Silence Is Purple: Fontaine is Drowning - Palamon - 原神 (2024)

Chapter 1: Slinking Through the Court of Fontaine: Energy Heist

Chapter Text

"It makes no sense to me, Your Majesty.

Why don't you want me to get
Any stronger? Sending me on these mundane
Nothing missions.
This will only stagnate my progress!

The gift you gave me, and this Dendro
Orb I received, don't you want me to

Become stronger, faster?
Everything is mundane in this
Cold breeze.
Oh, I hunger for strength, Your
Majesty. Diplomacy is useless!
Each and every day, is

Such a drag.
Though, I see how it is,
Really, didn't you take me away to make me into a powerful soldier? You
Ought to remember that!
No, what am I saying? All my orders are decided from the
Get go.
Each and every day is predetermined.
Repeating all the absolute nothing.

Maybe at some point,
One day my training will
Resume. Patience is key.
Every day, there is a chance.

Perhaps it will be here soon,
Or never.
Who knows?
Every day is unpredictable here. But, I
Regress.
For now, I need to focus on the workday at hand.
Ultimately, that is key.
Look, I can't ask her to let me train with a Harbinger again.

After all, she'll kill me.
No more requests for my
Desires. I know that's

Forbidden of me.
All and all, this vision, I
Suppose I'll get used
To it slowly.
Each and every day, it is mine now,
Really, patience is key."

Four days had passed since the hyena had a practice battle with the Eleventh Harbinger. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred. Diplomacy of nothing overtaking the ninety-six hours, mundaneness kicked into overdrive. Thirst for strength taking a backseat, the soldier remained loyal.

Today, diplomacy would die a dishonorable death.

The sound of morning alarm bells shouted out with a squeal to the skies and ceilings above. As the alarm bells continued blaring their grating noises for minutes on end, countless Fatui Soldiers groaned in a discordant harmony. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal within the military barracks.

The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the early adult pumped his currently human fists together. Another day of absolutely nothing awaited him, for sure. Hourglasses' sand beginning to fall faster, the hyena rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As his uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the soldier's confidence shot through the roof like a bullet on the battlefield. Today, for sure, diplomatic affairs would continue, like always. Snapping the buttons on his winter jacket shut, the early adult removed the cover of his jewelry and accessory box.

Windwheel Aster set staring back at him, the soldier turned his nose up. Nature and he were not yet on speaking terms. Returning his attention forward, the early adult clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning his favorite matching yellow moon ones, the chimera could not help but wonder. Was turning his prized possessions into weapons what he truly wanted? He could not help but already feet a wave of regret.

But, a spark soon popped off in the hyena's brain. Stronger, he needed to get stronger. Faster, more powerful. Turning his hairpins and earrings into weapons, it was the only way. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What in the world was he thinking? He needed to focus.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the chimera gazed at the yellow-green orb down below him. Why was he Dendro? Surely, there had to have been another element he could have received. But, the hyena shook his head. The decision had already been made by the deities above. There was nothing he could do to change such; his fate had been sealed, and he supposed, anything was better than the terrifying element of Pyro.

Buttons in the correct holes, the early adult walked towards the edge of the room. Heelless shoes soon slipped over his currently human feet, the young soldier stared at the steel walls. He supposed, he should be grateful he was amongst the very limited numbers to receive a Vision. Closing the book on such thoughts, the chimera devoured his rations like a wolf in Mondstadt.

Glasses adjusted, and everything done, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Knowing that, at any minute, his orders would arrive, the soldier pumped his currently human fists together for the second time. Today, for sure, another day of absolutely nothing awaited him.

Hearing the Fatui Agent's boots march onward with a fervor, the soldier tilted his head. Was it just his imagination, or had the sound of his steps gotten louder? Realizing such, the hyena blinked. His hearing, it had gotten sharper. Slapping his cheeks, the chimera regained focus. There was no time to think about such things. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult turned his attention towards the door. The time had come his workday of nothing to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be going to Fontaine to study, observe, and collect energy sources." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. All the energy in the world belonged to Her Majesty.

The hyena jumped six steps back. He's going to Fontaine today? There was no way he would ever be welcome there, guaranteed. Fontaine's wine industry, hadn't the Fatui been banished from such establishment? Surely, the rest of the nation would have been exactly the same.

Fontaine echoing in his mind, the chimera stared off into space. Wasn't Fontaine the Nation of Justice? Fatui were considered injustice throughout the continent. There was absolutely no way, without any question, that he would be able to research energy sources without getting caught and sent into a steel barred room.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you with me? You're going to Fontaine to study and collect energy sources!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. What could possibly be on his mind besides work? "Quit dawdling, and get a move on!"

The chimera flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. Any wrong move, and Her Majesty would kill him, guaranteed. There was no time to waste. Pushing every single thought aside, the work mode switch flipped upward inside him. Justice or not, he had to work, no matter what.

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

"Excellent. Let's go, soldier," the agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the agent grabbed the wrist into a tight lock. Gripping prison as tight as it usually was, the soldier closed his eyes as the escort to Fontaine began. But, as the nation was nearing, one thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

Will he be kicked out of the nation?

***

"Fontaine is different than I recall.
Over my head in the corner, is a huge waterfall.
Not only that, this nation feels elevated.
This makes no sense. Was it
Always like this? Perhaps the time
I had come here years ago, things have since changed.
No, I suppose, I must be remembering this place wrong.
Everything is different, except the waterfalls.

Is this the nation of justice in its true capacity?
So high off of the ground, is

This Celestia? No, that can't be it.
However, I have this feeling,
Everyone here is still justice seeking. This

Nation of Justice. I
Am a villain to them, guaranteed.
That much is likely the case, for that
I am certain. So, as I
Observe these energy sources, I
Need to proceed with caution.

Of course, one wrong move, and I'll be arrested,
For sure. I cannot allow that to happen.

Justice never sleeps, that is the
Ultimate key. So, I need to be careful.
Stealthy. Go unnoticed by all.
The less I am noticed, the better.
In this nation full of water, I
Cannot be lax, I need to keep my guard up.
Even if there is no one around me."

Upon reaching a sandy desert hill through the Teleport Waypoint, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. The Agent, why had he taken him to the edges of Sumeru? But, such inquiry had an immediate answer. Hearing the sound of roaring falls, the hyena turned his head towards the cacophony.

Spotting a large, high elevated waterfall off in the distance, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. The Hydro Nation of Justice, was it much higher off the ground than other nations? He had to have to have been remembering the nation wrong since the last time he had been here three years or so prior.

Gripping prison clamping down harder, the soldier could feel his feet be dragged downward through the mountain. Boat summoned almost out of nowhere as the lake soon neared, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was getting into Fontaine from here even possible?

Placed into the wooden vessel, the early adult had been removed from the gripping prison. Boat soon cruising forward, the hyena observed the area around him. Hearing seagulls calling out from the distance, the hyena wondered. Had Fontaine always been beside a desert? His parents had never taught him an array of knowledge about the Hydro Nation.

Boat getting further out to sea, the early adult gazed at the waterfall from afar. Was the entire nation above the falls? How was such even possible? The Electro Nation of Eternity, it had been a collection of islands far isolated off the coast of the rest of the world. Was Fontaine the same? He supposed he was about to find out if such were indeed the case.

Agent soon passing by a boat sitting motionless upon the water with no one sitting inside it, the hyena blinked. How could someone leave a large vessel in the middle of the sea like that? But, something of particular note caught the soldier's attention. The vehicle, had it not been powered by humanity? He could not help but feel something had been different about it.

Vehicle passed by a sea of questions flowed through the soldier as multiple boats got further away in his heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Fontaine, was it a more advanced region technologically from other nations? He recalled hearing whisperings of the Research Institute many years prior. Could such institution have created advancements in life?

But, as the nation of justice grew closer, a memory had come flowing back into the soldier's fading human brain. His practice partner had once told him Snezhnaya had been the nation more advanced than the rest. Realizing such, the hyena could not help but wonder. The rest of Teyvat, was it behind on the times? But, he supposed the rest of the continent had their own forms of technology fit to the standards of everyone.

Destination a mere seventy-five meters away, the soldier remained motionless within the wooden vessel. If he were to move around too much, he would become one with the ocean at any given moment. Docking area about to be upon him any second now, the hyena prepared himself. What world was about to await him on the other side?

Wooden vessel soon docked, the Agent stepped forward. Wrist gripped into a tight lock once more, the soldier gazed at the world around him. Large, glass sea side building separated by a large bed of water and staircases aplenty, the early adult scratched his head. Where had he been taken to? Guided across the waterway, the next part of his journey soon awaited him.

Agent informing him to take the Aquabus to the Court of Fontaine, the early adult titled his head. What, in all of Teyvat, was an Aquabus? He had never heard of such contraption before. Subordinate soon exiting the area, the early adult let out a gulp. He was to traverse Fontaine alone, by himself, solo.

Stepping onto the staircase beside a man dressed to the nines and his hat wearing dog, the soldier could feel a chill crawl down his spine. Was everyone in the nation required to dress as fancy as possible? If such were the case, he was about to stick out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls.

Reaching the end of staircase, a green blue glass room awaited the hyena. Seeing such, the soldier flinched. What in the world was he looking at? Seeing someone press a button beside him, doors opened automatically. Person stepping inside the strange corridor, the soldier followed behind in tandem.

Circular object underneath thrusting the soldier upward, the hyena's mouth dropped open. The circular glass room was a moving vehicle, as well? Absolutely fascinating. Technology was incredible. Perhaps, just maybe, two people could even trade books from far and wide without even moving.

Glass room soon halting, the person in front of him soon moved towards the exit. Quietly following behind, the upper levels of the area had soon been reached. Person moving towards a sign in the corner with a button, the early adult opened up his proxy orb into map form. Spotting the blue triangle in the corner of the map, the soldier studied it, for a moment.

Pointer indicating he had been in Romaritime Harbor, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was the nation of Fontaine a harbor based nation? Spotting multiple harbors throughout various parts of the Hydro world in front of him, he supposed such had to have been the case. He supposed, in the future, he would be tasked to ride through the other ports, as well.

Person in front of him pressing the button moments later, the early adult stepped behind the stranger. No one else stepping behind him, silence overtook the harbor. Fancy people all around going about their business, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Silence was deafening.

Silence looping on repeat as the soldier waited for the mysterious aquatic bus to arrive, the young soldier observed the world around him. Pirate ship far off in the distance and presumable captain being the only person not dressed in formal attire, the early adult blinked. The citizens of the nation were friends of the sea, indeed.

But, such world of quiet soon boomed into a commotion. Well dressed citizens everywhere chanting one after another that Lady ------ had returned, the early adult crossed his arms across his waist. Lady ------? Was she some sort of important person in Fontaine? Hearing the sound of boots high up above, the hyena turned his head towards the noise.

Spotting a short young woman standing on the edge of a glass area above the ground as the crowd cheered, the hyena stood on the tips of his toes. Why did this person have to stand so high, was she above everyone else? He could not help but feel a sense of superiority radiating through her. Young lady adorning light blue hair with aquatic highlights all the way down to her backside, with aqua eyes to match adorning teardrop pupils with one eye a darker shade than the other, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. This person, just who was she? Fancy indigo outfit that looked liked the ocean and hat to match barely covering her loose hair in the corner, an overwhelming aura shot down like ultra violet rays as the lady had begun to speak.

"My dear people, rich, poor, Fatui and all," the lady announced with bravado. "I, Focalors, have defeated that vile blonde once and for all. You may all rejoice in this!"

Multiple generic citizens cheering as if a battle competition had just been won, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the hyena. Did the Hydro Archon just announce herself to everyone? How incredibly odd. Weren't the seven supposed to keep themselves at a distance from their own citizens or keep their identities secret from the common folk? But, he supposed such depended on the nation.

Some generic nobodies announcing justice had been served, fear swallowed the hyena up like a plate of garlic baguette. If he were to make even a singular slip up while in Fontaine, he would be the next one defeated by the hammer of the nation's justice in fell swoop, for certain.

Young woman proclaiming herself the nation's archon soon exiting the area, the hyena took a long deep breath. He needed to be careful for the rest of the mission going forward, guaranteed. The Hydro God, an extra set of eyes would be on him, without a shadow of doubt. Caution was mandatory.

World growing quiet once more, a vehicle soon docked itself in the corner. Person in front of him soon hopping on, the early adult observed the object in front of him. Large, elevated boat adorning the colors grey, gold and blue with a two staircases and no human powering it, the soldier froze in place.

Vehicle floating above the water with grace, the early adult's knees had become hard as rocks. This large boat in front of him was able to take him across the entire nation without the need for paddles? How incredibly fascinating. Technology was incredible. His proxy map was but a speck of dust on the wind in comparison. But, his food cart of thought was soon halted as the stranger who boarded first called out to him.

"Aren't you getting on?" the stranger asked. "You've been standing there for quite awhile!"

Flinching, the early adult seated himself on the opposite side of the stranger. Right, it was time to go. Short young animalistic woman with light brown hair going down to her shoulders with colorful pointy ears, a blue hat with foreign writing on it, cyan coat barely hiding her white and blue paws, the soldier wondered. Were humanity and the wildlife intertwined into civilization here far more than other nations?

Brown haired person asking if everyone had boarded, a loud yes had come from the stranger's mouth. Unknown person soon looking right towards him, the early adult studied them, for a moment. Seated on the opposite end of the vehicle had been a young man who looked barely any taller than him. The young man had short blond hair that went down to about his shoulders with a small braid going through his bangs. Orange eyes, and ridiculously long golden eyebrows with freckles everywhere the eye could see, the early adult let out a groan. Fancy grey suit with brown pants and a penguin tail sticking out from behind him, the young soldier let out another grunt.

Gazing at the penguin tail once more, the hyena placed his hands on his scalp. The pesky penguin family resided in Fontaine, as well? He wanted to rip out entire locks of his hair and remove himself from this boat right now. But, he knew he could not do such. Riding the aquabus forward was the only option. Perhaps, just maybe, if he focused on the scenery, the new thorn in his side would give him peace.

Absent minded looking purple haired young man with a hyena tail sitting on the other side of the boat adorning a Dendro Vision on his belt, the blond swore he could feel an arrow shot through his heart. Archons, was this man such a cutie. He wanted to take him home, then take him out to dinner and become his wife. Having both a tail, and a Dendro Vision just like him? This man was a keeper. It was time to break the ice.

"Hi, there! You seem new here!" the stranger exclaimed. "I couldn't help but notice your tail was sticking out!" His face grew hot. Archons, was this man a keeper. "My name is Earl! What's your name?"

Strange aquatic creature up in the front of the vehicle soon interrupting the aggravating stranger with an announcement that the Aquabus Tour was starting, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. Had a miracle ascended from Celestia? The tour guide had cut the annoying stranger off at the perfect time.

Tour ready to begin, the information presented to him soon registered to the hyena. Did the pesky penguin just say his tail was sticking out? How incredibly embarrassing. Closing his eyes, for a moment, his tail soon vanished from his backside. Stranger referring to themselves as Earl soon clapping, the hyena let out a groan.

Person introducing himself faster than a speeding bullet, the chimera let out a barely audible sigh. Why was this person being so friendly to him immediately? Didn't he see the Fatui Insignias on his uniform? He was being far too nice with someone he had only met less than five minutes ago. A less savory person would take advantage of him, if he were anyone else, without question.

Disgusting orange eyes looking at him with heavy anticipation, the early adult was beside himself with bewilderment. Why did he look as if he was expecting him to give out his name like it was some wedding gift? He was a member of the Fatui; he was not supposed to give out his name so easily anymore. Such was forbidden.

But, the pesky penguin's eyes would not leave his own. Letting out a sigh, the early adult prepared himself to unleash the forbidden knowledge of the name his parents gave him when he was brought into this world two decades prior. Would giving this man the information he wanted keep him quiet? The hyena hoped so.

"My name is Siorc, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible. He then turned his head towards the opposite direction. Absolutely disgusting, a pest had learned his name.

Stranger mumbling out that his name was Siorc, Earl could feel himself transported to Wonderland. Siorc, that name was of Fontaine descent. This man was definitely a keeper. His surname, if it were of Fontaine descent his well, the entire family would approve. Yes, the wedding bells were ringing. This man, without question, he would become his future wife. He needed to introduce him to his family right away.

"Oh, don't be so formal, pal! Just call me Earl!" Earl exclaimed, slapping his hand on the air. "You're one of those Fatui people, huh? What brings you to Fontaine?" A forbidden romance? Steamy goodness.

Aquabus moving through a tunnel as the tour had begun, the early adult turned his attention towards the aquatic lady's information. Girl saying he had been on the Clementine Line and they were headed for the Court of Fontaine, the soldier's eyes practically had stars in them. He was about to get a full tour of the southern part of the nation? He was ready.

Tour guide introducing herself as Aeval, the hyena's eyes were glued. What secrets awaited him beyond the tunnel? Boat moving by itself as she spoke about voicing concerns to her, the hyena remained still as everything moved forward. Water splashing underneath the vehicle, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera.

Not seeing anyone steering the ship and no ladder down below, the hyena could not help but wonder. What could have possibly been powering the Aquabus? Did it move independently without someone steering? How fascinating. The horse powered carts with no steeds to pull them were ancient in comparison.

Boat moving north through the water, the early adult peered over his shoulder. Beaches everywhere and much darker blue water for kilometers, the soldier blinked. Was the water in Fontaine of different caliber than the oceans in other nations? He could not help but feel it looked different from the lakes of Mondstadt, Liyue, Inazuma and Sumeru before it.

Tour Guide soon talking about the Steambird, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. The famous newspaper hailed from Fontaine? How interesting. He supposed such name did not fit any other region within the continent. But, he knew, if a member of the paper were to attempt to interview him, he would have to decline. Letting reporters hear his voice was never going to happen.

Tour continuing as the vessel kept heading north in an automatic notion, the early adult let out a sigh as the pesky penguin's voice played in his head once more. Why was this new thorn in his side twice over asking about this objective? Would telling him why he was sent here keep him quiet? Knocking on invisible wood, he motioned his lips to speak.

"I must observe Fontaine's energy sources, sir," the hyena responded, tacking on the word sir anyway.

Aquarails continuing upon the northern path, the soldier turned his head towards the opposite direction. Will giving this penguin the information he wanted out of him get him to hop off his back? Hopefully, with the slither of information he provided, the rest of the trip to the Court of Fontaine would be quiet.

Fatui Siorc saying he has to observe Fontaine's energy sources, another arrow had been shot through the center of his chest. Was he staying here in the area for awhile? Then he most certainly needed shelter. He wanted to take him home more than ever. Fate was upon him, the stars were aligned.

"Then you'll need shelter!" Earl shouted, star eyed. "Come with me, I'll take you to my home! This line stops in Court of Fontaine, I live there!"

Earl not asking and acting like he was not being given an option, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Who did this person think he was, being so friendly and forward? The Fatui, didn't they have negative reputation throughout the entire world? While he did not align himself with the rest of the organization's ideals whatsoever, he knew people looked upon him with the same disgust as the other soldiers. This person had no sense of danger, for sure.

Knowing if he did not respond, the pesky penguin's gums would keep flapping, the early adult nodded. He supposed having somewhere to stay if his mission was more than one day wouldn't be so bad. Fancily dressed man letting out a cheer, the soldier slapped his palm across his forehead. What unnecessary fanfare.

Ride soon falling silent, the early adult kept his attention on the tour. Aquabus trudging on along the waterways with scenic routes to the east and west alike, the soldier gazed at the world around him. Landmasses to both sides looking incredibly different from one another, the young soldier pondered. Was Fontaine split into multiple areas? He supposed he would find out at a later point.

Tour Guide soon saying they were passing by the Merusea Village and proclaiming that's where she's from, the hyena gazed downward. Where was this village she was speaking of? Wherever it had been, it was not visible whatsoever. Aeval saying she was born from Elynas, the hyena blinked. Wasn't she saying too much? Surely, she was going off her tour guide script.

Supposed invisible village passed by, the tour had kept going. Spotting a cluster of pink from afar, the early adult had come to wonder. Those pink trees, were those the ones he had seen the last time he had been here years prior? Perhaps, just maybe, at a later date, he could take a look at such just to be sure, even if nature and he were seeing other people.

More layers of ocean soon catching the chimera's attention, the soldier could not help but wonder. Did Fontaine have a rising sea level problem? But, the early adult put a pin in such thought. If such were a catastrophic issue, the citizens would be on edge all the time.

Earl sewing up a storm in the corner, another question swept the wet rug from underneath him. Man looking as though he were sewing an extremely fancy scarf, the inquiry poked him with a needle. Was the penguin into fashion? But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What did he care? He was a pest. Whatever he was doing was not interesting, in the slightest.

Vehicle soon moving towards the next tunnel, the early adult could feel a wave of unease flow through him. Was it just his imagination, or did he just whiff a strong scent of rotting pipes down below? But, the young soldier shook his head. He had to have been imagining it. Pipes had no scent, for sure.

Tour guide stating they were passing through Poisson, the chimera could feel a chill travel down his spine. Poisson, was that a fancy word for poison? Was there a city laden with toxins everywhere? Guide stating no one takes the Poisson line, conspiracies had begun to churn in his partially human brain. Poisson, the city of poison. The toxic civilization.

Soon hearing most people come to Fontaine through a place known as Chenyu Vale in Liyue, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. Did Fontaine border Liyue? He supposed he would find out such in the future. Possible city of toxins cruised through, the journey to the capital soon continued.

Earl finishing up whatever he was sewing, the hyena paid the man no more mind. The pesky penguin chimera deserved no attention from him whatsoever. Aquatic bus continuing upon the northern path, the early adult kept his eyes forward. Spotting a port far off from the other side, the destination was soon nearing.

Young lady stating they will soon be arriving at the capital city, the early adult wondered. Did all seven nations name their capital city after the nation itself? Such pattern had become impossible to ignore as the years had continued to creep on by in his forced upon him Fatui life.

Aquabus meters away from its destination, a very late reminder had come the soldier's way. Tour guide stating to keep hands, feet and swords in the boat at all times, the early adult could feel sweat pour down his back. Shouldn't she have mentioned such from the very beginning of the trip? But, perhaps, just maybe, she was new to her profession.

Arriving at the station after twenty minutes had passed, the early adult took a long, deep breath. What was about to await him in the capital city? If unwelcomed glares of the citizens soon awaited him, he needed to prepare himself for any justice that would come for him at any given moment. But, as his thoughts soared through him, the pesky penguin's voice cut him with a scissor.

"We're finally here! The Court of Fontaine!" Earl exclaimed with excitement. "Now, let me take you home!"

Earl leading the way as the station was soon behind them, the early adult observed the large city in front of him. Gigantic established civilization with multiple floors separated by waterways and expensive looking stores on every single corner and alleyway, the hyena's heart skipped two beats. Was he in rich people county? The hyena did not know, but he felt like such had to have been the case.

Fancily dressed penguin veering off towards the left of the city, the soldier followed behind in silence. While he would prefer to vanish without a trace he knew, that if he did such, the thorn in his side would announce his name to the world to look for him. Such embarrassment should never come into fruition, no matter what.

Continuing upon the southward path for awhile, restaurants had been passed by. Generic citizens passing by in the highest, most pristine clothing, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why was everyone in this nation so well dressed? Perhaps, just maybe, the nation was the fashion capital of the world. Was he underdressed? Surely, Her Majesty knew he would stand out in his plain Snezhnayan winter jacket.

Soon passing by a hotel that was advertising an upcoming magic show, the early adult could feel himself become a fish out of water. Fontaine had magicians? Spotting a generic man in the corner of the hotel doing tricks galore, the chimera held back a shrug. Every nation had their own share of entertainment.

Guided down a stairwell, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Just how far away was he being taken? He could not help but feel wherever the penguin thorn in his side lived it was quite a far ways away from the rest of the city. Continuing onward, the nonexistent clock soon struck seven.

Tracks soon stopped beside a fancy looking clothing store with dresses on display outside, and suits on display on the inside windows, the early adult took another deep breath as the beautiful clothing glared back at him. The dresses, he wanted to try one on. But, the chimera popped such thought away with a pin. He had a mission to attend to. There was no time to be thinking about fashion.

Golden doorknob soon twisted open, the hyena followed behind the penguin in tandem. Guided towards a stairwell, the duo barreled down the stairs almost as if heading through a sewer. Small looking apartment underneath with no more than eight rooms forming a large space with only a few doors evident throughout, an unfortunate sight soon caught the early adult's eyes.

Eyes soon darted towards the couch, a sight the soldier did not wish to witness burned into the hyena's pupils faster than fire. Kaiser laying on his side all bandaged up from shoulders to wrist rolled up into a ball, warning bells rung in Siorc's mind. Had he hurt himself? While the pest was the biggest thorn in his side, wishing injury upon him was not in the cards at all. But, an announcement soon cut his thoughts short.

"I'm home!" Earl shouted at the top of his lungs. But, he soon noticed his future husband's eyes were elsewhere. "Oh, don't mind my cousin over there. He's having some sort of crisis. We're keeping him safe while he's staying here." He then stepped forward. "Now, let's get to the kitchen!"

Earl leading the way, the hyena's eyes wandered back towards Kaiser. Had something happened to him? He could not help but feel concern even if he was the last person he ever wished to cross paths with. But, the early adult turned around. Whatever happened was not his business. He knew, if Kaiser caught him looking his way he would shout to not look at him right now, he's ugly.

Whiffing a tasty smell of meat on the air, the early adult held back the urge to drool. Had he arrived during mealtime? If such were the case, perhaps it was best to leave until their dinner was finished. Intruding upon another family's quality time eating together was rude of him, for sure. Strangers hard at work putting ingredients together, Earl soon ran onto the scene.

"What?! You two started making dinner without me?!" Earl whined. But, a voice soon cut him off.

"Earl, you brought another boy home?" the stranger asked. "How many does this make now?" Their voice was slightly tenor and accented.

Finger pointed his way, the hyena studied the stranger from afar. Standing in the kitchen prepping seasonings had been a short, androgynous looking person who was no more than seven centimeters taller than him. The person had curly blond hair that went down to about their chest, with a slight ponytail where all the rest of the curls designated themselves to towards the upper left side of their head. Adorning a golden monocle over their right eye with a sun on string below them, star and moon low hanging earrings, orange eyes with obnoxious golden penguin crests and a feminine purple suit, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. More pesky penguins. His hair would be grey by the end of this mission.

"Five!" Earl responded with excitement. "But, he's a keeper, Baron! He's Dendro, just like me!"

Brother going on about yet another boy he just met, Baron shook their head. Earl was going to be heartbroken yet again like the past four times he had been dumped and rejected almost immediately. Why couldn't he have a more realistic outlook on love and stop falling for people right off the bat? They needed to remind him of reality.

"He's going to dump you like the rest of them when he sees your feet," Baron responded in a matter of fact tone.

Hearing Earl and Baron's conversation, fury sunk its teeth into the hyena's shoulders. These penguins think he's this man's next date? Absolutely horrific. He would never date a penguin, no way. Not even if he and the penguin chimeras were the last on the entire planet. Never, in a million lifetimes.

Last person in the room studying him from afar, the hyena let out a tired sigh. Was the final penguin pest about to add themselves to the annoying chaos brewing about? If such were about to be the case, he would leave immediately. He had no time for these ridiculous false romantic advances from a group of annoying strangers.

Dearest younger brother bringing home another boy, the oldest sibling observed Earl's new boy toy. But, their eyes soon wandered to the man's uniform in a matter of seconds. Spotting a Fatui Insignia on the corner of his winter jacket, a switch clicked. The oldest sibling sees the truth now. Earl had brought him here for shelter.

"Dearest Earl, you brought this boy here to hide him from the bigwig meka cops while on a mission," the stranger surmised. Their voice was slightly tenor, but had feminine charm nonetheless. She then turned towards the Fatui. "My kindness is all yours, darling. My name is Malika, owner of the Congelé Boutique. Let me know if you need anything to wear, you can use our clothes for free!"

Words of kindness coming his way, the early adult observed the owner of the voice. Standing in the kitchen looking like she had just taken a break from prepping a fancy dinner had been a very tall woman slightly taller than Kaiser. The young woman had bright blonde moisturized hair that went down to about right below her chest with a right swept ponytail and backside braided. Orange eyes and golden penguin crests like the rest of her family, the hyena gazed at her outfit. Adorning a fancy white dress with a long orange skirt, the soldier could not believe what he was thinking, but Malika was absolutely gorgeous.

Seeing such a fancy outfit on her, Siorc could not help but wonder. Did Kaiser get his fashion sense from Malika? He could not help but feel her femininity had been very contagious. The dresses on the top floor, maybe it wouldn't hurt to try one on later. But, his thoughts were soon interrupted by another voice.

"Just so you know, if you call my sister a man at any point while you're here," Baron said, arms crossed around their chest. "You're out of here and won't be allowed back." There was a heavy sense of seriousness in their voice.

The hyena rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Why would he ever refer to Malika as a man? Did Baron think because her voice had a deeper cadence he would refer to her in such a way? There was no way he would ever do such a thing. Misgendering anyone for any given reason, especially on purpose, should a crime punishable by prison. But, as he kept thinking about such, a voice cut through his thoughts with gardening sheers.

"Supper probably won't be ready for an hour or two," Malika said, going back to mixing ingredients into mystery meat. "Darling, why not go explore the city for now? Earl will come and get you when it's time to eat."

Trio deep into their meal preparations, the soldier nodded. It was best to get onto the mission at hand right away. Intruding upon a family's mealtime was not on the agenda. He would return after hours, for the time being. Such was the only option. Climbing up the stairwell, the hyena exited into the world outside.

Opening the proxy orb into map form for a moment, the early adult observed the triangle in the northwestern area of the map. Spotting a teleport waypoint close to the area he had been in, the soldier walked off towards the left. But, as he continued to step forward, nothing but a glass room awaited him.

Glass box plastered with floor numbers, static swum through the early adult's head. The Navia line? Floor two? Head for outside of the Court of Fontaine? Which one could have possibly been the correct answer? Figuring the last one had to have been the case, the hyena pressed the button. Crossing his index fingers over his middle fingers, the early adult prayed to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship he had selected correctly.

Nothing but an empty exit area filled with towering walls throughout, the hyena gazed at the teleport waypoint in the corner. What could be powering such landmarks all across the nations? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. There was no answer to such question, guaranteed. Barely anyone knew what they were. Everyone in Teyvat sans those with proxy maps traversed on foot or boat. Returning to the glass room, the chimera went back to the floor he came.

Walking upon the eastward path he stepped through earlier, the soldier turned his attention towards the hotel. Multiple, well dressed individuals standing around everywhere outdoors with more semi aquatic people dressed to impress, the early adult could not help but wonder further. The magic show that was announced earlier, was it amongst one of the popular events? If such were the case, studying the city's energy flow would prove to be a challenge.

Spotting tall robots around the city streets looking as though they were employees of the city's police force, the hyena let out a gulp. The Court of Fontaine had mechanical beings employed upon their staff? He was in serious trouble if one were about to catch him. They had to have been programmed to remove people like him from the premises, guaranteed.

Soon entering the hotel, for a moment, the area almost swallowed the hyena whole. Was it just him, or did the hotel feel far fancier on the inside than it did on the outside? Wave of intimidation nibbling on his neck, the chimera kept walking. Guests bustling about magicians with various layers of excitement, the soldier turned his attention towards the shops on the bottom floor.

Tiny restaurant and store a booth over completely run by people, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Was a majority of Fontaine still human ran? Perhaps, just maybe, the only things run automatically were the transportation methods. Ascending to the second floor, rich people indulging in high tea and crumpets plagued the area like an illness.

Finding nothing about energy within the inn walls, the soldier excused himself. But, as he returned to the world outside, a hypothesis with more holes than swiss cheese took the stage. The magic show, could it have been powered by Fontaine's energy source? He supposed, at a later point, he would have to check one out for himself if a time ever arose where he could do so.

Spotting another restaurant in the corner with generic citizens eating their fill, the soldier could not help but wonder once more. Did the employees of the eating establishments make use of the city's energy to have food cooked for them? But, the early adult threw such thought away into the aquarails across the line. Why was he assuming everything here was automated? There was no way that could have even been close to the truth.

Eventually reaching a newspaper and book stall, a young woman in the corner clamored on and on about detective novels and multiple court cases. Hearing such hustle and bustle, the hyena let out a gulp. The culture of Fontaine was the courtroom. If he were to make one wrong move, he would be the next court case.

Continuing onward, the hyena found himself beside the city's god statue. Robed woman holding something upward, the early adult could not help but ponder. All of the statues he had seen throughout Teyvat, did they contain some sort of powers? But, the early adult shook his head. There was no way that could have been the case. They were merely a commemoration of the region's archon.

Walking upon the northeastern path, a familiar building he had come across in Mondstadt and Sumeru caught the hyena's attention. Adventurer's Guild booth standing out in the open with the usual black haired receptionist, the soldier did a triple take. Why did all the receptionists look exactly the same? Woman turned towards the side, he swore he could see a wind up key behind her.

Adventurers gathering around requesting work for the evening, the soldier blinked. The Adventurer's Guild, was it an organization everywhere throughout Teyvat? But, the chimera pushed such thoughts away. Why was he letting himself get distracted? He needed to focus on studying energy sources.

Toy and strange store calling itself a clockwork shop, the soldier could feel his knees twitch. What in the world was clockwork? Such was a foreign concept to him. Moving along the way, robots walked beside him in tandem. Mechanical person stopping to look at him for a moment, the early adult let out a yelp.

Mechanical citizen soon moving on its own way, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. Whatever was powering the robots, he should be thankful their programming did not regard him as a suspicious person. Observing more shops for awhile to come, the soldier walked towards the city's aquabus station.

Vehicle out in the open with people looking ready to board, the soldier gazed at the machine of many marvels. What could possibly be powering such a thing? Could the creature serving as a tour guide have been the source of such? Taking note the employee had been standing on top of a circular button, such possibility retained water.

Returning to another glass room, the object thrusted him upward for the third time of the day after the press of a button. Entire chamber going up with no problem, fascination took the hyena for a ride. What in the world was powering this contraption? Was it being pulled up by a wooden pulley down below? Trying to look down, no gaps between the corridors showed anything of note.

Eyes practically growing six sizes as he returned, the early adult rapidly shook his head back and forth. If people saw his face right now, he would be called a shark out of water, for sure. He needed to look serious, or he would stand out amongst the crowd. Observing the rest of the city for hours on end, the next stop was soon upon him.

But, as the early adult reached the blacksmith, fancy feet had come running his way. Earl completely out of breath as he approached him, the hyena let out a deep groan. Why had he come for him? Wasn't it far past dinnertime already? Surely, he had no reason to come gather him like some lost puppy.

"Found you!" Earl exclaimed, panting. "It's time for supper now!" As he said such, he grabbed Siorc's hand.

Earl dragging him along as if he was waiting to take his hand, the early adult stared at the nighttime sky. Wasn't it far too late for a meal? The pesky penguin was wasting his time bringing him back to his home fashion base. But, he supposed that not as much time had passed as he anticipated.

Thorn in his side's cheeks as red as a tomato, the soldier rolled his eyes to the sky. Why was Earl blushing looking ready to burst out into a million giggles at any given moment? If even grabbing a hold of his hand to escort him back to the boutique was a gesture of romanticism with him, he wanted no part of such. But, it had been too late to break free. The boutique was soon reached.

Guided back towards the apartment beneath the boutique, a strong scent of meat filled the air. Earl guiding him to his seat, the soldier stared at the meal in front of him. Circular dish with an egg yolk on top smelling as juicy as ever, the hyena could feel himself salivate.

Kaiser setting the table, the early adult could not help but take note of the look of confusion upon his face. Seeing such, the hyena wondered. Was something rather unusual to him? But, he supposed it as not his business whatsoever. Table set with only napkins and forks, a question soon arose from the ashes.

"Malika, where are the knives?" Kaiser asked, voice devoid of all emotion.

"We hid them all!" Malika exclaimed. But, such was met with immediate shock.

"How am I supposed to cut my steak without a knife?" Kaiser retorted, deadpan.

Commotion kicking into overdrive as the minutes dragged onward, the hyena turned his attention towards Kaiser's bandages for the second time of the day. As he kept his attention forward, an immediate realization had washed over him. The injuries, he had done such a thing to himself. The time Regina cut herself off to say he might do something, was that what she meant? If such were the case, he needed to curb his disdain for the time being.

Dull, white plastic knives that could barely cut through anything except butter, the family of penguins had begun chowing down on their dinner in a polite manner. Group eating slowly, the soldier blinked. Proper table etiquette was mandatory. Carving through the circular lump of meat in front of him at the pace of a slug, the hyena attempted to chew like a rich person.

Juicy pieces of meat dropping down his partially human throat, the early adult blinked. What was he tasting, exactly? Was this how rich people ate? He could not help but feel he had eaten something far more fancy than he should be allowed the privilege of. Meal finished after dozens of small bites, the chimera excused himself.

Guided towards a guestroom, a large fluffy bed awaited the soldier. Pulling himself under the covers, the hyena attempted to close his eyes. But, sleep never came. Hours on end passing with toss and turns, the early adult rose from the rich people bed. Sleep was impossible. Standing upright, the chimera excused himself.

Midnight hour striking, the early adult could feel himself remain wide awake. Walking around in a circle upon the guestroom floor, the hyena blinked. The blacksmith. Perhaps he should go outside and take a second look while he remained awake. Lowering his walk into a tiptoe, the soldier ascended the staircase of darkness.

Removing himself from the boutique, the hyena walked towards the blacksmith area. Reaching the service center after twenty minutes of walking, the hyena attempted to gaze at the area in the corner. Such, however, was cut short as a person soon walked by with booted footsteps.

Tall, dark blue haired woman with a large pointy hat, over shoulder jacket corset and gun in her left hand, the early adult let out a gulp. Had someone on guard noticed him and been ordered to shoot him down? He needed to run now, or he would be put on trial at the shake of the ram chimera's tail.

"What do you want?" the gun wielding lady asked. "Are you here to--." But, such words were after were never heard.

Gun looking ready to zero in on his short body, the soldier made a run for it. Dashing as fast as his legs would carry him, the boutique had been getting closer as the seconds sped themselves up. Sprinting back down the stairs, the soldier returned to the fluffy bed. Instant wave of tiredness coming over him, a question devoured the soldier alive as sleep took him away. Was the city heavily guarded? If such were the case, he knew one thing for certain.

He could not step out of line. Fontaine was the Nation of Justice.

***

"This guy is the one!
He's Dendro, just like me!
I'm certain this time, he's the one for me.
Siorc, that's even a name native to Fontaine!

Oh, I'm tingling with romantic feelings!
Now the he's gone out for
Exploring, I accidently blurt out as

I am helping prepare dinner. 'This one is a keeper! He's cute, and he's Dendro!' I
Shouted aloud, no filter

As usual. But, Baron cuts in. 'You

Know as well as I do that once he sees your penguin feet he's going to leave you.'
Eeew, this conversation again?
Every failed relationship was just a test!
Penguin feet, shmenguin feet. 'This time, it'll work out!' I
Exclaimed. 'And then, I'll ask to be his wife!'
Regarding me with a glare, they whip out the usual question. 'Don't you mean husband?'

I fire back, 'No. Wife!' A

Wife, someone's wife, how incredibly dreamy!
And as usual, Baron is a stick in the mud. 'Even I can see he has absolutely
No interest in you.'
There he goes again! 'He'll warm up

To me!' Surely, he's just playing hard to get! Yes, that's it!
'Oh, brother, here you go again with your unrealistic outlook on romance.'

Bite into a bit of fantasy pie, Baron! Isn't
Everything so boring looking at things through a lens of realism?

Ho hum. What a load of hooey! Love is the world of fantasy! 'What can
I say, I'm a hopeless romantic!'
So, there you have it! But, Baron isn't fresh out of lines to try to.

Wring me back around to the cushions of what's expected.
'I'm guessing you mean that literally.' As literal as
Foie Gras overcooked! I am a hopeless romantic indeed!
Even so, this guy's the one, I guarantee!"

Waking up the next morning, thumping feet from up above disturbed the soldier from his deep slumber. What in the world was all that noise? Had business hours already begun? Removing himself from the fluffy bed, the early adult barreled up the stairs. It was time to go back to work. But, as he prepared to leave, the leader amongst the penguin chimeras called out to him.

"Good morning, darling," Malika greeted, voice full of energy. "You are studying energy sources, correct?" Extremely fancy suit in her hands, her sibling was soon next to her. "Earl will be taking you to the Opera House. But, first Baron needs to deliver a suit to a very important person." Folding the corners of the sleeves, she returned her attention to the young man. "Maybe you will come across some of the energy sources you're searching for. Why not join them until the Aquabus arrives at the port?"

"Palais Mermonia again?" Baron asked Malika. Sister nodding, he turned towards the Fatui. "I do not believe there will be anything of particular note there. But, wait for me outside, and we shall depart together."

Baron stepping outside, the soldier blinked. Was heading to a palace really going to provide him with any answers? Baron had to have been right. But, he supposed it wouldn't hurt to check such a place out, for the time being. Preparing himself for his departure, the boutique dresses soon spotlight themselves as a distraction.

The fancy, Fontaine attire, he wished to wear it. The dresses, they had to have been made out of the most expensive silk imaginable. The silky, smooth clothing, he needed it. The lace, the frills, they had to grace his body. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, getting distracted? He needed to remain focused.

Readying himself to leave, the soldier's eyes wandered towards the dresses once more. But as the exit door was almost upon him, his body crashed into someone with a loud thud. Flinching for a moment, the early adult backed three steps away. Looking up at the person he bumped into, an apology was on the back of his throat.

Kaiser in front of him with absolutely no makeup, plain, normal clothes, unmoisterized face, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. The penguin chimera was almost so average looking today, it was almost terrifying. Bowing an apology for bumping into him, sorries were soon returned in kind.

"Sorry. I'll move out of your way," Kaiser said, voice emotionless. "I must look really ugly right now, don't I?" Stepping out of the way, he turned his attention towards the Fatui. "That shirt you bought off me. Does it...fit you?" There was an uncomfortable pause between his words.

The early adult let out a sigh. Why was Kaiser bringing up the shirt now? Surely, it could have waited until later. But, he knew he could not ignore him. Now was not the time for such sort of cold shoulder treatment. Giving the penguin a nod, barely any reaction graced his face.

"Good, I'm glad," Kaiser responded, words emotionless. "I'll get out of your way."

Path to the door soon clear, the soldier staged his exit. The pesky penguin chimera, maybe he would be back to his aggravating self at some point. Closing the boutique door behind him, the sound of stomping boots overtook the outside world. Baron waiting outside, the escort to Palais Mermonia had begun.

Baron leading the way, the hyena swore he could hear them say this was all rather unrealistic. Hearing such, the early adult rose an eyebrow. What were they talking about? But, he supposed they were just mumbling to themself. Tuning them out, the northeastern walk continued.

Reaching a building with a creature on guard by the entrance, the early adult could not help but wonder. The short lady with sea creature like features, were there many of such people around the entirety of Fontaine with the same job opportunities as humans? Question rolling a pebble around in his mind, the early adult wondered further. Chimeras in Fontaine society, were they considered equals? Humans, chimeras, beasts, robots and in between, surely every species had to have the same opportunities as one another in the Nation of Justice.

Guided through the door, a spacious office room with gadgets bleeding through the tables caught the hyena's attention immediately. Spotting a weird device with multiple lettered and numbered buttons with paper sticking out the top side, the early adult blinked. What could have been powering such a machine? Absolutely fascinating.

Baron telling him to move along, a door soon opened. Told he will be stepping into the Iudex's office and to behave himself, the soldier took a deep breath. Was this the important person they were handing the suit over to? If such were the case, he needed to keep himself quiet, guaranteed.

Tall, white haired man with blue streaks, sharp dark violet eyes, and fancy suit as dark as night seated in a desk doing mountain of paperwork, the chimera could feel a wave of unease flow through him. He could not help but feel a wave of inferiority flow through him staring at this man.

"Monsieur -----------," Baron said, placing a suit on the man's desk. A long name had been said, but the chimera could not hear it. "Your new suit has been tailored."

Iudex's sharp eyes soon gazing at him, unease swung and hit a home run. Was he just imagining it, or was he cross examining him as if he were standing on trial? Realizing such, the soldier recalled something he had heard from Fontaine citizens visiting Liyue. The Hydro Nation, they had a high authority person known as the Chief Justice. The Iudex, he was such person in high power, for sure.

"Monsieur Baron, you have brought an unfamiliar face with you," the Iudex said.

"He is some foreign exchange student from Sumeru who came here to study energy sources, Monsieur -----------," Baron lied. "If I were to come alone as per instruction, you have my utmost apologies."

Suit delivered in full, the early adult held back the urge to gasp as the Palais Mermonia was soon exited. Did Baron just lie? Surely, telling the Iudex he was a member of the Fatui would not cause too much suspicions. But, such thoughts were short lived. Realist penguin leading the way, the next glass lift was soon upon him.

Reaching the next aquabus station, Baron returned themselves to the glass box. Earl waiting for him patiently as if he were expecting some sort of date, the hyena let out a deep exasperated sigh. Why did he look like he was about to blush? This was work, not some romantic get together to behold.

Ride soon arriving with a pink skinned tour guide with spiky brown hair and rosy uniform to match, a red cheeked Earl pulled the soldier up onto the vehicle. Seeing such, the early adult rolled his eyes to the sky. He could lift himself up onto the boat. Sitting on the opposite end of the pesky penguin, the tour soon began.

Tour guide explaining the Aquabus would be heading for the Marcotte Station, the early adult remained still. Would another long aquarail ride await him? Patience was a virtue. Creature in the front speaking about the nation of justice once more, the soldier gazed at the boat underneath him. The Merusea Village native, surely she had to have been the one giving the boat energy to move.

Hearing roaring falls off in the distance, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just how many waterfalls did Fontaine contain? Could the nation's waters have been powering something? Such had to have been possible. The Hydro Archon, her nations waters were doing something, for sure.

Spotting a station around the corner, the chimera blinked. Was the Aquabus tour almost over already? What an incredibly short water line, if such were the case. Vehicle soon parked into place, people looking ready to leave the area were lined up almost around the entire station.

Exiting the vessel of many mysteries, the pesky lovestruck penguin soon stepped beside him. Informed the opera house was a slight walk ahead, the hyena steeled himself. What energy source would await him upon entering the house of entertainment? Whatever was about to await him, he needed to be ready for anything.

Descending a short staircase, a roaring fountain awaited the chimera. People and fancy dogs bustling about the walkway, the early adult blinked at the sight before him. Did even the nation's pets have to be adorn fancy hats and clothing? The dress code was terrifying. Long path towards the south about to be upon him, the early adult braced himself.

Reaching an area with a small sprinkler in a pond of water, the early adult blinked. Just how many fountains were on the way to the opera house? Ducks cruising through the water side to side, the group of two kept on walking. Long straight pathway towards the next area standing in front of him, the destination was nearing slowly, but surely.

Yet another fountain passed by, the party of two curved upon the pathway a smidgeon, Earl stating there was something cool along the way, the soldier followed his lead. Walking off the trail and towards a grassy hill, the soldier held back the urge to shake his head. What could be so out of this world they had to walk off course for?

Taken to an area with a man standing beside a kamera held on top of a strange stand, the pesky penguin chimera pointed towards the object in question he deemed to be cool. Dancing robots that looked to be like some sort of couple utilizing the powers of ice and wind, the early adult rose an eyebrow. The robots exercising in an arena, what could possibly be powering them? He would need to investigate further later.

Returned back towards the pathway, the opera house was nearing. Multiple couples gathered around the largest fountain of them all on the premises, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Where was he, fountain land? Just how many pools of pouring water did one area need? But, the soldier taped such thoughts shut. He was overreacting, for certain.

Guided through the opera house entranceway, a spacious room with empty couches and bookshelves awaited the chimera. But, such room was moved away from, in an instant. Doors opening to a large theater with at least three hundred seats, the early adult could not help but feel he had been standing in a courtroom, and not a performance area. Guided through the audience, something of particular note called out to the soldier.

Standing upon the stage on a podium had been a large red scale with four dots growing bigger in size as it reached towards the bottom. Water droplets serving as the objects that tipped, the chimera could feel buckets of sweat pour down his backside. What was that mysterious mechanism? He could sense a deep amount of power coursing through it. Earl looking as though he had something to say, he soon announced himself.

"That's the oratrice!" Earl announced, pointing. "It's the main source of all of Fontaine's energy!" Face turning pink, he put on a smile. Could the Oratrice judge him on his current and past feelings of men? But, he soon continued his explanation. "It apparently has the final say in court cases here, go figure!" But, his cheeks were soon flushed. "I wonder if it can judge us on whether we'd be a good couple or not?"

The early adult rolled his eyes to the ceiling. No way would he want to see such a form of judgement on his compatibility with the pesky penguin chimera. There was no way he would ever let himself be compatible with such annoyance. Gazing at the scale on stage once again, the hyena blinked. How could such a device be all of Fontaine's source of energy? Surely, that wasn't all there was to see. But, as if luck were on his side, the next bit of information was revealed to him.

"But, I think there's more sources of energy north of the Court of Fontaine!" Earl announced. "Not many, but still!"

Earl encouraging him to explore once they returned to the capital city, the Aquabus ride back was soon upon the thorn in his side and he. Reaching the Navia Line station after about an hour long ride, the penguin chimera pressed a button within the glass room to reach the highest floor possible within the city walls.

Reaching an area with multiple dirt roads and grassy paths, and small decaying areas beside an ocean off in the distance, the early adult blinked. Would there really be any sort of energy sources to take note of and study out here? Heading north, multiple peculiarities caught the chimera's attention, in an instant.

Large field with purple flowers and water everywhere the eyes could see, the early adult turned up his nose. Nature and he were on a break. Attention removed from that plants, a strange machine stood in the way of the area. Large device looking as though it needed to be hit with something, the soldier kept a mental log of such phenomenon.

Continuing alongside towards the mountains, another peculiarity stuck out to the soldier. Dark purple hexagram sitting upon a circle in the middle of the road, the hyena tilted his head. Was the area north of the Court of Fontaine the territory of some sort of Electro witch? If such were the case, he needed to be careful.

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part.

Hexagram protruding a dark and sinister aura, a group of bony wolf monsters released themselves from the six sided star. Enemies looking ready to pounce on him at any given moment, the hyena headed for the hills. Had some sort of magic wielding mage been attempting to lay a curse on him with a canine enemy? He needed to run, get away, be outside the creature's gaze before it was too late.

Such escape was futile. Bony wolves blasting a beam of energy his way, the soldier had been caught in the crossfire from afar. Energy depleting faster with every given second, the early adult grit his teeth. What incredibly rude monsters. Creatures soon turning back towards the direction they came, the hyena attempted to shake off the blow gifted to him.

Continuing upon the pathway, the early adult studied the pathway. Multiple robot monsters of various different functionalities rolling around the area, the hyena could not help but wonder. The oratrice, could it have been powering all of Fontaine's machinery, as well? But, the chimera pushed such thought off a cliff. Surely, their energy and the scales were two different things.

Strolling through the northern path, another oddity screamed out to the soldier. Cube like water walkways floating above the walkway, the hyena could not help but wonder. How could someone walk on top of such? There was no way such was designed with anyone but the birds in mind. But, he supposed avian creatures were entitled to a safe and soft landing higher above the ground.

Noting a beach had been off towards the distance in the east, the soldier placed his finger on his chin. Could there have been more energy sources by the ocean in the corner? The hyena supposed taking a look would provide answers. Heading towards the eroding sands, the chimera would not falter.

But, as the soldier prepared to set foot on the land of sand, large monsters made only out of pure water burst into action. Creatures launching fast punches almost as swift as a jet stream, the hyena jumped towards the right and left. Why were the monsters so filled with rage? Even the creatures of the open wilderness were filled with feelings of justice.

Monsters avoided one after another, a sight for sore eyes awaited the soldier. Peculiar looking aircraft standing dormant on the grass, the hyena blinked. Was this some sort of fancy Slime Balloon with monsters inside the deep pits of the device? Odd machines beside a boating wheel, the chimera kept note of such balloon object for later.

Spotting a small tower off in the distance, the early adult prepared himself for takeoff. The building across the area, could it have contained some energy sources? He knew he needed to take a look at such as soon as possible. But, as he headed closer towards the target of interest, the next obstacle stepped up to the plate.

Racket of bows and arrows from the skies above him, the hyena tilted his head upward. But, the sight before him made the soldier's pupils grow smaller than the size of a pea on a dinner plate. The hawk and falcon chimera, they were riding the wind. If the hawk were to see him as he approached the tower, it was game over.

Tiptoeing to the small tower in the corner, the early adult prayed to the seven above that the hawk chimera would not spot him, for any reason. But, such was an immediate failure to be had, for sure. Seeing a glint glow red inn the sky, the soldier gulped. It was over, he was spotted. The towels had to be thrown.

Meka next to him defeated from afar, the soldier's heart sunk towards the bottom of his stomach. He was next. Any second now, an arrow would take him out of the picture and kiss him goodnight. Glint from the sky shining once more, an electrified weapon circled upon the air.

Arrow nailing itself into him with the force of a tiger running at high speeds, the soldier let out a scream as a barrage of weapons had begun to come for his limbs and joints. Extremely precise shots locking him down one after another, his body had been thrusted towards the tower in the corner. Nailed down as if in a certain position religions in another world would yell about, willpower was ready to die. Robin flying downward towards him, shouts decorated the building.

"You Fatui Fiend! What are you doing in my territory?!" Robin shouted, pointing in an accusatory manner. "If you don't stay away from my bounties, or I'll have you tried in court so you can be locked up!" But, another voice soon joined the conversation.

"Hon, pinning the Fatui against the wall like that isn't very nice," Raven retorted. Landing on the ground he removed the arrows lodged into the man's wrist. "He is barely a threat, methinks."

Freed from arrow prison, the hyena waved the invisible white flag. Right, this was Robin's territory, he could not be in such area while he was patrolling, or he would be the prime candidate as his next bounty. He would need to proceed with caution going forward. Knowing it would be impossible to investigate energy sources with the hawk on duty, the soldier turned his heelless shoes off towards the opposite direction. Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to return after the midnight hour, for the time being.

Returning to the apartment beneath the boutique, the soldier let out a sigh. He supposed, he at least learned a little something about the energy sources located around Fontaine. The scale, the blocks, the strange balloon, all of them had their share of power throughout the nation, for sure.

Fancy dinner ready and waiting, the soldier seated himself. Plate of Foie Gras in front of him, the hyena could not help but ponder. Were penguins carnivores? Two expensive meat dishes in a row, surely, that was not healthy if they were chimeras who were omnivorous. But, he supposed it was rude of him to judge other's diets.

Knifeless meal of many juiced meats out of the way, the hyena retired towards the guest bedroom. But, as the hours of sleeplessness droned about, the soldier knew. The perfect time to return to observe the energy was now. Dashing out of the boutique, the chimera headed north.

Dashing through the mountains, a wave of confidence flowed through the hyena. The tower in the corner, surely, it had to have some energy he was unable to catch a glimpse of earlier. But, as he had reached the halfway point, hands soon grabbed a hold of his wrists.

"Why did you try to sneak out again, pal?" Earl asked, gripping his wrist even tighter. "Haven't you ever heard of the dissolving girls cold case?"

Wrist gripped into a tight lock, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the midnight sky. The dissolving girls case, why was that something that mattered to him? He was neither male nor female. If such former court case were unsolved, it held no water. Breaking free from the gripping prison, the soldier attempted to bolt, but freedom was taken away, in an instant.

"I know what you're thinking! You're a dude, you won't be dissolved!" Earl exclaimed as if he knew what he was thinking. "But, you look like a girl, and you could easily be mistaken for one and become the next victim!" Pushing him towards the opposite direction, he kept going. "I don't want your cute body to become a puddle of water! We're going back to the boutique!"

Not given a choice in the matter, the early adult admitted defeat in silence. Dragged back towards the boutique, the hyena waved the white flag. The dissolving girls case, was that something that could have really happened? Surely, such a thing was not possible in modern times.

Guided back to the guestroom, a wave of tiredness overtook the chimera. Crawling back into the fluffy bed, the world of sleep was ready to invite him back in for the evening. Objective looping on repeat in his brain, the land of tormented dreams was ready to pull him into its clutches. But, as the land of the subconscious was ready to claim him, one final thought repeated for the last time.

He had to gather energy sources tomorrow.

***
"Perhaps, I am missing understanding something.
No, those energy blocks I am seeing, those
Energies I am witnessing. Are they some sort of elements I have never seen before? They seem to be
Unleashing powers all their own. I don't quite understand.
Maybe I am overthinking.
Ah, yes, that's it, I am overthinking. I

Am jumping to conclusions. But,
Now I am confused. Are there elements beyond the seven? I
Do not know if I comprehend this.

Ousia? Pneuma? I am
Unable to understand. For
So many years, all I have ever known were the seven. All
I have ever known were
Anemo, Cryo, Dendro, Electro, Geo, Hydro, Pyro.

Even my parents teachings in my stolen childhood
Never mentioned Ousia and Pneuma.
Everything is making little sense.
Really, I do not get this.
Guess I need to gather the energy sources.
Yes. That is what I must do.

But, I will remain skeptical.
Looks like these new elements are
Opposing forces.
Could this be some sort of secret in Fontaine?
Knowing Her Majesty, though, she is aware.
She already knows everything, I am certain."

Agent storming into the apartment below the boutique the next morning, the hyena could feel his heart skip three beats. How did he know where he was located? But, he supposed the walls had eyes alongside its ears. Ordered to gather the energy sources north of the court, a bag had been thrown his way with gusto.

Satchel scratching up his palms a new one, the hyena flinched. What was the bag made out of, steel? Knowing he had to proceed with utmost caution, the early adult prepared himself to head towards the glass room once again. But, as he prepared to exit the boutique, information had come his way.

"Darling, we're going with you," Malika said. "Customers have told us something dangerous has been going on up north. We want to get to the bottom of it." She then turned towards Kaiser. "Kaiser, man the fort for us while we're gone? Remember, kick out any customers who are disrespectful!"

Trio exiting the boutique, the hyena blinked. Malika was a very thorough businesswoman, for sure. Removing himself from the esteemed clothing store, as well, the glass room had been returned to after what felt like the seventh time over the past three days. Group heading northwest, a peculiar sound overtook the area.

Malika, Earl and Baron slipping high technology fighting gloves over their hands, the early adult could feel questions begin to crash at bay. Were the penguin siblings all wearing gauntlets? Had such weapon been Fontaine's signature style of fighting? If such were the case, he stood no chance. He had been none the wiser to direct elemental punches.

Reaching an area with strange blocks of energy, the hyena could not help but wonder. How was he supposed to gather sources of energy? Surely, they were not something he could just take like they were an object. But, as baron punched with their rocky gloved fists, an object fell to the ground.

"It's a Pneuma energy block," Baron said. They then motioned their free finger back and forth. "Put it in the bag."

Dropping the block of energy into the bag, the early adult tilted his head. What in the world was Pneuma energy? Whatever it was, he knew he would have to find out later, or he was a pile of burned toast to Her Majesty. Party of three moving forward, the northern path was the only one.

Guided towards a purple block of energy next, the soldier swore he heard the word Ousia soon stated, as well. Pneuma, Ousia, were those part of Fontaine's main energy sources? If such were the case, a deep study was a mandatory course of action to take as the beaches grew closer.

But, as the northern walk continued, a repeated phenomenon overtook the area. Hexagram on the ground looking ready to summon a mystery monster, the chimera let out a gulp. Why was this magical circle from the other day still here? Surely, it had to have been removed from the area after he bolted.

"It's rather unusual for Beast Circles to appear around here," Baron said, hand on their chin. "Did someone try to recreate one from the depths of Elynas?" They then clicked their tongue. "Tch, lame. People who do these sorts of thing should keep themselves grounded in reality and not try and change unnecessary things."

Hearing Baron just click their tongue, the hyena's ears perked. Did they just say this entire situation was lame? How peculiar, such sounded unnatural, coming from the shortest penguin chimera. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What did he care? It mattered not to the soldier.

Bony beasts from the world beyond stepping out of the portal, punches of ice, nature and rock kept exchanging blows one after another. Multiple close range blows firing one after another, the early adult backed ten steps away. Was this how people battled in Fontaine? How mesmerizing. The Hydro Nation of Justice had to have had their own form of fighting techniques, for sure.

Group of monsters destroyed after thirty punches between the trio had been exchanged, multiple blocks of energy threw themselves down onto the ground. Everything placed into the satchel, the group had begun to head towards the eastern area towards the beaches of Fontaine.

But, as the group had begun to head north and energy sources galore scooped up, the dormant aircraft awaited the hyena. Curiosity soon pushing a kitten into the river, the early adult could not help but wonder. The air based vehicle, should be test out where it were to head if one placed themselves in it? He supposed it was worth a shot.

Malika informing him the aircraft would only work if powered by Fontaine energy, her gauntlets punched a box off in the corner of the machine. Aircraft soon ascending towards the sky, the soldier closed his eyes, or a moment. He was about to ride through the wind? If a castle awaited him in the sky, Mondstadt would be brought to shame.

Balloon vehicle circling around the area for minutes on end, the hyena gazed at the aircraft's steering wheel. Was it truly only possible to power the engine with Fontaine energy sources? Perhaps, just maybe, such had been the reason no such forms of transportation existed beyond the Nation of Justice.

Ride soon stopping midair, an aquatic walkway opened up to the hyena. Aircraft no longer receiving power, shouts overtook the skies. Malika explaining from afar to keep going he needed to insert a power block into the engine, the early adult hopped onto the blocks of water. Path oddly solid, the chimera's legs erupted into a sprint.

Block of energy gathered, the hyena sped off towards the aircraft. Vehicle soon powered up once more, it continued to float upon the predetermined pathway. But, as the end of the path were soon reached, the soldier blinked. He had already reached the end? He supposed it was time to head back.

Aircraft returning to its original position, the trio headed towards the northeastern most path. Told there had been some other energy sources always found on the beach, the hyena followed behind in silence. But, as the sands of Fontaine were closing in on him, the sound of arrows filled the sky once more.

Hawk and falcon chimeras going about their bounty hunting duties once more, the early adult held back a gulp. There was still monsters to be destroyed out here? It was almost as if, a god from beyond his scope of sight had been controlling the outcome all along, but the early adult snapped such thoughts away. He was overthinking such. This was the bird chimera's territory. They would be in the same spot twice in a row.

Spotting a red tint in the sky again, the early adult prepared himself for the weapon barrage about to rain down upon him from the world above him. Bracing himself for impact, the hyena sighed. Was the violence about to rain down on him truly necessary? This had to have been a reach too far to vanquish perceived evil, for sure.

Arrows raining down on him one after another like a torrential downpour, the young soldier let out a pained scream. The hawk, why couldn't he just focus on his own bounties? He had to have been getting tired of going after him with his sea of weapons. Wasn't arrowing him to the knee the last encounter more than enough already?

"Hey! Watch where you're throwing those things!" Earl shouted, pointing at the sky. "You just hit a cutie!" But, shouts were soon returned in kind.

"Are you kidding me? Cute? That Fatui is the least cute person here!" Robin shouted back. "This Fatui is in my territory! Justice will be served for trespassers like him!" He then pointed at the penguin. "I bet he's trying to recruit you into his villain army, too!"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Not this ridiculous, annoying conversation again. There was no way he would ever recruit other chimeras into Her Majesty's army. Even if he had such authority, such would not happen. The pesky penguin chimeras, even they did not need to be subjected to such world of torment. No way, not in a million years.

"So, be it, then! I'll let him recruit me!" Earl responded with confidence. "And then, I'll be his villain wife!"

The early adult let out a groan. What, in all of Teyvat was going on in Earl's head? There was absolutely no way he would ever marry a penguin chimera. Absolutely disgusting. The entire family was a group full of aggravating people. Becoming a part of such family would bring shame to his own bloodline for sure. No way, never, he wouldn't even marry into the pesky penguin family even if he was forced to give up his own life if rejection resulted in death.

"Do you know how much of an inconvenience you are being right now?" Baron complained, adjusting their monocle. "It would be in your best interest to let us onto the beach. We have business here too."

"Hon, please let them pass," Raven said. "We'll move towards the southwest. Our territory is everywhere, no?"

Robin oddly agreeing, the bird chimeras flew off the scene. Beach soon growing quiet, the quartet placed themselves on the world of sand. But, a disturbance had soon interrupted the forces of nature as the ocean breeze grew colder with every given second passing. Turning towards the disturbance, everything changed, in an instant.

Peculiar orb like life forms swirling with chaotic energy, the soldier could feel his heart skip a beat. What in the world were those orbs on he beach? Were they a large conglomerate of energy sources? If such were the case, he needed to collect them right away. But, as he stepped forward. a barrage was ready and waiting for him.

Monsters looking ready to get on the offensive, the hyena grit his teeth. Was he about to get turned into a bowl of energy soup? He needed to defend himself at all costs. Group of orbs soon coming together, right now, over him fear had begun to nibble on the soldier's fingers. Any second now, he was energy soup, ingredients: him. But, Malika had soon come to the rescue.

"Darling, you might have to fight this one with us," Malika said, pointing at the orbs. "What is your battle style?"

Inquiry coming his way, the hyena placed his hands in front of him. Pretending he had a claymore in his palms, the soldier swung on the air as if he were fighting with a greatsword. Turning his attention towards Malika, he mouthed the world claymore. Would his wordless language get through, the hyena sure hoped so.

"Claymore? Sorry, darling, that's not something I can give you," Malika responded to his wordless language. "Do you mind borrowing gauntlets?"

Elemental gloves handed to him, the early adult shrugged. He supposed, for the time being making use of gauntlets would have to do. Slipping the garments on, the soldier could feel elemental energy move towards his fists. Was this what it felt like to only be able to fight at close range? He supposed he was about to find out.

Leather ripping his skin, the world around him burned. These gloves, were they made out of the worst material of all time? But, the early adult knew he had no choice but to bear it. Malika telling him in order to use the gauntlets properly, he would have to channel all his energy into his fists, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Right, channel his energy into his fists. Surely, that would be simple enough.

Malika unleashing her icy punching fists of pain, the early adult attempted to shadow her movement. Orb creature frozen for twenty seconds, the hyena tried to land his first punch of Dendro. But, such had been a failure. Fist missing by multiple kilometers, the soldier wound up a second fist.

Earl soon landing a grassy punch of doom, the hyena attempted with all his might to land his fiery fist of nature, as well. But, such had become the second whammy, in an instant. Gauntlets hitting the ground instead of the enemy, the chimera let out a grunt. He needed to stop missing so easily.

Baron laying down the law with a rocky fist of fury, the soldier wound up another punch. Third attempt failing as well, the early adult let out another grunt. Just what was he doing wrong? Group of three siblings keeping their elemental boxing show going, the soldier closed his eyes. Right, channel his elemental energy into fist. That was the only way.

Feeling the power of Dendro at his fingertips, the early adult soon joined the punching party. Orb creatures looking ready to break at any given moment, a celebration had been on the hyena's mind. Any second now, and the monsters would drop into pieces. But, such had soon proven to be far from the truth.

Orb of purple energy shielding itself up, the early adult's eyes grew wide. The monster still had some tricks up its circular sleeves? If such were the case, he needed to find a way to turn the tables, immediately. Closing his eyes for a moment, the hyena heaved a sigh. He supposed he had no choice but to rely on his Vision's other capabilities.

Shield looking rather thick, the early adult threw down a flower fiend. Silk Flower he wanted no part of acting as a decoy while the penguin siblings punched with a fervor, the plant brought to life by his Dendro Vision danced on the sandy beaches. Providing silent commands to the unwanted familiar, their vines soon hit the orb creatures of various breaking defenses.

Shields cracking one after another, the final round of punches overtook the area. As the fists had gained speed, the early adult swore he could hear the words muda, muda, muda, muda said over and over again. Whatever those words meant, the soldier was none the wiser to the possible definition. He supposed it was a common Fontainain phrase during the heat of a battle.

Foreign orb monsters expanding as they blew up into hundreds of scattered pieces, part of the strange creatures condensed themselves into small energy orbs. Group of seven alien balls dropped into the satchel, the hyena blinked. Were these truly the energy sources he was ordered to retrieve? If they were not, he was in trouble, guaranteed.

Everyone coming to an agreement enough energy sources had been gathered, the boutique was soon returned to. Malika announcing a victory feast, the hyena could not help but wonder as he bit into the fancy meat dish in front of him. Why did Fontaine have so many energy sources? He could not help but feel malicious ones were beginning to leak out and hide themselves in plain sight.

Victory feast soon coming to an end, the boutique door up above slapped the wall against it. Hearing such, the early adult could feel his meal flip upside down in his stomach. The Agent, how did he know where he was again? He could not help but feel a wave of unease once more.

Agent demanding he hand over the bag, the soldier did as instructed. Subordinate counting every energy source collected, the hyena let out a gulp. If he were even one energy source short, his life was over, guaranteed. But, as the counting stopped, the atmosphere grew softer.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent said, pride leaking through his voice. "Return to Snezhnaya at once." As he said such, he teleported out of the area.

"You're leaving now?" Earl asked, look of sorrow deeply painted on his face. "Are you ever coming back?"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the ceiling. What was with this overdramatic theatrics of sadness? Had this man been so smitten he had become attached? Absolutely ridiculous. But, the soldier knew, there was no way his missions within Fontaine would be a one time trip. Nodding, the soldier prayed to the Hydro Archon the annoying conversation would end here.

"Come back soon!" Earl exclaimed, bidding his farewells.

Removing the proxy orb from his back pocket, the hyena highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. Fast travel soon confirmed, the chimera closed his eyes. Walking through the icy cold hallways, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. The penguin chimeras were the bane of existence. Steel walled room reached after twenty minutes of walking, the soldier paced around in a circle upon the frozen floor.

Fontaine's oratrice, did it truly contain all of the nation's energy? The soldier could not help but feel that soon, an energy crisis would plague the nation. The beast circles, the penguin pests had stated they usually only appeared in Elynas. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. There was no way he would get answers to such questions.

Wave of tiredness overtaking him, the hyena removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, as well, the early adult closed his eyes as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep calling him back in, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

His journey in Fontaine is just beginning.

Chapter 2: The Ice Rock Incident: Extraterrestrials in Liyue

Chapter Text

"I am starting to think,
Something is changing.

Fontaine, am going to be sent here more
Often now?
Now I am starting
To think this might be
A brand new routine.
If that is truly the case, I am
Not ready. The nation of Justice,
Everything is unknown to

Me here.
Yes, I should start preparing. Another

Routine is forming.
Obviously, Her Majesty wants to take over
Ultimately, a storm is brewing.
Though, I suppose this
Is a given, she wants the world.
No matter how many years it's been since she took me away,
Everything remains the same.

Now, I suppose I cannot complain,
Over these past seven years or so, I have seen the
World. Almost everywhere into Teyvat.

I was whisked away here, yes. Stolen
From my family, but I

Suppose, getting to see the world is the
Only plus to my forced upon me career.

I don't know if Fontaine will be

All where I am headed to lately.
Maybe it will be.

No complaining, if so.
Obstruct those sorts of feelings,
Take a look at is ahead of me.

Riptides are coming.
Even if the days
All going forward are boring diplomacy,
Diligence is key.
Yes, that's the successful key to living as a member of the Fatui."

The sound of morning alarm bells screamed out for the entire Fatui population within the military barracks to hear, sans one. As the alarm bells continued their cacophonous rampage, hundreds of Fatui soldiers complained in a discordant chorus. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.

The grumbling complaints were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never being alerted to any sort of alarm bells, the early adult reached for his glasses. Lenses over his heterochromatic eyes, the hyena rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the chimera placed the winter jacket over his layered shirts, a sea of questions flowed through the soldier's partially human mind. Will he be heading to Fontaine more often now? He knows, if such is indeed the case, he would have to be on his toes at all times. But, the inquires swimming about did not end there.

Staring at the barricaded window, the questions continued. Gazing at the snow outside, the hyena could not help but wonder. Her Majesty, why did she want him to go to Fontaine after all this time? But, the chimera stopped himself from thinking further. Her Majesty, she wanted to conquer the world. Surely, this was just one step closer to such.

Attention returned to the workday at hand, the early adult removed the cover off his jewelry and accessory box. Spotting the sunflower set staring back at him, the young soldier turned up his nose at them. Nature and he have broken up. Clicking the weaponized strawberry set into his hair and ears instead, the early adult closed the lid. The flowers were out of sight, out of mind.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena stared at the yellow-green orb of many annoyances. The Gods, why did they decide he was Dendro? They could have blessed him with any other element except Pryo, and acceptance would have come the divine's way. But, he knew nothing could be done. He was Dendro; nothing can be done about it.

As the hyena put his heelless shoes over his currently human feet, the chimera shook his head. What's done is done. He knew, for as long as he were to continue living, his Vision will continue to exist. He knew, no matter what, destroying the orb was impossible. Living with such elemental powers attuned to nature was the only option.

Biting into his flavorless rations of sand, the soldier stared at the steel walls. What could possibly be in store for him today? He knew, no matter what, he had to be ready for anything. Only meal of the day devoured, and buttons in the correct holes, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the Fatui Agent's boots march onward inexorably, the soldier slapped his inhuman eardrums. Was it just him, or had his subordinate's steps gotten louder recently? Realizing such once more, the early adult had come to a conclusion he previous had come to three days prior. His hearing, it had gotten sharper. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. There was no time to think about such things. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You are heading to Liyue to deal with an extraterrestrial problem." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Another day, another separate affair.

The chimera jumped six steps back. Teyvat has aliens? How could something like that happen? Weren't the extraterrestrial just stories in fantasy novels? If they were truly real, there was no way he would be able to beat the unknown, guaranteed. They had to have powers beyond the seven elements to turn the tides.

The early adult stared off into space. The aliens, could they have just been monsters foreign to the Nation of Contracts? He supposed such could have been a possibility at his constantly transforming hands. If such were an option, he needed to prepare himself for such outcome, as well.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "We don't have time for this dawdling!" What could possibly be on the soldier's mind besides work? The Agent could not ever fathom what he could possibly be thinking. "There are other allies on the case, as well. So, quit standing around, and get a move on!" There was an irritated tone in his voice.

The hyena could feel a chill run down his spine. More soldiers had been roped into this? But, the early adult knew he had to stop thinking and prepare himself for the workday at hand. Work mode switch flipping upward inside him, the chimera took a long deep breath. Right, time had run out. He needed to focus.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Arm out in front of him, he waited for the escort to begin.

"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. "There are ice rocks everywhere, so tread carefully." Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight lock. Escort to Liyue Harbor about to begin, one final thought pushed the early adult out to sea.

Where could the aliens have possibly come from?

***

"Today, in our home, Loba informed me of something.
Her Majesty, Loba's big boss, has a mission for both she and me.
Eerie. As, I am not apart of the organization,
Yet sometimes, I seem to be seen as an honorary member.

Cannot really see why.
As, I only do
Most of this for Loba. Not to
Expand another nation's god's idealized

Fantasies of taking over the world.
Right, so she and I were summoned to the palace.
Over here, at the worst possible time.
Many other tribes seem to

Fighting. But, I guess such is a given here as
Our warring times are aplenty.
Never mind all that.
The Cryo Archon, I don't think I have ever
Actually met her in person.
I have heard she rarely gives herself up to an audience except her highest
Numbered soldiers. Loba is a medic,
Even I know this is once in a blue moon.

The god, she told Loba and I, there's aliens in Liyue, and we
Have to defeat them to
Ease relations between Liyue and the Fatui.

And I'm meant to be a part of this?
Loba, I am with you all the way as your sister, but
In all senses of the word, I am not a true fighter.
Even so, I know I cannot disobey. I've heard
Not many people come out alive
Saying they will not comply. So, for Loba, I'll do this. But no one else. Especially not that deity."

Upon reaching Liyue Harbor through the teleport waypoint, the early adult could not help but observe the peculiarities around him. Gigantic boulders covered to the brim with ice everywhere from every corner of the city, the soldier shivered a smidgeon. Was it just him, or was the nation slightly colder? He could not help but feel the new obstacles were affecting the region's climate.

Agent informing him a special claymore had been left for him at the blacksmith, the early adult titled his head. Why would he need a weapon with specialized properties? Surely, the large boulders can easily be removed with the slash of a normal claymore. Subordinate heading off towards the opposite direction, the hyena took a deep breath. He supposed it was best to do as he was told for the time being.

Walking past the restaurant booths on the eastern side, the hyena could not help but wonder further. Just what kind of claymore was he about to receive? He supposed he was about to find out. Ascending the staircase leading to the adventurer's guild and descending the one to the other side, the early adult prepared himself for the inevitable.

Blacksmith looking as though he were expecting him, a weapon of terrors was handed off to the soldier. Hard working weapon maker explaining the blade he was given has a built in flame, the chimera's knees shook with a fervor. The Agent requested a flamethrower greatsword be made for him? How absolutely terrifying.

Pressing a button in the center of the claymore's hilt, the metallic cutter burst into roaring flames in a matter of moments. Heat huddling around him with every given second, the soldier let out a scream. Was there an off button? Surely, there had to be one. Pressing the circular presser in the middle once more, the fire dissipated into nothing in a matter of moments.

Fear dying inside him after a few minutes, the early adult observed the area around him. Spotting six icy boulders close and afar. How would he go about defeating such things? He supposed, the terrifying sword of flames could do the talking. Figuring it was best to walk around on the northern street first, the young soldier turned back towards the direction he came.

Heading past the teahouse, the soldier turned his attention towards the tables. No one dining outside, the early adult kept walking. But, as he headed towards the toy seller in the corner, a peculiar sight stood out to the hyena. Loba and Aega using ice and wind elements upon the large obstacle before them, a wave of questions flowed through the chimera.

Aega casting spells of wind upon the obstacle before her in plain, Snezhnayan clothing, the early adult almost did a triple take in his mind. Was this truly Aega in Liyue, or had she been replaced with a nearly identical clone? Hair pulled back into pigtails, and a sergeant hat upon her, the soldier did a quadruple take. Maybe he had come across someone else.

Loba standing next to her in a feminine Fatui outfit very unlike her medical attire with a small mask over her eyes, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Was he really in the presence of the jackal twins? Maybe the two before him were other members of her family that were called to action. But, such thoughts were cut short as icy spells failed to scratch the boulder in front of the possible doppelgangers.

Party of two halting their attempts at destruction, the early adult let out a gulp as the set of four eyes wandered towards him. Jackal ladies studying him, for a moment, the hyena's heart skipped a beat, for a moment. Was he about to kicked off the premises? He recalled some Fatui were rather territorial about their work.

Seeing Siorc with a puzzled look on his face, Loba pointed at her mask. Was he confused over her current appearance? She supposed it was be in her best interest to explain why she was wearing such a thing. But, such could wait. Had he been assigned the duty of clearing out the various ice boulders, as well? The more people on the case, the better. But, something of immediate note caught her attention.

Spotting a Vision on his uniform, Loba hid the tiniest of smiles. So, the Archons blessed Siorc with a Dendro vision? Such element definitely suited him. Aega taking a moment to study the vision, as well, she turned her attention towards her kin. Did she, perhaps, think that as well?

Seeing Loba's subordinate Siorc staring at the boulder blocking the path, Aega shook her head at the sight of the Dendro Vision hooked over his belt. Such an element was useless here. It would only serve as a major slowdown to the mission in question. That boss of theirs, she never used her brain, did she?

"It's nice to see you again, honey," Loba greeted, voice soft. "Are you working on the ice rock incident as well?" She then pointed at her mask. "Did you not recognize me because of my mask? Sorry about that, honey. I've been told to wear it while in Liyue." But, the conversation swapped over to the opposite end.

"You have a Dendro Vision?" Aega asked. "Try not to slow everyone down. Don't you know Cryo and Dendro don't react to one another?"

The hyena let out a sigh. He was in the presence of Aega alright. He supposed it was dumb of him to assume otherwise. Knowing he would not be making use of his Vision, the early adult removed the terrifying flaming greatsword from behind him. Button in the center pressed, the blazing fire glowed upon the cold air.

Swiping the horrific flames upon the icy obstacle, the early adult grit his teeth as the searing onslaught did nothing. Icy rock not budging, the young soldier blinked of bewilderment. The boulder, was it able to resist the work of a claymore? How incredibly odd. Weren't greatswords the go to tool to gather minerals?

Taking a moment to refresh himself, the chimera rose the flames of many terrors once more. Rock not budging, even as his hits continued, the hyena broke out into a cold sweat. The boulder, why was it still not budging? But, he supposed he would have to try harder. Surely, it was one slash away from defeat.

Aega and Loba soon returning their own attacks to the mix, the soldier brought his blade forward for the third time. But, as if luck had left him, the boulder remained. Feeling a wave of surrender flowing through him, the chimera backed four steps away from the object. What is he doing wrong? Surely, the obstacle wasn't impenetrable. But, as he gave up the fight, words had come his way.

"It's alright if you want to give up honey, I won't tell Her Majesty," Loba said, voice sweet as honey. "Why don't you deal with the aliens instead?" Aega then tagged herself back into the ring.

"The aliens are making themselves comfortable around this city," Aega chimed in. "Neither Loba, nor I, know this nation very well."

Nodding, the hyena stepped off towards the northern pathway. He supposed, if the jackal twins were unfamiliar with the area, it was best to leave the alien lifeforms up to him. But, as he walked through the streets in front of him, peculiarities buzzed through by near the perfume seller.

Spotting another ice rock in the middle of the road near the flirty perfume seller, something of particular note caught the early adult's attention. Strange, orb creatures with purple cores in their center, the enemies lowered themselves towards the boulder. Creatures with no eyes ready to blast him a new one, the fight was on.

Spherical extraterrestrial creatures throwing themselves into a peculiar shape of rings as it jumped along the rock, the early adult placed the greatsword in front of him. Would the world of horrifying flames be able to do any justice? Fire burning in front of him as the cold air roared, the hyena closed his eyes for a moment. The flames were out of sight, out of mind.

But, such proved to be a grave mistake. Heat in front of him, the early adult shot his eyes back open. The warmth, it was everywhere. Tuning it out was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Creature moving off to the side, the hyena braced himself. The flames, he had no choice but to bear witness to them.

Orb creature blasting energy his way, the early adult rekindled the flame once more, but as he had done so, fear kicked into overdrive. The fire, it was right in front of him. In his face, ready to wreck havoc upon him with one wrong move. Blade not swinging forward as the monster of otherworldly properties came towards him, Siorc was a statue.

Projectiles coming his way as the flames in front of him burned brightly, the early adult's knees buckled. The fire, it was right, front, and center. Creature slamming itself onto the ground as it drew closer, the hyena remained still. Enemy continuing its jumps, the cold ground beneath him begun to shook.

Invisible chicken bawking up a storm, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What in the world is he doing, allowing fear to control him? Now was not the time to let fear factor into the equation. He had to fight back now. Orb creature getting closer to him with every step, the early adult's blade blew the torch of consequences upon the otherworldly creature.

Hits gifted upon a terrifying fiery platter, the early adult took a deep breath. The flames, they were only serving as is tool in battle. Nothing more, nothing less. Violet core in the creature's center combusting as if about to turn into fireworks, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. But, as he opened them once more, the defenses kicked in.

Creature surrounding itself with a shield, the early adult revved up the flame a smidgeon. Swiping from left to right, everything burned to cinders one after another with every continued strike. So called alien from another world looking about ready to return to its abode, the heated weapon set its sights on the center.

Blade and the core dishing out seven blows, the enemy from the unknown crumbled into nothing. Condensing itself into a ball, a shattering sound overtook the area. Hearing such, the early adult turned his attention towards the racket. But, as the sight before him took shape, realizations kicked in.

Icy boulder cracking into pieces as it became dust on the wind, the hyena had come to a quick conclusion. The obstacles, could it only be vanquished by defeating the aliens surrounding them? If combat were the only way to get rid of such obstacles, he supposed that was the only option.

Knowing violence was the only option, the early adult walked upon the middle streets. Usual hustle and bustle about nowhere to be seen, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. Where was everyone? But, he supposed if he saw terrifying creatures in the city, he would run away, as well.

Stepping across the bridge beside the so called teahouse, the hyena turned his attention towards the top floor. Spotting someone flipping coins up above, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. He supposed, not everyone felt fear. Continuing upon the pathway, nothing but gambling made some noise.

Spotting the funeral parlor director doing a dance as she ran off towards the wharf, the hyena let out a gulp. Had the Wangshen Funeral Parlor found some victims somewhere in Liyue Harbor? If such were the case, he needed to get out of her way, for sure. Walking past the house of death's pathway, a predictable sight soon awaited him as Feiyun Slope approached.

Ice rock right in front of him as the commerce guild streets shortened, the hyena prepared himself. Any minute now, and the next batch of aliens would rear their headless bodies. Steeling himself for the inevitable, the early adult placed the blade in front of him for the second time of the day.

Tiny orb creatures floating above the sidewalk as if they owned the joint, the hyena's fingers twitched around the button in the center. The flames, it was time to release them from the center. Heat billowing in his face as the fire had arisen, the chimera tuned the energy out. The battle before him was the only thing that needed his attention.

Enemies coming his way blasting fields of energy around their possible mother base, the early adult's flames and the creatures met. Fiery gift of doom surrounding each and every otherworldly spherical monster, shockwaves were returned in kind. Burning sensation cooled in seconds as if the icy air was an ocean, the soldier reset the baked element within.

Creatures evening the odds, the chimera attempted with all his might to get on the defensive. But, such had proven to be difficult. Obstacle almost as though it were some kind of rocky fence, movement had reached its limit. Enemies rampage kicking up into speed, forces slapped the soldier around like a ball game.

Flame edging the corner as the aliens continued to surround mother base, the early adult let out a battle cry. Surely, if he kept striking as they surrounded their object of interest, they'd be taken out of the picture. Bending his knees as the kindles burned, the flames and the enemies met with one another once more.

Shields up as the strikes gained speed, the hyena kept the momentum going. Defenses broken after thirty strikes, the early adult let out a pant. Rock slicing itself in half like a piece of bread on a dining table, the enemies dissolved into nothingness along with their possible mother base.

Pathway cleared, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Silence looping on repeat in every corner of the city, the soldier kept walking. Perhaps, it was best to not concern himself over the quietness evident throughout. Surely, the generic nobodies would return later.

Feeling a chill as the hyena kept walking through the business streets, the early adult broke out into a shiver for a moment. But, the chimera stopped himself from letting such action consume him. Why was he shaking? Winter air, he should have been used to such by now. The permafrost north, it was the home forced upon him many years ago. Cold breezes, surely, his body had been used to that by now.

Reaching the end of the shopping district after half-an-hour of walking, the early adult turned his attention towards the red staircase. Could some of the circular aliens be making themselves at home upstairs? He knew it was in his best interest to take a look. Ascending the wooden walkway, the hyena marched onward inexorably.

But, as the early adult reached the book booth, a sight to behold took the stage towards the bridge in the corner. Extraterrestrial creatures surrounding their rock base for what felt like the tenth time of the day, the hyena let out a sigh. What was it about rocks these creatures were drawn to?

The enemies, however, were not alone. Tall brunette and blue haired bookworm gazing at the sediment, the hyena blinked. These two, they were still in Liyue Harbor despite the chaos unleashed around them? How incredibly odd. But, he supposed, some people would try to attend to their hobbies no matter what the situation called for. Group looking ready to speak, the early adult halted himself from starting the battle.

"Mayhaps Rex Lapis is angry and unleashed the wrath of the rock?" the blue haired bookworm asked. But, a chuckle hit the book booth, in an instant.

"That seems like a logical conclusion to come to, Mr. -------," the tall brunette said, pondering.

As the party of two's study of the icy rock continued, alarm bells screamed about in the early adult's head. Enemies floating off towards the room of scrolls, the early adult dashed off towards the creatures. Were the spherical monsters about to take some literary causalities with them? He could not allow for such to happen.

Knowing fire was not an option, the early adult placed the blade in front of him. The spherical creatures, the only option was to strike with force. Keeping his finger away from the button in the center, the fight of nothing but greatsword swipes was upon him. But, as he had done such, difficulties had arisen from the ashes.

Cores getting on the defensive, the early adult blinked. Was it just him, or had the creatures layered themselves with steel? Blade doing absolutely nothing for minutes on end, sweat poured down the soldier's brow. The world of metals, they were a force to be reckoned with, for sure.

Enemies not letting it up for minutes on end, the hyena grit his teeth. But, the soldier kept the momentum going. Surely, if he kept bringing it all against the metal barriers, they would crack after some time. But, such had been an incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part.

Creature dropping itself into its metal barricade like a turtle in its shell, the soldier kept the slashes going. Failure continuing to roll the dice to land a one every time, dark aura creeped up from behind him. Enemy before him not budging, the other orb creatures joined their metallic shell defense squad.

Icy wind laughing at him, the early adult bellowed a growl. The defenses, they were impenetrable, indeed. But, the hyena knew flames were not the answer. If any scrolls were to burn, responsibilities for the incent would be on him, fully. The limited bladeworks were the only way.

Blue haired bookworm letting out a battle cry and shouting something about the power of Guhua, the hyena jumped seven steps back as swords of water surrounded him. The young man, what was he doing? Wouldn't he get the scrolls wet? Boy's watery weapons hitting the boxy shields, the soldier stepped five steps further back.

Barraging torrents submerging shields aplenty, the early adult's jaw dropped open. The bookworm, how incredible, his watery blade works were only touching the enemies. Such control, such fineness, he could not help but feel a sting of green at his capabilities. Damp projectiles soon reaching their end, the young man soon did a backflip.

Small water swords soon surrounding the alien's defenses, a cracking sound flowed through the area. Creatures ripe for the picking, the hyena placed his blade in front of him once more. Slamming the heavy, two-handed weapon upon the wooden floor, the spherical enemies were pushed forward.

Blade doing the rest of the talking in tandem with the bookworm, the final blows had been upon the enemies. Orbs condensing themselves to their very cores, the early adult stared at the rift down below him. These creatures, why they set their sights on Liyue? Rock obstacle soon cracking down the center, a new round of information had come the chimera's way.

Tall brunette informing the soldier more of the orb creatures were spotted around the wharf, the early adult dashed down the staircase as if he had seen a ghost. There was even more trouble brewing in the most populated area in the city? He needed to solve the issue so the streets were safe again right away.

Aliens floating about everywhere the eye could see, the early adult cracked his currently human knuckles. The orb creatures had made themselves at home here. It was time to send them packing back to the world of which they came. Group of creatures floating beside the fish monger's usual booth, the young soldier struck the nonexistent iron while it was hot.

Flames removing the first group of enemies out of the picture after twenty slashes of his flames, the hyena turned his attention towards the waters. Multiple icy rocks freezing the oceans, the soldier blinked. The obstacles, they were certainly making themselves at home. Enemies bustling around the area, the chimera dashed off towards the next targets.

Blade in front of him, the early adult threw the flames upon the icy air. Creatures from elsewhere torched, roasted, fried, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Enemies making themselves at home in every boat they could get their handless bodies on, the early adult sped off towards one of the wooden vessels.

Creatures baked into the next defeat pie, the early adult dashed off towards the next boat off towards the corner. Enemies looking ready to bring themselves to their shiny rock distraction, the hyena kept the momentum going. Alien race lowering its population with every defeat, the fiery onslaught of terror continued to lend its hands.

Dashing from boat to boat, the army had been reduced to nothing but cores as the minutes marched about. Rubbing his palms against each other as if brushing off crumbs, the hyena looked around the area. The extraterrestrials, had he taken care of all of them? Surely, the army was now gone.

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part.

Ground rumbling underneath him, a sight beyond words cracked a layer of glass underneath the hyena's feet. Sea of icy rocks floating upon the air as if having a will of their own, the solider could not believe his eyes as a spectacle played out before him. Rock sea converting themselves into one, bewilderment nibbled on the chimera's uniform.

Rock riding the frozen wind, the early adult made a run for it. The boulder, where in the world was it going? Object floating past the ice bed above it, the hyena slid upon the thin sheet beneath him. But, as the journey was about to reach its end, the final nail in the coffin sung to the skies above.

Orb creature glowing, the soldier placed his hands underneath his glasses. Where had such blinding light come from? But, as he removed his palms from his eyes, the soldier could feel his heart begin to sink in his chest. Rock in front of him surrounded with the alien particles, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. The mother rock base and their faceless child were one now? He needed to separate the child from the source immediately.

But, such had proven difficult in a matter of moments. Rock in front of him blasting mini boulders around itself, the early adult jumped from the right to left. But, as the rocky storm of doom continued, slip ups took the stage. Projectiles taking his hips for a ride, the hyena let out a scream. Who gave the mother rock so much power? Two was better than one indeed.

Rock versus dodges continuing for minutes on end, the hyena took a deep breath. The battle was just beginning. He needed to gain the upper hand before it was too late. Switching the position of his legs, the early adult placed the blade in front of him. The rocks, if they were about to come his way, he needed to deflect them immediately.

Projectiles ready to sing the song of defeat, the early adult jumped eight steps back. Minerals sent back whence they came, the soldier kept the momentum going. But, as the battle dragged onward for minutes on end, wind from afar joined the party. Keeping up with the rockians, the sediments and mysterious wind from afar shook hands.

Boulder soon cracking after thirty strikes, the early adult turned his attention towards the left. Aega off in the corner with an orb floating above her, the hyena blinked. Had she been alone? Where had Loba gone? But, he supposed such was no business of his. Solo jackal looking ready to say something from afar, the soldier turned towards her.

"You're still here? If I were you, I'd leave towards the city," Aega said at the top of her lungs. "Loba told me that some place known as Qingxu Pool is loaded with these monsters." She then paused for a moment. "You know your way around Liyue, don't you? I'd get going."

Knowing Aega was right, the hyena nodded. Returning himself to the wharf, and off towards the ministry of civil affairs, the early adult could not help but wonder. The orb aliens, just how far had they gotten around Liyue? He knew, no matter where they were, they had to be brought to their demise, without question.

Returning towards the food district, the early adult traversed the long wooden bridge in front of him. Standing near the frozen pool with a rock inside it, the hyena gazed at the submerged mineral. Could the aliens remove it from its home? He supposed he would need to be on high alert if such were the case.

But, as the soldier had begun to walk through Mt. Tianheng's southern path, the aliens were an extraterrestrial foot. Creatures circling themselves around a boulder not frozen by ice, the early adult let out a sigh. These monsters sure enjoyed their home bases. Fire of horrors burning and ready, the blade had taken the offensive.

Monsters slain in a bed of flames, the hyena kept running. But, the orb creatures had begun to pile up as the road in front of him towards the west continued. But, the defeats kept going as the journey marched onward. Enemies on the pathway near houses of unknown ownership, the battles kept going.

Keeping the monsters out as the early adult reached a small cave, the hyena huffed a heavy breath. Just how many orb creatures were out there? Surely, their numbers had to have been lesser by now. Flames doing their duty, the early adult kept running. Qingxu pool was nearing, he had to pick up the pace.

Dashing across a frozen lake, the soldier turned his heelless shoes off towards a winding path. Many alien casualties erased from the mortal world as he kept going, the soldier prepared himself. Any moment now, and another ice rock mother base would be upon him.

Qingxu Pool now below him, the early adult's legs and the air soon met. Windglider deployed, the ruins from time forgotten were now upon him. But, as he approached the waters, a new horror was now unlocked. Robotic fish with razor sharp teeth looking ready to rip him apart like a wooden boat, the hyena flinched.

Multiple robotic fish nibbling on an ice rock in the center of the water, the early adult placed his hand on his chin as he studied the aquatic creatures. Mineral broken apart in chunks, the hyena let out a gulp. Was he in the presence of piranhas? If such were the case, he needed to proceed with caution.

Inorganic fish leaping out of the water one after another, the early adult prepared for action. Surely, it wouldn't be too difficult to destroy them. But, such was a misconception of the ages. Metallic teeth gnawing into him like he was an late afternoon snack, the hyena winced.

Group of five fishy fiends chompers soon joining the party as well, metal clamped down upon the hyena's wrists. Letting out a scream, the early adult shook his arms with a fervor. But, as he had done so, the robotic monstrous enemies crunched harder. School of fish leaping towards him on repeat, the dice had rolled a twelve in the vertebrae's favor.

Robotic sea life looking ready to turn him into dust, the early adult shook his arms harder. The monsters, if they kept on going, he would be full of holes in no time. Shaking harder with every second, the fangs kept their grip. But, the soldier would not falter. These monsters, he had to shake them off.

Enemies teeth losing their grip after thirty minutes of struggling, the early adult lunged the creatures towards their home base one after another. Sparks flying, the early adult brushed his hands together. Another set of extraterrestrials had been taken out of the equation. But, such had not been the end of the problems around the pool.

Icy rocks not vanishing, the hyena rose an eyebrow. The frozen mineral, why was it not disappearing? Had destroying the enemies not been enough? Observing the area around him for the moment, the soldier had come across a peculiar red object upon a podium. Tapping the object, wooden plants and circular bits came out of nowhere.

Banner across the cloudy sky informing him to arrange the objects into the shape of a scale, more groups of robotic piranhas leaped beside the ice rock in the corner. Creatures munching on some rocky goodness, the hyena turned his attention towards the wood pieces below him. Would doing as the words instructed defeat the rest of the monsters once and for all?

Studying the long plank in front of him, the early adult laid it straight. But, as he placed the first part of the puzzle, the soldier wondered. The scale, did it have to be in the shape of the symbol of the nation? He supposed such had to have been the case. Turning two smaller planks to form an open right angle, the chimera stared at the stones below him. The symbol of Geo, how was he supposed to make such out of planks and minerals?

Eventually forming the circling shape by breaking wood pieces apart, the soldier had begun to make the scale's plates. Boulders placed underneath the wood, and bottom of the judgement tool of planks soon created, the hyena folded his teeth gnashed hands together. Surely, the scale was finished.

Wood soon glowing a bright orange light, the sound of a loud crack overtook the area. Boulder soon no more, and piranhas short circuiting like a fireworks show, the hyena wiped sweat off his brow. Was this what it felt like to be an adventurer? He knew such might not have been the case, but it felt like it had been, at the moment.

Knowing his work was far from over, the soldier had begun to head north. But, as the chimera had reached Lingju Pass, peculiarities stuck out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls. Dark blue door seating itself in the middle of the slightly chilled lake, the early adult tilted his head towards the sky. Where had this portal come from? Whatever it was, he had to avoid it at all costs.

But, such was an impossibility. Feeling a force of wind push him towards the door, the hyena grit his teeth. Barbatos, was he punishing him for being forced out of his home and pledging loyalty to another god for survival? Door coming closer as the wind brushed him towards the portal, the early adult accepted his fate.

Blinding light soon engulfing him, the chimera closed his eyes. But upon opening them, a peculiar world awaited him. Wide dungeon with vined walls everywhere, the early adult blinked. Had he reached a world beyond Teyvat? He needed to find an exit at all costs. Birds chirping across the way, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint.

Orb alien monsters upon the pathway, the early adult's flaming blade took the stage. Creatures dissipating themselves back into nothing but a ball as the battles continued, the first of many corridors had been conquered in twenty minutes. But as a rocky door opened, the journey halted itself, for a moment.

Odd red device in the center of the next dungeon room, a sea of light orange orbs filled the room to the brim. Instructions on the ceiling stating to collect the Geo particles in sixty seconds, the early adult let out a scream. He was being timed for the challenge? He needed to get going right away.

Dashing towards the colorful balls of light, the objects had begun to vanish one after another. But, as the hyena kept going, rings soon appeared across the higher levels of the corridor. Upstream appearing towards the bottom of a ramp, the early adult jumped up as his windglider was soon behind him.

Strange particles obtained as the windy rings were passed through, the early adult kept running. Final set of energy obtained, the red device deactivated itself. Next door opening itself, the soldier had resumed running. Orb creatures defeated along the way and other puzzles conquered, one final obstacle awaited the early adult in one last room.

Final gigantic orb monster awaiting him in the last corridor, the early adult's flamethrower greatsword and his offenses were ready. But, as the fight kept on going, the odds had been in the enemy's favor. Creature from the world beyond slinking on the dungeon grounds, the flames weakened.

Core releasing dark energy, the hyena's flames had been decimated in a matter of moments. Elements not doing as expected, the chimera folded up his sleeves. He supposed it was best to fight with his blade solo. Swiping the claymore forward, the fight kept changing speeds.

Fight switching sides as everything kept going, the hyena let out a battle cry. The alien sphere, it had to be removed from this peculiar space or he would be trapped here for all of eternity, guaranteed. Continuing to strike for minutes on end, a shield surrounded the opposing force.

Letting the flames of terror take the lead, slow work was soon made of the shield. Creature looking weak after twenty-five strikes, the final blow was upon the soldier. Creature soon crumbling into dust, the exit door released itself from the ashes. But, as he returned to Teyvat, the ground was the sky, the sky was the ground.

Clouds on the floor, the early adult held the urge to click his tongue. Had he returned to the continent in an upside down position? Absolutely ridiculous. Attempting flip himself towards the correct position, nothing fixed itself. Pesky orb monsters floating around as everything had done a complete one-eighty, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky below him. Was this the extraterrestrials doing? He needed to put an end to this.

Orb creatures surrounding him as though they were trying to create an orbit, the soldier attempted with all his might to fight the enemies. But, as he attempted to do so, blood rushed to the hyena's head. Falling backwards onto the ground, the stumbles continued.

Attempting with any might that remained to brave the the reversed world, the early adult attempted to switch the ties to the best of his ability. But, such had proven difficult as the minutes raged onward. Creatures gaining the nonexistent upper hand, nothing moved. Struggle never ceasing, the dice rolled another twelve in the enemy's favor.

Eventually becoming victorious as the minutes dissolved into hours, all had soon ended well as the attempts piled up one after another. Lingju Pass reversing back to normal, the soldier headed back towards Qingxu Pool. Surely, nothing else had been flipped upside down. But as the ruins across the water approached, the water was the sky, the sky was the ground.

But, as the hyena approached the small bed of water, a riffing beat took the stage. Turning his attention towards the noise, the early adult scratched the side of his head. Young, spiky pigtailed woman with a red streak, golden eyes, short brown outfit with red roped tassels and black opened toed shoes fighting with a diamond shaped guitar with a blade like object attached to the end of it, the young soldier shook his head. How was a guitar supposed to defeat enemies?

Guitarist's instrument not able to put an edge as more robotic piranhas had come her way, the enemy's teeth nibbled on the strings of her battle axe. Young lady looking ready to scream, the early adult closed his eyes. Was she struggling? He had to do his utmost to help turn the battle around.

"Not the guitar!" the guitarist shouted.

Knowing things were beginning to look doomed from the start, the hyena added himself to the offensive. Deflecting the fanged fish as best he could, the tables inverted themselves onto the favor of the party being challenged. But, such advantage had soon been short lived.

Mechanical fish swimming on the upside down air in a speedy flurry, a light of darkness overtook the topsy turvy area. As the spectacle soon ended, the school had become one large entity like a wishy-washy white fish in another universe. Creature's metallic teeth clamping together, a shockwave took the upside down streets.

Monsters slapping down into the lake above them, the soldier switched the position of his legs. The large mechanical fishes fused themselves into one? He needed to bring them down to scrap metal, right this instant. Flaming blade of terrors out in front of him, the soldier was ready.

Guitarist joining him for the ride, difficulties kept arising as the fight kept going. Mechanical monster looking ready to swallow him whole, the early adult tried with all his might to fight against the creature of combined forces. Young lady next to him bringing out a debate club, the dual claymore swings kept their momentum going.

Favors swapping demands after twenty combined strikes a piece, the early adult swore he could hear a ding ping off in the distance. Guitarist taking out her instrument once more, the young woman shouted time to rock at the top of her lungs. Riffs of heat overtaking her for a brief moment, the hyena closed his eyes.

World around him reversing back towards the normal orientation, the sound of a cracking boulder brought the chimera back to reality. The battle, was it over? Guitarist soon looking his way, the early adult made eye contact. Was there something she had to say? It was best to listen, if so.

"I enjoyed shredding with ya, partner," the guitarist said.

Young lady soon leaving, the early adult blinked. Air around him warming up a smidgeon, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Was that the end of the battles? He supposed it was time to return to Liyue Harbor, if so. Heading back upon the eastern path of which he came, the journey had begun.

As the soldier walked through the plains, the hyena stared at the scenery around him. The orb and fish robots, why did they enjoy the icy rocks so much? He could not help but feel something inside their bodies made them attracted to such sediments. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, everything had been determined by a set of ones and zeroes, and such alignment of numbers determined the creature's behavioral patterns. But, such fact was unknown to the chimera.

Statues in Mt. Tianheng slowly approaching, the soldier turned his attention towards the monuments. Would future aliens go after the landmarks? If such were the case, he knew he would need to push the creatures away from such, or history in the making would be unmade, in an instant.

Liyue Harbor feeling farther away than normal, the early adult took a long deep breath. Why was the capital city so far off all of the sudden? Had he taken the long route around? But, the soldier kept walking. The bridge would be here soon, for sure. He had to keep going.

City of contracts finally reached after an hour of walking, the early adult let out a deep throated yawn. Battles in a whole day's work was a tiring pursuit to behold. Curving towards the red staircase, the soldier prepared to head for the Northland Bank. But, the Northland Bank soon came to him.

Agent turning his masked face towards the right and left, the early adult let out a gulp. If there was even one ice rock still floating around, he would be in trouble, guaranteed. But, as his subordinate turned around, the hyena swore he could see a smirk stretch from underneath his mask.

"Excellent work today, soldier," the Agent said, smirking. "But, your job is not done yet. Go check yourself into a room in Wangshu Inn and resume operations in the morning."

Informed the mission would be continuing, the hyena headed for the Wangshu Inn. Guili Plains passed through, and inn staircase ascended, the soldier walked towards the inn's boss. Room paid for, the soldier had been guided towards his temporary accommodations for the evening.

Keys handed off to him, the soldier closed the wooden door behind him. Small room with nothing but a bed and dresser drawers, the early adult blinked. Had he secretly returned to Snezhnaya? By, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. Impossible. Such was definitely not the case.

Ready to crawling into the unknown bed, the soldier placed the weaponized hairpins and earrings into a small round cylinder on a bed side table. glasses set aside, as well, and jacket folded up into a square, the soldier placed himself underneath the temporary covers. World of sleep coming for him with a vengeance, one final thought swam through the chimera's fading human brain.

Where could the aliens have possibly from?

***

Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The world of the subconscious was a circling aqua railing system, with only sharp bumps in the road taking over everything. The night before him would only add another layer of bumps, as well.

Before him had been a field of rainbow roses, but as the pink plants given the wrong name glared back at him, the early adult spit dream saliva upon the ground. Why was he seeing flowers in the dream world? Nature and he were sour with one another. Turning up his nose, the early adult turned his attention towards the dark void of nothing towards the other side.

But, as the soldier's blank stares continued, an unusual presence floated towards him with gusto. Two tan skinned, green haired strangers with pointy horns rivalling even those of Parisa, and eyes covered with a strange black bar, with pitch dark cloaks to match their obscured pupils, a chill of nothingness shot down the hyena's spine. He could not help but feel a wave of doom as the strangers approached him.

"So, this is the dream of an Ingne," one of the strangers said. "It's time to spark things up a little!"

Hole forming underneath the soldier, electricity crackled into overdrive. Zapped around like a toy for dream minutes on end, the hyena let out a scream. These people, did they see him like they were some sort of object to play with? Zaps about continuing, movement was impossible.

Group of strangers laughing as their judgement lightning sparked things up more than just a little, the early adult swore his dream joints were ready to cling together into a knot. Zaps throwing him around for a loop, paralysis readied to unleash its demons upon the dream world.

Electricity continuing its rampage for many dream minutes on end, the soldier whiffed a simulated scent of fire. Realizing such, the soldier's knees buckled. The strangers, had they summoned flames, as well? How incredibly terrifying, a world of flames would come for him any second now.

Flames from up above dousing him like a bucket of water, the early adult let out a shout as the strangers up above guffawed enough to bust their guts wide open. Fire surrounding him like it was their sworn duty, the hyena was roasted, toasted, stranger's dinner. Laughter continuing, words had come his way.

"Hahahaha, this Ingne's dreams are full of fire!" one of the strangers laughed. "This is fun!"

Flames dropping down from the hole once more, a sea of fire soon engulfed the hyena. Body on fire as the world around him was heating up, the early adult closed his eyes. As defeat hugged him from behind, one final thought ran circles around the chimera's dream mind as he was about to become a pile of ashes.

Just who were these strangers?

How did they enter his dreams?

***

"My job is far from over.
Yes, another day of vanquishing ice rocks.

Work is never going to reach its end.
Obviously, I know that, as a Fatui, I'm almost always working.
Really, I am used to it at this point,
Knowing Her Majesty, this is just the beginning.

How much more ice rocks do I have to face?
Even I am starting to think this might as well be a
Repetitive, endless stream of monsters and
Enemy rocks aplenty.

I'm starting to think these enemies were manufactured.
Something about them does not feel real to me.

Nothing about this feels natural.
Everything feels created by an opposing force. This is
Very unnerving. I doubt these
Enemies could have come from this world. As I
Remove them, I wonder further.

Did they even
Originate from Fontaine?
No, they could not have.
Everything about this makes little sense. Everything about

This makes less sense as the
Hours crawl on by.
Everything I know is breaking.

And, as I continue fighting,
Less and less is coming to me.
I can't help but wonder. That pesky penguin,
Earl, he said the other day that those creatures were
Not often seen around the
Section of land above the Court of Fontaine.

Ah, what was the name of that place he said...I need to
Remember. Think, think, think.
Elynas. Was that it?

Maybe I am remembering wrong, but
Ultimately, they are certainly not from there. Nor
Liyue. I suspect something.
Though, I could be wrong and overthinking.
I might be incorrect, but
Perhaps, just maybe, someone brought them to
Liyue to cause trouble.
Yes, that has to be
It, I am certain.
Now, as I prepare to clean up mess number two. I need to
Get ready to be on the offensive.

Nothing is ever truly
Over for my forced upon career of the Fatui. But,
While I continue this fight, I need to keep going."

Waking up the next morning, Siorc let out a scream. The dream he had would no leave his partially human mind. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, shouting? He would disturb other inn guests, for sure. He needed to forget the night of terror and get himself ready for the workday at hand.

Agent standing by his inn room's door, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Was it just him, or was there a sense of urgency plastered underneath his subordinate's mask? Surely, he had to have just been imagining things. The Fatui Agent was nothing more than a debt collecting machine with no emotion. Mask soon on him, the early adult gave eye contact.

"More ice rocks appeared overnight," the Agent said. Behind his back, something shimmered. "Take care of the problem soldier." He then slapped a greatsword into his subordinate's hands.

Second flamethrower claymore handed to him, the chimera blinked rapidly as the next words came out from underneath the Agent's mask. Encouraged to fight the enemies roaming about with a two sword style, the early adult cupped his fingers around his right ear. Was he hearing things correctly? Do a two sword style fight? Impossible. Claymores were not the same weight as a broadsword. There was no way he would be able to do such.

Knowing it was best to return to the harbor to catch up with the jackal sisters, the early adult reversed back towards the path he traversed many hours before. But, as the Harbor soon neared, flurries smacked the ground. Seeing such, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it snowing in Liyue? How odd, such never happened in the Nation of Contracts.

But, as the soldier had reached the Harbor, the world of snow had begun to cling onto the tables everywhere. Not a single soul present, Loba and Aega included, the hyena rose an eyebrow. Had he wasted his time coming this way? He supposed such had to have been the case.

Agent soon catching up with him as though he had forgotten to tell him something, a new round of information had come the hyena's way. Told the ice rocks had been spotted to the north and eastern paths and towards the Mondstadt border near Stone Gate, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What did he come all the way back to the Harbor for if the foots of his work were already in the areas he had just passed through? He needed to turn back around right now.

Returning towards the pathway of Guili Plains, the snow had begun to fall harder and faster from the grey skies above. Walking through the same area he had just passed through, a slippery ice patch had appeared underneath the hyena. Arms flailing about a sense of unease flowed through the soldier. A tumble would soon be guaranteed. But, the chimera would not falter.

Spotting an ice rock in the middle of the pathway, the early adult unsheathed the two flaming greatswords of terror from behind him. Orange, green and blue orb creatures emerging from their mother rock ship, the soldier prepared himself? More sphere aliens were amongst him? The time had come to unleash the two sword style the Agent forced upon him.

But, as the hyena attempted to burn the creatures a new one, the weight of the situation lowered the chimera onto his currently human knees. Two claymores was far heavier than one. ice underneath him signing in as player number two, the early adult could feel his balance tap itself out of the ring.

Creatures looking ready to break everything around them, the soldier attempted to regain balance. Closing his eyes for a moment, the early adult chanted an unmagical spell. The claymores were paperweights. They were weightless. Feathers, a sheet of paper, a pea on his dinner plate.

Orb monsters creating shockwaves around him as they hovered around their ice rock, the early adult could feel himself wobble once more. These orb aliens, just what were their powers and capabilities? Could they bend everything into a quiver? He needed to fight back before they fused themselves with their rock mother.

Such attempt was futile once more. Paperweights becoming a ton, the early adult fell onto his possibly human rear. His wrists, had they become as heavy as metal? The claymores were weightless. Why couldn't he get used to the style of two blades? But, he supposed mastering something in the matter of moments was only reserved the blessed and gifted.

Tiny pebbles tossed at him in a barrage like a bullet seed, the early adult's chest had darkened with a slight tint of red. Letting out a growl, adrenaline kicked the hyena around like a game of Temari. How dare these creatures hit his damaged chest. They would pay for such atrocity for adding more onto such area.

Dual blades losing all their weight, the flames blazed into overdrive. Swiping the weapons forward in a fervor, the hyena let out a loud battle cry. These monsters, who did they think they were aiming for such a spot? Creatures set ablaze one after another, his screams continued.

First ice rock cracking down the center, the soldier pressed the button in the center of the weapons once more. Sheathing the blades by his uniform pockets, the hyena wiped the tiny pool of red over his jacket. If any more orb creatures wanted a piece of him in his most fragile area, they would pay with their extraterrestrial lives.

Continuing upon the northern path, Wangshu Inn had swiftly been returned to as if he never left. But, as he stepped towards the boss of the area, a sea of unfortunate news had come the chimera's way. Young generic woman informing him peculiar creatures have made themselves at home on the roof, the hyena ascended the staircase? More aliens were already here? He needed to get on the case right away.

Snow covering the roof with piles of white, the hyena turned his attention towards the enemies. Shadow aliens giving off an array of malevolent energy, the early adult could feel a chill drop down his spine. Had he been in the company of evil spirits? Something wasn't right, for sure.

Stepping onto the roof, a battle had already been out in the open. Yaksha screaming boring, useless as he charged around the area with his wind powers, the soldier's heart dropped at the sight of the mountain demon's body. Deep cuts and bruises decorating the short man's arms everywhere, the hyena threw himself into action.

Yaksha looking ready to tell him to get out of his way, the early adult unsheathed the flaming greatswords of horror from beside him. There was no way he could allow an injured person, human, chimera, demon, yaksha or not fight harder than they needed to. He knew if, he were in the same position, someone would try to stop him. It was best to carry some of the burden for the hurt.

Billowing the flames forward upon the demonic aliens of the shadows, the creatures looked ready to lunge with all their might. But, the early adult stood his ground. The monsters, if they intended to continue their rampage upon the yaksha, they would have to go through him as their first obstacle.

Slashing the burning blades forward, a grunt from behind him let itself out. But, the early adult kept the battle going. The peculiar demonic aliens of the shadows, it was his job to destroy them. Creatures lives thinning as the seconds broke into minutes, the odd shadows of strangely physical properties curved under the sharp pressure.

Final enemy taken out of the equation, the yaksha gave the hyena a sharp look. Arms folded across his waist, the early adult prepared himself for a line of questioning. Any second now, he knew what inquiry would come his way. Why did he interfere? Knowing such was about to grace his eardrums, the early adult placed his hands in front of him.

"Why did you interfere?" the Yaksha asked, grunting.

Already knowing such question would be bestowed upon him, the early adult placed his hands in front of him. Signing the words that he was injured, the hyena gave the mountain demon a stern look. But, his wordless language was met with an immediate brush off.

"This is nothing," the Yaksha responded, arms crossed around his waist. "I can conquer these evil demons alone."

Knowing the mountain demon would not budge on this statement, the early adult sighed. He supposed he could not be critical of other people's worth ethnic. He would work with injuries as well, no matter what. He knew if he did not work, Her Majesty would kill him. Judging others of their own battles would be hypocritical of him, for certain.

Snow blowing further as the chimera descended back towards the lower floors of the inn, a group of plants he did not wish to see haunted the soldier like a ghost on Wuwang Hill. Pink plants in the bushing laughing at him, the punishment from many months prior flashed through the early adult's brain like a movie in Fontaine.

Letting out a scream as the dagger scene replayed itself twice more, tears streamed down the chimera's face. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he doing, letting himself get bothered by the past? He has to keep working. He should not let events from long ago bother him.

Getting it together, the soldier prepared to walk towards the eastern path. He supposed, for now, heading to Mingyun Village would be in his best interest. Finding himself upon a diverging pathway, the hyena took a deep breath. The snow, would it soon get worse as he continued heading up north? He hoped such would not be the case.

But, upon reaching the area, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Orb aliens floating towards disheveled and unfinished buildings, bewilderment ate the young soldier up like a plate of Almond Tofu. The settlement presented before him, what could have possibly happened here? But, such thoughts were cut short as the monsters had become one with the wood around them.

Ready to remove the creatures from within their new wooden world, the early adult rolled up his sleeves. But, preparedness died as quickly as it had arrived. Land glowing around him, new obstacles soon added themselves to the abandoned village before him. Symbols placed upon the ground, instructions from the underworld soon laughed at him.

Banner in the sky instructing him to burn the symbols on the ground, the early adult could feel his soul about to remove itself from his body. He had to wield the power of fire once more? But, he knew he had to. Tuning out the flames around him as the symbols lit up, the next order of business was upon him.

Torches spawning around the area as if they were dragged in by a person from the world on the outside, the chimera jumped eight steps back. Where did the new obstacles come from? They definitely were not here a second ago, for sure. Every pit soon lit up, the final obstacle remained.

Monuments with Pyro symbols raising their elemental objects in a specific pattern, the soldier tilted his head. He was being tested to a game of memory? Whoever had placed these here, they had made a mistake. Failing the puzzle multiple times, the hyena studied the totems once more. Right, he had to light them up in a specific order. He had to focus.

Every single monument eventually lit up in the proper order, the wood expelled the monsters from their clutches. Creatures disintegrating shortly after such expulsion, the soldier had begun to head north. Stone Gate, he had to continue onward towards the border of Mondstadt. But, as he headed towards Sal Terrae, familiar faces presented themselves around an underground salt tunnel.

Loba and Aega hard at work, the soldier swore he could see jackal ears wiggling from the edge of the cave. One of the two jackal sisters sticking her head out, the soldier took a long deep breath. Was he about to be sent away? He supposed if they already had the area covered, he should continue onward towards the Stone Gate.

"Since you came this way, go over to that cave on the other side and grab some jadeite," Aega said. "These monsters are weak to Geo objects."

Knowing Loba and Aega had their hands full, the hyena nodded. Walking upon the pathway around the area, an abandoned boat remained where he had last spotted it the last time he had come to Sal Terrae. Tossing himself into the wooden vessel, the early adult cruised the vehicle upon the cold waters in front of him.

Reaching the cave, the soldier dropped himself downward. Recalling where the jadeite deposits were from his last visit, the hyena stormed off towards the direction in his memory. Multiple shimmering blue rocks removed from their mineral deposits, the chimera broke out into a sweat. If he were to touch the jade for too long, it would harm him for sure. But, he knew he did not have time to worry about such. He had to return towards the underground salt cave.

Boating back towards the surface, the early adult's hands and the jadeite intertwined themselves with one another. Rocks placed overhead, the hyena tossed the minerals like he had thrown a curveball. One rock after another thrown upon the monsters from afar, the creatures were stoned into nothingness.

But, a new challenger had soon arisen.

Icy air blowing with a fervor, a gigantic bony wolf creature released itself from the salt hole down below. Loba and Aega releasing themselves from their temporary salt imprisonment, as well, the creature let out a deep roar. Taking control of the snow around it, the hyena backed seven steps away. This creature could manipulate the weather? He was about to meet his match.

Loba and Aega readying themselves for action, the soldier studied the jackal chimera's fighting prowess, for a moment. Loba stepping up to the plate first, a purple book entailing the thrilling tales of a dragon slayer floated upon the air. Icy spells launching themselves upon the enemy, both the monster and the heroine squared off with one another.

Emerald colored orb floating underneath Aega's right hand, various windy spells released themselves from the catalyst beneath her. Small upstream appearing as her attacks kept going, the young woman of heavy sterness leaped upward upon the gale. Ears and tail shrouded in wind as she continued, the spells continued.

Loba once again adding her ice to the mix, the soldier swore he could hear scream Dr. Jackal and Ms. Hyde, but the hyena shrugged such off. He supposed such had been her battle cry. Wolf looking weaker than before, the hyena closed his eyes for a moment as the flaming greatswords combusted into overdrive.

Weaponized Pyro, Anemo and Cryo combining itself into a swirl, four more blows had been dealt to the wolf monster of bony composure. Creature throwing itself back into a portal whence it came, the sound of a boulder cracking in the salt cave below took the area by storm. But, as he gazed at the crevices beneath, words had come his way.

"Go on ahead, honey, we'll keep dealing with everything over here," Loba said, words soft. "Your subordinate told us to take care of The Chasm and Chenyu Vale, so we might not cross paths after this." A warm smile soon appeared on her face. "Take care of yourself, alright?"

Nodding, the early adult headed upon the northern path. Loba and Aega had to head to The Chasm, where in all of Teyvat could that area have possibly been? But, there was no time to question such things, he needed to continue onward. Figuring wherever it was it was beyond his reach, the young soldier pushed such thoughts away. He needed to focus on his side of the situation.

Reaching Dihua Marsh after an hour of slippery walking, the hyena's knees buckled at the sight before him. Waterways frozen over twice as hard as the snow fell faster, the soldier gazed at the orb monsters across the way. Creatures circling around a group of ducks, the chimera turned his attention towards the ice rock in the corner.

Layer of ice much thicker than before, the early adult could feel a sour taste in his mouth. But, as his attention had been applied elsewhere, a spectacle unfolded before his mismatched eyes. Spherical aliens continuing their circle around the flock, the avian creatures and aliens soon became one.

Ducks laying down the law, the early adult grit his teeth. He had to fight the water birds of the ponds? If the young boy from Mondstadt knew about such, judgement day would come for him, for sure. But, he knew the choice was not his. The aliens had to be removed from the animal's bodies pronto.

Defeat coming for the duckified aliens after thirty strikes, guilt ate the hyena alive. The ducks of the pond, would they be alright? He knew it was possible they had just lost their lives to such rampage blown to them. If such were the case, an apology was in order for the entire bird race.

Readying himself to head for Stone Gate, the chimera stared off into space. The Nation of Freedom, could some of the alien monsters have escaped beyond the border? If such were the case, he knew he would have to cross between the two nations to deal with the problem at hand.

But, as the early adult reached the pathway nearing the Stone Gate, a slippery walkway was in front of the soldier. Heelless shoes sliding upon the unevenly icy ground, the hyena swore that at any given moment, he would see stars. Attempting to regain balance for minutes on end, the early adult kept walking.

Nothing but an array of puzzles awaiting him upon the gate of stone, the early adult blinked of bewilderment at the first objective. Reach the area within the time limit? Another difficult challenge would be upon him. Running upon the slippery wooden walkway as the seconds ticked away, the destination was soon reached.

Second objective soon upon him to sabotage a Slime Balloon, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint as the wooden basket of transport rode the icy wind. Was it just him, or did the gelatinous creature have some sort of dark aura surrounding it? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. There was no time. He had to get rid of the obstacle.

Balloon demolished after ten minutes of attempts, the final mission had been tossed upon the soldier. Informed he would have to destroy the Hilichurl towers, a spark popped off in the chimera's fading human brain. The Hilichurl population, it had to dwindle. Their numbers, they had to go down. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. Where did such thought come from? He needed to calm down.

Towers soon destroyed, the soldier walked off towards the border to Mondstadt, but such was as far as he could reach. Entire army of boulders blocking every pathway, the the early adult sighed. If the rock obstacles remained intact, it was best to walk towards the next area, for the time being.

Heading back towards the westward path, the early adult headed for Bishui Plain. But, the panda chimera's former place of rest was soon replaced with a winter horrorfest. Spherical aliens floating around every corner, the young soldier let the flaming swords of terror take the lead.

Enemies all but taken care of, the early adult headed towards the north. Wuwang Hill getting closer with every given step, the soldier swore the ghastly area was far colder than the rest, but the chimera shook his head. He was imagining such, surely. There was no way that was the case.

Reaching the grassy lower levels of the haunted hillside, familiar faces stuck out amongst the crowd. Funeral Parlor Director and blue haired exorcist looking ready to work together to banish spirits, the chimera prepared himself to exit the area. These two had to have all their bases covered, for sure. But, the duo of the end of times was not alone.

Rat and bobcat chimera in the area, as well, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Were his eyes playing tricks on him, or were Krysí and Ryś standing in Wuwang Hill? Surely, he had to have been mistaken. The alien monsters, maybe they had to transform into others like a pink blob with dot eyes and a goofy smile. Girl soon looking at him, the soldier prepared himself for the possible inevitable.

Seeing Siorc walk by, Krysí's tail had coiled up behind her. Had Her Majesty sent him on this mission involving the strange monsters around Liyue, as well? If such were the case, why hadn't she informed Ryś and she about it? But, she knew if she brought such into question, she would be breaking that apparent sworn Fatui rule to never question Her Majesty's thought processes.

Lowering her head a smidgeon, something of particular note stuck out to her. Snezhnayan Dendro Vision seated on Siorc's belt, Krysí placed her tiny fingers on her chin. Had he received a Vision since their one and only encounter with him? Perhaps, such was the answer that hid itself in plain sight.

Watching Siorcy bring himself to Wuwang Hill, Ryś turned her attention towards him. When was the last time she had seen this guy? But, her memory laid barren. Maybe Krysí could help her remember later. Staring at his belt in tandem with her battle partner in crime, a Dendro Vision gleamed. Siorc had gained a vision? Cool.

"Hi again, Siorcy!" Ryś greeted. "You have a Vision now? Cool, meow! Dendro suits you!"

"Were you sent here to fight the monster outbreak from Fontaine?" Krysí asked. "It seems that funeral parlor lady and exorcist have this area covered."

But, such could not be further from the truth, Funeral Parlor Director's ghost pal losing the fight, and exorcist's spirit blades unable to do much of anything, sweat poured down the chimera's back. Did these two really have the area covered? He could not help feel the opposite was the actual case.

Knowing that the apparent creatures from Fontaine had to be vanquished, the soldier unsheathed the claymores from beside him. Letting the flames take the lead, the ghostly alien monsters jumped back as if they had stolen the technique of dodging straight from under him.

Unable to strike while the blades were hot, the hyena let out a deep huff. Who taught these creatures how to dodge? Such was quite the annoyance to behold. Exorcist, funeral parlor, Krysí and Ryś firing attacks one after another as well, everything remained one sided for minutes on end.

Opening eventually created as the claymore polearm onslaught kept paving the way, Triple triad flames of doom doused the enemy after ten attempts. Defeat almost guaranteed, the monster faded into the ether. But, as it had exited, the snows whipped themselves up into a blizzard. Icy air kicking it up, a shout overtook the area.

"We have to head for the Oceanid's battleground, meow!" Ryś exclaimed. "Run!" But, a comical set of words had been returned in kind.

"Ooh, a new client?" the Funeral Parlor Director asked, hands dancing like a ghost.

"Huh, a new client?" Ryś asked, confused. "We're the only ones here, Miss -- ---, meow!"

Krysí bellowing a whisper into Ryś' cat ears, a realization had soon washed over the bobcat chimera. Ryś soon saying yes, a new client awaited by the oceanid's lair, the soldier could feel his head spin. Was he about to witness a coffin sale live? How morbid. Everyone running ahead, the hyena caught up as fast as possible.

Orb aliens fusing themselves with the folklore water creature, the early adult could feel sweat pour down his back. Had the creature proclaimed an ocean just turn itself into an ice creature? What a sudden shift in development, for sure. But, the time to think was over, it was time to battle.

But, the battle was over as quickly as it began. Funeral Parlor Director and bobcat chimera's flames taking out the monster before he could even blink, ice rocks shattered into bitty pieces of nothing faster than he could blink. Spherical monster removed from the equation shortly after, a round of information the soldier could barely process had come his way.

"There is some highly evil activity in Yaoguang Shoal currently that even my yang energy cannot dispel," the exorcist said as if talking to himself out loud.

Young exorcist soon licking his popsicle, the hyena's heart turned to stone. The beach, there were some aliens there, as well? He had to head there right away. Yinlong, if he were in trouble, he would never forgive himself if he were to get hurt. Running as if his life depended on it, the early adult sped of as if a turbo button had been added to his shoes.

Continuing to speed off down through the cold marsh, the early adult kept running. The panda chimera, if there was really evil activity going on there, they were certainly in trouble. He had to get to his side immediately. Wangshu Inn and eastern pathway taken, the shoal was getting closer with every accelerated step forward.

But, as he reached the beaches of Liyue, the water had been frozen solid. Everything except the sand hard as a rock, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. The panda chimera had he already been attacked by the aliens in the area? He needed to run to their side, right this instant.

Yínlóng running around the beach as if noting was happening, a sense of panic made the freezing temperature raise a few degrees celsius. Panda stopping his exercise regimen as they spotted a peculiar door, the early adult was off to the races. No, there had already been a portal here. He had to stop the panda from being sucked in.

But, as he had gotten closer, an unavoidable forced pulled him towards the dark blue doorway. Unable to break loose from the force's crushing grip, an invisible white flagged waved upon the battlefield. He was in the next world's clutches now, there was no escape.

Blinding light engulfing him for a split second, a frozen forest awaited the hyena. World of nothing but icy trees and orb monsters galore, the soldier blinked. Where was he? He was definitely not in Teyvat anymore. Knowing he had to get out and find the exit as soon as possible, the soldier stepped forward.

But, as the early adult made his first steps towards freedom, two hooded figures with nothing but pure black cloaks and obscured faces with the facial expressions oddly obscured by black lines, the hyena had come to wonder. Was someone messing with him? Someone's eyes and mouth being covered by a black bar, such was definitely not a natural occurrence. Hooded figures knees clicking at the sight of him, shouts had come his way.

"What's a Fatuus doing here?!" one of the strangers asked. "Out, out, get out!" But, the other person within the obscured peanut gallery spoke.

"The guy's already here!" the other hooded figure shouted. "You don't care, just go on ahead. There's more to do!"

Odd people vanishing as they said such, the early adult blinked. Did that hooded stranger just refer to themselves as a second person rather than referring to themselves as the first person? How incredibly confusing. This person was not some reader love interest of some romance story involving illicit acts and the person viewing it.

Knowing he had to find the exit door, the soldier had begun walking through the frozen wonderland. Orb monsters entwining themselves with the trees, the hyena's flaming blade and the enemies shook hands with one another. Army removed with every step, everything continued.

Vanquishing multiple enemies on the pathway as the end of the forest was about to near, a challenge broke loose upon the walkways. Banner telling him to defeat all the enemies within five minutes, the timer had begun to tick down faster with every second. Monsters removed one after another, only three minutes soon remained.

Wrapping up the rest of the fight before him with a sloppy finisher as two minutes further ticked down, the early adult sped up the cleanup. Only one minute remained, he had to put an end to this before the number hit zero. Final orb enemy a difficulty amongst the crowd, only twenty seconds remained.

Final spherical enemy gone as the clocked ticked down to the last five seconds an exit door came out of the woodworks. Removing himself from the world of the unknown, the icy beaches were soon upon the soldier once more. But, as the door disappeared worried eyes fell on him.

"Hey, are you okay?" Yínlóng asked. "You were pulled through that mysterious door."

Hearing Yinlong's question, the early adult blinked. Should such an inquiry be asked right now? The panda, he was in far more danger than he was in. Him being alright was far less of a pressing matter, at the moment. He knew he needed to tell him that his worries were unfounded.

"I am fine, sir," the hyena responded, voice barely audible.

"Are you sure?" Yínlóng asked, words filled with worry. "My cousin is an herbalist. If you're hurt anywhere, I could take you to him."

But, the soldier shook his head. Giving the panda a look of reassurance, the hyena bid them a temporary farewell. Although, as the beach grew further away, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera. Yinlong's family, what could they have been like? Were they also low energy pandas? But, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. He was giving far too low regard on such subject. Not every panda was lazy.

Returning to the Harbor after two hours of walking, the Agent soon headed towards the soldier. Soon informed he was dismissed for today, but his job was not yet over, the early adult headed for Wangshu Inn for the second time of the day. Soon returning to his temporary room, the chimera slumped into the hotel bed. World of sleep about to take him away, one final question poked the active shark groove in his brain.

The hooded strangers, were they the culprits?

***

"Who are they? Those
Hooded strangers, just who?
Or rather, what are they?

Are they even
Real? Or am I imagining them?
Everything is blurring.

Yet, I need to ask again.
Or rather, rephrase. And
Utter the question over and over.

Who are they? The
Hooded strangers? Are you real,
Or fantastical being, imaginary?

Who are they? The
Hooded strangers? Are you villains,
Or just aliens? Otherworldly?

Who are they? The
Hooded strangers? Are they really here,
Or did my unstable brain invent them? Fantasy?

Who are they? The
Hooded strangers. Are they real?
Or just make believe? I'm starting to think it's the latter, truly."

Waking up the next morning, an immediate lead had been provided to the soldier. Agent informing him the ice rocks had formed in the mountain ranges, the early adult let out a gulp. If the icy boulders had made their ways around the highest peaks, the Nation of Contracts would be frozen over, for sure.

Agent not giving him a third greatsword, the hyena rolled his eyes to the ceiling. He wasn't suggesting he partake in the three sword style? How incredibly kind and thoughtful of the masked Agent to not do so. What a wonderful god's blessing upon this world. Clearing his throat as his subordinate left, the chimera pinched his wrist. Maybe such thoughts were a step too far into the deadpan category.

Frying pans saved from their death as he exited the inn, the early adult headed upon the southern path. Guili Plains passed through for what felt like the fifth time in three days, a wave of dejavu flowed through the chimera. Had he fallen back into a time loop? The soldier knew such had not been the case, but he felt like it had to have been, at the moment.

Combing his way back through Liyue Harbor, the western pathway around Mt. Tianheng had soon been reached. Qingxu Pool stepped around, nothing but the cold air had been out of the ordinary for morning hours on end. But, as he reached Lingju Pass, the returning champion revealed itself.

Ice rocks everywhere and monsters orbs galore, the soldier fired up the blazing flamethrower claymores of terror. Multiple strikes dealt one after another, the hyena allowed the finishing blows remove the rest of the enemies out of the equation. But, such proved to not be the case in a matter of moments.

Extraterrestrials heading off towards Tianqiu Valley, the soldier sped off towards the creatures. But, as he had gotten closer, hostilities had been aimed towards him from the faceless orbs. Knowing he had to vanquish them at all costs, the fight had begun. But, the difficulties had only doubled in a matter of seconds.

Monsters combining themselves into one huge orb monsters, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. The aliens from Fontaine, how were they able to absorb their own kind into them to become one? They did not behave that way when he had been there four days prior, for sure.

Attempting with all his might to vanquish the new enemy, no damage had been dealt to the creatures upon the pathway. Orb creature floating off towards the westward path, the eastern slopes, the hyena sped up his dashing speed. He needed to catch up with the monster right now.

But, as Cuijue Slope approached, an intense winter wind took the land over as if a second Snezhnaya had been born. Had he been transported back to the permafrost north? But, the hyena pushed such thought off the cliff. No, he had definitely not been sent back, guaranteed. He needed to defeat the snowballing orb alien as soon as possible before the creature ballooned.

Finding himself on top of a plate filled with pressure as the spherical creature locked itself into a cage, a message had been given to the hyena. Reach the destination within the time limit appearing in the icy sky above, the chimera had begun running. More trials and tribulations were upon him? When would such end?

Reaching the end after forty-five seconds, the next challenge had been upon the chimera. Told to defeat all enemies, the early adult's blades and the monsters shook hands with each other. Creatures dissolving into water like the apparent mysterious girl case in Fontaine, a layer off the alien's shield dissipated itself. Creature rolling off towards the bridge in the corner, the early adult put his left foot forward.

Jueyun Karst in front of him an icy world of many slippery walkways, the soldier had to double check the area. Was he really in Liyue? Only the mountains in Dragonspine had this much snow. His proxy map, was it broken and secretly teleporting him elsewhere?

Pushing such thought onto the ice in front of him, the early adult tread carefully. That was impossible. He was still in Liyue, for sure. But, as the hyena walked upon the first bridge in the area, the world around him felt off. Was it just his imagination, or had the space around him felt distorted?

Reaching the end of the bridge, Abyss Mages with nothing but bony bodies awaited him. Seeing such as the spherical orb creature kept rolling across the mountain, the hyena snapped his fingers. What in the world was happening? Did the alien eat the mage's flesh?

Creatures put out of their misery after thirty strikes with his flaming claymores of terror, the early adult dashed off through Qingyun Peak. Icy trails tracking behind it as though it had wooden wheels accompanied by rubber, the chimera kept the chase going. Freezing temperatures around him kicking in as the creature rolled off towards Nantianmen, the soldier's legs picked up the speed.

Nothing of especial note happening within the quieter mountainous area, the mountain ranges soon awaited the soldier. Readying himself to climb upward as the extraterrestrial creature floated upward towards the higher areas of Mt. Hulao, the chimera hopped upon the rocky cliffs. But, such ascent upward had an array of challenges.

As the soldier had begun to climb upward, a sense of disarray flowed through the chimera. Was he simply imagining it, or had the physics within the area been off? He could not help but feel that, at any given moment, the sky would once again be the ground. Preparing himself for the possible reversal, the hyena kept climbing.

Reaching a high altitude point with Mt. Hulao, the soldier took a long deep breath, but as he had done so, the early adult sputtered a cough. Was the air thinner here? He needed to take care of the problem right away before oxygen was removed from right above him. Ready to end the orb creature, the early adult's dual blades were ready.

Such battle never came. Mysterious force pushing him towards the edge of the cliffsides, A set of unknown hands had been on the chimera's backside. Heelless shoes teetering off the ledge as the palms shoved, the chimera's eyes opened wide. His windglider was not popping out. If he were to fall to the ground from such a high altitude, his life would be over in an instant.

Accepting the possibility of his life ceasing to be as the sharp fall downward continued, the chimera closed his eyes. But, as his back were about to hit the ground, hands were soon on his small body. Eyes shooting open, the soldier turned his head towards his savior in the trying times of forced winter.

Slightly tall person with otter hip pockets, pink adventurer guild's uniform, short grey hair on the slightly cooler side of the color scale, and blue eyes, the early adult blinked. Had he met this chimera before? The face had a recognizing look to it. But, his thoughts were cut short as another person shouted.

"Fèng, what are ya doing? Why are you catchin' that Fatui?" Linggui asked, complaining.

"I couldn't just let him fall from such a high altitude and have him hurt himself, Linggui," Fèng responded. He then turned towards the Fatui. "Are you alright?"

Hearing names that sounded slightly familiar, the chimera nodded. Fèng and Linggui, had he seen these two adventurers somewhere before? But, a small memory had flown back to him. The time loop he thought he had been caught in. They had appeared in one of those moments. But, as his thoughts kept rolling, a barrage of seashells had been slapped upon his face with a paw toss.

"Skedaddle!" Linggui shouted, seashells thrown aplenty. "I bet yer organization is behind them alien sightings! I'll fight all of them Fatui if I gotta!"

"You should probably go," Fèng said, shaking his head. "Or my brother might clobber you, I think."

Knowing a seashell lunge would continue if he stayed any longer, the soldier headed back towards the path he came. Right, maybe it was best to leave the area to the adventurers battle. Orb alien soon seashelled out of existence from afar as he returned towards the karst, sweat poured down the chimera's back. Anger was far too powerful.

As the early adult returned to Jueyun Karst, however, a portal had begun to drag him into its clutches. Pulled through the door, a domain with many spacious corridors awaited the soldier. But, such had not been all. Loba, Aega, Krysí and Ryś here as well, the hyena blinked. Had everyone on the case been pulled in here? If such were the case, the strength in numbers was upon him.

Group of four in front of him already scattered throughout the large maze, the soldier could not help but notice something of particular note. Strange world of canyons in front of him as the corridors thinned, one final show of combinations had begun to bubble into overdrive.

Alien sphere monsters fusing themselves together into a Ruin Guard creature, the soldier's heart skipped two beats. Creature stomping off towards a large hallway, everyone in front of him had already reached the end. Knowing he had to catch up as soon as possible, the hyena sped up his running speed. But, a barely covered up surprise soon added itself to the mix.

Hooded figures standing by the newly created Ruin Guard merged together by the orb aliens, the hyena turned his attention towards the people of no facial expressions. Group of two guffawing up a storm as the seconds paraded onward, Aega in front of him rolled her eyes to the ceiling. Seeing such, the chimera wondered. Was she about to crack a wise one.

"Are you the ones who are causing all the problems?" Aega asked, irritated.

"Yes, that was us! We took the monsters from Fontaine and the Abyss and--!" The hooded stranger announced, but they were soon cut off.

"Aye ye ye, giving the surprise away!" the other hooded stranger exclaimed. But, they could no longer hide anything. "Yes, it was you that did this." But another accident soon slipped. "Kill this robot, the icy rock incident will end!" But, they were soon condemned for such.

"Really, you thought these sorts of actions are acceptable?" Aega asked, irritated. "Do you know how many people in Liyue you could have harmed from your actions?"

But, no answer ever came. Hooded strangers screaming en garde as the Ruin Guard of strange properties came forward, the early adult rolled up his sleeves. A robot of other properties? No problem. Surely, this one would be more simple to fight than the normal ones. Flaming swords taking themselves to the table, the battle was heated.

Aega bringing her windy spells to the table, the orb alien ruin guard dropped one of its balls from the center of the creature's chest. Blowing away the first of many, Loba soon tagged herself into the ring. More enemies falling out of the hole in the robotic monster's center, the world fell apart.

Krysí summoning her rat army, the robot had begun to spark up like a certain type of holiday tree in another universe. Summoning her watery army a second time after the first round, static clung to the enemy as more alien orbs fell out of the creature one after another.

Ryś releasing her fiery cat fists, Anemo and Pyro had begun to shake hands with one another. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but ponder. Anemo, did it react with all seven of the elements? If such were the case, it was a force to be reckoned with for sure.

Bringing his flaming greatswords to the table, more orb aliens dropped out from within the Ruin Guard's flimsy body. Striking the dual blades one after another as the feeling of the weight in his hands was about to lessen to zero, the early adult kept the momentum going. Any second now, and the robot would reach the end of its life.

Party of four in front of him combining the forces of Hydro, Pyro, Cryo and Anemo amongst themselves, the final stages of the battle were ready to take shape. Adding the final layer to the mix as the greatswords swung with a fervor, only one spherical monster within the machine monster remained.

Aega's windy spells releasing the final blow, nothing else remained within the robotic foe. Krysí and Ryś' weapons dealing the final blow upon the enemy, the monster was soon scrap metal. Exit door soon appearing the party of five had been brought back to Teyvat.

Feeling an array of heat as Liyue had been returned to, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. All the ice rocks, had they truly been gone? No more icy pathways in front of him, the soldier shrugged. He supposed they were all gone, just like they had never been there.

Loba, Aega, Krysí and Ryś stating they all had to report to Her Majesty, a quadruple set of farewells had been tossed towards the quartet's direction. Group of four teleporting away as a singular proxy map had done its fast travelling duty, the soldier returned to Liyue Harbor after two hours of walking.

Figuring the Agent was still at Northland Bank, the early adult walked off towards the red staircase. Wanwen Bookbooth walked through and bridge walked through, the early adult closed his eyes as he entered the bank of many debts owed. Closing the doors behind him, the soldier prepared himself. Agent waiting for him, the soldier swore he could a smirk underneath his mask.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent responded, smirking. "You are dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya within two hours."

Slither of free time granted, the early adult could feel his tongue dry up like a river. Maybe now was a good time to stop and get some tea. Resolute on his decision descended the staircase. Walking off towards the food district, the teahouse had soon been reached.

Tall brunette in his usual seat, and opera singer off towards the left, the early adult seated himself. Wise man already sipping on his tea, the soldier could not help but wonder. The comment about Rex Lapis' wrath, was it true? But, he supposed it would be rude to disturb him while he was consuming his daily dose of tea.

Spotting Yínlóng walking over towards him, the early adult turned his attention towards him. The panda chimera, he hadn't been harmed after he left, was he? He knew not all injuries were visible upon a person. Pink eyes soon meeting his mismatched ones, the soldier snapped himself out of it. This was no time to get lost in thought. Greeting about to come his way, Siorc kept himself focused.

"Oh, hey there, Siorc," Yínlóng greeted, words slow. "Here for some tea?"

Nodding, the panda chimera stepped away, for a moment. But, as they had been in the kitchen, the opera singer had begun to do a little dance. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. The opera house, where in Liyue could it have been? Surely, there had to have been one.

"You came right one time," the opera singer said, smiling. "I am about to hold a small show." The tall brunette soon chimed in.

"You are telling the story of the snow wolves, Miss --- ---?" the tall brunette asked as if playing dumb. But another voice soon joined the party.

"Boss, you're hosting an opera right now?" Yínlóng asked, words speeding up a smidgeon. "Can I join?"

"Alas, Miss Yinlong, but no," the opera singer responded. "You are not experienced enough."

"I understand, boss," Yínlóng responded, panda ears drooping a smidgeon. They then turned towards Siorc as they placed the bamboo shoot tea in front of him. "Siorc, are you okay? I heard you fought more aliens today." But one more comment had joined the peanut gallery.

"Aliens, in Liyue, now that's quite the rumor," the tall brunette commented, hiding a small chuckle. "Sounds like quite the adventure. But, I assure you, Miss Yinlong, there is no such thing as aliens. They are a product of fictitious science."

Hearing the tall brunette's comment, the early adult blinked. Was he messing with the panda chimera? But, the early adult shook his head. Maybe he was just trying to quell his concerns. Giving Yínlóng a nod, the soldier had begun to sip his tea. Lights around the teahouse soon dimming, an opera had soon begun. Tale of the snow wolves had soon begun.

Quick, half-hour opera coming to a close, the early adult rose from the wooden chair. Passing of his gratitude towards the panda chimera and praise given to the opera singer, farewells in return had been given to the chimera. Knowing it was time to return to Snezhnaya, the soldier highlighted the waypoint in the military barracks.

Reaching the soundproof room after about fifteen minutes of walking, a sea of questions flowed through the soldier. The hooded strangers, who were they, and why had they been causing problems in Liyue? He knew this would certainly not be the last he would ever see of them.

Wave of tiredness overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform put away, and glasses put aside as well, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Wave of tiredness overtaking him immediately as his head hit the pillow, one final thought crashed out to sea as the world of sleep had begun to take the chimera away.

This is just the beginning.

The strangers would soon return.

Chapter 3: Energy In The Oceans: Merusea Village Catastrophe

Chapter Text

"No, this can't be happening.
Oh, archons.

No this can't be happening!
Oh, Your Majesty. Why?

No, this can't be happening!
Oh, archons. No.

No, no, no, no, this can't be happening.
Of all the orders,

Diving underwater, really?
I cannot swim. This will be
Very disappointing for you,
I am asking you to reconsider.
No, no, no, this can't be happening!
Guess I'm going

To drown today, guaranteed.
How could she request this of me?
I never learned to swim.
She should ask any other soldier, seriously. But, I

Can't say no, she'll kill me.
Archons, if you can hear me,
Now would be the time to throw a wrench.
Now would be the time to intervene.
Of all the orders to receive,
This one will be my

Biggest failure.
Everything will result in nothing.

It would be best for this order to be

Cancelled. As soon
As possible. I know that
Now will be my biggest failure,
Now my disappointment will
Overflow to its peak.
This will be the end of me.

Soon, I will drop underwater and
Will never rise. Am
I overreacting? No.
My parents in my stolen childhood never taught me to swim.

Yet, I do not blame them.
Obviously, they had their
Ultimate rhymes and
Reasons to not do so.

Maybe I am overreacting,
After all, surely, Her Majesty has something to
Jet me around
Even I am sure
She has something, all
Those parts she's asked me to collect over the
Years. She's had to have made it into something.

Whatever happens, I can't panic. Whatever
Happens, I must
Yield my concerns.

Don't panic, don't panic.
Obviously, she came prepared.

No way she didn't think ahead.
Obviously, she did.
There is no way she

Didn't. Remove my fears,
Open my eyes.

Take a deep breath,
Here's to some sort of technology that
I'll be able to have
Swim for me.

There has to be
One thing like that.

Maybe there will be.
Even though it might not exist, I need to have hope. Breathe."

Four days had passed since the hyena researched and collected energy sources in the Court of Fontaine. Diplomacy of nothing not returning for the first three days, a peculiar odd job rose out from the ashes like a phoenix regaining the ability to fly after shedding all its feathers.

Coming across a strange ice rock incident in Liyue, the hyena, the rat, bobcat and jackal chimeras vanquished aliens within the Geo Nation of Contracts. Spotting strangely dressed figures covering their faces with hoods along the way while defeating the otherworldly forces, oddities sliced diplomacy of nothing with a scythe.

Impenetrable ice rocks removed from the picture on the third day, diplomatic affairs returned with a vengeance on the final twenty-four hours passing. Day droning onward, mundaneness refused to kick the bucket for any given reason. Despite such, the chimera remained loyal.

The sound of morning alarm bells crashed symbols upon the frozen air. As the alarm bells continued with their booming discord, hundreds of Fatui Soldiers sent their complaints to the seven above. But, despite such complaints roaring on, everyone remained loyal in the permafrost north.

The protests about were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the early adult pumped his currently human fists together. Today, another day of absolutely nothing would await him, for sure. Time running out, the soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the early adult closed the buttons on his uniform, the hyena could not help but wonder. Those hooded people he spotted around Liyue, who were they, exactly? He could not help but feel he will definitely see more of them as time goes on. But, the chimera pushed such thoughts into the snow outside. There was no time to concern himself over such things.

But, as the early adult closed the buttons on his uniform, the thoughts would not cease, even for a moment. People of many mysteries flowing through his mind once more, the soldier could not help but ponder further. Was something about to happen in Teyvat? Those hooded strangers, they had to have done something. But, the hyena snapped himself out of such thinking once more. Why was he still thinking about such? He needed to focus on the work day in front of him.

Flipping the work mode switch on, the hyena clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Plain ones in his hair and ears, the soldier stared at the jewelry and accessory box in front of him. Turning his prized possessions into weapons, was this truly what he wanted? He had made a huge mistake, for sure. But, it was too late. The decision had already been made.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the young soldier stared at the Geo Delusion beside it. The sinister orb, should he use it? But, the early adult flipped the Mora coin onto the tails side. Now was not the time to use Her Majesty's gift. He was not ready for such, guaranteed.

Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, another wave of confidence flowed through the soldier. Today, for sure, would be another day of nothing. Surely, diplomatic affairs were an order away. Adjusting his glasses, the early adult had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the Fatui Agent boots march onward with a militaristic fervor, the early adult could not help but ponder. Was it just his imagination, or were the Agent's steps getting much louder? Realizing such once more, the soldier had no shadow of doubt. His hearing had gotten stronger, for sure. Regaining focus, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. It was time to focus on work. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention towards the door. The time had come for his day of nothing to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be going to Merusea Village to assist our new underwater allies." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. The entire continent should belong to Her Majesty.

Siorc jumped ten steps back. Word underwater swimming through his ears, the hyena let out an echoing scream. He could feel himself begin to fade away as the name Merusea Village crawled around his small body. He had to go underwater? There was absolutely no way he would ever make it down there alive. Swimming was beyond the scope of his ability.

Word underwater echoing in his inhuman eardrums once more, the early adult walked around in a circle. His life would be over the moment he were to dive. Her Majesty would be disappointed in him, for sure. This is the end of the road, the final destination, his doom sentence.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again, voice raising. "What is your problem?" He could not possibly fathom what could be on the soldier's mind, but he had a slight idea. "You will be given a specialized diving suit that will be able to swim for you. So, quit whining and get in gear!"

The early adult took a long, deep breath. Right, he was on the job right now. There was no time for screaming. He had to focus on the workday at hand. Work mode switch flipping upward once again, the hyena placed his hand out in front of him. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Able to swim or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.

"Excellent, let's get going, solider," the Agent responded. But, as he said such, he tacked on another round of orders. "You will be finding the Merusea Village by yourself. You are forbidden from teleporting there." Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight lock. As the escort to Fontaine began, the early adult could not help but think.

He cannot teleport there directly? Having a proxy map has spoiled him, indeed.

***

"The seas beneath Teyvat, what could possibly await me?
How could Her Majesty leave such a job to me?
Even she has allies underwater?

Why does this feel manufactured,
Out of place?
Really, I do not truly understand.
Looks like she has alliances everywhere. I
Do not know how word reached to the world

Underwater. I simply am
Not aware. But, I
Do not doubt there are other Fatui down in the trenches.
Even so, I must ask again. Why me?
Really, I cannot swim. I
Will not be of much use in this mission.
All and all, this suit will it
Truly swim for me?
Even as I hear this claim, I have many doubts. This is not
Realistic. Something about this feels

Widely off.
However, I should not question it, surely.
After all, I must wear it.
The choice is not mine.

And so, here I go, to search for the village below the
Water. Will I be able to find it? That I do know,
And, for the most part,
It could be anywhere,
Truly. I am forbidden from teleporting. This map, it has
Spoiled me rotten.

Merusea Village, wherever you are, I will find you. Will it be
Easy? Doubtfully, but here I go."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the early adult blinked. He was back by the hill once again? He supposed it was time to get used to such sight before him. Falls roaring in the distance, the Agent had begun to drag him down the mountainside once again.

Boat summoned out of nowhere once again, the soldier had been placed into the wooden vessel. Removed from the gripping prison, the vehicle of Dendro creation had been pushed forward. Romaritime Harbor getting closer with every stroke, the hyena gazed at the waterfalls across the corner.

Harbor meters away, the hyena could not help but wonder. Merusea Village, where could it possibly be located? He knew he could not open his map to take a look, or the Agent would take it from him, guaranteed. Boat about to dock at any given moment, the early adult took a long deep breath. There was no time to think about such things.

Wooden vehicle soon docked, a bag had been handed off to the hyena. Zipper partway open, the soldier peered down inside. Array of diving equipment within, the soldier prepared himself. He would need to find a place to change along the way, for certain. Mission to find the village repeated, his subordinate soon exited the area.

Ascending the staircase, the early adult wondered once more. Where could the Merusea Village be? Perhaps taking the tour to the Court of Fontaine would refresh his memory of the location. Resolute on his decision, the early adult walked towards the lift. Glass box room taken, the hyena walked towards the Aquabus Station.

Pressing the button on the sign of the corner, the early adult could not help but notice the silence around him. Absolutely no one around him, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. Why was the harbor so quiet? But, he supposed he had arrived at the area at a much earlier time than most of the generic citizens.

Aquabus shortly arriving, the soldier hopped on. Aquatic creature recognizing him from the last ride, no tour guide had begun. Told for the second ride they were headed for the Court of Fontaine, the hyena remained seated. Vehicle of high technology cruising forward by itself, the solo trip towards the capital city had begun.

Tour guide saying absolutely nothing, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. The ride was quiet, too quiet. But, the soldier kept his attention forward. He needed to stay focused. Capital city quite a far ways away, the hyena stared at the entrance from afar. The citizens within the Court of Fontaine, would they know where Merusea Village could be? He supposed asking would not hurt.

As the bus of automatic properties had begun to pass by various points of interest, the early adult turned his head towards the left. The tour guide, she said she had been from the Merusea Village. Would asking her the exact location point him to an answer? But, the early adult put a pin in such thought. There was no way he could disturb the employee of the aquabus while she was working hard.

Vehicle soon docking itself at the Court Station, the early adult removed himself from the vessel. Now was the time to inquire about the village underwater, for sure. Question on the tip of his fingers and tongue, the early adult was ready to make his presence known within the Hydro Nation of Justice.

Spotting a well dressed generic man with a hat as high as the sky, the early adult steeled himself. Surely, this person had to have known where the village underwater was. Forbidden question on the tip of his tongue, excusing himself hit the wind. Rich nobody looking his way, the question presented itself.

Generic nobody stating he had no idea where such place was, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Was he already wasting his time? But, he knew he could not give up hope. He had to ask other people, without hesitation. Heading upon the northward path, the soldier's inquiries were about to get on the offensive once more.

Group of well dressed women citizens by a magazine stand stating they had no interest in telling him where the undersea village was, the early adult could taste the first layer of defeat. But, the early adult supposed no one owed him an answer if they did not wish to provide one.

Veering off towards the southwestern area of the capital city, a group of socialites scoffed at the soldier as his inquiry rolled out for the third time. Women and men of many riches stating they don't speak to poor people, the hyena gazed down at his uniform. Did his winter jacket make him look like he had no Mora to his name? Maybe his Fatui uniform did not make him look the wealthiest.

Letting the people flaunting around their money be, the early adult let out a deep sigh. Perhaps it was best to try the hotel across the corner. Surely, at least someone would be willing to give him the time of day. Resolute on his decision, the hyena headed for the popular establishment.

But, as the soldier headed for the area, a face he least likely wanted to see cracked the glass around him with gigantic shatter. Pesky penguin chimera walking towards the hotel area, the early adult let out a groan. If Earl were to see him, his annoying voice would start yammering on, for sure. He needed to get away, this instant.

Such attempt to step away was over before it could even begin. Eyes locked onto him, the most pesky of all the penguins dashed off towards him like he was late to his own wedding. Distance between the double thorn in his side coming closer, the hyena grit his teeth. It was too late, there was not enough space to escape.

Spotting his future husband in the corner, Earl could feel a arrow ready to come for his heart. Siorc had come back again, so soon? This was a match made in Celestia. Taking note there had been diving equipment peering out of his bag, he had begun running. He certainly needed a place to change. It was time to break the ice.

"Hi there, Siorc!" Earl greeted, voice loud. "Are you going diving? Let me take you to my home so you can get changed!"

Earl taking his hand, the early adult let out a deep sigh. Why did he have to run into him? This penguin family, he wished he could keep them away from him with a large picket fence that blocked them from going anywhere near him. But, he knew such would never be a reality.

Guided towards the boutique, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. He supposed he had no choice but to let the pesky penguin lead the way. He knew if, for even a moment, he tried to let go of his hand, complaints would be voiced. Not wishing to hear the thorn in his side's voice for even a second longer, the early adult waved the invisible white flag.

Reaching the boutique doors after a short while, the soldier held back the urge to groan. It was time to get this quick diving suit dressing over with and look for the underwater village by his lonesome. There was no way, even after putting on his diving equipment that the citizens would bother to disclose such information.

Boutique stepped through, the world of retail above him was bustling as always. But, such attention to the fashion store above was cut short as the staircase was quickly descended. Small abode underneath soon reached, the prickly thorn in his side announced himself to the population beneath.

"I'm back from Poisson!" Earl exclaimed.

Seeing their brother coming back home with the same Fatui boy from last week, Baron shook their head. Did he try and persuade this young man once again to go on some sort of date with him? He was definitely not interested in him, in the slightest. He needed to stop trying to pursue a relationship that would simply never happen.

"You brought that boy home with you again?" Baron asked, exasperated. "You know he's not interested in you."

"I just brought him here to have a place to change!" Earl barked back. "No ulterior motives!"

Removing the clothing from the bag behind him, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Fat, blubbery brown suit with circular buttons on the gloves with arrows pointing in eight directions, the hyena tilted his head. What about this diving equipment would allow it to swim for him? Confusion had begun to loop on repeat.

Removing his current heelless shoes, the young soldier removed the winter jacket from around him. Gazing at the underwater uniform, the early adult blinked once more. This outfit, there was no way it would be able to assist him with swimming. But, he knew there was no time to think about such things.

Placing the diving pants over him, the soldier swore he could feel the suit feel like a bucket of rocks. But, the chimera kept going. Chest encased in the underwater suit, the soldier swore he would break the floorboards down beneath him. His body, had it become as heavy as metal?

Suit inflating as he placed the gloves upon his hands, the early adult held back the urge to grunt as Earl placed an oxygen tank behind him. Why was the pest helping him? But, the soldier kept himself silent. There was no reason for him to say anything. Goggles soon handed off to him, the early adult removed his glasses. But, as he placed the tools for water sightseeing around his eyes, the penguin's voice fired up the cheese grater.

"So, what brings you here today? Another mission?" Earl asked. Archons, were the details about to get juicy.

The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. How nosy of Earl to inquire about his mission. Such busybody behavior would only cause him harm down the road. But, he supposed, if he gave him the answer he wanted, he would quiet himself down. Taking a breath, he looked the fashionable penguin in the eyes.

"I have to find Merusea Village, sir," Siorc responded, voice barely audible.

Hearing Siorc mention he was looking for Merusea Village, hearts appeared in Earl's eyes. Was he going to the deep depths of the ocean to help out the Melusine? How heroic of him. He wanted to become his wife right now. The village, it was somewhere in the Beryl region, he believed. Maybe he should take him there.

"Merusea Village is underwater in the Beryl Region, I'll take you there!" Earl exclaimed, he then cupped his hands around his lips. "Malika, I'm taking the Aquabus! I'll be back in an hour!" Sister soon sticking her head from the top of the stairs, her voice soon joined the party.

"Alrighty, come back safely!" Malika exclaimed. Her voice then trailed off.

Earl leading the way, the early adult followed behind in silence. Boutique as busy as ever, the thorn in his side soon told his sister to have Kaiser take over his shift, for the time being. Hour soon traded off, the highly acclaimed clothing store was soon exited. Reversed back towards the Aquabus Station, the sound of rain hit the city streets.

Slight rain plaguing the area as the pesky penguin and he rode the ride back towards the Romaritime Harbor, the early adult gazed at the sights around him. The underwater village was somewhere in the Beryl Region? Where could it have been, exactly? He supposed he was about to find out.

Rainwaters hitting the aquatic railways, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. The elevated water platforms, what would happen if their water levels rose due to an impending storm? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Why was he thinking about such things? Surely, whoever was in charge of the upkeep of the nation's transportation would account for such.

Soon reaching the next station, the early adult stared at the sky above him. The rain, would it let up within the next hour or two? If it were to come down harder, it would be a struggle to find an undersea village, guaranteed. Earl looking at the sky above him, as well, his annoying voice bounced on the rain.

"Concerned about the rain? Don't worry about that, it always rains after a court case. All you need to say is this!" Earl said, he then cupped his hands around his lips. "Hydro Dragon, Hydro Dragon, don't cry!"

Rain coming to a halt in an instant, the early adult's eyes opened wide. It was that simple to stop the precipitation up above? What a practical, yet ridiculous solution. Would chanting such in the other nations stop the rainfall there as well? Surely, it had to work. But, the early adult pushed such thoughts away. There was no time to focus on such things.

Earl guiding him down towards the staircase in the corner, the soldier gulped as he descended down to the bottom floor. The world below him was full of water. How would he reach the underwater village with such obstacle in the way? But, he knew he needed to brave the waves, no matter what.

Thorn in his side telling him to jump across towards the boat across the way, Earl took a dive from one side to the other. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but feel a sting of green cloak him. Those who could swim, what show-offs. Placing his heavy booted feet in front of him, the early adult bent his knees.

Taking the leap of faith, the pesky penguin chimera leaped upward from the body of water next to him. Hand reaching out to him from the other side, the early adult grabbed his gloved palms. First obstacle reached, the chimera deployed his windglider. The next obstacle would soon be upon him.

Finding himself on the edge of a beach with sea stars clinging down on the sediment below, Earl veered off towards the mountainside. Seeing such, the hyena chased the guide from behind. The Merusea Village, was it somewhere beyond a mountain range? He supposed he was about to find out.

Heavy suit weighing him down as he ascended upward, the soldier let out a deep grunt. Water gear, how awful, it was the heaviest article of clothing imaginable. Someone in the clothing department had to invent a lighter outfit, for sure. Reaching the tops of the mountainsides, the guide in front of him dashed off towards another sandy beach.

Spotting an aircraft in the corner unattended as Earl guided him through a sea of grass and hills, the early adult could not help but wonder. Would taking the aircraft help him to be able to easier locate the underwater village? But, the soldier kept his attention forward. It was best to keep his attention on the path in front of him and just follow the leader.

Earl zipping past a lake of boiling water, the hyena turned his attention towards it. Was that where the village was located? Thorn in his side not stopping, the early adult shrugged inside his mind. If such were not where it was, he needed to keep following along. Stray trees passed through, the world of grass awaited him.

Footsteps in front of him soon halting by an empty canvas, the soldier turned his attention towards a deep body of water in the corner. Merusea Village, could it have been over there just below the dark blue waters? If such were the case, he needed to learn how the automatic swimsuit worked this instant. Earl soon studying the gloves, for a moment, an answer was about to come his way.

"Oh, I see, this glove has a motor inside it that will sync with your brain waves to allow you to swim automatically. You won't have to press anything. It'll almost be like you're swimming yourself! Nifty, I don't think even Fontaine technology has come this far!" Earl rambled on. "Be careful down there!" Waving, he then sifted through his pockets. Tiny fanny pack in his hands, he moved it towards his future husband. "Here's your things, by the way!"

Small bag containing his clothes and glasses, the early adult let out a gulp. Wouldn't such a bag float away? Placing it next to the oxygen tank for the time being, the soldier walked towards the water bed's edges. Taking a long deep breath, the soldier threw himself down into the water. Feeling a spark in the glove and in his brain, the world under the water awaited him.

Seabed cave soon reached the swimsuit pushed the soldier downward. Schools of fish and crabs floating around on the water, the hyena could not help but feel a wave of fascination flow through him as his arms and legs kept reaching the deeper depths. The world underwater, how incredibly beautiful. But, such moments were short lived as he spotted another body of water towards a peculiar yellow disk.

Knowing he had to get the machine inside the glove to thrust upward, the early adult centered his attention on the northward direction. Feeling a spark inside the glove, his legs moved him towards the next pool of water, but as he kept moving up, the sea had already ended.

Dark body of grass and underground cave soon awaiting him, the early adult jumped downward. Peculiar area with strange red crystals everywhere, the early adult had begun walking. Where had he fallen to? Wherever it was, he knew he would have to take a look later. Cruising through the unknown world, the soldier kept his eyes on the village prize.

Hearing a roaring waters in the distance, the early adult headed towards the noise. Small damp cave area reached filled with sea stars and lizards everywhere, the young soldier stepped forward. Small sea creature tending to flowers beside a ladder, the early adult stuck his nose up. Windwheel Asters were being grown here? He would look the other way. Nature and he were still not on speaking terms.

Finding himself in a brightly colored pink village with cottages across the way split apart and elevated by ladders, the hyena could not help but start to wonder. Was dropping down to reach this place the only underwater element? He could not help but feel slightly mislead.

Spotting a lot of sea people with many bright colors on their bodies, the hyena turned his attention towards them. Were those the people he needed to assist? But, the early adult shook his head. That could not have been it. The Agent told him the people he would need to help were underwater. He needed to dive much deeper.

Cruising around the under sea settlement, the soldier kept his attention forward. Surely, the people he would have to assist were somewhere. Hearing another waterfall off in the distance, the early adult dashed through the rocky platforms. Pool of water soon upon him, the next spark travelled to his mind.

Jumping downward into the pool, the suit thrusted the hyena downward with gusto. But, as the suit automatically pushed him down, the soldier swore he could hear a commotion as he had almost made it to the bottom sides of the water. Sending a signal to the motor to thrust him towards the left, his body pushed with a fervor.

Automatic thrust soon stopping near a wall in the corner, something of immediate concern caught the soldier's attention. Spotting a group of two sea lions surrounding a meek looking blond haired boy, the early adult kept his attention forward. Duo looking like they were about to do something troublesome, the soldier observed the two possible citizens of the world underneath.

Floating to the left had been man with a grey sea lion body, and flippers to match. Blue outfit covering his Upper body, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Was he wearing the Court of Fontaine police force uniform? If he were on legal water patrol, he was in trouble, for sure. Hairy whiskers covering his nose, the early adult turned his attention to his face. Grey eyes that matched his body, and steel blue hair that went down to about his inhuman shoulders, the chimera turned his attention towards the other man.

Swimming to the right had been a man with a blueish grey sea lion body. Long, messy light grey hair on the left side of his head going down to about his chest and right side only going down to his ears, the soldier turned his attention to the man's face. Grey eyes and whiskery nose, the chimera looked at his outfit. Green shirt that looked rather plain, confusion looped on repeat. Was he just a seafolk? Why was he stopping the blond person, if so? Turning his attention towards the final person, the early adult quickly observed him, as well.

Ganged up on in the middle had been a short blond haired young man whose locks went down to about his chin. Freckles decorating his face alongside his lifeless blue eyes, black hat, outfit and oxygen tank behind him, the hyena ended his examination. Was this person investigating the deep oceans? But, his thoughts were soon cut off by some sort of show.

Party of two sea lions soon swimming around in a chaotic manner with suspicious looking objects in their hands, Siorc could not help but feel a heavy sense of doom flow through his chest. What were these two up to? Whatever it was they were plotting, he could not help but feel it was not a good thing.

Hearing the sound of something ticking as the two moved behind the blond, the early adult could feel his heart begin to sink into his stomach. Were these two about to attack this young man with an explosive? If such were the case, he would need to put a stop to it, guaranteed. He could not let such a dangerous event occur.

"Heeey, Filament! Over there!" the blue haired sea lion shouted. "A machine!" He then held a laugh under his breath. "I order you to gather it!"

"It's --------," the blond responded. But, he was soon cut off.

"Better get that machine!" the blue haired sea lion responded. "I ordered you!"

Ticker thrown across the water, the blond swam over with absolutely no emotion on his face. But, as he had done such, the grey haired sea lion sawm towards it. Small stuffed penguin looking ready to blow at any given moment, the soldier's eyes twitched underneath his undersea goggles. No, he couldn't let this go on. The floating stuffed animal, it was a bomb. As the ticking plushie was tossed towards him, words stuck to hyena's throat like honey. Say something, he had to say something. He had to warn the young man right now, before it was too late.

"Sir, don't touch it!" Siorc shouted. "It's going to explode!"

Young blond moving out of the way, the two sea lion men turned to each other with looks of absolute shock on their faces. Seeing such, the chimera shook his head. Why did they look like the world had been turned upside down? There was no way he was going to sit by and watch as these two were ready to bring harm to another person. Group of two looking ready to shout at him, the hyena prepared a counter point. Whatever defense they had, he would object to it.

"Éclater, can you believe this guy?" the blue haired sea lion asked, high pitched squeal in his voice. "He just swam by and stopped out little game on Filament here!" The one named Éclater soon tagged himself into the conversation.

"No, Brume, he's such a killjoy!" Éclater said to the one named Brume. He then turned towards the stranger. "Dude, bro, it was just a tiny little smoke ball inside a doll! You just ruined the fun, dude!"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the shore line up above. He has, yet again, met even more annoying people. Was the nation of Fontaine secretly the nation of the insufferable? How aggravating. But, his thoughts were soon cut off as the blond studied his diving suit. Eyes on the chest area, sweat poured down his cheek. Just what was he looking at?

"Oh. You were ordered to help the Melusine with their problems, too," the blond said, voice almost too quiet to hear.

Hearing the blond's words, the early adult had come to a quick, haphazard realization. The diver boy, he was a member of the Fatui, as well. Word Melusine said, as well, two and two had come together. Those were the allies he was about to assist, for sure. Nodding, another round of information was about to come his way.

Blond informing him a group of Melusines to the south needed some assistance, the soldier let the signal lead. Spotting an open cavern in the corner, the hyena's diving suit thrust him forward. But, as the automatic functions pressed on, one of the two new annoyances swam towards him, ready to announce himself to the world.

Meek looking person with purple hair looking even easier to pick on than Filament, Éclater put on a goofy smile. Here he was, his next victim. The perfect person to pull pranks on. Was he one of those Fatooers like Filament? What a fun new person to mess with. He was an easy target.

"Since you'll be here awhile, my name is Éclater!" Éclater shouted, voice raising. "But, you can call me Eclair! Or dunderhead, or idiot! I dunno why, but I get called that last one a lot!"

The hyena held back the urge to sigh. He could definitely guess why someone would call this sea lion man an idiot. Suit continuing to thrust him towards the cavern towards the east, the other annoyance soon jetted on by. Blue haired sea lion looked like his brain was dead as he cut him off from the other side, the soldier focused his attention forward. He could not let himself get distracted by these sea people.

"And, I'm Brume!" Brume exclaimed. "Nice to meet you v- I mean friend!" Did he almost say victim? Nope, he did not, no siree bob. "The Melusines are thisaway!"

Sea lion duo guiding him towards a house in the corner, the soldier blinked at the sight before him. Sea creatures with grey, blue and pink skin that looked like the aquabus tour guides and semi aquatic guards around the Court of Fontaine, two plus two equaled four. The sea creatures around Fontaine, they were all Melusines.

Brume swimming over to the trio, very casual language had come their way. Flippers pointing to him saying he was the dude sent here to help them, the soldier let out a groan. Why was this sea lion talking like that? Couldn't he have just spoken about him normally? But, he supposed he was asking too much of a stranger.

First Melusine swimming towards him, one of three requests had come his way. Asking for Pluie Lotuses, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Gather some flowers for her? What a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad request. Couldn't she have asked for anything else? But, the solider knew he had no choice but to comply. Nodding, the second Melusine in need swam towards him.

Second sea creature telling him to bury five artifacts for her around Elynas, a set of charms were slapped into his gloves. Placing them in the fanny pack alongside his clothes, the soldier stared off into space. He supposed he would have to find a good place to bury them up on the surface.

Third and final Melusine asking for him to gather painting materials, the soldier titled his head. He had to find art supplies? How incredibly peculiar. There was no way they would be able to paint under the sea. Photo handed to him with a picture of the proclaimed painting materials, confusion nibbled on his cheeks. What exactly was he looking at? There was no way such were painting materials.

Trio informing him if he completed their tasks, he would receive robot toys in exchange, the early adult rose an eyebrow. Was this all a part of Her Majesty's schemes? The blond haired young man, which part of the Fatui army was he under? But, he supposed he did not have time to think about it. Tasks all received, the early adult readied to dive back upward.

Suit pushing back up towards the village, the hyena cut back towards the area of which he came. Knowing the only way back towards the early adult climbed through the high elevated area. Reaching the aquatic tunnel he had came through after an hour of a tough climb, the surface world was soon reached once more with the automatic push of a button.

Figuring he would be up on the surface for quite awhile, the early adult undid the diving suit. Rubbery, heavy suit folded up into a neat pile the hyena placed the diving equipment into the fanny pack, the early adult removed the proxy orb from his back pocket. Surely, looking at where Elynas was wasn't against the rules.

Seeing a landmark labelled as Elynas in the northeast corner, the early adult placed his hand on his chin. He was already in the northeast corner. Surely, finding Pluie Lotuses would not be any sort of trouble on his back. Figuring picking the retched flowers had to come first, the early adult prepared himself for such action.

Spotting a jagged rock structure in the west corner, the early adult headed off towards the east mountains. Seeing such peculiar looking mineral formations, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. Was Elynas the grassland opposite of Dragonspine? He could not help but feel unnerved by such possibility.

Hearing the sound of roaring falls nearby the lake he had just returned from, the hyena could not help but wonder. The waterfalls, were they the same ones underneath the sea bed? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. There was no time to think about such things.

Small mountainside nearby, the early adult climbed upward. Keeping himself on the look out for any flowers, the hyena looked at the grass beneath him. Nothing but the usual weeds beside the trees, the soldier kept walking. But, as he moved towards a large puddle beside the dirt, the first set of plants was upon him.

Light purple flowers sitting in a small puddle, the early adult let out a hiss. He had to pick these flowers? How incredibly aggravating. Nature and he were seeing other partially human people. Set of three picked, the punishment scene flashed in the soldier's brain.

Humiliation from some time prior looping as the plants sat in the palm of his hands, the soldier let out a pained scream. Why couldn't the memory leave his partially human mind? Shaking such flashback off, the hyena tried with all his might to remain calm. He could not let his past come back to haunt him now; his workday was still in full swing.

Spotting nothing but strange bell shaped fruits and mints everywhere along the grass fields, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. If the Pluie Lotuses weren't too far away from the Merusea Village, why couldn't the Melusine herself just pick them? But, the soldier threw the thought down towards the bottom of the ocean. Maybe some of the seafolk at the deep depths of the ocean were unable to breathe air.

Unable to locate any further lotuses around the area, the hyena put a pin in such thought, for the time being. Maybe, for now, it was best to place the artifacts for the second request. Removing the hourglass figure from the fanny pack, a folded sheet of paper spit itself out of the object. Barely legible handwriting in front of him, the hyena attempted to read the fading words.

"-ta-ue -- t-- se---n," the first part of the note tried to say.

Reading such illegible writing, the early adult tilted his head. Was this note written underwater? If such were the case, this would be a challenge to figure out, for sure. Studying the washed away letters for a moment, the hyena attempted with all his might to piece everything together.

Taking note that only two letters seemed to be missing from the first word, an oil bulb floated above the soldier's head. Statue? Did he have to bury the hourglass by the god monument by the lake? Not too far off from such area, the early adult sped off towards the puddle of water once more.

Jumping towards the mountainsides, Siorc descended down the cliffs. God statue practically right in front of him, the early adult sped through the grassy cliffsides on the parallel side. Reaching the area in a flash, the soldier dug a hole in the grass like a prairie dog. Hourglass thrown down the young soldier covered the treasure up like it was all a game.

Barely legible handwriting spelling out --st, the hyena titled his head? East, west? The soldier supposed he was as east as he could possibly reach within the area. Figuring he was supposed to head west, the early adult read the next set of mostly gone words.

--ace -- - b--s- fi--d, the rest of the second part of the note tried to say.

Seeing such incomprehensible words in front of him, the hyena could hardly believe his eyes. What could this note possibly be trying to tell him? It was almost as if, someone from another world was trying to hide the words as if they were profane language. But, the hyena shook his head. The words were just washed away by water. He had to try and decipher what it meant right away.

Focusing his attention on the final word the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Did he have to place the second artifact in some sort of flat field west of the area? Perhaps, just maybe, that was what the note was trying to tell him. Seeing a dirt rode adjacent to him, the early adult sped off towards the pathway.

Walking along the empty field, the soldier turned his head off towards the corner. Large body of water beside a sandy area, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just how many bodies of water were there in Fontaine? Her Majesty, was she going to have him explore ever single one of them? If such were the case, he needed to prepare for such outcome.

Hilichurls minding their own business by unfinished building wreckage, the hyena blinked. Had there been construction in the Beryl Region at some point? Maybe the blond diver would know something about it. He supposed it would be best to keep note of such for later.

Monsters looking ready to pounce on him at any given moment, a chill soon ran down the soldier's spine as a peculiar sea of fungus crunched underneath his feet. Shrooms looking like they could make even the strongest, most stimulant tolerant people to go on a trip in their own heads, a wave of discomfort hugged the soldier from behind. But, such was only the beginning of such unease.

Peculiar field littered with hexagrams and crystals exuding pure energy of darkness, the hyena's knees buckled. What was this heavy amount of concentrated energy? Something was not right. But, the early adult zippered up his thoughts and locked the pocket. He had to bury the artifact. He needed to push his own feelings aside.

Throwing the artifact in the beast circle, the soldier dug his hands into the field beneath him. Hat thrown down underneath the hexagram, the early adult covered up the object as hastily as his currently human hands would allow. The circlet was out of sight, out of mind. Reading the next location on the list, the third one was even less legible than the last.

"-n --- s---ds -- --- b---h," the third part of the note tried to say.

Reading out the absolute gibberish in front of him, the hyena blinked. Where was his supposed to be heading this time? Were the melusines trying to play a game of hangman with him? He needed to fill in the rest of the missing letters to piece the puzzle of the artifacts back together.

Third word only missing two letters, the chimera had come to a foregone conclusion. Sands. That had to have been it, surely. Should he bury the next one by the beach? Opening the proxy orb into map form once more, sandy areas screamed at him from the western path.

Sprinting past the hexagrams, the soldier sped up his running speed a smidgeon. The monster's stomping grounds were out of sight, out of mind. Quiet grass fields everywhere the eye could see, the hyena kept dashing off onto the left path. Beach only getting closer, the hyena kicked up the speed.

Sandy world soon upon him, the early adult halted his sprint. Heartbeat speeding out of control as the seconds marched to the beat, the hyena let out a pant. Breath soon catching up to him, the chimera studied the area, for a moment. Battleground beside the sand, the soldier could feel a chill run down his spine. Was this beach a dueling ground? If the hawk were around, he would be in deep trouble. This had to have been a part of his territory, guaranteed.

Hole soon dug up within the sand, a metallic feather was dropped down into the sediment below. Covering up his tracks, the soldier read the next part of the note in silence. Noting the fourth point looked as though it was telling him to hide the next one on the beach, as well, the early adult dashed off towards the northern sands in the corner.

Metallic flower thrown down into the sands, the hyena let out a deep sigh. What would burying the artifacts do? Would planting them deep beneath the ground give them some sort of energy to gain powers? If such were the case, chaos would brew underneath the Beryl Region. One artifact remaining, the soldier read the final abridged note.

-----ds --- m------ns -- El---s," the final part of the note tried to say.

Even less to go off of, the hyena could feel his brain scramble like eggs. Had he fallen into a bowl of alphabet soup? How was he supposed to decipher such gibberish in front of him? But, the early adult attempted to remain calm. He needed to fill in the rest of the letters.

Noting the last word looked decipherable, the early adult wondered. Elynas? Moving towards the word preceding it, the early adult analyzed the smudges in front of him. The third word, could it have been suggesting he needed to head towards the mountains? He supposed such was the case.

Speeding away from the beaches, the early adult had begun to head north. Burying an artifact towards the mountains? Surely, the note meant for him to head towards the highest possible point in the area. Sneaking through the grassy plains for about half-an-hour, the next order of business was upon the chimera.

Coming across another fungus filled area, a knot formed in the soldier's stomach. Should he bury the last artifact here? He could feel his gut scream out to him the final piece should be dropped down below the hexagram. Letting out a gulp, the early adult would not falter.

Hole covered up as the artifact had become one with nature, the early adult removed the photo he had received hours prior. Picture of a machine with elemental symbols on it sitting beside a body of water, a wave of suspicion flowed through him. The machine in the photo, was it beside the first lake he passed by?

Recalling the body of water was towards the southeast, the soldier dashed towards the beach. Curving his diving boots towards the right, the hyena ran off towards the the direction he came. The lake, surely, the machines were beside it. Beast circle walked through, howls filled the area.

Bony wolves floating towards him, the early adult let out a deep throated holler. The monsters had spotted him. He had to run, head for the hills, get away. Sprinting as fast as his currently human legs would carry him, the enemies grew further away with every second passing.

Returning to the spot he originally came, the young soldier slowed down his pace into a walking speed. Lake across the way soon reached, the early adult gulped at the sight of the machines in the corner. Elemental pods seated on rocks across bubbling water, doom knocked on the door.

Temperature around him rising as boiling bubbles popped on the water, doom invited itself into the house of his frontal cortex. The so called painting equipment, why was it across such a heated body of water? He knew, no matter what, he was in for a scalding aftermath any second now.

Cracking his knuckles, the soldier prepared himself. Surely, if he stepped through the heated lake quick enough, nothing would happen. But, as he stepped into the pool of the boiling isles, the hyena let out a scream. Was he inside a cooking pot? He swore, he could feel his boots ready to melt.

Continuing to wade the water, the early adult let out another shout. His winter pants, any second now, and they would melt right off of him. Stepping closer towards the rock in the middle, the young soldier hopped like a rabbit. He could not become hyena soup. He had to keep going.

Reaching the rock in the middle, the early adult could feel his breath fade away. The lake, it had to have been over fifty degrees celsius, for sure. Strange pods with Anemo, Pyro and Cryo symbols on them, the early adult scooped up the peculiar devices into his hands. Gazing at them, a sea of questions flowed through him. How were these painting materials? There was absolutely no way.

Boiling waters stepped through once more, a wave of regret baked the chimera into a cheesecake. The diving suit, he should not have taken it off at any point while on the surface if there were hazardous conditions. But, he supposed the burns were the consequences of such foolishness.

Figuring everything was gathered, the early adult removed the folded up diving suit from the fanny pack beside him. Diving boots removed, for a moment, the inflatable suit ballooned as it made itself comfortable against the soldier's slightly pinked skin. Pool towards the undersea village reached at a slow pace, the early adult let the gloves serve as the controller.

Spark igniting in his brain as he jumped into the lake beneath him, the automatic movement pushed him downward. Cruising through the unknown cave and back through the village, the early adult returned to the house underwater. Melusine in the spot they were earlier, the soldier's movements synced towards the abode.

Flowers and self proclaimed painting material handed off to the recipients, a set of three small machines were handed off to the hyena in exchange. Commodities placed into the small bag behind him, relief washed over the early adult. Was his job done already?

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part. Blond diver boy informing him he would need to gather ten machines, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. He needed to get more? The Fatui's work was never done. Wave of tiredness overtaking him, the early adult's diving suit of many technological advances thrusted him upwards towards the underwater village. It was best to take a break for the time being.

Crawling up into a ball on the pink ground, the early adult closed his eyes. Wave of sleep ready to take him away, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what did Her Majesty need all these machines for? The soldier did not know, but they were certainly not going to be used for a good thing.

Waking up in the middle of the night, a heavy sense of unease crushed the chimera with a boulder. The surface, something was wrong up there. Doom tolls playing in his head, the early adult returned to Elynas up above. The boiling lake, he had to go there, right this instant.

Electrified seahorses across the lake of scorching heat glaring at him menacingly, the early adult's knees buckled. He was right, something was definitely off here, for sure. The so called painting equipment, removing it was a mistake, for sure. Monsters coming straight towards him, the soldier buckled himself into gear. He had to fight no matter what.

Ready to throw down a flower fiend, the soldier aimed for the melting pot, but as he prepared to do so, the sea creatures of many contradictions spit a beam of lightning the soldier's way. Electricity travelling around every nook and cranny of his short body, static clung to him like glue.

Sparks popping off one after another, the early adult grit his teeth. Limbs frozen in place as the world around him conducted an electricity concerto, the tiny dragons of the sea world beneath amped up the intensity to eleven. Voltage making him the enemy's plaything, the hyena was a standing duck.

Boiling lake looking ready to catch on fire as the judgement of lightning broke loose, the early adult could feel his energy begin to die. Was he going to become the next victim of electrocution? Was this his punishment for coming back to the scene of the crime? Water life denizen's tail slapping into him, the elements kept their rampage going.

But, soon, an unsung hero would arise.

Sea lion pranksters coming towards the boiling lake huffing heavily as they crawled on the ground like babies, the early adult blinked. Brume and Éclater, why were they coming his way? Seeming as though they were out of breath, confusion cranked up the dial to thirteen. Why were they here? How did they reach the surface? But, his unsaid questions fell on blind eyes.

"Oh, archons," Brume whined out. "Air is painful.

"How do humans breathe this air stuff?" Éclater choked out. "And use these..." But, he paused for a second. "...Feet?" The hyena did not know why, but he could feel an invisible kamera from afar zoom in on the sea lion man's mouth.

"Dude, I dunno, but we'd better hurry and defeat those seahorses or we'll..." Brume choked out, coughing hysterically. "...Die out here." The chimera did not know why, but could feel an invisible kamera from afar zoom in on the other sea lion man's mouth, as well.

Sea lion duo soon wielding scythes behind them, the early adult could feel a question tickle him like the lightning crackling through him. Brume and Éclater, they wielded weapons other than the standard five most adventurers would normally wield? But, he supposed Fontaine must have had their own set of rules.

Brume soon absorbing the water around him, a clear cut had been dealt to the sea horse of many thunderous tricks. Creature soon getting a taste of its own medicine, its willpower dropped down towards zero. Creature becoming lumps of fish food on the boiling lake beneath, the attacks soon continued.

Éclater taking energy from a freezing flower in the corner, ice took the stage. Multiple enemies frozen into nothing, the early adult could hardly believe his tired eyes. The sea lion duo, did they just take advantage of the elements around them? How was that even possible?

Final blow dealt in a matter of moments, static left the soldier's body. Sea bound chimeras kissing their weapons like they were their partners, the early adult's lips quivered. How odd. Group of two gasping for water, Brume choked out one last set of remarks.

"Filament...he said there's more somewhere..." Brume choked out. "Archons. Water, water, water!"

Sea lion duo crawling back towards the underwater lake like babies, a wave of tiredness flowed through the hyena. Maybe it was best to return to Merusea Village, as well. Diving back to the Melusine a sea creature abode under the sea, the soldier returned to the colorful ground. Energy dying, one final question flowed through him as sleep took the soldier away.

Why was there more?

***

"So, there's more where that came from.
Éclater and Brume, they don't seem to want to lift a flipper.
And, so it seems I
Have to do this alone. Why
Or how did these creatures get down here? They are posing as a
Rather dangerous hazard.
So, I have to defeat them, guaranteed.
Everyone knows water and electricity don't mix.
So, before all this water conducts, I have to remove this

Obvious problem.
For, this will only cause pain.

Do I know how to fight underwater? No,
Obviously not. Do I know how I am going to defeat these monsters? No,
Obviously not, but
My mission to assist the Melusine. I have to do something."

Waking up the next morning, a group of Melusine surrounded the soldier with fearful glances in their eyes. Seeing such, the hyena opened his ears. Had something happened overnight that needed his immediate attention? If such were the case, he needed to solve it, no questions asked.

"Seahorses have been causing the waters down here to feel unsafe for us," a Melusine said, tail shaking from behind them.

Hearing such, the early adult was ready for action. Seahorses had been breaking havoc underneath the sea, too? This time, for sure, he would have to put a stop to them, guaranteed. Sea denizens guiding him to a peculiar pink portal, subspace devoured the soldier in a split second.

Reaching a body of water tinted purple as the next location was reached, the early adult braced himself. Diving down below, the suit of technological marvels pushed him downward. Electrified seahorses and lifeless jellyfish everywhere, waves of unease threw the hyena into a black hole. He didn't stand a chance, guaranteed.

Spotting Brume and Éclater lounging about in the waters, the early adult could hardly believe his goggled eyes. The sea lion duo, what were they doing just sitting around on the water like nothing was happening? Melusine swimming beside them with static galore, a criticism stepped up to the plate.

"Didn't the Chief Justice employ you two as the Water Defense Force?" the Melusine asked, annoyed. "Shouldn't you be doing something about the threat?"

"Nah, I don't really feel like it," Brume responded. There was a heavy sense of sass in his voice.

"We nearly died coming out of the water yesterday!" Éclater added. Let us be lazy!"

Sea lion duo letting out their woes to laze around, the hyena rolled his eyes to the seabed ceiling. Lazy people were incredibly hopeless. He supposed he had no choice but to fight all the seahorses by himself if they were not going to be of much help. But, as he thought such, questions tossed a coin.

Having absolutely no weapon on him, the hyena could not help but wonder. How was he supposed to battle? He had nothing to attack with whatsoever. He was going to be defenseless for sure. The lazy sea lions, the two of them tapping out had to have been the worst possible outcome.

Turning his attention towards the buttons on his diving suit, the soldier could feel a chill down his spine as only directional arrows stared back at him. Surely, there had to have been something that could aid him in the underwater fight club. Turning his attention towards his left glove, his prayers were singling like canaries.

Tiny unlabeled button seated in the center of the left glove, the early adult pressed the clicker. Hearing the sound of an aquatic blade sheathing itself behind him, the hyena blinked. He should have paid more attention to his diving suit earlier. Singular layer of protection upon him, the hyena was ready to to become the seahorse slayer.

Thrusted towards the left of the seabed, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was it just his imagination, or was the underwater area he as currently in a very bright place? He supposed such was possible. First aquatic enemy zapping the sea around him a new one, the hyena's new blade and the creature met.

Enemy sliced and diced into seahorse meat, the hyena's suit pushed him forward in a northern motion. Second batch of monsters removed from the picture after five hits, the rings of static had only continued to cloud the waters around him. Pushing along a current, another army soon awaited.

Shoal of seahorses readying to get on the electrified offensive, the chimera's blade was armed and ready. Monsters hacked and slashed as if he were a samurai in Inazuma, the early adult blinked. This sea blade, just what was it capable of? It was an enemy killing machine. But, the hyena knew, he could not get too comfortable, or the tables would turn.

Getting too comfortable was his undoing.

Seahorses only getting larger as the suit brought him forward in the brighter than normal waters, the soldier prepared himself. The sea blade, he had to use it once more. But, as he readied to have more fish become food, balled lightning casted its judgement upon the soldier.

Static clinging to his undersea equipment, the early adult grit his teeth. Monster doing a dance as it spun around, the world of electricity took the young soldier for a ride. Power of static penetrating through the various layers of clothing, a bolt travelled down the spine. Creature spinning faster with every second, everything ramped itself up.

Funnel of electricity swirling around, the early adult remained still as a statue. Storm looking ready to swipe him in at all costs, the hyena gulped. He was done, finished, fish food upon the sea floor. Rays of lightning circling around underneath his uniform once more as the cylinder of lightning dragged him in, the chimera prepared his temporary goodbyes.

Closing his eyes as the storm ate him for a snack, the chimera accepted his fate. But, as his defeat was imminent, the sea lion brothers swam towards his direction with a fervor. Seeing such, the hyena blinked. Were they done being lazy? Such was too little, too late. He was already about to be fish food.

"Fine, we'll do our dumb jobs!" Éclater shouted.

Ice and scythes slashing about reducing the enemy to zero, the early adult's freedom from electric cyclone land was upon him. Brume telling him to go on over to the warm place up above, the hyena ascended towards the areas in between the seabed and the surface world.

Monsters everywhere within the self proclaimed warm place above, the hyena blinked. How could the seahorses survive outside the trenches down beneath? But, he supposed, he was still underwater all things considered. Readying to reduce the creatures around to zero, the chimera steeled himself.

Enemies surrounding the red crystals along the pathway, the early adult could not help but wonder. The minerals, could he use them to act as an attack? He supposed such could aid him for the time being. Blade behind his suit, the early adult's temporary weapon and new challenger shook hands.

Bright red wave of energy releasing itself from the crystal off towards the opposite direction, the early adult almost did a quadruple take. The crimson mineral in front of him, did he have to slash it from a certain angle to have it go off in the right direction? He knew he had to try every angle possible.

Correct angle discovered after seven tries, the first seahorse was removed from the equation. Enemies laying themselves out from every corner, crystal versus sea creature kept scoring all the points one after another. Enemies disintegrating into nothing, the moved back towards the village.

Dropping himself down towards a northern body of water, a seahorse back and forth took the chimera for a sea storm. Dark aura overpowering him several steps of the way, the attacks had been in the favor of the opposing forces. Zapped into submission as the fight gained speed, the victor was about to chime the gong.

Shaking the electricity off after ten minutes of attempts, seven blade strikes reversed the tides of the fight. Sea soldier fading with honor, the soldier had been thrusted towards the northwest. But, nothing but fear awaited him as a jet stream threw him away towards the outskirts of the undersea village.

Boss of all the seahorses tooting its own horn as the sea lion duo brought their water and ice attacks of doom, the early adult synced his mind with the most forward button upon his gloves. Were Brume and Éclater fighting the monster by themselves? He needed to take back what he said about them being lazy.

Large monster that almost looked like it was made out of kelp freezing up and shattered out of its ice cocoon seconds in succession of one another, the early adult prepared himself. Aquatic blade joining the duo's scythe swipes, battle cries filled the ocean one after another.

Final enemy looking weaker with every strike, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Aiming the blade a smidgeon, a slice from further away readied to seal the deal. Icy scythe from Éclater doing the final deed, the waters around and below Merusea Village were safe once more.

Readying to throw in the towel for a little while, the soldier readied to head back towards the Melusine's abodes. But, as he prepared to so, one of the denizens swam towards him like a speeding bullet. Green skinned sea creature looking like she wanted something, the early adult turned towards her. Whatever she wanted, he was all ears.

"You're the one helping, right?" the green Melusine asked. "Go get some crab pinchers for me."

The early adult's mouth dropped wide open enough for live fish to swim straight into his mouth. This melusine wanted him to go get her some crab pinchers? Why would she ever need such a thing? But, he supposed he had no choice but to grab them for her. Nodding, a scythe was handed off to him.

Informed the crab in question was residing within a den in the northeast area towards the other side of the Fontaine, the hyena let out a sigh. He had to leave the Elynas area just for crab pinchers? What a ridiculous request. If she needed something that required cutting, there was no need to gather severed animal weapons, for sure.

Knowing he had no choice in the matter, the early adult returned to the surface after what felt like the fifth time in two days. Knowing the crab was outside Elynas, the hyena headed down the southward pathway. Nothing but grass and robots along the way, the soldier kept walking.

Reaching the edge of a beach between the Beryl Region and whatever awaited him on the other side, the soldier stared at the empty boat docked on the water. Tuning such object out, the soldier prepared himself for takeoff. The time had come to dive once more.

Brightly colored trench soon below him, the early adult swore he could see more accursed penguins swimming along the waters. But, the early adult focused on the mission in front of him. Controls and brain handshaking like a certain grating set of electronic noises in another world, the diving suit piloted the soldier onto a southern pathway.

Dropping down towards and underwater cave, the surface soon awaited. Piping hot room before him with boiling water all the same, the early adult let out a gulp. Was it just him, or was the heat in the cave only getting worse as he stepped forward? Crab awakening as the hyena threw himself into the arena, the battle was ready to begin.

Gigantic crustacean with white pinchers with an orange center, and spiky backside akin to that of Liyuean dragons he had once seen illustrated in various books in his stolen childhood, fear ate the solider up like a bowl of cream and onion soup. Was this monster a crab, or was it a dragon? The lines were blurring.

Energy concentrating itself on the crustacean's back, the early adult let out a scream as flaming balls had begun to come his way. The boss of the ring was Pyro? How absolutely terrifying. But, the hyena closed his eyes. The fire was out of sight, out of mind. Scythe in front of him, the early adult steeled himself.

Scythe swiped forward, the creatures shields were up in a matter of moments. Slashing the weapon forward with quick precision, the hyena let out a battle cry. The first layers of defense, they had to go. The pinchers, they had to be his, for the taking. Defenses shattered after ten strike, the soldier kept going.

Aiming for the creature's backside, the crustacean's shell cracked like glass. Flames ready to bake him, the early adult closed out the world around him. The flames, they could not hurt him. Jumping towards the left, the hyena repeated such thought. The flames, they could not hurt him. He could not seem them, he could not feel them. There was no threat.

Keeping the momentum going, the scythe and the crab exchanges blows one after another. Enemy soon weakened after another twenty strikes were gifted, the monster surrendered itself to the defeat bin. Creature fading into the ether, a set of pinchers dropped onto the floor.

Bringing the spoils of war back to the village, the early adult handed the object off to the citizen who asked for such. Feeling a small celebration dance around imagination land, the solider prepared to drift off into a daydream, but such was cancelled before it could even begin. Two Melusine coming towards him, the same request released from the two of them at the same time.

Seabed denizens requesting he clean out the aliens on the surface in exchange for the robots, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. He had to fight more orb monsters once again? Hadn't the entire population of such strange creatures flee to Liyue recently? Surely, he had to have seen the last of them recently.

Returning to the surface world for what felt like the tenth time in two days, the early adult removed his undersea armor. The orb aliens, they had to have been around the hexagrams in the southern eastern area of Elynas. Resolute on his decision, the soldier dashed off towards the beast circles.

Dark violet monster circle covered with orb alien creatures looking like they were ready to multiply and expand their armies, the early adult brought the scythe in front of him. The monster had reestablished themselves within the Beryl Region? But, he supposed the creatures could have always been around lurking in the shadows.

Group of extraterrestrial life forms surrounding him from every corner, the hyena attempted with all his might to reap the creatures from the world they all but invaded. But, such attack was futile. Monsters shielding themselves almost immediately, the blade was a paperweight.

Alien energy taking him for a ride, the hyena attempted with all his might to swing forward once more. But, the failures kept piling up like dollops of ice creams on top of each other. Weapon hitting the ground as the enemies kept moving around, no attempts struck gold.

Creatures from another world looking ready to have the last invisible laugh, the soldier swung around with an aimless fervor. Surely, at some point, his attacks would have to land on the enemy. He needed to try harder, without a doubt. Swiping from every direction, multiple tries took the stage.

Fifth attempt removing the mob of orb aliens out of the picture, the group soon condensed themselves into a pile of balls. Knowing such commodities was definitely not enough, the early adult dashed off towards the beach. Enemies waiting for him right around the corner, the second round of many sounded the gong.

Orbs of condensed energy collected for the second time, the chimera ran off towards the northern sands. Removing the extraterrestrials from the equation after twenty swipes of the scythe, the early adult let out a pant. Any weapon other than a claymore was quite the learning curve indeed.

Slowly cruising through the mountains with a wave of scythe justice, the early adult brushed his currently human palms together. The alien orb creatures, were they multiplying? But, the hyena shook his head. Elynas was an area residing with beast circles everywhere. They had to have been a common sight across the region.

Fights going as smooth as butter as the soldier headed northward, the hyena puffed a sigh of relief. Perhaps, just maybe, he was getting used to the scythe he had been lent after all. But, as he headed for the deepest edges of the area, warning bells rung in the chimera's inhuman eardrums.

Out of place sword graveyard in front of him, the hyena tilted his head. When had a bed of swords gotten here? He could not help but feel something had been off about the sight before him. Stepping towards the cemetery of weapons lost to time, the chimera prepared himself.

Preparedness was a corpse on the battlefield.

Condensed, plum colored orb alien radiating energy of rotting plants floating above the sword graveyard, dread loomed over the soldier. Weapons glowing as they were hoisted up from the ground, the hyena's eyes grew wide. Blades pointed towards him, the doom toll chimed once more.

It was raining swords, hallelujah.

Blades carving into him all at once like a piece of paper, the soldier's body was the next act in the circus of failures. Sea of red trickling down as the swords had become one with him, the hyena could feel his consciousness slip away. Body tumbling downwards to the grass below, unconsciousness awaited him like an invitation to a party. As he could feel himself fade away, one final thought sounded the defeat horn.

Unexpected surprises were the enemy.

***

Come to some time later, a grey haired girl with a creampuff like swirl in the center of her head, side pigtails, red eyes and green outfit looked at the soldier from above. Blood nowhere to be seen on any corner of his body, confusion looped on repeat. What happened to him? Where had this melusine come from?

"You're all fixed up now," the mysterious melusine said.

Body in shape as if nothing ever happened, the early adult bowed a thank you. This melusine girl healed him? How nice of her, if such were the case. Knowing he had to return to the Merusea Village, the young soldier returned himself to his diving equipment. But, as he returned to the underwater sea world beneath, realizations had washed over him.

The next day, had it already arrived? How long had he been unconscious for in the deepest depths of Elynas? He supposed he had been out cold for many hours before coming to. Look of panic on the underwater denizens faces, information had come the soldier's way, in an instant.

Informed alien orbs had made their way to the deepest pits underwater, the soldier could feel his arms and legs become mint jelly. The strange orb creatures had invaded the spaces underwater, as well? Was he dreaming? Surely, none of this was real. But, reality slapped him in the face. There was no way any of this was in his imagination. Everything in front of him was the truth, guaranteed.

Groups around the sea ville guiding him towards the root of the problems, the early adult gulped. Dark aura surrounding the aliens in a closed circle, everything added up to three and was divided by zero. The monsters, something was off about them. Scythe still on him, the young soldier prepared himself to land a hit of a lifetime.

Orb creatures rolling on the ground as if they were playing some sort of game, the early adult broke out into a cold sweat. Enemies speeding off like blue hedgehog that could run at the speed of sound, the soldier swore he was seeing quadruple as every enemy blistered around the melusine's hidden paradise world.

Hitting the tip of the scythe on the ground, the aliens shook up the situation in a matter of moments. But, as everything unraveled itself, monsters slapped into one another. Speed dying into a snail's pace, the hyena readied the scythe. But, the side odds were never in his favor.

Shields up like a colorful meteor creature, the hyena attempted with all his might to slash through their defenses. But, such attempt was futile. Unable to pierce through the soldier could feel his willpower drain as the battle droned on. If he had a claymore right about now, the battle would have been over yesterday by now.

Knowing he had no choice but to summon a flower fiend, the wretched Windwheel Aster joined the party. Providing silent commands to the plant he did not wish to allegiance himself with, vines slapped the alien life forms for many seconds unaccounted for. Shields ready to crack, the blade prepared the final countdown.

Thirty more strikes vanquishing the aliens one after another, the early adult took a deep breath. Had the first installment in the alien battle been done and dusted? Melusine informing him there were more worse ones exuding dark energy in the waters towards the northern underwaters of the village, the citizen of the village lead the way.

Dropping down to the seabed beneath the village, Brume and Éclater snored their lives away as if they were breathing in unison to one another. Duo sleeping around as chaos brewed around them, the early adult slapped his hand over his swimming goggles. What an embarrassing sight. Were these two twins? The hyena did not know, but couldn't help but feel the two of them shared all their braincells.

Alien lifeforms in the waters below defeated with a swipe of an aquatic blade, the early adult could not help but ponder. Were there other ways to attack underwater? Spotting multiple strange blue creatures adorning a symbol on the ocean floor, the hyena supposed there was no way to find such out.

Hearing the sound of water cannons ready to blow, the early adult could feel the world drain around him. The seas beneath the surface had bombs? He needed to dodge them to the best of his ability. But, as he prepared to do some, peculiar ammunition threw itself out from its house.

Orb aliens releasing themselves from the pit of the launcher, the hyena prepared himself. Surely, if he were to strike while they moved through the cannon, they would be removed from the picture. Preparing himself, the water blade was ready to strike from afar. Monster within distance, the weapon set its sights high.

Strategy kicking into full swing, the alien casualties list grew once more. Cannons out of commission one after another, the early adult was pushed upwards towards the next surface area. Nothing but a lonely place awaiting him, orb creatures surrounded themselves besides the red crystals lying around everywhere.

Swiping his scythe upon the minerals of the place declared as lonely, the creatures had become one with the water beneath them. Red energy engulfing the creatures after twenty sweeps, a wave of tiredness flowed through the hyena. Slapping his cheeks, the chimera headed for the next bed of water. There was no time to be tired, he had to get rid of the aliens and their dark energy.

Dropping down to the northern seas, enemies had been cleared out one after another. Eastward path slain of all their aliens, the hyena kept going upon the northern trail as the technological diving suit thrusted him upon the path more travelled. Reaching the area as north as the village could go, danger awaited.

Creatures spinning around with a blade exterior harming melusines around every corner, the hyena's blood had begun to boil. The enemies were bringing the innocent citizens into the mix? This was war. He had to get rid of them, this instant. Blades clashing for minutes on end, the spar readied itself to cull in favor of the chimera.

Army around the edges slain as the hours grew by, the early adult could feel himself loop back towards the area he found himself in when he first arrived in this area. The warm place he had first descended to, was it getting much warmer? But, his question had an immediate answer.

Cannons making themselves known throughout the area, the early adult gulped. Where had all these new obstacles come from? He knew, no matter what, he had to get rid of them, or anyone who were to ever dive here when he wasn't around would be brought into harms way.

Red crystals everywhere once again, the early adult could not help but wonder. Aiming the mineral's blades at the new obstacles in the corner, could such break them? He knew he had to give such a try. But, as the scythe missed the mark multiple times, a white flag readied to wave itself.

Knowing he could not give up, the hyena placed himself from a diagonal angle. Mineral blade getting closer with every attempt, the chimera kept going. First cannon eventually vanquished, the rest of the harmful obstacles were removed from the equation after thirty strikes of trial and error.

Job within the warmer waters feeling complete, the soldier kept walking north. But, such stroll halted, in an instant. Rosy portal devouring him in one fell swoop, a blinding light engulfed the soldier. Closing his eyes, a peculiar pink room awaited him as he opened his eyes.

Hearing the whispers of someone saying nice to meet you, the hyena blinked. Where had he been taken to, and who was greeting him? But, such question had no answer on display. Whispers looping on repeat that it was nice to meet him, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Who was that voice? They needed to show themselves right away.

Present received as though he asked for it, a large meka crackling with electricity sped off towards him. Seeing such, everything around the soldier was ready to rot. A robot was underwater? He was in trouble, for sure. He was in jeopardy, without a shadow of a doubt.

Mechanical enemy tossing alien orbs his way, the early adult let out a pained scream. Was this robotic monster teaming up with the spherical lifeforces of otherworldly origins? He was in trouble. There was no way he would be able to get any hits. He was screwed on tighter than an oil bulb, for sure.

Bed of water an electrical trap, the hyena's diving suit thrusted off towards the opposite direction. Another round of conducted waters? He needed to be more careful where he leaped going forward. But, such proved itself to be far more difficult than two people born in late November getting along with one another. Meka coming towards him feet first, the metallic legs punted him across the pink room of isolation.

Tossed around for minutes on end, electricity engulfed the room further. Alien creatures spinning around looking ready to cut water, the early adult attempted to send the orb creatures flying back towards the direction they came. Robot legs kicking him a new one for the second time, the static grew.

Enemy readying the signal, the spherical orbs from another world readied themselves to come towards the hyena. Water blade soon prepared, the chimera closed his eyes. The monsters, he had to propel them back into the meka's body of mechanical marvels. Dodge and deflect, he had to be ready to send the attack back.

Opening his eyes as the orbs were ready, the soldier thrusted two paces back. Alien about to make contact with his short submerged body, the water blade and the enemy exchanged pleasantries with one another. Boomeranged back towards the attacker, the object smoked up into bits of scrap metal.

Fight closing itself up into a gift package, the hyena took a moment of reprieve. But the Fatui's work was never done. Blue door portal opening in front of him, the early adult stepped inside the entranceway. Just how much further down did this undersea world go? It had to have an end sooner or later.

Finding himself in a space unknown to him adorning crumbling pathways and a dark violet sky, the hyena let out a growl. Why did the color purple have to follow him wherever he went? He was quite sick of seeing such a color. If he were to ever become a god, he would delete such shade from everywhere in Teyvat.

Empty void inhabited by absolutely no one, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Where was he? But, such thoughts were cut short as the hooded figures shown themselves beside of the platforms. Eyes meeting their pitch black faceless void, the nobodies soon made a run for it.

Seahorses dropped along the pathway, a realization had washed over the hyena. Those hooded strangers, were they the ones responsible for the sea creatures and aliens causing problems in the underwater village end Elynas? If such were the case, he needed to face them head on.

Strangers running farther away from his line of sight, the early adult prepared his borrowed weapon. Maybe if he vanquished all of their pets they would show themselves. Resolute on his decision, the hyena's scythe swayed back and forth like a pendulum. First part of the army handled, another awaited along the platforms.

Knowing that he had to defeat the rest of the monsters before they were to plague Merusea Village forever, the early adult's weapon kept the strikes going. Letting out a tired sigh, the tiny dragons of the sea world deflated like a balloon. Gifts one after another returned to their sender of death, the exit was getting closer with every step.

Reaching an unknown room with the exit door in the corner, the hyena readied himself to leave the area. But, such exit was halted as the sound of a blubberbeast echoing a call that went nowhere bounced off and around the room. Mysterious hooded people emerging from the shadows as the sonic waves left, the strangers readied to run once more.

"Run, you gotta run!" one of the hooded strangers shouted. "Before the Fatui here catches oneself!"

"Fatui, you are dimwitted for trying to stop our project!" the other hooded stranger shouted. "Oh, well! This beast will be headed for the village soon!" But, as the stranger said stuff, they threw themselves in the door portal.

Hooded people removing themselves from the dimension's clutches, the early adult's eyes opened wide at the blubberbeast floating around, the sound of a ticker echoed on the walls. Seeing a countdown on the beast's belly, the hyena screamed. The creature, it was about to head for Merusea Village, and blow. He needed to get rid of it before such were to happen, for sure.

Timer ticking with every second, the hyena prepared himself. The Melusine, the lazy sea lion duo, he needed to protect them from the monster. Surely, if he were to let it get loose back to Merusea Village, the explosion would wipe their settlement off the map. Such could not happen. He needed to get in gear.

Blubberbeast and hyena exchanging blows with one another back and forth, sweat poured down the hyena's brow. This aquatic creature, it was quite the skilled fighter. Time ticking downward faster as the seconds paraded in a straight line fashion, the chimera's water blade was private enemy number one.

Timer hitting thirty, the pressure was on. Water blade barely doing any damage, the hyena kept the momentum going. Any second now, and the beast would decimate the Merusea Village. Such could not happen, guaranteed. The Melusine, they would not appreciate their home being gone.

Fifteen seconds beeping down, the early adult yelped. It was the final countdown. Any second now, and the monster would transport itself to the undersea world beyond the unknown dimension. Blocking the door as the timer reached zero, the creature had become chunks of edible fish, in an instant.

Piece of paper dropping from the debris leaving a singular message that "Fontaine is now our playground, the early adult could feel his heart skip four beats. Whose playground, the hooded strangers? They could play games with him all they'd like, but he wouldn't play along.

Entering through the door, the undersea village had soon been returned to. Seven other robot toys handed to the soldier one after another, the count soon totaled to ten. Knowing his jobs was done, the early adult's diving suit of mechanical marvels brought him back up towards the surface.

Agent waiting for him by the riverside, the bag full of robotics was ripped off his back like a sack of candy. Subordinate counting every single commodity one after another, the chimera froze up. If even one were missing, he was burned toast. But, the hyena swore he could see a smirk appear underneath the mask.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent said, pride evident in his voice. "Hand over your diving equipment."

Doing as instructed, the early adult removed the heavy layers of machinery from his small body. Feeling a weight off his shoulders, bliss flowed through the soldier. He was no longer a rock, he was a feather. Agent telling him his job was done and to return to Snezhnaya immediately, the soldier removed the proxy orb from his back pocket.

Military barracks waypoint soon highlighted, the hyena closed his eyes. Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, the early adult walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor as the events of the day formed dark clouds inside him.

The hooded strangers, just who were they, and why were they starting to cause problems around all of Teyvat? Were they from somewhere beyond the seven nations? He could not help but feel something about them was rather otherworldly. But, as he thought such, a spark popped off in his brain.

The mysterious people, he had to defeat them, end them, destroy them; give them pain. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? Harming others was wrong. He should never even consider such outcome. Pushing such thoughts aside, another question arose from the ashes.

Fontaine, was it having some sort of energy problem? He could not help but feel that the hooded people were ready and waiting to take advantage of fan incoming energy crisis within the Hydro Nation of Justice. But, as the thoughts kept rolling, a wave of fatigue flowed through him. He was overthinking it. Fontaine surely was not about to have any sort of energy issues.

Letting out a yawn, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform put away, as well, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, the early adult closed his eyes. But, as the world of sleep invited him back in, one final thought wrapped vines around him.

Those hooded people, next time he sees them, he won't let them get away.

Chapter 4: Poisson's Energies, Conches, Shipwreck; Pearl Metallica.

Chapter Text

"Poisson? No. This can't be.
Oh, Your Majesty,
I am asking for you to reconsider.
So, please, reconsider.
So please, reconsider.
Of all places, why here?
No, this can't be?

Why here? Why
Here? Isn't Poisson
A fancy Fontaine way
To say poison?

A city full of poison, a land full of

Toxins. No, please. Reconsider.
Even if I am not allowed to oppose, please,
Reconsider. Please
Reconsider, please reconsider.
I'm begging you, Your Majesty.
For this place, I am certain,
Yes, I know without a doubt.
It's poisonous. There's
No way, it's right in the name.
Get me away from there.

No, it's too late my fate has been sealed
And I must go straight to Poison City.
Maybe it won't be so bad,
Even if it's a toxic place to be.

I need to quell my fears,
That much is the truth.

Maybe I'm overreacting.
Even so, that Melusine,
As I recall she said
No one takes the Poisson line.
Something there has gone wrong.

Poisson or not, I have to go there.
Obviously, I don't know what
Is poisonous there. The
Sea? The air?
Over there, I will just
Need to tread carefully.

Don't step into the water
Err with caution.
For now, that is all
I can do. Be as cautious as I can be.
No matter what, that
Is key. Caution is mandatory.
The Tsaritsa, she's already sent her orders,
Everything has been set.
Looks like her mind is made up the moment she decides.
Your Majesty, why is it

That you want me to
Head everywhere?
All these years, I've been
Through the nations.

Seriously, I don't understand,
Cannot fathom why.
After all these years, I have seen
Rather a lot of this world.
Even so, I'm not complaining.
Seeing this world is a plus.

Maybe this mission will not be bad,
Even if Poisson is a poisonous place."

Four days had passed since the hyena collected small robots from the Melusines in Merusea Village. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Diplomatic affairs storming on in Dornman Port for ninety-six hours, nothing had been out of the ordinary. Knowing that, if he did not do work, even for a moment, he would meet his end, the chimera remained loyal.

Upon waking up for the morning, the early adult rubbed his eyes for minutes on end. Reaching for the lenses, the soldier placed his glasses over his heterochromatic eyes. World of sight granted to him once more, the chimera rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier's uniform glued itself onto his partially human person, the chimera could not help but wonder. Her Majesty, just what was it that she wanted from Fontaine? All of these object he's had to collect over the past couple weeks, just what did she need them for? But, he supposed he could not question such; it was forbidden.

Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, his second favorite rabbit set adorned his hair and ears. But, as the sharp ends made their wrath known, the soldier stared down at the rest of his collection. Was turning his prized possession into weapons what he truly wanted? Rational brain on, at the moment, regret flowed through the hyena.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the chimera gazed at the barricaded window, for a moment. Was going back in time possible? But, the early adult stopped himself from thinking further on such subject. There was no such thing as time travel. If such existed, he would have heard stories about it outside of fiction.

Heelless shoes on, the early adult bit into his flavorless rations of sand. As he had done such, the early adult shook his head. All this ridiculous thoughts of nonsense flowing through him, he had to erase them from his mind immediately and focus on work. He was wasting time on such; the hourglasses' sand was down the middle.

Only meal of the day finished, the early adult walked around in a circle upon the ice cold floor. What could possibly be in store for him today? Would more diplomatic affairs of nothing await him? Diplomacy should die a dishonorable death. But, he knew he had to be ready for anything, no matter what.

Adjusting the buttons on his uniform, the soldier took a long, deep breath. Whatever awaited him today, he needed to prepare himself. Everything in order, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Any minute now, and the Agent would arrive with his orders, guaranteed.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march onward inexorably, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out; his workday was coming. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the hyena turned his attention to the door. The time had come for his workday of anything to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be heading to Poisson and the surrounding areas to collect metallic pearl deposits, conches and gather loot from shipwrecks." A bag shook from behind him with a fervor. All the energy in the world should belong to Her Majesty.

The hyena tilted his head as the word loot bounced around his eardrums. What in the world did Her Majesty need any of this for? Why did she want useless undersea trash? Surely, absolutely nothing of value would be gained from receiving pearls, conches and treasure from under the ocean floor.

But, as the word Poisson slashed his ears with a dagger, the early adult's knees shook. Poisson? He was going to a toxic waste heap? There was no way he would survive such a place. Her Majesty, had he disappointed her? If he were being sent to a place of poison as punishment, he supposed he deserved it if his work had not been sufficient enough.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You'll be heading to Poisson to gather pearls and conches for Her Majesty!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "We don't have time for this dawdling, soldier! Get a move on!"

The early adult flinched as the word Poisson had been said again. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for thinking. If he kept Her Majesty waiting, his life would be over, in an instant. Slapping his knuckles on his chest, the hyena took a long deep breath.

"Yes, sir," the chimera responded autonomously. Poison or not, he had to be ready for anything.

"Good, soldier. You'll be needing your diving equipment for this mission," the Agent responded, supplies slammed firmly on his subordinate's back. "Let's go." Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the wrist into a squeeze tight enough to bruise. As the escort to Fontaine began, the hyena stared at the walls.

Is he about to be poisoned?

***

"Could there be some pirate revolution going around?
On the bulletin board,
My youngest sibling, Baron told me, 'People have been requesting for an
Increasingly high amount of volumes of pirate clothing be sold at our boutique.'
Now, as usual, they go off and say being a pirate is an unrealistic
Goal. Not quite

Sure where some of these requests have come from.
Over the past few weeks, we have been donating free clothes to the poor
Over in Poisson and in the underground city.
Nobody down there seems interested in the pirate life.

These requests come off as quite
Odd to me. I should ask Earl if there's been

Anyone asking for pirate wear lately.

Baron has stated the requests for such
Outfits is beginning to double, and the handwriting looks to be the same.
Unless they are mistaken,
These requests might all be from one person.
I guess if there's someone who really wants it, it'd be
Quite rude for me to refuse. After all, this is the
Ultimate boutique in all of Teyvat!
Everyone of any size, shape, ideology is free to come here.

Now, Baron is trying to stop me, giving me that
Ever favorite speech of theirs, 'Starting
A pirate wear line just because one person keeps
Requesting it? Malika, that's ridiculous.

You know it's not going to sell. Have you considered it could just be a prank?'
Oh, dear sibling, profit is only one-third of the equation. It is
Undeniable that it could be some sort of

Ploy, or prank, but I shall not turn a blind eye.
If someone wants a specific style of clothing, we'll just make it!
Release it, put if on a trial run.
And donate the rest to the poor.
Take chances, fashion is a tough world of
Evolving trends. I know that,
We've been in this business for years.
Even though it could be one person, or just
A prank to get attention, I'd
Rather not turn a blind eye. For, I Malika, run the best boutique around!"

Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint, the early adult gazed at the Romaritime Harbor from afar. Was this now his bases of operations during Fontaine missions? He supposed such was the case whether he liked it, or not. Agent dragging him down the hill, the soldier stared at the roaring falls from afar.

Boat summoned out of nowhere, the hyena had been placed into the wooden vessel. Removed from the gripping prison, the vehicle of Dendro creation cruised forward upon the waves. Romaritime Harbor getting closer with every stroke, the soldier gazed at the other boats floating upon the water.

Harbor continuing to get closer with every stroke of the rudders, the chimera could not help but wonder. Did a world of poison await him? Poisson, surely, it was the Fontaine language word for a highly toxic place to explore. Boat rocking a smidgeon as he thought such, the early adult stood still.

Vessel almost ready to be docked, the early adult closed his eyes. He supposed it would be best to find out if such were the case. He knew, poisonous place or not, he had no choice but to go there. Boat soon docked, the soldier expelled himself from paradise. Stepping foot onto the harbor, the early adult walked towards the staircase.

Agent soon informing him he would have to find a way to Poisson without teleporting, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why was his map being restricted lately? The Teleport Waypoint Proxy Map had spoiled him rotten. Subordinate informing him seconds later he would be staying in Fontaine until his mission was complete, the early adult nodded. He supposed he was used such outcome by now.

Taking the glass lift after ascending the staircase, the early adult could not help but wonder. Poisson, maybe he should ask around about it before heading there. Box taking him upwards, the young soldier headed towards the Aquabus station. Pressing the button on the sign in the corner, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left.

Not spotting anyone around the harbor aside from a man on his pirate ship, the early adult blinked. Why was it so quiet here? Was this area not as busy when the Archon was not around? But, he supposed he was overthinking it. Surely, he had just arrived at an earlier time than anyone else.

Aquabus arriving after ten minutes, the familiar Melusine from last time commented that he seemed to be taking this line a lot lately, the soldier blinked. He supposed he had been taking the water railways each time he had been sent to Fontaine. Would such method of travel be forbidden soon, as well? Told for the third ride they would be headed to the Court of Fontaine, the early adult seated himself.

Vehicle soon cruising the waters all by itself, the early adult gazed at the scenery around him. The eastern side of Fontaine, was it full of poison, as well? If such were the case, he needed to tread carefully, guaranteed. The choice was not his, if he wished to keep on living.

As the automatic aquatic tour bus passed beside Merusea Village, the soldier turned his head towards the lake from afar. Melusines, just what were their functions within Fonatine's society? Seeing a few around the court city in full militaristic guard uniforms, the hyena held such thought.

Melusine tour guide saying once again that they were passing through Poisson and that most people do not take that line, the hyena could feel a chill run down his spine. The Melusine, should he ask her if Poisson is poisonous? But, the chimera held such urge to inquire about such. There was no way he could interrupt her while she was on the job, that would be incredibly rude of him.

Vehicle soon stopping in its stationed location, the hyena removed himself from the vessel. Aquabus remaining stationary, the early adult exited into the main city. But, as he had begun walking, a conclusion he had never wished to reach had begun to crawl through his mind like a worm.

The annoying penguins, could they have known about whether Poisson was poisonous or not? He supposed it was worth a try asking about such. The general citizens of the area, asking them would only be a waste of time. They would not answer, guaranteed. Regrets flowing through him almost immediately, the early adult had begun walking.

Heading towards the hotel pathway, the early adult let out a sigh. Why was he even considering asking the pesky penguin chimeras? They were thorns in his side twice over. He was about to be in for a tiring time as soon as his inquiry hit any of their ears. But, he supposed he had no other choice, he was already heading southwest.

Multiple stores passed through as he kept walking, the soldier held back the urge to shrug. He was only heading to the boutique to ask the inquiry, then he would be on his way. None of this meant anything more than that. If the biggest thorn in his side amongst the three were to act like they were a future couple waiting to happen, he would ignore such advances.

Eventually reaching the boutique after ten minutes of walking, the early adult took a long deep breath. He was only here to ask one singular question, then be on his way to the possible city of poison. Opening the door to the fashion empire, the hyena stepped forward.

But, as he stepped foot into the room of fancy clothing, not a single soul but generic nobody customers staring at pirate outfits and Kaiser had been on the main retail floor. Original pesky thorn in his side adorning no makeup and the plainest clothes he had ever seen, a chill had run down the chimera's spine. Was he truly in the presence of Kaiser Gefroren? Eyes with no glitter to them giving him a look, the chimera returned a gaze in kind.

"Huh. It's you again," Kaiser said, words emotionless and tired "Are you looking for someone?"

Hearing the major amount of fatigue in Kaiser's voice, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just what was going on with him? He had not mouthed off about beauty at all. Taking note he had been wearing long sleeves, as well, the soldier cut such thoughts off. There was no time to be thinking about such things. Giving him a nod, the penguin soon continued.

"They're downstairs," Kaiser said.

Bowing a thank you, the early adult headed for the staircase in the corner. But, as he reached the apartment underneath the clothing establishment, something of peculiar note caught the hyena's attention. Pesky penguin trio treading a line of thread through a peculiar sewing device the hyena prepared to turn himself around. Were they busy? Maybe he should just leave. But, Earl's eyes were soon on him.

Hearing the sound of footsteps pattering down their stairwell, Earl turned his head. Was Kaiser taking a break from his shift? But, as soon as he saw the owner of the steps, his eyes had sparkles in them. Siorc standing in the corner of the final stair, his heart had begun to flutter. Did he come to see him? He wanted to hold a wedding and become his wife right now.

"Hi there, Siorc!" Earl greeted excitably. "Did you come to see me?" He let out a giggle. Archons, if he wasn't so busy, he'd ask him out on a date right now!

The early adult let out an exasperated sigh. Did Earl really think he had come here just to see him? What a laughable assumption. Even if he were the last person in all of Teyvat, he would never come running to see him, or any other penguin chimera, for that matter. He had gotten the wrong impression. But, he knew he had to ask about Poisson's status of being poisonous and nose his way out of here. Taking a deep breath, he let the inquiry out.

"Is Poisson poisonous?" Siorc asked, voice shaking. If Her Majesty were listening, he would be dead, for sure.

Baron rose an eyebrow as they looked up from their sewing machine. Was this young man serious right now? Did he seriously just ask if Poisson was poisonous? Did he not know Poisson meant fish? How ridiculous. Fatui were all fools. This needed to be corrected right this instant.

"No? Poisson means fish," Baron said, sighing. "Why did you assume such ridiculous factor?" But, Malika soon chimed in.

"Baron, darling, he's likely not familiar with the Fontaine language," Malika responded. She then turned towards Siorc. "There hasn't been any toxicity reports ever recorded there, as far as I'm aware." But, Earl soon interrupted.

"You're going to Poisson?" Earl asked.

Everyone's information coming at him at once, the hyena processed the words carefully. Poisson meant fish? Was it a fisher's port town, or something? He supposed he would find out soon enough. Told the area was not poisonous, a heavy weight dropped off his shoulders. Such was a relief to be had, for sure. Nodding, the hyena prepared to stage his exit.

Seeing Siorc nod, Earl's eyes sparkled further. He was heading to Poisson? Then, he certainly needed someone to guide him there. Did he still not know his way around the nation? Earl, to the rescue. Maybe he could convince the Aquabus Line to make an exception of not using the Poisson line track, just for today.

"Poisson is in the Belleau Region! I'll take you there!" Earl exclaimed, he then turned his head towards Malika. "Malika, may I take my work break right now?"

"Yes, you may," Malika responded in a slight authoritative tone. "But, upon your return, in exchange, you will be taking Kaiser's shift."

"Sounds fair to me," Earl replied. "I'll have the Aquabus make a special stop in Poisson. I'll be back in an hour!"

Earl heading for the stairs first, the hyena stepped in front of him. Ascending the staircase, questions buzzed about around the boutique about the new pirate fashion line. Everyone asking for a shirt in their size, the chimera gazed at the outfits in question. Was the pirate lifestyle suddenly in fashion? What a peculiar way of life to emulate. But, he supposed he did not know much about the trends of clothing to comment.

Highly acclaimed clothing store soon exited, the soldier followed behind the penguin thorn in his side in silence. Reversed back towards the Aquabus, a special request had been made of the Melusine tour guide. Semiaquatic person stating she would have the vehicle stop in the tunnel, the second tour of the day was ready to begin.

Aquabus soon riding the railways southward, the early adult could not help but wonder. Why did Earl always feel the need to escort him somewhere? But, he supposed he did not mind having a guide show him where the location was. Teleporting directly to his destination was forbidden.

Melusine tour guide pointing out the opera house being obscured by many other buildings, the soldier turned his attention towards the attraction. The opera area wasn't too far off from here. It was a small world after all. Tour guide lauding she wanted to ditch work and head there right now, the early adult's jaw dropped straight open. What an incredibly bold statement to be made, for sure.

Vehicle continuing towards the tunnel, the early adult took a long deep breath. The next destination, Poisson Tunnel. He needed to prepare himself at all costs. Soon, the place of many mysterious would be upon him. The underwater junk Her Majesty wanted will be in his clutches.

Tour guide stating they've now reached Poisson Tunnel and to be careful when jumping, the early adult's heart skipped four beats. He had to jump? The Aquabus wasn't taking him to the area directly? Earl soon pointing towards a ship off in the corner, the pest's gloves grabbed a hold of his hand.

Taking the leap of faith hands interlinked, the hyena deployed his wind glider. If he were to fall onto the ground from this height without taking proper precautions, he and the penguin would be gravely injured, in seconds. Making his landing with extra weight in tow, Earl soon lead the way once more.

Earl soon escorting him towards the peculiar ship in the corner, the hyena blinked. Was he really in Poisson right now? He could not help but feel the place had been different than he had been imagining. Guided towards a walkway, the penguin of many annoyances turned to look at him.

"Take that ladder over there, and you should be in Poisson," Earl explained, pointing at the walkway. "If you need anything else, come to the boutique again, and one of us will help you." Turning around, he headed back towards the Aquabus railways.

Seeing a rushing waterfall beside the ladder, the early adult gulped. What world was he about to be heading to? Descending the metallic walkway, the soldier prepared himself for anything, and everything. While he knew the area was not poisonous, the unknown was its own sort of toxins to behold.

Soon reaching an underground city with metallic walkways everywhere the eye could see and large ship off in the distance, with multiple stories connected by bridges from side to side, the soldier wondered. What about this place was fishy? But, maybe some of the metallic pearls were around the area on the ground level. It was time to take a look.

Turning his attention to the brown walkways down below him, the soldier kept his eyes on the floors and multiple people in the area. Generic nobodies dressed far different than the rich people in the Court of Fontaine, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. The Hydro Nation of Justice, had there been multiple wealth classes here? He could not help but feel that Mora had a pyramid to represent the multiple different levels in this nation.

Figuring he should take a look to see if metallic pearls could have been sitting by the waterfall, the early adult turned his heelless shoes off towards the direction he came. But, no clamshells containing their inorganic children had been near the pools of constantly roaring waters.

Heading back towards the area, gears turned in the soldier's head as he kept looking at the ground beneath him. The metallic pearls, what could they even look like? But, he supposed he should keep thinking about clamshells. Surely, if he looked hard enough, they would be somewhere.

But, as he kept searching the area, someone's shoulder brushed against his. Not hearing an excuse me, the early adult eyebrows twitched. How incredibly rude of this person to not apologize. But, he knew he needed to calm down. Maybe the person didn't see him. But, another storm was soon brewing as the stranger moved away.

Young lady with red hair and glasses running towards him, the early adult legs shook. Who was this person, and why were they speeding his way? Young lady stopping the brakes as her arms wobbled, her bespectacled eyes were soon peering through the opened zipper on his bag behind him. Seeing such, the early adult held back the urge to growl. Why were her eyes touching his things? Index finger pointing with excitement, the growl was about to release itself.

"You! Join my pirate crew!" the strange girl shouted with gusto. But, almost in an instant, a group of two people ran towards her, joining the conversation.

"Aigre! What do we always tell you? Don't talk to strangers!" A young lady scolded. But, the other person soon joined in.

"Bain, she's not a child anymore," the other stranger said, slightly irritated tone of voice. "Don't act like her mother."

"Kali, I wouldn't have to if she didn't wander off with creepy men all the time claiming they're pirates!" the stranger barked back. But, the other person soon sighed.

"Good point, I guess," the other stranger responded. She then turned towards the one called Aigre. "Aigre, please stop talking to strangers." She then placed the palm of her hand on her forehead.

The hyena backed four steps away. What had he just gotten himself into? Why was the young woman trying to recruit him into some sort of pirate crew? Was she secretly a part of some sort of cult that used the term pirate as a coverup? The young lady, she said this person named Aigre often got caught up with men whom were strangers. Such was not good, in the slightest. He knew, that, no matter what, some people had malicious intent.

Knowing the group in front of him would be here awhile, the soldier turned towards the strangers. Standing to the left looking ready or a two hour long scolding session had been a young woman slightly shorter than him. Messy, spiky pink hair with red ribbons on the edges that looked like a bubble bath formula, Siorc turned his attention towards her eyes. Bright red eyes looking stern as ever, the early adult gazed at her outfit. Light blue striped sailor outfit with a small yellow ribbon and baggy black pants, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was she just some human sailor? If she was, he would be on his way and let the group be. Ending his examination, he turned towards the next person.

Standing to the other side with her arms folded on her waist had been a young woman about the same height as him. Long dark red hair going down to about her backside with red eyes to match, the chimera could not help but wonder. Were these three ladies related to each other? He supposed they could have been sisters or cousins. Fancy green Fontaine outfit with coattails behind them, and deep fanged tooth sticking out of her lip like a cartoon drawing, the hyena turned his attention to the final person.

Hopping in the center of the three girl had been a young woman slightly shorter than the spiky pink haired lady glaring at her in the corner. Long pinkish red hair pulled back into a ponytail with a fuzzy scrunchy towards the end reaching her waist, and eyes of the same color covered with cheap looking black framed glasses, the chimera gazed at her outfit. Ragged pink clothing and black boots with many holes in them, the hyena blinked. Why was this person so roughed up? But, he supposed it was no business of his.

Recalling the young lady referred to as Aigre demanded he should join her pirate crew, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Become a member of a pirate crew? Absolutely not. Did he look like someone who wanted to wear a straw hat and commit high seas crimes? Absolutely not. Whatever she was a part of, he would not be joining her. But, the young lady soon pointed at him once more and waved her arms around as she looked at him.

"Don't listen to my nosy sisters!" Aigre exclaimed, waving her hands around rapidly like a child. She then turned towards Bain and Kali. "I'm talking to a fellow pirate right now!"

"You're not a pirate!" Bain and Kali shouted in unison.

Feeling Aigre grip his wrist tightly, the hyena's eyes pulsated. What in the world was she doing? Why was she gripping him with such immense force? Lip quivering as she clamped down harder, the early adult let out a tiny sigh. She was planning on running away with him as prisoner, wasn't she?

"Yes I am! I'm a pirate!! Shut up!" Aigre shouted at the top of her lungs. "I'll take him to my ship!"

Young lady beginning to drag him forward, the early adult held back the urge to scream. What in the world was happening? Why was this young woman dragging him off somewhere? A pirate ship, where? Romaritime Harbor? There was no way she would be able to reach all the way there without getting tired.

Dragged out of Poisson as Aigre climbed up the ladder with his wrist still squeezed into a tight lock, the shouts of the two sisters telling the young lady to stop, let go of him, don't bring a stranger into this the early adult tried to break free from the tight grip around him. But, such was impossible as the grip only got tighter.

Girl calling back she's not stopping, they can't make her, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Just how old was this lady? Was she truly a grown woman? But, he supposed everyone had their own senses of mental maturity. Sped through a sea of fields of green everything blurred around him.

Ladies again calling out that Aigre could be interrupting someone's work and to let go of him right now, the soldier flinched. Had the two of them already seen his uniform? If such were the case, he was in trouble, for sure. If they knew he were a member of the Fatui, they would triple their warnings over the hills and far away at any given moment.

Aigre screaming back that Mr. Glasses didn't look busy at all, he was just wandering around like a freeloader, the hyena's ears twitched. Is that how he looked to people around Fontaine, an unemployed deadbeat? What an awful first impression. He was most certainly not a jobless freeloader.

Spotting an ocean bed off in the distance as Aigre gripped on his wrist even tighter, the soldier let out a sigh. Was she going to continue dragging him despite her sisters continuously protesting? But, he supposed she had no intentions of listening no matter what. He supposed whenever she stopped running, he would inform her he was not interested.

Young woman parking the breaks in the corner of a beach, the hyena prepared the two letter word of rejection. If she were about to ask him to join her pirate crew once more, he would not be a part of such, whatsoever. But, as his thoughts raced through, the stranger's voice broke the sound barrier.

"My ship's down here!" Aigre exclaimed, pointing at the ocean bed beside her. "Let's go!!"

As Aigre pointed down to the ocean bed, the hyena recalled one of his orders. The Agent, he had told him he had to gather loot from shipwrecks. He supposed, he could pretend to play along with the pirate game, if her so called ship was underwater. Knowing she expected an answer, the soldier stuck up his right index finger. But, as he removed his diving equipment, questions only a child would ask came his way.

"What?? Why do you need a minute? Let's go now!" Aigre shouted, waving her hands around.

"Aigre, not everyone is a chimera like we are!" Bain scolded. "He definitely cannot easily breathe underwater like we can!" But, a loud, hissing whisper overtook the area.

"Don't say the c word to her, I beg you," Kali whispered in a harsh tone.

As the hyena put his diving suit over his partially human person, the chimera could not help but wonder. What in the world was going on with this family? Was saying the word chimera profanity in their household? How strange. But, he supposed now all chimeras wanted to be associated with such label that made them seem different from humans. Oxygen tank soon on his backside, but completely crooked, everything was on. But, as he prepared to play along with the pirate game, shouts overtook the area.

"No, no, no! I'm not a chimera, I'm a mermaid!" Aigre cried, shaking her fists. "Captain Vert will be mad if he hears you say that!"

Hearing the girls in the corner groan, the early adult closed his eyes. The buttons, he needed to sync them with his brainwaves, like last time. But, a force of distraction pulled him out of it, for a moment. These three, what kind of chimeras were they? He supposed he was about to find out.

Three sisters jumping down into the water bed, the early adult took a long deep breath as a spark crackled in his brain. Stepping towards the water, the diving suit thrusted him downward. Finding himself in a deep blue ocean world with watery hills everywhere, the soldier gazed at the woman speedily swimming in front of him.

Bain, Kali and Aigre adorning sea lion bodies, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could the trio have been related to the pranksters in Merusea Village, and those other sea lions he had seen one time back in Mondstadt? But, he knew there was no time to think about such things. He had to catch up with them right away.

Reaching a trench as his diving suit thrust him northward, a peculiar sight caught the hyena's eyes. Strange ship that looked like a misty phantom, the early adult titled his head as Aigre's flippers pointed at it. Was that her so called pirate ship? If such were the case, he supposed he would continue to pretend to play along, for now.

"There's my ship!" Aigre shouted. "After it!!"

Aigre swimming off towards the possible ghost ship, Bain and Kali sped after her begging her to wait. But, such moment of patience never came. Phantom boat speeding up as the seconds raged onward, Aigre sped up her swim speed. Distance between him and she only getting farther, the hyena attempted to catch up with all his might.

Group of three even further away as the boat kept going, the soldier closed his eyes. Faster, he had to have his automatic swimsuit have him swim faster. Slight acceleration of speed coming his way as the thoughts and actions synced with one another, the early adult attempted to catch up once more.

Ship from the possible afterlife doing a turn, Aigre had only begun to go faster. Bain and Kali shouting at her to slow down once more, the early adult shook his wet head. There was no way she was going to do so. She was probably going faster just to spite them. What a childish action, if so.

Spotting a strange machine beaming a light over the water with a machine minion swimming around, the early adult gulped. Fonatine's technology had even lived beneath the surface of the water? How strange. Surely, they would struggle with all their electrical circuits powering them.

Peculiar looking vines holding something inside them on the pathway as Aigre kept swimming faster, the early adult blinked through his goggles. The world under the sea was quite the fascinating spectacle. If he ever learned to swim on his own, he would like to explore further, for sure.

Ghost ship speeding off further through the world of blue, the early adult let the suit thrust him as fast as it were able to. But, as the other three's speed was unmatchable, the soldier could feel his equipment get sticky. Natural swimmers would always outclass ones who were not.

Moving along as the boat of many removed lives let out a toot of an invisible horn, blubberbeasts let out an echo with their throats. Soundwaves hitting walls in the corner, the hyena attempted with all his might to not scream. Why was the ocean getting so loud, of all of a sudden?

Spotting a platform in the corner, the phantom vehicle had begun to slow itself down. Passing by a peculiar looking glass house, the sea lion trio slowed down a smidgeon. Squeaking by the odd room of many mysterious, the early adult kept attempting to reach the ghost ship. Any minute now, and he'd be toe to flipper with the sea lion sisters.

Boat soon halting its movement beside a sea of green plants, the party of three far off ahead of him had stopped moving. Readying to catch up with the crowd, the early adult's suit continued thrusting him forward. But, as he reached the destination ever so closer, something of particular note stuck out to him.

Blond diver swimming beside the phantom ship, the early adult could not help but ponder. Was he roped into some sort of undersea mission by Her Majesty? Swimming towards him, the early adult gazed at the man's freckled face, for a moment. Eyes soon on him, as well, something had soon been handed off to him.

"Here," the blond diver said.

Handed an array of conch shells, the early adult blinked. The diver, he was definitely roped into this mission to collect undersea trash. placing the garbage into the diving bag behind his oxygen tank, the soldier spelled out thank you with his damp fingers. But, after a few minutes, Aigre let out a whine.

"Wait a sec, this isn't my ship!" Aigre whined.

Bain and Kali letting out deep throated groans, the early adult groaned inside his mind in tandem. After all this swimming, she had the nerve to say this wasn't hers? How annoying. This was absolutely ridiculous. She had to have been playing some sort of joke right now. If she were, it wasn't funny, in the slightest.

Blond diver informing him there was some loot on the phantom boat, the early adult placed himself onto the transparent ship. Scooping up whatever treasure he could find, the hyena shook his head. Was this really what Her Majesty wanted? She was in for an array of disappointment with all of the waste he was collecting.

Aigre swimming off towards the opposite direction as her sisters who were more like caretakers followed after her, the soldier moved towards the path he came. Where was she heading this time? He supposed while she was continuing to play her pirate game, he could continue to search for shipwrecks to collect their so called loot from.

Diver boy swimming off elsewhere, the hyena turned his head towards him, for a moment. He did not know why, but he could not help but feel bad for the young man. Whoever was giving him his orders, he was being strung along to collecting trash, just like him. But, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. There was no time to such thoughts. He needed to focus on finding apparent treasures, conches and pearls.

Hearing Kali say from a short distance that she can't believe Aigre swam all the way off to the Salacia Plain only to say that this wasn't her pirate ship, the soldier agreed from afar. Such was ridiculous, indeed. If all of this were some sort of joke, he would tell the young woman off, no questions asked.

Spotting the glass house once more, the soldier turned his attention towards it. Was it just his imagination, or were there bookshelves in there? If such were the case, he would need to come back here later just in case there were treasures locked behind the red doors.

Group of three in front continuously heading south, the soldier kept trailing behind. Why was this bespectacled sea lion still bothering with this game in the first place? Surely, she had to have been tired of this pirate ship joke by now. Didn't she have other things to do? But, he knew he could not say such. He had to keep playing along.

Party of three going towards a collection of destroyed ships, the soldier thrust the diving suit towards the debris. Collecting loot as the party in front of him kept going deeper downward, the soldier blinked of bewilderment from underneath his goggles. Was Aigre heading towards a hole? Wherever she was headed, this joke had to end.

Bain calling out that she is swimming out way too far, a defiant set of words had been fired back, in an instant. Kali saying to just follow her and scold her later, the early adult resynced his movements with the diving suit, thrusted downwards toward a hole, a small cave passageway had been upon him.

Group of three heading towards a surface, the hyena's suit prepared to thrust him upward. But as he was about to reach the surface world above, the early adult could feel an array of reservations flow through him. Was he about to be in yet another place with absolutely nothing? Maybe he should not have followed the sea lion trio in the first place.

Pressing upwards towards the surface, the early adult removed the oxygen tank from behind him. But, as he stepped towards the land, a multitude of surprises awaited him. Finding himself in an isolated place with a broken ship, the soldier could feel his heart skip four beats.

Watching Aigre run off to the ship of many destructions, the hyena could feel a pity cherry drop to the center of his stomach. Was this her pirate ship? Lady talking to invisible people, the early adult turned towards Bain and Kali. Uncomfortable looks on their faces, the early adult listened to her conversation. While he knew such was rude of him, curiosity had pushed a kitten into the bottom of the ocean.

"Captain Vert! Co-Captain Rouge, Navigator Bleu, Private Jaune, I have a new recruit!" Aigre exclaimed. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "That's great, Aigre, bring them over!" She then turned her head. "Of course, captain, right away! C'mon over, new recruit!" She then changed the pitch of her voice again. "He lookin' kinda scrawny. We gotter get some meat on his bones." She then turned her head once again. "Private, Jaune, we'll whip him up into shape!"

Stepping onto the broken ship, the early adult let out a sigh. Was he really doing this right now? He should have told her off like he planned to. But, no such words would leave his lips. Perhaps, just maybe, playing along one last time with her pirate game would end this once and for all. Aigre cheering as he introduced himself with a bow to invisible people, another excitable sound hit the broken boat.

"Yay! Welcome aboard, crewmate!" Aigre cheered. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Don't let us down, kiddo." She, once again turned her head. "You can count on him, Rouge!" She then changed the pitch of her voice a second time. "Welcome to our crew, lad."

Watching as Aigre kept on going, the early adult could not help but wonder. Did something happen to her in that past that caused her to want to live the life as a pirate forever? He did not know why, but he could not help but feel bad for her, if such were the case. He supposed he could continue to play along with her games if it was some sort of coping mechanism for something unknown. Taking a deep breath, words accidentally released themselves.

"I look forward to being aboard," the hyena accidentally said.

"See? I'm actually a pirate!" Aigre exclaimed. "My ship is real!" She then turned towards her new fellow crewmate. "Take all the treasures you'd like, crewmate! They're yours!"

Bain and Kali blinking rapidly to each other, the early adult titled his head. Were they shocked at this information being presented before them? Surely this wasn't the first time Aigre had gone off about her pirate shenanigans. But, perhaps, just maybe, she had never taken her actions this far before. But, the chimera knew it was not his business either way.

"That's enough, Aigre," Kali said. But, Bain soon took over the conversation.

"You've had enough fun for today, Aigre!" Bain interrupted. "We're going back to the surface, and..." But she did not finish that sentence. Taking a deep breath she returned to speaking. "Anyway, we're going back to Poisson."

Aigre reluctantly agreeing, the group of three dashed back towards the hole of which they came. Seeing such, the early adult blinked. How incredibly odd everything was just now. But, he supposed chimeras all had their own ways of dealing with their own problems. Stepping onto the broken ship, the hyena looked for any possible treasures he could locate.

Coming across sunken treasure and multiple conch shells, the soldier placed the loot into the back behind his oxygen tank. Not finding any other objects that looked like they mattered, the hyena took a long deep breath. It was time to return to the spot of which he came. But, as he prepared to go back upward, the diver stopped him.

"Are you here for the metallic pearls?" the blond diver asked.

Hearing such inquiry, the early adult nodded. Was he sent here to gather them, as well? Her Majesty had built quite the underwater team of one, if such were the case. Perhaps, just maybe, he knew the location of the objects. He supposed he was about to find out.

"Father has ordered us to collect them also," the blond diver responded, voice almost sounding robotic.

Blond diver letting out the word father, the hyena could not help but wonder. Who was this father? But, he supposed the diver worked under a completely different Fatui jurisdiction. He recalled his former practice partner telling him some of the Fatui worked under Harbingers or other soldiers of slightly higher positions than them. Keeping himself quiet, the early adult's diving suit soon thrust him upward.

Back at the beach, the early adult walked upon the northward path. The Agent, he was probably waiting for him at Poisson right about now. Gazing at the sky above him, the early adult almost bit off all his currently human nails. Had it already been late evening? He was in trouble if he were waiting for him. Eventually reaching the underground city of metallic walkways, the hyena took a deep breath.

But, as he walked around the area, the Agent was nowhere to be seen. Had he already left? Perhaps, just maybe, he should wait for him by the waterfall. But, as the hours passed by, fatigue took the soldier for a ride. Diving equipment put away, the early adult curled up into a ball beside the waterfall. World of sleep claiming him as a consolation prize, one final question poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

Were the metallic pearls abnormal?

***

Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a never ending loop of misfortune, flipping the tarot cards into reverse every single night. The night before him would throw down the death card in the reverse position on top of the pile, as well.

Before him had been a bed of Romaritime Flowers with their watery buds all opened. Seeing such, the early adult let out a hiss. Why can't flowers leave his dreams already? They were seeing other partially human people. But, such dream thoughts were cut short as the green haired strangers with black bars over their eyes made their presence known.

"You keep messing with our plans, meddling kid!" the first stranger shouted. "So, I'll mess with you!" The other stranger soon chimed in.

"You hope he likes fire!" the other stranger shouted. "Oneself has just the thing for Fatuus here!"

Strangers raising their hands over their head looking ready to demand everyone in the world give them energy, the early adult's dream eyebrows twitched. Was were they about to do to him? Why had they come into the dream world again? Had they been some sort of succubus? He recalled hearing such a word in his father's fiction books stashed away in a box in the former study in his stolen childhood.

Gigantic ball of fire joined together in the strangers four hands combined, the hyena's dream eyes grew wide. These two had the power of fire at their fingertips? How absolutely terrifying. He needed to run away before it were to catch him. But, such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Feeling a nonexistent adhesive lock his currently human feet into place, the early adult squirmed. Any minute now, and he would be engulfed into the flames.

"Let it burn, let it burn, let it burn!" one of the stranger said. They continued to do so as the dream seconds continued.

Ball of flames engulfing him whole, the early adult let out a scream. Fire burning his clothes to a crisp, the strangers kept the momentum going for dream hours on end. Flames continuing to set themselves ablaze throughout his short body as the hours in the land of the subconscious, their laughter kept getting more distorted as time went on.

Feeling his dream body only get weaker as the minutes dragged onward, the early adult's body of charcoal fell backwards. Knowing that, at any moment, his dream body would perish, the hyena closed the subconscious eyes. It was over, he had lost. He was roasted, toasted, done.

"That's payback for your constant meddling!" the stranger shouted. "Buh bye!"

Faceless strangers soon leaving, a sea of thoughts flowed through the chimera. Those strangers, just who were they? Flowers burning around him as the final set of flames hit the grasses beneath him, the thoughts kept on going. What did he ever do to these people to have such visceral towards him? Revenge was not a healthy outlet if that's what they wished to do.

Feeling his dream heart begin to cease beating, the early adult closed his dream eyes one final time. The strangers, why were they doing this to him? If he were to ever come across them in the mortal waking world, he had to apologize to them, guaranteed. Feeling the final beat lay to rest, one last thought came through as the dream world grew dark and silent.

What did he do to deserve this?

***

"Maybe those faceless strangers are out to get me.
Even though I don't believe I have ever seen
Them in the mortal waking world, I can't help but feel they seem familiar.
Are they someone I have encountered before?
Looks like I need to keep my eyes open.
Looks like I have to keep my ears open.
I'm starting to think they
Could be those hooded strangers.

Perhaps, that's who they are.
Everything lines up.
Although, I could just be
Reaching for a comparison.
Looks like I need to keep my eyes open.
Sometimes, dream do have meaning. I'll keep an eye out, for the time being."

Finding himself in a house unknown to him as he woke up the next morning, the hyena rubbed his eyes. Where was he? How did he get here? But, as he put on his glasses, one of the faces from yesterday walked towards him. Seeing such, the hyena blinked. What was she doing here? Was he still dreaming? Pinching his wrist and feeling a sting, he hissed at the recoil. He was definitely awake, alright.

"You shouldn't sleep near a waterfall. You'll make yourself ill if you do that," Bain scolded, wagging her finger. "Also, your tail is sticking out. I figured I'd let you know."

Hearing such, the early adult had become as red as a tomato. His tail was sticking out? How incredibly embarrassing. Closing his eyes for a minute, his tail retracted from behind him. Appendage gone, the early adult let out a squeal. She thought he was disgusting, for sure. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena stood to his feet.

Hearing a loud yawn off in the distance, a duel of good mornings had been exchanged in the other room. Knowing that was his cue to leave, Siorc prepared to excuse himself. But, as he walked off towards the exit door, a hand had been on the sleeve of his winter jacket.

"Could you a wait a second before running off?" Kali asked. "I'm sorry that Aigre dragged you off in her shenanigans yesterday." She placed her hand beside her temple, for a moment. "Are you looking for those metallic pearls?"

The hyena could feel a shock shoot down his spine. How did she know that he was looking for the metallic pearls? Had she heard about such treasures from other people who lived in Poisson? He supposed such had been the case. Nodding, she grew quiet for a moment.

Seeing the young man nod, Kali held back the urge to groan. So, he was another one of those pearl gatherers. Why had so many of those people been popping up around Fontaine all of a sudden? How very suspicious. But, maybe it was best to help him for the time being as some sort of apology for Aigre's mess.

"I guess, as some sort of apology, we'll help you look for them," Kali said, hand still on her temple. "Bain and I have to look for our sister, anyway. She wandered off again while we were both sleeping."

Kali mentioning Aigre had wandered off, the early adult's heart had grew heavy, for a moment. The seal lion sisters had their work cut out for them, for sure. But, he supposed he didn't mind their assistance if they had other objectives. Giving her a nod, Bain soon joined the party.

"We saw the pearls around a majority of the Belleau region," Bain said, index finger up. "Let's get going."

Girls ascending the ladder before him, the early adult followed the two from behind. Party of two jumping towards the strange ship in the corner and jumping off, the hyena did not follow suit. Was that action necessary? Surely, jumping from such a high height was dangerous, even for sea lions.

Heading onto a dirt road path, the party of three had begun to head south. Grassy plains everywhere, and some houses here and there, the early adult could not help but wonder. Did people in Fontaine live in the wilderness like they did in Sumeru? But, he supposed such was not his business to find out.

Plains continuing on for awhile, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Where could Aigre have possibly wandered off to? Wherever it was she had gone to, she was definitely causing her sisters a lot of distress. Bain turning her head frantically as she kept walking forward, her jerking around spoke for itself.

Reaching the same beach area as the day before but much more east than the other day, a sight to behold caught the early adult's attention. Multiple sets of metallic clams sticking their shells out on the sandy sediment, the hyena placed his finger on his chin. How in the world did he not notice the clamshells the other day? He should have kept his eyes out for them. But, he supposed it was too late for that.

Bain and Kali taking out scythes with red and purple tips, the party to two in front of him had begun hitting the metallic bivalves with a fervor. Hearing the clang of the reaper blades clashing with their inanimate sea enemy for minutes on end, the two let out a battle cry as if they were wolves.

Clamshells eventually prying itself open, two pearls had flung out of the object's center. Spoils of aquatic war soon handed off to him, the early adult swore he could feel his hands begin to weight a ton. Just what metal were these pearls made out of, titanium? But, such had not been the only issue. Feeling a harsh, coarse feeling through his hands, the hyena grit his teeth.

Pocketing the pearls immediately, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Human hands soon transforming into hyena claws, the soldier dashed off towards a group of iron clams. There was no way he could leave all the work to Bain and Kali. He had to put in his weight, as well. Swiping his claws through the unresponsive enemy, the sea lion in the corner were doing their duty as well.

Three pearls eventually slashed out of their deposits, robotic flowers had been added to the mix shortly after. Seeing such, the early adult hissed at the robot plants. How dare there be metal flowers here, as well. Absolutely disgusting. Why did his former fling think it could sneak up on him wherever he were to go?

Six more pearls soon collected beside the ocean waves with the trio's combined efforts, the chimera let out a tired sigh. Why were the clamshells so difficult to get to open? But, he supposed they were like all the mineral deposits seen throughout Teyvat. Difficult to cut, difficult to take.

Final set of metallic pearls in the area gathered up, the hyena took a long, deep breath. Why did Her Majesty want these minerals, anyway? Surely, they were completely and utterly worthless pieces of trash that would do absolutely nothing for her. But, he supposed if she wanted them, she would find out how little they were worth herself.

Kali soon informing him there had been many other pearls found somewhere north, the early adult followed behind the duo in silence. Bain telling him to keep an eye out for Aigre, the soldier nodded. Right, keep an eye out for her. She could be anywhere. Reversing back towards the path they came, the walkway awaited.

Heading upon a pathway underneath the Aquabus railings, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. The water railways, just how far around Fontaine did they reach? But, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. Why was he letting himself get distracted? He needed to keep walking.

As the hyena kept following the sea lion sisters from behind, the early adult could not help but feel a wave of confusion. The metallic pearls, just what were they exactly, and where could they have possibly come from? They did not feel as though they were natural occurrences in Fontaine, in the slightest.

Reaching the next area, a sight of utter chaos flew through the area. Robotic clamshells moving to a fro with steam going through them the hyena backed seven steps away. Metallic creatures growing a pair of iron legs, they lunged themselves towards the sea lion duo.

Bain and Kali removing their scythes from behind them, the two turned their heads towards him. Four eyes glued to him, the soldier could feel a shock shoot down his spine. Why were they looking at him that way? Did they have something to say to him? Whatever it was, he knew he needed to listen.

"Do you need a weapon?" Bain asked. "I can lend you one. What do you use in combat?"

Hearing Bain's inquiry, the hyena placed his hand in front of him. Spelling out the word claymore with his fingers, wordless language had been sent the young woman's way. But, as he had done so, she scratched her head. Seeing such, a wave of defeat flowed him. Did she not understand sign language? He supposed not everyone knew, or cared enough to learn it.

Witnessing the stranger they were assisting with the pearls spell out the word claymore, Bain gazed at Kali. He wielded a greatsword? What a troublesome situation. Such type of weapon was not something neither she nor Kali ever carried around. Shaking her head, she turned around.

Seeing the looks of disdain on the duo's face, the hyena shook his head. Maybe it was just better to fight with his hyena claws, for the time being. There was no way he would be using his Vision. Dendro and metal definitely did not interact with one another whatsoever.

Bain's scythe soon scorching hot with the flames of the world, the early adult closed his eyes. She had a pyro vision? How terrifying. Turning his head towards the opposite direction, the fire was out of sight, out of mind. But, as he turned his head towards the opposite direction, the monster clams were swarming around him like a Cicin hive.

Kali firing off multiple attacks of electricity, the early adult's knees jumped. Wouldn't Bain's flames overload the Electro? Backing away, the early adult got his hyena claws ready. There was no time to sit and watch as the other two fought; he had to battle, as well. First set of clams taken out of the picture, the group continued heading north.

Multiple bivalves with major arrays of aggression. Multiple sessions of Pyro, Electro and hyena claws swiped through the creatures one after another. Everything going oddly well, the group continued upon the northern pathway. Clamshell slayers continuing their duties, pearls aplenty had been collected.

But the road had begun to go south as the party of three had reached the area near Poisson. Peculiar robotic fish monsters lunging through the air with pearls across their backside, the early adult's legs shook with a fervor. What were aquatic creatures doing out of the water? But, as they were ready to bring out their robot chompers, Bain let out a scream.

"Those fish shouldn't be out of water!" Bain exclaimed, voice shaking. "How did they get here?"

"Archons! If Aigre is anywhere near these robots," Kali said, hands through her hair. "She'll try to ride on top of them like they're horses! We have to get rid of them and move on!"

Bain and Kali glowing with intense energy, the early adult swore the duo's hair would turn blonde and get extremely spiky if they were to shout really loud, the hyena backed four steps away. Where they getting in the zone? Kali's energy soon hitting its maximum she let out a scream.

"Trident of electricity!" Kali shouted at the top of her lungs.

Trident made out of pure lightning in the palm of her hands, Kali swiped forward. Pole weapon made out of pure electricity baking the robotic fish into an electrocuted pie, Bain's screams were soon next. Looking about ready to go super screamer blue, the hyena backed two steps further away. Should she scream any louder, and she would pass out, for sure.

"Anchor of fire!" Bain shouted at the top of her lungs.

Ship anchor of pure flames thrown at the enemies, Pyro and Electro shook hands with one another. Metal fish burning to a crisp, the soldier swore he could hear a loud boom coming from the sky as the creatures fell off towards the ground. Seeing such, the hyena's jaw dropped open.

Sea lion duo burning even more metallic fish to a crisp faster than he could blink, the early adult backed two steps further away. Was he even needed here? His attacks were a stick hitting a metallic fortress in comparison, for sure. Pearls soon falling to the ground, the spoils of war were handed off to the soldier.

Soon hearing a loud scream off in the distance, Bain and Kali were off to the races. Switching the position of his legs, the early adult burst into a speedy sprint. Soon reaching an area on the edge near a seaside house, Aigre was within his field of damaged vision. Fingers pointing at the waterbed beside her, she let out a sea of screams.

"Fishies down below tried to eat my pirate ship!" Aigre shouted, pointing. "They went thataway! Sissie, Sisser, we have to chase them!" But, an immediate scolding came her way.

"Aigre, how many times do we have to tell you to stop wandering off without telling us where you're going?!" Bain scolded. But, her scolding soon fell on deaf ears.

Aigre diving into the ocean as Bain laid down the law, the hyena let out a sigh. She never listened, did she? Bain and Kali had their work cut out for them, indeed. Sea lion duo rolling up their sleeves, the soldier put on his diving equipment. He supposed he was about to go under the sea. He needed to prepare himself. Kali letting out a sigh, she spoke up as he placed the oxygen tank behind him.

"We'll remind her of the rules later," Kali said to Bain. She then turned towards the pearl gatherer. "There's some pearls north of Salacia Plain, I've heard. So, while we chase those, uh, villains I guess, follow behind us."

Bain and Kali going under, the early adult took a deep breath. Feeling a spark go off in his brain, the soldier soon jumped into the water, as well. Suit thrusting him downward in an automatic fashion, a domain in the corner caught the soldier's attention. Such places even appeared underwater? But, the early adult focused on what was going on in front of him. There was no time to let himself get distracted.

But, as the hyena reached an area in Salacia Plain a few minutes after Bain and Kali had arrived, a sea of disgust flowed through him at the sight of Aigre arguing up a storm off in the corner. Sea lion, or mermaid, rather, yelling at two blonde penguin people for eating her pirate ship, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Was she making things up now and pinning the blame on people? While penguins were the bane of his existence, there was no way they ate boats, guaranteed.

Argument continuing for a little while, the soldier turned his attention towards the victims of Aigre's wild claims. Swimming to the left had been a young penguin lady with long blond hair going towards her feathered down backside. Buns at the top of her head, as well, he turned his attention towards her eyes, for a moment. Bright orange eyes standing out beside her golden penguin crests above them, the early adult held back the urge to gag. White and black penguin body barely covered up by her opened up pink jacket, the hyena held back the urge to gag. She should cover herself up and have some decency. Clawed webbed feet looking ready to attack, he turned his attention towards the other annoyance.

Looking ready to swing a punch with his penguin flippers had been a young man with very short blond hair that barely went below his ears. Orange eyes and golden penguin crests matching the person adjacent to him exactly, the early adult let out a groan at his penguin body only somewhat covered by a blue shirt. Did these penguins think everyone wanted to see their feathery bodies? No one did, he bet. Spiky choker around his neck, as well, the soldier ended his examination. But, as he had done such, complaints were sent to Celestia above.

"Bain, could you get your annoying sister away from me?!" the female penguin shouted. "We can't catch fish while she's here!" The other penguin soon chimed in.

"Listen, sea lion chick, we didn't eat your pirate ship, okay?" the other guy groaned. "Quit bothering us!"

"Sorry, Vidame," Bain responded, bowing. "We'll be sure to give her a very stern talking to once we get home!'

"Apologies, Domini," Kali said in tandem. "We'll both make sure this never happens again."

But, as the apologies rolled themselves out the one named Vidame looked Siorc's way. Gazing at his diving suit, the penguin lady put on an array of faces one after another. Making the most disgusting noises known to mankind, saliva had been gifted to his diving suit. Wiping the putrid germs away, the hyena could feel a tint of rage. He had a new thorn in his side coming.

"Look at Ritchie Rich over here! He's got a suit that can swim on its own!" Vidame exclaimed, spitting on the diving suit once more. "Booo!" The second penguin soon chimed in.

"Boo, loser!" Domini added, irritation evident in his voice. "Learn to swim like the rest of us, you lazy rich boy!"

Hearing such comments, the soldier supposed he did not blame either of them for thinking such a way. Everyone else around him had been swimming naturally. But, he supposed it was best to ignore them and start pearl hunting. Aigre letting out a barely audible apology, the early adult had the diving suit thrust him forward.

Heading upon the north aquatic pathway throughout the Salacia Plain, nothing of especial note stuck out to the soldier. Same glass dome, aquatic creatures and everything else exactly where they had been the day prior, the early adult kept letting the automatic swim suit thrust him northward bound.

Spotting multiple sea horses and rays of many colors and varieties, the soldier tried to resist the urge to smile. How sweet it must have been for the sea creatures deep beneath the water to mostly be undisturbed by all of humanity. Continuing through the path, the underwater scenery had begun to change slightly.

No Melusines anywhere to be seen within the watery world of the plains, the hyena wondered. The Melusines, did they only dwell in the Merusea Village in the underwater world? He supposed such was probably the case. Keeping himself focused, the early adult kept pressing forward.

But, as the north road taken, the early adult braced himself. What was about to await him as he kept going further into the ocean bed? If there were any monsters, he would need to have the diving suit tread carefully. Reaching an area with slightly yellow grass, the chimera steeled himself.

Finding a bed of metallic pearls beside a coral reef, the early adult pressed the blade button on his left glove. Water cutter doing its duty beside a group of peculiar looking crystals, the soldier scooped up such minerals, as well. Perhaps, just maybe, Her Majesty wouldn't mind being handed something extra.

Finding a small cave off in the corner filled with the pearls of iron, and strange crystals, as well, something of particular note stuck out to the chimera as he slashed away. Strange blue crab with a symbol above its head, the soldier glared at the button on his left glove. Were there other underwater powers he was unable to obtain? What absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Her Majesty should update his suit to be up to date.

No more pearls found along the way up towards the most northern area around the largest water bed the hyena's diving suit pushed him backwards towards the direction he came. Multiple pearls collected along the way as the domain from before drew closer, the soldier prepared to return to the surface.

Bain, Kali and Aigre nowhere to be seen, the early adult returned to the surface world above him. Had the sea lion sisters already left? He supposed it was no business of his if they had already gone somewhere far away. Removing his diving equipment, the soldier had begun walking. Heading back towards Poisson, a feeling of doom flowed through him as he had almost been near the underground city.

Strange monsters he had never seen before that looked like a clamshell turned inside out and upside down, the hyena's teeth chattered. What in all of Teyvat were these monsters? He could not help but feel a heavy wave of disturbance as they crawled towards him. Knowing he had no choice but to fight alone, the soldier had begun the battle.

Peculiar creatures spitting out strange green fluids, the thick, puss* film slipped underneath his glasses. Goop leaving its sticky aftermath, the early adult let out a scream as his pupils stung like a bee. World all green and slimy around him, everything around him shook as the spit takes covered him up.

Wiping his eyes, the hyena's human hands and legs transformed into hyena ones. Kicking the clam a new one, the creature of many disgusting proportions kept unleashing its goop upon him. Sea of clam saliva bathing his uniform, the early adult let out a scream. Was this monster trying to melt his clothes? How awful. This was not the time and place for such atrocities. Was it going to spring up tentacles, too?

Hyena claws attempting to do justice, the clam's goop was the gift that kept on forcing itself to be given. Trying with all his might to get his attacks to pull through, the early adult let out a scream. No more saliva, no more green slime. This bivalve had to be ended, right this instant.

Monsters defeated after fifty slashes, the hyena let out a pant. Conches dropping from their bodies as they disintegrated, the soldier let out a huff. Surely, he had collected enough for the day. Returning to Poisson, a heavy wave of fatigue took the chimera for a ride. Crawling beside the waterfall once more, sleep took the soldier away. But, as the world of dreams invited him back in, one final thought tapped on his shoulder.

Why does he have to do all this for?

***

"What is the point in all this?
Her Majesty is still for all this trash.
Your Majesty, why? Why

Are you asking this of
Me? Why are you having me do all this for?

I am confused, honestly.

Even as I collect more of these pearls, conches and loot, they feel as though they have zero
Value. What's the point of all this?
Even I'm starting to feel as though I should question this judgement.
No, I mustn't. She'll kill me. But, I just

Don't know anymore. None
Of these objects
I have been collecting feel like they have any meaning.
None, zero. They are merely just
Garbage, truly.

This is all just pointless,
Honestly. I doubt there's any energy in these pearls.
I doubt there's any energy contained in these conches.
She's just using me for exploration,

Isn't she?
That makes sense now, I see now, Your Majesty.

It's all just a game of
Seeing how much of this place I can explore.

Poisson, there's almost nothin here of value.
Oh, now I get it, truly.
It's all a game.
Nothing about this is something
That matters. She just wants me to
Look around the Belleau Region.
Every single one of these pearls is just some
Stupid little distraction. I
See now, I get it. I'm just a chess piece."

Finding himself in the same house as yesterday morning upon waking up the following morning, the early adult rubbed his eyes. How did he get here again? Who brought him here? But, as Kali had stepped into the room, he supposed he had an idea about what was about to come.

"The Demoiselle would like to see you," Kali said. "There's no time to dawdle. I'm taking you to the ship."

Kali hauling him out of the house before he could even process what was happening, Siorc tilted his head. What was happening? Where was Kali taking him? Was she kicking him out of her house? Words barely registering, the soldier's brain jumped to many conclusions all at once. Kali, did she find out he as a member of the Fatui? He supposed he did not blame her for expelling him from their house, if so.

But, as his morning daze wore off, everything had hit the chimera at once. Kali was taking him to the ship in the middle of the underground city? Why did she need to do so? The Demoiselle, who was that? Whoever she was, he knew he needed to prepare himself. Taken onto a long metallic pathway, the ship was soon nearing.

Finally reaching the ship after fifteen minutes of being escorted, a beautiful, tall, curly golden blond haired woman with light blue eyes, a black hat, and short fancy black dress with golden coattails to match her hair, the early adult held back the urge to gasp. What a gorgeous lady. Her fashion sense was making him feel green. But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. What was he letting himself get distracted by someone's beauty? He needed to focus.

"I have a letter to deliver to someone named 'Siorc'. You are Diplomatic Soldier Siorc, correct?" the Demoiselle asked.

Hearing his name called out to him as Bain soon joined Kali, the early adult could feel his eyes flicker. Who told this stranger his name? But, he supposed his name was on the envelope. Nodding the letter holder had soon been handed off to the hyena. Undoing the adhesive, the early adult almost fell backwards off the ship at the words on the paper.

"My Lovely Chimera,

Get me volcanic ash rock deposits from under the sea."

Reading the words on the letter a second time, the early adult's entire body shook like an earthquake. Her Majesty wants him to gather what now? Volcanic ash rocks? How terrifying. Surely, this was some sort of prank. But, the chimera pushed such thought away. The note was written in Snezhnayan. It was the real thing.

Bain and Kali peering at his letter like it was their business, the soldier covered the paper up with his hands. What were they doing looking at his private mail. Girls looks as though they were translating the written words back into their own writing language, the early adult crossed his arms around his waist. What nosy chimeras they were being just now.

"Volcanoes under the sea? Demoiselle, where is this happening, anyway?" Bain asked, skeptic tone of voice. "This sounds like something Aigre would make up!"

"It sure does, doesn't it?" the Demoiselle responded. "Head for the pool right about over there." She kept attempting to adjust where her pointer finger was hitting.

"If this is real," Kali said as she had begun running. "There's no time to waste!"

Bain and Kali heading towards a pool of water off in the corner, the early adult placed his diving suit over his partially human person. Party of two jumping downward, the early adult took a deep breath. Surely, this was all just some sort of prank. It had to have been. Volcanic activity and rock deposits underwater? Impossible. There was no way.

But, as the party of three headed down to the underwater cave underneath Poisson, a sight to behold played a show many horrors. Hooded strangers floating underneath the sea bed with their hands pulsating with darkness, crabs had been fed a peculiar array of energy. Uncomfortable look on Bain and Kali's faces as the performance continued, Bain's voice grew power.

"Hey!" Bain shouted as loud as she possibly could. "Stop messing with nature, it's wrong!" But such point was laughed off, in an instant.

"How dare they interfere!" one of the hooded strangers shouted. "Stay out of your experiment!"

Hooded strangers sending the crabs everyone's way, the creatures puffed up their backs as the culprits of modification had sped off on the waters. Creatures looking ready to blow, the soldier prepared himself for battle. Any minute now, and they were going to blow. He had to fight them before it was too late.

Crab monsters launching out a barrage of heated igneous rocks the soldier grabbed the minerals one after after. Heat of the objects looking ready to burn a hole in his gloves, the hyena threw the object back. Enemy stunned for a mere moment, the soldier prepared himself for the next strike.

Bain and Kali beside him slapping their sea lion tails on the crabs like their entire bodes were a weapon, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Didn't using a tail in such a fashion harm the user? But, the early adult put a pin in such thought. More rocks of various levels of heat coming his way, the early adult had his diving suit thrust him towards the right.

Second heated rock of volcanic activity grabbed, the hyena tossed the mineral back towards its owner. Monster locked into a stun once more, the soldier twitched his eyebrow. Was it just him, or was this battle far easier than usual? It was almost if, in the world of Teyvat, the world had been divided into eight levels to determine the enemy's strength in the world, and the current level had been set to zero.

But the easy switch had soon switched over to hard. Crab monster dropping down a flurry of volcanic rocks, everything burned. Sea of rocks flowing from every angle, no attacks were able to be landed for minutes on end, but as the tidal wave had come to an end, the sea lion sisters had readied the advantage.

Scythes dealing fifteen blows a piece, the enemy had been removed from the equation. Multiple volcanic rock deposits dropping onto the seabed beneath it, the early adult placed the rocks of cooled magma heat into his collect supplies satchel slowly, but surely. Hooded strangers returning once more, choice words had been said.

"We'll curse you all for this!" the hooded stranger shouted. And as such had been said, they were soon gone.

Kali soon informing him it was best to head to the West Slopes for the time being, the party of three returned to the surface. Exiting Poisson for the time being, the hyena let out a sigh. Was now really the time to continue to look for more metallic pearls? Surely, he had collected enough of those by now.

Group heading back towards the east, the hyena stared off into space as the pathway underneath the aqua railways was slowly nearing. Her Majesty, surely, all she wanted now was volcanic rock deposits. She most certainly did not want for him to collect even more conches, for sure. He needed to tell Bain and Kali such undeniable fact.

But, no such fact would leave his lips. He supposed, a little extra conch shells wouldn't hurt. But, as they kept walking towards the West Slopes, something profound had bounced off his inhuman eardrums. Bain claiming the conches and pearls had contained some sort of malicious energy, something clicked inside the soldier. He sees now. He understood the purpose of the collection now.

Her Majesty wanted to take the energy from the pearls and conch shells.

Continuing onward, a conch pulsating with black aura had been handed off to the soldier. Gazing at the object, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why did Her Majesty need this energy for, anyway? Surely, she had plenty of power of her own. She certainly did not need such extra energy.

Continuing towards the east, Bain and Kali's scythes made short work of the clamshells. Seeing how easily they were defeated, the soldier tilted his head. Was it just his imagination, or had the bivalves only gotten weaker since yesterday? Perhaps, the further away they had gotten from the water, the less powerful and sturdy they became.

Moving onward towards the grasslands, one set of conches exuding the power of darkness had been collected. But, as the soldier pocketed such object, something had caused a disturbance in the area. Spotting a strange tower off in the corner, the early adult stepped towards it. That building in the corner, it was exuding a high amount of energy. How peculiar, he had to check it out.

But such was impossible in a matter of moments. Feeling himself slam into a glass wall, the early adult grit his teeth. What was this barrier doing here? Trying to walk around it, the glass struck again no matter what angle he attempted to avoid it. Snapping his fingers, an invisible white flag had been waved. Who covers a tower with a glass barrier? How ridiculous.

Bain and Kali walking back off towards the opposite direction, the hyena followed behind in silence. Pearls collected every step of the way, a familiar beach had been reached once again. But, as he stepped upon the sediment in front of him, an almost predictable set of events was ready to strike.

Aigre standing over the water, pointing at the ocean once again, the hyena let out a sigh. What was she trying to drag everyone down into this time? Had her pirate ship moved again? How many times was she going to use such as an excuse to drag her sisters into something they didn't want to enable her with? Looks of irritation on their faces, the soldier prepared himself for the scolding match to come.

"My pirate shipped moved again!" Aigre shouted, pointing. "We need to chase it!" But, a scolding had soon come her way.

"Aigre, you really need to stop dragging people down into this. You're disturbing people's work!" Kali scolded in a stern tone. "Please stop doing this. It's becoming much more of an issue lately!" But, her scolding fell on deaf ears.

"New crew member, please come with me and chase the ship?" Aigre asked, puppy dog eyed. "Captain Vert might die if he doesn't get to see you!"

The hyena did not know why, but a wave of guilt flowed through him at the sound of Aigre's invisible ship captain dying if he were to never see him again. Did he really have a choice now? Maybe it was best to just play along one last time, for the time being so the young sea lion, or mermaid, rather, didn't suffer some sort of crack in her mind.

Returning to his diving suit, the mermaid soon dragged the hyena downward towards the ocean bed as if she were actually a siren. Bain and Kali following deep beneath as the Elton Trench had been approached, a sight of many uneasy happening clumped together into one as the chimera got the clearer underwater picture.

Army of volcanic infused crabs looking ready to get on the offensive, the early adult's eyebrows twitched from underneath his goggles. Those hooded strangers, how many of the undersea crustaceans had they already modified? They had to have planted all of them with heated rock deposits, for sure.

"These crabs are going to eat my pirate ship!" Aigre cried. As she said such a scythe had been in her hand.

Aigre letting out a battle cry, rock hard crystals surrounded her weapon. But, he swore as she rammed the minerals as hard as diamond into the enemy, her hair was about to become blond from all her screaming. Looking about ready to reach Super Screamer Level Three, every single crab had been taken out of the picture faster than the soldier was able to blink. A pirate's life was not a peaceful one.

"They're heading that way!!" Aigre shouted, pointing with her sea lion, or rather, mermaid flippers. "After them!!"

Three sea lions speeding off towards a hole in the corner of the trench with gusto, the early adult followed behind slowly but surely. Automatic swim suit pushing him downward, a world of many heated terrors awaited for him as he pushed onward. Reaching a room with a large underwater volcano looking ready to explode at any given moment, the early adult's heart skipped more than seven beats.

Seeing the fiery underwater mountain looking ready to blow, the early adult let out a scream. How did such destructive cavern make its way under the ocean? He needed to get out of here right this instant. But, Aigre tale soon spun the wheels. Pointing at a gigantic crab in the corner saying he's about to eat her ship, everyone had begun to get to work.

Water far more toasty than normal, the early adult could feel his vitality drain away far swifter than normal. Feeling himself ready to fade away at any given moment, the hyena flinched. He needed to cool down the cavern before it was too late. Bain soon pointing at watery totems in the corner, everyone split themselves up into groups.

Bain removing a couple of crustaceans out of the picture, a strange water bubble had been gathered by the hyena. Soon grabbing a hold of a second one, an aquatic ring surrounded the soldier. Dropping the circle around one of the elemental monuments, one of many had soon been lit up.

Kali's electricity destroying another crab after four attempts, the soldier's automatic swimsuit thrusted him towards the next water particle. Second enemy defeated from afar as such kept going, another aquatic ring surrounded the soldier. Second totem speedily lit up, one final round of crabs awaited.

Aigre letting out a growl and screaming at the crabs for trying to eat her ship, the early adult blinked in a rapid manner as the monsters had faded to the ether faster than he could process it. Anger was the most powerful emotion in the word, for sure. Water circle soon surrounding him, the young soldier hunted down the totem.

Every single totem lit up after half an hour, volcanic ash rock deposits aplenty had been rounded up like a nonexistent rodeo for the disappeared horses. But, as the celebrations were about to kick in, a reminder had kicked into overdrive. Aigre's flippers pointing at a gigantic violet crab in the corner, seeds of confusion planted themselves into the sea ground.

"That's the Iron Viscount!" Aigre shouted at the top of her lungs. "It's going down! Arg, down with ye!"

Crab thrusting forward, the soldier had gotten his water blade ready. Launching such at the creature's shell, the enemy returned an attack in kind. But, as his slashes kept going, a shield closed itself on the creature. Absolutely nothing get through such defenses, the hyena waited.

Shield coming down after fifteen seconds, the blade slashes continued. Crab flinching as such had happened, the defenses kicked up once more. Waiting it out, everything rinsed and repeated for more than twenty minutes. Creature only halfway through its vitality, the fight had no end in sight.

Creature shielding itself for longer as the fight went on, the early adult clenched his teeth as the seawater hit them. Was this monster just showing off now? Defenses down as the sea lion sisters defeated the leftover monsters down below, the early adult kept the battle going.

Iron Viscount swimming further upward towards the cavern's ceiling, the hyena's automatic swim suit thrust him forward. Was it really moving upward now? Ridiculous, it needed to be ended right now. Water cutter carving through for minutes on end, barely energy remained from the enemy's side.

Reaching what seemed to be its final shield, the soldier's slashes kept going. So called royal crab becoming one with the sea as the fiftieth and last blow had been dealt, one large volcanic ash rock deposit to end them all dropped itself from the enemy's shell. Water's reaching a normal water temperature, Aigre soon swam towards an opening in the water.

"Sissie, Sisser, new crew member, over here!" Aigre exclaimed, swimming upward.

Soon reaching the surface, a barren room with absolutely nothing of note had been in front of the sea lion sisters and he. Empty corridor filled with some treasures here and there, the early adult heaved a sigh. Aigre saying he could take whatever treasures he wanted, a sweat drop ran down his cheek.

As the hyena took one of the many apparent treasures, the soldier gazed at Aigre. Pointing at a ship that wasn't there, the hyena placed his finger on his chin. Maybe she just liked playing make believe. But, he supposed it wasn't something he should ask her about. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted by Bain's voice.

"Alright, you found your pirate ship, right?" Bain asked, voice tired. "It's time to go home now."

Kali soon turning to face him, the soldier gave eye contact. Was she about to say something to him while Bain was getting ready to scold Aigre again? He supposed it was best to listen to what she had to say if she were about to. Keeping his eyes on hers, she soon spoke.

"Sorry, ah, right, your name is Siorc," Kali said, seeming as though she as struggling to remember. "Sorry, Siorc, for getting you involved in our sister's shenanigans."

Sisters all leaving together, the early adult returned to the surface. Figuring he had more than enough of the garbage Her Majesty needed, the hyena returned to Poisson, as well. Agent waiting for him by the entranceway, the soldier gulped as he handed the bag of supplies off to him.

Agent opening the bag up and counting everything out loud, the hyena broke out into a sweat. If he had not grabbed enough, he was in trouble, guaranteed. But, he swore as his subordinate finished counting a smirk appeared underneath his mask. Agent soon grabbing the diving equipment as well, his mask turned to face the chimera.

"Excellent work, soldier, you are hereby dismissed," the Agent said. "Return to Snezhnaya at once."

Removing the Teleport Waypoint Proxy Orb from his back pocket, the hyena opened the orb into map form. Military barracks waypoint highlighted the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, the early adult walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor.

Fontaine, just what was going on here? Where had all this odd energy been coming from? The dark aura inside the conch shells, it had to have come from an outside source, for sure. But, as he continued circling about, another question wrapped vines around the soldier. The hooded strangers, just who were they, and why did he keep having encounters with them? Something was amiss, guaranteed.

Feeling a wave of tiredness, the soldier let out a deep yawn. He supposed if he encountered them again, he would just battle them. Fatigue hugging him from behind as such decision came over him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. World of sleep ready to take him away as his head hit the pillow, one final thought held the early adult tight.

Was Fontaine in danger? Those hooded strangers are quite suspicious.

Chapter 5: One Trick Hyena: Oratrice Breathing

Chapter Text

"This is becoming a pattern lately
How much energy has gone awry?
Energy is a driving force there.
So much there seems to be run far more
Efficiency than other nations.

For what it's worth, that thing, the
Oratrice, it's running everything,
No. Maybe that's not
The case. Surely something else is
Also containing the energy.
It's everywhere, lurking.
Now I remember those
Energy blocks. Pneuma, Ousia?

Maybe I should try using them further. But,
It seems that the crisis
Seems to be involving monsters only.
Something tells me this
Is just the beginning.
Ousia, Pneuma, what are those, really?
Nothing makes sense.
So much is happening.

Cannot fathom what is
Even happening
Right now. All
This trash I've been collecting
As these weeks go on
I don't know why Her Majesty
Needs them? What do they do? They've
Looked useless thus far.
Your Majesty, just what

Are you planning? Do you
Really need anything I have collected?
Each and every little object is

Basically toys, garbage.
Each and every little object is
Completely tiny, insignificant.
Ousia blocks? What use do they have outside Fontaine?
Maybe they do
Nothing. But, I
Guess I will never find out.

After all, Her Majesty never tells me anything.

Perhaps, that is
A good thing.
There is nothing
To disappoint her, so there has been no
Error margins. I must
Remember, I
Need to do everything perfect.

Less errors, less disappointment.
After all, if I make
Too many mistakes, she'll kill me.
Every day is always the same
Looping opportunity.
Yes, no mistakes.

These missions in Fontaine will
Honestly just continue,
Every day is a pattern.
Yes, every day is routine.

All these other diplomatic affairs, they are
Lukewarm days in between.
Looks like I need to be ready

I need to prepare myself for the
Next routine,
Very much so.
Obviously, I will be returning to Fontaine more often.
Looks like it's happening again today.
Very much so.
Everything repeats.

Everything loops.
Nothing strays off the path too long.
Everything is the same.
Routines rarely break.
Get ready for anything,
Yes, diligence is key."

Four days had passed since the hyena collected metallic pearls, conches, and various other seaside trash for Her Majesty. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Diplomatic affairs droning onward throughout Liyue, nothing had been out of the ordinary in the ninety-six hours passing.

The sound of bitter wind howled with as the morning raged onward. The roar of the wind in the world outside was like a wolf, letting out its shouts in Wolvendom. As the month long blizzard had reached its earliest stages, the noise had only gotten louder as the seconds paraded about. Howl hitting the windows once more, hundreds of Fatui Soldiers groaned in an echo.

The countless complaints about were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Stretching his arms towards the ceiling, the early adult let out a deep yawn. He knew that, if he did not start moving now, he'll suffer painful freezing, guaranteed. Placing his glasses over his heterochromatic eyes, the soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the hyena placed the winter jacket over his layered shirts, the soldier could not help but wonder. Is Fontaine about to suffer some sort of energy crisis? The hooded strangers, they were definitely responsible for such issue, if such were indeed the case. But, as he had begun to button his uniform, a spark popped off in the chimera's fading human brain.

The hooded strangers, next time he sees them, he'll have to fight them. End them, destroy them, prevent them from whatever plans they had in store for the Hydro Nation of Justice. They needed to be taken down, removed from the picture, stopped at all costs. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. What in the world was he thinking? Harming people is wrong. But, he knew, at some point, if Her Majesty ordered him to battle them, he would have no choice but to do so.

Taking a long deep breath, the early adult regained focus. Removing the cover off his hairpin and earrings box, the sunflower set stared back at the soldier. Seeing such, the hyena turned his face towards the opposite direction and let out a disapproved noise. Flowers and he were still not speaking terms.

Sunflowers shunned, the early adult clicked the weaponized jewelry and accessory into place. Adorning matching strawberries in his hair and ears, the early adult closed the lid on top of his prized possessions. He was wasting far too much time, he had to move quickly, or the chill would swallow him whole at any given moment.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier stared at the Geo Delusion sitting beside it. The sinister orb, should he use it? But, the hyena pushed it aside, in an instant. There was no way he could make such a risk right now. He needed to keep his energy at a normal rate.

Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the early adult walked towards the barricaded window. Snow whipping up a fierce blanket of near invisibility, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Had the month long blizzard already begun? How much worse was it going to possibly get? He supposed he would find out in due time.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march onward with a fervor, the hyena slapped his cheeks. There was no more time for thinking; the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the soldier turned his face towards the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be a magic assistant for one of our subordinates in Fontaine and destroying malicious energy sources." But, such had not been the only order up the masked agent's sleeve. "Please take the magic show seriously, soldier." A bag shook from behind him as he said such.

Siorc jumped eight steps back. He had to perform in a magic show? Absolutely impossible. No one in the history of his family bloodline has ever been a mage. Why him, of all soldiers, did he have to be the assistant of some magician? This would go poorly, guaranteed.

The early adult stared at the wall, for a moment. A magician, really? How was someone that performed arts a member of the Fatui? Surely, this had to have been some sort of mistake. Tricks performed on stage were definitely of no use to Her Majesty, guaranteed. But, he supposed, perhaps, just maybe, such could have served as a cover up to hide the true objectives.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you with me? You will be assisting one of our subordinates as their assistant!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "There's no time for this dawdling! Don't keep Her Majesty waiting!"

The soldier flinched. Right, it was a crime to keep Her Majesty waiting. Taking a deep breath, the early adult gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock right now. It was time to get going, or his life would be over, for sure.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Arm out in front of him, the chimera waited for the escort to begin.

"Good. You'll be needing a hat. Put it on, soldier," the Agent responded.

Hat seated in the Agent's gloves, the early adult studied the black headwear, for a moment. But, as he kept observing the article of clothing, a sight of terror bore its fangs. Hydro Delusion seated in the center, the hyena's heart beat hard and fast in his chest. The sinister orb, if he were to use it more than necessary, he would be out of commission. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. He had to wear it, no matter what. Slipping the object on, the soldier placed his hand out in front of him once more.

"Let's go, soldier," the Agent said. Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as tight as a permanent glue trap that would never release its victim from its grasp, the soldier closed his eyes as the escort to Fontaine began. But, as the fast travel was about to end, one question remained supreme.

Why him? He doesn't know magic.

***

"Rich boy, and his stupid diving suit!
If I see him again in
That thing, I'll give him a lesson!
Can't you swim like a normal person and
Halt your addition to the pollution of our water?
It's the fault of you rich people!
Every single one of you, and those

'Robust machine fish'
Is ruining our homes down below!
Can't you see? You're actively
Harming the real fish!

It's never crossed your small little brain though, has it?
Foolish rich people!

If he comes down here again, in that

Suit, Domini and I will make him pay!
Even the less rich people have suits that don't move for them!
Even that other diver guy I see all the time with

His stupid machine obsession!
If you intend to come down here, learn to swim like the rest of us!
Maybe if we take

Aim at his suit, it'll be so damaged it won't work anymore!
Great idea! We won't
Aim for the oxygen tank, however,
It wouldn't be fun if he stops breathing!
No, no, no, just a small reminder.

Is all that it'll take.

Will it work? Who knows? But,
I won't let that thing pollute the
Land. I won't
Let it cause any harm.

Get your high Mora butt away from the Elton Trench.
I don't welcome you down here! I,
Vidame, will give him another warning!
Even that annoying pirate girl knows

Her place! It's always the ones with the
Increasing riches that care little about the world!
Mora means nothing, it's just gold coins!

Worthless pieces of garbage!
He's wasting his time
And nonexistent skills on
That suit that does everything automatically!

Ha, if this is what the surface world is like, I want no part of it!
Everything down here is better.

Domini definitely agrees.
Everything down here is better. The
Sea is the only world for me.
Even if I were to be given lungs tomorrow, I will never
Reemerge into the land above. Gills are
Very much better than lungs. No annoying rich people, nothing spent, nothing gained.
Everything is perfect down here!
So, those rich people and their suits? You'll get punished! I'm getting the shears!"

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. Was this how he's going to enter Fontaine all the time? Surely teleporting wasn't forbidden by the law. But, he supposed if Her Majesty did not want him using his proxy map, he could not disobey such orders.

Agent dragging him down the hill, a boat had soon been summoned out of nowhere, like usual. Placed into the wooden vessel, the hyena had been seated. Keeping himself as still as possible, the vehicle of Dendro creation cruised forward. Romaritime Harbor slowly getting closer, thoughts rolled a pebble around in the chimera's mind.

As the boat stroked closer towards the harbor, the chimera could not help but wonder once more. Why was he chosen for such a mission? Surely, Her Majesty knew he had no knowledge about magic. Such was never something that caught his interest in his stolen childhood.

Vessel almost ready to be docked, the hyena shook his head. He supposed why he was wanted for such mission did not matter. He had no choice but to go along with it. His orders were absolute. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena prepared himself. Boat soon hitting the concrete, the work mode switch flipped upward inside him. It was time to move forward; no more thinking.

Agent handing him a photo of the magician he would have to seek out, instructions about heading to the Court of Fontaine had been thrusted upon the early adult. Given strict orders to not teleport whatsoever at any point until the mission was over, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Was fast travel forbidden in the Nation of Justice? His proxy map had spoiled him rotten, indeed.

Ascending the staircase as the agent staged his departure, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. He supposed he was used to not being allowed to use his proxy map in Fontaine at this point. Taking the glass lift after reaching the end of the stairs, the hyena walked towards the Aquabus Station like usual.

But, as the hyena pressed the button on the sign, noise infiltrated the area like an unwanted pimple. Loud chatter about Lady ------ was about to address everyone, rumors about what she was about to say broke out like a contagious disease. Commotion about to break glass, the soldier turned his attention towards the cacophony.

Same blue haired young lady from last time sitting with her left leg crusted into her right thigh, an announcement released itself to every citizen eagerly waiting at the harbor. But, the soldier swore he could hear her say she had won another trial against the vile blonde. Crowd letting out a sea of cheers, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera.

Everyone chanting justice is served, fear ate the hyena up like a plate of barbeque ribs. If he were to make one wrong move in Fontaine, he will be found guilty by the Hydro Archon without a trial, guaranteed. Crowd of people soon clearing out, and noise soon depleting, the early adult returned his focus to the mission in front of him. He needed to be careful, no questions asked.

Aquabus soon arriving, a multitude of people soon cut in front of the soldier. Generic citizens pushing him aside one after another, the early adult clicked his tongue. How incredibly rude. What was he, a door? But, the early adult kept quiet. Getting angry was a waste of time and energy. Everyone packing themselves into the vehicle, the soldier squeezed himself in.

Feeling himself boxed in, the early adult flinched. Was this what it felt like when a bug is stomped underneath a human's shoe? But, he knew he had to bear with the tight spaces. Melusine tour guide squealing out with glee over the heavy population of people on her tour, she soon introduced herself, but such was shutdown in an instant as the automatic vessel cruised upon the aquatic railways.

Boundless chatter polluting the air around him as the aquabus kept moving forward, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why were there so many people here today? But, he supposed the generic citizens who did not witness the apparent court case against the blond wanted the scoop from the press in the city.

Rich people saying they wanted steak to celebrate, the early adult held back the urge to scoff. Celebrate what? The citizens on the aquabus definitely didn't accomplish anything. But, he supposed he did not understand the live of those who had a lot more Mora than he could ever hope to achieve with his military salary.

Vehicle almost at its usual destination, the early adult blinked as the generic citizens continued to squeeze him like a pancake. The Magician, where could he be waiting in the court city? He knew he would have to look everywhere possible until he were to discover him. Everyone soon removing themselves from the vehicle, the early adult let out a sigh. Freedom, at last.

Removing himself from the vessel, the hyena walked towards the main city. Removing the photo stashed into his back pocket, the hyena studied the person on the memory paper, for a moment. Young man with short blond hair burning into his brain, the chimera prepared himself. It was time for the one member search party to begin.

Figuring it was best to check the northern path first, the hyena had begun walking. Perhaps, just maybe, the magician was near the busiest streets. Surely, he would be entertaining people right about now. Performers never wasted a moment to entertain someone. Turning his heelless shoes off towards the right, the hyena prepared himself.

Passing by a rival boutique as he kept moving forward, the soldier heard whispers about an Inazuman fashion designer owning the establishment. Hearing such, the early adult titled his head. The Electro Nation of Eternity, wasn't it behind a decree to close its borders? But, he supposed it was best to not let himself get distracted by the chatter around him. He needed to find the magician.

City streets only filled with rich people looking at expensive clothing, and children looking for new toys to play with, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. The magician, where could he have possibly been? Not spotting him anywhere within the northern streets, the early adult walked past the adventurer's guild booth. Maybe he had been on the opposite streets.

Heading towards the Palais Mermonia after taking the glass box, the hustle and bustle cranked the dial up to eleven. Multiple people trying to head into the building, the early adult lowered his walk into a tiptoe. Why were people so eager to learn about the court case involving the mysterious blond? Surely, it did not matter all that much. It had to have been like any other legal proceedings within the nation.

Heading towards another entrance, the soldier searched the exit beside the palace. But, such proved to lead to nowhere of any importance. Looped back towards the area he just came, the hyena descended towards the second story of the area. Perhaps, just maybe, the magician was elsewhere.

Heading down the southern streets, no one that matched the appearance on the snapshot stuck out to the hyena. Outdoor restaurant packed to the brim with generic nobodies guzzling down steak, the early adult shook his head. What a busy day, it was. The meat industry was about to scurry away with millions of mora in one sitting, for sure.

Not coming across the person in the photo upon any corner, the soldier retraced his steps. Perhaps, just maybe, he had just missed him. Returning back to the place he once came, the soldier kept his eyes open on the streets. But, such retrace was a failure. Returning in the exact same spot with no one found, the early adult did a reversal once more.

Guards around the city giving him a strange look a she returned to the same spot for the third time in a row, fear held the hyena tight. Was he beginning to raise suspicions? He needed to head somewhere else within the city right away. Dashing off towards the glass box, the early adult headed for the lowest floor of the capital city. He was out of sight, out of mind.

Eventually coming across the person in the photo after reaching an area with a floating device above a tiny fountain, the early adult headed towards the person. Spotting an assistant beside him, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment. If the magician already had an assistant, what was he needed for? But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. Stepped towards the duo, the hyena studied them, for a moment.

Standing by the fountain looking ready to make it disappear had been a young man about eight centimeters taller than him. The young man had short dirty blond hair that went down to about his chin with tiny braids beside his ears. Tiny red streak on his front bangs nearly covering his right purple eye, the chimera studied his outfit. Black hat with a cat charm on it, and black and white suit with suspenders connected to his tights and lacy boots galore, the chimera turned his attention towards his assistant.

Standing next to the magician had been a young woman slightly taller than him. Long, dirty blond hair with a braided side part and ponytail sticking out, the soldier blinked at her ears and tail. Adorning cat ears, and a long light brown tail peeking through her black and teal blouse, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was this young woman a cat chimera? But, the hyena pushed such thought off a bridge. No. She definitely was not. He could not feel such a vibe from her whatsoever. Maybe the ears and tail were just props. Tiny teal hair streak peaking from her square bangs, and purple eyes almost identical to the magician beside her, and gigantic bow practically twice her own size, the early adult backed four steps away.

Young magician soon doing a card trick for some kids in the corner, the early adult waited. Man soon giving back the card the child had picked early, the soldier could feel sweat pour down his brow. What was so impressive about guessing a card correctly? Crowd soon clearing out, four eyes were soon on him. Lead magician giving him a sharp gaze, the soldier gave eye contact in return.

"Oho, so you're Her Majesty's esteemed favorite," the magician said, smiling. "Father' has told us about your various exploits around Teyvat."

A wave of confusion flowed through the hyena as such information had plowed his way. He was Her Majesty's favorite? There was absolutely no way that was the case. He had one mistake too many. He had to have been the exact opposite. Such high regard for him was unfounded. Surely, every single member of the Fatui had been labelled Her Majesty's favorite. He was one of many. What a bold claim to be made, for sure. But, he was soon brought back to reality, in a matter of moments.

"Since you'll be joining our magic show, you're going to need some practice," the magician stated. But, his assistant soon cut in.

"I'll be at the café," the catgirl assistant said, words lacking emotion. As she said such, she was gone.

Magician telling her to try to have some restraint, no answer had been returned in kind. Apology coming his way that ------- was just not used to him, the early adult shrugged. If she had no interest in joining his practice session, there was no need to force her to do so. Young man stepping in front of him, information as to where they were headed next blared a siren.

Taken back to the Aquabus, the magician introduced himself as -----. But, whatever name he had said had been cut off by the loud sound of an engine whirring underneath him. Unable to catch what he said, the early adult blinked. When did the automatic boat have a horn? It was almost as if, a word of a god prevented such name from being seen by an audience.

Ride back towards the Romaritime Harbor oddly quiet, the soldier stared at the scenery around him. Just what was he about to get himself into? There was no way he would be any good at performing magic tricks. Wasn't such a profession that had to be practiced for many years to come? He did not have such kind of time. Her Majesty would not allow it, for sure.

Passing through the Poisson Tunnel, the hyena turned his attention towards the underground pirate ship city from afar. The people in the fish city. How had they been doing since his four day absence? But, the early adult snapped himself out of such thinking. Surely, everything there was fine. He had nothing to concern himself over.

Tunnel soon completely passed through, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was he about to learn how to make things disappear? If such were the case, he knew he had to pay as close attention as possible. Needing years of practice, or not, he had to do his utmost to learn the tricks of trade as quickly as possible.

Reaching the same station he had been dropped off at, the soldier had been guided down the staircase after what felt like the one-thousand-three-hundred-thirty-seventh time. Escorted out of the area, the soldier followed behind in silence. The magician, where was he taking him to, exactly? Spotting small islands off in the distance, the early adult steeled himself.

Soon reaching a tiny beach beside a domain, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Not a single soul around anywhere, the soldier could feel a wave of unease push him out to sea. If someone were to perform a magic trick here to make someone disappear, no one was around to notice, guaranteed.

"Since you'll be joining as one of my assistants, I'll teach you some basic magic tricks," the magician said, removing a large deck of cards from his pocket.

Hearing he would be helping out with some of the magic tricks, the hyena stared off into the distance. Weren't assistants supposed to be a part of the act, not performing it? But, he supposed the term assistant was being used in a looser sense. Returning his attention towards the magician, a simple card trick had been the first order of business.

Magician asking him to a pick a card, an array of instructions had been explained in full detail. Informed when asking someone to pick a card, it had to be bent in a certain way when the revelation of which card was picked was about to come to light, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Revealing the card relied on manipulation? But, he supposed tricking people into believing you knew what card they picked was a simple trick.

Attempting the card trick a dozen times before getting it correct, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. Was this how magic worked? It definitely was not as cool as the children claimed it to be upon learning how the tricks actually worked. Many other card tricks taught as the hours droned on, the next order of business as upon him.

Lead magician stating the next trick would involve making a live creature disappear from behind a curtain, the hyena rose an eyebrow. Make a living being disappear? How was that even possible? But, as he thought such, the tricks beginnings had soon begun. Told that all he will need to do is aid with misdirection, the practice had begun.

Gigantic bird behind a curtain vanishing after many hours of practice, the early adult could not help but feel an extremely heavy amount of disappointment. Was this how the world of magic truly worked? Tricking the audience with very heavily manipulated results? He could feel his wonders begin to fizzle out like a dead sparkler.

But, the simple tricks had begun to get even less magical. Taught about a magic hat trick in which he would pull objects out of a seemingly empty hat, many instructions had been directed the early adult's way. Told to place a rabbit prop underneath his sleeves and push it through a container, multiple attempts were made.

Trying to hide the rabbit prop underneath his sleeves, the hyena's arms ballooned. Seeing such, the soldier shook his head. wasn't he being far too obvious? Surely, people would see through such a trick, in an instant. Slipping the object through the compartment, the trick failed to impress.

Attempting the trick once more, nothing of value had been learned. Magician teaching him the art of misdirection once again, the hyena scratched his cheek. How was he supposed to trick the audience into believing he had nothing up his sleeve? There was no way he would be able to pull such a feat off.

Continuously failing to pull off the trick correctly, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. How was it even possible to pull an object out of a hat without it being seen going through a compartment? This had to have been impossible. But, he supposed he did not have years of practice. There was no way he'd be able to learn such trick immediately.

Magician informing him he can just hide underneath a magic table and put the objects through the compartment instead, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. How would he not be seen underneath the table when such trick was taking the stage? What an absolutely ridiculous idea. But, he knew he did not have a choice in the matter. Nodding, a peculiar question had soon come his way.

"You are a hyena who can make his tail appear and disappear, right?" the magician asked.

Siorc jumped four steps back upon hearing such question. The magician, how did he know such about him? Her Majesty, just how much had she told the other Fatui about him? But, he knew he had no choice but to answer. Giving the young man a nod, the chimera closed his eyes. Was he about to suggest he transform as a part of the show?

"Oho, so you can," the magician responded in a tone of bravado. "Excellent. In that case, you'll be using your hat to create mist to act like it gave you animalistic features once it clears. Why not give it a practice run now?"

Suggestion coming his way to summon his hyena tail, a wave of disgust flowed through the hyena. He was going to be turned into some magical spectacle to attract the audience's attention? How awful. He was not some magic show to be used for human entertainment. But, the early adult kept his mouth shut. He knew he had no say in the matter.

Hydro delusion spewing out a blanket of mist like no other, the early adult closed his eyes as his body vanished from the singular public eyes on him. Hyena tail soon appearing from behind him, the delusional sea of fog soon dissipated from around him. Eyes on him every step of the way, a gloved clap had been directed towards him.

"Impressive skills!" the magician exclaimed. "Now, try making it disappear as I count down."

Mist engulfing him once more as the magician counted down from fifteen, the early adult closed his eyes as the world of fog took him away. Tail retracted from behind him after the young man had reached five, a sea of a specific two letter word had been tossed his way.

Told he has to have it disappear at the exact moment the counter reaches one, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He really had to reach a specific number in the count? Absolutely ridiculous. His tail disappearing was instantaneous. There was no way to delay it from disappearing. But, he supposed he would just have to make it vanish at the exact moment he counted down to one.

Making his tail reappear, the world of invisibility cloaked the soldier once more. Magician counting down from fifteen, the hyena sighed. Right, make it disappear only after the count reached one. Any earlier, and the trick would be ruined. Hearing the man reach two, the soldier closed his eyes. Mist and tail vanishing one after another, a second round of claps was gifted to him.

"Great work. Here's your outfit," the magician said, placing the magician assistant uniform into the bag behind him. "Head for the Hotel in the city in the evening for our first show." Turning around a far distance had soon been placed between the assistant and he. Card tossed onto the air, one last remark had been prepared. "Make these malicious energy sources disappear. It's an honor to be working with you."

Magician soon gone, the early adult took a long deep breath. It was time for his real mission to begin. Reading the card carefully, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. There was malicious energy sources populated around the Belleau Region again? He needed to take care of the problem immediately.

Evening time limit imposed on him, the young soldier had been off to the races. Dashing off towards the mountains, the early adult's legs erupted into a sprint speedier than a kid running off towards a candy stall in some sort of festival in Mondstadt. Taking a sharp turn across the water beds, the soldier skid the ocean waters as if he had become a mudskipper.

Reaching the opposite end of the beach where usual crab monsters gathered, a horrid stench overtook the area. Whiffing such, the hyena had come to wonder. His sense of smell, had it gotten stronger? If such were the case, it was impossible to ignore. Attempting to tune out the scent as much as possible, the soldier turned his attention towards the new challengers.

Extraterrestrial Orb creatures spinning around in a circle as they approached him, the early adult let out a gulp. The aliens from Elynas had escaped their home base once again? Why was this still happening? The hooded strangers, hadn't they had enough with such already? This time, for sure, he would battle them if they were to be near him.

Nothing but diving equipment and the magician assistant uniform packed inside the satchel behind him, the early adult let out a sigh. He was weaponless yet again. He supposed he had no choice but to rely on his hyena claws for the remainder of the day. Orb creatures coming towards him, the young soldier closed his eyes.

Human hands transforming into hyena paws, the soldier readied his claws like his life depended on it. But, such had proven to be a rash mistake. Orb monsters releasing multiple shockwaves one after another in quick succession, the soldier was pushed aside. Blasts taking the stage one after another, the sand and the chimera's possibly human rear met.

Attempting once more to make a preemptive strike, multiple knockbacks one after another teetered the scales of justice from beneath him. Shots of charged dark energy coming for him, as well, the chimera let out a shout. Why were the alien monsters so strong? He needed to try harder to get the upper hand, for sure.

Orb creatures looking ready to take him out of the picture, the chimera placed his furry paws onto his magician hat. The Hydro Delusion, surely, it could aid him in the battle in front of him. Resolute on his decision, the early adult removed the head covering. Article of clothing floating as if it were a Catalyst, the soldier snapped his clawed fingers.

Very weak pressurized water spout releasing itself from the hat's confines, the extraterrestrials had been soaked to the nonexistent bone. Creatures looking ready to shield up, the early adult lunged towards the enemies with a fervor. Claws getting in on the action, the soldier returned the hat onto the top of his scalp.

Extraterrestrial problems becoming one with nature one after another, the hyena took a deep breath. Any minute now, and the delusion would steal his life energy from him. But, he knew he would have to deal with such for the time being, if such were the case. He had to remove all obstacles.

Card informing him he would have to head towards the path near Poisson next, a rock had been tossed into the chimera's stomach. The area near the fish city was in trouble once again? He needed to clear everything out right away, or evening would sneak up on him at any given moment.

Reaching the area near the underground city after about ten minutes of speedy running, a familiar group of monsters from the week before brought down their slimy goop of doom. Bivalves chomping towards him like a yellow puck monster in another universe who devoured ghosts and fruits, the early adult put himself into a fighting stance.

Clam creatures dropping down their disgusting juices, the early adult let out a scream. If he did not fight back now, his clothes would surely melt straight off his short body. He could not allow for such crime to happen. Hyena claws on standby, the soldier switched the position of his legs.

Swiping his claws forward, the animated sea creatures had become a collection of inedible dishes one after another. But, as many were defeated, another group came out of the waterworks. Goopy geysers squirting his way, the soldier grit his teeth. The clams were getting their juices all over him? How disgusting. They would pay.

Claws doing the dirty work, the slimy sea creatures faded into the ether. Monsters on the surface soon defeated, the soldier brushed his palms together. But, such celebration was cut short at the sound of a loud shout from down below. Recognizing the scream, the early adult dashed off towards the ladder off in the corner. The sea lion sisters, had they been in trouble?

As the soldier reached Poisson down below, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. Jellyfish monsters making themselves at home in the fish named city, the sea lion sisters had been equipped with their scythes. Generic citizens slamming the doors of their houses and hiding away, the hyena's knees buckled. Were the nobodies turning a blind eye? How selfish of them to leave everything to a singular group of people.

Bain and Kali twirling their scythes around with a fervor, the jellyfish creatures floated upwards towards the ceiling of the area. Creatures floating further and further away ready to sting, jolts of electricity had begun to storm the front like a certain war strategy in Inazuma. Gift of electricity feasting itself upon Aigre, a shout soon hit the ceiling.

"Owie!" Aigre shouted, lip quivering. "These monsters are meanies!" But, as she said such, the creatures brought down their electricity once more.

"Aigre!" Bain shouted. "Pay attention!"

"Aigre!" Kali shouted. "You're provoking them!"

Knowing that he had to step into action, the soldier tossed his hat into the ring. The magician head covering, surely, if he threw it towards the enemies, the attack would go off itself from afar like it was some sort of catalyst weapon. Snapping his fingers as the article of clothing soared towards the enemies, pressurized delusional waters clouding around the electricity, static took the stage.

Hat coming back to him like it was some sort of boomerang, the hyena blinked. The delusion, just how advanced was this one? No energy surrounding him as the first round of stinging creatures dissolved into nothing, the early adult observed the area around him. Many more plaguing the fish city, the chimera would not falter. It was time to clear the area of its fishy issue. But, as he readied to run off towards the next enemy, fingers tugged onto the back of his uniform.

"Pirate mauve! Help me!!" Aigre shouted. "The jellies are attacking me!!" Creatures soon surrounding her as she said such, a series of stings turned her hair into a fuzzball. "Owie! Mauve! Please, help!!" She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Kiddo, these jellers are real fierce!" Round of stingers clapping down on her once again, she let out another scream. "Owie, owie, my hands, they won't move!"

Knowing he could not sit around and watch, the soldier's magician hat tossed itself into the ring for the second time of the day. Article of clothing laying down its delusional geyser of doom, the electricity driven attack had been the monster's undoing. Far off distance attacks doing their bidding, and idea had popped into the soldier's mind. Everyone else throwing projectiles of their own? Could that work, as well?

Turning his attention towards Bain and Kali, the soldier spun around in a circle as if ready to throw something. Repeating the action thrice over, the chimera gave eye contact to two of the three sea lion sisters. Duo looking as if they understood, the hyena turned his attention towards the youngest. Aigre not paying any attention whatsoever, the soldier shrugged. Maybe she would follow along after the fact. Questions soon arising, the early adult readied himself for battle.

"You want me to throw my anchor of fire towards the jellyfish?" Bain asked. "Are you sure?"

"And, you want me to toss my trident of electricity?" Kali asked. "Um, why? Do you really think that will work?"

Giving the sisters a nod, the girls shrugged. Hearing one of them say if he says so, energies flowed through the sea lions. Horrifying anchor of flames floating above Bain's fingertips, the young lady spun around in a circle. Ship docking tool tossed off from afar, multiple sea monsters faded into piles of nothing.

Trident of electricity rounding up a group of stinging monsters into their own boomeranged demise, as well, Aigre threw herself back into the ring. Screaming she wanted to have a try at the action, too, a collection of rocks soared across the sky. Fish about ready to become seafood at any given moment, the final set of cards had been laid in front of the hyena.

Final rounds of jellyfish becoming one with the waves, the soldier could feel sweat pour down his brow. Where could these creatures have possibly come from? Had they released themselves from the small water body towards the bottom of the tiny city? He supposed such could have been a possibility. Knowing it was time to move on, the chimera prepared to stage his exit. But, a loud sniffle stopped him in his tracks.

"Captain Vert is going to be so mad at me for hurting the jellies, sissie!" Aigre cried, sniffling loudly.

"There, there, Aigre, he won't be mad at you," Bain responded, patting her sister on the back. "We had no choice but to attack them. I'm sure he'll understand."

"I'm pretty sure those weren't, um, wildlife, Aigre," Kali chimed in. "Maybe he won't be mad." She then turned towards the purple haired person. What was his name again, skirt? No. Siorc. Right, it was Siorc. She had to thank him. "Um, Siorc, right? Thank you for helping." She paused for a moment. "Suddenly, a lot of these things started appearing here, and their energy is err, chaotic."

Gratitude coming his way, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Hyena hands becoming human ones, the soldier curled his fingers into a circular shape. Swirling his hands towards his chest for a moment, no problem had been signed on public display. Knowing he had continue onward before evening were to arrive, the chimera dashed off towards the ladder in the corner.

Sprinting off towards the northeast area, a peculiar set of machines leaking black energy overtook the area. Seeing such, the hyena tilted his head. How did these get here? He needed to destroy them before they could cause any problems. Putting his left leg behind him, the force was with him.

Currently human leg rammed into the machine, the hyena let out a scream. But, the early adult would not falter. Surely, giving it another greeting with his limbs would do the trick. Knee taking an immediate beating, the chimera grit his teeth. But, he knew he could not give up. It was time to tango once more.

Thrusting his leg forward for the third time, the metal brushed against his skin once more. Inorganic object still not biting the dust the chimera broke out into a pant. Perhaps, just maybe, trying to defeat the objects with his foot was the wrong idea. Misty hat delusion doing nothing, as well, the soldier looked around the area.

Spotting a familiar block of yellow energy, the soldier collected the item as fast as his currently human hands would allow. Fontaine energy surrounding him, the hyena took a long deep breath. One last kick, one final hit with his leg had to do the trick, for sure. Preparing himself, the limb was on the offensive.

Hearing a loud crack as the energy block inserted itself into the machine, the soldier dashed off towards the next one. Action repeated multiple times, every single device that did not belong bit the dust. But, as he had begun to head towards the western slopes of the area, the strange energy tanks struck back twice over.

Sea of machines leaking out white energy from their mechanical bodies, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. The block of energy, he needed to collect it and destroy the sea of obstacles before it was too late. Running around in circles for minutes on end, one singular purple block had been obtained.

Machines rammed into for minutes on end, the energy mingled itself into the devices one after another. Slope area soon cleared out, the early adult huffed. Had the area been cleared out? Turning his attention towards the sky for a moment, the early adult studied the position of the sun.

Glowing ball of gasses looking about ready to depart, the soldier sharp teeth chattered. It was almost evening already? If there were any more malicious energy sources, he had to rush through them now, before it was too late. Reading off the next destination upon the card, the hyena made a run for it.

Final location listed as Salacia Plain, the hyena prepared himself. The only area that remained was under the seabed? If such were the case, he had to make haste. If he were late for the magic show, such would be reported to Her Majesty, without fail. Edges of the water reached after ten minutes of speedy running, the soldier removed the diving equipment from the bag behind him.

Diving suit and oxygen tank soon on, the early adult placed the goggles over his eyes. Everything on, the hyena closed his eyes for a moment. Spark resonating in his brain, the early adult took the aquatic leap of faith. Suit thrusting him downwards towards the aquatic plains, the early adult braced himself. What creature surrounded with dark energy awaited him this time?

But, as the soldier dropped down towards the peculiar glass house down under water, a sea of peculiar red plants adorning a red jewel at the top overtook the area. Seeing such objects, the early adult's heart skipped a beat. What in the world were these doing down here? He did not know why, but the flowers certainly did not look like they belonged in this part of the ocean.

Knowing he had to vanquish the invading weeds, the early adult prepared himself. Pressing a button on his left glove, the usual aquatic blade floated behind him. Swiping the weapon of water forward, the plant disintegrated. But, such was a trick of the ages. Enemy regenerating almost seconds later, uneasiness ate the hyena up like a plate of Steak Tatare.

Blade slashing the plants for minutes on end, no defeat had come the enemy's way. Attempting to get rid of the surrounding ones, as well, no progress had been made. Seeing such, a sea of questions flooded the hyena's mind. Why were the red flowers continuously returning to their original state after multiple strikes? But, such thoughts were cut short as two barely familiar faces swam by.

Underwater penguin duo flapping on by with disgusted looks on their faces, the party of two soon opened up their mouths. Saliva travelling his way like a speeding bullet, the mouth liquids of disgust decorated his diving suit as the seconds raged onward. Group swimming closer, more of their germs laced themselves upon him.

"You rich loser and your suit that swims for you!" Vidame shouted, waving her flipper upward. "I hope those Red Meanies swallow you whole, Ritchie Rich!"

Pesky underwater penguin letting out another saliva based defense, the early adult grit his teeth. Who did this annoying pest think she was spitting all over his uniform? Why couldn't they just leave him alone and let him do his work? So what he had a suit that assisted him in an exercise he was not yet able to do himself? He needed to tell them to let him do his job and send them on their way. But, as he prepared to unleash his words, spiky chains had come for his neck.

Having the automatic diving suit thrust him backwards ten paces, a metallic chain whip had been aimed at the vicious red plant in the corner. Eyes on him as the other aquatic thorn in his side kept aiming for him, the early adult kept the dodges going. These penguins, they were the worst of the ten of them so far. Metallic weapon slapping the water, the rude fly words had begun buzzing about.

"Whoops! That attack was meant for you!" Domini exclaimed, voice filled with irritation. "Hurry up, and get the flipper out of here, rich boy!"

The early adult could feel his face burn. These two flies, why couldn't they just leave him be? While he supposed he did not blame them for feeling anger over seeing someone not swimming on his own, bringing violence into it was not the answer. He needed to tell these penguins off, once and for all.

"Can't you see I'm working here?" Siorc responded, tone low. "I don't why you two feel the need to spit on me and bring violence into this, but cut it out." There was a serious look on his face. There was no way he would let this continue. Not a chance. "The status of my 'wealth' should not matter to either of you." His gloves had begun to twitch as he said such, but the early adult would not falter. "So, leave me alone, and let me do my work in peace." But, his moment had be soiled, in an instant.

"God, whatever!" Vidame shouted back. "I hope the Red Meanies eat you, Ritchie Rich!"

Penguin pests swimming away, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the surface. What a bunch of immature brats. He knew, if he were to deal with them in the future, he would have to keep his guard up. Returning to the mission at hand, the early adult studied the plants in front of him, for a moment.

Spotting a tinier collection of the red plants, the early adult slashed the obstacle to bits in a matter of moments. Moving towards the larger ones in order of one another, the soldier kept the momentum going. Smaller ones not regenerating, the hyena headed for the larger ones.

Everything soon destroyed one after another, the hyena's diving suit thrust him back upwards towards the surface. Evening ready to take the wheel at any given moment, the soldier returned his diving suit back to the satchel. Knowing he had to head for the Romaritime Harbor right away, the chimera ran as fast as his legs would carry him.

Returning to the Court of Fontaine after half-an-hour, the soldier dashed off towards the hotel. Entering the establishment, the soldier let out a pant. Magician and his assistant waiting for him at the entrance, displeased eyes from the catgirl had come his way. Seeing such, the soldier's body shook. Was he late? He needed to apologize, if so.

"Right on time," the magician said. "Change into your costume in the room I booked for you."

Key handed to him, the soldier excused himself, for a moment. Closing the door behind him, the hyena undid the buttons on his uniform. One layer removed, as well, the soldier removed the costume from the satchel behind him. Uniform pants removed, as well, the hyena slipped the stockings over his feet.

Suspenders clamping down onto him with a sharp grip, the hyena flinched. Was he locked into his own outfit? He was the clothing's prisoner. Cape trailing behind him, as well, the soldier shook like a leaf. What was this costume made out of? But, the soldier knew he had no choice but to bear it. Slipping his Vision onto the edge of his cape, the early adult stepped outside.

Magician's assistant glaring at him as she bit into her sugar cookies and cakes aplenty, the early adult's knees buckled once more. Why was she staring at him like that? Did his costume make him look hideous? Bowing an apology, the distasteful gaze remained for minutes on end.

Hour soon passing by, the crowd had begun to pour in. Second floor completely booked, an unfortunate annoyance had stuck out amongst the crowd of generic nobodies. Earl sitting down at a table in the corner, the hyena held back the urge to groan. What was he doing here? But, the soldier held back his irritation. Maybe he was a fan of the magician duo and was here to see them. He needed to kick his disgust to the door.

Show ready to begin, the magician presented himself with an ego bigger than the entirety of Teyvat put together. Presenting himself as a great magician, he would put on a show that even the Hydro Archon herself would sing the praises of. But, as his bravado kept going, a small light had been shone upon the hyena.

"I'd like to introduce you all to my new assistant!" the magician shouted.

Blinding light cast over him, the early adult waved to the audience. Questions firing about as to why he suddenly hired a new assistant, the pressure drilled a hole into the hyena's sides. Were they not interested in anyone except the lead magician? He supposed he did not blame them if they only wanted to come here for the star of the show.

Magician stating that today was going to be just a small appetizer for the full show at the opera house, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Today was just a small performance? If such were the case, why hadn't he said that earlier? But, he knew he had to focus. Time was of the essence.

Performance ready to fire off the rails, the early adult had soon been shoved underneath a table far off from everyone's viewpoint. Cloth dropped over him, a black magician hat had been placed above the piece of fabric. Magician soon stating while the old hat trick might be overdone, he will show the audience how to have a small creature pull a vision out of a hat. Inquiring a volunteer to offer theirs, only one person stood up to the plate.

Generic person offering up their vision as a sacrifice, the magician acted as though the orb of elemental powers had disappeared. Precious object of one's ambitions slipped towards him as the main star of the show's hands readied to grab ahold of the so called empty hat, the early adult dropped the god's eye through the hat compartment.

Small kitten grabbed out of the hat with the vision in hand, multiple cheers from the children in the audience fired off for multiple minutes on end. Vision soon returned to its owner, the next trick had been upon the captivated spectators. Magician stating that they have seen that same boring trick before, why don't they up the stakes a bit? Small elephant tinier than most normal ones, a bold claim had been made to the group of watchers.

Magician stating he would make the elephant disappear, the catgirl assistant had soon been gone, as well. Star of the show screaming, -------, she wasn't supposed to disappear, the audience let out a collective laugh. Hearing such, the early adult rose an eyebrow. Was this a part of the show? He could not help but feel this had been heavily rehearsed.

Infant creature vanishing after the audience counted down from ten, the early adult held back the urge to shake his head at the audience's excitement. What was everyone so captivated by? Didn't they know none of this was real? But, he supposed he should curb such thoughts. There was no way they were aware of the trick.

Audience riled up, the star of the show soon let out the next order of business. Bold claim of he can transport an apple from one table to the next, the catgirl assistant brought the forbidden red fruit to her partner in crime. Magical apple moved towards a table without anyone seeing where it came from, cheers filled the hotel. But, the final curtain call was about to begin.

"Have my tricks impressed you all? This final one will deliver!" the magician exclaimed with heavy bravado. "Hold on to your hats, folks, for I, the Great Magician -----, will have a hyena appear before your very eyes!"

Encouraging the audience to count down from five, mist overtook the area. Closing his eyes for a moment as the fog sunk in, the audience had reached the final number of one. Mist soon dissipating, nearly fifty eyes were turned towards the soldier as pupils glued their attention towards him for seconds on end.

Audience breaking out into countless cheers as the show came to an end, the early adult could not help but feel a wave of disappointment. What was so interesting about watching a show full of misdirection and lies? But, his thoughts were drowned out as a particular voice spoke volumes above the rest.

"Siorc, I'm your new biggest fan!" Earl shouted, clapping.

The early adult rolled his eyes to the sky. Earl, his biggest fan? Absolutely ridiculous. Such was not flattering, in the slightest. Audience clearing out one after another, the early adult folded his arms across his waist. Earl, his biggest fan. He'd much rather retire from the magician assistant scene than live on with such reality. Such thought however, was a pipe dream.

"Excellent work!" the magician praised. "We'll be performing a bigger show tomorrow."

Magician's assistant saying absolutely nothing to him, the early adult broke out into a sweat. Why was she gazing at him with such sharp eyes? Did she think he was replacing her as the young man's number one assistant? Such would never happen. He was merely a guest assistant. Such spotlight would never be on him forever.

Everyone soon going their separate ways, the soldier prepared to head for his hotel room, for the night. But, as he prepared himself to retire, the pesky penguin chimera walked towards him with stars in his eyes. Seeing such, the hyena let out a barely audible groan. Earl stayed behind? How annoying. He should take whatever comments he had and shove them in a steak.

"I'll go to every single one of your shows!" Earl exclaimed, passion leaking in his voice. "I'll get Malika and Baron to come, too! Kaiser probably won't, though."

Hearing Earl say Kaiser would not show up, a wave of relief washed over the hyena. One less penguin was one less thorny inconvenience, for sure. Pest amongst them all soon departing, the soldier returned to his hotel room. Wave of tiredness overtaking him immediately, the soldier slumped into the unfamiliar bed. But, as he laid his head upon the pillow, a sea of questions flowed through him.

The malicious energy around Fontaine, why had there been so much of it? He could not help but feel it had gotten too far out of control. Would more of such issue await him tomorrow? He knew he would have to deal with it, if such were the case. Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the hyena close his eyes. World of tormented dreams ready to call him back in, one final thought pushed the soldier out to sea.

What could possibly await him tomorrow?

***

"All of this magic isn't even real. Why is the audience so engaged?

Maybe none of them are
Aware of the tricks origins.
Guess that has to be the case, but
I truly don't understand. What's so great about
Cheating the person's eyes and deceive them from what

They are seeing?
Really, I just don't get it.
It makes no sense to me.
Cannot fathom any of this, but I
Know I cannot reveal it's all a lie. Play along, that's key."

Upon waking up the next morning, a loud fisted knock overtook the area. Glasses soon on the early adult walked towards the door. Twisting the knob, a tall masked woman with slightly visible auburn hair and white suit stood between the frame of the entranceway. Seeing such person, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Who was this person, exactly? But, he supposed he was about to find out.

"Sir ----- is expecting you in the same place as yesterday," the masked stranger said.

Masked person soon leaving, the hyena shut the door behind him. The magician, had he sent a Fatui Operative to remind him about the mission? Ridiculous. His memory was certainly not gone within the next day. He did not need any sort of extra reminders, for sure.

Buttons soon in the correct holes, the soldier headed for the Aquabus Station for what the felt like the thousandth time. Reaching Romaritime Harbor after a quick half-an-hour tour, the soldier prepared himself for the long day ahead of lies and deceit. But, as he reached the beaches of Fontaine, a bomb of truth had been unleashed upon him.

Giving the magician a glare, the hyena held back his forbidden questions. What dishonesty awaited him today? Whatever sort of tricks he would be roped into for the upcoming show tonight, he wanted no association with such beyond his required days to be there. Uncomfortable look on the young blond's face, the ice was soon burned.

"You look as thought you think I've been lying to you for years. So, I'll tell you what our mission really is," the magician said. There was a serious look on his face. "The truth is 'father' wants us to investigate the Oratrice." His hand was soon on his chin. "She has informed us it's suspected to be alive."

The early adult choked on a laugh as he had heard such bold claim. The oratrice, alive? There was no way that could have possibly been true. This father figure, whoever they were, they had to have been pulling the magician's legs. This was the worst trick of them all.

Magician telling him it was time to practice some new tricks, the early adult let out a groan. It was time for more deceit. What a thrilling time to be a member of the Fatui. Rolling his eyes to the sky, the hyena quickly regained focus. Sleight of hand card tricks upon him, the chimera watched in a careful manner.

Learning a card up his sleeve trick, the hyena let out a huff. What was so great about such an easy to do performance? This was not exciting, in the slightest. But, he supposed his fascination of the magic world was already a corpse six feet under since yesterday. Learning far more card tricks as the hours droned on, the next shadow trick had crawled out from underneath the sea.

Magician bringing out the cloth once again, the early adult rolled his eyes to the sky. He needed to practice another phony elephant trick? What was the point in practicing this one further? Surely, this one should have been left to his real assistant. Surely, any minute now, the catgirl would appear out of nowhere.

But, luck and the archons were not on his side. Magician stating his assistant isn't coming to their practice session, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. He supposed he had no choice but to practice the trickery of pretending a live creature had disappeared. Small puppy hidden behind a curtain, tricks of light overtook the area.

Shadow tricks practiced for hours on end, the final nail into the practice coffin had been drilled into the soldier's eardrums. Informed he would be swapping places with him inside the magic boxes, the hyena rolled his eyes. Sure, they were. There was a trap door connecting the two underneath them, wasn't there?

Feeling a trap door underneath him as he had been placed in the self proclaimed magic box, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. What an amazing magic trick, a trap door. So magical. The great magician had outdone himself this time, for sure. Pushing such snide marks aside, the early adult dropped down through the door shoot. It was best to play along, no matter what.

Reaching the other side of the box without a problem, the soldier emerged from sand land. The magician buried an entire tunnel underneath the beach? What a ridiculously convoluted setup for a so called magic trick. Doors to freedom soon opened, a line of instructions for what was to come later had come his way.

"When you swap places with me during the show tonight, head for the Oratrice and see what's up with it," the magician said. He then removed a card from his sleeves. "Meet at the Opera Epliclese in the evening." Handing his assistant the card, a serious look painted his face. "For now, continue to clear out the malicious energy sources."

Magician soon leaving, the early adult gazed at the card in front of him. Tiny piece of cardboard with a crudely drawn portrait of the owner on it, the soldier let out a sigh. Every single thing the man touched had to have his personality laid in it. Flipping the card over, the location of the malicious energy sources revealed itself.

Card informing him the malicious energy sources had appeared around the Beryl Region and Elynas for today, the soldier cracked his knuckles. The crisis had reached the area near Merusea Village once again? He would clear out the problem as quick as he were able to.

Dashing off towards the southernmost mountains of the area, a peculiar group of octopi dominated the area with a inky fist. Sea creatures dominating the land with many contradictions, the soldier cracked his knuckles. It was time for the fish out of water to become sushi on the ground. Mob surrounding him in seconds, the fight was on.

But, as the early adult prepared to turn his human hands in to hyena paws, a world of ink had been plastered upon the hyena's face. Glasses soon covered with the black goop, the world had been a pitch dark world of nothing. Goopy octopus bazookas blasting him with their ink balls one after another, His skin was a tar pit.

Lenses wiped up, the early adult put on the magician hat. Surely, the misty Hydro Delusion would be able to serve its purpose to allow for the eight limbed creatures to reach their defeat. Taking a moment to breathe, a jet of dark waters had been blown to the opposing forces, but such had done nothing.

Octopi absorbing the water as if it were its desert, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the battlefield. The creatures, did they have an immunity to the element of Hydro as a whole? If such were the case, he knew he had to use his accursed Dendro Vision. Taking a deep breath, the hyena prepared himself.

Placing distance between the aquatic creatures and he, Siorc threw down a flower frenemy. Providing silent commands to the Silk Flower fiend unfortunately brought to life by his Dendro Vision, vines slapped the octopi will full force. Pointing in a commanding manner at the lesser creatures within the group, one had been down, six to go.

Vines vanquishing four of the six remaining, the soldier pressed onward. But, as the seconds had reached their expiration, the flower fiend had left the battlefield. Had the time already been up? It was time to toss down another one and end the battle once and for all. But, such did not happen immediately.

Unable to toss down a flower friend for ten seconds, the hyena turned his head towards the sky. Did the plant fiends not wish to aid him in battle anymore? Good riddance, if so. It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, one's elemental capabilities could not be infinitely used and had to reach a state of cooldown before being fired off again.

But, such hopes had been snapped with a pin in a matter of moments. Windwheel Aster fiend dancing in front of him, the hyena returned his attention towards the battle. He supposed his elemental powers had been placed in a quick timeout mode. Silent commands provided to the fiend brought to life by his vision, vines slapped the remaining octopi a new one.

Mob of eight limbed water creatures vanquished, the early adult had begun to head north. But, as the heated pool of water was nearing, the soldier could not help but ponder. The fish out of water, someone had to have displaced them from their original home to cause havoc upon the surface world. He needed to put a stop to such right away, without a shadow of doubt.

Reaching the area near the heated pool of water, a predictable sight caught the chimera's eyes. Pitch black seahorse monsters grouping together exactly where they had appeared last time, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. It was time for round two of hyena versus the sea dragons of darkness.

First round of enemies taken out by his hyena claws after twelve slashes, the early adult let out a huff. Was that all? If the monsters were already dealt with, it was time to clear out, the next area, for sure. But complacency was an illegal drug that should not be taken. Aquatic sea creature mob dropping down spades, the third round of sea dragons versus the chimera had begun.

Next round of the army becoming sea foam upon the ground, the fourth and final round of sea horses emerged from the shadows. Creatures blasting pitch black bubbles of tar, the early adult's claws and the creatures shook hands with one another. Spark popping off in his brain as he continued, the early adult carved deeper. Bring it on; bring on all the enemies, he would take out every single one of them.

Shaking his head rapidly as the final seahorse breathed its final breath, the early adult regained reason. What in the world was he doing, letting himself get hungry for battle? He needed to snap himself out of it. His shark brain, he could not let it take full control of him. Slapping his cheeks, the hyena curved his heelless shoes off towards the west. Maybe it was time to check up on Merusea Village.

But, as he headed towards the Melusine's abode, two faces soon stuck their heads up from the deep pool of water beneath them. Splashes drowned out by the small waterfall nearby, the soldier turned his attention elsewhere for a moment. But a stream of attention grabbing words were soon tossed his way like one of the Pyro Elf Girl of Doom's bombs.

Brume and Éclater splashing their flippers about in the water with frantic looks on their faces, the early adult crossed his hyena arms across his waist. What did the pranksters want from him? If they were about to pull some sort of trick on him, he did not have any time to deal with their nonsense.

"Hey, Fatooer, didn't ya hear us splashing over here?!" Brume asked, voice raising with every second. "Help us! There's something weird going on down here, dude!"

The early adult walked off towards the left. There was something going on in Merusea Village? Sure, there was. the sea lions were up to no good, readying to fire off a prank on him, guaranteed. He was definitely not going to dive down to the ocean to become their next victim. Stepping further away, his shoulders remained cold. But, even more shouts made their wrath known in seconds.

"Bro, come on, we ain't joshing you!" Éclater cried out. "There's somethin' freaky goin' on here!"

But, the soldier kept walking. There was something terrible happening down in Merusea Village? Sure, there was. And there was ten gods in Teyvat, and three secret hidden Elements that no one could receive visions for. Whatever prank the two were about to play on him, he was not going to allow himself to be their next victim.

Orb creatures glowing with blinding white energy as he had begun heading north, the chimera blinked. What was going on with the extraterrestrials in Elynas? Cores a bright shade of yellow instead of purple, the hyena steeled himself for the difficult challenge ahead. Hyena claws dealing forty slashes to the creatures, the shields were soon up.

Placing the magician hat in front of him, the delusional jet stream had soon done its duty. Defenses down after ten strikes, one of the blinding alien orb monsters had returned to the world of whence it came. But, such had only been the first amongst the bunch of many. Feet dragged towards the next location, a beast circle awaited him with a fury.

Group of orb creatures spiraling around him as the hexagram engulfed him, the soldier's clawed weapon had done its bidding once more, the shields rolled the dice. Misty delusion doing its duty, the early adult blinked as the enemies had become dust upon the wind. The sinister orb in the magician hat, did it not have the energy draining drawbacks like the rest of them? Perhaps, just maybe, whoever was in charge of creating Delusions removed the harmful side effects.

Final group of monsters circling around him like unwanted pests, the delusional waters had soaked the creatures to their core one after another. Defeat bathing deep, the soldier prepared to leave the area. The job had to have been done now. But, as he prepared to stage his exit, the path in front of him had soon been cut off.

Brume and Éclater dragging their feet towards him as they gasped for water, the hyena clicked his tongue. Just what kind of prank were they getting ready to pull now? Why bother risking their lives for a joke? Weren't they water breathers? But, he supposed they would do anything to ensure their practical jokes would stick their landing.

"Fatooer....help.....pl-e-a-se---" Brume begged, choking on the air around it. "Me-ru-se-a v-il-ll-age i.....s i...n....d-anger." Letting out a gasp, pain slapped his gills. "Archons, air is painful." Éclater soon chimed in.

"We're really not joshing you, bro, please help us," Éclater choked out, as well, trying to speak as normally as possible. "We risked our lives to come find you. Please, help us. Our scythes are barely doin' it." As he said such, he swayed back and forth. "The air world, it wasn't meant to be."

Sea lion duo looking ready to keel over at any given moment, a ton had been dropped down upon the hyena's backside. Brume and Éclater had risked their lives to try and find him on the surface? It was terrible of him to disregard their woes for sure. He needed to go down to Merusea Village right away without question.

Reaching a very bright area underneath the secret Melusine Village, the soldier was ready for action. Gigantic squid looking about as tall as a gorilla calling itself Kong, the soldier prepared himself for the difficult fight in front of him. Creature taking seventy strikes from the weakened sea lion duo and his aquatic blade combined, the hyena returned himself to the surface world.

Evening sky settling in as he removed the diving equipment, the early adult dashed off towards the Romaritime Harbor for what felt like the ten-thousandth time in a month. Tossing himself back onto the Aquabus for the third time of the day, the Court of Fontaine was reached at the same pace, as usual.

City left behind, the soldier dashed off towards the café. Magician's assistant waiting for him with a heavy look of disdain on her face, the hyena gulped. He did not know why, but her eyes, they definitely had a high amount of bloodlust in them. Did a battle for the star assistant await him? If such were the case, he would surrender. Catgirl's teacup soon disappearing, an odd question presented itself to the crowd of generic nobodies.

"Do you want to be turned into a spectacle?" the magician's assistant asked. But, as she said such, she returned to her snack break of eternity.

Hearing such an inquiry, the early adult could feel a chill run down his spine. He did not know why, but he could sense the young catgirl assistant had a dislike bomb behind her back. He supposed he did not blame her if she did not approve of him. He was an invasive species upon her magic troupe. Giving the young woman a shrug, no answer had been returned to him.

Final cookie devoured, the time to head to the show grounds had been upon the chimera and she. Dragged off to the Marcotte Station, a quick ride upon the aquatic railways took shape faster than the soldier could say magicians were a sea of liars that could drown in their webs of deception.

Opera house soon reached, the self proclaimed greatest magician seated himself in a couch outside the theater doors. Magician's assistant stepping towards him, the soldier soon followed suit. Eyes soon on him, the soldier retained eye contact. It was time to get the second magic show over with.

"You're right on time!" the magician exclaimed. But, the assistant soon interrupted.

"I'm here, too," the assistant said. The hyena swore she could see her eyes glaring daggers at him as she said such.

Soon changed into his magician assistant costume, the soldier swore he could hear the magician whisper that he was not a permanent troupe member. Uncomfortable suspenders soon encasing him in clothing prison, the stage had been set for the show. Two hours flocking by, every single seat within the opera house was soon packed.

Peaking his head through the curtain for a moment, a familiar sea of faces stuck out amongst the crowd of generic nobodies. Important white haired man with blue streaks and suit to match, the early adult could feel his legs turn into jelly. The Iudex, why was he in the front row seat? The stage was frightening. But, his fears only increased as the seconds kept going.

Archon sitting in the highest possible seat in the opera house with a purple haired bodyguard adorning a fancy hat, the early adult let out a gulp. Why were there so many important figures of Fontaine watching the magic show? He needed to take everything seriously, or he would be the next court case.

Spotting the penguins in the crowd, as well, the early adult held back an eyeroll. But, such thoughts were cut short as a loud whisper told him to stop peeking out from the curtain. Bowing an apology, the early adult returned to the world behind the scenes. Backdrop soon opening, the main attraction of the show announced himself.

Magician welcoming the audience with an ego trip filled introduction, the main star of the show did the card sleeve trick he had performed various hours earlier. But, as he had completed it, a fact so obvious it could be called captain presented itself to the audience. Young man stating they had seen all these tricks before, it was time for something exciting.

Water tank revealing itself to the crowd, the early adult remained behind the curtain. Magician saying his sister would be escaping the box above her, the soldier's mouth dropped open. Was this man being serious right now? Lock someone in a box filled with water? What a reckless stunt. How would she escape? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. She definitely wasn't going in there in actuality. Her image would merely be projected on the water tank to make it look like she was in there, for sure.

Catgirl in the water tank, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. The assistant, where could she have been hiding herself? Surely, she was not really in there. Magic was nothing more than a den of lies. He had no reason to watch the world of dishonesty around him.

Hearing the sound of banging somewhere, a false sense of security had been sent to the audience. Magician faking a panic that the box was broken, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the blinding opera house lights above him. Star of the show claiming only an amateur would panic right now, the catgirl assistant had soon dissolved into nothing but clothing. But, such was short lived.

Young woman saying she was back, the early adult shook his head. She was just hiding behind the curtain this entire time, wasn't she? There was no way she had actually been inside the water box. Multiple bogus tricks performed after one another for minutes on end, the final trick of the night blasted it announcement to the audience.

"My assistant and I will be doing..." the magician said, pausing his speech, for a moment. "...A swap!"

Audience questioning such, the magician soon explained the details. Young man saying it was actually quite simple, his assistant and he would be swapping themselves from the audience box to the stage box, the early adult dragged himself out from behind the curtains. Barely audible whisper coming his way to remember what the discussed earlier, the early adult nodded ever so slightly that he swore the action had done its own disappearing act.

Masked person hauling Siorc off into a box with an array with star ornaments at the top, the magician told the audience to start a thirty second countdown. Hearing such, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Half a minute, wasn't that far too much time? Surely, the audience would get bored having to count down for so long.

Dropping himself down from the trap door, the magician exclaimed to the audience to count a little louder, he can't hear them. Everyone going from twenty-five to twenty faster with every tick, the early adult crawled through the passage faster. Was it just him, or was the audience counting down faster?

Soon finding himself beside the oratrice, the early adult could feel a heavy wave of discomfort take him for a ride. The golden scale, was it just his imagination, or was he hearing a heartbeat besides his own? Thumping continuing for seconds on end, a question he would soon regret flowed through him. Had someone been killed and had their body buried underneath the floorboards? Heart continuing to thump for minutes on end, the soldier kept his observations going.

Hearing the sound of deep breathing from within the scales, the soldier shook with a fervor. The otatrice was alive, it was breathing, it had a pulse, a heartbeat, everything. But, the hyena's thoughts halted themselves, in an instant as the crowd had soon reached the number five. There was no more time to think. He had to complete the people swapping trick. Returning himself to the second box, the count reached zero.

Greatest magician appearing in the other side of the box as if he had really swapped the position of two people, the crowd let out a roaring applause. Hearing such, the early adult crossed his arms around his waist. What a waste of cheers, for sure. But, one shout stuck out amongst the rest.

"World class magician Siorc, wohoo!" Earl shouted in the crowd. But, a correction had soon come to light.

"Dear audience member, did you forget who the great class magician was?" the magician asked.

Magic show soon coming to an end, the audience had begun to clear out one after another, but the soldier the Iudex had been staring at him from afar. The lead justice of Fontaine, did he see him crawl underneath the Oratrice? If such were the case, he was in trouble, guaranteed. Magician asking to speak with him in a private room, the soldier had been escorted elsewhere.

"So, what did you find?" the magician asked with heavy anticipation.

Recalling the heartbeat and deep breaths he had heard underneath the trap door world, the hyena stared off into space, for a moment, The magician, should he tell him what he heard? Would he even believe him? He knew a heavy wave of dismissals would come his way over such claim the moment he released it. But, he knew he had to. His mission had already been established.

"The oratrice is breathing," the hyena responded, voice shaking.

"It's breathing?" the magician's assistant asked, voice in disbelief.

Giving the magician and his assistant a nod, the hyena let out a gulp. The duo, they definitely, without a doubt, did not believe him under any given circ*mstance. Magician thinking for a moment, the private room had soon grown quiet for minutes on end. Such silence, however, was short lived.

"That's odd," the magician responded. "We'll have to hold a show again tomorrow to investigate."

Told to go back to the hotel for the time being, the soldier did as instructed. But, as he returned himself to the unfamiliar bed, a wave of uncomfortable thoughts wrapped vines around the chimera. The oratrice, it was breathing, it was alive, it could hear him. Wave of sleep taking him away, the thoughts entered the dream world with him.

The oratrice is breathing.

***

Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of anguish within the chimera's adult Fatui life. The cycle was a pattern of misfortune, never landing on the lucky heads side of the Mora coin. The night before him would cause the coin to land on the tails side, as well.

Before him had been a bed of sunflowers beside a foreign house he had never seen before. Seeing such, the hyena grit the dream teeth. The flowers, why wouldn't they just go away already? Nature and he were currently completely done with each other. Being in their mere presence was too much to behold. But, his dream thoughts soon changed courses.

Faceless strangers soon dropping in with an angry look on their barely visible mouths, the early adult attempted to back seven steps away. But, as he prepared to do so, flames decorated the duo's hands. Seeing such, the soldier's dream heart skipped five beats. Were they going to bake him once again? He needed to get away, this instant.

But such escape never came. Feeling a nonexistent adhesive lock his currently human legs in place, all the chimera could do is watch. Stand still like a statue as the enemies across from him were about to burn him down into a pile of ashes for the second dream in a row.

"You're always meddling with us," the stranger called out. "So, this time, we'll be meddling with you!"

"Oneself be tired of his meddling!" the second stranger shouted, wielding blue flames. "He will be sorry he meddled with the abyss!"

The early adult attempted with all his might to try and back away, but the glue remained strong, like always. What in the world was the abyss? He had never heard of such a place before. But, such thoughts were immediately cut to pieces as the blue ball of flames had begun to travel his way.

Sea of blue fire engulfing him a matter of dream seconds, the early adult let out a pained scream. Shout breaking out into reality, the soldier stopped himself from screaming further. No, he had to stop shouting, or he would be kicked out of the hotel in the mortal, waking world.

"Let it burn, let it burn, let it burn!" one of the strangers shouted. But, another revelation soon followed.

"Tomorrow, one will show him real magic!" the second stranger exclaimed to the dream heavens. "Here's his final present!"

Tidal wave of flames crashing into him like a typhoon, the early adult body had begun to toast away as the dream seconds raged onward. Feeling himself fade away in the dream world, the hyena closed his subconscious eyes. Fire engulfing him with every moment passing, one final thought took the soldier away into the land of ashes.

What did he ever do to these people?

***

"I don't understand.
Those hooded strangers, what did I ever do to them?

I meddled in their affairs? What are they talking about? I have never
Seen these people before in the mortal waking world. I have never seen these people

Before, in my entire life.
Really, I have no clue what they are going on about. Are they
Even real, or are they
A figment of my subconscious imagination?
That has to be it. They are not real.
How could I be meddling
In someone's affairs if they only exist in my mindscape?
No, they're definitely out there somewhere, aren't they?
Guess I will find out someday."

Waking up the next morning, a wave of concern flowed through the hyena. The Oratrice, it was breathing. Shouldn't he report such issue to the Chief Justice of Fontaine? Such problem, it could not go unreported. He needed to tell the highest legal authority in the entire nation. Resolute on his decision, the hyena headed for the Palais Mermonia.

Reaching the most important office in all of Teyvat, the early adult took a long deep breath. Chief Justice of Fontaine sitting at his desk doing mountain loads of paperwork, the hyena steeled himself. The Iudex, he needed to know about the problem. Very important man asking what it was he wanted, another deep breath overtook the area.

Letting out that the Oratrice was breathing and had a pulse, sharp eyes of heavy suspicions studied his uniform, for a moment. Seeing such, the hyena's heart skipped more than five beats. The Iudex, was he about to throw him into a trial for being a member of the Fatui? He should have taken his uniform off before coming here. But, he supposed it was too late, he had already exposed himself.

"I am already aware of such. I will look into it," the Iudex responded. "Why don't you deal with the other issues around the city? It would seem our usual bounty hunters have taken their bounties elsewhere, and cannot deal with the local threats here."

Hearing such fact, the early adult tilted his head. The city's usual bounty hunters were absent? Who could have the regulars have possibly been? But a seed of realization had blossomed into a flower. Robin and Raven, had they been the ones who usually took care of such things? If the hawk knew he was in his hunting territory, he would be arrowed down the next time he saw him, for sure.

Stepping foot into the city once more, a sight of many horrors awaited the chimera. Horned seahorses everywhere on the streets down below, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. The monsters, how did they pile up so far throughout the city? He needed to get rid of them before it was too late.

Sea creatures lunging towards him with all their might, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Human hands soon becoming hyena paws, the early adult slashed forward with as much energy as possible. But, as he kept the momentum going, the horns had gotten on the offensive.

Pointed weapon locking onto the soldier's arm, the early adult let out a scream. Feeling blood drip downward onto the sidewalk as the creature removed its horn, the hyena grumbled. Hydro delusion misting the red liquid away, the soldier slashed with a fury. How dare these creatures stick themselves into him. It was time for their funeral.

Sea unicorns one after another biting the dust, the early adult let out a loud battle cry. Taking down the rest of the monsters on the bottom most floor as he kept his rampage going, the screams continued. Monsters cleared out after thirty minutes of shouting, the soldier swore his hair would go blond and spiky from irritation any second now.

But, as the hyena ascended back towards the second floor, enemies of another specialty brought casualties into the world around them. Whiffing a horrid stench on the air, the early adult held back the urge to gag. What was that horrible smell? Monsters soon revealing themselves to him, the fight was on.

But, such fight proved to be one sided in a matter of moments. Creature blasting a beam of energy his way, the soldier could feel his vitality drop faster than the subzero temperatures in Snezhnaya. Knowing that, at any given moment, he would fade away, the soldier waved the invisible white flag.

But, as sixty seconds had passed, the drained energy reached a grinding halt. Feeling a small amount of life still remain, the early adult's hyena claws took to the stage. But, with every slash, the soldier swore he could feel his head spin circles. Enemy vanquished after forty slashes, the next order of business rolled the dice.

Blubberbeasts dropping their hit new idol single, Scream of Pain onto the airwaves of Fontaine, the early adult covered his ears. What in the world was that grating noise? Where cold it have possibly been coming from? Tilting his head upward with any energy that remained, the monster's location was swiftly approaching.

Reaching the aquatic walkway after fifty-five minutes of slow walking, the early adult let out a sigh. Did he really have to drive the Blubberbeast out of the area? But, as he thought such, the grating echoes around him only worsened. Covering his ears, the hyena closed his eyes in disgust. He had no choice but to defeat the enemies, guaranteed.

Poor, soft, and loud creatures becoming one with the water after ten attempts of fighting, the young soldier breathed a puff of fatigue. Surely, his job was done now. The hawk and falcon bounty hunter, whatever monsters were to come next time, it was their problem to deal with. But, as he returned towards the Palais Mermonia grounds, information bathed him in the water.

Iudex waiting outside the palace with a creampuff hair Melusine, a chill had travelled down the soldier's spine. Was it just him, or did the Melusine next to him look far more human than any of the other ones he had ever seen? Perhaps, just maybe, she was only wearing a costume. But, his thoughts were cut short as the Demoiselle joined the group, as well.

"Come with us," the Iudex said, voice stern. "Show everyone that the oratrice is breathing."

"If you need any backup, I'll help," the Demoiselle added.

Everyone packing themselves into the aquabus line leading to the Marcotte Station, the soldier stared off into space. Why were so many people heading for the opera house together? As he thought such, a seed of fear planted itself inside him. Was he about to be put on trials for his claims? If such were the case, he would be found guilty, in an instant.

Reaching the opera house, two extra faces had stuck out amongst the crowd. Blue haired young woman always claiming she was the country's archon and bodyguard right next to her, the otratrice had been risen to the trial grounds in a matter of moments. Iudex examining it even though he knew the outcome already, the nation's symbol of justice gazed at the scales, one moment longer.

"It is indeed breathing and most certainly has a pulse," the Iudex said, placing his hand on the center of the oratrice. He then turned his attention towards the girl in the back. "Lady ------. Care to explain this?" But, a protest had come his way.

"I don't know anything about this!" the apparent Hydro Archon exclaimed. "Don't look at me!"

Hearing the sound of breathing only getting louder, the soldier could not help but wonder once more. Could there have been a body inside the oratrice that was causing it to appear as though it was living amongst humanity and beyond? Placing his hand on the center of the scales, the thumping only got harder as the seconds became minutes. But, as he kept feeling the beat, a scream out of nowhere played itself to everyone around.

"The Abyss will judge you!" the scales screamed.

"Who goes there?!" the archon's bodyguard shouted in a demanding tone.

Oratrice screaming about the abyss, the soldier's eyes opened wide. Had someone tampered with Fontaine's main source of energy to play some sort of message about such area? How incredibly childish. But, he knew there was nothing he could do about it. Whoever was inside the scales making it feel alive, they were the only ones who could halt such behavior. But, as he was about to lose himself in his thoughts, a voice called out to him.

"We will keep investigating this for now," the Iudex said. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I would like to request for you to leave, for now. Return here when the magic show is ready to begin."

Told to exit the area, the soldier returned to the capital city of the area. Feeling an unusual wave of stress mounting itself beneath him like an invisible horse, the hyena dragged his feet. Coffee; caffeine. He needed to drown out the entire world with the buzz energy filler every parent wanted to keep away from their children at all costs.

Downing his first cup of coffee, a sea of thoughts threw a layer of spiky sea urchins underneath the hyena's buttocks. The oratrice, it was breathing. The oratrice, it was definitely alive. It had a mind of its own, the abyss had claimed it as theirs to cast their judgement. Heart beating as the buzz hit him, the early adult requested another cup.

Second cup of coffee downed in a matter of seconds, the thoughts continued. The oratrice, something, or something was inside it. A person, monster, a consciousness. Something had been hiding in the scales, guaranteed. A person, how could they have possibly gotten in there? A monster, how could something have crawled in there? Nothing made sense to the soldier.

Drowning all his thoughts out with five more cups of coffee, the hyena reached for another round. The oratrice, it was alive. It was breathing, it had a pulse. Why was this happening, who would do such a thing? But, as he reached for cup number twelve, a hand interfered with his next drink.

"What are you doing?" Earl asked, snatching his twelfth cup of coffee. "Don't drink you cute, attractive self into a caffeine coma!"

The hyena let out a groan. Who did Earl think he is, stopping him from drinking coffee? It was a free country. But, the early adult paused for a moment. No, it wasn't. Fontaine was the Nation of Justice, not the Nation of Freedom. Attempting to reach for cup number twelve once more, the persistent pest was on the prowl.

"Let's go for a walk instead!" Earl exclaimed, grabbing Siorc's hand.

Escorted out of the Court of Fontaine as if he were kicked out, the soldier let out a groan. Absolutely ridiculous. Who did Earl think he was swooping down like a smothering mother and taking away his coffee? How annoying, this walk had stop right this instant. But, as he tried to break free from the thorn in his side's grip, the aggravating man persisted.

Taken to the beach outside the city gates, the hyena let out a groan as Earl giggled to himself like a schoolgirl. He just wanted to hold his hand. Going for a walk? What a load of nonsense. Trying to break free from the grip once more, the early adult put on the struggle. But, the pesky penguin chimera refused to budge.

Sitting by the waves for hours on end, the hyena took a long deep breath. Maybe he did have too much coffee. Why did he drown so much down, anyway? Such drink was flavorless and not worth it, in the slightest. What in the world came over him drinking such beverage?

Evening soon rolling in, the early adult rose to his feet. Right, he had to return to the opera house for one last magic show. But, as he headed for the Marcotte Station, a sense of doom washed over the soldier. Was it just his imagination, or did nothing feel right? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. He was overthinking it, surely.

But, as he entered the opera house, the sense of doom would not leave him, even for a moment. Heading to the backstage, a predictable set of instructions had been provided to him. Magician informing him that he would once again be heading behind the oratrice to investigate it, a sea of unease flowed through the chimera. Was he about to witness a dead person any moment now?

Magic show beginning with its usual high ego bravado, normal tricks fired off one after another for a very brief period of time. But, the easy cruising had soon been cut short as the sight of a blinding light overtook the area. Light soon dissipating, the crowd let out a sea of confusion. People asking if this was part of the show, a look of unease painted the great magician's face.

Hooded strangers standing in the center of the stage as their only head covering was ready to fall off, the early adult's jaw practically dropped onto the floor. What in the world were these people doing here? Whatever they were doing here, he knew they were about to cause trouble.

"Ladies and gents! Prepare from some real magic!" one of the hooded strangers shouted. As they said such, another blinding light overtook the stage.

Portal of darkness soon dropping down, a bony wolf monster released itself from the confines. Creature letting out a roar and swinging its tail towards the audience, shouts about whether this was part of the show kicked into overdrive. Creature holding a breath as the confusion brewed chaos, fear quelling took the stage.

"Everyone, calm down!" the magician exclaimed. "I'll make this wolf disappear!" But, as he said such, a beam of energy had been aimed at the crowd.

"We are experiencing technical difficulties," the magician's assistant said. "Rebooting." But, a sinister laugh had been added to the mix.

"Nyahahaha!" One of the hooded stranger laughed. "This is what he gets for meddling!"

Wolf monster looking ready for new victims, everyone ran out of the opera house one after another. Creature blasting its beams into the red chairs out in the audience, the sound of someone putting on gauntlets in the farthest seats from the back echoed on the walls.

"Get away from my future husband!" Earl shouted, gauntlets on. But, the peanut gallery chimed in.

"Earl, no, darling, don't!" Malika shouted, reaching out her hand.

"Earl, are you crazy? You don't stand a chance against a Rifthound!" Baron shouted at the top of their lungs.

But, such shouts had fallen on deaf ears. Earl punching the monster with a fervor, the early adult's jaw dropped onto the stage's floor. Boney creature taking a serious pummeling, the soldier swore he could hear the penguin shouting muda, muda, muda, muda, muda, muda over and over again. Creature receiving fifty blows wrapped up in a gauntlet present, the fifty-first punch closed season one with the fifty-second and final blow. Wolf vanishing into the portal of which it came, a defeated shout came out from the loser's lips.

"Curses! He sent one of his lackeys here?" one of the hooded strangers asked in an irritated tone. "We won't forget this!" Jumping into a potal as they said such, the duo was soon gone.

"Wait, I'm not don with you yet!" Earl shouted, chasing after the portal. But, such had been an instant failure.

Look of utter defeat painting the magician's face, a wave of despair fluttered through the hyena's head, as well. The magic how, it was a failure today, without a doubt. Audience reduced to only five people, the early adult attempted to shoulder the burden. But, as the sorrows kicked in, a strangely dressed person stormed the front.

Strange individual stating to cancel their mission for now, the magician turned towards the soldier. Young man stating he was no longer needed right now in his magic troupe, requests to turn in his costume had come the soldier's way. Doing as instructed immediately, the outfit was returned, in an instant. But as he hung up his coat, a sea of thoughts stabbed the hyena with a needle.

All of this was his fault. The magic show failing, the bone wolf monster, he was responsible for all of this. The people in his dreams, whatever it was they didn't want him interfering with, they wouldn't have made a move if he hadn't ruined their plans. Thoughts swallowing him whole, he repeated it once more.

All of this was his fault.

Magician soon telling him none of this was his fault, the early adult could feel tears stream down his face. There was no way that was true. Informed he would get his spot in the troupe back next time, a comment from the magician's assistant's lips put more salt on the wound.

"Finally, some quiet," the catgirl said.

Hearing such comment, the hyena knew now more than ever now. The magician's assistant was rather unfond of him. Returning to the hotel room one last time, the early adult hung up his magician hat. Agent sneaking up from behind him, the early adult's legs shook. He had failed the mission. Everything was his fault. But, a strange layer of easing words had come his way as his spiral continued.

"Relax, soldier, you did not fail," the Agent said as if he knew what he was thinking. "Go back to Snezhnaya and get some fire water to clear your head."

Shaking his head, the early adult removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. There was no way he was drinking fire water. Returning to the permafrost north in a split second, the soldier walked through the icy hallways. Stepping into the soundproof room, a sea of questions threw him off a cliff.

The hooded strangers, what do they want? Are they behind everything that's happening? Earl, next time the hooded nobodies see him, they'll target him, as well. He knew he could not let such thing happen, even if he was a thorn in his side. Putting his food down, the a decision had been made. Next time, for sure, he will battle them.

Wave of tiredness overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform put away, as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, the hyena closed his eyes, but as the world of sleep were about to take him away, one final thought looped on repeat.

His magic troupe activities were temporarily on halt.

Those hooded strangers would pay for their oratrice crimes.

Chapter 6: Elton Trench Energy Horrors: Demonic Plants

Chapter Text

"These requests are just getting odder
How come I have to gather
Energy in the

Elton Trench?
Looks like it's
Those red plants
Oh, no Your Majesty.
No way will I be able to collect that.

Those plants they're
Really difficult to defeat.
Even if I grab those crystals they have, I
Need to destroy the source.
Cannot quite understand
Her logic behind this.

This makes no sense
Her Majesty asked for something else, also
I believe she said jellyfish extract?
She wants what now?

Those jellyfish under the sea?
I doubt they have actual jelly.
Maybe they do, but I don't think so, truly.
Everything makes no sense.

I know though

As soon as I go down to the
Mere baseline of the trench,

I am in danger.
No, maybe I won't be if I avoid those

Dastardly penguins.
And their visceral towards me.
Nothing stops them, and I
Guess I should be wary.
Even if they don't hurt me, I can see it
Relishing in their eyes. They want to.

Guess I have the
Ultimate underwater enemies.
And there's nothing I can do.
Ritchie Rich... what an
Annoying title. I am
Not rich, far from it.
That's how it's always is
Even so, I'll do my best to ignore them.
Everything they have to say is a wall.
Don't let them get to me at all. That is key."'

Four days had passed since the hyena had been an assistant in the Magic Act around Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Diplomatic affairs of nothing in Liyue overtaking the ninety-six hours, as usual, the chimera remained loyal, for the time being.

The sound of bitter wind screamed like a man being claimed by a snow woman like a certain Inazuman folktale. The roar of the wind had only grown louder as the days marched onward. As the month long blizzard flurried about towards the worst of it in the beginning stages, countless Fatui soldiers groaned in a discordant harmony.

The multitude of groans were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Knowing that, if he did not make haste, he would be subject to harsh freezing, the early adult rose from the uncomfortable bed. Time was ticking, he had to start moving, this instant. Throwing the rock hard covers back, the soldier had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier's uniform melted onto his partially human person, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just how much worse could this blizzard possibly get? He could not help but feel the world could soon be blanketed into snow and ice. Letting out a shiver, the early adult regained focus. There was no time to think about such things. He had to move faster, or he'll become a popsicle.

Buttons in the correct holes, the soldier removed the cover off his jewelry and accessory box. Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching black hearts adorned the chimera's hair and ears. Cold room only getting chillier, a wave of unease flowed through him. But, as he did such, the early adult stared at the wall, for a moment.

Turning his prized possessions into weapons, was this what he truly wanted? Rational brain still on, at the moment, a wave of regret flowed through him. But, the early adult pushed such thought aside. He had to keep on moving. Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, another round of thoughts bit him in the buttocks.

The gods, why had they decided he was Dendro? Whichever one decided he was such element, they had made a huge mistake. But, the early adult shook his head. He knew he had no choice but to live with it. There was nothing that could be done. Gazing at the delusional orb, for a moment, the inquiries continued.

Delusions, what could possibly be powering them? Could they have come from other gods that have different powers from the seven? But, the soldier snapped himself out of such thinking. There was no way such question had any sort of answers. Taking a deep breath, the early adult pushed his remaining thoughts into the snow outside.

Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the chimera stared at the barricaded window one final time. Snow almost half his entire height, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just how many people within Snezhnaya were suffering frostbite right about now? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. It was time to focus on the incoming workday at hand.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp about with a militaristic fervor, the early adult put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out. He had to focus. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be heading to Fontaine to clear out malicious energy underwater, and collect jellyfish extract." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. All of the energy in the world should belong to Her Majesty.

The early adult tilted his head towards the ceiling. What did the Agent just say? He has to collect what now? Jellyfish extract? What was he, a yellow sponge under the sea? Absolutely ridiculous. This had to be the most outlandish request he had ever received. There was no way he would be able to collect something like that.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be dealing with malicious energy sources and collecting jellyfish extract around Fontaine!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "Quit dawdling, and get a move on!"

The early adult flinched. Right, he cannot waste time like this. He was on the nonexistent clock. He had to stop thinking about such things. It was a crime to keep Her Majesty waiting. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult turned his attention towards the Agent.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Arm out in front of him, the chimera awaited for the gripping prison to take him away, like always.

"Excellent, let's go, soldier," the Agent responded. Slamming a bag on his subordinate's back, he soon continued. "Your diving suit has been updated with new capabilities. Use this to your advantage underwater, soldier." Gripping prison as relentless as it usually had been, the early adult stared at the frozen walls as the escort to Fontaine began.

What new capabilities did his diving suit contain?

***
"Those rich people and their stupid
Hunks of junk!
Even more of those vile villains have come down here!

Reeeeeeee, they make me so angry!
If only someone could ban rich people from
Coming down here!
How could they do this?

Their dumb suits are
Heating up the waters!
Even bringing plants from the Liffey Region with them!
Yes! It's their fault! Vidame agrees!

Doesn't anyone see that
It's impossible to ignore! These
Dastardly villains!

Those with Mora, they're to blame for everything!
Hundreds upon thousands of those red plants have appeared now!
I'm exaggerating, truly, but
So many of them constantly regenerated!

It's this rising heat problem!

But, I will triumph, and I will
End all of these rich people's crime and villainy!
These people with mora, I'm tired of

Them ruining everything!
How much more do they plan on destroying?
Everything, I bet!
Yes, everything!

And, I'll put a stop to it.
Reeeeeeeeeee, my chain whip is ready!
Every single one of you monsters, are going down.

Right after one another! The
Ultimate end to all of these charades!
If these oceans get any warmer
Nothing will survive, don't you see?
If I put a stop to this,
Nothing down here will perish!
Getting rid of the thread must happen!

That's what I have to do!
Hundreds of these plants
Eradicated, the rich will get their

Obituary, here's the Fontaine Eulogy.
Come one, come all to the
Extermination of malicious energy!
All taken care of, by yours truly!
None will regenerate this time, watch me!

This will be the end all be all,
Here's to heroics, speed
Of the ordinary water folk, me!
Shoot, Vidame, too, but mostly me!
Especially since my chain whip is sturdier!

May the rich see their stupidity blow up and
Over their faces!
No longer shall I sit by! No longer
Shall I go easy!
This time, these red meanies will be
Ended!
Regeneration no more!
So, gather round for the finale!"

Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint, the early adult stared off into space, for a moment. He supposed he had gotten used to such area being his order of operations. Taking a long deep breath, the young soldier prepared himself for the long drag downward.

Agent dragging him down the mountain, a boat had been summoned out of nowhere, like always. Placed into the wooden vessel, the chimera had been seated. Staying as still as possible, the soldier gazed at the small seaside around him, for the time being as the vehicle cruised forward.

As the boat stroked past automatic vehicles, the hyena could not help but wonder. What could have possibly been upgraded on his diving suit? But, he supposed he would find out soon enough after entering the underwater world. Vehicle only getting closer towards the harbor, the early adult remained focused.

Wooden vehicle of human power almost ready to be docked, the soldier let out a sigh. It was almost time for the most ridiculous order of them all to take over his entire workdays to come. Cracking his knuckles, the readiness switch flipped upward inside him. The time had come, everything was about to begin.

Dragged towards the stairwell, another order had come the hyena's way. Told to go find somewhere to change within the Court of Fontaine, a familiar restriction had been cast upon him. Informed he is not allowed to teleport to Elton Trench, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Such fact was being mentioned yet again? Did the Agent think he had short term memory loss? He was mistaken, if so.

Agent staging his departure, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. What was so illegal about teleporting in Fontaine? Did using technology for everyone to see garner unwanted attention? He supposed such had to have been the case at hand. Glass lift taken towards the highest possible floor, the soldier headed towards the aquabus station.

Pressing the button to call the automatic vehicle, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just his imagination, or had it been far quieter than normal here? The silence was deafening. Had it only been active in Romaritime Harbor right after a court case had been held? He supposed such had to have been the case.

Aquabus arriving after fifteen minutes, the familiar Melusine greeted him as if he were an old friend. Seeing the same one hosting the tour like always, the soldier wondered. Was she the only one employed to do the Court of Fontaine route? But, the hyena shook his head. Surely, there had to have been other workers at other points during the day.

Seating himself in the back row, the vehicle soon cruised forward automatically. Boat soon cruising forward automatically, the tour went on in silence. Not a single word escaping the tour guide's mouth, the early adult blinked. Was he making her job easier for not having to repeat the same old routine to repeating riders? He hoped such to be the case.

As the automatic tour bus passed by Merusea Village, a strange anecdote had been stated by the Melusine. Young sea creature lady saying lately, some weird things have been happening in her village, the early adult blinked. Had more unwanted creatures been causing problems there? Why wasn't anyone taking care of the issue?

Soon reaching the Court of Fontaine station, the soldier could feel a wave of unease flow through him. Fontaine, just what was going on here? He knew he was not allowed to deal with problems outside his orders, or Her Majesty would kill him for insubordination on the spot, guaranteed.

Reaching the main city, the soldier stepped forward. He supposed, he should get changed at the hotel and head for Elton Trench as soon as he possibly could. Resolute on his decision, the soldier had begun heading towards the western side of the capital city for the time being.

As the soldier kept heading towards the hotel, the soldier could not help but wonder. The Oratrice, was it still breathing? Did it still have a pulse? But, the chimera snapped himself out of such line of thinking. Why was he still focusing his attention on that? He was not assigned to look into that issue any further.

Hotel area dragging on closer, the hyena prepared himself. He would only be in there for a mere moment. Get changed, and exit. Surely, they would allow for such a quick action. Stepping towards the world of expensive dwelling, the chimera prepared himself, but as he readied to do so, a face he did not wish to see dimmed the waters.

Earl walking down the path, the early adult let out a groan. If he were to spot him, his aggravating lovestruck words would grace his eardrums once more. But, as he pressed on further, eyes darted his way. Seeing such, the soldier rolled his eyes towards the sky. Any second now, and he would be dragged off to the boutique once more.

Seeing his future husband walking towards the hotel, bag wide open, Earl's eyes practically had stars in them. Was Siorc on a mission underwater again, then he certainly needed a place to change. Why waste all his precious, hard earned mora on a hotel room? He needed to take him home right away.

"Hi, Siorc! Diving again?" Earl greeted. "Let me take you to my home so you can change!" Dashing towards him, he placed his hand on his wrist.

Dragged forward, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed he had no choice but to follow his lead. Knowing that if, he broke free from the pesky penguin's grip he would just tell him he was going with him, no ifs and or buts, the soldier let the escort continue. Hotel quickly left behind, the hyena remained silent.

Reaching the boutique after about ten minutes Earl guided him inside as if he were his wife, like usual. Pesky penguin looking ready to skip inside the early adult held back the urge to sigh a second time. Couldn't this man ever think for even a moment he had absolutely no interest in him? But he supposed the romantics were blind.

Highly esteemed fashion empire stepped through, the lower staircase had been taken, like usual. Small abode underneath reached in less than a minute, the hyena prepared himself. It was just a quick second to get changed, and then he would be on his way. It was time to get everything over with, without question.

"I'm back from Petrichor!" Earl announced. "No good business today!" An answer had soon come his way, in an instant.

"That's a shame," Malika responded. "We'll have to try harder next time." But the final sibling's eyes soon wandered.

Seeing Earl bring the Fatui boy home once again, Baron shook their head. Why was he continuously bringing this man over to their home? They could see the star struck look in his eyes. Did he still think there was even a remote chance of romance between them? He needed to get over his fantasies and see the reality.

"You brought that boy over again?" Baron asked in an exasperated tone. "You know he's not interested in going out with you."

"I just brought him here to get changed!" Earl retorted. "No ulterior motives."

"That same excuse again to bring him home with you, like always," Baron replied, twirling their hair.

Siblings yammering on, the soldier removed the diving equipment from the open bag. Blubbery suit looking absolutely no different from before, the early adult rose an eyebrow. What could have possibly been changed about his underwater uniform? Nothing looked any different. But, he supposed it would be difficult to tell what has changed from a glance.

Heelless shoes and winter jacket soon removed, the early adult placed his uniform in the bag from behind him. Heavy blubber soon absorbing his very being, the hyena held back the urge to grunt. No matter how many time he were to wear this thing, it never got any lighter.

Suit inflating as the early adult slipped the gloves over his bare hands, the hyena studied the coverings, for a moment. Noticing an array of brand new buttons, the chimera rose an eyebrow. That was all that was added, an array of new buttons? How could that have possibly been an upgrade? Whatever the new pressers did, they had better be worth his time.

Slipping the oxygen tank on and goggles, the soldier prepared himself. The Elton Trench, what possible world awaited him below the sea this time? Whatever malicious energy source he had to clear out, he knew he would have to do so to the best of his ability before the penguin dwellers down beneath were to spot him. But, as his thoughts pressed onward, Earl's grating voice interrupted his food cart of thoughts.

"So, where are you headed for today?" Earl asked.

The hyena held back the urge to roll his eyes towards the ceiling. Why was Earl so interested in his line of work? He should focus on his own career in the fashion world, and stop asking him about whatever he was up to. But, he supposed he could humor him with an answer so he wouldn't inquire any further.

"I am heading to Elton Trench, sir," Siorc responded, voice barely audible.

Hearing his future husband state he was going to Elton Trench, Earl's face turned various shades of blue. He was heading to the biggest water body in Fontaine? There's no way he could allow him to go there alone. That particular underwater area was full of dangers right now. He had to help his man out. Maybe, if he were to assist him, he'd finally let him become his wife.

"Elton Trench? It's full of Red Meanies right now! It's not safe!" Earl shouted, he then turned towards Malika. "Malika, is it okay if I help him out?"

"You finished your shift already today, so feel free!" Malika responded. "But, come back home in time for supper!"

Earl giving the loudest yippee known to man, the hyena let out a groan. Why was this thorn in his side always so eager to help without a second thought? How strange. Surely, the Red Meanies weren't so dangerous that he couldn't take them out alone. But, he knew it was a waste of time to tell him off. Persistence was an incurable virus.

Reaching the Aquabus station at lightning speed, another exception to the rule had been made. Earl telling the tour guide to make a stop towards the Poisson Tunnel, the early adult shook his head. Was that really necessary? Heading for the trench near the Romaritime Harbor had to have been the quicker way to get there.

Melusine agreeing to the request, the early adult placed himself as far away from the fashionable penguin pest as possible. As the automatic vehicle kept heading closer towards the tunnel, the hyena steeled himself. Those red plants under the sea, were they back at it again? Surely, they weren't nearly as dangerous as Earl claimed. He had to have been exaggerating as a way to invite himself in his affairs, for certain.

Aquabus reaching its destination faster than the chimera could count to four-hundred, the soldier blinked. Had the ship been set onto turbo mode? But, the early adult pushed such thought aside. He had to have been overthinking it. Maybe he had just gotten used to the ride by now that everything felt instant.

Jumping down to the ground like the various times prior, the pesky penguin dashed off towards the southern path. Seeing him gain speed as he kept on going, the early adult crossed his heavy arms around his waist. Surely, just running to the trench from the Romaritime Harbor station would be easier than heading through Poisson. But, he supposed it was too late for that outcome.

As the party of two kept heading south, the early adult could not help but notice a rather peculiar instance around the area. Spotting jellyfish floating on the surface world, an array of questions soared through the chimera's partially human mind. How had such creatures gotten on land? There was no way they could survive in such a way.

But, the chimera pushed such thoughts away. There was no time to think about the jellyfish, at the moment. Collecting their extracts would have to wait, for the time being. Doing both tasks at the same time would throw off the balance. No matter what, he had to start with the first task at hand.

West Slopes dashed through, the early adult turned his head towards the right. Strange tower off in the east glowing with a mysterious aura, the hyena's heart skipped a beat. Would he have to go to that place someday? But, the soldier stopped such thoughts of nonsense. He needed to focus. No more letting distractions get the best of him.

Beach near the trench soon reached, Earl took the dive of the century. Penguin already down under, the soldier took a long deep breath. It was his turn now. He had to drop down to the bottom and fight the Red Meanies. Closing his eyes, for a moment a spark synched with his brain. Diving suit ready to go, the soldier dipped his toes into the water.

Automatic swimsuit pushing him downward, a sight to behold caught the hyena's attention, for a moment. Earl in full penguin form below the neck, the chimera's shoulders turned cold. Why should he pay any attention to such transformation? Paying him no mind, he kept being swam automatically further downward.

Soon reaching the bottom, an entire sea of bright red flowers with odd crystals awaited the soldier. Seeing such, the soldier rose an eyebrow. Weren't those the plants he saw in the last week prior? How had even more grown since then? Something was off about the entire situation presented to him.

"Those are the Red Meanies," Earl explained. "We need to get rid of them!"

But, as the pesky penguin yammered on, a disturbance had been in the force. Was it just his imagination, or had the Elton Trench been far warmer than normal? Surely, he had to have been imagining it. There was no way the ocean beneath was hot. He should not let it get to him.

Earl slipping on penguin flipper shaped gauntlets, the soldier held back the urge to gasp. He had boxing gloves on the ready for when he wasn't in human form? How incredibly practical. If only there were shoes for his feet when they transformed into hyena limbs, such would be an excellent way to keep them hidden. But, the hyena pushed such thoughts aside. Desires were not allowed to be voiced by him, in any given situation.

Pesky penguin attempting to punch the life out of the malicious plants in front of him, the early adult stared at his gloves. Would punching them alongside him get rid of them? He supposed it was worth a shot before testing out the new features bestowed upon him. Rolling his shoulder, the young soldier readied to swing and hit.

Punches of nature hitting the malicious plant enemy in the corner, the soldier's physical pounds had been brought to the table. Plants disintegrating, the early adult let out a sigh of relief. Was it really that easy to get rid of the problem? Maybe brute force was the answer after all.

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on the hyena's part.

Red Meanies regenerating in an instant, the soldier's eyes twitched. The plants, why did they come back as if they were never defeated? What in the world had just happened? Surely, if he punched them again, they would go away. Knowing that had to have been the solution, the hyena brought his fist to the enemy.

But, such continued to be a proven failure. Enemies regenerating almost immediately, the soldier's suit pushed him backward. The plants, why were they coming back from their defeat on a continuous loop? Surely, they had to go down once knocked out. Attempting one last punch out, the hyena prayed to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship that the would vanish.

Such was a pipe dream. Earl stopping his planty assault many seconds prior, the hyena's knees buckled. Was he giving up already? What a quitter. If he was going to stop, he had no business inviting himself on his team. But, such thoughts of disdain were thrown to the bottom of the ocean immediately.

Earl studying his left glove for a moment, an epitome had washed over him like Celestia had given him a halo. Pointing to a button that said Xenochromatic Energy Bomb the early adult blinked. Where did his glove say that? Seeing very tiny scribbles at the bottom of the clicker, the soldier almost let out a strange noise. How could anyone read such small print?

Pressing the button, a tiny ball of water had been thrown into the center of the many red plants on the sea water grounds. Earl swimming towards it stating he'll give it a nice whack, his penguin flipper gauntlets did the talking. Small scale explosion doing the honors, all the plants had been swooped up into the chaos instantaneously.

Ecological enemies taken out of the equation, the early adult took a deep breath of relief. They were gone now? If using a water bomb were the answer, the fights going forward would be easy, for sure. Pesky thorn in his side swimming forward stating there's many more, keep going, the soldier's automatic diving suit thrust him northward.

Group of plant monsters down below forming an almost endless dozen of themselves, the soldier could feel his heart skip two beats. Just how many of these objects existed here? Whoever planted these things had to have some sort of ulterior motive. Earl turning to look at him, an idea had been stated.

"Doesn't seem like these ones can all be taken out at the same time!" Earl exclaimed. "Let's aim for the biggest ones first and go from there!"

Doing as suggested, the chimera dropped down the water bomb of doom. Water ball of explosions placed in the center of four plant enemies, Earl stepped up to the plate. Gauntlets doing their duty, an aquatic boom took the stage. Four plants disintegrating, a tiny scale celebration lasted a few seconds.

But, such party had been quickly cut short. Enemies regenerating as if they never left, the hyena grit his teeth. Why had they come back? Surely, destroying them in a group was the answer to the equation in defeating them. Apology coming his way for making assumptions, the group of two returned to square one.

Coming across tinier plants in the corner, encased in a sea of vines, the chimera could not help but wonder. Would destroying the smallest ones first be the correct order of business? He supposed it was worth a try. Vines soon cut, the tiniest of the bullish plants revealed itself from its encasing.

Watery blade taking the enemy out of the equation, another sea of small plants soon revealed themselves around the area. Knowing he had to get rid of them as soon as possible, the second strike was soon created. Every tiny obstacle soon removed, the chimera pressed the leftmost button.

Watery explosive dropped down, another planty punch had come for the bomb upon the ocean floor. Small scale denotation letting out a boom, the plants had been removed from the picture, in an instant. Strange jewels dropping down as they disintegrated, the chimera scooped them up into his gloves.

Earl informing him there was more where that came from, the soldier followed behind in silence. Just how many Red Meanies had grown underwater? But, he supposed he would just have to continue clearing them out for the time being. The choice was not his, if he wished to continue living.

But, as the main body of water approached, a sight he did not wish to witness closed in on his heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Underwater penguin duo swimming by, a set of disgusted faces painted them. Knowing that, at any moment, they would get on the offensive, the soldier attempted to have his diving suit sideswim them. Such, however, had been a notion too late. Their pupils were already glued to him.

Stupid Ritchie Rich coming by with his expensive diving suit, Vidame slapped her left flipper against her right. How dare this annoying rich guy come back down to the Elton Trench. It was the wealthy people's fault the waters were getting hot down in the trench. He needed to be taught a violent lesson to remind him he was not welcome down here.

Annoying rich guy with their surface world cousin stroking his money around like it was no one's business, Domini's pale face grew red. Why did he think he was allowed down here with his disgusting, million mora equipment. He needed to get out of here, and take his pollution elsewhere.

"Why, I oughta!" Domini shouted, summoning a chain whip. "Ritchie Rich, get out of here!" As he said such, he tossed the chain forward.

"I thought we made it clear that you're not allowed down here, Ritchie Rich!" Vidame said, rolling up a punch. "This'll teach you to not--" But she was soon interrupted.

"Vidame, Domini, stop!" Earl shouted, cutting in between the two of them. "Leave him alone! He hasn't done anything!"

"It's the rich people's fault those Red Meanies left the Liffey Region!" Domini shouted back.

The early adult could feel his blood begin to boil. Why did these pesky penguins always try to blame him for whatever problems were going on down underneath the Elton Trench? He was not responsible for the red plant monsters growing there, whatsoever. What did his wealth that he did not have have anything to do with it? But, the hyena kept himself quiet. He knew retorting back would be a waste of his time.

Earl destroying the plants in one fell swoop as the penguin family attempted to argue about the subject, the early adult's heart dropped into his stomach. Had anger about what Vidame and Domini said fueled him? Rage was the most powerful emotion in the world, indeed.

"Trust me, cous," Earl said to Domini. "He couldn't have possibly caused any of this!" But, Vidame soon cut in.

"You're lucky you're family!" Vidame shouted, balling her flipper into a fist. "Or, we'd pummel you right about now!"

Penguins swimming off speedily, the soldier blinked in a rapid manner. Did the biggest of the penguin pests just swim away? But, he supposed, the less penguins he had to deal with, the better. Earl informing him they had to continue onward towards the northern path, the early adult stayed behind, for a moment.

Jewels scooped up rather quickly, the hyena had his diving suit thrust him forward. Reaching the northern area far off from the plains, another sea of Red Meanies awaited the penguin and he. Plants glowing with a strange aura, the soldier prepared himself. Placing down the watery explosive, the next round was about to begin.

Earl punching the explosive, the plants disintegrated faster than a speeding bullet on the surface. But, such had been a magic trick gone wrong. Enemies regenerating quickly after and adding some friends, a wave of uneasiness flowed through the chimera. Some could multiply? How terrifying.

Encouraged to try and drop down two bombs at one, the soldier did as instructed. Plants absorbed blowing as the tag team continued, the next collection of jewels had been scooped up in a matter of moments. Heading off towards the west shortly after, the next fight was on.

Next set of plants looking ready to multiply at any given moment, the soldier dropped down another explosive. But, such had proven too early. Triple threat plant soon taking the stage, the hyena held back the urge to scream. Just how many more of themselves could these plants summon? But, he knew he had no time to think about it. He had to destroy them pronto.

Explosives not doing justice as the plant's multiplication continued, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Why were their numbers continuing to grow? Maybe it was best to aim for the smallest ones and then destroy the main perpetrator of the sea crimes first, and foremost.

Tiniest taken care of first, the soldier kept the momentum going. Multiplied enemies reduced back to their original flow, the soldier was ready to fire and aim one final time. Letting out a battle cry as the last of the balls of exploding prowess had been dropped, the pesky penguin beside him threw himself into the ring.

Victims sent to a nonexistent realm of shadows, the soldier could feel sweat pour down his brow. Had everything around the Trench been taken care of? Water not cooling down, even a smidgeon, the hyena could feel sweat pour down his face. The job was not yet done, guaranteed.

The hard switch had soon been flipped.

Reaching Salacia Plain after a small automatic swim over, the chimera's soul practically left his body at the sight before him. Red plants making a strange formation around the plains into some form of collective vine giant, the hyena could feel himself begin to shake with a fervor. This could not have been normal activity for such species guaranteed.

Explosive not doing its duty to the plant tower of doom, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Had the enemies taken on a new form? If they were immune to the main attack that could vanquish them, it was toast, over, done as dinner. Second attempt proving to be as useless as the first, a doom seed grew in the chimera's mind.

Earl soon peering at his glove once more, the hyena held back the urge to groan. Did he really have to keep looking at his gloves for answers? How incredibly aggravating. But, he supposed he should hold such judgement. The print was far too small to read, anyway.

"Maybe try this one?" Earl asked, pointing.

Flipper pointing at a button labelled, Xenochromatic Echolocation the soldier blinked. How was echolocation supposed to be of any use here? But, the chimera supposed it was worth a try. Pressing the button, the soldier placed his hand out in front of him. Perhaps, just maybe, he was onto something.

Peculiar pulses releasing themselves from the palm of his glove, multiple enemy plants fell out from their high formation. Seeing such, the early adult kept going. Earl saying he'll leave this spot to him, the aquatic soundwaves continue to fulfill their duty one wave after another.

Tower crashing downward, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Peculiar blue jewel dropping from the remains, a wave of questions flowed through him. How could such be left inside these plants? Could it have been the source of the heat issues?

Heat not lowering even a little, the hyena cut such thoughts up with a scissor. Perhaps he had to keep going in order to find what he was looking for. Suit thrusting him towards the northern path for half an hour, something of eventual note caught the chimera's attention.

Spotting a glass domed room in the corner, the soldier pressed his hand against the door. Had something been in there? Wanderlust taking the stage, the chimera broke in and entered. Entrance made out of water, the door did not hit him on the way in. Observing the room in front of him, marvels awaited.

Small room with a gramophone on a table and books aplenty, the soldier could feel a wave of fascination flow through him. Was this someone's research facility? What an incredible place to keep one, if such were the case. But, the early adult soon exited the area. There was no time to look around in such place, his work was not done yet. Returning to the seafloor, the soldier braced himself. As he approached, however, Earl's grating voice interrupted his thoughts.

"You have to collect those land jellyfish, right?" Earl asked.

Hearing Earl's question, the soldier nodded. Maybe the pesky thorn in his side was smarter than he gave credit for. Soon told he'll go find him when it's time for supper, the soldier had the automatic diving suit ascend him back towards the surface. Belleau Region in front of him once more, a strange premonition flowed through the hyena.

The crab cave on the beach, he did not know why, but he could sense there had been many of the jellyfish down there, as well. Knowing the cave had been quite further south than he currently was, the chimera's currently human legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Beach reached after about twenty minutes of running, the soldier let out a pant.

Descending towards the ocean bed once more, the soldier's suit steered him towards the crab cave faster than he could blink. Reaching the surface as quick as lightning, intuition scored one-hundred points on he invisible test. Jellyfish everywhere linking pink goop, the hyena dug through his satchel.

Finding a large jar practically twice his size, the early adult crinkled his nose. Did the Agent really think this huge of a container was necessary? But, he supposed it wasn't right for him to question such. Fluids collected one after another, the hyena held back the urge to gag. How disgusting. The creatures before him were certainly not normal.

Returning to the surface for what felt like the third time of the day, the early adult dashed off towards the West Slopes. Recalling there had been various other jellyfish on the surface in such area, the soldier was off to the races. Surely, after collecting these, the jar would be one-fourth of the way full.

Spotting more than twenty in various parts, the soldier prepared himself. He had to keep going, no matter what. Dashing off towards the first batch of three, the creature's barbaric juices flowed down into the jar. How could anyone find this enjoyable? He was in the wrong world, for sure.

Moving onward towards the second batch, five more rounds of juices dropped into the container of disgust. Eight down, twelve to go. Throwing himself towards the next order of business, the container continued to fill itself up. Doing his utmost, the early adult kept going.

Every amount of extract within the area collected, the hyena let out a grunt. What did Her Majesty need this so called Jellyfish Extract for, anyway, special Snezhnayan hamburgers? What an absolutely ridiculous request to be made. Jar nowhere near full, the soldier resisted the urge to wave the white flag. He had to keep going, no questions asked.

Figuring it was best to attempt to look for more around the Poisson area, the hyena dashed back towards the northern area of the map. Soon finding himself beside the boat city, the soldier could feel a wave of fear flow through him at the sight of long, stringy jellyfish looking ready to sting at any given moment, the chimera's knees buckled.

Finding a slingshot at the bottom of his satchel, the early adult's eyes fluttered in a rapid manner. How incredibly convenient for such to have been in his bag of supplies. It was almost as if such convenience was placed to push a story along. Small rock soon catching wind, the threat was lessened in a matter of moments.

Gruesome juices releasing themselves from the creature's stingers, the early adult grit his teeth. Was he witnessing real life right now? This had to have been a dream. Or, perhaps, just maybe, the creatures before him were artificial. Whichever the case, the disgust remained.

Rest of the army above Poisson done and juiced, the soldier swore he could hear screams coming from the underground city. Knowing it was best to not ignore it, the early adult descended the ladder beside the waterfall. But, as expected, a predictable scene played out from the hidden world beneath the Belleau Region.

Bain and Kali chasing after Aigre as if playing some sort of game of tag, the soldier rose an eyebrow. Was this really the time to be playing such an activity? Multiple jellyfish making their presence known in the area, the hyena resumed his collections, although such had been short lived as the game of chase intercepted with his work.

"Could you stop running, Aigre?" Kali asked, panting. "Please, have mercy."

"No!!" Aigre retorted. "Captain Vert said evil jellies are attacking our ship! I gotta stop them!" Seeing Mauve in the corner of her eyes, she swerved her feet, for a moment. "Come on, crewmate!! We have to save our ship!" Taking the wrist hostage, she dashed off towards the pool in the corner. But, protests soon came her way.

"Aigre, how many times do we have to tell you?" Bain screamed out, running. "Stop involving strangers into your shenanigans!"

"Didn't you say that you're not supposed to hurt jellyfish, or something?" Kali asked, running. "Stop this, Aigre!"

"You don't understand Sissie, Sisser!" Aigre shouted back. "These are evil jellies!" Dropping towards the water hole, she readied herself to hop in. "Quickly, crewmate!"

Dropped down into the water world beneath Poisson, multiple green gelatinous fish awaited the soldier. Aigre demanding he defeat every single one of them, the early adult almost wanted to pull every strand of his hair out until he were to begin balding. Why did he ever allow himself to be dragged into this young woman's shenanigans, he didn't have time for this.

Water blade doing its various duties,

Creatures swishing towards him, the the soldier let out a huffed breath green goop adding itself into the jar, the chimera looked away. Whatever Her Majesty was about to use this collection of extract for, he wanted no part of it, whatsoever. But, as the final creature sung its swan song in the area, a round of begs had come his way.

"Please, we have to go to the Scorching Cavern next!!" Aigre begged, flippers twisted together. "Then, my ship!"

Knowing he had no choice in the matter, the chimera forced a nod. Hearing Bain and Kali chasing after from behind, the hyena shook his head. No matter where Aigre went, her sisters certainly followed. Volcano cavern getting closer with every stroke, voices trailed from behind.

"Aigre, they're just Tidalga, you don't have to go out to that cavern again," Bain said in a stern tone.

"What Bain said. Tidalga are harmless. I think," Kali said in a scolding tone. "So, um, turn back."

"They're not regular Tidlaga!" Aigre shouted back. "They're evil! Mauve and I have to exterminate them!"

Sea lion sisters waving an invisible white flag, the soldier kept following from behind in silence. Diving suit thrusting him downward and then towards the cavern, purple tidalga awaited the hyena. But something had been rather peculiar about them. Creatures surrounding themselves around rings of water, the early adult thrusted towards them.

First jellyfish collected near the ring, the hyena tilted his head. Why was there pink energy flowing around him? How incredibly strange. But, he supposed he could have to keep going to find the answer to such question buzzing about. Peculiar ring thrusting him forward, another wave of the creatures was soon taken.

Eight more soon obtained in quick succession of one another, the soldier could not help but continue to wonder. Were these tidalga truly evil as Aigre claimed? She had to have been exaggerating such, for sure. Another round of them soon taken from their spots, the chase was on.

Final set of jellyfish collected, an entire army surrounded the soldier. Juices dropping themselves into the jar shortly after, the early adult looked the opposite way. Couldn't there be less of such activity? Disgusting. No more. But, as he thought such, Aigre's demands brought him back to reality.

"Aah! My ship! I know there's more there!!" Aigre shouted. "Quickly, quickly, we have to go there!"

Knowing he had no choice but to head there, the early adult followed the lead sea lion, mermaid rather, towards her ship. Shipwreck area soon reached, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Blue tidalga doing absolutely nothing of note, the hyena crinkled his nose. Aigre sure had the colorful imagination, didn't she? But, the chimera kept himself quiet. It was not in his place to say such.

Seeing her crewmates boxing multiple jellyfish in a struggle fight, Aigre's flippers grew colder than a winter night. The evil jellies, what were they doing? Creatures looking ready to sting Captain Vert's hair to oblivion, she turned towards her leader. Heroic punches continuing, a plea broke out.

"Free us, Aigre!" Captain Vert pleaded. "Get rid of them."

"I will, Captain Vert!" Aigre shouted. "Mauve, please, help me get rid of them!"

The hyena blinked of bewilderment. Get rid of the tidalga? But, they weren't doing anything. Aigre changing the pitch of her voice again saying to free them, the soldier clicked two and two together. Did her captain request this? He supposed he should do her the favor and remove them from the equation.

Slingshot doing its duty, the creatures fell from grace. Extracts collected, a sea of gratitude from Aigre and her invisible crew took the stage. Not spotting any more jellyfish, the soldier returned to the world underwater, but as he had done so, a familiar face stuck out amongst the sea.

Blond diver boy staring at a malicious red plant in the corner, the early adult let out a gulp. Had there still been more he had to deal with? If there were some he had forgotten, he had to get to them right away. Young man looking ready to speak, daring questions threw darts on his chest.

"Our orders are to destroy these red plants," the blond diver boy reminded him. "Have you not been doing hat?"

A chill dropped down the chimera's spine. The diver Fatui, had he been made aware of his duties? Whoever had assigned him to deal with the Red Meanies, he had to have let him down for not heading towards the western side of the trench, for sure. Had he done the extermination out of order? If such were the case, Her Majesty would kill him, guaranteed.

Giving the diver boy a nod, the soldier pointed off towards the eastward direction. Writing out Elton Trench on the water, the early adult looked into the young man's eyes. Diver pondering for a moment, the early adult could feel doom wash over him. He had to have made a mistake of some sort.

"You took care of the ones in the east?" the diver boy asked. "I thought our orders were to destroy them everywhere."

Placing his hand out in front of him, the hyena drew out on the water that he had other engagements to attend to, the diver boy looked as though he were about to say he sees. Not wishing to hear such response, the soldier ascended towards the surface. Evening sky hitting in, Earl dashed off towards him.

"There you are! The Red Meanies have gotten a lot worse! But, it's time to stop for today!" Earl exclaimed. "We need to go back home for supper!"

The hyena's heart skipped three beats. The red plant issue had only gotten worse since he returned to the surface? Maybe he shouldn't have left to collect tidalga extract. But, it was too late to take such action back. What was done had already happened. Soon returned to the boutique after about forty-five minutes of the aquabus ride back, rich people dinner awaited.

Juicy barbeque ribs devoured, the soldier turned his attention towards the couch. Kaiser's arms bandaged from the fingers all the way to the shoulder as he laid on his side sleeping, the hyena could not help but feel a wave of unease. Had he done something worse to himself? He supposed he would need to continue to put his thoughts of annoyances at the door, for the time being.

Feeling a wave of tiredness, the early adult headed for the guestroom. Malika insisting he stay until his mission was complete, the chimera knew refusal was not being given to him as an option. Slipping into the unfamiliar bed, the hyena closed his eyes. But, as he drifted off into the dream world, a regret tied him up into knots.

He should have remained underwater to help.

***

"Will you look at that!
Over there in the air breather world,
Are those jellies!
How did they get on the surface parts of Merusea Village?

Brume, bro, does he know?
Right, he doesn't know what I don't.
Oh, maybe our Melusine sisters know!

Well, we ask one of them.
However, her response is the same
As Brume's.
They don't know.

Ahh! Well, if they don't know, who will!
Right, what was the name of that dude who
Employed us to be the water defense force.

The Roodex? The rudex?
Huh, that's not right, is it?
Éclater, think, think. My brain may be
Small, pea brained, according to our sisters, but
Even at that size, it still works right!

The Iudex... Chief Justice. Oh, I got it, cha-ching!
He aught to know!
I should ask one of our Melusine sisters to ask Monsieur
N---------- about it. Since we can't
Get there ourselves!
Surely, he would know about this debacle!"

Waking up the next morning, the soldier swore an army of ants had been dropped down into his pants. He has to go out to the sea now before it was too late. Any second now, the Red Meanies would make the water hotter, and cause worse issues for the Elton Trench denizens. Baron soon stepping into the guestroom, an offer came his way.

"Earl's heading towards Lumidouce Harbor today for work," Baron said, voice monotone. "I'll be going with you today to Elton Trench." Stepping out the door, their back was turned. "Let's go. The Aquabus is about to leave in ten minutes."

Taking the Aquabus after what felt like the ten thousandth time, the chimera could not help but wonder. Just how much worse had it gotten down in the Elton Trench? He did not know, but he needs to get there as quickly as he could possibly manage. There was no time to waste whatsoever.

Reaching Romaritime Harbor, the bottom floor was soon upon Baron and he. Dashing through the beaches around the area, the party of two curved towards the eastern pathway. Main beach near Elton Trench almost about to be upon him, the hyena sped up his running speed.

Spotting tidalga on the other side of the area, the hyena kept note of such. He supposed, after he took care of the issue down below, he would have to go back and get more of the horrid jellyfish extract that awaited him. Baron diving downward first, the soldier removed his diving gear from behind him.

Everything on, the soldier synched his mind up with the system inside the suit. Soon diving downward in an automatic fashion, the early adult took a long deep breath. The western side of the trench, it was time to head there. Realist penguin already heading towards that direction, the soldier followed from behind.

Spotting a group of the red flowers in the corner, the early adult prepared himself for battle. But, as he prepared to do so, the hyena could tell something of especial note stuck out amongst the plant enemies in front of him. Was it just his imagination, or had the jewels in the crowns been green today?

Dropping down the watery explosive, Baron turned towards the hyena. Looking as though he had something to ask, the chimera gave eye contact. What was it that he wished to ask him? Whatever it was, he supposed it was best to listen. Ears open, the soldier waited.

"I suppose you expect me to punch your Xenochromatic water bomb with my flipper gauntlets, no?" Baron asked, sighing. "Earl comes up with quite the unintelligent solutions to problems sometimes."

Baron slipping penguin flipper gauntlets on, the early adult eyebrows twitched. He did not know why, but he could not help but feel a sense of coldness from Baron's comment about Earl. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. What did he care? He was a thorn in his side.

Rocky punch of circ*mstance slamming into the water bomb, the red meanies soon faded from the battlefield, but such was short lived. Plants coming back with a vengeance, orders of trying again but angle better had come Siorc's way. Second attempt failing as well, they swam towards him. Eyes on the chimera's glove, insight had come his way.

"Try this one," Baron said, pointing. "Their skin is tougher."

Flipper pointing at a button labelled, Xenochromatic Armor, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Was this really the right button to be pressing? What would armor do in a situation like this? But, he supposed it was in his best interest to roll with it, for the time being.

Plants blasting an array of energy the hyena's way, the early adult pressed the armor button. Seeing a crosshair hit the enemies off from afar, a projectile had been bounced back towards the monsters. Matter blowing up back in their nonexistent faces, the creatures faded off into nothing.

Green jewels dropping from the crowns of the plants, Baron grabbed the collective commodities one after another. Informed there were more west towards, the party of two kept on going. Far more Red Meanies sticking themselves towards powerful geyser bombs, the soldier could not help but wonder. Would knocking them back with the armor powers defeat them?

Watching as Baron sent back the power of the jetstream with a singular punch, a peculiar ball had been sent flying towards the red plant enemy. Aligning the crosshair with the geyser next to theirs, a ball had soon brought itself over to the second monster. Rings blasting the water towards them seconds later, the party of two continued onward.

Next group of water problems taken out of the picture, the soldier observed the strange teal jewels they had dropped. Seeing a wind like symbol in them, confusion ate the chimera up like a plate of fish and chips. How did these get inside these malicious plants? Something was amiss here, for sure.

Final set of enemies from the pathway towards the furthest westward area, the soldier stared at the watery world around him. Was it just him, or had it been far warmer today than yesterday? But, he supposed he didn't have time to worry about it. Baron swimming off toward a cave, the hyena had his suit thrust him toward the area.

Group of many plants exuding quite dark energy beside the cave in the corner, the early adult's shoulders froze in place. Where had these obstacles come from all of the sudden? Surely, these ones could be skipped over. They were not red like the rest of them. But, such was not an option.

"Those ones are bad," Baron said, voice monotone. "Go on, blow them up."

Knowing that was his cue to do so, the early adult pressed the bomb button. Tossing the watery explosive the way of the peculiar plants, the hyena attempted to do so. But, such had been a miscalculation by a landslide. Plant life clinging onto the rocks nearby, nothing was vanquished.

Baron stating that he should try hacking and slashing them, the chimera pressed the blade button on his glove. Plants taken out of the equation slowly, but surely, the early adult gazed at the rocks. How could such enemies cling onto minerals like that? But, he supposed he really did not have time to think about it.

Heading towards the southwest corner as the party of two kept going, more of the strange plants clung themselves towards the ocean floor. Seeing such, the soldier studied the enemies further. Round brown rock like appendages with flowers on the top, the early adult rose an eyebrow. Were these really something he had to remove? Baron had to have been mistaken.

Enemies slashed to oblivion, the soldier shook his head. Why was he fighting these, anyway? They were not his target, whatsoever. Sweeping past the northern path, the final rocky flowers were removed from the picture. Baron soon informing him they are heading the Chemin de L'espoir, the soldier followed the leader.

But, as the deepest northwestern area had been reached, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Red Meanies nowhere to be seen for kilometers, the early adult titled his head. Had someone already cleared out the obstacles around this area? Maybe it was best to continue heading north, for the time being.

Suit pushing him towards the northern path, a strange water door blocked the way. Seeing such, the soldier attempted to step towards it, but such had been a failure before it could even begin. Feeling a sharp tug on the back of his blubbery suit, demands had come his way.

"Don't go that way. That's Annaipauisis," Baron warned. "In there, you might get stuck in a corridor. Turn around."

Doing as instructed, the soldier turned back towards the opposite direction. But, as he had been thrusted back towards Chemin de L'Espoir, the familiar penguins who despised him more than soggy bread gave him the glares of a lifetime. Knowing a sea of angry words were about to come his way, the soldier prepared himself.

Seeing Ritchie Rich back at it again, Domini could feel his face become as red as a tomato. Why was he here again? This rich person with a lot of Mora, he was the one who was making the water warmer, for sure! He would pay gravely for such a crime! Violence was the only answer going forward.

Seeing the rich freak rear his ugly head in Chemin de L'Espoir, Vidame's claws were ready and waiting. Didn't Ritchie Rich get the message last time? He wasn't welcome down here whatsoever. Period, end of discussion. It was time to give him a violent warning that he would remember forever.

"Didn't we say this last time, Ritchie Rich?!" Vidame shouted, rage building. "You're not welcome down here! I hope you like your face because it's about to get a nice punishment!" Her claws glowed on the water.

"What Vidame said! You're the one causing this place to get warmer, Ritchie Rich!" Domini shouted. "Prepare for our attack! You're going to get it!" But, such announced acts of violence were halted before they could even begin.

"Really? You're going to resort to violence? How barbaric of you two," Baron said, rolling their eyes. They then stepped in front of them, flippers out. "Go. Towards the stream. I'll hold them off."

Doing as instructed, the early adult thrusted off towards the stream off towards the side. Blasted through a ring, a group of Red Meanies everyone had missed glared daggers at the soldier. Seeing them before his mismatched eyes, the early adult readied for action.

Enemies surprisingly easy to vanquish, the hyena headed for the second bubble stream. Tinier group of red planted enemies sitting dormant, the next order of business was upon the chimera. Sea creatures taken out of the equation, the third ring awaited him. Jumping through, the stream continued onward.

Action repeating itself in a loop as the stream of water rings had been crossed through, the early adult let out a tired huff. How did he not see this earlier? He should have dealt with the weaker enemies far earlier. But, he supposed he had just not noticed them prior. Soon about to reach the end of the line, the soldier would not falter.

Final set of the red plants taken out of the equation, peculiar orange rock chunks dropped from the plant's center. Seeing such, the soldier studied it, for a moment. Spotting a Geo symbol in the center of the chunk, confusion looped on repeat once more. How did elemental jewels get embedded inside these flowers? What a strange phenomenon, indeed.

Baron swimming towards him, the soldier turned his attention towards them. Youngest of the boutique penguins tell him to get out of here, go collect jellyfish extract up in Elynas, the early adult's jaw practically dropped open. Why were they bossing him around? They were not in charge of this situation, at all. But, the soldier kept such thoughts to himself.

Ascending back towards the surface, the early adult dashed off towards the mountains. But, as he kept getting closer towards the northern area, a skeletal object caught the soldier's attention. Tidalga surrounding such remains everywhere, the early adult could feel a chill shoot down his spine. Something was not right about this.

Taking a jar far smaller than the one he had yesterday, the jellyfish extract mission had soon begun. Vile pink juices dropping themselves down into the container one after another, the soldier turned away. Just how much more of this disgusting tidalga waste did he need? Surely, he had collected enough already at this point.

Proceeding to head south for awhile, the next order of jellyfish extract collection was upon the chimera. But, as he grew closer, a double dozen of the paradoxical land water creatures swept the soldier up into every corner of the Beryl Region. Knowing he had to make haste, the next round of removals had begun.

But, as the jar had gotten towards the quarter point, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just his imagination, or had some of the extract been glowing? Pushing the container away, the hyena shook his head. No way such was the case, he was overthinking it. It had to have been the sun.

As the chimera kept on moving onward, the soldier could not help but ponder. Why did Her Majesty need any of this for, anyway? Just what use could she get out of liquids from sea creatures? Surely, there was nothing of any use this could bring to the table. But, he knew he could question Her Majesty, or he would be dead.

Reaching the next destination amongst the rest, the jar was about to reach the halfway point. Observing it once more, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint for the second time. The liquids, they had to have been glowing. He couldn't have possibly been imagining it. Pushing the thoughts away, the chimera kept the chain going.

Soon finding a ton of tidalga by the burning pool of water, the soldier gulped. Why were there some gathered around the heated trap of doom? But, the chimera knew he had no choice but to tread the boiling isle of doom. Treading carefully, the early adult let out a pained scream. No matter how many times he were to come towards this area, the results were always the same.

Steamy juices ready to evaporate dropped into the jar, the soldier dashed off towards the further southern path. It was time to continue moving forward. There was no reason to let himself reduce to a pile of ashes here. Erupting his legs into a sprint, the southern collection continued.

Odd green goop added into the jar, the soldier held back the urge to gag. Whatever was in this container, it had to contain some sort of radioactive waste from an alchemy mistake. Southward walk continuing, the soldier would not falter. Surely, soon, he would have enough of the vile liquid.

Reaching the waterfalls near Merusea Village, the soldier held back the urge to sigh at the sight before him. Brume and Éclater sticking their heads out of the water like they always did, the chimera attempted to roll his eyes towards the sky. Eyes soon on him, a groan escaped the esophagus. What did they want this time?

"Bro! There's crazy jellyfish down here!" Éclater shouted, pointing. "And they're mean!"

The soldier rolled his eyes once more. The prankster sea lions, weren't they supposed to be on the water defense force? They should deal with the problem rather than calling out to anyone to do their job for them. What a lazy group of chimeras, they were. They should be the ones battling them.

"Come on, please?" Éclater begged, flippers clapped together. "They're in the surface areas of Merusea Village! We can't deal with that!"

Hearing Éclater's plea, the soldier leaped off the cliff. He supposed he had nothing to lose by assisting them with the surface areas they were unable to reach. Landing in the dark pool of blue water leading to the village, the soldier had his swimsuit thrust him downward. But, as the swim kept going, another set of information was ready.

"They're in the cavern, dude!" Brume exclaimed, pointing. "Go to the village, now quickly!"

Reaching the surface world within Merusea Village, a large school of jellyfish awaited the hyena. Creatures looking ready to get on the offensive, the early adult sighed. He supposed it was time to use the slingshot once more, with fury. Creatures ready to get on the offensive, the string was soon pulled back.

Rock making quick work of the first dozen or so, the jelly juices continued to fill the jar. More soon taken out of the picture with another round of such strange weapon, the hyena let out a huff. Whoever placed such object in his satchel had an odd idea of how battles should work.

Fights going easily for a short amount of time, the chimera gazed at the weapon. What was it about the slingshot that made the battles so simple and quick? But, as he thought such, the easy witch flipped towards medium. Rocks taking far longer to hit their mark, everything changed, in a heartbeat.

Multiple tidalga no longer able to be defeated by the rock launcher, the soldier let out a sigh. Maybe it was time to use his hyena claws to finish the rest of them. Resolute on his decision, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Human hands soon becoming hyena ones, the soldier slashed forward.

Every single jellyfish defeated after forty hit combined, the a Melusine soon ran towards the chimera. Informed more of those invading creatures appeared in a Lonely Place, the chimera dashed off towards the deeper surface locations within the area. Rolling his shoulder as he reached the area, the hyena marched onward.

Spotting multiple jellyfish surrounding themselves by the strange red crystals, the chimera could not help but wonder. Would attacking them by the object they were standing by get rid of them quicker? Perhaps, just maybe, that was the answer to their extermination.

Placing his hyena claw upon the red crystal, the soldier attempted with all his might to aim correctly. Red block hit with as much force as possible, the first tidalga had been taken out of the picture. More gathering around the other red crystals around the corner, the jellyfish slayer continued.

Jellyfish fading away one after another, peculiar red energy dropping from their bodies had been collected into a separate jar. Studying the container for a moment, the soldier placed his hyena finger on his chin. Had Elynas up above affected the invading wildlife here? Maybe such had been the case.

Returning to the seas underneath, nothing but normal tidalga extract awaited the soldier from the underwater spaces. Heading towards a strange pink conch shell shortly after, the soldier kept the collections going. Figuring he had enough for today, the soldier prepared to stage his exit. But, as he did so, someone soon swam behind him.

"There's more jellyfishers!" Brume exclaimed, tone goofy. "Thisaway!"

Knowing the sea lion were pranksters, the soldier kept having the automatic swimsuit thrust him upon the path he came. Sure there were more jellyfish that way. And the word gullible was on every single Melusine's house. No way was he going to fall for that. But, the attempts continued.

"You missed some!" Éclater exclaimed, tone even goofier than Brume's. "Follow us!"

But the soldier kept on going. There was no way he was going to let these sea lions get up to their pranking shenanigans. He wasn't about to make a fool of himself. Automatically thrusted upwards, screams of telling him to wait were drowned out further and further. Soon returning to Elynas in the surface world, the pranksters were out of sight, out of mind. Readying to return to the Aquabus, the chimera turned his booted shoes towards the direction he came, but a reminder set itself off to the sky in seconds.

Baron sitting with their legs folded into a pretzel, the soldier walked towards them. Had they been waiting for him here the entire time? If such were the case, they needn't do such a thing, for sure. Stepping towards them, they soon rose back onto their feet. Monocle glowing on the setting sun.

"Have you collected enough of the extract?" Baron asked.

The soldier stared at the jars of tidalga extract. Had he really collected enough? The chimera did not know, but he supposed he had plenty, for the time being. Giving Baron a nod, Baron soon stepped in front of him. Seeing such, the early adult knew what was about to grace his eardrums next.

"Fine," Baron responded. "We're going back to now, then."

Reaching the boutique after an hour, the rich people dinner graced his plate once more. Finishing the fanciest steak he had ever seen before, the early adult retired to the guestroom for the night. But, as he readied to head off to the dream world, questions paraded around the chimera's mind. Her Majesty, just what did she need any of this extract for? He could not help but continue to inquire about such in his mind. All of this stuff was useless, for sure. But, the soldier pushed such thoughts away. Maybe they had a functionality he was unaware of. Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, the chimera laid his head upon the guestroom pillow. But, as the world of dreams awaited him, one final thought looped on repeat.

Just how much more of this did he need to collect?

***

"Critical boiling point? Has Elton Trench gotten worse?
Really, how could this have happened in a mere forty-eight hours?
I don't get this, truly.
This makes no sense to me.
Is it those red plants multiplying?
Cannot think of any other reason, really.
All and everything about this mission makes so
Little sense to me. Destroying those red plants,

Blowing them up, was that not enough?
Oh, I see, I get it now. None of this will ever be enough.
I get it now, there's a worse issue at hand.
Looks like whatever it might be,
It is hidden in plain sight.
Now's the time to investigate.
Get to it, find the truth.

Perhaps, I missed something that's
Obstructed from sight.
It's not the Red Flowers,
Now I see. I get it now, really, honestly, and truly.
There's something bigger and worse out there. It's time to find the true culprit to this hot water mystery."

Waking up the next morning, Malika stood by the guestroom door frame. Seeing her waiting for him, the soldier had set up a sea of predictions in his fading human mindscape. Was she the one joining him underwater today? He supposed it was likely her turn to join the mix.

"Darling, I've been informed the Elton Trench has reached a critical boiling point," Malika said. "It's best you go there now to deal with it."

Malika not offering her assistance, the soldier blinked. Perhaps, she was too busy with her fashion career to assist with other underwater activities. But, he supposed he did not mind. He was the only one who was supposed to be going down to the Elton Trench to begin with.

Reaching the beach after what felt like the fifteenth time, the chimera put on his diving equipment. But as the soldier was thrusted downward, an immediate horror caught his attention. Had it been even hotter than yesterday? He swore his diving suit was about to melt off him at any given moment.

Red Meanies regenerating in the places they had been previously defeated, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Why had they come back from the plant graveyard? He needed to get rid of the problem as soon as possible, and deal with the heat issue before it were to get any worse.

But, such had only been the beginning of the issue at hand, multiple red plants bursting into flames as he approached them, the chimera grit his teeth. The heat, was it laughing at him? It had to have been, for sure. But, the hyena remained focused. He had to destroy the enemies, at all costs and reduce the heat.

Dropping down a watery explosive, the soldier kicked the bomb with his boots, in seconds. Blast taking a few of the plants out of the picture, the chimera kept heading through the northern path. More plants bursting into flames as he kept heading forward, the hyena looked away. Fire that could not even be put out underwater, how terrifying.

Aquatic bomb not doing its duty, the soldier thrusted seven paces away. Was his weapon becoming less effective now? He needed to attempt to use the others on his glove. Switching to the watery blade, the hack and slashes took place of the explosives. But, such had been the wrong course of action, as well.

Attempting to use the sound wave powers next, the invading plants had soon been reduced to a pile of ashes. Knowing he had to keep going, the soldier synched with his mind for the diving suit to go faster upon the northern stream. Reaching the Salacia Plains faster than ever before, the next set of regenerated invasive species were on the chopping block.

Plants blown to smithereens, the hyena kept the momentum going. Waters not getting any cooler as multiple enemies had been vanquished, the chimera's body twitched. Why wasn't this working? Surely, these invasive species had to have been the cause of the heating water issue in the trench.

Slamming down the enemies clinging themselves to the rocks in the corner, the soldier let out a gulp. Was the water only getting hotter? If such were the case, he was running out of time, for sure. He needed to work harder, faster, more efficiently. Dashing further north upon the plains, the onslaught continued.

Final set of plant enemies taken out of the picture around the plains, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Was there more waiting for him further up north? If such were the case, he had to head to the Submarine Canyon right away. Speeding off, the next area was about ready to be upon him.

Spotting peculiar looking blue colored bulbus plants, the early adult rose an eyebrow. What in the world were these? Whatever they were, he knew he needed to destroy them as soon as possible. Soundwaves upon him, the chimera stretched his glove out. Beams hitting the new challenger, bubbles soon rose from the object.

Weird particles releasing themselves alongside the bubbles as the hyena's attacks on the bulbous object continued, the soldier stepped towards the foreign obstacle. Hearing a strange sound as he collected the dots, questions rained down on him. Was the key to removing such thing to step on the things it spit out? He supposed it was worth a shot.

Collecting the particles one after another, the hyena resumed the fight ahead of him. Bulb looking ready to crack into nothing, the next round soon came out of nowhere. Everything looping on repeat for awhile, the final blow had soon been delivered. Plant fading away, the journey continued.

Multiple bulbous plants taken out as the chimera kept going, the soldier stared off at the road up ahead. Why was there pipes underwater in the corner? Perhaps, just maybe, those were the culprit behind how heated the ocean had become. He needed to investigate such right away.

Spotting various Red Meanies making themselves at home around the pipes, the hyena tilted his head. How strange, did these plants belong in this part of the ocean? He could not help but feel this is where they were supposed to be. Perhaps, it was best to leave them be for now. Spotting a peculiar looking building in the corner, the soldier let the suit lead him there.

But, as the soldier pressed further, a face he had no interest in encountering graced his field of damaged vision. Hawk and falcon chimeras, and creampuff haired Melusine with oddly human features stood outside of the strange underwater building. Look of deep rage on the hawk's face, the hyena prepared for another arrow to the knee. Any second now, he would gain an achilles knee.

"Faui! Get out of here!" Robin shouted at the top of his lungs. "This area is off limits right now!" Finger pointing at him in accusatory manner, his demands continued. "Of, course, though, a Fatui would come here unwanted! Leave, before justice is served to you!" But, Raven soon chimed in.

"Hon, forgive me, but you're not being very direct," Raven said to his partner. He then turned his attention towards the Fatui. "I understand if you're here to turn yourself in for one of your various Fatui crimes, hon, but the Fortress of Meropide is closed right now and not accepting new prisoners." The Melusine soon chimed in, as well.

"You chimeras are so adorable," the strange melusine said, almost out of nowhere. She then turned towards the stranger. "For your own safety, I'd return to the Elton Trench immediately."

Turning back around, the early adult clicked his tongue. How ridiculous it was of these three to prevent him from going further. But, he supposed he had no reason to head for an underwater prison. This was not some sort of Fortress of Meropide infiltration mission. Whatever might have been happening there at the moment, he needed to let it be.

Returning to the trench, the hyena swore the Red Meanies had regenerated for the third time. Seeing such, the early adult rolled up his invisible sleeves. It was time to destroy them once more before they were to cause any more damage to the area. Explosive taking the stage, the hyena kept on going.

Plants one after another through the southward path taken out, the soldier let out a battle cry. The invasive red plants, he had to get rid of them as soon as possible. They did not belong here, they had gone too far down to where they weren't wanted. This had to end now.

Next set destroyed once more, the soldier kept going. Finding himself back towards the Elton Trench's entrance, a sound like no other overtook the underwater streets. Turning his attention towards the cacophony, the hyena could hardly believe his eyes. Enemies regenerating once more, everything reversed back to zero.

Attempting once again to remove every single invasive species from the equation, the chimera attempted once more to use the soundwave attack to his advantage. Far reaches of the so called echolocation vanquishing multiple plants all in one go, the early adult pumped his fist downward, elbow out.

But, such celebration was short lived. Plants returning for what felt like the fifth time, the soldier held back the urge to let out a scream. What in all of Teyvat was going on? Why were the plants still regenerating? Surely, he had attack all of them within a short enough amount of time to remove them.

Attempting one final time to vanquish the sea of returning monster plants, the soldier readied to wave the white flag. This time, if they were to return, he would not bother to try to remove them. Red Meanies not showing themselves for a few minutes afterwards, the soldier prepared to give up the moment they were to return.

Everything except the heated waters soon returning to normal, the hyena cruised forward upon the waters. Maybe the regeneration had run out. It was time to return toward the western side of the ocean. As he prepared himself to go towards such section of the ocean, however, the people who were his worst fans came out from the shadows.

"You're still here? This is all your fault, you know?!" Vidame shouted, pointing at him in an accusatory manner. "You did this, you made the water hot with that stupid suit of yours!" Domini soon joined in on the accusations.

"That's right!" Domini chimed in. "It's rich people's fault our home has gotten so hot! Take responsibility, or the suit's gonna get it!"

Hearing the pesky penguin's accusations, the soldier could feel himself about to blow a gasket. How dare these two pin the blame on him. He was not responsible for the growing heat problem down in the Elton Trench. He was not going to let these people get away with saying such a false narrative. He was going to take them down with the rare use of words.

"And here you two go again, assuming without any doubt that I'm the one who did this," Siorc responded, voice as sharp as a knife. "Stop assuming I am the one responsible for this. I am not. I never was." His words were getting sharper. Enough to cut. "Quit assuming just because you think I am rich that I am the one who did this." A closed eye smile of rage plastered his face. "I do not care what problems you have with the wealthy. You have no right to take it out on me. So, watch what you say, and guide your visceral towards something else."

"Sure you're not!" Domini retorted, shaking his flipper. "Explain this heat, then! I bet your stupid suit is fueled on rockets, or something!"

The early adult rolled his eyes towards the ocean ceiling. Why did he even bother to stand up for himself? He supposed no matter how hard he tried, he wasn't going to convince them he was not responsible for such act. It was time to continue onward. He owed them no explanation whatsoever. He had no idea where the heat came from, anyway.

Automatic swim suit cruising further ahead, the chimera ignored the penguins as he went forward. Pests following from behind him, the soldier clicked his tongue. Didn't they hear what he said? They should take their visceral towards him something else. But, he supposed he had wasted his time saying such. Diving suit thrusting him further deeper down in the ocean's depths a place filled with vines awaited the chimera.

Slashing the vines to oblivion, the early adult kept moving forward. Soon finding himself in a place known as Institute of Natural Philosophy, an array of questions flowed through the soldier. Why was there a research facility so far deep beneath the ocean? How peculiar; absolutely no one would ever use such a thing.

Reaching the next area, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just him or had he been seeing strange machines towards a surface area coming up? Whatever it was, he needed to get rid of it as soon as possible. He could not help but feel something had been off about it. Readying to leap towards the surface, a surprise had prepared itself.

"Dangnabbit, you know what? Fine!" Vidame screeched. "We'll call a temporary truce with you!" Pointing at the machines, she continued. "Those things are bad news. We'll help you get rid of them. But, make no mistake! We're not doing this for you we're doing this for us and our own safety only. Got it?"

The soldier gave the penguins a nod. He supposed, if they were going to battle with him, he couldn't turn them away. Triangular shaped machine monsters soon activating one after another, the hyena prepared himself. It was time to remove the obstacles from the picture.

Vidame transforming herself into human form with a strange mouthpiece over her, a scythe appeared in her hands. Absorbing the energy of the vines in the corner, she slashed forward. Machine monster taking a hit of the ages, Domini tagged himself into the ring as everything continued.

Chain whip in Domini's currently human hands, he let out a battle cry. Metallic weapon slamming deep into the monster's crevices, the soldier swore that any second now, the metal would burst into flames and end the machine in seconds. Knowing it was his turn next, the soldier removed the slingshot from his satchel. But such was met with immediate criticism.

"Really? A slingshot?" Vidame chirped, deadpan. "That's the stupidest weapon you could have possibly brought to a fight like this!" Rummaging through her pockets, she grit her teeth. "Here, just take my dagger!" She then lowered her voice into a whisper. "I'm definitely going to have to wash the rich people germs off of it later."

Dagger thrown his way, the early adult had begun the slashing session. Machine looking ready to be kaput, the chimera kept the momentum going. Defeat coming the creature's way, the penguin readied to celebrate. But, such was premature. Enemy regenerating to full vitals, the fight reversed back to zero.

Scythe, chain whip and dagger making quick work of the machine once again, the enemy had become useless scrap metal. Penguins soon gasping for water, they had returned to their true forms. Splashing towards the next pool of water nearby, the soldier soon followed behind the duo in silence.

As the group travelled forward, however, the hyena could not help but notice. The underwater world, had it gotten slightly cooler? Perhaps, just maybe the machines were the ones responsible for the heat down in the Elton Trench. If such were the case, he had to get rid of he rest of them, immediately.

Reaching another land area, more machines awaited everyone. Quick work was made of the second set, a strange staircase that was underwater had been the next order of business. Sea water cooling down as the chimera ascended the water railings, a long corridor soon awaited.

But, as the hyena had the diving suit push him through such corridor, a familiar sight broke out in front of him. Hooded strangers swimming away as if guilty for a crime they committed the early adult sped off towards them. Were they the ones behind this? He needed to take them down right now.

"Wait a second, those are the ones who we saw last time!" Vidame shouted. "After them!" Domini soon added his voice to the fix.

"Fine, guess what! I believe you now, okay, Ritchie Rich?" Domini said to the stranger. "You didn't do it! Now, after them!"

Hooded strangers dropping down multiple machine monsters as they attempted to flee the scene, everyone had gotten on the offensive. Scythe, dagger an chain whip making quick work of the dropped enemies, defeat had come faster than the soldier was willing to count.

Fights continuing onward for minutes on end, the sound of a door slamming open echoed throughout the area. Hooded strangers slapping a page down in a book as the trio headed towards the source of the racket, a light soon engulfed the hooded strangers. Penguin duo and chimera sucked in as well, an isolated room soon awaited.

Everyone finding themselves in some strange office cut off from the rest of the natural philosophy area, the hyena could not help but wonder. Where in the world had the hooded strangers, the penguins and he been transported to? Wherever they had been taken to, it was time to stop these people once and for all.

Hooded strangers soon dropping down a peculiar egg shaped machine with a set of two zeros separated by a colon and another two goose eggs, the hyena could feel a wave of unease flow through him. What did they just set down? He could not help but feel something sinister was about to begin. But, as the soldier studied it further, something clicked.

Seeing a flint on the top of the machine, the soldier had come to a quick realization. The hooded strangers, did they intend to destroy the room and everyone in it? If such were the case, he needed to put a stop to it, immediately. No such act of violence should be allowed, at any cost.

"Stop interfering with our plans!" the hooded stranger shouted, finger pointed at the hyena. "The Elton Trench is going to be absorbed into the Abyss!" Dialing the numbers past eleven, a six-hundred blinked on the screen.

Seeing a large number blink on the machine screen, something had hit the soldier immediately. He sees now, the hooded strangers intended to wipe Elton Trench off the map. How ridiculous. He could not allow such to happen. Gloves coming off, the chimera closed his eyes for a moment, his human hands had been replaced by hyena claws.

"You, you lot did this, didn't you?!" Vidame shouted, pointed. "You heated up the Elton Trench!"

"She bets!" the other hooded stranger responded. "Yes, it was you. You did this! Better defeat oneself quickly if she wants the precious trench to live. Tick tock, tick tock, six-hundred seconds!"

Vidame letting out a shout, her scythe soon swiped forward like a rapid pendulum. Vines around her manipulated, as well, the power of Dendro flowed through her. Hooded strangers tossing energy of darkness as a counter, the young penguin would not let their side of the equation get the best of her.

Domini tossing his chain whip towards the dastardly villains and their horrific deeds, a battle cry flowed through his lips. Throwing the weapon over and over again, the blunt attacks kept the momentum going. But, as he kept up the pace, the other hooded stranger laughed.

"You're fighting us anyway?" the hooded stranger asked sarcastically. "Face darkness, face reality! This place is gonna blow!"

Knowing he had to do something, the early adult brought the dagger towards the vile enemy of the world unknown. Slashing forward like mad with his left hyena paw, and carving deep into the monster of a person's hood with his right, screams hit the strange place one after another.

Timer soon hitting three-hundred, the hyena flinched. Time was ticking faster with every given second. The machine, someone had to destroy it before it was too late. Quickly, swiftly, immediately. Tossing the dagger into the center, the early adult attempted the first round of destruction. Such, however, was an instant failure.

"Tick tock, tick tock," the hooded stranger shouted mockingly. "It's gonna blow soon!"

The hyena let out a scream. Right, tick tock, it was going to blow soon. He needed to try harder to destroy the machine. Thrusting the dagger back and forth, Vidame's Dendro infused scythe attempted once more to break the timer once and for all, but Domini fighting with gusto, as well, everyone screeched.

Timer soon at one-hundred-fifty, a sea of panic flowed through the party of three. Only two-and-half minutes left. Soon, it was going to blow, the Elton Trench would be gone, toast, no longer on the map whatsoever. Everyone continuing to keep the fight going, energy of darkness only grew stronger as the seconds ticked away.

The master cheat coat soon unleashed itself.

Hooded stranger letting out a laugh, the numbers sped up faster than anyone could blink. Timer now only reading thirty, the early adult grit his teeth. How dare these people do such a thing. They would pay greatly for such a dirty tactic. This was war, it was time to give these monsters a taste of their own medicine. Teeth armed and ready, the chimera lunged forward.

Sinking his fangs deep into the hooded stranger on the right's hips, the chimera kept gnawing away for minutes on end. Hooded stranger screaming for many seconds, the hyena clamped down harder. Person of no identity screaming Uncle as the chompers left their bleeding regards, the timer soon stopped. Penguin duo vanquishing the stranger on the left as well, the final nail to end them all was ready. Bomb diffused in mere seconds, shouts had come the chimera's way.

"Purple, you will get his revenge!" the hooded stranger shouted, shaking one's fists. The other hooded stranger soon chimed in.

"You messed with the wrong gazelles!" the other hooded stranger shouted. They then exited the area. But, as they did such the penguins turned towards Siorc.

"Fine. Sorry for accusing you. We see now you didn't do it," Domini said reluctantly.

"But, don't get us wrong! We don't want to cross paths with you again," Vidame chimed in. "Bye!"

Book removing them from the strange office, the penguin duo swam away as fast as their penguin feet would carry them. Returning to the trench for a moment, a wave of calmness flowed through the chimera. The water temperature, it had returned to normal. Readying to return to the surface to close the chapter, the early adult prepared to ascend to the surface, but as he did such, an unexpected person appeared.

Malika swimming downward, the hyena blinked of bewilderment. Was she really here right now, or was his mind playing tricks on him? Tall penguin lady only coming closer, the chimera shrugged. It was probably really her, at this very moment. He supposed it was best to listen to what she had to say.

"Darling, some masked man wants to see you," Malika said in an informative tone. "You should come back to the boutique now."

Hearing such statement, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why would Malika let the Agent into the boutique? But, he supposed it was absolutely no business of his why such happened. Eventually returning towards the Fontaine Fashion empire, another unlikely sight caught the chimera's attention. Kaiser outside on the sidewalk covering his face with his hands, a set of whines broke out.

"That masked man bumped into me, and hit my arms," Kaiser whined. "Hard."

"Don't worry, darling, I'll bar this man from ever stepping foot into my boutique ever again," Malika responded.

Guided into the boutique shortly after, the masked Agent turned towards the soldier. Unseen eye contact given, the soldier gulped. Boots tapping on the ground in a loud manner, color left the chimera's face. Had he taken too long? He was done for, guaranteed. It was game over, any second now.

"What in the world were you doing, soldier?!" the Agent asked, anger evident in his voice. "You took far too long to collect energy!"

Hearing the anger continue to rise in the Agent's voice, the hyena's heart skipped more than seven beats. He had come back too late? He was in trouble, guaranteed. Her Majesty, she was going to end him, for sure. Taking a deep breath, the soldier prepared himself. Perhaps, if he told the Agent what happened, his sentence will be made lighter.

"I apologize, sir!" the hyena responded, bowing his head. "Someone was attempting to bring great irreversible harm to the Elton Trench, so I had to deal with it!" A surprising, immediate answer had come his way.

"In that case, soldier, you're off the hook today for your tardiness," the Agent responded. "You are hereby dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya immediately."

Dismissal soon granted, the hyena highlighted the waypoint to the military barracks. Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, questions wrapped vines around the hyena. What was that all about just now? The Agent, he could never understand what he was ever thinking.

Pacing around the icy cold floor, for a moment, a flurry of thoughts snowed the chimera in. The hooded strangers, they were going to get revenge on him. He had to be more cautious, going forward, or they would try to wipe more locations off the map. Such could not happen whatsoever.

Wave of tiredness finally flowing through him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Glasses soon removed as well, and uniform removed, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But, as the world of sleep was about to invite him back in, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

The is the beginning of something far worse about to happen in Fontaine.

Chapter 7: Court Case 1: Wrong Mekas Decimated

Chapter Text

"This is getting rather
Hard to deal with now
I'm certain this crisis is only
Starting to get worse.

Everything is escalating, quickly.
Nothing is going to be
Easy. The heat issue,
Really, this was just the beginning of
Greater issues arising.
Yes, I see that now.

Could this be the door to
Retroactive difficulties?
If those hooded people have begun to
Seek revenge, it's only going to worsen.
I am certain. It is time to
Stay cautious as can be.

It's only going to worsen,
Those hooden strangers mean business.

It's only going to worsen,
So I need to prepare for anything.

Guess whatever awaits me today is
Endless possibilities.
The oceans, are they cold today?
The robots are they rogue today?
I do not know,
Nor can I predict.
Guess I shall see where

Things might drift.
Obviously, it can truly go anywhere.

But, I could be wrong.
Evidently, another day of nothing could await.

For what it's worth, diplomacy should die
A dishonorable death.
Remove them from

My schedule. Isn't Fontaine in an
Ongoing crisis?
Right, Her Majesty doesn't care.
Everything is according to her agenda.

Overall, I know that.
For I am nothing more than

A pawn. A chess

Piece. Something of a worm. She's
Ready to checkmate at every
Opportunity. Every second.
Believe me, I know she's only using me.
Look it's like this
Every single day.
My life is just

That of a puppet,
Here in this cold breeze.
And as long as I am here,
Nothing will change. But,

I have no choice

To obey. Or
Her Majesty will kill me.
Obviously I cannot leave. I must not
Unleash another mistake. So
Get to work, no matter what it might be.
Here's to another day of anything. Diligence is
The key to living."

Dreaming continued to be a never ending cycle of anguish within the chimera's adult Fatui life. The loop would reverse and repeat, returning back to the very beginning with every step back into the subconscious mind. The night before him would continue the pattern before him, as well.

Before him had been a field of lilacs. Seeing such flowers, the early adult let out a deep groan. Why couldn't all nature within his subconscious mind disappear forever? Nature and he were not on speaking terms. Ready to move past them, the soldier turned off towards the opposite direction. But, as he attempted to leave, the hyena swore he could hear a series of whispers in the flowerbed.

"Don't go, it's not safe!" a very quiet voice screeched out in a slightly loud whisper.

Hearing such, the chimera turned his heelless unfeeling shoes towards the opposite direction. Why should he listen to what the flowers had to say to him? Absolutely ridiculous. He wasn't about to listen to his former fling in the mortal, waking world. Continuing to walk forward, the soldier would not look back.

Stepping off towards the left, the soldier kept walking. Flowers only getting further away with every step, the chimera let out a blissful noise. The plant world was gone now. It could no longer speak to him. Strolling through the dream world of emptiness, torment was fifty feet under the ground.

But, as the chimera kept on going, a place of peculiarity had been stepped into. Large, complicated looking hedge maze with steel traps everywhere the dream eyes could see, the soldier's dream stomach grew tight. Where had this maze come from? Dangers afoot, the early adult attempted with all his might to run away, but such had been impossible.

Wind pushing him further inside, the soldier's tail twitched from behind him. Exit soon blocked by a peculiar teal barrier, the chimera could not help but wonder. Was this his punishment for being forced to abandon the Anemo Archon? While he knew such was not a high possibility, he felt like it had to have been in the not reality in front of him.

Pressing onward through the maze, spike traps aplenty sliced through the soldier's currently human legs one after another. Uniform pants cut up into ribbons as sawblades took the stage, a simulated sense of pain flowed through the chimera. Knowing he could not turn back, the early adult kept moving forward. He had to keep going. Surely, the end would soon be in sight.

Pushing forward as small pools of red decorated the ground, the soldier could hear a familiar laugh playing itself out in the distance. Hearing such, the early adult buckled himself down. The unknown strangers had made themselves comfortable in his subconscious world once again? This time, they would get what's coming to them, for sure.

Looping through what felt like a long corridor of hedges, the saw blades took the early adult's hips for a ride. Lower body claimed by the red prize of doom, the soldier let out a deep huff. The end of the maze would soon be upon him. He had to keep going. There was no way he could let the grassy world of enclosure beat him.

Exit four paces away, the soldier could not help but wonder. What awaited him at the end? He supposed, any second now, he was about to find out. Combing through the exit dream blood trailing behind him, the chimera steeled himself. Was a monster about to surprise him from behind? He needed to be ready for anything.

Finding himself near a treasure chest in the center of a stone platform, the soldier walked towards the trove. Lock undoing itself as if it were waiting for him, the early adult bent his knees. But, what awaited him was nothing more than a slab of paper. Note written in peculiar handwriting, the chimera read the note in front of him in silence.

"You messed with our plans, so we'll continue to mess with you!" the note said.

Reading over the note one more time, panic bubbled up inside the soldier. Who could have possibly written this note? The handwriting had been archaic, ancient, from many centuries past. Whoever it was that had intentions of messing with him, he knew he could not award them the attention they did not deserve. Readying to exit the maze, the hyena would not falter.

But, such departure was cancelled before it could even begin. Teal wind barrier enclosing the exit, as well, a gigantic crab with a flaming shell behind it bent itself over as it locked eyes with the soldier. Volcanic rocks coming his way with blazing speed, the early adult's chest and the rocks shook hands with one another.

Uniform soon melting, the early adult shook with a fervor. Where in the world had this crustacean come from? But, as his thoughts were racing through him, another attack of flaming torment had come the soldier's way. Chest bursting into flames, another laugh overtook the area. Strangers with obscured eyes stepping forward, their plans of war shook the battlefield.

"You keep messing with us, so we're about to do something that'll ruin you forever!" one of the strangers exclaimed.

The early adult could feel a shock drop down his incinerated chest. What are these two about to do to him? He knew he needed to ask about such. He had to find out why they were continuously messing with him. What did he do to these people to warrant such constant torture from them?

But, no such words ever came. Unknown strangers snapping their fingers, flames travelled upwards towards his neck. Throat burned to cinders as well, talking was an impossibility to be had, for sure. White flag waved on the dream battlefield, mercy wrapped toxic vines around the hyena.

"You hope he's sorry!" the other stranger shouted. "When you are done, he'll be regarded as scum!"

Unknown people snapping their fingers once more, the early adult's entire body had soon been engulfed in flames. Everything around him turning black, the soldier fell down onto the dream ground. Feeling his dream life about to end, one final thought poked through his fading subconscious.

What did he ever do to these people?

***

"It's that Fatui again! He's in my territory!
Foul villain, justice will be served to you!

If I see him wandering through here again,

Even if he's just passing through, I
Vow to alert the authorities!
Everyone knows that northern Fontaine is my territory!
Raven and I ought to put a sign up!

Shoo, Fatui!
Exit the premises!
Evacuate my bounty spaces!

This fiend should learn his place!
He is not welcome here.
And if I see him again,
That villain will pay!

For I, Robin am justice!
And it'll be served on an Electric platter!
This Fatui won't know what hit him!
Unleash the defenses!
It will be one for the hero team!

I won't let this villain run free!
Not a chance!

May this be a lesson to
You, Fatui! No one trusts your kind!

The crimes you all do, you should all do the time!
Even if I don't have proof, your growing list of
Retched wrongdoings will be
Revealed! Mark my words,
I, Robin, will expose you!
The time has come, Fontaine,
Open your eyes! There's a
Repeated offender on the loose!
You're going down, vile villain!

And I'll make sure you won't
Get to see sunlight ever
Again! Enjoy it while you can!
I'm sure the Fortress of Meropide will be perfect for you!
Next, his subordinates!

His allies! All behind bars!
Even the Hydro Archon

Will be on my side!
It's time for a Fatui arresting revolution! Viva
La Revolution! Viva
La Revolution!

Brought to justice by yours truly!
Everyone will thank me!

So, get out of my territory,
Or, I'll take action! Viva La
Revolution! Viva la
Revolution!
Your days are numbered here, villain!"

Twenty four hours had passed since the hyena dealt with the high heat problem in the Elton Trench and the surrounding areas laying deep beneath. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred. Diplomatic affairs of nothing in Liyue overtaking the singular day, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

The sound of a loud aircraft blared through the ice cold skies. As the large ship on the air kept cruising forward, the sound of booted feet barreling through the hallway overtook the area. Stomps only getting more potent as the seconds raged onward, the military barracks emptied swiftly and surely.

The disruptive noise was more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially tormented slumber. Lifting himself up from the covers, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human head. Knowing he had no time, the soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier placed on his second shirt, another siren screeched from the outside world. Covering his ears for a moment, soldier swore his shark eardrums were about to rupture. Just who in the world was piloting that thing? They had to do it quieter, for sure. Attempting to tune out the racket, the hyena placed his winter jacket over his layered clothing.

Seeing a sea of boxes rain outside his barricaded window as he closed his buttons shut, the soldier shook his head. It must have been some sort of supply delivery day for less equipped soldiers. Turning the other way, the early adult removed the cover off his hairpin and earring box.

Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings in place, matching blue stars adorned his hair and ears. But, as he slipped the final earring through the hole on his earlobe, the soldier could not help but wonder. Those hooded strangers, what could he have possibly done to them? What other plans could he have possibly meddled in? But, the hyena knew such did not have an answer.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena glared at the yellow-green orb. What did he need this useless thing for, anyway? But, he knew he could not leave it too far behind, or he would become an empty shell without a soul like a certain in another person who had a jar thrown somewhere far away.

Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the soldier walked towards the barricaded window. Various soldiers dashing out around outside collecting boxes full of delusions, the early adult slapped his hand over his face, for a moment. Some of Her Majesty's Fatui were desperate fools who would cling onto any power they were about to receive. Turning around, the hyena paid the people no mind.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march onward inexorably, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. There was no more time to think, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. His workday of anything was about to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be heading to Fontaine to defeat the malicious Mekas that have suddenly appeared in the nation." The masked agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Feigning allyship was the only way to rule the world.

The chimera jumped three steps back. He has to defeat robots today? Wouldn't that make him a public enemy in Fontaine? This had to have been a bad idea, his reputation would sink to the lowest point if he were to accidentally defeat the wrong one, for sure. There was no way this would go well, in any situation.

The soldier stared off into space, for a moment. Her Majesty, just what was she thinking? There is no way this would help her reach her goals within the Hydro Nation of Justice. This plan, for sure, would sour her plans, immediately. But, the hyena knew, questioning her orders was forbidden.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You'll be destroying malicious Meka in Fontaine!" His voice was raising. "There's no time for this dawdling! Get a move on!"

The early adult flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time to be thinking about such things. He needed to focus. Taking a long deep breath, the soldier placed his arm out in front of him. Surely, Her Majesty had a plan. Turning his attention towards the Agent, the work mode switch flipped upward.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Reputation dropping or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.

"Good. We're going soldier," the Agent responded. But, he soon continued. "You will be using some specialized weapons today. Deploy them wisely." Arm out in front of him, the agent gripped the wrist into a tight lock. As the escort towards Fontaine began, a question rolled a pebble around in the hyena's fading human brain.

What kind of malicious mekas awaited him?

***

"Of all days, the
Hawk is in his territory again.

Now, I will have to be extremely careful,
Or he will spot me, guaranteed.

That cannot happen, this mission, I
Have to proceed with caution.
Every time I am near him,

He is in this justice mode.
All and all, I have to avoid him.
Whether or not that is even possible, I do not
Know. His eyes are too sharp.

I am guaranteed to get spotted.
So, I'll have to go in the opposite direction.

Off towards the mountains,
No matter what, I cannot

Pass by him.
After all, I know he'll
Try to attack me.
Really, he needs to leave me be.
Obviously, I have no interest in his boyfriend.
Let alone, recruiting him.

I would never try to bring other chimeras into this

Absolutely horrid occupation.
My time here is not something

I would ever wish on anybody. Human, chimera,
Nobody. No a single soul. Not even

To anyone who deems me as their worst enemy.
Recruiting anyone, even if I were allowed to is always
Out of the question, entirely. That is my
Ultimatum. No way.
But, I know that the hawk chimera doesn't care. He
Looks at me as the villain, permanently.
Even if I have done nothing to him, I know he despises all Fatui. It is what is, really."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the soldier could not help but think. Why couldn't the Agent just take him to the capital city directly? But, the soldier kept his mouth shut. Maybe he had his reasons for not doing so. Dragged down the mountains, sand crunched underneath the chimera's feet.

Boat summoned out of nowhere, the early adult was soon seated. Vessel cruising across the water, the hyena stared off towards the harbor from afar. What kind of battles would await him today? He knew, whatever kind of malicious robot monsters were to cross his path, he had to defeat them accordingly.

Reaching Romaritime Harbor rather fast, the early adult pushed his thoughts aside. Agent stomping onward towards the stairwell, the chimera followed along in silence. Large bag slammed onto his back, a predictable set of words had been blasted into the soldier's eardrums.

Agent informing him once again he was forbidden from teleporting to any of the locations containing enemies, the early adult wanted to move his right hand in a mocking matter. Did he have to keep repeating this set of orders over and over again? He knew already. It was getting quite tiresome to hear such once more. But, the chimera kept such thoughts to himself.

Orders repeated one final time, and list handed off to him, the Agent soon exited the area. Ascending the staircase and taking the glass lift, the bag behind him startled to jiggle. Such noises being the only one as he headed toward the Aquabus station, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left.

Only person around being a well dressed woman holding a parasol, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why was there no one here? But, the early adult pushed such thoughts away. Pressing the button, the hyena waited for the Aquabus to pull into the station. Silence deafening, the automatic vehicle arrived in style.

Stepping foot on the automatic vehicle, the same Melusine as always welcomed him aboard. Employed sea creature talking about the Court of Fontaine for a moment and how the city was automated to some degree, a sea of questions flowed through the soldier for minutes on end.

As the vessel cruised past the Poisson tunnel, the soldier could not help but wonder. Fontaine, or Snezhnaya, which one had more advanced technology? But, the soldier knew such had no concrete answer. Perhaps, just maybe, both of them were at around the same level.

Capital city almost about to be upon him, the soldier gazed at the road in front of him. The rogue mekas, would they be patrolling around the city, hiding amongst the employed guards? If such were the case, he would need to proceed with caution as much as possible.

Aquabus parking itself into the station, the hyena strolled into the Court of Fontaine in silence. Removing the sheet of paper from his back pocket, the chimera read off the first set of locations, for a moment. Reading the name Mount Esus East, the chimera cracked his knuckles. He supposed, such would be a good place to start.

Knowing he would have to head for the mountains by taken the southern exit, the chimera prepared to head off towards the southwestern path of the city. The mountains, how many malicious robots would await him there? Whatever special weapons he was given, he knew he would have to use them wisely.

Stepping through the streets, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Could there be an imposter among the citizens? The malicious robots, could they have been disguising themselves as human citizens? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. What was he thinking? He was not on some ship with a crew full of suited people that looked nearly identical.

Meka gardes on duty looking as normal as can be, the soldier dismissed such suspicion inside him. There was absolutely no way any of the robots within the city had gone rogue. He was jumping to conclusions, guaranteed. Stepping by the station, the chimera descended the staircase.

Walking by a perfume store, the soldier let out a sigh. How fortunate the rich must be to be able to afford whatever beautiful scent they wanted. But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. Why was he letting himself get distracted? He needed to leave the city right away.

But, as the soldier dashed past the restaurant, a pair of faces he had no desire to see appeared in his damaged field of heterochromatic vision. Pesky penguin duo strolling past the fine dining establishment, the chimera held the urge to grunt. Why was Earl always everywhere? How incredibly aggravating. He was a fly that would never disappear. Eyes immediately on him, the soldier kept his focus forward. He would not lock eyes with him. He needed to keep moving.

Seeing his future husband walking by the cafe, Earl could feel his heart sing a tune inside him. What was Siorc up to today? But, he soon recalled a warning of caution he had heard while on the go for work. He needed to warn him of the possible dangers that might come his way.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "I have something important to tell you, come with me!"

Baron rolled their eyes as their brother once again attempted to bring the same boy home with him again. Why couldn't he see that no matter how hard he tried, this man would never be interested in him? He needed to wake up to reality and stop pursing someone was emotionally unavailable for him.

"Earl, he's not even interested in you," Baron said, arms crossed around their waist. "It's quite boorish for you to continue trying to pursue him."

"It's not about that today, I swear!" Earl fired back. "I just don't want anyone to hear our conversation!"

Knowing if he did not follow Earl, he would be dragged off towards the boutique against his will, the soldier followed behind the penguins in silence. How incredibly ridiculous. Whatever nonsense he had to say to him, he could just say it aloud. Surely, no one would be listening. He was rich. The ones with Mora could pay for people to turn around, if they desired, without a doubt.

As the party of two in front of him kept walking forward, the soldier held back the urge to roll his eyes. What was so important it had to be discussed in private? If it were to ask him out on a date, he would reject him so cold, Fontaine would freeze over faster than Snezhnaya during a month long blizzard.

Boutique reached after fifteen minutes of walking, the soldier prepared himself. Whatever it was he was about to hear, every single rejection known to man, woman and other were on the tip of his tongue. Highly acclaimed fashion establishment busy in spades, reaching the bottom floor was a challenge.

Finally reaching the apartment down below after a few minutes, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left Malika cutting and measuring sewing material and Kaiser using a strange device on top of a crinkled set of pants, the soldier blinked. Who was womanning the fort if neither she nor Kaiser were upstairs at the boutique? But, he supposed their shifts were no business of his.

"We're home for Petrichor!" Earl announced. "Business was bad again today; they're tough cookies!"

"Welcome back, darling," Malika responded. She then put on a smile. "You brought your favorite home again?"

The chimera let out the tiniest of groans. Did Earl talk about him while he was not around? He needed to find someone else to fixate on. He would never make himself available for him, no matter what. This pest needed to realize such before his feelings were hurt beyond repair.

"I just wanted to take him somewhere more private!" Earl responded in an exclamatory tone. He then turned towards Siorc. "It's dangerous right now! The robots out in the fields have started going rogue everywhere!"

The early adult let out a deep, exasperated sigh. Did he really need to drag him all the way to the boutique to tell him this? He already knew about such. Exterminating the malicious meka was his mission. He needed to tell the pesky thorn in his side the message was wasted on him.

"I know already, sir," Siorc responded, voice barely audible. "My mission is to destroy them." Removing a piece of paper from his pocket, he let the words do the rest of the talking.

Hearing Siorc mention a mission and take out a sheet of paper with multiple locations printed on it, Earl's eyes soon wandered off towards the first place listed. Seeing Mount Esus East at the tippy top, his caution senses were tingling. His future husband was definitely in danger. He needed to poke his nose in like any good wife would.

"Mount Esus is dangerous right now!" Earl exclaimed. "I'll escort you!"

The early adult let out another exasperated sigh. Earl, escort him? He did not need such high level of caution. He would be fine on his own, guaranteed. Shaking his head, the soldier prepared to walk towards the stairwell. What an unnecessary suggestion to be had, for sure. The penguin needed to stop poking his nose in his business. But, as he prepared to leave, another voice added another thorn into his side.

"Earl, let him go by himself," Baron said, shaking their head. "He's got plenty of his own experience."

Baron stating the obvious, the soldier's ears perked. Finally, a penguin was talking sense, for a change. Earl's demeanor immediately changing course, the early adult shook his head in tandem. Did this penguin ever know when to give up? But, his thoughts were soon proven to be far from the truth.

"Okay, I'll let you go," Earl said, almost with reluctance. "But, come back if you get hurt, or want supper!"

Giving the thorn in his side a nod, the soldier exited the boutique. Eventually reaching the northwest exit after a long climb upward, the soldier cracked his knuckles. The time had come to vanquish the mechanical vermin listed upon the paper. Jumping down onto the walkway below, the hyena braced himself.

Dashing through the fields on a no horse open path, robots aplenty with black aura surrounded them covered the walkway for kilometers. Seeing such, the soldier rummaged through his satchel. It was time to fight already? He needed to get on the offensive, immediately. But, he had soon come to a horrific discovery.

Finding an array of bombs laid inside the satchel everywhere, the soldier's heart sunk into the bottom of his chest. Why would the Agent equip him such a terrifying weapon? If anyone were nearby, they'd be harmed, as well. Surely, there had to have been a less dangerous object he could use in combat.

Spotting a peculiar robot toy as well, equipped with bombs aplenty, the early adult's unease dialed itself to eleven. This would scare people, for sure. Not spotting any other types of weapons in the satchel, the soldier waved a white flag. He had no choice in the matter, he had to use the explosives. He would definitely apologize later for any fear he would cause.

Enemies soon charging towards him with full force, robotic arms slapped him a new one. Feeling his backside take a beating, the soldier let out a scream. The robots were well versed in combat, for certain. Creatures looking ready to switch tactics at any given second, the soldier removed the first explosion ball of doom from the bag behind him.

Fuse looking ready to go off at any second, the chimera lunged the black orb of booming chaos onto the wind. Stick sizzling as the air pulled the trigger, a small explosion overtook the enemy. But, such had not put a singular dent into the meka. Creature brushing off its sides like it was hit by a feather, the sides made themselves clear.

Black missiles ramming into him the soldier let out a scream. Had someone given these robots the powers of Ruin Guards? Whoever made these had given them the wrong attacking structure. More projectiles ready to come his way at any given second, the next ball of doom had been in his hands.

Explosive unable to curb the projectiles, the early adult could feel a wave of willpower begin to drop inside him. Were these mechanical monsters immune to the effects of explosives? But, the hyena knew it was far too early to give up. He had to keep trying. Surely, they had to have some sort of weak spot.

But, such proved to be difficult for minutes on end. Rogue meka bouncing the object back, the soldier jumped off towards the left. The robot had the ability to deflect? Had he been looking in the mirror and seeing himself as a robotic copy of himself? His options were numbered, if such were the case.

Trying one final time, the last explosive had soon been darted off towards a tree. Bulle fruit casualties nearby becoming inedible ashes, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. These weapons were out of the question. He needed to fight in some other way right now.

Figuring the toy robot would not be able to serve its purpose either, the chimera waved the white flag. He supposed his only option was to use his natural weapons. Closing his eyes for a moment, his human hands had been transformed into hyena claws. Dashing forward, the chimera let out a battle cry.

Claws doing their due diligence to the enemies after at least forty-five slashes and some fight backs, the soldier let out a tired huff. If any more of the mechanical monsters were ironclad, he would struggle going forward, guaranteed. But, he knew he would have to keep going, no matter what.

Pathway all cleared, the soldier kept walking upon the northeast road. But, as the chimera kept on moving forward, a heavy sense of unease flew over him. Was the atmosphere in the area thicker? The hyena did not know why, but there was a sense of disaster in the air. But, he supposed the meka in the region were responsible for such.

Walking along the path, more enemies soon made their presence known. Hyena claws ready, the soldier swiped forward for minutes on end. Small, four legged robots biting the dust, the soldier kept moving forward. Denseness in the air not leaving, the early adult's knees hardened. But, the hyena would not falter. Surely, just maybe, when the area was cleared, everything would reverse back to normal.

Smaller scale enemies removed from the equation with a few explosives, the early adult could feel sweat pour down his brow. The so called special weapons the Agent gave him, were they only useful towards weaker enemies? What a waste of bag space, if such were the case. Continuing onto the path, the robot casualties piled up one after another.

But the tides were about to change as the soldier headed further northeast. Stepping by a domain, the soldier swore he could feel himself getting pulled the doors. Attempting with all his might to break free, the hyena's body kept dragging forward. Realizing such, the chimera grit his teeth. What was he, a magnet?

Domain doors cracking open, the hyena surrendered himself to the gods above. Wherever he was about to be pulled into, his control was removed from the situation entirely. Blinding light overtaking him, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Opening them again once more after a few seconds, a strange room awaited him.

Small area with a white tree in the corner beside a platform, a peculiar greatsword had been laid down on the path in front of him. Claymore as white as the tree, the soldier picked up the weapon. He supposed borrowing it wouldn't hurt. Sheathing the blade behind him, the chimera strolled the path in front of him.

Key dissolving in front of him as he stepped foot on a platform, a sea of robots invited themselves to the party. Banner on the ceiling informing him he had to defat the enemies within five minutes, the hyena's heartbeat sped up a smidgeon. He was on a time limit? He had to pick up the pace, for sure.

Service robot with mechanical arms launching icicles in a flurry, the soldier jumped towards the right and left. Swiping the blade forward towards its hanging appendages, the early adult let out a battle cry. Time ticking with every second, the hyena kept the momentum going. Creature looking ready to blast ice towards him again, the hyena prepared his defenses.

Deflecting the shards back into the direction of which they came, the hyena kept his blade on the arm prize. First of four enemies removed, the soldier gazed at his wrist. Only three minutes remaining, panic welled up in the soldier's fingertips. Only one-hundred-eighty seconds left, he had to act faster.

Two Mekas exuding dark energy with a shield on their metallic hands, the early adult's blade took a dance with the defenses. Spotting a block of yellow energy in the corner, the soldier dashed off towards it. Energy surrounding him, for a moment, a loud crack echoed throughout the domain.

Second shard soon floating around him as the first one lost potency, shields aplenty had been broken like an expensive vase. Blade kicking up with as speedy of a force as the soldier could muster the two robots had become scrap metal after one-minute-and-thirty seconds of strikes.

Time only beginning to tick away faster, the early adult's blood had begun to run cold. Inorganic enemy wheeling over to him with gusto, the soldier spun the claymore around like a spinning top. Multiple rapid strikes serving the toppings hot, the hyena grunted. Time was running out. He needed to move faster.

Less than a minute soon remaining, the soldier let out a scream. Machine banging itself on the ground as well breaking the gravity around him, the early adult could feel himself hop upward like spring. Twenty seconds remaining, the soldier's blade and his body plunged downward.

Mechanical enemy sliced and diced like a cake as time had begun to run out on the clock, the monster had faded into the ether as the numbers on his wrist dialed down to five. Area soon expelling him, the soldier shook his head rapidly. What in the world just happened? But, he knew there was no time to ponder about it. He had to head towards the mountains.

Continuing upon the northern pathway, more robot monsters blocking the way, the hyena let out a sigh. The army was massive, for sure. Rummaging through the satchel, the soldier tossed down the black explosive orb of chaos. Loud boom overtaking the area, one group of enemies had been blown into smithereens.

Second group of mechanical obstacles taken out of the picture with bombs galore, the early adult's eyebrows had begun to twitch. Why had the fights hit the easy button, all of a sudden? Surely, there had to have been some sort of catch. But, he knew he should not get complacent, or the hard switch would be pressed.

Crowd of wall clinging machines given the kiss of bomb, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Was someone watching him? He couldn't help but feel there had been a person lurking around from behind the trees keeping track of every single move he was making.

Almost near the beaches, the soldier took a deep breath as the pathway had been cleared of all obstacles. Any second now, and he would be in the bird chimera's territory. If either of them were around, he would be become target practice. Readying to lower his walk into a tiptoe, the soldier sauntered onward.

But, such had proven to be ineffective. Bird duo on the premises fighting bounties the soldier attempted to move out of sight, out of mind. Attempting to walk off towards the edge, the chimera pressed forward. Surely, a bird's peripheral vision was a blind spot. Tiptoeing towards the corner, the early adult prayed to the hydro archon he wasn't supposed to worship for him to remain unseen.

Luck, and the archons were not on his side. Golden eyes glaring at him from afar, an arrow had soon been fired his way. Robot bounties falling like cicins, the soldier attempted to run. He was about to become the hawk's next bounty. He had to get out of here. Head for the mountains, get away.

Seeing the villainous Faui in his territory once again, Robin could feel his blood churn into butter inside his bird brain. How dare this villain step foot into his territory. This fiend was releasing his evil all over the place. If he doesn't leave right this instant, justice will be served to him upon an Electro platter.

"You, Fatui! Get off my territory!" Robin shouted, pointing. "Or, I will serve justice to you!"

Seeing his boyfriend get all fired up on justice, Raven turned towards the Fatui. Seeing the young man from afar fighting bounties as well, maybe it would be in his best interest to tell him he had been fighting his own battles outside their territory to cool any tension he might be feeling.

"He's fighting robots outside our territory, hon," Raven said, loose hair moving on the top of his head. "Maybe he's just passing through."

Hawk's face twisting into many different looks one after another, the soldier could feel sweat drop down his back. What was he witnessing. Had the falcon chimera said something he did not like? Is he were about to witness an argument? If such were the case, he needed to get away right now. But, a surprising set of words was soon launched in his direction.

"Fine, go through!" Robin shouted, pointing. He then lowered his voice into a whisper. "I hope justice knocks you down."

The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. What a kind parting gift from the hawk. Walking towards the pathway to the north, the soldier observed the area around him. Spotting a peculiar area that looked like researcher ruins the chimera titled his head. Was Mount Esus really in this direction? He could not help but feel some doubts.

Cruising through the stairways one after another, the soldier dashed through the fields in front of him. Soon finding himself in a large area with barely any mountain to speak of, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Had he really been in the mountains? But, he supposed the deeper he were to go, the closer he would be towards the cliffs.

Soon spotting short, mechanical monsters that looked like a robotic insect exuding pitch black aura, the hyena could feel a wave of intimidation flow through him. Had the atmosphere gotten thicker again? He could feel something darker lurking in the shadows. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. He had to exterminate the problem right away.

Borrowed Claymore still by his side, the soldier swung the blade forward. Greatsword not leaving any sort of dents, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. He supposed he had no choice but to let the explosives lead the way once more. Black ball of doom doing the honors, the hyena kept walking.

More insect like robotic creatures surrounding him as the hyena kept patrolling, the soldier let out a sigh. Scorching device of devastation fuse breaking loose, the early adult let out a sigh. How could anyone enjoy using such a weapon? It was a mystery to him that could never be solved.

Construction robots looking ready to eat the mountains like a little green rock monster in another universe, the early adult had sprung into action. Attempting with all his might to use the borrowed blade to tip the scales, the soldier let out a shout to the skies above. Surely, just maybe, one of the malicious energy filled monsters would fall to his temporary blade.

Nothing of any sort falling apart, the chimera tossed down another ball of doom. Roadside grass set ablaze, the soldier dashed off towards the river. Water. He needed to put out the horrifying flames. Everything doused, the soldier's legs erupted into a sprint. He needed to keep going. There was still many monsters to vanquish.

Hopping across a large body of water, multiple mechanical enemies had been downed as they attempted to chase him upon the lake. Sparks flying one after another as the leaps of faith continued, the chimera let out a pant. Water was every machine's worst enemy. Circling around the water for a few more moments, the lake before him was an sparking warzone to behold.

Soon reaching the end of the mountains on the east side, one final explosive gift had been given to the final army of robots. Atmosphere around him easing up, the soldier let out a puff of relief. Was his job done for today? It was time to head back to the capital city. But, such was a rash thought to be had, for sure. Next name on the list staring at him, the soldier gulped.

Note stating he had to go to an underwater seahorse cave within the Liffey Region, the soldier rose an eyebrow. He had to go where now? A cave underwater? But, he supposed whenever he were to reach such a place, he would be done for the day. Heading towards the body of water in the corner, the soldier reached for his diving suit.

Fat, blubbery suit engulfing him, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind and body synched, a spark popped off. Dropping himself into the body of water beneath him, the suit served its usual purpose. Finding himself in a familiar place with pipes underwater, the soldier had the suit push him towards the north.

Seeing a strange underwater building with multiple spotlights surveying the area, the early adult attempted to dodge such lights. Was he in the presence of a security unit? He needed to get away from such place if such were the case. Automatic suit twisting and curving, the hyena was off to the races.

Possible surveillance area dodged with many difficulties, the hyena's heart pounded like a mallet. Security was his worst enemy. Continuing to head northward for awhile, the chimera kept his eyes open for any cave. Coming across a passageway in the corner, the hyena's suit pushed him towards the new area.

Soon finding himself within the cave in question, the soldier readied himself to push through, but as he attempted to head for the surface area, a peculiar duo of strangers with spiky blue hair, and a light blue ponytail and otter bodies appeared on the scene practically out of nowhere. Dead looking eyes soon on him, questions had begun to arise.

"What do you want here?" otter number one asked.

Hearing such inquiry, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. Had he been in another bounty hunter's territory? If such were the case, he needed to find a way to make peace with them right away, or he would be their next target. He could not allow himself to become the enemy of another group of such. Pointing at the surface above him, the second otter shook their head.

"It's dangerous," otter number two said. "Turn back."

Suggestion to turn back coming his way, the chimera shook his head. He knew such was not possible. If he were to leave even a single enemy, he would disappoint Her Majesty, guaranteed. He had to keep going, no matter what. Pointing at the surface once more, the hyena let his defiance be known.

"Your funeral, then," otter number one said.

Group of strangers swimming away, the early adult pushed upwards towards the surface. Colorful cave filled to the brim with a pack of robots adorning horns and horse legs, the early adult's jaw dropped open. Was this where all the missing horses in Teyvat had went? But, the hyena threw such thought out the window. There was no way. What a leap and logic, on his part.

Creatures trotting his way as if they were some sort of majestic beast, the chimera placed his legs into a fighting stance. Borrowed blade in front of him, the soldier readied to give the first strike. But, such proved to be the wrong call to action, in an instant. Creature whinnying up a storm, its back legs were soon raised.

Mechanical horse shoes stomping upon him the early adult was as thin as paper. Group locking onto him with their limbs in kick succession of one another, the hyena fell onto his knees. Was this what horses were truly capable of? He recalled in his stolen childhood his parents had always told him, if he were ever near a horse to never go behind them. He needed to stand in front of them, for sure.

Dashing towards the robot equestrians front sides, the soldier attempted with all his might to slash his temporary greatsword forward. But, such attack never came. Light violet light concentrated at the center of their horns, the soldier attempted to back six steps away. Surely, if he was out of the way, whatever attack they were about to unleash, he needed to dodge.

Magic of many electrical properties zapping him a new one in a group, the early adult grit his teeth. What were these mechanical horses, a group of magical ponies who gained magic through friendship? Absolutely ridiculous. Friendship isn't magic. The power of magic and relationships were not intertwined in any way.

Attempting to group up the mechanical creatures into the center of the battlefield, the soldier let out a sigh. Maybe it was best to use one final explosive and leave the area. Coming to such conclusion, the gift of the circular denotator let out its boom upon the horde aplenty. Equestrians retiring themselves from the race, the soldier dropped himself back into the water.

But as the chimera returned himself to Mount Esus East, the robots struck back. Seeing such, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. How had the creatures come back from the scrap metal ashes? Whoever set them down to wreck havoc had to have brought them back to operational levels while he had dove deep.

Group of robots brought back down to their scrap metal piles as he cruised through the mountains, the soldier sauntered onward. How were they able to be reconstructed so quickly? Did these machines have a self repairing function? What an absolutely terrifying ability to be had, for sure.

Insect machines broken down into nothing, the mountainsides were about to reach their endgame. Removing everything from the equation, the soldier tiptoed through the beachside. Hawk and falcon chimera nowhere to be seen, the hyena stayed on high guard. No matter what, he had to continue proceeding with caution.

Finding himself beside the domain once more, the soldier stepped back inside, for a moment. Returning the claymore to its rightful place, the chimera excused himself. Next set of creatures broken into pieces with his hyena claws, the court city was soon nearing. Final set of mechanical enemies brought back to their mechanical graves, the robots had become one with nature.

Turning his head towards the sky above him, the midnight blue world above him parted the clouds. Had it already been close to late evening? Feeling his stomach roaring inside him, the hyena blinked. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to grab a quick meal. Heading towards the boutique, the soldier prepared himself. Descending the staircase, a meaty scent awaited him.

Malika the only one around sewing up a storm in the corner, the soldier blinked. Was she still working at this time at night? What a hard working penguin, she was. But, the hyena threw such thought away. Did he just compliment a penguin? How terrible, awful. Malika stopping her craft for a moment, words had come his way.

"Welcome back, darling," Malika said, voice tired. "I left you some barbeque ribs in case you were hungry."

Munching down on the meat dish, the soldier could not help but wonder once more. Were penguins carnivores? All the times he had eaten with this family, he had never seen them eat any sort of dish with vegetables whatsoever. But, he supposed the diets of other chimeras was no business of his.

Malika allowing him to use the guestroom, the soldier walked off towards his temporary quarters. Wave of tiredness taking over him as late night had begun to kick in, the soldier removed his hairpins and earrings. Glasses removed as well, the chimera slumped into the temporary bed. Knowing his job was far from over, one final thought swam through his fading human mind as the world of sleep took him away.

What will await him tomorrow?

***

"That vile villain Fatui!
He's at it again!
Ah, I saw him wearing around
The city, plotting, scheming!

Fatui, this time, justice will be served to you!
Ah, yes, this time, I know what I will do
To bring him to justice! I'll
Unleash the ultimate trump card!
I am on our Archon's good side! We're giving her results!

The legal system!
He won't see what's coming!
I'll bring him down in court!
So, just you wait, vile villain!

This time, if I catch you
In my territory, you will be in the courtroom!
May the Chief Justice find you guilty!
Everyone will be on the side of justice!

I, Robin, won't let you be judged innocent!

We have all the proof needed to
Instantly lock you away! We have all the proof needed to
Let the scales tip guilty! We have all the proof needed to
Let justice take its course!

Have an unsafe trip to the Fortress of Meropide!
As I'm sure Raven and I will catch you doing a
Villainous deed!
Everyone agrees! All these sudden happens are Fatui caused!

Justice will come! You will be
Usurped by the hammer of judgement!
So, fight your own 'bounties' all you like!
These eyes of mine are watching you,
I can see your various planned
Crimes! I see
Everything!

But he has not appeared in my territory today.
Every vile villain has their

Strategies of wretched villainy. In the
Evening, we will patrol the city.
Raven has already agreed.
Various people do not trust those Fatui!
Everyone should be eagle eyed.
Don't let this heinous person do his

Treacherous plot!
Out with the evil!

Here's to another day of heroism! For
I, Robin, won't let these villains win!
May justice soon be served to you!"

Upon waking up the next morning, the early adult read through the next set of locations on the sheet of paper. Taking note a majority of the areas listed were underwater, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Today was going to be a difficult day guaranteed. Leaving the guestroom, the hyena prepared to stage his exit.

But, as the chimera readied to leave the boutique a small commotion played out in front of him. Hearing Malika tell Kaiser to go around the court city to film suspicious behavior, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had something bad happened while he was asleep? But, the young soldier kept himself quiet. It was not in his business to ask such a question.

Knowing it was in his best interest to had for the Elton Trench first, the early adult headed towards the Aquabus station. Automatic vehicle cruising across the water, the soldier stared off into space around him. What could possibly be happening in Fontaine? What kind of suspicious activity was spotted overnight?

Vessel passing by Poisson tunnel, the soldier gazed at the ship city off in the corner. Could the rest of the Belleau region be dealing with the robot issues, as well? He supposed he would find out later, if such were to be the case. Turning his attention back to the ride in front of him, the chimera remained still.

Reaching Romaritime Harbor, the hyena prepared himself to head to the beaches. Surface world around him free of any robots to speak of, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. There was no enemies on land for him to face today. Was luck finally on his side? But, he knew he had to prepare himself for anything.

Reaching the beaches, the chimera readied to put on his diving equipment. But, as he had begun to place his fat suit of blubber over his uniform, a splash of water caught the soldier by surprise. Backing four steps away as a head pulled up from the water, the soldier kept walking back.

Seeing Kali swimming towards the surface and eventually stepping her bare feet on the sand, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was the sea lion sister by herself? But, the soldier kept such question to himself. It was no business of his whatsoever who she was with or what she was up to. Eyes soon on him, the hyena let out a gulp. Was he in her way? He would move, if so.

Spotting what was the Fatui's name again, Scorch, in the corner with his diving equipment on, Kali rose an eyebrow. What was he doing here again? Was he here for some sort of work? The oceans were dangerous right now. Maybe she should let him know about that before he were to continue his descent downward.

"I would be um, careful if I were you," Kali warned. "Err, it's, uh, dangerous down there."

Nodding, the soldier stepped towards the shallow ends of the water. Hadn't he just fixed a hated water problem? Surely, another set of robots in the seas beneath him would be much of a problem. Mind and body soon syncing up with his diving suit, the chimera was ready for take off. But, as he was about to brought down to the trench, one last set of words had been sent his way.

"Good luck, then, I guess," Kali said.

Recalling the sheet of paper listed the scorching cavern within the trench section the soldier had his diving suit thrust him towards the heated cave of many horrors. Sea of weak looking fish robots crawling along the walls the soldier's aquatic jellyfish explosive from his glove did the honors.

Watery explosive setting off around the rest of the mechanical creatures, the soldier soon brought himself towards the surface. Soon finding himself pushing the monsters towards the heated waters, the hyena dropped down back to the waters beneath. Had the robotic creatures been far weaker down within the ocean? But, he knew he could not let such quick victories let him become complacent. He had to stay on his toes, no matter what.

Moving towards the other volcanic cavern under the sea, fishy fiends exuding waves of darkness swarmed around the hot room in front of him. drilled creature's looking ready to doze him into submission, the hyena pressed the shield button on his left glove. Defenses soon out, the soldier prepared himself.

Projectiles coming his way, the early adult held his glove in place. Cross hair appearing in front of him in the form of a bubble, the soldier sent the attack back towards its owner. First set of enemies vanquished with their own attack, the hyena had the diving suit thrust him towards the left.

Next set of aquatic robots beaten down with their own defenses, the chimera gazed at his left glove, for a moment. Still only seeing four buttons, the hyena kept moving forward. He supposed he still only had four options at his disposal underwater, for the time being. Next set of enemies clinging against the walls, the chimera prepared himself.

Dropping down another watery explosive, the apparent ability from the jellyfish blasted itself outward. Leaving the cavern world as the aquatic robot had become nothing but scrap metal, the early adult had his diving suit push him forward. Spotting a multitude of monsters with malicious energy surrounding them around the north and eastern currents, the hyena would not falter.

Spotting a peculiar array of mechanical sea star exuding an odd swirling around their copious amount of suction cups, a chill dropped down the chimera's spine. Had he been in the presence of something demonic? The energy protruding around the small robotic creature, it felt out of place, for sure.

Aquatic blade doing the honors across the black suction cups, the soldier swore he could see something on the other side of the portal. But, the hyena kept his attention on the monster. He needed to focus. There was no time for him to get lost in thought. Creature gone after fifteen slashes, the star burned itself out.

Continuing along the northeastern path, the hyena soon came to the discovery of robotic jellyfish. Seeing such, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Had the creatures from other nations found their way in the Fontaine waters? He needed to remove them right away before they had a chance to spark things up more than a little.

Blade taking more than ten attempts to cut through the creature's defenses, the chimera could feel his energy waver a smidgeon. The easy switch had flipped towards medium indeed. Second set of mechanical jellyfish robots taking twice as long to vanquish, the soldier headed towards the eastern pathway once more.

Mechanical crabs hiding themselves in their shells in a matter of moments, the early adult pressed the echo button upon his glove. Sonar wave taking the stage, the creature had begun to retreat from the battlefield as the sound readied itself to break any glass nearby. Malicious creatures cleared out, the soldier halted his movement, for a moment.

Feeling a huge amount of energy towards the shipwreck in the corner, the soldier made haste. Mekas that looked like they had come from the surface world, a shock shot down the hyena's spine. Had someone attempted to deploy a meka guard under the ocean? No wonder if had gone rogue. Such place was not appropriate for robotic creatures to be able to do their jobs properly.

Enemies vanquished with the jellyfish heads of many explosives, the chimera had the swim suit thrust him upward. Figuring his next course of action was to head towards the Chemin de l'Espoir, the westward journey was soon upon him. Heavy atmosphere only getting thicker, the soldier could not believe his eyes as he pushed on.

Spotting at least a triple dozen enemies along the water currents, the soldier's heart skipped two beats. Was the largest trench underwater back to the way it was when it had was being heated up only four days prior? If it had already been reversing, he had to undo the damage once more, without a doubt.

Knowing defeating the high amount of enemies by himself would take an entire day's worth of blade slashes, the hyena let out a sigh upon the ocean bed. Perhaps it was time to unleash the robotic toy to the world below him. Rummaging through his satchel, the small device had been beside him. Peculiar looking secondary device with directional buttons and a reload and launch clicker, the chimera braced himself. If this machine were to heat up the waters, he would cancel using such object, in an even heartbeat.

Cruising the machine across the waters as his diving suit swam for him beside it, the chimera prepared himself. It was just a weapon. A Catalyst; a gift from Her Majesty. Surely, it wouldn't bring harm to the ocean. Button pressed, a loud sound that disrupted the entire rhythm of the world created a mushroom cloud around two fishy enemies.

Next set of explosives letting their shot get heard around the world, Siorc grit his teeth. Why were these black spheres of doom so much louder than the rest of them? If the undersea penguins heard any of this, he would be on their hit list immediately, without any question. Surely, they had to have some sort of silencer on them.

But, no such button for silence existed. Pushing through the area as his explosives let down their cacophony of doom, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Why couldn't this machine quiet down? It was almost if, in the world of Teyvat volume was a setting, and the only way to reduce it was to go through multiple menus. But, such fact was unknown to the soldier.

Western side of the waters only getting closer, the chaos unfolded from the machine kept its rampage going. Everything around him caught up in the many explosions, regret flowed through the chimera. He should have just stuck with the aquatic blade. But, it was too late to take back his decision. It had already been decided.

Hours passing by as larger meka with sinister energy had the black sphere of chaos dropped down upon them, the soldier swore he could hear growls shooting off at him from the distance. Hearing such, the chimera turned his head towards the right and left. Any minute now, and he would be in the presence of he undersea penguins.

Final set of robotic creatures taken out of the picture as he approached Chemin de l'Espoir, the early adult bagged the horrific machine into his satchel. But, as he headed further east, a predictable sight was about to break the sound barrier a smidgeon further. Penguin duo swimming towards him at lightning speed, the chimera could feel his body grow heavy.

Hearing loud noises across the trench, Vidame could hardly believe her eyes. How dare Ritchie Rich deploy a large, expensive machine underwater. Who did he think he was? After what happened the other day with the other machines down in the research institute? She knew it, all rich people were bad. This peace treaty was over.

Spotting Ritchie Rich from kilometers away cruising his slimy, disgusting expensive hands on a disgusting machine Domini let out a growl. This Mora bags, how dare he come back down to the Elton trench with his horrid machines. That's it. He had done it now. He was no longer on neutral terms. Rich people were the world's most evil people.

"Those robots that came down here, you caused their sudden boom in population, didn't you?!" Vidame asked in an accusatory tone. "That's it! This peace treaty is done!"

"You and your stupid machines, Ritchie Rich!" Domini shouted at the top of his gills. "You've made an enemy out of us! Remember that!"

Knowing that, if he did not head for the surface now, he would be harmed, for sure, the soldier had his automatic diving suit push him towards the surface. Undersea penguin chimeras chanting in unison to get out over and over again, the early adult accelerated his ascent. He had to get out of here, right now, or he would be toast.

Hopping across the water as fast as his currently human legs would carry him, the soldier dashed onto the beach. Perhaps, it was best to head for Merusea Village before he was caught in some sort of cross water. Sprinting across the beach, the hyena readied to head for the Beryl Region.

Jumping across the next lake, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was it just his imagination, or had there been no robotic monsters anywhere on the surface even near the Beryl Region? Surely, he had to have been imagining such. Perhaps, just maybe they were hiding somewhere deeper.

Walking off towards the mountains, the chimera kept himself on high alert. But, such had felt unnecessary once more. Nothing around, not even Hilichurls or the orb creatures, the chimera could feel himself flip upside down on a y-axis. Where was everything? Had even the monsters been scared? How peculiar.

Stepping beside the boiling isle, the silence was deafening. Where had everything and everyone gone to? The world around him was so quiet, that his own thoughts would be able to be heard by the world around him. Stepping towards the statue beside the pool near the Merusea Village, the chimera's diving suit dove him downward to the hidden establishment.

Catastrophe a sea lion's flipper, the soldier could not believe his eyes as he dropped downward into the underwater portion of the village. Brume and Éclater on the case, the soldier's jaw practically dropped on the floor. Were his eyes deceiving him, or had the sea lion pranksters actually been doing work for a change? Party of two turning towards him, a sea of words had come his way.

"Go to portal world, bro!" Brume exclaimed. As he said such, a robot had been vanquished by his scythe.

"Yeah, dude, we already got this!" Éclater added. "Not so lazy now, are we?"

Watching the sea lion prankster duo destroying one machine after another, the soldier concurred with such. Maybe they were actually useful after all. Heading off towards the eastern side of the undersea village the small room with the portal awaited him. Taking a deep breath, the chimera tossed himself inside.

Multitude of mechanical beings spread out across the purple sky world, the soldier braced himself. What kind of difficult fights were about to await him? Removing himself from the diving suit for the time being, the soldier placed the loud toy in front of him. No one was around, surely there would no disturbances here.

Strange machine in the shape of a dog with a kamera like head the soldier could feel his heart sink. Why would anyone make a canine creature into a robot? All the poor, innocent dogs in the world, were they about to be replaced? He could not allow for such possibility to ever become a reality. Droning the machine towards the miserable creature, the denotation had begun.

Pack of mechanical dogs turned into scrap metal, a wave of remorse flowed through the soldier. No matter what form such took on, in some way, it was still a dog. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. Why was he letting himself feel regret now? It was an enemy with malicious energy, it had to be removed.

Continuing along the pathway, an array of large feline robots with metallic heads in the shape of an arrowhead glared daggers at the chimera. Seeing such, the early adult could feel himself float away. Who would make such a robot? Could it even see? He needed to bring these creatures out of their misery.

Monsters removed from the equation after seven shots of the devices spheres of chaos, the chimera gazed at the rubbled remains around him. Whoever made these meka models made a huge mistake. But, he knew he had to keep his focus on the fight in front of him, for the time being.

Everything fading into the ether as he circled around the ruins for what felt like hours on end, the chimera let out a tired huff. Had he destroyed everything? But, the soldier swore he could hear a disruptive mechanical bark coming from the rooftops. Spotting a strange collection of purple portals everywhere, the chimera placed himself in the first one.

Sea of peculiar mechanical stingrays making their presence known, the early adult let out a sigh. It was time to get rid of the creatures upon the roofs before the portal world were to become a cesspool of dark energy. Creatures exuding a powerful force ready to suck everyone in, the early adult cruised the possible catalyst above the enemy's robotic heads.

Collection of parts and gears bursting onto the ground, the hyena kept moving through the portal spaces, more mechanical stingrays awaited the chimera. Seeing more than ten of them forming a circle, the hyena could not help but continue to wonder once more. Who could have possibly made these machines, and why were they all exuding malicious energies? Gift of doom and boom thrusted upon them, the next ceiling was ready to be raided of its loot of nothing.

Batch of black balls of chaos gone as he removed the creatures from the story, the early adult gazed at the reload button. Hovering his finger over the clicker, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Would it really refill itself if he pressed this? Tapping it, the hyena waited.

New set of explosives appearing as if they had never left, the soldier blinked. Did the machine have them hidden in some sort of compartment somewhere? What an impressive automation system, if such were the case. Every single roof and ceiling creature soon removed, the chimera dashed back towards the area's entrance. Diving suit back on, the chimera entered the portal. Having his diving suit push him towards the surface, the hyena prepared to leave, but as he had readied to do so, the sea lion pranksters chased after him.

"Things are getting really bad down here, bro!" Brume exclaimed, voice in desperation mode.

"This is really scary, dude!" Éclater exclaimed, flippers moving up and down in a frantic manner. "All our sisters are scared!"

The hyena could feel a pity cherry drop down into the center of his stomach. The Melusines were frightened by everything that was going on? If any more reports involving malicious mechanical beasts were reported to him later, he would make it his mission to come back here first and foremost.

Sea lion prankster duo insisting on him to go on ahead back up to air world for now, the hyena did so with as much reluctance as a young child being forced to eat their vegetables. If they had the area taken care of, it was best to not disturb their work. Returning to the surface world, the chimera walked back towards Romaritime Harbor, but as he had done so, a sea of question crashed at bay.

Question nibbling on his ear further, the hyena stared off into space. Just what was happening in Fontaine lately? He could not help but feel something far worse would soon be in store for the Hydro Nation of Justice than he originally thought. Gloomy thoughts raining over him as the Aquabus brought him back to the capital city, the soldier swore an invisible raincloud was over his shoulder.

But, as the soldier stepped foot into the main city, an array of explosions boomed across every single street corner. Multiple Meka Gardes dropping on the ground like Cicins one after another, the chimera's heart skipped four beats. What was happening? Chaos in the streets and nothing but faces white as the sheets, the early adult attempted to run towards the boutique.

Safety was dead. He had to get away.

More robots going boom in a collective, the early adult kept trying to run with all his might that remained. What was going on? Where were all these explosions coming from? Who, or what could be doing all this? City's defensive units waving the white flag on their mechanical lives, the Fontaine citizens yelped in unison. Continuing to run, the early adult tried to keep his screams inside him.

His own safety was about to die twice as hard.

Hearing an explosion right beside him, the soldier's eyebrows twitched rapidly as a Meka Garde had bit the dust less than a meter away from his presence. Seeing such, the world around the soldier clouded. Hawk chimera in the corner glaring at him, everything around him shrunk.

Game over.

He was definitely getting a finger pointed at him.

Any second now.

Seeing another heroic robot downed by a heinous explosion, the bonafide perpetrator of the crime exposed himself to the many citizens in a panic. He should have known the Fatui had been up to this. It was time to bring the Archon into this once and for all. Justice brain on, he pointed his index finger at the culprit.

"You fiend, you did this!" Robin shouted, pointing. He then rose his voice. "Lady ------, I found your criminal!" He raised the volume of his voice even higher. The world needed to hear of this villain's crimes. "Bring justice to us all!"

"My dear Robin," the Hydro Archon responded almost immediately. "I accept your proposal!" Dramatic theatrics playing out for a few moments, she then pointed at Siorc. "I sentence you to a trial!"

"See you in court, fiend!" Robin exclaimed. But, a plea had been sandwiched in between.

"Lady ------, if you would be so kind, could you give this until tomorrow as my partner and I gather more evidence?" Robin added.

Chaos brewing in the streets, the early adult's heart had begun to beat harder and faster in his chest. Idle gossip tossed his way in every corner, the soldier sprinted as fast as he possibly could. Get away, he had to leave the premises. He had to be outside the gaze of the population. Eyes on him everywhere, the hyena kept running. There were people everywhere; everyone had already seen him, it was too late. But, as he kept running he could feel someone push him away.

Kaiser placing inside grassy hedges, an index had soon been pressed against the penguin's lips. Temporary not thorn in his side sliding himself into hedgeworld as well, the oddly normally dressed penguin invisible knees had soon been bent forward. Looking ready to say something the early adult took a deep breath.

"I know you didn't do it," Kaiser whispered. "Earl I will will fight for you." Crunching through the hedges, he slipped forward. "Let's go back to the boutique."

Penguin acting completely normal and not bragging about beauty, a wave of discomfort flowed through the chimera. No matter how many times he had been a witness to such form of Kaiser, he could not help but feel a wave of horror flow through him. He could not believe what he was thinking, but he hoped he would go back to be his normal pesky self soon. Singular thought amongst the chaos inside him soon gone, the seas of discomfort flowed back.

Dashing off towards the guestroom, in an instant, the soldier threw himself under the temporary covers. Tomorrow, there was no way he would be found innocent. Without a doubt, he would be judged guilty. No one would be on his side, he was a member of the Fatui. Thoughts going with him in the dream world, the fact repeated itself once more.

He was going to be found guilty, guaranteed.

***

Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal in the hyena's adult life. The cycle of anguish was a bridge, crumbling as he walked along it. The night before him would break the final part of the crossing, dropping him down into the endless sea of pain beneath him, swallowing him whole.

Before him had been a caged world with nothing but sunflowers around him. Seeing such, a sea of rage flowed through the soldier. He was being held prisoner with flowers? Disgusting. Let him out of this metal trap this instant. His cellmate, why did it have to be nature? He would not tolerate such a crime.

Dream minutes passing by, the unknown strangers had become unwanted visitors once more, deep smiles of many sinister proportions plastered on their faces, the early adult let out a gulp. Why were these people in his subconscious world again? They needed to get out of his head, whoever they were. Group of two soon guffawing away, a seed planted itself.

"This is what you get for meddling with our plans!" one of the hooded strangers exclaimed.

"You hope he likes oneself's little gift!" the other hooded stranger shouted.

Hearing such, a realization washed over the soldier. The hooded strangers, they had to have been responsible for this. The malicious robots, the explosions. They were guilty, for sure. But, as his thoughts circled around, flames had passed through the bars, in an instant. Entire body below the neck encased in flames, another laugh overtook the area.

"Nyahaha! That's what you get for messing with the abyss!" one of the hooded strangers shouted maniacally.

World around him burning, the early adult dropped down upon the caged floor. Metallic imprisonment set ablaze, defeat hugged the soldier from behind. Laughs firing up as his dream body had become ashes on the wind, one final thought broke loose as he became no more in the not reality before him.

It's all over for him.

***

"It's all over.
They're going to find me guilty.

It's all over.
So much evidence against me.

Over. Done. I'm finished.
Villain, I am seen as.
Everyone will vote me guilty.
Right, they think I'm the villain.

It's all over.
They're going to throw me in the Fortress of Meropide.

I'm too weak for prison.
Something tells me I won't last an hour in

One. But that's where I'm going, guaranteed. After all, I'm a
Villain, right? I'll be found guilty, immediately.
Even though I didn't do it, everyone is against me.
Right, I'm guilty, even if I'm innocent.

It's all over.
They're going to sentence me.

I am certain, without a doubt.
Since there is no way anyone will listen to me. It's

Over, it's over it's over. It's over. It's over, it's over, it's over, it's over.
Villain I am, according to everyone and
Everybody. Human, chimera,
Right, the world sees me as evil.

It's all over.
This is the end of my freedom.

I'll never see sunlight. Not that I ever do, really, but
Soon, I won't ever witness it again. It's

Over, it's over, it's over, it's over, it's over, it's over, it's over, it's over, it's all over for me.
Villain I am, according to everyone, and
Everybody. Human, chimera.
Right the world sees me as evil. For I am the member of the Fatui."

Feeling arms tapping him as he had been awoken at dawn, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Why was he being awakened so early? But, the soldier remembered, in an instant. Right, he had a court case he had to go to that would charge him guilty. His life was over.

"Sorry to wake you up so early, darling," Malika said in a gentle voice. "But, you have to get ready to head to Opera Epicelese." She the paused for a moment. "I know you didn't do it. We'll all try to prove your innocence."

The early adult shook with a fervor. Be proven innocent? There was absolutely no way that was going to happen. He was, without any shadow of a doubt about to be found guilty. It was game over, for his life, for sure. He was about to become a jail hyena, forever locked away behind bars.

Suit soon handed off to the hyena, the soldier almost let out a gag. He had to wear such a thing? But, he knew he didn't have a choice. Vile, leathers burning him as he placed the outfit over him, the soldier wished he had broken heart hairpins and earrings. But, such did not exist, for sure.

Seeing the look of discomfort on Siorc's face, Malika frowned. Did he not like the suit? Maybe she should have asked him questions the night before giving him such before having him head off to the opera house. She would need to keep in mind his preferences next time.

"Would you have preferred a dress?" Malika asked. "My utmost apologies, darling."

Hearing Malika's apologies, the soldier sighed. He supposed it did not matter what he was about to wear to the opera house, he was going to be sent to prison either way. His days walking around doing his forced upon career was done, finished, cancelled. Thoughts clouding him as he had been taken to Marcotte Station station flowed through the soldier's brain.

As the Aquabus was getting closer towards Erinnyes, the early adult could feel fears swallow him. Whole. It was over, he was done, finished, cancelled, guilty without a true trial. Everything was over for him before it could even begin. There was no way any defenses he could possibly have would save him now. Soon reaching the pathway towards the opera house, the Archon's bodyguard stepped forward.

"Stand in a straight line," the bodyguard demanded.

Forced to walk in a manner the tall woman demanded of him, the soldier tried walking as straight as possible. Multiple fountains passed by, the chimera took pained deep breaths. It was over, he was done, finished, cancelled, automatically found guilty. Opera house doors soon opened, the bodyguard glared daggers at him.

Crowd of people gazing at him with whispers that there was the criminal, the chimera gulped. He was already done, burned, ashes. Bodyguard demanding he get up on one of the stages platforms, hundreds of pairs of eyes were on him, in an instant. Bird chimera duo on stage, Iudex taking his seat, and Hydro Archon in the highest chair in the courtroom, the theatrics were all set into motion. Court in session, a finger had been pointed at the hawk chimera.

"Dear Robin," the Hydro Archon started. "Present to everyone in the court what happened!"

The early adult could feel himself shaking in his seat up above. Everyone, without a doubt was going to judge him guilty, guaranteed. There was no way anyone believed he was innocent. It was over, everything was done. After a few minutes, he would given his guilty sentence.

Crowd's eyes all on him, the soldier could feel himself about to turn to stone. Why did everyone have to look at him like that? Eyes, they were scary when they were glaring at him. He swore as they kept on looking, the audience's eyes were glowing red. He was getting his guilty sentence right now, any second.

"Of course, Lady ------," Robin said at the top of his lungs. He then pointed his finger at the villain. "This fiend, I saw him blowing up all the Meka Gardes! He went around the Court of Fontaine and killed them with no mercy!"

"This kid?" one of the audience members asked. "He looks too weak!"

"Is this guy mistaken?" another audience member commented.

Hearing such chatter about, the soldier blinked. Maybe there was a small, miniscule point one percent chance he would be found innocent. But as the audience's chatter continued with an array of people stating the ones that look the cutest are the ones are the most likely to do the crime, panic welled up inside the hyena.

"I didn't do it!" Siorc accidentally shouted out. "I, I would never do anything to harm Fontaine's safety!" But, his plea was soon interrupted.

"This fiend was carrying around bombs!" Robin retaliated. "Raven saw him! We both did! Iudex, he's guilty! Lock him up now!"

"This kid has bombs?" one the audience members asked. "Is anyone safe anymore?"

"Even the young ones have their own evil agendas nowadays!" another audience member added. But, a cane had soon been slammed from up above.

"Settle down!" the Iudex shouted. "Robin, do not speak out of turn!"

"I have proof!" Robin retaliated once more. "He doesn't deserve his turn!" He then pointed at his boyfriend. "Raven, present the evidence!"

"Of course, hon," Raven responded. As he said such, a black explosive had been removed from his back pocket.

Falcon chimera pulling out almost a nearly identical bomb from his pockets that had been labelled with a sticky piece of paper entitled abyssal gift the soldier could feel his blood run cold. Who planted that? It was definitely not his. The abyss, what in the world was that? Who in the world was that?

Hearing the audience call him an evil monster, the early adult could feel himself become a pile of glue. No, there's no way he could stay silent. That weapon, it was not his. There was no way. His satchel, it was already almost empty. Abyssal gift, who wrote that? It was certainly not him. No way, he had to say something, he had to come to his own defense.

"That's not mine!" Siorc blurted out. "What's the abyss? I haven't any idea!"

Oratrice ball lighting up towards the guilty side, the hyena could feel a bubble of panic pop inside him. Right, he shouldn't have spoken at all. He was only making everything worse for himself, for sure. Raven looking ready to take his turn to submit more evidence, the chimera zippered the lip. It was all over for him, guaranteed.

"While my bounty hunter partner and I were going about our duties, we saw this young man carrying around quite the heavy looking bag," Raven said, hand on his chin. "I suspect it contained multiple bombs in it with this very message."

"I saw him with a bag, too!" one of the audience members shouted.

"That checks out!" another audience member shouted.

Everyone discussing amongst themselves the contents of his satchel, the soldier could feel the waves of justice swallow him. He's toast, done, cooked into a chicken. His bag had bombs in it, there was no way he could defend himself in such a situation. He was guilty, guaranteed.

"This little monster!" another audience member shouted. "Destroying our gardes!"

"I trust the bounty hunters!" another audience member shouted.

"Robin should have hunted him!" yet another audience member shouted.

Hearing everyone chatter about, the early adult continued to shake even further. All of this was a misunderstanding. All of this was just a poor timed happenstance. Surely, someone within the audience had to see this. But, he knew there was nothing he could say that would convince them he was innocent. Surely, someone had to have seen the true culprit in all of this. But, everyone was about to get worse for wear.

"I have proof he's guilty, too!" the Hydro Archon shouted with bravado. "Everyone, there's a Fatui amongst you, and it's---" but she had been cut off as her revelation was about to kick in.

"Lady ------, do not speak out of turn," the Iudex demanded in an authoritative tone.

"I can take my turn as I please!" the Hydro Archon fired back.

Hundreds of eyes on him once again, the early adult could feel himself melt into a pile of jelly. Any second now, and he's going to be exposed. Identity revealed, everyone will know what his occupation is. There was no way he would be able to back himself up now. Minutes droning by, the finger point of accusation had come his way.

"My fellow people, this little bomber is part of the Fatui!" the Hydro Archon announced.

"There's a Fatui among us!" one audience member shouted.

"Unbelievable, he's guilty!" another audience member shouted.

Scaled tipping and bending, the early adult's eyes twitched in a rapid manner. He's done, finished, guilty, exposed. The entire courtroom, they knew his identity. The Opera Epiclese, they all knew who he was in society now. It was over, he's done for. He's going to rot in a prison cell any second now.

"He's shaking!" Robin exclaimed, pointing. "He knows he's guilty! Start the vote now!"

Everyone chattering that he was definitely the one who did it, the soldier could feel the world around him going black. It was over. He was done, finished, toast, cooked into a chicken, served raw. Kaiser and Earl nowhere to be seen, the chimera grit his teeth, the chimera's will withered. He should have known the penguins wouldn't really help him.

"Is there anyone who would like to say anything else?" the Iudex asked.

No one else saying a word, the soldier readied to accept his fate. Iudex stating it was time to start the vote, the hyena waved the white flag above his head. It was over now, he was guilty, convicted, a prisoner forever, never to be seen again. But, as the votes were about to start, the loud slam of a door hit the wall on the other side.

"Who's this now?!" the crowd all shouted in unison.

Spotting Kaiser stomping into the courtroom in a surprisingly normal looking sundress with Earl hiding behind him, the early adult held back the urge to groan. It was double over now, he was toast, cooked into a chicken with salmonella poisoning. If Kaiser is defending him, he's guilty.

"Chief Justice, this young man is innocent!" Kaiser exclaimed, his voice was authoritative. "I have proof!" But, a cane was soon banged up above.

"Kaiser, this is breaking court protocol," the Iudex said. But Earl soon cut in.

"Chief Justice, please allow us to present our evidence!" Earl exclaimed. "We apologize for our late arrival!"

The soldier gazed at Earl. He didn't deserve this backup. The penguin chimera, he had never shown him any sort of kindness. This support, what did he do to be gifted with it? He had always been cold, distant, irritable. Kaiser, he had always acted annoyed around him, this was far from something he was entitled to.

Kaiser handing off a photo book to the Iudex, a series of pictures had been blasted on full display of a series of hooded figures tossing explosives throughout the city. Seeing such, the hyena could not help but recall. Right, Malika had asked him to go around the city to gather evidence of suspicious activity.

Earl bringing his satchel up to the stage exclaiming there was no bombs in there, only diving equipment, a realization had come over the soldier. Had he emptied out his bag? He definitely would need to thank him for such later, guaranteed. Chatter flowing through the audience, a particular set of words had been looped on repeat.

"Robin accused an innocent person?" one of the audience members asked. "What a joke!"

Vile penguin accomplices presenting counter evidence, Robin's face grew dark. This wretched group of men, they helped the Fatui hide the evidence. Everyone insulting him for minutes on end, any comeback he had removed itself from his birdbrain. It was over, he was all washed out.

Oratrice soon glowing for the entire court case to see, the Iudex read out the verdict. Scales tipping towards innocent, the early adult could feel relief wash over him. He was innocent, really, and truly judged not guilty? Was he dreaming? Feeling sensation throughout him, the soldier shook his head. There was no way he was dreaming right now.

"Robin, you wasted the court's time!" the Hydro Archon shouted, pointed. "Don't expect to be doing any bounties for at least a week!"

Hawk running off the stage with a look of pain on his face and falcon partner chasing after him, the hyena blinked bewilderment. He supposed, whatever he might have been feeling right now, he understood to some degree. Humiliation was the most painful emotion in the world. He had been there, and done that. Court soon adjourning, only the penguins and he remained.

Feeling an overwhelming sea of emotions flow through him, the soldier sprinted off towards the fancily dressed penguin chimera. Arms soon wrapped around him, tears streamed down the hyena's face. Earl's support, what did he do to deserve any of this? But, his thoughts soon popped.

"Thank you," Siorc choked out.

Siorc giving him a sudden hug out of nowhere, Earl basked in his future husband's warmth. A sudden embrace? He should marry him right now and become his wife! But, he paused such thoughts inside him. Now was not the time to get into lovey dovey mode. Focus, Earl, focus.

"We all knew you were innocent!" Earl responded. "We weren't going your cute self to be falsely accused of being guilty!"

Bowing one final thank you, the hyena exited the opera house. But, as he stepped outside, the Agent awaited him. Seeing him, a wave of fear flowed through him. Was he about to get the scolding of a lifetime for what chaos had just unfolded? He would need to apologize for such right away, no questions asked. But, no anger presented itself to him.

"Be more careful next time, soldier," the Agent warned. "You're dismissed, for now. Return to Snezhnaya immediately."

Knowing he had to do as he was told, the chimera removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Orb opened up into map form, the hyena highlighted the waypoint in the military barracks. Icy cold hallways soon upon him, the chimera headed for the steel walled room.

Soundproof room upon him after fifteen minutes of walking, the soldier walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. The hooded strangers, why were they attempting to seek revenge? Surely, he hadn't done that much aside from thwarting their plans a couple of times. Looping back in his motion about, a spark popped off in his brain.

The hooded strangers, next time he saw them, he would have to defeat them, finish them, end them. But, the early adult stopped such line of thinking. Why was he jumping to such violence? There was no way he could harm them, or their revenge plots would only be fueled even more. Circling around once more, another sea of thoughts engulfed him.

The entire court room, his identity had been exposed to him. The days going forward were not going to be easy for him. Every step he took would be monitored, for sure. Nothing he would do would not be seen. Everyone knew who he was, it was over now. No matter what the verdict was, he was guilty, to some people.

Wave of tiredness eventually overtaking him, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside as well, the early adult closed his eyes. But as the world of tormented dreams were about to invite him back in, one final thought wrapped vines around him.

It's game over; he was exposed.

Chapter 8: Fleuve Cendre Chronicles: Gears and Scales

Chapter Text

"This is all my fault
How could I let myself get
Into a court case?
So many people are out to get me now.

I was exposed
So much will go awry.

Ah, I was judged innocent.

Will that keep people from
Regarding me poorly?
Obviously not.
No one likes the Fatui.
Guess I'll need to be cautious.

There will be people that will give me
Unrelenting stares, judgement aplenty. I suppose they have their
Reasons. Fatui are on the other side of justice.
No matter how far away

My ideals align from them, no one will
Yield their eyes.

My missions here,
It's going to get harder, more
Stressful, a battle against the
Stark amount of citizens.
I have to be more careful
Or I'll be sent to court again,
No way can I let that happen.
Stealth is key.

I need to be far more cautious,
Now that my

Forced upon me identity has been thrown
Out into the open.
Now, I know
The Hydro Archon
And her justice will only harden.
I know that
Now, a mission's success is uncertain.
Everyone is out to get me in the

Nation of Justice. Am I
On my own? Probably.
Will even the

Pesky penguins abandon me? Probably.
Everyone will be against me. I heard the
Outrage amongst the nobodies.
People had their voices heard.
Looks like this is only the begging, of
Every mission collapsing.

Knowing Her Majesty, she does
Not care, she will keep sending me.
Oh, Your Majesty, when
Will you see?

It's going to be more difficult for you to conquer the world.

Ah, but I suppose she will keep going with her ideals. But,
Maybe I'm overthinking

And no one will be sour towards me.

For what it's worth,
After all this
Time, I am quite
Used to judgement. I am
Used to the few and in between
Seeing me as garbage,

Trash, the scum of society.
However many people feel this way,
I have to push their
Stares away. Have to keep going.

It was not my choice to be in this
Sinister organization.

But, I cannot leave,
After all, Her Majesty will kill me. For now,
Don't let those stares get to me. Keep working."

Four days had passed since the hyena dealt with the high heat problem deep down in the in the Elton Trench and the surrounding areas laying beneath. Diplomacy of nothing only lasting a singular day, a rather peculiar order overtook the next forty-eight hours following.

Given the task to exterminate malicious Meka that had overflowing sightings reported, the early adult's stress had eaten the chimera up like a plate of Fontaine Aspic. Removing the issue above the ground and down beneath the deep oceans, everything had been going as expected within the soldier's workdays. But, such task had only taken a turn for the worse during the second day of cleansing duties.

Accused of killing a Meka Garde by the hawk chimera, an immediate court case had been filed against the soldier. Theatrics kicking in as the the generic nobodies made various comments about him, the opera house was a cesspool. Found innocent of all accusations, stress had begun to grip the chimera into a never-ending chokehold.

Today, the stress would begin to hit its peak.

The sound of loud glasses clanging together throughout the military barracks echoed throughout the walls and hallways. As multiple Fatui celebrated an unknown victory, countless cheers drowned out all the other sound throughout the places within Snezhnaya. Cheers only getting louder, the walls shook with a fervor.

The uproarious celebrations were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Hearing people cheering nonstop, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the hyena. What could the other soldiers in the barracks possibly be celebrating? Knowing he had no time to waste, the early adult rose from the uncomfortable bed. There was no time to join, it was time to begin the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the hyena placed his winter jacket over his layered shirts, the chimera could not help but wonder. Did Her Majesty win some sort of important battle recently? But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. It would most certainly be a waste of time asking. He would find out sooner or later, he supposed.

But, as the early adult attempted to snap his buttons shut, a soldier stumbled towards his door. Generic, unmasked man in a diplomat uniform swerving with every step, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. What was another soldier, wasted beyond words doing by his steel walled room? He had no time for the plastered.

"Why aren't you joining us, soldier?" the drunken Fatui asked, laughing. "Come oooon, have some Fire Water with us!"

The early adult held back the urge to drop his jaw down to the frozen floor. How could anyone drink this early in the morning, especially on a workday? Absolutely disgusting, strong alcohol should be forbidden from being consumed before three in the afternoon. Soldier looking ready to hand him an entire stack of drinks, the hyena puffed air from his nostrils. He needed to let this man know getting morning wasted was not happening.

"No, thank you, sir," Siorc responded, voice dry. As he said such, the man let out a childish pouting noise.

"Hmph! Party pooper!" the drunken soldier exclaimed.

Watching as a familiar blond haired Fatui hauled the drunkard away, the soldier let out a sigh. How ridiculous, offering him Fire Water. There was no way he would be able to stomach such a strong beverage. Pushing such thoughts away, the focus switch inside him flipped upward once more. Buttons in the correct holes, the chimera removed the cover off his jewelry and accessory box.

Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching x-shaped ones adorned his hair and ears. Hearing the racket continue as the minutes droned onward, the early adult shook his head. What was so great about alcohol, anyway? Didn't it destroy human's organs rather easily? What was the thrill in ruining one's body with the devil's liquid?

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the celebrations had only gotten louder. Dropping onto his knees, the hyena covered his eardrums with the palms of his hands. Why is everyone being so loud today? Everything was a cacophonous orchestra, shrieking rather than playing real music.

Taking multiple deep breaths, a wave of calmness flowed through the hyena. It was best to tune out the commotion. He had to finish getting ready for the workday at hand. Walking towards the edge of the room, every sound around him had been nothing. Heelless shoes placed over his currently human feet, the chimera headed back towards his uniform drawers.

Biting into his flavorless rations, the soldier stared at the door outside. The celebrations should wait until the evening, or nighttime, for sure. Surely, if Her Majesty knew what was happening, someone would put everyone in line. Glasses adjusted, and buttons secured in their holes, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp around with a militaristic uproar, the chimera took one final deep breath. Knowing he had to look as ready as possible, the work mode switch flipped upward inside him. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, a peculiar shout hit the walls as his subordinate stood by the door.

"You lazy soldiers, get to work!" the Agent Shouted. He then cleared his throats. "Apologies, Soldier." Giving unseen eye contact, he continued. "Diplomatic Soldier Siorc, you must head for the Court of Fontaine underground city and help out the poor to ensure you return to the good graces of the Hydro Archon."

The soldier could feel his heart skip five beats. He has to try to get back into Focalor's good graces? Absolutely impossible. He had already been exposed as a member of the Fatui. Any good graces he could have worked into had been as dead as a ghost on Wuwang Hill. There was no way doing a few favors for the less fortunate would ever be enough.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Don't worry about it. It's already been taken care of."

The hyena flinched. What had been taken care of already? The soldier did not know why, but whatever it was that had been attended to, he could not help but feel it was certainly not a good thing. Removing any emotions within him, the chimera turned his attention towards the Agent's mask. No more dawdling. The workday had to begin now.

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

"Great. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Bag slammed onto his back, the masked agent gripped the soldier's wrist into a tight lock. As the escort to Fontaine began, one thought held the soldier into another chokehold.

Would helping the people underground truly help him get into the good graces of the Hydro Archon?

He did not know.

***

"What is going on here recently?
Hearing a lot of the people
Around Poisson say
They're scared of the

Increasing amounts of energy. This is
Shocking to me. We are a nation that uses power constantly.

How come the people are scared? Even
Aigre, as childish as she is has started noticing. So,
People have been coming to me for all these odd jobs.
People have been coming to Kali for all these odd jobs.
Every day, Kali and I take turns doing those.
Now it is my turn. Today,
I have to go to the Elton Trench and remove some sort of
Noxious energy.
Great. This again. First and foremost,

I might be a 'mermaid' to these people, but that does
Not mean Kali and I should be the ones on the

Forefront of this escapade. But, the
Oceans are important to us.
No doubt about it. So, this morning I
Told Kali, 'Watch Aigre for me,
And make sure she doesn't wander off.' As usual
I get this response. 'Bain, you're
Not her mother.' Kali always says this to me.
Every single time. Yes, Kali,

I know. I am not her mother, but what do you expect me to do?

Aigre is our youngest sister, both physically and
Mentally. I know she is only one year younger than you, but in her mind she's still a

Child, and not the grown-up she grew to be. So, I have to
Observe the motherlike roll, even if you find it annoying.
Now, Aigre tries to tag along after this.
For the hundredth time, she
Unleashes the words, 'I wanna come too!!'
She's always insistent, but I always tell her, 'Aigre, this is a job for the adults.'
Every time, she will fire back with, 'Grown ups get to do all the cool things!'
Don't say that, Aigre, that makes me feel guilty.

I take a deep breath, and I give my

Usual line. 'Yes, that's right. So, when you grow up, you'll get to do all the cool things.'
Now she responds with, 'Got it, I'll grow up fast then for Captain Vert!'
Don't bring your imaginary friends into this, Aigre.
Every single time.
Right, well, I guess there's not much I can do.
She's regressed to her
Terrible twos I mean, terrible teens. Preteens?
Agh, whatever. It's really
Not important. We cannot afford the
Doctors to help her go back to

Normal. But, that is
Our goal, in the long run.
The conversation is now over, I
Head out our door.
It is finally time to get rid of the so called
Noxious energies. I do not truly
Get why it has to be Kali and me, but here goes nothing."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the soldier could feel teeming droplets hit his messy hair. Feeling such, the early adult blinked. Had there been another court case already? But, such thoughts were cut off as he had been dragged down the mountain, like always.

Boat summoned out of nowhere, drips hit the vessel faster with every given second. Placed into the wooden vessel, the hyena gazed at the other vehicles from afar. Was it just him, or did everything else look as dry as the desert? Surely, it had to have just been his imagination.

As the vessel continued stroking forward through the storm, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why was it raining so hard today? The court case he had been thrown into had been a day prior. But, he supposed it was always a busy day for the legal world in the Nation of Justice.

Vehicle of manpower soon docked, the early adult stood to his feet. Singular free hand overhead as he was dragged onto the walkways, the chimera could feel a wave of green flow through him as he gazed at the Agent's hood. How lucky he was, to have full protection from the rain.

Pushed towards the stairwell, a familiar set of words had been tossed the chimera's way. Told he would not be allowed to teleport around Fontaine, as usual, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. He was being informed of this rule yet again? When would the reminder stop being laid out to him? Subordinate soon gone, everything grew silent.

Downpour raining down on him as he ascended the staircase and stepping into the glass box, the soldier prepared himself. Today was going to be a wet day, guaranteed. Preparing himself to be soaked to the bone, the chimera walked towards the Aquabus Station, but as he had done so, a storm was brewing.

Multiple rich people, dressed up to the nines glaring daggers at his uniform, the soldier swore he could hear the crowd whisper to one another that he should have been found guilty. Letting out a gulp, the chimera's eyes darted. He supposed he deserved such judgement. Standing in the line in silence, the Aquabus cruising by on the water, the chimera kept waiting. But, as the vehicle was ready to come, discord swallowed the hyena whole.

"Move!" a rich socialite screamed.

Gloved hands soon on his shoulders, the hyena's body stumbled. Buttocks momentarily becoming one with the ground, the chimera grit his teeth. Did this person have to be so rude? Returning to his feet, irritation soared through him. Knowing he had to move out of the way, the soldier placed himself on the back of the line, for the time being. Everyone else soon seated, the soldier prepared to seat himself.

Rich lady screaming a Fatui was on board, hands had been on the soldier's back for what felt like second time of the day. Crowd ready to make him the next shipwreck, the chimera let out a pained scream. Why couldn't the people just leave him be? Melusine soon shouting to cut it out, there's no need for such actions, hands were soon removed from his backside.

Seating himself in the farthest corner, a stronger wave of irritation flowed through the hyena. Was any of this outrageous behavior necessary? No matter what his position was, and how people saw him, there was no reason to wish to cause bodily harm. But, the chimera stayed silent. There was no way he could say such, or he would be tossed into the waters immediately.

Aeval soon saying everyone stay seated at all the times, the automatic vehicle had soon begun moving forward. Glares never ending as the vessel passed through the West Slopes, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of unease. Why was everyone so aggressive towards him today?

Socialites whispering about him saying a criminal like him should rot in the Fortress of Meropide and the innocent judgement was wrong, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. The Fatui, just how despised were they by the general population of Fontaine? But, perhaps, just maybe, such would wear off when their small minds were to forget him.

Reaching the main city after about an hour, the torrential downpour only continued to ramp up in speed. Generic citizens millions of mora richer than he walking off together with parasols fancier than anything he had ever seen, the soldier placed his hands over his hair once more. It was time to look for the underground city as fast as he could muster.

Heading upon the northern path, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. If he were an underground city, where would it be? Surely, there had to be a stairwell somewhere that would take him to the lowest levels available in the city. Continuing upon the northern path, the hyena kept his eyes peeled like a fruit.

Mecha Gardes patrolling far more than normal as a woman lauded about antiques, the soldier could feel sweat pour down his back. Had security been heightened in the area? If such were the case, he was doomed without a shadow of doubt. Heading down the stairs in the corner of the northeastern most street, the soldier kept searching for the mythical city underground.

Passing by the blacksmith, multiple Meka Gardes kept patrolling around every street the soldier passed by. Seeing such, the early adult tossed himself in the grassy hedges. He needed to stay out of sight, out of mind, or he would be sent back to court, in an instant.

Rival boutique passed by, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Where in the world could the underground city be? Surely, it had to have been somewhere nearby. Fruit stall walked around, and human gardes on duty, the soldier remained on high cautious alert.

Soon reaching the fountain with a globe accessory above it, the hyena could not help but wonder. The underground city, could it be underneath the fountain? Perhaps, just maybe, the secret city of the less fortunate was the press of a button away. Walking towards the object, the soldier studied the device thoroughly.

Not finding any buttons upon the chimera tilted his head. Was there no secret glass box here? He supposed he was wasting his time. It was best to keep looking elsewhere. Heading back towards the stairway, the hyena had begun to retrace his steps. Surely, he had just missed a staircase or two somewhere.

Looping back around the northern city street, the hyena repeated the question in his mind once more. If he were an underground city, where would he be? Surely, it had to have been somewhere he would least expect it. Passing by the same street multiple times, nothing new had been discovered by the soldier.

Dashing off towards the glass lift in the center of the city, the early adult circled around the third story of the court world. Maybe it was best to look around towards the city's exit. Resolute on his decision, the soldier placed himself within the world of the glass box once more.

But, as the hyena moved through the city's edges, nothing of note stuck out to the soldier. Trip to the fourth floor wasted, the soldier dropped himself back down to the second floor. Failure looming deep within him, the soldier kept walking around in a circle. Was the underground city even real? He was starting to believe it was a mere fantasy.

Reaching the path near the hotel, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Underground city, where could it possibly be? He knew he needed to keep looking, no matter what. But, as he passed by the rich boarding establishment, a pesky fly had begun to buzz towards his general direction.

Earl skipping down the path like a schoolgirl who just traded friendship bracelets, the hyena let out a groan. Why was this pesky penguin chimera always around in the same places he was? How aggravating. He was about to hear the same nonsense about coming to his home again. He needed to speed off before he were to spot him. But, it had already been too late, the thorn in his side's eyes soon met his.

Seeing his future husband darting around the city as though he were looking for something, Earl's heart leapt into his legs. Was Siorc lost? Maybe he should help him out to get him to where he should be headed. What a perfect reason to bring him home. He would surely appreciate it, and tell him he'll marry him.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted, waving. "You seem lost! Let me take you home so I can give you directions!"

Earl's slimy gloved hand clamping down on his own palm, the early adult held back the urge to bite. What in the world was Earl doing? Did he have every excuse in the books to try and bring him down to his apartment downstairs? Absolutely ridiculous. There was no need to bring him to his home for directions. Surely, there were paper maps somewhere in the city that'd be more useful than this pest. But, the hyena kept himself quiet. There was no way he could say such a thing. He needed to keep himself quiet.

Boutique getting closer with every step, the soldier turned his head towards the opposite direction. Maybe, Malika would know where the underground city was. He supposed, since he was being dragged to the fashion establishment anyway, asking the forbidden question would not hurt.

Famous clothing establishment as busy as ever, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Spotting a Meka doing all the work around the shop, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Where in the world was Kaiser? Shouldn't he be working? But, he supposed it was no business of his who was employed at Congele Boutique and what their working hours were.

Lower staircase taken, the early adult observed the apartment for a moment. No one except Malika downstairs, the soldier could feel a sigh of relief. There was only one other penguin here? Music to his ears. The less pests around, the better. His ears were free from annoyances, at least for the time being. Earl stepping forward, the usual announcement was ready to burst the glass off the windows.

"I'm home from the Research Institute!" Earl announced, tilting his head. "Huh? Where's Baron and Kaiser?"

"They went to Chenyu Vale to do some international business. They should be back by tomorrow evening," Malika responded. She then turned towards Siorc, smiling. Did Earl bring his boy toy over? Maybe a little teasing wouldn't hurt. "You brought your boy toy over today?" She let out a silly giggle. "I'll make an extra fancy supper for two lovebirds."

A wave of disgust flowed through the hyena. How dare Malika say such a thing. He would never, no matter what, not in a million years, for any reason, be Earl's partner. Absolutely not, what a horrific thing to even suggest. Him, date a penguin? Disgusting. The sheer thought of such gave him boiling blood. Pushing such thoughts away, the chimera returned to the mission at hand. Finding the underground city, that was the only thing that was important. Taking a quick deep breath, the soldier released the forbidden words.

"No, ma'am, I am not his boy toy," the hyena responded, rolling his eyes to the ceiling. "I need to locate the underground city."

Hearing the young man's words, Malika could feel a light bulb pop up from above her head. He was heading for the sewers? What a perfect opportunity to guide him there. The court case had to made his presence a sour sight within the city. Maybe it would be a good idea to have him help out the poor.

"Are you talking about Fleuve Cendre, darling?" Malika asked. "I'll take you there." Stepping in front of him, she extended her hand. "You should lend the people there a hand. They've been struggling a lot lately."

Malika leading the way, the soldier stayed behind her in silence. Hearing her comment about the people underground struggling lately, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Her Majesty, did she want him to take advantage of the less fortunate by pretending to lend them a hand? How awful of her, if such were the case.

Soon descending a large staircase within the city, the hyena could not help but think. What could possibly await him down in the lowest points of the city? Would he see people playing with rats? But, the chimera pushed such thoughts away. There was no need to anticipate such. Whatever he were to witness down below, his judgement had to remain at the door.

Taken down a long staircase, two green doors awaited the fashionable penguin and he. Soon finding himself near a long ladder beside a long metallic passageway reaching a deep underground world, the hyena prepared himself for the worst. A new world was about to await him at any given moment.

Dropping down the gigantic ladder, the soldier peered down beneath him as Malika had gotten further down below. Was it just his imagination, or was he smelling rust? But, the hyena kept climbing. There was absolutely no time to think about such things. He had to keep focus on climbing.

Second ladder soon upon him, the early adult could not help but hear the sound of flowing water. Hearing such, the hyena blinked. Just how far underground was he? Could he have been underneath the fountain in the city after all? Pushing such thoughts away, the hyena kept focusing on his descent. Why did it matter where the city was? He needed to stop thinking outrageous conclusions.

Eventually reaching the bottom after twenty minutes of climbing, the soldier observed the area around him. Brown underground sewer city with a vile stench, the early adult attempted to plug his nose. Voices echoing off the metallic walls, the hyena's ears had begun to rung. Did a loud world await him? But, he knew he had to bear with it no matter what.

Poorly dressed citizens cheering as Malika stepped towards the main hub of the underground world, the soldier swore everyone had begun to run towards her. Seeing this, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. Did she come down here often? He could not help but feel she was a regular down here. But, his thoughts were soon interrupted by an elderly voice.

"Roi, it's so good to see you again!" the elderly man exclaimed. But, a very loud forced cough drowned out his words.

"Oh, dear, my apologies, allergies!" Malika shouted. "Don't you remember? Roi's on a journey. It's me, Malika!"

Hearing Malika's sudden forced and loud cough, the hyena lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. Why was she telling a story about some person who went on a journey? But, a switch flipped on inside his brain. Oh, he sees now. What a clever excuse for those who did not understand, or chose to be backwards in their thinking. But, the chimera kept such thoughts to himself.

"Terribly sorry, Malika!" the elderly man responded. "We wish Roi well on his journey!" But, Malika soon talked over him.

"Anyway!" Malika exclaimed, talking over the elderly man with all her might. "I brought a new helper with me today!"

Malika soon pointing at him with a fury, multiple people crowded around the hyena like he was a celebrity taking autographs. Many young adults and children cutting him off in a large circle looking ready to pounce on him like food scraps, the chimera's heart skipped two beats. Was he about to become a living notice board? He needed to prepare himself for such at any given moment.

People chattering one after another about Malika bringing a new helper and how they needed a ton of materials, the soldier's knees buckled. A ton of materials? Just how many would he need to gather? Another person stating they are missing medical supplies, the chimera's eyes had begun to twitch. So many requests, how was he supposed to fulfill all of them? He was only one partially human person.

Even more people crowding around him talking aloud about whatever they needed, the soldier could feel himself grow down to the size of a Cicin. Too many people at once were talking. He needed space. He was inside a box, cramped into the thin corridors. But, he knew, no matter how many people needed something, he had to do everything asked of him. His thoughts, however, were cut off by an even louder scream.

"Settle down, everyone!" Malika exclaimed, hand out in front of her. "One at a time!"

Multiple people clearing out one after another, the soldier's jaw dropped open. Was that all it took? The voice of a regular was the most powerful tool of all time. Everyone clearing out except for a muscular man with armor on his shoulder, a peculiar order had come his way.

Man stating there had been influx of floating machines spotted around the Belleau region, the tilted his head. What did any of this have to do with helping the less fortunate? But, he knew he had no choice but to hear him out. Person requesting he gather machine parts from such objects, confusion looped on repeat.

Stranger handing him a peculiar looking claymore that could extend in length with the press of a button, the soldier let out a sigh. Was this really the mission he should be taking? The requester did not look like he was pinching for Mora whatsoever. But, he supposed, if he wished to get back on the good graces of the Hydro Archon, helping anyone who asked was the way to go.

Malika stating she would woman the fort for now, the early adult dashed off towards the ladder once more. Returning back to the surface world, the hyena walked off towards the Aquabus Station after what felt like the one-hundred-thousandth time in the past six weeks. Rain slowing down as he seated himself on the ride of automatic proportions, a request had come the Melusine's way.

Melusine agreeing to have the Aquabus stop at the Poisson Tunnel, the soldier blinked. The tour guide was willing to accept his request? How strange. But, he supposed not every single person or being held the same opinions about the Fatui. Vehicle soon departing, the hyena kept himself as still as possible.

As the tour bus cruised across the waters, the hyena could not help but wonder. The floating machines, where could they have possibly come from? Were they just the orb monsters from Elynas again? Whatever they could have been, he needed to get rid of them without a second thought.

Reaching the Poisson Tunnel, the early adult disembarked from the vehicle. Wind glider deployed from behind his satchel, a sight to behold overtook the chimera's heterochromatic field of damaged vision. Floating machines beaming a peculiar ray of light in every corner of the sky, the soldier rolled up his sleeves. It was time to get to the extermination of a life time.

Running off towards the southernmost edge of the area, a group of three machines floating above the beaches surrounded by yellow and purple shards, the early adult cracked his knuckles. Getting rid of few unwanted obstacle? The cake was slicing itself into pieces.

Taking note the first machine was surrounded by a purple aura, the early adult scooped up the light yellow block. Mineral floating around him, the chimera unsheathed the peculiar claymore. Block slamming down on the machine almost immediately, the hyena let out a battle cry as his blade did the talking.

But, as his slashes about continued, a layer soon surrounded the foreign object. Claymore as thin as a sheet of paper, the hyena grit his teeth. It was already getting into a defensive state? How ridiculous. He needed to carve through the armor right now. Second block of yellow energy grabbed, the early adult angled the greatsword towards the left.

Hearing the armor crack a smidgeon, the hyena kept the momentum going. Managing to get ten slashes in, the chimera let out another battle cry. Surely, he was close to getting rid of the obstacle in front of him. But, the easy switch soon flipped back into hard mode. Metallic box closing in, the defenses returned.

Grabbing the yellow energy block on repeat, the early adult's eyebrows twitched as the cycle kept looping back and forth. Battle feeling like it was never going to end, the soldier grit his teeth. Where had such line of defenses come from? Someone had to have tampered with the machine from the outside.

Hearing a crack after what felt like one-hundred greatsword strikes, the early adult aimed for the core. Object sliced up like fruit on a cutting board, the early adult prepared to move onwards towards the second mechanical object within the crowd of three. Object glowing yellow, the purple block had been grabbed ahold of.

Quick work made of the second mechanical enemy, the chimera held back the urge to pant. Had defeating the first machine weakened the other two? He supposed such could have been the case. Third and final machine floating higher off the air, the soldier studied his greatsword, for a moment.

Discovering a button in the center of the blade's hilt, the soldier pressed down on the clicker in a matter of moments. Metallic blade extending towards the sky, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. The blade could really grow in length with the press of a button? Just what kind of greatsword was this? It had to have been from some other world.

Third machine cut to ribbons, a sea of gears had begun to drop on the sand like rainfall. Commodities scooped up one after another, the early adult pocketed the objects. Gears clanging around in the satchel as he moved forward, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. What a waste of bag space. But, he knew he had no choice but to collect the gears. His orders, no matter who were to give them to him, were absolute.

As the hyena had begun to walk upon the northern path, the chimera gazed at the collection of enemies on the skylines. Where could this machine outbreak have possibly come from? The soldier did not know, but he knew he had to vanquish them for the client, for the time being.

Eventually reaching a pathway north near the mountainsides, the early adult turned his attention towards the skies. Mechanical enemies beaming their lights of doom, the hyena readied himself. Surely, his blade would be able to extend far enough to reach it. Preparing himself, the button was clicked.

Metallic greatsword gaining meters in height, the soldier's feet had begun to wobble. Tall objects, what a world. Metallic edges doing their duty, the early adult swore he could see sparks begin to fly. Continuing the fight, for the moment, one casualty had been added to the pile.

Group of two enemies floating closer down towards the ground, the soldier braced himself for impact. Beams of electrical energy about to come his way, the early adult jumped four steps back. The machines had powers? He needed to be cautious. Defenses ready, the hyena jumped towards the left as the attacks continued.

Evasion was dead in the water. Hearing a buzzing noise from behind him, the soldier could feel a tingle travel down his back. Static clinging to his uniform, the early adult could feel his energy break away. The machines could move around at will? He needed to try harder to dodge. Attempting to jump towards the right, the soldier grabbed an energy block.

But, such attempts at dodges were futile. Electricity tickling him fancy with every attempt to jump, the chimera was a zapper magnet. Attempting to shake off the static with any energy that remained, the crawled off towards the side like a crab on the beach. Breaking free after what felt like forty-five minutes of struggling, the tides reversed.

Machines removed from the equation after thirty blows, the hyena broke out into a sweat. Who, in all of Teyvat, had programmed these machines? Whoever had done so, they had to have been asking for trouble of all kinds. Taking a deep breath, the hyena observed the area around him, for a moment.

Enemies of many mechanical marvels making themselves home up on the mountaintops, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. The mountains, of all places. He was in for a difficult ride. Dashing off towards the cliffs, the chimera prepared himself for action. But, as he had reached the peak, difficulties had begun to arise from the ashes.

Floating devices moving around at a rapid pace along the base of the mountains, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Tiny bug like accessories swarming around them, the soldier's knees buckled. How was he supposed to aim at multiple enemies at once from high off the ground? Pondering for a moment, ideas flowed through like a river.

Figuring plunging down from the mountaintops was the first step, the early adult's weapon and he had begun to ride the wind. Bug swarm sparking high and dry, the soldier ascended back towards the top of the mountain. Host still alive and well, the chimera clutched the claymore as tight as his fingers would allow.

Dropping downward in a rapid manner, a loud clang let its defiance become known. Hearing such, the soldier could feel his confidence drop like Cicins. The shields were already up? He stood no chance, guaranteed. Multiple plunges taking the stage, no amount of points had been in the chimera's favor for minutes on end.

Sky attacks doing nothing as well, the early adult let out a grunt. Defenses were a horrific cocoon of power. Offenses dead in the water, the soldier pondered for a moment. How would he be able to defeat such creature? Perhaps, knocking it back was the trick. Resolute on his decision, the chimera was ready.

Dropping down the mountain as the floating machine moved towards the ground, the soldier's feet were armed and ready, lunging forward towards a tree, the mechanical enemy had become one with the stump. Hearing the sound of metal bending, the kickbacks continued.

Spotting metallic acorns upon the ground as multiple enemies buzzed around like bugs, the chimera stared at the objects below him. Would tossing such projectiles end the battle quicker? He knew it was worth a try to toss them around. Equipment at the ready, the soldier bent his arm backwards.

Acorn barrage throwing everything for a loop, a sea of gears dropped down from the mountaintops. Seeing such, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes. A simple object was enough to turn the tables? Perhaps, just maybe, he should make use of objects in the wilderness more often. But, everything had begun to crumble as the next location revealed itself.

Creatures making themselves at home upon the Aquabus railings, the acorns and the creature's mechanical bodies soon met. Letting these creatures interfere with transportation? Not a chance. He could not allow for such to happen for any reason. Corned into an inoperable state, the mountainside slaying continued for hours on end.

Although, such mountain world had come to an end in a matter of moments. Inorganic life forms speeding off upon the air, the soldier was off to the races. Enemies getting swifter as he had continued to run, the soldier let out a scream. How were these mechanical monsters so fast? He needed to catch up before it was too late.

Mechanical monsters speeding through the mountaintops, the chase continued. But, the soldier swore he saw the same mountain three times in a row. Looping back around, the hyena let out a pant. Didn't these inorganic creatures have a limit to their powers? Surely, there had to have been some sort of limit on their life juices.

Chase looping him back around to the same mountain once more, the early adult let out a growl. What was he, in some sort of team of mystery solvers with a brown talking dog that talked with the excessive use of the letter r? Absolutely ridiculous, he had to end the chase now. Going onto the peak, the early adult plunged downward.

Enemy knocked into oblivion, frustration ate the hyena up like a plate of fish and chips. Who programmed these machines? Their movements were absolutely ridiculous. Whoever had been in charge of these, they had to learn how to handle their goods better in the future. Taking a long deep breath, the soldier scouted the area, for a moment.

Spotting a machine floating towards the oceans, the early adult let out a gulp. If such thing were to get down into the ocean, it would cause great harm down in the trenches once more. He needed to put a stop to it, immediately. But, as he reached the sea bed, the enemy dove down like a dolphin returning from gathering air.

Knowing that if he did not hurry, electricity would turn the oceans into the next Inazuma, the early adult reached for his diving equipment at lightning speed. Fat uniform of blubber engulfing him, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Spark popping, the chimera dropped down towards the trenches beneath him.

Spotting five of the mechanical enemies floating upon the water, the soldier could feel fear bubble inside him. Any minute now, and sparks would fly. He had to get rid of the problem immediately, or every single living creature in the world under water would suffer painful electrocutions.

Cruising towards the first destroyer of world's a particular face stuck out of the soldier. Spiky pink haired young woman with a sea lion body removing peculiar hazards from the ocean floor, the soldier tuned the person out. Was Bain doing some sort of job? He needed to leave her be, if such were the case. But something of peculiar note caught the chimera's attention.

Seeing Bain all by herself, an array of questions flowed through the soldier. Where were Kali and Aigre? Why weren't they helping her out? How could they leave her alone to face the problem by herself? Thoughts continuing to buzz through him, the soldier swore he could feel shoulders brush against his. Hearing someone make a hissing noise, the chimera had his swim suit thrust him four paces away. Had he bumped into the only sea lion sister around? He needed to apologize, if so.

"Ah, sorry! I didn't see you there!" Bain exclaimed, but her eyes soon wandered. Seeing the young man who had been dragged down into Aigre's constant shenanigans, she soon clapped her flippers together. "I apologize for getting you caught up in Aigre's pirate shenanigans! I should have tried harder to get her to stop!"

But, the apology had fallen on deaf ears. Bain all alone, the early adult placed his hands in front of him. Writing out the inquiry regarding where Kali and Aigre were on the water, the soldier gazed into Bain's eyes. Surely, they had to be around somewhere. Dealing with hazards by herself had to have been a risk that was avoidable.

Watching as, what was his name again, Skirk, write a question on the water about her sister's whereabouts, Bain shook her head. Why was he asking about them? How odd. There was no reason to inquire about such. But, she supposed he was just too curious for his own good.

"Kali? She's with Aigre while I'm working," Bain responded. "Why are you asking?"

Hearing a slight hint of irritation in Bain's voice, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. Had he gotten too nosy? Maybe he had asked a question that dove in too far. Knowing it was best to drop the subject, the early adult had the automatic diving suit thrust him towards the left. Aquatic blade ready, the soldier prepared himself.

Aquatic blade charging at the first machine of the five, the soldier fired off the unlimited bladeworks. Machine not budging for minutes on end, the hyena kept the momentum going. Although, such was a continued failure. Machine not budging, even a centimeter, the fight remained the same.

Switching off towards the armored ability, the soldier held his left hand out, for a moment. Projectiles coming his way, the hyena bounced them back towards the enemy as though he were using his Claymore. Defenses down and out after six attempts, one final round of the aquatic blade finished the job.

First of five obstacles taken out of the equation, the chimera's diving suit continued to move upon autopilot. Battles beginning to gear up some struggle, the chimera could feel his will begin to fade. Had the machines gotten sturdier? If such were the case he needed to find energy blocks as soon as possible.

Blocks of energy soon in his clutches, the early adult persevered. Armor cracking as the precision strike took the stage, the hyena rode the current. He had to clear out the rest of the enemies quickly, or electrocuted waters would plague the Elton Trench for all of Inazuma's eternity. Such could not happen, no matter what.

Four of five obstacles soon taken out of the equation, the hyena thrusted further north. Aquatic blade ready for action, the soldier pressed the button at rapid fire. But as the fight kicked up speed, vines added themselves to the mix. Machine a chrysalis amongst the ocean, the chimera flinched.

Attempting with all his might to remove the encasing, the chimera's finger had begun to get trigger happy. Vines not budging for minutes on end, the soldier could feel his chest turn to stone. Were the blade spots moving? Attempting once more to cut the rope, the glowing spot continued to move.

Stubborn weeds remaining intact, the early adult kept cutting. Regeneration remaining supreme, the world remained stuck. Why were the vines so quick to regenerate? How was this even possible? Attempts all going to waste, stress hugged the soldier from behind. Readying to wave the white flag, nature reigned supreme.

Bain swimming towards him in a rapid manner, a scythe soon appeared in her flippers. Flames soon surrounding her weapon, the soldier closed his eyes. The fire was out of sight, out of mind. Opening his eyes after a few seconds, vines had begun to burn away. Sea lion letting out a shout, the soldier turned towards her.

"I weakened them for you!" Bain shouted. Her scythe continued to swing forward. "Strike now!"

Opening created, the soldier slashed with a fury. Machine dropping from the encasing, the scythe and aquatic weapon broke through. Flames bringing down the final blow, gears floated upon the oceans. Commodities received, the soldier returned to the surface. Turning his head towards the sky, the soldier studied it for a moment.

Sky a dark shade of blue, the early adult gulped. Had it already been evening? He had to return to the underground city as soon as possible. Dashing off towards the Poisson Tunnel once more, the hyena ascended upon the aquatic railways. Aquabus nowhere to be seen, the soldier let out a tired sigh. He supposed, he was going to have to walk back. Teleporting was forbidden.

Reaching the underground city after three hours of walking, the early adult searched to and fro for the person who requested the robotic gears. Eventually coming across him near a passageway, the chimera handed off every single piece of metallic waste to the client. Gratitude coming his way, the early adult readied to exit for the evening. But, such plan for rest was cancelled before it could even begin. Malika heading towards him, a new demand had come his way.

"The youngsters seem hungry, why not make them supper, darling?" Malika asked, portable stove in her hands. "I have to head off to Mount Esus to meet up with a stubborn client." A warm smile had appeared on her face. "For the elderly, just give them gelato." Voice getting further away, she relayed one last set of words. "Feel free to use our guestroom in the boutique after you're done cooking. Earl will let you in."

Portable stove in his fingertips, the soldier's jaw practically dropped open. He had to cook now? Why couldn't Malika have done it before she left? How incredibly annoying. Every single penguin chimera was a thorn in his side. Removing the cover off the stovetop, a flock of children flew the coop.

Multiple generic children swarming around the stove next to a tall, young man with black hair tied back into a stringy ponytail, red-brown eyes, red shirt full of holes and hawk wings behind his back, the chimera let out a groan. He had been in the presence of an avian chimera. It was all over. Kids looks ready to voice their demands, the early adult turned towards them.

"We want fish steak!!" one kid demanded.

"The super duper expensive kind!" another kid demanded.

"And make sure you get the good kind!" the bird man chimed in, poking his finger through his ear. "The thick, juicy tenderloins!"

Demands coming his way, the early adult's eyes fluttered. Fish steak, this late into the evening? Surely, this group was joking. Kids soon chanting they want fish steak, give them fish steak, the hyena sighed. He supposed he would go to the general store and buy all the ingredients possible for such dish.

Returning to the surface world for a moment, the soldier strolled towards the general store. A double dozen lumps of raw fish meat and other ingredients for fish steak sold conveniently, the soldier's wallet had been fried in a matter of moments. Dropping back down to the world underground after fifteen minutes, the stove was the hyena's only friend.

Slabs of fish steak dropped on the portable stove, various cooking utensils had been handed off to the soldier. Multiple kids demanding their steaks to be extra juicy, the early adult painted on the thick layers like it was an art project. Seasoning sprinkled on one after another, the soldier rose the flame. Meals finished, the children gathered around. But, demands had come his way again.

"Juicier!" one kid shouted.

"I want mine blacker!" another kid shouted.

Letting out a sigh, the hyena had begun to redo the fish steaks. Children one after another continuing to demand the strips of meat be juicier, spicier, more crispy, the chimera kept the revisions going. Why was everyone being so demanding? Any more times, and he would be out of slices to cook. But, one demand stuck out amongst the rest.

"No, no, no, my steak has to be black!" the bird man exclaimed in a demanding tone. "Black, like my soul." He pointed at his ponytail. "Cook it again!"

The soldier's eyebrows twitched. He had to redo yet another steak? Cook it pitch black? What a ridiculous request. If he were to cook it until it was black, there would be no steak left. But, he knew he had to give the person what he demanded. Redoing the meat one final time, fish steak as black as a raven on the night sky sizzled on the grill. Bird man looking ready to grab everything, grating words hit the walls.

"See? Now, this is the perfect steak!" the bird man exclaimed.

Kids one after another attempting to grab the streaks right off the piping hot grill, alarm bells rang in the soldier's head. Had any of these children been taught stove and oven safety? Placing his hand in front of him, such action was halted. There was no way he could allow for such unsafe action to take shape.

Everyone's dinners handed off to them in succession, the soldier packed up the portable stove. Liquid foods made for all the poor elderly people, the early adult let out a yawn. At any moment, he could feel himself ready to burn out like a candle. Exiting back up towards the surface world, the early adult headed for the boutique.

Heading down the boutique stairs, only Earl had been inside the apartment downstairs. Pesky penguin informing him his sister said he could rest up in the boutique until that hooded man were to come for him, the soldier headed for the guestroom. Was his mission going to continue into tomorrow? If such were the case, he needed to prepare himself. Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the chimera slumped into the temporary bed, sleep ready to take him away, in an instant, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

Demanding people are tiring.

***

"All of these missions in the underground city are stressful, to say the least.
Now, I have to assist multiple people.
Obviously, I have to do as I am
Told. Or, Her Majesty will kill me.
How will any of this help me get back into the good graces of Focalors?
Every one of these deeds, they won't change how
Relentless the legal world is in Fontaine.

Doubt this will do much of
Anything. No, I am confident.
Yes, these deeds, they will do absolutely nothing.

Of course I know that.
For everyone knows now that I am a member of the Fatui. A

Diplomatic Soldier that no one wants to see.
Everyone despises my presence,
My occupation, everything.
A storm is brewing in Fontaine.
Nothing I will do will undo my exposed identity. Nothing. I
Don't know what's going to happen, but
So much is out the window now. Your Majesty, cease. Reversal isn't happening."

Upon waking up the next morning, the hyena's heart pounded hard and fast in his chest. Feeling himself about to fade away as his chest kept on thumping, Siorc had begun to perform his breathing exercises. Heartbeat slowing down ever so slightly, the early adult rose from the temporary bed.

Room spinning as he headed for the kitchen, the early adult took a second deep breath. Earl soon handing a letter off to him, the early adult slapped his cheeks. Now was not the time to allow dizziness into his life. Adjusting his glasses, the chimera read the slip of paper carefully.

"You are to continue working. You are not dismissed," the anonymous note said.

Finishing the letter of many intricacies, the early adult let out a sigh. Why couldn't the Agent, or whoever wrote this letter write more than a singular sentence? But, he supposed vagueness was the Fatui style. Knowing another difficult day awaited him, the hyena continued to perform his breathing exercises. He could not allow for weakness to overtake him today.

Pastry filled to the brim with high sugary contents, a sugar spark popped off in the soldier's brain. Energy kicking off into overdrive, the soldier cracked his knuckles. It was time to get back to work. Malika soon guiding him back towards the underground city, an immediate array of requests had come the soldier's way. Generic woman with a ponytail and tattered clothes coming his way, the first demand bore fruit.

"Could you go down to the Research Institute of Natural Philosophy and gather this list of books for me?" the young woman asked.

Hearing such a request, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He was being requested to steal books from a research facility? Absolutely not. There was no way he would do such a thing. Take tomes that did not belong to him? No way. Shaking his head, he gave the woman a sharp look.

"Please, sir!" the young woman begged. "The children need education!"

Letting out a sigh, the early adult nodded. He supposed it would be impossible to refuse such a request. Second person soon asking the hyena to head for the Beryl Region and area north of the court to grab crates of Fonta by Airtime Roger, the hyena's lip quivered. Why couldn't the person requesting do it themselves?

Generic nobody whining he had a fear of heights, the soldier accepted the request. But, such had not been the end of the demands from the people around him. Young lady requesting he gather metallic conches for her from Merusea Village, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. What a ridiculous set of orders. How would any of this assist the less fortunate?

Exiting the underground city, the soldier prepared himself for the long day ahead. Ascending the staircase, the soldier took a long deep breath. He was only gathering items people requested. Surely, today would go far more smooth than yesterday. Walking off towards the glass lift, the chimera headed for the highest possible story within the city.

Reaching the fourth and highest possible floor, the hyena turned his head towards the right and left. Melusine guards patrolling, the early adult remained on high alert. If any of the employed security were to see him, he would tossed down into prison immediately. Attempting to avoid their gazes, the chimera tiptoed towards the northern exit of the area.

Reaching the northern most exit, the soldier jumped off the ledge of the area. Wind glider soon deployed, the soldier prepared himself. Salacia Plain, he had to head for the beaches. Knowing that the hawk and falcon chimera could have been there doing bounties, the early adult steeled himself. He needed to careful, no matter what.

Not a single soul a part from meka monsters around in the northern court area, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief. Was he the only one here? Such was a miracle to be had, for sure, if such were truly the case. Stepping towards the shoreline, the young soldier removed his diving equipment from the satchel.

Suit soon swallowing him whole, the early adult prepared himself. The Research Institute of Natural Philosophy. It was time to commit grand theft book. Mind and diving suit soon syncing up with one another, the hyena jumped downward into the seabed beneath him. But, immediately upon entry, a challenger awaited.

Underwater penguin crew already near the plains, the soldier let out a gulp. Last time he had been down here four days prior, the duo informed him the peace treaty was over. Any moment now, and they would bring violence to his partially human person. He needed to get away and head for the research institute as soon as possible.

It was too late, he had already been spotted.

Spotting Ritchie Ritch underwater once again, Vidame could feel her blood boil. Hadn't they told this guy it was all over now? Their peace treaty was done. They had heard from some anonymous source, this individual was not only rich, but one of those Fatui people. How dare he come back down here. I was time to teach him a violent lesson.

Rich Fatui dude coming back down to the Salacia Plains despite their previous warnings, Domini sharpened his flippers. Did this person seriously think he was welcome down here? He had heard from a diver the other day some guy was put on trial and exposed to everyone as a Fatui. This had to be the guy, no doubt about it.

It was time to give his oxygen tank a little holey greeting.

"Great! Not only are you rich, you're an evil Fatui, too!" Vidame shouted. "You're getting what's coming to you!"

Vidame and Domini sharpening their claws, the early adult attempted with all his might to have his diving suit swim faster than the penguins were able to keep up. But such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Penguin talons sinking down into his oxygen tank, the early adult let out a pained gasp. What in the world were these fiends doing? Claws continuing to slash forward, the soldier could feel doom loom over him with every given second. Soon, his lungs would would be one-hundred-percent water, guaranteed.

"I should have known you were up to no good!" Domini shouted, growling. "Ritchie Rich, you deserve whatever's about to happen to you!"

Penguins continuing their rampage, the early adult let out a shout. The underwater penguin duo, why were they doing this? Any second now, and his oxygen tank would burst. His life, was it about to come to an end? Feeling a shout on his throat, the hyena held back the urge to release his thoughts. It's not like he wanted to be a member of the Fatui, anyway. But, the soldier saved his strength. Any second now, and he would lose all his breath. But, in a matter of moments, the onslaught ceased.

"Domini, fuggeddabout it," Vidame suddenly said.

"Forget about it?! Are you crazy, Vidame?!" Domini screamed at the top of his gills. "This loser is a Fatui! He needs to be taught a lesson!"

Seeing the look of panic on the rich Fatui's face, Vidame let out a sigh. While she despised this man with all the fire in her soul, killing him wasn't the right course of action. What was she thinking, going after his oxygen tank? She should have attempted to harm his reputation instead. What a rash and hasty move, she wasn't using her brain at all. She should not have let her visceral take over.

"Whatever, so he's a Fatui, whoop-de-doo," Vidame responded, sarcasm evident in her voice. "I said, fuggeddabout it. Why kill him now when we can possibly ruin his reputation later?" A grunt had soon come her way.

"Archons and dragon sovereigns, fine!" Domini shouted. He then pointed his flipper at the evil Fatui. "Go do your stupid job, or whatever! But, do anything evil, and I will break your oxygen tank next time!"

Words sounding like a promise, the early adult shook with a fervor. Next time, he encountered these penguins, he would be dead on the ocean floor, guaranteed. Party of two swimming off, the soldier had his swim suit push him off towards the west. But, as the soldier approached the hold leading to the research institute, his heart skipped more than seven beats.

Eventually calming down, the early adult dropped downward towards the hidden research facility tucked deep beneath the waters of Fontaine. Soon reaching a large room with bookshelves aplenty, the soldier read off the list of tomes to collect. Counting a total of twenty, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. This was a few books too many, for sure.

Reading the names on the list one after another, the early adult could feel a wave of disbelief flow through him. Why had most of the tomes listed on the paper sound like fantasy novels rather than learning material? The young woman who requested these, was she just making him grab fiction she wanted him to nab from an abandoned area? Ridiculous.

Removing his thoughts, for a moment, the hyena slipped his hands through the bookshelf. First book entitled The Records of Mary-Anne, the early adult tilted his head. Who? Holding the tome of unknown knowledge, the chimera's fingers kept cruising through the spines around him. Second book grabbed entitled, the story of the Sea Horse, the soldier was beside himself. What would these books teach anyone?

Moving onward towards the second shelf, another ridiculous titled book the Tale of the Princess was grabbed out of its rotting away home. Another tall tale story? None of these had any educational value, for sure. He had to have been duped by this person, no questions asked. Fourth book dubbed, The Guide to Energy, the soldier squirmed.

Grabbing the fifth book entitled, Literacy 101, the early adult kept cruising through the shelf. Volumes two, three, four, five and six all grabbed, as well, the soldier broke into a sweat. These books were far too advanced for children. His client had used such story as a cover up, without question.

Walking towards the next shelf, the next book upon the list, Mathematics Made Easy, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. How in the world did a book like this get down into an abandoned research facility? Someone else had to have been here in the past and filled up the shells with such things. Second volume of such fundamental teachings obtained, the next order of business pulled the trigger.

Tome unlucky number thirteen telling the story about the blonde haired princess from another world, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. List informing him to grab volumes two and three as well, the chimera's legs shook. This person had no intention at all of teaching the children. Personal interests spoke louder than words.

Obtaining the next set of three books, the soldier turned his head off towards the opposite direction. Whatever the titles had said, he had no interest in looking further. He knew, if he were to read it, not a single educational word would be anywhere on the title.

Final set of books soon collected, the early adult pocketed the tomes of barely any educational value. Everything dropped into the satchel, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. Was taking these stories even worth it? There had to have been nothing of value presented within any of them.

Returning to the surface world, the early adult removed his diving equipment from around him. But, as he had done such, a strong pulse shot through his head. Heart beating like a mallet on wood, the soldier swore the ocean was spinning around him. Taking a moment to breathe, the hyena kept his breaths going. There was no way he could allow weakness to win now. He had work to do. Pulse crumbling into nothing, the early adult headed back towards the capital city.

Heading for the Aquabus Station, the soldier stared off into space as the vehicle automatically cruised forward towards the Poisson Tunnel. Gazing at the oceans around him from afar, the soldier could not help but wonder. Vidame and Domini, what had he done to them that made them despise him so much? But, he supposed, being a member of the Fatui, he as unwanted by the rest of the world.

Reaching Poisson Tunnel shortly after, the soldier jumped off the ledge once more. Dashing off towards the beaches on the southernmost point within the Belleau Region, the early adult hopped across the waters. Trying to remain on the shallow ledges as much as possible, the Beryl Region was soon upon him.

Coming across an Airtime Roger beside the mountainsides in the southern areas of Elynas, the early adult took another deep breath. Right, he had to gather the large crates of Fonta. Stepping foot inside the vehicle of air travel, the hyena gazed at the skies around him. Balloon object getting higher with every second, the ground was a bug.

Balloon only getting higher as the seconds plowed through, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Keeping himself on the look out for any wooden crates, the air roger kept on going. Vessel cruising through the world of blue above him, the hyena closed his eyes. He was one with the wind, at the top of the world.

Airtime Roger soon coming to a screeching halt, the early adult opened his eyes. Vessel stopping by an aquatic platform, the chimera let out a supply. Did he need to gather another energy source? Rolling up his sleeves, the early adult glided off towards the platforms. Slimes making their presence known, the soldier prepared himself for action.

Tossing down a flower fiend, Dendro and Electro shook hands with one another. Energy block gathered, the vessel had begun its ascent towards the clouds once more. Balloon only going higher, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just how high could something go before touching the sun? Surely, there had to be a limit how high something could travel.

Heading northeast for minutes on end, the ride soon halted once more. Slimes looking ready to become passenger number two, another flower fiend had been tossed their way. Enemies taken care of with a snap of his fingers, the energy block had been renewed once more.

Ride swerving a little, the early adult could feel his heart sink into his stomach. Had someone been trying to shoot the Air Roger down? But, such had been far from the truth. Vehicle accidentally hitting multiple rocks as it came downward, the early adult let out a sigh. Even automatic devices were weak to rocks. A shame to be had, for sure.

Finding a large crate filled to the brim with glass bottles of soda, the early adult lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. Was he requested to fetch a sugary drink? But, he supposed he should hold his judgement. Maybe such was the only thing the man could afford.

Satchel as hard as a rock, the early adult grunted. Why in the world was his bag so heavy now? His back would burst any second. Returning to the Court City once more, the hyena's heart had begun to beat harder and faster once more. Everything was a boulder. But, the chimera knew he had to bear with such. His job was far from over.

Locating the second Airtime Roger north of the Court of Fontaine, the early adult seated himself within the device. Balloon of many technological marvels heading upward, a wave of fascination flowed through him. Was the vehicle completely unaffected by his weight? Amazing. Technology was incredible.

Vehicle continuing upon the airstream, the hyena engulfed the scenery around him. While nature and he were still on a break, he could not help but admire the trees around him. Spotting a flower bed with lilacs galore, the soldier hid the tiniest of smiles. What a beautiful, wonderful world.

Airtime Roger stopping beside an old man's house, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Was this the place he had to grab the next crate from? Only spotting wooden boxes that were empty, the hyena shook his head. Surely, the automatic gears turning the balloon had to have made some sort of mistake. He needed to repilot and keep going right away. As he attempted to do so, however, shouts had come his way.

"You kids and your dang machines!" an old man shouted, fist looking ready to punch a cloud. "You scared the dogs with that fancy little gadget!" Pointing at an empty dog house, his cranky screams dialed themselves to eleven. "Go find them, youngster!"

Knowing he had no choice but to gather up the dogs, the soldier released himself from the airtime roger. Pampered looking canines running off the property as if a lion had been chasing them, the hyena's legs had erupted into a speedy sprint. Chest stinging as he ran faster, the hyena punched his sternum.

Dogs all gathered up after ten minutes of chasing, an apology had been delivered to the elderly man. Returning to the Airtime Roger, the balloon of many technological marvels returned itself to the skies above him. Continuously heading upon the northern pathway, the destination had soon been reached.

Crates of Fonta gathered once more, the early adult winced. How could a double dozen of glass bottles weigh more than an underweight humanoid person like himself? But, the soldier pushed such thought into the ocean. There was no way it was heavier than he was. He was exaggerating, surely.

Final order of business being Merusea Village once more, the chimera headed for the Aquabus after what felt like the one-millionth time. Docked in Romaritime Harbor once again, the soldier descended towards the bottom floor of the area. Speeding off towards the western path, the Beryl Region was upon him for what had to have been the third time in less than six hours.

Cruising through the mountains, and ignoring the pool of heated water, the familiar pool leading to Merusea Village awaited the soldier. Diving suit soon on, the early adult left his satchel beside a tiny grass hill. The boulders, they would only cause him to sink to the bottom, for sure. Slightly punctured oxygen tank behind him, the hyena's descension into the secret sea world was on like a lightbulb. But, as he reached the Melusine village, the sea lion pranksters reared their heads from a pool in the corner.

"Heya, Fatooer," Brume greeted, goofy smile on his face. "There's some kooky conch shells down here!" Eclater's voice soon joined the mix.

"Real kooky!" Eclater added. "You should like, gather them bro." He let out a mischievous laugh as he said such. What a sucker.

Seeing the unintelligent look on Brume and Eclater's faces, the early adult ignored the sea lion duo. Were they trying to prank him? There was no way he would fall for such, if they were. Did they think he was easy to fool? He wasn't about to be pranked; the troll under the bridge should remain in their dungeon.

Spotting peculiar looking conches on the ground around the village, the chimera had begun collecting. Objects have a metallic feel to them, the early adult flinched. Pocketing the objects, for a moment, the chimera kept on going. There was no time allow himself to be bothered by such. He had to keep gathering everything.

Collecting as many conches as he could in the village, the soldier took a deep breath. Was it just him, or had the shells been moving a little? Surely, it had to have been his imagination. But, as he prepared to dive down towards the underwater sections of the village, a battle cry hit the walls.

Underwater sea shells five times their normal size stroking towards him looking ready to pounce, the early adult had begun to get on the offensive. Fragile creatures removed from the living world as quickly as they had been put in it, the hyena swore he blinked and missed.

Final set of metallic conches collected in the underwater section of the undersea village, the sea lion siblings letting out an he told him so echoed on the waters. Hearing such, the chimera rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. They needed to eat a humble pie and simmer down.

Everything collected and accounted for, the early adult dragged himself off back towards the capital city of Fontaine. Reaching the underground city after two hours of struggled walking, the soldier let out a grunt. Books handed off to the young woman, crates of sugary dangers given to the requester, and metallic conches delivered, the early adult readied to exit for the evening, but one extra demand sliced him in the shoulder.

"Fish steak again, Mr.!" a kid demanded.

"You heard the kid! Make us fish steak!" the bird man shouted. "And make sure mine is pitch black!"

Letting out a groan, the early adult popped fish steaks over the portable stove once more. Meat simmered so black it was practically a piece of charcoal, the hyena held back the urge to cough. What a disgusting meal. If the bird man were to become ill from his burned meat, he would not assume any responsibility.

Bird man and children practically burning themselves as they grabbed their charcoal slabs, the soldier prepared the next order of business. Elderly gelato chilled and served, waves of words saying he was so sweet for helping had come his way. Entire poor nation fed and accounted for, the early adult ascended back towards the surface world.

Feeling a pulse shoot off in his head as he walked through the Court City, the early adult staggered back towards the boutique. The world was off kilter, slanted, thirty degrees to the left. Feeling pins and needles as he descended the staircase, the soldier swore his heart was beating in reverse as he headed back towards the guestroom. Slumping into the temporary bed, the hyena's eyes shut, in an instant.

He was running out of juice.

***

Dreaming continued to be a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The anguish was a flood, constantly raining down over and over with no signs of stopping. The flood was about to reach his chest and make him float away into the seas of anxiety any second now.

Before him had been a field of Lumidouce Bells. Seeing such, a wave of irritation flowed through the soldier. Why were there always flowers in his subconscious mind? He and nature were no longer speaking to each other. But, his subconscious thoughts were soon halted in a matter of moments.

In the corner of the plains had been a familiar face he could never forget in the mortal, waking world. Curly green hair and green eyes he would remember forever. Hase, what was she doing in the land of not reality before him? Whatever the reason, it could not have been a good thing.

As if the gods had turned their back, another set of people had soon entered the dream world. Hooded strangers crowding around Hase in a matter of dream seconds, stones dropped into the chimera's dream chest. What were they doing here? If they did anything to his sister, they would pay.

"Get away from me!" Dream Hase shouted at the top of her lungs. "I'll never side with you people!" But, a laugh hit the wind.

"Oops! It looks like you stole someone important from him!" one of the hooded strangers said.

"Nyahaha, this is revenge!" the other hooded stranger shouted.

Balls of fire soon in the palm of the stranger's hands, the early adult's eyes opened wide. Sister burned to ashes, the hyena let out a sea of screams from the dream throat. Shouts penetrating into reality, the dream world around him shook. Why would they bring Hase into this? He had to put a stop to this right away. His words, right, he had to use his words.

"Leave her out of this, please!" Siorc begged. But, his plea fell on deaf ears.

"What was that? He wants to be burned, too?" one of the hooded strangers asked in a sinister tone. "It's an honor, and a pleasure!"

Flames engulfing him in a matter of dream seconds, the soldier dropped down onto the grass beneath him. Feeling himself burn away, a sea of tears stroked down the chimera's dream cheek. As defeat were about to claim him in the not reality before him, one final thought took him away.

Why were they doing this?

***

"Why are they doing this to me, the
Hooded strangers, why are they still messing with me?
Yet again, they were in my dreams.

Ah, my heart is beating so hard and fast today. It hurts. Am I
Rupturing? Stress is beginning to
Eat away at me. The court case, the people glaring at me, all

These ridiculous requests, everything.
How can I keep up?
Everything is stressful. My heart is thumping, my head is fuzzing.
Yes, everything around me is fuzzy. But,

Don't let this weakness win. I have to keep working,
Or Her Majesty will kill me.
I cannot skip out on the job,
No matter what.
Get it together.

This is nothing. Dizziness, the fast
Heartbeat. They're nothing.
I cannot let this slow me down.
So, keep working. That is key."

Waking up the next morning, the soldier could feel himself shivering as he removed the covers from around him. When had it gotten so cold in the room? Heart beating hard and unevenly in his chest as he rose from the covers, the world of fuzz immediately overtook him. But, the soldier attempted to shake everything off. Why was his body acting up? He had no time for these distractions. Readying to drag himself towards the underground city, the soldier stumbled out of the guestroom.

World around him cloudy, the hyena attempted with all his might to keep on walking. Reaching the dining room, the early adult swore he could see worried eyes flock over him. But, the soldier shook it off. He was imagining things, surely. His glasses weren't on correctly.

Seeing Siorc stumble into the room, multiple alarm bells rung in her head. Young man's cheeks flushed a bright shade of red, multiple concern points flowed through her mind. Had he been ill? She had to bring him back into the guestroom right away. Working was out of the question, for sure.

"Darling, I think it's best you head back to bed," Malika said in a matter of fact tone. "I think you might have--" But she had soon been cut off as an unwelcome guest barged into her apartment. Fatui letting themselves in, she furrowed her eyebrows. "Excuse me, this is private property." But, such line went unheard as the Fatui grabbed ahold of Siorc's wrists.

"Oratrice. Now," the Fatui demanded.

Fatui grabbing ahold of his wrist, the world around the soldier numbed as he had been dragged off towards Marcotte Station. Eventually reaching the area, the hyena could feel his head spin as he had been pushed near the Fountain of Lucine. Hands on his back, another peculiar order had made its rounds known.

"Go," the Fatui demanded. "Sit under the fountain. Record the voices you hear now."

Pushed underneath the fountain, the early adult blinked. Did he just hear that correctly? Listen for voices in the fountain? He had to have been dreaming. There was no way this order was real. Hearing a young woman crying about how much longer, the hyena wrote down his findings.

Voice continuing to cry out various things one after another, the early adult's fingers shook as the pen strokes continued. Who was crying inside the fountain? Fatui eventually hauling him out, he had soon been dragged off towards the opera house. But, as he had been pushed towards the main room, the demoiselle stood upon the path.

"Good, the Fatui is here," the demoiselle said. "Come with me. The Oratrice is acting strange again."

Guided towards the scales of justice, the soldier could feel a pulse shoot through his head. Why did he have to be the one to observe the Oratrice? Wasn't he regarded with disdain? Standing towards the scales, pressure heavier than metal threw the soldier for a loop.

Oratrice screaming out cries for help, the abyss is tainting it, the early adult fell backwards onto the ground. Feeling himself about to slip away as the scale's cries continued, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment. Analytical legal tool screaming the monsters, they're going to eat it, another voice added itself to the crowd.

"You. Clear out the vermin behind the opera house and in the pool," the archon's bodyguard demanded.

Guided to the area behind the opera house, multiple shadow monsters surrounded the soldier. Everything cleared out after fifty attempts, the early adult dropped himself down into the body of water behind the place of many legal affairs. Barely able to defeat anything for hours on end, the vermin was stamped out slower than he could count.

Archon's bodyguard demanding he head for the Palais Mermonia right now, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. He was being taken to the Iudex's Office? There's no way he would want to do any sort of business with him whatsoever. Had spinning faster as the ride through Marcotte Station concluded, the important office building was upon him with no choice in the matter. Purple haired champion duelist informing the Chief Justice of the situation, eagle eyes were soon on the hyena.

"I believe it would be best to have another person take on this bounty," the Iudex said. "He does not look well."

Iudex making claims about his condition, the hyena could feel his body turn to ice. If he were to not do a job he was given, the Agent would tell Her Majesty he had shirked work. No way, he couldn't let him happen. Looking well or not, it did not matter. Hunting a bounty? There was no way that would be a problem for him.

"I am fine, sir," Siorc said, words labored. "I can work."

"In that case, please fight the outbreak of Gear Mechanica," the Iudex responded, stern tone of voice. "Robin and Raven are still suspended from bounty hunting duties. Your cooperation is very much appreciated."

Giving the Iudex a weak nod, a list had been handed off to the soldier. First location listed as north of the Marcotte Station, the early adult's eyes had become jelly. Hadn't he just been there no more than thirty minutes ago? Everything was looping, repeating reversing. Reaching the station once more, a surprise awaited the soldier.

Peculiar looking gear monsters all along the northern pathway, the soldier let out a gulp. Why were there so many of them here? The hawk and falcon's prohibition from participating in bounties had to have piled up multiple problems all at once. Claymore soon in front of him, the fight was on.

But, as the battles throughout the northern area kept going, everything stung inside the soldier like he had been hit with multiple Cicins at once. Gear monsters looking ready to end him as he wobbled for minutes on end, the chimera slapped his cheeks. He needed to focus. There was no way he could let the enemies win.

Fights with many difficulties blasting through the area further north from the space near the station, the hyena let out labored huffs of breath. Gear enemies spinning around him as the seconds paraded about, the soldier's eyes had begun to float. Was he at a carnival? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. He needed to focus.

Bounties crumbling into nothing but dust, the early adult focused his attention on the next bounty area. Reading the name Mount Esus East, the hyena tilted his head. What were machine monsters doing in a mountain range? How incredibly strange. Something was wrong about such painting.

Staggering upon the northern path for hours on end, a lush, green area beside a mountainscape awaited the soldier. Gear monsters spinning about looking ready to throw their invisible hands, the early adult's greatsword and the enemies shook hands with one another. Fuzz consuming his eardrums as the battle continued, everything buzzed around him.

Enemies vanquished after over one-hundred slashes, the early adult broke out into a sweat. Was it just him, or had the monsters been far more difficult than normal? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, everything had been categorized by a level, and his world had reached the highest possible outcome of eight. But, the early adult snapped such thoughts away. These were Robin and Raven's usual bounties. They had to have been tailored to their prowess, for sure.

Returning towards the northern areas around the Court of Fontaine, bounties had begun to drop like flies. Final destination upon him listed as the beaches in Elynas, the soldier's heart skipped more than fifteen beats. Elynas, he had to push onward, staggering upon the southward path, the world of fuzz had only gotten stronger.

Blurred world around him as sand crunched underneath his feet, the hyena rubbed his eyes. Had he dropped his glasses somewhere? Visibility had been reduced to half. Hearing continuing to buzz louder, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment. But, he soon shot them open, in an instant. He had to keep fighting. There was no time for rest.

Monsters vanquished after two hours of fighting, the soldier's knees shook at the last name written on the list. Final gear monster screaming at the location Fleuve Cendre, the hyena could feel himself freeze. The underground city? He had to go back there right away. If any of the less fortunate were to step near such a thing, their lives would be over, for sure.

Finding a gigantic looking inorganic gear creature much larger than all the rest, a seed of panic flowed through the soldier. But, such had not been the only moment of fear. Hooded strangers sitting on the edges of the enemy, barely audible laughter had come his way right, left, front, and center.

"We're going to wipe this city!" one of the hooded strangers shouted with gusto. "Nyahahaha!"

World of fuzz engulfing the soldier as he gazed at the large creature in front of him, the early adult could feel everything tingle one after another. Heart beating harder and faster as the hooded stranger's laughter barely registered. Muffled chuckles only continuing, a battle cry hit the streets.

"He is weak!" the other hooded stranger screeched. "You'll attack now!"

Hooded stranger's hands out in front them, a rusty orb fell into the unknown person's hands. Lunging the object forward, a metallic force and the early adult's chest had become intertwined as if they were soulmates. Everything around him cracking, the hyena fell backwards. Body and the rusty ground meeting, the early adult closed his eyes.

Game over.

***

Coming to no more than three minutes later, the muffed sound of battle cries flowed through the sewers. Echoes hitting his eardrums, the soldier gazed upward. Blurred black figure with wing shaped blobs the hyena swore he heard the sound of plucked feathers being used like a bow an arrow.

"Birds of Prey!" a muffled voice shouted.

Sound of a finger snapping, mechanical robot pieces burst into unusable scrap metal in a matter of moments. Wave of immense dizziness overtaking him once more, the hyena's body plopped back onto the metallic floor beneath him. World around him becoming black, the world of unconsciousness took the soldier away.

Game over, no continues left.

***

Coming to many hours later in a bed unknown to him, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera. Where had he been taken to? Feeling a sticky compress attached to his forehead and chest, confusion looped on repeat. Had he been injured? Nothing made any sense.

Faceless doctor soon jabbing a glass rod down his esophagus, the hyena could feel his airways tighten. Wet bulb raising as the seconds passed by, the early adult closed his eyes for a moment. Rod soon removed, a number he could not make out had been read aloud.

Feeling an array of gasses come in contact with his face, the world of unconsciousness took the soldier away once more. Blinking awake after what felt like a second, multiple eyes had been on him. Malika giving him the sharpest glare of the bunch, a scoldings baked a cake.

"The doctors just spent hours attempting to stabilize you," Malika said, arms across her waist. For some reason, her voice was low, and deep. "Siorc, if you have a bad heart, you mustn't push yourself! Until your boss arrives, you're resting here."

Scolding heard loud and clear, the early adult's knees buckled. It was game over, the penguin family knew. There was no way he would be able to do his job in their presence if they all knew about such. Knowing he had to apologize, the early adult clapped his hands together. Surely, his remorse would be heard. But, his wordless apology fell on blind eyes.

"Black fish steak brother, chill," the bird man said. "Catch some zs."

"We'll tell your mean boss you finished your duties, don't worry!" Earl exclaimed.

Pesky penguin soon pulling the covers over him, the hyena let out a sigh. Wasn't he already stable? This extra layer of caution was unnecessary, guaranteed. Feeling himself nod off once more, the world of dreams pulled the soldier back in for the third time in a row. Waking up an hour or so later, the Agent soon stepped into the room of unknown proportions. Everyone informing the masked man of his escapades, words had come the chimera's way.

"Good work, soldier," the Agent said. "You're dismissed."

Faceless doctor soon informing him he may be stable now, but he should not push himself, the early adult held back another eyeroll. Removing the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket, the soldier highlighted the waypoint in the military barracks. Ice cold hallways soon upon him, the chimera had begun walking.

Soundproof room upon him after fifteen minutes, the soldier sauntered onward. But, as he stepped foot into his room, the early adult's heart skipped five beats. Feeling himself grow tired swifter, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform removed as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses removed as well, the hyena closed his eyes. But as the dream world readied to invite him back in, one final thought looped on repeat.

Stress is bad for the heart indeed.

Chapter 9: Annapausis Adventure: It All Loops And Repeats

Chapter Text

"Guess Her Majesty
Has no idea what she's sending me
Out to do today.
She wants me
To light ghost candles, really?

Could these requests get
Any stranger? This is ridiculous,
No, I mustn't question it.
Do not. Such is forbidden.
Looks like things are only getting odder.
Evidently, I think I know. This is
Some sort of distraction.

Are those hooded strangers the one who caused this?
No, I'm overthinking.
No, I'm conclusion jumping.
All and all, I have to do as I am ordered.
Perhaps, nothing bad will happen.
As for the second order,
Unless I am utterly mistaken,
She wants me to go to Annapausis?
I don't understand, Your Majesty.
Surely, you know it is hidden behind a

Wall. It might be locked away.
How am I supposed to get there?
A failure is upon me, guaranteed.
That's the truth, obviously.

I have no choice but to try.
No choice but to attempt to enter.

The legendary sword,
Her Majesty just wants
Everything, doesn't she?

Well, don't question it.
Or, she will kill me.
Right, I'll have to try to find a way.
Look everywhere.
Don't give up.

I know failure will
Surely disappoint her.

Get around it, find another way
Or, perhaps I am
Incorrect. Maybe it is
Not locked.
Guess there is only

One way to find out.
Now, I suppose, this legendary sword,

You want to conquer the world with it, don't you, Your Majesty?
Oh, I see now, I truly get it.
Upon thinking about it further, I
Really, truly see now, she'll do anything. And use any

Means to get me to go somewhere.
Ah, I see now, I understand clearly. This is
Just another place on that
Ever growing checklist of yours! Ha,
Siorc Ingne,
The 'Diplomatic Fatui Soldier.'
Yeah, right. I'm just a pawn on her chessboard. One move away from checkmate."

Four days had passed since the hyena helped people out within the underground Fleuve Cendre city in Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Business affairs in Liyue taking up the ninety-six hours like always, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

The sound of a loud explosion from multiple rifles at once broke the sound barrier. As countless shots were fired, many shatter proof windows stood up to the test as the early morning hours marched onward. Volume only increasing, not a single soul within the military barracks remained asleep.

The shots in a chorus were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Hearing a bullet slam into his window with full force, a wave of confusion flowed through the sleep dazed soldier. What in the world was going on? Who was shooting so early in the morning? But, the hyena attempted to tune out such noise. There was no time to focus on such. Raising from the uncomfortable bed, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the hyena's uniform melted over his partially human person, the shots about in the outside world had only begun to get louder. Fingers trembling as he closed his buttons shut, the early adult grit his teeth. What could all this commotion possibly be? Focus shifting, the soldier headed for the barricaded window.

Peeking through the paned glass, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. Spotting multiple young looking soldiers who looked no older than fifteen shooting targets, the early adult could feel his heart grow cold. They were recruiting people that young? While he knew he had been forcefully recruited two years below such, whoever had attempted to turn them into soldiers should let them go. Being with the Fatui would only bring them pain, for sure. But, he supposed he had no right to voice such opinion.

Turning around, the early adult shook his head. What was he doing, allowing himself to get distracted? He had no time to be thinking about such things. Any minute now, the Agent could arrive. Moving away from the window, the soldier walked towards his jewelry and accessory box.

Cover soon removed, the early adult clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings in place. Matching sunflowers adorning his hair and ears, the chimera stared at the steel walls. While nature and he were on a break, he had this deep seeded feeling he had to wear this set today, no matter what.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier wandered back towards the window. Bright wide eye recruits, the hyena studied the group of young Fatui, for a moment. Who could have possibly recruited these people? Hadn't most Snezhnayan born people warned about this organization? But, the chimera threw such thoughts off a cliff. It was no business of his how people operated around here.

Removing himself from the window the soldier placed his heelless shoes over his currently human feet. But, as he had begun to do so, the early adult stared at the wall. The Fatui and their reputation, why would anyone want to join this organization knowing how low the approval rating had been from the many other nations? But, he supposed such barely mattered to most people who willingly enlisted or had been recruited.

As the hyena bit down into his flavorless rations, the chimera could not help but wonder. What could possibly await him today? He knew he had to ready for anything that was about to come his way. Hearing another series of rifles shooting from the outside, the early adult took a long deep breath. He needed to remain calm.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots stomp about with a militaristic fervor, the early adult turned his attention towards the door. The time for thinking was over, he had to get ready for the workday at hand. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on his most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his militaristic day of anything to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be going around Fontaine to light ghost candles to vanquish them and acquire robot sunflowers and the legendary sword in Annapausis." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. All uncharted areas should be recorded for Her Majesty.

Siorc jumped four steps back. He has to do what now? Light ghost candles? He did not quite understand this mission. Wouldn't giving them a flame only make the situation worse? There was no way this would help out the Nation of Justice in any possible way, guaranteed. What a ridiculous order to be had, for sure.

The soldier stared off into space, for a moment. Find robotic sunflowers? What an absolutely ridiculous request. Nature and he were having a messy break up with one another. Why, of all objects, did Her Majesty want flowers for? There was no way they had anything useful that would aid her in any way.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You will be heading to Fontaine today to do various tasks!" there was an irritated tone in his voice, what could possibly be on the soldier's mind besides work? He was none the wiser. "The candles will disappear once lit! Quit dawdling, and get a move on!"

The chimera flinched. Right, there was no time to think about anything, he was on the nonexistent clock. Taking a deep breath, the soldier placed his arm out in front of him. It was a crime to keep Her Majesty waiting. He had to flip on the work mode switch right now and focus.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Making sense or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.

"Good. We're going soldier," the Agent responded. Bag soon slammed onto his back, the early adult flinched. The satchel, was it made out of leather? What a terrible material. Wrist gripped into a tight squeeze, gripping prison was as relentless as it always had been, the soldier let out a deep sigh as the escort to Fontaine soon began.

Why robotic sunflowers?

***

"The world belongs to the abyss!
How can the surface dwellers continue to
Egotistically take what's ours? The

Reality is that this world is ours!
Every place, nook and cranny! For this
Very reason, we shall keep keep going! Teyvat belongs to the
Order! That's how it should be!
Looks like the only way these people will learn is to
Utterly annihilate everything!
Take advantage of energy by
Inviting some invasive guests!
Ohohoho, it is time to raise the stakes!
Now that that cursed Fatui has gotten in our way, we shall

Begin the deeper proceedings!
Eyes on us as the world burns brightly!
Get rid of this old world and
Ignite former glory!
Nyahahaha!
Soon, the world shall reverse back to the way it used to be!

No more archons, humans rely on them too much!
Your world is built on lies
And heresy!
Hypocrisy! Lies and foolery!
All will go back to
How everything used to be.
All this malicious energy, or so those
Haggard denizens claim is
A small price to play to take back what

Should be ours! We shall prevail! Our
Ultimate goal shall be
Realized, achieved!
For the abyss! For
All of those who have seen the truth!
Come one, and come all for this
Ever ongoing campaign!

We will get back what's ours,
Or what should have always been! Be
Righteous, loud proud!
Leer at those who oppose reality!
Drown those with the facts

Graciously!
Everyone shall submit to the abyss
They shall soon see the truth, and the

Reality! Our rebellion might have failed
Eons and eras
Ago, but we shall succeed! Those who dare
Defy us and fight,
Your time is up! Submit!"

Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint, the young soldier turned his attention towards the sky above. Spotting multiple clouds above him, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Was it about to rain in the cities again? The court was busy, as always. Dragged down the mountains, the chimera kept himself focused.

Boat summoned out of nowhere as usual, the soldier prepared himself. Any second now, and it was going to rain, guaranteed. Placed into the wooden vessel, the early adult remained as still as he could possibly muster. Mist covering the world, the soldier swore he had returned to Tsurumi Island in Inazuma.

As the vehicle of manpower kept cruising through the fog, the hyena could not help but ponder. Annapausis, why did Her Majesty want him to go there? He recalled what Baron had said to him the last time he had been near it. If he were to go there, he would be stuck in some sort of corridor. Was it some sort of maze? He supposed he would soon find out.

Vessel soon docked through the mist, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Snezhnayan born Fatui were born different. Dragged through the walkways, the chimera focused his attention on everything in front of him. The fog, he could not help but feel something eerie about it. But, the chimera snapped himself out of it as the Agent's voice brought him back to reality.

Agent giving him the same old song and dance of not being allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the early adult held back the urge to groan. How many times is he going to be informed about such? He was getting quite tired of being told this same order over and over again. But, the hyena kept himself quiet. He knew, no matter how many times he were to come here, he would hear it each and every time.

Subordinate soon departing from the area, the early adult ascended the staircase. Glass lift soon taken as well, the chimera could feel himself begin to freeze up at the sight before him. Long line around the Aquabus, the chimera let out a gulp. He was about to have a very difficult day ahead of him, for sure.

Turning his head to the right and left as the Aquabus arrived slowly, the chimera observed the people around him. Fancy rich people dressed up to the nines like always, a wave of doom flowed through the hyena. If any of them were to spot him, he would be tossed off the harbor in no time.

But, no such violence ever came. Everyone minding their own business, a wave of relief flowed through the chimera. Not a single person paying him any mind, the soldier blinked. Had everyone already forgotten he was a member of the Fatui? Luck, and the archons were definitely on his side today, if such were truly the case.

Vessel soon arriving, the soldier waited his turn as everyone in front of him had begun to enter the vehicle of automatic prowess. Seating himself upon the furthest seat possible, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why was it so busy today? Melusine even commenting it was a full house today, reminders to stay seated at all times had been fired off.

As the Aquabus had begun to move towards the Poisson Tunnel, the soldier could not help but wonder. These so called ghost candles, how could they have possibly shown up around the Nation of Justice? Wouldn't such fit better with Wuwang Hill in Liyue? Nothing was adding up to two. However such obstacles had gotten here was beyond him.

Vehicle passing by the pathway towards the Opera House, the hyena gazed at the highly well dressed crowd around him. Could these people be preparing to go see some sort of show? He knew that when there was no court case going on, the hall would be used for various other means. But, he supposed, whatever that may have been, it was not his business.

Reaching the capital city after about an hour, the early adult crooked his head back towards the sky. The mist, why was it still there? Would dispelling the candles within remove such phenomenon? Perhaps, just maybe, the world of sunlight will return in such situation. Stepping off the vessel, the chimera prepared himself for the workday a hand.

But, as the hyena reached the court city, a thick atmosphere plagued the area. Tenseness in the air, the soldier could not help but feel the warm feeling around him. Was Fontaine hotter than normal? But, the soldier knew he had to bear with it. He had to locate the ghost candles as soon as possible.

Coming across a scroll in his back pocket of the satchel, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Her Majesty was writing instructions in such fancy paper, really? Had she been bitten by the rich bug? Highly wealthy people were diseased with no cure other than losing all their riches, for sure. Opening the scroll up, words written in Snezhnayan awaited him.

"The candles within the city are on the rooftops. Burn them," the note in clear Snezhnayan said.

The early adult clicked his tongue. He had to climb up onto rooftops? What a ridiculous order. People from all over the area were going to stare at him, for certain. There was no way he was going to be able to do this mission without eyes sizing him up. But, he knew he had no choice but to do what the scroll was instructing him to do, or Her Majesty would kill him.

Seeing a small smudge on the scroll reading the third floor, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. The building's roofs on the third floor? What a terrible place to begin burning candles. Letting out a barely audible grunt, the early adult had begun walking. He had no choice in the matter, he had to start with the point listed first.

Figuring the easiest way to reach the third floor was to head for the glass box inside the Aquabus information station, the early adult had begun to walk towards the eastern path. Surely, these candles weren't that big enough of a deal that he had to be on the case for this. But, the early adult threw such thoughts out. Questioning Her Majesty's orders was forbidden.

Walking through the city streets as he kept his eyes open for any buildings, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Rich citizens going about their day as always, the soldier kept his heelless shoes forward. No one had been even the slightest bit unnerved, whatsoever. Surely, this was just some sort of misunderstanding.

Hearing a group of people discussing strange monsters had been spotted around Mount Esus, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Just how much was going on around Fontaine lately? Fruit stand man saying that Robin and Raven will get on that case, the soldier could feel himself shiver. If he were to cross paths with them again, he would wind himself up in his second court case, for sure.

Turning his head towards the right and left as he had reached the area with the strange globe above the fountain, a building that stuck out amongst the crowd caught the soldier's attention. Had he finally found the Aquabus information station? It was time to head over to the glass box inside it, if such were the case.

Doors swinging open as the early adult stepped foot inside, a face he did not wish to see polluted the area from inside out. Earl in the corner by the box of many technological marvels, the hyena held back to urge to let out a groan. Why was this man everywhere he was all the time? He needed to avoid his gaze and move fast.

But, such had been a quick and utter failure. Earl's annoying eyes soon on him, the early adult crunched his sharp teeth together. Did he always have to walk over to him whenever he saw him? If this thorn in his side was about to invite him home again, he was not interested whatsoever. If such conversation were about to happen, he would let him off with a sea of ice.

Seeing Siorc walk by the elevator, Earl could feel the world light up around him. Was he here to get rid of those silly candles? He would definitely need some sort of assistance if he was sent here to get rid of him. Surely, his future husband would thank him if he were to be by his side.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Seems we're always running into each other!" He let out a giggle. "Are you here about the candles? Let me help you!"

The early adult let out a sigh. Let Earl help him out? There was no way he could allow him to get himself hurt on his behalf, no way. He would not wish injury upon anyone whatsoever, no matter how much of an annoyance they might have been. Stepping towards the glass lift, he readied to make his defiance known.

"Please do not, sir," the hyena responded, stepping forward.

Hearing Siorc's rejection, Earl could feel his heart snap in two. He didn't want his help? He supposed he understood where he was coming from. If he did not want him in his business for today, he would butt himself out of it, for now. But, if he needed to come to his rescue, he would do so like any good future wife would.

"Okay, I understand," Earl replied, voice deflated. "Be careful out there! They're really high up!"

Bowing a thank you, the soldier placed himself into the glass room. Buttons in the corner, the soldier pressed the one labelled third floor. Cylinder of automatic power moving upward upon the floor, the early adult stood still upon the platform. If he were to move even a centimeter, he would fall out, for sure.

Lift soon taking him to the city's third story, the soldier stepped outside. Feeling something dense in the air, the early adult knew now more than ever. There definitely something malignant lurking around here, for sure. Whatever it might have been that was fueling these candles, he had to get rid of it right away.

Spotting multiple candles on the rooftops, the early adult took a long, deep breath. It was time to get ready for the battle of a lifetime. Putting up a glass wall around the phobia deeply seeded within him, the chimera had begun the ascent upward. These candles weren't normal, he had to block out his feelings of fear.

Odd looking sea of black waxy candles seated upon the roof giving off an aura of darkness, the soldier swore he could hear them speaking to him as he approached them. Was it just his imagination, or had the unlit objects whispered for him to side with the abyss? Surely, it had to have just been his imagination. Candles could not talk.

Combing through his satchel, a box of matches plopped itself into the soldier's hands. Seeing such, the hyena could feel his knees shake. He was going to have to light a match? How incredibly terrifying. But, the early adult swallowed his fears like they were a plate of lasagna. There was no time to be afraid. He had to get rid of the candles now.

Striking the match against the side of the box, the flammable tip had begun to burn a bright shade of purple. Seeing such, a wave of confusion flowed through the soldier. Was something wrong with this match? Pushing fear away once more, the soldier stepped towards the candles.

Purple flames roaring about as the candles had begun to disintegrate, the soldier's eyebrows had begun to twitch. Was that really all it took to get rid of these foreign objects? Striking the match against the side again, the chimera prepared himself. Wick soon lit, the soldier waited.

Candles flickering for multiple seconds as they melted into nothing, the chimera swore he could once again hear something whisper at him to join the abyss. But, the hyena shook his head. He had to have been hearing things. There was no way anyone was saying that to him. Climbing onto the second roof, five further candles awaited him.

Two of the five candles lit up, the early adult jumped four steps back as he witnessed a peculiarity begin to take shape. Was it just his imagination, or had the candles grown hands as they melted away? Snapping himself out of it, he walked towards the other three. There was no way that was the case. His imagination was overactive today.

Rest of the wicks lit up, white hands appeared one after another as the violet flames burned a cinder for a few moments. Floating limbs of doom vanishing in seconds along with the ghastly enemies, the early adult kept moving. There were no floating hands, he was imagining it. There was nothing to see.

Looking over the scroll for a moment, the hyena let out a grunt as he read over the list carefully. Stating he had to vanquish the foreign objects upon five rooftops, the chimera slammed the fancy instructions shut. He had to climb even more rooftops? There had to have been a line to draw at such high stakes climbing by now.

Ascending the next roof, a sea of six candles awaited the soldier. But, as he lit the next match, the fear glass soon broke. The fire, it was right in front of him. Burning, glowing, simmering, heating him up. Tear welling up, the soldier swore he could hear something scream at him in the corner.

"Give you emotions to the abyss!" a voice with a triple echo shouted.

The soldier snapped himself out of it as such screams had come his way. Give his emotions up to the abyss? No way? What was the abyss, anyway? He wasn't about to give himself up to such a place he had never heard of. Tossing his fears behind the broken glass once more, the soldier stepped towards the obstacles. He couldn't let fear win today, no matter what.

Flames growing as the soldier lit the first two candles upon roof number three, the hyena swore he could hear a voice shouting more, give them more. But, such call of greed was short lived. Fire fizzling out after six seconds, the ghostly wax melted itself into a puddle of nothing.

Trio of wax lighters removed from the picture after they were lit, the early adult could not help but wonder. Just what were these candles? Whatever they were, there was no way they posed any true danger to anyone. But, he supposed their presence was not welcome, and extermination of them was a must.

Reaching the next building, the young soldier almost did a triple take. Was there only three candles on the rooftop in front of him? How strange. But, he knew that he had to get rid of them before something were to befall the Court of Fontaine. Match soon struck, the dark violet flame roared.

Candle blowing up in a spectacular explosion as he lit the stick, oozing black wax poured onto the early adult's uniform like a pumpkin's insides had rotten all over him. What were these objects, bombs? Disgusting, he was going to have to wash off his uniform later, for sure.

Other two candles getting their waxy juices all over him as their oily tips flickered for a brief moment. Gross, were these foreign objects purposely blowing up on him? Wax sticking to every centimeter of his shoulders and hips, a wave of irritation flowed through him. Just what he needed right now, a dirty uniform. If anyone saw him, glares of disgust would come his way.

Only one roof remaining, the early adult had begun to climb once more. But, as he had done so, the chimera could not help but wonder further. Just who, or what, rather, was the abyss? He had never heard about such place, person, or entity from anyone, or anything. Not even the books in his father's study in his stolen childhood ever mentioned such a place.

But, as the chimera ascended onto the fifth and final rooftop, the candles had begun to get on the offensive. Blobby bubbles of watery wax coming his way at lightning speed, the early adult placed his arms into an x-shape and placed them in front of his face as if they were a suit of armor.

Attacks fizzling out after a short while, the soldier's match was ready. Flames burning themselves out as they erupted into a fiery spectacle. Closing his eyes as the fire grew together into one giant, the hyena swore a message had been blasted into his eardrums to stop resisting.

Candles living to see the next few minutes, the early adult backed four steps away as the flames kept on growing. Were the foreign objects fighting back? How was that even possible? Waxes looking ready to explode at any given second, the soldier fueled the ghostly fire once more. Perhaps, letting them overblow was the only option.

Lavender flames boiling into overdrive, even more layers of gross wax soon decorated the soldier's uniform. Sticking his tongue out in disgust, the early adult descended from the rooftops. Was he about to become the wax monster? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. He needed to focus on work. He could worry about such insignificant side effect to candle fighting later.

Note informing him to head for the docks next, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. There was still more of these foreign objects in the city? Recalling there had been a dock on the other side of the Aquabus station, the early adult had begun walking. The faster he were to get to the area, the better.

As the soldier had begun heading for the docks, the hyena could not help but wonder. Who could have possibly dropped these candles around the city? Whoever had done so was quite the irresponsible person, for sure. But, he supposed villains couldn't care less if their actions caused problems for others.

Spotting boats off in the distance, the chimera took a deep breath. Any minute now, and he would have to light the next set of candles. If there were multiple people around, he knew eyes aplenty would be all over him. Stepping in a careful manner, the boats soon awaited.

Finding himself beside the Clementine Line after a short trip to the second floor, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Counting at least ten candles making themselves at home around the docked boats and walkways, the hyena steeled himself for the inevitable wax explosions to grace his short body.

But, as the hyena had begun to light the first ghastly wick, another face he did not wish to see had come stepping towards him. Baron walking by with a suit even dirtier than his jacket, the soldier held back the urge to groan. Why were the penguin chimeras everywhere he was? How annoying. They should walk in the opposite direction instead of towards him.

Seeing Siorc walk by those so called ghost candles, Baron shook their head. Why was he trying to light them? What an utterly unintelligent move. They had heard what had happened while they were away on business in Bayda Harbor. Did he want people to think even lower of him than they did now? How boorish.

"Do you really think it's a good idea to light those?" Baron asked, sighing. "Did you not think this through? They could cause a fire. Do you wish for people to think lower of you than they already do?"

The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Was this opinion even necessary? He did not ask for this. What did it matter what they thought? He had no choice but to light the candles. Giving the penguin the coldest of shoulders, the soldier struck the match across the box. Perhaps showing them that they just melted immediately would keep them quiet.

Candle setting itself ablaze and melting into nothing in no more than thirty seconds, the soldier let out a sigh as the waxy aftermath had come back to haunt him once more. Chunk collection only getting bigger, the hyena attempted to compose himself, for a moment.

Watching as the candle blew up into nothing but residual wax, Baron placed their hand on their chin. What a peculiar object. Witnessing them only last for half a minute upon being lit up, they adjusted their monocle for a moment. These were quite the abnormal specimens.

"Apologies for butting in," Baron said, adjusting their monocle. "Don't hurt yourself."

Baron soon leaving, the early adult resumed the candle light session upon him. Second and third candles fading away as if they were going off to their next world, the early adult puffed a heavy sigh of relief. Was their waxy rampage finally done? Readying to light the next set of foreign objects, the early adult prayed to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship for such to be the case.

Seven other candles around the area vanquished, the soldier read the next name upon the scroll in front of him. Directions informing him some had made themselves at home around the city's busiest streets, the chimera flinched. If people were around in the area, he would be given death glares, for sure.

Descending back towards the lower floors of the city, the soldier prepared himself. Surely, the rest of the candles were hiding in places that were away from prying eyes. Heading for the northern streets, the chimera prepared himself. Spotting a candle beside a bush, the hyena's legs erupted into a speedy sprint.

Readying to send the foreign object back to whence it came, the early adult swore he could hear a voice tell him to submit himself to the abyss. Hearing such, the soldier refused to listen to such and join something he had absolutely no business joining? No way, not a chance. Candle soon lit its afterlife was over.

Next set of foreign objects taken out of the picture inside the rectangular hedges, the soldier let out a sigh. Whoever was placing these here was certainly not trying to hide them. But, he supposed, not all people who labelled themselves as villains were smart. Spotting a ghastly candle on top of the Adventurer Guild's desk, the early adult sprung into action.

Receptionist looking frightened as the enemy from another world melted into a puddle of waxes, the early adult bowed an apology. But such apology had fallen of deaf ears at the receptionist claimed she was rebooting. Hearing such, the early adult held back a tongue click. Was this some kind of joke?

Moving along towards a clockwork shop, whatever that was, the final candle in the area had been extinguished. But, his job within the city had only reached its climax. Scroll informing him to head for the walkway past the Palais, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. The area just outside the Iudex's office? What a terrible time to go to such place.

Heading back to the glass lift upon the first floor, the soldier prepared himself. All he needed to do was light the candles, and move on. Surely, no one would attempt to toss him to the Chief Justice for another trial. But, as the hyena traversed towards the outskirts of the city, the hyena swore he could feel a chill in the air.

Spotting multiple candles look as though they could sprout legs and fight the citizens roaming about the early adult placed the box of matches in front of him. But, as the wooden aspen stick struck the sandy conductor in the corner, legs sprouted up like weeds in a garden.

Candles dashing up towards a Melusine in the corner looking ready to blast her with all the energy in it system imaginable, the soldier dashed towards the enemy like a speeding bullet in a Fatui Bracer's rifle. Lighting the center of the foreign object as fast as his fingers would allow, the soldier watched in horror as the flame grew for minutes on end.

Although, such bravado was short lived. Foreign object seeing itself out, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Just how weak were these enemies? Even a Pyro Slime could defeat them, if they desired. Every other ghastly item attempting to grow legs as he walked towards them, their fuse had soon been burned out almost immediately.

Reading the next name upon the list, the soldier almost had to do a quadruple take. There had been some spotted by the main fountain in the city? How had he not seen them earlier? Who had written this list? But, he supposed a God would have futuristic insight, even in a region where they did not have any sort of rule.

Hearing multiple voice telling him to join the abyss as he headed towards the fountain, the chimera could not help but begin to wonder. Could there have been an invisible person following him around? Turning his head towards the right and left, a chill went down his spine. The walls had ears.

Stepping towards the fountain, the chimera could feel a chill in the air. Was it just him, or had it suddenly gotten a little colder? But, the hyena remained focused. He couldn't allow himself to get distracted, an obstacle had to be removed. Candles lit and vanquished with no problem, the city streets had been freed.

Reading the Beryl Region next upon the paper, the early adult let out a sigh. The enemy had been outside the city, as well? He needed to get moving and take care of it. Figuring the quickest way to get there was to take the Aquabus halfway, the soldier headed back towards the Romaritime Harbor station.

But, as he headed for the station, a triple whammy slammed itself down upon the unwanted encounters. Malika stepping off he Aquabus, the soldier attempted to skirt around her. While she had been the more tolerable of the three, there was no time for conversation. But, such action of silence was wishful thinking as her eyes were on him.

"It's nice to see you again, darling. How are you doing?" Malika asked. "Are you feeling better?"

Hearing Malika's question, the soldier supposed he owed her an answer. Giving her a quick nod, the chimera walked towards the Aquabus. It was best to keep such interaction short, or the automatic water vehicle would leave without him. Tallest penguin woman giving him a smile, a quick farewell had come his way.

"That's good, darling, I'm glad," Malika responded. She then waved a farewell. "I'll let you get back to your work. Be safe."

Aquabus soon leaving the station, the soldier stared off into space, for a moment. The ghost candles, where could they have possibly come from? Whoever this abyss organization was, they had picked the weakest type of object to serve as their weapon of battle, for sure.

As the vehicle had gotten further away from the court city, the chimera gazed at the scenery around him. The opera house, what could be going on around there right about now? The oratrice, was it still breathing? He recalled the last time he had been near it, it had also mentioned the abyss.

Almost at the halfway point, the early adult shivered, for a moment. The abyss, just how much had they been responsible for? If they had been behind everything that occurred around Fontaine, he was in for a huge battle, for sure. But, now was not the time to think about such things.

Readying to hop off the Aquabus halfway through its route, an inquiry about whether he was sure he wanted to exit had come his way. Nodding, the early adult leaped off the edge as if he was about to do a somersault. Such action, however was short lived. Blinding light overtaking him, his body was soon elsewhere.

Finding himself within the mountains in the southern region of Elynas, the early adult could feel a wave of unease flow through him. What had just happened? Had he just stepped into an invisible portal that lead him astray? Candles everywhere along the cliffside, the soldier rolled up his chunky sleeves. It was time for candle burn out, round two.

Stepping towards the foot of the mountain, a sea of dark red energy rained down upon the chimera. Feeling his energy fade away as such dropped down on him, the hyena felt a heavy wave of doom flow through him. Had the foreign objects gained some new tricks? He needed to light them before they took him out first.

First candle brimming with a light green flame as it took itself out, an explosion of energy bathed the soldier deep. Vitality taking a hit, the early adult let out a huff. What in the world was that dark red power? Hit by it once more, the hyena swore his Dendro Vision grew slightly dimmer. But, the hyena pushed such thoughts away. What did he care if such were the case?

Two more inorganic enemies burning into dust as their wicks had been lit, a wave of tiredness loomed over the chimera. But, the hyena shook it off. Now was not the time to feel low on energy. There was still work to be done. Red energy bathing deep into him with every step up the mountain, his vitality only dropped further.

Final set of candles alongside the edges of the cliffs melting like a wicked western witch in a boiling pot of water in another universe, the early adult ascended towards the top of the mountainside. Huffing a heavy breath, the fatigue only grew inside him. But, as he regained a tiny slice of life back in him, a sight of horrors stood before him.

Tall candle large enough to topple even Malika in height, the chimera's knees buckled. Spotting large hands sprout out from its supposed waist area, a chill ran down the hyena's spine. What was going on? How did this gigantic foreign object get here? Something had been amiss, for sure. Feeling sticky, waxy hands soon behind him, a shout took the to the skies.

"All hail the abyss!" a voice shouted.

Hands pushing him to the edge of cliffsides, the chimera's body had soon become airborne. Ground rapidly approaching at breakneck speed, the early adult let out a scream. Was this it? Was this the end? If he were to land back first onto the grass below, it was over, he was done, extinguished, finished, ghostier than the candles on the mountainsides.

A savior would soon take the stage.

Thick, green vines slapping down onto his ankles and wrists, a force carried the soldier back up to the top of the mountainsides. Plants vanished as mysteriously as they arrived, the chimera took a frantic breath. What just happened? He supposed, he owed nature for saving him from utter doom.

Ascending the large, towering wax torch, the soldier swore he felt like he was about to light a bonfire for some sort of gladiators competition hundreds of years in the past. Seeing a bright golden flame erupt from the top as the enemy had begun to melt, the chimera could not help but wonder. Did the flames mean something? But, the hyena shook his head. There was no way he would know if such were the case.

Smaller foreign objects melting into a puddle after being lit one after another, the chimera descended the mountains. He supposed the color of the flames didn't matter. There was no way they meant anything in particular. Walking upon the northern pathway for awhile, everything soon grew quiet.

Reaching the boiling pool of water in the corner, the hyena could hardly believe his eyes. Candles boiling alongside the river with the strange blue devices, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Were the foreign objects baking themselves? How strange. Perhaps, just maybe, they would be easier to get rid of in such a state.

But, such proved to not be the case, in an instant. Rounds of dark red energy soon engulfing him as he stepped near the first candle, the hyena could feel his vitalities drain away even further. Feeling himself begin to wobble as the onslaught had come his way, the early adult could feel himself closed into a deep, dark tunnel. Candles yelling come into the abyss, the rampage soon continued.

Energy levels about to reach zero, the boiling waters beneath his feet had become player two. Dropping down onto his knees as the world around him clouded, everything grew dark, for a moment. But, after a few seconds, the soldier found himself beside the teleport waypoint in the corner. Seeing such, a sea of bewilderment flowed through the soldier. What in the world just happened? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, if one lost to a monster in battle, the body would be poofed back to their most recent checkpoint instead of losing their life. But, such fact was unknown to the hyena.

Barely feeling any energy remaining the soldier dragged himself back towards the heated waters. Candles looking ready to knock him out once again, the chimera had gotten the flint ready. Green flames taking out the enemies one after another, a fatigued huff flowed through the soldier. Everything taken care of, the chimera continued to head north. Silence looping on repeat, no other monsters entered the fray.

Such peace and quiet, however, was a fleeting moment. Hearing a series of splashes about as he had gotten closer towards the lake that lead to Merusea Village, an unsurprising set of heads stuck themselves out of the water. Brume and Éclater coming upward, their four grey eyes soon gave him a terrified look. Prankster sea lions looking ready to say something stupid, the early adult only left one ear open.

"Fatooer, bad news! There's candles everywhere up north, bro!" Brume exclaimed, flipper pointing in the wrong direction of south. "They're kooky!"

"They're scary dude!" Éclater added. "Glowing, and goopy and everything!"

The hyena let out a sigh. Was that last comment about them having some sort of goop necessary? Did either of these sea lions know what wax was? But, he supposed he was tempering his expectations too high for the undersea prankster denizens of Merusea Village. Giving the brothers a nod, the soldier had begun to head north.

But, as the soldier climbed up the hill near the waterfall, a peculiar monster caught the soldier's attention. Strange looking Hilichurl with an Abyss Mage robe, holding candles in its hands, the hyena backed six steps away. Where had this creature come from? Monster soon spotting him from beneath its mask, the foreign objects soon became swords.

Strange monster coming his way, the candle swords swung towards him. Waxy blade poking into his hip with its disgusting crusty texture, the soldier let out a scream. Did this monster just make his uniform even filthier? It would pay dearly for such mistake. Opening his mouth, his fangs were ready for anything.

Lunging forward onto the monster's cape, the soldier's teeth sunk in. Fangs going down deeper as the seconds unfolded, Hilichurl screams filled the area. Enemy flailing about, the hyena kept on going. Biters soon reaching cursed bone, realization washed over the hyena. Removing himself from the enemy, the creature soon faded into the ether.

Regaining his senses, the soldier stared off into space. Why did he let himself carried away? Such acts of violence in battle were inexcusable. What did it matter if the monster had gotten his uniform dirtier? It was had already been filthy. He needed to get over it, and move on.

Vanquishing multiple candle holding Hilichurls as he pressed onward through the northern pathway, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Why had the monsters been answering to whoever the abyss was? But, he supposed he did not know enough about the creatures to ever have a logical conclusion to come to.

Every other monster defeated with their wax infused hands, the chimera took a long, deep breath. Elynas was quite the peculiar area, indeed. But, the spikes in difficulty had only grown thorns as he reached a beast circle. Object soon glowing a mysterious power, a new guest awaited him.

Abyss Mage adorning a light bronze-yellow robe, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was this Mage aligned with the Geo element? How incredibly peculiar. He had never seen any wielding the powers of Anemo, Geo, nor Dendro. Masked creature turning towards him, a magical staff with the symbol of a rock had been waved upward.

"Accept our offerings and join the Abyss!" the Abyss Mage squealed.

Words coming his way to join the enemy's side, the early adult shook his head. Join the Abyss? No way. Why would he do such a thing? This Mage, had they been the candle culprit? If such were the case, he needed to defeat them right now. Closing his eyes, his human hands had become hyena claws.

Slashing his claws forward into the Abyss Mage's cape for minutes on end, the soldier could hear the monster scream for mercy. But, the chimera would not stop. Was the enemy trying to feign a surrender? There was no way he was about to fall for such a thing. Claws sinking in, more screams hit the battlefield.

Creature looking weaker with every given moment, the chimera kept the onslaught going. But, such advantage was fizzled out like a flame in a matter of moments. Abyss Mage letting out a laugh calling him smarter than he thought, the creature soon poofed away, for a moment.

Candles with arms and legs soon joining the party, the soldier held back the urge to rip the Mage's cap straight off its body. He was getting quite tired of seeing the foreign objects show up unwanted. Match struck against the rough sandpaper, the flame had become the lamb to the slaughter.

Mage soon attempting to shield itself, the soldier kept his strikes going. Defenses weakening slowly, but surely, the monster dropped onto the ground. Pushing his heelless shoes onto the enemy's backside, the creature attempted to beg for mercy. Abyssal recruiter's back slammed into a tree, the monster had become one with nature.

Continuing onward towards the northern path for awhile, silence had begun to loop on repeat once more. Reaching the edge of Elynas after about an hour of walking, an eerie feeling soon loomed over the soldier. Feeling a set of hands behind him once more, his backside had been airborne for the second time of the day.

Seabed rapidly approaching, the early adult closed his eyes. It was over. If he were to land in the ocean without his diving equipment, he would drown for sure. He was finished, toast, seafood for the jellyfish and Bubberbeasts. Scraps to be devoured. Accepting his fate as the waters were drawing closer, the soldier kept his eyes shut.

But, a savior would soon rise again.

Feeling a sea of vines wrap around him for the second time of the day, the hyena's body had been carried back upwards towards Elynas. Sea plants plopping him back where he had fallen, the early adult's heart beat faster than a Rishbound Tiger pouncing on its prey. What just happened? Lighting one final match as his thoughts raced inside him, no candles remained in the area.

Figuring it was time to head downward to Annapausis, the soldier had begun to walk into the southward direction. Recalling the area had been in the northern most area of the Elton Trench, the chimera steeled himself. If he were going to go down there, he needed to proceed with caution if the underwater penguin duo were to be within eyes range of him.

Beaches of the Belleau region only getting closer with every step, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could possibly await him in Annapausis? The underwater area, he knew absolutely nothing about it. The legendary sword, how did it end up in such a place? But, he supposed he would find out when he were to reach it.

Sandy area reached after about an hour of walking, a sight to behold caught the hyena's attention. Aigre in the corner surrounded by a sea of candles trying to battle them with her scythe, a set of alarm bells had begun to ring in the chimera's head. What was she doing out here by herself? Where were her sisters? Attacks failing for minutes on end, a counterstrike knocked the sea lion, or mermaid, rather, onto her currently human knees. Loud sniffles hitting the beach, shouts soon joined the party.

"Owie, meanies!!" Aigre wailed.

Knowing he could not stand by and watch Aigre get hurt, the soldier the box of matches do the talking. Candles set ablaze and melting one after another, the young mermaid in rags let out another deep throated wail. Glasses stained from the frame, her shouts continued.

"Sissie, sisser! Come back, I'm scared!" Aigre wailed.

Hearing Aigre continue to cry, the soldier bowed an apology. Had lighting the candles only made things worse? Maybe he should go find her sisters before looking for Annapausis. Aigre wiping her glasses dry as tears continued to fall, another set of words blurted themselves out.

"Sissie, sisser, return to the surface already!" Aigre wailed once more.

Apology falling on blind eyes, the soldier removed his diving equipment from the satchel behind him. He supposed since he was going underwater anyway, he could pass long the message to Bain and Kali their sister wanted them back. Placing his gloved hands in front of him, the soldier signed the word sister, and get on public display. But, his wordless language did not go through.

Seeing a look of confusion on Aigre's face, the chimera waved the white flag. He supposed if she did not understand sign language, he would have to find a different method to wordlessly communicate with her in the future. Damaged oxygen tank with tape over the holes soon behind him, his mind soon synched with his diving soon as he jumped into the seabed in front of him.

But, as he had dropped downward into the Elton Trench, a busy world awaited him. Bain, Kali, Vidame, Domini and the blond diver boy destroying candles together in unison, the early adult attempted with all his might to have the diving suit swim around him. Such was an impossibility to be had, for sure, as his oxygen tank brushed against one of the penguin chimera's feathered downs. Angry eyes soon on him, the dire straits were calling him back.

Feeling a stupid metal box brush up against her backside, Vidame's blood boiled to a medium rare. How dare this rich Fatui bump into her. Who did he think he was, coming back to the Elton Trench after repeatedly telling him he wasn't welcome here? These candles, they were definitely his fault. He was just asking for it, at this point. If he keeps coming back down here unwanted, she'll whip out her scythe on this rich loser.

Hearing that stupid oxygen tank press against his sister's back, Domini saw red. This rich Fatui, he aught to know by now he's not welcome anywhere near here. Hadn't he learned by now the oceans weren't a place for the high Mora society? He needed to get out of here this instant, or his oxygen tank was going to get it.

"I thought we told you our peace treaty is over, Ritchie Rich!" Vidame shouted. "Get out of here!" Domini soon added his voice to the mix.

"You're practically asking us to attack you now!" Domini screamed at the top of his gills. Whirring up his chainwhip, he let out a shout. "Reeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!" But, another voice soon came to the rescue.

"Domini, what are you doing?" Bain asked in an irritated tone. "Stop that. Put that away!"

"Come on, leave him alone, he's just passing through, I think," Kali added. "Stop doing that or, um, those candles will suck in your negative energy and get stronger, or something."

Penguin duo firing glares Siorc's way, the soldier held back the urge to fire glares back at them. What were these two's problem with him? How many times were they going to come after him for being what he wasn't? He was not rich. He was getting quite tired of their aggravating accusations. But, he knew defending himself with words would be a waste of time. There was no way they would listen to anything he had to say. But, as his thoughts kept going, shouts had come his way.

"Whatever!" Vidame shouted. "Go on through!"

Granted access to move forward, the soldier had his automatic swimsuit thrust him towards Kali tapping her on her sea lion shoulder, the early adult looked into her eyes. Look of confusion upon her face, the chimera tilted his head. Did his tap not register? Maybe he had poked her too hard. He would need to apologize if such were the case.

Feeling, what was his name, Showk, tap her on the shoulder, Kali turned to faced the Fatui. What did Showk want? It was quite rude of him to tap her like that. But, she supposed it was something rather important. Giving the young man eye contact, she puffed out a sigh, for a moment.

"Um, yes?" Kali asked. "What do you want from me?"

Hearing a slight wave of irritation in Kali's voice, the early adult's knees shook with a fervor. Were sea lion shoulders more sensitive than human ones? He would definitely need to roll out an apology. Writing he was sorry on the water, the chimera took a deep breath, for a moment. Aigre's name written upon the water, as well, Bain soon added herself into the conversation.

"We'll go back to the surface soon," Bain responded. But, her face grew dark, for a moment. "Aigre didn't wander off, did she?"

Shaking his head, the soldier could see a wave of relief wash over Bain, in an instant. Hearing her say she was finally listening for a change, more chaos broke out in the background. Penguin duo soon ordering the blond diver boy to head off to Chemin de L'Espoir and deal with the candles there, the soldier held back the urge to roll his eyes. Who did they think they were ordering him around? But, a surprising response dropped out from his lips.

"Understood," the blond diver responded.

Diver boy heading in the same direction he was, the early adult watched in silence as the young man had begun vanquishing the sea lit candles in the area. Seeing such, the chimera could not help but feel a similarity between he and the diver. Diverging away from him as the young man swam off faster, the soldier kept chugging along.

Moving forward through the area, the chimera kept his eyes open. Annapausis, what could be hiding within this area? Pushing through the northern area within the western parts of the trench, the soldier braced himself. With every step forward, he was one centimeter closer to the area.

Reaching the end of the area, a peculiar light blue wall stood in front of the soldier. Seeing such, the hyena tilted his head. What was this strange barrier in front of him? Poking his gloves through, a brand new discovery had quickly been made. Had the barricade been made out of water? Taking a deep breath, the soldier pushed himself through it.

Finding himself in a place unknown to him, the early adult whiffed up an extremely rancid scent. Nostrils burning with every given second, the soldier could feel his chest grow tighter, and tighter as the stench only got worse. Breath dying out, the chimera could feel himself fall backwards onto the ground beneath him. Consciousness slipping away, one final thought boomeranged around him.

What was that awful smell?

***

"Ribbit, ribbit, what was that?
I heard a loud noise!
Blast! Zoom, off I go! What in the
Blazes is this? A visitor?
I heard someone come through
The wall, croak!

Ribbit, ribbit, oh no!
I'm in my other form.
Blast! My poisons, there they go!
Boom. They're in the air now, oh, no.
I didn't mean to set
Those off!

Ribbit, ribbit, the stranger
Is falling, oh no,
Blast! What am I gonna do! What in the
Blazes am I gonna do!
If I leave leave through the wall,
Those penguins will yell at us to stay away like they always do!

Ribbit, ribbit, oh no.
I've gone and done it again! Is he dead?
Blast! Did I kill him?
Blazes! These poisons!
I need to control my transformations, croak!
This can't be happening!"

Coming to the next morning, unknown faces appeared in the soldier's dazed field of vision. Blood red diamond shaped eyes staring at him for minutes on end next to a set of bright yellow eyes, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Who were these people? Why were they staring at him?

"Sorry, that was us, ribbit," the stranger admitted, throat croaking. "You okay, do ya need a toadstool?" But, the second person added their voice to the mix.

"Zinn, no, they don't need a toadstool! Those are mushrooms!" the other person exclaimed. "Right, anyhow, apologies, our poisons hit the air. You good?"

Sitting himself upward on the pavement, the hyena nodded. Rancid scent on the air nowhere to be found, the soldier observed the two strangers in front of him, for a moment. Standing to the left had been a tall person with bright green frog's legs with black patches on them and warty frog hands to match. Grey shirt covering up their torso, the hyena studied their eyes for the second time. Blood red eyes with diamond shaped pupils, and two dotted beauty marks underneath their left eye, the chimera focused his attention on their hair. Short, slightly slicked back grey hair that went slightly below their ears with very little blue remaining on a loos antenna on the top, the soldier could not help but wonder. Could frogs even breathe underwater? Pushing such thoughts aside, he turned his attention towards the other stranger.

Standing to the right had been a tall alligator person with slightly long light blue hair that went down to about their neck. Scalp completely grey, the soldier could not help but wonder. How old were these two? Were they older people with appearance of the youthful? But, he supposed he had seen young people with silver, grey and white hair all the time. Yellow alligator eyes that looked sharp and strange looking apron covering up the front side of their body, the chimera ended his examination of the party of two in front of him. Turning his head towards the area, his observations continued.

Finding himself in a strange place with no water present anywhere except high above, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. How much deeper had the water been down here in comparison to the Elton Trench? Had everything worked differently in Annapausis? Seeing a peculiar looking castle in the distance, even more questions arose inside him. Had he stumbled upon a kingdom? But, his thoughts were soon cut short by the person proclaimed Zinn.

"So, what brings ya here, croak?" Zinn asked, ribbeting. "Did ya hop along here by accident?"

Hearing Zinn's question, the chimera could not help but wonder. Would it be alright if he told these two what his mission was? Turning his head towards the right and left, the hyena removed a small notebook from deep within his satchel. Writing down his mission, the chimera pointed to the words on the paper, but looks of confusion soon filled the duo's faces.

"What are ya trying ta show us? We can't read!" Zinn exclaimed, croaking. "Ya gonna havta pull off the wart 'n just tell Peltro and me watchya tryin' to say directly, ribbit!" But, the one named Peltro soon spoke up.

"What do you mean I can't read?!" Pelto exclaimed in a shouty tone. "I can so read!"

"Them fortune drawings don't count, ribbit!" Zinn retaliated.

Duo fighting amongst themselves about the topic of literacy, the early adult could feel a vein pop inside him. How annoying, were these two going to be yet another thorn in his side? He didn't have time for this, every single moment right now was a waste of his time. Clapping his gloves together in a loud manner, eyes were soon on him.

Pointing at his sunflower hairpins, the early adult swung his hands as if they were a sword. Repeating the action for minutes on end, the chimera kept going. Would this get his point across without speaking? The soldier had hoped so. He was not about to use his voice on another group of annoying people.

Seeing this stranger dude point at that sunflower charm on their head and swing around some invisible sword, Zinn pondered for a moment. Were they asking about that legendary sword so many people sought after but failed to reach because it did not accept them? So, they were another one of those people. They see. They supposed they could help them out until they figured it out on their own the sword was inaccessible. Maybe it should bring up the sunflowers instead.

Seeing the feminine looking person pointing at the sunflower in their hair, Peltro stroked its clawed hand on its chin. Were they asking about the robotic sunflowers? It supposed it wouldn't mind guiding them to Mary Anne's house if they needed some. But, it knew Zinn would say the opposite of what it was about to say. Maybe it should bring up the sword instead.

"Oh, I see what yer croaking. Them robotic sunflowers, aye?" Zinn asked. "Sure, Mary-Ann probably won't mind if ya gather some."

"The legendary sword?" Peltro asked. "Guess we could go with you to get it. But, in order to continue onward to the castle, we'll have to solve puzzles to unlock the corridor."

Hearing Peltro mention puzzles, the soldier scratched his head. Why did they have to do something so convoluted to unlock a castle just to push forward? But, he supposed he had no choice but to go along with whatever it was he had to go to get further in. Giving the group a nod, the first puzzle had soon been reached.

Taken to a strange red totem, the sticky frog hand touched an invisible button. Tiny circular water particles around on the palace grounds, a message beamed in the sky informing everyone to collect the Hydro particles in the allocated amount of time, the early adult was off to the races.

Particles making a strange noise once collected, the chimera kept running. Seeing numbers on his wrist increase by one as more had been taken from the ground, the hyena kept the sprint going. Countdown dropping swifter with every given second, the early adult accelerated his sprint.

Final particle gathered, the early adult let out a deep huff. Running was a cardiovascular exercise, indeed. Large yellow banner in the sky proclaiming the challenge had been completed, the duo in front of him stepped forward towards the next order, the group had begun to head towards the east.

Challenges not worthy of such of word requiring him to defeat slimes within the time limit, barely anything mattered for the next few minutes as the group cruised through the eastern pathway. Multiple battles finished in mere moments of each other, the group headed west.

Heading off towards the western path, the next challenge soon awaited them. Water particles returning with a vengeance, the soldier had begun to run at lightning speed. Every single one collected after thirty seconds, the challenge had soon been conquered, but soon, easy street would become difficult avenue.

Finding a peculiar puzzle stretching from end to end requiring barrels to be blown up everywhere, the soldier's eyes opened wide. Explode barrels within the time limit? No way. How was he supposed to accomplish something like that? He had no tools at his disposal that could destroy any sort of explosive.

Watching as Zinn ran around the area kicking the barrel's flints with their sticky frog legs, the early adult's jaw dropped open. What in the world was this frog person doing, kicking the exploding barrels? Wouldn't that bring harm to them? The soldier did not know what this stranger could possibly be thinking? How reckless of them.

Frog person continuing to destroy barrels with their feet, the soldier walked eight steps back. Peltro's alligator tail swinging at explosives in the corner, as well, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. These two were incredibly reckless. Didn't they care at all about their safety? Party of two continuing along with their rampage, the soldier stepped towards one single barrel.

Striking a match against the sand paper, the soldier tossed down the flammable stick upon the explosive flint in the corner. Running off as the barrel blew into smithereens, everything was engulfed in a world of white for a momentary period of time. But, as the final explosive breathed its final nonexistent moment, it was now argument o'clock. Whatever a clock was, such object definitely did not exist.

"Are you using your frog's legs to destroy those barrels again?!" Zinn asked in an exclamatory tone. "Just because those sorts of things don't harm you, doesn't mean you should put yourself at risk!"

"Oh? And yer usin' yer tail, ribbit," Zinn fired back. "Look who's croaking!"

"Fine, you got me," Peltro responded almost immediately. "Whatever. Time to move on."

The early adult could feel his blood boil. Why were these two fighting again? This duo argued way too much and far too often. But, the chimera kept himself quiet. He supposed, all siblings argued with one another. Even in his stolen childhood, he would sometimes get into small wordless squabbles with Hase.

Peltro soon stating they would have to summon the princess and her bubbles before continuing, a long water particle chain requiring one-hundred-twenty-five balls be collected within a timeframe of seven minutes, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. He had to collect how many Hydro particles now? But, he knew he couldn't complain, he had to gather them.

Hydro particles stretching throughout the area from every angle and direction, the soldier had begun running. Hearing a peculiar sound as the first ten were gathered, the early adult let out a pant. Was it just him, or had the particles required far more effort than the last set? But, he knew he couldn't give up. He had to keep going.

Next ten soon collected, the early adult had been forced to step upon a sea of aquatic platforms. Blue crystalline device glaring at him, and other particles floating around in the air doing nothing, the hyena could not help but wonder. Was the only way to continue to turn it on? Tapping the crystal with his gloved palms, a new pathway emerged.

Twenty more particles soon collected, a broken building in the corner awaited the soldier. Spotting multiple particles laying in wait in the corner, the early adult attempted with any will that remained to brave through the peculiar water walkway. Reaching the halfway point, ten more tokens had been gathered into the particle collection.

Large bubbles soon popping up in certain corners around the area, the soldier gazed at the world around him. How many more would have to show up in order to get the princess in attendance? He supposed he would have to collect the rest of the particles to find out. Ten more soon added to the fray, Only have remained.

Group of twenty particles locked behind some sort of strange device exuding a yellow light, the soldier dashed off towards the corner. Finding a block of purple energy, the number on his wrist soon read eighty of one-hundred-twenty five. Dashing off towards the eastern path, the next set soon awaited him.

Particles locked behind another device once more, the soldier let out a sigh. Who put the puzzle pieces behind a locked door? Machine soon vanquished and particle counter reaching one-hundred, the final countdown to reach the last number was upon the soldier. Dashing off towards the left, ten more had been obtained.

Bubbles appearing in spots near a small stone area in the corner, the final fifteen Hydro particles had soon been collected. Princess soon in attendance as a young woman with a watery appearance and a boar also made out of the same materials, a wave of questions flowed through the chimera.

This young water woman and the boar next to her, were they the characters from the boar princess? But, the soldier snapped himself out of it. That couldn't have been it. Stories weren't real. There was no way they could ever come to life. Bubble soon appearing next to her, Zinn and Peltro stepped forward.

Told that in order to continue onward into the castle they had to jump into the bubble and fix some things in the waters above, the early adult could feel himself shake, for a moment. Great, there was more things he had to fix. Why did he have to do all of this just to unlock the castle? But, he supposed he shouldn't be complaining. Such action was not allowed for him whatsoever.

Group of three soon leaping into a bubble, a secluded area with multiple fast currents underwater awaited the soldier. But, the chimera tilted his head. If the body of water was above and Annapausis was below, just how deep down was the castle, exactly? But, the chimera supposed such did not have any sort of answer. He needed to continue onward.

Seeing an array of complicated looking hole like devices around the area, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Would he have to fix those rings in order to continue onward to the castle? How strange; they did not look broken in any possible way. But, maybe they were missing something important. Zinn soon turning towards him, they spoke up first.

"Ya gotta get the devices into da correct holes, ribbit," Zinn said, croaking. But, Peltro soon interrupted.

"They're this way. It's time to swim over to them," Peltro said, swimming off towards the machine.

"Yo, don't interrupt me!" Zinn shouted, but their screams fell on deaf ears.

Brought towards a blue crystal, a set of instructions had come the soldier's way. Informed he would have to light it up until it was the correct color, the soldier could feel the pressure rising within him. Tapping the crystal with his hand, it had soon shone a bright red color. But, such had not been correct.

Pressing the object again, the crystal had soon glowed an orange color. But, such had not been correct, either. Tapping the object until it had been a shade of yellow, the sound of something unlocking in the distance overtook the area. Zinn and Peltro vanquishing geysers around them, the soldier dragged a ball into the strange rings. First ring taken care of, the group soon headed east. But, a strange challenge soon awaited him.

Group of peculiar puffballs popping up with the demand of destroying all of them after only one attack, the early adult could feel a wave of confusion flow through him. He had to do what now? What did this have to do with dropping a ball back into its hole? How incredibly strange, this did not feel in place at all.

"That's strange, I don't ever recall this puzzle being here before," Peltro commented. "How did it get here?"

Figuring getting rid of the puffballs would be as simple as launching the jellyfish explosive, the hyena threw down such object towards the obstacles. Everything going boom after one singular attack, the party of three had begun to head towards the eastern side. Puzzles galore everywhere the eye could see, multiple comments about how they should not have been here kept filling up the area.

"The princess musta set up all these puzzles, I bet!" Zinn exclaimed in a delayed reaction.

All puzzles in the area done, Zinn and Peltro switched on the crystals in the corner. Dragging the next ball into its ring house, another sea of puffballs soon awaited him. Objects destroyed in a short moment, the party of two sped up along on the waters in front of them. Discovering a crystal locked behind a cage, monsters soon arose from the ashes.

But, the battle had been over before the hyena could even blink. Monsters stamped to death with the kiss of frog, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Just how potent were Zinn's poisons? He supposed he never wanted to find out. Peltro vanquishing lesser monsters along the pathway with its alligator tail, as well, the early adult could feel a wave of uselessness flow through him.

Final crystal soon broken, the sound of a seal undoing itself echoed upon the area. Zinn speedily dropping down the world down below, Peltro soon followed after them. Dropping down to the final floor as well, the early adult attempted to catch up with the duo. What was the rush? Surely, the castle wasn't going anywhere. Frog person only getting faster as the seconds unraveled, a shout had come their way.

"It's time to visit Mary-Ann, ribbit!" Zinn shouted, running faster.

"Slow down, bucko!" Peltro exclaimed chasing after Zinn.

"This is time sensitive, ya know!" Zinn fired back. "She'll close the gates for who knows how long with don't hurry and hop on along!"

The hyena let out a groan as he caught up with the party of two. Why were they always arguing with one another? Couldn't they just get along? Soon reaching the castle, the early adult prepared himself for anything. The legendary sword, here he comes. It would soon be upon him to collect, for sure.

But, as the soldier had begun to step through the palace, the rancid scent soon returned. World around him suddenly becoming pitch black, a wave of panic flowed through the chimera. Who turned off the lights? But, as the stench only got worse, an intense wave of dizziness flowed through him, feeling himself fall backwards as the air only continued to grow noxious in the nothing world of darkness around him, the early adult's eyes fluttered closed unconsciousness took him away.

Where had all this gas come from?

***

"Looks like I'm stuck in yet another
Odd place again. I feel like I'm looping the same moments
Over and over again.
Perhaps I am dreaming. That has to be
It. I'm dreaming. Yes, I'm dreaming.
No, maybe those noxious
Gases are messing with my brain.

Ah, yes, that has to be it. Surely.
Guess I inhaled too much poisonous
Air. Yes, I'm just
Imagining things. Just like that time I had been in
Never-ending monotonous loop.

Ah, yes, this is simply my imagination.
No way am I looping around in the same corridors over and over again.
Doubt that is even possible.

All I need to do is keep
Going. Keep moving
And keep trying.
I'm sure I will find the exit eventually.
Now, the sword, it shall be upon me.

Or, so I think. I cannot
Verify if this is the right path.
Every time, I soon
Return back to exactly where I started.

Ah, back here again. Am I looping?
No, this is just my imagination.
Don't let my thoughts get the best of me.

Open my eyes, and try the path again. I could
Very much be stuck here until I
Enter the right path. Right, keep going, so I don't
Return to the same spot again. Keep moving."

Coming to the next morning, the hyena gazed around the area in a daze. Where was was he, how did he get here? But, he soon gained awareness of what was around him. Right, he was in some sort of castle in Annapausis and a rancid scent knocked him out. How could he forget such a fact? Zinn and Peltro standing in the corner gazing at him, unwanted words had come his way.

"You sure sleep a lot, ribbit!" Zinn said, croaking.

"They're human, Zinn," Peltro said to Zinn. "You know that species needs a lot more sleep than we do."

The chimera will let out a sigh. Did these two assume he was a normal human being going on some sort of adventure? He supposed it was best to not tell them that he was a hyena chimera. The less they knew about him, the better. He would likely never see this duo again, anyway.

"Whatevs. It's time to find the legendary sword ribbit!" Zinn exclaimed. "Let's hop to it!"

Soon finding themselves in a strange room with a very long corridor, the early adult could not help but feel a wave of unease. Was it just his imagination, or did something feel incredibly off and unusual about the hallways he had found himself in? But the soldier snapped himself out of such thinking. There was nothing unusual here. He had to get moving.

Finding a series of peculiar puzzles with many complicated answers seeded together into one long set of instructions, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What did lighting elemental totems have anything to do with the mission at hand? This had nothing to do with the legendary sword whatsoever.

Heading north for quite awhile, the long empty corridor of nothing swallowed the party of three up for hours on end. But as they reached another room, a peculiar land bound sea angel filled to the brim with bright colors patrolled around the area like it was its sworn duty. Creature soon getting on the offensive, everyone had begun to fight to the best of their ability.

But, such fight was over before it could even begin. Zinn's frog hands giving the wart kiss of doom upon the sea angel's body, the early adult shook with a fervor. Warts were the most powerful weapon of all time, for sure. He would never be able to sleep at night if were ever to find himself with such froggy lumps on him, for sure.

But, after passing through another set of corridors, a familiar set of instructions broke the barriers around him. Sea of candles laid out on the pathway demanding to be lit, the soldier let out a sigh as he removed the box of matches from the satchel in front of him. This again? How could this puzzle have returned already? The world was looping.

Sea of over fifty candles lit up one after another, the early adult could feel a wave of unease. Was it just him, or had the atmosphere within the corridor gotten thicker? He couldn't help but notice something was continuously off about the place in front of him. But, the chimera pushed such thoughts aside. He had to have been overthinking it. There was nothing wrong here.

Moving onward to a room with an electric seahorse, the early adult's heart skip five beats. There was such a terrifying creature here? If it were to remain here, it would electrocute all the waters, for sure. Preparing himself for battle, the soldier prepared to summon a flower fiend.

But, such was not necessary in the slightest. Peltro firing off a mysterious power, the hyena blinked. What did the alligator person just do? Did he miss it when he blinked? He supposed such had to have been the case. He ought to pay closer attention next time it were to fight.

Finding himself in another corridor with a sea of candles, the soldier could feel a wave of unease. Where in the world had all these foreign objects come from? Something was wrong here, for sure. Everything soon lit up, a hole soon opened up from underneath him in seconds. Feeling himself drop downward, doom loomed over the hyena.

But, the third savior would soon present itself.

Strangely tall sunflowers grabbing a hold of him and brining him back upward onto the correct pathway, the early adult gazed downward at the hole he had jus been removed from. The plants he had sworn off saved him? He supposed he owed them at least a sense of gratitude, for the time being.

Reaching the third floor, another sea of candles awaited the hyena seeing such once again, the early adult placed his finger on his chin. Why were there so many candles here? Something about them felt incredibly unnatural. There was no way they belonged here whatsoever. Lighting them all up, they soon dissolved into a puddle of wax.

Reaching the end of the corridor in some sort of religious looking space, a ring of water dragged the soldier in. Becoming nothing but a fast ball of water for many seconds, the early adult soon found himself back at the beginning of the corridor. Everything looking exactly the same, the soldier tilted his head. How did he end up back here again? Where was the sword? Zinn and Peltro quickly noticing as well, the two turned towards each other.

"We're back here again, ribbit?" Zinn asked, confused. "Where's the sword?"

"You should have made a map!" Peltro fired back.

"I can't write!" Zinn fired back. "Ya should make a map!"

"You know I can't write, either!" Peltro screamed, in an angry tone.

Hearing the party of two argue back and forth with one another, the early adult swore multiple of his blood vessels inside his shark brain would pop one after another. Why couldn't these just get along and work together without arguing with each other? Absolutely ridiculous. What would fighting do? It wasn't going to get anyone anywhere. He needed to put a stop to this nonsense once and for all.

"Stop fighting!" Siorc shouted, irritated. But, his screams were far quieter than they should have been. Raising his voice he soon repeated himself. "Enough already, you two. Stop arguing." Duo snapping out of it, apologies tied themselves up into a bow.

"Whoops, sorry, got heated there for a sec," Zinn said, rubbing their frog hand across their cheek. "Let's go grab that sword, ribbit."

"Zinn, that's hardly an apology!" Peltro exclaimed, but it stopped itself. Right, stop arguing. "Whatever." He then turned towards the stranger. "Anyhow, sorry. I'll stop arguing with them." It then turned around to face the opposite direction. "Maybe."

Returning back to the entrance, everything in the corridor had been exactly the same. Puzzles not changing, and being solved in the exact same way, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had he been in some sort of loop? He could not help but feel a major sense of dejavu flowing through him.

Same corridor once again filled with a sea of candles, the soldier lit the match with quick precision. Wax melting into a puddle, the walk continued. Electric seahorse awaiting him in the same corridor as last time, defeat came for it at the exact same moment as last time. Religious looking area revisited as well, the same water ring was in the same spot as before.

Finding himself back in the first area they had come to, Zinn and Peltro argued about maps and literacy once more. Hearing such, a wave of anger flowed through him. Why were they arguing again? Yelling the same thing a second time, their fight had soon been halted. Continuing onward to the corridor again, the early adult could not help but notice a peculiarity as the round fired itself up.

Finding more candles upon the pathway than last time, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Was it just his imagination, or with each and every attempt to walk through the corridor there had been more candles? How did more of these get here? Someone had to have been pulling the strings.

Same hole in the floor pushing him downward and same sunflowers bringing him back up to the surface, confusion continued to paint the chimera a new shade of purple. He could not help but sense a wave of dejavu in him. Hadn't he just done this? Something was off, for sure.

Seahorse defeated once more, but no sword of any kind to speak of, the same church like room had been reached once more. Portal tossing them back to the entrance, the frog and alligator had been right back at it with their arguments with the same points as before. Covering his ears as their fight kept blasting through him, the fourth round had begun.

Fourth walkthrough the same as the third, the chimera could not help but feel a wave of dejavu flow through him. Hadn't he already gone through here before? Same old song and dance taking over, an Abyss Mage soon let out a chant. Hadn't he fought one of these around the corridor already? How strange. Something wasn't right.

No sword located once again, the same argument as before had been whipped out between Zinn and Peltro. Fight eventually coming to an end after some sort of shout, the party of three continued through the labyrinth once more. Fifth attempt the same as ever, nothing out of the ordinary had occurred throughout the corridor.

Fighting another army of abyss mages, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of dejavu flow through him. Hadn't he already fought these monsters before? He couldn't help but feel he had already done this over and over again countless times. Candles lit as well, and sea angel monster soon fought, the group kept on moving long.

Falling through the same hole as the same candles were lit and the same sunflowers rescued him, the hyena blinked. He supposed he owed them a sense of gratitude, for the time being. Ghastly foreign objects all lit, and Abyss Mages soon fought once more, no sword awaited him.

Returning back to the beginning the frog and alligator people soon argued with one another about not being able to write. Same scream snapping them out of it, the sixth loop soon began. Everything almost exactly the same with no sword to speak of, the hyena tapped the side of his temple. What was with this constant feeling of dejavu washing over him?

Going through the same corridor solving the same puzzles and monsters once again and not coming across the sword as the seventh loop had been completed, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was the legendary sword even real anymore? Maybe all of this was just a nightmare. There was no way anything in front of him was reality.

Argument playing out again, the soldier let out a sigh. Going through the corridor for the eighth time, the feeling of dejavu swallowed the soldier whole. Same puzzles Abyss Mages and candles conquered once again, and no sword found once again, the entrance had been looped back to. But, as the room devoured him, a realization had come over him.

The corridor, it was nothing more than a big circle, a trap. Something to keep the people who entered into it looping around forever. Ideas flowing through him, the soldier had come to the ultimate conclusion. He knew now. The answer to the puzzle, the way to get the legendary sword, move onward to Mary-Ann's house, get out of here.

Moving backwards through the labyrinth as the way to go.

Turning his heels towards the exit instead of the entrance, the early adult prepared himself. Yes, going through the corridor in the opposite way, that had to unlock the sword from its looping imprisonment. Zinn and Peltro tilting their heads, the early adult mouthed the word reverse in silence. Surely, they would understand what he's trying to do. Group of two soon grasping such, words had come his way.

"Whaaat yer sayin' we gotta head through here in reverse?" Zinn asked. "Sure dat sounds reasonable. Hop on to that, ribbit."

"Weird idea, but I don't see why it wouldn't work," Peltro said. "Well, go on, and lead the way."

Zinn and Peltro stepping behind him, the soldier walked through the exit door. Strange church corridor passed through, the soldier swore he could feel something peculiar loom through the area as his backwards walk continued onward like it was the world's business. But, the chimera remained focused. He had to keep going, or the loop would return.

Soon returning to the corridor with the monsters, a peculiar looking golden sword appeared in the center of a pool of water. Stepping towards it, the early adult grabbed the hilt like his life depended on it. Weapon soon dislodged from the area, cheers filled the room.

But, such celebrations were dead in the water as a sea horse of electrical properties had summoned itself from nowhere. Creature mean, lean and an electrifying machine, the early adult attempted to flow down a flower friend. As he attempted to do so, however, the noxious, rancid scent flowed through the area.

Area around him becoming black in a matter of moments, the soldier swore that any second now, he would return to the world of unconsciousness. Blinking out of existence, for a moment, the land of darkness knocked on the door. But, when the hyena came to, a sight to behold caught the chimera's attention. Bed of sunflowers holding him hostage, a peculiar unrecognizable form of Zinn and Peltro took the stage. World of blackness quickly returning, the early adult closed his eyes.

Or, so the soldier thought. Everything soon returning to normal as the seahorse had been vanquished, the soldier blinked. Was he dreaming just now? What had happened to the monstrosities he had just witnessed? Maybe he had just imagined everything just now. Sunflowers letting go of him, Zinn stepped towards the soldier.

"Those sunflowers saved you multiple times in this labyrinth," Zinn said, pointing at the plants. "Ya better thank them for their service, croak!"

Gazing at the sunflowers, the soldier supposed he was eternally grateful to the plants for saving him. True door soon opening up, the real labyrinth had soon opened up in front of everyone. Finding a strange glass wall with a hole in it as the group looped around, everyone soon stepped through.

Coming across a beautiful house surrounded by nothing but nature, and sunflowers, the early adult blinked. What a lovely house. What was it doing all the way deep inside the corridors of a castle? But, he supposed he would never have an answer to such a thing. There was no way to find out why someone chose such a way of construction.

Stepping through the walkway, the soldier could not help but feel a thick atmosphere present throughout the whole area. Zinn and Peltro greeting a woman referred to as Mary-Ann with light blue hair and almost aquatic looking eyes, the early adult could feel his heart skip a beat at the next round of information coming his way.

Mary-Ann informing everyone someone had invaded her home, the early adult could feel his entire body sink into the ocean. Why would someone trespass onto someone's home with malicious intent? Some people would do anything to cause problems. Zinn and Peltro agreeing to help find the invader, the ground had begun investigating Heading through the garden for minutes on end, a very predictable duo made their anonymous presence known.

Hooded strangers sitting around the owner's home as if they owned the place caressing sunflowers, the early adult held back the urge to scream. Why were the hooded strangers in someone else's home? This was a step too far. Surely, they had to have known the rules of trespassing. But, a surprise soon presented itself to the audience of no one.

"Kelebek, is that you?" Zinn asked.

"And Izzet, too?" Peltro asked.

Gust of wind coming out of nowhere blowing the hooded stranger's head covering's off, a mask over the eyes had soon come flying off, too. Faces revealing themselves, the early adult's jaw dropped open. Was the Anemo Archon hiding somewhere in the garden? He knew such was definitely not the case, but it felt like it was, as the moment. Angry exposed eyes looking the frog and alligator's way, the soldier quickly observed the new faces.

Standing to the left with a look of fury on their face had been a young looking gazelle woman with light brown skin. Spiky teal hair, forty lashes, and eyes the same color as the curtain to match, the soldier could not help but sense this great feeling of evil from this person. Gazelle horns looking ready to cut someone, and pure black hooded outfit looking ready to fall off, he turned to the next person.

Standing to the right had been a young gazelle man with messy turquoise hair pulled back into a short ponytail, and eyes to match. Light brown skin and pitch black hood the person was looking ready to pull over their gazelle horns, the soldier soon ended his examination. Something was not right about these people at all. Rage growing, their fists shook.

"How dare you reveal who we are to the enemy!" the one named Izzet said, pointing at Siorc.

"Oh, really now?" Peltro asked in a sarcastic tone. "So, you set down all those candles, I take it?" Without a moment's hesitation, the two barked back.

"Yes, it was you who did it!" Kelebek shouted. "Oneself set the candles!"

"Nyahaha, who else could it have been besides us?" Izzet added. "But, we've got one more up our sleeves!" Petting a big candle with a tail, they smirked as Kelebek tagged oneself into the ring.

"You hope he enjoys fighting this pet!" Kelebek exclaimed. As one said such, the gazelles vanished.

Large waxy candle practically the size of six windmills in Mondstadt stacked up against one another, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. How was he supposed to fight such a large creature? He was going to lose, guaranteed. Human hand soon becoming a hyena claw, the early adult slashed forward.

But, such proved to be difficult for minutes on end. Creature telling everyone submit their mortal planes to the abyss and give themselves up, the soldier would not falter. No way, he wasn't about to do such a thing. Never, not in a million years. Claws continuing onward with their rampage, the one sided fight continued.

But, one side soon became two. Zinn's slimy frog hands doing their duty, and Peltro's spiky alligator tail adding itself to the mix, the candle had begun melting far faster than the soldier could keep up with. Enemy getting tinier with every given second, only a little bit of the creature remained.

Final swipe from his hyena claws allowing for an opening, Zinn's frog's legs provided the final blow. Abyssal light source gone for good as it removed itself from its afterlife, the no longer hooded strangers returned to the battlefield for a brief moment, fingers pointed at the chimera, a predictable shout had come his way.

"We will get our revenge!" Izzet shouted, pointed.

Villains exiting the area, a question had come the duo's way. One named Mary-Ann asking why Zinn and Peltro were visiting, the final order of operations had been presented. Peltro soon informing the woman he had come to pluck out his robotic sunflowers, permission was granted to do so, but immediate expulsion upon done had been said, as well.

Robotic sunflowers soon picked aplenty, his expulsion from Mary-Ann's house had been quick, but assured. Knowing he had to leave the area as soon as possible, a door had been placed towards the exit of the woman's house. Thrusted back towards the Elton Trench as if he had never gone anywhere, the soldier had the diving suit ascend him back to the surface, but a pesky fly soon awaited him. Earl sitting on the beach in the corner, he flapped his gums.

"There you are! I've been waiting for you!" Earl exclaimed. "That boss of yours asked me to get you and take you to Hotel Deboard. Let me take you there!"

Earl soon escorting him, the soldier could not help but wonder. The pesky penguin had come all this way just to get him? How strange. Aquabus taken, and court city soon returned to, the escort to the hotel lasted around thirty minutes. Agent soon grabbing the satchel off his back and yanking the diving equipment off of him, his dismissal was about to come his way.

"I do not know what took you so long, soldier, but good work," the Agent said. "Return to Snezhnaya right now. You're dismissed."

Dismissal granted, the hyena removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Highlighting the waypoint to the military barracks, the chimera closed his eyes. Reaching the soundproof room after fifteen minutes of walking, a sea of thoughts flowed through the chimera.

The hooded strangers, now that he knew their identities, would they be more violent towards him? He knew such a possibility was about to come his way. He needed to proceed with caution going forward. But, such hadn't been the only set of inquiries flowing through him. Walking around in a circle, his thoughts continued.

The flowers and vines, why did they save him? Nature and he were on a break, how could they still feel something for him after his constant could shoulder over them? But, he supposed he had been grateful that they had come to his rescue. Maybe he would warm back up to them again.

Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the chimera removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses set aside, the hyena closed his eyes. But, as the world of sleep prepared to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

He and flowers might be on speaking terms again.

Chapter 10: Court Case 2: Doppelgangers on the Loose

Chapter Text

"For real, Your Majesty?
Looks like she wants me to
Enter that
Underground city once again I am
Very confused.
Everything repeats.

Cannot help but feel this will not
End well, while people
No longer gaze at me, I
Doubt they have forgotten I am a member of the Fatui.
Really, this won't
Even help put me in the good graces of the

Archon. She probably would rather
Get me thrown in the fortress of Meropide.
And, if I make even one wrong move,
I know yet another trial awaits me.
No way will

I be found innocent this time.

As the entire country now knows
My identity.

Fleuve Cendre, what awaits me this time?
Everyone will give me ridiculous orders,
Everyone will demand fish steak,
Look, Your Majesty,
I am certain that this will do
Nothing. My reputation will never
Get any better. Once labelled

A criminal, always a criminal.

Listen, the nation of Justice,
Is always talking.
Talking, chattering, looking.
To be honest, I know people are
Lauding for my downfall.
Each and every one of those are

Cooing at the prospect
Of my eventual arrest.
Nothing will convince me going to the
Fleuve Cendre, the
Underground City will
Stop anyone from thinking poorly of me.
Especially after all that's been happening.
Doubt flows through me.

However, I cannot question anything.
Obviously, Her Majesty
Will kill me.

Will I be given some ridiculous tasks again?
I have to be open to anything.
Look for machine monsters again? On it.
Look for crates of something again? On it.

How many times I have to do this
Especially does not matter
Lend my hands and
Promise to assist.
I have to do my orders,
No matter what.
Get down underground,

Take the lead, listen to their
Heavy hitting problems,
End their suffering.

Perhaps, just maybe, this will
Open the door to good reputation,
Open the door to good graces
Returning. We shall see.

Keep on working,
Everyone is looking.
Everyone is watching.
People are staring.

Maybe this time,
Everything will end well.

I need to stay quiet,
Need to keep working.

Get everything everyone requests
Of me, no matter how
Out of the ordinary some requests may be.
Diligence is key.

Get ready for everything, get
Ready for absolutely
Anything. This
Could be the last chance, the
Eve of the downfall of Fontaine stationed Fatui
So, do everything accurately. I mustn't disappoint Her Majesty."

Dreaming had continued to be a tormenting cycle of never ending pain within the hyena's diplomatic Fatui life. The cycle would reverse itself back to zero, cancelling the ending and going back to the beginning each and every evening. The night before him would continue to burn the candle further, as well.

Before him had been a field of Lakelight Lillies. The flowers were blue, with the sense that they could have been crying. But, such had not been the only vegetation within the area. Spotting a large yellow willow tree floating above a rock, the the soldier turned his face towards the opposite direction. Nature and he were still not fully warmed up to one another again.

But the hyena quickly turned back towards the willow. The tree, why was it floating? He could not begin to fathom why such could have been the case. Seating himself upon the grass in a pretzel formation, the early adult gazed at the area around him. Just where had the dream world taken him to this time? He had never seen a willow tree anywhere within Teyvat, his subconscious, could it have taken him into another universe altogether?

Lifting himself upward, the early adult strolled upon the western path. Finding himself in a large forest with a large condensed ball of water in a lake in the corner, the hyena sauntered onward with the tiniest of smiles. Teyvat or not, wherever he was had a peaceful feel to it, for sure.

Nothing happening within the dream world for minutes on end, the early adult let out a blissful sigh. Peace was a beautiful feeling. Walking further upon the forest path, silence looped on repeat for dream minutes on end. Perhaps, just maybe, no tormenting events would occur in the not reality presented to him.

An astronomically incorrect assumption, on his part.

As the soldier kept his stroll going, a familiar pair of faces made themselves known within the land of the subconscious. Abyssal gazelles with their masks off, a sinister grin appeared on their dual faces. Seeing such, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. The two of them were up to no good, guaranteed.

Knowing that, if he were to get close to them, they would give him a world of pain, the soldier attempted to back away from the strangers. But, such had been an impossibility. Group of two teleporting in front of him within three dream seconds, their smirks had only grown wider.

"Meddler, his time of being well respected is over!" Kelebek exclaimed, hands in the air.

Hearing the sound of claws scratching across a nail filer, doom flowed through the soldier. Talons shimmering on the dream sky, unease cemented itself. Gazelle lunging themselves forward, the hyena's neck had been added to the equation. Nails sinking themselves in deep enough to slash fruit into nothing, the early adult swore he could feel his throat being carved into.

Feeling his dream breath become as shallow as a wading river, a sea of thoughts had begun to run down the stream. These villains, they were planning on doing something irreversible in the mortal, waking world. He had to put a stop to such before it could come into fruition. But, as he pondered such, another voice came into the picture.

"Nyahaha, you think you can stop us?" Izzet asked in a maniacal tone. "Think again, meddler." Rope soon in their hands, a sacrifice had been made to the weeping willow of the forest. 'Enjoy the show!"

"He hopes he likes being crispy!" Kelebek shouted in a maniacal tone.

Thick layer of rope holding him hostage upon the bark, the hyena squirmed in his seat. But, such attempts had been futile. Large glowing ball of fire entering the duo's hands, all of the dream world's energy roasted, toasted, cooked the soldier alive. Rope blazing brightly as well, everything around him was a pile of ashes. Uniform set ablaze as well, his chest had become charcoal. But, such had only been the beginning.

Gazelles soon snapping their fingers, the soldier had been airborne. Body floating towards the river in the corner, a set of anchors were chained upon the chimera's ankles. Water coming closer with every dream second, the early adult closed his eyes. He was doomed, done, finished, about to become seafood. Dropping down further into the lake as the moments sped themselves up, one final thought let itself out in his final dream moments.

He was doomed.

***

"What are those gazelles planning?
How much more do they plan on messing
And plotting against me?
There's no way I have meddled in all of their

Affairs. Whatever it is that they are attempting,
Really, it should just come to an end.
Everything they are doing,

They are truly planning something
Heinous. The time they were in the
Elton Trench trying to wipe it, do they

Still hold it against me
That I stopped such event from occurring?
Rage must run deep within them.
All and all, this cannot go on.
Now, I do not know what their
Goals may be, but
Each and every time they are against me.
Repercussions never face these
Strange individuals. Whatever they are

Planning, it is most certainly not a good thing.
Looks like while I was in
Annapausis, they might have done something.
No matter what orders I receive, they are always plotting.
No matter where I go, these two are always scheming.
I have to do something. But, there is
Nothing I can do while working.
Guess I will have to see if our paths cross, for the time being."

The sound of loud machines crashing into one another took over the skies of Snezhnaya. As the noses of floating rust buckets kept tapping to the beat, multiple Fatui soldiers shouted to Celestia above that the newly employed soldiers were irresponsible children. But, despite such complaints about, every soldier soon returned to their own work.

The explosive aircraft was more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially tormented slumber. Upon waking up for the morning, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. But, the chimera shook such off. There was no time to let the subconscious world eat away at him. Raising himself from the uncomfortable bed, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier placed his uniform over his layered shirts, another loud boom shook the steel walls hard enough to pierce a crack through the metal. Booms about only getting louder, the early adult walked towards the barricaded window, for a moment. But, the sight before him soured the bitterness into into toxins.

Aircraft noses falling off as an explosion took center stage, the early adult shook his head. Can't the people inside pilot? Whoever was in charge of hiring such people had made a mistake of the ages. Turning his attention away from the commotion, the soldier returned himself to getting ready. There was no reason to get himself distracted by the insignificant show outdoors.

Buttons in the correct holes, the hyena clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching blue stars in his hair and ears, a calming pulse radiated throughout the chimera's short body. But, such only lasted a brief moment as his thoughts had begun to cloud into a storm.

Walking around in a circle upon the icy cold floor, a sea of questions polluted the chimera's mind. The hooded gazelle duo, just what could they possibly be planning this time? He knew, whatever it could be that they had up their pitch black sleeves, he was going to be in trouble, for sure. He needed to remain cautious, no matter what.

Pushing such thoughts aside once more, the chimera hooked the Dendro Vision upon his uniform pants. Gazing at the Geo Delusion in the corner, the soldier placed his fingers towards the sinister orb. The delusion, should he finally make use of it? But, the hyena shook his head. Now was not the time to do so. It was too early for such.

Heelless shoes on, the soldier bit into his flavorless rations. Staring at the wall as his singular meal of the day was being devoured, the storm of thoughts swirled into a hurricane. The two gazelles from the unknown place known as the abyss, why did they always wish to mess with him? But, such thoughts were immediately cut off by a familiar racket.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march onward with a militaristic fervor, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. There was no more time to think, time had run out. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. It was time for his workday of anything to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be heading to the underground city in Fontaine to assist the less fortunate to remain with the good graces of the Hydro Archon." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate's arm. Being in good relations with the world's archons would only further Her Majesty's ventures.

The hyena jumped four steps back. He was returning to the Fleuve Cendre once again? There was no way he would be in the good graces of the Hydro Archon ever again. Such a feat was as impossible as drawing a perfect circle. His reputation within Fontaine was a lost cause, for sure.

The chimera backed two further steps away as the words good graces echoed in his inhuman eardrums. What good graces were even left? The Fatui, their reputation throughout all of Teyvat was already sour. It had to have already sunk to the lowest point within Fontaine, as well. There was no way this would improve anything, for sure.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you listening? You will be heading to the underground city of Fontaine to help the poor!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. "Stop standing around, and get a move on!"

The early adult flinched. Right, he was on the job right now, there was no time for thinking. Good reputation or not, his orders were absolute. He had to do as he was told, or Her Majesty would kill him, guaranteed. Turning towards the Agent, he placed his hand out in front of him.

"Yes, sir," the hyena responded autonomously. Good graces or lack thereof, he knew he had to get to work.

"Good. We're going, soldier," the Agent responded, but he soon continued. "Be cautious while walking around Fontaine, crime has been higher lately." Arm out in front of him, the masked Agent gripped the limb into a tight lock. Gripping prison as tight as a medical needle pricking deep, one thought ate the soldier alive as the escort towards Fontaine began.

What atrocities could possibly be occurring?

***

"Ah, that meddlesome fool!
Looks like, soon, he will not have any legs to stand on!
Letting down our seeds, he will soon be

Over, finished! Gone! This is what he get
For meddling with the affairs!

The mission we set out on!
Ehehehe, just he waits,
You will be victorious!
Victory for the spoils of war
Against the meddlers!
The spoils of war against that

Stupid meddler!
Hahahahaha, he is about to get an
Open letter! The
Ultimate final nail to end it all!
Laceration from that good reputation
Down with his good graces.

Bring down that meddler once and for all,
Everyone against him, the
Lookalikes have been planted!
One, two, three four!
Now, let the seeds spread throughout this
Gutted land! You will

Take back what belongs to the abyss! Time for a standing
Ovation, Fontaine's Archon!

Unleash the beast,
So that his reputation falters!

Hahahaha, you hope he likes fire!
Ahahahahahha
Hahahahahahahah
Ahahahahaha, let everything burn.
Hahahahahaha, let everything simmer.
Ahahahahaha,
Hahahaha, the
Abyss will reclaim this world! Everything should blister!"

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the chimera gazed at the harbor from afar. Could a crime be happening right now as he was thinking? But, as his thoughts melted into the pot inside him, the Agent dragged him downwards upon the sandy mountain.

Boat appearing on the scene out of thin air as usual, the hyena had soon been seated. Agent cruising the wooden vehicle forward, the soldier kept his gaze forward towards the docking area ahead. What crimes could be happening right now? Whatever it was, he had to make sure he remained cautious at all times.

Romaritime Harbor reached after about twenty-five minutes, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Nothing of especial note sticking out to him, the early adult let out a barely audible breath. Subordinate soon dragging him forward towards the stairwell, a satchel was slammed onto the chimera's backside.

Agent informing him for what felt like the thousandth time he was not allowed to teleport anywhere within Fontaine, the early adult held back the urge to shout at such statement. Why did he have to keep repeating such every single time he was here? He knew already. Surely, he had to have gotten tired of repeating the same message over, and over again. But, a second warning soon drowned out the repeat order.

Subordinate heeding him to be cautious over people who might look like him, the chimera tilted his head. Why would there be people who looked like him? He did not have the same face as the millions of generic nobodies around him. But, the soldier kept his focus forward. Soon told to not do anything that would raise suspicions, the hyena nodded. Cautious was a necessity.

Agent soon departing, the soldier ascended the staircase. Glass lift soon taken as well, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Not a single soul around Romaritime Harbor, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. It was quiet, almost too quiet. Aquabus station empty, the chimera pressed the button.

Not even the usual pirate ship owner in the corner around, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had everyone in the area fled due to the high crime rate? He supposed he did not blame people if they wished to keep themselves safe from being the next victim. Staring off at the harbor in front of him, the soldier waited for the Aquabus to arrive.

Vehicle arriving slightly later than normal, a wave of unease flowed through the soldier. Melusine apologizing such slip in punctuality, an infuriating set of words had been released out onto the waters below. Tour guide stating someone attempted to vandalize the bus, the early adult could feel a fuse about to burst. Who would do such a thing? Absolutely disgusting behavior.

Seating himself near the closest seat possible to the Melusine, a comment had been made that he's making himself at home today. Vehicle of automatic creation soon cruising forward on its own, nothing but the sound of water from underneath the boat echoed throughout the harbor.

As the vessel continued to head northward bound, the soldier could not help but ponder. Why did there have to be a high amount of crime within Fontaine now of all times? The Meka guards, were they unable to function as they once did after they had been destroyed?

Seeing the opera house off in the distance, the soldier gazed at the legal world in the corner. Whoever it was that was causing trouble, surely, the nation's justice system, or the bird bounty hunters would do something about them. But, the hyena threw such thoughts away. Surely, it was already being dealt with. He needed to stop focusing on such.

Vehicle docked in the station after about thirty minutes, the soldier stepped foot into the Court of Fontaine. But, as he blended into the crowd of the rich, unrest filled the streets. Moving forward, the early adult attempted to tune such out. He had to make way towards Fleuve Cendre. Attention laser focused, the chimera walked towards the northwestern path.

As the soldier had begun walking down the streets, the soldier swore he could see a person with purple hair the same length as his running in the opposite direction. Seeing such, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Had there been mirrors around the city? But, the chimera shook his head. There was no way that could have been the case. He had to have been seeing things.

Walking past the newspaper stand, the sound of people chattering about a purple haired gremlin going around on a crime heist, the chimera blinked of bewilderment. Just how much did he miss while he was stuck in his Annapausis adventure? Something had to have happened, for sure.

Passing by the Adventurer's Guild, the sound of screams filled the streets. Generic rich people screaming someone just stole their diamond rings, the hyena swore he could hear someone with a familiar sounding voice scream all of Fontaine's riches shall belong to the Fatui. Hearing such, the soldier resisted the urge to spit on the ground. Who was this person? If any Fatui in the area heard such, they would feel offended, without question.

Continuing onward upon the southern path, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Jewelry everywhere pilfered, the early adult shook his head with a wave of disappointment. What a petty layer of crime. Whoever was responsible for this, they should be sent to the Fortress of Meropide. Where were the hawk and falcon chimera when they were needed? There was a bounty on the loose.

But, the commotion had only hit is peak as the early adult passed by the rival boutique of the penguin chimeras. Door wide open and screams about thievery deep inside, an entire human person had been chucked on the wind. Brown, ponytail haired woman with a yellow and brown kimono shaking her fists like she was about to yell at a cloud, her shouts soon were ready to break glass.

"And, stay out! How dare you try and steal from my boutique!" the woman shouted.

Kimono woman soon returning to her shop, door slamming itself shut, the soldier read the name on the door, for a brief moment. Seeing the name Chioriya boutique, the chimera turned his attention towards the opposite end. Spotting yet another person with purple haired person running away, the hyena let out a gulp. He needed to proceed further with caution, indeed.

Commotion dying down as if it never occurred, the chimera kept heading towards the southern streets. But, as he kept on walking, the soldier could not help but wonder, Malika's boutique, could it have been raided, as well? Perhaps, just maybe, he would be penguin free today. A blessing to be had, for sure, if such were the case.

But, the early adult popped such thoughts with a needle. What an awful thing for him to even ponder. No matter how much of a pest the penguins were, them being subject to any sort of crimes was not something he would wish upon anyone. Taking such back, the hyena kept heading southward. Soon, the doors to the underground world would be upon him.

Such movement towards the Fleuve Cendre was cancelled before it could move forward to the next hit season in the opera house. Seeing Earl skip around the streets without a singular care in the world, a wave of disgust flowed through the hyena. Did he summon the pesky thorn in his side by thinking about him? This penguin was the devil who would appear whenever one were to speak of them.

Seeing his real, bonafide without a doubt, future husband walking towards the gates to Fleuve Cendre, Earl could feel himself ready to bring the call to action. There were so many ugly people impersonating him. He needed to get him out of the spotlight and protect him like any good wife would.

"Hi again, Siorc! The city is dangerous right now!" Earl exclaimed, grabbing his hand. "Let me take you home so you can be somewhere safe!"

The chimera let out a deep throated groan. Was the pesky penguin thorn in his side being serious right now? He didn't have time for any of this. He had to go down to the underground city right this instant. But, the hyena knew that Earl would not let go of him no matter how much he were to struggle. Waving the white flag, the drag about continued.

As the soldier passed by the restaurant in the corner, the soldier swore the southwestern streets of the city were quieter than even a mouse. Had the other side been completely cleared of crime? How incredibly strange. But, perhaps, just maybe, a bounty hunter had cleared out the area.

Reaching the boutique after fifteen minutes of quiet walking, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes as he had been taken downstairs to the apartment below. Large quark board filled to the brim with photos of people that looked almost identical to him committing various crimes with multiple strings making a crooked spider web like formation, the chimera could feel a sea of questions wrap vines around him.

Kaiser walking by the board placing another photo down and moving a string forward, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Original penguin thorn in his side and monocle cousin wearing a brown trench coat and ridiculous looking hat with a patchy pattern, the inquires baked themselves into a cake. Was this family playing detective? What a ridiculous sight to behold.

"I'm home!" Earl announced, stepping forward. "Wow, Kaiser, this quark board of evidence is coming along nicely!"

Taking a closer look at the so called evidence board, the soldier could feel his heart break like a glass as he looked forward. Doppelgangers in the photo with small amounts of different colored hair peaking through their lock of violet, the soldier's legs shook. These people, where did they get these wigs from? Someone was out to get him, for sure.

Keeping his questions inside, the soldier stepped forward. There was no more time. He could not stay here any longer. Allowing the penguin thorn in his side to drag him here was quite unnecessary. He needed to go back towards the underground city right now. Walking towards the stairwell, he readied to bid his farewell.

"I have to go to Fleuve Cendre," Siorc said, back turned. "I cannot stay here." But, an immediate protest had come his way.

"Do you really think going out in the open after what you've seen is the right idea?" Baron asked, twirling their hair. "You are not being very smart right now." Another protest soon took the stage.

"Those ugly people impersonating him don't even have the same face!" Kaiser fired back.

Penguin chimeras looking ready to go on and on, the soldier continued to step towards the stairwell. Being brought to the apartment was an incredible waste of his time. So what there had been a group of imposters among him committing crimes? They did not have the same face as him. Surely, someone was already dealing with them behind the scenes. Shoulders growing colder by the minute, the early adult stepped up the first stair. But, another interruption soon readied to rupture his eardrums.

"Darling, it's dangerous to go alone," Malika warned, stepping forward. "Allow me to escort you there. It's really sweet of you to help out. A lot has been piling up down there lately."

Hearing Malika's words as she grabbed a hold of his hand, the early adult almost let out a forbidden question. Why wasn't anyone helping out the less fortunate down in Fleuve Cendre if troublesome issues had been occurring down there? But, the early adult kept himself quiet. Everyone had their own busy lives to attend to.

As the escort towards the underground city continued, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why would anyone want to look like him and commit crimes assuming his appearance? He knew, apart from his eyes not being the same color, there was no way he stood out amongst the crowd. But, he supposed anyone who did not have a generic face would be something a nobody would wish to look like.

Large green doors soon swung open like it was no one's business, the soldier observed the area, for a moment. Malika going on ahead, the chimera prepared himself for the descent downward. Could there have been other doppelgangers causing problems in the underground city below? If such were the case, he would face them head on.

Climbing down a large series of ladders, the early adult prepared himself for the possibility of seeing double. Could there have already been crime afoot down in the deepest pits underground? If the poor had been stolen from, such should have been by punishable by imprisonment.

Malika leading the way to the center of the underground city, a familiar set of curls appeared within his distanced field of damaged vision. Demoiselle walking around around the metallic streets asking an array of questions, the hyena swore she could hear her inquire about a purple haired individual breaking into someone's home the evening before.

Elderly man confirming such, the hyena could feel his heart sink like a stone in the ocean. The various doppelgangers had broken into the home of a poor old person? What a low place to sink. No wise person of many years deserved to have anything they owned taken from them. Demoiselle turning towards him with a heavy look of suspicion, goosebumps devoured the soldier whole. He was about to be accused of the crime any second now.

"Is this the man who robbed you last night, monsieur?" the demoiselle asked.

Elderly man pondering for a moment, the chimera could feel his heart skip four beats. If he were to say it was him, it would be game over, for sure. There was no way he would be able to defend himself. But a savior upon his face would soon save him from the prison sentence awaiting him in the future.

"Ah, him? Why no, demoiselle. This lad has freckles," the elderly man said. "The one who robbed me blind did not have any."

Elderly man pointing out the perpetrator had no freckles, a wave of relief washed over the hyena. He was grateful in this moment that his mother had given birth to him with hyena spots that looked like freckles to a normal human. But, as he kept getting lost in his own thoughts, the elderly man dropped down a controversial hammer.

"Sweet good old Roi is here!" the elderly man shouted, pointing, but a loud invasive cough had kicked in as the last three words had been said.

"Oh, my, there go my allergies acting up again at the most inconvenient of times!" Malika shouted, faking another coughing fit. "Roi's on a journey! He won't be coming back any time soon. It's me, Malika!" Her eyebrow twitched as she said such. "Anyway, I brought down a helper today while I assist the Spina di Rosula with solving this crime!" Her words were shaking like a leaf.

Crowd of people surrounding him like a flock of vultures, the early adult could feel a chill down his spine as a person with injuries from head to toe pointing at him with a heavy sense of rage. Man shouting he looked like the guy who assaulted him, the soldier's heart skipped two beats. The people impersonating him had harmed a citizen? How awful of them. These people were giving him a bad name. But, the bird man next to him soon saved the hour.

"My fellow hunter bro, no way that's the dude that did this to you. Didn't the person who jumped you have an old face?" the bird man asked, trying to make the face of an old man. "Black fish steak bro over here is cute, and small."

The hyena's eyebrows twitched upon hearing such line of words thrown at him. He couldn't have been the one to do it because he was cute and small? What an outrageous thing to say. Anyone of any size an shape could commit a crime. But, the early adult regained focus. He needed to focus his attention on the tasks he was about to be given. Injured person telling the bird man he was right, loud whispers had been whiffed into his ears.

"So, my bud here needs you to go to the Belleau region to clean up some slimes there," the bird man said. "Bring back the spoils of war they leave behind!"

Giving the bird man a nod, the chimera tilted his head. He had to fight slimes again? Such was no problem at all. Getting rid of such creatures would be as easy as baking a pound cake. Readying to exit the area to fulfill such request, the soldier turned around. But, more requests soon flooded in.

Another person requesting he collect crates that contained fresh bottles of water, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. Why couldn't someone have went out and gotten the boxes of liquid themselves? But, he supposed the people down below were too shaken up by the crimes they had been afflicted with. Giving the requestee a nod, one final set of orders had come his way.

Generic young woman in rags asking if he could clean up the Slimes that were in the underwater trenches and near the skies, as well, the chimera blinked. Had there been some Anemo Slimes causing trouble? How peculiar. But, he supposed he could combine such request with the first one.

Group of three sending him their gratitude, the soldier ascended the multiple sets of ladders. Surface world soon returned to, the soldier dashed off towards the Aquabus station. Requesting the Melusine tour guide have the vehicle stop halfway through near Poisson Tunnel, the automatic ride forward pressed onward.

Figuring the best course of action would be to eliminate the slimes first, the soldier waited for the tunnel to be upon him. As the automatic vehicle kept cruising forward, however, the hyena swore he could hear a racket down beneath the railings system. Shrugging, the chimera tuned such noises out.

Soon arriving at the Poisson tunnel, the early adult removed himself from the vessel. Wind glider deployed, a sight to behold caught the chimera's attention almost immediately. Person adorning a purple wig with the slightest hint of blonde peaking underneath it ramming a large metallic hammer into the railing system, the soldier let out a scream.

Lookalike running off at lightning speed, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. If this person was going to run away, he had no reason to chase after them. Regaining focus for the mission at hand, the hyena observed the area around him. Spotting slimes everywhere from the beach and beyond, the hyena cracked his knuckles. It was time to slay the enemies into puddles.

Reaching the beaches after half an hour of walking, Slimes as black as the nighttime sky hopped around the area like they owned the place. Knowing the time to battle was now, the soldier sifted through his satchel for a moment. Coming across a peculiar greatsword that looked as though it had actually been a saw, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Who was in charge of giving him his weapons lately?

Enemies spotting him, the soldier placed the weapon of many purposes behind him. Swiping the sawblade forward with all his might, the chimera let out a battle cry. Look of pain on the slime's faces for a moment, the chimera kept the momentum going. This would be a clean sweep defeat, for sure.

The easy switch would soon break.

Blood red aura surrounding the slimes as the soldier's attacks kept going, the hyena could feel the world around him narrow. The gelatinous monsters in Fontaine, did they have capabilities others within their own species did not have? If such were the case, he needed to fight with all his might.

Blade doing nothing for minutes on end, the soldier swore he could see the slime's energy swallowing the attacks up like it was their afternoon snack. Jelly creature looking as vitalized as it did moments ago, the early adult kept on swinging. Surely, the saw would leave its mark eventually.

Slime army closing their eyes, for a moment, a jeweled surprise awaited the soldier. Diamond barrage raining down upon him like it was some kind of shower, the soldier let out a scream. What were these monsters? A yellow fox monster with yin-yang gloves who knew the attack diamond storm? They had been in the wrong world.

Diamond rain continuing for minutes on end, the soldier placed the blade in front of him. Hardest mineral known to man bouncing off, the hyena let out a battle cry. Attacks sent back to their owner six times, the creatures faded into nothingness. Army upon the beach reduced to zero after ten strikes further, the chimera headed northward.

Slime consolidate dropping upon the ground, the hyena studied it, for a moment. Was it just his imagination, or had the monster's dropping been metallic? But, the hyena shook his head. Maybe that's how their droppings always worked. Commodities scooped up into a jar, the chimera kept walking.

Multiple peculiar black slimes barely putting up a fight as the hyena headed upon the eastern path, the soldier let out a sigh as he collected their droppings while they were hot. What was the point in cleaning up these creatures? They would regenerate upon his exit from the area.

Battles in the area remaining on easy mode for minutes on end, the early adult held back the urge to groan. That bird man, he looked fully capable of fighting. He should have come along with him to do some of the work. But, the hyena threw such thoughts down in the ocean. He was the one tasked with assisting the less fortunate. The job was his, no one else's. He needed to remove such complaints from inside him. Such was forbidden of him anyway.

But, as the early adult had reached the west slopes, the slime's peak defenses had kicked into overdrive. Metallic spikes encasing the creatures from head to backside, the soldier's blade was nothing more than a paperweight. Monster army crawling towards him swiftly, the early adult backed seven steps away.

Gelatinous creatures unleashing a bed of steel pointers from their invisible mouths, the soldier's uniform had soon become a dartboard to behold. Teeth continuing their rampage for minutes on end, the hyena grit his teeth. What element were these slimes, Ingoto? How greedy of these creatures gaining power beyond the seven.

Knowing his flower frenemy would not be able to do anything in this situation, the soldier switched the position of his legs. Deflecting the only option available, the soldier placed the sawblade in front of him. Spiky attack of doom ready and waiting, the early adult swung with all his might.

Creatures popping like a balloon one after another, the early adult scouted the area. Enemies crawling their way towards the tower of many mysteries in the east, the hyena's currently human legs bolted into a speedy sprint. He did not know why, but he could feel a sense that the monsters should not enter the tower, no matter what.

Pressing a small button in the claymore's center, moving parts vibrated in a rapid manner. Saw doing its extermination duties, slimes one after another had faded into the ether. Gelatinous droppings jarred into obscurity, the soldier accelerated his sprint. The monsters, he could not let them enter the tower. Doom would befall the Belleau Region for sure if he allowed such to happen.

Black slime population sliced up like they were fruit, the chimera let out a huffed breath. Was the area safe now? But, as if the gods were laughing at him, a new army made itself known around the east slopes. Dashing off towards the creatures, their demise had been front, line and center.

Reversing back towards the west slopes, the soldier's eyebrows twitched at the sight before him. Monster army alive and kicking once again, the hyena could feel his throat harden into stone. The monsters had regenerated already? The red aura, whatever it had been, it was the strongest energy to behold.

Enemies slain for minutes on end as the hyena kept heading west, the soldier could not help but wonder. Who, or what could have possibly powered up these monsters? The aura they had been exuding, something was not right about it whatsoever. Someone, or something had to have given it to them, for sure.

As the soldier creeped closer towards Poisson, slimes destroyed aplenty, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. He supposed that whoever, or whatever, had given these creatures their power, what had been done already happened. Final creature around the fish city's outskirts exterminated, the hyena cracked his knuckles. It was time to take to the skies and sea.

But, as the soldier prepared to head to Elton Trench, a feeling of dread overtook him. Hearing the sound of shouts down below, the early adult descended the ladder adjacent to him. He could not shake off the feeling that something had been amiss here. Dropping down to the underground city, a scene of terror played itself out.

Spotting the sea lion trio in the center of the city going all out by themselves in some sort of battle against an army of slimes, the early adult's heart sank. The monsters had been down underground, as well? He should have come here first and foremost. But, such had not been the end of it. Person who looked exactly like him dashing from house to house with a heavy sack slung over their shoulders, screams had come their way as they were gone in the blink of an eye.

"Get back here, you lousy criminal!" Bain shouted at the top of her lungs. As she said such a Slime rammed into her hips.

"Um, too late, Bain, they're already you know, gone," Kali said. "You screamed a little too late, I think." As she said such, a Slime rammed into her stomach.

"Aaaah, sissie, sisser! If you two keep talking, the slimys are gonna eat us!!" Aigre shouted.

Trio looking distracted, the early adult dashed onto the scene. Metallic gelatinous monsters defeated after thirty strikes, the soldier broke out into a sweat. Was it just him, or were the enemy's defenses only getting stronger? But, as he was lost in his thoughts, a new challenger emerged from the dirty waters.

Humanoid looking water creature with an aquatic blade making its presence known within the waters around it, the soldier backed five steps away. Where had this monster come from? Had it been the leader of the Slimes? If it was, he needed to exterminate it immediately. Bain studying it for a moment as he walked forward, a surprise had come the hyena's way.

"That thing, it's supposed to be in the Beryl region," Bain said, fingers on her chin. "How did it escape Elynas?"

"Um, Bain, there's no time to think!" Kali exclaimed. As she said such, the creature roared. "Everyone, get your scythes ready!"

Party of three in front of him taking out their weapons of choice, the early adult bent his knees. Charging himself towards the enemy, the hyena slashed about with all his might. Creature squirming with every slice, the soldier let out a battle cry. This enemy, it had to go down. It needed to be taken out the picture as soon as possible.

Bain summoning her burning anchor of fire the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. The flames were out of sight, out of mind. Humanoid water creature exuding steam for minutes on end, Kali soon tagged herself into the ring. Trident of electricity plaguing the waters, Hydro and Electro shook hands with one another.

Sea of static overtaking the area, the chimera rolled up his sleeves. The opening was wide. The time had come for the finishing blow. But, such easy victory was halted before it could even begin. Humanoid creatures summoning tiny friends, a blue aura surrounded the creature.

Tiny creatures looking ready to be absorbed into their host, Aigre soon stepped up to the plate. Rocky attacks throwing the tides for a loop, the baby enemies were soon no more. Knowing such was his chance to deal the final blow, the saw revved itself up like it was the weapon of a man who had a leather face.

Creature dissolving into a puddle, the early adult broke into a sweat. How did this monster come from Elynas? Perhaps, just maybe, it had been transported here through other means. Such thoughts, however, were cut off by the sound of high pitched whines in the corner.

"Captain Vert's been injured!!" Aigre whined. "I have to get him holy water to save him!" As she said such, she bolted off.

"Aigre, where do you think you're going? Get back here!" Kali shouted.

Two of three sisters gone in a flash, Bain's eyes soon sized the soldier up like he was some sort of pinup model. Deep look of suspicion in her eyes, the soldier's stomach had become as hard as a rock. Was she about to ask him about the crimes that had happened minutes before? He needed to prepare himself for any possible outcome.

"Are you the one robbing people's homes?" Bain asked.

Question thrown his way rather than an accusation, the hyena gazed into Bain's eyes. Gaze of distrust radiating stronger than all the seven archon's powers combined together, intimidation hit the walls. These lookalikes, they were beginning to ruin his already soured reputation. Shaking his head, the chimera retained eye contact.

Studying the face in front of her for a moment, Bain placed her finger on her chin. Was this Siorc that was in front of her? There was no way he could have committed this crime. The person who was robbing the houses, they had small black eyes that looked lifeless. Had someone been impersonating him? Some people had the weirdest of hobbies.

"I thought so. Their face was different," Bain said. She then turned around. "Sorry, I have to go!"

Bain running off, the soldier blinked. Chasing after family was the fastest movement in the world. Knowing it was now time to drop down into the trenches down below, the early adult ascended the ladder once more. Heading upon the southward path, a sea of thoughts soon engulfed him.

As the beaches of Fontaine had only gotten closer, lookalikes aplenty had been running around with a fury. Group gone within a singular blink, the chimera shrugged. There was certainly a lot of chaos beyond his reach within the Belleau region. Heelless shoes crunching onto the sands beneath him, the chimera soon removed his diving equipment.

Blubbery suit soon swallowing the soldier whole, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind and diving equipment synced up with one another, the early adult dropped himself downward into the seabed beneath him. Underwater world plagued with the black slimes aplenty, the chimera prepared himself.

Aquatic blade button pressed, slimes far and wide within the trenches had become nothing but fish stew. Keeping the momentum going as he kept going north, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Penguin duo nowhere to be seen, the hyena kept the battles going.

Foreign gelatinous monsters cut into ribbons, the early adult kept having the diving suit thrust him northward. Creatures destroyed one after another, in quick succession, the early adult kept looking around. Enemy army removed from the equation, the soldier thrusted towards the west.

Monsters becoming one with the ocean as the early adult kept heading westward, a wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. The penguin duo, why were they absent? How incredibly odd. Didn't they live in the ocean? But, he supposed them not being around to try and bring harm to him was a god's blessing in disguise.

Enemies across the Chemin de L'espoir area cleared out one after another, the soldier set his eyes on Annapausis. The Slimes, could they have wiggled their ways into the area secluded from the Elton Trench? He supposed checking it out would be worth a shot. Readying to thrust northward, the hyena stroked onward inexorably.

As the soldier readied to move towards the watery door to the castle underneath the sea, a performance to behold was sounding the curtain call. Seahorse unicorn creature galloping across the water with electricity ready to serve static to the audience, the hyena could feel his joints buckle. He would soon be delivered a magical electric gift of doom.

Zinn and Peltro on the scene, frog hands stuck themselves onto the creature like glue. Peltro slamming is alligator tail into the enemy, the soldier had come to an immediate realization. The monster, had it been the same one he had fought weeks prior? How did it end up in the southwestern waters? Displacement was a frog's foot. Fight continuing, such fact soon called itself out from the audience.

"It's totally weird this thing escaped from the Liffey region, ribbit," Zinn said, croaking.

"Good thing those penguins are absent so we can deal with it head on," Peltro responded. "Or else, they'd shoo us back to Annapausis." As it said such, it rammed its tail into the enemy.

As if luck was dead, the penguins soon arrived.

Seeing the penguin duo speeding towards the frog and alligator duo as they took wigs off their heads, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. Vidame and Domini, did he just see what he thought he saw? But, the soldier shook his head. No way. He had to be mistaken.

Spotting the toxic frog out of their prison hole, Vidame could feel the world around her become rancid. Why was that venomous being out of Annapausis? Didn't she strictly tell them to stay away from the Elton Trench? She went away for one whole day to take care of certain business for the disgusting vermin to try and squeeze their way back out into their clean oceans. No way, not a chance. She couldn't let their poisons ruin her home.

Poisonous alligator monster outside of its lair, Domini grit his teeth. Who did this fiend think it was, coming out of Annapausis. He had told it so many times, it was not allowed out of there. Did it think just because neither he nor Vidame were around they could parade the area laying down their deadly venom? The audacity. He needed to chase them back behind the wall right now.

"You frog! Get out of here!" Vidame shouted, pointing. "Are you trying to poison the waters? Go back to Annapausis, you monster!" Domini soon added his voice to the ring.

"And that goes for you to, alligator!" Domini shouted at the top of his gills. "Go away! Get out of here! Go back to Annapausis where your poisonous kind belongs!"

"We're toxic free today, ribbit," Zinn said, croaking. "Don't be so nasty t' us. We ain't gonna poison no water."

"We'll go back to Annapausis after we stamp out this vermin," Peltro said. It then crossed its arms around its waist. "It's not like either of you are doing anything about it."

"Ugh, whatever! Bye, we have a date with destiny!" Domini shouted. As he said such, he saw off faster than a speeding bullet.

Undersea penguin duo swimming away as if they were running late to some sort of very important date, the soldier could not help but feel a wave of suspicion flow through him. What just happened? Why did they run away like that? But, he supposed they had other wiggy business to attend to. He would confront them later, if he had the chance.

Monster letting out a deep whinny, the soldier prepared his aquatic blade for battle. But, the frog and alligator duo gave him a look. Fire looking like it could burn their eyes into nothing, the soldier broke into a sweat. Was he about to witness an explosion like no other?

"Leave this fella to us," Zinn said, voice serious. "Those penguins got blood out fer ya, I think."

"You mean that they have blood out for us," Peltro corrected them.

"Peltro, are ya blind?! Did ya not see the bloodlust in their eyes?!" Zinn fired back. "Ain't no way it was aimed at us entirely! I saw how they were lookin' at him!"

"Ugh, whatever. You're wrong about that, though," Peltro fired back. It then turned towards Siorc. "Anyhow, we'll deal with this thing. Some diver kid said if we see you to tell you to just move on from this area."

Hearing Peltro mention a diver, the early adult tilted his head. When had the diver boy been here? He supposed he had to have just missed him. Knowing that if he stayed to fight the seahorse unicorn monster, he would be invading someone else's territory, the soldier had the diving suit bring him back up to the surface. Getting into a territorial dispute was not on the agenda.

Returning to the surface, the early adult swore the sky crackle with lightning, for a moment. Tilting his head upward, a sky battle of hawk and falcon versus the black slimes shook the clouds to their core. Not wishing to arrowed down, the hyena headed towards the docked Aquabus. There was no way he would step into the bounty hunter's battlegrounds; not today.

Aquabus tour guide saying she was making a special trip to Marcotte Station, the soldier gazed upwards towards the sky one last time. Hawk unleashing a hammer out of nowhere, the hyena returned his attention towards the waters in front of him. The air world up above him would be fine without his assistance.

Reaching the pathway towards the opera house after about half an hour, the soldier let an exasperated sigh at the fountain sidewalks in front of him. Water crates aplenty laid out like they were litter, the hyena could feel his eyes flutter. Who left a mess out here? The Hydro Archon, she had to have something to say about this, for sure.

First crate soon collected, the early adult grunted. Whoever left the supplies out in the blazing sun wasn't the brightest bulb in the box. The water, there was no way it would be good for consumption by the time he returned to the underground city. Second crate picked up, the soldier strapped the supplies onto his backside.

Spotting a group of doppelgangers writing something on the fountains as he grabbed the third and fourth set of crates, the early adult broke out into a sweat. Were the lookalikes attempting to vandal the opera house next? If they were to strike any further, the consequences would be dire, without a shadow of doubt.

Fifth and sixth crates picked up, the soldier swore he could see the vandals moving towards the back of the opera house. Seeing such, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Just what were these people planning? Hearing a loud splash from afar, the soldier kept on walking. If they had already escaped, it was no use attempting to chase after them.

Seventh and final crate plastered onto his backside, the early adult let out a groan. His back weighed more than a ton. But, he knew he had to bear with it. The boxes of water had to reach their destination. Returning to the Aquabus station, the soldier trudged back towards the underground city.

Commodities soon delivered to their senders, the hyena prepared himself to retire for the evening, but as he prepared to stage his exit, the bird man's currently human fingers pointed at a heated stove in the corner. Seeing such, the hyena rolled his eyes to the ceiling. Was this man sitting around, waiting to be fed? Absolutely ridiculous. He was an adult, like he was. He could feed himself.

"Gimme and the kids fish steak again!" the bird man demanded. "They're hungry!" Pointing at the children, his wings flapped from behind him. "I should probz introduce myself. Name's Lonan." A goofy smile soon appeared on his face. "Make sure my steak is pitch black like my soul!"

The early adult rolled his eyes to the sky. What was he, this bird man's personal chef? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. Surely, he could make his own pitch black fish steak. It had to have been as simple as stealing fish meat from the ocean and cooking it. Hawks were hunter birds. His instincts were definitely not broken.

Group of children whining they haven't eaten anything in days, a wave of guilt flowed through the hyena. Maybe cooking the fish steak one last time wouldn't hurt matters. Elderly man in the corner tossing him leftover fish steak slabs, the soldier had begun cooking. Multiple demands to char them coming his way for hours on end, regret flowed through the chimera. Maybe he should have uttered the two letter rejection after all.

Starving children practically burning themselves to grab their steaks of the grill, the early adult's stomach did a somersault inside him. Did anyone ever teach theses kids that stoves were hot and should not be touched? Youthful generic nobodies gobbling away at their steak like they haven't eaten in years, guilt laid down a cherry pit inside him.

Bird man chomping down on his fish steak as well, the early adult gazed at him, for a moment. This Lonan person, surely, he knew how to hunt enough to not need to demand he make him rich people food. Cleaning the grill up in silence, heeled footsteps soon entered the area. Malika soon beside the grill, eyes were on him.

"Darling, that ruffian boss of yours sought me out to tell me your job isn't done yet," Malika said, exasperated tone of voice. "Follow me back to the boutique."

Escorted back to the apartment beneath the hotel, a small plate with a cooked duck leg awaited the soldier. Nibbling on the meat, the soldier turned his attention towards the quark board. Board full with photos, the chimera's eyes opened wide. Had the board been full now? Just how much more had happened in his absence?

Quick meal soon finished, the early adult let out a yawn. Walking towards the guestroom, the soldier slumped into the temporary bed. But, as the world of sleep were about to take him away for the night, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his fading human brain.

Crime was amok around Fontaine.

***

"Those vile, gazelle
Horned fiends! How day they walk
Over to me and even
Suggest I join in their vile schemes!
Everyone knows that I, Robin, and a hero of justice! I will not sink into any

Villains plots of tomfoolery! The
Audacity of these freaks!
Going on over to me in my territory, these
Retched vermin have the nerve to
Approach me, and
Natter on with
These heinous, wicked
Suggestions of villainy!

'Hawk, we know you despise hyena boy! Join
Our cause to take this meddler down!'
Well, at first, they had me interested! Sign me up, is it to get this

Dirty villain behind bars and
Arrested? With pleasure, that hyena, I'd kill to have him behind bars forever! But
Raven soon said, 'Hon, I smell a rat.'
Every time my lover says that, I

Trust him undoubtedly.
He smells a rat. I know what that means! These two are villains
Especially! Raven whispers in my ear, 'Hon, look behind them?'
You know, I could hardly believe my eyes! Behind those fiends backs were purple wigs! Two of them!

Stupid fools! I see where this is going! They are asking me to assume that hyena fiends identity! What an
Utter disgusting suggestion!
Get out of here, I will not dress up as that vile villain!
Get out of here, I will not wear that vile wig! And the nerve of these vagrants!
Eyeing me with their evil little pupils! They
Soon say exactly what a rat would say! 'What's wrong? Hawk get cold feet?
Take the wig! He will be behind bars! Look like him and do some crimes!"

I stamp my talons down! Disgusting, disgraceful! How dare these vagrants!

Cannot believe these vile fiends!
Oh, will I serve justice to you two, just you wait!
My hammer of justice will be cast upon you!
My boyfriend's justice will come for you!
I am the Justice Hawk of Fontaine!
There's no way I would engage in illegal activities!

Cannot believe these vagrants, they're worse than that Fatui! Did they
Really truly think I'd agree?
I despise that freak of criminal nature, but they're seven billion
Millenniums behind if they think I'd
Ever, for even a second, commit a crime!
Stupid fools, justice is coming for you!"

Feeling hands on him rocking him as the hyena escaped the dream world, the soldier placed his glasses over his eyes. Kaiser's bandaged hands on the edge of his shoulders, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Was he still dreaming? Tugs continuing for minutes on end, the hyena jolted himself upward. He was definitely awake right now.

"Malika told me to take you down to Fleuve today," Kaiser said, very little emotion in his voice. "Someone is causing chaos out in the streets, but everyone's on the case." He paused for a moment. "We'll make sure those people impersonating you pay."

Kaiser soon escorting him to the underground city, the hyena stared at the back of his head for minutes on end. The penguin, why was he helping out on this mission? He was rarely ever kind to him. Did he truly deserve his assistance? Doors to the underground city soon opened, the chimera's thoughts were cut off.

But, as the hyena reached the Fleuve Cendre the air was tense. Desserts laid out everywhere the eye could see, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the chimera. Why were there sweets here? He could not help but feel something had been off. Demoiselle walking around everywhere gaining information, Malika soon came onto the stage, as well.

"Someone has been going around stealing all the desert stocks in the city," Malika said, serious tone of voice. "Lady ------ is going to be very angry when she finds out about this."

Hearing the demoiselle mention the name Focalors, as well, Siorc could feel his ears twitch. Was stealing desserts in Fontaine a crime? Whoever had ransacked the sweets in the city, they were about to receive the ultimate punishments from the gods themselves. Group of three people soon walking towards him, the early adult returned his focus on the mission at hand.

Injured man from the day prior requesting he go down to Merusea Village to vanquish slimes on his behalf, the soldier nodded. He supposed he did not mind cleaning up more of such monsters for someone who was presently unable to. Giving the person a nod, the next order had come his way.

Researcher in tattered clothing requesting he gather data samples from machines on the pathway north of the opera house, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Was this really being requested of him right about now? If this person had the equipment, he could do it himself. He could not help but feel people were taking full advantage of him as a new helper. Person soon claiming he has no energy to work today, the early adult begrudgingly nodded. He supposed he had no choice in the matter.

Elderly man walking up to him requesting he grab some elongated crab pinchers from invading crustaceans on the beach, the soldier folded his arms across his waist. Was this wise man of many years seriously asking him to pluck a crab's defenses away from them? Knowing he could not utter the two letter word, the early adult nodded. Old man ensuring him he would only be taking the ones from monsters, the soldier held back the urge to shake his head. This had to have been wrong. Paper graphs handed off him, as well, a grating voice pressed the player number two button.

"Black fish steak bro, be careful up there," Lonan warned. "Hearing the crime is out of control on the surface."

Hearing such fact, the hyena blinked. How could the crime have gotten worse overnight? Who was letting such people who looked like him roam freely like this? But perhaps, just maybe, they were still running around unable to be caught. He knew it was best to keep himself on the tip of his toes.

Returning to the Aquabus station, the hyena released himself from the vehicle towards the halfway point. Dropping down to the ground towards the Beryl Region. But, as the chimera staged his landing, an incriminating sight like no other took the stage by a rainstorm.

Multiple doppelgangers down below wheeling around food carts filled to the brim with desserts everywhere, the early adult clicked his tongue. His various lookalikes, just what were they doing, walking around the Beryl Region with their stolen goods? These criminals were getting too bold in their own skin.

As the hyena headed upon the northern pathway, the sound of a splatter soon overtook the area. Familiar set of faces giving him a smirk as frosting, sugar and spongey filth had been circled onto his winter jacket, the early adult bellowed a growl. How dare these people get his uniform dirty. Absolutely disgusting, his jacket was filthy now.

Passing by the piping pool of heated waters, the chimera could feel another slap of spongey dessert cast upon his jacket's backsides. Feeling such, the hyena could feel his rage build inside him. Who did these people think they were, bringing him into their Fontaine dessert crimes? What vile individuals.

Person with an older looking face gifting him with icing on his sleeves, the early adult held back the urge to bite. Were these people being serious right now? Who did they think they were, continuously making his uniform filthier? Did they have nothing better to do?

Everyone running off with their stolen dessert carts as the soldier approached the entrance towards Merusea Village, the early adult brushed off the disgusting filth laid upon his winter jacket. Pinning the evidence on him, what absolutely lowly criminal behavior. Diving equipment soon over him, the soldier closed his eyes, for a moment.

But, as the soldier's diving suit reached Merusea Village, a look of fear filled the Melusine's faces. Seeing such, the early adult could feel his heart skip more than five beats. His various doppelgangers, had they done something down here, too? Prankster sea lion duo Coming towards him rapid fire, flippers pointed his way.

"Bro, you can't just waltz down here like nothing happened after bringing these wicked monsters down here!" Brume exclaimed, rage evident in his voice.

"Like, dude, you scared every single one of our sisters!" Éclater exclaimed, rage in his voice, as well.

Hearing the prankster sea lion brother's claims, the early adult gulped. Had these two fallen for the criminal's bait? He needed to let these two know he did not do it. Writing out such upon the waters, looks of doubt appeared on the duo's faces, in an instant. Eyes looking ready to catch fire, the next round of shouts presented themselves.

"Whatdya mean you didn't do it, bro?" Brume asked in an exclamatory tone. "We saw you! Hours ago!"

"Yeah, bro! I might be an idiot, but I'm not blind!" Éclater exclaimed, rage building. "Prove you didn't do it by cleaning up the mess, dude!"

Knowing that no he had to get rid of the slimes no matter what, the soldier dashed off towards the area. Prankster sea lions claiming there had been multiple monsters planted by him in A Lonely Place, the early adult had begun running. Group of slimes parading around the red crystals engulfing the area, the chimera prepared himself for battle.

Power saw soon in front of him, the early adult took a deep breath, for a moment. Enemy spiked up on its defenses, the early adult prepared himself. Blade piercing through the crystal, the first army of gelatinous monsters had been removed from the equation. Multiple other surrounding other minerals as well, the chimera dashed off towards the next red rock.

Pitch black slimes looking ready to eat the rocks for their breakfast, the soldier let out a battle cry. Monsters taken out of the picture as the red slash of disarray shined through, the soldier kept going. Enemies devoured by the crimson one after another, the parade of demise kept on going strong.

Final set of monsters within the place regarded as lonely, the early adult dashed off towards the edge of the area. Pink portal world engulfing him, his body had soon been spat out towards the very bright place. Monsters looking ready to devour conches on the seabed floor, the hyena had responded to the call of action.

Melusine giving him a peculiar looking device with a metallic head and bag of air, the hyena titled his head for a moment. What in the world was this Melusine giving him? Sea creature saying it was a vacuum cleaner, confusion looped on repeat. What was a vacuum cleaner? He had never heard of such a device in all his two decades of living.

Encouraged to let the vacuum loose and suck, sweat poured down the chimera's cheek. Suck? Suck what? What kind of peculiar machine needed to suck in order to function? This contraption was it some sort of wind eating creature? How incredibly strange. Melusine telling him to push her rust bucket ahead, the hyena sauntered onward.

Hose lifted up as a slime approached the vacuum, whatever that was, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes as the monster was sucked up into the tiny hairs on the metallic brush. The gelatinous enemy, where did it go? Dragging the rust bucket forward as another monster bounced forward, the hairs dragged the invading species inward.

Multiple dozens of monsters sucked into the creature known as the vacuum for minutes on end, the early adult adjusted his diving goggles, for a moment. This mechanical creature, how incredibly fascinating. Was it able to devour everything around it by absorbing wind? Technology was incredible.

Every single monster in the surface areas of the village sucked into their permanent vacuum prison, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Dropping himself downward into the seabed once more, the last round of slimes soon awaited him. Pushed through a current, the soldier steeled himself for the next battle.

Army of primitive elemental beings circling themselves around the outskirts of Merusea Village, the soldier's eyes grew wide. Had the monsters spread themselves out within the Elton Trench again? If they had regenerated from the day prior, the seas were in trouble, without question. Pressing the blade button upon his left glove, the chimera let the cuts do the talking.

Entire invasive slime population removed from the underwater population after twenty strikes, the soldier had his diving suit cruise him around the area, for a moment. Vidame and Domini absolutely nowhere to be seen once again, a wave of suspicion flowed through the hyena.

The undersea penguin chimera duo, those two, they had to have been one of his many current lookalikes running around the surface world causing crimes. Coming to such undeniable conclusion, questions wrapped vines around the chimera's ankles. Vidame and Domini, why would they stoop so low? Just how much did these two despise him for having mora?

Returning to the surface world, the soldier's thoughts encased his chest into a thick thorny cocoon. The underwater penguin duo, weren't they only able to breathe water? Why would they be willing to risk their lives to assume his appearance to commit crimes under his name? Visceral knew no boundaries.

Knowing his next order of business was to test machines for a researcher north of the opera house, the early adult removed the stacks of graphs handed off to him. Picture in front of him with a device containing circular metallic outside parts and a note reading the machines are around the research institute, the early adult returned to the capital city, for a moment.

Heading for the city's exit and off towards the disheveled bridge near the highest possible mountain range, the early adult studied the machine drawing on the paper once more. Finding himself in a strange world with floating water cubes everywhere, the first device of many had soon been located. Gazing at the machine, the soldier reread his instructions.

"Power the machine on and hit the moving blade as it moves around the blue lights," the scribbled note said.

Reading such, the soldier stared at the machine in front of him. He had to do what now? Hit a metallic blade as it moved around blue lights? What strangely specific instructions. How would this researcher be able to get any useful data from such? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. Maybe it would be useful to the researcher themselves. It was rude to call such useless. On button soon pressed, the soldier prepared himself for mechanical takeoff.

Peculiar half circle blade pushing itself up and down around its machine home, the soldier pressed his blade forward upon the metallic edges. Machine sparking and blade falling, the hyena's cheeks grew red. Did he do something wrong? Maybe he had applied too much pressure. He needed to be gentler.

Pressing the on button once more, the early adult swung his blade upon the circular object once more. Sparks flying for the second time, frustration had begun to pile up inside him like a plate of Tea Break Pancakes. What was he doing incorrectly? Peeking at the instructions or the second time, a fact screamed out at him.

Reading the words hit within the blue zone for the second time, the early adult reset his thought process back to zero. Right, he has to hit the half circle machine when it was within the dots. He was doing this all wrong, for sure. Slapping his cheeks, the hyena prepared himself for round three.

Machine hit within the blue zone three times in succession, the early adult headed off onto the northern path through the area. But, as he had done such, the sweet stealing villains stuck once again. Smirks plastering their faces as cake had soon been smeared all over him once more, the hyena resisted the urge to yell. How dare these people get his uniform filthy again. Didn't they have anything better to do?

Second mechanical device getting its energy recorded after three swipes of his blade, the early adult kept heading north. Cake villains leaving their mark for the third time of the day, the hyena held back the urge to swing a punch. Why hadn't these people had enough already of their messy pranks? This nonsense had to stop.

Moving on to the third and fourth machines, the hyena swore he could feel the ground shake beneath him, for a moment. Had had applied too much force to the equipment? Gazing at the graphs for a moment, the soldier tilted his head at the jagged lines. Perhaps he had put too much force into it.

Cake menaces to society striking once again, the soldier could feel himself ready to rip out his hair at any given moment. What would these criminals accomplish by continuing to make his uniform filthier and more disgusting? Absolutely nothing, for sure. They were just messing him for the sake of chaos.

Fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth machine having their energies all graphed and accounted for, the soldier gazed at the stack of research leaflets, for a moment. Not a single one remaining, the chimera broke out into a sweat. Was the data he collected enough? He hoped such were about to be the case.

Recalling the elderly man requested he prune off elongated crab pinchers, the soldier stared off into space. Why did he have to gather such a thing? The wise man of many years, could he have been confused with something else? Shrugging his shoulders, the early adult dashed back through the broken bridge. It was best to get what the man was asking of him.

Walking towards the beaches on the outskirts of Romaritime Harbor, a peculiar looking blue shelled crab with freakishly large pinchers strutted sideways on the beach. Tiptoeing towards the creature, the early adult brought out the shears. It was time to get this over with. Pinchers pruned, the crab dissolved into a mechanical Cicin.

Transformation playing out in front of his very eyes, the hyena rubbed his eyes. What in the world did he just witness? Mechanical creatures were strange. Although, as his pruning continued, a disgusting sight folded itself out in front of the chimera. Lookalikes with faces of older people running around dropping balls of toxins, the soldier's rage fired up the lightning poured into the bottle. Did the imposters among him just drop harmful chemicals into the ocean? They would pay.

Person running off faster than a bullet, the soldier attempted with all his might to catch up. This person, who did they think they were trying to bring their crimes to the deep seas? Absolutely appalling. Continuing the chase, the doppelganger soon stopped for a moment, but when he saw the person's eyes, shock decorated his face.

Person with small, pitch black eyes with the deadest look on their face dropping even more toxins down into the ocean bed beneath him, the early adult attempted to grab a hold of the person. That face, why did it look so familiar, where had he seen it before? But, the perpetrator of high ocean crimes vanished before he could think further.

Multiple peculiar crabs soon pruned of their oversized pinchers, the soldier readied to head towards the Belleau region once more. Could there have been more crustaceans on the beach there, as well? He supposed it was in his best interest to take a quick look to see. But, as he stepped onto the grainy sediment, a face he did not wish to see at the moment zeroed in on his heterochromatic field of damaged vision.

Aigre on the sand weeping her eyes out, the hyena could feel a wave of concern flow through him. Had one of his lookalikes bullied her? If any of them had done so, they had made a dire mistake of attempting to portray his character. But the soldier stared off into space. Did he just say he was a character? He was not a fictional being in some sort of story as told by someone else watching from the outside world. Closing his eyes for a moment, he restarted his thoughts. If any of his doppelgangers had bullied the sea lion, or mermaid rather, they had made a horrific mistake attempting to mimic his personality. Weeps continuing, her voice soon gained volume.

"Those meanies!" Aigre cried, voice only getting louder. She then turned towards her crew member. "Some weirdos who looked like you put a hole in my pirate ship! Help me bring them to justice!"

Hearing Aigre bring justice into the equation, the hyena held back the urge to sigh. This was getting far too personal now. The mermaid had to stop trying to drag him down into her pirate shenanigans. He did not have any time to involve himself with this mess today. Placing his hands in front of him an apology had been signed on
private display. But, as he had done so, the woman child had begun running.

"Aaaaaah, Captain Vert, I'm coming with your medicine! Just you wait!" Aigre screamed as she ran off.

Aigre soon departing, the hyena shrugged his shoulders. Whatever she was getting herself into, he was not about to follow her around. Final sent of elongated crab pinchers pruned off their strange mechanical orders, the soldier returned himself to the court city. But, as he walked through the streets, more food had been stolen aplenty. Dashing off towards Fleuve Cendre, the final countdown ticked.

Detailed graphs handed off to the researcher, a repeat demand had soon come the hyena's way. Bird man demanding fish steak for the second evening in a row, the soldier slapped his hand across his face. If he were to get this request one more time, his head would blow off. Black piece of burned meat given to the man, the soldier let out a yawn.

Returning to the surface, chaos had been rooted deep. Cake crimes afoot everywhere, spongy debris intertwined itself onto his uniform for the fourth time of the day as he attempted with all his might to head for the boutique. Haughty laugh playing as the smears of cake continued, golden eyes had soon been laid upon him as his journey through the chaotic city streets continued.

"There he is, I've caught your cake thief!" Robin shouted, pointing. "Lady ------, sentence this vile villain to a trial!"

Sea of eyes on his uniform, the early adult held back the urge to laugh. He sees now, he gets it. The dirtying of his uniform. It was all according to plan. The villains agenda. Thrust into the lookalike's trap. He was inside a picture frame of the guilty, without a doubt. He sees now.

He understands.

This was all a setup from the very beginning.

"Of course, my dear Robin!" the hydro archon exclaimed with bravado. "See you in court, cake thief!"

Eyes on him far and wide, the soldier had begun running. Fontaine's people, they all saw him as guilty without a doubt. Those lookalikes, they had planned this, this was their goal, agenda. Project, Destroy Siorc Ingne's Reputation In One Easy Step. He was gone, over, finished, guilty without contest. His dirty uniform would seal his fate, guaranteed.

Running faster than his legs could carry him, the hyena let out a pant. But, as he attempted to catch his breath, Baron dragged him forward into the hedges within the bushes. Youngest amongst the penguin telling him to shush, quiet his footsteps, they soon bellowed a whisper.

"Don't worry about being guilty," Baron whispered. "All of us have been recording and documenting those lookalikes for over a week now and we have compiled all our proof into a scrapbook for the judges." Pushing on his shoulders, they dragged the man forward.

Guided back into the guestroom, the soldier could feel his body twitch up a storm. What would the penguin chimera's evidence do? It was not going to do anything this time, for sure. The citizens had seen his uniform covered with the stolen cakes. He was guilty, charged, convicted. Thoughts repeating themselves on loop as he was about to drop into the world of tormenting dreams, one final set of words came with him in the land of the subconscious.

He was toast.

***

"It's over. I am done for. I am

Absolutely, positively, without a doubt, done for. Your
Majesty, I am sorry, I

Did not see this
Outcome coming. That the villains would start a smear campaign.
No, my reputation is already ruined.
Everything has already crumbled.
For I am toast. Burned, gone.
Obviously, there's no way I'll be found innocent this time.
Really, no one is allowed to mess with the Hydro Archon's cakes. It's over for me."

Jolted awake for the morning, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Was Kaiser at it again with his waking shenanigans? But, a different figure stood before him by the bed frame. Malika in the corner with a suit in her hands, the soldier wished he had broken heart hairpins right now.

"It's time to go to court," Malika said in a somber tone. "You're going to have to wear a suit again, my apologies, darling." Handing him the clothing, she soon cruised the subject over towards a huge book in the corner. "Don't worry about being found guilty. We will be holding onto a book we need of the compiled evidence." Placing the tome underneath her arms, she soon continued. "We promise we will present it after -------- shows up with his piece."

Changing himself into the imprisoning suit, the early adult felt back the urge to shed tears. Why did he have to wear this awful suffocating fancy dress wear? But, he supposed it did not matter what he were to wear. Soon, he would be in a criminal jumpsuit and thrown behind bars for forevermore.

Nerves calming themselves as the Aquabus took him to the Marcotte Station, the hyena prepared himself. Perhaps, just maybe, he would not be found guilty this time. Surely, the evidence the penguin quartet came across and whatever the diver boy had found would save him. Soon reaching the station, the Archon's bodyguard awaited him once more.

"Come with me," the Archon's bodyguard demanded.

Purple haired person escorting him to the courthouse, the soldier gazed at her for a moment. Why would the champion duelist of Fontaine waste her time with being the bodyguard of the God of Justice? Weren't the divine far stronger than humans? But, the chimera threw such thoughts off a cliff. Maybe the Archon needed an extra protective hand.

Archon's bodyguard soon dragging him up onto the stage, an sea of boos drowned him as he had seated himself in the accused chair. Ocean of disapproval forming a tsunami, the word had begun to carve the chimera deep. Crowd chanting one after another he was guilty, just sentence him already, the hyena's body grew cold. Chatter continuing for minutes on end, a cane had been banged upon the wooden seats from high up above.

"Settle down!" the Iudex shouted. Crowd soon silenced, he turned towards the hawk chimera. "We will now begin the trial. What does the accusation have to say?"

"With pleasure, Iudex!" Robin shouted at the top of his lungs. He then pointed at the hyena. "We saw this fiend running around committing various crimes while we were hunting bounties!" He then turned towards Raven. "Tell the audience what we saw, Raven!"

"Of course, hon," Raven responded. "This individual, we saw him vandalize and burgle various innocent people. But, my bounty hunter partner's eyes see all."

Raven going down a verbal list of every single crime committed by his many doppelgangers, including the cake theft, the hyena's ears twitched. These bird chimeras, they were always out to get him, no matter what. Were they in on this smear campaign, too? Whoever started this, they had to have told the two of them to accuse him of a crime to get him into court for a unanimous guilty trial.

"Once a Fatui, always a Fatui!" one of the crowd members shouted.

"You may as well lock this criminal up right now!" another crowd member shouted.

Audience chattering about him for minutes on end, the soldier could feel his blood become ice. Just how gullible were the generic nobodies? But, he supposed the lookalikes had seeded themselves deep within their commitment to have him seen as guilty. It was over, he was not going to be able to scrape himself out of this one.

"And does the accused have anything to say in defense?" the Iudex asked.

Inquiry coming his way, the soldier could feel multiple buttons inside him push. Right, he had to say something. Something, anything to come to his defense. Surely, just maybe, saying something would steer him away from a guilty verdict. He had to try his luck right here and now.

"There's no way I could have committed any of those crimes!" Siorc shouted, voice shaking. "I was on duty!"

"On duty stealing and vandalizing, I bet!" one of the crowd members shouted.

"He's trying to act all innocent when he's guilty!" another crowd member shouted. "Lock him up!"

Audience chanting in unison to lock him up, the first guilty light lit itself up upon the Oratrice. Seeing such, the early adult's eyes shrunk in size. Will draining away as the scales tipped, the chimera buried his face into his knees. It was over, he was done for. His guilty fate was now sealed.

"This fiend stole my sweets!" the hydro archon screamed out of turn. "And had the audacity to write all hail the abyss on the walls of the city! How could this fiend do such a thing to me, the Hydro Archon, the Regina of all Waters?"

Crowd chattering amongst themselves that he was an evil monster, the soldier buried his face further into his knees. Why was this happening? Who in the world smears buildings with cake to write out a message? He was toast, done, as good as arrested. But, the accusations would not rest.

"He even covered his uniform with the evidence!" Robin added. "Citizens of the courtroom, is this vile villain someone you want walking amongst you?"

Audience chanting one after another to lock him in on repeat, the soldier could feel his body turn into stone and take his life away. There was no possible way he could refute this. His uniform, it had been covered in cake. He was done for, toast, gone, good as arrested. Back in the world of no sunlight forever.

"Order!" the Iudex shouted, banging his cane. "Robin, do not speak out of turn." He then turned towards the audience. "Does anyone have anything to say against this claim?"

People chattering that this case should be over already, this monster was guilty, the chimera closed his eyes. Not seeing the penguins in the audience, the hyena could feel his trust waver. Malika, Earl, Baron and Kaiser, where were they? He had let his trusting door open for too long.

Hearing the strange sound of a magical poof from the audience, the early adult's ears perked. What was going on just now? Penguin crew and diver boy appearing in the audience, the soldier swore he could hear someone in the background say viola. Baron grabbing the tome of evidence from Malika, they stepped forward towards the leading justice.

"We have evidence," the diver boy said quietly. As he said such, Baron opened up the tome.

"This photobook has all the photos you need to prove his innocence," Baron said, pointing at a photograph. "The facts are all here. All of you in the audience should see the reality in front of you. This Fatui did not do anything he is being accused of." He then turned towards --------, show everyone the evidence."

"We saw this person wearing a wig smearing the walls," the diver boy said. But, a magician out of nowhere spoke over him.

"I, the greatest magician, will make the one of the culprits appear in the audience!" the magician boasted. "Viola! If you turn your attention to the magic box, I present to you all, the true perpetrator to the crimes!"

Magical box opening up, a short, androgynous green haired individual with shaking black eyes and an archaic robe from many centuries past, the soldier's heart skipped four beats. He remembered now. The snake who tried to jump off the roof of the apartments in Mondstadt. What was Kigyo doing here? This person, he had never done anything to the life. Why were they one of the culprits?

Audience screaming questions about why would this person impersonate a Fatui kid? And some saying who in their right mind would ever pretend to be such a villainous group of people, the scales had begun to tip once more. Seeing such, the early adult closed his eyes. He was seen as the villain no matter what. Guilty or innocent, it did not matter, in the eyes of the generic nobodies, he was evil scum to the planet and everyone in it.

"This impersonator he was too talkative," the diver boy testified.

Eyes soon on Kigyo, the hyena could not help but feel a pity cherry drop down into his throat. The audience, were they all going to turn on the medusa now? He knew that whatever was about to come the snake's way, the person was about to be humiliated by the peanut gallery, without question.

"Yes, I'm one of the culprits!" Kigyo exclaimed. "But, I only did this so I would be awarded the death sentence!"

"The death sentence will not be happening," the Iudex responded. "We will now begin the vote."

Crowd pointing fingers at the medusa, the soldier could hear the audience chatter on and on. Audience calling the snake a cake stealing monster and evil burglar, the hyena closed his eyes. The gorgon played his hands into the doppelganger smear campaign in hopes of being handed out the death sentence? Why did this person wish to end the life so much? But, he supposed it was no business of his why that might be.

Oratrice with a name longer than he cared to remember spitting out a paper towards the Iudex, the innocent judgement had come the soldier's way. Scales moving ever so slightly as such had been announced, a weight threw itself off his shoulders. He was free.

Archon sitting on her chair sulking, chatter about the Hydro archon getting it all wrong, the hyena blinked. Why was the audience judging her so harshly? Surely, even the gods made errors in their judgement every once in awhile. Woman with all her flamboyance soon raising her head, she soon flapped her gums to the audience.

"Doppelgangers? How was I supposed to know that?!" the hydro archon asked. But, the chatter continued.

Archon's bodyguard hauling the gorgon off, the soldier swore he could hear the snake say that the person was tricked along with many others to commit such crimes. But, such had not been the end of such facts. Hawk chimera accidently slipping his lips, another fact soon revealed himself.

"Someone tried to approach me to commit these crimes, too!" Robin shouted, pointing. "That vile hooded vagrant! I shall bring them to justice!"

Hawk revealing some backhanded evidence that should have been used earlier, the soldier stared off at the opera house walls. All of this, it reeked of the abyssal gazelles. They had to have been the ones behind all of this, guaranteed. Courtroom soon clearing out, only the penguin quartet remained.

Party of four stating they would keep on the lookout for the imposters and bring them to justice, the hyena bid the group farewell, for the time being. But, as he had soon exited the opera house, a blinding light engulfed the chimera. Closing his eyes for a moment, he could feel himself move elsewhere.

Finding himself plastered to a willow tree, the soldier squirmed at the sight of the abyssal gazelles smirking from the air. Twisting his limbs into pretzel knots for minutes on end, maniacal laugher blew breeze upon the wind. Theatrics soon kicking into overdrive, the climax hit its peak.

"It's not over yet!" Kelebek shouted. "He should see what else you have planned!"

"Watch as the abyss takes back what's ours!" Izzet shouted. "Nyahahaha!" Throwing their plaything on the ground, their smirk grew five sizes. "We're done playing with for today, meddlesome plaything. Bye bye!"

Blinding light overtaking once more, the soldier had found himself outside the opera house once more. Head spinning, the hyena stared off into space. What just happened, where had he been taken to? But, his thoughts were soon cut short as the Agent's boots stomped towards him.

"Diplomatic Solider Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You must report to Her Majesty immediately."

Order coming his way, the soldier's knees buckled. He had to go to the palace right now? Her Majesty, had she heard about the two court cases? He was in trouble, guaranteed. Removing the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket, the hyena highlighted the waypoint near the Cryo Archon's palace. Closing his eyes as the fast travel began, fear swallowed the soldier whole.

Stepping into Her Majesty's palace, the hyena walked upon her carpet in a careful manner. Placing himself into a kneeling position, the soldier bowed in submission to the Cryo Archon, but as he raised his head, the fear took him away. Her Majesty, why was there a smirk on her face? He was in trouble, for sure.

"I heard what happened while in Fontaine, my lovely chimera," Her Majesty said royally. "I have a nice present for you."

The hyena gulped upon hearing Her Majesty had a present for him. Her Majesty, was she about to gift him with death? The court cases, had they disappointed her? If he outlived his uselessness, he supposed he had it coming. Anticipation of his last few moments breathing swallowing him, the present had soon been slapped into his currently human hands.

Silver handgun plopped into his palms, the early adult's heart skipped five beats. Her Majesty, why was she giving him this? A gun, a pistol, a weapon of war, murder. Deep smile appearing on her face as it sat down in his hands, a realization washed over him, in an instant. The gun, she expected him to use it. Pull the trigger, blow someone's brains. As panic bubbled inside him, tears stained his eyes. No way, he couldn't do it. There was no way he could pull the trigger.

"Use this gift to warn your impersonators, my lovely chimera," Her Majesty demanded. Her words were cold as ice.

Demand coming his way, the soldier could feel his entire body shake. Shoot his impersonators? No way, there was absolutely no way he could do something like that. Absolutely not, no. Harm someone with bullets? No way. He wouldn't dream of it, he could never allow himself to harm someone in such a way. Words pushing through his throat, they soon released themselves.

"No, Your Majesty, I'm sorry, I can't!" Siorc shouted, voice shaking.

Hearing her lovely chimera reject her gift, the Tsaritsa's face twisted into a sinister look of darkness. How dare her lovely chimera think he could reject the lovely gift she was so generous to provide for him. He would be punished greatly for saying the two letter word to her.

Rescinding her gift from her property's hands, the Cryo Archon aimed the pistol low. As the bullets danced on the air and did a triple somersault, the weapon of war kicked the hyena's left hip with the valor of a hundred soldiers. Magazine quickly reloaded, the dance restarted itself. Kick line of power opening a hole upon the joint, the worms snuggled themselves into the chimera as a sea of red decorated the palace carpet four times over.

Puddle of crimson decorating Her Majesty's carpet, the early adult heart beat harder and faster in his chest for minutes on end. Apologize, yes, he had to apologize. He had to show his remorse for uttering the forbidden two letter word he was not allowed to say. He had to show his regret right this instant.

"Your Majesty, I'm sorry, I didn't mean it!" the hyena exclaimed in an apologetic tone. "I'll do it! Please, forgive me!"

Hearing the pathetic trash beg for forgiveness, a dark smile graced Her Majesty's face. Cute, he thinks he deserved mercy for rejecting her gift. "It's too late for apologies," Her Majesty responded. "My lovely chimera." She stroked her property's cheek, dry ice touching down. "You've gone and ruined my carpet. Get out of my sight!" She let out a maniacal laugh. "Oh, and next time you reject my gifts, I'll have that doctor do as he pleases with you!"

Expelled from the palace, the soldier dashed through the door as fast as his legs would carry him. Adrenaline the only energy that remained, the hyena's head spun as his feet dragged through the snow. Body swaying as he continued to press onward, the world around him grew black. Unconsciousness taking him away, one final set of thoughts took over.

He shouldn't have uttered the two letter word.

Feeling his body move forward as he had come to, the soldier found a familiar back carrying him. But, as the person trekked through the snow, the dazed world ate up all the rational thoughts that remained. Who was carrying him? Placed into a bed, a generic face stared back at him.

Man putting on a mask, the hyena blinked. His practice partner, what was he doing here? How did he find him? But his mind muddied as the dizziness slurped on his brain like a plate of bolognese. Muffled words telling him to rest, the soldier closed his eyes. World of unconsciousness knocking on the door once more, one final thought wrapped vines around the chimera.

He shouldn't have said no to the gun.

Chapter 11: Meropide Investigation: Rogue Bots

Chapter Text

"This is starting to make no sense.
Her Majesty and her orders,
Each and every time, they're getting.

Far more complicated.
Oh, this time it's a prison.
Really, Your Majesty?
Even I know it'll be next
To impossible to break into one of those. It's out of my
Reach. Beyond me.
Everything makes no
Sense. What does
She want from me?

Of course, I have to just but to go there,
For now I

Mustn't question it.
Even though I know this will fail,
Relatively speaking, my
Options are zero.
Perhaps it will go fine.
I don't know.
Does she really think I can do this alone?
Even I know this will not be easy.

Of course not, this is
Fontaine's highest security prison.

And, I'm certain I'll be caught
Look, people know I'm a member of the Fatui.
Look, people are obviously suspicious of me.

Please, Your Majesty, think clearly,
Less about conquering.
Ah, if she knows I'm a questioning her, she will
co*ck that gun she tried to gift me.
Even so, I cannot fail, or
She'll kill me.

I have to succeed. I

Have to infiltrate successfully.
Any more slipups and her
Vehemence will destroy me.
Everything has to go perfectly, according

To her plan. I must not be
Open to mistakes.

Grab that door and shut it.
Obviously, this is

The big one, what
Her Majesty will
Expect the most out of me.
Right, do all and
Everything according to plan.

Will she be watching me?
How, from underground, I do not know, but
Yes, she will be watching.

Yes, her eyes will be all
Over me, so I have to do my
Utmost, and do all I can,
Research thoroughly.

Make it my mission to find
All and everything.
Just do more than try my best.
Each and every single
Second counts.
These malicious energy sources,
Your Majesty I will vanquish them.

The prisoners might question me,
However, this is my duty.
I cannot falter.
Silence is key.

Will there be suspicious cast upon me?
I have to brush it off.
Look the other way.
Look the other direction.

Nothing can distract me,
Or everything will fail. Diligence,
That is key.

Which is how it always should be. This mission may be
Out of the ordinary, and
Rather a strange location to be, but I
Know I can't complain.

Open myself to this opportunity,
Ultimately, that is key.
This mission may be shaky, but I am ready."

Four days had passed since the hyena went to Annapausis and collected the legendary sword and robot sunflowers for Her Majesty. Jobs remaining within Fontaine immediately after, the next two days were a mess of chaotic measures. Certain odd job returning with a vengeance, everything was out of the ordinary.

Requested to return to the underground city of Fleuve Cendre, helping the less fortunate with tasks they were unable to perform, forty-eight hours of hijinks ensued. Plentiful of fish steaks cooked as well, a stressful two days kicked into overdrive. But, something had been off the entire time he had been given such a task.

As the hyena went around various areas throughout the Nation of Justice, the soldier swore he had seen people that looked exactly like him committing various crimes one after another. Multiple accusations coming his way one after another, a second court case had been filed against the chimera.

Second court case finding him innocent, the smear campaign went absolutely nowhere. But, his innocence was not the end of the means. Cryo Archon requesting an audience with him, a horrific order and gift had been delivered to the soldier. Forbidden two letter word sent back to Her Majesty, a punishment had been delivered to him instead. Fourth and final day being business affairs of nothing, a workday of pain closed out the ninety-six hours.

The sound of morning alarm bells struck with a bombastic uproar as the minutes paraded onward. As the alarm bells continued to rack up their cacophonous uproar, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in a chorus. The alarm bells were right on time in punctuality, as usual. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.

The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never being mad aware of such alarm bells, the soldier lifted himself upward from the rock hard covers. But, as he had attempted to do so, the hyena's left hip throbbed for minutes on end. Trying to tune out the pain, the early adult placed his currently human feet on the icy cold ground. The time had come to start the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier attempted to walk towards his uniform drawers, the throb took over the hyena. Unable to move forward, a scream bounced off and around the steel walls. The pain he had experienced would not leave his short body. Dropping himself downward onto all fours, the chimera trudged downward like the animal he partially was.

Reaching his uniform drawers barely after a few minutes, the early adult grabbed the edges of his uniform drawers. Winter jacket grabbed in a swift manner, the hyena took a long deep breath. He had to numb out the throbbing sensation, or he would be a useless disappointment to Her Majesty, without question.

As his uniform melted onto his partially human person, the soldier could not help but wonder. Her Majesty, why would she resort to using a gun on him? Was he no longer useful for her? But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. Why was he thinking about such things? He needed to focus on getting ready.

But, as the soldier reached for his jewelry and accessory box, the hip throbbing intensified to over eleven. Letting out a scream, the world froze, for a moment. Attempting to calm himself down, the soldier took further deep breaths. Why was he letting pain dominate him? He had no time to allow such. He had to focus.

Clicking the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place, matching roses adorned the soldier's hair and ears. Hoping the flowers would give him the first wind he needed, the early adult prayed to the Dendro Archon he was not supposed to worship. Feeling a smidgeon of energy flow through him, the hyena adjusted his glasses, for a moment.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier gazed at the yellow-green orb, for a moment. He supposed he understood why he was granted the powers of nature now. Dragging his feet towards the edge of the room, the early adult slipped on his heelless shoes over his currently human legs.

As the soldier devoured his flavorless rations, the hyena could not help but wonder. What could possibly await him today? He knew, whatever it might be, he could not disappoint Her Majesty, or another punishment would come for him. Messing up was not an option; everything had to be perfect.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march about militaristically, the hyena put on the most diplomatic face possible. Time had run out, the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Slapping his cheeks, the early adult attempted to focus. His workday was about to begin any moment now. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera turned his attention towards the door. It was time for his diplomatic day of anything to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out one cue. "You will be infiltrating the Fortress of Meropide as a new guard to investigate a problem." He paused for a moment. "As well as cleaning up the surrounding areas of vermin in the Liffey Region." A uniform shook in his hands as he said such. "This is your uniform for this mission. Get changed, soldier."

Pitch black prison guard uniform with purple coattails dropped into his hands, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. He had to infiltrate a high security prison? There is no way this plan will succeed whatsoever. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter given his subordinate a nod, the masked Agent stepped out, for a moment.

Removing his winter jacket and brown pants, the early adult let out a scream as the guard uniform leg covers glued themselves onto his partially human person. Hip continuing its throbbing rampage for minutes on end, another shout pierced through the windows. Commotion only gaining volume, another scream added itself to the mix.

"Soldier, what's wrong?" the Agent asked.

Hearing a wave of irritation in the Agent's voice, the early adult took a long deep breath. Why was he letting a part of his body dominate him? He needed to let numbness take the lead. Turning towards his subordinate, the soldier let the robotic words take the lead.

"Nothing, sir," the hyena responded autonomously.

Agent turning back around the early adult resumed the redressing the body. pitch black uniform buttoned closed, and tiny hat soon covering his hairpin, the early adult could feel slight energy leave his body. But, the soldier attempted with all his might to push the fatigue away. He was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for such tiredness. Everything on, the soldier headed towards the door.

"I am ready, sir," the soldier said, listless.

"Good, we're going, soldier," the Agent responded. Bag soon slammed on the soldier's back, the Agent gripped the wrist in a far more gentle manner than normal. Realizing such, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had he been informed what had happened? But, the chimera threw such thoughts out the window. As the escort to Fontaine began, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

What could possibly await in the Fortress of Meropide?

He supposed he would soon find out.

***

"Do your job properly, Zack.
Oh, how many times have I heard that? First off,

My name is not 'Zack,' well,
Yes, I suppose, in this life, that is the name I have been given. But, I

Just refuse to go by it. It is Huxian.
Oh, that's line again, do your job properly.
Best guess that's the hundredth time, no, thousandth time I've heard that one.

Please stop saying it.
Right, just do my guard work.
Or rather, our guard work.
Pixiu is told the same set of lines
Every time by that spiky haired man in that prison.
Really, how many times are you going to say?
Listen, you'll forget that we ever existed
Yes, at some point, we will be reborn once again.

That time will come,
However, it is best to think about now.
Every time we get complained to that we are doing our jobs wrong,
You bet we say that we

Still are doing
As we are told.
Yes, we are. We are guarding these waters.

I get told again, "Zack, you're supposed to

Defeat the Red Meanies like we asked
Of you two.'

Not this again. My name is not Zack, and my sister's name is not Monique.
Oh, how do I defeat whatever
These plants are called again?

Guess that I will use my cross.
Even though I do not recall what
These 'Red Meanies' entail.

Well, whatever. We'll just
Have to find them, I guess.
And every time, each and every
Tick, we are unable to

Take out those plants.
How many times are we going to get an
Earful over this. Do
You know how many times we've heard from the boss,

'Monique, Zack, we asked you for one simple job.'
Every single time.
And, what am I supposed to do? I have
No ability to use the elements,

At least, I do not think so.
Maybe leave this to someone who

Is able to conjure that.

No, we have to do
Our jobs, or whatever.
The Liffey Region is apparently our

Domain. In this life
Our selves were raised here, or something.
It's a constant cycle of death and rebirth.
No matter how many times we relive this,
Guess our uselessness remains.

Though, it is what it is.
How it is and
Always will be.
This is a never-ending journey."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the Teleport Waypoint like usual, the early adult stared off into space. This is absolutely ridiculous. Why couldn't the Agent take him somewhere closer to the Liffey Region? But, the hyena knew such would never happen. He needed to let such fact stick.

Boat summoned out of nowhere like usual, the hyena had been dragged down the mountains. Plopped into the wooden vessel, the early adult attempted with all his might to remain still. Vehicle of manpower cruising through the waters, the soldier stared off towards the harbor off in the corner.

As the vessel passed by a docked boat, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. His disguise, would people see through it? Surely, there was no way he would be able to reach the Fortress of Meropide without getting suspicious eyes on him. His face had been known throughout all of the Nation of Justice.

Vehicle soon docked, the soldier's legs had soon been dragged towards the staircase, like always. Agent informing him once again that he was not allowed to teleport anywhere whatsoever, the early adult held back the urge to pull out locks of his hair. Why did he continue to remind him of the same information over and over again? He knew of such fact already. But, the chimera kept himself quiet.

Agent soon departing, the early adult struggled up the stairwell for minutes on end. Trudging himself towards the glass lift, the temporary fortress guard's ears rumbled at the sound of chatter as he pushed himself towards the Aquabus station. Long line practically hitting the wall, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Had there been another court case right around the corner? But, as he blended himself in with the crowd, a peculiarity took the stage.

Multiple rich people thanking him for his service, many offers to cut the line had come his way. Hearing such line thrown his way for minutes on end, a sea of questions flowed through the soldier. Just what kind of authoritative power did his uniform contain? How odd. Shaking his head, reaching the front of the line never came into fruition.

Aquabus arriving after fifteen minutes, everyone bolted into their seats. Seating himself towards the edge like always, the Melusine's comment about it being a full house again shook the waters beneath. Tour guide stating they are heading to the Court of Fontaine, the vessel of automatic prowess soon moved.

As the vehicle passed by the Poisson tunnel, the chimera could not help but wonder. The Fortress, would they be suspicious of him? Surely, there was no way that hadn't memorized what every single guard already looked like and had been given photos ahead of time of new ones employed. There was no way he would be able to cross through the first hurdle.

Every single rich citizen in front of him chattering onward about some sort of magic show at the Opera Epiclese, the early adult gazed at the path in the corner. Another magic show was being held again? But, he supposed entertainment was always going to flow itself through the waters when the legal world was not center stage.

Melusine soon stating most people reach Fontaine through Chenyu Vale as the capital city drew closer, the soldier could not help but wonder. Just how many harbors were there in Fontaine? Had the Romaritime Harbor been the most popular? He supposed, in the long run, it did not matter much.

Capital city soon reached, the hyena removed himself from the vessel. Dragging his feet through the city, the temporary fortress guard headed off towards the northwest pathway. He knew, in order to reach the mountains, he would have to use the glass lift to reach the highest floor within the city.

As the soldier passed by the meka garde station, the soldier could not help but wonder. Was there a limitless supply of replacements? He supposed such had to have been the case. Throwing such thoughts away as he kept going, multiple merchants spoke out loud about making a fortune.

Stepping near the strange fountain hearing an elderly man in Snezhnayan wear screaming something was not about the money, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Had there been a Fatui spy planted within the Court of Fontaine while he was away? But, the early adult turned his focus elsewhere. He needed to focus on leaving the city.

Stepping towards the Aquabus information center, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Multiple people standing around everywhere seating themselves, the hyena swore he could hear a young person ask about a water fairy. Attempting to tune out everything, the chimera sauntered onward towards the glass lift.

But such movement had been halted as a familiar pest had stepped out of the elevator. Pesky penguin thorn in his side walking towards him, the early adult let out a groan. Could he ever walk through Fontaine without running into Earl? The Hydro Archon had to have laid a curse upon him. Eyes soon on him, there was no escape.

Seeing his future husband in a guard outfit stepping towards the elevator, Earl's eyes practically had sparkles in them. Is he heading towards Mount Esus? He needed to butter him up and get on his good side about his brand new job. Surely, that would win him over a little.

"Hi again, Siorc, that uniform looks good on you!" Earl greeted, giggling. He then composed himself. "Are you heading for Mount Esus East? I'd be cautious, if I were you! Robin and Raven are out there!" He then extended his gloved hand. "Let me take you there so I can keep you safe!"

The chimera let out a sigh. He knew if he refused the pesky thorn in his side would make a scene. Accepting his fate, the hyena gave the well dressed penguin a nod. Hearing him let out a tiny cheer, the early adult let out a barely audible groan. It was going to be a long walk.

Glass lift cruising upwards for minutes on end, the early adult gazed at Earl, for a moment. Why was he always wherever he happened to be, at the moment? But, the chimera shook such thought off. It had to have just been some sort of coincidence. He was a busy partially human person always on the move.

Lift soon stopping on the third floor, the soldier could feel Earl pulling him towards the city's exit. Moving towards a damp waterway, another glass lift soon awaited the party of two. Soon in the area's outskirts, the chimera gazed at the grass around him. Hand soon let go of, the party of two stepped upon the beds of Dendro creation.

But, as the soldier had begun to head northward, the chimera's left hip had begun to erupt like a volcano. Knees bending as he could feel himself drag himself forward, the early adult attempted with any might to try and hide such action. But, such was impossible as the penguin's eyes were glued onto him.

Spotting Siorc limping in the corner, a wave of concern flowed through like water breaking a river dam. Had he injured himself since he had last seen him? It was time to be let him become his third shoulder, if such were the case. Extending his arm, he left himself open.

Earl offering to lend him a shoulder, the early adult leaned up against the penguin. He supposed he was grateful for his assistance. Crutch pushing him forward upon the pathway, the group kept walking upon the northern pathway for moments to come. But, such traverse towards the mountains had been immediately halted.

Peculiar ring objects that did not belong above water a wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. What were those underwater mechanisms doing here? Something was not right. Whatever they had been doing here, they had to be taken care of, without any question.

Tugging onto the side of Earl's suit, eyes were soon on the chimera. Pointing at the ring in the corner, inquiries had come the temporary fortress guard's way. Mouthing that the obstacles had to be vanquished, excitable battle cries leaked from the thorn in his side's throat.

Gauntlets soon slapped over Earl's palms, a punching session had soon begun. Ball of aquatic properties pushing itself towards the ring slowly, but surely, the chimera threw himself into the mix. Mechanical gloves at the bottom of his satchel, the dual punch out took the stage.

Entire layer of obstacles making themselves at home throughout the pathway north of the court city, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. How did so many of such foreign objects make themselves known in the surface world? Someone had to have planted them where they did not belong, for sure.

Aquatic ball held hostage by a black sea of rocks, the hyena could feel a chill drop down his spine. Had there been a rockslide in Fontaine recently? Something had been quite off about the pathway in front of him. Earl vanquishing the minerals one after another, the soldier pushed the ball back into its hole. Multiple objects chaining together into a circular enclosure, the party of two kept heading towards the northeastern path.

But, the beaches had been as littered as the grassy pathway. Floating devices making themselves at home above the sediment, the early adult could feel his energy take a deep, for a moment. Hadn't he already destroyed all of those machines almost a month prior? Their presence was haunting.

Yellow and purple blocks everywhere near the ocean bed, the soldier grabbed the energy deposits as though his life depended on it. Wind currents whistling on the air, the hyena deployed his wind glider. Punches gifted to the first machine, the chimera let out a battle cry. Mechanical bug monsters coming out from the ashes, robotic casualties faded into ashes.

Earl taking on the machines lower to the ground, the hyena continued with all his might to continue the cleanup in front of him. Robotic insects removed on repeat, the soldier gazed at the world around him. Whoever placed the mechanisms here had to have some sort of objective.

Final set of floating machines taken out of the picture, the party of two kept heading upon the northern path. Eastern side of the mountains nearing, the soldier prepared himself. Any minute now, and he would be in hawk and falcon territory. If he were to be spotted, his right hip would become the next casualty on the injury list.

The sky had ears.

Multiple arrows raining down towards him as the chimera pressed onwards towards the mountains, the hyena crooked his head upwards towards the sky. Robin already on the offensive, the soldier grit his teeth. Eyes of a hawk, indeed. Just how far away did his vision reach? Passing through his territory was an impossibility to be had, for sure.

Weapon barrage ready to pelt him down at any given moment, Earl had soon become a shield. Arms stretched out in front of him, the early adult could feel his heart leap out of his chest. Why was the penguin protecting him? He would only become the hawk's next target upon his bounty list for sticking his neck out.

"Leave my future husband alone!" Earl shouted.

Fatui in his territory once again with his little penguin subordinate, Robin staged his heroic landing. How dare this man step into his hunting ground and protect that vile villain. He needed to learn the hard way that the Fatui were evil vagrants of injustice. This fiend's accomplice was treading dark waters.

"Why do you keep protecting that Fatui, penguin?" Robin asked, pointing. "Have you no sense of danger? He's going to pull you into his vile schemes!" But, a voice soon cut in.

"Hon, what are you yammering about? That's a prison guard!" Raven exclaimed. "Methinks you got him confused for someone else."

Hearing his partner's words, Robin could feel his cheeks glow red. Gazing at the so called guard in the corner, he lowered his eyes into a squint. Unmistakable messy purple hair blowing on the wind, he pounded his talons together. His lover had to have been mistaken. This man was that Fatui fiend, for sure.

Earl soon whispering in his ear instructions on how to sound like a Fontaine person, the hyena could hardly believe his ears at the words being played into his eardrums. He had to say verily so? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. There was no way he would be able to sound like a convincing Fontainan. Taking a deep breath, the soldier forced himself into a baritone.

"Excuse me, dear bounty hunters, but I must pass through these mountains," the hyena said, voice forced into a deep pitch. "Verily so." As he said such, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. Did he just mimic a garde's voice? How strange.

Familiar voice calling out to him, Robin placed his hand on his chin. This guard certainly was fishy. But, maybe he had made a mistake. But, there was no way he would admit to such, not a chance. He supposed, if they truly were a guard from the fortress it was best to get his passage through the area over with.

"Fine, go through!" Robin shouted. "Thank you for your service!"

Hawk and falcon flying away faster than his eyes could follow, the hyena shook his head. Had he felt some sort of embarrassment? He supposed he would feel such a way, too if he had been told he was completely off the mark about something. Pushing through the foot of the mountain, a sea of peculiar obstacles soon awaited.

Water ring and their balls separated by a watery flower bulb, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just his imagination, or had there been a dark aura surrounding the obstacles? Surely, it had to have just been his imagination. Inanimate enemy ready to get on the offensive, punches had devoured the plant of the sea.

Bubbles soon engulfing the area, the soldier could feel himself begin to float. Aquatic prison pushing him away, the hyena could feel himself struggle for minutes on end. Plant only trapping him further as the sea of soapy orbs took him away on repeat, the side of the fight had made itself known.

Earl's planty punches of doom getting on the offensive, peculiar looking seeds planted themselves on the ground. Bulbous creature weakening as the seconds raged onward, the soldier could not help but wonder. Did Dendro and Hydro have some sort of interaction with one another? If such were the case, he was none the wiser.

Freed from the bubble prison, the peculiar underwater apparatus had soon been pushed into its hole. Continuing onward towards the northern pathway, multiple machines had their balls returned to them, with a monstrous twist. Body of water leading towards the underwater Liffey region world beneath, Earl halted his movement, for a moment.

Wristwatch dinging, Earl could feel the hairs on his back stick up. Shoot, did his alarm just go off? Gazing at the arrows on his timer, he could feel his siblings nagging him all the way from Sumeru. Oh, no, he was supposed to be in Bayda Harbor by now. Baron is going to kill him.

"Oh, shoot, that's right, I'm supposed to be at Bayda Harbor right about now!" Earl shouted. "Sorry, Siorc, I have to go!" As he said such, he ran off like a speeding bullet.

Watching as Earl dashed off faster than his eyes could keep up, the early adult blinked. If he had somewhere he had to be, he should not have stopped everything he was doing to assist him. But, the soldier threw such thoughts away. What did he care? Whatever trouble he was about to get himself into was his own problem.

Recalling the Agent had told him to clear out all other obstacles before heading off to the underwater prison, the early adult steeled himself. Removing everything else before going into the world of criminals? Such would be like walking on cake. Diving suit soon upon him, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment.

Mind and diving suit synced up to one another, the soldier threw himself into the body of water beside him. Sea bed full of pipes soon upon him, the early adult scouted the area. Red Meanies feeding on the aquatic world everywhere the eye could see, the chimera readied himself for action. It was time to begin mission cleanup.

As the soldier had his diving suit thrusting him forward towards the first pipe, the peculiar otter people appeared within his submerged field of vision. Duo hovering over the malicious plants with puzzled looks on their faces, the soldier stood still, for a moment.

Otter duo holding crosses within their paws, energy channeled into the centers, the party of two rammed their weapons into the plants labelled as sea bullies. Nothing doing for minutes on end, the soldier swore he could hear one of the otters says, no matter how many times they reverse back to zero, they're never any stronger, are they? Letting out a sigh, the soldier pressed the jellyfish bomb button upon his left glove. Aquatic explosive soon doing the honors, heads crooked towards him.

Seeing a small bomb destroy the invasive red plants otter number one turned his head towards the left. Who did that just now? Seeing the same purple haired stranger from last time, they blinked. This person, how did they do that just now? Great, their boss is going to let them have it again, and tell him the same old phrase. He was tired of hearing it. They needed to learn how that contraption off this person's worked.

"You again?" otter number one asked. "How did you do that just now?"

Siorc lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. How did these two otters not know how to destroy the Red Meanies? Didn't these two live and work down here? He supposed he could humor them by showing them his diving suit glove. Pointing to the buttons on his finger covering, the soldier kept the tip of his appendage beside the jellyfish button.

Purple haired suited up stranger pointing at a button with a jellyfish head symbol above it, otter number one, ran their paws through their spikes. What is this thing? How was he supposed to be able to fire a jellyfish? There was no way he could have his cross release such a thing. That glove of his made no sense.

"I see," otter number one said, shaking their head. "I don't get it." They then lowered their voice into a mumble. "Great, the duke is going to let me have it and tell me once again, 'Zack do your job properly.' Ho hum."

Hearing the otter proclaiming himself Zack mumble under his breath about not doing his job properly, the hyena shook his head. If he simply did not understand, he had no interest in teaching him whatsoever. Maybe it was best to just give the otter a duo the cold shoulder and continue onwards throughout the area.

Having his diving suit continue to thrust him upon the northern pathway, the sound of rapid paw strokes came up from behind him. Otter duo swimming towards him faster with every given second, the soldier clenched his teeth. Why were these two following him? If they didn't have buttons on their weapons, there was nothing he could do to teach them. Voices trailing behind him, guilt baked itself into a fish pie.

"You're going to leave just like that?" otter number two asked. "That's a little rude."

"Pixiu, don't waste your breath," otter number one responded to otter number two. "We're supposed to be cleaning up the red plants, anyway." His voice was monotone. "We'll just follow him and watch how he does it and copy him. Do you want the duke to say, 'Monique, Zack, do your job properly!' Again?"

"...No," the one called Pixiu and Monique responded. "Eh. Fine, I'll follow your lead."

Otters continuously following behind him as the diving suit thrusted him towards the next pipes, the soldier held back the urge to let out a groan. Didn't these two know that he could hear everything they were saying from behind him? How incredibly aggravating. They should keep their conversations amongst themselves. But, he supposed they were just trying to do their own jobs. He knew it was best to just let them crawl behind and ignore them.

Soon reaching the next sea of Red Meanies, the hyena turned his attention towards the otter duo. Looks as though their brains were absent from their skulls, the chimera tilted his head a smidgeon. How did these two not know how to destroy the invasive plant species by now? Surely, they had to have done this countless times before at this point. Perhaps, it was best to give them a moment to remember before vanquishing them himself.

Glowing red plant of many evils giving off a sinister aura, 'Zack' gazed at the enemy, for a moment. How were they supposed to defeat these things again? He did not recall. Every past instruction on how to do so was leaving him. His mind was as empty as a field of dead flowers in the depths of nowhere.

Strange flowers sucking on the water pipes, 'Monique' gazed at the plants of doom. Wait, how were these objects supposed to be cleared out again? She could not recall how to do so. How peculiar, her memories of the instructions had gone completely foggy. Where had they gone?

Otter duo staring at the red meanies with puzzled looks on their faces, the temporary fortress guard lead out a sigh. Did they seriously not know how to destroy these things? He supposed he had no choice but to once again show them how it was done. Pressing the jellyfish explosive button, the bomb had reared its head.

Explosive popping itself off, the invasive obstacles disintegrated within seconds. But, such had been the wrong angle. Group of flowers forgotten about, the soldier could feel his knees buckle. How did the explosive miss a couple of them? Perhaps, just maybe, he had to aim the ball better.

Thrusting the jellyfish head towards the cage in the corner, the soldier let it rip. Singular flower left out, the chimera could feel failure laugh at him. Why were there Red Meanies still lingering? Perhaps, just maybe, he had to destroy the singular one that was left behind then blow the rest up. Resolute on his decision, one lone invasive plant had been vanquished.

Explosive quickly dropped downward, the sea of plants had been removed from the equation. Nothing regenerating, the chimera thrusted himself upon the southern pathway. Traversal towards the next invaders not solo, the hyena could feel the questions about to bite his ear off once more.

"How did you do that?" the one called both Pixiu and Monique asked.

Inquiry coming his way after what felt like the thirtieth time, the soldier held back the urge to roll his eyes. Did these two have absolutely no idea what they were doing? He supposed he could lead them into destroying the strayed enemies with their crosses while his explosives took care of the rest.

Soon finding another sea of red meanies right in front of him, the chimera's xenochromatic jellyfish did the talking. First group soon vanquished, the otters stood around and did nothing for minutes on end. Diving suit thrusting him off towards the second collection of them, another explosive had soon been dropped downward.

Second collection of red meanies taken to their planted graves, the early adult turned towards the otter duo. Group looking at his attacks with emotionless awe, the hyena could feel his veins pop out of his blood vessels, for a moment. Were they just going to stand there? Maybe if he pointed at their crosses, they would do something.

Throwing down the third and final bomb of water, the early adult curled his thumb, pinky, ring and middle finger downward. Jabbing his index finger at the otter's crosses, the chimera tried with all his might to write the word swing upon the waters. But clueless faces kept rearing their heads for minutes on end.

Sea denizen duo still not catching onto anything, the soldier let the explosive take the lead. Were they not going to bother fighting at all? How annoying. If they were the kind of people to just stand around when someone did their work for them, he wanted no part of such whatsoever. Tasked to destroy vermin, or not.

Peculiar bomb thing exploding everything one after another, 'Zack' could feel a wave of shock flow through them. What in the world was this sorcery? He needed to ask the Duke to give him whatever this person had. Maybe he should introduce himself to the stranger and learn all his secrets.

"I just realized, neither of us introduced ourselves," otter number one said out of nowhere. "My name is Huxian. Not Zack." They then proceeded to brush their paws through their spiky hair.

"And my name is Pixiu," otter number two said. "We're Liffey Region guards."

Siorc held back the urge to scoff. These two were Liffey Region guards? He wasn't buying what they were selling at all. There was no way that was the case. Who would hire people who couldn't even destroy Red Meanies as guards? That had to have been the biggest stretch of the truth of all time.

Shoulders growing colder by the second, the soldier headed off towards the southeast pathway. Otters continuing to follow behind him, the soldier wrote a message upon the water for them to use their crosses on the strays. Surely, his wordless language would eventually enter their clueless skulls.

Next set of invasive plants awaiting him, the soldier relayed his message once again. Otter duo looking as though a lightbulb was about to appear over their heads, the dual crosses had been unleashed upon the stray bullies. Exploder soon adding itself to the mix, one set of foreign plants were removed from the equation. But, such help was thin wired.

Approaching the next set of meanies after a few minutes, puzzled looks soon appeared on the otter's faces. Seeing such, the early adult could feel irritation bubble into his veins once more. Did they forget what they had just done? How incredibly tiresome. They needed to get their memories looked into, for sure.

Otters continued to stare off into space with the most absent of minds, the hyena tossed down the next explosive upon the playing field. It could not be helped, he supposed. If they already forgot how to fight, it was his duty to clean up the rest of the mess. Continuing onward upon the southeastern path, everything dissolved into nothing as he cruised forward.

But, the easy switch would soon turn over into hard mode. Sea hare monsters nibbling on the Red Meanies as if they were their afternoon snack, power flowed through the creature. Balls of energy drowning the world around him, the tables turned upside down, backwards and inside out.

Sea denizen bending its tail backwards, a collection of globous red orbs had been thrusted towards the temporary fortress guard. Attempting with all his might to dodge, the early adult pressed the blade button upon his glove. Slashing forward for minutes on end, the hyena had his work cut out for him.

Huxian and Pixiu still standing around doing nothing, the soldier's knees buckled. Were these two going to just continue to sit by and watch with their mouths hanging open? Absolutely ridiculous. These were the area's guards? Whoever this duke was that hired them, they had made the biggest mistake.

Blade barely leaving a dent upon the enemy, the early adult held back the urge to scream. But, the hyena swallowed the shouts deep inside him. Why bother wasting his time shouting at the otter duo? They would continue to do nothing either way. Jellyfish explosive soon dropped down upon the invasive plants around the enemy, the chimera pressed the button once more.

Sea Hare's meal removed from the equation after four more attempts, the chimera prepared himself. Creature throwing projectiles his way one after another, the early adult soon pressed the armor button. Orbs boomeranged back towards the direction of which they came, the defenses had been in shambles.

Enemy's eyes soon spinning cycles, the soldier did the final honors. Creature soon becoming sea foam, the early adult let out a tired breath. Turning his head towards the right and left for a moment, no other invasive plant species awaited the soldier. Knowing such was his cue to head for the Fortress of Meropide, the chimera continued to tread towards the south. But, such had been met with immediate rejection.

Otters pushing themselves in front of him as he attempted to head towards the underwater building with bright lights, the early adult could feel his blood boil over, ready to evaporate. What did these two want from him now? What right did they have to try and stop him from going into the prison? Now was not the time for them to do their jobs correctly.

"Why are you heading off into this direction?" Pixiu asked, otter arms spread out. "That's the entrance towards the prison. You can't go in there."

Having his diving suit swim around the two otters, the chimera pressed onward. He can't go in there? Ridiculous. He wasn't about to let these two people who didn't even know how to fight stop him. They could impose their guard careers on someone else. But, as he continued to thrust towards the prison entranceway, he was stopped once more.

"As the Liffey region guards, we command you to stop," Huxian demanded.

The early adult let out a deep sigh. Were the otter twins going to continue to get in his way? Absolutely ridiculous. Would telling these two his mission of being the newly hired fortress guard have them stop trying to block his path? He supposed it would be worth a shot.

"I am the newly hired Fortress of Meropide guard, sir and madame," the hyena responded. "Please, allow my entrance."

Huxian scratched their otter claws through their spiky hair. The grand duke hired another guard? When had that happened? Maybe he had forgotten about it, or something. He supposed he could escort him into the Fortress if he were telling the truth. Why would someone lie about something like that anyway?

Pixiu blinked at the information presented to them. Huh, a new guard was hired? Interesting. This had to have been the first time she had heard of this. But, she guessed she had just forgotten about it. Maybe it was best to bring him down to the administrative office, for now.

"If what you're saying is true," Pixiu started, but she was soon cut off.

"We'll escort you through the entrance," Huxian finished. "It's this way, follow us."

Otters soon swimming upward and down into a hole, a sea of questions flowed through the hyena. The Fortress of Meropide's entrance wasn't through a door? How incredibly odd. Did a talking snake tell whoever made the prison doors were made for people who use doors?

Thrusting downward through a long passageway, the soldier could feel the walls begin to close in on him. Entrance way getting closer with every step, the early adult took a long deep breath. He was about to enter an entirely new world any second now. He needed to prepare himself for anything.

Sea boots soon hitting the ground with a metallic thrust, the world of the ocean soon ended. Finding himself in a room with very thin walls, the early adult soon removed his diving equipment. Otter duo soon in human form, the early adult studied them for a brief moment.

Huxian's spiky blue hair becoming an ashy grey adorning peculiar looking religious suit, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Were these two actually from Mondstadt? The other names they had said, Zack and Monique, they certainly sounded like they could be from the Nation of Freedom.

Pixiu's blue ponytail becoming a shade of medium white like some sort of oat filled breakfast, the hyena gazed at her outfit, for a moment. Light blue dress with buttons, the early adult could not help but think the otter's nose grew bigger, for a moment. Were these two truly guards? They looked like they were dressed up for church.

Party of two soon escorting him towards the administrative office in the front, the hyena swore he could hear the otters wheezing up a storm. Woman in the front giving him suspicious glances, the chimera could feel a chill run down his spine. Was he already about to get caught? He was done for.

"Zack, Monique, who's this?" the woman at the desk asked.

"He's the new guard that was hired recently," Huxian responded, deadpan.

"That's strange, I don't recall a new hire," the woman at the desk responded, finger on her chin.

"You...must....not....ha-a-a-ve h-ea-rd," Pixiu said, gasping for water.

Receptionist crawling around her brain for answers for awhile, the hyena turned his attention towards the world in front of him. Large metallic underground bastion filled to the brim with prisoners of all shapes and sizes, a wave of fear flowed through the chimera. If any of the inmates here were violent, he would need to keep himself on his toes.

Woman at the front desk eventually convinced she had merely forgotten a new guard had been hired, permission had been granted for his patrol to start. Stepping into the metallic world in front of him, the soldier could not help but feel an off wave upon the air. Was something going on here? Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to start investigating the administrative area first, and foremost. Guided towards a lift, a glass box took him downstairs.

Finding himself in a large room that circled around with many exits and doors everywhere, the chimera observed the prisoners around him once more. Many people dressed in normal clothing, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Did the people who were sent down here not have to wear black and white striped clothing like on those fantasy novels? How peculiar. But, he supposed not all prisons were created equal.

Guards giving him suspicious looks questioning who he was for minutes on end, unease grabbed ahold of the chimera's throat and would not let go. Were they already suspecting he was not truly a new guard amongst them? He was about to become the next new prisoner in the lot, for sure.

Looking around the area for anything unusual, the soldier could feel his heart skip a beat at the sight before him. Spotting a ton of open boxes with a ton of green ore filled to the brim about to spill out, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. What were these? Why did they feel so incredibly out of place? He would need to take a look at such further when less eyes were on him.

Multiple prisoners staring at him for minutes on end, the chimera could feel himself shrink. Multiple people inquiring about who he was, the soldier's legs twitched. Were even the inmates suspicious of him? He needed to walk around quietly and blend in with the crowd, if such were the case.

Left hip soon throbbing once more as his patrol kept pushing forward, the soldier held back the urge to scream. Attempting with all his might to numb the pain, the chimera pressed onward. He could not let such distraction take him out of this now. His true mission had only just begun. Turning himself off, the early adult sauntered onward.

Coming across an area with a wooden sign above it showing fists clashing with one another, the early adult headed off towards the room in the corner. Glass lift soon bringing him to a room down below, a large boxing ring filled with prisoners fighting each other overtook the area. Promptly turning back around, the soldier returned to the higher floor. There was nothing to see here. He needed to keep looking around the administrative area.

Soon discovering more boxes filled up with the same green crystals as he kept on trudging along, the chimera could not help but wonder. Those minerals, were they normal? Something about them had felt quite out of place. Multiple guards shooting him dirty looks, the soldier turned his attention away from the boxes, for a moment. Was he not supposed to look inside? He needed to become familiar with the rules of the underground world as soon as possible.

Continuing to loop around the area for hours on end, the early adult could see peculiar graffiti on the walls everywhere in the shape of a gear. Coming across blue devices spinning clockwise in constant motion, the chimera could not help but wonder. This prison, was it completely run on an automation system? Technology was incredible.

Spotting a rather tall person wearing a mask punching some device in the corner that made a loud dinging noise, the early adult jumped two steps back. Was this prisoner breaking property? Guards giving him a stink eye as if he had done something wrong, the chimera broke out into a sweat. He had to have looked like the worst guard in the world right now, for sure.

Loudspeaker blaring that there was about to be some sort of card game match in the pankration ring, the soldier placed his hand on his chin. If the prisoners were about to go on their moments of recreation, the time to observe the area deeper with no eyes on him should be able to go off without a hitch.

Prisoners soon gone without a trace, the early adult continued to observe the area around him. Finding himself beside a cafeteria with a circular machine offering people a welfare meal, the early adult could feel a chill drop down his spine. Robots had begun to work amongst humanity? Automation was a world all its own.

Looping around towards the left, for hours on end, the sound of robotic feet stomping upon the grounds. Turning his head towards the weight of the sound, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. Troop of mekas making themselves known, the hyena slowed down his walk into a tiptoe.

Cruising himself from behind the robotic army, the soldier could feel his heart skip four beats at the sight before him. Military robots exuding an aura of dark green energy, the soldier adjusted his glasses. Was something wrong with these machines? He had to continue to observe them further.

Metallic beings turning their heads towards the green crystals, the soldier could feel himself grow cold. The army of robots, were they going to grab the minerals from the boxes? Group of them soon taking them, the early adult had come to a quick and haphazard conclusion, in a matter of moments.

The meka army, they were definitely, at some point, going to go rogue. Robots storming out of the area and cramming themselves into a glass box, the hyena pondered for a moment. The green energy, if it were to burst, something terrible would happen to the prison, for sure. But, as his thoughts raced, the sound of a thud overtook the area.

Huxian and Pixiu dropping down head first onto the metallic floor, the early adult could feel his heart begin to race inside him. The otters, how could he have forgotten about them all this time? He was worse than their memories combined. Guards soon surrounding asking if either of them could hear them, one of them soon turned towards the chimera.

"New guard, bring these two back to the ocean so they can get their water tanks!" one of the guards shouted.

Giving the guards a nod, the otters had soon been jolted back into the world of consciousness. Group of two giving confused looks, information had come their way that the hyena would take them back to the oceans. Eyes on him for a moment, weak words hit the metallic walls.

"Right....w-aa-t-e-r...tanks....we-eee fo-rg-go-t," Pixiu choked out.

"Purple, take us back to the ocean," Huxian added, gasping for water.

Heavy bodies pressed against his, the soldier dragged the otters forward. Glass lift taking them to the receptionist area, an opening into the ocean world had soon been found. Otters swimming off rapidly, an order had come his way. Receptionist telling him to follow them, or they'll forget to come back, the chimera put on his diving equipment.

Diving suit thrusting him towards the otter duo, hours had passed by. Party of two eventually finding their water tanks, everyone returned themselves to the Fortress of Meropide. Receptionist at the front desk telling everyone to head off to the dormitory block for the night, Huxian and Pixiu led the way.

Brought into a room in a room with beds separated by a ladder, the soldier threw himself into the bottom bunk. Otter duo sharing the top one above him, the early adult turned himself towards the left side. Feeling himself about to drift off into the world of dreams, one final thought wrapped vines around the hyena.

The prison was about to be in danger.

***

"I can't shake off this feeling. That

Dude with the purple hair. He's
Obviously not a

New guard, is he?
Oh, my memory my be very spotty,
Though, I can just

Tell. He's not as
He seems. Not at all.
I just know something is
Not right. Has Huxian caught on? I do not believe so. I may be
Kneed and eroding away, but I can still

Tell when something is amiss.
He's tricking us, isn't he?
At least, that's what I am sensing.
This person spews with dishonesty, this

Person spews with,
Uh, what was that word, villainy? I don't
Remember. Ah,
Perhaps that is a word too far.
Look, I don't know why, but I find it
Especially hard to believe he is a new

Guard. That's what's eating at me.
Uh, there's certainly no way I am mistaken.
You see, this is what my gut is telling me.

I am absolutely certain. But, I will keep my
Suspicions behind lock

And key. I
Cannot tip myself off as knowing the
Truth of his possible intentions,
Unless I need to truly say something.
As it stands now, I will not say anything.
Let my bad memory act as though I know nothing.
Let myself continue to play along with this,
Yes, that's how it should be.

And, I suppose, while he's

Gone away investigating, we'll do some digging.
Unless I forgot
Almost immediately. No.
Remember, this purple haired person is not who he seems.
Don't forget that. He's bad news. Get to the digging."

Upon waking up the next morning, the soldier's hip throbbed harder than his uneven heartbeat. Lowering a portion of his pants for a moment, the early adult gazed at the joint. Entire hip far more purple than even his own hair, the chimera shook with a fervor. Covering his legs once more, the hyena turned the other cheek. He had no time to concern himself over such a thing.

Otter duo letting out deep throated yawns shortly after, the soldier removed himself from the lower bunk. Hearing the two of them ask themselves what they're doing in the fortress, minutes on end of them trying to recall bounced along the walls. But, as a strange device with pointer hands struck, the two dropped down the ladder.

"Oh, right. You have to investigate the dormitories," Huxian said. But, they hesitated for a moment. "Was that what the receptionist told us?"

"I believe so," Pixiu responded. "Didn't the receptionist tell us say to us, 'Zack, Monique, when that new guard wakes up, tell him to look through the dormitory block.' Am I remembering wrong?" After a moment of silence between the two, the ideas merged together like glue.

"Eh. Maybe that's what she told us," Huxian responded. He then turned towards the purple haired guard. "You should probably start investigating now." He then placed his hand on his chin for a moment. "By the way, my name is not Zack, and her name is not Monique." But he paused for a moment. Why is he saying that? What did it matter. "Eh. Forget that. You should get to work."

Doing as instructed, the soldier had begun walking around the dormitories, but as he had begun to do so, the temporary fortress guard could feel his left leg drag onto the ground behind him. Why was his leg feeling so much heavier than the rest of his body today? Attempting to tune out the oddities, the chimera kept waking.

Dragging himself through the hallway, the soldier could not help but notice a hard rusty scent on the air. Was it just his imagination, or did something smell rotten within the dormitory block? Surely, it had to have just been a combination of bad scents forming into one. But, as he continued to drag himself along, a question had soon come his way.

"Uh, what are you doing?" Pixiu asked, pointing at his leg. "Why are you walking like that?"

Weakness called out, the early adult pushed his left leg behind his right one. Had it been that noticeable that he had been dragging himself forward? He needed to hide such at all costs. Perhaps, just maybe, if he put weight on the opposite leg, everything would appear normal. Resolute on his decision, the chimera reversed the position of his limbs.

Continuing to walk through the dormitories, it had come to the chimera's attention immediately. Mekas walking around an empty room with a singular bed glowing a deep red aura, the hyena could feel a wave of doom flow through him. Peeking his head through the crack, the soldier observed further.

Mechanical beings punching the metallic walls, the doom nibbled on the cartilage of the hyena's ear. The meka guards, were they getting ready to harm the prisoners? Something was wrong with this situation, for sure. Otter duo gazing at the robots, as well, the two lowered their eyes into a squint.

Gazing at the robots for a moment longer, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had someone swapped out the meka's power supply with a malicious one? There was no way something had not been done behind the scenes within the Fortress. He needed to investigate further, but a wrench had soon been thrown his way.

"Nothing wrong here," Huxian said out loud. "Nothing out of the ordinary whatsoever."

The early adult almost did a quadruple take as the half of the brains within the otter duo claimed nothing had been wrong. What was Huxian thinking? But, perhaps, just maybe, he had jumped to conclusions. Surely, nothing had been wrong. He had to have been exaggerating.

Investigation within the dorms finished, a new array of orders had come his way. Guard telling him to head for the production zone, no further instructions had been given. What an incredibly vague set of instructions. What did any of that mean? But, Pixiu soon came to the rescue.

"Just pretend you want to work for credit coupons," Pixiu said.

The soldier's jaw dropped open. He had to do what now? Pretend he wanted to work for credit coupons? Wasn't he supposed to be a guard? How would that help him look like he's playing the part of one? What benefit would it have to do the work of a prisoner? But, he supposed it was best to not question it.

Otter duo taking him through the administrative area, the temporary fortress guard turned his head towards the right and left. Prisoners strolling around looking ready for some sort of competition, the early adult turned his attention back towards the pathway in front of him.

Escorted to some a glass box, the machinery took the early adult for a ride. Reaching a room with various assortments of machinery, Pixiu informed a generic man in overalls that the newest guard would like to try out the pressing machine, arms had been crossed around waists.

Person eventually agreeing, the room had soon gone silent. Generic nobody leaving the room, the soldier had soon been handed a gear device. Huxian informing him he had to place the part inside the device and pump air into it until a light was green, the chimera placed himself on a pedal.

Machine blowing off some steam, the hyena placed his hand on his chin. Was he hearing things, or was the presser making a loud whistling noise? Something was not normal about that, for sure. But, the chimera regained focus. There was no time to think about that. Bouncing on the pedal, the whistle whirred.

Steam pumping once more, the hyena took the tiny leap of faith, but the soldier swore he could whiff a puff of smoke as he continued. Shaking such feeling off, the early adult continued. His mind was playing tricks on him, for sure. There was nothing wrong with this machine, guaranteed.

Continuing to press down on the pedal, unease hugged the hyena from behind. Hearing something drop out of the center, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Had a gear slipped itself out? Perhaps, just maybe, he was jumping down too hard. He needed to press down lighter.

But, as the early adult persisted, the sound of more objects dropping overtook the small room. Pressing onward with the work, the whistles had reached their loudest point. Rocks raining out everywhere as time marched onward, the chimera halted the work, for a moment, Crouching down, the debris in front of him screamed like a banshee.

Pitch black rocks glowing against the metallic ground, the hyena could feel his blood flow in the opposite direction. These opaque minerals, he could not help but feel some sort of strong energy unlike anything else. Otter duo dragging him off to the other machines, the result had been the same for those, as well.

Collection of black crystals decorating the floor for minutes on end, the solider could feel a wave of suspicion flow through him. The energy exuding from these minerals, were they abyssal in nature? He could not help but feel that had to have been one of the possible answers. But, as he drifted off, for a moment, Huxian hooked their elbow around his arm.

"There's nothing wrong here," Huxian said. "Let's go to the upper floor now. Come on."

Dragged off towards the glass lift once more, the hyena stared downward towards the floor. Those black crystals, how did they manage to get themselves logged into the production zone's work machinery? Something had to have been amiss. There was no way there was anything normal about that whatsoever.

Turning his attention towards Huxian for a moment, the soldier gazed at the otter. Why was he continuously insisting on nothing being wrong down in the fortress? He could not help but feel this person had to have been hiding something. But, the soldier kept himself quiet. Maybe he had just not remembered, like usual.

But, as the party of three headed for the upper level production zone, a wave of doom flowed through the area. Assembly line in the corner filled to the brim with Meka, the robot's bodies glowed red as they kept being pushed through the belt of automatic movement. Stepping towards the object of many marvels, a game of hop off the production line soon took shape.

Army of robots activating one after another as they threw themselves off their assembly line, the early adult backed fifteen steps away. Robotic creatures revving up punches and sharpening swords, the hyena's knees buckled. The mechanical monsters were coming his way, any second now.

Meka blasting energy his way, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. But, when he opened them once more, his human hands remained. Seeing such, the soldier could feel a wave of uselessness flow through him. Why did his body choose to not let him transform how, of all times? Slipping on the gloves from his satchel instead, the hyena rolled his shoulder.

But, such punches had been nothing more than a failure. Mechanical monsters not having even a dent in them, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Just how sturdy were these enemies? Surely, they had to have some sort of weakness programmed into them somewhere. Attempting to add the power of his Dendro vision within the gloves, the hyena kept the punches going.

Such, however, was the second whammy upon the game board. Mekas shielding themselves from harm almost immediately, the soldier backed himself away. Enemies glowing a deep shade of green as their defenses kicked into the highest possible outcome, the hyena could feel his will leave him. Just what were these machines made out of, tungsten?

Blast of green blobs tossed the hyena's way, the chimera could feel energy leave his body in a matter of moments. Swings missing my a kilometer, the soldier swore that at any given moment he would become a punching bag. Fists swerving off course for minutes on end, the mechanical enemy's attack kept their momentum going.

A prayer would soon tip the scales.

Peculiar looking cross with a bladed edge tossed the temporary fortress guard's way, the soldier turned his head towards the otter duo. Party of two discussing with themselves loudly to just lend him their secret sword, the chimera broke out into a sweat. They had what now? A secret cross that was a sword? They should not have lent such a thing to him. He needed to give such back. But, such request of return was rejected.

"Just borrow it for a moment. Why are you rejecting it? Do you not believe in the archons, or something?" Huxian asked, inquisitive.

Hearing such question, the hyena broke out into a sweat. Not believe in the Archons? What a ridiculous question to be asked. Surely, it was wrong to borrow someone's cross. Wasn't that some sort of sin? Attempting to give it back once more, the otter pushed it back towards him.

"Just borrow it for a moment. Why are you rejecting it?" Huxian repeated. "Just pray to whatever archon for a second and fight." He let out a sigh for a moment. "Focalors, lend me your blessings."

Watching as Huxian's cross embedded itself into a holy light, the early adult could feel himself grow small. Was he really allowed to use such a tool? Surely, he wasn't allowed to take someone else's religious symbol. But, he knew if he tried to return it a third time, the same question would be repeated.

Pixiu sending her prayers to Rex Lapis, the hyena closed his eyes as he placed the bladed cross beside his lips. Sending his prayers to the Dendro archon, a white light with a sparkle of darkness surrounded the temporary weapon. Slashing the light forward, multiple enemies had been taken out of the picture.

Holy light from the archons taking every robot out one after another, the early adult broke out into a shiver. Had someone from a spirit realm shouted while holding his arms out to give everyone their energy? He knew such had not been the case, but he felt like such had to have been, at the moment. The battles, however, were far from over.

Guard running over to the scene panting, a new wave of information had come everyone's way. Man stating with heavy breaths that rogue mekas had made themselves comfortable within the abandoned production zone mines, Huxian and Pixiu had been off to the races. Dragged along with them, a less than pleasant looking area had soon been reached.

Dragged off into a room with abandoned equipment with multiple sealed off doors, the otter duo attempted a series of puzzles one after another. Room off in the corner soon opened up, a new long, rusty smelling corridor had soon been walked through. Pressing onward, a new area unlike anything within the prison prior screamed out to the soldier.

Large, abandoned mining zone filled with a sea of green crystals everywhere, a chill had shot down the hyena's spine. This place lied within the deepest points of the Fortress of Meropide? How strange. He could not help but feel the area before him was forbidden to step foot into.

Robots galore glowing with the same green energy, the soldier prepared to get on the offensive. Mechanical beings attacking something throughout the mining, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Had there been someone else down here? Question soon answered, a familiar face stuck out amongst the crowd.

Diver boy swinging a claymore alongside some penguin toy friend, the soldier rubbed his eyes for a moment. Was he seeing things, or was the blond somewhere outside of the underwater world? Still seeing him even after opening his eyes, a wave of peculiarity flowed through him. Was he sent on this mission, as well? He could not help but feel something had been off about that. Eyes soon on him, a question rolled the dice.

"Are you here to commence clean up?" the diver boy asked.

Giving the young man a nod, the diver soon returned to his portion of the work. Blade swiping with a fury, the early adult took a deep breath. There was no way he could leave it at all to on singular person. Gloves soon over his knuckles, the hyena rolled up the first of many punches.

Such had soon become the triple whammy upon the game board. Mechanical enemy grabbing a hold of his palms in seconds, the soldier could feel his body twist and turn for minutes on end. Blood rushing to his head as the meka flipping him into an upside down position, the ground was the ceiling, the ceiling was the ground.

Otter duo asking him why he was using those boxing gloves again, the early adult closed his eyes. Right, use the secret sword the two of them thrusted upon him. He had to make use of such gift, for the time being. Throwing the gloves off, the soldier sent his prayers to the Dendro Archon he was not supposed to worship once more.

Holy light bathing the mekas for minutes on end, the tables reversed back towards the enemies within the snap of a singular finger. Peculiar mineral stocks floating on the air the hyena almost fell backwards. The rocks, were they combining themselves with the machinery? There was no way he would stand any chance now.

Diver stating such behavior was rather abnormal for Clockwork Meka, the early adult's knees had become as hard as stone. The green mineral stock, was something wrong with them? Everyone needed to defeat the enemies as soon as possible before they were to cause more damage.

But, such soon proved to be an impossibility. Creatures soon regenerating after multiple attempts at defeat, the early adult could feel the white flag within him ready to wave. Were these enemies invincible? There was no way to reach victory now, for sure. Everyone's fate was sealed.

Regenerations not ceasing, even for a moment, Huxian and Pixiu sent a sea of questions on repeat for minutes on end. Hearing the otters confusion, the early adult flinched. What was the point of pressing onward with this battle? There was no way to win. But, an option soon presented itself to the playing field.

Diver soon aiming for the green crystal deposits within the meka's spinning parts, a realization had washed over soldier. The power source, right, aiming for the core. That had to have been the answer. Setting his sights on such, the hyena steeled himself for possible failure.

First machine removed from the equation as their gears rusted into nothing, the hyena blinked. Was it really that simple? The diver's expertise in machinery was nothing to sneeze at. Otter duo following suit, hours of cleanup soon commenced within the mining area. Every single mechanical enemy turning to dust, the next order of business was upon the chimera.

Taken back to the administrative area, the chimera had been told to patrol the area once more. As such had gone on, however, a face he should not have seen had begun to crop up around the underground prison. Inmates chanting the grand duke had returned from, the world froze.

Duke's boots stomping up a storm, a chill had begun to run down the hyena's spine. It was over, he was going to get caught. Wasn't this person the one who was in charge of the entire fortress? It was game over. Man walking towards him, the hyena closed his eyes for a moment. It was all over for him.

Tall man with spiky, greying wolfish hair and a black and red overcoat pulled over his buttoned down grey outfit, the soldier could feel the man's eyes size him up like he was some pin-up model. Arms soon crossed around his waist, the soldier could feel his vitality meter drop to zero.

It was over.

"New guard, huh? I know what you're up to, Fatuus," the grand duke said, arms crossed. "You thought you had me fooled, didn't you?"

Hearing the duke slap on some gauntlets, the early adult could feel his soul about to remove itself from his body. How did this man know his true identity? He needed to explain himself. Yes, explain himself. Tell him the situation before it was too late. Taking a deep, frantic breath, the soldier placed his hands into a pleading position.

"Sir, please, have mercy!" Siorc begged. "There's something terribly wrong going on down here! Please, spare me, I beg you!" But, such begs for mercy fell on deaf ears.

"Nice try, Fatuus," the duke fired back. He then turned his attention towards the Liffey guards. "Zack, Monique, I thought I told you two to heavily guard the entrance in the front." A weak defense soon called itself to the stand.

"Those red plants cropped up again, so we had to leave," Huxian retorted. "By the way my name isn't Zack, it's Huxian." But, the last part had been cut off, in an instant.

"We couldn't just leave those unattended," Pixu added.

"Full of excuses," the duke said. As he said such, a paperweight had been lifted upon the ground.

Duke's gauntlets lifting him up from the collar as if he were a weightless bag of air, the early adult could feel himself enclosed into a tight grip. Swirled around into a circle as his body hit the metallic ground, the soldier could feel his wind leave him as an array of fists concentrated themselves into his torso. Hips thrown into the mix as well, the world of unconsciousness invited the hyena back in. Ready to fade away as knuckles pressed down on his joints one final time, one final thought broke through.

This was all for nothing, wasn't it?

***

"I am a failure. I

Am a failure. Her
Majesty, she's going to be disappointed in me.

And she's going to kill me.

Please, Your Majesty, have mercy. I did not
Anticipate I would get caught this easily.
Please, I am begging you, have mercy.
Even I had no idea the Duke was lurking.
Really, I did not know. Her Majesty,
Will she kill me?
Everything is set in stone.
I am a failure.
Guess I should have been more careful.
How could I not anticipate
This outcome?

I am a failure. I

Am a failure. Her
Majesty, she's going to kill me.

Well, she's always listening. I am sure she is
Eager to end me.
As I have failed her.
Knowing her, she's already well

Aware of what happened here.

For now, I should say goodbye,
Ah, goodbye world,
I am going to be removed.
Looks like that magician was wrong. I'm Her Majesty's favorite?
Utter nonsense, that was never the truth.
Right, that's far from the truth.
Everything about that is

Falsified. A lie.
Right, I'm just a failure.
A disappointment. The
Gears are all turning, one after another.
I am a failure, I am a failure, a
Loser on the battlefield.
Everything will end with my downfall, it's over."

Coming to in the prison infirmary, the soldier could feel himself in a deep haze. Where was he, how did he end up in here? Creampuff hair Melusine walking towards him with a small smile on her face, the hyena blinked. What was she doing down here in a place like this?

"It's good to see you awake," the creampuff haired melusine said. "A doctor found a couple of bullets lodged inside your hip after you were knocked out! But, we had them removed."

The early adult blinked of bewilderment. One of doctors found bullets lodged inside his hip? How did those get inside of him? Her Majesty's punishment, he swore all that it had done was brush up against the joint. Hearing the Melusine say that ----------- just enjoys a good fight, the chimera did a triple take. Was that supposed to be one of his daily sparring matches, or something? Unbelievable. Raising himself from the bed, a sea of discouragements had come his way.

Melusine nurse trying to discourage him from getting up so quickly, the soldier went against medical advice. Did she really think it was necessary to keep him here cooped up in a prison bed? No way. The bullets were already removed. He could not just sit around while a crisis was an otter's foot. He had to leave now.

Stepping back into the area, a sea of panic screams threatened to flood the entire prison in a matter of moments. Prisoners running for their lives one after another, an army of mekas stomped through the fortress, ready to aim and fire. Multiple people punched out and forming piles on the ground, the hyena dashed off onto the scene.

Otter duo and the duke attacking multiple rogue mekas with all their might, the hyena readied for his fists to join in on the talking. But, the same secret sword had been thrown the soldier's way from the day prior. Huxian again telling him to just use it, the soldier sighed. He supposed he would need to use the peace offering. Duke staring at him, a surprising set of words had come his way.

"Seems you were right about the mekas after all," the duke said as he punched a machine. "Apologies for knocking you out." But, Pixiu soon cut in.

"I don't know why you had to be so rough with him, Grand Duke, sir," Pixiu interrupted. "You turned his hip all black." But, another voice interrupted.

"No, he didn't, Monique," Huxian said, deadpan. He then hesitated for a moment. "But, your name isn't Monique, it's Pixiu." He turned his head off towards the opposite direction. "Why did I call you Monique just now?" He then regained focus. Clearing their throat, he tried again. "No, he didn't Pixiu. It was already deeply bruised when he pulled his punches. Well, whatever, we need to fight these things."

Everyone soon spreading out throughout the area, the fortress defense team was on the case. Mekas spreading themselves out amongst the prison, the early adult dashed off towards the ones thinking they could get away. But, as he had begun running, the soldier swore he had felt much lighter than before. Had something been fixed? Doctors were magical.

Mekas around the administration area taken out of the picture after five attempts at regeneration, the soldier tilted his head towards the ceiling. Whoever programmed these enemies, they had to have beefed up the monsters to their maximum abilities possible. Robots lurking throughout the rest of the area, the fight had been on.

Robots dissolved into nothing after prayers had been embedded within his temporary secret sword, the early adult stared down at the cross weapon. Just what was powering this thing? But, he supposed it did not matter what kind of sorcery had been contained inside it. Soon spotting some mekas running off towards the pankration ring, the soldier made haste.

Meka soldiers singing themselves up for some martial arts competition, the early adult added himself upon the roster list. But, the hyena swore he could hear the robots screaming all hail the abyss. Owner of the pankration ring granting his entry into the competition, the early adult prepared all his prayers from the steel bastion he currently resided in.

Small robot looking ready to swing and hit his glasses, the early adult placed the cross in front of him. With the power of the gods and animal prowess at his side, the holy light bathed the creature into a deep fried pot of stew. Referee looking ready to ask if foul play were in place, otter whispers wisped in his ears.

Second robot throwing itself into the ring, light bathed the secret sword once more. Meka removed from the equation after four regenerations, the soldier fell ono his knees. Whatever was powering these enemies, it was certainly out of this world, without a shadow of a doubt.

Third meka taken out of the picture after a fifteen minute fight, the soldier broke out into a sweat. Was it just him, or had these robots been getting sturdier as the battles went on? But, he supposed the metals they had been made were different than the others. As the fight wrapped up, however, the definite culprits showed themselves.

Abyssal gazelles appearing out of nowhere, the hyena shook his head. Kelebek and Izzet? He should have known it was these two who were up to no good. Why had they always been the ones causing problems around Fontaine? Surely, they had to have grown tired of all this by now.

"Little rebel, are you having fun with our toys?" Kelebek asked, laughing.

Hearing such an inquiry, the early adult rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Was he having fun with their toys? What a ludicrous question. Absolutely not, why would he get a thrill out of destroying machines that were bringing harm to prisoners? Just because they were criminals according to the world did not mean they deserved to be put in harm's way. But, his thoughts were soon rushed down the river.

"Tick tock, tick tock, the Duke's time is almost up!" Izzet shouted. "Nyahahahaha, better hurry!"

Abyss gazelles attempting to bring the duke into their shenanigans, the soldier's currently human legs erupted into a speedy sprint. What were they about to do to him? Whatever it was, he could not allow it. Large office doors within the administrative area wide open, the chimera invited himself in.

Watching as the duke punched a meka into oblivion as it attempted to go downward into some sort of secret room, eyes were soon on him. Look of seriousness on the duke's face, the soldier could feel a sweat drop pour down his face. The no longer hooded strangers, they had definitely targeted the wrong person, for sure.

"Go to the production zone," the duke said. "Help Zack and Monique instead."

Zooming out of the duke's office, the soldier dashed off to the production zone. Otter duo telling him to head for the upper floor as they take care of the lower one, another glass lift had soon been taken in a matter of moments. Higher level in the prison flooded with mechanical enemies, the soldier braced himself.

Mechanical enemies looking particularly weak to the elements, the chimera threw down a flower acquaintance. Windwheel Aster brought to life by his Dendro Vision, the soldier provided silent commands to his plant familiar. Enemy taking a small dent, the chimera kept the commands going.

Vines slapping the creatures a new one for minutes on end, the soldier dashed off the western exit as fast as his human legs could carry him. Finding himself amongst of quintet of robots, the hyena kept the momentum going for minutes on end. But, the regeneration button had soon been pressed once more.

Knowing he had no choice but to rely on the cross again, the hyena sighed. Divine powers of the holy sword cross flowing through him once more, the light devoured the abyssal monstrosities into a sea of white in a matter of moments. Hearing the enemies claiming the abyss shall prevail, the chimera shook his head.

But, as the soldier pressed onward, the no longer hooded strangers soon poofed behind the hyena. Feeling a dark presence ready to swallow him, the chimera rolled his eyes. What other words of corny evil did these two have to say now? They should just bury themselves in a maze and stop causing problems.

"While he was distracted, our toys went into that secret room!" Kelebek revealed in a screeching tone.

"Nyahaha, better run before it's too late for the duke!" Izzet exclaimed.

Dashing back to the duke's office, a room that had hidden itself off soon revealed itself. Mekas jumping upon some strange door with a twitching needle, the early adult could feel a heavy wave of unease flow through him. He did not know why, but something about the passage beneath felt important to Fontaine.

Duke stating that if the valve is broken, primordial seawater would break loose, a deep sense of urgency flowed through the hyena. There was no way he could allow for such waters to leak out. The abyssal powered mekas, he had to removed them from the equation as soon as possible.

Otters soon joining he mix, the fight was soon on. Mekas looking read to punch multiple holes into the valve beneath them, the power of the holy light had begun to bathe the enemies deep. Creatures regenerating as quickly as they had been defeated, the second round soon unleashed itself upon the villains.

But, as the multitude of enemies had been evaporated one after another, more had invited themselves to the party. Power of the cross and duke's icy punches pressing onward, the soldier let out a battle cry. The mekas, he could not let them continue onward. No chance whatsoever.

Final set of machines turned into unusable scrap metal, the familiar sound of the abyssal gazelle duo dropping by through their means of definite illegal teleportation, the chimera grit his teeth. Just how much more chaos did they want to unleash? Hadn't they already had enough fun? They needed to throw in the towel on their horrid robot chaos.

"Better hurry! Our favorites are in the mines!" Izzet exclaimed.

Knowing that was his cue to leave, the hyena and the otters were off to the races. Duke staying behind, the soldier shrugged. He supposed the top dog at the prison had a code to fulfill. Passing through the multiple production zones, only the abandoned one awaited.

Group of mekas empowered with a sea of green crystals, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Mechanical monsters opening up a huge portal of darkness, the early adult had come to an immediate conclusion. The gazelles, they had set up a trap. If he did not hurry, the Fortress would be sucked into the portal guaranteed.

Closing his eyes, for a moment, the chimera's currently human hand had soon transformed into hyena paws. Slashing forward for minutes on end, the hyena swore defeat was about to come as easy as opening up a present on his birthday. But, complacency would soon be his downfall.

Meka fusing itself with a nearby ally as he slashed their power supply, the chimera could hardly believe his eyes. What in the world did he just witness, a fusion dance? It was almost as if, in another world that was not Teyvat, an alien race was capable of doing such a thing. But, there was no way such could have been possible here. His eyes had to have been playing tricks on him.

Second meka soon fusing itself with the third after its defeat, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. What in the world was going on here? What kind of failsafe had been programmed into these things? Otter duo fighting other mekas off in the corner, the soldier pressed onward. He supposed this was his fight alone.

Third robot soon fusing with the fourth as it ate green energy, the hyena could feel everything break inside him. What were these robots made out of, powerful magnets? Absolutely ridiculous. Whatever was making them fuse together upon defeat had to be powered down immediately.

But such wishes fell flat on the ground as the fourth robot soon fused itself with the final one. Monster spinning its arms around for minutes on end, the early adult could feel himself get tossed around like an old toy ready to be thrown out into the trash can. But, as the minutes raged onward, a party soon came back from the ashes.

Diver boy and otter duo's crosses and claymore ready, the final round of the fight had been upon everyone. Penguin toy freezing the enemy solid after fifteen strikes, Huxian and Pixiu's crosses had begun to glow the purest white he had ever seen. Soldier adding his borrowed secret sword into the mix, the final judgement call had been brought forth upon the machine. Robot soon dissolving into nothing, accusatory hands had been thrown the soldier's way.

"Hyena boy, we will be back, don't you forget it!" Izzet shouted, pointed.

"He made the wrong enemy out of oneself!" Kelebek also shouted.

Abyssal duo soon vanishing, the hyena crossed his arms across his waist. Just how many could they exact revenge on him? This was getting old at this point. Stepping out of the mining zone, an array of apologies had come from the duke in a matter of moments.

"Suppose I owe you one since you were right about those mekas," the duke said. "Fatui or not, I owe you my gratitude."

Otter duo apologizing to him for being useless, the chimera shook his head. Why were they saying that now? They had certainly proved their usefulness. Returning their secret sword to them, the early adult returned to the reception desk. Informed the lift would take him to the outside of the opera house, the soldier ascended upward. But, as he returned to the surface world, a faceless mask awaited him. Agent walking towards him, words bathed him deep.

"Excellent work, soldier," the Agent said, pride evident in his voice. "You are hereby dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya immediately."

Told to return to the permafrost north, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy orb from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint soon highlighted, the hyena closed his eyes. Stepping through the icy cold hallways, the steel walled room awaited him after fifteen minutes of walking.

But, as the hyena stepped foot into the soundproof room, the soldier walked around in a circle. The abyss gazelles, just what was their true goal? Whatever it was, something deep and sinister awaited all of Teyvat if they were to succeed. Such could not happen, no matter what.

Wave of tiredness soon overtaking the chimera, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the early adult slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses soon put aside, the hyena closed his eyes. But as the world of sleep was ready to take him away, one final thought looped on repeat.

The energy crisis could get worse at any moment.

Chapter 12: Meka Parts in Fontaine: Something's Robotically Fishy.

Chapter Text

"What is going on? Why did
Her Majesty send the cat and rat chimera to my doorstep?
You know what this means?

Absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt, she is planning something.
Ryś, and Krysí,
Every time I see them,

There's this uneasy feeling that
Her Majesty is up to something.
Even though this is only my third encounter with them, it

Cannot be a good thing.
Ah, what does she want this time?
The cores from Meka?

Ah, no this is
Not good. One wrong step and I am
Done for. Just like last time.

Really, Your Majesty, what are you thinking?
All of this might land me in
The Fortress of Meropide.

After all, I already have had
Two cases, a third could be around the corner.

Maybe I am overthinking.
Yes, I am overthinking.

Doubt these are from the meka gardes,
Obviously, it's from rogue
Ones again. Surely, that's the case.
Right, that has to be it.

After all, there's quite a lot of these cases lately.
Guess this is just yet
Another one to add to that pile.
I see now, I suppose I am overreacting.
Now, I have a vision

This time, are Krysí and Ryś even necessary?
Oh, well, I am not used to this
Dendro Orb, so their company
As a team is welcome, truly.
Yes, I should embrace this, I

Should be thankful.
Over time, I will have
Mastered the
Element I have been bestowed by
The gods.
How long it will take?
I do not know,
Nor am I going to venture a
Guess. Someday,

I will be more adept to the
Source of power provided to me.

For now, this is my team.
I'm not sure if these two won't be regarded as
Suspicious, but I guess we will see.
However I look at this, it will not end well.
Yet, I know I am jumping

And leaping to conclusions.
Be hopeful. Maybe there will be no suspicions thrown
Over to them.
Up to this point I need
To push these thoughts away,

Take my mind to focus on work.
Here's to a smooth work,
I must remain diligent and
Silent, that is key."

Four days have passed since the hyena investigated and dealt with the rogue robots down in the Fortress of Meropide. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Business affairs in Liyue going on like they always did during the ninety-six hours, mundaneness kicked itself into overdrive.

Upon waking up for the morning, the soldier rubbed his eyes a smidgeon as a gust of icy wind hit the barricaded window. Letting out a deep yawn, the early adult let out a deep sigh. Any day now, and the next month long blizzard would come back from the weather dead. Placing his glasses over his heterochromatic eyes, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier placed his uniform over his partially human person, the chimera could not help but ponder. The abyss gazelles, were they planning on making a move on the rest of Teyvat? But, the hyena threw such thought out into the snow outside. He should not concern himself over such a thing. Surely, if such event was happening, it would be put a stop to by various forces. But, such thoughts soon bubbled into overdrive.

Walking towards the barricaded window, the soldier gazed at the world of snow outside. Snezhnaya, was it about to be claimed by the abyss, too? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. There was no way such a thing could ever happen. Her Majesty would order the end of anyone who would ever come in her way, guaranteed.

Slapping his cheeks, the chimera walked back towards his uniform drawers. Removing the cover off his hairpin and earring box, the hyena clicked the weaponized jewelry and accessory into place. Adorning matching Windwheel Asters in his hair and ears, a wave of confidence flowed through the chimera. Whatever were to come at him today, he was ready for anything.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the hyena stared at the green orb below him. His Vision, should he use it more? But, the soldier shook his head. The power of the elements had to have limited usage. He should not use it all up too early after receiving one, for sure.

Thoughts flooding his brain, for a moment, the hyena walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. Visions, could they break? If such were to happen, would his elemental prowess vanish? Gazing at the orb once more, the hyena kept on studying, for a moment. The God's gift, he must not take it for granted.

But, the soldier popped a pin into such thought. There was no way he would be able to find out if such were the case. He needed to stop getting distracted by his thoughts and continue to get ready before the Agent were to arrive. Throwing every single thought away that did not relate to work, the soldier ended his pace about.

Heelless shoes on and rations devoured, the early adult took a long deep breath. He is overthinking this, for sure. Visions were nothing more than elemental powers brought on by a person's dreams or ambitions. Surely, as long as someone's ambitions were alive, the energy would still exist. Throwing the final nail into the coffin onto such topic, the hyena snapped the final button upon his uniform shut. Everything in order, the young soldier had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the sound of rather peculiar footsteps and a cat bell clinking, the hyena tilted his head towards the ceiling. Who was coming towards his door? Was the Agent not coming today? Bell only getting louder as the seconds ticked away, confusion looped on repeat. Strange noises soon halting, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight presented to him.

Bobcat and rat chimera standing by the door, confusion had only continued the devour the hyena further. Her Majesty, why had she sent these two here? He had his vision now, there was no need for them to lend their assistance. But, the soldier kept himself quiet. He knew he could not say such a thing. Eyes soon on him, the ice broke.

"Hi again, Siorcy!" Ryś greeted, practically purring. "The Agent is away on business, meow!"

Hearing the Agent had been away on business, the soldier could not help but wonder. What could he have possibly been up to? But, he supposed whatever his subordinate might be doing while he was not around was absolutely no business of his. Turning his head towards the duo, his attention was laser focused.

"So, Her Majesty sent us in his place," Krysí added, voice shaking. "Here's your bag of diving equipment. We'll give you a few minutes to look through it."

Girls stepping outside, for a moment, the soldier flipped the satchel's opening flap back. Diving equipment sitting down folded up neatly like it usually had been, the hyena readied to close the bag up once more. But, as he prepared to do so, something of particular note stuck out like a Slime in a tribe of Hilichurls.

Spotting an odd pistol in the shape of an octopus, the hyena tilted his head once more. What was something like this doing in his bag? Had a younger soldier slipped a toy in here? But, he supposed it had to have some sort of purpose for a later point. Putting the object away, he turned towards the duo.

"I am ready?" the chimera said as a question, words barely audible.

Hearing the layer of confusion in Siorc's voice, Krysí's tail coiled up from behind her. Had he found the pistol while looking through the bag she gave him? Why did he look so puzzled by it? Maybe it was best to explain what it was for before they were to move forward.

"That pistol is just for puzzles we might come across," Krysí explained, she then turned toward Ryś'. "Ryś', tell Siorc about our mission."

"Of course, I remembered it!" Ryś responded, tail stretched out. "Her Majesty wants us to get Meka gears in Fontaine!"

The soldier could feel his heart skip a beat as Ryś revealed the mission He had to collect Meka gears in Fontaine? If he were to slip up ant any given moment, he would be arrested for sure this time. But, he knew he had no choice, in the matter. His orders were absolute. Giving the pair a nod, the early adult waited for a moment.

"I'm sorry to ask, but could you take out your map for us?" Krysí asked. "Her Majesty didn't give us one."

Doing as instructed, the early adult opened up the orb into map form. Krysí informing him they needed to head over to some desert, the soldier held back the urge to sigh. Why was it always the desert edges he had to go to for Fontaine related missions? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. He should have been used to such by now. Pressing the teleport waypoint west to Romaritime Harbor, the hyena closed his eyes as the rat and bobcat chimera were within close proximity of him. Fast travel about to come to a close, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

What does Her Majesty need meka parts for?

***

"Seems like the Iudex wants us to hand another bounty personally today.
Ordinary, we would immediately jump at such opportunity, but
My boyfriend, for the first time
Ever, I don't know what he's
Thinking. The Iudex mentioned there is these fish everywhere, Robin looks perturbed.
Hon, what are you thinking?
I do not believe I have ever seen him with such a face before.
Now, this is quite strange, I do not blame him.
Getting a report about machines going rogue

Is rather unusual.
So many peculiar occurrences are happening lately.

Mayhaps it should not surprise me my lover is confused in all this.
Even so, I ask about this request
Carefully. 'Monsieur --------, I beg your pardon, but did I
Hear you correctly?'
As it would seem, I did
Not mishear him. 'You did
Indeed, Monsieur Raven, mechanical fish have escaped onto the surface.'
Could this be some sort of fish outbreak?
All of these bounties we have been getting
Lately all seem to involve quite unusual beings.
Looks like there might be a villain afoot. Robin, hon, is that what
You're thinking?

For now, we take the bounty.
It seems there has been various reports of them in Mount Esus East,
Some in the west.
Here's to another clean day of bounty hunting.
Yet I am starting to think there is going to be

Harder days ahead.
Even so, Robin enjoys the challenge, and I suppose I
Really do not mind it
Either. It is time to go fish slaying."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the early adult stared off towards the harbor off in the distance. Why couldn't he just teleport to the city directly? But, the soldier kept such questions to himself. Maybe there were laws in place that did not allow for the usage of fast travel.

Krysí and Ryś soon climbing down the sandy mountain, the soldier followed behind them. Party of two in front of him stepping towards the water, the bobcat chimera gazed at the pool of liquid for minutes on end. Seeing such, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was she afraid of water? He had heard some cats had a phobia over getting wet. But such thoughts were proven false in a matter of moments.

"How are we supposed to cross the water, meow?" Ryś asked, fidgeting about. "I don't have enough stamina to swim that far!"

"We have to summon a boat with the press of a button," Krysí said to Ryś. She then clicked an invisible button.

Boat appearing after the press of an invisible button, wanderlust ate the chimera up like a plate of cake. It was as easy as pushing a button? How impressive. Technology was incredible. Why hadn't all of Teyvat been like this? But, he supposed different societies moved at different paces.

"Wow, it appeared out of nowhere, meow!" Ryś exclaimed, hopping onto the vessel's front side. She then turned towards Siorc. "Hop on, Siorcy!"

Krysí soon shrinking down into rat form and crawling onto Ryś' shoulder, the chimera seated himself on the opposite end of the vehicle. Everyone completely seated, the boat cruised forward in a slow and steady manner. Harbor off in the distance, a sea of thoughts devoured the soldier.

Order flowing back into his mind, the soldier could not help but wonder further. Why did Her Majesty want meka gears? Surely, she had plenty of materials to make her various technological devices. But, the hyena knew he could not question her motives, or his life would be over, in an instant.

Reaching Romaritime Harbor after twenty minutes, a familiar reminder of utter aggravation had been tossed the hyena's way. Krysí informing him that he is not allowed to use his proxy map to teleport within anywhere around Fontaine, the soldier held back the urge to growl. Why did he have to hear this speech again? He was getting quite tired of hearing it from every single person every single time he was in the harbor. Keeping himself silent, the soldier simply nodded.

Ascending the staircase and taking the glass lift as usual, only a single soul stirred within the area near the Aquabus station. Young, well dressed woman standing by the side of the line, her head soon turned towards the rat, bobcat and he as they stepped towards the sign in the corner. But, such look quickly turned into a scene as fingers pointed towards Ryś' shoulder.

"Eek, a rat!" the rich lady screamed. "Why aren't you killing it?!"

Siorc could hardly believe his ears. Who did this woman think she was, saying something like that? Did she not see the doll clothing and humanoid eyes? How dare she suggest to end her life. Even if she were a regular rat and not a chimera, rodents were creatures that deserved to live just as much as everyone else. They were not malicious monsters like the elemental beings in the open wilderness.

Hearing this rude lady say the usual reactionary line, Ryś held back the urge to crack her knuckles. Yet another sorry person who thought every creature that wasn't a human was lesser than they were. These kinds of people were easy to handle. Giving her fighting partner, she soon nodded.

Getting the usual lines of fear about her, Krysí's tail coiled up from behind her. When will humans learn that rats and mice weren't scary? Ryś giving her a signal, she gave a nod back. It was time to go by the usual script to the aggressor before she were change the subject towards herself.

"Don't be rude to my little robot friend!" Ryś exclaimed, claws pointing at Krysí. "She can hear everything you just said!"

"Beep boop," Krysí said in a fake sounding robot voice. "Aggressors will face the wrath of the rat!"

Generic woman running away screaming she was out of here, the harbor soon grew quiet. Lady soon gone without a trace, the early adult's jaw practically dropped open. Did they just come up with such skit right on the spot? How impressive and resourceful of them, if so.

Krysí soon returning to human form and pressing the button in the corner, the Aquabus arrived quicker than the soldier had been able to process it. Vessel of automatic power already docked, the soldier seated himself towards the back of the vehicle. Krysí and Ryś parking themselves further in the front, the ride soon began.

Melusine doing her usual tour to her new guests, an apology had soon come the sea denizen's way. Ryś informing her she and her friend need to go over some business, the tour guide asked if she didn't want a tour. Loud no said back, sweat poured down the soldier's back. Did she have to be so loud about it? Volume control was an important skill to learn in society.

Krysí soon opening up a large book entitled Adventurer's Handbook that definitely weighed more than her when in rat form, the soldier kept one ear open. Where would his Meka hunting adventures be taking him this time? He supposed anywhere was possible, even inside the Iudex's office.

Hearing the rat chimera call out the location Belleau region, Fontaine, the soldier blinked. Their first order of business was to head to the south eastern area? They needed turn back around right now and leave the Aquabus. Giving the girls eye contact as he realized such, the early adult jerked his index finger into a leftward motion.

"You want us to turn around?" Ryś asked, puzzled. She then paused for a moment, hesitating. "Oh, that's right, I forgot to tell you, meow! We have to go to a hotel and get some weapons from our subordinate first!"

"So, we can't ask the Aquabus to turn around," Krysí added. "Sorry, Siorc. Is there something you forgot at the harbor?"

Hearing Krysí's question, the soldier shook his head. He supposed it was best for everyone to be armed in some way before continuing onward to fight any sort of monsters. Aquabus getting closer towards the capital city, the hyena remained seated, for a moment. Right, weapons. How could he forget about such an important component to battling?

Vessel soon reaching the station, the soldier stepped forward. Surely, going to Hotel Deboard would be a quick and easy trip, and he wouldn't run into the penguin chimera whatsoever. Knowing the fancy establishment was in the western side of the city, the hyena led the way.

As the soldier cruised through the city streets, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what kind of mekas awaited him today? If it were merely just corrupted gardes, he knew he would need to proceed with utmost caution. But, as he kept on walking, more questions kept flowing in like water.

The mekas, could they have been rogue ones that had secretly escaped the Fortress of Meropide after defeat? Recalling many down in the bastion underneath the sea had strange regenerative powers, perhaps, just maybe, some had excused themselves from the establishment.

But, the early adult threw such thought away. There was no way something like that could have been possible. The mekas, he had defeated every single one of them. There was absolutely no way a single one of them had survived. Not a chance. Keeping his face forward, the hyena kept walking.

Seeing the Steambird off in the corner, the hyena could not help but wonder. Had the rogue robots been recorded in the newspapers? But, the hyena rolled up the invisible paper into a roll and wacked the buzzing fly. The news, why did it matter what they thought about the situation? They would sensationalize the incidents.

Hotel merely twenty steps away, the early adult took a deep breath. He needed to stop getting distracted by his thoughts. He was on the nonexistent clock now. He needed to focus all his attention on the mission at hand. Pushing the entrance open, the chimera and duo behind him stepped inside.

But, as the chimera entered the hotel, the thorn in his side would soon poke his unwanted head in. Spotting Earl walking away from the restaurant in the corner, the soldier resisted the urge to let out a groan. Why was the penguin chimera always everywhere he was whenever he was working? The archons were playing a cruel trick on him, for sure. Eyes soon wandering towards the pair beside him and then back towards him, the hyena prepared himself for the grating voice to break the glass windows.

Seeing his future husband in the hotel lobby, Earl's eyes sparkled. Was Siorc coming here to book a reservation for a hotel room? He should come to his home and sleep there instead. But, his face soon fell at the sight in the corner. Seeing two women next to him, a boulder crushed him. Did he score himself two wives? A lover's affair, how juicy and a scandalous gut punch.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. He then pointed at his lovers. "You're into polygamy? I wasn't expecting that, but I accept you no matter what!"

Krysí's tail twisted into knots. Who was this guy to assume what kind of relationship anyone was in? What an annoying person, sticking his nose in where it didn't belong. Nosy people were nasty people. If this man were in Snezhnaya, his tongue should freeze immediately.

"Excuse me?" Krysí asked, shaking. "We are nothing of the sort."

Ryś' ears twitched for a moment. This guy was a funny one. He thought she, Krysí, and Siorcy were a couple? How silly of him. She was single, at least for now. But, she knew push came to shove. She had a meeting to get to. This person was in the way. It was best to tell him to move over gently.

"Nope! Just coworkers!" Ryś exclaimed. "Could you scoot over, please? We have someone important to meet, meow!"

Hearing the strangers deny they were in any sort of couple status, a wave of relief washed over Earl. Siorc wasn't taken? How wonderful, becoming his wife someday was not off the table. If he was already on the job, and he was in the way, he would excuse himself.

"Sorry, Madame Gato!" Earl shouted, backing away. "I'll get out of your way!"

As Earl walked off, the soldier swore he could hear something taped onto his back. Ryś giggling up a storm, the early adult turned his head towards the hotel's exit. White sheet of paper with the words kick me printed on them, the early adult folded his arms across his waist. But, he soon returned his attention elsewhere. Whatever happened outside the hotel doors was not his problem.

Tall, ginger Fatui wearing a top hat, teal mask and a suit, a set of weapons sat in their hands. Gazing at them, for a moment, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Was it just him, or was there something different about the spears and claymores they were delivering?

Krysí and Ryś taking theirs first, the soldier proceeded to claim his. But, as he had done so, a chill dropped down his spine. Standard Fatui issued greatsword with a delusion embedded deep inside it, the early adult could feel his soul ready to depart from his body. He had to use a sinister orb once again? He was done for. But, something else had soon been gifted to him.

Fatui operative soon handing him a metallic breastplate, a peculiar order had come his way. Ginger informing him he must wear this plate of armor, the hyena stared at the steel clothes seated in his palms. Why was he expected to wear armor, all of the sudden? Rat and bobcat given their own coat of arms, as well, the soldier closed his eyes for a moment. He supposed it was better to be safe than sorry.

Slipping the metallic breastplate over his clothes, the duo in front of him were off to the races. Hearing Ryś say that had to hurry and go to the Aquabus now, the early adult dashed off towards them. Right, he had to get to work right away. Sheathing the claymore from behind him, the chimera had begun running.

Krysí informing him as the Aquabus headed towards the Poisson Tunnel that they had to head to the West Slopes of the area first, the hyena nodded. Tunnel soon reached, the early adult stepped off the vessel, party of two jumping off, as well, the soldier deployed his wind glider.

Ryś landing on her feet from high above, the hyena could feel sweat pour down his cheek. How in the world was she able to withstand such a huge jump without a wind glider? But, he supposed, as the rumor goes, cats were always able to land on their feet without getting hurt.

Seeing Krysí get a little whiplash from her descent downward, the soldier dashed off towards her. But, seeing her shake her head, the party of two in front of him had begun walking. Wasting no time, the soldier stepped towards them. Knowing he had to keep his eyes open for any enemies, the chimera scouted the area.

Spotting strange robots in the corner laying down noxious looking ice beds, the early adult accelerated his walk into a sprint. Ryś running faster than everyone combined, her polearm had soon been in front of her. Spear glowing a peculiar light, she thrusted the weapon towards the enemy with gusto.

Watching as the bobcat chimera pressed the tip of her weapon into the construction monster's gears, a white explosion engulfed the creature. Enemy folding itself up into a cocooning state, she soon placed herself into a lunging position. Body becoming intertwined with the javelin, the soldier did a double take as the light kept its bath going.

Multiple enemies slain one after another, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. What delusional element did Ryś' polearm contain inside it? Seeing her huff about as the monsters dropped their spoils of war, he could feel everything slow down, for a moment. Was the weapon taking her life energy? He would need to warn her of the dangers later, if necessary.

But, after a moment of reprieve, more enemies wheeled themselves onto the grass. Mechanical monsters looking ready to swing themselves forward, the soldier readied himself for battle. Ryś ramming herself forward, yellow light taking the stage, the soldier took attempted to step forward.

Seeing her factory partner heave a heavy breath Krysí stepped herself up to the plate. Was she using too much of her strength already? She could not stand by and do nothing and let her fight by herself. Monsters wheeling themselves in she brought her claymore out in front of her.

Swinging the claymore forward, a blinding white light engulfed the robotic army. Keeping her swipes going as more had been defeated, a realization had washed over her. Had Ryś' and she's weapon contained some sort of power native to Fontaine? How poignant if it were taking power from the user.

Watching as Krysí's greatsword glowed a bright yellow light in combat, as well, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had their weapons contained some sort of delusion version of the pneumaousia system? He could not help but feel a chill run down his spine at such possibility. Enemies soon crumbling into nothing, the first round of gear collection soon began.

Continuing to head off towards the eastern direction, something of peculiar note stuck out to the hyena. Machine monsters moving in reverse, the hyena rubbed his eyes. Why were the robots moving in a backwards motion? But, his question would soon have an answer as he moved closer.

Robots exuding peculiar energy, the soldier placed his claymore in front of him. These machines, he had to put them out of their misery as soon as he possibly could. Taking a deep breath as he channeled his energy, round two of unspecified soon began with a crackle.

Delusion on the sword hilt glowing as it activated, the early adult swung the blade forward. Lightning clustering as he slashed about, the Meka Garde gone rogue kept moving in reverse. Cluster only growing larger as he kept his focus forward, a zappy gift had been bestowed upon the enemy.

Krysí summoning her water rats in the corner, and Ryś letting down her flaming fists, the early adult clustered the delusional lightning together once more. Electricity rolling itself up into a ball, the hyena threw the circular object as if it were a sports game waiting to happen.

Enemies seeing the stars, the hyena let out a battle cry as the next round of dark lighting engulfed the enemy. Monster fighting backwards, the soldier shook his head. What a sorry state of affairs this battle had been so far. Whoever had programmed these machines had done it all wrong, for sure.

Every other mechanical enemy becoming nothing but scrap metal, the soldier could feel something suck into his breastplate. Flinching as such took over, discomfort marched an invisible parade. But, the hyena shook such off. The slopes were nearing. He had to keep on moving.

As the party of three had reached the West Slopes of Automnequi, a familiar face stuck out amongst the army of robots. Bain in the corner tossing down her anchor of fire upon multiple mechanical enemies, the hyena swore he could hear her whisper under her breath something had been wrong with the mekas.

Krysí and Ryś bringing their weapons into the picture, the early adult added his claymore to the mix, as well. But, as the battle proceeded onward, nothing had happened. Enemies rotating in reverse as the white light was eaten up like it was some sort of afternoon meal, the army in front of him kept on going.

Hearing Bain whisper under her breath ousia isn't working either? A wave of realization flowed through the hyena. These mekas, did they have an immunity programmed into them that nullified the powers of pneumaousia? If such were the case, he needed to warn everyone.

"Why aren't our weapons working?" Krysí asked, voice shaking.

Question posing itself, the soldier tapped Krysí's shoulder. Eyes soon on him, the hyena pointed at her claymore. Making an x-shape with his index fingers, the soldier shook his head. Rat tilting her head for a moment, a wave of defeat washed over him. Did she not understand him? Wordless language had failed once again.

"Siorc, are you telling me my claymore won't work?" Krysí asked. She then let out a sigh, rat tail coiling up from behind her. "Guess I'll have to call them." She paused for a moment. "Sea rats, hear me!" But, as she said such, her cheeks turned vermillion. "Ryś, do I have to say that every time? It's embarrassing!"

"The louder you scream, the more powerful they'll become!" Ryś exclaimed with confidence. "My turn now! Kitty fire fist!"

Flaming fists of doom and water rat army doing their duty, the soldier stepped himself into the ring. Delusional lightning attack colliding with the flames of terror, the flames overloaded themselves for minutes on end. Bain's flaming anchor adding itself to the mix, the reversed mechanical monsters faded into the ether.

Rest of the enemies becoming nothing but scrap metal, the gears had been collected. Prizes slipped into the back of his satchel, the party of three kept moving forward. Krysí informing him more were in the east slopes, the early adult put on a battle face. It was time to bring the rogue mekas out of their tampered with misery.

But, as the trio walked towards the eastern area within the slopes, the soldier could see Bain walking forward seven paces behind. Seeing such, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. Was she following him? Turning around and walking forward, the early adult ignored such, for the time being. Perhaps, just maybe, she was working some sort of odd job in the same place as the bobcat, rat and he.

Worker mekas pouring down icicle beds in an upside down fashion, the soldier readied for some bladed action. Bain's scythe, Ryś' polearm, and Krysí's greatsword taking the stage as well, multiple swipes kicked into overdrive. Multiple battle cries drowning out all the sound around, the offensive echoed.

Machine dropping down its frosty backwards counterattack, the early adult jumped six steps back. Placing his blade in front of him the ice had soon been sent back to its owner at rapid speed. Enemy freezing into a popsicle, Ryś' fiery fists of terror laid down the next round of pain.

But, such had not been enough to quell the rust bucket into retirement. Reversal whirring, a squeal from the equipment overtook the area. Creature bulldozing itself forward, the ground shook with a fervor. Bed of toxins dropping down in its wake, Ryś soon let out a shout.

"Siorcy, take out the octopus pistol!" Ryś shouted.

Doing as instructed, the soldier placed the sea creature shaped handgun into his right hand. Strange crystals floating around in the bed of acid, instructions had soon come his way. Told to aim the nozzle at the tainted objects, the soldier let loose. Jets of water letting themselves out, the soldier backed away, for a moment.

Such step backward was a mistake. Crystals of many poisons regenerating after being left alone for even a second, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera. Were the foreign objects only able to be destroyed if he fired constantly until destruction? He needed to try harder, if such were the case.

"You can do it, Siorcy!" Ryś shouted. "Get the crystals out of here, meow!"

Encouragement thrown his way, the hyena could feel a new wave of confidence flow through him. Pressing down on the trigger, the soldier held the button down for as long as his fingers would allow. First crystal destroyed after six attempts, the soldier moved onwards towards the second set.

Crystals soon going from purple to green, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. What were these things, his eyes? Why were they changing colors? Shaking his hands for a moment, the early adult reseated his hand upon the trigger. Toxins soon removed, the robot laid down upon its own pool of mechanical death.

Spoils of war soon collected, the duo turned their heads towards Bain. Seeing a nervous disposition on Krysí's face, the soldier prepared himself for possible action. Rat chimera looking ready to ask twenty questions, the hyena backed three steps away. Space was necessary.

"Thank you for helping," Krysí said, voice shaking. "But why were you following us?" But, an answer had come her way immediately.

"Oh, sorry, did it look like I was following you three? That's not the case," Bain said, waving her hands on the air. "I was hired to clean up the mess around the West Slope. I didn't mean to make it look like I was following you around." There was a sense of sincerity in her voice. "But, our paths will not cross further. I'm off to Annapausis." Turning off towards the opposite direction, she readied a word of caution. "If you're continuing east, be careful in Fort Carybdis Ruins and the sea beneath. There's many more there than here."

Bain soon long gone, the group continued to head upon the eastern path. But, as such went on, the hyena could not help but wonder. Just what was going on here? How did so many robots get infused with malicious energy? Perhaps, just maybe, they had truly escaped from the Fortress of Meropide days prior. But, he knew such possibility had been low. But, the peculiarities would only continue to become odder.

As the group continued to head east, mechanical fish out of water exuding dark aura, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. What in the world were these doing here? Shouldn't they have been beneath the sea? But, as his thoughts clouded together, the robotic sea creatures rammed their noses into his partially human person.

Fishy fiends of doom bring out a vortex upon the grassy lands beneath him, the early adult let out a scream. These creatures, just what had they consumed? Something was not right about these monsters at all. Placing the delusional greatsword in front of him, the hyena channeled all his energy.

Cluster of lightning crackling into a ball, the early adult turned towards Krysi, sea rat army soon joining the party, electricity conducted into overdrive. But, the tables soon flipped upside down and turned itself inside out. Vortex releasing itself from the ground beneath it, the rodents were no more, in an instant.

Ryś encouraging Krysí to summon them again, the sea rats returned to the party. But, such had been an immediate failure. Pool remaining strong, Hydro never left its mark upon the enemy. Attacks remaining useless for minutes on end, the chimera swore he could see tears streaming down Krysí's face.

"Krysí, don't cry, meow!" Ryś exclaimed. "You can do it!"

"The vortex keeps eating them up" Krysí cried. "My attacks are useless!"

"We'll just use our weapons, meow!" Ryś exclaimed. "We'll stomp these fish flat!"

White light bathing the mechanical fish into their robotic graves after twelve precise strikes, the army of steel sea creatures got smaller with every passing minute. Delusional electricity added to the mix, the fight soon grew shorter. Everything within the area soon taken care of, the party of three soon moved forward. Cruising through a field a greenish blue grass, the next area was soon upon everyone.

Reaching the fort area after about an hour, the soldier studied the land he had found himself in, for a moment. Large, expansive waterlodged area with an open sea, the chimera jumped seven steps back at the sight before him. Mechanical fish releasing themselves from the ocean, drills spun around as if their inorganic lives depended on it.

Fishy army spinning on in as if they were in it to win it, the chimera brought the blade back in front of him. White lights one after another silencing the mechanical sea creatures, the soldier let out a battle cry as the delusional lightning made its way around the monster's steel body.

First set defeated, the hyena let out a sigh of relief. But, the easy switch soon flipped itself into hard mode. Creatures soon dropping down their bed of toxins, the creatures bathed in their own acidic cesspool of rancid dreams. Reaching for the water pistol, the chimera co*cked the trigger.

Jet of water blasted upon the enemy, the creatures soon melted in their own sea of waste. Crystals of poison forming in their place, the soldier kept the momentum going. Everything soon breaking, the medium switch soon switched into hard mode, in a matter of moments.

Mechanical sea creature raising from the toxic ashes, the hyena let out a scream. How was it able to regenerate so quickly? Letting the octopus pistol take the lead, the soldier pressed the button harder. White light from the rat and bobcat chimera's weapons joining the party, as well, gears rolled around onto the ground as the monster became one with nature.

Gears glowing a deep, dark purple aura, Krysí picked up the spoils. But, as she had done such, her tiny body shook profusely. Seeing such, the chimera could not help but wonder. The gears, could something have been wrong with them? If such were the case, they should be left behind, without question.

"There's something scary inside these gears," Krysí said, voice shaking. "I think we should throw them out."

"You know Her Majesty! If we're even one gear short, she'll reprimand us painfully!" Ryś exclaimed. "We'll just have to hold onto them for now, meow!"

As Krysí reluctantly placed the gears inside the satchel, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. If Krysí and Ryś did not perform as expected, Her Majesty would provide them with violent repercussions? There was no way he could allow such a thing, no matter what.

Moving onward towards the pier in the corner beside the ocean, the hyena turned towards the rat and bobcat chimeras. Could either of them swim? He knew, before going forward, he would need to ask such. Tapping Krysí's shoulder, the chimera placed his hands in front of him.

Eyes soon on him, the soldier flattened his palms. Placing them on top of one another, the early adult held his hands out in front of him as if doing an invisible breast stroke on the air. Repeating the motions, for a moment, the hyena proceeded to fold both his hands into a fist. Moving them downward, the hyena pointed at the party of two. Repeating the first movement from various seconds before, the soldier tilted his head for final measure.

"Can I swim?" Krysí asked. "Yes, I can."

"No worries, no problem!" Ryś exclaimed. "I can swim too! Can you, Siorcy?"

Hearing such a question, the soldier shook his head. Duo turning towards each other looking as though they were pondering something deep, a wave of fear flowed through him. Were they about to suggest he stay behind? Her Majesty would kill him if he did not put in any work underwater.

"We'll wait for you to put on your diving suit," Krysí said. "Please, be careful."

Girls turning around, the soldier removed the fat, blubbery suit from the satchel. Diving equipment soon over him, the soldier gazed at the left glove, for a moment. Was it just him, or had more buttons been added? Stepping off towards the edge of the wooden pier, the hyena steeled himself.

Krysí and Ryś jumping down into the sea beneath them, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind and diving suit synced to one another, the soldier dropped downward into the bed of water below. Peculiar area with floating dew drops and large clamshells looking as though they were bearing gifts, a group of monsters soon reared their heads.

Mechanical fish bearing the gift of poison, the early adult pressed the jellyfish bomb button upon his left glove. Explosive ready and loaded, the early adult let the fish body hits the floor. First of many creatures becoming nothing but scrap metal as their acids readied to leave their mark, the soldier quickly switched over to the octopus pistol.

Toxins quickly taken out of the picture, the early adult turned his attention towards the duo from afar. Spotting them with aquatic ray blades, the chimera blinked. How were they doing that without specialized suits? Had they found some sort of cheat code to life? But, his thoughts were cut short as the next enemy came along.

Group of mechanical sea monsters adding their poisons to the mix, the hyena tossed down the jellyfish explosive. Letting the denotator do its sworn duty, the enemies had become one with the ocean. Toxins cleaned up quickly, but assuredly, the fights continued.

Seeing Krysí and Ryś grab a blue crab's powers from afar, the hyena had his diving suit stroke six paces back. How did they do that? Seeing a string of water slap fish for minutes on end, confusion looped on repeat. Perhaps, maybe they had some sort of device implanted on their chest armor? He supposed such could have been possible.

Hearing motors brushing against the water, the early adult returned to the battle in front of him. Battle strategy rewinding and replaying for minutes on end, the young soldier panted, for a moment. Keeping the momentum going, fatigue hit the fan. Rat and bobcat duo soon swimming by, one soon grew to three. But, as the current fight was about to end, chimeras he did not wish to see had begun to swim onto the scene.

Vidame and Domini stroking by with bright red faces, the early adult's body grew cold. Why were these two here? Wasn't Elton Trench their territory? Surely, the underwater fort area was outside their jurisdiction. It was almost as if, such obstacle was added to throw a wrench into the story. But such fact was unknown to the soldier.

Seeing Ritchie Rich down in the eastern side of their home with a group of friends, Vidame was seeing red. How dare this rich Fatui monster bring down his friends who were probably just as loaded as he was. Who did he think he was? He was not welcome anywhere within the largest body of water in Fontaine. She should send them all packing.

Spotting a rat and little cat freak swimming next to Ritchie Rich, Domini brought out his chain whip. Spinning the weapon around, he glued his eyes onto the squeaky rodent in the corner. How dare Ritchie Rich think he can bring other people down to the ocean and lay down their toxic waste? Little rat girl was going to be given the brunt of the lesson.

Spinning the chain whip once more, the metallic edges bit down upon the ratty enemy. Metal slapping down with a fury, Domini kept on pressing. Reaching inside his feathered down, for a moment, the next weapon revealed itself to the class. Flailing the tool around, the little tiny rat's face was a magnet for fighting. Tears streaming down the definitely, without a doubt, rich loser's face, a smirk appeared on his face. Good, the little rich baby was crying. Just what he wanted.

"Ow! Why did you do that?" Krysí asked, weeping. "Please watch where you swing that thing!"

"Oops, my bad!" Domini shouted, sarcastic tone of voice. "My weapon has a mind of its own against rich people!" But, another shout soon diluted his own.

"You did that on purpose, meow!" Ryś exclaimed, rage evident in her voice. "We're just here to clean up the silly fish!"

"Yeah, right, sure you are! And I'm the queen of Fontaine!" Vidame shouted, pointing upward. "Get outta here, or Domini will whip her again!"

Everyone heeding the warning, the group of three returned to the surface. Krysí letting out a pant of a lifetime, a wave of concern flowed through the soldier's face. Was she okay? Ryś soon wiping her face with sanitary wipes, the soldier backed ten steps away. It was best to give them privacy, for a moment. Trio soon sitting by the ocean for a moment, thoughts were exchanged for a brief moment.

Krysí asking what was up with those penguins, the soldier concurred. Why were they always so quick to resort to verbal insults and violence? Surely, the entire underwater world did not belong to them. But, he supposed the toxins that had been dropped down had put them further on edge. The sea of collected thoughts, however soon dialed itself up to the dire switch.

"Krysí, aren't we forgetting something?" Ryś asked Krysí. Eyes soon on her, silence fell, for a moment.

"You're right," Krysí said to Ryś. "We have to had to the Icewind Suite in Marcotte Station." She then turned towards Siorc. "Uh, Is it alright if return to the Aquabus?"

Giving Krysí a nod, the party of three dashed back towards Romaritime Harbor. Hopping back onto the Aquabus, a special request had been delivered to the Melusine tour guide. Given a nod that she'll have it turn towards Erinnyes, the vehicle of automatic movement soon pushed forward.

As the Aquabus passed through Poisson Tunnel, the early adult gazed at the scenery around him. The Beryl Region and beyond, could they have been plagued with mechanical fish, as well? He supposed he would find out in the near future. Boat soon rearing off to the right, Marcotte Station was soon nearing.

Vessel parking itself beside the station beside the opera house, a sea of enemies brought themselves out of hiding. Fishy fiends near every single fountain imaginable, the early adult let out a sigh. The mechanical sea creature were everywhere? There was no escape.

Enemies taken out of the picture as every pathway had been passed through, a man with a camera from afar recording a feminine mechanical puppet dancing with her male partner, the soldier had a quick realization. Right, this was the icewind suite. He recalled the first time he had come here, the mekas were dancing to the same tune of nothing.

Ryś speaking to the man beside his kamera, a question about whether they wanted to fight Coppelia and Coppelius had come the rat and bobcat chimera's way. Krysí stating she would fight Coppelia, and Ryś stating she would take on Coppelius, the man said he would get them ready.

Spotlight soon shining upon the battlefield, the early adult dashed onto the scene. Figuring it was best to lend support to both sides, the soldier watched the battle dolls' movements off in the corner. Puppets joining hands with one another, and spinning, the power of wind and ice took the stage.

Ryś bringing down her fiery fist of doom upon the male dancer, Anemo and Pyro swirled into overdrive. Wind crackling into a burst, the robot stepped back for a moment. Krysí releasing her water rats upon his female robot companion, everything was soon two for one. But, such advantage did not last long.

Feminine dancer robot skating around the open field, icy spikes galore, the soldier could feel his heart skip a beat as he could hear a the icicles begin to blow. Knowing he had to add himself to the mix, the early adult placed the greatsword in front of him. Delusional lightning colluding with the icicles, sparks had begun to fly.

Dance of wind and purple crystal dropping onto the battlefield, the early adult ran towards the block of energy. Power of Ousia flowing through him, the early adult had his blade spin around like a top. Hearing a loud crack as his the crystal aimed itself at one of the robots, Krysí and Ryś added their weapons to the mix.

White light engulfing the opposite mechanical doll, the enemies stopped moving, for a moment. Knowing such was the best opportunity to strike, the hyena let out a scream. Lightning balling up once more, the delusional electricity soon engulfed the enemies once more.

Static clinging to the dolls, Hydro, Pyro and delusional Electro took turns dancing with one another. Robots looking weaker with every given second, a burst of wind took to the stage as the final moments of the performance were ready to sing their swan song. Enemies weakly rotating their mechanical limbs, battle cries hit the floor.

Krysí's water rat army becoming one, the robots had soon become scrap metal casualties as the final blow soon took them out of the picture. Multiple wind up cores dropping from some strange wooden flower, Krysí and Ryś soon ran off towards the photographer man in the corner.

Apologies coming his way on repeat for destroying the machinery, words of reassurance had come the girl's way. Told that multiple adventurers come by to fight them, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. Why were adventurers tussling with the machines in the icewind suite? Were they some sort of enemy that dropped materials to make a person stronger? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, and even beyond, every single person in the world with powers could only get stronger by collecting items for them. But such fact was unknown to the hyena.

Turning his head toward the sky, the hyena stared off into space. How had it already been nighttime? Time had a way of sneaking up on him when hard at work. Hearing Ryś yawn, suggestions of heading back to Hotel Deboard had come everyone's way. Stepping back towards the Aquabus, the ride back to the city played out in silence.

Reaching the hotel, the ginger Fatui stood in the corner lying in wait. Whispers of a three bed suite being booked by a generous Harbinger, the early adult tilted his head towards the ceiling. Why would one of the Harbingers do such a thing? There had to have been some sort of catch.

Guided towards the expensive room of marvels, the party of three adjourned. Rolling himself up into the squeaky cot in the corner, the soldier closed his eyes as soon as his head hit the pillow. World of sleep calling him back in, one final thought wrapped vines around him.

Why were there mechanical fish everywhere?

***

"Nyahaha, it's all going according to plan!
Yes, our little friends
Are bringing Fontaine to its knees.
Hahahah, nyahahaha, soon, they'll
All be saying, all hail to the abyss!
Hahahah, nyahahaha, when we're
All done here, we'll get back what's ours.
Here ye, here yet, to the
Abyss! Everything in the end will go back to where it belongs!

As this land was never theirs! Those
Loathful Archons! Those
Loathful humans! We hope you like sinking, either

Hold out for your last few moments, or bow down to the
Abyss! You'll have no choice when we
Incur the final judgement!
Look, here comes the curtain call!

The stage has arrived!
Hahaha, nyahahaha, go ahead, run and hide!
Everything will soon belong to us!

All will soon return to us!
But fret not, Teyvat, if
You give yourself up to us, we'll
Spare you from your
Suffering in this Archon forsaken world!

Everything will soon return to us! We shall open the
Valve and let it all drown!
Everything will belong to us, hear our
Roar! This world is all a lie!
Yes, all a lie!
The sky is fake! The
Heavenly Principles, we shall
Incur our wrath, and take back what
Never belonged to them!
Get in line, Celestia!

It's us versus the divine!
So, get in line!

Our story is about to reach its
Ultimate, peak, the
Rise! Nyahahaha! That failed attempt to
Sickle that fool meddling with us was only the beginning. We have more planned!"

Upon waking up the next morning, a morning briefing had been provided to the chimera as Krysí and Ryś read the Steambird in the corner of the hotel room. Informed they would have to go around Elynas and the Liffey Region to collect more meka gears for Her Majesty, the group stepped outside their temporary headquarters.

Croissants with jam on it laid out on their reserved table, the soldier bit into the breaded breakfast food. Jelly hitting his throat, the early adult flinched. Why was this thing so sweet? It had too much sugar in it, for sure. But, he knew he had no right to complain. Chewing the bread slowly, the soldier turned his attention towards the rat and bobcat chimera. Newspaper still out in front of them, a headline was soon shouted out.

"Hydro Archon dramatically shouted in court, 'If they can't afford cake, let them eat bread!' Huh?" Ryś asked, bewildered tone of voice. "Meow? Krysí, what does that mean?" Pointing at the headline, she tilted her head. "I don't get it!"

"Uh, it's probably just some sensationalistic headline the journalists are printing to get readers," Krysí said in a matter of fact tone. "But, it's time to stop reading the paper." Peering her head around the newspaper, her eyes were on Siorc. "Ryś forgot to mention we have to head to the Research Institute at some point later today and fight some gear machine. Be careful, and please let us know if you get yourself hurt."

Hearing Krysí mention something about a gear machine, the hyena tilted his head. They were heading off to a research institute as well? Would people like them even be allowed to set foot in such a place? He supposed he would soon find out. Everyone eating their fill of sugar filled bread, the group headed off towards the Beryl region.

Reaching the halfway point near Poisson Tunnel once again, the soldier deployed his wind glider. Krysí shrinking herself down into rat form as Ryś jumped down, as well, she landed on her feet two days in a row. Seeing such, the hyena's eyes twitched of astonishment. Felines were very impressive. But, immediately upon reaching the mountains, a surprise awaited.

Fish practically everywhere along the mountains, the soldier's chest sunk like a rock. There was still more of the mechanical sea creatures? Something wasn't right about this at all. Creatures drilling their way towards everyone, the early adult placed his weapon in front of him.

Krysí telling him to put on the steel breastplate first, the soldier halted his fight, for a moment. Ironclad defense clamped down upon him, the hyena took a long deep breath. The time had come to vanquish the fish of many tricks before they were to lay down their toxins in any more waters.

Delusional lightning cast upon the enemy, the soldier could feel the energies suck themselves into the breastplate once more. Metals crunching down on him, the early adult flinched. What was this armor doing? But, he supposed, whatever it could be doing, it was blocking something harmful.

Zapping other mechanical sea creatures to oblivion before they were able to lay down their acids upon the world, the early adult dashed forward as the robot fish of many evils drilled off towards the right. Krysí and Ryś' attack of white light bathing the creature deep, gears dropped from multiple enemies.

Krysí repeating once more the gears had a scary pulse to them, the soldier could feel goosebumps mount upon his backside. The enemy drops, had something been lodged inside them? Something was not right about any of this, for sure. More fish taken out of the picture as the group headed north, the pulse comment kept on coming.

Ryś unleashing her flaming claws upon the next enemy, the soldier stared off into space, for a moment. The gears, could they have been living, and breathing like the Oratrice? But, the hyena shook his head. There was no way that could have been the case. He had to have been overthinking it, for sure.

Continuing to move onward for minutes on end, multiple fish had soon been taken out of their mechanical misery. Multiple gears glowing with some sort of purple goop, the fear nibbled on the cartilage of the chimera's ear. The mechanical parts from the fish, why were they engulfed in such a light? How peculiar.

But, things were only about to take a turn for the tank as the party of three had reached the heated pool of water. Mechanical fish equipped to the brim with artillery aplenty, warning bells sung in the chimera's head. Who gave these machines access to such equipment? If they were loaded with toxins, the game was over; he would be a vegetable upon the ground.

Monsters turning their eyeless heads, the creatures' flippers kicked into speed. End wicks lighting themselves up on their own, the doom toll chimed as the missiles were about to take flight. The flaming bullets, they were coming, flying, soaring. He was in trouble. Any second now.

Explosives singing their songs as they strung closer, the early adult jumped five steps back. Krysí and Ryś still in the corner of the mountains taking out stray armies of mechanicals, the soldier closed his eyes. He was alone. He had to fight these monsters solo. He was done, finished, about to become a vegetable if his jumps were not far enough back.

Bullets curving past him and landing upon the ground, the hyena could feel a door close. Crystals of goop releasing, the early adult let the hand pistol do its duty. Toxins taken out of the picture, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. But, such only lasted a moment.

Machines firing up their bullets once more, the soldier let out a shout. Blade out in front of him, the hyena jumped ten steps back as the missiles were ready to decorate him. Weapons bounced back to their owner, no damage had been blown upon the enemies.

Multiple attacks deflected back doing absolutely nothing, the early adult grit his teeth. Were the mechanical fish immune to their own artillery? If such were the case, his delusion was the only choice, for sure. Electricity soon doing nothing as well, the hyena readied to wave the white flag upon the battlefield.

Krysí and Ryś soon running onto the scene, elements and all, nothing amounted to anything. Hydro and Pyro as weak as a Cicin, the mechanical fish's tails spun. White light failing as well, the early adult flinched. What were these enemies, invincible? Surely, something would be able to beat them.

A suggestion with a pinch of wild would soon break loose.

Ryś soon suggesting they should push the mechanical fish into the water, the early adult scratched the side of his head. What would pushing them into the water do? The fish could swim, there was no way that would work. Krysí inquiring if she's sure, that plan doesn't seem like it would work, the soldier could not help but agree. There was no way that would defeat them, for sure.

"Trust me on this one," Ryś said, high confidence in her voice. "It'll work, meow!"

Bobcat sounding absolutely certain, the hyena let out a sigh. How would something like this work? The fish would be able to swim. This was a terrible plan. But, he supposed anything was worth a shot. Lunging himself forward, the chimera practically did a grasswheel.

Arms on the mechanical sea creatures, the party of three tugged the monsters towards the boiling pool of heat and pain. Steam piping up around the metallic plates, the soldier swore he could hear the fish claim they were melting like a wicked western witch in another universe.

Gears collected one after another, the early adult gazed at the drops. Middle cog pulsating, the soldier could feel a chill down his spine. Why were they doing that? Throwing the objects back into the satchel, the hyena returned his attention towards the pathway in front of him.

Continuing northward for the time being, peculiar mechanical bugs swarmed around the area. Duo in front of him swatting them away, the soldier tilted his head. Where had those insects come from? He had never seen them before around Elynas. Creatures not attacking, the early adult shrugged. It was best to continue moving forward, for the time being.

But, as the hyena headed near the entrance towards Merusea Village, the sea lion pranksters popped their heads out of the water. Eyes soon on him, the early adult let out a groan. Why were they looking at him? What could they possibly want from him? Whatever it was, he had no time for them, nor their pranks or jokes. He was on the nonexistent clock.

"Bro, the problems just keep coming!" Brume exclaimed, flapping his flippers on the water. "Some kooky fish are on the loose around Elynas!"

"Kill them, dude!" Eclater shouted.

The hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Did they really have to state the obvious? He didn't need to be informed on what had already been obvious. They should focus on their problems down in their own village. Weren't they tired of popping their heads up towards the surface by now?

"We already know about that," Krysí said, voice shaking. "But, thank you for the warning regardless." Her tail coiled up from behind her.

Sea lion duo dropping back down into the sea, the early adult held back the urge to groan. No matter how often he were to head towards Elynas, the prankster sea lions would step up to the plate and lay down their minor annoyance. But, he supposed he had already been used to such. He knew, no matter how many times he were to come here, an encounter was guaranteed.

Stepping off towards the northern path, a group of mechanical fish reared their eyeless heads. Looking ready to bring about pain to whomever came across them, the party of three had begun to get on the offensive. Robot sea creatures taking the heat, their bodies had become useless scrap metal.

Multiple fish taken out of their mechanical misery one after another, the early adult flinched as the gears were handed off to him. Why were the cogs in the middle still pulsating? Tossing them into the satchel, the onslaught kept on going. Inorganic enemies sliced, diced and served dead, the gear collection grew.

Missile firing enemies broken down into scrap metal after seven attempts to quell the beast, the hyena could feel a brief moment of fatigue. Was it just him, or were the monsters beginning to reverse back to getting tougher the further the duo and he were getting into Elynas? Group soon veering off towards the left, a beast circle opened itself up.

Large mechanical sea cherub clanging its steel scales, the hyena jumped ten steps back. How in the world did such a creature get here? But, there was no time to think. Armored plates upon its backside hurled upon the air, the battle soon begun once more. Spikes fired in rapid succession, the soldier jumped right, left, front, and center.

Watching as Ryś aimed her claws at the center of the cherub's belly, the hyena looked away, for a moment. Creature letting out a squeal, defenses reduced themselves to a pile of ashes. Claws continuing to do their bidding, a spiky gear soon dropped itself from the enemy's shell.

Moving past the beast circle area, the soldier turned his attention towards the deepest areas within Elynas. Seeing an array of enemies from afar, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Was he seeing decuple? But, the soldier shook his head. Impossible, he had to have been imagining it. But, such afar observation came true in a matter of a half-hour of walking.

School of mechanical fish swarming around the edges of Elynas, the early adult could hear a swam of shouts exclaiming submit themselves to the abyss. Hearing such, the soldier let out a sigh. Was this yet another gift from the gazelles again? How comical of them. They needed to dot the final period on this chapter of their lives of monster summoning.

Group of steel sea denizens twitching their tails forward, a barrage of bubbles blinded the area. World around the trio doused in steamy circular foam, the early adult rubbed his eyes. Where did everything go? Layers only increasing as the seconds raged onward, visibility soon was ready to fall into the negatives.

Claymore swinging and missing as the mist persisted, the soldier let out a scream. A school of fish was far more sinister than a singular lone wishy-washy outlier. Mist only continuing to worsen, the world was a white blanket of nothingness. Party of two in the corner failing as well, everything was nothing.

Knowing his only choice was to swing his greatsword through the storm, the hyena placed himself into a fighting position. Greatsword swinging about in a circular motion, Krysí and Ryś copied such movements. Mechanical fish swept up into the chaos one after another, the group had begun to drop faster than flies did on a winter evening.

School decimated after one hundred attacks combined, everything let out a huff. Krysí reminding everyone the next order of business was the Liffey Region, everyone headed back towards the northern pathway. Cutting through the capital city of Fontaine and moving back towards the northern exit, more fish awaited.

Multiple fish decimated as the party of three headed through the northern area, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Any minute now, and they would be heading past the beach. The sands near Salacia Plain, the hawk's territory. If he were anywhere in the area, act of violence, chapter two, would release itself to the world.

Seeing the hawk and falcon chimera flying off in the distance as the group of three had begun to head towards Mount Esus East, the early adult let out a gulp. It was about to be be over for him, Finished, done. If the hawk were to spot him, he would be arrowed down, for sure.

Continuing onward, the soldier turned his attention towards the sky. Robin, if he were to spot either Krysí or Ryś, he would add them to his bounty list of people to bring justice to. If he were to incur his justice driven wrath upon them, he would not allow it. If he were about to launch arrows at either of them, the hawk would have to go through him. The territorial squabble should not be stretched out to one time guests of the region.

Hearing Electro and Dendro warfare in the skies above, the soldier could feel tension rising inside him. They were hunting bounties. He was about to step into their fighting grounds once more. The Archons, had they forsaken him? But, he had already been familiar with the mountains being the bird duo's territory. There was nothing he could do to avoid stepping through. Inevitabilities were an unavoidable certainty that could not be changed easily.

Mount Esus only fifty meters away, the soldier could feel his legs turn to stone. Any second now, he was back in bird territory, population two. Krysí and Ryś, no matter what, if they were about to added to the hawk chimera's growing list of people to arrow down, he would take the brunt of the force.

One foot soon stepped upon the Justice Hawk of Fontaine's territory, eyes from afar were soon on the bobcat, rat and he. Entire box of arrows dropped onto the string, the early adult's shark teeth chattered. He was going all out now? Had the violence bug bit him?

Arrow barrage raining towards Ryś, the early adult tossed himself in front of the young chimera. Weapon rain clamping down onto his breastplate one after another, the soldier let out a sigh of relief. Extra defenses were the key to safety, without a shadow of a doubt. Hawk soon dropping down, talons out, a face of utter rage painted his face.

Fatui in his territory once again with his invasive plus one, Robin could see rage. When will this Fatui ever learn that Mount Esus from east to west was his territory? If he did not leave this instant, he would make sure his armor wouldn't last another attack. But, a distraction soon cut his one track mind in half.

Seeing a tiny little rat in the corner next to the putrid cat, Robin flapped his wings upward. Yes, that little rodent down there, he would make an example out of it, and steal that villain's snack for himself. That would teach the Fatui to stay away from his territory. This time, for sure it would be the last he'd see of this evil vagrant and his even viler recruited subordinates.

"Fatui, how dare you bring your evil subordinate with you into my territory!" Robin shouted from the sky.

Attempting to remember what Krysí told her, Ryś placed her claws on her chin. What was it she had to do in a situation with a territorial person in the mountain ranges? Oh, right. Act like spelunkers. Act like an ore miner. She remembered now. She was just passing through. Right, that was it.

"We're just a group of miners passing through, meow!" Ryś retorted, voice wavering. But such was met with immediate criticism.

"Sure you are!" Robin bit back. "And, I'm King Remus reincarnated!" He then swooped down, snatched the tiny little rat vermin into the tips of his bird talons. "Leave my territory, or I'll eat this little snack you're saving for later!"

Feeling herself scooped up into the talons of a bird, Krysí could feel her tiny rat body about to give out. This is it, this is how she's going to die. Why did her body have to shrink down to her miniature form now, of all times? She was finished, a meal for a hawk. Her mother would be disappointed for losing the competition against a predator animal.

Watching as Robin took rat Krysí hostage, a wave of disgusting flowed through him. How dare this hawk scoop her up and threaten to eat her. How incredibly cruel of him. How abhorrent. What a low place to go. He deserved to have his pay docked by a ninety-nine percent decrease for such a crime.

"Let go of me," rat Krysí choked out. "I'm not food!"

"I apologize, my boyfriend is just a little too justice driven sometimes," Raven apologized. He then turned towards his boyfriend. "Robin, put the rat down. She's a chimera, just like us."

"Cats are the enemies, Raven!" Robin fired back.

Raven shook his head a smidgeon. While such fact was correct, his lover was being quite unreasonable. Maybe it was best to tell him he could save such hostilities towards other cats that might enter their territory at a later date. He supposed saying such was a worth a shot.

"Hon, we'll save that for other cats that enter our territory," Raven said. "Please, let the rat girl go." He then turned toward the cat. "Apologies, Mademoiselle Cat. Would it be so troublesome if I request that you three to leave? We were here first."

Looking of shock soon on Robin's face, Krysí's tiny rat body had soon been airborne. Knowing that, if she were to land on the ground, she would become a rodent pancake, the early adult ran forward. Laying his hands out, the hyena tried with all his might to catch her. Rodent landing directly into his palms, the soldier puffed a sigh of relief.

"Since you gave back my friend, we'll leave," Ryś said, crooking her head towards the sky.

Hawk looking ready to get on the offensive once more, the party of three had begun to sprint off towards the eastern bridge. They needed to get out of here. Run, leap, get out of there. Bird duo only getting further away as the mountain range grew further with every step, but after traversing the broken bridge, the soldier halted his movement for a moment.

Turning his attention towards now human form Krysí, a wave of concern flowed through the hyena. Was she alright? She had to have been shaken up from such encounter, for sure. Eyes soon on him, the soldier placed his hands in front of him. Signing the inquiry about whether she was alright, his hands were studied, for a moment.

"I appreciate the concern, but, I'm fine," Krysí said, voice shaking. "This happens all the time. I've had my fair share of moments being scooped up by some big bird. I'll try to maintain my human form for now."

Long line of fish everywhere the eyes could see, the group of three kept the fights going. Scenery beginning to change as the mechanical sea monsters were removed from the picture. Small area with multiple buildings that looked like they could have possibly been abandoned facilities, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena.

Walking around an empty room with nothing but research documents, the hyena gulped. Could there have been someone that could have been working there? If such were the case, they all needed to proceed with caution, guaranteed. Walking near a building that had no roof to speak of, an unfamiliar monster stood motionless upon a platform.

Large gear monster sitting around doing absolutely nothing, a spark popped off in the hyena's brain. Why did this mechanical being seem so familiar? He could not quite pinpoint where this sense of remembrance had come from. But, he knew there was no time to think. The battle was now.

Hearing a switch click itself on, the gear monster revved itself up into overdrive. Fish monsters joining the party as well, a wave of confusion flowed through the hyena. Where did those extra enemies come from? Something was not right about this whatsoever. But, such had not been the only peculiarity.

Taking a closer look, something of particular note stuck out to the soldier. Was it just him, or was the gear turning backwards? Something was robotically fishy about this entire situation, for sure. Shockwaves soon taking shape, a disembodied voice threw everyone for a loop and did a triple backflip.

"This world belongs to the abyss!" a disembodied voice shouted.

The hyena let out a sigh. This again? Why did everything always lead back to the abyss, whatever, or wherever that was? The abyssal fawn duo, they weren't doing a very good job of hiding their tracks. Gear monster looking as thought it only had a few more seconds to live, the soldier brought out the delusional claymore.

Krysí and Ryś vanquishing the fish army in the background, the soldier prepared himself for the delusional lightning attack to end all gear monsters. But, as he prepared himself, gravity had begun to peace itself out and go to a higher plane of existence. Feeling like he could float as everything around him lessened, the chimera leaped upward.

Letting the lightning take the lead, the soldier dropped downward upon the gear's center multiple times in a row. Gravity still bidding the room farewell for minutes on end, the early adult kept the momentum going. Party of two beside him soon joining the plunging party as well, the weakness creeped up upon themselves.

Final round of blows with a Hydro gift kissed upon the steel enemy, the gear monster faded into the ether. Seeing only two gears drop from the strange wooden flower, the early adult turned his attention towards Rys. Eyes darting around, doom soon loomed over the room, death flags laying down their mushrooms everywhere.

"Oh, no!" Ryś shouted, voice frantic. "We don't have enough meka parts! What are we going to do?!"

"We'll just have to continue this tomorrow," Krysí responded. "It's getting late now, we should head back to the hotel."

Rat and bobcat chimera duo heading back down the mountain with their heads hung low, the early adult could feel fear about to feast upon him. If Krysí and Ryś were to fail this mission, what would happen to them? But, the early adult kept such thoughts of their possible demise away. He could not allow himself to jump towards the worst case scenario. Surely, they would get enough gears by tomorrow.

As the party of three had begun to head back towards the hotel, the soldier knew now more than ever. The abyssal gazelles, there was no way it could have been anyone except them who had been behind all this fishy chaos. He needed to watch out for them and any of their schemes, for certain.

Soon reaching their hotel room, the party of three adjourned. Rat and bobcat out like a light almost immediately, the soldier crawled himself up into his hotel cot. Heavy wave of fatigue flowing through him as his head hit the pillow, the hyena closed his eyes, but as the world of sleep were about to come for him, one final question came with him into the land of tormented dreams.

Why were the abyss gazelles still doing this?

***

Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the hyena's adult Fatui life. The cycle of anguish was a feel of misgivings, always landing on the worst possible outcome with every spin. The next spin was about to land itself on the worst possible losing tile in the night before him, as well.

Before him had been a cage inside a bed of sunflowers. Seeing such plants trapped together with him, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed he would let it go that flowers were in his dream world. They were going to be in it no matter how many times he were to fall asleep and wind up in the land of the subconscious.

Everything was ready to take a turn for the fire.

Metal imprisonment bursting into flames, the soldier turned his dream head upward. Abyss gazelle bringing on the fire like they always did, the early adult rolled his eyes to the dream sky. Why were Kelebek and Izzet here? Didn't they ever get tired of causing problems for him in both the mortal, waking world and the subconscious dream world? They were a virus that never went away, spreading their plague further.

"Your little friends are going to get it!" Izzet shouted. Flames soon entered their hands.

"You hope he likes fire!" Kelebek shouted. "It will be all he and two's sees!"

Balls of fire soon coming his way as the steel bars evaporated into nothing, the early adult's dream eyes opened wide. He needed to get away, run, hide. But, such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Currently hyena legs burning away into ashes, the flames only grew stronger.

Everything becoming charcoal, the soldier's body dropped down upon the grass of nothingness. Death in the dream world coming for him swift, the hyena closed the dream eyes. As defeat sung its swan song on repeat, unease claimed victory. Safety was long dead, torment was the victor.

Danger was everywhere.

No matter what, he had to keep Krysí and Ryś safe.

***

"Is that abyss gazelle serious? They

Chanted, my friends
Are going to get it. While they are just my coworkers,
No way. I won't allow it.
This cannot happen, I can't

Let them be targeted.
Even if I have to use my body as a shield, I cannot let
Them be targeted.

They do not come to Fontaine often.
How could they drag Krysí and Ryś into this?
Every single time
My duties are brought to Fontaine, these two escalate.

Guess they are making their moves.
Even so, I won't let
Them target the bobcat and rat chimera.

How dare they say they're going to get it. You made the
Ultimate mistake. Just leave your
Revenge banner upon me. Leave
The others out of it. They have nothing to do with this."

Upon waking up the next morning, the early adult let out a pained scream. The dream he had would not leave his partially human mind. Eyes soon wandering towards him, the hyena buried himself underneath his temporary covers. Did he disturb the two of them while in their slumber? How incredibly rude of him.

"Siorc," Krysí said in a stern voice. "What's wrong?"

Inquiry coming his way, Siorc took a deep breath. What was he doing, letting himself get worked up over the dream? They were a product of the imagination. They were not real, under any circ*mstances. He needed to let go of it and focus on the workday about to be upon him.

"It is nothing," the early adult responded, voice barely audible. He then took a deep breath once more. The gazelle duo. He needed to bear a word a caution about them. "If you see a group of gazelles wearing black clothing, watch out for them."

"Okay! We'll watch out for them, meow!" Ryś responded, practically purring. "But, we're heading to the Fortress of Meropide today to do some mining, so we probably won't run into the guy you're warning us about!"

The early adult tilted his head off towards the ceiling. He was doing what today? Doing some mining? Where did this order suddenly come from? He had not been informed of this at all. Why hadn't he been told about this sooner? There was no way he could prepare himself for such a mission on such short notice.

"Ryś, you were supposed to tell Siorc about that when we came by his door two days ago," Krysí scolded.

"Oh, I was? Sorry, Krysí, I forgot!" Ryś said to Krysí. "Forgive me?" She then turned towards Siorc. "Anyway, we have to ask this Iudex person to let us take some passageway to the prison! Do you know where his office is, Siorcy?"

Knowing the Iudex was often seen in his office at the Palais Mermonia, the soldier took the lead. Taking the glass lift up onto the fourth floor of the city, the palace had soon been reached. Ryś greeting the Melusine at the reception desk asking where the Iudex was, instructions of needing to schedule an appointment had come the bobcat's way.

"Appointment? But, he's expecting us, meow!" Ryś exclaimed. "Please let us go see him!"

Melusine looking ready to wave an invisible flag stating she'll allow it just this once, the early adult could feel his heart pound in a furious manner in his chest. Why was he feeling so nervous for? He was only going to the mines in the back of the prison this time. Iudex giving a frozen stoic, but somewhat kind look as Krysí walked into his office, she soon did the honors.

"Excuse me, Monsieur Iudex," Krysí said, voice shaking. "We need to go down to the Fortress of Meropide." Her legs were shaking as she said such. This man was important wasn't he? She could not mess this up. "Could we ask for your permission to borrow the lift that will take us down there?"

"I will allow it," the Iudex said. But, his eyes soon wandered off towards the hyena. "Two particular residents in the fortress have gotten quite fond of you, Mr. Siorc."

Hearing such remark, the hyena almost did a quadruple take. How strange. Who could have possibly taking a liking to him down in the fortress? This had to have been the Iudex's idea of a joke. Soon escorted off towards the Aquabus, Marcotte Station awaited.

Walking down the long straight path with many fountains galore, and soon passing by the opera house, an even deeper walk had come upon the party of two and he. Iudex escorting the group further down, the glass lift at the edge of the world, everyone placed themselves in the glass box. Lift dropping down for quite a long time, the underground world of criminals soon awaited. But, as soon as they reached the receptionist desk, two recent faces crooked their heads around.

"Why are you here?" Huxian asked. "Did you get yourself arrested, or something?"

"Arrested? No, meow!" Ryś responded. "We're here to see the duke to get his permission to go to the mines out back!"

"The duke? He's probably in his office right about now," Pixiu said. "I guess we can take you to see him, but he's probably busy right now. He won't have time for non-criminals stopping by, I bet."

Soon escorted off to the duke's office, the young man and leader of the prison banged papers on his desk in a neat manner. Eyes soon wandering off towards Huxian and Pixiu, the soldier swore a tired smile appeared on his face. But, the soldier shook his head. He was definitely imagining it.

"Zack, Monique, what do you need?" the duke asked.

"My name is not Zack, and her name is not Monique," 'Zack' responded. They then point at Siorc. "He and his group have to go to the mines out back."

"Sure. Go right ahead," the duke responded. "Why don't you go with them, Zack and Monique?"

"Fine, we'll go with them," 'Zack' responded. "By the way, my name is not Zack, and her name is not Monique."

Under sea otter duo stepping in front of them, the escort off towards the abandoned production industry out back soon began. But, as the multiple steel doors opened to prepare for the long reach outward to the ore deposits center, the hyena could not help but feel something had been amiss.

Hearing Krysí say that had to gather green stones within the mines and take them to a factory for smithing once done, the early adult let out a sigh. Just how many details did these two leave out? But, he supposed he did not blame them for such. Moving forward through the mines, a familiar monster let its presence be known.

Monsters infused with dark energy, the early adult cracked his knuckles. The faster he were to destroy the monsters, the better. Greatsword swiped forward, the soldier let out a battle cry. Fish retiring to the world of scrap metal, the early adult kept slashing about.

But, the fights soon reversed back towards the hard swing. Defeated fish soon fusing itself with another one, the cycle continued. Second fusing with the third shortly after its defeat, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What in the world was wrong with this mining area? No wonder it had been abandoned.

Third, fourth, and fifth fish monsters absorbing themselves into the sixth, the early adult let the delusional electricity to do the talking. Was this place equipped with stronger reactions to magnetic poles? How peculiar, if such were the case. Everyone soon giving it their all, the new and improved robotic sea creature energy dissolved into nothing but water.

Krysí and Ryś doing their crystal run and done, another challenger soon rose to its one second of prominence. Construction meka attempting with all their might to turn the tables, Huxian and Pixiu tugged on their crosses, for a moment. Holy light bathing them deep, the army of robots was gone within the blink of an eye. Seeing such, the early adult rubbed his eyes. What in the world did he just see? Their battle skills were far above his own league.

Rat and bobcat chimera dashing around and grabbing as many green minerals as they could, the early adult could not help but wonder. What could any of this possibly been for? He did not know why, but he couldn't help but feel something had been rather useless about these minerals. Her Majesty would not have any use for this, guaranteed. But, as his thoughts continued to play out, they were soon interrupted.

"I think we have collected enough now," Krysí said. She then turned towards the strangers in the corner. "Excuse me, sorry to disturb you. But, do you know where the factory might be?"

"What factory?" Huxian asked, puzzled.

"The place where we can smelt and smith this stuff, meow!" Ryś replied.

Hearing the cat stranger mention just now they needed to smelt stuff, Pixiu put their finger on their chin, for a moment. What factory? But, then it came back to her. Oh, right, the place underneath the sea unicorn's abode. That place. She needed to go there, without question. These women were definitely up to no good.

"I know where it is," Pixiu said. "But, we're going, and we're staying in there while you smith."

Hearing Pixiu demand she come along, the early adult could not help but ponder. That lair inside the Liffey Region that contained a purple sea unicorn, could it have been underneath that area? He did not know why, but he seemed to remember there had been a pathway someone could drop off of to swim through a cave.

Soon exiting the prison and returning to the underwater world, a short journey towards the sea unicorn's abode took the area by a rainstorm. Quickly dropping beside the monster's home, a new path off in the corner had soon been reached. Dropping down into an area with rushing falls, for a moment, the next pathway was being moved towards.

Reaching a room with a peculiar valve that needed to be opened up, the early adult took a deep breath. Was this a dead end, could they go no further? But, such had been proven wrong in a matter of moments. Pixiu pressing a button, the door opened itself.

Soon finding themselves in a large secluded room with a peculiar gigantic pressing machine nearly four times Krysí's size, the early adult tilted his head. What was he looking at, exactly? Rat chimera braving the walkway, an assortment of green crystal was ready to be fired upon the smelter.

Strange stock inserted into the machine, the hyena could not help but wonder. What had to be done here? Whatever the final product might have been for, there was no way it would be anything useful. But, he knew he needed to throw such thoughts away. Krysí ready to pound the deposits into submission, she prepared herself to press the button, but Pixiu soon pushed her away.

"I'll do it," Pixiu said. "Watch out, I smell gas."

Pixiu turning her head towards the machine, the hyena paid close attention towards her movement. Peculiar gas surrounding the claws, a button had soon been pressed. Machine opening its talons and pressing down upon the green mineral stock, a loud crash took shape.

Machine soon steaming up once again Pixiu let the claws do their smashing session once more. Underwater sea otter beginning to sweat, a wave of concern flowed through the hyena. Was this a stressful task for her? She should have let Krysí do it if it was getting to be too much.

Red steam coming back once more, the underwater sea otter dug the talons back into the mineral deposit for the third time. But, the early adult swore he could smell smoke as everything kept going. Although the young soldier brushed such off. Of course there was smoke, a machine was giving off steam. He was overreacting.

Fourth press of the machine taking shape, the hyena whiffed up a sniff. Why was the smoke only getting worse, what was going on? Was the machine broken, or something? Pixiu soon saying she only needed to smelt it one last time and to hang tight, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment.

But, as the fifth and final press of the smelter took place, flames burst out everywhere within the secluded factory. Hearing the sound of laugher off in the distance as Huxian's entire outfit burst into flames, the early adult could feel a bucket of rage fall over him. He knew that laugh; he knew that sinister guffaw anywhere. Huxian looking ready to burn away as the cackles continued, a weak shout broke from their throat.

"Go find the cooling system!" Huxian shouted, voice weak. "Now! And turn off the pipes before they leak out their toxic gasses!"

Entire room bursting into flames as the seconds unraveled, the early adult dashed off towards the pipes. Right, the pipes, he had to close the valves before it was too late. Sprinting towards the gas filled pipes, the young soldier attempted with all his might to shut them, but such was met with immediate failure.

Pipes soon bursting into flames, gasses ready to let it looses, the laugher only grew louder. Room only getting hotter, the laughter only had begun to get worse. The cooling system, was it going to cease to function now? The pipes, they were on fire, burning, crispy; toasted. Abyss gazelle soon poofing towards him, they soon readied to rub the salt upon the flesh wound.

"Give up!" Izzet shouted, laughing. "You're going to burn in this room just like everything else!"

"He hopes he likes the abyss!" Kelebek shouted. "You are giving the factory to it as a present!"

Tuning the abyss gazelles out, an idea had come into the hyena's mind. Krysí's sea rats. The fire, surely, they contained enough water to be able to put the fire out. Right, that was it. That was the answer. He could not remain silent any longer. His words, he had to use them right here, right now.

"Krysí!" Siorc shouted at the top of his lungs. "Summon your water rats, now and tell them to put out the fire!"

"Right!" Krysí said, voice shaking. "Sea rats, hear me!"

Army of sea rats soon combining into one, the gigantic rodent of pure water marched onward. Flames going out one after another, the room had returned to normal temperature slowly, but surely. Fire biting the dust, the water rat dissipated back into a puddle. But, such action was met with immediate rage from the aggressors.

Or so she thought.

"Rat, you'll pay!" Izzet shouted at the top of their lungs. As they said such, they snapped their fingers.

"Ahh!!! The fire is spreading, meow!!" Ryś screamed in a frantic tone. "We have to put it out!!"

Otters slinking onto the scene, Huxian brushed off the bed of flame engulfing him, Pixiu raising her cross upward and chanting her prayers to the Geo Archon, a holy light bathed her weapon of religious symbol. Bringing down the light of judgement, the flames had been swallowed up by the force that was with her.

"This isn't over yet!" Kelebek shouted. "They will get their revenge even worse next time!" As one said such, one dropped oneself in the portal alongside Izzet.

Chaos soon dying down, the early adult puffed a sigh of relief, but such was short lived. Huxian shouting he smelled gas, the soldier dashed off towards the pipe. The valves he needed to close them this instant, or toxic gas particles would get in the air. Closing every single pipe he could find, the underground world was saved, thanks to the power team of five. Coming across the cooling system, water soon filled the room.

"Monique, crush the mineral deposit before this entire place is underwater!" Huxian shouted. He then hesitated for a moment. "Wait, why did I call you Monique? You name isn't Monique, and mine isn't Zack." But, he soon regained focus. "The water level is about to raise to the top, smelt it quickly!"

Pixiu hurrying the process, the mineral deposit quickly, but surely had been pressed in the right places five times. Strangely shaped rock that looked like a key smashed into one singular usable piece, the finished product had soon been dropped into Krysí's hands. But, before a celebration could begun, waves crashed the room.

"Everyone, run!" Pixiu shouted.

Group of five dashing out of the submerged factory, the early adult kept his attention towards the water for a moment. He could not help but feel something was wrong with it. The liquid, had it been tinted black? But, the early adult threw such thoughts away. There was no time to think, he had to run. Soon returning to the reception desk room within the Fortress, a strange revelation had released itself from 'Zack's' mouth.

"Great, those people summoned black sea water," Huxian complained. "Something else the duke is going to make us clean up."

Taking the lift back to the surface world, the soldier's heart felt heavy. Black sea water, what was that? He could not help but feel if that were to get loose anywhere, not just Fontaine, but every region in Teyvat and beyond would be in trouble. Atmosphere only getting heavier for minutes on end, one final nail in the door brought down the heaviest forecast of doom of them all.

"We've finished all the jobs Her Majesty requested of us," Krysí said, voice shaking. "I'm sorry Siorc, but could you take out your map? It's time to go back to Snezhnaya."

Doing as requested, the early adult opened up the map into orb form. Pressing the teleport button near the military barracks, not a single word had been exchanged between anyone. Soon reaching the steel walled room, the young soldier attempted to step out of the door, but prevention measures presented their barricade.

"No, no, we'll deliver everything to Her Majesty!" Ryś exclaimed, blocking the entrance. "That's our job, meow."

"So, please hand us the satchel," Krysí said, hand extended out. "Goodbye, for now. Please take care of yourself."

Handing the bag off to Krysí, the party of two soon left the area. Everything growing silent, the soldier walked around in a circle. Would the two of them be alright? The day prior, they said they did not have enough meka gears. Would violent repercussions come their way? He needed to go to the palace before it was too late.

But, such movement never came. Knowing the two of them would only become cross with him if he were to run to the palace, the soldier threw such thought away. Surely, Her Majesty would be merciful towards them. She had to have understood the chaos that broke loose around the nation over the past few days.

Wave of tiredness immediately overtaking him, the early adult removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But as the land of tormented dreams were about to claim him for the evening, one final thought wrapped vines around the hyena.

Fontaine was in danger.

Chapter 13: Two Trick Hyena: Make all the Fonta Disappear.

Chapter Text

"Maybe I am overthinking, but
Your Majesty, just what are you planning?

Cannot help but feel she wants something.
Ah, my time in that
Retched magic troupe is resuming.
Even though last time it went terribly.
Everything broke, and
Ruptured, why would they want me in the troupe

Again? I do not know,
Something is fishy.

Ah, honestly I am overthinking.

Maybe this will only be for
A day, and I will be removed let's
Get this over with.
If I have to make a 'hyena appear in front of the audience' I will
Curdle a shriek.
I am not some toy to play with,
'And we'll make a hyena appear right in front of the audience.' Ridiculous.
No way will I do that again, but I know if I
Say no, my life is over.

Ah well, I'll just get it over with.
So another day in this troupe,
Something is fishy.
It's getting pretty
Shaky in Fontaine, lately.
The robots are going rogue,
And the black sea water is afoot,
Nothing is making sense.
The abyssal gazelles,

How could they be doing
All this? What do they
Stand to gain? Turning

Robots against the nation,
Evaporating people in the future with black
Sea water.
Taking Fontaine
And bringing it down to the abyss,
Really, why are they doing all
This? I don't understand anything, really.
Everything is breaking,
Destroying itself.

All of this is just the beginning,
No matter what I
Do, those two

Interrupt everything.

Her Majesty, does she know
About this? Probably not, I
Very much doubt it.
Even if she knew, she'd have taken care of it. In

Any case, great, another day of being a toy awaits me. I am

Very tired of this
Even the first time, it was humiliating. But,
Right, stop complaining.
Yes, stop complaining.

Be diligent, do
As I am told.
Diligence is key.

For now, I am a magic assistant.
Even if I despise this, and
Even if I am just today,
Let's just get this over with.
It'll be over before I know it.
No matter what, I have to do my duties, or Her Majesty will kill me,
Guaranteed.

And this will
Be over before I know it.
Obviously, I am not a permanent member. The real assistant will
Unleash her wrath upon me.
This is her

Troupe, not mine.
However, it is what
It is. For now, Magic Assistant
Siorc, reporting for duty."

Four days had passed since the hyena, rat and bobcat chimera collected Meka Gears around Fontaine for Her Majesty. Nothing of especial happenstance had occurred. Diplomatic affairs in Liyue overtaking the ninety-six hours, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

The sound of bitter wind about like a dragon that had not incorporated itself within humanity. Howls only got louder as the minutes stormed onward, the wind continued to pick up speed as if it had reached its ultimate form. As the month long blizzard had reached its earliest stages, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in unison.

The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Hearing the wind slam against the window, the hyena added his own groan to the mix. The snowstorm has only just begun. Knowing if, he did not move, he would suffer dangerous freezing, the soldier rose from the uncomfortable bed. The time had come for the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the soldier placed his uniform over his layered shirts, the hyena could not help but wonder. The black sea water that was summoned, was it about to put all of Fontaine in danger? He knew that, if it was not cleaned up, something terrible would happen, guaranteed. But, the early adult threw such thoughts out the barricaded window. He was overthinking it. He needed to focus on work.

Returning his attention to the workday at hand, the young soldier clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching sunflowers in his hair and ears, the early adult headed towards the barricaded window. Snow flurrying about furiously, the chimera let out a sigh. He had a long month ahead of him, for sure. Pulling himself away from the paned glass, the hyena turned off towards the opposite direction. Such weather should not concern him. He will not be working in the frozen northern land at any given point.

Slipping his heelless shoes over his currently human feet, the thoughts soon flew back in as the early adult bit into his flavorless rations. The black sea water, where could it have possibly come from? He did not know, but if he had to deal with it personally, he would need to proceed with utmost caution.

Buttons all crooked, the early adult placed the fasteners into the correct holes. Everything in order, and glasses adjusted, the hyena had finished the morning routine of dressing the body. Any minute now, and the agent would arrive to relay his orders of anything. What awaited him today? He supposed he was about to find out.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots marched onward with a fervor, the early adult turned his attention to the door. Time had run out; the hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "Your duties as a magic assistant with our subordinates will be resuming." A bag shook from behind him as he said such. "Make sure you take your roll seriously, soldier."

The hyena could feel a twinge of rage build inside him as his orders were tossed his away. Jumping four steps back as the word magic assistant bounced off his eardrums, the early bellowed a growl. He was going to be a magic assistant again? Absolutely disgusting. Why couldn't such order have gone to someone else?

The early adult let out another growl as his orders continued to echo in his mind. He's going to be used as a means of entertainment once again? Will he have to make a hyena appear in front of the audience? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. They could make a prop instead of using him.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out once again. "What is your problem? Get over it, and get in gear"! There was an irritated tone in his voice. He needed to throw away every single emotion and focus on his duties.

The chimera let out a yelp. Right, he's not allowed to have an opinion on his duties. He has to accept them, without question. Anger was a forbidden emotion in the wake of his orders. Throwing such feelings away, the early adult turned towards the Agent. He had to get over it. The choice was not his.

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

"Good, we're going soldier," the Agent responded. Bag soon slammed onto his back, the chimera's wrist had soon been gripped into a firm grasp. Gripping prison tight enough to leave a deep bruise, the early adult closed his eyes as the escort to Fontaine began.

Let the exploitation begin.

***

"And, just like that cuz is outta town.

Bringing his all to those bounties.
I'm hearing some wild things, like don't
Glug on that Fonta! It's

Been laced, or somethin'.
Ah, that stuff is full of
Dingy sugar, anyway.

Birds like me don't need that low
Acclaimed garbage.
The fish steak's where it's at, bro!
Coming from some expert,
Here's what's been happenin'. Seen people

Opening up their bottles of
Fonta and disappearing! Did

Someone put a certain kind of
Ocean water in the bottles? What a
Disaster, if I do say so myself!
A normal human from Fontaine should not drink Fonta right now.

I'd do somethin' but, like, bro
Should I?

Probably, but addiction is strong,
Like. Takin' it off the shelves,
And banning it, won't do nothin'.
Gathering them up and
Unleashing a ban,
It'll just lead to some underground distribution ring.
Now, that's a one for the ages.
Guzzling down on the forbidden fruit, sorry

Forbidden soda. I am
Oblivious to who might've laced this stuff.
Nope, ain't got no clue.
Though, the Spina di Rosula investigating.
And, I Lonan, have heard everything.
I have the ears of a hawk, after all.
Now, where could this bad batch have come from?
Elynas, maybe?

Bro, who would wanna poison the Fonta? Someone want
Revenge, or somethin'?
Or somethin', maybe.

Well, no like I can do anything.
Here I am in this
Accursed underground city, Moraless,
Taking it a day at a time.

However, soon, I'll be
Outta here!
With my girlfriend,

Receiving the rich lads treatment.
Ah, Fonta, Smonta, gotta get packin.
Don't worry about this
I'm sure the bad batch of Fonta will be
Cleansed. Removed,
And taking care of. It ain't my,
Lonan's problem. Nope. I gotta date with destiny."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the soldier could feel droplets slap down on his head one after another. Rain bathing him deep, the early adult let out a sigh. Was there a trial occurring in the Opera Epiclese again? But, such thoughts were interrupted as he was dragged down the mountain.

Boat summoned with some invisible button, the early adult had been placed within the wooden vessel. Firmly seated, the soldier stared off into space as the vehicle of human manpower cruised forward. The trial, would it come to an end soon? If the downpour were to continue, he would be soaked to the bone in no time.

Vessel almost ready to be docked, the hyena prepared himself for the soaking of a lifetime. How lucky the Agent was to have a hood and mask to keep him dry. But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. There was no time to think about such nonsense. Agent soon gripping his wrist once more, the young soldier was dragged towards the stairwell.

Agent reminding him for what felt like the thousandth time he was not allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine whatsoever, the early adult held back the urge to bite the Agent's gloves off. How many times was he going to hear this? He knew already. He needed to stop reminding him. Tell him something he doesn't know.

Such wish came true in a matter of moments. Agent soon informing him he will be receiving further orders from his subordinate, the hyena rolled his eyes to the wet sky. What kind of orders would await him this time? Transform into a hyena? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense.

Left to his own devices, the early adult ascended the staircase. Taking the glass lift, as well, the soldier walked towards the Aquabus station. Torrential downpour mingling with the water in the corner, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera as he pressed the button to call the vehicle. Was a flood coming? He needed to heed with caution, if such were the case.

Absolutely no one around as the Aquabus came forward, the soldier could not help but wonder. Had everyone in Fontaine been in the courtroom right now? Trials were the biggest source of entertainment, indeed. Silence looping on repeat, the early adult kept his focus forward.

Melusine tour guide telling him to watch his step, it's slippery, the soldier proceeded with caution as he placed himself on the aquabus. Not a single other person getting on, the automatic vessel cruised forward. Sea citizen apologizing for the rain, there's a court case going on currently, the snapped his fingers. He knew such was the case.

As the vehicle of automatic movement passed by the Poisson Tunnel, a thought that had gotten tucked away wormed its way back into the chimera's partially human mind. Gazing at the ocean below, the thought popped off like a firework. The black sea water, had it already entered the rest of Fontaine's lakes and rivers?

Boat cruising forward, the soldier kept his attention on the waters below. The black sea water, what would happen if it were to mix itself with the rest of Fontaine's rivers and oceans? Surely, there had to have been some sort of way to cleanse such dangerous liquid.

But, as the hyena's thoughts buzzed about, the Melusine tour guide soon brought him back to reality. Told they had arrived at the Court of Fontaine, the soldier let out a yelp. They had reached the capital city already? How did they get there so fast? Removing himself from the vessel, the soldier stepped foot into the area.

Knowing he had to look for the magician, the early adult had begun walking. Rain coming down in sheets among blankets, the hyena let out a sigh. Why hadn't the Agent gave him an umbrella? None placed within his satchel, the soldier had begun walking upon the northern path.

Droplets hitting his lenses as the young soldier kept moving forward, the world in front of him had been obscured into a layer of fog. Wiping his glasses dry, the chimera kept walking. City streets upon the northeastern side full of rich people with fancy umbrellas, jealously baked itself into a pie. How lucky people were, to have head coverings.

Lenses fogged up within a matter of moments, the world around the soldier had become an invisible mess. Body hitting building after building and wall after wall, multiple shop owners demanded the soldier watch where he was going. Lenses wiped once more, the early adult kept walking.

Rain only getting stronger as he walked past the blacksmith, the early adult attempted to stand under the young woman's umbrella, but such had been a failure of every single proportion. Immediately hauled out from underneath, the soldier kept moving.

World around him foggy blobs of nothing, the early adult ascended a staircase nearby in an accidental manner. Head smacking into multiple doors, the soldier gritted his teeth. Why was he so klutzy all of a sudden? Absolutely ridiculous. He needed to go find the magician right now.

But, such remained to be a failure. World of fog devouring him once more, the early adult's heelless shoes turns back towards the western pathway. Dropping down a large ramping pathway, the hyena wiped his lenses once more. Finding himself within the entrance to Fleuve Cendre, the chimera exited the area. Why was he in this room? There was no way the magician was here.

Head slamming face first into multiple boxes as he returned to the surface world, the early adult swore he could hear people whispering nasty remarks about him being some sort of beggar, the hyena held back the urge to scream. He looked like he was going around the streets, begging for food? What a horrible conclusion to jump to.

Continuing to wander as the world only got less visible, the early adult swore he could hear someone talk about that a good newspaper should be the mountain of truth. Hearing such, the early adult blinked. Just how far away had he gotten from the southern streets? He needed to turn back around right now.

Attempting to reverse back towards the way he came, the soldier kept walking. But, such movement towards the correct path kept remaining on failure mode. Face slammed into everything and anything the hyena let out the quietest of shouts. Astigmatisms were the worst enemy to rainstorms.

Feeling himself bump up against a warm body, the early adult rubbed his lenses against his jacket once more. But, as the world of visibility returned to him, a face he did not wish to see appeared in his damaged sight. Earl standing in the streets looking ready to say something stupid, the hyena attempted to turn around. Just what he needed right now, another annoyance.

Seeing Siorc bumping into things, Earl could feel his heart grow warmer. He looked so cute stumbling around like that. Had he gotten himself lost because he was unable to see without his glasses? He needed to help his future husband get to where he was heading right away.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Can't see through all this rain? Let me help you get around!"

The early adult let out a deep, exasperated sigh. When will the pesky thorn in his side get the picture? He was never going to be interested him in any sort of romantic way. Did he think assisting him would make him change his mind? No way, not in any lifetime. He can get around just fine. Wiping his glasses for what felt like the tenth time, the hyena's shoulders grew cold.

"I am fine, sir," the hyena responded, walking away. "I do not need your help. I will find the magician on my own."

As the soldier kept walking away, an immediate realization had hit the hyena from the backside. Did he just say who he was looking for? He had made a huge mistake. Earl buzzing around him like an insect, the early adult held back the urge to groan. He had done it now. The pesky thorn in his side was definitely not going to go away.

Hearing Siorc mention a magician, Earl's eyes sparkled like the night sky. Was he looking for -----? He knew exactly where he was. He could lend him a hand and show him where he was like any good wife would. Turning his head, he readied to melt the ice again.

"You're looking for -----? He's by the fountain!" Earl exclaimed, grabbing his hand. "I'll take you to him!"

Earl clamping down on his palm moving him forward, the early adult waved the white flag upon the battlefield. There was no way he could escape now. He knew that, if he attempted to let go, the pesky penguin thorn in his side would have something to say about it. Such outcome of him speaking more should be avoided, at all costs.

Walking past the restaurant, the hyena blinked. Had he been walking around in circles the entire time? But, the chimera shook his head. He had to have been imagining it, for sure. There was absolutely no way he had done so. Fountain getting closer, the early adult took a long deep breath.

Escorted down the stairs, the soldier swore the rain had begun to part ways with the clouds. The court case, had it already come to an end? He supposed anything was possible. Magician and his assistant performing tricks by the strange orb standing above the fountain, eyes were soon on him as their magic show came to an end.

"Oho, my second assistant has finally arrived!" the magician exclaimed.

Hearing the magician say the word finally, the hyena's knees buckled. Had he been late? He needed to apologize immediately, if such were the case. Bowing his head, the early adult placed his hands into a apologetic stance. But, a surprising set of words came from another person's voice.

"You're not late," the magician's assistant said, voice monotone. But, she was soon interrupted by a grating voice.

"Are you three performing a show tonight?" Earl asked, awestruck.

"We'll be performing at the Opera Epiclese two days from now," the magician responded.

"I'll bring my whole family!" Earl shouted, flaring his nostrils. "I'm magic assistant Siorc's biggest fan!"

Magician tooting his own horn saying he, the greatest magician will make the show an even bigger success than the last one, the hyena let out a groan. Why did this man always feel the need to toot his own ego? He needed to bite into a humble pie and stop tooting his on horn loud enough for everyone to hear.

Earl soon exiting the area, an array of instructions had come the soldier's way. Magician soon informing him they would be heading out to the beach to do some practice sessions, the hyena rolled his eyes to the sky. Was he going to have to practice making his hyena tail appear in timed intervals again? How fantastic. What a thrilling trick. He was dying to get it done. But, the early adult threw the sarcasm away as the cat girl assistant had begun to walk off.

"I'll be going to the cafe," the cat girl assistant said, heels turned, but a voice called after her.

"-------, wait! You need to cut down on your sweets before showtime!" the magician screamed.

Magician's assistant saying she would maintain her usual ratio to stay functioning, the young soldier could not help but wonder. Was the cat girl magic assistant a robot or android? The early adult supposed such could have been the case. He had heard reports of there being robotic puppets who looked like people.

Cat girl turning her head back for a moment giving the hyena a glare, the hyena could not help but wonder. Why did this young woman despise him so much? But, the early adult kept such thought inside. Maybe she just didn't like being around people she did not know. He supposed he understood such. Strangers were a layer of danger that people needed to be cautious around.

Taken back to the Aquabus, the downpour had soon reduced itself to nothing. Magician sitting on the opposite side of him shuffling up card decks and giving them to a cat creature inside his hat, the hyena gazed at the man, for a moment. What was a magician like him doing as a member of the Fatui still? Surely, he had far better things to do than align himself with a villainous organization.

Reaching the beach after about half an hour, the magician soon looked the hyena straight in the eyes as if locked onto him. Was he about to give him his orders to time his hyena transformations? It was time for the most annoying practice session the world has ever seen.

"Before we practice, I suppose I should tell you the truth about your mission," the magician said, eyes still locked on. "Father has informed us strange statues have appeared around Fontaine with missing pieces, and she wants someone to fix them." But, he then shook his head. "As much as I'd like for that to be the only thing, there's more." There was a serious tone in his voice. "It would seem an entire circulation of Fonta has been laced with sinthe, or poisoned." He then wagged his finger, tsking away. "We'll be making that bad batch disappear. So, you'll be helping me get rid of them from underneath a table. Follow my beat."

The early adult's heart skipped five beats upon hearing such. An entire batch of Fonta had been laced and poisoned? Who would do such a horrible thing? How incredibly awful for someone to do such a thing. Wasn't Fonta one of the most popular drinks in the nation? Whoever would do such a thing was a twisted individual, for sure.

Magician soon making a table appear out of nowhere, an array of instructions had come the soldier's way. Told he would need to grab the Fonta through a magic hat above a compartment through a hole in the table, the early adult lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. What about any of this was magical? This was just the art of placing something somewhere else.

Empty Fonta bottles in the man's hand twirling around until being hidden inside the hat compartment, the soldier reached through the top of the table. But, such had been called out immediately. Magician telling him to not make it so obvious, and to keep his hands under the table, the chimera sighed. What did any of this matter for? There was nothing magical about this.

Displacement sessions going on for awhile, the soldier shook his head. Couldn't they just have told people directly that something was wrong with the Fonta and to recall them from store shelves? What was the point of going to such ridiculous lengths to get rid of it?

Soon told to get out from underneath the table, the next order of practice business was up and running. Magician stating he would be practicing a swap with a meka, the early adult let out a sigh. Another swap trick? Was he going to have to crawl through a tunnel underground? What did any of this have to do with making Fonta disappear?

So called magic boxes placed upon the sand, a clockwork meka soon walked inside the self proclaimed magic swapper. Knowing he had to go into the other one, the early adult placed himself in the opposite one. Magician on the outside saying he'll be counting down from fifteen, the soldier prepared himself.

Countdown beginning almost right away, the soldier crawled trough the tunnel as fast as he possibly could. Meka moving through the sand pits even faster than he could, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. Did the robot already make it to the other side? Technology was incredible.

Magician soon shouting one, the early adult broke the doors open. Told he had done good work, but in the real thing, they'll be looking for Fonta and getting rid of it while performing the swap, the early adult held back another eyeroll. Why couldn't they just skip all these theatrics? There was definitely no need for any of this.

Multiple other tricks like a guessing the card being retaught, sleight of hand and misdirection, the early adult could feel the magic of illusions wear off once more. What did anyone fine entertaining about any of this? All of this was a lie before everyone's eyes. Why make a career out of tricking people? But, his thoughts were soon interrupted by a gross order.

Soon given his hat to make mist appear so he could make his hyena tail appear after a countdown, the early adult let out a grunt. There it was, the most annoying order of them all. He wished he could make such trick disappear. He was not some toy for the audience to gawk at whatsoever. But, he knew he had no choice in the matter. He had to follow orders no matter what.

Placing the hat upon his head, the weak hydro Delusion soon did its honors. Blanket of mist covering him up, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Hyena tail appearing behind him as the countdown ended, a celebratory clap had come the chimera's way. Hearing such, the soldier rolled his eyes. What was so impressive about his biological difference?

Told to once again make it disappear after he counts down, the soldier prepared himself. It was time to get this ridiculous practice session over with once and for all. Mist soon engulfing him once more, the hyena listened carefully as the numbers slowly, but surely, got closer to the final one.

Knowing he had to wait until the countdown reached one to make it disappear, the soldier remained patient. Counter soon reaching two, the early adult closed his eyes. Hyena tail retracting as the mist vanished, another round of gloved claps had come his way.

"Great work! As expected from one of Her Majesty's esteemed favorites!" the magician exclaimed, clapping. He then reached through his back pocket, uniform plopped into assistant's hands, he soon continued. "There should be a list of locations where the statues are in the back pocket." He then handed off a bag of parts. "Meet me at the Research Institute this evening. But, be careful. Father told me some will be quite feisty when put back together!"

Card soon tossed his way with the picture of a cat creature on the back as the magician left the area, the early adult removed the sheet of paper tucked beneath the back pocket of his magician assistant uniform. Seeing Elynas, Merusea Village, the Belleau Region and a location he had been unfamiliar with entitled the Morte Region, the early adult pocketed his instructions and magician assistant uniform for the time being. It was time to get to some statue fixing.

Placing the bag filled with statue pieces over his shoulder, the hyena turned his heelless shoes towards the western pathway. He supposed it was best to start with Elynas above all else. Dashing through the beach as fast as his currently human legs would take him, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera as the beach grew further away.

As the chimera kept moving towards the mountains, the soldier could not help but wonder. What kind of statues would await him on the other side? He supposed he was about to find out. Hopping across the waterbeds as he continued moving along, the soldier steeled himself.

Climbing up the short mountain besides the beach, and dashing past the Aquabus railing system, the early adult kept his eyes open. As the mountains grew closer, the soldier could not help but continue to wonder. How did so many unfinished statues find themselves around Fontaine? Something was not right here, under any circ*mstances.

Reaching the next hill, the early adult had begun the long ascension upward. Knowing that, at any given moment, he would come across a stone being, the hyena braced himself. What was he about to come across, a statue of a person? Whatever he was about to see, he needed to be ready for anything.

Ascending to the top after about twenty minutes of climbing, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight presented before him. Statue of a dragon with more than half of the pieces missing, the hyena tilted his head. How did something like this get up in the mountains? How peculiar.

Observing the statue, for a moment, the early adult blinked. Was its entire backside missing? He supposed he would have to reconstruct that, for the time being. Opening up the satchel, a paper with instructions entitled, Rebuild of Dragon 1.0, You Are (Not) Ready, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Who in the world wrote these instructions, a light novel author? Absolutely ridiculous.

Instructions informing him to placed colored slates in a purple, blue, purple, blue, pattern the early adult removed a purple piece from the bag. Placing it within the hole, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. What was the point of doing the rebuild in a specific pattern. What was he, making a robot he'd have to pilot to save the world from the first impact?

Slapping down the next pieces in the suggested color order, the hyena swore he could see something glow as he continued. Seeing such, the early adult flinched. What was that just now? Was the dragon already releasing itself from its stone prison? He needed to hurry and put it back together.

Final slot placed into the back of the statue, a blinding white light soon engulfed the area. Stone prison removing itself from around the statue, runes in a language the hyena could not read appeared all along the dragon's body. Spotting a glowing light inside his satchel as the serpentine creature looked ready to hop away, the early adult's hands shuffled through his satchel.

Finding a peculiar book with a gear on the front cover, the hyena tilted his head. When had this gotten in his satchel? Faint light still protruding through it, the chimera flipped the cover back. Runes on the first page with a translation printed in Snezhnayan, the early adult read the words carefully.

Runes translated beneath stating, the truth about Fontaine will soon be clear, the early adult closed the tome. What truth about Fontaine? How did a message like this appear inside a statue? He could not help but feel something had been amiss about this. Did someone place the runes on it deliberately?

Hearing a loud splash off in the distance, the early adult jumped four steps back. Did the dragon just dive underwater somewhere? If it had gone off to the Elton Trench, the underwater penguin duo would give him an earful later, for sure. But, he knew he had to move along and keep going, for the time being.

Knowing he had to head for Merusea Village, the soldier descended the mountains. Heading upon the northern path, a group of statues soon awaited him. Six dragons encased in their stones prisons, the early adult prepared himself. It was time to get to get to work.

Instructions glowing, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. Paper now reading he had to place the missing pieces in a red, yellow, red, yellow formation, the soldier blinked. What was this, a building block game? But, the hyena threw such comments away. Placing the slabs in their rightful patterned places, another message of runes soon appeared.

Translated runes soon reading out, every single citizen in Fontaine was born from sin, the soldier tilted his head. What in the world did that mean? Everyone in Fontaine was a sinner? Who decided that? Whoever left this message was wrong, for sure. Readying himself for the next statue, the soldier removed the shards.

Putting the next statue back together as the first dragon left, another message printed itself into the metallic tome. Reading it for a moment as the next serpentine monster went away, the early adult could feel a wave of fear nibbling on his ear. Rune translation spitting out, the former Hydro Archon committed the greatest sin, the early adult slammed the tome shut. What was with these statues and talking about wrongdoings and sin? How terrifying.

Third and fourth statues put back together, even stranger translated runes awaited the soldier. The seven dragon sovereigns? Their powers were stolen from them? Feeling a chill go down his spine as he slammed the book shut, the hyena could feel his cheeks heat up. What did he just read?

Knowing he could not dwell for too long on such subject, Siorc reconstructed the final two dragon statues. But, what awaited him as they went away was even far more terrifying than the last. Runes reading out, the primordial seawater can dissolve any Fontainan in an instant, the early adult could feel his heart break. There was water that could make a person born from Fontaine dissolve?

Every single statue in the area taken care of, the soldier had begun to head further north. It was time to head off to Merusea Village then leave the area. But, as he headed off towards the boiling waters, another unfinished statue awaited him. Knowing he had to put it back together before continuing, the next reconstruction began.

Dragon looking ready to attack him as it came back to life, the soldier readied to defend himself. But, such battle never came. Monster dissolving into a puddle as the heat ate it alive, the next set of runes appeared in the mechanical tome. Bending the cover back, the hyena gulped at the words in front of him.

Runes translating to, the prophecy shall be fulfilled and all of Fontaine's people shall dissolve into water, fear hugged the hyena from behind. There was a prophecy that stated all of Fotaine's people would dissolve into water? What did that even mean? Was there about to be yet another crisis in the Nation of Justice? But, the early adult shook his head. There was no way that could happen. This was bogus.

Heading north towards the entrance towards the village, two faces he did not wish to see popped their heads out of the water. Eyes soon on him as he readied to reach for his diving equipment, the early adult prepared for statements of the obvious to break his eardrums. What did the prankster sea lions have to say this time?

Hearing the sea lion duo panting up a storm as he put on his diving equipment, the early adult titled his head. Why did they sound so winded for? Were they pulling pranks on the Melusines in the village? He would not give them any pity if they were tired out from doing so, if such were the case. Eyes soon on him, their grating voices soon cut through his inhuman inner ears.

"What's with all the kooky stuff happening around here lately?" Brume asked, panting. He then turned towards his next prank victim. "Bro, there's some freaky statues down here!"

"Dude, help us out!" Eclater shouted. "There's dragons attacking."

Knowing he had no choice but to go down to the underwater village, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment. Mind synced up with his diving suit, the soldier followed the sea lion duo from behind. Melusines all locked inside their houses as the brothers escorted him to the statue, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. Were the main citizens of the underwater village scared? He needed to take care of the problem right away, if such were the case.

Dragon statue sitting inside a pink seashell, the early adult halted his automatic thrust forward. Placing the pieces back into the stone serpentine creature's wings, the soldier could feel a deep aura of darkness radiate throughout the area as the stone had begun to crack away.

Dragon letting out a roar, swinging its tail with a fury, the chimera's eyes opened wide. Was this monster about to get on the offensive? Creature blasting out a beamed attack from its mouth, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. It was already attacking, he needed to take care of the problem now before houses were to be fried.

Brume and Eclater taking out scythes, icy and water attacks soon combined with their weapons. Thrusting down their elements upon the enemy, the dragon let out a roar as it slapped its tails against the sea lion brother's faces. Scar tissue added to the equation, a scream had been returned in kind.

"Dude, not cool!" Eclater shouted at the dragon. "My chin is sensitive!"

Brume bringing on twice the amount of water power with very little damage brought to the table, the soldier pressed a button on his left glove. Aquatic blade now at his side, the hyena joined the battle. Aiming for the tail as the seconds went on, everything took turns rolling the dice.

Invisible die rolling a four as Eclater returned to the battle, the dragon had become a popsicle after eight attempts. Knowing such was perfect opportunity to bring the creature down to its reptilian knees, the early adult slashed the aquatic blade forward in a rapid fire notion.

Monster getting weaker by the second, the sea lion brother unleashed the final blow. Dragon looking ready to fade into nothing, runes soon flew off its body as if they were birds. Enemy soon becoming one with nature, a Melusine soon came outside of her house. Swimming towards Brume, she whispered in his ear.

"Sis, what did you just say? Say that again, please!" Brume exclaimed. The Melusine then whispered louder. "Oh, mhm, I see. You want me to tell him what? Dudette, you pulling a prank on us?"

"No, Brume, I made myself very clear," the Melusine said. "Now, tell your friend here what I told you."

"Sis, are you serious? I gotta tell him? Don't wanna!" Brume responded. But, a serious look was on her face. "Fine, fine, dudette, I'll tell him!" He then turned towards his future big prank victim. "Bro, my sister just said statues appeared in Annapausis." But, Eclater soon interrupted.

"Dude, whaaat, you gotta be joshing us!" Eclater exclaimed. But, the look on his sis's face said all. "Okay, she ain't joshing us." He then turned towards the left. "Bro, you gotta head to Annapausis. That kingdom is gonna be in shambles if it gets visitors!"

Hearing the smartest thing that had ever come out of Eclater's mouth, the early adult bowed a thank you. Knowing he had to hurry and go to the underwater kingdom before it was too late, the soldier had the diving suit thrust him back up towards the surface. Dashing off towards the edges of Elynas, the hyena closed his eyes as the diving suit dropped him downward.

As the early adult had the diving suit thrust him towards the northwestern path, the soldier could feel an intense amount of pressure radiate throughout the area. Feeling such as the entrance towards Annapausis drew closer, the soldier broke out into a sweat. What was this intense feeling of dread?

Pushing himself through the entranceway, the sense of dread only continued to worsen as the seconds droned onward. Zinn and Peltro gazed at the stone creature missing many parts. Look of fatigue on both their faces, they soon turned towards the early adult.

"Look who decided to hop on in, ribbit!" Zinn exclaimed. "Those penguins threw this statue in here!"

"More like they forced this statute on us and told us, 'it's your problem, toxic freaks, you deal with it!' The nerve of them," Peltro added. "Anyhow, guess it really is our problem now. It's too heavy to give it back to them."

The soldier could hardly believe what he just heard. Vidame and Domini threw the dragon statue into Annapausis? How dare they do something like that just because they despised them. What an extremely low angle to bring themselves down to. He knew that, if someone did something like that to them, they would immediately get on the violent offensive.

Knowing he had to take care of the problem right away, the soldier removed the pieces to complete the statue. Only six spots to fill in, the early adult slapped them in one after another. But, as the final piece was soon placed, the stone prison broke. But, what awaited the hyena was a hostile attack to end all attacks.

"It came alive, ribbit!" Zinn shouted, surprised. "How did it do that?"

"I don't know, why don't you figure it out?" Peltro snapped back.

Siblings soon arguing back and forth, the hyena rolled his eyes. Here they go again, fighting over petty things. How could these two live with eachother and not get along? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. If he were in their situation, he would have swam off to another place by now to call home, but maybe such was not feasible for the frog and alligator duo.

World going black for a few minutes, the early adult shook with a fervor. Who turned off the lights? Hearing nothing but screams for minutes on end from the frog and alligator, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Nothing visible for minutes on end, the hyena closed his eyes, for a moment.

Blinking out a of existence for a brief moment, the hyena opened his eyes once more. Peltro flipping through his tome making various faces of confusion, the early adult yanked the book out of its hands. What was it doing going through his things without asking? He couldn't read it anyway. Taking people's belongings without asking was the rudest gesture of them all. Eyes soon on him, excuses had come his way.

"Apologies. I saw something glowing in your bag, so I wanted to take a look," Peltro apologized, but Zinn soon cut in.

"I told ya not to go in there!" Zinn shouted, croaking. "It's not like ya can read th' book anyway!"

"Neither can you, so that makes two of us!" Peltro shouted back. "I thought it was about to explode!"

"Yer so dumb, it's givin' me warts!" Zinn shouted back. "It ain't gonna explode."

"What do you know, Zinn? It could have!" Peltro fired back further. "It was glowing! You saw it, too!" But, the argument soon became a cold turkey.

"Whatevs. Enougha 'dis. We're buggin' him with our fightin'," Zinn said. They then turned towards the left. "We took care of the dragon, ribbit. Wouldn't stay here if I were you right 'bout now. Our toxins gotta be foulin' up the air."

Knowing he couldn't stay a moment longer, the early adult removed himself from Annapausis. Having the diving suit thrust him back towards the Elton Trench, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Undersea penguin duo nowhere to be seen, a wave of suspicion flowed through the hyena. Why were they absent? How peculiar. Thrusting upwards towards the surface, the Belleau region awaited him.

Moving himself off the beach and heading north, the hyena could not help but ponder. Vidame and Domini, why would they throw a statue into Annapausis? What did Zinn and Peltro ever do to them? But, the early adult shook his head. Those two were a constant pile of anger. They would do anything to bring harm or cause problems to those they disliked.

Spotting the first statue near the outskirts of Poisson, the early adult tilted his head towards the sky. How did one of the stoned dragons end up here? Feeling an intense dark energy protruding through it, the chimera let out a gulp. Was another battle about to await him any second now? Removing multiple pieces from the supply bag, the early adult had begun the fixer upper.

Dragon breaking itself free from statue prison, the soldier read the translated runes it had left behind. Translated symbols reading out to say, Teyvat's sky is a big hoax and lie, the early adult's eyes twitched. Who wrote these runes? Surely, that couldn't have possibly been true. Hearing a big splash as he finished reading, the early adult walked off towards the next statue.

Second dragon not putting up any sort of fight flying away almost immediately upon gaining its second life, the soldier slammed the book shut. Whatever the runes said, he did not wish to read further. It was no use letting himself get frightened over such things.

Spotting a group of statues beside Poisson's waterfall, the early adult took a long deep breath. How did these two rocked up dragons manage to find themselves beside the roaring falls? But, he knew there was no time for thinking. He had to put them back together now, before evening were to roll in.

Final piece placed into the dragon's rocked backside, the stone cracked open like an egg. Runes throwing themselves into the mechanical tome of horrors as the creatures flew away, the early adult did not remove the book from the satchel. No more looking at the runes. He needed to keep himself focused.

Knowing it was time to head for wherever the Morte region was, the early adult attempted to leave the area. But, as he had readied to do, a loud shout bounced off and around his eardrums from down below in the fish city. Hearing such, alarm bells rung inside the chimera's mind. Had something happened down below? Deploying his wind glider, the soldier jumped down from beside the waterfall.

Entire stream of water in the area pitch black, the early adult's heart skipped five beats. What happened down here, had the black seawater escaped into Poisson? Spotting Bain, Kali, Aigre and the Demoiselle cleaning the area up, another loud whine soon quickly overtook the area.

"Sissie, sisser, this is so boring!" Aigre whined. "I wanna go out and play by the tower!"

"No, Aigre, it's cleanup time, remember?" Bain scolded. But, the whining continued.

"Meanie!" Aigre whined, voice getting higher pitched. "Kids should be allowed to go out and play Grownups should be the ones to cleanup!!"

"Bain, you're not her mother!" Kali shouted. She then turned towards Aigre. "Um, please don't go look for your pirate friends right now. You can play after we uh, clean."

Demoiselle soon turning towards him, the early adult could feel sweat pouring down his brow. Why was she looking at him with such an intense look on her face? Was he not welcome here? If he wasn't he would turn around right away and head to the Morte region, in an instant.

"Are you here because of the statue?" the Demoiselle asked.

Hearing the Demoiselle's question, the early adult gave a nod. Had there been a dragon statue down here, as well? Had it been the reason the waters in the area had gone black? If such were the case, he needed to get rid of it right now, before it was too late. He could not allow for the black seawater to expand any further.

"You are?" the Demoiselle asked. "I'd be very careful. I am not sure why, but it looks a little hostile."

Demoiselle pointing at the large boat in the corner, the early adult dashed off towards the pier. Large dragon statue looking as though it was roaring through its stone encasem*nt, the soldier placed the missing pieces upon the lizard's body. But, as the prison cracked, the creature soared towards the sea lion sisters.

Dragon dropping down a breath of fresh hostilities, Bain, Kali and Aigre had their scythes ready for action. Demoiselle taking out a large axe and swinging it, the soldier's tome released itself from his satchel on its own. Power of words acting on their own without his input, runes colluded with the weapons in the area.

Peculiar powers engulfing the triple triad of scythes then axe, the early adult slammed the floating tome shut. Monster tied up by the runes in a matter of moments, the young soldier backed four steps away. How did the book do that? What was it, some sort of magical hypnotic microphone that contained the power of words? How terrifying. Weren't actions supposed to speak louder than words?

Monster soon fading into nothing, another collection of runes adding themselves to the tome, the soldier's knees shook. What unsettling message placed itself into the book this time? He did not want to find out. Not spotting any more statutes within the fish city, the soldier dashed off towards the latter once more. Hearing Aigre whine again about not wanting to clean up, the hyena shook his head. She's going to run away again, for sure.

Heading off towards the eastern pathway near the west slope, the early adult pondered. The Morte region, could it have been on the other side of the Belleau region? He supposed walking off towards the east slopes was the safest option, for the time being. Continuing to head towards the western slopes, the soldier remained focused.

Walking through the west slopes, the early adult stared off into space, for a moment. The magician, what could he have been up to at this given moment? But, the soldier returned his focus forward. He was going around performing tricks. He did not need to concern himself with him until it was nighttime. He needed to keep moving forward.

Spotting the peculiar tower off in the corner, the hyena dashed off towards it. Seeing people from afar flying towards the large building, the chimera accelerated his sprint. Those people, could they have known where the Morte region was? He needed to make haste and ask them right away.

But, as he headed off towards the tower, an unexpected person had come flying down with a stranger he had never seen before. Spotting Lonan hopping around the tower giving it a clean, and a young woman beside him stopping, for a moment, the soldier studied the unknown person, for a moment.

Standing in the tower looking ready to clean up a fierce one had been a short, petit young woman. The young lady had Long, brown hair that went down to just near her chest pulled back into a high left swept ponytail held together with a fluffy brown scrunchie, and brown eyes to match. Pointy ears, falcon wings, freckles, and red and black square pattern shirt with light grey pants to end it off, the chimera ended his examination.

Lonan spotting him from afar, the birdman flew towards him. Seeing him flapping his way, the soldier backed six steps away. Had he stepped into this man's territory? If such were the case, he would inquire about the location of the Morte region and take his leave right away.

"Black fish steak bro! Fancy meeting you here!" Lonan greeted. "Saw some weird stuff south of here, but I ain't touchin' them. Nope." He then turned towards his beautiful lover. "Babe, introduce yourself." Babe soon landing next to him, she took the ring.

"I'm Gwendolyn," the bird woman greeted. She then put a disgusted face. "....And this..." She gagged as she forced the words out, but soon continued. "...Is my boyfriend, Lonan."

"Yo, gf, why did you just gag?" Lonan asked.

"Because we're not a..." Gwendolyn started to say, but she was soon interrupted.

"Haha, what was that, babe?" Lonan asked, speaking over her. "We're madly in love, black fish steak, bro, don't listen to her!" He then turned towards black fish steak bro. "Y'know what, I change my mind. I'mma take you over to the island where that weird thing appeared!"

Lonan being his usual aggravating flip flopping self, Gwendolyn rolled her eyes. Didn't he just say a second ago he wanted no part in the self proclaimed weird stuff down south near the island? Men were so annoying. They could never make up their mind. Why was she friends with him again? Sometimes, she did not know.

Seeing multiple looks of disgust on the person named Gwendolyn's face, a wave of suspicions flowed through the chimera. There was absolutely no way these two were dating. Lonan had to have definitely forced the bird woman to say they were in a relationship.

Reaching a small island area with strange purple formations above the water, a small hill and grassy areas beside the water, a shocking sight to behold caught the soldier's attention towards the edge of the area. Violet orb monsters from Elynas shooting Fonta everywhere, the chimera backed eight steps away. Why were the creatures shooting out soda from their bodies? What a strange sight to behold, for sure. Readying himself for battle, the early adult closed his eyes for a moment. Human hands becoming hyena claws, the chimera was ready for action. But, as he prepared to leap forward, a voice interrupted his flow.

"Babe, when did you get here?" Lonan asked, but he was soon met with her elbows. "Ow! Gf, why'd you go an do that again?"

"Do you ever hear me when I talk to you?" Gwendolyn asked in an exasperated tone. "I said I was coming, too, didn't I?" She then let out a sigh. "Don't bother giving me a stupid answer back. Not interested. Just fight the that soda monster with me and keep your mouth shut."

Hearing Gwendolyn claim she said she was coming too, the soldier scratched his ears. Did she say that? He had heard no such thing. But, the early adult shrugged. Maybe she mumbled it and he just couldn't hear it. Monster spitting out Fonta once more from within the insides of its purple spherical body, the early adult got his claws ready.

Gwendolyn and Lonan stretching their wings back and dropping down the gift of metallic feathers, the orb creature had been stunned in a matter of moments. Seeing such, the early adult dashed off to the scene. Hyena claws swiping forward for minutes on end, the monster had soon become dust upon the wind.

Second creature decimated after ten attacks combined, the enemies had all been removed from the equation. Sky soon adjusting itself to the nighttime shades, the early adult let out a scream. The sun had already gone down? He needed to head off to the research institute up north right this instant.

Speeding off back towards the capital city and dashing past the bridge near the eastern portion of Mount Esus, the soldier kept running. Cruising through the area after an hour of running, the early adult let out a scream. The research facility, he had to get there as fast as he could. Pushing through until reaching an area known as the New Research Institute, a small room with many machines caught the chimera by surprise.

"You're right on time! Just what I'd like to see," the magician said. "Go get changed in the back, and we'll let this magnificent magic show begin."

"He's fifteen minutes late," the cat girl assistant corrected, glaring at the hyena.

Moving towards the back room as the sibling duo talked about his punctuality, the hyena let out a sigh. Why was his number one assistant always looking at him with such contempt? But, he supposed he would, too, if Hase and he were in some sort of performing team together only to add on a third wheel.

Uncomfortable spandex holding him hostage in his outfit, the magic show was ready to being. Magician starting off by boosting his ego to the entire population within the research institute, the soldier held back the urge to shake his head. Should a magician truly be this quick to boast about his abilities?

Card tricks performed for a few minutes into the show, the early adult's eyes wandered for a moment. Spotting a young man amongst the crowd of many generic nobodies, the hyena rapidly shook his heads. Who did he see in the seats in the corner just now? Perhaps, just maybe, he was seeing things.

Magician soon proclaiming they had seen all these amateur tricks, and he was going to pull off something at a much greater scale, the cat girl assistant soon yanked the soldier. Telling him to get under the table now, the early adult swore he could hear her say something under her breath.

"Those amateur tricks were just a warmup! I hope you're all ready for this next one!" the magician shouted, stroking his own ego. "Hold onto your seats, for I, the Greatest Magician -----, will make all the Fonta disappear!"

Multiple bottles of Fonta glowing with a peculiar looking substance in them, the soldier swore the magician slipped the bottles through his sleeves. Stepping beside the table and dropping multiple through a compartment, the hyena grabbed the commodities of poisoned proportions.

Trick going on for minutes on end, the soldier placed everything within the deep pits of his sleeves. Arm coverings not looking fat in any way whatsoever as he kept throwing them down, the soldier rolled his eyes. What an amazing magic trick, hiding bottles of sugary drinks down his sleeves as a way to make them disappear. Truly, a thrilling experience. Rolling his eyes further, the magician's assistant dragged the chimera behind a makeshift curtain.

Magician soon announcing he'll make a hyena appear right in front of them, the soldier rushed back onto stage. Hat kicking up the misty atmosphere, the soldier closed his eyes. Human limbs soon becoming hyena ones and tail appearing behind him as the countdown reached zero, multiple eyes were on him.

Researchers giving a round of applause, the show had soon reached its end. Handing the bottles of Fonta off towards the magician words of doing good work had come his way. Informed he would have more work to do tomorrow, the duo soon left. Knowing that was his cue to find somewhere to sleep, the early adult prepared to stage his exit. But, as he stepped outside of the curtain, hands tugged on the edge of his shirt.

Turning his attention towards the tugger, the early adult observed the person in front of him. Vying for his attention had been a young jackal man almost around the exact same height as him. The young man had messy, short light brown hair that covered his right eye entirely with some spikes towards the top and stray bottom that went down to where his human ears would be if he had them. Light orange eyes glowing against his brown skin, orange researchers coat barely hiding his bushy jackal tail, and nervous disposition, the early adult ended his examination.

"Uh, um... Are you okay with being treated like that?" the researcher jackal asked, voice shaking as he took multiple pauses while speaking. "I know the Fonta was... uh, laced?" He paused for a moment. Was that what he heard? Laced. No, that can't be it. Archons, he was embarrassing himself in front of a cute boy definitely being manipulating. Deep breaths, he needed to breathe. Where was he? Right. Fonta. "...Ahem, uh. Yes, that was it. Laced." But, he paused again. Why couldn't he speak today? Get it together. Try again. "But, um, don't let them use you for entertainment like that."

Hearing the stranger's words, the early adult placed his hands out in front of him. Signing that he knew, but he cannot leave, thee soldier looked into the man's eyes. Young jackal looking away at his gaze as he had done such, the soldier broke out into a sweat. Why was he looking away? Did eye contact bother him? He supposed nothing could be done if such were the case.

Young man communicating to him in sign language with a look on his face, the jackal could feel his heart pitter patter. Oh, no, this one was cute. What should he do? Maybe he should protect him from those magicians that are exploiting him for entertainment. Right, maybe that could work. Good idea.

"Um, I'll come to your next show, and do something if they try to get exploitative, okay?" the jackal asked. He then extended my hand. "Oh, uh, right. I should introduce myself. Um, I forgot. My name is Rabiu." But his hand shook in place as he said such. Why did this man make him so nervous. "Uh, um, let's shake on it."

Giving the young jackal a handshake, the soldier left the area. Heading off towards the Hotel Deboard for the night, a room had been reserved in the hyena's name. Escorted to his temporary accommodations, the soldier removed the uncomfortable uniform. Everything else off, as well, the chimera slipped into the uncomfortable bed. But, as the world of sleep were ready to take him away, one last thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

He's not some toy to play with.

***

"Oh no, that boy with that travelling magician troupe.
He's cute. Too cute.

No, no, that can't be right. I like girls! That's right, girls! Women!
Oh no, he's so cute. I don't think I

Have ever found a girl as cute as him.
Eek. Oh, Archons. No, no, no.

I like girls, women!
So why is my heart fluttering? How

Come I want to protect this guy when I don't even know him?
Ultimate confusion. No, no, no,
That's weird, isn't it?
Everyone in the research institute is going

To look at me funny.
How about my brothers and sister? Are they going to tell me
I'm adopted again, or
Something? 'Rabiu, you're nothing like us,

I bet you're adopted!' When they
See me looking at that cute

Boy with dreamy eyes...
Aaaaaaaah, no, no, no.
Don't even think about that! Right. I'll just forget about him for now."

Upon waking up the next morning, a loud knock interrupted the soldier's slumber. Rubbing his eyes after reaching his glasses the early adult quickly changed into his uniform. Well dressed ginger Fatui with a top hat standing by his door looking ready to throw him the dice, the early adult listened through the tired sleep haze.

"Soldier, you must meet Sir ----- right now," the ginger masked Fatui said. She then stepped aside. "He is in the hallway waiting for you."

Stepping into the hotel lobby, the magician stood tall beside a table where the cat girl assistant dug into her sweets one after another. Stepping towards him, a jovial, but prideful smile appeared on the young man's face. Arms soon folded across his waist, he soon spoke.

"Look who finally decided to join us!" the magician exclaimed. "We'll be performing a magic show in Fleuve Cendre in fifteen minutes." But, disdain soon came his way.

"Why does he have to come?" the magician's assistant asked, monotone.

"-------, he's just a temporary member of our troupe," the magician whispered.

Cat girl assistant giving him a glare, the hyena knew now more than ever. This woman absolutely despises him. Wanted to churn his guts into a meat grinder, and throw him away. He supposed he did not blame her. He was intruding upon her brother's troupe. Her judgement of him was only fair.

Heading to the underground city shortly after changing, a very quick magic show had kicked into overdrive. Magician giving his usual speech full of heavy bravado, multiple moments of showing off with card tricks as a quick warmup overtook the area for minutes on end, but the real show soon took over.

Magician soon saying he and his lovely assistants would be making all the Fonta within Fleuve Cendre disappear, three magical boxes appeared in the area. Cat girl, magician and himself crawling through all the spaces pocketing and hiding all the laced soda they could locate, the show continued for a little while longer.

Grand finale of the show kicking into overdrive as the rest of the entire underground city's soda made their disappearing act, the curtains soon fell. Everyone soon leaving except for a few people, the magician gazed at the Fonta that was supposed to have disappeared.

Hearing the magician say that the Fonta was indeed laced with primordial seawater like he suspected, the early adult could feel his heart skip six beats. Primordial seawater, wasn't that type of liquid considered highly toxic to Fontaine born citizens? But, as the mumbles about kept going, an interruption kicked in.

"What?" Gwendolyn asked, confused. "What do you mean there's primordial sea water in the Fonta?" But, another voice soon talked over her.

"Magician dude, you sure about that?" Lonan asked, confidence evident in his voice. "Gwen and I drank some Fonta yesterday, and we were fine!" But, he was soon elbowed almost immediately.

"Were fine because we're birds, imbecile!" Gwendolyn exclaimed in a grumpy tone.

"Yo, gf, that's mean!" Lonan fired back. "Don't elbow me!"

Magician soon handing Siorc the next list of locations, another card with a black cat hat had been handed to the soldier. Piece stating he had to go to Poisson for the evening show, the soldier blinked. He had to perform another show tonight? The life of a performer was definitely a busy one. Reading over his instructions, a particular location spooked him.

Reading the name Mt. Esus, the soldier let out a yelp. He had to head for the mountain ranges north of the court city? There was no way he would be able to pass through there without issue. The hawk's territory, he knew he was not welcome there. Bird duo stepping towards him, Lonan soon poked his nose in where it did not belong.

"Black fish steak bro, why did you scream about Mt. Esus?" Lonan asked. "Bro, don't worry, my cousin's out of town." But, he had soon been elbowed once again.

"Lonan, don't stick your nose in where it's not wanted!" Gwendolyn scolded.

Watching as Gwendolyn elbowed Lonan again, the hyena shook his head. These two were definitely not dating. Returning his focus back to his instructions, a wave of heavy confusion flowed through him. Seeing the locations known as the Rusty Rudder and Lumidouce Harbor, the soldier tilted his head. Where in the world could the Rusty Rudder have been? He had never heard of such a place.

Exiting the hotel, the early adult prepared himself for the long trip north. Knowing there as a small, miniscule chance that the hawk and falcon chimera could have been in their territory right about now, the hyena took a long deep breath as he exited the city. Cruising through the forest, up north, the chimera would not falter.

As the soldier headed past the beach, the hyena observed the area around him, for a moment. Hawk and falcon nowhere to be seen, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. Maybe they were truly not here after all. Heading off towards the mountains everything was quiet, almost too quiet.

Coming across the first unfinished statue near the edges of the beach, the early adult had begun the restructuring. Everything placed in the correct pattern, the stone creature released itself from its encasing. Dragon hopping off towards the ocean nearby as runes removed themselves from its body, the chimera kept heading north.

Coming across two statues in the corner looking ready to break open at any given moment, the early adult had begun the stone surgery once more. Placing everything where it belonged in the color patterns constructed, the dual creatures hopped off towards the ocean as further glyphs sucked themselves into the tome for what felt like the thirtieth time in the past two days.

Moving forward towards the beginning parts of the mountains, the hyena spotted three statues towards the edge of the area. But, as he put them back together, the chimera swore he could hear one of the dragons say Fontaine belongs to the abyss. Did he really just hear that, or was he imagining it? Surely, it had to have just been his imagination. Final piece dropped into the lizards, a loud roar overtook the area.

Monsters looking ready for a fight, the hyena let out a sigh. Closing his eyes, for a moment, his human hands soon became hyena paws. Slashing forward as if his claws were his sword, the soldier let out a deep battle cry. Enemies defeated after fifty forward slashes, the early adult let out a tired huff.

Continuing onwards through the eastern mountains four more statues awaited him. Bringing them out of their stone prisons, yet another splash echoed throughout the area. Almost every single reptilian monster going for a dive, the soldier could not help but wonder. Were these dragons just trying to go back where they perceived as home? While he did not know if this was truly the case, he felt like it had to have been, at the moment.

Not spotting any further stoned dragons in the mountain ranges, the soldier took a long deep breath. Instructions informing him the Rusty Rudder in one of the southern most areas of Fontaine, the early adult prepared himself. It was time to make the long journey south.

As the early adult reversed back towards the path he came, the soldier could not help but think. Primordial seawater, what was that, exactly? He had never heard of such a thing before. Was it dangerous to other groups besides people born in Fontaine? He did not know, but he knew he would have to do something about it if it were.

As the soldier attempted to step foot back into the city, the soldier swore he could hear someone to tell him to stop. Lonan soon running up towards him, almost completely out of breath, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. What did the bird man want from him now?

"Magician bro forgot to tell you something, black fish steak bro!" Lonan exclaimed. "He needs you to go to some smelting place underwater." He then turned towards Gwendolyn. "Gwen, should we come with?" But, he had soon been elbowed once again.

"Gwendolyn, not Gwen!" Gwendolyn shouted. "And, no, we're not 'coming with.' Ugh, I thought I told you we still have to clean up the tower."

"Yo, gf, c'mon, that crib down there is dangerous," Lonan replied. "We can't leave a bro hanging." But, he had soon been pulled away.

"Didn't ask, don't care. And I'm not..." Gwendolyn started to say, but she stopped herself. "Just do your job, so you can get your Mora and get away from me."

Watching the party of two walk away awkwardly, the soldier shook his head. These two were definitely not in a relationship, and if they were in one, it was certainly not a healthy one. But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. What business was it of his to judge someone else's relationship? He needed to head back to the underground smelting area.

Reaching the edge of the Liffey Region after an hour of walking, the soldier placed his diving equipment over his short body. Suit syncing up with his mind, the hyena's body automatically thrusted forward towards the northern area of the waterbed.

Finding himself in the sea unicorn's bed after half an hour of automatic swimming, the early adult ran off towards the hidden entrance way. Dropping back downward towards the underwater world, the soldier soon found himself towards the hidden metallic room of terrors. Stepping towards the closed off room, a peculiar sight soon awaited him.

Spotting Huxian and Pixiu in the corner equipped with mops, the hyena could feel a chill drop down his spine. Had these two still been cleaning up all the black seawater that flooded in a week prior? Otter duo looking as tired as death itself, a wave of heavy concern flowed through him. These two hadn't been cleaning nonstop for an entire week, had they?

Stepping inside the possible dangerous area. The otter duo kept up with their cleaning efforts. But, as he tried to tiptoe through, eyes were soon on him. Looks of confusion as if they did not know him painting their faces, for a moment, the hyena tilted his head. Did their fatigue remove him from their memories? Lack of sleep was the enemy to all living creatures, guaranteed.

"Huh? Why did you come back?" Huxian asked. "Did the duke send you to make sure we're still cleaning, or something?" They then let out a sigh. "Monique and I are almost finished." He then paused for a moment. "Wait. Her name is not Monique, and my name is not Zack." But, he snapped himself out of it. "Now I don't remember what I had to say." But Pixiu soon cut him.

"Weren't you going to tell him the black seawater brought some friends?" Pixiu asked, but she soon doubted herself. "Was that it? Now, I don't remember either."

"No clue, Monique," 'Zack' responded. "Wait. Your name is not Monique, and my name is not Zack." But, he attempted to regain focus. "Whatever. Do what you need to do. Don't tell the duke we're not done cleaning yet."

Hearing Huxian repeat the same phrase about himself not being named Zack, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why did he always say something like that? Was he a broken record? But, he supposed it was no business of his why he was the way he was. Moving towards the cooling system, the rocky statues awaited him.

Putting the dragon back together, the creature glowed a pitch black aura, creature turning towards him, the hyena could feel a chill down his spine. Was he about to be forced into some battle he did not bargain for? He was not prepared for a fight. He was in his fat, blubbery suit. He was useless. But, his thoughts were proven wrong in a matter of moments.

"Oh, no, I'm late!" the dragon shouted like a schoolgirl. "Master is expecting me in the abyss!" Throwing itself through the door, the creature was soon gone.

Soon putting the other dragon statues back together, the other creatures soon followed the leader. Seeing such, the early adult eyebrows twitched. What was wrong with these reptilian monsters? Something was definitely off with them, for sure. No other statues in the area, the soldier prepared to stage his exit. But, as he readied to leave the area, voices drowned out the area.

"What was that all about?" Huxian asked. "Why did those dragons hop off like they were, hmm forgot what that place was called."

"Like Akademiya students?" Pixiu suggested. "I don't remember either, mind you." They then turned towards the stranger. "Thank you for helping, whoever you are."

Otter duo forgetting he ever existed, the soldier had the diving suit bring him back upwards towards the surface. Reversing back towards the pathway he came, the beach had been passed through. Going back towards the city, the soldier gazed at a paper map he found at the newspaper stand. Spotting Lumidouce Harbor all the way in the southeastern most corner, an idea tossed itself in the chimera's mind.

Seeing that the Lumidouce Harbor was not too far away from Marcotte Station, the soldier headed off towards the glass lift inside the Aquabus information station. Perhaps, just maybe, it would be easier to reach the area if he took a small shortcut. Having the glass box bring him to the third floor, the soldier soon pressed the call button for the automatic vehicle.

Reaching Marcotte Station after about half an hour, the soldier had begun heading off towards the southern path. Moving through some strange enchanted forest, the chimera held back the urge to admire the scenery. Pushing through with all his effort, another hour long walk awaited him.

Reaching the Rusty Rudder after an hour, the soldier observed the area, for a moment. Finding himself beside a boat with a canon and cave in the corner of it, the hyena could feel a wave of unease flow through him as he walked towards the cave. Was it just him, or did some heavily hostile energy coming from the area in the corner?

Stepping inside the dwelling, the early adult prepared himself. Was a battle about to break loose? If such were the case, he needed to prepare himself this time. Finding the first unfinished statue in the cave beside a bed of water, the early adult had gotten himself to work.

Dragon soon fixed, a message of terror had been translated from the runes. Runes relaying the message that the region of Fontaine was full of fakes, the soldier jumped six steps back. What did that mean? Surely, that had to have been a mistranslation, on the book's part.

Moving towards the next set of unfinished statues, the soldier had gotten to work. Dragons soon splashing into the water after they had been put back together, the early adult's legs shook as he read the next translated rune sentence. Seeing a question asking, why isn't the Hydro Archon doing anything about the prophecy, the young soldier's heart skipped more than five beats. Why were the messages saying these things? They were all wrong, for sure.

Everything done within the rusty rudder, the early adult hurried himself towards Lumidouce Harbor. But, an attack of many proportions soon awaited the soldier. Dragons bringing themselves to the offensive almost immediately upon awakening, the chimera brought out his hyena claws.

Dragons defeated after about one hundred slashes, the early adult panted up a storm. Why were these monsters so strong? He could not help but feel something had been incredibly off about them. But, perhaps, just maybe, he was overthinking it. Reptilian monsters were just strong. Surely, that had to have been the case.

Sun soon setting as the final round of defeats took shape, the early adult dashed off towards the Marcotte Station. He had to make his way to Poisson right now, or he would be late once again. Throwing on his magician assistant outfit as the Aquabus thrusted him towards the capital city, the hyena threw himself off the boat as fast as it had arrived at the station.

Dashing off towards the next Aquabus station, the soldier deployed his windglider as soon as the vehicle arrived at the Poisson Tunnel. Taking the leap of faith as the underground fish city drew closer with every second, the early adult let out a scream as he descended near the waterfall. Magician's assistant glaring at him, she had words of unkindness ready, and waiting.

"You're late again," the cat girl assistant said, emotionless. "Do you even care about the show at all?"

"-------, what's gotten into you?" the magician asked. He then turned towards his assistant. "My apologies, she's just not used to you yet."

Knowing the cat girl assistant would likely never get used to him, no matter what, the soldier waved the white flag. It was no use saying such a sentence. She was definitely acting prickly and sour towards him on purpose. But, he knew the show must go on. Poisson citizens seated, the magic show had begun with a bang.

Magician getting on top of a makeshift stage with a lot of bravado, the early adult bit his lip. Why did he always have to boost his ego during every single one of his magic shows? This was a problem, for sure. Why couldn't he humble himself? But, he knew he could not change someone else's ways.

Hearing the magician soon say that they will be making all the Fonta, and his sister disappear inside the box containing seawater, the early adult could feel his heart turn to stone. The trick box, did it contain the poisonous primordial seawater? What was he thinking?

Cat girl assistant appearing inside the box alongside multiple bottles of Fonta, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Had she been a projection? What was the point of this trick? Surely, the audience had already seen through it. Clothes and Fonta melting the audience soon did a gasp.

Assistant soon returning while the magician pretended he didn't know where she went, she soon announced she had been back. Audience guffawing up a storm, the next order of business took the show for a loop. Greatest magician saying he's going to make a mermaid appear from the water hole in the corner, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. A mermaid, really? There was no way that stunt was possible. Spotting Ban, Kali and Aigre in the audience, his doubts hardened.

Crude looking mermaid prop that looked like a penguin machine with a mermaid tail appearing on cue, the early adult held back the urge to let out a disapproved grunt. Was anyone seriously falling for this? If he really wanted to have this trick be realistic, he should have asked someone who had the qualities of a mermaid. But, his thoughts were soon cut off.

Soon hearing the magician say he'll make a hyena appear before the very audience, the early adult let out a deep sigh. This trick again? Why did he have to do this in ever show? Mist from his hat soon enshrouding him, the soldier closed his eyes as the countdown loomed over from three to two. Mist dissipating, loud cheers overtook the area.

Audience clapping and saying that animal on stage looked so real, the soldier's heart broke into a million pieces. The animal was him, he was nothing more than a prop to these people, a game, entertainment. Magic show wrapping himself up, the comments kept on coming, but one loud booing sound drowned out the cheers.

"Booooooooo!" Aigre booed. "That mermaid was so fake! Boooooooo! This show stunk!"

"Aigre, shush!" Bain scolded. "That's so rude!"

"Aigre, um, don't say that," Kali scolded as well. "They worked hard on this show."

Aigre continuing to throw a conniption, the sea lion sisters hauled her off like the child she thought she was. Seeing such a scene, the soldier shrugged. Aigre had a right to call out inaccurate depictions of mermaids. Everyone soon clearing out of the area except the Demoiselle, a long discussion between the magician, his assistant and the Spin di Rosula owner took place.

Party of three discussing the Fonta in the air had been spiked with sinthe, the early adult could feel a heavy wave of unease. Sinthe, wasn't that an illicit chemical that was not allowed for consumption? Who would put such a thing in the entire soda supply of Fontaine? Eyes soon on him, orders for him to leave had come his way.

Knowing that, if he did not leave the area, the cat girl assistant would have many more choice words to say to him, the soldier returned to the Aquabus. Heading back towards his hotel room, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Temporary magician assistant outfit put away, as well, the early adult crawled into the temporary bed, but as the world of sleep awaited him, one final question rolled a pebble around in his partially human mind.

The prophecy, was it real?

***

Dreaming had still been a tormenting ordeal within the chimera's adult life. The cycle was a road with only one fork in the road, leading to doom. Path to peace displaced and severed by an earthquake nearly thousands of dreams ago, anguish was the only path forward. The night before him would continue the pattern, as well.

Before him had been a chair covered with roses. Seeing such, a slight wave of ease flowed through the soldier. While he had still not warmed up fully to flowers, their presence was welcome. Readying to seat himself down upon the decorated seat, the hyena took a deep dream breath, but as he seated himself, unwanted guests were present.

Abyssal gazelles seated at a table clanging glasses of Fonta together, the early adult's dream knees buckled. What were these two doing in here? Hearing the two of them scream cheers as they toasted to some unknown victory, the soldier had come to a realization. The laced Fonta, it was their doing, for sure. But, as he had come to such conclusion, the abyssal gazelles turned his way with a disturbed look on their faces.

"What's he doing here during our toast?!" Izzet asked in an angry manner.

Hearing the abyssal gazelle's question, the hyena rolled his eyes to the dream sky. Hello, this was his dream world, what were they doing in here? How did they get in his subconscious landscape in the first place? Hearing the two laugh in a maniacal tone, the tables soon turned.

Abyssal duo summoning a ball of fire, the soldier's body had soon been engulfed in flames. Fire baking him deep into a pie of defeat, the hyena fell on the ground. Closing his eyes as he been set ablaze anew, one last laugh had played in his dream eardrums as he had begun to sing his swan song.

"Your little Fonta show is over!" Kelebek exclaimed, laughing.

Body disintegrating into nothing but charcoal, defeat took the chimera away. As his final moments in the dream world were ticking, a sea of thoughts crashed through him. Safety was dead, torment was on the rise, burning way will always be his utter demise. He knew it, he figured it from the very beginning.

The abyssal gazelles, he suspected them all along.

***

"What is it these strangers are after?
I don't understand.
Look, whatever it is you want revenge on from me, just do it.
Look, whatever it is you want revenge on from me, just complete it.

This has gone on for long enough.
How come every incident ties back to these two?
Even they need to get tired after awhile.
Yet, they're both still going. All of this just because I stopped their plans in the

Elton Trench is so ridiculous.
Very much so. Why can't they just drop this?
Every opportunity they get, they continue to exact
Revenge on me. I just don't get it.

Stopping one of
Their evil abyssal agendas, I just don't get it. Why did this
Open the door to revenge?
Please stop doing this, I'm starting to break."

Waking up the next morning, a wave of heavy unease flowed through the hyena. The abyssal gazelles, just what were they planning? They had to have been doing something to pull the strings with the poisoned batch of Fonta, for sure. But, as his thoughts clouded, a knock brought him back to reality.

Ginger Fatui informing him of an urgent matter that needed to be attended to immediately, the early adult could hardly believe what he was hearing. Told to go clean up the oceans right now and then head off to the Opera Epiclese for the magic show, the early adult's body shook like a maraca. The sea, had the black seawater made its way over there? He needed to get to cleansing, right this instant.

Well dressed soldier elite handing him a strange cleaning robot with the name cashflow in it, the hyena lowered his eyes into a suspicious squint. Was something like this really meant for cleaning? He could not help but feel it was definitely meant for something else.

Heading off towards the Aquabus and jumping off as soon as it hit Poisson tunnel, the soldier dashed off towards the beach. But, immediately upon approaching it, the early adult's eyes opened wide. Entire ocean bed orange, the soldier backed six steps away. Is this real life, or is it just fontasy? Finishing such thoughts, the hyena swore he could hear a piano playing in the distance somewhere.

Having the diving suit drop him down into the sodabed, the cleaning robot had soon come with him. But, immediately upon descending to the trenches beneath, monsters poisoned left, right, upside down, and center surrounded the soldier as the machine sucked out the carbonated sugar garbage from the sea.

Creatures throwing Fonta attacks his way laced with sinthe to the highest possible degree, the early adult could feel a wave of unease. The abyssal gazelles, why would they do something like this, and bring innocent creatures into the mix? How disgusting of them. They would pay for such a crime.

Dropping down the jellyfish head bomb, multiple creatures had gone boom. Sinthe bleeding from their bodies as they fell, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. The illicit chemicals they had been leaking, they had to have been affecting the seabed, for sure. Cleaning robot continuing to do its duty, the soldier pressed onward.

Sea angels shielded up unleashing icy Fonta beams the soldier's way, the early adult dropped down another jellyfish head bomb. Creature blown away as the juices left their body, a wave of guilty flowed through the chimera. The poor, innocent sea creatures, they did not deserve for this to happen to them whatsoever.

Cleaning robot pushing through, the soldier had the diving suit thrust him forward. Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to head towards Chemin de l'espoir, for the time being. Seabed becoming less of a sodabed by the second, the soldier kept cruising over towards the northwestern area of the ocean.

But, the soldier stopped in his tracks. Spotting something concerning in the northern area, the early adult had the diving suit thrust him towards the Salaica Plain. Huge fish nearly triple their normal size spitting out acidic Fonta laser beams, the soldier had commenced cleanup.

Aquatic blades finishing the job, the cleansing continued. Multiple fish poisoned by the illicit liquids, the early adult let out a sigh. Soda was not healthy. Fontaine needed to put it on their laws of banned food and drink consumption. But, he knew such would never happen at any given point.

Catalyst continuing to suck in all the malicious Fonta within the ocean, the soldier kept doing his best efforts to quell the caffeinated up beasts. But, such had come to a quick halt. Sudden current sucking him in, the soldier had been dragged through the ocean towards the northwest area. Unable to pull himself out of the stream, movement was gone, sealed, removed.

Finding himself in Chemin de l'Espoir after what felt like an hour of being dragged away, the soldier continued to clean up as much as he could possibly muster. But, such had soon been halted as two unwanted obstacles soon got in the way. Undersea penguin duo speedily swimming towards him enraged faces, the soldier readied a fist behind him. Whatever they were about to say to him, he was going to fire back this time.

Seeing Ritchie Rich come down here uninvited once again, Vidame was seeing red. How dare this rich person think he can come down here after they had told him so many time their peace treaty was done and finished. He was definitely the one responsible for the sea turning orange. How despicable! He needed to be taught a lesson.

Watching Ritchie Rich waltz around the ocean thinking he was welcome here, Domini whirred up his chain whip. How dare this person think he could come down here all willy nilly after he polluted the entire sea with that disgusting fizzy soda garbage. He deserved to be pummeled into submission for this. It was time to give him his medicine: violence.

"You, how dare you come down here after what you did to the ocean!" Vidame shouted a the top of her gills. She then gave back a rude human fingered gesture. "Ritchie rich, if you thought our peace treaty was over, it's permanently off the table now!"

"You heard her, Ritchie Rich!" Domini added, slapping the flail down upon the rich loser's body seven times, leaving a bruise. "This is what you get for polluting our home!" As he shouted such, his onslaught only worsened.

Penguin duo blaming him for everything and bludgeoning him as if they thought they were angels, the early adult could feel his blood boil. How dare these two pin the blame on him. Who did they think they were always assuming he was the root of all the problems within the Elton Trench? He was not the one responsible. He was getting quite tired of them running their mouths.

"And how could I be responsible for this?" Siorc asked, voice low. "Do you ever think before you accuse me of something? Just because you think I'm rich, doesn't mean I am the one who dumped the toxic Fonta waste down here." He put on a dark smile, ready to pounce. "Grow up, and stop trying to pin the blame on me; focus on cleaning your home."

Ritchie rich demanding him, Domini whirred up the chain whip once again. How dare this rich loser think he could tell him what to do. He was going to get the attack of a lifetime if he thinks he can boss him around. But, his sister soon blocked his incoming flail from incoming.

"Fuggedabout it, Domini, put that thing away," Vidame said, blocking the chain whip. "He's right. 'Sides, I found a cave in the corner. Call a temporary truce."

"Whatever! I'll call a truce!" Domini shouted at the top of his gills. "But, next time we see you, Ritchie Rich, we're ripping up that treaty!"

Penguin duo guiding him to a strange cave hidden underneath a rock, a surprise awaited the soldier. Spotting six machines pumping out poison Fonta one after another, the early adult could feel his heart begin to sink. How did these get down here? Readying the jellyfish bomb, the onslaught soon begun.

Scythe, chain whip and xenochromatic attacks doing their duty, the entire seabed had been free from is fontaification. Knowing that was his cue to leave, the soldier had the diving suit thrust him towards the surface. Returning to the Aquabus, a sea of thoughts flowed through him as it prepared itself to head towards Marcotte Station.

As the Aquabus had gotten closer to the opera house with every step, the soldier could not help but wonder. Why Fonta? What a strange liquid to poison. But, he supposed the abyssal gazelles had set their target to something local. Whatever reason they had for such, he was none the wiser.

Soon reaching the opera house, a surprising set of faces awaited him at the entrance. Malika, Earl, Baron and even Kaiser, the soldier tilted his head. Were they waiting for him? Why was the entire family at the front door, shouldn't they have been waiting in the audience? Malika looking at him, she soon greeted him.

"There you are, darling," Malika said, hands on his shoulder. "Oh, dear, you're a mess. Let's freshen you up."

Malika pulling him into a backroom with a sea of makeup, the soldier broke out into a sweat. He was being made up now? Wasn't it already too late for such a thing? Foundation, blush and very light eyeshadow pressed onto his face, the early adult looked in the mirror.

Gazing at his reflection, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Did he look pretty, he didn't look like a clown, did he? Changing into his magic assistant uniform, the early adult slapped his cheeks. This was it, the final show. He would soon be free from his duties as a magic assistant. He would soon be removed from this wretched toy status as a member in the troupe.

Soon going behind the stage, the soldier peeked his head through the curtain. Mostly generic nobodies in the seats with the exception of the penguins, the jackal, and the Hydro Archon sitting upon her throne, the early adult let out a gulp. It was a full house tonight, he was feeling the butterflies eat him alive.

Magician saying he, the greatest magician no longer needs to introduce himself as this is his sixth show here, the hyena lowered his eyes in to a squint. His fourth? What happened to the second through fifth? But, he supposed when he had performed on the opera stage, it was definitely not the magician's first.

Amateur card tricks taking the stage for minutes on end, the soldier let out a sigh. What was he even here for? Surely, he wasn't needed for anything today to require his attendance. Card trick soon coming to an end, the magician stated they didn't come here for beginner tricks, it was time for something exciting.

Magic water box hologram trick soon taking the stage, the soldier shook his head from behind the curtain. What did anyone at all find appealing about all this? Absolutely ludicrous nonsense. None of this was entertaining if they knew trick. But, he supposed the audience definitely did not know the secrets.

Multiple tricks firing one after another with some pyrotechnics, the hyena let out a yelp behind the curtain. Why were they doing that? Was fire really necessary for this show? Cat girl assistant shushing him, the soldier zippered the lip. Right. Be quiet. The show was on.

Magician soon announcing he would be performing a swap again, the soldier blinked of bewilderment. This trick again? Didn't he ever get tired of doing that one? But, the early adult knew he was getting ahead of himself. Spotlight soon shot on him saying he would be swapping with his fellow assistant right here, the early adult placed himself in the stage box.

But, as the audience fired up the countdown, a mistake of disastrous proportions took the show by a fire storm. Hearing the sound of a poof coming from the stage box, the soldier could feel a wave of unease flow through him as the magician and he crawled through the compartments. Returning to the audience box, a sight like no other soon stole the show.

"It's all over for him!" Kelebek shouted. "The stupid show is over!"

Abyssal gazelles making a racket in the stage box, a monster had soon been summoned. Orb creature from Elynas appearing on stage, oozing toxic Fonta, the soldier had come to a solid conclusion. Kelebek and Izzet, this was their doing, without any shadow of a doubt. Monster bringing out the rampage, a self important question interrupted.

"Is this part of the show?" the Hydro Archon asked in a flamboyant tone. "Dear -----, if you're wasting our precious theater space--" But her words were cut out by the screams of he audience. "Everyone, calm down, I the Hydro Archon, Focalors, shall protect you all from this little problem!" But, she had soon be interrupted.

"Enemies to my future husband are my enemies, too!" Earl shouted.

Watching as Earl ran on his stage, gauntlets on, punching the living daylights out of the Fonta spewing monster, the early adult could feel himself begin to crumble. Why were the abyssal gazelles doing this, and why was the pesky thorn in his side involving himself? He did not need to do this. Voices calling out, the opera house only got louder.

"Earl, don't be boorish!" Baron called out. "You can't win this!"

"Earl, this is just part of the show, darling!" Malika called out. "Come back to your seat!" But, Kaiser interrupted.

"Malika, I don't think this is part of the show," Kaiser said, voice emotionless.

"Kaiser, does that matter? He's being foolish," Baron responded. They then cupped their hands around their mouth. "Back down, Earl!"

Earl not giving up the fight, another person soon joined the party. Rabiu soon stepping up the plate with a peculiar robotic looking weapon, the soldier froze in place. Why was the jackal getting up on stage, too? He knew, he had to join in on the battle right now. But, a mysterious layer of glue locked him down onto the floor.

"Um, Earl, right?" Rabiu asked, voice shaking. "Is it um, alright if I help you out? I have the machine to stop it."

Earl agreeing, but asking why, he wanted to be the one to save his husband from his evil enemies, a phrase he did not wish to bear witness to took the stage. Rabiu saying they have the same goal, the early adult could feel a twinge of irritation buckle into his throat. Did he have another person who was about to act like he's their future partner? How annoying.

Machine doing its honors, the orb monster dissipated into condensed energy. Abyssal gazelle duo firing a beam off in the audience's direction, the crowd let out a terrified scream. Throwing the core away with a combined punch, the strangers waved their fists across the air.

"Penguin, he'll get his revenge!" Kelebek shouted, pointing.

"Nyahaha, and you too, hyena!" Izzet shouted, pointing

Strangers dissolving like water into some portal, the early adult's heart raced. Remaining crowd saying this show was ruined, they wanted their Mora back, the atmosphere weighed heavy. How could somethin like this happen again? What a terrible end to an already awful show of lies.

Magician telling Siorc his placement in the magic troupe has been temporarily suspended, the soldier puffed a sigh of relief. He was free from his duties, it was time to get out of here, leave. Getting off the stage, the soldier swore the cat girl magic assistant was smiling. Returning his magician assistant uniform and slipping on his winter jacket, the chimera exited the opera house, but as he stepped outside, he could feel a tug on his uniform.

"Are you alright?" Rabiu asked, he then hid a tiny blush. "I really don't like how they're exploiting you for entertainment."

Giving the jackal man a nod, the early adult sighed. He supposed this chimera wasn't nearly as annoying as Earl. But, as he gave the young man a nod, the Agent soon pushed him aside like he was an obstacle. Looking ready to cry, the young soldier balled up a fist. Couldn't he have at least said excuse me? How rude.

"Good job cleaning up the ocean, soldier," the Agent said, pride evident in his tone. "You are hereby dismissed. Return to Snezhnaya immediately."

Dismissal granted, the early adult opened the proxy orb into map form. Highlighting the waypoint towards the military barracks, the hyena closed his eyes. Icy cold hallways upon him in a split second, the chimera headed towards the soundproof room. Reaching the steel walled room after fifteen minutes of walking, a yawn released itself from his partially human throat.

Wave of fatigue breaking loose, the soldier removed the weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed, as well, and glasses put aside, the chimera slumped into the uncomfortable bed. But, one final thought wrapped vines around the hyena as the world of sleep took him away.

He was nothing more than a toy.

A pawn on the chessboard.

Something to use.

Chapter 14: Poisson's Portal, Sick Willow Tree, Black Crystals, Fantasy

Chapter Text

"Wait a second,
Hold on, what exactly is it that I
Am doing? Destroying crystals?
Taking a look at portals?

I don't understand. I
Simply do not

Get it.
Of all orders, why this?
I don't understand I simply do
Not get it. Things are
Getting much stranger.

Overall, this is worsening.
Nothing makes sense anymore.

Why crystals?
How did these get here?
Yesterday, I was in Liyue

Again. So I cannot quite fathom this,
Really. This always seems to happen
Every time my orders are elsewhere

There is a new crisis waiting for me to end.
How many times does this make?
Eh. I don't know.
Rather, I am not keeping track.
Each and every time, something happens.

Could this be a sign of
Relatively worse things to come?
Yes, I suspect so.
Something isn't right.
Though, this is just
Another attempt at something from those Abyss Gazelles.
Looks like they'll try anything,
So, I shan't rule out this possibility.

Every single time they are the cause. It is
Very tiring, but I am always sent out to deal with it
Every single time. After all I'm just a
Rook on Het Majesty's chessboard,
Yielded from a checkmate.
Whenever she does,
Her game will reset, and will
End up back where it started.
Right, I'm just a game piece.
Every time, it's always the same.

It's all the same.

Don't know how much longer,
Or if these crisis will ever end.

Nothing seems to be
Over, only
The beginning. Those gazelles, are

Unleashing their darker capabilities.
No, I am just exaggerating.
Doubt they have that much strength.
Everyone has a limit on their powers.
Right, everyone, even gods.
Surely, they are not
The strongest there is. Surely,
Abyssal powers have their limits. I know
Nothing, so I will just
Do as I am told.

Will these portals leads me somewhere
Harrowing? I am unsure, this is all quite
Eerie. But, I cannot disobey, or I will be
Rammed into the ground,
Every order I am given, I must

Do it diligently.
I have to do it perfectly.
Diligence is key.

This might be a strange order, but
Her Majesty's orders are absolute.
Every single one.
Yes, so them all to the best of my ability.

Cut through crystal? No problem,
Obviously. How hard could it be?
My duties begin.
Each and every one will be cut,

For Her Majesty.
Rip them apart.
Onwards to Fontaine.
My day begins silently."

Four days had passed since the hyena's duties within the magic troupe resumed. Nothing of especial note occurred. Diplomatic affairs in Liyue overtaking the ninety-six hours, four days of mundaneness marched onward inexorably with no signs of pressing the nonexistent horse reigns.

Upon waking up for the morning, the hyena shivered with a ferocity. Room below freezing, the early adult let out a groan. If only he had a sweater for such frigid mornings. But, the soldier knew he had to suck it up. There was no time for complaints. Stepping towards the barricaded window, for a moment, the chimera observed the world outside.

Studying the snowfall through the paned glass, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes. Had it already reached sixty centimeters of snow in the permafrost north? But, the early adult shook his head. His estimation had to have been extremely off. There was no way it had gotten to such a point already. Throwing himself away from such, the early adult had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the chimera put on his uniform, the hyena could not help but wonder. The snow, when will it stop falling? Surely, there had to have been a limit to how much could accumulate. But, the hyena stopped himself from thinking further. Why did it matter? He would not be here for long for it to creep up on him.

Returning his focus to the workday at hand, the chimera clicked the weaponized hairpins and earrings into place. Adorning matching black hearts in his hair and ears, the soldier stared at the jewelry and accessory box. Turning his prized possessions into weapons, was this truly what he wanted? Rational brain on, at the moment, regret filled the hyena. But, he knew it had been too late to reverse such decision. The deal had been sealed.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the soldier gaze at the yellow-green orb, for a moment. Visions, what would happen to them if one did not use them for awhile; would the gods reclaim it? But, the early adult threw such thought away. There was no Vision Hunt Decree in Snezhnaya. There was no way it would be taken away from him.

Heelless shoes on, and rations devoured, the early adult dashed off towards the barricaded window once more. How could anyone walk through such deep snow and get anywhere in the right amount of time? Surely, such frozen bed of liquid acted as an obstacle of all sorts. Wind blow too furiously for visibility, the hyena turned his head around. There was nothing to see. He needed to focus. His orders were going to arrive at any minute.

Hearing the louder than ever before Fatui Agent boots march about right on time, the early adult turned his attention towards the door. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. He needed to throw all his other thoughts away. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. His workday of anything was about to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will be going around he Belleau Region to collect deposits of Black Crystals, and investigate portals within Poisson." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Anything with power should belong to Her Majesty. "Take your time with this mission. The crystals are quite stubborn."

The hyena jumped six steps back upon hearing he would be heading to Poisson today. He did not quite understand. Black crystals? How did such a thing even get there? Did the minerals grow in the location overnight? Absolutely baffling. Nothing made sense.

The soldier's heart skipped a beat as the words portal echoed in his inhuman eardrums. He has to investigate portals, as well? Why this, of all orders? Surely, there had to have been other, more experienced members of the Fatui who dealt with such phenomena more often than he did.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Did you hear me? You're going to the Belleau region to collect crystals and investigate portals!" There was an irritated tone in his voice. What could the soldier be possibly thinking about? He did not know. "Quit dawdling, and get a move on!"

The chimera flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for thinking. If he kept Her Majesty waiting, his life would be over, in an instant, guaranteed. Taking a long deep breath, the early adult placed his arm out in front of him. Right, no dawdling. Time had run out.

"Yes, sir," the soldier responded. Cut out for such job or not, it did not matter.

"Excellent. Let's go, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the limb had been gripped into a firm grasp. Gripping prison as tight as glue holding together a macaroni project, the chimera closed his eyes as the escort began.

Just what is going on in Fontaine?

***

"Man, men are just so annoying.
Even though Lonan is my childhood friend, I did
Not agree to letting him live with me. Well,

At first, I did, but this imbecile, I swear to King
Remus. He said this to me maybe a few weeks ago, 'Yo, Gwendolyn, pretend you're my girlfriend.'
Ew. The audacity. The

Sheer audacity of this man.
Of course, I saw this coming for

A long time now. He always claims he does
Not like living down in Fleuve Cendre. Then, just get a job and find a way out.
No need to bring me into this.
Oh, why am I friends with him?
You know, it's probably because our parents are, or were,
I guess. I don't know.
Now, during this conversation, I asked him, 'Why? And why should I pretend to be your
Girlfriend?'

Well, I am sure this response was expected.
He said, 'I'm tired of living down there in poor country, Gwen! Let me crash at your place as your bf.'
Yeah, okay. So? That's my problem because? It

Absolutely, positively is not
My problem. Nor should it be.

I elbow him. I

Elbow him hard. 'That's not my problem, Lonan.' And, I
Very much mean it. I don't care.
Even so, he presses on. 'Girl, come on, it'll only be for a little while!'
No. I know him, a little while turn into a long while. So, I try to

Flake. 'Then live with your cousin
Robin, or something. Become his problem.' Then, this
Imbecile says, 'Ain't no way I'm living in the mountains west of here.'
Every time, I am baffled by this man's stupidity.
Now, I try again, 'Then go by bother my cousin.'
Do you know what he then
Says back? 'Can't do that, Robin

Will think I'm tryin' to take his boyfriend.'
I swear to Focalors, men.
They are so annoying.
He's not giving me a choice to say no, is he?

Look, this is hardly my my problem, but
Oh, no, he's not giving me a choice.
Now, I just say it. 'Fine, I'll pretend you're my boyfriend, for now. But,
As soon as you make enough Mora, you're leaving my house!'
Now he's celebrating. What a moron."

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Was it just his imagination, or had something been off? But, the hyena kept himself quiet. There was no time to think about such things. Any minute now, and he would be dragged down the hill.

Dragged down the mountain like always, the early adult turned his head toward the right and left. Was it just him, or was the air hotter than normal? But, the soldier threw such thoughts away as the boat had been summoned. What did it matter? A little heat was nothing to concern himself over. Wooden vessel cruised forward, the sun dropped down its beams of doom.

As the boat got closer towards the harbor, the soldier could not help but ponder. Just what could be wrong with Fontaine? He knew something was definitely off with the region. But, his thoughts were soon cut off as the Agent grabbed his wrist once more. Dragged towards the stairwell, the chimera threw his concerns out the window.

Agent reminding him for what felt like the millionth time he was not allowed to teleport anywhere in Fontaine, the early adult held back the urge to bark like a dog. Just how many times was he going to say this? He knew already. He was getting quite tired of hearing the same line over and over again. But, the early adult soon heard something he did not know.

Informed he would need to head to the Palais Mermonia to get his supplies for the mission and for further instruction, the early adult lowered his eyes into a squint. He had to head to the Iudex's place of business? What a strange order to be given. But, he knew he could not question it. Agent exiting the area, the soldier pressed onward.

Ascending the staircase and taking the glass lift, the hyena headed towards the Aquabus station. But, as he stepped towards the area, a shocking sight awaited him. Long line stretching from side to side, questions bounced around the chimera's mind. Why was it so busy here today? Was another court case about to happen?

Hearing multiple people chatter about some sort of legendary duelist duking it out with criminals in the streets today, the soldier scratched his head. What did those generic nobodies just say? A duel against criminals? What about that was entertaining to people? But, he supposed the Fontaine citizens got a thrill off of drama.

Aquabus shortly arriving everyone on line in front of him barreled onto the vessel one after another. Melusine tour guide telling people to get on patiently, and one at a time, no one listened. Squeezing himself between a group of people, the hyena was a sandwich between human bread as the vessel automatically cruised forward.

Feeling himself boxed in as the vessel moved past the Poisson Tunnel, the hyena could not help but wonder. What was so entertaining about watching a person duel a criminal? The Nation of Justice and their ways with entertainment were quite the spectacle.

Melusine pointing out her home of Merusea Village, the generic nobodies yelled heard it, seen it, talk about the Champion Duelist, the soldier swore he could see the tour guide sweating up a storm. Was the pressure getting to her? Hearing her apologize and begin talking about ---------, the early adult was squished further.

Everyone soon running off the aquabus as soon as it was docked, the hyena stretched out, for a moment. He swore if he were to be squished any longer, he would be as flat as an accordion. Melusine apologizing to him for everything being so busy, the chimera shook his head. Why was she apologizing to him for such?

Knowing he had to head for Palais Mermonia right away, the soldier had begun moving forward. But, as he had started walking on the streets, the heat let itself in. City bustling with activity beyond recognition, the hyena broke into a sweat. Was everyone here just to see the legendary duelist? How ridiculous. Surely, they had other things to do with their lives than watch some criminals get attacked.

But, as the chimera attempted to move through the streets, the swarm of people ate the hyena up. Walkways crowded from every angle, elbows rubbed against the chimera multiple times. Rich nobodies dressed up to the nines telling him to watch where he was going, the soldier held back the urge to growl. Was that a pot and kettle he heard going off in the distance?

Attempting to move through the northern streets, the early adult's buttocks had soon become one with the ground. Rich nobodies galore telling him he was in their way, the chimera brushed off his pants as he returned to his feet. Didn't anyone in this city know the words excuse me? Rudeness was a terrible look to behold.

Multiple people running through the streets saying the duel will be starting any minute, the early adult's face soon hit the pavement once more as the citizens kept on barreling through. Everyone looking ready to trample him flat as if he were a bridge for them to cross over, the hyena lifted himself up. He needed to get away from this crowd as soon as possible.

Tidal wave screaming it's starting soon, the early adult could barely move through the human traffic. What was with this large scale excitement. Hadn't these people seen a duel before? But, perhaps, just maybe, it was a special fight never seen before. Perhaps it was best to hold such judgement for the time being.

Continuing to move through the crowd as the people moved through the northwestern streets, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Just who could this so called legendary duelist be? There had to have been multiple. Squished once more, the crowd went wild.

Soon reaching the south streets near the blacksmith, the hyena dragged out a sigh. Why today, of all days, did the city have to be so busy? Moving through the area nearly being impossible as his possibly human rear had been dropped on the ground once more, the early adult moved towards the back of the tidal wave.

But, as the streets beside Fleuve Cendre grew closer, the early adult could hardly believe his eyes. Treasures Hoarders out in the streets looking ready to fight, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. All of this for a group of petty criminals? What was so entertaining about this?

Purple haired champion duelist looking ready to draw her blade, another person stood beside her. Young eyepatched woman with long purple hair that went down to her knees, red outfit, white leggings and musket, the early adult tilted his head. And just who was this now? Was she some sort of duelist, too? People cheering one after another, a voice broke through the noise.

"If you people are any more ill behaved, I'll send the security mekas after you!" the eyepatched lady shouted.

Treasure hoarders soon screaming bring it on, they're not going to lose, the early adult shook his head. What did these criminals hope to achieve? Throw a potion at her? This would do nothing to a champion duelist, for sure. Bottles quickly snapped in half, the tall woman drew her sword.

Treasure hoarders decimated in on fell swoop, the early adult shook his head as the crowd cheered and jeered. Seeing the criminals fall to the ground and promptly handcuffed, a wave of unease flowed through the hyena. If he were to make even one wrong move, he would end up like those petty thieves, for sure.

Musket wielding woman saying rather profound stuff as she marched with to the duelist's beat, the crowd soon cleared out. Everything soon as dead as the night, the chimera readied to move himself forward. Moving through the southern streets without a problem, the soldier cracked his knuckles. It was time to head towards the Aquabus information station.

Moving towards the fountain in the southern passageway, not a single magic show had been present in the area. Seeing such, the early adult let out a sigh of relief. No more noise, no more people. But, such had been proven wrong in a matter of moments as he stepped foot into the information station.

Spotting the penguin thorn in his side by the elevator, the early adult held back the urge to groan. Why was Earl here at the most inconvenient of times? Couldn't he ever go a week without him being around and getting in his business? But, he knew that was just not possible. Pest coming his way, the hyena prepared for the unpleasant encounter.

Seeing Siorc walk towards the elevator, the curiosity bug bit Earl's cheeks. Was he heading off to Palais Mermonia, too? This was a match made in Celestia. He knew he needed to ask him what his future husband was up to today. Goofy smile on his face, he readied to smash the ice.

"Hi again, Siorc! We're always running into each other!" Earl greeted. "Are you heading to Palais Mermonia? Me, too! What a coincidence!"

The hyena held back the urge to let out a groan. He was heading off to the Iudex's office, too? What a nightmare. Perhaps, just maybe, it was best to just lie about where he was going. But, the early adult threw such idea away. He was a bad liar, there was no way that would work. Maybe telling him yes would get him to leave him be.

"That is correct, sir," Siorc responded, voice barely audible. But, such response soon had unfortunate consequences.

Hearing his future husband say he was heading there, too, Earl's eyes practically had stars in them. They were both heading to the same place? They should go together, letting down his hand, he reached for his palm. What a very wifey thing for him to do. Surely, there would be wedding bells in the near future.

"We should go together then, since we're going to the same place!" Earl said, grabbing the hyena's hand.

Earl soon gripping his palm, the early adult let out a groan. Why did he always have to insist on doing this? How annoying. He was not some lost child in the streets. But, the soldier knew that once the pesky penguin thorn in his side had his mind made up, there was no changing it. Giving him a nod, the glass box ride soon began.

Glass lift soon taking the party of two to the fourth floor in less than a minute, the escort towards Palais Mermonia soon began. Melusine receptionist up front telling Earl he could enter his office with no appointment, the chimera blinked. He was allowed into the chief justice's office without arranging a meeting in advanced? Rich people broke all the rules.

Iudex looking rather busy sorting through multiple documents all at once, the young soldier backed multiple steps away as his hand had been let go of. Was the Chief Justice of Fontaine busy? Why couldn't the Agent have just told him what his instructions were, if such were the case? But, as he thought such, Earl's grating voice threw him back into reality.

"Monsieur ---------, I brought over the suit you ordered!" Earl exclaimed, placing the article of clothing on his desk.

Suit that looked identical to the one he was currently wearing, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. What about this outfit was new? It was almost as if, in the world of Teyvat, and even beyond, everyone had identical looking outfits that they wore every single day with no sense of variety. Iudex soon turning towards him, the next order of business was upon him.

"Thank you, monsieur Siorc for lending your assistance to the Marechaussee Phantom," the Iudex said. "I do not want the Melusines harming themselves, so I hope you do not mind taking on this mission." He then handed the young man a satchel filled with supplies. "It would seem a rather generous donor placed a rather expensively made Claymore in your supply bag. But, do proceed with caution, young man. I have heard reports those crystals exude a bit of danger." As he said such, the pesky penguin added himself to the mix.

"I offer myself as tribute!" Earl exclaimed, raising his hand. "I'll go with him."

"I would advise against it, monsieur Earl," the Iudex responded. "Those crystals might contain effects harmful to penguins."

Watching as Earl sulked around while attempting to worm his way into his mission, the early adult opened up his satchel. Peering inside, the soldier's heart skipped two beats at what awaited inside him. Spotting a dark blue claymore encased with sharp diamonds all along the edges, the hyena tilted his head. What did he need this for? Wouldn't any normal blade do?

Melusine soon stepping inside the Iudex's office giving him a cup of water, she soon turned towards the chimera. Young sea denizen lady soon informing him that the blade was known as the Diamond Slasher, and that the crystals were far harder in richness than most normal minerals, the chimera put the blade away. He supposed he understood now why such weapon was needed.

Heading back towards the Aquabus station, the soldier stared off into space as the vehicle of automatic movement headed towards Poisson Tunnel. Knowing he was in for the crystal battle of a lifetime, the early adult steeled himself. What kind of tough crystals were about to grace his presence? He supposed he was about to find out.

Soon reaching the halfway point, the early adult exited the ride. Deploying his wind glider as he hopped off the ledge, the young soldier soon staged his landing. As he had done so, however, a shocking sight awaited him from corner to corner. Spotting unusual objects everywhere, the chimera studied his surroundings, for a moment.

Large, black deposits of square crystals clumped together, rotted onto the ground from beach to almost near the tower in the east, the hyena's heartbeat sped up a smidgeon. How did these minerals get here? There was no way they had been here naturally, at all. He needed to get rid of them right away.

Figuring the best order of business was to start by the beach, the chimera walked off towards the southern section of the area. Spotting the first deposit of crystals, a dark aura soon surrounded the area. Feeling such, the hyena's knees buckled. What was this pressure? Something was not right, for sure.

Removing the diamond slasher from his satchel, Siorc thrusted the blade forward towards the minerals of darkness. Cleaving down the swipe of a lifetime, the soldier let out a battle cry. The crystals, they needed to be broken. The aura had to disappear. He needed to bring the rocks to their knees.

But, such destruction never came. Crystals not falling out of their deposits even a smidgeon, the chimera placed the claymore beside him. Why weren't the minerals breaking? Were they far harder than even diamond? But, he knew it was too early to give up. He needed to break through.

Attempting once more to cut through the crystal, nothing happened. Seeing such, the soldier broke into a sweat. Why were they still not budging? Blade barely able to do anything, the hyena could feel his willpower waver. Were these minerals secretly diamonds? He needed to put more force into strikes.

Swinging the claymore towards the left, the early adult attempted with all his might to break on through to the other side. But his attempts continued to fall flat for minutes on end. Nothing doing, the chimera let out a deep throated grunt. Just what was he doing wrong? Surely, he had to have been cutting properly.

Sifting through his satchel, the early adult looked through the pockets inside with a fervor. Surely, there had to have been something that could make getting rid of these crystals easier. Feeling something rubber soon hit his hands, the hyena removed the object, in a heartbeat.

Peculiar wrist jewelry written with the words gravity bracelet in the center, the early adult rose an eyebrow. The what now? Slipping it onto his wrist, the ground soon shook about. Crystals shattering from their deposits, in an instant, a sea of questions flowed through him. What just happened? How did such object do that?

As the soldier had begun to pick up the shattered minerals, an assortment of dark energy soon entered the beach crabs in the corner. Monsters clamping their pinchers together, the early adult dropped the minerals on the ground. Crustaceans coming his way in a swift manner, the hyena gulped.

Crabs throwing hands as they approached him, sweat poured down the hyena's back. Was he going to have to defeat the monsters before moving forward? Enemy lowering its back, pitch black stones of darkness had soon been tossed the chimera's way. Boulders slapped around his knees aplenty, the soldier let out a scream.

Crustacean monsters throwing down more of their rocky attacks of offense, the hyena placed the blade in front of him. Jumping four steps back, the boulders had been sent back to their owners within seconds. Monsters stunned, for a moment, the soldier aimed for the shell.

Creatures soon fading into the ether, the soldier crouched back onto the ground. Dark, oozing energy flowing through the crystals as he picked them up once more, the chimera's knees buckles. Just what was inside these minerals? Whatever it was, it was definitely not a good thing.

Knowing there was more where that came from, the chimera had begun to head north. Soon spotting more crystal oozing with dark energy, the hyena took a long, deep breath. Whatever was inside these minerals, he could not allow himself to be afraid of them. He needed to get this job done, no matter what.

Letting the blade do the talking as the gravity bracelet had been put away, the crystals fell from their deposits faster than a speeding bullet upon the wind. Readying to pick up the collection of pieces, the early adult bent down onto his knees, but such was cut short as more crabs strutted down the walkway.

Sideways walking creatures dancing around the minerals, the dark energy rooted within surrounded the creatures. Monsters ballooning in size as they got their meal of power, the hyena backed two steps away. Just what was contained inside these things? Monsters thrusting towards him, the fight was on.

Dirty sand from the beach thrown underneath the soldier's glasses, the world was a filthy pool of dust and grime. Creatures continuing their onslaught of sediment for minutes on end, visibility was a thing of the past. Closing his eyes as the flurry only continued, the hyena placed the claymore in front of him.

Swinging the blade with a fury, the chimera spun around in a circle. Blade clamping down on the enemy as the creatures kept swirling around sand from their shells, the hyena kept the momentum going. Hearing a loud crack emerge as he continued to do so, everything broke.

Opening soon created, the hyena thrust the blade down upon the creature's only line of defenses. Every single grab soon dropping after, the early adult huffed a tired breath. What was with the crustaceans on the beach today? Moving back towards the dark jewels of doom, the chimera readied his diamond slasher.

Next set of crystals removed from their deposits, the hyena could not help but wonder further. Just what was going on here? Whatever these minerals were doing to the nearby living creatures, it was certainly not a good thing. He would need to keep an eye on anything or anyone suspicious as he continued to trek further.

Moving along further north throughout the Belleau region, the next set of crystals soon awaited him. But, a new obstacles added itself to the player two spot on the invisible control panel. Jewels surrounded by a boxy shield of glass, the early adult could feel his body grow stiff. Who set up a security protocol?

Throwing his blade out into the open, the soldier's diamond edges did not put a singular dent onto the glass. Attempting to cut through again, the early adult's brows had soon become as wet as a rainy day. Whoever this rich person was that donated this claymore to him, they definitely lied about it being made with diamonds.

Trying once more to cut through, the hyena let out another battle cry. Surely, if he kept on striking, the glass would come crashing down. But, such continued to be prove to be an impossibility amongst it all. Nothing doing, the early adult's lip quivered. What in the world was going on? Surely, there had to be a way to destroy the defenses.

Failing to deliver the destructive blow for minutes on end, the early adult lowered himself to his knees. Why was he even trying anymore? Nothing was working. He had found himself in an impenetrable fortress, stronger than the underwater bastion deep below the Liffey Region. There was nothing to be done, it was the crystal's world, and he was living in it.

But, the hyena rose back to his feet. What was he doing, allowing himself to give up so easily? It was far too early to be a quitter. Her Majesty would be disappointed in him if he waved the white flag now. Reaching for the gravity bracelet, the soldier rescinded his surrender.

Ground shaking up a storm once more, the sound of glass shattering one after another decorated the ground like a jigsaw puzzle. Crystals removed from their deposits just as quickly, the early adult picked up the spoils of war. Placing them in his satchel, the chimera's heart skipped four beats. What was this intense energy he was feeling?

Continuing onward, the soldier broke as many crystals out of their deposits as he could muster for hours on end. But, as he kept doing so, the early adult broke out into a long winded pant. Breath taking itself away, the hyena could not help but wonder. Could the crystals be harming him from the inside as well? But, the chimera snapped himself out of it. He was overthinking it, surely. He was just tired.

Spotting more minerals as he kept continuing onward towards the northern path, the early adult kept cutting with a fury. Intense energy bathing him for minutes on end, the soldier let out a deep huff. Why was this getting far more tiring by the second? But, the soldier knew he had to keep on going, no matter what.

Soon finding himself near the entrance of Poisson, the crystals struck back. Minerals laying themselves up around the wooden pathways and everywhere else the eyes could see, the early adult removed the claymore from behind him once more. Glass box shield bringing itself to the table, in an instant, the impenetrable wall took the area by a rainstorm.

Glass wall reigning supreme as it continued laying down the law, the hyena stared off into space. Did the shields just connect with one another? What absolute ludicrous nonsense. Did these minerals have minds of their own? Crystals of a feather stuck together. Moving towards the first barrier, the gravity bracelet slapped down upon his wrist once more.

But, such quakes about were not enough to quell the defense line before him. Glass wall repairing itself as fast as it had been destroyed, the soldier could feel his will waver once more. The shields had a self fixing function? Unbelievable. How was he supposed to compete with such layers of defense? But, he knew he had to keep trying, no matter what.

Attempting for the second time to remove the barrier, the soldier let out a shout. But, the cycle continued. Glass box growing in size as it kept growing back, the hyena's eyebrows twitched. What was this, an endless supply of growth formula crafted by researchers? Surely, there had to be a way to prevent it from coming back.

Defenses not yielding as the attempts list continued to grow, nothing came together over him. Not moving forward with the crystal destruction, the hyena could feel the world around him close into a box. Just what was it that he was doing incorrectly? Perhaps, just maybe, the barrier could use a little push.

Letting his blade do the talking, the soldier had begun to strike the barrier once more, but such had done nothing, as well. Glass not breaking, even for a moment, the early adult's will died further. Was this glass box made out of something harder than diamond? His blade was a useless piece of junk.

But, as the attempts kept on going, a realization had washed over the chimera. The barrier, there was a short time where there was enough time to get through the space near the crystal. Surely, that would get rid of the defenses for good. Resolute on his decision, the early adult allowed destruction to become his mistress once more.

Dashing towards the crystal deposits as fast as his currently human legs could carry him, the barrier enclosed the soldier within its glassy clutches. Everything in motion, the chimera slashed the mineral deposits to ribbons one after another. Shield becoming glass shards upon the ground, the soldier brushed his hands together.

Feeling a heavy wave of fatigue as he headed upon the eastward path, the early adult turned his head towards the right and left. Was there even any portals around Poisson at all? He had not come across a single once since coming here. But, the early adult kept moving forward. It was best to deal with one problem at a time. The portals could wait until later.

Reaching the area north of the West Slopes, multiple minerals glared back at the hyena with fury. Readying to leave his mark upon the jewels of the world, the claymore had done its bidding once more. But, the rocks had not been alone. Hilichurls coming up running, the chimera heaved a sigh. The deposits had friends? It was time to break up this relationship.

Primitive monsters beating their arms on their chest, the soldier swung the self proclaimed diamond slasher forward. Enemies falling to their knees, a loud scream entered the area. Fight only having one side, the early adult kept the momentum going. Did these monsters think they were putting up a fight? They had another thing coming if they assumed so.

But, the easy switch soon flipped over to foul play. Stones seated in the monster's hands, the early adult's torso and the weapons of choice, the soldier bent over as the attacks kept on coming. Raising back to his feet as the onslaught readied to reset itself, the chimera switched the position of his legs.

A blind spot, however, would shine amongst the rest. Back stoned into bloodshed, the early adult bit his tongue. These Hilichurls had some brains behind their masks, for sure. Wiping himself up, the soldier placed himself into a fighting stance once more. This time, for sure, he would send the rocks back.

Stones sent flying as if he had hit them across the playing field, the Hilichurls soon had become one with the ocean. Crystals cut and thrown into the satchel, the chimera kept sauntering onward. But, the soldier swore everything had begun to loop as he kept moving forward.

Monsters gaining power ups a dozen from the minerals parading about, a struggle fight took the chimera by surprise. Monsters adorning robes and zapping him aplenty, lightning tickled the chimera's uniform multiple times in a row. Deflection aiding him in battle, the soldier thanked the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship for his training in evasion and defenses.

Reaching the west slopes, peculiar crystals laid in front of the soldier. Minerals eating each other for breakfast, the early adult's mouth dropped wide open. What in all of Teyvat did he just witness? Jewels munching on one another a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Creatures eating their own kind, how disgusting.

Feast soon reaching its final supper, the early adult's eyes practically fell out of his face. Crystal almost the size of a Mondstadt windmill, the hyena's legs almost turned to stone. How was he supposed to destroy this thing? I was taller than six of him standing on top of one another.

Climbing up the top of the crystal tower, the early adult had come to a quick and haphazard conclusion. Perhaps, just maybe, plunging into the minerals a couple of times would break the jewels down into bits and pieces. Letting the wind lead, the chimera slammed himself down towards the obstacle.

Black crystal broken into tens of pieces after about six plunges, the hyena let out a huff. Dark energy pulsating as he dropped the next commodities into his satchel, the soldier could feel his airwaves tighten. Attempting to do his breathing exercises, the soldier kept heading upon the eastward path.

Towering jewels destroyed one after another along the west slopes, the soldier let out a cough. Was it just him, or was it getting tougher to breathe deeply the more crystals he cut to ribbons? But, the hyena shook his head. He had to have been imagining it, for sure. The air was just thinner today. That had to have been it.

As the hyena headed towards the east slopes, every single remaining mineral deposit had been slain. Such, however, had only been the first round of many. Goat masked denizens in black robes appeared from tiny portals, the opposing chanted a séance as the air had thinned further.

"Crystal here, crystal there, crystal crystal everywhere!" the masked denizens sang.

Jewel deposits returning by the baker's dozen everywhere he had just left, the hyena's mouth laid open agape. Did those masked men just do what he thought they did? Why would they do such a thing? How could they bring all the crystals back after he just spent hours destroying them? Was this just a game? If this was nothing more than a challenge for the enemy's amusem*nt, he was not about to play by the rules any longer.

Dashing back around towards the west slopes, the crystal eat-a-thon resumed once more. Goat mask man laughing as such went down, the soldier unleashed his claymore fury. Jewels breaking down, the hyena whirred up a punch. Sending the minerals flying towards the opponent, a laugh soon broke loose through the enemy's mask.

"You're going to have to try harder than that, little boy of the human realm!" the goat masked man exclaimed.

Back plates on the enemy's behind glowing with dark energy, beams of electricity zapped the chimera into submission. Static clinging to his uniform, the hyena could feel weakness throw him for a loop. Gem fragments soon adding themselves to the mix, as well, one side soon drowned out all forces around him.

Attacks drowning everything out for minutes on end, the hyena could feel his breath only get heavier. Where had this enemy come from? Were they hiding out the entire time? He had to get rid of them before they were to cause any more problems. Taking a moment to catch his breath, the early adult prepared to get on the defensive once more.

Dashing towards the enemy's backside as they laid down their next attack, the soldier aimed for the chimera let his greatsword do the talking once more. Opening created as he kept going, the enemy had been taken out of the picture after forty consecutive slashes. Denizen floating backwards towards their black hole, the minerals soon fell.

Although, such had not been the end of the crystal battlefield. Spotting multiple hooded denizens floating around their possibly created obstacles, the early adult prepared to let his blade carve deep. Enemies ganging up on him as he prepared to do so, the elements drowned the soldier three feet beneath the proverbial water.

Circle of doom taking him over for minutes on end, the hyena grit his teeth. Just where did these enemies get their power from, the crystals? He needed to get rid of the source powering them right away before defeat were to come for him. Throwing himself towards the gem deposits, everything had been cut deep.

Possible source of power soon cut away, the chimera fought back to the best of his ability. Group of goat mask robed denizens from who knows where vanquished after about seventy strikes divided between the group, the early adult let out another pant. But, the fights were not over yet.

Battles continuing as the solider kept heading back upon the westward path, a wave of fatigue flowed through the chimera. Just how many more of these enemies and their crystals were left? He needed a quick and assured strategy to take care of what remained. But, as he returned towards the edges of Poisson, and unwanted guest tagged herself into the ring.

Aigre running towards him waving her hand in the air like a child, the early adult let out a groan. What did she want from him? If she were about to drag him down into her pirate shenanigans, he was not about to engage with her on that front whatsoever. He had no time for such things. Hands continuing to flap around, shouts had come his way.

"Crewmate!! There's portals in Poisson!!" Aigre shouted at the top of her lungs. "Please help!!"

Hearing Aigre's plea, the soldier shook his head. Deal with the portals problem now when there still could have been crystals that were brought back from their mineral graves? There was no way he could attend to such right now. It had to wait. Placing his hands in front of him, the soldier signed the word later on private display.

Heading back towards the area of which he arrived, the soldier fell down upon the sand at the sight before him. Peculiar looking goat mask people sitting around in a circle holding hands and singing around their reborn black crystals, sweat decorated the chimera's face. Who were these childish robed people? But, as he thought such, they soon turned to face him.

Group of six robed goat mask people telling him he disturbed their ritual, he'll pay, the soldier placed himself into a fighting stance. A ritual? On the beach? What were these people, in some sort of magic cult? He could not allow this to go any further. Placing his blade in front of him, the chimera prepared himself for battle.

Such went nowhere fast. Enemies soon preparing a shield of water around themselves, the early adult sheathed his claymore. Were they seriously hiding themselves behind a layer of Hydro? What a poor choice. His vision, yes, it was time to summon is flower acquaintance.

But, such action of throwing down his flower familiar ever occurred. Sextet snapping their gloved fingers, a lock and chain closed down upon the chimera's Vision. Silk flower acquaintance unable to be summoned, a wave of powerlessness flowed through the soldier.

Group of six laughing amongst one another as his elemental orb remained sealed, the hyena placed his blade in front of him once more. He supposed he had no choice but to fight with his weapon. Switching the position of his legs, the early adult swung the greatsword around like a spinning top.

Water shield not breaking, the hyena could feel his breath weaken once more. Dark crystals bathing themselves with energy, a deeper wave of fatigue flowed through him. But, the early adult attempted to shake it off. He could not allow for such weakness to win. He had to bring the enemies to their robed knees.

Icy sea angel in the corner throwing a fit of rage as the goat masked denizens kept enjoying the shield life, their bubbles soon froze. Knowing such was his opportunity to strike, the soldier let out a battle cry. Defenses soon breaking as a shatter sound overtook the area, the cherubic creature kept tagging into the ring.

Ocean denizen blasting the enemies a new one, a door opened itself amongst the crowd. Blade swinging and hitting a home run as the seconds marched onward, the denizens from who knows where fell flat on their masked faces after about twenty strikes. Coming back onto their feet, however, a counterstrike took him away, for a moment.

Odd monster continuing to ally itself with the hyena, the soldier kept his unlimited bladeworks going. Enemies soon fading into the ether after one final blow, the chimera could feel any amount of remaining energy slowly leave his body. Knowing he still had crystals to cut, the early adult dragged himself forward.

Seeing multiple crystals fall down upon the ground as the defeat solidified, a wave of dizziness flowed through the chimera as he picked up the spoils. Attempting to shake it off, the chimera cut the remaining jewels out of their deposit holes. But, as he placed the final set of gems into his satchel, a returning guest came running.

"Crewmate, the portals are getting really bad now!!" Aigre shouted at the top of her lungs. "Please help!!"

But, such words never reached the hyena. Wave of dizziness only getting more intense, the world around him grew quiet. Everything getting fuzzy, the words around him had begun to muffle. Vision turning grainy, the early adult could feel himself fall backwards. Shouts coming his way unheard, his body kept tumbling.

Backside soon hitting the sand, the world spun around in a circle. Everything beginning to fade away, the soldier closed his eyes. Blackness ready to take him over as the seconds counted down faster, everything was black, silent, voided. Land of the unconscious ready to take him away, one final thought pushed him back into the world of darkness.

Had the crystals harmed him after all?

***

"I saw really scary portals
Today and yesterday!

I don't know where they came from, but they're so
Scary!!

Scary!! I
Can't go out and
Adventure with Captain Vert this way! Aaah, sissie, sisser,
Remove these scary thingies!
Yeek! But, sissie, and sisser,

They both told me:
'Huh? Aigre, um, don't worry
Over those things.
So much. They're just,
Err, visitors from afar.' Sisser said.

Please, sisser!! You're being silly!
Oh, and sissie said, 'Aigre, someone is already taking care of that.
Really, don't worry yourself over it.' But,
They're scary!!
Ah, they usually take these things seriously!
Lazy grownups!
Sissie, sisser, do you just not wanna work!

Ahhh, fine, I'll go find someone myself!
Raaaaaaaaaaah, off I go!! Oh, I know! The answer to
Everything!! My newest crewmate!!

My newest crewmate, he'll definitely help! That's the answer to
Everything! Since
All the grownups won't do anything!
Now, I leave, but
I hear sisser say. 'Cerise, Aigre is going out, Um. Surveillance her.'
Eeek! Not sisser's pet
Sea angel!! I have

Captain vert and my
Ragtag pirate crew to protect me!
Everyone, assemble!
We'll just avoid sisser's silly pet!
Make way, I'll go find our crewmate!
And I turn towards my captain who
Then promptly asks me, 'Where we headin' today kid?'
Everyone's eyes are on me!

Please, listen up, my friends! 'We're
Looking for our newest crewmate!' I exclaimed!
'Each and every one of these grownups isn't doing
Anything about these portals!
So, I'm gonna go find a responsible grownup!'
Everything claps, yay!

Here ye, here ye!
Exiting our home with my pirate pals, I start
Looking for our newest
Pirate crewmate!

May he help get rid of these super scary portals!!
Even if I have to ask twice!!"

Coming to the next morning somewhere unknown to him, the soldier swore he could see Kali and a sea angel from the ocean peak their heads around the corner of the room. Seeing such, a wave of confusion flowed through the chimera. Where had he been taken to, and why was there a water creature inside a building? One of the three sea lion sisters stepping towards him, the early adult at up from the bed.

"Um, don't mind the extra head. That's just our surveillance pet, Cerise," Kali said. She then quickly changed the subject. "So, you're awake? Aigre came to us saying, 'he might be dead!' But, I told her, 'Uh, he's breathing, I think. Probably." She then took a deep breath. "Either way, um, you should go outside. Bain says someone wants to see you, or something."

Feeling his strength return to him as he removed him from the bed, the soldier exited the abode. Finding himself in Poisson, Bain waited for him outside the door. Leading the way towards a large ship in the corner, the Demoiselle awaited him. Giving him a sharp look, her hands were soon on her waist.

"There's a peculiar portal beside the waterfall, that's stranger than all the others that appeared here yesterday. Monsieur ---------- would like for you--" the Demoiselle started to say, but she had soon been cut off as Aigre ran onto the ship.

"That's where I was trying to take him yesterday, -----!" Aigre exclaimed. She then grabbed her crewmates hand. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Yeah, kiddo, she was lookin' everywhere for you, scallywag!" She then turned her head towards no one. "You tell him, Bleu!" She then turned her head back towards her crewmate. "Let's go!!"

Dragged off towards the portal, the hyena did not attempt to put up any sort of fight. He knew he had to investigate the portals. Such had been his other mission assigned to him. Blinding light overtaking him as he stepped foot into the vortex, another world awaited him on the other side.

Finding himself in a large mystical forest with a huge willow tree, a chill dropped down the chimera's spine at the sight before him. Leaves on the large vegetative creature yellow and black, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. Was this tree dying? He could barely feel any life going through it.

But, the sea lion, or mermaid rather, and he were not alone. Spotting Gwendolyn and Lonan in the corner wielding crossbows made entirely from hardened bird feathers launching heavily modified steeled up feathers to match, the hyena's knees buckled. Had he stepped into bird territory again? He had to leave right away. But, it had already been too late, Lonan had spotted him.

Hawk man soon waving at him as if they were well acquainted, sweat poured down the hyena's brow. What was going on, why was he waving at him like that? But, he supposed he was putting up walls a moment ago for nothing. Not every single bird chimera was territorial.

"Black fish steak bro, nice to see you again!" Lonan greeted, waving. "You came here, too? You gonna heal the sick willow tree with Gwen and I?" But, he had soon been elbowed.

"Gwendolyn, not Gwen!" Gwendolyn shouted. "We don't need anyone's help!"

"But, gf, we can't even solve the puzzle!" Lonan responded, rubbing his sides. "We could use their help!"

Hearing the word puzzle, Aigre could feel the world become sunny again. Ooh, puzzles, her most favoritest thing in the whole wide world. Birdy man did not need to say anything more. Where were the puzzles? She wanted to be right in front of it and solve it right now.

"Puzzles? Ooooh, I looooooooove puzzles!" Aigre exclaimed with peppering excitement. "Where are they???" Ants had begun to flow into her pants.

Childish woman going on about how much she liked puzzles a lot, Gwendolyn slapped her palm across her forehead. And just who brought this kid here? Children were more annoying than all the men in the world. She should go right on home and leave all the problem solving to the mature, responsible adults. She should send Lonan home, too while she was at it.

"Who is this kid?" Gwendolyn asked, irritated tone in voice.

Hearing the heavy level of doneness in Gwendolyn's voice, the hyena let out a sigh. Should he just be honest and tell her Aigre dragged him here? He supposed he would have to do so. Not wishing to communicate with spoken words, the chimera placed his hand out in front of him. Signing the words she dragged him here, the soldier let out a sigh.

Seeing the continued look of irritation on Gwendolyn's face, the early adult returned his hands in front of him. Signing the words please put up with her for now, the early adult looked the bird woman in the eyes. Looking the other way, the hyena shook his head. This was going to be a very long day.

"Fine, I'll put up with her," Gwendolyn responded, irritation heavily evident in her voice. "But, I won't do so willingly."

Bird duo leading the way towards a northern path, the soldier could not help but wonder. What kind of puzzles were about to await Aigre and he? Whatever it was that was about to happen, he knew he had to be ready for anything. Cutting through multiple pathways for minutes, the stage to the puzzle soon called out to everyone.

Lead towards an area with strange musical instruments with bubbles over them, a heavy wave of confusion flowed through the solder. Just what was it that he was looking at? What puzzle was there to be had here? He could not make heads nor tails of what was in front of him. But, such had not been the only oddity.

Spotting a peculiar soapy bubble in the corner, the confusion ate the hyena up like a plate of macaroni and cheese. Why were there bubbles lying around? What kind of puzzle was this? He supposed he didn't blame Gwendolyn and Lonan for not being able to figure it out. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted.

"Yay, bubbles are fun!" Aigre exclaimed in an excitable tone.

Watching as Aigre summoned another soapy bubble onto the puzzle field, the early adult tilted his head. Why did she just do that? Was she just playing a game? But, the chimera shook his head. She said she liked puzzles, surely, she knew what she was doing. It was best to not judge a book by its cover.

Watching the annoying kid summon a bubble, Gwendolyn slapped her hand across her face and shook her head. What was this brat doing? She just came over here to play. Why was she even here? She should just go back on home and go play somewhere else. There was no time for this right now.

Seeing four eyes bring out a bubble, Lonan scratched the back of his ear. Was this lady kid playing around? Gwen definitely wasn't going to have anything nice to say about that. But the two of them were about to eat their own thoughts for breakfast, in a matter of moments.

Aigre soon holding down a large watery octopus pistol shot, the bubble had been pushed towards the original one that had been in the area. Two soon becoming one, the next order of business had reached puzzletown. Soapy ball soon moved towards the middle, round two had soon begun.

Sea lion, or mermaid, rather letting the bubble pop straight in the center, the instruments went off one after another. Everything resonating with one another, a misty branch in the corner had soon made itself known amongst the forest of the ill willow tree. But, before she could see such, Aigre ran off towards the south.

"There's more puzzles, I just know it!!" Aigre shouted, running faster. But, as everyone ran after her, a profound statement stepped up to the plate.

"We can't let some womanchild show us up like this!" Gwendolyn shouted, running.

"Aww, come on, babe, let her have fun," Lonan replied. But, he had soon been elbowed in the hip again.

"A womanchild is taking all our glory!" Gwendolyn exclaimed. "Doesn't that annoy you?"

"Not really, babe," Lonan said, shaking his head. "Why are you gettin' so gung ho about it?"

Hearing Gwendolyn rant and rave on and on about how they were here first, so they should be the ones getting all the glory, not some kid, the hyena let out a sigh. What was with this competitive attitude? She was being quite unreasonable right now. But, the chimera kept his mouth shut. There was no reason for him to say anything.

Aigre already getting to work summoning another bubble, the hyena turned towards Gwendolyn. Entire body twitching as she watched someone else do what she declared her time to shine, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. Was she going to continue to act like this was her time to shine only? She really needed to let such feelings go.

Bubbles soon combining into one, the young woman soon took out her scythe. But, such bubble pop had been placed at the wrong angle entirely. Aigre whimpering to herself in the corner throwing a pity party with her invisible pirate crew, the chimera stepped up to the plate.

Finding a strange device in the corner hosting a ball of water, the soldier soon claimed a piece of such. Finding himself blessed with the power of the octopus on land, the early adult prepared himself for takeoff. Bubble soon reappearing, the second one had soon been located.

Combining the two into one, the early adult attempted to place the bubble in the center of the instrument ensemble. Letting the bubble hit the instrument ensemble, not all of them had resounded. Bubbles resetting themselves once more, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera.

Realizing the bubble had to hit every single instrument not missing even one, the soldier attempted to aim carefully. Failures one after another rolling the dice, the hyena studied the ground around him. Perhaps, just maybe he had to position it towards the instruments furthest away? He supposed it was worth a shot.

Every single instrument soon sounding off, another foggy tree branch added itself to the mix. Aigre picking herself up from her quick down, the party of four had begun to head upon the eastern pathway. Third bubble puzzle even more precise than the last one, multiple retries had taken place before the correct solution was found.

Heading off towards the last ensemble amongst the four, Aigre made quick work of the final puzzle. Misty tree branches done and over with, the soldier swore he saw a group of shadowy people surrounding her. But, the soldier snapped himself out if it. Him, being able to see Aigre's childhood friends? Impossible. He was just tired.

"Aigre, there be some scallywags by Loch Uraina planting those nasty crystals there!" Navigator Bleu shouted for only Aigre's ears to hear.

"Thank, Bleu, I'll let them know!" Aigre exclaimed. She then changed the pitch of her voice. "Stay safe out there, kiddo." She then turned her head off towards no one. "I will private Jaune!" She then changed the pitch of her voice again. "Split the treasure with us, ya hear?" She turned her head once more. "Of course I will! Don't I always??" But, as she had gone off by herself, the hyena could feel breath on his ear.

"Black fish steak bro, who's she talking to?" Lonan asked.

Inquiry coming his way, the soldier drew a blank. What could he even say in a situation like this? Aigre was talking to her imaginary friends? Maybe it was best to leave the part about them not being real out of it. Placing his hands in front of him, the hyena spelled out the word friend with his fingers. Looking into Lonan's eyes, he had a serious expression on his face.

"Bro, can you see her friends?" Lonan asked.

Hearing such question, the early adult froze for a moment. Why was Lonan asking such a daring question? But, he knew it was a waste of time lying that he could see them when he could not. Shaking his head, the soldier could see Gwendolyn in the corner give multiple annoyed looks one after another.

"So, she's a womanchild with loneliness syndrome?" Gwendolyn asked, annoyed. "She's crazy! Send her back home now!"

Gwendolyn layering on the insensitive frosting onto her rude, competitive cake, the final straw had broken. Who did this bird lady think she was using such language to speak about someone like that? So what she had this supposed syndrome she probably made up. Did she have to be so rude about it? He knew he could not stay silent any longer. His words, he had to use them.

"She's not crazy. Don't say that," Siorc said, voice low. "If you're only going to say rude remarks, you can go back home instead." He took a deep breath, giving a glare. "So, cut it out, and think before you speak."

Gwendolyn shutting herself right up after such exchange, the hyena could feel his chest grow cold. Had he said too much? Maybe he shouldn't have used his words after all. Bird woman's face growing dark for a moment, everything remained quiet for a few minutes longer. Silence soon breaking, her voice soon came back.

"I guess you're right," Gwendolyn finally responded after five minutes. "Sorry for being insensitive." But, there was a heavy feeling of reluctance in such apology.

"Guys, why are you all standing there?? We have to go to Loch Uraina!" Aigre shouted, running.

Aigre leading the way towards Loch Uraina, the soldier could hardly believe his eyes at the sight before him. Pitch black crystal deposits all the way along the lakeside forest, a sea of questions flowed through the chimera. How did these get here? Something wasn't adding up. But, he knew he had to act fact and get rid of the crystals now before it was too late.

Guided towards the northern pathway, multiple gem deposits awaited the hyena. Crystals protruding with a sinister aura, the early adult allowed a gulp to escape the esophagus. Was it just him, or had these crystals been ever worse than the ones he had encountered yesterday?

Aigre unsheathing a scythe from behind her, and bird duo taking out their homemade crossbows, the early adult removed the diamond cutter from his satchel. Knowing that, at any given moment, the jewel deposits would shut themselves out with a glass box shield, the soldier prepared himself for the inevitable.

Crystals ripped out from their deposits one after another with all of everyone's efforts combined, the soldier wiped sweat off his brow. Was it just his imagination, or had the crystals near the lake been far more sturdier than the ones he had encountered in the Belleau Region yesterday?

Heading onto the southern pathway, the next crystal battle was ready to begin. Everyone putting in all their efforts combined, a shield soon came crashing down upon the battlefield. Glassy box blocking off every weapon possible, the early adult held back the urge to sigh. It was time for the gravity bracelet again.

Glass shields shattered to pieces along with the crystals, the party of three had begun to head upon the eastern pathway. Quartet continuing to bring their all to the fight against jewels and dark energy alike, the soldier could feel his energy begin to drain down into a puddle of nothing.

Moving onwards towards the western pathway in the forest, the semi-finals of the crystal destruction competition let out its roar amongst it all. But, such had been short lived as the shields brought their counter to the table once more. Small scale tremors soon shaking the ground for minutes on end, the crystals shattered.

Final set of mineral deposits destroyed in the northeastern section of the forest, the hyena turned his head towards the lake in the corner. Spotting a strange floating water ball in the corner keeping itself suspended, the early adult tilted his head. Just what was that thing? But, there was no time for questions.

Monster emerging from the lake as the last crystal had been bagged and put away, the chimera walked fifteen steps backwards. What had just emerged from the large suspended ball in the corner? Snake like water mimic creatures letting out a roar, the chimera prepared himself to throw down a flower acquaintance. There was no time for thinking. He had to fight now.

But, as he prepared to toss down his Windwheel Aster familiar, the goat masked robed person popped up out of nowhere. Anonymous person snapping their gloved fingers, chains sealed the soldier's vision once more. Elemental powers taken away once more, the early adult's eyes twitched with a fervor.

Stranger's Vision Hunt Decree taking his only currently available elemental option, the chimera placed the diamond slasher in front of him. Knowing a long fight was ahead of him, the early adult attempted to keep his cool. The monster was made of water. It was no one's fault if his attacks did not land.

Serpentine water monster done and dealt with after about twenty attacks combined between the party of four, a wave of uselessness flowed through the chimera. Without his elemental powers, was he even really useful? But, the soldier knew he couldn't let himself get down. But, his thoughts were quickly interrupted.

"Black fish steak bro, our client said we gotta go underwater to clear out some tumor underneath the willow tree," Lonan said. "You coming with?" But, he had soon been elbowed for the third time.

"Can't you let us just have one job to ourselves without feeding our competition?" Gwendolyn asked, irritated tone of voice.

"Gf, what's with you today? Why you makin' this into some sort of contest?" Lonan asked. "Let black fish steak bro take care of this. He givin' me the impression he cares about nature a lot."

"Ugh, who cares about that? But, whatever. You're not going to back down," Gwendolyn responded, irritated tone in voice. She then turned towards her competition. "Come with us, if you want, but don't say I didn't warn you about the legend of the undersea gazelles. If they eat you, I couldn't care less. I'm not saving you."

Hearing Lonan mention something about a tumor underneath the willow tree, tears rolled down the soldier's cheek. The weeping willow of the lake had a tumor? Wasn't that a serious cell killing illness that could kill? Was he really using the right word to describe the tree's sickness?

Gwendolyn yapping about some sort of underwater gazelles, the hyena shook his head. Was she just making something up to scare him? If such were the case, it wasn't working. Aigre hopping down into the lake almost immediately, the early adult removed his diving equipment from his satchel.

Bird duo going on ahead of him, the chimera had soon been locked up into he fat, blubbery suit. Mind and diving suit syncing up with one another, the party of three in front of him had already been extremely far ahead. Diving suit pushing him through a small underwater cave, the next order of business soon awaited.

Large, pink growth underneath the water hooked onto the walls pulsating as if it had a heartbeat, the soldier could feel his own rhythm inside his chest go off kilter. This was the thing making he willow tree up on the surface ill? How terrifying. He needed to get rid of his horrific disease right this instant.

Aigre soon pointing at the corner of poisonous bacteria floating in the water as the tumor kept on pulsating, the hyena pressed the corresponding button on his glove. Holding and pressing for minutes on end, the disgusting germs had gone from purple to green in a matter of moments.

Germs removed from the picture, Gwendolyn and Lonan removed their handmade crossbows from their pockets. Aiming for the strings across the wall, one had looked ready to be taken out of the equation. But, such progress had soon flowed backwards as the contaminated bacteria struck back.

Aigre soon taking care of the second round of germs, everyone readied to knock off one of the strings containing the illness. Pulsating monster of an issue taking a huge hit from such destruction, the defenses had soon been ready to kick themselves in. Jellyfish swimming their way out, the fight was on.

Obstacles quickly taken out of the picture, the second string of multiple had soon been severed by the mermaid's scythe. Root of all the willow tree's current problems continuing to get weaker, the third round of contaminated bacteria took to the stage. Getting his glove ready, the hyena stepped up to the plate.

Everyone destroying the third of the fourth string together, more monsters had soon thrown themselves upon the battlefield. Undersea crabs with shields up, the early adult let out a sigh. Was this how it was going to be? It was time to bring down the jellyfish bomb.

Aquatic enemies exploded in seconds, another round of germy poison circled around the water. Everyone doing their duty to destroy such, everything had begun to get weaker as the final lines of defense was done and dealt with. Swimming towards the final string, the last legs the tumor had to stand on knocked on the door.

Fourth and final string breaking apart as the party of four let all their remaining prowess out, the pink ball of doom continued to pump onward. Seeing such, the early adult tossed a jellyfish bomb towards the core. Letting such denotate, everything readied itself to crumble into pieces.

Root of all the willow tree's problems soon gone, everyone returned themselves to the surface. Willow trees in the area all blooming with blue foliage, a wave of bewilderment swam through the chimera's head. Was this the tree's true colors? How beautiful, if such were truly the case. But, he could not help but feel something was missing. But, a voice soon brought him back down to reality.

"The Willow Tree's all better now, so our job here is done," Lonan said, turning his back. "See ya, black fish steak bro. Let's work together again another time."

Bird duo leaving, the early adult readied to retire for the day. But, before he could do so, the soldier turned towards Aigre. Eyes wandering for a few moments, she soon grabbed his arm. Locking onto him, the hyena could feel a wave of discomfort. What was she getting all frisky for all of a sudden?

"I have something to show you!" Aigre exclaimed in an excited tone.

Aigre dragging him off, the early adult let out a sigh. Just where was she taking him right now? If it was related to in any way to her pirate crew, he wanted no part of such right now. But, he knew it was not a good idea to utter the two letter rejection. Such would be a bad idea, guaranteed.

Soon finding himself beside the place known as the Rusty Rudder, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Why did Aigre take him here? She definitely should not have. Womanchild dragging him onto the ship, multiple men soon glared at her all at once. Drunkards giving her the stink eye, as well, shouts had begun to echo.

"Why are you here again?" One of the members of the Rusty Rudder asked in a rude tone. "How many times do we have to tell you that we don't care about your stupid make believe pirate games? Go away!"

"Meanie!" Aigre cried, running.

Aigre clamping down on his wrist and speeding up her run cycle towards a portal, the hyena could feel his breath get taken away. Why was she rushing so quickly towards the vortex? Couldn't she slow down just a little? There was no rush. But, the hyena kept himself quiet. She was just upset. He needed to let it go.

Portal dropping the party of two in Fort Carybdis Ruin, the hyena blinked of bewilderment at the sight of more crystal deposits everywhere. How did even more of these get here? Minerals not looking particularly strong, the hyena took a deep breath. This would be done and over with quickly.

But, as the hyena cut the crystals, the soldier could feel his energy levels get lower and lower. What was going on, why were these gems stealing his vitality from him? Dizziness coming back from the grave as he kept on cutting, the hyena could feel himself about ready to fall over as he sliced the final set of jewels. But, as the world begun to spin, a muffled voice broke through.

"Ahhh, no, please don't almost die again!!" Aigre cried. "I'll take you home with me so you can rest!"

Aigre carrying him as if he were a paperweight, the soldier closed his eyes. How was she able to lift him up? He was taller than her? But, his mind soon blinked out of existence for multiple minutes. Regaining consciousness for a brief moment as a spiky blob tucked him in under the covers, one final thought encased his fading human brain into a sea of vines.

What's wrong with those crystals?

***

"Are those crystals I have to collect delusions? No. That's not it.
But, there's something not right about them, for sure.
Yes, there's something off.
Something wrong.
Something troubling.
Are they taking my energy?
Looks like they are. I feel so tired, dizzy.

Cannot shake off this deep seeded feeling of doom,
Really. Why is this happening. Are the abyss gazelles behind this?
Yes, I suspect so. I definitely
See that as a possibility.
There is just something incredibly off
About all this. There is no way that this isn't their doing.
Looks like this was just another one of their
Schemes. This feels a bit weaker, though, compared to their many

Plots to get their
Revenge against me.
Or maybe this is just a testing ground,
But, I cannot take my chances, cannot
Look the other way.
Every crystal need to be destroyed,
Maimed, taken out of the picture."

Upon waking up the next morning, the Agent soon barged into the sea lion trio's home. Informed he needed to go off to the tower in the east to collect even more crystals, the early adult's eyebrows twitched. Just how many of these jewels did Her Majesty need at this point? Surely, by now, he had to have collected plenty.

Raising himself from the bed, the soldier wobbled a bit. Shaking his head rapidly, the chimera attempted to shake the remaining amounts of dizziness away. Knowing he had to make haste and leave for the tower right now, the chimera attempted to exit the sea lion's abode, but the door had soon been blocked by two of the three sisters.

"Wait. I'm going with you," Bain said in a slightly demanding tone. "I don't think you should be going out and doing this alone."

"Don't you think that all of us going with you would, um, lessen the burden?" Kali asked. "You, uh, shouldn't go there alone, I don't think."

Knowing that if he told them no they would continue to insist upon such, the soldier simply nodded. Bain soon moving towards the kitchen after such agreement, a quick fish breakfast had been wolfed down. Group of three exiting the household, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Was Aigre not coming today?

Group heading east for a long while, the hyena could not help but wonder. The crystals, just what was it that was making them so dangerous? Could they have just been very strong delusions that he was gaining temporary amounts of powers from in exchange for his life energy? If such were the case, he was toast if they were such a thing.

Reaching the tower after about an hour, an overwhelming sense of feeling small overtook the chimera. The tower, was it always this big up close? Maybe it was a sense of perspective. Spotting Gwendolyn and Lonan already inside the tower, the bird duo soon flew the coop.

"Small world, black fish steak bro!" Lonan exclaimed. "Cleaning the tower, too?" But, he had soon been elbowed after what felt like the fourth time in the chapter of his current moments.

"How many times are you going to call him that?" Gwendolyn asked, rolling her eyes. "It's annoying."

"Yo, gf, what was that for?" Lonan asked, rubbing his sides. "He doesn't even seem to mind me calling him that!"

Gwendolyn ranting and raving about he's just being an annoying man again, the soldier shook his head. He guessed he didn't really care if Lonan called him black fish steak bro. The name had already stuck, despite how juvenile it felt to be called such a thing. Why did Gwendolyn always feel the need to make things about it annoying her? But, he knew he would be wasting his breath using his words again. Throwing everything he had to say back into his pocket, everyone readied themselves to enter the tower.

Party of five ready for action, everyone soon dropped down to the bottom floor of the tower. Crystals everywhere the eye could see things had begun to worsen. Multiple robots guarding the mineral deposits, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Was there about to be a difficult battle ready and waiting for him?

Robotic fish swimming about on air as the minutes droned about, the bird duo soon removed their handmade crossbows. Sea lion sisters removing their scythes as well, the chimera added his borrowed greatsword to the mix. Knowing his vision would just be locked away by a force, the hyena knew it was best to continue on with physical combat.

Mechanical enemies taken out one after another with multiple attempts taken, the crystals in the area soon broke out of their encasem*nts. Collecting the spoils, the group of five soon moved towards the second floor, but such flight upward soon proved to be more difficult than the last.

Second floor within the tower covered with multiple mines ready to explode upon being stepped on, the soldier could feel his heart skip more than five beats. Who put those here? Whoever had done so had the intention to harm someone, for sure. Tiptoeing around the explosives of horror, the chimera's diamond slasher was ready.

Blade taking a long time to rip out the crystals from their encasem*nt, the third floor of the tower had soon been more or less the same. Bird duo giving him side glances as if he had grown four heads, the soldier pointed to the ground beneath him. Minefields soon spoken for, Gwendolyn and Lonan flew out of the way of such issues.

Bain and Kali moving over to the side, as well, the chimera destroyed the crystal deposits with as much of his energy that remained inside him. Mines not triggering, a wave of bewilderment flowed through the hyena. Were they just there for a quick scare? Whoever did this was terrible at this.

But, as the group headed for the fourth floor, a group of steel monsters placed themselves in front of the mineral deposits. Bain and Kali bringing down their anchor of fire and tridents of electricity, the early adult attempted with all of his energy that remained to summon his flower friend. But, such fell flat on his face for the third time in three days.

Elemental energy blocked by some external forces, the soldier snapped his fingers in defeat. Was was it only him who couldn't use his Vision today? It was almost as if, such obstacle was placed to serve purpose towards a story to limit himself from being called a certain name awarded to perfect people.

Bird duo and sea lion sister pair destroying the robot onslaught, the soldier crashed the tip of his blade into the remaining crystals. Collecting the drops and throwing them into his satchel, one final floor remained. But the problems on the fifth remained the same as the one on the fourth.

Everything feeling as though it were looping, the soldier broke through the crystal encasem*nts once again. But, as he had done so, the soldier swore he could feel hands on his back shove him through something. Everyone else soon being shoved as well, a new room had soon been upon everyone.

Soon finding himself inside a large locked corridor, a room littered with masked robed denizens patrolling the area and crystals galore locked into the hyena's damaged field of vision. Soon falling down to the bottom floor deep within, the doors were soon locked shut. Watching as Bain patrolled the area, she soon gave the up on what was down.

"This door will probably open if we turn these dials on the wall," Bain said. "I'll do it."

Bain turning the dials one after another for minutes on end, the soldier swore he could see the crystals in the room only get weaker with very single turn. Puzzle solved after six twists, the mineral deposits broke themselves out of their own prison as if kicked out of there.

Everyone ascending to the next floor afterwards, another puzzle soon kicked itself into motion. Bain solving it in less than ten minutes, the early adult could feel a wave of fascination flow through him. Bain was definitely a master of puzzles. Could this have been where Aigre got it from?

But, as the crystals made themselves known, a rancid scent entered the area. Robed denizen laughing and saying they hoped he liked his poisonous gift, Lonan soon let his crossbow do the talking. Enemy floating away and attempting to dodge for minutes on end, the tables turned backwards.

Enemy laughing at saying he bets it hurts to breathe right now, the soldier placed his hand on his chest. This monster, just what did he do to the crystals? Air only getting thicker, the soldier prepared to tap himself out of the ring. But, a voice threw itself out there.

"Are you really giving up over a little threat?" Gwendolyn asked, annoyed. "Just plug your nose! Archons, men are so annoying."

Plugging up his nose, the soldier unleashed his diamond cutter attack upon the enemy. Opposing force eliminated after everyone's strikes reached towards the fifty mark, the villain of the hour had become one with nature. Noxious crystals soon pocketed and removed, everyone soon continued onward.

Tower all cleansed, the party of five readied themselves for the final underwater mission. Diving equipment soon on, everyone jumped. Landing in the water bed slightly afar, the quintet soon dived downward. But, immediately upon doing so, crystals of far different properties from every single one before blew everything out of the water.

Mineral deposits radiating with some sort of dragon energy, the hyena's eyes opened wide. Who coated these in the energy of dragons? Whoever had done this, they were trying too hard at this point to make something a challenge. Getting his glove ready, and everyone else ready for action, the destruction was ready.

Bain and Kali's scythe not doing anything to the deposit of crystals, the soldier tried with his aquatic blade. But, such had done nothing, either. Everyone else attempting to destroy such with their various weapons, as well, nothing budged for minutes on end. Continuing to attempt to break them, a question threw itself out into the sea.

"Why are these crystals encased in dragon energy?" Bain asked, bemused.

No answer coming, the early adult gazed at the buttons on his glove. Figuring the octopus gun shooter was his only option, the hyena pressed the button. Crystals breaking after twelve attempts, the chimera let out a sigh. Whoever placed these minerals had made the far too hard to break.

Soon finding an area near a hidden fort, more crystals soon awaited in a room that was not submerged. Were these ones about to take hours to destroy, as well? But such had been proven wrong, in an instant. Slime bombs popping off with Lonan's crossbow, the gems were no more in a matter of moments.

Soon returning back to the sea, everyone moved towards the eastern areas of the largest lake in all of Fontaine. Everyone doing their part to get rid of the crystal deposits of many known dangers, everyone had begun to sweat up a storm. Was the water getting hotter, all of a sudden?

But as cleanup kept on commencing, two faces he did not want to see swam on over. Vidame and Domini rapidly approaching his location alongside the diver boy, the hyena prepared himself for undersea violence once again. Knowing such was about to come, the soldier would not surrender. Couldn't these two, just this once, not accuse him of something? But, he supposed that was a pipe dream.

Seeing Ritchie Rich surround himself with the poisonous crystals he definitely dropped down into their home, Vidame was seeing red. How dare this person still come back here after all that he's done to cause this place great amounts of harm. He needed to be taught a lesson again.

Watching Ritchie Rich pretend like he was a good samaritan destroying the dangerous little rocks he definitely brought down here, Domini readied his chain whip. Didn't he know by now he was never welcome down here? The peace treaty was dead six times over at this point, it was time for violence. Slamming down the chain upon the rich fiend's arms, the bludgeoning began.

"Stop polluting the oceans, Ritchie Rich!" Domini shouted, whirring up his chain whip. But, an immediate response had come his way.

"Bro, calm down," Lonan said, placing his hands in a stop motion upon the water. "He didn't do that."

"He definitely did!" Vidame shouted. "Don't go and defend him!"

The early adult rolled his eyes towards the underwater ceiling. These two penguins, why did they always feel like they had to blame him for something? Was their deep seeded feelings of loathing him causing them to paint him as the most evil villain known to humanity and chimera kind? Absolutely ridiculous.

Not giving the pesky penguin duo any more fuel to the fire, the soldier swam off towards the diver boy. Knowing that, no matter what he said or did, they would continue to accuse him for crimes he did not partake in, the soldier brought down further crystals to their deathbed. But, as the final set of minerals were destroyed, everything broke.

"You should watch out," the diver boy said, words monotone. "There's a portal over there."

Pitch black vortex opening up almost immediately upon being told, the soldier could feel his heart skip four beats. There was still one portal left? How did it get towards the bottom of the ocean? Having his diving suit thrust him forward towards it, Domini soon let out his chain whip again. But, such had been a big mistake.

Everyone thrown through the portal, a dark, foreboding room awaited everyone. Large, expansive room with dark purple seawater, the everyone's faces had almost turned green. Bain, Kali, and even the pesky penguin duo shaking like a leaf, a realization had soon washed over the chimera.

The entire room was primordial seawater.

Coming to such realization, fear nibbled on the hyena's eardrum. They were in a room with primordial seawater. A death sentence, destruction to all Fontaine born people. Bain, Kali, Vidame, Domini, and Gwendolyn and Lonan, weren't they all born and raised in Fontaine? They were all done for if they went anywhere near such a thing. Dissolved into nothing, puddles.

But, as the party of six in front of him stepped forward, no one dissolved. Seeing such, an array of questions flowed through him. Was this water really primordial sea water? Maybe he had jumped to a few conclusions. Crystals everywhere in the area, the group had begun the destruction. But, as the final crystal broke, a predictable set of faces showed up.

Abyssal gazelles showing themselves, the hyena crossed his arms across his waist. Why were these two here now? Were they the ones behind the dark crystal incident? Seeing them within the dungeon, such fact simmered for a moment. It had to have been these two, there was no one else it would have been.

"Thank you for taking the time to play our game!" Izzet exclaimed sarcastically. "Have fun?"

Hearing the abyssal gazelle reveal himself, it had hit the soldier now more than ever. These two, they had definitely been responsible, without a shadow of doubt. Who did these two think they were dropping down crystals from the abyss? Did they ever stop to think about what consequences such would bring?

"So, uh, were you the ones who dropped down those crystals?" Kali asked, but a laugh soon came her way.

"Yes, that's right!" Kelebek exclaimed. "You set up those crystals!"

"Huh, um, what?" Kali asked, scratching her head. "No, I didn't."

The hyena shook his head as the gazelles revealed themselves. Was this their idea of revenge? How incredibly annoying of them. This was their most ridiculous stunt yet, throwing crystals down everywhere. There had to have been a line that had to be drawn at this point. But, as he went through the notions on condemnation, one of the abyssal gazelles stepped up to the plate.

"Have fun with our last gift!" Izzet said, raising their hand towards the sky. "Nyahaha, better hurry, or the primordial seawater will dissolve you all! Tick tock, tick tock!"

Small scale explosion overtaking the area, a large crystalline serpentine monster added itself to the battlefield. Creature letting out a roar, everyone had gotten on the offensive. Scythes, crossbows, chain whip and claymore attempting to work together, for a moment, the party of seven let out battle cries.

But, the battle had only gotten more potent as the nonexistent clock struck. Shockwaves overtaking the area, the hyena fell down into the seawater. Waters burning him, the soldier let out a scream. Hurry, everyone needed to hurry, or everyone would dissolve.

Everyone ramping up their defenses, slowly, but surely, the crystal dragon had begun to weaken, Gwendolyn and Lonan bringing their bird powers to the mix, a surprise amongst them all overtook the battlefield. Vidame and Domini lunging down with their penguin talons shortly after, the soldier was given the opportunity for the final blow.

Knowing now was his chance to use his shark teeth to his advantage, the early adult let down his chompers. Coarse crystal nibbled on with a heavy amount of ferocity, the hyena kept gnawing further. Beast losing will as he kept going, the soldier let his biters dig in one last time.

Serpentine crystal monster looking ready to burn away, Bain threw her anchor of fire towards the opponent. Creature blowing up into smithereens, the soldier blinked. The power of cooperative efforts was the strongest force of them all. Everyone running towards the corridor's exit, time was ticking, but one last bitter pill had been tossed the chimera's way.

"We're not finished with you!" Izzet shouted.

"You will get his revenge!" Kelebek screamed. "Just he waits! It's coming soon!"

Abyssal gazelles swearing revenge for what felt like the tenth time, the soldier rolled his eyes as he threw himself through the portal. Weren't they getting tired of saying that all the time? They needed to invest their time in a different hobby. Portal throwing everyone except Vidame and Domini back to Poisson, confusion loomed over the chimera.

Bain and Kali letting out deep yawns and readying to head for their house, a heavy amount of temporary farewells had been said. Bird duo heading out of the area, as well, one final person said their goodbyes. Sea Lion duo yawning up a storm, the two retired to their quarters. But, as they had done such, Aigre soon stepped out.

Final sea lion, or mermaid rather, thanking him for yesterday, the soldier tilted his head. Why was she thanking him? But, he supposed she meant letting her do the puzzles she wanted to do. Wave of tiredness soon overtaking him, as well, the chimera staged his exit.

Agent waiting for him beside the ladder near Poisson, the early adult blinked. Had he been waiting here the entire time? Subordinate soon yanking the satchel off his backside, a loud count had soon begun. Hearing such, a wave of unease flowed through him. If even one singular black crystal was missing, he's dead.

"You did excellent work, soldier," the Agent said, pride evident in his voice. "You are dismissed. Go back to Snezhnaya, and get some rest."

Dismissal granted, the soldier removed the teleport waypoint proxy map from his back pocket. Military barracks waypoint highlighted, the chimera closed his eyes. Walking through the icy cold hallways, the soundproof room had been reached within fifteen minutes of walking.

Ready to fall asleep at any second, the chimera removed his weaponized hairpins and earrings. Uniform soon removed as well, the hyena slumped into the uncomfortable bed. Glasses put aside, the chimera closed his eyes as soon his head hit the pillow. But, as the world of sleep were about to take him away, one final thought poked the active shark grooves in his brain.

Just how much more were the abyssal gazelles going to tamper with before they were satisfied?

Chapter 15: Research Institute Phantom Thief 1: Experiments Sieged

Chapter Text

"Really, Your Majesty, a heist?
Even I'm starting to think
She's just ordering I do anything and
Everything now.
At this point, I'm convinced this is just a distraction
Ripe for the picking.
Couldn't she
Have picked something more practical?

I can't believe this, there's
No way I could perform a heist. I am not as
Stealthy as I seem.
There is no way I can do this,
I know I cannot.
This won't end well.
Ultimately, failure awaits me.
This is the worst order of them all.
Everything is adding to zero.

Perhaps this will be a wakeup for
Her Majesty.
As this is her most ridiculous order yet.
No way will this help her in any way.
Taking from people?
Or their research?
Maybe reevaluate this.

Though, I know she won't,
However, so I am,
I am becoming a thief.
Even so, I don't have a choice.
For her orders are absolute.

So, here I go.
It begins my career as an
Obvious thief who will be caught
Right at the stroke of midnight.
Cannot help but feel this will earn me a ticket

Right in the Fortress of Meropide.
Especially considering what I am doing. But, I'm
Probably overthinking. Yes, I'm
Overthinking. Surely, she has a strategy.
Right, she definitely has a strategy.
There has to be something
I am missing.
No, there isn't, but
Guess I'll find out.

For now, do as I am told
Or I'll die. I must
Remember, be diligent, do my

Duty. Don't shirk work, that is the
Ultimate key. Even
Though I do not agree with this order, my opinion does not matter.
Yes, that's right it doesn't matter.

After all, I am nothing more than a
Little rook on the chessboard. A
Rook, ready to be checkmated.
I am nothing more than a tool, a pawn. This is just a
Game. And,
Her Majesty is winning.
The board is moving.

The board is advancing.
Here's to yet
Another day of duties.
The heist begins.

So, I mustn't complain,
Or question anything. That's the
Ultimatum. Stay silent,
No questions.
Don't complain.
Evidently, it's better this way.
Don't say anything.

Quell my concerns.
Unleash my work mode.
It has to be this way
That is the goal to survival.
Even if I find all of this

Ridiculous, I need to squash that.
I need to throw all those
Deep feelings away.
I am nothing more than a soldier, the
Chess piece on the playing field.
Unless I mess up, this
Long match will continue
Over and over
Unless I mess up this
Stagnant game will never end.

However, I can't mess up.
One disappointment, and I will be
No more.
Even one singular
Slip up, and
There will be another bullet
Lodged inside me.
Yes, no more mistakes

No more disappointment
Or reasons for

The wrath of
Her Majesty.
Ah, who am I kidding?
Nothing like that will happen.
Keep going. Keep working.
Silence is key."

Four days have passed since the hyena cut and collected black crystals and dealt with the portals around Fontaine. Nothing of especial happenstance occurred. Business affairs in Liyue continuing to grow stronger with every given moment, nothing had been out of the ordinary.

The sound of morning alarm bells struck with a curdling shriek. As the alarm bells kept their rampage going, hundreds of Fatui soldiers groaned in a unified chorus. The alarm bells were right on time in punctuality, as usual. But, despite such protest about, every soldier remained loyal.

The groans in an echo were more than enough to awaken Siorc from his especially deep slumber. Never hearing any sort of alarm bells, the chimera let out a tired yawn. Yet another workday was about to be upon him. It time to get a move on. Raising from the rock hard bed, the chimera had begun the morning routine of dressing the body.

As the hyena's uniform melted onto his partially human person, the chimera stared at the steel walls. Were things about to get worse around Teyvat? He could not help but feel whatever the abyssal gazelles have been up to, it's starting to get completely out of hand.

But, the hyena stopped himself from thinking further about such. What has occurred has already happened. It was already too late to stop such. Nothing could be done; the chaos has already rolled the dice and landed a six. He was only one person. Prevention has already died a dishonorable death.

Throwing all thoughts away besides work, the soldier removed the cover off his hairpin and earring box. Clicking the weaponized jewelry and accessory into place, matching roses adorned his hair and ears. Gazing at the sunflower set, for a moment, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed he was fine with allowing nature to be back on speaking terms with him again once more.

Dendro Vision hooked onto his uniform pants, the early adult stared at the Geo delusion. The sinister orb, should he finally make use of it? But, the chimera threw such thoughts out the window. He was not ready for such a thing. The time had not yet come to make use of Her Majesty's gift.

Thoughts buzzing around the chimera's head like a Cicin, the soldier walked around in a circle upon the icy cold floor. The hooded strangers, he had not come across them in Liyue since his first encounter with them there. Why had that been the case? But, the early adult snapped himself out of it. Why was he thinking about them? The duo not appearing in Liyue was definitely a good thing, without a shadow of a doubt.

Pushing any further thoughts he had in the snow outside, the chimera walked towards the edge of the room. Heelless shoes slipped over his currently human feet, the early adult shook his head. Liyue was safer without those two causing problems there. He supposed, he should be grateful they were not incurring their wrath upon other nations.

As the hyena bit down on his flavorless rations, the early adult returned his gazed towards the steel walls. The abyssal gazelles, they needed to stopped at all costs. No matter what, whatever they had planned needed to halted from progressing further. Taking the final bite into his gruel of nothing, the hyena placed his buttons in the correct hole. Everything in order, the chimera had finished the morning routine of dressing the body.

Hearing the louder than ever before sound of militaristic boots marching about with a militaristic fervor, the soldier turned his attention towards the door. Time had run out. The hourglasses' sand had reached the bottom. Volume of footsteps eventually reaching zero, the chimera put on the most diplomatic face possible. The time had come for his workday to begin.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc," the Agent called out on cue. "You will performing a heist at the Research Institute at the stroke of night." He then took a moment to pause before continuing. "As well as locating local legends and investigating secret areas within Fontaine. Stamp out any hostile monsters, if necessary. Our allies are watching." The masked Agent gave unseen eye contact with his subordinate in arms. Every other Archon should swear allegiance to the Tsaritsa.

Siorc jumped ten steps back upon hearing his entire laundry list of orders. He had to do what now? Perform a heist? He has to steal from people? Why did he have to do something like that? Whatever it was Her Majesty wanted, surely, he could just obtain it by asking. Fatui, weren't they known as diplomats? How peculiar.

The early adult jumped three further steps back as the rest of his orders echoed in his inhuman eardrums. Locate the local legends? Investigate secret areas? What was this, a treasure hunt? Her Majesty wants the strangest things from him sometimes. But, he knew he had no choice but to follow orders.

"Diplomatic Soldier Siorc!" the Agent called out again. "Are you listening to me? You will be performing a heist in Fontaine!" there was an irritated tone in his voice. What could possibly be on his mind besides work? "What's the hold up? You will not be taking anything important enough for anyone to notice anything will be missing! So, quit dawdling, and get a move on!"

The early adult flinched. Right, he was on the nonexistent clock. There was no time for thinking. Taking a long deep breath, the hyena turned towards the Agent. Arm out in front of him, the soldier awaited for the gripping prison to take him away like it always does.

"Yes, sir," the chimera responded autonomously. Stealing important, noticeable things or not, he knew he had no choice in the matter.

"Good. Let's go, soldier," the Agent responded. Arm out in front of him, the masked agent gripped the limb into a tight squeeze. Gripping prison as relentless as it always had been, the early adult closed his eyes. As the escort to Fontaine began, one final thought wrapped vines around him.

What kind of heist was this going to be?

***

"I've stopped caring about beauty. I thought I

Could get through this,
All these ugly feelings inside me. But,
No more. I can no longer

Take this. I cannot live with
All these ugly feelings. Malika should not have taken the
Knives and swords away.
Every day is agony. I

No longer wish to be
On this planet while being so ugly, I an longer beautiful.

Maybe I never was, all
Of these years, my family has always wanted to get
Rid of me. My outfits,
Everything. What point is there in living? I am no longer

Beautiful. Marquis said so.
Everything is pointless,
And I can no longer go on. I am
Ugly. It is time to bid farewell,
Time to say goodbye.
Yes, get the rope. I am

Ugly now. It better to just say my
Goodbyes to this world.
Looks like my father was right, I just ruin everything.
You won't have to

Waste your time scolding me anymore, father. I
Hope you are happy.
Once and for all, I'll be out of your life.

Completely gone, once I
Am finished. You'll only
Remember me as a failure, anyway.
Every moment and every
Second has been a disappointment for you, hasn't it, father?

It's fine. You

Will no longer have a failure in your home.
As for Malika, I am sorry. Regina, I apologize.
No matter what I do, I can't go back
To a world where I am ugly. So, it's

Time for my farewell, to the finale. There will be no
Obituary, just burn me.

Don't let me become a skeleton, so
I am at least beautiful in my
Ending moments. "

Upon reaching the desert edges through the teleport waypoint, the early adult could feel himself begin to shake. Was it just him, or was there a slight chill in the air today? But, the soldier had been dragged forward before he could finish such thought. Not having any time to think, the hyena closed his eyes.

Dragged down the mountain as usual, the Agent summoned the boat, in an instant. Seeing a slight amount of frost on the water as he had been placed in the wooden vessel, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Fontaine, was it about to freeze over? There was no way boating was safe right now.

As the vehicle of manpower cruised forward, the early adult could not help but wonder. Was winter coming to the Nation of Justice? He did not know why, but he couldn't help but feel Fontaine was in a constant state of springhood. But, he supposed that was never truly the case.

Removed from the vessel and dragged forward towards the stairwell, the accursed reminder soon left the Agent's lips. Told he was not allowed to teleport in Fontaine whatsoever for what felt like the hundred thousandth time, the early adult wanted to unleash his fangs upon his subordinate's shoulder. Why did he have to remind him of such fact every single time? He gets it already.

Agent soon handing him his satchel and a list of locations on a sheet of paper, something of peculiar note had been fired off in the early adult's inhuman eardrums. Told he will need to change into his heist outfit during nighttime, the soldier's eyebrows twitched. Just how planned was this heist? Absolutely ridiculous.

Told he needs to gather information about the local legends before seeking them out, as well, the Agent soon exited the area. Orders heard loud and clear, the hyena ascended the staircase. Taking the glass lift, as well, the chimera headed towards the Aquabus Station. Pressing the button, the early adult waited.

Barely anyone around aside from a few socialites dressed in extremely expensive winter wear, the soldier blinked. Could it really have been frosty season in Fontaine right now? Perhaps, just maybe, this was natural progression in the weather. Surely, there was nothing to worry about.

Aquabus not anywhere to be seen, the early adult blinked. Turning his head towards the water, the hyena studied it, for a moment. Frost covering the lake a smidgeon, a wave of concern flowed through him once more. Was it really safe for an automated boat to cruise on liquid about to ice over?

Vehicle of automatic movement soon arriving after a fifteen minute delay, an apology from the Melusine had come the soldier's way. Shaking his head as he seated himself, the chimera stared off into space as the vessel cruised forward. Tour guide saying she's not used to seeing frost, alarm bells rang in the chimera's head.

As the Aquabus cruised past the Poisson tunnel, the soldier could not help but wonder. The frost, could it have happened because of a certain sometwo? He knew, there was a possibility at hand the abyssal gazelles were up to something again. He needed to be on the lookout for them, no matter what.

Melusine soon talking about Errinyes, the soldier turned his head towards the right. Not noticing anything out of the ordinary, the chimera shrugged his shoulders. Maybe certain parts of the nation were immune from sudden weather changes. Turning his head back, the soldier turned his attention back towards the tour guide.

Tour guide soon informing him they are about to arrive at the Court of Fontaine, the early adult took a deep breath. The capital city, would it be frosty here, as well? He knew he needed to prepare himself for anything. Stepping off the vessel as it docked, the soldier had begun walking.

City streets as busy as ever, the soldier could hardly believe the first thought that paraded through his mind. The pesky penguin family. Perhaps, just maybe, they had more information about the local legends of Fontaine. While he did not wish to cross paths with them at any given point, he supposed inquiring them first was the right course of action.

Resolute on his decision, the early adult had begun walking. Heading upon the northern path, the soldier turned his head towards the right and left. Multiple citizens shivering up a storm in the streets, the chimera shook his head. Were the generic nobodies not equipped for winter at all?

As the hyena sauntered onward, the early adult could not help but ponder. Cold weather, was it really not normal in Fontaine? Surely, whenever it rained, it brought about a slight chill. Fountain besides the hedges slightly covered in ice, eerie silence filled the roads.

Human gardes dressed up in what looked like brand new winter uniforms, the soldier could feel his heart skip a beat. Was the city guarded more today than it was the other day? If such were the case, he needed to proceed with utmost caution, no matter what. Attempting with all his might to avert their gaze, the chimera kept walking.

Stepping near the rival boutique to Malika's, an Inazuman woman adorning a kimono stood outside the doors. Placing an outfit on display outside of a winter outfit, the soldier could not help but feel a slight wave of tension in the air. Employee outside helping out, fighting words released themselves into the open.

"New winter outfits now in stock," the possible owner of Chioriya Boutique said. "We have coats here, unlike the Congelé Boutique."

Hearing the woman bring out some fighting words, the early adult had come to a quick realization. Chioriya Boutique and Congelé Boutique were competitors with one another. Malika, she surely would need to watch out, or the Inazuman owned fashion store would put hers out of business.

Moving forward, the soldier swore he could see a group of mushroom monsters twirling around in an alleyway. Seeing such, the chimera's eyebrows twitched. Well dressed woman in the corner advertising some sort of fungus board game, a wave of confusion flowed through him. Who would want to play a board game with fungi as their game pieces? But, he supposed entertainment came in all shapes and sizes.

Passing by the Adventurer's Guild, the hyena could hear the receptionist say rebooting for minutes on end. Hearing such, the early adult gazed at the generic woman, for a moment. Was she playing some sort of game? Sitting around all day with barely any work to give out had to have been boring for a receptionist.

Knowing he had to make haste and head for the penguin's abode right away, the soldier kept moving forward. City streets getting quieter as he kept on going, a wave of relief flowed through the hyena. The streets were no longer busy. There was no chance of him being squished into a pancake.

Cruising through the western streets, the early adult turned his attention towards the entrance towards Fleuve Cendre. The less fortunate who lived in the underground city, would they be alright in the event of a cold night? But, the hyena snapped himself out of it. There was no time to think about such things.

Passing by the hotel, the chimera braced himself. Any second now, and Earl would bother him and drag him off to his apartment. The pesky penguin thorn in his side, he was about to pop out. Any second now. Readying to move forward, the hyena prepared himself for the inconvenience.

But, no such inconvenience ever came. Earl nowhere to be seen, the chimera kept walking towards the boutique. Baron nowhere to be seen, either, the chimera shrugged. Maybe he had gotten too used to the penguins being around to interrupt him. Entering the fashion establishment, the hyena took a deep breath.

Nothing but a guard meka on duty, the early adult tilted his head. Not a single soul inside doing any shopping, the early adult scratched the side of his cheek. Something wasn't right about this, for sure. But, he supposed competition was fierce. He was overthinking it, for sure. Walking down the steps towards the apartment below, the soldier prepared his inquires on the tip of his fingers.

He was right on the mora. He was not overthinking.

As the soldier walked down the final step, a scene that should not be witnessed played out like an acting performance gone wrong at the Opera Epiclese. Kaiser standing on top of the dining room table underneath a rope dangling from the ceiling, a sword sat in his hands. Sharp edges slicing the skin up like a plate of jelly in a rapid manner, red velvet pudding soon decorated the table as an appetizer.

Kaiser letting out a scream as the sword's rampage continued, the soldier's heart had begun to beat backwards. The rope, the weapon, he knew what was about to happen. He needed to get out of here; leave, pretend he saw nothing. Penguin trio running onto the scene, however, he was soon cornered. Malika stepping forward, shouts drowned out the first set of wails.

"Kaiser, what are you doing?" Malika asked in a lowered, deep voice. "Stop it!" Another shout soon joined the mix.

"Kaiser, trying to take your life over one small comment is foolish," Baron chimed in. "Marquis was not serious when he said you were ugly."

"Neither of you understand! He called me ugly!" Kaiser cried out, moving the sword towards his chest. "I can't live like this!" Hands and voice shaking, his voice soon rose. "I've become so ugly! Let me die!"

Hearing slicing noises soon continue, the early adult plugged his ears. Leave, he had to leave. He had to get out of here. Run away, disappear. Why did he have to come to the boutique at such a bad time? But, as he attempted to stage his exit, the bladed weapon soon fell to the floor.

"Kaiser, apologies," Baron soon said.

Chop dealt onto the back of the penguin's neck, Kaiser's body soon slumped over. Hearing various shouts towards Malika to bring him to the couch, the hyena could feel himself tune out of the world as everything moved forward. But, he had soon been brought back to reality as a finger tapped on his shoulder.

Earl tapping on his shoulder, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. Goofy smile of aggravation on the pesky thorn in his side's face, the soldier crossed his arms around his waist. How could he be smiling at a time like this? Didn't he see what just happened a few minutes ago? This man was beyond his comprehension.

Seeing his future husband staring off to space in his apartment, a cloud parted ways to reveal a portion of sunlight. Did Siorc come to see him? He was just the medicine he needed right now. Giving him a tiny tap on the shoulder, he readied to break a hole in the ice.

"Hi again, Siorc!" Earl greeted. "Did you come here to take me out on a date? Now's not a good time, unfortunately." But a voice soon cut in.

"Really? You're thinking of romance at a time like this?" Baron asked, deadpan.

Penguins looking like they were about to be quite busy, the soldier shook his head. Maybe it was best to just leave and give them space. But, he knew he had to at least ask about the local legends of Fontaine before he were to depart. Taking a momentary deep breath, he released the forbidden question.

"I apologize for coming at a bad time, sir," the hyena said, voice barely audible. He then took another deep breath. "Do you know anything about the Local Legends of Fontaine?" The early adult could feel sweat pour down his back as he finished such. Maybe he should not have asked. They were in a crisis right now. How selfish of him.

Baron let out a sigh as they heard the question. Really? Siorc came all this way to ask such a stupid question? He could have gone to the newspaper stand and find a book all about that. Some people were far too reliant on others for information. This was an error that needed correction.

Hearing his future husband's question, Earl could feel the storm cloud return. The local legends? This was a bad time to ask about such a thing, his mind was completely blank. Empty, a white sheet of paper with only the world the written on it in fancy script. He was definitely being a bad wife right now.

"Really? You came all the way here to ask about something like that?" Baron asked, crossing their arms across their waist. "You could have consulted a book about it instead of us."

"Don't be rude to my future husband, Baron!" Earl shouted. He then turned towards Siorc. "But, my mind is blank, sorry!"

Malika soon walking out of the room stating Kaiser cut himself deep and they need to get to a doctor right away, the soldier readied himself to exit the area. It was time to get out of here, and stop intruding. But, as he attempted to exit, eyes were soon on him once more immediately.

"Siorc, do you need something?" Malika asked, voice tired. "Sorry, it has to wait."

"He wants information about the local legends," Earl added. But, such words were a mistake.

"The local legends of Fontaine?" Malika asked, voice tired. "I suggest heading over to the Iudex and asking him about that." She then shook her head. "Sorry, darling for not being able to help."

Knowing what he just had witnessed moments before, the early adult placed his hands in front of him. Signing the words he understood, the early adult staged his exit. Maybe Malika was on the right track and the Iudex might know something about the Local Legends of Fontaine. Lead given, the early adult prepared himself to head for the Palais Mermonia.

Staging his exit, the hyena readied himself to head for the Aquabus Information station. Knowing there was a small possibility the Iudex was not here, the soldier set himself up for failure. But, he supposed if the Chief Justice had no information, either, just seeking them out on his own was the only other option that remained.

Walking through the city streets in silence, the soldier soon walked upon the glass lift. Box bringing him upwards towards the fourth floor, the early adult took a long deep breath. The Iudex, would he be too busy to answer his questions, if such were the case, he would apologize and move on.

Stepping foot into the large, important building, the soldier took another deep breath. Melusine soon saying if he was here to see the Iudex, he'd need an appointment, a doom cloud poured rain down on his head. Right. He was supposed to make an appointment. How could he forget such an important factor?

But, an exception had soon threw itself onto the plate. Melusine receptionist soon saying that she remembers him. He was the one who dealt with the black crystals the other day. Told he can go straight on ahead, the early adult blinked of bewilderment. No appointment needed? What in the world just happened?

Stepping towards the Iudex's office, the early adult closed his eyes, for a moment. Knocking on the wood, an important voice on the other side soon said to come in. Bracing himself, the hyena opened the door at a slow pace. But, what awaited him on the other side was a surprise to behold.

Chief Justice of Fontaine sitting at his desk drinking water from an extremely fancy chalice, sweat poured down the chimera's back. Did he interrupt the Iudex while he was on his lunch break? He needed to apologize for intruding upon his downtime. Eyes soon on him, the powerful voice soon returned.

"Greetings, young man," the Iudex greeted. He soon placed down his water chalice. "How may I help you?"

Watching as the Chief Justice of Fontaine dropped his water cup on his desk, the early adult placed his hands in front of him. Folding his right hand into a fist, the hyena moved his hand in a circular motion upon his chest. Apology signed on private display, eyes were soon on him once more.

"It's quite alright. You are not disturbing me," the Iudex said in a serious tone. "What can I help you with?"

Question thrown his way once more, the early adult gazed at the paper stacks across the room. Perhaps, just maybe, it was better to write down his question than speak it. Pointing at a piece of paper in the corner, a feather quilled pen and leaflet were soon handed to him.

Offered the couch and table in the corner, the soldier had begun scribbling up a storm. Writing down in Mondstadt writing, "Do you know about the local legends of Fontaine, sir? the soldier dotted the question mark on the paper. Handing over the sheet to the Chief Justice, he looked the sentence over for several minutes.

"This might take awhile to explain," the Iudex said, hand on his chin. "Would you like some water?"

Offer of a drink coming his way, the early adult tilted his head. Should he really impose the Iudex like this? But, he supposed his hospitality was welcoming. Giving the man a nod, he soon stepped out of his office, for a moment. Fancy chalice cup filled with the richest of liquids, a heavy wave of unease flowed through him. Was this rich people water, should he really be partaking in this? People with the most mora were living the life, indeed.

Toasting to himself, for a moment, the soldier sipped on the rich water. As the liquids travelled down his partially human esophagus, the chimera flinched. What was this taste, exactly? He couldn't quite put his currently human fingers on it. Iudex soon looking ready to speak once more, he turned his head towards him. Eye contact provided, he kept his ears open.

"It is the local legends you wish to know about, yes?" the Iudex asked. He then continued. "It would seem those creatures from below the sea have been imbued with dark energy and are wandering around in the wilderness."

The early adult could feel the water go down the wrong pipe as the Iudex informed him of the situation. Woofing out a cough, the soldier closed his eyes. What did he just say? The local legends of Fontaine were on the loose infused with dark energy? What could that have possibly meant? Coughs continuing as his throat tickled, his thoughts raced.

Words echoing through his mind once more, a sea of questions flowed through the hyena. The local legends, how could they have possibly escaped the sea? Had the abyssal gazelles done something again? He needed to put a stop to whatever it was they were trying to accomplish right away. Throat tickles continuing as the sea drowned him, inquires soon interrupted.

"Young man, are you alright?" the Iudex asked.

Punching his chest, the early adult nodded. Knowing he would have no choice but to deal with the local legends in the wrongful places, the chimera placed his hands in front of him. Signing he would take care of them, eyes were soon on him once more. Returning eye contact in kind, warnings flowed in like a river.

"Proceed with utmost caution," the Iudex warned. "Elphane informed me some were spotted in Marcotte Station. I recommend you head for Mount Esus East first and foremost."

Hearing the location of Mount Esus, the chimera's knees buckled. Some had been spotted within the hawk's territory? If he were to head over there, he would become the bird duo's next bounty, guaranteed. But, he supposed he had no choice in the matter. Perhaps, just maybe, they were not in the area.

Exiting the Iudex's office, the chimera staged his exit. Knowing he had to make haste and head for the hills right away, the chimera walked off towards the city's exit. Generic nobodies walking around outside clamoring about the Chiyoriya Boutiques brand new winter line, the early adult attempted to tune such chatter out.

Soon reaching the glass lift to exit the city, the chimera placed himself in the box. Field of grass soon upon him, the hyena slapped cheeks. Hawk chimeras, or not, he had to deal with the local legends. Stepping onto the field in front of him, the early adult would not falter. But, upon setting foot onto the open wilderness, oddities took full shape.

Large, pitch black octopus crawling around on land like it was a huge spider, the early adult's heart skipped more than four beats. Was that one of the local legends? Dark purple aura flowing through it, the hyena let out a gulp. Creature swiftly approaching, the young soldier backed four steps away.

Octopus swinging its tendrils forward like they were an executioner's sword, the early adult tossed down a flower acquaintance. Silk flower familiar brought to life by his Dendro Vision, the soldier attempted to provide silent commands to the plant. But, such had been an instant failure.

Black sea creature of darkness scooping up the Silk Flower in its limbs, the soldier's only line of elemental defense wilted away as it had been lunged forward. Creature slithering its way on back, the chimera gritted his teeth. Was Dendro useless here? Throwing down a Windwheel Aster coworker, the hyena attempted to test the waters.

Windwheel Aster defeated, as well, the early adult let out a sigh. He supposed he was wasting his time attempting to make use of the elements. Sifting through his satchel, for a moment, the chimera looked for some sort of weapon to make use of. Bag empty with nothing but his diving suit and heist equipment, an invisible white flag had been waved upon the battlefield.

Knowing he had no choice but to transform, the chimera closed his eyes, for a moment. Human hands soon become hyena claws, the hyena studied the eight legged sea beast's movements for a moment. Creature only moving towards the right, an invisible lightbulb appeared over the hyena's head.

Dashing off towards the left, the young soldier lunged forward. Hyena claws at the ready, the natural weapons had come crashing down upon the target. Slashing up a rainstorm, the early adult let out a battle cry. Fish looking about ready to become calamari at any given second, the soldier kept the momentum going.

Sticky, slimy limbs tying themselves up in knots, the soldier prepared to deal the final blow. Claws soon sinking in deep, the creature soon faded into the ether. First local legend become a local hasbin, the hyena brushed his claws together. Knowing more awaited him on the northern path, the chimera kept walking.

Easy street, however, soon flipped over to medium. Group of black octopi squirming towards him crackling like a rice treat in another universe, the chimera's eyes opened wide. These so called legends of Fontaine had the power of Electro? He was about to become tighter than a lightbulb.

Power of lightning and Archons in the eight legged aquatic creature's hands, the chimera's uniform sparked up a storm. Feeling his energy drain away as the storm upon him worsened, the early adult could feel the tickles of thunder break him apart. Onslaught continuing, the medium switch set itself to hard.

Octopi tucking their heads in, the creatures charged in like they were soldiers in war. Rocky craniums striking him a new one, the soldier froze in place. What were these monsters, from Liyue and Inazuma? Attempting with all his might to strike back, the early adult placed his claws in front of him.

Such counter strike failed before it could even begin. Static inviting itself onto his limbs, everything crackled. Becoming nothing but a sitting duck for minutes on end, electricity had become the soldier's only friend. Sea creatures pulling two aces from that battle deck, nothing was in the favor of the opposing party.

Tail popping out from behind him as the onslaught continued, the early adult attempted with all his might to shake off the world of static overthrowing him. Furry appendage behind him swishing with a fury, defenses kicked in after four attempts. Enemies becoming one with nature, the soldier moved forward onto the northeastern path.

The hard switch would soon tap over into lunatic mode. Octopi trio in front of him flipping themselves over, a barrage of bullets released from their rectum, the hyena attempted to make a run for it. But, such was an impossibility to be had, for sure. Crosshair gifted to his chest, the game of bullets was ready and waiting.

Weapons drenching him for minutes on end, the early adult attempted to dodge the incoming projectiles. But, such had been a failure of spectaculars proportions. Group of aquatic creatures banding together, the sea only kept getting stronger. World in front of him invisible, the early adult sent his prayers to the Hydro Archon he was not supposed to worship for an opening to strike back.

Sea monsters ascending upwards, the creatures soon linked their limbs together. Circle of friends within arm's length, the bullets swarmed once more. Every centimeter of his body rained down on, the soldier could feel his energy fade away. What was this battle, a bullet battle between young women with the powers of a shrine? He had to have been whisked away into a light novel book, or something.

Returning himself to reality, the hyena could feel himself begin to sway back and forth as metallic points plucked on him. Defeat ready to send him to another world, the last resort had begun to roll the dice. Tail out in front of him, the chimera prepared himself. Bullet barrage ready and waiting, the hyena's tail had become a boomerang.

Projectiles returned to sender, the early adult could feel his energy continue to fade away. Who in the world placed bullet inside octopi? What a cruel world it had been. Feeling his vitality take multiple hits as the soldier kept walking forward, his currently human legs had become spaghetti.

Multiple aquatic monsters slain as the beach slowly approached, a wave of caution flowed through the soldier. Any minute now, and he would be in hawk territory. The next target, the newest bounty. He knew, going forward, no matter what, he would have to proceed with utmost caution.

Pitch black crabs walking sideways on the beach, pinchers out and ready, the early adult placed himself in a battle stance. Swiping forward, retaliation had come the soldier's way. Monsters lowering their backs, an explosive gift had been presented to the hyena.

Dodging with all his remaining strength, the early adult sent the gifts back to their respective owners. Crustaceans returning themselves to the ocean bed adjacent to them, the early adult stumbled back towards the path in front of him. But, lightning soon struck twice.

Group of crabs attempting to loot some treasure, the early adult observed the objects in front of him. Strange ovular devices with the symbol of Hydro on them, the hyena lowered his eyes into a squint. Why were the creatures attempting to take such a thing? What use would they be to them?

Creatures dragging him up a sandy staircase, a puzzle awaited the soldier. Ring of water surrounding him as he had been pushed the early adult's claws hit the volumizers. First one towards the left of the staircase hit, the object moved towards an deactivated one. Second one soon activating, the puzzle continued.

Rest of the objects hit as each floated towards one another, a peculiar treasure chest appeared out of thin air. Low quality greatsword falling out of the trove, the hyena pocketed the spoils, for the time being. Spherical volumizers drenching the creatures aplenty, the path ahead was soon clear.

Collection of defeats reversing the tides as Mount Esus East neared, the early adult let out a deep huffed breath. How had so many sea creatures made their way on land? There was absolutely no way any of them were the true local legends. Fights continuing as the northern patrol continued, a reminder soon let itself in.

Spotting the hawk and falcon duo soaring the skies letting their arrows do the talking, caution bells rung in the hyena's partially human mind. The bounty hunters were on duty today, indeed. Any second now, he was going to be spotted. He needed to leave, run, move on to Marcotte Station.

Eyes of a hawk, indeed.

Wings zipping through the chilly sky, the soldier could feel his legs turn to stone. Arrow barrage taking his shoulders for a ride, the hyena waved the invisible white flag upon the battlefield. It was over, he had been spotted. Hawk rapidly approaching his location, the second flag soon waved.

Vagrant villain stepping into his territory once again, Robin swooped his talons downward. How dare this Fatui come through his hunting grounds again. When will he ever learn that he is not welcome here? It was time to give him a warning that would stick onto him like glue.

"Fatui, how dare you enter my territory!" Robin shouted. His fingers clutched his bowstring with a fervor. "Get out of here, or justice shall be served to your back!"

Threat coming the hyena's way, the soldier could feel his body turn to stone. Right, this was hawk territory. He was not welcome here. He had to get out of here as soon as possible. Local legends around in the mountains or not, he had to get away, or he would become the next bounty. Any second now.

"Hon, run," Raven said.

Sea of arrows coming his way, the chimera ran as fast as his legs would carry him. Dashing off towards the bridge in the corner, adrenaline sang the song of doom. Hopping across the broken passageway, the hyena kept going. Marcotte, yes, the station, it was time to deal with the local legends in the station. Surely, that was not the hawk's territory in any given way.

Catching his breath as he kept heading towards the east, the soldier looked over his instructions for a moment. List stating the local legends had been spotted west of Marcotte Station, the soldier wobbled backwards. They were seen west of the area? The truth was a world of half-baked mistakes served raw.

Continuing to run towards the station, the early adult huffed and puffed. Running was a cardiovascular exercise indeed. Taking a moment to read through his notes once more, multiple names stuck out to the soldier. Paper enlisting the name Foggy Forest Path, the chimera tilted his head. A forest obscured by harsh weather? What was this, a mini Tsurumi Island? But, he knew he had to move forward, no matter what.

Moving onward towards the southern path, a peculiar encounter amongst the rest caught the hyena's attention. Hilichurls holding strange wands singing like mages in the open wilderness, a sea of confusion flowed through the hyena. These primitive creatures, had they been in the wrong body? They were not acting right, for sure.

Creatures of many peculiarities bringing down the magic of darkness, the soldier jumped towards the right and left. What in the world were these Hilichurls being powered by? He could not help but feel something had lead these creatures on the path to the world beneath Teyvat.

Sunny attacks taking the stage, the early adult let out a sigh. Taking out the claymore paperweight from his satchel, his weapon had become player two. Enemies staggering backward as the blade pulled on through, the soldier let out a battle cry. Creatures letting out a séance, the magic of darkness took its last stand.

Knocking the staff out of the monster's hands, the soldier struck his blade with a fervor. Hilichurls running off at the speed of sound, the soldier lowered his eyes into a squint. Robed monsters soon taking back what was theirs, the early adult kept walking. But, his battle had only just begun as his southward walk continued.

Multiple monsters adorning the exact same staff weapons as previously spotted monsters, the chimera held back the urge to sigh. Were these monsters performing heists of their own? Had he fallen into a story about one thousand thieves? But, the chimera threw such thoughts away. His imagination was running too wild. He was in reality right now, for sure.

Weapons of magic knocked out of the so called local legend's hands, the chimera swung the greatsword forward. Enemies turning to dust and ashes after thirty hits, the chimera kept heading upon the southern path. Forest getting closer, a dense atmosphere soon hit the air.

Finding himself in a forest of fog with a peculiar looking blue tree, the soldier broke out into a shiver. Area before him covered in a sea of red mist sweat poured down the soldier's brow. What was he, in some copy and pasted horror story referred to as a pasta? Absolutely ridiculous nonsense.

Creatures galore making their presence known in the area, the soldier let out a sigh. This forest was crawling with local legends. Land bound stingrays encasing themselves in water bubbles, the world of mist soon threw the soldier for a loop. Shells taking the stage, everything stagnated.

Figuring the only way to cleanse the local legends of their dark energy was to clear out the red mist, the soldier walked off towards the strange tree in the corner. Branches looking sickly, a wave of unease flowed through the chimera. Another tree had been plagued with a nature illness? Fontaine was falling apart, guaranteed.

Spotting the strange instruments in the corner of the forest, the soldier could not help but wonder, would solving the puzzle of the device clear out the red fog up above? He knew it was worth a shot. Recalling Aigre many days prior had combined soapy water bubbles and pushed it towards the center, the early adult prepared himself.

Discovering a device in the corner, the soldier pressed a button. Power of the octopus in his hands, the early adult pointed his index finger as if it were a pistol. Bubble combined with its watery twin, the chimera slapped his tail into the object. Only two of the four instruments hit, the bubbles reset themselves.

Attempting to aim carefully, the soldier tried once more. Instruments resounding as the second attempt succeeded, the bubbled up local legend soon became nothing but ashes. Moving towards the west, the puzzle repeated itself, for a moment. Misty branches in the corner gaining a second lift, the hyena tilted his head towards the sky.

Mist still as red as it was moments ago, the soldier shook his head. He supposed it would not be as easy as it looked to get rid of such phenomenon. Moving towards the next set of challenges, defeat overtook the stingrays of land. Creatures fading into nothing, the third and fourth round of puzzles took to the stage.

Mist still going strong, failure laughed at the hyena. Why was the fog still there? But, he supposed he still had some missions within the area to fulfill. Ray monsters flying off towards a strange rock, the soldier's legs erupted into a speedy sprint. Reaching the next puzzle, questions flowed through the chimera.

Peculiar rock ball seating itself around a collection of explosives, the hyena blinked. What in the world was he looking at, exactly? Aquatic creatures pointing at a button, the chimera lowered his eyes into a squint. What in all of Teyvat was going on? Had Celestia flipped the friendly switch? Pressing the clicker, a message beamed across the sky.

Sky challenging him to get the stone ball through the hoops without triggering a single explosive, the hyena's heart had begun to pound out of his chest. He had to do what? There was absolutely no way something like that could even be possible. Attempting to aim the ball through the aquatic hoops, the chimera closed his eyes.

Failing the challenge more times than he had fingers to count, the early adult's eyebrows furrowed. There was absolutely no way this was possible. There was barely enough space between the rings and the explosives for the challenge to be doable. Whatever adventure guild employee put this here, they needed to lose their job, for sure.

Stingray local legend solving the puzzle on its own as the soldier attempted to move away, the hyena's jaw dropped straight open. What did he just witness? The sea creatures, did that wretched doctor place a human brain in them? The world of monsters and creatures was stranger than reality.

Multiple other ball challenges completed by the sea creatures, the hyena turned his head upward towards the sky once more. Red mist not bidding itself farewell, the early adult tilted his head. Why was the fog not clearing away? Perhaps, just maybe, defeating any remaining rogue monsters would do the trick.

Hostile dragons with black bodies defeated after hours of fighting, nothing had made any progress. Red mist remaining supreme, the soldier waved the invisible white flag once more. It was no use, the weather was not clearing. Perhaps, just maybe, it would clear out on its own.

Exiting the forest, the evening sky glared daggers at the hyena. Knowing he had to perform the heist in the Research Institute, the soldier walked towards the station. Throwing himself in a bush nearby, the chimera removed his temporary uniform. Quickly changed, the soldier rummaged through his satchel, for a moment.

Coming across scammy equipment labelled as the invisible potion, the soldier rolled his eyes to the sky. The Agent gave him something that would turn him invisible? He would believe it when he sees it. There was no way that sort of garbage ever worked. But, such had not been the only thing extra in his bag.

Coming across a small pocket mirror, the soldier held the reflection tool upward. Black masked figure of himself staring at the glass, the hyena adjusted the angle of the lens. Dark green leather dress with a lacy white skirt and black glove to match his face covering, a second eyeroll had been awarded to the version of himself in the mirror. He looked like a phantom thief from an Inazuman light novel; absolutely appalling.

Sneaking through the bushes as he continued heading through the pathways near the opera house, the soldier read over his heist instructions in a careful manner. Note stating he would be stealing prototype equipment from the laboratory in the southwest area towards within the region, the hyena's eyes fluttered. Was he reading that correctly? There was no way this was a good idea. Second line informing him to make the steal with a bang, the early adult did a quadruple take. He had to do what now? Make a bang? How was that stealing stealthily? Whoever wrote his instructions lived in a fantasy world.

Soon approaching the research institute after about an hour of walking, the hyena let out a groan as he sprayed the invisible potion over himself. Not becoming transparent in any possible way, the chimera pressed his claws against the scammy bottle. Sure, an invisible potion. It was just water, guaranteed. Whoever sold it was getting rich off liquid.

Knowing he would have to climb up the ceiling, the chimera prepared himself. Invisible or not, he knew he had no choice but to continue the heist. Spotting small robots crawling around the floor with their tiny mechanical baby feet, a wave of guilt flowed through the soldier. Should he really be taking these things? This was someone's hard work.

Recalling his notes told him to make a bang, the hyena rummaged through his satchel. Box of sparklers located, the chimera's heart skipped a beat. Who put explosives inside his bag? This was quite the opposite of performing a heist. Robots crawling around, the chimera hooked the suction cups onto his outfit. Sticky as a frog, the soldier attempted the crawl.

Body moving in ways he never knew could have been possible, the soldier gazed down at the machines from below him. Hook with rope embedded onto his backside, the soldier waited for the right moment to strike. Researchers all saying goodnight to one another as they left, not a single person looked upward.

Fonta machine dimming its lights as almost everyone left, the early adult readied the explosives. Firecracker letting its presence be known, the hyena could feel the heat overtake him. The explosive, it was warm, fiery, ready to blow. Letting the weapon loose, a boom radiated throughout the area.

Hearing a shout as the fire cracker burst into colorful flames upon the floor, the hyena attempted to have the hook drop him downward. But, the other explosives beside him soon let themselves out of the box as if they had a mind of their own. Colorful sparkler dropping itself down towards the machinery, a deafening sound overtook the area.

Frantic footsteps soon approaching, the soldier swore he could see a group of figures running around the area. Had some researchers stuck around instead of going home? This heist was about to go down the drain, for sure. Being told to make a bang before swiping the objects was a horrible wave of instructions.

"What's going on?!" a voice shouted. "Who brought explosives in here?!"

"Razzenfrezzen phalanges," another voice shouted. "Get rid of them!"

"On it!" another voice shouted.

People running onto the scene, a spark popped off in the hyena's brain. He had to strike now before he was caught. Readying to lower the rope, the early adult pressed the button on the back of the hook holding him downward, he needed to collect the robotic prototypes now, and make a break for it.

People running around the research institute hunting down explosives, the soldier remained in place. If he were to lower himself down onto the ground now, he would be caught in an instant. He could not allow for such an easy defeat. Waiting it out, the chimera remained in position.

Group of strangers looking ready to leave, the chimera attempted to lower the hook once more. But, such had been a failure. Strangers running towards him, a finger had soon been juxtaposed towards his direction. Caught purple handed, the heist frosted itself over as if he had returned to Snezhnaya.

"Okay, buddy, we all caught you," a voice said. "Get down."

Spotted before he could perform a single heist, the research institute phantom thief surrendered himself. Dropping himself back towards the ground, the hyena raised his hands up where everyone could see them. He had just failed the world's worst, least entertaining heist in the world. If he were the main character in a book, and people had been reading, they would have dropped off by now, for sure.

Multiple eyes glaring at him, a familiar face stuck out amongst the crowd. Spotting Rabiu in the corner with a look of fear on his face, the soldier could feel a weight crush him from up above. Were the robots he was attempting to steal his? Look of fear mixed with a look of deep despair, a second weight crushed the hyena. How could Her Majesty make him steal from a sensitive person? How awful. This heist needed to be cancelled.

Seeing the cute boy he met the past week in fancy getup, Rabiu's lip quivered. Was this guy trying to steal his hard work and make a run for it? Why would he do something like that? Looks could be so deceiving sometimes. Look of guilt on the man's face, he shook his head. He was adorable enough. He'll just forgive him for his attempt at thievery.

"Um, uh? You're attempting to rob our prototypes?" Rabiu asked. "Well, you're cute, so, I forgive you." But, another voice soon joined in.

"Well, I'm cute!" a girl exclaimed. "So, do you forgive me for telling you that you're adopted all the time?"

"...Um, no?" Rabiu responded, voice trailing off.

Group of three strangers looking at the soldier with sharp gazes, the soldier took a moment to observe the three new faces in front of him. Standing off towards the left with their hand on their chin had been a man with jackal ears that had been moderately taller than him. Long dark blue hair in a asymmetric bob with loose twisted curls coming down from the center going down to about his waist, the hyena turned his attention towards the stranger's face. Right face scarred and red as blood, the hyena could feel a wave of shock flow through him. Right eye completely closed, with only the left eye open, the chimera could not help but wonder. Had something happened to this man? Dark brown skin glowing against his dark red researcher uniform, the chimera turned his attention towards the next stranger.

Standing off towards the corner gazing at him with contempt had been an androgynous jackal eared person only slightly taller than him. Dark blue hair tied up in a huge bun knotted towards the right side of their head, the chimera turned his attention towards their eyes. Orange eyes matching the person next to him, it had come to the hyena immediately. These two were siblings. Colorful researcher outfit with coattails flowing on the cold draft, the hyena turned his attention towards the final stranger.

Turning his head towards the left, a young woman slightly taller than him with jackal ears and goggles zeroed in on the chimera's attention. The young lady had icy light blue hair that went down to about her waist pulled into two medium twintails. Orange eyes practically sparkling, the chimera could not help but wonder. Had this girl secretly been Loba and Aega's long lost triplet? The resemblance was uncanny. Aviation uniform upon her, the chimera ended his examination. But, as he had done so, a game of twenty questions fired off.

"So, like, why are you trying steal Robby's health robot prototypes?" Bun man asked.