, immobile, a display piece for researchers to gawk at until they got bored. But, after about fifteen minutes, Folu and Oluchi soon came by.


"Hi, Mr. Thief! We caught ya!" Oluchi cried, pointing. "Get down from there! You're not taking anything today!"


"Um, just let him take what he needs, Oluchi," Rabiu called out from afar. "He's not taking anything too bad, anyway."


"An adopted person would let a thief get away with the loot!" Oluchi called back. But, bitter medicine had been sent back.


"Um, wouldn't that make you adopted, then?" Rabiu asked. "You gave him one of your machines yesterday."


"Nope, just you!" Oluchi fired back almost immediately. "I'm way too cute to be adopted!"


"Okay, you two, let's get our favorite thief off the wall," Folu said sarcastically. "One, two, three---" But as he said such, the entire room shook.


Large mechanical shark jumping on the ground in the corner, the suction cups had soon come loose. Falling straight upon the concrete as everything continued shaking, the chimera's back had soon taken a small hit. Sting taking him away, the early adult clicked his tongue.


"Nuts, it's here!" Folu shouted. "Come on, everyone, we have to fight!"


Getting himself together, the soldier brought his claymore to the battlefield. Mechanical shark soon letting down its tantrum of doom, shockwaves overtook the area for minutes on end. Feeling, the soldier fell back to the ground once again. The power of the quakes was overpowering indeed.


Jackal quartet bringing out their weapons, a wrist mounted knife had soon been slashed upon the enemy. Folu letting out a battle cry, they kept on going. But, everything had been rolling out a one of six upon the dice. Mechanical shark nibbling on their tail, they let out a scream.


Sani putting his club beside his shoulder, he soon wacked the mechanical shark a new one. Blunt contusion taking the creature out for a second, Rabiu soon lunged forward. Integrated dagger and shield taking the stage, the power of Geo compelled him for minutes on end.


Mechanical sea creature soon coming to its senses, Oluchi slammed down her axes of doom. Electricity bringing itself into the mix, the enemy had been zapped for minutes on end. Knowing such had been an opportunity to come in with the slicing strike, the early adult jumped into battle.


Claymore taking the stage, the shark soon snapped out of it. Creature smirking the early adult's eyes opened wide. Teeth aimed at his hip, the world grew dark. He was about to become a snack, a meal. Biters crunching down on his hip, the soldier let out a scream. The canines, they were strong, potent, lethal.


Rabiu's shield of rock removing the biting attack of doom off his joints, the chimera placed himself into a fighting stance as blood dripped onto the ground. Trying to bear the pain, the chimera swiped forward. Monster losing power, Sani let down the anemomancy to end it all.


Folu letting down their elemental capabilities, as well, the wind swirled. Large attack swirling anemo energy combined with the powers of lightning and horrifying Pyro taking the shark out of the picture, the soldier's eyes opened wide. Anemo, could it combine with other elements to make more powerful reactions, how absolutely fascinating. Battling coming to a close, Rabiu soon ran to his side.


"You're hurt," Rabiu said, voice shaking. "Let me tend to your wounds." As he said such, his cheeks grew pink.


"Aww, look!" Folu exclaimed, pointing at Rabiu's cheeks. "He's blushing!"


"Um, no I'm not?" Rabiu fired back, blushing harder. "I like girls!"


"How many times are you going to lie?" Folu fired back. "It's not getting any more true!"


Folu mentioning the bent ruler again as Rabiu dressed the wound up with cream, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. This jackal needed to stop saying such things. What did it matter whether Rabiu liked men or women? He was neither a male, nor female. Rabiu should not be so embarrassed over about liking those the society perceived as men. But, he kept himself quiet. He had to have been going through a lot within his mind right now. Researcher jackal soon standing back up, his orange eyes soon met his mismatched ones.


"You're all patched up now," Rabiu said, gulping. "Um, uh, if you ever need um, machines, just ask, and I'll give them to you." As he said such, his knees shook. Placing a small crane machine in his hands, his cheeks grew pink. "Um, here. Take this one for today."


Small bird machine handed to him, the early adult's worst heist of them all had soon been completed. Removing himself from the research institute, the soldier made his unceremonious return towards the Marcotte Station. Back at the Court of Fontaine, the city had soon been bustling with activity once more.


Returning to Hotel Debord, the Ginger Fatui awaited the soldier. Satchel soon ripped off his back, the hyena's eyebrows twitched as the masked woman counted every single commodity within. Hearing such, a wave of unease flowed through him. If even one singular machine was missing, it was over.


"Good enough," the ginger Fatui called out. "Go home now, soldier."


Dismissal coming his way, the soldier removed the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Stepping through the icy cold hallways, the wave of doom came out of hiding. Soundproof room reached after about fifteen minutes of walking, the chimera walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor.


Kelebek and Izzet, what did they do to him? He could not sake off this heavy sense of doom looming within him. They had done something horrible to him, for sure. Whatever was about to happen, he knew it would not be a good thing. Thoughts still looming, he reversed the orientation of his circle.


The abyssal gazelles, why couldn't they just leave him be? Their revenge, couldn't they have been satisfied by now? What more could they possibly do to him before becoming satisfied? But, he supposed no matter what he did, their vengeance would never be fulfilled.


Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses soon put aside, the chimera's eyes closed as soon as his head hit the pillow. Tossing and turning for hours, the dream world was ready to invite him back in. But, as the world of sleep was ready to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


What did the abyssal gazelles do to him?


Malice was in the air.

 

[Palamon]

21. Liyue's Rocky Tournaments. The Ladles Rumble

"Am I hearing things?
No, I can't, I cannot believe this,
Of all orders, why
This, Your Majesty?
How is this
Even going to help you take over the world?
Really, this won't help. I


Don't get it. Mining?
Absolutely ridiculous
You're kidding.


At least explain,
No, who am I kidding?
Obviously, she will not.
There is no way
Her Majesty will
Ever explain anything.
Right, so mining. This will


Probably be simple,
Easy. Another day of nothing.
Could this be the beginning of
Unleashing mundaneness upon me?
Looks like things are
Inadvertently about to loop.
Ah, it begins, everything
Reversing, repeating.


Oh, I am exaggerating,
Right. Time isn't looping,
Don't let that illusion
Eat me again.
Right, right, time is moving


Forward, it is not going to
Redial, it's not going to loop
Or repeat.
Mining is a rare order from


Her Majesty,
Especially lately. This is not a
Repeat order.


Maybe this will be
A one time thing, so I should
Just let this go,
Even so opinions are forbidden,
So get down and focus
Time to get hacking
Yes, break away those stones


My Claymore
Is ready.
Nothing should stop me,
It's just minerals,
Nothing challenging about it, truly.
Get ready.


It is just another


Day in Liyue,
Onwards to the


Nation of Contracts
Onwards towards the
Towers of rocks, the


Quest is a go,
Unleash my blade upon these
Infinite supplies of
Tough rocks,
Everything she wants, I must obtain. That is the


Ultimate key, do
Not leave any behind
Do not cut sloppily,
Every single moment,
She is watching me
The walls have eyes
And ears, I am
Never alone, in this
Distant breeze.


Onwards to Liyue,
Her Majesty is watching,


Watching thoroughly,
Every movement I make might be seen.
Look cautiously,
Look carefully.


Get myself ready for anything,
Ore, here I come.


Take everything necessary,
I am ready, Your
Majesty, so
Everything will soon be yours. Get ready."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the soldier's adult Fatui life. The loop was a spiky obstacle, harming everyone on constant repeat without a single apology anywhere in sight. Such spikes were getting sharper, letting themselves down sharply as every cycle reversed back to zero. The night before him was no different, as well.


Before him had been a field crop of Lumidouce Bells. They were a gentle purple flower hanging down from a small vine. Seeing such a plant, the soldier had come to an immediate conclusion. The dream world had taken him to Fontaine today. Coming to such realization, fear rumbled within the hyena.


Seating himself by the crops, the chimera could not help but wonder. Why had the dream world taken him to Fontaine today? But, the soldier supposed he had traversed through Fontaine enough for it to stick in his memory. Keeping himself seated, for the time being, the soldier's dream body kept relaxing.


Fear continuing to swallow the soldier whole, the chimera stared at the dream world around him. What terrifying obstacle would await him today? The hyena did not know, but he knew he would need to remain on his subconscious toes at all costs. Remaining on the edge of his grassy seat, the alert bells kept dinging.


Absolutely nothing happening for dream minutes on end, the soldier titled his subconscious head. Was the dream before him not going to be a tormenting one after all? Lumidouce Bells glowing upon the dream sky, the early adult let out a blissful sigh. Perhaps, just maybe, the dream before him would be a normal one, for a change.


An astronomically, incorrect assumption, on his part.


Blinding light soon engulfing him, the early adult closed his dream eyes. Opening them once more, a shocking sight to behold took the soldier by a rainstorm. Oratrice on the stage right in front of him, the chimera had come to a quick conclusion. He had been transported to the Opera House, without a shadow of a doubt.


Finding himself in a middle row seat, the chimera turned his attention towards the stage. But, what awaited him was contagious confusion ready to infect the entire world with its potency. Dancer doing multiple pirouettes on stage, the hyena studied the possible figment of his imagination.


Dancing upon the stage had been a young woman with long white hair that went down to about her legs with sky blue light streaks that looked like they could glow. Loose cowlick on top moving as her exercise continued, the early adult kept observing. Heterochromatic eyes that were light and dark blue, the left one adorned a teardrop shaped pupil. White, blue, and black outfit with a tiny amount of skin showing, the hyena ended his examination as she had continued to dance shoeless.


Continuing to watch the woman on stage dance, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why had he been transported to the court room? Absolutely nothing about this made any sense. But, he supposed he was about to find out. Show continuing, something soon interrupted the performance.


"How much longer?" a voice sobbed out.


Loud tears continuing for dream minutes on end, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Who was crying? Couldn't their disturbances wait until the show was over? Scouting the area from his seat for minutes on end, absolutely nothing of note stuck out to him. Realizing such, fear washed over the soldier.


The person crying, could they have been a dream ghost? But, the hyena threw such thoughts out the window. There was no way that was possible. But, such dream thoughts were immediately interrupted as the dancer on stage took a moment out of her performance to respond to the disturbance.


"Just a little longer," the dancer responded. After saying such, she returned to her performance.


Performance and light sobs continuing further, the early adult's confusion looped on repeat. Where was he exactly? Had he truly been in the opera house? Who had been crying? But, he knew none of such would ever come to an answer. The dream world was a place of many mysteries. But, as the dance went on, however, another interruption kicked in.


Doors to the opera house slamming straight open, loud boots stomped around the area as if they owned the place. Eyes soon laser focused on him, the early adult let out a gulp. It was over, torment had returned from dormancy. He was about to get the punishment of a dream life time.


"An intruder has entered the theater!" the voice shouted. "Burn them at the stake!"


Hearing such, the soldier knew for certain. The people that stomped in, they were here for him. No one else in the theater, the early adult's dream body turned to stone. He was about to be hung to dry, crucifixed, made a sacrifice to the Gods. Apologize, yes, apologize. He had to show remorse for his intrusion.


But, no such apology ever came. Feeling a zipper close his lips shut, no words escaped the hyena's dream throat. Muffled noises playing on repeat, the faceless nobodies lifted the soldier up as if he were the lightest paperweight in the world. Squirming with all his might, his subconscious thoughts soon raced. So what if he were an intruder. He had no control over his dream world. There was no way for him to know such entrance into the opera house was illegal.


Such thoughts, however, were cut off almost immediately. Arms and legs spread out upon the stake, rope clamped itself down upon his limbs in dream seconds. Fire blazing down below, the chimera said his final dream prayers to the Archons above. Flames travelling upward faster than his dream eyes could follow, the final death knell counted down to zero.


Flames bathing him, the early adult let out a scream. Fire continuing to burn for minutes on end, an invisible white flag waved upon the battlefield. It was over, his execution was about to come to an end. Entire body set ablaze, one final thought broke through the soldier's dying dream brain.


Trespassing is lethal.


***


"Alright, Your Majesty,


Could you stop with these
Overly ridiculous orders?
Of everything you've ever requested, I
Know there has to be some sort of catch
I know you don't want me to just enter into this competition.
No way. You're planning something. I don't quite
Get this, really. You're asking me to go


Cook in front of people. Why? This
Obviously won't help you take over the world.
Man, this is truly baffling.
Please, tell me you're just kidding.
Even I am starting to
Think this order
Is some sort of joke.
This makes no sense.
I simply cannot believe this is happening.
Of all orders, this is the one you ask of me.
Nothing makes sense lately.


Oh, Your Majesty, just what are you thinking? I never
Know, everything in this cold breeze is
Absolutely random.
You're unpredictable.


Everything makes no sense.
X equals Y.
Come on, please put an end to these
Unpredictable orders you're giving me.
She never will though,
Even though they're confusing,


My life is always this way.
Everything is unpredictable.


Well, it is what it is.
How many years have I been here
Already? Almost about eight.
That's just how it is.


That's how things are
Here. Gone are my days
In Mondstadt, living
Silently. Done are my days


In Mondstadt, living peacefully. I am
Soldier forevermore. A


Soldier, until I depart from this world. There will be no
Overture, no applause.


So, it's off towards Liyue I go. Off
To mine and compete
Upon the land of contracts.
Perhaps, this will be my only odd job this week. Although,
I am uncertain. I have to work, no matter what.
Diligence is key.


So, I mustn't complain,
Or shirk duties.
Really, that is key, to successful living. I must
Remember I am a pawn on the chessboard.
Yes, keep working."


Thirty-two hours had passed since the hyena was the worst phantom thief of all time once again. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred. Diplomatic affairs of nothing taking place in Blackcliff Forge, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Slow day droning by, mundaneness swallowed the chimera whole.


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human brain. But, the chimera quickly snapped himself out of it. This was not the time to let a dream rule his morning. He needed to get up right away. Lifting himself up from the rock hard covers. The time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena's uniform melted onto his partially human person, the soldier stared off into space. The abyssal gazelles, just what exactly was their gift to him? Nothing had happened yet. The jade, would it remain dormant inside him until its poison made its move? But, the chimera stopped himself from thinking any further. Surely, if something were to happen to him, it could be fixed.


Returning his focus to the workday ahead of him, the hyena removed the cover off his hairpin and earring box. Weaponized hairpins and earrings clicked into place, matching black hearts adorned his hair and ears. Sharp ends clamping down upon him, the hyena stared off into space. Turning his prized possessions into weapons, was this truly what he wanted? Regret flowed through the hyena as the seconds marched onward.


Thoughts dragging the soldier down into a pool of torment, the soldier's thoughts dragged him down towards the bottom of the ocean. Walking around in a circle upon the icy cold floor, the early adult's thoughts kept racing. That dream he had, what was that all about? Thoughts only continuing to race, his circle about continued.


Pace about continuing onward, the questions continued. That woman he saw in his dreams dancing on stage, just who was she? But, the soldier shook his head. She wasn't a real. He should not concern himself over fictional people he came across while visiting the world of sleep. Snapping his thoughts away, the early adult resumed getting ready.


Dendro Vision soon hooked onto his uniform pants, the Geo Delusion glared daggers at the chimera. The sinister orb, should he finally make use of it? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. Such was not a good idea, for sure. The time had not yet come to use Her Majesty's gift. Surely, if he were to use it now, the jade placed inside him would start its rampage.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the hyena's thoughts only continued to rumble. Circular motion coming back from the dead, the hyena could feel doom loom over his shoulder. What's going to happen to him? Any moment now, and the jade inside him would make its move. But, such thoughts were cut off almost immediately.


Hearing the louder than ever before militaristic footsteps march onward inexorably, the soldier ended his pace about. What was he doing, letting his thoughts get the better of him? He needed to stop thinking about this nonsense right this instant. Shaking it all out, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. No more of this nonsense, it was time for work. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention towards the door. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be mining mysterious ore around Liyue. As well as participating in competition as a surprise competitor." The Masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "Try to win in order to give the Fatui a good name."


Siorc jumped three steps back upon hearing his orders for the day. He had to do what now? Enter a competition? Why was he told about such a thing at last second? He did not quite understand. How incredibly ludicrous. He should have been told about this the day prior. There was no way he would qualify.


The early adult clicked his tongue as the word competition rung in his inhuman eardrums. Being told about a competition possibly the day of, absolutely ludicrous nonsense. How could this information be delivered to him so late? The Agent had a screw or ten loose. How incredibly ridiculous.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you listening to me? You will be mining and competing in a competition over the next few days! Get a move on!"


The hyena flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock right now. There was no time for dawdling, or Her Majesty would kill him. Taking a long deep breath, the chimera placed his arm out in front of him. There was no more time for thinking. His workday was upon him.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Last minute or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter but to follow orders.


"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. "While in the city, go look for someone to direct you towards the Amber deposit locations." Arm out in front of him, the Agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as relentless as it always had been, the early adult stared off into space as the escort towards Liyue soon began.


There was no way he would be able to win a competition he will be entered into at the last possible second.


***


"Amber, what was that
Mineral again? That
Breakable stone in Mt. Hulao?
Everything is making no sense,
Really. Where did any of that come from?


How could it have appeared in other areas?
Everything is making zero sense to me lately.
Remove all these deposits?
Everything seems to have grown overnight.


After all, I did not see a single out of place
Mineral yesterday while in
Blackcliff Forge. Not
Even one. There was nothing of the sort. What
Rumbled after I left? Was


There some sort of rock slide?
How could this be?
Even the Nation of Contracts has become
Rather unpredictable lately.
Even I do not quite fathom


Anything that is happening.
Maybe this will just be a singular incident.
But, I know that is hardly the case.
Everything happens for a
Reason, I suppose.


And, as it stands, these
Minerals have to go. I must
Break them. Those are my orders.
Even though it's
Ridiculous, I have to do as instructed.


Every single piece of amber has to be removed, become a
Victim, derockezation.
Every single one, without fail.
Removed, deleted, put away.
Yes, that is my duty.
Why this in particular, I do not know.
However, it is best to do as I am told. Without
Exception. So off I go, onto
Rock removal duty. Surely, this will be
Easy. I need to be ready for anything."


Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the Teleport Waypoint, the soldier had been removed from gripping prison in an instant. Agent writing his name down upon a cooking competition list, the soldier swore he could see Yínlóng's name all the way at the top. But, the early adult's eyes soon stopped wandering as the Agent gazed at him once more.


Agent reminding him to look for ------- and ask him about the mineral deposits, the Agent walked towards the opposite direction. Seeing such, the early adult took a deep breath. It had been the morning, surely, the tall brunette couldn't have gone too far yet. Preparing himself, the soldier set himself towards the western path.


Figuring the tall brunette was in the Wanwen Bookhouse right about now, the early adult kept moving forward. But, as he walked past the Wanmin Restaurant, the soldier could not help but ponder. Why did Her Majesty want him to mine ore for? Surely, she did not need anything she was asking for.


Continuing along, the soldier's thoughts kept on erupting one after another. Mining amber deposits, None of that made any sense whatsoever. But, he supposed almost all of his orders had always been vague. He knew it was best to not question for any reason at all whatsoever.


Thoughts storming as he kept on moving along, the deluge kept on dragging him out to sea. A cooking competition, why was he being entered into such a thing? Wasn't Her Majesty bent up on taking over the world? What would participating in a cooking competition do to bring her closer to such goal?


Deluge continuing to eat the soldier up, the hyena could not help but recall the names he had seen upon the list. The panda chimera had entered the competition? He had his work cut out for him if such were the case. But, he knew he would have to try his best, no matter what.


As the early adult kept on moving, the early adult's mind kept on wandering for minutes on end. How could so much have happened overnight? But, he supposed anything is possible over the course of twenty four hours. Perhaps, there had just been a rock storm while he had been away.


Wanwen Bookhouse feeling farther away than it should have, the early adult's thoughts had begun to jumble. The abyssal gazelles, could they have been the ones who placed the invasive amber in places beyond Mt. Hulao? Whenever something problematic had arisen, it was always related to them.


But, the chimera threw such thoughts out the window. Why was his mind jumping to shift the blame on someone? He needed to stop jumping to such a conclusion without evidence. It was quite distasteful of him. Not everything was at the fault of the hooded strangers, for sure.


World around him tuning out as he continued, the soldier kept moving forward. Surely, the abyssal gazelles had better things to do than always cause trouble. Removing any suspicions from deep within him, his westward walk soon continued onward for minutes on end.


Such stroll about, however, was halted as the early adult heard an incredibly loud thud. Red world right in front of eyes, the hyena flinched. Where had this staircase come from all of the sudden? Regaining his focus, the soldier slapped his cheeks. Right, he was looking for the tall brunette. Why did he allow himself to get so deeply lost in thought? He needed to pull himself together.


Stepping away from the frame of the ascending walkway, the chimera stepped upon the staircase. Question on the tip of his tongue as he kept moving upwards upon the ramp, the hyena kept his wandering thoughts locked in a jar. No more allowing himself to get lost in thought. He was on the nonexistent clock right now.


Reaching the Wanwen Bookhouse, the tall brunette had been in the spot he usually had been. Long scroll opened up, a wave of guilt flowed through the soldier. He had been reading? There was no way he could disturb his moments of peace. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter.


Blue haired bookworm in the corner reading a book, as well, the soldier could feel the world crash down onto his shoulders. Scroll open in his tiny palms as well, guilt flowed through him. He was definitely going to ruin both their days with the disturbance he was about to unleash. Taking a deep breath, the early adult readied to fire the question off.


But, no such inquiry ever came. Only the first two letters of excusing himself tumbling outward, the early adult clammed himself up. No, there was absolutely no way he could disturb these two while they were reading. Absolutely not. They were reading. He needed to leave them be. But, eyes were almost immediately upon him as he zippered the lip.


"Ah, Mr. -------, this young man would like to speak with you," the blue haired bookworm said.


Scroll slammed shut, the early adult flinched. He had definitely disturbed the tall brunette from his reading, without question. There was absolutely no doubt of such. Eyes wandering towards him, the hyena gave eye contact. He needed to ask about the amber deposits quickly, so his morning activities could continue.


"Salutations, Mr. Siorc, you wished to speak with me?" the tall brunette asked.


Knowing asking verbal questions was forbidden of him, the chimera placed his hands in front of him. Spelling out the word amber with his fingers, an entire audience of eyes had been on him. Seeing such, the soldier could feel himself ready to shrink up into a violet. Did everyone have to look? But, he supposed his disturbance had been awarded with more onlookers than necessary.


"Ah, you are asking about the amber, no?" the blue haired bookworm asked.


"That would be correct, Mr. -------," the tall brunette said to the blue haired bookworm. He then turned towards Siorc. "The amber you are seeking has appeared around west Liyue. I would advise you get yourself an axe." He then folded his arms across his waist. "But, it is imperative you proceed with caution. It would appear there are creatures encased within."


Bowing a thank you, the soldier descended the staircase. Figuring it was in his best interest to follow the advice given, the early adult prepared himself to head off towards the blacksmith. If there had been monsters hiding inside, perhaps, just maybe, it was best to purchase a greatsword, as well.


As the hyena moved towards the direction of which he came, the hyena could not help but wonder. What could possibly be lurking inside the amber deposits? But, he knew once he reached the southern areas in Liyue, he would find out what that could have been.


Taking a long deep breath, the early adult prepared himself. An axe and a claymore, that's all he had to purchase. Stepping towards the blacksmith, the soldier placed his hands out in front of him. Eyes soon on him, the usual business hours friendliness came his way.


Inquiry about what he needed, the early adult signed the words axe and claymore for every wandering passerby to see. Blacksmith saying he'll have to make him an axe and it'll cost extra, the soldier nodded. Heated instrument getting straight to work, a weapon had soon been made.


Mora handed off to the blacksmith, and two weapons given in exchange, the early adult sheathed the blades behind him. Figuring the best course of action was to head off towards Mt. Tianheng first and foremost, the chimera prepared to stage his exit. Walking back towards the waypoint of which he came, the hyena steeled himself. It was best to get to mining right away before the evening's cooking competition were to start.


Crossing the bridge near the teahouse the early adult moved forward. This cooking competition, was his entry truly allowed? Surely, it was way too late at this point in time to be allowed to compete. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. If he were to continue to let his thoughts wander any further, he would bump into something once more.


Continuing to move forward, the hyena kept his eyes open for anything unusual. If he were amber, where would he be hiding? He needed to keep his eyes open for any orange minerals blocking pathways ahead. Looking around from the right to left as he kept moving forward, something of immediate note cause the chimera's attention.


Statute's right outside the city encased in in a hard, orange surface the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What in the world happened here? How did the warrior monuments get locked into a bed of minerals? He needed to remove them from their prison right away.


Axe out in front of him, the soldier was not ready to bury the hatchet under any circumstance. Hacking away to the best of his ability, the early adult broke into a cold sweat. Was it just his imagination, or had the ore been sturdier than he thought? He was about to have his work cut out for him.


Hacking away for minutes on end, the early adult let out a huff as barely anything broke apart. What was this amber made out of, titanium? Rocks had quite the iron clad defense indeed. Pushing on through as hard as he could possibly muster, cracks started to let themselves show.


First statue removed from is amber prison, the hyena moved onwards towards the second one adjacent to it. Defenses at an all time high, the hyena let out a grunt as his hacks of low power continued. Minerals far sturdier than the last, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. He would be at this for hours, guaranteed.


Monument freed from its prison after an hour of hacking away, the early adult wiped the sweat off his brow. Is this what felt like to be a lumberjack? He supposed he would never know such a feeling. He would never cut down a poor innocent tree minding its own business.


Knowing it was best to continue onwards throughout the western Mt. Tianheng, the soldier kept moving forward. Nothing of note on the pathway ahead, the chimera kept his eyes open for anything unusual. Any moment now, and he would be in front of the next mineral deposit, without a shadow of a doubt.


Upon arriving in the next area, the hyena could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Spotting large deposits of rubies, sapphires and emeralds alongside the amber debris, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. When had these gems ever been here before? But, it was time to get hacking and stop thinking.


Placing himself in front of the ruby first, the soldier gazed at the obstacle, for a moment. Large encasement glistening on the daytime sky, the early adult let out a sigh. Such a shame he had to wreck such a thing. Axe ready and able, the metallic edges pressed themselves against the jewels.


Red gems budging slowly but surely, the early adult wiped the sweat off his brow. Clumps dropping down one after another, the hyena could feel a tiny raindrop pour down upon him. Destroying such a beautiful jewel, what a waste. Minerals almost broken apart, the final round of ruby versus Siorc reached its climax.


Pocketing the bright jewels, for the moment, the soldier let out a whistle. Surely, Her Majesty would enjoy a little present from his excursion. Dropping the gems inside, the chimera moved himself towards the first amber deposit of many. Axe doing its duties, no creatures popped out from inside.


Moving onto the second amber deposit, the obstacle had been removed within twenty minutes. No creatures to speak of popping out, the soldier threw out two percent of his caution to the wind. Maybe there were no enemies lurking about after all. Running towards the next challenge, the soldier would not falter.


Large clump of sapphire right in front of him, the hyena let out a battle cry as his axe took one for the team. Blue minerals putting up quite the fight, the chimera pressed down harder. Why were these so hard to cut? Were sapphires tougher in hardness than rubies? The chimera did not know, but he knew he could not give up.


Blue minerals broken apart after fifteen minutes of hacking away, the soldier pocketed a small deposit of them. Winter jacket clinking as he ran towards the emerald deposit, the hyena readied the hatchet once more. Pressing down with all his might, the gems broke apart one after another.


Pocketing the emeralds, the chimera curved downwards upon the southeastern path. Spotting something of particular note from afar, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. What had he just seen off in the distance? He needed to pick up the pace right away. Sprinting faster, he soon arrived at the scene of the mineral crime.


Large amber encasings in the shape of blocks the soldier's eyebrows twitched. How had such an obstacle appeared here? Breaking away at the block for minutes on end, the object dropped onto the ground like a certain block game that would fall apart if even one was moved incorrectly. But, a surprise soon awaited him.


Entire army of boars running away off towards the forests from afar, the chimera backed five steps away. How had the creatures of the wilderness end up getting themselves trapped into a mineral prison? He would need to keep himself on the lookout for any more creatures held in their prisons against his will.


Only area ahead west of the mountains, the chimera turned his heelless shoes off towards the opposite direction. Nothing growing back in western Mt. Tianheng, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. There was no extra work for him to deal with. It was best to keep going.


Pushing through a small cave, an entire road of mineral deposits awaited the soldier. Orange rocks pulsating, the chimera's knees buckles. Did the obstacles here contain some sort of power? He needed to proceed with caution. Weapon out in front of him, the soldier swore he could hear a headless voice scream for him to cut it.


Voices breaking through for minutes on end, a group of squirrels dashed away as they had been freed from their prison, the hyena backed two steps away. Were the rodents talking to him? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was no way. He had to have imagined it.


Moving right along, more minerals had been cut further. Woodland creatures running away as he finished breaking on through to the other side, the hyena took a moment to breathe. Hacking away at the rest of the small blocks, the squirrels kept popping out of the rocks as if they were just born.


Final mineral broken through, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was there anything truly wrong with these jewel blocks? There had been nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps, just maybe, there had been no monsters to worry about going forward. Moving right along, the chimera sauntered onward.


But, such peaceful moments were never meant to last.


Reaching the outer edges of Qingxu Pool, another large block of amber awaited him. Seeing such, the soldier prepared himself. Would another army of forest boars await him? Another two percent of caution leaving his brain, the axe met his jewely enemy of hard knocks.


Square of rock coming apart surprisingly well, the chimera let out a tired huff. Did he really need to prepare himself for any hostilities? Absolutely nothing of the sort had existed thus far. Breaking away faster as the seconds paraded onward, every amount of caution rooted within died.


He should not have let himself get comfortable.


Hearing a disturbing buzzing noise, the soldier heart skipped a beat as he looked upward. Gigantic bugs the size a filly, the early adult jumped four steps back. Stingers glowing against the sunlight, the early adult unsheathed the claymore from behind him. It was time for these insects to be swatted away.


Creatures bringing their stingers the soldier's way, the chimera jumped six steps back. Monster's weapons of singular usefulness pressed into a rocks nearby, the early adult prepared himself for the easiest win of all time. Such, victory, however, did not come in a swift manner.


Enemies freeing themselves from the mountains, the monsters flew towards the soldier, stingers out and about. Claymore in front of him, the hyena swung towards the mob with all his might. Blade clashing against their bottoms, the scales did not turn themselves for even a moment.


Creatures buzzing about the soldier swore he could hear a metallic sound clang against his greatsword. The large bugs, were they shielding themselves already? They were quite the cautious creatures. But, he knew could not falter. Pressing harder, the defenses outshined the offense.


Shield broke through after about ten minutes of swiping, the creatures flew off towards the left. Insects going from two to six in seconds, the chimera leaped backwards. The enemies had the ability to multiply and divide? What was he, in an intergalactic space station that visited other planets? If only he had a bat to break them apart.


Throwing his jokes aside, the early adult kept his slashes going. But, such only lead to more multiplying for minutes on end. Cacophony of buzzes blasting his ears a new one, the hyena held back the urge to scream. Everything was loud, unbearable, mind numbing.


Tuning the noises out, the hyena's blade pressed onward. But, such proved to be a continuous mistake. Army only growing bigger, the chimera let out a grunt. What in the world was going on? Did these creatures multiply every time the leader was attacked? Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to focus his attention on the minions.


Aiming his greatsword upon the lesser opponents, the multiplication voided itself. Creatures lasting more minutes than he was willing to admit, the early adult ran off towards the side. Perhaps, just maybe he had to resort to other tactics, for the time being.


Collecting of rocks picked up from the corner, the early adult rolled his shoulder. Hard mineral lunged upon the wind, the huge creatures from Teyvat knows where had become flat as a pancake. Minions becoming dust upon the wind one after another, only the leader remained.


Final bug getting its stinger ready, the boulders of doom had been thrown towards the opponent. Metals clanging as the rocks broke on through, the soldier bent his knees backwards, for a moment. Taking the leap of faith, the chimera's blade charged. Plate cracking after five strikes forward, the hyena spun his blade like a spinning top.


Area cleared out, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. How did these creatures find themselves locked away in their mineral prison? Knowing there was no answer to such a question, the hyena moved along. There was more minerals to carve away. He didn't have time to think about such things.


Reaching Lingju Pass after about an hour of walking, another set of amber blocks awaited the soldier. Preparing himself for any battle that might be out to get him, the soldier firmly grasped his axe. Any second now, and another horde of enemies would await him.


Nothing popping out of the first set of minerals, a wave of bewilderment ate the chimera up like a plate of almond tofu. Was there no creatures inside any more of these mineral deposits? How peculiar. Rocks dropping out of the picture, the soldier kept the momentum going.


Not a single soul stirring in the next deposit, the hyena titled his head. The tall brunette was quite off the nose about there being enemies lurking inside. Hacking away for minutes on end, silence looped on repeat. Birds flying out, the chimera let out a sigh. Mundaneness was quite the tiresome loop.


Boars and swans dashing off as more rock had been cut through, the chimera shook his head. How had all these creatures gotten themselves stuck inside these encasements? Had they been living fossils? He remembered hearing from his father in his stolen childhood that amber was a good material for preserving living beings, but he always thought such was only a fairy tale.


Everything carved out, the chimera knew it was time to move onwards towards Guyun Stone Forest. Knowing it was the furthest south in Liyue one could go before being bombarded by a stretch of endless ocean, the soldier turned his heelless shoes off towards the direction of which he came.


But, as the soldier moved back through Mt. Tianheng, a surprise awaited him. Blocks of amber returning tenfold, the hyena's heart skipped more than two beats. Did the minerals have the ability to grow back after all? He was screwed in tighter than a lightbulb, if so. Axe out and about, the amberjacking had soon begun from the beginning.


First block cut open, a familiar buzzing sound echoed in his eardrums. Buzzy enemies letting their stingers out once more, the early adult's greatsword had been invited to the party. There was more where that came from? It was time to make bug juice.


Aiming towards the lesser members of the mob, multiplication deleted itself from the equation. Insect's numbers dropping from seven to one after about fifteen minutes of fighting, the hyena's bespectacled eye laser focused themselves on the leader. It was time to make a bug pie.


Rock soon in his right hand, the early adult tossed the object like it was a ball in a sports game. Blade swinging, the stone rode the wind. Next pancake served cold, the soldier dashed off towards the next obstacle in front of him. Bashing the hatchet in, the chimera resisted the urge to yell timber as it fell.


Third, fourth and fifth block cut open, woodland creatures dashed away as if they had hadn't seen sunlight in millions of years. Who was responsible for the poor, innocent animal's imprisonment? Whoever had done this, they would pay for such a terrible crime to the animal kingdom.


Regaining focus, the soldier's amberjacking continued. Nothing else of especial note popping out from the blocks of rock, the early adult kept moving north, for the time being. Stone Forest quite the paces away, the hyena accelerated his walk into a speedy sprint.


As the soldier kept running, questions had begun to roll pebbles around in the chimera's fading human brain. These minerals where could they have possibly come from? Blaming the abyssal gazelles for this was not the answer. There was no way they could have possibly been responsible for every inconvenience that happened in every single nation.


Sprint about speeding up as the beaches were in sight, a spark popped off in the hyena's brain. Of course it was the abyssal gazelles, who else could it have been? This was their fault, for sure. This had their names written all over it. Dropping down obstacles was their favorite pastime.


But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, blaming them for this? The amber could have just been a natural occurring phenomenon within Liyue. He needed to stop jumping to shift the blame on them for everything. It was not always their fault. He needed to move on.


Beaches almost upon him, the soldier hopped across the land like a rabbit. Spotting a large encasement of amber across the way, the early adult cracked his knuckles. There was more across the sand? He was ready to get carving right away. But, such had not been the only jewel that awaited him.


Cor Lapis and peculiar looking pink jade, the early adult scratched the side of his head. Had there always been Cor Lapis on the beach like this? Maybe it was best to cut such first before raking in the big blades. Resolute on his decision, the chimera pressed his claymore downward.


Nothing out of the ordinary popping out as every single deposit of Cor Lapis broke out of their rocky homes, the soldier's ears twitched. What did he waste his time mining these for? But, the early adult shook his head. They were in excess here, they needed to be cut away.


Every single surplus removed, the chimera broke down the peculiarly colored jade, as well. Minerals glistening on the sand as they had been pulverized, the soldier pocketed the rock. He could not help but feel the jewels contained some sort of powers that needed to be studied.


Same old nothing popping out from the amber, the chimera readied to traverse towards the northwestern area. Everything the exact same as he kept going, the hyena rubbed his eyes. Was he seeing double? How had the mineral deposits been in the exact same spots as the previous part of the rocky forest?


Excess Cor Lapis taken out of its misery, the hyena let out a sigh. The Geo Archon, was he angry? He could not help but feel the surplus of rocks was a storm of things to come. Orange gems vanishing into the ether as they had been cut and dealt with, the early adult readied himself for round twenty.


Pink jade tumbling out of its rocky home, the early adult studied it for a moment. Minerals continuing to glow, the chimera pocketed another set. Whatever powers they contained, it was for Her Majesty to deal with. Orange blocks broken through as well, crabs walked sideways out of their imprisonment.


Entire south side of the beach tinted the color orange, the hyena's heart had begun to beat like a jackhammer. Had the problem up ahead been worse the further he were to go? He needed to hurry to the scene as fast as he could possibly muster. Dragging his legs upon the sand, the soldier made a beeline.


Seeing a large block of amber about as wide as a building, the hyena's practically fell on the sand. How in the world did such a big encasement of amber get here? There was no way he would be able to cut it apart in one fell swoop. Cracking his knuckles, the hyena steeled himself.


But, as the early adult hacked away, thoughts buzzed around in his mind like a swarm of Cicins. The amber and jade, could it have been poisonous, too? He swore he could see goop plopping out as pieces chipped themselves away. Gluey puddles mounting themselves up, the fear kept eating him.


Ooze pooling underneath his feet as the amberjacking continued, the hyena's thoughts stuck to him like the glue beneath. He was definitely, without a doubt, about to be imbued with more toxins. Squirming as he kept on going, the early adult moved over towards the backside of the lifeless enemy. He needed to be nimble; he needed to be quick, or he would have to jump over a candle stick.


Slimy goop pouring out with every single hit, the chimera flinched. What in the world was wrong with these mineral, was it melting? Placing his hand against it for a moment, no heat emanated throughout. Was it opposite day? Was it hot when it was cold and yes when it was no? What a magnet.


Bottom half of the amber sliding off like a dead tree coming tumbling down, the hyena once again resisted the urge to yell timber. Oozy juices splashing all over him, the hyena held back the urge to gag. Mineral juice, absolutely disgusting. Shaking off the damp garbage like a soaked dog, the hyena resumed cutting.


Juices soaking him once more as the cuts kept on going, the soldier let out a scream. Did this mineral have a mind of its own? Rock dissolving into nothing after a few minutes, the hyena removed his winter coat, for a moment. Shaking it out upon the wind, the vile liquids removed themselves from his body covering.


Moving along towards the cave off in the corner, nothing of particular note stuck out to the soldier. Geo Crystalflies flapping their wings about on the rocky air, the early adult studied everything in front of him. Coming across a small room in the corner filled to the brim with rubies, sapphires and emeralds galore, the next cutting session took the stage.


As the red, blue and green jewels popped out of their sockets, the fears from prior came back to haunt the hyena. The miscellaneous jewels he had been cutting, could they have contained toxins, too? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. What in the world was he thinking? He really needed to stop letting his fears take him over.


Evening clouds soon kicking themselves in, the early adult shook like a maraca. The cooking competition, it could start any minute. He needed to get out of this forest right this instant. There was no more time for cutting minerals. He had to return to the city right away.


Dashing out of the cave and leaving the stone forest behind, a realization had washed over the soldier. The competition, the Agent hadn't told him where it was taking place. How could he have forgotten to mention that part? But, he supposed he was quite used to him being vague all the time.


Sprinting south as fast as his human legs could carry him, the early adult's heart beat harder as faster as he kept on going. The cooking competition, he was going to be late. Would he get points docked off for tardiness? There was no way he could possibly win if such were the case.


City getting closer with every single step, the soldier's thoughts popped like a bubble. Sun long gone, the early adult sped his movement up a smidgeon faster. Evening was almost here. He was doomed, a loser, Her Majesty's biggest disappointment. She had to have regretted stealing him from his family many years prior by now.


Dashing across the harbor's bridge, the early adult could feel his breath die as reached the other end of the walkway. Agent waiting for him on the other end, the hyena broke out into a deep pant. Air returning to him, the early adult prepared all his apologies in an invisible compensation box. He was about to get shouted at for sure.


But, no such screams ever came. Agent's mask gazing at him in silence, the hyena gave unseen eye contact. Had he not been cross with him for being late? Hadn't he told him this morning he should aim to win? Subordinate looking ready to speak, the early adult gave him his full attention.


"Right on time, soldier," the Agent said, slight pride evident in his voice. "The competition is in the Wharf. Get going."


Nodding, the early adult rummaged through his pockets, for a moment. Spoils handed off, the soldier swore the Agent said something about the power jewels being useful. Hearing such, the young soldier rolled his eyes to the sky. Was he about to turn yellow and gain superpowers from them? What a riveting experience.


Knowing he had no more time to waste, the early adult dashed off towards the wharf. Finding a large booth with stoves where the fishmongers usually were, the hyena sped up his running speed, for a moment. Breath becoming a zombie as he approached the competition, the chimera's mouth whistled as he calmed his beating heart down.


Moving towards the competition scene, the hyena studied the competitors for a moment. Panda chimera adorning a pink outfit with golden flowers on the sleeves and near the waist, the early adult blinked. Was he in his competition clothing? They had to have been fired up right about now.


Turning his head towards the other competitor, the early adult blinked. Spotting the chef at Wangshu Inn ready to remove everyone from the competition, the hyena attempted to put on a game face. There were only two people competing? Maybe he stood a chance at placing second. But, as the panda chimera looked towards him, his nerves lost their steel.


Seeing Siorc in the corner looking nervous, Yínlóng placed their hands upon their chin in a slow manner. Was he competing in the Jade Ladle competition, too? What a strange turn of events. Was he here to win? They could feel butterflies begin to rumble in their stomach. The wharf was about to be on fire.


"Oh, hey, Siorc!" Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "You're competing too? Good luck!"


Judges seating themselves at the table as Yínlóng finished speaking, the soldier turned his attention towards the trio seating themselves. But, what awaited him was a world of surprises. Liyue's legal advisor seating herself on the left chair, the early adult's teeth chattered. She's a judge? If anything was amiss, blame would be pointed towards him, for sure.


Generic elderly woman in the middle seat, the early adult tilted his head. Who has this person been, exactly? Hearing the legal advisor refer to her as her master, the soldier shrugged his shoulders. It was best to not judge the judges. Turning his head towards the third person, he examined them, as well.


Seating himself on the third and final seat had been a short young man with brown hair that went down to about his shoulders. Small ponytail up on top, red streaks towards the bottom and tiny headband poking out, the early adult gazed at the stranger's clothes, for a moment. Green opened jacket revealing his solid red shirt a small lion keychain held his horrifying Pyro Vision in place. Auburn eyes full of life, the early adult could not help but wonder. Who was this person, where could they have possibly been from? He had never seen them before in all of Teyvat. But, as he kept thinking, a voice rumbled.


"Welcome to the Jade Ladle competition," the generic elderly woman announced. "Your theme is seafood."


"Your time limit is an hour," the legal advisor added. "Feel free to make use of any of the ingredients left out."


Hearing he only had an hour to cook, the early adult flinched. He only had sixty minutes? How was that enough time? But, he knew that he didn't have time to think, he had to get ready to cook now. Spotting a recipe for Golden Shrimp Balls, the hyena swiped it. He supposed that would do.


Grabbing the ingredients listed, the early adult dashed off towards the stove in the corner. Wangshu Inn chef and panda chimera already cooking up their dishes, the early adult dialed the stove to seventy degrees celsius. Dropping the fishes in one after another, the soldier could feel his fingers get slippery as the frying started itself up.


Dropping down a bucket load of seasoning, the chimera's eyebrows twitched, had he put in too much? It was going to taste terrible, for sure. Reaching for the potatoes, the hyena sprinkled the spuds in, as well. Flame sizzling underneath, the early adult frantically flipped the seafood over as they broiled.


Hands slipping and sliding as his frantic frying of doom continued on, the early adult flipped the shrimp onto their backsides. But, as he had done so, the hyena whiffed up a scent of smoke. Potatoes charring at the ends, the hyena held back the urge to scream. The stove, had he made it too hot? He was going to lose for sure.


Dropping a bucket load of oil, the chimera could feel tears stream down his face as the ends of the shrimp burned away. The seafood, it was shriveling up, dying for the second time. Timer reaching the twenty minute mark, the chimera could feel time wrap coils around him. The hourglass was dropping. It was almost over. He was done for.


Lowering the level of the flame a smidgeon, the soldier flipped the shrimp like they were patties on a grill in an undersea eating established with a singular fry cook on duty. Dead creatures inside the pan looking ready to scream at him to stop, the soldier dashed off towards the table once again.


Knowing the dish needed some spices, the hyena laced down the salts aplenty. Condiments sizzling as he kept going, the soldier flinched. Why was he letting himself continue to mess up like this? He was a failure as a cook. Pressure was his worst enemy. Dropping in the saucy juices, more ends soon had become black.


Timer soon hovering over the five minute mark, the soldier turned the stove off in a frantic manner. Arrange the dish onto a plate, he had to arrange the golden shrimp in a circular pattern before it was too late. Dragging a plate onto the table, the worst possible food arrangement had begun.


Slightly charred seafood arranged in a circular pattern, the soldier placed a flower in the center of the plate. Timer soon popping off, the early adult's back was crawling with ants. There was absolutely no way he would win now. It was over, done, finished. Last place, disappointment central.


Dishes soon presented to the judges, the hyena watched in silence as the legal advisor chowed down on her dish chosen amongst the three. Watching as she bit down on a creamy fish dish with a boatload of sauce, the soldier swore he could feel the young antler woman strip inside her mind.


Elderly woman biting slowly into some ricey fish dish with panda ears, the soldier blinked at the wise lady of many years commentary. Hearing her say she liked the creativity behind the dish, the hyena waved the white flag above him. It was over, he had definitely lost now. His next destination, disappointment city. Population: death.


Brunette soon munching away on his dish, the hyena could feel spark of fear drop down his spine. Loud crunches overtaking the area, the chimera closed his eyes. He was going to get the negative comments of a lifetime, guaranteed. Young man looking ready to judge, the soldier prepared for negative judgement.


"Shrimp's a little too crispy," the brunette said. "Were they burned?"


Hearing such comments, the soldier deflated like a balloon. It was over now. He was done, finished, a definite loser. Her Majesty, why did she want him to compete in such a competition in the first place? There was no way he would make the Fatui look good at all in this situation whatsoever. Unsure what to say, the early adult bowed an apology.


Tuning out the rest of the judges as they discussed the winner with each other, the soldier could feel the disappointing aura loom over him. There was no way he would be declared the winner. He was going to be given third place for sure, without a shadow of a doubt. Discussions soon wrapping themselves up, an announcement soon made itself clear.


"And the winner is," the legal advisor announced, leave suspense in the air. "Yínlóng!"


Seeing a slow smile creep up on Yínlóng's face, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of pride flow through him. A well deserved win to be had, for sure. But, the hyena did not hear any cheers from the panda. Realizing such, the hyena tilted his head. Were they not happy for being crowned the victor? But, his thoughts were soon quelled as they walked towards the Wangshu Inn cook.


"You did very well, Mr. Yanxiao!" Yínlóng exclaimed, words slow. "Want my prize?"


Jade ladle handed off to the cook, the early adult could not help but smile. The panda chimera was such a nice person. But, as the celebrations kicked off, the soldier had been dragged out of the arena at full force. As the escort away stopped, the hyena swore he could see steam popping out of the Agent's mask.


"How could you burn the shrimp, soldier?"! the Agent asked in an irritated tone. But, a surprising immediate answer had come his way.


"I'm sorry, sir, I'll try harder tomorrow!" Siorc responded, bowing his head.


"You'd better, soldier," the Agent responded in a firm tone. "I've entered you into a race tomorrow. Go back to Snezhnaya this instant!"


Ordered to return to the permafrost north, the early adult removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Walking through the icy cold hallways, fear swallowed the soldier whole. The Agent was definitely cross with him, it was over for him now.


Wave of heavy tiredness flowing through him, the hyena removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed as well, the soldier slumped into the rock hard bed. Glasses put aside, as well, the chimera closed his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. World of tormented dreams ready to call him back in, one last thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


He had to try harder tomorrow, or he was a goner.


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic fatui life. The cycle was a spiral, circling out of control with every night passing by. The circular motion was an optical illusion, tricking every single person that fell for it. The trap would lay itself down again in the night before him, as well.


Before him had been a field of edelweisses. But, such flowers had lost their innocence. Spiky traps aplenty surrounding them, the hyena's currently human knees buckled. Were the fields a trap? He needed to step around him to the best of his ability. Stepping off towards the side, the dodges had begun.


But, such attempts to side step were a failure upon arrival. Peculiar spiky torture device popping out of nowhere from behind him, the chimera's eyes had opened wide as he turned around. What in the world was there an Iron Maiden doing here? Had he been transported into a Fontaine dark ages crime novel? Dream body frozen in place, there was nowhere to run.


Death device closing him in, spikes clamped down on the soldier one after another. Feeling a simulated sense of pain, a pool of red liquid plopped down underneath him. Crunches continuing as the spikes clamped down further and further, the early adult let out a pained scream. Was this what characters in books felt like when they were in a chokey? Dream life ready to drift away, the hyena's dream thoughts raced.


Spikes clicking in further, the hyena flinched. Surely, there had to have been a way out of this box of danger. But, no such exit existed. Feeling a lock on the door, the soldier could feel the holes within his subconscious skin only get deeper. Strength collapsing further, an invisible white flag had been waved.


Whiffing up a simulated scent of fire, the chimera could hold on no longer. As the torture device had set itself ablaze, the hyena closed his dream eyes. Body burning to cinders, the soldier's dream life swept away. As his final dream moments saw themselves out, one final thought crashed through the early adult's fading dream brain.


It was a trap, indeed.


***


"This is making no sense to me.
How can there still be mine to ore? Did
Everything grow over night again?


Really, this isn't making
Any sense to me, whatsoever.
Can't quite get this.
Even a singular night away and


I have more mining to do.
Nothing makes sense.


Just how many places shave I missed?
Unless I am completely mistaken, I must go north today.
Even more amber awaits me.
Yet, I don't quite
Understand. Why am I still doing this? Do I
Not have to race today? I don't


Know. I guess I will find out.
After all, my days are always
Rather busy.
So, I suppose I'll have
To see."


Upon waking up the next morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. What was that dream he had just now? But, the soldier immediately shook such off. There was no time to get himself wrapped up in the world of fantasy. He needed to get himself ready for work right now.


Agent informing him once again he needed to mine more ore, the soldier swore he could hear him whisper Her Majesty would like more of the pink jade especially. Hearing such, the early adult blinked. She wanted more of the not green jade? He supposed he would serve her what she asked for.


Reaching Liyue Harbor through the teleport waypoint, he had soon been informed the race would be at Jueyun Karst in the evening. Agent leaving towards Northland Bank, the hyena allowed a sigh to escape the esophagus. It was debt collecting day. He could feel a wave of pity for whoever was daring enough to borrow from a Fatui owned bank.


Placing his temporary axe onto his uniform belt as the smither sharpened it for him, the soldier could see the tall brunette strutting on by with an important air to him beside the fence. Seeing such, the hyena stepped off towards the side. Was he going somewhere? He needed space to walk, for sure. But, as he had done such, eyes were on him and his weapon.


"Ah, Mr. Siorc, if you are going mining again, I would suggest heading northward," the tall brunette suggested. "But, I must give you a word of caution. It is possible danger awaits you. Proceed carefully."


Giving the wise man a nod, the hyena prepared to stage his exit. Heading towards the wharf, the chimera stepped onto the bridge at the city's exit. As he readied to leave the harbor behind, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could possibly await him today? Would there be more pink jade to collect? He needed to make sure to look for some.


But, almost immediately upon leaving the area, something of peculiar note stuck out to the soldier. Bright crystals peeking out of rocks seating themselves upon the land like they were the area's king, the chimera tilted his head. What in all of Teyvat were these? Dens where special elemental monsters fought against a team of four? But, the hyena threw such thought away. This was not a fantasy world, it was reality.


Placing the axe in front of him, the chimera had begun hacking away. But, as he had begun to do so, a blinding green light overtook him. What was this? Where was this power coming from? But, the early adult attempted to put on a brave face. Minerals dropping from their home, the chimera picked the spoils of crystal war up.


Crystals glowing with a bright green aura, the hyena could not help but wonder. Did these minerals have some sort of elemental powers? Maybe it was best to keep some to give to Her Majesty later. Deciding upon such, the chimera slipped the cut gems into his pockets.


Continuing to head north, another bed of crystals awaited him. Readying to cut some more, the soldier prepared himself for another blinding light to engulf him. Objects cut, orange and blue lights practically melted his eyes into nothing. Was this the caution the tall brunette meant? Giving him a warning about such was definitely necessary.


Guili Plains inching closer with every given second, an entire army of crystal deposits kept the soldier further away from such area for hours on end. Seeing the bed before him, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Just how many of these mineral deposits awaited him? But, he knew complaining would get him nowhere. It was time to get back to crystaljacking.


Multiple blinding colors threatening his eyeballs with permanent damage worse than it had already been, the early adult held back the urge to scream. But, the early adult continued to close his lids. Don't look, don't peek. He needed to keep cutting. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.


Pockets rumbling as he moved forward, the hyena crooked his head downward, for a moment. Just what had these crystals powers been? He could not help but continue to wonder. But, he supposed he would find out sooner or later. It was best to keep moving along, for the time being.


Minerals adding themselves up in his pockets as he continued, the chimera let out a huff. Was it just his imagination, or had the crystals been harder to break apart from their stone houses? Surely, he had to have been imagining it. Perhaps, just maybe, his axe's blade had gotten duller.


Golden crystals struggling to fall out from their house for minutes on end, the chimera tilted his head. Were these really crystals? Why had they been so sturdy? But, he supposed different types of minerals had different levels of hardness. He would need to study up on such in the future, for certain.


Final crystal bed cut into, the hyena had staged his arrival upon Guili Plains. Taking a deep breath as his pockets shook, the hyena let out a tired sigh at the sight laid out before him. Amber deposits everywhere the eye could see, the chimera cracked his knuckles. It was time to get to work once again.


But, as the soldier cut away the amber, a returning guest had given the soldier an audience. Large bugs with their stingers equipped and ready, the chimera's heart skipped more than four beats. The monsters were back with a vengeance, armored in full. He was done for.


Singular creature buzzing about, the soldier took his claymore out from behind him. His flower friend, there was no way he could summon them into this battle. Didn't insects eat plants? The power of Dendro had to take a back seat. Physical prowess was his only tool, for the time being.


Swinging his greatsword with all his might, the chimera let out a scream. But, as he had done so, a repeat kicked into overdrive. Creature diving itself into multiple pieces, the soldier's eyes opened wide. The multiplication had begun. He was done, toast, dinner.


Putting his fears aside, the soldier swiped his greatsword further towards the minions. But, as he had done so, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Lesser insects diving themselves as well into whole new creatures, a wave of defeat flowed through him. The numbers were growing. It was ten versus one.


Creatures buzzing about as if they were mocking him, the chimera placed his greatsword in front of him. Spinning the blade like it were some sort of top, the chimera screamed with a fury. These bugs, they had to be stopped. They had to go down, disappear, remove themselves at once.


Monsters slowly running out of ways to divide as their rampage continued, the early adult reached for rocks in the corner. The stones, those were his only chance at victory, for sure. Tossing them one after another, the enemies slid down upon the ground on after another.


Leader bug becoming a pancake, the soldier let himself set sail. Where in the world had these creatures come from? He had never seen them anywhere in Teyvat. Did they only come around when there was a sudden influx of minerals? The hyena did not know, but he did not want to find out.


Taking a deep breath, the soldier readied to head towards the Dihua Marsh. Knowing many more minerals awaited him, the hyena steeled himself for the trip north. Knowing a possible onslaught would soon await him, the chimera dropped courage into his pocket. They were just insects. There was nothing to fear.


As the chimera approached the marsh, his thoughts had begun to race. The abyssal gazelles, this definitely had their name written all over it. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away again. He needed to stop accusing them. Surely, this was merely a natural occurrence of Liyue; it was the nation of Geo, the land of rock.


Reaching Dihua Marsh, the chimera's jaw dropped open at the sight before him. Lakes and water beds completely stoned over, the early adult backed four steps away. What happened here, why was the water all orange? He could hardly contain himself with the inquires flocking by. But, such had not been the end of the oddities.


Spotting diamond and pearl deposits, the soldier titled his head. How was he supposed to cut diamonds? Weren't they the hardest mineral of all time? This was impossible, for sure. But, he supposed he would have no choice but to try. Focusing his attention on the possible orange ice, the soldier's axe was ready and waiting.


Bed of orange rock axed away, the chimera focused his attention on the bed of diamond and pearls in front of him. Minerals refusing to budge for minutes on end, the soldier wiped the sweat off his brow. Diamonds were the hardest mineral in the world, indeed.


Everything eventually removed from their encasing after hours of work, the hyena's face had been bathed in sweat. Pocketing the diamond and pearls, the chimera moved forward. Her Majesty would definitely, without a doubt want a piece of these. Moving along, the soldier prepared himself to head off towards Bishui Plains.


Reaching Stone Gate after an hour of walking, the chimera swore he saw the abyssal gazelles dash on by through the area. But, the early adult shook such off. There was no way. That simply wasn't possible. If they were around, he had no time for them or any of their shenanigans.


As the soldier moved towards Bishui Plains, an entire army of amber awaited him. Knowing that was his cue to start cutting, the cutting kicked into full swing. Readying to unbury the hatchet, the attacks upon the mineral soon began. Chafing away with all his might, the hyena resisted the urge to yell timber for the third time.


Forest boars running out of their amber prison, multiple slammed their bodies into the soldier's hips. Sides stinging as such went down, the early adult clicked his tongue. Was he being roughhoused? The animal kingdom was Not to be messed with, for sure. Continue to cut the minerals, he had soon become a hog magnet.


Soreness laid throughout, the chimera let out a groan. Bishui Plain, a boar's paradise to behold. Moving forward for the time being, the hyena readied himself to step foot into Wuwang Hill. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena prepared himself. Would something scary await him? Now was the time to numb himself to everything.


Reaching the spooky woods of legends galore, ghostly rocks stared at the soldier. Seeing such, the early adult gulped. These boulders, had they always been here? Something had definitely been off about them, for sure. Axe shaking in his hand as he stepped towards them, everything froze.


As the hyena hacked away at the ghastly rocks of terror, a surprise visitor broke through the stone. Seeing such, the chimera's knees buckled. Unusual monster with a transparent layer surrounding it, the hyena swore he could see it smack its translucent lips.


"A chimera? Tasty!" the otherworldly creature exclaimed.


Knowing he had to fight, or he would be eaten, the early adult placed his claymore in front of him. Any minute now, and he would be the ghost's food. He could not allow himself to become food for the former lives. Striking his blade with a fury, the soldier let out a battle cry.


But, no such attack ever came. Blade phasing through the enemy, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Just how dumb was he, trying to attack a ghost with a weapon? There was no way that would work. Had his braincells rotted? He had picked the worst time to walk into stupid town.


Taking a deep breath, the chimera threw down a flower friend. Windwheel Aster friend dancing upon the battlefield, the soldier provided silent command to the plant brought to life by his Dendro Vision. But, such vines phased through the enemy, as well. Seeing such, a wave of uselessness flowed through the hyena.


Nothing doing for minutes on end, the hyena could feel doom loom over him. This monster, was it immune to Dendo, as well? If such were the case, he was done for. Nothing could be done. He was finished, over, a meal for the undead. It was best to surrender, let himself go, be munched on. As such thoughts raced, however, the soldier swore he could hear grunting.


Yaksha dashing onto the scene, the soldier swore he could hear the short banisher of evil scream disappear, boring, useless and many other words in between. Hearing such, the early adult's knees buckles. The mountain demon, had he meant him? He needed to apologize to him for his incompetence right away.


"Get out of here," the yaksha grunted. "I'll banish this evil."


Not wishing to get in the mountain demon's way, the soldier dashed out of Wuwang Hill as if his life depended on it. It was best to not cross the Yaksha while he was banishing evil. Moving back onto the path westward, the early adult prepared himself for the next mineral trip.


Reaching Qingce Village after an hour of walking, the early adult took a deep breath. The amber, could it have already made its way in the area? If such had been the case, he needed to get rid of it as soon as possible. Allow and an inconvenience for the elderly to go unchecked was not on the agenda.


Wise elderly woman soon informing Siorc the minerals he was looking for were in the mountains up north, the early adult prepared himself. The rest of the rocks were not hiding around Qingce Village? Such was a miracle to be had, for sure. Readying to head for the mountains, the chimera braced himself.


Tough minerals awaiting him almost immediately, the hyena's eyes pulsated at the sight before him. Entire mountain encased in amber, the soldier could feel himself about to break into hundreds of pieces. How was this even possible? Inconceivable. There was no way this was cuttable at all.


Axing away for hours on end, the chimera could feel his sweat bathe him deep. Minerals dying in a blinding light, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Why did everything enjoy exploding like this? But, he supposed they could have been bombs disguising themselves as rocks.


Minerals vanishing as if they had never been there, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Did the mountains just cleanse themselves? The Geo Archon, he had to have been lurking right around the corner. But, the hyena knew he was making too many assumptions. Evening sky soon kicking in, the soldier returned back towards the elderly village.


Knowing he had to make haste towards the Jueyun Karst, the chimera had begun to dash south. Reaching the area after about forty minutes of running, the early adult gazed at the competition standing beside the bridge. But, what awaited of the competition were some unfriendly outliers.


Spotting Kelebek and Izzet standing beside the panda chimera, the hyena lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. What had those two been doing here? They most certainly were not here for a fair race. They were definitely up to something sinister, without a doubt. Generic nobodies making up the rest of the participants, the chimera let out a gulp. This was about to be a heated competition, guaranteed. Yínlóng soon turning their head, eyes were on him.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "You're competing, too? Good luck!" But, as he said such, a cackle cracked on through.


"You'll win!" Kelebek shouted, smirking. But, confusion soon looped.


"Me?" Yínlóng asked, point to themself. But, confusion only continued for minutes.


"Nyahaha, you think we met you?" Izzet asked. "We're the ones who shall win this race!"


Yínlóng looking as confused as ever, the soldier shook his head. Placing his fingers into a cross shape, the early adult mouthed off to not mind them. Nod coming his way, an unusual face poked out from the middle of the bridge. Young woman with long purple hair and bonnet, the soldier rose an eyebrow. Why was Yínlóng's boss here?


"There's a lot of faces here," the opera singer said, smiling. "Methinks you're all eager to earn a spot in the opera troupe."


Opera singer reminding everyone the person who made it to Mt. Aocang first would win a spot in the new opera troupe, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. He had been entered into a race for something that he would not have any time for? In the unlikelihood he would win, he knew he would have no choice but to decline such position.


Race soon on, the early adult shook his head. Did Her Majesty even check before entering him into this run? Why was she interested in having him compete in a position for an opera troupe? This had to have been the most ridiculous order he had ever received in his near eight years of being a member of the Fatui.


People zipping past him, the early adult placed his hands upon the ground. What was he doing, allowing himself get distracted? He had to head for Mt. Aocang as fast as possible. Running faster as the seconds unraveled, multiple generic nobodies had been passed by at the speed of a military training regimen.


Outpacing at least eight of the competitors, but not in first place by any stretch of the imagination, the early adult sped up his running speed yet again. Qingyun Peak was almost upon him. He had move faster, swifter, quicker. Speeding by the halfway point, the chimera swore he had been third place.


Such placement had been short lift. Kelebek and Izzet zooming by in the blink of an eye, the early adult attempted to reach the highest speed possible. Barely able to catch up, the early adult swore he could see some sort of machine tied down to their legs, realizing such, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint.


The abyssal gazelles, those cheats.


Speeding up his running speed dialed up past eleven, the early adult let out a scream as his heart beat hard and fast in his chest. There was no way he could let these cheaters reach Mt. Aocang first, no way. This was a running competition, not a robot race. Who did they think they were fooling with their disingenuous tools to speed themselves up?


But, such had been a failure upon many proportions, entire body screaming at him, the early adult could feel his breath become a corpse upon the battlefield. Why had running become so difficult all of a sudden? Huffing and puffing up a storm as Mt. Aocang slowly approached, multiple people soon passed by him.


Attempting to snap himself out of it, the chimera took a long, deep breath. But, such had not been enough, limbs screaming out to him as he kept running swifter, the finish line blurred as he moved forward. But, as he had almost been there, the world spun around him.


Reaching Mt. Aocang after five minutes of running, the soldier's heart practically fell out of his chest as he crossed the finish line. Abyssal gazelles declared the winners, the hyena could feel himself fall backwards. World dimming around him, he swore the saw the hooded strangers smirking. Land of unconsciousness ready to take him away, one final thought cracked the glass.


Cheaters.


***


Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult life. The cycle was a wheel, landing on dead end every single night. Wheel giving itself a spin once more, the unlucky spot had been picked once more. Game always rigged to lose, the night before him had been no different, as well.


Beneath him had been a bed of lava. Seeing such, fear swallowed the soldier whole almost immediately. The dream had already given him a world of terror? Such was not a good sight to be had, for sure. Continuing to fall, the early adult attempted to shift his weightless dream body towards the left.


Unable to move away, even a singular centimeter, the soldier kept falling as if it were his destiny. Magma chamber ready to eat him alive at any given second, the early adult surrendered himself to the Pyro Archon. Murata, was this his punishment from so many years prior for angering her? He supposed he deserved it, if so.


Falling faster as the dream seconds moved onward, the chimera closed his eyes as the simulated sense of heat broke him down into hundreds of pieces. This was it. It was game over. Any second now, and he was about to become volcano food. Becoming as hard as a rock, the early adult accepted his fate.


Clothes melting away faster than the soldier could keep up, the hyena could feel himself burn up. Entire short body nothing but melted flesh, the early adult's dream life flashed before his very eyes. Bone peeking out of his fingers as he breathed his last, one final thought broke through his subconscious.


This was a bad omen for things to come, for sure.


***


"The curse,
Has it come for me yet?
Everything still feels normal,


Could it be it didn't not work?
Unless, it is one that will devour me slowly.
Really, I am quite unsure.
Should I expect my demise any day now?
Everything still feels normal, maybe


I am overthinking. But,
Something tells me


I should still remain on high alert,
That much is key.


How can I be absolutely certain nothing will happen to me?
Everything still feels normal, maybe it'll
Reap what it's about to sow while I am sleeping.
Every moment right now is absolutely terrifying."


Finding himself back in his bed the next morning, a wave of confusion flowed through him. How did he get back to Snezhnaya, who took him here? Agent nowhere to be seen, the young soldier stepped towards the door. Note left for him, the early adult read over it carefully.


Instructions informing him he would need to continue mining, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. He had to cut amber again today? The cycle continued. But, something of peculiar note stuck out upon the sheet of paper. Scribble scrabble informing him he would need to participate in a boxing match, the world stopped turning, for a moment.


He had to do what now, brawl people? There had to be some kind of mistake. Reading the note over again, the hyena blinked. There was no way he had read that correctly. His glasses were on upside down, for sure. Gazing at the words again, they did not change, in the slightest. Giving up, the early adult read the location, for a moment.


Brawling tournament being held in Guyun Stone Forest, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. He supposed he had no choice but to compete. Knowing his chances of wining were close to zero, the hyena removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Liyue Harbor waypoint highlighted, the chimera steeled himself.


Tall brunette informing him upon entry the mineral deposits were in the eastern and western areas in Liyue today, the soldier made haste. Knowing it was in his best interest to head off towards Mingyun Village first, the early adult dashed off towards the bridge on the other side of the harbor.


Speeding through Mt. Tianheng, no surprising returns awaited the soldier. Or, at least the soldier thought. Spotting extremely eerie stones of amber here pussing with gross goop, the early adult held back the urge to turn away. What was going on here today? Something was not right.


Spending over three hours cutting the peculiar crystal the soldier swore he could feel a chill in the air as everything had been cut into hundreds of pieces. But, the soldier snapped himself out of such line of thinking. Why was he letting himself be influenced by such? There was no malice to be had here. But, things had only begun to get worse as he reached Mingyun Village.


Almost completely abandoned area upon him, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Everything here could spout out mold any second if he blinked. Spotting multiple deposits of black crystals in the area, the chimera cracked his knuckles. No more dawdling, it was time to get to work.


Crystals putting up a fight for hours on end, the hyena let out a grunt. What were these minerals made out of, platinum? But, the hyena kept on cutting. Surely, eventually, the gems would break free from their prison. Hacking away for another hour, the chimera let out a shout.


Minerals eventually breaking free, the soldier pocketed the crystals almost immediately. Pockets glowing, for the moment, the early adult slapped the holders. What in the world were these things doing? He would stick out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls like this, for sure.


Covering the crystals up with a sheet of paper, the hyena kept moving forward. Dashing off towards Yaoguang Shoal, a surprise awaited him on the beach. Entire body of water encased in amber, the soldier folded up his jacket sleeves. It was time for rock fishing, round two.


Peculiar mineral deposits layered on top of the icy amber rock, the soldier continued with all his might to hack away at the orange bed in front of him. Eventually breaking on through to the other side after about twenty five attempts, the hyena broke through the odd crystals, as well.


Everything pocketed, the early adult could not help but wonder for the fifth time. The abyssal gazelles, were they responsible for this? If it was them that had done this, they should not have picked something so Liyue like. But, he supposed if they were indeed the ones that unleashed such chaos, they cared not what it was that they let down.


Continuing to chafe away, an entire army of boars had been broken free from their prison. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder again. How did so many creatures get trapped in the amber? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Why was he wasting time thinking about such a thing? He needed to move on.


Heading north for quite awhile, the soldier swore he could feel a tap on his shoulder. Cicin Mage glaring at him, a quiet whisper had been delivered. Told to go to the cave in Sal Terrae, the hyena rose an eyebrow. Why there, of all places? Fish were falling out the sky right about now.


Taking the discarded boat in the corner, the hyena paid a visit to the secret cave in the corner. Spotting pink Cor Lapis, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. Was this what he needed to cut? There was no time to waste, if such were the case. Axe in hand, the cutting soon began.


Every single unusual Cor Lapis cut up and put away, the early adult exited the cave. Figuring it was best to head west for now, the soldier had begun running. Reaching Lingju Pass after about two hours of travelling, the soldier rolled his eyes to the sky at the sight before him. What a surprise, more petrified amber. Color him purple.


Throwing his sarcasm out, the hyena resumed amberjacking. Boars quickly removed from their prison, the creatures made a run for it. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had the unknown culprit been saving all of these animals for dinner? How awful. They had no reason to hoard all these innocent beings for himself. One was enough.


Moving onward to Tianqiu Valley, everything had been exactly the same. Boars freed from their prison, the soldier let out a tired sigh. Had the entire population of hogs been held hostage? He swore he had seen over two hundred of them in the past three days. But, he supposed he was exaggerating the numbers just a little.


As the early adult headed towards Nantianmen, the hyena stared off into space. Had he saved all the boars from entering the garden of eaten? He knew there had to have been something he had done right. Soon reaching the western area the hyena's heart skipped four beats at the sight before him.


Large block of diamond encasing the entire tree near a sealed off area, the soldier's jaw dropped straight open. Who do this to such a beautiful piece of art? Whoever had done this would pay for such a crime against nature. Clenching his, the soldier hacked away harder, and faster with every given second. But what awaited him as the minerals broke was a sight to behold.


Large butterfly almost seven times its size with metallic antennae flapping its wings with arrogant glory, the soldier placed his greatsword in front of him. This robot, who did it think it was, hiding amongst the diamonds? It was going down right here, right now.


Creature decimated after about thirty strikes, the hyena let out a huff. Was it just him, or did this enemy sap his energy away? But, as he caught his breath, another insect soon emerged. Flapping away towards the norther stone forest, the chase was on, in an instant.


Creature soon caught up to within Mt. Hulao, the opponent soon slammed itself against the rocky walls. Creature breaking into hundreds of pieces, the early adult shook his head. This creature, did it not have a mechanical brain? But, he supposed such was a given for inorganic life forms.


Double and triple checking every single area he had visited over the past few days, absolutely no surprises awaited him for hours on end. No more mineral deposits left, daytime soon shifted over to evening. Sky tinted a deep midnight blue, the soldier ceased operation like a certain lady who flied herself to the moon.


Reaching Guyun Stone Forest after about an hour of walking, the Agent awaited the soldier. But, what he had said to him made the chimera do a triple take. Informed this tournament was for visionless people only, the chimera backed two steps away. Why was he participating? He was a vision bearer. There was no way he would be allowed to compete.


Agent demanding he hand over his vision until he was kicked out of the tourney, the early adult sighed. Was this really a good idea, handing over his Vision? His former practice partner had told him to always keep it on his partially human person, no matter what, or strange things would befall him.


Handing the yellow-green orb over, nothing changed. Moving onwards towards the registration booth, a tall woman with long black hair, an eyepatch and scantily clad red outfit was seated at a table in the corner, arms folded on top. Area full of muscular men nobodies, the early adult let out a gulp.


Everyone triple as built as he could ever hope to be, doom loomed over the hyena's shoulder. There was no way he could win against these people. He was less than half their size, for sure. He was a toothpick to them, an easy target. He would be out after round one, for sure.


Spotting an empty vision not lit up, the soldier tiled his head upwards towards the sky. Was this supposed to be prize for winning, a vision without an element? What a worthless piece of junk, who would even want such a thing? But, as he got himself lost in his thoughts, a voice called out to him.


"Kid, take your gloves," the eyepatched woman said. "The show's about ready to start."


Grabbing his gloves, the soldier readied for the worst pummeling of a lifetime. What was the point in trying? These muscular nobodies would beat him to a pulp in a singular second. Eyepatched woman announcing the prize for winning the tournament was a masterless vision, every single person cheered. Hearing such, the early adult crossed his arms around his waist. Did none of the people here have a vision? He supposed he did not blame them for trying to win one that could light up one day, if so.


First opponent giving him a chuckle, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. This man thought he was an easy opponent to knock out of the park, for sure. Placing himself into a fighting stance, the soldier prepared himself. It was time to get ready for a boxing match.


Gifted multiple bruises for minutes on end, the early adult uppercutted towards the enemy. Burly man whining that his punches hurt, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. What was with the sudden theatrics? Absolutely ridiculous behavior. Black and blue marks soon granted to his cheek in kind, the early adult remained focused.


Punches aplently given back to the opponent, the muscular man soon surrendered after ten strikes. Seeing such, the soldier blinked. Did he just win? Impossible, there was no way. But, he supposed he had enough military training over the years to gain a backbone of his own.


Moving onward to the next opponent, the early adult swore the person did not put up a fight at all. Second burly man surrendering after seven uppercuts, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Were his opponents going easy on him because he was small? Absolutely ridiculous. None of this was fair at all.


Breezing through the third, fourth, fifth round and the semi-finals with ease, a wave of irritation flowed through the hyena. These generic nobodies, were they just going easy on him? Who did they think they were? Just because he was far smaller than them all did not mean he was weak. How disgusting. If they were holding back due to the size differences, they were wasting their time with such.


Finals soon upon him, the early adult crossed his arms across his waist. Generic nobody puffing a cigar as he gave him a glare, the soldier swore he could see the man's eyes glow red. Menacing look adorning his face, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. Had he been transported to another world with muscle for brains who only cared about fighting? But, he had soon been brought back to reality as his opponent called out to him.


"All those guys may have gone easy on you 'cause you're a girl," the opponent said as he curled his fingers. "But I ain't gonna do none of that!"


Siorc blinked as the words bounced off his inhuman eardrums. He sees now. All these opponents thought he was a girl. They all went easy on him because of such? How infuriating. Male, or female, what did it matter? He was neither one, nor the other. Why did some men think those perceived as women were weaker than the opposite? What backwards way of thinking. Any woman could fight just as well as any man could. This generic nobody was going down. He was about to show him how wrong he was, for sure.


But such declaration fell flat on his face in a matter of seconds. Big man finding every single one of his weak spots and then some, the soldier had been on the ground in minutes. Hearing a countdown reach zero, the soldier had been defeated. Muscular nobody declared the winner, as he laid down upon the ground, he had soon been picked up on his feet.


Agent shaking his head, the early adult could feel his life ready to fade away. He had lost, Her Majesty was going to be disappointed in him, for sure. He could kiss his life goodbye. Any second now, and he would be sent to the palace, cut to ribbons and discarded of. But, his fears were never realized. Agent sifting through his pockets, for a moment, all the minerals within were grabbed one after another.


"Do not worry about your loss, soldier," the Agent said, shaking his head. "The minerals you have provided make up for you unsatisfactory performance." He then pointed off in the corner. "You are dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya within an hour."


Dismissal granted, the early adult took a deep breath. He supposed now would be a good time to go for a small stroll. Walking towards the cave in the Guyun Stone Forest, the hyena absorbed all the scenery into his very being. But, such moments of joy were killed with a sniper rifle in seconds.


Abyssal gazelles appearing right in front of him, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. These two, what was it that they wanted from him anymore? Hadn't they satisfied with their last stunt? Enough was enough. Surely, their revenge had already been satisfied by now.


The revenge had only just started.


"You've got another gift for him!" Kelebek shouted. As one said such, a large piece of Noctilucous Jade had been lunged towards the hyena.


Jade chucked the soldier's eyes, the early adult's body froze up into immobility. Jade dropping itself inside him, a wave of doom flowed through him. The abyssal gazelles, what did hey just do to him? The Noctiucous Jade, there were two of them inside him now. The poison, was it going to take him away? Words bubbling out of him, he could no longer hold back any inquiries.


"What did you do to me?!" the hyena blurted out. An immediate answer had come his way.


"He'll find out!" Kelebek shouted.


"Nyahaha, you'll see tomorrow!" Izzet shouted. "Enjoy our gift!" As they said such, they were gone.


Heart beating hard and fast in the soldier's chest, the early adult highlighted the waypoint towards the military barracks. Running through the hallways, the soldier reached the soundproof room after about four minutes of running. Walking around in a circle frantically upon immediate entry, the early adult's thoughts sped through him.


Circle about only getting worse, his thoughts continued. The abyssal gazelles, what did they do to him? The Noctilucuous Jade, there had now been two inside him. He would turn into stone, become jadeite, be swallowed whole in no time. The curse was here, it was coming.


Wave of tiredness overtaking the hyena after two hours of pacing, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses set aside, the hyena closed his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. But as the world of tormented dreams invited him back in, one final thought wrapped vines around the soldier.


He's cursed now, without a doubt.

 

[Palamon]

22. Poisson's Treasure, Rock Hydras, Hunting Fairies, Conspiracy

"Why is this
Happening to me?
Ah, no the
Tips of my fingers, they are black.


I don't know what's going on,
Something isn't right.


How could one
A little bad of jade
Poison me?
Partially change me? Is
Everything going to become jadeite?
No, this can't be
I'm scared.
No. I cannot let fear
Get to me.


That is what the gazelles want,
Obviously. Don't let the fear get to


Me. Surely,
Everything will clear away.


It is only temporary.


After all, there is no way
My entire body will become


Stone. Medusas are only fantasy.
Cannot see this
At all being eternal.
Right, don't panic,
Everything will be alright.
Don't panic. Everything


Will be okay. I
Have to keep working
And keep myself going
Time is ticking


Do not worry myself over a little stone
I have a job ahead of me
Do not worry myself over


The tips of my fingers, they are not a
Hindrance. I can move.
Every single one. I


Guess I can try washing it off,
Ah, yes. Stone upon the tips of my fingers you have reached your
Zenith.
Even so, will trying to wash the
Little bit of stone off?
Likely not, but it is worth a try.
Even if it does not work, I
Suppose it is worth a try. If it


Does not, hyena claws
Out. Surely,


The stone does not go
Over my paws, when transformed. But,


Maybe I am overthinking.
Eat my fears away,


Why am I still thinking about this?
Her Majesty will be disappointed in me,
All and all,
This is nothing.
Everything will be fine, their
Vengeance against me will
Evidently fail. I am not
Ripe for the picking.


This will not become a pickle. No matter what
Happens, I mustn't falter.
Even if the stone spreads, I shall not
Yield. Keep going


Don't let them win.
I need to combat this.
Don't let them win.


I need to
Take deep breaths, and not let this


Hinder me.
All of this is just a test of
Something to come.


Be that as it may,
Everything will be fine
Get to work, do not let this stone
Unleash its final form.
Nothing like that can happen


I mustn't let it,


For that is what they want,
Even if it starts hurting, they can't win.
Even if it starts hurting, I can't show pain. I know they're
Listening, lurking, the


Abyssal gazelles are


Still causing problems, so
Even if they're trying to take me out, I must
Not let them.
So, I must remain strong,
Even if they're trying to end me.


Obviously that is key
For successful living.


Do not let them win,
Or I will be a statue. Do not let them win,
Or I will be a goner.
My fight is just starting. Resilience is key."


Dreaming had still been a never ending cycle of anguish within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The loop would reverse and repeat, resetting back to zero as late evening cycled into the late midnight hours. Such pattern was relentless, holding onto dear life without any singular stopping point. The night before him would continue the cycle, as well.


Before him had been a field of Pluie Lotuses beside some stray daffodils beside a lake. Seeing such flowers, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had the dream world taken him to Fontaine this time? Seating himself beside the bed, the early adult let out a blissful sigh. Perhaps, just maybe, nothing bad would happen within the not reality before him.


Dream water soaking his toes, for a moment, the hyena stared off into dream space. Everything had felt so peaceful. Was nothing going to happen within the dream world today? Such had to have been the case, surely. Continuing to let himself settle, nothingness looped on repeat.


Nothing happening for dream hours on end, the dream world laid silent. Everything remaining calm, the soldier let out another blissful sigh. Was torment taking a backseat today? The not reality before him was silent; surely, the peace would remain for the rest of his time in the land of sleep.


Peace was never meant to last.


Hearing a peculiar noise of fluttering, the hyena turned his attention towards the noise. But, what awaited him from afar was a surprise to behold. Spotting green hair and green eyes he'd recognize anywhere, the early adult had to do a quadruple take, for a moment as his observations continued.


Spotting Hase in a peculiar black and brown outfit next to a group of shadow people beside a door, and the Funeral Parlor Director, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Why was she wearing the Wansheng Funeral Parlor uniform? This had to have been some sort of mistake. His subconscious mind was playing tricks on him, for sure.


"Oya oya, so these are the people that have been following you around lately?" the Funeral Parlor Director asked.


"Yes, -- ---," Dream Hase responded. "Can we have their souls depart? They're evil spirits, right?"


Siorc backed three dream steps away upon witnessing such conversation. He was able to hear what Hase was saying? But, his dream mind soon wandered. Where in the world had he been? Had he been transported towards some river in Liyue? But, such subconscious thoughts were swiftly abandoned as the conversation continued.


"Nope. Still alive," the Funeral Parlor Direction responded, sighing. "A pity."


The early adult could hardly believe his ears. Did the director of the funeral parlor just say the unknown people still being alive was a pity? But, such thoughts were cut in half with a sawblade. Shadow people's hands laying themselves down upon Hase, a scream broke out.


Funeral Parlor Director taking out a bright red spear with a fiery tip, the soldier dashed towards the action. The monsters, he had to save Hase from them. Real or not, danger was not welcome. He needed to join in as soon as possible, no matter what. Running towards the battlefield, the soldier prepared himself.


Big mistake, on the hyena's part.


"Chi!" the Funeral Parlor director shouted.


Flaming butterfly soon surrounding the Funeral Parlor Director, the early adult had been caught in the crossfire in a matter of seconds. Flames soon coming his way, the hyena's dream eyes had opened wide. Just how small had the range of the funeral parlor director's attacks have been? But, such was not the end of the flames.


Funeral Parlor Director screaming out her battle cry again, a sea of fire had soon engulfed the soldier. Finding himself lost amongst the sea of flaming butterflies, the chimera's body burned to a crisp, ready for devouring. Attacks continuing to bounce his way as the insects of doom seared him further, his body was charcoal.


Dream body tilting backwards towards the ground, the hyena waved the invisible white flag. Safety had left him behind, torment hugged him from behind, the world of fire was here to stay. Feeling himself ready to expire within the land of the subconscious, one final thought looped on repeat.


Accidents could be lethal.


***


"Am I hearing things correctly? A what now? A


Fairy treasure hunt? Your Majesty,
Are you being serious? This
Is absolutely
Ridiculous. I am hearing things.
You can't possibly be serious right now.


This is a joke, a prank. I
Really cannot fathom this. What
Even is this order?
Am I to seriously believe this is
Something she'd request of me?
Unbelievable. No way, this is
Rubbish. Garbage.
Everything in between.


How could she even ask for something this crude?
Utter garbage.
Nothing makes sense
Today. Is she just making up


Wild orders while she plans something further?
How strange, I'm being left
An order like this?
This fairy treasure hunt,


I don't quite get it. There's absolutely
No way this will matter, for anything.


There are no fairies in Fontaine,
How can she send me on a
Erroneous chase like this


With no golden eggs in sight?
Oh, Your Majesty, you are just making up things, aren't you?
Really smooth of you!
Look, pick something else, a
Different order.


I'll do anything you tell me,


As I have no choice, but listen, Your
Majesty, this one order just doesn't


Cut it. I really don't understand.
Of all things, this one is the most
Nothing of them all. Diplomatic Affairs?
Fine. The Agent takes over anyway.
Unleashing me upon the business affair world?
Sure. The Agent takes over, anyway.
Every single one of these makes more than
Demanding I go on this fairy treasure hunt.


I suppose I do not have a choice. I


Don't have any ability to say no.
Obviously. So, I suppose,


No matter what I have to go
Out and hunt for
These so called 'fairies'.


Ultimately, that is key.
Nothing can be
Done, I have to do
Everything she tells me.
Right, a treasure hunt.
Sure, Your Majesty. Right on
That. Immediately.
All and all, I have to remain obedient and silent,
No matter what.
Diligence is key."


Four days had passed since the hyena had continued his career as the worst phantom of all time. Singular day of business affairs occurring around the Blackcliff Forge, nothing of note happened for twenty-four hours. But, the next three days were far from mundane under any circumstance.


Dealing with rather unusual happenings in Liyue including a strange brawling tournament the soldier had been forcefully roped into, everything had been peculiar. Abyssal gazelles moving forward with their revenge on the third and final day of odd jobs, his fear was high profile.


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steels. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, such was not the only horror that awaited him as he pulled the covers back. Fingertips on his right hand a greyish black, the early adult had begun to shake.


Fingers feeling rocky for a moment, questions shot off one after another. What's happening to him? Why were his fingertips so dark and hard? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Surely, if he were to wash them in a river, the blackness would go away. Returning his focus to work, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the chimera's uniform melted onto his partially human person, the soldier could not help but wonder. The abyssal gazelles, just what did they do to him? The Noctilucous Jade they tossed inside him, how far had it travelled? But, the hyena shook his head. There was no way he'd ever know.


As the early adult snapped his buttons shut, a thought threw itself into the mix. Would transforming his human hands into hyena paws erase the current from existence? Light bulb glowing above him, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Surely, that had to work.


Greyish black remaining on his paws, as well, an overwhelming sense of doom loomed over the chimera. Was there no escape from the stony darkness? Closing his eyes once more, his hyena paws returned to human form. Returning his focus towards the getting ready, the early adult removed the cover off his jewelry and accessory box.


Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching blue stars adorned his hair and ears. But, no wave of calmness flowed through him. Unease swallowing him whole for minutes on end, the doom chime tolled. Rapidly shaking his head, the chimera kept his attention forward. He had to keep getting ready. There was no time for this.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the countless questions kept coming back to haunt him. What was going to happen to him? He could not help but fell an intense wave of terror flow through him. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it once more. Enough was enough. No more doom and gloom.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the hyena took a long, deep breath. Everything will be fine. Absolutely nothing would happen to him. Surely, if he washed his hands by a river, the stone upon him would go away. Right, his digits were merely dirty. A nice clean would fix that, guaranteed.


Hearing the louder than ever before sound of militaristic boots marching about with a militaristic beat, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. There was no more time for thinking about any of this, whatsoever. He was about to be on the nonexistent clock. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his face towards the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be engaging in a fairy treasure around Poisson today." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "Collect the dust they trail behind, and grab any treasure from chests they might fly towards." Another day, another distraction.


The chimera jumped five steps back. Was he hallucinating? Did he really just hear the words that came out from underneath the Agent's mask correctly? A treasure hunt? No way, he was hearing things. There had to have been stone inside his eardrums blocking sound out.


The hyena turned his head towards the steel walls. A treasure hunt, really? How in the world was that a job? There was absolutely no way the Agent was being serious right now. Was he trying to play some kind of joke on him to get him on the top of his toes? That had to have been it, surely.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be hunting fairies in Fontaine!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "Stop dawdling, and get a move on!"


The chimera flinched. Right, it didn't matter. A job was a job, and he had to do it no matter what. Taking a long, deep breath, the early adult placed his hand in front of him. There was no more time to be thinking about these things whatsoever. He had a treasure hunt to get to.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Serious or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter. But, as the Agent readied to grip him into a lock, an invasive question came his way.


"What happened to your fingers, soldier?" the Agent asked.


Question stinging him in the back, sweat poured down the hyena's backside. Why in the world was the Agent asking him about his fingers? Weren't questions forbidden of the Fatui? There was no way he would answer such a thing. Perhaps, just maybe, if he gave an untruthful answer in return, the subject would drop down on the floor like a hot potato.


"Nothing, sir!" the hyena exclaimed, eyebrows twitching. "I burned them while working yesterday!" He let out a fake laugh. "Isn't it time to go? It would be shame if we were late."


The Agent rose an eyebrow underneath his mask. Why was he dodging the subject? But, it was best to not press on about such if he did not wish to answer. "Alright, then soldier, if you insist," the Agent responded. "Let's go." Wrist gripped into a slightly less tight squeeze than normal, the chimera closed his eyes. As the escort soon began, a thought threw a pebble around in the hyena's mind.


He needed to buy gloves.


***


"Yay, yay, yay, I saw
Another little fairy fly by today!
Yay! I think they want


A treasure hunt! Ooooooooooooooooh,


That's so much fun!! I'm
Ready to go collect some doubloons!
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh, I should tell Sissie
And sisser! And Captain Vert!
Surely, they'll approve of these fun times!
Up I go! I will
Relay the message to them!
Ehehe. Ah!


Huh, right, they're still working today!
Ugh, and sisser's pet is watching me! I'm
Not allowed to leave
Today! Guess I'll have


To wait until later!
Hours pass,
And now, it's bedtime!
Tomorrow, it is!


It's tomorrow now!
So, today, it's time to hunt


Some treasure!
Oooooooooooooooooooooooh, I am so excited!


My hunt will be so awesome!
Ugh, they're still sleeping?
Come on, sissie, sisser, wake up!!
Hah, how much longer? I'm itching for a


Fun day! I'll just to sit and wait.
Until they wake up!
Noooo, that'll be forever!! But, patience, Aigre!!"


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Not feeling anything out of the ordinary, a wave of relief washed over the soldier. But, such thoughts were immediately cut short as the chimera had been dragged down the hill.


Boat summoned like always, the early adult had been placed in the vessel. Air pressing against his cheeks, the hyena stared off into space. Why was it so nice out today? But, he supposed he was overthinking it. Vessel soon cruising forward, the chimera kept himself focused.


As the vehicle of human movement kept pushing onward, the hyena could not help but ponder. Why of all orders, did he have to go on a treasure hunt? He did not quite understand this order, under any circumstances. But, he supposed it was some sort of distraction for what was about to come.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor after about fifteen minutes, the soldier had been dragged towards the stairs, like usual. Knowing he was about to hear the same infuriating lines, as usual, the chimera braced himself for the annoyance about to come his way any given second.


Agent informing him what felt like the octillionth time that he was not allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the sky. Anything else obvious that needed to be stated? The sky was blue? Fish could swim? He was quite tired of hearing the same nonsense over and over again.


Satchel soon slammed onto his backside with a loud thud, more useless information had soon come his way. Told he would need to head for Palais Mermonia to gather more information involving the fairies, the early adult nodded. He had to head for the Iudex's office again? How peculiar.


Subordinate soon gone, a commotion had begun to gather around the harbor. Multiple generic nobodies formed a gigantic crowd around the area. Seeing such, a puzzle piece dropped down onto the ground. What were all these people doing here all of a sudden? But, his question had soon been answered.


Hearing a very familiar haughty laugh, the chimera crooked his head upward. Hydro Archon standing high up above on a platform, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why did she enjoy being in such high places all the time? Did she think the entire world was beneath her? Eyes on her audience, she soon announced herself.


"My lovely people, I have shown you to myself today!" the Hydro Archon exclaimed, hands in the air. "You may all rejoice in this!"


Multiple citizens cheering the last case was amazing, the soldier shook his head. Was that legal battle against the blonde person still ongoing? Just how many more times was she going to brag about such accomplishment? But, he supposed some legal battles had more than one part to them.


Knowing he had to head for the Aquabus station right away, the chimera ascended the staircase. Knowing he had to proceed with utmost caution today, the early adult stepped upon the glass lift. But, as he kept moving forward, a crowd engulfed everything. Long line stretching from right near the elevator, the hyena placed himself in the back of the wait.


Aquabus arriving almost immediately, everyone barreled on one after another. Melusine screaming one at a time, not a single person listened. Seating himself on the floor of the vessel as each and every seat had been taken, chatter filled the rows, the early adult attempted to tune everyone out.


As the vessel of automatic movement droned past the Poisson Tunnel, the chimera could not help but wonder. The Hydro Archon, why did something feel different from her than other regional gods? He did not know why, but she had something about her that felt quite off.


But, the chimera shook his head. She just had a flamboyant personality with a lot of bravado. Surely, there were other gods that were exactly the same. But, his thoughts were cut off as the chatter about the most recent epic court battle drowned his thoughts out to sea.


As the capital city awaited, the early adult could not help but wonder once again. The Hydro Archon, could she have been nothing more than just a celebrity? She had done nothing about the current constant cycle of crisis occurring throughout the region. But, the early adult tossed such thoughts out of the boat. Why we he questioning the region's deities existence? He needed to stop.


Crowd in front of him exiting the boat all in a flurry, everyone was soon gone. Readying himself to head for the Palais Mermonia, the chimera removed himself from the vessel, as well. Everything growing quiet as quickly as it had been loud, the soldier prepared himself to head towards the information station.


But, as the early adult had begun to step through the streets, something of peculiar note caught the early adult off guard. Spotting a kamera off in the distance and hearing shouted words like action, cut, do it again, the chimera tilted his head. Had there been a movie shoot in the city? Why today, of all days?


Kamera getting closer with every step as he walked through the northern streets, the soldier attempted with all his might to try avoid stepping near such device. Knowing that, at any given moment, he would be caught in one-hundred-forty-four-p, the early adult lowered his walk into a tiptoe. Surely, if he walked slower, he would be able to avoid the obstacle easier.


Adventurer Guild receptionist stating she had been rebooting as she laid still behind the counter, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just what kind of meka was she? Those mechanical clones of her he had come across in recent times, were they related?


But, the early adult pushed such thoughts away as he kept moving. What was he doing? If he kept getting lost in thought, he would be caught directly in front of the obstacle he was actively trying to avoid. Turning his thoughts off, the hyena kept pushing forward.


Multiple citizens complaining that this shoot in the city is taking too much time, the soldier tilted his head. Had this been going on for hours? Some people were quite the busy creatives. Citizens going about their walks, however, the lens from afar continued to be avoided.


But, such avoidance of the lens had only gotten harder. Spotting an entire row of kameras the hyena grit his teeth. Why were there so many? Hadn't one been enough? But, he supposed he did not understand enough about technology to comment. Attempting with all his might to walk behind them, the soldier steeled himself.


Such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Lens spotlighting him as he walked around it, a face he did not wish to see cast its bewitching eyes of irritancy on him. Kaiser adorning a very fancy dress acting like he was Teyvat's Top Model, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left.


Spotting the owner of Chioriya boutique looking especially unamused by his entrance onto the streets, the hyena let out a gulp. He had gotten in the way, he was about to get an earful for sure. But, the soldier could not help but question as eyes laid upon him. Why were the pesky penguin and she working together? Hadn't they been business rivals? But such thoughts were closed out as if he were hit by a rock.


"You ruined my beautiful photo shoot!" Kaiser shouted, squeaking. "How could you!"


"We'll have to restart it," the Chioriya Boutique owner said, moving her right hand outward.


Giving the duo an apology, the soldier dashed off towards the western street. Why was Kaiser doing a photoshoot now, of all times? How incredibly annoying. There was no way he would be able to reach Palais Mermonia any quicker if the entire street was his domain.


Seeing even more kameras off in the distance, the chimera let out a sigh. Who else was recording something in the capital city today? Weren't there rules about blocking street traffic? There had to have been. But, he supposed it was best to just keep attempting to avoid everything as much as possible. Perhaps, just maybe, the further he went, the less kameras there'd be.


But, as he continue onward throughout the western streets, such had been far from being the case. Spotting Baron and Malika many meters away performing their own sort of photo shoot, the hyena held back the urge to groan. Why was it that wherever he were to walk today, the penguins were everywhere?


Knowing he had to try his best to avoid the spotlight, the chimera attempted with all his might to lower his walk into a tiptoe. Surely, if he were to step around the device, he would not be caught on any sort of tape. Trying to step behind it once more, the hyena approached slowly.


But such had once again been a failure. Surprise kamera from behind shining upon him, the soldier let out a yelp. Did there really need to be so many devices for the sole purpose of catching shots on film? This was quite ridiculous. They only needed one. Technology was baffling.


Baron's eyes soon on him, the early adult held back to urge to slap his palm across his forehead. Was he going to receive yet another unsolicited lecture from them? Whatever it was they were about to say to them, they could save it. He could not care less what they were about to say.


"Could you not?" Baron asked, irritated. "We're shooting something here, don't you see?" But Malika soon added her two mora coins.


"Darling, it's fine, we're not using this take, anyway," Malika replied, shaking her head. As she said such, she covered each and every kamera with a stopper. "There's too much sunlight."


"That's the third time you've said that now," Baron responded, deadpan. "How will anyone be able to see your products in this video if it's too dark? Isn't it unrealistic to expect the light to be accurate?"


The early adult titled his head towards the sky. Just what was going on here today? Why were there so many photoshoots going on all at the same time? Was there some sort of competition split between the Chioriya and Congele boutiques? How unusual for Kaiser to come out on the other side, if such were the case.


Putting a pin in such thoughts, the early adult kept heading towards the southern streets. What did any of this matter to him, anyway? He had nothing to do with any of this whatsoever. He needed to stop getting himself caught up in thoughts about unrelated things.


Attempting to speed his walking up a smidgeon, the early adult groaned as he readied to head near the Aquabus Information Station spotting even more kameras up ahead, the soldier let out a deep throated groan. Was this lens nightmare ever going to end? Who else could have possibly been performing a photoshoot now?


Reaching the area near the fountain, the chimera let out an even deeper groan. Earl parading around dual kameras, a wave of annoyance flowed through him. Why was he doing one, as well? He had hit a triple whammy on inconveniences today. He needed to avoid the worst of the obstacles, at all costs.


But, such was absolutely impossible. Entire area filled to the brim with lenses galore, the hyena surrendered himself to the footage underworld. Earl with an annoyed look on his face, the hyena braced himself for impact. This was it, it was over. The pesky penguin's grating voice will bite his ear off.


"Excuse me! I'm filming something!" Earl exclaimed, annoyed.


But, as Earl turned his head towards the annoying person, everything deep within him changed course almost immediately. Siorc was the one stepping in front of his kameras? He can ruin his photoshoot any time. Maybe he could invite him to join in? He could feel their future wedding photo right about now.


"Oh, hi, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Didn't see you there!" He let out a giggle. "You'd be the perfect model for my shoot! You should join me!"


The early adult's eyebrows twitched. Join the pesky penguin on his photo shoot? Absolutely not. He didn't have time for this sort of thing. But, he knew he should not be rude. Wouldn't telling him no hurt his feelings? He supposed he could let him off gently and give him the closed window of eventually.


"Next time, sir," the hyena responded, back turning. But, he knew he had made a huge mistake using such words.


"Great, I'll let Malika know!" Earl exclaimed.


Holding back the urge to shake his head, the chimera stepped inside the Aquabus Information Station. Heading towards the glass lift in an instant, the hyena stepped inside. Pressing the button for the fourth floor, the soldier waited for the glass box to reach its destination.


Destination soon upon him, the soldier exited the building. Readying himself to move towards the Palais Mermonia, the hyena took a long, deep breath. What kind of information was about to await him when he stepped inside the Iudex's office? He did not know why, but a heavy sense of doom flowed through him.


Melusine at the counter saying the Iudex was expecting him, the early adult blinked. Why did he feel like he had been told that far more often lately? Stepping inside the office, expectant eyes were immediately on him. Seating himself upon the couch, the most important man in Fontaine soon set his paperwork aside, for a moment.


"You are dealing with the fairies around the Belleau Region, no?" the Iudex asked.


Hearing such a question, the early adult could not help but notice the heavy sense of exaggeration used around the word fairies. The Iudex, was he being sarcastic? But, the young soldier threw such thoughts out the window. There was absolutely no way. The Chief Justice was a serious man. Giving him a nod, he soon continued.


"Those 'fairies' are not what they might seem," the Iudex said, shaking his head firmly. "They might get hostile and attack you. Proceed with the utmost of caution."


The early adult's legs shook with a fervor. Why did everything have to always be hostile? He did not quite understand this at all. Couldn't there ever be anything that didn't have the possibility of turning out violent? But, he supposed he should have been used to this by now. Such was the life as a member of the Fatui.


Iudex handing him a rather peculiar looking claymore as a defense tool, the early adult bowed a thank you. Knowing it was time to head back towards the Aquabus, the chimera descended back towards the first floor. Dodging the kameras with all his might, the chimera returned towards the Aquabus station.


As the Aquabus headed off towards the halfway point, he could not help but think. These fairies, they had the abyssal gazelles written all over them. Did these two ever know when to quit? Hadn't they been satisfied enough at this point? But, he supposed evil never sleeps.


Reaching the halfway point at breakneck speed, the early adult jumped off the ledge, like always. Knowing it was go time, the chimera placed his stoning hands upon the ground. Seeing a strange round blue fairy with what appeared to be rabbit ears a cape flying by, the hyena was off to the races. It was time to collect some dust.


Finding a small mason jar in his satchel, the early adult placed the object on the side of his pocket. But, immediately upon placing such object upon his belt, the creature made a fly for it. Creature heading for the beach, the hyena's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Had he been spotted? He needed to catch the creature right away.


As the fairy headed towards the beach, the young soldier let out a scream as he sprinted forward. Why was it already flying away? Did these fairies have some sort of people sensor that scared them? Absolutely ridiculous. He was not out to harm them. He needed to catch up and get their dust right away.


Round creature zipping by the beach, the hyena kept the chase going. Why was it still flying so quickly? Hadn't there been certain types of fairies in Teyvat that acted as guides to adventurers? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. That was merely a story from his stolen childhood. Not all myths and legends were reality.


Fairy zipping around in a circle upon the beach near the water, the soldier blinked. What was this creature doing? Why was it circling the ocean nearby? But, it soon dashed out of the area. Resuming his dash about, the early adult held back the urge to snap his fingers. Was this fairy messing with him?


Sprinting out of the beach, the fairy let out a dust cloud as its flight of fancy only got quicker. Seeing such, the hyena let out a howl. This creature was definitely messing with him. If it was a race that it wanted, it was a race that it would get. Placing his hands upon the road once more, he brushed his currently human leg on the ground as if he were one of the missing horses in Mondstadt.


But, the opponent did not take kindly to such challenge. Creature speeding up even further, the early adult swore he could hear the fairy say it's going to win. But, the early shook his head. No way it just said that. He was hearing things. Fae creature only getting further away, the soldier sped up his running speed.


As the chimera stomped on through the west slopes, the fairy would not let up the chase even for a second. Realizing such, the hyena could not help but wonder. Did it not want its dust taken from him? He supposed he understood such, but he needed to gather it, no matter what. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.


Clawing his way through the west slopes for minutes on end, the opponent in the chase ahead picked up the pace even further. Breath dying as he kept sprinting, the early adult halted his movement, for a moment. Panting up a storm, the chimera performed his breathing exercises, for a moment.


Getting back into gear, the hyena kept the chase going. This fairy, he would collect its dust and gather its spoils of war even if he had to beg for it. Poisson getting closer and closer with every sprint ahead, the soldier shouted. He would catch this fairy. The dust would be his, for the taking.


Fae creature zipping around in a circle as the west slopes were further left behind, the hyena reversed the position of his legs. Perhaps, just maybe, if he ran towards a ledge, it wouldn't know what hit it. Resolute on his decision, the chimera adjusted his movement.


But, such had been an utter failure. Fairy seeing his ploy from a kilometer away, the soldier's jaw dropped open. What was this creature, psychic? What a formidable opponent, indeed. But, the soldier would not give up hope. The boat, surely, if he ran towards the boat in the corner, it would be caught in a trap.


Such had been a failure, as well. Fairy not flying near the inactive vehicle, either, the hyena snapped his fingers. This creature was far too smart for him. He was outmatched, bamboozled, one upped. Creature flying around the boat, the soldier swore the fae creature blew a raspberry at him.


Creature not letting up the chase, the chimera headed off towards Poisson. Surely, it would get tired eventually. It had to have barely any energy left. Chase opponent lowering itself towards him, a shocking sight to behold soon played out in front of the hyena's very mismatched eyes.


Fairy flying off towards Aigre, the hyena halted his run, for a moment. Why was it running towards the childish sea lion, or mermaid, rather? But, he supposed mermaids had their ways of bewitching other creatures. But, the early adult popped such thought with a pin. What was he thinking? There was no way she had the power to do such a thing.


"Yay!! A fairy!!" Aigre exclaimed. She then turned towards sissie, sisser and their boss. "See, sissie, sisser and boss lady, I told you there were fairies!!"


The hyena blinked of bewilderment as the fairy sat in Aigre's hands all docile. What in the world was going on here. Why did the fae creature let itself be caught by her so easily? Bain and Kali shaking their heads at one another, the chimera did so in tandem. Had they had enough of their sister's constant shenanigans? He supposed he didn't blame them.


Demoiselle placing her hands on her chin as she pondered something for a moment, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why had she always been in Poisson? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. It was none of his business under any circumstance. He needed to stop letting his mind wander. But, an inquiry soon brought him back to Teyvat.


"There was a treasure hunt, right?" the Demoiselle asked.


"You mean the one the adventurer's guild posted, -----?" Bain asked. A name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it.


"Um, what treasure hunt?" Kali asked, eyebrows rose. But, chaos soon broke.


Seeing Mauve holding a jar against his belt, Aigre's face beamed like the sunlight. Was Mauve going on a treasure hunt, too? He needed to go with her! Eight eyes were better than four. This was a match made in Celestia. It was time to go on a treasure hunt with her crewmate!


"Yay, treasure hunt!" Aigre cheered. She then grabbed Mauve's hand. "C'mon Mauve, let's go!!"


Aigre dragging him towards the ladder, the hyena let out a sigh. No matter how many times he were to be in Poisson, the youngest sea lion sister, or mermaid, rather, would drag him down into all her shenanigans. But, he supposed he already had to hunt for treasure anyway, he may as well just go with the flow. But, as he had been dragged along, feet chased after them.


"Aigre, stop!" Bain exclaimed, huffing. "Don't get a stranger you barely know involved in your games!"


"Aigre, he um, has better things to do, I think!" Kali shouted, huffing. "Please, um, let go of his hand!"


"He's looking too, sissie and sisser!" Aigre called back. "It's fine!"


The hyena let out a sigh. He knew that if he let go of Aigre's hand, she would probably make a scene. He knew, he could not allow for such to happen under any circumstance. Placing his free hand out in front of him as he turned his head back, he curled his fingers into an okay symbol. Sea lion sisters shrugging in unison, the group moved forward.


Aigre saying Monsieur Azul would give up some of his dust before they chased after his friends, the soldier opened up his jar. Glittery nonsense dropping down into the container, sweat poured down the chimera's back. Was this thing a glitter eater? How peculiar. Closing the lid, the group was off to the races.


Spotting another fairy off in the distance, everyone had begun running. Fae creature flying off like the last one, the soldier let go of Aigre's palm. He had to chase it before it got too far away, without question. Legs breaking off into a sprint, the soldier let out a battle cry.


Creature looking ready to fly towards the West Slopes, the chimera prepared himself for the run of a lifetime. Why did these creatures like flying away so quickly? The Iudex had to have been wrong about them being not what they seemed. They were just a nuisance.


Hearing Kali from behind him ask why are they moving so fast, the early adult could not help but agree with such inquiry. Why had they been moving so quickly? But, he supposed the creatures just did not wish to be caught under any circumstance. But, he knew it would be caught eventually.


Quartet getting closer towards the West Slopes with every single step, the creature soon flew around in a circle. Seeing such the hyena readied for action. Was it slowing itself down? Now was the time to make his move. Placing himself on the ground, the chimera prepared himself to roll around into a ball like a certain blue hedgehog from another universe.


But, such action never came. Aigre getting a running head start, he swore he could hear her tell the fairy to come over to them. Fae creature being surprisingly obedient, the hyena's eyes opened wide. Did she have some sort of magic powers over small beings? Chase opponent immediately tamed and flying towards him, the mermaid's alluring voice kicked in.


"Okay, Monsieur Bleu, put the dusty in Mauve's jarry!" Aigre said to the fairy.


Fairy surprisingly obeying Aigre's every command, the soldier backed six steps away as golden dust had been dropped into his mason jar. Did Aigre and these creatures have some sort of special connection with one another? The pirate's life was quite the unusual one, for sure. But, as the creature finished its dusting, something came up from underneath the dirt.


Treasure chest popping out of nowhere, the chimera jumped six further steps back. Where in the world had this trove come from? Walking towards it, the hyena opened up the container. Spotting rusty old coins alongside a robotic core, the hyena tilted his head in bewilderment. When did this get here, and how? Was the fairy a compass, or something?


Knowing Her Majesty would rather have the robotic core over the worthless pieces of copper, the soldier placed the treasure in his satchel. Aigre telling her invisible pirate crew she had found doubloons, they had been scooped up into her pockets. Blue fairy soon flying off towards the distance as the trove vanished, another soon appeared out of nowhere.


Fae creature flying off towards the south, everyone had sped up their running. But, as everyone had done so, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why did these fairies enjoy being chased so much? He could not help but feel the warning he had received many hours prior had fallen on deaf ears. There was absolutely nothing hostile about these race opponents whatsoever.


Opponent looking like it was heading off towards the beach, the soldier swore he could hear Bain tell Kali to prepare themselves to transform at any given moment. Hearing such, the early adult prepared himself to dive down to the ocean below. Fairies could go underwater? He was definitely in trouble, if such were the case.


Aigre picking up more speed as she ran, Bain and Kali sped up towards her. Seeing them tell her to slow down, the fairy isn't going anywhere, the soldier broke out into a sweat. What would happen if it did go somewhere? But, he knew they were just saying that to attempt at quelling her.


Beach getting closer with every single step, the soldier picked up the pace. But, as he kept running, questions flowed through him. Why did Her Majesty need this useless gold dust for, anyway? But, he supposed that was her problem. He knew he wasn't allowed to question Her Majesty's orders.


Reaching the beach, the soldier swore he could hear static coming from the fairy. Hearing such, a wave of bewilderment flowed through him. What was that he heard just now? He had to have been hearing things. But, such tricks had only continued as an unknown voice played out upon the sands.


"Kids, why are you chasing me?!" the fairy asked. Its voice was very grizzly.


"We're on a fairy treasure hunt!" Aigre called out with naivety.


"You what?!" the fairy asked with disgust. But, static soon kicked in.


"Play along!" a very faint voice cried underneath static.


Siorc scratched his ears for a moment. Did the fairy just talk, or was he in a daydream? He could have sworn he had heard another voice on top of such. But, he supposed he heard youkai talking the other day, faceless fairies with capes being able to talk as well wasn't too farfetched.


"Ugh, fine!" the fairy shouted. It then turned its eyeless head. "You, there, open up your jar and I'll give you my dust!"


Fairy acting as if it was demanding him to open the lid up, the soldier did as instructed. Creature breathing nasty choice words under its breath as it laid down its golden dust inside his jar, the hyena held back the urge to drop his jaw open. What an incredibly rude creature. Was it that much of a bother to drop down the golden particles?


Chest appearing as the fae creature flew off into the distance, Aigre soon looted the dough. Everything collected, a surprise kicked itself up into overdrive. Multiple fairies colored pink, green, yellow and purple flying off towards the eastern direction, everyone had begun the chase.


Creatures only getting faster as the hyena attempted to approach them, the chimera could feel a target painted upon his back. Why were they flying away quicker upon him coming near them? Were his stoned fingers a magnet with only negative poles that drove creatures away from him?


Fairy trail getting longer the further east the quartet went, the soldier blinked. When had there been more of them? Did these fae creatures have the ability to multiply? But, the early adult threw such thoughts out the door. They were not insects. Perhaps, just maybe, more were hiding.


Dashing through the east slopes, the trail did not grow in numbers for several minutes. Aigre calling out to the fairies to wait for her, she sped up her walking speed. Army of creatures flying slower as she said such, the soldier attempted to catch up as the young lady's calls kept on going. Eventually catching up, the army stopped.


But, such quick halt of movement led to a disaster. Metallic barricade popping out from underneath the ground, the soldier could feel himself being pulled towards it. Fairy army soon laughing, the door soon shut on him. Lock shackled on, another surprise soon awaited.


Fairies soon wiggling their ears, a hare monster that looked like a night creature soon appeared. Seeing such, the hyena's eyes opened wide. What did this creature just do?! Banging on the cage, the shut door rattled. Creatures crying out if he wants to get out, their friends have to be beat first, the soldier slumped down onto the ground. He was a prisoner of the fairy wars, a hostage of the fae. He was doomed.


"Meanies!" Aigre cried.


Aigre taking out her scythe, the hare monster had soon been cut to ribbons. Bain and Kali cleaning up the mess as they joined in, the hyena removed his glasses. Was such combat necessary? But, it was not fair to judge how other people fought. Cage soon opening, the early adult crawled out from his temporary imprisonment.


Entire army of chase opponents soon admitting defeat an entire sea of dust had been added to the soldier's jar. Troves of robotic cores and coins collected, as well, the chimera gazed at the container, for a moment. Jar about halfway full, he shook it, for a moment.


Spotting some creatures flying off towards the eastern island in the corner, more questions arose within the soldier's mind. These creatures, could they even swim? He did not know why, but they did not look like they were able to traverse water very well. Would this chase even be worth it?


Singular fairy flying over the water, Aigre soon transformed. Swimming across the lake without any effort, the soldier clicked his tongue. How unfair, she was going to swim across? But, he threw such thoughts away. She was a semi aquatic chimera. He needed to let it go.


Bain and Kali swimming ahead, as well, the early adult placed his heelless shoes in the water. He supposed he had no choice but to hop across. Fairy flying around a circle once more, the chimera had begun his submerged leap of faith. Surely, this game of chase would soon end.


Aigre able to tame the fairy for what felt like the tenth time today, most dust had been added to his collection. Creature flying shortly after, the soldier blinked. How was she still able to do all this like it was absolutely nothing? Whatever power she had, it was beyond his recognition. But, as he kept thinking to himself, a voice brought him back to reality.


"The last treasure is underwater!" Aigre cried, pointing. "Let's go!"


Aigre diving as soon as she said such, the soldier sifted through his bag, for a moment. Removing his diving equipment, the hyena prepared to be absorbed into his fat suit of blubber. Commotion kicking up in speed as he had done so, the chimera turned his head towards the cacophony.


"Aigre, slow down a little!" Bain shouted.


"Um, Bain? She's already gone?" Kali said in a questioning tone.


"We have to catch to her!" Bain shouted. She then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, sorry! We're going ahead!"


Sea lion sisters diving downward, the soldier shook his head. It was only treasure. What was the worst that could happen? But, he supposed it was better to be safe than sorry. Everything on, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind and suit synced up, he took the drop downward towards the seabed below.


Sea lion trio already quite far ahead of him, the early adult had the diving suit thrust him westward on turbo mode. How could they have already swam so far away? But, he supposed those who had natural capabilities in the water world saw their speed as completely normal.


Party of three heading off towards Salaica Plain, the chimera pressed harder on the turbo button, jet stream kicking up speed, the early adult held back the urge to scream. His suit had been going too fast, he had to have been making far too much noise. The fish were definitely disturbed right about now.


Soon catching up to the sibling trio, Bain shook her head back and forth. Soon told he didn't have to try so hard to catch up, they would have waited for him either way, a fairy soon came out of hiding. Bain soon halting her words as Aigre dashed off again, another chase soon began.


Creature swimming away on the stream, the early adult attempted with all his might to have the diving suit thrust him towards it. But, such had soon proven to be difficult as he kept going. Whiffing up a rancid scent upon the water, the chimera's breath grew tight. Where had this nasty stench come from all of a sudden? Had the frog chimera been out of Annaipausis again? But, the early adult threw such thought towards a window. It was rude to jump to such conclusions and assume things.


Peculiar metallic trail of bubbles appearing behind the fairy, a wave of suspicion flowed through the soldier. What was this creature? He couldn't help but recall what the Iudex said: the fairies were not what they seemed. This one, could it be one of those forest boar's in Hilichurl's clothing? He needed to prepare himself for anything that was about to happen.


But, such chase up north had been halted by a sight he did not wish to see. Undersea penguin duo swimming onto the scene towards the Thalatta Submarine Canyon passageway, the soldier steeled himself for violence to be awarded to him for his presence underwater.


Seeing Ritchie Rich bewitch those annoying sea lions from the surface world and bring down a fake little Seelie to boot, Vidame was seeing red. How dare this fiendish villain think he can bring down his dirty little minions down here. His faux fairy creature was not welcome down here, and neither was he. It was time to once again remind him he wasn't allowed down here.


Watching as Ritchie Rich swimming across the water bed playing games with his stupid little fake robot fairy pal, Domini was about to let loose all of his pent up rage and then some. How dare Ritchie Ritch think he can bring down even more of his pollutants down here with him. He'll pay for such disgusting crimes.


"Ritchie Rich, how dare you bring down your disgusting garbage down here!" Vidame screeched. "You'll pay!"


Hearing Vidame's words, the early adult tilted his head towards the seabed ceiling. What in the world was this angry penguin talking about? What garbage? If they meant him, he would not stand for such. But, he knew that was not what they meant. Turning his head for a moment, he gazed at the fairy in the corner.


The thorn in his side, did she mean the fairy? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. It was not his garbage. It had floated down here itself. But, he knew it wasn't worth wasting his breath over. He wasn't about to let them attack him today for something he did not do.


"Idiot Ritchie Rich!" Domini shouted. "Helooooooooooo, it's right next to you! That trash over there!" He pointed his flippers towards the fairy. "That little fake fairy of yours! It's a fraud! How dare you bring that toxic waste down here!"


Hearing the words toxic waste, the hyena scratched his head. These two, were they messing with him? He knew they both despised him with all their being, but if this was a joke to have him meet his end, this was going too far. But, such thoughts were wishful thinking.


Blinding light soon engulfing the fairy, a transformation took place before everyone's very eyes. Meka oozing out poisons aplenty, the rancid scent had become tenfold. Lungs tightening up as the scent only got stronger, a battle broke out from around him. But, his participation immediately rescinded.


Oxygen levels dropping, the world around the soldier spun. His air tank, had Domini punctured it? Stench overtaking him, the soldier's view in front of him soon turned black. Gasping for breaths as he fell backwards, the land of unconsciousness took the soldier away. Everything going silent and dark, one last thought took the hyena away.


What was that horrible stench?


***


Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The cycle would loop and repeat, flipflopping itself over the rewind and fast forward in constant motion as the evening slipped into the later hours. The night before him would only continue the torment fourfold.


Before him had been the basket of a hot air balloon. Floating away on the wind, the soldier could not help but wonder. Where in the dream world could he have been this time? He had never been airborne in a balloon before. What was going on? But, there was no room for answers in the land of the subconscious.


Hearing a loud boom, the hyena turned his attention towards the simulated noise. What was that just now, where did that racket just come from? But what awaited him was a sight of horror. Hilichurls in a balloon adjacent to his with cannonballs aboard, the chimera's dream body had become as hard as rock.


Hilichurl lighting up the wick underneath, doom loomed over the soldier. It was already over, he was about to become a victim of the sky any dream second now. He was toast, cooked, done for. Flaming ball of doom coming towards the vehicle's head, the soldier prepared himself for his dream life to be extinguished once more.


Flaming ball decimating the balloon within seconds, the basket fell backwards. Removed from the shelter within seconds, the hyena let out a scream. Had he been transported into a hot air balloon warzone? He had lost the battle, the game, everything. Hilichurls soon getting their crossbows ready, the one sided fight kicked into overdrive.


Flaming arrows coming the soldier's way one after another as his dream body fell downwards, the soldier closed his subconscious eyes. It was over. He was about to become a shooting star. Flaming arrows baking him deep, the early adult's body had begun to fall faster towards the ground.


Uniform burning faster as the ground kept getting further away, the soldier waved the invisible white flag. He was burning too brightly, he was going to become a white dwarf and die out any second now. Flames soon becoming blue, the chimera let out a scream that could have penetrated into reality.


Dream wind thrusting him downward, the chimera let out another sea of shouts. What was this? Why was the dream world always fighting against him. Hilichurls bringing down their flaming arrows once again, the soldier swore he was about to explode as a neutron star and become a black hole.


Feeling himself burn out as the ground around him caught on fire, the early adult closed his dream eyes. Subconscious energy reducing itself to nothing, the world around him had begun to fade. As the weight around him collapsed, the soldier could feel himself become a white dwarf. Everything within him about to burn out, the chimera embraced the dream death about to take him away.


He will never fly.


Why was this happening to him?


***


"It's getting worse now.
These stone finger of mine.


I'm scared, I'm scared, I'm scared.
Something is happening to me.


Every day I wake up now, I am
Very terrified.
Every day I wake up
Now, I fear there will be more stone upon me.


Why is this happening to me? I am becoming
Obsidian. No. Noctilucous Jade.
Really, it doesn't matter,
Soon, I will be a statue.
Everything is breaking. No. I am


Taking this too seriously. I am
Overthinking. Surely, it'll go away if I wash my hands. Yes, Yes, I am just
Dirty. That's it. Unclean.
All I have to do is scrub this all away!
Yes, that's it, scrub it all away."


Waking up in a place unknown to him, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Where was he? What happened when he had been knocked unconscious? But, he knew he couldn't ask such questions. Such was forbidden. He needed to get up and out of bed and get ready for whatever workday were to await him.


But, as the soldier pulled the covers off of him, the horrifying event from yesterday gained its less acclaimed sequel. Left fingertips black now as well, the early adult let out a loud scream. What was happening to him? Why was his left hand rocky now, too? He needed to find a sink right now, this instant. But, he could soon hear loud footsteps run towards the room of the unknown.


"Siorc, is something the matter?" Bain asked, concerned.


Immediately realizing he had been in the sea lion's home, the soldier bowed an apology. Shaking his head, the early adult placed his hands behind his back. Bain giving him a look of suspicion as he had done such, the hyena mouthed the word sink. Told there had been one in the kitchen, the early adult headed towards it. This was his chance to be cleansed of the dirt and grime.


Twisting the nobs upon the sink, the chimera placed his palms underneath the geyser. Swishing his hands underneath with soap and water, the rush took the soldier away. But, such quick cleanse had done nothing. Fingertips remaining as greyish black as night, fear creeped up on the hyena.


Kali soon setting down the breakfast plates, fish awaited the party of four. Everyone guzzling down on their meals, the hyena munched away. But, as he had done so, the hyena flinched. Was it just him, or did everything taste like crystal? Eyes on him, the chimera finished the meal, sharp taste burning. Wasting foo someone worked hard to make was a crime.


Everyone's meals finished, a knock soon hit the door. Bain saying she'll get it, the Demoiselle and a ginger Fatui waited from the other side of the entranceway. Seeing such, the soldier stood to his feet. Was it time for work? He needed to prepare himself for his orders, no matter what.


"Your friend's boss was looking for him," the Demoiselle said.


"Friends?" Bain asked. "Ah, no, Demoiselle, we barely know him. But, I'll go get him." Running towards the kitchen table, she turned around, she then lowered her voice into a whisper. "Your boss is over there."


Bain coming over to him, the soldier ran towards the door. How did this ginger Fatui know where to look for him? His proxy map he wasn't allowed to use in Fontaine, did it have some sort of tracking device in it? But, he knew there was no time to get lost in thought. Eyes soon on the woman's mask, she soon spoke.


"Stone hydras have appeared everywhere!" the ginger Fatui exclaimed. "Your boss couldn't make it here today, so he told me to pass along a message to you to go fight them!"


Ginger Fatui telling him he would be fighting stone hydras, the hyena's eyes opened wide. How was he supposed to fight a dragon? His heart skipped a beat as he thought about such. There was absolutely no way he could do that. Not a chance. He was far too weak in his current state. But, his thoughts were interrupted.


"Oooh! Dragon slaying!" Aigre exclaimed, awestruck. "Count me in!"


"Aigre, leave this to the grownups!" Bain scolded.


"Um, Bain, don't you, uh, think this job is too much for grownups, too?" Kali asked. But, the Demoiselle soon added herself to the conversation.


"Actually, from what I've heard these dragons are weak to Geo," the Demoiselle said. "She should go. I have to go to Fleuve Cendre to help someone out." An apology had soon been added to the end of her sentence.


"Alright, Aigre, you can dragon slaying, I guess," Kali said reluctantly. She then turned towards, what was his name, Skirt? Skirt, right. "Uh, Skirt, right? Don't exhaust yourself this time, okay?"


Bain insisting she and Kali go with Aigre and he, the early adult shrugged. He supposed the power of four was better than the power of two. Everyone exiting out of the house, the Ginger Fatui whispered in his ear that a few appeared beside the beach. Knowing that was his cue to head back towards that area, the chimera readied to exit the seaside village.


But, as the soldier had begun walking behind the party of three in front of him, an intense sea of worry washed him away. His body, was it going to be turned to stone soon? His fingertips had already been gone. What was next? Would everything become rocky? It was only a matter of time before he was a statue.


As the party of four walked through the west slopes, another intense wave of doom flowed through him. The Agent, if he found out about this, would he have his fingers removed and replaced with robots ones? His knees buckled as he thought such. There was no way he could let anyone find out what was currently afflicting him. He had to keep it to himself.


But, the hyena's thoughts only continued to intensify as the sand drew closer. What if he was contagious? Bain, Kali, Aigre, the Agent, the Demoiselle and everyone else that had gone near him, were they about to have their fingertips become rocky, as well? If such were going to happen, it was his fault.


Beach only a mere seventy meters away, his thoughts intensified. The abyssal gazelles, did they curse him? While such was outlandish, he knew such possibility existed. The curse, could it affect others? Everyone around him was in jeopardy if that were the case. But, his thoughts were soon interrupted by a loud roar.


Finding a large serpentine dragon made entirely out of stone and crystal bits, the hyena backed ten steps away. This dragon, had it been afflicted with the Noctilutcous Jade, too? He needed to get rid of it and end its suffering. Sifting through his bag, for a moment, the soldier removed his borrowed greatsword from his satchel.


Peculiar pitch black claymore seated in his hands, doom loomed over the hyena. Had his blade been turned to stone, as well? He was spreading his rocky influence on everything, for sure. But, he immediately snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? He needed to start fighting right now.


Aigre letting out a battle cry as she released her scythe, the power of Geo compelled her. Rocky attacks thrusted towards the enemy, Bain and Kali brought their scythes to the table, as well. Combined efforts of the trio in front of him causing shields to explode aplenty, multiple openings had created themselves.


Terrifying Pyro, Electro and Geo shaking hands with one another, the hyena placed his greatsword in front of him. Slashing forward with full force, the early adult let out a battle cry. Stone breaking away, the dragon let out a pained roar as the fight kept going.


Aigre letting down the final blow, the creature had become nothing but a pile of rocks. Minerals falling down in the ocean, she let out a cheer. But, such celebrations were cut short. Hearing a rather loud disturbing noise off in the distance, the party of four had begun running north.


But, as the quartet had kept running on ahead, a shocking sight awaited everyone. Multiple hydras slinking around the area at high speed, the soldier sped up his running speed. Why were these dragons slithering so fast? But, they soon stopped themselves as Aigre approached.


Aigre screaming it was time for some dragon slaying, every single hydra let a roar one after another. Hearing such, the early adult backed four steps away. What in the world was she saying that for? She was going to rile them all up in no time. Creatures coming towards her, the chimera shook his head. She had gotten herself into quite the pickle, for sure.


Hydras attempting to twist themselves up to become a six headed dragon, the early adult's eyes opened wide. These monsters, were they able to fuse together and become one? He needed to make sure such was never able to come to pass. Readying himself for the fight ahead, the chimera placed himself into a battle stance.


Aigre focusing her attention on the furthest away hydra and the sea lion sisters dashing off towards further serpentine monsters, the chimera steeled himself. These dragons, would he even be able to defeat them without the power of Geo on his side? He knew he had to try it.


But, as his greatsword swiped towards the Hydra, the soldier swore he had hit a wall. Attempting to strike again, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. This dragon, was its stone as hard as a sheet of metal? If such were the case, he was done for, finished. There was absolutely no way he would be able to win such a fight.


Attempting with all his might to break through the metal shields, the soldier let out a grunt. Just what kind of stone were these creatures made out of, White Iron Chunks? Surely, his claymore would be able to cut such a thing. Harder, he needed to swing harder. Surely, that would do it.


But, such had proven to be the wrong move, as well. Nothing happening whatsoever the harder he swung, the chimera could feel his will float away. Had this creature been made of platinum? There was no way his sword would be able to penetrate through such if such were the case.


Hearing Aigre scream out a battle cry from the distance, a large rock attack overtook the battlefield. Every single Hydra locked into some sort of stun, a slaying for the century took the area by a firestorm. Horrifying anchor of flames soon summoned from Bain's vision of terror, the soldier closed his eyes.


Group of dragons burning away as their rocky bodies melted, the soldier charged forward. Enemies defeated one after another as the group of four ganged together, piles of rocks fell to the ground in succession of one another. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but wonder. These serpentine creatures, had they just been rocks who had come alive? He could not help but feel that had to have been possible.


Hearing even louder roars off towards the east, the quartet ran off as fast as their currently human legs could carry them. Spotting multiple rocky hydras once again trying wreck havoc upon the neighboring Morte Region, Bain soon aired out her grievances for everyone to hear them.


"What's going on here lately?" Bain asked out loud. "This is tiring."


"Um, weren't you saying 'leave this one to the grownups' earlier?" Kali reminded her. "You're, um, not setting a very good example right now."


"You're right, sorry," Bain responded, shaking her head. "Let's get rid of these creatures."


But, the hydras before the group had multiple screws loose upon their head. Creatures spitting out a large amount of water upon the ground, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What in the world were these creatures doing? Whatever attack they were trying to do, it was quite ridiculous, for sure.


Foolish dragons slipping and falling into their own trap, the chimera crossed his arms across his waist. Where in the world did these creature's intelligence go? Wherever it was, it had definitely left the building. He hardly would need his blade to take these ones out, for sure.


Closing his eyes for a moment, his stony hands had soon become rocky hyena paws. Greasy minerals clamping down hard, the soldier flinched. The texture, why did it feel so different all of a sudden? But, the hyena attempted to numb such. He couldn't let the pain devour him. He had to take these creatures out and return them back to the rock piles they once were.


Hydra soon attempting to sneak up on him from behind, the soldier let out a high pitched scream. Tail brushing up against the creature, the chimera's claws had soon done the rest of the talking. Creature as wet as rain, his talons had not met their match. First creature returning to its rocky form of nothing, the hyena's dragon slaying continued.


Sea lion trio from afar doing their own battles, the soldier's slaying continued for minutes on end. Claws as mighty as the sword, the soldier wondered as the second creature had been slain. These dragons, had their defenses been destroyed by their own pitfall? Just how many braincells did they have? They had to have about as many as a rock.


Zero.


Moving towards the third hydra that was slippery abound, the chimera's claws and tails had soon done their bidding. Rock piles falling down upon the ground one after another, the early adult let out a tired sigh. Slaying dragons was quite the tiring business. Bain, Aigre and Kali slaying the rest, as well, another roar had been heard near the ruins further east.


Trio in front of him running off towards the island to the right, the hyena had begun to straggle behind. Closing his eyes, for a moment, his hyena paws returned to rocky human form, but as he attempted to catch up with everyone, a sea of dooming thoughts overpowered him.


His stony hands could they have been laying their curse upon the monsters? If that was indeed the case, there was no way he could let himself win in such a way. Was that a fair battle? It couldn't have possibly been, in the slightest, for any given reason. But, his thoughts only continued to worsen as he continued.


How much longer would it take for him to become stone? Days, weeks, moments? He did not know, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of dread loom over. He would become a Noctiluctous Jade statue. Any day now, any second now. His moments were numbered.


But, the soldier's thoughts were cut short as Bain called after him. Hearing such, the soldier flinched. What was he doing, allowing himself to get lost in thought like this? He was on the nonexistent clock right now. He had to get ready for the next battle. He needed to stop thinking about his body's future possible state. Surely, at some point, this would all go away.


A brand new building awaited the soldier.


Humongous hydra the size of two buildings stacked up on top of one another, the early adult backed ten steps away. What was this creature, the God of all Hydras? This creature looked like something straight out of an Inazuman light novel like a certain gigantic lizard monster from another universe.


Creature letting out a roar that shook the world beneath them, the early adult's eyes twitched. Was beating this monster even possible? The soldier could feel his will begin to sway. There was no way this could be possible to beat. But, his thoughts were cut short as the serpentine creature's crooked its head towards the sky.


Rock storm coming up front and center, the early adult jumped from left to right. Meteoric rise continuing for minutes on end, the soldier kept on leaping. Placing his blade out in front of him, the chimera prepared himself. This creature had projectile attacks. Surely, he could knock them back towards their owner.


Stoney projectiles coming the quartet's way, everyone else soon had their weapons out in front of them. Multiple rocks raining down from the heavens, the soldier jumped seven steps back. Swinging his greatsword as if it were a bat, the minerals went charging back.


Creature reaping what it had sewn, Bain, Kali and Aigre to copy such actions. Rocks hurdled back, as well, the soldier swore he could hear some peculiar noises in the background. Monster regaining strength far faster than he accounted for, high speed boulders had come down from the sky one after another. But, as such went on, a shout filled the air.


"Captain Vert, it's too powerful!" Aigre shouted. "Please, give me strength to continue!"


Small boulder hitting him from behind, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. But, when he opened them again, the soldier swore he could see a green haired man adorning an eyepatch and pirate hat. Seeing such, confusion nibbled on the hyena's ear. Aigre's imaginary friends, could he see them?


But, as the soldier closed his eyes and opened them once more, such figure was gone. Had he been seeing things? The projectile thrown his way must have made him tired. Surely, that had to have been it. Attempting to regain focus, the chimera placed his greatsword out in front of him once more.


Rocky onslaught continuing to press on, the soldier bounced back as much of the attacks as he could muster. Creature looking weaker as the bounces kept on going, the soldier ready to aim for the lower body. Slashing through the rock with every amount of energy that remained, the hyena grunted up a storm. Opening finally there, he pressed on. But, as his efforts continued, a battle cry took the stage.


"I am a pirate!!" Aigre cried. "Hear me roar!!" As she said such, she let out a roar.


Aigre leaping up in the air, scythe tilted, her weapon sliced and diced as if she were transported into a world where grey ravens were punished. Curved blade quickly infused with the power of Geo, she soon called herself the dragon slayer once more as the final blow dealt itself in spades.


Cut of the lamb done and over with, a rocky rain dropped down from the sky. Stones looking ready to decimate him, the soldier dashed away from the area of debris. Bain and Kali doing so as well, no casualties of war had been delivered. Aigre celebrating her victory with her invisible pirate crew, the soldier stared off into space.


But, as his thoughts passed through him, an intense wave of fatigue flowed through him. Feeling such, the soldier's body sagged forward like a lumpy pillow. Where had this sudden tiredness come from? The art of battling was quite energy draining, indeed. Knowing he would drop like a fly at any given moment, he attempted to pick himself back up.


Such, however, was impossible. Energy dropping to an all time low, the hyena could feel himself begin to wobble. Bain catching him as he stumbled, the soldier blinked. Had he ever been this tired after a battle before? Maybe he had used far more energy than he had bargained for today.


"Are you alright?" Bain asked. But no such answer ever came for minutes on end. "We're talking you home. Alright. Bear with us."


Bain grabbing ahold of him, the soldier could feel himself fade away. Why were they taking him back to their home? Shouldn't he just teleport back to Snezhnaya? But, the soldier's fingers would not move towards his back pocket. His palms why weren't they moving in the direction he wanted them to? Unable to break free from the grip, the escort continued. Placed into a guestroom bed, the early adult closed his eyes immediately. World of sleep almost immediately taking him away, one final question let itself out.


What's happening to him?


***


Dreaming continued its never ending cycle of torment within the soldier's subconscious mind. The pattern would reverse and repeat, looping backwards and forwards with every single successful day passing within his lifetime. The loop would continue in the night before him as well.


Before him had been nothing but the sky. But what awaited him below was a world of terror all its own. Feeling a simulated sense of heat, the chimera creaked his head downward. Magma chamber down below growing closer and closer with every given step, the hyena's dream heart beat harder and faster.


Almost fifty meters away from the pit of doom, the soldier could not help but wonder. The dream world, why had it already been terrifying? Surely, there had to have been some sort of timer before the terrors were to take center stage within the not reality presented before him. But, he supposed there was no such things as rules in the land of the sleep.


Attempting with all his might to escape the clutches of the sky, the hyena attempted to push his dream body towards the opposite direction. But, such had been an utter failure for dream minutes on end. Trajectory towards the heated pool of death streaking closer, his pathway to freedom had been locked.


Body burning up like a meteorite in the sky, a scream almost penetrated into reality. It was over. He was about to become one with the fiery mountain's center. Any second now, and he would be melted, gone, a corpse amongst the dead. It was too late, he was doomed, a goner, as good as dead within the dream world.


Closing his eyes as he continued to tumble down, the soldier accepted his dream fate. This was it. He was about to be burned, like he always was. The dream world, why couldn't it ever be kind to him? But, he supposed that had been asking for too much. Such would never happen, not even if he begged for it.


Simulated sense of heat eating him alive, the soldier's currently human legs had become the first sacrifice of many. Bone melting away as the magma scorched him, the hyena let out another scream that penetrated into reality. The pain, why did it feel so real. Was he truly dreaming? The lines, they were blurring together.


Entire body readying itself to become a sacrifice, the soldier's dream thoughts had begun to race. Heat laughing at him as entire dream being had begun to burn away, the flames ate the soldier up like a plate of caldou. The world was melting, burning disappearing before his every dream eyes.


Currently human hands melted away to bone, the soldier could hear the final trumpet call for him. Dream eyes closing shut as his dream body perished for what felt like the third night in a row, everything within the dream world had grown black. As his final moments within the dream snuck up on him from behind, one final thought melted with him inside the fiery mountain of doom.


Dreams are terrifying.


***


"It's getting worse,
This curse, it


Has begun to get worse.
And I am scared. What is happening?
Soon, I'll be completely hardened.


Get to work while I still can before I am a statue.
Oh, who am I kidding? When I am one, I will have
To work through it.
That's right, I won't have a choice.
Even if I am a statue, I know I'll
Never stop being Her Majesty's pawn.


Why did the Abyss Gazelles do this to me? Revenge,
Obviously, but. This can't be. Please, exact a different kind of
Revenge. This is terrifying,
Scary. This Noctiluctous Jade, it's
Eating me.


I am being consumed by this toxic crystal.


And soon, I
Might be no more. No, no, no, don't


Say that. Don't think that. This
Curse, yes, this curse, it'll go
Away when the gazelles are satisfied! When their
Revenge is fulfilled. Yes, that's it. That's it!
Everything makes sense. Surely, that's the answer.
Don't panic, this'll all soon be over."


Waking up the next morning, the horror of reality awaited him once more. Lifting himself up from the covers, the early adult almost fell off the guest bed at the sight before him. All ten of his currently human fingers pitch black with tiny bits of blue jade in them, the hyena's heart skipped more than ten beats. What was happening? Why was it continuing to grow? He would be a statue any day now.


But, the soldier shook such fears away. He didn't have time for this. He had work ahead of him, for sure. Surely, once the gazelle's revenge was satisfied, the stone upon him would crumble away. That had to have been it. He needed to stop letting himself get so worried about a temporary problem. Stepping towards the door, Bain awaited him.


"There's a reporter waiting for you by the door," Bain said arms across her waist. "I would hurry. They seem? Impatient."


Knowing he had to make haste, the soldier stepped outside the door. Seeing a person in a brown suit with a hat to match, the soldier blinked. He was in the presence of a reporter alright. This person, what could they possibly want from him? If they wanted to interview him. No comment, next question.


"Siorc, right?" the reporter asked.


Hearing a very familiar voice, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. The ginger Fatui? Who in the world did she think she was fooling pretending to be a reporter? He wasn't buying it, not one bit. She needed to get better at disguising herself before she even stood a chance at not getting caught. But, despite such holes, he gave her a nod.


"Great. I have a job for you!" the 'reporter' exclaimed. "There's been some conspiracies reported! We need a young person to do some myth busting!"


The soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. This Fatui, just what was she hiding. Go myth busting? This couldn't have been anything but a cover up for something else. Whatever that might have been, she was doing quite the poor job of hiding it. Kamera soon handed his way, she soon leaned over his ear to bellow a whisper.


"Some dumb rookies misplaced some beacons," the Ginger Fatui whispered. "Go to the places listed on the paper, and go get them." Paper soon tucked into his pocket, she put on a fake smile. "Thank you so much for your help, young one! Enjoy myth busting!" She then bellowed a whisper once more. "Just write up whatever about these conspiracies. I don't care."


The soldier could hardly believe his ears. He had to go on a pretend myth busting mission? What in the world was happening, was this some convoluted excuse to say he had no work today? But, he supposed he'd play along and gather the lost beacons along the way. Removing the paper tucked into his pocket, the soldier read the first so called conspiracy upon the sheet.


"Ghosts in the eerie underwater cave in the Morte Region?!" the headline stated.


Reading such headline, the soldier shook his head. Ghosts, in an eerie cave? Such would be extremely easy to disprove, for sure. Knowing he had to head for the cave, the hyena left Poisson behind. Figuring the mission had a time limit, the soldier had begun running.


But, such sprint had ended before it could even begin. Feeling a wave of malaise take over him, the hyena's energy flew away. Why was he feeling less than optimal today? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. He was spewing nonsense. His nightmare from the evening prior was just messing with him. He needed to shake it off right away.


Soon finding himself near an eerie hole, the soldier jumped downward. Finding himself in the mysterious cave in question, a cannon fired off all by itself. Seeing such, the soldier leaped upward. Could there have been a ghost in here after all? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. Ridiculous. There was absolutely no way. Snapping a photo anyway, the hyena soon located the beacons necessary. As he had done such, however, water engulfed the chimera.


Current dragging the soldier away for minutes on end, the hyena had soon found himself in a room slightly familiar to him. Turning his head towards the right and left, for a moment, a realization had overtook him. Had he drifted off towards the Orthant of Memory? The soldier did not know, but he felt like it had to have been one of those domains. Water draining away, he soon gazed at his next order of business.


"Ghost mirror spotted?!" his instructions exclaimed.


Reading such note, the soldier shook his head. Ghost mirror, really? Who even wrote these headlines? Her Majesty was certainly making a story out of his recent adventures into the looking glass. Moving himself towards the pink mirror, the soldier threw himself in.


Nothing but the same wolves from last time awaiting him, the chimera snapped a photo. There was no way any of these stories he was being tasked to pretend to report on would even be interesting to a real journalist. But, he supposed he was not one in such field of profession and never would be.


Left behind beacons all collected shortly, the soldier shook his head. How could the Fatui who placed these leave them in such obvious places? Wasn't this job supposed to be about stealth? But, he supposed that's just how the cookie crumbled. He wasn't quite great at stealthing either. Conspiracy dealt with, the chimera read over his next one.


"Ghostchurl at the mysterious tower!?" the instructions exclaimed.


The soldier shook his head. A ghostly Hilichurl? Did anyone ever think before submitting these sorts of things? There was no way anyone would ever believe something like this. But, he knew he had no choice but to head here and see for himself. He wasn't truly investigating the so called conspiracies anyway.


Reaching the tower after about an hour of walking, the chimera stepped foot upon the tower. Spotting beacons everywhere, the early adult almost did a triple take as he brought himself down to the bottom floor. Gwendolyn and Lonan holding crossbows in their hands looking ready to hunt something, the soldier could see eyes turn.


"Babe, I dunno, there's nothing here," Lonan said, but he was immediately elbowed.


"You're giving up way too easily!" Gwendolyn shouted.


"Ow! Okay, you're right, sorry, babe," Lonan responded. He then turned off towards the opposite direction. "Black fish steak bro! Here to investigate the ghosts, too?"


Knowing his real mission to collect the beacons, the hyena held back the urge to shake his head. Knowing he had no choice but to affirm, the hyena nodded. Right, he was myth busting. That was his objective today. He was going to see once and for all if there were truly spirits here.


"Cool, bro, wanna join us?" Lonan asked.


Giving Lonan another nod, the party of two had soon become a team of three. Everyone looking throughout the tower from to bottom, absolutely no ghostly Hilichurl awaited anyone. But, such did not sway Gwendolyn, for even a moment. Watching as she demanded Lonan search harder, everyone soon had their work cut out for them.


Picking the beacons up on the floor as the continuous loop of searching had kept going, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. This conspiracy had to have been the worst one yet of them all, for sure. Whoever made this one up was clearly a fool with the tarot card flipped in the wrong position.


Gwendolyn soon suggesting everyone should head for the inside of the tower, there had to be some of the ghosts in there, everyone went inside. Lonan's disbelief completely shutdown as they entered, the chimera held back a groan. There she went again disregarding the black fish steak hawk's feelings.


Nothing at all on the first floor of the tower, the soldier pocketed any beacons he could locate. But, as the search continued, nothing of note stuck out to the hyena. Whoever wrote this attempt at a conspiracy had definitely made something up for the sake of making it up. How annoying.


Cruising through every single floor around the inside world, not a singular undead Hilichurl soul awaited Gwendolyn, Lonan or he. Everything completely empty from corner to corner, the hyena shook his head. These two had definitely been duped, without a doubt. Lonan dragging out a sigh, he soon saw himself out of the mythbusters. But his words could not come out as Gwendonlyn stole the show.


"This man who told us about the ghost Hilichurls is a liar!" Gwendolyn shouted. "Men really are useless!" But, she soon covered her mouth. She wasn't supposed to blurt that last one out.


"Gf, maybe they all just left," Lonan replied. "I'm sure he really saw it."


"Just like a man to defend another man!" Gwendolyn shouted.


"Babe, I wasn't?" Lonan responded in a questioning tone. He then turned towards black fish steak bro. "Sorry, black fish steak bro, no scoop for you."


Calling it a day for such conspiracy theory, the soldier exited the tower. Reading over the next conspiracy, however, the soldier's eyes practically rolled out of his head. There was an apocalypse time piece tucked away inside a secret room in the Natural Institute of Philosophy underwater? Yeah, right, sure. He'd believe when he sees it.


Reaching the beach after about an hour of backtracking, the soldier's head pulsated for a moment as he put on his diving equipment. But, the chimera tuned out the pain. He had no time to allow such a thing to take him over. He had to go grab the final set of beacons and move on.


Moving down towards the hidden research facility, multiple beacons soon awaited him. Soon coming across the hidden room he had been transported to a couple of months prior, absolutely no world ending time piece awaited him. Seeing such, the hyena shrugged. He supposed the key point of myth busting was to destroy the fake news and stamp it dry. If such were what had to be done, such had been successful, indeed.


But as the early adult returned to the surface world, he could not help but start to think. Why was he given this assignment in the first place? He could not help but feel how incredibly fake it felt. But, he snapped himself out of such thinking. Why would another Fatui try to trick him into thinking he had been given a false order? That was going far too low. Reading the final conspiracy upon the paper, the soldier read the words carefully.


"Crying voices heard in the Fountain of Lucine?!" his instructions explained.


The soldier blinked of bewilderment. This again? Hadn't he already investigated this? He couldn't help but feel a senses of dejavu. Returning towards the Aquabus near Poisson Tunnel, a special trip towards Marcotte Station had soon been made. It was time for the final myth of the day to be busted.


But, as the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, the soldier's thoughts raced. Could he have been tricked? He could not help but feel he had definitely been duped today. But, the hyena shook his head in a rapid manner. What in the world was he thinking? There was no way that was true. He was overthinking it.


Reaching Marcotte Station after about a fifteen minute ride, the soldier hopped off the vessel. Knowing he had to make haste towards the Fountain, the soldier made a break for it. Reaching the area after about five minutes of running, the soldier could feel his breath begin to die. Catching it as fast as he could, he stepped towards the so called crying Fountain of Lucine.


Reaching the fountain, the soldier could hear the tears of the fountain clear as day. Someone still asking how much longer just like last time, the chimera jumped eight steps away. Who was saying that? Who had been weeping inside the fountain? Had he been hearing things? The last time he had been taken here, his mind had not been the sharpest. But, as he kept on investigating, a surprise took the soldier away.


"Who goes there?!" a loud booming voice asked. "Stay away from this fountain!"


But, as the soldier attempted to move away, nothing happened. Movement dead and gone, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. What was happening to him, why couldn't his legs move? Had he turned to stone already? Voice raising up a ruckus, their shouts only got louder as the seconds unraveled.


"You asked for it!" the voice shouted.


Runaway experiment robot dancing Siorc's way, the early adult took out his borrowed greatsword. The icewind suite doll escaped her arena? This fight would be over before it even began. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, monsters had a fixed range of movement, and if they got out of their own little bubble, their original position would reset and go back to zero.


Closing his eyes for a moment, the soldier's currently rocky hands had soon become rocky hyena claws. This mechanical doll, surely a few strikes with his claws would end it. It did not have its dance partner, this would be done and over with before the magician's assistant could have her afternoon tea.


Hyena claws decimating the machine after twenty-five slashes, the robot fell as quickly as the soldier predicted. Letting out a deep huff as the battle ended, the soldier's thoughts had begun to race. Why was he out of breath from one singular battle? Something wasn't right.


Knowing he had been duped, the soldier returned to the Aquabus. There was no reason for him to continue pursue these myths. None of them were true. But, he supposed he had already succeeded in obtaining all the beacons. There was nothing left to do. Soon returning to the Court of Fontaine, the self proclaimed reporter soon located him. Satchel ripped off his back and kamera snatched, she soon looked at the photos.


"These photos aren't good enough! We can't use these!" the 'reporter' shouted. "I should have never hired you!" She then bent down beside the soldier's ear, bellowing a whisper. "Good job gathering the beacons. Go home. You are done."


Departure from work for the day granted, the hyena removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the soldier closed his eyes. Walking through the icy cold hallways, a wave of doom flowed through him as he stepped foot into the soundproof room.


As the soldier stepped foot into the steel walled room, a realization washed over him. The abyssal gazelles, he hadn't crossed paths with them a single time over the past three days. Just what were they planning? They had to have been up to something behind the scenes.


Wave of heavy tiredness soon overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the chimera slumped into the rock hard bed. Glasses soon removed as well, the soldier buried his stoned fingers deep underneath the covers. World of sleep taking him away as soon as his head hit the pillow, one final thought crashed waves around the hyena.


What are those gazelles up to?


Terror was eating him alive.

 

[Palamon]

23. Shrooms in Sumeru: Stoned Spores. Poison Roulette.

"How can this be?
Everything hurts, please don't
Look at me.
Please, don't peek at


My body, please, please, please
Everything is pitch black, jade.


I'm hurting.
This brings me so much pain.


How can this still be happening? It's
Uncomfortable, everything is burning. Abyssal gazelles, was your
Revenge worth it? I bet
They're laughing!
So much jade in my as,


It hurts
To breathe,


It hurts to move, it is
Spreading. The Agent has been


Gazing at me
Every single day,
Telling me
The same thing:
I burned myself.
No matter what I say, I
Guess he doesn't buy it.


Why not, I don't know. I suppose my constitution is too
Obvious, at this point.
Right, my lies are completely
See through, should have known.
Even so, I cannot sit around. I


Must work, or she'll kill me. Please, don't tell
Your Majesty. This


Has to have a time limit.
Ah, yes, a time limit.
No way this will last eternity.
Don't let this curse win. I'll
Soothe my pain,


And push on working,
Really, if I waver for
Even a moment, I'll be a disappointment.


So, I have no choice, I have
To keep working.
Ore inside me or
Not, that is key to successful living.
Even though it burns,


I can't let it stop me.


And Her Majesty
Mustn't find out.


I'll be considered useless.
No way can I let


Such happen.
Obviously, she is watching


My every single move.
Unless I am mistaken.
Can't let this curse win,
Her eyes are on me.


Please curse, disappear,
And free me from this pain,
I am burning,
No. I am mistaken,


Here's to another work of anything,
Everything. I won't
Let this affliction win.
Please Agent, look away.


My arms are no concern.
Everything is fine.


Please, look away
Look away,
Everything is
Absolutely fine.
So don't look.
Everything is alright.


Please, look away
Look away,
Everything is
Absolutely fine.
So don't look.
Everything is alright.


Please, look away
Look away,
Everything is
Absolutely fine.
So don't look.
Everything is alright."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The cycle was a wheel, spinning backwards, forwards and upside down to reveal a prize of misfortune every single time it did a loop around its board. The night before him was no different, as well.


Before him had been a field of hyacinths with sakura trees dense enough to create an entire forest. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had he been transported into Inazuma with in the dream world? There was no way that could have been possible. He had hardly been there enough to have such place stick deep enough into the roots of his memory.


Seating himself beside the flowers, an immediate wave of doom flowed through the soldier. The soldier did not know why, but he knew that, any dream second now, everything would flip backwards. Remaining seated for various dream minutes on end, the early adult awaited for torment to take him away, like it always did.


Nothing happening for dream hours on end, the early adult could not help but wonder. What could possibly be awaiting him in the not reality this time? He knew, whatever it might be, he needed to stay alert at all subconscious times, no matter what. Turning his dream head towards the right and left, emptiness slurped in his ear.


As the dream hours continued to drone on, a peculiarity soon overtook the area. White light engulfing the corner, a strange face he had never encountered within the mortal waking world presented itself to the hyena. Lowering his dream eyes into a squint for a brief moment, the chimera studied the possibly nonexistent person before him.


Standing in the unreal open had been a strange young man slightly taller than him. The young man had short light pink hair that went down to about his chin. Black hat covering his scalp and dark brown church coat covering his white shirt and pants, a red cape the man's backside. Tassel dangling from his shorts, and leg bracelets aplenty, the hyena examined the person's eyes, for a moment. Left eye a light purple, and right eye, grey, questions flowed through him.


Taking note that the young man adorned fangs, as well, the soldier could not help but wonder. This stranger, could he have been one of those vampires he had heard about in stories from his stolen childhood? Just who was this person? He had never encountered him at any point in the mortal, waking world. Was he here to suck on his blood? If such were the case, he could find another victim. But, his thoughts were soon cut off.


"Follow me," the possible vampire said, curling his gloved fingers.


Young man starting to walk ahead, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the soldier. Just where was this person taking him? Attempting to resist, the early adult remained still. But, such had been an immediate failure as the chimera's dream legs forcefully moved him forward. Letting out a sigh from the dream esophagus, the hyena stepped forward.


As the chimera stepped through the trail ahead, sakura petals kept falling downward onto the ground below. Seeing such, the early adult could feel a momentary amount of bliss. Trail continuing onward for dream hours on end, the empty road ahead of him droned onward.


But, as the stroll ahead continued, terrors were soon afoot. Footprints ahead of him trailing blood upon the pathway, unease at the chimera up like a plate of Katsu sandwiches. Had someone died when he wasn't looking? But, the early adult shook his dream head. Perhaps, just maybe, the young man had bitten someone.


Red footsteps only getting more crimson as the walk kept going, fear had begun to hug the soldier from behind. This stranger, just what were they up to? He could not help but feel something had been happening he could not see with his own two dream eyes. Young man soon turning around, his fangs glinted for a split dream second.


"Just a little longer!" the possible vampire exclaimed. As he said such, he turned around once more.


Trail soon getting shorter as the dream minutes sped themselves up, a guest of terror awaited the chimera from afar. Gigantic whale soaked in gallons of blood, the soldier attempted to turn around. He had to run, get away, leave this place. But, a force of wind thrusted the early adult forward. Sea creature getting closer with every second the young man soon pointed fingers at him.


"Your dinner's here, master!" the young man screamed, pointing.


Young man vanishing without a trace, the large sea mammals eyes laser focused on the soldier. Pupils glowing a deep red, the soldier could feel every drop of will die like a soldier on the battlefield. Creature raising itself upward and scooping down, the hyena closed his dream eyes. It was over. There was no escape. He was done for.


Nom nom nom nom nom nom munch.


Swallowed whole without a single chew in sight, the chimera tumbled down the whale's gigantic tongue with full force. Rolling down on repeat for dream minutes on end, mortification flowed through him. How could he allow himself to become food for another creature? The land of the subconscious was quite the unpredictable world of many unknown terrors.


Tumbling down further, stomach acid readied to melt the soldier into a puddle of nothing. Oozing away, the early adult let out a pained scream. Everything burned with an intensity hotter than anything in the mortal, waking world. Such, however, had only been the beginning of the torment.


Field of flames introducing themselves into the whale's belly regions, the soldier's dream eyes opened wide. Did it just eat fire? He was in trouble, for sure. Flares circling around the chimera, the hyena's body had soon been set ablaze. Dream life about to extinguish itself as the flames and acid got their last hurrah, the not reality before him turned black. As his final subconscious moments ticked, one final thought burned away, as well.


Don't bite the hand that feeds.


***


"How can this be happening?
Everything is turning black, my
Legs, there's something
Pulsating on them,


My arms are completely dark,
Everything hurts, help me,


Please someone help me.
Look at me, I'm breaking,
Everything is becoming jade.
And it hurts, someone please,
Someone please save me.
Everything is becoming jade.


I am becoming Noctilucous Jade.
There is nothing left of my


Hands, they are black. They have
Ultimately been sacrificed, I cannot
Remove this, it cannot be cleansed.
The jade has taken me away,
So little of me is left,


Soon, I will become Noctilucous Jade,
And it is rapidly consuming me,
Very little of my arms remain.
Everything is becoming jade.


My body, it will soon be nothing.
Everything will become jade. Please,


Free me from my suffering.
Remove this curse from me.
Everything will become jade
Everything will become jade.


My body, it's hard as stone,
Everything will become jade. Please,


Free me, free me, free me!
Remove this curse from me,
Or I will perish.
Maybe I am overreacting,


That's it. I am overreacting. That
Has to be it. Surely,
It will clear itself out
Soon. This


Curse, surely, it will go away. Deep breaths, deep breaths, do not let this be my
Untimely demise.
Right. I have work, this
Shall not be my downfall.
Everything will not become jade."


Four days had passed since the hyena collected treasures and obtained beacons around the Belleau and Morte Regions in Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Diplomatic affairs in Liyue droning on, mundaneness bubbled into overdrive.


Curse continuing to spread as the days went on by, waves of unease stayed behind the chimera at all times. But, despite such, the soldier remained on his toes. He knew that, if at any given moment, he stopped working, Her Majesty would end him. Nothingness looping on repeat, the hyena remained loyal.


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the early adult attempted to shake such away. Dreams weren't real. But, as he lifted the rock hard covers off of him, terror was ten centimeters deep.


Both arms completely greyish black with blue jade pieces poking out in the center, the soldier let out another scream, rocking back and forth for minutes on end. What was happening to him? The curse, was it spreading further? Taking a long deep breath, a brief wave of calmness flowed through him. He bought gloves days prior. Covering such affliction was simple. Lifting himself upward, the time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the soldier placed his uniform over his partially human body, an intense wave of heat emanated from his cheeks. But, the hyena tuned such feelings out. There was no way he could let a tiny little bit of heat stop him. Keeping himself focused, the chimera snapped the buttons shut.


But, as the soldier removed his bed pants, a horror soon awaited him. Disgusting bright pink boils pulsating as they populated his legs near the thighs, the soldier jumped more than twenty steps back. Seating himself against the steel wall, the tears streamed down the hyena's face as his head rocked back and forth, body shaking up a fury. What was happening to him? Where did these boils come from, all of a sudden? Ooze pussing out, the early adult tears kept going.


Snapping himself out of it, the soldier stood back up onto his feet. What was he doing, letting himself cry at a time like this? He was about to be on the nonexistent clock. He needed to throw all his emotions away. Pants would could cover up the issue in seconds. He needed to get over it, and get back to getting ready. No one would see them, they were merely acne. Surely, chimeras were not immune to the world of breakouts.


Problem covered up a buried dead body, the early adult placed long white gloves over his currently human hands. Soft cloth soon over him, the soldier stared down at his palms. Perhaps, just maybe, this would hide his black hands entirely. Surely, this had to work.


Extra steps done and dealt with, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching roses in his hair and ears, the soldier prayed to the Dendro Archon he was not supposed to worship his prized possessions would take away the heat emanating within him.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier could not help but wonder. What would happen if he were to overuse the powers bestowed to him by the gods? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? There was no way something like that would ever be possible. He needed to get rid of such thoughts right away.


Heelless shoes on, the early adult bit down into his flavorless rations. But, as he had done so, the soldier burst into a shiver as tears rolled down his face. His meal, why did it taste like Noctilucous Jade? Everything was hard, cold, stony. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. He needed to turn off his emotions, this instant. Perhaps, just maybe, he had gotten an expired batch of gruel. Taking another deep breath, the work mode switch flipped upward. No more fear. It was time to focus.


The louder than ever before militaristic boots marched onward with a fervor. Hearing such, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be collecting mushrooms in Sumeru today." But, the Agent stopped himself from continuing further. Subordinate's cheeks bright red, the Agent squinted underneath his mask. Something was not right. Gazing downward, a wave of suspicion flowed through him. "Your face is very flushed, soldier. Perhaps I should tell Her Majesty you are in no condition to work day." A sick soldier was a useless soldier.


Siorc jumped three steps backwards upon hearing the Agent suggest he should tell Her Majesty about his current condition. The Agent was onto him. A lie, yes, he needed to tell a convincing enough untruth to get him off his back. Surely, that would work. Words blurting themselves out, the room got louder.


"What are you talking about, sir? I just got sunburned the other day!" Siorc exclaimed, uncharacteristically loud. He then stumbled upon his words. "And, stop looking at my hands. I burned them, remember? We're going to be late, sir! We need to go!"


The Agent's squint only got deeper from beneath his mask. He wasn't buying what his subordinate was selling. The soldier was being very articulate today. Such was three red flags forming into a huge banner of crimson. How very unlike him. He was always the quiet one. He needed to let the soldier know he was in no shape to work today.


"You are in no condition to be working, soldier," the Agent responded. "Her Majesty needs to be informed about your current condition." A weak soldier was a useless soldier.


The soldier broke out into a meek laughter. He was in no condition to be working? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. The agent was exaggerating. Collect mushrooms? No problem. He could gather them in no time. Another laugh escaping the chambers of his throats, words blurted themselves out once more.


"Really, I am fine, sir, I can work!" Siorc exclaimed uncharacteristically. "We need to go! Her Majesty would be disappointed if we're late!" There was a deep amount of desperation in his voice.


"If you insist, soldier," the Agent responded, sighing. Grabbing his wrist lightly, the escort was ready to begin. "But, if anything happens to you, you will be sent to a medical facility." Wrist gripped into a lighter squeeze than normal, the chimera closed his eyes. As the escort towards Sumeru began, one final thought poked the chimera's partially human brain.


He could not falter.


***


"She wants me to collect mushrooms,
How is this a job, Your Majesty?
Really, I don't quite get it, this is
Obviously just a distraction
Of whatever she's planning next. Or,
Maybe, she is trying to gather
Some sort of power from them.


I do not understand,
No, I do not get this one bit. Her Majesty is


She trying to go on a trip?
Unless I am utterly
Mistaken, don't some mushrooms cause
Eerie hallucinations. What is this order? I
Really don't
Understand. This makes absolutely no sense.


Please be real with me, what kind of
Order is this?
Is she running out of jobs to give this?
Something isn't adding up.
Or, perhaps, I am mistaken.
No, this still does not make any sense.


But, I suppose I do not have a choice. I must follow
Orders. I must collect the mushrooms. Peculiar
Or not, I have to
Go get Her Majesty
All the shrooms she desires. I do not
Like this, but that's how it has to be.
Obviously, I cannot disobey
Orders, or she'll kill me."


Upon reaching the capital city of Sumeru through the teleport waypoint, a paper list of locations had been handed off to the soldier. Wooden basket placed on his backside, as well, a repeat reminder had come the hyena's way. Agent once again informing him that if anything were to happen to him, he would be taken to a clinic, the soldier held back another laugh. Such would not be happening.


Agent soon vanishing towards the Akademiya, the hyena gazed down at his notes, for a moment. But, as he read through such, the early adult did a quintuple take. There had been shrooms in the city just lying around, waiting to be collected? How incredibly odd. Had they just been been in the area, ripe for the picking? He could not help but feel the workday ahead of him had been highly calculated.


Figuring the best course of action was to head northward, the soldier prepared to stage his exit. Heart pitter pattering as he descended downward, the chimera performed his breathing exercises, for a moment. He needed to get it together. Moving forward, the hyena kept his eyes peeled for any fungus among him.


Red and white shrooms rooted into the sidewalk, the soldier bent his knees downward. But, the chimera swore he could see black eyes in the center of the future feast for the Cryo Archon. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. What was he thinking? He was imagining it, surely. Scooping them up, the spores dropped themselves into the basket.


Moving onward, blue shrooms stood out amongst the crowd of generic nobodies. Everyone moving on with their day, the chimera crouched downward once again. But, as he picked up the food of future feast, the soldier swore he could see them glowing. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. He was seeing things. There was no way they were doing that.


Continuing along the path, plain brown toadstools awaited the chimera in a bed of grass beside a house. Generic citizens glaring at him as he picked them, sweat dropped down the hyena's brow. Did he look strange picking such things? Stumbling out an apology, the crowd turned back around, business minded.


Finding even more colorful mushroom once again, the soldier blinked as he scooped up the next batch. The shrooms, they had eyes, indeed. There was no mistake. Head spinning as the batch had been dropped down, the early adult brought himself back to reality. He needed to stop allowing his mind to wander.


Tens upon twenties of shrooms collected one after another, multiple colors adorned the basket. Seeing such, the early adult blinked. These mushrooms, weren't they a little too colorful? Something smelled like fish. But, he supposed fungus had come in many different shades, surely, there was nothing to worry about.


But, as the chimera kept going, the various shades aplenty stuck out to the soldier. Green shrooms collected the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. The toadstools had to have been glowing, there was no way he was mistaking it. Throwing the next collection down, the early adult remained focused.


Grand Bazaar getting closer with every single step, the hyena backed four steps away at the sight before him. Rainbow colored mushrooms looking ready to take anyone on a trip with one bite, the soldier almost walked away. Were these even edible? There was no way even a god could eat these things.


Scooping the shrooms up anyway, the soldier tilted his head towards the sky. Why did Her Majesty want him to collect these mushrooms for? Did she think she would gain some sort of powers from eating them? He did not quite understand. But, he supposed whatever she wanted with them was not his business.


Final set of toadstools picked from the area, the hyena took a deep breath. Just how many had he picked so far? Over one hundred? List telling him to pick all the ones within the Grand Bazaar, the chimera shook his head. There was no time for thinking. He had to continue his journey of fungus gathering.


But, as the soldier stepped foot into the secret shopping area of art and various other activities, a cacophony overtook the area. Multiple people asking one after another what is happening at the dance theater, the chimera tilted his head. The dance hall, had something been going on there? He had to check out what's going on immediately.


Crowd of people forming a flesh wall, the early adult tried to squeeze his way through the group of people. Children with the same faces asking in unison where did these mushrooms come from, the hyena scratched the back of his ears. Was he hearing things correctly? Hadn't mushroom growth been a common occurrence in Sumeru?


Chatter continuing for minutes on end, the soldier gazed at the stage up ahead. Red haired dancer gazing at a sea of toadstools sitting on the stage gathered around a potted plant, multiple students soon said they did not feel comfortable dancing on stage today with those things down. Passerby Akademiya students asking in disgust if anyone bothered to clean, frantic words had soon dropped into the area.


"Of course we keep it clean!" the red haired dancer exclaimed frantically. "We wash the stage after every show!"


Multiple academics claiming those who indulged in performing arts were filthy waste, the early adult could hardly believe his ears. These Akademiya students, what nonsense were they spewing just now? Absolutely vile of them to denounce the dance theater over a small bit of fungal activity.


Stepping onto the stage as if he was about to storm the front, the early adult grabbed the shrooms in front of him. Rainbow colored toadstools attempting to root themselves onto the dance theater floor, the hyena grabbed them as if he were pulling radishes out of the ground.


Crowd of people calling him various choice words with a sprinkle of asking if he was mental as he cleaned up the stage of its fungal issue, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Did people have to resort to saying such rude things? Humans were rather annoying towards things they did not understand. Future food basketed, the red haired dancer soon looked his way.


"Thank you for taking care of the mushrooms," the red haired dancer said. She soon continued. "But, I could have taken care of them just fine."


Shaking his head, the soldier placed his gloves out in front of him. Signing it was his duty for the entire public to see, heads titled at such. Stepping off stage, eyes followed him as he exited the area. Hearing people call him a weirdo as he exited, the chimera attempted with all his might to tune the far away insults out.


Bazaar soon exited, the soldier could not help but wonder. The mushrooms, they were far too colorful for their own good. Something was off about them, for sure. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. The toadstools were fine. He was overreacting, for sure. Nothing was wrong with them.


City soon left behind, the early adult gazed at his next order of business upon the sheet of Dendro creation. Area near Gandharva Ville listed, the early adult tilted his head. The treehouse village? Why would he need to collect mushrooms around there? But, he supposed he had no choice in the matter.


Heading towards the southern exit of the area, walking across a bridge, the soldier swore the sky above him was spinning as he gazed upward towards it. Focusing his attention downward, the world was a top. But, as the hyena kept moving southward, a new disturbance hit the force.


Sweating up a storm, the chimera could not help but wonder. Had it gotten hotter since he had been teleported here? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. Why should he let a little bit of heat stop him? He was in the rainforest. Humidity was the jungle's best friend.


Cracking his knuckles through his gloves, the chimera prepared to press onward. Surely, there weren't that many spores of doom to collect. Ghandharva Ville, he would be in and out in no time. Moving across the bridge a smidgeon faster, the early adult was ready for the next round of food collecting.


Reaching the southern area within Chinvat Ravine, the grass in the corner had been littered with possible hallucinogens, the chimera bent downward, for a moment. Brightly colored shrooms aplenty staring back at him with angry looking black pupils, the early adult could feel his chest leap. Was the Cryo Archon's future food staring at him? How terrifying.


More magical diamonds adorning colorful patterns as he picked them up, the hyena's brow had been bathed in sweat. These shrooms, had they been baked with something? He could not help but feel something had been far more off about these than the rest of the ones he had picked so far.


Eremites staring at him as if he had more than three screws loose as he pocketed pink shrooms shaped like a heart, the early adult gaze at the onlookers from the corner. Why did he have so many eyes on him today? Couldn't people just mind their own business and let him be?


Mercenaries choice words to each other asking to one another if he was mental, the early adult clicked his tongue. Just how many people would going to talk about him while he was around to hear it? If there were fungus among him, he had no choice but to collect them. Tuning their comments out, the soldier walked off towards the left.


Hearing feet parading around as the next group of toadstools had been collected, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Eremites calling him various versions of the word crazy as he kept picking, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Why were they still watching him? Didn't adventurers all the time collect mushrooms for cooking? They could keep their eyes to themselves.


Heat beating upon his face as Ghandharva Ville grew closer with every given second, the early adult wiped his brow, for a moment. The rainforest, had it gotten hotter since he stepped foot here? But, the hyena threw such thought into the river. Of course it had been hot here. He was in a rainforest. The land of Dendro was never a cold one, for sure.


Regaining focus, the soldier soon stepped foot into Gandharva Ville. Body wobbling as he made his entrance, the hyena attempted with all his might to get balanced. Limbs soon steady, the early adult prepared himself for the next food collection session.


Spotting a goldmine of toadstools adorning various colors and shades, the early adult readied himself for the next course of action. Knees bent after what felt like the twentieth time for the day, the chimera swore the future food he had picked was glowing with an intense green aura.


Moving onward upon the pathway, multiple glowing mushrooms had soon been scooped up, and collected. Continuing along the path, the soldier swore he could hear the sound of furry ears flopping around. Hearing such, a wave of unease flowed through him. Were more people about to watch his every move? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense.


Multiple sets of iridescent spored wonders collected one after another, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Just what were these shrooms? How did they get to be so many different colors? Dropping them into the picnic basket of doom, the chimera kept moving along.


Hearing running footsteps coming after him as his picking kept racking up the speed, the early adult kept the momentum going. Surely, it had just been workers around the area investigating disturbances around the forest. He need not concern himself with the strangers patrolling.


Glowing shrooms in the shape of a star soon picked and put away, the early adult swore the running steps had only begun to get louder. But, the hyena kept his shoulders cold. Whoever it might have been attempting to run after him, he would not give them any attention they so desired.


Gloves covered to the brim with dirt as he kept gathering the hallucinogenic diamonds of possible edibility, the early adult swore the sound of running feet had suddenly stopped. The patrollers, had they finally changed their course? But, noise soon overtook the area.


"Excuse me! What are you doing?" the voice scolded. "Those mushrooms are poisonous!"


The early adult flinched as shouts had come his way. Where had the voice come from? The people patrolling, hadn't they already left the area? How could the voice be talking to him? Creeping his head upward for a moment. Eyes giving him a sharp glare, the soldier's heart skipped more than two beats.


Ears bouncing, the chimera turned around further. Furry eared man giving him an irritated look, a wave of confusion flowed through him. The mushrooms were poisonous? What did he mean? What in all of Teyvat did he mean by that? He had to have been pulling his legs.


Wave of dizziness soon overtaking him, the soldier blinked. The Forest Watcher Leader, was he talking to him? Head continuing to spin for a few moments, the early adult pointed his gloved index finger towards himself. Tilted his head towards the left, the hyena swore, he could see an eyeroll awarded to him.


"Yes, you big lummox," the furry eared man responded, annoyed. "I'm talking to you." He let out an irritated sigh. "You can't use those mushrooms, they're toxic."


The hyena held back the urge to laugh. Who did this guy think he was, telling him what to do? What was he, an expert of mushroom, a fungus encyclopedia? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. He didn't have time for these lectures from a stranger. No way was he going to listen to him any further.


"Don't lecture me, sir," the hyena responded characteristically. As he said such, he had begun running.


As the soldier dashed away for minutes on end, a realization washed over him. He had been rude to the furry eared man. Why in the world did he just say that? His parents always told him to not talk back to people. Had he lost complete control over his mouth? He needed to be quiet. Such language was unacceptable.


Heading north for the time being, multiple shrooms of many different colors and patterns awaited the hyena. Seeing such stretch from side to side as he kept going, the early adult could not help but wonder. What could have possibly made these toadstools toxic? The furry eared man was just making stuff up, guaranteed.


Hallucinogenic diamonds only gaining more colors and shades as he kept walking, the questions kept piling themselves up one after another. These shrooms, just how many different types were there? Had there been new species overnight? He supposed such had to have been a possibility at his currently stony hands.


Spored wonders aplenty getting wilder and more extravagant shades as he continued picking them, the hyena could feel sweat pour down his back. Had these shrooms been hotter than the other ones he had picked? Wave of intense nervousness sneaking up on him from behind, the soldier threw them into the basket as fast as possible. They were out of sight, out of mind.


Everything soon collected, a peculiar cave soon appeared within the hyena's heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Gazing at it, for a moment, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could there have been more fungus inside the cave? One quick look through would most certainly not hinder his progress.


Spotting shrooms forming a little forest for themselves in the area, the early adult almost took a quadruple take. Had he been transported off to some Mushroom Kingdom? Sumeru had quite a lot of secrets waiting to be discovered. Readying to move the next future garden of eaten, the chimera's legs erupted into a sprint.


But, as the chimera headed off towards the hallucinogenic paradise, the heat soon readied to to take the soldier away. This cave, where had all this humidity come from? There was no sunlight here. But, the early adult tuned such heat out. He needed to stop complaining. He was on the job right now.


Falling onto his knees as the collection of shrooms kept going, heat collected itself into the palm of the hyena's hands as the fungus sat down within his gloves. Intense burning feeling overtaking him as more pooled into his palms, confusion nibbled on he cartilage of the hyena's ears.


Collection session picking up speed, the heat only continued. Feeling such, the soldier flinched. These shrooms, were they made of fire? But, the hyena kept pressing onward. Fiery fungus or not, he knew he had to keep picking them. If even one mushroom were missing, Her Majesty would be disappointed, without a shadow of a doubt.


Hot shrooms of doom warming his palms in a continuous loop, the questions kept flowing outward. Had Hilichurls been cooking the toadstools before he had arrived here? If such were the case, he would be considered the enemy, in no time. Dropping the future food back into the basket, everything had soon been collected.


Removing himself from the hidden cave of secrets, the early adult read over his next order of business. The early adult scratched his head at the name written upon the leaflet. He had to head to Lokapala Jungle? Where could that have possibly been? Taking out his proxy map, for a moment the early adult dragged his finger towards the minus button in the corner.


Lokapala Jungle off in the northernmost corner of the map, the early adult steeled himself. What kind of mushrooms awaited him in the jungle ahead of him? Walking upon the northern path, the soldier sauntered onward. But, he swore as he kept walking along he could hear someone telling him to come back to the village.


Not giving the voice what it desired, the soldier's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Why should he listen to the screams coming towards him? He was on the nonexistent clock. Whoever was calling out to him was wasting their breath. Gandha Hill soon passed by, a cliffside soon awaited him.


As the soldier ascended the small mountainscape, the early adult could not help but wonder once more. Her Majesty, why did she want these mushrooms in the first place? Did she want to go on a nice trip? He couldn't help but feel such was not a healthy outlet, even for a god.


Moving through the area at breakneck speed, the chimera shook his head. Why did it matter why she wanted them for? If she wanted to go to Acid Land that was her own business. Dashing along, a peculiarity stuck out as Lokapala Jungle grew closer. Observing the area ahead of him, his eyes were forward.


Spotting a peculiar forest with tall blue mushroom like trees stretching towards the sky, more questions than answers flew the hyena for a loop. Those tall fungi, were they the ones he had to pick? There was no way he would be able to do such. They were much taller than three of him standing on top of each other.


Forest of many peculiarities soon reached, the early adult's eyes grew wide at the sights before him. Was it just his imagination, or did this jungle have some sort of magical properties to it? Spotting multiple shrooms lying around beside the trees and inside them, as well, the early adult prepared himself for the climbing sessions of a lifetime.


Ascending the first shroomy tree, the early adult crawled into the space between the unleaved top. Coming across bright blue fugus, the hyena added the future food to the collection. Descending the unusual plant, the early adult prepared himself for the next ascension.


Moving onward towards the next blue pasture, a singular shroom awaited the soldier inside a nest. Seeing such, the early adult blinked. Had the birds been planning to feast on this? Clapping his hand in apology, the soldier soon committed grand theft toadstool.


Climbs continuing for hours on end, multiple shrooms added themselves to the collection one after another. But, as he continued to do so, the soldier could not help but wonder. Were these ones poisonous, too? The rainforests were full of so many unknown toxins and dangers.


Moving back towards the ground, the hyena kept his eyes open for any other shrooms that remained. Scooping up the ones on the ground, not a single one in the area looked any different from the last. Coming to such realization, the soldier scratched the side of his head. Had everything been the same here? How peculiar.


Everything picked up one after another, the soldier could not help but ponder. Could there have been any mushrooms upon the tops of the mushrooms domes? He supposed it was worth a look for. Preparing himself for the return of the climb, the hyena took a long deep breath.


But, as the early adult observed the damp heads above, the edge of the area snuck upon him. Feet slipping upon the ledge for a moment, the soldier caught himself. But, what awaited him down below was a can of worms waiting to be opened. Jumping down, the chimera studied the space below.


Peering downward for minutes on end, the hyena blinked. Was there a space deep enough to crawl into? He knew it was in his best interest to check it out. There had to have been some secret mushrooms waiting for him down below. Readying for the dive of faith, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment.


Finding himself in a large cave underground, a multitude of surprises awaited him. Familiar burgundy haired backside gracing him, and small looking creature beside them, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. The gazelle, what had been standing next to them?


Creature asking about zola mushrooms, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. The critter, was it talking? But, as he thought such, the hyena swore the extra body vanished. Seeing such, the chimera slapped his cheeks. Had he been seeing things? He had to have been, for sure. Gazelle bending down next to nothing, they soon spoke.


"I know," Parisa said, irritated tone of voice. "I'm collecting them, alright?"


Knowing he had no choice but to move past the fawn, the chimera slipped past her. Whatever zola mushrooms were, he needed to take a few. Moving through the cave, for a moment the early adult kept his eyes open for any fungus lurking. Spotting plenty ahead, the hyena started running.


Coming across multiple colorful toadstools adorning various different shades, the hyena blinked as he scooped them up into his palms. Had the shrooms been stickier than the last batch he had collected? He swore they had glued themselves upon his gloves. Ripping them off, they soon fell into the basket.


Moving from area to area, the hyena scratched his head at the sight in front of him. The fungus were they glowing? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Why was he letting his mind wander again? He needed to stop getting distracted. There was nothing amiss about the fungi, for certain.


As the soldier crawled through the cave crevices, the early adult could hear graceful footsteps from afar. Knowing he had to leave some hallucinogenic diamonds behind for her, the chimera moved forward. Next batch soon obtained, the steps only got louder as he kept going.


Rainbow edible fungi glaring daggers at him, the soldier gazed down at the sticky shrooms down in his palms below. What in the world was this spongey material? Were these normal here? Something about them felt rather off about them. But, common sense had been as dead as a fallen Hilichurl upon the battlefield.


Sticky, slimy shrooms soon dropped into the basket. Moving further into the crevices the early adult could feel gloved hands grab ahold of his shoulders. Feeling such, the soldier flinched. Why had someone been touching him? Turning around, a chill dropped down the chimera's spine.


Gazelle holding his right arm hostage, the soldier blinked. Had he taken too many fungi? If such were the case, he needed to apologize for such. Words of remorse on the tip of his tongue, the soldier readied himself to bow downward. But, as he prepared to do so, her words kicked in before his could.


"What are you doing?" Parisa asked, no grace to be had in her voice. "Do you not see what you are picking? Those mushrooms are poisonous."


Hearing Parisa's words, the hyena tilted his head towards the ceiling. These fungus among him were toxic, as well? Had any one he had collected so far been nontoxic? The world of mushrooms was a bitter world of poisons he had not been prepared for in any capacity.


Seeing the Fatui worm collecting multiple highly poisonous mushrooms, Parisa shook their head. Did he not know the difference between fungi that were toxic and nontoxic? Just how unintelligent was he? But, she supposed all the soldiers of the north had an intelligence quotient of ten. He could use a reminder of his idiocy.


"Do you not know which ones are nontoxic?" Parisa asked, no grace to be had in her voice. "Do not pick those, they are poisonous."


Fawn sounding far away, the soldier slapped the backs of his eardrums. Had there been some sort of wall planted between the gazelle and he blocking out sound? Whatever it was she had just said, it did not reach him. Moving along, the shroom hunt soon continued.


Sound dimming around him as the collections kept on going, the soldier rubbed his eyes, for a moment as the next set of shrooms were in his palms. Was it just him, or was there an intense aura surrounding the golden diamonds before him? He had to have been imagining it, surely.


Multiple other fungi assuming the same aura as the others, the chimera blinked. This cave, just what kind of energy did it contain? Whatever it was, he couldn't help but feel the strong intensity of it. Continuing onward for minutes on end, hands soon grabbed him once more.


Fatui worm continuing to collect the toxic mushrooms despite her warning, Parisa locked eyes with the unintelligent soldier. Did he not hear what they just said to him? If he was trying to go out of her way to make her cross, it was certainly doing the trick. Did his subordinates need a reminder from her spear for him to get the picture? But, she perished the thought. Maybe reminding him again would give him a few braincells back.


"You're not a very intelligent Fatui worm, are you?" Parisa asked, tactless. "None of those are safe for consumption." But, she soon clicked her tongue. "Forget it. You're a lost cause." But, as she said such, she could feel a tug on her sleeve. "Could you wait just a minute, please? I'm going." She then turned her attention back towards the Fatui worm. "If you wish to poison yourself, be my guest. I will not stop you."


Fawn soon gone without a trace, the soldier turned back around towards the direction he came. Hearing coming back from the grave as she had spoken to him a second time, the hyena tilted his head. Had the gazelle just called him unintelligent? He supposed he did not blame her, if he had taken the incorrect fungi.


As the hyena returned to the surface, the chimera could not help but ponder. The graceful Parisa, or the violent Parisa, which one had he encountered today? But, he supposed it did not matter. There was no way he would run into her again today. Reaching for the sheet of instructions, the soldier read over his next order of business.


Leaflet informing him his final location was near a den beside a monstrous flower, the chimera could feel his blood turn cold. Flowers in Sumeru were considered monsters? What a horrible classification, for such. But, he supposed some creatures could disguise themselves as innocent things to lure adventurers into a trap. Keeping such in mind, the soldier searched for the cave in question.


Moving upon the eastern path, a chill shot down the soldier's spine at the sight before him. Pathway crackling with electricity, the soldier attempted with all his might to dodge the static everywhere. Shrooms everywhere the eyes could see, including in the walls, the chimera's knees buckled. How did so many of Her Majesty's future food find themselves wedged in such a place?


Knowing he had to make haste, the Mushroom Collection Agency was back in business. Spotting nothing but yellow mushrooms in the shape of a star, the soldier wondered. These shrooms, were they poisonous, too? But, a wave of heat cut his thoughts in half.


Multiple fungi scorched to the touch, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Had the monsters in the area burned everything to a crisp? How very rude of them to do something like that. Picking the burnt toadstools up, the soldier studied them for a moment.


Shrooms looking cooked enough to eat, the early adult shrugged. How could these possibly be toxic? Dropping them in the basket, the early adult's collection rounds soon gained momentum. Not a single fungus among him unburned, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Had the monster inside the den set everything on fire? He needed to proceed with caution, if such were the case.


Scooping up a few fungi that were zapping up a storm, the early adult flinched. Had the cave's electricity been causing some of the food within to become a conductor of its own electricity? Could they be about to burn away at any given moment? How incredibly terrifying.


Closing his eyes as he picked the scorched shrooms up, the early adult dropped them down into the basket. If they were about to catch on fire, the future flames were out of sight, out of mind. Opening his eyes once more, the chimera prepared himself to head upon the battlefield.


So called monster flower nowhere to be seen, the soldier turned his head to the right and left. Whoever said there had been an enemy here to watch out for, they had been on the wrong track, for sure. Stepping foot onto the arena, the next order of shroom collecting had soon begun.


Multiple fungi zapping his palm aplenty as he picked them up, the chimera flinched. The battle ground had it been conducting electricity? What a pain such had been if such were indeed the case. But, he knew he had to bear with it, and move on. The static would vanish after awhile.


Edibles picked up one after another, static clung to his uniform for minutes on end. Becoming a zapping magnet, the soldier let out a deep throated scream. These shroom, why had they been so electrifying? Had there been a lightning storm in Sumeru? The Dendro Nation of Wisdom, had it attracted the gaze of the Electro Archon? He knew such had not been the case, but he felt like it had to have been, at the moment.


Picking up the final set of zappy badness, the early adult took a deep breath. Whoever had made these fungi a lightning magnet, they had picked a terrible place for such. But, as he readied to put all the final set away, a loud roar overtook the arena. Looking upward, the soldier's heart dropped into his stomach.


Monster flower appearing out of nowhere, the soldier ran away as fast as he could muster. The monster, when had it returned from hiding? He needed to run, get out of here, get away before it were to catch him. Legs erupting into a speedy sprint, the early adult hightailed it out of there as fast as his limbs could carry him.


Running faster and faster towards the southern path, the early adult panted up a storm. Why had he been so out of breath from a short run? But, he knew he couldn't let such stop him. Picking up speed again, his chest screamed for minutes on end. Evening soon poking its head in, the hyena accelerated his sprint.


Head spinning faster as his dash about continued, the soldier halted his sprint. Perhaps, he had been running far too fast. Entire rain forest looping in a circle, the hyena had begun to stumble once more. Feet wobbling as Gandha Hill approached, the early adult kept walking.


Knowing he had to return to the city and deliver the shrooms, the early adult kept moving forward. But, the challenges kept on taking the early adult for a loop. World of fuzz soon entering his mind, sweat bathed the soldier as if he had taken a shower in smelly waters.


World continuing to spin as he kept going, the hyena tilted his head towards the moving sky. Had it gotten hotter since he had been here hours prior? He did not know why, but everything felt far more sweltering than before. It had to have just been his imagination, surely.


City only getting closer with every step, the early adult kept swaying back and forth. But, the early adult attempted to snap himself out of it. He could not let the sudden increase in atmospheric temperature eat him alive. The city, he had to get back there, right now. He knew, that if he were even a second too late, the Agent would be furious with him.


But, such entrance towards the city never came, fuzziness hitting its peak, the hyena's vision had become starry. Everything a blur, the chimera could feel himself fall backwards. Backside landing upon the grass, the world spun around three-hundred-sixty-five degrees. Consciousness slipping away, one final dazed thought broke through.


Was it summer?


***


Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult life. The cycle was a never ending circle of doom, flipping the panels back to the torture side upon the board game every single turn. The cards never yielding a positive result, rigged from the beginning. The night before him would rig the game even further.


Before him had been a field of anemones. Seeing such flowers, a wave of unease flowed through him. Those flowers, hadn't they been a symbol of death? Doom bell tolling in his head as he gazed at them, the soldier would not sit beside them. His dream life, would it end if he were to stand beside them? But, such had not been the only thing that awaited him.


Standing off in the corner had been a face he would never forget. Green hair and green eyes he would recognize anywhere. Hase in the corner, adorning the clothes from his stolen childhood with the widest grin on her face, a wave of confusion flowed through him. His sister, what was she doing here? Something was off, for sure. Eyes soon on him, she soon spoke.


"Let's go pumpkin picking!" Dream Hase exclaimed, smiling.


Hearing such, the soldier followed behind his subconscious kin. But, as he continued to follow her, the waves of unease would not cease, even for a moment. Hase, why was she here in the dream world with him? Why did she wish to go pumpkin picking with him? Surely, such event not longer carried fond memories. But what awaited him was no fruit to speak of, whatsoever.


Seeing a large wooden machine with a blade at the top looking ready to cut a head it were to fall upon, the early adult's dream body froze. Hase, just where was she taking him? That device, if she were to take him there, his life would end, in an instant. What was going on, why was she leading him to this? He knew he needed to ask her where she was taking him.


"Hase, where are you taking me?!" the early adult screamed, anxious tone of voice. Volume picking up, he soon repeated himself. "Hase!" But, a laugh soon came his way.


"So, I really do look like your sister, don't I?" 'Hase' responded, giggling. "You're so easy to fool!"


Blinding light soon engulfing the dream world, a tall Hilichurl with a blood red cape, grabbed ahold of the hyena's shoulders. This monster, why was it pushing him towards the blade machine? Hase, had she ever truly been here at all? It was almost if a god had been pulling the strings of his life, determining every factor of what happened moment by moment.


Hilichurl dropping him down into the wooden device, the hyena swore he could hear the creature laughing. Hands holding the rope, a blade came crashing down from up above. Sharp weapon soon coming for his neck, the early adult let out a scream as the world went black around him. Dream life slipping away once more, one final thought crept through.


He was quite gullible, indeed.


***


"It hurts, everything hurts.
This curse, it is spreading. It


Is spreading. It's
Spreading, it's spreading, it's spreading, it's spreading. It's


Getting worse. My toes, they have succumb.
Everything hurts, please help me!
This is painful, someone, please, help me!
This is painful. someone, please, help me!
I am becoming Noctilucous Jade. I am becoming
Noctilucous Jade. Someone, please
Get rid of this curse, I am hurting. The gazelles,


Why did they do this to me? Revenge?
Obviously. Why couldn't they have been satisfied at their first attempt at
Revenge against me? I cannot
See how this is a feasible way to
Eliminate me.





How could they do this to me?
Everything hurts, please, someone, help me!
Liquidate my suffering,
Put it into bankruptcy.


My hands, my arms, they are stone completely.
Everything hurts, someone help me!


Someone, please, anyone, help me!
Oh, but I mustn't complain. I
Mustn't say anything.
Everything I am feeling must stay in the jar. Do not
Open my mouth, there's work to be done.
No complaining, no crying, no nothing.
Everything may hurt, but I have no choice but to keep working. Or


She'll kill me.
That's right, I am just a pawn
On the chessboard. A
Pawn, ready for the checkmate. My current condition?


That does not matter. I
Have to keep going.
I have to keep working. This
Stone, it won't be here for all of eternity.


My body will heal,
And the pain will die.
Do not complain, do
Not falter. I have to keep working.
Every single day I am assigned
Something, that's how it has to be.
So, stop complaining. Get to working."


Coming to somewhere unknown to him, the soldier placed his glasses over his eyes. Where in the world was he? But, he knew where he had been did not matter. The Agent, he had to go look for him right away. Lifting himself up from the covers, a new horror let itself be known.


Toes pitch black and boils pulsating even worse than yesterday, the early adult let out a scream. The curse, had it spread even further? Breaking into a puddle of tears, the questions kept rolling. Why was this happening to him? The abyssal gazelles, what did he do to deserve this revenge blow from him? But, as his tears kept falling, his head pounded like a jackhammer.


Slipping socks over his blackening feet, the early adult placed his uniform over his partially human body immediately. It was fine. Everything was alright. Surely, he was just dirty. He just did not have a chance to cleanse himself. Surely, a nice long wash, and everything would go away.


Agent studying him for minutes on end as he stepped outside of the room unknown, the soldier broke into a sweat. Why was he looking at him like that? Look of suspicion plastered all over him, the hyena's heart skipped more than six beats. Could he stop staring into his soul? Wasn't there work to be done?


"Stay right here, soldier," the Agent said in a serious tone. "One of our subordinates has gone to Sumeru City to fetch you a doctor. You look far worse than yesterday."


The soldier flinched. The Agent told another member of the Fatui about his current condition? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Hadn't he informed him yesterday he was sunburned? Ridiculous. He shouldn't have gone blowing the whistle to someone else. The lie, he had to bring it back to haunt him right away.


"Didn't I tell you yesterday, sir? I'm just sunburned!" the hyena exclaimed uncharacteristically. "Stop concerning yourself over it!" But, the soldier soon covered his mouth. Did he just blurt that out? He was in trouble. Legs shaking, he bowed an apology. "I'm sorry for talking back to you, sir!" But, as he lifted his head back up, a freezing hand had soon been upon his forehead. Feeling such, the soldier flinched. The Agent, why was he touching him? He needed to keep his hands to himself. But, his thoughts were soon interrupted as a response had come his way.


"Soldier, you're burning up," the Agent responded. "You're in no condition to be working." But, as he had done so, his hand had been swatted away.


"Stop touching me, sir!" the hyena responded in an uncharacteristically loud tone. "I'm just sunburned!" Clapping his gloved hands together, desperation kicked in. "Please, just give me work! Her Majesty is going to kill me!"


The Agent shook his head from behind his mask. His subordinate's worth ethnic was too good sometimes. Would making up an order satisfy him enough? He knew everything would go in circles if he rejected such. Letting out the first order that came to him, he returned his attention towards the weak mess in front of him.


"Fine, soldier, since you're so insistent, go hunt Specters and collect their nuclei," the Agent responded. "But, if someone discovers you unconscious again, I am taking you to the hospital in Sumeru City." An ill soldier was useless soldier. "Buy yourself a bag and information about the Specter's whereabouts in the alleyways before departing."


Orders coming his way, the soldier nodded. Observing the area, for a moment as he walked around, the early adult had come to an immediate conclusion. He had been in Port Ormos. The scammy merchant, would he have to deal with her again? Head continuing to pound as a generic nobody said he would take him to the big d, the early adult scratched the back of his ears. What did this person just say?


Pink haired petit merchant woman telling the generic nobody to not call her big d, the escort soon left the area. Scammy lady giving him the biggest of grins, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Just how much Mora was she going to rake out of him now? However much it was about to be, he knew he needed to prepare to empty his wallet for her.


"Hello, dear customer," the scammy merchant greeted. "If you have Mora, my doors are always open!"


Scammy merchant giving the same exact greeting as last time, the soldier let out a groan. Did she have to announce herself in such a way? She was basically just telling everyone she was out for their wallets. Pointing at the bag with a claymore and scroll poking out of it, he gave the lady a sharp look.


"You want the Adventurer's Guide to killing Specters?" the scammy merchant asked. "That'll be one-hundred-fifty-thousand Mora!"


Hearing such a number, pain nibbled on the early adult's brain. She was asking for how much now? One-hundred-fifty-thousand Mora for a bag with a claymore in it? Absolutely outrageous. What a ripoff. But, he knew he had no choice but to buy it. Head spinning in circles as he handed the coins off to her, he swore he could hear her singing about the Mora she just robbed off his person.


"The bag is yours!" the scammy merchant exclaimed. "Come back soon, dear customer!"


Placing the bag on his backside with a heavy struggle, the early adult huffed and puffed. Was it just him, or had lifting things become extremely difficult all of a sudden? Bag secured upon his shoulders, the chimera exited the alleyways. Seating himself at a table, for a moment, he gazed at the scroll.


Scroll informing him the Specters had been all along the pathway towards some place he had never heard of before known as Yasna Monument, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Had he been reading that right? He only had to head north? But, he supposed the scroll wasn't lying.


Exiting the port city, the early adult prepared himself for any monsters that were about to come his way. Immediately spotting a group of specters up ahead, the early adult's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. But, as he had done so, his head spun cycles. Closing his eyes for a moment, the soldier could feel heat flow through his face once more.


Shaking everything off, the soldier kept moving. Why was he letting himself let his current weakness win? Absolutely ridiculous. He could not allow for such to happen. Sprinting ahead, the early adult prepared himself for battle. Floating monsters soon in front of him, the hyena reached for the greatsword in his bag.


But, as the early adult reached for the claymore, his arms did not move for minutes on end. Stone locking him into place, a wave of terror flowed through him. The jade biting down on him, had it soaked into his veins? Move, he needed to move. Why wasn't he moving?


Hands remaining stuck in place for minutes on end, the soldier let out a scream. The curse, was it spreading further? He was on the job right now, he could not allowed this to happen. Taking multiple deep breaths, the tears soon fell. Everything was falling apart.


Muscles kicking themselves into shape after half an hour of immobility, the soldier grabbed the greatsword from his back. Large claymore in the shape of a machete lugged into his hands, the hyena flinched. His weapon, why had it been so heavy? But, he knew he had to bear with the weight, no matter what.


Specter creatures blasting balls of water on him as the heavy glorified killer kitchen knife swung forward. Weight throwing him for a loop, not single strike hit the monster for even a moment. Creature floating towards him with a fury, the power of Hydro soaked him a new one.


Monster floating the right and left with every struggled swing, the early adult let out a grunt. This creature, was it flying away to taunt him? He was not amused in the slightest. Weakly jumping to the left, the early adult swung and missed for what felt like the fifth time today.


Forces of Hydro drenching him further, the chimera broke out into a shiver as the jets let themselves loose once more, with feeling. Uniform a sopping mess, the hyena grit his teeth. Why was he failing at such an easy task? A specter, hadn't it been nothing more than a different species of Slime? He needed to get it together, right this instant.


Attempting to shift his weight for minutes on end, the early adult swung the blade with all his might. Creature floating towards the left and right for minutes on end, the hyena kept his wild swipes about going. Weapon eventually connecting, the tables turned as minutes soon became hours.


Creature eventually reaching its demise, a slimy drop bounced onto the rainforest floors. Collecting the drops, the early adult winced. What in the world was this disgusting ball of slime? But, he knew he had no choice but to bag it. Ready to move on, the hyena kept heading north.


Multiple enemies trying to float to the hills as he approached them, the early adult got his blade ready once more. But, as he had done such, the rapid floating movement took over once more. Attacks of wind, ice, and rock coming his way with every float about, the early adult could feel his energy begin to leave him.


Creatures continuously gaining the advantage, the early adult could feel his energy drain further with every given second. Blade heavier the further he swung it, tears soon streamed down the chimera's cheek. Had he become nothing more than a useless pile of rocks? If Her Majesty had seen him now, she would be disappointed in him, for sure.


But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, giving up now? He had to move. He couldn't let the stone take him away, no matter what. Such could not happen. Attacks continuing to throw him for a loop for minutes on end, the early adult begged to the Dendro Archon he was not supposed to worship to place a zipper on the curse, just for a moment.


Movement returning from the dead after about twenty minutes, the soldier swung the large glorified knife forward. First Specter sent back to its grave after about fifty strikes, the early adult broke out into a pant. Was it just him, or did every single battle feel like he had been running a marathon?


Final set of monsters in the area taken out of their misery, the soldier readied to move forward. But, as he kept heading north, the world spun in loops. Rapidly shaking his head, the chimera kept walking. He did not have time for any of this. Yasna Monument, he had to reach it, no matter what. Whatever malaise was knocking on the door, it was not welcome at this point in time.


Moving ahead to the best of his ability, a peculiar path awaited the soldier. Spotting a strange area that looked like a greenhouse, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had he found himself near a gardening city? Perhaps, just maybe, if at any point in the future, he had a day off, he should check it out.


Spotting multiple students walking around the premises, another set of questions broke through him. This area, had it been some sort of facility for Akademiya students? If such were the case, he needed to leave, right away. Slinking past the students possibly studying, the chimera headed upon the northern path.


But, as he had done so, a group of obstacles soon awaited him. Panther twins and the mercenary bodyguard fighting multiple monsters together, the enemies had fallen to their knees in one fell swoop. Seeing such, the soldier backed two steps away. Had these three been in the middle of some sort of commission? He needed to get out the way. But, as he had done so, he swayed downward.


Opening his eyes once more, the soldier flinched at the sight before. Finding himself upon Bogart's shoulder, the chimera backed multiple steps away. What just happened, why did he let himself fall? He needed to apologize right away. But as readied to do so, a commotion kicked itself into overdrive.


"Did another monster just hit me? Bring it on!" Bogart shouted. But, it soon turned around. Spotting Siorc in the corner, it swiped its finger across its nose. "Wowza! Siorc, was that you? You trying to fight monsters, too? The more the merrier!" But Waiola soon interrupted.


"I don't think you should be encouraging he joins us, Bogart," Waiola said, shaking her head. "He looks rather unwell." She then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, are you alright?" She then turned towards Bogart. "Bogart, we should take him to Gandharva Ville."


Waiola attempting to bring up Gandharvha Ville, the soldier turned his head off towards the opposite direction. What business was it of hers what his current condition was? They happened to stumble upon one another. Giving Waiola a defiant shake of the head, he turned his attention towards Bogart.


Bogart adorning a bright blue patterned dress with golden embroidery and beautiful headdress, the early adult swore he could feel his cheeks catch fire. Was it just him, or had the rainforest gotten even hotter just a second ago? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, admiring his outfit? Recalling his question, his words bled out of his mouth.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded, voice uncharacteristically audible. "I am fighting monsters, too."


"Awesomesauce! There's more where that came from for both of us!" Bogart shouted with a goofy grin plastered on his face. But, he had soon interrupted.


"We're going with him," Waiola demanded. But, a complaint had been filed almost immediately.


"Come on, Waiola, we're with ----- right now!" Bogart shouted.


"I don't want him going alone," Waiola responded, shaking her head. "Can't you see how he looks, Bogart?" She then turned towards Siorc. "We're helping you out, and then taking you straight to Gandharva Ville. Got it?" As such commotion stirred, another voice added itself to the mix.


"Xerxes, it's cool, go help your pal," the mercenary bodyguard said. "Business is business. Us desertfolk gotta take what we get."


Waiola demanding she join him on his Specter battle mission, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Who did she think she was, barging into his mission? He didn't need any sort of assistance whatsoever. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Why was he getting so snappy? How unlike him. Taking a deep breath, he gave the taller panther chimera a nod. He supposed he appreciated their assistance.


"Aww, yeah, let's get down and dirty!" Bogart exclaimed.


Waiola soon taking the lead, the soldier swore he could hear her say there had been a cave up ahead that had more Specters to take care of. Hearing such, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had they gotten a commission to fight the same monsters as he? Coincidence was quite the contagious disease, indeed.


Soon escorted to a peculiar underground cave with multiple floors and domain in the corner, Specters flew around the area as if they owned the place. Seeing such, the early adult's legs shook. Just how many floors was this place? He could not help but feel he was about to have his work cut out for him.


Waiola getting her bow ready as Specters had appeared from afar, multiple enemies had been removed from the equation before the hyena could even blink. Seeing such, the soldier turned towards the panther chimera. Just how far was her bow able to reach? Archers were the strongest amongst them all, for sure.


Specters soon floating towards him, the soldier placed his blade in front of him. Swinging with a heavy amount of struggle, the early adult let out a scream. What about this claymore made it so heavy? He needed to get used to the weight, or he would be no more than a useless hunk of junk.


Specters destroyed with the hyena and shorter panther chimera's combined efforts, the party of two moved on ahead towards the next floor. Specters flying around all over the place, the chimera's legs erupted into a sprint. Breath dying the faster he were to run, the chimera kept going.


Panther twins decimating the floating monsters in front of him, the soldier could feel sweat bathe him deep. Just how powerful were these two? He needed to step up his game before they were to take all the glory. Soon reaching the third floor within the secret underground cavern world, the chimera placed his blade in front of him.


Specters channeling the power of Electro in front of him, the early adult placed his blade in front of him. Charging forward, the hyena let out a battle cry. Swiping left, right, upside down, not inside out, and center, his screams continued. Monster from the possible afterlife looking ready to blow, he kept the momentum going.


Creature letting it rip, the soldier jumped three steps back. But, such dodge had almost been too late. Electricity decorating his uniform, the early adult flinched. Had his legs been struggling to move now, too? He was quite the useless paperweight upon this battlefield of elements.


Soon reaching the final floor, Waiola and Bogart soon dished out the final set of attacks within the cave's crevices. Seeing such, the early adult let out a meek sigh. Had he not been doing enough? Her Majesty would be disappointed in him, without a doubt. But, as he thought such, he could hear the next round of demands.


Waiola soon informing him they would be heading to Yasna Monument next, the group of three exited the area. Panthers walking ahead of him, the early adult followed behind in silence. Long traverse south for almost an hour, a wave of fuzziness overtook the hyena as he kept going.


Briefly blinking out of existence, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. What was he doing again? How did he get here? But, the soldier snapped himself out of his dazed stupor. Right. He was fighting Specters, how could he possibly forget? Soon reaching a short cave with filled water, multiple specters awaited his attention.


Waiola and Bogart knocking out multiple floating monsters after ten strikes together, the soldier blinked. Teamwork was the dreamwork, indeed. How had these two been so in sync with one another? He swore even their breathing was on point? But, he supposed twins were synchronized with eachother since the day they were born. He would never know what such felt like.


Creatures ramming their rocky bodies into him, the soldier let out a yelp. Blade clanging with the enemy, the early adult's legs shook with a fervor. This enemy, its body was cold, hard, rocky, slimy. Fighting back with all his might, the monster's minutes were about to become numbered.


Monster fading into the ether after about twenty strikes and twenty counter hits back, the early adult could feel his breath weaken. Forcing himself to do his breathing exercises, the party of three headed off towards the shallow waters within the unknown area. But, as he pressed on further, the army had been done and dealt with.


Bogart pressing his spear into every single enemy, the soldier blinked as the Specters had becoming nothing but dust upon the wind. Hearing the shorter panther chimera let out a cheer, the early adult blinked again. Had he been enjoying himself? But, the soldier threw such questions away. If that was what he enjoyed, there was no reason for judgement.


Waiola once again informing Bogart and he they had one final cave to head towards, she soon took the lead. Straggling behind the duo in front of him, the hyena's mind wandered, for a moment. Did Waiola always like being charge of the situation? The early adult did not know why, but he could sense of leadership flowing through her.


Heading south for over an hour, the panther twins had soon lead him towards an area with multiple ruins. Party of two climbing upwards towards a hole in the corner, the early adult readied for his ascent upward, as well. Such, however was met with immediate difficulties.


Stone hands freezing in place as he attempted to climb upward, the soldier let out a grunt. The curse, why did it decide to strike now, of all times? Stuck in place for minutes on end, his grunts continued. Panther twins running towards him, they gave one another sharp glances.


"Bogart, I think he's stuck," Waiola said. "We need to pull him up."


"Oh, golly, gee, Waiola, where did you get that idea from?" Bogart said sarcastically.


"Bogart, why are you getting fresh with me?" Waiola asked, irritated.


"Jeepers, Waiola! Can't you take a little bit of a joke?" Bogart exclaimed. But he soon read the room. "Aww, jeez, never mind." Placing his right claw onto Siorc's right hand, he readied to pull. "Alrighty. I'll take his right one, then. Come on, Waiola, grab his left! What are you waiting for?"


Waiola and Bogart pulling him upward, the soldier swore he could hear Bogart saying he's a lightweight. Hearing such, the chimera's cheeks grew red enough to invent an entirely new shade of crimson. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. It was time to move forward, arms usable or not.


Reaching a particularly deep underground cave, multiple Specters added themselves to the battle table full course meal. Waiola and Bogart getting down and dirty in front of him, multiple enemies had been taken out of the picture one after another. But, easy street did not last long.


Specters wielding the powers of Electro and Hydro almost exclusively, neither Waiola watery arrows, nor Bogart's rings of electricity were able to get the job done. Duo attempting to swap enemies, as well, the opposite's elements did not do anything, either.


Twins bickering for a moment as their attacks did nothing, the soldier's ears rung. Why were they fighting now? Head spinning as their arguments only got louder, the hyena attempted to tune their arguments out. World around him silent, the soldier brought his blade in front of him. Movement coming back from the dead, he swung forward.


Blade doing its duty, the panther twins added their physical prowess to the battle, as well. Elementless arrows and spear without electricity adding themselves to the equation, the hyena kept pressing onward. Multiple Specters decimated with the power of teamwork, the fights soon returned to easy street.


But, easy street had soon become pain city as the battle's climax had come out of the woodworks. Entire body burning, the early adult's head pulsed as if his heart had been moved up towards his brain. But, the hyena attempted to numb such. This was no time to allow his weakness to win.


Greatsword swinging and landing a base hit, the last Specter had been taken out of the picture. Waiola and Bogart celebrating with one another in loud unison, the pulse soon returned. Head pounding as if he had been hit by a hammer, the world burned again. But, as the pain grew stronger, another emerged.


Chest getting tighter as the seconds sped themselves up, an intense wave of fuzziness overtook the soldier. Head pounding harder with every given second, the chimera could feel himself fall backwards. Everything was burning, melting, heating up. Land of unconsciousness taking him away, one final thought took him away as the blackness ate him up like a snack.


Why is his body fighting him?


***


Dreaming continued its never ending cycle of anguish within the soldier's subconscious mind. The wheel would spin and land on misfortune every single time, with every positive space upon the game board removed ages ago. The wheel would land on the double misfortune spot in the night before him with a chance of decupling the torment odds to the maximum capacity.


Before him had been an entire field of sawblades with roses decorating them. Seeing such obstacle, the soldier attempted with all his might to dodge them. But, such had been a failure before it could even begin. Dream forces pushing him forward, torture had become his only friend.


Arms and legs shredded to smithereens, the early adult's dream body had begun to fall over. But, such had been the biggest subconscious mistake of the century. Landing himself right into the trap, the blades circled around him, in a split second. Doom looming over him, the hyena said his dream goodbyes.


Saws soon devouring the soldier, the early adult closed his eyes. The blades were deep, sharp, the final death tool in the no longer being alive in the dream coffin. Back sliced up to ribbons, the early adult embraced the end. Sharp edges hugging him from behind for dream minutes on end, the timer ticked down to zero.


He was pushing up daises.


***


"It hurts, I am becoming Noctilucous Jade. It hurts, I


Am becoming Noctilucous Jade.
My leg, it is black now, too. The


Jade, it's consuming me.
Abyssal gazelles, are you happy now? Look what you've
Done to me. I am become Noctilucous Jade.
Everything hurts, I feel like crying. My


Tears, will they become stone, too? I feel so
Hot, I'm burning.
Everything hurts. I am becoming Noctilucous


Jade. Someone, please help me!
Ah, who am I kidding?
Don't ask for help.
Everything is fine. Everything


Is fine. Everything is fine. Everything is fine.
So stop complaining. I'm not allowed. Her


Majesty is watching me.
Everything is fine, everything is fine, everything is fine, everything is fine, everything is fine everything is fine."


Coming to the next morning somewhere unknown to him, the soldier let out a scream. Finding himself in a room alone, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Where was he? Had he been taken back to Snezhnaya? Wherever he had been, he did not recognize it, whatsoever.


Lifting himself up from the covers, terror awaited the soldier. Left leg a stony greyish black all the way up to right below his knee, the soldier let out a deep wail. The curse why was it spreading further? The gazelles hadn't they been satisfied by now? Tears bursting down onto his cheeks, everything was waterworks.


Knowing he had to leave and bring the Agent the nuclei, the soldier steeled himself. He could not stay here for a second longer. Removing himself from whatever bed he had found himself in, the soldier stood to his feet. Readying to exit the area, the chimera prepared himself for takeoff.


But, immediately upon standing, the soldier's energy had become a carcass in a casket. Dead and gone, with no one coming to the funeral. Everything burning, the early adult stood still. Why was he just standing there? Where did his energy go? Forcing himself forward, the chimera readied to bolt for the door. Such attempt, however, had been a failure.


Forest Watcher Leader and his trainee stepping through the door, sharp eyes had soon been on him. Seeing the duo, it had come to the soldier immediately. Had he been taken to Gandharvha Ville? Realizing such, the early adult's head spun in cycles. How did he get here? There was no way he could stay here a moment longer. But, a challenge kicked off as he once again attempted to leave.


"Go back to bed, you are ill," the forest watcher leader demanded. "Waiola and Bogart brought you here, you're welcome." As he said such, his hands had been behind his furry ears. He then turned to his trainee. "------, grab the thermometer."


"On it, Master ---------!" the trainee replied.


Hearing such demands, the early adult shook his head in defiance. He was ill? What a ridiculous statement. Such had been far from the truth. He was cursed. Absolutely, positively, without any semblance of a doubt, there was nothing wrong here. Words bleeding out they released himself.


"What are you talking about, sir? I'm not ill! You're making that up," the soldier responded, laughing. "I don't have time for this. I have to go back to work." But, as he said such, a glass rod had been forced into his mouth.


Cold, germy rod's mercury rising, the early adult gazed at the red moving past thirty-five. Blood water tracing past thirty-six, thirty-seven, and thirty-eight as well, the soldier's heart skipped a beat. Why was it still going up? He was cursed. This tool was broken, for sure. Number hovering towards thirty-nine and halting, the early adult repeated such thoughts. That thing was broken, for sure. Furry eared man grabbing the gross, slimy object, he immediately shook his head.


"No," the furry eared man said sarcastically. As he said such, he placed the man back into the bed. "Now, be quiet while we get you a doctor."


Forest ranger trainee going with him, the soldier waited ten minutes after their departure. No one stepping inside the room of the unknown, the soldier made a run for it. Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. He could not stay here. What did those numbers matter anyway? He was a hyena chimera, not a human. Surely, whatever human illness they perceived for him to have, he did not have such.


Finding the Agent relatively quickly, concerned eyes were upon him as he handed over the bag of Specter Nuclei. Agent telling him he looked worse today, the soldier held back the urge to talk back. Begging of giving him orders coming his way, a sigh released from his subordinate's covered throat.


Agent telling him to go fight lost dolls and gather their wind up keys, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. What in the world did he just hear him say? He couldn't help but feel this job was just invented out of thin air. Informed they were in Gandarvha Ville and in the forest up north, the soldier let out a groan. Back into furry eared man territory. He would need to avoid him at all costs.


Leaving Sumeru City behind once again, the early adult could not help but wonder. His job, why had it sounded fake? But, he early adult shook his head. That couldn't have possibly been the case. Her Majesty, she always wanted spoils from him. Surely, if he got such for her, no disappointment would come her way.


But, as the soldier headed towards Chinvat Ravine, a feeling of stone engulfed him. Body stuck upon the bridge for minutes on end, a wave of doom flowed through him. The curse, had it taken his legs with it, too? Move, he needed to move. He needed to return to the village and head off to the jungle up north right away.


Legs moving once more after about ten minutes of immobility, a sea of tiny dolls with the appearance of the Fontaine fashion designer danced around in a circle. These monsters, they were no big deal, he would be done with them in the blink of a bespectacled eye, for sure. Greatsword in front of him, the battle soon begun.


Easy mode never came, strange dolls fighting him with the strength of a real man, the soldier let out a grunt. These dolls, where did they get their strength from? Wherever they had obtained it, they were a formidable opponent, indeed. Slicing and dicing for hours on end, the enemies soon fell.


Heading through the northern path, the chimera's fights versus the dolls kept on going weak. Wind up keys dropping down onto the ground one after another, the soldier tilted his head as the object landed into his gloved hands. Was it just him, or did the tool to turn the dolls on feel lighter than a normal switch?


Continuing to fight upon the northern pathway, the early adult's blade kept pressing on. More oddly feminine dolls dropping dead, the plastic wind up keys dropped aplenty. Pocketing every single one of them, the chimera kept the momentum going for minutes on end. But, as he moved through Gandharva Ville, a disturbance added itself to the force.


Feeling a sudden tickle scratch his throat, the soldier had begun to cough and hack as if he had been around smoke. Cough only continuing, a wave of malaise flowed through him. As such had gotten out of control for minutes on end, jade poked his esophagus for the entire duration.


Ignoring such feeling, the early adult slapped his chest. Had he gotten such disgusting action out of his system? It was time to go. There were more dolls to destroy. But, as he kept on fighting, he could feel his mind flutter away like a butterfly on the wind. Blade swinging with far less precision, his thoughts flew completely off course.


Sense floating away, as well, the soldier could not help but wonder. The rainforest, had it always been this fluffy? The grass beneath his heelless shoes, had it become snow? Everything was white, soft, as cloudy as could be. But, as he had been lost in his own little world, a voice dragged him back into reality.


"Why did you run off?" the furry eared man scolded. "I told you to stay put while--." But his words were soon interrupted.


"Leave me alone!" the hyena blurted out, running as fast as he could.


As the soldier dashed through Gandha Hill, the soldier returned to his senses. Why did he say that to the furry eared man? Where were his manners? The jade living in his throat, had it been forcing him to blurt things out? He had been saying hundreds of words too many.


Continuing onward, multiple dolls danced around the area with all their might. Enemies dropping down after what felt like a hundred strikes, the soldier's thoughts had continued to wander once more. What would it be like to be a windup doll? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Wrong universe. He was not some struggling song-writing teenager with a dark blue haired android girl as his only company in a dollhouse world.


Continuing north for hours on end, the enemies soon spotted him. Puppets heading towards a hidden cavern, the soldier placed his blade in front of him. But, such had been an action too soon. Dolls running away through the strange mushroom forest, the early adult picked up the speed. He needed to catch them right away.


Enemies running as fast as they possibly could with their stubby feet, the soldier had begun to run faster. Although, his speed had not been enough. Creatures of human creation running off further throughout the area, the chimera kept the momentum going. He had to catch up to them before they were to get too far away.


Moving faster with every given second, the early adult could feel the tickle engulf his throat once more. Such occurrence coming back to haunt him, the soldier stopped running. Hacking up a storm, the soldier swore if he were to cough any harder, his lungs would fall out. Taking a long deep breath, the chase continued.


Running after them upon a western path, the hyena had soon been front and center with the enemies. Blade doing its bidding for about one hundred strikes, the chimera had begun to pant up a storm. First set of dolls decimated, the chimera went in further into the cave of many hidden mysteries.


As the soldier kept the battles going, green arrows out of nowhere, and a hooded cat figure had invited themselves to the party. Seeing such assists from an invisible benefactor, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Victory coming from anonymous, the last puppet soon fell. Letting out a huffed breath, the chimera readied to exit the cave.


However, as the chimera prepared to turn back, the largest tickle of them all took the chimera away. Hacking uncontrollably for minutes on end, a wave of dizziness flowed through him. Feeling an uncomfortable liquid travel upward towards the esophagus, the soldier bent over towards the cave ground.


Red liquid dropping down onto the cave floor, the ground around him shook. But, as the early adult kept coughing, another surprise added itself to the mixture below him. Sea of red pouring out further, bits of Noctilucous Jade dropped down into the crimson puddle below. Head churning and spinning, his body fell to the cave floor.


Poof.


***


Coming to in another bed unknown to him, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Where in the world had he been taken to this time? He did not have time to sit around here. He needed to leave right away. But, he had soon been foiled as the trainee stepped in.


"Oh, good, you're awake," the forest ranger trainee said. "Master -------- is getting a doctor for you in the city. Please don't run away, this time!"


But, such pleads had been unheard. Slipping out from the bed, the hyena made a run for it. A doctor? Unnecessary? He did not need such a thing. The curse, surely, it would go away on its own. Dashing back towards the capital city of Sumeru, the Agent's mask was soon on him. Plastic wind up keys snatched, his gloved hands were soon pointing at his back pocket.


"Enough, soldier," the Agent responded. "Go back to Snezhnaya." There was a serious tone in his voice.


Hearing such, the early adult removed his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. What was with the serious tone in his voice, of all sudden? But, he knew he could not disobey his orders. Military barracks waypoint soon highlighted, the icy cold hallways soon awaited him once more.


Reaching the soundproof room after thirty minutes of struggled walking, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why had everyone been acting as though he was diseased? He was cursed. There was no illness to be had here. It would run its course, surely once the abyssal gazelles had been satisfied. But, as such thoughts poured in, the tickle returned.


Cough taking full control of him, the early adult bent over. Pools of crimson coming out of him as the fit had taken away his freedom, a lump of Noctilucous Jade released itself from his throat. Seeing such, fear swallowed the soldier whole. What was happening to him? Why was he releasing bloody jade? Entire body shaking, another cough overtook him.


Another lump of jade into the crimson pool below, the early adult let out a shout. The curse, it was consuming him. His insides, would they all soon become jade, too? Fears breaking him apart, he could feel another tickle in his throat ready to control him. Slapping his chest for minutes on end, the chimera scrubbed the icy cold floors for minutes on end.


Wave of extreme tiredness immediately overtaking him as such had been finished, the early adult removed his weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed as well, he crawled into the uncomfortable bed. As the hyena closed his eyes, his thoughts raced on repeat. The curse, surely, it would come to pass. It had to, surely. Surely, the hooded stranger's revenge would soon be realized. The curse would pass eventually, surely. Thoughts continuing to loop, the tickle readied its last hurrah.


Warm cough breaking through, the soldier shook up a storm as his bed had been given a bloody jade gift. Letting out a scream, the hyena tossed the mineral away. Eyes fluttering shut, the hyena could feel the dream world almost ready to invite him back in. Breaths getting shallower with every given second, the soldier attempted to steady his breathing. World of sleep finally taking him away for the evening, one last thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


The curse, it would come to pass soon, surely.


Surely, this would all be over soon.

 

[Palamon]

24. Seirai's Maple Pile of Chaos! A Leafy Youkai Adventure

"Help me, help, me, help me, help me
Everything hurts,
Look at me, see what's happening,
Please, someone help me, help me, help


Me, help me, help me,
Everything is black, tipped with jade,


Please, someone, help me,
Look at me,
Everything is jade now
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Someone, help me, help me
Everything is jade now


Help me, help me help me
Even my insides have been consumed
Look at what's happening to me!
Please, help me!


My body is gone,
Everything but my head and upper chest are greyish black.


It hurts it hurts, it hurts, it hurts, it hurts.
This curse, is it going to end me?


Hahahahahahahahahahahaha!
Utter annihilation,
Really, at this point, just end me.
Take all this pain away. No,
Stop it, stop it, stop it.


I cannot perish here, I


Cannot perish here.
Absolutely not. No way.
No way, no way, no way
No way, no way, no way. Get
Over it, stop dooming and glooming.
Take my mind out of this gutter. Breathe, breathe, breathe. Inhale


Exhale, inhale, exhale.
Ah, that's right, I can't even breathe.
That's right! The curse took that, too.


I can barely take any more, end me! No,


Cut it out, stop it,
Abdicate this doom and gloom,
No more, no more, no more.


Bring my thoughts to
Another place
Right this second
Everything will be fine
Listen to that inner never
Yielding soldier


Brain. Everything is fine.
Right, right, right,
Everything is
Absolutely, positively fine.
There is no reason to
Holler, whatsoever.
Everything is absolutely fine.


What kind of job awaits me today
Here in this cold breeze,
A moment of weakness,
That will only lead to disappointment.


I have to keep going,
So, stop screaming,


Halt everything,
After all, I cannot say anything.
Place that zipper on
Place that zipper on deep.
Everything is fine.
No more crying,
No more screaming.
I am fine
Nothing is wrong here
Get ready for work.


That's the key to successful living.
Obedience is key.


My pain doesn't matter.
Everything will be fine.


The Cryo Archon
Hardly cares, so
Everything is fine, everything is fine.


All of this will go away.
Right, all of this will go away
Crack, disappear, so stop
Howling. Get to work,
Or Her Majesty will kill me.
No more complaining.
Such is not allowed, anyway.


Here is to yet
Another day of work.
Vaminos, whatever that means.
Everything is fine.


Look the other way,
Everything is fine, everything is
Fine, everything is fine,
There is nothing wrong with


Me. My curse will go away, surely.
Everything is fine. Everything is fine."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic adult life. The cycle was a hammer of misfortune thrown upon a dart board that never failed to hit the target. The wheel of misfortune would continue onward on in the night before him, as well, quadruple fold and then some.


Before him had been a field of gladioluses. Seeing such flowers, an immediate wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Hadn't those been something one would see in a bouquet at a funeral? Was he about to be thrown into a coffin? He knew, whatever was about to happen, something terrifying was going to await him, guaranteed.


Knowing letting doom take him over would do him no good, the soldier seated himself beside the fields of possible death. But, such had been impossible. Despair looming over his shoulder, ready to come in for the chokehold, the early adult stared off into dream space. Any second now, he would burn away, combust, become ashes upon the wind.


But, there was nothing. No one.


Only silence.


Silence looping on repeat for dream hours on end, a heavy wave of unease flowed through the hyena. The chimera did not know why, but he could feel a heavier sense of terror flow through him than usual. Not a single soul stirring within the not reality before him, the early adult awaited for his doom to come.


Wind not even stirring, the soldier continued to become a sitting duck. When will he meet his fate of doom? Glaring at a distant flower field in the corner, the chimera dropped himself down onto all fours. Those flowers from afar, could they have been different ones? He needed to take a look, and see with his own mismatched eyes, right this instant.


Crawling for dream minutes on end, nothing but more gladioluses awaited him. Seeing such, the early adult allowed a sigh to escape the dream esophagus. Did he waste his subconscious time coming here? But, as he kept trudging on closer, a surprise had come up right from under him.


Hole dropping from underneath him, the hyena tumbled downward. Pitch black darkness engulfing him for minutes on end, the chimera closed his eyes. Was this it for him? Had he already reached the end of the dream world? Regret filled the early adult. He should not have ventured further, for sure.


Falling for hours on end, the soldier soon dropped downward onto a hard, cold, metal floor. Feeling boxed in, the early adult observed his surroundings. But, what awaited him was an entire new world of uncertainties galore. Finding himself behind metal bars, another presence made the possibly nonexistent room feel even smaller.


Turning his head, the soldier observed the person who might have not existed within reality. Standing towards the steel bars had been a short young woman slightly taller than him. The girl had extraordinarily long silver hair that went down to about her waist pulled back into braids with what appeared to be handcuffs tied at the ends of them. Pitch black ribbons tied towards the end, the hyena studied her outfit, for a moment. Black hat on her head, light yellow eyes with a face mole beneath the left one, her red button down outfit with a lock black fluffy skirt barely looked fit for prison. Red boots with ribbons on the end of them, Siorc ended his examination.


Young lady soon looking his way, the early adult returned a look in kind. Just who was this person, had they ever met? But, the hyena perished the thought. He had seen far too many faces in his lifetime to ever remember every single person he had ever encountered. She had been no different, in such regard.


"A new death row inmate," the prisoner girl said. "Pleasure to meet you, cellmate."


Hearing such line, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Just who was this girl? Had she been a prisoner in the real Fortress of Meropide? If such were the case, why was he dreaming about her? He had never bothered to remember the crowd of people who lived there within aside from the duke, the nurse and otter chimera duo.


Woman calling out he was on death row, the early adult blinked. Death row? Was that a real punishment in the prisons? He did not know why, but that sounded very unlike Fontaine. Had he been awake right now? Slapping himself, the hyena shook his head. Nothing, no pain; he was most certainly in the dream world. But, a laugh soon came his way.


"You're a funny one!" the prisoner girl chuckled. "So, what got you on death row, buddy?"


Given such question, the chimera drew multiple blanks. What would be something that would put a person on the chopping block of life? He did not know. Had he assumed the identity of someone else while in the dream world? He supposed, such could have been the case. Lips moving on their own, no sound came out of his throat.


Look of shock on the prisoner girl's face, the early adult blinked. What did he say that would paint her with astonishment? Whatever it must have been, it had to have been an unforgivable crime. The person whose identity he was possibly assuming, had they taken someone's life? If such were the case, he wished to wake up, right this second.


"You stole Lady ------'s cake five times?!" the prisoner girl asked in astonishment. "Wow, you belong in here! What a brave soul!"


But, the time had come.


"Time to go," the duke soon said.


"Wow, that was fast! She just got here!" the prisoner commented in the background.


Prisoner bars opening themselves up, the hyena had soon been grabbed by the wrist. Escorted towards his doom, something he could never imagine awaited him. Extremely large ship standing over piping hot seething waters, the early adult let out a gulp. Was he about to be boiled alive? What kind of death sentence was that? The Fortress was a peculiar place.


Duke dragging him aboard, the chimera had soon been over the edge, pushed off shortly after, the early adult closed his eyes, but as he opened them once more, something of utter terror awaited him. Shark hopping out of the water, the early adult fell further backwards as the sea denizen's mouth drew closer. Dropped in, the mouth of the creature soon closed. Life slipping away, the hyena surrendered himself to the subconscious gods above. Nibble, nibble, nibble, nom, nom, nom. Energy draining away further, the soldier let out one final thought as death awaited him.


Really? A shark? Is this how this one ends?


He was in disbelief.


***


"No, this curse, is getting worse. Bad
Omens, bad omens everywhere.


This is painful, someone, please
Help me, please, someone
I am begging! Someone please,
Someone please, save me.


Can't anyone here me?
Am I to remain suffering.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Oh, Archons, how much of
This jade has consumed me? No. I have to


Breathe. I need to
Ease my thinking. No


I can't. It hurts to breathe. It


Hurts to breathe, it hurts to breathe.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
Ventilation dying.
Everything hurts, I


Really cannot take much more.
Everything hurts
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
Can't someone save me?
Help end this
Eternal feelings of suffering? The gazelles, why
Did they do this to me? They have been surprisingly


Absent lately. Did


They run away to absolve themselves from responsibility?
How much longer until this curse consumes me? I feel like I am going in
Retrograde. I will become nothing but stone.
Everything hurts,
Someone, please save me.
How much longer until this curse consumes me?
Oh, but I mustn't complain. I must
Look the other way.
Don't complain, don't complain, don't complain.


Soon, it will be time for work,
Obviously I do not have a choice.
My health does not matter.
Even if everything hurts, if I cannot work,
Obviously, Her Majesty will kill me.
No skipping, get to work.
Everything will be fine, as long as I hide it.


Perhaps, that's what I have to do. It is
Likely I will get questions about my arms again,
Even so, I have to keep hiding it
And act like everything is fine.
So get into action.
Everything is fine.


How much longer this will last, I do not know,
Even if it could end me, I must not
Let myself skip.
Perhaps, this will end soon. Perhaps, just


Maybe, the curse has reached its climax. Right, right, right,
Everything is fine. I


Have absolutely no right to complain about anything or
Everything. So, I need to stop,
Look ahead. This is not
Permanent, never will be.


My body will soon return to normal, surely.
Everything hurts, but I cannot complain.


Halt myself from feeling anything; numb myself.
Everything is fine, everything is fine, everything is fine.
Look the other way.
Please do not ask anything.


My current hands black from jade will vanish, surely.
Everything is fine, everything is fine, everything is fine."


The sound of morning alarm bells screeched out as if someone had been hitting a loud gong somewhere in Liyue. As the alarm bells kept their cacophony going for minutes on end, countless Fatui soldiers groaned in a discordant echo. The alarm bells were right on time in punctuality, as usual. But despite such complaints, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Lifting himself upwards from the pillow, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He hardly had any time to think about such things. He needed to get ready for work now. Lifting himself up from the bed, the soldier readied to begin the morning routine of dressing the body. But, something of terrifying note soon awaited him.


Heavy wave of heat emanating through him, the early adult fanned himself. Why was it so hot? He could fry himself on the sidewalks of Liyue, for sure. But, such had not been the end of the unease. Entire right leg pitch black with a colossal amount of jade in it, the hyena let out another scream.


But, such had only been the beginning of his discoveries. Lifting his sleepwear up, for a moment, the early adult's tired eyes pulsated. Entire waist pitch black as well, the early adult jumped backwards towards the wall, tears streaming down. Receding into fetal position, the chimera rocked back and forth upon the floor. The curse, why was it getting worse? How much more could it possibly take from him?


Wiping his tears, the early adult let out another scream. He needed to snap out of it, right this instant. He needed to get ready for work now. Why was he letting this get to him? He needed to stop, and focus on the workday at hand. But, the terrors soon continued to roll the dice.


Legs not moving for minutes on end, the early adult let out another series of shouts. His legs, why were they stuck upon the ground? Limbs feeling as heavy as rocks, the tears kept on falling. Why was this happening to him? He didn't have time for this. Time was ticking away. Any second now, and the agent would see him not dressed and give him a yell of a lifetime.


Room spinning to and fro, the early adult waved a flag of surrender. If walking were not possible, he knew he had no choice. Placing his hands upon the floor, the early adult dragged himself towards his uniform drawers. Feet of stone screeching across the cold floor, a wave of humiliation flowed through him. Had he become a full blown hyena, at this very moment? He knew that hadn't been the case, but he felt like it was, at the moment.


Movement in his legs returning as the uniform drawers neared, the early adult leaned upon the wooden edges, for a moment. Head pulsing, the early adult took a long, deep breath. His body, why was it fighting him right now? Swiping the containers open, the soldier reached for his winter jacket. Head continuing to spin cycles, the side of his dresser was his best friend.


But, as he attempted to dress himself, struggles took the early adult away. World around him moving as fast as a tiger in Sumeru, the early adult fell backwards upon the ground. Uniform dropping multiple meters away from him, the early adult clicked his tongue. Why did he let go of it? How pathetic of him.


Lifting himself upwards again, the early adult attempted to get ready once more. Uniform soon splitting into two, the hyena squinted. Was he seeing double? Everything falling flat, the jacket had not been placed over his short body. Shaking his head rapidly, the world soon became single again.


Winter jacket finally placed over his layered shirts, the early adult let out a deep, heavy breath. However, upon doing so, an uncomfortable feeling consumed the soldier. Had there been something in his stomach? He knew he could feel something in there, for a moment. But, the hyena ignored such feelings. He needed to stop letting himself get distracted.


Collecting himself, the early adult clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Matching roses adorning his hair and ears, the hyena prayed to the Dendro archon he was not supposed to worship for the flowers to give him the first wind he needed for the day. Surely, this would give him the boost he would need.


Such was immediate wishful thinking. World spinning faster and faster, the hyena body soon shook hands with the floor for the third time of the day. Cold, hard tiles beneath him, the hyena let out a screech. Why was his body continuing to fight him? This curse was quite the aggravating inconvenience.


Lifting himself up, the early adult hooked the Dendro Vision onto his uniform belt. But, as he gazed at his uniform down below, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Why had there been another vision lying there? Did someone leave it here? How incredibly strange. But, he soon snapped himself out of it. What in the world was he saying? This Vision was his. Hooking it down even tighter, he broke down into a teeming sweat.


Staring at the top of his uniform drawers, a world of fuzz consumed the hyena, for a moment. What was this gem doing here on the top of his drawers, how did it get here? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. What's gotten into him today? That was his Delusion. There was no way he would use it today.


Buttons barely in the correct holes, the early adult dragged himself towards the edge of the room. Heelless shoes finally on, the young soldier returned towards his uniform drawers. Bowl of rations soon in his hand, the young hyena bit down. Although, upon doing so, a sense of rockiness devoured his throat.


Placing his hands over his mouth, the early adult bent over onto the ground. Flavorless gruel travelling backwards, everything came right out. Floor absolutely rancid, jade dropped down onto the floor as well, everything kept going. Acids tickling him, the early adult's tears stained him as the disgustingness reached its climax.


Taking a heavy breath, the soldier grabbed cleaning products in the bottom compartment of his uniform drawers. What in the world is he crying so much for? He's a hyena chimera. He hardly had to eat as much as a normal human person did. Scrubbing the floor profusely, the scent of ammonia overtook his nostrils. Holding back the urge to let loose again, the hyena tuned the stench out.


Continuing to scrub even harder, a false seed planted itself downward into the hyena's dizzying mind. Nothing was wrong with him whatsoever. It was the curse. Absolutely nothing was amiss with him. Right. He was cursed. There was nothing wrong. Floor squeakily as clean as a whistle, the early adult wiped his brow. Standing upward, and adjusting his glasses, the soldier had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


Hearing soft footsteps, the early adult tilted his head. Who was coming by today? That sound, he hardly recognized it. Had his hearing been muffled? Slapping his ears, nothing changed. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, an unexpected faceless appeared on the other side of his door.


Former practice partner wearing a dragon mask, a wave of heavy confusion flowed through him. Why was his former practice partner standing the door, and what was with that ridiculous face covering? What an embarrassing look for him. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. It was time to get into work mode. No more allowing his mind to wander.


"Let's go, Ingne," his practice partner said in a serious one. "I'm taking you to Kawu."


Siorc backed ten steps away. He sees now, his former practice partner was sent here to be annoying. That won't do. Who did he think he was, deciding that for him? He did not need to go see the jackal chimera in her office. Absolutely ridiculous. He didn't have time for this ludicrous nonsense. Mouth moving, words blurted themselves out.


"Who do you think you are? I don't have time for games," Siorc accidentally blurted out.


Ingne bearing him the gift of rudeness, the former practice partner shook his head. It was just as his subordinate had told him. Something was incredibly wrong with him, without question. Ingne never talked back to anyone. Whiffing up a strong scent of acid as well, everything clicked together. He needed to see Kawu, no ifs and or buts about it. He knew he would need to be as gentle as possible when addressing such.


"This room smells like acid," the former practice partner said. "You need a doctor, Ingne. You are unwell."


Hearing such, the hyena let out a laugh. The room smelled like what now? Acid? This man was pulling his leg. Was this supposed to be some kind of joke? It was a funny one, if so. He should become a comedian for the Opera Epiclese and depart from the Fatui. He would sell tickets aplenty.


"I don't know what you're talking about, sir!" the hyena responded, laughing. "Must be next door." His chuckles broke wind, continuing onward. "We can't keep Her Majesty waiting! Give me a real job!"


The former practice partner let out a sigh. This was far worse than he thought. Why was Ingne so stubborn all the time? Such mentality was doing far more harm to him than good. Would giving him a ridiculous gag order satisfy his itch to work? He supposed it was worth a shot.


"In that case, Ingne, I'll take you to Seirai Island. Go clean up maple leaves and youkai there," his former practice partner said. As he said such, he seized the young man's hand. Escort towards Inazuma starting, the soldier's mind raced.


It's go time.


***


"Wait. Hold on now.
Hold up. Hold it right there.
Am I to seriously believe
These are my duties today?


I have to do what now?
Say that again, Egor.


This makes absolutely no sense.
How is this an order?
I have to do what now? Clean up maple leaves.
Something about this feels like an excuse.


Unless I am mistaken.
This has to be some kind of mistake.
This has to be some kind of prank.
Everything feels like some sort of
Rather, cruel, sick joke.


Ah, Your Majesty, did you really order this?
Be serious with me right now.
Something feels incredibly
Off about all this. Ah,
Look, there I go overthinking again. My
Ultimate down fall. Stop
That. Cease this downward spiral immediately.
Even though it seems ridiculous, I do


Not have a choice, in the matter.
Obstruct this long line of
Negative thinking. It's time to work.
So, drop the feeling of uncertainty.
Enter the stormy island.
Nothing should be holding me back.
So, start raking.
Every single leave must be


Cleansed. I mustn't
Let the youkai wander freely,
Either. My second round of banishing them from whence they came
Accelerates. Everything speeds itself upward.
Now, where could these creatures be hiding?
I suppose I am about to find out.
Nothing makes sense, but
I need to stop letting my mind wonder.
No more of that.
Get to work. That is the


Ultimate kept to living.
Place my mind back where it belongs: working.


Maybe this will be a simple, easy day,
And nothing bad will await me.
Please, Archons, if you can hear me, give me the energy I need.
Look, honestly, I shouldn't rely so heavily on my faith.
Everything will fall into place naturally.


Likely, this job will not take too much
Energy from me.
Ah, well, I suppose, one can only assume. This could be
Very taxing. What am I saying? It's just raking! That barely requires any
Energy from me!
So, stop overthinking,


How could I keep looping back
Around in circles like this?


I have to get raking.


Be quiet, thoughts.
Unleash work mode.
Stop wandering, everything besides
The mission at hand must leave me.


Ah, enough. Go.


Get moving.
Unleash the hyena beast
That is inside me.


Listen to nothing
And get myself in the zone.
Utter no more thoughts
Get on with it.
How many leave piles await me today?
I do not know, I believe it is
Nearing late autumn now, for the rest of the world.
Guess it'll be leave aplenty. That's


Just how it is, I suppose.
Unleash the beast.
Slash away these useless tiles of
Taking up space. Right here, right


Now. It should not take much time.
Or so, I hope.
World of maple, here I come."


Teleport Waypoint taking him to Amakane Island, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. Why did his former practice partner take him here? Wasn't this area quite far away from Seirai Island? He didn't understand this one little bit. But, a disturbance soon entered the force.


Shivering up a storm, the soldier grit his teeth. Why was it so cold here today? Was it about to snow? Practice partner already hundreds of meters away from him, the hyena attempted to move forward. But, such movement never came. Remaining frozen in place for minutes on end, the soldier's rocky feet kept him grounded.


Practice partner soon turned around back towards the opposite direction, the absent sun in the sky lifted him upward. Taken in a bridal carry, the soldier's cheeks grew red. What in the world was this man doing, carrying like he was his wife? Put him down, right this instant. Such thoughts, however blurted themselves out.


"Put me down!" Siorc shouted, squirming.


"Ingne, you're so snappy today, it's so unlike you," the former practice said. "Sorry, I'm not putting you down."


Carried off towards a wooden boat, the hyena had been put into a laying position. Placed into a laying position, his former practice partner told him to rest up until reaching Seirai Island. Hearing such demand, the soldier let out a sigh. Was he being serious right now? They were on a moving boat. Falling asleep would be impossible, for sure.


As the wooden vessel left Amakane Island, the early adult's thoughts wandered. He had to clean up maple leaves today. He needed to become a lean, mean cleaning machine. Not a single fallen debris from the trees could remain whatsoever. The word must be scrubbed of such garbage about.


Boat sailing right along, the soldier could not help but wonder. Where had this sudden influx of youkai reports suddenly come from? This was his second time being ordered to do something about them. Had that portal he found himself in opened up and let some of the younger ones out to do some mischief?


Closing his eyes for a moment, the early adult jerked his head. Maybe he was jumping to conclusions. That other world he went to, there was no way that youkai escaped from there. Perhaps, these ones had been from a different place entirely. Hadn't the Electro Nation of eternity been known for its eccentric mythological creatures?


Feeling himself about to drift, the early adult opened his eyes once more. What did it matter if some of them were eccentric. Youkai, hadn't they been like what the Adeptus were to the people of Liyue? There could have been bad eggs in both groups of sacred beasts, for sure. Such was the flow of life.


Seirai Island still far off, the early adult closed his eyes once more. He supposed he would be dealing with another round of tanuki today. That would hardly pose any sort of problem for him, surely. They would do nothing more than play games with him. Maybe such was for the best, at the moment.


Lifting his head upward, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just his imagination, or had it been getting extremely misty all of a sudden? Lowering his head back downward, the hyena could feel his eyes get heavy all of a sudden. Had his eyelids gained weight? He could keep them open no longer.


Feeling gloved arms on his shoulders, the early adult lifted himself upward. Former practice partner informing him they had arrived at Seirai Island, a heavy wave of fear flowed through him. What was he doing, falling asleep like that? How long had he been out? He needed to apologize, right this instant.


"I'm sorry for falling asleep, sir!" the hyena exclaimed, bowing his head. The apologies soon repeated themselves multiple times.


"It's alright, Ingne, I told you that you could," the former practice partner responded. As he said such, he placed a bag onto his backside. "I will be back in the evening for you. Remember to hide your Vision. The Vision Hunt Decree has intensified."


Eerie warning coming his way, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. The Vision Hunt Decree had gotten even worse now? How was that even possible? But, he knew it wasn't in his place to question other country's practices. He knew nothing about the Electro Nation of Eternity, it was best to keep his judgement at bay.


Former practice partner soon leaving, the early adult placed the bag onto his front side. Undoing the zipper as his fingers barely bent, multiple tools had been seated within the container. Seeing a rake for leaf destruction, the early adult prepared himself. It was time to get youkai sweeping. But, what else awaited him inside through the soldier for a loop.


Long, iron pointed spear, the soldier's heart skipped more than six beats. He had to use a polearm today? He was toast, done, finished. Such weapon type was not in his blood. He was about to fail at every single battle thrown his way, for sure. Was this lance placed in here on purpose? It had to have been, without a doubt. But, one final surprise soon awaited at the bottom of the leather container.


Note at the bottom, the soldier read the words carefully. Instructions reading out he must go towards the bottom of Amakumo Peak, the early adult titled his head towards the stormy sky. Was he reading this right? There was something at the bottom of the mountains? Such did not make sense. But, the confusion only continued.


Note reading that he had to seek out a pirate ship in Seiraimaru, the early adult titled his head. He had to do what now? What in the world had he just read? This had to have been something completely made up, for sure. But, he supposed he had done far wilder jobs in the past. It was no different than the usual odd job.


Knowing it was time to move on, the early adult had become to head westward. But, as he attempted to do, nothing moved. Legs as hard as rock, a wave of doom flowed through the chimera. Why was this happening already? It was far too early for the curse to strike now. He needed to move, this instant.


But such did not happen, even slightly, whatsoever. Stuck in place, the soldier swore the jade stuck within him had begun to glow. Seeing such, the soldier let out a scream. Why was it glowing? The curse, was it spreading right here right in front of him? Throwing himself onto the grassy ground beneath him, the chimera dragged himself forward.


Moving forward with a crawl, the soldier could feel monsters eyes from afar glare at him. Hilichurls letting out a confused grunt, a heavy wave of humiliation flowed through him. Were the monsters looking down on him? He had to have looked extremely pathetic to them right about now.


Limbs still as stuck as they were before, the early adult kept crawling. If walking were impossible, reducing himself down to all fours was the only option. His former practice partner was gone. There were no more free rides. Surely, after some time had passed, the ability to walk would come back to him.


Spotting leaves off in the distance, the hyena tilted his head. Was it just him, or did the pile look as though it was moving? It had to have been his imagination, for sure. He was lower to the ground, his perspective had been off, putting such thoughts to bed, the first order of business loomed closer.


Reaching the first pile of leaves after about an hour of crawling, the early adult stood to his feet. Feeling a jolt down beneath him, the hyena flinched. Had his limbs finally decided they existed? How tiresome. Removing the rake from the bag, the soldier bent his knees.


Pile of maple leaves making a loud buzzing noise, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Was there a mob of Cicins hiding inside this pile of foliage? If there were, he wasn't ready whatsoever for what was about to befall him. But, as he reached further into the bag, something he had missed previously presented itself to the soldier. Piece of paper with a flaming delusion inside a flask, the chimera read the note over carefully.


"A present for you, my lovely chimera, the note in Snezhnayan writing said.


Pyro delusion looking ready to burn the world to pieces, the early adult shook like a leaf. Her Majesty, why did she gift him with another delusion? There was no way he would be able to use something like that right now, in his current state, there was just no way. He would be out like a light, in seconds, for sure.


Attaching the sinister flask of terror upon his uniform pants, the chimera let out a sigh. He knew, he had absolutely no choice in the matter. If he were to use a Vision here, he would incur the wrath of the Electro Archon, for sure. If such were to occur, Her Majesty would be disappointed in him. Such could not happen, for any reason.


Pressing the button upon the flask with a heavy amount of struggle, the soldier closed his eyes as he let the flames run loose. Hearing something scream in pain as he did so, the chimera kept his eyes shut, for the time being. Had there really been something hiding underneath the pile of maple? He was about to be thrown into the heat of battle, guaranteed.


"Hey, you, you're burnin' my butt down he'e! Stop that!" a voice shouted.


Hearing such, the early adult could not help but question. Was he hearing things? Perhaps, just maybe, he was. Opening his eyes, for a moment, nothing awaited him. Shrugging his hard as rock shoulders, the chimera prepared himself for the final burning of doom for the pile of leaves in front of him.


Continuing to burn the pile eyes closed, more shouts kicked into overdrive. But, the early adult tuned them out. He was not about to let his mind play further tricks on him today. Letting the flask do its duty for the last round, the hyena opened his eyes. But, what awaited him was a bucket of rage.


"Dat's it, onii-chan! I've hadda enoufa ya!" a youkai shouted. "Fight me!"


Small young male with blue hair, duck mask and cap on his head fuming up a storm, the hyena could feel his blood turn cold. He had done it now, he had enraged a kappa. He would pay the ultimate price for such from the gods. Masked creature holding his fists out, the fight squared itself off into cubes.


Youkai lunging forward, the kappa's legs brushed against the hyena's waist. Kicks ramping up in speed, the early adult attempted to reach for the spear in his bag. But, the enemy refused to yield. Webbed feet brushed up against his rocky waist, the soldier swore he could hear the mystical being laugh.


"What'chya made outta, onii-chan, rocks?" the youkai asked, laughing? "Yer pathetic, and weak!"


Removing his spear from the bag, the hyena stared at the weapon, for a moment. How was he supposed to charge this thing at the enemy? Holding it in the wrong direction, the early adult swung the polearm as if it were a sword. Slashing air, a wave of embarrassment flowed through him.


Youkai letting out a giggle, his feet soon met his torso once again, kicks gaining speed with every round, the legs moved upward. Arm caught into the mix, the weapon was soon upon the ground. Energy vanishing, the hyena rose his hand up towards the sky. Whispering the word mercy on repeat, the soldier's hops swayed.


"Yer surrenderin' onii-chan, hehe, yer sucha weaklin'!" the youkai said. "K. Bye 'den, I'm outta here." As he said such, he leaped into the waters far off.


Knowing he had to continue onward and continue cleaning the leaves, the soldier kept going. Just how many youkais were hiding underneath these piles of foliage? He supposed he would find out the closer he were to get to Seiraimaru. Keeping his eyes open, the hyena remained focused.


Feeling a sudden chill in the air, the soldier shivered. Had the stormy island gotten colder? But, the soldier shook his head. He was imagining it, surely. It was just the wind, for sure. Spotting the next pile of leaves up ahead, the attempted to erupt his legs into a sprint, but such was never able to started. Surrendering, the early adult kept walking.


Next pile of leaves upon him, the chill had only gotten worse. Had it been winter in Inazuma? How strange. But, he supposed seasons worked differently from nation to nation. Clutching the flask, the next round of burning soon begun. Foliage giving off a nasty charred scent as he kept going, the early adult flinched.


Leaves continuing to burn with a fury, the soldier swore he could see sleet drop down from the sky. Seeing such, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Since when did it snow in Inazuma? Such felt incredibly unnatural, for sure. Letting everything burn, a new opponent released itself from the foliage.


Small young woman with a kimono adorning snowflakes and long, flowing blue hair, the early adult swore she could hear the lady laugh. Scratching the back of his ear, the early adult looked at the youkai, for a moment. Was he imagining it, or was there a sinister feeling foreboding throughout?


"I'll turn you into my popsicle!" the youkai shouted in a singing voice.


Icy attacks coming his way, the soldier continued to shiver. This youkai, was she one of those mythical beings known as a snow woman? He did not know why, but she definitely had to be one. Cutting his thoughts off, the early adult removed the spear from his back once more.


But, no matter how hard he tried, attacks never connected. Youkai dodging every which way, a wave of uselessness flowed through the chimera. Why couldn't Her Majesty have just left him a claymore? Spears would never be his forte. But, he knew he had no choice but to keep trying.


Snow woman continuing to dodge his every single move, the early adult let out a grunt. Was she doing this on purpose? She was moving far too fast for her own good. Moxie taking the stage, the soldier let out a huff. It was impossible. This youkai was far too quick. He had been bested.


"You're boring!" the youkai exclaimed. "I don't want to play with you anymore."


Youkai soon leaving the area, the hyena scratched his head. What could he have possible done to be found boring? Had his poor performance made the enemy want to find another popsicle victim? Moving forward slowly, a question dug a hole within the hyena's mind.


As the next pile of leaves quickly approached, the hyena could not help but wonder. If more youkai were to become bored with him, would they leave him be? Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to not play around with their games in the way they wished. Next pile of foliage ready for burning, the hyena prepared himself.


Small creature with an oni mask over their face and horns on the top of their head, the early adult shook his head. Was this really a youkai, or just a lost kid caught in the lightning storm of Seirai Island? He could hardly tell, almost everything looked exactly the same the further he walked.


Creature putting up a fight, the soldier's polearm missed the mark multiple times. Spinning the object around, the enemy let out a laugh. Weapon grabbed as he kept on trying, the hyena held back the urge to shout to get their paws off. But, the early adult swallowed his words. There was no way he could say that. Failures mounting up, a scream had been brought his way.


"You're in Inazuma, and you can't even use a polearm?!" the masked person asked in confusion. "Fraud! This fight is over!"


Youkai running off, the soldier let out a gulp. Right, he must have looked like the worst of scum right about now. The art of the spear, it had to have been important to the people and youkai of Inazuma. Was he ruining it? Maybe it was best to forgo using such weapon. Putting it away, the early adult moved on.


Multiple piles of leaves soon done and dusted away with, the chimera could feel the world spin, for a moment. Blobby figures looking at him from afar, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Was something looking at him? No, he must have been mistaken. It was time to move onward.


"Onii-chan, play hide and seek with us!" a youkai shouted.


Turning his head towards the right and left, the early adult's head spun cycles. Was someone talking to him? What was happening? Hide and seek? Had he fallen into the dream world? Everything felt so unreal. Cluster of voices chanting hide and seek over and over, the hyena nodded at nothing.


"Kaaay, onii-chan! We'll hide," the voice of nothing exclaimed. "And, you'll seek! Count to thirty, okaaaaaaaay?"


Hearing such, the hyena titled his head. He had to do what now? Closing his eyes, the soldier had begun counting. Rapidly saying the numbers one through ten, a bolt of lightning soon struck the area. Legs shaking, the early adult kept counting. Blazing through eleven through twenty, shouts soon came his way.


Voices telling him to count slower, the hyena sighed. Wasn't the point of this game to hide quickly? Slowing down the count, the remaining numbers had been dragged out far slower. Reaching thirty after thirty seconds had passed, the early adult had begun the hunt.


Looking everywhere throughout the stormy mountains for minutes on end, not a single person had been discovered. Hunt going on without anyone found, the soldier could feel juice leak out of his brain. Just where had these youkai been hiding? Spotting multiple boxes laid out everywhere, the hyena shook his head. That was definitely not it. Those were leftover crates from a past visitor.


Looping around in a circle for minutes on end, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Where did that noise come from? Peering around the rocks not a single soul had been located. Laughter continuing, frustration threw the soldier across the path. What was so funny? Boxes soon becoming humanoid creatures with fox tails, fingers were pointed his way.


"Onii-chan, you stink at this game!" the fox tailed youkai exclaimed. "You didn't find any of us!"


"You're so bowin'!" another youkai exclaimed. "We don't wanna pway with you anymore!"


Youkai exiting the area, the hyena blinked. Was he about to become Boredom Archon? That had to have been the thirteenth time he had been told today he was boring. It was what it was. It was not his fault the creatures had disguised themselves as objects. How was he supposed to know such a thing?


Multiple youkai continuously beating him at his game, many rounds of being told he wasn't any fun had kept coming his way. He knew already. He was boring. Did the youkai keep having to say that to him? They had bested him today, there was nothing he could do.


Continuing his slow walk, the world around him had begun to blur. Everything becoming colorful blocks before his eyes, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Had he dropped his glasses somewhere? Moving his stoned arm across his face, the glass made itself known to him. Feeling such, a wave of fear flowed through him. What was happening? Had his specs been useless now?


Stumbling along the path, visibility had been reduced to zero. As he kept moving, the hyena could not help but think. Had he been going the right way? He did not know; everything was a ball of fuzz. But, he knew he had to keep going. The so called pirate ship, he had to find it.


Blobs of orange everywhere the chimera could feel himself move automatically. Leaves burning away, the hyena kept ramping up the speed. Moving forward, everything vanished as if it was never there. Zoning out, the early adult shook his head back and forth, what was he doing? Why was he zoning out like this? He needed to focus, no matter what. Or, he would be onslaughted, any second now.


Blurry leaves sent away, the soldier let out a huff. What was going on? He did not know, had everything truly been cleared? The soldier did not know. Everything had been too fuzzy to tell. Continuing onward, a new light green blob awaited him. Reaching for his rake, the hyena prepared himself.


But, as he pressed the foliage destruction tool forward, the early adult could hear a loud bonk. What in the world was that just now? Had these leaves been made out of rocks? He needed to keep going. Dropping the leave's weapon, the young soldier swore he could hear shouts close by. Was the foliage talking to him? Almost as quickly as such occurred, a voice he did not wish to hear soon broke the sound barrier.


"Ow! Rede, did you just hit me?" Tegne screamed at the top of his lungs.


"Why no, Tegne, I'm over here," Rede responded, chuckling. "Did an acorn perhaps hit your head?"


"Uh, hello, Rede? We're not in Mondstadt anymore!" Tegne shouted, leg raised upward. But, his shouts had immediately been ignored.


Rede turning around towards the opposite direction, something of immediate alarm caught his attention. Kid in the corner, face pale and cheeks flushed looking completely out of it, he stroked his goatee for a moment. Something wasn't right about this. Not in the slightest.


"Never mind that, dear," Rede responded, pointing. "Seems like that kid ran into you." Partner turning towards him, more shouts took over.


"Woah, kid looks like he's about to fall over and croak, or something!" Tegne shouted, pointing. "We should take him to a medic!"


Loud, annoying voices of the ram and goat chimera gnawing his ears off, the early adult balled up a fist. Could these two pests ever stop being annoying at any given point? No matter how many times he were to run into them, it was always the same. They needed to go away from his presence, right this instant.


"Move it, ram. You're in my way," the hyena blurted out. "Don't you see I have work to do? Get out of my way." But, a realization had immediately washed over him. Was that too rude of him? He needed to apologize, right now. "I'm sorry, sir. Please forgive my rudeness!" The world spun as he said such, and words continued to bleed out. "I need to go."


Running on over, Rede crossed his arms across his waist. The kid just flipflopped on his words. Was this normal? His words and body language were not adding up. Something wasn't right about this. He could not just let him go off on his own like this. While his partner's choice of words were a bit exaggeratory, he was right. He needed to say something.


"No can do, kid," Rede said, grabbing his wrist. "Are you ill?" But as he grabbed ahold of his wrist, he had been on high alert. What was this coarse feeling? But, he soon continued. "If you're stamping out youkai, we will help you." But, an immediate response had come his way.


"Butt out," Siorc blurted out. "I don't need--" But a finger had been pressed to his lips.


"Sorry, not an option, kid," Rede said, speaking over him. But, Tegne soon interrupted further.


"He could be contagious, Rede!" Tegne shouted, pointing. "Look at him! His hands are black!"


"We'll get ourselves tested for Black Hand Disease later, dear," Rede responded. "Time to go." But, pushback stormed in once more.


"Shh! Don't say that word!" Tegne screamed in a loud whisper. "Isn't your pops around? Drop it now!"


Voices drowning everything out, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Where was he, anyway? But, he snapped himself out of it. Right. He was in Koseki Village. How did he get here? But, he snapped himself out of it again. Why was he continuing to fall back into Dazeville? It was time to move.


Ram and goat chimera refusing to leave him be, the soldier surrendered. It was no use trying to tell them off anymore, he knew he would get silenced. Could the part of his brain that wasn't working fix itself already? He needed to stop talking, for sure. Trudging along, his vision remained fuzzy.


Party of two in front of him blasting leaves away with their Dendro Visions, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Why were they doing that? Wasn't there a Vision Hunt Decree going on? Lightning crackling up above, the soldier gulped. The Wrath of the Gods was about to come any second now.


Party of two stopping towards the next leafy blob, the soldier pressed the button almost as if ones and zeroes had taken him over. Blotchy figure jumping out screaming that his bottom is all crispy now, the hyena swore he could hear Tegne say they'll race him. Colorful figure disappearing, everyone, sans the hyena had begun playing the game of chase.


Ram and goat chimera duo winning the race, the soldier swore he could hear them call out to him to catch up. Legs as hard as stone, the early adult dragged his feet. Everything continuing to blur around him, the hyena could feel sweat pour down his back. When had it warmed up here? What was wrong with Inazuma today? Climate was a disaster.


Slowly cruising through a slightly less stormy area, sand crunched underneath the soldier's heelless shoes. Soon finding himself in front of a wooden brown blob, it had come to the soldier's attention. He had reached Seiraimaru. Had the ram and goat chimeras been on the same mission as he? How convenient, if so.


Hearing wheels turning aplenty, the sound of a wall cracking in the corner overtook the area. Hearing such, the soldier moved forward. Towards such. Shaking his head in a rapid manner before entering, he could see clearly now, the rain was gone. Observing the area for a moment, oddities arose.


Finding himself in a large wooden room with multiple floors and puzzles, the hyena scratched his head. Why did Her Majesty what him to come in here? Was it for useless treasure again? Whatever it was, he knew he had to make haste before it were to disappear.


Duo in front of him turning their heads to the right and left the soldier slammed his rocky hand across his face as the ram pointed at multiple objects in the room. Did he always have to do such a thing? This man was about as annoying as the penguin family, for sure.


"There's youkai in here, Rede! Lots of them!" Tegne shouted at the top of his lungs, pointing. "That Guji-sama! She lied! She said there would only be one or two in here!"


"You know Guji-sama, Tegne, she never likes to give the whole truth," Rede answered. " Best we just move on for now and face them head on."


Chimera duo in front of him heading off towards an open door, the early adult staggered behind. Coming across a room with multiple wheels, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. What were these here for, exactly? Hearing Rede state all four of them need to be turned in a certain direction, the puzzling began.


Tegne turning the first wheel clockwise ninety degrees, the soldier mirrored such movement. Hearing a comment that the needles all had to face one another, the hyena could not help but feel a wave of doubt. Was that really it? He couldn't help but feel there was an error in such logic.


Rede turning another wheel in the corner, the needle soon faced the opposite end. Ram running towards the other end of the room, the next wheel had been turned. Door opening itself up, everyone continued onwards towards the next room. But, what awaited as the entrance caved was a battle amongst the wood.


Multiple youkai looking ready to throw fists on the edge of the opened door, the ram and goat chimeras had removed weapons from their pockets. Enemies taken out of the picture almost immediately, a rotting wooden floor had soon been reached. Using whatever energy he had left to jump, the other side had been reached.


Room with a peculiar unusable mechanism, the soldier swore he could feel the goat chimera push him out of the room. Informed that this just looped back to the entrance, everyone jumped downward onto the floor below. Multiple youkai decimated, a new puzzle awaited.


Strange light up tiles upon the floor, everyone stepped on the objects one after another. Everything lit up, in a certain pattern, the wooden floor gave out, in a matter of moments. Falling downward, an identical floor puzzle awaited the party of three. Slimes appearing as such occurred, a fight roared.


Closing his eyes for a moment, the hyena's currently stony hand had become a rocky hyena paw. But, as he attempted to fight the Geo Slime, not a single dent had been brought to the table. Seeing such, the early adult froze in place. What was going on? Had he transformed into the Geo Element?


Slimes decimated, the tiles had soon been lit up in a continuous pattern. Blinding light engulfing the area, the soldier wandered off towards the side, mind numbing, confusion took him over. Had he come to the wrong place, what was he doing here? Moving towards the hole in the wall, he straddled. But, his wrist had soon been grabbed.


"Woah, kid, that's a hole," Rede said, squeezing him tight. "What are you doing?" But a shout had soon come his way.


"Rede! Why are you touching him without gloves?!" Tegne shouted, leg raised. "Do you want to catch his disease?"


"Don't be mean, Tegne," Rede said to Tegne. He then lowered his voice, for a moment. "He seems to be in some sort of state of delirium, hmm." But, he cut off his whisper. "It's time to go to Asase Shrine."


Treasure collected from the various enemies, the hyena had been escorted out of the area. Group moving southward for the time being, the hyena could not help but wonder. Could he have been contagious? If his curse were to spread to others, it would be his fault, without a shadow of a doubt.


Backing ten steps away as the shrine drew closer, the soldier created a gap between the ram and goat duo in front of him and he. Maybe it was best to keep his distance from them. Even though they were heavy thorns in his side, he would never wish a curse upon anyone. Reaching Asase Shrine after about an hour, a black cat soon spoke.


"Nya, You three, please leave," the head shrine cat said at her desk. "Isamu-san will be here soon. He'll take care of the youkai."


Banishment from the shrine soon set into motion, the soldier could hear the goat chimera say the next stop was the area below Amakumo Peak. Hearing such, the early adult rose an eyebrow. How had their locations of work lined up to the exact same point? But, he supposed coincidences were always possible.


Reaching a hole in the ground in the deepest depths of the mountain range after about an hour of walking, a heavy wave of dizziness overtook the soldier. But, he attempted to snap himself out of. He had no time for his body to fight him right now. He needed to jump down.


Taking the leap of faith, a heavy wave of heat overtook the hyena. Was it just his imagination, or had it been sweltering down here? World spinning harder, and faster, everything had begun to blur. But, the hyena pressed on. He needed to cleanse Amakumo Peak of the youkai. The choice was not his.


Seeing an array of colorful, bright lights, the early adult could not help but wonder. Where was he, some secret underground idol ring? Hearing dying out as he pressed onward, doors opened themselves up, seeing such, the chimera flinched. Did he just break the entrance open with his mind? Fascinating.


Heat getting to him as multiple puzzles were cleared with his mind, words garbled around him. Everything silencing, the soldier could feel his head spin harder and faster. Head beginning to blank, his thoughts had become soup. Sweating up a storm, the early adult had begun to sway.


Another door soon opened and closed, multiple mechanisms had been done away with in a matter of moments. Staggering forward, the soldier blinked. World blurring further, he could feel himself begin to fall backwards. Back hitting the ground, fuzz swallowed him hole. Blobs soon surrounding him, a pulse shot through his head.


"Man down, man down!" Tegne shouted.


But, the soldier could not hear it. World becoming snow, the chimera could feel himself slip away. Becoming one with the floor, the soldier closed his eyes. He could hold on no longer. Garbled noises looping on repeat, the soldier could feel himself lose the fight. Land of unconsciousness taking him away, one last thought broke through.


Chimera down, chimera down.


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal for the hyena. The pattern was a saw-blade seated in the middle of a peaceful room ready to cause destruction. But, the night before him would only prove to make everything hit an all time high on the torture scale. The dial had reached eleven.


Before him had been a field of lycoris radiata. Seeing such flowers, a heavy wave of fear flowed through the soldier. Those flowers, didn't they represent death? Lying down in the bed of spider lilies, the soldier stretched his dream arms out in disbelief. Is this it? Is this how he will perish? As the soldier thought such, another surprise awaited him.


Enormous pair of orange scissors coming out from underneath him, the soldier's eyes opened wide. Body sliced into two identical pieces, the early adult let out a pained scream. What in the subconscious world was happening? Cutting tools striking twice, he had soon been divided into four.


Cut enough small enough to become piles of jelly, the soldier gave up the fight. Dream life slipping away thrice over, the soldier's dream soul expelled itself from his disheveled body. Feeling himself about ready to fade away, an army of pained subconscious thoughts flowed through him. It was over, he was gone, finished. Monsters looking ready to eat the jelly gift left behind, one final thought broke through as he was no longer a part of the subconscious world.


He wasn't tasty.


***


"Hahahahahhahahahahaha.
Am I dying is this it?
Help me, help me, help me, help me, it hurts!
Ah, that's right, you can't help me. I'm not real.
Hahahahahahhahahaha. Right, right, that's right.
After all, I'm not real.
Hahahahahaha, right, right, right. I
Am just God's little plaything!


Hahahahaha, that's right, that's
All I am, God's little play thing.
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
And who am I to say anything? It's true.
Hahahahahahahaha, right, right. I
Am at the hands of someone else, and
He's deciding everything for me!


Hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
Ah, I see now, I see now, right.
How could I forget?
All of my life is just a game.
Hahahahahahahahaha, right, right, that's
All this is, a game.
Hahahahahahahaha.
Ah, brilliant, that's right. That's
How it is. Someone's pulling
All the strings. I see now, I see, I see. I see now.
Hahahahahahahahahaha, it's
All just a game. I get it now.


Hahahahahahahaha, that's how it is.
All this pain I have incurred, it's all just a game!


Hahahahahahahahaha, those
Abyssal gazelles, they're twiddling their thumbs right now aren't they?


Hahahahahahahaha! I'm just everyone's little plaything!
Ah, that makes sense now! I'm just everyone's little plaything.


Hahahahahahahahaha, everyone's little plaything!
Ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! Everyone's little plaything!"


Finding himself back in Snezhnaya upon waking up the next morning, the soldier swore he could feel something tugging on his chest. Feeling such, the early adult blinked. Was something tickling his lungs? Erupting into a cough for minutes on end, tears rolled down the soldier's face.


Hacking away for more than a minute, red trickled down the chimera's lips. Pieces of jade dropping out of him adorning such liquid, the early adult let out a scream, tears falling faster. What was happening to him? Had the curse spread further? Slapping his chest, he lifted himself upward from the covers. There was no time for this, he had to get ready for work.


But, immediately upon standing, the chimera's body and the floor met one another once more. Walking an impossibility, the chimera placed his hands upon the floor. Crawling towards his uniform drawers, a sight to behold dialed the horror meter of to eleven, in a matter of moments.


Entire stomach and torso pitch black with pulsating jade pieces, the hyena let out another scream. His entire lower body had been claimed, barely any of him remained. Upper chest the only section of him with flesh left, the tears soon returned. He will soon be gone, nothing but Noctiluctous Jade.


Snapping himself out of it, the soldier frantically placed his winter jacket over his stoned body. Snapping the buttons into the incorrect holes, the early adult continued onward. Breath cutting out, further coughs interrupted his morning routine. Hitting his chest once more, the early adult crawled off towards the edge of his room.


Heelless shoes soon on, the hyena's arms shook as he held onto his bowl of flavorless gruel. Attempting to munch through the only meal of the day, everything immediately came back up, decorating the floor disgustingly. Attempting to bit once more, jade tickled the soldier's throat for the second time.


Nothing going through the pipes, the soldier shook with a fervor. The gruel, why was his body rejecting it? Cleaning up the mess, the early adult kept on shivering. Telling himself over and over a few days without food was no big deal, the mess had been cleansed out of existence. But, as he finished cleaning, a new obstacle soon arrived.


"Ingne, let's go," the former practice partner said. "I'm taking you to Kawu today."


Hearing such demand, the early adult let out a laugh. Who did this person think he was, his boss? He had no authority over him. He would not go with him no matter what. He wasn't his subordinate, nor his training partner on the training grounds anymore. Words bubbling over to his tongue, everything escaped.


"Could you stop deciding things for me?!" the hyena accidentally exclaimed, words far louder than normal. "You're not my boss. I'm not going with you." He crossed his arms around his chest in defiance. "Quit poking your business where it doesn't belong." But, a glass rod weapon had soon been placed into his mouth.


Hearing Igne's defiance and rudeness, the former practice partner shook his head. Ingne was not acting like himself at all. He needed immediate medical attention. But, he knew how stubborn he could be. But, he knew what to do in this situation. He needed to take action. Placing a rod underneath the young man's tongue, he spoke against the defiance.


"Let's see what the thermometer has to say, Ingne," the former practice partner said, tone firm. "Please stay still, for a moment."


Cold, disgusting rod touching his tongue, the soldier squirmed. Not this again. They weren't accurate anyway. He probably placed it under a fireplace before coming here to have the numbers ready to shoot up at any given notice. Gloved hands holding him steady, the early adult could feel the urge to bite. Why were there hands on him? Hadn't he had enough already?


Red liquid moving upwards past thirty-six and thirty-seven rapidly, the early adult held back the urge to laugh. There it goes, the stupid little liquid, and its lies. His former practice partner, he definitely warmed this glass rod up before coming here. This was a trick, for sure. He was being fooled.


Liquid going past thirty-eight and thirty-nine degrees rapidly, the early adult held back the urge to laugh. Yeah, right, he was warmer than thirty-nine degrees. This was a trap, wasn't it? He had fallen straight into it. Liquid raising to forty and stopping, he chuckled in his mind. That thing was broken, for sure. It was wrong. Rod removed, the obstacle studied it.


"Forty degrees, Ingne," the former practice partner announced. "I'm taking you to Kawu." But, defiance fired back immediately.


"That thing is broken!" Siorc shouted back., laughing. "I'm a hyena, remember? I'm hotter than humans!" He kept on laughing, cheeks burning. "Who cares, anyway?" But, a hand had soon been on his forehead.


"Ingne, you are burning up, do you really expect me to believe that?" the former practice partner asked, sighing.


"Shut up, you don't know what you're talking about!" Siorc fired back. "Just give me work to do!"


Hearing his former practice partner's rudeness, he let out a sigh. How stubborn this man could be sometimes was quite troublesome. Would giving him a gag order satisfy him enough? He supposed he would have to do so. He wasn't going to listen to him no matter what he said.


"Alright, Ingne, then, you'll go to Tsurumi Island and pick some mushrooms," the former practice partner said reluctantly. But, he soon turned around. "You really shouldn't be working in your state. This is an emergency situation." But, a glare had come his way.


Removing his teleport waypoint proxy map from his back pocket, the former practice partner soon highlighted something upon the map. Unsure of what, the chimera dissipated the map back into orb form. Blinding light soon engulfing him, the early adult closed his eyes.


Reaching an area beside a domain isolated by a large body of ocean, a young girl in a tanuki costume had been rolling around the island over the water at high speed. Oceans getting icy as she had done so, the chimera tilted his head. What in the world is happening? Girl soon running into the former practice partner and he, she clicked her tongue.


"Darn, you two are in the way of my training to get taller!" the pint sized hoodie girl exclaimed.


Former practice partner apologizing to her, the soldier had been guided towards a boat. Placed into a laying position, he had been once again told to rest. Boat leaving the shore, the early adult held back the urge to laugh once again. Emergency situation? Yeah, right. He was cursed. Why couldn't he understand that?


Intense wave of heat plaguing him as the boat cruised forward, the soldier broke down into a sea of sweat. But, as such happened, words repeated themselves in his mind. Emergency situation, yeah, right. He was a hyena chimera, his core body temperature had to be warmer than that of a normal, human, for sure. His former practice partner was exaggerating.


Closing his eyes as the boat beneath him had begun to get soaked, the early adult turned off towards the side. Was he going to cause a flood? Feeling the world fade away, the soldier soon could feel himself drift off into absolutely nothing. Dreamland calling him back in, the world was numb.


Feeling something tug on his sleeve, the early adult rubbed his eyes. When had he fallen asleep? He needed to apologize for doing so right away. Raising himself upwards from the sticky boat, the chimera clapped his rocky hard hands together, in an instant.


"I'm sorry for falling asleep, sir!" the hyena cried.


"It's alright, Ingne, I told you to rest," the former practice partner responded. As he said such, he placed a basket onto his backside. "For now, go pick those mushrooms I asked you for. Head for Mt. Kanna. I'll wait for you here until you're finished."


Hearing such, the hyena tilted his head. He could not help but feel a sense of dejavu. Had he said the same thing yesterday? He needed to stop talking. Whatever part of his brain was fried, it needed to unfry itself right away. Moving forward through the misty world the chimera staggered west. But almost immediately upon doing so, a group of faces he did not want to see blocked the path.


Goat chimera holding a notepad and ram chimera standing on the tip of his toes next to the one and oni, the soldier swore he could feel himself blush. What was this attractive oni doing here again? But, he snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, getting all warm over this stranger? He needed to go. But, the comedy act was about to begin.


"Wow, you're just as attractive as the last time we met!" Tegne shouted. "Let me draw you in multiple poses! Like that!"


"I know muchaho, I'm the most handsome oni around!" the oni exclaimed, flexing his muscles. "But, you don't wanna make your boyfriend feel like chopped liver, do you?"


"Don't say that word in public!" Tegne shouted, leg raised. "There's old people here!" But, an interruption soon paved through.


"Okay, you two. Let's not forget why we're here," Rede said, hand held out in a stop position. "We're here to observe the mist beetles on the island for our next poem."


Feeling a wave of dizziness, the soldier could feel a pulse drop in his head. Mist beetles, wasn't that what his former practice partner asked him to go look or on Mt. Kanna? Right, that was it. Mist beetles. What was he doing here standing around? He needed to gather those right now. But, as he moved forward, he swore he could feel himself fall towards the oni. Shaking his head rapidly, he soon attempted to exit the scene.


But, the wind was soon caught.


"Woah, woah, woah, little man, where are you going?" the oni asked, oddly concerned tone of voice.


Hearing the wave of concern, the soldier let out a groan. Who did this very handsome oni think he was trying to butt into his business? He wasn't about to have any of that whatsoever. Head pulsing, his thoughts broke through towards his mouth. This oni needed to hop off his back.


"Leave me alone, mind your own business," the soldier blurted out.


"Sheesh, little man, sorry!" the oni exclaimed, palms raised in the air.


Staggering past the group, the soldier swore he could feel eyes on him. It was time to go hunting for mist beetles. Moving forward, the chimera sifted through his mind, for a moment. Mist beetles, wouldn't they be called moyakabuto in Inazuma? He was not sure if his Inazuman was correct, but the name stuck like glue.


Pushing onwards towards the west, the mist engulfed the soldier. Turning his head towards the right and left, the soldier could feel pulses in his head one after another. Mist beetles, where would mist beetles be. Feeling something nagging him from inside, the hyena ignored it. Right, they were near Mt. Kanna. Keep going northwest.


Spotting a beetle upon a tree, the soldier pinched his fingers upon the bug. Creature retreating into its shell, the early adult dropped it into the basket. Feeling more sparks pop off into his brain, the hyena titled his head. Was this what his former practice partner asked him to gather? Maybe he had been mistaken.


But, the soldier shook his head. That had to have been what he told him to get, for sure. There was no way he was mistaken. He had to keep heading towards the mountains, and grab the moyakabuto, or Her Majesty would end his life, for sure. Continuing upon the path, more bugs were dropped into the container.


Moving forward, the soldier's vision faded away. Colorful blobs in front of him, the chimera forced himself into a sprint. Legs moving faster than they had been in the past few days, the hyena kept blazing through the misty paths of nothingness. Grabbing everything along the way at breakneck speed, the soldier soon stopped moving.


Heart beating thrice as hard, the soldier broke out into a deep pant. Tickle decimating his throat, a cough erupted from within. Jade dropping down upon the foggy ground, the soldier turned his back. His body can fight him all it wanted, he cared not. He had to collect the moyakabuto. The choice was not his.


Large blurry brown beetles that felt woody against his stone palms, the early adult titled his head towards the sky. Could beetles camouflage themselves as objects? He supposed that had to be the case. Throwing the object down, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was someone watching him? Hearing voices from afar, he kept moving towards the west.


"Kid put sticks in there!" an annoying voice from afar shouted. "We gotta stop the kid!"


"Just keep following him for now," another annoying voice said.


But, such words had gone unheard by the chimera. Cruising through the blurry memorial site, white blobs floated around the early adult's field of gone vision. Had he dropped his glasses somewhere again? Everything was snow. He supposed he would have no choice but to navigate the world blind, for the time being.


Moving out of the memorial site, the chimera had begun to head north. Picking up anything and everything he could find, the hyena could feel his eyes begin to become jelly. World around him jiggly, as well, his brain had begun to become mush. But, he attempted to regain focus. Right, mist beetles. He needed to find mist beetles.


Blurry bug in the corner, the soldier bent down onto his knees. Dropping the creature down, the early adult panted up a storm. Was it just him, or had it suddenly gotten more difficult to breathe? But, he threw such thoughts away. He was heading off towards a mountain range; there was less air here.


Army of bugs everywhere, the chimera picked everything up one after another. Feeling absolutely nothing crawl into his hands, the basket continued to get filled to the brim. Trudging forward, the soldier kept the rounds of collections going. But, as the mountains grew closer, something stopped him.


Vision returning to full, two large beetles clanged their huge horns together. Seeing such, the early adult could feel everything collapse. Why was there a wooden table in the middle of the road? Where did it come from? As he continued, he swore he could hear commands shouted out.


Disembodied voices shouting get him, crusher, smash him thruster, the hyena backed two steps away. Why were people fighting beetles in the middle of the street? What was going on here? Wouldn't the mist dispel anyone not worthy? It had to have a time limit. Folding his arm into a fist, he lunged towards the large insects.


Hand phasing through them, the early adult titled his head. These beetles, were they some sort of ghosts? How strange. Creatures falling onto their backsides, the early adult's head had begun to spun further. Did the moyakabuto burn into flames when getting defeated? How terrifying.


Moving forward, the soldier's winter jacket had been soaked to the bone. But, the soldier kept ignoring such. He had reached Autake Plains, he needed to keep going and find Mt. Kanna. There was no time to worry about such right now. Moving forward, further beetles had been collected.


Turning his head towards the right and left, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Was someone still following him? He swore he could hear chatter in the distance say something about Naku Weeds. Shrugging, the early adult kept on picking aplenty. There was no way he had collected those purple plants. There was none of those around here.


Reaching the plains after about two hours of hunting and gathering, the soldier prepared himself. Right, he had to drop down to Mt. Kanna, it was time to climb. But, as he prepared to do so, he flinched at the sudden drop in air pressure. Everything getting thin, the soldier's chest tightened. Wicked cough taking control over him, the early adult had begun to fall backwards. Short body soon hitting the pavement, blackness claimed him as a prize. As the world of unconsciousness readied to invite him back in, one final thought threw him for a loop.


Wait. He had to gather mushrooms. What was he doing?


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the chimera's adult life. The cycle was a shipwreck, lost deeply at sea with absolutely no land in sight, nor any chance of rescue. The night before him would drown him further into a sea of pain, as well, quintuple fold, carry the two.


Before him had been a field of lycoris radiata, and one singular lily in the center of the field. Seeing such flowers, the soldier laid down upon the groves, accepting his fate. This was it, this was the end. The grim reaper would soon come for him and take him away. He was going to perish, why fight it? White lily between his legs, he laid motionless. But, chaos took the streets, in an instant.


Feeling a push from behind, the early adult stumped backwards. Peering downward, fear swallowed the soldier whole. Large machine with a hole on the side with sharp bristles down below the mountain, the early adult's eyes opened wide. That device, wasn't it something that crushed meat? Falling faster and faster, the early adult closed the dream eyes.


Rrrr, rrrr, creak.


Creak.


Everything chopping up into little stringy pieces, the early adult surrendered himself. He was a goner, this was it. He was food, chopped, hyena salad. Dream life slipping away faster and faster as the subconscious seconds ticked away, the early adult let his final thoughts out upon his dream deathbed.


He won't be tasty.


***


"We heard a loud crash up ahead. So we
Especially made haste. And
Looks do not deceive. The kid is
Lunged over on the


Ground, unconscious.
Oh, to be honest, it's a good thing we followed him. This kid has been acting quite
Odd. He's been going around collecting sticks, twigs and Naku Weeds.
Don't think that's what he's supposed to be doing.


Tegne soon runs towards the scene, yelling,
'He's unconscious, Rede! Help me lift him!'
I help him lift him.
Now, maybe I am mistaken, but kid's definitely scorching me, a bit.
Guess I'll deal with it. My partner then says, 'So, you lifted him, but


Where we taking him?'
Err, right. Where? But, that's when the Oni said.


'Fellas, it's fine, there's some dude waiting
On a boat by that statue thing!' I turn to
Look at Tegne. We're both in agreement.
'Let's take him to that guy!' Tegne exclaimed.
Of course, I nod. And, off
We go. Sure enough there is some man waiting he. He says his name is
Egor? Hmm, how curious, he is wearing a dragon mask. I
Do not know why, but I do not trust him. I stroke my goatee. And I say to


Him. "Are you this kid's boss? We found him unconscious by Autake Plains.'
I somehow doubt at this point I have the wrong person. But,
Man these vibes are just not setting. 'For today, yes. Thank you for bringing Ingne to me.'


Right, this kid is one of those Fatui.
I almost forgot. I
Give him back to
Him, and he tells me he will not forget
This. We pass our regards and turn around, boat leaving.


I am starting to think we might not have


Done the right thing.
Or, maybe I am overthinking it.
Nah, mind out of
The gutter. I


Know following the kid was the right thing to do.
Now, I suppose it's back to
Our mission with the beetles. But, my mind blanks
Will I be able to write? I am not sure. Worry consumes me."


Coming to in an unknown hotel room, the early adult reached for his glasses. Where in the world had he been taken to this time? He had no idea, but he knew one thing for certain. Wherever he was, he could not stay here, no matter what. But, as he lifted himself up from the bed, silver eyes glared daggers at him.


Generic nobody face giving him a death stare, the early adult rolled his tired eyes towards the sky. His former practice partner masked off? Did he think showing his face that looked the same as everyone else would convince him on anything? He was mistaken, if he thought so.


"I have informed Her Majesty about your condition, Ingne," the unmasked man said in a stern tone. "I'm taking you to Bubu Pharmacy right away."


Hearing such, the early adult covered his eyes with his face. Her Majesty knew about his current weakness. He's dead for sure now. She knew everything, she was going to find him useless, guaranteed. It was over, he was done, toast, finished, a party would be thrown in his honor over how thoroughly cooked he was.


Hearing the nobody mention Bubu Pharmacy, Siorc lifted himself up from the covers. Bubu Pharmacy? Absolutely not. There was no way he was going there, period. Why waste his time? Her Majesty was going to order his departure from this world at any given moment. He was wasting his time. Words flowing out without a filter, a salad erupted.


"No! Leave me alone!" Siorc blurted out. "We're not practice partners anymore! Mind your own business!" But, he soon covered his mouth. Why did he say that? Why is he talking so much lately? Was his brain even working anymore? "Sir, I'm sorry. Please, just give me work. I'm fine." He clapped his hands together into a pleading position.


"You're not, Ingne," his former practice partner retaliated. "There's something wrong with you, and you need to be examined by a doctor."


Hearing such line again, the soldier gave his former practice partner a glare. This again? He was quite tired of hearing this garbage over and over. It was a curse; there was nothing wrong with him. Surely, once the abyssal gazelles were satisfied, it would clear up.


Ingne giving him that glare again, the former practice partner sighed. He wasn't going to give up this charade, was he? He was always so stubborn, it had been quite the troublesome trait. But, he supposed he would give him a gag order for about an hour or two.


"If you insist, Ingne, go towards south Liyue and grab Sigils of Permission left lying around," his former practice partner said. "They're near the southern beach in Yaoguang Shoal."


Former practice partner giving him a bow in gratitude, Egor let out a sigh. While such gag order about there being Sigils of Permission around was a fib, such was a necessary step. Strings set up everywhere, he watched as he stumbled away. Everyone had been informed of the current situation. This was the final straw left out to dry.


Leaving the inn, the soldier's head spun as the order replayed in his head. He had to do what now? Collect left behind Sigils of Permission? He did not know why, but something about that felt like a fake order. But, he shook his head in a rapid manner. Why would he be given a mission that wasn't real? He was jumping to conclusions.


Everything twisting and turning aplenty, the soldier had begun to trail off towards the wrong direction. Staying within the inn establishment, the early adult ascended the staircase. World around him zoning out, he kept ascending with all his might. Panting up a storm upon reaching the top, everything blurred together.


Continuing to catch his breath, the soldier swore he could hear someone walk by. Hearing such, the early adult could feel a chill drop down his spine at the sight before him. Yaksha looking his way with a serious look glued onto his face, the hyena's rocky knees shook. The mountain demon, why was he looking at him like that? What did he want?


"I sense evil in you," the yaksha said in an ominous tone.


Hearing such, the hyena's heart had begun to beat five meters a minute. The mountain demon, had he just discerned his identity. He's done for now. A goner, finished, taken completely out of the picture, for sure. He needed to apologize right here, right now, without question.


"I'm sorry, sir! Please don't kill me!" the hyena shouted, words slurring. But confusion soon came his way.


"I'm? Not going to?" the yaksha responded, confused tone of voice. "I sensed some miasma in you." But, another apology came his way.


"I'm sorry, sir!" the hyena cried, words slurring. "I'll go!"


Dashing down the stairs, the soldier continued to run off towards the opposite direction. But, as he had begun running, the yaksha chased after him. Seeing such, the early adult kept dashing away. Reaching Dihua Marsh, the soldier swore he had begun to dash off faster towards him.


"You're going the wrong way?" the yaksha called out to him in a questioning tone. "Didn't that human of yours tell you to go south?" He then turned around. "Apologies. I was mistaken about the evil I sensed in you. Bye." As he said such, he poofed away.


Yaksha soon gone, the early adult tilted his head. What was that all about? Was there evil in him, or not? This yaksha couldn't make up his mind. Turning himself around, the early adult readied to head back towards the southern path. But, as he attempted to walk, his legs remained frozen in place for more than ten minutes.


Movement impossible, the hyena dropped himself down onto all fours. He had no choice. Hands acting as his feet, his limbs dragged behind him as he pushed through the Marsh. Moving through the bridge, he swore multiple people and monsters gave him glares of a lifetime.


Moving onwards towards Guili Plains, the early adult kept his eyes open. Spotting Hilichurls in the corner, the soldier crawled towards them with all his might. His former practice partner said the Sigils of Permission were left lying around. Surely, they had to be with some monsters.


But, such had been far from the case. Not spotting a single piece of paper with Liyuean sealed writing on it, the hyena's head spun. Surely, there had to have been one that strayed away from the path on Yaoguang Shoal.
Leaving the area behind, the soldier readied himself to head for the beach.


Teyvat's most common enemies looking at him funny, the early adult blinked. The Hilichurls did they feel pity for him? How annoying. But, he supposed he was exaggerating. There was no way those monsters had any complex emotions. He needed to move onwards towards the eastern area.


Still spotting not a singular Sigil of Permission, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. The beach was nearing, how could there not have been a single one out there anymore? But, he supposed he would come across some of them soon. Crawling forward, the sand soon crunched underneath his crystalled hands.


But, as the young soldier approached the sand's edges of Guili Plains, the soldier had begun to teem with sweat. Why was Liyue so incredibly sweltering today. Wasn't it autumn? Or, had it been summer? The chimera did not know. Everything had started to blend together into a soup.


Taking a long, deep breath, the early adult attempted to stand up. Blood rushing back to his legs, the soldier had begun to stumble as he walked. The world was burning, boiling, melting. Zoning out as he walked upon the beach, the hyena sauntered onward. Sigils of Permission, he needed to locate Sigils of Permission.


Swaying further, the early adult slumped over. Hitting something, the chimera flinched. Had he just bumped into someone? Whoever it was, he needed to apologize for such right now. Picking himself upward, he turned his head towards the person affected. Panda chimera looking his way with heavy concern, the early adult's ears grew hot. He sees now. He was sent to Yaoguang Shoal as a trap. This was a setup, guaranteed.


Feeling a rocky shoulder bump up against her, Yinlong placed her hands on her pocket. Had there been a Hilichurl nearby throwing arrows at her? But, what awaited her upon turning around was far worse than finding herself in monster territory. Siorc rubbing against her for a brief moment looking ready to collapse, she could feel everything sink around her. Arms and legs completely pitch black with stone and pieces of blue mineral picking out of them, warning bells sounded inside her. Something wasn't right. But, she knew she had to act natural, at least for a moment.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yinlong greeted, suspiciously fast. "You don't look so hot. Let's go see Mr. -------."


Hearing Yinlong mention the tall brunette, the chimera could feel a vein pop inside him. So, the panda chimera could be annoying sometimes too. How unfortunate. What would the tall brunette be able to do? He wasn't needed here. The panda chimera should just mind his own business and go back to running.


"No, Yinlong. Please, go back to running," the hyena accidentally blurted out. But, such point was shut down immediately.


"But, Siorc, your arms and legs are covered in stone!" Yinlong cried, words oddly fast. "I don't think that's normal! Let's go see Mr. -------, he knows everything about rocks and minerals!"


Raising his hands up towards the air, the soldier waved the invisible white flag. He supposed it wasn't nice of him to be defiant towards a friend. Giving the panda a nod, his hand had soon been pulled into a light squeeze. Escorted upward, the party of two had soon reached Sal Terrae.


Tall brunette studying the salt of the area, the hyena lowered his eyes into a glare. What was he doing, exactly? If he were busy, they really ought to not disturb him. Attempting to let go of the panda's hand, the soldier trudged forward. But, such had been a failure. Yinlong not budging, the two waited. Wise man soon turning towards them, he broke the silence.


"Miss Yinlong, is something the matter?" the tall brunette asked. "You look quite perturbed about something." As he said such, his eyes wandered off towards the hyena chimera.


"Apologies for disturbing you while you're researching Mr. -------," Yinlong apologized, bowing. "But, there's something wrong with my friend! His arms..." But as she said such, she had begun shaking.


"Your friend has been consumed by toxic Noctilucous Jade," the tall brunette said in a matter of fact tone.


"What?" Yinlong responded, face full of tears. "Will he be okay?" Tears continued to fall while the question left her and the man shook his head.


"I am afraid I have never seen a severe case like this before," the tall brunette responded. He then turned towards the young man. "If one were to keep pressing on and ignoring the issue, it will most certainly be fatal."


Hearing the chatter, the hyena slumped down onto the ground. Toxic poisoning? Fatal? A severe case? No. That couldn't be true. This had to have been some sort of joke. Right, this was a curse. Fatal? Fatal. What a funny word. Laughing, the word set in. Toxic poisoning, fatal. The abyssal gazelles, they had done it now. He was a goner. But, as the doom spiral kept going, he had been lifted up like a princess.


"Alright, Ingne, enough wandering around," the former practice partner said in a serious tone. "Let's get you back to bed." But, as he reached into his back pocket, an interruption kicked in.


"You're his big bad boss that came to me earlier, right?" Yinlong asked. "Take him to Miss Loba. He's--" But her words had been cut off.


"It has been arranged, Jinzi," the absent sun in the sky responded. "Thank you for cooperating with me."


Teleport Waypoint proxy orb soon ceased, the early adult shook like a maraca as he laid still in his former practice partner's hand. Did he just say what he thought he said? He sees now, this was all a setup. All of this was planned. Why hadn't he seen it coming? His brain was fried to a crisp for him to have not have, guaranteed.


Waypoint towards the military barracks soon highlighted, the early adult could feel himself continue to shake. The poison jade inside him, it was consuming him. It was fatal, deadly, the final death knell in the coffin. Dizziness overtaking him, the world spun. This was fatal, it was over, it had been his fault it had reached this point. He had done this to himself.


Former practice partner carrying him through the hallways, the soldier could feel himself drift away. But, his thoughts soon reigned supreme. The abyssal gazelles, why would they do something like this to him? Were they proud of themselves? They got what they wanted, revenge. If he were succumb, they would celebrate.


Placed underneath the bed covers, the generic nobody soon stepped out for a moment. Returning ten minutes later, the early adult could feel a shiver drop down his spine. Second heavy weighted blanket brought in rolled, and cup of water in the man's left hand, the hyena attempted to reject the offerings. But, he had been silenced almost immediately.


"Ingne, no more fighting. Your battle is done," the former practice partner said in a matter of fact tone. As he said such, he placed the blanket over him, tucking it underneath the lighter one. "I've brought you some water." But, he soon changed his tone. "Can you swallow? Don't bother trying to lie anymore. It's not going to work anymore."


Hearing such, the early adult blinked in a daze. Egor, just how much had he figured out by now? He knew everything. Staring at the water, he could feel the jade in his throat ready to drop out another piece of itself. Giving a head shake, a sharp and serious look soon appeared on the generic face in front of him.


"I suspected as much, Ingne," Egor responded, shaking his head. "I will be informing Kawu of everything." As he said such, he removed the young man's glasses. "I apologize, Ingne, I know you do not want this, but it has to be done." Reaching for his hair, his hands had been on his hair charms, but he soon recoiled at the look of despair on his face. "Do you wish for me to not touch the charms in your hair?" He asked, moving his hand back. "Apologies for breaking boundaries, Ingne."


Hearing his former practice partner's salad of words, the early adult could feel the world crack. He was going to inform the jackal chimera of everything? It was over, for sure. Her Majesty would order she euthanize him, guaranteed. A dog ready to put down. Generic nobody moving his hands away from his hairpins, the hyena removed his prized possession from his hair and ears. Attempting to apologize, the hyena opened his mouth. But, everything hurt too much to say anything.


Former practice partner gently taking his jewelry and accessory he squirmed, for a moment. Someone other than him had put them away. But, there was nothing that could be done about such. Training grounds soldier returning his way, his blankets had been adjusted. Feeling a sense of comfort, the hyena readied to close his eyes.


"Ingne, it's alright," the former practice partner said. "Just get some rest." As he said such, he turned around. "See you tomorrow. Try not to stress yourself out, alright?"


Former practice partner soon exiting the area, the soldier closed his eyes. Thoughts racing for a moment as he prepared to doze off, the tormenting world of dreams was ready to call him back in. Land of sleep dragging him down, one last thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


The toxic jade inside him, it would soon proof fatal. Could anyone save him?


No.


It was too late. The curse was fatal.

 

[Palamon]

25. Fontaine Flower Scavenger Hunt: Health Intervention Mission

"It hurts, I can barely
Take this anymore.


Hahahahaha, fatal toxic poisoning. This is the
Ultimate death sentence.
Really, how am I
Truly going to survive this?
Something tells me it's too late.


Hahahahahahahaha.
Everything hurts, I
Look like I sorry case.
Please, take this all away from me.


Maybe I don't have that much time left,
Every moment could be my last, so


I must ask:
The Abyssal gazelles:


Is this the revenge you wanted?
Something tells me that it was.


Oh, archons, why? I do
Not believe I deserved this
Look, I know I am a member of the Fatui.
Yes, I know I


Get that, truly.
Everyone in society wishes
That we disappear, I understand
That. I know that, I know that
I get it, I know. But,
No poisoning is the answer. I
Guess this is punishment.


Well, it is what it is
Obviously, this is my fate.
Right, it's my fate. It's been
Sealed. It's been destroyed.
Everything is unraveling.


I can't take it no more.


Why is this happening?
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.
'Should one ignore


This it could most certainly be fatal.'
Oh, that's right it is my fault.
Look at what I've done to myself. I
Did myself in.


It's all because of me.
That's the case,


Well, I am not allowed to
Stop working, I am not


Permitted, I know that, had to keep going
Or Her Majesty would kill me, well,
I guess that no longer matters
Since I am now in a critical state.
Oh, Archons if you're listening
Now would be a good time


For you to free me from my suffering.
Ahahaha, wait, that's right,
That's right. They can't hear me
Ahahahahaha, they're not
Listening. They are


Turning a blind eyes and ears.
Obviously they would not look upon someone with abyssal energy. I am
Xeric; dry, stony.
It's the end for me. I
Cannot eat, breathe.


Please, just end me.
Oh, please just end me
I am hurting
So much more than ever before
Oh, please just end me
No more of this pain,


No more of this pain, no more
Of this pain,


No more of this pain. No more
Of more of this pain


No more of this pain, no more
Of this pain!


Hahahahaha. Hahaha,
Onwards towards the end,
Will her Majesty tell me to


Continue working until the end?
Or will she feel pity?
Ultimately, I don't know.
Looks like it could be either outcome.
Don't let myself die here in


This cold breeze, I refuse to yield in this place.
Hahahahahahahahaha, as
If that is up to me,
So much is decided for me. I


Bet that even my
End has been too.


Hahahahaha, right, right,
Ah, right. How could I forget? I'm a
Pawn. Nothing more than a
Piece on the chessboard.
Everyone knows I am
Nothing more than an object
In war. I know that.
Nothing matters I
Get that by now.


After all, it has almost been eight years since I was
Removed from my home
Converted into a soldier.
How could I forget?
Onwards towards my end,
Nothing convinces me more that I
Soon will outlive my usefulness.


No, no, no, I am
Overthinking. I am overthinking.


Stop dooming and glooming, stop
All these thoughts. The
Venom inside me is breaking me,
Everything is negative.


Maybe there is still a chance
Everything will be fine.


Pray to all the archons for a
Light speed recovery.
Everything will be fine
All of this will go away
So stop dooming and glooming.
Everything will be fine, everything will be fine. Everything will be fine."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult life. The cycle was a never ending whirlpool that spun in the oceans, swiping boats away without any chance of survival. The ships would break apart, turning into pieces of debris. The night before him was no different as well.


Before him had a been a field of glowing Lycoris Radiata. Seeing such flowers, a wave of heavy unease flowed through the soldier. Why were the flowers glowing so brightly? He did not know why, but the soldier could feel the urge to run away right this instant. He knew, if he were go near such plants, he would be lifeless, in an instant.


Such action was cancelled before it could even begin. Feeling an invisible force pull him closer, getting away was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Attempting to break free, the early adult let out a grunt. Force only getting stronger with every dream second, the hyena surrendered himself. The spider lilies were only getting closer; it was too late.


Dragged towards the edge, but what awaited him here was a world of terror. Flowers dancing like they were in a fantasy land, the early adult grit the dream teeth. Were the spider lilies asking him to dance to his death? No way, not a chance. He refuses; veto. Attempting to turn towards the direction he came, the hyena tried with all his might to run once again. But, such continued to remain impossible.


Legs moving on their own, the chimera had begun to dance against his subconscious will. Flower's vines grabbing his hand, the soldier had begun to do the tango. Forced to spin and dive down, the hyena swore he could hear the plants begin to laugh at him. Vines soon on his arms, a gift had been left behind.


Lilies caressing his arms, the chimera's veins had begun to glow with a fervor. Veins dyed a bright crimson, tears streamed down the early adult's subconscious face. What was happening? What did the flowers just do to him? Plants continuing their embrace, the scarlet only grew deeper.


Every single visible vein coursing with red after about two dream minutes, the hyena let out a scream. He had been laid with the curse of the spider lily. Was he about to become one with the flowerbed? But, such had only been the beginning of the terrors that loomed in the depths of his inner world.


Person rising up from the ground as if razing from the dead had been a short young woman with light brown skin. Short black and white hair that went down to about her chin held together with a golden safety pin, the chimera shivered as he observed her pupils. Red eyes that looked as dead as the night, the chimera attempted to look away. Was this the look of death? Something wasn't quite right with this girl. White dress with bandaged arms, blue tassels everywhere, bare toes with golden jewelry and white leggings, the hyena ended his examination.


Seeing such a person, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had he ever encountered this person before in the mortal, waking world? He could not help but feel he had never seen them before in all his life. But, he supposed he had to have if she were appearing in his subconscious mind. He couldn't be bothered to remember every single face he had encountered in the mortal, waking world.


Young lady taking out a set of bandages, the soldier broke out into a cold shiver. This woman, was she about to turn him into some sort of mummy? Attempting to turn towards the opposite direction, the hyena tried to bolt once more. But, a nonexistent adhesive locked the chimera's currently human legs into place. He was doomed, done for, about to bandaged up to the wazoo.


Woman soon coming closer, the bandages had been unraveled. Arms gone, a simulated sense of stickiness overtook the hyena. Girl swinging around the back, nothing remained of his four limbs. Torso soon decimated as well, the early adult could feel a wave of doom flow through him. What's going on, why is she wrapping him up so tightly? Was this the world of mummification in action? His thoughts, however, were cut out by loud guffaws.


"Lord of Sand, your sacrifice is ready!" the girl shouted.


Hearing such, the early adult flinched. He was being sacrificed to some god? How could this be happening? Coffin soon appearing out of nowhere, the chimera had been picked up off his taped feet. Dropped into the bed of death, darkness overtook the soldier. Everything around him invisible, not a single speck of light remained.


Feeling himself spun around for dream minutes on end, the early adult shook with a fervor. What was this, some sort of party game? Why was such action necessary? Laughs only getting more maniacal as the seconds went on, the young soldier could feel himself break. Something terrifying was about to happen to him, guaranteed.


Coffin dropped downward, a sea of spikes poked through the casket. Spiky points slicing through to the other side, Every single needle of doom missing him, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. Was that all? Perhaps, just maybe, this dream was letting the torment end here.


An astronomically, incorrect assumption on his part.


Rotten hands opening up the casket, the chimera had soon been in the palm's clutches. Disgusting, black limbs grabbing him from the neck, the hyena could feel his dream breath fade away as he had begun to dangle from the ground. Loud, powerful laughter soon overtaking the world, the early adult gasped for air.


"You have chosen the right sacrifice," a powerful voice said.


As the hands pressed further down into the soldier's neck, the early adult could feel a the world around him begin to break. Air beginning to leak out, the early adult kept gasping. Head being shook in a rapid manner, the chimera swore he could feel a simulated crack in his throat. World darkening around him, one final set of thoughts flowed through him as his subconscious life fell to ruin.


Why him? Why was he the sacrifice?


***


"I don't understand. I truly


Do not get it. I have to do what now? Look for flowers?
Oh, honestly, none of this is adding up.


Not one bit. Not
One little bit.
This makes absolutely no sense.


Utter nonsense. I do not get it.
No, not at all, to any single
Degree. Is this supposed to be a job?
Even I know at this point this is
Really not a good idea.
Surely, this has to be some sort of trick.
This can't be real.
Ah, who am I kidding?
No way Her Majesty truly cares about me.
Don't forget, I am nothing more than a pawn.


That much will always remain at a constant.
How could I forget that?
I know I will always have to work, no matter how
Stable or not I may be.


Ah, it is what it is.
Nothing surprises me anymore.
Yes, there might be poison in
Me, but it
Obviously doesn't matter to Her Majesty.
Right, how could I forget? I'm nothing more than a pawn.
Everything besides work doesn't matter.


I know that. I am fully aware of


That. That's how it always is.
Right, I mustn't forget the
Ultimate thing. I'm Her Majesty's tool.
Little else matters.
Yes, that's how it is.


Do not question anything.
Or I'll be killed, guaranteed.


No. Maybe this is some sort
Of setup. My former practice partner,
The previous


Night, he said he would see me again tomorrow.
Or, maybe I just misheard.
That could very much be the case.
How could this be happening?
I do not know, how could someone set this flower hunt up? I do
Not know. Nothing is adding up.
Guess I have no choice but to do as


I am told.
So, off to Fontaine I go.


Maybe this will go quickly,
After all, it's merely a hunt. I do
Know what today might entail, but
I know I have to work,
No matter what.
Get ready for the


Scavenger hunt. Whatever this might
Entail? It's a mystery.
Nothing is adding up to two,
So, off I go to Fontaine.
Everything is strange, truly."


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave the chimera's partially human mind. The poisons, had they affected his nightmares, too? He did not know, but he knew he could not sit here, lying in bed. The day had begun. But, as he rose himself from the covers, disturbances came into the force.


Feeling an intense wave of heat emanate through him, the chimera stood still. Wave of stony discomfort overtaking his throat and stomach, the hyena attempted to take a long, deep breath. But, such attempt was futile. Hacking up a storm, the early adult's airwaves had begun to tighten. Hitting his chest, the early adult forced himself to raise from the bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


Lifting up his bedwear for a moment, the early adult observed his body. Not spotting any new stone sprouting up anywhere, the soldier tilted his head. The jade, had it stopped spreading? He could not help but feel a heavy wave of confusion realizing such. Knowing he could not sit in his bed any longer, the soldier attempted to step forward.


Such movement was a carcass in a casket. Dead and gone, with no one coming to the funeral. Wave of intense dizziness immediately taking him over, the chimera fell backwards onto the icy cold floor. Breath cutting out, the early adult huffed and puffed up a storm. Why did it feel like he had just run three marathons back to back?


Attempting to get up once more, everything remained still. Legs nothing but a statue, the chimera placed his hands on the ground. Knowing he had no choice but to drag himself forward, the soldier crawled towards his uniform drawers as if he had reduced himself back to infancy.


Heart beating harder and faster in his chest as his crawl about kept on going, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera. What was going on? Why was it getting even harder to breathe? But, the hyena numbed himself. There was no time to ask such questions. He needed to get ready right away.


Clinging to the edges of his dresser drawers, the chimera opened the container meekly. Winter jacket and layered shirts out in front of him, the soldier prepared himself. Lifting his head up, the early adult removed his sleepwear slowly, but surely. Layered shirts soon upon him, the hyena dragged a breath as if he had been smoking his entire life.


As his uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could possibly be awaiting him today? He no longer knew. Her Majesty, she had been aware of his current condition. Would she still order he perform work anyway? He knew, no matter how fatigued he might have been, such was a possibility at hand.


Clasping his buttons shut, the soldier shook his head. Of course he would be working today. Her Majesty, why would she care about his current condition? He was nothing more than a pawn, a chess piece upon the board to move forward. His health was always the last priority. If he could move, he could work. That had to have been how she operated.


Numbing himself further, Siorc clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching windwheel asters in his hair, and ears, the world spun in circles. Feeling himself begin to fall backwards once more, the hyena's eyes fluttered closed. Opening them once more after a few minutes, the chimera flinched. What in the world was he doing, falling asleep at a time like this? The Agent would kill him if he saw he wasn't ready by the time he were to arrive.


Picking himself up once more, the curse of unsteadiness soon returned with a vengeance. Why was everything trying to fight him today? He didn't have time for this, in the slightest. Leaning against his dresser edges once more, the early adult reached for the top of his drawers. Dendro Vision secured, the orb had been hooked onto his uniform pants.


Staring down at the yellow-green orb, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could he even fight any battles today? He did not think so. There was no way he could wield a greatsword with any sort of accuracy. Gloves slipped on, and buttons slightly adjusted, the early adult dragged himself towards the corner of the room.


Heelless shoes on, the soldier dragged himself back towards his uniform drawers. Bowl of gruel seated in his hands, the chimera gulped. Would he even be able to eat this today? Stealing himself, the soldier darted the spoon down into the saucer. Fingers shaking, the utensil shook hands with his mouth.


But, as the food travelled down the esophagus, the feeling of jade tickled the hyena's throat. Gloved hands over his mouth, the early adult leaned downward towards the ground. Everything reversing back upwards, the hyena let out disgusted noises. Ground decorated, a rancid scent invaded his nostrils.


Floor gifted with a disgusting present once again after a few seconds, a wave of tears flowed through the hyena. Why couldn't he eat, even just a little? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. He was a hyena chimera. He could go months without eating if push came to shove.


Removing the cleaning supplies, the early adult had begun scrubbing with all his might. Ammonia taking over, the soldier tried with all his might to tune the stench out. Why was everything so much stronger than him today? If there was a strength scale, he would be at the bottom of such, without a shadow of a doubt.


Pool of disgustingness cleaned up without a trace, the chimera stood to his stony feet. Any minute now and the Agent or his former practice partner would stomp on by. He knew, no matter what order were about to grace him, he had to be ready for anything. Taking a labored deep breath, the early adult waited.


But, no such footsteps ever came. Nothing happening for five minutes, the early adult shook with a fervor. The Agent, was he not coming today? Surely, that couldn't have been the case. He knew he had to keep waiting, no matter what. Remaining still, the soldier kept his patience.


Fifteen minutes soon passing, silence overtook the area. No one walking by his door, the early adult slapped his ears. Had the world gone completely silent? But, he knew that could not have been the case. His ears were working, for sure. Surely, any second now someone would come by to relay his orders.


No one coming as the time had begun to hover around the half-an-hour mark, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Had he woken up late today? Not hearing a single groan upon waking up, the hyena shook harder. If he was tardy, he was done, finished, as good as dead.


Snapping himself out of it, the early adult headed towards the door. Surely, someone had to have been coming. Late, or not, he had to have work to do. There was no way anyone would ever allow him to sleep in. But, what awaited him as he walked towards the door was a puzzle piece too many.


On his door had been a note. Words written in Snezhnayan writing as usual, the early adult adjusted his glasses. Why was this here? Knowing he did not have any more time to waste, the young soldier gazed at the spaghetti in front of him. Lowering his eyes into a squint, everything soon became clear.


"Fontaine Flower Scavenger Hunt!


I hereby agree to enter the Fontaine Flower Scavenger Hunt occurring the day this notice has been read.


Signed,
Siorc." the note in clear Snezhnayan writing had said.


Signature forged at the bottom of the paper, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Who signed this on his behalf? Wasn't forging a signature against the law? Whoever did this was about to get in so much trouble, for sure. He did not consent to this, not at all. Who signed him up for a scavenger hunt, at a time like this? What did any of this hve to do with being a part of the Fatui?


Reading the note over again, the soldier's head had begun to spin. He had to do what now? Go on a flower scavenger hunt? Why? None of this made any sort of sense, whatsoever. There had to have been some sort of catch. Everything smelled like fish. Had there been something secret hidden on the backside of the sheet? Flipping it over, more words awaited him.


"Teleport to the edges of the Sumeru Desert. Do not teleport anywhere else after this," the note in clear Snezhnayan writing said.


Reading through such once more, the soldier let out a sigh. What was all this? A scavenger hunt in Fontaine? Was this some sort of trap set out for him? He could not help but wonder. Her Majesty, just what in the world was he thinking? What did she want flowers for? What use would they be to her?


But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. None of that mattered. Whatever Her Majesty orders goes. Taking a long, labored breath, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Highlighting the desert edges waypoint, the hyena pressed the teleport button. Action confirmed, the chimera closed his eyes as the fast travel towards the border to Fontaine began. But, as it was about to reach its end, one final thought slipped outward.


A scavenger hunt, really? Why this?


***


"I simply cannot believe this! I


Esquire, have been roped into
Something stupid and
Quite ugly! My brother and I came to Fontaine to
Unleash new business strategies with our cousin, but
It's been halted! How
Retched! This turn of
Events is quite ugly, if you ask me! We didn't


Come here by boat just to hear
All talks are off!
Nope, I'd rather go straight back home and cancel this two month or so long excursion! But,
Nope, when we entered out cousin's home she had to
Open her mouth, and say, 'Ah, Marquis, Esquire, I am afraid
That all current business talks between us are off. There's


Been an emergency.' An
Emergency? The only emergency here is me! Moi! The one who came here to expand our business? Hello!
Look, if it has nothing to do with our family,
It can wait! Whatever this so called
Emergency it, it's most certainly not urgent! It is
Very much so not urgent! So, I
Esquire, say, 'Nothing seems


Wrong here.'
However, it would seem I should have even said that!
As our dear loving cousin
Then told us. 'Darling, nothing


Is wrong with us. This involves someone else.'


And that's when some woman with long light blue hair came stomping in.
Marquis looked ready to throw some


Hands! I know he's done with all of this, too.
'Esquire, apologies. I know in your letters you said something
About expanding your fashion business, but it
Really must wait.' Our cousin paused, for a moment.
'I was going to write a letter to tell you two to
Not come. But, I
Guess that never came.'


I cannot believe this! This is ugly! What


Could be so urgent that our visit was cancelled? Kaiser
Again? He's ugly right now! That's not
My fault. But, it would seem this
Emergency or whatever, involves someone else.


This woman. I guess her name is Loba
Or something. She started


Flapping her stupid gums
Out and about with this
Nonsense. 'Are you are the one
That stupid human
Asked me to meet?'
I, what. What did I just walk into.
Now our cousin said. 'Apologies, darling. I don't know who you speak of. Could you refresh my memory?'
Every second here, wasted.


'The stupid human in the dragon mask,' the woman name Loba soon replied.
Oh, this is rich. Guess what happens next! This


Distraction of a woman
In medical uniform
Said the one who
Came by the evening before.
Utter nonsense and trash!
Surely, whatever this is
Should wait!


But no, this rich garbage continues. Our cousin soon
Uttered. 'Right, him. This
Is about Siorc, right?'
Siorc, whoever that
Is, who cares? We have business to attend to!
No more of this cheap nonsense. But,
Everything stops when I hear the
Stupidest of garbage. This doctor woman,
She says something absolutely


Wild, and out of left field! 'That would be correct, Miss Malika.
I need you to assist me with something. Is
That alright?'
How can this be? Utter ridiculousness!


My stars, this can't keep getting more ridiculous.
Yield, yield! Stop the brakes!


Can you believe what she
Opened her mouth
Up to say next? She
Said, 'Of course, Miss Loba. What
Is it that you will be
Needing us to do?'


But, oh, just wait, it gets worse!
Utterly worse, I tell you! I cannot
Take any more of this nonsense! So,


It goes like this. This woman she said, this dude named Siorc


Has been inflicted with a
A deadly, severe case of toxic poisoning. Fatal
Venom, or whatever. The whole
Enchilada of death looming right


Beneath him, or something.
Eh, sorry for your loss, I guess.
Everyone gets there eventually. But,
Nope, this doctor said, she needs help to stage an intervention.


Really, now? He's dying, isn't he?
Or something. I don't know, lost me at the first few words.
Please, get on it with it. Go on.
Even so, this
Dumb conversation continues.


It went like this. 'An intervention? I would be able to, but you
Need to fill me in on
The details, Miss Loba.' And
On and on this woman goes.


And guess what she says? This Siorc dude is stubborn, and there's
No way he would agree unless


It's passed off as some kind of job for his work.
Nah, like, honestly if
This dude is that stubborn, just let him die from his own stubbornness.
Everyone goes on and on and on,
Rambling on about this forever. This is
Very annoying! The one time I thought
Everything would be fine this time,
Nothing is! Now our big break in
The fashion business is put on hold over this
Infinitely annoying problem, that might I add has nothing to do with
Our family. But, of course our cousin, she couldn't say
No. She had to agree. Why is she


Playing this game? All of this is so hideous, ugly.
Looks like they're going to be setting up some flower scavenger hunt
Or whatever. Count me out, but no!
That door was closed, too.


Soon, our cousin asked for both
Of us to cooperate with this plan!


Ugh, whatever!
Guess we aught to! Woe is me!
Look, I will not be doing any of this willingly!
Yikes, everyone is just so ugly. Putrid, annoying!"


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the world spun around the chimera as he trudged off towards the edge of the mountainsides. Blinking out of existence for a brief moment, the soldier slipped off the edge. Dropping swifter than his mind could follow, the early adult closed his eyes. Carefulness was a dead soldier upon the battlefield.


Cold hands grabbing ahold of him, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. What was his former practice partner doing here? Placed onto the ground for a moment, a cool hand had been over his forehead. Flinching, the early adult tried to shake it off. But, no energy remained. Former practice partner shaking his head, he soon spoke.


"You're worse than you were yesterday, Ingne," the former practice partner said, shaking his head.


Hearing such words regarding his condition, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. If he was in worse shape today, why had Her Majesty ordered him to go on a scavenger hunt today? One plus one was not equaling two whatsoever. Energy dying out, the chimera could feel his words about to break out of his control.


"Then why are we doing a scavenger hunt?" Siorc accidentally blurted out.


Hearing Ingne's question, the former practice partner gazed at the young man's flushed face. Ingne was certainly far more talkative lately. He knew he could not tell him the truth about the intervention that had been plotted. While lying was an awful action to convene to, he knew he did not have a choice, or there would be no cooperation rom the other end whatsoever.


"It would seem there was a mix up in your schedule, Ingne," the former practice partner responded. "But, it was too late before Her Majesty noticed to cancel it."


Hearing such obvious lie, the early adult rose an eyebrow. That excuse sounded so fake and forced. But, the hyena could feel his energy die further. It was no use trying to argue it. Shrugging his jade covered shoulders, the chimera surrendered. Orders were orders, truthful or not. Soon picked up off his feet and placed on the former sun in the sky's back, more words soon came his way.


"I will be taking you to the Court of Fontaine," his former practice partner said. "Try and rest up until then."


Placed into a laying position within the wooden vessel, the hyena eyed his former practice partner, readying the lasers to beam. This man, he was hiding something for him, for sure. Absolutely nothing was adding up about any of this whatsoever. Words flowing out without his control, the world halted, for a moment.


"Sir, what are you hiding from me?" the hyena accidentally blurted out. But, an instant apology had come his way.


"Apologies, Ingne, I am not allowed to talk about this mission any further," his former practice responded, remorse evident in his voice. "Please forgive me." Placing the rudders in his hands, he prepared himself to move forward. "Get some rest until we reach the harbor, alright?"


Former practice partner pushing the wooden vessel forward, the early adult stared off into space. Everyone was being so incredibly sneaky today. What in the world was going on? Why were things being kept from him? This was quite below par, even for the Fatui.


As the boat kept cruising forward, the early adult surrendered. He supposed, everyone had their secrets. It was best to not ask about anything that was not his business. He knew better than to stick his nose in where it was not welcome. Head spinning cycles, the young soldier closed his eyes.


Feeling a tap on his shoulder, the hyena opened his eyes once more. Finding himself in Romaritime Harbor, the early adult shook like a leaf. How long had he been out. Trying to let out an apology, a finger had been placed by his lips. Former practice partner telling him to not apologize, he had soon been brought onto the ground.


Former practice partner soon placing a bag on his back, a heavy wave of bewilderment flowed through the chimera. Why is there a satchel on his back? What's going on? Where did this come from? Questions flocking in one after another. Where was he, anyway? How did he get here. But, a hand had once again been plastered to his forehead.


Look of confusion on Ingne's face, the former practice partner could not help but feel wrecked with worry. Had he been experiencing delirium from his alarmingly high body temperature? Keeping his hand upon the young man's temple, heat threatened to give his hand a first degree burn.


"Your temperature has definitely gone up, Ingne," Egor said, shaking his head. "And don't give me that same excuse from the other day that you're hotter than humans. That's not going to work this time."


Hearing his former practice partner catch his forthcoming excuse purple handed, the early adult kept himself silent. He supposed it wasn't worth trying to say anything in defense. Shrugging, he had soon been placed into a bridal carry. Realizing such, the chimera could feel his cheeks grow hot. Why couldn't he carry him the normal way? He was not his wife ready to be taken down the aisle.


Former practice partner informing him he'll be going with him on the Aquabus, the button at the station had soon been pressed. Absolutely no one around, a wave of unease flowed through everyone. Where in the world was everyone? Why was it so quiet here? He could not help but feel a wave of unease cling onto him.


Aquabus arriving shortly, the soldier swore the Melusine on board if there was some kind of emergency. But, the soldier's hearing soon fuzzed out. Feeling himself begin to drift away as the former practice partner took his seat, the chimera could feel himself move back into the dream world.


Waking up as the automatic vehicle reached the Court of Fontaine, the soldier could feel a wave of embarrassment flowed through him. How could he allow himself to fall asleep yet again? If Her Majesty were watching him right about now, she would kill him, for sure. He needed to apologize to the Melusine tour guide right away.


"I'm sorry for falling asleep, miss!" the hyena exclaimed, words labored. But, she shook her head, in an instant.


"It's quite alright," the Melusine said, shaking her head. But, the former practice partner soon tagged himself into the ring.


"Don't worry about it, Ingne," the former practice partner said, shaking his head. As he said such, he reached into his back pocket. "Here are your instructions. Have fun with the scavenger hunt." As he said such, he placed the soldier onto the ground.


As the early adult readied to move forward, the soldier swore he could see the former practice partner sprinkle something upon his uniform. But, the hyena shook such off. What was he thinking? He had to have imagined it. Dragging his feet towards the capital city's entrance, the soldier read over his instructions, for a moment.


Notes informing him to look around the city then head off towards the Beryl Region, the chimera's knees buckled. If he had to dive today, at least he could have his equipment move for him underwater. Folding the instructions and placing them into his pocket, the early adult readied to move himself forward.


Knowing he would have to return to the Aquabus later, the chimera had begun dragging his feet towards the northern pathway. But, something had been incredibly off. No one on the city streets nor coming in and out of the city, the unease nibbled on the cartilage of the hyena's ear. Why was everything so quiet? What was going on today?


As the chimera kept walking upon the northern path, a strange set of flowers glared daggers at the hyena. Peculiar looking closed up roses adorning many different colors, the chimera scratched his chin. What were these doing here in such a place? Crouching downward, the early adult plucked the plants from their abode.


Moving forward, the early adult could feel his chest tighten itself up. Feeling such, the early adult attempted to take a deep breath. But, a thick, hoarse cough hacked away for no one to hear. Slapping his chest, the hyena kept moving. He couldn't let his current state delay his mission for even a moment.


Dragging his feet readying to curve west, more flowers awaited the chimera. Closed, colorful buds everywhere, the early adult yanked them from the ground. Studying them, for a moment, the young soldier tilted his head, for a moment. Was it just his imagination, or did something feel like paper?


But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. What in the world was he thinking? There was absolutely no way that could have possibly been the case. He was confusing himself, without a doubt. There was no way that these plants were made out of paper. How would they be able to stick into the ground?


Moving himself along, even more pieces to the puzzle added themselves to his flower collection. Plants still feeling rather papery, the soldier could feel his head begin to spin. Had the poison begun to shift his sense of touch, as well? Nothing was making any sort of sense, whatsoever.


Pulse in his head only getting stronger, the chimera could feel himself begin to sway. But, the soldier attempted to snap himself out of it. It was way too early for him to show any weakness. The scavenger hunt had only just gotten started. Pushing himself onto the northwestern path, the early adult kept looking for items for his hunt.


Multiple flowers gathered, the chimera huffed and puffed. Why did it feel like every step he was taking was equivalent to three marathons being run in a row? He knew that wasn't the case, but it most certainly felt like it was, at the moment. Woozy world coming back to haunt him, the city blurred.


Pushing himself forward, more papery plants had been in the hyena's possession. Breath shortening even further as he dragged himself along the path, the swaying soon continued. Control dying faster than a Slime at the lowest possible strength, the chimera dropped downward towards the ground.


Feeling himself crash into someone, the early adult lifting himself upward. But, whose shoulder he knocked into was a terror to be had, for sure. Malika standing in the corner with the ever annoying Earl, Baron and two complete strangers that looked very similar to the familiar, a spark popped off in the chimera's brain. Great, just what he needed right now, the penguin family and their annoying mouths to run.


Malika giving him an angry look, the soldier's entire body shook. Can the poison just turn his entire body to stone right here, right now? He knew, any second now he was about to face her wrath whether he liked it or not. Street blocked off, an invisible white flag waved itself. There was no way to avoid her, he was done for.


Feeling a rocky shoulder brush up against her Malika turned her head. Seeing Siorc in the corner of her looking incredibly ill, a wave of rage flowed through her. It was just as that man with the dragon mask and Fatui doctor had told her. He had been gravely ill. How could he allow himself to get into this kind of shape?


"You look like death. Why are you not in bed?" Malika shouted, voice low. "Is your job more important to you than your health?" But a loud whisper had come her way.


"Malika, do you know how stupid you're being right now?" Baron asked, whispering. "You're going off script!" But, defiance soon came his way.


"I don't care!" Malika shouted. She then turned towards Siorc. "How careless can you be? Stop throwing yourself away like this!" But, even more people threw their voices into the mix.


"Malika's showing her ugly side right now!" stranger number one said.


"Indeed. Her rage makes her look hideous," stranger number two said.


Commotion kicking up, the early adult blinked. How did Malika know about the current situation. Who in the world even informed her? None of this was any of her business. But, he knew he couldn't say such a thing. Earl soon looking his way with a heavy look of concern, the hyena held back his urge to groan. Great. More annoyances were about to come his way. He didn't have time for this. He needed to move onward with his scavenger hunt.


Seeing Siorc with a sickly look on his face, Earl could feel his heart sink into his stomach. Energy dying, he held back the urge to tear up. How could he let himself get this bad? He should let him take care of him like a good wife would. But, he knew the plan. He had to leave him alone and stick with the script.


"Oh, hi, Siorc," Earl said, energy gone. "I'll leave you alone. Get better soon." Turning his back, he prepared himself to leave. But, a nagging voice kicked in once again.


"Malika, Earl, you're both going off script," Baron nagged, twirling their hair. "You're supposed to be leading him to the flowers. Stick with the--" But, they had soon been interrupted.


"You three are all so ugly today!" stranger number one said. But, the stream of voices kept on going.


"Come on, kid, I'll take you to the next flowers," stranger number two said.


Voice coming his way, the chimera turned towards the strangers. Eyeing the one on the left, the chimera could feel a wave of heat flow through him. Standing in the corner with their arms folded around their waist had been a tall feminine appearing person with long blond hair that went down to about their waist. Long golden penguin crests poking through their hair, and white Snezhnayan sweater accompanying a long orange skirt that matched their eye color, the early adult turned his attention towards stranger number two.


Standing off towards the right had been a tall feminine looking individual. Long, split blond hair that covered the person's shoulders draping over the arms a smidgeon, the early adult gazed at the person's face. Golden penguin crests that looked sparkly, the hyena backed three steps away. What was this person wearing a green shirt with a frilly white undershirt underneath and black pants, the young soldier looked into the person's bright orange eyes.


Penguins giving him gazes back, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Great, even more annoying penguins to deal with. Just how big was this family, and why couldn't he escape them? Were they in every single nation, Natlan and Inazuma included? Great. This day was going swimmingly. Party of two looking ready to speak, he kept his ears open.


"I'm Marquis" the stranger with the sweater said. As he said such, he moved on ahead.


"And I'm Esquire," stranger number two said. As he said such, he moved towards flowers. "Here are the flowers in the area."


Multiple paper flowers handed off to him, the soldier blinked. Where had he heard the name Marquis before? He swore it sounded kind of familiar. But, he knew there was no time to keep on thinking about this. He had to move onward through the city and keep going. Penguin duo encouraging him to move onward towards the southern streets, the hyena dragged himself forward.


As the early adult kept moving forward, the early adult swore he could see people running around the city as if trying to avoid him. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. Were people scared of him right now? He supposed he did not blame them if such were indeed the case.


Moving along, towards the southern street, the chimera staggered towards the fountain in the middle of the city. But, another obstacle soon awaited him. Magician standing by the fountain with the owner of Chioriya boutique, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Was there some sort of magic trick happening right now?


Flower soon appearing in his pocket, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. The magician, did he have something to do with all this? He could not help but feel he had to have something to do with the sudden appearance of closed up roses everywhere. But, he knew it had to have been a coincidence. He was jumping to conclusions, for sure.


"How did you like my trick?" the magician asked with bravado.


"That was a trick?" the owner of Chioriya boutique asked in a sarcastic tone.


Not giving the magician any sort of answer, the early adult attempted to move past him. But, a wave of dizziness soon overtook him. Swaying, the early adult swore he could feel hands catch him. Magician stating here's his second trick, catching a maiden, the soldier held back the urge to bite. Was he trying to be funny right now? It wasn't working.


Chioriya boutique owner telling him to head to Fleuve Cendre, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just how many people were in on this scavenger hunt? He could not help but feel more people were involved than they should have been. Giving the young woman a nod, the chimera trudged off towards the blacksmith, for a moment.


Dragging himself downward towards the underground city, a terrifying obstacle soon awaited him. Lengthy ladder glaring daggers at him, the soldier's knees buckles. How in the world was he supposed to climb right now? Body barely moving, the hyena let out a sigh. He supposed he would have no choice but to glide downward.


Trudging his heelless shoes off towards the edge, the chimera let himself go. Deploying his windglider, the hyena closed his eyes. Descent downward lasting minutes on end, the soldier opened his eyes as the ground neared. Staging his landing, a surprise awaited him within the underground world.


Spotting Gwendolyn, Lonan and the Demoiselle serving soup to multiple people, the early adult titled his head. Why did he have to come down here, exactly? These three looked as busy as can be. His presence here would be a hinderance, for sure. But, business soon died down quicker than a bug's lifespan. Pushing himself forward, eyes wandered off towards him.


"Black fish steak bro!" Lonan exclaimed. As he said such, he rummaged through his pockets. "Here's your flower." But, as he prepared to hand it over, he had been elbowed.


"Serve people soup, stop talking!" Gwendolyn shouted.


"Ow! Gf, you're going to make me spill some!" Lonan exclaimed. But, the commotion had been cut in half with another voice added to the force.


"Psst, young man," the Demoiselle whispered. "Come over here."


Demoiselle handing him a bowl of soup, the soldier took a sniff. He did not know why, but this bowl oddly smelled like medicine. Taking a singular sip of the soup, a sudden wave of tiredness flowed through him. Where did his energy go? But, before he could process his sudden fatigue, a new round of information had come his way.


Demoiselle informing him he has to go to the Palais Mermonia, the early adult tilted his head. He has to go where now? Why does he have to go to all these different areas? There was no way he would be able to make it there on foot now. Lonan looking his way, an offering threw itself into the mix.


"I'll fly you there, bro," Lonan said, bending his back. "Hop on." But, he had soon been elbowed once more.


"Just how stupid are you?" Gwendolyn asked, annoyed. "He's a man! I bet he's heavy!" But, as she said such, his talons swooped down.


"Nah, babe, light as a feather," Lonan responded. "Sorry, bro, hold on!"


Swooped into Lonan's big meaty talons, the chimera closed his eyes. Was this what it felt like to be carried by a stork? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. There was no such thing as storks carrying babies. That legend was made up. Hawk not breaking a sweat, the early adult let the wind lead.


As Palais Mermonia drew ever so closer, the chimera could not help but wonder. Was he heavy? He knew Lonan had said he wasn't, but he couldn't help but feel he had just been saying that to be nice. Reaching the next stop on his journey after a few more minutes, he had soon been guided towards the Chief Justice of Fontaine's office.


Iudex handing him a papery flower as well, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Just how many people were involved in this scavenger hunt? The hyena did not know, but he couldn't help but feel there had been almost too many people in on it. Just how many people did Her Majesty reach out to? This was ridiculous. Hawk ready to escort him out, one final bidding of farewells slipped past his eardrums.


"Be careful when heading to Merusea Village, young man," the Iudex warned.


Soon escorted to the Aquabus for the second time of the day, the young soldier stared off into space as the vehicle left the station. Just what in the world is going on, exactly? How many threads were left out hanging from this flower hunt? He could not help but feel the entire nation had to have been involved somehow.


Aquabus arriving in the Beryl Region before he even knew it, the early adult flinched. What was he doing, getting so lost in thought like this? Deploying his windglider, the hyena landed on the ground, knees first. Attempting to stand up, the chimera let out a grunt. But, such attempt was a corpse upon the battlefield.


Walking an impossibility, the early adult dropped his hands upon the grass. He supposed he had absolutely no choice but to crawl. Hands serving as his second pair of legs, a wave of humiliation flowed through him as he moved on. If anyone saw him in such a state, they would laugh at him and call him names, for certain.


Dragging himself along towards the north, multiple flowers awaited the hyena. Picking them out from the ground, many crumbled into nothing. Seeing such, the chimera let out a pained sigh. Who did anyone think they were fooling anymore? These plants were not real. Was this some sort of realistic paper art? Whoever did all of this had missed the mark entirely.


Heart beating hard and fast in his chest as he trudged onward, sweat soon poured down the chimera's face. Was it just him, or had the Beryl Region been much hotter than the Court of Fontaine? He had to have been mistaken, for sure. The heated pool of water was coming. Perhaps, just maybe, that was the issue at hand.


Further colorful paper plants taken out of the ground, the early adult swam through his head for a name, for a moment. What was it called when people folded paper into specific shapes again? Alphabet soup flowing through him, a name presented itself to the mix. Oragamy, oragami, origami?


But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Did it really matter what the name of the art form was called? It did not, at this moment. He needed to keep going and keep picking every single one he were to come across. He was wasting time. It was time to move on, right this instant.


Flowers in the corner looking ready to boil away, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Who in the world put those over there? What a terrible place to put flowers, real or otherwise. Jaded legs boiling as he crawled through the isles, the early adult let out a pained scream. Whoever put these here had made a grave mistake.


Crawling out of the heated waters, the early adult shook with a fervor. Had it suddenly gotten colder? The world was full of mysteries he barely understood. Dragging himself forward, he had soon been graced by two faces he did not wish to see as Merusea Village's entrance closed in.


Sea lion prankster duo poking their heads out of the water, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. What could these two possibly want from him today? Couldn't they just leave him alone just this once? But, he knew at this point that wasn't happening. They lived here, avoiding them was impossible. Duo looking ready to talk his ears off, the fourth white flag of the day had been waved.


"Bro, come here!" Eclater exclaimed. "There's flowers down here!"


"Yeah, dude!" Brume exclaimed. "Come on down!" He said such as if he were hosting some game where people listed the closest price of an object. "We'll help you get dressed!"


Sea lion prankster duo removing themselves from the water, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. These two were about to help him do what now? Removing his diving equipment, the two stared at the suit like it had grown six heads. Seeing such, the early adult let out a meek sigh. Why offer to help if they didn't even know what they were doing?


Sea lion duo eventually putting two and two together, the fat, blubbery suit had soon been over him. Group encouraging him to hop on down, the duo had been gone faster than he could blink. Knowing he had to drop himself down, the early adult dragged his feet towards the hole.


Synching his mind up with the diving suit, the hyena dropped himself downward. Suit swimming towards the bottom of the area for him, a wave of ease flowed through him. He couldn't believe he was thinking this, but having something move for him felt kind of nice, at the moment.


Suit continuing to push him downward, the early adult let the sea lead the way. Pushing forward, Merusea Village drew closer with every automated stroke. Melusine's abode reached after about half an hour, even more surprises awaited him as he pushed through the surface.


Melusines handing the hyena an entire bouquet, the early adult titled his head towards the ceiling. Why were there so many flowers down here? He couldn't help but feel someone had to have a lot of time on their hands. But, he supposed he was overthinking it. There was never enough flora in the world.


Sea denizens informing him to head off towards Poisson next, bewilderment continued to devour the chimera up. He had to head towards the Belleau Region now? Did he have to go anywhere and everywhere? Just how many of these paper flowers were there? None of this was making any sense whatsoever. This scavenger hunt, how long had it been in the works? It had to have been days, for sure.


Sea lion prankster duo guiding him back up towards the surface, the early adult lowered himself back down onto the ground. His energy was dead and gone. Walking was impossible. The only way to keep on going was to keep crawling. Getting down on all fours as if he had become the animal his dna was fused with, the humiliation within only grew deeper.


Uniform getting soaked as he moved knee deep through the oceans, the hyena shivered, then broke out into a sweat. Was he hot, or was he cold? He didn't know anymore. Everything had begun to blur together to the point of nothingness. Paper flowers everywhere the eye could see, the hyena prepared himself.


Picking every single paper mache he came across, the hyena held back the urge to rip the object apart. He knew that, if even one of these faux plants were damaged, Her Majesty would kill him, for sure. He needed to bring everything back in perfect condition, without question.


Poisson slowly getting closer, hundreds upon hundreds of faux plants had been added to the collection. Underground pirate boat city nearing with every second, the soldier prepared himself for any further annoyances to come his way. Who else was about to be in on this scavenger hunt? He could hardly contain himself with excitement.


Ladder obstacle in his way, the hyena deployed his windglider for the second time of the day. Staging his landing, the metallic floor from under him soon met with his feet. But, as he had done so, the early adult broke out into a sweat, breaths weakening even further. Was there something wrong with Poisson? World spinning around him, the early adult readied to wave the white flag. How much longer could he hold out?


Absolutely no generic nobodies around within the underground boat city, the early adult shook with a fervor. Why was the Hydro Nation of Justice so lacking with people today? Was there a big court case going on at the Opera House? Everything was too quiet. Nothing about this was normal, for sure. But, the silence soon threw itself in the garbage.


Spotting Bain and Kali stepping off the large ship in the corner, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Were these two involved in this event, as well? Just how many people were dragged into this? Too many, for sure. Girls coming towards him, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. Super Smash Sister's Ultimate; the gang's all here. Why had they involved themselves into this scavenger hunt. They barely even knew him. They said it themselves last time they were working together. Girls within three meters of him, concerned looks appeared on both their faces.


"Hello, Siorc," Bain greeted. "You don't look well today."


"I um, think?" Kali said, scratching her head. "You um, look awful."


Hearing the obvious, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Did these two think they were helping? They most certainly weren't in any possible way. They should have kept their comments to themselves. But, his thoughts were soon interrupted as Aigre had come along running. Producing weird noises with her mouth. Zooming right along like the child she was inside, a collision had soon been on course.


Heavy force rammed into him, the early adult rubbed his sides. This girl, couldn't she watch where she was going? But, he knew couldn't blame her for not seeing him. She was in her own little world at all given times. But, a loud scolding had soon stepped up to the plate to bat.


"Aigre! I thought we told you to stay inside today!" Bain scolded.


"But, Pilot Noir wanted to play outside today!" Aigre exclaimed. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Yeah, sis, get with da program!" But, she soon turned her head, gasping. "Aaah, Mauve! Sorry for being a silly little clumsy girl!" But another round of scoldings soon came her way.


"Aigre, please don't interrupt the grownups right now!" Bain scolded again. "Go play inside!"


"Okay, fine, sissie!" Aigre cried, running off.


"She's been much more defiant lately since meeting her, um, new friend," Kali said, she then turned towards Bain. "Should we?" But, Bain shook her head.


Seeing the sisters in front of him, the early adult tilted his head. Why was he here again? What was he doing here in the first place? Paper flowers handed to him, everything flowed back. Right. The scavenger hunt. How could he forget? Sea lion sisters sprinkling something down, confusion looped on repeat. Instructed to head off towards Erinnyes Forest, the soldier dragged himself out of the area.


Crawling towards the western area, the hyena huffed and puffed up a storm. Just how much longer was this scavenger hunt going to go? He did not know how much longer he could hold out. Tiredness increasing triple fold, the early adult clung on to the little energy he had left with all the might inside him that remained.


Reaching the foggy forest after hours of crawling, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was it foggy here, or was he seeing things? Raising himself to his feet, the mist only continued to worsen. Rubbing his eyes, everything blurred further. Were his glasses not working?


Dragging himself further in, a wave of suspicions had begun to flow through him as Rabiu strutted on through. Seeing him come ever so closer, fish threw themselves on the floor. This entire scavenger hunt, something was incredibly off about it. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. He needed to stop letting his mind wander off like this. Not everything and everyone was a suspect.


Seeing Siorc crawling around the forest with a face that looked like death and arms as pitch black as the nighttime sky, tears strolled down Rabiu's face. What had happened to him since the last time he had saw him? He knew what his cousin had told him, but seeing it for himself was stranger than fiction. Could he barely move? He needed to help him pick the origami flowers right away. Moving towards him, he lifted the man up, for a moment, shouldering him.


"Um, uh, sorry for touching you," Rabiu apologized. "I'll help you pick the flowers, okay?" He shook like a leaf as he said such. "And uh, then I'm taking you to the Research Institute."


Rabiu guiding him every step of the way multiple faux plants had been collected one after another. Nervous jackal attempting to place one inside his pockets, the early adult shrugged. Was he trying to perform a magic trick, too or something? He supposed, at this point, he was far too tired to care anymore.


At least hundreds of paper flowers collected for hours on end, Rabiu had begun to lead the way towards the research institute. Soon reaching the laboratory after an hour of guided walking, even more annoying faces awaited him from within the depths of abandonment.


Folu, Sani and Oluchi wearing the goofiest of grins on their faces, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Were they about to do that same old unfunny Rabiu was adopted schtick they adored repeating every time they were near him? If that's what they were about to do, they could drop it while it's hot. The joke was getting to be too much. Enough was enough.


"You brought the boy you like here again?" Folu asked, giggling. "Just marry him already!"


"Here comes groom walking down the aisle!" Sani added.


"You're adopted, so if you marry him, he won't be part of our family!" Oluchi shouted, giggling.


"Could you all be quiet, please?" Rabiu said, voice shaking. "Requin, El As, come here!" His voice continued to shake as he said such. "Scan his body for any abnormalities."


"Since when could your little toys do that?" Folu asked in a sarcastic tone.


"Quiet!" Rabiu exclaimed shaking.


"Come on, guys, leave him," Sani said, shaking his head.


Peculiar looking tiny shark shaped robots floating towards him, the early adult blinked as the metallic creatures beamed lights around his body. Did Rabiu name his machines after him? But, he perished such thought. He was giving himself far more credit than he should have. Those names could have meant something else entirely. Loud beeps overtaking the area, the soldier swore he could see the timid jackal break into tears.


"This is bad," Rabiu said, shaking. "We'd better tell ---- about this." But a triple triad scream had come his way.


"Loba!" the three siblings shouted in unison.


"Um, sorry, right, Loba," Rabiu responded, lips quivering. "Um, uh, anyway. Siorc, your next destination is Annapausis." He then turned towards Oluchi. "Um, uh, Oluchi. Could you bring him there with one of your modified gliders, please?"


"Okay, since you asked so nicely!" Oluchi said. "But, just this once!" As she said such, she grabbed the modified windglider, attaching it to the barely there thiefy. "Aren't I so cute helping you out, te hee?" Hooking him up, she pressed the button. "Okaaay, I'm going to press the button now in three, two one...zoom!"


Rocket wind glider going faster than he could keep up with, the early adult's thoughts raced a kilometer a minute. What was happening? Why was everyone involved in this affair? Wind glider speeding up as if it were about to catch on fire, it soon lowered itself towards the ocean at full speed.


Dropped into the underwater kingdom with a loud thud, the wind glider soon let go of the soldier like he was unwanted material. Frog and alligator chimera standing next to each other looking ready to cut one another's throat's, the early adult readied to cover his ears. Every single time, without fail, these two looked ready to bicker about something.


But, a peculiarity soon added itself to the mix. Vidame and Domini in human form standing around with their hands crossed around their waist, the early adult blinked. Was he seeing things, or were these two not angry? His eyes were playing tricks on him, for sure. He had to have fallen into some sort of dream, guaranteed. There was no way these two would ever get along with anyone they deemed a villain. Eyes soon turning towards him, a flower made its way into the frog and alligator's hands.


"Here you go, your flower," Peltro said. "That's what you came here for, right?"


Taking the paper flower, more had soon been handed off to the soldier. Zinn adding their's to the mix after a few minutes, the hyena stared down at the faux plant. How weren't these paper objects wet by now? Annapausis was deep underwater. Something wasn't adding up here. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted as the frog turned their head towards the penguin duo.


"Aren't ya two supposed t' say somethin' right about now?" Zinn asked the penguin duo. "Somethin' like, 'Ritchie Rich, how dare ya poison the water,' ribbit." They raised the pitch of their voice, attempting to mimic Vidame's voice.


"Wow, Zinn, wonderful impression," Peltro said, sarcastic tone of voice. But, the penguins soon tagged themselves in.


"It's not like we wanna help either of you on this mission!" Vidame shouted.


"Yeah, Ritchie Rich can die for all we care!" Domini added. But, he soon shook his head. "But, it's not satisfying to knock him down when he's in bad shape."


"Get with the toxic program, frog!" Vidame shouted at the top of her gills.


Penguin slapping something sticky on him, the early adult blinked. What did they just stick onto him? He was too tired at this point to care anymore. Whatever they had just done to him was beyond him. Hands soon on his back, he could feel himself pushed out of the area with full force.


"Bye Ritchie Rich! Get outta here! Go to Liffey now!" Domini shouted.


Pushed into an upstream, the hyena's eyes grew wide. These penguins did they just want to get rid of him so badly? Current pushing him towards the Liffey Region, the soldier's body was on fire. How much longer could this hunt possibly go on? He could feel himself begin to crack into a thousand pieces. He could hold out no longer. He was one crack away from breaking apart.


Diving suit thrusting him forward, more unwanted faces added themselves to the mix from afar. Huxian and Pixiu swimming around in otter forms, all confused, the early adult attempted to have the diving suit swim faster. But, the two soon blocked the pathway up towards the surface. As they had done so, however, they titled their round heads.


"Wait. What were we supposed to be doing again?" Huxian asked.


"Weren't we supposed to take purple up to shore?" Pixiu asked.


"Who?" Huxian asked, tilted his head. But, Pixiu soon pointed. "Him? Are you sure?"


"I think so?" Pixiu asked. "Don't remember the details." As she said such, Huxian swam forward.


"He looks purple enough," Huxian said. "You. Come on. Up you go." Flipper pressed against purple's hand, he swam upward.


Hoisted up to shore, the early adult had begun to trudge north. But, as the mountains had begun to drag on closer, the soldier's energy had reached zero. Chest as tight as handcuffs on the wrist, the early adult swore, that at any given moment, his lungs would fall out. Entire body burning, he could take no more. Feeling a switch inside him shut off, the chimera had become one with the ground. But, as the world of unconsciousness had readied to take him away, a realization had kicked in.


This was all a setup, wasn't it?


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult soldier life. The cycle was never ending, never stopping once it landed back at the beginning of the board game. The game was ongoing, forever, with the chance of death being the stopping point at virtually zero. The dream before him was just like the rest.


Before him had been a field of lycoris radiata once again. But, the flowers had not been alone. In the center of the bed had been a monster. The monster had been a girl with a skull face instead of that of a human. Seeing such a visitor, the hyena's dream heart skipped more than twenty five beats. Was this it? Was he in his final hours of life?


"Mister, play with me!" the skeleton girl exclaimed, dragging the hyena towards the flowerbed. "Come on!"


Dragged into the field of spider lilies, the early adult could feel will leave his dream body. This was it. He was done for, through, curtains. These were the final hours left. Was this how it was going to end, in his sleep? He wasn't ready, if so. But, his dream thoughts were soon cut off as the skeletal being dropped him downward towards the flowers.


"Okay, mister, ready?" the skeleton girl asked excitably. "We're playing six feet under!"


Rotten hands coming from underneath the flowerbed, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the dream battlefield. This was it. Game over. He was about to be dragged six feet under, any second now. Pushed through the ground and becoming water to the soil, the early adult aired out his final thoughts within the land of the subconscious.


So long, farewell.


***


"Guess this is it. My end.
Obviously, this is my fault.
Obviously, I am to blame.
Don't ever
Be as stubborn as me.
Yes, this is all my fault. All of this is my fault for pressing on.
Everything hurts. Am I waking up?


Seems like that was all a dream after all.
Oh, Archons where am I?


Looks like the Fortress.
Oh, Archons. No.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. Why here?
Get me out of here, please!"


Coming to in the Fortress of Meropide infirmary, multiple objects had been attached to the soldier. Meropide nurse in the corner of the room, the early adult turned his head a smidgeon. Loba in the corner, as well, and a strange green haired doctor with a snake around his neck, the realization soon kicked in further.


The underground prison, someone had taken him to the Fortress of Meropide. Realization solidifying into place, tears streamed down the early adult's face as terrifying machines kept on beeping. Had he been arrested? He was in trouble now. This was it. It was over. He had definitely disappointed Her Majesty beyond repair. Loba soon running towards him, questions threw themselves his way.


"Siorc, what's the matter?" Loba asked. "Where does it hurt?"


Question coming his way, the early adult attempted with all his might to ask if he had been arrested. But, no such answer came. Words unable to flow out, the soldier tried with all his might to move his hands in front of him. But, such did not happen, either. Palms remaining completely still, the tears strolled down his face faster. Why couldn't he move his hands? What was happening? Only the first letter of arrested able to drag itself out, the waterworks kept going.


"You're not arrested, honey," Loba responded. "I'm sorry for bringing you to the prison infirmary, but there were no other facilities I could have taken you to." As she said such, tears soon streamed down her face. "We found lethal poison inside your organs and bloodstream." The tears kept on going as she continued. "And, if we don't act soon, you're going to die." But, her sob fest had soon been halted.


"Miss Loba, it's not professional to cry in front of the patient!" the Melusine nurse exclaimed.


"I know, I'm sorry," Loba responded, wiping her tears away. But, another voice soon tagged itself into the ring.


"Miss Loba found a high concentration of toxic Noctilucous Jade flowing inside you," the snake doctor explained. "I'm afraid the poisons have reached a point where it has entered into your vitals." There was a serious tone in his voice. "We will need to perform an intense surgery to remove it. And, unfortunately, there is a moderate chance it might not succeed.


Hearing the snake doctor's words, a heavy wave of shock flowed through him. He had to get surgery that had the possibility of killing him? Was this how it was going to end? No. There was no way it could end this way. But, he supposed this was his fault. He kept pushing onward, insisting it was a curse. He was to blame for allowing it to reach this point. But, the tears still fell anyway. He could reach the end of his mortality. Letting out a weak grunt, the waterworks kept going.


"Honey, I know you're scared, but we promise you, it'll be alright," Loba said in a low voice. "We will all try our best to make sure you survive this." She grabbed ahold of her patients hands, not letting go. "But, there's a chance the poison rewired your system to make you unable to function without its presence."


Hearing such fact, the hyena's heart skipped more than four beats. The toxic Noctilcous Jade could have changed the foundations of his insides? This was it, there was no way. It was over. He would have to bid this world farewell, soon, for sure. And he knew all of this was his fault. Everything that had lead up to this outcome was his fault.


"The surgery will be in a few hours," Loba said, tears streaming down her face. As she said such, a mask had been placed over the hyena's face. "Honey, I'm sorry, but we need to put you to sleep as preparation." Equipment locked into place, she attempted to keep herself together. "Sweet dreams."


Feeling gas pumping into him, a sudden wave of tiredness he had never experienced for took the soldier away. World around him beginning to fade away, the chimera's eyes fluttered closed. Drug induced world ready to take him away at a moment's notice, one final thought laid a crack upon the foundation.


Would this be the last thing he would ever see?


***


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of anguish within the chimera's diplomatic Fatui life. The pattern would add three more beads every night, spelling out the word doom on constant repeat with each waking day passing. But, something in the land of the subconscious had been incredibly amiss.


Before him had been a long winding field of chrysanthemums stretching outwards towards the sky. Seeing such flowers, a question arose within the chimera's mind. Was this it? Had he reached the end of the journey? Moving forward, the hyena stared at the land around him.


As the chimera moved through the flower fields, he did not know why, but he could feel himself at peace. If this was how it was all going to end, he didn't mind if it were in a flowerbed. Such end was a fitting one, he supposed. But, as he kept walking through, the soldier saw two faces he thought he would never see again.


Mother and father standing on the edge of the world near a large, dark portal, the early adult blinked. His parents, what were they doing here? Why were they guarding the large black vortex? Wasn't that where he was supposed to be heading next? Attempting to press on, the early adult swore he could see invisible caution tape drop itself downward.


"Son, it's not your time yet," his father said. "Turn back."


Father soon holding a sword beside the large black portal, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Turn back? What did he mean? Wasn't he supposed to go through that door? He did not quite understand. Wasn't blocking his entrance against the rules? Wouldn't the God of Time come and bring down a harsh punishment for this? Sense was dead, and he was making none of it. Words bleeding inside him, a question blurted out.


"Will I make Istaroth angry?" the hyena blurted out.


Warm looks on his parents faces, confusion continued to eat the soldier alive. Why were they smiling? Did he say something funny? Hadn't his father researched the gods while he was alive? If he had said the name of the wrong god, he would need to apologize to them right away.


"No, son," his father said. "She won't be angry with you."


Hearing such, confusion continued to loom through the chimera. Mother now holding a sword and blocking the black portal as well, the inquires kept going. The vortex, was it really, truly alright to keep him away from it? Had it really, truly not been his time yet? What did that mean? Wasn't this breaking all the rules?


"They're calling for you, Siorc," his mother said. "You must turn around."


Mother telling him to turn around, as well, the soldier did as instructed. There was no way he could disobey his parents, even if it was only their spirits here with him. Right, he had to go back. It wasn't his time to go yet. He had to return. Bright white door soon appearing, the chimera turned the knob. Stepping in, one final thought threw itself out into the mix.


Here he goes.


Back into the cruel reality.


***


"We have begun to prep for the surgery,
Everyone is ready.


All the tools are beside us.
Right, we're going in. It is time to remove the poison.
Everything is down. We


Lead the suture downward. So far, so good.
Onward towards the problem, I feel
Sweat as I carefully operate.
It's all going well.
Now, to tackle the source of the noxious problem. We all
Go towards the route of the problem...


Huh? Heart rate going down.
It's hovering towards zero.
My hands shake.


'We're losing him!' I shout.
Everything is dropping. No, I


Cannot let this happen. I
Absolutely cannot afford to lose him.
No, no. I told Siorc we would make sure he would survive.
No, I absolutely cannot go back
On my world. I can't let
This happen. I can't


Let him die.
Everyone is counting on to make sure
The patient lives. I take a deep breath. We


Try again. We press on carefully.
Heart rate going up.
It's working. The poison, it hasn't
Seeped itself in. We keep


Hammering on.
And try our best to not make any fatal mistakes. We
Press on, sweating. We
Press on, working intensively.
Everything will soon be fine.
Now, for the final touches."


Coming to in a completely different room from the last one, the early adult turned his head towards the left and right. Where was he now? Had he been taken somewhere else within the Fortress of Meropide? Feeling a heavy, warm blanket over him, he weakly shook his head. No, that couldn't be it. The prison beds were cold, hard spring boxes. But, two blond haired visitors soon gave an answer to such question.


Marquis and Esquire strolling on in, the early adult held back the urge to groan. He had been taken to the apartment underneath the Congele boutique? How did he get here? But he supposed how, and when didn't matter. Anything was better than lying down in a cold, hard prison or military barrack bed.


"Looks like the little rascal is awake," Marquis said. "The doctors told us all that you're on strict bed rest." As they said such, they folded their arms across their waist. "We've heard you're a stubborn one. Don't be a rascal. Got it?"


"Don't give Malika any problems," Esquire said, arms around their waist. "We're going to call the doctor in. And just so you know, we have our eyes on you." As they said such, they cupped their hands around their lips. "Loba, he has woke up. You can come in now." As they said such, another chimera entered the battlefield.


"Thank you, brothers," Loba said to Marquis and Esquire. She then headed towards Siorc's bedside. "The surgery went well, honey." But, as she said such, tears strolled down her face. "But, we almost lost you. The poison had rooted itself deep inside your organs, as we all surmised." There was a heavy sense of tiredness in her voice as she continued. "We were able to remove it. The toxins won't be able to spread any more."


Hearing such, the early adult blinked. The chrysanthemum world, if he were to go through that door at the end, would that have been it? He supposed he was grateful he had not lost the battle, but he knew he couldn't just sit here, lying like a vegetable. He was alright now, wasn't he? Surely, he could return to work.


Look of desperation on the patient's face, Loba shook her head. She knew what that look meant, he wanted to go back to work immediately. Siorc's worth ethnic was far too strong for his own good sometimes. She needed to let the patient know he wasn't allowed to go back to work just yet.


"I know what you're thinking, honey," Loba said, shaking her head. "But, I cannot allow you to go back to work yet." She grabbed the patient's hand, holding it gently. "While the poison won't spread any further, your condition is far from stable yet." She took a long deep breath. The healing process might take awhile. And, there's a possibility you could relapse." She squeezed the hand a little tighter, not letting go. "Once you're deemed stable enough, we'll prescribe you with medication to aid with the healing process. But, until then, you must stay in bed and rest."


Loba telling him he wasn't stable, the soldier could not help but wonder. The poison had it truly been removed? Hand soon let go of, the hyena attempted to move his hands in front of him. But, such movement never came. Unable to move his palms even a centimeter, tears streamed down his face. His palms, why couldn't he move them still? Why were they stuck?


Seeing the patient cry, Loba tried to hold herself back from shedding tears, as well. Had Siorc been trying to sign something to her? Not being able to communicate in his preferred way must have been hard for him to handle. Was he worried about whether the poison had truly been removed? She needed to assure him it had been.


"I promise you, honey, we did our best to make sure the poison had been removed," Loba reassured him. "But, you could still have a relapse. It had worked its way deep into your lungs, stomach and esophagus. It might take some time for them to heal completely." Crossing her arms across her waist, she readied to let down a final warning. "So, until further notice, I am putting you on strict bed rest."


Knowing there was no way this ordered would be rescinded, the chimera sighed. Loba soon leaving, the early adult sat down in the bed, tossing and turning with all his might. He was going to be here for awhile, wasn't he? Eventually feeling fatigued after hours of laying, the hyena closed his eyes. Sleep ready to take him once again, one thought wrapped vines around him.


Let his days of being a vegetable begin.


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's life. The pattern was a circle, constantly rotating over and over again. The circle would only get faster, and faster as the moments went on by, reaching its peak at the stroke of midnight. The night before him would continue the anguish, as well.


Before him had been a field of wolfbanes. Seeing such flowers, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had his dreams been poisoned, too? The soldier did not know, but he supposed a part of his brain had been infected, as well. Attempting to move away from the fields, the chimera turned his back. Such action was cancelled before it could even begin. Strange person adorning a bright white robe and grotesque muscly hands soon popped out of nowhere, giggling.


"Eat them!" the figure exclaimed.


Order demanded of him, the chimera rapidly shook his head. Eat them? Weren't wolfbanes a poisonous flower? There was no way. He couldn't eat them. Wouldn't he be as good as dead if he had done so? Shaking his head again, the flowers had soon been ripped out from the ground.


Person shoving the flowers down his throat, the early adult broke into tears. Plant travelling down the dream esophagus, the tears kept going. But as they kept on streaming, fire broke from his cheeks. Everything burning away, the hyena closed the dream eyes. Bidding farewell to the subconscious world, one last thought threw itself into the water.


Don't make him eat what he adores the most.


***


Waking up in the middle of the night, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. What is he doing here? Why is in the apartment underneath the Congele Boutique? He shouldn't be here, he needed to leave. Reaching for his glasses, the early adult studied the room around him. Spotting a window in the corner, the hyena dragged himself out of bed.


Opening the pane, the early adult attempted to make a jump for it. But, such action was halted before it could even begin. Marquis speeding into the room, he dashed towards the window, in a heartbeat. Opening his mouth, shouts had begun to enter the room for the entire apartment to hear.


"What are you trying to do?!" Marquis asked, voice raising.


Attempting with all his might to ask why he was here, no words were able to release from him. Throat burning, the early adult waved the white flag. He didn't need to talk, anyway. His throat could stay burning for all eternity. Knowing he could not stay here, he continued onward. Attempting to remove the screen from the door, the chimera placed his fingers on it. But, he had soon been grabbed ahold of.


"You're supposed to be on bed rest, remember?" Marquis reminded him, carrying the ugly stubborn fool back to bed. "Don't be ugly." Hideous fool placed back under the covers, he gave the ugly man a glare. "If you're in pain, you have to let us know. Got it? Now, go back to sleep."


Marquis soon leaving, the early adult closed his eyes. Right, he was a prisoner to the bed. He wasn't allowed to leave, under any circumstance. Heavy wave of fatigue overtaking him almost immediately, the soldier closer his eyes. Wave of sleep inviting him back in, the land of tormenting dreams took him hostage.


Waking up sometime unknown to him, the soldier swore he could hear something being hammered down. Eyes jolting open, the hyena reached for his glasses. Esquire in the corner mounting wood onto the window, the chimera tilted his head. Why was he doing that?


"Go back to sleep," Esquire said, hammering harder.


Ordered to go back to sleep, the soldier could not help but continue to wonder. Why was he boarding up the window, was there a storm coming? Throat burning, the chimera made a ton of noises. Penguin ceasing operations, he let out a sigh. Hearing such, the hyena could not help but feel a wave of discomfort. Had he annoyed him? He needed to apologize. Making further noises, everything boiled over.


"Don't worry about it, ugly," Esquire said, with emphasis on the last word. "Go back to sleep."


Hearing such word, the early adult lowered his eyes into a glare. Did this man just call him ugly? How dare he. He knew he did not look his best right now, but was such insult necessary? He didn't need to take this from him. Who did he think he was, saying something like that to him?


But, the soldier could feel his energy fade away. It was no use trying to argue with him. He was far too tired to even bother. Closing his eyes once more, the hyena could feel himself about ready to drift off once more. World of sleep ready to take him away, the soldier let out one final sigh as the dream world invited him back in.


He wasn't ugly.


***


Dreaming continued to be a never ending saga of agony for the hyena. The cycle was an agonizing board game, with no positive moves to drop onto. The story was incomplete, always getting further page counts as each and every single night kept pushing forward. The night before him was no different as well.


Before him had been a field of lilies. But, the flowers had some company. Young skull faced woman sitting beside them, she had soon begin to giggle as if one and zeroes had broken, leading to her laugher causing the outside force to be booted out of the situation.


"Eat them!" the skull girl exclaimed.


Skull girl bunching up the flowers into her bony hands, the chimera backed twenty steps away. Eat lilies, no way. There was absolutely no way he would munch down on any sort of flower, poisonous or not. This girl, why was she so dead set on making him eat them? But, as he though such, the lilies had dropped down his throat. Simulated sense of metal taking his dream throat away, tears strolled down the soldier's face.


Stop making him eat flowers.


***


Waking up archons knows when, Malika, Baron and Aega stood inside the room, exit door blocked as if they had been a bouncer at a party. Seeing such, the soldier blinked. Why were they so protective over the door? He knew, if he tried to escape, he would just be caught anyway. Aega coming towards him, a stern look had been on her face.


"Don't bother trying to escape," Aega said bluntly. "Malika and Baron will catch you if you try." Heart instrument soon upon her, she moved over towards the patient. "I'm here to check your vitals. So, don't cause any trouble."


Covers lifted off of him, cold, sterile medical tools invaded him like he was unclaimed territory. Aega instructing him to breathe in and out, a wave of heavy pain flowed through him as he had done so. Freezing tool moving towards his back, the exercise repeated itself further.


"You are in no condition to return to Snezhnaya yet," Aega said sternly. "So, do as you're told, and stay in bed." Pulling the covers back over him, she gave him a sharp glare. "Don't give anyone in here a hard time. We'll be putting you on the medication soon, alright? Once you're on it, you can go back home." She crossed her arms across her waist as she said such. "Behave yourself until then, or I'll have Malika tie you to that bed."


Threat coming his way, the soldier surrendered. There was no winning against Aega. Whatever she were to say goes. Malika walking towards his bed side, the hyena held back the urge to groan. Was she going rub salt in further to his current wound? He had had enough blows for whatever day it was.


"Please just bare with this a little longer, darling," Malika said in a gentle tone. "Just listen to the doctors. And, don't try to escape again."


Malika doubling down on his disallowing of his escape, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Earl nowhere to be seen, the early adult could not help but wonder. Where was that pesky thorn in his side? The apartment was oddly quiet without him. Had he been holding the fort upstairs? He knew he had to ask about it.


"Where's Earl?" Siorc asked, voice tired.


Hearing Siorc's stupid question, Baron rolled their eyes. Did he seriously just ask that? Hadn't Siorc despised Earl? Why did he care all of a sudden that he wasn't here? What was even the point of this question? Shouldn't he be more concerned about his current situation? What a waste of his intelligence.


"We sent Earl and Kaiser away to the Opera Epiclese for the remainder of your time here," Baron responded. "I do not know why this matters to you. Do you not despise my brother?"


Baron twirling their hair, the early adult blinked. They sent Earl away? Did they really have to go to such a length to ensure he could rest peacefully. While he found the penguin annoying, despise was quite the strong word. He could never think such a thing about him, even if he were the biggest pest of all time.


"Okay, Baron, enough about that," Malika said to Baron. She then turned towards Siorc. "Can you eat?"


Throat feeling sharp and rocky, the chimera shook his head. If he were to try to eat anything right about now, Malika's floor would become disgusting, in an instant. Penguin family stepping out, or a moment, a small bowl of broth with very few vegetables had been in it. Sipping the heated water, pain ate the hyena alive. It was still impossible to eat anything, even after he had been healed? The world was cruel. Wave of tiredness overtaking him after an hour, the early adult closed his eyes once more.


Waking up once again, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. How long had he been asleep this time? He did not know, but he couldn't help but think it had to have been a few days. How many yesterdays had gone by? The calendar on the wall in the corner had certainly jumped a few numbers.


Laying in bed for awhile, the soldier had come to immediately notice. The heat within him, it had been gone. His stomach, it no longer ached. His breaths hurt less than before. Was he dreaming? Pinching himself, he could feel a shock. He was most certainly awake, right now. Hearing some footsteps, two people soon came into the room.


Lonan and Rabiu coming through the door, the chimera tilted his head. What were these two doing here? Didn't the hawk have jobs to do with Gwendolyn? Wouldn't she be mad at him if he weren't there to do them? Nervous jackal coming forward with sharp shaped mini robots, confusion continued to loop on repeat. Was this some kind of health checkup? Why had the inventor brought someone with him.


"Sup, black fish steak bro," Lonan greeted. "We came here to keep you company."


Rabiu's robots moving towards him, the hyena moved the covers off of him. Tiny shark machines beaming lasers all over him, the early adult closed his eyes. What in the world was this technology? What kind of signals were the lasers going to send back to their owner? But, he knew that was not something for him to find out.


"Um, uh, your vitals are looking pretty good today," Rabiu said, voice shaking. "But, um, uh, I'll have to ask Loba about it before anyone can make a decision on this."


Hearing such, the chimera could not help but wonder. What happened to him while he was asleep? Just how long had he been out? Had the stone around his body disappeared? Staring at his hands, nothing had changed. Limbs still pitch black entirely, a wave of disappointment flowed through him. Why hadn't the jade cracked away yet? Wasn't he beginning to heal? But, he supposed it was a process that was not yet ready to reach that critical stage. But, as he kept on thinking, Lonan soon flowed on through.


"Isn't that great, black fish steak bro, Robby said you're doing better!" Lonan said, smiling.


"Um, uh, please don't call me Robby," Rabiu said, lip quivering.


"Oops, sorry, bro, forgot you don't like being called that," Lonan responded. He then turned towards black fish steak bro. "You must be bored sitting in bed all day. Wanna play a game? I brought some with me."


Lonan bringing out multiple board games. The soldier studied them, for a moment. First one entitled Elemental Crucible, the chimera tilted his head. What was that one about? Would he have to use his Vision on the table to move forward? Was that one even fair? Neither Raibu nor he had visions at their disposal. He knew he could not say yes to that one.


"Not Elemental Crucible?" Lonan asked. "Alright, bro. What about this one?"


Game board held out in front of him entitled Windtrace, the chimera blinked of bewilderment once again. What was this one about? Lonan offering him the manual, the early adult skimmed through it. A hide and seek board game where the players hid the pieces on a big map and the person designated the hunter would go look for them? That sounded quite tiresome and too easy to be seen through. Shaking his head, the next board game had been brought to the table.


"You don't wanna do Windtrace, either?" Lonan asked. "You're a tough sell."


"Uh, um, Lonan?" Rabiu asked. "Why are you saying that?"


"Just somethin' pops used to tell me when I wouldn't eat my veggies," Lonan said to Rabiu. He then took out another board. "How 'bout this one?"


Board game entitled, Moraoply, the soldier stared down at the piece of cardboard in front of him. Multiple spaces in front of him printed with number values and prizes, the chimera shrugged. He supposed this one would do. He knew if he kept on rejecting further ones, he would be wasting Lonan's time. Giving the bird man a nod, dice and board pieces had been taken out.


"Cool beans," Lonan responded. "Which piece do you wanna be?"


Tiny metallic game pieces presented to him, the early adult studied everything presented to him. Spotting a horse carriage, Slime, Ruin Grader, Hilichurl, dog, cat, rabbit, and flowerpot piece, the early adult's heart fluttered. He could play as a flower if he wanted to? This was the one. He needed to be that piece. Pointing at it, he made a small noise.


"Flowerpot? Alright, bro, here you go," Lonan said. "Guess I'll be the Slime." He then turned towards Rabiu. "And you?"


"I'll be the dog," Rabiu said, pointing at the dog piece.


Three pieces placed on the start square, the soldier had been given the first dice toss. Placing the knockers into the cup, the soldier dropped the two upon the board. Two sixes laid out in front of him, the early adult blinked. Was this real. Was he really allowed to move twelve spaces? This had to have been some sort of mistake.


Dragging his piece for twelve spaces, the hyena took a small card. Card reading there had been a bank error in his favor, collect one thousand Mora, Rabiu handed the chimera a fake gold coin printed with the number one thousand upon it. Placing the coin aside, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. What a very interesting game this was.


Lonan taking his turn next, he closed his eyes as he rolled the dice. Pieces dropping down on the board, a five graced everyone. Slime moving upon the board, a space entitled, property space had been landed on. Property card taken, the bird man read the card aloud.


"Hotel owner would like to transfer ownership to you. Will you buy it for five-hundred?" Lonan read out loud. "Rab, gimme the little housey over there." Rabiu handing over the house, the fake mora coins had been given in exchange. "Heh heh, this space is my property now. Better watch out."


Rabiu taking his turn next, the dice dropped down upon the board. Ten rolled, he moved the dog piece upon the cardboard. Informed he would need to take a chance card, he read the words on the paper thoroughly. But, as he had done so, a look of pain graced his face.


"You robbed the Northland Bank, go directly to jail," Rabiu said, voice shaking. "Um, uh, I would never do that, just so you know."


Rabiu's game piece sitting in the jail spot, the soldier flinched. There was a jail in this game? He could not help but feel that was a bit too realistic for a fantasy world on paper. He knew he would have to be careful with his rolls going forward. Eyes soon on him, he knew it was his turn to shake up the dice.


Placing the dice back into the cup, the early adult shook the holder, for about fifteen seconds. Dropping the objects upon the board, the numbers counted out to be around seven. Moving the flowerpot upon the board, a property piece had soon been landed on.


Reading the card he had been given, the hyena tilted his head. Buy a house in Springvale for three hundred, why so little? Just what were these games rules? But, he knew he had to buy it. Moraopoly, the rules of the game were to buy as many properties as possible to win as much Mora as he could. He knew he couldn't resist the urge. Nodding, a house piece had been handed off to him.


Game going on for hours on end, a wave of calmness flowed through him. Was this what it felt like to be at peace? Moraopoly eventually ending with a Lonan turn around, the party of two soon exited his temporary room. Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the chimera closed his eyes. World of dreams pulling him back in, a smile graced his face as the land of sleep claimed him for the night.


Waking up sometime unknown, the chimera blinked. How many days had he been asleep this time? He supposed it didn't matter. Loba soon coming into the room fully equipped with medical instruments, a full examination had soon taken shape. Cold, hard devices pressed onto him, everything soon ended with a smile.


"It is now safe enough for you to go on the medication," Loba said, tone soft. As she said such, a pill bottle had been removed from her pocket. "You may return to Snezhnaya now."


Hearing such, the chimera removed himself from the bed. He can go back to Snezhnaya now? Was work resuming? It was back to the permafrost north, back to work, back to being a pawn upon the chessboard. But, as he thought such, another set of words had come his way.


"No, honey, you can't go back to work just yet," Loba said, shaking her head. "While you are no longer in danger, you're still recovering." As she said such, she pointed at the pill bottle handed off to him. "You must take one of these capsules a day. And, you will be monitored while on this medicine. There could be side effects. But, the jade covering your body should slowly disappear once you have started taking it." She gave the patient a sharp glare. "When you're completely stable, I promise you, you can return to work."


Bowing a thank you, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Waving one last farewell to the penguin family, the early adult opened the orb into map form. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes. Cruising through the icy cold hallways, the early adult reached the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking. Placing himself on the frozen floor, the soldier stared off into space for hours on end.


Wave of tiredness taking him away as night soon dropped, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpin and earrings. Uniform soon removed, the chimera slipped into the uncomfortable bed. He did not miss this rock hard sleeping quarters, even for a moment. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


He would soon be jade free.

 

[Palamon]

26. Chenyu Vale Rumblings 1: Forced Recovery Excursion.

"An excursion?
Now, I just don't get this,


Exactly? I am no longer cursed. The
Xeno object has been removed.
Can't I just go back to work?
Unless there's still more in me.
Really, I don't know,
So I guess
I am stuck doing this excursion.
Obviously, I am rather
Not interested in any capacity.


Though, I suppose I
Owe Loba and the other doctors for saving me, so it's


Best I listen to any and
Every suggestion thrown at me.


However, I am just not sure why. An
Open walk around Chenyu Vale? I have
Never been here.
Everything seems like
Some sort of ploy
To gather information from me.


Though, that's just what it is, and
How it's always been.
I'm used to being used as a pawn.
So, this excursion is nothing more than a


Cheap ploy to get information from me.
Oh, Your Majesty, do you
Not ever learn? Eh,
For now, I have no choice but to take this break.
Ultimately, I must listen,
So don't disobey,
Even if I don't agree or
See the point, I


Must remain loyal, that is key.
Even so, I was asked


Something rather unusual. The Agent,
He told me to go find someone to go with
On this excursion.
Uh, am I hearing things?
Looks like I am not. I
Do not quite understand.


I have to take a person with me?


Nothing makes sense.
Of all times, you want me
To take someone on a mission with me now? I don't


Get it. This feels rather fishy.
Or, perhaps I am overthinking.


Be that as it may,
A person to go with. I
Can only think of one person. I do not
Know if he will go with me,


Though, it will not hurt to ask.
Of course, being told no is a high possibility.


Well, lives are not an
Open door. I am
Rather quite aware of this by now. But,
Knowing Her Majesty


If I go alone,


A punishment will be waiting for
Me for disobedience.


No, I am definitely, without a doubt,
Overthinking. But, I will


Look for the panda chimera.
Obviously, there is a chance of being told
No, negatory. I
Guess I need to
Expect such outcome. It is
Relatively low, but I


Cannot rule it out.
Unleash myself upon Liyue,
Round the positive and negatives down to one.
So, off I go on this
Excursion. This
Dropped in on me vacation.


It's unavoidable that I have
To recover, I suppose.


I do not know long this
Should take, but


Whatever was said,
Has to go. I
Am the silent, obedient soldier.
That's how


It should be.
This is merely a quick reprieve.


I know I will be back to work
Shortly. For now,


The mountains await me. I do not know
How many, but this is Liyue.
One of the northern places
Upper Vale is where I am headed, I'm
Guessing.
How far north? I don't know,


Though I believe it borders Fontaine.
Of course, I will not be going there.


Cannot see my excursion
Hiking me towards that area.
Everything will be
Nowhere but the never
Yielding mountains. The
Ultimate peak, the


Valleys aplenty.
All and all, I am ready.
Let's go, onto the
Excursion. Will Yínlóng join me?


I hope so, but there's no


Guarantee. I'll
Open the invitation silently."


Four days had passed since the soldier had performed various different empty activities around Sumeru that were next to nothing in value. Curse continuing to spread its plague upon him further, the hyena kept on working, despite protest from various parties otherwise.


Tasked with an odd job in Inazuma, an influx of maple leaves and yokai were dealt with one after another. But, haze had begun to eat his memory as the days went on further. Scavenger hunt overtaking the third day, interventions had cancelled everything out without a moment's notice.


Intervention deleting work from the occasion, days had begun to blur together. Hours missing from his memory, layers of confusion sliced themselves up like pieces of cake about to melt out in the sun. But, despite such blurs, the hyena remained a silent, loyal soldier.


The sound of morning alarm bells blared out their loud sirens five times as loud as they normally had done so. As the alarm bells kept going with their piercing sound of doom, countless Fatui Soldiers groaned in a chorus louder than everything anyone has ever heard before. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Heavy wave of fatigue looming over him, the hyena rubbed his eyes, for a moment. Such trick not working, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why was he feeling so tired today? Hadn't the source of the poison within him been removed? But, as he thought such, memories flowed back to him.


Recalling the jackal chimera had told him healing might take awhile, the hyena let out a sigh. He supposed, he would have light work for the next while. Knowing such would be the case, without a doubt, the early adult rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the soldier's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the soldier gazed at his hands and arms. Both still as black and full of Noctilucous Jade bits, the chimera could not help but ponder. Just how long will it take for everything to return to normal and reverse back to way it used to be?


Taking a moment, the early adult peeked at the other affected areas. Legs still pitch black, as well, the hyena lifted the layers upon his middle body. Stomach stone chipping away a smidgeon, a wave of hope flowed through him. Perhaps, just maybe, soon, everything would crumble off of him.


Taking a deep breath, the chimera resumed getting ready. It was pointless worrying about such a thing. The multiple doctors who had seen him told him it would take some time. Throwing his thoughts away, the chimera snapped the buttons on his uniform shut. No more time for thinking. Time was running out.


Buttons in the correct holes, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Matching black hearts adorning his hair and ears, the hyena stared at the other weapons lying in the jewelry and accessory box. Turning his prized possessions into weapons, was this truly what he wanted? Regret flowed through the soldier. It had already been too late to reverse such decision.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the early adult stared at the Geo Delusion adjacent to it. The sinister orb, should he return it to Her Majesty? But, the hyena shook his head. There was no need to return her gift. One day, when the time was right, he would make use of it, guaranteed.


Heelless shoes on, and rations in front of him, the hyena bit down into the gruel. Food still tasting like jade, but much less so, tears strolled down the chimera's face. Recovery was going to be a long battle ahead of him, without a doubt. Glasses adjusted, white capsules swallowed, and everything soon in order, the chimera had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


The louder than ever before sound of Fatui boots marched onward inexorably, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his day of absolutely anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be going on a recovery excursion in Chenyu Vale." A mysterious red envelope had soon appeared in his gloved hands. "Here is your holiday bonus. Take someone with you on your trip." Turning towards him, the masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "It will last three days."


The early adult tilted his head towards the ceiling. He was doing what now? Going on a recovery excursion in Chenyu Vale? Why was this his order for the day? This sudden vacation, why was he being awarded such? Shouldn't be he going back to work today? The poison had left him.


The early adult stared downward at the red envelope gifted to him. This mora out of nowhere, did he really deserve such a thing? He had failed to perform his jobs well over the past couple of weeks. This money, there had to have been some sort of catch to it, for sure.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc, are you alright?" the Agent asked in a worried and oddly gentle tone. "You definitely need this recovery excursion."


Siorc flinched. Does he really need this recovery excursion? He supposed he couldn't argue with whatever facts were being laid out to him. It was only a three day trip. After all this, surely, work would resume as it normally did. Placing his arm out in front of him, the early adult took a deep breath.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Fully recovered or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.


"Good. Let's get going, soldier," the Agent responded. "We will be heading to Liyue Harbor first." Arm out in front of him, he gripped the limb into a softer squeeze than normal. "We have hired a bodyguard to protect you and the guest you bring with you." Escort starting, one last bidding of words leaked out. "Try to relax and not to push yourself." Teleportation about to begin, the chimera's mind wandered, for a moment. It was strange to see the Agent act like this. But, as he thought such, another thought kicked in.


He will invite the panda chimera to the excursion.


***


"Well, to be quite
Honest, I am still rather confused. I do not
Yet understand the purpose this mission. An excursion through


Chenyu Vale. Is this really necessary?
How will this help me recover?
Everything about this is stumping me. I do
Not understand anything.
Your Majesty, is this just another ploy you are
Unleashing upon me? That


Very much so could be the case.
Ah, I see, disguising a mission as a holiday.
Looks like I am onto something. Ah, no I am
Exaggerating. There is no way


That could even be remotely close to it.
How could I jump to such a conclusion?
Obviously, she would not to something like that.
Unless that is her plan, in the end.
Guess that is something I really should expect.
Her Majesty always wants me to go everywhere. I bet even


Over to the moon, if she wanted me to.
For that is uncharted territory,


Ah, who am I kidding? No way would she send to the
Lunar plane. No way would she ask me to
Leave this place.


Perhaps my imagination has gotten a
Little too colorful since the poisoning incident.
Ah, yes, I am overthinking.
Come on, Siorc, stop overthinking.
Everything is on pause,
So stop overthinking.


Don't let my thoughts wander.
Or they will
Eat me up,
Swallow me whole.


I need to stop assuming
That everything is part of


Her Majesty's plans.
A vacation is a
Vacation, no matter how small.
Even though I did not expect it and


Hadn't seen it coming, I suppose I have
Earned a moment of reprieve.
Ah, Yínlóng, will he want to go with me?
Little do I know, he could be working.
I do not know what I can do if I cannot go with him.
No other person in Liyue comes to me. I do not know many other Liyuean chimeras who would
Go. So, it is best I stick to the


Chase and only
Ask those of which I am familiar.
Perhaps, that is for the best.
As I would rather not task a nobody.
Be that as it may,
I suppose, having
Little options of people to choose from
Is a good thing.
There is not a long list of people
I will need to ask.
Everything is ready,
So off to the beaches I go."


Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the teleport waypoint, a reminder had come the soldier's way. Told he will be receiving checkups from medical staff periodically throughout the excursion, the Agent soon staged his leave. Given such order, the soldier off duty shook his head. Did he really need to be monitored in such a way still? Surely, there was no chance whatsoever of any sort of relapse.


Knowing it was best to head for Yaoguang Shoal right away, the early adult had begun heading upon the northern pathway. City incredibly quiet without the usual levels of hustle and bustle, the hyena tilted his head as he kept walking. Why was it so dead today? Had he arrived at the point in time where the city was asleep?


As the hyena kept moving forward, the soldier off duty could not help but ponder. The panda chimera, would he even want to go with him on this excursion? He knew there was a possibility at hand that he would not wish to go and would reject his proposal entirely with the two letter word of doom.


Continuing along the path, the hyena stared off into space. The panda chimera, if he did not wish to go with him, who could he possibly invite? But, the hyena shook his head. Why would Yínlóng reject his offer? Surely, such outcome would not even be within the realm of any sort of possibility.


But, the early adult's mind kept wandering towards such possibility. The panda chimera, if they were to tell him he could not go, was there any other options for him? There had been barely any other chimeras he had known in the Geo Nation of Contracts to even consider inviting.


As the early adult continued to cruise through the streets, other names rotated around in the chimera's partially human mind. The otter chimera duo, could they be an option? But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. Why was his mind wandering towards those two? He barely knew them. There was no way they would ever agree.


Other names floating around in his mind as half of the harbor city had been walked through, the chimera kept on juggling. Waiola, and Bogart, would they be willing to go if the panda chimera was unavailable? He supposed such open could have been one that wasn't impossible.


But, the hyena threw such possibility out the window. The panther twins were in the desert. There was no way they would wish to go with him on a journey to the mountains of Liyue. Why did he even allow his mind to jump to such option? The desert was way too far from the Geo Nation to even be considered.


Option tossed out the wayside, the chimera kept the other options open. Was there even anyone else he could even ask? Sifting through his head for names, one last ditch effort idea threw itself onto the table and stuck to it like a wad of gum left behind. Loba and Aega, maybe they would go with him.


But, the early adult shook his head as the city's exit was about to be reached. No. There was no way he could ask either of them. The jackal twins, they both had to have been busy taking care of patients. He could not interfere with their work, no matter what. Such would be quite inconsiderate of him, for sure.


Reaching the Wharf, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. Why was he thinking so hard about this? If there was no one that could go with him, the guard that was hired could easily be his plus one on this excursion. Drawing a line in the sand on such, the soldier readied to exit the area. But, as such was about to occur, a peculiarity stuck out to him.


Group of generic nobodies setting up a large stage, two very familiar backsides stuck out amongst the crowd of same faces. Long brown ponytail and brown suited backside, and plum hat and dress square pegs looking at the commotion, the early adult titled his head as his mind veered off course.


Hearing the opera singer from the backside talking, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just what could possibly be going on here? Had it been time for Lantern Rite? But, the early adult shook his head. No, that couldn't have been possible. Such event had already passed for the year, as far as he was aware.


Seeing a crane get hoisted upwards by many generic nobodies, the early adult had come to a quick conclusion. Liyue Harbor's Wharf was hosting some sort of opera in the near future. Come to such conclusion, the book had been closed upon such case. Readying to leave, the early adult turned around. But, faces turning his way soon stopped him in his tracks.


Tall brunette turning towards him, the soldier blinked. Why was he looking at him? But, he shook such feelings off. This wise man of many wisdoms was always everywhere across Liyue at any given time. Maybe he wasn't looking his way. But, words coming his way threw such thoughts for multiple loops in a matter of moments.


"Ah, Mr. Siorc, how are you faring?" the tall brunette asked.


Hearing such a question, the early adult blinked. How was he doing? He could feel a blank card drawn inside his mindscape as the inquiry came his way. Had he been doing well? He knew that was not true, at the moment. Had he been doing unwell? He knew that was not an answer he could provide, either.


Placing his right hand in front of him, the soldier flipped his palm upside down then right side up again. Gesture of feeling somewhere in the middle passed onto the tall brunette, the early adult placed his arms into a cross shaped position, fingers on shoulders. Digits soon curled, he then placed his tips next to his eyes, for a moment. Panda signed on display for everyone in the area to see, he looked into the man's eyes.


"You are asking about Miss Yínlóng, no?" the tall brunette asked, arms folded across his chest. "She is currently in Bishui Plain." But, another voice chimed in.


"Yínlóng seemed rather tired, as of late," the opera singer added. "So, we gave her some time off."


Hearing such information from the opera singer, a heavy wave of concern flowed through the chimera. Had something happened to them recently? Bowing a thank you towards the two, the hyena changed his destination. The bamboo trees would be his next stop.


As the early adult traversed the bridge, thoughts of doom flew through him. Yínlóng, had he fallen ill, too? The poison within him, was it contagious? He knew if the toxins had spread to him, he would need to apologize for such, immediately. Such outcome was his fault, without a doubt.


City soon left behind, the soldier shook his head. There was no way the jade poisons within him could have inflicted anyone else. The Agent, he seemed fine. There were no contagions to be had here. He needed to stop jumping to the worst possible conclusions imaginable.


Reaching Guili Plains, the thoughts of concern kept on going. The panda chimera was he alright? What could have possibly been making them so tired? Their life was always on easy street. A simple day of running and serving tea. But, the early adult popped such thoughts with a pin. Customer service was definitely a tiring job. He shouldn't water it down.


Continuing onward, the early adult let out a sigh. Why was he assuming the worst? He needed to stop doing that. Perhaps, just maybe, the panda chimera had been receiving more work lately. Why would he let himself think such negative conclusions? Enough was enough. No more, or he would have to change his name to Nancy.


Plains pushed through, the early adult took a long, deep breath. No more negativity. It was time to reset his chakras. Whatever chakras were, anyway. He did not know. Entrance towards the Inn upon him, the hyena hiked up the stairs, for a moment. He needed to throw the pessimism off the roof before departing further.


Ascending towards the rooftop of the temporary accommodation establishment, the soldier took a moment of reprieve. But, as he had done so, the early adult could hear someone coming up from behind him. Turning around, the Yaksha had been five meters away, arms crossed.


Look of disdain on the Yaksha's face, the hyena could feel a wave of fear flow through him. Had he been disturbing him with his presence? He needed to apologize for such right away. Bowing an apology, the hyena signed he was sorry for disturbing him. Repeating the sign a second time, his fingers quivered.


"You're not disturbing me," the yaksha answered. There a hint of hesitation in his voice and a long pause that followed after. "I no longer sense evil in you." But, he soon shook his head as he said such. "Nevermind. Farewell."


Mountain demon soon disappearing, the early adult scratched the side of his head. What an incredibly awkward exchange. Could this yaksha sense poison, or death inside people, or something? But, he supposed he did not wish to know that answer. Some things were better left unknown.


Knowing it was time to leave, the soldier exited the area. He would soon be in Bishui Plains, there was no time for any further thinking. He should be in vacation mode right now. Distractions were a contagious disease with a simple cure. Attempting to get himself back on track, the early adult readied to head towards Dihua Marsh.


Traversing across the swampy bogs and hopping over the broken bridge, the hyena let out a pant. Jumping towards the other side, as well, his panting about only got louder. His energy to do basic tasks was still a work in progress, for sure. Veering off towards the west, the soldier resumed walking.


Pushing through Stone Gate, the early adult prepared himself. Any moment now, and he would be beside the bamboo trees, the panda's former daily resting place. If he were to reject him, he would have no choice but to go alone with the guard. Surely, Her Majesty was not watching his every move.


As the bamboo trees drew closer the soldier prayed to the Geo Archon he was not supposed to worship the panda chimera had been around. Moving further west, the soldier kept himself on the lookout. Boars running away ready to slam into him, the hyena swerved off towards the right.


Turning his head towards the right and left, the panda chimera had soon been spotted. Yínlóng only laying down but not sleeping, the hyena placed himself beside him, back stretched out upon the grass. Closing his eyes for a moment, the chimera waited. It was their meeting all over again.


Seeing Siorc come over towards the bamboo trees, Yínlóng gazed towards him. Was he here to lay with him? That was a little unusual. But, he recalled what a regular at the teahouse told him. Was he alright? Maybe it was best to ask him how he was doing. Lifting himself up, he put on a tired smile.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "Here to lay with me?" A solemn expression soon appeared on his face. "Sorry for not being at the beach. Work has been tiring me out lately."


Lifting himself upward as well, the hyena blinked. Why was Yínlóng apologizing to him? He should not have been the one saying sorry. Placing his hands out in front of him, the hyena signed don't apologize on private display. One day of not following the exercise regimen was most certainly not a bad thing. But, a lemon soon dropped on the ground.


"I heard about what happened recently," Yínlóng said, giving the soldier a long embrace. "Are you okay?" Tears rolled down his face as he said such. "Miss Loba said there was a chance she could have lost you..."


Arms gently wrapped around him, the soldier off duty could not help but ponder. If he were to depart from this world, Yínlóng would be devastated. He needed to keep on living for the few and far between that cared an ounce about him. It was far too soon for him to lose the fight of life.


Inquiry coming his way about whether he was doing alright, the soldier turned his head off towards the opposite direction. There was no way he could lie and tell him he was completely fine when such was not the case. Turning back around, he looked the panda chimera in the eyes.


"I am not quite there yet, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. "I am sorry."


Hearing Siorc apologize, Yínlóng's brows furrowed. Why was he apologizing for? He had no reason to apologize, either. If he was still not at his best, he could rest here all he'd like, for as long as he wished. He needed to let him know there was nothing wrong with being not alright.


"Hey, no need to apologize!" Yínlóng exclaimed, waving his hands about. "Just take it easy, okay?" He then proceeded to compose himself. "You're here to rest, right? You can rest here all you'd like."


Panda chimera asking him if he were here to rest, the hyena shook his head. The excursion in Chenyu Vale, would he even want to go with him? They seemed just as tired as he was. But, he supposed asking him would be worth a shot. Steeling himself, the words fluttered outward.


"I will be going to Chenyu Vale for a recovery excursion," the hyena responded. He then took a deep breath, fingers crossed behind him. "I would like to invite you, sir."


Siorc extending out his hand, Yínlóng's cheeks grew as pink as his eyes. He was inviting him to go to Chenyu Vale? Was this kind of like a date? Face burning, he slowly shook his head. Why was he jumping to that? This was the same as previous times alone with him. Composing himself, they gave Siorc a glance. He just happened to have free time right now. Accepting his invitation was a given.


"An excursion in Chenyu Vale?" Yínlóng asked, words speeding up. "Sure, I'll go with you." He tilted his head, slowly pondering. "Do you need Mora? Grandpa is at Qingce Village today. I could ask him to lend me some."


Panda chimera's inquiry about Mora coming his way, the hyena shook his head. There was no way he could allow them to spend on anything today. Removing the red envelope from his back pocket, he pointed at it, for a moment. Returning the money holder to his cloth pits, the soldier signed the word bodyguard and find.


Watching Siorc's hands for a moment, Yínlóng placed their hands on their chin. Was Siorc saying he was trying to find a bodyguard? Hadn't there been one at Qingce Village right now where his grandfather had been at the moment? He couldn't help but feel a bit of a disappointment at such. He could protect him in his moment of weakness if needed. But, he knew he couldn't say something like that.


"You're looking for a bodyguard?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "I believe there's one at a Qingce Village right now from the Sword and Strongbox agency." His two index fingers touched. "Did your big bad Fatui boss hire them?"


Hearing the slight hesitation in Yínlóng's voice, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. Was hiring this guard truly necessary? If there were any monsters, he could fight them himself. But, he supposed he didn't have the energy to go about battling quite yet. Giving the panda a nod, he stood up from the grass.


Yínlóng soon standing up as well, the party of two moved forward upon the western pathway. Calm breeze flowing through as the two walked forward, the early adult could not help but feel a moment of bliss. The autumn wind was such a lovely feeling. Hopefully, the rain would stay away for awhile to come.


As the duo kept walking through the plains, the chimera kept his eyes open. The guard, what did they look like? He had never heard of the Sword and Strongbox Agency before. Where had they come from? Why had he never heard of them before? But, he supposed they were only recently established.


Moving past Wuwang Hill, the soldier turned towards the panda chimera. Yínlóng, is he going to enjoy this trip? He could not help but feel he might not. But, the hyena threw such negativity out the window. Why is he letting himself think the worst? Of course they would enjoy themselves. He needed to stop assuming the worst.


Elderly village area stroking closer, the soldier could not help but leap to a couple particular conclusions. The guard, could they have just been a lower ranked Fatui sent here on duty? He knew such had to have been a possibility. Such had been the case in Fontaine, the possibility of such applying to Liyue as well had higher odds than others.


Reaching Qingce Village after about an hour of slow walking, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Spotting a young man with brown hair and red ponytail peeking through a black hoodie with green accents look turning his head, the chimera shivered. Was this the guard that was hired? Had he been kept waiting? Turning towards him the hood soon dropped.


Face clearly visible, the hyena flinched. This young man, he was one of the judges at the cooking competition weeks prior. He was the guard that the Agent hired to go with him on his excursion in Chenyu Vale? He did not know why, but he felt bamboozled by such reveal. Smile on the guard's face, pleasantries dropped down upon him.


"Nice to meet you," the guard greeted, hand moving up and down as he spoke. "You are Siorc, right? I will be guarding you while on your photo excursion in Chenyu Vale."


Hearing the guard's words, the hyena tilted his head. He was going on a photo excursion? Where did that come from? The Agent never told him such a thing. Was he hiding such information? Why would he not alert him to something like this? But, he supposed he was used to his subordinate being vague with him on everything.


Giving the guard a nod, the soldier turned his face towards the opposite direction. How was he supposed to embark upon a photo excursion without a kamera? Absolutely ridiculous. The Agent really ought to not leave important details out. But, he had soon been dragged back to reality as a question tipped the scales.


"I see you brought someone along with you," the guard said, smiling. "Is she your date?" But, a flurried answer soon came his way.


"Date?" Yínlóng asked, blushing up a storm. Their two fingers then touched. "It's not a date, I swear! He just invited me to come along!"


"Got it, it's not a date," the guard responded, laughing. "We'll be going by raft. Is that alright? Leave all the battles to me!"


Knowing that normal citizens in Liyue did not have Teleport Waypoint proxy orbs to beam them anywhere, the soldier nodded. Was such question necessary? Panda nodding as well, the guard led the way. Moving northwest for a short amount of time, a generic nobody with a hat waited beside a bed of water.


Faceless no one welcoming the guard back asking if he found his client, a resounding yup had come his way. Everyone hopping on the raft, the soldier seated himself furthest away from the duo. Man in front pressing onward, the lake engulfed the wooden boat.


No one saying anything to one another as the journey had begun, the early adult observed the area coming up towards him. Spotting mountains from afar, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Had Chenyu Vale been a mountain range? How would anyone be able to take pictures in a place like this?


Water beds getting further and further away as the minutes droned on, the soldier grinned from ear to ear. Spotting lush green areas ahead of him, a wave of calmness flowed through him. Had there been forests in the area, as well? He needed to explore while still on this vacation, for sure.


Guard asking the panda and he if either of them had kameras on them, a double head shake had come his way. Young man saying he thought so. His employer gave him a couple, so he'll hand them over, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. He had been far too left out of the dark about this, for sure.


Spotting a boat docked on the other side of the waterways, the chimera could not help but wonder further. What kind of place was Chenyu Vale, exactly? Had it been a harbor area, too? He supposed he would soon fight out. But, his thoughts were soon cut short as an offering had come everyone's way.


"Would you two like some Dim sum?" the guard asked. "My treat."


Hearing such offer, the soldier stared off into space towards the opposite direction. Dim sum, could he even eat something like that right now? Everything still tasted like jade. Maybe it was best to not eat anything too heavy or meaty right now. It would not have any flavor to him, anyway. But, the panda's voice soon interrupted his food cart of thought.


"Oh, no, you don't have to go to all that trouble!" Yínlóng exclaimed.


Guard saying he insists, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. This guard was certainly very friendly, perhaps too friendly for his own good. But, he supposed a guard that wasn't good with the average folk was not fit for such line of employment. Being a people person had to have been one of the requirements for such line of work.


"That's really nice of you," Yínlóng responded. They then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, are you able to eat dim sum right now?"


Inquiry coming his way, the hyena shrugged. Could he eat something like that right now? He was not sure if he could provide a yes or no answer to such a question. Guard saying they'll order him some Jewelry Soup when they reach Qiaoying Village, the early adult held back the urge to apologize. This young man really did not need to go to such trouble to accommodate him.


Eventually reaching the docks, kameras with special zoom lens had been handed off to the hyena. Guard reminding them that they should leave the fighting to him and to enjoy themselves, the excursion was ready to begin. Guard moving himself off towards the side, the game was set.


Spotting peculiar brown furred creatures in the corner with bags on their backs, the hyena fired up the kamera. Was this something he would need to take a picture of for this excursion? He did not know, but he supposed it was best to capture anything and everything around him just in case.


Moving through a dirt road with lush green grass aplenty, the hyena could feel a wave of calmness flow through him. This place, how had he never been here before during his various days in Liyue? It was almost as if an outside force prevented such place from being accessible to the general population until recently. But, such fact was unknown to the soldier off duty.


Finding himself beside a quiet area filled to the brim with shelves holding multiple pots, the soldier off duty snapped a photo of such phenomenon. Had this been someone's pottery grounds? How very interesting. He hoped whoever had resided here did not mind him snapping a few photos.


Panda snapping a photo of the tower off in the corner, the hyena could not help but wonder. What kind of secrets was this area hiding? He had never been here before. There had to have been a lot of hidden things just waiting to be be discovered. Readying to continue on, the soldier kept his finger on the shutter.


But, as the group moved towards the lake in the corner, slimes with icy barriers came out of hiding before the soldier could even blink. Guard stepping up to the plate, a battle, party of one shook the area to its very core. Young man bringing out a bright red Claymore straight out of Blackcliff Forge, the fight soon began.


Guard slashing forward with all his might, the soldier watched the fight in silence. This person was a member of the Sword and Strongbox Agency alright. What would he fight with if not some sort of sword? But, his fighting style soon took a turn for the peculiar.


Young man summoning a lion, he soon hopped upwards towards the sky, creature spinning in a circle as he plunged downward. Bits of fire coming through, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. This man had a pyro vision? How incredibly terrifying. Eyes remaining shut, the flames were out sight, out of mind. Enemies soon removed from the equation, fascination soon filled the hills.


"You're a wushu dancer?" Yínlóng asked, words faster than normal. "I always wanted to be one!"


"You can join my troupe, if you'd like," the guard replied.


"You have open spots? I'd love to, but," Yínlóng responded, pausing for a moment. "I can't right now, sorry."


Guard letting the panda chimera know he's free to join whenever he wants to, the early adult gazed at them, for a moment. If he wanted to join a dance troupe, he should, if the opera won't ever take him in. But, the soldier kept himself quiet. There was no way he could say something like that under any circumstance.


Moving right along, a peculiar object stuck out to the soldier. Spotting weird looking unlit lamps on the lakeside, the early adult grabbed his kamera. Taking multiple shots of them one after another, the hyena could not help but wonder. What did these things, do exactly? At a later point in time, he would need to investigate them, for sure.


Spotting green lit up tiles in the area as well, the hyena snapped a photo of such next. Seeing such, wanderlust continued to eat the hyena alive. Just what kind of mysterious things were about to await him here? How fascinating. What a nice place to be forced to go for a recovery excursion.


Only way to continue being to climb up the mountain, the party of three ascended upward. Spotting a strange green light up above, the hyena could not help but wonder further. What had that thing been in the sky? Were they fireflies buzzing around during the daytime? How very peculiar, if such were the case.


Reaching the top of the cliffsides, the trio moved forward. Moving towards a lake with a small hut in the corner the hyena could not help but notice a table with a tea kettle on top of it. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why had something like that been left here?


Snapping a photo of such, the hyena turned his attention towards the lake in the corner. Spotting a turtle by the river, and beautiful pink flowers the chimera snapped ten more photos than necessary. What were those beautiful river flora? He had never seen such a thing before.


Squirrels seating themselves beside a weird owl statue, the early adult backed six steps away. Zooming the kamera lens in from afar, the snapshot of the ages had soon been captured. Waterfall on the other side caught on film, as well, the group moved along towards a stone bridge.


Young woman staring off at the water greeting the guard asking him if he were on a job, a resounding yes had come the lady's way. But, a peculiar question dropped in, as well. Asking if she saw his folks, a head shake had been returned to such question, for a moment.


Guard looking pleased, for some reason, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Why was he so happy over his family not being here? Did he not get along with them? But, the early adult cut such thoughts up with a knife. Whatever was going on with this person was no business of his. He was a stranger to him. It would have been quite terribly rude of him to poke his nose in where it did not belong.


Soon brought towards a rural village with tea leave fields and multiple houses, the early adult could not help but smile from ear to ear. Chenyu Vale was absolutely gorgeous. If he were to ever leave the Fatui, he would move here, in an uneven heartbeat. But, he knew such point in his life would unfortunately never arrive.


Guard soon announcing they're in Qiaoying Village now, and he'll order the dim sum like he promised, the young man guided the panda and he towards a wooden table in the corner. Orders of the dumpling dish and soup given to a generic elderly nobody, questions had come the panda and he's way.


"How are you two enjoying your excursion so far?" the guard asked.


Not wishing to give the guard a verbal answer, the early adult gave the young man a thumbs up. Warm smile coming his way, the hyena returned such face in kind. This man, he seemed like the kind of person who was friends with anyone, and everybody. He would need to watch out for people who might take advantage of him in the future, for sure.


"And, how are you enjoying the excursion, Miss Panda?" the guard asked. "Sorry, I just realized I never asked for your name." He let out a tiny laugh.


"Oh, you're right, you didn't! I'm Yínlóng!" Yínlóng exclaimed, words slow. "I'm having a great time. This place is pretty calming." He then turned his heads off towards the opposite direction, whispering something that went unheard.


Order of dim sum and Jewelry Soup soon placed on the table, the hyena watched as the panda chimera and guard chowed down on the soft, meaty steamed dumplings. Party of two looking like they were having a grand old time, the chimera stared at his soup bowl for minutes on end.


Glaring daggers at the bowl of broth in front of him, a question threw itself out onto the food battlefield. Could he even swallow anything right now? His throat, it still had jade in it right now. Taking a long deep breath, the spoon hovered over the water, for a few more moments.


Vegetables dropping down his throat slowly, the feeling of jade broke through the chimera's esophagus as he kept devouring. Feeling such, the early adult held back the urge to cry. Would food ever not taste like cold, hard crystals? Recovery was only half the battle. Trying his best to not choke, he ate slowly.


Yínlóng and the guard still eating their dim sum, the soldier could not help but feel left out. But, he knew he would not be able to eat such a thing right now. The meat would get trapped in his throat, for sure. It was beset to stop staring at other people's food. Such was very rude of him. But, as he looked away, eyes wandered towards him.


"Siorc, do you want some?" Yínlóng asked.


Shaking his head, the panda and guard soon finished up their meal. Questions coming his way about if he were able to eat everything alright, the early adult gave a nod. While such had been a half truth, it was best to not give them anything further to worry about. Everyone standing, the next part of the excursion was ready.


Spotting fish statues outside a house, the hyena snapped a photo of such, for a moment. Seeing such a thing, he could not help but feel some sort of holiness radiating from it. Did fish in Chenyu Vale have some sort of special meaning to them? Perhaps, just maybe, he could ask the tall brunette about such at a later date.


Taking a photo of the tea leaf fields in the corner of the area, the hyena could not help but wonder further. Had this part of Liyue been a tea village? How commendable to grow everything naturally for their beverages. Perhaps, just maybe, Yínlóng could gather the plants here to make his tea even higher quality than it had been before.


Soon informed their next stop would be heading towards the Wharf northwest of here, the party of three readied to depart the village. Exiting the area, more lush greenery awaited from every angle. Seeing such, the beauty of the world absorbed the chimera's entire being. If only he could never leave here.


But, such moments of peace were cut short as Hilichurls blocked the pathway outside the abodes of many. Guard taking out his claymore once more, the soldier off duty watched in silence as the young man went about his unlimited blade work for minutes on end.


Lion dance added to the mix as the fight went on, the soldier closed his eyes. Fire here, fire there, fire everywhere. Why couldn't he avoid seeing such a terrifying thing at least during his vacation? Turning his back as the fight continued, the sound of Hilichurls falling one after another echoed in his partially human eardrums.


Moving onward, mesmerizing views took the soldier by storm. Mountains aplenty calling out to the hyena's lenses, the early adult snapped multiple photos of the area's various points of interest. Attempting to make multiple angles of the cliffs, the early adult let out a sigh. This place was almost too perfect. How was he supposed to get everything on kamera that he wanted to?


Yet again coming across the peculiar orange lamps floating across the water, a much large fixture caught the soldier off duty's attention, in a matter of moments. These objects, were they some sort of puzzle that needed to be solved here? He would definitely need to look further into this again later.


Panda chimera snapping photos of the wooden rafts upon the water, the hyena snapped a photo of such, as well. Maybe getting a photo of some of the unnatural occurring phenomenon would be good for the excursion, as well. Taking multiple, the trio kept heading west.


Spotting interesting looking jade deposits by the rivers, the early adult flinched, for a moment. Had there been Noctilucuous Jade here, too? If such were here, he needed to get away from it, right now. Feeling the urge to shrivel up and wither away, fear ate the soldier up in a matter of moments. But, his fear had soon been noticed.


"Are you worried about the Clearwater Jade?" Yínlóng asked, concerned tone of voice. "I promise you, this one isn't toxic." As he said such, his panda ears moved around on the top of his head. "But, if any are laced, I will protect you!"


Snapping a photo of the not poisonous jade, the soldier's knees buckled. Toxic or not, the fear would not leave him, even for a moment. But, he knew he had to get over it. There was nothing noxious about it. He had to move on from his feelings of deep seeded fear. Such incident that occurred would never happen again.


Various photos of the scenery soon took, the party of three kept moving forward. Spotting a large port off in the distance, the guard soon informed the panda and he they had been halfway through towards the wharf. Hearing such, the soldier could not help but feel a slight wave of disappointment. It was all almost over already? What a shame.


Passing through a lush green area for a long while, multiple angles one after another had been taken in quick succession. Yínlóng snapshotting some things, as well, the group kept moving right along. Spotting groups of generic nobodies also taking their own set of photos, questions soon floated through the early adult's mind.


This photo excursion, had it been some sort of competition with multiple people involved? Realizing such had been a possibility, the chimera could feel a wave of defeat flow through him. But, he supposed whoever won did not matter. He had been told about this event only the day of. Whether he were to win or loss was not important.


Spotting a long wooden bridge leading towards the port area, the soldier off duty took a photo of such. But, as he did such, he could not help but wonder. What kind of photos was he going to be submitting to this competition? But, he guessed he would find out once he reached the wharf.


Moving forward, the soldier took a photo of the architecture from afar. Seeing wheels turning off in the distance, a wave of fascination flowed through him. How incredible, this place was. Liyue had so many hidden beauties he had never been able to witness.


Guard soon informing the panda and he that they had arrived at Yilong Wharf, the hyena scratched his cheek. What was this place called again? Name echoing, the chimera could not help but wonder. Yínlóng, had he been named after this area? He could not help but noticed the similarities in the two.


Seeing a group of people walking through the area kameras in hand, the guard kept the escort going. Guard soon explaining he will be taking them to the office now, the group of three moved through the wharf. Large boat side town walked through, the soldier snapped a few more photos.


Spotting wooden photo boards in the corner that were currently empty, the soldier turned his head towards him. There would be pictures upon the displays soon, without a doubt. Moving past the area, a small in like establishment had soon been reached. Spotting multiple stairs the hyena took a long deep breath. It was time for more climbing.


Ascending three rounds of staircases, a woman behind a desk soon presented herself to the generic nobodies in front of him. Group of unimportant people dropping their photobooks on the desk one after another, the hyena snapped his fingers. He didn't have such a thing with him.


Dropping the multiple photos onto the desk, the lady up front shook her head at such. Bowing an apology, she took the photos anyway. But, such apology had been a waste of time. Woman behind the counter telling him it was fine, sweat poured down the chimera's face. Was it really alright? He couldn't help but feel his group had broken a rule.


Woman behind the counter saying everyone took wonderful pictures, and that she will be putting them in the photo board outside, the chimera held back the urge to let his jaw drop to the floor. What was this, a kid's game where everyone was considered a winner? He did not know why, but he wished to pretend he did not hear that.


Everyone clearing out of the area, the lady at the counter soon left the area. Hearing her say the Wharf would have so many wonderful pictures now, the early adult shrugged. He supposed he never saw this as a competition anyway. Everyone being a winner did not matter, in the slightest. Guard soon looking his way as she left, the hyena gave eye contact.


"Your boss told me that I'll be guarding you for the next two days," the guard said. "So, I'll see again tomorrow. Same time?"


Placing his pitch black hands in front of him, the soldier signed the word earlier for every onlooker to see. Guard giving him a nod, he had soon exited the area. Panda chimera soon looking his way as he left, the chimera gazed into their pink eyes as they gazed at his mismatched ones.


"I have to go home and ask my parents if it's alright to go with you again tomorrow," Yínlóng said in a whisper. "Meet me here again tomorrow?"


Giving the panda a nod, he soon exited the area, as well. Everyone away, the soldier descended the staircase. But, as he moved past the photo board that had just been set up, a generic nobody in plain Liyue clothes stood in the pathway with their arms crossed around their waist. Attempting to step around them, they kept blocking his way.


"Soldier, your boss has booked a room for you," the generic nobody said. "Follow me."


Coming to a quick realization the person in front of him had been an undercover Fatui, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Had this person been sent here on the Agent's behalf? Why did they need to go to such lengths to hide themselves amongst the common folk? What an unnecessary level of heeded caution.


Escorted to a private room, a reminder had come the hyena's way. Disguised Fatui informing him a doctor would be coming here in the morning to look at him, the chimera gave the soldier a nod. Told to wake up early, the early adult nodded once more Person soon leaving, the hyena stared at the wall, for a moment.


Late evening soon dropping in, the soldier crawled into the temporary bed. Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the hyena closed his eyes. World of dreams ready to drag him back in for the taking, the land of sleep was ready to take the chimera away. But as he drifted off, one final thought wrapped vines around him.


How much longer until he would be fully healed?


***


Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the soldier's adult life. The wheel would spin, and turn, always landing on the worst possible result imaginable. But, the night before him would prove that landing on the lucky spot was possible once in every thousands dreamscapes.


Before him had been a bed of daisies. But, the flowers had been accompanied by someone he had never seen before. Blinking, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had he been seeing things? He knew, however, that was not possible. He was in the dream world. Whatever was in front of him right now was there in the not reality.


Taking a closer look, the chimera studied the foreign visitor for a moment. Standing beside the daisies had been a strange fairy creature he had never seen before in the mortal, waking world. Fae creature adorning bright pink hair with triangular looking buns on the top of their head and braided buns below their ears with long, dangling side burns, the hyena gazed at their clothes for a moment. Pink Liyuean style dress with pill capsules printed everywhere, her outfit glowed against their fuchsia eyes. Translucent, sparkly moth wings behind them, as well, the hyena ended his examination.


Seeing such a person, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the chimera. Just who was this person, or fairy, rather? He had never come across them in the mortal, waking world. The imagination was a mysterious phenomenon with many intricacies. Fae creature waving at him, he gave them subconscious eye contact.


"Hello there! Don't mind me," the fairy greeted. "I'm just here keeping that evil poison away from you."


Hearing such, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. They were doing what now? Just who was this person, exactly? Is he really, truly dreaming right now? Everything felt so real. Attempting to ask who they were, the chimera attempted to open his dream lips. Words, however, escaped him. Fae creature giving him a warm smile, they soon spoke.


"I'm not anyone, really," the fae creature responded to his wordlessness. "But, you can call me Aunty Dote, if you'd like. You won't remember me once you're better, anyway."


Hearing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was this fairy some sort of subconscious manifestation of the medicine he had been taking to neutralize the poison that had been coursing through him? How strange. This was quite the trip. Maybe the does he had been given was a little too strong.


Seating himself by the daisies, absolutely nothing happened for many dream minutes on end. Gazing at everything around him, calmness flowed through him. The dream world, it was peaceful, for a change. Such was a nice change of pace from the usual torment underneath the sheets. Fairy soon embracing him, the chimera swore he could feel her nonexistent warmth.


"It'll be okay now," the fairy said in a gentle voice. "Aunty Dote will do her best to make you better."


Fairy soon leaving and dream world crumbling to bits and pieces, the soldier readied himself to return to the mortal, waking world. As everything cracked into pieces one after another, a realization soon blazed through the early adult's mind as his eyes were about to open.


He sees now.


She's the antidote.


***


"I don't quite understand
Today's order of business. I have to do


What now? Build a kite for a competition?
Of all the thing I can for a vacation, this one seems kind of
Unusual. I have never flown a kite. Nor have I built one.
Looks like this is some sort of important thing in Liyue culture. I
Don't understand, but I


Shouldn't knock something before I have tried it.
Every nation's culture is important,
Every nation's culture should be celebrate.
Maybe this will be something fun.


Though, maybe it might be insulting to treat this like it's some sort
Of game. Wouldn't the Liyue citizens be mad at me?
Don't water this down
As if it's some kind of toy to play with.
Yes, it is an important symbol.


I have to remind myself of that.


Will I be able to make a sufficient kite?
I do not know. It
Looks like I will have to try my best. This will
Likely be the only time I will ever


Build one, so I have to make it count.
Even so, it seems I will have to gather the


Kite materials.
I don't quite understand
This. Well,
Either way, after they're collected, I'll hopefully be able to make a


Fine kite, that is Rex
Lapis approved.
Yeah, that's probably not going to happen.
I don't believe the Archons are watching this out of
Nowhere, sudden kite flying competition.
Guess I still have to give it my all. To the next round of my vacation."


Waking up early for the morning, the Fatui disguising themselves as a herbalist from Blackcliff Forge brought the doctor in. Tall man with long green hair, glasses and a terrifying snake on his neck, the chimera turned around for a moment. This scary medical professional again? Seating himself upon a wooden stool in the room, the chimera's eyes wandered off towards the wall as he spoke to him.


"I will be checking your vitals, alright?" the doctor said. Whatever else he had to say, the hyena had tuned such out.


Giving the doctor a nod, the chimera reluctantly lifted up his shirt. Ugly scar on display, the chimera closed his eyes. Cold, sterile medical instruments pressed upon multiple spots on his chest and gloves pressed against his stomach, the early adult flinched. Everything was ice.


Doctor informing him he needs to look at his throat for a moment, the hyena opened wide. Information coming his way that some of the jade inside throat and vitals were chipping away, the soldier held back the urge to puff a sigh of relief. Would food finally not taste like rocks soon? Medical professional handing him his next round of medicine, orders had come his way.


"Your condition is improving, but I can't clear you to go back to work yet," the doctor said. "This medicine might make you a little drowsy, but you should soon see a drastic decrease of jade on your body over the course of the next few days." Snake hissing for a moment, he continued. "Take care, and make sure to get ample amounts of rest."


Scary snake doctor soon taking his leave, the hyena took a moment to check himself, for a moment. Lifting up his layered shirts, a slight surprise awaited him. Stomach no longer covered in jade, relief washed over him. Had the medicine been doing its job? He supposed he owed the tablets for his life going back to normal.


Arms and legs still covered in the black jade entirely, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed, some areas would heal slower than others, and there was absolutely nothing that could be down about it. Twisting the cap off the medicine bottle, plain white capsules sat in the soldier's hands.


Downing his next dose of medication for the day, the soldier prayed to the Geo Archon he was not supposed to worship for a speedier recovery. How much longer would this jade stay stuck upon him? He did not know the answer to such, but he hoped no more than three days, at most.


Exiting his temporary accommodations, the panda chimera had been waiting outside. Seeing such, the soldier bowed an apology. Had he kept him waiting for too long? Such was unacceptable if so. Eyes soon on him, the hyena retained eye contact. Was he about to hear good news, or bad news?


"Papa and mama told me I can join you on your vacation until you get better," Yínlóng said, words slow. His two index fingers soon touched. "Boss told me I can take off work, too."


Guard soon coming along giving a friendly greeting and energetic good morning, the hyena gazed at the young man. This person sure had a lot of energy in the morning. Some people should learn from his example. Pleasantries exchanged, strange information had soon been revealed.


"Seems there will be a kite flying competition today," the guard explained. "Will you two be competing?"


"I don't mind," Yínlóng responded. He then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, would you like to?"


Giving the panda chimera a nod, the question had soon been turned towards the guard. Guard turning such request down saying he's not very fond of kites, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Wasn't that sharing a little too much information? People who could make friends the easiest were a little scarier than he thought.


Guard soon informing the panda and he that they would have to gather the kite parts because he did not have them on him, the early adult let out a sigh. He didn't have the kite parts on him? Where had they gone? How unprofessional. But, the chimera threw his judgement away as the next line of words had been presented to him.


Young man stating the kite parts had been taken to the south mountains, the hyena's eyes twitched. Had he just implied the components had been stolen? Some people were the lowest of the low, nabbing things that were for a competition. The life of a criminal was one of no boundaries.


Knowing it was time to head south, the guard led the way. Yilong Wharf soon exited, the chimera kept his eyes open for anything that looked like it could be used for a kite. Nothing sticking out as the seaside dwelling had been left behind, the party of three kept moving along.


Moving onwards towards the south, a beautiful, lush green area filled with mountains awaited the soldier off duty. Seeing such scenery again, the chimera placed his hands on his chest. Nature was always so beautiful. How could he have ever decided to break up with it at any point in time?


Moving through the southwest area for awhile, nothing of especial use for kite making appeared anywhere. Realizing such, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just how far had these pieces been taken? Wherever they may have been hiding, they couldn't have gone too far.


Soon spotting a peculiar teapot that poured its own tea into a cup nearby, the hyena jumped five steps back. Had there been a ghost in the area giving itself a drink? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. No. There was no way that could have possibly been the case. He had to have been imagining it.


Hostile Hilichurls soon coming a running, hostilities had been thrown towards the trio in a matter of moments. Monster waving his club around with full force, the early adult readied to leap into action. Although, such jump into the fight never came. Guard on duty reminding him to leave all the battles to him, the chimera stepped back.


Lion dance doing the honors, the Hilichurl faded into the ether quicker than the soldier should blink. Leave all the battle to him, indeed. There was no way he would have been able to get any battles in if he even were given the opportunity to do so. This young man was definitely a guard, for certain. He protected and attacked.


Kite pieces soon collected, the chimera stared at the components, for a moment. There seemed to be quite a lot of complicated things that would be needed to make such a thing. Such was the price of having to do everything on one's own. Pieces pocketed, the time to move on had came.


Pushing towards a small mountain range, more pieces for the kite had soon been gathered. Hilichurl bodies piled up a plenty, the chimera backed two steps away. Some people were far too powerful for their own good. Other supplies for the building process taken into the guard's hands, the pursuit continued.


Next round of pieces soon collected after a tussle with a slime or two, the chimera swore he could see the guard huff and puff for a little. This young man, was he tiring himself out? He should let the panda and he fight alongside him, if such were the case. But, he knew he would tell him no if he said such, so he kept his mouth shut.


Guard soon saying there's still more kite pieces to collect, the soldier let out a barely audible groan. What was this, some sort of toy brick set with three thousands pieces that once done, made a building? But, the hyena threw such thought away. What was he going on about? He was exaggerating the issue, for sure.


Young man telling the panda and he to let him know if they'd like to take a break, he'll treat them to something, the panda chimera soon fired back they should be the one treating him to a meal, he had been working so hard, insistence soon looped on repeat from the opposite party.


Hearing the guard continuing to insist that he doesn't mind treating his new friend, the early adult held back the urge to shake his head. This young man was quite the people person. He couldn't ever be like that, even if he tried his hardest to force himself to talk to others.


Moving onwards towards the southwest area, a peculiar sight awaited the soldier. Spotting strange devices across the way with green smoke inside them, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What was this thing? Chenyu Vale had quite the assortment of statues.


Party of two in front of him moving forward faster than he, the soldier got absorbed into the scenery. How did this place grow to be so beautiful? Panda chimera calling out to him, the hyena removed himself from the land of the imagination. Why was he letting himself drift off now? He didn't have time for that.


Pathway soon blocked off by a multitude of Hilichurls, the soldier placed himself into a fighting stance. There was ten of them here? That was way too many for the guard to fight by himself. He couldn't just sit by and watch in silence as he were about to do so. Yínlóng taking out a golden spear, the chimera attempted to transform his human hands into hyena paws. His entrance into the fight, however, was cancelled before it could ever arrive by a slow shout.


"Siorc, no! Please, don't join this fight!" Yínlóng shouted, words slow. "You're still recovering from your illness. Just leave this to us, okay?"


Forced to sit out of the fight, the soldier stood and watched as the guard and panda fought the Hilichurl army in front of him. Biting his lower lip, the early adult let out a loud, visible hmph. Recovering from an illness, smecovering from a zillness. They were just the primitive common enemy. There was no way he would strain himself from such a thing.


Hilichurls soon dropping the next kite parts, the guard soon pocketed them. Young man informing everyone they had to keep going south, for now, the early adult followed behind in silence. More battles taking place as they kept moving along, a wave of uselessness flowed through the hyena. He was a paperweight.


Soon reaching a large mountain scape, the party of three scaled the cliffs. Spotting strange statues that brought out wind when going near them, the hyena leaped upward. Moved further up the mountain from such ascent, more kite pieces had soon been gathered.


Moving further up the mountain, an owl statue soon spoke about being moved onto its pedestal. Hearing such a thing, the soldier off duty tilted his head. Had he been hearing things? How peculiar. Pressing onward, more peculiarities awaited quicker than they had before.


Finding multiple pots in the area, the guard soon hit them. Pieces soon dropping out from the containers, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Had there been secret treasures inside those hollow spaces? He would have to check later if such were the case. But, the oddities would only keep going.


Reaching an area with a strange statue, a floating golden carp stood beside it. Creature soon talking, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Was he hallucinating, or was this fish talking to him. Panda looking confused, as well, he put a pin in such thought. Maybe he wasn't, or they both were.


Carp informing them that there were more kite pieces around an area known as Jademouth, the soldier mouthed words of gratitude towards the mysterious creature. This area sure had a lot of interesting mysteries to it. He could feel the deep itch of further exploration begin to bite him. Maybe next vacation he could do so.


Readying to move onwards towards Jademouth, the group of two in front of him had begun to walk southward. Straggling behind, a sea of thoughts flooded the chimera's mind like a rainstorm that lasted over forty days in some fable book claimed to be written by the gods.


Continuing to straggle, the chimera could not help but ponder. Had Chenyu Vale been governed by a different God besides Rex Lapis? He did not know why, but he couldn't feel the presence of the God of Contracts anywhere here. But, the hyena shook such feelings off. He was thinking far too deeply about this.


Questions continuing to eat him, the chimera stared off into space as he kept on going. Could this region's god have been a carp? Recalling he had seen multiple fish statues in the village he had been taken to, the possibility had not been writing on the wall. Whatever that meant. He would often hear his father say such in his stolen childhood while going over his research in his study at night.


Soon reaching Jademouth faster than he could keep up, the chimera snapped himself out of it. Why was he letting himself get so distracted by his thoughts like this? He needed to stop doing that. Shaking everything off, another place of many beauties awaited him from a glance.


Stepping towards the grass beds in the corner, more Hilichurls added themselves to the party. Guard taking out his claymore and panda chimera taking out their polearm, the hyena once again tried to join the fight. But, his participation had not been granted. Told to once again to relax and let them fight, the soldier curled his lip into a pouting face.


Fight over rather quickly, the final set of kite pieces had been gathered. Guard soon informing them there was enough pieces between the two of them to make their own kites, another offer had come his way to join in on the festivities. Although, such invitation had quickly been declined.


Laying down the parts upon the grass, the chimera took four sticks and formed them into the shape of the letter t. Shorter stick placed below the current four, the hyena tilted his head was this how a kite was made from scratch? He hoped he was doing it right. Panda chimera doing the same, he moved onto the next step.


Sticks soon attached together by a sturdy string, the soldier tied them shut. Sticky white solvent clinging them together further, scissors had been handed off to the panda and he. Notch made on the top stick, the next order of business was ready to begin. Hands on the string, the duo wrapped the rest around the frame.


Told they would need to think of a nice design for both their kites, the soldier could not help but wonder. What kind of design did he want his kite to have? He did not have the drawing capabilities to do so. Signing that he cannot draw towards the guard, and offer had come his way.


"I can help you draw it if you'd like," the guard said. "What design would you like?"


Whispering in the guard's ear low enough for an audience to never be able to hear, the drawing had soon begun. Doodle perfectly made, the chimera had begun cutting according to the young man's instructions. Hearing a somber tone in his voice as he had done so, a wave of guilt flowed through him. Right, the guard didn't like kites that much. He should have just drawn a stick figure.


Outline done and ready, the chimera attached his design onto the strings. Adding a little bit of glam and sparkle as he finished, the hyena stared at his possible disaster. Would this kite be able to fly? He sure hoped so. Panda finishing his kite, as well, the soldier off duty turned to look at their creation.


Panda shaped kite looking nearly finished, the chimera put on a soft smile. Yínlóng designed his kite after himself? How adorable. Head turning towards his, as well, praise had soon come his way towards his Glaze Lily kite. Asking if he had drawn it, he shook his head. Pointing at the guard, he had soon been told to think nothing of it.


Informed that the competition would be taking place in Qiaoying Village, the final escort of the day had soon taken the stage. Long trip back east moving forward, the early adult put his game face on. A kite flying competition? He had to have to stood at least a small chance of winning this time.


Reaching the scene of the competition, the rules of the game had been laid out to everyone. Announcer stating the kite that flew the highest would be determined the winner, multiple children, generic nobodies, and one white haired person from afar he could barely see shouting they were ready, a whistle soon blew.


Everyone letting their kites go upwards towards the sky, the hyena whirred the string up with a storming fury. Multiple other competitors with their carp, bird and various other shapes, the early adult pushed the string further. He needed to fly higher, soar to further heights, reach the top.


Multiple other kites tapping out of the race, the panda kite soon ascended further. Spotting an otter kite look like it was about to touch the moon, the chimera let more of his string go away. That otter competitor in the clouds, he needed to beat it right here, right now.


More kites soon tapping out of the race entangling themselves into trees, the soldier dropped out more strings. Inching higher than the top competition for only a few seconds, the otter kept beating him. Panda riding steady, the chimera let loose. It was game on. He could not lose here.


Announcer saying there was two minutes left, the hyena let the string trickle down further. Barely any left, the soldier screamed. This otter above him, he would show it who was the boss here. Letting out a battle cry, the final string brow away. Feeling a tug, the hyena swore if he let it go any higher he would fly away, too.


Such effort was futile. Announcing counting down to zero, the winner had soon been announced. Someone named Qiongqi winning, the early adult sighed. Maybe he had gotten too heated there. He supposed he deserved this loss. Humbling himself, the soldier off duty accepted defeat.


Leaving the village before he could even meet the crowned victor, the guard soon left for the day. Knowing he would likely see him again tomorrow, the soldier again could not help but wonder. Had the guard had some kite related trauma? He knew even if he did, it was not his business. Panda chimera soon looking his way, he returned a look in tandem.


"There's something I want to get you," Yínlóng stated. "Come with me to Yilong Wharf?"


Giving the panda chimera a nod, the soldier followed behind him. Reaching the wharf after about an hour of walking, he had been guided towards a generic nobody running some sort of shop in the corner. Small, edible tea dessert purchased, the two seated themselves. Splitting the dessert between one another, the hyena had begun to dig in.


As the chimera ate the rocky tea sweet, the chimera turned his attention towards the panda chimera. Yínlóng, had he been named after Yilong Wharf? Hearing the name again, he could not help but feel that had to have been the case. The names were far too similar to be a coincidence.


"Did you want to ask me something?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "You look as though you have something on your mind." As he said such, he took out a notepad. "Write it down?"


Notepad handed to him, the early adult turned towards Yínlóng. He knew he was thinking deeply about something? The panda chimera was always so perceptive. Nothing ever got past him. Bending the cover back, the soldier wrote down, were you named after Yilong Wharf? Dotting the question mark, he returned the book to its owner.


"Was I named after Yilong Wharf?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "No; my name means silver dragon." Their two index fingers then touched. "Mama told me it's a tradition in our family to be named after dragons so that we grow up strong." A slow smile creeped on their face. "What does your name mean?"


Question coming his way, the hyena placed his hand on his chin. The meaning of his name? He had never been asked something like this before. Notebook returned to him, the chimera wrote down that his name meant shark. But, as he wrote such down, he turned towards the panda chimera. Naming someone after a dragon so they would grow up strong? He wanted to hear more about that. Adding a line reading he would like to hear more about his family culture someday, he returned the notepad to its owner. But, as he had done so, he had been pulled into a warm embrace.


"Thank you for being so interested in my culture," Yínlóng responded, tears streaming down their face as their embrace continued. "You're so sweet." But, he then proceeded to let go. "I have to go home now. I'll see you tomorrow."


Panda chimera soon leaving, the evening rolled in as if it had come to haunt the soldier. Fatui in disguise telling him it was time to go back to his room, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. Did this person have to ruin the calm mood he had going? How annoying.


Feeling a heavy wave of drowsiness overtake him as he had been escorted to the room, the soldier remembered. Right. The scary snake doctor had told him this would happen. Maybe it was time to call it a night and get some sleep. Fatui shutting the door behind him, he slipped underneath the temporary covers. World of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought took him for a ride.


Yínlóng looked so happy.


***


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of tormenting within the soldier's life. But, the wheel of torture halted itself in the night before him. Everything put on pause, a temporary wall blocked the harmful monsters out, bubble locking away any hazard that would try to let anything in.


Before him had been a field of posies. But, the flowers had not been alone. Spotting Aunty Dote twiddling her lacy feet, the soldier walked towards her. She was visiting again? Maybe these drugs he had been taking were a little too potent after all. But, he supposed anything beat the constant cycle of burning and death.


"There you are," Aunty Dote said in a sweet voice. "Come and sit with me."


Sitting himself next to the fairy, the hyena turned towards her, for a moment. Fae creature wearing a light pink hanfu, the soldier could not help but wonder. Would she appear in different forms the weaker or stronger the dose he had? The early adult did not know. The world of medicine was an intricate one.


Relaxing beside the posies for the time being, nothing but the gentle breeze in the not reality blew about. No monsters or flames to worry about, the soldier could not help but wonder. How much of the poison had still been within his system? He knew it would be a bit before he was fully healed. Fairy looking at him once more, he gave her eye contact.


"I am working every hard," Aunty Dote said, voice full of energy. "The poison should be gone soon."


Hearing such, the soldier could not help but wonder. Once the poison removed itself from his system, would this fairy visitor be gone, too? He knew he would have to prepare himself for the world of nightmares to come crawling back to him shortly. But, as if she could read his thoughts, the fae creature spoke once more.


"Indeed. Once my job is done, I will be gone," Aunty Dote replied to his thoughts. "You won't remember me."


Waking world ready to pull him back in, the hyena let out a somber sigh. Right. Once the drug's job was done, he would be back to normal. The fairy would be no more. He supposed he already knew that. Dream world crumbling around him as he was ready to wake up, one final thought let itself out as he was about to come into consciousness.


So, he'll be cured completely.


***


"My last day of vacation is here.
Yes, after this moment, it


Looks like I can finally go back to work.
Although, apparently, the
Stone will still take awhile
To clear away. I guess that's just how it is. This will be a


Day by day case.
After some time, it will all go away.
Yes, it will soon fade.


Obviously, I should remain patient.
For, it will crumble when it's ready. For now,


Vacation awaits me.
Ah, to be honest, I don't really know what
Could be in store for me today.
As I seem to be treading down some sort of plan.
That is fine,
I suppose. I have no idea what I wish to do, honestly. I have no
Open guides to tell me where to go. So, for
Now, I'll just ride the wave."


Waking up the next morning, the Fatui in disguise brought the next doctor in. The scary snake physician was he going to examine him again while his terrifying pet looked at him? But, he soon had been sorely mistaken. Loba stepping in with a full bag of medical supplies on her, a gentle, but serious look appeared on her face.


"Good morning, honey," Loba said, sweet tone of voice. "I will be examining you today."


Jackal asking him how he was feeling, a notepad had been slid his way. Writing down he had been feeling better, just tired, the chimera tried to sit straight. Loba instructing him to lift up his shirt, the early adult did so. Thorough examination done over the course of half an hour, a surprising wave of words had come his way in full force.


"Enough of the poison has left your system now that you are no longer in danger," Loba said in a serious tone. "You're well enough to go back to work starting tomorrow." As she said such, she looked into the patient's eyes. "But, please don't push yourself too hard, and continue to take your medication as instructed." A smile as sweet as sugar grew on her face. "I'll let Her Majesty know."


Alerted he could go back to work, the soldier bowed a thank you. Placing his hands in front of him, the soldier signed for the jackal to take care on private display. But, he swore he could see her shake her head when he had let the words out through his finger tips.


"You take care of yourself too, honey," Loba responded to his wordless communication. "Enjoy your last day of vacation."


Jackal soon exiting the area, the panda chimera soon tagged himself into the ring. Yínlóng wearing a nice red suit, the soldier could not help but smile. What was with the sudden fancy get up? He was looking pretty handsome today. But, what awaited him was surprises aplenty.


"Siorc, boss wants me to go mountain climbing today," Yínlóng said, words slow. "She told me, 'Yínlóng, methinks you're not in shape again. Why not go mountain climbing with your friend.' I hope that's alright with you." He folded his hand into a pleading position for a moment. "Oh, right. The guard said he wasn't coming today. Let's have some nice boy time alone together."


Hearing such, the hyena tilted his head off towards the ceiling. Yínlóng's boss wanted him to go mountain climbing? He did not know why, but something about that did not feel right. But, he supposed he was thinking too much. Maybe the guard had been hired by another client that needed urgent attention. As his thoughts wandered, however, the panda chimera spoke up again.


"There's also going to be a show tonight at Liyue Harbor," Yínlóng added. "Want to come? It's an opera with some Wushu Dancing."


Hearing such, the hyena nodded. Did the guard convince someone in Liyue Harbor to allow him to join in on the opera? Being friends with very important people sure opened up the possibility for many collaborations out there. Maybe watching the opera with the lion dancing show wouldn't be a bad idea.


Mountain hike about ready to begin, the panda chimera's elbow and his had been linked together. Leaving the wharf behind, a gentle walk across nature soon took place. Spotting more owl statues gathering around the area of multiple pedestals, a wave of fascination flowed through the soldier.


Seeing flying carp as the panda and he had begun ascending upward. Fish soaring along with them, the soldier could not help but feel a heavy sense of longing. He would need to come back here in the future to further explore the phenomena hidden throughout.


Climbing the mountain further, the soldier turned his attention towards the owl statues littered throughout. Some glowing some not, the hyena's eyes practically had stars in them. This region was beyond mesmerizing. If he were a talker, he would have no words right now, for sure.


Panda chimera asking him if he wanted him to take some pictures, the soldier nodded. Take photos of all the things around? Absolutely, positively. Panda granting his request, multiple photos had been taken as their slow journey upon the mountains soon continued.


Eventually reaching the top of the mountain, the panda chimera seated himself upon the peak. Tea desserts taken out, a question regarding whether he wanted any had come his way. Accepting the offer, the two chowed down, for a moment. More photos snapped, the next part of the quest was upon them.


Party of two readying to go on a long, quiet walk towards Jademouth, the descend back towards the ground had begun to take shape. Moving slowly through Mt. Liameng and so on, the early adult absorbed all the nature into his very being. Her Majesty should station him here instead of Snezhnaya.


As the stroll continued, the soldier could not help but wonder. When his father was still alive, had he ever come to Chenyu Vale? If he were still alive, he wish he could inquire about his various trips around the world as a historian. Perhaps, just maybe, he could ask the tall brunette about it someday.


Spotting a teapot pouring itself its own tea, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Had he seen this already recently? How unusual. Did this teapot just pour its liquid into the cup on an indefinite loop? This region had to have been enchanted in some way, for sure.


Moving forward for awhile, a pool of golden carps swimming graced the chimera's damaged field of heterochromatic vision. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder once more. Could such fish have been the god of this place? While he did not think that was true, he knew it was possible.


Walking for hours on end, evening soon arrived. Panda chimera informing him it was time to return to Liyue Harbor, a lengthy walk back soon took place. Generic nobody waiting at the area's entrance with the raft ready, Qingce Village had soon been returned to.


Bishui Plains walked through, and Dihua Marsh skipped over, the party of two kept heading south. Guili Plains passed through as well, the soldier prepared himself. It was now the final countdown of his vacation. As he thought such, he swore he could hear epic guitar music playing in the distance.


Soon reaching the Wharf, a crowd soon formed near the stage. Seeing the funeral parlor director up on stage with a microphone, the early adult could feel sweat pour down his back. Why we she up on stage? Was she trying to sell her funeral services to everyone? This performance was about to have a departing audience any second now.


"One client, two clients, three clients," the funeral parlor director said as she tapped the microphone. But a crowd of people booing took over. "Oya? Tough crowd." But, she soon got serious.


Funeral parlor director dropping out a ton of rapped out rhymes one after another, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. He never thought he'd live to see the day of the owner of the funeral parlor rapping it up. But, he supposed he had seen far wilder events in his lifetime thus far.


Guitarist strumming away as the rap session soon continued, the soldier blinked. This guitarist solo, it felt a little too fast of a beat for the poetry being whipped out. But, he knew he could not say anything. She had worked very hard on these lyrics, and the musician worked very hard on her guitar solo. He needed to keep his thoughts inside.


Rap performance soon coming to an end, the next part of the show soon began. Group of drummers getting on stage alongside multiple people holding large lions over their heads, a synchronized dance of beauty overtook the stage. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but feel a heavy wave of fascination. So, this was wushu dancing? Absolutely beautiful. He would watch it again if he ever could, in the future.


Wushu dance coming to an end, an intermission soon took over, for a moment. Break lasting for about fifteen minutes, the opera singer soon came on stage. Stage all set and ready, everyone's eyes were soon glued onto the performance played out for hundreds to see.


Opera singer weaving a tale about a crane who wanted to marry a human, but couldn't, so she drank an elixir to appear as one, the early adult blinked. Such tale sounded familiar. Hadn't that been one of the legends his father had investigated back during his stolen childhood? He knew he had heard it somewhere before.


Play soon reaching its overture, the chimera burst into an eruptive clap. What an absolutely beautiful, and moving play. The opera singer had outdone herself in presentation. He had hoped, one day, when Yínlóng were to become a part of the troupe, he would be able to put on such a spectacular show, too. Crowd soon clearing out, he soon felt a tug on his uniform jacket.


"I have something for you," Yínlóng said, words slow. "Come to the tea house?"


Yínlóng guiding him, a small plate of Jade Parcels waited for him upon the table. Seeing such, the soldier tilted his head. Did the panda chimera make these? Tall brunette seated in his usual spot, as well, confusion continued to loop on repeat. Why wasn't he at the performance today? But, he supposed he had his own busy work to attend to.


"You look well, Mr. Siorc," the tall brunette said as he sipped tea. But, Yínlóng soon tapped himself into the ring.


"I wanted to surprise you with this," Yínlóng said, wiggling back and worth slowly. "I know Jade Parcels aren't the same as Dim Sum, but I felt bad the other day when you couldn't eat any." A small frown appeared on his face. "I know they're not quite the same as Dim Sum, but I promise I'll learn to make them next time!"


Jade Parcels staring back at him, the early adult grabbed ahold of the chopsticks in front of him. First Jade Parcel in between them, the chimera readied to take the first bite. Not tasting any jade in his throat as he swallowed, the hyena burst into tears. Everything tasted normal. The poison mineral within his throat was no more.


Continuing to eat the food in front of him, the tears kept flowing. Was this was food tasted like? He had nearly forgotten since the curse had overtook him. Finishing the last bit of his meal, the early adult stood up from the chair. It was time to return to Snezhnaya. Vacation was over, work would soon return to him. Turning towards the panda chimera he readied to bid him farewell, for the time being.


"Thank you for the Jade Parcels, sir, they were delicious," the chimera said, bowing. "I had fun spending time with you on vacation." As he said such, he took out his teleport waypoint proxy orb. "Take care of yourself."


Seeing Siorc take out that fancy orb gadget again, Yínlóng's panda ears drooped a smidgeon. He was leaving already? But, he knew the life of the Fatui was quite the busy one. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to tell him before he left he wanted to spend time with him again, in the future.


"I had fun spending time with you, too," Yínlóng said, words getting slower. "See you soon." Waving, he let out one final set of words. "Let's spend some boy time alone again in the future!"


Waving back, the chimera opened up the proxy orb into map form. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the soldier closed his eyes. Reaching the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking, a wave of tiredness immediately overtook the hyena. Letting out a yawn, the soldier stepped towards his uniform drawers.


Uniform removed, the chimera soon took off his weaponized hairpins and earrings, as well. Everything put away, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, the early adult closed his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought swam through the soldier's fading human brain.


He would soon be poison free.

 

[Palamon]

27. Meropide Odd Jobs: Leviathans and Sea Beasts

"Repay the fortress? Okay, what?
Even I am unsure why this has been given to me.
Please, explain?
Am I hearing things?
Your Majesty, are you asking


This of me?
How could this be?
Everything is making


Far little sense.
Obviously, I will do it, but what am I
Repaying, exactly? For
The surgery?
Right. I suppose that's it.
Everything makes very little
Sense to me.
Sense is dead.


But, I don't have a choice really.
Yes, repay the fortress.


Well, suppose I do
Owe them for saving me.
Right. I owe them. I
Know that, really.
I know that's how it is.
Now, working here, this
Gives me some fear, honestly.


This is a prison.
Here, criminals are always
Ever and always
Roaming. Well, I guess they will not harm me.
Everyone down here


Will apparently rebirth, or something.
How, I do not know.
Yet, I am sure I'll learn.


To be honest, I don't know
Or, rather, I would not like to learn.


But, I am sure I will
Even if I am uninterested.


How does this rebirth
Occur? Who even knows it is
Nothing I will
Ever get to witness, I am
Sure. I'm quite certain
That I will be helping


In the fortress behind the scenes.


Unless I am mistaken. I am
Not able to figure out Her Majesty's
Dubious lines of thinking.
Everything makes far little sense.
Really, it's just best to
Stop thinking about it and do as I'm
Told. There's nothing to question,
And there are absolutely
No answers. She just wants me to
Do them favors.


Be open to everything. That is the
Ultimate key.
Take work for


The Fortress? Sure, fine.
Hamper everything on me.
I'm sure I have disappointed her
Since the poisoning incident.


For now, it all begins again
Everything restarts
Everything restarts.
Likely, this is just the beginning of
Something else she wants from me.


Likely, this is just the beginning of
Intricate odd jobs awaiting me. I
Know that's how it is,
Especially considering how my routine


Is dying, lately.
There is nothing to predict.


So, I must be ready for everything.
Here in this cold breeze.
Obviously I won't be training
Ultimately, it's all the
Long list of odd jobs, so
Down the list I go.


How long is it?
Ah, how should I know?
Very long. I bet
Everything has begun to pile up. Everything


Has begun to trail down longer.
After all, I don't know how long it's been.
Perhaps days?
Perhaps weeks?
Everything blurs together,
Nothing is a clear answer.
Even so, I must remain
Diligent and loyal.


Every order, I must buckle down
And focus now that I am beginning to
Recover. I'm healing.
Likely, it will all be normal soon,
I will be jade free.
Everything will be back to normal soon, the
Roots will die shortly.


It's all just pent up jobs,
Nothing that wasn't planned,
So let's go, onwards
To the fortress.
Each and everything they tell me
All of it will be
Done. Everything.


Of course, everything.
For, I have no choice.


All will be done.


Right, left, front and center.
Everything. All that they ask.
Close a valve?
On it. Remove any
Viscous monster? On it.
Even dealing with
Rather dangerous criminals,
Yes, I will do it.


Everything. All of it. Put on a
Xenial smile. And
Cross paths with the
Underground world.
Really, I have no choice,
So do as
I am told,
Or suffer deadly consequences.
Now, off I go. Work resumes."





Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult life. The cycle was a pair of future goggles that only showed the worst possible outcome. But, the night before him would crack the and pave a pathway towards safety. The pattern had gone temporary dormant, dial ticking slowly back.


Before him had been a field of calendulas. The flowers were bright yellow, like a dandelion that had just sprouted its buds. Seeing such plants, the hyena could not help but wonder. What was he about to witness in the dream world today? The soldier did not know, but he knew he had to proceed with caution.


However, such had not been the end of the sights before him. Off in the distance had been a peculiar looking tree with bright red leaves. Wooden house up above it, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Had he been taken to Sumeru? Treehouses only existed in such area.


Walking through the flower fields, the soldier could not help but wonder. The dream world, why had it taken him to the Nation of Wisdom? He had hardly come to such region enough for it to stick deeply in his memory. But, he supposed, the world of nature always rooted itself the deepest within him.


Moving right along, the early adult could feel a wave of doom loom over him. Any minute now, and something terrifying would happen within the not reality before him. Flower field only beginning to stretch further and deeper, the soldier kept moving right along. Caution was mandatory.


Treehouse quite far off, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Was no one here? The dream world had been so quiet, almost too quiet. But, he knew he had to keep on walking. He did not know why, but he could feel the tree up ahead calling out to him. Calendulas engulfing him, the pathway only got shorter with every dream second.


Possible monster abode's distance closing in, the hyena blinked. Was it just him, or had the dream world been warm? But, the hyena shook his head. There was no way that could have been possible under any circumstance. He was not awake. Feeling temperature was simply not possible. But, such had not been the only feeling puzzling him.


Feeling an odd wave of peace flow through him, the early adult shook his head. Maybe it was the medication doing its work while he slept. He was overthinking this, for sure, that had to have been it. Deciding such had to have been the case, the chimera had begun to walk faster.


Speed walking for two dream hours on end, the treehouse had eventually been reached. Spotting a paper invitation floating on the dream wind, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Was someone trying to pass out invites to some sort of party? Throwing it on the air was not the way to go about such, for sure. Voice soon calling out to him, the hyena kept two ears open.


"Come on up, dear," the voice said. "Come home."


Hearing such, puzzle pieces fell down upon the floor. Come home? He had never, in all his life, lived in a treehouse. But, he supposed the subconscious world designated this area his home, at least for today. Voice enchanting him, the chimera climbed upward upon the wooden ladder. Keeping himself on high alert, the hyena prepared himself for the chance of a trap awaiting him at any given dream second.


Reaching the top after about two dream minutes, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. The treehouse was empty. Was this really his home? But, as he stepped inside, a person had been sitting down upon the wooden floor, waiting for him as if they had been waiting for years.


Aunty Dote seated in the center of the treehouse in an Akademiya uniform, a laurel sat in the palms of their hands. Seeing such, the soldier wondered. Was she waiting for him here? Warm smile on her face, the soldier gave the lady that existed nowhere in reality eye contact.


"Sorry I'm so far away today," Aunty Dote said in an apologetic tone. "There is less for me to heal."


Aunty Dote stating there had been less for them to heal, the soldier gazed at her, for a moment. Just how much longer would they have together within this subconscious space? But, he soon shook his head. No matter how much time remained within, he knew he wouldn't remember her anyway once she left. Medicine manifestation looking ready to speak once more, he kept his eyes on her.


"Have a seat," Aunty Dote said in a warm tone. "And, don't worry one little bit about those monsters. As long as I'm here, nothing can hurt you."


Seating himself, the dream setting around him had begun to change a smidgeon. Daises with smiling faces appearing beside him, he had soon been informed they wanted to keep him company. Flowers gently caressing him as he sat, a wave of warmness flowed through him. Why couldn't every dream be like this?


Laurel soon placed upon his head after about a dream hour, Aunty Dote's warm face had soon grown somber. Seeing such, a slight wave of uncertainty flowed through the chimera. Why was she wearing that look? Had something been disturbing her? He knew he would need to ask, if such were the case. But, the other party soon acted first.


"Have I been doing a good job?" Aunty Dote asked in an uncertain voice.


Hearing such layer of uncertainty, the chimera blinked. Why was she doubting herself? She had been doing her job of healing him quite well. But, he supposed anyone would have a hit to their confidence every once in awhile. Giving her a nod, he had soon been brought into a warm embrace.


"It's time for you to go," Aunty Dote said. "But, Aunty Dote will see you next time." As they said such, they ended the embrace, waving farewell.


Waving goodbye in tandem, the soldier exited the treehouse. Walking back towards the way he came, the dream world around him had begun to crumble. Reality ready to call him back in within a moment's notice, the soldier let out a long, tired sigh. Time had run out.


It was time to wake up.


***


"I think, that I have begun to heal


A little faster now. Or,
Maybe I am simply mistaken.


Be that as it may, this is a good thing.
Every single piece of jade is
Going away. Vanishing.
I am no longer poisoned,
No longer in critical condition,
No longer on death's door.
It feels rather freeing
Now, all that is left for all the jade to
Get off of me.


That might still take some time,
Obviously. It will not happen overnight.


However, it really might be happening faster.
Even if it does not look like such is the case.
After all, I am now stable enough to return to work.
Looks like more than half of it is


All gone.


Looks like these will be the last few days
I will be stricken with this jade.
Time to celebrate my freedom from
This terrible mineral.
Less I have to deal with it, the better.
Every second is one second closer


For it to all fade
Away. Each bit,
So, today, is another workday,
Today is the reversal back to normalcy.
Even though I am still
Rather tired, I have no choice in the matter. It's


Now or never. It's now
Or never. It's time for the
Workday to begin. I am ready."


Upon waking up the next morning, a heavy wave of tiredness flowed through the soldier. He did not know why, but he had felt far more tired than usual today. Remaining in the cold, hard bed for minutes on end, the hyena could feel himself about to doze off once more. But, the chimera immediately snapped himself out of it. He has no choice but to remove himself from his bed. Forcing himself out from underneath the covers, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


Stepping onto the cold, hard ground below him, the early adult stared at his legs, for a moment. Left leg entirely free of jade except for his foot, the hyena let out a fatigued sigh. Healing would still take quite awhile, it would seem. Knowing he could not halt himself any further, the chimera walked towards his uniform drawers.


Gazing at the prescription bottle up on the top of his uniform drawers, the chimera could not help but wonder. Why were these tiny little pills making him so tired? But, the early adult threw such thought away. It was merely a side effect of them doing their job. Unscrewing the cap, the chimera swallowed the drugs as per instruction.


As the hyena's uniform glued itself into place, the questions continued to roll the dice inside him. Just how much longer would he be covered in jade? He would like to be jade free. But, as he thought such, the early adult's head slumped downward. Sound cutting out, the young soldier closed his eyes.


Opening his eyes once more, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, trying to fall asleep again? He has to get ready for work. If he were caught dozing off on the job, he would in serious trouble, guaranteed. He needed to wake himself up, full stop, before time were to run out.


Slapping his cheeks, the hyena removed the cover off his hairpin and earring box. Clicking the weaponized jewelry and accessory into place, matching roses adorned his hair and ears. Taking a deep breath, the soldier hoped his prized possessions would give him the push he needed to gain his first wind for the day.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier stared down at the orb below him. Would he even need to bring such a thing with him today? He hardly had any energy to battle. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. He knew, if he were to leave such object behind, he would be a shell of himself.


Gloves slapped over his currently jade hands, the soldier let out another tired sigh. Soon, the time would come to retire such garments. Could such moment come a little faster? His hands, how much longer would they be covered in minerals? But, he knew he had to remain patient. The time would come before he knew it, for sure.


Heelless shoes on, the chimera bit into flavorless rations. Not a single bit of jade tasted, tears streamed down the soldier's face. Food had been completely normal again. Such suffering was finally gone forevermore. Finishing his only meal of the day, the early adult adjusted his glasses. Everything in order, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots marched onward inexorably, the early adult turned his attention towards the door. It was time to put himself into work mode. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the work mode switch flipped itself upward. It was time for his first day back on the job to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent started to say, but his words soon changed course. "Soldier, are you alright? You look pale. Do you need your time off extended?" A weak soldier was a useless soldier.


Hearing the Agent's suggestion, the chimera's heart pounded like a hammer hitting a nail, the hyena shook in place. Extend his vacation? There was no way that could possible be allowed. He had to return to work today, Or Her Majesty would kill him, for sure. He needed to work today, no matter what.


"No, sir," Siorc responded autonomously. "I am sorry. I am just a little tired." But, the soldier could soon feel a heavy wave of suspicion coming towards him.


"Alright, soldier. Try not to push yourself too hard," the Agent said in a slightly concerned tone of voice. But, he soon changed direction. "In any case, you will be working with the Fortress of Meropide as way to repay them for taking you in during the incident." As he said such, he placed a satchel on his subordinate's back. "Here is your supplies and uniform."


Hearing he would be heading for the Fortress of Meropide today, the hyena simply nodded. He supposed he did owe them for taking up their time in the infirmary. Placing his gloved out in front of him, the early adult waited for the gripping prison to take him away like it always had.


"Let's go, soldier," the Agent said. Arm out in front of him, he gripped the gloved limb into a light squeeze. "Tell the nurse in the infirmary if you are feeling ill." Escort towards Fontaine soon beginning, the soldier stared at the icy cold walls.


He supposed he did owe the Fortress.


An eye for an eye, as one would say.


***


"Maybe it's
About time I end this fake relationship with Gwendolyn.
You know, she's always saying men suck,
But, I never have
Ever questioned it.


I know she's right on one hand, but on
The other, lately,


I feel like she just despises me
Straight up. I dunno.


That she just doesn't wanna put up with me.
I suppose I have
Made plenty of Mora now, but still not
Enough. So, I shall continue


The charade for just a little longer,
Or just return home,


But I dunno, would
Really like my own place,
Escape the poor life with Ma and Pops.
All and all, it is time to spread my wings, I
Know I will have to leave the nest someday.


Or so the saying goes,
For what it's worth, I
Forever have somewhere to return to. But,


My savings will soon reach the requirement to get me the home I
Yearn for.


For now, best to keep on going,
And earning my
Keep. Day by day, year by year,
Even. I know it will take a while.


Right, gotta chase that dream.
Even so, Rabi also suggested I
Leave this fake relationship
As he claims
There is nothing of value for me nor Gwen.
I get what bro is saying,
Or, the point behind it, but right
Now, my mind is muddied,
Shuttered. I can't really decide.
He is right, though,
It's true. There is no value in this fake relationship.
Perhaps, I always knew that.


Well, this was never meant to be permanent.
It was always going to be a temporary
Thing. Time is ticking, and
Honestly, I think


Gwendolyn's patient is getting thinner
With me.
Every day, I think she might despise me even more.
Nah, maybe not, but I feel like that's how it is."


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, droplets plopped down upon the hyena's hair. Feeling such, the chimera turned his head upwards towards the sky. Downpour making itself known, the soldier let out a sigh. There was definitely a court case going on today.


Dragged down the mountain, as usual, the the soldier felt like a wet dog as he had been placed within the wooden vessel. Agent moving forward with gusto, the soldier kept himself still, the boat cruised forward across the increasing water levels. Oars pressing on, the chimera stared off into space.


As the human powered vessel cruised forward, the early adult kept staring off into space. Would he even be useful today? He supposed probably not. He had barely been at fifty percent. But, as his thoughts wandered, the destination had already been reached. Seeing such, the soldier flinched. They had reached the harbor already? Time was moving far faster than it should have been.


Dragged towards the stairs, the soldier had been reminded for what felt like the one septillionth time to not teleport anywhere in Fontaine. Hearing such repeated line once again, the early adult resisted the urge to bite. Not this line again. How many times was he going to hear it? He knew already. But, useful information had soon come his way.


Informed he would be heading down to the fortress upon the lift below Opera Epiclese, the hyena nodded. He supposed, such was better than cutting through Mt. Esus East and incurring the wrath of the hawk chimera. But, a surprise soon swung a punch and landed a critical hit.


Agent sifting through his pockets, gauntlets and various other gear. Subordinate informing him to make use of it while down in the underground prison, the hyena studied it, for a moment. But, as he had begun to do so, the hyena face almost went blue. Sinister, purple orbs resting in both gloves, doom loomed over the chimera. He was being asked to use delusions today? He was a goner, for sure.


Subordinate soon exiting the area, the soldier ascended the staircase. Silence looming through the area, a wave of nervousness flowed through him. Where was everyone? Why was the harbor so quiet? Had everyone been at a court case? The chimera did not know, but he could tell something was off, for sure.


Taking the glass lift as usual, the chimera's soaked feet dripped downward upon the floor. Reaching the top floor after about a minute, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Absolutely not a soul anywhere to be seen, the hyena shivered. The silence was deafening.


Pressing the Aquabus station button, the soldier waited. Nothing but the rain above him pouring down, the hyena could not help but wonder once again. Had there been a trial going on at the opera house? But, the quiet soon died as the automatic vessel soon reached its destination.


Pesky, fancy shirt wearing penguin removing himself from the boat, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Why did he have to run into this annoying family no matter where he were? How incredibly annoying. They were everywhere. Why could he avoid them? The archons were laughing at him, guaranteed. Pesky fly walking towards him, the chimera attempted with all his might to tune him out. But, his voice was far too loud for such to occur.


"Excuse me, but could you move? Your hideous face is in my way," Esquire complained. But, he soon stopped himself. "Oh, it's Mr. Stubborn. You doing good now?"


Dubbed Mr. Stubborn, the soldier rolled his eyes towards the sky. The penguins from up north were still here? How tiresome. He could never escape them anywhere, no matter how hard he were to try. Why couldn't they have gone back home to Snezhnaya already? But, he knew he had to keep such thoughts to himself. Giving him a nod, he had soon been on his way.


"Good," Esquire said. "I'll get out of your hair now, bye bye."


Pesky penguin soon leaving the premises, the soldier placed himself upon the Aquabus. Melusine greeting him saying it's been awhile since she's seen him, the hyena nodded. He supposed, it had been quite some time since he had hopped on aboard. Seating himself, the vessel cruised forward.


As the vehicle of automatic movement moved past the Poisson tunnel, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could possibly await him down in the Fortress today? The chimera did not know, but he could feel a heavy wave of uncertainty flow through him. Anything was possible, down in the world unseen.


Court of Fontaine inching closer with every second, the early adult broke out into a deep shiver. He did not know why, but he could feel a heavy wave of fear flow through him. Would he have to deal with criminals? If such were the case, he was a twig. There was no way he would be able to deal with them, in any capacity. But, his thoughts only continued to rumble.


The delusion gauntlets, would he even be able to use them? They would do him in, guaranteed. There was no way he would be able to handle using them today. But, he knew he would have no choice but to do so, if it came down to it. He had not been given any other weapon. The choice was not his.


Reaching the capital city before he even knew it, the hyena disembarked the vehicle. Rain only pouring harder as he entered the city, the early adult nearly froze in place. Just how strong had the storm been today? Court cases, how long did they go on for? But, he knew he had to stop worrying himself over such things. He had to get ready to leave towards the next Aquabus.


Knowing he had to head for the city's fourth floor, the chimera pressed onward. Citizens in the streets holding umbrellas, the big green monster reared its head. How lucky were these generic nobodies to have something to protect them from the elements. But, he knew envy would get him nowhere.


Sideways droplets coming down upon him, the green monster kept walking alongside him. Why couldn't Her Majesty ever provide him with something to keep the moisture away? But, he supposed there was no way to know ahead of time how the weather might have been in other nations.


Continuing upon the northern path, the early adult turned his attention towards the Adventure Guild's assistant. Seeing her, he could not help but wonder. Was she waterproof? But the early adult snapped himself out of it. Why was he thinking about that? He would never interact with this person under any single circumstance. He needed to tune such thoughts out.


Continuing to move onward, the soldier swore that at any given second, the sidewalk would flood. Heelless shoes soaked to the bone, the early adult tried with all his might to not allow for any splashing to occur. Such could not happen, or attention would be called to him, without a shadow of a doubt.


Moving through the western pathway, the early adult held back the urge to scream the Fontaine rain be gone chant. Was it just him, or had it been getting worse? He had to have been imagining it, for sure. Moving right along, the chimera attempted with all his might to ignore the world above him.


Moving past the rival boutique advertisements galore about rain gear roared about. Multiple customers flocking in as such had been announced, the chimera moved out of the way. Business was booming, as usual. Everything was the same as always, in the Hydro Nation of Justice.


Crowd dying out within the city, the soldier prepared himself to head for the Aquabus information station. Just a little further, and he would soon be on his way. Away from the rain, down in the underground world; no moisture to bother him. Accelerating his walking speed, street passed by.


But, an interruption soon broke the sound barriers as the nearby restaurant had been multiple feet away. Spotting multiple equipment set up out in the open, the soldier tilted his head. Was there some kind of movie being filmed here? Not spotting any kamera on display anywhere, the chimera shrugged. Maybe the local owner of the eatery was trying to put a sign up on the roof, or something.


Such, however, had been far from the truth. Spotting Gwendolyn in the corner cupping her hands around her mouth, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. Turning his head upwards, an immediate wave of shock had soon flown threw him. Why was Lonan on the roof? What was going on here? Screaming soon pushing through, the early adult remained still.


"Just jump already, idiot!" Gwendolyn shouted. "Why did you take this job? You can fly!"


Gwendolyn stating the obvious, the chimera studied the hawk chimera, for a moment. What had he just walked into? Whatever job was going on right now, it had to have been catching the attention of everywhere. Upon his back had been a specialized windglider. But, he did not know, he couldn't help but feel a wave of nervousness. What if it was defective, wouldn't such object harm him?


"Babe, who better than to test a new wind glider but me?" Lonan asked. "Kay. Coming down!" But, more shouts soon added them to the equation.


"If you fall, I'm not catching you!" Gwendolyn shouted.


Lonan landing on his feet perfectly, the early adult swore he could hear Gwendolyn click her tongue. Hearing such, the early adult could not help but feel a wave of irritation. Was she hoping he would fall and hurt himself? Why was she like this? Did she enjoy the pain and suffering?


"How disappointing, you didn't land flat on your face," Gwendolyn said in an irritated tone. "I wanted to see you humiliate yourself for everyone to see."


Hearing Gwendolyn's commentary, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. The soldier could hardly believe what he was hearing. Why would she say something like that? What a cruel thing to say. Turning towards Lonan, the soldier placed his hands out in front of him. Signing was he alright on private display, a nod had come his way.


"I'm good, bro," Lonan responded. "Are you doing better?"


Question coming his way, the soldier nodded. He supposed he had felt about fifty-fifty enough where such action had not been a lie. Small smile appearing on the hawk's face, the early adult knew it was time to leave the area. But, one last set of words had come his way.


"Cool," Lonan replied to his wordless communication. "Rabi misses you, by the way." As he said such, he moved out of the way.


Moving along towards the lower city level, the chimera could not help but wonder. Did Rabiu like him? He could not help but remember the names he had given to his health robots the last time he had encountered him an unknown time prior. But, surely, that had to have been a coincidence.


But, as the early adult kept on moving, his cheeks had been tinted a bright shade of pink. But, he snapped himself out of it. Even if such were the case, there was no way he could reciprocate his feelings. Entering into a relationship with anyone had to have been breaking Fatui protocol. His life would be over, if he were to enter any sort of partnership, guaranteed.


Throwing such thoughts away, the soldier kept heading for the aquabus information station. Why was he allowing his mind to wander like this? He needed to snap out of it. He had a mission to get to. There was no more time to allow his thoughts to race off. Work mode switch flipping upward once more, the early adult kept moving forward.


Rain finally dissipating, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. Had the court case finally been over? Sun peeking out from the clouds, the early adult shook the wetness away. It was over. He was free from the elements. Accelerating his walking speed, the information station grew ever so closer.


Stepping foot in the information station, the early adult headed towards the glass lift. But, such mechanism had not yet returned to its designated spot. Knowing it was best to remain patient, the hyena waited. But, what awaited him when the box returned was more annoying faces he did not wish to see.


Earl and the ever annoying sweater wearing penguin stepping out of the glass box, the hyena let out a groan. Why couldn't he ever escape the penguin family? No matter where he went, they were there. Was he about to meet another one while in the Fortress, as well? He wasn't about to deal with that if such turned out to be true. Shorter penguin looking ready to whine to the other one, the chimera attempted to tune him out.


"Marquis, I'm tired," Earl whined. But, as he turned his head, he soon changed his song and dance. Siorc was here? Was he doing okay now? He needed to ask him right away. "Oh, hi, Siorc!" His tone had been extremely chipper, at this moment. "Are you doing okay now?" But, his voice soon went back to sounding tired. Such paths crossing however, had soon been met with a drag from the backside.


"Don't bother him, ugly," Marquis interrupted. As he said such, he dragged him towards the door. "He's working now." Door zeroing in, however, the shorter penguin got one last laugh.


"Bye, Siorc!" Earl managed to shout out. But, his presence soon disappeared.


Earl hauled out of the area completely, the hyena blinked. He supposed he was grateful to Marquis, at this particular moment. Moving onto the glass lift, the chimera stared off into space. His final moments within the over world were about to befall him any moment now.


Moving through the city's fourth floor quickly, but assuredly, the soldier reached the second Aquabus of the day. Melusine greeting him, the early adult seated himself. Sea denizen telling him he had taken this line enough times, she won't be doing the tour, the early adult shrugged. How many times had he rode this line? He had no idea, but he supposed returning riders didn't have to hear the tour.


As the vehicle of automatic movement headed off towards Marcotte Station, a wave of unease flowed through him. What could possibly await him today down in the world underground? What sort of favor was he going to have to repay? He knew there had to have been a lot of possibilities of what was about to come.


Vessel reaching the halfway point, a wave of uncertainty flowed through him. If he had to deal with violent prisoners, would he have to fight them? There was no way he could do that. He was in no sort of shape to be able to fend off any sort of criminal, in his stony state of being.


Melusine informing him to keep his hands and feet in the vehicle at all times, the early adult remained still. Had he been moving around too much in his seat? He needed to cut that out, right this instant. Keeping himself seated, the vehicle soon arrived at its destination.


Arriving at Marcotte Station after about three minutes, the young soldier removed himself from the Aquabus. Taking a long, deep breath, the hyena walked through the area in silence. Multiple generic nobodies all around talking about a court case that just occurred, the hyena resisted the urge to snap his fingers.


Hearing a young girl talk about making her own magic troupe as he traversed further through the walkway, the chimera held back the urge to shake his head. Why would anyone ever want to join the world of fake magic tricks? But, he supposed it was not in his place to judge.


Opera house getting ever so closer, the soldier stared off towards the building up ahead. How many of Fontaine citizens witnessed the trial today? It had to have been hundreds of people all inside watching in fanfare at the sentencing of an accused. Shrugging, he moved past the large fountain.


Couple beside the fountain wishing for a child, the early adult tuned such chatter out. Whatever was happening here was absolutely no business of his. He heard nothing. Soon reaching the steps nearby, the soldier kept on heading towards the back of the area.


Long winding path in front of him, the Chief Justice of Fontaine stood at the edge of the area with his hand upon his chin. Seeing such, a chill dropped down the chimera's spine. Had he kept him waiting? He would need to apologize immediately, if so. But, no remarking of his tardiness had come his way.


"Are you ready to head down?" the Iudex asked.


Question coming the chimera's way, he soon nodded. Guided towards the glass lift, a button had soon been pressed. Lift slowly dropping towards the underground world, the early adult could feel his thoughts begin to race for multiple kilometers a minute. Glass inside cracking, the inquiries leaked themselves out.


What kind of orders would he be given today? The underground world of Fontaine, it was far different from the surface world above. He knew anything could have been possible. Cleaning gutters, dealing with prisoners; nothing had been off the table, for sure. Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself.


Lift soon reaching the bottom, the early adult stared off into space, for a moment. Goodbye, surface world. He would not see it again for quite awhile. Doors coming open, he pressed onward. His duties within the prison were about to begin right here, right now.


Huxian, Pixiu, and the Melusine nurse waiting for him beside the prison's entrance, the chimera tilted his head towards the ceiling. Why was there so many people waiting for him here? But, he supposed, the trio had to have been the ones in charge while he was here. Otters turning towards another, confusion ate their faces.


"He's here," Huxian said, monotone. He then turned his head towards the opposite direction. "What did we have to tell him again?"


"I don't know?" Pixiu said in a questioning tone. "I don't remember." But, a reminder had soon come their way.


"The Duke wants to see you," the Melusine nurse said to the hyena. "You should probably get changed first, though." But, as if eureka was his middle name, Huxian voice soon crashed at bay.


"Oh, right. I remember now," Huxian said, monotone. "We have to guide him to his room while he's working here." They then turned their back. "Follow us."


Otter duo leading the way, the early adult resisted the urge to shake his head. Huxian and Pixiu were forgetful as always. Some things never changed, he supposed. Guided towards his temporary quarters, the party of two waited outside. Removing his uniform, the early adult prepared himself.


As the chimera's Fortress Guard uniform melted onto his partially human person, a wave of unease flowed through him. Was he going to have to fight rowdy prisoners now? He was a stick ready to blow away on the wind, if so. But, he knew he had to stop worrying about it. Whatever was about to happen, would. He had no control over anything. Stepping out, questions threw themselves out once again.


"Monique, what's next again?" 'Zack' asked, tilting his head.


"We have to take him to the Duke's office?" 'Monique' responded.


"Right," 'Zack' responded, doubt evident in voice. "By the way, my name is not Zack, and hers isn't Monique."


Same speech given again as the otter duo in front of him pressed onward, the soldier followed behind in silence. Why did Huxian always repeat the line about his name not being Zack and their sister's not being Monique? Hadn't those been their prison aliases? But, he supposed it wasn't in his place to ask.


Soon reaching the Duke's office, the grizzly man had been sipping away a cup of tea. Seeing such, the chimera blinked. He certainly wasn't keeping himself busy right now. But, he kept such thoughts to himself. Moving towards the desk, his eyes were soon wandered towards the Fortress's leader.


"Siorc. Well met. Thanks for teaming up with us," the duke said with a grin on his face. "Head for the Production Zone and test the machines for us. Prisoners have been complaining they've been rusty lately."


Hearing such, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He had to do what now? Test some machinery? He didn't know why, but he couldn't help but feel a wave of disappointment. Was he about to just run thousands of errands? How incredibly pointless. Exiting the office, the soldier headed off towards the lifts within the Administration Area.


Tempering his expectations, the early adult had soon arrived at the highest level of the production zone. Guard here informing him to investigate the robots on the line first, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Why was he needed for this? Anyone could do this just fine. But, he knew he could not say such a thing. Stepping towards the area, the early adult readied for the count.


Multiple mechanical beings coming through, the early adult observed the rails, for a moment. Everything coming down at a normal rate, the chimera kept a count going in his head. More than a triple dozen clockwork meka coming down the line, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint.


Some mekas looking ready to spark up aplenty, the hyena could feel his heart begin to sink. Had there been something wrong with the mechanical beings? The production line should stop immediately. But, the buckles kept on going along the production line for minutes on end.


Alerting the guard some of the mekas had been sparking, a whistle soon overtook the area. Assembly line stopping, the soldier swore he could hear the man say something had been off with the belt. Hearing such, the hyena flinched. What was going on here?


Informed he would need to test some of the other machines around upon the top floor, the soldier steeled himself. What kind of mechanical objects would he have to inspect now? Finding a blue gear machine turning in the corner, the early adult prepared himself for the next line of business ahead of him.


Gear soon pressed, something rather peculiar had soon took place. Gear calling attention towards a wall, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. What in the world was this mechanism doing? Moving the object around, the early adult could not make sense of anything. What was this thing up to? What was he supposed to be testing?


Prison guard in the corner telling him to aim the wheel's beam towards the red siren up on the wall, the hyena blinked. He had to do what now? Pushing the beam towards the wall, the next set of instructions had come his way. Told to shoot it so it would turn blue, further bewilderment ate the hyena up like a plate of barbeque ribs.


Alert object soon glowing blue after a button press, the next order of business had soon been upon him. Told to test the speakers next, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What was he, Machine Inspector Gadget? But, he threw such complaints away. He was on the nonexistent clock right now. He mustn't complain.


Turning on the speakers, advertisements blasted themselves out into the open. Hearing such, the hyena shut the first one off immediately. Why had it been so incredibly loud? Why would anyone buy anything underground anyway? It's not like stuff from the outside world had been down here.


Testing the second speakers, even more aggravating advertisements awaited him. Speakers screaming about new flavors of Fonta, the early adult clicked his tongue. What was the point in any of these announcements? They meant absolutely nothing down here.


Third and final advertising playing, the soldier sighed. The speakers were definitely working alright. Guard praising him or his work, he soon rolled his eyes. He had done nothing spectacular enough for such praise. One final machine awaiting him upon the upper floor, the early adult took out his gauntlets.


Told to test the mechanical punching machine, the soldier's gauntlets did the talking. Delusional electricity knocking back multiple times, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. This was how he would repay the fortress? Nothing was making sense. But, he knew he had no right to complain.


Moving towards the lower floor of the Production Zone, the early adult had been guided towards a pressing machine. Informed once again it had gotten rusty, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Couldn't someone just oil the thing rather than relying on temporary hires? But, he knew he needed to keep himself quiet.


Placing his feet upon the pedals, the chimera had begun to jump downward. Machine squeaking as he had done so, the soldier's eyes twitched. Had something been broken? Nothing of immediate note sticking out to him, he kept on going, for the time being. But, thing had taken an immediate turn for the peculiar.


As the early adult kept the testing going, tentacles dropped out of the machine. Seeing such, the early adult backed six steps away. How did these get in here? Did a rogue prisoner jam them inside? They would get their sentences extended for vandalism, guaranteed, if such were the case.


Continuing to press downward, even more tentacles had come out from the devices. Limbs looking ready to squirm around, the early adult grit his teeth. Just how many of these things were in there? How did they get down here? One wasn't adding up to two, in any capacity.


Six more tendrils popping up, sparks had begun to fly within the machinery, seeing such, a wave of panic flowed through the chimera. Had the equipment broken? If he had done something to make them stop working, he was in trouble now. Zaps keeping up the pace, the program kept itself on track, despite such interruption.


Sparks flying even further, the hyena held back the urge to scream. Just how much damage had these hidden tentacles done? He was in for a world of pain if they had been broken further than the already were. But a series of screams soon cut off his thoughts, in an instant.


"What are squids doing down here?!" a worked shouted.


Six legged sea creatures coming towards him the soldier's body shook like a maraca. How did these squids get here? Where were they hiding? Creatures looking ready to pick him up and throw him out, the chimera placed the gauntlets over his currently jade hands. It was time to square off with some monsters.


Tendrils coming towards him, the early adult let out a scream. Swinging his fist, his gauntlets and the enemy soon met. Sparks popping upon the enemy, the creature flinched, for a moment. Machines responding in kind, they soon added their own sparks to the mix.


Sticky suctions looking ready to take him, the soldier trusted forward. Uppercut soon landed, the squid practically flew off towards the ceiling. Creature soon dropping off towards the ground, a roundhouse kick had been awarded to the creature. Sea denizen fading away, more soon came.


Trio of squids crawling out from underneath the machinery, the soldier placed himself into a fighting stance. Just how many of these creatures were hiding in here? Punches landed, and kicks given, he let out a shout. It was time for these six legged creatures to swim with the fishes.


Final set of squids knocked into the dirty waters down below, the machines sparked up one after another. Seeing such, the hyena let out a sigh. These creatures had to have caused major damages to everything around. Bowing an apology to the employees around, words had soon come his way.


Employee telling him to not concern himself over the damages, his next order of business had come his way. Told to head for the Abandoned Production Zone and test the machinery down there as his last order in the work areas, the soldier took the final lift to the world down below.


But, the soldier was in for a tentacle surprise.


Army of giant squids moving around the area as if they owned the place, alarm bells sounded inside the hyena's mind. Something was not right. How did these creatures get down here? It was almost as if, a word of a god determined such moment to come into being. But, the early adult was none the wiser to such.


Squid soon spotting him, the game had soon been set and match. Tendrils scooping him up, his short body had been tossed against the metallic walls with the hardest possible force imaginable. Second creature soon grabbing him, his body had been held prisoner by the tendrils, in a matter of moments.


As the squid held him hostage, the soldier's neck had been claimed as a prize. Appendages digging deeper, the hyena could feel his oxygen begin to cut off. The underwater sea denizens, why were they pressing down so tight? Air continuing to die, the early adult's head begun to spin. Everything was blurring, the world was breaking.


Chest getting tight, sparks had begun to flow upon the soldier's body, unable to scream for any reason, everything tingled. Throat only getting tighter as the seconds got faster, disgusting noises broke from the chimera's mouth. Any minute now, and he would lose consciousness.


Blinding white light soon engulfing the area, the soldier closed his eyes. Was this it? Had he been done in? But, such had been far from the truth, blurry figures appearing in the corner of his eyes, garbled echoed shouts soon overtook the lowest level of the production zone.


"Focalors condemns you!" Huxian's voice shouted.


Squids fading into the ether as quick as a snap of the fingers, the soldier had soon begun to drop downwards towards the ground. Coughing up a storm, Pixiu had soon caught him bridal style. Hacking and woofing continuing, sharp eyes had soon been on him, in an instant.


"Are you alright?" Pixiu asked.


"Do you need to go to the infirmary?" Huxian asked.


Placed down upon the ground, the soldier shook his head. A small injury or two was nothing to worry about. He needed to keep on going and check the other machinery around. But, as he turned towards the strange gear device in the corner, Huxian soon spoke up once more.


"There's more hiding inside the shafts!" Huxian shouted. "We need to kill them!" He then pointed at purple. "Purple, activate that device in the corner so the doors open!"


Moving towards the turning gear device, the soldier gazed at it, for a moment. When the doors open, more squids would be released from their hiding spots. Pixiu instructing him to turn the device towards the left, the early adult took a long deep breath. Right, turn it to the left. On it.


First door opened up, the party of three raced off towards the newly opened door. Squid on the ceiling, crawling around as if it were trying to perform a heist, it soon threw itself downward upon the ground with a loud thud. Huxian and Pixiu taking out their holy crosses, blinding lights shook the walls.


Squids letting out high pitched screams, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Did these creatures despise the light? How unusual. Were they vampires, or something? Shaking his head, he readied himself for actions. Vampires weren't real. Perhaps, just maybe, they were weak to unexpected brightness.


Second shaft opened, the trio dashed off towards the next opened door. Six legged creature jumping down, the hyena got his gloves ready. Thrusting forward for minutes on end, the creature soon met its end. Tentacles rotting away with full force, everyone moved onward to the third chamber.


But, the battle soon had become one sided. Squid's tendrils locking themselves upon Huxian's body, screams one after another had kicked into overdrive. Tendrils wrapping themselves in deep, the world stopped turning. Bleakness making itself known space cut itself off, as well.


"No! Not now!" Huxian shouted. "I won't reverse to zero here!"


Otter removing a seashell like blade from his pocket, the creature had soon been slashed to ribbons like it was no one's business. Monster becoming one with the air, heavy breaths had been taken one after another. Screaming ringing in the soldier's head, questions threw themselves out.


Hearing Huxian say he couldn't reverse to zero here, the soldier tilted his head. What did that even mean? But, he shook his head. Why was he trying to make sense of this? It probably did not mean anything. Why was he trying to make sense of something the forgetful otter said? He would forget in a second, anyway.


"Huxian, don't you remember?" Pixu asked in an extremely loud whisper. "You are not supposed to say something about the condition of our bodies within earshot of people!" But such words had been interrupted a loud noise.


"You can lecture me later," Huxian said. "Quick, we have to head through the secret passageway north!"


Running out of the area and towards the Abandoned Production Zone's exits, multiple peculiarities struck gold in the hidden mining area one after another. Hilichurls squirming around with squid bodies down below them, a wave of shock flowed through the chimera. What in the world had been going on in the confines of the Fortress? Something wasn't right here.


Hilichurls making noises that sounded like garbled speech, the early adult stared off into space. Had that wretched doctor made these monsters, or something? He knew he had a thing for tinkering with monsters. This had his name written all over it, guaranteed.


Creatures beating their chests and letting out a shout from underneath their masks, the soldier slapped on his gear, for a moment. If it's a fight these creatures wanted, a battle was what they were going to get. Everything in place, the chimera prepared himself for action.


Swinging and a hitting delusional bolts of lightning released themselves through the gloves upon him. Tendrils locked into a stun, the early adult's legs soon added themselves to the shocking mix. Zaps one after another closing in, one Squidchurl soon bit the dust.


Holy light engulfing a Squidchurl trying to run away, the early adult skid his feet upon the floor. Did these creature seriously think he would let them get away into the outside world? No way. They were going down. Pixiu cutting off the creature from the back side, the soldier's legs did the talking.


Creature thrown against the strange green crystals, the monster melted into nothing. Group of enemies running around in circles the party of three had soon cornered the remaining group. Huxian raising their cross upward, a battle cry released itself out into the open.


"With the power of the gods in me, I condemn you!" Huxian shouted at the top of his lungs.


Entire army of Squidchurls fading away one after another, the early adult's eyes grew wide. Just what powers were contained within the otter's crosses? He didn't know, but whatever was inside them had to have rivaled the powers of the Archons. One final Squidchurl ready to croak, oddly fluent speech had come everyone's way.


"It's not over!" the Squidchurl shouted as it faded away.


No more monsters awaiting, the otters soon moved themselves towards the hidden zones exit. Huxian saying it was time to eat, the soldier dragged himself behind the two. Was that really it? He couldn't help but feel there had to have been some monsters hiding elsewhere.


Soon reaching the Administrative Area, three tins of food had been grabbed. Film peeled off, the soldier could feel a wave of disgust wave through him. Had he gotten a bad meal? He had heard the welfare meals were randomized, but he never believed such chatter whenever he passed through the area for work.


Nibbling on the prison food, the early adult stared at the robot in the corner. The fortress, just what was going on down here in the underground prison? Something wasn't right. Disgusting dish travelling down his throat, the hyena broke down into tears. This prison food was rancid.


Huxian and Pixiu soon tell him they were heading home, the soldier flinched. They were going? How much time had passed? Knowing he had to report to the duke, the early adult headed off towards his office. Man flipping through a book title the Art of Negotiation, the chimera quietly tapped on his desk.


"Oh, it's you," the Duke said, words delayed a smidgeon. "You can clock out for today."


Clocking out for the day, whatever that meant, the soldier headed off towards his temporary quarters. Placing himself in his prison bed, the early adult closed his eyes. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain as the dream world dragged him back in.


Where did those squids come from?


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the chimera's life. But, the night before him would shoot the anguish with a sniper rifle from afar, bullets reloading themselves one after another. Every source of discomfort deleted, nothing stood in the hyena's way.


Before him had been a field of jasmines. They were white, and glowing against the dream sky. Seeing such flowers, the soldier could not help but wonder. Where had the dream world taken him to this time? He had never seen such plants within the mortal, waking world.


Spotting Aunty Dote in the center of the flower bed, they soon jerked their fingers towards the hyena. Following the signal, the chimera gazed at her, for a moment. Adorning a Mondstadt church goers outlift, he blinked. No matter what outfit they were in, she had always been beautiful no matter what.


"Tough day?" Aunty Dote asked.


Inquiry coming his way, the soldier nodded. Fighting squids, dealing with the unknown, he supposed that would sound rough to unsuspecting person. Warm, and gentle smile soon appearing on Aunty Dote's face, the early adult turned towards the opposite direction. Why was this nonexistent person so kind?


"Come sit down," Aunty Dote said, tapping on the ground.


Seating himself down in the flower bed, the soldier had soon been pulled into a warm embrace once again. Accepting such action, the hyena let out a sigh. Why couldn't his dreams be like this all the time? But, he knew this wouldn't last. Once he was healed, it would all end.


"You work so hard all the time," Aunty Dote said as she embraced the hyena. "You're not alone out there."


Aunty Dote soon disappearing after about two dream hours, the hyena stared off into dream space. Had that been true? He had truly not been alone? He had always felt like that he was been alone in this world, as a member of the Fatui. But, maybe they were right. Maybe he wasn't truly alone. Dream world collapsing around him, one last thought existed the land of the subconscious.


Maybe he wasn't alone.


***


"Well, things aren't going too well down here. I,
Huxian, may have a bad memory
And all, but
Things just seem very off


In the Liffey Region lately. Great. More problems for me to deal with.
Score. So many annoying issues for us to deal with.


Great. Fantastic. Amazing.
Of course, the Grand Duke
In the Fortress, as usual expects us to do something about it.
Now, this was fine yesterday. I
Guess I did not mind dealing with those squids. No big deal. But,


Of course, he expects more
Now. Thought he hired purple to do all that?


Well, no matter.
Huxian and Pixiu to the rescue, I guess.
Yes, those are our names. Not Zack, not Monique.


I hardly remember who named us those when we reversed back to zero last time,
So I will continue to reject my current life's name.


Ah, well. It is what it is. I will
Likely forget all this again, anyway. Pixiu will
Likely forget all this,


Too. Our memories
Have begun to get only worse.
I suppose were are eroding.
So, who knows


How much time we have left
Ah, I do not know, I'd rather not think about it.
Perhaps, this demand will be the last one for awhile.
Perhaps, this demand will be the last one for awhile.
Eh, Pixiu, what do you mean I just said that?
No, I didn't. Well, maybe
I did. I already do
Not remember. Eh,
Guess I repeat myself constantly.


Sometimes, I just
Open my mouth and say the same things.
Meh. I am aware. I know.
Every day, I repeat myself. At
This point, I
Hardly have control over my depleting memory.
I am hundreds of years old, despite my appearance.
No matter how many times I reset back to zero, I don't
Get any different, appearance wise once


I reverse back towards my adult body.
So, it is


What is is. I quite
Rather just ride the wave
Or reverse again.
No. Don't say that.
Get on with it. I'm far from that point yet."


Waking up the next morning, the Meropide nurse had been in the room with him. Saying something along the lines of Humans make the most interesting faces when they sleep, the early adult flinched. Was she watching him sleep? This nurse was quite weird. But, a reminder had soon raced his way.


"Make sure to take your medication," the Melusine nurse reminded him.


Prescription bottle handed to him, he blinked. Right. His medicine, that's why she was here. Removing his dosage for the day, the hyena swallowed the cold, hard capsules. Holding back the urge to shed tears, the soldier attempted to put on a brave face. How much longer would he have to take these? He longed for freedom from these capsules.


Melusine nurse soon leaving, the early adult stared off towards the wall. The jade, how much of it had been gone at this point? Surely, most of it had to have chipped away. But, as he had been lost in thought, small footsteps soon entered in the room. Turning his head towards the noise, a strange visitor awaited him.


Short child with pitch black hands staring at him from the other side of the room, the hyena tilted his head. Why in the world was there a child inside this prison? Had he been here to visit his mother? Were people allowed to accept visitors here? That did not sound like a custom down here. But, a warning soon brought him back to reality.


"You ought to stop what you're doing," the black handed child warned. "It's dangerous here."


Shaking his head, the soldier exited the sleeping quarters. This kid, who did he think he was telling him to stop what he was doing? He was on the job right now. He didn't have to listen to him to some child who knew next to nothing about the world. Running towards the administrative area, the warning went in one ear, out the other.


Reaching the Duke's office, the man slapped his papers down on his desk for a moment. Eyes soon on him, the soldier returned eye contact. What kind of job would await him today? Whatever orders he were to receive, he needed to be ready for anything. Duke looking ready to speak, he steeled himself.


"You're here. I'm gonna need you to head out underwater today," the Duke said. "Something's been going on out there." As he said such, his hand moved up and down. "Zack and Monique should be waiting for you out there."


Hearing his orders, a bundle of nerves wrapped coils around the hyena. What was going on in the ocean bed? Whatever could be going on, he knew he needed to hurry. Removing his diving equipment from his satchel, the soldier's fat, blubbery suit soon devoured him. Eyes soon on him, his next instructions bounced towards him.


"Go through the secret passageway," the Duke said. "Be careful out there."


Nodding, the soldier ran through the dormitory area. Moving through the one of the passages, a mossy room soon awaited the chimera. Ascending the ladder, the early adult gulped. What could possibly be awaiting him out there? Whatever it was, he knew he needed to proceed with caution. Opening the valve, the sea soon awaited him.


But what awaited him in the ocean bed was terror aplenty. Rancid scent in the water, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Sea monsters everywhere dropping down their toxic ink, the early adult grit his teeth. What was happening? But, as he had begun to get lost in thought, Huxian and Pixiu swam by in otter form.


"Purple. Go solve the puzzles and find secret caves!" Huxian shouted. "Leave the fights to us!"


Demands coming his way, the soldier's jaw dropped open. Had Huxian remembered his job for a change? Was the sky falling? He supposed he could leave the fights to them, for the time being. Having his diving suit thrust him towards the northeast, the first puzzle dropped itself down with an iron fist.


Pressing a button, strange balls of puff appeared out of nowhere. Banner across the sky reading, destroy the puffballs within the time limit, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. He had to do what now? Timer ticking past fifteen seconds, he let out a shout. Why was there so little time? There was no way to do this.


Timer reaching zero quickly, the mission soon failed before he could process it. Eyes twitching, the soldier let out a shout. How in the world was he supposed to do this? Had hardly had any time. But, he knew he had to try harder, no matter what. Letting out a scream, he threw down a jellyfish explosive.


Fruits exploding one after another within the time limit, the chimera let out a sigh. The pressure was on. Time was wearing thin. Having his diving suit thrust him forward once more, another pufferball puzzle awaited him. But, a rancid scent soon overtook the area as he pressed the button.


Banner informing him to destroy the balls of poison, the hyena flinched. He had to do what now? Destroy balls of poison? That didn't sound right. But, he knew he had to act fast. There was no time to think about these things. He had to get rid of them right here, right now.


Balls of toxins destroyed within twenty seconds, the soldier kept going. But, what awaited him the further in he got, even more mysteries arose. Message on his wrist telling him to oil the machines, a bucket of lubricant dropped down from the sky. Seeing such, the soldier flinched. Where in the world did that come from? It was almost as if such convenience had been created to push a story along.


Catching the oil, a rag soon dropped down from the sky. It was raining materials, hallelujah. Rubbing the lubricants upon the machine, the early adult swore it had made a ton of clicking noises. Hearing such, the chimera backed away. Where was it going? Gear machine heading upward, the hyena moved onward towards the next area.


Next mechanical object oiled up, the hyena let out a sigh. Was this really a puzzle? Maybe Huxian had forgotten what that word truly meant. But, as he finished up the oiling session, something of utter terror soon came behind him. Creature screeching, the early adult turned around to face it.


Sea monster with eight tentacles stretched out, the chimera's eyes opened wide. This creature, its tendrils had swords in them. Creature flipping itself towards its behind, ink fired in the hole. Everything had soon gone black. Blade pressing into his diving suit, the hyena froze in place.


Cold, black world in front of him, the early adult let out a scream. The world of ink was blinding, freezing, rancid. Attempting to shake it off, the land of nothing took over. Eight sword style carving through him, the fight remained in favor of the enemy for minutes on end.


Soon removed from the ink world, the hyena's palms shook. How was he supposed to beat this thing? It had far more power than he. But, pressed down upon the shield button upon his diving gear. He couldn't surrender here. He knew he had to at least to try fighting back.


Defensive attacks doing absolutely nothing, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Why wasn't it working? Trying once again, nothing happened. Cycle continuing, the hyena let out a grunt. Was this enemy immune to the underwater attacks? If such were the case, he was done for.


Pressing the jellyfish button, the hyena aimed the explosive towards the enemy. Surely, this had to have been the one that would work. Taking a deep breath, the soldier let the head denotate itself. Praying to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship for the attack to work, false hope clung to his coattails.


But, luck and the Archons were not on his side. Sea creature remaining strong, the chimera let out a grunt. Why was this monster still alive and kicking? Just how many immunities did it have to outside forces? He needed to try everything possible, no matter what.


Aquatic blade at his side, the soldier let out a battle cry. Such attempt had been an even worse failure, however. Creature eating the attack right up, a torrent of ink soon overtook the area. Nothing working out, the chimera let his shouts be sent upwards towards the surface above. None of his attacks were working? How ridiculous.


Blinding light engulfing the area, the hyena closed his eyes. Monster letting out a scream, the rancid air dissipated. Opening his eyes once more, the soldier turned his head towards the racket. Pixiu floating upon the sea bed with a tired look on her face, the chimera broke out into a sweat. Had she overdone herself? She hardly had to push herself so hard over this.


"Leave the monsters to us. Your glove thing won't be able to do anything to these monsters around here," Pixiu said, voice tired. "Go stake out the caves."


Nodding, the early adult headed off towards the first cave. But, what awaited him was a peculiar sight to behold. Bowl headed jellyfish adorning every adorning every single color of the rainbow, the early adult tilted his head. What in the world were these things? Whatever they were, something had felt incredibly off about them, for sure.


Creatures swimming towards him, the early adult dropped down the stingy head of explosive doom. But, the monsters named after a liquid food placed their tiny little stingers towards them. Ball soon popping, a sea of toxins flowed through the area. Nothing doing, attack broke into pieces.


But, the soldier kept on trying. Pressing the sonar wave button, an advantage had presented itself amongst the crowd. Creatures falling one after another, iridescent jelly dropped down onto the seafloor. Seeing such, the early adult's jaw dropped open. Would he see a yellow sea sponge trying to put the liquids into a jar next?


Moving onwards towards the cave, the sea otter duo soon joined him. Multiple toxic jellies joining the party, the chimera prepared himself. Was it time for round two? If so, he was ready to aim and fire. Ready to drop down the ball to end them all, a series of screams soon interrupted his flow.


Vidame and Domini swimming right in with angry looks on their faces, the soldier let out a groan. No matter where he went, the penguins would soon follow. Why could he, just this once, not have to deal with the underwater pests? They were going to attack him any second now, and there was nothing he could do to prevent their wrath.


Seeing Ritchie Rich in his annoying suit of many expenses standing near the highly toxic jellyfish, Vidame flipped her fins upward. How dare Ritchie Rich think he can get away with this. Whenever he was around, new problems would follow. Unforgivable, he was going down this time.


Ritchie Rich floating by the jellyfish with a guilty look on his face, Domini attempted with all his might to fold his fins into a fist. This loser, how dare he bring down his toxic problems down into their home. Hadn't he had enough of ruining everything? What a freak. He was getting what's coming to him this time!


"You! How dare you bring down your little poison friends!" Vidame shouted, pointing. "You'll pay!"


"Yeah, Ritchie Rich! Say goodbye!" Domini shouted. As he said such, his chain whip was up and running.


Chain whip slapped onto his uniform, the early adult let out a growl. Did these two ever have anything better to do than blame him for every little problem that occurred down in the oceans below? Absolutely ridiculous. They should have known by now he was never responsible for any of this chaos. He needed to give them a nice little reminder once again.


"I don't know why you two always assume I'm responsible for every little inconvenience in your life," the hyena said voice low. "But, I am not. Stop blaming me for everything. Just because I am down here right now, doesn't mean you can pin the blame on me." His face was dark, hairs about to split. "Work on your own problems instead of turning me into your little harbinger of all things evil."


"Fuggedabout it!" Vidame shouted. "Domini, drop your chain whip."


"Whatever!" Domini screamed. As he said such, he aimed it at the jellyfish. "There, we killed them! Happy now?" But, a scream soon had been returned in kind. Turning his head, he grit his teeth. Ugh. The underwater idiots were here now, too? Great, this day was going swimmingly! But, his sister practically read his mind.


"Ugh, not these idiot guards who can't do their jobs!" Vidame shouted, with venom.


"The Fortress should fire these losers already!" Domini shouted.


But, as the penguins ranted and raved, a rancid scent threw the chimera for a loop. Was it just him, or did the water have a metallic scent to it, forcing himself out of the cave, utter terror awaited him. Water pipes spewing with toxins, alarm bells rung in the chimera's head. What is going on, how did this happen so quickly?


Party of five rushing to the scene, mask and drainers had been thrown everyone's way. Otters swimming off towards the right, and penguins swimming towards the left, the early adult headed off towards the pipes near the Fortress. This gas, he couldn't let it escape out into the underground prison. He had to take care of the problem before it was too late.


Noxious gases ready to cut his nostrils off, the early adult tossed the drainers into the metallic containers. These foreign toxins, they had to go before it was too late, or everything was at risk. Twisting the valves right and left, panic bubbled inside him like a sand dial.


Second round of pipes done and dealt with, the soldier had his diving suit turbo itself towards the third round, cleaner tossed down, the early adult rotated the valves. The gases had to get out, be removed, die on arrival. Twisting them faster, even worse news had soon come his way.


"Purple! Hurry to the smelting factory!" Huxian shouted. "That nurse told us the pipes have gone bad there, too!"


Hearing such, the early adult was off to the races. The poison had spread all the way into the smelting factory? This was bad. Who was doing this? This had to be stopped right now before it was too late. Reaching the entrance, something of peculiar note greeted him.


Smell of bitter almonds wafting in the air, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What was going on here? Was the person responsible here toasting nuts over a stove? How peculiar. But, what awaited him while stepping inside the factory, the chimera's entire body froze.


Samachurls with tentacled bottoms singing as they dropped toxins into the pipes, the early adult could feel himself about to become stone once again. These monsters, what were they doing? Bag with a skull on it soon deflating, a loud shout had soon released from Pixiu's throat.


"Purple, why are you sniffing the air?!" Pixiu asked in an exclamatory tone.


"Don't sniff anything!" Huxian added. "It's cyanide!"


Hearing such, the soldier swore his body was about to freeze into ice. That almondy scent, it was cyanide? Cyanide, hadn't that been a deadly gas that could kill? He whiffed it. Was he about to return to the land of being poisoned again. No, not again. Not again. He had made a mistake. He should have plugged his nose.


"Who cares?" Vidame asked. "Let Ritchie Rich die!"


"Here ye, here ye!" Domini added.


"Okay. My memory might be going, but even I know that it's not just us that are at stake of dying here," Pixiu said in a dire tone. "You could die, too! And, so could all the prisoners if this leaks out into the fortress!" As she said such, she had begun to shake. "Quick, we have to defeat these monsters now!"


Pixiu shouted she can't reset back to zero now, the hyena blinked. There it was again, that set of words. Reset to zero, what did that even mean? But there was no time to think. He had to fight right now. Dashing off towards the Squidchurl, the early adult let out a scream.


Bitter stench overtaking him, the early adult attempted with all his might to tune it out. He couldn't sniff that. He had to stop. Turn it off, not get a whiff of it. Legs round housing the Squidchurls, the early adult huffed and puffed up a storm. Was it just his imagination, or was it getting harder to breathe? But, further terrors soon awaited him.


Hearing something break from afar, the hyena's heart skipped more than six beats. Gigantic whale like serpent dropping in, everything broke. What was a leviathan doing down here? Peculiar stuff releasing from its pores, Huxian and Pixiu dashed off towards the creature.


Holy light bathing the monster deep, it had become one with nature. Everything looking ready to break, shouts had come his way. Otter duo telling him to smelt a neutralizer now, the leviathan increased the toxicity, the soldier nodded. Time was running out, he had to act fast.


Neutralizer soon made, everyone ran off towards the pipes, stoppers put in, the soldier's chest grew tight. The poison was being removed, why was it so difficult to breathe? Final pipe twisted with the neutralizer, everything reversed. Otters gazing at him, he had soon been pulled away.


Otter duo bringing him back towards the prison, everything felt tight, constricted small. Soon back in the fortress, the early adult swayed. Where had all this sudden pain come from? Surely, the noxious gases hadn't baked themselves in too deep. Falling backwards towards the ground, the hyena's eyes soon shut tight.


Cyanide and sadness.


***


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of anguish within the hyena's life. But, the night before him would continue to break such pattern. The wheel was broken; stuck on the fortune phase spot for days on end. The evening before him would continue the stroke of luck, as well.


Before him had been a field of lilies of the valley. Aunty Dote standing in the center, an apologetic look appeared on her face. Seeing such, a wave of concern flowed through him. Had something been wrong? Seeing her with such a look, he could not help but feel a wave of despair.


"I am sorry, I will be leaving soon," Aunty Dote said in a somber tone. "You won't remember me after I go."


Somber tone in her voice, the despair within the deepest trenches of his subconscious only grew deeper. She was going to leave soon? He would miss the soft dreams. Did it really have to stop? But, as if his mind was ready, Aunty Dote soon answered his internal questions.


"I know you don't want me to go," Aunty Dote said. "But, Aunty Dote has to leave eventually, or you won't get better."


Hearing such, the early adult's head sunk. Would he really not heal from this poison if she stayed? How much longer would she be here? Was tonight the last night? Inquiries facing through his mind he let out a sigh. Was this really close to the end? Healing was a quite fickle with time.


"Tomorrow is my last night," Aunty Dote said, frowning.


Hearing Aunty Dote's departure date, the soldier stared off into dream space. Tomorrow was the final night? The day after, his terrifying dreams would return. Everything would go back to normal. Continuing to gaze into the nothingness of the subconscious world in front of him, one last thought threw itself into the ring as the mortal waking world called him back in.


It was almost over now.


***


"This just doesn't make any sense.
How could I be asked to do this?
Everything makes little sense.


Be real with me right now. Please, be
Real with me.
Accept favors for the
Well behaved prisoners? Is this really happening?
Looks like this isn't a joke.


This is real.
Okay. Alright. This isn't a dream.


Everything about this makes
No sense. Not at all. I just
Don't get it. Who decided


This? Does the Fortress
Have some good behavior program?
Even if this is the case, why
Me? I am only


A temporary employee down here. Well,
Looks like I have no choice. Orders are order.
Looks like yet another annoying, thankless day awaits me."


Coming to in the infirmary, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. How did he get in here? Melusine nurse coming towards him, the early adult stood up. What happened? But, his memory failed him. Why had yesterday been such a blur? Where did this gap come from?


"I'm glad you're awake. You had a mild case of cyanide poisoning," the Melusine nurse said. "But, I took care of that for you."


Prescription bottle handed off to him, the early adult examined himself, for a moment. Only remaining jade upon his hands, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. Very little mineral remained upon him. Everything would soon return to normal. But, as the capsule travelled down the esophagus Huxian stepped in.


"Purple, when you're done, the duke would like to speak with you," Huxian said, monotone. But, a question had soon come his way.


"Zack, are you doing okay?" the Melusine nurse asked, concerned tone of voice. "You went to that factory too, right?"


"What are you talking about?" Huxian asked, tilting their head.


Huxian seeing himself out, the hyena removed himself from the infirmary, as well. Moving onward towards the Duke's office, the man's hand had been folded onto the top of his desk as if he had been watching a crybaby teenager piloting a robot in another universe. Giving him eye contact, his orders had soon come his way.


"Go do some favors for the well behaved prisoners," the duke ordered.


Hearing such, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He had to do favors for the well behaved prisoners. What was it, On Good Behavior Day? Was this some sort of holiday in the Fortress of Meropide? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Was this some kind of prank? The duke had to be pulling his leg.


Duke asking him why was he still in his office, get going the early adult dashed out of his office. Heading towards the administrative area, the hyena held back the urge to laugh. Surely, this had to have been a joke. Do favors for the well behaved prisoners. Was this some kind of joke? It had to have been. There was no way this was serious, in any capacity.


Spotting the first well behaved prisoner of the bunch, the hyena asked what kind of favor he could do for him with as many gestures as he could possibly muster. Prisoner laughing, the early adult rolled his eyes. Did this person think he was playing games with him? He was mistaken.


Prisoner informing him he wanted a tournament in the Pankration Ring, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint now. That boxing arena? That's all he wanted? How peculiar. He didn't quite understand any of this whatsoever. Giving him a nod he moved onto the next prisoner.


Next well behaved inmate asking for the same thing, the early adult rose an eyebrow. Why was this person asking for the same favor? Was this some kind of joke? Something wasn't adding up. But, he supposed everyone wanting the same thing was not a bad thing.


Multiple other inmates telling him the same song and dance, the early adult blinked. Was this real life right now? He had to have still been dreaming. Pinching himself pain flowed through him. Nope, he was most certainly awake right now. How could everyone wish for the same thing? How bizarre.


Final prisoners on good behavior also asking for the Pankration Ring tournament, the soldier moved himself towards the room in question. Informing the man in charge of everything buzzing about, the owner of the ring had been in agreement. Loud speaker announcing there will be a tournament in three hours, multiple prisoners dragged the hyena towards the upper level of the production zone.


Inmates demanding he practice with them, the early adult let out a groan. Why him? Why did he have to practice? Multiple prisoners saying he had a Dendro Vision, he was an easy little pansy, the early adult folded a fist behind his back. Did they think he was a weak twig? He would prove them wrong, triplefold.


Taking out his gloves, the practice matches begun. Prisoners evenly matched with him, multiple claimed they were going easy on him because it was all just a warm up. Hearing such, the soldier rolled his eyes. Sure, they were. They would be trembling on their feet if learned he was actually a member of the Fatui.


Three hours soon passing, the tournament was ready to fire itself up. Owner of the ring forcing him to watch, the early adult let out a tired sigh. Why did he have to oversee it, also? But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. Prisoners lining themselves up into the ring one after another, the hyena kept his eyes forward.


Multiple inmates squaring off with one another in a fair matter, the soldier blinked. Was no one trying to cheat? He didn't know why, but that felt kind of strange. These prisoners were found guilty for their crimes, since when did they follow rules? But, he soon shook his head. These were the ones on good behavior, right.


First round coming and going, multiple prisoners had advanced and been removed from the rankings one after another. Quarterfinals soon looming, confusion looped on repeat as one of the contestants dropped in. Kid with the pitch black rotting hands fighting on the field, the chimera backed three steps away. When did he get here? When did he even enter?


Pint sized child sweeping through the competition, the hyena's eyes practically bulged out of his face. This child, how was he beating grown adults more than twice his size? He did not know why, but he could feel hundreds of years of knowledge soon leak out of him in the span of a second.


Final around about to kick off, the chimera had been ready to judge. But, as he prepared to do so, the duke dashed into the scene. Seeing him, the hyena could feel a heavy wave of doom flow through him. Serious look on his face, the waves only got stronger. Something wasn't right here. Not one bit.


"Go to the Research Institute and borrow some tools from them!" the duke demanded. "We found poison in the pipes!"


Nodding, the early adult returned to the surface world almost immediately. Elevator returning him to the area behind Opera Epicelese the early adult dashed off towards the northern pathway. There had been more poisons in the air supply? Why was this happening again? This was a never ending cycle of doom.


Running towards the north, the soldier let out a scream. He had to hurry. There was no time. If he wasn't quick, everyone in the prison would suffer deadly consequences. No one deserved to have to deal with poison, not even detained criminals down below the surface of the world.


Reaching the laboratory ruins after ten minutes of extremely swift running, the soldier attempted to catch his breath. Running was a cardiovascular exercise, indeed. Spotting Rabiu and Sani in the corner, he dashed towards him, breath dying once more. Worried look on the brunette's face, the hyena prepared himself for needless questions.


"Um, uh, Siorc, are you okay?" Rabiu asked, lips quivering. "Why are you running?"


"Poison in the pipes," Sani said.


"Uh. You mean, the thing Folu went to go fix?" Rabiu asked.


"Yup," Sani responded nodding. As he said such, he scratched his closed eyelid.


Sani cutting to the chase, the soldier placed his hands in front of him. Signing he needed tools for pipes right now, Rabiu soon handed them over. Bowing a thank you, the early adult dashed back towards the passageway near the Opera House. He needed to hurry, before it was too late.


Returning to the fortress in breathtaking speed, the hyena dashed off towards the pipes. Giving everyone a neutralizer, it was off to the races. Throwing himself towards the first set of pipes, the early adult threw the anti-poison tool down. But, as he did such, a visitor dropped by.


Squid removing itself from inside the pipes, the early adult's jaw dropped open. These sneaky squids, how did they hide themselves everywhere? Creature ready to fight him, the early adult squared off with it for minutes on end. Creature eventually slain, the soldier let out a huff. Was that the last of them? Surely, this time, it had to have been.


All other six legged creatures defeated by everyone else, the Pankration Tournament had soon resumed. Black handed child declared the winner, eyes soon turned towards the hyena. Young boy demanding a match with him, the early adult pointed at himself. Him? Was this really happening right now? Attempting to say no, the kid ripped up his refusal ticket.


"Did I say you could refuse?" the young boy asked.


Refusal not an option, the hyena threw himself into the ring. As he had done so, however, a blinding light overtook the area. Peculiar Hilichurl with a cape on its back soon appearing on the battlefield in place of the child, the soldier's thoughts raced one after another. Was this real life? Nothing was adding up.


Hilichurl speaking fluently, the early adult the confusion only continued to loom over him. Slapping his gloves over his hands, the brawl was on. But, he had soon realized he had met his match. Creature outdoing him every step of the way, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the fighting ring. He was doomed from the start, for sure.


Monster vanishing after being declared the winner, the soldier blinked. Had he fallen into a daydream? Pixiu soon stepping by to tell him he was done for the day, the early adult returned to his temporary quarters. Slipping himself into the prison beds, questions threw themselves down into the dream world with him.


Why had there been a Hilichurl in the Pankration Ring?


***


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of pain within the hyena's subconscious world. But, the night before him had been a deep, and somber dreamscape filled with nothing but farewells. Somberness looming throughout, a feeling of pins and needles took the chimera for a ride.


Before him had been a bed of roses. Aunty Dote sitting in the middle, a bright red flower had been placed in the soldier's pocket. Somber look on their face, the soldier frowned in tandem. Tonight was the last night he would ever see her. This was it. The time to say goodbye.


"My job here is done," Aunty Dote whispered. "Be well."


Aunty Dote waving goodbye, the early adult broke out into tears as the final farewell broke through. Lowering himself onto his knees, his waterworks had done numbers to the flowers below him. But, as the dream seconds passed, a wave of confusion flowed through him.


Why was he crying?


***


"I am free. I


Am jade free. I am healed. No
More jade, no more pain.


Finally, I am free. The time has come. I am
Really free. This is it, forever and always, I am free. No more jade.
Everything is free from the curse.
Everything is free from the shackles."


Waking up the next morning, the soldier could hear a multitude of screams. Hearing such, confusion threw him for a loop. What was going on, why was everything so loud here? Entire room flooded up to his toes, the soldier shook. Had the window at the entrance of the Fortress cracked? Tall, purple haired Hydro Archon bodyguard soon stepping into his temporary quarters, information had soon come his way.


"We're going to the ship," the duelist said, monotone.


Champion duelist grabbing his hand, the world had begun to move faster than he could keep up with. Gloves slipping off as the dash about picked up speed, the early adult peered at his palms, for a moment, jade completely gone, he held back the urge to cheer. He could celebrate later. Now was not the time.


Reaching the huge ship, the hyena's eye practically fell out of his face. Large, leviathans about the size of a tall adult male, the chimera could feel himself to fade away. This creature. Where did it come from. Why was it so big? Creature looking ready to scream about abyssal nonsense, the early adult prepared himself.


Huxian and Pixiu soon adding themselves to the mix, the monsters soon let out a loud hiss. Firing the hole, everything had gone off the rails, in an instant. Large icicles the size of a mining cart dropping down upon the battlefield, the hyena jumped upwards towards the top of the ship.


Greatsword soon thrown his way, the early adult leaped upwards in the air. Dropping himself down towards the creature's hole, the hyena slashed with a fury. Holy light from the otter's crosses joining the mix as well, a white staircase had soon been placed near the ship of wonders.


Champion duelist shooting bullets from afar, the Duke's gauntlets added themselves into the ring. Serpentine creature showing signs of weakness, the chimera ascended the staircase. It was losing steam. It was time to end this once and for all. Blade in hand, he dropped himself down towards the enemy once more.


Seated upon the enemy's back in a matter of moments, the early adult's blade and the creature's hole shook hands with one another. Icicles attempting to release themselves, the soldier kept on slashing. This creature was going down. Enough had been enough. No more of these noxious creatures.


Bullet and cross warfare taking over for a few moments, the hyena swore he could hear the Duke tell the leviathan to have a safe trip. Creature soon a frozen block of ice, the chimera's blade was ready. The final blow, the last hurrah, the kicker. Blade tapping the ice, a shattering sound pierced through the entirety of the prison.


First serpentine monster soon slain, the pattern returned for the second round. Harpoon coming out of nowhere halfway through the fight, the sea creatures faded into the ether. No other monsters coming, the hyena puffed a sigh of relief. The threats had been removed, defeated, out of the picture.


Flooded Fortress returning to normalcy as if the water levels had not risen at any point, the soldier blinked. The problems had already fixed themselves? Self healing modules were a forced to reckoned with, for sure. Duke turning towards him, the chimera gave eye contact.


"You have repaid the Fortress in full," the Duke said.


Duke telling him to go back to the surface world, the soldier nodded. It was bet to take the offer while it was still hot, or Her Majesty would make him stay here for far longer, for sure. Otter duo telling him to take care as he headed towards the glass lift, waves had soon been exchanged with one another. But, as he returned to the surface world, two faces waited for him up above.


Diver boy and the ginger Fatui standing in place, the soldier turned towards him. Did he still have some work to do? Whatever else it was he had to do, he would get to it right away. Diver giving him nervous glances, the chimera turned towards him. No matter what he had to say, he knew he had to listen.


"The situation underwater," the diver boy stuttered out in a nervous tone. "How is it?"


Signing the situation underwater had improved, the hyena swore the diver boy put on the slightest of smiles. But, the early adult pushed such thought away. He was imagining it for sure. Ginger Fatui's mask turning towards him, an immediate demand broke through his eardrums.


"Go back to Snezhnaya, soldier," the Ginger Fatui demanded. "You're done here."


Hearing such demands, the early adult removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Orb opened up into map form, the young soldier highlighted the military barracks waypoint. Reaching the soundproof room after about ten minutes of walking, an immediate wave of tiredness flowed through him.


Letting out a deep yawn, the hyena removed his temporary uniform. Weaponized hairpins and earrings removed as well, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Waves of peace flowing through him, a smile grew on his face from ear to ear. He was jade free, forever. No more poison, no more minerals. Words repeating themselves as the dream world pulled him back in, such thoughts looped one final time as sleep took him away.


He was jade free forevermore.

 

[Palamon]

28. Ludi Harpastum's Foreign Visitors

"Looks like I am fully healed,
Unless there is still stone I
Don't see.
I guess things are going back to normal.


Huh? Wait,
Are you kidding me, Your Majesty? I have to work during Ludi Harpastum?
Really? Is this reality?
Please, tell me this is
A joke.
Surely, it has
To be. Does she not remember?
Ugh. She has to have forgotten.
Maybe she has.


Your Majesty, I am from Mondstadt.
Or, am I supposed to pretend I am the
Ultimate soldier from Snezhnaya.
Right, that's probably what she expects of


Me. I was supposed to leave
All that behind.
Just, I have to ask.
Even if that is the case, why is
She doing this to me? Why is she
Telling me to work during this holiday?
You know, I never got


To experience it. Ludi
Harpastum. Not
At all, not even once. All
The times when


It had come around, I
Stayed inside.


Now, I would never blame mother
Or father for this.
They did their best


For Hase
And I to be safe. But
I long to experience the holiday. But, I've been
Removed from Mondstadt.


Well, I guess I don't
Have a choice.
Your Majesty, This is cruel.


Don't do this to me.
Oh, who am


I kidding,


Honestly? She doesn't care,
And I need to follow along loyally.
Very loyally.
Even if it hurts, and


This pains me,
Obviously, I have no choice


Well, it is what it is
Or so, I say. I'm
Rather upset, but I
Know I'm not allowed to have an opinion.


Don't be bothered by this.
Unleash my work mode and
Remove these feelings
Inside me.
Now breathe, breathe
Get my mind out of the gutter


And start working.


Find out what has to be, turn my
Emotions off and
Stop being so
Ticked. This
Is not a holiday for me anymore, I have
Very much reached my
Adulthood in this cold breeze.
Likely, even if


I get a moment to breathe, there will be


Nothing for me to
Enjoy. Such is life. I am a
Victim of time.
Everything is constantly moving
Reaching heights


Going forward forever.
On and on and on
That's just how it is


That's how it will always
Obviously. Time doesn't


Ever flow backwards
Never has never will.
Just like it doesn't loop. I think.
Oh well, it what it is.
Your Majesty, I am ready


Make this worth my while.
Yes, it is what it is.
So, I have to do
Everything I can to
Lead to making the
Festivities safe. That's the


Ultimate goal. The
Goal for me, at least.
How she sees it.


Perhaps, we're on the same page,
Likely not.
Even so I have to do
All she says.
So it's time,
Even if I disagree.


Maybe this will be quick
And it'll be over before I
Know it.
Everything will be quick, surely.


This will be a blink and I'll miss it.
Ha, well maybe not.
I wish it were,
So all set


And done, it's time.
Send me to Mondstadt.


Quickly, swiftly.
Ultimately, though
I know there's ulterior motives.
Cannot see it as just helping. I
Know that.


Ah, well, that's how it always is.
So, it is what it is.


Perhaps this won't be an
Overtly obvious attempt to
Swoop in and take over the world, or
Something. Maybe
It is just a normal job,
But I know it's not.
Look, it is what it is.
Everything has ulterior motives in this cold breeze."


Four days have passed since the hyena went on a recovery excursion in Chenyu Vale with the panda chimera. Being deemed stable enough to resume working, a rather peculiar order had been given to the soldier. Told to work for the fortress as a way to repay them, the chimera had been given various tasks of many oddities.


Multiple jobs taking him outside the fortress to deal with rumors circulating around the prison, the soldier's journey had taken him throughout the abandoned production factory. Virus bouncing about multiple legendary sea beasts, multiple days of high octane chaos overtook the underground rebirth facility.


Completely healed on the fourth and final day, the soldier had become jade free. Last day of the prison favors taking him down towards the deepest depths of a large pirate ship, a large sea monster had been decimated into nothing. Meropide odd jobs reaching their conclusion, normalcy was ready to come back from the dead.


Normalcy would remain a corpse today.


The sound of bitter wind screamed about like a monster letting out a loud battle cry out into the open wilderness. Shouts only getting harsher as the minutes dragged onward, the wind continued to rattle the windows as everything had begun to tick faster. As the month long blizzard returned with a vengeance, hundreds of Fatui soldiers shouted their protests to the gods above.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Complaints continuing for minutes on end, the early adult added his own growl to the mix. Yet another snowstorm had invaded the permafrost north. Knowing he could not just sit here, or he would suffer deadly freezing, the young soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the soldier readied to put on his layered shirts, he stared down at his short, scarred body. No jade remaining anywhere, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. He was finally free from jade forevermore. But, he soon shook his head. The abyssal gazelles, they would definitely try something again.


But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. Why was he wasting his time thinking about them? He knew, that if they occupied his brain space, they would try something even worse. Throwing such thoughts away, the early adult slapped on his layered shirts. Winter jacket placed over his body, as well, he snapped the buttons shut.


Taking a deep breath, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Gazing at the rest of his prized jewelry within the box, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was turning his prized possessions into weapons truly what he wanted? Perhaps, just maybe, it was time to buy some new ones that weren't weaponized. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. It was already too late for that. His decision was irreversible.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena gazed down at the yellow-green orb. When will he resume training? He wants to get stronger, more powerful, a formidable soldier. Spark popping off in his brain, the thoughts repeated. He wanted to get stronger, more powerful, cause bloodshed. Destroy all his enemies in one fell swoop. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What in the world was he thinking? Bloodshed was the last thing he wanted to engage in.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. He knew that when Her Majesty wished to assign him training, she would do so. Patience was a virtue; he knew he had to keep on waiting for the time to come once more to be upon the practice battleground.


Wind slamming the window once more, soldier walked towards the barricaded pane. Gazing outside, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Snow about thirty-six centimeters, the hyena let out a sigh. At some point, it would be higher him upon the ground. So, he supposed he was grateful for training being nonexistent in the current state of time.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp onward with a fervor, the hyena turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be clearing out foreign creatures in Mondstadt to keep the region safe during Ludi Harpastum to remain on good terms with the Knights of Favonius." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Mondstadt would soon be Her Majesty's to take over. "You will also be negotiating with Dawn Winery about wine."


Siorc could feel his blood drain from his body as his orders reached his inhuman eardrums. He has to help Mondstadt during one of the most important festivals of the year? Letting out a sigh, his head slumped downward. Ludi Harpastum, he had never gotten to experience it at any point in his life. He could feel himself about to turn green.


Ludi Harpastum echoing in his head once more, the early adult head slumped further. How he wishes he could enjoy the festival. But, no, he has to work. How unfair his life could be sometimes. Her Majesty was she doing this on purpose? She should just rub salt on him at this point.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "What are you so angry about? Get over it!" There was an irritated tone in his voice.


The soldier flinched. Right, he was a soldier. He had to turn off all his emotions. He wasn't allowed to have anger flow through him, how could he forget? Taking a long deep breath, the chimera placed his hand out in front of him. He had already been an adult, anyway. He had surely aged out of the festivities by now.


"Sorry, sir," the chimera responded autonomously. Festival or not, he knew he had no choice but to work.


Arm out in front of him, the Agent soon recalled something. Hadn't his subordinate hailed from Mondstadt? Would his anger subside if he left a window of opportunity to join the festivities if he had done a decent enough job? He supposed he could allow for such window of opportunity.


"Soldier, if you do a satisfactory job, I will allow you to join the festivities," the Agent responded. As he said such, he gripped the hyena's wrist into a tight lock. "We are leaving now." Escort to Mondstadt soon beginning, the early adult stared off towards the icy cold walls.


There was no way he would get any chances to participate.


***


"Quite sure something
Utterly crazy has happened here.
Ah, no, I shouldn't say that word,
Crazy is a bad word. I don't
Know what's happening. I don't


Quite know anymore. I heard some quacking.
Unless I am mistaken?
Am I dreaming? Maybe, I
Could be. Ah, no, maybe not. I
Know I am wide awake right now.


However, something is
Especially off today.
Really, I cannot put my finger on it.
Everything just feels peculiar.


Cannot help but feel this Ludi Harpastum will be
Off the walls. Ah, no
Maybe I am just mistaken.
Even ducks can be distressed
Sometimes. Perhaps, just


Maybe, it is merely mating season.
Ah, no, perhaps not.
Couldn't be. That
Has to be during the winter.
It is not yet that time of year.
No, perhaps I really, truly am hearing things. Maybe my
Ears still have jade in them. Well, I


Guess not. I suppose my imagination has just
Unleashed itself upon me.
Now, I do not know what I will be dealing with today. I


Do not know what is in store,
Ultimately, it could be pretty much anything.
Could I be fighting ducks? I do not
Know. Could I be fighting monsters? I do not know.
Yet, I feel like it's still going to be both possibilities. Ah, no,


Quiet my thoughts. I haven't the foggiest.
Ultimately, I am about to find out,
And, whatever it might be, I have to press on.
Cannot see what's ahead of me. I am on my
Knees of the possibilities Well, not


Quite. I suppose I am exaggerating.
Unleash the beasts. I
Am going in. Whatever awaits me, I
Cannot falter. I
Know her Majesty is watching me.


But, that's a give, she's always
Observing me. She's always
Opening her eyes to watch
Me. I am never alone,


That much is a given.
Here's to another day of working with the knights.
I do not know what assisting with keeping the city
Safe will do to keep the Fatui's reputation in


Place. Don't most people find us untrustworthy? Very
Likely. I know that's how it'll
Always be. I am just a worm, as usual.
Crawling around.
Everything is jut a movement upon the


Game board. Getting closer to checkmate
Over in this cold breeze.
Now is just one step closer.
Now is just pushing such further.
Ah, well, it is what it is.


Bring it on.
Let's go, to the
Open wilderness.
Wild monsters are going down. I am ready."


Upon reaching the capital city of Mondstadt through the teleport waypoint, the early adult let out a sigh at the sights before him. City already kicking up with the festive atmosphere, the big green monster let itself out. It was festive season, and he couldn't celebrate. Why could he have been sent to work elsewhere?


But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. Orders were orders. He had no control over them. Whatever says, goes. Soon removed from the gripping prison, the Agent stepped off towards the diplomats in the corner. Rumors buzzing about for minutes on end, the chimera attempted to tune the talks out.


Diplomats discussing Natlan and how something had occurred there, the early adult could feel a wave of shock take him over. What in the world happened in the Pyro Nation of War recently? But, his thoughts had soon been cut off. Agent ordering him to get going, the soldier nodded.


Told to head off towards Knights of Favonius Headquarters, the early adult prepared himself for the most painful journey of the ages. Festive atmosphere gnawing on his ear, the hyena heaved a sigh of disappointment. Ludi Harpastum, he had never gotten to experience it, not even once.


As the early adult walked through the city streets, the hyena turned his attention away from the balloons sitting downward. The Mondstadt children, they were about to have the times of their lives, for sure. Games aplenty, fun for weeks to behold. Green monster walking right behind him, the early adult attempted with all his might to tune everything out.


Moving past multiple booths setup, the chimera tried to continue to ignore everything around him. He needed to get over it. He was on the nonexistent clock right now. He should not let the surrounding atmosphere get to him. He was an adult now. He had surely aged out of this festival anyway.


Turning his head off towards the opposite direction, the chimera held back the urge to sigh as the grocer appeared in his heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Generic woman advertising Ludi Harpastum specialties, the hyena resisted the urge to bite his hand. It was inescapable. Every single square of the city was celebrating.


Slapping his cheeks, the early adult pressed onward. He needed to let go. He was supposed to leave Mondstadt behind. He was no longer a citizen here, and would likely never be again. He should not allow himself to be bothered by working during festivities. Such had happened various times prior in other nations, for sure.


Throwing the green paint away, the early adult hook his head. He knew that, in his stolen childhood, his parents were only trying to keep him safe. He was a hyena chimera. He was an anomaly, an abnormality, different. He never questioned mother for keeping him hidden. He knew, it was for the best.


Ascending the staircase, the hyena held back the urge to sigh once more. He knew, no matter how many years were to pass, chimeras weren't fully welcomed in society. His hyena appendages were hideous, he needed to hide them; they were unsightly. Why would he be allowed to partake in festivals, anyway?


Throwing such thoughts away, the early adult kept ascending the staircase. He needed to stop dooming and glooming. Surely, not everyone found chimeras hideous. He was overthinking, for sure. He needed to focus on work. There was no time to get lost in thought.


Reaching the final step, the soldier grit his teeth. Annoying penguin knight standing outside knights headquarters, irritants entered the hyena's short body. What was the biggest thorn amongst them all doing here? If he was going to send insults his way, he was not going to let him get a single word in.


Moving towards the entrance to headquarters, the chimera could hear boots tapping upon the concrete. Hearing such, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the sky. Here comes the impatient screams. Why was this low ranking knight standing here? He should get out of here and do his job. Eyes soon darting his way, the screams began.


"You're late!" König shouted, tapping to a mysterious object on his wrist. "Could you be any slower and girlier?!"


The soldier rolled his eyes towards the sky once more. This man could have easily fought the monsters by himself instead of just standing here waiting. Not dignifying the pesky fly with a response, he soon opened the doors behind him. Escorted towards the Acting Grand Master's office, yet another annoyance soon awaited him.


Flirty librarian seated in the corner sipping tea, the hyena held back the urge to groan. Why was she in here? If she was about to drop down some pickup lines, he was going to explode. Acting Grand Master drowning in paper work in the corner, a wave of concern flowed through him. Wasn't there anyone who could help lessen her workload? But, his thoughts were immediately cut off by the aggravating penguin's voice.


"----, I brought the Fatui in," König said in a commanding tone.


"Thanks, sweetie," the librarian said, as she sipped her tea.


Hearing such word, the early adult tried with all his might to not burst out into laugher. König, a sweetie? More like a sourie. Who in their right might would call this man such a word? He was quite undeserving of such moniker. But, the hyena buried such thought deep in his head. If he were to say such, he would be insulted triple fold in return. Acting Grand Master eventually turning towards him, the chimera gave eye contact.


"Thank you for coming," the Acting Grand Master said in a tired voice. "Sorry to spring such a request on you, but there have been many strange creatures spotted around Mondstadt lately. Could you clear them out?" As she said such, she moved aside from her desk. "Your boss left a weapon here for you."


Acting Grand Master handing him the weapon, the hyena studied it, for a moment. Large, two handed golden greatsword glowing with a strange energy, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why couldn't anyone else have fought the monsters with this weapon? But, he knew he could not say such a thing.


Annoying, flirty librarian soon handing him a list of monster sightings, the early adult's eyes twitched at the names in front of him. Was it just him, or had the entire region been listed on this sheet? He knew he would not have time to go everywhere today. Spotting a notepad in the corner, the early adult pointed towards it.


Leaflet handed and feather quilled pen handed off to him, the chimera scribbled upon the paper. Writing down he would only be able to get to around half today as he had to head for Dawn Winery in the evening, the chimera returned to object back to owner. Eyes on it, words had soon reversed back towards him.


"If you have other priorities, that is fine," the Acting Grand Master responded. "Don't push yourself too hard."


Giving the Acting Grand Master a nod, the soldier exited the office. Leaving knights headquarters, the hyena sheathed the sword behind him. Removing the locations list, the chimera double checked everything. Placing his finger beside the first area stated, a wave of confusion immediately flowed through him.


Bridge near Cider Lake listed at the top of the page, the early adult rose an eyebrow. If there had already been danger so close to the city, why hadn't anyone already done something about this? Weren't the Knights the nation's first line of defense? But, he supposed everyone had been too busy with festival preparations to deal with such outside forces.


Descending the staircase, the soldier prepared himself. Just what kind of monsters were about to await him, a Hilichurl, or Slime or two? If such were the case, anyone could handle them. They did not need the Fatui forces to assist them whatsoever. Moving towards the city's exit, the battle mode switch soon flipped upward.


Moving through the city gates, the bridge was a few meters away from him. Cracking his knuckles, the hyena steeled himself. Hilichurls, come out come out wherever they are. Surely, this would be over before he knew it. But what awaited for him on the crossing was a terror to behold.


Large, bright green faced duck tall enough to tower a small building, the soldier's heart skipped two beats. How did this bird get so big, what was it eating? But, such had not been the end of the peculiarities. Creature holding a gigantic Snezhnayan machine gun underneath its wings, the chimera's heart had begun to leap.


Duck looking ready to let the weapon blow, a heavy wave of shock dropped down the soldier's spine. Why was this duck so huge? Why does it have a gun, where did it get that from? Creature's eyes soon on him, it cocked the weapon. Seeing such, the hyena could feel his soul about to fly out of his body. It was over. Machine Gun Ducky was coming for him.


"Quack!" the duck shouted.


Gun spinning and turning, hundreds of bullets had come the soldier's way. But, as it had begun afiring its laser, a child had soon been within the crossfire, seeing such, the early adult dashed onto the bridge. A young boy was within range of lethal weapons, he needed to get out of here, before he were to get hurt. Knowing he had to get his attention, the soldier spread his arms out.


Arms spread out in front of him, the hyena hopped up and down upon the bridge in front of him. Making various amount of frantic noises, eyes were soon on him. Pointing at Machine Gun Ducky, the early adult made rocket noises and stuck his tongue out, eyes closed. But, not a single sense of danger radiated from the boy as he had done so.


"Why are you pointing, Mr.?" the boy on the bridge asked. "Mr. Gun Duck is so cool!" He then pumped his hands downward. "I wanna send him onto all the people that scare the pigeons away!"


Kid saying he wished to form a partnership with Machine Gun Ducky, the hyena could hardly believe his ears. Was this boy out for blood? How terrifying. Knowing he had no choice but to defeat the creature, the chimera placed his greatsword in front of him. Taking a deep breath, he let out a scream.


"I'm sorry, young man!" Siorc screamed. As he said such, he brought the greatsword up towards the duck's legs.


Swinging the greatsword forward, the chimera aimed for the legs. But, such action had proven to be useless. Bird jumping backwards, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. This creature could dodge backwards, too? How formidable. He was about to have his work cut out for him, for sure.


Duck letting out another loud quack, the tips of its feathered wings let the magazine loose. Pellets speeding out of the gun's head, the early adult jumped right, left, front, center and back. This creature, just how many bullets did it have on it? There was no way this would be a clean or easy fight, guaranteed.


Attempting once again to aim for the feet, the soldier placed the blade beside his waist. Dashing forward, the early adult swung with full force. But, such attack never connected. Duck flying upward, the distance had become greater than he could imagine. Creature looking ready for some skyfire, the chimera gulped.


Bullet rain dropping itself downward, the hyena leaped towards every direction once again. Bridge boy in the corner cheering the bird on, the chimera grit his teeth. Which side was this kid on? He had to have been the bird's biggest fan, for sure. He should join a bird watcher's club. But, he quickly threw such thoughts away. There was no time for this nonsensical thoughts. It was go time.


Machine Gun Ducky swooping downward, the creature's beak and the hyena's face soon met. Cheeks almost immediately decimated, the soldier let out a scream. How dare this creature Give his cheeks a beating. It would pay. Greatsword back out in front of him, the soldier aimed for the torso.


Duck belly wide open, the early adult struck with a fury. Feathers going flying, the soldier kept going. This creature, it should watch where it's fighting. His face was not open fire for holes today. Feathered down cut away, a look of shock soon painted the enemy's face.


Enemy pressing a rapid fire button, its ferocious quacks had only begun to get louder. Jumping on endless repeat, the soldier attempted to send the bullets back towards their owner. But, as he had attempted to do so, a discovery let itself be known to the early adult.


Bullets made almost entirely out of water, the chimera rose an eyebrow. Had the weapon suddenly run out of steam? What was going on? Had the duck just given up? But, he knew it was best to not underestimate the enemy in front of him. There could be a secret final attack that could take him out, without a doubt. But, as he readied to bring out his defensive a game, words added themselves to the battlefield.


"Mr., why are you so afraid of Mr. Gun Duck?" the bridge boy asked. "He's not scary!"


Hearing such, the early adult turned his attention towards the battlefield. Was this kid not seeing what was in front of him? There was a huge duck the size of a building with a deadly weapon from a foreign nation. How was he not afraid? Children were such a mystery. Enemy letting out another quack, the chimera returned his focus to the fight.


Water bullets coming his way in rapid fire, the hyena placed the claymore in front of him, projectiles sent backwards towards the enemy, a pained grunt released from the bird's beak. Creature flapping in protest, the chimera prepared himself. This was it. The final countdown.


Raising his claymore, the hyena let out a loud battle cry for the entirety of Mondstadt to hear. Beak looking wide open, the soldier aimed for the talker. Blade and squawker shaking hands with one another, a blinding light soon engulfed the area and surrounding vicinity.


Enemy looking ready to throw in the towel, the soldier cracked his knuckles. This was it, the last stretch, preparing the last blow, the duck soon had been one with the ground. Blinding light soon engulfing the area once more, a surprise soon came out the other end of the whiteness.


Abyss Mage standing where the duck once was, a heavy wave of shock flowed through the hyena. The robed denizen creatures, did they have the ability to transform into other creatures? If such were the case, he was done for, for certain. Monster waving its wand, the second round of fighting soon took the stage.


But, such battle barely lasted a moment. Singular swipe of his greatsword knocking the creature out, the early adult's eyes flickered. What in the world just happened? Was this real life, or was he dreaming? Pinching himself as the robed creature disappeared, a sense of pain flowed through him. He was awake right now, without question.


Knowing it was time to move onwards upon the eastern path, the chimera exited the bridge. Pigeons flocking downward aplenty, the early adult flinched. The birds had come back already? They had acted fast. Turning back around, the soldier kept going. He had more fights to take care of. No looking back.


As the hyena had begun to head towards Windrise, loud quacks overtook the area as if they owned the place. Placing his currently human hand upon his temple, the chimera scouted the area. Ducks flying around everywhere looking ready to go in for the kill, the soldier let out a groan. What was he, the protagonist of the new hit horror film in Fontaine called The Birds? It was time to go duck hunting.


Birds dropping down upon the ground, swords in their beaks, the chimera prepared himself. These enemies were armed to the teeth. Whoever had given these creatures their weapons was definitely laughing at him from afar. Ducks charging towards him, their swords flew upon the wind.


"Quack quack, quack!" the ducks shouted, with gusto.


Excalibur coming acharging, the early adult jumped towards the left. This creature had spirit. Sword missing for many meters the soldier grabbed the weapon. It liked its blade, did it? It was time to send it back as a return gift. Sword now his, he tossed it back towards the owner.


Bird catching the weapon in it beak, the hyena's eyes opened wide. He should have known ducks were flexible creatures. Army soon joining the party, the early adult switched the position of his legs. Did these enemies think making it three versus one would outdo him? They were about to become Sweet Madame if they thought so.


Swords tossed his way once more, the early adult kept his dodges going. Blade caught in his right hand, the soldier had come up with a solution to answer them all. Placing the blade in his mouth, the soldier swore he had become a green haired pirate in another universe.


Swiping the teeth blade forward, a look of bewilderment had graced the duck's faces. Seeing such, the hyena kept going. Had they not expected their moves to be copied? What a perfect opportunity. They were going down. Fang swipes continuing, the creatures looked ready to fall flat.


Final swing soon coming, the real villain returned once more. Mages replacing the birds, the soldier let out a sigh. Was every single bird really a masked abyss denizen in disguise? How annoying. Throwing the creature's weapons back at them, they were soon out of the picture.


Further enemies circling around the pathway as Windrise neared, multiple rounds of defeats overtook the area for minutes on end. Army of mages falling, the soldier huffed and puffed. He had his work cut out for him today. Large tree within distance, the early adult's legs erupted into a sprint.


But, such dash forward had been a huge mistake. Robed denizens blocking the pathway adorning full bodied armor and large shields, the early adult backed six steps away. The enemies weren't even bothering to disguise themselves this time, he was doomed. Everything looking ready to get him, the chimera gulped. It was him versus the world.


Shielded enemies dashing towards him, the early adult let out a scream. They were all going to come at him, all at once? He was toast, outnumbered, a goner. Enemies towards the trees readying the first strike, the chimera shook with a fervor. Every centimeter and corner around him was blocked. Any second now, and he would be dust upon the wind.


Such defeat, however, never came. Shield practically as light as paper, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. These shields were so weak. He did not know whether to feel pity or to laugh, but the soldier withheld from busting a gut. He needed to focus. Making fun of the enemies would only make it worse for him, guaranteed.


First army of enemies fading into nothingness after fifteen strike, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Why were these shielded robed denizens so weak, what happened? Had they been out of strong weaponry? He didn't know, but he supposed he was relieved he wasn't in for a challenge.


But, easy street had soon switched over to hard mode. enemies shields only getting tougher, fifteen strikes had soon become fifty. Defenses getting further strengthened as the fights went on, the chimera clicked his tongue. Complacency was a disease to be avoided at all times.


Enemies beginning to counter, the hyena adjusted the direction of his blade. Perhaps, just maybe, if he aimed for the center, the fight would go back towards him. Giving it his best shot, he let out a battle cry towards the sky. Robed denizens mocking him, the world was on fire.


Shields cracking after another fifty strikes, the army soon retreated. Portals appearing out of nowhere, every single trace of the army had been as gone as the winter wind in Snezhnaya. Silence looping on repeat, the early adult removed the list from his back pocket once more.


Seeing Falcon Coast underneath, the early adult prepared himself. Was he about to see large crabs on the beach ready for a round or two? He needed to keep himself on his toes at all times, no matter what. Anything was possible. Walking onto the no longer blocked off path, a sea of questions soon raced through him.


As the hyena kept heading east, he could not help but wonder. The abyssal gazelles were the behind this sudden invasion that came out of nowhere? They had been quite absent lately. This had their names written all over it, for sure. This was their plan all along; their next big stunt.


But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. Why was he allowing himself to jump to such conclusions? There was no way they were responsible for this. He hadn't seen the two villains in a few weeks now. Perhaps, just maybe, they had grown tired of their revenge ploys.


The soldier shook his head as the coast inched ever so closer. The abyssal gazelles, give up on their revenge plan? There was absolutely no way that was the case whatsoever. They were just plotting something more extreme behind the scenes where he couldn't see them.


But, upon reaching Falcon Coast, a sight repeated itself from hundreds of meters before. Multiple duck giants stomping upon the sand running around with swords in their mouths, a heavy wave of fear flowed the soldier as he observed the area. Sea lion sisters on the scene, weapons in their hands, the early adult's heart skipped a beat as blades had come flying towards them.


Terrifying trident of fire gracing the battlefield, the hyena closed his eyes. The flames were out of sight, out of mind. Taller sea lion bringing out its diamond blade, the soldier squeezed himself into the fight. Bringing his greatsword to the mix, the chimera invited himself to the party.


Sword soon caught, the chimera tossed the weapon back towards its owner. Savon bringing down terrifying spells of fire from her magical tome the early adult flinched. The flames were close, in his face, ready to burn. Backing away, the soldier held back the urge to scream.


Eau slashing with diamonds, the hyena kept on inviting himself into the battle. Ducks looking quite weak, the soldier slashed forward. But, as he had continued to do so, heads turned towards him. Sea lion sisters giving him sharp glares, the soldier raised his hands towards the air. He had been noticed, he was about to get the shouts aplenty.


Fatui inviting himself into their battle, Eau lowered its eyes into a glare. Did this man know anything? The beach was her hunting ground. These ducks were its prey. He was not welcome here to come around and take it for himself. If he thought for even a second she would allow that, her blade would be turned towards him.


Seeing the Fatui forced into the army's stronghold adding himself to their battle, Savon huffed a breath. What were they doing here? This was their prey. He had no right to swoop in and take it from them. Maybe he wasn't as innocent as she once thought. A villain was a villain. Her sister and she should give him a reminder on how things work around here.


"Hey, you! Who said you could join us?!" Savon exclaimed, irritated. "This is our prey!" Her sister soon interjected.


"I don't know how much you know about Mondstadt, but clearly don't know that going after someone else's prey if forbidden," Eau said in a blunt tone. "Please leave. Don't interject yourselves into our game."


Knowing that if he stayed here for even a moment longer, he would become the sea lion duo's next prey, the soldier had begun running towards the beach's exit. Right, this was not his fight. He had to get out of here right away. Speeding off as fast as he possibly could, the sands were soon out of sight, out of mind.


Halting his run, the early adult caught his breath, for a moment. Running was a cardiovascular exercise, indeed. Slowing himself down back to walking speed, hundreds of questions raced through the soldier's mind as if they were all running a marathon with a golden chalice prize.


As the chimera continued upon the northern path, the inquiries ran around in circles in the hyena's fading human brain. Southeastern Mondstadt, had all of it been sea lion territory? If such had been the case, he knew he had to be careful going forward, or he would make more enemies.


Feet crunching through the grass, the questions kept piling in. Chimera territory, how did it work, exactly? Could any claim any area as their own and fight any who try to enter? He knew he should have known better than to not proceed with caution. He should have learned the rules of the other chimeras by now.


Thousand Wind Temple getting ever so closer, the hyena could not help but pondered. Could he have claimed an area as his territory if he so desired? But, the chimera immediately threw such thoughts away. Why would he do such a thing? Her Majesty would kill him if he were to claim territory on his own. This was not his world to take over.


Reaching Thousand Wind Temple after about twenty minutes of walking, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Ducks and swans wearing big brown hats holding pistols in their wings, a tumbleweed blew across the field. Creatures looking ready to fire at one another, they let out their battle cries.


"Quack!" the duck army shouted.


"Honk" the swan army shouted.


Birds firing off at one another, the early adult leaped ten steps backwards. What had he just walked into? An avian duel for territory? What in the world was going on today? Had he been transported to a world known as the wild west? He knew such wasn't the case, but he felt like it had to have been, at at the moment. Bullets flying everywhere, the young soldier dashed around the area. He needed to put a stop to this, right away.


Bullets flying everywhere, the early adult did a somersault. This duel, how could he put a stop to it fast? These creatures had to have been disturbing the peace. He couldn't allow this to continue. Spotting barrels in the corner, the hyena grabbed them. These would have to work, surely.


Barrels soon placed, the duels kept on going. But, the obstacles had soon begun to serve their many purposes. Swans ramming straight in, their honks of confusion echoed on the wind. But, such had not been enough to end the fight. Swan shaking off the attack, the duel only picked up the speed.


Obstacle failing, the soldier snapped his fingers. How did this fail him? He needed to try something else right now. Spotting crates in the corner, an invisible lightbulb popped up over his head. Rocks, surely, filling the crates with boulders would be the answer. That would stop the fight.


Booby trapped soon set, the early adult dashed off into the audience area. Birds pecking the crates, the avalanche of rocks came tumbling down. Army falling, a blinding light soon overtook the area. Mage rearing their unwanted masked heads shortly after, the hyena slapped his palm across his forehead. What was with these monster's fixation on birds? What a strange enemy group.


Spotting a prison in the corner, the early adult opened the gate. Mages looking as weak as a piece of paper, the young soldier stretched his leg back. Punting them forward, their robed bodies were soon airborne. Creatures tumbling down towards the cage, the enemies had soon been locked inside. Shouts coming his way to let them out, they had soon gone ignored.


Next order of business listed as Starsnatch Cliff, the early adult took a long, deep breath. The entirety of Mondstadt had been invaded by strange foreign visitors, indeed. Was this trail ever going to end? But, the hyena threw his complaints off a cliff. What was he doing, letting himself get tired now? He still had work to do.


But, upon reaching Starsnatch Cliff, a fight he did not wish to partake in soon swept him from underneath his feet. Large dandelion with a glowing face, large leaves that acted as its hands and feet, the early adult froze in place. He was going to have to fight a large flower? No way. There was absolutely no way he could bring harm to the world of nature.


Dandelion monster dropping down seeds of doom, the young soldier attempted with all his might to run away. This flower, it was best to let it roam free. Bringing harm to it was not on the agenda whatsoever, for any reason. Trying to dash off towards Stormbearer Mountain, the early adult readied to make a leap. Such action, however, was immediately cancelled.


Flower grabbing him his nose had soon been flicked. Thrown onto the ground, the soldier's uniform had become a pile of dirt. Abyss Mage floating on by, laughing at him, various insults had flown his way. Magical attacks aimed at him, the early adult dashed towards the monster.


Mage struck, an unfortunate miscalculation caught the dandelion monster into the mix. Flower sliced in two, the masked creature laughed manically. Plant slain, the chimera dropped down onto his knees. The flower had been slain, he was a terrible, horrible, plant murderer. How could he commit such a crime? Unforgivable.


Dandelion soon becoming an Abyss Mage, the early adult let out a sigh. Just how many of these creatures about were these magical beings in disguise? He had had quite enough of this tomfoolery. Couldn't they just fight them as they were. This had to end. The games should reach its conclusion.


But, upon reaching Stormbearer Point, an even worse state of affairs had taken over the area. Short, masked people adorning bright blue abyssal clothing, the early adult scratched his head. Had his wishes been heard for the game of transformations to stop? Masked people turning towards in, they soon curled their fingers.


"Yew wook way too stwong fow us mista," one of the robed denizens said. "Wet's pway a game!" As one of them said such, they pointed their gloved hands towards the edge of the mountainside. "If yew weach dat spawt over there within da time wimit, we'll weave!"


Hearing such, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. The enemies wanted him to do what now? Run to the end of the mountains within the time limit? Was that even a challenge? Surely, something like that would be over in less than a minute. But, he supposed he knew better than to allow himself to get complacent. But, before he could finish such thought, a pistol sounded.


"Go!" one of the robed denizens shouted, shooting a starting pistol.


Number on his wrist reading two minutes, the early adult let out a scream. He had to reach the edge of Stormbearer Point in two minutes? How would that be possible? There was no way. He was done for. He would have to fight another army guaranteed. Timer blinking past one minute and fifty five seconds, the early adult had begun running. There was no time to waste. He had to get out of here.


Sprinting as fast as his human legs could currently carry him, the hyena let out a scream. But, a new challenger had soon added itself into the mix. Robed denizen screaming watching him run is boring, higher the stakes, Anemo particles soon dropped down from the sky. Words on his wrist stating to collect the particles within the time limit, the timer reset itself.


Forced back to the starting point, the chimera let out another scream. Collect the Anemo particles and reach the destination within the time limit, did the abyss enjoy watching people crack under the pressure? Feeling wind blast through him, the early adult kept running. Time was ticking away faster, he had to keep going.


Strange obstacles soon adding themselves to the mix, the chimera jumped towards the right and left. Did those abyssal denizens just add Hilichurls targets to slow him down? How had that been fair? Changing the game as they went along, what a dirty trick. He wasn't about to let them rig this.


Dashing faster and faster, the finish line had begun to get closer with every second. Timer ticking towards the halfway point, the early adult's legs burst. He was almost there. He had to keep going. The end of the mountains would soon be upon him. He needed to win, no matter what.


Particles attempting to curve upwards towards the sky, the early adult deployed his windglider. These particles, did they have a mind of their own? Upcurrent pushing him upward, the soldier let out a loud scream. He would become the master of the particle collection, there would be no more battles today.


Timer soon hovering off towards thirty seconds, and twenty of forty particles collected, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Where did time go? Why was it going down so much faster now? He needed to pick up the pace right away. Leaping forward, three more particles had soon been in his possession.


Ten seconds coming and going, the hyena's legs twitched. There was seven particles left, he was going to lose. Brushing his legs against the grass, he flared his nostrils. Not yet, it wasn't over yet. Twenty seconds was better than none. Running at the fastest possible speed imaginable, the war against the Anemo particles kicked into full swing.


Five more particles soon collected ten seconds remained upon his wrist. Throwing himself towards the finish line, the early adult growled. He was almost there. This was the final stretch. He had to make it. Blue glowing spot out in front of him, the two final particles had soon been scooped up.


Destination soon reached as the timer reached three seconds, the early adult huffed and puffed up a storm. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed. Robed denizens coming towards him, he swore he could hear them snapping their fingers all in unison.


"Dwat, yew actually won," one of the robed citizens said, snapping their fingers. "Kay, mistaw, we'll yield. Bye byeee." As they said such, a portal opened up.


Abyssal denizens soon gone, the early adult tilted his head. What in the world just happened? What a peculiar group of people. Were the people he just played a game with children? What were children doing in the abyss? His head spun as he tried to make sense of it all. Shaking himself off rapidly, he threw such thoughts away. He was wasting his time thinking about it. There was no answer.


Turning his head towards the sky, the early adult studied the lighting up above, for a moment. Sky tinted a deep shade of orange, the chimera let out a sigh. Had it already been evening? I was time to stop fighting monsters for the day. Knowing he had to negotiate with Dawn Winery, the chimera steeled himself. The time had come for the worst wine deal in the entire history of Teyvat.


Descending the mountainside, the early adult stared off into space. Would the people at Dawn Winery even be willing to negotiate with him? Wine business was tough business. He knew this would not go well. He was not the Agent. Persuading people was not up his sleeve. Why couldn't he have taken over this diplomatic affair? He always had done so ninety-nine-point-ninety-nine percent of the time. This point one percent had to have been an error in the calculation, for sure.


As Dawn Winery approached ever so slowly, the hyena kept on staring. The owner of Dawn Winery, didn't he despise the Fatui? There was absolutely no way he would ever be willing to work with him. He knew if he were to try to ask him to add Snezhnayan wine to a Mondstadt festival, a fiery hot retribution would be gifted to him as a present.


Hour soon passing, Dawn Winery had been fifty meters away. Knowing he had no choice but to negotiate, the early adult took a long, deep breath. It was time to get this over with. This would go poorly, without any shadow of a doubt. Stepping foot upon the mansion, orders had come left, right, backwards and center.


Owner of the mansion yelling at the people in the courtyards to bring the wine crates to Mondstadt, the hyena broke out into a cold sweat. It had been busy here? There was no way he would be able to work in his negotiation at a time like this. Maybe it was best to turn around and leave the scene before the fiery phoenix of doom were to burn him up. But, his hopes of not being spotted were dashed, in seconds. Redhead turning towards him, eyes were glued to him.


"What do you want, Fatui?" Angel Share's owner asked. "Ask your question, and then leave the premises." As he said such, his arms had been crossed around his waist.


Eyes glued to him every step of the way, the early adult's knees shook with a fervor. Why was he staring at him like that? His eyes, they were lasers, ready to shoot him into the ground. Lips quivering, the soldier attempted to say the words fire water. But, such failed with spectacular proportions. First letter repeated over and over, he kept on shaking.


Scion rolling his eyes, a notepad and feather quilled pen had soon been handed off to him. Taking a deep breath, the soldier had begun the wordless negotiation. Writing down, 'we would like to propose a business deal of including Fire Water into Ludi Harpastum,' the chimera's legs kept on shaking as he handed the notepad back to its owner.


Angel Share's owner shaking his head and letting out a loud tsk, the early adult could feel a shock drop down his spine. Did he just click his tongue? His request, had it annoyed him to such a degree to allow for such action? He knew he needed to apologize right this instant. But, as he prepared to do so, an answer had come his way.


"No," the Dawn Winery owner said bluntly. "I will not allowed any Fire Water anywhere near the festival site."


Heavy rejection coming his way, the early adult's body shook harder. Negotiation failed. Slumping himself downward, the day flashed through his eyes. He was not able to get Fire Water into Ludi Harpastum, the Agent would be disappointed in him. He would tell Her Majesty and order his extermination right away, for sure. Why couldn't he handle all the negotiatory stuff? He was not cut out for this, whatsoever. But, a sigh had come his way.


"We'll make a look alike filled with distilled water, alright?" the Dawn Winery owner said, sighing. "Please depart the premises, Fatui."


Middle ground created, the early adult exited the premises. Was this truly alright? The Agent would definitely know the difference. If such were to be found out, he would be in trouble, guaranteed. Nightfall soon coming in like a lion, the early adult prepared himself to head back towards the capital city.


As the chimera kept heading east, he let out a tired sigh. There was no way that he would not be found out that the negotiations would fail. He would be counting the seconds towards his demise soon, guaranteed. Fear eating him alive, the world soon blurred around him, for a moment.


Reaching the capital city of Mondstadt after about an hour of dreadful thoughts, the hyena prepared himself for screams and shouts. Agent seated beside Good Hunter, the early adult dragged himself forward. Mask soon on him, he soon returned faceless eye contact.


"Good work today, soldier," the Agent said. "Head for the Goth Grand Hotel and rest for today."


Agent dismissing him, the soldier blinked. Was he not bothered by him only doing half the work today and failing negotiations? Perhaps, just maybe, word had not reached him yet. He knew such was for the best. One more disappointment, and he would be dead and gone, a tombstone upon the ground.


Reaching the Fatui owned hotel after about fifteen minutes of doomed walked, the soldier checked himself into his room. Hotel room soon upon him, a wave of tiredness immediately overtook the hyena. Weaponized hairpins and earrings put aside, and uniform soon removed, the hyena slumped into the temporary hotel bed. Sleep about ready to take him away, the chimera closed his eyes. Land of tormented dreams claiming him for the night, one last thought had begun to crash at bay.


He'll definitely be in trouble in the morning.


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the chimera's life. The cycle was a roulette, spinning back and forth in constant repeated motion. The wheel would always loom over the worst punishments, never yielding a positive result to speak of. The night before him had been no different as well.


Before him had been a large wheat field. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but wonder, had he been in someone else's property? If such were the case, he had to leave this place right this instant, or he would face his next death in the not reality before him. But, as he prepared to stage his exit, a surprise threw itself down onto the ground.


"Quack!" a voice shouted.


Gigantic ducks with machine guns stomping onto the scene, the early adult let out a growl in the land of subconscious. These ducks, how did they get here? They needed to get out of his head and go away. How dare they disturb his sleep like this. But, his subconscious thoughts were soon interrupted in a matter of dream seconds.


Ducks lowering their powerful killer weapons towards him, the hyena's eyes opened wide. Even in the sleeping world, they had been armed to the teeth. How was this possible? He hadn't even been thinking of such creatures, at the moment. But, he supposed, the thoughts had been buried deep enough inside him, he would dream about them.


Bullet rain coming down towards him, the early adult attempted to dodge them. But, such skillset was dead in the water before it could ever happen. Nonexistent adhesive gluing his currently hyena legs into place, doom loomed over the chimera. This was it. He was about to become Machine Gun Ducky's next victim.


"Quack, quack, quack!" the duck screamed.


Flaming bullets soon joining the party, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the battlefield. The duck had overpowered him. Nothing could be done. Barrage colliding with him, everything had begun to burn up one after another. Chest soon on fire, the early adult fell towards the ground. But, the onslaught was far from over.


"Quack a doodle doo!" the duck screamed once more.


Fiery bullets burning him to a crisp one after another, the early adult closed the dream eyes. Had he been transported to an alternative timeline where he had lost the battle? Feeling his dream life about to slip away, the early adult let the subconscious reaper come for him. Breathing his last, one final thought dropped down from the dream depths.


Machine Gun Ducky Strikes back.


***


"For real, Your Majesty?
I have to go and get what now?
Really, this makes absolutely no sense.
Everything is falling apart.
Why do I have to gather fireworks?
Oh, this will go so poorly.
Relocating explosives, this will go so poorly. I
Know it will. What about Mondstadt
Screams fireworks? They are an


Inazuman thing, I believe. I


Do not think this will bode well. No, I'm
Overthinking again. I am definitely overthinking.


No more of that. Maybe they're going to be exploded in a safe place.
Obviously, I am overthinking
This. Maybe Mondstadt is trying something new. I


Guess that's it. Although, I am getting this
Eerie feeling that this won't go poorly.
The Pyro Elf Girl of doom


The moment she sees there's fireworks
Here, she'll be let on the loose.
I am afraid of what
She'll do.


Will entire mountains be destroyed? I have
Heard some rumors she has done such before.
Yes, I believe I have heard


That so many now.
Her various deeds of menacing.
Everyone should just lock her way for all eternity.
Your Majesty, I don't understand you.


All and all, this is quite a
Retched idea. There has to be another thing I can go obtain.
Eh, oh well, that's that, I guess.


Don't really have a choice in the matter.
After all, I a
Nothing more than a chess piece. Time to
Get this over with.
Every second counts
Right. Here I go
Onward towards collecting the fireworks, the
Ultimate dangerous festival activity.
Something is about to go wrong, most certainly."


Upon waking up the next morning, a sudden wave of despair flowed through the soldier. He did not know why, but he couldn't help but feel a wave of darkness flow through him. Doom hugging him from behind he stared off towards the ceiling. Today was going to be a terrible day. He couldn't help but such was going to be the case.


Knowing he had to get out of bed, the soldier removed himself from his temporary quarters. But, as he headed for the door, doom continued to loom over him. He was going to have to work once again during a festival he never got to experience. Why were the archons so cruel? They had it out for him, for sure. Throwing his doom and gloom away, the chimera headed for the door.


But, what orders graced his eardrums were not at all what he had been expecting. Informed he would need to head to Liyue and import some fireworks for Ludi Harpastum, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. He had to go and do what now? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. What in the world was Her Majesty thinking?


Order to import fireworks repeated to him once more, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Did the Agent seriously have to repeat it? He heard him the first time. Go to Liyue and import fireworks. He knows already. He heard him loud and clear. How annoying.


Exiting the hotel, the early adult let out a sigh. Fireworks, what did that have anything at all to do with Ludi Harpastum in any shape or form? Hadn't those been something used exclusively in Liyue and Inazuma festivities? Who approved of this? Something about this felt incredibly off.


Such feelings had soon been calmed, however. Acting Grand Master informing him a certain bard had wanted to incorporate other nation's customs into this year's Ludi Harpastum, the hyena shrugged. He supposed he could get behind that. But, surely, there had to have been a less dangerous custom to adopt. He knew, if there were explosive sparklers involved, the pyro elf girl of doom would add her bombs to the mix.


Knowing he had no choice to take on this task, the soldier accepted his fate. Current head of the knights telling him to head or Liyue Harbor and then off to Chenyu Vale, the early adult removed his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. But, a head shake had soon come his way in a swift manner.


Acting Grand Master telling him his boss said he was not allowed to teleport, the chimera held back the urge to growl. He couldn't use his proxy map in Mondstadt anymore either? He had been quite spoiled rotten by it, indeed. Putting the quick travel device away, he soon exited the Knights headquarters once more.


Exiting the city and readying to head towards the western path near Stone Gate, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had proxy maps been made illegal, or something? Why wasn't he allowed to teleport? His job would be over far quicker if such were allowed to him. But, he supposed life was never that easy. Rules were rules, and he needed to abide by them.


Walking past Springvale, the festivities nibbled on the soldier's ear. Ignoring everything he could, the chimera kept moving forward. The activities were out of sight, out of mind. He needed to reach Liyue as soon as possible. Pushing through, Stone Gate grew closer with ever step.


Heading upon the southern pathway towards Dihua Marsh, the early adult stared off into space. Why fireworks, of all things? If handled by the wrong person, they could have the most disastrous of consequences. An accident would happen, without a shadow of a doubt. Why couldn't he go collect something safer?


Silence looping on repeat as he pushed through Wangshu Inn, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. He supposed if something happened, it wouldn't be his mess to clean up. Would such blame be aimed at the Fatui? If such ended up being the case, it was well deserved for allowing such thing into the country.


But, as the hyena continued to traverse south, a wave of discomfort flowed through him. Was it just his imagination, or had there been darkness looming in the air? Shaking it off, the chimera moved onward. He had to have been imagining it, surely. Perhaps, just maybe, it was just the breeze.


Such had not been a breeze. Creatures exuding sinister aura parading around Guili Plains like they owned the place, the early adult could feel the blood drain from his face. What were these creatures doing here? Was something terrible about to happen in Liyue? But, almost immediately upon thinking such, he could hear a familiar voice scream boring, useless, and grunt.


Yaksha fighting the monsters in front of him breathing extremely heavily, the early adult's eyes opened wide. The mountain demon, had he been pushing himself? Continuing to fight everything in his way, his breaths got heavier by the second. Mountain demon soon swaying towards the ground as the monster's fell, a wave of nervousness flowed through the chimera.


Mountain demon on the ground looking ready to lost consciousness, the early adult eyes grew small. What was happening? Was the yaksha alright? He knew he had to head for Liyue Harbor, but he couldn't help but feel something terrible would happen if he left him by himself.


Eyes fluttering towards him, the early adult's hands shook as he placed them in front of him. Pointing his index finger towards the yaksha, the chimera flattened out his left palm towards his chest. Placing his right hand on top of his left facing the opposite direction, he rubbed the right one on top of the left one. Inquiry of whether he had been alright asked on private display, a grunt had soon come his way.


"I'm fine," the Yaksha said, grunting. "Worry about yourself."


Yaksha picking himself and wobbling away, a wave of concern continued to flow through him. Was the mountain demon truly alright? But, he knew if he were to follow him he would only get shouted at. It was time to move onwards towards Liyue Harbor. He needn't concern himself with strangers he barely knew.


Reaching the Harbor after about twenty minutes of walking, the soldier could hear someone whistle towards him. Following the sound. Strange person in extremely gaudy clothing, a heavy wave of suspicion flowed through him. Who in the world was this person? He had never seen them before at the Harbor, were they new here? Stranger bellowing into a whisper, exchanges came his way.


"Here's the goods," the weird person whispered.


Box of tubes handed off to him, the chimera tilted his head. What in the world were these tube devices? Were these supposed to be something to shoot fireworks out of? He didn't know. Whatever they were, he couldn't help but feel they were unsafe no matter the situation.


Small bomb like items inside the box as well, the early adult's eyebrows continued to twitch. Were these really fireworks? Something was wrong here with this entire picture. Stranger whispering in his ear once more that these were the good ones, the hyena's legs shook. The good ones? What did that even mean? They were definitely, most certainly, without a shadow of a doubt, dangerous. But, reassurance had come his way.


"Relax, 'buddy', they're perfectly safe," the fireworks dealer said. "They've been tested, I assure you." He then bent down, whispering again. "But, if I were you, I'd go grab yourself a bodyguard. Somethin' really strange is happenin' around Liyue. But, you ain't hear nothin' from me 'bout it. Got it?"


Giving the man a nod, the soldier tilted his head as he walked away. Just what was going on in Liyue today? Had there been foreign visitor monsters walking around here, too? If such were the case, perhaps it was best to hire a bodyguard after all. Thoughts swirling in his mind, he combed through his mind, for a moment.


The panda chimera, would he be willing to serve as a bodyguard for the day? He knew it was a longshot, but he supposed it was worth a try. Moving off towards the exit, the soldier set his sights upon Yaoguang Shoal. Perhaps, just maybe, he would agree to another Chenyu Vale journey, at least for today.


Exiting the Harbor back towards the direction he came, heading back through Guili Plains once more, a surprise had soon taken over the streets once more. Yaksha knocked unconscious on the road, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. The mountain demon, something was wrong here. He needed to wake him right away.


Attempting to speak, the early adult opened his mouth. But, no words would release themselves from the chamber of his throat. Why bother? It's not like he would be able to hear him in unconscious land. Placing his hands onto the man's sides, the early adult shook him gently. Eyes fluttering opening, eye contact came his way.


"What do you want?" the yaksha asked grunting weakly.


Yaksha grunting, the early adult could feel sweat drop down his brow. Was he angry with him? He supposed he didn't blame him; he had disturbed him twice today. Bowing an apology, the chimera placed his hands out in front of him. Signing he had found him unconscious by the road, he again silently inquired about the mountain demon's condition. But, a brush off soon came his way.


"Do not concern yourself over me, mortal," the yaksha said, standing up. "I took in too much Karmic Debt. Bye." As he said such, he faded away.


Mountain demon weakly fading away, the soldier blinked. He did not know why, but he couldn't help but feel the yaksha and he were very similar in nature. Moving onwards towards the eastern path, the hyena kept moving forward. If he were to see him again, it was best to leave him be.


Shoal getting closer with every given step, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Would the panda chimera agree to be his guard for the day? He knew there was a possibility such wouldn't happen. Keeping the dice roll as low as possible, he soon stepped onto the sandy world in front of him.


Spotting the panda chimera far up on the beach already, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint. Catching up to him after about three minutes, the chimera huffed and puffed up a storm. Why did that take up so much energy today? Catching his breath, the panda chimera slowly turned towards him.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "Here to run with me?"


Question coming his way, the soldier shook his head. Placing his hands out in front of him, the chimera signed the word guard on private display. Gazing into the panda chimera's eyes, he repeated the sign a second time. Fireworks signed next, he kept going. But, rejection had almost come his way immediately.


"You're asking me to guard you while getting some fireworks?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "Sorry, Siorc, I have to leave for work soon, I can't help you out today." Would telling him he could not disappoint him? Maybe letting him know he could next time would soften the blow. "But, I promise I'll help you next time!" He waved his hands about in front of him. Would telling him about the guard they were with last time help matters? He sure hoped so. "I saw that guard you hired last time in Qingce Village again. Maybe he could help you?" He then clapped his hands together into an apologetic stance. "I'm really sorry I can't help! It's been busy lately, so I've had to come in earlier!"


Bowing a thank you, the soldier exited the beach. Figuring it was in his best interest to head for Qingce Village, the soldier had begun to head south. But, as he had begun to do so, a sea of thoughts had thrown him out into the ocean. Lines blurring together, he could feel himself drift away.


Zoning out as he kept moving forward, the chimera could not help but wonder. What was so dangerous that he would need to hire a bodyguard for? Teyvat had always been full of monsters every single moment of every single day. What was so different about today that he should have a guard?


Boars running away as he pushed through Bishui Plain, his thoughts continued to rumble. Liyue, just what was going on lately? Had it just been unsafe? He supposed everything lately had been a step towards danger lurking everywhere. He supposed it was for the best to hire someone to fight along aside him, for the time being.


Qingce Village reached after about an hour of walking, the lion dance guard had been standing in the dead center of the area. Moving towards him, the hyena tapped on the young man's shoulder. Eyes soon on him, he placed his hands in front of him. Signing he needed his services again, a warm smile appeared on his face.


"Sure," the lion dance guard said in a warm tone. "Where to?"


Placing his finger into a pointing stance, the soldier pointed at Chenyu Vale off towards the corner. While he knew such gesture was rude, uttering words to someone was not in the cards. Guard scratching his head for a moment, the hyena titled his head. Had he not made himself clear enough? He supposed such had been the case.


"You are gathering fireworks, right?" the lion guard asked.


Nodding, a wave of hard hitting information had come the soldier's way. Lion dancer guard telling him Chenyu Vale had been full of thieves today, the soldier's legs shook with a fervor. There had been criminals on the loose? How could this be? Perhaps, just maybe, hiring a guard was the best course of action.


Mora handed off to the guard, a raft had soon come towards the shore. Guard and he seating themselves, the man powered raft pushed itself forward. Middle aged individual pushing the boat, forward, the soldier kept himself as still as possible. One wrong move, and he would be in the ocean forever. Ride going steady, a suggestion had soon come his way.


"If you're coming here for a fireworks deal, it's best I take you to Yilong Wharf," the bodyguard said. "Before we go, would you like some Dim Sum? My treat."


Food offering coming his way once again, the hyena shook his head. This guard, why was he so nice to everyone all the time? If he were a person with ill intentions, this young man would be taken advantage of for his kindness, for sure. Someone needed to treat him every once in awhile.


"Alright, but let me know if you change your mind," the bodyguard said.


Soon reaching the destination, the party of two had begun to head west. But, as they had begun to do so, the soldier could see multiple Treasure Hoarders parading around the area like they owned the place. Seeing such, the chimera kept himself on guard. Attempting to tune such out, everyone kept going.


Criminals coming closer with every given step, the hyena swerved off towards the opposite side of the path. Perhaps, just maybe, if he headed towards the other side, they would not see him. Such, however had been wishful thinking. Masked bandits coming towards him, their hands had soon been on his fireworks equipment.


"Look at this little girlie here!" the Treasure Hoarder shouted, picking up a firework bomb. "She's carrying fireworks with her itty bitty fragile hands!"


Hearing such insult, the hyena balled his hands into a fist. Who did these criminals think they were, calling him fragile? These men, they thought all women were fragile, did they? What a disgusting way of thinking. How low of them. Such line of thinking was the bottom of the garbage pit. He was neither one, nor the other. They could take their backwards thoughts and throw themselves in the trash. A woman was just as strong as a man could ever be.


Treasure Hoarders continuing to sift through the box behind him, the early adult readied to give the criminals a good hard punch. Aiming for the legs, the hyena blew low. But, as he prepared to keep dishing out the damage, the lion dance guard stepped himself up to the plate.


"Knock it off!" the lion dance guard shouted.


Group of thieves not yielding, even for a moment, he had soon been up in the air with his lion dance techniques. Dropping himself downward the criminals had soon been out of the picture faster than the hyena could blink. This bodyguard was so skilled. Where did he get that power from? Stolen fireworks returned shortly after, the party of two continued to move forward.


Qiaoying Village slowly creeping upward, the soldier observed the area around him. Could there have been more thieves on the prowl in the area? He knew he would need to keep himself on high alert no matte what, even if he had hired a guard. Pushing forward, silence loomed.


But, as the duo kept moving forward, a peculiar group of Whopperflowers with foreboding aura overtook the area. Creatures looking ready to fight, the early adult unsheathed the greatsword from behind him. Guard doing the same, the fight had soon been on. Creatures blasting icicles his way, the chimera's claymore did its bidding.


Whopperflowers decimated, sharp eyes had soon been on the hyena. Seeing such, the soldier could feel his blood turn cold. Had he done something he should not have? The Whopperflowers, they seemed far tougher than normal, there was no way he could let the guard do all the work himself.


"Hey, it's my job to guard you," the guard said, in protest. "No need to get your hands dirty."


Shaking his head, the hyena signed that he insisted. Guard telling him back try not to push himself, the duo moved forward. Moving past the village, the bodyguard had suddenly requested they sneak around the area. Doing such, the soldier studied the young man's body language, for a moment.


Young man looking as though he wanted to avoid as many people as possible, the soldier turned his attention towards the subject of the people being skipped over. Entire group of people in the corner shopping, a sea of questions flowed through him. Why did they have to sneak around these people? But, he knew it was not in his place to ask. Soon being away from their gaze, an apology had come his way.


"Sorry, those were my folks," the bodyguard apologized. "I'd prefer it if they didn't see me."


Hearing such, the chimera blinked. Why was the lion dance guard avoiding his family? One's family should always be the most important people in their lives. But, he supposed not everyone's family were good people. Throwing th subject out the window, the party of two kept moving towards the next destination.


Multiple Whopperflowers along the way decimated with the power of jumps and dodges, compliments had come the hyena's way about his skillful evasion. Hours passing with battles aplenty, Yilong Wharf had finally been reached. Guard guiding him towards a mystery man in purple robes and sunglasses, and an afro, the early adult scratched the back of his head. This was the fireworks dealer? He couldn't help but feel he had encountered the wrong person.


Man introducing himself as Lieben going on an on about his marvelous merchandise, the hyena rose an eyebrow. Was this really the person who had fireworks for him? Stumbling multiple times, negotiations had taken a turn for a circle for hours on end. Deal eventually going through, the crate had soon been filled.


Guard dismissed from his duties for the day, the soldier returned to the capital city of Mondstadt after four hours of walking. Late evening kicking in, the chimera gulped. If he had been even a minute late, Her Majesty would hear about it, for sure. Agent grabbing the box of fireworks, the hyena swore he could see a smirk appear underneath his mask.


"Excellent work, soldier. You're dismissed for today," the Agent said, pride oddly leaking in his voice. "Keep up the good work tomorrow."


Dismissal soon granted, the early adult headed back towards the hotel. Checking himself back into his room, the early adult slipped into the temporary bed. Heavy wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the soldier closed his eyes. World of sleep ready to take him away, one last thought bounced a ball around in his fading human brain.


All this work for a festival he can't take part in.


***


"Sculpting. Sculpting, really? The
Cavalry Captain, he's just
Using me for free
Labor, I bet.
Please, find someone else
To do this job!
I can hardly even draw, there's
No way I could make a statue.
Get someone else!


Of all collaborations with the
Knights, this one has got to be the worst.
And, for the record,
You really should


Not employ me for anything artistic.
Obviously, I have never been artistically inclined.
Why me? I was never


Taught how to draw during my formidable years.
How could I expect to make a statue?
I can't! This is ridiculous!
So ridiculous!


I swear to the Anemo Archon, this
Should not be something I should be doing!


Please, find someone else. I implore you.
Ultimately, though, I have no choice.
Something is ordered of me, I
Have to do it, no questions asked.
I have to do my job,
No questions asked.
Get ready for the worst sculpture Mondstadt has ever seen!


It will be terrible, horrible, not great to look at,
Trust me."


Waking up the next morning, an unfortunate person stood outside his hotel room door. Cavalry Captain waiting outside, the hyena held back the urge to slam the door on his face. What was he doing here? If the captain of the missing horses had something to say to him, he wasn't at all interested in what he was selling. Fake smile on his face, he soon ran his annoying mouth.


"You're wanted in Springvale!" the Cavalry Captain exclaimed vaguely.


Hearing such, the soldier flinched. He's what now? What did he mean by wanted in Springvale? Had he been a criminal to them? What a shame. He had always lived right nearby the area. Had someone warned the village about his status as a member of the Fatui? But, the Cavalry Captain's annoying laugh soon broke glass.


"I'm just joking," the Cavalry Captain said laughing. He then got serious. "The Knights would like you to make Sculptures in Springvale for Ludi Harpastum."


Order coming his way, the soldier's ears twitched. He had to do what now? Build a sculpture for Ludi Harpastum in Springvale? Was he hearing things right? Surely, this had to have been some sort of mistake in wording. He was nowhere near artistically inclined enough to make a statue. Why him, of all people? There was no way he would do well with this.


Knowing he had no choice in the matter, the soldier let out a sigh. It was time to make the world's most horrible looking statue. Exiting the hotel and leaving the capital city, the soldier walked off towards Springvale. Thoughts releasing junk out in front of him, garbage floated around him at all times.


Garbage continuing to flow, the early adult let out another sigh. Statues, sculping a statue, really? Of all the orders he had ever received in his near eight years of being a Fatui, this one had destroyed the cake and then some. How would this help Her Majesty with anything? Nothing about this made sense.


Reaching Springvale, the trash continued to flow throughout him. Spotting Regina and Hollander out in the open of the area sculping a statue together, the chimera tried with all the might that remained to not rip out strands of his hair. The pesky penguin family, why was it that, no matter where he went he couldn't escape them? Today was going to be a long day.


Seeing a spot in the corner with his name written on in, the early adult let out a groan. Great, he was right next to the penguins, too. Could his day get any more aggravating? If they had anything to say to him at any given point, he would tune them out. The thorns in his side could suck on eggs if they wished to annoy him. He had work to do. But, almost immediately, the voices soon grated cheese.


"You came after all, Mr. Fatui," Regina said, slight sense of impatience in her voice. "You need to make a sculpture of the Anemo Archon since we did Venessa already." But she had soon been interrupted.


"Regi, my hands are like, totally dirty right now," Hollander said, hands completely grey as she held them up.


"All part of the creative process, Holly," Regina said to Hollander. She then turned towards the Fatui. "Do you need help getting started, Mr. Fatui? We're almost done, I don't mind."


Rolling his eyes towards the sky, the soldier shook his head. Allow a penguin to help him with the artistic process? No way. Not a chance. He could get the sculpture done all by himself. Huge, thick guide handed off to him, the early adult could feel himself about to shrink as he read through the instructions.


Everything about sculpting sounding like complete gibberish to him, the early adult gazed at the block of grey clay in front of him. How was he supposed to make this oozy liquid into a statue? How were artists able to turn such a thing into the object of which they desired? He was none the wiser.


Instructions informing him to construct the shape of thing he wished to sculp, the soldier stared at the block of clay in the corner. An Anemo Archon statue, how was he supposed to construct such a thing. Turning towards the penguin's statue, a tall woman warrior made of clay stood out. But, he soon threw himself back towards the opposite direction. No looking at the enemy. He was on his own.


Taking a lump of clay, the soldier stared at the photo of the Anemo Archon statue. Should he start with the legs? He supposed that was a good place to start. Attempting with all his might to shape the modelling paste into limbs, the soldier broke into a cold sweat. Making absolutely nothing that resembled such, he could feel his winter jacket get bathed deep.


Clay nothing but balls of garbage, the early adult let out a groan. How in the world was he supposed to do this? Who in the world sculpted with soft clay? There was no way these statutes would even look good if he were the one handling it. The Cavalry Captain had made a grave mistake telling him to sculpt.


Attempting over and over again to make legs, the limbs had soon been crafted after about twelve failures to do so. Placing the walkers upon the base of the statue, the early adult wiped the sweat off his brow. The life of an artist had definitely been a thankless career. Why did anyone put their whole soul into these sorts of things? It had to have been the most difficult career in the universe.


Spindrift Knight soon walking onto the scene inspecting everyone's statues, the early adult could feel his heart skip a beat as she approached his. Comments with a ton of salt said to every other person, he knew his moment of pepper would be washed upon him any second. Eyes sizing up the clay legs, the chimera swore he could hear the woman give him a loud hmph.


"These legs are all crooked! How dare you think these are worthy of Ludi Harpastum!" the spindrift knight exclaimed with an arrogant tone in her voice.


Hearing such, the early adult bowed an apology. The legs had been crooked? He had been far worse at this than he could have ever imagined. Attempting with all his might to fix the problem, nothing looked any better no matter how hard he tried to do so. Waving the white flag, the chimera knew it was time to move onto the body. The clay had already hardened, nothing could be done.


Moving back towards the clay, the soldier prepared to sculpt the body. Surely, making such would not prove to be difficult. Staring downward at the clay, the chimera could not help but wonder. How had it not dried out yet? Hadn't it been sitting here all day? Some things within Teyvat were truly a mystery to behold.


Attempting to shape the body multiple times, the middle section of statue failed to come together for hours on end. Clay falling apart, the early adult let out a frustrated scream. What was he doing wrong here? Why was the clay coming apart like this? Continuing to pat it through, it kept on ripping away.


Body soon finished, the early adult groaned. This looked so terrible, it had to have been an insult to the Anemo Archon. Sticking the body onto the legs, the chimera grit his teeth. Any second now, and this statue would fall apart, without an ounce of doubt. Attempting to pat it down until it hardened, another knight soon walked by.


Outrider on the scene, the soldier could feel himself about to float away. The Gliding Champion of Mondstadt was here? If she were to see his statue, she would most certainly despise it with every single fiber of her very being. Stepping in front of it, he tried to keep it as hidden as possible, but such action failed. Young woman and statue already far taller than him, she moved right past his attempted trick.


"Hmm, your statue looks good, but it needs some wings!" the outrider exclaimed in review.


Hearing such, the soldier snapped his fingers. How could he forget to make wings? This Anemo Archon statue was definitely a disaster amongst everything. Attempting or another hour to make the objects of flight, the early adult let out a huff. Crooked flights of fancy placed on the statue, the soldier turned his back towards them. This was getting more awful by the second, for sure.


But, as the hyena kept the sculpting going, a loud explosion soon overtook the area. Multiple generic nobodies breaking out into confusion, and pesky penguin duo running off towards a tree to hide, the soldier jumped six steps back. Had someone shot off fireworks somewhere? Surely, that had to be it.


Agent soon running onto the scene to inform him the noise had come from Brightcrown Mountains, the chimera had soon been sent to deal with such mishap. Abandoning the sculpting project, the early adult had begun running. False hope looming through him for minutes on end, the soldier kept on running. Surely, someone had to just have been blasting fireworks. That had to have been it.


Such, however, had been wishful thinking. Reaching the halfway after about an hour of running, the explosions had only gotten more potent. Turning his head up toward the sky, black energy engulfed everything around him. Seeing such, the early adult kept himself on guard. There was danger afoot. Caution was mandatory.


Reaching Brightcrown Mountains after about an hour of further running, the most predictable sight of them all overtook the area. Abyssal gazelles summoning multiple black portals attempting with all their might to take Stormterror's Lair down with them to t heir humble abode, the chimera let out a scream. Why were they still trying these dangerous things? Didn't they know the consequences of erasing landmarks off the map? Villains turning towards him, fingers had been pointed his way.


"How could he still be alive!" Kelebek shouted, clicking one's tongue. "You thought your present god rid of him for good!"


"You dare stay alive and continue to meddle with our plans!" Izzet shouted, pointed.


Giving the abyssal duo glares, the early adult folded his left hand into a fist. How dare he stay alive? How dare they place poisonous Jade inside his body. These two, didn't they ever know when to quit with their revenge plot? Attempting to ask why they were still doing this, his lips moved, but a zipper had soon been upon his lips.


"This world belongs to the abyss!" Izzet shouted in desperation. "Get out of our way, unless you want another present from us, nyahaha!"


But, the hyena would not budge. Enough was enough. He would not stand by any longer and allow them to go on with their plans. Folding his second hand into a fist, the chimera lunged forward. Fists slapped upon the villain's faces, the blows kept on going. No more of these games from them. They had to be stopped. But, the duo soon teleported backwards.


"Dear Lector, help up wipe old Monstadt off the map!" Kelebek shouted. As one said such, a robed denizen stepped onto the scene.


Robed denizen trying to destroy the old former Mondstadt starting point, the soldier soon unsheathed his claymore. Were these two still trying to wipe the area off the face of the continent? Ridiculous, not happening. Greatsword glowing a blinding light, the hyena swiped forward. Enemy bathed in such, he melted, in an instant. Everything soon crumbled, the early adult blinked. What just happened? What did the blade just do? Abyssal duo snapping their fingers, they jumped back towards their loser portal, as well.


"You will have revenge!" Kelebek shouted. But, one was soon gone.


Abyssal duo gone without a trace, the early adult returned to Springvale. Anemo Archon Statue already completely redone, the early adult sighed. So much for being able to partake in Ludi Harpastum. But, a surprise had come his way. Agent allowing him to partake in the festivities, the chimera did a triple take. Was this really happening right now? This had to have been some sort of trick.


Returning to the capital city of Mondstadt, the soldier had begun partaking in the festivities for hours on end. Multiple games played, tears streamed down the hyena's face. So, this is what Ludi Harpastum felt like. Celebrations, games, enjoying oneself. He felt like his stolen childhood had been returned in the span of four hours.


Nightfall soon arriving, orders for him to return to Snezhnaya had come his way. Wave of disappointment flowing through him, the chimera removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. All good things must eventually come to an end. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, he soon closed his eyes.


Reaching the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking, the early adult walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. The abyssal gazelles, what kind of revenge would they cast upon him this time? His life, would they just take it this time for good? He knew everything was only going to get worse from here.


Wave of tiredness eventually overtaking him, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform put away as well, and glasses put aside, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him. One last thought wrapped vines around him as he drifted off to sleep.


He's never safe, is he?

 

[Palamon]

29. Chenyu Vale Rumblings 2: Miasma Aplenty

"Maybe something bad
Is happening
All around Teyvat
Something isn't right. But,
Maybe I'm overthinking.
Ah, that's it, that has to be


It. I am absolutely overthinking.
No. I am probably not.


Can't be. I
Have to be on the right track, surely.
Everything has been quite
Noticeably worse lately
Yes, sea monsters outside the
Underwater world. This is


Very concerning,
And to be honest, it
Looks like it all about to get worse
Everything, every single thing. Just


What is happening? I
Honestly don't know
Yes, I do not know, I


Don't know anything, honestly.
Oh, well,


I know will be dealing with it.


For, Her Majesty will send me to fight
Everything. Deal with
Everything. All of it. It's
Likely, without a shadow of doubt.


Likely, and
I know I'll have no option to say no. I
Know that.
Even if I do not have


Any interest in dealing with this


Large amount of chaos,
Or dangerous happenings,
There is no choice.


Obviously, I have no choice
For, I am a chess piece.


Ha. What a situation, an
Overt high amount of
Rather vicious monsters
Really, now that
I have seen monsters disguise themselves I
Bet I will have
Look or investigate
Everything and anything.


That's probably about to
Happen, where will
I be going? I have
No idea. But, I
Guess I will find out.
So much has been


Happening, so fast,
And I quite
Very much know
Everything will be on me


And only me to
Look further into this,
Listen, Your Majesty, why only me? Is it


Because I am your multi region pawn?
Eh, probably. I'm sure
Everyone knows.
Not a single person probably


Hasn't heard what my role is.
Ahahaha, I'm just a
Pawn. Just a
Piece on her chessboard.
Every day, she's a
Notch closer to checkmate.
It's getting closer and closer, to a
Notion to
Get through this world


Ah, I see how it is,
Looks like that's it.
Looks like that's it.


After all, I know
There's no


One else she will send to deal with this.
Nope. Only me, but I
Can't complain. I have to be quiet about
Everything. It's better this way.


Look, Your Majesty, I'll do
All you ask me, but
This problem is getting out of hand
Everything is. But, I will not be able to
Leave it be.
Yes, I know


All that, obviously.
Looks like it's going to be another
Long, painful series


Of days. Battling these
Viscous influx of strange monsters.
Eh, it is what it is,
Really. I have to


Take on whatever is
Expected of me.
Yes, do all I am told, I
Very much have to do
All that's told of me. Obedience and diligence.
That is key to successful living."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The cycle was never ending, looping and repeating constantly, without a single blip in the pattern being present. The night before him was no different, as well, continuing the circle of doom for all of eternity.


Before him had been a field of Small Lamp Grass. The flowers were blue, and bulbous, brightly glowing against the nighttime sky. But, something had been off about them. Plants seated near a bed of snow, nothing was right within the dream world before him.


Staring at the plants for a moment longer, a heavy wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Small Lamp Grass, didn't it grow in warm places? Why had there been a crop of them in the snow? Something had been incredibly off about all this. The world was all wrong, opposite, reverse of how it should have been.


Attempting with all his might to avoid the snow, the early adult could not help but wonder. Where had the dream world taken him to this time? He could neither make heads nor tails of where he had been. But, he knew one things for certain, and one thing only. He had to stay away from the snow, no questions asked.


But, luck and the archons were not on his side. Short body dragged towards the bed of frozen water, the world forced him to sit downward. Hearing something laughing at him from afar, the early adult let out a sigh. Was there someone here? Whoever it had been, they had better show themselves. But, he knew he had no control over anything occurring in the not reality before him.


Such had not been the end of the disturbances. Feeling a wave of chilliness, the soldier turned his dream head towards the right and left. Why was the dream world so cold? Something wasn't right here. Had he actually been awake right now? Pinching himself, there was no pain. Shaking his head, the hyena let out a sigh. He was most certainly dreaming right now.


Staring off into dream space, the chimera could not help but wonder. What's going to happen to him today, something tormenting? What could possibly be about to happen to him? He hadn't the foggiest of ideas, but he knew, any second now, a world of pain would come out of hiding.


The oddities, however, had only just begun. Flowers sticking out of the ground, and gaining faces, breaking into song and dance, an even heavier wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. What was happening here? Why were they performing a musical number? Plants singing the world was so wonderful, the chimera made himself comfortable. Perhaps, just maybe, this dream would be a normal one, for a change.


An astronomically, incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part.


"Let it burn! Let this entire world burn!" the flowers sang in unison.


Hearing such, the early adult let out a scream. What did those flowers just say? Who had been controlling them? There was no way they would ever say such a thing. He needed to get out of here, right this instant. It was not safe here, he had to get out of here, before he were to become fuel to the fire. Seating himself upward, the early adult attempted to make a run for it once again.


Such had been a failure before it could even begin. Hearing someone fly by, the early adult tilted his head upward. But whom he saw was a shock for the ages. Hase floating upwards upon the air on a broomstick, a million questions flowed through the chimera's mind all at once. What had Hase been doing here, on a sweeping tool? How was she flying? Had he been transported into another world where witches were real? But, he shook his head. He had already been in such a world in reality, hadn't he? He did not know anymore. Witchy sister laughing, she soon let out a chant.


"Let it all burn!" Witch Hase chanted. "Let everything burn!"


Magic wand waved upon the air, the snow around him burned to a crisp in a matter of dream seconds. Seeing such as her laughs continued, the early adult grit his teeth. This wasn't Hase. There was no way. She would never do anything to bring any sort of harm to him. Who was this person, and why were they wearing this disguise? He needed to call out to them now. Bravery on full display, he let out his urge to shout.


"You're not Hase!" Siorc shouted out in the dream world in front of him. "She would never hurt me! Stop assuming her appearance!" But, he soon covered his mouth. Did he just raise his voice? He can't believe he had just done that.


"Beautiful deduction!" 'Hase' responded. "I am indeed not her!" As she said such, she undid her transformation. "I am your worst enemy!"


Green Robed Abyss Mage taking Hase's place, it laughed with a ferocity. Commanding the fire around it with a little dance, the hyena's dream eyes opened wide. What just happened, why would an Abyss Mage assume his missing sister's identity? Why was his brain always doing these things to him? Safety was dead, and gone without a trace, a Mission Person upon the billboard.


Flames coming for him almost instantly, the early adult's body had been cooked, toasted, finished. Mage's laughs only continuing, the rain of fire would not end, for any reason. Everything soon charred into nothing, the early adult fell upon the dream grass. But, the attacks had only just begun.


Enemy snapping its fingers, even more flames soon engulfed the soldier. Feeling himself ready to become nothing, the early adult closed his dream eyes. Defeat hugging him from behind, doom sang a sea of songs one after another. It was over, he was done, finished, a corpse upon the battlefield. Breathing his last dream breath, his final thoughts slipped out into the open.


Looks can be deceiving.


***


"Maybe I am overthinking, but.
All that has been happening lately has only worsened.
Yes, it has all gotten worse.
But, I guess that's what happens when
Everything has gotten so far out of control.


This is just strange.
How could this have all evolved to this point?
I do not know. I do
Not know anything, truly.
Guess all of this has been getting out of control
Slowly. Or, maybe I


Am still overthinking.
Right. I'm just overthinking.
Everything will reverse back to normal, surely.


Only time will tell.
No, Perhaps it is far too soon to tell.
Likely, this is all the beginning of the collapse.
Yes, that's what the abyssal


Gazelles are planning
Over in their heads.
I know, since they failed to get rid of me, they are onto their
Next plan. I have to
Gather all my strength and ensure


That never happens. But, I know that I cannot just go
Over and look for them. I have a job to do, and if I were to wander, my life will be


Given away to the world of the dead.
Everything has to remain in
The background for now.


Why risk anything?
Obviously, I have to keep on doing work. Don't
Risk anything.
Sooner, or later, they will be taken down, and
Each end everything they tried to do will be tried


In the Court of Fontaine.
No, perhaps not,


That probably will not happen, I do not think.
Even so, they have been far too bold, lately.
Yes, too bold.
Very much so.
Ah, well, portions of
The last month or so


Are beginning to blur.


Though, I mustn't let myself remain unwary.
How much have they done? Or
Rather, what are they about to do?
Everything is cracking.
Something is
Happening. Or will be, shortly.
Of all the things they have attempted,
Looks like they'll never be satisfied.
Don't they think their revenge at this point


Has reached a point of no return?
Ah, who am I kidding? People like that
Don't have any reasoning in


Their brains. They just want revenge,
Oh, why am I even thinking about them? I bet they can


Hear my thoughts. They're
Always listening, peering into the privacy of my own
Vacant head. They're listening, they're watching my
Every move. I


Bet they're in Snezhnaya somewhere,
Eyeing me from afar. Listening at
Earshot. Well, they'll
Never get anything out of me.


Could they be hiding amongst other Fatui?
Really, at this point, they could be up to anything. But,
Other members of the Fatui haven't
Said anything about a strange
Soldier amidst the ranks lately.
Even if they had, I
Doubt I would have heard about it.


Because I am nothing more than a lowly soldier.
Yes, nothing more than a lowly soldier. There is


No way I am ranked any higher than the lowest
Of the low tiers.
Well, who knows,


At this point? I do not know anything.


Because I never hear
Anything. Maybe it is better that way.
Don't think too deeply,


Or everything will haunt met.
Now, breathe, breathe.
Everything is fine. Don't think about it too deeply. Everything is fine. It's time to get onto working."


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Dreams are not real. He should not let such a thing bother him. Shaking it all off, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the early adult's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the chimera could not help but wonder. Abyss Mages, did they have the ability to transform? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. He would never see them again. They had to have been a special case of abyssal denizens, for sure. He needed to stop thinking about the dream world past moments, and throw himself into the present.


Taking a long deep breath, the hyena clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, a wave of calmness flowed throughout the hyena's short body. But, such feeling barely lasted for even a moment. Unease returning as quickly as it vanished, the chimera walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor.


Circle about continuing, the soldier could not help but wonder. The Abyssal Gazelles, what had they planned to do next? Why couldn't they have been satisfied with their last stunt? Whatever that might have been. He did not know why, but the last four weeks or so before Ludi Harpastum had begun to get rather fuzzy. Pace about only going further, the questions continued. Just what could they be planning this time? He knew that they would be up to nothing good.


But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. Why was he thinking about them? They could probably hear his thoughts. Throwing everything away, the early adult moved back towards his uniform drawers. No more of this. He had to finish getting ready. Work mode switch flipping upward, everything else had muted itself inside him.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier stared down at the yellow-green orb below him. The gods, could they take Visions away if it were to go unused for too long? But, the early adult tossed such thoughts out the barricaded window. That won't happen. He is just not ready to commit himself to using it all the time. There was no way the Gods would ask for it back.


Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the soldier stared off into space, for a moment. Just how many chimeras could have possibly been in the Abyssal Gazelle's revenge plot? He knew, he was far from the only one that had been one of their targets, for sure. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away once again. The hooded strangers, they could most certainly hear him. They had to have put a chip in him somewhere to hear every single thing going on in this confines of his brain. He needed to remove any other pondering he had about them, right this instant.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march onward with a fervor, the early adult flinched. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Removing every other remaining thought inside him, the work mode switch flipped upward. No more of these nonsensical thoughts. It was time to get to work. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, he turned his attention towards the door. It was go time.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent shouted in an irritated one. "Fix yourself this instant! Your tail is out!" What a hideous sight to behold.


Hearing such, the chimera flinched. When did he transform? Hyena arms, legs and tail sticking out, he took a long, deep breath. Right, get rid of them, right this instant. Closing his eyes, for a moment, his tail retracted from behind him. Hyena hands returning to human form, the early adult clapped his hands together, bowing downward.


"I apologize, sir!" the early adult accidentally exclaimed in an apologetic tone.


"Don't let that be seen in public," the Agent responded. "In any case, soldier, you will be going to Chenyu Vale and clearing out Miasma." The Masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "Find someone to assist you, if you are able. This force is quite dangerous."


Hearing such, a bundle of nerves wrapped the hyena up into a present box. He has to clear out miasma? Why here, and why now? How was he supposed to accomplish such a thing? He hardly had the power capable to get rid of such a thing, Vision bearer or not. Staring off into space, the thoughts continued.


Word miasma echoing in his mind, for a moment, the early adult kept staring off into space. Miasma, in Liyue. How had something like this come into being? He had no idea, but he knew this could not go on. Hadn't such a force been noxious to living creatures of all kinds? This could not stand.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be clearing out miasma in Chenyu Vale today!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. What could he possibly be thinking about besides work? The Agent could never fathom it. "Quit dawdling, and get a move on!"


The early adult flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for any sort of thinking whatsoever. Turning back towards the Agent, he placed his hand out in front of him. It was a crime to keep Her Majesty waiting. Any second later, an he was a goner, for sure.


"Yes, sir," the chimera responded autonomously. Dangerous, or not, he knew he had no choice but to face it.


"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. "Head for the blacksmith before departing. Have a special weapon made for you." Arm out in front of him, the early adult stared at the icy cold walls. Yet another difficult day was about to await him. Escort towards Liyue about to begin, one final thought threw itself out into the snow.


Liyue was in danger, as well.


***


"Find someone?
I don't know who I could even ask.
No way anyone would
Dare to help me out on


Something like this.
Once they hear
Me ask about miasma,
Everyone will most certainly flee.
Of course, I know that.
No one would
Ever dare step food near such a dangerous force.


Looks like, I'll be on my own.
I would rather not involve people I barely
Know. I mustn't get strangers involved.
Even if this is a very dangerous uptake I


Will not involve normal, everyday citizens.
Here, it is just best to
Open my eyes and realize I


Will be doing this all solo.
How hard could all of this possibly be?
Oh, really, I don't know. It


Won't be all that hard,
Obviously. I have a Vision. I can
Unleash the powers of Dendro, and
Let whatever awaits me go
Down with the power of my flower friends.


Even though I am still unskilled in the power of
Visions. Surely, it will all go well.
Everyone is up to me. I do
Not need to waste my words on asking for


Help. It will all be fine.
Everything will be alright. I know for certain.
Look, it's just Miasma.
Perhaps, it won't all be that bad.


Maybe, I can do this all alone.
Every moment wasted


Is another moment of disappointed.


All and all, it barely
Matters. In the end, it'll


All be up to me.


For, I am Her Majesty's pawn.
A piece on the chessboard.
The one closest to the
Ultimate checkmate. Any moment now. She will
Unleash the beast.
She will let the lion out of its cage.


And I will be front and center
No, perhaps, that's just an exaggeration. I
Doubt that she


Is planning anything especially that


Deep. Most likely not. I am
Overthinking, exaggerating.


No more
Of that nonsense. No more of
That ridiculousness.


Wipe all those thoughts
Away. These are thoughts of
Nonsense. No more of
That. It's about


Time I start working.
Oh, what kind of


Impossible tasks await me
Now? No. Do not think that way. It is
Very much not impossible to remove miasma, so
Onward I go to Chenyu Vale.
Look at what's ahead of me. Cleanse the
Vale of its impurities.
Every single one must be purged.


Yes, every single one that exists.
I cannot allow for any to remain.
None, whatsoever.
Lead myself
Onto the path of victory. Leaving
Nothing dangerous behind.
Get myself ready for


Intricate dealings, this
Noxious, and dangerous force


Solo. No one. It will be difficult,
Unrelenting, but I
Cannot bother anyone. I
Have to say silent,


And do this by my lonesome. I


Doubt Her Majesty
Actually wants me to find allies.
No. That had to have been a slip of the tongue. A
Great big slip, if you ask me.
Everyone knows that Fatui are despised,
Regarded as pests. It is best I remember that. So,
Off I go, getting that weapon made.
Unleash the beast.
Stay in my singular lane.


Maybe it is better that way
I know she would rather I
Stay solo, do anything
Singular. It is what
It is. All
Of this is what I am used to.
Nothing will ever change for me, as long as am I a member of the Fatui."


Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the Teleport Waypoint, instructions had come his way almost immediately. Told to ask for a rather specific Claymore, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Why had this all sounded so complicated? Bag of supplies slammed onto his back, the Agent had soon exited the area.


Knowing he had to head for the blacksmith right away, the soldier had begun heading upon the northern pathway. City bustling with a heavy amount of activity, the hyena could not help but allow his thoughts to wander. What was going on in the city today? Why had there been so many people? But, he supposed he had been overthinking it. Liyue Harbor was almost always busy, at any given time.


Staring off into space as he continued walking, the hyena could not help but think. Who could he possibly ask to help him with the Miasma issues occurring within Chenyu Vale? He could hardly think of anyone that would be willing to do so. Why did the Agent mention such a thing in the first place?


The early adult threw such thoughts away in the garbage. Why was he thinking about any of this? Finding someone to assist him was definitely optional. Surely, he would be able to take care of the miasma by himself. It couldn't have possibly been difficult enough to need another person on his team.


Moving forward at a snail's pace, the soldier's thoughts continued to wander. The panda chimera, could he ask him to lend him assistance? But, the early adult immediately shook his head. Maybe it was not a wise idea to get him involved. This was a dangerous mission, was it not? It was in his best interest to do this solo.


Multiple people walking towards the Wharf, the early adult's thoughts had begun to wander once more. Just what was going on here today? Was there some kind of event happening around Liyue? The early adult hadn't the foggiest, but he knew it was best to not think too deeply about it. Time was ticking.


Attempting to regain focus, the soldier kept moving towards the blacksmith. He hardly had time to think about any of this. He had to move on and have his weapon made, and head for Chenyu Vale. Enough of this nonsensical thinking. Whatever had been happening here was no business of his whatsoever. He would hardly be here long enough to find out.


But, as the early adult moved closer towards his next locations, his body quickly collided with another. Force taking him out, for a moment, the hyena backed two steps away. Where had this person come from? Turning his attention towards them, a generic faced man with brown hair, a red streak and glasses stared back at him. Who was this person? He had never seen him before. Placing his hands out in front of him, the chimera sent out his wordless apology for no one to hear.


"No need to apologize, mortal," the strange man said.


Man moving out of the way, the hyena tilted his head. Just who was this man? But, he shrugged. What were the chances he would ever see this person again? He was a stranger. He would forget this encounter by the end of the day, for sure. Resetting all his thoughts, the chimera walked up towards the blacksmith.


Handing the employee the blueprint paper for the claymore, his eyes darted through the paper, for a few moments. Man asking him if this was the weapon he wanted? It might be complicated to make, the hyena nodded. He knew that he had to follow instructions, without question. The choice was not his.


"I can make this for you, but it might take me about thirty minutes," the blacksmith said. "Why not order Chop Suey while you wait?"


Shaking his head, the hyena placed his hands out in front of him. Signing he had already eaten, the blacksmith prepared the tools upon his smithing stage. Gazing at the fruits of his labor, the chimera kept his eyes upon the prize. Heat kicking itself up into overdrive, everything moved along.


Blacksmith beating a hammer upon a heated object, the early adult adjusted his glasses. So, this was the art behind making weapons. How very interesting. Materials placed near the fireplace, he backed himself off towards the fence. Being a smithy had to have been a job a very heated job.


Base of the greatsword soon made, the early adult held back the urge to clap. How very fascinating this all was. This was the art of weapon making, in the flesh. Bangs continuing, for the time being, sweat mounted up on the smithy's brow. What an arduous process this must have been for him.


Large, two handed sword with a bright, dark blue casing and many black bolts screwed into it, the early adult payed the man a handsome sum of Mora. Informed almost immediately it would help him deflect Miasma, the hyena bowed a thank you. Everything done, he knew it was time to leave for the northern mountain range.


Sheathing the greatsword behind him, the early adult readied to head off towards the Wharf. Heading off towards the northern path, the soldier stared off into space. Would this claymore really help him deflect Miasma easier? He supposed it was best to take his word for it. This person had to have made weapons all the time. He knew what he was talking about.


But, as the chimera pushed himself towards the Wharf, he swore he could hear a deer trotting around somewhere. But, he threw such thoughts away. There were no deer in Liyue, what was he thinking? Perhaps, just maybe, some of the children in the Harbor were just making a ruckus.


But, his suspicions had soon been confirmed. Spotting a deer from afar along with two birds moving something onto one of the beats afar, the soldier backed three steps away. What in the world he he just witnessed? Maybe he had been daydreaming. But, the oddities only continued further.


Hearing the bird person up ahead say this won't do, move it closer to the hull, the hyena was absolutely dumfounded. Just what was he hearing? But, the early adult regained focus, tuning out everything that did not matter. It was just another day. He needed to focusing and nothing else.


Stepping foot into the wharf, the area had been bustling with activity, as well. Pushing on through, the hyena could hear a heavy amount of noise drown everything. Hearing such, the early adult attempted to tune everything out. Why was everyone and everything so loud today? But, he had soon found the source of the noise.


Spotting the blue haired bookworm, his icy exorcist companion and the guitarist girl talking amongst one another, strings had been strummed for the entire world to hear. Seeing such, the soldier shook his head. Were they putting on a concert in the middle of the day, or something? No one seemed interested in such. But, conversation soon kicked in through the strums.


"The iridescence tour got cancelled again," the guitarist said. "It's kicking my rhythm completely outta whack." As she said such, she strummed her guitar.


"I do not know much about music," the exorcist said. "But that sounded out of tune."


"It does indeed," the blue hair bookworm commented.


Tuning the three's conversation out, the soldier moved along. Why was he eavesdropping? It was none of his business what any of them were talking about. Walking towards the bridge, the chimera readied himself to finally exited the area. But, as if the Archons were laughing at him, another interruption threw him ten further steps backward.


Hearing loud, powerful footsteps, the chimera let out a groan. What was happening now? He hardly had any time for this. Masked Fatui soon catching up to him, he surrendered himself to whomever was the god of distractions. At this rate, he would never make it to Chenyu Vale before evening.


"Soldier, head over to the bank, now," the masked Fatui said, out of breath.


Hearing such, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Head to the Northland Bank? Why did he have to head here? Wasn't he supposed to be moving on from here and heading off to the next destination? But, he knew he could not disobey orders. Turning back around, the hyena prepared himself.


Heading towards the red staircase, the chimera could not help but wonder. Just what was about to await him? What was so important he had to go to the bank? Unforeseen circumstances were the worst victim of any distractions. Barreling up the stairs, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint.


Pushing past the book booth, the chimera kept running. He needed to be limber, he needed to be quick. If there was a candlestick, he would need to jump over it. Dashing on through, the chimera slowed himself down as the door to the banking establishment awaited him.


Taking a deep breath, the soldier opened the doors. Agent waiting for him, the chimera walked towards him. What could have possibly been so important to call him back here? Mask soon on him, the soldier gave eye contact. Had plans suddenly changed? He supposed he was about to find out.


"Soldier, I forgot to give you a very important thing," the Agent said. "Give me a moment."


Hearing such, the soldier blinked. What could it have been that he had forgotten to give him? How very unlike him. But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. What did it matter? Everyone forgot something every once in awhile. Agent soon returning, the very special object had soon been in the palm of his hands.


Hydro Delusion with a menacing aura placed into his hands, a wave of unease flowed through him. This was the very important thing he had forgotten to give him? Such should have remained forsaken. A delusion. He would be out of commission very quickly, guaranteed.


"Should you not come across anyone willing to aid you," the Agent said, arms crossed around his waist. "This tool should assist you further in the elimination of miasma."


Delusion heating his hand up, the young soldier shook with a fervor. Why is this happening? Something was off about this sinister orb, something different, eerie. This one would knock him out of the park quicker than any other, for sure. Fear swallowing him up like a plate of almond tofu, everything froze.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "What are you so concerned about? This one is special. It will not harm you."


Clipping the sinister orb onto his uniform, the early adult exited the bank. Knowing it was time to head to Qingce Village, the soldier dashed back off towards the Wharf. It was time to make haste. Crossing the bridge, the work mode switch flipped upward. Harbor city left behind.


But, as the hyena moved towards Guili Plains, something of peculiar note stuck out to the soldier. Spotting a Hilichurl army marching along the road, the early adult tilted his head. What was going on? He had been witnessing quite a ton of odd things one after another today.


Leaving the monsters be, the soldier moved right along. They were not bothering him, so it was best to not disturb them. He hardly had any time to waste. Multiple slowdowns had already occurred today. He needed to get back on track. Tuning out everything around him, the soldier pressed on through the area.


But, as the soldier kept moving along, more monsters joined the march of doom. Seeing such, he could not help but wonder. Just where were these monsters headed? He had no idea, but wherever it was, something was quite off about it. Had these creatures been brainwashed?


Turning his attention away, the chimera kept his eyes on the road. What did it matter if the monsters were brainwashed? That was hardly his problem. He needn't concern himself with the monster world. I was unimportant. Nothing that was happening was any of his business.


Pushing through Wangshu Inn, the Hilichurl Army soon followed, group only getting bigger, the hyena could feel a wave of irritation clung onto his backside. Were these monsters going everywhere he was? Absolutely ridiculous. Spark popping off in his brain, the greatsword was unsheathed behind him. Aiming at the creature closest towards the back of the line, he was armed, and ready. Time for a a quick little warning.


But, such warning fell flat on its face almost immediately. Bubble protecting them as if by a unicorn guard creature, the hyena surrendered. Why was he wasting his time attacking them? He had far more important things to do right about now. Ignoring the parade, the chimera readied to move through the marsh.


Moving through Dihua Marsh, the cacophony of songs overtook the entire area. But, the early adult tuned such out. He would continue to not pay any of this any mind. Parade moving off towards the opposite direction, the chimera dashed through the wetlands to the best of his ability.


Reaching the halfway point towards the elderly village after half an hour of speedy running, the early adult heaved a heavy breath. Slowing his sprint back down into a walk, the chimera pressed through the edges of Stone Gate. Feeling an intense dark aura on the air, the chimera's knees buckled. Something was amiss here.


Bishui Plains finally upon him, the soldier steeled himself. What was about to await him in Chenyu Vale? Would the miasma take on some sort of physical form? He knew such had to have been a possibility. There was no way it couldn't have been. Whatever he was about to witness whenever he were to reach there, he had to be ready.


Reaching the halfway point through the area, a disappointing sight to behold caught his attention amongst the bamboo trees. Spotting the panda chimera snoozing off in the grass, the chimera shook his head. Had Yínlóng gone back to being lazy? What a sad sight to see.


The soldier quickly through such thoughts away. It was not in his place to judge people. If he did not wish to exercise today, that was their choice. Making assumptions was quite rude of him. Knowing it was best to leave him be, the chimera readied to move along. But, a loud yawn took him out of it almost immediately.


Lifting herself upward, Yínlóng let out a yawn. She did not know why, but she could sense a familiar presence. Turning their head slowly, intuition had been right on the Mora. Siorc standing in the corner looking as though he was in a hurry, a tired smile appeared on their face. They knew he was here. Perhaps a brief greeting would not hurt.


"Oh, hey, Siorc, I could sense you were here," Yínlóng greeted. "Sorry for not exercising on the beach. I've been having a lot of extra work to do lately."


Sorry sent his way, the early adult looked into the panda chimera's eyes. Why was he apologizing? Such was not necessary. Rescinding his disappointment, the early adult shook his head. He was working hard at other things. He needed to let him know there no need for concern over not doing the fitness regimen, at the moment.


"Do not worry about it, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. But, he soon turned around. "Sorry, sir, I have to go." But, a voice soon called out to him.


"Where are you heading?" Yínlóng asked slowly. "Do you have some job with the big bad Fatui?"


Giving the panda a nod, the soldier wondered. Should he let him know he was dealing with miasma in Chenyu Vale? But, the early adult popped a pin into such thought. He should not do such a thing. Yínlóng had more on his plate right now. It was best to not get him tangled up into it. Keeping himself silent, one final set of words had come his way.


"Good luck," Yínlóng said, words slow. But, as he said such, let out a yawn.


Panda knocked back out, the soldier moved along. He would definitely need all the luck he could get today, for sure. The miasma would be a tough opponent, without question. Stepping through the path, unease nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. Any second now, and he would be at the mercy of miasma.


Continuing upon the westward path, the fear only continued to swallow the soldier whole. What dangers were about to await him in the northern mountains? Whatever was about to cross his path, he had do get rid of the issue as soon as possible. Time was ticking faster with every given second.


Reaching Qingce Village faster than he could keep up with, the early adult walked towards the edge of the area. Elderly citizens allowing him to borrow the rat, the chimera placed himself on the vessel. Wise man of many years telling him it was dangerous out there, the soldier heeded such warning. Rowing forward, the waves roared.


Dark aura only getting stronger the closer he got to the next destination, doom loomed over the soldier's shoulder. What was this foreboding feeling he was getting? Keeping his attention forward, the early adult tuned such out. Focus on the raft, focus on moving forward.


As the soldier's rowing continued, the chimera braced himself. Just a little further, and he would be in the mountains. Any second now, and he would be fighting something sinister. Reaching land after about half-an hour of rowing, the chimera disembarked from the human powered vessel.


Overwhelming eerie feeling looming over him immediately upon reaching the southern vale, the early adult scouted the area. Spotting something quite peculiar on the skyline, the early adult headed off towards the southwest direction. What could that have been up ahead? Whatever it was, he needed to investigate it right away.


Spotting a strange blue tree immediately upon reaching the area, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Was this the miasma he had to deal with? How peculiar. He did not know why, but his expectations were far higher set than they should have been. It was time to get weed cleansing. Unsheathing the claymore from behind him, he was ready for action.


Slimes hopping onto the scene with a bright blue aura, the early adult swung the claymore with all his might. Gelatinous creatures coming his way, their hard bodies slapped into the soldier's hips like they owned the mountains, the hyena jumped ten steps back. Something was not right here, for sure.


Blade throwing the creatures backwards, the monsters got right back up again like they were a toy that could never fall down. Monsters bouncing towards him, a layer of metal had become one with the enemy. Rolling right along, the ground shook with a fervor. Knocked to his feet, the enemy's army tripled in size in the blink of an eye.


Raising himself to his feet, the hyena dashed off towards the enemies. Blade clashing with the lesser gelatinous creatures. Three of the singular dozen had bit the dust after about twenty slashes combined. Taking a breath, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Would this deplete the miasma?


Trees remaining in place, the early adult resumed the fight. He supposed, he would have to get rid of all the enemies before the issue would be fixed. But, as he kept swinging forward, difficulties aplenty arose from the ashes. Slimes closing themselves into a metallic wall, his blade had become a useless hunk of steel in a matter of moments.


Nothing doing, a wave of frustration flowed through the soldier. What in the world was going here? Had the slimes evolved into a whole new kind of creature? Throwing such question out the window, he kept his focus on the fight. These creatures were being influenced by the environment, nothing more.


Greatsword strikes blocked one after another, the early adult clutched the sinister dark blue orb. He had no choice. It was time to use the Delusion. Taking a long deep breath, a wave of energy flowed through him. Feeling himself floating upward. Intense heat flowed through his hands.


Scalding waters pulsing through his hands, a steaming eruption had washed down upon the enemies. Metal melting the chimera let the delusional waters do their bidding. Shields tagged out of the race one after another, the army's numbers decreased from six of the nine remaining melting into a pool of nothing, the fight continued.


Deluge cranking itself up to eleven, geysers flowed downward from the ground. Final three Slimes knocked out of commission, the tree glowed with a fervor. Jumping towards it, the branches wilted into nothing. Area cleared out, the early adult stepped down onto the ground. This delusion was special, alright.


It was special indeed.


Uncomfortable feeling of heat immediately overtaking him, the soldier let out a scream at the sight before him. Arms boiling as if he was being cooked over the stove, the early adult's shouts had reached their climax. Everything was burning, simmering, heating up.


Arms tinted pink, the onslaught ended its rampage. Pain throwing him around, the soldier stared at the delusion clipped onto him. This one wouldn't bring harm to him? What a bold faced lie. But, it was what it was. Why should he have expected honesty? Every single delusion had its side effects.


Spotting something peculiar off in the distance near the valley in the west, the chimera cracked his knuckles. It was time to move on. No more concerning himself what was the truth and what was a falsehood. Curving downward, the soldier prepared himself for further action.


But, as the soldier had ran towards the abandoned camp with pottery shelves and carrot crops, a Sumpter Beast with an intense aura jumped out from the ground. Creature's head ramming into him, the hyena yelped. Had he trespassed on someone's territory? He needed to leave straight away, if such were the case.


But, his exit had been cut off quicker than he could ever hope to anticipate. Multiple creatures closing in upon him, the early adult could feel walls build up around him. Where did these creatures come from all of a sudden? Power of rock flowing through them, everything had begun to go downhill fast.


Intense energy overtaking the creatures, the soldier dropped down onto the ground with full force. Hooves breaking him down aplenty the soldier had been a sandbag. Kicks serving up the just desserts, the early adult could feel his vitality break. Where had these beasts gotten such strength from all of a sudden?


Creatures running around in a circle, the early adult rose back up onto his feet. Unsheathing the blade from behind him, regrets tapped on his shoulder. He knew he had no choice but to defeat the monsters in front of him. Running up towards the creature's behinds, the defenses were in.


Blade doing its duty after about forty-five strikes, a ton dropped itself onto the chimera's back. He should have just left the creatures be. Abandoned camp quieting down, the early adult moved onward. He had no choice in the matter, it was merely in self defense. He had to move on.


Jumping across the bed of water, the soldier ascended the cliffsides in front of him. Reaching the top, another set of enemies swooped down upon him. Gigantic birds with metallic wings, the early adult jumped four steps back. Where had these avian creatures come from? But, his thoughts were soon cut off as they swooped down once more.


Knowing he had no choice but to fight, the hyena's blade came into the picture. But, such hunk of metal proved useless. Wings cutting loose, the chimera's legs had become the cutting edge victim upon the food chain. Enemies cutting loose, everything stung for minutes on end.


Closing his eyes, the soldier sighed. The delusion, it was his only hope. Dark aura flowing through him once again, scalding geysers overtook his hands in a matter of moments. Creatures looking almost boiled enough to eat, the fight reached its conclusion with delusional proportions.


But, the fight within was far from over. Intense burning sensation coming center stage, the early adult burst into tears. Arms boiling themselves up once more, everything cracked. What was happening? Deluge eating him away, white patches decorated his skin like they were party favors.


Calming himself down, the soldier kept marching forward. Why was he letting the sinister orb's gift bother him? He needed to numb himself and move onward. He had Miasma to fight. Attempting to turn himself off, the chimera jumped towards the next destination.


Cryo Slimes blocking the pathway towards the valley, the chimera swung the greatsword with a heavy fury. Creatures popping like balloons after six strikes, a wave of confusion flowed through him. These creatures, why had they been acting like the Anemo variant? Had the miasma changed the monster's constitutions? He supposed he would find out the further along he were to go.


Reaching Yaodie Valley, the next round of miasma soon awaited him from the shadows. Larger than normal slimes coming out of the woodworks, the early adult jumped four steps back. Creatures adorning sharp metal wings, the early adult grit his teeth, What element were these creatures, Ingoto? But, he shook his head. There was no such thing.


Slimes flying upward, large pieces of metal had been gifted to the early adult's shoulders. Feeling such, the hyena let out a growl. What were these creatures doing? Ironed spit ramping itself up, the young soldier jumped towards the right and left. Steel bar caught after five attempts, the chimera tossed the object back towards the way it came.


Such defenses proved to be as useless as the last. Slimes remaining supreme, the soldier halted the throwbacks. Right, he nearly forgot, the gelatinous creatures were immune to the their own ability. What point was there in trying to use their powers against them? Snapping his fingers, the early adult let the delusion take him away once more.


Enemies scalded into nothing, the early adult jumped towards the invasive branches. First layer of miasma rotting away, the next storm crashed on it like a tidal wave. Second army of slimes joining the party, the hyena closed his eyes. It was Delusion time again. Snapping his fingers, the heated geysers removed the monsters from the equation one after another.


Second layer of miasma soon decimated, a chill crawled up the soldier's spine. Burning sensation coming back to haunt him, the glass of pain cracked further. Everything cooling shortly after, the early adult let out a huffed breath. This delusion was special, it would bring no harm to him? What a scam. But, he supposed anything was better than arrhythmic destruction.


Spotting a peculiar glowing light up up north beyond the waterfall, the soldier leaped off the edge. Had there been a miasma spot upon Teatree Slope, as well? It was best to head over to such an area if that were the case. Windglider soon behind him, the soldier let the wind lead the way.


Staging his landing after about ten minutes of gliding, the early adult had begun walking towards the slopes. Fears eating him alive, questions had begun to devour the soldier. This delusion, what was wrong with it? Why had it been burning him like it had the enemies? But, as he thought such, he recalled a principle some Fatui Agents would die for.


This delusion, had it fallen under the eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth fallacy? He supposed such could have been the case. If such had been the way it was, nothing could be done. Accepting his fate for the day, the early adult moved forward. Damage given, damage received.


Reaching Teatree Slope, a surprise awaited the soldier. Snake creatures slithering around like they owned the place, the early adult backed multiple steps away. Where had these creatures come from? He could not help but feel these creatures did not belong here. Reptiles slithering upon him, the early adult attempted to shake them off him.


Such had been an immediate failure. Serpents clinging to him as if they were strong adhesive, their fangs swooped downward. Feeling such, the hyena closed his eyes. The teeth with sharp, metallic, cold. Body a reptile paradise, the hyena shook harder. What was he, the temple of eaten?


Reptiles dropped back onto the ground, the early adult's blade kicked into overdrive. Such, however, had barely been enough to quell the beasts. Delusion finishing the job, the steeled himself for the reversal to take him away. But, the tooth for a tooth bit back twice over.


Burning sensation intensifying, the early adult's heartbeat quickened. The geysers, they were worsening, intensifying. Everything feeling ready to melt away, the soldier attempted to unclip the delusion upon him. This tool was causing nothing but issues. The time had come to rescind the gift.


Such rescinding never came. Delusion locked firmly into place, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Just how tight had this object of doom been clicked in? Attempting to undo the lock once more, nothing happened. Sinister orb letting its dominance be known, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the battlefield. Nothing could be done. It had pinned itself upon him.


Miasma up and second snake army up ahead decimated into nothing, the delusion kept striking its double edged sword upon the soldier. Everything only getting hotter with every single fight, the chimera could feel his energy begin to crack. White marks transforming into a shade of brown, everything throbbed. But, the early adult shook such off. He could not falter. He had to keep going.


Moving back towards the southern mountains, invasive roots had been taken out of the picture one after another. Consequences kicking themselves into overdrive, the early adult attempted to numb himself. He needed to get used to it, and move on. There was still far more miasma to take care of.


Cracking his knuckles, the early adult readied himself to head for the southern mountain range. Dragging his feet forward, the world weighed a ton. Had gravity suddenly gotten denser? But, the hyena shook his head. The was impossible, for sure. He was leaping the farthest reaches of conclusions.


Halting his walk for a moment, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Just how far had he been from the southernmost mountain range? Orb folded out into map form, he studied the blue triangle upon the map. Pointer a long way off from Xuanlian, the early adult prepared himself for the long walk ahead.


Spotting Mt. Aocang in the distance, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had there been miasma in other corners of Liyue, as well? But, the chimera shook his head. Even if such were the case, he could not veer off course. Her Majesty could be watching from anywhere in Teyvat.


Curving off towards the southwest, an intense boiling sensation overtook the hyena. But, the soldier numbed himself. Not now. He couldn't let himself get taken away. Pushing onward, a few Slimes here and miasma branches there were delusioned into oblivion. Arms charred aplenty, the early adult repeated to himself on a loop. It did not hurt, he felt nothing. It did not hurt, he felt nothing.


Southern mountain range only getting closer, the soldier's energy had begun to sap further. Weight heavying the playing field, the world around him was as dense as a rock. Or, perhaps two. Pressing onward, a surprise from behind soon diluted everything further.


Snakes tossed the soldier's way, the early adult flinched. Where had these serpents come from? But, his question immediately had an answer. Familiar wooden towers surrounding him, the early adult unsheathed the greatsword from behind him. He had stepped foot upon Hilichurl territory, how had he not seen this area coming? Perception was dead soldier upon the battlefield.


Blade doing absolutely nothing as the snake onslaught continued, the soldier huffed a weak breath. This claymore was nothing more than a paperweight. Why wasn't it able to fight much of anything? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, every weapon obtained abided by a levelling system between the numbers of one and ninety, and this blade had been at the lowest possible point upon such scale.


Claymore not pulling its weight for minutes on end, the soldier tried with all his might to summon a flower friend. But, such had been an utter failure. Spotting a number on his wrist that read six-hundred, an intense wave of uncertainty flowed through the chimera? Six-hundred? Six-hundred what? Snapping his fingers, the delusional geysers took over. Nothing could be done, the power of Dendro was out of commission.


Primitive monsters and their snakes pals decimated after five geyser strikes, the chimera could feel himself begun to wobble. Body feeling like a sandbag tied down like cinderblocks as a tooth came for another tooth, a wave of dizziness had begun to devour the soldier.


Swaying back and forth, Mt. Xuanlian grew ever so closer. Dragging his feet forward, the heaviness intensified. But, the chimera pressed onward. Surely, this weight would be lifted upon him once the sinister orb removed itself from him. Surely, that had to have been the case.


Arms pitch black as he kept moving, the early adult held back the urge to laugh. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, indeed. The delusion, had he been using it far too much? Numbers upon his wrist beginning to blur, the world around him had only begun to spin further.


Reaching the southern mountains, the world of fuzz had begun to take the chimera for a ride. Ground beneath him heavier, the hyena swayed back and forth. Why had everything felt so hard and dense? But, his thoughts were soon mud. Becoming one with the ground, the early adult's consciousness slipped into nothing.


Coming to a few hours later, an unusual face loomed over him. Yaksha giving him an intense stare of indignance, a wave of confusion flowed through him. What was the mountain demon doing here? Hadn't he preferred to not be around mortals? Did someone call his name? If he thought he had done so, he was mistaken. He needed to tell him he had not called.


But, no such words released from the chambers of his partially human throat. Energy a carcass in a casket, the soldier kept himself silent. Raising himself upward, sharp eyes still remained on him. Why was the Yaksha still staring a him with such intense rage? Whatever he had done, he would apologize in full.


"You. Don't throw your life away like that," the yaksha grunted in a slightly loud tone.


Hearing such, the hyena tilted his head meekly. Don't throw his life away? He most certainly was not throwing his life away. What was he talking about? Why was he saying such a thing? Who even called him here? Whoever it was, they should not have done so. Perhaps it was best to send the yaksha on his way. But, he could not get any words in as the mountain demon moved on ahead a smidgeon.


"I'll help you fight the vermin," the yaksha said reluctantly. "Don't use that evil thing on your uniform."


Hearing such, the early adult placed his finger on his chin. What evil thing on his uniform? But, the soldier had quickly come to his senses. The delusion? He supposed to a vanquisher of demons, such object was the bane of all villainy. Nodding, the chimera surrendered usage of the object, for the time being.


First batch of vermin vanquished by his blade and the Yaksha's spear, the soldier blinked. The mountain demon was used a polearm? He did not know why, but he could not help but feel such did not match up with his expectations. But, he tempered such, for now. Did it matter what weapon he used? He supposed it did not.


Yaksha informing him the miasma within the area had three branches, the chimera could not help but wonder. Had some miasma had more or fewer branches to deal with than others? But, there was no time to think about such things. The fight had to continue. Icy Slimes coming out of hiding, the mountain demon let out his usual battle cries.


Mountain demon screaming boring and useless, the early adult attempted to put in as much weight as he could muster. Charred arms stinging with every swing, the soldier held back the urge to scream. Numbing himself, the hyena kept on slashing forward. He could not give into the pain, not now.


Monsters demolished, the first branch of the miasma disintegrated into nothingness. But, the fight had been far from over. Small dragon creatures coming out to play, the early adult backed three steps away. The miasma, had it attracted reptilian monsters towards it? Malicious forces were an opponent to be reckoned with.


Combined efforts taking the dragon out for a loop, the soldier could hear a second series of screams come his way. Miama's source pinpointed, the chimera's blade cruised forward. Enemy fading into nothingness, the yaksha grunted as he leaped towards the tainted branch in front of him.


Second branch rotting away, one remained supreme. Slimes jumping onto the scene, the early adult turned towards the yaksha. Did he really need his assistance for this? He could take down these creatures easily, having energy remaining within him, or not. Sources of the malicious energy's problems soon taken care of, another leap had been made towards the invasive branch.


Final seed of the miasma gone, the yaksha's backside had soon been turned. Mountain demon looking ready to poof away back to his rooftop, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Questions from before repeating themselves, he stared at the short man's backside. Just who called for him? But, he supposed he would never find out. But, a set of words had soon brought him back to reality.


"Your boss wants you to head to Wangshu Inn now," the yaksha said. As he said such, blackish-green energy surrounded him. "Bye."


Yaksha gone as if he was never here, the chimera blinked. He sees now. Someone from the Fatui sent him. He did not know why, but something about such did not feel right. But, the hyena shook his head. He supposed, it did not matter. He would never get an answer to such inquiries.


Reaching Wangshu Inn after about an hour of walking, the boss of the area handed him the keys to his room. Young woman informing him his boss had already arranged everything, the soldier dragged himself towards his temporary accommodations. Reaching his room after about ten minutes of walking, he closed the door behind him.


Uniform soon removed, the soldier stared down at his arms, for a moment. Limbs charred up until the wrist, the early adult could feel himself shake like a leaf once more. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, indeed. This delusion, he needed to stop using it before his entire body was ashes.


Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Glasses put aside, as well, the chimera crawled into the temporary bed. Wave of tiredness almost immediately overtaking him, the hyena closed his eyes. But, as the land of tormented dreams prepared to take him away, one final thought latched onto him like a leech.


Why did the Yaksha help him?


***


"Can't believe Her Majesty sometimes,
Right as we were heading
Out to the factory, that Dragon Masked Fatui
Prances on over to us,
Saying to us.


'Ah, there you are Zavod,
Razem. Her Majesty would like a word with you two.
Everyone looks at us, and I let out a squeak. Please


Don't say my surname out loud like that.
You know, to be honest,
I have never quite understood our factory boss.
Neither does Ryś. He never addresses a single worker by their first name.
Guess he is doing it to be polite? Or as some sort of


Working relationship? I don't have
Any clue. Either way, I do not comment on it.
Though, my factory partner, she says, 'Meow,
Every time you call me by my last name, boss, it feels so weird!'
Ryś exclaimed.


I'm with her on that one, but the factory boss
Says, 'Razem, I address everyone by last name.' He then said, if she has a


Problem with it, she is free to submit something about it in writing, but no
One does that here.
I have heard if a Fatuus is complained about, they get
Severe punishment, or something.
Oh, just thinking about that scares me. Well,
No matter. We are merely factory workers.
Encounters with the Cryo Archon are few and far in between.
Don't know what this might entail, but Ryś and I


Strut towards the palace with our factory boss.
Every time we're in here, I always feel
Nervous. She only seems to want us when she can't find any weak soldiers to
Deploy. Which, I do not quite understand. If


There's anything I have learned living my whole entire life in Snezhnaya, it's a
Harsh world out there. Perhaps
Even harsher than


That of the Sakoku Decree. Ah, nah, perhaps not. Well, anyway, this is what Her Majesty
Relayed to us. 'Head for Chenyu Vale, my lovely rat and bobcat.'
Oh, now, just wait a second, here. Chenyu Vale? She hands a Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb that can
Only teleport us to Wangshu Inn and back to her
Palace. I would like to ask why
She is sending us out on this mission, but


I know better than to question a god's authority.
Now, Ryś, says, 'Chenyu Vale? Okay, Your Majesty, we'll go there for you, meow!'


Now, she doesn't even tell us what we're doing, so I
Open my mouth, to ask. 'Your Majesty, forgive me,' I said. My lips are quivering right about now, I bet.
'Why are we being sent on this mission?'


Those eyes
Of anger, I want to roll up into a ball.


Though, she answers. 'My lovely chimera is struggling out there, my dear rat. Go assist
Him.' Huh. I see, so this is about Siorc again. But, why do I feel this
Eerie feeling that


She's leaving out a lot of information? I
Can't be certain, though,
Even though that is what my gut is telling. Well, that's
Not always right. I bow my head, 'Yes, Your Majesty, right I away," I respond, resisting an urge to
Eep. We teleport to Wangshu Inn. Here goes everything."


Waking up the next morning, a shocking group of visitors awaited the chimera in front of his hotel door. Rat and bobcat chimera waiting outside the entrance, the early adult scratched the side of his head. What were these two doing here? Had Her Majesty sent them?


"Hi again, Siorcy!" Ryś greeted. "Her Majesty told us you were struggling, meow!"


"So, we were called here to help," Krysí added. "The Agent informed us the water and crops around Chenyu Vale are tainted, at the moment. We'll be working together to clean that up."


Hearing such, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Her Majesty, she had definitely, without a shadow of a doubt, been watching him. But, he soon returned to the situation at hand. Did he really need assistance? He did not think so. Surely, fixing fixing up problems with the water and soil did not need a team of three. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. Giving the girls a nod, Ryś looked ready for action.


"It's off to Chenyu, meow!" Ryś exclaimed, practically purring.


Exiting the hotel, the party of three moved towards Dihua Marsh, but as everyone prepared to do so, the Hilichurl parade had made its second march around. Seeing such, the soldier slapped his hand across his face. This army of untouchable Hilichurls had come back for a second round?


Ryś attempting to land an attack upon such creatures with her cat claws, nothing happened. Large bubble of defense protecting them once more, the hyena shook his head. They were still protected? How was this even possible? But, he supposed it was best to leave them alone. They were not harming anyone. Ryś surrendering as well, the group moved towards Bishui Plain.


Panda chimera nowhere to be seen, the early adult shrugged. Maybe the panda chimera had gone back to his exercise regimen. Krysí and Ryś already farther up ahead, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint. If he were to get lost in thought now, he would quickly be left behind, for sure.


Reaching Qingce Village after about twenty-five minutes of fast walking, the raft had been borrowed once again. Ryś moving the oars forward, the chimera seated himself. Krysí transforming herself into rat form, the early adult had been informed of the situation immediately.


Rat chimera informing him they would cleansing the tainted waters as they headed upon the northwestern path, the hyena steeled himself. Were they heading towards the mountainous area northwest of Yilong Port? He supposed that wasn't too difficult of a task to fulfill.


Ryś cruising the raft forward, he could not help but wonder again. Her Majesty, why had she sent these two out here in the first place? If it was merely cleansing some waters, he could do such himself, for sure. But, he supposed it had already been decided. His input on the matter was not allowed.


Reaching Chenyu Vale's southern areas, the early adult could feel a chill in the air. Was it just him, or had it suddenly gotten a lot colder? But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. He was imagining it, surely. Bobcat chimera reminding him they were heading off towards the northeast, the chase was on.


But, immediately upon moving upon the southern pathway, peculiarities stuck out to the soldier. Water everywhere tinted a dark purple, the chimera shook with a fervor. The water in the southern regions of the vale had already been tainted? Running off towards the pier, a Fontaine monster soon hopped out of the water.


"A Hydro Phantasm, meow?!" Ryś exclaimed in astonishment.


"It would seem so," Krysí responded. "We need to defeat it."


"On it, meow!" Ryś shouted. As she said such, here spear had been out in front of her.


Ryś bring out a long, two handed spear, and Krysí taking out her claymore, the hyena removed his greatsword, as well. Would it be of any use to him today at all? He did not know. He supposed he was about to find out one way or another. Peculiar ovular shaped water creatures standing by and doing nothing, the fight had been on the side of the allies.


Bobcat chimera's terrifying fists of fire overtaking the battlefield, the spherical water creature looked as though it had flinched. Seeing such, the early adult readied his claymore. Creature getting bigger and gaining the power of hands, it let out a tainted water punch of doom.


Creature soon becoming dust upon the wind, a rather peculiar set of instructions had come the chimera's way. Ryś informing him they would be performing a spell to cleanse it, the hyena did a triple take. He had to do what now? He wasn't following any of this whatsoever.


Bag of powder handed to him, the soldier tilted his head. Told to toss the powder into the water, the chimera could hardly believe his ears. He had to do what now? Wasn't this littering? This would bring on the wrath of any of Chenyu Vale's gods, if there were any that resided here. Taking a long deep breath, the powder had soon been dropped into the lake.


River soon cleansed of its impurities, the soldier blinked. Just what kind of powder was this? Was it some sort of cleansing salts? The chimera supposed that could have been the case. But, as his thoughts wandered, he could hear something hop out of the water. Turning his attention towards it, shock painted his face a brand new color.


Huge frog with a giant dragon tail behind it, the early adult jumped four steps back. Where had this amphibian come from? Creature swinging its spiky tail forward, everything cracked. Claymore out in front of him, the fight was on once again for no one to witness whatsoever.


Krysí summoning her water rats, confusion soon painted the frogon's face. Attempting to attack the minions, it had soon been slowed down, for a moment. Ryś laying down her terrifying claws of fire, the chimera added his blade to the conversation. Amphibian turning its backside, it was ready to swing again.


But, such swing had been cancelled before it could even begin. Ryś lunging forward with her polearm, the creature had become one with nature. Everything cleared up, the party of three prepared themselves to reach the halfway point amongst the places around. Krysí stating they would be cutting through Qiaoying Village first, everyone headed back upon the pathway.


Moving along the pathway, a new challenger had arisen from further tainted waters had been found upon the northern walk. Weak monsters thrown away with the power of three combined, the next layer of so called cleaning dust had been thrown onto the waters. But, another challenger had soon arisen.


Huge black rabbit the size of a small shrine soon appearing on the scene of the water impurities, the early adult ears burned. Where had this creature come from? Had these waters been portals to another world, or something? Puddles beneath turning purple once more, questions threw themselves around.


"Rabbits, I don't think a creature like this should be in Liyue," Krysí said in a nervous tone.


"Meow, really?" Ryś asked. "Rabbits don't live here."


"They don't," Krysí replied, shaking her head. "The poisoned waters are drawing them near." But, another consideration popped up in her head, a worse outcome. "Or, maybe someone created them." Her voice shook as she said such.


Rabbit hopping upward, a shockwave overtook the area. Tumbling down onto the ground, the soldier grunted. Already on the ground, how annoying. Picking himself back up, the chimera placed himself into a fighting stance. This creature was drawn to tainted waters, was it? Krysí was definitely onto something. Someone created this creature.


Wild, possibly manufactured creature fading into dust, the cleansing ritual soon resumed. Readying to return to the path of heading towards the village, the party of three marched onward. Such had been a short lived attempt, however. Assortment of occurrences lining themselves up, obstacles added themselves to the mix.


Water levels rising themselves upwards towards the elevated hillsides, the soldier could feel his heart skip three beats. How was it possible for the oceans to reach this high up off the ground? But, the rat and bobcat chimera had thrown down the cleansing dust before he could think further about such a thing.


Miasma coming out of the woodworks as the village drew closer, the chimera let out a groan. There had been more miasma? Where had all of it come from? Had he forgot to clear some out yesterday? Branches pulsating, the chimera threw his thoughts away. What was he doing, allowing himself to get lost in thought? He had work to do.


Enemies decimated by the trio's combined efforts, everyone kept moving forward. Delusion not seeing any uses, the early adult let out a silent puff of relief. He supposed, working with a team was far better than dealing with these phenomenons solo. Nearby village only a few paces away, the soldier took a deep breath.


Crossing the bridge, the nearby tea leaf village had soon been reached. Multiple people in the area buying a multitude of products, the party of three attempted to move past them. It had been yet another busy day here, as expected. Generic nobodies moving out towards the opposite direction, the trio readied to head off towards the pathway near Yilong Port.


Heading towards the village's exit, the soldier could hear a fourth pair of footsteps following them. Hearing such, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Who was tailing him? Whoever it was, they were not doing a good job of stealthily doing so. Their steps were louder than ever.


Pushing through the village's exit, the fourth set of footsteps had only gotten louder. Keeping himself on guard, everyone readied to move on. But, the sound of the steps just kept going. Ryś' ears on the top of her head bopping up and down, she had caught onto the situation as well.


Follower no longer hiding, the early adult crossed his arm across his waist at the sight before him. Lion dancer guard revealing himself as the footstep owner, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why was he sneaking around? If he had something to say, he could have just said it.


"Sorry for following you three. Couldn't help but notice you were heading towards the mountains," the lion dancer guard said. "You probably shouldn't. It's pretty dangerous out there right now."


"I appreciate the warning, but I'm a big kitty, meow!" Ryś responded in an energetic tone. "We'll all be okay!"


"Alrighty," the lion dancer guard responded with hesitation. "But, if you need my help, feel free to holler."


Moving along, the chimera broke out into a shiver. Was it just him, or had it been chilly here? Shaking his head, the chimera kept moving towards the northwest. It had to have been his imagination, surely. It had been the season of autumn, at the moment, of course it was a little cold out right now.


But, the further the trio moved, the odder things had gotten. Area foreboding with a sudden layer of mist, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Was this normal weather in Chenyu Vale? He couldn't help but feel it was not, for any particular reason. Visibility reduced to eighty percent, the world was a blur.


Such only continued to worsen the more west the group traversed. Mist getting thicker, the early adult's knees buckled. Had he secretly been transported to Tsurumi Island? He knew such had not been the case, but he felt like it had to have been, at the moment.


Mist soon at its thickest possible point, absolutely nothing could be seen from within in. World a blanket of nothingness, the chimera tried with all his might to not bump into anything. Had someone from Inazuma come here and anger a Chenyu Vale god? But, the hyena threw such assumption away. He was just making up stories now to fill in the gaps. That was not the way to go. Ryś bumping into him, the early adult flinched. Zero visibility was the worst enemy of them all.


"I have night vision!" Ryś exclaimed like she was stating the obvious. "Why can't I see right now, meow?!"


"Ryś, this is fog," Krysí corrected her. "But, this fog is definitely not normal. Something created it." As she said such, her rat tail coiled up behind her. Feeling such spiky behind her, she then yelped. "Found the source." As she said such, her voice shook. Tiny fingers pointing at the culprit, she let out one last hurrah. "It's this."


Fog moving away, a spiky growth revealed itself to the party of three. Everyone's weapons out, the soldier prepared himself. Another one of those strange random growths appearing out of nowhere? Whoever had placed this here wanted to watch the world burn, for sure.


Weapons clashing the growth, spikes fell off the object one after another. Strange spiky ball of doom barely budging after fifty strikes combined from the trio's weapon, battle cries had soon been added to the mix. Shields kicking in one after another, nothing moved, fog included.


Spear and claymores not cutting it, the soldier let out a sigh. He supposed he would have to rely on his delusion once more. Channeling the dark energy, the delusional water geysers had come out from his palms once more. Inorganic enemy boiled, a smidgeon, the defenses dropped themselves.


First layer of the growth removed, the party of three pressed onward. Core looking exposed, the might of the weapons kicked into overdrive. Pyro, Hydro shaking hands with one another. Heated vapor overtook the battlefield. Seeing such, the chimera could not help but wonder. How did the element react with one another?


Core weakened further, the weapons versus the growth's center returned for the second round. Shields dropping down to almost nothing, Ryś readied the final blow. Krysí transformed into rat form, the bobcat chimera lunged upward. Plunging downward, the dynamic duo's team synergy kicked into overdrive.


Polearm and rat teeth delivering the final blow served cold, the fog dissipated into nothingness. Pathway visible again, everyone had begun to move forward. Ryś wiping the sweat from her brow, she moved on first. Continuing to head west towards the wharf, peace had been with them, for the moment.


Peace was a fleeing moment never meant to last. Multiple Fontaine water creatures jumping out of the tainted waters, the chimera slashed the creatures into a group of puddles. Moving forward, more had come onto the pathway shortly after the first group made their presence known.


Army of monsters lined up everywhere, the soldier gulped. Had these creatures been attracted to the poisoned water? But, he knew there was no time to think. They had to be dealt with right here, right now, before the lakes were to gain further toxins. Rat and bobcat duo spreading themselves out, water creatures versus had reached the second stage.


Spherical water creatures proving difficult to defeat, at least one hundred strikes had been blown onto the enemies before their defeat had been finalized. Dust tossed upon it all, the cleansing ritual had soon begun. But, such had not been enough to quell the dangers throughout.


Pathways towards Yilong Wharf flipped sideways, backwards and upside down, a heavy wave of fatigue flowed through the chimera. Had the effect of gravity bent itself out of shape? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Whatever these tainted waters had done, they were too powerful.


Mountainscape sideways, the early adult tumbled. Picking himself up again, the soldier kept trying to move forward. Everything bending towards the side once more, the chimera's buttocks had become one with the ground. Growling, the hyena refused to surrender. Who, or what was pushing him? How aggravating.


Rys dropping down the cleansing dust from her upside down position, the chimera rolled his eyes to wherever the sky could have been. Where was he supposed to toss it, sideways upon the air? There was no way that would work. This was an impossibility to be had, for sure.


Hearing Krysí from afar telling Ryś to drop the dust in the same direction the area's orientation had been in, the early adult held back the urge to scream to pick another method. But, the chimera withheld from doing so. Telling someone how to do something would make him look bossy. Tossing his words away, the early adult sighed. Throwing the dust sideways, it is.


Tossing the cleansing dust sideways upon the air, the pathway soon corrected itself. Tumbling onto the ground like he was a ball on a hill, Krysí and Ryś had soon joined the world of rolling. Picking himself back up again, the party of three headed off towards Yilong Wharf. But, upon reaching here, an inquiry threw itself out into the open.


"Can we take a break, meow?" Ryś asked. "I'm all tuckered out."


"Sorry, Siorc, is it alright if we sit for a bit?" Krysí asked.


Nodding, the party of two sat in the corner. Letting the two take their break, a sea of questions washed the soldier out to sea. Just what had been going on in Chenyu Vale for the past couple of days? Something had been incredibly off about this situation. Thoughts continuing, he stared off into space.


These odd occurrences, could the abyssal gazelles be involved somehow? But, the chimera threw such thoughts out into the floods outside. Why was he always jumping to such a conclusion? Not everything was related to these two. Perhaps, just maybe, this had been a natural occurring phenomenon in this area.


Krysí and Ryś nibbling on tea biscuits, offers had come his way. Declining, the duo soon finished their break. Rat chimera reminding her bobcat partner they would be heading to Mt. Mingyuan was there even any water out in the mountains for there to be anything else to cleanse? But, he supposed he would soon find out.


Not seeing any spots with water anywhere, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was there really any further water to cleanse here? Maybe there had been some sort of mistake. Moving along, the chimera kept his expectations close to zero. There was surely nothing else out here that would post as a reason for concern.


An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.


Hearing a loud splash off in the distance, tainted water creatures added themselves onto the pathway. Dual claymore attack from the rat and he doing them in, the hyena let out a sigh. Was the water near Yilong Wharf manifesting as monsters now? They all had their work cut out for them.


Multiple monsters taken out of the picture one after another, the hyena peered downward towards Yilong Wharf, for a moment. Bed of water looking as though it has eyes, the soldier turned back around. Surely, that had to have been his imagination. There was no way what he just saw was real. Further enemies decimated, the mountains were nearing.


Party of three heading outward to Mt. Mingyuan, the ground had begun to shake underneath him. Feeling such, the soldier attempted to hold his feet steady. Quakes only getting stronger, the early adult fell backwards. Aquatic monster in the shape of a person soon emerging itself from the shakes and quivers, the soldier placed his blade in a leftward position.


Spinning around with the greatsword like it was a top, not a single attack landed, from any angle. Taking a deep breath, the party of three tried once more with all their might to take down the liquid creature. Weapons clashing one after another going nowhere fast, the soldier's eyes had begun to twitch. Was this monster impervious to damage from weapons? Clutching the delusion, one final choice remained.


Scalding geysers removing the creature from this world, the rest of the waters cleansed themselves from harm. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of confusion. Had that been it? Had all the poisons truly been removed from the waters? Everything back to normal, the rat and bobcat chimera turned towards him.


"We'll be going now!" Ryś exclaimed. "See you later, meow!"


"Take care of yourself, alright?" Krysí asked.


Nodding, the rat and bobcat were soon gone without a trace. Tilting his head upwards towards the sky, the moon beamed over him. Seeing such, a wave of shock flowed through him. It had been night already? Just how long had these battles taken? Time was such a fickle instrument of measure.


Returning to the inn, a burning sensation soon overtook the hyena. Holding back the urge to scream, everything stung. Numbing himself, the dragged himself through the inn floors. Agent soon dismissing him for the evening, his feet continued to drag. Reaching his temporary accommodations after fifteen minutes, the hyena dropped himself into his bed. Everything continued to burn, Tears strolling down his face as the land of sleep took him away, one last thought escaped out into the open.


Why was everything so strange lately?


***


"Please, tell my I am dreaming.
Oh, please, now, this has to be a dream.
Unless, I am in a dazed
Reality. The Agent wants me to do what now?
Investigate something odd in Chenyu Vale?
Now, another day of nonsense is upon me.
Guess the Agent just has no real orders


To give me. How can this
Even be? Her Majesty
Always has something for me to do.


Ah, well, whatever this investigation entails,
Looks like I don't have a choice.
Right, whatever
I am am requested to do
Goes. I do not
Have any choice, or say in
The matter. I already know that.


Eh. There's
Nothing I can do about it.
Obviously, I have to.
Unleash the beast. Time to
Get to work.
Here's to another day of nonsense."


Upon waking up the next morning, no traces of any burns were upon the soldier's arms anywhere to see. Seeing such, the soldier blinked. Was this what the Agent meant when he had claimed the delusion was special? The hyena did not know. He supposed such could have been the case. Exiting the hotel room, the Agent had been waiting by the rooftop.


"Soldier, I have no idea what is going on," the Agent said in an uncertain tone. "So, go to Chenyu Vale and investigate further oddities occurring there."


Hearing such, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the sky. He was in for yet another day of peculiar nonsense, wasn't he? Dashing off towards Qingce Village and taking the raft out upon the riverbank, Chenyu Vale had been upon him once again after about an hour of rowing. But, something peculiar soon happened the moment he stepped foot here.


Space around him warping, the soldier had soon found him transported out of the southern vale. Finding himself in a place unknown to him, a carp soon appeared within his damaged field of heterochromatic vision. Golden fish looking right at him, the chimera rubbed his eyes. Had he fallen asleep? Where was he? But, the creature in front of him soon flapped its lips.


"Sorry for pulling you away," the carp said, bowing its head. "My name is Fujin, and I need your help. Could you light some lanterns for me?"


Golden carp talking to him, the early adult jumped ten steps back. He has to do what now? Light some lanterns? This had to be a dream right now. There was no way any of this was real. Pinching his wrist, the early adult clicked his tongue. He was awake. Perhaps, jut maybe, this fish was an adepti. He did not know, but he knew he could not refuse orders from anyone. Shrugging, he nodded.


"Thank you so much!" Fujin cried out in gratitude. "The lanterns are in Jademouth right now. Please help me! I'm running out of power!"


Hearing such, the hyena blinked. Were the adeptus able to run out of power? How strange. Weren't they illuminated beasts? If his father were still a member of this world, he would have asked him about such research. But, he knew that wasn't possible. Moving towards Jademouth for hours on end, one question looped on repeat.


Who was this carp named Fujin? He had never recalled hearing about an adepti like that in any of his father's books from his stolen childhood. But, he supposed there had been many things he had not been able to study, even while in his lifetime. Jademouth soon reached, the lanterns screamed out to him.


Spotting amber colored lamps across the water floating around a big one glowing the soldier grabbed it from the pool below him. All he had to do was light them up, and then his job was done. Dropping the lamp back into the water, none of the smaller ones lit up.


Smaller lamps floating away, the early adult groaned. What was this nonsense? Taking a deep breath, the soldier reset the large lamp. Lights soon shining upon the water after about ten attempts, the lamp stayed upon the water as he finished the first part of the fish's requests.


Lighting up lamps across the rest of Jademouth, the early adult kept the groans going. What was the point in doing any of this? Every single one around the area added to the mix, the carp soon appeared out of nowhere like a ghost attempting to scare an unsuspecting person.


"You're doing great!" Fujin exclaimed. "I need you to light more. Can you head to Qiaoying Village for me?"


Giving the fish a nod, the soldier headed back upon the northern path. But, as he had done so, he let out a sigh. Why in the world was he helping out a talking fish? This was quite the ridiculous turn of events. Reaching Qiaoying Village after about two hours of walking, he had soon reached one of the many lamps to light, the carp soon reared its head again.


Fujin telling him she needed these lights lit up to, the chimera nodded. But, such fixtures had taken forever to light correctly. Such had only been the start of such problems, however. Reaching the next set of lamps, multiple had been far apart from one another. Failing to light them up on multiple occasions, the soldier prepared the white flag.


But, a tip had soon come his way. Fish telling him to summon her spirit carp ability, the soldier crossed his arms across his waist. The what now? Had he really been awake? Staring at a bright green light in the sky, the possible adepti requested for him to close his Eyes. Doing so, he could soon feel himself floating on air.


Carp instructing him to drop the big lamp now, the chimera did as he had been told. Every single fixture lit up, the chimera soon readied himself to head back towards the village. But, as he had reached closer, the early adult let out a sigh. He was getting quite tired of all this ridiculousness. But, he buried such thoughts into the trenches. He was forbidden from complaining.


Coming across yet another annoying lamp puzzle, the soldier completed it after two attempts. The early adult huffed a heavy breath. Was that it? Could he go now? But, he shook the negativity away. If his job was over, the carp would tell him such. Fish soon returning, praise had come his way.


"You're doing great!" Fujin exclaimed. "But, could you do one more thing for me? Could you help me pour some tea?"


Hearing such request, the soldier let out a groan. What was with all these adeptus favors today? Knowing he had no choice, the soldier nodded. Sure, pour tea, what's the worst that could happen? Carp creature telling him to head to Mt. Mingyuan and Teatree Slope, the early adult turned back around towards the village's exit.


Reaching Mt. Mingyuan after about an hour of walking, the floating teapot soon awaited him. Carp telling him to instruct the teapot to pour itself a cup, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Did this fish even need him to do something like this? She could have easily told it to pour it herself. Letting out what felt like the hundredth sigh today, the soldier motioned his lips to speak.


"Pour," the chimera spoke out reluctantly.


Tea pouring itself into the cups around it, the soldier turned back around towards Qiaoying Village once again. Just who was this tea for, anyway? Was it for the carp herself? Could fish even drink tea? Perhaps they could in Wonderland, maybe. But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. Why was he going off about this nonsense?


Reaching Teatree Slope after about an hour of walking, the next teapot awaited him. Carp once again instructing him to tell the teapot to pour, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. Telling it to pour, tea had soon entered all the cups one after another. Fish practically glowing with excitement, she soon spoke with her annoying voice once more.


"You completed all the favors I've asked of you," the carp said. "You're done now."


Told his job was done, the early adult headed back towards his borrowed raft. As he cruised through the water, he could not help but wonder. What was that all about? What was this all for? But, he supposed he was wasting his time trying to make sense of any of it. Moving past Qingce Village and heading back to Wangshu Inn, the Agent soon waited for him.


"You did well, soldier, you are dismissed," the Agent said. "Head back to Snezhnaya within two hours."


Dismissal coming his way, the Agent soon rescinded the Delusion from him. Staring off into space for a moment, a desire threw itself out onto the floor. He did not know why, but he suddenly had the urge to drink some tea. Removing his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket, he folded out the orb into map form.


Liyue Harbor waypoint highlighted, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Teahouse adjacent from him as he opened them, he ascended the wooden staircase. Tall brunette in his usual seat, but opera singer nowhere to be found, the soldier seated himself in his usual spot. Panda chimera soon coming towards him, the soldier could feel a wave of tiredness flow through him. Yínlóng looking ready to greet him, he plastered a smile over his face.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted slowly. "You look like you had a long day. I'll brew you something easy."


Panda chimera brewing the usual bamboo shoot tea, the soldier stared at it, for a moment. What was that sweet scent in the air? Sipping the tea, Yínlóng's pink eyes were soon meeting his mismatched ones. Did he have something to ask him? Whatever it was, he would listen carefully.


"What kind of big bad job did you have to do today?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "Sign it for me?"


Putting his tea down for a moment, the soldier placed his hands in front of him. But, he paused himself from doing so. Would the panda chimera even believe him? He knew it was better to tell the truth. Signing he had to help a carp in Chenyu Vale, looks of confusion had come his way.


"A carp?" Yínlóng asked. "Do you mean Fujin? My grandfather always told me there was some god in Chenyu Vale with that name."


"Sounds like quite the series of coincidences," the tall brunette said in between sips of his tea. "There indeed was once an Illuminated Beast named Fujin."


Tall brunette explaining the history of Fujin, the soldier continued to sip his tea. Perhaps the wise man was right, this carp named Fujin had to have just been a coincidence. Panda chimera soon bringing out a plate of almond tofu for him, the early adult dug in. Sweet vegetarian dish travelling down his throat, the soldier resisted the urge to strip inside his mind. Finishing the last bit of his meal, he stood upwards from the wooden chair. It was time to return back to Snezhnaya.


"Thank you for the tea and tofu, sir, it was wonderful," Siorc said, words slightly more audible. "And thank you sir, for the history on Chenyu Vale, it was very interesting." As he said such, he removed his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Time to return to the permafrost north, his forced upon him home. "I have to go. Take care."


"You take care of yourself, too," Yínlóng responded, waving. "I'll keep up with my exercises, promise!"


Highlighting the military barracks waypoint, the soldier closed his eyes. Icy cold hallways soon upon him, the soldier reached the soundproof room after about ten minutes of walking. Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform put away as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Everything else put aside, as well, Siorc closed his eyes. But, one last thought looped on repeat as the world of sleep claimed him for the late evening.


Could there have been a god a in Chenyu Vale?


He would need to investigate the area further at a later date.

 

[Palamon]

30. Research Institute Phantom Thief 3: Harpoons, Sea Gazelles

"Huh? No. You're joking. So,
Everything has gone back to this
I cannot believe this, Her Majesty, why is
She sending me on
This mission again?
I do not understand, I do
Not get this. I don't
Get this at all.


At all, not one bit.
Get real, Your Majesty.
Another heist? After
I've failed all the previous ones?
No, no, no. This has to be a prank.


Why, Your Majesty?
How come this again?
You really ought to stop this.


Every single time, I fail,
No matter the circumstances.
Obviously, I am not cut out for stealing stealthily.
Ultimately, you should know that.
Guess she doesn't.
How can she keep asking?


Oh, who am I kidding?
For all I know,


The fact I am
Horrible at
It doesn't matter to her, not even a
Smidgeon. She just wants something.


Please, make this the
Last time I have to do this,
Each time I feel even more guilty,
And I just want this to
Stop. No more, please.
Every time, I just feel worse.


So please, make me do something else.
This cannot go
On anymore.
Please end this, Your


Majesty. Please, I
Am begging. But, I
Know what will happen
If I disobey, so that is a
No go. I cannot
Go wander off. I


Must do my duties, or
Everything will end.


So, stop complaining. Do as I am
Told. Do all I am ordered.
Even if I don't agree
And I will feel guilty, I
Likely cannot say no


For, I will be extinguished.
Right, I am a chess piece
On the chessboard,
My feelings don't matter.


I know that already.
Nothing I feel matters
Nothing I think matters
Of all that I must do, though, I
Cannot justify this one as a good thing. The
Equipment I am stealing, those jackals
Need it. So,
This is unfair to them.


Well, all I can do is
Offer my sincerest apologies.
Right. That's all. I
Know I have to steal
Everything she asks for.
Robots, machine, everything
She demands.


I know that by now,


She'll end my life next time I
Have a moment
Of disobedience. I am the
Ultimate obedient soldier.
Look at me
Doing everything I can to prove my worth.


No stains. No holes
Observe me doing all
That you ask of me.


Bring myself to numbness
Everything should feel like nothing.


Don't think, don't complain,
Or I am good as dead.
I am probably on my last warning.
No, I am overthinking.
Get my mind away from


The negatives. I
Have done nothing that would disappoint her.
I am nowhere near my last warning
So, don't fear.


And don't despair.
Look around the
Research Institute and
It's time to
Get to the stealing, time to start
Heisting. It's time to
Turn myself off


Heist like I
Am nothing more than a machine.
Like a device
That only answers


To orders. Nothing more, nothing less.
How will this go?
I do not know.
Should go well


Or might go poorly.
Really, it's rather
Difficult to tell
With way.
Relay my stealth tactics. Leave


No room for errors
Or issues abound.
Wipe out everything around. Diligence is key."


Four days had passed since the hyena had to do work while Ludi Harpastum was on the high tide. Nothingness dying out like an endangered species, the soldier had to return to Chenyu Vale for various high stress inducing activities. Occurrences in the area getting difficult rather fast, the soldier feared for the area's safety.


Heavy miasma engulfing the entire area, the early adult went from place to place within the northernmost area of Liyue to clear out such harmful substances. Other peculiar occurrences happening as well involving carps and tainted water to cleanse, a heavy, stressful three days came and went in the blink of an eye.


Final day involving business affairs of nothing within Dornman Port, monotony had become the closing act upon the performance stage for not a single soul to see. Mundaneness taking over the twenty-four hours, ninety-six hours dashed on by as if the world was rushing itself towards the exit door.


The sound of morning alarm bells screamed out towards the frozen sky above for everyone in the entire country of Snezhnaya to hear. As the sirens kept their rampage going, hundreds of Fatui soldiers begged for the archons above for five more minutes. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal within the military barracks.


The protest about was more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the hyena stretched, for a moment and reached for his glasses. Raising himself from the uncomfortable bed, the time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the early adult placed his uniform over his layered shirts, the soldier could not help but wonder. The abyssal gazelles, could they have been the ones behind the incidents in Chenyu Vale? They had been absent from the picture almost entirely, as of late, something had been rather fishy about such, for sure.


But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. What was he doing, jumping to such a conclusion? He needed to stop assuming they were the ones behind all the horrific happening in every single nation. Throwing out such thoughts into the snow outside, the soldier resumed getting ready.


Work mode switch flipping upward, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching windwheel asters in his hair and ears, the hyena gazed at the rest of his prized possessions seated within the box within damaged eye distance. Turning his jewelry and accessories into weapons, was this truly what he wanted? Rational brain on, at the moment, regret flowed through the soldier.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier stared at the Geo Delusion upon the top of his uniform drawers. The sinister orb, should he make use of it? But, the hyena turned off towards the opposite direction. He should not do such, or his heart will be in danger once more. Turning off towards the side, the early adult continued getting ready.


As the soldier prepared to place his heelless shoes over his currently human feet, a loud explosion disrupted his rhythm. Second boom coming with a vengeance, the chimera ran towards the barricaded window. But, what awaited him upon observing was confusion served cold.


Keeping his eyes glued to the world outside, Hilichurls had been shot up one after another by a masked Fatui soldier as if he had been attempting to hold up the Northland Bank at gunpoint. Second soldier dragging the dead bodies across the snow like they were rag dolls, the early adult blinked. Was he supposed to be unnerved by this or unfazed? But, he shrugged his shoulders. It was none of his business what went on around here.


Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the soldier looked out the paned glass once again. What could possibly be happening here? He knew so far little about the nation he had been whisked away to nearly eight years prior. Turning away from the window, the hyena shook his head. Perhaps, just maybe such was a good thing. The less he were to know, the better.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp about in a loud chaotic rhythm, the soldier put on the most diplomatic face possible. There was no more time to think about such things. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, he turned his attention towards the door. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be performing another heist in the Research Institute." He soon extended his hand, for a moment. "But, it is recommended you priorities recording data about regarding the Legend of the Sea Gazelles and investigate this rumor."


Siorc jumped five steps back upon hearing he would be resuming his phantom thief duties. He has to perform yet another heist? Why did he have to go inconvenience the jackal chimeras by stealing from them for the third time? Can't he just leave them alone? Stealing is incredibly unethical.


The early adult stared off into space. He has to investigate a legend? Why did he have to go and do such a thing? What did this have to do with anything currently at hand? But, as he thought such, yet another loud explosion overtook the area. Hearing such, the early adult flinched. Couldn't people learn to put silencers on their guns? Noise was a drowning sea of surprises no one asked for.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Pay that no mind! Lord Dottore is conducting some experiments."


Hearing such information coming his way, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Of course that had been it. Anything violent involving Hilichulrs was always about that malpracticing malicious doctor. How could he forget such a thing? Taking a long deep breath, the soldier placed his hand out in front of him.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. He knew it was best to just leave such about what went on here out of his mind.


"Good, let's go, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the agent gripped the limb tight enough to bruise. Escort towards Fontaine soon beginning, the soldier let out a sigh as the fast travel began.


Why does he have to investigate a legend now, of all times?


This is quite fishy.


***


"The other day, Rabi came up to me,
Offering something to me. He told me, 'um, uh, don't


Bring Gwendolyn with you.' I give him
Eye contact. And I tell


Him, 'Kay. I won't bring Gwen with me.'
Oh, hmm. He's blushing. Does this dude like me?
Not gonna lie, I do not oppose to that. I don't really care if my future lover were to be a man, woman, or neither.
Eh, that's not what this about, I am
Sure of that. His heart is set on another man. Black Fish Steak bro. He
Then immediately resets himself.


Interestingly enough, he drops all
Those ums and uh stammers he always does all of a sudden:


'I would like us to go investigate
Some 'legend' going around lately.' But, the


Noises almost immediately returned. 'Um, uh, would you be
Open to doing
That? Um, I will pay you a handsome reward.' He fidgets rather nervously.


Guess I did tell him I'm looking to move
Out. If this is for Mora,
I guess I do
Not mind doing some investigations.
Gather some clues about some legend?


Well, I have time.
Even though, to be perfectly honest, I have a
Lot of doubts. This is nothing more than a
Legend, right? Chances are,


This might not be real. Best to be
Honest about my feelings. 'Sure, bud
I'll join you. Count me in.'
Something tells me Rabi


Isn't confident this legend is real, either. Hmm.
Nah. I am just imagining it. I
Very much could be.
Even so, it is best to pursue a lead while it's
Still hot on the trail.
This could go cold almost
Immediately. So, it's time to
Gather information while we still can
And find something
That could be a lead. While
I don't think I have ever heard the full story
Of this legend, Gwendolyn always just stops at the part where they apparently eat people. So, I know
Next to nothing.


Huh. Will that come back
And bite me that?
Suppose it might.


Guess I should learn more when appropriate.
Or, maybe I will
Not need to concern myself with learning such.
Even if we do find these sea gazelles there


Are factors of concern.
Will they even talk to us?
Really I don't quite know.
Yet, it doesn't hurt to try, does it?"


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, something of immediate concern caught the chimera's attention. Spotting large crystal balls the size of a tiny ball drop downward from the sky with speedy velocity, the soldier flinched. It was hailing? Since when did such weather occur in the Hydro Nation of Justice. He could not help but feel confused.


Agent dragging him downward upon the sandy mountain, he had soon been told to watch his head. Placing his free hand over the top of his hair the balls of icy hard doom bounced off his head, for the time being. Placed in the wooden vessel, the vehicle of human powered movement cruised forward.


As the harbor got ever so closer, multiple balls of hail plopped onto the top of the soldier's head for minutes on end. Pellets of doom dodging his protective measures for minutes on end, the hyena let out a scream. Why were they so hard and cold? Further obstacles slamming down onto him, his shouts kept going.


Reaching the harbor before he even knew it, the chimera let out a deep breath. If only he had a hood on his uniform, his hands would not have to do all the work. But, he had soon been dragged across harbor before he could think anything further. Balls of icy doom dropping on the ground as such occurred, caution had been exercised.


Told for what felt like the octillionth time he was not allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine whatsoever, the early adult held back the urge to scream. Tell him something he doesn't know for a change. How many times is he going to repeat this same sentence over and over again? He can hear just fine. He did not need the constant reminder. But, he knew he could not utter such a thing.


Satchel soon placed on his backside, useful information had soon come his way. Agent informing him he will send someone tomorrow to provide him with hail protection, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. By this moment in time twenty-four hours later, this storm would have finished by then.


Agent soon exiting the area, the soldier stared upwards towards the sky, for a moment. Ball of doom continuing to fall, the early adult shook as more drop downward. Some being about as big as a tiny slime, the caution switch inside him flipped upward. Knowing he had to make haste, the chimera ran up the stairs at lightning speed.


Taking the glass lift towards the top floor, a heavy amount of noise overtook the area. Spotting multiple rich people with umbrellas waiting by the Aquabus Station, a heavy wave of envy flowed through him. How lucky these people were to equip with protection from the elements.


Generic rich nobodies buzzing about asking one another why the Hydro Archon hasn't done anything about the outbreak, the hyena flinched once again. An outbreak? Outbreak of what? But, before such thoughts could swim around his in his mind any further, the Aquabus had quickly arrived.


Rich people all barreling on one after another, overhead parasols up, the soldier seated himself the furthest away from the crowd. Melusine tour guide telling everyone to watch their heads, this hail could go through head coverings, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Just how strong was this weather? Something wasn't right with this whatsoever.


Automatic vessel cruising forward towards the capital city, the early adult could not help but wonder. This so called outbreak. What could it possibly be? An illness? But, the chimera shook his head. That could not have possibly been it. Perhaps, just maybe, the incorrect words had been chosen.


As the Aquabus pushed past the Poisson tunnel, the hyena could not help but wonder. What could possibly be awaiting him today? Whatever it could have been, he knew he needed to prepare himself for anything. Sifting through his satchel, for a moment, he had come across a piece of paper in one of the various pockets, the chimera looked it over, for the time being.


Leaflet of Dendro creation informing him of places where the sea gazelles had apparently been spotted, his directions told him to investigate each area listed below thoroughly. Mt. Esus East, the Beryl Region and Belleau Region all listed the chimera could feel glass inside him break. He had to go into the hawk's territory again? He would be in harm's way almost immediately, for certain.


Vehicle of automatic movement soon reaching its destination, the chimera disembarked the vehicle. But, what awaited him immediately upon stepping foot in the city was dangers all around. Hail far bigger the chimera placed his left hand over his head. It was time to move onward.


Knowing the best course of action was to head towards Mt. Esus East first, the soldier had begun moving. Heading upon the northern pathway, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just his imagination, or had something felt terribly wrong here?


As the hyena kept walking, he turned his head towards the right and left. Was something hiding in the bushes? He did not know why, but he could sense a heavy sense of malice in the air. Someone had to have been hiding off around the corner. But, he threw such disturbance away. He hardly had time to think about such things. He had to keep going.


Hail pelting the ground hard and fast with every given step, he jumped towards the right and left. How had the storm not let up yet? Shouldn't such weather have ended by now? Something had been going on in Fontaine, without a shadow of a doubt. But, as he kept walking, conclusions were jumped.


As the balls of doom kept falling, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could this storm have been brought on by the sea gazelles? But, the soldier threw such thoughts off a bridge. Why was he allowing himself to jump to such assumption? Perhaps, just maybe, multiple elemental dragons had been angry at the same time. That had to have been it, surely.


Multiple icy stones dropping down on him from every single angle, the soldier let out a scream. How much more trash was going to fall onto his head? This had been getting quite annoying. But, he knew he had to bear with it. Nothing could be done. He had no protection from outside problems.


Moving past the Chioriya boutique, the soldier swore he could hear someone announce hail styles, now in season. Hearing such, the chimera shook his head. Really? Hail outfits? When would those ever be useful at any given point? This storm would be over by the end of the day, for sure. This sale would drop cold and die as soon as it were to hit.


Tuning the noise out, a second wave of malice hit the ear. Feeling such, the early adult attempted to tune such out, as well. He needed to keep his attention on the mission, and nothing else. There was no time to concern himself with anything else. He had a legend to investigate.


But, the feeling of darkness did not leave, even for a moment. Hearing a roar up ahead, the chimera's knees buckled. Had there been something up ahead? He needed to proceed with utmost caution, if there was something amiss further up along on the city pathway. Steeling himself, the chimera sauntered onward.


Roar breaking out once again, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint. Something had been going on in the city, for sure. There was no way he could ignore it any longer. Walking towards the Adventurer's Guild Receptionist desk, a scene with voltage watted up to one-thousand took the stage.


Baron adorning a feminine sailor suit like outfit punching a gigantic squid and hail with their other gauntlet not being used for combat, the early adult had come to an immediate realization. Could this have been the outbreak the generic nobodies had been whispering about?


Punches continuing onward, everything had begun to take a turn for the strange. Aquatic creature spinning around with blades upon its tendrils, the soldier shook with a fervor. This monsters from the oceans were armed and ready? They had to have escaped from the Fortress, for sure. But, as he kept observing, eyes turned towards him.


Spotting Siorc in the corner gawking at their battle Baron pumped the brakes, for a moment. Why was he standing in the corner, watching them? Didn't he have work he had to get done? How crude of him. His audience was not needed here, whatsoever. Punching the indignant beast, they sent a glare towards the Fatui.


"Do you know how crude you are being right now?" Baron asked, annoyed tone of voice. "Do not stare at me. Move along."


Irritated words dropped his way, the early adult moved right along. Why was he staring at them, anyway? He was wasting his energy on a penguin chimera. He should never do that, or any reason. Continuing to move upon the western path, even more questions threw themselves into the ring one after another.


As the early adult slowly moved through the western points around the city, the early adult could not help but wonder. These sea beasts, had the problem only gotten worse since he had last been in Fontaine a week prior? He supposed, anything could have been possible while he was away.


Jumping towards the right and left once again, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Today was going to be a rough, long dodgy day without a shadow of a doubt. Jumps repeating themselves for minutes on end, movement had been a long puzzle with missing pieces.


Multiple generic nobodies running into their houses, the early adult moved out of the people's way. He supposed there were some obstacles he had not prepared for. Many people continuing to run upon the pathway in front of him, a fear storm was brewing. Population: every nobody.


Storm of humans clearing out, the soldier kept moving. Why was the Aquabus information station still so far away? Had time been moving slower? But, the hyena shook his head. That couldn't have possibly been the case, for any reason. That had to have been it, surely.


But, as time kept crawling, yet another pesky obstacle had soon gotten in his way. Even more sea beasts upon the pathway, the chimera held back to urge the groan at the sight of people fighting them ahead. Earl dropping down leafy punches, and Kaiser barely putting in his weight, two further guests had been added to the mix. Magician and his assistant along for the right, as well, the early adult held back the urge to growl for the second time. This street was far too crowded for its own good.


"Let's get this show on the road!" the magician shouted. As he said such, he faked a disappearing act, cat hat prop dancing around towards the monsters.


"Be amazed!" the catgirl assistant shouted. As she said such, a bobblehead cat had been summoned in the streets. But, another scream threw itself out into the open.


"I chipped a nail!" Kaiser screamed at the top of his lungs. "How ugly!"


Kaiser screaming about beauty, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the sky. The original penguin thorn in his side had been back to his normal self? How annoying. Why was he even out here fighting if he had no intention of actually doing so? But, as his thoughts kept cruising forward on autopilot, the magician's eyes were soon on him.


"Oh, sorry. Are we in the way?" the magician asked. "We are performing a magic trick, as you can see! Making a leviathan disappear!"


Magician snapping his fingers, the leviathan had soon disappeared. Seeing such, the chimera rolled his eye. Oh, boy, what a clever form of misdirection. What a waste of time pretending his performative arts had really done the job. Bologna would taste good right about now. But, even more eyes were soon on him.


Seeing Siorc off in the corner, Earl's eyes practically had stars in the them. Was he watching his fight? Maybe he would like to join the magic troupe again. It definitely wouldn't hurt to ask. Look on his face as if he had somewhere to go, the sparkles faded. Was he in his way? He would move, if so.


"Oh, hi, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Sorry, are we in the way? I'll move!" He then proceeded to blush. "Would you like to join the troupe again?" He then blushed again. A romantic act for two? They should marry on stage during a show!


The soldier clicked his tongue at the pesky fly's suggestion. Join the magic troupe again? No way. Not a chance. He was not doing that again, whatsoever. Never. Not in a million years. Not even if he were to perish and reborn again as a different person. Absolutely not. How dare Earl even suggest that. He was getting further points taken off of his tolerance level.


"Do not invite him," the catgirl assistant responded to Earl, deadpan.


Disdain thrown his way, the early adult shook his head. The assistant still despised him, he sees. Group moving out of the way, the early adult moved onward. Knowing it was time to head southward, the early adult rushed about. Legs erupting into a sprint, the crawl of time had begun to speed itself up.


As the soldier kept on running towards the fountain, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just what was going on today? He could not make heads or tails of anything that had been occurring. Just how long had this storm been brewing? He did not know. It had to have been going on for awhile.


Sky only beginning to get darker, hail dropped down upon the soldier's head. Letting out a shout, the early adult had begun to run faster. Why was this still happening? He needed to get out of here as fast as he possible could. Head a continued target, the early adult let out a growl.


Hearing a gunshot off in the distance, the soldier's heart skipped more than two beats. Just what was going on here? But, he soon had his answer as he ran towards the fountain. Noises only getting louder, sense had soon been made of the racket within a matter of moments.


Champion duelist shooting a kraken within the fountain with her pistol, the soldier dashed off towards the entrance of the information station, hail pelting him aplenty. There were more sea beasts here? Could this get any stranger? Taking a deep breath, the chimera prepared himself to leave the city behind. But, yet another obstacle stood in his way.


Leader of the special surveillance patrol guarding the door, the soldier held back yet another sigh. Why was she standing here in his way? Had there been monsters inside the room? He hardly had time for this. He had to head out to Mt. Esus right away. Sharp eyes on him, demands threw themselves towards the door.


"Hey. You can't go in there. This area is closed," the special surveillance patrol officer said in an authoritative tone.


Hearing such, the soldier sighed. The station was closed? Even if that was so, he had to head in the building. Surely, she could make an exception. If he were to teleport there, the judgement of the Hydro Archon would hammer down upon him without fail. Placing his hands out in front of him, the early adult's palms moved frantically. Signing he needed to go in there, he held back the urge to shout. Drawing an invisible triangle as well, he threw the screams inside him away.


"Alright, I'll let you through," the special surveillance patrol officer said with uncertainty. "You're not trying to cause trouble, are you?"


Shaking his head, the officer soon moved out of his way. Pushing on through towards the room, not a singular soul stirred within, not even the Melusines who had usually been inside. This building had been closed, alright. Had the lift even been on? Dragging himself towards it, he prayed to the Hydro Archon above it had not been inoperable.


Glass lift operating as normal, the chimera stepped upon it. Doors slamming themselves shut, the hyena stared off into space. Silence was deafening, cold, suffocating. But, the noise soon returned as the elevator had reached the fourth and final floor of the city. Stepping out, the early adult had once again prepared to stage his exit.


Moving himself towards the city's exit, the early adult turned his head towards the exit. Continuing to observe the area in front of him, he tilted his head towards the sky. Something had definitely been wrong up here, as well. Could there have been even more sea beasts around? If such had been the case, he would have to fight every single one of them, for sure.


Multiple Melusines ducking for cover as icy stones of doom came towards them, the early adult blinked. The Melusines, where were their hats? Not a single one had been wearing any today. But, he supposed such was not something he had the time to concern himself over.


Dashing off towards the next glass lift, the soldier kept his dodges going. The weather was one step close from becoming a monster. He needed to keep his evasion at the topmost condition, no matter what. Multiple generic nobody's parasols dying, the corpses of fabric piled up one after another.


Throwing himself into the glass box, the city had soon been left behind in the dust. Reaching the outskirts after about two minutes, the hyena shook with a fervor. Was it just him, or had the pressure only begun to get worse here? But, he shook his head. He had to have been imagining it, surely. That was far from the case.


Slapping his cheeks, the hyena stepped upon the grass in front of him. There was no time to concern himself over these sorts of distractions. He had to get to investigating the sea gazelle legend. Moving through the area, for the moment, the chimera kept his eyes open. If he were a sea fawn, where would he be?


But, such thoughts were immediately halted by the sound of a loud roar. Multitude of sea beasts crowding the area, the soldier took out a notebook seated at the bottom of his satchel. Quickly scribbling down his findings, sworded aquatic appendages slapped him around as if he were a paperweight.


First of many creatures throwing multiple layers of hostilities towards him, the early adult jumped ten steps back. Why had the monsters been over here, as well? Just how far did this problem extent? He was in for a tiring day, for sure. Creature looking ready to take him out at any given moment, the chimera shifted through his satchel, for a moment.


Feeling a sharp object in the confines of his satchel, the soldier quickly removed it from its encasement. But, what weapon had been removed gave him the shock of a lifetime. Long harpoon uncovered, the hyena jumped two further steps back? This was his weapon today? That was a spear. This was bad. He was going to lose every single battle, guaranteed.


Kraken crawling towards him, the early adult placed the spear in both his hands. Blades from the opposite end looking ready to slice him into cut cheese, the soldier let out a scream. He had his work cut out for him. There was no way this would be an easy fight.


Blade coming for his sleeves, the chimera's shoulder had been claimed as a prize. Letting out a scream, the soldier spun the harpoon around as if it were about to become a spinning top. Attacks not connecting whatsoever, the chimera studied the monster for a moment.


Sea beast pausing its attacks every fifteen seconds, the early adult could feel a eureka moment coming out of the woodworks. Perhaps, just maybe, only striking when it had a down period would be the best course of action? He knew it was worth a try, but he soon had come to another realization.


Harpoon looking as though it could extend from its pole, the early adult snapped his fingers. Bingo. This was it. His only chance for victory. Jumping back ten steps further the chimera threw down a flower friend. Confusion painting the monster's face, the slimy appendages scattered themselves.


Windwheel Aster falling after three hits, the soldier studied the creature further. Monster pausing movements once again, the hyena jumped three steps further back, button upon the spear pressed, its extension had kicked into overdrive. Distance between he and the creature shortened, the fight was on.


Creature slain after twenty five strikes, the hyena let out a tired sigh. If he were to not be able to hit these creatures, it would be a disaster, for sure. Keeping such fact buried deep within his mind, the chimera readied himself to move northward. Discoveries written down as he moved, no sea gazelles were in sight.


But, as the soldier kept pushing forward, even more seas beasts blocked the pathway in front of him. Large fish with shark tails adorning multiple daggers on the edges, the chimera heart had begun to race. How did theses creatures get so big? Where did they get these weapons from?


Weapons tossed his way, the early adult jumped towards the left. But, such had not been enough to dodge the onslaught. Further weapons coming his way, his shoulder had been claimed as a prize once again. Creatures spinning, the weapons circled upon the air.


Daggers clinging themselves to the hailstones above, the early adult grit his teeth. These fish, did they have bigger brains than normal ones? They were capable of inventing strategies, the entire world had been flipped upside down. Clutching the harpoon, the hyena prepared for a counterattack.


Harpoon doing its duty after six attacks, the early adult kept going. Spotting electricity crackle in the sky, a wave of doom loomed over him. The hawk and falcon were definitely here. If he were to be spotted, he would be their next bounty, guaranteed. Pressing on, the shark tailed fish blocked the pathway for the second time of the day.


Course, sharp tail slamming into his stomach, the hyena let out a scream. What were these creatures made out of, metal? Had mechafish been modified and brought onto the surface world? But, he had soon been slapped by a tail once again. Small pool of red dropping below him, the early adult huffed and puffed.


Enemies turned into sushi after about sixty strikes, the early adult wiped the affected area. Jotting down fish hybrids with shark tails had been spotted near Mt. Esus, the hyena puffed a weak breath. None of this information had been relevant to the investigation. Why was he writing it down in the first place?


But, the hyena shook his head. Surely, recording about this sudden guests would mean something to someone. Perhaps, just maybe, there had been an ecologist within the Fatui ranks that would find this information useful. Putting the note log down, for the time being.


Beach nearing, further obstacles soon kicked in. Hilichurls with sea creature like features upon them, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Were these the malicious malpracticing doctor's escaped experiments, or something? How incredibly annoying. Why should he have to deal with his leftover scraps?


Creatures soon spotting him, the early adult threw down a flower friend. Silk flower friend dancing in place, the primitive sea creatures ran towards it. Wooden clubs pummeling it into nothing, the flower brought to life by his Dendro Vision crumbled into dust.


Element proving to be useless here, the early adult placed the harpoon within his hands once more. Spear extending the creatures on the other side had gotten their little bubble action on. Icy balls of doom freezing them solid, the soldier kept his dodges going.


But slipups soon kicked themselves into overdrive. Ball of ice raining down upon him, the hyena shivered. These Hilichurls how were they able to do such a thing? Had the Tsaritsa granted them her blessing? But, the chimera shook his head. No. That wasn't possible. Monsters could not gain visions, nor did the Archons give them.


Ice attacks slowing down after twenty strikes blown between himself and the monsters, the hyena put his weapon away, for the time being. Would he come across any further enemies of this type as he kept moving forward? He would need a strategy going forward. Beach getting closer, the hyena prepared himself to become target practice.


Hitting up the sands, Electro and Dendro warfare engulfed the skies up above. Hawk and falcon chimeras upon the battlefield, the soldier attempted with all his might to head towards the northern path. But, sharp eyes had soon been on him. Hawk readying his bow, the hyena attempted to keep on moving. Such, however, had soon been impossible.


Arrow barrage raining down upon him, the heads of the weapons decorated him deep. Tips engulfing his arms, in an uneven heartbeat, the soldier held in a scream. No matter how often he were to traverse through here, he was target practice, the next bounty. But, the third party would soon mediate.


"Hon, stop it," Raven demanded, arms stretched outward. "He's just passing through."


"No, Raven!" Robin cried, voice echoing. "He needs to learn how things work around here and whose territory this is!" But, as he shouted such, a powerful force sucked him downward. "Fatui! What are you doing? Cease your villainy at once!" As the vortex kept going, he pointed his hawk talons at the villain. "See, Raven! This monstrous fiend up to no good!"


Sandy vortex filled in with water sucking him in with full force, the hyena's eyes opened wide. When did this obstacle get here? How did this obstacle get here? How could he have possibly caused this to appear? The hawk, he was as bad as the underwater penguins always accusing him of everything. Words bubbling onto his tongue, he readied to prove his innocence.


Such moment never came. Energy destroyed the words died a dishonorable death. Vortex claiming him as a snack, the chimera closed his eyes. It was too late to escape. He was done, finished, dinner, being pulled into wherever the pool of aquatic sandy portal were to take him.


Hawk and falcon sucked into the spinning pool of doom as well, the hyena surrendered himself to the archons above. This was it. He was about to be transported somewhere else. Was he about to reach another time? Another world? Closing his eyes, his thoughts raced. No. This was not a transported into another world story. He was not about to become an overpowered generic spiky haired self insertion character.


Feeling himself fade away, sound had become nothing, the soldier surrendered. He had been swallowed, eaten, a sandy dessert. Everything slipping away, the early adult clung onto his thoughts as a long fall of darkness and silence took him over. Where would he end up when he reached the bottom? Another world? The abyss? Somewhere else?


Opening his eyes as his legs touched a spiky ground, the early adult flinched. Had he been caught in some sort of large bear trap? Jumping off towards the side, he observed the area around him. Large, spacious room with spike traps on the walls, upon the floors, the early adult let out a groan. What was he? A ripped, brown hat wearing adventurer who was a temple explorer? Was a big ball going to come out of nowhere and chase him, as well? But, another rather peculiar object soon caught his eyes.


Robotic penguin with a sword in its right hand, the early adult titled his head. What in the world was going on here? Maybe he had been transported into another world and had been reincarnated into a self insertion product of an author's imagination after all. Spikes dissipating after a twenty seconds, the bird duo had soon come crashing down.


Hawk's eyes soon on him, the soldier let out another sigh. He was about to be the target of another arrowed attack any second now. Robin turning his backside, he soon dashed off towards the door. Seeing such, the early adult shook his head. Did this man really despise him this much? He needed to find a better hobby than hunting prey all the time. But, the soldier kept such thoughts to himself.


"Let me out!" Robin shouted. "I refuse to be near this criminal!" As he said such, he banged on the domain door.


"Hon, looks like we can't get out of here until we clear this story with that little penguin over there," Raven responded. As he said such, his loose hair upon his head twitched about. "Call a temporary truce?"


"Only for you!" Robin exclaimed. He then pointed at the vile Fatui. "But, as soon as we're out of here, if this fiend steps anywhere on my territory, he's asking for it!"


Reluctant truce coming his way, the soldier rose an eyebrow. This justice hawk would only do things if his partner said it. If he told him to drop his hostility permanently, would he do that? But, the chimera shook his head. That would never happen, for any reason. A delusion would fall out of the sky for such line of thinking any second now.


Dark blue thinking robot tapping its toes near the spike traps, the hyena tilted his head. Was this mechanical bird trying to communicate something? Whatever it was trying to say, he was none the wiser. Bouncing about clicks and low frequency beeps hit the floor for minutes on end.


"This creature, what's it doing?!" Robin asked in a defensive tone. "If it wants to pick a fight, it's going to get one!" As he said such, he dropped his talons towards it. Mechanical bird jumping up in fear, Raven stepped up to the plate.


"Ah, no, hon. It's talking in code. Let me translate?" Raven stated as a question.


"Go ahead," Robin responded, cheeks red. As he said such, more mechanical beeps kicked through.


"Salut! Je m'appelle Prince Thelxie. Ça va?" Raven translated. "Pouvez-vous m'aider a terminer mon historie?"


"What do you mean this thing wants us to complete its story?" Robin asked in disgust. "How do we not know this thing is a villain in disguise?"


"Hon, I highly doubt Prince Thelxie is capable of that," Raven said. He then turned towards the Fatui. "In any case, we cannot leave until we complete its story. Fatui, you don't mind cooperating with us until we all escape do you?" He then turned his eyes towards his lover. "I will ensure my boyfriend will uphold the temporary truce."


Robot penguin speaking in Fontainan morse code, the early adult could feel a wave of defeat flow through him. Two languages he had not yet studied. He would be incredibly useless here, for sure. Knowing he had to go on with the story, the soldier pressed onward.


Raven translating that the first hurdle was clearing the path of its traps, the hyena backed six steps away. They had to clear out the traps? How was that going to even be possible? But, he supposed he would have to look around the room and find something to get rid of it.


Finding a strange tile puzzle on the side of a hallway, the chimera pressed a button. Banner on the ceiling informing him to align the tiles in a certain pattern, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. How would something like this stop traps from activating? But, he supposed he would have to mess around with it and find out.


Hopping on top of the first of nine tiles, a sun image appeared. Seeing such, the early adult hopped upon the second tile. Moon image appearing, the hyena moved onto the third one star image showing up, he tilted his head. Did the sun, moon and star have to match, or align? He was not sure. But, he knew he had to figure out a solution.


Every single tile flipped to present an image, the puzzle down below let out a grating sound. Squares flipping back around to show nothing, the chimera flinched. Had he gotten the pattern wrong? What was he supposed to do? Taking a deep breath, he tried again.


Pattern not the correct one once more, a random button rose upward from the ground. Text on the button reading hint in bright bold letters, the chimera pressed it. Two tiles flipped over with the same shape, the soldier jumped four steps back. The symbols had to match in the row they were in? Was that the answer?


Every single tile flipped over in a triple pattern, a loud ding overtook the area. Announcement screaming out deactivating one trap, the early adult clapped his hands together. Bowing his head at the hint button, his gratitude had been sent upward towards the archons above.


Traps cleared out from both sides, the mechanical penguin hopped along the cleared out path. But, what awaited in the next room had been a surprise for the ages. Robotic enemies looking ready to smite everything around them, the soldier prepared his harpoon. Prince hopping around, its prop sword launched at the enemies.


"It would seem we have to fight to continue the story," Raven explained. As he said such, the loose hair on the top of his head moved.


"That's it?" Robin asked. "Let justice be served upon an Electro platter!"


Robin flying upwards towards the ceiling letting down his electrified arrows, multiple mechanical enemies had been zapped out of existence one after another. Not even getting a chance to get a single attack in, the soldier waved the white flag. This was the hawk's prey. He should not involve himself, or the truce would end, instantly. But, Raven soon let his shouts be known.


"Hon, let Prince Thelxie have a turn?" Raven stated a question.


"Fine! It can have two attacks!" Robin shouted. But, the mechanical penguin hopped in protest.


"Dix," Raven translated.


"Ten? This prince is getting greedy!" Robin shouted.


Robin letting Telxie have its ten attacks of justice, he soon tagged himself back into the ring. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but sigh. Why did this man always insist on being the star of all justice? Couldn't he let others be the star for once? Raven soon joining in on the fight, the hyena threw himself into the ring, as well.


Mechanical canines and other beings becoming one with the ground, the next room had soon come open. Next corridor with a broken pathway, the hyena could not help but wonder. What was this legend anyway? Did it have something to do with the sea gazelles? Still not seeing anything of the sort, he put a pin in such thought, for now.


Falcon chimera soon stating the only way to continue to was rotate stone blocks into the correct orientation to continue, he put himself to work. Bridge soon formed the penguin prince grossed valiantly. Group of three traversing, as well, the next hurdle threw itself into the mix.


Another room with traps everywhere that needed to be dispelled, multiple peculiar puzzles had been solved from one end to another. Spike traps dead in their tracks, the prince's accompanists pushed forward. But, as the group kept on going, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Was it just him, or was he sensing the presence of a dangerous creature here?


Pushing forward, multiple other puzzles had been done and dealt with. Looming feeling of doom only getting stronger as the domain's final rooms loomed ever so closer, the chimera prepared himself. What would await him in the next room up ahead? He supposed he was about to find out whether he liked it or not.


Final room soon reached, a monster of many terrors awaited the soldier. Large shark with metallic teeth letting out a roar, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. What was this creature doing down here? Was this the final hurdle to complete the story? But, a comment had soon come his way.


"Hold on, that's not how this legend goes," Raven said. "There was never a shark in the original story."


"Villainous interpretation, I bet!" Robin shouted. "Better kill it so we can get out of here!"


Robin flying upwards towards the ceiling, his bow glowed a bright shade of purple. Arrow of lightning dropped down upon the enemy, nothing happened. Hawk trying again once more with Electro arrows in a flurry, nothing happened. Anger mounting a coordinated barrage, nothing happened.


Raven stepping upwards towards the plate a book of spells had soon floated underneath his hands. Basic Dendro spells thrown at the large carnivorous fish, nothing happened. Attempting to hold his attack for a moment before trying again, nothing happened. Throwing a strange weapon made out of rose thorns, a triple whammy of nothing overtook the battlefield.


Neither birds attacks working, the hyena tossed down a flower friend. But, such had proved fruitless, as well. Windwheel Aster not able to form a dent upon the shark, the chimera snapped his fingers in defeat. Was this creature immune to Electro and Dendro? He was useless on all fronts, if such were the case.


Robin not giving up, nothing happened. Arrows soon eaten by the shark as if they were a midnight snack, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Was this creature hungry? What a disaster. Every single one of the hawk's arrows eating, the hyena readied to wave the white flag. If it would eat anything, they were all done for.


No solutions coming through, the soldier stared at the penguin prince in the corner. Perhaps, just maybe, this was its fight and not theirs? Hopping upward, the mechanical creature turned towards him. But, no understanding had been reached. Raven speaking in Fontainian shortly after, the creature moved forward.


But, no dents had been made. Mechanical penguin's sword unable to do anything, the chimera sighed. Was nothing going to work? How could this be? Would he be here forever until the story were to come to a conclusion? Text on the wall stating the heroes were struggling, the soldier sifting through his satchel, for a moment.


Harpoon taken out, the soldier took a deep breath. He did not know if using such weapon would work, but he knew it had to be worth a try. Holding the weapon crooked, the pole soon extended. Weapon reaching the shark, the creature let out a scream. Enemy sparking up a storm, the penguin prince had soon been on the frontlines.


Weak spot exposed for the entire world to see, the chimera trio and Thelxie took a bow as the shark vanished from existence. Large banner on the ceiling reading story complete, the exit door had soon appeared in the center where the enemy once stood. Raven gazing at his partner, the loose hair on his head wiggled once more.


"See?" Raven asked as if he were about to say he told him so. "Isn't working together better than working against as enemies?"


"I'll only work together with you, not the Fatui!" Raven exclaimed, pointing at the Fatui. "Next time I see you in my territory, justice will be served to you!" As he said such, he and his partner exited the domain.


Exiting the domain as well, the soldier heaved a sigh and lowered his head towards his shoulders. He was forever the Hawk's bounty on the top of his hitlist. Some things would never change. Tilting his head towards the sky, for a moment, the chimera jumped three steps back. It was already evening? He needed to go perform the heist now. Removing a slip of paper, the soldier read over the first location.


Paper demanding he head for the strange laboratory ruins with floating water cubes, the hyena shook with a fervor. He had to head where now? The Central Laboratory Ruins? How in the world was he supposed to pull of a heist inside cubes of water? This was getting ridiculous. Why did Her Majesty want him to do this?


Knowing it was best to head to this location through Marcotte Station, the early adult dashed off towards the bridge. But, as he kept running, he could not help but wonder. Just what point was there in making him perform heists? He had not succeeded in enough of them for this career to ever be feasible.


Dashing across the bridge, the soldier had begun to run northward. But, the thoughts kept on rolling in. Surely, there was nothing of value to steal upon these floating cubes. Why even bother? He knew this would not end well. Hail pelting him as he kept on running, the chimera accelerated his sprint.


Storm still going, the early adult could feel a wave of confusion tag him from behind. Was it normal for hail to last this long? Something wasn't adding up. But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. Maybe it was just a natural disaster. Surely, it would end by the time midnight rolled itself around.


Reaching Marcotte Station after after fifty minutes of walking, the soldier hopped into a nearby bush. Switching over to his heist uniform, the early adult prepared himself for failure. This would end in failure, for sure. There was absolutely no way he would succeed in any capacity.


Reaching the scene of where he would be forced to stage his crime, the hyena took a deep breath. Gazing upward at the floating water cubes up above, a wave of shock flowed through the hyena. The cubes were high off the ground. How in the world was he supposed to get up there?


Finding the jet wind glider he had stolen last time inside his satchel, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Why was this in here? But, he supposed he was grateful such had been left for him. Mechanical wind glider locked onto him, the wind would lead the way. Reaching the first cube up top, the chimera stared at the objects in front of him.


Spotting monitoring robots the chimera stared off into space. Why did he have to steal such a thing? Maybe this wasn't a good idea. Pocketing the object, guilt flowed through him. Why did he have to do this? This wasn't right. Weren't these research bots? This was wrong, and he knew it.


Moving towards the second cube, the chimera took a long deep breath. Spotting more robots, the soldier prepared himself. But, as he jumped towards the commodities Alarm setting off, the early adult jumped five steps back. These things were armed with an alarm? He was getting caught, without a doubt.


Hearing shouts in the background, the early adult had his wind glider push him towards the next cube of water. It was over. He was finished, caught purple handed. Any second now, and he would would be shot down, thrown to the sharks, seafood. Any second now and everything would be over. Why was he being told to heist again? He was never successful.


Reaching the third cube, the hyena could hear someone jetting towards him. It was over. Any second now and the heist would fall apart, like always. He was the worst phantom thief of all time. He would go down in the history books as the how to not go on a stealth mission, for sure.


Folu soon up in the air with a look a disdain on their face, the hyena sighed. One of the researcher jackals was here the entire time. He should have known. This was a big mistake of an order, for sure. What did Her Majesty need these machines for? She had plenty of her own technology. Well dressed jackal shaking they head, he let their voice be heard.


"Tsk," Folu said, clicking his tongue. As they said such, they grabbed ahold of Thiefer's stolen wind glider that was not rightfully his. "What are you doing, thiefy? Stealing again?" He then lowered his eyes into a squint. "You are robbing us of so much of our research! Why are you so dead set on doing this?"


Folu lowering his jet glider towards the ground, not a single word released itself from the confines of his throat. What could he possibly say at a time like this? He was being forced to steal? He was being ordered to? He knew, whatever he could have said would only make matters worse. Keeping himself silent, the jackal and he had soon reached the ground.


Sharp eyes soon on him, the chimera's face sunk. Were they expecting an answer? Arms soon crossed around their waist, the soldier's head sunk towards his chest. What was he supposed to say in a situation like this? He knew no matter what he were to explain, he would be shouted at, but a surprise soon hit him across the plate.


"Alright, fine, thiefy, take them all," Folu said, arms still crossed around their waist. "Got plenty of backups anyway."


Hearing such, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. Why was he letting him go? Was there some sort of catch? If they had planned to tell the special security patrol, he would be thrown away in the fortress, guaranteed. Tilting his head, the early adult gazed at the researcher jackal. Surely, there had to be a catch.


"You look like you're gonna ask me what's the catch," Folu said, shaking his head. "There's no catch, thiefers. Go ahead, and take them. I'm not going to tell anyone."


Folu whistling as they walked away, the early adult blinked. Was this really happening right now? Surely, there had to have been a catch to all this. But, he supposed he should be grateful that he was being let off easy. Job done for the day, the chimera prepared for his return to the Court of Fontaine.


But, as he pushed onward, the hail transformed itself into oil rain. Golems coming out of nowhere, as well, the hyena made a run for it. Nope. His job was done for today. No more battles, no more heisting, no more of anything. Jumping onto the aquabus, the enemies were out of sight, out of mind.


Reaching the Court of Fontaine after about half an hour, the chimera could hear someone yell at him from afar. Voice echoing near the hotel, the soldier walked towards it. Ginger Fatui waiting for him, the soldier gave her a glare. Did she have to shout soldier for everyone to hear?


"A room has been reserved for you. Head to it now," the ginger Fatui demanded in a loud tone. "Your job is far from over, soldier." As she said such, he had been dragged inside.


Pushed into his hotel room, the door had been slammed behind him. Hearing the loud booted footsteps get quieter as the second marched about, the chimera let out a yawn. Weaponized hairpins, earrings and heist uniform soon removed, the chimera slipped into the hotel bed. But as the world of sleep readied to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


Something is off.


***


Hearing a loud knock on his door in the stark of night, the hyena rubbed his eyes. Removing himself from the bed, he opened the entrance a smidgeon. Seeing the ginger Fatui on the other side of the door, the chimera rubbed his eyes. What was going on, did he have to perform another heist? It was too late for this.


"Soldier, we're going to Snezhnaya now," the ginger Fatui said, grabbing the soldier's hand. "A little squealer was caught."


Hearing such, the soldier tilted his head. A squealer had been caught? But, before he could think any further, a blinding light soon engulfed him. Why was teleporting still such an ordeal tough on the eyes? Soon in front of the palace doors, the hyena let out a gulp. Stepping foot in the palace, an ocean awaited him.


Thousands of Fatui standing in the palace from floor to floor, the chimera's knees shook. What was going on here? Why were there so many people in the audience? Young male Fatui in front of Her Majesty with a look of fear on his face, the chimera's eyes pulsated. This soldier, he had to have been around two years his junior.


"Your Majesty, I humbly beg for your forgiveness!" the unknown soldier pleaded, lowering himself to his knees.


Twisted look growing on Her Majesty's face, the hyena could feel a memory from the past flash through him. There was about to be blood spilled. There was no worse crime than disobeying the Cryo Archon. Tsaritsa letting out a haughty, the next stage of the humiliation soon began.


"It's too late for forgiveness, my lovely soldier," Her Majesty said, words cold. "You blabbed. I don't need you anymore." As she said such her left leg had been crusted into her right thigh. "My lovely soldier, grab the rifle."


Masked Agent passing off the sniper rifle towards the Cryo Archon, a heavy wave of shock flowed through the soldier. What was going on here? Wasn't this far too strong of a punishment for blabbing a secret? Surely, it had to have been an accident. Gun soon raised, a tea party was ready to start the banquet.


As the tea party readied the signal, bullets invited themselves to the table. Present received by the squealer, the weapons shook hands with the receiver. Cups raised in lieu, the rain continued onward. Bright red juice pouring out onto the carpet below, the festivities were over.


Former soldier no longer of this world, the soldier's heart had begun to race four kilometers a minute. Right. This was what happened to people who disappointed Her Majesty. If he were to ever fall out of line, this would happen to him next. Exiting the palace, his chest was a jackhammer. Wave of dizziness flowing through him, the hyena had soon become one with the ground. Consciousness fading, one last thought slipped in.


Obey, or die.


***


"It seems that we aren't haven't
That much success with finding these sea gazelle. Um, uh,


I don't know. Maybe I
Shouldn't have suggested we do this.


Sea gazelles. I don't
Think they'll be easy to locate. But
I am on a mission, I offered to pay
Lonan after all. Um, uh,
Lean a little closer? Yes, you.


No. Who am I talking to?
Oh, well, um, uh.
To be perfectly honest, I asked Lonan to assist me to


Get him away from Gwendolyn. I do not like how she treats him.
Oh, uh, um,
I know it is not in my place to do that. I could
Not just do nothing. He's been telling me he's thinking of
Going to live in Petrichor, so you know, I ought to offer him a


Way to get some
Extra Mora, right?
Lonan, even if we don't find these gazelles, I will still pay you, so
Let's keep looking, alright?"


Finding himself back into his hotel room, a wave of bewilderment flowed through him. Shaking with a fervor, the scenes prior flashed through his mind. Had he just woken up from a nightmare? Reaching for his glasses, the early adult rose from the bed. He supposed it didn't matter either way. It was time to get ready for work.


Ginger Fatui standing by the door, the early adult shook once more. He did not know why, but he could feel a heavy wave of indignance radiate from her. Had he done something to make her cross with him? What could he have possibly done for such an outcome to occur?


"Fainting after seeing a little rat die! You're pathetic, soldier!" the ginger Fatui shouted.


Words coming his way about being pathetic, the soldier remained silent. What was he supposed to say in a situation like this? There was nothing he could say. The ginger was right; he was pathetic. He should grow a pair of skin. Ginger letting out a sigh, the early adult's heart skipped a beat. What now? Did she have more insults to gift him?


"Just continue on with your investigations for now until evening," the ginger Fatui commanded. "Then continuing your heist from there."


Orders given, the ginger Fatui sighed. He has to continue the heist? Why is this still happening? He had to keep stealing from the jackals? This has got to stop. No more of this. Surely, by now, Her Majesty had plenty of stolen goods. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter.


Figuring the best course of action would be to head for the Beryl Region, the soldier exited the hotel. Walking towards the city's entrance, he seated himself upon the Aquabus. But, as the automatic vehicle left the area, multiple thoughts muddied together all at once.


As the vessel cruised forward, the chimera could not help but ponder. Why did he have to witness a public execution? He did not wish to see that for any given reason. But, he knew choice was not allowed in his life for any given reason. If Her Majesty wanted him to watch someone be removed from this world, he had to.


Thoughts continuing to roll, the soldier stared off into space. That soldier, what could he have possibly squealed about that could have cost him his life? Whatever it was, it must have been something grave. Say one wrong thing, and blood would be spilled. Such was the life of the Fatui.


Stares continuing, a pebble rolled around in the soldier's brain. It was best to remain silent. Never saying anything. It was for the best. Why risk his life saying the wrong things to the wrong people? It was always better to remain quiet, silent, diligent. The less he were to say, the better.


"We've reached your destination!" the Melusine suddenly called out.


Loud voice interrupting him, the hyena flinched. Huh, he was near Poisson tunnel already? When did that happen. Moving towards the ledge, the soldier deployed his windglider. Landing upon the sands of the Beryl Region, the soldier prepared himself for takeoff. It was time to continue his investigation about the sea gazelles.


But, immediately upon landing, a scene awaited him. Sea monsters with sharp string ray bodies and look of an amorphous blob with a raindrop shaped head looming around everywhere stretching from end to end, the soldier could feel the world stop, for a moment. Hail returning with a vengeance, as well, the chimera let out a groan. Not this again. The storm wasn't over?


Monsters all the way across the mountains and down below, the hyena shook with a fervor. Why had there been so many sea beasts here? What in the world was going on? Had something happened overnight? But, he already knew this location had been listed upon the paper the day prior.


Monsters coming towards him, the soldier let out a grunt. Had he already been spotted? Every single creature below and at the peak of the mountain pouncing towards him, the hyena jumped six steps back. They were rapidly approaching him. There was no space to attack, he was doomed.


Creatures laying down their claws the soldier had become one with the ground. Large creatures slashing every portion of him with all their might, the hyena could feel his energy drain away. Squirming the early adult attempted to break. Why were these monsters so hostile today? Something wasn't right here.


Eventually breaking free, the early adult released the harpoon of doom. Creatures fading to dust one after another as the fortieth and final attack had been let loose, more had soon come out of hiding. Harpoon continuing its rampage, the early adult swore he could see a hit counter pop up towards the sky. What was he, a big breasted valkyrie with pistols currently in training? But, the chimera shot such thought down the mountains. Wrong universe.


Enemies slain, the soldier ran off towards the western path. But, as he continued to do so, questioned raced inside him. Just what was going on here today? The atmosphere was thick. He could not help but feel something had gone terribly wrong. Could someone have been behind this? Shrugging, the early adult kept the investigations about the sea gazelles going.


But, absolutely nothing regarding the legend had been come across the further northwest he were to travel. Not a single trace of their existence yet uncovered, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Had there really been gazelles spotted here? He couldn't help but feel the traces of their existence had been wildly exaggerated.


No traces of any sort of fawn like sea creatures anywhere, the early adult could not help but wonder. Perhaps, just maybe, he could attempt to track their scent? Realizing such, the hyena's cheeks grew red. Why would he even think such a thing? He is not a bloodhound. His sense of smell might have been stronger than one, but there was no way he would ever try such a thing.


Rescinding the never, the early adult sniffed up a storm. But, no notable scents stuck out to the solder. Smelling nothing but the sea water on the air, the chimera huffed a sigh. Of course this wouldn't work. Why did he assume it would? Not all creatures had a scent to follow. How ridiculous of him to even draw such conclusion. Ending his whiffing, the soldier kept heading northwestward.


But, the further west he travelled, the stronger of a scent that came his way. Gigantic army of sharks with metallic teeth charging his way, floating upon the air, the chimera's eyes opened wide. What was going on here? Why were there sharks following him? He had to get away now.


Running as fast as his legs could currently carry him, the early adult huffed a breath. Tail drenched in sweat behind him, the early adult let out a scream. When did his tail pop out? How embarrassing. Sharks nibbling on down upon the appendage, the hyena kept his screams going? First it was out, now it was bitten, how humiliating.


Sharks shaken off, the early adult's tail slapped down upon the enemy. But, such had barely done anything. Harpoon soon removed, the soldier dashed off toward the beaches. Perhaps, the further he got away, the less interested they would be in continuing the fight.


Such had been a grave mistake. Sharks cruising towards him, the early adult kept running. Right, how could he possibly forget? They could track his scent? How dumb of him to forget such a thing. Teeth shimmering upon the sun, there had soon been a target upon the hyena's back.


Metallic tail rammed into his stomach, the early adult hissed. These sea creatures, why were they trying to fight him like this? Were they programmed to go after anything that had a pulse? Further members of the army closing in, he was cornered. Space was a dead soldier upon the battlefield. Gone, without a trace.


Enemies continuing to zero in, the soldier was a punching bag. Metallic ends continuously slapped into him, the early adult could feel his will begin to sway. These monsters were too much. He was outnumbered. He was going to lose, for sure. But such attacks had only just begun. Jaws dropping, snack time would soon begin.


Multiple sharks nibbling on the hyena's sides, the hyena closed his eyes. The teeth were sharp, invading, intrusive. Bites of doom continuing, the chimera attempted to shake the sharks off, one after another. But, such only resulted in further bite downs. Teeth only getting deeper, an invisible white flag had been raised upon the battlefield.


Sharks eventually letting go, the early adult took a deep breath. What was he doing, giving up? Such could not happen. Harpoon soon extended, and ready, the ruffian sea beasts had been poked to smithereens after fifteen attempts. Fifty-two strikes administered to the army together, they had soon become nothing but scrap metal.


Red juice flowing downward, the soldier fell down on the ground. Feeling his blinks getting slower, he laid down on the ground, motionless. Was this what it felt like to other people when he bit them? It had to have been excruciating. Trying to hold on, the chimera weakly clawed through his satchel, for a moment.


Coming across bandages and first aid in a small compartment deep within the pits of the container, the early adult meekly patched himself satisfactory enough to halt the further dripping. Raising himself back up towards the ground, the soldier readied to continue the sea gazelle investigations further.


But, as the chimera kept on going, the hail had only continued to get worse. Placing his hand over his head, the hyena had begun running. This storm, would it ever end? Although, such had only been the beginning. Hearing a loud roar across, a surprise soon kicked itself into overdrive.


Dark blue dragons flying across the sky with a menacing aura to them, the hyena backed six steps away. Where had these creatures come from all of a sudden? Weren't dragons a rare sight in Fontaine? Those flying lizards up above, could it have been the legendary Hydro Dragon? No. There was no way. He had to have been seeing things.


Dragon soon spotting him, a sight to behold caught the hyena's attention. Creature staring at the hail falling, the hyena tilted his head. Why was it observing the weather like that? Was something wrong here? Creature flying towards him, the early adult's harpoon was ready and waiting for action.


Such usage of his weapon had been cancelled before it could even begin. Dragons opening their mouths up wide, the hail had soon been devoured like an afternoon snack. Creatures smacking their lips, a wave of bewilderment flowed through him. What was going on here? Why did they just eat the icy rock stones?


Flying lizard swooping down towards him, the balls of hail had been fired at him like he was a their prime target, the hyena attempted with all his might to dodge. Such had been a failure of many spectacular proportions. Obstacles appearing left, right and center, moving away had been all but impossible.


Next attack looking ready to destroy him, the early adult prepared his harpoon. Surely, this would end this fight once and for all. Extending the spear towards the sky, the chimera let out a loud battle cry. It was time to perform some dragon slaying. Hydro Dragon or not, this creature had to be vanquished.


Such vanquishing never came. Enemy completely unfazed by his weapon, the hyena's eyes twitched. Were these creatures immune to the power of the whale hunting materials? He was doomed. It was over. He was as good as about to lose the battle. This was about to be his downfall. The end of the road, his defeat.


Large hail stones the size of a big slime coming towards him, the early adult attempted to dodge. Cold, hard balls of ice slapping down on him, the early adult broke into another shiver. Attempting to strike with the harpoon again, nothing happened, no damage, not a single scratch.


Pelted left, right, upside down and center, the hyena fell to his knees. What was with these monsters. What was happening? Taking a long deep breath, the early adult attempted to shake everything off to the best of his ability. He couldn't give up now. Switching the position of his legs, the chimera held the harpoon as if it were a sword.


Preparing himself once more, the hyena focused his attention on the hailstones. Perhaps, just maybe, if he deflected them, he would stand a chance. Resolute on his decision, the soldier kept his eyes on the prize. This had to work, surely. It was the only option that remained.


Hailstones sent back flying towards their owners, the winged lizards had soon dropped towards the ground, iced aplenty. Creatures fading into the ether, the early adult huffed a tired breath. The dragons had been slain, for now. But, as he attempted to catch his breath, frantic voices drowned out everything.


"Bro, you g-gott-a c-com-e t-to M-M-Me-r-u-ssss-eaaaa V-V-Viiiil-ag-eeee noooow," Brume wheezed, coughing up a storm. "S-S-Soooooo-me-thin-ggg w-w-waaack-y iii-ss g-g-gooo-ingggg on t-h-eeeeere." He continued to wheeze. "Archons, air is still painful."


"Yeah, bro, t-t-tooooo-ttalllll-y koo-kooky," Éclater added. "Archons, we're gonna die, we're totally gonna die."


Alarm bells ringing in his head, the early adult had begun running as fast as humanly possible. The sea lion pranksters came all this way without water tanks to tell him something was wrong? They didn't need to risk their lives for something like this. Sea lion brothers crawling behind, a second ton had dropped itself upon his back. If they were to fall here, he was to blame.


Reaching Merusea Village after about five minutes of extremely speedy running, the hyena rushed to put on his diving equipment. Brume and Éclater immediately dropping back into the water, the chimera mind and diving suit synched up with one another. Dropping himself downward into the deep expanses of the sea, a wave of confusion flowed through him. It was dark down here. Almost too dark. Had something changed since the last time he was here?


Spotting the diver boy in the corner, the hyena turned his head towards him. What was he doing down here? Was he on some underwater mission? Eyes soon glued to him, the young man blinked. Did he have something to say to him? Whatever it was, he hardly had any time. He had to deal with whatever was going on here, pronto.


"It's you," the blond diver boy said, emotionless. "It is best you turn back." But, he hesitated before continuing. "The monsters down here are dangerous. I thought I told the brothers to not let you know. Maybe they didn't hear me?"


But, the hyena refused. Turn back? No way. The Melusines could be suffering. Why turn a blind eye now? Not happening, there's danger an underwater foot. Turn around? He would do no such thing. He would clear out any monsters he had to. Having his diving suit thrust him forward, the sea lion prankster duo swam towards him.


"Bro!" Brume exclaimed. "Go to a Very Bright Place!"


"Yeah, bro!" Éclater added. "That's where the kooky monsters went!" As he said such, he soon uncovered a portal. "Enter this shortcut, dude!"


Pushing himself through a strange pink portal, he had soon been in a Very Bright Place. But, what awaited him inside was many fears aplenty. Hearing a loud buzzing noise, the hyena jerked his head towards the left and right. Gigantic hornet making a nest within, the chimera's heart skipped four beats. This was the threat looming underneath here? This was not good. If these creatures were to sting anything, poison would be in the water, guaranteed.


Pressing a button on his glove, the aquatic ray blade had been equipped. Turning his attention towards the monster, the chimera aimed with precision. Only two attacks connecting, the bug had begun to fly away at the speed of a samachurl. Creature soon looking like it had tripled, everything froze.


Attempting to once again hit the creature, such attempts failed almost immediately. Creature dividing itself, the early adult grit his teeth. What was he, on some sort of large space ship with wasps that could divide themselves onto the battlefield to drag it out longer? But, the chimera shook his head. Wrong universe.


Continuing to fight with all his might, the soldier placed down a jellyfish head bomb. He had fought these creatures before in Liyue. Surely, they would be simple to destroy. Aquatic explosive deployed, the creatures soon let out a loud hiss. But, the coin soon flipped itself once more.


Strong force pulling him elsewhere, the soldier attempted with all his might to break free. But, such had been an utter failure. Pulled towards a domain up ahead, the hyena surrendered. He had lost against the force. There was nothing that could be done. Hornets falling as the water absorbed them, the early adult closed his eyes. He was about to go to the unknown once again.


Finding himself in the mysterious world once again hidden deep within the Merusea Village, the chimera blinked. Why was he here again? But, what awaited him inside was utter chaos. Kraken seating itself upon the building, everything flipped sideways. Readying to fall, the chimera growled. Where was he, the Distortion World? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. There was no such place. What was he even thinking?


"Fix everything, and I'll skedaddle!" the kraken shouted.


Hearing such, the early adult made a run for it. Fix what? Fix this domain? How was he supposed to do that? But, an answer had come far sooner than he thought it would arrive. Multiple tile puzzles lining themselves up on the floor, the early adult let out a sigh. Not this again. Not another patterned tile puzzle. Was time repeating itself? But, such had only been stage one.


Rotation puzzles also adding themselves to the floor, the hyena groaned. Even more difficulties had been presented to him now. Figuring it was best to deal with the patterned tile puzzles, the early adult moved towards the first many hurdles. Hopping upon the floor, the chimera almost fell into the void.


First tile puzzle solved after two attempts, the soldier carefully approached the second one. Pattern figured out after about four attempts, the slew of answers kept going for hours on end. Orientation of the land fixing itself with every single success, the soldier hopped on top of the area's roof.


Multiple rotation puzzles waiting for him, everything soon begun multiple tiles rotated one after another, multiple components had been placed in the wrong position. Message alerting him to make sure the tiles create a picture, the soldier readied to pull his hair out. Why was this one so incredibly specific?


Taking a moment to breathe, the early adult prepared himself. Right. he had to solve this. He had no choice. Rotating the cubes on what felt like endless repeat. The picture slowly, but surely, came together. First one done and over with, the early adult hopped on over to the next rooved peak.


Next rotation puzzle waiting for him, the hyena's eyes spun as everything continued. One more spin, and his eyes would be jelly. But, he knew he couldn't give up. He had to solve this, or he would have to fight a sea monster right here, right now. Such could not happen. His energy was going the way of the ancient races.


Second rotation puzzle soon solved, the soldier readied for the third and final one. But, struggles soon arose one after another. Multiple complicated components screaming at him, the early adult clicked his tongue. Of course the last one would be the hardest. That's how it always was. Taking a deep breath, he soon reset his concentration.


Final rotation puzzle taken care of, the kraken surrendered itself. Taking one for the team, it had exited the scene. Exit door soon appearing, the soldier jumped out. Merusea Village brighter and better than ever, the chimera returned to the surface world up above.


Spotting a dragon flying towards Elynas, the early adult's legs erupted into a sprint. There had been more of them here? Chasing the creatures all the way to the edges of the area, a long, arduous fight took the soldier away, for a moment. But, such had soon come to an end. Coming across a bony boomerang, the chimera borrowed it, for a moment.


Evening soon rolling around, the early adult let out a deep sigh. It was time to perform another heist. Why did he have to do this yet again? It was clearly not ever going to be pulled off by him. Heist outfit on, he soon looked over the next location of which he had to steal from.


Location listed as the northern mountain within the research institute, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. He had to do what now? Perform a heist on the top of the mountains? No way. That had to have been some sort of mistake. Reading it over again it was not a mistake. What was going on here? This was quite ridiculous for sure.


Running through the research institute, the hyena sighed. Why is he doing this? He should just let himself get caught. Feeling a lightbulb appear above his head, he rose his index finger upwards towards the sky. He should, definitely, certainly, without a doubt, let that happen.


Reaching the next place after about an hour of walking, the early adult prepared himself. It was time to get caught. Climbing up the mountain as loud as possible, the soldier attempted to ramp up with all his might. Surely, this would lead him to getting spotted. It had to be the opportunity.


Laying down smoke balls at the absolutely worst time, the early adult stared at the objects he was told to steal. Seeing mountain beacons, the early adult shook his head. Why did Her Majesty want these? Absolutely ridiculous. Touching them with the palms of his hands, he could soon hear shouts as he grabbed them.


"It's our favorite little thief again!" Sani and Oluchi shouted in unison.


Pretending to be shocked, the hyena snapped his fingers. Oh no, he had been caught. Whatever shall he do? Jackals looking at each other in brief confusion, the early adult played up the theatrics. Whispering he, the Research Institute Phantom Thief had been caught again. Foiled. But neither researchers were buying what he was selling.


"Sorry, thiefers, you can't take our seismic graph tools," Sani said, shaking his head. "You need to put them back down."


The soldier could feel a shock drop down his spine upon hearing such facts presented to him. Her Majesty wanted him to steal tools to measure nearby earthquakes? How could she suggest he do such a thing? How dare she. Putting it down, Oluchi soon pumped her fists downward. Was she enjoying watching him put them back? He supposed he didn't blame her.


"Atta boy!" Oluchi cheered. "Putting back our cute little tools!"


Jumping down the mountain, the soldier headed back towards the Aquabus Station. But, as he prepared to do so, he stared off into space. This wasn't right. This had been getting out of hand. This heisting, he wasn't even good at it. It needed to stop, halt, cease. This could not go on anymore, no matter what.


Aquabus soon reached, the soldier repeated such within his mind. Enough was enough. Why couldn't Her Majesty stop ordering him to do things that could directly harm people's livelihoods? Didn't she want the Fatui to remain on amicable relations with every single important group figures? She was jeopardizing her standing with the Research Institute, guaranteed.


Reaching the hotel after about an hour and a half, the early adult checked back into his temporary room. Immediate wave of tiredness overtaking him, the hyena threw himself into the hotel bed. Everything put away, the chimera closed his eyes. But one last line looped on repeat as the land of tormented dreams readied to take him away.


Enough was enough.


***


"New big lead today on the sea gazelle case, there's some
Eerie noises coming from the Foggy Forest and
Weeping Willow of the


Lake. The sounds are kind of
Enrapturing. I dunno is that the word.
Ah, I tell Rabi: 'Think there's something around here somewhere.'
Don't know why, he seems kinda nervous


Today. Like something is
On his mind? I
Dunno what that could possibly be, but I would rather not pry.
'Ah. Um, yeah, I think so, too.
You're probably right,


Lonan.' Hmm, something is wrong here. So, I
Enter my concerns into
The conversation.
'Something bugging you?' I asked.


Guess he felt a little bugged by this question. He flinched.
'Oh, sorry, bro. Don't want to talk about it?'


Rabi then shook his head.
'Ah, uh, uh, no. It's not that. Uh. I'm just a
Bit tense today. Uh, um, sorry. Does that bother you?'
I shake my head, and tell him, 'Nope. Not at all.'
Unless I am mistaken, he smiled. Maybe I should let myself be his ears. We continue investigating."


Waking up the next morning, music had soon been sung in his ears. Ginger Fatui telling him he will no longer be heisting, the hyena almost cheered. No more stealing? That was it, he was free from his forced path of dazzling criminality? Freedom, freedom, freedom, freedom freedom.


His thievery days were over.


Just like that.


Gone, done he was free.


"What's with that goofy look on your face soldier?" the ginger Fatui called out. "You still have work to do. Continue your investigation on the sea gazelles." She spun a mora coin on the tips of her fingers. "And go deal with the problem in Belleau that you left out yesterday! Then, head to the Weeping Willow of the Lake for your final mission."


Hearing the Belleau region mentioned, the hyena flinched. That's right, he nearly forgot. That was one of the regions listed as somewhere with sea gazelles sightings. Giving his Fontaine boss a nod, the early adult exited the hotel, heading off towards the Aquabus station, the Melusine guard told him to keep himself seated at all times.


As the vehicle of automatic movement rode again, the soldier stared off into space. What could possibly be waiting for him in the Belleau Region? More sea monsters he left unattended? Just how much more of this would he have to deal with at this point? Why couldn't there be other soldiers to clean up some of this stuff from time to time?


As the vessel passed by the view of the Opera Epiclese, the chimera continued to stare off into space. Would another surprise await him today? If such were the case, he could hardly stand it. No more surprises. No more battles. He had had quite enough of all that nonsense this week.


Gazing at the world around him, the soldier sighed. He recalled hearing something two days prior. The generic rich nobodies, they had posed a question: why hadn't the Hydro Archon been doing anything? Question simmering, the early adult repeated it. Why hadn't she been doing anything about the ongoing problems? Something wasn't right.


"Hey! We've reached your destination!" the Melusine called out to him. "You've been spacing out a lot lately."


Bowing an apology, the early adult placed himself on the ledge. Wind glider soon deployed, the chimera could hardly believe the sight playing out in front of him. Bain, Kali and Aigre chasing a large dragon up in the sky, the hyena crooked his head upward. Abyssal gazelles on the back of the flying lizard, the young soldier let out a groan. Of course it was these two again. Why did he even think for a moment he wouldn't see them again? Sea lion trio running faster, shouts had come their way.


"Get back here!" Bain shouted.


"You two um, set fire to things in Poisson!" Kali shouted. "Take responsibility for what you did!"


"You meanies!! Get off Mister Seahorse and go into the timeout box!" Aigre exclaimed. "You two did a very bad thing!!"


"Aigre, now's now the time for that!" Bain shouted.


Catching up to the sea lion sisters, the early adult let out a growl. Getting a closer inspection upon the dragon, the early adult folded his arms into a fist. What were these two doing, riding around on a large seahorse? They burned things down to ashes in Poisson? What a brand new low for them. Outrageous.


"That's right, you did it!" Kelebek shouted. "And you'll do it again!"


"Nyahahaha, we'll take your precious little home down into the abyss with us!" Izzet shouted. "Enjoy Poisson while you still can! When we're done here it'll be Poigone!"


"You'll be the ones Poigone!!!" Aigre shouted. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Aigre, we'll lend you our assistance and grant you a speed boost. She then changed the pitch of her voice again. "Wow, thanks Navigator Blanc! Let's gooooo!"


Aigre zooming off with her imaginary friend, the abyssal gazelle duo had only gotten faster. Bain and Kali demanding she slow down, the soldier sped up his running speed, as well. The mermaid had the right idea, running faster. These no food fawns had to be caught right away, no questions asked.


Dashing across the west slopes, the soldier swore he could say Izzet they would never catch them. But, the soldier sped up his running speed. None of them would ever catch them? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Who did they think he was? He was a hyena chimera. If he were to transform his legs, he would catch up in no time.


Moving through the east slopes, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Human legs soon becoming hyena ones, the early adult dashed off as fast as possible. Everyone else straggling behind, the soldier kept running. He couldn't let them get away, no matter what. But, their next turn was the worst turn.


Gazelles stopping at the mysterious tower upon the bottom floor, the early adult feet skid across the grass. What were these two up to now? Sea lion trio catching up, the villainous party of two dropped themselves from their sea dragon. Heinous grins of wickedness plastered on their faces, a suggestive threat had come the sea lion sister's way.


"Fight our little friend if you want your precious home to live!" Izzet shouted. As they said such, the seahorse snorted.


"One wishes her luck!" Kelebek shouted. As one said such, the two fawns vanished into thin air.


Seahorse snorting once again, the chimera let out a puff of air. What in the world was this nonsense? Fighting a seahorse? Would that really be any sort of challenge? The soldier did not think so. There was no way this would prove to be a challenge. But, he had soon been proven wrong almost instantly.


Seahorse snorting air, large hailstones had come out of its mouth. Seeing such, it had clicked immediately. He sees now. The days long hailstorm. It was the abyssal gazelles doing once again. Why was everything always tied to them in some way? How annoying. This couldn't get any worse, could it?


But, the worst had soon come. Seahorse unleashing multiple icy attacks, the hyena fell to his knees. What was this? Why was this monster so strong? The abyss was a formidable opponent indeed. Bain and Kali falling to their knees as well, the odds were stacked against everything.


Soon, the best card would be pulled.


"Here you go, little horsey!" Aigre shouted at the top of her lungs. "A gift from Pilot Noir!"


Large, metal anchor tossed on the seahorse it had soon been crushed into tiny little pieces one after another. Creature shattering into little nothings, the abyssal gazelle duo soon returned from the ashes. Snapping their fingers, both of them grit their teeth at the exact same time.


"You will get your revenge!" Kelebek shouted pointed.


"Just you wait, meddler, our next plan will wipe the floor from under you!" Izzet shouted. As they said such, they hopped into a portal.


Sea lion trio soon gone as well, the soldier exited the tower. Knowing it was now time to head for the Weeping Willow of the Lake, the early adult could feel his body begin to freeze. The gazelles, they had exacted their revenge on him again. What would happen the next time he meets them? Doom loomed over him as he continued to push onward.


Weeping Willow only getting closer, the doom only continued to eat the chimera alive. What would they do to him next time? Give him even worse poison that'll surely kill him this time? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. They could probably hear his thoughts. He needed to stop thinking about them.


Reaching the Weeping Willow of the Lake a surprising sight soon caught his attention. Spotting Rabiu and Lonan working together, the soldier tilted his head towards the sky. When did these two get so close? But he supposed that would never be his business. Walking towards them, Rabiu's eyes darted off towards him, in an instant.


"Siorc, um, uh, you're here now, too?" Rabiu asked. The hyena swore he could see him blushing. "Did you come here about the legend?"


Question coming his way, the early adult gave the health researcher jackal a nod. Was it really alright to tell him he was searching, too? Did this count as giving information to someone that wasn't supposed to know? If Her Majesty was watching, he would be killed for sure. But, Lonan soon interrupted his food cart of thought.


"Cool beans, black fish steak bro," Lonan replied to his wordless communication. "Rabi and I are looking, too."


"Um, I uh, told you not to call me Rabi," Rabiu said, shaking his head. "If you're going to address me with a nickname. Uh, please just call me Rab." His voice was shaking as he said such. "Rabi reminds me of what my siblings call me when they act like I'm adopted."


"Sorry, Rab, I'll try to remember to not call you that again," Lonan responded, crossing his index fingers. "Well, anyway, bro, we haven't checked the underwater lake yet. We should probably head there next."


Lead given, the early adult put on his diving equipment. Everyone dropping down to the world underneath the lake, a wave of unease flowed through him. Was it just his imagination, or had the atmosphere been heavy here? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. He was jumping to conclusions, surely.


Moving through the area, the soldier could not help but feel an overwhelming presence in the area. Someone, without a doubt, had been living down here. Recording such information in his waterproof notebook, the soldier prepared himself. The sea gazelles, where could they be hiding themselves?


Moving along the path, the feeling of someone being here had only gotten a lot stronger as the soldier headed towards a pink seashell. This feeling, why had it been so overwhelming? Could the sea gazelles be inside this shell? Taking a deep breath, he kept himself from lifting the object. Maybe he should look around a little more first.


Rabiu and Lonan heading off towards the opposite end of him screaming the eastern side of the lake underneath the willow tree had nothing going, the soldier remained in place. If there had been nothing to discover on the eastern side, he was definitely wasting his time. There was no need to go over there, for sure.


Making a lot of noises as he headed back off towards the shell, the jackal and hawk chimera prepared to do the heavy lifting. Everything counting from one to three together, something of immediate shock caught the early adult's attention. Two humanoid people laying down inside the seashell like it was a bed, the two soon opened their eyes.


Observing the duo, for a moment, the soldier turned his attention towards the left laying person. Laying down upon the seashell from the leftmost point had been a feminine appearing person with spiky orange hair that went down to about their ears, orange eyes with peculiar triangular pupils, and gazelle horns to match. Red outfit not covering their entire gazelle lower half, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was a transformation like this normal? He had never seen a chimera with their entire lower half as the animal their dna had been fused with before aside from Krysi in her rat form. But, such had been a different case.


Turning his head towards the next person, the chimera had observed them, for a moment. On the right had been a masculine appearing gazelle person with short orange hair parted in a fancy manner off into the left side of their head. Hanging sideburns covering their pointy ears, orange eyes with triangular pupils, the chimera stared at their face. Why did their face look like it had been cracked glass. What was going on here? Green outfit barely covering their entire lower half gazelle body, confused glances had come everyone's way. But, one other thing had soon caught his attention.


Both gazelles having extremely sharp black nails that were much longer than normal ones, the soldier tilted his head. What in the world were those? Whatever they were, he could feel a sense of doom flowing through them. Something was not right about those nails, for sure.


"Is this Celestia?" gazelle number one asked. "Did we finally die?"


"No, Damla," gazelle number two asked. "Still alive." But, confusion soon added itself to the mix as they turned their head towards the faces in the corner. "Huh? Intruders?" They could feel their rage build. "Die! Die! Die!"


Sea gazelles suddenly throwing their hostilities into the ring, everyone had sprung into action. What was going on? Why had they suddenly thrown their hats into the ring? Claws glowing the gazelles let out a scream. Everyone fighting back for minutes on end, the opposing force soon tired themselves out after thirty strikes.


"Sorry for attacking you three," gazelle number one with the spiky hair said apologetically. "I am named Damla."


"And, I'm Firat," gazelle number two said. "Apologies for telling you three to die. Didn't mean it."


"It's all cool, bro. I'd be mad, too if someone woke me up while I was sleeping," Lonan responded. "Are you three the legends of this lake?" But, there was a brief moment of hesitation as he asked such.


"Guess cos and I are?" Firat responded in a questioning tone. "Huh. When did that happen?" But Damla soon added cos voice to the mix.


"What se means to say is, we are. But, we do not know why," Damla added. Co then let out a sigh. "We have been asleep too long for this. Can't we just die already?"


Hearing Damla say co just wanted to die, the soldier's heart skipped a beat. Why did co want to end cos life? But, he supposed that was not his business. He barely knew anything about these two to know. But, his thoughts had quickly been interrupted as another voice kicked in.


"Could you please let us go back to sleep?" Firat asked in a tone of desperation. "Neither of us want to be awake right now."


Nodding, everyone soon respected their wishes. Sea gazelle duo crawling back into their pink seashell, it soon closed itself up tight. Everything returning to the surface, the soldier sat down beside the weeping willow for a moment. Recording all his findings one after another, the hyena prepared himself to return to the Court of Fontaine.


As the soldier rode the Aquabus back towards the capital city, the soldier stared off into space. The sea gazelles, something was definitely wrong here. These two, someone had to have done something to them. Fawns could not breathe underwater. Something was amiss.


Ginger Fatui demanding he hand over his research log, the early adult handed off his satchel to her. Soon told he was dismissed, the early adult took out his teleport waypoint proxy orb. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Cruising through the hallways, he reached the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking.


Immediate wave of tiredness overtaking him, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But, as he had done so, his thoughts raced to the finish line. The sea gazelles, just how much had they been suffering? Land of tormented dreams dragging him back in, one final thought wrapped vines around the soldier.


Something was off about the sea gazelles, for sure.

 

[Palamon]

31. Chenyu Vale Rumblings 3: Lion Beasts and Partings.

"So let me get this straight,
Her Majesty wants me to
Enter Chenyu Vale and record data.


Why, Your Majesty?
Are you doing this
Now, of all times?
This hardly makes any
Sense. I don't really understand.


Maybe she just wants to see
Everything accounted for?


This is nothing I'm not used to,
Obviously, she's always demanding I


Run on over to
Every single area.
Can't help but see that I am
One of her worms,
Right. That's how it's always has been.
Don't ever forget,


Don't ever forget what I truly
Am. I'm a worm,
That's how it's
Always been.


Always will be, I need to
Get comfortable in that
Always constant.
I am nothing more than a pawn,
Nothing more than a chess piece.


Her Majesty is always
Using me, of course I know that.
Her Majesty is always


Watching me. I am
Her little rook.
Even though I have
Not gone on a mission


Where I have to record
Anything in a year or
So. So, what's with


The sudden order?
Haven't I been in Chenyu Vale plenty already?
Eh, must not have been enough.


Look, Your Majesty, I'll do
All you ask, but you really
Should have asked me
To do this ages ago. I have been


There about four times now,
I think. Or
Maybe it has been less. I haven't
Ever paid attention to the count.


It is what it is, I


Have to do everything and
All she says. I mustn't
Disobey. I wouldn't dare


To. I have to
Obey, or she will kill me.


Do I see the point
Of this mission? Do I understand why


This late after I
Have already been to this
Area? No, of course not.
Though, I guess, don't question


That. I really shouldn't.
Here's to yet another
Especially long recording session.


Hah, I'm just
A little pawn
A little
Rook on the chessboard!


I get it, Her Majesty,
She wants me to have everything
Laid down in my book
As a way to get information out of me.
Nothing I'm not used to!
Do I have anything to
Say to that? Of course


I don't. I wouldn't dare


Say anything.
Ultimately, silence is key.
Perhaps this mission will go quick,
Perhaps this
One won't be a month long.
Something like this
Evidentially might not take as much time.


I am sure of it.
Though, perhaps I am too optimistic.


However, since I have been here
At least three times,
She won't require me to


Be here as long,
Even so, I have to do my best.
Even so, I cannot falter.
No half baked work, I


Quite already know she will
Unleash violence on me
If I half bake anything.
This has to perfect.
Everything has to be perfect.


Ah, well. That's how it is.
Why would I do sloppy work?
Her Majesty is watching me
I know she's constantly
Looking, listening in the
Eaves. Everywhere, everything, all at once.


Well, maybe I'm
Exaggerating, there's no way she's
Looking. There's no way she's
Listening. Ah,


No, I am not exaggerating, not
Overthinking. She's always watching.


My actions, they're
Always seen.
That's always the case,
That's always how it is.
Every second, minute, hour.
Right, I know she's always


Looking, listening through the
Eaves. Always, every second.
There's always eyes on me
She's always looking. So,


Get to work
Every second counts
There is never a moment


That I'm not being watched, if not
Her Majesty,
It's probably someone else.
She has thousands upon thousands


Of soldiers. I am
Very aware of this fact.
Eyes are everywhere,
Retinas are everywhere.


Well, it is what
It is. I'm quite used
To it. Well,
Here goes nothing. Back to the Vale.


The sound of bitter wind roared like a frozen wolf in the forests of Wolvendom. As the icy world outside kept making its presence known, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in an echo. A month long blizzard had just restarted itself in the permafrost north. But, despite such complaints about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Hearing the roar outside, the soldier added his own to the mix. Yet another month long blizzard was right around the corner. Could he get five more minutes? But, the soldier knew he could not just sit around, or he would suffer painful freezing. Lifting himself upwards from the bed, the hyena had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the early adult's uniform melted onto his partially human person, a million thoughts raced around in his mind at once. The gazelles residing in the deep depths of the waters below the Foggy Forest, did something happen to them? Fawns were not typically creatures that resided underwater.


Buttoning his uniform, the thoughts kept throwing themselves around. The sea fawns, something was incredibly off about them, for sure. How did they end up under the lake? Why were they regarded as some sort of legend? But, the early adult shook his head. There had been various local mythos in Fontaine. They just happened to be one of them.


Adjusting his glasses, the ponderings would not cease, even for a moment. The abyssal gazelles, could they have been behind these two strangers residing underwater. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away again. There was no way to find out such for sure, under any circumstances.


Taking a deep breath, the early adult removed the cover off his hairpin and earrings box. Although, as he was about to pick them up from the encasement, the entire room shook as if the wind had been raging at one-hundred-fifty miles per hour. Tremors intensifying as the seconds raged onward, the chimera's balance was a dead soldier upon the battlefield.


Dropping down onto his buttocks, the soldier's body drifted towards the steel wall, backside slamming into it with a soft thud, the quivers kept their rampage going for a few seconds further. Various soldiers screaming in the other room for minutes on end, the chimera kept himself against the wall, for the time being.


"Earthquake?" one soldier shouted.


"What's going on?!" another soldier shouted.


"Hang on!" one other soldier shouted.


Shakes increasing in intensity for an extra few seconds, a heavy wave of unease had begun to flow through the hyena. What was going on here? He had no idea, but his thoughts had soon been cut off as objects dropped down upon him one after another. Trying not the scream, the early adult remained as still as a statute.


Tremors coming to an end, the chimera stood up once more. Although, as he had done so, a generic nobody soldier dashed towards his door. Man with the same face as every no one in the entirety of Teyvat, the early adult blinked. What was this person doing here? Had it been time for work already?


"Soldier, are you alright?" the generic nobody asked.


Question coming his way, the early adult gazed at the person from afar. Why was this soldier checking on him? None of them in the other rooms had ever cared to do so before. Placing his hands out in front of him, the early adult folded his hand into a face, bobbing back back and forth, yes had been signed on private display.


"Good," the generic nobody responded. "By the archons, I have to check on everyone else!" As they said such, they ran off.


Generic nobody running away as fast as they could, the hyena shook his head. This soldier would most certainly not last long in Her Majesty's ranks. Walking back towards his uniform drawers, the chimera took a long deep breath. Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching black hearts adorned the early adult's hair and ears.


Ground briefly shaking again for about ten seconds, the early adult attempted to keep his balance. Taking another deep breath, the soldier hooked the Dendro Vision upon his uniform pants. Staring at the steel walls, a thought threw itself into the ballpark. The abyssal gazelles, could they have currently been in Snezhnaya?


But, the early adult threw such thought outside. Even if they had been, it would not be his battle to deal with. He had no reason to concern himself over such. Had they been here, it would be for someone else to worry about. Thoughts tossed aside, the early adult walked towards the edge of the room.


Heelless shoes on, the soldier let out a sigh. His rations had been decorating the floor, there was no way he could eat them like this. Cleaning them up and discarding of them, he held back the urge to sigh for the second time. His only meal of the day had been completely cancelled. But, the chimera shrugged. His stomach was half hyena. He could go longer times without eating than a normal human could.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march about in a cacophonous rampage, the early adult t turned his attention towards the door. It was time to focus on the day at hand. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera had put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday to begin.


"Soldier, are you alright?" the Agent asked, concerned tone of voice. "That earthquake was quite strong."


Hearing the artificial concern in his voice, the soldier lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. There was absolutely no way he was worried about him in any given way. But, he supposed it was best to give him an answer swiftly before he could get any chance to raise his voice. Nodding, he awaited his instructions to come his way.


"Alright, good, soldier," the Agent responded. "In any case, you will be heading to Chenyu Vale today to document various phenomenon around the area." A bag shook behind his back with a fervor. "But, before that, there is something else you must do. There is something that must be dealt with in Blackcliff Forge. Get to it swiftly, soldier."


A heavy wave of bewilderment ate the chimera up like a plate of blini. Why Blackcliff Forge, of all places? There had been a lot of fish in this statement. He had rarely been to this place aside from occasional business affairs here and there. Why now, of all times? One was not adding up to two, whatsoever.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the agent called out. "Did you hear me? You will be heading to Blackcliff Forge then Chenyu Vale! Quit dawdling and get in gear!"


The chimera flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was absolutely no time for thinking. He had to just accept his orders as they were, without question. Taking his third deep breath for the day, the early adult placed his hand out in front him, waiting for gripping prison to take him away like it always had.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Unusual or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.


"Good, we're leaving, soldier," the Agent responded. "Be careful while in Blackcliff Forge. The rogues you will be marking are quite hostile." Escort towards Liyue soon beginning, the hyena stared at the frozen walls, for a brief moment.


He has to do what now?


***


"I do not understand. No, I


Don't get it. What do I have to do, exactly?
Oh, man, hold on a second, what?


No, I still don't get it. Go
Over to Blackcliff Forge
To deal with rogue soldiers?


Quite confusing, if I'm being honest.
Unless the definition of rogues
Is monsters, or something.
This is not an order I have
Ever received.


Uh, so Your Majesty, why
Now? This hardly makes sense.
Don't really see the point in this.
Even though I don't not, I
Really have no
Say in the matter.
That's just how it is.
And, it is not like I am allowed to question it.
Not one bit.
Do I think this means anything?


Well, not really. I guess she just wants me to go
Hammer down something upon these rogues.
Are soldier starting
To rebel against Her Majesty?


I don't know.
That's not any of my business.


I shouldn't question it.
So, it's better I just do as I am


Told and move on with my day.
Hopefully, this is not something I have to deal with
Again. Hopefully, this is nothing more than a one
Time thing. Surely,


It has to be. This is not
Something I should be sent out to do.


But, I mustn't complain,
Every single thing
I might be thinking might be heard.
No, perhaps I am
Getting too close to exaggerating.


All and all,
Something just isn't right here. I
Know something is just off,
Eerie, and I
Don't know what it could be, but


Of all times to deal with rogues,
For this to happen now, it just feels strange, truly.


Maybe I am mistaken.
Eh, I don't know.


Well, it is what it is.
Here's to dealing with
A ton of rogue soldiers before
Taking on Chenyu Vale for the third time.
Something tells me this
Order is just serving as a distraction.
Eh, but what do I know? It
Very well could or couldn't be.
Every time, it's all the same. Sprinkle, and
Repeat. Same order, different day."


Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the teleport waypoint, a satchel had been slammed onto the soldier's back. Reminder coming his way to deal with the rogues first, then proceed to Chenyu Vale after, the hyena nodded. Right, head for Blackcliff Forge first, then the northern mountain range.


Agent soon leaving, the chimera prepared himself to exit the area. Knowing Blackcliff Forge had been in the southern area within Liyue, the early adult prepared himself to head towards the western exit of the city. But, as his walk through the the city soon began, thoughts soon clumped together.


As the early adult sauntered onward, he could not help but wonder. These Fatui rogues, why hadn't he ever heard about this before? This had to have been the first instance of such occurring during his approaching eight years as a forced member of the Fatui. Such had been almost unheard of, for certain.


Dragging his feet, the hyena kept his thoughts going. Had a rebellion been near? He knew that, no matter what the circumstance, not everyone stuck within the ranks. But, he supposed, whatever happened outside of what he knew was not his business. He knew he had not been nearly high ranked enough to know anything beyond what knowledge had been supplied.


Thoughts changing course, the early adult stared at the fence in the corner of the area. The Fatui, just how many soldiers were unsatisfied within the ranks? The chimera had no clue, but knew the number had to have been miniscule, or immeasurable. There couldn't have possibly been an in between.


Moving past the toy sales booth in the corner, the soldier could not help but question. Which side of scale would he be on? Dissatisfaction, or the opposite spectrum? But, the early adult threw such thought off a bridge. It had been neither. He was not allowed to have an opinion on such, whatsoever.


Pushing through the business district, the hyena turned his attention towards the red staircases. Just how many people willingly offered themselves to the Fatui every day, week, or year? Shrugging his shoulders, no answer came to him. How should he know? It had to have been thousands per year. It had to have been the same for every other group of power within Teyvat.


Jewelry store pushed past, the soldier tossed the thoughts away to the best of his ability. He supposed, it did not matter to him how many people were to join the ranks of the seven countries armies. Every single one, including the Fatui had to have benefits that outweighed the cons.


Curving off towards the left, another set of thoughts threw a pebble upon the water. The frontlines, what was so great about them, anyway? They had been filled with the most danger amongst all positions. He could never imagine himself throwing himself away to the front of the line in an army.


But, the soldier knew, all of his years of training, they had to have been to prepare him for the frontlines someday. He supposed if that were truly the case, there was no way around it. He was a pawn on the chessboard, a rook upon the battlefield. Should warfare break out between the regions of Teyvat, the choice would not be his position in the battlegrounds.


Distractions kicking in one last time, the huffed a breath. Why in the world was he letting these thoughts press on? There was no way he would be sent onto the frontlines. He was hardly skilled enough in the use of either his Vision, nor his gifted Delusion. There was no way he would be put out on a battlefield between other nation's armies.


But, as the chimera readied to pass through the city's western most exit, his body soon collided with another. Clothes pressing against his, the early adult backed three steps away. Bowing an apology. Moving his head upward, the tall brunette appeared within his close range vision. Seeing such, the chimera bowed a second apology. Why hadn't he been watching where he was going?


"It is quite alright, young man," the tall brunette responded to his wordless apologies. "You were merely lost in thought."


Hearing such, the chimera bowed a third apology. Momentary doom looming over him, the chimera's thoughts wandered once again. Would Rex Lapis curse him? He had bumped into one of the most knowledgeable people in Liyue. Accidentally whispering such inquiry aloud enough to be heard, the chimera placed his hands over his mouth.


"Fear not, Mr. Siorc, Rex Lapis will not curse you," the tall brunette responded to his slightly audible whisper. As he said such, he moved out of the way.


Hearing such, the soldier flinched. The wise man had heard him? He had definitely whispered far too loudly. Moving along, the hyena pushed through. It was time to move onto Blackcliff Forge and deal with the rogues as instructed of him. Time to get whatever it was he had to do over with.


As the early adult had begun to head west, another set of questions threw themselves into the ring. Geo Archon gracing his mindscape, he could not help but think. Rex Lapis, Morax, the Lord of Geo, just what kind of god could he have possibly been? But, mind soon rolled off towards the past tense.


Rephrasing the question inside him, the chimera inquired within himself again. What kind of god was Rex Lapis? He did not know why, but as of late, he had been hearing rumors the archon had passed on. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. That had merely been a rumor. Surely, it had to have been.


Pushing through the southern path towards Mt. Tianheng, the chimera stared at the various statues laid out everywhere. Rumors were merely just sprinkled information with half truths. There was no way such a thing could have possibly been true. He knew it couldn't have been.


Memories of his father's notes pushing through his mind, the chimera recalled a particular passage from his stolen childhood. If an Archon were to die, there would be widescale devastation. Remembering such, he shook his head once more. He had not heard anything of the sort, in recent memory.


Curving off towards the western path, the chimera attempted to once again, throw such thoughts away. He needed to stop getting so lost in thought lately. Rumors were just tales that had spread too far from mouth to mouth. There was no credence to any of them whatsoever.


Moving on, the early adult stared off towards the sky. Liyue had been a nation with quite a lot of sacred beings. Surely, over the countless centuries, many had come and gone. Such had been the cycle of life, even those with extended lifespans. He knew that, everything without fail, would one day reach the end.


Qingxu Pool coming within his field of damaged vision, the early adult swore he could see the sky turn green, for a brief moment. But, the early adult shook his head. No, it had to have been his imagination just now. He had to have been mistaken. A trick of lighting; some adventurer with the power of Anemo at their side.


But, as the early adult ran towards Qingxu Pool, something of particular note stood out to him. Yaksha using his wind power screaming, boring and useless and grunting aplenty, the soldier gazed at him. Multiple demonic looking Hilichurls taken out of the picture one after another, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Just what had happened to these monsters?


Continuing to study for a moment, the hyena's thoughts had begun to wander. Had there been some monster illness going around? He did not know why, but something had felt incredibly off about these creatures the Yaksha looked as though he had been fighting these creatures for quite some time now.


Yaksha's side eyes soon on him, the early adult's knees buckled. Why had he been gazing at him with such contempt? Had he disturbed him while he had been fighting? If such had been the case, he needed to stay out of his way right now, or he would become the next person destroyed, guaranteed.


"Get out of here," the Yaksha grunted.


Sounding like a demand, the early adult had begun running. Right, get out of here. He was in the Yaksha's battlegrounds. He should not have looked; he should not have passed any glances. He had other things to get done. Mountain demon looking like that, at any given moment, he would shout again, the soldier had begun running.


Dashing southward, the soldier's legs erupted into an even speedier sprint. Not a single monster in the area to speak of, the early adult kept on running. It had been so quiet around here, almost too quiet. Had everything within southern Liyue been wiped out of existence? Something had been dealt with when he had been away without a shadow of a doubt.


Sprinting even faster, the soldier prepared himself any second now, and he would be near the entrance of Blackcliff Forge, near the rogues, doing the absolutely most unusual things. He needed to prepare himself, no matter what. There was a deep chance for violence coming any second now.


Heart pounding like a jackhammer, the hyena halted his run, for a moment. He had been far outside the reach of the yaksha's gaze at this point. Huffing a deep breath, the early adult reduced his sprint back down into a slow run. There was no need for speed, he was not a red queen with stickers named Lightning.


Preparing himself, the hyena pushed through the abandoned southern edges of Liyue. These rogues, just what was about to be in store for him? Whatever it was about to be, he knew it was entirely possible he would be dragged into battle. If combat were at all avoidable, he wished for such option to be the case.


Hearing various screams and accented shouts in the corner, the chimera had resumed running. Hearing various unholy words said in a span of a minute, the early adult blinked. Were those words allowed to be said, even if they had not been directly stated for an audience to hear? That had to have been breaking every single rule laid out from a god beyond Teyvat. Not like he would know such a thing.


Legal Advisor in the corner of Blackcliff Forge's entrance called many nasty names no one was allowed to bear witness to, the early adult flinched. Word freak casually thrown onto the playing field, the shock only continued to grow. These two, whoever these rogues were, they needed to roll up some Naku Weed and eat it.


Two teenage Fatui with sharp pickaxes in their hands, the soldier could not help but feel a heavy wave of confusion. What was going on here, exactly? These were the rogues he had been tasked with dealing with? They had been nothing more than angry adolescents in soldier clothing. Surely, a little convincing would put a stop to their shenanigans.


"I already told you two," the legal advisor said in a stern tone. "You are mining here illegally. You need to stop this."


"Deal with it, woman!" the first rogue exclaimed.


"Yeah, deal with it!" the second rogue shouted.


Defiance coming the legal advisor's way, the chimera could hardly believe his ears. How could they say something like that to her? That was incredibly rude of them. These rogues would be quite the stubborn brats to deal with, for sure. Sifting through his satchel for a moment, he found the object of marking. Stepping towards the rogues, he prepared himself. But, as he had done so, a scolding had been sent his way, as well.


"Excuse me, young man," the legal advisor said in a stern tone. "But, you need a mining license to be here."


Shaking his head, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Singing he's dealing with them, the early adult took out the notebook left to him. Would giving these rogues a word of advice convince them to stop lollygagging around and causing problems for people? He knew he had to give it a shot.


Flapping the cover back upon the tome, the soldier wrote down, do the jobs you were assigned in big, bold Snezhnayan letters. Tapping the paper with his fingers, he called attention to it. Rogues gazing towards it, he swore he could hear them give him a deep rebellious huh.


"Look at this loser telling us how to work!" rogue number one shouted. "Look here, buddy, we don't care about all that. We only joined to intimidate the weak!"


"Ya heard that, buster!" rogue number two exclaimed. "We only joined within yer ranks to haze people! Ya got that?"


Hearing such, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. He sees now, they only joined for the status symbol. What a horribly misguided reason to join the Fatui. He knew that they had usually been regarded as quite the hostile group of people, but this had to have been pushing it.


"Yer still standin' in our way, pal?" rogue number two asked. "Aight. You just askin' for a fight at this point!"


Rogues doing strange martial art poses as if they were in a game where people fight in the street, the hyena flinched. A fistfight right here, and now? He had hardly been prepared to throw some punches. Couldn't this have been resolved without violence? There was no need to resort to such.


But, peace had not been an option for the rogues. Party of two gifting him with punches and kicks aplenty, the chimera let out a scream. They were doubling down on their rogue activities. What was this, a fight club? But, he threw such thought away. If it were, he wouldn't be allowed to talk about it. Bringing his fists out, he prepared himself.


Lunging a punch the soldier's ways, the hyena recoiled as he had been a kicking target for minutes on end. Heeled, spurred soles brushing up against him, the early adult grit his teeth. What were these two, cowboys, or something? They had sure spoken like them. Knowing he could not back down, he placed his fists in front of him.


Soft punches thrown the rogues' way, the early adult hardly left a dent on either of them. Soldier's laughing up a storm that he was pathetic, the hyena let out a sigh. What were they expecting, to be knocked out in one singular punch? He wasn't nearly powerful enough for something like that.


Two against one continuing on for minutes on end, the hyena attempted to surrender. Why bother with the rest of this fight at this point? He had been outnumbered and outmatched. It wasn't worth continuing this. Jumping back, the early adult attempted with all his might to put a stop to this. But, as he had thought such, the legal advisor stepped forward.


"I'll help you out," the legal advisor said.


Legal advisor telling the two rogues they really shouldn't gang up on someone, the two laughed at such lecture. One of the soldiers dropping a punch on her, as well, the early adult swore he could hear her say they would face the wrath of the flame. Hearing such, he could not help but wonder. Had that truly been a thing?


Large object tossed upon one of the rogue's head, they had soon been knocked out of commission, in a matter of moments. One singular rogue remaining, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. If they weren't fighting fair, than he shouldn't either. Hyena claws out in front of him, he let out the scratch of a lifetime.


Hyena claws sinking themselves into the enemy, the rogues let out a shout. Enemy screaming he ain't playing fair, the chimera rolled his eyes to the ceiling. He wasn't playing fair? Look who was talking. They had ganged up on him two against one before the legal advisor had joined. That had hardly been the case.


Final round of justice laid upon the remaining enemy from the legal advisor, they had hightailed it out of here. No more enemies remaining for any given reason, the early adult turned his feet off into the opposite direction. It was time to move onwards towards Chenyu Vale. There was no time to waste, he had to get out of here.


Returning towards the northern path, the chimera stared off into space for quite some time. Did people only join the Fatui as a way to intimidate others? Why was this even an option for some people? He hardly understood the thought process behind what some people considered.


Moving past Mt. Tianheng after about half an hour, his thoughts kept on rumbling. Intimidation, was that truly a reason why some people would enlist themselves within the Fatui stronghold? He couldn't get behind that. Why would anyone want to do such a thing? No one would be getting anywhere with such aggression.


Heading towards the northern direction, the early adult's thoughts continued to wander. Why did people enlist in the Fatui, anyway? The chimera had no idea, but he supposed the world of Snezhnaya had been far different from the rest of the world. Or, perhaps it wasn't. He did not know enough to come to such conclusion.


Guili plains pushed through, the hyena could not help but wonder further. Just what kind of ranks had there been within the Fatui anyway? While he had known there had been harbingers, Agents and some other forms of diplomatic soldiers, he knew that couldn't have possibly been all there was.


Dragging himself through Wangshu Inn, the early adult could not help but wonder. Where would he rank amongst the Fatui? But, the early adult shook his head. He had to have been nothing more than a low ranking soldier. He most certainly had not been anywhere within the ranks to be considered a threat.


Trudging through Dihua Marsh, the early adult claps his hands together. Why was he concerning himself over these things? Absolutely none of this mattered. He should not have been wasting his time thinking about any of it. What did any of this matter? Whatever rank he was, it hardly made a difference to him.


Preparing himself to walk through Stone Gate, the early adult took a long, deep breath. Enough was enough, it was time to stop worrying about these sorts of things. Why had he been concerning himself about any of this? Those rogues, he would never seen them again, guaranteed.


But, as the hyena pushed through the gate, a surprise had soon caught him off guard. Stone frog statue letting out a loud ribbit, the early adult jumped six steps back. What in the world was going on here? Had the mages been up to their tricks again? He hardly had any time to deal with such a thing. Not here, not now, not today.


"Spiritblade, attack!" a voice shouted.


Stone frog destroyed in a matter of moments, the hyena turned himself towards the back. Icy blue haired exorcist with multiple talismans surrounding him, the early adult blinked. Was there some sort of exorcism going on around here? If he was in the way, he would leave right now.


"Sir, are you alright?" the exorcist asked. "There's a lot of evil spirits around here."


Hearing such, the chimera flinched. There were evil spirits here? What was going on around Liyue lately? Something had not been right about all of this. Giving a frantic nod, the soldier prepared himself. Any second now, and he would be told to get out of here.


"If you are going on ahead, you need to be careful, sir," the exorcist warned. "There's more up ahead."


Heeding the warning, the early adult kept moving. Where had all of these sudden influx of unusual monsters been coming from? Whatever had been going on while he had been away dealing with other things around Fontaine was completely beyond his control.


Hearing loud ribbits up ahead, the hyena steeled himself. The exorcist was right. Up ahead, there had indeed been more of the moving frog statues. Icy blades from afar taking the creature out of the equation, the hyena kept moving forward. He did not need to worry himself over such things.


Every single stone frog destroyed as he passed through Bishui Plain, the early adult kept moving forward. He supposed, whatever the reason might have been that all these sudden influx of peculiar monsters appeared, it wasn't something he would be employed to deal with. Pushing such thoughts away, the young soldier's legs erupted into a sprint.


Running through Bishui Plain with all his might, the soldier dashed northward. He was almost there. Qingce Village was nearing. It was time to buckle down and focus, he had a recording job to do. No more nonsense, no more overthinking. It was time for action, and nothing else.


Reaching the elderly village, the lion dancer bodyguard stood by the edge of the river, waiting. Seeing him, the soldier blinked. Had he been heading to Chenyu Vale, as well? I such were the case, he supposed it couldn't be helped. Guard turning towards him, the chimera gave eye contact.


"Hey, there," the lion dancer bodyguard greeted. "You heading out to Chenyu Vale today?"


Inquiry coming his way, the soldier simply nodded. If the guard and he were heading towards the same place, it was best to not interfere with such. He had people to guard and work to attend to. He was not about to get in the way of his career, for any given reason.


"Cool," the lion guard responded. "Is it alright if we share the next raft? I have a client I'll be protecting who will be heading to Fontaine through here."


Client confidentiality broken, the hyena simply nodded. Why would he ever say no to such a thing? If he had someone he had to protect immediately, it would be awfully cruel of him to refuse to share a raft. Lion dancer guard clapping his hands together into a position of gratitude, more words had soon come his way.


"Great. Thank you so much, sir," the lion dance guard responded. As he said such, the raft had arrived.


Allowing the bodyguard to take the front seat, the chimera seated himself in the back. Straw hatted middle age men pushing the paddle forward, the early adult kept himself as still as possible. One wrong move, and he would be at the bottom of the river for the fish to eat.


Bodyguard asking if his client was waiting for him at the entrance, the hyena attempted with all his might to tune the conversation out. Whatever it was they were discussing was no business of his whatsoever. Hearing the word she uttered, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just who was his client? But, he knew that was not something he would ever be allowed to know.


Reaching Chenyu Vale after about an hour of rafting in near silence, the hyena let out a barely audible groan at the sight before him. What was Regina doing here? Why had the client been her, of all people? Couldn't he have been free from the penguin family at least in Liyue? How incredibly annoying. They were everywhere, and there was no escape.


"Are you my bodyguard?" Regina asked. Man giving her a nod, she soon bowed. "Thank you for answering my letter. I've heard Liyue has gotten to be pretty dangerous recently." She then turned towards her left, Fatui standing in the corner with an annoyed look on his face. "Are you guarding Mr. Fatui, too?"


"No, miss Regina," the lion dancer bodyguard replied. "Just you."


"Mr. ------, if he needs help, I don't mind waiting," Regina responded.


Hearing such back and forth for a moment, the early adult held back the urge to yell. Didn't she just hear what her bodyguard just said? He was protecting her, not him. He did not need his assistance today, whatsoever. Did she need some sort of reminder? He would give her one, no problem. She definitely needed one.


"I do not need escorting, miss," the hyena responded, annoyed tone of voice. "Move along."


"Alright, then," Regina responded. As she said such, she moved out of the way.


Party of two exiting the area, the early adult removed his research log from his satchel once more. Ripping out the page about telling the rogues to do their job, the chimera placed the torn sheet back into his bag. Littering was a crime he would never commit, no matter what.


Everything out of the way, the early adult prepared himself. Not seeing anything of immediate interest along the coastline, the soldier prepared himself for writing action. He knew, even if it might have looked insignificant, he had to write down anything he could possibly muster.


Standing beside the wooden pier beside the river, the chimera seated himself, for a moment. Writing down that Chenyu Vale seemed to be a raft and boat transportation heavy area, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Water everywhere across the way, he shrugged.


Raising himself back upward, the early adult had begun walking. Lush greenery from every angle, the soldier held back the urge to let out a blissful noise. This place was so nice and lovely. How had he never been asked to come here before having to go to Fontaine? It was almost as if, Chenyu Vale had not been accessible to the general public until recently. But, the hyena had been none the wiser to such.


Moving right along, nothing but green and the sidewalk in front of him graced the soldier's field of heterochromatic damaged vision. Notebook out in front of him, the chimera had begun to record once more. Writing down Chenyu Vale had a similar feel to that of Sumeru, the hyena dotted his pen.


Continuing to head upon the northern path, the chimera kept going. Perhaps, just maybe, for now, it was best to head towards Qiaoying Village before deciding where to record next. Resolute on his decision, the early adult moved forward. Such was the best course of action, for sure. There would be a lot to record here, guaranteed.


Adding another entry in his notebook about how Chenyu Vale had felt quite different from the rest of Liyue, the soldier tapped the feathered quilled pen upon the paper. Would any of this information even be useful? None of this felt like they would be of any use to Her Majesty.


Qiaoying Village approaching ever so swiftly, a wave of unease flowed through him. Her Majesty, should he be summoned to her palace and looked over his notes, he would be stabbed on the spot, without a shadow of a doubt. He knew there was a close to one hundred percent chance of such happening.


Throwing such thoughts away, the early adult moved through the quiet plains. He was jumping to conclusions, for sure. There was no way that would happen. The rest of his notes would balance out the less than useful information, for sure. That had to have been the case.


Reaching the village after about an hour of walking, a less than pleasant sight appeared within his field of vision. Lion dancer bodyguard and Regina eating dimsum together, the chimera tuned them out. The pesky penguin was out of sight, out of mind. Moving away, he prepared himself to get recording.


Spotting an entire crop of tea plants in the corner, the soldier had begun recording once more. Writing down that Chenyu Vale had been rich with bushes through of tea leaves, he could not help but wonder. Had Qiaoying Village been a tea village? He knew it had to have been a high possibility.


Moving onward towards the northern portion of the village. Finding a place of particular note that dealt with tea and the sales of some dessert known as adeptea bites, the early adult seated himself, for a moment. Writing down that the area had definitely been a tea village, he closed the notebook, for the time being.


Walking around the village for awhile, the chimera had come across the bodyguard business in the corner. Multiple generic nobodies standing around in the corner looking as though they were waiting for clients, the hyena removed his notebook from his satchel once again.


Writing down that Qiaoying Village had a large quantity of bodyguards, the soldier wrote down something he knew he would regret, in an instant. Adding a paragraph about how it would be integral to worm a Fatui into the guard's system, the hyena resisted the urge to scribble his pen over such words. Why did he put this down here? He was about to give Her Majesty sinister ideas, for sure.


Not finding much else of note, the chimera headed out of the area, for the time being. Ascending the staircase, multiple pelicans graced the area. Seeing such, he could not help but wonder. What kind of birds lived around here? But, the hyena shook his head. This sort of information wasn't important, in the slightest.


Lotus lamps in a nearby lake calling out to him, the soldier took the glowing object in front of him. Knowing he had to make sure all of them were lit up, the chimera studied all the lamps, for a moment. Bright white light appearing within the small lake, the hyena prepared himself.


Lamps all lighting up, the soldier wrote down information about the phenomenon. Paragraph about how Chenyu Vale had small lamps that float in the water that needed to be light up by the biggest one, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Would this be something that would even hold any water?


Not finding anything else of note in the village, the chimera exited the area. Figuring it was in his best interest to head towards the west, the soldier kept his eyes open for anything of interest. Not finding anything of interest as he had gotten further away from the first inhabited area, he kept on going.


Still not finding anything of interest, the soldier stared off into space. Had there had really been nothing here? He knew that couldn't have been the case. Not a single monster in the area, as well, the hyena couldn't help but wonder. Had everything been defeated since the last time he was here?


Spotting a light up in the sky, the early adult leaped towards it. Shortcut taken into the equation, the early adult recorded his findings. Writing down that getting around Chenyu Vale was made much easier for travel by jumping towards the golden lights in the sky, the early adult wrote further about such phenomenon.


Writing down one had become a carp to leap towards the golden lights, the hyena resisted the urge to erase everything he had just written down. Couldn't this have been read as complete nonsense? He knew that there was a chance everything he had just written down would have been regarded as garbage.


Adding a paragraph that such result of the carp travel might vary from person to person, the soldier shook his head. What would any of this matter whatsoever? He couldn't help but feel he would have to cross these out at a later point. Shrugging, the chimera kept moving along. If it weren't information that had any use, he supposed it did not matter.


Not seeing much anything of note as he pushed through the mountains, nothing but tall mountainscapes awaited the chimera. Seeing such, the early adult stared at them, for a moment. This was yet another area in Liyue, indeed. Reaching for the golden carp ball in the sky, the next shortcut had been upon him.


Moving through the area, something of note stuck out to the soldier. Spotting a light blue light in the sky, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. What in the world had that been? He didn't know why, but something about it felt quite important. Raising to the tip of his toes, he studied it, for a moment.


Blue light in the shape of a star, the chimera could feel a holy energy coming upward from the sky. Feeling such, multiple hypotheses flowed through him. Had this been some sort of adeptal power spread through the sky? He did not know why, but something about it felt godly.


Hopping towards the golden carp energy, the hyena studied it up closer. Seeing a star shape in the center of the blue light, the chimera jumped back downward towards the ground. Seeing it from a further angle, the early adult opened his research log for what felt like the tenth time of the day.


Writing down that the blue energy might have been the local adepti, Fujin's lost power, the early adult slammed the book shut, for the time being. That had to have been enough information about the western mountainside for now. But, as he continued moving through the northern area, something of peculiar note stuck out to him.


Spotting an elderly man advertising some special temple with challenges that would lead to treasure, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. He did not know why, but that sounded like a ton of bogus. Wise man of many years turning towards the soldier, he had soon begun to pitch his sale.


Elderly man again trying to sell to him there was treasure down in the temple, the early adult sighed. He supposed he would give this so called treasure filed temple a look through. But, he knew more than anything that there was absolutely nothing down here of note. How many people had this man ripped off? He did not wish to find out.


Letting the possible scammer take the lead, an eager look appeared on the elderly individual's face. Descending the staircase, the early adult swore he could hear him say he had found his next victim. Hearing such from under his breath, the chimera shook his head. Did he really think he'd be fooled by such obvious lie?


Apparent owner of the temple informing him to move on forward, he will have to finish some challenges or puzzles, the early adult's ears perked. Did he just sound unsure about all this? His act was slipping up already. If he were anyone else, he would have called it out by now, but the hyena kept himself quiet. It was best to let him think there had been another victim until the very end.


Finding himself in a large room with a wet floor, and many bookshelves, the chimera blinked. Was this just this man's underground study? Just who out there had been falling for any of this? There was definitely nothing here that mattered whatsoever, let alone treasure. Burying his thoughts, the hyena sauntered onward.


Finding even more bookshelves in the area with many colored books on the incorrect shelves, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just him, or had these books been radiating some sort of energy? But, the hyena shook his head. He had to have imagined it, for sure.


Spot with the books glowing, the soldier stared at the gleaming spot. Could the books be removed? Maybe it was within his best interest to take them off the shelves of which they did not belong. Resolute on his decision, the hyena attempted to do so. Every single book removed from the incorrect shelf, the chimera studied the room further.


Figuring that each and every glowing book had to be moved onto the correctly colored shelf, the chimera prepared himself. Seeing a rather peculiar looking glowing cloud symbol off in the corner, the early adult took the first book towards the glowing shelf with all his might.


Object soon moved, the soldier prepared himself for the second one to be arranged into the spot of which it needed to be. Colors soon matched as if it were a game, the chimera listened to all the sound around him. He swore he could hear the elderly man rub his hands together in the opposite room, but the hyena ignored such, for the moment.


Placing the next book on the shelf, the soldier could not help but wonder. What would any of this do? But, he already knew what such answer might have been. It would have lead to absolutely nothing, for sure. Why had he been bothering to entertain the thought it could have been something? He knew for certain it would not, but it was best to entertain the fraudster while he was still around.


Third and fourth book aligned onto the correct shelves, the chimera took a long, deep breath. Would this last one do something? Placing it, absolutely nothing happened. Elderly man clapping like he had done the most spectacular thing of all time, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Was this something he had told everyone who dared fall for what he had to offer?


Apparent owner of the temple telling him he's solved the puzzle, it's time for the tournament, the early adult wrinkled his nose. The what now? This was getting more ridiculous by the second, for sure. Standing in the arena, the hyena held back the urge to scream that he knew there wasn't any treasure, but the hyena withheld.


Multiple Hilichurls running onto the battlefield, the chimera pretended to act surprised. What an amazingly thrilling challenge, Hilichurls. How would he ever hope to beat these creatures? How terrifying he was absolutely outnumbered. He stood no chance against these ravagers.


Cutting his internal sarcasm short, the chimera rummaged through his satchel, for a moment. Coming across a Faui issued greatsword that looked strikingly similar to the Favonius Greatsword, the hyena placed the blade into his hands. This weapon would do for now. Primitive masked creatures beating their clubs, the soldier placed himself into a fighting stance.


First batch of Hilichurls defeated in a span of two minutes, the soldier crossed his arms as the elderly man in the corner clapped. Hearing such, the early adult continued to withhold any comments he might have had. What did he expect, for this to be a challenge? He was sorely mistaken, if he thought such. Even an adventurer who had just started their journey could defeat a Hilichurl.


Round two soon starting, the early adult placed his palm on the side of his temple letting out an exaggerated sigh. Oh, no, a Mitachurl army? Whatever shall he do? He was but a little damsel who had never fought before in his life. Sticking out his tongue, he threw the sarcasm away. Maybe he was getting too into the sarcasm right about now.


Mitachurl army defeated after about twenty strikes, the soldier blinked. Look of confusion on the temple man's face, the chimera cracked his currently human knuckles. Man saying under his breath most adventurers by now would have backed out, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. He would be here for the whole ride.


Final army running onto the battlefield, the hyena let his blade do the talking. Every single masked creature defeated one after another, there had been one final piece of the puzzle that threw itself into the mix. Ruin Guards dropping onto the arena, the chimera's eyebrows twitched.


Robotic creatures spinning around, the early adult jumped towards the left. Circular motion continuing for seconds on end, the hyena kept the dodges going. Bullets soon coming his way, the jumped back. Swinging his greatsword, the weapons had been sent back to their owner in a matter of moments.


Challenge coming to an end, the elderly man clapped like he had watched the best performance in his life. Seeing such, another eyeroll had been awarded to him. He said that to every adventurer who didn't back out, he bet. Fraudster then proceeding to say the treasure is completely locked up, better luck next time, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him.


Spelling out the word fraud for the man to see, a look of shock had soon decorated his face aplenty. Seeing the look on his face, the early adult took out his research log. Tome opened up to a clean page, the chimera wrote done an especially long entry about the tourist trap down below.


"In the depths of Mt. Liameng, there lies a so called secret temple lead by a man going on in his years claiming there is treasure hiding down there. But, from what I can see, it is nothing more than a tourist trap used as a mean to waste anyone's time. The person behind this scheme is nothing more than a fraudster. It is best to watch out for this individual at all costs." Dotting the last sentence with a period, the early adult glared at the elderly man. Giving a look of he could easily get away with it, the chimera signed the word fraud once again. Look on his face like he was an egg about to crack, his lips soon quivered.


"Alright, fine, I'll let you have the treasure!" the fraudster exclaimed.


Key thrown his way, the early adult opened up the secret room. Finding next to nothing but a room filled with books and a singular treasure chest, the chimera opened the trove. Finding a black sword that was made of out of iron, the hyena closed the case. There was nothing of use here.


Removing himself from the temple, the chimera stared off towards the west. He supposed, his next order of business should be Yilong Wharf. Resolute on his decision, the chimera sauntered onward. Elderly man in shambles over two callouts in the span of three minutes, no guilt graced the soldier. Maybe if he hadn't been so keen on wasting unsuspecting adventurer's time, he wouldn't have let his disdain be known.


Not spotting much on the way towards Yilong Wharf, the early adult added an addendum in the Qiaoying Village section. Writing down the area seemed to be the most densely populated with quite a lot of tea recipes to offer, the chimera shook his head. His notes were starting to sound like a poorly written magazine.


Reaching the quarter waypoint towards the boat city, something of particular note off in the corner stuck out to the hyena. Spotting a large turtle by a gravestone, the early adult dashed off towards the scene. Reptile adorning jade stones on its shell, the creature swam near him.


Creature offering its minerals, the early adult declined. Take this possibly toxic mineral? No way he could do such a thing. Not a chance. Reptile swimming away without any of it claimed, the hyena wrote about such phenomenon in the notebook. Entitling the entry, gravestone secrets, the chimera held back the urge to tear it out.


Seeing even more turtles adorning brightly colored jade in their shells, the early adult added another few sentences down below the first. Hypothesizing that the reptiles here grew minerals on their back, the chimera headed into the second largest port in all of Liyue.


Spotting multiple waterwheels everywhere, and boats docked in the corner, the early adult opened up the once more. Writing down Yilong Wharf had been a large port area where a majority of the boats in Chenyu Vale docked or left, the chimera shook his head. None of this information would have been of any use to anyone, for sure.


Finding barely anything else of interest, late evening had begun to loom in the area. Letting out a yawn, the early adult supposed it was best to stop here, for the night. Knowing it was in his best interest to return to Liyue Harbor, the hyena turned off towards the opposite direction.


But, upon reaching Qiaoying Village, the chimera could hear someone whistle towards him. Hearing such, the hyena could not help but feel a slight wave of disgust. Who was trying to get his attention? They could have achieved such in any other way. But, the chimera let it go.


Guard apologizing for the whistle, the chimera supposed he would forgive such apology. Generic nobody alerting him some man in a mask demanded he be allowed to stay in the guards sleeping quarters, the early adult let out a groan. What kind of violent persuasion tactics did the Agent use? This was not going to give the Fatui a good image, for sure.


Allowed inside, the early adult let out a groan at the sight before him. Regina sleeping in one of the beds in the corner, the annoyance itch begged him to scratch it. Wasn't she supposed to be in Fontaine? How annoying. But, the early held his contempt in. She would be gone by the morning, for sure.


Letting out a yawn, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Winter jacket unbuttoned, as well, the chimera slumped into the temporary bed. Glasses set aside, the early adult's eyes closed as soon as they hit the pillow. Wave of sleep about to take him away, one final thought wrapped vines around the soldier.


Is this mission even worth it?


***


Jolted awake deep into the middle of the night, the hyena let out a tired groan. Who had chosen to disturb his slumber? Reaching for his glasses, he held back the urge to let out an aggravated bark. Ponytailed penguin woman gazing at him with a serious look on her face, he kept holding his annoyances in. This pest, what did she want? Couldn't it have waited until morning?


"Sorry for waking you, but," Regina said in an apologetic tone. "One of the kids here seemed like they wanted to talk to you."


Hearing such, the chimera lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. What kids? He didn't see any here. Had this pesky thorn in his side had some bad dream, or something? She should keep her fantasy world to herself and not involve him. But, such had been proven wrong in a matter of moments.


Singular kid with a blue headband and face paint soon making his presence known, the soldier blinked. Why was this young boy awake right now? I was way past his bedtime. But, the hyena threw such comments in the trash. If he had something important to say, he knew it was in his best interest to hear him out.


"Mr. And Miss, please help!" the young face painted boy exclaimed. "Bluey is acting weird!"


Hearing the term bluey, the early adult scratched his head. Who now? Such name did not sound Liyuean. Was that the name of his pet dog, or something? But, the young soldier perished such thought. He seemed quite troubled in his tone. Maybe it had been best to not brush it off as a pet being ill. But, Regina soon added her annoyance to the table.


"I'm sorry, young man, I am not Liyuean," Regina responded, shaking her head.


"But, Mr. And Miss, you both have visions!" the kid exclaimed in desperation. "Please help!"


"Alright, young man, I'll see what I can do," Regina replied.


Face painted boy screaming Bluey had been in Chizhang Wall, the early adult followed from behind for the time being. Running south for quite awhile through the mountains and then some, the early adult could not help but ponder. This had been quite too far to just be a normal pet.


Taken to a large blue cat creature, the chimera scratched his cheek. This was the aforementioned Bluey? How rather peculiar. Kid calling out the feline's name and stating he brought two grownups here to help, the early adult crossed his arms across his waist. Help with what exactly?


Cat creature coughing out multiple pieces of jade on the ground, the early adult flinched. Another trio of minerals dropping down from its furry esophagus, the hyena's knees buckled. This creature, had it been poisoned? Something wasn't right here, in the slightest. Young child crying, the feline soon spoke.


"Go back home," Bluey said, voice weak. "I am fine."


"Don't listen to Bluey, Mr. and Miss!" the kid exclaimed. "Bluey doesn't look good!"


Sifting through his satchel, not a single tool had sat within. Seeing such, the chimera shook his head. What was he supposed to do about all this? There was nothing that could be done. Regina stating aloud she didn't have anything that could help with this, either, the hyena threw his inability to do so into the ring, as well.


Young boy apologizing to his possible pet pal that he can't do anything, but he'll try and find something, he soon lead the party of two back to Qiaoying Village. Kid dashing back to wherever he came from, Regina entered the quarters first. Watching as the young man vanished, the soldier stepped inside after a few moments.


Regina out like a light within seconds, the soldier crawled back into the bed. Glasses put away, the early adult's eyes closed once more as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep ready to take him away in a moment's notice, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


Is Clearwater Jade toxic now, too?


***


"Could the Clearwater Jade of Chenyu Vale be toxic?
Last time I had heard, that wasn't the case.
Even so, it seems that could have changed overnight.
Ah, but maybe that truly isn't the case. Who knows,
Really? I most certainly don't.
Well, I suppose I should proceed with utmost caution.
All and all, that incident it has become a blur.
Those days I spent in an
Endless daze, I don't
Remember them.


Just bits and pieces here
And there, nothing more. But, I
Don't think I should ignore this.
Everything about all this


Is quite fishy.
Something isn't right here.


I should try my best to investigate
This later. But,


Perhaps I am overthinking. Yes, I am
Overthinking. That has to be
It. Maybe Clearwater Jade isn't toxic, but it's
Something else. Maybe that's it.
Or, perhaps, I am just mistaken.
No. I don't believe I am.
Obviously, something is going on. Proceed with the
Utmost caution.
Something just


Isn't right here.


Though, I am unsure what that might be.
However, for now I think
It is best I head for the southern mountains. There is
Nothing I can do for this Bluey creature. I
Know I should not step away from this


Issue, but what is it
That I can do? I don't know. I will have to


Come back to this at a later point.
Or, maybe it will be solved already.
Ultimately, I haven't the foggiest of ideas.
Let's just put a large pin into this for now.
Do I think that this will simply resolve itself overnight?


That's impossible. It definitely will not.
However worse it may get in the time gap
At this point in time,
There's nothing I can really say.


In any case, the
Southern areas of the vale are upon me. I believe there is a few mountain ranges,


No, a lot of mountainous regions
On the southern part of
The vale. Mt. Xuanlian?


Guess it is best I aim for this
Open area for now.
Or at least try to head here.
Don't know what's in store for me here, but I mustn't falter."


Upon waking up the next morning, a loud snore removed him from his slumber. Hearing such, the early adult let out a groan. Regina popping multiple nose bubbles in her sleep, the chimera groaned. Wasn't this pesky thorn supposed to be in Fontaine by now? But, the early adult shrugged. Why should he care about her circumstances?


Removing himself from the guard's sleeping quarters, the early adult had begun to head towards the southern exit of the village. Figuring it would have been in his best interest to head off towards Mt. Xuanlian for the day, the hyena cracked his knuckles. It was time to go to Teatree Slope first, and record everything he possibly could muster.


Qiaoying Village soon far behind him, something of peculiar note immediately caught the soldier's attention. Spotting a floating white teapot again pouring itself a cup, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Was Fujin up to something again? Whatever it was, he wanted absolutely no part in it.


Writing down that some teapots in Chenyu Vale had been hit was adeptal energy, the early adult stared at the leaflet in front of him. Adding a sentence that these teapots could contain the powers of an ancient god, the chimera tried to not rip the leaflet up and throw it out. What in the world was he writing down? That couldn't have possibly been even close to true.


Moving along for quite some time towards the slope, a new challenger had added itself to the mix. Finding many large pots spread out almost everywhere, the chimera tilted his head. What could these have possibly been? The soldier did not know, but something about them seemed quite important.


Hitting the pots, food had begun to drop out of them. Seeing such, the chimera jumped three steps back. What were these, a mystery box out in the middle of nowhere? Who put carrots and wheat inside here? But, he supposed random vegetables and plants could appear anywhere in Teyvat without any sort of explanation.


Tapping another pot, metallic trinkets had begun to drop out of multiple other holes at once. Seeing such, the chimera ignored such spoils of war. What were these? Bandanna then dropping out as well, the hyena did not pocket a single one. These were far from meant for him to see.


Flowers dropping out of the last pots in the area, the early adult let out a growl. Who was shoving flowers in these things and damaging them like this? How cruel of them. Whoever did this was a menace to the plant world and should be punished for their herbal crimes.


Floral criminal not standing up, the early adult wrote down his findings. Writing down that there had been strange pots everywhere that contained a random assortment of items, the hyena let out a sigh. What use would any of this have for Her Majesty? None of this at all, for any given reason, would mean anything to anyone.


Reaching Teatree Slope after about an hour of walking, quite a lot peculiar things stuck out to the soldier. Spotting bubbles in the corner of his eye sitting and doing not much of anything, the soldier could not help but wonder. What was that all about in the corner over there? But, such had not been the end of the oddities.


Spotting multiple owl statues lying around with an extremely sharp gaze on their faces, the chimera tilted his head. What were these doing lying around like this? Picking one up, he soon dropped it back down on the grass, but as he had done such, the stone bird called out to him.


"This isn't my spot," the owl statue said with discontent.


Hearing such, the early adult backed two steps away. This wasn't its spot, what did that even mean? Lifting up the creature again, he placed it on the ground once more. But, such line about it not being its spot had been repeated once again. Letting out a groan, the hyena recorded such entry in the tome of knowledge.


Adding an entry stating there had been odd owl statues that seemed to abide by some sort of placement system, the soldier prepared to move on. Whatever the puzzle might have been, he could figure it out later. He had to head off towards Yaodie Valley and Mt. Xuanlian.


But, everything had soon taken an immediate turn for the worse. Miasma glowing a bright blue deep within the Teatree Slope, the chimera's heart skipped two beats. The problematic growth had grown back already? What an awful state of affairs. He needed to hurry and get rid of it as soon as possible.


Slimes coming out of the woodworks with an extremely fierce aura, the chimera's knees buckled. Was it just him, or had these gelatinous creatures been far more menacing than normal? Knowing there was no time to waste, the chimera unsheathed the greatsword from behind him.


Monsters blasting bits of metal onto him, the early adult let out a pained scream. Not this attack again. Just what in the world had happened to these enemies? Where had they gotten the power of metal from? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was no time for thinking. He had to get on with the battle.


Enemies immediately shielding themselves from his claymore, the chimera's eyes twitched. They had been going on the defensive already? Surely, it had to have been far too soon for this. Attacks doing absolutely nothing whatsoever, the early adult stared off into space. He was doomed, for sure.


Tossing down a flower friend, the windwheel aster brought to life by his Dendro vision had been disintegrated into nothing in a matter of moments. Seeing such, doom loomed over the soldier. Both physical prowess and elemental powers were useless. He was doomed, done, finished.


But, such had immediately been far from the truth. Regina running onto the scene, armed aplenty, her sword had soon been infused with bright yellow energy. Sword attacks doing next to nothing for a few minutes, the early adult shook his head. She should just give up. She wasn't doing much better at this than he was.


Vision glowing on her waist as her blade had been infused with her own element after the fifth strike of her sword, the slimes had soon been hit by a blind spot. Shields down after about three further five strike combos, the soldier's jaw dropped straight open. This was working? What was the secret?


Opening soon created, the early adult's claymore had soon joined the party. Running towards the Miasma, the branches had begun to wither. Other slimes vanquished with Regina's penguin sword work, the hyena rescinded his disdain, for a brief moment. Her strategy actually worked. How commendable. But, he soon returned such thorns into his side. He didn't need her help whatsoever. Surely, with a little more effort, he would have won on his own. But, he had soon been handed a whistle.


"Blow this if you need my help, Mr. Fatui," Regina said. "And, I'll come right over."


Pesky penguin soon leaving, the early adult let out a tiny laugh. Blow this toy if he needed help? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. How incredibly unnecessary. He would do no such thing. He won't be needing her assistance anymore. Didn't she have to go to Fontaine? She needed to focus on her own mission.


Thoughts bearing bitter tea leaves, the chimera kept moving forward. Not finding anything of interest for quite some time, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Had he already located everything of interest within the southern vale? But, he had soon come across another peculiar area.


Spotting more of the hollow pots he had discovered earlier, a cave off in the distance caught the hyena's attention. Seeing such in the corner, the early adult stepped towards it. But, what awaited him inside had soon been a whole never layer of confusion served cold over rice.


Walking past an owl statue on top of some glowing green square, the early adult crouched downward. These bird objects, were they supposed to go on top of pedestals? Writing down his findings, the hyena had soon been in for another surprise, demands served hot over sautéed fish.


Owl statue demanding he catch butterflies for it, the hyena tilted his head. He had to go and do what now? Creature not even asking nicely, the chimera groaned. This statue had quite the attitude. Attempting to leave as if nothing happened, the rocky creature of not flight yelled back at him.


"Aye! Who said you could leave!" the owl statue screamed. "Go collect my butterflies scattered around here and put them in the jar!"


Hearing such, the hyena sighed. He supposed he wasn't getting out of this one, was he? Knowing he had to do as he was told, the chimera turned around. Whatever was ordered of him, goes. He had absolutely not choice in the matter whatsoever. Spotting red butterflies in the corner, the soldier dashed off towards them.


First set of butterflies caught, the owl let out a scream. Stating the pot had been on the ceiling, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. The pot was on the ceiling? Why there, of all places? But the golden carp balls in the sky had soon come to the rescue. Insects soon entering the pot, the soldier returned to the ground.


Orange and yellow fluttering creatures tossed into the pot, as well, the soldier huffed a breath. Just how many more of these would he have to collect and return to the ceiling? But, he had soon come to a realization. These small beings, they had all so far been the colors of the rainbow. Did only seven exist? He supposed he was about to find out.


Green and blue butterflies returning themselves to the pot immediately upon capture, the early adult could not help but begin to ponder. Could there have been some sort of connection between Chenyu Vale and fluttering creatures? He knew there had to have at least been a small connection.


Indigo and violet flittering creatures returned to the pot, the owl statue said he had fulfilled his task. Told to get out of its home right now, the early adult exited the area. Knowing such phenomenon could not go unrecorded, the hyena wrote down the happenings within the secret cave.


Writing down the possible connection between Chenyu Vale and butterflies, the soldier headed towards Yaodie Valley. Spotting multiple peculiar owl statues with a red marker over them, the early adult walked towards it. Challenge starting up immediately that told him to collect Geo Particles, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. He had to collect them here and now?


Spotting another odd owl statue that created golden carp ride spots with the touch of a button, the early adult did such. Only able to create three at one time, the chimera had been pushed towards the particles upon the sky. Every single one collected within the time limit, the early adult added an entry into his notebook about such phenomenon.


Further puzzles with abnormal conditions, the hyena stared off into space for a moment. Some of these challenges, they did not feel natural, in the slightest. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. He had to have been overthinking it. There was no way that was the case.


Finishing all the challenges and puzzles galore, an unfortunate guest awaited him in Yaodie Valley. Miasma standing out in the open, the early adult clicked his tongue. More of these harmful growths had appeared in Chenyu Vale? He needed to put a stop to this right away.


Regina already on the case destroying vines aplenty, the early adult held in the urge to distract her. She had already been fighting the miasma? He needed to do his part to stop it. Pesky penguin already having knocked their shields out of the park, the hyena's greatsword added itself to the mix.


Miasma gone without a trace after about forty strikes, Regina had soon run off once more. Nothing of especial note present within Yaodie Valley, the early adult wrote down the situation with the miasma. Adding a note that it seems destroying it all depends on defeating mobs of enemies then destroying the branches, the hyena closed the tome.


Reaching Mt. Xuanlian, the chimera could not help but feel a rather strong energy exuding from the area. Feeling such, he could not help but feel a sea of questions drown him at bay. What was this sudden sense of foreboding he was getting? Turning his head towards the right and left, something new caught his attention.


Spotting strange floating teapots and an energy device in the corner, the hyena ran towards it. What was this? Seeing a glowing symbol in the corner of the empty object, the soldier tilted his head. Was this yet another puzzle he had to figure out? He supposed it was worth a shot.


Pots high off the ground, and moving platform in the corner, the early adult could feel a gust of wind. Wind glider soon deployed, he had been lifted upward. Three teapots sitting on platforms, the hyena prepared himself. Did he have to fill them with energy? Cloud in the palm of his hands, he knew it had been time to try his luck.


Teapot exuding a pool of green smoke, the soldier practically fell off the moving platform. What was it that he was doing, exactly? Attempting with the best of his ability to aim the next layer of energy, the soldier closed his eyes. Missing by a kilometer, the chimera tried again.


All three kettles filled, the chimera jumped back downward towards the ground. Writing down such phenomenon in the notebook, the hyena added an entry upon the pages that Chenyu Vale, even down to the mechanisms had been all about tea. Closing the tome, further tea puzzles awaited.


Tea kettles given their green smoke one after another, the soldier had soon been accompanied by an unfortunate force to be reckoned with once again. Miasma creeping up from behind him, the early adult prepared himself for battle. Such fight, however, had only begun to bend the scales.


Slimes with suctioned tendrils crawling out from the miasma branches, the early adult froze. Where did these creatures come from? Slimy appendages parrying his attacks for minutes on end, fear nibbled on the cartilage of the hyena's ear. Had the slimes evolved? What was going on here?


Slimy limbs of doom wrapping him up and spitting him out into the ground, the soldier let out a scream. Having new arms to play with had to have been the biggest curse of them all. Attempting to fight back, the soldier let out a scream. But, his blade had soon proved useless.


Absolutely nothing doing for minutes on end, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Surely, his flower friends could do the job. Such had been far from the case, as well. Silk flower friend disintegrated into nothing, the chimera reluctantly blew the whistle. Ending the blow, regret flowed through the chimera.


Regina coming speedily quick like she was some road running bird creature, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What an incredibly fast young woman. He was a lady of her word, for sure. Penguin crushing the tendrilled slimes into oblivion in no time, the early adult bowed a thank you. But, she had soon admitted something of utter irritation.


"You seem as thought you're wondering why I'm not in Fontaine yet, Mr. Fatui," Regina responded, shaking her head. "Well, to be honest with you, I've delayed my trip to meet up with Kai. I couldn't just leave what's going on alone."


Hearing such, the early adult blinked. Maybe he had been too judgmental of Regina. She had been nothing more than a helpful young woman. Penguin exiting the area shortly after, the soldier walked around Mt. Xuanlian for hours on end. But, as he had done so, not many discoveries had been made.


Absolutely nothing of particular note except further surprise pots, the early adult threw a towel upon the ground. Had that been all there was here? He couldn't help but feel a major wave of disappointment the further he had traversed through the area. Preparing himself to head to the southern most area, the soldier tempered his expectations.


Finding an entire assortment of owl statues across a strange bed of water that could be walked on, the early adult wrote down such findings. Even more lotus lamps floating in riverbeds, some far out of reach from the others, the chimera wrote down further conclusions within the confines of his information log.


Coming across nothing else of note, evening had soon come back to haunt the soldier. Turning back around, the early adult let out a yawn. It was time to call it a day and return to Qiaoying Village. Nothing further discovered on the way back, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had Chenyu Vale even had anything of interest to spot during the night?


Knowing such could have been left for another time, the chimera kept walking. Why was he wasting his time thinking about such? If there was something that could have been awaiting him during the night hours, he could look at a later point. His day was done for now. He was clocking out. Whatever that word meant. He had never seen such a device in his life.


Reaching the village, the early adult let out yet another yawn. Taking another good long look around the area, nothing further screamed out to the soldier. Blue face painted kid again looking distressed over something, the hyena gazed at him from afar, this boy, something was different about him from the other children in the village. What could it have been? But, he shook his head. There was nothing peculiar here. Face paint wasn't a reason for concern.


Entering his temporary quarters, Regina had already been out like a log, snoring loudly. Hearing such, the chimera placed the pillow over his head as he had placed himself in the bed. He took back what he thought earlier, she was a mild pest, for sure. Attempting to tune out the racket, the hyena closed his eyes. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought looped on repeat.


What was going on in Chenyu Vale?


He did not know, but something was incredibly off here.


***


Jolted awake in the middle of the night once again, the early adult let out a groan. Whatever it was, couldn't it have waited until morning? Reaching for his glasses, Regina's penguin flippers tugged on his layered shirts. Not letting go, he rolled his eyes to the ceiling. What was so important it couldn't wait until daylight hours?


"Sorry for waking you again," Regina said in an apologetic tone. "But, the kid wants to speak to you."


Young boy with blue face paint standing in the room with his hands behind his back, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why hadn't this kid been in bed? His parents had to have been worried sick about him by now. But, he threw such thoughts away as the child had begun to scream at the stark of night.


"Mr., Miss, please help Bluey!" the young kid pleaded. "Something's wrong." But, Regina soon interjected.


"I thought I told you yesterday I'm not from Liyue," Regina reminded him.


"Please, miss, you have a Vision!" the boy pleaded.


Knowing it would be cruel of him to reject the boy's request, the young lad lead the way back to Chizhang Wall. But, what awaited him inside had been yet another surprise for the ages. Feline creature coughing out jade once again, the chimera had been on high alert, at all times.


Feline creature attempting to say something, the minerals had soon become monsters of their own. Regina raising her blade, the chimera took out his greatsword. This creature, had it just given birth to jade babies? Unbelievable. What in the world was happening here? This had to have been a dream.


Tiny infant sized jade creatures defeated one after another, the early adult remained on high alert. Would more monsters soon grace his presence soon? He needed to be ready at every opportunity. But, such opportunity never came. Large blue cat creature telling her possible pet owner to go back home, Regina soon added her thoughts into the mix.


"This Suanni doesn't seem all that well, but, I'll do something about it," Regina said, back turned. "Mr. Fatui, young man, I'll take care of this. You two should go back to sleep." As she said such, she immersed herself in research.


Shrugging the early adult headed back off towards Qiaoying Village. If Regina thought she could do something about this, he didn't see why not. Returning to his temporary bed, the soldier threw the covers over him. Feeling himself doze of almost immediately, one final thought looped on repeat.


What was happening in Chenyu Vale?


***


"The penguin chimera is gone, I'm free! I am
Overjoyed. She's nowhere to be seen!


Could she have finally left?
Here's a letter. 'Sorry, Mr. Fatui,
I have to go to Fontaine.' My time with a thorn in my side has reached its
Zenith! No more penguins, no more books, no more creature's dirty looks!
Huh, why did I just sing that?
Ah, forget it. She's gone
Now, off to Fontaine. Stop being so
Glad about all this. She's not nearly as bad as Earl, nor Kaiser.


Well, no matter. Today, I will be heading towards Chizhang Wall
Although, to be honest, something just isn't right. I am
Likely overthinking, but I don't know. It's also
Likely I am not.


It's somewhere in between.


Guess I'll move
Onward towards Chizhang Wall. Let's go."


Waking up the next morning, the soldier slapped his cheeks. Today, he would head off towards Chizhang Wall and tackle the last area he had yet to cover in his notes. Buckling down on such, the early adult prepared himself. It was finally time. Perhaps, just maybe, along the way he would find out more information about the Suanni creature.


Regina nowhere to be found, a letter had soon awaited him on the table in the corner. Regina informing him she had to leave for Fontaine after her younger brother had come by to give her a stern lecture about timeliness, the early adult threw the letter away. Did she really need to tell him about all this? He thought not.


Moving out through the village, a brand new challenger had added itself to the battlefield. Group of light blue wildcats lunging towards him, the chimera flinched. Where had those creatures come from? Whatever hole they had crawled out of, he needed to take care of this situation right away.


Fights becoming one sided in a matter of moments, the early adult had hardly broken a sweat. What was going on here, why had these creatures been so weak today? Something wasn't right here. Had something been wrong with them to lead to their current state of meekness?


Next set of feline creatures coughing out bits of jade and throwing them the chimera's way, the chimera blinked. These monsters weren't putting up much of a fight, either. Had all of them been poisoned? He did not quite understand. Something was off about this whole situation.


Further feline creatures falling to their own mineral coughing fits, the early adult had begun to lose the will to fight. Why was he battling clearly ill creatures? This wasn't a fair fight whatsoever. Maybe it was best to just leave them as they were, for the time being. Raising the white flag, the chimera pushed onwards towards Yilong Wharf.


Writing down his various encounters with weakened Suanni like beasts, the soldier wrote down a theory. Recording that he suspected the jade had been poisoned in some way, the hyena wrote down, but, that's just a theory, a soldier theory. Cheeks growing cold, he immediately erased such flavor text. Why did he write down that stupid sentence? Her Majesty would have him killed for goofing off, for sure.


Running through Yilong Wharf and out towards the mountain range around it, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Not finding anything of immediate interest, the hyena let out a sigh. What was the point of the mission again? He was starting to not know.


Spotting multiple owl statues along the pathway that demanded they be placed in their rightful spots, the chimera attempted to place them on top of the jade plates upon the ground. Succeeding upon doing so, multiple treasure chests had begun to pop out of nowhere one after another.


Ignoring all the treasures laid out, the soldier had soon reached Mt. Mingyuan. But, what awaited him here was a whole entire can of worms ready for eating. Owl statues moving towards him at breakneck speed, the early adult threw down a flower friend in retaliation.


Bird monuments falling one after another, the early adult let out a weak huffed breath. What was that all about? But, he shook his head. Perhaps it had just been abyssal energy again. Nothing he couldn't take care of. Multiple other owl statues destroyed one after another, Jademouth had soon be reached.


Solving multiple puzzles one after another, the soldier had been taken to a small hidden spot deep upon the large monument floating upward. Golden carp energy soon dragging him through a sealed off wall, the next order of business was upon him. Owl statue turned to is rightful place, further things of interest called out to him.


Another blue star shaped object floating above the water, the early adult attempted to grab it. Doing so after a short while, the chimera could not help but feel a slight wave of bewilderment. What had that done just now? Feeling a miniscule layer of energy inside him, the chimera grabbed his notebook once more.


Writing down everything he had suspected about the blue star object, the hyena threw himself out of the secret walled area. Everything within Jademouth soon handled shortly, the soldier prepared himself for one last final hurrah within his Chenyu Vale log of research.


Reaching Chizhang Wall after about two hours of walking, a rather peculiar set of instructions had soon come his way. Multiple stone pillars in their incorrect places, the early adult sighed. He had to repair some architecture? He should not have been the one on the job to do this.


Placing the stone pillar down on a spot with an arch and a tinier one that had been next to it, one of the puzzles had soon been done right. Rain coming down fast as he had done such, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Where had this sudden shift in weather come from?


Terrifying fire in the corner undoing itself, the chimera turned towards the pits of former heat. Did having those lit up with flames mean the doors would remain locked? Such, however, had been far from the case. Gates proceeding to open, the soldier prepared himself to set down the rest of the architecture.


Finishing up the last layers of the large building puzzle after about hours of working, the early adult swore he could smell incense burn from afar. Feeling such, he couldn't help but wonder. Where had that scent come from? But, the early adult shrugged. He hardly cared. There was no time to think about that.


Secret room soon opened as all the architecture had been in the right places, the hyena brushed his currently human hands together. He had finished all the building requirements. There was absolutely nothing else left to do within this area. Writing down multiple details about the area, the early adult's thoughts soon wandered.


The Suanni at the underground domain, how were they doing? Maybe it was best to check up on them before looking over his notes one last time. Running through strange ruins that were empty with nothing but a broken Ruin Grader, the soldier made the leap of faith. But, immediately upon getting here, the creature soon coughed up enough Clearwater jade to help a certain glasses woman to become stronger. Snapping themselves out of their hacking fit, the cat creature soon spoke.


"It's you again, you know what, I'll just tell you the truth," the Suanni said in a weak voice. It then dropped more pieces of Clearwater Jade from its throat. "I am not the real Lingyuan." But, as they said such, their coughs had only gotten stronger.


Hearing such, the early adult could feel alarm bells go off in his head. What did they just say? They weren't the real Lingyuan? What did any of that mean? He did not understand a single that had just been said to him. But, the next line had thrown his socks off into the abyss.


"I'm going to leave this place," faux Lingyuan said. "Could you assist me in creating a parting ceremony?"


Requested in a polite tone, the early adult nodded. Help with a parting ceremony? Was this really the right course of action? But, he supposed he should at least lend them a hand. Moving from place to place setting up multiple incense mantels around Chizhang Wall, the early adult could not help but wonder again. What did they mean by they weren't the true Lingyuan? But, his questions soon had answers.


"Truth be told, young one, I am a clone of Lingyuan created by a certain someone," the fake Lingyuan said, but as they said such, more jade had been coughed out. "A failed clone."


Hearing such, the early adult could feel a shock shoot down his spine. This feline creature was a clone of the real thing? Who would do such a thing? Why would anyone do such a thing? Whoever had done so was quite strange, for sure. Who could have done it? His mind was drawing blanks as he thought about such. Nothing was coming to him.


Parting soon all set up, the early adult had been informed to head to Qiaoying Village. Faux Lingyuan telling him to get all the kids in the village to help send them off, the hyena could feel his heart turn to stone. Every single child in the village? Why all of them? He was hardly prepared for this.


Convincing all the children to come with him to Chizhang Wall, the roundup of small heads had soon took off. Sea of small feet trailing behind him, multiple questions had come his way. Three kids asking is Bluey sick, the chimera froze in his tracks. What could he say in this situation?


Giving a slow nod, multiple kids said in unison they had to send Bluey off so they could get better, the early adult shrugged. Could a clone get better? He did not think so, but he knew there was no way he could tell the children the truth about the matter whatsoever. There was no way he could. It was best to leave the part out about the cloning shenanigans.


Parting ritual soon ready to begin, the early adult lit up the incenses one after another. Intense smell on the air, the early adult held back the urge to gag. What was this burning scent? But he soon tuned it out as multiple children had begun to scream in tears one after another.


"Bluey, please don't go!" one child shouted.


"We don't wanna say goodbye!" another child shouted.


"Please stay! We'll help you get better together!" a third child shouted.


"Sorry, kids, I am too ill," the faux Suanni said. "I have to go to Celestia."


But, as the parting ritual had been about ready to wrap up, a surprise appearance added itself to the mix, gigantic butterfly dropping down flapping its wings with a fervor, the entire ground shook with a fervor. Children remaining unscathed, a human formed Fujin with bright black hair and a forehead jewel soon appeared in front of Siorc.


"This butterfly could poison all of Chenyu Vale!" Fujin shouted.


Hearing such, the early adult immediately sprung into action. This creature would be able to do such a thing? He could not let that happen. Creature soon vanquished after one-hundred strikes, the parting ceremony resumed in an area known as Chiwang Wall after a brief cleanup, a large glowing light surrounded the clone.


Parting soon finished, the children cried one after another. Intense sorrow overpowering him, the chimera added his own tears to the mix. With greetings, there had always been farewells, hadn't there? What a bitter taste. Children all going home to their mothers, the hyena prepared himself to leave Chenyu Vale. Motivation was dead and gone.


Tears rolling for hours on end, the chimera had soon reached the capital city of Liyue, Agent's mask looking at him with confusion, the chimera gave him a confused glance as well. Had he come back from the job too early? He would apologize immediately if so. But, a question had come his way he had been ill prepared for.


"Soldier, why are you crying?" the Agent asked.


Wiping his tears, the early adult shook such emotions away. Why had he shown weakness in front of the agent? He was dead now, for sure. Agent soon demanding his notebook, the early adult handed it over. Question repeated a second time, the hyena sighed. Would telling him it was nothing get him off his back?


"Nothing, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. "Apologies."


Agent flipping through the notebook, a wave of unease had begun to flow through him. Had he not written enough notes? He was going to get a gift to his stomach any second now, if that was the case. Tome slammed shut, the hyena yelped. Did he have to be so loud about it?


"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent responded. "You're dismissed. Go back to Snezhnaya this instant."


Dismissal soon granted, the chimera removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint soon highlighted, the soldier closed his eyes. Reaching the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking, the chimera paced around on the icy cold floors for hours on end. Thoughts about cloning monsters looping on repeat, a yawn overtook him as sixty minutes had soon become three-hundred-sixty.


Heavy wave of tiredness flowing through him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed, as well, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, as well, one final thought poked the active shark grooves of his brain as the tormented world of dreams dragged him back in.


There's clones amongst him.

 

[Palamon]

32. Liyue's Labyrinths of Danger: Corridors of Chaos

"No, this just doesn't add up
Or maybe I'm mistaken
What's going on in Liyue?


There is just so much
Happening everywhere
I really don't know what to think.
No, I suppose it's just all
Getting to be too much
So much chaos.


All too much for me to handle, but I need to
Remove this line of thinking
Everything I have to do I


Just have to do it. No complaining
Utter not a single word
So, it hardly matters
That it is


Getting to be too much
Everyone knows
That I can't refuse work
That I can't say no
I am not allowed to refuse
Not allowed to stray.
Good thing I am labelled, 'the quiet one.'


Well, I guess I am
Ever the quiet one
It is best to stay silent
Rather than speaking
Don't waste my time saying anything
Even if I have
Rhetorical question.


All is better left
Never said. It's better this way.
Don't say anything don't


Weep out a complaint.
Everything will be fine
If I just do as I'm told.
Right, so
Domains in Liyue
Everything about this
Reeks of the abyssal gazelles.


They seem to be doing everything linked to
High Octane Chaos.
Even though the past five days were
Relatively calm aside for some
Erroneous hiccups


In Chenyu Vale, I know they're up to
Something. I highly


Doubt these
Ominous domains don't have their
Malicious names written
All over it.
It's always them
Never anyone else.
So, they are an


Easy suspect. They are repeat
Villains upon this
Ever growing battlefield. I'm
Reaping what they're sewing.
Yet, I know the
Will continue to do this
How are they not satisfied?
Each and every time they exact
Revenge again and every time they
Exact it, there is something


I am left wondering:


Are they just going to
Move onto their next


Viscous plot? It's an
Endless cycle of doom.
Really, at this point, I have
Yet to come to any sort of


Conclusion. For what do they seek revenge
On? I doubt it's all because of me.
No. I'm not special,
For I am not their only target.
Ultimately, I know that
So many people have been
Egged into this, I think.
Do I know how many?


Well, no.
However, it has to be a large quantity
Of chimeras.


Obviously, Earl is a member of their
Revenge club.


When he and Rabiu
Had leapt up on stage
And tried to fight
Them, or fought their


Controlled monsters, they were
Added. And that's my fault. They are
Unrelenting, I think there's
Some others, too. Parisa?
Each and every single
Denizen underwater?


There is so many factors I
Have yet to realize.
I think this web is
Starting to get deeper


Is it going to get further entangled? I


Have no clue.
Ah, well. I
Very much do not have any time to deal, my
Efforts must go to


All the domains that have spread.


Bring it on,
All of these
Domains are going down.


For, I am her majesty's pawn
Each and
Every single
Labyrinth? Gone. All of them?
I will deliver the biggest of battles.
Nothing shall remain,
Get ready, for


Action. So,
Bring on the traction.
Open the door to counteraction.
Unleash the beast,
Take me to the place


I need, diligence is key.
That's the way to successful living."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a never ending wheel of doom, circling over and over on repeat. The elliptical was a jagged oval, dancing in the shadows with only demons in the audience. The night before him would add more spikes to the broken circle, as well.


Before him had been a field of alabasters. The flowers were soft, and white in the shape of a bowl. Seeing such flowers, the hyena could not help but feel a heavy wave of confusion. Where in the dream world could he have possibly been right now? He had never encountered white lotuses in the mortal, waking world.


Seating himself by the flowers, the early adult stared off into space. But, as he had done so, something peculiar had appeared within his distanced dream vision. Spotting a castle from afar, a sudden itch took the soldier away. That palace, he had to check to it out. Standing himself upward, the soldier had begun walking.


Spotting a large red carpet in the corner, the early adult a second wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. What was this doing here? Stepping foot upon the rug of nothing, the early adult kept walking. Black castle imbued in a heavy amount of windy waves, the early adult blinked. Why had it been windy? How unusual.


Dragging his dream feet across the carpet, the chimera could not help but start to wonder. Just who could have possibly owned this castle? The only palace he had ever been aware of within Teyvat had been Her Majesty's. Could there have been others hiding in plain sight? But, the early adult shook the dream head. That wasn't it. This was a dream. Fake locations existed within the mindscape for the sake of existing.


But, the thoughts kept rolling. This palace in the subconscious land had to have been owned by someone. Continuing to walk upon the carpet, the early adult shrugged. He supposed he was about to find out whose castle it was. There was no way it did not belong to someone, even if the person was a fictional product of the imagination.


Entrance looming ever so closer, a heavy wave of foreboding flowed through the soldier. Would something tormenting be about to await him? Any second now, and the floor would be lava, guaranteed. Reaching the gate after about fifty dream minutes, the soldier gulped. Tilting his head upward, the soldier studied the dream palace, for a moment.


In front of him had been a pitch black castle with a foreboding aura radiating throughout, the sound of thunder rolling overtook the area. Hearing such, the hyena let out a tiny yelp. Were there a group of mice in a cage in here plotting to take over the world? But, the chimera shook his head. That was incredibly unlikely, for sure. There was no way that would happen, even in a dream.


Castle door dropping down looking ready to release the trojan horses, the soldier stepped inward. Hearing the sound of an organ playing in the distance, the hyena let out a gulp. Observing the area around him, the uncomfortable feelings only grew. Finding himself in a castle foyer with bright red carpeted stairs going up towards a second floor and towards a basement, the chimera prepared himself for the illusion of choice.


But, such choice never came. Organ only getting louder for minutes on end, the floor beneath him cracked into a thousand pieces all at once. Dropping downward for a brief dream second, gravity threw the chimera for a loop. Falling downward faster and faster, an unfortunate face awaited him down in the palace basement.


Spotting Kelebek from the backside slamming one's fingers upon the organ in front of one, the early adult grit the dream teeth. Of course it was one of the abyssal gazelles. Who else could it have been? Even in his dreams, he could never escape their constant wrath. What was one planning this time? He knew nothing good certainly was about to await him. Chaotic discordant tune only getting louder as the minutes grew faster, a side eye had soon been awarded to the hyena.


"He is finally here!" Kelebek shouted, playing the organ even louder. "You have a gift for him!"


Chaotic tune of doom only getting louder as the dream seconds marched onward, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. What kind of gift was one giving him this time? But, his question had soon been answered, in a subconscious instant. Whiffing up a simulated scent of fire, the early adult's dream eyes opened wide.


Multiple explosives dropping themselves out of the organ's pipes one after another, the early adult tried to turn around. But, such action never came. Feeling a nonexistent adhesive glue his currently hyena legs in place, the soldier shook with a fervor. It was done, he was about to become an explosive target for the eyes to see.


Kaboom, whammo.


Explosive gift coming his way, the early adult's chest had been given a charred present. Uniform melting away, the chimera dropped onto the dream ground. Second commodity coming his way, the chimera flinched. Why did this feel so real? Was he even dreaming right now? Looming in and out of dream consciousness, the hyena awaited for defeat to take him away, but a shout had soon ruptured his subconscious eardrums.


"You're just getting started!" Kelebek shouted, hand raised up above one.


Second wave of explosives decorating his short body, the early adult had become flat as a pancake, served cold. Barrage of red bombs raining down on him, defeat loomed over the soldier's shoulder. World around him going black, the chimera let doom shake his hand. Safety was dead, the world was falling, the sky was rotting. Feeling himself fade away, one final thought of regret threw the soldier into the nonexistent grave.


Curiosity killed the hyena.


He should not have attempted to walk over to that castle.


***


"I am starting to think that the


Abyssal gazelles revenge
Might extend past Teyvat.


Something is telling me
That this is just the beginning
And they will be
Ready and able at any given moment
To go other places beyond this continent. Or, maybe
I'm overthinking.
No. I most certainly am not. These
Gazelles are without question planning something.


There is absolutely no way they aren't. Or, maybe I am
Overthinking. That's an


Especially high possibility. Are these two even from the abyss? I don't know they feel
Xeno. But, I shouldn't judge.
Perhaps, the abyss is full of creatures similar
Enough, or are equal to
Chimeras. After all, I have never been
Told the origins of chimeras or where


They originated from. Mother
Has never told me either. I never asked her,
Either. Even if she were still with me, I would never


Relay such question. It will
Ever remain a mystery to me. It
Very much so should remain that way. An
Eerie mystery. It is
Nothing I'd ever need to know.
Guess if my mother wanted to have told me in my stolen childhood, she would have.
Everything is better left unknown.


Perhaps it is best I never
Learn. But, I suppose, were I to, nothing would change.
Or, I suppose, whatever
The origins are supposedly would not surprise me.


Even if I am a
Xeno creature
To most people, I already know I am abnormal.
Even though there are other animal humanoid species, I am
Not regarded with the same respect as them in society.
Don't think too deeply about it.
Stop thinking about it.


Be that as it may, I still am suspecting something.
Every time I encounter the abyssal gazelles,
Yet another chaotic thing has happened because
Of them. Lately, aside from one singular happening in Chenyu Vale
Nothing else has not related to them.
Do they want to see the world burn? I am sure


They do. They want to see the world simmer.
However, I mustn't let them succeed, I need to pour
Everything in ensuring they fail.


But, if I am not told to go
Over to them and
Really, at this point I am used to this
Doom and gloom. They are always planning something.
Every day is one step closer to them completing whatever
Revenge they are seeking. And
Something telling me they are close.


Or maybe, I am overthinking
For that's always a possibility. But,


That is enough thinking.
Enough letting them crowd my mindscape.
Yes. I have a
Very long workday
Ahead of me. So, I have
To throw this all away. Get ready."


Five days have passed since the chimera's phantom thief duties had come to a sudden halt and the undersea gazelle discovery had been made. Everything almost immediately changing course, a repeat location had graced the hyena's eardrums. Told to go return to Chenyu Vale to record data, the odd job took northern Liyue by a carp storm.


Solving puzzles and researching phenomenon, the days had a wave of mystery to them. But, things had begun to take an unfortunate turn as seventy-two hours marched onward. Multiple children witnessing a parting within the southern portions of the vale, the third and final day of the investigations came to end bearing bitter fruit.


Two day vacation coming out of nowhere on the fourth day, the soldier took a moment to resume his one member search party. But such had only ended in failure. Not a single lead found, and very important Liyue businesswoman informing him he had not seen his sister, the one member search party had been put on pause once more.


Final day off spent with the panda chimera, the soldier had been made aware of a new game. Card battles taking place, and fashion walk followed soon after, the hyena had met the panda's entire family with bitter results. Vacation coming to an end, the days had readied to reverse themselves back to normalcy.


Today, everything would reverse back to being chaotic.


Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his fading human mind. But, the soldier knew he had to let it go. Dreams were nothing more than a product of the imagination. Lifting himself upward from the cold, hard covers, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the soldier put on his uniform, the chimera could not help but think. The abyssal gazelles had been awfully absent lately. He had almost forgotten they had existed entirely. Had they given up? Were things about to return to normal? But, the early adult rapidly shook his head. These moments of peace were just a quick calm before the storm.


Taking a deep breath, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, a wave of calmness flowed through him. But, the soldier soon made unreturnable eye contact towards the rest of his prized possessions. Was turning his jewelry and accessories into weapons what he truly wanted? Rational brain on, at the moment, a wave of regret flowed through him. He never wanted this. But, the hyena placed his two index fingers into a cross shape. It was too late, the deed had already been done. Reversal was impossible.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier gazed at the Geo Delusion lying about. The sinister orb, should he finally make use of it? But, the hyena pushed the object away. He should not. Now was not the time to make use of such a thing. He was far from ready.


Heelless shoes on, the chimera stared at the steel walls as he devoured his rations. Hase, why doesn't she want to be found? Had she grown to dislike him over the years in her absence? But, the hyena shook his head. That couldn't have possibly been the case. Even if she did not wish to be located, he would still try again on his next day off. Final bite of his flavorless gruel done and dealt with, the chimera took a deep breath.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp onward with a fervor, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be investigating strange domains that have appeared throughout Liyue." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "Get information about where they might be located, and save some room for Lord Tartaglia. He wishes to see you fight again."


Siorc let out a groan at the information sent his way. Not the eleventh harbinger, why did the Agent have to bring him up? He wanted to watch him battle? He does not wish to have him be a witness to anything, whatsoever. This had to have been some sort of setup, for sure. No thank you, he was good. He was closed for renovation.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Do not concern yourself over the Eleventh. It is highly unlikely he will show up."


The soldier flinched as the agent said the eleventh out in the open. If he wasn't going to show up anyway, why mention him in the first place? Shrugging, he turned towards the agent once more. Arm out in front of him, the hyena waited for gripping prison to take him away like it always did.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Eleventh watching him or not, he knew he had to perform to the best of his ability.


"Good, let's go soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, he gripped the limb into a squeeze tight enough to bruise. "Do not waste time asking any unimportant Liyue citizen about the domain's locations." Wave of nervousness flowing through him as the escort towards Liyue began, the chimera stared off into space.


Right. Don't ask generic nobodies.


***


"Maybe I saw something
I shouldn't have.
Going out of Mingyun Village today with Linggui, we both might
Have seen something
That I don't believe we were supposed to


Have been a witness to.
A person in some hood was causing
Various amount of troubles
Everywhere within my line of


Sight. Warping something. I'm getting an
Eerie feeling. But, I try to not
Eye them. Maybe they're just some witch in training? Maybe
Not. Linggui


Soon proceeds to ask, 'Watcha lookin' at, Fèng?'
'Oh. Nothing
Much, really, just that little
Eerie fella over there.'
That's when
He proceeds to look over and shrugs at
It. 'Probably just a witch in trainin'.
Nothing ya gotta worry yerself over, Fèng.'
Guess he's right.


I don't know why I am


Staring. They're probably just some witch,
Hexenzirkel, maybe?
Oh, not like I'd know, I have never encountered a witch. I
Utter no more, and we get ready to
Leave this place behind. I
Doubt it's anything to worry about.


Not right now, anyway.
Okay. My mind is clear,
That's more than enough thinking.


Hexenzirkel or not, I
Aught to look away. Unless they're some
Villain or something, I will avert my
Eyes for now. "


Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the teleport waypoint, an annoying reminder had come the soldier's way. Agent telling him once again to not ask generic nobodies on the street about the domains, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. Did he really need to be reminded of this again? He knew already. Why was he reminding him again?


Agent soon exiting the area towards the bank, the chimera stared off into space. Where in the world was he supposed to begin with asking someone where the domains had been? He could hardly think of anyone within eye distance that had not been a generic nobody to inquire.


Knowing he had no choice but to find someone to ask, the soldier pressed onward. Perhaps, just maybe, someone without the same face as everyone else would appear somewhere within the main city streets? He supposed it was worth a shot. Cracking his knuckles, the hyena prepared himself to head upon the western streets.


Moving past the teahouse, not a single important person stood out to the soldier. Generic nobodies walking around around like a flash mob, whatever that was, the chimera avoided them like the plague. He was not wasting his time asking faceless no ones. That was not in the cards whatsoever.


Strutting past the elderly toy saleswoman in the corner, the soldier shook his head. She was not the one. Children begging their parents to buy them toys one after another, the soldier moved on. It had already been busy enough over here. It was best to not add more fuel to the fire, for sure.


Whiffing up an intense smell of roses, the early adult jumped ten steps back. Perfume lady in the corner mixing up beautiful perspirant brews, a wave of jealously flowed through him. How he wished he could afford such nice scents to spray upon himself. Scent only getting stronger, the hyena resisted the urge to buy the entire shop out.


Regaining focus, the soldier moved forward. Nothing of especial note sticking out to him, the hyena kept going. Generic nobodies blurring together, the early adult's will had begun to sway. Would he ever come across anyone that was not a nobody? He was starting to think he would not.


Figuring it was in his best interest to head over towards the boardwalk, the soldier moved through the wooden overhead. Turning his head towards the right and left, Surely, there had to have been someone in the area who had not been a of little importance, but luck and the archons had not been on his side.


Not a single person near the docks, the soldier let out a deep sigh. He should have known there wouldn't have been anyone here that could lead him to the domains in question. Pirates galore, and nothing ashore, the early adult turned around. He was wasting his time here, without a shadow of a doubt.


Reversing back towards the path he came, the early adult's will had begun to sway. Why was he wasting his time looking for someone when he could just try to seek the domains out himself? Just because the Agent had told him to do so? It was time to move on and start looking by himself.


But, as he had come to such decision, a non generic face had popped up out of nowhere. Qilin appearing beside the docks looking ready to nod off, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. What was she doing here? He could not help but feel something had been out of place. Tapping her shoulder, she soon flinched.


"Huh?" the Qilin asked in an astonished tone. She then calmed herself. "Oh, it's you. How can I help you?"


Inquiry coming his way, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could the qilin have known about the location of the domains? He supposed, asking her was worth a shot. Giving her a look in the eye, he placed his hands out in front of him. Deep breath taken, he prepared himself.


Words dungeon, labyrinth and domain spelled out with his fingers, the soldier drew a door upon the air. Looking the qilin in the eyes, the chimera could see a look of confusion on her face. Was she not understanding what he was trying to convey? He supposed such had to have been the case. Whispering the word domain quiet enough to just barely be heard, he kept looking forward.


"Oh, you're asking about a domain?" the qilin asked. "I believe a mysterious one appeared in Wuwang Hill?" She then let out a deep yawn.


Bowing a thank you, the soldier prepared to head for the wharf. There had been a domain in Wuwang Hill? He supposed it was in his best interest to head over to such area. But, he knew he had to ask around about whether or not there had been any others that had cropped up around Liyue. Resolute on his decision, the chimera prepared himself to head for the second most populated area within the city.


As the soldier moved towards the wharf, he could not help but wonder. Just how many domains could there have been out there that mysteriously appeared overnight? The chimera could not fathom the many possibilities, but he knew he was about to find out one way, or another.


Not a single other important person near the wharf, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Had there really been no one else around to ask? It was best to just make his way towards Bishui Plain and see for himself if there had been any other on his own. He had encountered one person who had known, such had been sufficient enough.


Descending the staircase, the hyena prepared himself to exit the harbor city. But, as he descended, a familiar face had stood out amongst the crowd of nobodies. Spotting the spiky haired guitarist in the corner without her instrument on her, a longshot added itself to the mix.


Walking towards her, the hyena could not help but ponder. Could she have any information about sudden domain appearances? She seemed like the type of person who would be in the know about these sorts of things. Excusing himself, eyes had soon been on him in the blink of an eye.


"Hey, there, purple," the guitarist greeted. "What's up?"


Overly familiar greeting coming his way, the early adult once again placed his hands out in front of him. Spelling out the words domain, labyrinth and dungeon with his fingers, he quietly whispered all the words under his breath quiet enough for a singular person to hear. Young woman looking as though she had a eureka moment, she soon put two and two together.


"A domain, you say?" the guitarist asked. "Yeah, I saw one at Qingce Village. Scared the livin' daylights outta me. Why do ya ask?"


Question coming his way, the early adult signed the words for a job on private display. But, he soon buried his face a smidgeon. Why was he telling this person that? But, he supposed he was thankful for her insight on where another domain had been. But, caution had soon hit the wind.


"I'd be careful if I were you, purple," the guitarist responded to his wordless language. "Somethin' 'bout that domain is a little fishy."


Heeding the guitarist's warning, the soldier prepared himself to exit the area. Something was fishy about it? Such was nothing he couldn't handle. Surely, it was hardly as bad as she thought it was. Dashing off towards the bridge, the chimera prepared himself for the worst dangers to come.


Harbor City quickly left behind, the caution switch flipped upward in the hyena's mind. These domains, could they have been dangerous? He supposed he would find out whether he liked it or not. Staying on the pathway in front of him, the chimera prepared himself for any monsters that could have been lying in wait.


Surprisingly quiet walk ahead of him, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of relief. Were there no Hilichurls out and about on the prowl today? Such was a relief to be had, for sure. Not having a weapon on him, battles would be hyena claw reliant, for certain.


Speeding up his walking speed, the hyena put a spring in his step. The faster he were to walk, the faster he would reach the ghostly hill of departed spirits. Dashing past the rock pond and upwards upon the ramp in the corner, the early adult had been filled with determination. He swore, as he thought such, a red pixelated heart appeared on his uniform.


Dashing off towards Guili Plains, the soldier attempted to make haste. He needed to make haste and get out of here before the dangers proposed within the domain were to come true. Could ghastly spirits have already made themselves at home within the dungeon? There was hardly any time to waste.


But, as he kept running through the plains, his head had soon collided with another. Rubbing his temple for a moment, the early adult looked upward. But, whom he had clashed with was a person to not be messed with. Yuheng rubbing her temples, as well, sharp eyes of indignance had been thrown his way.


"Watch where you're going!" the yuheng exclaimed in an irritated tone.


Heavy wave of irritation evident in her voice, the early adult bowed multiple apologies one after another. Right. Watch where he was going. He should have been more careful. Arms crossed around her waist, a heavy wave of suspicious had soon rode the air. Feeling such, the hyena shook like a leaf. Was she about to tell him to get out of here?


"What are you up to, Fatui?" the yuheng asked, suspicious evident in her voice.


Side eyes glued to him, the early adult flinched. Did she think he was up to no good? He supposed he did not blame her for thinking such a thing. He was a member of the Fatui. He knew most citizens and important figures within Liyue would automatically assume he was a reason for suspicion.


Giving the yuheng a glance, he could not help but wonder. Would she have any information about any sudden domain appearances? He supposed it was worth a shot asking her. But, he knew, even if were to ask, there was no way she would answer him without being irritated. Taking a deep breath, he prepared himself.


"I am searching for suspicious domains, ma'am," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. He then dropped down the forbidden inquiry. "Are you aware of any, miss?"


Look of indignation on her face once again, the soldier's heart skipped a beat. Had he struck a nerve? His question had to have hit quite a few of them, for sure. He didn't know why, but she had a look on her face as if she wanted to scream to not waste her time. He would need to apologize right away, if such were the case.


"And, why should I tell you?" the yuheng asked in a suspicious tone.


Bowing an apology once again, the soldier moved out of her way. Right, she didn't owe him any sort of answer. No one did. Yuheng leaving the area the early adult continued to head north. If there were any other domains in the area, he would have to seek them out himself. Wasting the time of the wrong person would put him in a world of pain.


Getting himself back on track, the soldier had begun to head northward. Knowing Wuwang Hill had been northwest of Stone Gate, he had a long walk ahead of him. But, as he dragged himself through Wangshu Inn, multiple questions raced through his head all at once, running laps inside him.


As the chimera moved walked through the inn walkway, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just what had other Fatui done in Liyue to have made them such a despised group of people? Had there been a deep history of aggression he had been unware of? Exiting the inn, the thoughts drowned him further as Dihua Marsh approached.


Thoughts clustering inside him, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed, whatever other Fatui had done, he would have to accept such as fate. He was a part of this organization against his will, any hostility or feeling of abhorring towards him were valid. Throwing such thoughts away, the early adult pushed through the marsh.


Jumping across the broken bridge, the hyena tried his best to not slip. Not spotting a single monster along the way, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Where in the world were all the slimes and other monsters? He couldn't help but feel a heavy wave of unease over the heavy amount of emptiness throughout the area. Something wasn't right here, for sure.


Leaving the marsh behind, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Could the multiple monsters in the area have thrown themselves into the sudden domains that had appeared throughout the area? He supposed that was something he should have been on the lookout for. Anything was possible in the world of Teyvat.


Pushing through Stone Gate, a heavy eerie feeling latched onto the chimera like a tub of paste. He did not know why, but there was a sense of malice in the air. Why was it whenever he passed by this area there was a foreboding sense of doom? But, the early adult attempted to shake such off. Surely, it was nothing.


Overwhelming sense of doom eating him alive, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left as he pushed on through the border between Liyue and Mondstadt. The domain, it had to have been close to here, for sure. There was no way it couldn't have been.


Foreboding doom continuing to loom over him, the early adult prepared himself for whatever was about to await him. What would await him within the ghostly world? If spirits were inside the dungeon, he knew fighting them firsthand would be outright impossible. He would need a soup thermos to trap them in, or something. But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. There was no such thing. What was he even thinking? He needed to get himself out of fantasy land.


Bamboo trees looking a little brown today, the early adult jumped four steps back, the aura had it been doing something to the nature nearby? What an awful state of affairs, if true. Keeping a note about possible damages, the early adult ran upon the northern path. Wuwang Hill was close, just a little father.


Soon in front of a dark blue door in front of the entrance of Wuwang Hill, the early adult could feel his heart race a kilometer a minute. No, not one of these, anything but a random subspace domain out in the open. Would he be given a delusion that would eat his mind up for dinner again? No way. He's not going in. It's time to turn back.


But, the early adult performed his breathing exercises. There was no way he could turn back now. He had a job to do. Strange greatsword dropping down from the door, the early adult picked it up. Claymore with a skull like design on the covering, his heartbeat sped up a smidgeon he was getting a bad feeling about this.


Ascending the staircase, the early adult prepared himself. What was about to await him inside this domain? Stepping through the blue door, the chimera prepared himself. Blinding light soon engulfing him, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Opening them once again, many surprises awaited him.


Finding himself in a large brown wooden floored dungeon that looked massive enough to suck everything into a black hole the chimera backed four steps away. What in the world in the world was this place he had just been transported to? He would be stuck here for days, for sure if luck had not been on his side.


Spotting multiple rooms up ahead that looked like they had puzzles to solve, the chimera had begun walking. He knew, going forward, he would need to be careful, or he would get lost within the corridors. Reaching the first room, the first oddity appeared in front of him.


Spotting a group of festival drums in the center of the first corridor, the chimera tilted his head. What were these doing here? Spotting a button beside one of them, the soldier clicked it downward. Message on the ceiling informing him to play the drums according to the score, the soldier blinked. He had to do what now? He's never played an instrument in his life.


Paper falling from the ceiling with mysterious symbols he couldn't read, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Chickens and eggs all over the leaflet, the early adult's mouth dropped open. What kind of musical score was this? He knew he wasn't musically inclined, but there was no way this was readable to anyone.


Drum glowing, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. What was he supposed to do here? How was he supposed to play a chicken on a drum? Hearing a doom toll, lightning tickled his uniform. Zaps continuing to tickle him, he let out a scream. Failure would lead to an electrifying conclusion.


Staring at the score once more, further peculiarities took him for a ride. Second line of the score showing chickens with eggs over their heads, the hyena rubbed his hands over the sides of his head. What in the world did any of this mean? Whoever made this puzzle was definitely eating nails for breakfast.


Zapped aplenty for minutes on end, the early adult's hair stuck up. These symbols, what could they have possibly meant? How was he supposed to figure out gibberish? Attempting to figure out the puzzle multiple times with no success, the young soldier had become an electro magnet.


Message on his wrist reading that he had failed the puzzle too many times, the answers shall be revealed, the soldier jumped fifteen steps back. Was there an archon of messing around? He knew there wasn't, but he sure felt like there had been at the moment. Did this god of games live under a bridge and have horns, too? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was no time for frustration, he had to solve the puzzle now.


Chicken underneath printed with the word plunge in Mondstadt writing, the soldier studied the letters underneath the eggs. Spotting the word skill underneath, the chimera tilted his head. Skill? What kind of skill? Rest of the words reading windglider, plunge, charge, the hyena shrugged. He supposed he would have to figure it out as he attempted.


Pressing the button once more, a wind current soon appeared out of nowhere. Leaping upward, the soldier grabbed the skull faced claymore, plunging downward, he swore he could hear a ding ping off the distance. Drums glowing again, the chimera could not help but wonder. Would throwing his flower friend do something? Tossing down his windwheel aster friend, another ding pinged throughout the room.


Air current coming back with a vengeance, the early adult jumped upward, windglider soon deployed, he plunged downward, charging his claymore into the drum for final measure, the words challenge complete appeared on the ceiling. Sweat decorating his brow, the soldier moved onto the next room.


Large room with tiles in it everywhere, the chimera stared off into space. What was he supposed to do this time? Pressing a button, a message appeared on his wrist. Instructions telling him to light up the tiles a wave of relief flowed through him. Light up tiles? That sounded simple enough.


But, as he lit the tiles up, lighting struck from up above. Falling to his knees, the early adult let out a growl. He had done what the instructions said, didn't he? Running through the tiles again, another bolt had been struck down from the heavens. Egg boiling inside him, he let out a second grunt. What in the world was he doing wrong here?


Attempting to light up the tiles in various different ways, multiple shocks of electricity had been descended upon him one after another. Turning himself around, the early adult attempted one last resort amongst them all. Dashing across the tiles backwards, a ding soon pinged across the room.


Walking off towards the next room, the early adult could not help but ponder. Just what was with this domain? Everything had been so peculiar. But, what awaited him in the next room had been confusion wrapped up in a present box for everyone to see. Corridor full of Millelith inside, something had been quite off.


Millelith in uniforms that looked like they had to have been from various centuries before, the chimera placed his spooky claymore in front of him. Soldiers coming towards him, archaic spears the battle of old vs new kicked into overdrive for an audience of no one to see.


Blade and spear fight going on for minutes on end, the army had soon depleted itself of its resources. Group of enemies fading into nothing after about fifty hits between them, multiple questions dashed through him like a bird about to take off to fly. What had just happened? Not single thing had made any sense whatsoever.


Another batch of Millelith in archaic uniforms decimated in the next room over, the hyena stared off into space. Had he been fighting ghosts from eras long gone? He knew such could have been a possibility at hand. He had still been in Wuwang Hill at the moment, dungeon or not. But, as he approached the next room, he could hear a voice call out to him.


"Follow me!" a voice shouted.


Ball of light in the center of the corridor, the early adult's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Follow what, exactly? He had no idea. Chasing the ball, into the next room, screams imploring him to continuing following it looped on repeat. Orb bouncing through the third area, the early adult jumped as well.


Ball continuing to hop higher, the soldier attempted with all his might to leap as high as it had. Did he need to raise his hands up to the sky, as well? But the ball of light soon shouted at him again. Screams of demands to not jump, just run, the chimera's red bird movements stopped in their tracks one after another.


Ball of light soon stopping, a large, fat dragon soon took its place. Gazing at it, the chimera stared off into space. This domain was full of surprises. Creature folding its arms across its waste, the early adult repeated such gesture. But, a look of irritation had grown on the creature's face.


"Purple, stop copying me!" the dragon exclaimed.


Winged reptile speaking to him, the hyena jumped six steps back. This dragon, was it talking to him? He had to be dreaming right now. But, he knew that wasn't the case for any reason, at all whatsoever. He was awake right now. Living, breathing. Everything right in front of him was reality, for sure. Clapping his hands together, the chimera bowed an apology.


"Aaaaaaaaanyway, purple, it's time to play a game!" the dragon shouted, clapping its talons together. "You're going to be quizzed! Any question you get right, your stats will be boosted!" It then placed its smallest talons into a cross position. "But, any you get wrong, I'm taking something from you!"


Hearing such, Siorc scratched his head. What in the world were stats? This dragon, what was it talking about? He had never heard of such a word in his entire life. Shaking his head, the word left his mind. It didn't mean anything; it did not matter. But, as he kept on thinking, words brought him back to reality?


"Are you ready, purple?" the dragon called out.


Words sending him up a waterfall, the chimera flinched. It was time to play already? Slapping his cheeks, the chimera nodded. Whatever this game was, he had to do his best to get every single question right, or something would be taken from him. Dragon grabbing a microphone out of thin air, the game let itself begin.


"Alrighty then! First question!" the dragon announced. "Who is the director of the funeral parlor!?"


Question coming his way, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What kind of question was that? Sighing, he turned towards the reptilian winged creature. This had to have been a trick question. Almost everyone who had visited Liyue for an extended period of time knew this. Preparing himself, he let the name be known to absolutely no one.


"-- ---?" the hyena responded, voice barely audible.


"That's correct!" the dragon exclaimed. "Buuuuuuuuuuut, try to speak up next time, purple!" As it said such a spotlight had plopped over him. "Congratulations on getting the first question right!"


Feeling a sudden increase in strength, the chimera tilted his head. Where did this sudden boost come from? Second question asking him where would one go to to consult someone about buying a coffin, the early adult rolled his eyes to the ceiling. This quiz couldn't be made any easier if they tried.


Getting three questions right and two questions wrong afterwards, the final round of the quiz had soon took off. Dragon asking what are the elemental dragons around Liyue called, the early adult paused for a moment. What were they called again? Fuzz swam through his memory the early adult gave an answer he knew was far from being correct.


Dragon taking something unknown from him, the quiz had reached its climactic ending. Reptilian creature dropping itself into a hole, the early adult shrugged. Was the game over? If such were the case, it was time to move onwards towards the next rooms, for the time being.


Racing through multiple rooms with enemies aplenty, the hyena could not help but notice the sudden increase in strength flowing through him. Had the dragons boosted his combat capabilities? Whatever that word stat meant, it must have gone up a considerable amount, for the time being.


Multiple enemies slain one after another, the early adult let out a deep huff. Barely any rooms left, the young soldier prepared to stage his exit. It was all almost over, he could exit this wild house of wonders. But, as he reached the next corridor, a draconic visitor waited for him once more.


"Welcome to the second round of you quiz, Mauvelous!" a pink dragon shouted. "Get these questions right, your stats get boosted, get them wrong, and they get lowered! Let's go! One, two!"


Dragon initiating a count, the early adult placed his hand upward. They were doing a quiz right here, right now? This was moving too fast. He had only just arrived into this room. But, the dragon kept on counting. Counter reaching three, a spotlight had soon shone over the hyena.


"Question one!" the pink dragon exclaimed. "Why is it called the Skyrider Greatsword?"


Question coming his way, the early adult's heart skipped more than three beats. Why was it called the Skyrider Greatsword? How was he supposed to know? He had never cared enough to learn the history behind weapons. What did he look like, the Sword Encyclopedia, Your Friendly Guide to Sword Names? He was not. Far from it.


Shrugging, the early adult abstained from answering such question. But, as he had done such, the spotlight from up above him had soon glowed a deep red. Seeing such, the chimera's knees buckled. What stat was about to be lowered? Whatever a stat was, he had no idea.


"Sorry, shrug is not the correct answer!" the pink dragon announced. "Attack lowered by two hundred!"


Feeling a sudden drain in his strength, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. These dragons, were they some sort of gods? But, before he could think further about such, the next question had come his way. Inquiry about where the Messenger got its name, the early adult blanked out. How was he supposed to know something like that?


Every single question answered incorrectly, multiple waves of disappointment had come his way. Reptilian being dropping into a hole, the early adult moved onward to the next corridor. Nothing but a candle on the ground with a sign below it stating walk by candlelight, the early adult let out a sigh. Time for another test of patience.


Pressing onward through five rooms with the candle, the soldier had reached the final room of note. Three dragon seating themselves in chairs, the chimera gazed at them. What did they want from him this time? Creatures slapping their claws together, he held back the urge to groan. What were they about to do?


"You've reached the end, Mauvelous!" the pink dragon exclaimed. "It's time to test your skills!" As it said such, its eyes glowed.


Laser beams coming his way, the early adult jumped ten steps backs. They were doing what now? Testing his skills? What in the world was this domain? Unsheathing the claymore from behind him, the early adult prepared himself. Dragon versus hyena? Bring it on. He had defenses for days. But, the fight was far from what he expected.


"Purple, sword down, sword down!" the dragon exclaimed. "It's time for the final quiz!"


Putting the blade down, the hyena let out a sigh. Another quiz? Question coming his way, the hyena tossed back answers one after another. Multiple inquires about the names of flowers, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Something was fishy here. But, the quiz kept on going.


Question about what violetgrass could be used for, the early adult stared off into space. Violetgrass was a plant that could be crushed up and turned into medicine, wasn't it? Submitting such answer, further inquires had come his way one after another. Final question soon reached, the dragon soon summoned a door.


Exit in front of him, the chimera jumped through. Back in Wuwang Hill as if nothing happened, the soldier rubbed his eyes. What had he just experienced? The chimera had absolutely no idea. But, he knew he had no time to think. He had to head for the next on in Qingce Village right away.


Reaching Qingce Village after about an hour of walking, a blue portal door had awaited him once again. No elderly villagers anywhere within sight, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. There was no one around to stumble in here. A miracle to be had, for sure.


Taking a deep breath, the hyena readied himself for the next unknown destination. Blinding light overtaking him, the early adult closed his eyes. But, what awaited him upon opening them was a wonderland of many questions. Large factory with spinning gears everywhere, the chimera's eyes turned to goop. Where in the world was he, Siorc Sandiego? But, he shook his head. No more thinking. It was time to get moving.


Gears underneath his feet rotating the chimera spun around and around counterclockwise. Whatever that direction meant, he had never heard of a clock in his life. Soon tossed onto a conveyer belt, a message rained down from the sky at lightning speed. Trying to read them, the early adult pushed up his lenses.


"Catch the apples within the time limit," the message said.


Fruits raining down from the sky, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Catch what now? Apples falling towards him rapidly, the chimera grabbed the fruits one after another as if he were a performer in a circus. Strange black automated floor moving forward as he did such, multiple fell onto the ground.


Timer ticking past the thirty second mark, the soldier kept the rounds of collecting going. Final forbidden fruit of eden collected, the challenge had soon been completed. Such, however had only been the beginning. Words falling from the sky, the early adult read the next set of instructions carefully.


"Destroy the targets with the apples in one-hundred seconds," the words floating around said.


Seeing such, targets dropped down from the ceiling one after another. Seeing such, the early adult leaped ten steps back. What in the world was this domain? It was stranger than the last, for sure. Easily spoilable fruit in his hands, the hyena whirred up the pitch for the class to no one to see.


Fruit spinning like a ball on the playing field, the stick plopped onto the target at lightning speed. Floor underneath him speeding up, the hyena tried to keep his balance. Any second now, and he would fall off and land in the abyss. Second apple in the palm of his hands it had been lunged across the room.


Challenge reaching its conclusion, the chimera huffed and puffed up a storm. Moving floor tossing him over to the next corridor, the soldier dashed towards the next room. Rabbit waiting for him screaming it was late, so late for a very important date, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Another rabbit? This region's critter population had certainly grown aplenty in the past month.


Cookies dropping on the floor reading follow them, the hyena could hardly believe what he was reading. Follow the white rabbit running? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Sugary garbage continuing to plop down on the floor demanding he chase the creature, the chimera let out an exasperated sigh. He supposed he had no choice but to do so.


Rabbit continuing to repeat it was late for a date, the early adult covered his ears. How many times was this creature going to repeat that? He gets it. They're not on time for something. Cookies demanding he continue to follow, the hyena kept on running. Rooms getting smaller and smaller, the next room had soon been upon him.


Critter hopping away, the soldier shrugged. Had it finally reached its date? Good luck with its romantic number with the floor. But, the early adult threw such snide remarks away. Moving along, the hyena kept moving forward through the geared up factory.


But, nothing happened for rooms on end. Next six rooms empty as a blank slate, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. What was the point of having so many rooms with nothing in them? Whoever made this domain had to have given up halfway through. If such were the case, what a boring state of affairs.


Such emptiness, however, had come to a screeching halt. Rabbit popping out from the ground once again, it repeated the same phrase from before. It was late, for a very important date. Hearing such again, the soldier held back the urge to scream. He knew already. Hadn't this creature said that enough already?


Hole forming from underneath him, the chimera could feel his body drop downward. World of darkness soon engulfing him, the early adult swore he could feel his clothes grow hot, for a moment. Closing his eyes, the wind took him for a ride for minutes on end. Buttocks soon hitting the ground, he opened his eyes.


Finding himself in a large forest, the early adult looked at himself downward. Bright blue dress with a white apron over it, the hyena blinked of bewilderment What was this, Wonderland? He hadn't a clue, but he supposed such could have been the case. Searching the ground for his winter jacket, he turned his head towards the right and left. Where did his uniform go? Blinding spotlight soon over him, the white rabbit had soon been on its hind legs.


"Falling through the rabbit hole, Princess Aster found themselves lost in the forest!" the rabbit exclaimed. "Will they find the door to the exit?"


Hearing the word princess used on him, the early adult's cheeks grew red. Princess Aster, princess, princess, princess. Hands over his cheeks, he tried with all his might to giggle. Princess, what a lovely word, it had a nice sound to it. If he had a ring, he'd put one on it.


Snapping himself out of it, the princess moved forward. What was he doing, letting himself get distracted by a word? This was nothing more than a story. Surely, if he were to play through it, he would be able to get out of this domain. Cracking his knuckles, the Chronicles of Princess Aster soon begun.


"Stepping through the forest, Princess Aster walked on sharp eggshells!" the rabbit announced. "Will our hero be able to overcome such peril?"


Eggshells dropping down on the ground, the princess yelped. He had to do what now? This was a weird story, for certain. Raising onto the tip of his toes, the sound of multiple shells cracking simulated through the area. Yolks spilling out on the grass, the hyena held back the urge to gag. This was wonderland, alright.


Shelly walk soon coming to an end, the chimera could see a cat grinning up in a tree with a bright purple tail. Feline giving him a suspicious smile, a pitch black cookie had soon been dropped into his hands. Frosting reading out to eat it, the princess tilted his head. What was this?


Rabbit announcer asking the audience of no one if Princess Aster would eat the cookie gifted to them, the hyena stared at the sweet temptation of doom. Should he eat it? There was a lot fish in this little square bitable. But, he knew he was bound by the laws of the story. Biting into the object, a blinding light soon engulfed him.


Wings sprouting up on his back, a wind current had soon been behind the princess. Brought upward into the sky, the early adult could feel a wave of bewilderment. Wasn't he supposed to shrink down to the size of a mouse? Maybe he was remembering the story wrong. But, the next order of business had soon been upon him.


Multiple targets soon in front of him, apples had been thrown the chimera's way. Catching them, the rabbit had soon been upwards in the sky upon a soft cloud. Seeing such, the princess let out another sigh. Who in the world wrote this story that he was forced into playing out?


"Cookie giving them wings, the targets screamed, 'hit me, hit me!' Huh, what's this? They've been given apples!" the rabbit announced. "Can Princess Aster hit all the targets within the time limit?"


Timer ticking down, the early adult sighed. Another apple darts challenge? This would go by in the blink of an eye. Throwing all the apples onto the target well before the timer had reached zero, he had soon been dropped back downward onto the ground. Maze popping up out of nowhere, the creature gave one last announcement.


Rabbit screaming about a hedge maze, the early adult ran from corner to corner. Finding himself getting lost with every corner turned, sweat mounted on the hyena's brow. He did not know why, but every single twist he made, his energy felt like it was being traded away to an unseen being up above.


Reaching the end of the hedge maze after about hours of running, the door had soon been reached. Rabbit exclaiming Princess Aster has found the door to home, the hyena pushed himself through the exit. No more of this game of wacky hijinks. Blinding light engulfing him for what felt like the fifth time today, the early adult closed his eyes.


Back in Guili Plains as if nothing happened, the domain was nowhere to be seen. Peering downward, the soldier's uniform had been on him as if it had never left. Gazing up at the sky for a moment, the early adult's heart had begun to race. It had already been evening? When did that happen? He needed to return to Liyue Harbor right away.


Dashing through Bishui Plains, the soldier kept on sprinting. Just how long had he been in those two domains? Time was quite the fickle instrument of measurement. Running faster as the seconds raged onward, Guili Pains had been reached after ten minutes of speedy running.


Reaching Liyue Harbor after about ten minutes of sprinting, the chimera attempted to catch his breath. Agent standing behind a counter in the wharf as if he were doing business, the soldier walked towards him. Mask soon on him, he soon gave eye contact towards the faceless holes.


"What did you discover, soldier?" the Agent asked.


Writing down his findings in a notepad, the soldier passed the leaflet off to his subordinate. Confusion painting his mask, the early adult shook with a fervor. He was going to be told to take this seriously, for sure. But, such words never came. Notepad slammed shut, the mas had soon been upon him once again.


"Good work today," the Agent said, but there was a slight hint of hesitation in his voice as he said such. "Your job is not done yet. Find somewhere to sleep for tonight."


Orders coming his way to find somewhere to sleep, the chimera headed back towards the bridge. Reaching Wangshu Inn after about twenty minutes of walking, the early adult reserved a room for himself. Keys given, the chimera dragged himself off towards his accommodations.


Closing the inn door behind him, the early adult let out a yawn. Weaponized hairpins and earrings soon removed, the young soldier threw himself into the uncomfortable bed. World of sleep ready to take him away, the early adult closed his eyes. Land of tormenting dreams dragging him down, one final question wrapped vines around him.


What are these strange domains?


***


"Where are these domains coming from?
How suspicious and
Ominous they are. I have no clue anymore.


Oh, these adventures are
Rather peculiar.


Who, or what made these?
How or when did they
Appear? I don't know.
The abyssal gazelles have been absent for


More than six days now.
As such, I cannot blame them.
Did they do this?
Even I don't


Think they would make something like this.
How could they?
Each of the two domains I ventured through
Something was different about them, but neither of them
Ever gave me a sense of


Dooming energy.
Of course, this could just all be a hoax,
Maybe this is just
A strange event
I am being told to test.
No, perhaps not. To be honest, I don't know.
So, I will continue the investigation for now."


Waking up the next morning, the soldier reached for his glasses. What kind of nautical nonsense would await him today? Exiting his temporary quarters for the moment, the chimera readied to head back towards Liyue Harbor. But, the second he had returned toward the city streets, faces he did not wish to see again had stood in his way.


Red, pink and silver haired panda trio gazing at him as if he was a two headed dragon, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What did these three want from him? If he was in the way, he'd gladly move off to the side. But, the pink haired panda had soon pointed a finger at him.


"It's that guy in the dress from the other day!" Qiulong exclaimed pointing.


Hearing such, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. This panda in pink, did she have to scream that out for every single person to hear? How immature of her. But, the early adult kept such thoughts to himself. Angry panda next to her grabbing her elbow, she soon let her shouts be heard, as well.


"Ugh! You stopped walking because of that? Who cares about him!" Shenlong shouted. "Qiulong, Jiaolong, let's go! We're late to our business meeting at Xinyue Kiosk!" But, a set of words had come her way.


"Ah, you two go without me. I'm not coming," Jiaolong responded.


"Huh?" Both Shenlong and Qiulong said in unison.


"I have some prior engagements to attend to," Jiaolong responded to their collective question.


"Hmph, whatever, Jiaolong! Sounds like an excuse to me!" Shenlong shouted in an irritated tone. She then turned towards her sister. "Let's go, Qiulong!"


Two of the three pandas soon gone, the early adult held back the urge to sigh as the tall panda turned towards him. What did this chimera want from him? Whatever it was, he had absolutely no interest. He could feel a sour taste in his mouth as the eyes kept themselves glued to him.


"Why, hello there. Apologies, we might have gotten off on the wrong foot the other day," Jiaolong said, introducing himself. "I am Jiaolong, herbalist at Bubu Pharmacy. I would again like to extend my sincerest apologies for our prior meeting. Yínlóng's inaction can be quite troublesome sometimes."


Apology coming his way, the early adult blink. Why was this man apologizing to him? But, he supposed he would accept it. He had barely known this chimera. It was best to get on the correct footing with him. Making enemies was not in the cards whatsoever, for any reason. But, the words that had been thrown his next blindsided him.


"My cousin talks about you quite a lot. I can get behind that," Jiaolong said, hand on his chin. "You're kind of cute, actually."


Hearing such, the soldier had become red as a tomato. This man, did he just call him cute? Was he flirting with him? Consider himself flirted with, because it was working. Words ringing in his ears, he placed his hands on his cheek. He misheard him, right? Surely, he had to have.


Flustered look on Yínlóng's friend's face, Jiaolong let out a chuckle. He was this easily flustered. How adorable. But, maybe he should let him now he was simple playing around. It would have been such a shame if first impressions were soured from this moment.


"Oh, my! You should see the look on your face!" Jiaolong laughed. "I am merely teasing you." His hand moved up and down as he spoke. "In any case, you are exploring domains, no? Would it be alright if I come with you? My boss would like for me to investigate them."


Question coming his way, the soldier simply nodded. The taller panda chimera was investigating these domains, too? He supposed he could allow him to join for the time being. Surely, his mission would not overlap with his. Smile soon growing from ear to ear, the conversation continued.


"Excellent. Let's work hard together," Jiaolong responded. "Boss has informed me the first one is in Dunyu Ruins. I'll be your guide."


Jiaolong leading the way, the soldier followed behind him. Heading through the path in the western most point of the harbor, the soldier's stared at the tall panda's backside. He had been an herbalist? Maybe he wasn't so bad after all. The thorns were dying one after another.


Moving through Mt. Tianheng, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could have been going on in Dunyu Ruins? Whatever domain was about to await him, he knew a series of anything could be awaiting him. Westward path winding every once and awhile, the early adult attempted to keep his attention forward.


Feeling a sense of heavy darkness in the air the closer Dunyu Ruins had been, the soldier's heart skipped four beats. What was this sudden doom in the air? Something terrible would await him any second now, guaranteed. He knew he would need to proceed with utmost caution going forward.


Reaching the area of interest after about an hour of walking, the taller panda chimera soon turned around. Eyes on him, the soldier returned eye contact. What did he want to say this time? He was not ready for another flirt pie so early in the afternoon. But, the crumpet soon crumbled.


"If you, at any point injure yourself, please let me know," Jiaolong said in a serious tone. "I make medicines at my job all the time." He rose his index finger upward as he said such. "However, I am not yet a doctor, so I can only provide you a basic level of care."


Nodding, the early adult kept such fact in his mind. Was the taller panda chimera studying to be a doctor? But, the chimera quickly flicked such thought away. Such was hardly any business of his. Jiaolong stepping into the domain first, the soldier followed shortly after.


Peculiar brown wooden floored room waiting for the taller panda chimera and he, a paper doll had been floating out in the open in the shape of a tiny person. Studying the room for a moment longer, the early adult turned his head towards the left. Mat on the floor with Inazuman writing, the early adult scratched his head. Where had the entrance taken him to. Jiaolong's hand soon on his chin, as well, he had soon added his own comment to the mix.


"Oh, dear, how very strange," Jiaolong said, finger on his chin. "It would appear this domain is ruled over by a Shikigami."


"A Shikigami?" the paper doll asked, confused tone of voice. "Is that what you humans call me?"


"Ah, no, I am not a human, I am a panda," Jiaolong responded shaking his head. "You would be the guide of this place, no? We are counting on you."


Paper doll creature leading the way, a large maze with multiple dead ends had begun to stretch out from side to side with multiple ends twisting from one end to the other. Seeing such, the soldier's knees buckled. What kind of place was this? This world was a labyrinth with many echoing hallways.


Jiaolong asking the paper doll creature if there were any herbs in this dungeon, the soldier could hear them say there had been some at the end. Hearing such, the soldier attempted to turn around. He would leave the panda to his own thing. But, a scream had come his way almost immediately.


Guide informing him there was no other way to go, the soldier stayed put. If there was no other way to go, he supposed he did not have a choice in the matter. Jiaolong stepping in the thick maze of doom first, the chimera stared at the so called Shikigami. He did not know why, but the paper doll felt as though it had a living, breathing soul in it.


Pushing through the with all his might, the sound of monsters roaring from every dead end echoed in the soldier's ear. Mightachurls and Samachurls beating their hands upon their chests one after another, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Human hand becoming hyena claws, he was ready for action.


But, such course of action never came, Jiaolong removing a bow from his side pocket, and arrow had soon been placed on the string. Shot held for about five seconds, the hyena closed his eyes as the tip glowed a fiery orange. Jiaolong had been bestowed a pyro vision, how terrifying. He needed to look away.


Enemies from afar defeated, the party of two-and-a-half soon continued onward. Traps laid out everywhere that looked like they would trigger if stepped on, the early adult hopped over them. He was not falling for that one again, nope. Not this time. Taller panda chimera leaping over it, as well, the two kept moving forward.


Multiple traps jumped over one after another, the maze had only continued to get stranger the further in. Walls beginning to warp, the early adult's eyes had become jelly. Was it just him, or had the air begun to get thinner the further within the maze he were to get? But, the hyena tried to keep his focus forward.


Multiple other traps waiting down upon the floor beneath, the soldier jumped towards the right and left. Why had there been so many? Whoever had made this domain was trying their best to win the record for most traps in any place imaginable. Throwing any distractions thought away, the curves continued.


Jiaolong's fiery arrows of doom demolishing any other monsters within, the maze's end soon loomed. Preparing himself for the next areas further up ahead, the chimera cracked his hyena knuckles. What else could be lying within this labyrinth? He supposed he would soon find out.


Final stretch of the maze cruised through, the paper doll creature had continued to lead the way, for the time being. Multiple empty rooms with nothing but forced upcurrent tiles, the hyena had been blown away. Plunging back downward upon the ground, the early adult held back the urge to scream. Who in the world designed this place? It was far too random.


Final room reached after another maze had been cruised through, the taller panda chimera had picked the leaves from ground below him. But, as he had prepared to do so, a monster emerged from the spot where the spoils had been found. Disappointment decorating Jiaolong's face his bow had soon been deployed.


"A mere Whopperflower," Jiaolong said, placing an arrow upon his string. "Not to worry, I will take care of this."


Flower monsters decimated in a matter of moments, the taller panda chimera soon pocketed the herbs beneath him. Labyrinth exit soon located, the duo watched as the door crumbled into dust upon the wind. Seeing such, a wave of disappointment flowed through him. That was all there was, a maze? What use would information be to anyone? But, as his thoughts wandered, a voice took him out of his mind dungeon.


"There is another one of these domains in Lingju Pass," Jiaolong said. "If it is alright with you, I'll guide you to it."


Giving the panda a nod, the hunt for the next labyrinth was on, moving onwards towards the west, the soldier could not help but wonder. What did Jiaolong need herbs for from an unknown place anyway? Couldn't they have had poisons in them that could bring harm over a cure?


Staring at the panda man's pockets, his thoughts continued to wander. The herbs, if they carried toxins, wouldn't his boss be cross with him? But, the chimera threw such thoughts off a bridge. Why was he assuming the worst? Surely, the panda chimera knew what he was doing.


Reaching the next domain before he could even blink, the chimera flinched. He had reached Lingju Pass already? Just how close had these two locations been to one another? Taller panda stepping in first, the soldier followed soon after. Although, what awaited inside an even stranger place than before.


Large labyrinth with nothing but rocky corridors everywhere, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Just what was this place he had found himself in his time? He could sense a chaotic feeling deep within. Jiaolong telling him to stay close, or he'll get lost, the duo moved forward.


Floor covered up entirely with traps, the early adult jumped towards the right and left with every step. Daggers coming out of the walls, as well, the soldier made a run for it. What was this place, some sort of temple with treasure guarded highly with traps? Ridiculous. Whoever had made this labyrinth watched too many garbage Fontaine films.


Pushing on through every trap thrown at him, the early adult huffed and puffed. Traps beginning to blend together with every step, something of particular note had soon caught the chimera's immediate attention. Strange elemental totems everywhere, the hyena's body shook with a fervor. There were mostly pyro ones here. He was done, toast, dinner.


Taller panda chimera guiding him towards the opposite direction, the totems had soon been out of sight, out of mind. Hearing the words Theater Mechanicus, the soldier tilted his head upward. This domain, had it been like that board game? How unusual. Whoever had made this place had to have been a sucker for games.


Traps soon avoided, broken bridges stretched through the area for kilometers. Told to watch his step, the taller panda chimera took a leap of faith without any wind glider present. Seeing such, the early adult adjusted his glasses. Had he really just witnessed that? Surely, he had to have a set of plastic wings somewhere.


Taking a deep breath, the early adult leapt over the broken bridge in tandem. Barely reaching the other side, multiple other gaps had been crossed. Walkways cracking one after another the further they got, the chimera could not help but feel a wave of bewilderment. Had this been how Theater Mechanicus worked? Maybe he had missed some context a moment ago.


Final room soon reached, an army of monsters with shields had overtaken the area. Seeing such, the soldier prepared his hyena claws, but he had been held back from fighting. Taller panda chimera informing him normal damage would not work here, he tilted his head. What did that even mean?


"Ah, I see, have you perhaps not heard of Theater Mechanicus before?" Jiaolong asked, perplexed. "We cannot fight the monsters, those machines are the key to winning." He then pointing at the terrifying Pyro totems. "These mechanisms should be able to defeat them. Quite refreshing, no?"


Devices one after another defeating the shielded creatures, the soldier closed his eyes as the flames grew. What about letting machines do all the work was refreshing? Herbs dropping downward upon the ground, the taller panda had soon dashed around to collect them. Exit door soon appearing, the party of two had soon be expelled from paradise.


Panda chimera informing him there had been no more domains, at least to his knowledge, the party of two had begun to turn back towards Liyue Harbor. But, as they had reached the bridge, two irritated faces blocked the pathway towards the capital city. Tilting his head upward, the chimera bowed himself out of the drama race about to befall everyone.


"Jiaolong, where were you?!' Shenlong asked in an exclamatory tone. "Your prior engagements couldn't have possibly taken you eight hours!"


"Yeah, Jojo, I'm with Shena!" Qiulong exclaimed.


"I already told you two, I had prior engagements to attend to today, did I not?" Jiaolong responded, scratching his eyebrows. "I was taking care of some abyssal energy."


"And that took you all day?!" Shenlong asked in an exclamatory tone.


Argument looking ready to start, the early adult stepped out of the way. Whatever family drama was about to be incurred was no business of his. Stepping through Guili Plains, the wharf soon awaited. Agent yet again in the generic Snezhnayan merchant's spot, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. What kind of lies was he selling today?


Writing down all his findings in the notebook, the soldier watched as the Agent studied his findings. Mask shaking from side to side the early adult broke out into a cold sweat. Was he about to be told his efforts weren't good enough? He would apologize for his lackluster performance immediately, if so.


"Keep investigating these domains tomorrow, soldier," the Agent said in a commanding tone. "You are dismissed. Head back to your temporary quarters for now."


Returning to Wangshu Inn, an immediate wave of tiredness flowed through the hyena. Everything soon removed, the soldier slumped into the temporary bed. World of sleep ready to take him away at any given moment, one final thought looped on repeat for minutes on end.


Why did Jiaolong mention abyssal energy?


***


"Well, we've been tryin ta ignore that
Eerie little witch feller, but
I don't think we can anymore.
Right as we were plannin' on asking Katheryne for a
Different job, she went an' told us to go
Over and deal


With some weird domains popping up everywhere!
I try and tell her we ain't gonna do all
That, but she tell us both to take this job, or leave it. Aww,
Come on, Katheryne, what's with the 'tude today,
Huh? Eh, not like I am any better. Hmm, wonder if we're gonna run into that witch


Dude Fèng spotting
Unleashing spells the other
Day. We tried ignorin' them, but it seems like we can no longer.
Eh, he's probs a small fry.
There's nothing about
This witch that's all that threatenin'.
Oh, how do I know that? 'Cause ya know I'm an otter mage, right? Ah, ya don't. Kay. Well, it's my turn t' be in the story. Watch carefully!"


Waking up the next morning, the soldier had been given information immediately upon emerging from his slumber. Agent informing him someone had found domains north of Cuijue Slope, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Where had these other domains been found? Subordinate demanding he take out his map, the hyena did as instructed.


Pin dropped on his map, the chimera studied it, for a moment. There had been domains in the nameless areas upon the map? How unusual. But, he supposed the further in the middle of nowhere it was, the better. Leaving the inn behind, the early adult had taken the southern road. Curving towards the west shortly after, the next order of business had soon been upon him.


Finding the first domain at a relatively quick pace, the early adult threw himself in. But, whom awaited him inside was quite the unexpected pair. Spotting Fèng with bun covers over his hair and a cherry pink dress to match, and Linggui wearing a turtle print male Liyue style outfit, the hyena prepared himself for choice words to come his way.


Hearing someone else come into the domain, Fèng soon turned around. Seeing who it was, a cheeky smile grew on his face. Look who it was, Yínlóng's boyfriend! Had he come in here to try and plan out a nice date spot? How romantic of him. He could use a little bit a tease right about now.


Yínlóng's boyfriend walking straight in, a cheeky smile grew on Linggui's face in tandem. It was this fella again. He supposed he could drop the caution. Fatui smatui, this dude looked like a fun guy to tease. Waving, he readied for his performance of the ages for no one to see.


"Yer Yínlóng's boyfriend!" Linggui exclaimed pointing. He then placed his hand in front of his mouth, belting a chuckle. "Did ya make a wrong turn on yer date?"


"You won't have any romantic getaways in here!" Fèng added. "It's an abyss heap."


The soldier rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. These otter twins, they were still at this shtick? He was no one's boyfriend. Placing his hands in front of him, the soldier signed he had been here for work, not play, a serious look decorated his face. Bright looks soon leaving the duo's faces, they cleared their throats.


"We're here for work, too," Fèng responded. "Would you like to tag along with us?"


Shrugging, the soldier supposed working with a team would not hurt. What could possibly go wrong? But, he had regret thinking such almost immediately. Abyssal denizens on the prowl everywhere, Multiple fights one after another had broken out to the point of cacophony.


Combined efforts of Electro, Hydro and hyena class taking the denizens out of the picture, the fights looped for hours on end. Enemies removed from the equation, the soldier prayed the door would appear within the labyrinths soon, but such had been immediate wishful thinking as the next corridor had been reached.


Coming to a room with multiple mirrors reflecting a message flared within the mirrors. Reflection reading crack the mirrors to reveal the truth, the chimera jumped six steps back. He would have to break these things? Hadn't shattering a mirror been the harbinger of bad luck? But, he supposed he didn't have a choice in the matter. Before he could go about such sin, however, voices interrupted him.


"Feng, are ya alright with lookin' in a mirror today?" Linggui asked.


"I'm cute and wearing makeup today, so I should be fine," Fèng responded.


Everyone gazing at their reflection, glass flew everywhere as the mirrors had been decimated one after another. Onslaught of glass continuing, the soldier let out a battle cry. Was this about to be the domain's final boss? He was ready, if so. Bring on the shards of doom.


But, what awaited him as the final mirror cracked was a shock of the ages. Mirror image of himself with a reverse color pallet, the soldier backed six steps away. Who was this staring at him? Almost identical face glaring back at him, a polearm had been lunged his way. Jumping back, he had soon come to a realization.


He had been looking in a mirror, indeed.


Mirror him talking his ear off saying nonsensical garbage about fire being the most lovely thing in the world, the soldier rolled his eyes to the sky. Reverse him, how annoying. Was this what it would have been like if he had a Pyro Vision? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat and beyond there were multiple versions of oneself with the same face but different personalities. But, the early adult threw such thoughts out. There was no way this could ever hope to be him.


Fèng and Linggui destroying their mirror selves, the early adult picked up a large glass shard. Reflection him shattered with own materials, the group kept pressing onward. Abyssal denizens vanquished in the process, more than twenty rooms of battles had been done and dealt with.


Reaching the final room, a robed denizen had soon awaited the party of three. Abyss Mage creature demanding a fight, the battle was on. But, such fight had barely lasted a minute. Linggui's Hydro tome deleting the creature's shield from existence, in the blink of an eye, the mage was no more.


Exit door soon appearing the party of three exited the area. Fèng explaining there had been two other domains further up north, the soldier ran behind the otter twins. What other trouble was about to be brewed further in? He knew, whatever was about to await him, he had to prepare himself for anything.


Second dungeon reached after about fifteen minutes of running, a long winded corridor with abyssal puzzles and enemies soon awaited the trio. Mirrors everywhere, as well, the hyena shook his head. This person who made this labyrinth, were they vain? Coming to such conclusion, he let out a groan. If a penguin chimera made this place, he was leaving right away.


Puzzles involving shooting Abyss Mages from a certain distance, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. What in the world was this domain? Robed denizens enjoying being the targets aplenty, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Was this place some monsters sick and twisted fantasy world? Who in the world enjoyed getting hit?


Second challenge being more or less the same, the soldier had been handed a strange pistol in the shape of a large peanut. Banner across the sky stating to defeat the Abyss Mages with no more than fifteen nuts, the early adult could hardly believe he was reading. What kind of ridiculous labyrinth had he been dragged into this time?


No more than seven peanuts shelled out to the enemy, the enemies crumbled to dust in a matter of moments. Next round of monsters gone as well, the early adult slapped his hand across his face. This had to have been the most ridiculous domain yet. What a nutty adventure.


Mirror versions of themselves defeated in more than ten corridors in a row, the soldier let out a tired huff. This domain, there was something fishy about it. The abyssal gazelles did they have a hand at creating this? But, he threw such thoughts away. Why was he assuming this was their doing? There was far too much chaos for such to even be anywhere near the case.


Reaching the final room after about three hours of fighting, a strange boss awaited within the last room. Large mermaid creature with a metallic knight helmet, the early adult rose an eyebrow. What did this have anything to do with peanuts? This domain's story, if there was one, was as thin as ice. But, he had soon been thrown back into reality as a comment had released itself into the wild.


"I wish I was a mermaid," Fèng said, sense of longing in his voice. "That way I'd have nothing down there..." His words dragged as he said such.


"Feng, ya know we're otters," Linggui responded. "We can just transform anytime we want."


"Oh, right," Fèng replied. "Let's teach Miss Mermaid here a lesson she'll never forget!"


Hyena, and otter twins bringing out the big peanut guns, nuts flew around the area one after another in full swing. Multiple exploding in the merfolk's armor one after another, not much of a challenge had been presented to the strange creature. Hearing something rip as the fight reached its end, a blinding light engulfed the area.


Finding themselves in another domain the early adult blinked. Where had he been taken to? Otter duo soon flocking in, as well, they added their own confusion to the mix. Heavy wave of dark aura looming throughout, everyone proceeded with caution. Tiny little Abyss Mages floating around, the peanut guns were ready.


Monsters defeated in one fell swoop, the hyena scratched the side of his head. These Mages why were they so tiny? Spark popping off in his brain as he thought such, he clutched the tip of his peanut cannon. These creatures were weak, pathetic, losers, a bug to his shoe. They deserved to be erased from this world.


But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. Why did he just think that? Surely, these creatures were just smaller than normal ones, there was no need for such violent thinking. Every single other tiny robed denizen destroyed along the pathway, one final room awaited. But, the person that was inside was of no surprise.


Izzet all by their lonesome seated upon a pitch black dragon, the soldier rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Of course these domains were the abyssal gazelles doing, who else could have made these things? Not seeing Kelebek anywhere, the chimera placed his arms across his waist. Were they acting alone today? How peculiar.


"Nyahahaha! You've fallen into our trap!" Izzet exclaimed. "Dragon queen, get them!" As they said such, they hopped off their dragon.


Such dragon, however, had been nothing more than a mere toothpick upon the ground. Barrage of peanuts taking the creature out in a matter of moments, Izzet grit their teeth. Seeing such, the chimera slapped his palm across his face. Were they about to exact revenge again? How predictable.


"We will get our revenge, just you wait!" Izzet exclaimed. As they shouted such, they threw themselves into a black portal.


Abyssal gazelle and their weak dragon gone, the chimera shook his head. What was next, they'd say looks like they're blasting off again? But he threw such thoughts out. Wrong universe. Exit door soon reached, the party of three had soon been kicked out of the clutches of the corridors. Goofy grins soon on him, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. What did these two have to say to him now? If they were going to unleash more teases his way, they were going to get something back.


"Bet yer boyfriend misses you right 'bout now!" Linggui exclaimed.


"Yínlóng's been waiting for you for forever!" Fèng exclaimed, laughing. "You'll make them sad if you're a ghost for too long!"


Comments coming his way, the early adult let out a sigh. Fine, he'll go get some tea. Taking out his teleport waypoint proxy orb, the hyena prepared to highlight the Liyue Harbor waypoint. But, another annoying interruption had soon overtook the area. Annoying Eleventh Harbinger running on by out of breath, his grating voice overtook the area.


"Where are the dungeons?" the eleventh harbinger asked, out of breath.


Eleventh Harbinger looking eager to battle, the soldier shook his head. He should have come by days ago by now. Placing his fingers out in front of him, the soldier signed the word gone for the entire population of three in front of him to see. Dejected look on his face, the chimera held back the urge to give him some words about first come, first served.


"Drat," Tartaglia whimpered. "Should have come earlier."


Otters throwing the harbinger a pity party, the soldier highlighted the Liyue Harbor waypoint once more. Pressing the teleport button, the Agent had soon awaited him at the wharf once more. Writing down his findings, he swore he could see his subordinate shake his head.


"Your mission is done, soldier," the Agent said. "You are dismissed. Head back to Snezhnaya within an hour."


Dismissal soon granted, the chimera headed over towards the teahouse. Tall brunette in his usual seat and Opera Singer performing a show with some storyteller, the early adult placed himself in his usual chair. Panda chimera soon walking over, a warm smile soon appeared on the hyena's face.


"Oh, hey, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "Here for some tea?"


Giving the panda a nod, slight herbal blend soon coming his way, the early adult sipped the beverage. Minty aftertaste taking his throat for a ride, the early adult attempted to not cough. But, the flavor soon switched over to a sweetness. Pink eyes soon on him, the chimera gave eye contact.


"So, what kind of job did you have today?" Yínlóng asked, words slow. "Is it true you went exploring those weird domains?"


Giving the panda chimera a nod, a look of worry appeared on their face, seeing such, the chimera placed his hands out in front of him. Signing they were just mere fantasy adventures created by someone, the soldier stared off into space. Did that sound like a lie? He knew it might have, but he knew he couldn't say he had fought with the abyss order.


"Sounds like you had quite the adventure," the tall brunette chimed in, sipping tea.


"Indeed," the opera singer added.


Sipping his tea, the soldier blinked. Had this really been an adventure? He did not quite see it the same way. Such had been nothing but chaos, but he knew he couldn't say such. Sipping the final portion of his tea, the soldier stood upward. Bidding his farewells to the panda chimera and tall brunette, the military barracks waypoint had soon been highlighted.


Walking through the icy cold hallways, the soldier had reached the soundproof room after about ten minutes of walking. Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But, as the world of sleep was ready to take him away, one final thought dragged the soldier down to the depths of the nightmare ocean.


Why had Izzet been alone in that final domain?


The abyssal gazelles, had their plans been expanding?

 

[Palamon]

33. Undersea Fontaine Legends: Frogs, Gators, Fawns; Blue Fog

"Blue what now?
Listen, Your Majesty,
Unless you're completely
Exaggerating, I don't understand this one bit.


Fog is a colorless weather,
Odorless. Could it actually be
Gas? Perhaps so.


It has to be.


As I am sure that
Maybe the case. Ah,


No, what do I know?
Obviously, I have never
Taken any initiative to study gases.


Quite honestly, there's no time.
Ugh, had I known
I would have
Taken the moment to study.
Either way, whatever this is


Something is quite fishy.
Up to this point, I
Really do not think I have
Ever seen something like this. Ah, wait


I have. I remember now.


Uh, there was cyanide in the pipes once.
No. That's completely unrelated, well, actually
Doubt that.
Everything about that is not unrelated.
Right. How could I forget?
Something about
This is
Absolutely related
Nothing about this isn't.
Don't think for a second it's not.


Though, I don't
Have a clue what
Is truly going on here.
Something just isn't right.


Where could any of this
Have possibly come from? The
Abyssal Gazelles, I doubt even
They have the power to change the weather.


It has to be impossible.
Not even they can do


That, I am absolutely certain.
How could they?
Even I know that's something not


Within their capabilities.
Or, is it? How should I know?
Right. How should I know?
Look, I really
Do not know what they are capable of.


If they can do
Something that can remove entire areas,


How could I possibly know
Anything else they're capable of? They're
Probably capable of ending worlds, they're
Probably capable of anything.
Nothing at all is
Impossible for them.
No, no. That can't be. Stop
Giving them so much credit.


They aren't all that powerful,
How could they be?
It's not like they're Archons.
So, I should not


Make these
Absolutely wild suggestions. I
Know they are not gods.
Even I know that
Should not be the case. It is


Not, or perhaps it shouldn't be.
Oh, well, it is time to close this case.


Something tells me this is just the beginning of
Easy battles becoming more difficult.
No, perhaps not, but
Something tells me
Everything is about to break.


Why is everything like this?
How could this be?
As the days go on
There is never a peaceful moment.
So much is always happening.
Or, rather I guess
Everything is always happening at once.
Very much so.
Eh, that's how it's always been
Really. And how


Everything always will be.
Very much like this
Even if they're absent I must
Remind myself: my life is chaotic.
Yes, I'm a soldier
That's just
How it always is
It'll always be like that.
Nothing will change, so
Get ready. Get up


It's time to clear
Some blue fog.


Just go with the flow.
Unless it's all gas, it
Should not be
That much of a problem. I


Guess, anyway.
Each and every moment could
Take a turn, a
Twist. That's always possible
It's always possible
Nothing is ever a dull moment. Is that a
Good thing? Not really?


Or, rather, it is better
Dull moments exist.
Does that sound
Especially strange? Probably.
Really, it hardly matters.


All of this is
Nothing that truly matters.
Don't think for a moment it means anything.


Oh, well. I am a soldier.
Dull moments don't exist.
Dull moments are
Especially uncommon,
Rare. Completely unheard of.


How could I ever hope for an easy day?
Obviously, it is
Not happening.
Everything happens all at once.
Something is wrong with
This fog, but
Looks like I have no choice.
Yield my thoughts. Time for action."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The anguish was a white carpet, dyed black with every single night passing. The carpet would only continued to be tainted as the evening continued onward. The night before him had been no different as well.


Before him had been a field of chocolate cosmos. The flowers were bright red with a piney brown corolla in the center. Seeing such flowers, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just where in the dream world could he have been? The early adult had been none the wiser. He had never seen these flowers before in the mortal, waking world.


Seating himself by the plants, paradise had immediately been ruined. Feeling something sticky underneath his possibly human rear, the hyena let out a gagging noise. What was this slimy gross feeling? Lifting himself upward for a moment, the early adult studied the ground around him.


Gooey white slime underneath his buttocks, the hyena let out a growl. Who in the world put down this disgusting layer of trash? He needed to move away, right this instant. But, such had been the beginning of his problems in a matter of moments. Sticky trash following him around like a stalker, the chimera's seconds of safety were numbered.


Slimy garbage continuing to follow him around as if it were a person, the hyena grit his teeth. Attempting to run away with all his might, the goop clung onto his wrist. Feeling such, the early adult allowed another growl to escape the dream esophagus. What was this disgusting, goopy and dirty garbage? Whoever put down this layer of trash would pay for such dream space crimes.


Speeding up his running speed a smidgeon, the soldier let out a scream within the dream world. Surely, he could outpace this trash. It had to have been possible. Accelerating his sprint within the not reality before him, the garbage kept on following. Slimy trash gaining momentum, the early adult kept sprinting.


Goop gaining arms and legs as he kept on going, the hyena held back the soldier kept on running. This thing could change shape? How awful. If trash could gain sentience in the real world, he was done, over, finished. But, he knew he still had a chance to outpace it. Dragging his foot across the grass, his running speed had reached maximum capacity.


But, such had not been enough. Monstrosity gaining momentum, the early adult could feel droplets pour down upon his head one after another. Coming to such realization, the hyena raised his head upwards towards the unreal sky above him. But, what awaited him had been worse, twentyfold.


Sticky white droplets teeming down from the sky, the soldier attempted to run once more. It was raining garbage now, too? Why couldn't this trash disappear already? He needed to get away from here, right this instant. This vanilla rain had to go take a hike up the mountains, and stay there.


Such did not happen, even for a moment. slime coming from behind him, the early adult had become one with the ground. Arms and legs glued to the ground, the soldier broke out into a teeming sweat. Was it just his imagination, or had the dream world been hot, all of a sudden? Surely, he had to have been overthinking it. Feeling sensations had been next to impossible in the subconscious world.


Heat climbing upward, the soldier's sweat bathed his clothing deep. Everything ready to burn, he let out a yelp at the noise around him. Hearing laughter for minutes on end the chimera turned his dream head towards the right and left. Who was that? But, he had soon gotten an unfortunate answer.


Abyss Mages floating around in the sky laughing on repeat, a slight bit of rage flowed through the soldier. What were these creatures doing here? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. He supposed he had been thinking a lot more often lately for them to invade his dreams.


Mages dancing around, fear took the soldier or the ride. These robed denizens, what were they up to? Whatever it was, torment was waiting for him right around the corner. He had to break free from this glue, this instant. Such continued to be an impossibility, however. Adhesive only getting stronger, the hyena had to sit and watch as the dances had only begun to intensify.


Robed denizens singing songs gleefully, the soldier had been lifted upwards from the ground. Floating suspended upon midair, fear nibbled on the cartilage of the hyena's ear. What was going on here? Something was not right. Mages laughter only getting stronger, they soon enchanted incomprehensible spells.


Flaming hammers seated in their hands, the early adult's dream eyes opened wide. Where did they get those weapons from? Mallets immediately set ablaze, glass shattered around him. It was over, he was about to be burned, toasted, roasted, a mole to be whacked upon the ground.


Weapons coming towards him, the soldier tried with all his might to dodge any incoming strike. But, such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Multiple coming out at him at once, he closed the dream eyes. It was over, there was no escape. He was about to struck by Bludgeon Angel Mage-chan. Whatever the phrase -chan, mean. The soldier had no idea.


Hammers hitting him all at once once after another, the early adult had no longer been airborne. Slamming down head first into the ground, blunt contusions had knocked him out of the park one after another. Mallets pummeling him on repeat, the hyena's strength had been sapped away.


Mages letting out a laugh, the final round had been signaled upon the dream air. Mallets set ablaze, the chimera's uniform had been burned up into nothing. Backside charred to a crisp, the chimera surrendered. His energy was a corpse upon the battlefield. Dead and gone, with no one coming to the funeral. Everything pitch black in a matter of moments, the hyena closed his eyes. As his final seconds ticked, one last thought poked the dream brain.


Glue was the enemy.


***


"I uh, um


Am beginning to suspect something
Might be about


To happen around Fontaine. I,
Rabiu have been getting
Unusual signals a
Lot lately.
Yet, whenever I bring it up to my brothers and


Sister, um, well
They just laugh
At me. And they tell me:
'Robby, ya know
That thing of yours
Is broken!' Um,
No it isn't? But, I
Guess they have never


Truly thought that highly
Of me. After all, they're always calling me adopted,


So why would I think they'd ever tell me anything positive?
Usually, it's always the same thing they
Say. That thing is broken,
Please fix your silly broken invention,
Everything you make has a few screws loose. Um, uh,
Can I get positive feedback at least once in my life?
That's wishing upon a star,


Though, I think.
Hmm, Lonan tells me
I shouldn't listen to them, and you know what?
Now's the best time to follow that advice.
Guess what, um, my machinery isn't broken,
So take that


All of you!
Right, as if I could
Ever say that


As I already know, they'd just fire
Back: I'm adopted.
Oh, well, they
Usually say that to me anyway.
They always say that. But,


This time, I know they're wrong about my machinery
Oh, um, well, I


Think they are always wrong
About it being broken, I
Know they are. I am no hack.
Even so, there was very big readings today,


And I cannot just ignore them.


There is something going on, and
Uh, I need to go find Lonan to investigate.
Right, um, he'll help me.
Now just to step outside the research institute, and huh? What is this


Fog I am seeing?
Oh, no, it's blue. That is
Rather strange.


This mist is pretty thick. I employ my anomaly detecting robots,
Hai and Morgi, and
Every reading is off the charts! Um, uh


What's going on here?
Oh, no, this isn't good.
Right, this is bad, um,
Something is definitely not right here.
Everything in Fontaine has been getting so much worse lately.


Fog this blue, there must be some sort of gas in it.
Ah, um, yes, I really
Should investigate
This further. This is not good!"


Four days have passed since the hyena investigated the labyrinths that had appeared around Liyue. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Business affairs of nothing taking place in Dornman Port, ninety-six hours passed by rather slowly. Nothingness engulfing him, absolutely nothing happened for days on end.


The sound of morning alarm bells struck with a bombastic fervor. As the alarm bells continued making their rampage known for minutes on end, hundreds of Fatui soldier groaned in an echo. The alarm bells were right on time in punctuality, as usual. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Raising his body upward, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, he knew he had to get over it. Dreams were not real. Taking a deep breath, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the soldier's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the early adult could not help but wonder. Could things be about ready to go back to normal? Not a thing had occurred whatsoever for a half-week. But, the hyena shook his head. Dornman Port had no reason for abyssal activity to thrive.


Buttons in the correct holes, the early adult removed the cover off his jewelry and accessory box. Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, plain cross shaped ones adorned his hair and ears. Letting out a sigh, bitterness brewed a thick tea inside him. He should not get too comfortable with abyss's absence. Any day now, and they would return.


Memories of the week prior flowing back in the early adult walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. Izzet had been working alone the last time had encountered him. Realizing such once more, a sea of thoughts had begun to drown the soldier into the frozen oceans.


Not encountering Kelebek at all in the past week, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had the abyssal gazelles begun to split up and cause chaos in areas separate from one another? The soldier did not know why, but that sounded far more dangerous than them working together.


But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, letting his thoughts wander towards the hooded strangers? They hardly mattered. If he wasn't dealing with them, he had no reason to think about them any further. Ending his circular motion about, the early adult headed back towards his uniform drawers.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier's Geo Delusion glared daggers at him. Gazing back at it, the hyena could not help but wonder. The sinister yellow orb, could it be the tool he needed to defeat the abyssal gazelles once and for all? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. That would not happen. He knew they had to have been more powerful than the strength of two-hundred delusions combined.


Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the hyena took a long, deep breath. Whether or not he would be up against the abyssal gazelles today, he had to be ready for anything. Glasses adjusted, and thoughts tossed aside, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomping onward with a fervor, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult turned his face towards the door. It was time for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be investigating a few underwater legends for the next few days." But, the Agent paused for a brief moment. "You will also be investigating a blue fog that has appeared in the area." The masked agent gave unseen eyes contact with his subordinate in arms. Solving the problems of neighboring nations would make it easier for Her Majesty to take over the world.


The early adult jumped six steps back upon hearing his orders. He has to go investigate legends around Fontaine again? He did not understand. Why did he have to look into legends once more? What would any of this do for Her Majesty? This made absolutely no sense.


Words blue fog echoing in his inhuman eardrums, the hyena jumped three further steps back. Since when did Fontaine have a blue fog problem? Just what had happened while he had been away for so long? The soldier did not know why, but something about that had felt quite off.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be investigating legends underwater and attempting to find a source for blue fog around Fontaine!" What could have possibly been on the soldier's mind besides work? The Agent could hardly fathom it.


The chimera flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. It was a crime to keep Her Majesty waiting. Taking a long, deep breath, the early adult placed his hand out in front of him. Investigate legends? Surely, nothing would go wrong. Turning to face the Agent, the work mode switch flipped upward.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded. Peculiarities or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter but to deal with it.


"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, he gripped the limb into a squeeze tight enough to bruise. "But, I must warn you, before we depart. The fog might be poisonous. So, wear a mask, soldier." Escort towards Fontaine soon beginning, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. The fog could have possibly been poisonous? No, why was this happening? Not again. Why now, of all times? Fast travel towards the Hydro Nation of Justice about to end, the thoughts repeated themselves.


Not poison again.


Anything but poison.


***


"I usually ignore Rabiu's silly little requests, but


He's insisting I test the
Air for acidity! Me, moi? Test the air for
Venom? No, I'm way too cute for that,
Eek! So, I go and


Tell him he's adopted, like usual,
Ehehehe, but he's insisting again! Aww,
Sheesh, okie dokie,
Then, I will!
Ehehe, just for all this I'm forging adoption
Documents with my typewriter!


Take that, Robby!
Hehe, well, anyhoo!
Every little amount of data counts!


For now, I take to the skies,
Oh man, this fog is really thick!
Good gravy, is it so thick! And blue! Blue


Fog? Um, huh, hold on here!
Oluchi doesn't wanna deal with any of this, nopers!
Really can't believe


This silly little adopted fool!
Oh, but, I tell him I'm not gonna do it, he'll cry or something!
Xaaaa, fine!
I guess I'll go and
Check the toxin levels. I fly up above the fog and take my cute little


Machines with me,
And mayday, mayday!
There's highly concentrated levels of poison in the fog!
Eeek! Better wear a mask!
Roar, ha, maybe Rabiu's machines aren't broken after all! Ah, wait, not
It was thanks to me
And in no way shape or form him!
Look cute little me
Staking out all the problems


And find a solution! That was my doing,
Not his! Hehe, I'm taking all the credit!
Don't stop me! Ahem!


In any case,
This fog is not safe to breathe in!


Right, I came to that conclusion all on my own!
Everyone knows that! Better
Go get my mask!
It is pretty
Strange, though! I don't
Think I have
Ever seen blue fog before! Was gonna
Rule out gas since a majority of those are colorless and odorless, but not
Every single gas is like that, you know?
Don't know what kinda gas it is,


And I don't want
To know, but


This stuck came out of nowhere!
Ha, well, it'll clear.
Ehehe, I'm so smart, pretty and cute! I


Doubt this stuff is lethal,
And thus, I'll be continuing my work,
Not without a mask thought, of course, hehe.
Get the cutest one out of my drawer, and presto! I am protected from that
Eerie little foggy weather!
Robby may have been the one to suggest it, but he's not getting credit! None


Zilch, nada! "Olu, don't you think you're being a little too cruel to Rabiu lately?"
Oh, you're saying that's cruel, Folu? What do you know? This is my story! "You've been bullying poor Robby a lot more lately."
Nah, Sani, you're wrong
Ehehe, bullying? Not at all! Don't be silly!"


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the soldier had immediately been handed a plain white clothed face mask. Fabric placed over his mouth and nose, and itching sensation overtook him. But, the hyena stopped himself. Wearing this was for the best. It was best to let his discomfort go.


Dragged down the mountain like usual, the chimera had been placed in the wooden vessel. Boat cruised forward in a matter of moments, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just how bad could the fog possibly be? Surely, the Agent had been exaggerating when he said it had been poisonous.


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, the hyena stared off into space. What's the worst that could happen? It was just fog. But, he knew if he thought something like that, something bad was bound to happen at any given moment. It would no be wise of him to brush off every single concern.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor before he could even think about it, the early adult had been dragged towards the staircase. Agent reminding him for what felt like the nonillionth time to not teleport anywhere in Fontaine. Hearing such, the early adult resisted the urge to bite. He knew already! How many times was he going to say it before it had been enough? He could hear him perfectly fine.


Bag soon slammed onto his backside, interesting information had come his way. Told he would be investigating the legend of the frog and alligator of Annapausis, and the mythos of Mary Anne and her villa, the Agent soon exited the area. Silence soon kicking itself in, chimera readied himself.


Ascending the staircase, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Why had there been fog so low towards the ground? But, the chimera shook his had. He was imagining it, surely. Taking the glass lift, the hyena pressed the button to summon the aquabus.


Not a single soul stirring within Romaritime Harbor, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Where was everyone today? But, he supposed the citizens were trying to better safe than sorry. Waiting for the Aquabus to arrive, the hyena attempted with all his might to tune out the silence around him.


Aquabus arriving after about twenty minutes, a surprised look had appeared on the Melusine's face. Or, at least the soldier thought so. Her lips had been practically invisible. Melusine informing him no one had been riding the Aquabus for days, a shock shot down the soldier's spine. No one had been riding it for that long? Something was not right here.


Placing himself on the back seat, the vessel soon moved itself forward. Melusine informing him it might be a bit of a bumpy ride today, the soldier kept himself seated. A bumpy ride? Had there been rocks on the way? If such were the case, he supposed it could not be helped. Nature was quite unpredictable.


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised past Poisson Tunnel, the early adult stared off into space. Where in the world did all this blue fog come from? He knew there was no way any of this could have been normal. Fog had been white, usually. Could there have been some sort of gas inside it making it blue?


Sky barely visible, the early adult gazed at it. What could have been causing this unusual weather? Hadn't fog been something that rarely occurred in other nations? The hyena supposed he didn't know enough about the Fontaine weather patterns for it to matter.


Melusine explaining the fog just showed up one day completely out of nowhere, the early adult broke out into a deep cold sweat. It just came out of nowhere? If that were the case, it had to have been an issue for days on end, at this point. Why hadn't he been called over to deal with it sooner?


Aquabus tour guide not offering him any useful information regarding the fog, the early adult placed his hands on the base of his chin. None of what she had been saying was helpful in the slightest. But, he knew he couldn't say something like that to her. Keeping himself quiet, he listened in silence to the sea denizen's claims.


Reaching the capital city of Fontaine after about after about half an hour, words of caution had soon come his way. Informed it had been very dangerous out there, the soldier nodded. Proceeding in a careful manner was the only way to go forward, for sure. Stepping towards the entrance, the chimera prepared himself.


Stepping into the Court of Fontaine, something of immediate note had caught the chimera's attention. Multiple Fontaine citizens walking around the streets with fancy face masks, the chimera shook his head. The rich sure adored their expensive fabrics didn't they? Those mouth and nose coverings had to have been made out of silk, for sure.


Knowing he had to head to the fourth floor of the city to head over to Annapausis, the soldier had begun walking upon the northern pathway. Multiple generic nobodies complaining the fog was too thick, the early adult's eyebrows had begun to twitch. Just how thick could it have possibly been beyond this overpass?


Such question had been answered in a matter of moments. Deep blue fog everywhere nearly touching the ground, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. This mist, why was it so low to the ground, was that normal? But, he knew he had to move onward. The choice was not his.


Attempting to move forward with all his might, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of confusion. Was he even going the right way at all? The chimera did not know. Absolutely nothing was visible in any shape or form. Pressing onwards towards the pathway in front of him, the early adult relied on muscle memory to the best of his ability.


As the soldier kept walking through the void, he could not help but ponder. Just how long had the Nation of Justice been plagued by this sudden occurrence? The Melusine tour guide had mentioned it had been like this for days, but could it have been like this for far longer?


Pressing on, the chimera shook his head. How was he supposed to know how long this fog has been here? He hadn't been in Fontaine for about two weeks now. So much could have happened in the period he had been away. There was never a way to know for sure. Everything was unpredictable.


Absolutely nothing in front of him visible, the early adult hopped upward. Had he still been going north? He could not tell. The area's visibility had to have been no more than five percent at best. Rich people glaring at him asking why was this poor eyesore jumping, the hyena's cheeks grew red. He was an eyesore? How rude.


Less rich people around to act like he was poor filth beneath their fancy shoes, the early adult leaped upward again. Was that the Adventurer's Guild up ahead? He had hardly been about halfway through the city at this point. He needed to speed up his walking speed, for sure.


Slow walk sped up into a moderate stroll, the early adult could not help but wonder again. Where could this fog have possibly come from? Something had been quite off with it, for sure. Nothing was natural about it whatsoever. Could someone else have created it to cause problems?


But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. Why was he jumping to such conclusions? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. There was no way anyone would be able to change the weather, just like that. Such force of nature acted on its own. Trying to shake such thoughts away, the early adult sauntered onward.


The thoughts, however, kept going. Could the Hydro Archon have been angry? Maybe the fog was her doing. But, the hyena tossed such thoughts down the stairs. Fog had to do with Anemo, not Hydro. He was making far too many assumptions. There was no answer. He needed to stop thinking about the why or how.


Moving on, the soldier swore he could hear someone scream fashionable masks for sale. Scratching his ears, the early adult had begun to make assumptions. He had been near Chioriya Boutique there was nothing to see here. But, as he had attempted to pass through the area, he could feel hands upon the back of his uniform collar.


Dragged off towards a building, the hyena held back the urge to scream. Who had grabbed him, and why were they dragging him off somewhere? If he was about to be held for some sort of Fatui ransom, he bites. But, the soldier's thoughts were soon interrupted in a matter of moments.


Spotting displays of kimonos, suits and dresses in a small room, the early adult's back collar had soon been freed. Owner of the Chioriya Boutique standing a few meters away from him with a dry look in her eyes, and arms crossed around her waist, the soldier did such action in tandem. What was the Chioriya Boutique owner doing forcefully dragging him into her store? She wouldn't be getting any customers like that with such heavily exuded force, guaranteed.


"Your mask sticks out like a sore thumb," the Chioriya Boutique owner said in a dry tone. "Buy a better looking one." As she said such, a table with patterned face masks had been revealed.


Demands coming his way, the soldier's jaw dropped straight open. This boutique owner dragged him into her shop just to tell him his mask wasn't good looking? Why did that matter? It should not have, in the slightest. The one he had been provided was sufficient enough.


Turning his head off towards the opposite direction, the early adult placed his hand on his cheeks. He couldn't be seen here. I the penguin pests saw him walking out of Chioriya Boutique, he would never hear the end of it. Their annoyance level would increase by ten if they knew he had bought anything here. A lie, yes, he had to tell something untruthful to get him kicked out of her store.


"I'm sorry, ma'am! I am a costumer at Congele boutique!" the hyena lied.


"That woman has no face face masks for sale," the owner of Chioriya Boutique said. But, the hyena swore he could hear her let out a snide laugh as she said such.


Bowing an apology, the soldier exited the boutique. There was no way he could buy one of the Chioriya Boutique face masks. The penguin family were the last people he wanted to make enemies with. Employee outside once again shouting her fashionable face masks for sale, the hyena had begun running. He had to get out of here before he was dragged back inside.


As the hyena had begun to run upon the westward path, the questions inside him had begun to soar. Why did he lie to the Chioriya Boutique owner? He shouldn't have done such a thing. Lying was wrong. But, as he thought such, something clicked inside him. Was that the sound of someone puffing a cigar telling another person not to smoke? He knew he had been guilty of telling white lies every once in awhile.


Running through the fog, the soldier let out a tired huffed. He supposed it wasn't entirely a lie. He had been going to Congele Boutique more often than he was willing to admit. But, had he been a customer? Perhaps not. Maybe it would have been better to just say he had not been interested.


Fog only getting thicker, the early adult attempted with all his might to keep on going. Was he still going the right way? The soldier hardly had any idea. Everything had been invisible. Dashing forward on the westward path, the young soldier pressed onward. He would reach the information station eventually.


Continuing to run, the early adult attempted once again to not stray off the path. Just where was he going? He had no idea anymore. Everything had been hard to see. But, he couldn't give up. He had to keep going, no matter what. Fog or not, he knew if he waved the white flag now, he would be in trouble, for sure.


Surprising lack of people around the area, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Where had everyone gone? The silence was deafening. But, the early adult tuned such thoughts out. Whenever disaster struck, most of the rich nobodies cooped themselves up in their houses. Today had to have been no different.


Coming across a staircase, the soldier barreled downward. The information station was close, any second now, and he would be there. One stair slipped upon, the early adult let out a barely audible yelp. Slowing his pace down, the chimera prepared himself for the next order of business.


But, as he had moved away from the stairs, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just him, or had the fog gotten lower to the ground? Everything was blue. How was he supposed to get through here anymore? The world was invisible. Taking a deep breath, he prayed to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship muscle memory would aid him towards the right path.


Struggling to get around for minutes on end, the early adult could feel another body brush against his. Feeling such, he held back the urge to squeak. Had he just run into someone? Whoever he had run into he had to apologize right away. But, he could hear an aggravating groan in a matter of moments. Had he bumped into one of the pesky penguin chimeras? Let the aggravation begin.


Lowering his eyes into a squint, the hyena let could feel a thorn poked into his side. Seeing Earl through the fog with a bag full of face masks behind him, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the invisible sky. Why was it no matter how many times he were to traverse through Fontaine, he had to run into someone from the penguin family? This man was a virus with no known cure.


Feeling someone bump into his hips, Earl let out a groan. Who had just bumped into him while he was working? But, he soon rescinded his annoyance immediately. Siorc was here? Was this the bump of love? He could hear the wedding bells already. But, he stopped himself from getting carried away. It was dangerous here right now. He needed to warn his future husband right away.


"Hi, there, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "It's dangerous out here! You should turn back and head somewhere safe!"


Hearing Earl's suggestion, the soldier rolled his eyes towards wherever the sky was supposed to be. Turn back now? No way he would do that now. Absolutely not. He had a job to do, and there was no way he was backing out now. He had to tell this pesky thorn in his side off.


"I will manage, sir," the soldier responded in an icy tone. As he said such, he turned off towards the opposite direction.


"Be careful!" Earl shouted.


Pressing onward, the early adult held back the urge to let out another groan. Why wouldn't he be careful? He always knew to exude caution, no matter what. Her Majesty was always watching from somewhere in Teyvat. Dragging himself towards the Aquabus information station, the early adult prepared himself.


Not a single soul within the area, the soldier's knees shook. Why was no one in here? The place was a ghost building. Not even the employees had been around. Had this place been closed? But, the soldier shook his head. Closed or not, he had to use the glass lift. Teleporting was not an option.


Moving towards the glass box, the hyena took a long deep breath. It was time to get out of here and head of towards the beach. Would the hawk and falcon chimeras be around the corner? If they had been around, there would be no way to avoid them whatsoever.


As the elevator had reached the fourth floor, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just how dangerous could it have possibly been out in the open wilderness? Surely, it wasn't that bad. But, he knew he needed to remain cautious. The fog could have been poisonous.


Reaching the fourth floor, the early adult walked off towards the eastern path of blue nothing. But, as he had prepared to headed past the Palais Mermonia, the Iudex adorning a dark blue face mask had appeared within his impaired vision, the soldier swore he could hear the Chief Justice of Fontaine call out to him.


"Monsieur Siorc, apologies for my forwardness," the Iudex said. "But could you bring these poison neutralizers to Merusea Village?" As he said such, he removed some tubed objects from his suit.


Turning towards the noise, the soldier scratched the side of his head. The Iudex had a request for him? He probably should lend him a hand, shouldn't he? The Melusines were quite important to him, the soldier ventured to guess. Giving the man a nod, the devices had been handed off to him.


"You have my gratitude, young man," the Iudex said. "Apologies for not being able to fulfill such myself."


Iudex disappearing within the mist, the early adult once again had begun to head off towards the eastern city exit. Blue fog only getting thicker, the soldier let out a sigh. Visibility at around two percent, the hyena sauntered onward. He had been here far many times before. Surely, reaching the city's exit would not be too difficult.


Not a single soul outside in the city's outermost area, the early adult's legs shook. Not even towards the exit had people been around. Just how cautious had the people of Fontaine been? But, the chimera supposed he could not blame them. Being cautious was mandatory.


Unable to tell where he was going for minutes on end, the hyena let out a deep sigh. If only he had a compass to be able to point him off towards the right direction. Striding onto the eastern path, illegal desires kept leaking themselves out. If only there were people around he could ask to point him towards the right direction.


Bumping into a wall with his forehead, the soldier rubbed his temple. When would this extreme weather go the way of the ancient dragons from eras long gone? Lowering his eyes into a squint, the soldier could see the elevator in the corner of his bespectacled eyes. He had finally made it. It was time to get out of here.


Glass lift taking him upward, the soldier stepped onto the cold, hard concrete. Knowing he had to head off towards Annapausis as fast as he could muster, the early adult attempted to move his way towards the grass. The ocean beside the underwater temple had been northwest of here. Surely, he would be able to avoid the hawk and falcon chimera from such a distance.


But, such had only been the beginning of the impossible. Fog even thicker in the northern region in the Court of Fontaine, the early adult heaved a sigh. The world versus the weather had to have been the most boring thing for an audience to watch, ever. Not like he would know. It's not like anyone was narrating his life, or anything.


Entire world in front of him blanketed in layers of nothingness the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Where was he going? Had he been going right, or left? Everything looked exactly the same. It was hard to tell. Grass crunching underneath his feet, the hyena veered off towards the left. Wherever that was, the world was blue.


Lowering his eyes into a squint, the early adult attempted to make heads or tails of the road in front of him. But, as he had attempted to do so, he swore the fog had only increased its potency. Seeing such, the hyena was ready to rip out entire chunks of his hair. If this weather was a person, it was definitely mocking him right about now.


Closing his eyes, the hyena attempted to rely on muscle memory to the best of his ability. Why bother relying on his eyes anymore at this point? They were incredibly useless here. Moving forward, the world was pitch black. Surely, any second now, and he would be out of this nightmare.


Muscle memory had been a total and utter failure. Finding himself back in the same spot more than three times, a wave of heavy confusion flowed through him. Had he been walking around in circles? How embarrassing. Letting out a sigh, the early adult kept his eyes open.


Switching the position of his legs, the early adult ran off towards the western path. Surely, after some time he would reach the area near the ocean. Continuing to dash about he pressed onward, the hyena could hear the familiar sound of electrified arrows hurled upon the wind.


Hearing a battle upwards towards the invisible sky, a shock shot down his spine. The hawk and falcon chimera were here? He had to get out of here as soon as possible, or he would be spotted. Bird chimeras could see through the elements for sure. Fight only getting more intense, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint.


Soon reaching the water, the early adult let out a deep huff. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed. No longer hearing any sort of battle, the chimera attempted to catch his breath. Had he outpaced them? But such had not been the case. Arrow coming his way from nowhere, the hyena jumped four steps backwards. But, as he had done so, shouts had come his way.


"Cease your villainy at once, Fatui!" Robin's voice shouted. But another voice soon kicked in.


"Hon, I highly doubt the Fatui is here," Raven's voice said to Robin's voice. "Drop your arrows."


"Only for you!" Robin's voice shouted. "But, I know that fiend is here somewhere!"


Bird chimeras growing silent, the hyena flipped his satchel towards his frontside. Diving equipment on him, the early adult's fat, blubbery suit absorbed him in a matter of moments. Walking towards the ocean, the hyena climbed upwards towards the barely visible pillar in the corner. Placing himself into a planking position, the chimera's mind had been synched with his diving suit.


But, as the diving suit had taken him downward towards the deep depths of the ocean, the fog struck back with a vengeance. World beyond the surface as invisible as the land up above, the hyena let out a groan. How in the world did this get down here? Whatever this was, it had to have been something far more potent than anyone could have possibly anticipated.


Knowing he had to have his diving suit thrust him even deeper downward, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Suit struggling to move, for a moment, a wave of shock flowed through him. What was going on here? Why wasn't his suit moving? Had it been broken? If such were the case, he was finished.


Attempting to sync up his mind with his diving suit once more, the soldier had moved downward once more. Suit continuing to struggle, a heavy wave of frustration flowed through the hyena. Why had this been such an arduous task? This fog was getting quite aggravating, for sure.


Finally reaching the halfway mark after about an hour of attempts, the soldier let out a sigh. There had to have been a way to dispel the fog, for sure. But, he knew he would have to deal with such later. Dealing with the legends first was the top priority, without a shadow of a doubt.


Seeing a barely visible, but familiar area down below, the early adult kept having his diving suit thrust him towards the southern direction. Just a little longer, and he would finally be in Annapausis. Any second now. Bumping into a wall after a few minutes, the early adult prepared himself.


Entrance towards Annapausis nearing, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why had the frog and alligator chimeras been regarded as legends? This had to have been the first time he had ever heard this before. Was someone spreading false rumors to Her Majesty? Whoever had done so would be killed for such, guaranteed.


Readying to push himself through the wall, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. Who cared whether or not this had been the truth? He was about to find out, either way. Throwing every single thought away, the soldier leaped through the barrier between Chemin L'Espoir and the underwater kingdom.


Finally in the underwater kingdom, relief soon washed over the chimera at the sight before him. Not single speck of fog anywhere, the chimera held back the urge to cheer. He was finally free from the wretched horrors. Surely, everything from here on out would be easy street. But, such had been an astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.


Feeling a heavy wave of foreboding doom, the early adult flinched. He did not know why, but he knew something bad was about to happen. Attempting to shake it off, the soldier kept moving forward. He had to have been imagining it, or sure. Perhaps, just maybe, Zinn's toxins had just been in the air.


But, as the early adult kept pressing on, the malicious feelings would not cease, even for a moment. Had someone been hiding here? He couldn't help but feel there had been someone else lurking here besides the usual residents who resided within the area. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. Maybe it was just a rogue monster or two. Surely, it had been nothing to worry about.


Such feelings of foreboding had only gotten stronger. Someone had to have been watching him, for sure. Shaking it off, the hyena kept running. Perhaps, if he were to go off towards the opposite direction, the eyes on him would vanish. Resolute on his decision, the chimera flipped the script.


Gaze dying upon the battlefield, the early adult's heart beat hard and fast in his chest. Slapping his right palm over his left one, the hyena took a moment to breathe. He had been running far too much today, for sure. Slowing down his walking speed, on question loomed as he could see the frog and alligator duo within his line of damaged sight.


Zinn and Peltro, why had they been regarded as legends in the first place? What legend could they have possibly been? The Legend of the Poisonous Frog and Alligator? That had hardly sounded like a myth in any capacity. This had to have been a gag order, for sure.


Gap closing, the early adult tapped on the alligator's scaly shoulder. Party of two turning towards him, the early adult gave eye contact. Zinn looking ready to blow a gasket, the hyena backed two steps away. Had he come at the wrong time? But, they soon cooled their jets. Whatever that meant. He had heard some drunkards say such phrase in Mondstadt from time to time.


Stranger walking around for over an hour, Zinn could feel a vein pop inside them. Why had there been someone here right now of all times? Had Vidame and Domini banished someone they did not like here again? But, they soon cooled their jets. Oh. It's just that dude again. Whatevs. They would rescind their momentary anger for now.


"Oh, it's just you again, ribbit," Zinn said, croaking. "Ya here to investigate something?"


"Obviously, Zinn!" Peltro exclaimed. "Why else would he be down here?"


"Ya never know, Peltro!" Zinn responded. "He could be down here for somethin' else, so I gotta ask, ribbit!"


Frog and alligator chimeras arguing amongst themselves for a moment, the early adult let out a groan, for a moment. Some things never changed. If he knew one thing, and one thing for certain in life, it's that these two fought every single breathing second of their lives.


Shouting matches soon ceasing, eyes had soon been on him once again. Giving the siblings a nod, the hyena placed his hands out in front of him. Gloves out in front of him, the soldier spelled out the sentence, do you know anything about the legend regarding the poison frog and the alligator? But, immediately upon ending such sign, the duo looked as though he had grown two heads. Had they not understood what he was asking? He supposed such could be the case. Not everyone knew, or cared enough to learn sign language. But, he had soon been proven wrong in a matter of moments.


"Yer askin' us if we're underwater legends?" Zinn asked, annoyed. "Get outta here with 'dat nonsense! We ain't no such thing!"


"For once, I agree with Zinn!" Peltro shouted, irritated. "Archons, can't believe I said that. If the sky falls tomorrow, I called it!" It then let out the fakest cough in the world. "Anyhoo, who told you that? Whoever told you that is wrong. We might be highly toxic, but that is hardly the grounds for a legend. So, shove it."


Anger coming his way, the early adult shook with a fervor. He could shove it? If he had asked them something that bothered them, he would apologize right away. Had they been asked this question before? Bowing his head in apology, the hyena kept his head downward. But, he had soon been told to cut it out.


"Geez, ya can stop apologizing now, kay? Lift yer head already!" Zinn exclaimed, croaking. "Is dat da only reason you came here, croak?"


Shaking his head, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Spelling out Mary Anne's name with his fingers, the duo both let out a collected sigh. Had he said something to annoy them further? He had definitely struck multiples nerves in the span of a few minutes that would never heal.


"You want to see Mary Anne?" Peltro asked, sighing. "Fine, we'll take you to her. But, if this is about another one of your so called 'legends', she'll likely have the same answer as we do."


Zinn and Peltro standing in front of him, the party of two had begun to lead the way. Opening the door to the palace, the soldier prepared himself. Would Mary Anne truly have the same answer as the frog and alligator chimeras? He hoped such would not be the case. If he were to fail to gather any information, he would pay the price for it, guaranteed.


Dropping through the door as if it were an invitation, the familiar ruins had soon been reached once more. But, the hyena did not know why, but he could feel a sense of foreboding doom once again. Had there been someone else around the area lurking? He swore he could hear strange mechanical footsteps somewhere.


Moving through the first floor of the ruins, the hyena turned his head towards the right. Where had those extra footsteps been coming from? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He had to have been imagining it. Why would there be anyone else here? This kingdom was barren, desolate.


Pressing on through the second floor, the soldier shivered. No matter how hard he tried, the sense of doom would not leave him. Someone else was here, guaranteed. But, he shook his head. It was nothing more than a monster or two. He needed to stop thinking about it. Pushing such thoughts away, the traversal continued.


Cruising through the third corridor and beyond, the party of three had soon been right back where they started. Mary Anne's house not reached, the soldier tilted his head. They were back in the library again? Had Zinn gotten everyone lost? How typical of them. But, he supposed that's how it usually ended up down in the secret palace.


Staring over once more, the soldier could not help but ponder. The real Annapausis, did it change locations every single time one were to come into the labyrinth? Perhaps, just maybe, that was the case. Keeping such fact in mind, he kept following the frog and alligator behind in silence.


Looping back around for the second time, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Just where had Mary Anne's house been? Why had it been so difficult to find again? Something had been wrong with this picture. But, the chimera kept going from room to room. Surely, after some time, they would reach the right path.


But, such never came. Coming back to the same entrance time and time again, the early adult could feel a wave of frustration flow through him. Why was this happening again? Hadn't Zinn and Peltro been acquainted with Mary Anne? Surely, if they wished to visit her, they would allow them to come.


Fourth loop coming in clutch, the early adult prepared the white flag. What was the point in trying to reach her anymore? No matter how many times he would try with the duo's guidance, they would never reach there. The looping corridors, maybe that was the true legend of Annapausis. But, as he prepared his surrender, Zinn interrupted his food cart of thought.


"Mary Anne probably doesn't want visitors, ribbit," Zinn said, croaking.


"Oh, really is it that obvious, Zinn?" Peltro asked sarcastically. "Well, I'm not playing this game anymore." As it said such, it cupped its alligator hands around its mouth. "We'll just have to demand she let us see her."


"Peltro, are ya crazy?!" Zinn asked. "That won't work!"


Zinn and Peltro arguing amongst themselves once again, the hyena covered his ears. Here they go again, shouting at each other. Why couldn't these two ever stop and just listen to one another for once? But, he knew that would never happen. These two would never be civil. Did they get a thrill off arguing? But, his thoughts had soon been interrupted by an even louder shout.


"Mary Anne, it's us, Zinn and Peltro!" Peltro screamed. "Let us in!" And, as if by magic, a water current soon appeared.


Ring of water out in front of them, the early adult rose his eyebrow. How did this get here? How peculiar. Zinn and Peltro hopping in almost immediately, the chimera backed two steps away. Frog and alligator chimeras thrusted forward through a large jet scream, the jelly was kicking in.


Taking a long deep breath, the early adult leaped into the ring of water. Body propelled like a firework hitting the sky, the early adult closed his eyes for a moment. Had he reached a new stream? But, the hyena perished the thought. Mary Anne had just created a pathway, nothing more.


Reaching Mary Anne's house, the blue haired woman had a disconcerting look on her face. Seeing such, the hyena's heart skipped more than two beats. She must have really not want visitors. Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to turn around right now before it was too late.


"I told you two the other day that I don't want any visitors," Mary Anne said, arms crossed around her waist.


"Yer right, and we apologize, for 'dat," Zinn replied in an apologetic tone. "But, this fella has a question for ya." They pointed their frog hand over at the hyena.


Mary Anne's eyes soon on him, the soldier let out a gulp. Would Mary Anne even know about the legend of the hidden forest house? Maybe she wouldn't. But, he knew he had no choice but to ask her. Taking a deep breath, the hyena prepared himself to ask the forbidden question.


"Do you know the legend of the real Annapausis, ma'am?" the hyena asked forbiddingly. But, he had gotten a quick answer that shattered walls.


"No!" Mary Anne shouted. "If that is the only of which you came, get out!" As she said such, the soldier could feel himself be pulled away.


Pushed outside the forest houses walls, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. What was that about just now? The chimera did not know why, but she had seem incredibly irritated the entire time. Zinn and Peltro exiting, as well, he had soon been informed they would escorting him out.


But, upon returning to the ruins, a thick deep blue fog had reached the area. Seeing such, the chimera let out a groan. Why had the fog come back to haunt him? Couldn't it have left him alone? Great, just fantastic, now he would be lost for hours. But, such had been only the beginning.


Hearing the sound of wooden footsteps as the party of three moved through the thick blue mist, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. What were those unusual footsteps? Whatever they were, they were close by. Party of two in front of him stopping their tracks for a moment, the early adult gazed at their backsides. Had they heard it, too?


"Great, da fog came here, too, croak!" Zinn shouted. "We should tell it to eat a toadstool!"


"And what's that going to do?" Peltro asked. "It's not like fog is alive!"


"Whatevs, Peltro!" Zinn shouted. "We need ta get outta here!" But as they said such, there had been a new visitor. "What's dat puppet doin' here? I'm growin' warts all over my back!"


"Zinn, that's disgusting! I don't care about your stupid warts!" Peltro shouted. "Anyhoo, it's about to attack! Get your poison ready!"


"On it, ribbit!" Zinn exclaimed.


Large wooden puppet with the face of a man on it dangling from the ceiling letting out a giggle, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Where had this monster come from all of a sudden? But, he knew he hardly had any time to waste. He had to battle this creature right now.


Gloves making it impossible to grip the claymore provided, the soldier let out a sigh. He supposed he would have no choice but to use his underwater powers, for a moment. Pressing the aquatic blade button, the early adult readied himself for action. But, as he had done so, almost nothing happened.


Aquatic blade barely doing anything, the early adult's eyes twitched. His underwater powers, had they been useless here? How terrifying. He was a useless piece of battle waste. Attempting to use the jellyfish head explosive next, nothing happened once again.


Attempting to use every single power bestowed upon his glove, not a single option work. Waving the white flag, the early adult stepped back. There was nothing he could do. He was absolutely useless here, for sure. Zinn letting down their poison, the puppet had disintegrated into nothing. Fog moving away a little, indignant eyes had come his way.


"Get outta here!" Zinn shouted. "Mary Anne, open up da exit towards da surface! We want dis dude gone!" As they said such, a water ring appeared. "In ya go!"


Pushed into the upstream, the early adult let out a scream. What was happening? Why were they kicking him out of here all of a sudden? Surrendering himself, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Returning towards the surface, the world of blue fog returned to him once more.


Recalling he had to head off to Merusea Village to give the poison neutralizers to the denizens down below, the early adult prepared himself for the leap of faith. Sudden aquatic wall appearing out of nowhere, the early adult sighed. He supposed he could make use of this blockade to reach the other side.


Jumping from one side to another, the Beryl Region had been reached after about twenty minutes of jumping. Blue mist about as bad as it had been in the previous area, the chimera prepared himself to get lost once again. Powering his way through the south for awhile, the visibility had only begun to get worse.


Reaching the entrance towards Merusea Village after about an hour of getting lost, the chimera's diving suit and mind had soon been synched together once more. But, it had not been clear waters down below in the village, either. Mist following him wherever he were to go, the hyena let out a growl.


Village covered in fog as well, the soldier could barely see the sea lion prankster duo turning their heads. Moving towards them, they misty figures turned towards him. Preparing himself for any unintelligible questions, the early adult kept his ears open. But, if either of them were about to pull a prank, he would listen no further.


"Dude, what's going on?" Brume asked, puzzled.


"Yeah, bro, what's up with this smoky stuff?" Eclater asked, even more puzzled.


Letting out a momentary sigh, the early reached for his back pockets. Tubes placed into their flippers, the party of two looked at one another like their hand flippers had switched places with their tail. Gazing down at the disaster mitigation words printed down below, the hyena shook his head. Were they unable to read what it said?


"Bro, what are these?" Brume asked puzzled. "We can't read big human words very well!"


"Yeah, bro!" Eclater chimed in. "You gotta give it to us straight!"


Shaking his head, the early adult made a loud boom noise for almost everyone to hear. Crossing his two index fingers into an x-shape, he shook his head again. Would this be enough to convey to them the concept of disaster mitigation? He had hoped so. Using his voice for these people was almost out the question.


"So these thingies will get rid of that blue smokey stuff?" Brume asked. A nod had immediately come his way.


"Great, if it can get rid of they kooky smoke, we gotta use them right away!" Eclater exclaimed.


Sea lion pranksters looking like they were about ready to work, the early adult prepared himself to head back towards the circus. These two would be fine. He needn't stay here a moment longer. Returning to the surface, the chimera gazed upward, for a moment.


Fog looking about as dark as the nighttime sky, the hyena's knees buckled. It had been nighttime already? He had to go back to the Court of Fontaine right away. Dashing off towards Marcotte Station for hours on end, he had soon reached the capital city once more. But, an annoyance like no other had awaited him in the fog.


"There you are!" Earl exclaimed, out of breath. "Mademoiselle Ginger told me that if I see you to take you home!"


Dragged towards the Congele boutique, the early adult let out a groan. Why was Earl waiting for him? He could go pay for a hotel room and sleep there. But, he knew if he let go of Earl's hand he would grab it right back. It best to not start any fights. Taken down the stairs and into the apartment, everyone had been waiting. Seeing such, the chimera sighed. Did he really need this many eyes on him? He did not.


"You finally found him?" Marquis asked.


"In that ugly outfit?" Esquire asked. "Get him out of my sight!"


"Sorry, Esquire! I'll take him to his room right away!" Earl responded. As he said such, the chimera had been hauled off to his temporary room.


Door closed behind him, the early adult let out a yawn. Fat, blubbery suit and uniform removed, the early adult crawled into the uncomfortable bed. Weaponized hairpins and earrings put aside, as well, the hyena's eyes closed as soon as his head hit the pillow. But, as the world of sleep readied to invite him back in, one final question looped on repeat.


Why was the fog so thick?


***


"This is not good. According my
Hypothesis charts, the fog is
Evidentially getting worse. I,


Folu, have no idea what to do about this.
Onwards towards the data.
Ghh, my, my, there


Is some errors in the calculations.
Shucks, I did them as Rabiu said the anomalies were structured.


Guess I am not quite well versed in strange weather patterns.
Even so, I really aught
To learn more about them.
These patterns of the fog are not normal.
I also highly suspect they might be gas.
No, mayhaps not. I have heard most
Gasses do not have any color, or odor and cannot be seen.


Why am I getting this sense
Of dejavu? Strange, I do not
Recall saying this before.
So what is this rather overwhelming feeling I am
Experiencing? I do not know, and whatever it is, I do


Not like it one bit. Well, I guess
Oluchi had said the same thing as I did.
Well, Rabiu also did, but he usually makes the most errors out of all of us!


Uh, maybe I really aught to stop bullying him before it
Gets to a point where there's irreversible damage to
His self esteem. Well, that's mostly
Oluchi's fault, anyway. She's the one who is constantly picking
On him the most out of all of us, you know? Well,
Oh, well, we tried to get her to stop. Que sera, sera."


Waking up the next morning, hands had been shaking him through the covers for minutes on end. Jolted awake, the early adult reached his glasses. Marquis and Esquire letting go of him, the chimera let out a groan. Could this family be any more annoying? Why couldn't they let him sleep for five more minutes?


"That ugly boss of yours is here!" Esquire shouted. "Tell her to brush that disgusting ginger hair of hers!" But Marquis soon jumped.


"Hurry up and go talk to her!" Marquis shouted. "She isn't welcome here!"


Party of two stomping out, the early adult rolled his eyes to the ceiling. And why were these two still here? Weren't they supposed to be gone by now? Putting his uniform back on and grabbing his satchel, the early adult returned to the main room in the apartment. Malika drumming her fingers on the table, and Baron messing with their monocle, a racket soon kicked up.


"Hurry up and say what you need to tell him, and get out of my apartment," Malika said in a cold voice.


"Apologies, sir, right away," the ginger said in an apologetic tone. But her collar had soon been grabbed.


"You weren't listening at all when we spoke to you, did you?" Baron said in a low voice. They then squeezed the Fatui's collar even tighter. "That is ma'am to you. Or do you have selective hearing? Typical of an unintelligent soldier like yourself." As they said such, they twirled their curly strand of hair.


"My utmost apologies s-, I mean ma'am," the ginger Fatui responded, bowing her head on the table. She then lifted herself up. "Soldier, go to Elton Trench right away and look into the legend of the undersea penguins!" She slapped her hand on the table. "Look for a domain discovered down there, as well!" Her collar had then been grabbed once more.


"Are you done?" Baron asked.


"I'm done," the ginger Fatui responded, voice shaking.


"Get out of our apartment," Baron said, grabbing ahold of her collar even harder. "Now."


Ginger Fatui exiting the area, the soldier blinked. Baron was not a person to be messed with whatsoever. If he were in their presence, he needed to be on his best behavior, for sure. Malika turning towards him with a concerned look on her face, the chimera blinked. Why was she giving him that look?


"You don't have to go down to Elton Trench if you don't want to, darling," Malika said in a soft tone. "I know it's been pretty difficult out there."


Shaking his head, the hyena placed his hands out in front of him. Did he have a choice in the matter? He did not. Signing that he had to go, warnings had come his way to proceed with caution. Exiting the apartment, the soldier headed back towards the Aquabus. Tour guide again informing him it was dangerous, the chimera sighed. He already knew this. Did he really have to hear it again?


Aquabus reaching the halfway point after about twenty minutes, the heavy fog had settled in in a matter of moments. Seeing such, the soldier groaned. How could this weather have still been here? How annoying. He was going to have to deal with this again. Melusine telling him the fog is toxic, the hyena gulped as he readied to drop himself downward towards the ground below.


Wind glider deployed behind him, it had come to the hyena's attention immediately. Had the fog been deeper and bluer here? What a mess. Why had it been even worse today? He needed to find a way to clear it out as soon as possible. But, he supposed, try as he might, that would take awhile.


Reaching the ground, the early adult swore he could see Bain, Kali, Aigre, the Demoiselle and her bodyguards running around the area near the beach. Seeing such, a hundred questions raced around in the chimera's head. What had this group been running towards? Why were they chasing someone? Girls all masked, the soldier followed them for a moment, but what awaited was a shock to behold.


Party of four chasing some army of puppets, the chimera backed ten steps away. What was going on here? Where had these marionettes come from? Had the magician been doing some sort of trick? But, the hyena shook his head. Why was he thinking of him at a time like this? But, as he had been lost in thought, he had accidentally brushed up against Aigre. Such, however, had been cut out by other screams.


"We have to fight these puppets!" Bain shouted at the top of her lungs.


"Um, yeah, we probably should, um, do that," Kali responded.


"These meanie puppets are going down!" Aigre shouted. But, she had soon felt something smack into her, whammo! "Owie!" Turning around through the thick meanie fog, she could feel this itching sensation of bugs flowing. "Mauve!!! Watch where you're going, okay?!?!" But, the Demoiselle soon added her own voice to the mix.


"Hey, Aigre, that's a little rude, don't you think?" the Demoiselle asked. "No one can see anything right now!"


Bowing an apology. The entire crowd of ladies, sans Aigre had told the chimera to be careful. Heeding the warning, the soldier put on his diving equipment. But, he knew before he were to take the trip down, he had to prepare himself for the worst. Vidame and Domini, there was absolutely no way they would cooperate with him. And, he knew they were give him a whole new world of violence any second now.


Mind and diving suit synched up to one another, the early adult dropped downward. But, immediately upon reaching the ocean, the blue fog struck back. Seeing such, the early adult grit his teeth. Not this again. Why was it back? Where had this trash come from? He was quite tired of seeing it. It needed to be cleansed right now.


Having his diving suit thrust him northward, the early adult let out a groan. Why hadn't he had some sort of equipment to light the path for him? Unbelievable. This had to have been his worst mission yet. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Why was he complaining? Such action was forbidden.


Moving towards the left, the soldier let out a sigh. Why did he have to look for the undersea penguins? In what world would they ever agree to do anything, let alone confirm a rumor stated about them? It was simply not happening. Whoever made up these legends had to have been thinking about something else, for sure. This one was far from it.


As the soldier's diving suit kept thrusting him forward with automatic movement, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just his imagination, or had something else been following him? Shaking his head, the hyena kept going. There was no one else here, for sure. He was overreacting.


But, as the early adult kept heading off towards the northern direction, his suspicions had been correct. Multiple wooden marionettes soon surrounding him through the fog, the soldier backed multiple steps away. What were these doing down here? He needed to take care of them right away.


Dropping down a jellyfish head explosive, the first puppet had been blown to smithereens. Fog clearing away a smidgeon, the early adult had come to a quick, but haphazard conclusion. These marionette creatures had been tied to this toxic fog. There was no way it couldn't have been the truth.


Coming across another wooden doll, the soldier let out a sigh. And, where had this one come from now? But, he supposed the fog had continued to obscure their existence from him. Dropping down another jellyfish head explosive, the next enemy had become scattered pieces across the water.


Attempting to move along, further wooden doll armies had soon stopped him in his tracks, seeing such, the hyena dropped down the denotator for what felt like the thirtieth time today. But, the soldier shook his head. Maybe there had been an extra zero in that number. Pressing the button, a few members of the army still stood.


Final denotator dropped, the last of the doll army had been out of the equation. Fog clearing up ever so slightly, the early adult puffed a breath of relief. The waters were clearer. He could see what was in front of him again. A miracle to be had, for sure. Diving suit thrusting him further north, the hyena swore he could hear familiar angry shouts up a head.


Pressing the turbo button, the hyena's body had been thrusted forward at lightning speed. Spotting Vidame and Domini beating the living waters out of multiple wooden puppets one after another with their scythe and chain whip, the soldier attempted to turn off towards the other direction. Oh, no, they were boiling with rage. He was done for.


Puppets all destroyed one after another, eyes of pure rage had come his way. Seeing such, the chimera's heart skipped more than three beats. Why did they look even more angrier than usual today? He was about get what's coming to him, guaranteed. Domini whirring up his chain whip, the chimera surrendered. He was about to be slapped down hard by Bludgeoning Angel Domini-chan. Whatever -chan meant, he had only heard such a word used in Inazuma.


Seeing Ritchie Rich waltz down here like he owned the joint, Domini whirred up his chain whip. How dare Ritchie Rich think he can come down here after all the problems he's caused. This fog is his fault. These crimes would not go unpunished. Ritchie Rich would pay for these crimes with his whole body.


Ritchie Rich coming towards them as if he thought he was allowed a friendly space to just chat, Vidame got her scythe ready. Who did Ritchie Rich think he was coming down here, acting all innocent? He was responsible for this fog, and he was one million years ahead of himself if he thought she, in any universe, would ever let him get away with this villainy. That was it. He's getting a nice little reminder on why he's not welcome down here!


"How dare you send your puppets down here, Ritchie Rich!" Domini shouted. "You'll pay for what you did!"


"Yeah, Ritchie Rich!" Vidame shouted. As she said such, she swung her scythe. "How dare you act all innocent!"


Penguin duo swinging their weapons at him, the hyena had his diving suit move in a rapid manner. Here these two go again, blaming him for every single thing. He had done nothing of the sort. Why were these two always blaming him for everything? Continuing to dodge their every attack, the hyena turned out the rest of their shouts. Question accidentally blurting itself out, he swore heads would roll any second.


"Do either of you know about the legend of undersea penguins?" the hyena accidentally blurted out. But, he soon stopped himself from speaking further. Why did he say that? There's no way they'd ever answer him.


"Why would we ever tell you anything, Ritchie Rich?!" Vidame shouted, swinging her scythe. "Fuggeddabout it. We ain't telling you a thing!"


"Yeah, Ritchie Rich! Don't ask us anything, ever!" Domini shouted. As he said such, he whirred up his chain whip. "Go find something else to destroy!"


Having his diving suit go on turbo, the soldier had begun searching for the domain. Why did he think for even a moment these two would ever cooperate with him? He knew that would never, not even in alternative universe version of himself where he had been a Fatui Harbinger. But, the early adult threw such thought away. Where was he getting these wild ideas from? There was no way that would ever be a pathway that existed. Not even in a different timeline or world.


Coming across a strange door peering from one of the shipwrecks after four hours of searching through the fog, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Was this finally it, the domain he had been searching for? Blinding white light overtaking him, he had come to the quick and immediate conclusion such had been the case.


Finding himself in a large destroyed temple, the early adult tilted his head. Where in the world was he? The soldier had no idea, but wherever the domain had taken him to, this place had to have been long forgotten and ancient. Knowing it was his best interest to go forward and explore, the area.


Locating a long bridge upon the walkway, the early adult prepared himself for the long walk ahead. Moving forward, the soldier swore he could feel something unsteady beneath his feet. Bridge crumbling as he moved, the hyena jumped towards the left. The crosswalk was breaking off? He needed to hurry.


Jumping off towards the next bridge, the early adult ran as if his life would give out. Crossing also breaking apart, he leaped from side to side. Why was this place so fragile, what was going on here? Something wasn't right here, in the slightest. But, everything would continue to go south fast.


Spotting an entire room with an army of wooden marionettes dancing from their strings up above, the early adult let out a sigh. There more of these monsters down here? Where in the world did they come from? How strange. Whoever put these creatures in here had to have quite the puppet fixation.


Snapping himself out of it, the gloves were off. Fatui issued greatsword in his hands, the hyena slashed the blade forward with full force. Puppets one after another becoming nothing but dust upon the wind, the early adult let out a huff as the fights continued.


Final set of puppets soon destroyed, the early adult had begun running. Floor trying to crumble, the chimera leaped. He needed to reach the end of this temple before it was to see total collapse. There was not much time left. He had to run, speed, kachow. But, the early adult threw such last word away. Where did that last one come from? He wasn't thinking straight right now. It was almost as if, a god from outside Teyvat determined what he was thinking. But, he knew that was impossible. He wasn't some character in a horror adventure story.


Soon reaching a very peculiar room, multiple plagues had been hung up upon the wall. Seeing such, the early adult stepped towards them. Observing the first one for a moment, the picture of the Hydro Archon weeping on her throne appeared within the chimera's damaged field of heterochromatic vision.


Seeing such object, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Why was the Hydro Archon weeping on here throne? But, he soon looked at the next one. Lifted up by her own people, the scratched his diving suit. None of this made any sense at all. What was going on here? But, the last one had been even more confusing.


Spotting a plaque with a flower on it with runic writing, the early adult could not make sense of anything at all. What did this have anything to do with the other ones? Not able to come to any sort of conclusion, the early adult stepped towards the domain's exit. It was no use, he wasn't coming up with anything. It was time to go. Blinding light soon engulfing him, he closed his eyes.


Cruising through the fog, the early adult sighed. If only there was a big starling that could flag its wings and blow all this fog away. But, the hyena shook his head. Why would something like that ever be possible? That was something that only existed in fantasy and magic world transportation stories.


Reaching the Aquabus after four hours of walking, the hyena reached the capital city of Fontaine slower than he could have ever anticipated. But, the early adult knew such was show it would be for quite awhile. He needed to get used to it, for the time being. Stepping foot in the Court of Fontaine, yet another penguin waited for him. Malika adorning a face mask with a strawberry print, gloved hands had been linked to his arm in seconds.


"You were out pretty late, darling," Malika said in a tired tone. "It's dangerous out here. I'm taking you back home."


Escorted back towards the boutique, information had come his way. Malika informing him the air quality has gotten so low the toxins could penetrate masks, the early adult's heart skipped a beat. How could it have gotten so bad so quickly? What was going on in Fontaine? Not a single thing was adding up here.


Guided to his temporary room, the door had soon been closed behind him. Letting out a yawn, the soldier removed his weaponized hairpins and earrings. Diving suit undone, and everything else put away, the hyena placed himself under the temporary covers. But, one last thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain as the tormented land of dreams dragged him back in.


How much worse has the fog gotten?


***


Waking up in the middle of the night, the soldier's heart had begun to beat hard and fast in his chest. Rhythm beating out of control, the soldier let out a scream. The bat, it was racing, leaping, doing bounds. Chest as hard as a rock, the tears had begun to stream down his face. Loud feet stomping in, shouts had come his way.


"What's wrong, ugly?" Esquire asked annoyed.


"And why are you shouting in the middle of the night?!" Marquis asked, groaning. "That's very hideous of you right now!" But, Malika soon stepped in.


"Don't call him ugly. Could you two leave the room, please?" Malika asked. She then headed towards Siorc. "Is your heart beating too fast, darling? I am not a doctor, but I'll try to help calm it down, okay?" She then placed her hand upon his chest. "Try to take deep breaths with me darling, okay?"


Hand on his chest, the early adult attempted to match the pace of Malika's breaths. Feeling a wave of calmness flow through him shortly after, the soldier closed his eyes. Heartbeat dissipating into normalcy after about ten minutes, the world of sleep was ready to claim him once more.


Deep breaths, deep breaths.


***


"I, Sani have some very
Terrible news to share with everyone.


It has come to my attention
Some poisonous fog has


All but poisoned the air.
This isn't good. And,


It gets even worse.
There might be
Some lingering effects.


Perhaps I should have researched this sooner.
Everything could have been
Avoided. Well, guess that's my fault. But, I
Know Oluchi and Folu will blame Rabiu. But, I will


Not be doing that.
Oluchi and Folu, you both need to stop
With that joke. And, I should, too. Ah, oh well, time to clean up this fog."


Waking up the next morning, demands had come his way almost immediately. Ginger Fatui commanding him to head for the lake underneath the Weeping Willow tree, the chimera let out a sigh. Not again with this. Hadn't he already investigated the sea gazelle legend? What was the point in looking into that one again? But, he had soon been visited by three others.


Rabiu, Gwendolyn, Lonan standing by his bedside, the hyena removed himself from the covers. Why were they here? He didn't want to deal with anything else right now, except for the fog to clear out. But, he threw such thoughts away. That was a rude thing to think. Whatever these three wanted, it was best to listen.


"Morning, black fish steak bro," Lonan greeted, waving. "We were about to ask you the same question your boss did just now."


"Um, uh, yeah, we were going to ask you to come to the lake underneath the willow tree too, actually," Rabiu added. But Gwendolyn soon interrupted.


"Who cares about that rumor the sea gazelle have gills instead of lungs?" Gwendolyn asked, rolling her eyes. "You men care about the stupidest trash."


"Um, Siorc's boss does?" Rabiu asked, lips quivering. "You're free to leave if you don't care, though."


"I will, then!" Gwendolyn screamed, storming out of the apartment.


Removing himself from underneath the covers, the early adult turned towards Rabiu. Had the researcher jackal gained a backbone? Good for him. He didn't know why, but he couldn't help but feel proud of him, at this very moment. Uniform soon on, Lonan's eyes had soon been on him.


"We're heading through Foggy Forest Path, black fish steak bro," Lonan explained. His wings lost a few feathers as he said such. "We've got a job to do! Don't worry 'bout the fog. My wings can clear some of that away."


Lonan informing him he would be passing through Foggy Forest Path with Rabiu and he, the hyena shrugged. He supposed he didn't mind working together with these two. Rabiu warning him he needed to double mask, the chimera had been handed a strawberry print cloth. Seeing such, he let out a sigh. If only he had brought the matching hairpin and earring set. Getting ready to depart, a series of pouts had come Rabiu's way.


"You're taking my future husband on a date again?" Earl pouted in a joking tone. "No fair!"


"Um, uh, who said he's your future husband?" Rabiu asked in a serious tone. "Uh, this isn't a date, um. Siorc, Lonan and I are working."


"I want to come, too!" Earl exclaimed. But, he had soon been halted in his tracks.


"How boorish are you?" Baron asked, rolling their eyes. "It's highly toxic out there."


"I'll be poisoned with love, it's worth it!" Earl barked back.


"Um, Earl, I don't have enough health robots to fix you in an emergency, so please don't come along," Rabiu said in a serious tone.


Earl pouting, everyone had been off to the races. Fog even thicker and more potent than the day prior, the early adult held back the urge to gag. What was that stench? Something was wrong here. Tough ride upon them, the group had only begun to run faster as Marcotte Station had been left behind.


But, as the trio continued to move, the fog had only gotten colder. Where had this draft come from all of the sudden? It was a warm autumn day. How very unusual. Reaching the Foggy Forest, a surprise amongst everything took the woods by a cloud storm.


Army of puppets everywhere the eyes could see, the hyena could feel his heart drop into his stomach. The puppets were still here? Who, or what was controlling them? Creatures dancing, Rabiu's daggers and shield, and Lonan's feather made crossbow were ready. Claymore out in front of him, the fight was on.


Army of puppets destroyed after about one-hundred-thirty strikes, the party of three dashed off towards the Weeping Willow Tree. Fog beginning to fade, the hyena blinked. He sees now, his hypothesis was correct. These strange puppets were behind all this. Diving equipment on, everyone went down towards the underwater cave beneath the willow tree.


Reaching the deep depths of the area, the underwater sea gazelles stared at the party of three as if they had thirty heads. Letting out a scream, their antlers had been charged and ready. Lonan sighing, he grabbed ahold of such appendages. Rabiu grabbing ahold of the opposite chimera's horns, the early adult's eyes grew wide as they grew weaker. Had that area been their weak spot?


"Apologies, we're alert now," Damla apologized in a tired tone. "Let me guess, you three are here to ask about the legend about us, right?" As co asked such, co let out a sigh. "We'll tell you about us, but tell us about the fog that cleared out just now first."


"Oh, uh, um? I think I can explain a little?" Rabiu responded in a questioning tone. "Those were some poorly made abyss puppets. They were programmed to summon fog, I think."


"I see, so, abyssal puppets, you say?" Firat asked, voice tired. "Well, fine, have at it. We'll tell you about ourselves. Ask away." As se said such, se let out a loud yawn. "But, please be quick. We want to sleep again. Forever, if possible."


Hearing what Rabiu said, the hyena groaned. Of course this was the work of the abyss again. When was it ever not? Were the gazelles behind this one, too? But, the chimera shook his head. These puppets were far too small for them to do such a thing. Maybe it had been someone else from the abyss this time. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted.


"Are you the two in the legend about the fawns who had their lungs changed to gills?" Lonan asked. But, what answer came was to the surprise of no one.


"Mhm, that's us," Damla said, yawning. "But I don't have anything else to tell you. Please, let us go back to sleep forever now."


"Sure, droplet. Nighty night," Lonan replied.


Hearing what Damla said, the early adult's mind raced a kilometer a minute. Co said what now? Cos lungs had been replaced with gills? He couldn't believe what he was hearing. How was this real? He had to be dreaming right now. But, he knew he wasn't. This was real. But, the soldier had soon heard a loud splash up above. Returning to the surface, not a single surprise awaited.


Kelebek and Izzet riding atop a huge blue dragon, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the sky. Of course they had to show up now of all times. Did they ever stop to think for once this was pointless? They had to have enough fun messing around by now? Dropping the reptilian creature down below, they both let out a shout.


"You have one last gift for him!" Kelebek shouted.


"Nyahahaha, have fun with this gift!" Izzet shouted.


Dragon oozing poison, the party of three sprung into action. Dragon not defeated after one-hundred-fifty strikes, the soldier huffed and puffed. Just how much vitality did this creature have, eight vitality bars stacked upon each other? Ridiculous. This had to end right now.


Enemy not slain from the daggers, arrows nor his claymore, the soldier groaned. This was a forced to be reckoned with, for sure. But, the early adult could feel determination flow through him enough to have a red heart appear in the battlefield. He could eliminate this dragon, mark hiss wordlessness.


Throwing his blade with all his might, the dragon had soon been slain after about forty more blows combined between the party of three. Abyssal gazelle duo waving their fists, the hyena rolled his eyes. Oh, boy, here it comes, time for revenge round thirty. A riveting experience.


"We will have our revenge!" Izzet shouted. But, as they said such, an arrow had been gifted to their stomach.


"He will get it for doing that!" Kelebek shouted at Lonan. As one said such, something clicked.


Abyssal gazelles gone, the fog had been completely gone. Seeing such, the early adult sighed. It was their doing all along again. When was it ever not? Lonan saying he knew it was their doing, the party of three readied to head back towards capital city of Fontaine. But, as they did such, the soldier's thoughts wandered.


As the capital city drew closer, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why were the gazelles constantly doing these dangerous acts? If they kept this up, Fontaine would be uninhabitable. Was that what they wanted? He knew that had to have been the case. What a horrible goal to strive towards, the lowest of the low.


Ginger Fatui dismissing him shortly after arriving at the Court of Fontaine, the soldier highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks, he had reached the soundproof room in ten minutes. Pacing around the room, for a moment, his thoughts wandered. Why were the abyssal gazelles doing something like this? This wasn't right. Should this get any worse, and the entire population of Fontaine could face extinction. But, he knew he had to tone his thoughts down. That was a bit overdramatic, for sure.


Letting out a yawn, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Closing his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow, the land of tormented dreams readied to pull him back in. But as the world of sleep claimed him for the evening, one final thought wrapped vines around the hyena.


The abyssal gazelles are getting worse.

 

[Palamon]

34. Fashion Week! Congele Versus: Trends, Corruption and Rivals

"Wait hold on.
Am I hearing this correctly?
I don't think I am.
This doesn't make sense.


How can this be?
Unless I am
Hearing this incorrectly.


What does the Agent mean work is cancelled?
How can this be?
Am I still dreaming.
That has to be it. That


Has to be what this is. A dream.
Or, maybe not
Looks like I am very awake. I
Do not understand.


Of all times to have
No work to speak of, this is


Weird. I am not ill, or anything, so what
Happened? Something came up? I
Am having a hard
Time believing that, to be honest. I


Don't know what happened
Oh, something came up?


You know, that's the first time I've ever heard
Of something coming
Up. So, it's a


Mystery to me.
Every day, everything is
Always unpredictable.
Now it's gotten harder.


What should I do?
One half week away, I'd
Rather have something to do. I
Know I can't just go back to sleep


If I do, Her Majesty will kill me
So, I mustn't be lazy, but I


Cannot think of
Anything I want to do.
Nothing is
Coming to me
Everything is blank.
Let me think of something,
Let me think of one thing.
Everything is blank I
Don't have a clue


What I wish to do with this sudden
Holiday! Think of something.
And nothing.
There is absolutely nothing


I can think of at this point of time.
Should I just go and look for


Hase? No. I have put that to
A halt. Right now, I
Probably should not search for her.
Perhaps there is something
Else I can do.
Now, what that might be
I don't know,
Nothing is coming to me
Guess it would be best to


Wander around Fontaine and find something to do.
However, maybe it's just to just
Aptly move on.
There isn't really much I


Can find to do
Ah, well,
Maybe I can look for some flowers.
Eh, I think I found all the ones Fontaine has to offer.


Ugh. Well, I guess,
Perhaps if I keep looking I will find something.


Everything will happen as is.
Xxxxxxxxx.
Ah, I feel like I'm short
Circuiting. What is
There to do when
Left out to dry?
You know what?


I will just wander.


Do I believe I will find something to do?
Obviously not, well


Not immediately,
Or anything, but I'm sure
There is something. I


Know that there is something somewhere.
Now, I suppose I should head
Over to the Court of Fontaine.
Will I find something to do? Doubt it,


But. It's best to keep looking.
Upwards and onwards.
There could be a show


Though, theater
Hasn't really been something
I find myself all that interested in?
No, that's not it.
Guess I just haven't ever had time to
See any shows.


So, for now I wander.
Even if I find nothing, and
Even if it's dull
Maybe I will find something. I


Know I will if
I keep looking.
Now, to the capital city I go.
Down the main street


Onto the land of the rich.
For now, I


Flee my nonexistent responsibilities
It will all be back
Shortly. So time to spend my non working
Hours wisely.
Yes, I must use them wisely. That is key."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a heavy burden, carrying the weight of the entire dream world's shoulders in one fell swoop. Such weight to bear had only gotten heavier as the years droned onward. The night before him was no different as well.


Before him had been a field of marigolds. They were bright, and gold, just like their name suggested they were. Seeing such flowers, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Where in the dream world could he have possibly been? He had never seen marigolds in the mortal, waking world.


But, such had not been the only peculiarity. Odd device surrounding the flowers, the hyena studied everything, for a moment. Tall instrument with golden pipes and white keys in multiple rows, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had these marigolds been the audience for a symphony or something?


Spotting a chair beside the flowers, seating himself, a note that read out, play me, the early adult tilted his dream head. Play it? Play what, exactly? If he had to play a musical score, there was no way he would be able to do such a thing. He was not musically inclined whatsoever. This was impossible, for sure.


Knowing that knowledge carried over to beyond reality, the early adult took a long, deep breath. Perhaps, just maybe, if he maneuvered around the keys, subconscious knowledge would flow through him. Piece of paper flopping down onto the floor, multiple points of terror screaming out at him, the young soldier's dream eyebrows twitched.


Multiple notes at on the page looking rather intimidating, the early adult could feel tension mounting. What did any of those notations upon the paper mean? Black unlettered gibberish staring back at him, the chimera scratched his head. Why hadn't there been any labels anywhere upon this sheet of Dendro creation? The dream world had been quite unkind, as usual.


Nothing there had a symbol in the corner with three fs, the chimera placed his fingers upon the keys. He has to play the piece very loudly? Why was that the case? Making a racket was not his forte. But, the soldier slapped his hand over his forehead. Did he just make a horrible pun? If there were a pungeon, he should be locked up in it, right away.


"Hurry up already!" the instrument shouted. "Start playing!"


Scream coming his way, the chimera flinched. Right, he was at the mercy of the dream world right now. He was bound to the rules; he had no choice but to comply. Score glowing, the chimera's fingers shook. Nerves bundling him up into a present, the world had become sketch and skewed like an abstract painting.


Dream hands squishing like jelly, the early adult fidgeted in place. What key was he supposed to press? Why were there so many rows of them? Instrument looking ready to scream at him once again, the chimera took a long, deep breath. Just go with the flow. Everything was water.


Hitting random keys one after another, cacophonous nonsense overtook the dream world. Continuing to hit multiple upon the board in front of him, nothing had been played in coherence. But, as he kept doing so, the soldier swore he could hear a loud clap of thunder from up above him.


"Wrong!" the instrument shouted.


Flames soon engulfing his index finger, the early adult let out a scream. Getting the score wrong had a consequence? If such were the case, he had to learn the right But such had not been the end of the terror. Circular blade coming down from the top of the pipes, a new racket overtook the area.


Circular blade vanishing, the charred digit plopped down into the hyena's lap. Main finger upon his hand a sacrifice to the instrument, tears streamed down his face. One finger down, nine to go. But, another shout had soon commanded the situation like an officer upon the battlefield.


"Stop whining, and try again!" the instrument shouted. As it said such, the pipes whistled.


Body shaking like a maraca, the hyena placed his hands back on the instrument. He had no choice, in the matter. He had to play the piped device's score, no matter what. Fingers hovering over the keys, everything blurred together into nothing. Random keys pressed again once more, shouts had been awarded to him for the third time of the dream day.


Circular saw blade claiming his middle finger as a prize next, the early adult shook. Two down, eight to go. How many more tries did he have left? He needed to play the notes on the score perfectly, or he was finger food. Eaten, spit out, garbage upon the floor. Trying again once more, the chopper returned with a vengeance.


Ring and pinky finger removed from the equation, doom loomed over the hyena's shoulder. Six fingers left. His chances were numbered. Instrument yelling at him to take this song seriously, the chimera flinched. Right, he had to take this seriously. What was he doing, playing whatever random key he wished? He was going about this all wrong, guaranteed.


Attempting once more, the early adult's right hand was chopped meat in a matter of dream seconds. Trying again, the cycle looped and repeated. Charred left thumb dropped onto his lap, a puddle of red stained his dream clothes. Subconscious world blurring, the early adult let out a pained huffed. His chances were numbered. Six down, four to go.


Errors piling themselves up, the chimera's pinky was the last digit standing. Finger twitching, the hyena's subconscious thoughts raced to the finish line. Nine fingers down, one to go. Final pinky soon dropping into the grass below, the early adult's dream eyes quivered. He had to keep playing, fingers or not. Head slamming down on the keys, a booming voice broke the sound barrier, in a matter of dream moments.


"Too bad! You failed!" the instrument screamed in a booming voice. "You will pay for your crimes against music!"


Instrument playing itself a tune of doom, a loud whistle shrieked. Large pitch black humanoid puppet dropping down upon the rows of keys, a scythe soon appeared in the creature's rotted palms. Weapon set ablaze, the early adult's dream heart skipped multiple beats. It was over, done, finished, the performance was ending.


Scythe swiping forward towards the soldier's stomach, the hyena's uniform had been set ablaze. Puppet continuing its rampage for minutes on end, the hyena fell backwards upon the nonexistent grass beneath him. Final blow soon delivered, the chimera's dream life flickered out of existence. Taking his final subconscious breath, one last thought played itself out.


Play correctly, or suffer the deadly consequences.


***


"So, we are still
Here in Fontaine at the moment,
Our moment in the spotlight has come.
Usually, Esquire and I are in Snezhnaya during this time of year, but
Looks like we're staying behind for a few weeks longer.
Do either of us mind? To that


I say no.


Because, at this particular moment
Everything has been quite rough back in our little


World of snow. But,
Of course, such is life living in subzero temperatures. World going in
Retrograde! Well, whatever.
Really, if you must know the truth, Esquire and
I have closed up shop back at home for awhile.
Earl and Kaiser may
Despise our presence here, but we lost


An entire week or so of
Business when that ugly Fatui had his
Obnoxious poison problem going on! Well, he is
Unpoisoned now so,
There shan't be any more distractions!


This will be the last week or so we are
Here. And after this, unless there
Is an intense blizzard, we
Shall return to our boutique back up north.


Yes, the last few weeks here in Fontaine are coming up
Eerily fast,
As you can see! We shan't
Remove ourselves
So quickly. We came here to help Malika


First and foremost!
As most business
Savvy people know, running a business
Has never been a cheap endeavor!
It is expensive! And
Opportunities of our beautiful selves coming they almost
Never come a knocking! But, more than that


We are here to compete with
Everyone else all the same! Last year, apparently, there had been
Eight boutiques across the entire continent
Knowingly competing with one another for some sort of


Prize. Now, what is that prize, might you ask?
Eh, I hope this doesn't sound too ugly, but
Recognition, of course! "Marquis, that's hardly a prize on its own."
Hah, Kaiser, what do you mean by
All that? Who needs a
Physical prize when people will be
Singing my name is praises? Marquis,


The beautiful penguin man, winner of this year's Fashion week!
Hah, is what I would say if I were competing against.
Even so, this is the opposite I and
Renting out my hand. "Renting out your hand?" Kaiser asked again. Did I just hear another annoying and ugly
Eep? How hideous of him!


I also don't come cheap!
So, you'd better prepare yourself!


Ah, I'm just kidding.


Look, I'm not some cheap
Old rent a cousin, or whatever.
That's not the case.


Obviously, I am helping out completely
For free. No Mora necessary. I


Can't charge for my assistance, how
Obscene to even think such a thing!
My and Esquire's outfits however, those have a
Price put on them!
Even though we will not be
Taking our outfits on the floor,
I will be sewing whatever
There is to sew. That,
I shall keep my word
On. There's a competition about to roar, and
No one else is winning!"


One day had passed since the chimera had investigated the underwater sea legends of Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred. Diplomatic affairs of nothing overtaking the day, twenty four hours passed without any incident having a chance to unfold.


The sound of morning alarm bells shrieked out like a banshee for almost everyone ears to fall victim to. As the alarm bells continued their rampage for minutes on end, hundreds of Fatui Soldiers groaned in a chorus for five more minutes. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially tormented slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the hyena quickly snapped himself out of it. There was no time to sit around in despair. Lifting himself up from the uncomfortable bed, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena's uniform melted onto his partially human person, the chimera could not help but wonder. What was with the musical themed dreams lately? He hardly knew anything about music world to ever be able to play a single one. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. It was just a dream. It was not real. He needed to stop thinking about the fabrications of his mind while in the world of sleep.


Work mode switch flipping upward, the early adult clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching black hearts in his hair and ears, the early adult stared off into space. Was turning his prized possessions into weapons truly what he wanted? Shaking his head, the early adult closed the lid. It was too late to go back into the past and change what had happened.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena stared down at the yellow-green orb. Should he start making use of his Vision more? Turning towards the steel walls, he threw such thought out the window. Such was not the best idea, for sure. The seven elements had to have finite uses. It would be best to not use up his remaining chances.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the early adult stared off into space. Just what would work entail today? Would he be doing diplomatic affairs of nothing once again? Diplomacy should die a dishonorable death. Adjusting his glasses, and buttons fixed, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


Hearing the louder than ever before sound of Fatui Agent boots stomped onward with a militaristic fervor, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. His workday of absolutely anything was about to begin. But, a wave of confusion flowed through him as the steps continued. Was it just his imagination, had the Agent been running? Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. There was no more time to think.


"Soldier, something has come up!" the Agent shouted. "Work has been cancelled for the next three days."


The hyena jumped five steps back upon hearing he was no longer working today. What did the Agent mean work was cancelled? Was this some kind of prank? It was a joke, it had to have been. Was he just trying to see if he was alert and attentive? That had to have been it, surely.


"This is not a prank, soldier, if that's what you're thinking," the Agent called out not on cue. "Do as you wish for the next few days. But, just know, at any given point, this could get rescinded." He then handed him a satchel. "Here are you supplies in case you head for Fontaine."


Agent soon leaving, the chimera walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. Where had this sudden time off come from? This had come out of left field and then some. What in the world should he do? His workdays had never, in his eight years of being a member of the Fatui been suddenly cancelled. His days off were planned, calculated, scripted with a capital t.


Continuing his pace about, ideas bounced around like a game of temari. Should he go look for Hase? But, the chimera shook his head. Perhaps, it was best to not do such, for the time being. She did not wish to be found. It was best to keep the one member search party on halt for now.


Mind wandering, the soldier stared at his rocky bed in the corner. He had nothing to do for the next few days. Perhaps, just maybe, he could catch a few zs. But, the hyena slashed such thought into bits. No way, absolutely not. His job being cancelled did not mean he could laze around in bed. He was the picture of health at this point in time.


Turning his attention back towards the wall, the early adult let out a sigh. Perhaps, it was best to walk around Fontaine for awhile to find something to partake in. Resolute on his decision, the soldier turned back around towards his uniform drawers. He should dress down for the occasion.


Uniform soon removed, the chimera reached for the final set of clothing upon the bottom of the wooden container. Silk shirt plopped into his hands it had soon covered his hideous scars. Day off outfit soon upon him, the hyena placed the satchel upon his backside. Teleport waypoint proxy orb opened into map form, the desert edges waypoint had soon been highlighted. Blinding light soon engulfing him, one thought wrapped vines around him.


What to do?


***


"I have come to a decision. I


Have decided!
At the end of the month, I will be moving to Petrichor. It is coming up
Very soon, my departure from the world of the poor and
East Slopes where I temporarily resided.


Maybe this was always for the best.
As I am starting to realize more and more, Gwendolyn
Doesn't like me.
Even though I am used to her constantly elbowing me


Maybe I should not have been. Eh, I'm a man,
You know, I can take her knee jerks just fine. You know, I


Don't say a peep about her doing that. I don't
Even say anything about her
Constantly talking about her problems with men.
I don't utter a word.
So, I guess it is time to start
Collecting my things.
I already told pops as the
Old saying goes: leaving the
Nest. Did that sound like a pun?


I am a hawk chimera, after all.


Well, anyway, I have made my decision. While
I am leaving the East Slopes and Fleuve Cendre behind, I will not completely
Leave altogether. I will still assist those
Left without any Mora.


Because I have been there, done that.
Everyone is born with nothing. No


Mora, on that scale, we are all equal.
One in the same. Circumstances do
Vary, not saying that
Is not true. Since
No two lives are ever the same,
Guess you could say mine has had its ups and downs,


Though, don't we all share that sort
Of experience? No one's life is


Perfect. Mine never was.
Every of my formidable years, I wished
To be normal. Not these wings,
Right as I say this,
It should be know that I have since grew out of that.
Can't control that I am a
Hawk chimera. My cousins cannot, either.
Our bloodline was already
Ruined sometime ago five hundreds years back


I know next to
Nothing about my bloodline and I never ask pops


To tell me. It is
Heretic knowledge, or something.
Eh. If I am better off not knowing, I


Could care less to learn further.
Okay, well, to be honest,
Maybe I am a little bit curious.
I shouldn't be, though.
Nothing ventured, nothing
Gained from learning the origins of the many generations before. I know very


Well all future descendants in my bloodline will never,
Ever be without wings. We will never,
Ever, not be bird people. I don't
Know why this is, and I
Shouldn't ever learn such forbidden knowledge.


Well, that's enough of this heavy
Introspective. So, as I said, in a couple weeks
Time, I will be moving.
Hmm, am I satisfied with how things turned out? I dunno, to be honest. It was per


Rab's suggestion that I considered getting
As far away as possible from my old life,
But, I could be
Straying too far away.


However, I am
Especially unbothered by this upcoming change.
Looks like Rab will be helping me
Pack. Maybe I should offer him a


Ticket into my new place?
He probably won't accept it, though.
Or, maybe it's just that I am not black fish steak bro.
Uh, not that I seem like that, or anything.
Going on a limb and saying
He doesn't either.


Oh, well, no prob, no prob.
For now, gotta focus on moving.


Can't be thinking about the world
Of attraction. Though, I feel like an
Utter fool still for asking Gwendolyn to pretend to be my girlfriend.
Right, well, that
Should be ending soon. And she will be
Ever free from me, like she seems to want. Kay, back to work."


Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, there was a beam of sunlight peeking through the streak of clouds. The Agent would not be nagging in his ear today to not teleport anywhere. The storm clouds were fading. But, he knew he could not break the rules, no matter what.


Walking off towards the edge of the cliff, the chimera deployed his wind glider from behind him. Dropping downward upon the ground beneath him, the soldier placed himself in the wooden vessel. Paddles awaiting him, the pushed the vehicle of human movement forward.


As the early adult pushed the vehicle of human power through the water, the hyena's ears perked. Was it just him, or had he been hearing a lot of noise from afar? But, the early adult kept his focus forward. He could not let his mind wander, or he would be outside the boat and floating across the water, in seconds.


Racket only getting louder as he reached Romaritime Harbor, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Was there some kind of party going on here? What an unusual place to host one, if so. Attempting to tune the noise out, the chimera walked off towards the stairwell.


But, as the hyena had done so, further noise overtook the area. Dark letting out a bark, the chimera jumped back. Had all this loud volume angered the poor, innocent creature? Humans had so little regard for their actions and what other species they might be harming.


"Apologies, young man," the dog's owner said. "Baguette's just hungry."


Hearing the dog's owner state his companion was hungry, a storm cloud puffed on by over the chimera's head. Had it not had something to eat? Maybe he could go pick up some raw meat from somewhere quickly. Had there been any stores at the harbor he could purchase food? The soldier off duty did not know. Perhaps, he could take a look.


Turning back around, the early adult looked around the harbor, for a moment. Not locating any stores to speak of, the early adult lowered his head towards his shoulders. There had been nothing here. Stepping back towards the staircase, he prepared himself to be the bearer of bad news.


Such words never came. Man and his dog nowhere to be seen, the soldier shrugged. Maybe it wasn't his job to feed someone else's pet. Leaving such thoughts behind, the hyena ascended the staircase. Noise increasing almost immediately, the chimera kept tuning everything around him out.


Taking the glass lift, like usual, the early adult could not help but wonder. Could there have been a party going on here? Why would someone host a get together at a harbor? The people of Fontaine were quite strange. Reaching the top floor, the soldier off duty steeled himself for the loud volume suffering to come.


Line towards the Aquabus stretching from end to end, the chimera placed himself behind the crowd of generic nobodies. Why was it so busy here today? Everyone chattering in a high pitched tone, the early adult continued to keep his ears to himself. Nothing that was occurring was any business of his whatsoever.


Aquabus arriving after two minutes, everyone in front of him barreled onto the vehicle as if it were about to disappear. Melusine tour guide up front begging everyone to come on one at a time, no one listened, as usual. Crowd seating themselves, the hyena placed himself on the furthest seat possible.


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, the excitable chatter kept on going. Not hearing anything of particular note that mattered, the soldier stared off at the scenery around him. Focusing his attention on the Opera House from afar, questions rolled pebbles around in the chimera's fading human brain.


Could there have been some sort of highly popular theater troupe performing at the Opera Epiclese tonight? The hyena supposed such could have been the case. But, did there need to be so much fanfare surrounding it? Surely, discussing it quietly was not that difficult.


But, the hyena shook his head. There was no way one singular show at the theater would cause this much vocal chaos. Not a chance, in the slightest. There had to have been something big happening somewhere within the Court City. That had to have been it. There had only been rich nobodies upon the vessel today. Money had lips.


Reaching the capital city after about thirty minutes, everyone had once again disembarked the vehicle in an disorderly fashion. Melusine once again asking everyone to get off one at a time, her cries had gone unheard. Keeping himself seated until the crowd dispersed, the soldier lifted himself upward in a slow manner.


Melusine thank him for listening, the early adult nodded. No matter how much of in a rush he would be put under, it was selfish to cause the working sea denizens any trouble. He could never allow for himself to do such a thing. Removing himself from the vehicle, the hyena peered upwards towards the sky, for a moment.


Sun shining so brightly, the hyena let out a blissful sigh. What a nice day to have no work to do. Changing into the silk blouse was the right decision, for sure. City streets as busy as ever, the soldier off duty turned his head towards the right and left. What should he do today? He supposed looking around the city for something would be a good start.


Large crowd circling around the entire city, the soldier could hardly believe what he was seeing. Just how many people were here today? It had to have been hundreds of rich nobodies walking around everywhere. Taking a long, deep breath, the early adult steeled himself for hyena versus the rich army.


Multiple people crunching together upon the streets, the chimera attempted with all his might to avoid the foot traffic. Why was everyone walking so close to one another? Were they getting ready to do some sort of fusion dance and combine into one? He knew that wasn't the case, but it felt like such, at the moment.


Sea of rich nobodies continuing to pool together, the chimera tried with all his might to continue to avoid the crowd. But, such continued to be impossible. More people continuing to flood in one after another, the hyena's arms were about to be as good as pancakes.


Not a single person minding their manners, the chimera flinched. Couldn't the masses at least try to walk in an orderly fashion? What in the world was going on here today? More people squeezing by him, his arms continued to be about ready to be squeezed flat into absolutely nothing.


Crowd running rampant, the soldier once again attempted to brave the sea. But, such was a failure before it could even begin. People speeding past him one after another, the chimera's possibly human rear and the ground soon met up with one another. Feet continuing to brush by him, his pants had almost been toppled over.


Lifting himself upward, the early adult tried with all his might to keep himself from boiling over the edge. Couldn't these people watch where they were going? But, the early adult let such go. He was wasting his time. He knew that no one was paying attention. Such was life of a rich person who only cared about themselves.


Finally braving out a portion of the crowd after about ten minutes of trying, the early adult huffed a weakened breath. Why was it so busy here today? Was it Rich People Day? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. If he keeps on going, sooner or later, he will find out the mystery of the crowd, for sure.


Readying himself to move through the western streets, the chimera placed his hands upon the ground. If this was a race against the crowd, then he would have to prepare himself. Adventurer's Guild receptionist within the corner of his damaged eyes, a goal point was set.


Tens upon twenty of people blocking the pathway towards the desk, the soldier off duty could hardly believe what was being played out in front of him. Many rich people demanding uniforms, the mechanical woman in front had said words he had been all too familiar with.


Black haired receptionist telling everyone to wait on line in an orderly fashion, the hyena could feel the questions continue to roll themselves out. Why was there a sudden influx of people aligning themselves with the world of adventuring? Something wasn't adding up here. The truth, however, soon came out.


Rich nobodies yelling they'll be taking these uniforms to the Chioriya Boutique the chimera blinked of bewilderment. That was allowed? Why would someone demand a uniform and then have it modified to be something else? Absolutely unfathomable. Nothing was making any sense today.


Peace and quiet kicking in for a few moments, the early adult stared off into space. What could he do today with day of nothing? Rolling around thoughts in his fading human brain, one thought came on through from the other side. Perhaps, he could help out the less fortunate that resided within Fleuve Cendre?


Decision made, the hyena prepared himself to head for the staircase. There was absolutely no chance he would make it past the crowd. Sea of nobodies yanking the green uniforms out of the receptionist's hands, the chimera placed himself from the backside of the crowd.


Party of plenty dashing off towards Chioriya boutique, the soldier swore he could hear owner say she would turn those drab outfits into something befitting of Fontaine. Hearing such, the early adult scratched his ears. Did she really say that just now? Maybe she was just an imposter in a costume.


Double dozen people dashing into the boutique, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. There was never a dull moment in Fontaine, was there? Crowd finally starting to disperse, the chimera placed himself upon the middle of the road. Fleuve Cendre, here he comes.


Reaching the stairs after about two hours of struggling, the hyena descended downward. No more rich people taking up space, the chimera could feel relief wash over him. There had no longer been a crowd in his way. He was free. Walking past the blacksmith, the ramping pathway was inching ever so closer. But, an annoyance soon took the stage.


Malika soon walking by the blacksmith, the early adult held back the urge to growl. Why was it that no matter where he were to go in Fontaine, he always had to run into the pesky penguin family? They were a permanent virus, spreading throughout the land. Eyes soon on him, he tried to look away. Great, he was spotted. It was all over now.


Seeing Siorc in one of Kaiser's hand sewn outfits, she had come to a quick conclusion. He had not been working with the Fatui today. Maybe she could convince him to join her team for Fashion Week? It would not hurt to try. Eyes on him, she excused herself.


"Hello there, darling," Malika greeted. "I couldn't help but notice you are wearing one of Kaiser's designs. Forgive my forwardness, but are you of duty?"


Question coming his way, the soldier swallowed his sigh whole. Why couldn't he be left the alone by this family at least for one day? But, he supposed he did not have anything to do. Maybe helping out with fashion week would give him busy work. Giving her a nod, he swore he could see sparkles in Malika's eyes.


Siorc giving her a nod, Malika placed her finger on her chin. So he was very much indeed not working today. Perfect, maybe this would work out just fine. Maybe enticing him with letting him wear whatever dress he chooses would give him an extra push? She could not help but feel bad for making him wear a suit during the court case debacle.


"If you are off, I have something that may be of interest to you, darling," Malika responded to his affirmation. "Would you like to assist us with Fashion Week? I'll let you wear whatever dress you'd like from the shop."


Hearing such, the early adult's ears perked. He could wear any dress he chose? There wasn't a catch to this, was there? If he could earn such reward by putting in his own weigh for some fashion competition, he was on board. Sold, a product ready for shipping through express delivery. Giving her a nod, he kept his eyes on her.


"Glad to have you aboard, darling," Malika responded. "I need you to find some models and some extra volunteers for me. Could I trouble you to head to Merusea Village? According to ----------- the Melusines are hosting a birthday party. I would like to make some dressed for them for the upcoming show."


Suggestion coming his way, the hyena nodded once more. He supposed if he wanted that dress, he would have to work for it. Figuring it was in his best interest to go to Merusea Village before searching for extra volunteers to assist with Fashion Week. Ascending the staircase once more, the chimera readied to head back towards the Aquabus.


Crowd all cleared out, the chimera breathed a sigh of relief. There was no longer a battle in the streets to conquer. Hearing the receptionist at the Adventurer's Guild say error, the hyena moved on through with caution. Could she just turn herself back on and off again? If she were about to short circuit, someone needed to deal with that right away.


Moving back past the western streets and towards the area of which he came, the chimera could not help but wonder. What was about to be in store for him for fashion week? Was this some sort of big modelling gig that happened every single year? He supposed that could have been the case.


Aquabus station almost three meters away the questions kept on rolling. If this were nothing more than some sort of modelling competition, who was she competing against? He knew that Chioriya Boutique was the Congele Boutique's biggest rival, but could there have been more out there besides those two?


Seating himself upon the Aquabus, the early adult stared off into space. Was he about to become one of Malika's models? Such option possibly existing, the hyena placed his hands on his cheeks. Him, as a model? Was he even right for such a job? He almost never had a chance to put on makeup, or have smooth skin. Vessel looking ready to leave the station, he could hear a voice call out to him.


"You look really happy about something!" the Melusine exclaimed. "Did something good happen."


Hearing such question, the soldier flapped his hand outward with a smile on his face. Had he made it too obvious? He had to have looked like an open book right now. Remaining silent, the vessel of automatic movement cruised forward towards the south direction.


As the vehicle passed by the view of the opera house, the soldier gazed at it. The competition stage for Fashion Week, where was it going to be taking place, anyway? Would it be held in the confines of everyone's boutiques? Surely, something as high scale as this wouldn't be so scattered around.


Reaching the halfway point towards Romaritime after about twenty minutes, the chimera gazed at the Melusine tour guide, for a moment. Would she be interested in modelling for Malika? Aeval soon informing him he had reached his destination, the chimera placed his hands out in front of him. Signing the words fashion week and model on private display, he tilted his head.


"Hmm? A model for a fashion show?" Aeval asked. "I'm sorry, but I can't leave my post!"


Hearing such, a wave of disappointment flowed through the soldier off duty. He supposed he saw this coming. Multiple Melusines integrated within human society had their own careers they had to worry about. He was no different, in such regard. His forced upon him career was all he knew.


But, the chimera shook his head. The Melusines were willing workers under the Iudex. He was on the opposite of such spectrum. Walking off towards the edge of the area, the soldier leaped off the edge. Wind glider deployed behind him, the soldier prepared to stage his landing.


Upon reaching the ground, however, something of immediate note made alarm bells go off inside the hyena's mind. Spotting multiple machines that looked like they were ready to blow at any given moment, the soldier off duty jumped ten steps back. Tail becoming stiff from behind him, the early adult studied the foreign objects, for a moment.


Large mechanical devices with meters moving from side to side ticking more and more for minutes on end, the hyena let out a yelp. What were these things? He knew, whatever they were, they were too dangerous to ignore. He had to get rid of them before heading down to Merusea Village, for sure. They were a danger. They could not remain here.


Resolute on his decision, the soldier sifted through his satchel, for a moment. Finding a Fatui issued greatsword, the hyena let out a sigh. Even though his work had been sidelined, there was never a weapon too far away from him. Placing his legs into a fighting stance, the readied for the destruction to take shape.


Machine beeping, the early adult thrusted the blade forward. But, upon doing so, he swore he could hear a toll of doom add itself to the mix. Large metallic fist coming out of the woodworks, the chimera let out a shout. What were these, poorly placed training dummies? No adventurer would waste their time out here attempting to fight these.


Beam across the sky informing him to hit the machine when it glowed, the early adult blinked. That's all he had to do to destroy this thing? Who made these things? Someone from the Research Institute had to have abandoned them here, or forgot all about them. That had to have been the case.


Hitting the machine in the rhythm allocated, the object counted down from three. Device looking to blow its nonexistent brains out, the soldier jumped six steps back. Were these explodaramas? He couldn't let any more of these remain here, if such were the case.


Moving on, another device soon awaited the soldier. But, what had bee laid out in front of him created even more questions than answers. Strange pipe machine with white keys across a large board, the hyena scratched the side of his head. What was with this? Did someone decide to discard their trash out here?


Hearing yet another ticking noise, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. He had yet another explosive object on his hands? This was not good. He had to do something about this, or devastation would overtake the area. Such could not happen. Cracking his knuckles, the chimera seated him by the piped machine.


Paper falling from the sky, the chimera read the note that came practically out of nowhere. Lowering his eyes into a squint, the early adult read the words carefully. Note stating, pressing the glowing keys in the time limit, the hyena flinched. He had to do what now? He didn't sign up for the role of a doomed musician.


First key glowing, the early adult slammed it downward. Pipes letting out a loud screech, the early adult added his own to the mix. But, he quickly sapped himself out of it. He needed to hurry, or he would fail the challenge. More keys glowing one after another, the soldier off duty pressed them in quick succession of one another.


Piped machine blowing to smithereens, the soldier ran as fast as his currently human legs could carry him. Multiple machines in the pathway looking ready to decimate everything around it, the hyena threw himself into mechanical warfare. Multiple devices throwing themselves out with a bang, the chimera dashed off towards the boiling hot waters.


Every single machine destroyed the early adult let out a tired huff. What was that all about? Had some researcher decided to place their rejected devices here? How annoying. Could this have been what had come up to cancel whatever work he was supposed to do today? If such were the case, this was nothing he could not handle.


Knowing he had to keep his eyes open for any further anomalies, the hyena kept moving forward. Turning his head towards the right and left, no other machines caught the chimera's attention. Nothing else of particular note, the boiling pool of water had soon been left behind.


Reaching the area right before Merusea Village after an hour of walking, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Tail retracting from behind him, he soon removed his diving equipment. Fat, blubbery suit absorbing him, the chimera dipped his toes into the water. Mind, and suit synched up to one another, the early adult dropped himself downward.


As the early adult had the diving suit thrust him downward, the early adult gazed at the secret underwater world in front of him. Would the Melusines even want to model for Malika? He knew there was a high possibility they would not. As the village drew ever so closer, a backup plan threw itself into the mix.


Brume and Eclater, would they be willing to model for Malika? He supposed asking them would not hurt, if all else failed. Resolute on his decision, the hyena kept having the diving suit thrust him downward. Reaching Merusea Village shortly, the hyena could hear a song in the background.


Multiple Melusines, and the prankster sea lion duo seating themselves at a table singing a birthday tune, the chimera excused himself, for a moment. This was a private party he had no business involving himself in. It was to wait for the celebration to reach its conclusion.


Fish cake eaten, and celebrations coming to an end after some time had passed, eyes were soon on him from afar. Had he come at a bad time? Maybe he had. This was a time for celebration amongst family. Sea lion prankster duo especially giving him the stink eye, the early adult shook with a fervor. He definitely should just come back later, shouldn't he?


"What's up, bro?" Brume asked, in a puzzled tone.


"Yeah, bro, what's up?" Eclater asked, in an even more puzzled tone. "Did our kooky boss send you? Well, tell him we're not working on our sister's birthdays!" As he said such, he placed his flippers in cross shaped position.


"You heard him, dude!" Brume said. "Tell that kooky old man it's a rest day!"


Hearing such, the soldier broke out into a sweat underneath his diving suit. He was absolutely certain, without a shadow of a doubt, every single day was a rest day for them. If there had not been a party just now a few moments ago, he wouldn't believe them, for a second.


Shaking his head, the early adult gazed at the prankster sea lion duo. These two, would they even want to serve as models? They did not seem like the type of people to have any interest in fashion. But, he knew it was in his best interest to include them in the conversation. Melusine soon looking his way, as well, the soldier inquired about modelling for fashion week for only the sea people. But, in a matter of moments, multiple answers threw themselves into the ring one after another.


"Me, be a model for some wacky fashion show on the surface world?" Brume asked in disgust. "No way, bro! I don't even like wearing those things humans call clothes!"


"Yeah, bro! Pants are totally kooky!" Eclater shouted.


"Totally whack!" Brume added in. "How do you humans deal with that suffocation all day? Couldn't be me!" But, the next challenger soon interrupted the ebb of the flow.


"Miss Malika wants us to model for her?" one of the Melusines asked.


One of the Melusines referring to Malika by name, the early adult stared off into space, for a moment. Had the penguin family been acquainted with the folks within Merusea Village? He supposed such could have been the case. Giving them a nod, multiple sea denizens all at once told the hyena they would definitely model.


"Where do we need to model, Monsieur?" on the melusines asked.


Spelling out Congele Boutique with his no longer gloved fingers, the small group of Melusines had given him their own personal go ahead. Inquiries coming his way about when they should head there, the chimera wondered. How long would fashion week be going on for? Signing the day after tomorrow, he could feel a clap of thunder drop over him. If he was wrong about this, he would be in trouble with the Iudex for spreading false information, guaranteed.


Returning to the surface world, the soldier removed his diving equipment. Seating himself upon the grass for moment, he recalled the penguin chimera's request. She had asked him to find other volunteers to help out with fashion week. Combing through his mind for a moment, nothing came to him. Who could he possibly ask to help lend their assistance to for this?


Frog and Alligator chimeras floating around in his mind, the hyena popped such bubble with a pin. Why were those two the first that came to mind? Neither of them could breathe on land. They were out of the question entirely. He could not impose such on them, not a chance. He could not do that to them.


Sea lion, or mermaid sisters rather, floating through his mind next, the chimera shook his head. He could not ask them, either. They had far more important matters to attend to. None of which involved helping out with a fashion competition. Throwing such pin out, he prepared himself to move onto the next floating point.


Throwing the bird bounty hunters names out immediately, the soldier grabbed a hold of multiple strands of his hair. Why did he even think about those two for even a second? The Justice Hawk of Fontaine despised him with every fiber of his being. He knew, the moment he were to even ask, he would be turned into target practice.


Every other unnecessary name unrelated to Fontaine thrown out, the hyena's mind soon wandered towards the machines he had defeated hours prior. Image of Rabiu floating around in his head like an apple, the chimera blinked. The nervous researcher jackal, would he be willing to join team Congele?


Lifting himself upwards towards his feet, the early adult nodded. The researcher jackal, he would, without a shadow of doubt lend his assistance. Cards not stacked against him, the chimera prepared himself to head off for the research institute. But, what awaited him as he ran northward threw him for two loops.


More of the explosive machines from before appearing in the pathway, the hyena shook with a fervor. What were these doing here again? Hadn't he already taken care of this issue? There had to have been someone hiding in the shadows, placing their devices of doom somewhere.


First of many devices decimated, the chimera let out a huff. If a researcher was doing some experiment, they shouldn't leave their work unattended. Whoever this researched might have been, they were doing quite the terrible job of cleaning up their mess.


Five more mechanical devices biting the dust after multiple strikes, the chimera pressing onwards towards the north. Not seeing any person around, the early adult could feel himself leap to a conclusion. Maybe the abyssal gazelles were just messing with him from afar.


But, the early adult threw such thoughts out into the ocean. Why was he thinking about the hooded strangers at a time like this? They had nothing to do with this, for sure. Not every single minor inconvenience had to do with them. Surely, some trainee researcher had just been messing around.


Seven further explodaramas blowing themselves up to smithereens after they had been struck from in front, behind, and every angle imaginable, the hyena had reached Marcotte Station after two hours of walking. Nothing else unusual, the hyena sauntered onward.


Station passed through, the soldier headed off upon the westward path. Main research facility coming up fast, the early adult prepared himself. Would Rabiu have time to work with the Congele Boutique? He could feel doubts bubble up inside him like boba. Maybe this was a mistake.


Entire jackal family working hard on some sort of machinery with peculiar metallic tools, a wave of nervousness flowed through him. Had they been the ones who placed those machines in the Beryl Region? But, the chimera cut such thoughts with an invisible pair of scissors. There he goes again, jumping to conclusions. Eyes soon on him, he could hear the sound of tools plinking as they hit the ground.


Seeing Siorc walk into the research facility, Rabiu could feel his cheeks grow pink. What was he doing here? Taking note he had been adorning a bright white silk blouse shirt, he fanned himself. Was it just him, or was it hot in here? Picking up his wrench he held in a nervous laugh. Archons, was he cute today. There was no way he could work under these conditions.


"Um, uh, what are you doing here, Siorc?" Rabiu asked. "Do you, um, need help with something?" His eyes wandered for a moment. Where was he supposed to look? Act natural, act natural. "Um, just so you know, I'm not busy right now, or anything, so, um, ask away."


Rabiu sweating up a storm, the hyena blinked. Why had he been staring at his outfit? Was the silk distracting him from his work? Maybe he should take his shirt off. But, he knew if he did that, he would only make matters far worse. Attempting to walk his mind back to the subject. Did he need help with something? Giving the researcher jackal a nod, he gave him eye contact.


"Um, so? What do you need help with?" Rabiu asked. "If, um, it's about those machines in the Beryl Region, we, um, we uh--" Losing grip on his words for a moment, he tried to restart his sentence. "We have nothing to do with any of those, okay? Um, please don't ask about those."


Hearing such, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of suspicion. Was Rabiu lying to him? If he was, he wasn't very good at it. But, the early adult shook his head. That was far from important right now. He had other matters to attend to. Acting himself out walking down a runway, the word assistant had been spelled out with his fingers, as well. Looking the jackal researcher in the eyes, he mouthed the words, just in case.


Siorc acting like some model on the runway, Rabiu studied the cute man's movement carefully. What was he asking, exactly? Studying his mouth movements for a moment, it had soon come to him. Had he bee asking him to assist with some fashion competition? Maybe he could lend a clawed hand.


"Um, uh, sure, I'll help," Rabiu responded. But, another person soon stepped up to the plate.


"I shall help, as well," Sani said, left hand on his chest, taking a chivalrous bow.


"Um, that's not up to you?" Rabiu responded in a questioning tone.


"And, here I went and kindly offered my assistance. My utmost apologizes for inviting myself, then," Sani responded in a sarcastic tone. But, he soon cooled his jets, a little. "Either way, Monsieur, would it be alright if I join team Congele? Although, my utmost apologizes if I don't show up right away I have half the vision I used to." As he said such, he placed an eyepatch over his permanently close eyelid.


Sani inviting himself to join the party, the early adult shrugged. He supposed he did not mind, but he couldn't help but feel there was some sort of agenda behind this. Accepting the two volunteers, the soldier readied to stage his exit. But, as he prepared to do so, he could hear laughter fill the room.


"Oh, look at Robby, joining forces with a fashion boutique," Folu laughed. "You're going to scare customers away with that gross orange outfit of yours, so, I'll be joining a rival boutique and competing against you!"


"Me, too!" Oluchi exclaimed. "Cute little me is going to join Chioriya Boutique's fashion week crew! We're guaranteed to win with my adorableness!" As she said such, she stuck out her tongue.


Rabiu shriveling up like a dying snow trillium, the early adult crossed his arms across his waist. Why were his siblings always picking on him like this? Weren't siblings supposed to depend and get along with each other? But, he supposed all families fought with one another. Researcher jackal eventually getting himself back together, he turned towards the hyena.


"Um, you should ask Lonan, too," Rabiu said, lip quivering. "Um, uh, I believe he's in Fleuve Cendre this week, but um, uh, he seems fond of you. So, um, it's uh, worth a shot?"


Taking the researcher jackal's suggestion into his clipboard inside his mind, the chimera prepared himself to return back towards the Court of Fontaine. Running south for quite awhile, the soldier blinked. Lonan had been quite fond of him? That sounded a little too farfetched to be true.


Reaching Marcotte Station after about an hour of walking, the hyena's thoughts had begun to wander once more. Would Lonan agree to do this? He could have been quite busy in the underground city helping the less fortunate. Maybe he should not disturb him during such trying times.


Aquabus taking him back to the capital city of Fontaine after about twenty minutes, the early adult prepared himself for the possible rejection to come his way. Would the laid back hawk chimera even have time to lend his assistance? Perhaps it was best to turn back now.


But, the soldier walked through the doors to Fleuve Cendre. He could not give up so soon. He knew he would have to at least ask. Climbing down a series of ladders, the world without sun soon engulfed him once more. Secondary hawk and falcon duo carrying boxes to the top of some high off building, the hyena waited. Party of two returning back towards ground level, golden eyes wandered off towards him.


"Sup, black fish steak bro," Lonan asked. "Did Malikers send you?" But, he had soon been elbowed.


"Can't you ever address someone by their normal name?" Gwendolyn asked, tone annoyed. "If she heard you call her that, she'd do much more than elbow you, and good luck with that, because I'm not helping you in the event of retaliation."


"Ow, what was that for, gf?" Lonan asked Gwendolyn. "Malikers doesn't care when I call her that." He then turned towards black fish steak bro. "So, what do you need from me, bro?"


Hands out in front of him, the chimera had signed the words fashion week for every single person of Fleuve Cendre to see. Forbidden question whispered quietly for no one to hear, the turned towards Lonan once more. Would he even agree to this at all? He knew the odds were stacked against him.


"Fashion Week?" Lonan asked. "Sure, bro, I don't have much going on the rest of the week." But, a wave of defiance had thrown itself into the ring.


"If you're helping Congele Boutique, consider me your rival!" Gwendolyn shouted, pointing. "I'm helping Chioriya Boutique!"


"Kay, babe, whatever," Lonan said to Gwendolyn. He then turned back towards black fish steak bro. "I'll come by the shop tomorrow. For now, got some boxes to lift."


Two new aids gained, the soldier gazed upwards at the sky. How had it only been mid afternoon still? The day was still young, how was this possible? Moving on, the hyena supposed it was in his best interest to let Malika know everything went well. Heading off towards Congele Boutique, the information was on the tip of his fingers.


But, immediately upon entering the downstairs apartment the early adult had been dragged into a chair. Esquire telling him he needed to sew a series of dresses, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. He had to go and do all that now, on such short notice? Malika nowhere to be seen, only Kaiser, pesky Earl, Baron and Marquis remained.


"You need to sew the hem of these dresses for Fashion Week," Esquire demanded. "Chop chop!" As he said such, he clapped his hands loudly together.


Kaiser, Earl and Baron working hard in the corner of the room, the early adult held back the urge to let out a sigh of relief. The pesky thorns in his side were too busy working to notice him. This would be a nice quick and quiet afternoon, for sure. Esquire soon shouting at him to think less and work more, the early adult placed the needle between his fingers.


Staring at the hole in the needle, the early adult blinked at the thread in front of him. He had to sew the skirts onto the waistline? Did he have what it takes? He had never sewn anything before at any given point in time. Taking a deep breath, he placed the thread through the barely visible hole.


Needle and thread becoming intertwined with one another, the early adult poked the end end of the sharp object into the skirt. Bottom edges hanging quite loose as he pulled it through, the hem had been sewn farther up than it should have been Marquis soon walking by, shouts came his way, in an instant.


"Hey, ugly, why did you sew the skirt up that high?" Marquis complained. "Do you want the entire stage to see the model's undergarments?" As he said such, his finger pointed at the stitches. "Undo them and try again!"


Undoing the stitches, the soldier could feel his skin about ready to crawl off of him. He had to sew it all again? Surely, it hardly mattered where the hem was located. But, he had soon been yelled at to hurry up once again. Right, he was on crunch time. He had to sew swiftly and efficiently.


Attempting the stitches once again, the hyena had been yelled at for hours on end. Told the stiches were too loose, the scissors had ben awarded for the second time of the day. Trying again, he attempted to stich even harder. But, the further he attempted, the worse it all became.


Marquis and Esquire nagging him for hours on end, the hyena broke out into a sweat. Why was sewing so complicated? There was far too many rules to all this. Bossed around on loop for multiple dresses, the early adult could feel his head begin to slump onto the desk in the corner. But, he could feel his shoulders slapped from behind.


"Who said you could sleep right now, ugly?" Esquire asked in a demanding tone. "Not I. Get back to work." He then turned towards Earl. "You too, Earl! Stop slacking off."


"Let me sleep a little, it's almost tomorrow morning already," Earl said, slumping his head on the table in the corner.


"You can sleep when you're dead!" Esquire shouted. "Get back to work!"


Kaiser and Earl letting out collective tired groans, the early adult closed his mouth up tight. There was no way he would stoop down to their level. Complaining was not on the menu, no matter what. Forcing himself to get back to work, the young soldier continued stitching for hours on end.


Head dropping down on the table as the hours of work droned on by, the hyena could hardly keep his eyes open. Slumping his head onto the dress he was working on, he could feel himself begin to drift off into the world of dreams once more. Land of the subconscious about to drag him in, he drifted off. But, he had soon been brought back to reality.


"Let's get you to bed, darling," Malika said in a tired voice. "You can't sleep here on the table like this."


Malika guiding him into the guest room, he had soon been placed in the temporary bed. Covers soon placed over him, he could feel himself about to drift off almost immediately. Land of the subconscious inviting him back in, the hyena's eyes stayed shut. But, as the dream world dragged him back in, one final thought looped on repeat.


Fashion is hard work.


***


"I'm probably wrong, and I'm definitely


Thinking far too
Hard about this, but
I think there's something fishy that's going on with some of these other boutiques.
No. I shouldn't say that. I
Know I am far from correct. I


Shouldn't be judging
Obviously, I am very wrong. But,
Maybe not. While
Everyone does seem genuine.
There are a few of the rival boutiques I
Have this heavily
Intense feelings of suspicious. Those two other boutiques competing. I have
Never heard of either of them. But, I
Guess they could have just started up.


I'm not suspicious of Pristine Designs, however, but
Something tells me I should be.


All of a sudden, the chimeras that


Look so similar to me from the Haar
Islands are joining
The competition? To be honest, somehow, I find
That maybe just a
Little too hard to believe. How did they
Even get here? That dragon companion


Of their's doesn't really take them very
Far usually. And, as
Far as I know, Fontaine is quite far from Mondstadt, and the


Haar Islands are so far isolated from the rest of the world
Even I am puzzled how they came here.
Regardless, I suppose there's a third rival group to the Congele Boutique. Malika told me, though
Eight different boutiques usually participate every year,


But, there seems to be a lot less this year.
Uh, well, my eyes are open since I don't
Trust some of these groups.


I feel like there will be someone out here ready to sabotage us


All, and thus, coming out on top through
Malicious means.


Unless I am mistaken. Or, maybe I am
Not. I don't know,
Some of the other boutiques just seem suspicious. Like they're looming around for some
Untimely demises.
Right, well, that's not happening.
Everything can be,


Will be, and is at stake
Here, so I cannot
Accuse anyone of anything
They haven't done. I have to focus on the day at a hand."


Shoulders shook on repeat, the early adult let out a tired grunt. Who was disturbing his slumber so early in the morning? Couldn't he have five more minutes before he had to return to kingdom needle and thread? Reaching for his glasses, another groan had been added to the collection.


"Don't you know time is sensitive right now?" Baron asked in an annoyed tone. "Go to Palais Mermoina. The Iudex had asked to meet with the competitors." As they said such, they twirled a strand of their curly hair. "Get going before Esquire gets impatient. Or, he'll drag you there by force." They then adjusted their monocle. "I cannot assure he will not do this. So, go on and get out of here before that happens."


Flopping out of bed, the chimera had soon been handed a clean Fontaine styled brown shirt. Placing it over his layered shirts, the hyena let out a sigh. Why was Esquire so impatient? What an annoying penguin, for sure. Patience was a virtue he needed to stick by.


Ascending the staircase, the chimera could not help but wonder as he prepared himself to head off towards the glass lift in the Aquabus Information station. Just who could it have been that could have been competing for Fontaine Fashion week? Had there been multiple parties involved?


Moving towards the bottom floor of the city, the early adult shrugged. There had to have been at least, bare minimum, three boutiques competing. Folu, Oluchi and Gwendolyn had dispersed themselves to the rival competitors. There had been one other boutique he had never heard the name of hidden of in another part of the capital city.


Stepping into the glass box, the soldier stared off into space. Was heading to the Palais Mermonia even necessary? This was wasting a lot of time he could be using to get some sewing in. Surely, this meeting the competition was hardly something that was necessary.


Door of the elevator soon opening, the chimera removed himself from the room of quick floor travel. Taking a deep breath, the soldier off duty moved onwards towards the Palais Mermonia. Who else could have possibly been in this competition? He supposed he was about to find out.


Iudex calling out to everyone to come on into his office, a heavy wave of shock flowed through him at the sight presented to him. Chioriya boutique and her assistants for Fashion Week with her letting down their buckets of haze, the chimera's eyes wandered off towards three faces he thought he'd never see.


Spotting Lewod, Pira and Nathair in the corner all dressed up in fancy dresses, and uncomfortable looking suit, the early adult rubbed his eyes multiple times. Had he really been seeing things correctly now? His near mirror image had been here. What was going on? Had he been dreaming? But, the competition just kept on coming.


Spotting two groups of generic looking men adorning black top hats, a wave of suspicions flowed through him. He did not know why, but something had felt quite of about the nobodies in the hats. He did not know why, but he could hear them click something multiple times with their tongues. But, he had soon been brought back reality as the Iudex's voice doomed.


"Thank you all for coming," the Iudex said in an important tone. "As you all are very much aware, late tomorrow evening, you will all be presenting your fashion onto the stage of the Opera Epiclese. So, it is in your best interest to have everything ready by then."


Hearing such, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. He only had until late evening tomorrow to finish sewing the outfits to present onto the stage? How could there be so little time? Surely, that wasn't all there was to it. Who has Fashion Week only last three days? One wasn't adding up to two whatsoever.


Everyone soon aligning themselves with their sides, the chimera studied whom he was competing with, for the moment. Spotting Gwendolyn and Oluchi on the side of Chioriya Boutique, the hyena shook his head. Neither of these two had chosen wisely. But, he supposed that they had already made their decision to compete against.


Spotting Folu siding with the Haar Island chimera's team, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Why were they siding with someone that had no idea who they were? But, he supposed Folu had a similar taste in fashion to Nathair. Leah adorning a gigantic bow in their hair that looked ready to catch fire from the competition, the hyena tried to look away. But, purple eyes soon on him.


"Mirror image on the wall, I have a message for you!" Leah shouted. As she said such, she played with her hair ribbons. "It's Pristine Designs versus Congele Boutique! Get ready to be stomped out of the competition!"


"Woah, there, kiddo," Pira said in a stern tone. "This is going to be a fair competition. Don't use childish tactics to win."


"Dearie, I'm going to win anyway," Nate said wagging xer finger. "Might as well not even waste time holding Leah back." But, as xe announced such, some weird noise sparked.


Turning his head towards the other competitors beeping in the corner, the soldier rose an eyebrow. Just what was with those last few contestants? Something was quite terribly wrong here, and he knew something bad would happen at the competition tomorrow, for sure. But, his thoughts had soon been interrupted by a hand soon grabbing his.


"Darling, it's time to go back, we have work to do," Malika said, dragging him back to the boutique.


Returning to the boutique, the soldier could see a closed sign upon the door. Rabiu, Lonan, and Baron on the top floor sewing up a storm, the hyena had been returned to the bottom floor where the apartment had been. But, as he placed himself at his work station, a realization washed over him.


Sani nowhere to be seen, the early adult could not help but wonder. Had he just been joking when he claimed he would help with the competition? Maybe he was, but he supposed if such were indeed the case there wasn't much he could do about it. Some people were dishonest, and nothing could be done.


Marquis, Esquire, Earl and Kaiser all hard at work, the hyena could hear the door upstairs close with a loud thud. Malika had gone back out again? She had quite the busy days ahead of her before the competition tomorrow. Kaiser soon looking up from the dress that was being sewn, the chimera let out a groan. Did he think there was time to talk here? They all had work to do. There was no time for talking.


"Malika told me you were wearing one of my outfits," Kaiser asked in a tired voice. "Do you like it?"


Giving the penguin a nod, the hyena swore he could see color return to Kaiser's eyes. Seeing such, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Maybe he shouldn't have responded. The original pesky thorn in his side was about to revert back to his annoying self any second now.


"Great," Kaiser responded, tired tone of voice. "Glad you like it." But, shouts had soon come his way.


"Less yapping, and more sewing!" Marquis shouted.


Knowing that, if he did not start sewing right this instant, he would get yelled at, as well, the soldier prepared the clothing components in front of him. Laying out the blouse in front of him, the early adult prepared the needle and thread. Sleeves sewn on crooked, he swore he could hear a collection of groans come his way.


Marquis yelling at him to take this more seriously, this was a competition, not a playground, the early adult undid the stitches. Right, this was for a competition, not something for fun. He had to work harder to get everything precise, or he would cost the Congele Boutique a win.


Continuing to sew the sleeves on incorrectly, a heavy wave of discomfort flowed through the hyena. Baron screaming at him that he had been stitching it all wrong, the hyena's eyes twitched. All of the stitches were wrong? How was that even possible? He could feel his intelligent quotient drop down five points, in a matter of moments.


Attempting a few times more, he could feel the icy cold criticisms coming for him from multiple meters away. Baron asking him how couldn't he do something as simple as sewing, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. As if the art of stitching up clothes was easy. It had been far from so.


Trying one last time, the soldier took a long deep breath. He needed to stitch precisely and carefully. That was the key. Sloppy work would go noticed, he could not do such a thing. But, such insult had come his way once more. Baron once again asking him how could he continue to fail such simple stitches, the soldier rolled his eyes to the ceiling. Excuse him, sewing clothing parts together was not as easy as it seemed.


Sewing session continuing for hours on end, the soldier could see Earl ready to remove himself from the room. But, in a matter of moments, he let out a sigh. If the pesky thorn in his side were to get up now, he would be yelled at to oblivion, guaranteed. Heading towards the stairs, he soon let out a shout.


"Oops! I just remembered I have to go gather materials in Liffey, gotta go!" Earl shouted. As he said such, he ascended the staircase, but feet soon chased after him.


"Get back here, ugly!" Esquire exclaimed.


"You're hideous for trying to escape!" Marquis shouted.


Marquis and Esquire running out of the area at full force, the soldier shrugged. This hardly concerned him. He had far more important matters to attend to right now. Big pile of Melusine dresses dropped down in front of him, the chimera resumed sewing, for the moment.


But, with every stitch he made, criticisms washed him out to bay. Baron telling him the garnishes had to go in the open holes and be sewn on tight, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Why was there so many rules for sewing? Baron demanding he start over, the chimera's brows continued to twitch. Start over? Now? There was hardly any time left before tomorrow night.


Kaiser teaching the chimera the way of the needle, the early adult broke out into a sweat. Instructing him to sew everything in the gaps slowly, but with precision, the chimera did as instructed. Eventually learning the way of the needle, six dresses were done in five hours. But, his work had soon been interrupted.


Earl, Marquis and Esquire panting up a storm, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What was going on here, exactly? Why had everyone been so out breath, all of a sudden? But, everyone had soon learned the truth for the population of six to hear from up and below.


"We found some hideous domain at the bottom of the ocean!" Marquis shouted. "And, I just know it's stealing people's dress designs down there! Someone, go deal with it! With a vision preferably!"


Hearing such, the hyena stood upward from his chair. There was some domain down below the ocean that could have been stealing designs? That would not do. He had to take care of it before it were to pick itself off the ground. There was hardly any time to waste. But, as he prepared to head for the door, Earl chased after him.


"Huh, Siorc, you're heading to the secret factory?" Earl asked. "I'll take you there!"


Attempting to refuse, Earl refused such refusal. Knowing he was stuck journeying with them the domain, the soldier let out a groan. Couldn't Earl allow him to do this by himself? He was fine on his own. But, the pesky penguin chimera kept holding onto him as if he had an invisible leash.


Eventually reaching the Liffey Region after about three hours of running, the soldier placed his diving equipment over him. Dropping downwards towards the bottom of the ocean, a peculiar blue door soon appeared beside the Fortress of Meropide. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of suspicion. Who would willingly perform operations of mass costume copying so close to a place to lock criminals up?


Finding themselves in a large factory with multiple machines everywhere, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes at what was presented before him. Robots everywhere stealing multiple designs from many other competitors, the hyena let out a barely audible gasp. How could someone do something like this?


Robots immediately getting hostile, the soldier prepared his Claymore out in front of him. But, such had been cancelled before it could get its first chapter in the spotlight. Earl's rage boiling over immediately, his gauntlets had been slapped over his fists, in a matter of moments.


"How dare you steal our designs!" Earl shouted. "You'll pay for this!"


Earl's gauntlets slapping multiple robots out of existence, the soldier's jaw dropped straight open. What in the world had he just witnessed? Earl continuing to cause destruction for minutes on end, the chimera dropped his claymore. This chimera was not to be messed with when angry.


Armies of robots soon defeated, the early adult had soon uncovered a large document on the floor. Folder entitled claim victory through fraudulence, the hyena's lip quivered. Who could ever do such a thing? Whoever had the goal to steal designs and claim everyone else was fraud had more than ten screws loose, for sure.


Earl reading over the documents, his face was soon a bright shade of crimson. Screaming they'll have to prove these rival boutiques are planning to cheat later. Nodding, the party of two exited the domain. Returning to the boutique as the later hours soon chimed, everyone soon dispersed for the evening.


Dinner served, the soldier could feel the blood drain from his face. Why would someone do this? Try and steal designs? Some people were far too cruel in this world. This could not be allowed to happen. Late evening meal soon finished, the early adult rolled into the temporary bed. But, as the dream world was ready to drag him back in, a thought threw a pea at his brain.


Was there a corruption scandal on the horizon?


***


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The cycle was a never ending circle of doom, creating strange mazes that never had an exit in them, for any given reason. The night before him had been no different, as well.


In the dream, he had been on stage, spotlight forced over him. Strange woman with long white hair that went down to her backside and pitch black hands, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. Who was this woman? He had never encountered her before in his entire life. But, he supposed he had to have seen her somewhere. The dream world could not invent new faces.


"Dance for me," the woman demanded.


Hearing such, the early adult shook his head. Dance for this stranger? Why should he? He was not some show hyena that could used for fun and games. But, a super heavy metal object had soon been dropped upon the back of his head. Feeling such, the chimera let out a pained screamed.


"I said dance for me. You have no right to refuse!" the voice boomed.


Letting out a scream, the soldier had begun dancing. Right. He was the mercy of the dream world, he wasn't allowed to disobey. Continuing to dance, the early adult screeched. Simulated scent of fire whipped up the screams got louder at the sight before him.


Fire beneath his feet, the early adult let out another shout. He had to dance with the flames? Legs set ablaze almost immediately, the chimera let out another scream that penetrated back into reality. Why was this happening? Feeling his body turned to cinders, the soldier off duty fell to the ground. Dream life about to be extinguished, one final thought tossed itself out into the dream world.


Why this?


***


"Tonight is the night, and
Huh? More domains have popped up.
Even more factories came up. I


Don't quite get what's happening here
And, to be honest, I have
Yet to understand any of this.


How could so many people band together only to find
A group of others playing foul?
So much for having


An original design to wear since those
Really untalented hacks are
Ready to steal everything.
I can't believe this. I
Very much this is the worst. Well, not
Exactly the worst. But it's
Definitely up there. I need to take care of this."


Waking up the next morning, multiple screams bounced off the walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. Hearing the sound of people running towards the room, the early adult took deep breaths. Marquis and Esquire with beauty masks on their face, they soon let out a sea of shouts.


"Stop screaming ugly!" Marquis shouted.


"It's early in the morning! We're sleeping here!" Esquire shouted. But, another shout had soon been added to the mix.


"My designs have been stolen!" Malika shouted.


Marquis screaming at Malika that was just one of her stupid dreams she just woke up from, she soon barked back. Shouting all her equipment was gone from right under her nose, the soldier could feel the world crash around him. Something wasn't right here. There was absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt, foul play evident here.


Removing himself from the bed, the early adult tossed on a black blouse thrown his way. How could someone steal the dresses overnight? Was there a phantom thief on the loose? He did not know why but, everyone felt suspicious. He needed to head over to the competition and see if anything had been taken.


Running out of Congele Boutique, the early adult dashed around the Court of Fontaine like a decapitated chicken. Who could have possibly gone around in the dead of night and stolen everything like this? Hadn't the windows been locked? Something wasn't adding up.


Finding a small rented building in the corner, the soldier barged into the building like he owned the place. Lewod, Pira, Nathair running around the joint with Folu up in the front in charge, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Folu, perhaps they were the culprit in all this. Hadn't they despised Rabiu? They would definitely find a way to make him lose if he were to get down and dirty. Earl soon slamming the door, he threw down the questions.


"You four, fess up! I know you're stealing designs!" Earl shouted. But, protests had soon flocked in.


"Stealing other people's designs?" Leah cried. "I would never do that! I'm a good girl!"


"Why, I never!" Folu exclaimed. "I know I joined this team because I wanted to compete against Rabiu, but I would never steal designs to try and win. That's just petty!"


"Dear, you should know I pride myself in my own original work," Nathair said, shaking xer head. "So, I would never steal anyone's design. You have the wrong person."


Pira demanding they leave their base of temporary operation, everyone had been thrown out. Group of two spreading themselves out through the city, the hyena stared off into space. Why would anyone try to steal people's designs for the competition the day of? But, as he thought such, he could feel bricks fall all over him.


Answer coming to him, a spark popped off in his brain. He sees now. The thieves wanted to win so badly they would resort to taking everyone's equipment for the big event. Heading over to Chioriya Boutique, the results had been the exact same as seconds prior.


Gwendolyn claiming she would never steal designs, nor equipment, especially if used by some pathetic man. The soldier could see Lonan's face sink. Hearing such, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. Could she ever tone it down a notch? But, he supposed that was impossible for her. Owner of the Chioriya Boutique taking out her two swords, threats had soon come Lonan's way.


"You dare accuse me, the owner of this boutique of stealing?" the owner of Chioriya Boutique asked deadpan. "This is slander." But, as she looked ready to go in for the kill, Kaiser soon added himself to the party.


"I found the thieves!" Kaiser shouted. "They're ugly for their crimes!" He then turned his attention towards the Fatui. "How dare you just stand there and look pretty like me! Deal with the crimes to beauty!"


Hearing such demands, the soldier rolled his eyes to the sky. Kaiser was back to his old self again, he sees. Small digital map handed off to him of the domain's location, the early adult had begun running. Dashing onto a long, winding trail, the early adult could not help but notice some peculiarities that had occurred of over the past few days.


Sani not anywhere to be seen helping out at the boutique for the competition, a heavy wave of suspicion flowed through him. He had been not on the scene almost the entire time. Something was incredibly fishy about all this, for sure. Continuing to run, the hyena had soon reached the first domain. But, a wave of suspicion flowed through him at who was at the entrance.


Spotting Oluchi at the entrance with a guilty look on her face, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. What was she doing here beside this crack within subspace? Something was up with that. She had to have been the culprit. Whispering the word thief, her ears perked.


"Cute little me, a thief?" Oluchi asked with a loud gasp. "No way! I'm way too cute to steal anyone's designs!"


Lowering his eyes into a squint, the soldier stepped into the domain. Multiple dresses stolen from their makers seating themselves in an avian style domain, the squints only got lower. How very suspicious. Oluchi had to have done all this. But, she had soon defended herself once more.


"No way! These are super shotty aviators! Couldn't have been me!" Oluchi shouted. "You gotta believe me, I'd never do anything like this! I'm too cute to commit crimes!"


Taking Oluchi's word for it, the party of two went through the domain. Multiple designs discovered that had been copied upon some assembly line, the soldier withheld trying to gag. Who would do something like this? It was almost as if, in the world outside Teyvat, an artificial intelligence was trying to overtake the creative sphere, but had failed miserably.


Stolen property soon retrieved, and everything else claimed, everyone prepared themselves towards the next domain, but whom had been waiting by it raised the chimera's suspicion levels even higher. Sani standing outside tapping his foot and whistling, the early adult could feel a punch ready to come on. This man was the reddest of the flags.


"I know I might seem the most suspicious right now, but I assure you I did not do anything," Sani said. "Been working behind the scenes for the past couple of days. Something just isn't right here. Sorry for not helping at the boutique I just had to go with my gut."


But, the soldier was not buying this one bit. How could he expect to trust him if he hadn't been around whatsoever? For all he could know, he could be the mastermind behind this all. The master of the thieves. But, Sani soon shook his head again, attempting to let his innocence be known.


"I'm sorry for being absent, and I know this makes me look guilty, but I assure you, I have just been tracking the enemy," Sani said, shaking his head. "If you do not believe me, this is what I discovered. Someone had made big humanoid like dolls to go around stealing people's designs and copy and them one after another quickly and cheaply to claim plagiarism to win by default.. He let out a cough, for a moment. "This is their last stop. I've taken photos and recorded their crimes on an experimental technology. Let's confront them."


Entering the domain, the two rival boutiques had been caught blue handed. Photos presented to them of their crimes, they soon attempted to send some robotic goons after them. But, the one eyed jackal chimera destroyed them all in one fell swoop. Sparks flying after about ten strikes, Sani blew on his rungu.


"Busted," Sani said. "Now, let's get you back to the boutique for modeling."


Brought back to the boutique, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Melusines all in the dresses he sewed together, the soldier could hardly contain himself. These young sea denizens, they would most certainly shine on stage. But, there had been one last surprise on the wall.


"Darling, your dress is done, too," Malika said. As she said such, the clothing had been handed off to him.


Beautiful, bright pink silk dress embroidered with roses on it, the soldier broke out into tears. This was his dress? Was he dreaming? Pinching himself, he could feel a sting. He was most certainly awake right now. Soft, silky dress soon over him, the soldier off duty twirled around and giggled like a schoolgirl. But, the fun was soon interrupted by a grating voice.


"Wow!" the melusines all shouted. "So pretty!"


"Wow, he really likes it!" Earl said. "We should walk down the aisle and get married right away!"


Rabiu and Lonan both blushing as they gazed at his dress, the early adult added his own pink cheeks to the mix. Why were they staring at him like that? Didn't Lonan have a fake girlfriend? Maybe he had secretly become his fake girlfriend. But, he didn't care. Let the people stare.


"Uh, I sewed the roses on, black fish steak bro," Lonan said. As he said such, his cheeks grew redder. "Every single one of them." But, he stumbled upon his words.


"And, I, um, uh, did the hem after Malika made it," Rabiu said, voice quivering.


Evening soon arriving, the party of ten plus Melusines headed for the Marcotte Station one after another. Reaching the Opera House after fifteen minutes of slow walking, the early adult twirled around in his dress once more. Why couldn't he wear silk every day?


Iudex informed of the anonymous crimes, everyone had begun to head backstage. Annoying magician acting as the announcer, the soldier let out a groan. Why did it have to be him, of all people? How annoying. Pristine Designs getting up on stage first, the soldier headed out towards the audience, for a moment.


Multiple outfits up on stage adorning colorful sequins and flashing lights, the early adult took off his glasses for a moment. These outfits, weren't they a bit too gaudy? But, he supposed he didn't know hardly enough about the fashion world to have a proper comment.


Audience screaming it's so bright, bold, and beautiful, and chanting Pristine Designs over and over again, the soldier held back the urge to sweat. But, he knew he could not do so, or he would ruin his makeup. The competition was about to get super fierce, any second now. Annoying fake magician soon announcing Chioriya boutique next, the hyena gazed at them from the audience.


Chioriya boutique presenting some bright blue magical looking outfits, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Did Congele boutique even stand a chance at this point? The competitors had two legs up above everyone. There was no way he would stand a chance here.


"This is real fashion!" the owner of Chioriya boutique shouted.


Fake magician soon calling for Congele Boutique, the early adult sprinted backstage. Everyone soon getting on the runway, spotlights hit his dress. Eyes on him, the hyena spun around and did a twirl. Melusines copying him, he swore he could hear the audience cheer. Magician saying the rivals will be presenting everything one more time, an encore kicked in. Feeling a candle inside him burn out, the chimera placed himself in the back room once more. But, as he had done so, Rabiu tugged on his dress.


"Um, your boss is demanding you leave right now," Rabiu said, lip quivering. "Uh, um, here's the clothes you came with. He wants to see you now."


Feeling time stroke towards midnight, a wave of bitter marmalade flowed through him. He couldn't stay for a little while longer to see who won the competition? But, he the soldier knew his orders were absolute. Nothing could be done. Makeup washed away, and dress removed, the soldier slumped out of the Opera House, shoulders drooped. Agent soon waiting for him outside the Opera House, his mask was soon on him.


"Alright, soldier, your cancellation of work has been rescinded," the Agent said in a commanding tone. "Go back to Snezhnaya this instant."


Knowing he had no choice but to obey, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the early adult slumped through the icy cold hallways. Reaching the soundproof room after ten minutes of walking, the hyena could feel a chill in the air once more.


Energy depleting quickly, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Everything already removed, the chimera threw himself into the uncomfortable bed. Heavy waves of disappointment throwing him for a loop, the early adult closed his eyes. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, one thought looped on repeat.


The magic is over.

 

[Palamon]

35. Poisson's Deepest Seeds, Pirate Aigre, Treasure Bleeding

"Alright, Your Majesty,
Look this is
Really getting out of hand here.
I don't quite
Get it. My orders aren't making sense.
How am I supposed to deal with sudden growths?
Though, I suppose this is


Nothing I haven't already dealt with. They're
Over in the Belleau Region
Why here? I don't know


There is always something somewhere.
Hah. Guess I got my work cut out for me.
It's another one of those
Noxious growths I suppose, haha
No more of this poison nonsense,
Stop with


All of this, please.
Right, right, no complaining.
Every order I get is absolute.


Just deal with things as they are,
Ultimately, I know complaining is forbidden.
So, don't utter any.
Take a moment to


Get familiar with my order.
Eh. So, what are
These growths anyway? Where did
They come from?
I don't know.
Nothing makes sense anymore
Guess I haven't been around Fontaine enough lately.


Something about this feels off.
There is something
Rather strange
About all this, and
I am starting to suspect it's all
Getting worse.
How much worse?
This remains to be seen.


Up until now, it has been
Pretty chaotic.


Really chaotic. And,
It's just starting to
Deviate even worse.
I don't know I
Can hardly fathom this at all.
Ugh. Well,
Looks like everything is just
Out of control
Unless I am mistaken?
Something tells me I might be.


Get with the new normal,
Relatively speaking,
Over the years
Wild happenings have
Truly been escalating.
How much, and when?
Since I reached adulthood,


I suppose. Or,
No. Perhaps not.


Far longer than that.
Or maybe it was the domain incident.
No. Before that.
This all started
After the Natlan
Incident. Before that,
Nothing quite mattered much.
Everything was nothing.


All I did was a whole lot of
Nothing. Deliveries around Dragonspine.
Yes, absolutely nothing.
Obviously, I remember that.
No, perhaps I am merely.
Exaggerating. Perhaps I am.


Even so, it is difficult to deny the
Long amount of time I have
Stuck in this Fatui world.
Eight years, almost and


Counting. I have far been
Over the time of anything being normal.
Uh, well, that's how it is.
Look. I guess my life has never been ordinary.
Do I look ordinary? I am a chimera.


Do I blame my parents for the way I was hidden? No, not
Especially. I know they had
A lot of reasons.
Listen, it's fine really.


Why question any of
It? I am grateful for
The life my parents gave me.
How could I ever not?


So much will always change
Obviously, I know
My chaotic fatui life will be full of
Eccentricities. Forever, and always.
There is
Hardly any time for me to have an
Inkling over what any of these
Noxious, possibly toxic
Growths might be.


Looks like they're only
In Belleau, anyway. But, I
Know they'll start spreading
Everywhere. Or, will


They? I guess I will
Have to see
And deal with
Them as they are


So, here's to everything
Obviously, I know it


Will be difficult.
How difficult? I have
Yet to determine any outcome.


Maybe it will be simple.
Everything starts out such a way.


Eh. Well. It is time to deal with it, so
Here I go.


Will these growths attack me?
Hard to say, but I
Aught to prepare for
That possible outcome.
Everything could quickly go
Vile. I know that.
Everything could quickly go
Rogue, I know


That. This
Is nothing I am not used to.
Maybe it will all go fine.
Everything will be fine.


This is nothing I cannot handle
Onward to Belleau


Get ready for growth extermination.
Onwards towards the Morte Region


I am ready for everything.


Get ready,
Unleash myself upon
Each and every weed.
Say nothing, and work hard.
Silence is key."


Four days have passed since the hyena dealt with underwater legends around Fontaine. Fog not returning at any given point, one day of business affairs of nothing overtook twenty four hours. But, something rather peculiar had taken over the next days following the previous.


Workdays out of nowhere cancelled for the next three days, the world cracked a smidgeon. Not having any responsibilities, the hyena had no clue on what to do. Not wishing to search for Hase, the soldier proceeded to head off to Fontaine with absolutely nothing in mind.


But, such nothing had immediately turned into something. Fontaine Fashion week being in full overdrive, the penguin family required the soldier's assistance to defeat her rivals of Chioriya Boutique, it was off to the races. Three days of high octane chaos, the soldier uncovered foul play, corruption and stolen equipment. Winner determined on the third day, the early adult learned how the fashion world worked.


The sound of bitter wind roared out like a wolf howling upwards towards the moon. As the windows kept on rattling up a storm, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in a chorus. The month long blizzard was about to make itself eight times worse. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Windows continuing to rattle, the early adult added his own groans to the mix. Yet another month long blizzard was about make the mornings less bearable. But, the early adult knew he could not sit around, or he would suffer dangerous freezing. Lifting himself up from the stone hard covers, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


Wind roaring once more, the early adult turned his attention towards the window. Seeing an aurora in the sky, the early adult scratched his chin. Why was the sky so colorful today? It was morning. This should not be happening. But, the early adult shrugged. What did he know? He knew absolutely nothing about the permafrost north. Moving away from the window, the soldier moved himself towards his uniform drawers.


As the soldier's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the soldier could not help but wonder. The abyssal gazelles, could they have been in Snezhnaya right now? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Why would those two ever come here? If Her Majesty were to bare witness to cause chaos to her land, she would have them be killed almost immediately.


But, the early adult shook his head. The abyssal gazelles, dying? That had to have been impossible. They had to have changed the way their bodies functioned to make themselves beyond mortal. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. Why did it matter? He was overthinking it. There was no way that was possible at any given point.


Work mode switch flipping upward, the hyena removed the cover off his hairpin and earring box. Clicking the weaponized jewelry and accessory into place, matching black hearts adorned his hair and ears. Staring at his others within the container, the chimera sighed. Was turning his prized possessions into weapons what he truly wanted? Rational brain on at the moment, regret flowed through the hyena. What's done was done. He could not go back in time and reverse his decision.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the early adult's Geo Delusion glared daggers at the soldier. Staring back at it, the early adult glared back. The sinister yellow orb, should he make use of it? But, the soldier pushed the object away. The time had not come yet to make use of it. It had been far too early, for sure.


Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the early adult shrugged his shoulders. Whenever the time were to arise to make use of the delusion, he would do so. But, he knew how was not the time. Using it could wait, for sure. But, he knew if he were ordered to, he would have no choice. But, for now, the stars had yet to align themselves in the sky.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp onward with a fervor, the soldier put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You must go around the Belleau and Morte region and clear out mysterious invasive tree growths. Make sure you exterminate every single one of them to remain in good graces with the Hydro Archon." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Another day, another separate affair.


Siorc jumped ten steps back upon hearing he would have to get rid of trees around Fontaine. He has to go engage in deforestation? No. Why did he have to do something like that? How incredibly cruel. Was this a punishment for not performing well on some missions? If such were the case, a different penalty should be picked, for sure.


Words exterminate and tree ringing in his ears, the early adult stared off into space. Destroy trees, get rid of invasive growths that looked like a tree. No way, there was absolutely no way he would do something like that. How could Her Majesty give him such an order? He was not nature's enemy.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be exterminating invasive tree growths around the Belleau Region today!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "We don't have time for this dawdling! Get a move on!"


The soldier flinched. Of course he had heard him, he wished he hadn't. Right, he had to go exterminate some invasive trees, he didn't have a choice in the matter. He knew, that if he disobeyed orders at any given point, Her Majesty would kill him. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult turned towards the Agent.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Arm out in front of him, the chimera waited for gripping prison to take him away.


"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him the masked Agent gripped the limb into a tight lock. Gripping prison as tight as a shark not letting go of its prey, the early closed his eyes as the escort towards Fontaine soon began.


Getting rid of trees?


Why? Why did he have to go around and do such a thing?


He wanted no part in this.


***


"This is one of the worst weeks of my life.
Ha, why is that? Well, to put it simply.
Everything happened on this day some years


Ago. And because of that,
Now, Aigre is mentally back into her terrible teens? Terrible twos?
No one knows.
It has been
Very difficult to determine for quite awhile now.
Every year since the incident, we
Ready ourselves to pray to the Hydro Archon
So Aigre could perhaps go back to
A state of normalcy. But, we
Rarely try to push her.
Yet, we never lose hope that


One day, she will recover
From what cause her reverse back to her childhood days.


Obviously, we know we cannot force to behave like an adult,
Ultimately, I now we cannot.
Right, well, it's about to get a lot worse. I cannot


Place my faith in any
Archon during this time of year.
Really, wish I could, but
Everyone knows you
Need to make an appointment with
The Hydro Archon or
Something like that. I am


Doubtful she would
Ever glance at Kali or
Aigre, or even I.
There's no way, I don't think we
Have barely any Mora.


I just do the occasional odd job here and
There. She would most likely just say,


'I do not want to breathe the
Same air as poor people!'


Apologies for being poor. I


Don't have any control over the status of our wealth,
And it'll likely never improve.
Yes, I know that


This is not necessarily true,
Or it will be the same forever,


Maybe something will improve,
Or maybe it won't,
Until then, not much will
Really change.
Not much will get better.


Aigre will always be the same. And now things


During this period of the year
Are about to get worse. I want to do something
Yet, I know during


This time, she can't ever hear me
Or Kali. Always locked into her imagination.


Could it be worse than last year?
Relatively speaking, it is,
Yes. But, all and


All, both Kali and I know it's
Not easy to break her out of her imagination, so we
Don't know where to tread. We usually


Yield, and let her wander, but lately,
Everything has been far more dangerous lately.
There has been quite a long of things


I cannot even begin to describe happening.


Cannot fathom anything.
All that has been happening I have
No words. None, whatsoever.
None that would be able to make sense
Of any of this.
There's been quite a lot of


Strange occurrences lately. And, I think
Even Aigre, deeply buried in her own imagination is starting to notice.
Eh, but, what can I do?
Maybe it is best


To just ignore it,
Or something.


For the most part, I don't think
I can really do anything
Not much of anything, anyway. This is far too
Dangerous for us.


Even though my gut is telling me I
Need to deal with it.
Eh, or, perhaps not.
Right, well, to be honest, these oddities are
Getting far too out of hand.
You know, some people have been rumbling


Throughout the land saying
Our Archon must be angry. Could


She be? Well, what would I know?
How could I know something like this?
Eh. You know, let me be real for a moment.
Do I find the Hydro


Archon reliable? No.


She hardly does much of anything.
I have heard she almost
Never solves any crisis. Or maybe that's just jokes. I don't
Get that, if so.
Look, I am trying to fathom it. But,
Even as I try to, I just don't cannot. But,


That is not something for me to worry about.
Eh, it is what it is,
And there is not much I can
Really do. Rumors are rumors, and they'll always fly high. That's just how it is. It is difficult to deny."


Teleport Waypoint taking him to the desert edges as usual, the hyena gazed upwards towards the sky. Feeling a chill drop down his spine, the chimera's will dropped down to nothing. Why did he have to go and destroy trees? This was the worst possible order he could ever receive. But, he knew it could have been worse.


Dragged down the mountain, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. He knew he had to get over his disdain right here, right now. Agent yelling at him to focus as he had been placed in the wooden vessel, the hyena flinched. Right, he had to stay focused. He was on the nonexistent clock.


Vehicle of human movement cruising forward, the young soldier could not help but wonder. Why did it have to be trees? Couldn't the growths have been something else? Surely, that had to have been the case. Or, so the hyena hoped. Perhaps, just maybe, the growth had been something else entirely.


Boat drifting ever so closer towards the harbor, the chimera stared off into space. He knew, no matter what he would have to face, he would have no choice but to deal with it. Disobeying orders would equal his death. He could not allow for such outcome to ever arise.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor after about fifteen minutes, the soldier had been dragged off towards the staircase, as usual. Agent reminding him for what felt like the undecillionth time to not teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the hyena wished to bite that hand that fed. Just how many times could the Agent repeat this? He knew already. Could he ever stop repeating this every single time he was taken here? But, the annoyance had soon switched to information he never expected to hear.


Agent soon informing him the Hydro Archon has requested an audience with him, the early adult tilted his head towards the sky. Who wished to have an audience with him? He was not quite sure he had been hearing that correctly. Placing his hand over his ear, the hyena blinked.


Words repeated to him the Hydro Archon requested an audience with him in Palais Mermonia, a satchel had soon been slammed onto his backside. Agent soon exiting the area, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. He had to go do some sort of diplomatic work as well? How tiresome. He was hardly fit for such a role.


Hearing a lot of noise as he headed up the staircase, the hyena jumped two steps back. What in the world was all that racket? Taking a deep breath, the early adult attempted to tune everything out around him. Taking the glass lift, as usual, the cacophony had only continued to increase as the second moved onward.


Entire area covered to the brim with people head to toe in fashionable outfits buzzing loudly about many other boutiques all at once, the chimera covered his ears. Why were so many people talking so loudly all at once? But, the early adult knew he had to bear with it.


Multiple people discussing that Congele Boutique was having a discount sale, the soldier's ears perked. What in the world was going on? A sale already? But, the early adult shook his head. Maybe business had increased by quite a lot since the competition had wrapped up one day prior.


Aquabus arriving shortly, every single rich generic person barreled on like a pack of wolves who hadn't eaten in days. Everyone racing ahead, the soldier had nearly fallen off the ledge. Melusine tour guide telling everyone one at a time, absolutely no one listened. Seating himself on the furthest edge of the vessel, it soon moved forward.


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, the buzzings had reached their maximum capacity. Everyone talking about fashion for minutes on end, the chimera stared off into space. Maybe he hardly knew anything about the fashion world to know how much of anything worked.


As the vessel reached the halfway point, the soldier's mind had begun to wander. Why had he bene the one who had to negotiate with the Hydro Archon? He was hardly the person for the job whatsoever. Couldn't someone else have been assigned this mission? But, the hyena shook his head. His orders were absolute. There was nothing that could be done.


Reaching the capital city before he could even fathom it, everyone up front barreled off the vessel all at once. Melusine once again telling everyone to calm down, one at a time, her shouts had gone unheard. Chaos unfolding, the soldier remained seated, for a moment. This Melusine had to have had the most stressful job of all time, for sure.


Noise dying down, the early adult removed himself from the wooden vessel. Hustle and bustle hitting the streets as he stepped off, the hyena let out a sigh. It was a busy day, wasn't it? There was absolutely no way he would be able to slink on by without being spotted. But, he supposed that's how it was a majority of the time. Avoiding such was simply impossible.


Knowing he had no choice but head off towards Palais Mermonia, the soldier attempted with all his might to blend in with the crowd. But, such had been impossible, in a matter of moments. Almost everyone wearing the fanciest of all clothing, the soldier stuck out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls.


As the early adult walked upon the northern path, the questions had begun to roll around deep within the chambers of his partially human brain. Why had he been the one chosen to have an audience with the Hydro Archon? Something wasn't quite right with this. Surely, there had to have been someone else that had to have been told do deal with negotiations.


But, the early adult shook his head. He was the one who had to deal with the diplomatic affairs. How he felt on such matters wasn't important. He was nothing more than a pawn, a chess piece upon the board. Something to use and discard once dissatisfied.


Snapping himself out of it, the hyena kept walking upon the northern path. What in the world was he thinking? He would not be discarded of. There was no way that would happen. His imagination had been running far too wild. If such were the case, he would have been tossed out a long time ago.


Getting himself together, the early adult drowned his thoughts out. He hardly had time to be worrying about such things. He needed to move along or the Hydro Archon would cross with him for being late to her meeting. She had been quite the dramatic person, or god, rather. If he were even two seconds late, he would never hear the end of it, guaranteed.


Crowd continuing to chatter for minutes on end, the early adult kept tuning them out. The city was far too busy for its own good. Just how many rich people lived in Fontaine? The chimera did not know, but it had to have been reaching around the thousands, for sure. The world of Mora had been beyond his understanding.


Curving towards the westward path, the the soldier could not help but ponder. What could the Hydro Archon possibly want to speak to him about? He had never interacted with the Gods of other nations before. But, he supposed he would soon find out upon reaching the area.


Hearing the sound of multiple people shouting there had been a seventy-five percent discount at Chioriya Boutique, the soldier jumped six steps back. Three fourths of a one hundred percent off? Hadn't that been far too much? But, the soldier threw such thoughts out. What did he know? He had been far removed from the world of retail business.


Screams only getting louder, the early adult's eyes twitched. Why was everyone so incredibly loud today? Shouts ramping up the pace, the hyena sighed. The advertisements would keep going, wouldn't they? He needed to tune it all out. He was not the target audience for the fashion.


"All styles seventy-five percent off!" one of Chioriya Boutique's employees shouted. "Unlike Congele boutique!"


Hearing such, the the early adult let out another sigh. He sees now. This was all just a competition. It was nothing he hadn't already known. Couldn't the Chioriya and Congele boutique find a middle ground? But, the hyena knew he would never understand how things were between them. It was time to move on. It was best to not involve himself in this clothbath.


Moving upon the westward path, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. He did not know why, but the fear was baking him into a pie. This meeting, what would it entail? Every single order lately had been so vague. But, he supposed he had been used to it. Such was the life of a Fatui soldier.


Nervous energy flowing through him even further, the soldier could feel his will begin to sway. He was not suited for the art of negotiation. No matter how many times he had to deal with diplomatic affairs, the Agent would always take over every single time, without fail. His voice was dirt upon the wind.


Moving towards the southern path, the hyena attempted with all his might to calm his nerves. It would only be a brief meeting, for sure. It wouldn't even last more than fifteen minutes. He needed to get it together, and move forward. No more fretting over it. Moving past the blacksmith, the soldier threw his fears away.


Aquabus information station coming up close, the hyena's legs erupted into a sprint. It was time to hurry. He had to get to the meeting before it was too late. Dashing off towards the fountain, the soldier could hear a grating voice in the background. Sliding his feet upon the concrete, an unsurprising face awaited him.


Spotting Earl in the corner advertising all outfits at the Congele Boutique were half off, the hyena stared at the fountain in front of him. Only fifty percent off? No wonder Chioriya Boutique had been doing better in most of the Fashion Week sales. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. What did he care? It hardly mattered to him. Pesky penguin looking his way, the hyena let out a barely audible groan. Why couldn't he ever be free from this family, even for a day?


Seeing Siorc walk on by, Earl could feel hearts form in his eyes. He's back in Fontaine again today? It was so nice to see him here again so soon! Had he, perhaps come here to take him out on a date? He could feel himself about to fall backwards. He was single, and ready to mingle. It was time to break today's ice.


"Hi there, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "You're back already? It's nice to see you again today!"


Earl's grating voice ringing in his ears, the hyena could feel a blood vessel about to pop inside him. It was not nice to see him again at all. He needed to hold all his nonexistent horses. It had only been twenty four hours. When would he finally learn he would never have interest in him? He would need to brush him off gently.


"Sorry, sir, I have an important meeting with Focalors," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. But, as he said such, screams had come his way.


"Wow, the Focalors?" Earl asked in astonishment. "My future husband is about to be famous!"


Turning his heelless shoes off towards the opposite direction, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the sky. Would this pesky penguin give it up already? He would never marry him, not even if he was the last surviving person in all of Teyvat. But, he knew he would never get the picture.


Heading towards the information station, the soldier wondered. Why had Earl been so infatuated with him? It hardly made any sense to him. He had never shown any interest back. Shouldn't feelings that had not been returned fizzled out by now? He had not, even once in the past five months responded to his feelings. How annoying.


But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. He hardly understood how the heart worked. He was a soldier. His ring was forced to his job. He knew, that's how it would always be, no matter how long he were to remain under Her Majesty's ruling thumb. But, another name soon combed through his partially human mind as he pushed towards the stairs.


Nervous jackal chimera floating around in his mind shore, the soldier could not help but wonder. Rabiu, did it annoy him that he was also interested in him? But, the hyena shook his head. He supposed it did not really bother him as much. The researcher jackal was not aggravating, in the slightest. But, the early adult knew he would never be able to start a relationship with a non Fatui. A target would be placed on his back for sure if he were to do so.


Taking a long deep breath, the chimera pressed onward towards the Aquabus information station. It was best to stop thinking about such things. He would never be allowed to experience the world of romance while being a member of the Fatui. He was Her Majesty's property. If he were to at any given moment see someone, he would be given one fast ticket to death city.


Station as busy as ever, the soldier blinked. Was it just him, or had it been far busier than normal here today? Multiple people far and wide asking for Aquabus hours the chimera adjusted his glasses. Had it ever been this packed before? The chimera did not believe so, but there was no time to think about such things.


Moving towards the glass box, the early adult prepared himself. Any moment now, and he would be in the presence of another nation's god. Stepping towards the elevator, the hyena took one final deep breath. It was time to get his meeting over with once and for all.


But when the glass doors opened themselves, a face he did not expect to see hopped out. Head of the special security patrol musket out in front of her, the early adult could feel a shock shoot down his spine. What was going on, why was her pistol out? Had she just fired it at someone? Eyes soon on him, the chimera grit his teeth. What could she possibly wanted from him? He wasn't guilty.


"Sir, have you witnessed any crimes committed by masked individuals?" the leader of the special security patrol asked.


Hearing such inquiry, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. Had he seen any masked individuals committing any crimes? He had seen far too many generic faces to notice anything unusual. Words continuing to float around for the moment, he had come to a realization. She had to have been inquiring about the Fatui. If he were to squeal, it would be game over.


Bowing an apology, the early adult shook his head. Masked individuals committing crimes? He had never heard of such a thing in his entire twenty years of existing. Nope. Never. Special security patrol glaring daggers at him, the soldier could feel sweat pour down his back. Shaking his head once again, the woman let out a sigh.


"Is that so?" the special security patrol officer asked, uncertain tone in her voice. "Well, let me know if you see anything suspicious."


Nodding, the officer soon stepped out of the way. Pressing onwards towards the glass lift, the soldier stared off into space. There had been more criminals around Fontaine lately? Just what was going on here? There had never been a moment of peace in the Hydro Nation of Justice, was there?


Glass box passing through the second floor, the hyena's mind kept on wandering. Everything had been quite off kilter lately. But, he supposed it had always been the same as ever. Chaos had been normal, and expected at this point. Nothing had been out of the ordinary.


Reaching the fourth floor, the soldier sauntered onward. Melusine awaited his presence near the Palais Mermonia entrance, the hyena let out a gulp. Sea denizen staring at him, sweat poured down his brow. Had he been late? If such had been the case, he would need to apologize immediately.


"Monsieur Siorc, there you are," the Melusine said. "Please, come to Sir -----------'s office right away."


Melusine escorting him into the building, the soldier swore hundreds of eyes were staring at him all at once. Multiple rich people whispering why was a Fatuus getting an audience with the Iudex? Multiple people laughing, or suggesting probably hazing the early adult could feel icicles ready to freeze him.


People continuing to whisper as the door drew ever so closer, the questions returned themselves to the hyena's brain. Why him? Why did he have to have an audience with another nation's god? Everyone was staring at him. Door opened to the Iudex's office, the chimera took one final deep breath. But, what awaited him was a brand new level of confusion unlocked.


Hydro Archon seated on the couch in a cross legged position eating a cake tower in front of her, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it dessert time? Maybe he should turn around and let her have her snacks. But, the Iudex's eyes had soon wandered towards him.


"He is here, Lady ------," the Iudex said in an important tone. But, a complaint had come his way.


"I'm eating my cake right now!" the Hydro Archon complained. "Our little meeting can wait!"


"Do not waste the diplomat's time, Lady ------," the Iudex responded.


Knowing how important cake was to the Hydro Archon, the early adult placed his hands up in the air in a stop position. Maybe the meeting could wait for a few more minutes. Patience was a virtue no other Fatui had. Shaking his head, the soldier put his hands out in front of him. Signing let her finish her cake for only the Chief Justice to see, the early adult swore the man's face shifted, for a moment.


"Monsieur Siorc, are you sure?" the Iudex asked. "I know you are a very busy man."


Question coming his way, the early adult blinked. Was it really unusual for him to be fine with waiting a moment? But, he supposed the Fatui were known for their impatience and violence. Giving the Iudex a nod, he had soon been told to take a seat. Doing so, the early adult stared off into space, for a moment.


Watching as the Hydro Archon wolfed down multiple little confectionaries one after another, the soldier could feel a sweatdrop pour down his cheek. Focalors should be the cake archon instead. But, the early adult kept such thoughts to himself. There was no way he could ever say such a thing, or he would be thrown in the Fortress of Meropide forevermore.


Cake tower getting smaller, the soldier swore he could hear her yawn. Stretching her arms outward, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Did she forget she had requested an audience with him? He supposed he didn't blame her. He had not said a word. But, a shout had soon come the Hydro God's way.


"Lady ------!" the Iudex shouted. "Remember, you're in a meeting with a diplomat right now!"


"Ugh, fine!" the Hydro Archon whined. She then turned towards the diplomat in question. "This is the diplomat they sent?!"


"That would be correct," the Iudex responded. "Is that a problem?"


"Yes, Monsieur -----------!" the Hydro Archon exclaimed. "He looks weak!"


Hearing such, the early adult held back a groan. So what if he looked weak, what did that matter? He didn't need to hear that from a god who almost never dealt with any of her nation's problems. But, the early adult knew he couldn't say that. One wrong word, and all relations between the Hydro and Cryo Archons would be shattered to pieces.


"Lady -----!" the Iudex scolded. "That comment is quite unnecessary!"


"Ugh, fine! I'm sorry!" the Hydro Archon exclaimed in a inflammatory tone. She then turned towards the soldier. "There's been some ridiculous crimes committed in the Belleau Region by some masked criminals! Go find them and bring them down!"


Hearing such, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. That's it? That's all she wanted to say to him? He had already heard about this. Couldn't she have asked the bird chimera bounty hunters? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He had no choice in the matter. Giving the Archon a nod, her gloves clapped together.


"Then, get right to it!" the Hydro Archon exclaimed. "Chop chop!"


Iudex soon calling him over to this desk, the soldier removed himself from the opposite couch in the corner. Apology coming his way, and an axe handed off second, a wave of confusion flowed through him once more. Why was he being handed such a weapon? If he had to completely chop the trees from their stump, he would do no such thing. Surely, a light hit would be more than enough for extermination.


"Proceed with caution, young man," the Iudex warned. "It is quite dangerous in the Belleau Region, at this particular moment in time."


Heeding such warning, the chimera nodded. Exiting the Palais Mermonia, the soldier had begun walking back towards the glass lift of which he came. But, as he had done so, multiple questions had begun to race around in his head like the floating points were running a marathon.


The Hydro Archon, why wasn't she doing anything about the so called problematic growths that were spotted in the Belleau Region? Wasn't it her job to keep her citizens safe from any danger? But, the soldier shook his head. These issues were probably far too little for her to allow for godly intervention.


Taking the elevator downward towards the first floor, another set of thoughts dragged him downwards into the sand. The chimera did not know why, but he couldn't sense any sort of power radiating from the Hydro Archon whatsoever. But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. Maybe she was just hiding her powers from everyone until she was needed in times of crisis.


Reaching the Aquabus once more after about ten minutes of walking, the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward. Staring at the Belleau Region from afar, the chimera shrugged. The Hydro Archon was far too busy with other matters to ever deal with whatever else might be going on around the region. That had to have been it, surely. She had been a celebrity, after all.


Reaching the halfway point towards Romaritime Harbor after about half an hour, the early adult deployed his wind glider. Jumping downward towards the ground, the wind roared up a fierce storm. Hearing such, the chimera's legs shook. Where was he, in Mondstadt? Where in the world had this sudden gust come from?


But, as the chimera staged his landing, a peculiar tree like growth appeared in the corner of his eye. Spotting an island on the top of it, the early adult scratched his head. That was supposed to be a tree? Whoever had told the Agent such had been so incorrect, they needed glasses twice as much as he did.


Lowering his eyes into a squint, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. That so called tree had to have been a beanstalk, without question. He supposed he did not mind having to exterminate such a thing. He recalled in a storybook he read in his stolen childhood such had been a highly invasive growth hosted by violent giants.


Staring at the beanstalk from afar for a little while longer, multiple questions fired off one after another. Where in the world had these large vined planes come from? He did not know why, but this did not have the Abyssal Gazelles written all over it. This kind of interruption in the ecosystem of the world was far from something they would ever do. There was nothing destructive about it whatsoever.


Moving along, a thought of terror wormed itself around the hyena's inhuman eardrums. That beanstalk looked like, that, at any given moment, it would come alive and release snakes from its deepest pits. He needed to proceed with as much caution as possible, or he would be reptile food.


Hearing screams off in the distance, the hyena's heart skipped two beats. Why did he hear Aigre just now? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. It was nothing, surely. She was just playing her childish games like she always was. There was no reason for concern.


As the beanstalk had begun to get ever so closer, a commotion had begun to break out for the population of absolutely no one to witness. Hilichurls making terrified noises one after another, the hyena blinked. Just what game was the youngest sea lion, excuse him, mermaid, doing? Was she playing tag?


Monsters continuing to run away in terror, the early adult turned towards the primitive creatures for a moment. Just who or what were they running from? Aigre nowhere to be seen, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Was there some invisible enemy somewhere? Wherever they were, he supposed he would find out shortly.


Hilichurls only running faster, the soldier could see their backsides get sacrificed one after another. But, what he had soon bore witness to was the shock of he ages. Multiple beans shot out of nowhere, many Hilichurls bodies had been offered as sacrifices to the tall stalk of doom up above.


Monsters fading into the ether one after another, the chimera shook his head. What were these beans made out of to stop an entire army of enemies in their tracks? Beans coming his way, as well, the early adult jumped off towards the left. He would not become the next victim of bean warfare.


Reaching the beanstalk after an hour of evasive dodging, multiple monster corpses laid down upon the ground near the new growth. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult prepared himself. What could possibly be up on top of this vined island? He supposed he was about to find out.


Hearing shouts once again off in the distance, the soldier almost lost his grip upon the vines. But, the early adult kept his focus forward. Whatever Aigre was screaming about up ahead, it was no business of his whatsoever. Why focus on it? He had far bigger fish to fry, at the moment.


But, what awaited the soldier upon the top of the beanstalk had been nothing at all what he expected. Large bean creatures up on top with a large amount of hostile energy going about them, the soldier tilted his head. This was the master of this invasive group? Was he some star in some gag story about locating nose hair, or something?


Beans with button eyed faces about the size of a full grown adult male adorning bazookas aplenty and large pairs of paints and red boots, the early adult backed four steps away towards the edge of the invasive growth. These creatures, what in the world were they? Objects of many oddities looking ready to go in for the kill, the chimera sifted through his satchel, for a moment.


Fatui issued Greatsword seated above his diving equipment, the chimera placed himself into a fighting stance. It was time for bean versus hyena. Beans screaming about a new victim, the soldier let out a sigh. Was he in some sort of child's storybook, or something? But, his thoughts had soon been cut off as the sound of a magazine loaded itself up.


Beans shooting his way one after another, the soldier jumped to the left. Beans making a loud plink as they hit the ground, the early adult's jaw dropped straight open. What were these things made out of, metal? This was far more ridiculous than anything the abyssal gazelles ever created on a daily basis.


Projectiles coming his way one after another, the early adult placed his blade out in front of him. Beans coming his way in rapid fire, the soldier jumped three steps back. Weapon swung with full force, the objects had been sent flying back towards the direction of which they came.


First bean taken out of the equation, the early adult huffed a breath. Who was responsible for this? The chimera did not know, but whoever it had been must have been extremely hungry, or something. Second enemy looking ready to fire projectiles his way, the chimera was ready for action.


Steel inedibles fired back towards the enemy another bean soon bit the dust. Rest of the army's legs soon quivering, the early adult's blade swung with a fervor. It was time to put these creatures out of the picture. Slashes picking up the pace, nothing stood a chance of survival.


Final set of enemies put to rest, the early adult let out a huff. What was that all about just now? These enemies were quite the unusual bunch. There had been no abyssal energy flowing through them whatsoever. Who, or what made them? He could sense a heavy wave of uncertainty flow through him.


But, as his thoughts had begun to roll, the young soldier could hear the sound of something raise upward somewhere. Hearing such, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. What in the world was happening now? Noises only getting louder, the hyena turned towards the cacophony.


Large, blue glowing door out in front of him, the early adult flinched. No, not another labyrinth. Anything but another labyrinth. Why had these still been popping up? He swore he had finished dealing with such in Liyue already. Had the problem spread to Fontaine? How bothersome. But, he knew he had no choice but to deal with it. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.


Stepping towards the door, a blinding light soon engulfed the solder. Closing his eyes, the soldier steeled himself. What kind of world would await him beyond the door this time? Whatever it was, he needed to deal with it as quick as he could possibly muster. He had a beanstalk to chop down.


Opening his eyes once more, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes. Finding himself in a large expansive forest, he tilted his head off towards the green sky. Where had he been transported to, Sumeru? Knowing he had to find the exit right away, the early adult moved forward through the grass. But, as he had done so, something of peculiar note caught his attention.


Feeling a heavy wave of sorrow in the air, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Something was not right here. Why did it feel like he had been at the scene of someone's funeral? But, the chimera shook such feelings off. That couldn't have possibly been it. He had to have been imagining it, for sure.


Shrugging, the soldier proceeded through the labyrinth. Grass getting longer and more unkempt the further he went, the hyena let out a disgusted noise. Couldn't someone maintain the nature in here? Absolutely awful. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. No one lived here. Who could possibly be able to maintain it?


Moving through the area, the soldier could hear pirates laughing off in the distance. Hearing such, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. There were other people in this space? He had to have been transported into another world where the only people that existed were criminals upon the high grasses.


Grass crunching beneath his feet, the early adult could hear swashbuckling aplenty. Egos firing themselves up like a rifle on the air, the hyena could feel three of his braincells die all at once. Were these people talking about who could pop the biggest bubble? How incredibly childish. What children's storybook had he fallen into? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense.


Pathway soon blocked by a red haired man with a hook for a hand and pitch black pirate hat, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just him, or had this man been staring directly at him? Redhead cracking his knuckles, the hyena gulped. What was with that side eye he was getting?


"Arrg matey, how dare ye intrude upon the holy land!" the redhead screamed. As he said such, the hook upon his hand shook.


Hearing such accusation come his way, the early adult crossed his arms around his waist. He was intruding upon what now? What about this place was a holy land? If it were some land of the gods, it was most certainly unbefitting of such title. Staying put, he swore he could see steam come out of the pirate's ears.


"Arrg, matey, yer askin' for it!" the pirate shouted.


Pirate's hook hand soon turning into a sword, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes. What was happening? Had he stepped into some world of fiction? Just what was going on here? He could hardly fathom any of this at all whatsoever. Hostilities coming his way, the chimera placed his blade out in front of him.


Swords clashing with one another for minutes on end, the chimera broke into a cold sweat. Intense red light overtaking the fight for a portion of it, the hyena closed his eyes. Did this pirate have the power of light within him, or something? How annoying. But, he supposed he should not have expected a high seas criminal to play fair.


Multiple attacks taking him for a ride all at once, the early adult let out a scream. What in the world was all this nonsense? This had to have been the strangest fight he had partaken in in quite awhile. But, he knew he had to give it his all no matter what. Looking for an opening, the hyena remained vigilant.


Pirate letting down his guard after about three clashes of blades, the chimera aimed for the hips. Pirate's defenses down after about seven strikes, he had soon surrendered. Told to continue through the holy land, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the green sky. What holy land? This place had been far from that, for sure.


Continuing onward, multiple other pirates had challenged him for the unholiest land of them all. Army of ruffians defeated after about two hours of fighting, the chimera held back the urge to roll his eyes once more. He did not know why, but this domain had felt like something a child would wish up.


Realization coming through, a wave of shock flowed through the chimera. This subspace area, could the child who wished it up have been Aigre? If such were the case, everything made sense, in a matter of moments. Continuing onward, multiple empty corridors with golden coins had been moved through.


Many pirates slain one after another, the hyena huffed a breath. He did not know why, but the battles had begun to get tiring. Knowing he could not stop to rest, the soldier sauntered onward. Surely, the exit would soon be up ahead. He needed to keep going and look for it.


Reaching a room with a thick, red door and a large light brown treasure chest locked by some red runic symbols, the early adult blinked. Was this the treasure of the pirate proclaimed holy land? Sense being made, he snapped his fingers. He sees now. He understood everything. Walking towards the treasure chest, the chimera prepared to open the trunk, but a new visitor soon rose up to the challenge.


Large creature slithering onto the scene, the chimera backed six steps away. Snake the size of a chair hissing, the early adult's heart had begun to beat hard and fast in his chest. Was this the guard of the area? He should have known there were other enemies lurking in wait.


Snake creature growing a pair of pitch black hands, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. What was going on here? Since when did snakes have hands? This had childhood storybook written all over it. Attempting to run towards the wall, the chimera's legs broke out into a speedy sprint. But, such had been cancelled in a matter of moments.


Slimy, black hands grabbing him, the soldier's neck had been claimed as a prize for the taking. Palms locking down onto him tight, the early adult's air had been removed. Everything getting tight, the chimera let out a pained gasp. World getting tighter with every given second, the world blurred.


Spun around in a circle upon the air, the chimera's damaged eyes had soon been jelly. Airborne, the chimera closed his eyes. What in the world was this strength? He had never seen this before. Back of his head gifted a heavy slam, the early adult could feel himself about to fade away as crimson jelly dropped onto his lap.


Snapping himself out of it, the early adult stood back up onto his feet. What was he doing, letting a tiny bit of blood knock him out of commission? What was he doing? Dashing back towards the snake, the young solder's feet were armed and ready. Swift punts administered, the creature had gotten a taste of its own medicine.


But, such had hardly been enough to stop the beast. Hands soon upon the soldier's ankles, he had become an attraction for no one to see. Wall and backside soon becoming one, the early adult stood upward. Body stinging, the hyena attempted to tune out the pain. Not yet. He couldn't let this creature beat him.


Axe out in front of him, an oil bulb had popped up over the soldier's head. Weapon tossed with full force, a look of surprise appeared on the enemy's face. Chopping session taking place as if he were on some cooking competition, the serpentine monster had been taken out of the equation after twenty hits.


Runic language vanishing from around the chest, the chimera undid the lock upon the trove. But, what awaited him inside removed any remaining sense within him. Pitch back pirate hat printed with the name Mauve on it, the early adult adjusted his glasses. Was that really what that said? He had to have been reading that wrong, surely.


Still seeing the word Mauve on it, the early adult picked the article of clothing up. Was this hat his? But, the hyena had perished the thought. It had to have been just a coincidence. There had to have been thousands of people in Fontaine with such a name. Dropping the treasure into his satchel, the early adult moved towards the exit.


Exiting out of the domain, the chimera hopped down towards the ground. Blond diver boy soon coming onto the scene, the hyena gazed at the young man for a moment. Why was the diver boy here? How very unusual. But, he supposed he had been heading on his way back from some sort of underwater mission. Eyes soon on him as well, he swore he could feel something off once again.


"Mr. Siorc?" the diver boy asked nervously. "Um, your boss told me you need to chop these beanstalks down." His head lowered a smidgeon. "My apologies. He believes you might have forgotten the mission."


Hearing such, the chimera blinked. Why in the world was this boy apologizing to him? Diver boy mentioning the Agent, the soldier held back the urge to let out another sigh. Had he not been working fast enough for him? He supposed he would have to pick up the pace, or Her Majesty would be disappointed in him.


Axe out in front of him, a wave of unease flowed through him. If he were to chop down this beanstalk, would a giant come out of nowhere and decimate him? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was no way that would happen. Not in a million years. Stories like that were fictional.


Chopping tool hitting the vined contraption, the chimera swore he could hear some hissing noises. But, the hyena tuned such out. He had to have been imagining it, for sure. Continuing to hammer away, the noise had only begun to get louder for minutes on end. Tuning it out, the extermination had been at its peak.


Beanstalk ripping itself apart, a surprise guest had added itself to the enemy roaster. Metallic snake letting out another hiss, the hyena's heart skipped three beats. How did that get inside here? Was this some game of random encounters in tall grass? But, the hyena shook his head. What was he saying? That wasn't it at all. Blade soon in front of him, the diver boy's voice interrupted his flow.


"I'll deal with this," the diver boy said, mechanical claymore out in front of him. "Uh, I would go ahead if I were you. You wouldn't want to make your boss angry." The hyena did not know why, but he sounded like a robot when he had said such.


Knowing the diver boy was right, the early adult moved out of the scene. There had to have been another beanstalk that he had to deal with up ahead. There was no time to deal with other distractions that might have the ability to pop up at any given point. Running towards the east, the hyena observed the area from afar.


Spotting another invasive growth somewhere past the West Slopes, the early adult prepared himself for action. Dashing upon the eastern path, the early adult swore he could see Aigre running somewhere up ahead. Seeing such, the chimera picked up the pace with all his might.


Sea lion, or mermaid rather still within his line of sight, the chimera kept on running. Seeing the young woman looking about ready to scream, alarm bells had rung in the hyena's head. Something was off here. Why had she been so far away from her sisters? Something wasn't right here. Why had she been so far from Poisson?


Running as fast as his legs could carry him, Aigre kept wandering. Eventually catching up to her, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Young lady dragging her feet like a zombie, the early adult observed every oddity presented to him like his life depended on it.


Aigre dragging herself on the pathway with dead looking eyes the soldier could hear some rather unusual things let themselves loose from the sea lion, or mermaid rather's, mouth. Hearing her say multiple of the same word on repeat for minutes on end, further red flags sprouted up from the ground.


Multiple imaginary friend's names mentioned on repeat, and Aigre repeating on a constant loop she knows, the reddest of the red flags added itself to the mix. Something was not right here, but he could not make out what it could have possibly been. Girl soon running away, the hyena had begun the chase in tandem.


Chase only getting faster, far more peculiar things had been said one after another. Hearing nonsense about treasure she could never obtain, the chimera blinked. Was she playing some sort of game? But, the soldier knew that was not it. It couldn't have possibly been. Continuing to chase her, the mumblings had only become louder.


"Your sisters told you not to wander off today," Aigre said in a weird voice. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Rubis, stop lecturing me!"


Aigre running faster, the early adult's legs had erupted into an even speedier sprint. Continuing to scream she knows over and over again, the soldier blinked. What did she know? Almost near a ledge, a shock shot down the hyena's spine. If she were to run any further, she would fall to an untimely death. He needed to call out to her and put a stop to this, right away.


"Aigre?" the hyena asked in an almost loud tone.


Aigre not hearing him, the soldier's face grew talk. Had he not been loud enough? He knew he had to speak up, no matter what. Any further, and she would all of the ledge. He couldn't allow such to happen. This could not go on. Would announcing himself as one of her pirate crew members wake her up? He knew he had to try. Pirate hat upon his head, he rose his voice to the loudest he would allow himself to.


"Aigre, it's me, your new crewmate, Mauve!" Siorc shouted.


But, his words had gone unheard once more. Aigre soon looping off towards another direction, she had been gone like the wind. Unable to find her after twenty minutes, the chimera shrugged. He supposed as the saying goes, children had too much energy. Raising the white flag, the early adult headed off towards the next growth.


Beanstalk within his field of damaged vision, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what was up with Aigre today? She did not seem like she was there today. But, the early adult threw such thought out into the ocean. She was just playing a game of chase with her imaginary friends. Nothing to see here.


As the next growth was swiftly approaching, the early adult gazed at the enemy right in front of him. Could there be another secret snake inside this creature? Climbing upward upon the thorny island, more bean monsters with their shooters awaited him. Enemies looking ready to take him out hook, line, and sinker, the defenses kicked themselves into overdrive.


Creatures taken out of the picture one after another, another door soon appeared out of nowhere. Moving towards the entrance, the early adult closed his eyes as a blinding light overtook him. Opening them shortly after, the soldier soon found himself in a strange place he had never seen before.


Finding himself in a reverse Poisson, the soldier backed five steps away. Where in the world was he? Why was he in a mirrored version of the boat city? How unusual. But, he supposed anything was possible in a subspace world. Monsters all around the area, the hyena prepared himself.


Spotting multiple sea monsters crawling around the area, the hyena unsheathed his greatsword once more. Slimy creatures aplenty decimated one after another, the early adult scratched his ears. Was it just his imagination, or did he hear Aigre's names bounced off the walls?


Multiple sea creatures turned into dust, the early adult could hear the creatures kept letting out names one after another. Hearing them cry out sissie and sisser, the chimera had to do a quadruple take. Did he just hear what he thought he heard? No, he had to have been imagining it.


Creepy crawlies one after another talking like the mermaid, the soldier's knees shook. Just what was going on here? Where in the world had he stumbled upon? Nothing was making any sense. Moving on towards the flipped world, more words that sounded familiar threw themselves out into the ring.


Young voice saying she wanted to play outside, the soldier blinked. Huh? Squid creature coming for him, he ran away at lightning speed. Bright red sea creature slithering towards him, the early adult huffed and puffed. Why did this creature have glasses? Something wasn't adding up here. But, the next sentence he heard threw him off a smidgeon.


Big pink squid shouting it was dangerous out there, the army slithered off towards him. Tendrils ready to cut him up and bake him into a pie, the soldier's axe was ready. Rapid fire defenses kicked into overdrive, the soldier could feel his energy begin to break apart. Suctioned creatures fading into the ether, one last scream had been let out.


"Sissie, sisser, you're always so mean to me!!" the red squid shouted. "Let me play outside by myself!!"


Red squid coming back to life full force, the hyena's jaw dropped straight open. It was regenerating? What was going on here? Creature squirming off towards the boat in the corner, the chimera followed it. Inky attacks of doom drenching his uniform, he let out a scream. What was he, some kind of art project? Ridiculous.


Windwheel Aster friend sent onto the battlefield, three final blows had been dealt to the squid. Enemy not returning, the early adult moved forward. Reaching the backwards boat at a rather quick pace, the treasure chest soon awaited him. Undoing the lock, an unfortunate thing soon appeared in front of him.


Multiple pieces of pirate treasure in front of him, the soldier let out a groan. What were these golden rings doing here labelled with his esteemed pirate name? One was not adding up to two. Pocketing the objects for the time being, the walls crumbled around him one after another.


Knowing he had no choice but to chop down the beanstalk, the early adult hopped downwards towards the ground. Axe doing the honors, the early adult could smell a sickeningly sour scent on the air in a matter of moments. Grip weakening, the smell had only begun to get stronger. Axe breaking free from him, the soldier fell towards the ground. Eyelids getting heavy, the chimera could stay awake no longer.


Huh?


Why did it smell like lemons?


***


"I um, went to go look for Aigre with Bain, and, uh


Guess who I saw?
Uh, what's his name again, um.
Eh, it's coming to me.
Skirk? No. That's not it.
Scoot? Not. It.


Uh, it's coming to me, it's coming to
Me. I'm terrible with names.


There it is. Skirt. Yeah, that's it.
Huh? What's that terrible scent?
It's very lemony.
Now I see. This
Guy, um, excuse me
Soldier was caught up in


Aigre's imagination transcending
Reality, or something.
Eh, so.


Where do I begin?
Oh, um, so here's the deal.
Right, so, it's the anniversary of
Some date neither of us want to look back on. And
Eh, uh. How do I say


This without sounding like I have a screw loose?
Oh, um. Uh. Give me a second.
Don't look at me like that, um, I'm thinking.
Ah, yes, thinking.
Yes, it's coming


To me, it's coming to me I swear.
Huh, well, okay,
Alright, so. Some, uh, how do I put this without sounding
Nasty? Some nerd. Ah, no. No.


Yes, you know what um, nerd is fine. Sticking with that.
Ehem, okay. Anyway.
Some nerd came by one day from
The research institute. He had one
Eye, or something. He said, um:
'Right, sorry, but it seems there's a
Dangerous level of warped subspace around here,
And I would like to investigate, is that alright with
You lovely ladies?'


And? To be honest this
Nerd? Maybe that is a little too nasty of me, um. This
Dude. No, um, too casual,


Um. You know what? Sticking with nerd.
Meh. So, anyway,


That's when I say, 'Uh.
Huh, why are you asking us about this. Um, we
Are just residents here, and stuff.'
That's what I said, but that's when he


Said back: 'That might be so, and forgive me for saying this. I
Know I may get slapped, but
It would seem one of you three is
Radiating a high amount of energy
To warp the area.' I can hear a


Grating ding. And
Uh, this nerd just keeps going. He asks something, 'There was a labyrinth that popped up recently that had some treasure go missing. Do either of
You ladies know anything about that?'


I do recall that Aigre recently wandered off into
Some domain and came out with something, but


I never saw it, so I uh, assumed she returned it? Anyway, I tell the
Nerd, 'Uh, you probably have the wrong person, sorry.' I
Very much regret saying that. Because the next day, beanstalks sprouted up everywhere.
Oh, and, don't
Look at me, I don't know why. Well, anyway. Seems Skirk? No, Skoot? No, ugh. I
Very rarely remember people's names, bear with me, alright?
Eh...I'll just call him Skirt, whatever. So, Skirt is involved in this now, too.
Don't know why he's exploring these beanstalk catacombs. But, he should, um, stop that, I think."


Waking up somewhere unknown to him, the soldier let out a scream. Where was he? Where had he been taken to? Hearing feet run towards him, the soldier reached for his glasses. Bain in the corner of the room, he let out another shout. Where had he been taken to?


"Siorc, what's wrong?" Bain asked. "Are you hurt anywhere?"


Turning his head towards the right and left, it had come to the soldier immediately. Had he been in the sea lion sister's abode? Bowing an apology, the chimera shook his head. Maybe he should not have let out such a shout. The walls had to have been much thinner paper.


"Good, I'm glad," Bain said, relief evident in her voice. "Did you kill the beanstalks for us?"


Hearing such inquiry, an even heavier wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. What did Bain have to do with any of this? Surely, this had to have been the work of someone else. The sea lion sisters did not seem to exude any powers beyond the seven. But, his thoughts had soon been interrupted as the other sister came in.


"Um, I think it happened again," Kali said, with a tone of confusion. "Bain, uh, did you feel that energy just now?"


"I did," Bain responded, nodding. She then turned towards Siorc. "Siorc, did you come across Aigre yesterday?"


Hearing such question, the soldier nodded. Removing himself from the bed, the girls looked at one another with a serious look on both their faces. Seeing such, the hyena blinked. What in the world was going on? No matter how he looked at it, something was not right here. But, the chimera threw the red flags out. It had to have been his imagination, surely. But, in a matter of moments, such suspicions were at their peak.


"About Aigre," Bain said. "We need to talk to you about that. Do you mind?"


Inquiry coming his way once again, the early adult scratched his chin. What did they have to say to him? He knew it had to have been something dire. Giving the duo a nod, they had soon escorted them into the kitchen. Girls seated themselves at the table, eyes were glued onto him.


"So, the truth is, it's the anniversary of our parent's death," Bain said in a somber tone.


"Uh? Should we be telling a stranger that?" Kali asked.


"Since he destroyed the beanstalks," Bain responded in a tired voice. "He's now involved in this whether we like it or not."


"You're right, I guess," Kali said reluctantly.


Somber words coming his way, the soldier blinked. Why did Bain share such a personal matter with him? Kali was right, they were all strangers to one another. But, if the beanstalks had really been related to this family, there was no avoiding it. He had been entangled into their mess now. It was too late to back down.


"Did Aigre ignore you when you called out to her?" Bain asked, face growing dark.


Inquiry coming his way, the early adult searched through his memories of yesterday. Aigre not responding to him, the chimera nodded. What use would it be to lie here? He knew he had to tell the whole truth. Eyes glued onto him, the sea lion sisters faces only grew darker.


"I knew it. She's trapped in her own little world," Bain said, voice cracking. "Around this time of year, Aigre gets much worse. Kind of like she shuts herself off. We need to find her! She could fall off a cliff if she's not paying attention!"


Exact fears played out right in front of him, the hyena nodded. Right, that's exactly it. If they don't find her, she could a corpse somewhere. He could not allow that to happen. He knew he owed these two a helping hand for not being able to stop her yesterday. But, a strange inquiry had soon come out of left field.


"Um, maybe we should unbury that treasure?" Kali asked.


"I guess we should do that first," Bain replied.


Hearing such, the chimera could hardly believe his ears. What did uncovering a treasure have anything to do with finding their sister? But, the hyena shook his head. These two had to have known Aigre better than anyone. Perhaps, just maybe digging up a trove would break her out of her stupor.


Meals devoured, the party of three had soon exited Poisson. Not hearing Aigre's screams anywhere from afar, the soldier's knees buckled. Had she not been anywhere nearby? If such were the case, that was not good news. Spotting more growths up ahead as well, the chimera sighed. There were more beanstalks to deal with? Lovely.


Bain and Kali commenting Aigre was definitely nearby, the soldier kept his ears open. Right, there was no chance she wasn't around. These beanstalks had everything to do with her. Aigre soon taking out a light blue compass a golden beam pointed off towards the west. Seeing such, the hyena rose an eyebrow. Didn't those instruments always point north? How unusual.


Bean monsters all across the road, the early adult took his greatsword out from inside his satchel. But, he had soon been halted in his tracks. Sea lion duo telling him to leave the battles to them, the chimera surrendered. Right, leave this to them. It was the least he could do.


Lentil creatures destroyed one after another, the soldier could hear Bain mention Aigre's imagination. Hearing such, questions rolled themselves around like a pebble on the beach. Had all of this really been Aigre's imagination? He was starting to think that was the case.


Beans tossed into their gassy grave, the hyena could hear Bain and Kali huffing and puffing up a storm. Did they really intend to do all this by themselves? Surely, they wouldn't mind he lend his assistance, even if it's for a brief moment. Enemies getting their bazookas ready, the hyena attempted to throw himself into the ring.


Sisters telling him no, the chimera sighed. If they did not want his help, then so it shall be. This was their battle. Monsters decimated one after another, the pathway had soon been cleared. Light blue compass still pointing west the group had soon kept going.


As the duo in front of him kept destroying the monsters, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was everything he was witnessing right now a part of Aigre's fantasy world? He could not fathom why, but he felt like he had been sucked into one big dream.


But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He was most certainly not dreaming. He had definitely been caught up in Aigre's fantasy world. But, the more he thought such, the less sense it made. How could someone's imagination world penetrate into reality? That made next to no sense.


Bain and Kali commenting these monsters were only getting tougher, the soldier tried once again to step up to the plate. Kali demanding he put his sword away, the early adult did so. The last thing he would wish to do is make someone cross with him right now. Such could not happen.


Beanstalk getting closer, the early adult's mind wandered off towards another option. Could this have just been another abyss plot? But, the soldier threw such thoughts out. No way that could have possibly been the case. There was no dark energy to speak of. Perhaps, just maybe, just this once, someone else had dealt the cards with this one.


Soon hearing a loud beep interrupting everything, the soldier tilted his head. Why was the compass making all those obnoxious noises? Treasure device pointing downward towards, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was that compass even accurate? It was saying the treasure was underneath the beanstalk. That could not have been right.


Bain booting up the treasure compass again, the arrow continued to point downward. Seeing such, the chimera climbed upwards towards the island above the beanstalk. It looks like he would have no choice but to clear out the labyrinth up above. Bain and Kali soon following, the chimera closed his eyes as the blinding light overtook him.


Finding himself in a large room with a dock and pirate ship, the soldier blinked. Had he reached another place that had been a fragment of Aigre's imagination? He could sense a heavy off feeling in the air. Moving forward, something of particular note had soon stuck out to the soldier.


Spotting a small, short shadow person with a pirate hat on the chimera swore he could see glasses over their invisible eyes. Young voice making various pirate noises and hook soon on their hands, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. What is this? Just how deep did this imagination go?


Knowing he had to press on, the soldier moved forward. Voice of a little girl calling out pirate was her favorite game she wanted to play it forever, the early adult's knees buckled. This shadow person, she sounded so young. How far into Aigre's mind had they gone? The chimera did not know, but he knew it had to have been deeper than he could have ever bargained for. But, as they moved forward, a wave of worry flowed through the hyena.


Deep look of pain on Bain's face, the soldier's heart skipped more than four beats. Why did she look like a broken bird on a pedestal? But, the chimera threw such question away. Of course she wouldn't look in the tip top pristine shape right now. Her sister had been in some sort of danger. He would look the same if his own had been in a terrible mental state. Dragging himself forward, he stared off into space towards what lied ahead.


Seeing shadows of Aigre all around this subspace area, Bain held back the urge to break down into tears. All this time, she had been in so much pain, hadn't she? She knew Kali always told her to just let her think she was still a child, but was it really alright to let things go on like this? These memories seemed broken, jagged. But, she pulled herself together. She could get emotional in the privacy of her own room.


Bain looking about ready to cry, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Was this domain affecting her in some way, too? He supposed such would be the case. Moving right along, the shadow people had only begun to dig themselves deeper. Multiple scenes of pirate games playing out with one another, the next one took the rotten cake.


Shadows getting older, there had soon been more added to the picture. Two pitch black dolls floating in midair off the edge of a boat, the early adult could see Bain and Kali cover their hands with their faces, for a moment. Seeing such, worry plastered the chimera deep. Was something disturbing them?


Main shadow looking to be around the age of eighteen, the chimera blinked. What could be happening out in front of him? Something wasn't right here, in the slightest. Loud shouts coming from the boat in the corner, the hyena turned his attention towards it.


"Mom, dad!" the shadow screamed, hiccing and sobbing. But, through the sobs, a shell dropped onto the floor. "Mommy, aren't you a mermaid? Can't you swim, mommy?"


"Not anymore Aigre," the pitch black figure of the lady said. "I lost my ability to swim sometime after I became pregnant with you."


"What do you mean you can't swim anymore mommy?!" the shadow of Aigre asked. "You told me mermaids could swim forever!"


"Sorry, baby, mommy never told you this," the lady figure said in a somber tone. "But mommy's nerves got very sick when you were ready to come out. You know that cane I'm always using?"


"You mean that cool pirate cane?" the shadow of Aigre asked.


"That's right, sweetie," the lady figure responded. "The cool pirate cane."


Hearing such, tears streamed down the soldier's face. Aigre's mother went through all that? He could hardly believe all this. He could hardly imagine the pain and suffering a healthy natal pregnant female must have to go through to bring a child into this world and become differently abled as a result. Did his mother suffer something similar when she gave birth to him? Those who were able to give birth, despite difficulties were the strongest soldiers in the world.


But, the early adult wiped them away as fast as he could. What in the world is he doing, crying right now? He needed to snap out of it. There was work to be done. He had to find the exit to this place and help the sea lion sisters uncover the buried treasure. Shadows soon speaking again, the chimera turned towards them. Figures beginning to struggle deeply in the water, the world froze.


"Aigre, you'll always be our little girl," the male figure in the water said while struggling.


Figures sinking down to the bottom of the ocean like rocks, Aigre's shadow had soon let out a pained screamed. Black tears falling down into the ocean the soldier once again tried to hold himself back. Was this the reason for Aigre's current behavior? He couldn't help but suspect such words were the catalyst to it all.


Turning towards the sea lion duo, an intense wave of darkness loomed over him. Bain and Kali hugging their knees, tears strolling down their faces, the early adult turned towards the opposite direction. These two definitely needed their privacy right about now. Right, he should probably look the other way. But, they had soon spoke through the sea of somberness.


"This was um, our parent's trip to Petrichor," Kali said, voice cracking. "Neither of us were able to go on this vacation. We." But she paused for a moment, letting out a loud pitched whine. "We had a job at that time with some trade commission. So we couldn't go, and, um, sorry, give me a second."


But, a second never came. Kali crumbling into a million wet pieces, the soldier placed his hand on his chest. Did she blame herself for her parents death? He definitely did not blame her for such. Bain lifting herself up from her knees, she soon attempted to finish her sister's cut off sentence.


"That vacation, we couldn't go. Our client told us we had to do some trades in Mount Esus West," Bain said, voice cracking. "You know, I think we should have gone. Then, mom and dad would still be alive right now!" As she said such she let out a wail. "Sorry. I'll stop We should probably move on."


Shadow woman moving through the domain as rain fell, the soldier swore he could hear her say multiple things under her dark breath. But, the hyena could not make out what that might have been. Moving through corridor after corridor, the end of the domain was nearing. Exit door soon about to be upon everyone, the pitch black girl let out one final utterance.


"Right," the shadow girl said in a somber tone. "I'll always be mommy's little girl..." She let out hicks and sobs once again. "Mommy's little baby."


Feeling a switch click upwards inside him, the soldier stared at the shadow on the submerged floor. Was this the cause for Aigre's childlike behavior? It had hit him like a food cart rolling out uncontrollably in the open. The mermaid had regressed back to the good old days of her childhood. He sees now.


Shadow soon summoning a monster, Bain and Kali sprung into action. Black figures reduced into nothing but a pile of ashes, everyone soon exited the domain one at a time. Door soon vanishing, the hyena had begun axing away. Beanstalk disintegrating into a pile of nothing, Bain had begun digging.


Treasure chest found underneath the hole below the grass, the early adult could not help but wonder. What could the spoils have possibly been? Trove soon unlocked, the pink haired sea lion removed a small locket from the tiny trunk. Seeing such, the hyena scratched his head. What was that tiny little trinket? False back soon taken off, the real piece revealed itself to the word.


Small necklace with Aigre's name on it uncovered, the chimera gazed at it for a moment. Bain and Kali, why would they bury something like this? But, he supposed they had their own reasons for doing something like that. Tears dropping on the grass once more, the next piece of the puzzle revealed itself to the world.


"This is something we hid from Aigre," Bain said through her tears. "If she knew about this necklace, I know she'd tell us, 'I want to go to the sky where mommy is.' So, we can't give this to her." But the sound of a loud scream off in the distance interrupted everything.


"Um, Aigre's off towards the boardwalk east of here," Kali interrupted. "We have to uh, chase her."


Aigre dashing off across the east slopes, everyone had begun running. Speeding off faster and faster, the distance between everyone had only gotten shorter with every given second. But, the gap had only begun to get wider once more. Sea lion, or mermaid rather, increasing her running speed, shouts had soon come her way.


"Aigre, please stop running!" Bain shouted.


But, her words went unheard. Aigre's dash reaching peak speed, the soldier could not help but wonder. What was she running for? Everyone continuing to chase after her, shouts kept coming her way. East Slopes completely left behind after about an hour of running, the hyena attempted to catch his breath. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed.


Spotting another beanstalk beside the board walk in the Fort Charybdis Ruins, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. How was it even possible for an invasive plant growth to appear somewhere soil never existed? The world had no sense, and he wasn't making any of it.


Aigre soon running off into the domain, Bain and Kali dropping in, as well, the soldier followed in shortly after. But, what awaited everyone within the confines of the labyrinth was a violent world of terror. Large room with intense battles holding Bain and Kali into a tight headlock, the hyena's eyes opened wide.


Bain and Kali neck and torsos locked away by some large, eight legged creatures, the early adult readied his claymore. What was going on here? Where did these monsters even come from? Nothing working for minutes on end, the chimera could feel something crack inside him. Were these creatures immune to blade attacks? If such were the case, he was useless piece of trash upon the battlefield.


Sea creature remaining supreme, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment. But, his hyena claws promptly did nothing, as well. Tail and flower friends proving even more useless, the soldier waved the white flag. Why couldn't he do anything? Turning towards Aigre, he swore he could hear the sound of glass breaking all around her.


Sissie and sisser taken away by some big meanie monster, Aigre let out a scream. No, no, no, no, this can't be happening. Faces all blue, the tears broke like broken glass. No, no, no, this can't be happening. She can't lose them, too. She had to do something. She can't lose them, too. No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.


Glass breaking, the tears kept going. She had to go back to the present. Back to the present, back to the present, back to today. Back to the current time. Chandelier of doom falling around her, her screams continued. No, no, no, no, no, no, she can't lose her sisters, too. Who would she have left. No, no, no. Go back to the present Aigre. Get back to here and now before it's too late. Now, now, now, now, now. Today. Not yesterday. Her grownup self.


Click.


"Bain, Kali, no!" Aigre cried, summoning her scythe. "I can't lose you two, too!"


Aigre swinging and hitting, every single monster had been decimated in a matter of moments. The soldier's heart skipped a beat. What just happened? Did the enemy get blown to smithereens in one single shot? The power of emotions was the most powerful force of them all. Aigre dropping down to her knees, the quakes soon rolled.


"Bain, Kali, I'm sorry for acting like a kid all the time," Aigre said, tears streaming down her face. "And causing you so much trouble."


"Huh?" Bain asked in confusion. "Don't worry about it."


"Yeah, uh," Kali added. "Uh, it's fine. We don't mind." But, as she said such, Aigre's body had become limp.


Exiting the domain, the soldier stared at the unconscious Aigre placed onto Bain's backside. Had she just woken up? That must have been quite difficult for her. Kali soon digging up the final treasure beside the river, more mementos that weren't his business had soon been uncovered.


Beanstalk soon chopped down, the harsh lemony scent had been wafted through the area once more. Zestiness overtaking him, the soldier's eyes grew heavy. Falling backwards, blackness overtook the chimera. What was going on? Why was he tired all of a sudden? World growing silent and dim, one last thought took him away as everything disappeared.


Aigre woke up in that domain, didn't she?


***


"Maybe all of this is going over my head
A little. I don't think I am quite grasping this.
Yes, I really am not understanding,
But I suppose I don't have to.
Even though


I know what I saw, I


Just don't quite
Understand how other chimera's minds work.
So, I guess Aigre woke up briefly?
Though, maybe I am wrong. I


Don't know. Well,
Oh, well, it looks like she's


Now back to normal. I awoke
Once again in Poisson
Today, and she's back to her


Childlike self. I guess it was just
One brief moment a
Momentary blip.
Perhaps, I just dreamt all that.
Right, I probably did.
Even so, what a strange dream.
How did I
End up back in Poisson? And
Now, it also seems those beanstalks are all
Done. Maybe it was


All just a dream. I really don't know.
Look, I am trying to think, but it
Looks like nothing is coming


To me. Well, I suppose my job
Here is done. But did I do anything?
I don't know. These past two days
Seem a little fuzzy around the edges now."


Finding himself back in Poisson the next morning, the early adult rubbed his eyes. He did not know why, but he felt like he just had a very long dream Aigre had reversed back to being an adult again. Hearing a lot of scoldings coming from the other room. Mermaid the same as she ever was, the hyena shook his head. Maybe it was a dream after all.


But, it was not a dream. Bain and Kali once again thanking him for getting rid of the beanstalk problem, the chimera tilted his head. Had he really done all that? He didn't know why, but everything felt like such a blur. Bidding farewell to the sea lion, excuse him, mermaid trio, the hyena exited the building.


Not knowing what the day ahead of him might entail, the soldier prepared himself to head back towards the Court of Fontaine. There had been no more growths to deal with, his job had been done. But, as he passed through the West Slopes, two familiar faces caught him off guard.


Rabiu and Lonan with very peculiar gear, the early adult stared off into space. What were these two wearing? He did not know, but something had been off about them. Had there been more invasive growths in Fontaine the he had missed? If such were the case, he needed to hop to it right away. Eyes on him, he had soon been informed on everything.


"Just in time, black fish steak bro," Lonan said in an urgent tone. "Rab and I were just about to go look for you."


"Um, uh, something strange is happening in the Foggy Forest Path and Weeping Willow of the Lake," Rabiu said in a nervous tone. "So, we, um, uh, are going to investigate again." His lip continued to quiver. "We um, are, uh, sorry to bother you, but would you like to investigate with us?"


Sense of urgency in Rabiu's voice, the soldier nodded. Something had been going on in the Foggy Forest again? He supposed it would be in his best interest to go along and see what might have been going on with that. Group of three running off towards Marcotte Station, he had soon learned the real meat and potatoes of the situation.


"Glad you're on board with us, black fish steak bro," Lonan said as he had begun running. "Overnight in the foggy forest some really weird mushrooms overtook the area. Rab's worried 'bout Damla and Firat."


"We, um, think it's possible some of the toxic material leaked underwater," Rabiu added. "We have should um, check up on them."


Hearing even more points of danger dropped out everywhere, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. There was no way this could go on any further. Even if the undersea gazelles did not wish to live in this world anymore, they needed to be safe, as well. Dropping down the second key, everyone ran past Marcotte Station at lightning speed.


Reaching the Foggy Forest Path after about an hour of running, multiple tall growths had intoxicated the area with their noxious gasses. Mask handed off to the soldier, the chimera covered his mouth and nose. Mushrooms of doom soon spreading out their spores aplenty, Lonan had gotten his crossbow ready.


Shrooms of doom decimated one after another, the soldier could see masked strangers running away as fast as they could possible muster. Seeing such, the early adult's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. It was those criminals that the special security patrol and Hydro Archon mentioned the other day. He needed to catch them black handed right away.


Every single poisonous object destroyed one after another, the chase was on. Everyone running around in circles for hours on end throughout the deepest edges of the forest, the early adult tried with all the energy that remained to grab the strangers. Why were they so fast? What were they trying to hide.


Party of three splitting up upon the paths in front of them, the group dispersed themselves towards multiple exits. Perhaps, just maybe, if they moved erratically, they would be able to catch them before they could get away. Weeping Willow of the Lake nearing, the jagged lines had been set.


Masked criminals soon cornered into a wall after two hours of chasing, Lonan unmasked the culprits. Hoods coming down, as well, the soldier rolled his eyes towards the sky. Of course it was Kelebek and Izzet again. When was something dangerous not tied to them?


"Not cool, bros, trying to poison the air and water," Lonan said, shaking his head. But a defense had come almost immediately.


"So what if we are?" Izzet asked in a maniacal tone. "Nyahahaha, those two need to be taken care of!" As they said such, a chatrakam had been summoned.


"Um, Lonan? Go all out," Rabiu said to Lonan.


"Got it, you're the boss, boss," Lonan replied to Rabiu. He then turned towards Siorc. "You, too, black fish steak bro!"


Rabiu soon adorning his integrated dagger and shield, a battle had soon broke loose. But, as everyone had begun fighting, the soldier could see Izzet throw something towards the lake. Seeing such, the early adult readied his claymore. But, as he had done so, Kelebek placed one's finger below one's eyelid.


"He thinks he's all that!" Kelebek shouted. "You'll show him how powerless he is!"


Huge mushroom with wings summoned, Rabiu's daggers had been ready. Bulb up above swelling, the hyena's eyes grew wide. This shroom, just what was it about to do? Something wasn't right here, and it needed to be dealt with accordingly. Spores popping out, the fungus among him tried flapping upward. But, such had been halted by the sound of an arrow barrage.


"Nope. Not today!" Lonan shouted. As he said such, hundreds of arrows rained down upon the shroom.


Abyssal gazelles summoning more shrooms, Lonan repeated the line once more. Hundreds of arrows fired in quick succession of one another, the obstacle had soon been defeated. Nothing else up their sleeves, screams had hit the wind at a rapid pace. Fingers pointed, the soldier rolled his eyes. Here it come, the line of revenge.


"We could have been rid of them!" Izzet shouted. "We've already replaced them anyway!"


Hearing such, the early adult's lowered his eyes into a squint. They did what now? Replace who? When? But, his questions remained unanswered as Kelebek's index finger pointed at him with a loud fury. Rolling his eyes again, he knew what phrase was about to grace his eardrums once more.


"He dared interfere!" Kelebek exclaimed, jumping towards the portal. "You will get your revenge!"


Abyssal gazelles gone without a trace, the early adult's head had begun to spin. The Abyssal gazelle, who did they replace? What was going on here? He did not understand a word of what had just been said. But he had soon been dragged back to reality. Rabiu reminding him to get his diving suit on, the soldier did as instructed.


Dropping down to the undersea lake, something of particular note stuck out to the soldier almost immediately. Damla and Firat struggling the breathe, the chimera's heart skipped more than five beats. The poison, had it already reached the undersea world? No, it had been too late, hadn't it? Rabiu deploying a defuser, a look of confusion had soon been on Damla's face.


"Why?" Damla asked. "We could have been asleep forever, hadn't you intervened."


"We could have been asleep forever," Firat also said. "You should have let that happen." But, a stream of words soon changed their song and dance.


"Um, uh, but your cousins did this," Rabiu said, voice shaking. "We thought you wouldn't want to go out that way. Um. Sorry for interfering." But, a sigh had come his way.


"So, you know, don't you?" Damla sighed in a tired tone.


"Know what?" Lonan asked.


"That Kelebek and Izzet switched our lungs with gills?" Firat asked in a tired tone. "So they could replace us within the Saber family."


Hearing such, the soldier could feel his soul about to depart from his body. The abyssal gazelles did what now? They were capable of changing the structure of someone's body? How was that possible? How could they be capable of something so vile? This could not be. No way, something wasn't adding up. This had to have been some sort of prank. Nothing was real. But, as his thoughts clustered, worried looks had come his way.


"Um, Siorc?" Rabiu asked in a concerned tone. "You don't looks so good. Um, you should go back home."


Thoughts racing the soldier ascended back towards the surface. Dragging himself towards Marcotte Station, the soldier stared off into space. Changing someone lungs into gills, how was that possible? Why would someone do something like that? Reaching the court city after about an hour, the questions repeated themselves.


Ginger Fatui telling him he looked terrible, go back to Snezhnaya and get some sleep, the soldier removed his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Dragging himself through the hallways, the hyena's thoughts muddied together. The abyssal gazelles, just how much were they truly capable of?


Reaching the soundproof room, the early adult walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. Replacing people's lungs with gills to replace them in the family. Why would someone do something so irreversible? Heart racing, the soldier broke out into a sweat. The abyssal gazelles, just what else were they capable of doing? Could they replace the heart with another organ? He did not know, but he knew they were more dangerous than he once thought.


Wave of tiredness overtaking him, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Thoughts racing for hours on end, hyena closed his eyes as he felt himself wear down. World of sleep about to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


The abyssal gazelles will do anything they can to gain power, won't they?

 

[Palamon]

36. Northern Fontaine Mysteries: Creepy Crawlies

"Hmm? What is going on here?
Ugh. Why is someone pushing my shoulders?
Huh? Ugh, it's the Eleventh.


What does he want from me doesn't
He know how late it is?
You know, I don't think he does.


Ah, well, well
Maybe he's


In the wrong room.


Bring yourself out of here. It's
Extremely late into the morning
It's past midnight.
No way am I
Getting up for him, goodbye.


Why isn't he leaving
Of all the Harbingers, they had to send him. I don't
Know why, but
Every time I see him, I feel
Nothing but fury.


Ugh. Maybe if I just
Pretend to sleep he will leave.


It's definitely going to work. Goodbye. I'm asleep.
No way. He's still


Tugging my shoulder.
How can he still be at this?
Exit my room please.


Maybe he does not know
It's after hours.
Does he not know?
Did he not realize?
Look at those dead
Eyes of his, is he blind?


Okay, that was quite rude of me.
For the record, I know next


To nothing about
Him. What would I know?
Everything about him is a mystery to me. And I


Never wish to learn.
I care nothing about him.
Guess he will not be going away
How can he be
This stubborn? Well,


Takes one to know one,
However, I will say
Absolutely nothing
There is nothing


I can say.
So, I lift myself


Up. He's looking right at me.
Now, I cannot believe the words he
Unleashed upon the cold air.
So, Her Majesty wants an audience with me.
Uh, Eleventh, excuse me?
As you may or may not have noticed, it's
Late. Way past midnight.


After hours.
No way this was


An order he received.
Undo this order, if you'd please!
Does it look like
It's time for this?
Eh. Well, I know I have
No choice in the matter.
Cannot say no.
Even though I


Wish to do so,
I cannot, whatsoever.
That word is not allowed to me.
Her Majesty, what does she want?


How could she ask for me this late after
Evening? Is it urgent?
Regarding whatever this is,


Now is hardly the time.
Oh, well. I have no choice.
Whatever could it be she


Wants, and why now?
Hahaha, listen
Your Majesty. You


Shouldn't wake up people
Haphazardly. I do not have sleep rage
Or anything, but some might and might
Unleash their wrath upon you.
Look, I am not saying that will happen
Do not take my word for it. Maybe I'm being
Nonsensical. Probably. I am just
Tired, I suppose. That's how


It all goes. Well, it is what it is.
Tired or not, I must seek this audience.


Why not wait until morning?
Ah, well who knows?
I cannot even begin
To fathom what Her Majesty is


Usually thinking. There is
No way to ever predict
That. She's quite the
Intricate god, if you ask me.
Look, it hardly


Matters. I know it doesn't.
Onward to her palace.
Remove myself from bed.
No more dawdling.
It is time to leave.
No more dawdling. It's time to
Get ready."


It had been the stark depths of the night hours within the permafrost north. Feeling a tug on his shoulder, the early adult had awoken from his especially deep slumber. Rubbing his eyes, for a moment, nothing but colored blobs awaited him. Wave of confusion flowing through him, he could not help but question. Who had removed him from his slumber? But, such inquiry had an immediate answer as a grating voice ruptured his inhuman eardrums.


"Hey, buddy, get up," the annoying voice demanded.


Reaching for his glasses, a wave of disgust flowed through the soldier at the face in front of him. Eleventh Harbinger standing by his bedside bundled up in a white coat, another wave of confusion flowed through him. What was this pesky Harbinger doing here? Was he being ordered to change rooms again within the military barracks? But, such had far off course.


"Her Majesty has requested an audience with you," the Eleventh said. "Come on, get up."


Eleventh demanding he get up, the bewilderment only continued to eat him. Her Majesty requested an audience with him now, of all times? It had been after midnight. He had still been in his bed pants; he was hardly presentable to appear in front of the Cryo Archon. What a terrible time for such news.


Words ringing in his head, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Why couldn't this meeting wait until morning? Surely, whatever it is she she wished to say to him could wait until daytime hours. But, he supposed orders were orders. Whatever says, goes. Nothing could be done if such were the case.


"Hey, why are you spacing out?" the Eleventh Harbinger called out again. "You need to wake up!"


Snapping himself out of it, the chimera let out a barely audible groan. Of all the soldiers to send, why did it have to be him? White coat handed off to him, the winter world soon engulfed him. Barracks soon exited, snow crunched underneath his feet as the eleventh harbinger led the way off towards the palace.


Long walk ahead of him, the chimera stared off into the white space in front of him. What could possibly be going on here? Why had he been summoned now, of all times? When was the last time he had been in front of the Cryo Archon? The hyena did not know. It had to have been quite some time ago.


Moving forward through the snow, the question repeated itself. Why was he summoned so suddenly? Had something bad happened to require an audience? The chimera did not know. Her Majesty requesting an audience with him had been quite rare. He could count the amount of times such had occurred on one hand.


But, the chimera shook his head. He had answered orders directly from her, dripped through an Agent grapevine. He supposed, such summoning should not have come as a surprise to him. But, he still could not help but ponder. What could have this been all about? It had to have been important if it could not wait.


"Hey, buddy, try to keep up!" the Eleventh Harbiner's distant voice shouted. "Unless you want to freeze to death, you have to keep moving."


Flinching, the soldier had begun running. Right, this was Snezhnaya. If he were to stay still for too long, the ice would bite him, guaranteed. Such could not happen, for any given reason. Continuing to run, the hyena attempted with all his might to catch up with the annoying tall man far ahead of him.


Reaching the palace after about an hour of walking, the soldier took a deep breath as Tartaglia opened the doors in front of him. Time was up, the time had come for him to appear in front of Her Majesty whether he liked it, or not. Stepping across the carpet, a fearful sight soon awaited him.


Her Majesty's right leg crusted into her left thigh, fear ate the chimera up like a plate of beef stroganoff. Was a punishment about to await him? Bowing in submission, the soldier pledged loyalty to the Cryo Archon. Raising his head upward, a cold face adorned Her Majesty's face.


"My lovely chimera, it was so nice of you to join me," Her Majesty said, tone cold. "I have been made aware of the trash getting in your way."


Hearing such, yet another wave of confusion flowed through him. What was Her Majesty talking about? What trash could she have possibly been talking about? Had there been a traitor amongst the Fatui? He had no idea. Not a single thing was coming to him. But, a laugh had soon brought him back to reality.


"Do you need a refreshed, my lovely chimera?" Her Majesty asked. As she said such, treated paper waved around in her hand. "Perhaps this will remind you." As she said such, she threw the sheet like it was a shuriken.


Catching the photo with his right hand, an instant wave of shock flowed through the soldier. Image of the Abyssal Gazelles staring back a him, he turned his head towards the right and left. Where did she get this? But, he threw such thoughts away. Her Majesty was always watching him. She heard all, she saw all. How could he forget such a thing? Hearing something metallic jingle in her fingers, the hyena turned back towards the Cryo Archon.


"I have a present for you, my lovely chimera," He Majesty said, her tone was cold. Her index finger then jerked. "Come over here."


Stepping towards her, the chimera's eyes opened wide at the gift seated in her hands. Rose staring back at him, he tilted his head as he received the presented to him. What was this for? He did not quite understand. Metals eating his palms, he broke out into a shiver. Whatever this could have been, it was most certainly not a good thing.


"Press a button, and that trash will be dealt with accordingly," Her Majesty said in a low voice. As she said such, she caressed her property's cheek.


Her Majesty's cold, hard hands upon his cheek, dry ice decorated his face. Legs quivering, he gazed at the god of the frozen north. Right, he had to do as she said. He had to get rid of the abyssal gazelles. This gift, he had to use it, no matter what. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.


"Yes, Your Majesty," the hyena responded, bowing his head. "I will take care of them." As he said such, a finger pointed towards the door.


"Get out of my sight this instant," Her Majesty said, tone cold.


Removing himself from the palace, the soldier dashed back to the Military Barracks. Reaching the soundproof room after a short amount of time, the hyena placed the white coat upon his door. Wave of tiredness taking him away once more, one final question readied itself to rip him apart.


What was that all about?


***


"Ah, Your Majesty, you have put in quite the predicament. There is
No way I can truly
Defeat the Abyssal Gazelles.


How do you expect me to do such a thing?
Of course I cannot do that.
Why would I be able to?


As you know, they are far
More powerful than anything that has ever been seen.


It is downright impossible.


So, how will this rose be able to do anything?
Unleash something upon them?
Please, enlighten me.
Please, tell me how any
Of this is supposed to work.
Something just isn't adding up here.
Especially this rose.
Did Her Majesty put something inside it?


That has to be it, surely.
Or, perhaps not. I don't quite


Get this at all.
Even if she has her ways,
This something I am


Rather puzzled about.
It can't quite be this simple.
Does Her Majesty really think


One little black rose could take them out? She's
Fooling herself if so.


There is absolutely no way that could be possible.
How is this
Even something she has considered?


And, if she had a tool all this time?
But, I guess this is a brand new development.
Yes, that has to be it,
Surely. This is a brand new development.
Something that hadn't happened
At any point before.
Looks like that's the case. I


Guess that's it, that's
All this is. So, these chimeras messing with the order of everything, it's about to reach its
Zenith. Ah, so I see how it is. The
End is here.
Listen to the sound of the end,
Listen to it calling out.
Everything will
Soon reach its climax.


This is the end of the road for these
Horrific villains that I have seen
Across Teyvat.
This is the end of the road, and


I will be putting a
Stop to all this,


Perhaps, it will go
Round and smoothly,
Or maybe it will go poorly.
But I don't know,
After all, they are a force to
Be reckoned with. I might have defeated their playthings, but I have never won against them. Will I
Lose to them?
Yes, that is possible.


I know that it is the
Most likely outcome. But,
Perhaps I will be able to
Overcome them.
Surely, this rose
Shall be the one that'll defeat them.
I am far from confident,
But it is what it is. I know it is
Likely they have already prepared.
Eh, well, it's not like I have a choice in


The matter. I
Have to take care of them,
Even if I am unable to.
Yes. I have to take care of the


Abyssal gazelles. Or, I'll be
Ripe for the picking.
Eaten alive, it'll all be over.


All of it will be over if I
Lose here. I cannot
Lose. I have to defeat them.


Please, rose seated
On my uniform
Will you lend me your power?
Even though I say that, this
Rose, just what kind of powers does it have?
For all I know, it could be completely
Useless. That outcome is very
Likely. I know that. But, I mustn't falter."


The sound of morning alarm bells shrieked out a yodeler at the top of the mountains. As the alarm bells kept their rampage going, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in unison. The alarm bells had been right on time, as usual. But, despite such protest about every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the hyena lifted himself upwards from the bed. There was no time to waste. He had to get ready for the day at hand. Removing himself from the covers, the time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the chimera could not help but feel an extremely heavy weight of confusion drop onto his back. How did Her Majesty learn of the abyssal gazelles? But, the chimera shook his head. She was watching him from everywhere in the Teyvat.


Staring at the pitch black rose gifted to him, the chimera scratched his cheeks. What could this metallic flower possibly do? But, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. He supposed, when the time were to come to use it, he would find out. Clipping it upon his chest, he took a long deep breath.


Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching sunflowers adorned his hair and ears. Gazing at the rest of his prized possession within the container, he kept staring off into space. Was turning his jewelry and accessories into weapons what he truly wanted? Rational brain on, at the moment, regret filled the hyena.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, his mind wandered back towards the black rose. This black rose, what could it possibly be capable of? But, he supposed it could be a customized Delusion. Gazing down at the yellow-green orb below him, the questions rolled themselves around once more.


His vision, should he make more use of it? But, he threw such thoughts away. He should not waste the finite uses of his elemental energy. It had to have some sort of limit that was ready to tick down at any given moment. It would be unwise to speed such countdown up.


Heelless shoes on, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. What did he know, anyway? He hardly had his vision long enough to have any knowledge about the ins and outs. But, he supposed as time were to go on, he'd learn more about the way of the seven elements.


As the chimera ate his rations, a repeat question rolled a pebble around in the hyena's partially human brain. Kelebek and Izzet, just how much did she know about them? But, the chimera shook his head once more. She was aware of everything, for sure. Weren't gods all knowing beings? Leaving such at that, the chimera adjusted his glasses. Everything else fixed, and bowl set aside, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.


The louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots marched onward inexorably. As the steps readied to break glass, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be investigating paranormal activity reported around northern Fontaine and Lumidouce Harbor." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "As well as investigating clues left behind about your enemies."


The hyena jumped six steps back upon hearing his orders. He had to do what now? Investigate paranormal activity? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Is this even real? The Agent had to be messing with him right about now. Was this some sort of prank to make sure he was paying attention? It had to have been.


The chimera stared off towards the steel walls. Paranormal activity, his butt. And, how would he deal with such a thing? He did not have the ability, in any capacity to see the unseen. What was he supposed to do? He was useless, in every single way. There was no way he could do anything.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be investigating paranormal activity spotted around northern Fontaine and Lumidouce Harbor!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "We don't have time for this dawdling! Get a move on!"


The soldier flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for thinking. He had a job to do. Able to see the unseen, or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter. Turning back around, he placed his hand out in front of him. He supposed he would just have to wing it, for the time being.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. He knew, no matter what, he had no choice in the matter.


"Good, soldier. Let's go," the Agent responded. "But, you must be cautious. There might be something toxic lurking about." Arm out in front of him, the Agent gripped the limb tight enough to bruise. Escort towards Fontaine starting itself up, the chimera stared off towards the icy cold walls in front of him.


Why was it always been poison?


He's tired of dealing with it.


***


"No way, this this isn't good,
Oh no, oh no.


What are those thingies?
Aaaaaaaaah, I was just knocked out of the sky!
You can't be serious!


This is scary, sooo scary!
Help! Oh, gosh, oh, Archons
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeek, there's bug people everywhere!
Roar, I Oluchi, despise buggies!
Eeeeeeeeeeeeek, eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!


I want no part of this! Hehe,
Should I send them after Robby? Hehehehe, I totally


Should. I'm way too cute to
Play this game!
I'm not dealing with these
Dumb little buggies, no way!
Eeeeeeeeeew!
Remove these
Sick little creatures from my sight!


Hehehehe, Robby, you'd better watch out!
Every single little spider will
Roll towards you!
Eeeeek! Hehe,


That's what you get for
Having the galls to tell me off.
And since you went and did
That, this is your punishment!


I'm never wrong about anything!
So, here's your punishment for opposing me!


No more of that silly stuff, I
Oluchi am the cutest person in all of
Teyvat, so I'm right about everything, tehee!


Get with it, or you will be so
Over! Ehehehehe,
Over, over, over, over! And
Done! These silly little


Ugly spideys, this will be your last
Moment in life, but it will have


Nothing to do with me, nope! I
Oluchi wouldn't dare
Touch these


Gross little things!
Oh, boy, hehehe,
Oh, boy,
Don't you see?


All of this is his fault
This is something he went


And did, so I'll
Leave him to deal with these
Little bitty buggies!


Tehehehehe,
Hehehehehe,
I'll go my to my research now,
So, bye byeeeeeee!


I won't be dealing with those
Silly foolish little spideys, so


Bye byeeeeeeeeee, off I go.
All of this will be
Dealt with while I'm away!"


Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint, the soldier broke out into a shiver. He did not know why, but he could sense heavy danger in the air. But, such thoughts had been thrown out almost immediately as he had been dragged down the mountain.


Placed inside the wooden vessel, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Why did the air feel so thick? Something was definitely wrong here, for sure. But, he didn't know what. Boat about to leave for the next destination, the soldier kept himself still.


As the vehicle of human movement headed off towards the harbor, the chimera broke out into a sweat. This heavy atmosphere, could it have been some sort of gas? If such were the case, he would need to proceed with utmost caution. Covering his nose, the hyena filtered everything out around him.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor after about fifteen minutes, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just him, or had the atmosphere here only gotten heavier? But, he knew he had to shake such feelings off. Work mode switch flipping upward, he tuned such feelings out.


Dragged towards the stairwell, the Agent told him for what felt like duodecillionth time not to teleport anywhere within Fontaine. Hearing such, the hyena resisted the urge to bite the hands that feed. How many times was he going to repeat such a line? He knew already. Couldn't he tell him something useful, for a change?


Satchel soon slammed onto his backside and list handed off to him, the Agent had passed off an unusual set of orders for him. Told to got find himself a detective outfit, the early adult tilted his head. He had to do what now? But, the Agent soon exited the area. Left with more questions than answers, the soldier shrugged his shoulders. Whatever the Agent said, goes. He supposed he would head for the Congele Boutique and buy one.


As the hyena ascended the staircase, and took the glass lift, he turned his had towards the right and left. Why was it so quiet here? It was almost too quiet. Not even the waves had been moving. But, the hyena shook such feelings away. He needed to focus on the mission at hand.


Pressing the button to summon the Aquabus, the early adult shivered up a storm. There had been absolutely no one here, not a soul. Where was everyone? But, the chimera threw such questions off a bridge. It was hardly important. There had been next to no one at Romaritime Harbor various times prior.


Aquabus shortly arriving, the Melusine tour guide had a fearful look in her eyes. Or, so the soldier thought. It had been quite difficult to tell. The sea denizen's face had been quite different from that of a person. Seating himself on the furthest edges of the vessel, the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward.


As the vessel departed from the station, the early adult gazed at the list in front of it. Paranormal sightings spotted written at the top, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the sky? Paranormal sightings? His foot. This couldn't have possibly been the case whatsoever. These were some choice words, for sure.


Reading the first order upon his list, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at what he was reading. Investigate respawning zombie-likes in Lumidouce Harbor? What absolutely ludicrous nonsense. This had to have been a major misunderstanding of some sort. It had to have been.


Reaching the Court of Fontaine before he even realized, the Melusine soon called out of it. Flinching, the early adult stood up from the vessel. He had reached the capital city already? How was this even possible?
Disembarking from the vehicle, the chimera readied himself to head off somewhere he knew he would regret going to.


But, as the chimera stepped foot into the capital city, the streets had been practically empty. Seeing such, he couldn't help but feel a heavy wave of unease. Where had everyone been today? He did not know why, but the lack of people around was incredibly terrifying.


Knowing he had to head to Congele Boutique to purchase himself a detective outfit, the chimera snapped himself out of it. So what if there wasn't anyone here? Why should something like this matter to him? It was not important. Perhaps, just maybe, everyone had been busy and off the streets.


As the hyena pushed through the northern streets, the soldier stared of into space. Were his orders serious? This had to have been some sort of gag order. There was no way zombies were real. Who would ever believe such a thing? This had to be some sort of miswording, on Her Majesty's part.


Moving right along, the chimera could not help but wonder. Could these so called zombies that had been reported been the reason for the generic nobody's absences? But, the early adult knew such had been a huge jump to conclusions. The apparent undead group had been in Lumidouce Harbor. Why would anyone need to hide themselves so far away?


Not a single soul around whatsoever, the chimera attempted with all his might to quell the fears deep within him. Perhaps the real paranormal activity had been the ghost town right in front of him. Holding back a laugh, he kept moving forward. That may as well have been the case, at this point in time.


Spotting a few people lurking around the western streets with a look of fear on their faces, the soldier scratched his head. Had word reached the rich people that there had been something spooky going on? He supposed such could have been the case. Ignoring them, he kept moving forward.


But, the oddities had only continued to pile themselves up as he walked past the Adventurer Guild's booth. Generic nobodies speaking incomprehensible garbage, the hyena blinked. Why were these people speaking in code? What kind of nonsense was this?


Code speech only continuing, the early adult gazed at the rich nobodies. Had the people of Fontaine been replaced by aliens, or something? But, the hyena shook his head. What in the world was he thinking? There was no way such a thing could be the case. This was not science fiction. This was reality.


Gibberish threatening to gnaw his ear off, the chimera attempted to tune everything around him out. What did it matter if these people were extraterrestrial or not? That was hardly his problem. The generic nobodies most certainly meant nothing to Her Majesty.


Pushing towards the stairs, the chimera swore he could see a water creature floating around the city. Blinking and missing it, the hyena disregarded such. Maybe he had just imagined it. Why would there be monsters in the city? There was no possible way they could even get past the door long enough to live.


Congele boutique inching ever so closer, the chimera swore he could see another water creature hopping on by. But, the hyena turned away. Maybe it was just a costume for some stage play for one of the acting troupes. That had to have been it, surely. Keeping such assumption at the top of his mind, he dragged himself forward.


Penguin fashion establishment front and center, the hyena took a long deep breath. It was time to get this over with. The quicker he were to depart from this place, the better. Placing his hands upon the door, he braced himself for the aggravating penguins to bite down on his nerves.


Door jingling as he opened the entrance, the early adult allowed a sigh to escape the esophagus. Why was there a bell on the door now? When was that added? Absolutely wonderful, whenever he were to come here now, the entire world would know of his presence, how annoying.


Boutique incredibly quiet with barely any customers to speak of, a heavy wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Why had there been next to no one here? How incredibly unusual. Something wasn't right here. But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. It was normal for business to have some slow days.


Malika's head lowered onto the counter in the corner, the hyena almost turned back around. Had she been sleeping? If she were, maybe he should leave. Did it even matter if he were in a detective outfit? Perhaps not. But, such turn around had been cancelled. He had to follow orders, no matter what. Penguin woman raising her head, he once again turned his attention off towards the bells on the door.


"Welcome to Congele Boutique. How may I help you?" Malika asked in her business voice. Turning her attention towards her customer, she placed her finger on her chin. Siorc staring at the bells on the door, she pondered. Had the alarm disturbed him? She should say something about this new addition to quell such feelings within. "Hello, darling. Apologies, did the bell on the door disturb you?" As she asked such, her acrylic nails pointed off towards the door. "Sorry about that, there have been a lot of thieves around here lately stealing this and that. So, I had Esquire install a bell on the door to hear when people are coming in and out." She folded her arms on top of the counter. "So, what can I help you with, darling? If you're looking for Earl, he's at the Opera Epiclese along with everyone else."


Malika mentioning there had been no Earl here to disturb him, the hyena puffed a barely audible sigh of relief. The pesky thorns in his side weren't here to bother him with their presence. He was free. He could see the storm clouds fade away from above his head. Peace and quiet, what a nice feeling.


Shaking such off, the chimera focused his eyes on the prize. Placing his hand out in front of him, the soldier folded every digit except his index finger inward. Pointing, he rubbed his mostly closed palm onto his chest. Opening his hands once more, he placed his palms off towards the side, Hands moved downward twice, the words detective outfit had been signed for only one person to see.


Watching Siorc's hands carefully, Malika placed her fingers on her chin. He was looking for a detective outfit? Had he been looking to investigate the paranormal activity that had been reported recently? It was nice to see him so fashion minded for the occasion, if so.


"Sure, darling I can do that for you," Malika responded, nodded. "What color outfit would you like?"


Question coming his way about what color detective outfit he would like to purchase, the hyena shrugged. Did it matter what color the outfit was? He was not quite picky. Pink, blue, white? None of that mattered to him in the slightest. He would accept any thrown his way, even the wretched purple, if necessary.


Malika stepping towards the back for a moment, the soldier waited in silence. Standard brown detective outfit handed to him without a hat, a question had soon come his way. Inquiry about whether he wanted to borrow some detective themed hairpins and earrings, the soldier nodded. Why waste such an opportunity? This was a once in a blue moon offer.


Tall penguin woman stepping in the back again once more, the hyena removed the hairpins and earrings. Malika soon returning with a matching magnifying glass set, the chimera reached for his wallet. Undoing the zipper, he removed some Mora from deep within. But, a headshake had immediately come his way.


"No need to pay me, darling," Malika said, shaking her head. "You're just borrowing this for work, right? I'll cover the rental fee for you."


Guided towards a changing room, the soldier closed the curtains behind him. Undoing the buttons on his uniform, the soldier placed the checkerboard brown shirt upon him. Matching pants slipping off his waist a smidgeon, he tied a small rope upon the bottom region. He had been given the incorrect size, but he supposed he had ways to remedy such error.


Clicking the magnifying glass hairpin in place, he could feel a wave of relief wash over him. For once, he had accessories that had not been weaponized. Such was a momentary relief, for sure. Earrings slipped into the holes in his ears, the magnifying glasses dangled downward.


Leaving the changing room, the soldier placed his uniform into his satchel. Heading towards the door, the soldier took a long deep breath. It was time to take the Aquabus and head off towards the southernmost harbor in Fontaine. Knowing he had to make haste, the temporary detective's legs erupted into a sprint.


As the soldier headed upon the eastern path, he could not help but wonder. What should he be looking for? He did not know. He supposed the zombies could come in any shape or form. Could they have been people afflicted by poison with their minds shut down? He supposed that was a possibility.


Moving through the city at lightning speed, other ideas threw themselves out in the open. Could the zombies have been just a new type of monsters that had gone undiscovered that had unusual movement? If such were the case, there was no way there was anything supernatural about it.


Soon reaching the Aquabus, the usual Melusine tour guide had been aboard with absolutely no one. Sea denizen stating this line had been next to dead for the past few days, the soldier blinked. Had there really been next to no one heading to Marcotte Station lately? Something had been quite off with that, for sure.


Seating himself on the furthest seat once again, the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward. Melusine informing him she wasn't in the mood for a tour, the soldier blinked. Was Elphane alright? He did not know why, but such had seemed quite unlike her. Was a storm about to cloud over Fontaine?


Melusine tour guide up front talking about zombie spottings and how they are a danger to Fontaine, the soldier blinked. She had known about the issue as well? If she did, then it had to have been true, surely. He had been far too skeptical about this. He had to keep his mind open to the abstract and impossible.


Aquabus reaching Marcotte Station, the young soldier leaped off the vehicle faster than his legs could keep up with. Melusine telling him to watch his step, the chimera regained his balance. Stepping off towards the eastern pathway, the hyena prepared himself for the possible zombie crisis ready to overtake the Hydro Nation at any given moment.


As the hyena prepared to leave the theater world behind, false hopes flittered in a layer of sprinkles. These so called zombies, surely they were nothing to worry about. Didn't Melusine see things differently than humans did? Maybe that was it. Something that looked normal to him could have been an entirely different story for sea dwellers.


Continuing to run off towards the southern pathway towards the Foggy Forest, the temporary detective stared off into space. What was the worst that could possibly happen? All of this had to have been a deeply rooted misunderstanding. It had to have been. Repeating such over and over, the soldier continued to move eastward.


Moving through the dense forest with haste, the early adult let out a short laugh. Surely, there had been absolutely nothing haunted to worry about in the harbor. Repeating such over and over in the recesses of his mind, the hyena kept running. No matter what the case was, he had to deal with it, full stop.


Lumidouce Harbor getting closer with every second, a heavy, foreboding atmosphere grabbed the soldier from behind. Feeling such, the hyena's legs were jelly. Where was this sudden sense of doom coming from? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. He could not let such eat away at him.


Hearing loud screams off in the distance, the soldier's sprint had soon reached maximum capacity. Had someone been in trouble nearby? He needed to spring into action before something terrible could occur. Harbor reached at lightning speed, something of immediate note caught the hyena's attention.


Puppets almost looking indiscernible from humans adorning swords from every angle, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. These were the so called zombies He had to deal with? Such had to have been some sort of mistake. They were nothing more than dolls. This report was wrong, for sure.


Doll faces incredibly disfigured, the soldier shook his head. Was such the reason for their labelling? He supposed he did not blame them. Cracks across their porcelain cheeks and eyes, the chimera shook his head. Paranormal activity, his foot. Surely, this was just the scene for some film for some upcoming festival.


People around the harbor covering in fear screaming don't eat them, the soldier tilted his head. Surely, this had to have just been the scene of a film. These were nothing more than props being moved by a director nearby. This report was bogus, for sure. But, the table soon turned.


Puppets swinging their swords with a ferocity, while making incomprehensible noises, fear continued to eat the harbor up like a plate of croissants. Generic nobodies continuing to scream don't hurt them, miss zombie, he swore he could hear them laughing nonstop.


Menacing aura flowing through the creatures, the temporary detective leapt towards the possibly inorganic undead creature. Did they intend to harm a completely powerless person? He needed to put a stop to this, right this instant. Sifting through his satchel, he had soon come across a weapon of unusual factors.


Spray bottle in his hands labelled as the spookinater, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. The what now? Who in the world named this thing? They had been buying too much into this so called paranormal problem. Twisting the cover off the spray, the chimera ran behind the puppet.


Nozzle letting itself loose, green stringy liquid released itself upon the air. Puppet soon locked into place, the soldier stared at the spray bottle. What was this material? He had never seen it before in all his life. Spotting more puppets off in the corner looking ready for terror, the spray was ready.


More disfigured dolls locked into place, the hyena let out a sigh. What was he supposed to be, some sort of ghostbuster? But, the early adult shook his head. Wrong universe. There was no way he had been such in any shape or form if other versions of him existed in other worlds.


Puppets held back for a moment, the chimera investigated the area. Spotting nothing of especial note throughout the harbor, aside from the unwanted puppet visitors, the hyena could feel wave of doubts flow through him. Had there really been anything of note here? These dolls had been greatly exaggerated.


But, as the soldier kept observing the area, something unusual had caught the chimera's attention. Mechanical being rolling over a button on constant repeat beside a tree, the soldier blinked. What was this meka doing? Inorganic being continuing to press the clicker for minutes on end, the chimera sifted through his satchel once more.


Finding a large greatsword in the shape of an umbrella with a face on it, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. What in the world was this thing? This was supposed to be a blade? But, he supposed umbrellas had sharp bits on them that could take something out of the picture. Placing himself in a fighting stance, the hyena prepared himself.


Mechanical being turning to face him, the soldier blade had begun to do the talking. Bright red aura surrounding the weapon, the soldier let out a battle cry. Unusual noises coming from the claymore as he kept swiping, the soldier stared off into space. Is this thing supposed to be a toy?


Blade continuing to make noises as he kept swiping forward, the chimera jumped two steps back as a comical ghost creature popped up from the umbrella tip. What in the world was this thing? If he had been given a toy sword, this battle would fail spectacularly, guaranteed.


Machine soon lifting its mechanical parts upward, rocks had been sent the chimera's way. Jumping three steps back, the chimera swung the umbrella sword backwards. Minerals sent back towards the enemy, its movements had halted. Dashing back towards the enemy, pieces had come undone one after another.


Rust bucket looking ready to bite the dust, the chimera flipped the blade backwards. Pointy tip making its rampage known, the monster faded into the ether. But, such defeated only lasted mere moments. Monster returning from the world beyond, the hyena grit his teeth. Why in the world was it regenerating? How was that even possible?


Generic nobodies around the harbor shouting the loose zombies are heading off towards the cave up ahead, the chimera's heart skipped more than two beats. Had there been some hiding he forgot to imprison? How careless of him. Machine whirring itself up once more, the chimera concentrated everything on taking it down.


Such permanent defeat never came. Enemy continuing to respawn for minutes on end, the chimera stared at the blade bestowed upon him. Had he been doing something wrong here? This monster, why was it still regenerating? How annoying. Did it have some sort of repair feature? He needed to find a way to disable it right away.


Mechanical being continuing to revive itself on constant loop, the hyena backed four steps away. How was this thing still able to repair itself like this? But, he supposed he hardly understood enough about machinery to come to any sort of conclusive answer. Loop of strikes continuing, everything was a never ending cycle of disarray.


Such chaos had only begun to reach its peak as the minutes had begun to unravel themselves. Puppets freeing themselves from their slimy prison, the early adult dashed off towards them. Did they think they could get away? No way, absolutely not. He could not allow for that to happen.


Dashing towards the doll army's backside, the creature's blindsides had been within reach. Swiping to and fro for minutes on end, the soldier let out a shout. First puppet taken out of the picture, the chimera let out a huff. Just how weak had these monsters been? But, he knew he had thought too soon.


Dolls coming back from their mechanical death, the early adult's jaw dropped open. These creatures had been able to repair themselves, as well? How was this happening? Who in all of Teyvat had designed these puppets? He needed to find a weak spot right away.


Charging at the enemies with all his might, the soldier kept the momentum going. But such defeats had still lead to nowhere. Respawn loop speeding itself, the questions kept themselves coming. Just how many times could these creatures regenerate themselves as if nothing happened? There had to have been a limit to such.


But, such limit could not be found under any circumstance. Creatures continuing to go back to the way they had been since second one, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What was the point of trying to become the victor in such fight anymore? It was not possible, in any capacity whatsoever.


Monsters turning their synthetic bodies off towards the water, the soldier attempted with all their might to follow them. Mechanical beings moving on their own, the soldier pushed himself through the waterbed beneath him. Where were they going? Sea in front of him, the chimera leaped across the water like his life depended on it.


Puppets moving faster than he could keep up with, the chimera attempted to put a spring in his step. Just who was controlling these beings? There was no way a human could make them move so fast? Had the Abyss been behind this? Something felt quite fishy here.


Beings only beginning to move faster, the soldier kept his sprint going. How could they still have the energy to move like this? How ridiculous. Surely, their mechanical insides had to have some sort of limit that had to have bene reached at this point. He needed to strike the nonexistent iron while it was still hot.


Lunging across the remainder of the lake, the early adult was locked and loaded. Ghastly greatsword leaving its mark from behind for what felt like the hundredth time today, defeat continued to be nowhere to be seen. Cave about to be upon him, the chimera could hardly believe what he was seeing as he strayed forward.


Spotting a target on the wall with the words hit me painted directly in the center, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Hit it? This had to have been some sort of trap that would swallow up people unintelligent enough to listen to it. He was not about to fall for this whatsoever. Not a chance.


Puppet creatures pointing at the obvious ploy, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Did these so called zombies think he was easy to fool? He was not about to fall for this trap. Not a chance. If these brainless creatures thought that they could tempt him, it was not happening, no matter what.


Enemies demanding he hit the button already, the early adult grit his teeth. Was that a threat? He wasn't about to listen to this, not a chance. But, he had soon been given no other choice. Mechanical beings soon forcing his hands, the target had been decimated into nothing.


Robotic monster emerging itself from the destroyed target, the chimera let out a groan. This was never going to end, was it? Whoever was behind this mechanical chaos had put too much into it, for sure. Enough had been enough. It was time to end this immortality right here, right now.


Bucket of bolts reduced to nothing but scrap metal, the hyena swore he could hear a mechanical voice scream out in the open to surrender themselves. Hearing such, the soldier blinked. Had he just heard that correctly? But, he soon shook his head. No. It had to have been his imagination, surely.


Puppet army reversing their weapons back towards their torsos, the soldier's eyes opened wide at the sight before him. Sharp ends shaking hands with the mechanical necks, heads rolled one after another. Overpowering voice demanding they hurry up, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Where were these shouts coming from?


Self destruction hitting its climax, it was raining doll parts, hallelujah. Sacrificial lambs out of the picture, the early adult blinked. What was that all about? How unusual. Whoever had control over this army had been a little bit too bent on destruction, for sure. Nothing remaining within the seaside cave, the chimera read over the next apparent paranormal sighting.


"Behind the waterfall in the Liffey Region lies a mysterious cave that remains completely uncharted!" the note in clear Snezhnayan exclaimed.


Reading over such line a second time, the chimera clicked his tongue. There was a cave behind a waterfall? Yeah, right, sure there was. This wasn't a role playing game! Whatever that was, he had no idea what that even meant. But, he quickly snapped himself out of it. It was time to go. There was no time to waste.


As the soldier had begun heading off towards the westward path, he could not help but laugh. Yeah, right, there was a cave behind a waterfall. Who would ever believe such obviously manufactured tall tales? This was complete and utter nonsense. Did Her Majesty ever double check the trash she wrote down?


Dashing off towards the north, Marcotte Station had been upon him once again. Preparing himself to brush himself towards the research institute, he stared off into space, for a moment. Just how legitimate were these claims? There was no way any of this held any water to speak of.


Research Institute straying ever so closer as the hours dragged on by, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. He did not know why, but had the sense that something was glaring at him. But, he quickly shook such feeling of. Of course someone had been. Eyes were always on him everywhere.


Continuing along the pathway, the chimera kept himself on his toes. Could there have been more quote on quote zombies lurking in the shadows? If there had some he had forgotten to take care of, they would be brought down to their inorganic graves in an uneven heartbeat.


Reaching the northern most edges of the Research Institute, the hyena could hear a familiar sound of a flaming jet from up above him. Hearing such, the chimera could not help but let out a groan. Had Oluchi been around here? If such had been the case, he was out of here, without question. But, he had soon been spotted, in a matter of moments.


Uncute bully of a researcher jackal landing right next to him, the chimera attempted to leap across the water. But, his pathway had soon been cut off. Pesky partially human person looking ready to laugh at him, the soldier prepared to turn the other cheek. Whatever she had to say, his ears were closed.


Seeing purple hair from down below, let out a giggle. It was Rabiu's crush. He looked like quite the delicate little flower. He looked like he would be fun to bully. Maybe she should rub it in his face his was nothing more than a thief. That's all he'd ever be, after all, a silly little criminal who deserved to hear it twice over.


"It's Mr. Thiefers again!" Oluchi exclaimed, letting out an annoying giggle. "You're so uncute, stealing from people all the time!"


Attempted insult going in one ear and out the other, the soldier hopped across the water once more. Whatever she had to say to him, he wasn't listening under any circumstance. She should turn to a wall and talk to it. It would definitely give her something as valuable as her to do.


Spotting a waterfall off into the distance, the soldier prepared himself for a whole world of nothing to await him. There had been a cave behind the towering waters? Sure there was. He'll believe it when he sees it. All of this had been utter nonsense. This was the oldest trick in the book.


But, upon reaching the area near the waterfall within the eastern most layer of the Liffey Region, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Was it just him, or had the gap that had been much wider from behind the falls than previously? But, the chimera shook his head. There was absolutely no way that was the case.


Heading off towards the waterfall, the chimera peered through the liquid bed, for a moment. Had there really been something behind here? He could feel a heavy wave of doubt flow through him as he continued onward. There was absolutely no way there was anything behind here. It was a trick of light, for sure.


Knowing he had no choice but to investigate, the temporary detective forced his way through the falls. Strong force attempting to push him back, the chimera braved the storm. Did this force of liquid think it could hold him back? It had thought wrong. Pushing himself through, something eerie awaited him.


Eerie cave awaiting him upon the other side of the waterfall, the soldier shook his head. There had been actual cave back here? Surely, this had to have been one of those mirage spots. There was no way any of this was real. But, the chimera shook his head. Wrong universe. This was not some creature collecting story.


Looking over his notes again, something he had missed prior screeched at him upon the paper. Smudged handwriting underneath the second point, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Reading it as carefully as he could possibly muster, the temporary detective almost did a triple take at what had been scribbled down in a haphazard manner.


"Inside the waterfall cave resides arachnid people," the note in sloppy Snezhnayan writing had said.


Reading such, the early adult flinched. What did Her Majesty mean there had been arachnid people within this cave? Surely, this had to have been some sort of mistake. It had been scribbled in the margins. There was no way it was true. But, he had soon been greeted with terror upon the walls.


Arachnid army climbing upon the wall the chimera placed his hands over his head. Pitch black eight legged creatures with smiley faces on their abdomens, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. Great, just what he needed right now, insects to slow him down. But, such had only been the beginning.


Long, black haired feminine appearing individuals sticking themselves out of the spider bodies, the hyena let out a shout. These insect people, where could they have possibly come from? Turning towards their backsides, their stingers had been sharp and ready. Seeing such, the soldier's heart skipped more than two beats. Any second now, and he would be struck with toxic threads, guaranteed.


Hearing footsteps approaching the cave, the soldier held back the urge to groan. Who had chosen to disturb him this time? Oluchi running into the crevices with her goggles downward, the hyena placed her arms across his chest. Whatever it was she had to say to him, he wasn't interested in the slightest.


"Wait a sec, stop right there! It's dangerous in here!" Oluchi cried, huffing. "You see those spideys? They might not be attacking now, but once they lock eyes with you, you'll go splat! On the wall!" She waved her hands around as she said such. "When Folu went inside that domain inside the cave, these spider ladies ran in right after them and beat them up!"


Siorc rolled his eyes upon hearing such nonsense. There was no way Oluchi had been telling the truth here. She was trying to mess with him. Why should he take her word for it? Did she really think he was falling for her obvious dishonesty? Absolutely not. He wasn't buying what she was selling one bit. Stepping towards the entrance, he could hear shouts call out to him.


"Mr. Thief, are you listening to me?" Oluchi asked in a frantic tone. "I said it's dangerous in there you can't go i--" But the fool had not listened to her. "Man, he's more hopeless than Robby! I'd better follow him!"


Blinding light soon overtaking him, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Opening them once more after about a moment, a forest soon awaited him. Spider women crawling in right with him, the chimera's umbrella blade had been beside him. These creatures were dangerous? His weapon would take care of them plenty.


Oluchi soon following in right after, the soldier out a groan. Did she follow him in here? How annoying. What did she want from him? Hadn't she already said her piece? If she had anything else to say, he would not hear of it. He knew already. These spider people were dangerous? He did not need to hear it again. Once was already too much. Jackal girl huffing, barely useful information had come his way.


"Thiefy Mc Thieferson, I told you it's dangerous in here!" Oluchi exclaimed. "These spideys are super poisonous! If they lock eyes on you, wham! Game over!"


Spotting strange stone tablets off in the distance, the hyena tuned Oluchi out. Did she ever stop talking? When would she realize he wasn't buying what she was selling in any capacity? She could stop trying so hard to get his attention. He wasn't listening whatsoever.


Moving right along through the thick of the woods, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Where could the stone tablets have been? But, the soldier shook his head. When he were to be near it, he would surely know. Pressing on, he had soon be in the presence of the first stone tablet.


But, what awaited the hyena had been no words he could understand to any capacity. Staring at the large stone carving, a wave of regret flowed through him. How he wished he could read the Fontaine language. He would need to teach himself how to read it in the future. Oluchi running up to him, he held back another groan. She was still following behind him? Why couldn't she tread down her own path? How annoying.


"You can't read it can you, thiefers? Hehe, let me translate it for you, then!" Oluchi exclaimed. As she said such, she shoved Mr. Thief aside, Fontainan language right in front of her. "Méfiez-vous du papillon et de la gloire. Ils ont des pouvoirs de déformation de la réalité." Reading such aloud, she let out a giggle. "Hehe, it says be wary of the butterfly and the glory. They have reality warping abilities! Aren't I such a little cutie for translating that for you?"


Spider soon crawling behind her, Oluchi let out a little shriek. Dual axes seated in her hands, one arachnid after another had been squashed silly. Seeing such, the soldier's jaw dropped straight open. All it took to vanquish them was a blunt contusion? He supposed she had been a forced to be reckoned with, but the soldier knew he could never admit to such. Keeping such to himself, the duo kept moving forward.


Multiple arachnids destroyed one after another upon the pathway, the chimera's blade had been one contusion away from being the bludgeoning queen. But, as he moved himself forward, something had felt incredibly off. Was it just his imagination, or had the atmosphere gotten much thicker?


Thick, foreboding fog engulfing the forest, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Had he been transported back to the Foggy Forest in Fontaine? But, the chimera promptly shook his head. No, that couldn't have been it, surely. He merely had been sent somewhere very similar to such.


Oluchi saying she would fly upward to scout ahead, the chimera shrugged. If that was what she wished to do, he supposed he no reason to oppose her. Barely visible figure floating upward beyond his sight, he shook his head. What would she hope to be able to locate from up there?


Flight capable jackal telling him from up above to head east for awhile, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. What was she, some sort of compass? If she was, she was most certainly not a good one. Compasses only pointed north. She was far from being accurate. But, he had soon been guided towards the next stone tablet.


Multiple arachnids wringed out to dry as the stone tablet had been approached, Oluchi translated the piece in front of her. Such statue reading, the little butterfly dethroned the abyss queen, questions threw themselves around the hyena's brain. Who was this butterfly that had kept being mentioned?


Next stone tablet reading, crowned the faux leaders of the abyss, the glorious butterfly spread their wings and shook up everything, a heavy wave of questions flowed through him. What story was he being told just now? He did not know, but he knew it had to relate back to someone.


Moving right along upon the forest pathway, the soldier repeated such thought within him. This story, it had to relate back to someone But, who? Why did he feel like the butterfly had been someone heinous he had knew in the outside world? But, the chimera shook his head. It was just a story, a work of fiction. It was in no shape or form real, for sure.


Multiple arachnids taken out of the picture one after another, the soldier swore he could smell a rancid stench in the air. Plugging his nose, he tried with all his might to ignore it. But, such had been an utter failure. Putrid stink making its presence known, it had become impossible to ignore.


Forest's end soon reached after about an hour of walking, the soldier's eyes practically fell out of his face at the sight before him. Large arachnid lady whose spider bottom almost looked like that of a horse, the soldier's legs shook with a fervor. Stench only worsening around her, everything soon broke.


Oluchi's dual axes and hyena's claymore finishing the job, another stone tablet had entered the equation. Rocky piece written in Snezhnayan writing for some reason, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Words reading they knew of the old world, he tilted his head. What old world? None of this was making any sense.


Domain exit soon upon him, the horrible stench had soon come out with him. Finding himself back where he started, a sudden wave of tiredness overtook him. Feeling himself fall backwards, the chimera's eyelids drooped. Eyes closed, he could feel himself about to drift away.


Why was he so tired all of a sudden?


***


"Please tell me this is some kind of joke.
How am I supposed to believe something like this?
Eh, so can you
Repeat that please? Because I am not understanding this,
Obviously. Please, enlighten
Me. What do you mean those spider ladies have a lot
Of toxic pheromones.
No way. That's ridiculous. I
Especially don't believe
Something like this.


Aren't pheromones
Like some sort of attraction thing? I smelled something
Rancid. Honestly,
I quite highly doubt it had any sort of effect on me.
Guess it's not what really all that
Hard to attract over creatures
To your pheromones, but


What would I know? I
Haven't ever really experienced such
A thing. And,
To be honest, why would I?


Those spider ladies,
How could I ever be
Attracted to such pheromones?
There's absolutely positively without a shadow of a doubt now way. I


Could have just hit my physical limit.
Ah, yeah, that's it. It has to be.
No way it's linked to pheromones.
No way that's even remotely close to possible.
Of course it isn't.
There is just absolutely no shot of that.


Because, to be perfectly honest, I don't
Even see the logic here. So, I


Regard all this as
Egregious nonsense.
All of this is just a
Little too much for me


To take in. So, I
Hardly believe it.
Ah, well,
To be honest, it is what


It is. What happened happened.
So little of what I was told


Make any sense.
And I am just not having it.
Do I understand this at all?
Eh, to be perfectly honest, no. I far from


Understand any of this.
Perhaps it'll more clear to me later, but for


Now, none of it makes a lick
Of sense. I have
Never heard of
Spiders having pheromones. But,
Eh, what do I know?
Nothing, absolutely nothing.
So, I should stop letting my mind wander.
Eh, anyway, it's time for work. That's all that matters."


Coming to somewhere completely unknown to him, Rabiu had been beside him. Seeing such, the chimera scratched the side of his head. Where was he, and how did he get here? Worried look on the researcher jackal's face, the soldier blinked. What was he so concerned over? Whatever it was, he needed to quell them.


"Um, uh, Siorc, are you okay? I found you passed out outside that cave that popped up, so I, um, uh, took you to my home," Rabiu said, explaining the situation. "Those spiders you fought, um, they have strong toxic pheromones that can knock anyone out if exposed to it enough."


Inquiry coming his way, the soldier blinked. He had been affected by spider pheromones? How unusual. He didn't feel any different. Maybe they had already worn off while he had been in a deep dreamless slumber. Giving Rabiu a nod, the soldier lifted himself up from the blanket upon him. Readying to exit the area, a warning had come his way.


"Um, uh, try to be careful out there," Rabiu warned.


Nodding, the temporary detective soon removed himself from the unknown. Soon finding himself in the main research facility, the hyena removed his so called paranormal sightings paper. Reading what awaited him next, the soldier had winced up a storm for absolutely no one to see.


Third order of business upon the supernatural list informing him to go to the workshop and get rid of rogue bots, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Was this supposed to be a paranormal activity spottings list, or just a bunch of errands Her Majesty didn't want to take care of? The soldier did not know. Maybe it was a little of both.


Knowing he had no choice but to head off to the hidden workshop, the soldier had begun to head off towards the northwest. But, as he had done so, multiple questions flocked through him. What was the point of all this in the first place? None of this seemed to mean a thing, so why bother?


But, the chimera shrugged as he kept moving forward. He had no choice in the matter. Whatever his orders said goes. No matter what it said he had to do, he had to get it done. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living. Workshop getting closer with every breath, the chimera prepared himself.


Moving himself along, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. He did not know why, but he could sense a heavy feeling of someone watching him. But, the chimera immediately threw such thoughts away. He was overreacting, for sure. There were no eyes on him anywhere.


Preparing himself for the inevitable robotic monster battles, the hyena tossed himself towards the workshop entrance. Just what kind of mechanical beings would await him inside? Whatever they were, he new he had to defeat them all as fast as possible. Her Majesty was definitely watching him today, guaranteed.


Reaching the secret workshop after about an hour from the main research institute, the early adult took a long, deep breath. It was time to get the next stage over with and move on. But, what awaited him inside the ruins had been an annoying obstacle he had no interest in being in the same room as.


Spotting Folu up upon the top floor breathing rather heavy, face flushed, the chimera backed thirty steps away. Was the fancily dressed jackal chimera ill? He had seen enough here. It was time to go. But, the chimera stopped himself from turning around. He could not just leave. He had a job to take care of. Pesky jackal looking his way, their hoarse voice bounced around in his inhuman eardrums.


"Oh, it's just you, thiefy. Please excuse my disposition," Folu said, voice hoarse. As they said such, they let out a cough. "Those silly spiders did me in with their even sillier poison."


Hearing such, the early adult crab walked off towards the opposite direction. They had to have been contagious, or something. Whatever disease the spiders gave him, he didn't want any of that. Walking off towards the opposite direction, he had soon come across the first set of rogues to send to their metallic grave.


Oddly humanoid looking robots out in front of him, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. These were the rogues he had to deal with? Something wasn't adding up here. Creatures slithering towards him, he shook his head. Robots came in many shapes in sizes. These had been no exception whatsoever.


Metallic creatures slithering towards him, the soldier grit his teeth. What were these things supposed to be, snakes or humanoid? The temporary detective did not know. Maybe he should test out their patterns of movement a little before gifting them with the very first strike.


Creatures continuing to slither about, the soldier studied the robot further. Human face but metallic snake body, nothing came to him. Was this supposed to be some supernatural building? Where could it have truly been? Maybe if were to dig through a lost and found box, he would locate it.


Serpent robot looking ready to get on the offensive, the hyena responded in kind. Umbrella greatsword doing the honors, not a single dent had been provided to the serpentine robot creature. Seeing such, a wave of surprise flowed through the chimera. Had he not been hitting in the right place? Maybe he should try again.


Cracking his knuckles, the early adult kept the momentum going. But, as he kept on trying over and over again, not a single thing happened. Serpentine robot monster letting out a hiss and laughing, the pressure had begun to mount up against him. Trying once more, nothing clicked together.


Defenses of the opposing team remaining supreme, the soldier could feel the world around him crack into a thousand pieces. What was this creature, protected by some sort of impenetrable barrier? How aggravating, if so. But, perhaps, just maybe, the umbrella sword could break on through to the other side.


Swiping for minutes on end, the hyena swore he could hear something crack. Mechanical beast toppling itself over, the hyena ran off towards the backside. Behind slashed up a storm, a wave of shock soon flew threw him as the creature stood up once more. Did this enemy have regeneration powers, as well? He was done for, toast, a sitting duck. There was no way he was winning this battle.


Fight going on for hours on end, the soldier huffed and puffed. Just how much vitality did this creature have, one million hit points? Whatever a hit point was, the chimera had no idea. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, and even beyond, everything had a vitality system which went from zero to varied numbers.


Knife soon thrown the monster's way, a metallic head had soon rolled. Looking upward, the soldier blinked. What had Folu done just now to be able to achieve such a victory from afar? Was the only way to beat these rogue bots to remove their cranium from the equation? Cough interrupting everything, he looked upward.


"You probably shouldn't try too hard to beat these things," Folu said. But, as he said such, he let out a cough. "You'll get yourself hurt." But, viscous coughs kept interrupting his speech. "Please excuse me, I will go isolate myself down in the furthest chamber. Do not follow me."


Folu soon out of the picture, the soldier headed off towards the next area within the factory. Army of roguebots ready to attack right left, and center, the soldier let out a sigh. What did any of this have anything to do with paranormal activity? This was far from it. Did Her Majesty need a dictionary? She probably did. But, he knew he had to keep such a thought to himself, or she would kill him.


Peculiar looking bots that had been shaped like a spider, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. What was with all these creepy crawlies everywhere? Disgusting. He was quite tired of seeing these four legged creatures, no matter what form they were to take. It was time to put these rogues out of their misery once and for all.


Knowing his best course of action was to aim for the head, the soldier braced himself. Would this help eliminate the arachnid bots? The chimera sure hoped so. Crouching downward, the sword toppled the creature's craniums like they were underneath a guillotine ready for judgement.


But, the chimera threw such thoughts out the window. Maybe that had been far too morbid. Arachnid bot army continuing to strut out, the chimera let out a sigh. Just how many of these pitiful creatures were here? He had to get rid of the rest of them right here, right now, before the population could pile up.


Final set of bots vanquished for an audience of no one to see, the chimera huffed a weak breath. Had it finally been done and over with? Surely, that had to have been it here. He did not wish to stay in this dungeon of contagions for a moment longer. It was time to move onto the next order upon the list.


Next order of business being a crystal investigation within the Hydro Tulpa battlefield, the soldier tilted his head upward. What did any of this have to do with the paranormal or supernatural? It definitely did not. He had been bamboozled quadruple order. This order had been four for four on the absolute nothing scale.


Knowing the Hydro Tulpa domain had been all the way on the other side of Fontaine, the chimera let out a sigh. Why did he have to investigate this, of all places? Hadn't it been only accessible from the world underwater? What was paranormal about crystals? This had to have been a gag order, for certain.


Heading back towards the south for quite awhile, the soldier headed off towards Marcotte Station. Aquabus taking him back to the capital city of Fontaine, a wave of unease flowed through him as he had begun to walk through back towards the fourth floor northern city exit. Was it just him, or had there been even less people around in the city since yesterday?


Shaking his head, the early adult moved off towards the Aquabus Information Station. Reading his next order of business ahead of time, the chimera tilted his head at the information laid out in front of him. At midnight, Fonta floated around by itself? Yeah, right, sure they did.


Glass lift soon taken to the fourth floor, the early adult shook his head. Sure, Fonta floating around at midnight. There was absolutely, positively, no way that was true. Someone was passing around a rumor and passing it off as real on this one, for sure. He didn't believe this one for a second.


Heading off towards the city's exit, the chimera let out a gulp. Any second now, and the hawk chimera would arrow him down, guaranteed. But, as he pushed forward, such action did not occur whatsoever. Robin and Raven nowhere to seen, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. He did not know why, but the absence of those two had felt very wrong.


Reaching the deepest edges of Elynas after about an hour of walking, the chimera's fat blubbery suit had eaten him alive. Closing his eyes for a moment, a spark popped of in his brain. Mind and diving suit synched up to one another, the chimera dropped himself downward.


Soon finding the seabed that connected to the Hydro Tulpa, the chimera prepared himself. What kind of so called paranormal activity was about to await him? The chimera did not know. But, whatever it was, he knew he had to take care of it right here, and right now. Stepping foot upon the battlefield, two unlikely faces soon appeared within his vision.


Diver boy and catgirl magician's assistant fighting the Hydro Tulpa together, the soldier could see the crystals stashed in the corner. Hearing them both shout out battle cries, the chimera attempted to excuse himself. He was definitely not meant to be here. He needed to make this trip quick. But, the diver boy's eyes had soon been on him.


"It's you again," the diver boy said, voice monotone. "Are you here about the crystal spiders in the corner?"


Hearing such, the early adult let out a groan. There had been more spiders here? No, no, no, no. Why was this a never ending battle? Couldn't these spiders go away already? He had had quite enough of them at this point. But, he knew he had no choice but to do as he is told. Giving a nod, sour words had soon come his way.


"Why is he here?" the catgirl magician's assistant asked, irritated.


"-------, something wrong?" the diver boy asked.


"I smell a rat," the catgirl replied, finger pointed at the hyena.


Catgirl her usual self, the chimera shrugged. He supposed that not everyone could like him. He had his fare share of fans and detractors, and everything in between. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, dawdling like this? He had some crystal spiders to fight.


Crystal spiders soon awakening themselves from their dormant state, the soldier unsheathed his umbrella sword once more. Attempting to slay the beasts, such had been an impossible task from the start. Creatures dividing and conquering, he swore he could once again feel a rancid scent in the air.


More spiders than he bargained for, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. What was going on here, why were they multiplying so quickly? Something wasn't right here. Attacking to fight on with all his might, the chmera let out a battle cry. But, as such continued to go down, the struggle showed itself.


Crystal spiders spraying him with something, the early adult wobbled. Instant wave of tiredness overtaking him, the early adult could feel his body get heavy. What was this all of a sudden? Why had he been so sluggish? Spray taking him once more, his consciousness soon slipped into nothing.


Coming to sometime later, Rabiu appeared in the chimera's fatigued field of vision. Seeing him, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Where was he? Why was he down for the count? Had something happened? Researcher jackal lifting him upward, concerned inquiries had come his way.


"Um, uh, those spiders you faced have toxic chemicals in them," Rabiu said in a concerned one. "Did you, um, uh, get struck anywhere?"


Concern coming his way, the chimera shook his head. Had he been struck anywhere? He hardly recalled. Maybe he did, but he didn't feel especially out of the ordinary. Researcher jackal soon asking him it were alright to scan his bodies for abnormalities, he soon nodded. What was the worst that it could tell him? Health robots soon doing their scan, something rather unusual had come his way.


"Um, uh, this rather unusual," Rabiu said in a nervous tone. "Um? There's a sack inside you that is bouncing off the spider venom."


Hearing such, the soldier blinked. Did he have some immunity sack sitting inside him? He supposed such could have been a possibility at hand, even if a slim one. Rabiu soon exiting the peculiar battlefield, the soldier placed himself back into a laying position. Maybe he could get some more sleep before midnight were to arrive.


Midnight hours soon arriving, the soldier had defeated multiple robots on the way back towards the main laboratory. Odd influx of hostilities coming his way, the chimera could not help but wonder. Were they trying to prevent him from finishing this day and finding out the truth?


Reaching the main laboratory after about twenty minutes of walking, an unusual sight had been played out before him. Fonta bottles floating around everywhere without any clear reason, the chimera could hear multiple researchers scream about there being a ghost amongst them. Hearing such, he shook his head. Surely, there had to have been a logical explanation for this.


Researchers running away as they screamed about ghosts, the soldier shook his head. A ghost? Yeah right. It had to have just been an Abyss Mage from afar wanting to mess with people. But, such had been the most incorrect answer upon a multiple choice quiz. Unusual person floating around, astonishment ate the hyena up.


Sani snoring away while floating on the air jugging Fonta with his finger, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What was going on here? Something wasn't adding up. Removing the floating Fonta bottles from the equation, he swore he could see Sani open his eyes.


"Huh? Whoops! Sleep walking demons won again!" Sani exclaimed. He then lowered his singular eye left into a squint. "Huh? It's our favorite thief. What are you doing out here so late? Come, I'll let you sleep in our guestroom."


Dragged off towards the jackal chimera's home, the soldier stared off into space. Paranormal activity? His foot. Sani had just been using his anemomancy while he was asleep. That was hardly something supernatural at all. Comfy bed soon in front of him, the chimera closed his eyes. World of sleep readying to take him away, one last thought tossed itself down into the ring.


Paranormal activity? Yeah, right. Sure.


***


"At this point, I don't know.
These so called 'paranormal activities'


They are simply just
Hogwash. To be honest,
I can't even
See the supernatural, nor can I see


Phantoms of any kind,
Or spirits of any sort.
I just don't get it.
Nope. I really just don't understand
These orders. What


In in the world does


Any of this mean?
Maybe this was all


Some ploy to lure out the abyssal gazelles?
Uh, maybe not? I think they've
Removed themselves from all this.
Eh, or perhaps not?


There is just no way to know for sure,
Honestly, I don't know anything.
I really just know next to nothing,
So, that's just how it is.


Well, if this was just for the means of
Allowing the abyssal gazelles to
Stop hiding themselves


And cowering, I


Guess that's failed. Because
At this point, they have yet to
Grace me with their annoying faces.


Oh, well, so anyway. I have a
Rigid schedule, I guess.
Doubt anything
Even close to
Remotely supernatural will be happening.


Not at all.
Of course, I already knew that.


Why would anything happen
At all that is paranormal?
You know, I am just convinced now.


It was a gag order.
This was nothing more than a gag order. And,


I'm just one-hundred percent certain now.
So, after all this, I am done, finished.
No more of this soul searching.
There is nothing to see. I will be throwing in the towel shortly."


Waking up the next morning, the hyena clapped his hands together. Would there be more paranormal garbage awaiting him today to deal with? If such, today was the last day. He was tired of dealing with this nonsense. He would be retiring from this detective business as soon as possible.


Stepping into the jackal chimera's kitchen, the soldier could see a scene play out before him. Folu's face far more flushed than yesterday, the early adult backed ten steps away. Had he still been down with some sort of poisoning? It was best to stay away from him. He was not about to return to the world of toxins ever again, no way.


Soon seeing Rabiu place a hand on top of Folu's forehead, the soldier prepared himself to exit the home. Whatever was happening here at this moment was absolutely no business of his. He had some faux paranormal activity to deal with. He had to get away from here straight away. But, the researcher jackal had soon called out to him.


"Folu, um, you feel really warm, that's not good. I think the poison is lodged deep into your system," Rabiu said, words quivering. He then turned towards Siorc. "Um, Siorc, if you're heading out, um, apparently, there's this uh, hidden passageway at the bottom of the tower north of the central ruins."


Hearing such, the early adult's jaw dropped open. There was a what now? A set of secret ruins? What in the world was paranormal about that? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. This had gotten so far off track, he couldn't make heads or tails of anything anymore. Just what about this was paranormal? This secret passage could have always been there, for anyone could know.


Reaching the northern area within the Central Laboratory Ruins, some makeshift so called secret entranceway had been discovered. Seeing such, the hyena slapped his palm across his forehead? This was the supernatural entrance? Sure, it was. This was merely just vandalism, wasn't it? Nothing about it had be out of the ordinary.


Finding a strange purple mirror as he threw himself towards the entrance, a blinding light soon engulfed the hyena. But, what awaited him had been an eerie sunflower forest. Floating painting moving towards him, the chimera stared back at what laid in front of him.


But, as he attempted to look at the moving painting in front of him, robot creatures blocked the way. Seeing such, the hyena let out a sigh. Did they really have to get in the way like this? Ghastly umbrella sword doing its duty, the robot creatures had soon been slain. Pathway cleared, he looked at the painting with shock, and horror.


Abyssal gazelles inside the painting up to no good, the soldier let out a sigh. What were these two doing in these paintings? Watching as the party of two had been coronated upon the abyssal throne, the soldier placed his finger on his chin. What was this all about? But a worse painting had soon been played.


Blood splattering through the painting, the next scene played itself out for him to see. Bleeding robed bodies all piled up on top of one another, the familiar maniacal laugh had soon kicked off into overdrive. Abyss denizen begging for his life at the last minute, he swore he could hear Izzet say it was too late, they're taking the throne.


Final member of the abyssal counsel decimated in cold blood, the chimera's knees shook at the painting before him. Kelebek clutching the corpse's chest, a dark light engulfed one. Laughing, the early adult's heart skipped seven beats. What in the world was he looking at? What's happening here?


Monsters soon coming out of the woodworks once more, the soldier let out a sigh. Here it goes again. Did he have to fight in order to be able to witness the rest of these memories? Had he been in some former prison planet's grand theater or something? But the soldier shook his head. Wrong universe. What was he even talking about?


Enemies fading into the ether after thirty strikes, the next memory of terrors played itself out. Memory playing of the desert god, a wave of confusion nibbled on the cartilage of the hyena's ear. What did this have anything to do with the abyssal gazelles? But, as he thought such, a vortex blew him away.


Finding himself back in the Central Laboratory Ruins, the hyena blinked. Where had the secret passageway go? But, he shook his head. Maybe he had daydreamed the whole thing. Removing his instructions once more, the hyena looked over his next order of business, for the moment.


Told at the Opera House, the organ was playing itself, the hyena let out a laugh. What in the world was this? The organ had been playing itself. Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. This had to have been the worst one yet. It was faulty keys, guaranteed. What about this was supernatural?


Reaching the Opera House after about two hours of slow walking, the chimera had entered into a world of chaos. Loud organ screeching everywhere, the pesky penguin family, the Hydro Archon all cowered in fear. Tall bodyguard doing nothing but staring off into space menacingly, chatter hit the walls.


"It's moving!" Earl screamed, quivering.


"It's playing itself on stage!" Kaiser shouted pointing. "Hideous!"


"It's dancing and playing a tune all on its own!" Marquis chimed in. "How ugly!"


"Disgusting!" Esquire exclaimed.


"Okay, guys, let's not call my finest organ in all of Fontaine ugly," the Hydro Archon said in a holier than thou tone.


"Miss ------, forgive me for this, but are you seeing the same thing we are?" Baron asked rolling their eyes. "The organ is moving on its own, playing itself." As they said such, they adjusted their monocle. "Who would be calm in a situation like this?"


"Baron is right, however, you all must remain calm," the Hydro Archon's bodyguard said.


Everyone clamoring in fear, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. This was absolutely ridiculous. What in the world was this instrument doing? He supposed he would have to fight this creature to put a stop to it. Placing himself on stage, he forced himself to take a bow.


Hydro Archon trying to argue that this organ is her finest work, don't touch it, the chimera let out a sigh. He had no choice but to fight this organ. Instrument hopping towards him like it was some sort of chained up dog, the early adult's greatsword had been upon him.


Organ lunging at him, the instrument's keys flew his way. Letting out a sigh, the soldier bounced the projectiles backwards. But, what awaited him had been absolutely no surprise. Abyss Mage becoming visible in seconds, he lowered his eyes into a squint. Of course it was the robed denizens again, who else could have done this?


Paranormal activity, his foot.


Mage demanding a rematch, the chimera rolled his eyes. He'll get one, alright. Lunging at the creature with full force, it had soon been dropped onto the ground. Spinning it around like a circular washer device, the creature soon surrendered itself. Mage admitting defeat, the instrument stopped singing.


Acting troupe resuming activities, the hyena read the final order of business upon his list. Reading the cubes in the central laboratory ruins had dropped to the ground, the hyena blinked. Why even bother questioning any of this anymore? None of this was supernatural.


Reaching the Central Laboratory Ruins, something of predictable note played out in front of the soldier. Kelebek and Izzet toppling the high up water cubes and grounding them, the chimera rolled his eyes off towards the now visible sky. Paranormal activity, his foot. All this chaos was because of them, wasn't it?


Abyssal gazelles floating towards him, he let out a sigh. They were closing in on him. It was time to user Her Majesty's gift. Clipping the metallic rose upon his detective outfit, he prepared himself to press the button. But, such action never came. Party of two laughing at him, they let the facts be known.


"His silly flower won't be able to do anything!" Kelebek shouted.


"Your silly little present? We're gonna-" Izzet said, cutting themselves off. As they said such, their nails had soon grown long and black. Metallic rose out of the picture, they had once again, cut a useless object. "-Cut that little gift of yours up, nyahahaha! Can't do anything to us now, can you, meddler? Hope you had fun with our games! While you were going around and dealing with our little distractions, we set our poison all around Fontaine!"


Hearing such, the soldier could feel himself boil over like sunny side up eggs. The abyssal gazelles did what now? How dare they do such a thing. Poison all of Fontaine? Who did they think they are? That was the wrong move, and he would not stand for it. Just how many lives did they have to affect with their little revenge? This was a step too far. They were going down.


"Fight me!" the hyena accidentally blurted out.


"Nyahaha, you hear that?" Izzet asked in a mocking tone. "This weakling seriously thinks he can beat us!" As they said such, their pitch black claws sunk deep into him enough to carve through bone. Hole through his uniform, they let out a laugh. "You'll never beat us. You don't stand a chance."


"Consider this a warning, meddler!" Kelebek said. "He doesn't know what you're capable of!" As one said such, they jumped through the portal.


Red liquid painting the detective outfit, the soldier shook with a fervor. Great, he had gotten this outfit dirty, how was he supposed to return it to Malika now? Cubes reversing back to normal as if they had never fallen, the soldier dragged himself back towards the city meekly.


Detective outfit and temporary hairpins and earrings soon returned, questions had come his way about the red stains. Bowing an apology, Malika had soon shook her head. Informed she would just wash out the stains, he had soon exited the boutique. Dragging himself off towards the city's, the ginger Fatui soon awaited him.


"You're done now, soldier, this 'paranormal activity' mission is over," the ginger Fatui said. "Go back to Snezhnaya now, this instant. You are dismissed."


Dismissal soon granted, the chimera removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Dragging himself through the icy cold hallways, the early adult's thoughts buzzed. The abyssal gazelles, they had poisoned Fontaine, what was going to happen? Was it lethal? Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, a wave of tiredness soon engulfed him.


Heavy wave of tiredness erupting inside him, the soldier returned his weaponized hairpins and earrings into the jewelry and accessory box. Uniform soon put away as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. World of sleep about to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


Were the Abyssal Gazelles unstoppable?

 

[Palamon]

37. Fleuve Cendre Chronicles: Reverse Reaper

"It's getting stranger,


Am I really supposed to believe
My orders aren't some ploy? This


Might be the most
Obvious ploy yet. Yeah,
Right 'get on the Archon's good side,'
Every time I hear something similar I


Can't help but notice the
Obvious manipulation.
No, perhaps not, but
For what it's worth I
Ultimately do not mind
Sometimes, it is
Easier to have lower stakes.
Do I see a point in


This? To be
Honest, not really.
All and all,
Nothing can be done I have to do


Everything I am told or
Violence will come from me.
Even if I do not quite
Really understand any of this, there is


Nothing I can do
Orders are orders.
What awaits me today?


Guess I will see. I have to be
Open to everything.


To everything.
One request, two? They'll be


Fulfilled. I will do them all. It's
Likely just going to be
Errands over and over again
Ultimately, that's how it usually is, I
Very much know that
Every single time it's always the same


Can't complain
Either way, doing so is forbidden. I
Never utter such things,
Don't want to awarded bloodshed as a
Result. So, silence is key
Everything must be done in silence


As it should be.
Get ready for
Anything and everything
I have no right to refuse
No right to say


Anything. So, just say
Nothing, utter nothing.
Don't question anything.


How long will this go on for?
Eh, who knows.
Likely a few days.
Perhaps more.


There is no such thing
Here as a predictable work day.
Everything is random, chaotic.


Likely always will be
Everything is always
So random,
So unpredictable.


For almost eight years
Of this world I've been
Roped into by force,
There has rarely ever been one
Ultimate path.
Nothing is ever the same
At a day
To day level.
Even diplomatic affairs or business affairs wildly vary.


I know nothing


About what each and every single day
Might bring. Especially in Fontaine.


Nothing has been normal there.
Or, perhaps I'm exaggerating.
That has to be it,


Surely. I have had patterns before,
Ultimate ones, though?
Rarely. Almost never.
Each routine of mine has


Warped into something else
How this can
Even be is beyond me,
Really, nothing quite
Ever makes sense.


Though, I suppose I'm used to that.
However, it matters very little
I'm am used to
Something, yet


I will also never truly be.
So, whatever orders


Come my way from the less fortunate,
Or underprivileged.
Maybe I don't know but about Fleuve Cendre.
I suppose I never learned anyway, I
Never ask questions. So,
Get to it


For I have a lot of
Ridiculous request looming
Over me. Ah,
Maybe I shouldn't say that.


After all,
That's quite a rude


Assumption of me.
Look, some request are quite strange, and I do not
Like that, be no


Opinions allowed. I
Have to everything


Without thinking about it
Everything without question.
Look, one wrong move and I'll be
Let out to dry. I'll


Likely be a corpse if I
Ever disappoint Her Majesty again,
There's a limit to this,
Surely, and I am


Getting close to reaching it.
One wrong move, and I'm a goner. I must do this job perfectly."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The anguish was a quark board, with many points strung together by a singular line. Such linearity was always attempting to diverge into opposite directions. The night before him would continue the pattern, as well.


Before him had been the large willow tree beside the lake surrounded by desert willow flowers. Seeing such, a wave of heavy confusion flowed through the early adult's subconscious. Why did the dream world take him to the Weeping Willow of the Lake? But, the hyena supposed he had been to such area enough times for it to stick within his memory.


Walking towards the tree, the chimera turned the dream head towards the right and left. Sensing something foreboding in the air, the hyena kept himself on his subconscious toes. Any second now, and horror would await him. Seating himself by the desert willows, the soldier stared off into dream space.


Nothing happening for dream minutes on end, the hyena huffed a breath. Perhaps, just maybe, nothing would happen in the dream world tonight. But, he had soon been sorely mistaken. Cold hands upon his backside, the early adult tumbled into a ball. Feeling his body drop downward, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment.


But, what awaited him upon opening them once more was quite the unusual sight to behold. Unfeeling sand crunching beneath his feet for a moment, the early adult scratched his dream head. Why did the land of the subconscious take him to the deserts of Sumeru? The Errinyes Forest had been quite distant from the Great Red Sand.


Such had only been the beginning of the peculiarities. People soon appearing out of nowhere, the hyena could hardly believe his dream eyes at the two strangers entering the scene. Spotting a young gazelle individual with long orange hair and a Sumeran style dress that looked no older than the age of five, and young gazelle person with short orange hair that went down to their ears, the early adult almost did a quadruple take. What were Damla and Firat doing here?


Spotting Kelebek and Izzet in the corner, as well, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why did they look almost exactly the same except or their height? How very suspicious. But, the chimera threw such thoughts out the window. This was nothing more than a dream. It was all fictional, it would all leave him when morning comes. Gazelle children speaking to one another, the early adult kept his ears open.


"Mommy says we're not supposed to leave Caravan Ribat," Damla said, shaking cos head.


"We're gonna be in so much twouble!" little Firat exclaimed.


Hearing tiny Kelebek and Izzet erupting into maniacal laughter, the early adult flinched. These two were about to do something sinister. He needed to put a stop to this before it was too late. But, such rescue never came. Cranium hitting a glass wall, the early adult grit his teeth. He had been a prisoner of war. All he could do was sit. Sit and watch as the chaos were to unravel.


"You won't be going home anymore," small Kelebek responded, laughing.


Small Kelebek continuing to laugh for dream minutes on end, the early adult banged his fists upon the glass wall. Why had he been locked in here? Let him out. But, the prison did not budge. Punches continuing with a fury, he let out a scream. He had to do something, anything, to prevent this from happening. Why had the glass been keeping him?


"What do you mean, Kerry?" little Firat asked in an innocent tone. But, a sinister laugh had soon come ser way.


"We're glad you asked, dear cousin!" small Izzet exclaimed. As the said such, they snapped their fingers. "Feel something different?" There had been a sinister look on their face.


Tiny gazelle pair's faces turning blue, in an instant, the early adult banged upon the glass prison harder. What was happening? Why was he being placed into the audience for something like this? This was not right. He should not have been here. He was bystander.


"Kerry, help, I can't breathe!" little Firat screamed, choking on every breath.


"H-h-elp u-s ppp-l-ea-se, i-it huuu-rt-s," little Damla choked out.


Abyssal gazelles laughing hysterically, the early adult's smacks intensified. Who was making him watch this? He should be in the audience for such a thing. Glass not breaking even a smidgeon, the soldier forced himself to sit. Nothing could be done. He was at the mercy of box world.


Kelebek snapping one's fingers, the little fawn's human legs had soon become lower gazelle bodies. Dream space around him warping, the hyena placed his hand over his mouth. His dream stomach had been jelly. Closing his eyes for a moment, everything steadied.


Finding himself back by the lake once more, a scene of utter terror had soon played out in front of him. Tiny fawn bodies dropping down towards the bottom of the lake like a rock, a wave of shock possessed the hyena like a ghost on Wuwang Hill. How could someone do such a cruel thing? The abyssal gazelles, they were far from normal, for sure. But, his subconscious thoughts had soon been interrupted as a voice called out to him.


"Do you see now?" a mysterious voiced asked. "These two have to be stopped." The voice, however, soon cut out.


Glass box cracking into a thousand pieces, the early adult's dream eyes opened wide. Fragments bursting into flames, the hyena attempted with all his might to run. Such, however, was an impossibility. Feeling a nonexistent adhesive lock his currently hyena feet into place, the chimera was a paperweight.


Shards speeding towards him, the sharp edges and his torso had soon become intertwined with one another. Flames engulfing him in no time flat, the soldier's dream energy had begun to dissipate into nothing. Flames travelling upward, his body had been charcoal. Dream life ready to fade away, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the dream battlefield as his thoughts raced to the finish line.


Stop them?


But how?


***


"I truly do not understand what I just witness. Was that


Real? The dream I just had? Maybe not, but I am getting this
Eerie feeling that it might have
Actually happened in reality. It is extremely
Likely. But, this doesn't make any sense to me.
You know, I am not


All that powerful, nor do I have power to see other people's lives in a dream.
Maybe this was someone else's doing? It


Just has to be. I could not have done this.
Unless I might have achieved
Such power in my sleep. No,
That cannot be it. It just


Cannot be. I am
Obviously jumping to conclusions. There is
No way I could have been the one to have.
For, I do not have that ability,
Unless I have always had it
Subconsciously. But, no I do not think so.
Even though I am
Dendro, that is probably not possible.


Ah. Maybe this was not something that truly happened.
But, I have this nagging feeling it absolutely did.
Oh, well. Dreams aren't real.
Ultimately, I know that.
They do not reflect reality


At all. It is just the brain being overactive when
Lulled into the sleep world. Perhaps, I was thinking about the undersea gazelles. Such is
Likely. I cannot quite


Think what else it could be.
How did I see younger version of themselves?
I do not know, I
Suppose my imagination has gone


Wild. It is never ceasing,
How I imagined them
All of that could be very inaccurate.
There is absolute, positively no


Way the undersea gazelles look like that in childhood,
And there is no way the abyssal gazelles were just
Smaller versions of themselves in childhood.


That makes
Hardly any sense
At all. I know that
There is no way they ever looked like that.


Definitely not. No possible way.
Right. Why would the abyssal gazelles look
Exactly the same, but shorter, that's
Absolutely ridiculous.
Maybe that might be the case for immortals,


And ageless beings, but the
Likelihood of such being the case for the hooded strangers?
Less than one percent.


Actually, what do I know? That's a
Baseless claim. There's is
Obviously no way to know such a thing.
Ultimately, I know that.
There is no way to know such


Information. And, even so if


They are beyond the mortal plane,
How would I know such a thing?
I do not.
Nothing about the abyssal gazelles makes sense. And, I
Know next to nothing about them.


I do not know what
They're after why they want revenge,


And more importantly, how deep it goes.
Cannot quite fathom it,
Though, I am starting to see things more clearly,
Unless there is
A missing piece to the puzzle, it's starting to
Look like I truly understand everything. There is
Likely just a few pieces still missing.
Yes, just a few that


Have to be filled in.
And, honestly,
Perhaps it is time I look more into them.
Perhaps, I should delve
Even deeper. Last time, I found out a little.
Nothing substantial but
Every bit of information counts.
Do I believe this will help me


In the long run?
Not really, no. It


Really will not do much of anything.
Even so, regardless of
All that. It is more
Likely than ever now they are planning something
Irreversible, and
There is very little time left.
Yes, time is ticking. I need to stop them before it's too late."


Four days had passed since the early adult dealt with the strange beanstalks and domains in the Belleau and Morte regions. Multiple rather horrifying and dangerous events had broken out in the Research Institute, the hyena had been tasked with cleaning up the messes left behind. Spill cleaned up after seventy-two hours, the abyssal gazelle's revenge had only begun to intensify. Business affairs of nothing returning for the fourth and final day, normalcy rose up from the ground like a zombie.


The sound of bitter wind let out a disturbing whistle upon every single window imaginable. As the windows and walls kept shaking, countless Fatui soldiers groaned in an echo. The month long blizzard was about to reach its final stages. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal in the permafrost north.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his tormented slumber. Lifting himself upward, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He needed to snap out of it. Dreams weren't real. Removing himself from the uncomfortable bed, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the chimera placed his uniform over his layered shirts, he could not help but wonder. Had he just witnessed the undersea gazelle's past? But, the chimera shook his head. There was no way that could have been possible. Dreams weren't real. Emptying his mind, he took the cover off his jewelry and accessory box.


Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching Windwheel Asters adorned his hair and ears. Clapping his hands together, the hyena prayed to the Dendro Archon he wasn't supposed to worship to be protected from any possible harm that might loom over his shoulder for the day.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier stared at the yellow-green orb below him. His vision, did having a Dendro one give him the ability to see other people's past in his dreams? But, the soldier shot such thought with a sniper rifle. That's not possible. Why was he jumping to such wild conclusion? There was absolutely no way.


Heelless shoes on, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. Dream flashing through his mind, another scream bounced off and around the steel walls. Tears streaming down his face, the chimera could feel himself begin to break. Why did he have to be in the audience for such a tragedy?


Wiping his tears, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had Damla and Firat been trying to warn him about something? But, the chimera shook his head once more. Dreams were not reality. He needed to stop thinking about it. There was no way that could have happened.


Biting into his rations one singular time, the soldier put the bowl down. He did not know why, but he couldn't seem to find himself with an appetite. But, he knew it was horrible to waste food. His parents had always told him throwing out perfectly good food was not okay. Leaving the gruel where it was, the chimera stared at the steel wall.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp off with a loud roar, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Soldier, is something wrong?" the Agent asked out of nowhere. "You haven't touched your rations."


The early adult flinched. Had it been that noticeable from afar the food bowl was full? Was that really a reason for concern? He was a hyena chimera. He hardly had to eat as much as a normal human did. But, he supposed it was in his best interested to apologize for such action.


"Sorry, sir," the chimera responded, voice barely audible. "I was not hungry."


"I see," the Agent said, scratching his mask. "In any case, soldier, you will be heading to Fleuve Cendre to help the less fortunate to remain in the good graces of the Hydro Archon." the masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "The Iudex wishes to speak with you, as well."


The chimera jumped four steps back upon hearing the Chief Justice's title. Why did the Iudex want to speak to him? Did he have to do more diplomatic affairs today? Why couldn't someone else handle such a task? He was not cut out for diplomacy whatsoever. The art of negotiation was beyond him.


Fleuve Cendre ringing in his ears as well, the chimera blinked. How would assisting the less fortunate help him to remain in the good graces of the Hydro Archon? There was no way Focalors would even notice him performing such a feat. Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. No such thing would ever happen.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Why are you more spaced out than usual today? Whatever it is that is bothering you, get over it!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "We don't have time for this dawdling. You have a job to do, so get in gear!"


The hyena flinched. Right, he had a job to do. There was no time for thinking. Work was more important above all else. Taking a long, deep breath, the chimera placed his hand out in front of him. It was time to stop thinking, and get working. The choice was not his if he wished to keep on living.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. He knew he had no choice in the matter.


"Alright, soldier, we are leaving, then," the Agent responded. "But, you must be careful. Fontaine is not looks so good right now." Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as relentless as it always had been, the chimera closed his eyes as the escort towards Fontaine soon began.


What could possibly be going on in Fontaine now?


***


"It is finally time


At the end of this week, I'm
Moving away to Petrichor.


Far away from Fleuve Cendre, and my temporary abode in the East Slopes.
I won't be returning to poor country, at least
Not now. It's about time I leave the nest forever,
After all I,
Lonan am in my twenties now.
Leaving the nest behind is how it should be
You know? Rab told


Me he left his nest
Over a year ago. Or something. He tells me he used to live in the
Volcanic regions of Natlan.
I'm not judging here. Even though I've heard
Natlan natives can't leave.
Guess us chimeras really aren't welcome anywhere, are we?


Shoot, let's not get down in the dumps.
Out with the
Old, and in with the
New. I don't want this energy sticking with me.


I will be packing pretty soon.


Well, that's what
I should be doing right now, but
Looks like something's wrong again. There's been a
Lot less people around lately.


But I don't know why. I could
Easily say, this isn't my problem, but you know, I can't just


Look away. The stark drop in population is a bit
Eerie. I can't get
Any good
Vibes at all, and
It's throwing me off kilter.
Now and again, I hear people
Getting a little scared,


Bawling about being spirited away
Or something.
That's a little silly,
Honestly, I am not vibing with that. It's


Getting pretty dramatic. I
Would have thought a few days ago, this is all for a show at the Opera
Epiclese, but, that is seemingly
Not the case. People really are
Disappearing. It's been going
On for quite a few days now. I haven't been sent to deal with it. It's
Likely my cousin might have been.
You know, this is
Not quite what I'd describe


As a bounty that
Needs to be hunted, so I
Don't really get it.


Maybe I should try to at least understand.
Yet, I dunno is I ever will.


Perhaps I should go
Over and see what's going on, but I
Probably won't have the time to do
So. I got some packing to do.


But, I guess I am not moving yet. But,
Every day is one step closer to
Heading out of here, and
I can't waste any time.
None, at all.
Don't put off today what can't be done tomorrow.


So, I guess I'm going to just ignore all the
Overt chaos going on around
Me. I am inside, and it seems those
Eerie cubes
Only appear in outside areas.
None have appeared indoors. I am
Especially puzzled about this. But, I


Rather not question the complicated.
I am all about the easy, and
Chill life with some
Hard work here and there.


Perhaps it is just better this way.
After all,
I am not so good with the unknown,
Do not dealing with the extra terrestrial.


Mmmm, well, none of that stuff is real, anyway. Have I
Ever seen those


Aliens I read about in books? No. This is


Like, probably some
Open experiment from one of Rab's bullies.
Those three


Others in his
Family who always tell him he's adopted.


Maybe I really
Ought to consider having him move in with me. But
Rab will probably tell me no,
And all that.


Something about he can't move in with another man that isn't his boyfriend,
Or something. Well,


I don't know, I get all
That. It's not like


I'm about to ask him out, I know he's
Set his heart on Black Fish Steak Bro.


That's fine though,
I knew that for awhile now, but I don't now,
Maybe I just want to get him away from his bullies.
Every once in awhile, I see


The biggest root to all of those 'adopted' jokes,
Oluchi, and she's.


She's a nasty little thing,
And I'd like to get him away from her,
You know? I can kinda tell she's the one instigating all that. But, I


Get that he's probably not interested.
Oh, well, I'll still try. Because
Oluchi's just been getting much worse lately. I really
Don't know what's up with that chick, she's a
Bright inventor, and
Yet she's always so mean to Rab. And then
Eggs him on with she's cute, so she can say whatever she wants.


That's now how that works, but I'm not about to fight
Oluchi, I think if I did, she'd call


Me a reject, or something.
Yikes, if so.


Oh, well. I don't got the time to be
Letting my mind wander about all that.
Don't have the time.


Life will be going on and
I have to get myself ready
For my next step in life.
Even though there's a lot of chaos here, there's nothing I can do right now, unfortunately."


Teleport waypoint taking him to the desert edges as usual, the chimera broke out into an immediate shiver. Was it just his imagination, or had there been a heavy atmosphere? But, his thoughts had soon been cut off as he had been dragged down the mountain.


Placed into the wooden vessel, the chimera stared off into space. He did not know why, but the foreboding sense of doom would not leave him, even for a moment. Waves slapping the boat as it cruised forward, the hyena's knees buckled. Was there a storm coming on the horizon?


As the vehicle of human movement drew ever so closer towards the harbor, water splashed the chimera's lenses. World becoming the ocean, the hyena removed his glasses, for a moment. Debris rubbed off, he held back a groan. Why were the seas so rough today? Something wasn't right.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor before he even knew it, the hyena had been dragged towards the staircase. Agent telling him for what felt like tredecillionth time to not teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the chimera bellowed a growl. He knew that already. Hadn't he heard this enough already?


Satchel slammed onto his backside, one final set of words had come the soldier's way. Told to, once again proceed with caution, the Agent soon exited the area. Letting out a sigh, he soon shook his head. Just how dangerous could it be? Knowing it was time to leave, the early adult prepared to head for the Aquabus. But, something of terrifying note soon caught his attention.


Not a single soul anywhere to be seen within the harbor, fear nibbled on the cartilage of they hyena's ear. Where was everyone? Not even the man and his dog were anywhere to be seen. But, the early adult attempted to shake it off. There had been countless times when there had been no one around. This had been no different.


Ascending the staircase and taking the glass like like usual, not a single soul stirred within the area. Harbor devoid of life, the sense of fear returned like an unwanted wart. Not even the employees had been around. Had there been some sort of storm coming? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. He shouldn't distract himself.


Pressing the button to summon the Aquabus, the soldier waited. Vehicle of automatic movement arriving after twenty minutes, the usual Melusine tour guide did not await him. Rich generic nobody sitting in her spot instead, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through him. Where was Aeval? Seating himself towards the back, he gazed at the woman in front of him. Eyes on her, he placed his hands out in front of him.


Wagging his index finger back and forth, the hyena curled his fingers downward, thumb sitting over them, his pinky stuck upward. Pinky placed down for a moment, his thumb had soon been stuck upward, then down underneath his four other digits. Victory sign held upward for a moment, he closed his hand once more, thumb sticking upward. Shaping his index finger and thumb into an l shape, where is Aeval had been signed on private display.


"Aeval? She's ill, I'm fillin' in for her," the rich nobody said. "Don't expect a tour!"


Vehicle of automatic movement soon cruising forward, the early adult shook with a fervor. It was quiet here, too quiet. Generic nobody cracking open a book entitled the Art of Negotiation, the chimera blinked. They'd make books about anything, didn't they? But, the hyena turned away. It was not his business whatsoever what she was reading.


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, something of peculiar note caught the chimera's attention from afar. Spotting a strange black box off in the distance towards the Beryl Region, the hyena scratched the side of his head. What in all of Teyvat was that thing?


But, the chimera turned his attention away. He was imagining it, surely. There was absolutely nothing of concern to worry himself over. Surely, it was nothing. Keeping himself still within the vessel, the capital city of Fontaine was cruising ever so closer as the minutes moved onward.


Foreboding sense of doom still lingering right around the corner, the hyena slapped his cheeks. There was nothing wrong here. Surely, his mind had been playing tricks on him. Perhaps, just maybe one of those water cubes from the Research Institute moved itself to Elynas. That had to have been it, surely.


Aquabus soon arriving at the capital city of Fonaine, the soldier attempted to disembark the vehicle. But, as he attempted to do so, he could feel hands yank on his jacket with full force. Feeling such, the chimera let out a yelp. This rich woman, what was she doing? Remaining in his spot, her palm had soon been out in front of her.


"Pay up," the generic nobody demanded.


Demands of Mora coming her way, the early adult could feel a wave of disgust flow through him. Who did this woman think she was holding her palm out expecting money? This was a free ride. Did she think she was entitled just because she was sitting in the front of the vessel? Absolutely not. She hadn't done the tour. She did not deserve any compensation. Attempting to exit the vessel, his uniform had been grabbed once again.


"I said, pay up," the generic nobody demanded again.


Rolling his eyes towards the sky, the chimera took out his wallet. Dropping one thousand mora into her hand, the soldier disembarked the vehicle. Generic rich nobody attempting to demand more, the hyena would not give in. The Iudex would be hearing of this ill behavior. If she wanted more, she could heckle someone else.


Knowing he had to head for the bottom floor of the city, the chimera prepared himself to head off towards the southern streets. Keeping himself on his toes, the hyena pushed on through. Silence eating him alive, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left.


Almost no one walking around the city streets, a heavy wave of discomfort flowed through the hyena. Where in the world was everyone today? The walkways were empty. How could this be? Something was not right here. But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. Maybe the usual people were at the opera house right now. Court cases could happen anytime, anywhere, at any given moment.


Moving along, the soldier swore he could see a tumbleweed blow on through on the ground. Knees shaking, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. It was a ghost town here, for sure. The silence was deafening. But, the hyena kept pressing on. He should not let such a thing bother him.


Closed signs littered everywhere as he kept moving forward, the soldier could feel the world fall apart around him. Even the shopkeepers weren't around? Just what was going on here? Something was off. But, the early adult tried to throw such thoughts away. Maybe there was a holiday going on. Surely, that had to have been it.


Pushing through the northern pathway, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Windows boarded up, the soldier studied such, for a moment. Was a hurricane coming? He knew such strong winds had been powerful enough to shatter glass windows.


Gazing at the sky up above him, not a cloud had been in the sky. Rescinding such from consideration, the soldier kept moving forward. There was no way a hurricane was on the horizon. Anemo and Hydro would not shake hands with one another, guaranteed.


Shaking his head rapidly, the chimera tried to keep his attention on the workday ahead of him. Why was he letting himself worry over such a thing? There was nothing wrong here. He needed to stop focusing on what was going on around him. He had a job to do. If Her Majesty were watching him, she would kill him for taking too much time to get from point a from point b.


Speeding up his walking speed a smidgeon, the hyena could hear voices from afar. Robotic voice saying error, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. At least the receptionist at the Adventurer's guild was around. Did she ever leave her post? No one going over to her for work, the chimera moved along.


Hearing a lot of chatter up ahead towards the Chioriya Boutique, the hyena tilted his head. There had been people around after all? How unusual. But, he supposed they had been speaking at a frequency too low for his shark eardrums to pick up. Figuring such to be the case, he kept walking.


People frantically passing by, the soldier swore he could hear multiple generic nobodies say they were going to get spirited away. Hearing such, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. What was all this nonsense about? No one was going to get spirited away, for sure. This was Fontaine, not Inazuma.


Multiple people running into Chioriya Boutique screaming they needed disaster couture, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. They needed what now? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Why would anyone panic buy? No one should go and do such a thing.


Moving through the western streets, countless generic nobodies dashed off towards the Chioriya Boutique one after another. Same thing about disaster couture repeated the early adult shrugged his shoulders. If the more fortunate wanted to waste their mora on clothes they would only wear once, that was their business.


Man at the café lowering the shutters screaming he wasn't getting spirited away, the words ate the chimera up like plate of steak tartare. Owner of the restaurant running away shouting he's not letting them take him away, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. Had there been a malevolent spirit on the loose?


Pushing through the western streets, a ton had been dropped on the hyena's backside. Could there have been an malicious spirit taking people away? If such were the case, he needed to proceed with caution, or he would be dragged away into the ghost world, as well.


Clearing his throat, the soldier prepared himself to descend the staircase. Why was he letting the generic nobody's words get to him? There was no way he would be spirited away. Surely, the nobodies were merely exaggerating. There was nothing wrong here.


But, as the soldier moved past the closed blacksmith, he could see a face up close he did not wish to see. Spotting Earl with a look of pain on his face, the hyena turned his face off towards the opposite direction. Why was it, that no matter what, he would run into the penguin chimeras in the Court of Fontaine?


Pesky penguin chimera's eyes turning towards him, the soldier again kept his attention off towards the opposite direction. There was only one thing certain in life. Mint, someone dying at the Northland Bank for their debts, and the thorn in his sides. Knowing he would not be left alone, the hyena gazed at Earl.


Seeing Siorc walking past the blacksmith without a care in the world, Earl could feel the alarm bells ringing in his head. Siorc had been here today? He should back and go back home right now. It was dangerous here. If one of the black cubes spirited him away, he could hardly live with himself. He needed to tell him to turn back right now.


"Hi, there Siorc, why are you here today?" Earl asked. "You should go back home so you don't get spirited away by those black cubes!"


Hearing such, the hyena rolled his eyes off towards the sky. Even this pest was talking about being spirited away? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. He was not a Fontaine born person. Why would he be taken away by these so called black squares? Would telling this thorn in his side his concern was unfounded keep him quiet? He supposed it was worth a shot.


"I will manage, sir," the chimera responded, voice barely audible. "I am not from Fontaine." But, such had been met with immediate protest.


"I knew you would say that!" Earl exclaimed, waving his hands in the air. "Those cubes are sucking everyone in, no matter the region!" His hands kept on moving up and down as he spoke. "Malika and Baron were eaten up by those things, and we're originally from Snezhnaya!"


Hearing such, a shock dropped down the chimera's spine. Malika, Earl and Baron were from Snezhnaya? He did not know why, but he did not expect such to be the case. Shaking his head, he attempted to step by him. His concern was unfounded. Why would he be spirited away? He was being ridiculous.


"I'll manage sir," the hyena said again, voice barely audile. As he said such, he turned towards the opposite direction.


Moving past the empty blacksmith, the chimera prepared himself for the ramp ahead. Surely, all of this had to have been some sort of misunderstanding. Perhaps, just maybe, everyone had been pulled into some domain nearby. That had to have been the case.


Opening the doors towards the underground world, the chimera steeled himself. What kind of requests were about to await him today? He knew, whatever he was told to do, he would have to get it done, no questions asked. Ladder soon in front of him, the soldier prepared himself for the long descent downward.


But, upon reaching the bottom, chaos had been uprooted in a matter of moments. Feeling an even deeper sense of foreboding doom, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just him, or did something feel incredibly off down here? Shaking it off, the hyena moved forward.


Multiple people mumbling under their breath that they were going to get spirited away, an alarm bell rung inside the hyena's mind. Even the people in the underground world had been worried about such a thing? Just how far did this terror spread? It had gone too far.


Children of the underground world running around in a panic, a wave of disappointment flowed through him. Even the younger groups had fallen prey to the nonsensical spirited away rumors. Why hadn't anyone told them there was nothing to worry about? Rumors were a disease.


Spotting Lonan in the corner attempting to tell everyone it had been safe here, not a single person had been swayed. Seeing such, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Just how deep had the seeds gone? He could not help but feel they had been extremely deep. Head soon turning towards him, the bird man's pink eyes were soon stuck to him like glue.


"Black fish steak bro, you're here!" Lonan exclaimed. He then turned towards the very few people not panicking. "Malikers said if you guys got requests, you know what to do."


Flood of people crowding around him all at once, the hyena could feel himself shrink. Why had so many people been crowding around him? Just how many people needed things done around here? It was a swamp, and he was drowning in it. Dozens of people closing in the walls were dying.


"Woah, guys, chill, give the bro some space," Lonan said in a chill, but there was hint of aggravation in his voice. "Malikers said three at a time." As he said such his feathers dropped onto the ground. "If your request isn't priority, lay off the man, kay?"


Group of people leaving the vicinity, space returned to the soldier. Only three people left standing, the soldier backed two steps away. He supposed he was grateful to Malika for setting a ground rule. Taking a deep breath, he turned his attention towards the first person. Generic man with blond hair staring at him, his first order of business had come his way.


First person requesting him to take the air roger in the northern portion of the Court of Fontaine to the coast off of the Belleau Region to a client of his, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Surely, this was something he could do himself. But, the hyena threw such thought into a jar. The rumors about being spirited away had run too deep.


Giving the man a nod, a heavy crate crammed to the rim with alcohol deep inside had been handed off to the soldier. Strong, disgusting scent wafting into his nostrils, he bagged the filth immediately. This is what he had to deliver? Knowing he had no choice in the matter, an invisible white flag had been waved. Whoever wanted this devil's liquid, they had better appreciate it.


Second person gazing towards him, a predictable request had come his way. Tired researcher asking him to go to the northeast most tower in the Research Institute to clear out some rogue machines, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. He had forgotten some the other day? How could he do such a thing? He will clean that up right away.


Third and final person asking him to investigate the large black cube spotted in Elynas, fear nibbled on the cartilage of his ear. Someone wanted him to gather information about that sinister thing? Knowing he had no choice in the matter, the hyena nodded. Turning back towards the direction he came, multiple people told him to proceed with caution all at once.


Returning to the surface world, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Knowing it was in his best interest to head for the Air Roger first, the chimera ascended the ramp once again. City as dead as it had been earlier, the soldier could feel a chill drop down his spine. Could the people have truly been spirited away?


Gazing his head upwards towards the sky, the chimera knew he had to prepare himself for the hawk chimera to attack him at any given moment. Was he about to be blamed for something he had not a single hand in? If such were the case, words would be flung his way, without a second thought.


Reaching the Aquabus Information station after about twenty minutes walking, not a single soul stirred within. Employees gone fishing, the hyena flipped the sign over. Was now really the time for such humorous statements? Moving past the empty room, the soldier pushed himself towards the glass box.


Doors opening themselves upward, the hyena pressed the button for the fourth floor. As the vehicle moved itself upward, the chimera could not help but wonder. Just how many people had been spirited away at this point? Almost the entirety of the Court of Fontaine region had been empty.


But, the hyena perished such thought. Surely, this had to have been some sort of exaggeration. Humanity feared the unknown that's all it was, surely. Elevator passing by the second floor, the hyena waited. No one getting on, the machine started itself up again once more.


Glass box reaching the fourth floor, a reminder flowed back into the hyena's fading human brain. The Agent had told him the Iudex wished to speak to him. Recalling such, he placed his hands upon his chin. What could the Chief Justice of Fontaine possibly wish to speak to him about? If this were negotiative affairs, he was not the hyena for such whatsoever.


Walking towards the Palais Mermonia, a sudden wave of unease flowed through him. He did not know why, but he felt like any second now, it was going to rain. Placing his hand over his head just in case, preparedness had been shot in the foot with a crossbow.


Spotting the Iudex outside the office with a pained look on his face, the chimera's heart skipped two beats. Was something troubling him? The Chief Justice of Fontaine always had a serious and stern expression on his face. Something wasn't right here, for certain. Eyes soon on him, the hyena placed his hands out in front of him.


Folding his middle, ring and index finger downward, the soldier thumb and index finger had been sticking upward. Pressing his knuckles upon his chin, a concerned look soon appeared on the hyena's face. What's wrong signed for the singular person remaining in the population to see, the Iudex's fingers had soon been upon his brow.


"Monsieur Siorc, apologies for my current disposition. The meeting that has been arranged will be postponed," the Iudex said, trying to keep it together. "The Melusines have been sucked into the black cubes. When such incident is resolved, negotiations will continue."


Hearing such, a chill dropped down the chimera's spine. Had all the Melusines been spirited away into the black cubes? If such were the case, he needed to save them, for sure. He recalled hearing a rumor that the Melusines had been like the Chief Justice of Fontaine's daughters. Placing his hands out in front of him, the soldier signed he would help for absolutely no one to see.


"Excuse me for a moment," the Iudex said. As he said such, he stepped back towards the Palais Mermonia.


Silence looping on repeat for minutes on end, the chimera could not help but wonder. What was the Iudex going to grab? Doors soon opening once more, a scythe had been handed off to him. Pitch black dress given to him as well, the chimera tilted his head. What was this all about?


"You will need to swipe the scythe backwards to free the souls trapped within the cubes," the Iudex explained.


Hearing such, the soldier jumped three steps back. He had to do what now? Was this what people had been afraid of? Unfolding the dress, the chimera grit his teeth. Why was this dress so low cut by the chest area? There was no way he was wearing this. Folding it back up, he attempted to return to sender.


No such return ever came, however. Pained look remaining on the Iudex's face, the chimera surrendered himself. If this is how he had to dress to save the Melusines, then so it shall be. Stepping towards the entrance, he had soon been told to change in one of the vacant offices.


Stepping into the empty office towards the western side of the building, the chimera let out a sigh. Was wearing this outfit really necessary? Surely, his Fatui uniform would be fine. Shrugging, the solider undid the buttons on his uniform. Pants taken off, as well, the pitch black dress with a lethal skirt had been upon his short body. Undershirts covering his hideous scar, the hyena puffed a sigh of relief. He was grateful for the layers right now for sure.


Finding a hidden back pocket, the soldier rummaged through it, for a moment. Skull shaped hairpins and earrings accompanied by rubber bands, the chimera swapped the jewelry and accessories out with one another. Pulling his hair up into twintails, he stared at his reflection in front of him. Barely recognizable version of himself gazing back at him, he let out a sigh. Was this over the top outfit really necessary?


Removing himself from the Palais, the chimera headed off towards the eastern city exit. Silence continuing to loop on repeat, a heavy wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Maybe the entire city's population had already been sucked into these black cubes. He would need to free them from their prison as well, guaranteed.


Not a single Melusine out and about anywhere, the chimera could feel the storm clouds coming. Fontaine without Melusines just didn't feel right. He needed to get them back, at all costs. Moving back towards the city's exit, the glass box soon awaited him once more.


Reaching the city's outskirts after about five minutes, the chimera steeled himself. Were the bird bounty hunters around? If they had been, he knew he would be target practice in no time flat. Keeping his ears open, the soldier dashed off towards the grass fields.


As the chimera moved himself towards the Air Roger, the hyena looked upwards towards the sky. Not hearing any warfare up above, the hyena blinked. Could the hawk and falcon bounty hunters be away, at the moment? If such were the case, it was a relief to be had, for sure.


Veering off towards the east, the chimera kept his eyes open. Any moment now, and he would be in the presence of the automatically powered aircraft. Monsters nowhere to be seen, and no one else around whatsoever, the hyena could feel a wave of relief. Perhaps, just maybe, this would go as planned.


Air Roger spotted after about ten minutes of walking, the chimera sped up his walking speed. Engine glowing a dark purple, the chimera let out a sigh. He needed the power of Pneumaousia at a time like this? What an awful time for such to be the case. Turning back around, the early adult searched the area for energy cubes, for a moment.


Finding a yellow block in the corner, the soldier grabbed a hold of it. Running back towards the Airtime Roger, the chimera swung the scythe forward. Vessel ascending upwards towards the sky, the soldier stood still. Vehicle hovering off towards the east, the chimera crossed his arms around his waist. It was time for Siorc's Delivery Service, he supposed.


As the Airtime Roger cruised off towards the east, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Spotting a large black cube, the early adult's knees buckled. Just how big was this thing? How many people, chimeras and melusines had it already swallowed up? It had to have been countless.


Beach coming up close, the soldier couldn't help but wonder. Who was the client he had to deliver the devil's liquid to? But, the chimera quickly shook his head. It hardly mattered who it was for. The identity of the client was hardly his business. Ride moving forward, Doom loomed over him.


Airtime Roger stopping in its tracks, the chimera tilted his head. Why had the Airtime Roger stopped moving? Air plopped onto the top of his head, the hyena clicked his tongue. Where had these Anemo Slimes come from? How annoying. Gust of air coming from behind him, the hyena deployed his windglider.


Multiple slimes swirling around in a circle, the soldier placed the scythe out in front of him. If defeating the obstacles was the only way to continue forward, it was time for his flower friends to get some rare action. Turning his attention towards the gelatinous creatures, the hyena attempted to summon his Windwheel Aster friend.


But, such moment never came. Windwheel Aster friend not coming out, the hyena could feel a change to his elemental energy. Attempting to toss them out once more, nothing happened. Attempting three more times, the hyena was flowerless. Nothing doing, the chimera placed his hands on the side of his head. Why was this happening now, of all times? Had his Vision been losing its powers?


Holding the scythe once more, the soldier swore he could see his vision glowing pitch black, for a moment. Large, green skull coming to his side tossing down explosive thorny rosebuds, the hyena's eyes opened wide as multiple slimes had been blown to smithereens. What was going on here?


Multiple Slimes soon directly in front of him, the early adult let out a scream as he swung his scythe forward. Monsters popping like a deflated balloon, the chimera swore he could feel his energy begin to deplete with every swipe forward. Enemies defeated with six additional strikes, the hyena let out a huff. Was it just him, or did it feel like some of his blood had been drawn by an invisible needle?


Obstacles cleared away, the Airtime Roger had begun to move once more. Placing himself into a sitting position, the chimera gazed at the scythe for a moment. Could there have been a Delusion embedded inside it? Seeing nothing of the sort, the chimera sheathed the object from behind him. There was nothing of note. Could the sinister orb be hidden sight?


Vehicle getting ready to land, the chimera prepared himself for the turbulence ready to make its rounds. Vessel descending downward at breakneck speed, the hyena held onto his nonexistent hat. Reaching the ground, a surprising client soon awaited him beside the ocean.


Spotting Bain in the corner waiting with her arms crossed, the chimera blinked. The sea lion sister had been the client who wanted a crate of wine? How very disappointing. Weren't chimera incapable of drinking the devil's liquid? But, the hyena threw such assumption away. Just because such had been true for him, did not it had been the same way for others. Throwing his judgement away, the crate had been within his hands. Box changing hands, a weight had been off his shoulders, in an instant.


"Thank you for this," Bain said in a tired voice. "Sorry, it must be strange to have to hand me of all people a crate of alcohol. We're disaster proofing."


Bain claiming she had been disaster proofing, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. How would wine help in a time of crisis? Keeping his mouth shut, the early adult pressed a button on the Airtime Roger. Vehicle heading back towards the direction he came, the chimera prepared himself for the next destination.


Figuring it was best to deal with the rogue robots next, the chimera turned his heelless shoes off towards the northern direction. West Slopes skipped over and ignored, the soldier continued northward. Edge of the Morte Region soon reached after about twenty minutes of running, a boat soon awaited the soldier at the end of the road.


Rowing with a fury, Marcotte Station had been reached after about fifteen minutes of rowing. Knowing he had to make haste, the hyena ran off towards the northeast as fast as his currently human legs could carry him. Dashing through the mountains, the chimera soon curved off towards the east.


Running past the gear monster's lair, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could there have been other clues lying around here about the abyssal gazelles wrongdoings? But, the early adult did not tempt fate. If he were to delve any deeper, Pandora's Box would be opened.


Continuing to head north, the soldier could not help but ponder. The abyssal gazelles, just who were they really? What were they really after? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. Why was he letting himself think about them? They could be listening to his thoughts right about now.


Tower coming in close, the hyena sped up his running speed a smidgeon. Reaching the abandoned area at breakneck speed, the chimera huffed and puffed. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed. Stepping off towards the stairs the soldier placed the scythe into his right hand.


Rogue machines crawling around like spiders, the soldier held the scythe upward. First of many creatures turning around, the early adult swiped from behind. Creature sparking up like a Hydro and Electro, the inorganic creature leaped upward. Balls of static rode the stale air.


Jumping towards the left, the chimera swung forward once more. Enemy sparking up aplenty, the final strike had been delivered to the opposing force. Scythe glowing red for a moment, a wave of tiredness flowed through the chimera. Weapon continuing to glow, he could feel his vitality deplete further. This scythe, what was it doing to him?


Army of creepy crawly robots coming for him from every which way, the chimera kept the momentum going. Soulless objects departing from the world one after another, the hyena placed his hand on his chest. Heart beating slower in his chest, a puzzle piece threw itself onto the floor. What was going on here? Everything was flipping, turning, reversing.


Skull thorn creature aimed at the mechanical insects upon the ceiling, metallic pieces scattered themselves onto the floor one after another. Scooping the debris up, they had soon been tossed aside into a small wooden container. If he had left the debris out in the open, he would face the wrath of the researchers guaranteed.


Scythe doing all the dirty work upon the second floor, a momentary feeling of weakness overtook the hyena. But, he snapped himself out of it. There was still monsters to defeat. He needed to get rid of this moment of weakness right now. Shaking it off, the mechanical beings had soon been slain.


Stairwell in front of him, the hyena had been running. Out of breath almost immediately, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. Why had it been so difficult to ascend the staircase? Slapping his cheeks, the fights soon continued for minutes on end. Final creature becoming nothing but scrap metal, the soldier leaped towards the window. Windglider deployed behind him, the ground and him soon met.


Knowing his next order of business was to head to Elynas, the chimera cracked his knuckles. It was time to break the trapped Melusines free from their cube prison. Dashing off towards the direction he came, the early adult could feel sweat drip down his neck for minutes on end.


Huffing and puffing up a storm as the Central Laboratory Ruins had been passed through, the hyena's eyes had become momentary jelly. Steadying himself, the early adult attempted to keep going. It was too early now to throw in the towel. Such could not happen.


But, as the hyena kept moving forward, the huffs of breath had only gotten weaker. Halting his movement for a moment, the chimera blinked. Something didn't feel quite right. But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was nothing wrong here. He had to keep moving.


Elynas reached after about an hour of walking, the big black cube stood in front of him. But, such had been over in a matter of moments. Feeling an overwhelming force drag him forward, the early adult surrendered himself to the unknown. Blinding light soon overtaking him, the soldier closed his eyes.


Opening his eyes once more, a strange world awaited him. Finding himself in a pitch black outdoor corridor and an even darker sky with statues galore, the hyena flinched. Why did these monuments look like the Melusines from Merusea Village and around the Court of Fontaine? But, he had soon seen something worse up afar.


Brume and Eclater encased into black stone at the end of the cubic world, as well, the hyena's knees buckled. Had the entire population of Merusea Village been stuck in this space? If such were the case, he had to save everyone right away. Walking off towards the first statue, he placed his hands upon it, for a moment.


Not feeling a singular stony texture, the chimera blinked. The Melusines, had they not been encased in stone at all? He could hardly wrap his head around all this. Scythe in his hands, the chimera recalled what the Iudex said to him. Turning himself towards his backside, the backwards swipes took the stage.


Soul dropping back into the first Melusine's body, the early adult stared at the scythe seated in his hands. What was this weapon doing? Weren't scythes supposed to remove souls from the body? How could the opposite be able to occur? But, he parked such thoughts, for the moment. There was no time to think. There were Melusines and two pranksters to save.


Multiple backwards swipes removing the Melusines from their suspended states, a wave of dizziness flowed through the chimera. Was it just him, or did it feel like he had just donated blood to the Church of Favonius? Shaking his head rapidly, the reversal strikes continued. Souls returning themselves to their bodies, the journey continued.


Tens of Melusines thanking him one after another for breaking them free, the soldier weakly stuck his right thumb upward. Shaking like a leaf, he had soon begun to wobble. This scythe, was it a vampire, or something? He did not know why, but he could feel even more blood drained out of him with every single slash administered. How many more seconds would he last? His moments were numbered.


But, the hyena knew he could not falter. Every single sea denizen of the underwater village freed except for the sea lion prankster duo, the chimera dragged himself off towards the end of the corridor. Brothers frozen with shocked expressions, his mind had begun to wander. What happened to them before the disaster occurred to be stuck with such a face?


Final backwards swipe taking the stage, multiple other Melusines had sent their gratitude his way. Sea denizens one after another leaving the cubical world of doom, the final two pieces of the puzzle dropped into place. But, something of immediate concern played out before the chimera's eyes. Sea lion prankster duo's faces blue, doom soon loomed over him.


"Water," Brume choked out. "Oh, Archons, air is painful.


"Bro, I caaaaan't breeeeeeeathe," Eclater choked out, coughing. "Hoooow diiiid weee-ee-ee ee-eeeeend uuu---up he--ere?" He let out an intense cough as he asked such.


Sea lion duo disappearing into thin air, the hyena flinched. What just happened, where did everyone go? Cubic world collapsing around him, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. He had been back in the exact same spot as before? Cube no longer anywhere to be seen, the chimera attempted to turn his heelless shoes back towards the opposite direction.


Such action never came into fruition. Body feeling heavier than a dumbbell, the early adult's body swayed downward. No energy remaining within him, his eyes closed tight. Where had all his energy gone? How strange. He could hardly move. Head landing upon the grass beneath him, the chimera could feel his consciousness slipping away. World of black overtaking him, one final question slipped itself out.


Huh?


***


Coming to sometime later, a face he did not think he would see appeared in his tired line of vision. Lonan's head within eyeshot, a wave of confusion flowed through him. What was he doing here? Had he been sent here to deal with the cubes? Hand soon on his back, he threw such thought away. Maybe that wasn't the case.


"Rab sent me to check on you," Lonan said at a medium volume. "Can you stand?"


Attempting to do so, no energy had come to him. Remaining seated upon the ground, Lonan's Talons had soon been upon his shoulder. Claws locked in the chimera flinched. Did he have to press down so hard? Hawks were hunting birds indeed. But, another set of words threw him out of his thoughts, in an instant.


"Seems like you can't. Kay then, I'll fly you to the airtime roger, and then take you to my place," Lonan said in a quiet voice. "Hang on, black fish steak bro."


Lonan carrying him upward towards the sky, the early adult blinked. How could the bird man carry him so easily? Wasn't he heavy? There was no way he would be able to bring all the way to the Airtime Roger. Words bubbling onto his tongue, they soon exploded like a Fonta bottle that had been shook before opening it.


"Aren't I heavy sir?" the hyena accidentally asked.


"Not, really, bro," Lonan responded. "If I wanted to, I could fly you all the way back to my folks place."


Bird man explaining he had poor vision at night, the early adult blinked. If such were the case, why was he risking all this for him? But, his thoughts melted as his energy died once more. Airtime Roger reached after about forty minutes of slow flying, the chimera had been placed into a laying position. He could feel himself blink out of existence once more. But one final thought came with him to the land of the unconscious.


Was he truly not heavy?


***


"I don't know. This mission is a little too intense. I


Can't do this. I
Absolutely, positively cannot do this alone. But, there is
Nothing I can say.
There is no way I can ask for help. I


Don't think I am allowed.
Obviously, Her Majesty is watching me, And


There is no way I can ask for
Help. I have to do this alone.
I have to do this by myself.
So, I mustn't falter.


All and all, it is
Likely going to these cubes and
Observing them from the inside will be my only duty for awhile.
Nothing else. Not a single thing.
Everything will be the same from here on out,


But. I truly do not want this.
Ultimately, though it is not up
To me. I am not allowed to decide anything regarding my orders.


I already know that.


Cannot ask anything, complaints
Are forbidden, desires are
Not allowed.
That's how it's always been


And how it'll always be.
So, I have to press on alone. I
Know that.


For now, I suppose, I will limit the use
Of my scythe.
Right. That should do it.


How much will I be able to limit my usage?
Everything is rather unclear. But,
Looks like not much.
Perhaps it will all go better today. Who knows?"


Coming to somewhere unknown to him, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Where was he? But, he had soon heard a lot of racket in the another room. Reaching for his glasses, the chimera removed himself from the bed. Guiding himself towards the noise, a scene played out in front of him.


Lonan placing tape over a large cardboard box, the early adult had come to a realization. Right, Lonan had said he was taking him to his family's place. Turning his head towards the right and left, he placed his finger on his chin. Had he been here before? He couldn't help but feel this had not been the first time he had set foot in here. Lonan turning towards him, the chimera gave eye contact.


"Morning, black fish steak bro," Lonan greeted. "Don't mind the noise. I'm just packin'. Moving to Petrichor pretty soon."


Hearing such, the soldier blinked. Lonan was moving? He sees now. He understands, he supposed. He was leaving the nest. But, the chimera threw such thought in the garbage. Perhaps that had been a little too on the nose. He had been a hawk chimera. Maybe it was better to leave the bird pins to die.


"Oh, right, bro, before I forget," Lonan said in between taping sessions. "The folks outside all asked for the same thing. They want you to go deal with those black cubes eating everyone up." Slapping tape over another box, he soon continued. "Heard they're mostly in the northeastern seabed. I dunno who summoned these boxes. But, whoever did isn't cool."


Another day of reverse reaper action upon him, the early adult let out a sigh. Why did all the citizens of Fleuve Cendre collectively have the same order for him? How annoying. But, he knew his orders were absolute, no matter who were to give them to him. Preparing himself, he exited the bird's nest.


Same generic nobody operating the Aquabus today, eyes were on him like glue. Woman demanding more Mora than a measly one thousand, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the sky. Who did she think she was charging people for a ride that was usually free? She would get nothing if she kept demanding.


Reaching the Poisson tunnel after about half an hour, the hyena jumped off the vehicle. Rich lady demanding Mora once again, the early adult tossed a thousand mora again like a ninja star. Whatever a ninja was. The hyena had been none the wiser to whatever such a thing was.


Dropping down towards the ground at lightning speed, a wave of fear flowed through the chimera. He knew, at any given moment as soon as he reached the bottom of the ocean, the undersea penguins would attack him, like usual. Knowing he would have to avoid them at all costs, steeled himself.


Fat blubbery suit soon absorbing him, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Feeling a spark, his mind and the diving suit synched up with one another. Flopping towards the ocean bed, the suit automatically thrusted him downward. But, immediately upon reaching here, a wasteland awaited him.


Absolutely nothing swimming around at all, the ocean was nothing. Fish all gone, the early adult almost proceeded to head back towards the opposite direction. What happened here? Where had all the sea life gone? Had a gigantic whale devoured it all? Something wasn't right.


Spotting a large black cube off towards the northeastern side, the hyena had his diving suit push him through. Elton Trench ready to be left behind, a wave of nervousness flowed through him. All the sea life had been gone. How was this possible? Was he dreaming right now?


Vines slapping on his face with full force, the chimera flinched. He was most certainly awake right now. Cube of darkness approaching ever so slowly, he observed the area around him. The undersea gazelles had been nowhere to be seen, either. What was going on here?


Intense and overwhelming energy engulfing him, the chimera gulped. He did not know why, but he could sense a chaotic energy like no other around the block of doom. Taking a deep breath, he placed his gloved hand upon the partially solid object. Blinding light engulfing him, his eyes had been shut once more.


Finding himself in a pitch black outdoor corridor once more. But something had been off, as expected. Diving suit nowhere to be seen and black reaper dress, the soldier lowered himself onto the ground. The fat blubber, where had it gone? He was done for if it were missing, for sure.


Sea creatures and a multitude of people stuck in a frozen state, the hyena's heart leapt out of his chest. The fish had been dragged down into this mess, too? Who could do such a thing? These poor creatures had no idea what had happened to them. Scythe soon deployed, the first backwards swipe took the stage.


Fish freed from their frozen prison, the hyena could feel the blood leave his head. But, the chimera attempted to hold on. It was far too early to break now. He had to keep going, no matter what. Moving towards the left, the sight of multiple citizens stuck in place threw him for two loops.


Reverse swipes overtaking him, the early adult swore he could see souls reentering the body from up above. Generic rich nobodies gazing in bewilderment as they vanished from the scene, the chimera pressed on. Ocean of the same face locked in place playing their frozen swan song, he was ready to end it.


Next set of generic nobodies freed from their prison, the early adult flinched. This scythe, why did it feel like it was making a meal out of his blood every time he used it? But, he soon shook his head. That was impossible. There had been no blood shed for such to be the case.


Army of nobodies souls all returned, the reverse let out a huff. Was it just him, or had it been getting harder and harder to keep going in this large space? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. He couldn't let such get to him. He had a job to do. But, in a matter of moments, the worst possible duo stood before him.


Vidame and Domini trapped in a state of frozen movement, the soldier clutched his sickle of doom. If he were to save these two, they would not address him with any sort of kindness guaranteed. But, he knew he could not leave them in this space to rot. That would be quite horrible of him. Turning towards his backside, the scythe was ready.


Undersea penguin duo moving one again, the cubic world around him disintegrated into nothing once more. Feeling his energy deplete by the second, his head plopped across the ocean bed. Shooting his eyes back open, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. He was back where he came already, diving suit included? But, he had soon been met with violent screams.


"You think this makes us even just because you saved us, don't you Ritchie Rich?" Vidame asked in an annoyed tone. "Well, it doesn't! You can forget about receiving any thanks from us!"


"Yeah, Ritchie Rich! We owe you nothing! Don't expect us to be grateful towards you!" Domini shouted, but he soon turned his head off towards the opposite direction, rubbing his hands through his hair. "This ain't right! Vidame, I know you always are like spit on the rich, but he didn't leave us to die in there!"


"Okay, so what, so he saved us from that dimensional corruption, big deal, Domini!" Vidame exclaimed. She then pointed her flipper at Ritchie Rich. "Fuggedabbout a thank you. I won't give you one!"


"Vidame, when did I say I was gonna thank this rich loser? No way am I ever saying that to him!" Domini shouted, teeth out. But, he soon putting him away. "I feel like we, like at least owe him our five seconds of assistance, at least!"


"Me help Ritchie Rich?! Did your brain get left behind in that cube?!" Vidame asked Domini, but she soon gave up the act. "Fine, whatever. I'll help him. But, only because that toxic frog freak is trapped in one, too." She then turned towards Ritchie Rich. "You hear that, Ritchie Rich, we're calling a truce for today! But you dare think for a second in your stupid brainless head that it'll last forever!"


Vidame mentioning the frog and alligator duo had been trapped in these black cube as well, a wave of shock had flown through him. Just how widespread had this phenomenon become? He did not know, but it had to have been far bigger than he could ever imagine.


Undersea penguins swimming faster than he could keep up with, the soldier pressed the turbo button upon his diving suit. Why were they moving so fast? Was even being three meters near him a crime to them? Pushing back through the Salacia Plains, his head pulsed, for a moment.


Feeling a moment of weakness, the chimera's face grew heavy. Why did it feel like he had donated another portion of his blood to the Church of Favonius? But, the hyena forced himself to press on. That was impossible. There was no way he had lost any of such vital. There had been no wounds anywhere to speak of.


Cube reached after about twenty minutes of automatic movement, Vidame and Domini entered before him. Closing his eyes for a moment, the hyena prepared for the next shift. Finding himself in cube world once more, he gazed downward. Diving suit gone once more, his legs shook. Where did it go this time? Holding his scythe in his left hand, he swore he could see Vidame glare daggers at his weapon.


"If Ritchie Rich is using a scythe, then so can I!" Vidame shouted. As she said such, her scythe had been out in front of her.


"Hmph! This rich loser is such a showoff!" Domini shouted. As he said such, his chain whip had soon been connected to a flailed mace. "My flail is ready!"


Observing the cube around him, a wave of shock flowed through the soldier. Almost half of the entire population of Fontaine trapped within the cube, Malika and Baron included, a heavy look of surprise engulfed the hundreds of faces. Zinn and Peltro looking astonished as well in their frozen faces, the chimera's scythe was ready. But, the tides had soon turned.


Domini drawing a mustache upon Peltro's face, and Vidame doing so upon Zinn's, the party of two chuckled their gills out. Continuing to laugh at their terrible attempt at a joke, the soldier let out a sigh. These two were just bullies to everyone, weren't they? Scythe moved towards his backside, the reverse reaper session was ready.


Generic nobodies released from their frozen state, the population of cubeworld had begun to dwindle. Feeling his vitality drain, the chimera let out a huff. Why had it been taking so much effort to breathe? Slapping his chest, the hyena prepared himself for the second round.


Rest of the nobodies souls returned with the assistance of the undersea penguin duo, the chimera blinked. Extreme wave of fatigue flowing through him he gazed downward. Could there have been an open wound somewhere upon him? But nothing of such existed. Shaking his head, he proceeded to ready himself for round three.


Malika and Baron soon released from their suspended movement prison, the chimera dropped down onto his knees. How much more of this would he have to do? His energy was dead, gone, erased. But, he stood back up again. It wasn't over. Two people remained.


Frog and alligator chimeras souls reverse reaped, the two had argued for minutes on end, the chimera plugged his ears. Couldn't these two, for once, not fight about something? Everyone soon released from cubeworld, he closed his eyes? Was it finally over? But, he had soon been told the worst possible news.


Undersea penguin duo informing him there was one more in the Liffey region, the ocean spun around him. There was still one more? He did not know how much more he could take of this today. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. He had to break the people out of this dimensional corruption. Whatever that was, anyway. He had no idea. Surely, the penguin duo had made that up to sound like they knew what they were talking about.


Pitch black cube located beside the prison, the soldier hopped in. Entire prison population, Grand Duke and undersea otters included, the early adult's heart skipped more than two beats. The people of the Fortress were dragged down into this as well? How could this have happened? They had been so far cut off from the rest of the world. Something wasn't adding up. It was almost as if, in the world beyond Teyvat, such events occurring had been decided in advanced by some sort of god. But, the chimera was none the wiser to such fact being the case.


Feeling a strong force of intense energy, the chimera's fingers twitched as he held the scythe tight. What was with this heavy foreboding sense of doom? He swore he could see the Inazuman word for menacing in the air colored purple. But, he snapped himself out of it. What did he know? He couldn't read such language.


Scythe swiped in reverse multiple times in quick succession, not a single person had been freed from their prison of frozenness. Seeing such, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Channeling all the energy that remained, his scythe burned a bright red, for a moment. Everyone soon freed, cubeworld died a dishonorable death. But, as it broke, an intense wave of dizziness soon devoured him.


Head drooping, the soldier swore he could hear the penguin duo yelling at the top of their gills. But, such had soon been cut out. Sound dulling around him, and vision becoming black, everything was silent, gone, removed. Consciousness readying to slip away, one final question threw itself out into the playing field.


What is this scythe doing to him?


***


Coming to sometime later, a wave of panic flowed through the soldier at the sight before him. Finding himself in the prison infirmary, tears streamed down his face. Why was he here again? Had he been arrested? If he was going to be behind bars, his life was over, for sure. Melusine head nurse running towards him, he had been put back into a lying position


"I know you're scared, but you need to calm down," the Melusine nurse said in a quiet tone. "That scythe of yours has stolen quite a lot of your blood. If Zach and Monique hadn't found you when they did, I don't know what would have happened to you."


Hearing such, the early adult could feel himself fade out once more.


The scythe did what now?


***


"I am getting dangerous reading about about
The lake underneath the Weeping Willow Tree and um, uh


I think we really
Should do something about this.


Could, um, it be those gazelles again?
Looks like it is.
Everything they um, do is
Absolutely incomprehensible to me. Um, uh, I
Really don't understand them.


They have no moral compass.
Oh, um, I don't


Mean to say they are
Evil, but I


Now am warming up to the word a little. Um, uh,
Or maybe not?
Well, to be honest,


That word should not be used here.
Huh, well,
Even so, they don't have any um, uh, standards,
You know?


Well, of course they don't
All these two seem to want is
Nothing but chaos,
Though, if I were


To mention that to
Oluchi, she'd call me


Krazy, yes, with a k, and
Insist I'm adopted,
Like usual.
Look, um, Oluchi I'm not adopted.


That bit she always does, she finds it
Hilarious, but I find it rather
Egregious and tiresome, but um,
Maybe speaking out is a waste of time. Um? Anyway, time for the next rescue."


Finding himself in Lonan's home once again, a wave of confusion loomed over the soldier. Wasn't he in the Fortress of Meropide earlier? But, the chimera shook his head. Perhaps that had just been a dream. Feeling a heavy wave of fatigue flow through him, the hyena could hear frantic footsteps come his way.


"Black fish steak bro! We have to go to the Weeping Willow of the Lake right now!" Lonan exclaimed in a frantic tone. "Damla and Firat are in danger!"


"But, uh, um, if you're not feeling well, we'll do it on our own," Rabiu said, two index fingers touching one another. "Don't push yourself."


Raising himself up from the bed, the hyena tossed on the black dress. Sit around in bed while Rabiu and Lonan did all the work? Absolutely not, he would do no such thing. Using fatigue as an excuse was not an option. He was working, no matter what. His tiredness could suck an egg. Slapping his cheeks, the party of three prepared for takeoff.


Aquabus taken, and money solicited, the party of three ran through Marcotte Station as if their lives depended on it. Dashing through the Foggy Forest, a familiar pitch black hood could be seen from the backside. Seeing such, everyone hurried their footsteps once more.


Darting off towards the Weeping Willow of the Woods, the soldier swore he could see the abyssal gazelles drop something into the undersea bed in the corner. Bearing witness to such event, the hyena shook his head. Of course they had been the ones behind this incident, too. When had they ever not been behind something going on in Fontaine at this point?


"Um, Lonan, get the kamera ready," Rabiu said, voice shaking. "They're about to make another one."


"On it, boss!" Lonan exclaimed. As he said such, a kamera flashed brightly.


Abyssal gazelles jumping down towards the lake, Rabiu and Lonan had soon followed soon after. Diving equipment soon upon him, the hyena's mind had soon been synched with his suit once more. Dropping down towards the world underneath the lake, something atrocious awaited him.


Abyssal gazelles swimming as fast as a shark chasing after its prey, Rabiu and Lonan attempted with all their might to corner the enemy. Seeing such test of speed playing out in front of him, the hyena pressed the turbo button. These two, they weren't getting away. Accelerating at maximum speed, the gap prepared itself to close.


Rabiu placing his hand out in front of him, magical stone spells had been cast from afar. Abyssal gazelles stopped in their tracks like it was nothing, the early adult's jaw dropped open. The power of Geomancy was amazing. Sharp, jagged rocks locking them in place, everyone sped up toward the locked enemies.


"You two have really done it this time," Lonan said in a low pitched tone. "Imprisoning nearly the entire population of Fontaine in corrupted abyss cubes? What do you two want? Messing with people's lives and putting them in danger is not cool."


"We're doing Fontaine a favor by speeding up the prophecy!" Izzet exclaimed.


"He should be thanking us for our service!" Kelebek shouted.


Kelebek and Izzet talking about some prophecy, the early adult scratched his ears. Was he hearing this correctly? What prophecy were they even talking about? But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. He supposed he knew far too little about such. What was Fontaine's prophecy anyway?


"Go on," Lonan responded in a chilly tone.


"Fontaine belongs to the abyss!" Izzet shouted. "We're taking back what's ours!" But, such point had been met with immediate backlash.


"Rab," Lonan said to Rabiu. "Sick 'em."


"Um, uh, sorry for this," Rabiu said, voice shaking. As he said such, they had been stonehenged in every possible degree.


Rabiu keeping the attacks going, the early adult had his diving suit thrust six paces backwards. He had ever seen the researcher gazelle this ready before. Had something set him off? He did not know why, but he couldn't help but feel proud of him, at this moment in time. But, the hooded strangers soon forced in their last laugh.


"Just he waits!" Kelebek shouted. "Soon, you will be in the grand finale!" As one said such, one freed oneself from the stone prison.


Abyssal gazelles throwing themselves into a portal, the soldier rolled his eyes to the lake ceiling. The grand finale? Did these two ever give up at all? Heading off towards the possible final black cube, the chimera placed his hands upon the partially solid object in front of him. Rabiu and Lonan doing the same, everyone was in.


Spotting Damla and Firat floating around in the cubeworld lifeless, the early adult could feel alarm bells ring in his head. What was going on here? Something wasn't right about this. Just what did the abyssal gazelles do to them? Whatever it was, it had been far worse than anything else they had done in the other cubes.


"Black fish steak bro, you don't have to worry about that blood debt anymore," Lonan said in a serious tone. As he said such, he removed a scythe from his backside. "The Iudex let us borrow some scythes, too that cancel the effect out."


"So, you, um, uh, will be fine this time to use yours," Rabiu tacked on to Lonan's words.


Placing his scythe out in front of him, the soldier took a long deep breath. Would that truly be the case? The chimera did not know. It had to have been too good to be true, for sure. Turning himself towards his backside, the first swipe had been done in reverse. Rabiu and Lonan joining in, as well, round two was ready.


Party of three continuing to swing in unison with one another, the hyena swore he could see them move a little further. Everyone letting out a shout, the reverse swipes continued. Energy only getting stronger as the seconds unraveled, one final round took over everything.


Undersea gazelles eyes opening once more, an intense look of rage entered the duo's faces. Seeing such, a sharp chill dropped down the chimera's spine. Why did they look as though they didn't want to be awakened? Had they made a mistake doing this? He felt like there could have been.


"Why do you keep trying to save us?!" Damla shouted at the top of cos gills. "Could you stop doing this already? You could have let that be the end for us like we wanted!"


"We're asking you this one last time," Firat said in a pleading tone. "Please let us go. We don't want to be apart of this planet anymore. Why can't you all understand that?"


"If you really mean that, then why did you ask us for help the other day?" Lonan asked. But, an immediate response had been fired his way.


"Ignore our half asleep ramblings," Damla responded immediately. "Neither us meant it."


"Um, uh, sorry we can't ignore this," Rabiu said in a sharp, but nervous tone. "And, Lonan and I will do everything we can to help you." But, his words had gone unheard as their eyes wandered off towards Siorc.


"Oh. It's you again," Firat said, sighing. "Young man, sorry for showing you our past. We didn't mean to have you see all that."


Apology coming his way, the hyena blinked. What in the world was Firat talking about? When had se shown him ser past. He had no recollection of that ever occurring at any given point. Memory not flowing back to him, he shrugged. He supposed he accepted their apology. Whatever it was meant for.


"If our cousins want to get rid of us, then so be it," Damla replied, shrugging. "Now, could you all please go away? Let us sleep forever."


Everyone nodding, the party of three returned to the surface world. Lonan saying it was time to take the evidence back to the Iudex, the soldier stared off into space. Returning to the Palais Mermonia with the kamera of the day's crimes, words had come the party of two's way to keep investigating. But, words had been sent his way, as well.


Iudex apologizing for the pressure he had put on him, the early adult shook his head. He was ordered to investigate the cubes. No apology was necessary. Scythe returned to him, and black dress given back, as well, his winter coat had absorbed him once more. Stepping away from Palais Mermonia, Rabiu soon departed. But, one final request had soon come his way.


"Siorc?" Lonan asked. "I have one more request. Could you help me pack?"


Inquiry coming his way, the hyena scratched the side of his head. Did Lonan just call him by his name without adorning him with some sort of moniker? How strange. Was Fontaine about to freeze over? But, he threw such thought away. That meant nothing, in the long run. He was just trying to get his attention. Giving him a nod, they had soon returned to Fleuve Cendre. Multiple boxes soon packed with teamwork, another round of shocks had come his way.


"I'm going to tell Gwendolyn I'm ending our fake relationship," Lonan said.


Hearing such, the chimera blinked. He did not know why, but that felt like it should have been for the best. Tugging on his sleeve, eyes were soon on him. Placing his hands out in front of him, the soldier asked where Gwendolyn was with his fingers for only two people to see. But, a confused looked decorated his face.


"Gwen? She's in the East Slopes," Lonan responded to his wordless communication. "Something up?"


"I'll go with you to break it off with her, sir," the hyena replied, voice barely audible. But, there had been a momentary pause. Had what he said been hard to process? He supposed such was probably the case.


"Really?" Lonan asked. "Alright, then, bro."


Reaching the East Slopes in the Morte region after about an hour of running, the target of the fake breakup had been zeroed in upon. Gwendolyn up in a tree dropping down Bulle fruit, falcon wings out, Lonan soon cupped his hands around his mouth, taking a deep breath, the shouts threw themselves out into the ring.


"Gwendolyn, I have something to say!" Lonan shouted. Fruit dropping onto the ground with a splatter, a shout had been returned in tandem.


"Lonan, can't it wait? I'm busy!" Gwendolyn shouted back.


"I'm ending our fake relationship!" Lonan shouted back louder. But, such had been met with cheers.


"Finally," Gwendolyn responded with a sigh of relief. "About time. I was getting tired of you." But, as if a bomb exploded, the volume soon raised.


"You know what, Gwendolyn? I try to be chill with you, but quite frankly, I've had enough of you," Lonan said, voice not wavering. "The entire time we were pretending to be a couple, all you ever did was show your nasty side to me. Kinda tired of that. Warps with my vibe, you know?"


"Well, you just annoyed me!" Gwendolyn retaliated. "Alright?"


"You do you," Lonan responded, back turned. "But, I'm done with your elbowing." But something had soon interrupted the flow.


"Gwennol, come inside already!" Gwendolyn's father shouted. But, defiance had soon come the voice's way.


"It's Gwendolyn!" Gwendolyn shouted.


Watching as Lonan stood up for himself, the hyena folded his left hand into a fist. Just how many hurtful things had Gwendolyn said to Lonan? Such was inexcusable? He was annoying? Hardly. She was wrong for saying such a thing. Enough was enough of this nonsense. She had elbowed herself off the edge.


"Hurting people just because you find them 'annoying' is quite pitiful of you," Siorc said, voice low. "Invest your frustration into a diary, rather than taking it out on someone else. Learn to keep your painful thoughts to yourself, or don't say anything at all." As he said such, he turned around. "Lonan, let's go."


Heading back towards the Aquabus, the soldier gazed at the bird man's belt. But, what he saw opened his eyes. Vision upon Lonan's pants, the early adult blinked. Had he earned such ornament from standing up for himself? If so, he supposed he could feel a wave of pride. Capital City of Fontaine finally upon them, he soon turned around.


"Black fish steak bro, you didn't need to go and say all that in the end," Lonan said, face dark. "But, thank you." Bowing, he soon vanished.


Ginger Fatui soon waiting for him, his dismissal had soon been granted. Permafrost North soon returned to, the early adult headed off towards the soundproof room. Pacing around for a moment, the chimera could not help but wonder. What was going to happen now? The abyssal gazelles claimed their revenge was reaching their finale.


Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, as well, the soldier closed his eyes as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep about to take him away, one final thought wrapped vines around him.


The gazelle's revenge was reaching its finale.

 

[Palamon]

38. Meropide is Drowning: The Otters Are Waking Up

"I'm a little confused


How can the
Abyssal Gazelles be this dangerous? These
Villains, they
Even have the powers to trap people in cubes.


Nothing is
Out of the question now


Could they be
Looking to plot something
Unimaginable?
Eh. They definitely


Will. I know they
Have one more thing
At their beckon and call.
They are planning something


It's going to be irreversible
Something just isn't right


Here. This is
All happening at too fast a
Pace for me
Please, let this all
End this once and for all
Nothing is truly making sense
I just want this to stop,
No. I know it will never
Go with the flow


And just take them down
Nothing is ever over
Yet, I think the end
Might be near
Over all, it's time to
Remove the issue
Everything they do


Is horrible


And I
Might burst at this rate


Something just has become too
Chaotic for me
All and all there's
Rather a lot going on
Everything is collapsing,
Dying, breaking.


It's not long before


This all leads to
Horrific and nearly
Irreversible damage
Nothing makes sense and I feel a
Knot in my stomach


For, I know this is
One last trick before they go
Nuclear, as some people say.
To be honest,
All of this
Is going to make Fontaine
Never able to recover
Especially after this most recent


Incident. The cubes imprisonment
Something tells me this is


Just the ending
Unless I am mistaken
Something isn't quite adding up.
Though I suppose I


Don't know anything
Over all,
Nothing is
Ever set in stone


For those two
Once the current problem is
Removed, a slew of new ones


Comes in.
One after another
More and more is
Piling up. It's
Looking to be even worse than I could
Ever imagine.
This has gone too far
Each and every
Large crime they commit
Yields a far worse one.


And, now I
Need to be more cautious
Do they want to


Unleash the prophecy early?
Though I hardly know what
That's all about
Everyone born in Fontaine knows, or
Rather know it can't be avoided that's
Likely the true case here.
Yes, I see now. Fontaine is


Doomed. It's all
Over, done, finished.
No. It's not over this is still a tiny ounce of hope.
Eat that negative thought and


Fork in some
Optimistic thinking.
Remove all


The doom and gloom
Has to exit me
I have to
Stop being so negative. Eh


It's impossible right now to
See the glass half full


There is nothing positive
Here. It's all blowing up
Everything is dying


Everything is breaking there's
No room for positivity
Does this look like a time for


Optimism? These two gazelles are
Forming a dangerous plan


To hasten to prophecy. There's no
Hope, nothing at all
Everything is looking bleak


There is absolutely nothing
I can think of they
Might not be planning
Everything is blurring together
Something is


About to burst
Leak, explode
Leak, explode. I'm


Overthinking. Surely, I am.
For now, I have to


Take down all that
Has to be taken down
It has to be done
So here's to


It all.
Something will explode


Nothing will be simple
Of course it
Won't be easy I


Doubt I will return in one piece
Eh maybe I'm exaggerating
For now, focus all that
Is in front of me.
Nothing is out of sight
It's all
There out in front of me
Everything. I'm
Looking right at the never
Yielding, always growing


Issues. It's all
Reaching a boiling point, all
Reaching the climax
Everything is
Very much so
Ending, all of it
Reaching the end
Something will break
It's what it is
But, I mustn't falter, or
Let them win.
Even if they're


Far stronger, I have to win
Or, Her Majesty will kill me. They will be
Righteous no more.


So, here I go
Unleash the best
Rock the scales I'll
End this now."


Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of anguish within the hyena's adult life. The pattern was a black hole sucking everything in into a sea of nothing. The collapsed star would get larger and more expansive as the late evening continued onward. The night before him was no different, as well.


Before him had been long field of starflowers. The crop of plants had been grey, blue and purple star shaped flowers glowing as if they belonged to the nighttime sky. Seeing such flowers, a wave of bewilderment ate the hyena alive. Where in the dream world was he? He had never seen them before in the mortal, waking world.


Seating himself beside the flowers, the chimera stared off into dream space. What horrifying things would await him this time? He knew he had to prepare himself for anything. Turning his subconscious head towards the right and left, the soldier kept himself on his currently hyena toes. Any second now, and it would be over.


Nothing happening for dream minutes on end, the early adult scratched his ears, for a moment. It was quiet here, almost too quiet. Had the world of sound been engulfed? Everything going on in silence, a false seed of hope planted itself inside him. Was the dream world, for once, not going to be tormenting?


An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.


Space around him warping, a hole soon formed underneath the hyena's possibly human rear. Dropping down into the unknown, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the distorted dream air. Hearing a loud splash consume his subconscious eardrums, the chimera opened his dream eyes once more. But, what awaited him on the other side only confused him further.


Finding himself in the bed of a small river, the chimera blinked. Where in the dream world was he? Spotting a group of familiar faces, confusion ripped the soldier up a new wound. Huxian and Pixiu adorning unusual outfits he had never seen before, a sea of questions flowed through him like a river. What was he seeing here, exactly? The otter duo, however, had not been alone.


Unusual looking soldiers adorning armor he had never seen before armed to the teeth with swords, a group of pitch black foxes entered the stage as if they owned the place. Blades clashing with the creatures, the hyena had come to a quick realization. Had the dream world taken him to Inazuma? How was that possible? He hadn't nearly been in the area enough for it to stick in his memory.


Fight only getting more intense as the dream seconds went onward, the hyena could feel the world around him collapse as a second realization washed over him like a tidal wave. Hadn't foxes been a sacred creature in Inazuma? But, he supposed that could have not been the case. Shouts soon kicking in, he had returned to not reality.


"Kitsuo, Ryuka! Try to focus on the fox's malignant energy!" the samurai exclaimed.


Hearing such names, the hyena lowered his dream eyes into a squint. Could the otter twins in the corner be Huxian and Pixiu's distant relatives? But, he soon shook his head. That could not have been in it. But, he supposed their crosses could have been passed down from generation to generation.


Foxes putting up quite the fight, the tables turned themselves one after another. Creatures claws doing the bloody honors, the possible otter duo belted out a pained scream. Samurai doing their duties quite well, the soldier's dream heart fluttered as the duo kept losing momentum.


"Kitsuo, Ryuka, try and hold on!" the samurai cried.


"I'm sorry, we're trying," 'Kitsuo' responded, body shaking. "But, their power is far too great."


"It's too rough for us," 'Ryuka' responded, voice weak. As she said such, she let out a wicked cough.


Studying the foxes, for a moment, the chimera lowered his dream eyes into a squint. Black, furry creatures adorning four tails a piece, swords embedded in each appendage, warning bells rung inside the soldier's subconscious mind. These fox spirits, something was off about them.


Creatures turning towards their backsides the hyena placed his hands over his lips at the sight before him. Foxes going in for the kill, one of the possible otter twin's torsos had been the center of attention. Clean cuts delivered as if their bodies had been slices of fruit, 'Ryuka' had soon been taken out of the picture. Limp body dropping to the ground like a hollow rock, her blood was about to make the sakura blossoms a brand new shade of pink.


One otter down for the count, the early adult placed his hand over his nonexistent dream heart. The chest had been one of the most vulnerable areas of the body, indeed. But, such waves of terror had only been the beginning. 'Kitsuo' dropped down to the ground, as well. Identical scar appearing out of nowhere, the hyena's dream eyes opened wide. What just happened? The opposite twin hadn't been struck in any way.


Pool of bright red crimson joining his sister's the early adult could not help but wonder. Had the saying that twins were connected one another been true? But, the soldier threw such thought away. This was a dream; nothing in front of him was reality. Pool continuing to blend the grass a new color, the hyena let out a scream that did not penetrate into reality.


"Archons! They're bleeding pretty bad!" the samurai shouted. "You two, hang on, we'll go get a doctor!" But, such shouts had been met with defiance.


"Don't bother," 'Ryuka' said in a weak voice. "It's already too late."


Party of two closing their eyes one final time, something quite unusual happened in a matter of dream seconds. Bodies completely vanishing into thin air, the chimera tilted his dream head. What in the world just happened? Where did their bodies go? But, such had only been the beginning.


Soldiers of yokai war forgetting the past few minutes, the early adult blinked. What in the world just happened? Why did they have no memories of the people they just fought alongside? But, he knew it would be a waste to try to make sense of it. Hole forming around him once more, space continued to warp around him. Closing his eyes, another surprise caught him off guard in a matter of moments.


Bed of lava underneath him, the hyena tried with all his might to escape. But, such freedom from the boiling isles never occurred. Feet burning away, he could feel himself fade, time breaking apart, an anomaly appeared before his dream eyes in a matter of ticking moments.


Spotting a shrunken down Huxian and Pixiu looking to be around the age of one year old, the early adult's mind had been fried. What is happening here? He didn't quite understand. But, he supposed the dream world never made any sense. Dark skinned lady addressing them as Zorro and Nieve, confusion continued to loop on repeat.


Such bewilderment had been cut short. Body boiling away, everything had been pitch black, breathing his last dream breath, the early adult closed his dream eyes. Everything about ready to fade away into nothingness, one final thought brushed against his dead backside.


What was all that just now?


***


"Don't know what's going on, but I have had to
Relocate myself back to Fleuve Cendre at the moment so I
Am closer to Rab. So,
Get this. It would seem there's been
One or two dozen dragons spotted around the Research Institute.
Now, Rabiu tells me it's those rascals again,
So, I've temporarily halted my full move in. I would halt


Everything for him if it means he doesn't have to battle with his bullies of a family. As my cousin would say: those
Villains. Oddly
Enough, though, I haven't seen
Robin around today.
You know, that's honestly rather odd.
Where could he be?
Hmm, maybe on a date with his boyfriend? Heard they're inseparable, you know?
Even so this is a five star bounty.
Rambunctious little fellas as Raven will sometimes say,
Err, actually, he's never said that. I guess I made that up.


Well, well, well, looks like it's up to me to deal with it--
Huh? That's kinda
Eerie. The Iudex has told me I am not ready for this kind of battle. And to that I say,
Rab's gonna get hurt. But, he again tells me these dragons have dominion over the sky.
Eh, so what?


That's no problem for me, I am a
Hawk chimera. But, he stands his ground. Did I waste my time postponing my full move in?
Evidentially, it would seem so,
Yes. But, I'd like to be


Support for Rab, you know,
How can he exclude me from the fight? So, I say: 'If Robin
Or Raven were here, you would let them take the highest bounty for double the pay.' And, well, that
Unleashed a brand new dragon on me: the Iudex's rage.
Looks like I opened a wound with that one.
Don't know why. Is he still on edge after what happened to the Melusine? So, I


Nibble out an apology for my words and exit
Out of his office.
This isn't making a lot of sense to me,


But, if he says I'm not ready, guess I believe him. The Iudex has been
Eccentric lately.


Looks like he hasn't gotten time for his water tasting hobby,
Oh, man, I dunno what to do now. I
Can't fight the dragons
And I fear if I do
The opposite of what I am told, I will face the never
Ending wrath of the Hydro Dragon. So, I
Dunno. Better not go off and disobey, or I'll fall into disarray."


The sound of bitter wind roared like a manticore from the top of a cliff out in the open wilderness. As the month long long blizzard had returned with a vengeance hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in a discordant harmony. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal in the frozen northern land.


The endless sea of complaints was more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially tormented slumber. Removed from his sleep daze, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his fading human brain. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, letting himself get bothered by a dream? He needed to get over it. Throwing fiction away, the hyena removed himself from the uncomfortable bed. Standing upward, the soldier had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena's uniform melted onto his partially human person, he couldn't help but wonder. Could the dream he had woken up from been real? But, he rapidly shook his head. No way that was the case. It was nothing more than a fabrication created in the subconscious world. Perhaps, just maybe, he had thought about the undersea otter duo seconds before drifting off.


Burying such thoughts deep down inside him, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, the soldier stared at the other sets seated in the box. Was this what he truly wanted, turning his final remnant of his stolen childhood into weapons? Rational brain on, at the moment, regret flowed through him. But, he knew it was his fault for giving into the impulse. There was no going back.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier gazed at the yellow-green orb, for a moment. His Vision, had it affected his dream world in some way? He had heard something quite some time ago that the element had connection to dreams. But, such thought had quickly been tossed out the window. Such could not have been the case.


Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the early adult stared at the steel wall. His dreams had been the same even before he had been granted the powers of nature. What had his vision even changed? Absolutely nothing. Not a single thing whatsoever. His life was a never ending loop of sameness with a different coat of paint. Throwing such thoughts away, the soldier took a long deep breath. He needed to focus and remove any unrelated thoughts right this instant.


Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp on will full force, the early adult turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be working with the Fortress of Meropide to take care of some business in collaboration with the Grand Duke." He then slapped a uniform upon his pants loud enough for the entire barracks to hear. "Here is your uniform. Change into it quickly."


Dark violet Fortress of Meropide guard uniform seated into the palms of his hands, the early adult swallowed a groan whole. Purple, what a retched color. Couldn't Her Majesty ever give him a different pallet to wear? Knowing there had been no time to waste, the hyena walked back towards his uniform drawers.


As the hyena swapped his winter jacket with his prison wear, he could feel a wave of irritation flow through him. What in the world was this ridiculous and vague order? Take care of what business? Could the Agent be anymore cryptic? But, he supposed that was the way of the Fatui. Throwing such thoughts away, the chimera had finished the redressing of the body. Stepping back towards his subordinate his ears had soon been ready to be blown off.


"Fix your buttons this instant, soldier!" the Agent demanded. "Do you want your cover blown?!"


Turning back around, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. What did it matter? His cover had already been blown during his first mission in the Fortress. The Duke already had known his profession. There was nothing to be revealed. Placing the fasteners into the correct holes, he turned around once more.


"I'm ready, sir," the hyena responded. Arm out in front of him, he waited for the gripping prison to take him away like always.


"Good. Let's go, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as tight as a fat head stuck through staircase railings, the soldier let out a sigh as the escort towards Fontaine began.


What business was he taking care of?


Vagueness should die a dishonorable death.


***


"I think this might be our last reversal.


After about, I've forgotten, I don't know,
Maybe five centuries, this time, it


Seems like it will be our last crusade.
This is the final countdown,
And I don't know how much time left. I hardly
Remember anything anymore.
There is so much
I have forgotten. I
Never know anymore, I
Get so confused every day,


That I feel like the
Only thing I remember some days is my name, Pixiu. No, not 'Monique', Pixiu.


Look, I am so far gone, sometimes I even question if that was ever my name.
One last reset
So, I have to make this one count,
Every day, I feel like I


Have forgotten more and more
Out with the old, out with the new.
Perhaps I will remember
Everything if I just


Try a little harder to not forget,
However, for me that hardly ever seems to work.
I wish I had a
Scrapbook to keep my


Memories on record somewhere, but
I doubt that would do me any
Good either.
How could I expect
To remember what the


Book would
Even be for? I don't know. It would quickly go


Obsolete. A completely and utterly
Useless piece of garbage. I will never
Remember what's been long


Forgotten. That's next to
Impossible for me and Huxian.
Nothing truly matters
Anymore, I am fading away,
Literally melting I


Rather despise that I that I barely remember anything,
Everything is always
So foggy, and
Empty, an endless sea of nothing.
This can't go on but,


There is nothing I nor
Huxian can do
Eh, I'm done fighting.


Each and every single
Reset has been worse than the last.
Our minds have begun to numb
So much at this point
I have just given up
Our fight is
Now reaching its end,


Huxian and I
Are on the final round.
Soon my mind will


Be completely gone, completely
Eroded away
Cannot say I am surprised,
Or anything, the last one hundred years or so,
Maybe that's when
Everything started to leave me


Ah, I don't know anymore. I am


Probably talking nonsense. I am just
Regurgitating my thoughts all
Over the place.
But, it is what it is. I won't
Look to the future, I don't have one I'll
Even know to look forward to.
My hope is dead. And, soon my brain will be, too. It's the final countdown. It's true."


Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint, a sense of doom flowed through the soldier. Was it just his imagination, or had the water levels been slightly higher than they normally were? Had Fontaine begun to flood? But, he had been dragged down the mountain before he could think any further.


Placed into the wooden vessel, the soldier stared down at the bed of water beneath him. It had quite high, hadn't it? Knowing he had to keep himself as still as possible, the hyena let out a gulp. Was this the beginning of the end for Fontaine? Throwing such thoughts away, he kept himself as still as possible.


As the vehicle of human movement pushed itself off towards its destination, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what was going on with the Nation of Justice? Something had happened overnight, for sure. There was no doubt about it. Had the country been facing the wrath of the Hydro Dragon?


But, his thoughts had soon been cut off, in a matter of moments. Soon reaching Romaritime Harbor before he could even blink, a wave of surprise flowed through him. He had been here already? How was that even possible? Time always marched on inexorably. Getting himself together, he had soon been dragged towards the stairwell.


Agent telling him for what felt like the quindecillionth time he was not allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the soldier slapped his knuckle upon his left hand. How many times was he going to say it? He knew already. Tell him something he didn't know. He was getting quite tired of hearing the same rule over and over again.


Satchel soon slapped upon his backside, a sharp warning had been gifted to the soldier. Told there had been dragons spotted around Fontaine, words of caution had been thrown his way. Also told to meet with the Iudex before heading to the Fortress, the chimera flared his nostrils. Agent soon exiting the area, the early adult belted a guttural laugh. Dragons? Out in the wilds of Fontaine? Yeah, right. He'll believe it when he sees it.


Not a single soul on the ground level of the harbor, the chimera's knees buckled. Where was everyone today? There had been far less people around in Fontaine lately. But, he supposed everyone had gone into recovery mode after the cube incident the day prior.


Ascending the staircase and taking the glass lift like usual, a small bed of water submerged his heelless shoes. Braving the puddles, the chimera called for the Aquabus. No one around, the early adult's nerves were jelly. It was quiet here, too quiet. Silence was deafening.


Aquabus shortly arriving, a disgusting face soon awaited him. Rich nobody seated on the opposite end, the hyena glared daggers at her. Why was she on tour guide duty again? She didn't even do her job properly. Seating himself from the furthest seat away from her, she soon returned a glare in kind.


"You'd better pay me more for my services this time!" the rich nobody shouted. "But, don't expect a tour, 'cause I don't care!"


As the vehicle of automatic movement cruised forward, the early adult let out a growl. Who did this woman think she was demanding payment when she refused to do her job? He would do no such thing. She would be paid what she deserved: next to nothing. Maybe if she actually did her job, she would get more.


Vessel passing by Poisson Tunnel, the hyena stared off towards the boat in the corner. The underground fish city, could it have been alright? But, the vessel had soon passed by it too fast for him to think about it further. Rich nobody reading a book titled, The Time I Got Reincarnated as a Saurian the soldier rolled his eyes towards the slightly cloudy sky. What a stupid book, just like her. Rich, and brainless.


Reaching the capital city of Fontaine after about fifteen minutes, the soldier prepared himself to disembark the vehicle. But, his uniform had soon been yanked with full force. Rich nobody holding her palm out, the chimera let out a deep growl. Was this woman being serious right now?


"Pay up!" the rich nobody demanded. "Sixty thousand Mora! Hand it over!"


Rich nobody demanding far more Mora than she deserved, the chimera rummaged through his pants pockets. Giving her six thousand, he waved in defiance. Woman daring to demand for more, her cries went ignored. Running as fast as his legs were to carry him, his wallet was closed. She could demand all she likes. She wasn't getting a single coin more.


Running towards the entrance, the chimera clicked his tongue. Who did woman think she was, charging people for the Aquabus. This time, for sure, he would be reporting her to the Iudex. Knowing he had to head to Palais Mermonia anyway, such thought stuck to his mind like glue.


Figuring he would need to request permission to use the glass lift in the back of the Opera House, the early adult prepared himself to head upon the northern pathway. But, as he prepared to do so, something of utter terror threw the soldier for a triple loop, and then some.


Entire city a ghost town, the soldier feel fear swallow him up. Where had everyone gone? Less and less people had been around lately. Such had been quite unnerving sight to see, for sure. But, the early adult tried to drown such thoughts out. Everyone was still recovering from the cube fiasco.


Small pool of water soaking his shoes, the early adult gazed upwards towards the sky. Sunny world blazing, the soldier scratched his head. Where had this flood come from? There was barely a cloud in the sky. The Hydro Dragon, perhaps it was angry. That had to have been it, surely.


Throwing such thoughts away, the chimera moved forward. It was just a tiny bit of water. There was nothing to worry about here. It was fine. Surely, this was not a sign of dark times to come. Soles soaked to the bone, the early adult let out a low pitched groan. The floodgates had opened.


Moving right along, the hyena could not help but wonder. The so called dragons, where could they have possibly come from? The hyena did not know. Surely, the Agent had just been exaggerating. A slip of the tongue. Why would there be dragons around here? There was no way.


Thoughts flowing like a river, doom drowned the chimera at bay. Was something even worse about to happen in Fontaine? There was no way this would end well whatsoever. This was the beginning of the end. The cube fiasco was the catalyst. Everything was breaking, collapsing, burning.


Streets still completely empty, the early adult shivered. Just how much damage had been caused by the previous events over the past several months? The soldier did not know, but it had to have been close to irreversible. The abyssal gazelles had flown too close to the sun.


Leaping off towards the side, the early adult attempted to throw his thoughts away. But, such had been impossible. It had already been too late. They had been ready to move towards their finale, the last saga. Whatever that might be, he knew he needed to prepare himself, or it would be too late.


But, the soldier remembered something of utter terror. The abyssal gazelles, hadn't they poisoned the air a week or so prior? Perhaps, just maybe, everyone had been hiding in their homes. But, the early adult shrugged. The hooded strangers had to have been bluffing. He needed to stop letting them waste his mind space.


Tuning his thoughts out, the soldier ran off towards the western streets. He was overthinking all of this, for sure. Surely, nothing else was going to happen. He needed to stop assuming the worst, or he would have to change his name to Nancy. Taking a deep breath, the next round of flooded thoughts soon took him away.


Not a single soul on the eastern streets whatsoever, silence looped on repeat. Melusines gone as well, the gears turned one after another. The sea denizens of Fontaine were nowhere to be seen as well? If such were the case, the Iudex would not be at his best right now, guaranteed.


Passing by Chioriya Boutique, a fancy sign had been on the door printed in cursive. Biggest fashion empire in all of Fontaine closed, the hyena blinked. Business was bust. Could the Congele boutique have their doors closed, as well? The retail world had shattered into a thousand pieces.


Staring at the clothing establishment one final time, the hyena had recalled something of particular note. Hadn't the owner of Chioriya Boutique been from the closed off nation of Inazuma? None of what was going on would have any affect on her. But, he supposed, if there were no customers to sell to, they had no reason to be open.


Not hearing the robotic voice of the Adventurer's Guild receptionist either, the chimera could feel everything ready to sink to the bottom of the ocean. Not even the inorganic life forms were around. The Court of Fontaine was dead through and through. Deceased, an oasis in the desert.


But, peace and quiet had soon been shot by a sniper rifle. Spotting a familiar pesky blond head from the backside, the soldier let out a groan. Why was Earl here? Why was it, no matter what the situation, he always had to run into this pest? He was every place, everywhere, all at once. How aggravating. He needed to avoid him at all costs.


Such, however, had been impossible in a matter of moments. Eyes wandering off towards him, the chimera held back the urge to bite. Great, he had been spotted, there was no escape. Perhaps he should run. But, he knew if even so much as attempted to do so, the pesky thorn in his side would chase after him.


Shaking his head, the early adult had begun running. He did not have time to deal with this fly's nonsense. No time whatsoever. It was time to go. Bombs away, he needed to get out of here. But, as he bolted off, a sea of shouts joined the race at like an uninvited guest at a party. Attempting to run faster, his breath weakened. What did this penguin have, eyes of a hawk? Absolutely ridiculous. He needed to give up the chase.


"I see you, Siorc!" Earl shouted. "Don't be a stranger!"


Siorc running away at the speed of light, Earl attempted to pick up the pace. Why was his future husband in such a hurry? Had he run away at the sight of him? What a silly thing to do. Seeing him in a prison guard uniform, his heart fluttered. He was working for the Fortress today? He was a keeper.


Hearing Earl scream out don't be a stranger, the soldier kept the steam inside him. How he wished they were strangers. When will he learn he had absolutely no interest in getting together with him? Just how dense was he? His brain was so heavy on romance, it would drown in the ocean. Would telling him he had a job to do get him to hop off his back? He most certainly hoped so.


"I have to head to the Fortress for work, sir," the hyena said, back turned. "Stop following me, and focus on your own work."


Prison job confirmed, Earl had recalled something sinister. Hadn't there some nasty bounties reported down there? The Fortress of Meropide was not safe! He needed to tell his future husband right away to turn around, or he would be chopped liver served cold. Warning on the tip of his tongue, he let out a scream.


"The Fortress is dangerous right now!" Earl screamed at the top of his lungs. "You should tell your boss to employ you somewhere else today!"


Shaking his head, the hyena's shoulder was ice. Did this thorn in his side ever stop talking? But, he knew he couldn't say such a thing. It was best to keep his mouth shut and keep his thoughts to himself. His concern was unwarranted. He was a soldier. He could protect himself just fine. But, a surprising set of words had soon come his way.


"Bye, Siorc," Earl said in a somber tone. "Keep yourself safe."


Earl heading back off towards the Adventurer Guild's reception desk, a wave of relief flowed through the hyena. Had he finally realized he was not interested in him? What an excellent outcome, if so. But, he knew that was wishful thinking every step of the way. That wasn't happening. He supposed he knew that all too well already.


Moving upon the southern path, not even the blacksmith was around. Seeing such, the soldier could feel everything crumble. The machinery was operating on its own, was that normal? The world of automation was a terrifying place. Running past it, the sound was grated cheese.


Staring off towards the entrance to Fleuve Cendre, for a moment the early adult could not help but wonder. How were the less fortunate dealing with all this? He did not know, but he knew that they would definitely be the group would be most affected by widespread devastation at such the scale it had been.


But, the early adult knew he had no choice but to turn a blind eye. If he were to disobey his orders and strive off course, he would be killed, for sure. One more instance of insubordination, and dead, for sure. He could return at a later point if he chose to do so. Turning back around, the hyena ascended the ramp.


Fountain nearing, the hyena puffed a breath. Would the Aquabus Information Station be empty, as well? If it had been, he knew he had to just let it go. He had to head to Palais Mermonia, no matter what. But, as he walked past the roaring waters, a surprise threw itself out into the open.


Spotting Lonan beside the fountain with Rabiu's integrated dagger and shield, a wave of heavy concern flowed through him. Had something happened to the researcher jackal? There were bad omens everywhere. But, another question soon stirred. Hadn't the bird man been moving? What was he doing here? Maybe it wouldn't hurt to bear a greeting. Eyes on him, the early adult waved.


"Sup, black fish steak bro," Lonan greeted. "Working hard, or hardly working?"


Shrugging, the soldier pointed at Rabiu's equipment. Tilting his head, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him, silent inquiries did a fusion dance with one another. Silent questions about the jackal chimera shot off at eyeshot he turned his head towards the right and left. Ha he asked too many questions? Maybe he should stop.


"Rab? He's doin' alright, bro. Just struggling a bit," Lonan responded to his wordless communication. "His equipment's broken, so I offered to fix it for him, but the blacksmith's out of town."


Hearing such, the chimera could not help but wonder. Just how close were Rabiu and Lonan? He couldn't help but feel they had to have been tight nit with an invisible red string around their fingers. Bidding the bird man farewell, the soldier walked off towards the Aquabus Information Station.


Station as empty as the rest of the city, the early adult took a long deep breath. Everyone was gone, missing, removed. A city was not a city with only two people around. How had this not been front page breaking story on all the newspapers in Teyvat? But, he supposed he was getting ahead of himself.


Moving towards the glass lift, the early adult attempted with all his might to put on the most diplomatic face possible. He needed to shut his worries off and focus on work. Pressing the button for the fourth floor of the city, the box moved upward. Fourth floor reached in a few minutes, the soldier steeled himself.


Fourth floor just as empty as all the others, the hyena could feel the world get bigger and emptier. Was there anyone else out there? Taking a deep breath, the soldier headed off towards the Palais Mermonia. Ascending the small staircase, he placed his hand upon the doors. There was no turning back now. It was time to go in.


Palais Mermonia silent and empty, a new worry had planted itself into the hyena's brain. Was the Iudex even in his office right now? Maybe he had been absent, too. Perhaps he should turn around and surrender to the void of nothingness. But, the hyena did no such thing. He could not turn around now. Heading towards the door, he knocked in a gentle manner.


"You may enter," the Iudex's distant voice said.


Puffing a sigh of relief, the early adult stepped into the office. Mountains of paperwork towering the man's desk the hyena blinked. The Iudex's work was never done, was it? Walking towards his desk, he excused himself. Eyes soon on him, he prepared to report the rich nobody.


"Monsieur Siorc, how may I help you?" the Iudex asked. His eyes soon wandered. "If you need to head to the Fortress of Meropide, feel free to use the elevator outside the Opera Epiclese."


Nodding the early adult, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Signing the words he needed to report something, a small pad and paper and pen had been handed off to him. Seating himself upon one of the couches, the early adult wrote down the crimes upon the leaflet of dendro creation. Rich nobody's extortion recorded for the entire population of one to see, the paper had soon been returned to the Iudex.


"I see, how very disappointing of her to illicitly take your Mora from you," the Iudex. "She will be dealt with accordingly."


Bowing a thank you, the soldier exited the Iudex's office. Heading off towards the glass lift once more, the box had taken him to the third floor in a matter of moments. Calling for the Aquabus, the early adult crossed his fingers. May there be no rich money grubbers on the Marcotte Station line.


Aquabus shortly arriving, a surprising temporary employee had graced the soldier's line of sight. Kali seated upon the vehicle of automatic motion in her sea lion form, the early adult did a quadruple take. Was he seeing things? But, he knew what he had been seeing right in front of him was reality.


"Welcome to the Aquabus, I guess," Kali said, voice monotone. "I will be your temporarily employed tour guide today." As she said such, she turned towards the guest in question. Seeing, what was his name again, Skirt? Skirk, Skoot? She couldn't remember, nor did she care. "Oh, it's just you. Uh, you don't need a tour. So, um, excuse me, I have some reading to catch up on."


Seating himself on the opposite end of the sea lion chimera, the soldier shrugged. She was right, he did not need a tour. Kali cracking open a book titled, The Art of Negotiation, the hyena let out a sigh. The prison book strikes again. But, the chimera knew he could not say such a thing.


Kali firing off multiple questions to herself about what certain words meant as the Aquabus moved towards the Marcotte Station, the early adult tried with all his might to tune out her inquiries to herself. Slamming the book shut stating she didn't get it, the soldier observed the area around him. Ground completely soaked everywhere the eye could see, the chimera held back a sigh. The flood was a never ending sea.


Reaching Marcotte Station after about twenty minutes, the soldier observed the area around him as he cut through the area. No one around whatsoever, the hyena shrugged, he supposed he would have to get used to the silence of the nobodies. Icewind Suite not even running, everything had felt wrong.


But, something had soon come out of left field as the early adult walked past the opera house. Hearing a loud roar from the sky above, the hyena titled his head upward. Did he hear what he thought he just heard? But, he shook his head. No, that could not have been it, surely. He had to have imagined it just now.


I had been far from his imagination.


Large dark blue dragon with bright azure scales swooping downward, the hyena's eyes pulsated. There had been a dragon in Fontaine, indeed. Why here, and why now? He wasn't ready for this whatsoever. Creature letting out its flaming breath of doom, the soldier let out a scream. He needed a weapon now.


Reptilian creature grabbing a hold of him from the ground, the early adult let out a grumble. This monster, what was it doing? Who did it think it was swooping him up like this? Satchel dropped down upon the ground beneath him, the early adult growled with all his might. He supposed he had no choice but to use his own claws to level the playing field.


Closing his eyes for a moment, the chimera's human hands had soon transformed into hyena claws. Swiping away with all his might, the reptilian creature let out a roar. Strong force soon taking him away, the soldier's small body had soon been a ball. Clinging onto the creature's tail for dear life, he had been shook off in a matter of moments.


Dropped down to the ground with a loud thud, the hyena rubbed his sides for a moment. But, he soon stood back up again. Attempting to reach for his bag, the chimera let out a battle cry. Such attempt had been a quick and immediate failure, however. Bag snatched up like it was a prize, the hyena waved his fist around in the air.


Reptilian winged enemy dropping down a sea of rocks, the early adult had gotten his defenses ready. Turning towards his backside, his tail had been on the case of the satchel caper. Minerals deflected back towards their owner, weakness twisted itself towards the opposite side of the battlefield.


Enemy becoming one with the sky after about twenty rock showdowns, the early adult wiped the sweat off his brow. So, that was the dangerous dragon the Agent warned him about? He supposed he should have taken his warning seriously. Returning his satchel to his backside, the young soldier headed off towards the glass lift. It was time to leave the surface world behind. Box dropping him downward, the chimera braced himself for impact.


Upon reaching the underground prison, the Grand Duke stood by the prisoner checklist area, arms crossed upon his chest. Seeing such, the early adult broke out into a deep sweat. Had he kept him waiting? Placing his hand into an apologetic stance, the soldier bowed his head. Grand Duke shaking his head, his finger had soon jerked towards the usual otter duo.


"He's here," the Grand Duke said to the undersea otter duo. "There's some dragons on the premises that seem to be targeting Zach and Monique." He then turned his head back towards 'Zach' and 'Monique'. "Care to explain, you two?"


Look of confusion painting the undersea otter twins faces, the soldier placed his hands on the side of his temple. Huxian and Pixiu forgot what he was even asking, didn't they? But, he could not help but wonder. Had this really been connected to them? Perhaps, just maybe, the Grand Duke was jumping to conclusions.


"What are you talking about?" Huxian asked, confused. "I don't--" But, he had soon been interrupted.


"You don't remember. I know, Zach," the Grand Duke interrupted. "Your memory's been worse lately."


Hearing such, the soldier stared at the undersea otter duo. These two, just what was wrong with them, exactly? Throwing such thoughts away, he focused on the workday at hand. There was no time to think about such things. He had a job to do. Hands out in front of him, inquiries about the dragons whereabouts had been signed on private display.


"All over the place," the Grand Duke said. His eyes soon wandered towards the otter duo. "Labyrinths, too."


Labyrinths brought up, the soldier let out a sigh. More domains? What was this, dungeons and dragons? But, the early adult popped such thought with a bubble. He bet the world literally had been printed on his forehead right about now. Knowing he had no choice but to deal with it, and usual weapon had soon been gifted to him.


Jousting javelin gifted to him, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. This was his weapon today? He was going to lose guaranteed. There was no way he would be able to use this weapon successfully. But, he knew he did not have a choice in the matter. This was his weapon today. He had to use it no matter what. Placing the weapon behind him, Pixiu's eyes had soon been glued to him for a brief moment.


"Purple?" Pixiu asked. "What are you doing here?"


"Don't you remember that there are dragons targeting you?" the Grand Duke asked.


"No?" Pixiu asked in a bewildered tone. "I don't remember that at all."


Hearing a roar close by, the hyena's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Circling around the Administration Area, the source of the noise had been located in a matter of moments. Blinding white dragons with blue eyes soon pointing laser eyes at him, the temporary prison guard clutched the javelin. Here goes everything.


Tossing the spear towards the enemy, the weapon missed its mark, in an instant. Gritting his teeth, the hyena tried again. Enemy flapping off towards the opposite direction of the tool's reach, the endless loop of failures wrapped themselves up into a bow. Rubbing his hands across the sides of his hair, he tried again once more.


Dragon flying around in an elliptical, the early adult jumped seven steps back. Lowering his eyes into a squint, the soldier attempted to aim for the legs. Surely, this was its weak spot. Weapon airborne once more, his weapon dropped down to the ground once more.


Dragon dropping down a rocky gift the hyena jumped three steps back. Aiming the weapon towards the rocks, the early adult huffed a deep breath. Where had these dragons come from, Liyue? The power of Geo was within them. Mineral rain decimated, the next attempt to turns the tables cemented itself into place.


Javelin missing its mark once more, the chimera let out a sigh. Where in the world was he supposed to aim at this creature? Every attempt continuing to miss, the dice rolled a one every single time. Losses piling themselves up, only one last spot remained. Staring at the wings, the soldier took aim.


Wings taken out of the equation, the reptilian enemy had soon come crashing down. Enemy open, the early adult's legs erupted into a sprint, javelin mounted like the nonexistent horses, the first of many dragons had been slain after thirty-two strikes. But, the war lived on.


Huxian and Pixiu attempting to go after the flying dragons, the soldier shook his head, Had they remembered something? If they did, they had done so too late. Army of white dragon with azure eyes aiming for the twins, the early adult prepared the jousting tool.


Second set of reptilian creatures defeated, the soldier let out a groan as the fights throughout the Administration Area continued. Wings aimed at one after another to the fullest extent, the chimera let out a weak huff. Just how many dragons had been on this floor? It had to have been at least a dozen of them.


Creatures slain one after another, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why had these reptilian creatures been going after the otter duo in the first place? Something had not been adding up. Twins not providing any useful answers, the concrete broke down the center.


Figuring the next course of action would be to head towards the production zone, the soldier dashed off towards the glass lift. Huxian and Pixiu demanding he wait for them, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Didn't these two remember they were being targeted by these creatures? Waving the white flag, the early adult headed off towards the upper level of the production zone.


But, immediately upon reaching such floor, the dragon struck back. Otter duo scooped up and soon airborne with blank expressions on their face, the soldier slapped his hand across his face. These two were hopeless, weren't they? Did they forget they had crosses at their side, too? The situation was bleak.


Knowing he had to try his best to defeat the enemies in front of him, the soldier aimed for the wings. But, such had been a mistake. Enemy flying around in a circle, the hyena could feel his blood boil. Could these enemies get any more annoying? Creature's elliptical only getting faster, his eyes were jelly.


Reptilian beast not slowing down for even moment, the soldier let out a sigh. What were these creatures, the speed demons? They should be called evil knievel. But, the early adult threw his snide remarks off a bridge. There was no time for this, he had to figure out a solution now.


Creature slowing down, the early adult tossed the weapon of doom off towards the enemy. But it had soon been dodged like it was nothing more than a paperweight. Failure soon looping on repeat, the soldier sighed. Surely, there had to have been another way to deal with this.


Snapping his fingers, an idea slipped itself into the chimera's mind. Climbing upwards towards the Meka production area, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment. Taking the leap of faith, the spear and the dragon's stomach had soon become intertwined with one another.


Upper production level done and dealt with after about an hour, the soldier raced off towards the lower level production zone. But, what awaited him upon this level. Dragons with hideous metal plating everywhere upon their bodies, the early adult let out a groan. Their defenses were up and running? He was in trouble, for sure.


Javelin doing next to nothing for minutes on end, the early adult tired with all his might to crack through the armor. But, such had been next to impossible. Defenses iron tight, the soldier was ready to rip his hair out. There was no way to penetrate the armor, for sure. But, knew he could not give up. He had to keep trying, no matter what.


Such tries lead to nowhere fast. Dropping his weapon, he stared at the metal plating. Just how sturdy was their shield? It had to have been impenetrable. Javelin becoming a paperweight, the soldier rose his hands into the air. But, such action had soon been interrupted by a series of questions.


"Wait, purple, what are you doing here?" Pixiu asked, tilting their head. "And why are you fighting that dragon?" She then turned toward their brother. "Why are we in the Fortress?"


"Don't know," Huxian said, shaking his head. "I don't remember."


Hearing such, the hyena turned towards the forgetful otter duo. These two were too far gone, weren't they? How much worse had their memories gotten at this point? They had forgotten where they were. Such was a landmine upon the ground waiting to burst. But, he had soon been taken out of his thoughts as the otter's chatter continued.


"Oh, right, the dragons," Huxian responded. "I remember now, the Grand Duke said, 'Zach, Monique, wherever these dragons came from, you need to take care of them'." Placing their hands on their cross, they prepared themselves. "But, my name isn't Zach, and yours isn't Monique."


"That doesn't ring a bell," Pixiu replied, shrugging. "Did he really say that?"


"Don't know," Huxian said. "But, he's always yelling at us anyway." Cross glowing a blinding yellow light, he let out a shout. "Focalors, I call upon your power to banish these dragon invaders!"


Blinding yellow light engulfing the dragon army in a matter of moments, every single one had been bathed in the light. Creatures melting into nothing, the hyena blinked. How did Huxian always have the power of god and animals at his side? But, he shook such off. What was with that nonsense he thought up just now?


Huxian and Pixiu soon claiming they had remembered something else, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. How convenient for their brains to suddenly start working now. It was almost as if, such convenience had been created to push a word salad of a story along.


Party of two running off towards the glass lift that lead to the Abandoned Production Zone, the hyena chased after the trio. What were these two after? Snapping his fingers, he soon recalled. Right, there was a labyrinth somewhere within the prison; he had almost forgot. Had the otter duo's terrible memory disease rubbed off on him? Forgetfulness was a contagious illness.


Reaching the Abandoned Production Zone, a bright blue door soon awaited the party of three. Seeing such, the hyena let out a sigh. Not another domain, anything but a domain. But, he knew he had no choice but to deal with it. His orders were absolute. Otter duo stepping inside before him, the soldier took a long, deep breath.


Stepping towards the door, a blinding light soon engulfed the chimera. But, what awaited him on the other side of the entrance had been something rather peculiar. Seeing an ancient looking area he had never seen before, the chimera could not help but wonder. Where had he been, exactly? The chimera could not pinpoint it at all.


Finding himself by a river that stretched for kilometers, and rocks aplenty, the hyena scratched the side of his head. Just where had the domain world taken him to exactly? Had he been transported to an entirely different world? But, he shook his head. He was jumping to conclusions, for sure.


Staring off at the world around him, the hyena could not help but continue to ponder. This domain, just what purpose did it serve? There had been nothing here but the river and some rocks. It was time to find the exit and get out of here. But, the otter's voices soon interrupted his flow.


"I remember now," Huxian said as a declaration. "We must throw stones across the river."


"Are you sure?" Pixiu asked.


"Fifty-fifty," Huxian responded, shaking their head.


Hearing such, the hyena slapped his palm across his face. If Huxian wasn't certain, then why did he even bring the point up? But, he supposed it was in his best interest to toss a rock across this river. Surely, it would lead to an exit sooner or later. Or, perhaps it was all just nonsense. It had started to look like such.


Rocks skipping across the water one after another, strange bubbles with a reflective surface had soon appeared out of nowhere. Seeing such, the soldier could feel more questions than answers. What in he world was that thing? But, heh ad soon come to a realization as the bubble changed shape.


Tainted Hydro Phantasm appearing on the scene, Huxian and Pixiu's crosses had done the honors. Defeat coming for them before he could even blink the early adult could feel a wave of uselessness flow through him. Why was he even here? Otter duo telling him to leave the fights to them, he shook his head. They'd forget any second now why they were here. He could not leave it all to them.


Skipping another rock across the water, another bubble appeared. But, something had been different about it. Soapy object looking as though it had been another world, Huxian and Pixiu hopped in. Following shortly after, a long desert trail awaited him. Although, something had been unusual.


Messages in the sand, the soldier blinked. Words upon the sediment written out in all seven written Teyvat languages, the chimera gazed at the Snezhnayan writing. Reading it all the message screamed out, Two hundred fifty years ago, a healthy baby gazelle chimera had been born. Reading such, the chimera tilted his head. What in the world was this random information doing in a place like this?


Next message in the sand reading, Seeking greater powers, the two gazelles willingly sold themselves to the Ayss Order, the soldier adjusted his glasses. Why was the sand telling the story? But, he supposed there was no way to show the information to him.


Continuing onward through the sand, another message had soon popped up in front of him. Sediment writing out that the abyssal gazelles had overthrown everything, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the pitch black sky. Tell him something he doesn't know. He knew this tidbit already, but he had soon received something far more sinister.


Sand spelling out the gazelle had reality bending powers, the soldier slapped his knuckles upon his left hand. He knew all that already. Wasn't it obvious? Why was this information even here? It's not like he needed everything spelled out to him. He already knew. He wasn't dense. Last few bits of information seeded in, a new bubble had soon arisen from the ashes.


Huxian and Pixiu hopping, the soldier had soon joined them. Finding himself in what looked to be ancient Liyue, the chimera turned towards the otter duo. Were they sure this was the right place? Heading off towards the mountains, something unusual had begun to happen as the party of three ascended the cliffs.


Huxian's cross glowing, the early adult blinked. What was going on with their weapon? Something had been different. Seeing fox tails on the otter's back for a brief moment, the soldier straggled behind, for a moment. What was going on here? Something had changed.


Reaching the top of the mountain, nothing but two mirrors had been awaiting the trio. Huxian and Pixiu standing beside them, their reflections did not stare back at them. Seeing such, a multitude of questions raced through the soldier's mind. These two, just what were they really? Did otters not have reflections in mirrors, or something?


But, what stared back at them was something of another world. Fox creature and dragon creature in the mirror instead the soldier turned his attention towards the twins. Huxian and Pixiu, just who were they really? Had they been who they said they were or shapeshifting tricksters in disguise? He didn't know anymore.


"That's right, I remember now," Huxian said, voice slightly loud. "Inside our crosses are the souls are ancient Gods." Staring at the mirror for a moment he placed his hands upon the glass. "This reflection of them, it's all coming back to me now."


"That sounds familiar," Pixiu replied. "Isn't that what mother told us four hundred ninety five years ago when she gifted us our crosses?"


Hearing such, the soldier could not help but feel confused. What in the world were they talking about? Four hundred ninety five years ago? The souls of ancient gods? He couldn't make sense of any of this. This was a dream wasn't it? Wincing as he pinched himself, he shook his head. He was definitely awake now, no doubt about it. But, the otter duo soon continued their speech.


"Right. And we were named after those gods. And can call upon their powers," Pixiu said, voice drifting off. "Husen and Bixie." But, she soon shook her head. "But, such contract came with a heavy price."


Hearing such, the soldier blinked. He needed a quick refresher on what had been said just now. Huxian and Pixiu's crosses had the souls of gods in them? That's where their powers came from? But, he couldn't help but ponder. Did those powers truly belong to them? What kind of price did they have to pay to use it? But, he supposed he would find out soon enough.


"If you haven't figured it out, your funeral, but I guess I'll tell you," Huxian said, shrugging. "We are cursed." He then pointed at the next memory bubble. "If you'd like to know more, touch that memory bubble."


Nodding, the soldier stepped into the next memory bubble. But, what awaited him was something unexpected. Seeing memory scraps of Huxian and Pixiu looking to be around thirty, tiny little clones of themselves had been seated in both their arms. Husband and wives off in the corner, the early adult could feel a new wave of confusion.


Studying the memory for a moment, more questions rolled the dice. The undersea otter duo, why were they still together even after they had settled down with their own families? They had been married and had their own babies to look after, didn't they? But, perhaps he was overthinking it. Siblings lived together all the time.


"Why do you look like we grew second heads?" Pixiu asked. "Is something disturbing you?"


Shaking his head, the early adult kept studying the scene in front of him. Chimeras having children of their own, why did that seem like such a faraway concept to him? But, maybe he had been overthinking it. It's not like his entire race was created by alchemy, or something.


"I don't know. Maybe this is a stretch, but I guess purple doesn't understand why we are together in this memory bubble," Huxian said, shrugging. "Since you're so eager to know, I guess I'll tell you. But, I must warn you. You are not going to like what you hear. So, prepare yourself." They took a deep breath as they said such. "Pixiu and I are soul linked to each other. And, thus, we cannot be more than one hundred meters apart from one another, or something terrible will befall us."


Informed that the next part of the domain was through the next door, the soldier had begun to head off towards the unknown. But what had appeared on the other side was a terror show for an entire audience to see. Huxian and Pixiu looking to be around half a century old, a sudden ambush had taken the party of two by surprise.


Memory Pixiu falling to the ground, the fragments of Huxian fell as well. Seeing such, the hyena could not help but feel confused. Why had the other otter chimera been down, too? He hadn't been injured. But, such had soon been interrupted by a dragon attack. Otters vanquishing them in a matter of moments, the scene kept playing.


"As you can see, I 'died' that day," Pixiu said. "And, if I die, so does Huxian. But, that's not all. Purple, watch this."


Huxian and Pixiu's bodies reducing back to the size of that of an infant, the soldier blinked. What just happened. had they been reborn? What about that was a curse? Didn't most people hope to have the ability to start a new life? But, he shook his head. No, that wasn't it at all. It couldn't have been.


But, what awaited him next was a wave of bitterness. Memories skipping about a decade and a quarter, the early adult placed his hand over his mouth at the next revelation in front of him. Memory fragment Huxian and Pixiu trying to reunite with their offspring, icy cold words had come their way.


"You're my mother? Yeah, right. I never had a mother!" the memory fragment said. "Not once in my life, woman. Don't try to pretend you're my so called long lost mother!"


"Mommy, what's wrong?" a little kid asked.


"Nothing, ----," the memory fragment said. "Mommy's just ignoring a stranger."


Hearing such, everything had come to the soldier immediately. Huxian and Pixiu, were they under some sort of death and rebirth curse? That had to have been it. It couldn't have been anything else, and he knew that. But, such thoughts were interrupted, in an instant. Dragon dropping by, the memories cracked.


Huxian and Pixiu sending the monsters to beyond the world of the living, the slapped hyena blinked. Just how powerful were the god spirits inside their crosses? He didn't know, nor did he want to. Dragon dropping to the ground, a fiery message had been gifted to the soldier. Dragon burning into the ground, the fawns from the desert world have reality warping powers, the chimera sighed. Tell him something he didn't know.


But, he had soon been kicked out the labyrinth. Staring at the otter duo, he could not help but think. These two, every time they died, they were reversed back to infancy. How in the world did any of that work? He did not know, and he wasn't about to guess.


Otter duo dragging him to the cafeteria. Mystery food had been obtained. Disgusting dish handed off to him, tears strolled down his face. What was this awful gruel? Huxian and Pixiu obtaining tasty dishes, the tears continued to fall. Why was the food system in the prison a lottery?


Escorted to his temporary bed in the dormitory block, the soldier placed himself upon the rock hard prison bed. Heavy wave of tiredness overtaking him, the hyena closed his eyes. But, as he had done so, a heavy wave of questions flowed through him one after another.


Just how many times had the otters reversed back to zero already?


***


"I just don't understand this. I simply


Do not get it. Nothing is adding up here.
Or, maybe that's just not it.
Nothing is making sense.
That domain with all the information. I just really don't


Get it. The otter duo have gods inside their crosses?
Even after hearing all of that,
This just feels like


It's not true under any capacity.
There's just now way. How could there be?"


Waking up the next morning, Huxian and Pixiu had been by his bedside as if they were waiting for him. Seeing such, the soldier groaned. What did they want from him so early in the morning? If they had more stories to tell now, it could wait until later. Couldn't he have five more minutes to not exist? But, his shoulders had soon been shook.


"I may be forgetful, but I know you're not sleeping, Purple," Pixiu said, shaking the hyena's left shoulder. "Get out of bed. The Duke wants to see you."


"Why does he want to see him again?" Huxian asked.


"I don't know," Pixiu replied. "I can't seem to recall."


Grumbling, the early adult removed himself from the bed. Absolutely outrageous. It had only been the crack of dawn. Why did he have to wake up this early? There were too many fish in this pond. But, he supposed he had no choice but to follow orders. Leaving his bed, he headed for the Grand Duke's office.


Head of Special Security Patrol holding out her musket, the hyena jumped four steps back. Did she seriously have to have her weapon out at all times? He wasn't a wanted criminal. She could put her pistol of war away now. Eyes soon on him, his next order of business had soon been delivered.


"I've heard you have a good nose," the Special Security Patrol leader said. "Go hunt down a hidden crime syndicate that was reported in this prison for me, and I'll pay you handsomely."


Hearing such, the early adult blinked. What was that he just heard? There had been secret crimes being committed in the prison? Why was this something that could have been allowed? Weren't people who were arrested and sent here done so as a way to reflect? Nodding, he prepared himself to hunt down the worst of all problems.


Walking around the Administration Area, the early adult looked everywhere he could. Figuring it had been best to start with the cafeteria area, the soldier headed off towards that section of the prison. A crime syndicate, they usually hid themselves in plain sight, didn't they?


But, nothing out of the ordinary stuck out to the soldier. Inmates going about their jobs for credit coupons like they always did, he studied every single prisoner that stepped on through the area. But, nothing stood out to him. Everything had been normal. But, he soon lowered his eyes into a squint. Or, was it?


Prisoners selling hats to one another, a wave of suspicions flowed through him. Why were these people selling fedoras? How very weird and unusual. What were they doing with those? But, he knew he couldn't question it. If he were to call it out, they would be onto him.


But, the soldier shook his head. People were just using their credit coupons, right? Nothing to worry about, surely. It had to have been a normal occurrence down here, for sure. What was he so worried about? This wasn't the hidden crime syndicate, no way.


Not finding anything of note in the Administration Area, the soldier scratched his cheek. The Pankration Ring, maybe something suspicious was going on there. Resolute on his decision, the temporary prison guard headed off to such area. Cracking his knuckles, he tossed himself in.


Fighting tournament going on like always, multiple burly men were smacking each other around like they had been paperweights. Seeing such, the chimera shook his head. Nothing out of the ordinary here. Just the violence for sport. These people had to have paid a lot of their credit coupons for this. Nothing to see here, guaranteed.


Continuing to watch the fights, however, his mind soon wandered. Could this little club have been the secret crime syndicate? But, he shook his head. Why would hat be the case? If it had been, wouldn't the first rule have been one: do not talk about the Fight Club?


Burly men ending their punching matches, the chimera shrugged. He could feel it in his gut. This was not the secret crime syndicate. It couldn't have possibly been. Why was he even assuming that? It was terrible to jump to conclusions that simply were wild stretched of the imagination.


Crossing the Pankration Ring off the list of possible suspects, the chimera wondered. Could the secret crime syndicate have been in the production zone? The Abandoned One, it lead to a place with green crystals. Surely, there had to have been a hidden world behind there where secret crimes were being committed. No one ever went there. It was the perfect place for criminal activity.


Walking through the upper level of the production zone in a circular loop for hours on end, absolutely nothing of note stood out to the soldier. Usual guards patrolling, and robot production belt doing its duty, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Surely, there just had to be a secret room up here.


But, nothing at all of the sort had been the case. Looping around for a few more hours, it had all been the same. Nothing and no one here, he shook his head. Maybe the Special Security Patrol leader was mistaken. Why would anyone even dare to make a secret crime syndicate inside a high security prison? They'd be caught in seconds.


Dropping down to the lower level, the soldier kept looking. If he were a to go somewhere to do unspeakable criminal activity, where would he go? Feeling static his brain, the early adult rubbed the sides of his temples with a fury. How should he know? He was a Diplomatic Fatui Soldier, not a thief, larcenist or murderer. He hardly knew how a criminal thought.


Looking around the area some more, the soldier could not find anything of especial note. Keeping his eyes on the wall, he stared at the sides. Could here have been some hidden wall behind the work machinery or something? That had to have been it. A criminal would try to make a secret passageway, for sure.


No such secret passageway existed. Official Meropide guard demanding he stop fooling around and take his search more seriously, the chimera bowed an apology. Right, he had to take his job seriously, or his cover as a member of the Fatui would be blown.


Shaking his head, he shrugged. What was he even saying? His cover had already been blown on the first day of being disguised as a Fortress Guard. Everyone had already known the truth, hadn't they? Sighing, the chimera avoided the walls. There was nothing there to see.


Moving towards the abandoned production zone, the hyena placed the palm of his hand towards the top of his temple. Had all the dragons been taken care of? They had to have been, he hadn't heard any roars since yesterday. Surely, they were no longer a problem within the prison.


Think of the devil.


Hearing a loud roar of a dragon, the soldier let out a groan. Did he just will the dragon into existence? His mistake. He needed to take it out of the picture right here, right now. Throwing spear out in front of him, the chimera closed his eyes. If this were a normal polearm, it would be game over.


Dragons javelined back into nonexistence, the early adult dashed off towards the secret mining factory towards the back of the prison. Surely, there was something back here that would be darning evidence. Running through with all his might, he could feel a wave of determination. He swear as he thought such, he had become a bright red heart in a pitch black room.


No crime syndicate to speak of hiding off in the mining area, the soldier whiffed up an unusual scent. What in the world was that stench? Could there be something down here after all? Running towards the mines, something rather strange had been an otter's foot.


Spotting radioactive rocks, the hyena backed ten steps away. How unusual, when did these get here? Rocks pulsating for some reason, the confusion looped on repeat. What in the world were these things? Something wasn't right here. Minerals shaking, the chimera backed ten further steps back.


Toxic green minerals shaking, they had soon grown legs and walked away. But, they had soon summoned a huge rock beast. Seeing such, the hyena flinched. What was going on here? Was he dreaming? Pinching himself, he flinched once more. There was no way he was asleep right now.


Large green rock dragon shaking the ground, the hyena had become one with the ground. Quakes continuing, the hyena held on to the floor with the best of his ability. Tremors not ceasing for minutes on end, the hyena let out a scream. What in the world was this nonsense? This was too much.


Lifting himself to his feet, an opening had soon been available. Taking a long deep breath, the chimera threw down a flower friend. Windwheel Aster friend adorning stem like arms and legs dancing upon the battlefield, silent commands had been provided for the flower that had been brought to life by his Dendro Vision.


Rocky beast eventually slain with the power of nature and hyena claws, the soldier's heart sped up a smidgeon. This battle, why had it been so tough? But, he supposed it was his fault for barely ever making use of his Vision. That was on him, and he knew that. But, his thoughts had soon been interrupted by the sound of frantic feet.


"Purple! Come to the Dormitory Black!" Huxian shouted. "Now."


Wave of urgency in Huxian's voice, the soldier nodded. Had they found something in the prison sleeping quarters? Pixiu leading the way, he couldn't help but feel a wave of disappointment growing inside him. How could he have not seen the most obvious place where trouble could have been lurking? He was the worst investigator ever.


Pushing through the Rag and Bone Shop, the usual employee had been nowhere to be seen. Multiple cases of merchandise pushed out, the hyena could hardly believe his eyes what he had seen behind the multiple shelves of goods being sold for credit coupons.


Spotting a group of prisoners making counterfeit sinthe in a makeshift lab behind a broken wall, the early adult crossed his arms across his waist. These criminals, why were they making the most dangerous Fontaine drug of them all behind the reward shop? Who was responsible for this?


Bald man with glasses and a short brown beard concocting ingredients the early adult sighed. This man was the ring leader in all this, wasn't he? Sinthe, the most dangerous Fontainan drug. Why didn't he think to search the dorms earlier? He was a brainless speck of dust upon the wind. Pixiu cupping her hands around her mouth, she soon let out a shout.


"---------, we found them!" Pixiu shouted. "The secret crime syndicate!" Shouts soon heard, booted footsteps took the stage.


"Making sinthe in secret," the Special Security Patrol leader scolded, clicking her tongue. "Not very smart, are you?"


"Time will be added to your punishments accordingly," the Grand Duke said in a cold tone.


Knowing a prison beating was about to come, the early adult dashed out of the dormitory block at the speed of light. Whatever was about to befall those prisoners, he did not wish to see it. Returning to the Administrative Area, the chimera munched on a terrible welfare meal.


Otter duo soon informing him they needed to go to the ocean, a couple more labyrinths appeared, the soldier let out a sigh. More? Hadn't he already done enough today? But, he knew he had absolutely no right to complain. He had a job to do. There was no complaints allowed.


Diving equipment soon upon him, the otter duo soon lead the way, Pixiu had soon informed him the domain had been on the northern most edges of the Liffey Region hearing such, the soldier put his diving suit on slow mode. It had been that far off from here? That was quite the trip, for sure.


Huxian and Pixiu transforming into their otter forms, the chimera kept his suit on slow mode for minutes on end. There had been a labyrinth at the edge of the area. How did one manage to appear there? How very unusual. Otter duo swimming past him, he could hear aggravated sighs come his way.


"Purple, did you make your tech go slow because you're afraid we'll forget how to swim?" Huxian asked, rolling his otter eyes. "Cut that out, please. You don't have to make it go so slow. Yes, we forget next to everything, but we're not going to forget how to swim."


"Quite frankly, it's a bit offensive of you to assume we need to guided like lost puppies, Purple," Pixiu said in an irritated tone. "We know where we're going, thank you."


Bowing an apology, the entrance towards the domain had soon been reached. But, what awaited him inside was something unlike anything he had ever seen before in subspace world. Land in front of him looking similar to Windrise in Monstadt, but ancient, the soldier blinked. What time period of Mondstadt was this? But, something else had been unusual.


Spotting a fragment of Huxian and Pixiu in highly religious black church outfits, the chimera blinked. A tall generic woman in a nun outfit staring at the phantom otter chimeras sitting down by the large tree in Mondstadt, the chimera blinked. Was this their mother? But he threw such thoughts away. No, that couldn't have been it. Nuns were all married to the Anemo Archon. There was no way they had any children. But, the memory flow soon interrupted everything.


"Tristan, Angie!" the nun shouted. "What are you two doing out here? You're supposed to be at choir!"


"My name isn't Tristan," Huxian's phantom said. "It's Huxian."


"And, 'mother,' we don't worship Barbatos, we worship?" Pixiu started to say, but she soon hesitated for an entire three minutes. "I can't remember. Who do we worship again?"


Turning towards the otter chimeras their eyes had been closed. Seeing such, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had this been a painful memory for them? Maybe they had suppressed it deep inside them. That had to have been it, surely. But, the taller otter chimera soon spoke.


"It was, I'd say around one hundred years ago," Huxian said, shaking his head. "We started eroding." But, he soon shrugged his shoulders. "But, we just ignored that for awhile. We didn't think it was a big deal."


Moving through the memories of Mondstadt long gone, the soldier had witnessed the Mondstadt Aristocracy in action. Multiple family clans existing, the soldier placed his finger on his chin. He recalled hearing something like this in some of his father's book he read in his stolen childhood.


Cruising through memory lane, something of unusual note stuck out to the soldier. Phantom Huxian and Pixiu speaking to a blond haired man, the chimera blinked. Why did he look so much like the Acting Grand Master? But, he supposed he could have been her great grandfather or something. Pixiu linking her hands together and putting them behind her back, the next curtain was called to the stage.


"That was our I guess you could call him our 'father' in that reset cycle," Pixiu said. "He was a member of the Gunnhildr clan. But, we refused call ourselves Tristan Gunnhildr and Angie Gunnhildr. Our 'parents' didn't like that. They thought we were ungrateful over our adoption."


But, the next scene that played twisted the walls and then some. Twins in bed faces blue and coughing up red ooze, the soldier backed seven steps away. What was he witnessing? Phantom Pixiu crying she was sorry, she shouldn't have been so cold, mother, the hyena could feel tears running down his cheek. Was this how they perished in this reset?


"Right, I remember now," Huxian said. "We were afflicted with a terrible plight in this reset." Covering his eyes with his arm, his words muffled. "There was water in our lungs and we didn't make it..." He took a deep breath. "I want you to remember this, Purple, even if we forget. Twins are connected." He crossed his arms across his waist. "Pixiu and I are soul linked."


"Huxian, didn't you say that yesterday?" Pixiu asked.


"Don't know," Huxian replied. "I don't remember." But, such trip down memory lane had been cut short.


Dragon letting out a roar, Huxian and Pixiu had gotten their crosses ready. Screaming out the holy scriptures of the archons, the reptilian creatures had soon been taken out of the picture. Every single dragon removed from the equation, Huxian soon turned back towards the hyena.


"Purple, you're still listening, right?" Huxian asked.


Question coming his way, the soldier nodded. How could he not listen? Everything that had been said was impossible to ignore. Why wouldn't he be hearing them out? He knew he should have been, it was better to do so. That's how it should have been. Signing the words go on, the otter took a breath.


"So, you are," Huxian said, deadpan. "You know, Erosion? It's the end all, be all, for those deemed immortal. This reset might be our last." A door then appeared in front of him. "This is the last corridor. Let's go."


Next domain upon him, another sand world soon appeared. Multiple messages about the abyssal gazelles had been written out in the sand. Learning what the fawn villains had truly been capable of, the soldier covered his mouth with his hands. He sees now, he knows everything. All there is to know. All the power that they possess.


But, such gathering of information had been cut off. Army of Abyss Mages coming out of nowhere, the chimera could see a spark in Huxian and Pixiu's eyes. Messages on the sky detailed the abyssal gazelle's rise to the top, the Mages laughed. But, they had soon been decimated in seconds.


Huxian adorning four fox tails from behind him, and strange dragon behind Pixiu, the hyena stared off into space. The otter duo had they just summoned the god spirits inside their crosses? He sees now. He understands. They have woken up now. There was no turning back.


Soon kicked out of the domain, a blinding light overtook the area. Sent back to the prison like nothing happened, a wave of tiredness flowed through the soldier. Plopping down into his temporary bed, the temporary prison guard drifted off into sleep, in a near instant. But, one last thought had been dragged down into the dream world.


Over simulation is tiring.


***


"This is it, there's no turning back now.
Huxian and Pixiu are awake. They have remembered
Everything. All there is to remember.
Yes, they have done it, they have remembered it


All. Everything. All of it. They
Remembered everything. All of it.
Everything. I don't think they


Are no longer eroding,
Whatever that means, but this is
All. That's the end now, I
Know it is, they're finally in a place of good memory, or maybe this is temporary.
Eh, I don't know. I can't say either way."


Feeling his shoulders shoved over and over again, the hyena awakened from his especially deep slumber. What in the world was going on? Couldn't he have five more minutes to sleep? But the screams and shouts kept going. Told he couldn't sleep this was an emergency, the hyena removed himself from bed.


Something going down in the Grand Duke's office, the soldier had begun running. What was going on down there? He had to investigate. But, what awaited him in the secret room had been something of utter horror. Hydro Phantasms squirming around the room, the Melusine Head Nurse let out a shout.


"Some of the Prisoners have become Hydro Eidolons after drinking the illegal sinthe!" the Melusine Head Nurse screamed. "I should have taken that stuff away! Humans can be so crafty sometimes!"


"Never mind that, Miss ---------, they're about to blow!" Huxian shouted. He then lowered his voice into a whisper. "I remember everything now. These Eidolons are really--" But he had soon felt an electric shock. "What was I trying to say? Never mind."


"That we have to fight these former prisoners," Pixiu said.


Hydro Eidolon creatures immune to everything for minutes on end, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What in the world was going on here? Why couldn't he battle the water droplet creatures? Attempting to doss down his flower friend, his Silk Flower friend did absolutely nothing as well.


Nurse and Grand Duke's attacks proving just as useless, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Even the power of Cryo was useless here? How could that be? One wasn't adding up to two. Trying once again, nothing happened. Realizing such, the soldier could feel defeat loom over his shoulder.


Duke commenting that the sinthe had made them invincible, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. The illicit materials had done what now? No way this was possible now. It was over, done, a sealed deal. It was the end of the road. Nothing was going to work. Attempting to wave the white flag, the Duke gazed at the hyena.


"Hey, don't give up," the Grand Duke said. "That boss of yours said you're stubborn. Show me some stubborn pride."


Hearing such, the early adult closed his eyes for a moment. Hyena claws replacing his human hands, he slashed forward. Right, he was stubborn. He couldn't lose here. Invincible, smivincible. Everything had a weakness. He would find it. He had to keep going.


Hyena claws barely doing a dent, the soldier let out a battle cry. These drugged up prisoners, he would return them to their senses. It wasn't over yet. There was a way. They could be broken free and returned to normal. There had to have been a chance, surely. Nothing working for minutes on end, another shout broke the sound barrier.


"Husen, with the power of Focalors at my side, I command you to teach these sinthe addicts a lesson!" Huxian shouted.


"Bixie, with the power of Rex Lapis at my beck and call, I commend you to give these filthy monsters a taste of their own medicine!"


Huxian and Pixiu glowing with energy, four fox tails had soon been behind he spiky haired otter's back. Dragon tail behind Pixiu's the soldier blinked of bewilderment. He sees now, these two have truly woken up. They were no longer the scatterbrained forgetful otters.


They had reached their final form.


Immunities destroyed in a matter of moments, shouts had come the soldier's way. Opening created, the soldier tossed down a flower friend. Providing silent commands to his Windwheel Aster friend, vines had been slapped upon the creatures in front of him. Seeds exploding one after another, the hyena snapped his fingers. He sees now, Hydro and Dendro reacted to one another. Battle drawing to a close, the two otters dropped down onto the ground like rocks. Seeing such the soldier recalled a terrible memory.


The otters, if they were to perish, everyone would forget they ever existed. Was this the end, were they going to pass away? He would forget them, wouldn't he? Fingers shaking, an accidental sign had been questioning. Wordlessly inquiring if they were dead, the Head Nurse shook her head.


"Silly, they're not dead. You humans are so funny sometimes," the Head Nurse said, giggling. "They're just unconscious. They'll be okay."


Hearing such, the soldier could not help but wonder once more. Huxian and Pixiu, if this would be their final breathing moments, would he forget them, too? He was a chimera. He was definitely not immune to the memory erasure of a curse, not a chance in Celestia.


Duke telling him his job is done, the soldier headed for the glass box. Heading back towards the Aquabus and to the Court of Fontaine, the chimera's thoughts bustled. He would forget them if they perished. He would forget all of this. That was a fate worse than death; being forgotten. Would the world forget him, too if he were to perish?


Accidentally bumping into the Ginger Fatui, he had soon been yelled at to watch where he was going. Fontaine boss telling him he's done for today, go back to Snezhnaya now, the hyena sighed. Right, his work was done. He was dismissed for the day. Removing his Teleport Waypoint proxy map from his back pocket, the military barracks waypoint had soon been highlighted.


As the soldier walked through the icy cold hallways, his thoughts raced. Memories were quite the fleeting thing, weren't they? The world could forget him. The world could forget everyone. Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, the chimera let out a sigh. He supposed he knew that already. That's how it was.


Wave of tiredness immediately taking over him, the hyena removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Temporary Fortress uniform soon removed, the and glasses put aside, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.


Soon, Fontaine will be forgotten, too.

 

[Palamon]

39. Court Case Finale: A Whale Of A Case

"It's almost over, I


Know everything
Now. There is not
One thing I don't.
Well, I suppose that's not true


Even after I have reached this
Variable, I know there's
Evidentially a slice or so of
Remaining information I have
Yet to learn.
Though, to be
Honest there
Is just a few things I
Need clarification on. Things I just don't quite
Get. And, now, well


Now it is time
Our time to put them down
Will I finally take them out?


I don't know,
That all depends on their strength


I guess. They are far
Stronger than me


Or, so I believe, they are
Very much more powerful than me.
Everything I have ever
Removed from them is monsters


From their various escapades
One, two, hundreds
Removed by countless.


They've been around two
Hundred fifty years, huh
Eons. No, no two


And a half centuries.
But, their crimes have been realized
Yes, every
Single one. Every
Single one has been catalogued. It's
All over, this is the end
Left, and center it's time to


Get behind bars
And their time here has reached its
Zenith. It all
Ends here. It's
Likely all ordained.
Likely all decided
Everything is decided
So, it's time to end


It. Time to destroy


All shall change
Maybe when this is


All over, this
Will finally be when
All goes back to normal.
Regular. It'll all be fine
Everything after this will be


Over. No more
Floating points.


All has been revealed, I'd
Like to think it a
Loss for


Them now.
How will Fontaine
Even hope to recover from this?
I don't know,I don't think
Recovery is possible


Could it take years?
Relatively speaking
I don't know.
Maybe recovery will take
Eons. Ah, no that's
Surely not it.


Aha, why would it be? Of course
Not. I highly
Doubt that it


Will take eons.
How could it?
Obviously not.


That's an exaggeration.
Ha, how many people were
Eaten by that thing I saw
Yesterday while on diplomatic affairs?


That force? How many were
Removed? I don't know,
Ultimately it's impossible to I
Literally know nothing
Yes, I know very little.


All and all, they will be
Removed, with all problems
Erased. It's over


The end of the road
Here's to their defeat.
I won't let them get away
So, line up, the


Time has come
I will win,
Mark my words
Everything finally


Is ending.


Why it took six months
I hardly know it's
Like a river,
Like a stream


Time is unfortunately
Always marching on, I
Know I have failed many times made many
Errors. So many mistakes


That's just
How it is
Even so, this is the climax.
Mark my words, they will meet their


Doom. This will all be
Over, soon it
Will all end
Nothing will remain. They


Might think they're
All that but they are
Retched trash.
Know this, Kelebek and Izzet, the


Millions of hours of crimes
You have done?


Will be judged. It's
Over. It's over,
Remove yourselves. No more
Deception. No more of your
Stains. It's over, here and now."


Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a wheel of torture, flipping the board every single evening that was possible. Such spin would continue to reverse on an endless loop. The night before him would continue the pattern, as well.


Before him had been a field of forget-me-nots. The flowers bright blue, with a yellow center. But, beside them had been a sight of horror. Pool of blood spelling out, do not forget you are about to see the chimera could feel a heavy wave of nervousness. Don't forget? Don't forget what?


Seating himself by the unsightly stain, the chimera could not help but wonder. Just what exactly could he have possibly forgotten? Tilting his dream head, absolutely nothing useful came to him. Dream head completely empty, he stared off into nothingness. If he had forgotten, perhaps it wasn't all that important.


But, the messages soon continued. Grass bleeding once more, a new warning soon appeared out in the open. Message spelling out, don't forget what they did, the chimera scratched his head. Don't forget who what did? He was not quite following. As he thought such, however, something even more unusual happened.


Forget-me-not in the center of the field growing legs, a wave of shock flowed through the chimera. What was going on? Why had one of the flowers acquired limbs? What kind of dream was this? But, he supposed the land of not reality always had incomprehensible tricks up its sleeve. Steam puffing out of the plant's petals, the peculiarities cranked the dial up to five.


"Man, you're hopeless! You haven't figured it out yet?" the forget-me-not asked in an annoyed tone. "Follow me!"


Flower dashing up ahead, the hyena stood upward. Pitch black world of nothing in front of him, the confusion kept on going. Where in the world was this forget-me-not taking him? Walking through the pitch black world of nothing for quite awhile, a question repeated itself once more.


What could it have possibly been that he had forgotten? Was it something important? Surely, it was something he did not need to recall in the dream world. Flower shouting at him from afar to try and keep up, the chimera blinked. Keep up with where? The world was black.


Such darkness had soon dyed itself in blood. Abyssal gazelles off to the side holding Noctilucous Jade, the chimera's subconscious knees buckled. Chimeras glaring at him with a sinister look, the mineral had soon been inserted inside him will full force. As such occurred, a memory flowed through him. But, as such did, the questions flowed through.


Hooded strangers did that to him? How could they do such a thing, and why couldn't he remember? Had his brain erased such from from his cerebrum? He supposed such could have been the case. Memories were quite the fickle thing that faded over time. Scene soon vanishing, the forget-me-not glared daggers at him.


"Don't forget what they did to Fontaine," the forget-me-not said, moving forward.


Forget-me-not soon soon leading him off towards a long tunnel, the hyena's thoughts had begun to rumble once more. The abyssal gazelles, they had committed quite a lot of crimes, hadn't they? He did not know why, but everything had begun to feel quite hazy.


Tunnel getting longer, the chimera stared off into dream space. How could he allow himself to forget the things that the abyssal gazelles have done? They had done various horrific things. But, he knew the dream world and waking world were completely separate entity from one another.


Finding himself in front of a workshop, the chimera tilted his head. When had he ever been to a workshop like this? He could not recall coming to such a place at any point in any point at time. Could this have been someone else's past? Perhaps, just maybe, such had been the case.


Kelebek soon walking into the workshop, something of particular note screamed out to the hyena. Hooded stranger partaking in the alchemical arts, the soldier backed four steps away. What in the world was one doing? Fake Melusine soon beside one, a wave of shock flowed through him.


Villain sending one's creation out into the world, the hyena scratched the side of his head. Why was it beginning to get hazier? This scene, he hardly recalled it. Memories, they had to have worked differently here, for sure. Flower soon calling out to him once more, he snapped himself out of it.


"Keep following," the forget-me-not said in an irritated tone. "And try not to forget too much, alright?"


Following along, another scene of horror he hardly recognized played out in front of the chimera. Hooded strangers taking over an Adeptus, and wrecking all havoc imaginable, not a single thing made any sense. Just what were these two's goal? He could not quite figure it out.


Next scene showcasing the abyssal gazelles worming themselves into the Eremites, the soldier could feel the questions begin to intensify. These two just where were they really from? Not a single thing whatsoever was making any sense. Everything was dull, like a rusty pin.


Scene of intense bloodshed playing out in front of him, the hyena shook his head. Hadn't this all been in the past? Why did any of this matter now? They had acclimated to the top of the order many years prior. What did this mean to him? Absolutely nothing. It was not like he could go back into the past and change anything.


"Yes, it does matter," the forget-me-not said. "They have to be stopped."


Hearing such, the hyena flinched. This flower, it can hear his thoughts? How was that even possible? Throwing such thoughts off a bridge, the flower soon told him it could indeed hear his thoughts. Such fact confirmed, bewilderment threw the chimera for a loop. This was nothing more than a dream. Of course it did not make any sense.


"I have one more thing to show you," the forget-me-not said, walking off towards the side.


Moving towards the left, the final scene soon played itself out to the chimera. Kelebek and Izzet soon beside a large whale, he swore he could hear them both shout it was time for the prophecy. Falling to his knees, his inquiries rolled the dice. What were they talking about? What prophecy? What could they possibly be planning?


Whiffing up a simulated scent of fire, the chimera looked downward. Pants set ablaze, the doom chime tolled. Fire soon swallowing him whole, the the hyena's dream life halted in a matter of moments. Breathing his last dream breath, his last thoughts spelled out a charred message upon the grass beneath him.


Was he not supposed to see that last scene?


Forbidden knowledge runs deep.


***


"Every single one of my sister's customers has been
Vaporized. They're all gone.
Every single one,
Removed from existence.
You know, I am usually
One of the realists. I
Never truly believe in the delusions
Earl always seems to fall for.


However, even I, Baron when faced with the
Absolute unknown, you could
Say that my


Brain just isn't working.
Every single person today has
Gone and become a puddle,
Unless we are all in a collective dream. There must be a logical reason for this.
No, I guess that


This world right
Out in front of me is reality.


Malika has lost all hope.
Everything is
Looking to be hopeless.
There is no hope,


Is there?


How very unlike me,
At this point in time, I cannot
Verify anything.
Earl seems quite


Terrified. Even though were never truly from here, so
Of course, we are completely immune to this melting phenomenon.


Guess I just do not quite fathom this
Especially ridiculous outcome.
There is no sense to be here.


Of course, there has been a seemingly
Unlimited amount of nonsense going on around
The block lately.


Over the course of six months, we have been investigating.
For what it's worth, we


Have discovered an
Endless amount of evidence.
Revealing evidence.
Evidence that could


Soon be incriminating.
However, My portion in all this is hardly
Enough, nor will it ever be.
Look, I have uncovered a multitude of information,
There is a lot to say and
Endless streams of points
Relating to one


Singular group
Of people.
Maybe one will remember if I
Explain it just for a moment.
Would you look at that? It's those
Horned losers,
Everything that has happened
Relates back to them,
Everything that has occured


Comes back to them. There is
Likely not a single
Other party involved.
So, there is not need to go on an
Endless chase for answers that shall never come.


Until they are caught,
Perhaps I


Should lead them on.
However, it would seem they are
Omnipotent.
Perhaps that sounds unrealistic, but


There is some truth behind it.
How I reached this conclusion?
Eh. You shall see soon enough.


And, of course, I could,
Perhaps, be wrong, but I do not think I am.
Of course, I prefer to see things from a realistic approach.
Come on, by now
All should not that. I am a realistic, Earl is a dreamer. The waters are
Lukewarm. More people have begun melting,
Yet there is hardly a source to track back to.
Perhaps, hunting such
Source at this point in time would be ill advised.
Even so,


I really ought to.
Something is far from right


Here. Nothing is adding up. Nothing is
Equal. And, it should be equal,
Reality is cracking, and I cannot be realistic.
Everything is breaking, and I cannot be rational."


Four days have passed since the chimera freed the Fontaine citizens from their cube prison. Work only getting stranger, the soldier had been tasked with dealing with various tasks within the Fortress of Meropide and surrounding areas. But, the peculiarities had only continued to increase as the ninety-six hours pressed on.


Multiple labyrinths uncovered deep within the underwater trenches, various facts about the abyssal gazelles had been swallowed up by a sea of whirlpools. Countless point clumping together to reveal the whole truth, the soldier understood everything now. He knew all there was to know. Absolutely everything. But, the stream of information only continued.


Forgetful otter twins having an intense reawakening when the situation had reached a dire point of no return, the soldier had soon learned various facts about the Huxian and Pixiu, as well. Final stages throwing themselves out into the open, turning back had become impossible. Diplomatic affairs of nothing overtaking the fourth and final day, normalcy attempted to return.


The sound of morning alarm bells shrieked for the entire country to hear. As the alarm bells made their rampage known, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in an echo. The alarm bells were right on time in punctuality, as usual. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.


The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially tormented slumber. Horrors looping back and forth, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had won't leave his partially human mind. But, the chimera snapped himself out if it. Dreams were a fabrication of the mind. Removing himself from the uncomfortable bed, the soldier had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.


As the hyena's uniform glued itself to his partially human person, he could not help but wonder. The abyssal gazelles, just how much have they done to Teyvat in the past two hundred fifty years? How much damage have they caused to this world? But, the hyena threw such thoughts off a bridge. There was no way to ever determine such. They had committed various crimes. There was no way to know every single one.


Closing his eyes for a brief moment, memories flashed through the soldier's mind. Multiple past events linked their hands together. Tears streaming down his face, the room blurried. Why couldn't this all just stop? Taking a deep breath, the soldier forced himself back on track. All of that was in the past. He had to move towards the present at all costs.


Taking one last deep breath, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning his second favorite rabbit hairpins in his hair and ears, the chimera could feel a wave of nervousness flow through him. He did not know why, but, he definitely needed to wear this set today, no matter what.


Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena stared at his Geo Delusion in the corner. The sinister orb, should he make use of it today? But, the hyena rapidly shook his head. Now was not the time. Pushing it away, the delusion was out of sight, out of mind.


Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the hyena stared off into space. What's going to happen today? The last part of the dream, it had been quite worrisome. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. Dreams were a fabrication of the imagination. He needed to let this all go.


Hearing the louder than ever before militaristic boots march onward with a fervor, the soldier scratched his head. Was it just him, or had the steps sounded far more frantic than normal? Surely, it had to have been his imagination. Turning his face towards the door, everything continued to make little sense. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier put on the most diplomatic face possible. What orders could possibly await him today?


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue, but his voice was frantic. "The prophecy is about to arrive in Fontaine. You must clean up the mess." His words then changed course. "You will also be finding evidence of the crimes of those who have been interfering with Her Majesty's plans."


The chimera jumped ten steps back upon hearing the term the prophecy. His heart was ready to leap out of his chest at any given moment. The prophecy is here? What prophecy? He did not understand one little bit. This was not good. Was the Nation of Justice collapsing? What was going on?


Dream flashing through his mind once more, the chimera flinched. Could what he have seen in the subconscious world have been a warning about the abyssal gazelles? That had to have been the case. There was nothing else it could have been. But, he had soon been dragged back into reality.


"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be cleaning up that mess the prophecy is leaving behind! Get a move on!"


The hyena flinched. Right, there was hardly any time to waste. He was on the nonexistent clock right now. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena placed his arm out in front of him. Right, no more dawdling. The time to leave was now.


"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. He knew he had no choice in the matter.


"Good, we're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, he gripped the limb into a firm grasp tight enough to bruise. "You need to be careful, there are floods everywhere. Try to not get drifted away." Escort soon beginning, the chimera stared off into space.


There was a flood?


The final showdown was coming.


***


"I can't watch this


Anymore. I,
Malika, have reached a


Critical breaking point. I mustn't
Let anyone see me like this.
Onwards to boarding everything up
So no one can come
In. I write up a sign,
'No entry, the Congele Boutique is temporary closed.'
Guess that will do.


Up the sign goes. The wooden
Planks attempt to collapse,


So I screw them tighter. I
Have locked myself in. There is no getting
Out. It is better this way. I will not see all those
Puddles. It might be out of


Character for me to turn
A blind eye like this, but there is
Nothing I can do.
Nothing to prevent this.
Of course
There isn't, this has been a long time coming, and I


Keep hearing that the prophecy is here. It's the
End. It's all over.
Everyone in Fontaine will be reduced to water.
Perhaps I should have done something sooner.


Maybe had I, this would not have happened,
Yet, I know this is
Something that had always been far beyond my control.
Earl, Baron, and I were are not Fontaine natives. We will
Likely not be melted into puddles.
For now, I will


Close up shop.
Of course, I do not want to,
Maybe I really shouldn't.
Perhaps this is a terrible idea,
Of course, I know all that
Something just isn't adding up
Even if this is the prophecy I
Do not have the power


In me to deal with it. I am
Not saying, 'I am not from Fontaine,


This is not my problem, rather, 'I do not
Have the power to stop
It.' This force is far too
Strong for me.


Someone is going to tell me,
I shouldn't give up.
This is not like me. But, sometimes it's is better safe than sorry. I know it is
Unlike me,
And I know this is running away.
That's the only way to see this,
I know it is wrong, people are melting.
Of course I know it's wrong, but
Nothing can be done."


Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint as usual, the hyena stared off at the lake in the corner. Water levels reaching a danger point, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. What was happening here? The floods had already reached beyond the harbor?


Dragged down the mountain before he could think any further, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Waves slapping his feet, he gazed upward. There had not been a cloud in the sky. What in the world was going on here? Nothing was at all adding up. Where could this flood have come from if there is no rain?


Agent demanding he pay attention, the chimera flinched. Right, he had to pay attention. Placed into the wooden vessel, the waves had begun to slap him on repeat. Keeping himself still, the soldier stared at the river at front of him. The river was too high. This wasn't normal, for sure.


Reaching Romaritime Harbor before he even knew it, another wave slapped the soldier into submission. Pants soaked to the bone, the early adult broke out into a shiver. But, he did not have time to shake such water away whatsoever. Dragged towards the staircase, an annoying reminder had come his way.


Agent telling him for what felt like the octodecillionth time to not teleport anywhere whatsoever, the hyena wanted to rip out entire strands of his hair. It had been a dangerous flood all around right now, couldn't there be an exception during such a destructive time? How many more times was he going to hear it before he got sick of saying it?


Satchel soon slapped onto his backside, another warning had come his way. The sound of silence engulfed the hyena. Not a single soul had been around whatsoever. Agent soon exiting the area, water soon engulfed his feet. But, something had not been right about the liquid.


Bed of water underneath him tinted a deep shade of purple, the early adult shook with a fervor. Something just wasn't right here. But, he knew he had to move along. There was hardly any time to worry about this. He had to move on. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena ascended the staircase.


Water following behind him, the early adult's legs erupted into a sprint. He didn't know why, but something about this water was wrong. Was it poisonous? It had to have been. Dashing off towards the glass lift, the door shut itself tight. But, the flood quickly struck back.


Flood up to his legs, the soldier attempted to brave the waves. How was this even possible? Wasn't Fontaine an elevated nation? Something wasn't quite adding up here. Pressing the button to summon the Aquabus, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Would the vessel even come by in such conditions? There was no way.


Aquabus eventually arriving, there had been no Melusine tour guide to greet him. Seeing such, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. Where was Aeval? Maybe he should just turn around. But, he knew he could not go back. He had a job to do. There was no turning back, no matter what.


Mechanical voice welcoming him aboard the Aquabus, the hyena grit his teeth. Robotic protocol asking him if he wished to hear the tour, a small screen had soon appeared out of nowhere. Pressing the no button, the chimera seated himself. The voice was cold, unwelcoming.


As the vessel cruised onward in an automatic motion, purple waves crashed onto the soldier with full force. Feeling such, the young soldier placed his hands over his knees. Just what was wrong with the water today? Something was off about it, for sure. What kind of toxins had been inside? He would need to investigate further, for sure.


Aquabus rocking back and forth, the chimera let out a scream. The boat, it was swaying, moving, ready to break at any given moment. But, the hyena kept himself as still as possible. If he were to move too much, he would be a floating corpse upon the river.


Reaching the capital city of Fontaine after a short while, the soldier swore he could hear screams coming from the background. Mechanical voice telling everyone to disembark the vehicle in an orderly fashion, the hyena hopped off with all his might. There was no time to follow the rules, he had to get out of here.


Knowing it was in his best interest to head off towards the northern exit of Fontaine, the chimera prepared himself for the worst. Streets almost completely submerged, the soldier winced as he walked forward. Just how far had the flood already reached? Hearing another scream off in the distance, the hyena made haste.


Moving along, the screams had only begun to worsen. Not seeing a single soul around, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Had there been a ghost here? But, the hyena shook his head. No, that could not have been it. Why would it have been? He had been making assumptions.


Screams only getting louder, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Where in the world were those shouts coming from? The hyena had no idea. The city had usually been calm. Purple liquids swallowing his legs as he moved forward, he had soon come across the source of the scream.


Rich nobody feet deep in the water, the soldier swore he could see the person's torso dissolving into absolutely nothing. Human being nothing but a gelatin blob in a matter of seconds, the early adult's eyes had begun to twitch. What just happened did that person just melt? No. He had to have imagined that just now.


Turning his head off towards the opposite direction, the soldier could feel his heart race. Did he really just witness someone melt? But, the hyena shook his head. No, that didn't happen. He's daydreaming. Human beings cannot dissolve into puddles of water. That wasn't possible.


Water only beginning to creep up higher, the chimera attempted with all his might to remain steady as the northern pathway dragged onward. Legs almost completely gone from sight, the hyena knew he had to hold on. He could not drift away like this. There was a job to be done.


Hearing more screams off in the distance, the early adult attempted to tune everything out from around him. There had been far too much unrest here. Didn't the rich nobodies have something to prevent them from dealing with the flooded world around them? But, he supposed not everyone had the time to prepare for imminent disaster.


Adventurer Guild receptionist blurting out short circuiting, the early adult dashed off past her. What was she even doing here? Couldn't she comb through her programming or something to avoid Fontaine? Whoever had made this robot had chosen very poorly. Sparks flying everywhere, the hyena jumped off towards the other lane.


But things had only begun to spiral the further he had gone. Very few people around screaming the apocalypse was here, they're all going to disappear, the chimera's ears burned. The apocalypse? He didn't sign up for this. Why were people being so overdramatic. But, he swore as he thought such, a pot somewhere had been calling the kettle black.


Possibly poisonous water submerging his knees the further he walked, the soldier turned his attention towards the Chioriya Boutique. Large sign outside in large bubble letters reading closed, the hyena did a quintuple take. Was he reading that correctly? There had to be some mistake.


Door completely boarded up, the chimera shrugged. Maybe he was seeing things correctly. Moving along, the hyena prepared himself for the worst case scenario. Legs feeling like they were ready to float away, the soldier closed his eyes. If he were to fall into this water now, it was game over. He would be dead, a goner, off to the next world.


Hedges completely submerged, the chimera could feel himself ready to wilt at any given moment. Hydro had overtaken Dendro, what a nightmare. Wasn't too much water catastrophic for plant life? He should have known such fact. Running, the hyena leaped forward. He needed to get out of here right now.


But, the further west he went, the more screams that followed. Watching as multiple generic nobodies dissolving into puddles of water, the chimera swore the water levels had only gotten higher. Why were people melting? What was going on here? Not a single thing was making sense.


More people melting into puddles of nothing, the soldier blinked. Why was this still happening? Was he dreaming? Nothing felt real. Maybe he had fallen asleep on the Aquabus. That had to have been it, surely. He was dreaming right now. This was all too ridiculous to be true.


Slapping himself, the soldier hissed. He was most certainly awake right now. This was all real, for sure. More people becoming nothing but a puddle as he moved along, he couldn't help but wonder. What was causing this? There had to have been a reason. He had to investigate before pressing on further.


Finding an unusual device seated in his bag practically begging him to use it, the soldier studied it, for a moment. Small object labelled the water tester in Snezhnayan writing, the chimera could feel sweat pour down his brow. The what now? Her Majesty was just making up names at this point.


Dropping the small robotic device in the water, the early adult shivered. This would not go well, for sure. Hearing a loud ding, the early adult read the message that appeared in front of him. But the words the appeared in front of him levelled the confusion playing field to the highest possible degree.


Seeing the words primordial seawater, the chimera read the words in front of him once more. The what now? What was that again? The chimera had no idea. Had he ever heard of such a thing before? He did not know why, but he couldn't recall. His memory was fuzz.


Another group of generic nobodies dissolving into nothing, the chimera's knees had become jelly. This primordial sea water, did it have the power to destroy a Fontaine native in an instant? How was that even possible? But, as he kept moving further ahead, another dooming question did a fusion dance inside him.


Fontaine born chimeras, and the Melusines, would this water dissolve them, as well? If such were the case, the entire country was in trouble, guaranteed. He knew if the Iudex were around in his office, he would have to inquire about it. There was not normal whatsoever.


Very few rich nobodies remaining crying about the temporary closure of Chioriya Boutique, the soldier could not help but wonder. Hadn't the owner of that clothing establishment been from the closed off nation of Inazuma? Would this special water even affect her? But, he supposed it was better to be safe than sorry.


Fashion deeply rooted into his mind, the chimera could not help but think. The Congele boutique, maybe he should check up on it, too. Water levels only beginning to raise the further he went, the early adult prepared himself to move towards the southern streets.


Multiple people continuing to melt away, the soldier turned his head off towards the opposite direction. He could not look anymore. Just how many people had he seen melt today? He didn't know. He had already lost count at this point. Shouts getting worse, the hyena drowned everything out.


Population dropping like flies, the city had soon fallen completely silent. Nothing stirring, fear ate the soldier up like a plate of macarons. Had everyone already been melted? If this water were the boss, it would definitely be the final one, for sure. Throwing such thoughts away, the penguin fashion establishment was drawing ever so closer.


Drifting away across the dangerous bed of liquid, the chimera flapped for dear life. Eventually breaking loose, the hyena huffed a breath. If the water level to raise any higher, he would need to change into his diving suit, right away. Pressing on, he had soon reached the Congele boutique, but disappointment soon awaited him.


"Gone fishing," the sign in front of him said.


Door boarded up, the soldier could not help but feel a heavy wave of disappointment. Wasn't Malika usually the type of person to help people in a time of crisis? Running and hiding was definitely unlike her, for sure. But, he knew there was nothing wrong with trying to keep herself and her family safe from harm. But, he had soon recalled something.


Memory flowing back as he ascended the staircase, the soldier stared off at the boutique once more. Wasn't Malika from Snezhnaya? What was she so afraid of? This water would not melt her. Throwing such thoughts away, the soldier shrugged his shoulders. It was time to move on and leave the city. There was no time to worry about the pesky penguin family.


Silence continuing to eat him alive as the aquabus information station drew ever so closer, the emptiness of the city readied to swallow him whole. The rich, the poor, no one was safe from the primordial seawater, were they? No furry creatures around as well, even more dooming questions threw themselves onto the playing field.


Fontaine born cats, dogs and birds, would primordial seawater erase them, too? Knowing such could have been a possibility, the chimera's heart had turned to stone. If any had survived and drifted away, he would need to rescue them even if it were impossible.


Fountain in the corner completely overflowed, the early adult watched in horror as the final person clinging on for life melted into a puddle of nothing. Taking a deep breath, the hyena ascended the staircase. He needed to get out of here as fast as he could. Time was ticking.


Not a single soul inside the Aquabus Information Station, the soldier moved through the emptiness. There was no around, so there was no one to give information to. Heading off towards the glass lift, the hyena prepared himself to bid farewell to the nothingness around him.


Glass lift doors closed, a face he did not wish to see under any circumstance soon emerged from the opened chambers. Earl hopping out of the elevator, the chimera let out a barely audible groan. Why was he here? Wasn't he supposed to cooping himself up in the Congele Boutique cowering with his family, or something? If this pesky penguin and he were the last two people alive in Teyvat, he'd rather melt in the primordial seawater.


Eyes soon on him, the chimera attempted to avert eye contact. Could this pest move out of the way already? He had no interest in dealing with him right now, whatsoever. Attempting to move past him he worse he could feel a hand grab him tight. Gritting his teeth, he had been forced to say put.


Seeing his future husband heading for the elevator, Earl could hear the death bells ring in his head. What was Siorc doing here right now? He should go back home base in Snezhnaya right away! It's way too dangerous to be walking around the city. He needed to let him know he should leave before it was too late.


"Hi there, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "What are you doing here? It's dangerous! You need to turn back right now!"


The chimera rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. If he had the option to run, he would have by now. But, such was not an option. Prying himself free, he distanced himself. Would telling him he has to investigate the damage the abyssal gazelles caused make him go away? Stepping towards the glass lift, ice soon engulfed his shoulder.


"I have to investigate the fawns, sir," the hyena said in a serious tone. "Please, move out of my way." Stepping towards the glass lift, he readied to press the button, but further screams had come his way.


"Those fawns are responsible for this!" Earl cried. "You shouldn't go out there you'll fall right into their trap!" But his shouts when unheard.


Glass lift doors closing, the hyena pressed the button for the fourth floor. As the box went upward, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Of course they were the ones that caused all of this, could it have been any more obvious? Who else could have been responsible? He could not think of anyone else that could have been.


Water pouring into the elevator as it passed the second and third floor, the chimera jumped back towards the opposite door. Was the flood getting worse? This wasn't good, leaning against the glass he held in every single scream building inside him. He was going to get zapped guaranteed. Any second now.


Reaching the fourth floor, the hyena made a run for it. But, the world around him soon crumbled. Entire sidewalk flooded here like the rest of the city, the soldier could feel the confusion come full circle. How was it even possible for the seawater to come this high? Something was off here, very off.


Multiple generic nobodies melting as they tried running away, the chimera dashed off towards the city's exit. The ancient seawater, it was relentless, uncaring, deadly. Just what was in it that causing everyone to be dissolved? He didn't know. He would need to investigate it whenever he were to get the chance.


Wave following behind him as he walked through the city's exit, the chimera sped up his running speed. This water, something was wrong with it. Did it have a mind of its own? It had to have been. Speeding up slightly faster, the hyena leaped into the glass lift. But, the tidal wave was relentless.


Glass box sparking as it reached the northern outskirts of the city, the hyena's knees buckled. If the Iudex were to see the damages that had occurred, the Fatui would be labelled as responsible for such, guaranteed. But, he supposed that wasn't his problem right now. Tingling as he exited, static clung to his uniform.


Knowing that, at any given moment, the bird bounty hunter duo would pin him down as the perpetrator for the ongoing destruction, the chimera kept his eye and ears open. Any second now, and they would go after him. Stepping foot on the grass he took a deep breath. It was investigation time.


But, what awaited him in the northern Court of Fontaine area had been quite the disgusting sight to behold. Flooded waters a dark shade of toxic purple, trash floated around in the brand new lake. Hearing warfare up towards the sky, as well, the chimera proceeded with caution. If they were to see him, it was game over.


Spotting an army of Abyss Mages floating around from every corner, the early adult held back a growl. Why was the abyss everywhere he was? Had the abyssal gazelles commanded them to cause problems wherever they went? How annoying. He hardly had the time to deal with them right now.


Trashy bacteria screaming at him, the soldier searched high and low for a way to destroy it. No devices around for such possibility to exist, the hyena let out a sigh. Diving equipment gloved slapped on, the only option was upon him. Pressing the Xenochromatic Octopus button, he closed his eyes, for a moment.


Sharpshooting the bacteria with all his might for minutes on end, it did not get cleansed of its germs whatsoever. Seeing such, the soldier blinked. What was happening here? Why wasn't it going away? Maybe he wasn't pressing hard enough. That had to have been the case, surely.


Pressing the button down even harder, disgusting purple germ remained. Seeing such, the soldier remained vigilant. Was this really happening right now? Could the power of his glove be entirely useless here? If that was the case, nothing could be done. He had to move on.


But, the soldier refused to surrender. What was he doing, trying to give up already? How pathetic of him. He wasn't a quitter. There was no way he could give up that easily. He had to remove this bacteria, at all costs. If Her Majesty had heard he had given up, he was as good as dead. Disappointment could not reach Her Majesty's ears, no matter what.


Letting out a scream, the hyena kept going. Surely, if he kept trying, eventually, all of this would be cleansed. He knew he would have to keep going, no matter what. Such was the only option. Aiming at the center of the bacteria, it slowly had begun to turn green after ten attempts one after another.


First round of bacteria cleansed, the soldier swore he could hear the robed denizens laughing from afar. Hearing such, the hyena prepared himself for another upcoming battle. This had to have been their doing, for sure. There was no one else that could have possibly been responsible.


Struggle only continuing as the hyena's cleansing session kept going, the laugher had only gotten louder. These monsters, were they making fun of him from afar? They had to have been. Attempting will all his might to tune their guffaws out, the cycle continued.


Hearing an array of laughter coming from behind him, the chimera's back had soon been target practice. Elemental attacks hitting him one after another, the early adult jumped six steps back. But, he had soon been cornered from every single angle imaginable. Monsters pointing and laughing, the hyena let out a growl. Four against one? How incredibly obnoxious.


Arrow barrage coming from up above, the hyena ran off towards the next pathway. There was more than one opponent here. He needed to watch his head. Strangely shaped green weapons tossing them around as well, the soldier sped up his running speed. He had been spotted, he needed to move.


Mages screaming upwards towards the sky, the early adult sifted through his satchel for a moment. There was no way he could leave this all to the bounty hunters. But, absolutely nothing awaited him in the bag. No weapon to speak of whatsoever, the hyena flinched. He had no greatsword, no weapon, nothing.


Weapon barrage from the sky above continuing, the soldier kept running with all his might. Pressing the jellyfish head button upon his diving equipment glove, the hyena attempted to blow the creatures to smithereens. Surely, this had to work. But, the failures kept rolling the dice one after another.


Nothing coming out, a sea of questions threw the chimera for a loop. Why wasn't his glove working? Had most of the functionality only worked underwater? What a waste. Knowing his only option were to run, the chimera pulled a fast one. Germy waters soon returning full circle, the next cleansing session soon began.


Bacterial contamination slowly becoming easier to cleanse, the soldier swore he could hear the Mages scream in unison. But, the early adult tuned it out. Did these monsters think this would enough to throw him off? Such was far from the case. He would keep going, at all costs.


Final set of germs finally taken out of the picture, the enemies had begun to drop like flies. Paper soon dropping downward, the chimera could hardly believe what he was reading. Pieces of a map dropping downward the early adult rolled his eyes towards the sky. What was this, another gift from the hooded strangers? He wasn't buying what they were selling.


But, as the hyena attempted to rip the papers up, the destruction soon reversed itself. Seeing such, the soldier shook his head. What was this, immortal? Throwing the paper, he kept on moving. He had no time for these games. He had to keep cleaning the messes about.


Paper raining onto his head once more, the hyena let out a growl. Waving the white flag, he gazed at the leaflet of Dendro creation. Crude drawing of a door, and treasure crudely misspelled, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What was this, a treasure hunt? He didn't have time for this.


Even more paper flittering into his hands, a warning message had soon been gifted to him. Paper demanding he seek out the treasure, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. He was at the mercy of the script. Bed of toxic liquid forming an array of arrows, the early adult forced himself to follow along.


Trail leading him off towards Mt. Esus East, the early adult let out a gulp. The mountains were the bird bounty hunter's territory. If he were within their line of sight, he was the next bounty, guaranteed. But, perhaps, just maybe, they would leave him be for today. Domain getting closer with every step, the soldier took a long deep breath. Mountains soon reached, the hyena could hear a ferocious wing flag from up above. But, what awaited him layered in a brand new level of confusion.


"Fatui, consider yourself lucky!" Robin shouted from up above, pointing. "I'm calling a temporary truce! But, don't get used to it! It won't last!" But, another voice soon followed.


"Fatui, I'd run if I were you, before my boyfriend changes his mind," Raven warned.


Leaping towards the door, a blinding light soon engulfed him, Closing his eyes, for a moment, an unusual place soon awaited him when he opened them once more. Finding himself in a desert temple in an empty world with not a single soul to speak of, the chimera scouted the area, for a moment.


Peering outside the entrance, for a moment, nothing but sand had been around for kilometers, seeing such, the hyena blinked. What treasure was about to await him? Whatever it could have possibly been, it had to tie back to the abyssal gazelles. There was no way that wasn't the case. It had to have been, for sure.


Weapon rack off in the corner, a desert greatsword soon awaited the hyena. Sheathing it from behind him, the soldier prepared himself. What treasure could possibly await him? Whatever it was, he it was definitely nothing good whatsoever. This had to have been a trap, for sure.


Moving right along, the hyena could hear the familiar giggles of the Abyss Mages up ahead. Hearing such, the hyena placed the claymore in front of him. Had they already been alerted of his presence? He had to have some sort of glowing target on his back, or something.


Doors slamming shut around him, the chimera flinched. Did the robed denizens just lock him in here? How annoying. Dashing off towards the door, it would not budge. Mage shouting from the other side to solve the puzzle to break free, to break free, the early adult rolled his eyes. What was he, the abyss's plaything? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense.


Large tile puzzle dropping down from the ceiling, the early adult backed ten steps away. Was this really happening right now? This was ridiculous. What did the gazelles want from him? Why were their annoying minions playing around with him? But, his thoughts had soon been cut off as the Mage yelled at him to hurry up.


Unusual symbols correlating to a certain pattern, the early adult studied the scribbles, for a moment. This puzzle, just how did it work exactly? He knew he would need to study it intently. But, such moment dried up in seconds. Timer soon appearing on his wrist, the chimera let out a shout. He was being timed? It was over. He was finished, in a loser battle before he could get far.


Banner across the sky informing him to step on the right tiles within the time limit, the timer had begun ticking. Turning his head towards the right and left, the hyena leapt towards the tile in the lower left corner. But, such had been a terrible decision. Sword swinging down from the ceiling, it soon shook hands with his knees.


Shaking, the early adult dashed off towards the bottom right, stepping towards the tile, the blade struck back. Joint decorated a bright crimson, the early adult let out a scream as the counter reset. Was this the treasure he was going to be awarded? If he were to get the pattern wrong again, the damage would progress further, guaranteed.


"You loser, are you that bad at solving puzzles?!" the Mage shouted from afar. "Fine, I'll give you a hint, tic tac, toe!"


Mage screaming nonsense at him, the chimera crossed his arms across his waist. Tic, tac what now? What in the world did that mean? That wasn't helpful at all. But, he had then come to a realization. The tiles, did he have to mark them before hopping upon them? That had to have been the case, surely.


Unsheathing the greatsword from behind him, an o-shape soon appeared in the center of the board. Hopping towards it, he could hear a ding off in the corer. Had he chosen correctly? Maybe he had. He knew the only way to find out for sure was to keep going. Slashing the space diagonal to him, he leaped towards it.


Hearing a ding, the soldier puffed a sigh of relief. Was it really that simple, doing the puzzle in a three by three pattern? Running back toward the first panel, he took a deep breath. This had to work, surely. Leftmost panel soon hit, it had been leaped on with full force, in a matter of moments.


Banner reading challenge complete stretching across the sky, the Abyss Mage had soon been in front of him. Creature soon demanding a fight with him, the early adult flinched. A battle now? Was this really happening? Fontaine was about to flood even further, he didn't have time for these games. Attempting to surrender, an attack had soon been gifted to him.


Bubble of water coming his way, the early adult threw down a flower friend. Silk flower friend dancing upon the battlefield, the mage screeched. Flower brought to life by his Dendro Vision locked into bubble prison, the hyena snapped his fingers. Plant familiar leaving the battlefield, the bubble rain continued.


Flower friend eliminated every step of the way, the chimera snapped his fingers once more. Right, what was he thinking? Small creatures would be trapped in a bubble prison. His only option was to rely on evasiveness. Creature soon taunting him, the hyena jumped towards the left.


Bubbles coming his way, the hyena soon jumped towards the right. But, as he did so, the mage growled. More balls of imprisonment awaiting him, he kept jumping towards the opposite direction. Enemy soon trapped in its own weapon, the chimera's blade soon struck gold.


Mage soon defeated in a matter of moments, a concrete tile had soon dropped from the creature's last remains. Seeing such, the early adult rolled his eyes once more. What was this supposed to be? The treasure he had won? Two more tiles dropping downward, a message soon burned itself upon the ground.


Message informing him that all the people born from Fontaine were born from sin that could not be removed, the soldier blinked. What in the world did that mean? Everyone that had been born in Fontaine was a sinner? Surely, that was merely an exaggeration. The mages were messing with him, for sure.


Second tablet reading that the waters in Fontaine would one day rise and all the sinners would dissolve into water, the chimera put two and two together. The prophecy had already started. The people of Fontaine had already been gone. Coming to such realization, Had it been too late?


Final tablet leaving a message that only the Hydro Archon would remain weeping on her throne, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. The Hydro Archon, where was she during all this chaos? Her people were melting. Why hadn't he come across her today at all? Studying the plaques again one more time, the questions piled themselves up against the wall.


The prophecy, if it had already started, why wasn't anyone doing anything about it? But, he supposed it had come far too fast for anyone to deal with it properly. Could that have been it? He supposed it could have been the case. Lines of the doom to followed, he could not help but wonder. Was everyone in Fontaine truly a sinner?


Leaving the room, an usual demand had soon come the hyena's way. Mages shouting at him to race them and they'll give up the next treasure, they dropped themselves down to the ground. Seeing such, the soldier scratched his head. These robed denizens were rather unusual, for sure.


Mages soon running through the desert temple at lightning speed, the hyena attempted to catch up to them. Speeding up as he approached them, the hyena let out a huff. Why were these robed creatures playing games with him? He did not have time for this. But, as he though such, they soon sped up their running speed.


Knowing he had no time to waste, the soldier brushed his feet across the sand. Max speed reached after about twelve seconds, the mages had soon been sped by. Enemies upon the running battlefield hitting a wall, they had soon surrendered. But, the treasure that awaited him at the end of the corridor was terror upon the sand stream.


Abyssal gazelles feeding a large blue whale with a purple underbelly and long, piercing horn, the chimera flinched. What in the world was that thing? He did not know why, but he could feel a heavy wave of unease flow through him. Hiding off towards the corner, the abyssal gazelles soon spoke their truth.


"Nyahahaha, once we unleash this All Devouring Narwhal," Izzet said, laughing. "We will finally have our revenge on those wretched sinners who think they own this country!"


"And, with this, Fontaine will belong to us!" Kelebek shouted, also laughing.


Abyss Mages laughing, the soldier did not feel a single wave of shock. That big horned whale was going to devour all? Color him completely not shocked. That was their plan all along? He had already stopped their plans to take the world with him so many times over. There was no way they would succeed this time, either.


Mages soon glaring at him, a door had soon appeared in front of him. Bolstered out the exit with a snap of the fingers, the soldier blinked as the domain disappeared into thin air. What was that all about? Something wasn't right here under any circumstance. Had he learned too much? Perhaps that was case.


Knowing he had to keep investigating, the soldier soon thought back to where he had learned more information about the abyssal gazelles. Recalling he had come across various facts about them around the Research Institute, the hyena moved towards the bridge. Perhaps this was the next place to begin the cleanup.


But, as the early adult had reached further into Mt. Esus, the entire mountainside had soon fell to the wayside. Everything flipping sideways, inwards, outwards and upside down, the chimera let out a scream. What was this, some penal colony planet with warped space around him? But, the chimera shook his head. Wrong universe.


Attempting to head off towards the bridge, the soldier stood to his feet. But, the sideways world won once again. Trying with all his might to dash off towards the opposite direction, the hyena let out a scream. Why was this still happening? Who was in control of the gravity here?


Lunging towards the bridge the chimera let out a scream. Wobbling as he landed upon the broken walkway, the hyena ran off towards the northeastern area. He had to get out of here and head for the Fontaine Research Institute before it was too late. The flips, however, soon continued.


Road ahead of him spinning and turning, the soldier grit his teeth. What was going on here, was he in some sort of distortion world? But, he threw such thoughts away. He needed to stop letting his imagination run wild like this. He had to brave it all, no matter what were to come his way.


But, another group of challengers had soon arrived on the battlefield. Ruin Guards coming at him fast, the hyena had begun running. Where did these mechanical monsters come from? Something wasn't right here. Hadn't these monsters been a rare sight in Fontaine? Something wasn't right here.


Ruin Guards soon spotting him, bullets had gone a flying. Weapons coming his way, the soldier had begun running. But, there had soon been far more targets on his back than he bargained for. Mechanical beings charging towards him, the chimera kept running. He couldn't let them catch him now, not like this.


As the hyena ramped up his running speed, the bullets had soon come for his backside. Back soon target practice for multiple minutes on end, the chimera could feel his vitality chip away. Continuing to run, the chimera let out a weak huff as his back had been an open dartboard from afar.


Attacks only getting stronger, the hyena could feel the world around him grow smaller. Why did today of all days have to be the day he did not have a weapon on him? The Agent, had he forgotten to arm him? Closing his eyes for a moment, he attempted to transform his currently human hands into hyena paws.


Such transformation never came. Human hand still in front of him, the hyena teeth chattered. He couldn't transform? What was going on here? He was weak, defenseless, target practice. Ruin Guards slamming their feet upon the ground, the chimera kept running. There was no time to hesitate, he had to get out of here.


Southern Research Institute nearby, the soldier could feel an idea hatch into his head. Would leading the mechanical monsters towards the wall be able to end this chase? Figuring such could be the case, he let out a scream. Surely, this would work. Some Ruin machines had a few bolts loose.


Attempting to run towards the mountains, the Ruin Guards leaped once more. Ground shaking, the hyena attempted to keep his balance. But, such failed, in an instant. Quakes continuing, the hyena had been a ball upon the ground for minutes on end. Bullet rain awarded to him once more, the robotic creature's movements had soon gotten far more unusual.


Ruin Guards shuffling their steps, a huge barrage of bullets had soon come the chimera's way. Seeing such, the hyena had come to a realization. The mechanical monsters, they had been acting in accordance to someone else's orders. How unusual. Had someone broken into their internals and been commanding them from afar?


Thoughts soon cut off by another bullet barrage, the early adult had begun running once more. But, such had soon been short lived. Left knee soon awarded metallic arrowheads from afar, the chimera attempted to remove such weapon from his joint. But, such had been a failure. Weapon twisting itself in deeper, the silver ends had soon been dyed red.


Dragging his feet, his right knee had soon been awarded the silver arrowhead, as well, tip lodged in deep, the sea of liquid crimson soon gushed like a fruit snack. Entire backside soon added to the mix as well, the chimera had begun to sway back and forth. Dropping down towards the ground beneath him, he could feel his consciousness about to slip away.


Game over.


He was nothing than target practice.


***


"Where in the world am I?
How did I get here? It's
Eerie here. Someone, please help me in
Regards to where I am right now.
Eh, what is this, where


Am I? And why are the
Melusines all tied up


Into some unusual position where


All their arms and legs are stretched out. That makes
No sense. I
Don't understand.


How did I even get here?
Oh, man the poor Melusines.
Why are they in such a position?


Did I do this? No, of course
I didn't. Why would I and how could I? I
Do not quite remember anything


In the past few hours.


Guess it probably isn't anything
Especially important.
There has to be a reason I am here,


However, I cannot pinpoint it.
Even so, I am suspicious, and I cannot
Rest easy.
Everything has begun to make


Next to no sense,
Of course I am not making any


Sense of any of this
Or rather,
Maybe I just can't because
Everything has gone off
Track for me. I shouldn't
Have let myself keel over.
I should have hung on.
Now, I really don't
Get what's happening.


I think this is just
Some sort of distraction before the climax of the gazelle's revenge, or something.


Why here like this? I
Really, truly don't know.
Of course I don't. I have
No way to predict anything.
Great, this


Has gotten so much worse
Even the unpredictable has
Reached a point of no return.
Even so, I cannot falter. I have to keep going."


Coming to somewhere unknown to him, the soldier observed the area. Soon seeing the familiar purple sky, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. He had been taken to the strange domain hidden deep within the Merusa Village? How did he end up there? Feeling an intense aura up ahead, the chimera threw such thoughts away. There was no time.


But, what awaited him as he moved through the area was a sight to behold. Multiple Melusines, included the nurse mounted up onto cross shaped boards with the words sinner written out in red, the hyena will crack his knuckles. The abyssal gazelles, this was their doing, wasn't it? What kind of punishment was this? Absolutely awful.


Melusines looking ready to shed tears as their legs and arms had been spread out upon the cross shaped wooden prison, the soldier could feel tears roll down his cheek. Who in the world considered Melusines sinners? They were not. Whichever abyss order member left this message here, they were wrong for sure. He needed to save them all, right here, right now.


Mages in Mondstadt churchgoer wear laughing at him, the early adult rolled his eyes. He knew it. This was their doing. What a cruel and unusual punishment. Glaring at the real sinners, the soldier wrote to free them upon the air. But, a laugh had come his way, in a matter of seconds.


Robed denizens demanding he pray and beg for forgiveness in exchange for the Melusines, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He had to do what now? Pray and beg the Hydro Archon for forgiveness? He had done nothing wrong here. Was this some sort of prank? If so, it wasn't funny.


Abyss Mages soon waving their wands and singing, the early adult placed himself into a bowing position. Groveling at the monster's feet, the early adult whispered underneath his breath for barely anyone to hear for the Hydro Archon to forgive him, he had sinned. But he swore he could feel the monster bring out the whip.


"What was that, sinner?" the Abyss Mage asked. "I couldn't hear you! Speak louder!"


Sighing, the early adult kept groveling. Why did he have to say it louder? He had already begged the archon for forgiveness, hadn't he? No way. He wasn't going to say it louder. They could all back off with that nonsense right here and now. That wasn't happening whatsoever. But, he had soon been whipped again.


"I said I couldn't hear you," the Abyss Mage said in a sharped tone. "Speak louder!"


Whip soon cracked the Melusine's way, she soon screamed in pain. Seeing such, the early adult's fists shook, how dare these creatures do such a thing. It was his fault for not speaking up loud enough. Lifting himself upward, the chimera dropped himself down into a groveling position once more. Forcing his voice into a shout, he let out the words one final time.


"Forgive me, Focalors, for I have sinned!" the hyena shouted at the top of his lungs. He then placed his hands into a praying position.


First Melusine of many soon freed, she had soon exited the area. Forced to bow and beg for forgiveness multiple times, or the Melusines were about to get a nice violent present, the hyena kept groveling over and over again. Multiple sea denizens sent free from their imprisonment, the chimera let out a huff. Why did he have to beg a God he wasn't supposed to worship for forgiveness? He wasn't a Fontaine native. He had nothing to do with the prophecy.


Final set of Melusines soon freed as his groveling came to an end, the Abyss Mage crackled into laugher. Church robed denizen saying it can't believe he actually did it, the chimera let out a loud sigh. It's not like they left him with a choice. He knew if he did not obey, the most important citizens in all of Fontaine would lose their lives. He could not allow that, no matter what. But, another group of faces he did not want to se soon emerged from a hole.


Kelebek and Izzet pointing and laughing, the early adult let out a groan. Group of two mocking him every step of the way, the chimera let out a groan. Were they trying to taunt him into fighting them? If such had been the case, mission accomplished. Lunging towards them, he had soon been tossed towards the wall.


"Give up already!" Izzet shouted. "We have already won!"


"He has lost!" Kelebek shouted. "The prophecy has already come! And the precious Melusines are no longer here!"


Hearing such, the early adult cracked his knuckles. How could the Abyssal gazelles go to this length? They had attempted to remove the Fontaine's most precious and important citizens. How disgusting of them do so. Didn't they know anything? If something had happened to the Melusines, they would incur the wrath of the Iudex. Did they really think that they could win this? It was all over for them. Their downfall was a mere sentence away. Lip quivering, his words soon bled out of his mouth.


"How could you do this?!" Siorc exclaimed, words unusually loud. "The Melusines are precious to Fontaine!"


"Nyahaha! That doesn't matter anymore!" Izzet exclaimed. "They're sinners now! And they've been dealt with accordingly by the post of justice!"


"Quit meddling in your plan, fool!" Kelebek exclaimed. "He should know this entire world is full of sinners!"


Not a single care in the world over what they had done, the early adult placed himself into a pouncing position. These two, how dare they say such a thing. The Melusines were not sinners. Did either of these two have a brain? They definitely didn't in there. Pouncing towards the brainless monsters, they had soon vanished without a singular trace left behind.


Kicked out of the unusual space, the early adult stared off at the world around him. Finding himself at the entrance of the Beryl Region, alarm bells had soon rung in his head one after another. Flooded waters going all the way up to his knees, the hyena observed the submerged area around him further.


Bacteria blocks floating around everywhere, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. He had more of this nasty garbage to deal with, why? He hardly had the time to deal with this. He had to go after the hooded strangers before they could cause any more problems. The choice was not his if he didn't want Fontaine to be dropped down to the world of the abyss.


Raising the white flag up above his head, the chimera placed the diving glove upon his hand. Knowing he had no choice but to clean up the mess the abyssal gazelles had left for him, the hyena had begun squiring the bacteria way. Gross purple germs soon going from purple to green, the first layer of garbage and trash had soon been taken out of the equation.


Next layer of purple garbage taken out of the picture, the early adult huffed and puffed up a storm. Was it just him, or had this been taking a lot more energy than usual? He supposed that had to have been the case. Maybe his glove was more like a Hydro delusion up upon the surface world.


Bed of water soon up to his waist the further into the Beryl Region he went, the soldier could feel himself begin to drift away. How had the water levels gotten so high overnight? Something was incredibly off here. Was this the prophecy already at work? If so, he had already been too late. The prophecy was here. It was as all over for the Beryl region.


Hole leading to Merusea Village up ahead, the chimera had become witness to the most unusual sight of them all. Look of deep and utter pain on Brume and Éclater's faces, the soldier could feel everything inside him pop like a balloon. The prankster sea lion duo, they looked as though they had been out of jokes completely.


"All our sisters are missing!" Brume exclaimed in a pain voice. "Bro, you gotta help!"


"Yeah, bro, please! This ain't no joke!" Éclater added.


Hearing the heartbreak in their voices, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Signing he had already taken care of that problem, and then attempting to say they'd all be back soon, Brume and Éclater looked at the hyena as if he had five heads. Did they not understand sign language? He supposed such was the case. They did not need such form of communication in their day to day underwater lives.


"Bro, I don't know what kooky thing you're doing with your hand," Brume said in a clueless tone. "But, I think I get what you're trying to say!"


"Yeah, bro, I don't get it, either!" Éclater exclaimed. "But, thank you, bro!" He bowed as he said such.


Hearing a loud roar off in the distance towards the north, the soldier swore he could hear Brume and Éclater say there was something kooky going on in Elynas. Hearing such, the soldier had begun running the fastest his legs could carry him. What could have been happening in Elynas? He had to get there right now before it would be too late.


Roars only getting louder, the soldier sped up his running speed. There was no time to waste, he had to get to Elynas as fast as he possibly could. Leaping, the early adult kept on sprinting. Any second now, and the prophecy of Fontaine would eat the entire Beryl region. He could not allow that.


Loud splashes soon head in the distance, the early adult had kept on running. Why hadn't the abyssal gazelles been satisfied at this point? Didn't they know when to stop? Enough was enough. They had caused enough damage by now. But, he knew they would never give up. They had set their goals on destroying everything. Nothing could be done.


Reaching the edges of Elynas, a large whale had soon awaited him. Seeing such, the soldier let out a gulp. How in the world was he supposed to win here? He didn't have a weapon. He was a useless husk of nothing. He could not transform, his vision was not useful here. Nothing more than a leftover piece of meat.


But, as if his prayers had been answers, a bright pink Melusine had soon come to the rescue. Short sea denizen handing him a bow, she soon offered him guidance on how to take such creature down. Standing behind him instructions had come his way in quick unison.


Told to am for the belly, the hyena blinked. Was it really that simple? Surely, it couldn't have been. That had to have only been step one of many weak spots for sure. Closing his eyes for a moment, the Melusine behind him helped to be ready to aim, and fire. Arrow soon glowing a bright white color, it collided with the enemy.


Such only being the beginning, the Melusine kept the guide going. Continuously instructed to aim for the stomach, the Melusine adjusted his posture. Right, aim for the stomach. That was the only weak spot. Horned whale trying to get away, the soldier reset the arrows one after another.


Aquatic sea beast of many contradictions looking ready to fall to its nonexistence, the soldier let out a battle cry. Just a few more round, and he would reach the climax. Arrows riding the wind, the same weak spot had been as before kept getting hit on constant repeat. Creature finally showing signs of defeat, a suggestion had soon come his way.


Melusine shouting hitting it with Dendro could knock it out for good, the hyena blinked. Could that really work? He did not think so. That sounded far too farfetched to be the case. But, he knew he had to give a go, no mater what. Closing his eyes for a moment, the tip of his arrow glowed a bright yellow-green.


Power of Dendro compelling him, the arrow soon raced off towards the enemy. Whale that would eat all falling to the ground, it had soon faded into the ether. Seeing such, the soldier almost broke out in celebration. But, such momentary second of relief had been short lived. Melusine soon informing him the Belleau Region had been even worse, the early adult made a break for it.


Sea denizen soon telling him he has to hurry to Poisson, it's all reached its peak there, the soldier's heart skipped more than six beats, palms incredibly sweaty. The prophecy had already reached the boat city? If it had already gotten to there, he had to make haste. Time was ticking. He had to go no. If only he could teleport from point a to b, that would be wonderful right about now.


Running of towards the east, another roadblock had soon thrown the soldier for a loop. Contaminated blocks of purple bacteria in his way once again, the early adult burst into tears. Why was it here, too? These germs, couldn't they wait until later to stand in his way? Feeling a draft of wind, the chimera attempted to deploy his windglider.


But, such deployment never came. Bacteria standing in his way, the hyena let out a sigh. Was the only way to move forward to get rid of it? He supposed he had no choice in the matter. Octopus jet waters thrown upon the inorganic enemy, the hyena's hands were bathed in sweat.


Bacteria quickly growing back, the soldier could feel an intense wave of shock flow through him. What was happening here? How could it still be lingering here? Breaking down into a puddle of sweat, the early adult held his hand out once more. He had to get rid of this at all costs.


Everything eventually cleared out, the chimera had begun running. Mages laughing at him as he chased after them, the soldier let out multiple shouts. Creatures trying with all their might to bait him with low hanging fruits, the chimera prepared his temporary bow. No more of these monsters. He had had enough.


Arrowing them all done, a spark popped off in the chimera's brain. These mages they needed to be a taught a lesson, a toothy lesson they would never forget. Robed denizens kicked around like a game ball, he lunged at the monster with all his might. Opening his mouth, his canines sunk in deep into the mage's neck.


Abyss Mage begging for mercy, no such had been awarded. Sinking deeper in the creature's nape, pitch black ooze dropped down onto the floor. Monster continuing to beg over and over for him to let go, the chimera dug down deeper. This Mage would pay, this mage would pay, this mage would pay, the mage would pay, this mage would pay, this mage would pay.


Mage soon breaking free from him, the early adult snapped himself out of it. What in the world had he just done? How could he ever resort to such violent tactics? Abyss Mage soon informing him it was already too late the prophecy in Poisson had already begun, the early adult dashed off towards the boat city. He was running out of time. He had to move.


Hearing loud screams up ahead, the early adult's currently human legs erupted into the fastest possible sprint. Were the sea lion sisters in trouble? He could not just stand around. He had to become lightning speed right here, right now. Soon reaching the ladder of the boat city, he dropped downward. But what soon awaited him was a water war.


Entirety of Poisson flooded enough to create a brand new underwater area, something of utter terror was ready to write its next obituary. Demoiselle clinging onto the edges of her boat in the corner, the soldier gazed at the bed of liquid once more. Lake of issues entirely purple, the soldier shivered. It was too late, the Spina was next.


Spina's bodyguards soon melting into puddles, the soldier let out a scream. What was happening? Why were people still melting? Aigre attempting to run off towards the Demoiselle, the chimera swore he could see her tears combine with the seawater that plagued the area. But, such had only been the beginning. Whale soon behind the blonde, everything broke.


"Demoiselle!" Aigre cried. "Demoiselle!" As she cried such, she attempted to head towards her, but she had been held back.


"Stop, Aigre!" Bain shouted, holding her sister back. "You can't go over there!"


"Um, that whale will eat you!" Kali said. "Mermaids are their favorite snack!"


"You two, everyone's already gone bye bye!" Aigre cried. "We're next! We'll about to go bye bye!!" But, as she cried such out, the Demoiselle had gone bye bye. "No!! No!!! Demoiselle!!!!!!! Demoiselle!!!!!!!"


Demoiselle soon swallowed by the narwhal, the early adult prepared his bow. This creature, had it eaten everyone here? It would pay for doing such a thing. That was it. It was going down. He couldn't let this monster let the prophecy go any further. No more. He could not let this go on any further.


Firing multiple arrows in rapid succession, not a single one of them hit their target. Seeing such, the chimera's legs shook. What was going on here? Why weren't they able to be hit? This could not be happening. Lunging more arrows in quick succession of one another, the glass fortress revealed itself.


Seeing the impenetrable wall of glass, the hyena dropped to his knees. It had been in a glass castle. He couldn't do this. There was no way. But, he knew he could not give up. He had to win, or the whale would devour all. Raising himself to his feet, he tried again.


But, failure had soon been his mistress. Arrows bouncing off the glass, the chimera could feel his will waver. There was no way he couldn't do this. It was an impenetrable wall. This whale was impossible, perfectly protected, unbeatable. More arrows bouncing off, the chimera could feel all his nerves snap at once.


Heart beating hard and fast in his chest, the soldier leaped over the ladder and back towards the beaches. Tears streaming down his face, the layer of glass sunk into the deep recesses of his mind. It was over. He couldn't win, the glass wall was barriers to end all barriers. The wall to end all walls.


Dashing through the mountains, the sparking lift had soon been taken once more. Not caring one bit of the static clinging to his uniform, his tears pooled themselves into the flood below. He was useless, the glass was maxi. He couldn't do anything. Running towards the Palais Mermonia, his heartbeat climbed upward like a flight of stairs. Blurry figure of the Iudex in front of him, the chimera's words soon blurted out of him all at once.


"The narwhal," the hyena choked out, tears drowning out everything. "I can't!" Everything blurred and dulled, the question coming his way had been garbled.


"Monsieur Siorc, what is the matter?" the Iudex asked.


But, such words had gone unheard. Heart beating like a jackhammer, everything was gone, silent, removed. Feeling himself drop down to the rug beneath him, the soldier could feel his consciousness slip away. As the land of unconsciousness knocked on the door, one last frantic thought tossed him into the garbage.


He can't do this.


He can't.


He can't.


He can't.


He can't.


He can't.


He can't.


***


"It's about
To be over.


It seems that
So many over chimeras have collected evidence of


The abyssal gazelle's crimes over the course of their six months of
Invasive, dangerous and
Malicious crimes.
Everything is about to be over.


This is it. It couldn't be more over.
How could this have gone on for so long? No one knows,
Even so, this is it.
Yes, this is it.


All will soon be over for
Real this time.
Everything is about to end.


Great, it's finally time, the
Ultimate final nail
In the coffin, it'll
Likely all be over now
This is it.
Yes, this is it. This is


It. I can't make a mistake this time. I


Know I can't. There's
No way I can let them get away.
Of course I can't.
Well, this really is it.


This truly is the end.
How will they be judged?
Everyone knows.
Yes. Guilty.


All of Fontaine will has back. They'll be
Removed, sent to jail.
Everything they've ever done will


Be recognized and recorded as a crime.
Yes, this time for sure.
Everything will be recorded. It's over for them. Forever. May they rot in pieces."


Finding himself on the couch of the Iudex's office the next morning, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. What was he doing here? How did he get here? He doesn't know. What happened? He did not know. He didn't remember a thing between Poisson and now. But, the Iudex had soon gazed his way.


"I apologize for you having to deal with this all by yourself. I do suppose I am partially to blame for such," the Iudex said in an apologetic tone. "You will not have to face the All Devouring Narwhal alone anymore."


Iudex soon explaining there would be a court case held after the last narwhal is defeated, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. A court case today? Was now really the time for all this? This couldn't have been a worse time for such to occur. No one was around. Everyone had been dissolved into water. But, the Chief Justice of Fontaine quickly explained the people of Fontaine were still alive. That primordial sea water was a sham. Nothing like the real thing.


Hearing such, the soldier tilted his head. How did the Iudex even know the difference between real and phony primordial seawater? Wasn't he just the highest in the court of justice? He had to have been a normal human with a vision. But, his thoughts had soon been interrupted with the slam of a door.


"Black Fish Steak Bro, we have to hurry!" Lonan screamed, tone unsteady. "We need to go to the Weeping Willow of the Lake! That narwhal is about to eat Damla and Firat!"


"And, um, according to my uh, um, research," Rabiu said, lip quivering. "If the narwhal swallows them whole, everyone in Fontaine will be swallowed by um, real primordial sea water!"


Lifting himself upward from the couch, the early adult exited the Iudex's office. If Damla and Firat are swallowed by the narwhal, all of Fontaine could die? Hearing such, he couldn't help but wonder. Had the undersea gazelles had such dangerous liquid flowing inside them? He couldn't let them get swallowed up. Not a chance.


Reaching the Weeping Willow of the Lake after about thirty minutes, a realization had soon wriggled into his partially human brain. The entirety of Fontaine had now been underwater. How could this have happened? But, for some odd reason, he could still breathe. Something wasn't right.


Spotting Kaiser, Robin, Raven, Malika, Earl, Baron, Bain, Kali, Aigre, Brume, Éclater, Vidame, Domini, Zinn, Peltro, Huxian, Pixiu, Folu, Sani, Oluchi, Gwendolyn, Marquis, Esquire all out on the battlefield as the whale attempted to swallow Damla and Firat whole. Everyone, including his detractors here, he blinked. He sees now. He's not alone. But, there was no time to be grateful. The whale was on the loose.


Watching as Kaiser, Malika, Earl, Baron, Vidame, Domini, Marquis and Esquire took out their weapons, the early adult could hardly believe what he was looking at. What were the Snezhnayan penguins doing going around fighting battles with scissors? Were they that weak, or just weaponless?


Major blow soon dealt with the powers of the eight penguins combined, the sea lions added themselves to the battle next. Scythes all coming crashing down, the quintet let out a sea of screams. Bright yellow and dark purple lights engulfing the narwhal, the soldier added his arrow to the mix. But, everyone had soon been swallowed up.


Finding themselves inside the narwhal's odd domain, Zinn and Peltro attempted to slap down their poison upon the whale's masked head. But, such had been a poor move. Toxins doing nothing, Zinn snapped his webbed fingers. Nothing had been doing.


Otter duo screaming out their holy light attacks, the narwhal soon froze, for a moment. Secondary creature soon popping out from nowhere, Robin, Raven, Gwendolyn and Lonan flew upwards. Dropping down arrowed gifts one after another, and strange green weapon, the creature had begun to weaken.


Jackal quartet's weapons adding one last jab to the mix, the chimera had been handed a cross. Pixiu telling him to repeat after her, with the power of the archon of choosing within him, he banishes thee to the void realm. Taking a deep breath, the early adult shouted such for even Celestia to hear. Narwhal soon defeated, everyone except himself had soon been kicked out. But, one final player had soon been added to the mix.


Seeing a short young woman with glowing white hair going down to her knees, red eyes, and a deep blue cosmic outfit, the soldier tilted his head back upwards towards the sky. Had this lady been inside the whale. Who was she, and why had he never seen her before? Eyes soon on him, everything was ready to shatter.


"You. Kelebek and Izzet tried to overthrow everything. But, it all ends here," as the mysterious woman said such, she plopped something into the hyena's hand. "And if you see Tartaglia. Tell him he's weak and pathetic." As she said such, she was soon gone.


Opening up his palm, a rather unusual object had been seated in his hands. Porcelain butterfly in front of him, the soldier couldn't help but wonder. Who was that woman he just met now? She certainly knew a thing or two about the Eleventh Harbinger and how pathetic he was. Had they been connected?


But, his energy had soon ceased. Intense wave of dizziness swallowing him whole, the soldier closed his eyes. Upon opening them once more, he had been in the Iudex's office. Did what happen truly happen at all? He didn't know. But, the next words shook him to his very core.


"Apologies Monsieur Siorc, I know you just woke up," the Iudex said in an apologetic tone, but it is time for the final court case."


Reaching the Opera House after about an hour of transportation, the soldier could feel a heavy wave of nervousness flow through him. Was there really enough evidence to try them as guilty? Maybe this wouldn't be enough, he didn't know. Seated in the front row as a key witness, the Iudex soon banged his cane upon his seat.


"We will now begin the court case against the current Abyss Leaders, Kelebek and Izzet and their atrocities across Fontaine!" the Iudex shouted.


"That's right, Monsieur Neuvillete!" the Hydro Archon interrupted. "If I may present-." But she had soon been awarded a loud bang from a cane.


"Lady ------, I ask you to not speak out of turn!" the Iudex shouted.


"It's my turn now, and I'm speaking!" the Hydro Archon demanded. "As you may all know, these two fiends tried to have the prophecy happen early and dissolve all of Fontaine's citizens into water! Tell me, dear audience, do you see any humans here?"


"No, Lady ------, I do not!" Kasier shouted.


Hearing everyone's shouts, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. There was indeed no normal humans anywhere to seen in the Fontaine Courtroom. What an eerie sight to behold. But, perhaps, just maybe, once the gazelles were found guilty, they'd all return to normal.


"Your honor, we did no such thing!" Izzet shouted. "The Iudex is crazy!"


"That's right, he's crazy!" Kelebek shouted. "You would never do such a thing! You're innocent!" But, their dumb act didn't work as the penguin family stood up to testify.


"Iudex, if I may take my turn!" Malika exclaimed. "We have all the evidence you need to prove they've been behind everything!" She then pointed at Earl. "Earl, show him the evidence!"


"Yes, Malika!" Earl shouted. "This is a remnant from the cube sucking incident! A lingering object from their powers! They were behind that!" Earl then shouted towards Baron. "Baron, Kaiser, show them your evidence!"


"Your honor, these two ugly scoundrels are lying!" Kaiser shouted. "It's not just Fontaine they have committed such ugly crimes to! They have done this in Mondstadt and Liyue as well!" As he said such, he took out a kamera. "My younger sister and brother sent me this! It's full of pictures of their crimes in Dragonspine and Mondstadt! They are guilty!"


"That is right, your honor," Baron said, adjusting their monocle. "I have picture proof of their crimes. If I may present." Vidame and Domini soon tagged themselves into the ring.


"And, these evil scoundrels, they tried to wipe the ocean floor of the the face of the planet!" Vidame shouted.


"These freaks created their own little sea monsters to try and taint the oceans to make them unlivable!" Domini shouted. "Those fiends!" Marquis and Esquire then added their own accusation to the list.


"I concur with Kaiser, despite how ugly his words are!" Marquis shouted. "I've seen this ugly brutes in Snezhnaya. They're attempted to mess with our world of snow!"


"And, not the mention, this isn't their first rodeo!" Esquire shouted. "Iudex, have you ever heard of the Adeptus control incident?" But a cane had soon been banged.


"Silence!" the Iudex shouted. "Please, do not mention anything irrelevant to the case!"


Hearing all of the penguin's testimonies, the early adult's eyes opened wide. Had that all happened? How had they been capable of so much destruction? These two, they were guilty as charged, locked them away already. But, the abyssal gazelles threw their worms onto the judging panel.


"Those were clones!" Izzet shouted. "We'd never do something like that!"


"Clones!" Kelebek repeated, but the next group soon testified.


"Your honor, what these two are saying is a load of baloney!" Brume exclaimed. "Our sisters say they created fake versions of them to tarnish the reputation of your daughters!"


"Yeah, your honor!" Éclater exclaimed. "Our sisters are still scared that there might be more fakes among us!"


"Not to mention, your honor, they created various fake monsters to try and destroy Fontaine!" Bain shouted.


"Um, yeah, and we have proof of all that, right Aigre?" Kali asked.


"Yes! I saw them creating fake crystal deposits and much more!" Aigre exclaimed. But, the accused soon shouted once more.


"Liars!" Izzet shouted. "There's no proof of that!"


"Slander!" Kelebek shouted. "She has no proof!" But, the proof soon came.


"Oh, no proof you say, vile fiends?" Robin said. "Raven, present the evidence!"


"On it, hon!" Raven shouted. "Sir Iudex, if I may play this projection from my kamera for a moment?"


Projection of the abyssal gazelles creating various monsters in a frenzy, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes. Just how much danger had they brought to Fontaine? They had to have nearly decimated it to the ground at least three times over. Things were looking pretty guilty for them. It was almost over now. Evidence train continuing, the other bird duo slammed their hands on the table.


"They can pretend they're innocent all they want, but I just know they're guilty!" Gwendolyn shouted. As she said such, she and Lonan soon took out devices. "Ever since these two have been spotted here, the toxicity levels in the air have shot up! And, we have a few victims to these poisoning in the room with us right now."


"She is correct your honor." Lonan affirmed. "Folu, if you may recount your tale."


"Oh, silly me, I nearly forgot about that silly incident," Folu said, shaking his head. "But, it would seem these little criminals of ours were the ones responsible for the toxic spider outbreak a few weeks ago. I nearly died from that, I'll have you know!"


"Lies! You don't have proof!" Izzet exclaimed. But, such attempt at feigned innocence fell on its buttocks.


"Here is a report of the air quality, your honor!" Oluchi said. "Hehe, I'm so cute taking down the baddies!"


"As well as the toxicity report recorded in the pipes underwater," Sani said. "That was also them."


"And um, uh, the cube incident, they left behind crucial evidence behind," Rabiu added. "Um, uh, here's evidence." Zinn and Peltro soon added themselves to the mix.


"Yer kiddin' Peltro, we have to testify, too?" Zinn asked. "I ain't know nothing about these two!"


"Archons, Zinn, you do, remember?" Peltro asked in an annoyed tone. "That shard you have in your shirt pocket?"


"Oh, yer right, fergot 'bout dat, ya know?" Zinn asked. They then took out the shard. "Your honor, the evidence of when they tried to wipe the ocean off the map."


"Apologies, we also would like to add our own evidence," Huxian said, coughing. "The Grand Duke told us living conditions in the prison have gone downhill because of these fawns and their behavior."


"That is correct, their squids had caused collateral damage," Pixiu said, shaking her head. "Every incident involving unusual monsters is all them." But, the guilty soon testified.


"All lies!" Kelebek shouted. "This is a witch hunt!" As one said such, the hyena swore one looked like an orange haired freak.


"We are innocent!" Izzet exclaimed. "They were clones! We are innocent!"


Hearing the abyssal gazelle duo's pathetic lies, the chimera folded his hand into fist, shaking. No. He can't just sit by and say nothing anymore. They were guilty. He needed to say something. His own evidence, he had to present to the table. It was over for them. He had to do it. He had to break his silence. He had no choice. Standing up front from the front seat, he took a deep breath.


It's his turn.


"Monsieur ----------, I have something to say!" Siorc shouted. But, he had soon been interrupted.


"Shush, Fatui, it's not your turn!" the Hydro Archon shouted.


"Lady -----, let him speak," the Iudex said. Loud deep breath infiltrating the opera house, it all soon continued.


"Kelebek and Izzet are one-hundred-percent guilty of all these crimes they are desperately trying to deny!" Siorc shouted. He took a deep breath. "And, I won't be silent anymore! I was there for it all! They created all this chaos and the incidents that happened around Fontaine and beyond! It's all because of them!" He took another breath. "One of those poisoning incidents? I am one of their victims! And, the nurse in the Fortress of Meropide has the records to prove it!" As he said such, he unclipped the porcelain butterfly. "All of the evidence of their crimes over the past two hundred fifty years is recorded in here! Isn't that right, Damla and Firat?"


"Yes, it's all true," Damla said, voice shaking. "We were their first victims."


"The proof is all inside that butterfly," Firat said, voice shaking. "I am going to show the evidence."


Proof blasting on the theater walls of their two centuries worth of crimes, a wave of relief flowed through the hyena. This was it. It was about to be over. Iudex soon saying the Oratrice will cast its judgement, everyone waited quietly. Card soon spitting out, the Iudex read carefully.


"The Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale declares Kelebek and Izzet," the Iudex said in an important tone. "Guilty of all charges. They will be sentenced to imprisonment in the Mare Jivari." But, there was soon protest about.


"Unfair! We demand a rejudgment!" Izzet shouted.


"We are innocent, that judgement is wrong!" Kelebek shouted.


"The Oratrice gave its fair judgement," the Iudex responded. "And it is never wrong in such." He then banged his cane upon the ground. "Gardes, take them away."


Meka Gardes escorting the abyssal gazelles away, the soldier burst into tears. It's over. They're finally gone. Fontaine was free, ready to heal, to go back to normal. Courtroom soon dismissed, all the chimeras left the area. Short party held at the Congele Boutique, the Agent dragged him out after about an hour.


"You are dismissed for today, soldier," the Agent said. "But do not get comfortable. There may be some loose ends still clinging around." the masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. "For now, go back to Snezhnaya."


Nodding, the soldier removed his teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes. Icy cold hallways soon upon him, the chimera reached the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking.


Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the chimera let out a yawn that could pierce the heavens. Weaponized hairpins and earrings soon removed, and uniform soon put away, the early adult flopped onto the uncomfortable bed. But, he tossed and turned as soon as his head hit the pillow. What else could possibly be left? There couldn't have possibly been anymore.


Second wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the early adult closed his eyes. Glasses soon removed, the land of tormented dreams was ready to call the soldier back in for the late evening. Drifting off into sleep, one final thought had come with him into the land of the subconscious.


What loose ends remained?