A Caged Bird's Freedom

by Nightfire1023

Summary:

What was freedom to someone one like him?

A monster, a tool, a demon to everyone's eyes.

He prays for death to come when his master provokes the Geo god.

but he's not that lucky.

This will be a very long winded "Morax saves Xiao." Type story that I hope you'll come check out.

Notes:

Hello readers!

I'm back with another Genshin story, this time about Xiao!
This first chapter I think isn't all that great, I kind am using it to just set up the setting for the story, I still hope you'll check it out. Sorry if it's a little wonky. I'll probably edit it later.

As always let me know about mistakes found and what you think.

Chapter 1

The Demon of Shǎndiàn.

 

There have been many rumors about the beast that fights for the Electro using God, Shǎndiàn. 

 

All of them started shortly before the war between gods started across Teyvet.

 

The story tells of a Monster that consumes the dreams of mortals, leaving nothing behind but empty husks of people.

 

They call it a fate worse than death.

 

It was hard to gauge how true the rumors were. After all, the Demon leaves no survivors or anyone who could describe it.

 

Bodies were the only evidence left behind from its attacks.

 

Most of the rumors came from word of mouth from servants and warriors who fled Shǎndiàn’s territory and rule.

 

Some came from the occasional witness who was fortunate enough to be far enough away to be noticed, or managed to hide well enough to not be caught in its bloody path.

 

One came from a guy who is more often than not, drunk.

 

Putting them all together you’ll get a story.

 

From the refugees, they call the Demon “Shǎndiàn’s most loyal servant. Completes every order given to it without hesitation.”

 

From the lucky viewers, they tell a story of “A green flash of death and despair. There one moment, gone the next.”

 

From the one drunkard, “ A terrifying face befitting a monster. Eyes sharper than a tiger's.”

 

With tensions increasing between the Guili Assembly and Shǎndiàn’s forces, people grew wary and concerned. They worry because the Demon of Shǎndiàn went from only attacking within Shǎndiàn’s borders, taking out people and villages that has whispers of fleeing or rebellion, to attacking the towns and villages on the very edge of the Assembly’s borders.

With the new attack patterns came new rumors.

 

And Morax’s fury.

 

Before, Morax was content to let Shǎndiàn be as long as his own people were not caught up in her attacks, but now that’s changed alongside the rumors of the Demon.

 

What caused the rumors to change were survivors.

 

Everyone had theories and opinions on the matter..

 

Some believed it to be a scare tactic, to bolster Shǎndiàn’s pride and power.

 

Others believe the Demon was becoming arrogant and sloppy.

 

The survivors were quiet about it. The event, still fresh in some of their minds, left them conflicted, injured, and unsure of what they believed.

 

They all said the same thing however.

 

The Demon was a young looking male. Half his face is covered by a mask. Appearing and disappearing in flashes of green wisps. Most were dead before they even realized it, a spear running though bodies in the blink of an eye.

 

Morax never took much stock in rumors. Over the course of the passing years he’s heard many rumors and stories, some true, some false, but they all had the same thing in common. 

 

There was always more to the story than what was told.

 

The changes to the Demon of Shǎndiàn’s rumors made him curious. But the war made it hard to investigate the matter.

 

With a call to arms thanks to Shǎndiàn’s attack, he might find the answers he sought when he takes down Shǎndiàn.

 

Morax watched from his balcony as his forces gathered and prepared.

 

They were heading out soon.

 

They were just waiting on Bonanus’ and her scouts to come back with what they find near the border.

 

Morax himself was preparing with his Adepti and Yakshas. Both as the head of the Assembly and as the one spearheading the fight.

 

Going over the reports from each faction, things were looking good.

 

Streetward Rambler, Moon Carver, and Guizhong have helped restock the medical supplies for the troops and well as the supply for the healers.

 

Menogias, Cloud Retainer, and Mountain Shaper, have all upped the city’s defends, just in case Shǎndiàn chose to have some of her forces advance while the bulk of his were marching out.

 

Bosacius and Indarias had trained the troops and worked on getting the long range fighters and the close range fighters working on new attacks and training, as well as getting all the soldiers armed and geared.

 

Together his three present generals, Guizhong, and himself came up with several strategies and back up strategies.

 

Shǎndiàn’s territory was to the south of them, bordering the sea on one side and mountains on the other,

 

Azhdaha and Marchosius would be staying back to act as a last line of defense should anything go wrong during the attack.

 

Morax watched the sun dip behind the mountains. When Bonanus returns they’ll have one more war meeting before heading out.

 

Bells rang in the distance. Catching Morax’s attention.

 

Bells mean one of two things depending on their pattern. Quick-paced hits signal enemies, while slow means returning forces.

 

The bells were slow paced, signaling a return.

 

That didn’t seem right, Bonanus and her scouts were the only part of the forces out and weren't due back until the next day or so.

 

She would only return if they were attacked or a problem in recon occurred.

 

Concerned, Morax jumped from the balcony, turning to his dragon form and flew to the city gate.

 

Bonanus was dragging the two scouts into the city. Both were obviously injured but alive. Bonanus herself looked fine as she handed off her men to the group of healers that rushed to the gate as a precaution.

 

“Bonanus!” 

 

The other three generals seemed to have also rushed the gate. Not surprising given they all are close. They too were probably concerned at the scouts’ early return.

 

Morax landed, drawing everyone’s attention.

 

“Bonanus.” He rumbled, gaining the generals' attention “Report in once you've settled.” 

 

“Of course, sir.” Bonanus bowed to him.

 

He studied her for a good moment. She seemed shakened but unharmed. Her face held conflict and confusion.

 

“I’ll call a meeting,” Bosacius told him. “To go over the information Bonanus got.”

 

“In the morning.” Morax told him. “We’ll gather after the scouts and Bonanus have rested from their mission.”

 

With that, the crowd disappeared. Bonanus followed behind her scouts, wanting to make sure they’ll be fine. Menogias accompanied her.

 

“My lord.” Bosacious  slightly bowed to him. “I’ll go double check our perimeter to ensure everything is as it should be.”

 

Bosacius and Indarais left at that, leaving Morax to take back to the sky.

 

After that, time went by in a blink, noon arrived and the meeting was summoned.

 

Guizhong met him at the door to the war room and three of his Yaksha sat around the table. Bonanus was pacing slightly, thinking about what to say.

 

“Bonanus.” Morax started, stopping the Yaksha’s pacing. “Start with what happened.”

 

She closed her eyes and took a deep calming breath.

 

“We encountered the Demon of Shǎndiàn.”

Chapter 2

Notes:

Next chapter!

hope you like it.

Now before people get confused, yes, i jump back in time just a little, no you are not missing a chapter.

enjoy and let me know what you think.

“Remember, If we encounter any of Shǎndiàn’s force, we are to not engage if it can be helped.” Bonanus explained.

 

She, along with three of her scouts, were checking the border of their land. She had other scouts out about right now, some spying inside the border, some just keeping an eye out for enemies.

 

They were at war after all.

 

Bonanus’ goal today was to try gather any actual information on the Demon of Shǎndiàn, Something they can actually use to fight it rather then rumors.

 

Most of the towns along the border have long been abandoned. 

 

Decrepit building looked like they’d crumble at a touch. Gardens and farms overgrown and retaken by the wild. A river washing over the shores, its dam busted, letting water cut through part of the area. Wind broke the silence and stillness of the area, an echo to the life left behind.

 

“If the Demon shall appear.” Bonanus warned her men. “You are to stay still and hidden.”

 

“Yes ma’am!”

 

Her men saluted before returning focus to the town.

 

Based on reports, escaping civilians pass through here the most. The reports were based on recounts of people who managed to successfully cross the borders.

 

They spread out. Each picking a spot to explore, watch, or investigate.

 

Bonanus, being an Adeptus with elemental affinity, was graced with elemental sight. 

 

Letting the world darken a bit she began to see what was hidden.

 

She looked around, looking for anything out of the ordinary. The water gave off a blue tint of Hydro, the grass glowed green with Dendro, all normal.

 

What wasn’t normal however, was the swirls of Anemo covering the area. 

 

They didn’t flow together like most Anemo traces would. They were concentrated and abrupt. Nothing like how Anemo normally behaves. Almost like that whatever caused them just appeared and disappeared.

 

It lines up with parts of the rumor...

 

So the Demon had an affinity for Anemo it seems.

 

That was good to know, Anemo was good at dispersing elemental reactions with a Swirl but did so little on its own, and against Geo, had no effects.

 

“General!”

 

Bonanus’ snapped to where the yell came from.

 

Yelling was not recommended during scouting, especially since they had enemies that can kill in a near instant.

 

So they must have found something.

 

Making her way to her scout, Yu, She immediately understood.

 

Hidden behind some shrubbery that had grown inside one of the abandoned buildings was a woman and two children. 

 

They were scared, more so when Bonanus got closer, and looked very tired. 

 

More refugees from Shǎndiàn’s territory.

 

“Yu.” Bonanus addressed her scout. “Get them back to the assembly, and take the long way if you have to.”

 

Yu gave her a salute and held his hand out to the women, who took it. Bonanus watched as he and the woman each picked up a child before taking off back towards the city. 

 

With them deeper into Morax’s land, the Demon would be less likely to go after them.

 

But left her with a big problem.

 

With escaping citizens the Demon, without a doubt like all the others, would be chasing them.

 

Bonanus looked around, trying to see if she could spot her other two scouts, Ling and Zhang.

 

Her vision met red and she ducked down.

 

Both her scouts laid sprawled on the ground, gashes across both their chests.

 

She couldn’t see the Demon but the elemental sight showed only one new Anemo swirl.

 

That means it was still here.

 

Bonanus held her breath when she heard a sound.

 

A small figure came into her view from the side and she could see why people called him a Demon.

 

He was small, and skeletal. Bones jutted out where his skin clung to him. A dark face mask designed to look like sharp teeth adorned the bottom half of his face, covering his actual mouth and nose. A bruise swollen closed one of his eyes, but the other was sharp gold, piercing yet dulled at the same time. His hair, long, black, matted, and untamed hung over his shoulders, giving him a wild looking appearance.

 

He had no shoes, and no shirt. A pair of old, raggedy pants, held up by a tied rope, was the only clothing he had. Black bangles adornded his wrists, ankles, and neck

 

What caught most of her attention however, was the injuries. The Demon was walking slowly, as if he was forcing his body to move. Scars and opened wounds decorated most of his body, partially his chest and back. They were gruesome. The paleness of his skin made them look worse. Or maybe they were just that bad.

 

She looked back to his eyes and froze.

 

He was staring right at her.

 

…

 

He didn’t do anything. Just stared. Could he actually see her or was just so happening to be staring in her direction. 

 

He looked tired, she noted, before he flinched his eyes away from her, staring at something else.

 

Bonanus watched him. He just stood there before closing his eyes and disappearing in a swirl of green.

 

She calmed herself down for a moment, using that time to make sure he was gone. The second she couldn’t sense him, she ran to her two downed men, only to sigh in relief, their injuries were not fatal.

 

She looked back to the spot the Demon stood only a few moments ago.

 

Understanding.

 

---

 

He was sent to kill the family of a usurper. His wife and kids according to his Master. Master said they would be hiding near Morax’s land.

 

He could not disobey.

 

When he got there he was glad to find the family not there. Instead there were three members of Morax’s forces. Two mortals and a Hydro Adeptus.

 

He took the two Mortals down in an instance, his lance slicing their soft skin faster then they could blink. He was careful, making the wound bleed a lot yet not enough to cause concern.

 

He can’t disobey, but he can try.

 

He watched the Blue Adeptus watch him. Studying him. 

 

He didn’t care.

 

He was no fool. He knew of the wars brewing. The fight his Master was stirring. A fight, if the stories he’s overheard from mortals, that was a losing battle.

 

He had little warning when he felt a tingle crawl up his spine. He tore his eyes away from the hiding Adeptus and gazed off to the side, Purposely avoiding getting her back in his field of vision.

 

‘Have you finished?” his Master's voice whispered in his head.

 

He didn’t respond back, at least not with words. She took his thoughts.

 

‘Come back now!’

 

He closed his eyes, feeling the pull of his Master.

 

She was not happy he failed.

 

He teleported back, never sparing another glance to the Adeptus, appearing in his Master’s throne room, and dropping into a bow.

 

She paced back and forth, her whip, crackling with Electro energy snapped at him as she waved it back and forth.

 

He didn’t react as the electricity sent tingles across his skin at the strikes of the whip.

 

“You killed two of Morax’s men!” She snapped at him. Whip striking his back. “You have ruined my plans!”

 

Another strike cracked against his skin. Adding to the collection of injuries, still he did not react.

 

He did not plead, he did not cry, or shout or anything.

 

“Go to your room .” She demanded. “I’ll make you regret, everything .”

 

The room.

 

The room is where he stayed until she came in, holding something in her hands. Something he did react too.

 

Something he craved yet had him backing into the corner, trying to get as far from it as possible.

 

It…was…hazy…

 

His eyes closed, not able to fight anymore.

Notes:

Hooo, what did I pick for that mystery... thing? that He's scared of.

Anyhoo, hope you like it.

also parts of this was written at like, well past my bed time, so let me know id there's mistakes or parts that are confusing or makes little sense.

please let me know what you think, all feed back is good feed back.

Chapter 3

Notes:

New chapter yay!

I had a lot of debate with what to do with this chapter, but hey, I finally got it done.

I hope you enjoy the chapter, please let me know what you think of it.

Morax was furious.

 

Starting the day after Bonanus’ report, and the minor attack on her scouts, Shǎndiàn had started actively attacking the bordering villages with her generals and the Demon.

 

It drove more and more people north, away from the area of attack and into the Guili Assembly.

 

Between the sudden attacks and the influx of refugees and citizens it was very hard to retaliate.

 

It set back the preparation they had between sending aid to the attacked villages and increasing patrols.

 

Thankfully, Guizhong, Marchosius, and Moon Carver were able to organize a small volunteer group of mortal civilians to help with settling all the newcomers and regathering supplies, which left Morax and his generals and their forces to do the fighting.

 

It took a week to organize the problems well enough for Morax to leave the Assembly with little protection.

 

A week of lost lives, razed villages, and blatant mayhem.

 

Morax had every right to be furious as he leads the charge across the border.

 

Shǎndiàn’s reign would end today.

 

Her palace stood center of her lands, tucked in front of a mountain. It was smaller than Morax expected but was surrounded by her army, ready to fight.

 

Shǎndiàn herself was not present among her generals. Nameless mortals and weak Adepti who did her bidding in hopes of gaining favors, gifts, and power from her.

 

Morax watched them from high in the air. They gathered in the circular plaza waiting for the first move to be made.

 

He scanned the enemy line in front of him. He did not see anyone matching the description of the Demon. His own generals stood ready below him. Their mixed forces of mortals and Adepti will have very little problems with Shǎndiàn’s forces, which were mostly mortals. 

 

They were just waiting for him to start.

 

And he obliged.

 

Morax called upon his powers, summoning several decent sized meteors, dropping them across the area. Shǎndiàn’s forced scattered as the rocks rained downs. His generals rushed forwards as well, meeting the opposing generals head on.

 

He turned his attention to the palace. Shǎndiàn was most likely watching everything from her throne room.

 

He rushed forwards himself, breaking through the wall as opposed to simply walking in, not wanting to give Shǎndiàn time to either hide or run from him.

 

Spears and Halberds bounced off his Jade Shield almost immediately once he entered the room. Morax looked at the dozen or so humans who attacked him. He saw the fear in their eyes when their attacks failed.

 

Taking his own spear, he swung it around, knocking them all away from him before meeting the eyes of Shǎndiàn.

 

Shǎndiàn was a fairly beautiful goddess, with long black hair and eyes that crackled with electricity. She gave off the air of unperturbed but Morax can see the sweat running down her back. She hadn’t been expecting to meet him head on so soon.

 

Her outfit was adorned with purple silks and teal and gold feathers decorated both her hair and her accessories. She held a fan to her lips, trying to hide the worry on her face.

 

“Morax!” She drawled his name. “I would ask you what reason you had for visiting me but I sense you're in no mood for games today.”

 

“I’ve come to end your reign.” Morax told her, taking calm steps towards her, spinning his spears around. “You have crossed several lines and must atone for your actions.”

 

“Hmm we’ll see about that.”

 

Her fan flicked closed and all of a sudden another spear bounced off his shield.

 

Before him stood a pitiful creature. Based on the description Bonanus gave him, he was looking at the Demon.

 

However, something seemed off.

 

His actions were jerky, and unrefined. His eyes were manic, and wild, yet unfocused, like a cornered animal.

 

Morax deflected the attacking spear once more.

 

He had opened wounds that dripped blood onto the marbled ground.

 

The Demon lunged again, causing Morax to step to the side. The Demon’s attack should have missed when all of sudden one of his arms twisted, catching Morax’s own arm with the sharp claws on hands, leaving small gashes bleeding against his darken arm.

 

Morax watched as the Demon released muffled growls and shook his head as if he was trying to shake off a thought.

 

Before Morax could think about it more, he was being lunged at again. This time however, Morax used a burst of power to knock the Demon back, sending him into the wall and crashing to the floor, dazed.

 

He waited a moment, to watch the next move, but the Demon laid just laid there, limbs twitching like he wanted to move, but couldn’t.

 

Content that the Demon was out of commission, Morax turned his attention back to Shǎndiàn, whose face took on anger and fear. 

 

Morax rushed forward, spear aimed for her heart. It was going to strike true until Shǎndiàn swung her fan in front of her, not as if to attack but as she was pulling something, with a frustrated scream.

 

Green filled his vision. Morax tried too late to change the course of his aim once he realized what had happened.

 

His spear, still full of thrust, hit true but not Shǎndiàn. 

 

No, instead the Demon was the one he hit. Spear buried in the small chest. Morax froze for a moment as he processed what happened and to not move his weapon. He had no intention of killing the Demon until he could pass judgment on him.

 

A gasp behind him broke Morax out of his moment of shock. Menogias and Bonanus came to his assistance, only to witness this gruesome moment.

 

“You worthless beast.” Shǎndiàn snarled at the Demon,  “Go to your room , I’ll deal with you later.”

 

Morax watched as the Demon, who had no reaction to being speared, pulled the blade out of his own chest and disappeared in that flash of green.

 

Morax, shaking of the remainder of the shocking accident, turned his harden gaze to Shǎndiàn.

 

He held no mercy, striking her down as she prepared to attack him. This time his blade remained true, piercing Shǎndiàn’s heart with no hesitancy.

 

She let out a scream as her body dissolved and her spirit and power exploded out, rocking the palace.

 

“Clear the place out.” Morax turned to his generals, “Find the Demon and take care of any remaining opposing forces.”

 

He turned on his foot, transforming as he did, and flew back out of the hole he made in the wall and up to the sky.

 

Morax let out a roar of victory, letting everyone know that he was the winner.

 

Metal clanged to the ground as Shǎndiàn forces surrendered, most if not all, happy about her defeat. He returned to Shǎndiàn’s palace, Bocasious and Indarias joined him.

 

“General Musatas, report back to Lady Guizhong and inform her of our victory.” Morax addressed Indarias. “Marshal Vritras, have your men spread out and take stock of the citizens, I want to know about the state of the land. Have General Musatas’ forces help General Chizapus and Xinyuán’s forces with their tasks.”

 

Bocasious and Indarias gave a respectful bow. Indarias left to do their assigned tasks.

 

“My Lord.” Bocasious spoke up. “What of the Demon? Bonanus was eager to make contact with him again.”

 

“He’s somewhere inside, I’m sure.” Morax let out a resigned sigh. “Shǎndiàn made him go somewhere after I wounded him.”

 

“Is he a threat?” his Marshal asked, worried for his family. “Or is he too wounded?

 

“Anything can pose a threat if backed into a corner.” Morax told him, taking a step toward Shǎndiàn’s dropped artifacts. “If he does not care for the wound I gave him, then it may prove fatal to him. Adepti or not.”

 

Morax crouched down. The only things remaining from Shǎndiàn was a pile of accessories, her fan included.

 

“Something seemed off when we fought.” Morax started picking up the pieces. “I don’t know what it was but it seemed like he wasn’t the one in control.”

 

Something slipped out of Shǎndiàn’s fan. It fluttered to the floor, simmering lightly in the light.

 

A flower?

Notes:

SO what did ya think?

Let me know if you find any mistakes or if something doesn't make sense.

All feedback is good feedback and helps me make the story and helps me improve my writing.

Hope you enjoyed and stay tuned.

Chapter 4

Notes:

Ta-da here's another chapter.

Quick note here: For those who don't know, Madam Ping's Adeptus name is Street-ward Rambler.

Hope you enjoy it, part of it was written on my phone because I was away from my computer for a bit so let me know if there are any mistakes or awkward parts.

Also researching this era and these characters are fun...(not really) there is so little information on everything T-T

Anyways, on to the story.

It’s been three days since Shǎndiàn’s defeat.

 

Three days and they still haven’t found the Demon’s room.

 

The palace wasn’t very big compared to Morax’s own palace and every room has been checked and cleared out, including the dungeon.

 

Moarx loathed to think that there was a secondary location in which this room could be located.

 

“Are you sure he didn’t just flee?” Guizhong asked as Morax paced in front of the empty throne. “He does have quite the reputation behind him, he might have just left before we realized it.”

 

“No.” Morax stopped pacing. “He was too injured to have had enough energy to make it anywhere.”

 

Morax stared at the wall behind the throne, pulling up a mental map of the palace. There had to be a hidden room somewhere.

 

“What are you thinking about?” Guizhong swung around in front of him.

 

Morax said nothing as he stepped towards the wall with a frown. He ran a hand across the drapery and tapestries that hung from the wall.

 

“What is it?”

 

“What room shares this wall?” Morax asked her.

 

“Hmm.” Guizhong hummed in thought no doubt also going over the known layout of the palace in her head. “Nothing. There aren’t any doors leading to right behind the wall.”

 

“So what’s behind it?” Morax questioned.

 

He pulled at the wall decor, causing them to fall to the ground with an echoing clatter. The stone wall was smooth, and blank. Nothing seemed out of place, but Morax was sure there had to be a hidden room somewhere. Shǎndiàn was arrogant but also used tricks to get what she want or to get people to obey her.

 

It would not surprise anyone if she had a hidden room or two planned out in her palace.

 

“Check for a hidden mechanism.” 

 

Guizhong nodded and with being the great inventor she is, shall be a great help in locating a way to a hidden room.

 

Morax’s gut was telling him something was near. He always trusts his gut, he has changed much since meeting Guizgong but he was still a warrior who’s instincts were for survival.

 

He found nothing on the wall, even using elemental sight revealed very little.

 

He looked around the room, hoping for something to seem out of place, but nothing of the sort happened.

 

Morax looked at the throne next. It was very gaudy. Made from pure silver and jade twisted in intricate patterns and designs.

 

Morax sat in the chair. Maybe looking at the room from Shǎndiàn’s perspective would reveal something.

 

Nothing stood out at him about the room from the seat. Other than Guizhong also having very little luck.

 

Bringing a hand to his chin, he looked down, thinking. 

 

Wait.

 

Something caught Morax’s eye.

 

On the backside of one of the armrests was an inlaid piece of Cor Lapis.

 

It was so out of place, standing out against the sliver.

 

Morax adjusted himself, laying his arms along the rests.

 

His thumb aligned with the stone just right, so he pressed on it.

 

The sound of sliding stone met his ears and he turned around to see an opening appear behind him.

 

“You found it!” Guizhong rushing back over in a mix of intrigue and anxiousness.

 

“So it would seem.”

 

They made their way to the new doorway. The narrow hall it led to was dark, revealing nothing about what it contained.

 

“Ugh, it smells.” Guizhong put a sleeved hand to her nose.

 

The smell was that of iron and rot. 

 

A foreboding sign.

 

Morax stepped forward into the dark, hoping to find the Demon, yet couldn’t help the dread that it was too late to offer help to the soul that Bonanus wanted saved.

 

Guizhong clung to his arm as they walked, as if something would jump out at them, yet not in a way that would hinder him if he needed to block an attack.

 

The hall ended in another door. This one was not locked but Morax still hesitated in opening it.

 

Guizhong suddenly let out a small scream and jumped to the other side of him.

 

Reacting, rather than thinking, Morax summoned his spear and got ready to strike… A rat…

 

“Sorry.” Guizhong apologized when Morax gave her a flat look. “It ran across my foot.”

 

Morax kept his spear in hand as he returned his attention to the door. 

 

When he opened it he had to pause. The smell of iron saturated the air and for good reason.

 

“What is it?”

 

Guizhong tried to squeeze past him to look but he shot an arm out stopping her.

 

“Go fine Rambler.” Morax told as calmly as he could manage. “Please…”

 

Guizhong relented and took a step back.

 

“Okay…” She turned to leave before pausing. “What should she bring?”

 

“Anything she can spare.”

 

Morax heard her shuffle back up the hall before he took in the entirety of the room before him.

 

It was evenly square and small. Very little light filtered in from small slits in the walls acting as windows, or maybe they were just to let air in. It was hard to say since the air in the room was stale, stagnant, and suffocating.

 

Chains decorated all of the walls. Based on the different sizes and styles, they were made to contain both human and Adepti. One of the set of chains had a pile of old bone laying below it.

 

The smell of rot came from a dish containing what used to be some kind of food. Flies and rats were the only ones feasting from it.

 

The smell of iron came from the dried blood all over the place. It was a truly horrifying room.

 

Shǎndiàn’s personal torture room it seems.

 

Below a set of seven chains laid the Demon. A rather large pool of blood was spilled below him, half dry and no doubt tacky in texture. He was thankfully alive based on the very small rise and fall of his torso.

 

However he was not in good condition.

 

His skin was practically translucent, no doubt from the blood loss. His eyes were open, but the golden color was dull and his gaze was not focused. Morax didn’t even know if the Demon was aware that there was another person with him at the moment. The spear he used in their fight was still gripped in his hands.

 

As if the Demon just teleported and fell were he laid the next moment.

 

Morax slowly took a few steps closer. While the Demon was seemingly incapacitated, an air of caution was needed in case his body reacted on instinct. But the Demon didn’t move as Morax tired to gently nudge the spear from his hand and away from reach.

 

No reaction.

 

Morax took in the small form, kneeling down as he did. 

 

Most of the injuries from before the fight were still present, which was odd as an Adeptus’ energy was enough for most wounds to heal within days depending on the severity. 

 

That meant that his Adeptal energy levels are too low to kickstart the healing process. Which is bad.

 

Very bad.

 

Morax didn’t want to roll the Demon over. He didn’t know if the wound he gave the Demon was still bleeding or not. He took solace that his back, where his spear exited, was no longer bleeding.

 

Some of the injuries had a purple tinge to them, it was abnormal and not like the yellow hue showing infection. Which many of the older wounds displayed. 

 

It worried him.

 

Was there a poison that Shǎndiàn discovered that works against Adepti? Or was it something specifically for the Demon?

 

Glancing at the pool of the Demon’s blood again told him that whatever it was, there was a lot of it coursing through the Demon right now.

 

Steps behind him alerted Morax of Guizhong’s return with Streetward Rambler.

 

Both ladies stopped at the doorway at the sight.

 

“Move aside.” Rambler rushed forward as Morax moved out of the way to tend to the Demon. “I’m glad I brought my Teapot, Lady Guizhong, if you would.”

 

Guizhong set the suspended magical Teapot next to Rambler.

 

“Morax, roll him over please.”

 

Morax did as requested and rolled the Demon over. The boy’s entire front side was bathed in red from his own blood. 

 

He’s surprised that they're still alive.

 

“I can’t tell if it’s still bleeding.” Rambler examine the wound. “Morax pick him up, I need to treat him inside.”

 

The Demon was very light. No surprise given the difference in stature but the Demon was quite literally just skin and bones from what Morax could feel.

 

Morax followed Rambler’s lead into the Teapot. Making sure to pay attention to the Demon’s weak breathing in case anything changes drastically.

 

When had the Demon closed his eyes?

Notes:

Dun dhun dun.

As always, let me know what you think, whether you like it or not.

All feedback is good feedback and helps me write.

Next chapter will be in Xiao's side of things.

Fun fact: Did you know that NEITHER Xiao or Alatus are his real name? Xiao is the name given to him by Morax, and Alatus is his title name given to him as a Yaksha General (probably based on his Constellation.) Much like his 'Previous master' we do not have Xiao's real name nor any information on it.

Chapter 5

Notes:

New chapter out already? yes.

Also this chapter was a pain to write because as I mention before we don't actual name for during this time period and I haven't done enough research into anything that Xiao is based off of to find a potential name. There is a chance I'll just leave him nameless until I get to certain parts of the story.

but that's later me's problem

Onto the chapter, hope you enjoy, it's honestly worse then the first chapter i'm sorry.

She pulled at the cuffs she bonded him with.

 

He had failed the task she assigned him. 

 

‘Defeat Morax’

 

His body would not move, no matter how much she pulled at him.

 

He didn’t try.

 

All he could do is watch as the Lord of Geo turned his attention away from his lowly form to his Master. 

 

He could feel his Master panic as the cuffs started to burn him as a motivator. 

 

It didn’t work.

 

His body still didn’t move.

 

He was used to the feeling of the cuffs burning the skin under them.

 

Suddenly, his Master’s anger and desperation sent searing pain though his mind and body. His body acted on its own and he found himself standing between Morax and his Master. Just in time to take an attack intended for his Master.

 

He stared blankly at the Lord of Geo’s face, hardly blinking at the spear in his chest.

 

The god’s amber eyes betrayed his shock.

 

It hurt.

 

It hurt a lot but he knew the punishment for reacting would only lead to more pain.

 

Then the order to go to the room was issued.

 

He forced himself to reach a hand up and pull the spear out. It gave a small squelching sound when he did.

 

He didn’t care as he did as commanded.

 

The room was dark as always.

 

He stood there. Staring at his chains. He should prepare for his Master’s punishment.

 

The room shook, causing his foot to slip.

 

He was falling.

 

He didn’t realize he landed on the ground until pain shot through his new injury, causing him to flinch.

 

The next moment he gave a small cough, the taste of metal coated his tongue and the smell of iron flooded his nose. Trapped behind his muzzle.

 

He just laid there.

 

The outcome of the battle will not change his fate.

 

If his Master wins, he will be punished to near death, or he just might finally die this time.

 

If Morax wins, no doubt he would still be punished for the artrosities he’s committed under his Master’s name. Death was almost certain.

 

He hope the new injury will be just enough for him to not incounter either of those outcomes. 

 

To just leave right now. 

 

He would finally be free again.

His master did not come.

 

How long has it been?

 

Was Master gloating her victory? Or was Morax the one who won?

 

He closed his eyes for just a moment.

 

His was getting numb, losing the feeling of his hands followed by his legs.

 

He can’t remember a time he’s been this injured. He can’t remember a lot from before Master’s control.

 

He started feeling cold.

 

How long has it been?

 

Where was Master?

 

The muffled sound of the hidden stone door opening caused his eyes to open back up. He watched the inner door, waiting for his Master to make her appearance.

 

But she didn’t.

 

Was this a new trick of her’s?

 

An attempt at tricking him into false hope just to have it ripped away again? 

 

If only he could have hope. 

 

His head felt heavy.

 

How long has he been laying here?

 

His ears picked up the sound of footsteps coming down the hall. He thought he heard two pairs but his Master never brought others in here. He must be hearing things.

 

The door opened and he was met with white and brown. It was a stark contrast compared to his Master's dark purple and black colors.

 

So the Lord of Geo was the victory. 

 

Will the god kill him right away? Maybe give him what punishment the god deemed fit for someone as lowly as him. Or will he make use of him like hid Master did? 

 

He watched Morax take in the room they were in before he step towards his prone body. Even as the edges of his sight seemed to darken, he watch his new Master examine him.

 

Probably deciding if he was worth the trouble.

 

He didn’t know how long Morax kneeled over him.

 

The god’s face gave nothing away about what he was thinking.

 

Two more people rushed into the room. Both were women. 

 

One paused at the doorway, seeming shocked about something. She looked gentle. 

 

The other went straight up to him and started examining him with a fierce glare.

 

He would have flinched if he could move. 

 

They were speaking, but not to him. Maybe about him? The sound of their voices were muffled to his ears.

 

His eyes closed as he felt the fierce lady touch him. 

 

It seems that he will fall under his new Master’s control after all. 

 

They shifted him, rolling him off his front.

 

Was something under his back?

 

It hurt.

 

He was shifted again.

 

This time something was placed under his knees.

 

Something happened. He was dizzy. Even with his eyes closed the blackness swirled violently.

 

It made him feel sick.

 

When did it become so difficult to breathe?

 

Was this what death felt like? Was this suffering necessary in order to be freed from living? Or was this just his fate to suffer even in death?

 

He didn’t dare to hope, even as he felt his mind fade. He was never that lucky. His body would still try to fight for life, like any other living being.

 

Maybe…

 

Just maybe, he could hope, just a little bit, that he was beyond repair, and that his new Master would either simply toss him aside and forget about him, or just end him once he’s deemed unfit.

 

After all, what need would the mighty dragon have for one like him.

 

He…

 

His thoughts started to struggle. He couldn’t feel anything, he couldn’t hear anything.

 

Was he even in pain anymore?

 

He…

 

He couldn’t think.

 

He had the sensation of falling again… or was he floating… he… didn’t know… anymore.

Notes:

So what did you think?

Hopefully the next chapter will be better, and longer.

Anyways let me know how you liked it or if there's any problems or mistakes or even sections that don't make a lot of sense. I really do appreciate all the feedback I get because it helps me get these stories out and makes my writing better so you can enjoy it better.

Chapter 6

Notes:

And another chapter for you.

Hope you like it.

They had never seen someone in such poor conditions, human or not.

 

By all rights this… kid? Should be dead.

 

Streetward Rambler has never, in her long lifetime, seen anything like this.

 

It didn’t matter if this young Adeptus was the Demon of Shǎndiàn. Nothing in the world deserves the suffering that painted his body. Her eyes flitted from one injury to the next, old scar to old scar.

 

Not an ounce of his skin was left unscathed, whether it was something as mild as a bruise, or as thin as a cut, or as scarring as the lacerations. The boy’s body was damaged. And this was just his human form, she could only imagine what his beast form looked like.

 

“Where do we even start?” Morax asked her, setting the boy on a cot in her medical room.

 

“I don’t even know…” She admitted, taking another look at her newest patient. “Go get some warm water… He’s filthy.”

 

Morax obliged, exiting the room to fetch what she asked. 

 

Turning back to the boy, she pulled out her suture supplies. From the looks of it, she’ll probably need more by the end of the night. Might as well start with the biggest concern and go from there.

 

The hole in his chest.

 

Morax’s doing no doubt, She’s seen the Prime Adeptus in battle enough time to recognize the wounds he leaves behind.

 

She got her needle and thread cleaned, though it might not matter too much given the layers of dirt, grease, and who knows what covering the boy.

 

Thankfully Morax returned with enough water to fill a bath. Typical of the dragon to take a request and go overboard on it, though in this case it was welcomed.

 

“Start wiping him down, scrub if you have to but try not to open any wound that’s closed on its own already.” She instructed Morax, picking up a rag herself. “We have a lot of work to do.”

 

She wiped away the russet tacky blood from the Demon’s chest to get a better look at the big wound.

 

It honestly could have been worse. While yes the wound itself was gruesome, most of the serious organs have been left intact.

 

The edges of the wound were clean and straight, making it much easier for Rambler to sew back together. 

 

“Rambler…” Morax pauses scrubbing one of the kid’s legs. “Will he survive?”

 

She didn’t pause, only being a third of the way done with closing the wound. She didn’t answer at first, the only sound being the snip of her shears before starting the next suture.

 

Under the grime, he was extremely pale, there was probably more blood outside him than in where it should be. He’s shown no reaction to touch, even with rough rags touching his probably tender skin. He was extremely underweight, which would only hinder healing. The only sign of life was the shallow, ragged breathing through that hideous mask of his. Not only that, they still need to figure out what that purple stuff was in his blood.

 

“It’s hard to say.” She admitted, pausing only a moment to take a breath. “It depends on how his body responds to treatment, and even then, depending on his mental state, he might not want to live.”

 

In time of war, it was quite common for self induced deaths. The trauma from battles, loss of allies and loved ones, low morale, and a great many other things lead some people to taking their own life.

 

It was the nature of the era, tragic, yes, but in some cases expected. And while Morax and Guizhong have set up help for people falling into that despair, it’s not always enough.

 

It may be the case for this young Adeptus. Even if they manage to save him and he heals physically, mentally is a whole other problem, one she’s not the most suited in helping with. 

 

That was more Guizhong’s area of expertise.

 

When you’re done cleaning his legs,” Rambler turned back to the task at hand, better to focus on something she can help with, “see if you can get that mask off, it gives me a bad feeling.” 

 

They worked in silence after that.

 

Rambler tied off the last stitch on the chest wound, slathering it in a herb paste to hopefully combat any infection that might try settling in. Though given how long it took for Morax to find him, it might be futile.

 

Speaking of Morax, he had very little luck with the mask. It had no clasp, or tie, or anything physically holding it closed that they could see.

 

It had to be magically attached. Morax would return to cleaning off the grime still on the boy’s arms and shoulder when he got frustrated at it.

 

They might need Guizhong for that. Whether it's enchanted or mechanical, Guizhong would be able to figure it out.

 

Rambler dreads to think that it might actually just be fused to his skin from time and they would need to medically remove it.

 

She moved into the next major injury on the Demon’s body. A large gash just over his collarbone stretching over his shoulder.

 

Given the ragged edging of the wound, it was untreated and open. She didn’t know what would have caused it, but if the rumors about Shǎndiàn were to believed, she had a fondness for whips. Infection was evident by the yellowing along the edges.

 

The gash was thankfully short, taking a third of the time to get it closed then the other wound.

 

Those were the two most worrying injuries on the front. The rest of the injuries, various cuts, scarps, and gashes, she deemed mild or moderate and could wait a bit longer to be tended to.

 

“I’m going to roll him over to get his back.” Rambler informed Morax.

 

Thankfully Morax’s diligence had the most of the grime off the front half of the boy.

 

His backside wasn’t much better. She grabbed a new rag to start cleaning. 

 

“Morax.” Bringing the God’s attention back to her before he resumed either cleaning or messing with the mask. “We’ll need fresh water soon, and a pair of clean pants for him.”

 

“Shall I summon Cloud Retainer or Guizhong?” Morax asked, standing to leave. “I’m sure that one or both of them can figure out how to unlock this mask.”

 

“Summon both.” She told him. “While I doubt he has injuries under it I should still check.”

 

“Very well, I shall return.”

 

As she cleaned his back the more horrified she got.

 

Hidden under the filth and dried blood was laceration after laceration. They covered most of his back, stretching up to his shoulders and disappearing below his pant line.

 

As she scrubbed some even reopened, leaking fresh blood while she tried to examine them. Some were fresher than others. Infection was present in all of them. This could be what potentially kills the boy.

 

Rambler wouldn’t admit her hands started to shake as she did her best to close each of the lashes. While she may be one of the main healers for Adepti and trains mortals in medicine for their own care, she was also a warrior herself. She has seen to injuries of war, of those who were rescued from tormentors, even of those of natural disasters.

 

But she has never seen something like this.

 

How long has this Adeptus been in service of Shǎndiàn? Why would he be in service of her to begin with? What would cause Shǎndiàn to do something like this to another being, short of being a sadist.

 

Rambler knew she wouldn’t be getting any answers anytime soon. She might not get answers at all at this rate.

 

All she can do right now is to try her best, and pray it was enough to save him.

Notes:

Let me know what you think.

All feedback is good feedback and it helps me greatly.

Have a good day.

Chapter 7

Notes:

Got a long one for you guys.

Hope you like it.

Try and find the angst here, I'm sure you'll know it when you see it.

and... I'm sorry Xiao... and Guizhong... (not)

Guizhong sets Rambler’s teapot down where it normally sat once she returned to the Assembly. She trusted her friend and ally to handle the poor condition they found the Demon in.

 

She just prayed they weren’t too late.

 

While it still shocked her to see the state of the Adeptus, it didn’t surprise her in the least. It fell in line with all the other problems they’re finding after liberating Shǎndiàn’s land.

 

Shǎndiàn had let her land fall to near ruin. 

 

Poor land quality causing food shortages and leaving people fighting over food and hunger. There was no form of economy, the people had only their lives and skills to trade with. Houses and villages falling apart because they’re made with poor quality materials. Shǎndiàn had taken only the best for herself, leaving her people with nothing but scraps to fight over.

 

It was something they could work with at least. With Marchosius, they had plenty of food to spare while they healed the land. And skills were alway needed and those who don’t have any can be trained. At least they would be compensated for their time and energy.

 

“Oh, Lady Guizhong!” Someone's surprised tone sounded behind her. “You’re back!”

 

It was the Yaksha Generals. Bonanus was the one who spoke, but curiosity was apparent on all their faces. After all, she and Morax weren’t due back till the end of the day. So Guizhong being back at the Assembly probably raised a flag with them.

 

“Yes.” Guizhong confirmed, “Morax and I… found the Demon today.”

 

Guizhong felt uncomfortable calling the Adeptus “The Demon” but it was the only name they had for him at the moment.

 

“Does Morax need assistance with the beast? Bosacius asked. “Or…?”

 

“He is alive right?” Bonanus cut in, not liking where her brother’s question was going.

 

“Bon.” Menogias placed a steady hand on her shoulder, “You're well aware that the Demon was injured by Lord Morax.”

 

“I know, I know.” Bonanus shrugged his hand away, “But that doesn’t mean he’s dead.”

 

“Plus why would you care?” Indarias asked, getting her opinion in. “Even if he survived he’ll just be put on trial by Lord Morax.”

 

“I just believe there’s more to him than we heard.” Bonanus argued. “I’ve seen him the most out of all of us, he acted differently than the rumors when I saw him.”

 

“If I may interject here.” Guizhong finally piped in, trying to stop the growing argument. “I can’t say anything for certain right now.”

 

Guizhong took a calming breath.

 

“At the moment, he is alive.” She told them, “Morax and Rambler are tending to his wounds in an effort to save him.”

 

“Save him?” Bosacius cut in. “Why try to save such a monster?”

 

Guizhong gave the four-armed general a glare.

 

“As I was saying.” She continued, “He is alive. And like General Chizapus theorized, there is more to the situation then we realized.”

 

“Like what, if I may ask?” Menogias calmly asked in curiosity.

 

“He may very well be a victim of Shǎndiàn’s.” Guizhong stated calmly. “We won’t know the whole situation until we can question him… If we can question him.”

 

“My question still stands.” Bosacius crossed two of his arms. “Does Lord Morax need any help bringing the Demon in? When are they expected to arrive?”

 

Guizhong gestured to Rambler’s teapot.

 

“They’re in there.” She told him. “They've been working on him the whole trip back.”

 

Before anyone else could say anything else the air around the Teapot started swirling.

 

Morax’s tall frame appeared a moment later.

 

“Ah Guizhong.” He said calmly, but she could see anger in his eyes. “Can you grab Cloud Retainer and come assist us with something?”

 

“Certainly, anything or anyone else I should grab?” Guizhong offered.

 

“Nothing that I’m not already grabbing myself.”

 

It was then he noticed that the Generals were also present. They stared at him expectantly. You could practically see the questions and curiosity in each of their eyes.

 

“I’m afraid I’m quite busy at the moment.” He told them, not hinting at anything. “ Unless it's urgent I shall meet with you later.”

 

It was a clear dismissal as Morax walked away, off to go grab something Streetward Rambler asked him to grab.

 

“I shall be on my way as well.” Guizhong excused herself as well.

 

She went the other direction, heading toward the hall used for the adepti’s sub-spaces. Knowing Cloud Retainer she will either be working on a new project in her workshop or arguing with Mountain Shaper about different preening techniques again.

 

If she was out of luck, the birds were out in a flight and won’t be back until later, in which case Guizhong would lend aid on her own.

 

She calmly hurried. Checking Retainer’s Abode first.

 

Not there.

 

She checked the workshop.

 

Also not there.

 

She bit her thumb, thinking.

 

While Morax hadn’t seemed in a hurry, or indicated that her and Retainer’s aid was urgent, she didn’t know how quickly her help was needed. She didn’t want to take too much longer.

 

She checked one more spot. The Adepti Courtyard. It was a place in the palace that Guizhong designed just for the Adepti to relax. Mountain Shaper was there. When Guizhong questioned him about whether or not he knew where Cloud Retainer was, he told her that she left to go fix one of the defense mechanisms.

 

Guizhong thanked him and headed back to the Teapot, alone.

 

She’ll admit she was a bit nervous. Earlier, the poor Adepti looked half way through Death’s door. She was wise enough to know his chances were slim.

 

She let the air swirl around her as she entered Rambler’s abode.

 

Guizhong paid no mind to the typical beauty that Adobes had and walked straight into the building nearby and where Rambler treats her patients.

 

“Good you're here.” Rambler spoke up from where she was wrapping bandages around the Adeptus’ torso while Morax held him up. “We need you to look at that mask of his. We can’t figure out how to get it off.”

 

“Of course.” Guizhong said, and stayed out of Rambler’s way until she was done. “How is he doing?”

 

“He’s alive.” Rambler told her, “Not much else to say.”

 

The Adeptus does look a lot better now that he’s been clean off and had a clean pair of pants on that weren’t in threads.

 

Once Rambler settled the Adeptus back on the bed she moved forward to look at the mask while Rambler moved in to tending to other injuries.

 

Guizhong looked at the mask before. It was leather, and snug against his face. She was sure there would be impression lines along his face for a while once they did get it off.

 

Nothing looked off about it. Other than the lack of ways to get it off. Surely it was too tight to slid off over his head.  

 

Guizhong gently ran a finger along the edge of the mask. She didn’t sense anything particular about it magically. It did have some enchantments but was unable to tell what they did.

 

She carefully tried slipping a finger or two between the mask and face. The mask stretched enough to allow it.

 

It’s when she pulled did everything go wrong. 

 

She fell back with a yelp, holding her arm that had begun tingling. The Adeptus, who had been still and dead to the world, was now withering on the cot. His hands clawed at the mask as if trying to get it off himself.

 

Morax was quick, summoning some Geo to crystallize the Electro current coming from the mask as Rambler held the Adeptus down so he didn’t open his wounds again.

 

He stilled again after a few moments passed.

 

Guizhong couldn’t help but stare in horror at what just occurred. 

 

“Guizhong.” Morax knelt down next to her. “Are you okay?”

 

She gave him a silent nod as he took her hand to check it for injury. 

 

She shook off her daze. That mask needed to come off now.

 

“Rambler.” Guizhong stood up with sudden determination. “If I hold him and Morax keeps crystallizing the Electro, how fast can you cut that thing off him?”

 

They gave Rambler a moment to examine the mask herself.

 

“It would only take a moment if I used my sharpest tool.” Was her answer. “But it’s important that he doesn’t move while I do it, I don’t want to accidentally nick his neck.”

 

Guizhong nodded, they could do that. She could do that.

 

“Alright, I’ll hold him.” She said, settling herself on the bed. “Lean him against me.”

 

The two didn’t argue with her.

 

He moved him so they were chest to chest. The boy’s face between her shoulder and neck. This was the best because she could hold his hair out of the way and keep his head still with one hand and restrain his torso with the other arm.

 

Once everyone was in place, she took a deep breath and nodded.

 

Rambler carefully slipped her fingers under the back of the mask’s edge, like Guizhong had done, and slipped a flat piece of wood between the skin and leather.

 

No burst of Electro yet.

 

Guizhong watched as the thin knife-like tool Rambler was using sliced into the leather.

 

Still nothing.

 

But it didn’t stay that way for long. 

 

Guizhong felt the Adeptus tense in her arms before she felt the buzz that Electro adds to the air.

 

It was low at first, but the more Rambler sliced through the leather the stronger the energy got.

 

About half way done is when sparks shot out. Morax was quick in stopping them but the energy still burned, making the Adeptus start to spasm again. Guizhong tightens her hold, not allowing him to move. She was also feeling the effect unfortunately, with his face pressing into her neck it was expected, but she refused to let go through the painful tingles. 

 

Guizhong gritted her teeth when there was a sudden surge of electricity. It rippled through both her and the Adeptus as Morax worked on stopping it. She ended up closing her eyes, focusing on making sure there were no movements.

 

Shǎndiàn was a very cruel god indeed.

 

“Almost done.” 

 

Just moments later, still feeling the buzz of electricity running through her, did the Electro energy cease trying to zap them.

 

Guizhong didn’t release the Adetpus right away. She just held his twitching body and stared at the number of purple crystals Morax ended up making.

 

Then the world faded to black.

Notes:

oh no, she passed out.

hope it wasn't too long for you.

Anyone who's read my other stories know I make characters pass out to either help end a chapter or a Pov, in this case it was both fitting and helped in the chapter.

Let me know what you think as all feedback in good feedback.

Chapter 8

Notes:

Another chapter woo.

enjoy.

Morax quickly stopped Guizhong from tilting off the cot with the little Adeptus still latched in her arms.

 

Rambler quickly set the tools she was using to cut through the mask down and hurried to check over both Guizhong and the Adeptus.

 

“She’ll be fine.” Rambler said after a moment, “Her muscles might be sore from the shock but all she needs is to sleep if off.”

 

“And him?” Morax asked, helping Rambler separate the two.

 

“His pulse is erratic…” She settled the Adeptus down while Morax held Guizhong in his arms, “It’s… not a good sign, hopefully it’ll steady out soon.”

 

“Very well, I shall be back.”

 

Morax took Guizhong and carried her to Rambler’s own room to sleep off the shock. He carefully laid her in the bed when he heard a crash from the treatment room.

 

He had only been gone for mere moments. What could’ve possibly happened?

 

Morax rushed back, not really knowing what to expect since the Adeptus was in such bad conditions that it shouldn’t have been able to do anything.

 

And he was right. The Adeptus was still unconscious. A new smell now permeated the room. It was horrid, but not as bad as the room they found the Adeptus in.

 

He spotted some broken jars on Rambler’s shelves, like something was thrown at it. The mask laid below the shelf, being the offending object.

 

“What happened?” Morax asked even though he could piece together what happened.

 

Morax took a step forward to see if he could figure out why Rambler would throw the mask at the wall. The warrior-healer’s shoulders were shaking in what Morax presumed was anger, given the look in her eyes.

 

Rambler was wiping off the Adeptus’ face. His mouth is covered in a dark grime. No doubt it was a mix of who knows what kind of bodily fluids secreted by the face or mouth. Red, angry lines marked were the mask had cut into his skin.

 

How long had that mask on him?

 

Morax turned to the mask laying on the floor. A splatter of grime left its mark on the floor under it. He picked it up to examine it, uncaring of the smell that assaulted his nose or the grime that dirtied his hands, and looked.

 

Nothing seemed off about it until he turned it around to look at the back side of the mask, the side that would be the inside. In the middle, where a person’s mouth would be, was a protrusion. 

 

A tongue of leather and metal, stained by grime and blood, fashioned to be a bit. Teeth marks were cut into the leather part, worn away over time. Even parts of the metal had signs of wear from the boy’s teeth.

 

It was not a mask, like they had all thought.

 

It was a muzzle.

 

Morax just let out a deep breath, the surprise and horror losing effect with each new thing they find. He set the mask in an empty bucket to be cleaned and used for evidence later in case his people wanted to force a trial, cleaning his hands afterwards.

 

“Are you okay Rambler?” Morax asked, taking a seat on the other side of the bed to assist as needed. “Should I grab another healer to take over?”

 

“No.” She told him, voice shaking. “No I am not okay.” Rambler stuck her fingers in the Adeptus’ mouth to clean out as much gunk hiding in there as possible. “We’ve only touched the surface problems, I haven’t done a proper reading on him, I don’t know if there’s any internal injuries I need to worry about.”

 

She took a shaky breath to try and calm down. 

 

“But I will see this through, no matter the results” she said in absolute. “No matter what other horror and problem we find.”

 

“Very well.” Morax decided not to argue as she cleaned her hands. “ What's next?”

 

“Keep dressing the wounds.” Rambler tossed him a few rolls of bandages. “I’ll start doing a reading and look for broken bones and internal injuries since I brought it up.”

 

They returned to work in silence. The only sound was the young Adeptus’ ragged and raspy breathing, which became more prevalent now that the mask was no longer covering his mouth and nose.

 

Morax didn’t have much to do. They were nearly done with all the visible injuries, with the arms and chest already wrapped. He carefully lifted a leg and got to work. He worked quickly and efficiently. While he, himself, was not much of a healer, he did know the basics. Most Adepti warriors did, if not to help themselves, then to help others they find or fight with during combat. He was done with the last of the dressing soon enough.

 

The legs weren’t in the worst conditions. Most of the damage to the Adeptus was mostly on the torso and arms, but the legs weren’t unscathed either. The soles of his feet, however had numerous scars built up over time. Thankfully there were no present open wounds when he wrapped them. The Newest looked about a month’s old.

 

Morax sat back and watched Rambler do her reading. 

 

Rambler had her eyes closed for better focus as she dragged her glowing hands through the air just above the Adeptus’ body. She was using her own Adeptal energy to see inside the body. A necessary skill for healers to have, and a useful one at that.

 

A frown pulled at Rambler’s face but she didn’t pull out of the reading to say anything. After a few more moments she stopped.

 

“Well?” Morax prompted. “Any concerns?”

 

“Not really.” She told him, and started cleaning up. “He has some internal bruising but nothing that won’t heal on its own with time and rest.” She gestured to Morax to pick up the Adeptus. “He has some signs of old broken bones, none which are concerning at the moment but might need to be surgically fixed later.”

 

Morax followed her into one of her rooms reserved for long term patients, and set in on the bed without prompting when Rambler pulled back the sheets.

 

“He’ll be lucky to survive till the end of the week.” Rambler told him honestly. “Even if we can get food and water into him.”

 

“He’s survived so far.” Morax places a hopefully comforting hand on her shoulder. “He’s strong, he’s proven that so far.”

 

Morax took another look at the Adeptus and had to blink.

 

His eyes were open.

Notes:

Hope you liked it.

I will be taking a small break to co back and edit the chapters so far and fix any mistakes I find, the stroy won't change at all.

Let me know what you think and see you next chapter.

Chapter 9

Notes:

Another slightly short chapters, hope you enjoys.

I tried adding more tags, but AO3 said I had to many... oops

Anyways onto the chapter.

Morax watched the eyes slip back to close.

 

The Adeptus’ face pinched. He let out a barely audible groan as he turned his head to the side.

 

Was he trying to roll over?

 

Rambler pulled out a bucket from under the bed as the Adeptus managed to get to his side.

 

Just in time too. The Adeptus threw up.

 

Barely anything came out. Rambler passed the now used bucket to him as she tried to give the Adeptus water before re-settling him on their side.

 

Morax looked at the contents of the bucket, the bile was red, yellow, and more of that same purple coloring that was in his blood. 

 

“I don’t suppose you know what this is?” Morax asked Rambler, showing the bucket.

 

“I was going to ask you the same.” He was told. “There aren’t any concerning symptoms, at least none that I can discern from what’s expected of these types of injuries.”

 

“I suppose we’ll just have to keep an eye on it.”

 

“It also might just be a part of his biology.” Rambler added. “We won’t know more until later regardless.”

 

“I did find a strange flower after defeating Shǎndiàn.” Morax told her, following her back to the medical room. “I gave it to Guizhong to study since it didn’t seem like a living plant.”

 

“I’ll confer with her about it later.” Rambler started cleaning up the blood and grime covered cot. “There are a lot of unknown factors occurring right now. We just need some patience and hope for the best.”

 

Morax picked up the discarded rags that the Adeptus probably called clothes to put them in the bucket the muzzle sat in. It would also be used for evidence should they need it.

 

Clunk

 

Something small and heavy fell out of the rags and landed on the ground. 

 

It was a small teal gem encased in a square silver casing. 

 

A Vision.

 

Morax picked it up. It was very small, and very dirty. 

 

Visions haven’t been handed out since the war began, since new Archons and their ideals were still being chosen.

 

Morax was aware that the Lands of Anemo and Dendro’s fights were long over. Either not having much competition to defeat or resolving conflicts in cooperation of other gods.

 

Popular belief says that a Vision’s size is indicative of how old the person received it was unless it was an inherited one. If that was true, then based on the size of the Vision, which undoubtedly belonged to the Adeptus, they got it when they were very, very young.

 

Or he is very young and just got it.

 

Morax couldn’t decide which was a worse thought.

 

What was a good sign was the glow that still shined through the grime. It was dim and could barely be called shining, but it wasn’t grey or greying, showing that Adeptus’ life wasn’t fading.

 

“Here.” Morax handed the little gem to Rambler. “This should be returned to him.”

 

“Well, he's just full of surprises.” Rambler marveled at the Vision for a moment. “I’ll be sure to set it on his bed side once it’s cleaned.”

 

“I’ll be calling a meeting tomorrow.” Morax told her, helping pull the soiled sheets off the cot. “I would like a detailed list of his current known injuries and state of being, along with the mask to be presented.”

 

“Are you going to be holding a trial without him?” Rambler asked, almost in shock. “That hardly seems fair.”

 

“No.” Morax placated the healer. “It’s to be used as a reason why I will not be giving him a trial.”

 

 Morax let out a sigh.

 

“But I must hold a meeting so there are no misunderstandings. I will not be the one to take his potential future and freedom away again, nor will I allow others to hold Shǎndiàn’s crimes over him.”

 

“Very well.” Rambler was in agreement. “I’ll pass the list along with Guizhong when she wakes up.”

 

Their cleaning returned to silence. Morax picked up the shattered jars of medicine, replacing the dried herbs into new pots. Rambler was scrubbing her tools to her level of cleanliness standards.

 

“I’ll take my leave.” Morax informed Rambler. “Keep me updated on his condition.”

 

“Make sure you rest as well.” Rambler called out as he left the room.

 

He gave a noncommittal hum at that. He could rest later when everything was settled. He still needs to give over the reports on the surrender warriors, and check in with Marchosius about returning vitality to the new land… and have him work on a meal plan for the Adeptus… maybe he’ll let Rambler handle that one.

 

“Lord Morax.”

 

It was Menogias, coming back from where he went when he dismissed the Generals earlier.

 

“Something to report?” Morax asked.

 

“No my Lord.” He said hesitantly. “But you were about to run into the pillar.”

 

Morax looked forward, sure enough there was a stone pillar before him. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s been lost in thought and ran into something.

 

“I see…” Morax refused to be embarrassed. “Thank you for alerting me.”

 

“One more thing my Lord…” Menogias piped up before Morax could continue on his way. “You might want to change attire before meeting with anyone else.”

 

“Why’s that, if I may ask?”

 

“You’re covered in dirt and blood…” Menogias once again pointed out something he was oblivious to. “It might scare some people.”

 

“Thank you.” Morax told the Geo Yaksha. “I shall go take care of it at once, alert the others that I’ll be calling a meeting tomorrow.”

 

Morax turned on his heel and headed to his Domain. Once there he took off his white robe. 

 

It had become grey and brown from dirt during the three days he’d worn it. The blood that splattered it was no doubt from the Adeptus. 

 

He threw it to the side to be cleaned later and laid down on his bed, closing his eyes.

 

He could spare a moment for himself before moving on to the next task.

 

But just a moment he thought as he let his muscles relax.

 

It’s been a long three days. Days he focused on planning out everything needed for dealing with all the new changes that will happen.

 

When was the last time he actually slept?

 

He’ll need to come back later and actually get some sleep.

 

“-ax-“

 

Was someone knocking?

 

“Wake up you big oaf.”

 

Something slapped his face.

 

Morax snapped his eyes open, staring at Guizhong who slapped him with some papers.

 

“You’ve been asleep for two days!”

Notes:

Has anyone else ever experienced just accidentally sleeping a whole day away because their body found that one spot that's comfortable enough and makes the body just more or less shut down?

I have, which was my inspiration for this chapter's ending.

Let me know what you think, I love feedback and it helps me know how the story is flowing from your perspectives.

Chapter 10

Notes:

Yet another chapter. for some reason my mind really wanted to get this chapter out as fast as possible.

Hope you enjoy.

He heard a whistle sound in the wind. Changing softly from high and low notes.

 

He knew that sound, his chest hurt when he heard it.

 

He whistled it back, forgetting who he was replying to, but it felt right.

 

He couldn’t remember where he was… or why he was there… he’s… missing something…

 

He heard the whistle again.

 

He tried to follow it but it echoed around him, the sound swirling in the wind, turning him around.

 

He couldn’t find where it came from.

 

He repeated the whistle.

 

The reply this time was a whisper as the surroundings turned orange.

 

“Run.” It whispered in his ear, “Run!”

 

The air grew hotter and he ran.

 

He had to get away… but he also… needed to find something?

 

He let out the whistle again, it sounded terrible in his panic...

 

There was no reply this time. 

 

The blaze of orange licked at him, catching his feathers, burning his skin.

 

Screams sounds all around him. 

 

Where was it? Where was he?

 

“Consume them all.” 

 

He flinched at the voice. Gentle and sweet as it whispers darkly in his ear. 

 

No. 

 

No no no no no

 

He gripped his head, pulling at his hair, shaking his head as if it would shake her off.

 

He didn’t want to remember. 

 

He looked up, seeing a figure in the blaze. 

 

He cried as the world tilted and he was falling.

 

He landed hard, blinking his eyes as the scene changed to a room. 

 

He scrambled back, his back hitting the corner of the room, squeezing himself between the wall and a table.

 

He blinked again when he heard footsteps come from down the hall.

 

Was he awake now? He didn’t remember this dream before.

 

---

 

Guizhong had her hands on her hips as she stared at the dragon before her.

 

When she woke up she immediately checked in with Streetward Rambler, who handed her a stack of papers and a box.

 

She popped her head in the room that the Adeptus was settled in, glad to see that horrible mask off his face and resting.

 

When Guizhong left the teapot, she was met by Indarias, who informed her that Morax was calling a meeting later.

 

So she relaxed only dealing with urgent matters or emergencies, which were few and far between.

 

The day came and went, passing by quickly. 

 

The meeting was never called. Which confused not only Guizhong but the Generals.

 

It was possible that Morax just got caught up in something. If someone talks about the right topic, the dragon could get distracted for hours. 

 

Guizhong dismissed the generals and told them to reconvene tomorrow evening, she’ll find Morax in the meantime.

 

The only problem was, Morax wasn’t at any of his usual places. That’s when she decided to check his Domain. She knocked of course before entering when she got no answer. 

 

There he was, asleep on his massive bed he rarely used, in dragon form.

 

She couldn’t help but let out a huff before trying to wake him, which led to her current position staring down a drowsy dragon she had just smacked with her papers.

 

“You’ve been asleep for two days!” She scolded him, “I rescheduled the meeting for… 10 minutes from now, get up.”

 

Has she really spent a day and half searching for this idiot?

 

“Apologies.” Morax rumbled as he turned back into his human form. “I meant to only sit down for a moment.”

 

Guizhong walked over to Morax’s wardrobe upon seeing the dragon had no clothes on, grabbing a simple but elegant outfit.

 

“Get dressed.” She told him, throwing the clothes at his head. “We should hurry so no one is waiting on us again.”

 

Guizhong watched as Morax pulled the clothes off his head and quickly got dressed. It alway made her a bit jealous how he could alway get his clothes to sit just right on him, nothing ever out of place. 

 

Why did she ever introduce him to fashion?

 

“Ready.”

 

They thankfully didn’t have much distance to cover before they were in front of the War Room’s doors. The four generals and Marchosius were waiting for them.

 

“I apologize for the delay.” Morax told them, holding the door up. “Shall we?”

 

The seven of them filed into the room. Inside was a simple table carved from stone and chairs. Papers, notes, and a map of Liyue covered the table.

 

They each took their seats. Morax was the only one who remained standing.

 

“Thank you all for gathering.” Morax started. “I’ve called this meeting to address the matter of the Adeptus known at Shǎndiàn’s Demon.”

 

Silence was met as everyone had a different reaction.

 

Bosacius crossed two of his arms, a frown etched on his face.

 

Indarias also had a frown but leaned against her hand as if bored or unsurprised.

 

Bonanus lean forward, eager for the news with worry decorating her face.

 

Menogias also crossed his arms, leaning back in his seat with his eyes closed, waiting for more.

 

Marchosius had little reaction due to handling matters more on the civil side. The bear Adeptus sat respectfully.

 

Guizhong herself has little reaction, already knowing most of what would be addressed in the meeting.

 

“The first thing I will announce is that the Demon will not be tried for the crimes he committed while under Shǎndiàn’s rule.”

 

Guizhong watched as shock or anger crossed everyone’s faces.

 

“Why not?” Bosacius demanded an answer. “I’ve seen first hand the destruction that he’s brought on our villages and people. The destruction and despair he’s left behind among Shǎndiàn’s people.”

 

“I concur.” Menogias piped in. “While I trust your judgment my Lord, I’ve also witnessed the aftermath of the Demon’s rampages, why will he be acquitted?”

 

“Evidence witnessed by myself, Lady Guizhong, and Streetward Rambler suggests that his actions were not of his own doing.”

 

“What kind of evidence?” Indarias asked, skepticism filled her voice. “And how do you know it’s not false or planted?”

 

“I doubt anyone could fake what we found out.” Morax rebutted before turning to Guizhong. “Lady Guizhong if you will.”

 

Guizhong handed the pile of papers and the box Rambler handed her. Morax held the papers but set down the box.

 

“I’ll start it with the medical report from Streetward Rambler.”

 

“The damage done to his body was done over a long period of time, in addition to the recent fight where he sustained a grievous wound by my hand.”

 

Morax took a breath before continuing.

 

“He has a series of serious lacerations across his body, primarily on his back, believed to be caused by a whip. Shǎndiàn’s choice of weapon. A majority of these injuries are infected.”

 

Another pause.

 

“Along with that he is severely malnourished and dehydrated. Streetward Rambler estimates his last meal was anywhere between a few decades ago to a few centuries ago. His Adeptal Energy is extremely low, nearly depleted.”

 

Morax swapped pages.

 

“His body is in shock and sickness plagues his body. An unknown substance is in his system, whether it’s a biological aspect, a poison, or a drug is currently unknown. His bestial form is unknown. His name is unknown. Age unknown but Streetward Rambler, again, estimates him to be around a thousand to two thousand years.”

 

That bit of information painted shock and horror across everyone’s faces, even her own. Adepti weren’t considered fully grown until they hit three thousand years of age. Rambler’s estimation put the Adeptus down to the equivalent of a human just about to hit adolescence. 

 

“That state in which he arrived at Rambler’s exam room suggests that he was kept in poor condition, something both Lady Guizhong and I can attest to, and given little to no medical care for his injuries until now.”

 

Morax set the papers down and opened the lid to the box.

 

“And as witnessed by myself, Lady Guizhong, and Streetward Rambler, he was also wearing this mask.”

 

Morax pulled the mentioned object out, holding it for the seven of them to see.

 

“This mask had no way of removal we could find, and had to be cut off the Adeptus, but in doing so set of an enchantment that I can only believe is meant to deter removal by anyone other then Shǎndiàn herself.”

 

“What do you mean by that?” Bosacius inquired. “Like it was booby trapped or something?”

 

“In a way.” Morax answered.

 

“That masked released Electro energy that electrocuted not only the Adeptus but the one trying to remove it without permission. Guizhong can attest to the effects as she was the one who attempted to remove it the first time.”

 

Guizhong gave a nod of confirmation when everyone’s eyes looked at her.

 

“And while we all thought it was a mask, it’s in fact not.” Morax turned the object around, revealing the other side. “It is a muzzle.”

 

That was news to Guizhong. They must have found that out after she passed out from the electrocution. She couldn’t help as more horror pooled in her chest. 

 

“With all that I presented, I’m sure you see my reasoning as to why I won’t be holding a trial for the Adeptus.”

 

Morax replaced the muzzle back into the box and took his seat. Everyone was quiet as they mulled over the information.

 

“So what will happen to the Demon?” Indarias asked, twirling a loc of flame hair. “Just let him go?”

 

“If that is what he wishes.”

 

“Do you really think it’s a good idea to let a dangerous beast like him to just leave?” Bosacius responded. “What if he harms others?”

 

“I do not plan on letting him leave until he’s healed, in all aspects.” Morax answered him. “I want to get more information from him before I make a final decision. He might not even want to live anymore and if he can not recover from his time under Shǎndiàn’s control, I may grant his wish with a mercy killing.”

 

The pause was heavy.

 

“That if the Adeptus even survives the week.”

 

No one said anything. The weight of the situation left the mood heavy. Guizhong still saw skepticism on Indarias’ and Bosacius’ faces.

 

A knock at the door cut through the tense air. Most Adepti and soldiers know to not interrupt meetings unless it’s important.

 

“Please excuse my interruption,” A Yaksha soldier spoke as he was granted permission to enter. “but Lady Rambler sends word.”

Notes:

Let me know if there are any mistakes, I did right this at 2 Am.

All feedback is appreciated and helps me write better and get chapters out to you fast.

Hope you enjoyed.

Chapter 11

Notes:

Here's another chapter y'all I hope you likey.

On the longer side for ya, wrote most of it on my phone during work breaks.

Streetward Rambler was tending to an Adeptus Yaksha who hurt his arm during a spar, one of Bosacius’ men, when a cry came from down the hall. Thankfully she was almost done.

 

“Apply pressure here.” Rambler told the soldier. “I’ll be right back.”

 

The cry came from her nameless patient no doubt. He was the only other Adeptus she was tending to at the moment. She needed to check on what caused the distressed sound.

 

She knocked softly in the door before announcing her entrance. What she saw when she entered was an empty bed. 

 

Rambler forced the small panic of the idea that he somehow teleported away. Even if he had the energy to do so he wouldn't have been able to make his way out of her teapot with ease.

 

Still the Adeptus was too injured to have been able to move far in such a short amount of time.

 

Thankfully her fear was unfounded as she heard a small shuffle on the far side of the bed. She slowly made her way into the room and to the side of the bed. 

 

The Adeptus was on the ground, pressing himself into the corner. How he was able to fit himself into such a small area only showed just how small he was.

 

He watched her when she came into his field of vision. His eyes were a beautiful golden color, with slitted pupils. They were wide with fear but he kept himself quiet, as if to not attract attention to himself.

 

He shouldn’t even be awake let alone be able to coherently watch her every movement.

 

“Good morning.” Rambler addressed the Adeptus, despite it being evening, “How are you feeling?”

 

There was no response. The Adeptus just stared at her, not even blinking. It was a little unnerving but not unexpected.

 

“Do you know where you are?” Rambler turned to ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions, “Are you in any pain at the moment?”

 

Again the Adeptus just sat there, not responding. She really needs to get him off the floor even if he doesn’t answer.

 

“Can you come out if there please?” She held out a hand to him, “I’d like to check your injuries.”

 

The mistake of reaching her hand out caused the Adeptus to flinch back hard, smacking his head into the wall. Kicking his feet against the floor, trying to scoot back even further. He let out a low growling sound.

 

Rambler brought her hand back and let out a disappointed breath. She’ll allow him to stay there if it makes him comfortable. She should inform Morax that he’s awake.

 

“Very well.” Rambler stood up and  grabbed a nearby pitcher of water. “I’ll be back, but please drink something.”

 

She set the pitcher down on the ground where he could see it along with a cup. His eyes flickered to it for a brief second before they were back in her.

 

It was… something at least.

 

Rambler left the room, but not before taking one last glance at the Adeptus’ hiding spot where his eyes shone through the shadows like a cat.

 

She made her way back to her current patient.

 

“Sorry about that.” Rambler apologized to the Yaksha soldier checking his injury. “Looks like it should finish healing by morning, don’t do anything to strain it or reopen it.”

 

“Thank you Madam.”

 

“Before you leave, might I ask a favor if you?” She paused the soldier’s exit and quickly penned down a letter. “Can you deliver this to Lord Morax or Lady Guizhong, they should be in a meeting right now.”

 

“Is it urgent?” The Yaksha asked, rubbing the back of his head, “We aren’t allowed to interrupt a meeting unless it’s urgent.”

 

“No it’s not, but Lord Morax wouldn’t mind in this instance.” She assured him. “Just tell him I sent you and you should be fine.”

 

“If you insist…”

 

She watched him leave despite his hesitation to disrupt a meeting with his higher ups. 

 

Now, back to matters at hand.

 

Rambler entered her kitchen. While most of the cooking is done by Marchosius, she makes her own meal plans according to the needs of her patients. She only goes to Marchosius for assistance in special circumstances, but most are fine with the simple veggie soup she makes.

 

For their mysterious Adeptus friend, she mixed in the medicine she wanted him to take. A trick she learned to get sick kids take their medicine. 

 

Rambler knocked on the door again, soup in hand, waiting a moment before announcing her entrance. She wanted to give the Adeptus a chance to pick his spot before she entered.

 

He was where she left him. Still pressed up in the corner. Eyes still watching her every move. The water pitcher nor cup hadn’t been touched and remained where she placed it.

 

Rambler couldn’t help but frown, he really needs to drink the water. 

 

“I brought you some food.” She said gently, placing the bowl next to the pitcher. “Can you please eat?”

 

Still the boy didn’t move forward. His eyes again flickered from her to the bowl and back with a gulp but he made no move for the food.

 

It… was concerning. She was worried she would have to take it back from him if he started eating too fast, but to not eat at all? While he was clearly starving?

 

She stood up with a small disappointed sigh. His eyes sluggishly follow her. She was going to give him some space and hoped he would consume something before he fell asleep again.

 

Rambler left the room but didn’t stray too far in case something happened.

 

“Rambler.”

 

Ah Morax arrived quicker than she expected. The message must have arrived at a good stopping point.

 

“You said he’s awake?”

 

“That’s right.” Rambler told him. “And he’s coherent but is refusing food and water at the moment.”

 

Before she could continue giving Morax more information a clatter and a crash was heard from the Adeptus’ room.

 

Both Rambler and Morax rush in. 

 

The Adeptus was now standing, head gripped between his hands and shaking it back and forth. He was growling, letting out a low keen as well. He knocked over the side table and the oil lamp that was on it, that explained the sound but not the new found distress.

 

Rambler moved toward him.

 

The Adeptus’ head snapped up, eyes focused in on her. Suddenly she was no longer staring at the weak, injured child. Instead she saw an animal ready to strike. She froze, getting ready to fend off a hit but the Adeptus didn’t move.

 

Rambler took a moment to observe him, she had to find out what caused this shift in demeanor. 

 

His eyes were bloodshot, the pupils switched between dilated and silted as she studied them. Drool dripped through his gritted teeth he was bearing. His Adeptal energy was fluctuating, jumping up to extreme amounts before dropping down to near nothingness. 

 

That was extremely unusual.

 

The Adeptus dropped to his knees the next moment, one hand moving to grip his stomach as he vomits on the floor. The other, still holding his head.

 

Rambler rushed forward again, no longer caring about getting attacked. He tense when she touched him but made no other move as his body made to expel more stomach contents.

 

She checked him over but found nothing out of the ordinary. She took a glance at the bile pile. More purple and some blood. She focused her energy to start another reading, she needs to find the cause.

 

She scans his throat and its muscles, nothing unusual. She directed her energy downward, towards the stomach.

 

Everything looked fine up between the throat and stomach.

 

The outside looked fine, a little bruised and swollen but not what she was looking for. She put more focus on it, moving past to check the internal side.

 

What was that?

 

She felt a hand on her shoulder for a brief moment before she was yanked backwards. She blinked, processing the sight before her.

 

Morax held the boy with one arm, stopping them from moving too much. The other was between the two, blood dripping down where teeth sunk into the forearm.

 

The Adeptus managed to pull free after releasing Morax’s arm from his mouth. Slipping out from under the hold.

 

He backed all the way back to the corner and started thrashing his head again. She grew concerned when he smacked his head against the wall rather hard.

 

Before either Rambler or Morax could do anything he fell back to the ground… and didn’t get back up. Just laid there, breathing harshly and dazed. The energy he shouldn't have had, gone.

Notes:

Xiao's a little bitey birdy, hehe, and a little feral, for like a lot of reasons.

Again let me know what you think, Is it going too fast? too slow? are there parts that don't make sense, does it flow well or is it chunky? is it logical to the world it's set in, does it seem like it's something that could/would happen canonically? etc.

I like all kinds of feedback because it helps me make sure my stories are coming off how I want them too, especially since I'm pulling from a lot of unknowns with the characters and the time period I'm putting them in.

Hope you enjoyed the chapters, I'm off to have a busy weekend.

Chapter 12

Notes:

new chapter for you guys, enjoy.

Thanks for all the feedback you guys have been giving me it really helps.

on to the story.

No one moved for what seemed like an eternity. It wasn’t until the Adeptus expelled another round of purple vomit did Streetward Rambler push past Morax.

 

Morax watched as she turned the boy into his back and placed a hand over his stomach, energy refocusing.

 

“Is your arm alright?” She asked without looking up. “I saw blood.”

 

Morax looked at his arm. The bite wound was indeed bleeding, red and pink against his golden skin. It stung due to contact with the air but overall didn’t seem bad. It could wait for treatment.

 

“It’s fine.” Morax dismissed the concern. “It can be dealt with later.”

 

Morax stood up and grabbed a towel from one of the drawers, laying it over the broken dishware, letting the spilt water and soup soak up into it instead of the floor.

 

“Are you able to determine what caused his… distress?”

 

“I honestly couldn’t say.” Rambler frowned, dispelling the energy she was focusing. “But there is something in his stomach that shouldn’t be there.”

 

She sat back on her heels, looking quite upset with herself.

 

“Do you have an idea on what it could be?”

 

“Yes and no.” She admitted. “I’m hoping it’s simply just a Bezoar that developed over time and not another thing Shǎndiàn placed to further torture him.” She took a deep breath. “But whatever it is, it needs to come out.”

 

Rambler stood up, letting Morax move close to pick up the young Adeptus to place him back on the bed. He passed out again. Red and purple cover his mouth, which Rambler carefully cleaned off.

 

“You mean…?”

 

“Surgery?” Rambler finished for him, cleaning up the mess on the floor. “Unfortunately, yes.”

 

“Will he be able to survive the surgery?”

 

“If he was in good health, it wouldn’t even be a question.” Rambler finished picking up the broken pottery, “but with his current state, I can’t say. It’ll be risky, but it’s the only way.”

 

“I see.” Morax took the information in. “When are you planning on doing it?”

 

“Truthfully?” Rambler stood up. “As soon as I can, before he gets any weaker.” Morax followed her out of the room. “I just need to concoct a numbing and sleeping agent before I can do so. I don’t want to risk him waking up and freaking out again.”

 

Upon walking into the increasingly familiar medical room a small roll of bandages were tossed to him.

 

“Clean and wrap that arm up.”

 

Morax did as she instructed as she flitted around her stores grabbing different herbs and materials.

 

“With luck, I won’t run into any complications and be done within the hour.” Rambler rambled, “and hopefully with whatever it is removed, he’ll be more willing to eat.”

 

Morax listened as he watched her make her medicines. He knew she was just keeping him informed but he seemed to be forming a headache. No doubt because of lack of sleep and from what sleep he did get, being interrupted.

 

“Do you need me to send anyone for assistance?” Morax asked, focusing on the matter at hand. “I know Bonanus would be willing to help if you need extra hands.

 

“No, I should be able to handle this on my own, even if complications occur.” She answered. “You look tired, go get some rest, I’ll come inform you if something else happens.”

 

“If you insist.” Morax didn’t argue. “I’ll retire for the day after I’ve finished our meeting.”

 

Morax left shortly afterward. He trusts in Rambler and her medical knowledge. He believes she’ll be successful. 

 

It took little time to return to the War Room. He wasn’t gone for too long and was pretty sure the unexpected break was enough for everyone to get their thoughts settled.

 

Everyone looked at him curiously and expectantly.

 

“My Lord.” Bosacius spoke up as Morax took his seat. “May I ask why your arm is bandaged?”

 

“You may.” Morax said, “and it is exactly like you think, yet not.”

 

Morax closed his eyes, gathering his thoughts together before addressing the meeting.

 

“The Adeptus woke up. He refused food and water before entering a state of distress.” Morax updated them. “He grew agitated and sick before lashing out with his teeth.”

 

Morax held the bandaged arm up for everyone. 

 

“It was a fight or flight response no doubt as shortly afterwards, he backed away in an attempt to get away from me before passing out again.”

 

Everyone took in the update.

 

“Is he a danger to be concerned about?” Menogias asked calmly, “Should we have a guard posted around his room or for the other patients Streetward Rambler tends to?”

 

“No, he’s more of a danger to himself, a guard shouldn’t be necessary. On top of that, while trying to find a cause, Rambler discovered some she is currently working on fixing. I shall share more once we know more.”

 

The room became quiet. It appears that no one had questions for the god that weren’t already asked.

 

“Guizhong.” Morax turned to his fellow god. “Have you discovered anything about that strange flower I found?”

 

“Yes and no.” Guizhong folded her hands into her lap, pursing her lips. “I have never seen a flower like it before, nor does it seem like an ordinary flower.”

 

Guizhong pulled out a paper from her sleeve.

 

“It’s seedless, scentless, and doesn't require water or light. It acts like a flower in every other regard but will not wilt. It’s only been a few days and the cuttings do not propagate.” She took a breath before continuing. “It’s definitely not a flower from this region, nor is it a flower I’ve heard about in other regions. I plan on trying to contact the Goddess of Wisdom. As the established Dendro Archon and her connections to the tree of knowledge, I’m hoping she’ll have some answers for me.”

 

Morax gave her a nod when she finished up her meager report. Time to address the rest of the reports.

 

“How are the surrenders doing?”

 

“All is well with them, most are happy to have a new ruler and aren’t giving us any problems.” Bosacius reported, “However, there is talk that one of Shǎndiàn Adepti generals wasn’t present at the fight and has fled the lands.”

 

“Verify that information please. How are border defenses?”

 

Morax went had all the generals report the current status of things. Overall things looked good, there was some minor strain on some resources and supplies from being spread out but nothing that won’t remedy itself with help and hard work.

 

“Very well.” Morax stood up to dismiss the meeting. “Is there anything else to report?”

 

No one said anything and he declared the meeting over. 

 

“Morax.” Guizhong walked over to him. “Where are you going now?”

 

“I’m going back to sleep.” Morax answered. “Why do you ask?”

 

“I thought you were going to go back to check on Adeptus.” She said, pouting and putting her hands on her hips. “I wanted to join you to see how he was doing.”

 

“You're welcome to go see him for yourself.” Morax was unphased by her antics. “But I’m tired and my head hurts.”

 

“I suppose that’s fair.” She concedes, “You have been working rather hard and I did wake you up rather abruptly.”

 

“Yes, you did.”

 

“We’ll have a good sleep, I’ll come wake you up again if anything happens.”

 

Morax watched Guizhong head in the direction of the teapot, waving as she did.

 

He returned to his own Domain and much as he wanted to just fall into bed, he also wanted a shower. If he was going to sleep on his own accord he'd do so properly and after a cup of tea.

Notes:

Hoped you all like it. I just keep tacking one problem on top of another because Angst.

As always please let me know what you think and how it's going. And if there are mistakes, I do write when I'm supposed to be sleeping and I don't always catch them when I go back through it.

Updates are probably going to slow down for a while due to reasons but I'll still try to get the chapters out when I can and as soon as I'm done writing them.

Chapter 13

Notes:

Life decided not to fall apart this week so here's a chapter.

Enjoy.

It was dark.

 

That was normal, he thought.

 

...But… he remembered it being brighter… maybe it was a dream.

 

Where was he? Why did it feel hot? That wasn’t normal. The room was cold. It was always cold. So that means he wasn’t in the room anymore.

 

Did he pass out during a mission? Was he knocked unconscious by his target?

 

...Good…

 

But he didn’t remember a mission…

 

Something touched his lips. But that shouldn’t be possible with his mask on. Liquid trickled into his mouth. It was bitter, like nightmares.

 

He didn’t want it. Food was bad. He couldn’t help as he suddenly jerked awake, spitting out whatever was put in his mouth and kicking his feet to back away from whoever’s hands were touching him.

 

He fell a short distance, landing on his side before pressing himself into a corner.

 

Wait…

 

He… did that before didn’t he? In the dream…?

 

His eyes blinked slowly, as he took in the room before him. 

 

His eyes immediately snapped to the other person in the room. It was that fierce looking woman who had been in the room shortly after Morax found him. This time she looked less fierce and more gentle.

 

So they chose to keep him. He’ll be under Morax’s control now… or did they want to have him survive long enough to hold his execution?

 

He accepted both as answers.

 

She asked him questions, but he did not answer them. He did not look at the water or food she set down in front of him again. He did not watch as she walked away with a frown.

 

He stared at his feet. Wrapped in nice clean bandages, wasted on something like him.

 

His stomach felt weird. It twinged and twisted, feeling more empty than ever before. His head was heavy and his skin tingled. He didn’t like it.

 

The sound of footsteps came back, they did not enter the room they were keeping him in. In fact they were walking away from the room.

 

He looked at the bowl of food in front of him. His stomach called out for it but he refused to calm it.

 

Food was a trick, a punishment, something to be used against him. He didn't trust it or the water next to it. 

 

Speaking of the food, he wonders why he isn’t being punished. In the dream… no memory, he remembers breaking something. Surely they’re mad about that?

 

He looked at the spot where he made the mess. It was clean, no stains, no remnants of broken pottery, nothing.

 

The footsteps came back, another set joined in the sound this time.

 

The fierce lady went and got someone. Was it time for punishment?

 

As they grew louder, he could sense an overwhelming amount of Geo energy with each step.

 

He stood straight up, banging his shoulder into the table he was next to with a loud thud.

 

She didn’t get just anyone, she got his new Master.

 

The sound he made only caused them to enter the room faster. He kept his head down as the two made their way over to him.

 

And then nothing…?

 

The god and the fierce lady stopped a few feet away from him. They made no move to come closer or to leave. 

 

They talked to each other before the lady moved to the other side of the room and took a seat in a chair. 

 

He did not look up.

 

Morax turned to face him, causing a flinch to escape his control. 

 

“I’m glad to see you are awake.” Morax’s voice startled another flinch out of him. “How are you feeling?”

 

He didn’t answer. Even if he did it would likely result in pain.

 

“What is your name?”

 

His name…? Why would Morax want to know that? Did he even have a name? He couldn’t remember. Did he ever have a name? He still didn’t give an answer.

 

“Hmm… Can you understand me?”

 

At this question, he did choose to answer, giving the god a small nod. Master didn’t like it when he didn’t understand what she said.

 

“You are the Demon, correct?”

 

Another but hesitant nod, a truth he wished wasn’t true.

 

“Do you know where you are?”

 

He shook his head no this time.

 

“You are currently in the medical ward for the Adepti who reside under my rule.”

 

He was confused why they would put him here and not in a cell, or torture chamber.

 

“Are you aware of Shǎndiàn’s fate?”

 

Who was that? He tilted his head. He can’t recall that name.

 

“Ehem… your Master’s fate.”

 

He nodded. He would not be here if she was still alive. 

 

His head felt like it was getting heavier, along with his eyes. He felt his legs shaking in their effort to keep him up.

 

No, must stay awake in the presence of gods.

 

“May I ask why you will not eat?”

 

He glanced at the now cool bowl of soup before darting his eyes back to the ground.

 

“You are allowed to eat this.” Morax told him. It didn’t sound like an order or command, so he did nothing. “It will not be taken away if that’s what you're worried about.”

 

He still made no move for the food.

 

“Hmm.” He heard Morax hum. “So it’s not a permission problem.”

 

“Can you eat something? You don’t have to eat all of it.”

 

Was that an order? No… it didn’t sound like one.

 

His inaction caused another pause from Morax. 

 

He watched the god from the edge of his Vision. No doubt the god was getting frustrated with him. Master… no Shǎndiàn, Morax was his Master now, would always be frustrated with him, resulting in punishment.

 

He tried not to flinch when his Master picked up the bowl of food. Here it comes, he’ll be forced to eat it.

 

However, Master made no move towards him. He watched as the god took a spoon full and ate it himself. 

 

He squeezed his eyes shut, waiting for the trick to show itself. His heart hammered in his chest knowing that whatever happened, he would be blamed or punished for it.

 

Nothing happened. 

 

He blinked his eyes open again to see his Master was fine. Not keeling over, or sick, or dazed. Just fine.

 

“The food is simply, just food.” Master told him, reaching the bowl towards him. “Please eat.”

 

That… sounded more like an order, yet not in a tone he’s familiar with.

 

He stared at the bowl. Master was giving him a chance to eat it himself or to have it forced down later. He hesitantly reached for the bowl. Master was still not showing any ill effects from eating it.

 

He slowly brought the spoon to his mouth. His hand shook, causing some of the red liquid to fall back into the bowl. He cautiously placed it in his mouth.

 

It tasted awful.

 

He took another after swallowing the first down his sore throat and he felt nothing bad.

 

A shiver shook his body, causing him to start shaking. Despite the shivers he was feeling warm. 

 

A strange look crossed Master’s face as his body tilted forward. The last thing he saw was dark arms coming towards him.

Notes:

Yes I'm aware this chapter disrupts the flow a bit, but I felt like it was time for another Xiao POV.

As always let me know what you think.

Chapter 14

Notes:

Here's a new chapter for you guys.

It's time for a spacer chapter full of made up information about Lore we don't have yet, weee. Well at least near the end.

Hope you enjoy.

Morax wouldn’t admit it but he was pouting.

 

Every time he’s in the Adeptus’ presence he either passes out or falls unconscious. The god was very much aware that it was the state of the boy that was causing it, but it didn’t make it any less disheartening. This time it was caused by the fever he was running.

 

Rambler was just glad that the Adeptus finally ate something. The wariness toward food he noticed was concerning. What would cause that kind of caution towards food?

 

Rambler came and grabbed him when the Adeptus woke up again and still wouldn’t eat, hoping that a perceived authority figure would be enough to get him to eat. It was, yet at the same time he saw and felt the unease the Adeptus exhibited towards the food.

 

Rambler was working on checking the wounds. While he was cleaning up the newly split bowl of soup from when the Adeptus toppled over.

 

Over the course of the last several days, infection became apparent in several of the injuries covering the boy’s body, including the one Morax caused. He was surprised the Adeptus was even able to stand as long as he did.

 

On a better note, Morax was glad the Adeptus was aware. Aware but ignorant, but Morax was as well. The Adeptus was aware that Shǎndiàn was gone which was good. Morax was glad he was able to get to ask the boy some questions but some answers were still eluded. 

 

Like the Adeptus’ name. His beast form. How old he was and how he ended up a slave to the goddess. Why the bezoar Rambler pulled out of him had rocks and remnants of that shimmering flower he found in Shǎndiàn possession. If he knew what they were. Did he have family looking for him?

 

Then there was the matter of the Dream-eating. What was the reason? Why could he do it? Was it something Shǎndiàn forced him to do? Did he have to eat them to survive? If so, was there a way to do so without leaving victims behind?

 

Hmm, he’ll have to do some research. A memory tickled the back of his mind about Adepti who warded off nightmares, maybe there’s a connection to their mysterious Adeptus hiding there. After all, nightmares are just bad dreams.

 

With luck he could find a lead or an Adeptus that has answers.

 

A knock at the door broke Morax out of his thinking. It was Bonanus, she was holding a basket of herbs and materials.

 

“I’ve got the stuff you requested, Rambler.” The hydro Yaksha paused, not expecting to see the god. “How is he doing?”

 

“He woke up briefly and we got him to eat something.” Rambler relayed, “but passed out again shortly afterwards.”

 

Bonanus sets the basket of stuff on the nearby table and made her way to the bed, taking a seat on the side.

 

“I suppose that’s an improvement?”

 

Morax stood from the now cleaned ground, placing his towel in a nearby bin. He was glad that his general had shown up. He wasn’t aware she was still helping Rambler and thought he would have to track her down.

 

“I’ll take my leave now.” 

 

Morax made his way to the door before pausing in the doorway. 

 

“Bonanus, tomorrow I will have a special assignment for you and Bosacius.” The god told the Yaksha. “But don’t worry about it for now, I need to go look something up first.”

 

“Very well.” Bonanus acknowledged, “We will be waiting for you at the Yaksha Pavilion.”

 

Morax gave her a nod of appreciation and left. Leaving Rambler’s sun space entirely, he made his way to his Domain. It housed not only is residence but also a collection of books and knowledge he’s gathered in the hundreds of years of knowing Guizhong.

 

He skimmed through several books on the history of Adepti, from their suspected origins to powers and secret arts. He’s found nothing so far.

 

He didn’t know how long he browsed as his book pile grew larger and larger. His finger paused on a book. It was not one from Liyue, but from Sumeru, titled: ‘Dreams and Everything You Need to Know About Them”.

 

It was a very old title. If he remembers correctly it was a gift from Azdaha when he came back from sightseeing. One of several books the rock brought back with him.

 

It might not have any relevance to what he was looking for but it couldn’t hurt to check it out. He flipped through the pages. 

 

Most of it was research results and theoretical  topics. How dreams affect people and the newly established Akasha Terminal in Sumeru. He was just about to put the book down when a page caught his attention. 

 

‘Dreams and Creatures’

 

Most of the chapter talked about the Aranara. Plant-like creatures that are seen as more myth than real and how they are commonly seen by children but rarely by adults. The researchers concluded that it was because children have an easier time coming up with dreams.

 

It wasn’t the information he was hoping for but he read on hoping to see a mention of dream-eaters. There wasn't, instead he found a passage about Liyue.

 

‘In my travels I stumbled upon a small village in the borders of Liyue. By happenstance they happened to pray and honor Adepti who could banish nightmares. When I inquired about the beings I was informed that the Adepti in question were skittish and rarely showed themselves to humans, but if brought the proper offering one could make an appearance. If you were lucky you could catch glimpses of them dancing and playing as they chased the nightmares away. I knew better than to take word of mouth so I spent my time learning all I could about them. From their legends to what little evidence of them existed.”

 

Morax skimmed down more, interested to see where this was going, but unfortunately the passage about the Adepti ended there with a ‘for more information please refer to Volume 4: Dreams and the Adepti of Liyue’.

 

He quickly scanned his bookcase for the Volume in question, pulling it down the second he found it. This was as good as any clue he’d probably find.

 

Morax flipped through the pages, skimming the words for the relevant information.

 

“When the Dream Adepti finally chose to meet with me, I learned a lot about them. They don’t so much as chase bad dreams away, or cast magic to prevent them, instead they consume them. When I inquired about the consumption of good dreams I was informed it was forbidden unless they were specifically offered by the dream’s owner or else there would be consequences. When I pressed for more details, They chose to remain silent. My time in the small village near Nantianman was greatly insightful.”

 

The remainder of the book talked about different Adeptal Arts that could affect dreams in different ways. It seems that that was all he could learn.

 

But now he has a place to start looking.

Notes:

Now I thought to myself, 'how do I make writing harder on me, oh I know, write a story within a story.'

Hopefully the 'research book' seems like it fits and the made up information seems like it's plausible.

As always let me know what you think, all feedback helps me improve and check the flow of the story.

Chapter 15

Notes:

Boom, new chap for y'all.

I thought it was high time for another Bonanus chapter and it's a bit on the longer side.

Enjoys.

Bonanus kicked her feet as she enjoyed her snack while waiting for Lord Morax and her brother to show up at the Pavillion.

 

She was aware that this special mission probably had something to do with the Adeptus. Bonanus was aware she was picked because she was the Reconnaissance General and as such handles most of the missions that fall along those lines.

 

Bosacius was probably picked because he’s technically the head of the Generals and the warriors. He’s made his disdain for the Adeptus known, even after the meeting. Suspecting that there was a trick somewhere, believing that nothing could force someone to cause so much bloodshed unless they desired to.

 

Hopefully he’ll understand once he actually gets to meet the Adeptus… or at the very least change his way of thinking about him.

 

“Bon!”

 

Speak of the Adeptus and they shall appear. Bosacius made his way over to the Pavilion and took up the space next to her.

 

“Want a Wonton?” Bonanus offered up the plate of her snacks. “Knowing Lord Morax we could be for at least an hour.”

 

“Do you have an idea on what the mission is about?” Bosacius asked, snatching not only the Wonton she offered but one of her Grilled Skewers as well. 

 

“Not really, he didn't say much.” She told him, shooing his third hand away from stealing more food. “Just that he had to look something up first, I think it might be about our Adeptus friend.”

 

“You mean the Demon?” Bosacius injected. “He is not our friend.” 

 

“Very astute of you, General Chizapus.” A deep voice sounded behind her. “And General Vritras, while technically correct, just because he not our friend does not mean he is still our enemy.”

 

Both she and Bosacius stood to attention at Morax’s unexpected appearance.

 

“I made my judgment on the Adeptus known as the Demon based on what I’ve seen. I respect that you don’t agree with me and know the reason why, General Vritras.” Morax gently scolded, “but don’t be so blinded by half-truths and rumors.”

 

Bonanus saw Bosacius’ head drop slightly at the scolding. Their attention was brought back to Morax when the god cleared his throat.

 

“Moving on.” The god pulled out a map, laying it across the Pavillion’s table. “This is the area I want you to explore today.”

 

The two generals watched as Morax drew an invisible circle around an area between the edges of Mt. Hulao, Tianqiu Valley, and the northeast border of Sumeru.

 

“May I ask.” Bonanus piped up, “Why this area?

 

“My search to see if there were stories about Dream-eaters led me to learning about a clan of Adepti who lived somewhere near Nantianmen, they would visit a village located there.” Morax explained, “While it didn’t give me an exact location, or much description of the Adepti themselves, they did mention one of their abilities which closely matched one we know the Demon uses.”

 

“Which is?” Bosacius prompted.

 

“The ability to eat Dreams, or in the information I found, Nightmares.” Morax clarified. “While not exactly the same, the concept is the same and it’s our only lead so far into learning more about the Adeptus.”

 

“Should we be wary of more like him?” Bosacius asked? “Is that why I’m being sent along?”

 

“No, the clan was stated to be peaceful and wary of strangers and humans.” Morax informed him. “In all likelihood… you probably won’t be able to find them unless they want you too.”

 

Bonanus looked at the area of the map. It was quite a  large area to cover, with sheer cliff sides and mountains.

 

“I accept the mission.” Bonanus told Morax, “However I requested that General Kapisas join us.”

 

“I agree.” Bosacius added, seemingly also accepting the mission, “His affinity with Geo will be a great help with finding anything hidden in the cliff and mountain sides, as well as his diplomatic nature.”

 

“Very well.” Morax rolled up the map, handing it to them, “I shall go inform him of the change in schedule and have him meet you by the city gate.”

 

The two Yaksha gave a salute and finished off the snacks and went their separate ways to prepare for the mission they were just handed.

 

Bonanus packed for a standard scouting mission, with a little extra supply in case anything happened. It didn’t take very long, nor was the wait on her brother at the gate.

 

They were Generals after all.

 

“Let's get going.” Bonanus said, activating the way point near the gate.

 

It was a very short affair, teleporting to the beautiful valley of Nantianmen.

 

“Lord Morax caught you up on the mission, correct?” Bosacius asked his brother. “Where do you think we should start?”

 

The Geo Yaksha peered around the valley, thinking.

 

“Lord Morax mentioned a village, correct?” Menogias received a confirmation nod from both of them. “Then we start by finding the village.”

 

Without saying a word, the three of them spread out. Clearing out Monsters and underbrush they encountered. 

 

Bonanus sigh after an hour. There was no sigh of people, let alone a village. How could they of not known there was a human settlement so close to Jueyun Karst and the Stone Forest.

 

Most of the area was untouched by humans and Adepti alike. She followed the river that seemed newly formed from the pooling water that flowed down from Huaguang.

 

It didn’t lead her very far but did lead her to the other part of the valley. She spotted a small stone structure in the distance.

 

“Hey over here!” She called out to her brothers in the distance and moved toward the building.

 

It was unfortunately the only building to be seen, half buried in the ground as time and nature reclaimed it.

 

“Menogias, can you see if the rest of the village was buried along with this… temple?” Bonanus asked. 

 

“Of course.”

 

Bonanus watch as Menogias closed his eyes to focus, sending pulses of energy throughout the ground to search for anything hiding in the ground. While he did that, she took in the area.

 

It was a small plateau, lush with nature and secured by cliffs. It was quiet and secluded. She followed a long faded path and found more stone work.

 

Whatever village was here must have belonged to an old human kingdom, or a god that’s been long defeated in the war. She found more stone structures. All broken and crumbling, leading off a cliff to more destruction.

 

She counted three remnants of similar stone temples from what she could see. Did that mean three Adepti they honored?

 

“Bon!” Bosacius’ voice carried across the quiet valley. “Come look at this!”

 

She quickly returned to her brothers at the call. Menogias and Bosacius dug up the ground, revealing what happened to the village.

 

Charred wood, obviously used for housing. 

 

A fire burned the village down and it seemed that the people chose not to return.

 

“Well we found the village.” Menogias said, scratching the back of his head, “but where are the Adepti?”

 

Yes, where were the Adepti. This entire time she hasn’t sensed anyone other than themselves here, felt no eyes, or presence watching them.

 

She scanned the valley again, using all the knowledge she knew. They were wary of strangers, so they would not be along the paths or where humans roam. There were no caves or openings along the cliff faces or ground suggesting a hidden domain or den. They would not be in an area where they could be easily found by other Adepti as well

 

Turning her eyes up to the cliff that was in the direction of the Sumerian border.

 

“There.”

 

They would have to be up there somewhere. She was sure of it.

 

Bonanus wasted no time scaling the cliff side, her monstrous hands making it easy to scale the sheer face. Her brothers struggled to follow as fast. 

 

A small hill was at top, blocking the view of the land behind it. She quickly made her way over it, not giving herself to catch her breath and was met with the sight of a lake.

 

It was beautiful and serene and pure. Human paths did lead to the lake, but they were worn and reclaimed by nature, like the village.

 

That’s when she noticed the plants. The plants, while beautiful like the rest of the landscape, were young. Too young for land untouched by humans.

 

“Wow.”

 

Her brothers caught up.

 

She still didn’t sense any Adepti in the area, but there was a faint source of Adeptal Energy emitting from across the lake.

 

“Follow me.” Bonanus told her brother, who also sensed the faint presence.

 

She led the two around the lake and up the small stony mountain. She paused when the energy was right in front of her, but only a stack of rocks sat in its place. 

 

It was a perfect spot for wary Adepti, she noted as an afterthought, high enough to not immediately be seen by people visiting the lake, but had enough of a vantage point to see all the paths leading to the lake.

 

Was this it? Just a dead end?

 

“Allow me.” 

 

Menogias stepped forward, arms glowing as he used his powers to shift the rock revealing a cave.

Notes:

Drops cliffhanger in chapter talking bout cliffs a lot... oops.... hehehe >:]

Anyways, as always let me know what you think, I always appreciate feedback, even if you're just pointing out mistakes or have a complaint, or complement. all of it goes towards helping improve my writing and motivation to get more and better chapters out for you guys

Any guesses on what's in that cave?

And yes, most of the areas I describe actually exist in the game and you can get to them. I just hoped I did them justice in the story while also trying to imagine what it would look like thousands of years ago. so not 100% accrue to game

Chapter 16

Notes:

Hope you enjoy this chapter.

I had a thought and it gave me a mental image and I ran with it. I hope you like.

It's a bit of a long one for y'all too.

P.s. before you say anything, it's been a long, long time since I've been near a child and can only hope I portrayed it right.

Indarias let out a big sigh. 

 

Everyone else was out on mission and tasks, including her siblings, leaving her to play babysitter to Little Ganyu.

 

Which was fine, she loves the little Half-Adeptus but she could barely hold a conversation with the child and it left her bored as the Qilin child picked flowers.

 

She laid back, leaving against a tree and watched the clouds drift slowly by. 

 

Closing her eyes as she listened to the little Adeptus babble to herself. Indarias couldn’t help but enjoy the good day, even if it was boring. They were getting rarer and rarer the longer the war dragged on.

 

Indarias supposed there could be worse things she could be spending her free time doing, a chance to be lazy never hurt anyone before.

 

“Indy, Indy.” A little hand smacked her leg, causing her to open her eyes, “Lookie!”

 

The little Qilin was holding a Glaze Lily and had a purple tint to it, as opposed to the usual blue.

 

“Looks like your eyes.” Ganyu told her, crawling into her lap to try and place the flower into her hair.

 

“Oh does it?” Indarias asked the child, taking the flower from her. “I think it matches your eyes more.”

 

Indarias carefully tucked the flower behind the girl’s ear.

 

“There, as pretty as a princess.”

 

Ganyu squealed from joy and took off running to find more flowers, pausing every few moments to make sure the flower hadn’t fallen off.

 

Holding her hand up, Indarias checked the sun’s position. It was almost noon. She’ll let Ganyu run around some more before attempting to wrangle her for some lunch and hopefully a nap.

 

The Pryo Yaksha ended up holding each of the flowers Ganyu deemed pretty enough to pick. It was an impressive haul for the young Adeptus.

 

“Are you ready for lunch now?” Indarias asked the child, holding a hand out for her to hold as they walked.

 

“Food!” The girl cheered. “Wanna see Ping!”

 

“Ping?”

 

That was the name Streetward Rambler gave to younger kids who had a hard time saying her name wasn’t it?

 

“Yes! Ping!” Ganyu exclaimed again. “Bring flowers for… hurt people!”

 

“I see.” Indarias finally figured out what the child meant. “You want to go give your flowers to Madam Ping and the people she’s caring for right?”

 

“Right!”

 

“Well I suppose we can stop by and see if she has time.” Indarias said, changing their course for Rambler’s Teapot. “But you need to behave, the people in Ping’s Teapot need lots of peace and quiet.”

 

“Okay!”

 

The walk was short, with Ganyu talking about the newest thing she’s learned from Cloud Retainer… well as best she can, the child only recently started using what could be considered full sentences.

 

“I hope we aren’t intruding.” Indarias said when she entered the building. “Ganyu wanted to give flowers to the patients you currently have.”

 

“Not at all.” Rambler told her. “I’ve just finished giving most of them their lunch.”

 

The healer turned to Ganyu. 

 

“I’m sure everyone will be happy to get a flower.” She told the child. “Why don’t you go hand them out, just don’t go into the first room alright?”

 

“Alright!”

 

They watched Ganyu toddle off with her handful of flowers down the hall.

 

“The first room.” Indarias began to ask “is that…?”

 

“Yes, the Adeptus Morax rescued.” Rambler answers her unfinished questions. “He’s also the only one who hasn’t eaten yet.”

 

Rambler ladles some soup into a cup, setting it to the side to cool.

 

“He’s refusing food?” Indarias was incredulous at the thought. “I was told he was malnourished.”

 

“Oh he is.” Rambler confirmed. “But today it’s more because his fever’s been keeping him down.”

 

Rambler took a seat at the table in her kitchen, gesturing for Indarias to join her.

 

“He would probably still refuse food even if he was awake.” The healer said with a sigh.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

Before Indarias could get an answer she was distracted by the sound of a loud thunk sound. Rambler let out another sigh, as if the sound was a common occurrence but something she can’t stop.

 

“What was that?”

 

“He’s awake and probably threw himself off the bed again.” Rambler answered, picking up the now cool cup of soup. “Follow if you want, but I know you and Ganyu still need lunch.”

 

Indarias stood to follow. Admittedly curious about the Demon and if everything Morax observed was true or not. Not that she’d doubt her lord but seeing is believing.

 

“Speaking of Ganyu.” Indarias said as they entered the hall, “Where’d she go?”

 

That's when she saw the door to the first room was open. Ganyu must have forgotten she wasn’t supposed to go in there and woken up the Demon.

 

“Ganyu!”

 

Indarias rushed in. The Demon spared no one, not even children. If the Demon was willing to injury a god like Morax, then Ganyu was nothing to him.

 

But she paused in the doorway. Ganyu was laying the remainder of her flower out across the bed while the Demon pressed himself as far away from the child as he could get. While his face betrayed nothing, the darting of his eyes around the room told her of his panic.

 

It was almost funny. 

 

The feared Demon cowering from a child.

 

His eyes landed on her. Causing her to jump to alertness in case he did anything.

 

But he didn’t move. His eye held something in them as she stared into them. Indarias note he wasn’t actually staring at her, but her hair that she kept alight with her Pyro energy.

 

Guess he doesn’t like fire if he chose to focus on the flaming hair over the former enemy in the room.

 

Indarias pushed back her elemental energy, causing her hair to snuff out and turn back into just her regular red hair. In doing so, his eyes finally met her’s.

 

She held her hands up to show peace as she took a step into the room.

 

“Ganyu.” Choosing to address the child. “You weren’t supposed to come in here, remember?”

 

“Ohh. I forgot.” Ganyu said, but didn’t seem apologetic. “And he looked like he needs flowers!”

 

Ganyu ran around the bed holding one of the flower, causing the Demon to force himself into the corner to keep his distance. Indarias relaxes a bit as it seems like the Demon didn’t want to hurt Ganyu.

 

“How about I give him the flowers?” She placed a hand on the small girl’s shoulder, stopping her from getting closer. “And you go help Madam Ping bring him food?”

 

The Demon flinched. She didn’t know why he did. 

 

“Okay.” Ganyu accepted the change in tasks. “Bye. bye.”

 

She let out a breath once the girl left the room. While she could see he didn’t want to hurt Ganyu, it doesn't mean he wouldn't if he felt cornered.

 

The Demon must have had a similar sense of relief because he just dropped to the ground, startling her.

 

Indarias blinked.

 

She no longer saw the Demon. Instead she saw what Bonanus was talking about. A young and tortured Adeptus.

 

The sighs of fever became very apparent once he dropped. The glazed over eyes, the flushed cheeks. The only thing that told Indarias that he was still alert was his eyes following her as she gathered the flowers from his bed and placed them in a nearby vase. 

 

There was a knock at the door before Rambler and Ganyu entered carrying a tray of bowls.

 

“What?”

 

“I wanted to try something.” Rambler explained, handing one of the bowls to her, “and since you haven’t had lunch yet it works out.”

 

“Okay?” Indarias said, watching Rambler place another bowl on the table and handing the last on to Ganyu. “What do I do?”

 

“Just eat.” Rambler told her. “Ganyu, for every two bites you eat, I want you to try and get our guest here to eat one, alright?”

 

“Alright!”

 

“You sure it’s a good idea to have Ganyu so close to his mouth?” Indarias whispered, watching the Adeptus child carefully carry the bowl, “Doesn’t he bite?”

 

“It should be fine.” Rambler assured her, “Plus we are here in case anything happens

 

Indarias followed Rambler and sat down in the chairs, keeping an eye on Ganyu and the Adeptus as they started eating. 

 

The Adeptus regained more of his alertness when Ganyu came back and was still trying to keep as much distance from her as he could manage, going as far as to start growling at her. Ganyu was unphased by it and sat down in front of him. It seems like he no longer had the energy to try and move away.

 

“So what’s the point in this?” Indarias asked, taking a spoonful.

 

“To see if he’ll be more likely to eat if everyone else is.”

 

“And you’re letting Ganyu feed him because?”

 

“To show that he can trust the food.” She was told, “If he sees a child willing to eat the food, he’ll probably be more likely to trust it and eat it himself.”

 

“So you think he’s been tricked with food?” Indarias gathered, “That he was made to eat something or had something hidden in his food that could do him harm?”

 

“Something along that line.” Rambler admits. “I think Morax has his own theories, he was the one who had the idea to take a bite as a way to get him to eat.”

 

They watched as Ganyu took her own bite of food. The Adeptus’ face looked conflicted as she took the second but ultimately didn’t move to do anything. His growling picked up when Ganyu held the spoon out to him.

 

His golden eyes flicked toward them for a moment before returning to Ganyu. That was because she was pressing the spoon against his lips. The act seemed to shock him, letting the spoon slip in.

 

He recoiled and spat the liquid out.

 

“No!” Ganyu scolded childishly, “Like this!”

 

Ganyu took two more bites, as if showing him how to eat.

 

“Now you do two!” She said, lifting the spoon again. “Ah!!”

 

At this point Ganyu was practically sitting next to the Adeptus. Her actions and lack of fear seemed to have confused him enough that he stopped growling. 

 

Whatever was going through his mind, it was enough to let Ganyu get what she wanted and he ate his two bites. 

 

Indarias watched as Ganyu managed go get the Demon to eat two more spoonfuls of soup, making it four total. However his face scrunched up and turned away from the fifth.

 

“Alright.” Rambler said, picking up Ganyu from the floor. “I believe he’s done now, you did a good job Ganyu.”

 

“But there's still more.” Ganyu wiggled in Rambler’s hold. “I’m not done.”

 

Indarias followed Rambler out, after picking up the bowls. 

 

“Yes but remember, he’s not feeling well, that’s why he’s here.” Rambler told her. “We need to listen to him when he tells us he’s done, so he doesn’t get more sick.”

 

“Okay…”

 

“Now I believe it’s just about your nap time.” Rambler passed Ganyu to her. “Time for Indarias to take you home now.”

 

The child yawns and settles into the Pyro Yaksha’s shoulder. Oh, she was so cute.

 

Indarias took one more glance into the room at the Adeptus. He also looked tired as he sat shaking in the corner. She bid Rambler a farewell.

 

Guess he’ll be having a nap as well.

Notes:

Nap time for everyone!

Deeded to add a bit of fluff to the angst, change the pace a bit.

Anyway my thought was, what if Xiao eats for baby Ganyu and this chapter was born.

I'll admit I wanted Indarias to meet Xiao a lot later but it seemed perfect for her to come in with Ganyu in this chapter.

Let me know what you think I always appreciate feed back and knowing if there are mistakes.

Chapter 17

Notes:

Here's another chapter you all.

another longer one so I hope you enjoy.

Morax entered the room.

 

Rambler was tending to the Adeptus, rung out a cloth, replacing it on the boy’s forehead. The room was dim, chilled by Mistflower Corollas Rambler placed around the room. The healer sat in a chair, switching from changing the cloth and changing the dirty bandages with new, clean ones.

 

“His fever spiked last night.” Rambler told him, not even turning around to greet him. “I’m glad I decided to check on him.”

 

She sounded tired and resigned.

 

“Was it caused by something new? Or one of the current problems.”

 

“I’m hoping one of the current problems.” Rambler admits, “but I couldn’t tell you.”

 

“Well I have some news from Bonanus’ scout.” Morax took a seat on the other side of the bed. “They found the place that was possibly his home before.”

 

“And?” Rambler urged him to continue

 

“Nothing but a fading spirit of an Adeptus.” He revealed, “She and the other generals are getting the supplies to perform the Mortal Lingering Art with the spirit before it passes on in hope of it knowing something.”

 

“I suppose it’s something.” Rambler wiped the sweat off the boy. “Hopefully we can learn what his beast form is from it, I suspect it might be just as injured as his human form.”

 

“If we have to, we could always have the other Adepti come visit in their forms and see if he’ll subconsciously turn back.” Morax suggested, “I’d rather not have to trick or order him but it might be the only way.”

 

“I agree. What of Guizhong’s outreach to the Dendro Archon?” Rambler asked him. “Any word from them about that flower?”

 

“She sent a Junior Yaksha with a letter and a copy of her notes.” He explained, “she hopes that sending a non-human will help get the message to Lord Rukkhadevata faster.”

 

“We should hear something back from them hopefully soon.”

 

Rambler didn’t say anything as she rung out the cloth again.

 

“How is he doing other than the fever?”

 

“He could be doing worse, but I wouldn’t say he’s doing good…”

 

She let out another resigned breath.

 

“His Adeptal Energy levels are still concerningly low, he’s still dehydrated, which the fever isn’t helping with, and…” She unwrapped some of the bandages on his arm. “He started scratching at himself. I don’t know if it’s because of the healing cuts or something else.”

 

She replaced the bandages to how they were and leaned back in the chair.

 

“There are still a lot of unknowns we’re dealing with with him.”

 

Silence fell between them. Morax watched as the Adeptus rolled to the side, one arm reaching for something not there behind his shoulder before changing his reach to the other arm.

 

Rambler gently stopped him from scratching his arm again.

 

The action gave Morax pause. For some reason it looked familiar, who had he’d seen, why did they do it?

 

He closed his eyes to think. While he did have a great memory, it meant he had a lot to sort through.

 

A memory flashed in his mind. A time he accidentally caused Mountain Shaper and Cloud Retainer some grief. At the time they were returning from exploring a human settlement and as such were still in human, or mostly human, forms. It hadn’t gone well in the end, leaving the two birds stressed out. Retainer had done the turning motion, but it was Shaper who did the reaching action, to comb his wing feathers and pluck one.

 

A response to the stress and discomfort.

 

The Adeptus’ movement was similar, probably looked different due to him laying down.

 

Another memory came to Morax, a more recent one that explains why the Adeptus refused to return to his Beast form.

 

Shǎndiàn wore feather accessories. If he remembers correctly, they were gold and teal. Colors that clashed with her schemes of purple and love of silver.

 

Morax didn’t make much notice at the time due to the battle but what if…

 

Some dots started connecting.

 

“I’ll be right back!”

 

Morax kept his calm while leaving. He needed to find one of the birds. 

 

Thankfully he didn’t have to look for too long, Cloud Retainer was just leaving her workshop with Mountain Shaper, their human form suggesting they were about to go eat.

 

Mountain Shaper was probably dragging Cloud Retainer to go get food to make sure she actually ate something.

 

“I need your help with something.” Morax said as he walked up to the two. “Can you follow me?”

 

“Do you need both of us? Or just one of us?” Shaper asked. “We were about to go get some food.”

 

“Just one, in which I would prefer Retainer.” Morax told them, “but both of you probably wouldn’t hurt.”

 

“Very well.” Cloud Retainer said before turning to Mountain Shaper. “Go and grab us something and meet us at…”

 

“Rambler’s Teapot.”

 

“Rambler’s Teapot.” Retainer echoed, “and we’ll eat there.”

 

Mountain Shaper left with no complaints as Cloud Retainer followed him back the short distance to the Teapot.

 

“I assume this is about the Adeptus you found.” Cloud retainer inquired. “Other than watching over him, I don’t see how I can be of much help.”

 

“You’re correct but I’ll explain when we get there.” Morax answered vaguely. “But if my theory is correct then you’ll understand.”

 

“And if your theory is wrong?” 

 

“Then we’ll be back at square one” Morax admitted “And hope the generals were able to find out something to help.”

 

“What is it exactly, that you expect my presence to do?” Cloud Retainer asked. “Other than building mechanisms for your defenses, I am no more than a civilian.”

 

“Don’t be so modest.” Morax chuckled, “You and I both know you have more talents than that.”

 

Morax took a breath, returning to being serious.

 

“I want you to turn into your beast form for him.” Morax explained. “He’s keeping his hidden from us and while I wish not to trick him this way, if what I remembered is correct, then his own beast form might need tending to.”

 

“I see. So you want me to comfort the Adeptus as if he’s a fledgling and see if he’ll respond.” Cloud Retainer surmised. “And why me? Surely Moon Carver would be a better choice.”

 

“Normally yes.” Morax agreed. “But if my guess is correct, he’ll need someone like you and Mountain Shaper.”

 

They entered the room. The Adeptus was still on his side. Given how his body tensed, as if he tried to move, he was somewhat conscious. It only left him laying in the bed shaking. From fear or fever, Morax couldn’t tell.

 

“Open the window please.” Cloud Retainer said as Morax gestures for her to step closer. “Fresh air will help.”

 

Rambler gave him a questioning look but did as Retainer asked, opening the sliding screen window.

 

Cloud Retainer knelt down next to the bed. Her back glowed as she released her wings, changing into her half-beast form.

 

The Adeptus opened his eyes from the sound of ruffling feathers. 

 

“Are you alright child?” Retainer gently moved one of her wings up, as if to offer shelter. “Are you hurting?”

 

The Adeptus didn’t respond. He was staring at the wing. They watched as he slowly reached out to touch them like he didn’t believe they were really there. The touch caused both him and Retainer to flinch a bit.

 

The Adeptus opened and closed his mouth, as if preparing to say something, but all he let out a whistle of sorts. It was the first sound he’s made that wasn’t growling. It changed from a high note to two lower notes.

 

Cloud Retainer mimics the sound back to him.

 

Something seemed to have changed after that. The defensive air around the Adeptus seemed to dissipate a little.  

 

He reached a hand closer to Cloud Retainer who took it in her own.

 

“Can you show what hurts?” Retainer asked again, this time plucking one of her own feathers, handing it to him. “You don’t need to turn back fully, just the parts that are hurting.”

 

The Adeptus dazedly grabbed at the light blue feather before his back started glowing.

 

Two wings appeared before them. If you could still call them wings that is. 

 

Broken grey, teal, and gold feathers covered only half of the wings, with the bare patches raw and no doubt stinging from the air. Strings of what looked like rusted metal wire were entangled around them, making it so he could not extend the joints fully. Blood and pus oozed from where the wires were digging into the flesh of his wings. 

 

Claw marks decorated the exposed flesh where the missing feathers were. Caused by scratching no doubt.

 

Morax was no expert, but even he could deduce that some of the bones were broken from the unnatural unevenness of the where the bone laid.

 

Cloud Retainer’s usual neutral face was twisted into shock and horror at the sight of the wings. Her reaction seems to set off the Adeptus as he started shedding silent tears before turning his face away from her.

 

“It’s okay, young one.” She tried comforting him, gripping the hand she was holding. 

 

Morax has never seen the bird more frazzled then now.

 

Rambler moved towards the door, leaving to grab something to probably help. She came back moments later with a cup in her hand, handing it to Cloud Retainer.

 

“It’s a sedative and painkiller.” She told the crane. “Try and get him to drink it, as much as he can.”

 

“Can you look at me?” Retainer gently shook his shoulder. “I need you to drink this, I’ll make the pain go away.”

 

The Adeptus made no move. Not even to flinch when Cloud Retainer moved her hand to his shoulder for a gentle nudge.

 

“Somethings wrong.” Cloud Retainer told them. “I think he’s fading.”

Notes:

whoop's hehe.

Anyways, the next 'chapter' will be a Q/A so if you have any questions or anything I'm doing that is confusing you be sure to asked and I'll answer it in the Q/A, I will still be writing a new chapter as well to hopefully come out shortly after posting the Q/A, I'll also be addressing some other comments where people have seems confused about something and will hopefully clarify some things.

Hope you enjoys, let me know what you think.

Chapter 18

Notes:

alright, since no one asked any questions for my Q/A, I'll just clarify some things that were comments.

First, about Xiao's canon age. The only think we know about it is that 'he is at least 2000 years old. the reason I'm making him around 4000-5500, give or take, if you were to put current game time, is because he fought in the war itself which only ENDED 2000 years before start of game. The Archon war started roughly around 5-6 thousand years before start of game.

Second, is Ganyu or Xiao the older one canonically? Again since we don't have any actual ages for most of the characters, it's hard to determine. However, I would put them relatively close in age, think like a 10 year old and a 5 year old. As for why I made Xiao older, it is because every time these two are on screen together Ganyu refers to Xiao as someone older/more experienced. She has a respect for him like he's a higher regard/older/ or higher rank. both have fought in the war and afterwards, Xiao agrees to train Ganyu to help re-learn? re-master? her Adeptal Arts.

sorry for the long notes, onto the chapter.

Bonanus was frustrated.

 

All that time and effort put into the Mortal Lingering Art was wasted. When they called out to the spirit of the Adeptus it was too late, they had faded away, leaving behind nothing but an empty cave.

 

It means that the lead the lord Morax had found was now a dead end… quite literally.

 

She was on her way to inform Morax of the setback with Menogias while Bosacius returned the ritual items to their proper places.

 

They were directed to the Teapot by Lady Guizhong, who was handling some civil affairs while waiting for a representative of Lord Rukkhadevata.

 

The Goddess passed on her well wishes for the Adeptus. As the two generals made their way to report in.

 

Bonanus’ frustration quickly dissipated upon entering Rambler’s teapot. Something was off, based on Menogias pausing with her, he felt it as well.

 

Nothing looked off at first glance. Nothing was out of place or missing, but the air was filled with a tension that wasn’t normally present. 

 

There was no reason for it, yet it was there. 

 

Bonanus took a few steps forward, still nothing. It was quiet and calm. It was strange that she hasn’t been greeted by Rambler yet, but if she was with a patient, it was understandable.

 

Menogias followed her to the Adeptus’ room. She gave a knock before entering. 

 

What she saw left her gasping.

 

The room was empty, neither the Adeptus, Morax, or Streetward Rambler was occupying it. The bed was a complete mess. The sheet was thrown haphazardly to the side and pillows laid on the floor. Blood covered the sheet and floor, the red glaring harshly against the white and staining the wood.

 

“What happened?” Menogias voiced the question running through Bonanus’ mind.

 

“I think he hurt himself.” Bonanus answered her brother, taking another look around the room. “Hopefully no one else was hurt too.”

 

Bonanus turned on her heel. There was a trail of blood drops leading down the hall. She followed them to the exam room. She could hear Rambler inside directing someone’s help.

 

Bonanus paused, should she knock and offer help? She was no stranger to blood and the gruesome sight left behind by torture, but she didn’t know what she would find behind that door.

 

Would she be able to handle it?

 

No. Knowing was better than waiting in this scenario.

 

Giving a gentle knock. Loud enough to be heard but soft enough not to startle anyone.

 

“Come in!” Rambler’s voice called through the door. “We can use the extra hands!”

 

The sight behind the door was one she didn’t expect. 

 

The Adeptus was limp in Morax’s arm. His face was pressed into the God’s neck as he was held up like he was simply a sleepy child.

 

It would have been considered cute, if not for the mangled wings stretching out from the boy’s back.

 

Rambler and Cloud Retainer were working quickly trying to cut what looks like rusted wire from the limb. Mountain Shaper was holding the wing up for them to work on it.

 

The other hung limply to the floor.

 

“Menogias, can you help Mountain Shaper hold up his wings!” Rambler directed. “Bonanus, I need water please.”

 

Her brother pushed past her to pick up the other wing from the floor. Cloud Retainer switched to working on that wing, making it so both limbs were being worked on at the same time.

 

Bonanus conjured a ball of water from her elemental energy, commanding it to wash away the blood and grime from the wings as directed by Rambler.

 

The report could wait, Bonanus quickly decided.

 

Morax had his eyes closed, standing as still as a statue. A slight glow was surrounding him. 

 

A sign that he was sharing Adeptal Energy with the Adeptus.

 

It wasn’t a good sign. 

 

Sharing energy is typically a last resort for Adepti, as it was a dangerous practice, especially if the energy doesn’t match correctly. You need a lot of trust in yourself and near perfect control of your energy for it to work with little consequence.

 

At best the both parties get sick and recover. At worst, the one receiving the energy will burn up from the energy and have a small chance of survival.

 

Bonanus was confident that Morax was the best choice, despite his overwhelming energy, the God had the best control and focus of any of them.

 

The sound of snapping metal brought her attention back to everyone else. Rambler had managed to hook a tool of some kind under the wire and pulled it out enough to be snapped apart by a tool that looked like thick clippers.

 

Rambler quickly started working on unwrapping the ends from around the swollen flesh of the wing. 

 

Bonanus cleared the new flowing blood and discharge as the wire was loosened and eventually pulled away. 

 

Rambler moved further down the wing, coiling the loosened wire until it hit another part were it was tangled around the wing. 

 

Cloud Retainer also managed to free up some of the wiring, starting from the tip of his other wing. 

 

The area closest to his back on that wing looked the worst. The wire was wrapped so tightly, she didn’t know if blood was still able to flow or if the area was just swelling up around the wire.

 

When Cloud Retainer finally got the wire loose enough to be cut safely from that area it looked worse. Edges of where the wire sunk into the wing were black. The cuts left behind bled heavily while oozing yellow and clear pus.

 

No doubt, that was going to cause more problems.

 

Bonanus didn’t know much about wings, but she couldn’t see how they would heal enough for the Adeptus to be able to fly with them now.

 

Another snap, this time one of bone, as Rambler set the wing. Quickly wrapping it with a splint before switching to treat the bleeding and wrap the open wounds on the other wing.

 

The poor boy didn’t even so much as twitch at the pain caused by re-breaking a bone.

 

Bonanus disposed of the dirty water she gathered while helping, floating it right out the window and into Rambler’s herb garden. 

 

There was little more she could help with as she watched Rambler wrap and secure each wing with a great many bandages at the direction of the two crane Adepti.

 

Just as the healer made sure that the wings wouldn’t be able to move too much did the Adeptus finally show signs of life. 

 

The Adeptus gave a shudder as the glow from Morax faded. He pulled his head up from the God’s shoulder only to vomit over Morax’s shoulder.

 

“Sit him on the table.” Rambler instructed the unperturbed god. “I’m going to tie his wings to his chest so the weight doesn’t pull on them.”

 

Morax did as instructed but stayed to support the Adeptus who couldn’t seem to hold himself up. His eyes were barely cracked open and his breathing was heavy and choppy. 

 

It was also the most docile she’s seen him. Letting Rambler touch move around him with no growling, or flinching, or escaping to the corner. Given how his eyes weren’t even following her, or anyone, he probably wasn’t even aware right now

 

He didn’t fight as Rambler held a cup to his mouth, not doubt full of medicine and much need water.

 

He didn’t fight as Morax picked him up again to carry him to his room, being held like a child as Rambler quickly changed the sheets.

 

He didn’t fight as he was laid down on his side and had his wing checked one last time before he was left alone.

 

The only thing he did through out all of this, was keep a grasp of a feather.

 

Bonanus didn’t know if his new found complacency was an improvement or not. 

 

It’s almost like he’s just given up...

Notes:

So what's you think.

As always, let me know your thought or if there are any mistakes, all feedback is good feedback and helps me improve the quality of the story.

If there are any questions or anything confusing, let me know and I'll either write clarification or respond back depending. There ARE some things, I'm intentionally leaving vague or confusing which will make some more sense in later chapters.

Hope you enjoyed the chapter.

Chapter 19

Notes:

And... here's Xiao's POV of the last two chapters.

Hope you likey.

And there's a surprise.

He was on fire.

 

He had to be.

 

But every time time he opens his eyes, the same room he’s been in appears. The same fierce eyed, yet cautious, healer tended to him gently.

 

He didn’t like it.

 

He’s tried moving. Tried hiding in his new corner. Tried to just stop the contact on his skin. Tried fighting against the liquid she drips into his mouth.

 

Even if the cold hands calmed the fire he was feeling under his skin.

 

But his limbs wouldn’t move correctly. His head felt heavy. The most he could manage was to roll to his side to try and scratch at his wings. 

 

But he won’t allow them out, never again, it was the one defiance he was able to get away with, just not without punishment 

 

He scratched his arm, pulling at the bandages wrapped around it, hoping it’ll stop the itch he felt.

 

His stomach churned whenever the room seemed to spin, making him dizzy.

 

When it started he thought he’d been poisoned. That the food they made the little one feed him and eat herself was the cause.

 

But when the healer came in and found him in this state, she stayed, and tended to him. Only leaving to replace whatever she had that felt cold on his face.

 

It didn’t make sense to him.

 

Maybe he was poisoned and this was punishment for hurting Morax and making a mess. 

 

But what about the little one? Was she also affected? What did she do? She didn’t seem hesitant about the food they gave her.

 

His head hurt.

 

He tried to growl at her, but only a raspy breath escaped him.

 

Whenever he tried to move, or to do anything really, it felt like any energy he had drained away, forcing his eyes to feel heavy. 

 

He didn’t have enough strength to keep them open anymore. Each time they close, he lost track of everything.

 

The time, the pain, the fear, the healer.

 

They all faded away every time he returned to black. Losing his awareness.

 

He didn’t like it.

 

He didn’t know how much time passed when he became awake again.

 

He thought he felt his new Master’s presence, but the room was quiet, and the only movement was the healer making his face cold again.

 

He rolled over again, the itch was back, but his wings weren’t.

 

Something stopped his hand when it made for his arm. 

 

He tried opening his eyes when he thought he heard the door open, but his sight was blurry, and unhelpful as a brown blob left.

 

‘Was that his Master?’ He thought. 

 

He needs to get up before he comes back. He’ll get in trouble if he doesn’t.

 

But his body still doesn’t listen to him. The effort only took any energy he had, leaving him shaking where he laid, eyes closing once more.

 

Some new happen. Subtle enough he almost didn’t sense it in the haze he was stuck in.

 

He felt a breeze. It breezed across him, making him feel cold despite his burning skin. 

 

A familiar sound, one he has heard in a very long time, caused his heart to beat fast.

 

In fear? In hope? He didn’t know.

 

Was this a trick?

 

He forced his eyes open. He needed to see if it was real or not. Focusing was hard, but eventually he could see clearly.

 

Before him was a women, one he hadn’t seen before. Her face was stony but her eyes were gentle.

 

She said something to him, but his brain couldn’t process it. He was too focused on the pretty white and blue wings, one of which stretched above him, offering shelter.

 

His head hurt.

 

He reach a hand out, using all his effort, to touch the wing. He had to know they were real.

 

He flinched when his hand touched the soft feathers.

 

They were real!

 

Something came over him, a small burst of energy maybe, or a long forgotten emotion, but he open his mouth to say something before he stopped himself.

 

Talking equals pain.

 

He settled for the tune his mother taught from before… everything. She told him it was to call out to family.

 

The lady repeated it back to him, accepting the call.

 

He slid his hand closer to her and she promptly took it in her own. 

 

She spoke to him again. Her voice is calm and steady, reminding him of him mother. She seemed to be asking him a question, but it warped in his ears.

 

Could she help him? Would she be able to fix them? 

 

He hesitated...

 

Break his promises to himself and potentially get his wings hurt again, or trust the other bird, and get them potentially fixed?

 

Does it really matter at this point? He asks himself.

 

He was tired.

 

He watched and she ran a hand through her feathers, preening a loose one and holding it out for him.

 

A sign of trust.

 

He accepted it.

 

His resolve broke and before he knew it, a familiar and painful weight pulled at his shoulders. They stung yet felt numb at the same time.

 

When the bird in front of his face changed to horror at his wing he got his answer. He let himself cry. His wings were too broken weren’t they?

 

He turned away. He wanted to hide them again but he was drained.

 

A breeze tickled his ear as he allowed the darkness to claim him, this time he hoped it was for forever.

 

“Lu…”

 

His eyes crack open again. For a moment his brain seemed to stop as he processed where he was, as it wasn’t the room anymore.

 

He was looking at the wide open sky as the trees surrounding him rustled in the wind. The sound of fish splashing in nearby water filled his ears.

 

It reminded him of home.

 

“Lu…” the soft voice he’d mistaken for wind called again. “Wake up now.”

 

His eyes focused on a person above him, who held his head in her lap.

 

It was his mother, or more accurately the spirit of his mother given she was blue and see through. Her ghostly wings covered him like a blanket, making him feel warm and safe.

 

“I’ve come to say goodbye.” She told him, running her ghostly finger through his hair. “I’ve run out of time, and little Lin’s been waiting.

 

He blinked as he processed her words. She was leaving, moving on and leaving him behind.

 

He reached out to her. He wanted to go too, he didn’t want to be left behind. To be with her and Linyan, his family.

 

He wanted to speak as tears welled up but his voice didn’t work, but she understood him. Taking his hand and holding it to her cheek.

 

“I’m sorry.” She told him, her own tears flowing. “It’s not your time yet, and I’m glad, it means I managed to save one of you in the end.”

 

She held him as he cried.

 

“I know you’re hurt and hurting.” Her voice tickled his ears again, “and that you’ve suffered for a long, long time. But you're alive and you survived. It’s time for me to be with your brother.”

 

She started fading, being less and less there.

 

“My brave, strong little Luniao.” Her voice echoed around them as he desperately tried to hold on to her. “I’m glad I was able to say goodbye.”

 

Her ghostly form dissolved into a cascade of sparkles, drifting away to the sky. He tried to reach them before they flew away, but it was too late. She was gone. The world spun around him, making him dizzy, it suddenly felt like he was hit in the chest.

 

The feeling caused him to close his eyes. He felt sick. Something was in front of his face. He pulled it away and let out his stomach contents.

 

He dazedly opened his eyes to see a different yet similar room he’d grown used too.

 

He was tried and let the people do whatever they wanted until he was left alone back in the room they’ve kept him in.

 

He was tired, so he slept, the feather giving to him still in his hand.

 

Notes:

Look, Xiao's name (one I picked, not his actual real name since that's unknown)

I'll admit I wasn't too sure about the bit with his mom for the chapter but it felt right so I allowed myself to write it.

So explaining the name and family,

Xiao has a mother (unnamed) and a little brother (Linyan)

For the names it's quite simple, I looked up Chinese names meaning 'bird' and found "Luniao meaning more or less 'Jade Bird' and Linyan 'Beautiful jade/gem Bird." I picked these names do to Xiao's Jade motifs.

As always let me know what you think, I always appreciate feed back

Chapter 20

Notes:

New chapter for you all.

It got delayed just a bit to minor writer's block and me trying to finish fully exploring an entire nation before moving onto the next one.

But here we go.

Guizhong watched as Rambler waved a hand in front of the Adeptus’ face, his golden eyes blankly and sluggishly following it, while Mountain Shaper stretched the boy’s wings to assess if there’ll be any lasting damage.

 

The sight of the wings were admittedly a shock, both to their existence and condition. She supposed it was progress that he’s shown them but it came with a price.

 

The Adeptus was sitting nicely on the bed while they moved him and checked him over. He barely reacted to anything. Barely flinching or blinking when a hand got too close to his face or when his wings were moved around.

 

The only signs of discomfort was his pale face flushed with fever, his breathing raspy and short, and the sweat and dripped of his chin. Fever chills had his body shaking every so often, being the only movement he did outside of Rambler’s promptings.

 

It was strange, seeing him so docile, given how hostile and defensive he’s been since they took him in.

 

When she got word of the incident, she informed Moon Carver to direct the soldier escorting Rukkhadevata’s proxy straight to the Teapot and rushed over.

 

The Goddess only found out the day after the event happened, after inquiring where Morax was and why her fellow God needed a few days off after being informed he was sick.

 

The healer let out a big sigh once she was done examining the Adeptus.

 

“Well, some good news and bad news.” Rambler addressed her. “What do you want to start with?”

 

“I suppose the bad.” Guizhong answered, “I want to leave on a, hopefully, good note.”

 

“Very well then.” Rambler turned her attention to the Goddess. “He’s in a catatonic state, meaning he’s reactive to outside stimulation but mentally he's not all there, how aware he is at the moment is undetermined and he might not remember anything that happens when he… ‘wakes up’, so to say.”

 

Rambler paused as if to let her process before continuing.

 

“Given he almost died yesterday, it’s not unusual, but I can’t tell you when, or if, he’ll come out of that state. The one good thing about it is that he’ll be less fussy about eating and medication.”

 

“And the good?”

 

“His Adeptal energy, while still low, has stabilized just a bit.” Rambler informed her. “If it stays that way then we should see some significant improvements from him, physically, once it starts replenishing itself.”

 

“And what of his wing?” Guizhong directed the question to Mountain Shaper. “Will they heal correctly? Or…?”

 

“It’s tough to say.” The crane told her, peaking out from behind the damaged wings. “The muscles are weak, and underdeveloped, the only thing he’d be capable of doing with them is simply holding them up. The broken bones look like they should heal just fine, with only one spot that’s concerning, but at the moment it’s looking okay.”

 

The crane gestured to the area with the splint wrapped tightly in place along a wing, the area of concern, before he pulling on the less bandaged wings and pointed to the grey feathers near the base.

 

“These are down feathers, meaning he’s between a fledgling and a juvenile.” Mountain Shaper explained, rubbing his chin, “Roughly putting him around 1100 to 1300 years old as an Illuminated Beast.”

 

“So young…”

 

“Based on how underdeveloped the muscles are, he was either learning to fly, or was about to learn to fly before he ended up in his situation.” Mountain Shaper carefully folded the wing back. “With proper exercise and physical therapy, there’s a chance to have the muscles develop correctly and he could possibly regain flight.”

 

“So you’re saying that his wings will be fine?” Guizhong asked, “That he’ll potentially be able to fly?”

 

“In a sense, we’ll need to keep an eye on how they start healing and he’ll need a lot of nutrients, care, and time to help develop the muscle and strength required for flight correctly.”

 

“Can he feel everything on his wings?” Rambler’s question butted in, “I was concerned about how tight the wires were wrapped around them.”

 

The amber crane ran a finger softly along one of the intact feathers at the tip of his wings. Each wing, thankfully, was responding to the messing of the feathers, lightly twitching away from the offending hand.

 

“It looks like he has full sensation.” Mountain Shaper announced, smoothing some of the feathers in the mangled wings, “No doubt he’s in a lot of pain from these injuries, there are a lot of nerves in our wings.” 

 

“Good to know, I’ll adjust his painkillers accordingly.” Rambler started rewrapping and securing the wings.

 

The Adeptus just sat there, blankly staring at his hands where she recognized a feather from both Cloud Retainer and Mountain Shaper clenched in his hands.

 

“What’s with the feathers?” Guizhong questioned quietly to the crane, “Do they hold some meaning for birds?”

 

“Normally no.” Mountain Shaper moved to the front of the Adeptus, wings out for the boy to see. “But it can be taken as a sign of trust or safety to preen loose feathers in front of others willingly.”

 

Mountain Shaper ran his fingers through his feathers, pulling another brown and red feather, offering it to the younger bird. The Adeptus sluggishly blinked and reached out for it, adding it to his collection.

 

“Retainer and I are using it to establish trust and letting him know he’s in a safe area.” Mountain Shaper combed his finger through the tangles of the Adeptus’ sweat-slicked black hair. “We should give him a bath soon, like a full bath, being clean will help him.”

 

“I’ll arrange that soon, I want his fever to go down a little first.” Rambler addressed the comment. “I’ll need to make a medicinal soak that will help with his injuries.”

 

The healer held a cup of water for the Adeptus, having him drink something before positioning him to a laying down position.

 

“Lady Guizhong!” A voice called from the hall. “I’ve brought the Dendro God's… representative here, like you requested.”

 

“Excuse me for a moment.”

 

Guizhong left the room to meet with the soldier and paused. At first she only saw the other Adeptus standing there before something by his legs moved forwards.

 

A cabbage?

 

“Greetings!” Said the little golden plant-like creature. “Aranimba is Aranimba, Queen Aranyani sends the blessing of Dendro along.”

 

The little thing floated up a bit. 

 

“Aranimba was told you needed help!”

Notes:

As celebrations for finally 100% the entirety of Sumeru, and I mean 100% it, there is literally nothing left to find, here's an Aranara that when they showed up I went "must add to the story." and now here they are.

Anyways, I hope you enjoyed and again Sorry for the short chapter.

all feedback is appreciated

I'm off to Fontine

Chapter 21

Notes:

put an Aranara into the story I say, it'll be fun, I say.

I was wrong, those plant creatures all speak in different ways and Aranimba's dialogue is based on what I could read from a picture I took so I could remember its name.

Anyways, time for made up lore and bullshitted information.

“So, Aranimba.” Guizhong sat at Rambler’s kitchen table. “What can you tell me about the flower I inquired about?”

 

The two of them moved to the table after dismissing the Adeptus Soldier. She took a seat and the Aranara… Stood? Sat? Hovered over his seat.

 

“It is called a Viparyas.” Aranimba told her. “They are grown in Mahavanaranapna and are cared for by us Aranara.”

 

“Mahavanaranapna?”

 

“Yes, the dream version of Vanarana.” Aranimba told her, “Very few beings outside Aranara can access it.”

 

Dream version?

 

“And how would these flowers get to Liyue?” Guizhong asked. “Would someone be able to cultivate these flowers here?”

 

The Aranara said nothing, looking down. Was it thinking of an answer?

 

“No, there is not a Mahavanaranapna here.” Aranimba told her “They can only grow in Mahavanaranapna.”

 

“And why is that?

 

“These flowers bloom from dreams.” Aranimba informed her, “They can only grow in the Realm of Dreams, which does not exist here.”

 

“Flowers… bloomed from dreams…?”

 

“They are capable of being brought to the waking realms by Aranara and Nara but that is the only way they would get here.”

 

“I see, and what are Naras?”

 

The pieces are starting to fit together but some were still missing, lacking a connection.

 

“Naras are Naras, the ones that you are taking the form of now.”

 

“And how are Naras able to access the Realm of Dreams?”

 

“Little Nara can access it when they dream, sometime they can pass over but we always bring them back.” Aranimba explains, “Bigger Nara can’t normally, it requires trust, permission, and shown the way in from an Aranara to be able to come and go. It’s rare for Big Nara to enter.”

 

“I see…”

 

Guizhong went over the information. By the sound of it, it would be very hard to acquire the flower, but more than one? So how did Shǎndiàn get them? Did she have someone to provide them for her? Then… Who had given them to Shǎndiàn?

 

“Aranimba, what would happen if someone ate one?”

 

The Aranara, who had been floating calmly over the chair, suddenly jump up. Even though its face remained unchanged the shock it exuded filled the air.

 

“Bad!”

 

“Bad?”

 

“Yes bad!” Aranimba repeated, waving its stubby arms around. “Dreams contain memories and knowledge, Viparyas are grown from dreams, holds them within.”

 

“Even if the person is known for being able to eat dreams?”

 

“Yes, bad for everyone.” Aranimba said, “even Dream-eaters.”

 

“But what would happen if they were to eat one?”

 

“Lots! The memories and dreams leak out.” Aranimba fluttered about anxiously, “Confuses the mind and taints the body. Life energy will swell then shrivel and drain away.”

 

The Aranara seemed to have calmed itself down a bit, settling back onto the chair.

 

“We don’t know how many he’s eaten.” Guizhong informed the plant creature. “But he was forced to eat them by a bad… Nara, I want to know if he’ll be able to recover from it.”

 

Aranimba’s head declined downwards again as he listened.

 

“Aranimba does not know.” Aranimba admits, a sad tone to their voice. “No memory of this happening before, will need to see the Nara Paśu.”

 

“Nara Paśu?”

 

“A Paśu that takes Nara form.”

 

“Ah right.” Guizhong understood. “Right this way then.”

 

Guizhong leads the little creature down the hall to the Adeptus’ room. When Guizhong returned to the room, plant creature in tow, very little had changed.

 

Rambler was still rewrapping new bandages around the various injuries on the Adeptus, rubbing ointment and salve to them to help fight the infections.

 

Mountain Shaper however had changed into his full beast form and was currently nestled up against the Adeptus’ arms. Beak carding through his own russet feathers. If the Adeptus wasn’t in such a state she’d call it cute.

 

Guizhong cleared her throat, gaining the attention of the two Adepti.

 

“Rambler, meet Aranimba.” Guizhong introduced the plant to the healer. “They’re the representative of the Dendro Archon.”

 

“An Aranara, I see.” Rambler notes, as Mountain Shaper took his leave, “How can we help you?”

 

“He wanted to see him.” Guizhong said when the Aranara said nothing and made its way over to the Adeptus. “They’re concerned about the flowers he ate.”

 

“Hmm, then you might want to see this.”

 

Rambler loosened the bandages around the boy’s torso, revealing the angry infected cuts and fading bruises decorating it.

 

However that’s not what the healer was showing them.

 

Against his sickly pale skin, branching out like lightning from where his heart rests, were dark purple lines.

 

“It showed up last night.” Rambler explained, “It’s flowing from the heart and into his blood system. Is the flower poisonous?”

 

“In a way” Guizhong told her as they watched the Aranara hover nearby. “But not like a poison would normally act.”

 

“Nara Paśu is fighting!” Aranimba spoke up from where he hovered over the bedside. “His body is trying to expel the bad!”

 

“That’s a good thing, right?” Guizhong asked, some hope sparking in her. “Will he be able to recover?”

 

“Yes, he is strong, and very resilient against the effects.” Aranimba nodded along with his words. “But Aranimba will need to help his body expel it.”

 

Before they could question him about the process the Aranara started glowing green. A similar glow covered the Adeptus.

 

The Adeptus wiggled in discomfort before a whine escaped him. Rambler was quick and held a bucket to his face as watery purple vomit spilled out.

 

Guizhong watched as tears started to form in the Adeptus’ eyes as he let out another wave of purple.

 

Rambler rubbed his shoulders as the Adeptus took deep gulping breaths, tension up and letting out another whine. The glow from Aranimba seemed harsher for a second before the boy coughed up a congealed glob of purple guck in the next wave of vomit.

 

The glow disappeared from the room. The purple lines on the Adeptus were still present but they faded a lot from whatever Aranimba did. Rambler mess giving the Adeptus words of comfort, trying to calm him back into rest, re-fixing the bandages as she did.

 

“What did you do?” Guizhong asked the plant creature? “Will he be alright?”

 

“Aranimba used memories to force the Viparyas out of the Nara Paśu’s body.” Aranimba told her, “I could not purge all of it but in time recovery is possible.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

Guizhong didn’t understand all of that except the recovery part. But it seemed like they won’t have to worry too much about the strange flowers anymore.

 

“I will leave behind Padisarah and Mourning flowers and seeds to help fight what remains.” Aranimba informed her, “Do not let him eat anymore if you find them again, bad will come back and recovery might become impossible.”

 

It pulled two small bags from who knows where and placed them in Guizhong’s hands. They were beautiful flowers, one being a lovely purple and the other a pale red.

 

“Padisarah and Mourning flowers?” Guizhong didn’t like the name of the latter, but trusted its advice, “Are they hard to grow?

 

“Padisarah yes, very picky, but I believe you’re capable of meeting its needs.” Aranimba told her, “Mourning flowers are happy anywhere as long as they can just be. They will be happy to grow for you.”

 

“I see, thank you.” Guizhong said, “Can they be mixed with other plants outside of those two? We have a number of plant-based medicines here and we wouldn’t want to have a bad reaction.”

 

“Yes!” Aranimba hovered excitedly. “Both do well with others, no matter what! They are safe.”

 

Guizhong set the flower bags on a nearby table for Rambler to take care of.

 

“Aranimba requests that he see the Viparyas you found.” The Aranara looked up at her. “Want to hear its story.”

Notes:

Padisarahs because they replace Viparyas in the real world in Genshin, Mourning Flowers because of its lore saying they are banned from the 'barred from Enternal Samsara' which in Genshin is connected to dreams and whatnot.

as for the 'Nara Pasu' thing, Aranara language is based on sanskrit, Pasu is one of the words meaning 'Beast'; "Nara Pasu" =' human beast"

Anyways, here's the next chapter, hope you enjoy.

If I wanted to do silly little Omakes and side bits, would you guys want me to add them to the story here and just change the chapter name? or put them in the story through the series linking as stand lone snippets?"

Chapter 22

Notes:

Bath time.

Also time to give Bosacius some screen time. I gave him a lot, because this might be the longest chapter in the story

I hope you enjoy.

Bosacius was getting annoyed.

 

Every conversation with his siblings for the past few weeks has been about nothing but the Demon.

 

He felt validated when Indarias held similar suspicions against the Demon during the initial meeting a while ago, but now something’s changed since then. Whenever Bon goes to help Rambler the Pyro Yaksha is pestering their sister about how he’s doing, if there’s been changes, if he’s eating well.

 

Menogias, who typically stays back from all drama and gossip always seemed to want the answers as well, despite never voicing the questions himself.

 

Somehow the Demon had them wrap around his finger and Bosacius was fed up with it.

 

The answer always changed. The Demon was doing good one day, bad the next. Would eat a little or not at all. Was looking better, then not.

 

It was highly inconsistent for someone under Rambler’s care.

 

It made his suspicions grow, but also his doubts.

 

Bosacius knew he could be stubborn at times, but if he’s proven wrong he’ll own up to it the best he can. His siblings were smart, he trusts their judgments and advice even if he doesn’t approve of every single choice or action.

 

He trusts Morax, Guizhong, and Rambler, but he’s not ignorant enough to believe that Gods aren’t infallible.

 

That’s why, today, he’s marching to the Healer’s teapot to see the Demon with his own eyes. To make his own judgments about it. Because his sibling are right about one thing, he hasn’t seen the Demon in person before.

 

When he entered he found the healer tending to a small boy, he looked terrible and skinny and sick. Based on the wings on his back, the kid was also an Adeptus.

 

His annoyance disappeared almost immediately. It’s never a good idea to be in a bad mood around children, they’re more sensitive then people think to the emotions around them, especially Adeptal children.

 

Bosacius hadn’t heard anything about finding a hurt child, probably a new development that hasn’t been relayed yet. He’ll probably hear more about it at the next meeting.

 

He took a moment to take in more of the scene. 

 

Rambler was giving the boy a haircut. Clumps of long matted black hair fell to the floor with each snip. The boy was tense, eyes closed, probably scared of the shears.

 

Lady Cloud Retainer was aiding Rambler by handling the wings. Unraveling layer on layer of bandages, revealing red scabs and bare patches where feathers should be.

 

Did he get into a fight with an animal?

 

The boy had no clothes on other than a pair of shorts to protect his modesty, more bandages acted as covering for the rest of his body.

 

He could only imagine what hid below them.

 

Another victim of this long war, not the first and definitely not the last. Bosacius was good with kids, most seem to like him, he’ll offer some time to help him adjust to the Assembly and find some friends.

 

“What can I do for you Bosacius?” Rambler asked, not looking at him. “We’re getting our guest here ready for a bath.”

 

“I came to see the Demon myself.” Bosacius admits with no hesitation. “But that can wait if you would like some help with the Little bird here.”

 

Rambler looked up, confusion on her face. Glancing between the boy and him. Cloud Retainer let out a short chuckle.

 

“Let him figure it out.” The crane said.

 

Did he say something wrong? Was it the silly name he called the boy? Now he was feeling like he missed something.

 

“Yes, you can help.” Rambler finally answered, shaking her head like she was dismissing a thought. “When we get his wings wet they’ll get heavy, we can use the muscles to help get him out.”

 

Bosacius stepped closer to await instructions, but as he did, the boy let out a small whine and tried to suddenly scramble away.

 

Bosacius paused his advance as the boy nearly cut his face on the shear in Rambler’s hands. He didn’t make it very far from the stool he was sitting in as Cloud Retainer had grabbed his shoulders.

 

“Easy there.” The older bird said. “Bosacius won’t hurt you.”

 

Bosacius watched as she handed a feather from the table to the boy, calming him down a bit.

 

“Hmm.” Rambler paused the haircut, thinking about something and probably to let the boy resettle himself. “That was the most reactive we’ve seen him in a while…” Her eyes darted to his before loving back to the boy’s. “Right. Yes. I forgot.” The healer mumbled to herself. “Bosacius, can you dampen your Electro energy while your here, he has a bad history with the element.”

 

“Certainly!”

 

Bosacius quickly dampened his energy as much as he could maintain subconsciously. The boy seemed to relax some more and Rambler went back to cutting his hair.

 

“There.” Rambler finished up shortly after. “Not too long, not too short, perfect to style later once he’s clean.”

 

The black hair was now between his neck and shoulder as opposed to his low back where it hung when the general first entered.

 

“Now let’s head to the bath.”

 

Bosacius watched the healer heft the boy up into her arms and start carrying him down the hall, Cloud Retainer in suit. Her strength was not a surprise but couldn’t the kid walk on his own?

 

Bosacius followed the two ladies, observing the boy again.

 

He was limp in Rambler’s arms. His yellow eyes half lidded as his head resting on the healer’s shoulder. They were dull and vacant. A trait  he’s seen a lot in old soldiers and people who’ve lost too much.

 

A trait that shouldn’t be on a kid at all.

 

Bosacius moved ahead of the group to hold the door open, leading them into the bath lounge. It wasn’t exactly where the baths were, but a room connecting to the baths. It housed some medical supplies and an exam cot so Rambler could tend to patients immediately afterwards.

 

Rambler set the boy into another stool. Here she pulled the bandages covering the rest of him off, revealing a long, deep gash on his chest.

 

The kid’s back was worse with a myriad of half healed cuts and a matching long gash. It looked as if he was almost ran through with… a… spear.

 

Oh.

 

Bosacius watched, thinking, as Rambler convinced the boy to let go of the feather Cloud Retainer gave him and set it on the table in the room.

 

“Bosacius.” Rambler addressed him, pulling him from his thoughts. “Can you carry him into the water? I don’t want to drop him if he has a reaction to getting wet.”

 

“Of course.”

 

The general used two of his arms to pick up the kid, and his other two to support him. He followed the two other Adepti into the bath room where two big baths were housed.

 

One was for cleaning and rinsing and the other was for soaking and relaxing.

 

Bosacius followed Rambler’s lead and stepped into the warm waters of the first bath, not caring about getting his clothes soaked.

 

The first few steps went well, even when the boy’s feet and wingtips got submerged. When Bosacius took a few more steps, submerged most of the boy’s lower half and half of his wing did a reaction occur.

 

The boy tensed, suddenly hugging Bosacius around the neck as his wings haphazardly flapped against the water, splashing it around a bit.

 

“It’s alright.” Bosacius offered some calming words. “It’s just water, you can hold onto me if you need to. I won't let go.”

 

It didn’t help the boy relax but his wings did stop slapping the water. Soon they were completely in the water.

 

“Come over here.” Rambler beckons him over to a water spout. “We’ll start with his hair.”

 

Bosacius dragged himself and the boy over. He repositioned his four hands so he could support the boy steadily as he was leaned backward under the water stream.

 

Immediately the water turned dark from the built up grim, flowing down the nearby drain way that keeps the water clean.

 

The boy kept a weak grasp on Bosacius’ shoulders. Seemingly too uncomfortable with the water so close to the face. 

 

Thankfully Rambler and Cloud Retainer worked quickly seeing how tense he was. Soaping up the dirty locks and rinsing them until the water ran clear. It took only a few moments before the kid was allowed to return to clinging Bosacius. Bosacius might’ve been chocked if it wasn’t for the lack of strength in the kid’s arms.

 

The wings were next it seems, as Cloud retainer instructed Rambker how to clean them. Oil, dirt, and some loose feathers lifted off and floated away in the water.

 

The ladies were being extremely careful about the injuries, taking soft rags and scrubbing gently until they came back clean. Some blood welled up from a few injuries. Expected from the type of injuries but not overly concerned as the water quickly washed away the red.

 

Overall he was looking much, much better when they moved onto cleaning the rest of him. 

 

His hair, while wet, looked brighter and it looked like some color was hiding below the grim as Bosacius noted a green tint to some of his hair. His wings, which were still dulled, also seemed more colorful.

 

Despite not being that dirty looking when Bosacius first saw him, the rags still came up from his skin dirty from missed grime and old dried blood.

 

No doubt he’ll definitely be feeling better once they were done here.

 

“Alright.” Rambler said, tossing the used rag she was using to the side. “We can move him to the other pool now, he’s as clean as we can get him.”

 

Rambler ushered Bosacius out of the first bath and into the other one. This one smelling of herbs and medicine. When Bosacius went to set the boy on the bath seat, he noticed that he was limp. Breathing softly into Bosacius’ neck.

 

At some point he’d fallen asleep while they were cleaning him.

 

Since he was still clinging to Bosacius, and him not wanting to wake up the sleeping bird, he got into the medical bath as well.

 

“I’ll come back in half an hour if you don’t mind staying with him.” Rambler said to him, as she and Cloud Retainer rung out their wet clothes. “Retainer and I are going to change and get new clothes for him and yourself.”

 

“I don’t mind.” Bosacius waved them off with one hand. “I’ll be fine.”

 

They left, leaving Bosacius alone with the sleeping Demon.

 

He went back to thinking. How could this child be the cause of such great damage and carnage. What everyone had been saying seems to make a lot of sense now.

 

Bosacius leaned his head back against the edge of the tub, maintaining his hold on the boy. He has a lot to think about now, but he could, at the very least, release his trepidation about the Demon. Looking down at the kid in his arms. He could see what his siblings saw, a traumatized and hurt child that needed a safe place.

 

It helps that the kid was adorable.

Notes:

Haha, did I get yay with that last bit?

This isn't exactly how I wanted to end this chapter but it works and I like it. I originally was going to have Bosacius make his realization at the end but putting it subtly in the middle felt better.

Hope you liked it, next chapter might be delayed due to my brain wanting to write a Wriothesley story involving some rift hounds so we'll see what happens.

As always I appreciate feedback of all kinds so feel free to drop a comment and a kudo.

see you next chapter.

Chapter 23

Notes:

And a new chapter for you all. It was in fact delayed but not due to the Wriothesley story I'm now writing but because I had to help my parents out with something and ended up away from my computer a lot longer than planned.

Anyways I hope you enjoy.

A bit on the long side too.

Thunder roared overhead. In a distant place in a dark chamber stood two figures, silhouetted by low light and the occasional flash of lightning.

 

“So Morax has possession of my pet does he?” A deep voice asked. “I see Shǎndiàn failed to achieve what I asked of her.”

 

“She got some of it done.” Another voice responded. “But she moved too quickly and too brashly and drew Morax’s gaze to her, so it was all for not.”

 

“A setback, certainly.” The deep voice said, “but not all is lost for the plan, after all, I still hold the true power over it.”

 

The deep voice silhouette let out a deep chuckle that echoed around the room. 

 

“Fixing Shǎndiàn’s mistakes will take some time, go and keep an eye on Morax’s and Osial’s movements.”

 

One of the silhouettes vanished in a flash, leaving the other to stare out at the storm.

 

“Don’t think that just because you’re under Morax’s eyes that you can get away from me.” The voice said to himself…? “Little Luniao.”

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

He awoke with a start and covered in cold sweat.

 

He blinked as he laid on the bed. The bed he’s been in for… awhile? Now.

 

He was unsure, it could have been a dream, it could have been real.

 

His head hurts a lot.

 

He sat up and looked around the room. It’s the same room he’s been in this entire time and he’s alone.

 

He felt numb and confused and conflicted, like waking up from a long and strange dream.

 

But it wasn’t a dream, everything that happened was real.

 

…Right?

 

It certainly felt real despite being in a dream like trance, but he dreamed during it as well. You can’t dream in a dream.

 

Thinking about it made his aching head pound harder, causing him to start getting a bit dizzy.

 

A knock at the door had him alert and tense. It was the fierce-eye healer who’s been the new constant in his life. He watched as she walked in carrying the usual tray of bandages, medicine, and food he’s gotten used to seeing while he was… out of it.

 

“Good morning.” She said to him, not aware that he was ‘awake’ again. “I see you’re sitting up on your own today.”

 

He watched as she set the tray in its usual spot on the side table.

 

“How are you feeling today?” She asked even though she knows he’s never answered her. “Let’s get these bandages changed.”

 

He flinched when she reached out to grab his arm and instinctively let out a growl, causing her to pause. She looked shocked but retracted her hand and moved a bit back, but also more into his line of sight.

 

“Welcome back.” She smiled at him. “May I change your bandages today?”

 

She was… asking him?

 

He looked down at his bandaged cover body before holding his arm out for her. She hasn’t hurt him yet, even when he was out of it, he believes she truly is just here to heal him.

 

But for what? Why?

 

“It’s nice to see that you are awake, to say the least.” She talked to him. “Are you feeling tired or ill at all?”

 

He still didn’t answer, she didn’t look too perturbed about his lack of response and just kept unwrapping the bandages, revealing the angry, yet scaring lacerations and fading bruises.

 

He was… numb he thinks. He could feel the pain, yet it seemed faded, distant, less than usual but still there. It was… unnerving.

 

When she did his wings he pulled the one she was about to touch away. Not wanting them to be touched.

 

“Do you want me to get Cloud Retainer?” The healer asked, as if he knew who that was. “The other bird Adeptus from before to do your wings?”

 

He thought about it. She was still giving him the choice to choose. He looked down at his hands. A feather from… Cloud Retainer? Was in his hand. He’d forgotten about it.

 

He rubbed his thumb against it, remembering it being given to him. He didn’t look back up but stretched his wing back out. It was painful as the muscles stench, but he allowed her to continue.

 

“Thank you.”

 

He trembled as she worked in his wing. It hurt in some places, her hands were gentle but his wing would twitch at every new touch, every shift of his feathers, or applications of ointment.

 

He kept his head down, focusing as much as he could in the pale feather in his hand. That is until her fingers brushed against the base of his other wing.

 

It sends sparks of fire running down his wing and back. He let out a strangled growl and tried to pull the wing away, but it didn’t listen to him and only caused more pain to flare up.

 

He felt the wing hang from his shoulder limply, each attempt to move it sent more waves of pain through him, causing him to start clawing at it, trying to dig out the pain but it wasn’t working, it only caused him more pain.

 

A pair of hands grabbed his, stopping him from causing more damage.

 

“Calm down.” It was the healer, she looked worried. “Don’t do that, please, it will only make it worse.”

 

He growled at her but allowed his hands to be stilled.

 

“I’ll be right back.” She told him, concern lacing her voice, “Please don’t claw at it while I’m gone. Drink this, it’ll numb the pain.”

 

She pressed a cup into his hand before leaving him alone.

 

He stared at it as his hand trembled. He didn’t trust it but he didn’t care at this point. He drank it anyways. He didn’t care enough to worry about it anymore.

 

And…

 

He was… vaguely disappointed.

 

The pain only lessened a bit after a few moments. Enough to allow him to bear it till the healer got back.

 

After another moment she was back with another tray, this one holding shiny silver metal tools. His growling picked up at the sight of them but he still allowed her to get close. The tray was placed on the other table and she took the cup away from him.

 

“I’m going to check out what can be causing your discomfort.” She told gently, while carefully moving behind him. “I won’t touch the wing unless I absolutely have to alright?”

 

He closed his eyes preparing for more flashes of pain but none happened. When he turned his head to watch her out of the corner of his eye she was simply holding her hands around the base of his wing. They were glowing but he felt nothing from them.

 

He shifted to watch her some more but in doing so causing his hurting wing to move. A choked growl of pain escaped him.

 

“Easy there, I think I see the problem.” The healer placed a hand on his shoulder and handed him another cup, “Take more of this, I didn’t realize you were still in pain.”

 

He downed it, with a grimace.

 

“I was worried it might’ve been the broken bone in your wing not healing.” The healer informed him. “But it looked like I simply missed a piece of wiring that must’ve broken off.”

 

The pain was finally numbing after a few moments. It was… nice… he watched as she picked up a sharp tool and a pronged tool and sat down next to his wing.

 

“This will hurt but try not to move.” She told him. “I’ll try to be quick about it but let me know if it gets to be too much, alright?”

 

He didn’t respond, just simply closed his eyes as he felt the sharp tool slice through his skin. He grunted as new pain ran down his nerves but did his best to not move. 

 

After what seemed like an eternity of pain and the feeling of metal digging around ceased and something soft was pressed against where she had been working on.

 

But no waves of agonizing fire raced down his wing.

 

“How does that feel?” The healer’s voice asked. “Any other spots of pain or discomfort?”

 

He carefully shifted his wing and felt nothing. For the first time since waking up, he took a moment to check his body.

 

There was pain, but unlike before, unlike how it was usually beside those few moments, it was less. Even before she had given him the… drink, there was only remnants of the pain he’d endured under his old Master.

 

He met her eye and gave the healer a small nod in which she smiled at before resuming to change the rest of his remaining bandages. Which he let her.

 

Maybe…

 

Maybe he can hope again after all.

Notes:

Oh boy, hope you liked it. Heheh

I hope I got at least some of you at the edge of your seat at some point during this story.

As always let me know what you think and how you liked it, I really enjoy the feedback.

See you next time.

Chapter 24

Notes:

Alright here's the new chapter, I hope you like it.

I really had no plans for this chapter until after I started writing it but I really like the ending.

Onto the the story.

Morax frowned as he examined the war table before him. Looking at each carefully placed marker and pin that showed positions of his men and what they know if their enemies movements.

 

Very few gods remain in Liyue now. Not after thousands of years of fighting. Those who were strong rose to power like himself and Osial. Those who were weaker formed alliances or deals with other, strong gods in order to survive like the assembly. Some chose to stay out of the fighting, releasing this hold in land on power to strong being in hopes of being spared.

 

Several gods were still fighting or surviving, but Morax's biggest opposition right now were Osial and Chi.

 

But both have been strangely quiet lately.

 

The last move Osial made was to claim more land from Havria, who was refusing to fight but was quickly losing ground due to her pacifism.

 

He should extend an offer to her about joining the Assembly, he’ll have to run it by Guizhong and Marchosius later. It would offer her protection and since their two lands border each other they wouldn’t have to lose the land they’re on already.

 

Chi however hasn’t made a move other than fending off attacks from Osial and keeping his people from leaving his lands.

 

He’ll have to send Bonanus and her troops out to scout the borders, see if they’re missing something.

 

Morax let out a heavy sigh and pushed himself away from the table. No point in over thinking the ‘what-ifs’.

 

He decided to go check on the little Adeptus, it’s been awhile since he’s checked up on the little bird and figured an update was due.

 

He also needs to inquire about a name. They can’t keep calling him ‘the Adeptus’ and if he can’t give it either verbally or written then they’ll have to find something to call him.

 

Upon entering the teapot he was pleasantly surprised to see the Adeptus sitting in Rambler’s garden. His golden eyes following an imitation of a crystalfly.

 

Said healer was sitting nearby at a table she pulled out and was watching him as she and Cloud Retainer discussed things.

 

It was an endearing sight seeing something other than pain, fear, and distrust in the little Adpetus’ eye. The curiosity could be seen from where Morax was standing as the child clapped his hands around the fluttering elemental being, causing its wings to disappear, leaving behind its core.

 

Morax chuckled at the startled look the Adeptus gave the core resting in his hand.

 

That was a mistake.

 

The Adeptus heard him and was startled, becoming tense and defensive. He stared Morax down and growled.

 

Morax froze, not out of intimidation, but out of respect for the Adetpus’ boundaries.

 

The god took the moment to take in the condition of the Adeptus.

 

He looked a lot better then when they found him in that room. His skin was still pale but not nearly as translucent as it’s been, the only color being the flush from his ever persistent fever. While he was no longer skin and bone, he was still alarmingly skinny.

 

Seeing him out and active was a good sign of his healing progress.

 

They stood in the stalemate for a good moment. Golden eyes staring down his cor lapis ones. Morax’s had no idea what the Adeptus was doing, if he was looking for something on Morax or remaining alert against a potential ‘threat’.

 

He’ll need to do something to facilitate some trust between them during his stay within the Assembly.

 

Morax places a hand to his chin to think. He didn’t know how Rambler established a form of trust but Cloud Retainer used feathers and their shared connection as bird Adepti to gain his trust.

 

Hmm feathers.

 

Morax held up his arm, shifting it to his more beastly side causing gold and brown scales to cover it and claws to form. He saw the Adetpus flinch backward, scooting further away from the god, but Morax paid him no mind and focused.

 

He didn’t have feathers but he could shed scales. He raked his other hand down his arm, nails catching the back of the scales till he found a loose one. He pulled it off with minimal pain.

 

“For you.”

 

Morax took only a single step closer before settling on his knee, holding the brown scale out to the Adeptus.

 

He watched the Adeptus’ face change to confusion but his eyes wavered between fear, confusion, distrust, and curiosity.

 

Still growling whenever Morax so much as shifted, the little Adeptus inches forward. Making his distrust of the god known, he got closer to look at the scale Morax held out in his hand.

 

His finger poked it before darting back to him, only causing the scale to slide a bit across Morax’s bigger palm.

 

The Adeptus checked Morax’s reaction but he just maintained his neutral face.

 

When nothing happened the scale was picked up and the Adeptus backed up, examining it.

 

Unfortunately it did not have the same effect as Retainer giving him feathers. The Adeptus kept his distance from Morax, still growling at the god.

 

Morax gave a breath of defeat and stood up. The Adeptus scrambled away, binding in a bush with only his eyes peering out from between the foliage being seen… and his wings sticking out the top but Morax was fine with letting the Adeptus believe he was fully hidden.

 

“I see he’s doing better.” Morax said, turning to the two ladies at the table, taking a seat as well. “Do we have a name for him yet?”

 

“Unfortunately not.” Rambler took a sip of her tea, “He hasn’t spoken a word since coming here, I’m not sure he even can.”

 

“Any particular cause?”

 

“Trauma, mostly.” Rambler explains, pouring a cup for Morax. “I’m hoping he’ll overcome it in time but we know very little about what he’s been through.”

 

“Psychological or physical?”

 

“A bit of both.” Rambler told him. “Remember the muzzle?”

 

Morax gave her a nod, remembering quite clearly the horrid thing. He thought he heard the bushes rustling behind him but figured it was due to the artificial breeze blowing through the teapot.

 

“We don’t know if its shock enchantments had other requirements for it to get set off.” Rambler continues, “There’s some residual scarring in his mouth from it, so it’s probably also affected his throat.”

 

“You’re fools.” Retainer said, not sparing them a glance and setting her cup down with a small clank. “Just because he can’t speak right now doesn’t mean he isn’t communicating with us.”

 

Morax and Rambler shared a confused look.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Body language. Each movement he makes is his way of speaking to us. After all…” Retainer’s eye gained a hint of mischievous glint to them. “Actions speak louder than words.”

 

Something pulled hard on his ponytail, yanking his head back and sending spikes of pain through his scalp.

 

He let out a low growl himself and turned to see the Adeptus holding his hair in his hands, growling back.

 

Morax shook his head as the pain quickly faded and turned back to the other Adepti.

 

“And what does this mean?” Morax asked bracing for another yank, only instead to have the Adeptus start trying to push him out of his chair. “That I am welcomed here?”

 

“Not quite.” Retainer said, a soft chuckle escaping her as the Adeptus backed up releasing his hair. “He’s simply testing your boundaries and patience, many young birds do it when faced with older and stronger birds.”

 

Before Morax could ask more about it, something small and hard slammed into him. It wasn’t a particularly hard hit but it was enough for him to be knocked from his seat, teetering to the ground with a thud.

 

The feeling of shock and surprise settled over him as he watched the Adeptus stumble away to hide behind the ladies, peeking his head out from behind them to watch his reaction.

 

Morax dropped his head back onto the ground with a groan as the two Adepti ladies started chuckling at him.

 

At least it was a start to gaining his trust.

 

He hopes.

Notes:

Hoped you like it.

Let me know what you think because I was trying to research how birds test boundaries or try to assert dominance but just went with turning Xiao into a minor annoyance. I think that most animal young and adolescences do this in the animal kingdom anyways so I just went with it.

All feedback is good feedback.

See you next chapter

Chapter 25

Notes:

Sorry for the delays, I've had a busy week and all.

Here's the chapter, I hope you enjoy.

Someone makes a reappearances

Rambler frowned as she emptied and cleans a bowl.

 

He wasn’t eating again.

 

The Adeptus has been turning away from the soup the healer was providing for him, face scrunched up in disgust.

 

Rambler didn’t know what was wrong but he’s also been sleeping less and less the last few days. The energy he managed to gather up was now slowly waning again.

 

Not sleeping was fine, Rambler was aware he was having nightmares. She’s walking in on him with his face twisted in discomfort before jolting quietly awake. If she hadn’t she probably wouldn’t even have known and he probably wouldn’t have told her.

 

Most Adepti don’t partake in sleeping, but not eating was another problem. Their energy comes from somewhere, food and sleep are the best for recovering lost energy, refusing to do both only leads to problems.

 

Overall very little had changed with him for a while. He’s fever is expected to remain for a little while longer as his body is still purging the remaining poison from the Viparyas flowers, as Guizhong relayed to her.

 

His wounds were healing nicely since his body was finally holding the energy needed to help them heal. The infections in his wounds were all but gone and he’ll be getting most of his stitches removed soon.

 

She thought maybe it was her food. She’s most definitely not the best cook, and no one’s complained about it often enough for her to doubt her food.

 

So the problem must be with his taste. Or maybe she was lacking something in his diet and it was making it harder for him to eat regularly.

 

She needs to talk to Marchosius about his food.

 

She placed the bowl aside to dry and dried her hands. She should see if the Adeptus wants to come with her for a change of scenery. Afterall he did so well being in the garden and with Morax.  Rambler gently knocked on the door before sliding it open.

 

The Adetups was as she had left him, simply laying on the bed doing nothing. He sat up when she came in, no longer feeling the need to hide in the corner anymore.

 

“I have to go run some errands.” She explained softly, “Would you like to come with me and get out of this room for a bit?”

 

He tilted his head.

 

“There will be Mortals and Adepti around but we probably won’t have to stop and talk to them.” She explains further. “But you’ll be able to see the real sky and outside and if it gets to be too much, we can come right back here, alright?”

 

He was quiet but got up and moved towards her, causing her to smile.

 

She got him a plain open back shirt and helped him put it on before she walked to the entrance where she pulled out a pair of sandals for him and helped put them on.

 

“Okay, time to leave the Teapot.” Rambler explained to him. “It might feel a little weird but I promise you’ll be fine.”

 

The air shifted and twisted and soon they were out in the, thankfully, empty hall.

 

Rambler began her walk towards Marchosius’ place. The Adetpus kept close, wings pressing tightly against his back as he looked around with fear and curiosity.

 

When they did come across people she felt the Adeptus grab onto the back of her robe, pressing himself into her back as they walked, eyes darting from each person and watching them.

 

They all looked at him with curiosity as well. As he was someone new and with the renowned healer, but they kept their distance upon seeing his discomfort.

 

She decided to take the longer route, it had less people and more nature compared to the shorter one.

 

Rambler offered him her hand but he remained firmly attached to the back of her robe while they walked slowly to the outskirts of town, him tripping over his sandals every once in a while.

 

It was a very nice day to be out. Clear skies, gentle breezes, right in the middle of changing seasons so the temperature was nice. It seems like he was enjoying it as well as he looked around.

 

Before long they made it to Marchosius’ kitchen. A moderately sized build where the Stove God cooks and serves the hungry. It was near a line of fruit trees and plots where the god grows his own ingredients to use.

 

It was a nice little area the god had carved out in the Assembly where everyone, mortal or not, could relax.

 

Some people were milling around in the open area surrounding the building, all with some kind of snack in hand. The smell of cooking food wafted around them as they drew closer.

 

“Greetings, Rambler.” Someone said, “I see our little friend is well enough to be out and around.”

 

Rambler paused and turned around. It was Menogias, whose hair was all tousled and littered with flowers thanks to Ganyu who was riding on his shoulders.

 

“Hello, Menogias, Ganyu.” Rambler returned the greeting, gently placing a hand on the Adeptus’ shoulder. “I asked if he wanted to join me and he agreed, I was planning on asking Marchosius a favor.”

 

“What a coincidence.” Menogias pulled the child off his shoulders, setting her on the ground. “We’re here to ask for some sweets since Ganyu’s been a good girl today.”

 

“Ganyu.” Rambler crouches down to talk to the girl. “Why don’t you take our friend here to the flower patch while we talk.”

 

“Okay!”

 

The girl took his hand, at which he looked scared but after Rambler told him it was okay he allowed the girl to drag him off.

 

“So is everything okay with him?” Menogias asked. “He seems to be doing well.”

 

“He’s healing.” Rambler said, crossing her arms. “But he’s not eating again.”

 

“Ah that’s why you need to talk to Lord Marchosius.” Menogias picked up on the matter. “To see if he can find something he’ll eat.”

 

“Are you sure it’s the food that’s the problem?” Menogias inquired. “And not something wrong with his stomach again?”

 

“Yes, I checked after I noticed.” Rambler explained. “But I found nothing wrong this time.”

 

Rambler glanced over to where the two young Adepti were. Ganyu was putting a makeshift flower crown on the boy’s head, only for it to fall to pieces.

 

“He’s been doing better then expected since he first arrived here.” Rambler turned back to Menogias. “But now we’re hitting his first snag. If he doesn’t want to sleep, he’ll need to eat and vise versa.”

 

“You could always get Ganyu to feed him again.” Menogias suggested with a laugh lacing his words. “I heard that worked the first time he wasn’t eating.”

 

“Maybe.”

 

They were just about to walk into the kitchen when a commotion happened. The sound of a little kid crying followed by the sound of someone getting hit rang out.

 

“Ow! Hey!” A shout echoed across the field and a blur of green and blue rushed weaved through the crowd. “Get back here!”

 

Before anyone could stop them. The blur brushed past them and into the tree line, disappearing out of sight, and leaving a Millelith Guard holding his wrist that was bleeding from a bite mark behind.

 

Ganyu and the Adeptus were nowhere to be seen.

Notes:

Hahahaha, you thought this chapter would be straight fluff? You fools!

Find out what happens next time.

heheheh

As always let me know what you think, I love feedback.

Chapter 26

Notes:

Got this chapter done a lot faster than I anticipated, so enjoy.

It didn't turn out exactly how I originally planned but this is how the flow went.

On to the chapter.

Rambler forgot about asking about food and turned to the injured Millelith man.

 

“Go find the kids.” Rambler told Menogias. “I’ll get his side of events.”

 

Rambler marched right up to the human soldier and grabbed his wrist to examine it.

 

“Ah… Madam Ping…” he seemed nervous. “You don’t need to worry about this.”

 

He was right, she hardly needs to worry about it. The bite was simply superficial and would stop bleeding even without aid.

 

“Yes, well I just so happen to have been here.” She told him, wrapping his wound. “Can you tell me what happened?”

 

“W-well… I saw Miss Ganyu and wanted to say hello.” He started, “When I noticed she was with an unknown Adeptus.”

 

“Go on.” 

 

“I was simply making sure she was okay and wanted to ask her some questions.” The soldier continued. “You know, to make sure she was okay, when the Strange Adeptus suddenly lashed out and ran off with her.”

 

Rambler noted him sweating. He was extremely nervous about something. She narrowed her eyes. He was lying about something.

 

“We should go after them.” The soldier said, looking away from Rambler’s eye contact. “I don’t think she is safe with him. He kinda looks like the Demon of Shǎndiàn.”

 

“General Kapisas is already looking for them.” Rambler informed him firmly, causing the man to flinch a bit. “Have you seen the Demon before?”

 

“N-no, but one of my friends was injured by the Demon a while ago.” The soldier explained. “Said the last thing he saw was golden eyes, which I’ve noticed isn’t a common trait among the Adepti.”

 

He seemed almost smug about saying that. Like he’s figured out something no one else has.

 

“Well I can’t say if the color is common or not either, as not all Adepti take human forms.” Rambler refuted and tried redirecting the conversation, “but I’m sure Lord Morax will be happy to answer your theory on the matter, as the young man is of special interest to him.”

 

“L-lord Morax is coming?” The man stuttered, “W-why would he come all this way for a simple matter?”

 

“Two Adepti are involved.” Rambler felt there was definitely more to this story. “Please refrain from leaving the area until all involved have been questioned.”

 

Just as she finished tending to the bite wound Morax landed nearby, Guizhong sliding off his back as he shifted from dragon to human.

 

Lord Marchosius’ doing no doubt. He could be real protective of the younger Adepti, it was one of his more endearing traits.

 

“Lord Morax. Lady Guizhong.” Rambler greeted. “Let me fill you in on the situation so far.”

 

---

 

Following the path the Adeptus took was quite easy. The kid was in a rush and didn’t bother covering his track.

 

Menogias won’t place any judgment on the younger Adeptus until he understands why he did what he did.

 

What he does understand is that the kid felt the need to run away and take Ganyu with him. That he needed to bite the Millelith as well. The kid never instigated direct physical contact, yet completely picked up Ganyu and ran.

 

Something was off with his whole situation.

 

Upon coming across a patch of disturbed dirt, the feeling of something wrong grew stronger.

 

Based on the patch not matching foot prints but rather something larger, and the fact that there was a sandal lying by itself, suggests the boy fell.

 

They should be close by then.

 

He moved on to the next clearing and was greeted with growling.

 

There stood the Adeptus in a defensive manner, sharp teeth, pink and bared. His bandaged wings stretched out and puffed were the regrowing feathers stuck out, trying to make himself look bigger. His eyes were sharp as they settled on Menogias. Blood dripped from a spot on his head and dirt covered his form. He was favoring one of his legs, not putting weight in it.

 

Menogias might as well be facing an injured wolf rather than a healing Adeptus.

 

And Ganyu was nowhere to be seen.

 

“Easy there.” Menogias said calmly, pulling himself out completely from behind the bush he came around. “I’m not here to hurt you and you're not in trouble.”

 

“You’re hurt.” He stated, keeping his palms up to show no tricks as he inches forward. “Do you want Miss Rambler to take a look at it?”

 

No response.

 

“Hmm can you at least show me where Ganyu is?” He asked, only receiving a stronger growl at the name. “I want to make sure she’s alright.”

 

Menogias stopped a few feet from him and sat on his knees, letting the Adeptus control the situation.

 

“I don’t know if you remember me.” Menogias kept talking. “But I was one of the people who helped Miss Rambler with your wings, my name is Menogias.”

 

Still nothing from the Adeptus but atleast the growling lessened up. A bush rustled behind the Adeptus and Ganyu pushed herself out from under the Adeptus’ wings and ran towards him, clinging to the front of his clothes.

 

Menogias rubbed her back and took in her state of being.

 

Her blue hair was tousled and a mess. A red mark was on her face and she had obviously been crying but otherwise was unharmed. Much to the General’s relief.

 

“Ganyu.” Menogias said calmly. “Are you okay?”

 

“I was scawd.” Ganyu but her lip as more tears welled up in her eyes. “The man wouldn’t weave us awone.”

 

“The man?” Menogias prodded gently. “You mean the Millelith man?”

 

“Hmmm.” Ganyu nodded, reaching up to wipe the tears away. “He was bewing mean to Niao!”

 

“Niao?” Menogias questioned, glancing up to the winged Adeptus, who was no longer growling, and back. He supposed it was fitting since the word meant ‘bird’. “Do you know why the man was being mean?”

 

“No.” She hiccuped out. “He kept tawking about blesswings and… and favors and asking how old I was.”

 

“And why did… ‘Niao’ run off with you?” Menogias asked, not liking what Ganyu was saying. 

 

“I triwed to stop the man from hitting Niao again. He wanted Niao to leave but he wouldn’t” She explained. “But he grwabbed me and hit me and I think it scared him.”

 

She whispered that last part but it wasn’t very quiet. Menogias saw the Adeptus dip his head.

 

“I see.” Menogias stood up with her in his arms, getting closer to Niao. “Well I think he did the right thing, but next time try to run towards me or Rambler, alright?”

 

Menogias reached a hand out causing the Adeptus to flinch, as if about to get hit, and ruffled the boy’s hair.

 

“Now, are you okay?” He asked the boy. “Did you hurt your leg?”

 

He didn’t expect any respond but he also didn’t expect the Adeptus to simply pitch forward either.

 

“Whoa, hey.” Menogias caught him, causing Ganyu to squeak as she was suddenly squished between the two of them. “What’s wrong?”

 

Menogias shifted Ganyu so she wasn’t being squished and kept a supporting arm around the boy suddenly leaning against him. He could feel the warmth coming off him.

 

“Mmmh…” the boy moaned out, also gripping the front of Menogias clothes. “…Safe…”

 

It was so quiet the Menogias didn’t even register the boy spoke at first.

 

“That’s right.” Menogias said softly, ruffling the back of the Adeptus’ hair. “Safe.”

 

Menogias let Ganyu go and hefted the boy up into his arms.

 

“Come on, Ganyu, let’s head back and find Rambler.”

Notes:

The guard was supposed to be more mean and angry then creepy but I'll try fixing that in the next chapter.

Anyways, I hope you enjoyed it as there's still at least one more chapter to this mini arc

as Always I love feedback, let me know what you think.

and before anyone asks, Ganyu saying a part of his 'real' name I picked was simply the same as a child naming a dog 'Mr.puppy' It's part of the reason I pick 'Luniao' (jade bird) as his name.

I also have a surprise for the next chapter as well.

Chapter 27

Notes:

Alright here's the chapter, it's long too, surprise.

it was going to be longer but I feel like the rest will be better suited for another chapter instead

now we have Xiao's pov's on the matter

I left the man's intentions purposely vague for your own interpretation, so It only goes as deep as you like.

Enjoy.

He didn’t know why he accepted the Healer’s offer to go outside as he kept close to her they passed as yet another stranger.

 

Thankfully they’ve kept their distance from him, only giving curious looks before carrying on with what they were doing.

 

Yet he didn’t regret it… yet.

 

Everything had been as promised, real skies, real wind, very little encounters with other people.

 

The smells were the best.

 

While the place he was being kept was great and open, he could tell it was fake. Well not fake… just not as real. The grass felt like grass, but didn’t smell like grass.

 

Out here he could smell the grass, the tint of salt from the sea, spices and food from merchants somewhere nearby, the dirt. It was great and refreshing and… freeing.

 

Too see the real clouds drift by, feeling the warm rays of the sun on his skin, the birds chirping and flying around. His wings twitched as he watched them fly off into the open sky, sending a dull ache through his back.

 

He pressed his face into the healer’s back to shake off the desire to fly. He can’t fly, even if he wanted to, his wings were damaged and he never learned in the first place.

 

He allowed her to take him wherever she was going, everything was so unfamiliar to him now that he didn’t want to leave her side. He did his best to not trip over the thin pieces of woven straw she had him wear on his feet.

 

Everything was so unlike his old Master’s land. No one seemed… scared or oppressed… they seemed even happy to live here. The soldiers that milled around did nothing to the citizens. They didn’t threaten people, steal, or chase after the women. In fact they seemed even helpful as he caught a glimpse of one of them helping an older mortal carry her bags.

 

It was all strange but he wouldn’t call it bad.

 

The healer was heading to a lone building standing in the middle of a field that was growing food. 

 

A lot of food.

 

It was literally hanging from the trees for just anyone to grab.

 

The smell of food grew stronger the closer they got to the building. His stomach twisted and rumbled at the smells, but the thought of eating made the hunger churned into nausea.

 

He hoped she wasn’t bringing him here to eat.

 

He heard a voice behind him, causing him to tense as the Healer turned around.

 

At first he thought it was his Master but it wasn’t. It was a man just as tall and dressed in the same colors, exuding similar enough Geo energy, but wasn’t a God. No he was more like the Healer and himself, not Mortal but not Divine either.

 

The man was chatting with the Healer but his focus was on the girl riding his shoulders.

 

It was the little one from before.

 

He watched as she was pulled off the shoulders and set in the ground. She looked okay, nearly the same the first time he saw her.

 

“Ganyu.” His attention was back on the Healer as crouched down to the girl.

 

Ganyu? Was that her name?

 

Wait…

 

What was the healer’s name? Did she ever tell him her name? He should know her name, he sees her every day. What about the two adult birds that have been helping with his wings? He didn’t know their names either now that he thinks about. Yet he knows his Master’s name and now Ganyu’s name…

 

Next thing he knew Ganyu was pulling him by the hand somewhere.

 

A quick glance to the healer and he got confirmation that he was allowed to go with her.

 

She leads him to a large patch of flowers of various colors and scents and sits down, dragging him with her.

 

He glanced around as she started picking the flowers. No one seemed to care so he went back to watching her.

 

It seems like she was trying to weave the flowers together but he didn’t understand why, was this her purpose? Or was she doing it for her own gain? She… wasn’t very good at it as he watched one knot come undone and then another as she tried to fix it.

 

His thoughts were cut off when she tried putting the poorly made ring of flowers on his head, only for it to fall to pieces.

 

He froze thinking she would be upset but she just giggled as she picked up the flowers to start over.

 

“Oh Lady Ganyu!” A new voice spoke near them. “What’s going on over here?”

 

It was one of the soldiers. He was rather plain looking, and didn’t look old nor young, just… very average for a Mortal.

 

He didn’t spare a glance his direction at all.

 

“I’m making a crown!” Ganyu said, holding her half finished weave. “For Niao!”

 

“I see.” The man barely glanced at him. “And who else are you with?”

 

He kept watching the soldier talk to Ganyu, something was off about him, he felt it. He didn’t know what it was. The twitch in the man’s hand, the sweat forming, the way he only focused on Ganyu, asking her about her age and things he didn’t understand.

 

“Why doesn’t your friend go get us some snacks?” He snapped back to the conversation at being addressed. “I’m sure you guys are hungry right?”

 

The man leered at him with a forced smile, as if he was trying to get him to do something.

 

But he did not move.

 

He didn’t know if he was allowed to leave Ganyu alone.

 

“No? Not hungry?” The man's tone seemed to change at his inaction? “How about drinks? It’s fairly warm right now?”

 

“Uncle Meno is bringing snacks!” Ganyu added. “He’s with Ping!”

 

“O-oh, well then why doesn’t he go see where they are then?”

 

“He doesn’t talk.”

 

The man’s face was slowly changing from a forced smile to annoyance, making him go on guard.

 

“W-well I need him to leave so I can discuss the ‘blessing’ I want.”

 

“I don’t know how to grant blessing.”

 

“I can show you, but it’s a secret.”

 

“But he’s also an Adeptus, he should learn too!”

 

He got closer to Ganyu, upon seeing how uncomfortable she was getting at the man’s insistence and narrowed his eyes at the soldier.

 

There next thing he knew he was falling to the side as his crouched balance was undone and pain blossomed across his face.

 

“Leave now, bird boy.” The man sneered at him, as if to intimidate him. “If you know what’s good for you.”

 

He let growl as he sat up again and Ganyu moved between him and the man, arms out and an upset look on her face.

 

“Don’t hit him!” She stomped her foot, “It’s not nice!”

 

“You shut up.” The man slapped her before taking a handful of hair, causing the girl to squeal in pain. “You're coming with me and giving me a ‘blessing’!”

 

He didn’t think as he lunged forward, his teeth closing down around the wrist of the man’s hand holding Ganyu. The bite was enough to make the man release Ganyu and he scooped her up in his arms, her weight causing him to stumble as he pulled her away from the man.

 

She was heavier than she looked.

 

He looked around for the Healer and the Geo man, anyone he could… trust but there were only strangers upon strangers. He couldn’t see the healer at all in the crowd.

 

So… he ran.

 

He bolted away from the man shouting at him and made for the trees. Trees mean cover and safety.

 

Ganyu was crying into his chest as he jumped around bushes and rocks. He kept going, not knowing where or how far he was before his leg decided to twist and he landed on the dirt, hard.

 

He stood up again and limped forward. 

 

He didn’t know if the man was coming after them or not. He looked around for any place he could hide them, but it was clearing after clearing. He got them past the next line of bushes before he gave up. The pain radiating in his leg was making it hard to continue.

 

He set Ganyu down next to the bush, close enough to hide her in it in case the man found them, and checked her over.

 

She was whimpering as he ran his fingers through her hair checking for injuries but she looked okay, just… upset? Was that the word? He wanted her to stop crying.

 

He bit his lip and glanced around. It was just them here for now, no one would know… hopefully.

 

He limped his way to one of the trees and grabbed a low hanging two-toned fruit before heading back to Ganyu, holding it out to her.

 

“Okay?” 

 

He grimaced at the sound of his voice. It was scratchy and quiet. It hurt his throat.

 

When was the last time he actually said something?

 

“Okay?”

 

Ganyu looked up at him and the fruit, rubbing water from her face. She clung to the front of his shirt with one hand. She blinked at him before wailing.

 

He panicked as she wrapped her arms around him, knocking the fruit from his hand and rubbed her face into his chest. He winced as it sent a shock of pain through his chest where he was hurt but didn’t stop her.

 

Only because allowing her seemed to be calming her down.

 

They stayed like that until he heard a sound behind them. He pushed Ganyu into the bush and turned around, making sure his wings were blocking Ganyu from view.

 

But it was not the soldier, it was the Geo man Ganyu was with before.

 

He gave a growl, and he paused, only inching forward every few moments talking to him. Assuring he wasn’t in trouble and mentioning a ‘Miss Rambler’. Was that the Healer’s name?

 

“I don’t know if you remember me but I was one of the people who helped Miss Rambler with your wings.” Geo man said calmly. “My name is Menogias.”

 

This man’s touched his wings? He didn’t know who to feel about that. Before he could think further on it he felt Ganyu’s small body move, pushing his wing up so she could get under it. He ignored the twinge of pain from it as he watched her run to ‘Menogias’.

 

She trusted him so he would too.

 

He heard his heart pounding in his ears as he relaxed. His neck felt warm and his head fuzzy. He flinched when a hand came into his field of vision but it gently landed on his head and shifted his hair.

 

It felt nice.

 

He shifted his wait but he forgot his leg was hurt when it didn’t support his weight and collapsed underneath him. His vision filled with brown as Menogias caught him.

 

‘Safe’ he reminded himself, letting himself be picked up by the man, holding onto his robes as he was carried.

Notes:

I hope you enjoy, I realized that I never wrote Rambler's name in Xiao's Pov so I made him have an mental crisis about who's everyone's names were heheh.

Hope you liked it, this saga will definitely be ending in the next chapter, which means justice for Ganyu and Xiao.

As always I appreciate feedback of all kinds as I like to hear what people think and how the story is feeling to you guys.

See you next time.

Chapter 28

Notes:

Alright, the 28th chapter is finally here.

It took me a while because I just couldn't figure how to right the scene the way I wanted it to go, but here it is, not exactly what I envisioned but good enough(hopefully) to satisfy you guys.

There a little surprise for you was well.

I also forgot that I put Guizhong in the scene. She's just here to watch I guess

Also this story has hit number 1 overall amongst all my stories so far, which is neat.

Morax waited for the return of Menogias before deciding anything.

 

The mortal was very adamant that the young Adeptus was at fault but like Rambler, he believes there is more to the story.

 

By now a small crowd has formed with the commotion but he paid it no mind, they’ll move on to the next interesting thing after a while. They’re just simply curious about the… drama going on right now.

 

At least if he understood mortals well enough that’s what was going on.

 

A few moments after hearing Ramber’s side, and listening to the nervous words of the guard who started this, did Menogias appear from beyond the tree line.

 

His general was walking slowly due to Ganyu, who to his relief looked fine, was gripping the bottom of his robes. In his arms was their little Adeptus, looking less fine but was also limp.

 

It was… concerning.

 

Rambler made her way over to them as Menogias settled the boy on a nearby bench. Morax followed shortly after. He kept an eye on the mortal soldier who seemed ready to almost run upon seeing the three Adepti return.

 

“How are they?” Morax asked, stopping a few feet away from them. “Any concerns?”

 

“Ganyu is fine.” Rambler told him, “A little shaken up, maybe a bruise or two, but overall fine.”

 

Coming closer he could see that the Adeptus was indeed injured, bleeding from a cut in his head.

 

“Let’s see here.” 

 

He watched as Rambler did her quick check on the boy. Having him follow her finger, asking ‘yes’ and ‘no’ questions, being informed of a possible leg injury by Menogias.

 

He barely responded to Rambler’s poking and prodding minutely flinching when her hands brushed against the cut in his head and the swelling on his leg.

 

“Ganyu.” Menogias picked up the younger Half-Adeptus, bringing her up to Morax’s level. “Can you point out the bad guy who hit you and Niao.”

 

Morax noted the deepening red mark on the girl’s face as she pointed straight to the soldier who the boy had bitten.

 

He almost chuckled at the apparent nickname she had given their healing friend. It reminded him of a name from a story he once heard. 

 

Hmm…

 

Morax stomped his foot as he was pulled out of his thoughts when the soldier decided to move. The wave of Geo sprung up around the man, holding him in place and stopping his attempt to flee.

 

“Only the guilty run when caught.” He said, taking a step toward the man. “Would you like to explain why these two children are injured?”

 

Morax dragged the Geo trap closer to him. The man looked beyond nervous.

 

“I-I don’t know.” He stammered. “Like I told Madam Ping, I was only suspicious of the new Adeptus, I would never cause harm to a child.”

 

Morax stared him down, waiting for more useless defenses, making the man sweat profusely.

 

“I truly just wanted to check on her well being.” His eyes darted to the side, looking past the god. “I believe you should ask that little beast who bit me how she got hurt.”

 

Deflection, trying to throw suspicion onto another. 

 

“I know she’s five hundred years old.” He muttered out, “But I just wanted to ask her a question, that’s all.”

 

Morax said nothing and turned to Menogias. His general quietly relayed what he knew of the matter, what Ganyu had told him.

 

“I understand now.” Morax’s voice rumbled out. “And I shall enact proper punishment.”

 

“You, Yangwong, shall be stripped of your rank.” The man flinched at the use of his name, “for failing to uphold your contract as a member of the Millelith to protect those within the Guili Assembly’s borders. For bringing harm upon a resident, Adeptus, and guest of the Assembly. For trying to use you position to cause harm. For you now shall suffer the Wrath of the Rock.

 

The man wanted to refute but couldn’t as the punishment for breaking the contract. Shards of Geo dug into his skin leaving behind a glowing mark, confirming he’s broken the contract he’d taken up. It glowed and shall forever mark him as a reminder.

 

“You shall no longer be allowed an audience with any Adeptus without any reason other than in cases of emergencies. You are not allowed to rejoin the ranks of the Millelith. Your access to the Assembly’s palace will become limited. Finally, you shall serve the sentence for assault before being released on probation.”

 

“You can’t do that!” The mortal shouted. “I did nothing wrong, it was that new Adeptus! Where did he even come from anyways!”

 

Whispers started up around them, Morax paid them no mind as they were merely talking about the situation. But I might be best to clarify some matter in order to prevent a repeat of the incident.

 

Morax looked over to Rambler and the Adeptus, who were watching him. Fear was filled in those golden eyes of his as Morax gestures for him to come closer.

 

“Enough.” Morax silenced everyone. “I would like it to be known that this young Adeptus is a healing guest here that I brought within the Assembly myself. He has had a hard journey for some time and was recently recovered as a victim to Shǎndiàn’s cruel ways.”

 

Morax stood resolute as he carefully placed a hand behind the boy’s back, to help support him. Morax felt his body tense at the touch but paid it no mind.

 

“His name is Xiao and he shall be treated like any other being within the Assembly’s protection while he is here to heal.” Morax addressed the crowd. “I trust you all to be patient and willing to accommodate him as needed.”

 

“Please return to your business.”

 

The crowd dispersed as his word, the mortals returning to their tasks and errands, no doubt gossiping about the new drama that unfolded. 

 

He released the now disgraced soldier from his Geo confines as two more guards came to take him away.

 

“And to think we were both called out here?” Guizhong said, coming up beside him. “I was all ready to use the Memory of Dust as well.”

 

“Apologies, Guizhong.” Morax said, watching Menogias pick up the Adeptus to help Rambler return him to the teapot. “But that Mortal’s argument and logic were too flimsy to not see through and know what his true intentions were.”

 

“I understand.” Guizhong joined him in watching the four Adepti leave the area. “It’s nice to see him out and about, shame it was ruined.”

 

“He’ll have another chance.” Morax said, “When he’s ready.”

 

The two gods also took their leave, if only to avoid the gawking mortals watching them.

 

“Sooo…” Guizhong dragged out. “Xiao huh?”

 

“I find it very fitting for him.” Morax defended. “Ganyu calling him Niao reminded me of something.

 

“For someone who used to be a bloodthirsty battle beast.” Guizhong started, “You turned out to be such a wonk.”

 

“You only have yourself to blame, Guizhong.” Morax rebuffed, “You're the one who taught me to read.”

 

They didn’t get far before Marchosius stopped them, handing them a few bags of… sweets?

 

“These are for the Youngsters.” The bear grumbled out, “I hope it will help them.”

 

The god then returned to his kitchen.

 

For a god of few words he certainly knows how to get straight to the point. Morax couldn't help but smile. His friend was always intuitive to the needs of others.

 

“Let’s be in our way then.”

Notes:

Woo Xiao's been named, kinda, Morax still needs to actually talk to the sad borb about it first.

Anyways, hope you enjoyed it and this marks the end of this segment. Time to return to the regularly scheduled Angst and Whump.

As always I appreciate feedback of all kinds as it helps me write better and motivates me into getting chapters out for you guys.

See you next chapter

Chapter 29

Notes:

So... I'm putting a trigger warning on this chapter, it has a very detailed...panic attack? I guess, it was based on something that happened to me somewhat recently but I don't know it was actually a panic attack or just very sudden low blood pressure, i don't get panicky about things and mine was accidentally caused so... yeah

anyways there's a treat near the end of the chapter I hope you enjoy.

heheheh

‘Menogias’ brought him back to the room he’s been staying in this whole time and set him in the bed. He wasn’t aware they had been moving. He remembers being picked up, getting set down and the Healer… ‘Rambler’ if he remembers correctly, checking and poking his new injuries.

 

His head hurt a lot and he was dizzy. He heard his Master’s voice and his mind went blank, no doubt he was to be punished for biting one of the guards.

 

So then… Why was he here? Shouldn’t he have been brought to… wherever they enact punishments? Not the place they’ve been… nice to him… unless they didn’t care about making a mess…

 

Menogias kneeled down in front of him and raised a hand. Breathing became harder all of a sudden as for a moment, the image of his previous master flashed before his eyes. He scrambled away, running over his own wings as he did. A moment of weightlessness passed over him when his hand slipped, sending him down the other side of the bed, landing with a thud.

 

He clawed at his chest, tearing at his shirt and bandages. It hurt and was numb at the same time and the feeling of his heart beating in his ears seemed to make it worse. The room seemed to get unbearably warm as he tried to draw in air. His ears went fuzzy as well, taking his hearing away.

 

Was this the punishment?

 

The room spun around him as his neck no longer wanted to support his head, causing it to drop to his chest, making breathing even harder.

 

What was happening? Was he dying? Did they finally decide how to deal with him?

 

His hands were suddenly wrenched away from where he was clawing at himself and something very cold touched the back of his neck, causing him to gasp, drawing in a big breath in.

 

The fogginess of his mind cleared just enough to register the blurry face of Rambler in front of him, looking concerned. Behind her was someone in white and brown holding, they were the one holding his hands up and away from scratching at himself.

 

He tried to focus his eyes as he tried to inhale again, only to see his Master was the one holding his hands.

 

The struggle to breath grew stronger. Where had he come from? His heart was pounding so fast it hurt. When did he get here? 

 

He tried to pull away. He had to get away. He felt his wings smack against the wall and the bed. He heard a crash as they caught the small table next to the bed, startling him even more. Pain shot through his wings the more he struggled to get away.

 

Someone grabbed one of his wings, sending him into a blind panic. The only thing he could see was his old Master standing over him, a grin splitting her face in half as she ripped feather after feather from his wings.

 

He slammed into something solid and suddenly he couldn’t move. His arms, his wings, his body, nothing would move no matter how he tried to wiggle and worm away. Something was in front of his face and he tried biting down on it, hoping to be released.

 

Not even a flinch as something touched the back of his head. He flinched against it but nothing changed.

 

Then everything seemed to have stopped. He couldn’t hear, he couldn’t see, he could barely breathe. He still tried to get away but he wouldn’t move.

 

Then he became aware again, just a bit.

 

Whatever was on his head was heavy, but its touch was gentle. Slowly moved in the same pattern across his scalp.

 

There was a rumble to the solid thing he was pressed against. It was also moving slightly, in a steady manner.

 

He didn’t know how long it’s been. He was taking in short, shallow breaths. Drool was escaping from where he had sunk his teeth into...something with each breath.

 

He focused on the rumbling and the steady movement that accompanied it. He started getting deeper and longer breaths. His hearing came back with the increased air he was now getting.

 

Someone was talking. It was a deep voice, very close to his ear… in tune with the rumbling he was focused on.

 

Master.

 

He froze. His panic comeback upon realizing his position.

 

“It’s okay.” His Master said in his ear. “You’re not in trouble, calm down.”

 

His Master’s hand, or was he was assuming was his hand, continued its pattern along his scalp, even if Master himself tensed up.

 

“Breathe with me, it’s okay.” His Master spoke again, “You’re not in trouble, calm down.”

 

He tried to push away again but his Master hold on him was unwavering as he just repeated the same thing again.

 

By the third breath he realized he was still biting… his… Master…

 

He let go immediately, the weight of what he did sat heavy on his mind. The room started spinning again and he sat frozen in his Master’s hold.

 

He was biting his Master. Again !

 

Unlike before, everything suddenly came into focus. The arm wrapped around him, pinning him to his Master. The sound of his breath, still ragged and uneven. The sound of his Master’s voice, calm and steady. No anger or displeasure lacing it’s tone. 

 

He felt warm as everything became too much and he… and he…

 

Threw up.

 

Thankfully barely anything came up, but what did went onto his Master’s white clothes.

 

Making him feel even worse.

 

Yet his Master did not react in anger, or disgust. He barely reacted at all, only moving the hand on his head.

 

“Breathe.” He sucked in another breath at his Master’s word. “And another.”

 

He followed his Master’s instructions on breathing until his head stopped spinning. His heart was still racing and his chest still hurt but not as badly as before.

 

He stared at the shimmering scales on the shoulder in front of his eyes. He stopped trying to get away, understanding that it was a futile action.

 

He was tired.

 

“Are you calm now?”

 

He flinched and his eyes shot up to look at his Master’s. Master’s face was speckled with more scales and two golden horns adorned his head, as his cor lapis eyes stared down at him.

 

He gave his Master a nod.

 

“Are you okay?”

 

He stared at his Master. Why would the god ask that? Why would he be concerned for someone like him? His Master’s face revealed nothing, remaining it ever cold and impassive, very much like the stone he commands.

 

But his eyes were different. 

 

The blazing amber were fierce, yet held concern and warmth, so unlike the cold, sharp eyes of his old Master. It reminds him of the scale he was given, the one he hid away along with the feathers he was gifted as well.

 

“Are you okay?” This time he gave his Master a nod. “Okay, then I’m going to let you go now.”

 

The hand on his head disappeared and the one holding his hands let go at the same time. Which confused him, because then what was holding his wings and body?

 

The grip around him loosened and slipped away, freeing him completely from his Master’s hold. Looking down he saw a… scaly rope slide away from him, it drew his attention.

 

What was it? Some kind of tool his Master uses? He watched slowly move before it stopped. It had a tuft of fur in the end. He followed its length until it disappeared behind his Master.

 

Oh… it was his Master’s tail.

 

The tip wiggled drawing his attention again. He watched it move across the floor, back and forth, closer then further.

 

He froze, something in the back of his mind told him to wait for the right moment… then… right when it stopped moving… to grab it.

 

He bolted forward, catching the end of the tail beneath both hands as it started to wiggle away again. The fur was soft as he held his prize, proud he caught it.

 

Until his Master let out a chuckle, causing him to drop the tail, heat flaring up again on his face. He felt the need to hide again.

 

He forgot that that was a part of his Master’s body.

Notes:

hehehe, hope you like it. it was mainly just a big set up for big chapter 30

I hope you liked it.

Anyways let me know if you liked it, I enjoy all kinds of feedback.

Oh and let me know if I wrote a panic attack, or acute low blood pressure... or both somehow.

Chapter 30

Notes:

Alright we've made it to chapter 30! I believe this is now the longest story I've ever written.

I got some fluff, slight whump, and maybe some confustion for you guys as I just went and made some minor lore nonsense up for this chapter.

I hope you enjoys.

To celebrate I'll give a shout out to my top 5 commenters whose helped keep me motivated in writing this story.

Thank you to:
MysteriousDeviant
JonaAllana
Sarareri
Chixiaom
inc4ssum

You guys have been commenting since the beginning of this story and have given feedback or support on almost every chapter so far, thank you so much. For everyone else who I didn't mention on the list I still thank your support on this story. A lot of you are repeat commentators who've given great feedback and support throughout the different aspects and ideas of my story.

When Rambler knocked softly on the door after things quieted down, she didn’t expect to see the scene before her when entering the room.

 

The little Adeptus was entangled around Morax’s tail, biting it, and the God himself was watching the boy wiggle around in the coils of tail with an almost mirthful gleam to his eyes.

 

She scanned both of them with her own eyes. Despite the biting, the Dragon’s tail looked undamaged but they both had blood on their chests.

 

“Ahem.” Both pairs of intense gold and amber eyes immediately snapped to her and if she was anyone else, would have probably thought it was intimidating or unnerving. “I take it he’s calmed down?”

 

“Apologizes, Rambler.” Morax said, getting up from the floor and uncoiling most of his tail from the Adeptus. “We may have been momentarily distracted, but yes, he’s okay now.”

 

Rambler looked at the Adeptus who still had the end of Morax’s tail in his mouth and his golden eyes watched her every move.

 

“Come on, spit that out.” Rambler sat on the edge of the bed, patting the spot next to her. “I need to treat those scratches you gave yourself.”

 

The Adeptus released Morax’s tail, who slid it behind himself and away from the boy, and pushed himself up. His legs didn’t support his weight and he stumbled, thankfully Morax managed to grab his arm to keep him from hitting the ground again.

 

Golden eyes flashed to the god and they paused for a moment. Rambler watched the pause with interest, something had obviously changed between the two before Rambler came back with the supplies to treat the new injuries. Whatever silent meaning between them ended and the God helped the boy onto the bed.

 

The dizziness the Adetpus was not unexpected after such a strong panic attack so she wasn’t very concerned about it at the moment. She gently pulled off the bloody and torn shirt and bandages, tossing them to the side, and inspected the injuries.

 

It could have been worse, she decided.

 

The wounds bleed freely but sluggishly. He had luckily missed scratching at his still healing wound that Morax had given him and mostly got the areas around it. None of them were particularly deep so stitches aren't necessary. Rambler cleaned the area and wiped some ointment on them. She decided to check the big, older wound while it was uncovered.

 

It looked like it was healing very well despite the yellow crust built up around the edges, it was dry, clean, and the infectious swelling had gone down alot. The matching injury on his back was even better, looking like the stitches holding it closed will be able to get removed soon with potentially minimal scarring.

 

She quickly wrapped new bandages around his chest before allowing him to move away from her and closer to his usual spot on the bed.

 

“Now, I believe Morax wanted to talk to you about something.” Rambler said, cleaning her hands with a towel. “But it’s been a long day so if you want us to leave we can.”

 

The Adeptus looked at her with a slight tilt to his head before his eyes darted between her and Morax.

 

“I can stay or leave.” Rambler told him, “Whatever would make you feel more comfortable.”

 

He didn’t do anything to suggest for either of them to leave, as the Adeptus shuffled his feet a little. Rambler gave Morax a small nod, letting him know it was okay to try. The God sat down on the other edge of the bed, making sure to face the Adetpus.

 

“I want to give you a name.” Morax simply stated, blunt but gentle. “Since we have nothing to call you by and I feel that you have your reasons for it, and we will not push for you to tell us anything.”

 

The Adeptus simply tilted his head again.

 

“I can understand wanting to leave parts of the past behind you, and if you want, this new name could be the start of your new beginning. A mark of your freedom, your recovery, it can be yours to do with as you please and no one will stop you from taking it.” Morax continued, gauging the reactions of the boy. “So… Will you take up this name that will belong to you, and only you?”

 

Time seemed to drag as the Adeptus looked down, thinking.

 

Rambler could not tell what he was thinking, or if the boy even understood what Morax had even asked him. As Adepti, names were a part of their very beings. Changing it or taking on a new one was something they would rarely do without reason as they are also titles to be proud of. 

 

There was power in names. It was a big deal for Adepti to change or add a name to associate with them. Most new names were granted by achievements, and even then they were just extended, much like Morax, the Lord of Geo, after the god’s unsurpassable control over his element, among other titles he’s been given.

 

For Morax to offer to give him a new name was special. Granted it’s simply just to have something to call him by, Rambler also understood that Morax was offering it as a tool to help move past the past. A ‘new beginning’ like he said.

 

The Adeptus looked up after a while and gave Morax a nod.

 

“Very well.”

 

Morax stood up and faced the Adetpus squarely, standing tall and straight like the God he is.

 

“I hereby grant you the name ‘Xiao’ in place of your old one.” Morax announced to the air. “In the fables of another land, the name ‘Xiao’ is that of a spirit who encountered great suffering and hardship. He endured much suffering, as you have. Use this name from now on.”

 

Morax held out his hand to the Adetpus, glowing with the powers that will allow the new name to be etched into the Adeptus’ being. Rambler watched the boy hesitate only for a moment before taking the God’s hand. With that a flash of gold light briefly filled the room, the name was now a part of the boy and his powers. Rambler was impressed that the Adeptus didn’t waver or flinch at the small ceremony.

 

“Xiao…” he hoarsely and quietly said, seemingly to himself. “I… am Xiao…”

 

Rambler smiled at hearing his voice. She thought the name was very fitting for the boy when Morax revealed the meaning behind it. If not maybe hitting the nail a little too on the head with it.

 

Her joy was dampened slightly when Xiao started to drop to the side. No doubt the day’s events finally caught up with his still recovering body. 

 

Morax caught Xiao before he could fall off the side of the bed again and carefully laid him across the bed. Rambler helped tuck him in and blew out the lanterns.

 

“Come on.” Rambler said, dragging the god out behind her. “I believe we have some news to share, let’s let him rest.”

Notes:

Alright Xiao's been officially named in the story, and I'll slowly be pulling back from using "the Adeptus" or "The boy" and treat him just like all the other 'named' characters as we transition into character's learning his new name.

As always let me know what you think of the chapter as all feedback is good feedback.

Updates might slow down a little as one of my old writing partners reached out to me and wants to start working on one of our older fics again as well as a newer, similar, fic making my current ongoing fic out potentially going up to 4.

I'll see you next chapter.

And again, thank you to everyone who's supported this story, whether it was by comments, kudos, follows or all of the above.

Chapter 31

Notes:

Yay new chapter, I hope everyone had some great holidays... mine were... okay, not the best but could of been a lot worse, no one died so that's a plus.

I got a long one for you so I hope you'll enjoy.

Heheheh

Today was a dark day.

 

Not in a literal sense as the weather was actually quite nice, but soldiers were all running around.

 

Bonanus and her siblings have been dealing with a land grab all day as well as directing refugees to the safe areas. 

 

The Assembly had planned to once again offer a hand out to Lady Havria after news of her losing more land reached them, only to find her land in chaos, and the goddess slain.

 

The explosion of energy was felt across the lands before they had even arrived at the border.

 

The effects were instantaneous.

 

Osial didn’t have an army, but he didn’t need one when his realm was under the water. Simply raising the water levels of the ocean was enough for him to start claiming the newly unruled land. Drowning any thing that stood in his way.

 

Menogias was currently holding off the water with his Geo powers, preventing flooding while she and Indarius pulled survivors from the blast zone.

 

Bosacius was heading the other side, setting up new borders along Chi’s border. However the dragon of the North had made no move to claim new land… yet.

 

Guizhong and Morax were here as well. Morax aiding in stopping Osial’s flood but was mainly handling the excess energy from Lady Havria’s death.

 

It was… terrible.

 

People were covered in salt, some areas of skin were almost crumbling off of them due to the salt dehydrating anything they touched. The further they went in, the worse the damage to the mortals.

 

Some had missing limbs that had just seemed to disintegrate at a mere touch, others were fully encased in salt, unmoving like statues, frozen in positions of fear and panic as they made attempts to flee the energy.

 

Bonanus did her best to help dispel the salt with her water, but the powers of an Adeptus was nothing compared to that of a god. 

 

The most she could do was wash away the grains off people to prevent further damage until Streetward Rambler could look at them.

 

Guizhong was dealing with the people they pulled out of the new ruins. Offering the comfort and assurances that they would be welcomed into the Assembly should they choose to live there.

 

There wasn’t much for them to actually do other than offer aid and quickly establish new borders before the other gods did.

 

While a terrible event, they could get their border all the way to the edge of Mondstadt, opening trade for people to move more safely through. However it would leave them with enemies on both sides. Opening them up to more border skirmishes.

 

It was less than ideal, but also a good opportunity.

 

When Bonanus and Indarias reached the last chamber of Havria’s stronghold, they could see the whole story.

 

Havria was slain by her own followers. The salt statues surrounding the blast area was evident of that. One in particular, held a blade, near the center.

 

Salt covered… everything.

 

The only thing remaining of Havria was a pile of salt in the center of the blast. Sitting in the clear center of the blast radius.

 

As a god, it should have been near impossible to have been killed by a mortal. Even Adepti couldn’t really kill a god on their own. For a mortal to be able to do so they would have had to a been trusted person. Enough to be able to approach close enough, with a weapon, to land a hit on a fatal enough spot.

 

It was tragic, to be betrayed by the ones you were sacrificing so much for in order to protect them.

 

“Let’s go.” Indarias placed a hand on her shoulder. “There are no more survivors, let’s report in.”

 

Bonanus turned from the scene to follow her sister. 

 

The walk back was silent. They had gotten everyone still alive out and they will seal off the area to help prevent more casualties until the dust settles. 

 

“Lady Guizhong.” Bonanus addressed the goddess upon returning to their hastily set up safety camp. “All survivors have been evacuated from Sal Terrae.”

 

“Thank you, General Chizapus, General Musatas.” Guizhong said as she looked over a map. “If you want you can either go assist Marshal Vritras or aid Streetward Rambler in the medical tent.”

 

The ground shook for a moment, no doubt it was Lord Morax using the full extent of his Geo powers.

 

“I will go help Bo.” Indarias decided. “Chi may be quiet right now, but anything can happen."

 

“Then I'll assist, Rambler.” Bonanus said. “I won’t be much help against Osial’s flood waters anyways.”

 

Lady Guizhong waved them off as she marked changes on the map.

 

The makeshift medical tent was in chaos. Mortals were sitting sullenly on small bedrolls and on the floor. Some were crying, others stared off into space. A few were deathly still were they laid on the ground.

 

The healer was near the back accessing the damage of one of the mortals.

 

“I’m here to help.” Bonanus told her. “Where do you want me to start?”

 

“Start with filling up buckets with water.” Rambler directed without looking up. “The pass out rags to everyone with only surface salt burns. Have them press soak the afflicted areas until blood starts to run then have them bandages the areas.” 

 

Bonanus did as she was told. Passing out water, rags, and bandages. Some soldiers were there to help keep the peace. They were starting to work on getting the less injured people to clear the tent and make their way to were others would escort them to the Assembly.

 

The work was easy, only needing to assist some people while treating them, until she was called over by Rambler. The older Adeptus was starting to work on those with missing limbs. 

 

“I need you to hold water on the stump and start washing away the salt.” Rambler explained, tying a rope tightly around the limb “Keep going until all the salt is gone, even as it starts bleeding.”

 

Bonanus did as Rambler instructed while the healer tied more ropes around the limbs of other mortals whose limbs disintegrated from the salt.

 

Things started to quiet down as the shock started wearing off and those who had finished tending to their wounds were escorted out to make more room.

 

“How is the little bird?” Bonanus asked, the silence that had fallen between them. “It’s been a while since I’ve seen him, is he liking his new name?”

 

“He’s as well as can be.” Rambler answered curtly. “He’s down with fever today, Cloud Retainer is sitting with him while I’m here.”

 

Rambler bit her lip as she focused on closing the wounds. Bonanus observed the older Adeptus. Rambler always held her patients a certain distance. The fighter turned healer had her reasons for it but she can fool her, there’s also a reason the Bonanus was in charge of the scouting teams.

 

“You're worried about him.” Bonanus noted, turning her attention back to the crumbling limbs, “It’s unusual for you to get close to younger Adepti”.

 

“Nonsense.” Rambler denied, turning her back to her. “He is simply my patient, my worry is within the realm of my job.”

 

“What’s wrong?” Bonanus asked, switching to a different person. “What happened?”

 

“I don’t know.” The healer admitted, tying off the last limb. “He’s avoiding food again, and is refusing to sleep if he can help it.”

 

Rambler shifts to sit next to her, cleaning her hands and pulls out her suture materials, dosing the needle and thread in alcohol. She starts to sew the ends closed.

 

“He was doing so well, and I’m aware that they’ll be back peddling on his progress.” She told the General. “But it’s not a physical wound I can work with, it's an injury of his mind, but because he doesn’t speak, I don’t know how to move forward without potentially pushing him over the edge.”

 

The healer took a pause in her rant to let out a breaths

 

“But if I don’t push, his body will give up on him.” Rambler’s hands shook as she tied the next stitch. “Especially if he refuses both ways to replenish his energy. I already talked to Marchocius about trying different foods, find something he’ll be willing to eat.”

 

“I’ll bring the idea to the others as well.” Bonanus said, really like the idea. “We love trying new foods, and it’ll help get him out of the room.”

 

“Thank you.” Rambler’s tone was grateful. “We can watch him as well to see if we can’t find the reason for his aversion.”

 

“It could be due to his Beast form?” Bonanus theories, “What kind of bird is he?

 

“I am unsure, he has yet to return to his beast form, no matter how low on energy he becomes.” Rambler washed her hands again, moving to the next injury. “I would be concerned, if that boy wasn’t so… hurt. I’ll bring it up to Cloud Retainer and see if she can’t convince him to transform.”

 

---

 

“Ganyu, make sure you keep an eye on Xiao while I step out.” Cloud Retainer instructed the young Qilin. “I’ll be not but a few moments.”

 

“Okwy!” The child mocked saluted as the crane left. “I’ll kewp watch.”

 

The door to the room closed and Ganyu climbed on to the bed to sit next to Niao. He was very warm as he curled towards her. 

 

She papped his hair with her small hands.

 

“Niao Niao!” She said to the older Adetpus. “Sleep!”

 

She placed her hands on his face, squishing his cheek into the pillows, causing him to grumble.

 

Ganyu knows that when you are sick, you need medicine and sleep. She knew he was a good boy and took his medicine, now it was naptime.

 

“I’ll keep the swary dreams away!” The older boy still did not close his eyes, even as she crawled across him. “I pwomise!”

 

Ganyu laid down next to him and got comfortable. Her fluffy hair ended up laid over parts of him as she settled herself.

 

“Like this.” She told him. “Then we close our eyes and nap!”

 

The little Qilin yawned, and closed her eyes. It wasn’t long before the girl was asleep.

 

She was asleep enough to miss the sudden shift in weight on the mattress as her new friend, disappeares in a puff of smoke.

Notes:

Muhawahaha, what do you think happened? Only I shall know until the next chapter.

Anyways I hope you all enjoyed it, it's been a while since I've done a split perspective for this story. Sorry for the delayed update, end of year always sucks and reveals new problems.

As always I appreciate any and all feed back, it lets me know how the story is going, how you guys are liking it, where i need to go back and edit or fix some things, etc.

See you next chapter.

Chapter 32

Notes:

Nope, you're not imagining it, it's actually another chapter.

Time to reveal what happened with Xiao.

I actually was so hyped to write this chapter due to the cliffhanger I left that this is probably the shortest time between updates yet.

Have fun.

After long hours everything was mostly settled.

 

New borders in place with soldiers and patrols to watch them. The refugees, injured or not, are transported to the Assembly to be situated later while they recover. Overall things could have gone a lot worse.

 

Now it was time to rest, finish off the day nice and easy.

 

Or so Rambler thought.

 

Upon returning to her teapot she immediately noted a nervous tension in the air. It put her on edge even though logically, Cloud Retainers would have sent for her if anything had happened.

 

Again. Or so she thought.

 

She found the crane digging through a closet, searching for something while a red faced, crying Ganyu sob nearby, the poor girl's hair a complete mess.

 

“What happened?”

 

The crane started at the tone of voice, being caught off guard at Rambler’s appearance.

 

“Xiao is missing.” Retainer admits with shame and guilt in her tone. “I had stepped out to switch out the water, and when I came back he was gone, I've been looking for the fledgling non stop .”

 

That… was not good, at all. 

 

“How long ago?” Rambler pinch her cabella, “and I was all the details.”

 

“A few hours maybe? Like I said, I had step out to refresh the water for his fever.” Retainer reiterated. “I told Ganyu to keep an eye on him, we have been trying to get him comfortable or relaxed enough to sleep, like you asked.”

 

Ganyu’s tears came back full force as Rambler gestured for the crane to continue.

 

“I was out of the room for mer moments. Upon returning, Ganyu was asleep, out like a light, and him, just gone.”

 

“Was there any elemental traces? Was the window open?” Rambler inquired, trying not to get upset. “As the beast he was known for teleportation using his powers.”

 

“No, to both.” Retainer answered. “I already combed the outside as soon as I couldn't find him in his room, twice.”

 

“Okay, okay.” Rambler placated. “Let’s calm down Ganyu and go over everything with new eyes. There’s a chance something was missed.”

 

The healer motioned the young Qilin over to her and started rubbing her back.

 

“It’s okay Ganyu, it’s not your fault. We’ll find him.” Rambler told the girl, trying to run her hand through her hair, only to be met with massive knots and tangles. “He’s here somewhere, he’s just… playing hide n’ seek right now, we don’t want him to win do we?”

 

Rambler set the girl in her sitting room and gave her some candy as her tears slowly stopped.

 

“Now stay right here while we look.” Rambler said. “He might pop out of anywhere, okay?”

 

With the child in front of them mostly taken care of, it was now time to find the other one. There no way he’s not somewhere in the teapot as she hasn’t yet shown him how to leave on his own. He would t have had enough energy to teleport across his bed, let alone out of the teapot itself, and if he had there would of been traces of energy, elements powers, and she would have sensed him.

 

There were several spells to alert Rambler of anyone arriving or leaving the realm. Partially due to some Adepti thinking they are above the laws of healing and the limits of their own bodies, and so she knows when someone potentially needs assistance or treatment.

 

Nothing alerted her so he was still here. Somewhere.

 

But the search yielded no results. No evidence of him ever leaving the room except for the face he just wasn't there. Not loose feathers, not footprints in the dirt, nothing out of place.

 

It was extremely unusual.

 

Even search through everything again resulted in the same outcome. Her teapot wasn’t especially big, with everything being on just one plate form.

 

“Trying searching for him in your beast form.” Rambler sighed out. “Check to see if he somehow got to a different platform. His powers could have fluctuated again and this was the result this time.”

 

The crane nodded, changing into her bird form and flew off. If all else fails, they’ll report the problem to Morax and Guizhong and hope they have a solution.

 

Rambler walked to the sitting room to check on Ganyu. The Half-Adeptus was crying again, but this time she had a brush in her hair, trying to brush out her knots.

 

“Would you like some help?” The healer offered, patting the spot next to her as she sat down. “That looks like it hurts.”

 

Ganyu ran to her and sat down in front of her. Rambler took care in removing the stuck brush from the usual fluffy white-ish hair. Once freed she started from the bottom. Brushing slowly and carefully tugging each tangle free. 

 

The problem was that there was a massive mess of knots in the middle of the hair. It was borderline matted. Qillins take great pride in having soft and fluffy coats and hair, so Ganyu having such a problem was unexpected, and no doubt uncomfortable.

 

“What in the world is with this knot?”

 

“I don’t kwow.” Ganyu kicked her legs while trying not to winch as Rambler tugged in the brush. “But it’s heavy.”

 

“Heavy?”

 

That wasn’t right. Mats and knots can be uncomfortable because they pull the hair at the scalp once they get too tangled, but it’s still just hair, it wouldn’t weigh that much different. But sure enough, lifting the mat up, there was some weight to it. Just heavy enough to be noticeable.

 

So… what…?

 

Rambler poked around the knot, gently pulling it making it come undone a bit and…

 

A bird leg fell out.

 

You have got to be kidding, Rambler thought.

 

She took a deep breath before parting pieces of hair to confirm it. Sure enough, a bird was in Ganyu’s hair, sound asleep.

 

“You know Ganyu.” Rambler chuckled, “I know the saying is ‘your hair looks like a bird’s nest’, but yours actually has a bird.”

 

Ganyu held still as Rambler parted and untangled the girl’s hair enough to remove their missing friend, setting him gently on a cushion.

 

“Niao, Niao!” 

 

“That’s right, we found him.” Rambler chuckled, finally able to untangle the rest of the hair. “It seems he was hiding right under our noses.”

 

Rambler booped the girl’s nose and set the brush aside as Ganyu shook her hair, enjoying its return to fluffiness.

 

Xiao must have transformed once he had fallen asleep and instinctively nestled into Ganyu’s soft hair, accidentally tangling it all up.

 

“Why don’t you go let Cloud Retainer know we found him, alright.” Rambler suggested, “and I’ll make sure he’s okay.”

 

The girl ran outside, allowing the healer to gauge the bird’s condition now that his beast form was revealed.

 

Grey, teal, and gold feathers cover a majority of his small body, with the wings still regrowing the… pins that the new feather would grow from. If she was remembering what Retainer told her about feather regrowth. Overall the beast form was untouched, only the biggest injuries still mark it from his other forms, being too big for the smaller feathers to fully cover. 

 

His body was incredibly skinny as well, not surprising, the tight skin made his body just out, the chest especially so. She’ll need to ask Cloud Retainer about that as it seems like an awkward spot for no fat or muscle.

 

Xiao was limp on the cushion. Breathing heavily and laying flat. He’s pushed his limits and his body is forcing him to stop. He was definitely a lot smaller then she was expecting, used to Retainer and Shaper’s massive Crane from.

 

Once they confirm the type of bird he is, they can hopefully kick his recovery back in the right direction.

 

For now, Rambler just picked up the cushion, and walked him back to his room, careful to not wake him up from the much needed sleep.

Notes:

Tada, I tricked you guys hehe.

I've had this idea since I've seen Genshin's deception of Qilins, they look like clouds and what better way to fall asleep than on a cloud.

Nah but really, Xiao's just tired and needs energy and was just doing what Ganyu was telling him.

As always let me know what you think.

Chapter 33

Notes:

First chapter of the new year!

It's a bit of a silly filler of nonsense to help me get to the next major part.

I hope you enjoy regardless.

Guizhong stared at the bird asleep on the cushion. He was so cute, if only his sleep was peaceful.

 

The goddess was having a small meeting with Rambler and Could Retainer to check in the Adeptus’ recovery while Morax took care of other issues.

 

“And is caused by a lack of muscle use.” Retainer pointed to the judging breast bone. “Some time and having him flap around will restore the lost muscles.”

 

The Adetpus in question was currently trembling and shifting as if he was having a nightmare. It… was harder to tell due to him currently being a bird.

 

“With luck this should be his last bout of his fever spiking.” Rambler finished off her exam report, “Now that he’s revealed his beast form, we should be able to cater to his needs better.”

 

“What kind of bird is he?” Guizhong asked, bringing her face down to the table to look more closely at him. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen one that looks like him before.”

 

“I can’t say for certain until his wing feathers grow back in full.” Cloud Retainer said, “but I believe he’s a type of Kite.”

 

“Kite?”

 

“Yes, a small bird of prey similar to hawks.” Retainer clarifies, “They are small, fast, and adaptable. Although with his plumage, it might be hard to fully identify his exact species.”

 

Cloud Retainer gently pulled at one of the wings, unfolding it from the body. The little bird jerked his sharp beak at her hand but the bite held no power. Xiao’s head dropped back down after the instinctive bite, still trapped in his nightmare.

 

“They’re built for speed and precision.” Retainer continued, gently folding the wing back. “It’s no wonder he had such stories around him.”

 

“So what do they eat?” Rambler asked, addressing her biggest concern. “Meat? Plants? Fish?”

 

“Anything and everything.” Retainer answered, “They prefer meat if they can get it but most aren’t picky eaters…”

 

“Anything else needed for their care?” Rambler asked, not expecting the broad answer. “Anything that will make them more comfortable?”

 

“Unfortunately not.” Retainer said, “like I said, they are pretty adaptable, they can live almost anywhere.”

 

“So his food problems aren't dietary problems.” Guizhong speculated, remembering Rambler’s report on his eating habits, “but his actions don’t match with someone who was starved either…”

 

“Agreed, I was expecting to have to work with him over eating himself sick, but…” Rambler trails off for a moment. “It’s the opposite, unless Ganyu is here eating with him, he practically refuses even the smallest amount of food.”

 

“It’s possible that food was used as a punishment.” Guizhong theorized. “It would explain everything.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Think about it.” Guizhong ran a finger down the back of Xiao’s neck. “Aversion and distrust of food, never eating until someone else eats, the dream flowers and rocks pulled from his stomach. The signs are all there.”

 

Xiao let out a quiet squak of alarm, wings flapping wildly as his nightmare awoke him. Feathers puffed up from around his neck as the bird tried to move off the cushion, presumably to hide. He was either too weak to move, or hadn’t realized his form changed as he trips over his own talons, crashing back into the cushion.

 

“Easy, Xiao, easy.” Rambler scooped him up, correcting his position. “You’re safe.”

 

Xiao laid there, breathing heavily as his gold eyes watched them. Guizhong was the subject of most of his stares as she and him had barely interacted while he was up and about.

 

“Rambler, I would like to try something.” Retainer piped up. “May I borrow something from your cold storage.”

 

“Go ahead.”

 

“Greetings, Xiao.” Guizhong leveled herself to the bird’s eyes. “I’m Guizhong, I work with Morax to run the Assembly. Nice to finally meet you.”

 

Xiao hissed at her and scooted back towards Rambler, his claws catching the fabric of the cushion. She didn’t know birds could hiss.

 

“Sorry Lady Guizhong.” Rambler apologized, replacing the exhausted bird back to his spot. “He’ll hopefully warm up to you.”

 

“It’s no problem.” Guizhong placates the healer, “I actually expect he won’t be as welcoming to me as he is with others.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Well… I’m a god, a female one at that, associated with a specific flower.” Guizhong listed. “To him, I probably reminded him heavily of Shǎndiàn.”

 

Xiao watched her every move from where he laid. As much as it saddened her, she understood that she would not be able to pass certain lines at the moment.

 

“I’m back.” Cloud Retainer struts in as her Crane form, a fish in her beak. “I want to try appealing to his instincts, more than his mind.”

 

As Retainer approached the table Xiao’s attention focused on her, perking up a bit. From what she heard, Xiao always seemed more at ease when the older bird was present, more so when she was actually a bird.

 

“With luck.” Cloud Retainer stepped right up to Xiao, “Instinct will override his fear of food to try and ease his hunger.”

 

Guizhong watched with a baited breath as the crane held the fish next to Xiao’s beak. After first nothing, but Retainer lightly tapping her beak against his changed it.

 

Xiao bit into the fish suddenly, tearing a chuck off. Guizhong watched with morbid fascination as the fish was devoured. Despite having little strength, Xiao had no problem ripping the fish to pieces and swallowing each bite.

 

Afterward the small bird settled back into the cushion. He didn’t go back to sleep, he just sat on the cushion, watching them, seemingly content with his meal.

 

“Well that worked.” Rambler noted, “One time I’m glad beast instincts take over.”

 

“He is still young.” Retainer banter, “I’m sure most of his actions have been fueled by self preservation instincts.”

 

The crane carded her beak through his head feathers, causing Xiao to trill. It was adorable. Guizhong once again fell to the temptation of petting him, only to be met with an open mouth hiss as he tried to bite her hand.

 

She pouted but relented, she’ll gain his trust in time, even if it’s just a little. For now, she’ll be content to see the little one heal, watching the two Adepti banter and discuss new plans and care for Xiao.

 

Her eyes darted back to the bird who laid his head down to rest.

 

Maybe

 

*hiss*

 

Nope, she can’t even sneak a quick pet.

Notes:

I'm on a roll updating three different stories, finishing one of them, at least five time in the last week, woo.

Anyways I hope you enjoyed Guizhong's silly petting nonsense.

As always I appreciate any feedback you can give me as it helps my writing improve.

See you next chapter, and feel free to check out some of my other stories.

Chapter 34

Notes:

Here's another chapter for you all.

Another filler chapter, I'm mostly using it to pass through background information.

with a little surprise at the end.

HEHEHEH

Morax watched the purple beam from across the ocean.

 

A new Archon was crowned. This time in Inazuma. Based on the energy on the winds, the Electro Archon. Another land, whose fight is finally over. Another God receiving the blessings of Celestia.

 

That makes three.

 

Three Gods in the thrones, three elements claimed, three nations freed from war. 

 

His fight was not over yet, not until he either perishes or claims the Geo seat.

 

Only time will tell them the results.

 

The world was changing at a rapid rate, even for the Adepti with longer lives. Soon the fight for Liyue would end, but not soon enough. With only three contenders left someone will give and the one who stands above, will be the one to determine the future of the land.

 

Chi started attacking the borders. The other dragon’s land has been locked in a perpetual snowstorm and no citizens outside his army has been seen since.

 

It made certain rumors more unsettling.

 

It worried Morax greatly, but was hardly a problem at the moment. There was little evidence to confirm anything at the moment and he had his own people to worry about.

 

Osial was also growing restless. Strong waves threatened the borders. New mountains springing up at his command to help block the water from reaching his own land. With no army to worry about however, Morax was content to ride barriers that only time will erode.

 

Dealing with new areas brings problems. Thankfully Havria’s land was fertile and bountiful, great for farming and raising crops. With no opposition at their backside, the God plans to utilize the land that once belong to Shǎndiàn. The land needed some work, but had the ability to grow, maybe they could even build a harbor that would grow after the world settled.

 

Morax turned away from the sea and back to his city. A meeting was being called to put plans in place. It was always good to be prepared for any situation.

 

With three claimed chairs, the gods, even in other nations, will feel the pressure. The question now is, who will crack, and who will stand strong.

 

It was peaceful upon entering the city. Mortals greeted him respectfully as they carried on with their daily task. It wasn’t that Morax was envious of their ability to just live in the moment. Must be due to their shorter lives. Guizhong understood the Mortals better than he did. Probably better than he ever will.

 

The rest of the walk was peaceful. Deceptively so. But war is always on the horizon, there is no avoiding it. He can only hope to prevent as many casualties as he can.

 

Speaking of casualties, his mind wandered to the young bird Adeptus. The one he named Xiao. He didn’t know why, but he felt a strange sort of connection with the little bird. They were in no way related, yet Morax felt a draw to him for some reason.

 

He’ll need to ask Guizhong about it. Maybe she understood what he was feeling and why he was feeling it. She always helped him understand what he was feeling.

 

Upon reaching the war room he was met by everyone out front, including some extra people.

 

The usual were there, the two other gods, and the four Generals. Rambler, of course, but she will not be a part of today’s meeting. This time however, Cloud Retainer would join them. As head of mechanical defense and planning.

 

Rambler was currently removing a bird from Retainer’s arms. Given the state of its wings, and the fact it was gripping onto Retainer’s robes, he can deduce that the bird, was Xiao. He watched in quiet amusement as the bird hissed and tried to bite anyone but the two ladies.

 

Morax could hardly blame the bird for acting on his animal instincts. Its those instincts that help keep you alive after all.

 

“I see Xiao is regaining his energy.” Morax stated, walking to them. “Would you like some assistance, Rambler?”

 

“No, I got it.” Rambler wrapped an arm around the bird and used her other one to carefully unlatch the claws. “For such a small thing, he is quite strong.”

 

“Let’s take it as a good sign.” Morax said, bringing his fingers to Xiao. “I take it he’s eating again?”

 

“That’s right, much to our relief.” Rambler reported as Xiao snapped his beak at his fingers. “It’s been mostly meat, to help appeal to the instincts, but today we are meeting up with Ganyu and her mother for lunch to hopefully try something new.”

 

Marchosius, every generous, pushed two bags of his usual sweets into Rambler’s bag before the bear-shaped god made his way into the war room.

 

“For the kids I assume. Enjoy the lunch.” Morax dismissed her, “We shall be going.”

 

Rambler gave him a small bow before leaving with Xiao in her arms. It was nice to see him act so normal, even if it’s only caused by instinct. 

 

Morax turned and followed the rest of the group into the room.

 

“Now then.” Morax addressed everyone once the door closed behind him. “Let’s start with current positions. Bosacious?”

 

“Our borders with Chi hold strong.” The Marshal answered seriously. “I feel he’s testing the new boundaries to find weak spots, but we have held firm, not letting any attacks, no matter how small, go unnoticed.”

 

“Menogias?”

 

“Water levels have stabilized and ceased rising.” The Geo Yaksha announced. “Osial has been quiet since shortly after Lady Havria’s demise, we are monitoring for any changes should they occur.”

 

“Bonanus? Any words from your scouts?”

 

“Nothing new.” She said, “We haven’t ventured into Chi’s territory itself but reports are all the same, snowstorms and soldiers.

 

“How are we on weapons and defenses?”

 

“Weapons are in steady supply.” Indarias replied, “No warrior is without a weapon or their backup.“

 

“As for defenses, all mechanical devices are functional and operating smoothly.” Cloud Retainer adjusted her glasses, “But most are becoming outdated, I propose we draw up some plans for something new.”

 

“Very well.” Morax agreed, “Confer with Lady Guizhong and present your ideas to me when you’re done.”

 

And so the meeting went. Discussing new strategies and tactics for potential scenarios. The stock of supply and plans to refill those running low. The utilization of the new land.

 

All rather boring, but necessary,

 

Morax relented when Guizhong demanded an area in the plains to plant her flower, in homage for Havria and her ideals. Marchosius gets the rest of it to plan out his new farms and orchards.

 

They were wrapping up the meeting when someone burst through the door. 

 

“Apologies, Lord Morax.” It was Mountain Shaper, “There’s been an incident.”

Notes:

What do you think happened? I'll give you a small hint if you want? who else would I be torturing?

Anyways, next chapter we shall be getting back into the drama and fluff and angst, not in that order.

As always all feedback is good feedback and helps me make the story better.

See you next chapter.

Chapter 35

Notes:

Time to see what happened with Xiao, HEHEHEH.

But seriously, I hope you enjoy this chapter, lots of twists you probably weren't expecting.

Enjoy~

Rambler ignored the looks of passersby as the bird in her arms screamed at her.

 

“Quiet down.” She poked his head, “We’re going to see Ganyu while Cloud Retainer is busy.”

 

Xiao huffed and tucked his head into her elbow. The healer shook her head at his pouting and kept walking towards where she was meeting Ganyu’s mother.

 

She had reached out to the grown Qilin after the accidental disappearance and made a request for a certain item to be made.

 

Rambler found the two Qilin in the pavilion quite easily, given how few Adepti were out for an early lunch.

 

“Thank you for meeting me, Zhiyu.” Rambler greeted as she took a seat, “I see Ganyu already got started, these are from Lord Marchosius.”

 

Rambler placed the bags of sweets on the table for Ganyu.

 

“Yes.” The older Qilin chuckles at her daughter stuffing food into her mouth, “You know her and her appetite. This must be the Niao Niao she’s mentioned.”

 

“Yes, but his name is actually Xiao.” Rambler clarifies, setting the grumpy bird next to a plate of meat. “He’s currently under my care.”

 

Xiao hissed at the older Qilin but it wasn’t as aggressive as usual as he looked between Ganyu and her mom.

 

“I think we’ve confused him.” Zhiyu chuckled as the bird kept looking between them before deciding to shuffle over to Ganyu, “He’s cute. I’ve heard he’s had a rough time, is he doing alright?”

 

“He’s getting there, we’re still working on some problems.” Rambler watched Ganyu give Xiao some of her food. “Which is why I asked you to make me that special pillow.”

 

“I’m sure there’s a story as to why it specifically had to be Qilin fur.” Zhiyu handed over a parcel, containing the requested item. “But you gave me a great excuse to get a haircut, so I’m happy to help.”

 

“Thank you.” Rambler sets the package to the side. “What do I owe you?”

 

“Absolutely nothing!” Zhiyu told her, taking a bite of her tofu dish. “I also heard, from Ganyu, that he ‘saved her from a meanie’, so think of it as a thank you gift.”

 

“Don’t know the full story of that incident?” Rambler inquired, taking a bit of her own food. “Or just what Ganyu told you.”

 

“Yes, Lady Guizhong made sure to inform me.” Zhiyu said, “That’s why I am more than happy to make something for the young one.”

 

“Thank you.” Rambler expressed, “Getting him to eat or sleep has been a challenge, so I’m trying to work with what makes it easier for him, and go from there.”

 

They ate in silence, watching Ganyu feed the bird.

 

“Why does he like my little Ganyu?.” Zhiyu questioned, enjoying the scene of the two. “It’s curious, in my opinion.”

 

“I don’t know.” Rambler leaned against the table. “Maybe she reminds him of someone he knew before. Maybe it’s because, to him, she can’t do any harm to him because she’s a kid.”

 

“Have they been able to find any family?” The Qilin asked, “Surely there’s someone left for him, right?”

 

“They found a location a while ago that seemed like his home.” Rambler sighed sadly, “However it was empty, and the nearby village was burned and buried over time. Nothing remains.”

 

“That doesn’t mean there isn’t still someone out there.” Zhiyu pointed her chopsticks at the healer. “A mother, a father, a sibling even, right?”

 

“No.” Rambler shook her head, “We would’ve heard rumors, or they would’ve found their way here, there’s nothing to suggest otherwise.”

 

“Hmmm.” The Qilin rested her head in her hands. “That’s unfortunate… Ohh maybe I can take him!”

 

“I’m afraid you might need to fight Cloud Retainer first, she’s become surprisingly motherly to him.” Rambler chuckled out, “And maybe Bonanus, she’s part of the reason we even knew he wasn’t what the rumors said, she’s been very welcoming to him.”

 

“I’ll take my chances.” Zhiyu wasn’t detoured, “I have Ganyu’s favor.”

 

They both watch Ganyu move onto the bags of sweets, stuffing one into her mouth and another into Xiao’s beak.

 

“Mind if I join you?” It was Mountain Shaper who came up to join them. “I see the little bird is out and about again.”

 

“Feel free.” Zhiyu gestured to the spot next to them. “We’re just gossiping.“

 

Rambler tuned out the conversation for a moment. She was watching Xiao, frowning. For some reason he wasn’t moving, yet nothing had changed in the moment. Ganyu was still eating sweets and trying to offer him another but consumed it instead when she saw his sweet still in his beak.

 

“Rambler?” Zhiyu said , “What’s wrong?”

 

Rambler didn’t answer as she saw Xiao’s breathing pick up. Before she knew it, Xiao stepped back, falling off the table. He flapped his wings, claws scrambling for purchase in whatever he could grab, catching Ganyu’s arm.

 

“Crap!”

 

Rambler moved forward as Ganyu started crying, startled by Xiao’s sudden reaction and because she was now bleeding.

 

Xiao landed on the ground, the sweet falling from his beak as he tried to back away from everyone. Screeching and hissing at everything that moved as he continued to back up. This was a problem, even small, he can be dangerous.

 

“Mountain Shaper.” Rambler kept her focus on the panicking bird. “Please go find Lord Morax, I don’t know what happened and he’s the best at stopping him from hurting himself.”

 

The Crane nodded and took off. Rambler carefully pulled the sobbing Ganyu further away from Xiao and into her Mother’s arms.

 

In that time Xiao tripped over himself and suddenly transformed into his human form. Pressing himself against a stone wall. Golden eyes wide sharp with fear fueled aggression and drool dripping from his chin. Growling at everyone who was too close.

 

She knew it wasn’t Ganyu who set him off, the young girl was the only one he let past his boundaries and he would never hurt her on purpose.

 

Rambler’s eyes landed on the sweet that fell from his mouth. He’s never had a reaction to any particular food other than flat out rejecting it, but this was the first time he had any sweets to her knowledge.

 

“Is she okay?” Rambler asked Zhiyu, referring to the three bleeding claw marks on Ganyu’s arm, never taking her eyes off Xiao fully. “How bad is it?”

 

“Not serious.” Zhiyu's steady voice replied, “Just flesh wounds, barely even scratches, not even bleeding that much.”

 

Rambler picked up the fallen treat, Xiao’s eyes narrowed as she did, and looked it over. The sweet looks like the Stove God’s usual. Nothing was off, not the color, nor the smell. She would never doubt Marchosius, but she gave the treat a taste, licking its cleaner side. Tasted like it usually does, just sweet. Nothing unusual.

 

So what was it?

 

Was it the taste? The texture? Or something else entirely?

 

“Xiao.” Rambler addresses the boy. “What happened? Can you tell me?”

 

The healer was met with louder growls as she stepped closer, his eyes focusing on her.

 

“Work with me, what’s wrong?” Rambler tried again, taking another step. “How can I help?”

 

Xiao lunged forward, arm ready to strike her. Rambler braced for the hit but it never came as two pairs of arms shot out from behind the young Adeptus, wrapping around the small form, trapping him against a much larger person.

Notes:

So what did you think? I think I set this up nicely.

Also I hope the 'gossiping parents' was written acutely as I don't really gossip in real life.

Also 'Zhiyu' is not the canon name for Ganyu's mom, we don't even know if Ganyu's mom is the Adeptus half of her anyways, I felty like she needed as name while taking main stage in this chapter, let me know what you think.

As always, all feedback is good feedback.

See you next chapter. HEHEHEHEH

Chapter 36

Notes:

Yay, new chapter.

Heheheheheheh.

Angst... Lots of angsts.

I hope you enjoy.

He didn’t know what happened.

 

His mind went blank the moment he tasted whatever Ganyu fed him. His mouth watered at the taste of the sweetness.

 

You can’t trust them.

 

He had to get away. He… can’t fly. His wings were useless to him as he felt his panic rise.

 

He… he… he slips, taking a step back.

 

His claws caught something in his attempt to catch himself, but they didn’t hold, and he landed on the ground. The sweet was knocked from his beak.

 

He… ran, tripping over himself, unused to moving in this form. It was good for hiding… but he didn’t need to hide.

 

They’re going to hurt you.

 

He felt his body shift as he prepared to fight, he always fought when he tastes the sweetness. He had to get away, but there was a wall, he didn’t want to hurt them.

 

He saw Rambler step towards him as he pressed himself against the wall, growling louder to hopefully get her to back away.

 

But she didn’t. She picked up the thing that was in his mouth, making him growl more, hoping she’d drop it… and licked it…

 

It caught him off guard. But then she turned to him directly, addressing him, getting closer… and closer…

 

They’re going to use you.

 

He… he needs them to leave, he…he… attacked.

 

He didn’t know what else to do.

 

He lunged forward ready to strike, hoping to scare them off like he does with everyone else, but she braced.

 

Why doesn’t she run?

 

Something wrapped around his torso, trapping one arm, and another grabbed his other arm, halting the attack. He froze when his back was pressed against something, no… someone. Someone with Electro energy.

 

Run away, run away.

 

His breathing picked up and he started to struggle in the hold. It wasn’t Rambler, she was in front of him… and it was Master and his coils of tail.

 

He managed to move enough to bite one of the hands, causing it to let go of him, but another replaced its hold.

 

He bit again, hard, and another hand left only to be replaced by another.

 

“Ow, hey! Stop that.” A new voice rumbled out, “Just calm down!”

 

He put more of a struggle, twisting, wiggling, and biting at the hands more aggressively. He wanted to be let go.

 

“Keep it up, Kid.” The rumbley voice told him. “I have four hands, I can do this all day.”

 

He was getting tired. His attempts were losing power. He tried to teleport out of the grasp, but as the wisps of wind came to his aid, all of his energy drained. 

 

He… gives up, and stops fighting, going limp. He waited for himself to get lost to the haze of red, hoping the one holding him could stop him.

 

But it never came.

 

“H-hey.” The one holding him said. “You okay?”

 

He didn’t know, so he didn’t answer. Confusion filled him. Why did the sweet thing not cause a haze this time? Was it not made with the flowers?

 

They’re trying to trick you.

 

The hands holding him shifted. They were rough and firm, yet held him carefully, not causing any pain.

 

Xiao looked up to see who was holding him and was met with a scarred face and green eyes full of concern.

 

“Xiao.” A soft hand on his face startled him as I moved his face. “Look at me, please.”

 

It was Rambler. She also looked concerned.

 

Why?

 

His head was hurting. Too many confusing thoughts.

 

They’re trying to trick you.

 

“Bosacius here is going to set you down alright.” She gestured to the one holding him. “Do you remember him? He’s helped you before, during your bath.”

 

He… doesn’t.

 

The big man, Bosacius, gently set him on the ground. His legs wouldn’t hold him so he ended up on his knees.

 

“Does anything hurt?” The healer poked and prodded a bit. “You didn’t hurt your back when you fell right?”

 

Xiao only blinked at her… he tried to attack her… why… why was she still trying to… he didn’t understand.

 

He looked away. Letting her do what she wanted. His eyes landed on Ganyu, she was crying… he must have scared her.

 

He didn’t mean too.

 

No…

 

You’re a monster.

 

Xiao’s eyes caught the sight of red on Ganyu’s arm. Three marks from what he could see. Three… claw marks. He felt his body freeze again…

 

He hurt her.

 

He hurt Ganyu.

 

Rambler suddenly blocked his view of the younger girl, running a hand repeatedly up and down his back. He didn’t like it.

 

“It’s okay, Xiao.” Rambler told him. “They’re just scratches, she’s more scared than hurt.”

 

Lies.

 

It didn’t matter. He hurt her. He… he needs punishment. He needs to be hurt. He has no right to hurt anyone among his Master rank, especially without orders.

 

He felt Geo energy nearby.

 

Xiao’s eyes bolted around. His Master, along with others, were watching from a distance. He made eye contact with his Master’s eyes. Nothing was revealed, his eyes were as stony and blank as his face.

 

The contact was broken when Morax stepped forward. His Master spoke words to Rambler, he did not listen. Xiao looked down at the ground.

 

He felt cold as they talked. What should he do? He didn’t know what punishments Morax handed out nor did he know how he would enact the punishments.

 

You deserve it. You have always deserved it.

 

Xiao pulled away from the healer’s touch. Crawling forward and presented himself on his knees, face in the dirt. There was no point in trying to run. He had no doubt that the God would be able to find him.

 

Xiao would accept whatever fate Morax decides. He waited, trying not to shake. He knows he did wrong. A hand touched his shoulder, making him flinch and freeze.

 

“Xiao.” His Master said. “Please look at me.”

 

Xiao gulped but raised his head. His Master was on a knee, he neither looked angry nor upset. His face betrayed nothing.

 

“Xiao.” He Master started. “What happened here was an accident. Do you understand?”

 

He did not respond. Some questions were not meant to be answered, but he did not understand. It happened because it was him.

 

“Xiao.” His Master called his attention again. “Xiao, do you expect to be punished for something that was an accident?”

 

He looked down. That seemed to be enough of an answer for his master. His Master let out a sign and put his other hand on the untouched shoulder .

 

“You are not going to be punished.”

 

Xiao almost believed him. His eyes burned and felt wet. He pulled away from his Master’s hands and dropped himself back to the ground. His head hit the dirt hard but he didn’t care, he shook his head.

 

He needed to be punished.

 

He… needs to.

 

You deserve it.

 

He… he deserves it.

 

He chose to ignore the hand when it returned to his shoulder. He refused to lift his head again. Only rubbing it into the dirt as he shook his head.

 

He needs to be punished for being the monster he is.

Notes:

I hope you enjoyed Xiao's self deprecation. It was a bit of a struggle to write but I think I got it to work. And before anyone asks, yes Xiao mentally addressing himself as 'he' and 'Xiao' is on purpose as he is subconsciously accepting his name.

As always I appreciate all kinds of feed back because it helps me understand how my story is flowing and to improve my writing.

See you later.

P.S. ... those italicized 'thoughts' aren't thoughts, that's be the only hint about that however (maybe)

heheheheheheheh

Chapter 37

Notes:

New chapter yay.

I would have gotten it out sooner but I ended up getting violently sick for a few days for no known reason. I'm thankfully doing much better now.

Anyways, time for the chapter.

Morax didn’t know what to do. The young Adeptus wouldn’t stop shaking his head or leave his full body bow.

 

He thought Xiao would be happy to be told he wouldn’t get a punishment, despite expecting it. Xiao simply either didn’t believe him, or think he deserved it, and any attempt to tell him otherwise, or to get him off the ground, was proving futile.

 

“Guizhong…” Morax gestured the Goddess over, “What should I do?”

 

Guizhong said nothing at first as she studied the prone Adeptus. Her face was hard to read, which was unusual for the Goddess. She was the best to have to advise the situation, she was always so understanding and gentle with everything.

 

“I think.” Guizhong started, hesitantly. “He needs a punishment.”

 

“What do you mean?” Morax was confused at her emphasis on the matter. “I don’t understand.”

 

“This is not a matter of you simply forgiving him.” Guizhong explained, “but a matter of him needing to be punished for himself, because he did not fail to do some, but rather he thinks he caused a problem by his own actions, one that he will not forgive himself for unless he’s punished.”

 

“I see…” Morax took in the explanation, it made sense in a way. “But I made a contract with myself that no harm shall befall him under my care while he is still healing.”

 

“That’s okay.” Guizhong smiled at him. “After all, not all punishments need pain or harm, want me to take care of it?”

 

Morax gave her a nod and stepped back. He was curious about what she was planning, knowing that Xiao doesn’t like her. He watched and she knelt down in front of him.

 

“Xiao.” She started calmly but firmly, causing the boy to flinch. “Look at me please.”

 

Xiao straightened up immediately. He sat perfectly still. His face was a mess, mud from dirt mixing with his tears covered his face and a red spot decorated his forehead from where he smashed it into the ground. Dirt covered his clothes from where he was bowing.

 

“Xiao, I’m going to give you a punishment now, okay?”

 

Xiao seems to freeze. Watching Guizhong with fearful golden eyes as she reached her hands out. He closed his eyes, probably expecting something else, but Guizhong gently pulled the young Adeptus into a hug and spoke directly into his ear.

 

“Xiao, this punishment will be handled by Streetward Rambler, unless it otherwise causes you harm to your being, mind, or soul, you are to do whatever she asks of you.” Guizhong said. “If she puts food in front of you, you eat as much as you can, unless you are aware it will make you sick. If she asks you to baths, you will bathe to your comfort level. If she asks you to do silly stretches, you will.”

 

Xiao got a look of confusion on his face as he listened, but otherwise made no motion of complaint.

 

“Your punishment is to be taken care of, with no complaint, until you are fully healed and can make your own choices.” Guizhong pulled away from the hug, keeping her hands on his shoulders. “Any punishment from failing to do this will be up to Rambler, but will not result in any harm to you. Do you understand?”

 

Xiao said nothing, answering with a nod. Guizhong smiled at him, making him flinch a little and stood up, putting some distance between herself and Xiao. Xiao himself shifted himself and bowed to Rambler, who got an awkward look in her face when he did that.

 

“Alright, up you come.” Rambler gently pulled Xiao up by his arm. “Now that we have all calmed down, I think it is time for a bath.”

 

Xiao’s legs trembled below him before he fell back onto his knees. Ramble help pull him up again but the Adeptus was too frazzled to walk.

 

“Bosacius.” Rambler sighed out, “Can you carry him for me please?”

 

“Of course.” Bosacius picked Xiao up again with two of his arms, making sure he was steady and tucked against him. “Maybe we all can go get baths? It’s been a while for me, and maybe it will make him more comfortable.”

 

“That’s a great idea!” Bonanus popped over, excited. “Indarias and I were going to the baths later anyways.”

 

“Would you like to join us?” Rambler addressed the Qilin watching the generals start talking. “I’m sure Ganyu will appreciate a nice bath.”

 

“No, that's alright.” Lady Zhiyu said, Ganyu in her arms sucking on a candy, face still red from the incident. “I’ll clean her up at home, I think it’s time for her nap.”

 

“Very well.” Rambler allowed the Qilin to leave. “Off to the baths we go.”

 

They took a moment to clean up the uneaten food, Morax spotted Rambler picking up a parcel and a bag of candies before leading the way to the public Adepti baths.

 

Three very large baths near the back of the Assembly hall for Adepti to enjoy in any form. They were separated for male and female and for those who did not care. They were simple but grand, made from a natural spring.

 

Bosacius carried Xiao into the men’s bath without hesitation, Menogias following him.

 

“Do you need any further assistance?” Morax asks Rambler. “I’ll be more than welcomed to stay and help.”

 

“No, I think I can handle it from here.” Rambler said as a clanging sound was heard inside the changing room and Xiao came out, looking frightened. “Unless the boys scare him.”

 

The healer let out a sigh and was about to go grab Xiao but Indarias beat her to him. 

 

“We’ll take care of it.” The Pryo Yaksha said, leading Xiao into the ladies’ side, “Right Bon?”

 

The two Yaksha dragged the boy in with them with a series of giggles. Xiao was in there for maybe less time before he practically crawled out, a bit dazed and red in the face. Running over to them and hiding behind Morax, peeking out to see if the ladies would try to drag him back into the changing room.

 

“Honestly.” Rambler stamped her foot, “I need him to relax, not be on edge again.”

 

“How about Morax takes him to his private bath?” Guizhong suggested with a small chuckle. “That way if anything happens he’ll be right there to stop it?”

 

Morax didn’t know about that idea himself. While he wasn’t opposed to offering a helping hand, he was hardly the best one for the job. He took a peek at the young Adeptus hiding behind him, he wasn’t sure if Xiao was up for the idea either.

 

“No, I can handle it.” Rambler sighed out, “It should be easier this time.”

 

“Oh come one.” Guizhong slung herself over Rambler’s shoulders, “I think you need a proper break before you take up handling his ‘punishment’.”

 

The Goddess didn’t let anyone else have a say and she started pushing Rambler away saying “They’ll be fine.” Leaving both the God and the Adeptus looking at each other confused.

 

“Right.” Morax cleared his throat. “This way.”

 

Morax turned on his heel and took a few steps forward, making sure Xiao was following before he made his way to his room.

 

Xiao kept a hand clenched on the back of his robes as they walked, Morax took extra care to make sure his steps weren’t too big that the boy couldn’t keep up.

 

The short walk was filled with silence, even upon reaching the destination. Xiao kept looking around with curiosity in his eyes, but made no move to stray from Morax.

 

Tension returned to Xiao upon entering Morax’s private chambers but not fear, which Morax was thankful for. He led the boy to the bath room, were the golden bath was waiting for them, filled with hot steamy water.

 

The tension in Xiao’s body only got worse at the sight, but he made no move to run. He simply just crouched down, hugging his knees, as if trying to hide himself.

 

Morax suddenly doubted his ability to do this.

Notes:

Hope you enjoyed it, next chapter will be another Xiao POV. I've actually been wanting to write this part for a while, so The next chapter might be out sooner than expected.

As always all feedback is good feedback.

Also this will be your only warning, the angst will come back hard, don't trust the fluff. It may not be soon, or it may be, depends on the flow of the story.

HEHEHEHEH

Chapter 38

Notes:

Welp. Here's the next, way earlier then I expected. I couldn't sleep.

Enjoy the fluffy angst in the tub with a side of chicken noodle soup.

hehehe

Double updates for you guys.

Xiao was extremely… confused.

 

He was being punished… but not being hurt…?

 

He’s never had a punishment like it before… The only thing he was familiar with was the knowledge food was involved.

 

A hand wrapped around his arm and lifted him up. It was firm, but not painful. He needs to walk, but his legs refused, even in the second attempt.

 

Xiao gulp, thinking he was already messing up the punishment but he was simply picked up by the four-armed one. Around him were people he’s met before. The blue one, the Pryo one, Menogias, Master, and the Goddess who smells like flowers and dust…

 

The one who gave him the punishment…

 

No one seemed upset with him and they all cleaned up his mess before being carried off.

 

Rambler said something about a bath. She’s mentioned that word before, but he doesn’t know what a bath was, or remembers the one he supposedly got before but it was his punishment to do what she said.

 

Everyone stopped except the one carrying him and Menogias. The purple one set him down before the two started stripping their clothes.

 

Is he also supposed to do that?

 

Before he could think about it something went flying over his head, startling him. He watched as the purple one threw white pieces of cloth at Menogias, one snagging pan, causing it to fall and clatter on the ground. 

 

Xiao ran. The noise scared him, he didn’t want to get in trouble again.

 

Once outside again, he didn’t get to do anything before the blue one and the Pyro one dragged him into another, similar room.

 

They also started removing their clothes. He was… uncomfortable with it. They giggled and pulled him around, hugging him while they talked.

 

His face felt hot.

 

When he got a moment, he snuck away. He didn’t care if it would result in punishment. Exiting the room he went straight to his Master. He… he knew his Master was calm.

 

They were talking about him. Xiao looked up. The Goddess was pushing Rambler away, causing fear to spike through him. Did he get the healer in trouble? Was he in trouble and Master was finally dealing with him?

 

Xiao glanced at his Master, but he looked just as confused as he felt. He looked back at the Goddess and the healer. He didn’t see or feel any fear between them.

 

Master cleared his throat, getting his attention.

 

“This way.”

 

His Master took a few step, dragging him along because he was still grabbing his robes, but he didn’t seem to mind as he kept moving.

 

Xiao didn’t know where he was going now. He looked around but he didn’t recognize anything around him.

 

This was all new.

 

They stopped in front of a glowing doorway, when Master touched it, the glow shimmered away revealing a… bedroom. Xiao tensed. He remembers stories told by other prisoners, ones who did not last as long as he did, about being brought to a Master’s bedroom. He didn’t understand everything that was said to him, but he knew it wasn’t good. 

 

But they went toward a door to the side. Inside was a pool of water… A very big pool of water.

 

Xiao didn’t like water, he is not a water bird, like Crane Mother. Water would only weigh him down, which will kill him. He crouched down, hoping he wouldn’t have to go into the water, that a bath involved something else.

 

“Xiao.” His head jerked up when his Master touched his shoulder. “It’s alright, just do what I do.”

 

Xiao stared into his Master’s eyes. He found no dishonesty, or ill-will, just like last time.

 

So he watched. 

 

Master began to take off his clothes, folding the pieces nice and neatly on a table near the wall of the room before wrapping a white piece of cloth around his bare waist.

 

His Master handed him his own white cloth and waited for Xiao to copy him. Xiao pulled at his shirt until it was off, folding it like he had seen. His pants too. He tied the cloth around him and looked at his clothes. They were dirty and not as neatly folded as his Master’s.

 

“Good job.” His Master placed a hand on his head that he flinched away from, “Now we come over here.”

 

He was led to a shallow pool of water with a metal pan resting on the edge. His Master picked up the pan, and scoop up water, pouring it over his own head, he took a white bar and rubbed it in his hands. Bubbles appeared, Xiao was confused and maybe amazed, where had they come from?

 

His Master rubbed the bubbles all over him before picking up another scoop of water and washing them all away.

 

“Now your turn.”

 

Xiao hesitated before quickly dumping water on himself. He sputtered as water got into his nose. His Master handed him the bar and Xiao rubbed it between his hands just like his Master did.

 

To his surprise, he also made bubbles. He showed them to his Master, who chuckled, and copied the action of rubbing his body. They tingled against his skin, causing him to freeze for a moment. The last time he felt tingles he was getting punished by his old Master, but Xiao decided this was a good tingle. It didn’t hurt and it got the dirt off him.

 

He rinsed them off with the second scoop of water, this time keeping his nose down, not wanting to get water in his nose again.

 

“Good job.” His Master praised again, this time not touching his head. “Now one final step.”

 

The God made his way to the edge of the big pool of water and took a few steps in. Xiao froze, watching his Master watch him. 

 

“It’s alright Xiao.” His Master smiled at him, “Come here.”

 

He hesitatingly made his way to the edge of the pool, hoping that was enough.

 

It wasn’t.

 

“Come on, Xiao.” His Master held out his hands. “This is the most important part, I’ll help.”

 

Xiao forced himself into the water. Standing only in the first submerged step. This was fine. On the second step he latched onto Morax’s arm. He was not okay with this. On the third step, he slipped, sending his head below the water. 

 

He clawed at the surface, grabbing into Morax and scrambling up to his shoulders, hugging the God’s head as he coughed out the water he inhaled.

 

“Easy, Xiao.” His Master moved back closer to the edge. “Let’s try that again.”

 

His Master pulled him off his head and set him back in the first step.

 

“This time.” Morax held his arms as much as Xiao was holding his, “I want you to relax, I won’t let you drown, I promise.”

 

Morax took a step back, forcing Xiao back to the second step.

 

“Just relax.” Morax told him, “Just let yourself float, I’ll keep you up.”

 

Xiao couldn’t do it as he ended up on the third step. The fourth step he could no longer reach the bottom. He panicked but Morax kept his promise, his head didn’t fall below the water.

 

“Just float.” Morax repeated, pulling him around in the water, “That’s what makes this step the most important, it’s to help you relax.”

 

Xiao tried. He really did, but he couldn’t, and Morax could tell. The God dragged him back to the steps.

 

“It’s okay if it’s too much right now.” His Master let him stand again. “You did good. You can just sit here on the steps if you want.”

 

Xiao did just that, keeping a grip on the edge of the pool and watching his Master drift away. His heart jumps when Morax disappears under the water. Xiao waited. A big scaly head popped out of the water, scaring him. It was his Master’s beast form.

 

Xiao watched as the Geo Dragon just floated in the water, eyes closed, letting his long body move with the water. Xiao let the water splash against his arms. He couldn’t help but keep his eyes on the dragon. His Master seems… at ease?

 

His Master’s eye peek at him before his head disappears under the water again. Xiao waited. His head popped up right in front of him. His Master snorted a mist at him with his muzzle, making him whine at the sudden chill it brought.

 

Xiao turned away and leaned against the edge of the bath. He didn’t know how long he had to stay in the water. He’ll admit it felt nice. It was warm. He closed his eyes, resting his head in his arms.

 

What was it his Master told him? Just float? He didn’t know how to do that, but he did try again, to relax. He just didn’t know how.

 

So he sat there at the edge, letting the warmth surround him.

Notes:

Hehehe, I hope you enjoyed the soup.

I figured since most birds who are not water birds would get weighed down which can lead them either getting attacked or drowning if they are unable to make it to a dry place. (please correct me if I'm wrong) So Xiao gets a small fear of water.

As always, All feedback is good feedback so let me know what you think.

Chapter 39

Notes:

Here's some after bath fluff... kinda...?

I was mainly bullshitting this chapter so I can set up the next few parts.

Hope you like it regardless.

Rambler let out a breath as she made her way back down the halls.

 

She had decided to entertain Guizhong’s request for a break, following the Goddess out to her flower fields and promptly, fell asleep. Rambler blames Guizhong for playing her Guqin in such a soothing way.

 

For the flowers of course.

 

When she had woken up, the sun was setting and she was surrounded by the blooming flowers. Rambler will admit, it was a nice nap, but now she has no idea where her patient was.

 

Or Morax for that matter.

 

Logically, she went straight to Morax’s abode. It was the last place she knew where the two should have been, and if they weren’t, then it would be the best place to start. To her luck, as soon as she stepped in front of the glowing barrier, it shimmered away, allowing her to enter.

 

Rambler stepped into the room and was greeting by quite the sight.

 

On the bed was Morax, coiled up in his dragon form, and in his mane of Qilin fur, was Xiao. The boy was curled up under the fur, hands entangled in it, fast asleep.

 

Morax had dressed him in a simple silk two-piece Hanfu to keep his modesty, tied to his person with a matching strip of fabric. Based on the size and color, it was one of Morax’s. The boy was swimming in the excess fabric, making him look smaller than he was.

 

“I see someone’s comfortable.” Rambler commented. “How long have you been like this?”

 

“Since after the bath.” The dragon softly rumbled, as if to not disturb Xiao, “He fell asleep and I went to set him on side… but he wouldn’t let go.”

 

“I’ll help get him off.”

 

“He doesn’t like water.” Morax informed her as she climbed into the bed, “He was hesitant to enter the water, and the second water went over his head he freaked out a little.”

 

“How so?” Rambler questioned as she pried one hand off the fur. “Did he have another panic attack?”

 

“No.” The dragon stated, pulling his head away once his fur was freed, “It was more akin to someone who can’t swim, even climbed onto me after he went under.”

 

“Well it’s nice to see him starting to trust you.” Rambler said as Morax carefully moved off the bed, returning to human form. “I’ll keep it in mind for future baths.”

 

They let Xiao sleep were he laid while they talked. They didn’t talk about much this time, outside of potential plans and ideas to get Xiao more socialized, at least with the other Adepti.

 

“We’ll also need to start on his physical therapy.” Rambler concluded when Xiao started stirring. “At least for his wings.”

 

“Do you have a plan?”

 

“Yes, Could Retainer and Mountain Shaper have agreed to help.” Rambler explained, watching Xiao blink up at her. “They’ll let me study how their own wings work in order to better understand how to help his. Both in full beast and half beast form.”

 

Their conversation halted as Xiao scrambled to his knees once he registered that she was there. He looked her over before crawling to her, almost slipping off the bed.

 

“It’s okay Xiao.” Knowing exactly what his thoughts were at the moment, “Lady Guizhong would never hurt someone.”

 

She knew he didn’t believe her but let the bird check her over anyways.

 

“With luck.” Rambler turned back toe Morax. “He’ll start exhibiting signs he’s healing mentally as well, Lady Guizhong was telling me about while we were out.”

 

“Such as?” Morax asked, sitting back down on the bed. “So I’m aware of the matter.”

 

“He’ll start throwing tantrums and fighting against your authority.” Rambler explained. “He’ll be angry and upset but it's to test your boundaries, and confirmation to himself that trusting you is alright.”

 

“Very well.” Morax nodded, “I let you be on your way now that he’s up.”

 

“Oh? You have somewhere to be today?”

 

“I always have somewhere to be.” Morax ignored her teasing, “A mortal requested a meeting, I had to reschedule it to tomorrow, but I need to catch up on the other matters.”

 

“Now.” Rambler turned to Xiao, “Can you walk? Or do you need me to carry you?”

 

Xiao's face gained a red tint as he scrambled to his feet, he tripped over the length of the pants but otherwise stayed standing. Rambler chuckled as she bowed goodbye to Morax and led the boy out.

 

It was a quiet walk back to the Teapot, and he clung to her clothes as he tripped occasionally. She’ll make a note to get him some proper clothes that fit him.

 

Rambler set some food in front of him, some simple grilled fish, and told him to eat. Thankfully the boy did as asked, albeit slow and hesitant.

 

She didn’t know how to feel about his care being associated with punishments but whatever Guizhong had in mind seems to be working so far.

 

Hopefully she won’t have to give out other punishments, she wouldn’t know what to do if he doesn’t follow the terms. Chores could work, she supposed, but they aren’t really punishments.

 

Rambler helped Xiao change into more fitting clothes before helping him to bed, with his new Qilin fur blanket and pillow.

 

It’s supposed to be something he doesn’t like doing. Like being near Guizhong.

 

Oh! That was an idea she could work with.

 

She left Xiao in his room, she had other matters to attend to like making sure all her herbs were stocked and good to use when needed. Rambler also needed a list of other supplies, and to set a date for the young Adeptus to get his stitches out. He’ll be almost fully physically healed soon.

 

---

 

“So when shall we strike?” The small shadow whispered, “What are we waiting for?”

 

“Osial’s response.” The other, taller, shadow answered, “Also waiting to see if my little pawn gained something.”

 

“Are you not worried that Morax will win his loyalty?”

 

“Worry not.” The tall shadow said, “His physical chains may be gone, but the ones attached to his spirit are not. He’ll come when I call, whether he wants to or not, Shǎndiàn and I made sure of that.”

 

The tall shadow chuckled as it watched a storm grow in the horizon. 

 

“Plus, it’s more fun to break things that others build anyways.”

 

---

 

Xiao jerked awake, he didn’t remember falling asleep but the echoes of dark laughter could still be heard in his ears.

 

He was tired of having those dreams. Hearing the whispers of voices in his ear during the day didn’t help either. It felt like his dreams were bleeding into reality.

 

He sat up in the bed and listened for movement outside his room. When he didn’t hear Rambler nearby he scooted over to the table next to the bed, and pulled open the draw.

 

Xiao knows that Rambler and his Master know what is in there, but every time he checks, nothing’s been moved. He dug around in the drawer, feather drifting to the side as he pulled out the small glowing teal gem that was sitting next to the brown scale.

 

He doesn’t remember when or where he got it from, just that it appeared one day, and it’s been his one treasure ever since, his own little secret from his former Master.

 

He held it close to himself as he laid back down. He was… happy that Morax hadn’t taken it away from him.

 

At some point, he drifted back to sleep, holding the gem in his hand.

Notes:

Heheheh, Here's some impending doom and the fact I did not, in fact, forget about his Vision. (I swear I didn't I just haven't had reason to pull it back into focus.)

Anyways, Hope you enjoy, next chapter is chapter 40, this is THE longest story I have ever written and I'm glad you all are enjoying it so much,

Let me know what you think and I'll see you next chapter.

Chapter 40

Notes:

The long awaited chapter 40, let there be snow.

Just so you guys know, I hadn't planned for the story to be this long, but you all love the details and the angsty fluff I just kept going and going, what was originally going to be maybe 30 chapters is turning to something that might end up as 100 chapters.

So Enjoy.

(Note: chapter was mainly based on Xiao's voice line about snow and one other thing I already put in the story, let's see who can figure it out. heheheh)

Bonanus was having a great day. Things were peaceful at the moment and she and her sibling had been granted a day off to take Xiao on an outing.

 

The boy had finally gotten all of his stitches out and was being allowed to explore with a chaperone.

 

Today they were going to the strange icy mountain at the edge of their new border, and Mondstadt’s borders. It was new and unusual compared to the warmer lands of Liyue.

 

Everyday that passes it seemed that Xiao got more energy. It’s got to the point that he’s been wandering off, distracted, and even started sleep-walking. Rambler gave them permission for the outing, as they made sure he didn’t run off or get hurt, citing that he’s still recovering even if he’s feeling better.

 

So here they are, bundling all five of themselves in warmer clothes to go hike the snow covered mountain. Bonanus didn’t know why, but Xiao seemed very interested at the mention of snow, which sparked this whole idea in the first place.

 

“You ready, Xiao?” Bonanus asked as they stood at the edge of where the snow met the grass. “Remember you have to keep the scarf on if you want to stay.”

 

The Adeptus grumbled. She and Indarias have been fixing his scarf the entire walk because he keeps pulling it off.

 

“It’s just for today, you don’t have to wear it again unless we come back.” Bonanus gently scolded, “Now let’s go catch up to the others.”

 

She allowed Xiao to hold onto her claws as she helped him up the hill. Bonanus had volunteered to keep close to Xiao, mainly because she herself doesn’t like the cold and if Xiao changed his mind about the snow she’d use it as an excuse to leave.

 

The two stood there in the cold, watching the other three walk around and looking at the different environment. They agreed not to go too far in as it was technically Barbatos’ territory.

 

Xiao, unfortunately, was very enamored with the white powder, crouching down to play with it.

 

The Yaksha took a seat on a nearby rock and watched as Bosacuis built a pile of snowballs while Menogias and Indarias discussed the architect of the nearby ruins.

 

It was nice. To just sit here and enjoy the presence of her family. Watching Bosacius throw numerous snowballs with the advantage of his arms at the other two. Xiao packing snow together like he wanted to try as well.

 

But worry still lingered.

 

Bonanus was the head scout due to her ability to hide in the water. Morax had already asked her to venture into Chi’s territory to find out information about why the citizens haven’t been seen in awhile and to figure out what the Cryo-Geo dragon was up too. Morax was allowing her to leave on her own terms, to gather the supplies and plan her course of action.

 

Her main mission was to find out the status of the citizens and hopefully find and escort one back for Morax to gain information. With enemies on three fronts, it was imperative to not get caught off guard. Especially since Qingxin Village is cut off from the rest of the world at the moment, trapped in a snowstorm 

 

Cloud Retainer told her of an old friend who could help her. Fujin of Chenyu. It was a rare opportunity as Fujin is not aligned with Morax but she’s willing to help out because Chi also threatens her God’s territory.

 

One could call this allowed help to be considered an ‘the enemy of my enemy is my ally’ type situation. One that Bonanus is most grateful for at the moment.

 

The other knew of course. They won’t stop her from going, even if they don’t want her too. Which is why she’s glad she is able to just hang out with them today, as she might not be able to tomorrow.

 

Bonanus inclined her head to the side as a snowball soared past her.

 

“Come one, Bon!” Bocacuis called to her, “I can hear you thinking too much!”

 

Bonanus didn’t reply and used her big claws to fling a wave of snow at her brother. Only for another snowball to hit her from behind.

 

“Hey!” She cried out and turned to see Indarias standing behind her. “Careful!”

 

Bonanus gestured to Xiao, but the boy was still messing with the snow in front of him, paying the other four no mind.

 

Seeing that the boy was too enamored with the snow they soon devolved into a full blown snowball fight. Menogias joined her and helped her make the snow balls.

 

It was a pretty even fight, Bosacuis’ advantage was nulled due to Indarias’ heat leaving snowballs in less than perfect form and her claws made her slow but she could harden the ball a bit to hit harder.

 

Not enough to actually hurt, of course.

 

Xiao was watching them now as the four of them laughed and played. His eyes were sharp, watching each move and each snowball. It was the most focused Bonanus had seen him outside their first meeting.

 

It wasn’t Xiao she was looking at in that glance. It was The Demon. A warrior surveying a battlefield. It held the same intensity as that day.

 

Then it was gone.

 

Xiao turned his attention back to the snow. The momentary pause was enough for her to get a snowball to the face.

 

“Shit!” She hear Bosacius shout, she could hear the laugh at the edge of his voice. “Are you alright?”

 

“I’m alright!” Bonanus wiped the snow off her face. “Just got distracted.”

 

Bonanus glanched back at Xiao to see if they startled him but he was fine. Sitting there eating the snow like nothing happened.

 

Wait.

 

“Xiao! No!”

 

Bonanus dived towards the younger Adeptus. Carefully reaching her claws to pull his hand and stop him from eating more, but he was stronger then she realized and resisted, shoveling more in faster.

 

The snow was dirty, not the pristine white of the surface blanket, but the muddy tan. He had been eating it this whole time and ate to the ground below.

 

She managed to get him to drop the snow he had in his hands but he ran from her, stopping only once he deemed himself safe from her and picked up another handful. 

 

“No!” Bonanus chased him, causing him to run again. “Don’t eat that!”

 

And he was fast. Xiao could dodge under her reach and make it to the other end of the clearing in a heartbeat. Menogias and Indarias tried to help catch him, but he evaded them with as much ease.

 

That is until he stopped right in front of Bosacius, who grabbed him by the waist and lifted him up.

 

“Hey now!” The big Yaksha said, “Enough of that, eating snow can make you sick.”

 

Xiao squirmed in Bosacius’ grasp, whining and growling at being stopped. Snow covered his mouth, quickly melting away as the boy tried to get released. They chuckled when Xiao finally gave up, and he wasn’t happy about, making it known to them with a glare.

 

“Okay, I think we are done for the day.” Indarias said, “Let’s go get you four warmed up!”

 

They didn’t let Xiao down, they couldn’t trust him to not try and eat more snow or get away from them and have to chase him all over the mountain.

 

And with that, they left the mountain, a chilly breeze kicking up snow as their only goodbye.

Notes:

How about that? Xiao and Snow, I had this chapter planned for a while was just waiting for a good moment to added it in. For those who know, know my 4.4 update easter eggs, sadly I will not be exploring it until I finish 100% Fontaine (1 1/2 areas left, almost there)

I hoped you liked it as things will start getting angsty again.

As always let me know what you think and I wish you luck on those pulling for Xianyun (whose name I almost used for Xiao coincidentally before it was revealed.)

Also due to changes in my life such ad health problems and job changes, updates might slow down a bit, depends on life.

Chapter 41

Notes:

(Edit: I maybe should have read up on the lore of Chenyu vale before trying to put it in the story, going to go edit a few chapters before the next update.)

New chapter woo, I lost both 50/50 on Cloud retainer and her weapons banners, but now I have both along with Chenyu Vale being at 33%/51% already because I have no chill and finished 100% all of Fontaine so... yea.

I'm officially back to work and my body hates it already yay.

Enjoy the chapter.

“Come please.” Rambler asked, “Just one bite?”

 

She was trying to get Xiao to eat something today. The boy sat at the table with his head down staring at the plate. It wasn’t even a new food, just some grilled fish, but the boy turned his head away from it.

 

Rambler sighed but didn’t push him.

 

This was the third day he’s refused to eat. He was doing so well due to the terms of the ‘punishment’. She let him off the first day because he told her stomach hurts. Actually told her, with words. His speech is broken, but he’s trying.

 

“Maybe next time you’ll know not to eat snow.” Rambler let out another breath, “You know if you don’t eat at least a few bites you’ll have to help Lady Guizhong with her errands.”

 

Xiao looked at the food before turning away again. Rambler really wished he took at least one bite. Eating snow should have made him not feel for only a day, two max, so Rambler didn’t make him do anything outside the norm but now he shouldn’t have any problem. 

 

She really didn’t want to make him do anything if he was truly feeling bad, but the off chance he could be faking to get out of both eating and consequences also isn’t good.

 

“Alright, up you go.” Rambler decides to exam him, “Let’s see if we can’t find out why your stomach hurts.”

 

Xiao followed her, not looking all that more energetic. He did as she asked, hopping onto the table and laying down with no problem. Rambler noted a bit of bloating and pressed around it. Xiao shivered under her touch as she felt around his stomach until she pressed on a spot and Xiao tried to squirmed away.

 

There was something definitely causing his stomach ache.

 

Rambler focused her energy and let it flow through Xiao, allowing her to look internally. The area outside the stomach looked fine, if not a little inflamed. She peered inside and-

 

“What the-“ Rambler was shocked to find another rock. “How did that get in there?”

 

Thankfully it was small and didn’t seem to have caused any damage to Xiao’s stomach but it was something she was going to have to pull out of him.

 

“Xiao, when you ate the snow…” Rambler hoped the boy would understand what she was asked, “Was it… Crunchy or hard in some places?”

 

Xiao tilted his head looking up at her, before he gave her a nod.

 

“Do you understand that you have eaten a rock while also eating snow?”

 

She knows that some birds eat rocks to help with digestion, this could be the case here but if he knew that, he should have also been aware he didn’t need to do that in his human form. He gave her a confused look and shook his head.

 

“Okay, Xiao.” Rambler allowed for him to sit up while she tries to figure out how to explain this the best she can, “Have you eaten rocks before? Maybe while in bird form?”

 

Another no. So the rocks weren’t a part of an instinctive urge. Meaning he won’t be able to pass the rock in his bird form either. She lets out another sigh.

 

“Have you eaten snow before going to the mountain the other day?” Rambler asks, hoping to get some more information to run by Guizhong later. “Can you tell me if you can remember why you eat snow?”

 

 Xiao tilted his head again, eyes closed, as he thought.

 

“Trapped… hungry.” Xiao tried his best to explain, “Thick snow… helped.”

 

“Trapped where?”

 

She got a shake of the head, meaning he didn’t know.

 

“It was… Before…” Xiao fumbled over his words, “Shǎndiàn… but after…”

 

Xiao trailed off, his eyes going blank as he fell into his memories. It didn’t last last before he shook himself out of the daze, but didn’t elaborate further on what he was trying to say.

 

“That’s alright.” Rambler told him calmly, “I don’t need all the information. Just that you’ve done it before and why.”

 

Now came the hard part, explaining that she needs to get the rock out via minor surgery… again.

 

“Okay Xiao, I need you to listen to me now.” She gently grabbed his shoulders so she knows he’s listening. “We need to get the rock out of you, but unfortunately the two methods we have aren’t…pleasant.”

 

Xiao looked confused still, but she could see apprehension starting to fill his eyes.

 

“The first one, I would give you something… that would make you sick and hope the rock come up, but it’s not guaranteed to work on the first try.” Rambler explained carefully, making sure Xiao was understanding her words, “and the second one, I would give you something, thank makes you fall asleep, and I make a cut on you to pull the rock out, you won’t feel it and you’ll be all heal up by the time you wake up again.”

 

Xiao didn’t like either option, and she could understand why. He wouldn’t want to be given something only to be hurt or sick on purpose again.

 

“Xiao, calm down, it’s okay.” Rambler rubbed his shoulders, “You can say ‘No’ if you really don't want to do this, but the longer the rock stays in your stomach, the more likely it will cause damage and make you feel worse.”

 

That didn’t really calm him down like she wanted too. He looked scared but he hasn’t tried to run away from her yet.

 

“Xiao, do you remember much from when you first came here?”

 

He gave a shrug. 

 

“I have performed the surgery on you before.” Rambler explained gently, pulling up his shirt to show him the faint scar on his stomach, “It was when you were… unresponsive, but it was necessary at the time, it was making you very sick.”

 

Xiao looked at the scar, touching it himself probably trying to remember what was happening around that time. He looked a little upset.

 

“I’m sorry we did it without your permission but at the time you were unable to give it.” Rambler apologizes, “This time however, you do have a say, and I want you to have as much information about this problem so you can make the choice yourself.”

 

Xiao was quiet, just looking at the scar he probably didn’t know he had. Rambler was ready to leave him be and wait for him to come to her when he was ready but he suddenly looked up, staring into her eyes. A moment or two passed before he gave her a nod.

 

“You… want me to get it out?” She clarifies for herself, “Which method do you want to do?”

 

“Sleep.” Was what he said, “You said… it won’t hurt?”

 

“You're right. It won’t.” Rambler affirmed, “Thank you for trusting me, let’s go get ready.”

 

Rambler helped him off the exam table.

 

“And remember, you can say ‘No’ at any time.” She reiterates, “Alright?”

 

Xiao nodded as he followed her around. She explained everything she was doing, everything she was grabbing, even if he didn’t have a question about it. Xiao listened to every word. She was hoping it was calming him down as he never said ‘No’ even when something she said either confused her or made him look like he was second guessing himself.

 

Once she is done, she’ll figure out if Marchocius can make ‘safe to eat’ snow for him. But for now, she was mixing the sleep aid with Xiao watching her.

Notes:

I realized I made Xiao start speaking, but then never made him actually talk to someone so, here we go, I hope you like cute, confused Xiao needing another surgery and making his first big choice on his own.

As always all feedback is good feedback and I'll see you next chapter feat. Bonanus' pov

Hehehehe.

Chapter 42

Notes:

Welp, I lied, I got the chapter done the same day as the A/N so now the note will be here.

Chapter 40 has been fixed to make more sense Lore wise so if you want to go re-read it, it's there.

Anyways, let's see how Bonanus' scouting mission goes.

Bonanus raised herself out of the water quietly and looked around.

 

Cloud Retainer’s friend, Fujin, came through and got her through the icy barrier that now marked Chi’s borders.

 

The water was freezing as she swam around. There was no life to be found in the land. Plant life was crushed and buried under the snow, animals deserted their homes due to lack of food, and the people were nowhere to be seen. There weren’t even soldiers patrolling anywhere.

 

It was unnerving as the snowy landscape looked completely undisturbed. It also made it harder for Bonanus to move around, unable to hide her tracks over older ones that did not exist.

 

Thanks to the runoff from Fontaine, parts of the river weren’t frozen over so Bonanus was able to pop in and out of the water, leaving no trace of her being there behind.

 

There were two villages to scope out, Qingce and Wuwang. Qingce should be the easier of the two, being so close to the water, but it was also closer to the center of Chi’s territory.

 

She’ll just follow the water for now, and scout from there.

 

Bonanus move up river, close to the houses. She lifted the water up around her so she didn’t disturb the fresh snow and looked into the windows. Warmth could be felt but the house was dark, it should be the middle of the day but there was no signs of life in the house. The residents were asleep on their bed.

 

A strange ornament hung above the bed, it looked like a figure of a dragon, gem-like eyes seemed to glow as its designed focus was on the people below. Bonanus left, moving back to the river and getting closer to the other house.

 

The same thing, but this house had kids, both bed frames had similar dragon ornaments. Each house she could reach with the water was the same. The last house she decided to check, the dragon ornament was by the window. It peered downwards like all the others. Bonanus used her elemental sight on it. It was flowing with energy and flowed off to who knows where. She was about to leave when the ornament moved, looking towards her direction.

 

Bonanus dropped herself, landing in the snow. Coming to the realization that those dragons were not ornaments at all, but minions of Chi.

 

She carefully peaked back into the window to see the little dragon focused back on the residents of the house. She carefully lifted herself up and tried to smooth out the indent she just made before entering the water again.

 

She had to leave, who knows if one of those things saw her or not, but she still needs to check on Wuwang. The only problem was it was on the mountain side, she didn't know if she could get there with the water.

 

Following the water upstream again she flowed up the waterfalls before stopping. There was one more waterfall, leading up to the tallest peak of Chi’s territory. It flowed out of the ground, which was a risky path. She could get trapped under the earth or end up in a completely unknown land, but on the off chance it could lead to a lake on the other side, she’ll risk it.

 

Focusing her energy she shot up the waterfall, fighting against the current as she pushed herself through the natural water way. It was dark, impossible to see where she was going but she pushed on. Eventually the water calmed and she was able to see light ahead.

 

Bonanus popped out of a small pond and looked around. She didn’t appear on the other side of the mountain like she’d hoped. No. She was on top of the mountain. She felt the flow of water, a well that was welling up only to be dropped down the hole she just came from.

 

The spot she was in had signs of life as she looked around. A small campsite near the edge, completely free of snow. Bonanus took in the view, recognizing Chi’s territory below her, and Chenyu Vale to the side, then Morax’s, and Osial’s. 

 

Horror as she realized that Chi has someone who’s up here, who can see all of Liyue and beyond.

 

Hearing something behind her, Bonanus ducked to the side as a shard of ice and rock land beside her.

 

“Well well well.” A voice hissed out as two slightly bigger dragons appeared. “We have a mouse.”

 

“I have already reported it to Qingce.” The second hissed, “Then we will decide what we do.”

 

Time to go, she thought as the two dragons glared at her.

 

“Yes.” The Cryo one spoke as Bonanus tried to come up with an escape route. “He’ll probably summon all of us pieces to attack.”

 

“We could attack now.” The Geo one suggested, “Get rewards for catching the little rat.”

 

“Yes.” The other agreed, “Maybe Chi will grant us more of ourselves and give us names.”

 

They both must have thought that was a good idea as they both started slithering towards her. Bonanus dodged another round of attacks and jumped off the mountain. 

 

She needs to leave, might as well run towards home. Thankfully Wuwang was in the same direction, she could at least get some intel on the other village.

 

The dragons have chased jumping after her as she used her claws to slow her descent before kicking off. There was a small lake which she summoned the water towards herself to soften her fall.

 

Shards of ice and rock flew past her as the two… ‘pieces’, they called themselves, chased her. She ran into the darkened forest, towards the village, only to skid to a stop moments later.

 

Wuwang Village was nothing but destroyed and burnt buildings and snow covered debris. No signs of life at all. It was terrible, Chi must have destroyed the village. She took in as many details as she could.

 

“Ugh!”

 

Her moment of pause was a mistake as a piece of ice sliced through her side. Bonanus held her bleeding side and started running again. Hydro was pretty much useless against Cryo and Geo, she had no choice but to run.

 

Leaping off the cliff facing Morax’s territory she slid down the wall, her blood spilling onto the stone but she was close now. She can make it. She just needed to get past the big tree.

 

It felt like ice was running through her veins as she dove into the river. She used the water to propel herself forward, narrowly dodging being frozen from another attack. She flowed the river past the tree.

 

She was safe now, back in Morax’s land.

 

Bonanus pulled herself out of the water, tired. The laid on the river bed for a moment catching her breath. She used a lot of her energy and power today. Digging her claws into the mud, she forced herself up, holding her injury.

 

She needs to get back to the Assembly and report to Morax, but her legs wouldn’t support her.

 

“Halt! Who goes there!” A shout cried out as a spear was pointed at her face. “Tell us you- Oh! General Chizapus!”

 

Two of the Millelith found her. She became so overcome with relief that darkness crept up on her and she fell to the clutches of unconsciousness.

Notes:

I hope you enjoyed it, I re-read up on Chi and went 'hmm, interesting' so yeah. And before anyone asked, no, the dragon are not the Geo Vishap hatchlings or otherwise because I believe they are connected to Azdaha who's not in the story yet... I think, I didn't azdaha in yet right? The ones I'm writing in are something completely different.

The time of fluff is ending, time for angst to crawl back and take over again.

As always, all feedback is good feedback, let me know what you think.

Chapter 43

Notes:

:)

 

Heheheheheh...

Something was going on.

 

Xiao can see it.

 

All the adults were nervous about something. They tried their best to hide it, even from him, but he could tell. They were worried about something and it wasn’t him.

 

Xiao scratched an itch he felt as he watched Menogias and… Bosacius? Talk about something. Bosacius was the one watching him today. Xiao didn’t particularly like the larger electro man but Rambler told him to behave.

 

They had walked to where Menogias was. The Geo man had requested his presence for some reason. He was directed to stand on a small platform. While he and Bosacius talked, Menogias was walking around him in circles with a string, holding it up against him in various spots. Every once in a while he’d write something on a piece of parchment but Xiao couldn’t read. He didn’t know what was going on.

 

He scratched his arm again.

 

They talked and Xiao could only understand half of what they were saying. He was trying not to listen in. He’s been punished for it before with his Old Master but it's hard not to when words like ‘mission’ and ‘enemy’ and ‘danger’ meet his ears.

 

It didn’t seem like they were talking about him though.

 

The itch moved to his other arm as he listened.

 

“Look, Bo.” Menogias said, holding the string to Xiao’s back. “She only left last night, she said it’ll take a day or two at most.”

 

“I know, I know.” Bosacius said, crossing his arms. “But I can’t help but worry, I just have a bad feeling is all.”

 

“Look- Xiao can you hold your arms out to your side please.” Menogias suddenly instructed him before turning back to the other man, “You think it would help, have the mortal guards patrol along the water but other than that, we just have to wait till she either returns or her time limit runs out.”

 

Xiao definitely knew they weren’t talking about him now… but who? This confirms that Morax does send people on missions, dangerous ones at that. Will he be expected to do the same once he… ‘healed’? Just like with his Old Master?

 

“Xiao, can you pull your wings out for me?” Menogias asked, “I need to measure around them.”

 

Xiao didn’t know what he was measuring but he let his wings out. They were itchy as well, very itchy. But he held his wings still as he felt Menogias touch his back.

 

“Okay, I’ll do that.” Bosacius seemed to have decided to agree with Menogias. “But if she doesn’t show up at the rendezvous tomorrow we go straight to Lord Morax!”

 

“I’m amicable to that.” Menogias patted his shoulder before addressing Xiao, “You can put them away now if you want, Xiao. We’re done.”

 

Xiao hid the wings again. He didn’t understand why he was here or why Menogias wanted his measurements but it didn’t hurt, so he didn’t complain.

 

“Come on.” Menogias set his things down. “Let’s go tell the mortals to keep a lookout and get some dinner. It should help keep it off your mind for a bit.”

 

Xiao followed them out. 

 

The sun was setting, causing the warm air to start cooling. It was… nice, he thinks. The two older warriors led him to the mortal town. Humans milled about. Smells, noises, and lights filled his senses. 

 

It was loud and the different smells were overwhelming as he grabbed the back of Menogias’ robe. He didn’t like it here.

 

They kept walking, stopping only for a moment and then another, but he wasn’t paying attention. A hand on his shoulder made him look up.

 

The noise and light were gone. He was led to a small stone pavilion near the outskirts of the village… It was nice and quiet. 

 

“Come on Xiao.” Bosacius patted the seat next to him. “It’s time to eat.”

 

Xiao still didn’t like eating, but he’s grown used to it. The people around him always have him try something different when they can and judging by the dish in front of him, it was time for something new again.

 

“This is Beef and Tofu Chow Fun.” Bosacius slid the bowl in front of him. “I hope you like it, it’s one of my favorites!”

 

It was savory and a little salty. Flavor filled his mouth as he ate some. It was okay. He didn’t know what… tofu was, he assumed it was the light brown pieces that didn’t look like meat or vegetables. He poked it with the chopsticks before picking it up and smelling it.

 

It smelt like beef… What was he expecting?

 

Before he put it in his mouth. It tasted like bland beef but the texture made him freeze. If it wasn’t for the taste and temperature being so overwhelmingly wrong, Xiao probably would have thought he was eating a dream again. It was soft and a little chewy, but he ate it slowly. 

 

He knew that the two with him were watching his reactions, he didn’t know why but they always seemed happy when he ate.

 

Xiao ate around the other pieces of tofu… he didn’t know if he wanted to risk falling into… What did Rambler call it? A ‘panic attack’?

 

He picked at another piece before deciding to eat it. Expecting the texture this time helped. It… was nice and he felt some need inside him get partially satisfied. 

 

If only it was colder… and sweeter.

 

He ate the rest of the tofu before he realized he couldn’t find anymore and picked at the rest of the dish, somewhat disappointed.

 

Bosacius and Menogias were laughing about something but Xiao didn’t pay attention to what they were saying. 

 

Suddenly there was more tofu on his plate. He looked across to the other two bowls to see very little tofu remaining in them.

 

“It’s alright, Xiao.” Bosacius said when he looked up at them confused, “It seems you like it, we don’t mind sharing.”

 

Xiao didn’t move to eat the tofu though. Why would they give him theirs? Didn’t they need to eat too?  Would there be consequences if they share?

 

“It’s alright, Xiao.” Menogias reiterated, “We have plenty of food between the three of us, you can have all of that if you want it.”

 

Xiao glanced at the tofu before looking between the two. He cautiously took another piece, eating it slowly, enjoying the texture.

 

Just as he reached for the last piece again, the sounds of bells rang across the area. They were loud and made his ears hurt, causing him to drop his eating sticks.

 

Bosacius and Menogia both tensed before they both stood up and ran towards where the sound was coming from.

 

Xiao looked around confused at suddenly being left alone… Was he supposed to go after them? He got up and started walking towards where the sound came from. The closer he got the more clear a new sound got.

 

The sound of fighting.

 

Xiao ran forward before stopping where he could see the fighting. Bosacius and Menogias were fighting with a group of mortals against what looked like some very big lizards.

 

Xiao wanted to move forward and help but… was he allowed too?

 

He spotted two of the mortals dragging something blue away and into the village. Should he go after them? Before he could decide what to do he heard a rustling in a nearby bush, causing his head to snap towards it.

 

He was met with another lizard, its eyes glowing red as it looked at him. Its lips curled, showing rows of sharp looking teeth. The whisper he hears sometimes fills his ears.

 

“I’ve found you.”

 

Before Xiao could run, or the lizard could attack, something landed in front of him. 

 

It was one of the mortal guards. He was dead, weapon still in hand. Xiao gulped down his trepidation and grabbed the spear from the dead man’s hand. If he’s punished for it later, then so be it.

 

But he will not just do nothing.

Notes:

Hehehehe, who missed the angst?

I hope you liked it.

See you next chapter.

As always let me know what you think, All feedback helps me improve my writing and lets me see how the story is flowing.

Chapter 44

Notes:

Enjoy~

Bosacius realized his mistake five seconds into battle. He cursed himself as he slammed into a giant lizard monster.

 

Bonanus was laying on the ground with two soldiers trying to drag her away from the monsters. A half circle of earth appears around them, cutting off another attack from the lizards. 

 

“Go!” Bosacius yelled at them, “Get General Chizapus out of here!”

 

He and Menogias surged forward to hold off the two massive lizards, only for several still big, but significantly smaller, lizards slipping out of the river and joining the fray.

 

He didn’t know what these were. They weren’t like the Vishaps that Lord Azdaha summons, they were more fluid, like salamanders.

 

Bosacius was only half focused on the battle. The other half he was berating himself for leaving Xiao alone. He had forgotten that the third presence with them was not Indarias, but Xiao. He could only hope Xiao would stay where he was at the Pavillion or run the other direction.

 

Swiping his swords, Bosacius sliced two lizards in half, crushing the neck of another two in his other pair of hands.

 

Their bodies dissipated into a stream of Adeptal energy that flowed back towards Chi’s territory. It has to be the God’s doing.

 

More mortals joined in the fight as well. They did well to work in numbers to hold off the lizards till either he or Menogias could kill them, but they hardly stood a chance alone.

 

Something green flashed in the corner of his eyes, when he turned his head he was greeted with the body of a slowly dissipating lizard. Before he could blink another lizard came up behind him. Bosacius gritted his teeth as he prepared for a hit as he had his hands full with more lizards.

 

But it never came.

 

Another green flash and he saw Xiao kicking the lizard away, boosted by his Anemo energy. A bloody spear was held in his hands, probably from one of the unfortunate mortals in the fight.

 

Before Bosacius could tell him to leave the boy flashed off, striking another lizard, piercing the spear right through its head before he was gone again.

 

Xiao’s face was that of cold focus, reminding Bosacius of who he was before being rescued by Lord Morax. A Demon. He flashed around in green and white smoke, killing the lizards until one of the bigger ones managed to predict his moves, striking Xiao with its tail and sending him flying backwards.

 

Xiao didn’t seem stunned as he flipped in the air, sliding back a bit as he landed in a crouch, glaring at the lizard.

 

Bosacius wanted to order Xiao to leave, but it gave him mixed feelings. Xiao probably would do as he said, but it would undermine the work in teaching Xiao about making his own choices. On the other hand, his help has given them the advantage.

 

Bosacius dodged another strike of the lizard’s elemental shards of ice.

 

There was too much going on to worry about it right now, he had to focus on the fight.

 

Xiao, admittedly, works very well with Bosacius and Menogias. His Anemo powers swirls his Electro and had no reaction to Menogias’ Geo, causing more damage to their enemies.

 

The little bird was fast. Fast and deadly. He could jump across the fight in a flash, landing one-hit kills with great precision and speed. Bosacius had worried a little that he would just attack blindly at first but he didn’t. He covered their backs and counter blows that would have killed the mortals fighting with them.

 

Eventually there was only one lizard left. It looked angry and hissed at them. The three of them stood between it and the mortals dragging their fallen comrades away for help. Xiao was crouched in front of him, ready to strike.

 

The boy glared at the wounded lizards, as if daring it to move forward.

 

“You think you can hide here forever?” The lizard hissed out with a laugh. “Chi will destroy everything.”

 

“We’d like to see him try.” Bosacius readied his swords, “Morax has yet to even falter before another God.”

 

“That’s a lie.” The lizard slandered “He faltered when striking the monster before you.”

 

He saw Xiao tense a little.

 

“He who holds One’s true name shall forever hold power over it.” The lizard spoke a riddle, “You shall not win with a Demon by your side, just wait and see.”

 

The lizard flung something at them just as Xiao lunged forward in a flash, driving his spear through the lizard’s head, breaking the pole it was on, killing it.

 

The fight was over.

 

Thankfully it never went further than the banks of the river, but there were still casualties to the mortal forces. Menogias was assisting them.

 

Bosacius wanted to go find out where Bonanus was dragged off too but he had other matter on hand, like Xiao and whatever was thrown at them.

 

He no doubt was going to get a scolding from Rambler for leaving Xiao alone and then letting him fight but it could be worse.

 

Whatever was thrown scattered purple flowers across the ground. He didn’t smell anything off in the air so he assumed it was supposed to be some kind of distraction.

 

Checking on Xiao, however, he realizes something was off. The young Adeptus’ sharp focus was suddenly replaced with an almost dazed expression. He was staring at the purple flowers as some drool started dripping from his mouth.

 

“Xiao?” He watched as Xiao picked up one of the flowers, as if in a trance. “Xiao, hey!”

 

Bosacius placed a firm hand on Xiao’s shoulder, snapping him out of the trance. The boy threw his hand off and fell backwards, dropping the flower.

 

Eyes were wide and wild with fear as Xiao looked at all the flowers around him, kicking his legs to help him scoot back away from them until he was stopped by running into a nearby fence, drool running down his chin, breathing heavily.

 

The reaction confused Bosacius. They were just flowers right?

 

Kneeling down, he took a closer look at them. They looked familiar. He glanced between Xiao and the flower before he remembered. 

 

These were the dream flowers.

 

Bosacius drop the one he had picked up and immediately grabbed Menogias, pulling him away from the humans. 

 

“I need you to gather all of these up real quick.” Bosacius told him, pointing to the flowers, “Make sure their contained tightly, their affecting Xiao.”

 

Menogias gave him a silent nod and started manipulating the ground to scoop up all the flowers. Just as Bosacius turned to help Xiao he heard a crack, like a bone breaking. His head shot to Xiao, who at some point started biting himself. Half of his forearm now sat at an off angle as blood and drool flowed off of it.

 

“Crap.”

 

Bosacius moved to Xiao immediately. The boy was looking ahead, eyes wide with fear yet with an edge of focus. He panted through his nose heavily. It was almost like he was forcing himself to not move.

 

Bosacius didn’t know what to do as a sudden, sharp inhale caused Xiao to bite down harder on his arm and closed his eyes.

 

Another crack was heard, this time Xiao let out a whine as he broke his own arm further. Bosacius grabbed him, forcing Xiao to let go of his arm and tapped his arms around his.

 

“Calm down, it’s okay.” Bosacius said, trying to do what he’d seem mortal parents do for their young. “Is it the smell? Just focus on my scent if you can.”

Xiao wiggled in his grasp as Bosacius just rubbed his back and carried him away from the flowers. Menogias will understand and take care of it.

 

Eventually Xiao stilled, they were about halfway back to the Adepti section. Before Bosacius could check on him, he felt a small arm half wrap around him…

 

And Xiao starts crying.

 

Bosacius panics.

Notes:

No one died! ... Well no one important anyways, Sorry Millelith Soliders.

I hope you enjoyed as my mysteries slow start coming together.

I was thinking for chapter 50 to do a redo the tagging, so save the story in case the tag your following gets changed in a couple of week, also let me know which tag aren't necessary and which tags you think are needed for this story.

As always let me know what you think, and I'll see you next chapter.

Feel free to check out my other story in the meantime. I have a lot of Kaeya centered ones, a Wriothesley one, and is currently also working on my first Kazuha one.

Chapter 45

Notes:

Let... Mix it up a bit today, hehehehe.

How about some... let's say, Rambler Angst.

Enjoy

Rambler was fuming. The nice day she had been having with Lady Guizhong took a turn. First mortal soldier quiet literally dragged in Bonanus, bleeding and unconscious. Followed by Bosacius with Xiao in his arms, also bleeding, and a number of Millelith, following behind. Each supporting another member of the guard. Who were then followed in by Menogias, who looked relatively fine, with more bleeding Millelith.

 

She got to work, working on the worst to the best, trusting Guizhong to take care of the General. She did a quick look at Xiao’s injuries. A deep bite mark, broken forearm, and a deeply bruised chest.

 

It was hours before she was done with the mortals. Rambler turned on her heel and demanded to know what happened as she tended to Xiao.

 

“How could you let him fight!” Rambler scolded the two Yakshas sitting on their knees, “He’s just barely recovered and now he broke his own arm and almost bit through an artery!”

 

The healer smacked the two on the head before returning her attention to Xiao, still listening to the Yakshas explain themselves. The sorry expressions on Bosacius and Menogias’ faces would not deter her anger at the situation.

 

The poor boy has been vacant after being returned alongside several mortals and Bonanus. Dried tear tracks decorated his face, which is a first.

 

His arm was in poor state and no doubt he was tired from using his powers. She had to check his teeth as well because if he bit himself hard enough to break his own arm, then he could have also broken a tooth or two. Thankfully they were all fine.

 

The arm was bleeding lightly as she cleaned it and wrapped it. Setting the bone only caused a small whimper from the boy. 

 

Apparently he did this to himself in order to resist the allure of the dream flowers.

 

As the two explained what had happened her anger got worse. Anger at Xiao’s misfortune, at his Old Master, at the two Yaksha, even at Celestia for starting the war in the first place. But there’s only one who’s truly at fault.

 

Chi.

 

Based on what she was told, he’s the true Mastermind behind everything that’s happened to Xiao.

 

That old dragon has always been manipulative and greedy. That fact that he hasn’t tried to do any land grabs between the Assembly and Chuyen was suspect.

 

And the fact that Xiao is somehow connected to Chi is troubling. Rambler doubts he’s a spy and she doesn't know if trying to get him to talk about it will tell them anything.

 

“Rambler.” A soft voice called behind her. “Rambler, you're scaring the poor boy.”

 

She turned to see Guizhong looking tired. Looking back at Xiao, his vacant expression was gone. Now he was looking down and shaking. Did he think he was in trouble?

 

“Xiao.” Rambler let out a breath, making the boy tense, “You’re not in trouble, dear.”

 

“But… I fought.” Xiao mumbled, “Without… Permission.”

 

“Did you want to fight?” Rambler got a hesitant nod, “Then it’s fine, you did what you thought was right, you will not get in trouble for that.”

 

“Then…” Xiao hesitated, looking around a bit. “Why… are you angry?”

 

“Oh, Xiao.” Rambler sighed again. “It’s because you got hurt.”

 

Xiao only looked more confused.

 

“I don’t know if you understand yet, but the people here at the Assembly, myself, the other Adepti, Lord Morax, and even Lady Guizhong …” Rambler started, placing her hands on Xiao's shoulders, “We care about you. I’m not angry at you, or the others. I’m upset that you got hurt, even if you did it to yourself to stop yourself.”

 

Xiao didn’t look like he believed what she said, or even understood the meaning behind what she said. Rambler decided not to push it for now, he’s had a long day.

 

“Come on.” Rambler finished tying the splint to his arm, “Off to bed, we’ll talk tomorrow.”

 

Xiao made a face but went to his room.

 

…They’ll need to find another place for him to stay until he decides to leave for himself. He can’t stay in her Teapot forever. Especially if the war is about to change.

 

“How’s Bonanus?” Rambler asked Guizhong. “You didn’t need my help did you?”

 

“Her injuries weren’t as serious as we thought, but they’ll still take some time to heal.” Guizhong told her, “She’s mostly exhausted but will be up and about within the week.”

 

“That’s good.” Rambler got up and started brewing some tea, she was also tired. “It will only get worse from here, won’t it?”

 

“Probably.” Guizhong answered, taking a seat at the table. “Only time will tell.”

 

“How should we go about asking Xiao some questions?” Ramber asks, sitting across from the Goddess. “They’ll likely upset him but we need to try and find out what he knows about Chi.”

 

“We could do it when Bonanus gives us her report.” Guizhong suggested, “Having someone else answer questions might make him feel more comfortable in answering his own.”

 

“I suppose…” Rambler leaned her head back against the chair, “I assume Morax was informed of what happened?”

 

“Of course.” Guizhong said, “He’s having Indarias and Cloud Retainer re-check all the defenses and change the patrol rotation.”

 

“Bosacius said Xiao fought very well.” Rambler changed the topic, “As much as I wish to keep him off the battlefield, it might help to have something familiar to him.”

 

“I’ll talk to Morax about it.” Guizhong leaned forward as the kettle whistled, “But ultimately, it’s up to Xiao.”

 

“We’ve been lucky that it’s been so quiet.” Rambler poured the tea for them, “But this was a hard reminder that we are still at war, and that things can change in the matter of minutes.”

 

“How many did you lose?”

 

“Three.” Rambler answered, not drinking her tea, “Plus the five who died in the field.”

 

“You did your best.” Guizhong said softly. “You saved who you could.”

 

The words of comfort did little to stop the shake in her hands. Rambler knew Guizhong was right, not that she blamed herself for their deaths. However, the fact remains that she can’t save everyone.

 

As a warrior turned healer to help save those downed on the battlefield in this war, she was quite familiar with death.

 

It’s been drilled into her being from the moment she lost her first patient in the middle of those battles. 

 

Still, as she looks over to Xiao’s room, she will still always do her best to use everything in her power to save lives, and know that for every life lost, two more could be saved the next day.

Notes:

Gotta love clunky filler chapters, I hope you enjoyed regardless.

As always all feedback is good feedback, let me know what you think.

See you next chapter.

I'm working on a new writing method that will allow me to write more stories without overwhelming me, so far so good as I now have 3 stories active and a 4th in the making.

Chapter 46

Notes:

Another filler chapter sorry guys I was on a trip.

Hope you enjoy regardless.

hehehehe

Rambler was… perplexed as she watched Xiao.

 

She sent a summons for Mountain Shaper and Cloud Retainer, hoping the two cranes could shed some light on this… Behavior…

 

Hoping it was bird behavior and not something else.

 

The day had started off as usual, checking on Xiao, tending to his new injuries, and feeding him some breakfast and going about doing the errands that needed to be done for the day.

 

She had taken Xiao with her as she went to pick herbs so he could enjoy the fresh air. She wanted to make something for him because he’s been scratching at himself more and more. 

 

When they reached the area where the herbs she was looking for were located she told he could do whatever he wanted as long as he was in sight of her and… turned into his bird form and started biting his wings and rolling in his back.

 

He was kicking up a small cloud of dust as he used the ground to, presumably, scratch his back.

 

Rambler didn’t know if this was normal… or if she should stop it…

 

She delved into her memory, trying to remember everything She and the cranes talked about behavior wise.

 

As long as he doesn’t hurt himself, it was fine…She guesses. She’ll just keep an eye on him while she waits.

 

Chuckling, she watched him squirm on his back, like he was trying to get a particular spot but couldn’t.

 

“Come here.” Rambler motioned him over, “I’ll try to help.”

 

Xiao rolled onto his feet and waddled over, quietly shrieking as he started rubbing again her hands.

 

He was quiet cute like this, Rambler thought.

 

Messaging his back and neck, she carefully combed her fingers through the rough pins. She was taking this moment to take a closer looked at what he was doing.

 

He nibbled at his wings, his beak catching some of the pins between.

 

Was he trying to preen himself?

 

Rambler looked at the feather pin carefully as she continued scratching his back. They didn’t look ready? She carefully caught one between her fingers and it cracked, revealing a brand new bright green feather.

 

Maybe they were ready.

 

She caught another one, but this time Xiao shrieked her, head swerving around to try and bite her hand.

 

“Sorry.”

 

Rambler paused her scratching when she heard the flapping of wings behind her.

 

“Greeting Retainer.” Mountain Shaper, landing behind her. “I got your message, what is going on?”

 

“Just some unusual behavior.” Rambler told him, “Just wanted to make sure it was nothing to worry about.”

 

Xiao, who had been clawing at her robe when she stopped to talk, was now back to rolling around on his back. Mountain Shaper took in the behavior for a minute before chuckling.

 

“He’s just itchy.” The crane told her, “The pins are getting ready to crack if they aren’t already.”

 

“I cracked one earlier while I was scratching his back.” Rambler said, “Another one had him trying to bite me.”

 

“That will happen.” Mountain Shaper said, watching the younger bird, “They won’t all be ready at the same time, but it looks like he doesn’t know how to preen himself properly.”

 

“Can you teach him?” Rambler asks, as she started picking the herbs she came here for, “Or will it be different because he’s a different bird?”

 

“I can teach him the basics.” Mountain Shaper said, flapping a wing, “But the size difference will pose problems for some of it, I’m sure he’ll figure it out.”

 

Xiao made his way over to Mountain Shaper as he sat down. Rambler watched the crane’s much larger beak card through the pins, switching between his own feathers and Xiao’s pin, teaching.

 

Rambler was glad that Xiao didn’t seem too affected by the events of the other day. While he seemed a little more withdrawn, there were no signs of panic or fear at going outside. It seems like fighting was not something that would be a trigger for him.

 

And the healer will admit, other than a bruised chest, the only injuries Xiao got were from his own doing. Which have healed quickly thanks to his regained Adeptal energy.

 

“Mhff!”

 

The sound Mountains Shaper made drew Rambler’s attention back to the birds. Xiao was hissing at the crane as he held the older bird’s long beak in his talons, hanging upside down from it, trying to bite him.

“How did you manage that?” Rambler asks as Mountain Shaper pushes Xiao off with his own talons. “Does that hurt?”

 

“No.” The bird explains, making sure Xiao was fine, “I touched a pin that wasn’t ready, he’ll be fine.”

 

Xiao didn’t seem to agree with Mountain Shaper and tried to bite him again. Rambler let them be as she turned back to the herbs but it wasn’t long before Xiao got fed up with the crane and came back over to her, turning back into his human form.

 

“If you wanna help, pick the ones that have blue underleaves.” Rambler addressed the curious boy, “They will help with your itching later.”

 

Xiao glanced over to Mountain Shaper, the crane had his head turned, upset that his attempt to parent the boy didn’t work.

 

“Don’t worry about him.” Rambler placated, “He's just being grumpy.”

 

Xiao hesitatingly pulled at the plants in front of them, grabbing with a tight fist as he ripped the stem, holding the now crumpled plant to her.

 

“Good job.” Rambler praised, “Try gently now, we don’t want the stems to be all crumpled.”

 

It was nice, gathering herbs with Xiao, until it wasn’t.

 

A rumbling in the distance causing a far away bird flock to take off was their only warning.

 

Both Rambler and Mountain Shaper were immediately alert as the rumbling grew closer. She grabbed Xiao’s hand, the younger Adeptus also aware something was happening, and led him away.

 

A wave of water rushed past them, flooding the area they were just in, washing away everything in its path. Waves splashed up like the water was trying to grab them and drag them under the current.

 

If it was any other time, any other place, Rambler would not have thought too much about it. But a shared look between her and Mountain Shaper confirmed her thinking.

 

The current of water cutting a new river through the land was too filled with elemental energy, this was no force of nature or accident. This… This was an attack!

 

An attack from Osial.

 

The war has officially picked back up again.

Notes:

Hoped you enjoyed, I know it's not my best work for this story.

As always all feedback is good feedback, don't be afraid to let me know what you think

Yes I know it was a shorter chapter.

See you next chapter.

Chapter 47

Notes:

Xiao pov time wooo.

I hope you enjoy hehehehe.

:)

Xiao knew something was wrong.

 

Everyone’s been tense and Rambler seemed worried about something as she dragged him back to the… Teapot?

 

He wonders if he did anything wrong?

 

The other bird, Mountain Shaper he believes, has flown off ahead.

 

Was he angry at him because he didn’t allow the older bird to pick and bite at his wings?

 

Looking back at the river he couldn’t help but think it was rather odd how it appeared out of nowhere. They’ve been like this ever since the lizards attacked. They said they weren’t upset that he fought, but… they obviously weren’t happy about something.

 

Was he missing something? Or…

 

A pang went through his chest. He scratched at it.

 

Were they going to get rid of him?

 

Xiao felt conflicted. He liked Rambler. She was nice and explained everything she was doing. She made him feel better. His Master was also… nice. The Geo God never demanded anything of him… yet and he doesn’t see him all that often, but when he was around he was alway calm and sturdy. 

 

Like a rock.

 

Did they finally deem him useless? Will he be killed? Or…

 

His mind went back to the fight a few days ago.

 

They were going to make him fight again. They know about the flowers effect on him, the purple one saw it, and they were going to use it to their advantage!

 

Xiao slipped his hand out of the healers and looked around.

 

They were still a good distance away from the big building. The teal rock he always had thrummed in his pocket, 

 

He… he needs to get away!

 

Pulling at his power, the wind he’s made of resonating with the stone in his pocket, and… he teleported.

 

He didn’t have a place in mind, which was a mistake.

 

Looking around he had no idea where he was. The land was unfamiliar to him. He was no longer surrounded by trees and bushes and instead was in a big field, with flowers everywhere. He could see the buildings where the mortals lived in the distance.

 

Taking a deep breath he moved again, to the other side of the flower field. They smelled nice, kinda like the soap he used in the bath, the scent was calming. He was now near a single tree, it looked like there was a path passing it.

 

He wondered for a moment why the tree was there, it's not like all the others, it was older, much older, standing tall against the sky.

 

Sound made him jump and look around. It was something unfamiliar, it sounded… nice.

 

It wasn’t the sound of people walking or of animals. It was a hum in the air, sharp yet smooth. 

 

Xiao decided to follow it.

 

He cautiously came around the other side of the tree, and tensed.

 

There, sitting next to another patch of flowers, was the Goddess that sometimes shows up with Master.

 

He watched as she played… with strings on a board? Each time her fingers glided across the sound he heard would appears, changing along to her movements.

 

Her back was to him as he watched the flowers before her bloom, opening to show their pale blue petals to the sun.

 

“Hello, Xiao.” She said, making him jump as the sounds stopped, “Are you lost?”

 

Xiao didn’t answer as he looked around. It was just the two of them here. He growled at her but the Goddess didn’t make any move to… well move.

 

“If you’re running away, I won’t stop you.” She told him, confusing him, “But I would like to talk with you before you leave.”

 

She patted the spot next to her but otherwise didn’t move other than to pluck at the stringe again.

 

Was… she giving him a choice to just walk away? She said she wouldn’t stop him… and has made no moves since. It’s got to be a trick. Xiao looked around again, before taking a step towards the Goddess, crunching down far enough that she couldn’t grab him.

 

“Thank you.” She said, stopping the nice sound again, “I just wanted to ask… Why are you running away now? Are you unhappy here?”

 

Xiao didn’t answer. Her tone wasn’t angry or sad, it held no accusations. It was simple curiosity.

 

“Would it help if I swear on my life, power, and all that I am that I have no intention to trick you, or to hurt you or anyone else?” She said, shocking him, “Because I promise I mean you no harm, physically or otherwise.”

 

“I…” Xiao looked at the flowers before he felt like he could answer, “I don’t… want… to be a monster anymore.”

 

“And why would running away help you with that?” She asked, “Why do you feel like you would still be a monster here?”

 

Xiao studied her face. She was calm and despite his instincts, he saw honesty in her eyes.

 

“The flowers…” he mumbled, “They make me… a monster… and now others know.”

 

“Are you talking about the dream flowers?” The Goddess asked, her voice still gentle and honest. “We’ve known about those for a while, and I promise with my whole being, no one in the Assembly will use them against you. Ever.”

 

She sounded angry at the idea, but Xiao’s been fooled before. But… they already knew about the flower. The sickly sweet flowers full of dreams. 

 

“Are there any other concerns?” “She asks, “Anything else at all that you think might make you a monster?”

 

“I… don’t want to be…” Xiao flipped as he hesitated, should he tell her? Should he not? He could still run now. “Don’t force me to fight…”

 

“And why would fighting make you a monster?”

 

Xiao looked at his hands. They were clean, showing only his pale skin and old calluses, but he knew. He knew they were stained with the blood of thousands of innocents. They would never be clean, not truly.

 

“I… don’t want to kill… anymore.”

 

“I see.” The Goddess started lightly strumming the strings again, “Well we would never make you fight if you don’t want to, but if you’re still sure you want to leave, you should ask Morax a question first.”

 

“You won’t… Stop me?” Xiao asks, confused, “You won’t… Make me stay?”

 

“No. If you want to leave then that is your right.” She tells him, “You have been free the moment Morax and I found you alive in that hidden room.”

 

Xiao took in her words. He was… free? He watched the flowers open up to the sound she made on the strings. Watching them sway in the wind as the Goddess made no move to restrain him. It was very different under Master Morax’s rule than it was under Master Shǎndiàn. Less… painful.

 

Was he… really free?

 

“What…” Xiao decides to trust her this once, “Is the question?”

 

She tells him. The question itself didn’t make a lot of sense to Xiao, but maybe the answer to it will make it make sense. He follows the Goddess, Guizhong she tells him, back to the buildings.

 

She was kind and gentle and never got too close, as if fearing for his comfort. He stared at her, watching for signs of deceit while she rambled on about the flowers in the field, Glaze Lilies they’re called, but found none.

 

She was really pretty.

 

Xiao shook his head as heat crept up his neck. Moments later they were back in the town, and he spotted Rambler ahead of them looking around.

 

“Oh Rambler!” The Goddess calls out to the healer, “I think you lost something!”

 

Xiao suddenly froze as the healer ran towards them. He braced for a hit, but instead felt arms wrap around him.

 

“I was worried when I turned around and you weren’t there!” She tells him, looking him over to see if he’s hurt, “I’m glad that you are okay.”

 

Xiao froze, staring at her as she talked with… the Goddess. He was confused again. Why did she react like that? What was the feeling he got from her… care?

 

…

 

Oh…!

 

Notes:

I hoped you liked it, I've been wanting to write the chapter after this one for a while now but never knew how to lead into it, but here we are and I'm pretty happy with this chapter.

Let me know what you think as all feedback is good feed back.

See you next chapter.

Chapter 48

Notes:

Question time!... at the end heheheh

Sorry for the late chapter, I have a lot of changed coming up soon (I.E. a new job) and what not so i hadn't had a lot of time to write.

I've also been prepare to write a book of my own so start expecting some longer chapters while I pratice writing proper chapter lengths.

Anyways enjoy.

Morax has a shadow today.

 

He could fell the sharp golden eyes follow him around the moment he visited Rambler’s Teapot. He had wanted to check in because he heard about Xiao disappearing for a short time.

 

Guizhong informed him of her side of the events. Of the young Adeptus  appearing in her flower fields by the large sandbearer tree that the three Gods of the Assembly planted to mark their friendship all those years ago, just before the war and the need for the Assembly itself.

 

About how he was aiming to leave the Assembly as a whole but that she had talked to him, convinced him to give the Assembly a chance to prove what Guizhong told the young one to be true.

 

While he was not upset that Xiao finally tried making a choice for himself, the God couldn’t help but feel like he failed somehow. He had hoped that the Assembly would provide Xiao with a home, a place he could belong to and feel safe but instead, he felt the need to flee.

 

Did he feel unsafe? Or unwanted? Was he still feeling trapped? … or did someone make him feel like he didn’t belong? Hopefully it didn’t have anything to do with his connection to Chi.

 

Whatever the case, Morax will not begrudge Xiao if he still wants to leave later.

 

Morax decides to take a walk. He wanted to see how long and how far Xiao was willing to shadow him for.

 

Making his was out of the Adeptus halls he made his way to the Pavillion in the garden. All of his warriors, mortal or not, were busy preparing for the next wave of the war.

 

Glaze Lilies, Violet Grass, Silk Flowers, there was no shortage of beautiful and useful flowers growing here. Rambler and Guizhong make sure of that, the two of them would probably plant flowers everywhere if he allowed it.

 

To his surprise, the Pavillion was occupied. The familiar form of Machosius was sitting at the stone table, a number of plates spread across it. Morax didn’t recognize any of them.

 

“Testing new recipes?” Morax asks, “Mind if we join you?”

 

“?”

 

“Yes, Xiao’s been following me around today.” Morax answered the bear’s questioning growls, “I haven’t figured out what he wants from me yet.”

 

Marchosius gives Morax the okay and he takes a seat. The bear moves a plate towards him, filled with some kind of tofu and veggie mix.

 

“Thank you.”

 

Morax kept an eye on Xiao from the corner of his eye. He is really good at hiding and keeping his distance. If Morax could, he’d ask Xiao if he had any interest in being under Bonanus’s recon team, between his skills and bird like form, he’d be a real asset. But he had no interest in the idea of putting Xiao back into the war. It wouldn’t be fair to him.

 

Speaking of Xiao, he had moved closer. Morax wonders if he’s hungry.

 

“You are welcome to join us, Xiao.” Morax states, trying a dish with noodles, “Marchosius made plenty.”

 

The young Adeptus flinched when Morax had addressed him. It seems he was still unsure of the God but appeared next to an empty seat.

 

“These are new dishes the Marchosius here is tasting, would you like some?” Morax gestures to the various plates, “You don’t need to force yourself to try all of them or keep eating ones that aren’t to your tastes.”

 

Xiao scanned the plates. Was he looking for a dish with a particular ingredient? Or simply deciding which one to try first.

 

Morax waited for Xiao to pick a dish. In Morax’s opinion, they are all great so far. His friend was a real master of cooking.

 

Xiao seemed to have settled on a veggie noodle stir fry but from the small scrunch of his face, didn’t particularly like it.

 

“Is there something in particular you’d like to eat?” Morax asks, sampling one of the dumplings. “If there isn’t something here with it, we can help you get some later.”

 

The two Gods tried not to pressure Xiao into answering, knowing his issues with food, but is was admittedly awkward to eat without him.

 

“…Tofu…”

 

Marchosius rumbled in delight and hopped off his chair, reaching to grab a plate, then another, followed by two more, setting them in front of Xiao in a way that wouldn’t overwhelm him. 

 

“These four contain tofu.” Morax translated the rumbles and growls of the Stove God, “Help yourself to them but the fourth one is sweet so you don’t have to try it, given your reaction to sweets last time.”

 

Xiao mumbled a small ‘thank you’ before trying the first dish. The young Adeptus didn’t have much of a reaction before trying the second dish, and frowning. The third dish elicited a similar reaction.

 

It was apparent that Xiao was looking for a particular flavor to go with the tofu, but wasn’t finding it.

 

When Xiao went for the fourth tofu, Morax tried not to tense, expecting another… poor reaction. But it didn’t happen. Xiao instead looked a little brighter at the fast before it shifted to dissatisfaction.

 

It was curious given his last reaction to eating something sweet. Xiao seems content to simply a little bit more of the various tofu before stopping.

 

“What did you think, Xiao?” Morax questions, hoping to get the boy talking. “If you’re looking for a specific taste or flavor, just let my friend here know and he’ll try his best to make it.

 

Xiao looked down and Morax decided to try something else to keep the tension down. He grabbed a different dumpling only to regret it. The god froze with the taste of octopus assaulting his tongue.

 

Eyes darting to Xiao, the boy watching him, he forced himself to swallow the bite.

 

“I believe I have tasted everything, Marchosius.” Morax wished he had some tea, “But I will be leaving you to the rest now.”

 

He got up to leave, catching Xiao picking up the abandoned seafood dumpling and taking a bite for himself out of the corner of his eye. Before the boy followed him.

 

“So…” Morax cleared his throat, “Why were you following me today, do you need something from me?”

 

“I…have…” Xiao starts, looking away, “Questions.”

 

“I see.” Morax humms in thought, “Well, so do I. Why don’t we ask each other the questions we have.”

 

They walked in silence for a moment, Morax waiting for Xiao’s response, or even his first question.

 

“Why…” Xiao stops walking, “Why did you save me?”

 

“Hmm, for a number of reasons.” Morax told him. “But at the time, there wasn’t really a reason other than seeing that you needed help.”

 

Confusion crossed his golden eyes, seemingly not understanding Morax’s answer.

 

“My turn I suppose.” Morax moves on, “You’ve been at the Assembly for a while now. What do you think of it? Of the people?”

 

“It’s… peaceful.” Xiao says, “And no one… hurts me.”

 

“That’s good.” Morax gestures to a nearby stone bench. “I’m glad to hear that.”

 

“Will… you stop me.” Xiao spoke up after another moment of silence, “If I want to leave?”

 

“No.” Morax answered in absolution. “I never had intended to make you feel trapped here, you are free to do as you please, even if that means leaving.”

 

Xiao’s brow furrows, making it obvious that he was thinking hard about Morax’s words. 

 

“Now, how did you like the tofu?” Morax asks, “Marchosius likes to hear what people think about his food.”

 

“It was… okay.” Xiao answered, apparently not expecting the question. “Like the… feel… but… need it… sweeter.”

 

“I’ll let him know.” Morax tells him, surprised given his earlier reaction to sweet foods, “He’ll probably try to figure out a whole new recipe just for you if you let him.”

 

Morax got the feeling that Xiao was avoiding asking a question but asking others, but he won’t force the boy out of his comfort. If he needs a moment to get comfortable with the question the. Morax was happy to wait. 

 

“If I stay…” Xiao says, “Will you make… me fight?”

 

“No, not unless you want to.” Morax states, making it clear he meant every word, “That is a choice that is up to you to decide. If you want to fight then I will not stop you, but if you don’t, I will not make you.”

 

Some tension leaves Xiao’s shoulders at Morax's answer. It seems that that was one big question out of the way.

 

“Now…” Morax went into the next question, “How are you feeling? Does anything still hurt?”

 

“No…” was Xiao’s answer, “Just… Sore…?”

 

“Good, Rambler is our best healer afterall.”

 

The silence returned. Xiao had brought his knees up to his chest while Morax watched the wind sway the flowers. It was a nice day.

 

“Master… Guizhong, told me to ask you a question.” Xiao mumbles, “Before I try to leave again.”

 

“Lady Guizhong is very wise.” Morax says, “While I do not know how I’ll be able to help anymore than anyone else, I will do my best to answer.”

 

Xiao took more time to prepare for the question, his nervousness was palpable.

 

“Who… Who were…” Xiao stumbles out, “Who were you… Before meeting Master Guizhong?”

 

“I see…” The question catches him off guard. It was not something he thought of often but he understood. “Maybe it’s best to show you, follow me.”

 

Morax got up, offering a hand to Xiao, who hesitantly took it as Morax led them away from the gardens.

Notes:

Hehhehe.

I hope you enjoyed, I added the food scenes because it felt write and casual for getting Xiao fully into the scene.

As always all feedback is good feedback let me know what you think.

Bye~

Chapter 49

Notes:

Xiao gets his answer

Xiao was tense as he followed behind his Master. 

 

The God of Geo was taking him down a path he was not familiar with…

 

It wound up a mountain a good distance away from where everyone lived.

 

His Master kept his hands in Xiao’s view at all times, making no sudden movements outside of climbing over short ledges. They went at a slow and steady pace up the mountain. As if not to tire him out. Xiao only had a few instances where his Master offered a hand to help get over some particular higher spots.

 

If it wasn’t for the relaxed atmosphere his Master was exuding, Xiao would have thought he was being led into a trap of some kind.

 

‘No…’ he berates himself, ‘You promised to trust them.’

 

Other than the helping hand every so often. Master kept a constant distance between them… as if giving him plenty of chances to flee, but Xiao was curious about the answer… And why was it’s so far away… from everyone…

 

Before long they made it to the summit… wind below around him as Xiao took in the scene before him.

 

The sun was setting in the horizon, bathing the world in golden light as land as far as he could see laid before him.

 

The Assembly was below him, surrounded by farms and fields of flowers. It was… something, he didn’t know a word for it.

 

On the other side, spanning below him was his old Master’s territory, now claimed by Master. It was the first time seeing it since he was… saved. 

 

Gone were the dark clouds that blocked the sky. The sunset showed new grass growing over the once dead land, showing a promise of new life.

 

Off in the distance he could make out giant trees over the crest of a mountain range.

 

The sea on the other side offered the shadows of land in the far distance and nothing in between but the expanse of water.

 

“Quite the sight.” Master speaks up for the first time outside of offering help, “Isn’t it?”

 

Xiao nodded, hoping it was enough of an answer. But he was more confused now. Why were they up here, when there was nothing here?

 

“We are not there yet, Xiao.” Morax addressed him as he was looking around. “This is simply where I put the entrance to my Domain.”

 

“What… what about?”

 

“The one at the Assembly?” Master guessed, “That is simply one of many, one I use mostly for resting. This one is my true one.”

 

Xiao watched as his Master glowed gold and with a wave of his hand a ribbon of gold symbols snaked its way into the clouds.

 

“I moved this Domain every few centuries, just to keep the Mortals from finding it.” Morax explained, stepping onto the see through bridge. “But here is where the answer you seek is.”

 

Xiao tentatively follows his Master into the path. He was surprised to feel how solid it was under his feet and they made their way past the clouds.

 

When the puffs of perspiration dispersed Xiao was… a palace?

 

Clouds blanket the ground, shifting with each step as Morax led him through the clouds and up the steps.

 

The doors opened on their own when they approached them, startling him a bit. 

 

“It’s alright.” Master tells him when he hesitates to enter. “We don’t have far to go now, this way.”

 

Xiao followed him through another door which led to a hall with… nothing. There were no doors, no furniture, nothing. Nothing but pictures on the walls.

 

“This is where the answer of: Who was I? Resides.” The Geo god tells him. “This mural is enchanted to paint most of my life as it happens, mostly the significant parts. Why don’t you take a look at it.”

 

Xiao didn’t know how a… mural would answer the question as he glanced between the pictures on the wall and his Master. 

 

He took in the mural.

 

It was of Morax and… him. It showed the defeat of his old master and him in… the room and Master and Lady Guizhong taking him out of it.

 

Xiao looked back at Morax. The god was wearing a stoney expression as he too looked upon the pictures.

 

“The last major thing that has happened was when we rescued you.” Xiao was told, “Shortly after defeating Shǎndiàn. More events will come, I’m sure, and the mural will change in that time. Keep looking.”

 

Xiao looked at the next set of pictures. It didn’t make a lot of sense to him. 

 

It showed the God standing above his army of mortals, surrounded by various animals descending the mountains behind him.

 

Moving on, the next of was of the God, Guizhong, and the bear he’s met surrounded by food. 

 

It seemed like some kind of deal was struck between them.

 

The next was Morax, surrounded by scrolls, food, articles of clothing, and many other things, looking almost contemplative.

 

“This was shortly after meeting Lady Guizhong.” Morax explains, “She never lets me forget that the mural decided that her introducing me to culture was significant enough to be recorded.”

 

Xiao… didn’t know what that means and moves onto the next set of pictures.

 

These ones started depicting his Master in his Dragon form, standing before the depiction of Lady Guizhong in a field of torn flowers before it seems he took on a more… human looking form, taking the Goddess’s hand

 

Xiao’s eyes follow the serpentine body of Morax as it shifts into black leading to the next panel… and froze.

 

The picture was of horror, surrounded by clouds of black and grey. The dragon body of Morax shown standing over piles and piles of… what looked like body’s. His muzzle, stoic with no emotion in his amber eyes… The golden scales are painted with red. Buildings gripped in his claws.

 

Xiao took a step back at the scene before him, quickly glancing down the rest of the mural… only to see similar depictions… some with mortals… some with other dragons… and some, he could only assume were… other gods…

 

“The answer to your question.” Morax tells him, stepping up to place his hand on the mural. “Who was I before I met Guizhong.”

 

Xiao didn’t say anything, taking in every detail of the picture.

 

“Who I was… was a Monster.”

 

 Xiao was too stunned to speak.

 

“Ever since I came to be, I fought.” Morax tells him, running his hand across the mural, “I fought for survival, for power, for greed… I even fought, because at one point I found it… entertaining.”

 

Xiao couldn’t see his Master’s face, but his words held a lot of emotion.

 

“I killed plenty of beings in my fight, mortal and god alike.” Morax continues. “It mattered not to me if they ended up in my way, or if it was because I was being challenged. Even simply crossing my path was enough to be taken down by my claws.”

 

“So…” Xiao was trying to understand, “You are like me…? A… Demon?”

 

“In many ways… Yes, I suppose.” Morax answers, turning to give him an understanding smile, “But in many ways, not at all.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“You did not choose to be a monster.” Morax tells him, “Someone else made you do it.”

 

Morax turns back to the picture.

 

“I, on the other hand, not only chose to do it.” The god said, “But it was the only thing I knew… until I met Lady Guizhong.”

 

Xiao didn’t understand.

 

“The only reason I am who I am today, was because when I met Lady Guizhong, she did not flee, or bargain, or even fight, she stood there in her flowers and smiled.” Morax explains, “Upon doing so, it stumped me and gave her an opportunity to ask me a question. Which led to talking, and everything I knew was changed.”

 

Morax turns back to Xiao.

 

“The world may have forgotten my history over time, but the scars still mar my memory.” Morax carried one. “For all the bad I’ve done, I chose now to do good, and to hope I can make up for my transgressions.” 

 

“You…” Xiao was still wrapping his head around everything, “Were a monster?

 

“That’s right.”

 

“But… you’re not anymore?”

 

“Also right.”

 

“How…” Xiao hesitated to ask. “How do I… not be a monster anymore?”

 

“You were never a monster.” Morax told him, resting a hand on his shoulder, “But helping others is always a good start.”

Notes:

Let me know what you think, i'vw been busy packing to move.

Chapter 50

Notes:

Sorry for the long wait, I am in the middle of moving and i got a new jobs i've been dealing with

Hehehehehehehe, OOOOOHHHH your going to hate me for this chapter

:)

 

(PS, there's a small time skip between this chapter and the last, there's a reason I'm keeping time vague)

Xiao stared down at the valley below, his wings rustling in the wind and she stood on top of the mountain.

 

“Come on now!” Cloud Retainer brushes her feather against him, “Let the wind catch you, feel it with your feathers and let the wind guide you.”

 

Xiao would admit… he was nervous…

 

Over time his wings stopped aching, and he was asked if he wanted to fly.

 

He said yes, but now he was second guessing his choice.

 

“Are you sure this is the right way to do this?” He heard Rambler ask, “Isn't this dangerous?”

 

“Of course it is.” The crane acknowledges, “But part of flying is instinct, sometimes all you need is a little… push.”

 

Xiao felt the clawed foot hit his back and suddenly he was falling.

 

And the world slowed just for a moment.

 

But in that moment he felt his heart beat in his ear. The wind whipping his hair into his face. The wind pulling at his wings, and the ground.

 

The ground was getting closer.

 

He held out his wings, but the wind caught at the wrong angle causing him to spin in the air.

 

Xiao couldn’t help but brace for impact. His wings weren’t listening to him. The wind buffed him in spirals.

 

He closed his eyes… and waited.

 

But something wrapped around his ankle and the ground stopped coming closer.

 

“Focus!” Retainer scolds him, flying him higher. “Falling is a part of flying! Do not be afraid of the ground coming towards you!”

 

He was much higher than the mountain she pushed him off of. The ground was dizzying far below him now as she once again, allows him to drop.

 

The ground started its approach again.

 

Wind snagged his wings again, causing him to start spiraling again. Frustration bubbled up as he tucked his wings in close as he struggled in the air to pull out of the spin.

 

The ground grew closer again… 

 

This time…

 

He let it.

 

Xiao closed his eyes, listening only to the wind roaring around him and… felt it shift.

 

When he felt the winds shift again, he snapped his wings out, catching the upwards current evenly and shot into the air. It hurt as his wings pulled along the muscles of his back, but the ground was no longer getting closer when he opened his eyes again.

 

“Good!” Retainer calls out, hovering nearby, “Now feel the wind, with every feather! Trust that the wind will carry you!

 

Wobbling in the air a little, Xiao tries following the crane, flapping his wings once the air current fades. He dropped from the air a bit before gaining some air. 

 

The wind tickled his wings as he clumsily flew.

 

But every moment in the air, each flap of his wings, he got better.

 

“Impressive.” The crane tells him, staying out of his reach, “Most fledglings can, at most, glide with the current.”

 

She flew over him, his eyes tracking her movements.

 

“But can you keep it up?”

 

---

 

Xiao groaned into the ground. His body was sore and he was tired.

 

“There there, Xiao.” He heard Indarias say as she pats his head, “Bosacius is the best of all of use, that’s why he’s the Marshall.”

 

While Xiao still refused to join in any more fighting, he did accept sparring practice when he felt too restless.

 

Rambler thought it a good idea to help him regain his muscle and strength for himself.

 

And he had just lost to Bosacius… a dozen times

 

Xiao just groaned again where he laid sulking in the grass.

 

Not understanding why, the four warriors kept inviting Xiao to come along with them. He enjoys their company for the most part, but surely they had others to turn their attention too.

 

Today he had agree to follow them to the outskirts of the assembly, near steps of water. It was a very calming area even with their presence.

 

“Lunch!” He heard Bonanus call out, “Lord Marchosius made our favorites!”

 

“Come one, Xiao.” Indarias ruffled his hair, “From what I heard, Lord Marchosius made you something special.”

 

“Why?”

 

“To celebrate you.” Indarias explained, “And your progress, and from what I hear, you managed to fly the other day, take your pick.”

 

Xiao didn’t quite understand that. He was nothing special, nor did he do anything of note since being rescued… And flying is a basic requirement for his species.

 

But he wasn’t going to try and dispute it, learning rather quickly the last few times something like this happened that it wouldn’t change anything.

 

They were weird…

 

Instead of standing up, Xiao flashed over to where the other three were setting out food, a swirl of green and white following him.

 

It was strange to use his powers for the sole purpose of moving one’s self and not for anything else… but a welcomed feeling of strange all the same.

 

“Here!” Menogias held out a bowl, “This one’s yours.”

 

The bowl contained pure white tofu, slathered in a brown sauce of some kind and topped with small tan… seeds?”

 

It smelled sweet, very sweet… and his mouth watered…

 

Maybe he can finally settle his cravings…

 

He tuned out the sounds. The rushing water, the bird, his companions… even the wind itself, as he focused on his food.

 

Eating was… something he didn’t particularly enjoy, but it made the others happy to see him at least try.

 

Scooping up a piece, he tentatively brought it to his mouth and… something tickled the back of his mind in a sense of… Wrongness…

 

“Xiao!” He was tackled to the side, causing his food to fall to the ground, “Watch out!”

 

Water welled up around them in an unusual manner. It seemed to grab at them and Bonanus and Menogias redirected it away.

 

“Get to higher ground!” Bosacius called out, summoning his swords, “Indarias released a flare! Osial is attacking!”

 

Xiao could only watch as the water ran upstream, rather than its usual downstream flow.

 

He didn’t notice the wave coming right for him. The water surrounded him, grabbing at him as he tried to get away from it.

 

“Xiao!”

 

The water pulled him along suddenly, dragging him away from the others. If it wasn’t for Bonanus reaching for him, and her long claws, he would have been swept away in the current.

 

Xiao doesn’t like water… he couldn’t think right now, his heart was beating in his ears as he desperately clung to Bonanus’ claws.

 

“It’s okay.” Bonanus pulls him towards her, “It’s okay, just hold on, I’ve got you.”

 

She used her own water to push against the current, surrounding herself and him in a shield of water.

 

“I’ve got you.” She pulled him close and he clung to her. “Don’t let go.”

 

Outside the shield the water roiled in anger as a big shape appeared on the horizon. Whips of water smacked again the shield, shattering it.

 

The new torrent of water crashed against them, pulling them apart. Xiao gripped Bonanus claw, cutting his hands again the sharp edge of them as he was pulled and pushed.

 

Then…

 

He was gripping nothing…

 

The water consumed him. Spinning him and dragging him along up river as he lost which way was up. 

 

He clawed at the water, trying to get somewhere but it was everywhere. He couldn’t breathe… he couldn’t swim…

 

He… he…

 

He smacked against something hard. It hit his back, his head, and his side and darkness overtook him.

 

…

 

It was cold when he opened his eyes again. Xiao laid on the bank of a river…

 

Everything hurt… and he was tired… he didn’t know where he was…

 

It was quite… Not even the wind was blowing.

 

Closing his eyes again, Xiao expelled water from his stomach. It hurt, and smelled, and left him even more breathless as before.

 

The sound of footsteps set him on edge… but any attempt of moving result in pain. Xiao could only glare at the brown scaly legs that entered his vision.

 

They were not the Claws of Morax.

 

“Well now.” A painfully familiar voice chuckled out. “It look like my toy has returned at last.”

 

Something heavy slammed into his back, knocking his breath away again as the beast from his dreams stood before him.

 

“It’s about time you remember who your true Master is.” The beast rumbled out as it leaned closer, “Luniao.”

 

Xiao froze at the name... He could only give up as he felt the shackles of his name weigh him down again…

 

He closed his eyes as the magical chains appeared around him.

 

…

 

He knew it was too good to be true… His freedom…

Notes:

Oops, my hand slipped. Sorry Xiao.

As always, I love feedback, let me know what you think and how much you hate me know

Until next time hehehehehe

Chapter 51

Notes:

Alright we're back!

Sorry about that, I didn't mean to drop the cliffhanger then peace out for almost 2 months but moving and my new job was tough at the same time and on top of it, one of my animal companions of 8 years had to be put down so I just didn't have time nor had to mood to write.

(Worry not, it was well expected and planned for, he's in a much better place now and no longer in pain)

I also may have fallen out of Genshin at the moment but I will not stop until the story is finished!

Enjoy!

“Xiao!” Bonanus scrambled up the muddy hill, looking around, “Xiao!”

 

It’s been hours since the surprise attack from Osial and while there weren't many casualties amongst their people, the land was absolutely destroyed and flooded.

 

The only thing left untouched was the inner part of the city where the Assembly resides, but now it was overcrowded by the people seeking shelter.

 

Bosacius and Indarias were directly helping with rescue efforts and clean up. Menogias and herself were also helping, but their main task was to try and find Xiao.

 

But they’ve had no luck… and she refuses to start panicking yet.

 

“Xiao!” She called out, ignoring the pain in her throat as her voice cracked, “Please!”

 

Bonanus would find him. She’s the best scout under Lord Morax, she was one of his General, she will find him.

 

Yet she can’t even sense him. Not in the water, not nearby, nothing as she crested another hill.

 

“Bon.”

 

She lifted up large pieces of debris and racked away clumps of reeds with her claws, making sure Xiao wasn’t stuck under them.

 

“Bon.”

 

She ignored Menogias again as she kept going. She had to find him. He could be scared and hurt… she knows he doesn’t like water. Did he know how to swim…? What if he drowned?

 

“Bonanus!” Her arm was grabbed, startling her out of her thinking. “We have to stop for today, we won’t find him in the dark.”

 

“But what if he’s just a little further?” Bonanus argued, trying to ignore the burning in her eyes, “What if… What if we’re close to finding him?”

 

“We would have sensed him.” Menogais says calmly, holding onto both her arms, “You know that.”

 

“But…” she tried to think of more reasons to keep going as the tears welled up, “But… What if…”

 

Menogias pulled her into a hug.

 

“I know…” he says quietly, “But we are out of time today, Lord Morax wants everyone within the walls by the end of sundown.”

 

“I have to find him!” She pushed against her brother’s chest, “Please just a little longer.”

 

“Bon, calm down.” His grip was firm, “It’s not your fault.”

 

“Yes it is!” Bonanus couldn’t contain her tears anymore as she started crying, the guilt she was feeling became too much. “If I didn’t have these claws! Or if I hadn’t insisted he come to the picnic then he wouldn’t be lost somewhere!”

 

“It was all of our idea!” Menogias’s grip tightened on her arms but he didn’t raise his voice, “We can’t do anything about the ‘What ifs’ all we can do is look for him, and hope for the best!”

 

Menogias wasn’t one who usual let his emotions show so Bonanus was shocked to hear the level of pain in his own voice.

 

“We will find him.” Menogias said, to both her and himself, “One way or another, we will find him.”

 

Bonanus allowed herself to be pulled into a tighter hug.

 

“But right now, we need to return to Lord Morax.” His voice turning back to his usual calm tone, “We can continue again tomorrow.”

 

“Right…” Bonanus wiped her tears away, “You’re right… Let’s head back, I’m sorry.”

 

They walked back slowly, taking a different path then the one they had taken. Unspokenly keeping an eye out for Xiao and others who may have been swept away by the waters.

 

But the plains were empty. They were greeted by pools of water, muddy patches of land, and waterlogged plants.

 

The sunset glinted off the water, bathing everything in a burning gold and orange light.

 

If she didn’t actively work with the God, Bonanus would have taken it as a sign of the dragon’s anger sweeping over the land.

 

On the way back, they found plenty of mortal stragglers, but no Xiao.

 

And eventually… they made it back to the main gate…

 

By then the sun had finished setting, leaving only the light from the torches illuminating the path in front of her.

 

Bonanus stopped walking.

 

She felt as if passing the gate would mean failing Xiao. That she’s given up on him.

 

She couldn’t do it.

 

Her hands shook as she held her arms, trying to hide it. Hide the fact she was about to panic.

 

Bonanus was grew frustrated with herself. She was one of Morax’s generals, she should not be acting like this. It wouldn’t be the first time she’s had to leave men in the field with unknown conditions… So why is it different? Why can’t she carpentalize the idea?

 

‘Because he’s not one of the men.’ Came the whisper of her mind, She knew deep down, that was why…

 

Her eyes burned as tears darted welling up.

 

“Bonanus…”

 

A firm hand on her shoulder caused her to jump just a bit, too caught up in her mind to realize Lord Morax had also returned from his business outside the wall.

 

In an uncharacteristic manner, he held his arms open, offering a hug. 

 

And she accepted…

 

For as long as she’s known the dragon, he’s very caring, but also has a face of stone calmness that’s never wavered…

 

“I know you’re distressed about Xiao.” He says, letting her cry on him, “Take comfort in knowing he’s alive.”

 

“How… How do you know?” She sobbed out, “That’s he alive?”

 

Instead of answering, the God held out his hand. Sitting in his palm was a small Vision, the manifestation of their powers in human form, softly pulsing with teal light.

 

“Is this… Xiao’s?”

 

“Indeed.”

 

Bonanus watched the little gem, its light strong and steady as her hope was restored.

 

“If we are going to find him, I need you in your best condition.” Morax tells her, “Go bath, grab some food, and get some sleep.”

 

“…And if we don’t find him?”

 

“Assume he’s been taken prisoner by Osial.” Morax’s starts guiding her the rest of the way past the gate, “And prepare for a fight.”

 

The God placed his hand on her shoulder, his eyes full of confidence.

 

“We will find him.” Morax says, “One way or another, he will show up and it’ll be our job to be here, and wait for him.”

 

“Okay…” Bonanus says quietly, “Okay, I’ll have my scouts ready to start looking along the borders, for Xiao and to keep an eye on the enemies.”

 

She took another look at the glowing Vision in Morax’s hand.

 

“We will find him.”

Notes:

No answers for you! hehehehehe

I hope you enjoyed

I've started dabbling in Demon Slayer stories so anyone interested please come check it out.

As always all feedback is good feedback let me know what you think as it help me stay motivated and improve my writing!

Chapter 52

Notes:

Surprise~

I'm not dead, just busy. I decide to take a break from Genshin as a whole for a little bit (rip my Clorinde and Sethos who I didn't pull for due to this break)

Anyways, I hope you... Enjoy~

HEHEHEHEHEHHE

Xiao woke up to pain as something slammed down in the middle of his back.

 

“Well well well.” A hauntingly familiar voice rumbled out. “It seems my little pet is awake now.”

 

Before him was a man he could only recall once… from long ago.

 

One could assume he was human, if not for the wicked serpent eyes and a smile that grinned much too wide and felt wrong when looking at it 

 

…It was not a happy memory that surfaced as he gives the man a glare… Only to earn a hard smack to the jaw from the staff he was holding.

 

“You’ve grown defiant in your time under Morax.” His steps echo as he walks around Xiao still on the floor, “But it’s a trivial matter, all the more fun to simply… re-break you.”

 

Another strike, this time to his leg, left him snarling at the man.

 

“You will listen, Luniao.” The God summons chains bound to his being, “And you will kneel before me.”

 

The chains burned at the command, forcing himself up from laying on the floor to his knees before the man.

 

Why? He had to ask himself, he had a new name… So why did his old one still hold so much power over him.

 

“Come now, Luniao.” The serpentine man mocks, twirling his staff around. “I know you’re aware that names hold powers, so long as someone knows your name, they can use it against you. It is, after-all, a part of your very being.”

 

The golden collar was yanked, forcing his head up to look at the man.

 

“Now then.” The man’s grin widened, “Where should we start?”

 

Xiao braced himself as the staff spun upward, hitting his chin once more.

 

“I’ve seen inside your mind while you were under Morax. I was going to use you to spy on him.” The man tells him, “But unfortunately he never brought you into his inner ranks, you never saw plans and they never talked about anything important around you.”

 

Another hit landed on his shoulder. Xiao can’t fight back… even if he wanted to. The chains will prevent it.

 

“You were quite useless.” He tells him, “In fact, I had thought for a moment that you were so badly damaged you couldn’t even fight any more, and was just going to let Morax keep you.”

 

A blow hit his back, almost knocking him back down.

 

“But then you killed one of my offshoots, showing me that you are more than capable still.”

 

The staff pin him to the ground next.

 

“You’ve had too much freedom .” He whispers in Xiao’s ear. “We need to fix that.”

 

More people, all looking similar to the man with their serpent like features, walked into the room dragging various weapons with them.

 

“I’ll need a new weapon if I’m going to defeat Morax.” The man explained as he picked up a sword, twirling it around. “And I need you to remember what you are.”

 

No.

 

“Oh you doubt me?” The man says, “You are a monster, a demon and you always will be.”

 

Then the sword's blade was suddenly before his face. Xiao’s reflection shown in the polished metal. He stared into his own fierce yellow eyes.

 

“You killed so many people.” He was told, “ You consumed the dreams of many, simply because you enjoyed the taste of them.”

 

No.

 

“You can doubt yourself all you want.” The voice almost sounded like it was in his head now. “But it was you.

 

No… he... he didn’t want to…

 

“People do not forget easily.” The whispers tickled his ear, “They will never accept you, all they will ever see is the monster that took away dreams and lives.”

 

It… not true…

 

“Isn’t it?” The voice taunts, “Do you actually think Morax and his warriors care for you?”

 

They… they do.

 

Xiao tried to shake the thoughts from his head. He didn’t like that man listening to his mind.

 

“As long as I own you, nothing you think will be hidden from me.” he was told, the man almost seems mirthful, “and why would they care for you.”

 

…

 

“Morax is God of War!” Something sharp sliced at this skin as the man exploded in gleeful anger, “He was only planning to use you! To earn your trust so you wouldn’t defy him!”

 

No...

 

Xiao’s mind flashed to the Healer… to Ganyu… and the bear…

 

“All tricks.” The voice caused Xiao to jerk his head away, tightening the collar’s hold, “Two Adepti and a god? Have they ever actually trusted you enough to be alone with humans ?”

 

…No…

 

“The love you perceive is nothing but a sweet dream.” Another weapon left forming bruises, “Love doesn’t exist in this world, and if it did no one would love a demon like you .”

 

…

 

The sound of a whip cracking sent shivers running through him… but he didn’t care.

 

“I never did understand Shǎndiàn’s fondness for whips…” the man draws out before fire laced his back, “But I can certainly see the appeal.”

 

… He tried not to react as his true Master hurt him… the pain was familiar, almost like an old friend, but it still hurts… and he tried not to cry…

 

“Wings, Now.” His Master demand, letting his weapon drop to the ground along with the others he’d tried. “As much as you’d be more useful with them… I’d rather not have the hassle of dragging you from the skies.”

 

…He didn’t resist… allowing his wing out.

 

“My, they did great work getting these back in shape.” His Master’s hands made him quiver as he ran his finger along the feathers, “I always did find it a shame that Shǎndiàn almost destroyed them.”

 

His Master’s hand suddenly grabbed his wings near the base, sending panic and pain through him.

 

“I won’t destroy them, if that’s what you’re worried about.” His Master tells him, “But having them be useful would only cause problems for me.”

 

He starts squirming as his Master starts pulling his wings. Each movement caused his chains to tighten and rattle. 

 

Not knowing if he was screaming or not he tried to fight back, to stop his Master… but he couldn’t. All he could do was deal with the burning white pain stemming from his back… suddenly he heard a pop… and pain shot through his core as his wings were let go, dropping limply to his sides.

 

He couldn’t help but stare at the wing he could see… he tried moving it but it felt… disconnected. Pain shot through him when he tried moving it… only causing the wing to twitch.

 

“Don’t worry.” His Master tells him, stepping off him, “I didn’t rip them off, I need you at your best and I can’t have you off kilter by taking something oh so important to your being.”

 

He could only stare… tears streaking down his cheeks from the pain.

 

“Well then, let me just tie those together.” His Master pulled out a rough looking rope, “So you're not tripping on them, then it’s time for you to go to your cell. I left you a surprise there.”

 

He did nothing as his Master and two of his… offshoots... forced his wings together and tied them together. They felt heavy on his back, pulling at the skin.

 

He couldn’t react any more… there’s no point… not anymore…

 

The ground below him glowed for a moment before he fell through it, landing in something… not quite soft, but not hard.

 

Sitting up he looked around… the smell getting to him before he could register what he was surrounded by…

 

He panics, kicked back until he hit the wall, biting into his arm as he tried kicking them away.

 

Blood welled up from his arm… before rubbing his face in it. He wanted to smell something… anything else as he closed his eyes tightly.”

 

Shaking, he tried making himself as small as possible not caring that his action sent waves of pain through him.

 

He won't. He won't. He won’t.

 

He will not give in to the knowing desire of what’s before him.

 

He will fight the temptation… he… he won’t. Shaking his head as drool mixed with blood.

 

Those… damned flowers… filled with the sweet scent of dreams…

 

He won’t.

Notes:

Yes, I woke up and chose violence, what else am I supposed to do when I finally found a solution to my near decade of back problems and pain. I'm feeling great!

Anyways, I'm not back full time but I did figure I should update this real quick since I am slowly getting back into Genshin in anticipation to Natan. (I sense another angsty boi soon)

I hope you enjoyed it, as always all feedback is good feedback, let me know what you think.

See you next chapter~

Chapter 53

Notes:

Alright, Natlan's out, time to get a move on with this story.

Sadly I still won't be returning to my usual once a week schedule with this one yet, but I'll try to update more frequently.

Anywho... Kinich has been targeted and once I know more about him, I shall hurt him!

Maybe...

I may have lost my mind a little bit when I decided to get back into Genshin fully...

Enjoy~

Morax lands on the barest patch of land surrounded by the torrential sea.

 

Osial had requested a meeting and while Morax bared no weapons, he didn’t let his guard down as the Sea serpent’s head arose from the waters before him.

 

“How nice of you to agree to meet me, Morax.” The hydro being hisses out, “I half expected you to ignore my summons.”

 

“I almost did.” Morax tells him, watching every move, “But you said you had information. What do you want?”

 

“Always to the point.” Osial’s head bobbed, “I want help defeating that snake, Chi.”

 

That caught Morax’s attention… But he won’t let his guard down…

 

“And why is that?” Morax asks tersely, “You just attacked my people not too long ago, you’ll need to give me more than that.”

 

“That was Chi’s idea.” Osial admits, no hint of guilt in his voice, “He made a promise that I could expand my waters all the way up to his territory if I helped him.”

 

“And what changed?”

 

“He lied!” The sea serpent snarled out causing the waves to rear up. “He said if I helped retrieve his pet, he’d send me help to take you down.”

 

“His pet?” Morax asks, skeptically, “I was not aware of any new creatures in my lands.”

 

“The bird child.” Osial explains, dismissing his torrential waves, “I don’t really care what you call each other on land.”

 

Morax felt his blood run cold. ‘The bird child’ could only mean Xiao.

 

Finally a lead.

 

“And what do I get out of it for taking out Chi?” Morax asks, “What will you give me?”

 

“Time.” Osial’s neck wiggled down to face him, “And Peace for a few centuries. I’ll even enter one of those contracts with you if you want to work out more details, but I want that snake defeated.”

 

“Very well.” Morax summons his contract, “In exchange for my help and the information, I request five centuries of no conflicts from you and your territory.”

 

“Two centuries.” Osial’s form wavered in anger, “This is a war after all.”

 

“Three centuries.” Morax counter offered, “I will be cleaning up your mess… After all.”

 

“Fine.”

 

“Then let it be set.” Morax signed the contract, “Or face the wrath of the rock.”

 

“You rocks mean nothing in the face of my waves.” Osial mocks, also placing his mark upon the contract, “But I’ll keep my peace for now.”

 

Morax watched as Osial’s head slithered back under the waves… He was honestly expecting this meeting to last longer but a slighted God is easy to please… Even if he can’t trust him.

 

Taking to the sky in his dragon form, Morax heads back to the nearly recovered assembly. 

 

Now that they had a lead on Xiao, it was time to take action. Despite being requested for ‘help’ Morax was going to take matters into his own hands.

 

Since the attack, only a third of his people have been put to the task of rebuilding. While it was slower to have then it was necessary.

 

They worked hard on restoring the damaged building. Replanting the destroyed farms and clearing the damaged crops fields.

 

It had take time but they were going to be fine…

 

The rest were training and preparing for fighting. Honing their skills and sharpening their weapons, knowing that the call to action was on the horizon.

 

All they needed was a target.

 

And they had one now.

 

Landing, he quickly shifted and sent out his call for summons before making his way to his war table.

 

Scatter about the surface were the known movements of all his enemies and allies.

 

While there were still three other main contenders amongst the many gods that don’t have a lot of back, soon there would only be three.

 

Both The Assembly and the Great Bird of Chenyu have played on the defensive, defending their territories from attack while everyone else took each other out.

 

Only retaliating when needed.

 

Chi and Osial have been the main forerunners of the war, wiping out those who would not submit to their powers, or turning other Gods against each other…

 

That was about to change.

 

He needed a plan because once Chi is defeated a power vacuum will form which will change the tides of the war. Lesser Gods and monsters will seek a rise in power and could potentially destroy the nation they were aiming to rule over.

 

“… Morax…” Guizhong glides in with a serious look on her face, “What happened? And why are you angry?”

 

He flicked his eyes up to her… No doubt his face remains as impassive as ever, but his eyes were probably another story.

 

“I’ll wait till everyone gets here.” He tells her, returning his gaze back to the maps, “I have bad news, and good news…”

 

“It’s the other way around, Dear…”

 

“Not in this case.”

 

Guizhong didn’t push as she took her seat.

 

It wasn’t long before Marchosius and his Generals all arrived, waiting for him to start.

 

“Thank you all for coming.” Morax addresses them, “As you know Chi has been becoming more active as the days go by, landing small attack along our borders.”

 

The others watched as he moved the enemy pieces along the borders of the maps.

 

“Today, with my meeting with Osial, I learned some important news.” Morax continued, using his powers to create another, new piece. One that unmistakably represented their missing friend. “That has decided what our next step is.”

 

The other watched, some worried, some eager for answers, as he placed the piece… Right in the heart of Chi’s territory.

 

“Chi has taken Xiao.” He revealed, “We will work on bringing him back, but I can not say what state he will be in when we reach him. We need to prepare.”

 

“Prepare for what, exactly?” Bosacius crosses his arms, looking upset, “You can’t expect us to just kill him right?”

 

“No.” He refuted, “I would very much like to save him, but we need to prepare in case we are unable to save him.”

 

Morax leaned over the table well aware his eyes were burning gold.

 

“We must prepare to fight. We must prepare for War.” He announced, unwavering, “We will be landing the first strike this time.”

 

“Chi will not go down easily.” Guizhong adds in, “It’s best to make sure everything is planned for, and prepared for.”

 

“Right.” Bosacius and the general nods along, “We will start preparing the men.”

 

‘To save Xiao’ went unspoken as the meeting continued.

 

“Right.” Bonanus stood and started pointing at the maps, “So here….”

Notes:

Hope you enjoyed, I know the story's been slow but we are getting there, I promise.

Also, as some of you may know... or maybe not, I am a completionist in my Genshin game, I have finally 100% every. Single. Area. and I mean every single one... Outside Natlan anyways, and I'm, only missing two character because I took a break when Sethos and Clorinde came out... Oh well but hey, I'm back into the game.

I also have all the fishing achievements because I hate myself. 2000 fish? Never again, please.

Anyways, as always, please let me know what you think as all feedback is good feedback.

See you next chapter~

Chapter 54: Chapter 54

Notes:

Alright well... I got done editing a lot faster than I planned for how many chapters I had so... yeah new chapter. I finished it a lot faster as well.

Also, update for those curious... Everything is at 100% and I mean everything, I can no longer find any chest, puzzle or anything anymore outside of quests... all nations, all subareas, 100% and beyond... including Natlan

Hehhehehehe, enjoy.

Discord server link at the end chapter note for you guys~

Enjoy

The first attack landed hard, shaking the ground.

 

The sky was bathed by red and the clouds turned black while rock after rock rained down.

 

Morax would not forgive Chi for taking one under his protection.

 

They had a well thought out plan…

 

Morax and three of the General would make contact, hitting the land fast and hard to stir up Chi and his pieces. All while Bonanus and her scout and Rambler and her field healers will evacuate the civilians trapped in the serpent’s plot. 

 

Casualties were a part of war… But Morax did his best to avoid hitting the village too much.

 

Soon, smoke started wafting up from the ground as his men met Chi’s lizards head on.

 

An attack bounced off his jade shield, which would have been impressive since he was hundreds of feet in the air… But it was from Chi himself.

 

“Bold of you to start the fight against me.” Chi snarled, long serpentine body coiling behind him. “You’re normally on the defensive, waiting out the fighting… What changed?”

 

“You have kidnapped someone under my protection.” Morax states with faux calm, “I would like him back.”

 

“All this for that insignificant tool?” Chi mocks, “He can’t mean that much to you… At least not enough to warrant such an attack.”

 

“Oh no… you misunderstood.” Morax shifts to his own dragon form, “We were always going to attack you… But once you stole Xiao, you angered not only me… but all of my generals.”

 

Bosacius’ lightning flashed behind him, silhouetting  him and illuminating Chi…

 

“Xiao just gave us a reason to attack early…” Morax taunts, “Surrender and give him back.”

 

“No.” Chi darts forward, teeth gnashing and chomping as the Serpentine God tries biting Morax’s throat out. “He’s mine! I own his name and he’s the perfect little tool for this war!”

 

“I will not argue with a tyrant.” Morax snaps his teeth back, “He is more than you think.”

 

Words were useless after that. Both of them high in the air, snarling as they attacked each other.

 

Claws and teeth and wrapping coils around each other.

 

A dance to the death.

 

Morax wiggles out of Chi’s bind and drops his power of flight, landing on top of the Serpent's body, crashing them into the mountains.

 

Dirt flew as the wraithed on the ground.

 

Morax was no long the God of War and Geo in this moment… No, He was now a beast, fighting for survival and…

 

He. Will. Win.

 

Twisting away from Chi’s claws and teeth, Morax snagged Chi’s throat with his own feet and rolled, snapping the Serpent’s neck.

 

“You think you’ve won?” Chi chuckled manically, “You haven’t killed me yet! Only a part of me!”

 

Morax used one of his raining stones to pin and seal the faucet before him, preventing the energy from returning to Chi’s main body.

 

…

 

Morax figured Chi would use only a part of him to try and take him down…

 

The energy in the air shifted as streams of divine energy gathered at the edge of the village.

 

“You think you can defeat me so easily?” 

 

Another piece of Chi slams into him.

 

“I have more energy than you!”

 

Chi’s claws racked across Morax’s side.

 

“I have more elemental power then you!”

 

Teeth snagged Morax’s claw.

 

“I am better than you!”

 

Claws sliced through his mane of fur.

 

“You will not win!”

 

Their battle took to the skies again. Blood joining the stone rain.

 

Morax was fine, however, it was all a part of the plan.

 

He half-heartedly fought back against this Chi, giving the appearance of waning strength, but Morax was just stalling.

 

“I will not ask again.” Morax kicks the Serpent back, cutting his stomach, “Return Xiao.”

 

“You think he wants to return now?” Chi snarls, “You may have giving him false hope of freedom after ‘rescuing’ him from Shǎndiàn’ but he is nothing more than a beast! A monster of my own creation! He will only respond to me!”

 

A flare was sent up, drawing both Gods’ attention.

 

“You came here to retrieve my little pet!” Chi laughs out, slamming Morax into the ground, “But I doubt you’ll want him back, he’s no longer the same Adeptus you tried to save!”

 

Chi focuses on the area where the flare came from.

 

“I’ll show you!” Chi’s maw splits into a wide grin, “Say goodbye to your generals!”

 

Not a moment later a small green flash appeared briefly in the distance… right before three rough green slices decimates half the battlefield in an instance.

 

Mortal, Adepti, and offshoots of Chi were all thrown into the air.

 

Xiao’s appearance marks another part of the plan completed, drawing him out whether as an ally or an enemy… Unfortunately it looks like he’s an enemy at the moment. No matter, he trusts his Generals and their plan. 

 

Now…

 

Morax turned to face Chi head on, no longer needing to stall…

 

It was his turn…

 

Morax striked fast while the other Gif was distracted, tearing out his throat with his claw, sealing that piece away with another stone…

 

Hopefully Chi wouldn’t notice Morax’s true role in this fight…

 

“I’m sure you’re growing tired of this.” Another Chi says, slamming into Morax’s side. “You can’t win against me, just surrender… I might let some of your people live.”

 

More strong slashes of Anemo cut through the land, tearing through everything.

 

Whether Xiao was aware of it or not… If he still has his awareness… He was helping them as he tore through the fights…

 

Afterall, that’s why it’s raining stones. Each one that lands on a piece of Chi that is defeated, preventing his energy for regathering by sealing the energy away.

 

Elemental energy saturates the land, allowing elemental attack to be fired around the field as Xiao’s attack was met with the stone walls of Menogais.

 

Morax grins through bloodied teeth as he tears through Chi’s body once more. Watching Xiao fighting he notices something… Chi is not as in control as the God may think.

 

Morax turns to the next manifestation of Chi. He has his own fight to focus on. He just needs to keep Chi’s main attention on him and him alone.

 

“I can do this all century.” Chi smugly mocks, “Can you? Or better yet? You men?”

 

“You underestimate me and my forces.” Morax snarls back, ready to meet the serpent head on once more, “And that will be your undoing.”

 

Morax knew, without a doubt, he would be the victor. Chi may look at the big picture, but he only focuses on specific spots and doesn’t take in the whole image.

 

And it was that way of thinking that is making their plan work so far.

Notes:

Here's the Discord link, bare with me... I've never hosted a community server before so I don't have much in it right now.

https://discord.gg/a3FmMd6uyz

Anyways, I hoped you enjoyed the chapter, let me know that you think as all feedback is good feedback.

I'll try to get the next chapter out soonish

See you next chapter~

Chapter 55

Notes:

Make sure you go back and read Chapter 54, due to me putting the chapter over the A/N I don't think people got notified that it was updated even as I tried fixing that.

Anyways, Uploading this is currently making run late to work but I wanted to get it out.

Enjoy~

Bosacius watched his men fight. They’re plan has been working as expected. Their goal was to kill as many pieces of Chi as possible, and gather his energy back into one place.

 

The second part was to try and get the pieces under the raining stones Lord Morax is throwing around. They are blessed to act as seals.

 

The idea was that if you could not complete one, then do the other.

 

… And the third part was to find Xiao… or draw him out into battle…

 

He, along with Menogias and Indarias would be taking care of trying to draw him out, while Bonanus, after evacuating the Chi’s civilians, would head to Chi’s domain to try and find the little bird there…

 

Grunting as a serpent grappled with him, he kicked another coming up from behind him into the path of Morax’s rock, leaving the serpent sealed and petrified. He stabbed his sword into the one he’s wrestling, killing it.

 

Bosacius would never admit this to anyone… But he was worried for his Lord. Lord Morax role was the most crucial in this fight, but it also leaves his attention and focus divided on more than one thing.

 

Watching the reptilians fighting in the corner of his eye did little to ease it… but that’s why there’s so many parts to it.

 

Clapping his four hands, Bosacius unleashes a strong Electro attack, vaporizing several lizards.

 

Menogias had another dozen trapped in rocky restraints, allowing the serpents to be crushed under the sealing stone.

 

A large Pyro attack cleared out a good portion of attacking lizards, giving them a moment to breather.

 

They just never seem to stop coming…

 

“Marshal Vritras!” One of Bonanus’ scouts run up to him, “I have word from General Chizapus! All citizens have been evacuated! She says to enact the ‘next part’”

 

“Message received!” Bosacius affirmed, spearing two more serpents coming up behind the scout, “Clear out of the battle for now and regroup with the rest of the men!”

 

The scout scrambles away, ducking around the monsters and falling rock.

 

Bosacius made eye contact with Indarias and he released a condensed burst of Pyro that exploded high in the air.

 

The flare had a few roles to play in their plans.

 

First, to inform all warriors that they were to fall back and regroup, waiting for their next orders.

 

And second…

 

Bosacius braced against the strong currents of wind that suddenly ripped through the ground around them.

 

The second was to draw attention to themselves, in hopes of Xiao showing up… and he did…

 

Standing bent over himself was the Adeptus they sought…

 

Only…

 

They might be too late…

 

Golden eyes crazed with red, heaving breathing. Signs of abuse and torture. His wings sagged on his back resting against the group, being dragged through the dirt… and divine chains enclosed around his limbs and neck, burning a bright reddish-gold… the chain-links fading behind him…

 

“Xiao…”

 

In his hands was a decorated, sharp bladed polearm, its staff blood red. Its head rested against the ground, dripping blood into the soil. He held it limply, like he was about to drop it.

 

“Xiao!” Bosacius calls out, gaining his attention. He’ll need to be careful, “Xiao… It’s okay now…”

 

Xiao’s face jerked towards him. With his face no longer hidden in the shadows of his hair Bosacius could see smears of purple across his lips…

 

Was that…?

 

Before he could question himself about it Xiao roar of anger and despair, draggin the pole in a large arch, unleashing another wave of powerful Anemo.

 

It tore lines into the ground, throwing up dirt, warriors, and serpents…

 

The little Adeptus charged forwards in a spiral of green energy, nearing impaling Bosacius with the spear.

 

“Xiao please!” He grabbed onto the boy with all four hands, holding him in place, “Don’t fight us!”

 

His words were met with a snarl as the boy tried to wiggle away. His pupils keep dilating and undilating every other moment…

 

“Come on, please!”

 

“Bo!”

 

 Just as Indarias called out Xiao managed to sink his teeth into one of his hands. A whirlwind spring up around them as Bosacius dodged a thrust from Xiao… The crunch of flesh met his ears… yet it wasn’t him who was stabbed…

 

Turning his head he saw the dissipating body of one of Chi’s pieces was the victim of Xiao’s attack.

 

The smell of burning flesh met his nose and Xiao charged again… Crying out in pain…

 

“Damn it…”

 

Their weapons clashed, sending sparks flying. 

 

More wind whipped around them as Menogias and Indarias kept the serpents off his back.

 

Xiao was… strong, forcing him to take a step back. The energy that was coming off of the boy was concerning… but if he did eat more of those flowers… then it was expected.

 

One good thing he observed as he blocked another attack was that Xiao wasn’t attacking to kill… Just blindly charging and unleashing his Anemo energy in random directions.

 

“Alright…” Bosacius says, after being forced back next to the other two general, “Let’s fight!”

 

“Are you sure?” Indarias shouts over the battle, “I thought we were going to do everything in our power to stop him first?”

 

“I am!” He charges forward, meeting Xiao head on, staring into his red tinged eyes. “We need to dispel the excess energy from his system.”

 

Bosacius grinned as another whirlwind took out more of the battlefield. He doesn’t think the other two have noticed yet but Xiao was trying to fight off the mindless rage and undermine Chi’s control. It looks like an accident, especially when the wind swirls with the other elements being thrown around…but most of the casualties from Xiao’s elemental attacks were of Chi’s pieces.

 

“Oof.”

 

Or maybe not. Seeing as Xiao just full on rammed against his stomach full force. 

 

Whether or not it was just coincidence or Xiao actually trying to fight against the control… he was given an idea…

 

If it’s what he ate that is causing the problems then… raring an arm back, Bosacius landed it right in Xiao’s own stomach.

 

The boy flew backwards, seeing as the punch had enough force to probably break a mountain. Xiao bounced off the ground and into a nearby rock wall.

 

The wind picked up again, aiding Xiao’s next lunge, his spear poised to strike. Bosacius braced to block… Only for Xiao to just drop half way into his attack, spewing a mess of purple and petals… It must have taken his body a moment to register the punch he landed…

 

Then Xiao was back in his face, dropping low and sweeping his legs. They connected with the back of Bosacius knees causing him to tip backwards.

 

Shit!

 

Before he could correct himself Xiao landed on top of him, spear striking down.

 

…

 

The spear missed, sinking into the ground next to his head rather than through his head. Xiao kneeled on his chest, breathing heavily.

 

“Come on, Xiao…” Bosacius calmly says, “You can fight it, you’re stronger than that.”

 

Something landed on his face, he thought it was water or even sweat at first… but looking at Xiao’s face… It was tears.

 

Xiao’s red rimmed eyes dropped them even as the took his heavy breaths through his rage filled face…

 

Just as Bosacius was getting hopefully… Xiao jerked away as the chains around him burned bright and Xiao’s Adeptal Energy surged…

Notes:

I hoped you like it. I'm trying to get back into a regular schedule with this story so I can get it done before starting another one.

As always let me know what you think, all feedback is good feedback

See you next chapter~

If you haven't heard, I made a discord, the link is in the last chapter but I'll post it here again just in case.

https://discord.gg/a3FmMd6uyz

Chapter 56

Notes:

This story hit 60,000+ hits! Thanks to you guys!

New chapter for you guys, just before I do my overtime shift too.

I also realized I had left some plot holes somewhere and will be working to fill those in this chapter

Time to see another POV of this fight.

I hope you enjoy!

Bonanus ran as fast as she could towards the swirling mess of Elemental Energy.

 

Her original part of the plan was to sneak into Chi’s domain to find Xiao, but seeing as there were no other Adepti serving under the Serpent God, the Anemo Energy could only belong to one person.

 

She needed to get there. She needed to help Xiao.

 

Slashing through every enemy she came across with her claws.

 

Nothing was going to stop her this time. Bonanus wasn’t going to let him suffer any longer, not if she could stop it!

 

Charging full speed forward, she bypassed a rather large lizard, making it angry. Instead of turning to fight it however, she left it to one of Lord Morax’s raining rocks.

 

Dodging around another enemy, she sliced along its under belly. Chi’s pieces were getting bigger and stronger the longer the fight lasted, but they expected that.

 

Just as she could make out the are where her siblings were fighting in, she was stopped by a wall of ice, causing her to slide to a stop.

 

“Looks like our little mouse has returned.” Cresting the hill towards her was not a serpent, nor did they look a lot like Chi’s human form“All this fighting… Just for one little bird?”

 

“You must be Qingce.” Bonanus stated, “The ‘Missing’ General of Shǎndiàn, what are you doing with Chi?”

 

“Very clever.” Qingce says, calmly walking like there wasn’t a battle going in, “But I was never under Shǎndiàn, I was simply on loan to her to make sure she didn’t kill our pet.”

 

Bonanus fought back a growl at the term they called Xiao. She needs information first and foremost… but kept her weapon on the verge of summons.

 

“As for why I’m with Chi…?” They summoned their own weapon, “Well you could say I am him… but also not. The first piece he ever made in his image and power. Almost like a child in a sense.”

 

“So you’re just another piece of him.” She didn’t phrase it like a question, “Just another obstacle in my way.”

 

Bonanus charged forward, claymore in hand, and swung for an attack. Even if Qingce was another piece of Chi, there was something different then the other pieces. She’ll need to be careful.

 

Her Hydro was useless against his Geo and Cryo, but she was evenly matched with his fighting. Blocking the Minor God’s blows and dodging his elemental attacks.

 

“Why go so far to save him?” Qingce asked during their clash, “He is but one Adeptus, barely worth the effort and lives.”

 

“He was under the protection of Lord Morax.” Bonanus lunged forward, “You took him from our land, killed our people, and attacked our borders. It's more than just him, but we are here for him.”

 

Her blade caught his side for a moment, causing her to grin. 

 

“You gave us a reason to fight.”

 

“But we didn’t attack you.” Qingce stats as he freezes her leg to the dirt, “It was Osial who launched the attack dragging the poor bird away, it was you who invade my land and spied on us, we were simply defending.

 

Bonanus broke the ice as the Minor God shrugged.

 

“As for the border? Well this is war after all, we all want more land.”

 

She blocked his blows. Qingce clearly didn’t think she was a threat to him, which will be his undoing.

 

She just needs an opening.

 

“Don’t try to find loopholes with me, don’t forget who I serve.” Bonanus let out a wave of water, “Osail attacked us? Sure but he’s already admitted to your broken dealings with him, meaning you orchestrated the attack taking Xiao away.”

 

She dodged a wave of earth followed by ice shards.

 

“And what of your spying?” Qingce asked, trapping her blade in a wall of earth, “What’s your reasoning for that?”

 

“My job.” 

 

Bonanu managed to land a good hit on him, causing the God to stagger. She could see it now, he’s considering her a threat now. Good.

 

“You want to save him?” Qingce concludes with a smug tone in his voice, “You are just a scout, and that pet is currently fighting against your Lord’s highest General at equal strength, what can you hope to do?”

 

Huh…?

 

Bonanus paused for half a second, not sure if she should be proud that the God didn’t seem to know that much about them… Or insulted at the thought they think she’s not able to do anything.

 

No matter, the anger that flooded her system allowed her to dodge the oncoming attack.

 

“I will help him anyway I can.” Bonanus stomped her foot, unleashing a torrent of waves, “There is nothing you can make him do that will stop me from doing that!”

 

“Are you sure about that?” Golden chains appeared in his hands, “What if I have him kill all three of the General? Or even have him go back to your ’Assembly’ and have him kill all the mortals there? Would you still want to save him then?”

 

“Yes.” He wasn’t expecting that answer. And it was the truth. Qingce’s words would never get under her skin because she knows better. She knows who Xiao really is. “Marshall Vritras and the others also think the same. We all came into this fight knowing we might need to fight him, and we will stop him. We will save him from you… and if we have to, from himself.”

 

“Very well then.” Qingce’s voice was cold as the chains started glowing, “Don’t cry when their deaths are on your… claws. But you might be alive long enough to see the results anyways.”

 

He yanked on the chains and in the distance an explosion of Anemo energy tore across the battlefield in ragi by whirlwinds. It cleared the smoke and the haze of the war away, bringing along the fresh scent of dirt and iron.

 

Bonanus was furious now as Qingce chuckle at the results.

 

“Seems someone was hurt badly.” He mocks her, “That’s too bad.”

 

It took everything in her power not to react. Not to the goading words but rather the slight surge of Geo energy above her.

 

“Now, I guess it’s time to kill you.”

 

“I’m not the one dying today.”

 

Both of them let out attacks.

 

Her water being frozen in an instant but that was fine, it blocked his view from her as she ducked around his Geo attack. Using her claw she slice off a shard of ice and smacked it with the side of her sword, sending it straight toward Qingce’s blind spot.

 

He staggers, slumping backwards and directly under the rather large seal Lord Morax dropped for her.

 

Taking a deep breath she tried to calm her nerves. The fight wasn’t too bad, just not one she could win on her own. She was thankful to Lord Morax noticing her need while still taking down the more powerful pieces of Chi.

 

Plus sealing off Qingce means that a good chunk of Chi’s powers couldn’t return to him.

 

It was a turning point.

 

Once Bonanus was ready she resumed heading towards her siblings. She didn’t take the words Qingce said to heart, just there was no trace of a lying in them.

 

It made her worried.

 

Climbing over the last bastion she was able to see all four of her siblings.

 

Menogias and Indarias were doing their best again the serpents converging on their locations but they looked rather ok… But Bosacius…Bosacius wasn’t okay. He was holding onto Xiao with two arms, a spear through his chest, trying to stop the wounded boy from writhing too much.

 

She didn’t know who was more hurt between the two, just that there was a lot of blood.

 

“Bo!”

 

His head snapped to her and a look of semi relief crossed his face. 

 

“I’m fine.” He told her, patting her messed up hair with one of his free arms, “I made sure he didn’t hit anything vital, I just needed to stop him jumping around.”

 

Just as she was about to relax a bit, something heavy and big slammed down next to them, throwing up dirt and rock and shaking the ground.

 

It was Lord Morax!

Notes:

It's sometimes disheartening when you return to a story actively to finish it off... then realize there's still at least another 10 chapters to write just to get everything you want in there for the ending.

But worry not, I shall finish it, because I want to!

Anyways, Hope Morax is ok~

As always let me know what you think, all feedback is good feedback.

See you next chapter~

Join my Discord, Link on my profile!

Chapter 57

Notes:

I'll admit, I almost skip this story for this round of updates, just wasn't feeling it but I managed to get the chapter out anyways.

Time for fighting... kinda

Enjoy~

Morax stood. Facing Chi in his full form that towered well above him with no hesitation. He was certainly not as injured or tired as he appeared to be.

 

It was time to end this fight.

 

The rain of rock spears have ceased falling as the two dragons faced off.

 

“Do you truly think you will win against me, Morax?” Chi taunts, “Do you think you have enough power? Your generals couldn’t even defeat my little pet.”

 

That was true… but defeating Xiao wasn’t the goal.

 

“Compared to others I have won against.” Morax says incredibly calmly, “You are not as strong as you believe yourself to be.”

 

The effects were as expected. Chi was enraged.

 

“You lie to yourself!” Chi snarls, his body coiling angrily around behind him, “I am stronger than you, how else would I have been able to knock you down, over and over again!”

 

Morax didn’t respond, preparing himself for the final blow.

 

“Even if you were, you can’t kill me.” Chi snapped his jaw and golden chains appeared, “You’ll take the little bird you’re trying so hard to save out as well.”

 

Out of the corner of his eye Morax could see that Xiao started struggling against Bosacius’ hold again, no doubt the chains causing some kind of pain.

 

“Xiao will be freed before that.”

 

“How do you plan to do that exactly?” Chi snubs his chin at him, “I, alone, hold his true name. There is no way of you contending for control over him.”

 

It’s true. They had no plan to free Xiao. The magic involved is too strong to simply break the hold Chi had over the other nor do they know the extent of the hold over the young Adeptus. The use of Xiao’s true name is a last resort, but that involved getting Chi to slip up by saying the name.

 

“I don’t need his true name to free him.” Morax states, “But Xiao will be freed from your control.”

 

“We’ll see about that.” Chi yanked on the chains and Xiao broke out of Bosacius’ hold. “Kill them.”

 

But that seemed to be the only thing he still had energy for. He collapsed in between him and Chi, his golden eyes bloodshot and tired as the chains seemed to burn him.

 

Bowing his head, Morax decided to take a closer look. Xiao was definitely not in a good condition, he could only hope once this was over, the young bird wouldn’t be set too far back…

 

Morax hopes the shared look they had gives him enough hope to last a little longer but his gaze was drawn away as Chi growled in anger.

 

“You dare look away!” Chi’s voice turned angrier and the chains around Xiao burned brighter, “ I said kill them.”

 

Morax paid Chi no mind. Someone willing to make others fight his battles if not worth his attention. He watched as Xiao forced himself to stand, panting from the pain and effort. But he just stood there, the small Adeptus made no move to attack anyone.

 

Could it be that he no longer has a weapon? No, Xiao’s fought back with less…

 

Chi glowered down at Xiao, obviously very upset that his orders were being ignored. Xiao just shook his head even as the flesh around the chains started smoking and burning.

 

A mental link? That could be a problem.

 

Morax kept his eyes on Xiao as the young bird pulled something out of the remains of his clothes… something purple.

 

“Xiao!” Morax instinctively orders upon realizing what he had. “Don’t!”

 

The look in Xiao’s eye made him pause for just a moment, allowing the bird to eat the dream flower causing Chi to let out a goading laugh.

 

It was strange.

 

Xiao’s eyes, while tired and red, were also strangely calm… like he’s figured out a solution or was acting on confidence. Something he’s never had before.

 

Morax took a step back, keeping his eyes on both Xiao and Chi, preparing for whatever Xiao had planned. With a flick of his tail, his generals knew to prepare for… something.

 

Xiao, whose Adeptal Energy was increasingly low, suddenly gained a new burst of energy, most likely from the flower. The energy swells up but the bird did not attack them. Instead he gripped the golden collar around his neck.

 

“What?!” Chi’s smugness turns to confused rage, “What do you think you are doing?”

 

Xiao violently shook his head and he kept pulling the collar with a growl.

 

“You are to do as I command!” Chi raged out, his stomps shaking the land, “I hold your name!”

 

“That- That’s.” For the first time since this fight, Xiao spoke, his voice rough and strained, “That is not… My name anymore!”

 

In a surge of power the golden collar broke, shattering into pieces that disappeared. Everyone froze in shock at the unexpected action. Panting, Xiao grabbed one of the golden manacles around his wrists and broke it as well.

 

“I…” He pants out, anger and pain evident on his face as he grabs the other manacle. “I am Xiao!”

 

The manacle broke. The gold chains tying Xiao to Chi faded. Morax lowered his head as Xiao took unsteady steps towards them, catching the boy with his snout.

 

“You did well.” Morax rumbled out as Xiao clung to his face, “Rest, We’ll take care of the rest.”

 

“…I… Promised…”

 

Ah. Morax understood now as he passed the now unconscious Xiao to Bonanus, signaling their retreat. He can now focus on Chi now. Not that the fight will last much longer.

 

“How!” Chi snarled out, “How did you overcome my control over him!”

 

“I did nothing.” Morax dodged Chi’s swipe. “That was all on him.”

 

“Tell me how!”

 

“Xiao made a contract.” Morax flies up, getting ready. “A contract with not only with himself, but with me. In the form of a promise.”

 

Morax looked down at Chi’s massive form. The Serpent God was too angry to realize that most of Morax’s energy was… elsewhere.

 

“The end is now.”

 

The clouds above him suddenly dispersed, being pushed away from the force of the largest stone spear he’s ever made. 

 

Chi could only watch as it fell towards him, kicking up strong winds and dust. It was aimed for his heart and Chi could do nothing about it.

 

The land shook once more as it welcomed its new mountain. Busy rolled up from the impact but once it was settled, Chi was no more. His body, dead but his spirit sealed.

 

The fight was over, and Morax was the winner as expected.

 

Now to deal with more important matters.

 

Landing at the base camp just inside their border… well there are no borders now that Chi was defeated, he looked over the men.

 

They didn’t take a lot of mortals into this battle.

 

“Lord Morax.” Menogias steps up to him as he shifts to human form, “I have the reports ready if you want it.”

 

“Just give me the basics.” Morax tells him, “We can go over the rest once everyone is okay.”

 

“Out of the one hundred mortal warriors who came to assist in the rescue efforts of Chi’s citizens, all are okay.” The general reported. “Once Chi was defeated, the people we pulled out of the territory started waking up, they were confused and still in a daze. We have some healers working with them now.”

 

“That’s good.” Morax nodded along, “Let’s hope we can get them back to their homes relatively soon.”

 

“As for Adepti, we lost five to the initial battle.” Menogais states, “We have already sent prayers to them and their possessions will be returned to any family…”

 

“And what of Xiao and Bosacius?” Morax asks, none either of them around. “What of them?”

 

“Indarias and Bonanus have taken them immediately to Streetward Rambler for healing…” the Geo Yaksha seemed to hesitate, “While Bosacius insists he’s okay, we still insist he went, Xiao on the other hand…”

 

“It’s alright.” Morax stops him, “Finish up here. I will get the rest from Rambler herself.”

 

They parted ways. Morax did not immediately go seek the answer he seeks, putting his full trust to allow Rambler to hand it. There was still a lot of work to do here.

 

This battle may be over, but a new one is on the horizon. Not one they can fight, but rather the one they can only offer support to…

 

The fight Xiao will have in order to live and recover…

Notes:

Yay~ Xiao's rescued and the fight is over!

I hope you all enjoyed

As always let me know what you think, all feedback is good feedback.

See you next chapter~

Join my Discord~ Link on profile!

Chapter 58

Notes:

Happy Valentines day! Here's your Valentine's Day!

I'm Back! finally.

I'll admit, I may have rewritten this chapter a couple of times due to not only forgetting what I had written for the set up... but also forgetting what I was going to write...

Any ways... Baby birb is home, not for the in between angsty fluff bits... or something

Enjoy.

Rambler paced her halls.

 

There was nothing she could do at the moment.

 

So she was restless.

 

All the mortals and Adepti injured in the Battle with Chi have already been treated and sent on their way with healing instructions if they needed them.

 

Bonanus and Indarias pulled Bosacius away from her Tea Pot to help with something so he wasn’t spending his whole time hovering over Xiao.

 

Xiao… Who was asleep in his room in her Tea Pot healing.

 

If it wasn’t for the new swath of bandages covering him, it would have looked like the Young Adeptus was never taken…

 

Lacerations, mild fractures, bruises all over his body… Surprisingly, Chi didn’t actually do a lot of damage.

 

Not compared to Shǎndiàn at least.

 

The worst of it was the burns caused by the chains Chi used… They were healing slowly due to leftover energy clinging to the wounds but healing all the same.

 

According to Guizhong, the chains were designed to force another to do whatever the one who placed the chain to follow their commands…

 

Both Morax and Guizhong confirmed that they could trace no residual presence of Chi over Xiao, meaning the boy was truly free from any control.

 

His wings were the least injured thing on him.

 

Some bruising around wings’ biceps where it was obvious someone had grabbed them. The feathers he’d regrown were all mostly ok, if not bent or broken where the bruising was. No cuts or injuries that were a concern. They were simply dislocated from his shoulders. A way to prevent him from trying to fly away presumably.

 

It was an easy fix, just popping the joints back into the right places and calming the inflamed muscles.

 

The only thing she was worried about was the potential loss of feeling or motion but they pass the reflex test every time she checks.

 

There were also the self-inflicted injuries… She’s treated Xiao for them before but his arms had a series of deep bite marks. Given his relations to the flowers before, Rambler can’t say she’s surprised but at least it seems like he heeded her words. While deep enough to draw blood his arteries were safe and there were no broken bones this time.

 

Outside of his physical injuries, there was the exhaustion, the malnutrition, and the fever.

 

All things that will be fixed with time and rest…

 

Rambler found herself entering Xiao’s room again. Checking on the young Adeptus and finding no change from the last five times she’s check.

 

She sat by his side, offering silent comfort and brushing his hair off his face to refresh the cooling cloth.

 

Then there was the matter of him eating more of those flowers, the Viparyas.

 

They had found a room with piles and piles of them and signs showed that it was the room Xiao had been kept in but… They had no way of knowing how many he had eaten.

 

Or what the consequences will be…

 

Morax made sure to bury the rest of them far below the earth and had Indarias spread her fire to burn the rest of Chi’s place to the ground ensuring none would survive.

 

Everything was almost normal again… They just need him to wake up…

 

Letting out a resigned breath, Rambler checked Xiao over once more and stood and opened the window, letting fresh air in. Returning to the hall, she resumed her pacing as she tries to find something to distract herself with.

 

It’s times like this she regrets becoming a healer… but it’s also times like this that remind her why she chose to be a healer.

 

Just like before Rambler found herself with nothing to do.

 

Nothing to do but wait…

 

Then she paused, someone just entered her realm and given the energy she could feel, it was the Bosacius returning… with the others.

 

That was when the spear she laid down to pick up bandages caught her eye…

 

Rambler was in no way out of practice… but it has been a while since she’s had a proper fight…

 

Grabbing the spear from the rack she practically busted her own doors down to greet the Generals at spear point.

 

“We’re sparring.” Rambler left no room for argument, spear point level with Bosacius’ face, “Get ready.”

 

“Okay?”

 

She twirled her spear as she got into position besides her building, re-familiarizing herself with the weight of the weapon before aligning herself in a starting position.

 

Bosacius tentatively also got into position 

 

“Ready?” Indarias asked, acting as their moderator, “and… Start!”

 

Releasing her breath, Rambler bursts forward, striking like a viper. Her attacks were quick and precise. Bosacius blocked with great skill, having the advantage of extra limbs to help counter her blows.

 

They both, of course, were using the flats of their weapons, her going as far as twisting her spear to the back end when doing any stabbing moves.

 

However that does not mean they were going easy on eachother.

 

But that was ok.

 

She missed this.

 

The thrill as blades narrowly missed her. The wind of the blows tickling her cheek. It was freeing. It was… relaxing. Rambler couldn’t help but grin as she locked blows with Bosacius. The General also grinned, enjoying the spar just as much… Even if there was a touch of nervousness in it.

 

She doesn’t know how long they were at it but her focus only wavered when she heard a band… like someone running into a wall.

 

Rambler’s blow went wide, landing in the ground beside Bosacius rather in against his side like she aimed for. Her head snapping to her house where the sound came from and felt her eyes go wide as she what happened.

 

Half hanging out the window, eyes blown wide and panting with panic, was Xiao. He looked at her, then at Bosacius and back, confusion wrestling with the panic across his face.

 

“Xiao!” Rambler left her weapon sticking out of the ground and quickly made her way to the window, hoping he wouldn’t fall out of it. “Xiao… Are you okay?”

 

The Young Adeptus didn’t say anything, inching a bit back as she reached from him looking at her in almost disbelief.

 

She doesn’t know what’s wrong… or why he’s just looking at her like he’s trying to decide something while he just took in his near panicked breathe…

 

“Xiao?”

 

Rambler held her hand out again, this time not going to touch him. His eyes locked onto it but he made no move.

 

It was almost like he was trying to figure out if she was really there or not. Xiao’s eyes drifted behind her again before focusing on her again.

 

Slowly, as his breath calmed down, he reached his hand out as well… hesitating a moment before touching her’s.

 

It was a soft touch, before he fully grab her hand, Xiao’s golden red-rimmed eyes met hers and his face twisted, tears welling up and falling from his eyes as he let out a sob.

 

Pulling herself up to sit on the window, Rambler rubbed his back gently, offering assurances that she was real, that he was free, that Chi was gone.

 

He didn’t cling to her, rather he remained half-hanging half-clinging to the windowsill, a firm grip from her to keep him from toppling out.

 

They sat there for a good moment, the General keeping their distance and quiet as Xiao had his moment.

 

Just as Rambler thought he was finished, and was about to suggest allowing her to pull him back fully through the window… he threw up, his purple tinged vomit fertilizing the plants below.

 

She started rubbing his back again… only for his body to go limp as he fell into unconsciousness again…

 

Rambler let out a sigh... and dragged the bird back in and laying him back on his bed.

Notes:

Whoop, Felt Like Bosacius would be mildly scared of Rambler if she ever got serious in a fight because she was a warrior at one point, and we assume she's a healer for the most part so... yeah

Honestly, I'm going to aim to have this story finished by Chapter 60... seeing as it wasn't even supposed to go passed 20, let alone 50 chapters so... We'll see how that goes I did decide I'm changing my ending... Mainly because the lead up to that would be better as it's own story so there's a potential Sequel, But I'm sure the new ending will hopefully still leave you satisfied.

Anywho, I hope you enjoyed. As always I love feedback, all feedback is good feedback and only helps me improve my writing.

See you next Chapter

Chapter 59

Notes:

Hello readers! I know, it's been a moment but it's finally here! the Last Chapter!

I'll admit I'm ending the story in a way I wasn't originally planning but I'll save that for another story or I'll be here forever and I want to move on to newer stories.

So enjoy the end, I went a different route than my usual style... Please don't stab me... Or die... I'm Sorry :)

Hehehehe(not that sorry)

It took a moment for Xiao to realize he was awake. He didn’t know how long he’d been staring blankly at the wood grains of the ceiling before he blinked back to awareness.

 

His head hurts as he turns his gaze to the open window. The perpetual sunset outside bathed the area in a warm light. He was in his room… and he was alone.

 

The last thing he remembered was waking up to the sound of fighting and seeing Rambler… beating up Bosacius?

 

Or was that a dream? No… he remembered making physical contact… something you can’t do in dreams…

 

He remembers being saved…

 

That was real.

 

A breeze caused his hair to tickle his face as he sat up.

 

Xiao took stock of himself… he was covered in bandages which was normal but he wasn’t in that much pain… or maybe his body was used to it… he felt lighter too as he pulled off the bandages on his arms. Scars from where his chains were marred his skin but he wasn’t upset.

 

They’re his proof.

 

His proof he’s truly free.

 

A small hiccup escaped him as his eyes started burning… How long has it been since he was the only one in control of himself? He can’t even remember really.

 

Wiping the water from his eyes he set his feet on the floor as he made to stand… he didn’t want to be alone at the moment… He wanted to be with the others…

 

Taking an unsteady step he tested his strength before getting himself to the door. The halls were quiet… Wherever everyone was, they obviously weren’t expecting him to wake up yet…

 

How long was he asleep?

 

Xiao wandered down the hall. Rambler has shown him how to get out of her space before… but he should probably wait till she knows he’s awake?

 

Yes. That was a good idea.

 

“Niao Niao!” Xiao flinched at the sudden shouting as something collided with him, “Niao Niao’s! Awake!”

 

It was Ganyu… she buried her face in his stomach as she wrapped her little arms around him, causing him to freeze.

 

He hasn’t seen her since the incident he caused… he thought she hated him after that?  

 

“Ganyu.” He heard Rambler’s scolding voice, “I told you that you shouldn’t jump at him, he might not want that.”

 

Rambler looked happy despite her tone as Xiao tentatively wrapped his arms around Ganyu’s shoulder.

 

“It’s good to see you awake.” Rambler addressed him, “How are you feeling? Does anything hurt?”

 

“…Head…”

 

“That’s to be expected.” She tells him, handing him a glass of water, “Drink that and I’ll give you a check up.”

 

Xiao watched as the healer busied herself after pushing him into a chair. Ganyu babbled about all the things she did since the last time he saw her.

 

It wasn’t much but she seemed to think so as he listened.

 

He could tell that Rambler was watching him from the corner of her eye’s. Observing him. Xiao couldn’t blame her… A lot had happened and he could barely remember anything from it.

 

He found himself dazedly staring at his cup before he realized it.

 

“Ganyu.” The healer spoke up, making her way over to them, “Can you bring this Bonanus please?”

 

“Okay!”

 

Ganyu took the package Rambler held out for her and ran off, her presence disappearing shortly after due to leaving the space.

 

“Xiao.” Rambler softly spoke as she came closer to him, gently reaching out her hand. “Are you okay? Are you feeling tired?”

 

“I’m…”

 

Xiao hesitates to answer because he didn’t know. He no longer felt… bad… but he also doesn’t feel ‘good’. It’s like he’s just there at the moment. Like a blade of grass caught by the wind, having no way of knowing where it’s going.

 

But…

 

“I’m… fine.” Xiao struggles getting out, taking Rambler’s offered hand to show her he’s aware. “I will be fine… If I’m not… I’ll have you… and the others?”

 

Xiao became less uncertain of his words because Rambler covered her mouth with her other hand and had tears forming in her eyes.

 

“Sorry…”

 

Xiao pulled his hand away, not understanding what he did to upset her… Only for the healer to grab it again.

 

“No, Xiao. You did nothing wrong.” Rambler pulls him closer, wrapping her arms around him much like Ganyu. “I’m not upset, I promise.”

 

She squeezed him tightly, but gently. He’s sure that if he pulled away she’d drop her hold… Not that he wants her to let go… It’s the least he can do for her.

 

After a moment… or a while, Xiao couldn’t tell, he was let go.

 

“Come on.” She guides him to a stand, “Let’s go do that check up.”

 

Xiao trusted her as she explained what she was doing and how it would help him. She was gentle with his wings that ached when they moved.

 

“Everything looks to be healing well.” Rambler tells him as she finishes, “Just take it easy for a while alright?”

 

Xiao just nodded… He doesn’t even know what he was going to do anyways… What he wants to do…

 

“How… long?” Xiao decides to ask, “Since?”

 

“A short while since you were last awake.” Rambler tells him with a small smile, “After everything, we were honestly expecting you to take longer to wake, but I’m pleased to see I was wrong for once.”

 

“Hmm…”

 

Xiao dazed off again but this time he was aware of doing it. He wonders what he should do… What can he do? He had nowhere to go… or anyone waiting for him. Not outside this place…

 

“Xiao?” Rambler drew his attention again, a worried look on her face, “Are you tired?”

 

Xiao shook his head. He knows what he wants…

 

“Do you want to go see the others?” Rambler asks, “They’ve been worried about you.”

 

“…Yes.”

 

Rambler helped him freshen up and change clothes before she escorted him out of the Teapot space.

 

Xiao could almost believe he was dreaming again with how peaceful it was outside but his hold on Rambler's hand kept him grounded… but then he remembered that this is not where the healer keeps her space.

 

“Surprise!” Something small hit his stomach again as Rambler turned him around. “Niao!”

 

Ganyu looked up at him with a wide smile as he took in the scene before him.

 

Lord Morax stood there with everyone… Lady Guizhong, Bonanus and the other generals, the two cranes… All seemingly waiting for him.

 

“I’m glad to see you up and about.” Lord Morax says, stepping forwards and kneeling to his height, “The others wanted to celebrate your rescue, if you will allow them.”

 

The second Xiao nodded he was dragged forward by Indarias and Bonanus, both talking happily to him as they pulled him into their group. He was immediately overwhelmed and dizzy at everything as they settled him at the table, pushing food and a drink towards him… but he refused to shy away from them.

 

The bear, Lord Marchocius, pushed a plate of sweet smelling tofu towards him.

 

“This is Almond Tofu.” Lord Morax steps up to them. “A sweetened Tofu basted with Almond syrup and sweetened milk. Marchocius made it just for you.”

 

“And we have a gift for you as well!” Bonanus leans over the table as Menogias sets a package down, “It’s from the four of us, it’s a little late since we were planning to give it to you before… well, you know.”

 

Xiao opened the package first, revealing clothes. A white shirt with an open back was revealed along with purple pants and a few other items he didn’t know the names for. He could see reflections of the others in some of the designs between all the parts but... It looked like it was made just for him.

 

An unfamiliar feeling started rearing its head within him and he folded the outfit back into the package and his eyes started burning again.

 

“Thank… You…?”

 

The words came out quiet and awkward but no one seemed to mind as he turned to the tofu in front of him. It smelt strangely familiar and his mouth started watering… Right with was the special meal that he never got to try before he was captured again.

 

Gulping nervously, he took a small piece and tried it. The sweet taste made him freeze as it hit his tongue… but… it was good.

 

It was right.

 

He ate more as water started dripping from his burning eyes. The feeling he had was growing too much as he finished…

 

Xiao stood up, walking away from the group as he tried to calm down and figure out the feeling… It was heavy but light… it was… Happy. He wiped his tears away as he understood the feeling.

 

He was so happy.

 

“Xiao?”

 

He didn’t know who was trying to talk to him but it didn’t matter. Turning on his heel he practically lunged at the four generals, trying to wrap his arm around the four of them but only succeeded in getting Indarias and Bonanus, knocking them down in the process.

 

They held him as he rubbed his tears away, looking up at them.

 

“I’m home.”

Notes:

Ah, So. Much. Fluff! I'm sorry. I, myself, made myself walk away several times not only writing this, but thinking about what to write.

The original end for this story would have been after Xiao decided to join Morax's fight under the Yaksha unit and working his way up to general status, gaining his title, Alatus, before ending it with Guizhong's death and a swell in fighting the Archon War... But that would have taken another dozen chapters and I personally don't want to write that right now... So here's a happier end that I'll apologize if it feels a bit rushed

Anywhoo, let me know what you think or if you find any mistakes. I'll see you in the next story.

If you enjoyed this story please feel free to join my Discord, link on profile or older chapters

Notes:

yay, you made it to the end.

Let me know what you think and if I should add or change any tags.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Caged Bird