(3RD POV)
[Three days has passed. It's been three days since the Rite of Parting. That means... a week passed since Osial's Incident. Now, Musashi and Lumine are known as Heroes of Liyue.]
Paimon: "It's three days, right?"
Lumine: "Yup... Three days passed and we are doing some comission for adventurer's guild as usual."
Paimon: "Yeah... It's good we can doing some comissions until now. But...]
[Paimon points her finger at Musashi. She stills rubs her left cheek.]
Paimon: "Somehow... Paimon wanted to laugh."
Musashi: "Screw you, Paimon..."
Paimon: "Hehe~ It's your own fault, Slime's Lover. Because of your actions, you deserved to be slapped by Keqing."
Lumine: "For this, i agree with Paimon."
[Musashi just grunts. Even though three days had passed since that ridiculous incident. But... Keqing's slap still left an imprint on Musashi's cheek until now.]
(A/N : Like This...)
Musashi: "Ugh... Neko-chan is a soft-hearted girl... But has the strength of a monster."
Lumine: "....It was the result of you being too flirtatious."
Musashi: "Huh? What do you mean by that, Lumine?"
[Lumine and Paimon sighed deeply. They both couldn't stop thinking how dense Musashi is when it came to love and romance.]
Lumine: "Forget it. You are really too dense."
Musashi: "What!?"
Paimon: "Paimon agrees. You are too dense when it's all about romance, Slime's Lover."
[Lumine and Paimon left the confused Musashi behind. She start scratching her hair in frustration.]
Musashi: (Argh! What the hell do those two mean!?)
[Musashi just keep her pace and follow both Lumine and Paimon. On the other hand, Makoto (in her spirit mode) is because of the conversation between the three of them.]
Makoto: (Hehe~ Your denselessness are really remind me of Ei, Musashi.)
(Opening Song : Again - Yui)
Kono omoi wo keshite shimau niwa Mada jinsei nagai desho?
[As the song starts, the screen shows Lumine is looking at his older brother, Aether, who is smiling and walked away.]
Yarinokoshiteru koto Yarinaoshite mitai kara
[Lumine tries to catch up with him, but it's turned out to be a dream. When Lumine opened her eyes, she sees Musashi is sitting beside her, and Paimon floating near her.]
[And as Musashi stood up and pointed her blade to the sky, the screen shows the title "Genshin Impact : Shattered Void".]
Yume no tsuzuki oikakete ita hazu nano ni
[Lumine walks around the foot of the mountain near Liyue, accompanied by the smiling Paimon. She looks at the white flower near her feet. She crouched down and touch that flower softly and carefully.]
Magarikunetta hosoi michi hito ni tsumazuku
[Aether accompanied by Abyss Mages and Abyss Herald, stand on the cliff of the mountain. Aether found a white flower below him. He looked at that leaf for a moment, then he step on it and crushed that flower to pieces.]
Ano koro mitai ni tte modoritai
[Lumine, Musashi and Paimon finally arrived at Liyue Harbor and being welcomed by the resident of Liyue.]
Wakejanai no nakushite
[But at the same time, Musashi felt a sharp gaze from somewhere.]
Kita sora wo Sagashiteru
[Two unknown female is looking at them from different places. One from Adventurer's Guild and the other from the top of Liyue's tower.]
Wakattekuremasu you ni
[Shenhe who just appeared on Liyue, just take a look at the Travelers and feel their power from afar.]
Gisei ni natta you na Kanashii kao wa
[The screen shows Childe with his cynical smile, and then Zhongli with his arm crossed and he closed his eyes, and...]
Yamete yo
[Zhongli opens his eyes and glowing gold.]
Tsumi no saigo wa namida janai yo
[Out of Liyue Harbor, Keqing slashed one Hilichurl and Ganyu shots the other Hilichurl from the high ground.]
Zutto kurushiku seotteku nda
[Hu Tao herself is playing around with Hilichurls.]
Deguchi mienai kanjou meiru ni
[Beidou, along with his pirate crews are exterminating Hilichurl and Ruin Guard around Liyue, due to Ningguang Request.]
Dare wo matteru no?
[The screen shows La Signora stands in front of Northland Bank leading a small troops of Fatui fighter.]
Shiroi no-to ni tsuzutta you ni
[Near Wangshu Inn, Xiao is surrounded by a bunch of Hilichurl.]
Motto sunao ni hakidashitai yo
[But then, Xinqiu and Chongyun shows up to help Xiao and eradicate those Hilichurls.]
Nani kara Nogaretainda ... Genjitsu tte yatsu?
[And the scenes changes Childe is standing in the center of Golden House, smiling evilly. And then, he use his Foul Legacy Transformation.]
Kanaeru tame ni Ikiterundatte
[Musashi eyes turned green as Childe unleashed his Hydro Whale, Musashi just slashed through the whale and their weapon clashed.]
Wasurechai sou na Yoru no manaa
[Lumine breaks their clashed with her new Geo Attack. Childe using his spears, clashed with Lumine's blade and Musashi's katana.]
Bunan ni nante Yatterarenai kara..
[At Qince Village, Two unknown woman warrior are staring at each other, rain is pouring hard.]
Kaeru basho mo nai no
[As the rain stopped, both of them are dashing towards against each other with their own weapon.]
Yasashisa niwa itsumo kansha shite'ru
[Madame Ping is looking at the sunset, and Yanfei appeared behind her and stands together to watch the sunset.]
Dakara tsuyoku naritai (I'M ON THE WAY)
[Musashi, Lumine, Keqing, Ningguang and two unknown woman warrior are fending off the Fatui as Three Adepti are fighting Osial.]
Natsukashiku naru
[Powered up by Lumine, Ningguang and All Adeptus...]
Konna itami mo kangei jan
[Musashi unleashed the powered up "Ishana Daitenshou" towards Osial, and the screen turned white.]
-------------------- Chapter 21 -------------------
(Still 3RD POV)
(Liyue Port)
[The three of them were currently looking around the Liyue port. Indeed, many people who work and even trade in that place.]
Musashi: "Wow... It's crowded as usual."
Lumine: "Yeah. After the Osial incident, they all returned to their respective activities."
Paimon: "Paimon thought they were all still sad because of Rex Lapis's death. But... If we look at it like this..."
[Musashi patted and stroked Paimon's hair. It gives warmth and a smile to our little pixie.]
Musashi: "You're not wrong, Paimon. But, they think to move forward."
Paimon: "You mean... Forgetting past sorrows and focusing on future well-being?"
Musashi: "Yup... Because if you are trapped in sadness without doing anything for long time, what will happen is you will only destroy yourself."
[Lumine and Paimon listened a little to Musashi's explanation. However, Lumine had always felt that Musashi's words meant more than that.]
Musashi: "Well, instead of us being sad and alone like an idiot... Why don't we do something useful for the future?"
Lumine: "Hehe~ I agree with you, Musashi. Your words are really true. There's no point in being sad all the time."
Paimon: "You know, you say that like you've experienced it before, Slime's Lover."
[Lumine is really shocked when Paimon said that. And, just as Lumine had expected... Musashi's face turned gloomy.]
Musashi: "....."
Lumine: "P-Paimon! Don't!"
Paimon: "W-What!?"
[After seeing the gloomy Musashi, Paimon came to her senses and felt guilty for asking.]
Paimon: "M-Musashi, g-gomen.. Paimon did not meant to-"
*PAT!*
[Again, Musashi pats Paimon's head. They saw her sad face turned into a smile. A sad smile.]
Musashi: "It's fine, you two. It's because you two don't know about it."
Lumine: "Musashi..."
Musashi: "Well, I've been through the same thing... I lost a lot of my friends in the war."
[Again, both Lumine and Paimon were shocked after know Musashi has got herself into a war.]
Lumine: "Y-You've been to war!?"
Musashi: "Yeah... Before I became an expert swordwoman, I had entered the battlefield as an infantry."
[Now Lumine understood why the Archon War or anything related to war was such a sensitive subject for Musashi. Because of that, Lumine tried to change the topic.]
Lumine: "B-By the way... We got an invitation to Pearl Gallery!"
Paimon: "Huh? Pearl Gallery?"
Musashi: "Oh... you mean that floating ship?"
[Musashi and Lumine knows that Pearl Gallery is actually a floating gentleman's club, and also functions as a brothel and casino. But, they don't want to corrupt the innocent Paimon.]
Musashi: "Uh... You know what... Let's just go. It's not nice to decline an invitation."
Lumine: "Y-Yeah... Good idea!"
Paimon: "Alright! Pearl Gallery, it is!"
(Minutes later...)
[Pearl Gallery is a luxurious ship located close to Liyue Harbor, which is for the exclusive enjoyment of its specially-invited guests. The advertisement on the Feiyun Slope Bulletin Board and the Connoisseur Catalog on the ship indicate that the Pearl Galley is actually a floating gentleman's club, and also functions as a brothel and casino. While such industries are technically not allowed in Liyue itself, the Liyue Qixing turn a blind eye to the Pearl Galley which floats offshore.]
Musashi: "Wow... It's a big ship."
[And... When they board into the ship, they saw the ship is full of people that are talking to each other, as they expected.]
Musashi: "This place is really crowded."
Lumine: "As expected from Pearl Gallery."
Paimon: "Wait... Is that-"
[And, the trio are looking at a familiar person sitting on the table, sipping tea and having a small conversation with two male and one female.]
Musashi: "Whoa... Sensei?"
[Zhongli turns around and saw the trio is coming at him. He welcomed them with a smile.]
Zhongli: "Oh? I didn't think I would see you all here."
Musashi: "What are you doing here, sensei? Of all places..."
Zhongli: "Well... I just having a meeting with my fellow friend."
????: "Are these two your friends?"
Zhongli: "Yes, we had the fortune of meeting those three not too long ago. They are quite a knowledgeable and talented pair, and a pleasure to be around."
[And the female one stands up and introduce herself to Musashi and the others.]
????: "My name is Wanyan. It's nice to see you three."
Musashi: "Hi, Miss Wanyan."
Lumine: "It's nice to meet you."
Paimon: "By the way... What are you all talking about?"
[Zhongli chuckled a little.]
Zhongli: "We were just discussing the history of Rex Lapis. Would you like to listen?"
Musashi: "Wow... Rex Lapis, huh?"
Lumine: "This is a serious topic."
[Then, a man named Hanxue decides to speak.]
Hanxue: "This good sir seems to not appreciate the almighty power of the Lord of Geo."
[Musashi silently giggled... Because all of them didn't know what Zhongli is Lord Of Geo himself.]
Hanxue: "As a professional archaeologist, I am to correct some of his erroneous views."
[And the trio just sweatdropped after hearing Hanxue's reason.]
Lumine: "Uh... Actually, he is-"
Musashi: "Well, all i know is... If you want to know about History, archeology, or anything related to Liyue..."
*SMACK!*
Zhongli: "Ouch..."
Musashi: "Zhongli-sensei is the best person to ask."
[Musashi patted Zhongli hard on the back. However, it was a form of support from Musashi for Zhongli.]
Musashi: "And since you are archeologist... What are you all trying to discuss here?"
Hanxue: "We are discussing the whereabouts of the first Mora."
Lumine: "What?"
Paimon: The "first Mora"?
[And... the other man named Yixuan decides to speak.]
Yixuan: "As everyone knows, the Lord of Geo taught the ancient people of Liyue the craft of smelting, creating goods that allowed them to develop trade with the early nations of that time."
Musashi: "Yes. That's true."
Yixuan: "Today Liyue holds the sole right to cast Mora in the entire continent of Teyvat. The world's very first Mora should have been cast by the hands of the Lord of Geo himself thousands of years ago."
[Then, Wanyan decides to intervene.]
Wanyan: "According to my research, as well as my own hypothesis... I believe that this coin of unique historical significance has been passed down secretly through the years as a kind of token. For example, perhaps the Qixing who control Liyue use it in some kind of unknown ceremony they hold when they come to power..."
[Hanxue shakes his head thrice. All eyes turned to him.]
Hanxue: "No, no, no... My research indicates that the first Mora coin is not such a simple thing."
Musashi: "Uh... And that is?"
Hanxue: "Mora is a catalyst - this we all know. Even today, Mora is used in the mystic arts for its curious properties of weapon enhancement. The world's first Mora would no doubt possess the strongest power. My next historical treatise will boldly expound on the newest findings from my intense, decade-long research! That is, that the Lord of Geo used this original Mora as a catalyst to enhance a dagger and a sword!"
[Hearing Hanxue's long explanation, Lumine couldn't help but smile nervously. Meanwhile, Musashi could only scratches her hair because she knew that Hanxue's theory wasn't completely correct. As for Paimon... She is really confused.]
Paimon: "A dagger and a sword?"
Hanxue: "Well, buy the book when it comes out to read the full story. For now, I will only reveal this: the one who finds the dagger shall become supreme in Liyue, and the one who finds the sword may be crowned Liyue's sovereign-"
Zhongli: "I... can't say I agree."
Hanxue: "Hmm?"
[Zhongli shakes his head twice as he did not agree with Hanxue's theory.]
Musashi: (Hoo boy...)
Zhongli: "Let us not speak of the authenticity of the dagger and sword first... But Mora and money came about simply because they are a convenient measure of a contract's value. Rex Lapis just meant for Mora to serve as a "catalyst" for people to exchange and trade. The world's first Mora is probably just an ordinary coin created by Rex Lapis. As for its fate? The same as all Mora, I suspect... It was simply spent somewhere."
[But, Yinxuan find it hard to differ.]
Yixuan: "Hmm... I think that Mr. Hanxue's hypothesis seems reasonable. Mr. Zhongli's argument, on the other hand, lacks any evidence. How can you so easily dismiss the Lord of Geo's profound foresight?"
Zhongli: "No, I am not debating right or wrong. I am simply stating a fact."
[And... Hanxue's emotion has reaches it peaks because of his theory has been debunked by Zhongli. And he crossed his arms in anger.]
Hanxue: "Enough! Do you think you understand the Lord of Geo more than me!?"
[Lumine, Paimon and Musashi just sweatdropped on the spot.]
Lumine: "Uh... Actually, he is..."
Musashi: "Well, like i said... No one knows better than him..."
Zhongli: "I know but little about history and I wouldn't dare to brag. But discussion is meaningless if everyone has the same opinions, no?"
[Yixuan and Hanxue didn't back down so easily. So, they decides to ask something crucial.]
Yixuan: "Well then, answer me this: Long ago, when Liyue Harbor was being constructed, the Lord of Geo taught the people how to build houses. The model home he used to teach them was completely cast from Mora, correct?"
Zhongli: "That is correct, indeed."
Hanxue: "Okay then, tell me: Why would the Lord of Geo do something so extravagant if not because of the mystical power that Mora contains?"
[And keep calm as always, Zhongli already has his answer.]
Musashi: "Oh boy..."
Zhongli: "There's a simple explanation, really. To the God of Wealth and Commerce, what material is easier to get than Mora?"
Hanxue: "Oh... Huh..."
[And instantly, both Hanxue and Yixuan cannot answer back Zhongli's rebuttal. Musashi whistled in excitement as Lumine is amazed by Zhongli's knowledge... about himself.]
Musashi: "Wow... Good rebuttal, sensei. I think i can learn that from you."
Lumine: "It's like you're telling someone else's tale."
Zhongli: "Hehe, I mean... I am talking about Rex Lapis."
[While Hanxue and Yixuan are arguing among themselves... Wenyuan, the one that didn't say a word from the beginning... Decides to approach Zhongli and the others.]
Wanyan: "Excuse me, sir! Uh... I have some questions about archaeology. Can we find somewhere quiet to chat? I mean, if it's okay with you."
Zhongli: "Oh, it's no problem at all. But may my friend accompany us? Perhaps they could be of some help."
[Zhongli pats Musashi's and Lumine's shoulder after being recommended.]
Lumine: "Wait, us?"
Musashi: "Eh~? I'm just here for a good story."
Wanyan: "Of course, They can come if that's what pleases you, sir. Let's go."
[And... Lumine, Paimon and Musashi just looked at each other with a small giggle. And, the three of them agreed to help Zhongli and Wanyan. Then, they walks to the stern and having a private conversation.]
Musashi: "Alright. We're here."
Wanyan: "What I'm about to say is a bit disrespectful of the Lord of Geo and would draw a lot of angry looks... so it's best to discuss this somewhere quiet.
Lumine: "And... What's on your mind?"
[Wenyan clear her throats before she tries to talk something important.]
Wanyan: "Your argument just now exhibited acuteness of speech and thought. Most importantly, you don't fall for the boasting and acting of the others. You remain objective. So, I have a question for you, perhaps you will answer differently from other scholars..."
Zhongli: .....What is it?"
Wenyan: "Do you think that all the gods that the Geo Archon killed were evil?"
[Wenyan's question took Lumine and Paimon a little by surprise. But, Musashi and Zhongli remained calm even, as they both already knew the meaning of Wenyan's question.]
Zhongli: "...Let's not analyze it in terms of good versus evil. Rex Lapis placed great importance on the integrity of contracts, so any gods he killed certainly must have broken some kind of contract."
Paimon: "Right, the Lord of Geo wouldn't kill the innocent."
Lumine: "Rex Lapis is the God that build and protect Liyue from the start."
Wanyan: "But when I was doing some research, I learned about the legend of the God of Salt."
Musashi: "What?"
Wanyan: "The God of Salt, Havria, was a very kind god, but she encountered Morax one day in battle... And Morax used a rather underhanded trick to... assassinate her."
[Again, this revelation caused Lumine and Paimon shocked a bit.]
Paimon: "WHAT!?"
Lumine: "N-No way..."
Zhongli: "This... this bit of history is a long story. But you may not like the truth when you hear it."
Wanyan: "Don't worry, please tell me what you know! This event... I have already searched for answers for a long time."
[Wanyan keeps forcing Zhongli to tell the truth about Havria's incident. Zhongli seems reluclant to tell Wanyan the truth of it.]
Musashi: "Wow... You look a bit embarrassed, sensei."
Zhongli: "No, It's just... Where should I begin?"
Lumine: "Is the story that complicated?"
Zhongli: "Quite so. I don't know where to begin."
????: "Hey, over here! Mr. Zhongli, I've been looking for you! So you were over here all this time."
[But then... A man with short mocha-colored hair approaches the group. Because he wears Fatui's uniform, Musashi holds tight the tilt of her katana.]
Lumine: "The Fatui!?"
Musashi: "What do you want!? Spit it out, now!"
Paimon: "Put down your weapon and stay back! Otherwise... Paimon's reporting you to the Millelith!"
[Feel offended and scared at same times... That man decides to man up and speak.]
????: "Kliment: Ugh... There's no need to overreact, now. My name is Kliment, and I'm simply an archaeological research from Snezhnaya, I'm not here for trouble."
Paimon: "Hmph! The Fatui say that every time."
Kliment: "But this time, I registered with the Liyue Ministry of Civil Affairs. I could show you official documentation if you want to see it."
[And Kliment shows the group his official documentation from Liyue Ministry of Civil Affairs. It was real document. But even so, Musashi and Lumine still cannot trust that man.]
Kliment: "I will be conducting an archaeological survey here, the results of which will all be shared with the Ministry."
Musashi: "Uh... So?"
Kliment: "I heard that Wangsheng Funeral Parlor had a consultant named Zhongli with immense knowledge of ancient history and archaeology. So, I paid Wangsheng Funeral Parlor a handsome amount to hire Zhongli as my own consultant while I'm in town."
Zhongli: "So, you mean to say that this is work for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, yes?"
[Kliment nods twice. Lumine, Musashi and Paimon seems didn't know what to do now.]
Musashi: "So, What should we do now? Are we in or out?"
Lumine: "Well... I think it's best to be cautious. We don't know what this guy is planning."
[But for Zhongli... A work is a contract that must be fulfilled.]
Zhongli: "Well since it's work, I don't have a choice. A consultant of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor must respect their duty."
Kliment: "Of course, you would be such a reasonable man! Well then, let's head out now, shall we?"
Zhongli: "Let's-"
Wanyan: "Wait!"
[Before Kliment could walk away, the group was stopped by Wanyan. She seems intrigued by this job.]
Wanyan: "If you are studying archaeology, can I go too? I am also a scholar in this field so I can help."
Zhongli: "Oh, right. That will give us a chance to continue the topic we were just discussing."
[Then, Zhongli's eyes turns to the trio.]
Zhongli: "And three of you should tag along too."
Lumine: "Why?"
Musashi: "I don't really know anything about archaeology."
Zhongli: "This experience may be of help to you on your future adventures. It is a story from before the rise of The Seven... Although the God of Salt has already perished, it will still be a meaningful experience for your journey."
[Due to Zhongli's invitation, Musashi, Lumine and Paimon decided to go along. But, Kliment looked displeased and opposed to Zhongli's idea.]
Kliment: "This is- Wait, this is an archaeological expedition, not a tour group! That's too many people."
Zhongli: "But, this friend of mine has a treasure-finding talent surpassed by no one. It will surely be of great help to us."
Kliment: "Oh? What talent?"
[Zhongli walks and stand behind both Lumine and Musashi. Then, he pats their head from behind.]
Zhongli: "If my friend espies a treasure chest, they will absolutely find a way to open it."
Paimon: "Hey, Paimon's good at that, too!"
[Then, both Lumine and Musashi are looking at Paimon with their mocking smile.]
Musashi: "Hee~"
Lumine: "Is that so...?"
Paimon: "W-Why are you two looking at me like that?"
[And... their mocking smile are getting wider.]
Musashi: "Nothing... It's just..."
Lumine: "Since when are you good at finding treasures, Paimon?"
Paimon: "O-Oi! Like Paimon said! Paimon can find treasure in the blink of an eye!"
[And, Lumine and Musashi could only giggle after mocking Paimon.]
Paimon: "Ah moou! How could you two mocked Paimon like that!?"
Musashi/Lumine: ".....Ehe~"
Paimon: "Ehe Te Nandayo!?"
[Lumine, Musashi, Zhongli and even Wanyan laughes at Paimon's sulking. On the other side, Kliment just sighed as he doesn't have a choice.]
Kliment: "Well, let's go. There's no time to waste. When the Overlord of the Vortex was crushed by the Jade Chamber recently, perhaps something of interest was washed ashore... An ancient artifact would be good, traces of ancient activity would be great, but a piece of the god's limb would be even better... Who knows what surprises we many find...?"
[Hearing that, Musashi and Lumine just sighed as they know Kliment is a man that full of greed.]
(Later...)
[And later... They finally arrived at Guyun Stone Forest. It is an archipelago of seven large islands and smaller offshoots.]
Paimon: "So, this is Guyun Stone Forest, huh?"
Lumine: "It looks more like small islands than forest."
Musashi: "According to legend, this is where Rex Lapis defeated a God and sea monster known as Osial, and the jagged cliffs protruding from the islands at Guyun are in fact the remnants of the stone lances he used in that battle. It seems that those who spend the night at Guyun Stone Forest may experience Osial's memories of its defeat, whether this is caused by Osial's power or another phenomenon is unknown."
*CLAP!* *CLAP!*
[Hear Musashi's explanation. Both Lumine and Paimon clapped. They also smile. Even Zhongli smiles as he nods in satisfaction.]
Paimon: "Hehe~ We have a new historian!"
Lumine: "As expected from our Wandering Samurai! She knows better than us!"
Zhongli: "I have to agree with Lumine and Paimon here. You've learned a lot, i see."
[Because of that... Musashi blushed and hid her face in embarrasment.]
Musashi: "Q-Quit it, you three! You're embarassing me!"
[And again... the four of them laughed at Musashi. But Kliment is looking around. He seems unimpressed at that place as he crossed his arms.]
Kliment: "This place looks so ordinary... Can we really find anything valuable here?"
Paimon: "Huh? Paimon thinks it looks really grand!"
Kliment: "I don't mean the scenery, but rather that there should be something out of the ordinary. A big battle did just occur and all... And I don't even know where to begin looking here."
[But Zhongli shakes his head as he disapproved.]
Zhongli: "Guyun Stone Forest is actually the perfect place to be if you wish to learn about the Archons or the history of the Archon War. Legend has it that Rex Lapis threw spears made of large rock into the sea here, piercing and crushing the Overlord of the Vortex. After many years of wind erosion, those stone spears have turned into the unique rock formations we see now."
[Paimon shocked after knowing all of that is Lord Of Geo's weapon.]
Paimon: "Th-These mountains were the Lord of Geo's weapons?"
Lumine: "I-Incredible..."
Musashi: "Wow... Rex Lapis is really strong, if i say so myself."
Zhongli: "What we see now is just the part of them that remains. The stone spears hurled by Rex Lapis all those years ago were much greater, both in number and in size. But, due to the different angles they landed at, their large centers of mass, erosion by seawater, and years of gravity, many of them have been completely swallowed by the sea. So, besides wind erosion, the initial collapsing of the stone spears also played a big part in the formation of Guyun Stone Forest."
[And... Musashi claps her hands after hearing Zhongli's history lesson.]
Musashi: "As expected from you, sensei! You should open a school and teach Liyue's children!"
Zhongli: "Haha~ I'm not fit to teach childrens. It should be you. After all, You have learn a lot under me."
[Kliment seems changes his mind after hearing Zhongli's explanation.]
Kliment: "Well... A god able to fight one so powerful that Rex Lapis was certainly very strong in its own right."
Zhongli: "Indeed, this is where the value lies in research at Guyun Stone Forest. Most of the objects from that time were lost to the sea, but the gigantic waves created by the Overlord of the Vortex have given those sunken objects a chance to see the light of day again."
Kliment: "So, you're saying that if we look carefully, we'll be able to get very, very rich-"
[When Kliment says "rich", he feels dark glare from Lumine, Musashi and Paimon. He gulped in fear and try to change the word.]
Kliment: "Uh, I mean - rich with archaeological knowledge and historical value, yes? That's all I seek in life. Well, since we brought so many people, I think it would be best to split up and look."
Zhongli: "Okay then, I will go with my friend here. Although I have a smattering of knowledge in various disciplines, when it comes to archaeology, I can't compete with the expert here."
[Then... all eyes turn Wanyan. She confused for a bit until she realized that Zhongli is talking about her.]
Wanyan: "Huh? M-Me?"
Kliment: "What's the matter? This is your profession. Why are you so surprised?"
[Wanyan feels offended by Kliment's taunt. She decides to go for it.]
Wanyan: "I get it... I'll escort him, then."
Zhongli: "Okay. If we find anything valuable or rare, let's meet on the shore opposite from here."
[And the groups has split in two... Group 1 consists Kliment and Wanyan, while group 2 consists Musashi, Lumine, Paimon and Zhongli.]
Musashi: "So... What do we do now?"
Zhongli: "The ancient god probably left behind lots of elemental marks. Following them should make our search much easier."
Paimon: "Alright then! Lumine, Use your Elemental Sight to look for any marks!"
Lumine: "Okie-dokie! Let's do this!"
(20 minutes later...)
[After twenty minutes of searching (and fighting), The group found a mysterious stone tablet and an old sack. And, as the group went into the designated location, they found Kliment and Wanyan are arguing among themselves.]
Kliment: "...You call yourself a scholar of archaeology? You can't even recognize this or that, what are you good for!?"
Wanyan: "We all have our areas of expertise! I already tried very hard to explain!"
[And... Musashi and Lumine decides to stop the fight by standing between both of them.]
Musashi: "Whoa! Whoa! Relax!"
Lumine: "Chill out, you two!"
Paimon "Stop arguing! What in the world happened?"
[In anger, Kliment points his finger at Wanyan.]
Kliment: "This girl just kept bragging about how she's an archeologist, but she doesn't even know anything about the surrounding ruins! I even know more than her! She left me to rely solely on my guessing - I mean, experience - to find anything valuable to take back. Ugh, what a waste of time!"
[Offended, Wanyan tries to explain to defend herself.]
Wanyan: "I-I've just been researching the God of Salt, so I'm not familiar with the sea relics. Is that so strange!?"
Musashi: (Well... It is strange.)
Makoto: "Yes, it is."
[Makoto (in her spirit mode) appeared beside Musashi.]
Musashi: (You know something?)
Makoto: "Call it a hunch... But i think this woman is not an archeologist."
Musashi: (Wait... You mean...)
Makoto: "Follower of Havria."
[Musashi nods silently as her eyes fixed on Wanyan. The debate is still continue as Wanyan points her finger at Kliment.]
Wanyan: "And you! You kept asking about how much Mora everything is worth! Can the value of relics only be measured in Mora!?"
Kliment: "Uh... I mean, isn't measuring their value in Mora the easiest way? This also matches the traditions of Liyue, does it not?"
[Not wanting the debate to escalate... Zhongli decided to mediate between the two of them.]
Zhongli: "Now, now, calm down, no need to make a fuss. We were able to bring back some intriguing objects. Let's have a look."
[And the group decides to check the mysterious object that they collected so far. And...]
Zhongli: "These objects were indeed washed ashore by the Overlord of Vortex, but they have nothing to do with the god besides being in the vicinity at the time."
Musashi: "Oh, all of this are duds, huh?"
Zhongli: "Not at all. This stone slab we found, however, has a mysterious pattern and faint aura of divine power. Perhaps it will be useful for research purposes."
Kliment: "Quick, give it to me!"
[Kliment took the stone from Lumine's hand by force.]
Lumine: "Hey!"
Kliment: "Hehe, at least we didn't come for nothing. The power of gods, yes! This is good... Oh, but these other objects are certainly worth a little something right? It should be enough to cover the cost of hiring you - it's all mine!"
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
[Tick marks appeared on both Lumine and Musashi's head. They both started to get impatient with Kliment's greedy attitude.]
Lumine: (I want to beat this guy's face to a pulp.)
Musashi: (I really want to skin this person until there is nothing left of it.)
[Feeling the dark aura from both of them, Paimon quickly changes the topic.]
Paimon: "Sooo... it's only valuable for research if there are remnants of divine power on it?"
Wanyan: "Not at all. My quest to uncover the history of the God of Salt is because history can tell us about culture and beliefs..."
[Still angry, Wanyan points her finger at Kliment once again.]
Wanyan: "But YOU... You're just trying to use archaeology to get rich!"
Kliment: "W-What!? Nonsense! I'm a professional archaeology researcher from Snezhnaya, I swear. If I'm lying, may the Lord of Geo strike me down!"
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
[This time, the tick marks on Lumine and Musashi's head has just got doubled. And their irritation on Kliment had just got doubled.]
Lumine: (No, you're trying to get rich off archaeology... )
Musashi: (Or you're trying to collect the strength of the gods...)
[On the other hand, Zhongli looks at the teacup that Kliments held.]
Zhongli: "Oh, by the way. You probably don't want to sell that teacup."
Kliment: "Oh, why's that?"
Zhongli: "That's not an ancient teacup. It's part of Ningguang's collection, it must have fallen here along with the Jade Chamber. So unless you want to mess with the Qixing..."
[Instantly, Kliment shivered in fear. And...]
Musashi: "Hee~"
Lumine: "Oh~ I see it now..."
Wanyan: "See!? You do want to sell these objects!"
Kliment: "S-So what! Why can't I pursue wealth both intellectual and material? Don't be so simple minded!"
[Kliment manages to keep his cool.]
Kliment: "Alright then! No need to stay here any longer. Hm. I'm rather quite intrigued by the God of Salt too, actually. Let's go to Sal Terrae next."
Zhongli: "Alright then..."
[And their next destination... Sal Terrae, where's God Of Salt resides.]
(Later...)
[After a long walk... They finally arrived at Sal Terrae.]
Musashi: "So, this is Sal Terrae."
Lumine: "Beautiful.. But..."
Kliment: "I heard that Sal Terrae was once the home of the God of Salt's people. Therefore... There are sure to be loads of valuable relics nearby."
[As Kliment chuckled at himself. Zhongli looks at the entire place. And...]
Zhongli: "According to legend, the people of the God of Salt, Havria, enjoyed prosperous lives under her protection. But this legend has been around for ages. With the countless scrap collectors and Treasure Hoarders in the area, there probably aren't many valuable things left here."
[Kliment sighed as he thought his journey to this place is nothing but a joke.]
Kliment: "Gah, that's just great... If I knew it was picked this clean before, I wouldn't have come."
Wanyan: "About that, I know there's a ruin deep in this cave here. It's related to the God of Salt, which is actually how the area originally got its name of Sal Terrae."
[Then, all eyes turned to Wanyan as she explains.]
Wanyan: "However, the ruin entrance has been sealed by a mysterious power. Nobody has been able to break the seal. I found a mechanism that seemed to be related to the seal. But when I undid the mechanism, the seal wasn't affected at all. So, at the moment, the seal's origin and how to break it are very important topics in my research on the God of Salt."
Lumine: "So... Is it related to the God of Salt's people?"
Musashi: "Or maybe... Is it related to Rex Lapis?"
Wanyan: "I don't know, there's no concrete evidence. But I'm pretty sure the seal is meant to hide some kind of long-forgotten truth. The God of Salt was a benevolent god adored by the people, not to mention powerful. She wouldn't have any kind of shameful secrets to hide. So... The one who wants to hide some truth is very possibly her killer, Morax."
[Silently, Musashi clenched her fist in anger. She cannot hold her anger after her master being insulted like that. But fortunately, her anger subsides after her hand being held by Makoto.]
Makoto: "Musashi... Calm down. Don't let your anger clouds your judgment."
Musashi: (....Yeah. I know.)
[Even better, Lumine knows Musashi is trying to hide her anger. And she grabs Musashi's other hand.]
Musashi: ".....Thanks."
Lumine: "Anything for you."
[Musashi's anger has completely gone, thanks to Lumine and Makoto. But...]
Paimon: "This doesn't sound like something the Lord of Geo would do, though..."
Kliment: "Who cares about all that? It sounds like countless treasures of the God of Salt lie within this ruin, just waiting for someone to find them, right!?"
*PLAK!*
[Both Musashi and Lumine slap their own head, thanks to Kliment's ignorance. Wanyan shook her head in disappointment.]
Wanyan: "You weren't listening at all, were you? Argh... Even if there's a mountain of treasures inside, nobody can get in if the seal isn't broken."
Kliment: "Ah, but we have the illustrious Mr. Zhongli with us! He looks like he knows just about everything - a little seal shouldn't be any trouble for him."
Wanyan: "This seal seems to be quite ancient. Even Mr. Zhongli may not know all of its secrets..."
Zhongli: "Well... I may know something about it."
[Wanyan is shocked after Zhongli said that.]
Wanyan: "Wh-Whaaat!?"
Zhongli: "Well... Over the years, I've heard various rumors with bits of knowledge about seals. Although their references seem rather disorderly, they do in fact contain the secret to breaking seals."
Musashi: "As expected."
Zhongli: "Let's go take a look at the mechanism Miss Wanyan just mentioned."
Wanyan: "Okay, since Mr. Zhongli says so... Follow me, then."
(30 minutes later...)
[And for thirty minutes, the group manages to break some mechanism that sealed the entrance of the ruins.]
Wanyan: "Look! The seal really was broken! Mr. Zhongli is indeed quite remarkable!"
Zhongli: "It was nothing, really. Now, it's time that people learn the hidden truth lost in time."
[Now, the groups found themselves at the entrance of the ruins. But before the go inside...]
Zhongli: "Before entering the ruin, I have a proposal that will help us prevent the kind of senseless arguing between you two that we saw at Guyun Stone Forest."
Wanyan: "Okay, what is it?"
Zhongli: "I propose you two agree upon a contract, stipulating that we alternate who gets claim to each treasure we encounter, with only one object permitted per claim. And, to show my sincerity, I won't be taking any treasure - this will just be between you all."
[And... Musashi and Lumine nods as well.]
Lumine: "I won't take any either."
Musashi: "Same here."
Paimon: "Heyyy! Don't pass an opportunity like this up so easily!"
*BLETAK!*
Paimon: "ITTE!!!"
[Musashi punched Paimon hard on the head until it lumped. Lumine just giggled nervously at the sight.]
Paimon: "Huee~ So mean!"
Musashi: ("Shut up, idiot!")
[And...]
Kliment: "I don't agree! I mean... you want me to split the treasure with this amateur archaeologist? No, absolutely not!"
Wanyan: "I don't agree either! Hmph, he will only defile the precious relics left behind by the God of Salt! I-I can't accept this."
[Zhongli sighed as Kliment and Wanyan did not agree with his proposal. And...]
Zhongli: "Well then... If the contract is not agreed upon, I will no longer serve as your consultant on this expedition. You will have to rely on your own experience to find whatever treasures are hidden in this ruin, as well as traps."
[And Zhongli's threat manages to scare off both Wanyan and Kliment. They cannot proceed without Zhongli. And so...]
Kliment: "Y-You have the audacity to demand this... Okay then. Even half of the treasure in the long-sealed ruin of the God of Salt should be enough to make a fortune."
Wanyan: "If you want me to agree upon this contract, so be it... I just have one request, Mr. Zhongli. If we discover the truth behind the God of Salt, you must judge it fairly, even if the truth harms Morax's image."
Zhongli: "I can accept this arrangement."
[Zhongli looks at his student and her friends.]
Zhongli: "And, the three of you serve as witnesses in this agreement. I hope you three didn't mind."
Musashi: "Fine by me."
Lumine: "Same as me."
Paimon: 'Paimon agrees!"
[And after all parts has agreed with Zhongli's proposal, they all went into the ruins. And when they got inside... They saw almost all of the ruins were covered in salt.]
Musashi: "So, this is the place."
Lumine: "It's kinda creepy out here."
Paimon: "Yeah... Paimon feels eerie."
[As they walk... They encounter some statues in front of them.]
Lumine: (These statues... appears to be made of salt)
[And even worse... they found towering white figures in the ruin...]
Wanyan: "A-Are these... statues?"
Zhongli: "No. These are people."
Kliment: "Urgh..."
Zhongli: "They were probably followers of the God of Salt."
Kliment: "How did they become this way...?"
Wanyan: "What in the world is hidden deep in this ruin...?"
[As they went deeper... Question after question starts coming into their head. They're keep exploring the ruins. They saw salt everywhere. And then, they found a chalice.]
Wanyan: "Look at this. It's filled halfway with salt."
Kliment: "Just looks like a fancy salt holder. Seems like the God of Salt was a god lacking in treasures."
Zhongli: "According to my knowledge, it's no ordinary vessel. Although it is only half-full, it is also forever half-full - that is to say, it is bottomless."
[Both Kliment and Wanyan shocked after hearing Zhongli's explanation about this strange chalice.]
Kliment: "What!? You're saying that even if I pour the salt out, the amount inside won't change!?"
Zhongli: "Exactly."
Wanyan: "Able to produce endless salt... The God of Salt is powerful indeed!"
[Musashi fall in thought for a moment. To be exact, she feels bad for Wanyan.]
Musashi: (If only you know what has really happened to Havria.)
[Swiftly, Kliment grabs the Chalice, causing ire from Wanyan.]
Kliment: "Finally, after all that effort, I've found precious treasure! I claim this as mine! I just need to pour the endless salt into a thousand, or ten-thousand bags... I can sell it and make a fortune!"
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
💢💢*TWITCH!* *TWITCH!*💢💢
[And this time... Musashi and Lumine angered has just got tripled after hearing Kliment's greedy words.]
Wanyan: "Hey! How can you use a relic of the God of Salt for such a shallow pursuit!?"
Zhongli: Well... If Mr. Kliment wants this salt chalice, then the next object we find will belong to Miss Wanyan, according to the contract agreed upon."
Kliment: "Of course, as we agreed. Hehe, but how can anything be worth more than this rare find?"
Wanyan: "Since we have a contract, it's no use for me to fight with him..."
Zhongli: "Then let's move on, shall we?"
[And so... They moved on. They go deeper. And then... They found something... A strange ruler.]
Musashi: "A ruler...?"
Kliment: "Ha, just a simple ruler. Doesn't look to be worth anything."
Wanyan: "This... If I remember correctly, this is some kind of measuring tool."
Zhongli: "Indeed. But the God of Salt imbued it with another power. When you stick this ruler in the ground, the surrounding area will become covered in salt, much like a rising tide covers the earth. The deeper it is stuck in the ground, the more salt will appear. It is essentially a "bumper harvest" of salt."
[Kliment shocked to his core after hearing this Ruler's ability from Zhongli.]
Kliment: "Th-That's even better than the salt chalice!"
Zhongli: "Well then, according to our contract, the salt ruler goes to Miss Wanyan."
[And Kliment, with his greed, cannot accept that easily.]
Kliment: "No! Unacceptable! I paid for and organized this entire expedition. Why should I get the short end of the stick! And this girl has been useless. Why should she get anything!?"
[Kliment tries to get his hand on the ruler, but...]
Lumine: "Wait!"
*SRING!*
[Musashi swiftly stands between Kliment and the ruler. She draws her katana and points it to Kliment.]
Musashi: "Back off!"
Kliment: "Urgh..."
[For some reason, Zhongli's ire begins to rise. Because he hates contract to be broken.]
Zhongli: "So, you are saying, you want to break the contract?"
Kliment: "So what if I break it? Now that I've seen how the mechanisms in this ruin work, I no longer need you. Let's not forget who hired who here. Why should I let you make the rules?"
[Musashi's aura starts coming out. And even Zhongli didn't hesitate to hurt Kliment.]
Zhongli: "Because you agreed to a contract. Rex Lapis once said: "Ones who break their contracts shall suffer the Wrath of the Rock."
Kliment: "That is one of your Liyue gods. I am from Snezhnaya, I-"
Zhongli: "-Will "suffer the Wrath of the Rock" - you may find it rather unpleasant."
Musashi: "And... It's gonna hurt."
*WUSH!*
Kliment: "WHA-"
*BUAGH!*
[Musashi shot up and threw a very hard punch to Kliment's face. Kliment was thrown away and slammed into the wall.]
Musashi: "Hehe~ How do you like that?"
[Kliment just stand back and wipes away the blood on the side his mouth.]
Kliment: "Heh... How about THIS!?"
*WUSH!* *WUSH!*
[Kliment throws away two knife towards Musashi. And when the knife almost reach her...]
Lumine: "HAH!"
*TANG!* *TANG!*
[Lumine swiftly slashed all of Kliment's blades. Then, she stood beside Musashi.]
Lumine: "I've had enough of your greed! Now, you must accept the punishment!"
Musashi: "Alright! Let's get them!"
Kliment: "Urgh!"
*WUSH!* *WUSH!*
[Kliment throws another knives. But, this time... he aimed it to Zhongli.]
Musashi: "Sensei!"
Zhongli: "Foolishness."
*FLICK!* *BRUAGH!*
[Zhongli flickes his finger and stone shiled appeared in front of Zhongli and defends him from Kliment's knives.]
Zhongli: "Now!"
*WUSH!*
[Lumine runs fast towards Kliment.]
Kliment: "Tch! Damn-"
Lumine: "Too slow!"
*BUAGH!*
[Lumine kicks Kliment at the stomach. He fell backwards while protecting his stomach.]
Kliment: "Tch! I'm not done-"
*WUSH!*
[And, suddenly, Lumine appeared in front of Kliment. His fist gave off a yellowish glow. And...]
Lumine: "Have some of this!!"
*BUAGH!*
Kliment: "GUAHK!!!"
[Lumine hit Kliment with her Geo Fist and Kliment was sent flying into the air. And...]
Lumine: "Musashi!"
*KHING!!!!*
[And... Musashi is already floating in the air, above Kliment!]
Musashi: "And this!!!"
*BRUAGH!!!!*
Kliment: "ARGH!!!"
[With Anemo's power, Musashi delivered a death blow to Kliment's back. Kliment fell to the ground, and the Chalice he was holding rolled to Zhongli's feet.]
Lumine: "You deserved it!"
Musashi: "Eat that, sucka!"
[Kliment slowly raise to his feet. His body is bloody and he is even hard to move.]
Zhongli: "I shall confiscate your treasure as well. You are not worthy to continue any further into the ruin. Leave this place."
Kliment: "Darn you... Just you-"
*SRING!*
[Musashi took out a small piece of her katana... And smile darkly.]
Musashi: "Leave... Now..."
Kliment: "HIIIIIII!!!!"
[Kliment immediately ran headlong while pissing his pants. Musashi put back her katana fully to it's scabbard.]
Paimon: "Some "archaeological survey..." He could only pretend for so long."
Lumine: "At least we had our guard up."
Paimon: "Yeah, good thing Paimon can smell a liar from a mile away."
[Zhongli grabs the Chalice.]
Zhongli: "Kliment's wrongdoing stemmed from greed, yes. But besides greed, there are many other things that may tempt us to break contracts. When people see the object of their dreams, how many are really able to control their desire and follow the contract...?"
[Musashi sighed... She scracthes her hair in frustration.]
Musashi: "Alright, sensei... Let us cut off this bullshit, shall we?"
Zhongli: "Oh...? What nonsense you just mentioned, Musashi?"
Musashi: "What i mean is... Not all of us is telling us the truth."
[Paimon and Lumine seems confused by Musashi's words.]
Paimon: "W-What do you mean by that, Slime's Lover?"
Zhongli: "What she mean is... Not a single member of this archaeological expedition, came here for archaeology."
Wanyan: "Wh-Why do you say that?"
[Both Musashi and Zhongli glares at Wanyan.]
Zhongli: :Miss, you lack even the most basic archaeological knowledge and can recognize naught but a few simple relics. However, you are an expert when it comes to anything regarding the God of Salt."
Musashi: "In fact... I already had my doubt about you from the beginning of this expedition. And i was right..."
Zhongli: "You aren't interested in archaeology or relics - what you're really interested in is the God of Salt. I believe those legends about the God of Salt that you mentioned on the Pearl Galley are passed down between generations at Yinyuan Hall.".
Wanyan: "Okay, that's enough!"
[Wanyan yelled loudly at the others. But then... She manages to calm down after taking a deep breath.]
Wanyan: "Sir, you are indeed a man of great knowledge and talents. I seem to have been right to seek you out, once I plucked up my courage."
Musashi: "....."
Wanyan: "You're right. I'm not a scholar of archaeology. I come from one of the Eight Trades under the jurisdiction of the Qixing - Yinyuan Hall of the salt industry. Our ancestors were those protected by the God of Salt all those years, when the Archon War engulfed the land in chaos."
[And as expected... Wanyan is one of Havria's follower. At the same time, Lumine realized something.]
Lumine: "Come to think of it, I've never heard you say "Rex Lapis"..."
Paimon: "Oh right. Now that you mention it, the people of Liyue very seldom use the name "Morax"..."
Wanyan: "During the war, Morax assassinated our god out of envy for her power! He left us alone and lost in the world. We... We hate him! But this is Morax's Liyue, after all, and its history is written as he wishes... So, I seek proof of Morax's guilt! He has blood on his hands, and cruelty in his heart!"
[Musashi sighed. She thought all of this... Is just because of vengeance. Then, Wanyan looks at Zhongli with eyes of plead.]
Wanyan: "We agreed to a contract that we will face the truth head-on, didn't we Mr. Zhongli!? You must judge this history fairly!"
Zhongli: "Naturally, of course. But I must add, Liyue is no longer Morax's Liyue. Now, Come with me. All the answers you seek lie ahead."
[And then... They go even deeper. They stop at the last altar at the ruins. And there... They found a sword that broken in half.]
Musashi: "This sword..."
Wanyan: "Aha! It's a broken sword, this is proof! This proves that the God of Salt had to fight back, fight back against the evil Morax! But sadly, she was defeated... The power of this sword surely is much greater than that of the salt chalice and salt ruler! If we can repair this sword, then we can show the world the mighty power of the God of Salt..."
[Musashi sighed once again. Lumine is keeping an eye on her girlfriend that keep sighing all this time.]
Lumine: "....."
Paimon: "Hmm... It does look like something left behind after being defeated in battle."
Zhongli: "Two pieces of a broken sword. From an archaeological perspective, these are two separate relics. According to the contract, you can only claim one."
[Wanyan shocked as she disagreed.]
Wanyan: "Wh-Why? We were alternating claims to treasure, true, but Kliment is no longer here..."
Zhongli: "Yes, but the "only one object per claim" clause still holds true. You cannot take two relics at the same time."
Wanyan: "Th-This logic..."
[For some reason, Paimon feels bad for Wanyan. She tries to make reason with Zhongli.]
Paimon: "Erm... Zhongli, she seems like a good person, and no one is fighting over treasure. How about you let this one slide, huh?"
Musashi: "That's not how it works, Paimon. In Liyue... We have to honor the contract... No matter what."
Zhongli: "When there's a contract, nothing can be allowed to "slide." If the contract is not followed, then it is broken."
[Wanyan feels tricked because of that. And she cannot accept it.]
Wanyan: "No! If I only take one half, then it can't be repaired, and the power of the God of Salt cannot be restored... No matter what, I must be faithful to her... Even if it breaks the contract, I don't care."
[Zhongli knows Wanyan's loyalty... So, that only means one thing...]
Zhongli: "So, you are already decided? Hmm... Then, there is a price to pay for breaking the contract."
Paimon: "Zhongli!"
[Wanyan closed her eyes... She is ready to accept her punishment.]
Wanyan: "That... That's okay. The God of Salt gave up her life to protect her people. My sacrifice is nothing compared to that. Punish me however you want. Just let me take this proof of my faith!"
*SRING!*
[Instead of Zhongli, Musashi decides to act. Musashi took out and shows half of her katana.]
Paimon: "No! Slime's Lover! Don't do that!!!"
Lumine: "Musashi! Stop!"
Musashi: "....."
*CTAK!*
[Musashi put back her katana back to it's scabbard. Lumine and Paimon were a little relieved. But...]
Musashi: "Killing you... Or hurting you wil just be an act of mercy."
Zhongli: "As punishment, I will tell you the truth."
[Wanyan seems confused a bit.]
Wanyan: "Huh? The truth? You mean the truth is my punishment?"
Zhongli: "Yes. The truth that I am about to tell you shall be your price to pay for breaking the contract."
[And the truth of Havria... Will be Wanyan's punishment.]
Zhongli: "I'm afraid to say that the God of Salt, Havria, was not the powerful god you imagine her to be. Rather, she was a small and weak god who yielded to all other gods. When it came to war, she lost... never able to win a seat among The Seven."
Wanyan: "Wh-What...!?"
Zhongli: "During the Archon War, the gods of this world used all their strength and cunning to vie for control of Teyvat. But Havria instead chose to flee. She thought that by giving up before a fight could start, she could save herself and her people from the war. However, during such a long war, there is no end to the advances of aggressors. After making countless concessions, Havria had lost all of her lands until only one small have remained."
[Wanyan shocked to her core. She cannot believe it... At all.]
Wanyan: "No... no... it can't be so..."
Zhongli: "In her last days, she had not even a single blade to defend her people with."
Wanyan: "Not even a single blade?" Then, this sword..."
Zhongli: "This sword is not a relic belonging to the God of Salt... but is instead the murder weapon used to kill her."
Musashi: "In other words... Her murder weapon."
Wanyan: "Murder weapon?"
[And Wanyan cannot accept this. She feels anger because she thinks she has been manipulated.]
Wanyan: "No! That's not true, that can't be true! You are trying to test my faith in the God of Salt!"
Zhongli: "As I said before, I only state the facts."
Wanyan: "Preposterous! Y-You are a follower of Morax, don't try to trick me!"
[Wanyan cannot accept Zhongli's words. She storms off further into the ruin...]
Paimon: "Hey! Heyyy! Come back!"
Lumine: "What you said really is true, right?"
Zhongli: "Indeed. Otherwise, why would I use the truth as punishment? I did not want to tell her such cruel facts, but the contract was broken..."
Lumine: "And you know all of this, Musashi?"
[Lumine and Musashi are looking at each other. Musashi choose not to answer Lumine's question. At the same time, Lumine already got her answer.]
Zhongli: "Let's follow her deeper into the ruin. There, I fear, we will find something that will leave her no choice but to face the truth."
[And... They decides to catch up with Wanyan. As they proceed... They found a lot more of statue.]
Paimon: "Are these statue thingies... running? What will we find ahead?"
Zhongli: "Salt. And betrayal."
[And... They found Wanyan stands in front of the door... She seems in despair.]
Wanyan: "...What are all these? What did they see... What did they do? What... What happened?"
Zhongli: "Since you do not trust me, let us continue onward. That which lies beyond this door will show you all that happened back then."
[And the door opened. At the end of the ruin, you see motionless white figures, their postures suggesting they are battling to escape. In the center of the room, the one they ran from has disappeared, leaving behind only traces of white salt...]
Zhongli: "This is the scene of the crime. Havria's body dissipated, leaving nothing but these traces of salt. Her dying moments have since been frozen in time to this very day."
[Wanyan widened her eyes in shock. She cannot believe the truth at all.]
Zhongli: "The story continues that some among her people realized at last that this gentle, kind but weak god could never protect anyone in wartime. The Archon War was cruel in the extreme. Instead of consigning her to the agony of defeat, they thought, perhaps it would be better to give her a quick release.
Paimon: "But what about these statue thingies?"
Zhongli: "No matter how weak the god, the power that flows forth when they are slain is beyond the strength of mortal coils to bear. Those who could not flee were thus transformed. Those of her people who were untouched by this disaster left for Liyue, where they sought refuge with Rex Lapis. Their descendants feared Havria's remnants and lived in terror that she had laid upon them an eternal curse... So they risked their lives to come here to break the sword, and offer up obeisances in hopes that her anger might be appeased. But they need not have done so. For how could a god who had never once resisted - even till the end - nurse hatred for her people in her heart?"
[Tears starts flowing out from Wanyan's eyes. She has fall into despair after learning the harsh truth of Havria's death.]
Wanyan: "This must be a lie... a false history... all of it! Don't you dare try to... shake my faith!"
[Wanyan starts to run. But, she was stopped running when Musashi's grabs her arm.]
Wanyan: "Let me go!"
Musashi: "Wanyan... I know how it feels... I know how it feels after you lose something or someone that is precious to you."
Wanyan: "Kuh..."
Musashi: "You lost your beloved god. I understand that... Because I've been through worse than you."
[Lumine remembers that words... And Paimon also remembered.]
Musashi: "I have lost forty thousand comrades in the war. They died..."
Paimon: (WHAT!?)
Lumine: (F-Forty Thousand!?)
Musashi: "Rather than you keep crying over your god that won't come back... It would be better if you get up and focus on your future."
[Wanyan shoves away Musashi's hand and ran away in despair. Leaving the others behind.]
Paimon: "Yikes, Zhongli and Musashi didn't show any mercy this time, either..."
Zhongli: "This is the price she must pay... Yet I would not call it a bad thing. Judging by how she appeared, I fear that she will struggle for a time. But even if she may not escape that struggle immediately, simply recognizing the truth is good enough for now."
Lumine: "You seem all too familiar with what happened to the God of Salt."
Zhongli: "Indeed. In ages past, Havria's story served as a warning to me as well."
[Zhongli sighed a bit after what has just happened. And...]
Zhongli: "Faith in a god who has already passed will do you no good. So it is for Havria, and so it is for Morax also."
Lumine: "The people of Liyue will understand that one day."
Zhongli: "Alright, then. Now, would you like to accompany me in taking a trip to Guyun Stone Forest?"
Paimon: "Huh? What do you want to do, Zhongli?"
Zhongli: "Treading old ground, telling old stories... One cannot help but be reminded of old acquaintances."
[Both Zhongli and Paimon decides to leave the ruins. Now, it's just Musashi and Lumine.]
Lumine: "Musashi..."
Musashi: "I'm fine, Lumine..."
[But Lumine knows it's all lies. She can tell from Musashi's eyes. She is really hurt right now.]
Lumine: "Lies... You're lying to me."
Musashi: "....Heh... Nothing can past you, huh?"
*CLICK!*
[Tear falls out from Musashi's eyes. Lumine swiftly hugs her lover to calm her.]
Musashi: "....."
Lumine: "Let it all out, Musashi... I'm here. You don't have to worry. No one is going to see or listen."
[And... Musashi's body trembled in Lumine's arms. She is crying... This is the first time for her crying in this world.]
Lumine: "Let it go..."
Musashi: "It's... it's hurts... Dammit!"
Lumine: "Just let it go... Let it all out. Cry until you are satisfied."
[Musashi keeps crying and crying. She cannot control her tears anymore. Lumine could feel Musashi's pain and sadness. And... she keeps crying for ten minutes... And...]
Lumine: "Musashi..."
[Musashi wipes away all of her tears.]
Musashi: "Thanks, Lumine... I really need that."
Lumine: "Anything for you. Now, you don't have to hold it yourself anymore."
Musashi: "....."
Lumine: "Because i'm always be by your side... Forever."
*CHU!*
(A/N : Imagine Lumine kisses Musashi like this.)
Musashi: "Ummh~ ❤️"
Lumine: "Humm~ ❤️"
[And Lumine lands a lovely kiss at Musashi's lips. And that lovely kiss marks the end of this sad expedition.]
(Later...)
[After that happened... Both Lumine and Musashi keep their kiss a secret from Paimon. And now, the trio along with Zhongli is back at Guyun Stone Forest.]
Zhongli: "Now, I mentioned before that many gods of old have been sealed beneath the Guyun Stone Forest. The adepti have presently handed Liyue over to mortals, and Havria's time was even further in the past. The salt chalice and salt ruler that she left behind should not return to Liyue. To leave them here is to let them slumber, and it is also a homecoming..."
Lumine: "So, what you want us to do?"
Zhongli: "I ended an era with my own two hands. I have always wondered how I should... remember that which I ended. History records, but history may be changed. This incident proved that. Time is a mighty force, and histories twist in its flow... I need to find a better way of recording history in order to engrave its truth. Stone carvings were one such ancient method. But unchanging stone, immovable earth, even one such as myself... Someday, we may all disappear."
[Zhongli's words caused grief at the trio. So, even Gods will meet their end soon, like humans does.]
Paimon: "Zhongli..."
Zhongli: "Therefore, I thought of you two."
Musashi: "Wait... Us?"
Zhongli: "You are one who crosses the celestial atlas, and who passes through countless worlds. If our history is engraved in your memory, it will one day accompany you into another world. As long as Travelers like you two are able to record what happened, then a backup of sorts will exist for times and tides of Teyvat."
Lumine: "So, that's why you wanted us to come with you."
Paimon: "Sounds like tough work."
Musashi: "So, you didn't just bring us along to find treasure, huh, sensei?"
[Zhongli just laughed softly at Musashi.]
Zhongli: "Hahaha... Well, may you find treasure among the stars even after you have left Teyvat. Now, I am the God of Wealth, so I would think that my words have some weight here. Now then, it is time that we consigned both the salt chalice and salt ruler to the sea."
[Paimon is confused after Zhongli said that he wants to throw it all away.]
Paimon: "Huh? Why do we need to throw them into the sea?"
Zhongli: "As I said before... This is the place to which the remnants of many bygone gods are consigned. This includes Osial, Overlord of the Vortex, who the Jade Chamber most recently returned to this ocean prison..."
[Gazing down at the blue ocean surface and the jagged backdrop of Guyun Stone Forest... Zhongli is ready to cast away those relics.]
Zhongli: "Thousands of years ago, the adepti and I fought against the turmoil that plagued every corner of this land. Guyun Stone Forest, where I sealed many gods with my spears... After so long, naught but folktales remain. Osial... you and I were foes... But our ancient grudge is but a bygone memory now."
[Zhongli looks at Lumine. She is holding the salt chalice and salt ruler. Zhongli cast away those relics and those relics are just flying away and drown in front of the middle of the sea.]
Zhongli: "May that which Havria has left behind be yours to subsume.
Zhongli: Thus another spark of divinity departs from Liyue. My legacy shall now be left for those who come after to debate."
[And after that all happened... Zhongli wants to be alone... Reminiscing the past. Musashi and the others respect Zhongli's decision and let him have his moment alone. They all went back to the Liyue Harbor.]
(20 minutes later...)
(Liyue Harbor)
[Now, the trio is finally arrived back at Liyue.]
Paimon: "Phew! Finally back!"
Lumine: "What a journey. At least i have learned something valuable."
Musashi: "That's good to know."
[And... They are walking around town. But Musashi feels strange, because...]
Musashi: (Strange... Why is there so much dust on the streets?)
[And Musashi found it even more strange because the people didn't realized it yet. And to make things even strange...]
Musashi: (Whoa... the dust didn't budge after being stomped!)
[And... Musashi looked at the dust flying around her.]
Musashi: "Hey, Lumine! I forgot something! You should go back first!"
Lumine: "Eh? What?"
Musashi: "I'll be right back!"
Paimon: "Oi, wait!"
[Musashi runs away to follow the trail of that dust. Leaving Lumine and Paimon behind.]
Paimon: "W-What was that all about?"
Lumine: "Uh... I don't know."
[And so... Musashi follows the trail of that dust. She has been running around three miles. And then, she finally arrives at Guilli Plains, where the trail end.]
Musashi: "H-Holy crap... This is already far enough from the city."
[After regain her breath, Musashi realized... This place is Guilli Plains.]
Musashi: "Hold up... If i remember correctly... This place is-"
????: "Yahallo!"
Musashi: "WHOA!!!"
*BRUGH!!!*
[Startled, Musashi fell to the ground hard.]
Musashi: "Ow... Ow... Ow..."
????: "Hehe~ I knew it! Only you can notice the flow of dust from Liyue Harbor all the way here."
[And... Musashi is looking at girl that floats in front of her. She is a young woman with billowing sleeves. She has long, flowing grey hair that fades into a cerulean-blue. The back side is partially chopped in a bob-length fashion and the rest is tied into a rat-tail with a long dark-blue hairpin. The front is cut into neat, slightly side-swept bangs and is finished with a small dangling hair accessory. She has long, shoulder-cut, billowing sleeves that covers her hands. The inside of the sleeves is adorned with the pattern of a starry night sky. Her outfit's color palette seems to resemble that of a Glaze Lily, as it is in many hues of white, blue, navy, and grey. There is even a Glaze Lily embroidered on each of her sleeves. The tails of her dress seem to appear to fragment at the ends, mirroring the nature of dust, being her association. And, Musashi is really surprised when she found out that the girl in front of her right now, is none other than...]
Musashi: "Y-Y-You are-"
????: "Hehe~ I'm Guizhong! Known as Goddess Of Dust! It's nice to meet you, Musashi Miyamoto-chan!"
-------------- End Of Chapter 21 -------------
[A/N : That's the end of Chapter 21 of Genshin Impact : Shattered Void. In this chapter, The trio found Zhongli at Pearly Gallery and talking about Mora. But then, they found Kliment and asked Zhongli to be his advisor for this expedition. But, the expedition went badly as they slowly found out the truth of Havria's death, which leaves a mark at Wanyan's heart. In the end... Everything went well... But, Musashi found a girl (in her spirit form) named Guizhong at Guilli Plains. Who is this Guizhong? What will happened next? Find out at the next chapter of Genshin Impact : Shattered Void. You can vote the story if you like it, and you can ask me anything you want through comment.]
[P.S : Musashi's Current Relationship :
1. Lumine : Crush (Both Sides)
2. Paimon : Best Friend
3. Raiden Makoto : Best Friend
(Monstadt)
4. Venti : Crush (One-Sided Love)
5. Jean : Crush (One-Sided Love)
6. Lisa : Crush (One-Sided Love)
7. Amber : Crush (One-Sided Love)
8. Kaeya : Friend
9. Diluc : Best Friend
10. Eula : Rival & Crush (One-Sided Love)
11. Sucrose : Crush (One-Sided Love)
(Liyue)
12. Keqing : Best Friend
13. Ganyu : Crush (One-Sided Love)
14. Xiangling : Best Friend
15. Xiao : Friend
16. Ningguang : Acquaintance
17. Wang Yuanji : Acquaintance
18. Zhongli : Teacher & Student
19. Xingcai : Acquaintance
20. Qiqi : Friend
21. Baizhu : Acquaintance
(Fatui-Snezhaya)
22. Childe : Distrust
23. La Signora : Arch-Enemy
(That's all, folks! KeysOfVoid out!)