An Invitation From Afar!

Hey, Jean! We're here!

Ah, Paimon and the Traveler. I've been waiting for you.

Whoa, looks like Jean wasn't the only one waiting for us. Klee and Kaeya are here, too...

Oh, it's Paimon and Mr. Honorary Knight! It's been so long!

Ah, look who it is.

You've caught me completely off guard this time... But then again, it's always a pleasant surprise when you two show up.

Hehe, guess we were so excited to see Jean again that we forgot to knock. Hope we didn't startle anyone...

Wait a sec, you weren't talking about anything that we're not supposed to hear, were you?

Hey! Stop pretending like we're doing food deliveries!

It's been a while since we last met, but I can see you two haven't changed one bit.

Don't worry. We weren't discussing anything confidential.

In fact, we were just talking about you...

Maybe we should let the star of the story explain it in their own words?

Yeah! Lemme tell it, lemme tell it!

A few days ago, I was reading Dodoco Tales in the solitary confinement room... when all of a sudden, whoosh! A letter came flying in through the window!

Flying through the window? How does a letter fly?

Like a bird does — it was flapping its wings. It could even talk!

It said... Um, well, it was a bunch of stuff I didn't understand...

You couldn't understand? Then it must have been talking about how to avoid solitary confinement...

Ahem, Kaeya...

Just saying... We don't want to let a teachable moment slip by.

*sigh* Okay, I know... Anyway, the letter said: "Oh Klee, are you behaving? I see you've wound up in the solitary confinement room again..." Hehe, um, sorry about that.

"Mommy is busy these days and can't take you out to play. But there's good news — I have a friend who has very kindly invited you to visit her!"

Oh, so the letter's from Alice!

That sounds great, doesn't it?

In principle, yes. But the issue is that Alice's friend lives quite far from here.

Mm-hmm, the letter says that Mom's friend lives in Sumeru.

The Knights of Favonius could never agree to send Klee off to Sumeru on her own, but Klee is rather intent on taking Alice's friend up on this invitation.

Yeah! I really wanna go!

You see? So, we were wondering — who can we send with her on the journey? Preferably, someone who's a reliable hero, and with a history of saving Mondstadt...

Oh! So that's why you wanted to see us.

I do apologize, but Klee gets along with you so well... We couldn't think of a more suitable choice.

Sure, we can do that, no problem! Right?

Hehe, can you really, Mr. Honorary Knight?

Of course!

Yay!!! With Mr. Honorary Knight around, Klee's not afraid of anything!

See, I told you that he'd agree. In that case, we'll leave Klee in the trusty hands of 여행자...

And you too, Kaeya... You should join them.

I noticed you quietly completed that backlog of paperwork we had... You deserve the chance to unwind a little.

Oh, so you noticed? Well then, I suppose I have no reason to refuse.

Great! Things'll go even more smoothly with Kaeya around. Still, Sumeru is pretty far... it's gonna be a long journey.

Don't worry! Mom's letter had a "Magic Invite" inside!

Mom says we just have to all shout out where we want to go at the same time, and poof! We'll be there in the blink of an eye.

Wow, well that'll definitely make things easier!

It only works three times though. So we should only use it when we really need to...

Three's plenty. One for the way there, one for the way back, and one extra, just for good measure.

Sounds very mysterious... I still think we should use it sparingly.

After all, we don't know the exact location of where we'll be headed, or what dangers we may encounter on the way...

Here's what I suggest. 여행자, you're well-connected — I'm sure you must have friends who are familiar with Sumeru? I say we start by teleporting to one of them.

It'll give us a chance to test out the "Magic Invite" and also find ourselves a local guide.

Hmm, that kinda makes sense... And since it has three uses, there's no point letting one of them go to waste.

Couldn't have put it better myself, Paimon. So, do you have a particular contact in mind?

Hehe... Well, we need someone who's familiar with Sumeru and can be our guide, so... Sounds like we need a Forest Ranger.

And everyone knows that the best place to go looking for a Forest Ranger is a little place called...

Gandharva Ville.

That's the one! Maybe we can get Tighnari to help us!

Alright. Gandharva Ville it is.

Okay! I'm happy wherever we go! Especially with Kaeya and Mr. Honorary Knight!

We should be on our way, then. If you'll excuse us, Acting Grand Master.

Yes, let the wind lead. I wish you a safe journey, and Klee...

I know, I know... I'll be careful, I promise.

Great! Okay, here goes nothing: Take us to...

Gandharva Ville!

Gandharva Ville.

Gandharva Ville.

Grand Arbor Hill!

Huh!? No, it's not a hill! Ah, wait!!!

Whew, we made it. Paimon was sure we were about to end up some place super weird.

Hehe, sorry! It was an accident...

It's okay, Klee. Good news is, this Magic Invite really does work!

Fascinating. One moment we're in Mondstadt, the next we're in Sumeru.

So this is where Mom's friend lives? Wow, there are so many big flowers! Oh, and jumpy mushrooms!

You ain't seen nothin' yet! Sumeru's full of strange stuff like this!

Like, um...

Oh yeah! Heh, Paimon was pretty creeped-out the first time we saw one of those!

Listen carefully, Klee. Those jumping mushrooms are called Fungi. They may look cute, but if you get too close to one, it'll try to hit you with its cap.

Really? Okay, well... I'll hit it back with my cap!

And then I'll hit it with the hood on my jacket, too! Hee-hee, I'll definitely win if it's two hats against one!

Yeah Klee, you show 'em!

As long as playing with hats doesn't escalate to playing with bombs... But Klee's our friend, so we should be able to convince her to keep this trip explosion-free, right?

Mm-hmm! I'll be extra careful not to blow anything up! Um... I mean, I'll try my best...

Aww, that's very good of you, Klee! You're being very grown-up today!

Yep! I'm super grown-up, I'm already the Spark Knight!

Okay, Spark Knight! Well, keep up the good work, 'cause very soon we'll be introducing you to a friend of ours called Tighnari in Gandharva Ville!

Hmm, I've definitely heard the other Forest Rangers mention somebody dressed like that before...

I see. Then it looks like my suspicions are correct... Hmm? Who do we have here?

여행자 and Paimon! Oh, Kaeya and Klee are here, too!

Hi Collei, it's been aaages!

Collei, Eula! What are you two doing here?

Well, that question's really more for Eula.

What a coincidence. I didn't expect to run into a fellow Favonian captain this far from Mondstadt. How's the vacation going?

...Seriously? Bring the whole crew, why don't you? Tsk...

Is it just Paimon, or does Eula not look particularly thrilled right now...

Oh, cool! Great idea! Let's go.

If you're trying to accommodate me, there must be some misunderstanding. I'm fine. There's nothing embarrassing about running into colleagues in the wild.

Uh, but earlier you were...

Great! Well, I'm sure there's a fascinating reason behind why you're all the way out here in Sumeru. Do share it with us.

(Kaeya sure looks like he's getting a kick out of this...)

If you must know, it's a little complicated... But simply put, I'm searching for a cousin of mine from the Lawrence Clan.

He went missing recently, and after searching his home, we found evidence that led us here. He appears to believe that somewhere in Sumeru lies the key to restoring our clan to its former glory.

He came all the way to Sumeru for that? What was he going to do, enroll at the Akademiya?

That would be quite a roundabout way to achieve his goals.

I doubt he came here to learn. He's much too old to start getting a basic education now, and from what I know of him, I doubt he has any interest in intellectual pursuits.

All he cares about is restoring his clan's honor. Nothing wrong with that idea in principle, but I'm not certain how fanatical he is about it. So there's no knowing what lengths he might go to.

As a knight and a member of the Lawrence Clan, it's my duty to make sure he doesn't bring harm to others.

Oho... If this is true, then your cousin is quite a man of action. Traveling alone to Sumeru from Mondstadt is no mean feat.

Nor is daring to make me personally concerned about his safety. Hmph, he has no idea what's coming to him.

You know, underneath it all, Paimon thinks Eula's a really caring person.

Yeah, she's the best! She brought me some Moon Pie last time!

Ahem! He is family, after all... Anyway, I will make sure to find him and escort him safely back to Mondstadt.

You're really going the extra mile for him.

Hm. Now, back to you... How and why did you all suddenly show up here?

Hmm, I'm afraid that could be tricky... Master Tighnari is still at Pardis Dhyai delivering his lectures. He isn't due back for a while...

But I think I'll be able to help out. The description in the invitation letter is vague, but I'm pretty sure it's hinting at somewhere in the desert...

The desert?

Eh? Does that mean Mom's friend is from the desert? Hmm... I guess I'll call her Aunty Desert for now...

I remember Mahamatra Cyno once told me a strange rumor about that part of the desert...

They say there's a secret domain there that can make all of your wishes come true...

Ah, wait wait... He said I should just call him "Cyno." I keep forgetting that...

Huh. A domain that makes people's wishes come true...

Wow, so is it true? Does it really exist?

I probably would have believed it a few years ago. But now that I'm a little older and wiser, I think it makes sense to be more skeptical about things like this.

This explains a lot... The domain could well be a myth, but he probably figured he had nothing to lose. If you intend to search for this place, then please allow me to join you.

My cousin has quite a collection of books about Sumeru desert mythology on his shelves. I highly suspect that he, too, is looking for that domain.

Can I come, too? I—I think you might need me there!

You'll definitely need a local guide while you're in Sumeru, and... I think I have what it takes to be that person! Plus, it's a Forest Ranger's duty to bravely lend a helping hand to others in need.

We have every confidence in your abilities, Collei. Our party grows bigger and stronger still... What say you to this, Captain Klee?

I think it's suuuuper cool!

I read in a story book that "On your own you only have a drop of happiness, but in a group you have a whole ocean."

So I'm sure Mom's friend will be super happy if I show up to visit and bring a whole bunch of friends with me!

That's the spirit! In that case, let's get the Magic Invite to take us there!

Whoa, this desert is huuuge!

Wow, what an incredible sight...

Yes, the scenery is quite magnificent.

...

Are you okay, Eula? You don't look so good...

I'm fine, just taking a moment to acclimatize... The air here is much drier than in Mondstadt.

Hmm, this area doesn't look very habitable, and... I don't see a domain entrance nearby, either.

Oh no... I—I didn't pronounce the destination wrong, did I? I mean, I don't THINK I did...

Nope, you got it right! It definitely wasn't your fault!

I said "Gandharva Ville" wrong earlier, but we still ended up in the right place!

Klee's right. We're in the right place, there's no doubt about that.

Phew...

Hmm, maybe the entrance is hidden under a sand dune?

...Who knows. We'll just have to start by looking around.

Paimon's sooo tired... and so thirsty...

Hmm. We should have found something by now. Unless there's a problem with the Magic Invite?

Huh? How could that happen?

Uh-oh, did I break it by accident? But I didn't do anything! Dodoco will back me up, I'm innocent!

It's definitely not your fault, Klee! See? Not even a wrinkle on it.

If the domain is somewhere nearby...

Hmm? Does Mr. Honorary Knight have an idea?

Instead of us trying to find the domain...

Ah, Paimon knows where you're going with this!

Yes. We can try getting the domain to find us.

Interesting approach. Assuming we're right about this Magic Invite...

That is to say, if it was sent from within the domain, the invite likely has some sort of connection to it.

Oh, I get it now! Plus, I know a super special trick we can use!

What kind of trick? Can you teach it to us too?

Of course! Mom said that if I ever need help, I just need to shout this out loud:

Magic Invite, Magic Invite, Klee needs your aid! Do something now, so Klee's not afraid!

Look, 여행자! Something flew over!

Hmm? It looks like... a bottle?

Remarkably effective... That's one trick I'll be keeping up my sleeve in the future. You should make a note of it too, Eula.

Absolutely not! It's not my style.

I suppose bottles are pretty common in Sumeru mythology... So, is this supposed to be the entrance to the domain?

A domain in a bottle, huh... Well, if there's one thing we learned in Liyue, it's never judge a domain by its cover.

Guess there's one way to find out if this is really the way in! Come on, reach out with your hand!

(Touch the bottle...)

Look, look! There's a huge garden here!

Incredible... It looked so small from the outside...

Everyone, I suggest that we stop here for a moment. We should take stock of our surroundings before deciding on our next course of action.

Since we're in a bottle... Has anyone here heard the story of the "magic bottle"?

Oh, you mean the one about King Deshret and the Jinni-in-a-bottle? I've read it before, but I struggled with some of the vocabulary...

What's the story about, Kaeya?

Mom told me a story once about a group of adventurers who went to Bottleland... But I don't think there was a magic bottle in that one...

Don't worry, Klee, I can tell you all about the story of the magic bottle. But if you keep running off on your own, you'll miss all the good parts...

Oh... Okay, I got it. I'll stay with the group from now on...

...

You sense it too, don't you Collei? Something's not quite right.

Yeah... The scenery here is beautiful, but it's too quiet. And there's no sign of Klee's "Aunty Desert" here anywhere...

Maybe Aunty Desert lives way further down inside? This place is suuuuper big, just like Fischl's Immernachtreich. We still have a long way to go!

Guess we won't know until we get there. Let's keep going.

Hopefully we'll meet her soon!

Wow, it's a big ball of water...

I wonder what it feels like? Can I touch it?

It's so big that we could probably pass straight through it!

Wah, that's so scary! Stop giving Paimon the heebie-jeebies!

Let's not touch it for now. We still don't know enough about our environment.

But we can't just do nothing at all, because then... nothing at all will happen.

Hmm... I have a feeling that this could be the core that sustains this entire bottle-domain.

In which case the moment we touch it, this place will instantly revert to its original size... with all of us still inside.

Yikes...

Okay, okay, Paimon won't touch it, geez!

Kaeya... Are we really gonna get squished inside a bottle?

Of course not, Klee. I'm sure the real core of this domain is hidden away in a very safe place.

Somewhere like... over there, for example.

(Ah! I was so nervous that I didn't notice that big wheel at all!)

Wait! Who goes there!

Gurgle!

It's... It's the waterball monster! Ah, the waterball monster is real!

Gurgle...

It doesn't seem hostile... In fact, don't you think it looks happy to see us?

R—Really? Uh, you're sure it's not gonna gobble up Paimon whole?

Gurgle...

I don't think it's hungry! Are you, Water Droplet?

Gurgle...

Oh dear. I don't know about anyone else, but I'm not understanding a word of this.

Wait, don't go! Wait for us!

Gurgle...

Why'd it stop?

Maybe it can understand us after all?

Oh, I get it now! It's leading the way for us — just like the cats in Mondstadt!

Like the cats...? How so?

When you're walking around in Mondstadt city, sometimes a cat will show up on the side of the road.

It'll walk ahead of you for a while, and if you're curious enough to follow it, you'll soon find yourself in front of a fine establishment called:

The Cat's Tail!

Exactly. So let's see where this Water Droplet takes us. It could be interesting.

Gurgle.

Huh, another strange contraption... And there's a weird-looking wall over there.

This kinda looks like that ball of water we saw earlier...

Did the Water Droplet bring us here because it wants our help with something?

Gurgle...

What? Your friend is trapped in the wall!?

Gurgle...

Don't be sad, Water Droplet! We're here now, we'll save your friend!

You bet! But, how're we gonna save them? Do we have to break down this wall somehow?

Gurgle!

Nope, we can't do that! No breaking the wall.

Hmm... Do we need to find a key of some sort, then?

Gurgle!

Oh no! Where'd it go?

Look, the device has lit up. And it's projecting images onto the wall.

A two-dimensional space... with objects of the same composition as the device nested inside...

Yep! What Kaeya said! And that's where its friend is.

But how exactly do we enter the image on the wall?

Maybe... we just copy what the Water Droplet did?

Umm... But what does that mean?

Hold on, I think Klee's onto something.

Since the Water Droplet appears to be the key that activated the mechanism, we may be able to follow it inside simply by touching the device.

The principle is no different than how we entered this bottle domain.

Fair enough... Okay, deep breath, then head in!

It was flat as a pancake in there, but as soon as it came out, it turned all plump and round...

Hehe, guess it makes sense that the Water Droplet's friend is also a Water Droplet.

Aw, and they both do the same thing to show they're happy.

Ah, Water Droplet number two ran off...

Gurgle!

It's saying thank you, Mr. Honorary Knight, that was a huuuuge help.

It was nothing!

여행자, how do you feel after entering that two-dimensional space? Any... physical side effects?

You sure seem fine to Paimon.

Well, I'm just glad that you're okay.

Good thing Eula's here to look out for everyone... Can't say the same for you though, Kaeya. You were pretty quick to send the Traveler inside...

Hey now, I only suggested that because I was confident that 여행자 would be fine.

Water Droplet, is there anyone else here besides you and your friend?

Gurgle?

Yep, y'know, anyone who looks like me or my friends.

Gurgle!

Oh, it ran off again... Hopefully this is a good sign.

Amazing... C'mon, let's follow it!

Idyia, the situation is now critical. Our window of opportunity to fix this is rapidly closing.

I'm sure you've noticed just how much things have deteriorated in recent days.

B—But, even so...

This is your home. Are you really going to let everything fall to pieces?

I... Well, I live here, but it doesn't actually belong to me...

Huh? Paimon knows that voice...

Definitely sounds like someone we know.

Anyone else who comes into this domain in the future will take one look at the ruins before them and conclude that this place was abandoned years ago.

But just imagine how different things could be if you maintained this domain in perfect condition. Whoever sets foot inside would witness a magical wonderland...

How miraculous it would feel to them to find such unimaginable beauty in the middle of a lifeless desert.

*sigh* You're right, General, truly, but—

Act now, while you still can. You have to stand up to this, and break free from your despair.

The most important thing is to have no regrets in the end.

Huh... Heh, well... No one CHOOSES to have regrets, do they...

But I take your point... I'll try my best to stop running away.

But the question remains of where to begin...

Hehe, Paimon's figured out who it is.

Is it Mr. Honorary Knight's friend from a faraway land?

She's a Divine Priestess...

A divine priestess? What's that? Is it a kind of mage?

Gurgle...

What are you doing here? Huh...? We have new visitors?

Greetings, everyone. This is the Veluriyam Mirage, and I'm the caretaker, Idyia...

I'm so sorry that you have to see this domain in its current state of disarray. We are actively working on repairs, and everything will be back to normal shortly! Um, I hope...

Greetings, everyone. I guess I should introduce myself, too—

It's all right, just leave the introductions to me.

(Hmm? I kinda wanted to say hello in my own way... But no harm done, I guess I'll let her do the honors.)

This lady is a visitor to the domain, just like yourselves. She is a formidable military general.

Have any of you heard of Inazuma's "Onmyou Chamber"?

The... what chamber?

Onmyou chamber. It's an elite training academy for gifted students of Onmyoudou. Practitioners are divided into four classes, A through D, and assigned the power of shikigami based on their mastery of the art...

Ah... Wait...

This lady famously led the class D underdogs to victory against the class A favorites in the final mock-campaign before graduation, an astonishing feat that few in the history of the academy have ever achieved. Hence, "formidable general" is no exaggeration!

Isn't that right, General? Uh... What's wrong?

...

Huh? Wait, so the favorites were beaten by the... classy underdogs...? Paimon's not completely following...

...

(Those all sound like tropes from some Inazuman light novels!)

That doesn't sound like the "Divine Priestess" Mr. Honorary Knight was talking about.

(Uh-oh, did she just get caught lying in front of someone she was trying to impress? Or... maybe she uses a different identity in her private life, and this is the first time her friends are learning about it...)

(Seems... kind of embarrassing, but also kinda cool... I guess having someone else to introduce you is a good way to make an impression...)

(Hmm, maybe I'd fit in better with everyone if I had a title, too?)

Ahem... Some people call me a general, but it's just their way of showing respect. My actual name is Sangonomiya Kokomi.

Huh? Oh no... Sorry, my mistake, General... Uh, I mean... Miss Sangonomiya?

Call me whatever you like, Idyia. The only important thing about names is knowing who's who.

Oh, I get it now! It's like that story that Mom told me that time!

Gurgle?

Klee can explain! So basically, in the story, a big group of people go on an adventure to Bottleland. One of them's called the "king," and some of them are called "knights"!

So Miss Sangonomiya must be the super smart one who solves all the problems in the story... Um... What's that one called again?

Perhaps a "sage"?

Indeed, wisdom is an important attribute found in military generals.

Okay, well I'll just call you that! Hehe, Miss General it is!

Fine by me. It sounds really cute, coming from you.

(At least... cuter than my pen name, that's for sure...)

Well then, how should I address the rest of you?

Hehe, how could I ever forget you? But what about these esteemed ladies and gentlemen accompanying you? I'd be delighted if you could introduce me to them, too.

Wait, Klee wants a title, too! Hmm... okay, got it. Klee wants to be a Mage! The kind that flies around everywhere. Da-da-da! WHOOSH!

Kaeya can be the "Master Thief," Mr. Honorary Knight can be, uh... the "Knight." And Paimon will be the "Fairy" who follows the Knight everywhere.

Master Thief, huh? I did like playing pirates as a child, so I suppose this is an apt role for me. And I must admit, the "Master" part is a nice touch.

Hold on a second! Are you saying the position of "Knight" is now filled?

Eula can be the "Swordmaster," who can cut through anything and also gets to wear a super sparkly cape!

Hmph. That's more like it.

And Collei can be, umm... the "Healer."

...

...If you wanna be the Knight, we can swap.

No no, I don't mind, Healer is a great role! I just don't know if I'm qualified to be one...

Whenever I'm thinking of titles for myself, I usually imagine myself as an "adventurer" or "musician." I never thought I could be a Healer... I mean, it feels like it should be Master Tighnari's role, if anyone's...

Don't worry, Collei, you'll be the bestest healer ever! You don't talk much, but you're very kind. Just like the Healers in Mom's stories!

You'll do fine. I heard you're good with bandages. You can patch up a wound, can't you?

Uhh... I can pitch a tent? Maybe you heard wrong... But I'll do my best! It's my first day filling in for Master Tighnari, but hopefully it's the first of many!

This is a great idea... Once a new visitor arrives, they can assume a new identity... then add in some role-playing...

Oh, we can't leave you out, Miss Idyia! Hmm... There are lots of characters in Mom's stories, but you don't remind me of any of them...

That's perfectly okay! I already have a role here anyway, remember? I'm the caretaker.

I got it, I got it! This wasn't in any of the stories, but you can be the "Mascot!"

Mascot...?

Klee, maybe you could think up an even better role for Miss Idyia?

A mascot, you say... Isn't that a character that doesn't have to actually do anything, and sits around letting everyone else do all the important work? Incredible, you've seen right through me...

Sounds like the idea of being lazy is pretty exciting to her...

The Mascot serves to maintain troop morale, Idyia. Don't underestimate your role.

Ah, alright. I'll be the Mascot, then.

Gurgle?

That's right. Thank you for bringing these new friends here safely. You can go off and play now.

Thanks, Water Droplet! See ya!

Hmm, Water Droplet? Is that your pet name for it? Haha, I suppose it's as accurate a nickname as any.

We keep getting sidetracked... but I believe you were saying something about being in a difficult predicament. Is something wrong with the Veluriyam Mirage?

Ah yes, about that... I'm afraid the entire domain has recently sustained some significant damage...

It was as if... the whole world was suddenly flipped upside down. A few components went missing from the core, which sustains the domain, and the impact cascaded out from there.

Needless to say, many things in the Veluriyam Mirage have now stopped working...

Just days after I agreed to let my friend's daughter come and visit, too. When she gets here, and sees the state this place is in—

Oh, so you're Mom's friend? Hi, Aunty Desert, I'm Klee! Here, I brought the Magic Invite — see?

Huh? Wait, so you're... you're...!

Look how dilated her pupils are... She must be very surprised.

Yeah, and not in a good way...

Mom's the one who sent me here! She's the strongest mage ever. She said that her friend lives in the desert — you live in the desert, so that must be you! Right, Aunty Desert?

Ah, I see. So being a mage runs in the family.

Aaaah!!!

You're... you're Alice's daughter!? Oh, I just want the ground to swallow me up right now... Wait, that's it! I'll hide myself away in the core of the domain! Hide there until this all blows over. See you all in a hundred years!

Idyia's really going through it! She's like a shriveled little forest fungus, hanging its head in shame!

...Collei? That's a harsh analogy, where'd all that come from?

Don't worry, Aunty Desert, Klee's here to help you! And all my friends will help, too! Just take a deep breath, then another deep breath, and all your worries will fly away!

Klee's right. Many hands make light work...

Yeah, don't you worry — Sir Fixalot over here has a good track record with this kind of thing!

Well, I'm useless... but it looks like that won't matter with all you capable people around. Fantastic!

Don't put yourself down, Idyia, you're great too!

Thanks for your encouragement... Anyway, for the time being, please talk amongst yourselves.

That'll give me some time to think things through, and maybe make a start on... um, delegating...

Hey Idyia, you got an update for us? We've all caught up with each other.

Very well. Then please allow me, Idyia, your Mascot, to explain exactly what's happened here...

(She's pretty happy with this Mascot role, huh...)

Basically, this entire domain is powered by a device called the Central Hub, which you all saw earlier.

But following a major incident, several key components from the Central Hub came loose and went flying.

...Four components, I believe, which has caused the Central Hub to stop turning.

Ohhh, so that thing's supposed to spin?

Yes! It definitely shouldn't be frozen still like it is now! ...At least, that's not how it was when I first got here? Ugh, I've done such a terrible job of taking care of it, it's so embarrassing...

Hey, everything's gonna be okay. So, we need to fix the big wheel up there, and to do that we need to find the missing parts.

Right... I do know where one of the parts is. It landed not too far away.

But the rest all landed in different areas. I'm afraid you'll have to go and look for those...

Ahem! Now, as the caretaker and your mascot, I shall announce your respective adventure duties!

Umm... You can just be yourself if you want, no need to force the whole roleplaying thing...

...Oh, I see... Um, okay, so I was thinking that maybe Swordmaster Eula and Healer Collei could investigate the northern zone, if that's okay?

Fine by me. I was going to be looking for my cousin there anyway.

I'll be your backup, Eula. I know you usually team up with Amber, so I'll try my best to fill her shoes.

Oh? Well this'll be fun. Let's see if a forest ranger can outperform an outrider.

Master Thief Kaeya and Mage Klee, if you could earmark some time in your busy schedules to search the west zone...

Earmark? What does that mean?

It just means we mustn't forget to do it. Don't worry, we can handle that.

Finally, we have our General, Miss Sangonomiya, and our Knight, 여행자. If there's no objections, please come with me to retrieve the first component.

Alright. Well, if anyone finds anything, come back here and we'll regroup.

Please take care while you're out on the road, and look after each other... especially our little mage here.

You got it! I'll take extra-special care of Kaeya.

I'll be on my best behavior.

...

Okay, we'll leave it there for now. You two, please follow me.

What is this thing, anyway? Some kind of gear?

And why's it so small? It doesn't look like it belongs in that huge wheel...

It's hard to explain, but I assure you that it's definitely one of the components.

So that leaves three more components missing...

Every journey begins with a first step. I think we're off to a good start, and things should keep going smoothly from here.

Y—You really think so?

Of course, trust the General!

I suppose you're right... she did manage to defeat class A at the Onmyou chamber, after all...

Um... You, uh, don't need to keep bringing that up!

Anyway, thank you for all your help.

I'll take this and start trying to repair the Central Hub. You two may as well head back to town.

*sigh* Why am I so clumsy? Once again, I was no help at all... The least I can do is try and handle the actual repairs.

Hmm...

What's wrong, Kokomi?

I'm just a little confused... You mentioned that the Water Droplet showed you how to use the projector?

Can you tell me a little bit more about that? I'm so curious to know what happened.

Oh, sure!

I see...

Hey, look! The wheel is spinning now.

Aww, and now it's stopped again. Well, that didn't last long...

It also wasn't spinning at the right speed. Before the incident, it spun much faster than that.

Oh, so you saw it back when it was still working?

Yes. I arrived here a little earlier than the rest of you. But the incident took place not long after I entered.

Like Idyia said, it felt like the world was "flipped upside down"... I don't know how else to describe it... and I certainly don't want to experience it again.

*sigh* It's no use... Seems it won't run until all the missing components are returned.

For a moment there, when it started turning, I got excited... I thought that maybe the hub can work just fine without the other three...

Wishful thinking is only going to lead to disappointment, Idyia. Let's stick to the plan, we'll get there.

Hey, Mr. Honorary Knight and Miss General are here! Oh, and our mascot!

You beat us! I was sure we were gonna be the first ones back!

Hey. How'd it go?

Haha. Impressive. I doubt you'd find many other knights of such caliber even among the Knights of Favonius.

How about our Master Thief and Mage? Did you find anything?

You bet! We made a huuuge discovery!

The place we were trying to get to was blocked off. We couldn't see anything past it, and there was no way around.

But then, just now, a huge canyon appeared outta nowhere... so we hurried back here!

It appeared just now?

...

Come and see, Mr. Honorary Knight! Let's go on a canyon adventure!

To the canyon!

I'll sit this one out. I'm beat after trying to make those repairs... I need to take a break.

Miss General, you should come, too! You can hide behind me and give me smart advice while I protect you!

Wonderful. It would be an honor to serve as adviser for our young mage.

Hee-hee, let's go!!!

Okay, this is the spot.

Now, I'm sure you're both wondering: "But where's the component?"

"There's nothing here! Oh, where could it be..."

Oh, it's that lamp thingy, right? Water Droplet showed us how that works already.

Uh... yes, that's the one... There goes my big introduction.

Showing people the ropes is supposed to be my job... I can't believe I'm being shown up by a Hydro Eidolon...

Cheer up, Idyia. The Hydro Eidolon can give a basic demonstration of how to use things, but beyond that, it can't communicate...

That's where you come in. Your descriptions can explain everything in full, vivid detail.

Paimon forgot how persuasive Kokomi can be when she really wants to... Sometimes having a genius strategist around really comes in handy.

(Now I see how an eloquent speaker can persuade others to not only agree with them, but do things for them...)

Oh, if you put it that way... Well then, just pretend like you've never seen it before, and I'll tell you all about it!

This is called the Streaming Projector. Everything here in the Veluriyam Mirage was made using this device...

All you need to do is place an item in the Projector, and you can construct a corresponding item based on the shape of the original and your imagination.

...At least, I think that's what it used to do. With the domain in its current state, only its most basic functions are still operable.

Basic functions... like shining light?

Okay, not quite that basic... At the moment, it's only able to show two-dimensional objects. I call them "preprints."

Think of it like a sort of draft or blueprint, or something.

So you're saying, the component fell into the preprints?

Yes, exactly. I'll leave you to go in and physically retrieve it, while I... Uh, I'll be out here rooting for you by... by doing a motivational dance!

Really?

...No. Sorry. I feel like I have two left feet when I try to dance. I guess I'll just... find a place nearby to sit and wait patiently for you...

Hey, come on, cheer up. We'll handle everything from here!

All you need to do is touch the Streaming Projector and you'll enter the world of preprints...

Don't worry. It's not dangerous.

Hmm? Who else has visited the Veluriyam Mirage recently? There was someone from the Akademiya who came not long ago... a Kshahrewar scholar. Blond hair, architect, I think?

He was a huge help, and redesigned many of the buildings here. Although he was always grumbling to himself, he was extremely diligent in his work. Ah... What a kind person...

I could tell that was a sensitive soul, a lot like me... Ah! Sorry, please pretend you didn't hear that... Ahem! I'm of course a very strong and resilient person.

After him, an aristocrat from Mondstadt showed up, then the Gen— I mean, Miss Sangonomiya.

Unfortunately, everything here suddenly started changing before I'd had the chance to be a good host and show them around.

Do you know where the Mondstadt aristocrat is now?

...If I remember correctly, he headed north after the incident.

It's a pity we're having all these issues... *sigh* If we could get everything working normally again, I could probably locate him in an instant.

Still, not to worry. There's nothing dangerous here.

Mm...

Hi Miss General! Mr. Honorary Knight says that you're from Watatsumi Island...

What's it like there? There must be loooads of fish, right?

Wait! You look kinda like a mermaid. Are there fish in your family?

Oh, uh... Sorry to disappoint you, Miss Mage, but I'm just an ordinary human.

I have lots of great stories about Watatsumi Island, though. C'mon, let's enjoy the scenery while I tell you all about it.

Feeling nervous, Collei? It's your first time as a guide, after all.

Hmm? Oh no, not at all. I'm just... still settling into the role, so I was thinking about how to talk more like Master Tighnari...

Well, the easiest way to imitate someone is to start with their most common turns of phrase.

Oh, okay. In that case... Ahem! "Put that mushroom down! Now! It's highly poisonous."

There you go. With just a few simple words, you've captured your master's personality perfectly.

Anyway, what about your role? Don't you mind being the "Master Thief"? It doesn't sound like you're one of the good guys...

Maybe not — until you factor in that I only steal from the enemy. I think that's enough to make me one of the good guys... don't you?

Oh, uh... fair point, fair point...

Here it is, here it is! See? This canyon wasn't here before!

Just before the canyon appeared, I heard a faint sound, like something mechanical turning.

Ker-chunk, ker-chunk, ker-chunk!

Could it have been the Central Hub? Mm, that would mean this canyon appeared after it started spinning...

Hey, you... Oh, new guys, huh?

Oh, hey... Paimon didn't realize anyone else besides Idyia lived here!

You actually saw her? Hmph, she's barely shown her face since everything started falling apart here.

Excuse me for asking, but... who are you?

Oh right, I didn't introduce myself. I'm Ferdinand. Me and my brothers look after this whole zone.

Well, we used to. Until this whole domain was... like, flipped upside-down, or whatever. The method we were using to make the carts and tracks stopped working after that...

Idyia is working on repairing the domain. We were just with her before coming here.

Really...? Huh. I assumed that she'd be curled up in a fetal position somewhere, hoping all her problems will magically disappear on their own... Good for her.

Anyway, I checked all the stations around the whole circuit...they've all conked out.

Conked out how? Would you mind elaborating a little for us?

Uh... But aren't you just travelers who stumbled upon this place by accident?

Nuh-uh! I'm Mage Klee, Idyia's helper!

...A Mage? You?

Allow me to explain...

Okay, I gotcha... Well, right now, the more helpers we got, the better, I guess...

Anyway, our first priority is to get the carts here up and running again.

Oh? And why is that?

The roads here twist and turn so much that the best way to get around is by riding the rail tracks instead...

Lemme show you... This is what we use to make them. Did Idyia bring you up to speed on these things?

It is a Streaming Projector, right?

Yep. Basically, we need something that we can put inside that'll make a cart for us.

Umm... like what? Can it be anything as long as it looks like a cart?

Yeah, you could put it that way. But one other thing is that it has to be compatible with the tracks.

So something like... a sedan chair, maybe? Hmm, but I'm not sure we have all the materials required to build one of those...

How about you, 여행자? Any ideas?

Hmm, that would solve the issue of materials.

Wood's no good. A rickety wooden cart would be too dangerous.

Really? ....Hey, everyone, come and see what Klee made!

Tada! Look, I made a cart!

Wow! Amazing work, Klee!

Whoa... It fits the track like a glove, too!

Plus... it's a heck of a lot cuter than the ones Idyia made!

Well done, Klee!

Hee-hee, I just wanted to give it a try. Then suddenly, boom! There it was!

...Paimon's gotta ask — what exactly did you make your cart from, Klee?

I used Jumpy Dumpty!

Aha! Thought so...

Hmm? Is there a problem, or something? If not, then let's get ready to leave.

It's just... this cart is made from, um...

Don't worry!

It's a bomb or something, isn't it? Yeah, I gathered from your conversation that Jumpy Dumpty is a little more volatile than the cute name suggests.

It's okay, though, 'cause the end product only takes on the general look of the source material. Uh, so to be more specific, while different materials have different properties, most of them aren't transferred to—

It's okay! No need to delve into the theoretical stuff!

Paimon just wanted to make sure we aren't about to end up like the, uh, "flying fish" of Starfell Lake...

...Huh...

Can we ride the cart now?

In a moment. We need a Hydro Eidolon to power it up first.

Gurgle!

Okay, she's ready to roll. Hop in!

The track is damaged up ahead. We need to make some repairs before we can go any further...

Yep, looks like it's all reverted to a preprint state here.

Do you know why that happened?

Everything in this domain starts as a preprint and only takes shape after being illuminated by the Streaming Projector.

But the Hydro Eidolon that forms the tracks here has been trapped in the print...

So someone needs to go into the preprint and rescue the Hydro Eidolon. Right?

But the projector here's sealed off by a giant bubble.

That's the Hydro Eidolon's way of protecting the device from damage... If the Streaming Projector broke, then we'd be seriously stuck.

Aha! So for step one, we need Water Droplet to help!

Gurgle...

Aww, it seems to really like that name!

Gurgle!

Um... Any volunteers for step two...?

Leave that to us. We know what to do!

Oh, there's another spinny thing here... It's so big!

But uh, not as big as the one we saw in the middle of this place. That one was HUGE!

I bet it's something super important... I remember what Kaeya said earlier!

Very good, Klee! You're using what you saw earlier to make observations, like a real adventurer.

Hmm, it appears to be a system that rotates to switch tracks.

That's right. Originally, all you had to do was flip this switch, and the junction would rotate.

Hmph, but it seems Jeroney still hasn't fixed it yet. He sure talks big but when it comes to actually getting things done...

Is this "Jeroney" you mentioned one of your brothers?

Yeah, when I talked to him about repairing the tracks, I suggested we start with the station, but he said we should start at the junction...

Really, it made no difference which one we started with, but he just had to turn it into a huge argument... He always treats me like I'm a fool and disagrees with anything I say.

Hmph, let's see what he has to say now that I've already fixed the tracks.

If you ask me, you're clearly a sharp person, Ferdinand.

Yes! Finally, someone who can recognize that rather than just shrugging off my ideas! Come on, let's make our way to the junction and see what he's up to. I bet he's still fretting over what to do.

*sigh* Everything will get better once we get the switcher working again.

Hmph, still stuck here just as I expected. Well, did you make any progress?

Didn't I already tell you? Just have the Hydro Eidolons fix the junction and then make a new cart. After that, we can use the junction to...

Wait a minute, how did you get here? It took a lot of effort for me to climb all the way up here.

The answer is standing right in front of you.

Hah, yeah sure. Those travelers must have helped you.

You never get anything done on your own. You always get someone else's help, and then try to take the credit for yourself.

You're one to talk. What have you managed to accomplish, huh? You were here just moping around all day!

Whoa... They started arguing the moment they saw each other. But aren't they supposed to be brothers?

Hah, me? His brother? Hardly!

*sigh* Alright, Jeroney... That's enough.

Ugh, fine. I'd rather be focusing my efforts on fixing the track switch rather than arguing anyway.

You should calm down too, Ferdinand. Let's all focus on the situation at hand, any personal problems can be settled later.

...Fine.

I'm sorry you had to see that... My name's Jeroney. I'm one of the people responsible for taking care of this area.

I assume you're the ones who helped repair the tracks... Thank you very much, it means a lot.

No need to thank us. We're just trying to help Idyia restore the domain.

I see. Now that you and Ferdinand brought the cart up here, we'll need the Hydro Eidolons to fix the area below.

Them again, huh? Seems the Hydro Eidolons are really important around this place.

Yes, of course. Not only do they keep the junction turning, they operate practically everything else in the domain, too.

Alright, seems most of the tracks and junctions have been repaired now.

Yep. So maybe it's time you give credit where credit is due, hmm?

What, you think you deserve the credit!? If anything, we should be thanking these travelers.

Ugh, you... Well, either way, you're not the one getting any credit!

You're always quick to criticize my ideas and push your own, but you never actually get anything done.

And what about you? Don't forget that it was Haddo and I who took care of the mess that one time you impulsively tried one of your brilliant ideas!

Ah, speaking of Haddo... Wasn't he with you?

I left early this morning, I assumed he'd be with you.

Seriously? Couldn't you have at least looked to see where he was before you left!?

Hey c'mon... You didn't see him either, so what's your excuse!?

*whimper*...

Klee?

I don't get it...

Nobody did anything bad, why are they arguing?

I, uh... I just don't like his smug attitude, that's all.

Who are you calling smug? If anything, you're the one who's making such a big fuss right now!

Alright, I think we've heard enough from you two.

If you insist on bickering, then I'd suggest you go somewhere else, otherwise, I'll just cool you two off myself.

...

...

Now, come with me. I'd like to have a word with you.

Whew...

Don't be upset Klee... There are many complicated situations in this world which don't always have a logical explanation.

As a passing traveler here, it's not my place to comment on their disputes...

But in my experience, family issues can be the toughest to resolve.

Seems you don't like dealing with this kind of thing either, Kokomi.

Who would?

But... it's still not right.

I don't know how to explain my feelings...

I'm sorry, we've calmed down. We shouldn't argue in front of a child like that.

We're sorry, Klee.

It's okay...

Back to the topic at hand, weren't you about to go look for your brother, Haddo?

Ah, right. Our best guess is that he's somewhere around Torrential Twister.

We would have to use the junction to send the cart to another area.

Sorry to trouble you again, but would you help us find him?

As long as you promise not to argue.

Oh, all right...

Ah, I guessed you had repaired the tracks and stations as soon as I saw a cart come zipping along. *sickly cough*

Now that the tracks, station, and carts are all repaired, we're about ready to reopen Torrential Twister. It'll be good to see my design back in action again.

*sigh* You're in no condition to be out running around like this, Haddo.

Yeah, but these are unusual circumstances... *cough*

That's true, but you should stop to think things through.

Exactly! If there's anything that needs to be done, you can just let Ferdinand and I take care of it.

Haha, you and Ferdinand? Together? It would be a miracle for you two to do anything together without fighting.

Hey! That's between Jeroney and me. No need to add fuel to the fire, okay?

I'm not trying to make trouble, I'm just saying... *cough*

Hey, Ferdinand...

Oh, uh... Don't worry, we're not arguing, Klee. We're just, uh... discussing some things.

Are you and Jeroney worried about Haddo?

...

Why don't you just talk to him about it?

Kaeya's also worried about me sometimes, but he doesn't ever criticize me.

You're right, but our relationship is much better than these guys.

Uh, well... our situation is a little different.

Really? How so?

We've been through this kind of thing before... if we didn't warn Haddo, then he wouldn't take it seriously and something would eventually happen.

As his brothers, we have to help him...

But it doesn't look like you're helping...

...

Maybe Klee doesn't understand everything...

But my Mommy told me that you help someone to make THEM feel happy, not to make yourself happy.

Haddo sure doesn't look very happy. Why don't you ask him what he needs?

...

Klee's right, you know. You three need to open up and talk things through, you are brothers, after all.

...

I, uh... Ahem, I've always cared a lot about you, Haddo.

Just like when we were back in the desert... You suddenly passed out, and Jeroney and I started arguing. Eventually, all three of us ended up in this domain.

I'm just worried that something similar could happen again. If you were to pass out and with nobody around to help you...

I know, but this domain is nowhere near as dangerous as the desert.

I was thinking that if I could handle these problems myself, then you two wouldn't have to argue about anything.

If it weren't for my poor health and lack of energy all the time, then I wouldn't have always been such a burden on you two.

No need to feel guilty, Haddo. This was our choice. The three of us love adventuring, no one is a burden on anyone.

Isn't that why we came up with the idea for this area? I would do the thinking, Ferdinand would use his muscle, and you would...

"Draw the blueprints and build tracks. It'll be a safe way to see all kinds of amazing scenery." Yes, that was the plan.

Hehe. See? Doesn't it feel better to just get along?

Hey what are ya tryin' to say!? You make it sound like I've only been trying to talk myself up.

The Choo-Choo Cart is great, Ferdinand!

Really?

You know, Klee... Having the cart zip along the tracks was my idea.

Yeah, what an amazing idea. You're so smart!

Hey Klee, do you want to ride even more fun carts?

Yay, let's ride more!

Looks like all three of them are trying to win Klee's approval now.

And Klee is loving it.

Klee hasn't realized it yet, but her innocent, childlike nature is very powerful. It can inspire and even help heal others.

Hey everyone, please come with me. We need to get the Hydro Eidolon in the cart to help us.

Haddo and I have double-checked everything, it's all operating safely. You can go for a ride now!

Hold on a sec... Before we say goodbye, I have something I'd like to give you all.

It's a rock climbing rope. We used it on our adventures to climb mountains and traverse many places.

Huh? But doesn't it mean a lot to you? Are you sure you want to give it to us?

Yes, of course. Please take it.

Thanks to Klee and everyone else's help, we realized that there is a special bond that keeps us together. Even though it's invisible, it's even more important than rope, and we can always hold on to it in tough situations.

Huh? I helped?

Yes, Klee. You were a big help.

Even bigger than that huge thing in the middle of this place?

Yes, much bigger.

Wow, that's huge! I'm so happy!

By the way, have you ever seen anything like the Choo-Choo Cart in the outside world?

Nope! Today was the first time I rode anything like it.

Is that so? *cough* I guess I'm not surprised. Seems you won't find a Streaming Projector anywhere else.

Be sure to come back and ride the Choo-Choo Carts again while you still have the chance.

Yep! I will!

That's so much fun! Klee can fly across the sky like a real mage now!

Uh... Guess that... sort of makes sense?

Wait — but if being able to fly makes you a mage, what does that make Kaeya? Since he's here too...

Nothing, Kaeya's just the Master Thief. Don't you remember, Paimon?

...

Oh right... Guess it slipped Paimon's mind.

Sorry to bother our young Mage, but there's something the Master Thief would like to report. Do you still remember our mission?

Uh-oh!

I was having so much fun that I almost forgot...

We're supposed to be helping Idyia look for the missing components. But don't worry, I've already got one.

You mean you snatched it when we weren't looking?

Haha, I didn't have to go that far.

In fact, the component we were searching for was actually that orange rope. If anything, you could say it came right into our hands at the right time. Let's head back and give it to Idyia.

Aww, do we really have to go...?

Okay... Even though I want to keep playing, I know Idyia is really important!

That's our wise mage... Don't worry, tonight you'll be able to see stars in the water and watch fish dance in the sky.

Uh, seems Kokomi's out of it after that ride... Her face is completely blank, and her lip was trembling while she was speaking. Maybe we should have a rest for a while.

We're in no rush.

You shouldn't push yourself.

Ah? I thought I was keeping my composure pretty well...

Don't worry, my mind is always spinning, I'm used to this! We should head back to Idyia.

How about we hold hands, Miss General? Klee will give you energy!

(Huh, after holding Klee's hand, the stars in the sky and the fish in the water have all disappeared. I must have been seeing things from riding in the cart... Whew.)

Hmm? What are you smiling about, Kokomi?

Huh? Oh, ah... Ahem, nothing... nothing at all.

Welcome back! Well? Any good news? Ah! Don't tell me! You've taken care of all the problems and now I don't have to do anything!?

Yeah, we even rode the Choo-Choo Cart! Do you wanna come ride too?

Uh, but maybe you'll have to wait till tomorrow. I'm a little tired now...

Seems she had a little too much fun and now she's about to crash. Haha, I think it's time for a rest.

Good idea, I think we could all use some down time. Thanks for giving me some energy, Klee.

Then we'll see you later.

Bye, Klee.

Bye, Mr. Honorary Knight! Bye, everyone!

Well, it sounds like our young mage enjoyed herself. I'm happy that she had a good time.

So, back to the missing component. Did you bring it?

You bet! Kaeya said that the missing component was this orange climbing rope.

Ah, it just occurred to me that you probably ran into the three brothers while you were in the canyon.

If I remember correctly, the two eldest brothers were taking their sickly younger brother on adventures, when they ran into a sandstorm and ended up here.

They were all arguing with one other when they first arrived, but it wasn't long before they broke down and were huddled together in tears.

*sigh* They sure must have a lot of energy to keep up their bickering and adventuring every day. I'm a little worried about them, yet quite envious of all that energy...

You almost sound as if you're reminiscing about old friends, Idyia.

Yes, I've known them for quite some time, after all... But I seldom go to that area.

You can hold on to the rope for now, 여행자. I have no use for it until we have the other components.

By the way, Eula and Collei have also returned, but I'm afraid they weren't able to make much headway.

They mentioned that they would like to head to the jungle north of here once you have all rested up.

Understood.

Now that I've told you everything, I'll go rest... Uh, I mean, I'll go and check on the situation in the remaining two areas.

Do you need me to accompany you?

Oh! No, it's alright. You've already accomplished a lot today, you should rest up.

Be sure to come back and visit Torrential Twister again... I hope you enjoyed it!

Thanks again. I have a feeling we'll get along much better now that we've learned to open up to each other.

I suppose some things are simpler than they appear... The real problem all along was actually us.

Hey, imagine if we could build our tracks all over the world. Traveling would be so much easier! *cough*