Chapter 736 - 649

Chapter 736: Chapter 649

I hummed as I walked down the street and back towards the inn.

Is it weird that I didn’t expect Liyue to have good coffee? I don’t want to sound racist; I just didn’t expect the culture here to have developed coffee to this extent. Hell, I would expect the same if it was Inazuma, which sounds very similar to Japan from what I’ve understood so far.

I would expect the tea here to be amazing, which it is. I’m just pleasantly surprised that the coffee is no worse than over from Mondstadt.

Maybe I’m just overthinking things. There’s bound to be differences between logic even if the cultures here match what I’m familiar with.

Regardless, I used my shoulder to nudge the door open.

"I was hoping to get back in time."

"Good morning, Wilhelm." Artoria was just about ready for the morning. She looked refreshed after having taken a shower. "Is that for me?"

"No, both are mine. Get your own," I deadpanned.

She smiled, rolling her eyes. "It was very nice of you to get me one, thank you."

"Actually, there’s a price for it." I handed it to her, and she accepted it happily. Silently, while taking a sip, she lifted up her skirt for me.

I was joking, but I wouldn’t complain.

Red today, huh?

Very bold.

"We’ve been here for several days now. I don’t know what other sightseeing you want to do." I sat on the bed as she joined me.

"I have seen everything I wished to for now. I admit, more than exploring every small detail, I wish to keep moving forward." She explained. "Perhaps, I will wish to return sometime soon to further see the city in more detail, but I am curious in a wider sense."

That made sense.

Excitement? Impatience?

Not in a negative sense, but just wanting to see what the world has to offer, even if everything here is still relatively new.

"The Rite of Descension is today, so we can head out after that. Find a boat to get a ride over to Inazuma? I’ve only heard people mention it offhand, but it’s apparently similar to Japan." And that’s where the supposed Electro Archon lives.

Maybe I’m looking forward to it too. I have a great many idea bouncing around in my brain right now, a lot of things I want to try, some experiments I need to do. That ’fight’ with Keqing opened up a lot of possibilities in my eyes.

I’ll need to thank her later.

Even if she was significantly weaker than me, inspiration still can come from anywhere.

"You said that you directed your friends from Remnant back home. You were a bit..." Artoria didn’t finish her words, but I knew what she meant.

I found myself scrunching my nose. "Hesitant? Reluctant? Uncertain? All of the above?"

"Did you sleep on the decision?"

"Oh, I certainly slept on it. But I did what I did and let the consequences be what they are." I put my hands up. "I...reluctantly trust Roman and Neo? They’re my friends." Okay, I was smiling. "I gave them a very brief rundown and basically shoved them into the deep end, so we’ll see how this goes."

"Do you think it was too much for them to handle?"

"Oh, the opposite. I think they’re going to thrive, and that’s what worries me." God help everyone if Roman or Neo actually learns magic.

But...fuck it.

I was going to tell them eventually, and Zekram actually reached out for help. I was...am busy, and I didn’t want to stop my time with Artoria to go do that, so it seemed logical.

At the end of the day, does it matter now? I asked them not to reveal where they came from or the fact that I can travel the world, and I know they’ll respect that. Roman is...particularly about how he likes to get under people’s skin for fun. But I know he wouldn’t just let that slip for a laugh.

On the opposite end, beyond Salem and a handful of people back on Remnant, do I care about any opinions there?

Artoria poked my cheek. "You were doing that thing where you went quiet and lost in thought. What were you thinking about?"

"I was thinking about burying my face in Salem’s butt." I said with full honesty.

Artoria let out a laugh before sighing. "How did I end up with such a lewd man?" She shook her head. "Admittedly, I would not be against it either. She has a very....large rear."

It’s amazing the difference between the Artoria now and the Artoria when I first met her. Willingly talking about her own sexual desires or expressing sexual interest with someone else openly like this.

It was no secret that she liked both men and women, but if it were closer to when we first met, you would have killed her before she would admit to being interested in Salem’s huge butt.

"The festival, celebration, ceremony—whatever it is—is supposed to happen this morning. Wanna go check it out?"

"That would be lovely." She took my arm, which was becoming normal now, and we headed out the door.

[Line Break]

We could see the festivities as soon as we left the tavern. I had already glimpsed them when I was getting coffee, but it seems like more and more people were out and about now.

I wasn’t quite sure of the cultural significance of this ’Rite of Descent,’ but they seemed to hold it in high regard around here.

While there were celebrations, there wasn’t chaos. It was more controlled, a sort of reverence, that type of thing.

It wouldn’t be like the celebration where people were running around, lighting fireworks, causing problems, or being loud and partying. But even so, there was a certain charm about the festivities that started.

"The place is called Yujing Terrace, I think? I overheard people talking about it. It’s up top, near that big palace, under the Jade Chamber. Apparently they don’t regularly let crowds inside except for events like this."

"Then I am excited to see it." Artoria replied.

I mean, we saw the city from above, so we sorta saw it already, but putting a name and significance to it sort of makes it a new experience, right?

"You know, we haven’t really talked about it yet. It seems like things keep popping up, or it’s never the right time. Mordred isn’t here either, so it’s probably not the right time now. But I just want to say that I haven’t forgotten about Kay. We should talk about that sometime."

Artoria didn’t frown, nor did she look like her mood was lost. "It has given me a lot to think about. I miss Kay; I very much wish to see him again, in whatever form he takes. However, I am scared that he will see me after everything that happened. Will he still think of me as his sister? His King? His comrade? I would not blame him if he did not. But I fear the blow to my heart when he rejects me."

"Let me ask you this. Compared to your original relationship with Mordred, how does Kay compare?"

She looked at me and pursed her lips. "It cannot be compared. Mordred and I....it’s best not to go into details. You are more than aware of what transpired."

"Yet, Mordred is at home, isn’t she? You two spend time together, you two bicker, you parent her, and she listens to you. She idolizes you; she looks up to you," I pointed out. "Compared to that, is your relationship with your brother so shallow?"

She was quiet.

"Fear isn’t logical." I continued. "Nor is love or regrets. But I’ll just say, when I was talking with Kay and mentioning us, he was very protective of you."

Artoria slowly started to smile. "Yes, I imagine he was. Before my status as Uther’s heir was revealed, he truly treated me as his sister. He used to say things like, ’My future husband must ask him for permission first,’ and that he would scare away all potential suitors that are unworthy."

The nostalgic memory seemed to ease her a lot; the warmth was visible as she spoke.

"So, I’ll have to go through your brother? I will be prepared the next time we meet then."

"Stop!" She puffed up cutely. Despite everything now, she suddenly flushed. "...I would not reject it, however. But I believe you would wish to wait longer before committing to something such as marriage."

I don’t blush easily.

But somehow, I think I was copying her despite my best efforts.

Marriage?

It seemed like such a far away thing not long ago. And here I am talking about it with a woman I love. And she basically outright told me that she would marry me when we’re ready.

If that couldn’t make my heart beat faster, then what could?

"At the very least, we need a brother-in-law to have an actual body so he can walk you down the aisle."

She buried her face into my side.

But more specifically, she didn’t deny it.

For both our sakes, I stopped talking about it. Who knew that talking about this subject would have both of us in this state?

We silently followed the flow of foot traffic up the mountain side as we ascended towards the courtyard where the ritual was happening. The decorations were nice, very festive, yet rather elegant and noble all throughout

Nothing too gaudy or provocative this time around.

I took out my super special fan that my new best friend gave me. It made me feel particularly impressive compared to my old fan.

The crowds were gathering more and more, it was going to be hard to squeeze in to watch the ceremony.

Just as I was contemplating ways to skip ahead, I noticed a couple family faces. "Oh hey, it’s them!" I tugged on Artoria’s arm; she looked up, and maybe I was a bit too loud because they noticed me too.

"Hey, Traveler, look! It’s Wilhelm and Artoria!" The little fairy floating next to Aether pulled on his sleeve before he walked over.

"Well, I didn’t expect to see you both here," I started. "I thought you were back in Mondstadt."

Aether smiled. "Since the issue with Storm Terror was resolved, that meant I could travel. Venti suggested I come here to Liyue and find Rex Lapis. He mentioned that the Rite of Descent was one of the few times he appears in public."

"Did you just arrive? It is not a quick journey." Artoria asked.

"We...uh...took a short cut. Through the mountains." He scratched the back of his head. "It saved a couple days, but I wouldn’t recommend it."

"Oh? You mean the giant mountain looming in the distance?"

"Yeah, that one." He chuckled. "It’s very cold."

"Paimon almost froze!" Paimon exclaimed. "And so many Hilichurls! They all wanted to eat poor Paimon!"

"You poor thing. Here, would you like something to snack on?" Artoria’s expression softened as Paimon spoke.

"Wah? Paimon—" She stopped once Artoria all but shoved some sweets into her hands, and her eyes lit up. "Paimon happily accepts!"

Artoria can get weirdly motherly at random times. I don’t know if she even recognizes she’s doing it. With Klee before, now with Paimon...she definitely has a maternal side that’s been rearing its head.

"I take it that there’s no luck finding your sister?" I asked.

He shook his head. "Not much happened between now and before." There was a short sigh from him. "I’m hoping Rex Lapis will know something. You haven’t heard anything by chance, have you?"

"Sorry, I’ve basically just been sightseeing with Artoria here. But...uh, you know a picture would definitely help."

"I don’t have any pictures on me."

"Hmm. I can cast a spell that can help you imprint the memory later. I’ll make extras so you can pass them around to people."

"Really?’ His eyes brightened. "I’d really appreciate that."

"It’s not really any big effort." I waved it off. Small acts of kindness are what drives the world. It was minimal effort on my part, but for him, it was significant help.

"Wilhelm can do magic? Paimon didn’t know you were a wizard!"

"I know a thing or two." I winked.

"Can you use magic to find his sister?" Paimon asked, and that seemed to be a question that had Aether do a double take too; as if waiting for me to answer, he looked my way.

"Technically? It’s possible. I could theoretically use a scrying spell, using your connection as blood siblings to find her location. Technically, I’m saying. But you know I’m not from this world, and from what you said...you had a conflict with a local god? I’m not really scared of the locals all too much, but I don’t know what kind of trouble that would bring if I try to pry into secrets around here so aggressively. In fact, there’s a high possibility it becomes a negative consequence for you as well if it comes down on our heads." I laid out my honest thoughts.

"Then don’t worry about it," Aether settled on. "At the very least, I want to regain my strength before doing anything dangerous like that."

"Well, I’m not one to turn down a fight. If someone does bother you, I’ll come and give you a hand. Can’t let the locals bully us too much." I gave him a little grin.

He chuckled and nodded in thanks.

"It’s a nice world, though. I’ve been to plenty of worlds; every one of them has their charm. The food here is wonderful."

"Yes, the food is exceptional." Artoria nodded enthusiastically.

"Paimon agrees! Paimon likes the food a lot!" She joined in.

"I do have one warning, however. Knowing you came from beyond the sky here."

"Hmm?" Aether looked at me.

"Perhaps it’s the reason a local god attacked you; maybe it’s irrelevant. But the sky is fake. It’s a firmament, an artificial barrier to separate the planet from the greater universe. If someone came in through it arbitrarily..."

Aether was silent.

I didn’t need to explain more. He seemed smart; he could understand what I was saying.

He seems nice; I have no problem befriending him. I feel like I would get along with him fairly well.

"I remember you said that you got your Wind powers from touching Venti’s statue. Did you touch the statue of the god here?"

He perked up. "I did, and I can use Geo now."

"Huh." I should see if I can do that. "How convenient."

He laughed it off. "I think my body is just remembering, honestly. It feels familiar? Or something is filling the void, I guess. I don’t know how to explain it."

I rubbed my chin. "I would love to see it happen. Any chance you’re heading to Inazuma after the festival?"

"Uh, I’m not sure." He scratched his head. "I need to talk to Rex Lapis, like I said. I don’t know where I’m headed after that."

Well, can’t help it then. I flicked my wrist. "Here, take this. If you need me, just tear it; it’ll alert me that you’re in trouble, and I’ll hop over in a jiffy."

He looked at the talisman, taking it hesitantly.

"But what if we’re far away?" Paimon asked.

"Then..." I leaned in. "I’ll use magic." I waved my hand, producing a flower for her. "Like this."

"Oh!" She clapped. "Paimon wants to see more."

"Maybe later." I gave her the flower with a wink.

She’s a cute little thing.

While I wasn’t exactly friends with Aether just yet, I sympathized with him, so I figured I may as well give him a talisman. I don’t think he’s the sort to get into trouble without a reason. So I doubt he’ll abuse it. And I felt bad; as someone who travels the world, I couldn’t imagine being stuck. Well.... I could, after what happened on Sakaar. Obviously, it’s not the same thing, but suffice to say, I could understand his situation a bit.

We managed to squeeze into the courtyard. It was designed in a hexagonal pattern, which I assume had some significance ceremonially. At the center, where no one dared stand too close, there was a giant...altar?

No, I think it was a massive incense burner. It looked almost like a giant furnace in practicality, but if this place had the same logic as Chinese culture that I’m familiar with, that’s definitely a burner to offer incense. Offering incense was basically a way to pray to your ancestors or deities or immortals.

The giant doors of the palace connected open, and I recognized the face at the front.

Ningguang was here!

She scanned the crowd, and I waved happily. I think she saw me because she seemed to smile good-naturedly.

She was flanked by quite a few people. Many in ceremonial dress, other guards. Everyone went to positions without being told. They must have done this a lot; was it a yearly thing? That would make sense if it were the case.

The guard formed a perimeter around the center hexagon where the incense burned.

Ningguang and her assistants took positions around it, closer.

She raised her hand, and the crowd began to shush. I looked around and noted that there were a lot more people than just twenty or thirty minutes ago. It was definitely a good idea to get here when we did because we wouldn’t have even been able to get within view based on how backed up the crowd is.

"The hour is upon us." Her voice wasn’t loud, but it carried across the crowd.

I don’t think anyone dared to raise their voices at this point.

If Rex Lapis—their worshiped God—was going to descend, even if it was a normalized yearly occurrence, I doubt many of them had the courage to be disruptive.

She made some hand signs, and the power of Earth began to manifest around her. Geo, as the locals call it, shimmered. Simple rocks came into existence, yet they illuminated the earth around them with an ethereal light.

I had a sneaking suspicion that the elements here were a tad different than I was used to back home. Venti was using his Anemo to reverse time; that’s not something simple. Wind manipulation is capable of.

And the Elements seemed derived from the Archons who presided over them; therefore, there must be secrets hidden within each one.

Her ’Geo’ power, for example, I felt the divinity in the land before, a faint echo of it that was woven into the bedrock. But this was slightly different, her own expression of the Element, yet it also carried a familiarity of it.

A basic origin, as it were.

Was that Gravity?

It was much gentler than Gravity manipulation that I was familiar with as well. No, was it more a weight? A conceptual weight associated with the Element of Earth?

How interesting, I need to research this stuff more.

She continued her movements as the shimmering stones spun around the giant incense burner, entering it, igniting it, and making it glow brightly at the center. A waft of snake drifted upwards before the flames and ethereal light merged and shot up to the clouds in a pillar, piercing through the above clouds.

"How beautiful," Artoria commented. "I am glad we came to watch."

The clouds swirled around the sky-high light, making a rather impressive phenomenon for everyone to watch.

The clouds darkened slightly, some rolling thunder among them, and I was anticipating his reveal. I was curious to see what he would do, show off his divine power? Did he do some impressive sight as he descended?

Something emerged, a dragon head?

Was Rex Lapis a dragon? I didn’t expect this.

I was about to say something, but his body became fully visible.

...as it fell to the ground.

It fell from the sky, crushing the Incense Holder and shattering part of the courtyard. Based on the expressions of everyone present, this most certainly wasn’t supposed to happen.

There was a deafening silence.

I looked at Artoria, and she looked back at me.

This was definitely not my fault this time.

I’m innocent.

Ningguang seemed to hesitantly approach the dragon, touching it. "Close the courtyard!" She barked out orders. "Seal the city; no one is leaving or entering!"

The guards immediately moved as now the chaos began. People all around us panicked, tried to get out, and tried to move all at once, and it just made things worse.

The fuck was going on? Was that supposed to be their God? Was he dead?

"Guard the body! I don’t want anyone approaching! Millelith, look for anyone suspicious! Go get carts; I want tarps! We need to move the body out of public sight!"

I couldn’t get close enough to get a look.

There was a high-pitched bird screech that came overhead.

A familiar bird flew in over the buildings.

"Oh hey, it’s Cloud Retainer." I pointed out.

She landed next to the corpse, flaring her wings to scare off the Guards.

Next, another crane game, more red. It seemed much more...aggressive, as it didn’t hold back in dispersing any people that were too close, either knocking them down or blowing them away.

Next came a deer that was trotting across the sky, landing down gracefully, taking a position on the other side of the dragon’s corpse, letting out a snort, and scaring away the guards over at that end too.

"Thou shall not approach!" Cloud Retainer’s voice echoed out.

"The Adepti!’

"The Adepti are here!"

"Clear the way, mortals! None shall approach his body!" The Red Crain was intentionally pushing the crowd away, much more aggressive this time.

Literally using its wings to blow powerful gusts of winds at them. It didn’t seem to care at all, and while it wasn’t particularly hurtful, it was still knocking people down, blowing them away, sending them flying across the ground in a needlessly aggressive manner.

"Stop! What are you doing!?" Ningguang shouted, her Elemental Power flaring up.

"Begone, Mortal." Cloud Retainer dismissed her. "This is a matter for the Adepti to handle!"

"What’s going on, Traveler? Paimon is confused? Is that supposed to be the Geo Archon?" Paimon asked in confusion, but Aether was just as confused as we were.

Most of the crowd dispersed; Artoria and I were about to step back too. It was none of our business, and there wasn’t really a reason for her to stick around as it may cause more problems.

But out of the corner of my eye, I saw that Red Crane flap its wings, looking aright at Artoria.

Of course, she noticed too.

But just like when she stepped up with the Fatui stripper before, it was my turn now.

Because how dare he try to do that to my woman?

You want to play with wind? So be it.

I used my Divine Authority of Hanuman; the wind in the entire courtyard swirled to me, around my palm, and I threw it forward at the bird.

It let out a strange squawking sound as the palm of Wind slapped it off the terrace into the city below. The commotion seemed to startle both the Adepti and Ningguang’s side into stopping their almost-escalation as they were looking like they were about to come to blows.

They all were just staring at me.

Ah...it seems like I did just what I didn’t want to do.

"Hey Ningguang, hey Cloud Retainer. Fancy seeing you both here." I waved happily.

Hmm, why did that seem to make things more awkward?

[Line Break]

A/N

Adepti are there because of Wilhelm, so things are a bit more tense than they were in canon. Bonus, Aether isn’t presumed a criminal now either!

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