Chapter IV: Act V

Masquerade of the Guilty

Quest List

Meeting Is Also Parting Hunters, Prophets Apocalypse Deluge of Wrathful Waters The Opera of Noirceur and Blancheur Finale

Meeting Is Also Parting

Acting on intelligence from The Knave, your group arrives at the ruins...

Go to the ruins

Paimon:

So are these the ruins that The Knave was talking about? Whoa, talk about old...

Navia:

They seem to be pretty ancient, alright.

Paimon:

Let's go in and have a look.

Navia:

Just be careful!

Search the ruins

Paimon:

This place has also been contaminated by Primordial Seawater.

Navia:

Yeah, and a lot of it, too. A Fontainian would most likely dissolve the moment they fell in.

Traveler:

You should go back to safety, Navia.

Paimon:

Right, you can't go down if there's Primordial Seawater. It's too dangerous, and it won't be any help for you to just stay here.

Paimon:

Uh, don't get Paimon wrong... We're not saying you're useless! It's just that...

Navia:

No, you're right. I can't do anything in this situation. I'll leave this to you.

Paimon:

We'll handle it! Just head back and be careful on the way out.

Navia:

That complicates things... Maybe the only way left is forward.

Paimon:

In that case, do you want to wait for us here?

Navia:

The water levels here are unstable and there's a chance the water will rise... so staying here wouldn't be safe either.

Navia:

I'll go together with you — perhaps we'll find the exit just up ahead.

Traveler:

Seems like there isn't any other option.

Paimon:

Alright, come with us for now, then. But please, be careful!

Keep moving

As you step onto the bridge, the ground begins to give way. You flee to the other side, but the collapse is too quick, and Navia misses a step, falling from the bridge. You leap after her, reaching out to grab her hand, but she falls in before you can grasp her...

Talk to everyone

Navia opens her eyes to familiar faces before her.

Navia:

...

???:

Ahem... Demoiselle.

Navia:

Huh...?

Melus:

Demoiselle, what are you doing here by yourself? Would you be standing here till dark if I hadn't come to get you?

Silver:

Maybe she just wants some time to herself, Melus.

Navia:

Hmm? Oh, was I... Was I sleeping?

Melus:

Yes, it would appear so.

Navia:

Ugh... I must be tired.

Silver:

That's quite possible. However, you were the one that suggested we go out for a walk.

Navia:

Oh, right... I nearly forgot.

Navia:

*yawn* It must have slipped my mind when I dozed off. I haven't had a nap today yet, have I?

Navia:

(This is a familiar feeling... Yet, something's a little strange.)

Silver:

Is something the matter, Demoiselle?

Navia:

Oh, no... No, I'm fine.

Navia:

I was just trying to recall why we came out for a walk.

Melus:

Do you remember Mr. Giverny? He'd requested our help before with foreign merchants who had a debt dispute with him, and we'd resolved the matter not long ago.

Silver:

We were headed to see how things were going with him at the moment.

Navia:

Ah, right. Yes, I remember now.

Giverny:

Oh? Miss Navia! Ah, and Mr. Melus and Mr. Silver too, haha! It's good to see all of you.

Navia:

How have you been?

Giverny:

I've been great. Thanks to your help, those bothersome merchants finally realized that I wasn't the one they were looking for — why, I wasn't even the guarantor for that person!

Giverny:

They were knocking at my door day and night... Even my neighbor, Aubenas, was getting fed up with them!

Melus:

Sometimes, force is required to calm someone down and get them to listen to what you have to say.

Giverny:

Haha, that's right. Oh, by the way, Bernette... What was it that you wanted to give to Miss Navia, again?

Bernette:

Oh, yes. One moment, I have it right here.

Bernette:

Miss Navia, these are some flower seeds that I prepared. Please, take them. They're a very good variety, and they'll become very big and beautiful once they bloom.

Bernette:

I don't know what we would have done without your help, so this is a little token of our appreciation. I hope you won't refuse!

Navia:

Did you cultivate them yourself? Thank you so much — I'll certainly take them. Melus, we do still have some empty flower pots at home, right?

Melus:

Why, we can have as many pots as you'd like, Demoiselle.

Navia:

Perfect — in that case, we'll swap out some of the decorative plants for some of Mrs. Bernette's flowers...

Melus:

Very well.

Navia:

(Wait, something seems to be off here...)

Navia:

Excuse me, Madam. If I'm not mistaken, your name is Bernette, correct?

Bernette:

That's right. Is something wrong?

Navia:

No, it's nothing. This is the first time we've ever met, but your name seemed familiar to me. I must have heard it when I was discussing things with your husband previously.

Navia:

(I've heard this name before... sometime recently. I'm sure of it...)

Navia:

(And why are there so few people around here? Where did everyone go?)

Silver:

We must mind the time, Demoiselle. We still have important things to attend to today.

Navia:

Hmm? We do? Like what?

Melus:

Well, now, did you forget?

Melissa:

Miss Navia! Here you are! I've been looking for you... Please come to the opera house — your trial is about to begin.

Navia:

My trial? Wait... Wh—Why would I need to go to the opera house?

Silver:

Yes, she's right, Demoiselle. It's just about time now, so we should get going.

Navia:

Oh? Alright then...

Go to the opera house

Essonnes:

Look, it's Navia! She's here!

Jolienne:

And her two attendants are with her. Goodness, everyone's finally here!

Navia:

(There sure are a lot of people here to see the trial, and they all seem to be oddly... excited about something. I even know some of these people.)

Navia:

(Korina, Desyree, Joinville, Jolienne, Essonnes... Why are so many people here? And why do I have no recollection of this case?)

Navia:

(And as for the judge... Huh? Where's Monsieur Neuvillette?)

Melus:

Please sit in the defendant's seat. Don't worry, Silver and I shall accompany you.

Navia:

Alright... But are you sure you can stand behind me?

Melus:

Typically, it wouldn't be allowed, but today is an exception.

All:

Hey, what kind of place do they think this is... C'mon, do they have any idea what they're doing!? Seriously...

Navia:

Enough with the whispering! Could someone please tell me where Monsieur Neuvillette is, and why I'm standing trial?

Joinville:

My dear Miss Navia, have you not yet realized what you've done? In that case, allow me to explain.

Joinville:

As all here know, you are Master Callas's successor, the head of the Spina di Rosula — someone held in high regard by every soul in Poisson.

Joinville:

After you took over the Spina, you treated all of us just like the late Master Callas had. If anyone in need reached out to you for help, you responded.

Joinville:

Not only you, but your butler, your subordinates... Nearly everyone in the Spina di Rosula fought for the well-being of those in Poisson.

Navia:

Wait a moment. Aren't you just proving that I'm a good person?

Joinville:

Yes, correct, absolutely right! And that is why you stand accused! You have helped so many people get through so many difficulties — you are one with us... we are inseparable.

Joinville:

We are one big family, all of us who are from Poisson, inextricably linked — and with you being so important... We couldn't possibly do without you.

Joinville:

Therefore, this fair and honorable court shall declare you guilty, and you shall stay here. You will be together with us — forever.

Navia:

Huh? What are you saying...?

Navia:

Ah... Everything you have said is correct. I have indeed done a lot for my hometown, and I would be willing to be with you all... But what is the purpose of having me stand here like this? What is there to discuss?

Joinville:

Oh... Well, if that's what you think, then I have no further comments.

Jolienne:

How wonderful, Miss Navia.

Essonnes:

...

Desyree:

...

Navia:

(I know all these people... Why are they laughing?)

Silver:

Huh. I seem to remember now... Yes, I get it. This trial is...

Melus:

Wait just a moment... This isn't right!

Navia:

Melus?

Joinville:

What was that, Mr. Melus? Our conclusion is very clear and unanimous. Let the court judge her now! She's guilty!

All:

Stay here, Navia! You're one of us!

Silver:

Demoiselle, don't admit guilt. This trial means to keep you here forever.

Melus:

I wish to exercise my right to defend our lady. Mr. Joinville, you only know of Navia's goodness, but nothing of her utterly independent mind.

Silver:

She was born a free and independent spirit. She has never been tied down by anything — indeed, even the death of Master Callas couldn't stop her.

Melus:

Her actions cannot serve as proof that she identifies herself as part of any group. She merely acted as an individual, extending her hand to help others.

Melus:

Please do not mistake her actions as being otherwise.

Joinville:

Really? As an individual, you say? Don't forget, we are all Fontainians here... This is the Nation of Justice, the Nation of Hydro.

Joinville:

Even if Miss Navia only voluntarily rendered her assistance, that doesn't change the fact that her beautiful soul must return to everyone. Water accepts all, blends with all... It will surely accept her kindness.

Joinville:

Everything is measured here in the Nation of Hydro. And in the end, everyone shall meld together. Thus, when a unanimous opinion emerges, that opinion represents justice.

Joinville:

Now, I speak for everyone. "Our" opinion is consistent — Navia should stay. "We" and Navia are one!

Melus:

And you would call this justice? Preposterous. You are merely jealous that Demoiselle still has a chance to exist as an individual!

Melus:

Have you forgotten how much you all once longed to become individuals... to become independent?

All:

Do you mean to defy our justice?

Silver:

If your justice is flawed, then why should we acknowledge it?

Melus:

As you said, we can also have our own justice. Silver and I shall defend Demoiselle.

Melus:

And that is how we will enforce justice.

Navia:

(Ugh, my head... it hurts...)

Silver:

Demoiselle.

Navia:

Silver, it hurts... My head is spinning... All I can see is stars swirling in front of me.

Navia:

(I remember now... everything that seemed odd from the very beginning...)

Navia:

(Korina, Desyree, Joinville, Jolienne, Essonnes... And Mr. Giverny and Mrs. Bernette, who we met earlier...)

Navia:

(Even Melus and Silver... I don't want to admit it, but... But they're all dead!)

Silver:

Don't be afraid, and don't admit guilt. We will protect you to the very end.

Desyree:

Absurd! Who are you to say that she cannot be judged!? We are the majority, and in the Nation of Trials, the majority is absolute justice. We are the will of all!

Jolienne:

Don't let them escape! We shall keep Navia here with us!

Joinville:

Mr. Melus and Mr. Silver... Must you be so stubborn?

Joinville:

How could the two of you possibly hope to stand against the collective? Do not resist — this judgment is fair and just... Navia belongs to "us."

Joinville:

After all that happened, she should not be left alone in Poisson.

The crowd suddenly takes on the form of Oceanids.

Navia:

What are you saying!?

Desyree:

No more excuses!

Essonnes:

He says we're jealous... Jealous, hah! How could she possibly be an independent individual?

Navia:

What's with these people...

All:

Who's jealous of her? She belongs to us! Miss... Navia... She...

???:

Silence!

Jolienne:

Huh! That's...

Navia:

Monsieur Neuvillette!

Neuvillette:

Such commotion is prohibited in the court. The accusations you just presented are nonsense, and cannot constitute a proper trial.

Neuvillette:

The court will adjourn for the rest of the day — in this, I shall hear no objections from any unauthorized party.

Melus:

Our thanks, Monsieur Neuvillette.

Neuvillette:

Please leave with me, Miss Navia, while there is still time.

Navia:

But...

Melus:

Go on now, Demoiselle. This is your only chance to leave this place. What, can't bear to leave us behind or something?

Silver:

Melus!

Melus:

Haha, my apologies. I couldn't resist making one little joke once I realized that this shall be our last goodbye.

Navia:

Melus... Silver...

For an instant, they all seem to have transformed into Oceanids, only to return to their original forms afterwards.

Neuvillette:

Quickly, you must come now!

Melus:

Goodbye, Demoiselle.

Silver:

Farewell.

Continue investigating the ruin

Navia is shocked awake.

Navia:

No, wait! Just a second!

Paimon:

Ah! Navia!

Neuvillette:

You're awake. Good.

Navia:

...

Navia:

I must have been dreaming... Melus and Silver were still alive, and they were... they were defending me at some insane trial.

Neuvillette:

It looks like you're alright.

Paimon:

Did all the sad feelings cause you to have a nightmare? Paimon... could give you a hug...

Neuvillette:

The ruins you were exploring suffered a cave-in. When I arrived, I found you falling toward the water.

Neuvillette:

You were just about to be dissolved within, but I... Hmm.

Navia:

Hmm? ...What is it?

Neuvillette:

...I think I saw two Oceanids protecting you. It was only for a moment, perhaps even a fraction of a second, but they gave me the chance to retrieve you.

Neuvillette:

Were it not for their intervention, I would not have been able to rescue you before your consciousness dissipated.

Paimon:

Wait, did you say Oceanids? You mean like what happened with Vacher?

Traveler:

So people that are dissolved became Oceanids?

Neuvillette:

Perhaps those two Oceanids were the people you saw in your dream.

Navia:

...

Navia:

I always told them that they didn't have to protect me... To think that they'd keep doing so even after death...

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

Traveler, please come with me.

Paimon:

Neuvillette, are you okay?

Neuvillette:

Huh? Oh, I am quite alright. Perhaps there's something we could chat about...

Paimon:

Why do you look so stiff all of a sudden?

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon knows! You're the type who feels awkward when there's nothing to talk about, right?

Neuvillette:

I merely thought that we should give Navia some time to herself.

Paimon:

Huh? Why didn't you just say so, then? Don't you think it's even more awkward to call us over like this and then have nothing to talk about?

Neuvillette:

Hmm, I suppose so...

Traveler:

By the way, Sigewinne sends her regards.

Neuvillette:

Ah, Sigewinne. I hope all is well with her these days. Her work in the Fortress of Meropide has not been too much for her, has it?

Paimon:

No way, don't worry. She's doing fine down there. She's an amazing head nurse!

Neuvillette:

I see. Well, that is good. I have always worried that Sigewinne would need a lot of time to understand the world of humanity, just as I have.

Paimon:

Oh, and the Duke also says hi, even though Sigewinne made him do that... He hopes that you haven't been overwhelmed by all that's happened lately.

Neuvillette:

Thank you. I have indeed been busy lately, and I also hope that everything is going well in the Fortress of Meropide.

Paimon:

Ugh. He still doesn't know what to talk about... Let's chat about something else, then.

Traveler:

You're the expert here, Paimon, what should we talk about?

Paimon:

So, Neuvillette... Uh, you're probably quite the swimmer, huh?

Neuvillette:

Hmm? Yes, of course.

Paimon:

Ugh, this isn't going anywhere... Let's try something else! How did you find these ruins? Did The Knave tell you?

Neuvillette:

Yes, in fact. I had arranged to meet you in Poisson, but when I arrived, I discovered that the Fatui were helping the residents evacuate. They had even transported a large quantity of supplies to the area.

Neuvillette:

Amid my astonishment, I ran into The Knave, and we had a chat. She informed me that she had asked you to investigate the ancient ruins here.

Paimon:

Yeah. We originally planned to meet up with you, but we thought you might still be busy with all those official documents. We didn't think exploring the ruins would take very long, and who would've thought you'd wrap things up so quickly.

Traveler:

(I hope Navia can get back on her feet.)

Navia:

Whew, I'm sorry to have kept you all waiting like that. I'm feeling much better now.

Navia:

I guess we should get going again. Will you come with us, Monsieur Neuvillette?

Neuvillette:

Yes, if you wouldn't mind my company.

Paimon:

Alright, another one joins the party! Let's get going then!

Investigate the space ahead

Paimon:

Looks like we've reached the end...

Neuvillette:

This is the place. There should not be any other hidden spaces in the vicinity.

Navia:

The path sure had some twists and turns, but it turns out that this place isn't actually that big.

Traveler:

There seems to be something on the wall.

Paimon:

Stone slates? It seems like they were put here as an offering... Could we take them down and have a look?

Navia:

Perhaps we should just leave them be for now.

Paimon:

Hmm, there are four locations in total, but only three stone slates. The slate that should be in the first empty spot is missing.

Neuvillette:

The surrounding walls also show signs of damage.

Paimon:

There's something written below, let Paimon see... "Reason dictates that this nation be destroyed. I shall record the history of its future here in its past..." Uh, say what?

Navia:

It feels like someone left these slates and these words here for a purpose. But does he mean that Fontaine should be destroyed?

Neuvillette:

That would fit the circumstances dictated by the prophecy, yes. Indeed, the slates' contents correspond to it. Take the second slate, for example.

Paimon:

There's a person kneeling here. She seems so... dedicated, and there's a whole bunch of other people behind her doing the same. She's facing this... What is this? Some kinda island in the sky?

Navia:

And is that... Lady Furina in the third image? Did the Hydro Archon fall into the water?

Paimon:

And is that a ring of people around her? Paimon doesn't quite get it... are they all in the water?

Navia:

The fourth image... I know this one. This exactly matches the content of the prophecy...

Neuvillette:

The people will all be dissolved into the waters, and only the Hydro Archon will remain, weeping on her throne.

Traveler:

Yes, they do seem to match...

Neuvillette touches the stone slates...

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

More information should be hidden in these slates, but I fear I cannot easily uncover it — most likely due to us missing the first slate. I am very sorry.

Navia:

Don't blame yourself, Monsieur Neuvillette. Deciphering ancient stone slates isn't one of your duties.

Paimon:

Uh... Paimon's getting the chills just looking at these slates...

Paimon:

This says that it's "the history of the future," right? That means the prophecy's sure to come true...

Navia:

...I really hope it doesn't mean that.

Paimon:

Still, Paimon feels like these images are kinda weird when you look at them together...

Navia:

Hmm...

Neuvillette:

...

Navia:

That's right! If the images are in chronological order, shouldn't the fourth — the waters drowning Fontaine — come before the third, where the Hydro Archon herself falls into the water?

Neuvillette:

And yet the order is reversed here.

Navia:

If we go by timing, Lady Furina only emerges in the third image... That means that the person in the second image might be the previous Hydro Archon.

Neuvillette:

Egeria, then... I had never met her, but her appearance here does match the records.

Neuvillette:

The previous Archon kneeling before the floating island in the skies, as if confessing a sin...

Navia:

Did she herself commit that sin? And if not, why would she be in such a posture...?

Navia:

Also, I'm still wondering why these ancient stone slates are here at all. Judging from their contents... Could this place be the origin of the prophecy? Does that mean that someone, or some people, once saw these slates?

Paimon:

But who would have created these slates and left these words here?

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

It seems that any further clues will have to come from Furina.

Navia:

In that case, there's no time to lose. There's nothing else to be gained here, so let's head back first.

Paimon:

Yeah. We'd better just get somewhere safe for now...

Traveler:

...

Traveler:

(Honestly, who created the slates doesn't matter now. The real question is whether things will truly play out as the prophecy foretells or not.)

Leave the ruin

Navia:

Let's split up here. I'm going to check on what's happening with the Spina — you know how it is. There's some things you just need to be there for yourself.

Paimon:

You still have the energy for that, Navia? Paimon's already beat...

Navia:

Just head back to the Fleuve Cendre and have a rest, then. Thanks for keeping me company all this time.

Neuvillette:

I'll depart as well. Thanks for your hard work today. Rest well, everyone.

Neuvillette:

Traveler, I will go talk to Furina tomorrow morning to ask about the stone slates.

Neuvillette:

I'm sure that you're concerned about this matter as well. If you have time, drop by my office. I will share the results of our discussion with you.

Traveler:

Alright. See you tomorrow.

Paimon:

Are you really gonna talk to her about this directly? Will that be a problem...? Ugh, Paimon's getting a little scared now that it's come to this.

Neuvillette:

She has long been harboring secrets, and will not give them up easily — which makes it all the more my duty to ensure that she understands the present situation.

Paimon:

Alright, we'll leave it in your hands, then — you're probably the best person to talk to her, anyway.

Neuvillette:

I will be carefully considering my words tonight.

Navia:

Traveler, Paimon, our safe house at the Fleuve Cendre is always open to you, as ever. So please don't think you're an imposition.

Navia:

Alright. I'll be on my way, then!

Hunters, Prophets

You return to the Spina di Rosula base in Fleuve Cendre, and there, you meet an unexpected friend...

Go to the Spina di Rosula base

Navia and Neuvillette both depart. You and Paimon head to the Spina di Rosula base at Fleuve Cendre...

Paimon:

Ah, we're finally back!

Tetreaux:

Welcome back. We've got a special menu prepared for you two tonight.

Paimon:

Yay, and there's good food, too! Navia — no, the Boss — is the best!

Traveler:

You did great as well, Paimon.

Paimon:

Hehe, ooh, desserts! Nice! These are all Paimon's.

Paimon:

Phew! Paimon's already starting to forget what happened today...

???:

Oh? That voice... Is that who I think it is?

Paimon:

Huh?

Mona:

It's you two! What are you doing in Fontaine?

Paimon:

Mona!?

Traveler:

Lady Megistus!

Traveler:

Did the stars not tell you that we might meet here?

Mona:

Seriously? Nobody just uses a scryglass whenever they've got time to just see who they'll meet on the road.

Paimon:

Still, we didn't expect to see you here... Wait, you're not a Fontainian, are you, Mona?

Mona:

Well, I have some business to attend to here, so I booked a hotel in the city. I was just out for a stroll... when I bumped into you. Quite unexpectedly, if I might add.

Mona:

Why did you think I was from Fontaine, though? Is that because "Megistus" doesn't sound much like a Mondstadter surname?

Paimon:

Yeah, let's go with that!

Mona:

Well, I used to have my own surname, which was, well, some other thing... Either way, the old hag told me when she took me as her disciple that the first step to being a Great Astrologist's pupil was to change that name.

Mona:

There was nothing for it, really. She really is amazing at astrology, so I changed my name to what it is now according to her wishes. To my surprise, however, "Megistus" is not the name of some ancient house or clan.

Paimon:

Huh? It isn't?

Mona:

Nope. Although it is used by us in place of surnames, it generally just means "great."

Paimon:

Wow, imagine including a boast in your name... Wait, are you gonna have to put that into your genealogy as well?

Mona:

I reckon so. In any case, I'd give my disciple a name like this as well, if I were to take one.

Traveler:

And may I ask what your master's name is?

Mona:

Astromancer Barbeloth Trismegistus.

Paimon:

Whoa, that's a long one... Does it also mean "great" or something?

Mona:

My name means "Mona, the Great Astrologist." As for the old hag, hers is, in plain speech, "the thrice-as-great scholar of the stars." Just take it as a title specific to astrologists.

Paimon:

Thrice-as-great!? That's so... petty!

Mona:

I know, right? That's just how she is! She used to call herself Megistus, actually, but once she took me in, she changed her name to Trismegistus...

Paimon:

Talk about excessive...

Mona:

Megistus is thus the calling card of our school, so to speak, which makes it about the same as a surname. It's alright if you don't get it — you can look into it further should you need to study astrology more deeply.

Paimon:

That sounds terrible!

Paimon:

But anyway, you're not Fontainian, are you, Mona? You're from Mondstadt, right?

Mona:

Well, I was born in Mondstadt, yes. My parents migrated to Dornman Port, and I traveled with the old hag for a while, after which I settled down in Mondstadt City.

Paimon:

Oh, that's a good thing then! At least we know you won't be dissolved by Fontaine's waters.

Mona:

Hmm, speaking of that, I'm sure you're aware that a bunch of things have happened here in Fontaine, right? I know you're not a local, but I'd avoid getting too close to any water that looks strange all the same.

Mona:

There's something ominous about it... The water, I mean.

Traveler:

Did you come to Fontaine because of the prophecy, Mona?

Mona:

That was the main reason, yes. Just a while back, The Steambird invited me to take part in a panel and speak about the circulation of the prophecy as an astrologist.

Mona:

The invitation was sent quite early on. I don't think anyone expected Fontaine to be in this much trouble.

Paimon:

What do you make of that prophecy, Mona? Just tell us what you think as an astrologist... Your word would go a long way to make things more certain and less... scary!

Mona:

What I can tell you is that I'm an astrologist, and that this prophecy concerns the fate of Fontaine, even that of all Teyvat. Ascertaining this is akin to reading the fortune of the whole world.

Mona:

I'm afraid that this is not something that just anyone can do. If I could do it, you would no longer call me an astrologist... but a visionary.

Mona:

But on the flip side, the prophecy is so huge and powerful that it must surely come from a powerful visionary. Its contents involve the fate of the world... Disregarding it would be a mistake.

Paimon:

A visionary... Sounds really powerful and all, but does such a person really exist?

Mona:

Of course. The old hag could do it, and I'd bet there are others amongst those Hexenzirkel colleagues of hers who could do something similar.

Mona:

Huh? A—Are you sure?

Mona:

Hmm... Alright, I'll help you. It isn't often that I see you with such a serious look on your face. I'll tell you once I hear back from her.

Paimon:

Thanks, Mona! You're amazing as always.

Mona:

Hehe. Well, this is something only I can do, after all. So yes, your praises are quite welcome!

Paimon:

That's the greatest of astrologists for you! Of all the people we know, you know the stars the best.

Mona:

Indeed, indeed! That's the spirit.

Tetreaux:

Oh, sorry. I came to see what all the commotion was about... If there is anything you need, do not hesitate to inform the Spina di Rosula.

Mona:

Uh... Whoops, guess we were getting a little too carried away there. Well, I'll go tend to my own business now. If I receive any news, I'll be sure to come find you two again!

Paimon:

And there she goes, quick as rushing water... And here we are with this Spina guy giving us suspicious looks.

Paimon:

Right, but we were able to recruit Mona's help, didn't we? Our Fontainian friends will thank us someday.

After the conversation, you decide to get a good night's sleep to replenish your energy...

Paimon:

*yawn* Good morning... To be honest, Paimon's still feeling kinda sleepy.

Paimon:

But it's time to get up, Traveler! We agreed to go see Neuvillette, so let's pack it up and get going.

Go to Neuvillette's office

Sedene:

Y—You're here! Finally!

Paimon:

Uh, is something wrong?

Sedene:

Monsieur Neuvillette and Lady Furina... they seem to have gotten into a dispute! Please, go see for yourself.

You go to the office entrance. The tension between the two within is palpable...

Furina:

Like I said, I've already explained everything!

Neuvillette:

And yet, the problem has not been properly solved. There is little space for excuses between us.

Neuvillette:

It is not my intention to offend you, but please, tell me where you stand. You are the Hydro Archon Focalors, are you not?

Neuvillette:

Look at this. This is a list of the victims from the recent Poisson incident.

Furina:

...

Furina:

Y—You mean... They're all...

Neuvillette:

We did not arrive in time to avert this disaster, and I will not have it happen again.

Furina:

...

Neuvillette:

I will say this once more. You must tell me everything you know.

Neuvillette:

Yesterday, I found three stone slates in some ancient ruins near Poisson. Do you know anything about those?

Furina:

...Seriously? You're questioning me like this is a court case now. I don't know anything about that.

Furina:

But... you found them in some ancient ruins, you say?

Neuvillette:

That's correct, which is why I came to ask you some questions. There should have been four slates, but one of them was missing. The other three feature different images that seem to correlate to the prophecy.

Furina:

The prophecy...

Neuvillette:

The second of these slates depicts the previous Hydro Archon Egeria kneeling before a floating island in the sky, as if confessing something. Do you know nothing of this, either?

Furina:

I don't. I've never seen such slates.

Neuvillette:

I'll ask you again... Do you really have no information regarding the previous Archon?

Neuvillette:

My deciphering of the slates indicates that the Hydro Archon Egeria once had to confess to, or apologize for, a certain sin. If anyone would know about it, it should be you.

Furina:

All gods don't have the same secrets, you know. She was herself, and I'm me. Is it really so strange that I know nothing?

Furina:

I understand your concerns, but... I'm sorry. I just don't have anything to tell you.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

Forgive me for saying this now, Lady Furina, but I have long known of your various secret investigations into certain matters.

Neuvillette:

There are several indications that you have been investigating the prophecy on the sly.

Neuvillette:

This is not strange in itself, considering that you are the Hydro Archon. But it is strange that you also should claim not to know any of Egeria's secrets, as well as do nothing following your inquiries.

Neuvillette:

You have never been as superficial as you have presented yourself to be, nor are you a fool. And yet, your behavior is very inconsistent...

Furina:

Haha... Hahahaha! So you've been watching me all this time, have you? I didn't think you were that type!

Neuvillette:

You...

Furina:

Well, since you know about my secret investigations, then you should know I'm actually working to take care of it.

Furina:

There's no point questioning or suspecting me. You're the Iudex, but you're still my subordinate — you should be following my lead.

Furina:

Just trust in me, your Archon, and do as I say — never mind whether you can truly convince yourself to or not. It'll all turn out fine.

Furina:

...That's all I have to say. We do not discuss this matter again.

Furina:

Ah, the opera's about to start. Toodles!

Furina finishes speaking and runs out of the office in a hurry.

Neuvillette:

...

Paimon:

Did Furina not notice us standing by the door? Wonder what's up with her. She was smiling... Huh, she didn't seem in the mood to care if we were listening in or not...

Neuvillette:

I assume you've been outside for a while now?

Paimon:

Oh, you noticed? Seems Furina didn't even realize we were here.

Neuvillette:

She was in a great panic, though I cannot discern the reason. Our discussion reached impasses time and again — a state of affairs that we cannot allow to continue.

Neuvillette:

Still, I do not understand. Dialogue is the basis for understanding, so why did she keep refusing to engage?

Traveler:

I'm afraid questions alone might not suffice...

Traveler:

We need to make her understand how dire the situation actually is.

Neuvillette:

Everyone in her inner circle has noticed that she is hiding some secret. The issue is her attitude. I fear that she will not reveal anything unless absolutely forced to.

Neuvillette:

We may have to create a situation in which she will have no choice but to speak.

Paimon:

Oh? Like what?

Neuvillette:

Normally, people will only reveal the truth when standing trial. Perhaps we must have the Hydro Archon experience just such a scenario.

Paimon:

But Furina's seen so many trials, and she's really good at dodging questions. How do we make sure that she won't just slip away at the first chance she gets?

Neuvillette:

We will need to consider this thoroughly, join forces with various parties, and then do what we can.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

If at all possible, I would prefer to recuse myself from this affair, but... We must prevent the prophecy from coming to pass.

Neuvillette:

This may be cruel to her, but all Fontaine is in crisis — the "information a god possesses" is too precious, and so we must take a chance on this.

Traveler:

In that case, we will need help.

Neuvillette:

But who will lend us their aid to do such a thing?

Traveler:

Oh, I think I know who to call.

Go to Poisson

A few days later, on a boat somewhere in quiet Poisson...

Paimon:

Well, that's everyone, huh?

Paimon:

Speaking of which, it was pretty smart of you to think of hiding here.

Lynette:

Poisson was just involved in a disaster, so it's presently devoid of people. That naturally makes it the best choice.

Paimon:

And here you are, drinking tea like it's the most natural thing in the world, huh?

Lynette:

That's what family should do — sit and enjoy a leisurely time together.

Lyney:

Haha. It's nice to enjoy tea here, you know. Care for a cup?

Navia:

Ahem! Lend me your ears, everyone... Hmm. Or perhaps one of you might like to start us off? How about you, friend?

Freminet:

Uh, me!? N—No, I don't think I can...

Navia:

Then, how about you, good sir?

Neuvillette:

I fear that I will cause the mood on this boat to become as somber as it is in court...

Navia:

Well then, I guess we're lucky we've got a local like me to organize things. Wonderful — the spotlight, at last! I guess I'll be facilitating things from here.

Clorinde:

That was a little long-winded, don't you think?

Navia:

Oh, you might be right... Anyway, to cut to the chase, our friend here, Traveler, has brought us together to discuss something.

Navia:

As for what that is... Well, let's start by saying that we'll be pooling our efforts together to create a series of "traps."

Lyney:

Oh? How intriguing.

Navia:

Well, it's just an expression, really — one that I just learned from Clorinde, and used on the spot... so let's invite her to explain in detail. A round of applause, please!

Clorinde:

Huh? Didn't you say that you would be facilitating this?

Navia:

Oh, come now, your work doesn't involve much public speaking, right? This is a good chance to practice — you might even pick up some fancy oratory tricks to impress your boss with in the future.

Clorinde:

I see. And what does my boss say?

Neuvillette:

Ahem... He is glad that you consider him your boss. Do go on.

Clorinde:

In that case, do any of you have experience in... hunting?

Lynette:

Not that I recall.

Lyney:

Freminet and I once used a wooden stick and a basket to catch wild rabbits when we were younger. As for Lynette... Ah right, you were sick that day, weren't you?

Freminet:

I've also gone diving to catch some fish before. Does that count?

Clorinde:

I'm afraid not. You may or may not have heard, but Fontaine once played host to a group known as the Marechaussee Hunters.

Clorinde:

Though that was their name, they did not hunt animals, but rather various monsters left behind by the ancient dynasty of King Remus.

Clorinde:

Today, Fontaine's monster population has already thinned greatly, so the Hunters have blended back into society, taking up arms in other lines of work. They even left a unique methodology of hunting in their wake.

Clorinde:

A trap comprises of the following components: bait, a trigger, and a containment device. Sometimes, a lethal implement will also be necessary to deal with the prey.

Clorinde:

So if we were to build a trap together right now, what would you choose to build it with?

Lyney:

For me, I would prefer something basket-shaped. Pigeons and rabbits will see the bait and naturally enter the snare.

Lyney:

Our line of work requires a deft hand, and we're some of the best in the industry, so you can count on our techniques.

Navia:

You used some of those techniques while moving the people of Poisson, didn't you? My subordinates mentioned that you even performed some magic for the bawling children.

Lyney:

Yes, and I even managed to gather some intelligence in the meantime — I'm quite the multitasker if I do say so myself.

Freminet:

I'm afraid I can't claim that as my strong suit... I prefer more stable methods, like placing bait in the water and waiting for the fish to come within reach... That's the kind of method I would count on.

Paimon:

Hehe, calm and steady — exactly the kind of person who would catch loads of fish.

Lynette:

And I can be their assistant.

Clorinde:

With discretion, I'm sure.

Navia:

Hmm... I'd probably use some sort of mechanical animal. Papa once bought me some small clockwork squirrels, mice, and such. When placed in the forest, they can attract others of their kind.

Navia:

I remember that you liked those too, didn't you?

Clorinde:

I did, and that would be a good way to go about it. If they're realistic enough, animals of the same kind will follow them all the way to the trap.

Navia:

What about you, Monsieur Neuvillette?

Neuvillette:

I... fear I do not have any related experience.

Clorinde:

That makes sense. You usually solve problems directly, without the use of any such tricks.

Clorinde:

But I do have one more question for you, Monsieur.

Clorinde:

If we were to create a trap now, how would you design it?

Neuvillette:

Hmm, I would like for it to be effective but bring no harm to the prey. A more gentle trap would be ideal.

Clorinde:

Kind, as always. However, our intention doesn't necessarily change the containment device and the type of implement we need.

Clorinde:

If we wanted to kill the prey in one strike, we would need a powerful implement. However, that also goes for prey that must be captured and safely contained.

Navia:

Wait, why's that?

Clorinde:

Only a hunter who is a true expert at subduing their prey can snare it without harming it. The line that divides life and death is often exceedingly thin.

Freminet:

...So, are we going hunting together?

Paimon:

Uh, we hadn't thought of seeing ourselves as hunters. It kinda works... but maybe it's still not the best metaphor.

Neuvillette:

If our means of capturing and dealing with our prey is to put them on trial, then the hunting metaphor is actually quite accurate.

Neuvillette:

But we shall require much more courage than any hunter to judge a god — a being whose seat is an exalted throne.

Traveler:

That's right.

Lyney:

Oh, so that's what is going on... sounds very interesting.

Clorinde's hunting metaphor was just that... a metaphor. You will not call this a "hunt" because that is not what you should do at present, nor has the relationship between you and Furina reached such a dire stage.

What you need is simply the secrets she is keeping. Attempting to take her secrets is an act of sacrilegious disrespect, but must be done to prevent Fontaine from sinking into the waters as foretold in the prophecy.

There is neither hunter nor prey, but there must be a "trap." That is what you will need.

Go to the Spina di Rosula base

Paimon:

Phew, it's been a tough few days, hasn't it? So much has been happening!

Traveler:

Those meetings sure did make me hungry...

Paimon:

*sigh* Paimon didn't think the meetings would go on for so long, but everyone seemed pretty fired up, huh?

Paimon:

Paimon thought they'd be at least a little frightened... Well, Freminet was, now that Paimon thinks about it. But everyone else just looked a little surprised.

Traveler:

Do you feel more confident after the meetings, Paimon?

Paimon:

Uh... Well...

Paimon:

It's hard to say — Paimon doesn't have any experience with this sort of thing. But with you around, Paimon's sure we'll do great!

Paimon:

After all, you're the most reliable person in the world, aren't you? Hehe... Huh?

Traveler:

Uh, is something wrong?

Paimon:

Uh, did you just pour some tea? Paimon didn't notice you doing that at all!

Traveler:

No, I didn't.

Paimon:

Th—Then what's that?

Paimon:

...Paimon's never seen that cup before!

???:

Don't be frightened. I'm just joining you two for tea. I merely refrained from saying anything till now.

Paimon:

Ah! Who's that voice!? But there's no one here!

???:

What a strange conclusion, but also such an interesting one... You two make such a fascinating combo.

???:

And yet, even you feel confused. As such, I couldn't resist but come by for some tea and a chat.

Traveler:

Who are you? And what do you want with us?

???:

Consider me a passerby, just accepting a commission from my friend's disciple on a whim.

Mage "N":

The prophecy... Yes, what has been prophesized will be fulfilled. You may view such things as "the history of the future."

Paimon:

What... Th—Then, is there any way we can stop it?

Mage "N":

People call such things "fate," and it is written in the stars — it cannot so easily be altered.

Mage "N":

Ah, so you've caught on.

Mage "N":

Just as prophecies are usually only the future as seen from the perspectives of the gods, could things be happening in hidden corners where the gods' gaze does not fall?

Mage "N":

Are the things that you shall see different from the fate that the gods perceive?

Traveler:

...

Paimon:

Wh—What is she talking about? It all sounds really impressive and important and stuff... but it also sounds kinda scary.

Traveler:

(The tea in the teacup is just about gone as well...)

Mage "N":

I believe that you understand, right? Some things are insignificant... but others, you must reach out to change.

Mage "N":

Ultimately, fate shall serve as your only guide no matter what will happen in Teyvat's future. All you need to do is to play your part.

Mage "N":

This was good tea, by the way. Thank you for your hospitality. Well, that'll be all for today.

Paimon:

The voice... it's gone.

Traveler:

(Mage N... is this the clue you're leaving for us?)

???:

Ah, have you forgotten me already?

Paimon:

Wait... You *are* familiar... You're the voice we heard from the sky in Sumeru!

???:

"The voice from the sky," hmm? I fear that description is wrong — though not completely wrong.

???:

You're feeling lost now, just as you were feeling previously. I sensed that confusion, and thus came to you. Guiding people is an irresistible hobby of mine, after all.

Traveler:

Who are you? And what do you want with us?

???:

Consider me a passerby, just accepting a commission from my friend's disciple on a whim.

Mage "N":

The prophecy... Yes, what has been prophesized will be fulfilled. You may view such things as "the history of the future."

Paimon:

What... Th—Then, is there any way we can stop it?

Mage "N":

I believe you have witnessed a failed attempt with your own eyes. Can everything in Teyvat so easily be changed?

???:

What a strange conclusion, but also such an interesting one... You two make such a fascinating combo.

???:

And yet, even you feel confused. As such, I couldn't resist but come by for some tea and a chat.

Traveler:

Who are you? And what do you want with us?

???:

Consider me a passerby, just accepting a commission from my friend's disciple on a whim.

Traveler:

(Friend's disciple... So, this is one of the friends of Mona's master?)

Mage "N":

Precisely. Call me N, a mage who wanders the world. At least, that's how my friends have suggested that I introduce myself.

Mage "N":

The prophecy... Yes, what has been prophesized will be fulfilled. You may view such things as "the history of the future."

Paimon:

What... Th—Then, is there any way we can stop it?

Mage "N":

People call such things "fate," and it is written in the stars — it cannot so easily be altered.

???:

Ah, have you forgotten me already?

Paimon:

Wait... You *are* familiar... You're the voice we heard from the sky in Sumeru!

???:

"The voice from the sky," hmm? I fear that description is wrong — though not completely wrong.

???:

You're feeling lost now, just as you were feeling previously. I sensed that confusion, and thus came to you. Guiding people is an irresistible hobby of mine, after all.

Traveler:

Who are you? And what do you want with us?

???:

Consider me a passerby, just accepting a commission from my friend's disciple on a whim.

Traveler:

(Friend's disciple... So, this is one of the friends of Mona's master? The enigmatic N of the Hexenzirkel?)

Mage "N":

The prophecy... Yes, what has been prophesized will be fulfilled. You may view such things as "the history of the future."

Paimon:

What... Th—Then, is there any way we can stop it?

Mage "N":

I believe you have witnessed a failed attempt with your own eyes. Can everything in Teyvat so easily be changed?

Get out of bed and open the door

The unexpected news leads to complicated feelings. You lie in bed for a long time before finally falling asleep.

When you wake up, someone seems to be outside...

Paimon:

Huh? Paimon hears someone talking...

Paimon:

*yawn*~ Alright, alright, coming...

Traveler:

You're getting more diligent, Paimon.

Paimon:

Hey! It's you who's getting lazy, okay?

Mona:

Well, I see I've walked in on some lively banter.

Paimon:

Mona!

Traveler:

How've you been these past few days?

Mona:

Fine, just fine. I went to take part in that Steambird panel. It turned out to be more interesting than I expected.

Mona:

Not all Fontainians are pessimistic about this. One journalist mentioned that sitting around and waiting for the end to come would be wrong, and that they should make their own rescue preparations. I agreed, so we had a brief chat with her.

Paimon:

Uh, did she have pink hair, by any chance?

Mona:

Why, yes — it was Charlotte! I assume you've heard of her, no? That daredevil journalist?

Mona:

I'm in full support of her view — prophecies are very important, but how can people allow their lives to be commandeered by just a few words?

Paimon:

That's right! Paimon's glad to hear something sensible for once.

Mona:

Ah, yes. About what we had discussed before... I did try, but I'm afraid I couldn't reach the old hag. I'll try again tonight, but I wouldn't get your hopes up...

Traveler:

Actually, someone already came over...

Mona:

Huh?

You tell Mona about your mysterious guest...

Mona:

Goodness gracious... Are you serious?

Traveler:

I believe she came to pass a message to us.

Paimon:

She said that even the gods' gaze has blindspots — pretty bold if you ask Paimon. Most people would believe the gods to be all-knowing, right?

Mona:

The Hexenzirkel members are certainly anything but ordinary. As for the mage named N... The old hag has mentioned her a few times. She said that N's sense of direction is incredible, and that she loves guiding those who are lost.

Mona:

But I've never met her, and if she were still alive, she'd be... Well, suffice it to say that the hag's at least a few hundred now, and N's been around for longer than that!

Paimon:

Whoa... The Hexenzirkel sounds like a scary group... But they must really stay in shape to live so long!

Mona:

Their abilities alone are pretty terrifying. If she came to see you personally, then the problem you're facing must truly be of great importance.

Paimon:

Well, it's not like Paimon could understand anything she said.

Mona:

Yes, she was quite cryptic, but I suspect she means that there is still a way to turn things around. She didn't say when or what that would be, though, so...

Mona:

Perhaps it is something that you cannot know right now...

Traveler:

(True. Her words were meant as a helpful hint, but when will we realize their value and meaning...?)

Traveler:

(Was that the best answer that my question could have gotten?)

Mona:

Traveler, Paimon, are you two alright?

Paimon:

Oh, we're fine, we're just a little down right now... It kinda feels like the end is coming, you know?

Mona:

I see. I feel that same sense of desperation, too.

Mona:

I guess you could consider me someone who has often witnessed "fate." So far as I have seen, it cannot be swayed.

Mona:

But even so, I still hope for — and believe in — miracles. Astrology is eternal and rational, but fate may not be. It is cruel... but it can also be beautiful.

Mona:

Perhaps that's what N was trying to tell you. Not to lose heart, and to believe that what you were seeing playing out before you is not yet set in stone.

Mona:

I did originally think of steering clear of all this, but I couldn't. Even if this is all futile, I still wish to help everyone. If we don't struggle to the last, then how can we face the end when it comes?

Paimon:

Huh. You do have a point...

Mona:

*sigh* Haha, there I go talking about astrological principles again. Sorry about that, the moment I start talking about work-related stuff... Oh, I need to get going!

Traveler:

Don't worry about it, Mona — and thank you.

Mona:

It was worth trying to comfort you, even if only a little. I believe that you'll help those who're struggling in the same way I did.

Mona:

I suppose that might be why we always seem to meet by coincidence.

Paimon:

Paimon feels kinda moved by what Mona said... but also kinda sad, too.

Paimon:

Hey, Traveler... Paimon suddenly feels like going outside for a walk. Let's go.

Mona:

Why, yes — it was Charlotte! You remember her, right? That daredevil journalist?

Mona:

I'm in full support of her view — prophecies are very important, but how can people allow their lives to be commandeered by just a few words?

Go to the newsstand

Paimon:

Huh? Our names are written in this newspaper. Uh, what's going on?

Traveler:

Maybe we're famous?

Paimon:

Let Paimon see...

Paimon:

"The underwater stronghold, the Fortress of Meropide, has continued in its noble autonomy, but that does not mean that others cannot interact with it."

Paimon:

"My recent attempts to enter the Fortress bore little fruit..." Huh? Guess Charlotte still hasn't given up on that...

Paimon:

"Thus did an outlander friend become the focus of this report — a blond adventurer with their white fairy, legends trailing in their wake. It is said that this mysterious traveler once visited the underwater Fortress."

Paimon:

"So while the Fortress's interior remains a mystery behind closed doors, do not fear, for the tales of the Traveler contain surprises in spades!"

Paimon:

"Journalist Charlotte's biggest scoop yet — 'The Traveler's Trail: World-Walker.'"

Paimon:

Huh? Charlotte took so many awesome photos of us, and we never even noticed her!

Paimon:

She hasn't been able to get ahold of anything at the Fortress, so since we're easier to find, she's using us as the subject matter instead?

Traveler:

That sure seems to be the case...

Paimon:

Ugh, seriously... Well, fine. Those headlines and photos do look cool, so Paimon will forgive her this time!

Continue moving forward

Paimon:

We're here! Phew, Paimon's hungry. Should we go in and get something to eat?

Go to Hotel Debord

Paimon:

Hey, quick! Look... That's...

Paimon:

That's the limited-edition, only 16-slices-a-day cake!

Traveler:

It hasn't already sold out for the day?

Paimon:

It was so delicious the last time we tried it, despite the tense situation we were in. Let's give it another go — Paimon's sure it'll be great!

Traveler:

We can't let anyone get ahead of us!

???:

One slice of cake, please.

Paimon:

Ah! Someone showed up after all!

Paimon:

Oh? Wait, you're the one from the Palais Mermonia...

Sedene:

Oh, are you here to buy cake too? Haha, it seems Monsieur Neuvillette was right — you really can eat.

Paimon:

Wait, did he really say something like that?

Sedene:

That's right. Even he has his own preferences when it comes to food. As for me, I love the cake and coffee here.

Paimon:

Do you come here often?

Sedene:

Mhm, usually every day.

Paimon:

Every day...

Sedene:

It's part of my daily schedule apart from work — I shall have my cake and coffee.

Paimon:

...

Paimon:

Then what if someone told you one day that this place would be closing soon, and you wouldn't get to eat cake here anymore? What would you think?

Sedene:

But why would it close?

Paimon:

Well, Paimon doesn't know either, but maybe... Maybe the waters will rise tomorrow... You know, like in the prophecy.

Sedene:

Oh, the prophecy... To be honest, I haven't paid much attention to that. No. Still, even if there'd be no more cake tomorrow, that wouldn't keep me from having some today.

Sedene:

No no. It's the same for eating in general. You might not be able to eat tomorrow, but if you can do so today, then you should carry on. That's what people call "living," you know?

Paimon:

...Huh.

Sedene:

Don't be sad. Excuse me, could I have two more slices of cake to go?

Sedene:

These two slices are for you. Sigewinne said that this kind of expression you're making is what humans call "being sad."

Paimon:

Oh, you know Sigewinne?

Sedene:

I sure do. She was born before me, and she sometimes comes to the surface to teach us things about humans.

Sedene:

She said that humans are creatures that are saddened easily, yes, and you can only lift their spirits by feeding them delicious food — so, please try the cakes here.

Sedene:

I've got something else to do, so I'll be going now. You two try to stay in a good mood after eating, alright? Bye.

Paimon:

And there she goes...

Paimon:

Alright, let's dig in. Paimon's sure this cake will be delicious.

You share a glance with Paimon and snarf down the cake.

Paimon:

It's more delicious than last time — and the flavor gets even better with a sip of tea! It sure would be nice if we could come again tomorrow...

Paimon:

...Sure would be nice if we could always eat delicious food here.

Go to The Steambird

Charlotte:

Wow, if it isn't Traveler and Paimon! Have you seen the article I wrote about you?

Paimon:

You've got some nerve! You just used us to make some quick Mora!

Traveler:

Can we negotiate a profit split?

Charlotte:

Oh, you needn't worry about that! I heard that you were in Poisson some time back, so I sent you a letter to discuss just that — it appears you didn't receive it, though.

Charlotte:

It's alright, though. I've set aside the amount intended for you. I've even set the table with some food!

Paimon:

Really? Ooh, you're the best!

Charlotte:

Heh, you're almost a little too easy to win over, Paimon. If I were a journalist with ulterior motives, you'd be in trouble now, you know!

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon knows you're not like that!

Charlotte:

Still, what brings you here all of a sudden? Were you looking for me?

Paimon:

A friend of ours met you a while back, and when she mentioned it, we thought of coming to see you. Her name's Mona!

Charlotte:

Ah, so you know Miss Mona as well? She's a guest columnist for our paper — a really good one, too! She's so young, and already such a brilliant astrologist!

Charlotte:

So she mentioned me? What did she say?

Paimon:

She said that you're a real "daredevil" of a journalist!

Charlotte:

Hahaha, nice — in which case, can this daredevil journalist dare to request an exclusive interview with the legendary Traveler and Paimon?

Paimon:

Huh? So your article in the paper today doesn't count?

Charlotte:

Oh, of course it doesn't — that was more like live photography. What I'd like to do is dive deeper and ask you to talk about the things you've seen and experienced.

Traveler:

You seriously want to interview me?

Paimon:

Yeah! Are we even... qualified enough?

Charlotte:

Why not? If I say you're worth an interview, then you're worth it! But not right now, of course. I'll need a few days to prepare.

Paimon:

Oh, in that case, we'll just chat when you have time then?

Charlotte:

So that's a "yes"? Splendid! I'll tell the editor-in-chief immediately. I'll have to apply for lighting, a venue, some props, and...

Charlotte:

Whew, so much to get done now. Talk to you later!

Paimon:

Wait, Charlotte! Paimon's still got a question for you!

Charlotte:

Hmm? What's that...?

Paimon:

If, just for example, Fontaine were to be flooded tomorrow, what would you do today?

Charlotte:

Huh, that's the prophecy you're talking about, isn't it...? I mean, I do hear about it often, but I've never once thought that the day could be tomorrow.

Charlotte:

If you're seriously asking, then I might try and think of a way to leave Fontaine. But I'm still a journalist first and foremost. That means I have a duty to be reporting from the scene. And secondly... I wouldn't forsake my homeland that easily.

Charlotte:

From what I've seen, most people don't know what they'd do should the worst come to pass. In truth, it might be better just to behave like normal rather than worry over such an end.

Charlotte:

So in all likelihood, I'd probably still be prepping at the office for that interview of ours. I know what you're thinking... that sounds a bit sad, but I've always believed that it's best to do what you enjoy.

Charlotte:

Just think about it! If this nation really were to be suddenly destroyed tomorrow, but I still successfully finish an exclusive interview with a truly unique person, then the story I would wind up writing would truly be timeless.

Charlotte:

And then do you know what I'd do? Well, I'd write that story, send it for printing, and use messenger pigeons to get copies out to the various nations as soon as possible.

Charlotte:

I'm not a dreamer, nor am I a workaholic, but I do love my job, and I'd be proud of leaving such an article behind. I guess you could say that I was born to be a journalist...

Charlotte:

But anyway, that's my answer — and on that note, I'll get back to my preparations!

Paimon:

That's so nice. All of a sudden, Paimon actually kinda envies her.

Paimon:

Anyway, let's go and take a look at the sea, shall we?

Paimon:

When Mona mentioned you, we thought of coming to see you at work.

Charlotte:

Haha, I see. It seems you've already bumped into Mona here in Fontaine.

Talk a seaside walk

Paimon:

The sea breeze and scenery can be a pretty soothing combo, huh?

Paimon:

...

Paimon:

Paimon's been thinking...

Traveler:

Yes?

Paimon:

If it wasn't Fontaine, but all of Teyvat that would be destroyed tomorrow, where would we go, and what would we do?

Paimon:

No, Paimon should ask, if you could choose, what would you like to do?

Traveler:

(If I could choose, huh?)

Traveler:

(...Hmm, it's just like Charlotte said... Suddenly trying to consider what to do is pointless.)

Paimon:

We've always been moving to the next destination, so we haven't spent much time thinking about these kinds of things. We didn't have to either, with us always being on the road and whatnot...

Traveler:

Until that moment comes, I think I'll keep journeying on.

Paimon:

You mean still traveling?

Paimon:

Huh. Wait, isn't that what we've always been doing?

The banter goes back and forth between the two of you as time slips by. As night falls, you return to your accommodations and end this busy day.

The next few days are just as calm. Charlotte comes to find you and conducts the interview in the Spina di Rosula safehouse at the Fleuve Cendre.

Navia, having finished her business in Poisson, even drops by to take a photo with the two of you. All goes well.

Go to the Spina di Rosula base

Paimon:

*yawn* Feels like you'll grow mold if you stay here long enough...

Paimon:

But it's still better than the Fortress of Meropide, that's for sure. It's not only damp there, but salty, too...

Isadora:

Ah, so the two of you are still here. Wonderful.

Paimon:

Ooh, you're from the Palais Mermonia, aren't you?

Isadora:

Yes, I'm Isadora. Monsieur Neuvillette sent me to look for you two before... I heard that afterward, you went to the Fortress of Meropide.

Traveler:

Err... So are you under the impression that we might be wanted criminals?

Isadora:

Haha, not at all. I'm well aware that you're friends of his. Actually, I'm here to pass along a message from him...

Isadora:

Yes, inside the opera house. The Marechaussee Phantom has declared the incident a small-scale riot.

Paimon:

A riot?

Isadora:

Well, that said, I don't personally think it was that serious.

Isadora:

Lady Furina was watching a performance at the opera house, and while she was resting during an intermission, some other audience members suddenly started harassing her...

Isadora:

Loudly accusing her of doing nothing about the "prophecy crisis."

Isadora:

And before she could respond, others started to join in.

Isadora:

The crowd continued to grow and protests against the Hydro Archon started to break out.

Paimon:

So, people have started to put the blame on Furina... Guess they finally found an outlet for the pressure they've been under due to the prophecy.

Isadora:

I agree. People will naturally rely on gods as is customary, but the moment people feel threatened, gods are also the first to be blamed.

Paimon:

So what happened after that? Is Furina okay?

Isadora:

Seeing that the situation was spiraling out of control and that further argument was pointless, she claimed that she'd "gotten tired of this" and left in a hurry.

Isadora:

The Marechaussee Phantom had their hands full maintaining order and did not catch where Lady Furina had gone. Only when things had stabilized did we realize that she had gone missing.

Paimon:

So, you mean she's still missing?

Isadora:

That's right. The Marechaussee has dispatched many people to search for her, but we don't have any leads yet.

Isadora:

That said, I don't think there's much to worry about. She is a god, after all. Even if she were to fall into the hands of rioters, what could ordinary people do to her?

Traveler:

I understand the situation.

Isadora:

Good. Monsieur Neuvillette sent me to tell you about the situation, but he didn't say anything else...

Paimon:

Don't worry, this is more than enough to go on. Thanks for keeping us informed!

Isadora:

Ah, is that so? Well, alright then. In that case, you two take care. I'll be heading back to the Palais now.

Paimon:

Well, sounds like we should hurry over to Poisson, then.

Traveler:

You sure caught on quickly.

Paimon:

If we know Furina, she won't try to fix things in this situation. Instead, she'll look for a place to wait out the heat.

Paimon:

And as we also know, she may be loud and dramatic, but she doesn't have a heart of stone.

Paimon:

When Neuvillette was talking to her in the Palais Mermonia, and she heard about Poisson, she couldn't hide her sadness and remorse.

Paimon:

It would be hard for her to ignore being accused by the public today.

Paimon:

Paimon thinks Furina's probably taken the opportunity to slip away to Poisson and try to relieve the sense of guilt that she's feeling.

Paimon:

Heh... Well, whaddya think? Paimon knows the answer, of course, but Paimon can do the analysis to back it up too. Cool, huh?

Paimon:

In that case, there's not a moment to lose. Poisson, here we come!

Apocalypse

The prophecy shall inevitably come to fruition, and the plans are all in place. All that's left... is to judge a god.

Find Furina in Poisson

Furina:

...

Paimon:

Ah, that's Furina, right over there! She really is here all on her own...

Paimon:

...Mm-hmm.

Furina's back is to you as she stares at the disaster's aftermath without a word.

Furina:

Should I just give up? This is all... meaningless...

Furina:

What was meant to happen did happen after all. Everyone's dead...

Furina:

I'm sorry... I'm so sorry...

Furina:

Give up, Furina. There's no point in holding out...

Furina:

...

Furina:

I'm sorry...

Furina:

...But what can I even do, other than to repeat meaningless apologies over and over...

Traveler:

Furina...

Furina:

Ah...! Who!? Who's that?

Paimon:

Don't worry, Furina. It's just us...

Furina:

Ahem... Heh... Ahahaha... So it is you, Blond Traveler from another land! Why, I almost thought you were someone from that mob of my ignorant subjects, come to kneel and beg for my forgiveness.

Paimon:

Furina... You were crying just now, weren't you? The tear stains on your face are obvious...

Furina:

Uh... What do you mean, tear stains? Oh, I remember. The show at the opera house earlier this morning was so moving, I'm still trying to process it.

Furina:

Hmph. Who did that uncivilized rabble think they were, disturbing my enjoyment of the arts?

Furina:

They even dared to doubt their Archon... I must teach them a lesson. Hehe, I can just imagine their twisted and frustrated faces once they realize that I'm nowhere to be found...

Furina:

Oh! And I'm sure Neuvillette and those people from the Marechaussee Phantom are freaking out right next to them, too. Hehehe...

Furina:

I... Of course not...

Unknown Voice Shouting:

Hey, there she is! The Hydro Archon's over there!

Unknown Voice Shouting:

Quick! After her!

Paimon:

Huh? Furina, those people seem to be after you...

Furina:

Th—They are? Hah, they're just some rabid fans who want to cut the line because they haven't been able to meet me in person, aren't they?

Furina:

Tsk, tsk, that's against the rules! I can't let them get their way!

Paimon:

Ahh! Furina just ran off!

Paimon:

Quick, we have to catch up with her!

Paimon:

...This should be the place, right? Hey! Furina!

Paimon:

There's a good hiding spot over here. Quick, come to Paimon before the rest of them catch up to you!

Furina:

Ahh... Wh—What? What is this place...

Paimon:

Hurry! They're almost here!

Furina:

Fine, fine, I suppose haste is warranted. Lead the way!

Talk to Furina

Paimon:

*panting* Phew... Paimon's exhausted...

Furina:

*panting* Phew... I'm so tired... I totally thought they had caught me...

Furina:

Ah, no, I mean, I nearly gave in to the sheer enthusiasm they displayed... Hahaha...

Furina:

Ah... you're right.

Paimon:

Yep, that's a good girl.

The room suddenly starts to shake...

Paimon:

Huuuuuuuuuuuuh!?

Furina:

What's happening? The ground's shaking... Is it an earthquake?

Traveler:

Another disaster just struck, I suspect.

Paimon:

Yeah, a quake of this kind preceded the flooding in Poisson, didn't it?

Furina:

It can't be... It's happening again...?

Paimon:

Well, there's no need to worry too much about that! Neuvillette's made some emergency plans, so the evacuation should go a lot smoother this time.

Furina:

Yeah... I hope you're right.

Furina:

But the people of Poisson... They've already...

Traveler:

(Has Furina finally reached her limit? Now that she's talking about her actual feelings, she's starting to look far less stiff...)

You begin to talk amongst yourselves as Furina slowly calms down...

Furina:

...It's true. I've been investigating the prophecy for hundreds of years.

Furina:

I once had informants all over Teyvat, searching for clues and feeding information back to me.

Furina:

I've tried all kinds of ways, too, to hold back the sea. Anything to keep the coastline from advancing...

Furina:

But all my efforts proved to be futile in the end. Really, the truth has been clear to me for a very long time...

Furina:

We cannot make an enemy of the divine. No matter what we do, the will of the Heavenly Principles will have its way, and the prophecy shall be fulfilled...

Furina:

Give up? Ahh... I do love the sound of that phrase. It would mean finally coming to terms with fate, but also... for me to finally be free.

Traveler:

But that would also mean that all hope would disappear.

Furina:

Indeed... I've thought about giving up so many times. Especially after we almost lost Poisson...

Furina:

Fate is really unreasonable, isn't it? It has no heart, and obeys no rules. The prophecy has only just started to come true, and so many people have already lost their lives...

Furina:

But just now... It all became clear to me. I still don't have the right to come to terms with fate on behalf of everyone else...

Furina:

As long as the final moment hasn't come, it's still not too late...

Furina:

Don't worry. I... I will keep hope alive for everyone until the very end.

Furina:

...

Furina:

Well! That's enough for now. I got the impulse to play the stricken maiden, but honestly, considering my rank and station, that wasn't a good fit at all, hehehe...

Furina:

Don't take any of what I just said seriously! How could I possibly let Fontaine fall to the whims of trivial prophecy?

Paimon:

C'mon, Paimon could've sworn you were actually being honest just now...

Traveler:

(We're running out of time... We can't just go back to square one like this. I have to get more information out of her...)

Furina:

Share my burden...

Furina:

That's impossible. It was fated, right from the start, that this would be my duty alone.

Traveler:

Just share it with me. I'm what you'd call a "witness."

Furina:

A witness... Ah, yes. I've heard that you came to Teyvat from beyond the stars, yes? In other words, you never belonged here...

Furina:

And if Teyvat is, in its entirety, a show on a stage, then you're just a "spectator," aren't you?

Furina:

If that's the case...

Traveler:

(There's no time left... Please, Furina, just spit it out!)

Furina hesitates several times, unable to speak each time, before finally deciding to tell you... something. You wait with bated breath, only for the room's walls to collapse and Furina to find herself in the Opera Epiclese, on the stage.

Arrive at the opera house

Lyney:

Ladies and gentlemen... this concludes my opening performance.

Lyney:

Now, without further ado... we may proceed to the trial of our god.

Furina understands her situation and composes herself...

Furina:

Ah, so this is what it is. Yes... You deserve praise for the effort you took to raise the dramatic stakes.

Furina:

Do not forget, however, that I am Focalors, the God of Justice — the embodiment of justice itself. Does it not strike you as even the least bit absurd to bring the very concept of justice to trial?

Neuvillette:

May I interpret these words... as your refusal to stand trial?

Neuvillette:

In that case, you will have the opportunity to defend your honor through a duel.

Clorinde walks onstage silently, blade in hand. Furina seems suddenly nervous and shocked, but she steadies herself and tries to intimidate her opponent...

Furina:

You... You would draw your blade against a god?

Clorinde silently takes a stance as her answer.

Furina:

I see... It seems like you have made up your mind.

The tension is as thick as a wall, but Clorinde is unmovable. Furina raises a hand quietly, as if to use some power, silencing the audience... only for her to raise both hands instead.

Paimon:

Paimon can't believe it... She... She just surrendered!?

Clorinde:

...

Surprised Audience Member:

What the heck is going on? Did I just see an Archon surrender to a human?

Dissatisfied Audience Member:

Wow, how utterly humiliating...

Puzzled Audience Member:

Lady Furina, what is the meaning of this?

Furina:

Shh!

Furina:

It would seem that there has been a misunderstanding. To be clear, the raising of both hands is not always an indication of surrender...

Paimon:

Looking for excuses again, huh?

Furina:

...I raised my hands just now to indicate my acceptance of the trial. No duel shall be necessary.

Furina:

I will admit that I've been running away for a long time.

Furina:

I'm sorry, everyone. I was unable to protect the people of Poisson... It is my duty to stand trial for my crimes.

Furina:

You are not the only ones to be disappointed in me. I, too, am exceedingly disappointed in myself.

Furina:

Whew... But now, it is time for the Hydro Archon to show you her courage and resolve!

Furina:

I, Furina, will use this trial to show the world the true meaning of justice!

Furina:

(This time... I will protect you.)

Furina:

Applaud and rejoice! One of the most outrageous and fantastical arcs known to the Opera Epiclese is now unfolding before your eyes!

Furina:

Mark my words — this shall be one of the most exhilarating and brilliant shows ever to grace the stage of Fontaine! The trial of the Hydro Archon, Focalors, will now begin!

Excited Audience Member:

Woohoo!

Overexcited Audience Member:

Oh, now we're making history!

Neuvillette:

*sigh*...

Paimon:

Why does it feel like Furina just took over the whole thing... Like c'mon, didn't she just get forced to stand trial for her crimes?

Paimon:

Also, even though she's still acting super dramatic, she is taking this seriously this time, right?

Furina:

Alright, then... Who will be my opponent in this trial?

Neuvillette:

The court asks the prosecutor to please take the stand.

Traveler:

Thank you, Your Honor.

Furina:

Is that so... Very well. Then please speak, witness of Teyvat, my accuser and fated opponent.

Traveler:

(We were so close to getting her to tell us the truth... And it still turned out like this in the end.)

Traveler:

(It's okay, though. As long as we can defeat Furina in court, we'll still have a chance to figure everything out.)

Furina:

Also, please allow me to ask, as the final question before the trial begins...

Furina:

Just how much work did you do to force me onto this stage?

Paimon:

Well... We did do a lot of prep after the meeting that day...

Navia:

I can go over the tasks assigned to the Spina di Rosula, since they were rather straightforward and easy.

Furina:

Navia, the President of the Spina di Rosula...

Navia:

Most of the people who participated in the disturbance this morning were my subordinates.

Navia:

They changed into plain clothes, and came to the opera house as regular audience members, waiting for the perfect opportunity to incite insurrection against you.

Navia:

The people's resentment against their Archon has been building as more and more of the prophecy is fulfilled. A spark was all we needed to turn smoldering anger into a flame.

Navia:

Moreover, according to our understanding and analysis of you, when something like that occurred, you would likely flee the scene and head to Poisson by yourself.

Navia:

So, we arranged for a second group to lie in wait there...

Furina:

So, you mean... The ones who scoured the settlement for me were also from the Spina...

Lyney:

And their goal was to force you to step into the Giant Magic Box, so you may personally participate in the greatest magic performance in all of Fontainian history.

Lynette:

That's right. That house was a magic box, rather than someone's residence.

Lyney:

As the "Super Ultimate" version of the setup that I used when I first performed at the Opera Epiclese...

Lyney:

The volume of the box was increased by a whole order of magnitude, and the distance it traversed was the entire gap between Poisson and Erinnyes. Its cargo, of course...

Lyney:

...Was an Archon, instead of a human.

Lyney:

My thanks, Furina. Without your help, we could never have pulled off such an extraordinary performance.

Furina:

Uh... You're welcome?

Lyney:

Of course, this performance was only made possible with "Father"'s support. The House of the Hearth spent a massive amount of labor and Mora to pull this off...

Lyney:

We had to select a location, construct the Giant Magic Box, dig a tunnel, and open up a path through the water... It was a lot of work for all of us.

Furina:

So, in other words... the "earthquake" that we felt within the Giant Magic Box was just a normal tremor from the transportation of the whole house?

Paimon:

That's right. It wasn't a sign of another disaster to come.

Furina:

Hmph, then... I can guess Neuvillette and Clorinde's parts.

Furina:

You gathered a crowd, prepared a stage, and made sure that the Champion Duelist would be immediately ready for a fight...

Furina:

All so that as soon as I appeared on the stage, the trial may commence without a hitch. Am I right?

Neuvillette:

Yes, that is correct.

Furina:

Well, Clorinde, I must commend you for your courage. Only the most outstanding Champion Duelist in all of Fontaine would accept a duel with an Archon without flinching.

Clorinde:

Thank you.

Furina:

As for you, Traveler... I suppose your role was to keep me distracted with conversation once you found me in Poisson.

Furina:

You'd make sure that I didn't notice anything amiss, before revealing yourself as my prosecutor once we'd arrived onto the stage...

Furina:

Oh?

Furina:

Hehehe, is that so? Then I suppose I must have missed my final chance...

Furina:

...

Furina:

It's fine, it matters not. What's done is done...

Furina:

The stage is already set, so there's no reason to disappoint the audience. Let's see this trial through to the very end!

Traveler:

(Yeah... The only thing we can do now is to judge the Hydro Archon.)

Traveler:

(Still, I can't help but be a little bothered by that conversation earlier. What did Furina want to say to me right before we arrived on the stage...?)

Esmond:

Sir Prosecutor, please allow me to pass this along...

Esmond:

This is a document that Miss Charlotte applied for and received permission to share with you during the trial. According to her, it should speed up the proceedings.

Paimon:

Huh? Charlotte wanted to give us something? Ooh, so she's here too. Hey, Charlotte!

Paimon:

Let Paimon see... Isn't this the "exclusive interview" that she did with us before? So she's already finished it, huh?

Paimon:

Wait, then that means this document is a perfect timeline of everything that's happened ever since we stepped foot in Fontaine...

Paimon:

So in other words... we can refer to this "anthology of evidence" every time we want to use something from our journey as evidence for an argument!

Paimon:

Let's quickly confirm the information in it... Just think of it as a refresher, alright?

Refute Furina

Neuvillette:

The prosecution and the defense are both in position. The trial shall now begin.

Furina:

Come on, Neuvillette. There's no need to repeat all the unimportant legalese.

Furina:

Just fast forward to the part where the prosecution lays out my offenses. As the defendant, and the lead actress of this performance, I still haven't even been informed of my supposed guilt in all of this.

Furina:

Of course, it is only natural for humans to struggle to understand the actions of a god. However, you will need more than that to convict me of a crime...

Traveler:

That is true, but my charge here is unrelated to your conduct as an Archon.

Traveler:

Instead, I would like to charge you as a fraud who's never been the Archon in the first place.

Astonished Audience Member:

Wait... what was that? Lady Furina's a fraud?

Doubtful Audience Member:

Hey... I came here thinking that we were going to try the Hydro Archon for forsaking her duty, but did I hear that right? She's not our Archon at all?

Neuvillette:

Charge accepted.

Neuvillette:

Lady Furina. Do you plead guilty to the charge?

Furina:

...

Neuvillette:

Lady Furina?

Furina:

I plead not guilty. How can I be guilty?

Furina:

There is no way that I, Focalors, otherwise known as Furina de Fontaine, a member of The Seven, and the Regina of All Waters, Kindreds, Peoples and Laws of Fontaine, could be anything other than your true Archon.

Fair-Minded Audience Member:

Yeah... Even though Lady Furina can be rather eccentric, isn't it going too far to doubt her very identity?

Suspicious Audience Member:

Yeah, I've never questioned her identity either. Sure, Lady Furina can be super irresponsible, but what grounds does that prosecutor have to make such a huge claim...

Furina:

I have cause to believe that common sense will prevail in this case. Many of the members of the audience have known me as the Hydro Archon ever since they were born — there would be no fooling their memory.

Furina:

See? Even the Oratrice has decided to show me its favor. Are you sure you want to commit to a charge that will never be upheld?

Furina:

If you wish to drop the case, I can promise you, as the God of Justice, that you will not have to face trial for making a false accusation. We will treat everything that's happened as a dramatic spectacle, and move on with our lives. What do you say to that?

Navia:

An argument with near-impossible odds, huh? We have to not only refute Furina's claims, but also overturn the long-held beliefs of the people...

Furina:

Well, I tried to give you the chance to surrender. If you must persist, then let me ask: If you believe I'm not the Archon, then what manner of being do you think I am?

Furina:

And if I was not the Archon, then how did I manage to live for over five hundred years?

Traveler:

(I've got to think carefully... What do we know to be "special" about Furina, exactly?)

Paimon:

First of all, you may be a member of another long-lived race, which would allow you to naturally possess an extended lifespan. And second of all, even if that wasn't the case, there could be other ways to extend your life...

Traveler:

Such as... a curse.

Furina:

Hmph... Who gave you that idea? Was it The Knave? You'd sink so low as to use a Harbinger's words against me?

Neuvillette:

A curse... I once thought it possible that the aura of an Archon might naturally resemble a type of curse.

Neuvillette:

But in light of this claim, perhaps what I sensed was not your divinity, but a curse after all?

Paimon:

Neuvillette sensed it too, huh?

Surprised Audience Member:

Lady Furina... is actually human?

Contemplative Audience Member:

Well, it is true that it's extremely difficult to tell humans and gods apart just by looking at them. It's not impossible...

Furina:

Well, don't start celebrating too early now. Even if I have been carrying a curse like you said, how does that prove that I am merely a human being?

Furina:

Besides, everyone knows that the main difference between a human and a god is the possession of "authority." Gods can do what humans cannot — that's why they're worshipped as gods.

Furina:

For centuries, manifestations of my authority have served the nation of Fontaine.

Furina:

One need only to turn their eyes towards the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale in this very opera house, or consider the Indemnitium that is used in every aspect of life.

Traveler:

(Wait... That one trial proved the opposite. Furina actually has no control over the Oratrice at all...)

Paimon:

You tried to reference the Oratrice, but weren't you as confused as all the rest of us when the Oratrice declared Childe to be guilty without any proof? Otherwise, you should have come up with a good explanation for that by now...

Furina:

Didn't I make myself clear at the time? The decisions of the gods are naturally difficult for humans to comprehend. There is no need to provide an explanation...

Neuvillette:

Lady Furina, I believe a reminder of your current circumstances is in order.

Neuvillette:

While the court is in session, the principles of justice and the law must come before all else. While you are an Archon, you are also first and foremost the defendant in this trial.

Neuvillette:

You will prove yourself unable to defend against the prosecution's charges if you continue to withhold vital information against the rules of the court.

Furina:

I never thought... You'd use that kind of rhetoric against me...

Neuvillette:

That was no trick of rhetoric, Lady Furina. I have merely reiterated the rules of the court, rules that all should respect and follow.

Furina:

...

Paimon:

So, you neither knew why Childe was declared guilty, nor did you understand the structure and operations of the Oratrice...

Paimon:

Instead of having been created by you, the "manifestations of authority" you mentioned have been made by the real Hydro Archon, haven't they?

Furina:

The real Hydro Archon? Well, now you're really losing me.

Furina:

It is true that I did not know why the Oratrice gave out a guilty verdict that day.

Furina:

But the Oratrice handed out that verdict unilaterally, and it has been operating independently ever since it was first created.

Furina:

You can't... You can't argue that just because a divine creation is flawed, that the god behind it must also be no god at all.

Paimon:

She's still throwing out all kinds of excuses... Seems like she's confident that we won't be able to produce proof that she has no power over the Oratrice.

Furina:

My power as an Archon? There are many ordinary citizens in the audience. How can I just carelessly demonstrate the formidable power of an Archon...

Neuvillette:

If that poses a concern, I'm prepared to extend my protection to the audience.

Furina:

Erm... Y—You don't need to go that far...

Furina:

I... Uh...

Paimon:

Aren't you the Hydro Archon? Or is it that you can't even wield the power of Hydro, much less the authority of a god?

Furina:

...Indemnitium, yes, it's all because of Indemnitium! All Archons derive their power from the faith of the people, and I've converted the people's faith in justice into Indemnitium.

Furina:

Thus did I give up all of my divine power to provide everyone with energy for their daily lives. Have you ever seen a more magnanimous god?

Suspicious Audience Member:

Isn't that... a huge stretch?

Retorting Audience Member:

Yeah, no matter how generous an Archon can be, how could they give up all of their power? Can a god with no power even still be called a god?

Paimon:

It seems like nobody's buying Furina's excuse.

Furina:

Hey, come now, everyone... Please don't stare at me as if I was a liar...

Furina:

I'm still the same Furina you knew, right? The one that you loved? Shouldn't you want to believe in me?

Furina:

Please... You've got to believe me...

Serious Audience Member:

If what the prosecutor said is true, she really has committed a grave offense...

Thinking Audience Member:

Did she deceive all of us, and all of our parents and grandparents too? And all of our ancestors, ever since they were born?

Furina:

Enough... That's enough...

Furina:

Tell me, then...! If I'm not the real Hydro Archon, then who is?

Furina:

If you have no evidence of another Hydro Archon's existence, nor can you find anyone who can back up their claim to be such, then what grounds have you to say that I'm not actually the real deal?

Paimon:

Wow, she came up with yet another argument... Ugh, how can we refute her now? Seems like she really doesn't want to give up.

Traveler:

(If we can't prove that she isn't the Archon, we can try to prove that she is just a human. And if she's only human...)

Paimon:

It has been established that all Fontainians can dissolve in water from the Primordial Sea. And that means...

Navia:

Since you insist on claiming to be a god and not a human, then there's a method that you can use right here and now to eliminate all suspicions of you being the latter.

Neuvillette:

Miss Navia, please apply to serve as a temporary attorney for the prosecution before addressing the court. Though you act in partnership with the prosecutor, you must still adhere to proper procedure.

Navia:

Super sorry, Monsieur Chief Justice. I swear this really will be the last time that I'll speak out of turn.

Navia:

Now, I've brought some seawater from Poisson. As everyone knows, a massive flood struck the area not long ago, taking many lives...

Navia:

...Including those of some of my closest friends.

Navia:

So, Miss Furina, would you dare to touch some of this seawater?

Navia:

If we are to believe that you are indeed the real Hydro Archon, touching this seawater would have no effect on you. All it should do is strengthen your case.

Navia:

But if you don't dare to touch it, then we would have basically proved the reverse.

Navia:

Oh, and I must remind you that after the disaster at Poisson, nobody wants to see any more people dissolve.

Navia:

I do hope you'll act prudently, and choose the simpler path of admitting guilt.

Agreeing Audience Member:

Navia from the Spina di Rosula... The Spina has governed Poisson for many years... I guess her suggestion is valid.

Pondering Audience Member:

If Lady Furina is indeed just a human, she's probably a Fontainian like all the rest of us. Would she really dare to try...?

Furina gazes at the water silently.

Furina:

...

Traveler:

Uh... Furina?

Neuvillette:

Lady Furina, this "test" has been unilaterally proposed by the prosecution. As it falls outside the realm of standard court proceedings, you possess the right to decline participation.

Furina:

...

Conscientious Audience Member:

Well, of course he had to tell her that, but refusing to participate is basically the same as a confession of guilt.

Worried Audience Member:

She's just staring at the water without saying a single word... It really does seem like she's quite terrified of it. That could only mean...

Navia:

(What's going on? Is she really planning to... That's not what we thought she would...)

Furina:

*inhale*... *exhale*...

Neuvillette:

Due to the inherent risk of the test, Lady Furina, you may—

Furina makes up her mind and plunges her hand into the water.

Furina:

—!

Paimon:

Waaaaaah!

Navia:

Hey!

Traveler:

She actually...

Furina:

*pant*... *pant*... Ahh...

Furina:

I... I'm fine! Look! Look at me, everyone. My hand is still here. I haven't been dissolved!

Furina:

Will you believe me now? I really am your Archon. I'm nothing like a normal human, who would fall apart as soon as they touch this water. Really, was this not the most obvious thing in the world?

Neuvillette:

Miss Sigewinne? If you are present, Miss Sigewinne, please come forward and attend to the defendant.

Furina:

Sige...winne?

Sigewinne:

Don't be nervous, it'll just take a few seconds... Hmm, let me see...

Sigewinne:

Mm-hmm, that should be enough.

Neuvillette:

Please announce the results of your evaluation to the court, Miss Sigewinne.

Sigewinne:

As everyone doubtlessly saw, Miss Furina was displaying symptoms of hyperventilation and flushed skin. These indicate that...

Sigewinne:

She was experiencing the adverse effects of exposure to Primordial Seawater. The extent to which she was affected is the same as other humans when exposed to Primordial Seawater of a similar concentration.

Neuvillette:

Thank you, Miss Sigewinne. Lady Furina, you may return to the defendant's stand.

Furina:

Wait. What did she just say? I didn't get dissolved! Shouldn't that be enough to prove my innocence?

Navia:

Well, considering your tendency to run from your problems, we did originally prepare a direct sample of the seawater around Poisson.

Navia:

However, after extensive discussion, we exchanged it for a sample that is not concentrated enough to dissolve an actual human. After all, on the off chance that something entirely unexpected might occur...

Navia:

We don't want anyone else to lose their life to the sea.

Paimon:

Yeah, so out of regard for Furina's life, you secured a low concentration sample, and asked the head nurse to serve as an expert witness...

Paimon:

It's a great thing that the direct sample wasn't actually used. Furina could have...

Furina:

I... I can't believe... You...

Traveler:

(But what's really going on here? Furina can't have not known the consequences of touching that water as a human...)

Traveler:

(This is too unlike how she usually acts... Unless... It's actually more important for her to keep up her facade than to save her own life!?)

Traveler:

(But... hadn't she given up on everything a long time ago?)

Furina:

Listen to me, listen to me, everyone... Please don't give me such cold and disdainful looks. What happened just now didn't prove a single thing!

Furina:

Think about it. How can you conclusively prove that an Archon can't also be affected by the Primordial Seawater?

Furina:

Also, also! If I was really just a human, why would I dare to just put my hand in that kind of water!?

Furina:

...Please, everyone, anyone, just listen to me. I swear, I really am your Archon...

Exasperated Audience Member:

*sigh*...

Exasperated Audience Member:

...I don't think anything she says at this point will sway anyone. The odds are just too stacked against her now...

Paimon:

With all the things that have been said... Paimon doesn't think there's any way left for Furina to win.

Neuvillette:

I believe the time for argument and presentation of evidence has come to an end. If there are no objections, we will move on to the final judgment.

Furina:

...

Neuvillette:

In my capacity as Chief Justice, I shall now render judgment on Furina's misrepresentation of herself as the Archon of Fontaine. As a human who knowingly deceived her fellow citizens, Furina is—

Neuvillette:

...Guilty.

Neuvillette:

We shall now turn to the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale to render the final verdict on the charges.

Neuvillette:

According to the judgment of the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale, Furina is—

Neuvillette:

...Hmm?

Paimon:

Wh—What's wrong? What's the Oratrice's verdict?

Neuvillette:

...No, the Oratrice also displays a guilty verdict.

Paimon:

Isn't that correct, then?

Neuvillette:

However, the exact wording of the verdict is thus. "The Hydro Archon, guilty"...

Neuvillette:

"To be punished via the death sentence."

Astonished Audience Member:

The... The death sentence!?

Doubtful Audience Member:

That's actually one of the available sentences!? I've always thought that it was just a myth...

Emotional Audience Member:

The one and only time the death sentence has been handed out at the court, and it's been given to the very person we've worshipped as the God of Justice? What an unexpected twist...

Furina:

...

Paimon:

Furina's been sentenced to death by the Oratrice!? We just wanted to use the trial to show her the seriousness of things, so she'd tell us the truth... How did things escalate this quickly!?

Neuvillette:

This outcome is indeed quite strange. According to Fontaine's current definitions of justice, as well as its recommendations for criminal sentences...

Neuvillette:

Is this sentence really appropriate for the crimes that have been committed...?

Paimon:

Yeah, even Vacher wasn't sentenced to death by the Oratrice... You know, the real evil mastermind behind the serial disappearances case.

Neuvillette:

Indeed. Not only is Furina's sentence overly excessive, the very point of our trial today was also to prove that Furina has never been the Hydro Archon in the first place.

Neuvillette:

But now, the Oratrice seems to have deliberately invoked the title of the "Hydro Archon." What does this mean?

View the final prophecy slate

Freminet:

Err... Excuse me... If I may interrupt...

Freminet:

Is... the trial still going?

Lyney:

Freminet! You finally made it. I assume this means you've completed your mission?

Freminet:

Mhm. Any mission "Father" assigns to me will always be top priority.

With some help from the other Fatui, Freminet brings a stone slate onto the stage...

Paimon:

Is that the first prophecy slate?

Paimon:

Huh, so The Knave privately arranged for Freminet to try and find the missing slate.

Freminet:

I looked everywhere, and finally found it at the bottom of the sea. It took me a long time to get around some dangerous stretches of water...

Freminet:

But... has the trial already concluded? Then... Doesn't that mean I've come too late? Oh no, "Father" will be disappointed in me...

Neuvillette:

Thank you for your hard work, Mr. Freminet. Please allow me to review the record left on the slate.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

Traveler, I believe that you have also already seen the other existing slates. I would like you to also come here and confirm their contents.

Paimon:

Huh... So what do you see? What is it?

Traveler:

This looks like...

Neuvillette:

I believe I have now made sense of the Hydro Archon's crime. It has to do with Fontaine's lost history.

Paimon:

Huh? Isn't the Hydro Archon just guilty of deceiving her people... Wait, no, that's Furina, and we've already proven that she's not the Hydro Archon...

Paimon:

So when you say "Hydro Archon," do you mean the real Hydro Archon we've been kind of talking about?

Neuvillette:

In truth, everything that you've encountered in Fontaine up until this point can be traced back to the contents of these stone slates.

Neuvillette:

However, I am uncertain as to how much sense they currently make to you.

Traveler:

An association between the contents of the slates and the events in real life...

Paimon:

Okay, let's try to recall the contents of the other three stone slates... Paimon will do her best to help you remember!

Discover the connection between the events in real life and the slates

Talk to Neuvillette

Paimon:

Huh, oh, Paimon gets it now... So that's how you can make sense of it...

Paimon:

But then it feels like... We're going to have to share some truly shocking revelations.

Neuvillette:

Let's hear them.

Lynette:

Incredible. Lyney, did you hear that?

Lyney:

We're... not real humans?

Paimon:

All Fontainians were originally created by the late previous Hydro Archon, with Oceanids as their basis.

Paimon:

The evidence for that can be found in... How only Fontainians could dissolve in Primordial Seawater, and how all the girls Vacher dissolved were also turned into Oceanids...

Paimon:

Oh, and according to Navia, when she was about to get dissolved, she also saw everyone gathered around for a trial, all of them in the shape of Oceanids...

Neuvillette:

Indeed.

Paimon:

Yeah, and it follows from the content of the first slate that she probably angered Celestia by creating humans without prior permission.

Paimon:

That could also explain why the Oratrice judged the Hydro Archon to be guilty — it's to account for that ancient "sin."

Navia:

The Hydro Archon's true sin... was creating us?

Neuvillette:

And yet, after many hundreds of years, the Hydro Archon's creations have turned around to try to judge the Archon within the Opera Epiclese. The twists of history are often the most unexpected of all.

Paimon:

Yeah, isn't the image here just like when Navia fell into the sea?

Paimon:

So, wouldn't it be trying to show the image of the Hydro Archon also falling into the sea once the prophecy has been fulfilled in the fourth slate?

Paimon:

In the end, the people will all be dissolved into the waters, and only the Hydro Archon will remain, weeping on her throne... Only then will the sins of the people of Fontaine be washed away.

Paimon:

Did Paimon get all that right?

Neuvillette:

You've made some keen deductions. I must say, given how much you still don't know, it is impressive that you've already managed to connect so many pieces of the truth.

Neuvillette:

However... While you were able to decode all the information on the slates, they had also been etched with an additional layer of hidden information using a different power source.

Neuvillette:

When we were at the ruins, I tried to decipher the hidden information recorded in the slates. But since we only had three slates at the time, I was unable to come to a full conclusion.

Neuvillette:

Now that the slate collection is complete, I shall make another attempt to decipher the narrative recorded within. If everything goes well, we should finally be informed of the unadulterated truth.

Neuvillette:

...

Paimon:

W—Well? Did you get it?

Neuvillette:

I believe I should share this truth not only with you, but with all the people of Fontaine as well. I will try to briefly summarize it for you...

Neuvillette:

Your hypotheses regarding the origin of Fontainians and the sin of the Hydro Archon were both correct.

Neuvillette:

In the Fontaine of old, the previous Hydro Archon sensed the yearning of her Oceanid familiars for life on land.

Neuvillette:

The Oceanids were enamored with the beauty and romanticism of human beings, and wishing to have those experiences for themselves, expressed to the Hydro Archon their desire to become of a similar kind.

Neuvillette:

However, even though water as an element is intricately linked with the power of life, the Hydro Archon, as one of The Seven, did not possess the authority to create a new form of human life.

Neuvillette:

Not one to give in, she eventually found a way to create permanent humanoid bodies for her familiars by appropriating the power of this planet's Primordial Sea.

Neuvillette:

She poured Primordial Seawater into the Oceanids' blood vessels, creating humanoid mimics in the process.

Neuvillette:

But if Fontainians were to ever come into direct contact with Water from the Primordial Sea, the power within their bodies would escape these artificial restraints and return to the Sea. As a result, their forms would collapse, and they would be reverted to their original forms as Oceanids.

Neuvillette:

Of course, the Hydro Archon never received permission from the Heavenly Principles to create a new "human" race...

Neuvillette:

And thus, the Hydro Archon and all of her creations came to shoulder the original sin of "appropriating the power of the Primordial Sea."

Neuvillette:

...That is the true history of how the people of Fontaine first came into being.

Bewildered Audience Member:

So you... I... We were all Oceanids before we were turned into human beings?

Out-Of-Control Audience Member:

That's way too much information for me... I think I'm just going to pretend that I never heard a single thing.

Dozy Audience Member:

Wait, but if that's the truth, we can't let the Hydro Archon be sentenced to death! After all, her only sin was creating us...

Paimon:

This really might be too much information for your regular Fontainian... But it does answer a lot of our questions.

Neuvillette:

Alas, your hypothesis regarding the third and fourth stone slates was inaccurate. The slates' respective positions are, in fact, correct.

Neuvillette:

A key point of the visual on the third slate is how all the individuals depicted in the water are humans, rather than Oceanids.

Neuvillette:

They have not been dissolved, which implies that the water depicted in this slate is not water from the Primordial Sea.

Neuvillette:

The nation of Fontaine is the nation of Hydro as well as the nation of trials and justice. Instead of being the literal element, the water in the scene symbolizes judgment and justice.

Neuvillette:

You may also recall Navia's experience. When she fell into the sea, her consciousness was surrounded by that of many others, who intended to hold a trial to determine her fate.

Neuvillette:

Therefore, the meaning of the third slate is...

Neuvillette:

...That the people of Fontaine shall try the Hydro Archon at the court of justice.

Neuvillette:

Yes, it refers to our present situation.

Navia:

I think I'm following now. So what you're saying is, even though we decided to put on this trial to avoid fulfilling the prophecy...

Navia:

In truth, everything we've done has happened exactly as the prophecy foretold... So now it seems we're the ones making sure it comes true...

Paimon:

Wh—What should we do?

Clorinde:

No matter what, the prophecy will be fulfilled... Is this what it feels like to be a prisoner of fate?

Paimon:

If that's the case... Does that mean the scene in the fourth slate will also be fulfilled soon?

Neuvillette:

Traveler, I would like to point out another small fallacy in your deductions.

Neuvillette:

About the fourth slate — you probably thought that the eruption of Primordial Seawater beneath the Fortress of Meropide served as the surest sign that the prophecy was about to come to pass, yes?

Neuvillette:

However, I believe that rather than being a sure sign, that eruption could in fact only be a small warning of something far worse to come.

Neuvillette:

As for the root cause of the catastrophe... I believe you've already encountered it once before.

Find the source of the calamity in the prophecy slates

The All-Devouring Narwhal Appears

movie

A powerful earthquake suddenly strikes, sending the audience fleeing for the exits. A huge hole in space opens up in the middle of the opera house, and a gargantuan whale leaps forth. Neuvillette's initial attempts to stop it are unsuccessful, and the creature switches direction, preparing to target the escaping crowd. At this moment, Childe, clad in his Foul Legacy form, emerges from the hole and attacks the beast. Seizing the opportunity, Neuvillette teams up with Childe to repel the whale. The latter then loses consciousness, falling into the hole.

Discuss how to deal with the All-Devouring Narwhal

Paimon:

That was way too close! How did that thing just burst into the opera house!? Wait. Was that the huge whale you saw in your dream?

Neuvillette:

So, we've met it at last... I understand very well why it has chosen to make an appearance here.

Neuvillette:

That "whale" does not belong to Teyvat. It is a monster that has traversed the stars, weeping all the while.

Neuvillette:

It has been greedily consuming the energy from the planet's Primordial Sea, using it to grow. That is the main cause for the rising sea levels...

Neuvillette:

And once it has finished consuming all of the energy contained within the Sea, its next step will be...

Clorinde:

You said that when the Hydro Archon first created Fontainians out of Oceanids, she filled their blood vessels with Primordial Seawater...

Neuvillette:

Precisely. That whale finds the "blood" of Fontainians nigh impossible to resist.

Neuvillette:

Therefore, when it left the Primordial Sea, it decided to make its next stop a packed opera house full of food — food in the form of Fontainians.

Navia:

We just barely managed to push it back, right? In that case... Won't it come back to target the people again once it's managed to recover its strength?

Neuvillette:

That is correct. Indeed, it is more accurate to say that we should thank that Harbinger for buying us some time. Without him, the whale would have likely come onto land far sooner.

Neuvillette:

From the way he looked, he must have been fighting the creature for quite a long time.

Paimon:

That battle maniac... We've always known that he had a special connection with that whale, but we definitely didn't expect it to help us out like this.

Paimon:

Anyway, now that we know that this whale is the actual cause of the disaster recorded in the prophecy, all we need to do to stop the prophecy would be to find a way to beat it up, right?

Neuvillette:

It is too late...

Traveler:

What do you mean?

Neuvillette:

It had already absorbed too much of the Primordial Sea's energy before we could notice it. At this point, it has become practically integrated with the Sea itself.

Neuvillette:

Even if the entirety of Teyvat were to be destroyed, it could still survive, and swim off towards some other world.

Navia:

That... That's not something I will accept.

Navia:

We've already done everything we can, and we even found the true culprit...

Navia:

We've come so far! You can't just tell me that the last hurdle is some impossible foe. That's just not fair.

Lyney:

Indeed. That's not how a grand performance should end.

Clorinde:

I'll fight it to the end. No matter what.

Paimon:

So the prophecy will be fulfilled no matter what, huh...

Traveler:

...

Mage "N":

The prophecy... Yes, what has been prophesized will be fulfilled. You may view such things as "the history of the future."

Traveler:

(After everything, it still turned out like this... We couldn't fight against fate.)

Traveler:

(Wait, but if this is all about fate...)

Mage "N":

Just as prophecies are usually only the future as seen from the perspectives of the gods, could things be happening in hidden corners where the gods' gaze does not fall?

Mage "N":

Ultimately, fate shall serve as your only guide no matter what will happen in Teyvat's future. All you need to do is to play your part.

Traveler:

(Could it be... That even if the prophecy will be fulfilled, there will still be a way to save everyone?)

Traveler:

(Did I... miss something...?)

Traveler:

(Wait, I forgot about Furina! What was it that she wanted to say to me at that last moment, in the Giant Magic Box?)

Traveler:

(What is her real secret?)

movie

The Oratrice's energies suddenly go berserk as the "death sentence" is enacted. You race toward Furina with great urgency. You reach out your hand, and the tears streaking down her face land on your outstretched hand, transporting you into another space. At this time, Neuvillette is also consumed by the Oratrice's light, causing him to enter a separate space as well. Before him stands Focalors, and above her head is a giant, rotating blade of pure energy in the shape of a sword.

Deluge of Wrathful Waters

This is the day you get out of prison, and you proceed to complete the paperwork for your release as arranged.

Wait until the next day (08:00 – 12:00)

Return to the dormitories

Some time has passed since the incident in the Fortress of Meropide, and your sentence here is almost finished.

Paimon:

Ahh... Now for a little rest after breakfast... This is the life~

Paimon:

Wait a sec, isn't something important supposed to happen today...?

Paimon:

Oh! Today's our big day! We're supposed to leave the Fortress of Meropide! C'mon, we've gotta go complete the release procedures now.

Talk to the receptionist

Monglane:

Please sign here. This document will be effective immediately upon signing and you two may exit the Fortress of Meropide via the regular channels.

Paimon:

It's been so long since we've been to the surface, let's hurry up and—

Paimon:

Huh!?

Monglane:

Ah? What's happening...?

Traveler:

Are you okay?

Monglane:

I'm fine, thanks... But I wonder what that tremor was just now.

Paimon:

Let's go ask the Duke.

Go to the office

Talk to Wriothesley

Paimon:

Your Grace~!

Wriothesley:

Ah, good to see you two. Is there something you wish to see me about?

Paimon:

Yeah! What was with that earthquake just now?

Wriothesley:

Ah, that. The tremor didn't originate from the seafloor... in fact, it seems it came from the surface.

Wriothesley:

Over the years of serving as the warden here, I've developed a sense for distinguishing between what occurs on the surface and what occurs underwater. Besides, the seal that Monsieur Neuvillette set in place won't fail so easily.

Paimon:

So the Fortress is okay?

Wriothesley:

If you recall our last incident, if there really were a problem, there would be crowds of inmates in a panic right now.

Paimon:

Huh. You've got a point... Okay, seems we need to get back up to the surface and ask about what happened.

Paimon:

By the way, do you know what day it is today?

Wriothesley:

I believe today is this month's pipe-cleaning day.

Paimon:

Wait, seriously!?

Traveler:

Actually, today is the day we say goodbye to the Fortress.

Wriothesley:

Ah, yes. Have you completed your release papers?

Paimon:

Yep!

Sigewinne:

Ah, it's you two! Are you leaving now?

Paimon:

That's right! Today is our last day in prison... But now that Paimon says that, it doesn't feel like we were confined here. It's actually been pretty nice.

Traveler:

A lot of people have helped us out.

Paimon:

Oh, yeah. Paimon feels fond of this place now.

Sigewinne:

Then be sure to come back and visit! I'll miss you.

Wriothesley:

If you've signed the release papers, then you're free to go. The guards will escort you out.

Paimon:

You're not going to see us off?

Wriothesley:

Heh, I knew you would ask... Alright, sure. Let's go.

Paimon:

Wow, you actually agreed... No worries, you must be busy. Paimon was just joking...

Wriothesley:

Ah, so you do have a polite side, I see.

Sigewinne:

After being down here for so long, I imagine you must feel like you're lacking companionship... Shall I come along too?

Traveler:

No, that's alright. It's not like we'll never visit again.

Paimon:

Yeah, don't worry, we'll come back to see you! Paimon really likes the cafeteria here — the chefs sure do know how to make good grub.

Wriothesley:

I hope you won't be here as convicts the next time I see you.

Paimon:

We'll do our best to stay out of trouble!

Paimon:

Well, it seems our work in the Fortress of Meropide is finished. That's the end of another chapter in our journey. And since Neuvillette was the one who asked us to come here...

Paimon:

We should probably go report to him now. Next stop, the Palais Mermonia!

Sigewinne:

You're going to go see Monsieur Neuvillette? Haha, please pass on our kind regards.

Wriothesley:

I'm sure just your regards will do, no?

Sigewinne:

I believe it would be the polite thing to do.

Wriothesley:

You're right... I've heard the Palais has been terribly busy these days. Tell him that I hope he hasn't been overwhelmed by the recent string of troubles.

Go to the Palais Mermonia

Talk to Neuvillette

Paimon:

The Palais Mermonia sure is buzzing with activity today...

Sedene:

Halt! Huh? Oh, it's you two! Apologies, Monsieur Neuvillette did say that you'd be welcome at any time...

Isadora:

Excuse me, would you mind helping me take a look at this report?

Sedene:

I'll be right there. Sorry, I've got my hands full here... You can see yourselves in.

Paimon:

Everyone's so busy. Seems a lot has been happening...

Paimon:

Neuvillette~!

Neuvillette:

Hello. You've come at the right time, but you'll have to wait for just a moment, as there are some urgent matters I must tend to first.

Neuvillette:

In the meantime, please, have a seat. If you'd like to have something to drink, let the Melusine outside know.

Paimon:

That's alright, we just ate.

Neuvillette:

Very well, then.

Paimon:

Let's take a break over there while we wait for him to finish his work.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

Alright, that should wrap things up for now.

Paimon:

Are you done with your work?

Neuvillette:

Yes, sorry to keep you waiting.

Neuvillette:

Today should be the day you were released from the Fortress of Meropide, and it appears that you've managed to complete all the release paperwork.

Paimon:

That's right, and we came here to see you right away.

You and Paimon tell Neuvillette everything that happened since the Primordial Sea incident, as well as your dream regarding Childe...

Neuvillette:

Hmm, a massive whale...

Paimon:

Do you have any idea what that might be?

Neuvillette:

Judging from your description, that cannot have occurred in any ordinary waters, but rather, something like the Primordial Sea.

Neuvillette:

A whale of that size and shape cannot usually be found in the waters of Teyvat. Therefore... We can only assume that Childe is presently immersed in Primordial Seawater.

Paimon:

...Immersed in Primordial Seawater? But how? ...And is he okay?

Traveler:

He's not from Fontaine, so he won't dissolve.

Paimon:

Oh, true... But how did he end up in the Primordial Sea? Can people even get there?

Neuvillette:

Most people wouldn't be capable of entering in the first place. I'm not completely sure how he could have gotten there, myself.

Traveler:

There's something we'd like to ask you about.

Neuvillette:

Yes, what is it?

Traveler:

What was that tremor we felt earlier?

Paimon:

Ah right, Paimon felt it too!

Paimon:

We asked the Duke, and he said it wasn't from underwater, so we figured you might know something about it.

Neuvillette:

It turns out that I have just received a report about this particular matter. In fact, that's exactly what I was busy with a moment ago.

Neuvillette:

The source of the tremor was here on the surface, near Poisson. After the shaking stopped, the water levels in the Poisson area rose at an alarming rate.

Paimon:

The water levels rose? Oh no — what about all the people there?

Neuvillette:

Fortunately, the water levels only rose for a short period of time, and have already returned to normal now. However, I still have a bad feeling about the whole phenomenon...

Neuvillette:

If the change in water levels is connected with the leaking Primordial Seawater, then the situation in Poisson may be much worse than it appears.

Paimon:

Navia should be in Poisson, right? We need to go check on her!

Traveler:

Yes, Spina di Rosula's headquarters is there.

Neuvillette:

I would also like to go there as soon as possible, but I'm afraid I can't leave just yet. We must immediately formulate disaster prevention plans for the surrounding coastal areas to avoid potential catastrophes.

Neuvillette:

I'll have to ask you two to go to Poisson first. I'll meet you there to check on the situation once I've finished things here.

Traveler:

Sounds like a plan.

Paimon:

There's no time to lose — let's get going!

Neuvillette:

Please be careful.

Go to Poisson

Paimon:

Oh no... What happened here...?

Traveler:

(All the buildings here seem to be in pretty rough shape now...)

Traveler:

(There's nobody around... Were they all dissolved? No, let's not assume the worst yet...)

Paimon:

Navia should be around here, right? We need to make sure she's still... Uh, Paimon means, we need to check on her!

Look for Navia in Poisson

Paimon:

We haven't seen a single soul all the way here... Ohh, this is getting scary!

Disaster Victim (M):

Ah! What will I ever do now!?

Paimon:

Look, there's someone on the roof over there!

Spina di Rosula Member:

Just stay put, we're coming up. Watch your balance!

Disaster Victim (M):

Ah, alright... Just hurry!

Desyree's Father:

*sigh* I'm not young anymore... How will I survive on my own?

Desyree's Father:

*sobbing* Oh, my Desyree...

Paimon:

*sigh* He looks pretty sad.

Disaster Victim (F):

My leg... Ah, my leg...

Disaster Victim (F):

How could this have happened... Ah, it hurts...

Spina di Rosula Member:

Just hang in there! Help is on the way! You can hold my hand if it makes you feel better.

Continue looking for Navia

Paimon:

Oh, it's Navia! She's over there!

Paimon:

Hey! Navia! Are you okay?

Navia:

...

Navia:

You're here.

Paimon:

We heard there was a situation in Poisson, so we came as quickly as we could.

Navia:

Yes... As you can see, the water levels suddenly rose — it caused quite the disturbance, in fact.

Spina di Rosula Member:

Demoiselle! There was a wounded resident next to a building southeast of here. We've already transported him to safety, but we've run out of medical supplies.

Navia:

He's wounded? How badly?

Spina di Rosula Member:

He fell, so it's probably a broken leg. He's pretty shaken up. When the water level rose, he desperately climbed up to the roof. Once the water receded and he saw the ground, he became terrified and eventually...

Navia:

He jumped down, then.

Navia:

Find the leader of Squad One and tell him to take the wounded resident to see a doctor. He should know where to go.

Spina di Rosula Member:

Understood! I'll take over his search and rescue mission in the meantime!

Navia:

Alright, you'll be in charge.

Navia:

I'm sorry, where were we...?

Paimon:

Uh, the situation in Poisson...

Navia:

Ah, right. Allow me to explain.

Navia:

A little earlier, we suddenly heard a loud noise. At first, everyone thought that something might have exploded on the aquabus, but before we knew it, water started pouring out from everywhere.

Navia:

The rushing water seemed a little odd, almost like the unique color of Primordial Seawater. Some people didn't realize the danger and thought it was just ordinary water leaking from somewhere.

Navia:

Everyone on the street who happened to be close to the water didn't have a chance to escape. As the water levels rose, they suddenly disappeared. They were all dissolved...

Navia:

Those who realized what was happening started to flee in a panic, desperately trying to get to higher ground. Many were injured in the stampede, and some... some people fell from significant heights...

Navia:

The Spina di Rosula initiated rescue operations as quickly as possible, but there have been a lot of casualties. Fortunately, the water began to recede after some time, and the chaos came to an end.

Navia:

The water that flooded the area contained Primordial Seawater, so the lower levels of Poisson are still hazardous. To ensure everyone's safety, I've asked the people there to leave as soon as possible.

Navia:

No one knows if this could happen again. All we can do for now is try our best to help evacuate the residents. We still haven't completed the headcount, but we'll have some numbers soon.

Paimon:

How awful... And all of this just came out of nowhere...

Navia:

...It was quite frightening indeed. I only wish that everything that just happened was a bad dream.

Paimon:

Is there any way we can help, Navia?

Navia:

Thank you for being so willing to help in a moment of crisis like this. You don't know how much it means to me... I really... can't express how grateful I am.

Traveler:

(Wait, we're missing some people, aren't we...?)

Paimon:

Don't say that, Navia. That's what friends are for...

Traveler:

By the way, where are Melus and Silver?

Navia:

...

Spina di Rosula Member:

Demoiselle! We've got a situation here!

Navia:

Ah, I'll be right there!

Navia:

Sorry, I need to go for now.

Paimon:

And off she goes... Seems it might be a while before she can take a break.

Traveler:

...

Navia walks around talking with many people and organizing various matters. Her decisions are clear and reasonable, her face is marred by a somber expression throughout...

Navia:

...Okay, the wounded are being tended to, and we've finished a preliminary headcount. More support has just arrived, so I suppose I finally have a moment to focus on my own matters.

Navia:

Of course, we should remain ready for anything and continue doing our best to rescue others. I'll be sure to have everyone at the Spina di Rosula ready to render assistance.

Navia:

Traveler, Paimon, would you two accompany me to my father's grave for a moment?

Paimon:

Huh? Right now?

Traveler:

...I understand.

Navia:

Thank you.

Go to the cemetery

Talk to Navia

Navia:

...Not a lot of people here, huh?

Paimon:

Well, given the time of day and the whole situation in Poisson, Paimon doesn't think there'd be a ton of people here visiting graves...

Navia:

Right. That's how things are now... The living are so exhausted that they've no strength to spare any words for the dead.

Paimon:

Um, Navia...

Traveler:

There's no need to push yourself so hard.

Navia:

...

Navia:

*sobbing* ...

Paimon:

Navia!? What's wrong...?

Navia:

Sorry, I... I just...

Navia:

Melus and Silver... They won't ever come back here again...

Navia:

What should I do, Papa?

Paimon:

Huh? What happened to them!?

Navia:

Everyone agreed on the rescue plan, but still... I was the one who initiated it.

Navia:

They were helping evacuate the residents... but they couldn't leave in time...

Navia:

And they were caught in the seawater... *sobs*

Paimon:

Wh—What should we do?

Navia:

I've known them for so long... And I know they weren't afraid... But... But...

Navia:

I could at least hold a funeral for my father, and I know where he rests. But as for Melus and Silver, they're just gone... I just can't...

Navia enters a memory, recalling the scene of her, Melus, and Silver tending to her father's grave...

Melus:

Everything looks so clean after it rains — even the gravestones. I didn't expect that you'd enjoy a glass of red wine in front of Master Callas's grave.

Silver:

I can understand. Besides, the scenery here isn't half bad.

Navia:

See? It's not just me. I always want to bring something when I visit Papa. Perhaps we might even have a picnic. He wouldn't be angry, would he?

Melus:

Ah! How could Master ever be upset with you, Demoiselle?

Melus:

Yet the cemetery is the home of those who have passed, is it not? Everyone ends up here sooner or later, no matter who you are.

Silver:

Buying yourself a plot in advance, are you?

Melus:

Haha, no need yet. But when I do, I hope you'll let me be buried beside Master Callas, Demoiselle.

Navia:

Hey, stop joking around!

Melus:

Oh, I'm quite serious. That way, I'll save us both the trip to see each other whenever you visit your father's grave.

Silver:

That makes sense. In that case, could I be buried on his other side?

Melus:

After all, besides you, Demoiselle, the two of us could certainly be considered Master's closest companions, no?

Silver:

Personally, I believe we fill those shoes just fine.

Navia:

Haha, why are you bringing this up all of a sudden? Seriously... Alright, alright, I'll remember your requests.

Navia:

But I'd really prefer not to talk about this stuff. And what do you mean by "saving me a trip"!? I'd make the journey even if I had to visit you two somewhere else.

Navia:

I had promised to let them rest in peace here... but here I am, breaking that promise.

Navia:

...

Navia:

I'm sorry for letting you see me in a mess like this... I don't usually cry, really.

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't know how to help you feel better, but well, she understands how you feel...

Navia:

I had always thought I could make my wishes come true. But now that I think about it, that never solely relied on me. Many things can only be accomplished with someone else's help.

Navia:

Melus and Silver have helped me so much, but by contrast, I could do nothing for them.

Navia:

...I'm so sorry.

Paimon:

You can spend as much time as you need here, Navia. We'll stay with you.

Traveler:

Yeah, we're here for you.

Navia:

Thank you. Right now... You don't know how much that means.

Navia:

By the way, you can have a look at this. It's a list of victims from the incident that took place here.

Paimon:

Aubenas, Cannes, Bernette, Giverny... Francine, Korina... Desyree, Joinville... Jolienne, Essonnes... as well as Melus and Silver.

Paimon:

So... everyone else is safe? But still...

Navia:

It's okay, I know what you're thinking. And you're right — we lost Melus and Silver, but we were able to save more than we anticipated.

Navia:

...The overall outcome indicates that the cost was worth it.

Traveler:

No one's sacrifice is truly necessary.

Paimon:

Right! Don't think that way, Navia. One person might be saved at the expense of another, sure, but that isn't something we should ever consider a "trade."

Paimon:

Melus and Silver were not the "price" for saving anyone. They're heroes!

Navia:

You're right... Thank you, Paimon.

Navia:

What you said just now was pretty amazing, actually. I'll remember your words.

Paimon:

Oh? Uh, really?

An unexpected figure appears...

???:

Seems you've become more eloquent in the time since we last met.

Paimon:

Uh... The Knave? What are you doing here?

Navia:

Ah, is everything going well on your side?

The Knave:

Yes. My people are carrying out the mission according to your request. All the residents of Poisson have been evacuated, and we are preparing to relocate them to higher ground.

The Knave:

As for the supplies, we have everything taken care of... There is no need to worry.

Navia:

Thank you very much.

Paimon:

Wait, do you two know each other?

The Knave:

We just met recently. Right, Miss Navia?

Navia:

Hmm... Usually, I would call this a coincidental encounter, but that doesn't quite fit this time... Besides, it never even crossed my mind that a Fatui Harbinger would come looking for me.

Navia:

Thanks to The Knave, Spina di Rosula received generous support from the Fatui, which allowed us to complete the rescue and evacuation work so quickly.

The Knave:

Mutual aid is essential to fostering positive developments. We were already in the area, in any case, so it was nothing.

The Knave:

That said, I must say that you're a lot sharper than you let on. I'm sure you understand what I mean.

Navia:

I apologize for all the ways in which I tested you previously. We've never worked with the Fatui before, and it's extremely important for us to know who we're working with.

Navia:

My subordinates have reported that Fatui soldiers have been observing water levels and taking headcounts in various locations. I hear that they've also prepared a large amount of emergency supplies... I'm quite surprised.

The Knave:

This is nothing to brag about, nor do I intend to. It is simply the way of powerful organizations to act forcefully, whether they are doing good or ill — you've witnessed that firsthand, in any case.

The Knave:

As I've told Traveler before, I know of the prophecy, and I intend to prevent the impending disaster.

The Knave:

Lending your organization a hand was a natural first step in accomplishing that. As such, do not be troubled by this token of our sincerity. Perhaps, one day, you'll also be able to help me in the same way.

Navia:

Without your help, there would have been many more casualties... I won't forget your kindness.

The Knave:

Furthermore, I sincerely regret what happened to Melus and Silver. I only wish that my people could have arrived a little earlier to prevent this from happening.

Navia:

Don't say that... You and your subordinates did everything you could.

Navia:

As Paimon said, Melus and Silver didn't choose to sacrifice themselves for any specific person, and they weren't the "price" paid for others' salvation. They... chose to become heroes themselves.

Navia:

I've never liked hearing people put it that way. It's like trying to relieve pain by saying some noble-sounding words. But right now, there's nothing more suitable... they really did become heroes.

The Knave:

You're right. I'm sorry for your loss, Miss Navia.

The Knave:

Water is life to Fontaine's people, and it also spells disaster. It's no wonder that people always say that prophecies represent fate. Fortunately, I've never been one for such opinions.

Navia:

So you're one who will try to change fate, then?

The Knave:

Of course. That is why I'm going to Hotel Bouffes d'ete. I still have some things to take care of, and the children need my attention.

The Knave:

By the way, Traveler, Paimon. One more thing...

Paimon:

Alright, then we'll just... Uhh... Huh? This isn't right... Paimon thought you would ask us to walk with you for a moment so you could tell us something in private!

The Knave:

That is a clever and useful conversation technique, which I do like to use when necessary. But there's no need today — it would not hurt to have Miss Navia listening in.

The Knave:

Traveler, I'm sure you remember that I said we could work together when we had the chance.

The Knave:

You and I both know that there may be issues with the Primordial Sea. Previously, it was the Fortress of Meropide's sluice gate, and this time, it was the water levels in Poisson... These are both signals.

Traveler:

So, the time for jolly cooperation has come?

The Knave:

Indeed. Allow me to share the latest intel I've received from the House of the Hearth's intelligence network with you.

The Knave:

During some recent investigations, a child claimed to have discovered some ruins near Poisson. The ruins date back to ancient times, and seem to be worth investigating in many ways.

The Knave:

Judging by the dating of the ruins, they may be related to the prophecy and the coming crisis. The situation is becoming more urgent, so any pertinent information will prove extremely precious.

The Knave:

My people initially came to prepare for ruin exploration. Unexpectedly, this disaster struck... And at present, we're all busy prioritizing the rescue effort.

Navia:

So that's why the Fatui were all already in Poisson...

The Knave:

I wanted to take the children along, but unfortunately, Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet have all been dispatched to higher ground to assist affected residents.

The Knave:

Lyney told me that outside of the House, the person they trust most is you.

The Knave:

Which is why I want to give you this task.

The Knave:

The House of the Hearth's members see each other as family. But Lyney, Lynette, and Freminet said that they also see you as such, even though you are not from the House.

The Knave:

I'm sure you already understand how earnest they consider their friendship with you to be.

Paimon:

Oh, that somehow makes Paimon feel kinda happy.

The Knave:

The intel I just shared about the ruins could fetch a high price. But since the children consider you family, it's only natural that I freely share it with you.

Paimon:

Got it — so all we gotta do is go to some ruins, right? We can handle that!

Navia:

Excuse me, but may I tag along?

The Knave:

You wish to join, Miss Navia?

Paimon:

But... Are you sure you're up to exploring some ruins? You need to rest!

Navia:

Well, I'm sad, yes, but I can't just go back and plop myself into a chair by the roadside and do nothing.

Navia:

There's no point in being depressed while we still have a disaster on our hands. As my father's successor, I must live up to the hopes he had in me.

Navia:

Besides, I'm also doing this for myself. I need something — a distraction — to keep my mind off Melus and Silver.

Traveler:

(Navia's strong, but she needs company right now. We can be that company if she goes to explore the ruins with us.)

The Knave:

Since you put it that way, I have no objections. What do you say, Traveler?

Traveler:

We'll go to the ruins together.

The Knave:

Alright. The ruins are to the south of Poisson — here's the map.

Paimon:

Okay, the three of us will handle it! C'mon, let's pack up and get going!

The Opera of Noirceur and Blancheur

Whether it be the "Focalors" before Neuvillette, or the "Furina" before you, they are performing the same opera, and the final truth is hidden within it...

Enter Focalors's consciousness

Finish speaking with Focalors's consciousness

Neuvillette:

You...

Uh... Furina?:

Pfft... Hahahaha...

Uh... Furina?:

...Sorry! That shocked expression on your face is just too amusing, I couldn't help myself.

Neuvillette:

You are not Furina. Who are you?

Focalors:

Ah, the sweet sound of bewilderment. Marvelous! A sure sign that my attempt to deceive everyone was a resounding success... But to answer your question: I am Focalors. You know? The god?

Neuvillette:

Focalors... Why did you deceive us?

Focalors:

Oh, that wasn't my goal, of course. Goodness, no! But I had to fool everyone else, too, if I was to stand any chance of deceiving...

Focalors:

...The Heavenly Principles.

Neuvillette:

Deceiving the Heavenly Principles...

Focalors:

It's all because of that pernicious prophecy. Dreadful, wasn't it? Everyone doomed to dissolve, Fontaine condemned to be flooded...

Focalors:

One was not amused, in fact, one was positively bemused, when that problem was thrust upon me by my dearest predecessor — that's the former Hydro Archon, Egeria, for the uninitiated. It hardly gets more disastrous than a preordained national catastrophe, now does it?

Focalors:

She knew full well that the prophecy would surely come to pass.

Focalors:

And as one of The Seven, she also knew full well that... one defies the Heavenly Principles at one's peril.

Focalors:

So yes, as you have no doubt surmised, it was a rather impossible situation that I found myself in.

Focalors:

I spent a terribly long time mulling it over, alone on the ocean floor... and I was almost growing barnacles by the time I finally realized: There was only one possible solution to this confounding conundrum.

Focalors:

I had to outwit the Heavenly Principles. Allow the prophecy to be fulfilled, ostensibly at least, while saving everyone at the same time.

Focalors:

I'm a genius, I know. I can only assume that's why Egeria chose me as her successor.

Focalors:

Although looking back now, it was hardly the inheritance one dreams of... Between the task of saving the nation, the quotidian duties of the Hydro Archon, and not to mention the original sin of creating a new race of humans, I dare say she left me quite a colossal mess to clean up.

Focalors:

*sigh* But one can only play the hand one is dealt. I did not choose this, any more than I chose to be one of her Oceanid familiars.

Neuvillette:

So, you were also once one of the Oceanids, transformed into a human by Egeria's hand?

Focalors:

Yes, I was. I always dreamed of becoming human... And I still do, even now. In my eyes, to be human is to be part of the greatest opera ever known.

Focalors:

After becoming a god, I separated my divinity from my body and spirit, leaving behind only a self that was as naive and bewildered as my past self on her first day as a human being.

Focalors:

The "me" you see before you now is that "divinity," and the human counterpart I left behind, I named "Furina."

Focalors:

She could feel joy, sorrow, and everything in between. She could be as vain and conceited, or as meek and vulnerable as she wished...

Focalors:

Her strengths were of a kind only a human could possess, as were her shortcomings.

Focalors:

But in my eyes, Furina's humanity was what made her perfect. She was perfectly human in every way... the person I always wanted to be.

Focalors:

Anyway — so then I cursed her.

Focalors:

...All part of the plan, of course. The plan to deceive the Heavenly Principles.

Neuvillette:

...

Focalors:

Do you still remember the final scene of the prophecy? The Hydro Archon, alone, weeping on her throne.

Focalors:

In order that the prophecy might appear fulfilled, I invited Furina to be an actress: to play the part of the Hydro Archon in the prophecy.

Focalors:

Under the curse I placed on her, so long as I, Focalors' divinity, continued to exist, she could not die. But nor was she free to live her life in the pursuit of happiness.

Focalors:

Instead, she was forced to take the stage in the opera house, to embrace the role of leading lady, to forever play the part of the god from the prophecy... All to create a deceitful appearance of that prophecy coming to pass.

Focalors:

I suppose now you probably understand why your court is called the "Opera Epiclese."

Neuvillette:

...But Furina is only human, isn't she?

Neuvillette:

Even though she has had a long life, her mind is no stronger than that of any other ordinary human being.

Neuvillette:

I cannot begin to fathom what she has had to endure... It must have been torture for her.

Focalors:

It has indeed. And although she is, in a sense, "me" in human form... I most definitely owe her an apology for it.

Focalors:

It's been five hundred years...

Focalors:

...And all along, she's been playing her part in the most unimaginably long, unbearably lonely, and agonizingly painful opera of all time.

Enter Furina's consciousness

Traveler:

(Where am I? Am I still in the opera house? No. That's not quite right...)

Traveler:

(I came into contact with Furina's... tears? If I remember correctly, tears often contain a being's strongest emotions...)

Traveler:

(With sufficiently strong Hydro sensitivity, I can form an emotional connection, just like I did with that Oceanid at the Fountain of Lucine...)

Traveler:

(Wait, could this be... Furina's inner world?)

Traveler:

(Furina? What is she doing onstage? Wait a moment. That probably isn't Furina. That's likely a reflection of her "inner self.")

Traveler:

(If I can directly speak to that self, I might be able to easily get what I wanted to know.)

Traveler:

(I came here for answers. Either way, this opportunity is not to be missed. Let me try talking to her.)

Talk to Furina

Furina:

Oh? Who permitted you to come onto this stage? Now, I understand your admiration for my august self, but I must ask you to keep to the rules.

Furina:

Alright, alright, it is not my intent to reprimand you. There is no need to state your name. Just be off with you — do not distract me from my performance.

Don't look at me, don't look at me...

Furina:

Hah. Do not jest. Can you not feel it?

Just let the stage lights go off, please, if only for one second...

Furina:

I am Focalors. The eyes of countless Fontainians are upon me. I must, at all times, display the utmost elegance and nobility.

...That way, I can... become "myself" again...

Traveler:

(Something's off. There's no getting through to her — even in her heart of hearts, she's still "playing" the role of the Hydro Archon...)

Traveler:

(What sort of resolve must she have that even her inner self and subconscious would have such an impenetrable defense?)

Traveler:

(I have to find a way...)

Turn off all the spotlights

Watch Furina's performance

Traveler:

(That's all the spotlights turned off. In Furina's heart, they must have symbolized the eyes of the people on her.)

Traveler:

(Speaking of which, I think I just received some sort of signal. Was that her true voice?)

Traveler:

(Hmm...? A ticket? When did that end up here?)

Traveler:

(Either way, looks like the show is about to begin. In that case, show me how you truly feel, Furina.)

Watch the first act

Scene 1, Before a Mirror, Furina

???:

Furina... Furina...?

Furina:

Huh? Who's that? Who's calling me? Where are you?

Person in the Mirror:

Be not nervous. Be not afraid. I am before you.

Furina:

W—W—Wait a moment! You're... mirror-me? How can this be?

Person in the Mirror:

Hmmm. "Mirror-you," huh? You know what? That's not bad. Let's go with that.

Furina:

"Mirror-me"... Wh—What do you wish to say?

Person in the Mirror:

The "prophecy"... Have you heard of it?

Furina:

What prophecy...? Oh, wait. I know — I think. I don't know why, but it's... in my head somehow...

Furina:

"The people will all be dissolved into the waters, and only the Hydro Archon will remain, weeping on her throne. Only then will the sins of the people of Fontaine be washed away."

Person in the Mirror:

Oh, very good. You know it well.

Furina:

What's... going on? I can't seem to remember... anything clearly. The only thing I know for sure is this prophecy... Will it really come to pass?

Person in the Mirror:

Yes, it will, and that is why I've come to you. Disaster will come to Fontaine sooner or later. Things will develop just as the prophecy declared — there is no escaping it.

Furina:

But... Doesn't that mean everyone will die? I'm a Fontainian just like them — will I dissolve too?

Person in the Mirror:

Hehehe... Don't worry. Magical meetings exist in this world precisely to give people a chance to turn things around. It is the reason why you met me today.

Person in the Mirror:

I will tell you how to save everyone, but... you may have to suffer somewhat...

Furina:

O—Oh, so there's still hope after all? Goodness, you frightened me — you spoke so much, and with so much certainty...

Furina:

As for the suffering... Well, I will admit that the first thing that came to mind was, "Why do I have to be the one to suffer?"...

Furina:

But if the prophecy will come true, I'll also die anyway, right? So if I've already met you as my magical meeting in this world...

Furina:

If there were scales, with all the people of Fontaine on one side, and my pain on the other... Is it not obvious where the scales should tilt?

Person in the Mirror:

Hehe... You truly are the perfect human — my "ideal."

Person in the Mirror:

I suppose this would also be the "justice" that belongs to you.

Furina:

Huh...?

Person in the Mirror:

Don't worry, it's nothing. Listen well. Fontaine has just lost its Hydro Archon. I need you to "play" a role — that of the new Archon.

Furina:

Play as... a god?

Person in the Mirror:

That's right. You must begin a never-ending masquerade. You must never let anyone suspect your identity...

Person in the Mirror:

If you can keep it up, then I shall have my way of defying this prophecy... But should your identity be revealed, then all hope will be lost.

Furina:

But... how will I do this? A human assuming the role of a god without being exposed...

Person in the Mirror:

Don't worry. What you must do is not to turn yourself into a real god. You simply need to play the role of a god as humans imagine them to be.

Person in the Mirror:

Being a human yourself, I'm sure you already know what such an entity would be like.

Person in the Mirror:

Remember, your true challenge will not be pursuing "divinity," but contending against "humanity."

Furina:

Um... I'm still not sure I understand, but... I'll try. I'll try to do this.

Furina:

So, how long am I going to have to play this role?

Person in the Mirror:

To accomplish this mission, you will have to stay on the stage for many, many years. You will endure and not grow old until your task ends.

Person in the Mirror:

But I promise you... all will eventually end in a magnificent and dramatic trial, and everyone will be saved.

Furina:

A trial, huh... How exciting. I'll be looking forward to it.

Watch the second act

Scene 2, Accession Speech, Furina

Furina:

(Phew. The Maison Cardinalice has announced my accession, but this is my first time facing the people...)

Furina:

(What should I say... to most appear like a god? To be honest, I still don't know. Perhaps I should first try to act natural...)

Furina:

Summon Courage

Furina:

*cough* Um, ladies and gentlemen, good evening, and welcome to the Opera Epiclese.

Furina:

I'm sure you've all heard about how I have taken on the role of Hydro Archon. Indeed, I am Furina de Fontaine, your new Archon.

Furina:

Appear Earnest

Furina:

In truth, I know little about becoming a nation's new god, but it will be my honor to guide you all.

Furina:

As the god Focalors — the God of Justice — I shall do all within my power to lead you into an age of fairness and justice.

Furina:

Close Politely

Furina:

Once again, thank you all for coming. If you should have any questions or suggestions, please send them to the Maison Cardinalice — the future of Fontaine will require us to work together, after all.

Furina:

(This... should do it.)

Furina:

(I thought I might stammer, but thankfully, I was able to convey my thoughts just fine. Okay, and next...)

Questioning Audience Member:

That's the new Hydro Archon? Is this some kind of joke by the Maison? I would've thought that a being that surpasses humanity would be a bit more... assertive...

Jeering Audience Member:

Hey, did you hear that? She even told us to send her suggestions there at the end...

Frustrated Audience Member:

Shouldn't gods be all-powerful? She's being so modest... What's the difference between her and an ordinary person, then?

Skeptical Audience Member:

If you ask me... Perhaps the succession didn't actually happen. She might just be a Maison-backed puppet!

Furina:

(Wait, what's going on? Why is everyone suspecting me of being a fake? Oh, this is bad. If I get exposed here... there'll be no saving the people from the prophecy...)

Furina:

(Right! "Mirror-me" said that I just need to play the role of a god as humans imagine them to be...)

Furina:

(Calm down, Furina... Think. Think. What do the people want? How would they imagine a god to speak and act?)

Furina:

(Assertive, with a strong sense of presence, one who can dispel all doubt... That is the character I'm fated to play...)

Furina:

...

Furina:

Hahahaha! ...Very good, my people. Only ones such as you are deserving of my rule.

Furina:

Now, I was wondering — if some weak puppet were to one day come onto the stage and claim ownership of this opera house, would the children of Fontaine follow them?

Furina:

...Well! It seems that you would all see right through them. Having passed my test, you are qualified to witness wondrous trials alongside my august self, here in this opera house!

Furina:

You may consider my previous "act" a door gift of sorts. I thought it was a debut that suited the atmosphere.

Furina:

Now then, let us be re-introduced!

Eureka-Moment Audience Member:

Ah, so that was just a performance! How could I have forgotten that we were inside an opera house?

Agreeing Audience Member:

Such personality! It's quite shocking, to be honest, but I suppose it's a better look than before...

Delighted Audience Member:

Such a fascinating and bold deity. How wonderful! Our future may yet be bright after all...

Furina:

(It seems I've turned them around. Best follow this flow and restart my accession speech...)

Furina:

Summon Courage

Furina:

Resolutely, with Conviction

Furina:

My dear people. Whether you acknowledge me or not, whether you trust me or nay, I say to you — keep faith in your ardor for justice!

Furina:

We have heard it said that this nation's sins can no longer be washed away. Well, I say that justice is most fragrant when it blooms amid sin!

Furina:

Appear Earnest

Furina:

(No, this won't work... They'll suspect me again. I must play the role that they want me to play.)

Furina:

Turn up the Drama

Furina:

The scales of justice should not weigh heavy in the hands of its god. On one side, it must carry fairness and justice, and on the other, praise and applause.

Furina:

May law be the prayer on our lips. May judgment be our worship. Let us light the fires, and drink to the future of Fontaine!

Furina:

Close Politely

Furina:

(No, this won't work... They'll suspect me again. I must play the role that they want me to play.)

Furina:

End the Speech Emphatically

Furina:

There is no trouble in this world that justice cannot solve. All that is needed is for you, my people, to believe in it, heart and soul.

Furina:

So long as I, the Archon Focalors, stand within the Opera Epiclese... so long as I stand before the Oratrice... I shall even judge the gods of this world!

Audience:

(Whoops and cheers from the audience)

Watch the third act

Scene 3, Opera House, Furina

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina, here are today's case reports as well as a summary of the follow-up, for your perusal...

Furina:

*sigh* Come now, was I not just at the opera house in person? Leave these kinds of things to Neuvillette.

Furina:

Besides, none of these trials were the one that I'm looking forward to the most...

Unknown Voice:

Um, if I may be so impertinent... What kind of trial are you truly looking forward to?

Furina:

A magnificent, dramatic, and wondrous trial, a trial to end all things... Ah, how could you hope to understand...

Unknown Voice:

That's true... I... fear I lack the ability to grasp your divine thought, Lady Archon...

Furina:

No need for fright, and do not take what I said before too seriously. Go now, to your duties. The trial I await... it will come one day.

Watch the opera performance

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina! I... I don't know what to say... Thank you for agreeing to see me!

Furina:

No need to thank me. Rather, thank your own sense of perseverance instead. Long have you stood in line to meet me, have you not?

Furina:

Hahaha... I'm afraid that's just an inevitable consequence of my divine charm.

Furina:

Alright. Deoteria, is it? How is your son's illness?

Unknown Voice:

Ah, y—you... remembered me, and you knew of my family, too...

Unknown Voice:

He is doing much better now. In fact, he is far more of an ardent believer than I. He was the one who forced me to seek an audience with you, and to bring your words back to him...

Furina:

Haha... Good, very good. If this should happen again in the future, please do not hesitate to come and tell me. Going down to citizens' homes every so often, while not usual practice, should serve as a fine change of pace...

Unknown Voice:

Ah, you're such a gentle and wise god. Thank you, once again, on behalf of my son...

Watch the opera performance

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina, here are the latest hydrological reports. As for the specific parameters you asked us to take note of... I'm afraid things still don't look good.

Furina:

I see. It's as I thought, then. As your god, I did already expect this, but I wanted to see how far your human wisdom would allow you to analyse it.

Furina:

All manner of signs indicate that the prophecy will still come to pass... Forget it, that's not something you need to worry about right now.

Unknown Voice:

Hmm... Well, as I understand it, the Fontaine Research Institute is also trying to find a way to counter the rising water levels...

Furina:

Really? Have they found anything?

Unknown Voice:

I'm afraid that they haven't found any effective solutions thus far.

Furina:

*cough* Ahem, is that so? Well, no wonder. This issue has reached the realm of the gods, after all. Still, their spirit is praiseworthy.

Watch the opera performance

Furina:

(The day's finally over. I haven't had a moment to breathe this whole time...)

Furina:

(But it's good to see that everything's getting "on track." There are no longer any voices of suspicion.)

Furina:

(Maybe this is fine. I just need to keep going, and everyone will be saved...)

Furina:

(Phew... Alright, Furina, don't think too hard about this. You need rest — tomorrow's a new day.)

Scene 4, Opera House, Furina

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina, here are the new trial reports for the latest cases, as well as a summary of the follow-up...

Furina:

Ugh, there'll be no need for that. I've seen them already. There's no need to go back over scenes I've witnessed in person before!

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina! I've waited for so, so long, for this chance to see you in this manner...

Furina:

Indeed, my dear, loyal citizen, this joyous moment is an honor for us both!

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina. We're detecting significant hydrological anomalies near Poisson...

Furina:

Understood. Keep monitoring. Keep me informed should anything come up at the Institute.

Furina:

(Phew... I don't think I let anything slip today. I must show the people that there is nothing to worry about...)

Furina:

(I just... don't know when these days will end...)

Furina:

(I feel utterly exhausted. Best to rest early today, too.)

Scene 5, Opera House, Furina

Scene 6, Opera House, Furina

Scene 182375, Opera House, Furina

Unknown Voice:

Lady Furina! It's... It's like a dream, being able to speak with you up close like this...

Unknown Voice:

I've heard that the first member of our family who was honored to receive an audience with you was Madame Deoteria, almost twenty generations ago!

Furina:

Hahaha... And what a fine family yours is, indeed! It brings me great joy to meet such a faithful believer, a descendant of a line most ardent.

Unknown Voice:

Ehehe... Surely you exaggerate, Lady Furina...

Unknown Voice:

Um... My Lady?

Furina:

Hmm? What is it, good citizen...

Unknown Voice:

Are... are you crying?

Furina:

Eh... Huh? Hahaha, really now? I didn't even notice.

Furina:

*sigh* This must be the overflow of Hydro from my person! Well, can't quite help being the god whose dominion is the waters, can I?

Unknown Voice:

Ah, no wonder, no wonder... A manifestation of your power, then... O, Archon, I am honored to have witnessed it. Honored indeed...

Watch the final act of the opera

Furina:

...

Furina:

(So interminable... so lonely... Just how much longer...)

Furina:

(Hundreds of years must have passed by now. Perhaps this show must go on for hundreds more...)

Furina:

(I never imagined that it would hurt so much...)

Furina:

(Have I... reached my limit? No, perhaps I reached it long ago. Today, I didn't even notice my own tears.)

Furina:

(I want to tell someone, anyone, about this... But would that not destroy all I've done so far?)

Furina:

(I've conducted so many investigations across the centuries, but there's not even a sliver of hope that we might break the prophecy...)

Furina:

(All I can do is keep heart. I must maintain this act. It is the only way to save Fontaine. Please, "Mirror-me." You have to succeed...)

Scene 182376, Opera House, Furina, and...

Traveler:

Furina... You don't have to shoulder this burden alone.

Traveler:

Although I don't know what you might be keeping from everyone... Your people are more than willing to share your burden with you.

Traveler:

(That's... my voice? Is this scene... from when we were within that Giant Magic Box?)

Traveler:

(This is great... I didn't think that this scene would replay in her inner world. Surely, I'll find out what she wanted to tell me this time.)

Furina:

Share my burden...

Furina:

That's impossible. It was fated, right from the start, that this would be my duty alone.

Traveler:

But even if your burden doesn't need to be shared... you can still choose to confide in someone.

Traveler:

Just share it with me. I'm what you'd call a "witness."

Furina:

A witness... Ah, yes. I've heard that you came to Teyvat from beyond the stars, yes? In other words, you never belonged here...

Furina:

And if Teyvat is, in its entirety, a show on a stage, then you're just a "spectator," aren't you?

Furina:

If that's the case...

Furina:

(He's right. I could confide in him, couldn't I?)

Furina:

(But... If things don't play out as expected, the people of Fontaine will be the ones to pay the price...!)

Furina:

(No, Furina. You shouldn't be selfish...)

Furina:

(...)

Furina:

(But what if... what if it's really alright?)

Furina:

(Furina, you've worked so hard for so, so long. Surely it would be okay to put yourself first for once... just this once?)

Furina:

(Is it such an outrageous thing to do, anyway? To find someone in whom you can confide your frustrations and sorrows? Surely, it could not hurt?)

Furina:

(If you let this opportunity slip through your fingers, it might never come by again.)

Furina:

(Think about it long and hard...)

Furina:

...

Traveler:

...

Furina:

No, I have nothing to say. I am Furina, the Archon of Fontaine! Everything will surely get better!

Furina:

All you need to do, dear spectator, is to witness my performance until the curtains fall.

Traveler:

...

Traveler:

...Fine.

Finish speaking with Focalors's consciousness

Neuvillette:

So even Furina doesn't know the truth? You've never once let her in on the full plan?

Focalors:

Yes. It had to be done. To deceive the Heavenly Principles, you must first deceive yourself.

Focalors:

She did very well. If she had let her resolve falter even once in these five centuries, Fontaine would have been doomed to the most tragic fate.

Focalors:

It seems that "trusting humanity" was the right decision, after all.

Neuvillette:

I believe that I understand how your deception works... but that is only half the truth, is it not?

Neuvillette:

How would you build on this foundation to save the people of Fontaine? That is the most important thing.

Focalors:

Ah, good, good. Of course the Iudex of Fontaine has pinpointed the crux of the issue.

Focalors:

I'm sure you've long sensed that the Oratrice is no simple machine, yes?

Neuvillette:

I've always suspected that it had its own consciousness, and Lyney did mention that he heard a "human voice" within the core chamber...

Neuvillette:

It now seems that that "person" was you, hidden within the machine all along. Am I right?

Focalors:

And then I "became one" with the Oratrice, taking Fontaine's Gnosis with me... Yes, it would seem so, wouldn't it?

Focalors:

Alas, your understanding of this device still lacks sufficient depth.

Focalors:

In truth, it is no enactor of justice... It is, in fact, a device created to kill the God of Justice.

Neuvillette:

...I beg your pardon?

Focalors:

Oh, you have it — and to be more precise, not only will the Oratrice take down the God of Justice, it will also take down the divine throne upon which she has been placed.

Focalors:

Hehe, I mean, did you think I would be the sort to enjoy peaceful repose while Furina suffered?

Focalors:

My work over these last five hundred years... has been to constantly accumulate Indemnitium within the Oratrice.

Focalors:

But really, some have already discovered that only a small fraction of the energy generated by the device was ever used to provide power to Fontaine...

Focalors:

The vast majority has been — had to be — accumulated... to enact this death sentence.

Neuvillette:

It was all a part of your plan, then — both the trial and the sentence...

Focalors:

Indeed. This power, accrued over five centuries, could have sustained Fontainians for millennia had it only been used for that purpose. Almost all of it has now been stored within the Oratrice...

Focalors:

But only power of this magnitude could hope to destroy the Hydro Archon's Divine Throne, shaking the rules established by Celestia and breaking through the institution that is The Seven.

Neuvillette:

So, the Oratrice's call for death was for neither Furina nor Focalors, but for the Hydro Archon...

Neuvillette:

The destruction of that divine throne... If I do not misunderstand your intent, you must be...

Focalors:

Returning what's rightfully yours to you, of course!

Focalors:

In other words, this was all done to return the authority of the Hydro Archon to the Hydro Dragon of this planet.

Neuvillette:

But...

Focalors:

What? Getting sad again, are we?

Focalors:

The authority of the ancient dragons shall soon be yours once more, O Hydro Dragon Sovereign, and this is the face you make? Hehe...

Neuvillette:

All you've done throughout the years... is just so you can sacrifice yourself at the very end?

Focalors:

I've never quite seen it that way, you know. Even now, I'm quite pleased at how well my deception worked, hehe.

Neuvillette:

...

Focalors:

"Hydro Dragon, Hydro Dragon, don't cry."

Focalors:

I must say, had it been within my rights, I would have loved to judge the Heavenly Principles themselves. Were they not guilty of essentially the same crime?

Focalors:

Egeria stole the power of the Primordial Sea, and the Heavenly Principles stole the power you ancient dragons possessed.

Focalors:

I, for my part, am the God of Justice. And is it not just that your original powers should be returned to you?

Focalors:

Speaking of justice, I have always believed that justice lies in the process of pursuing human existence itself.

Focalors:

So if the theft of the Primordial Sea's might was Fontaine's "original sin"...

Focalors:

Then, leaving matters of procedural right and wrong aside, the descent of the Fontainians as humans and their right to exist in this world... would be Fontaine's "original justice."

Focalors:

In other words, "existence" was Egeria's justice... and to me, justice is the "continuation" of that existence.

Focalors:

Defying the prophecy and ensuring that Fontaine's people shall live on — that should be the justice enthroned over all others.

Focalors:

At this point, we — whether it be myself, or all other Fontainians — have shouldered the burden of this "sin" for far too long.

Focalors:

Iudex Neuvillette, the highest judge in our land... When you regain your full power as an elemental sovereign, what verdict shall you pass upon us?

Neuvillette:

So, when I was invited to the Court of Fontaine to serve as Iudex... I see now that that was your idea, too.

Neuvillette:

At last, I now understand the true purpose behind this position.

Neuvillette:

In the beginning, I was uninterested in human existence, but these five centuries of living alongside them have gradually brought about mutual understanding between us, and I have even attempted to feel as they feel...

Neuvillette:

You are a devious one, Focalors.

Neuvillette:

Things being as they are... Surely you know that I could never declare them to be "guilty."

Neuvillette's Final Verdict

movie

The energy above Focalors emits a powerful light and spins ever faster. Taking center-stage, Focalors bids Neuvillette farewell. Dancing and humming lightly, she hops and spins. In a separate space, you watch from beneath the stage as Furina dances that very same dance. At the end, she gives a perfect bow as the curtain falls. The energy ceases to spin and comes slicing down. A blast of Hydro Energy bursts forth, gathering within Neuvillette's body. Furina sits in her chair, her eyes lifeless. A little light floats toward her, and her eyes reflect its radiance — the radiance of Focalors's final words. Outside, the skies outside the opera house pour rain more fiercely than ever before. Neuvillette floats alone in the skies, surveying around him. As the Iudex, he declares the sins of all Fontainians forgiven.

Neuvillette's Decision

Neuvillette:

...

Navia:

What just happened? Has the death sentence been carried out?

Lyney:

Was that bright light some sort of misdirection? I have a feeling that something huge just happened.

Lynette:

But since we're all still alive and haven't been dissolved, I assume whatever happened was good for us.

Neuvillette:

It's time to end this. We must mete out punishment to that beast.

Paimon:

But didn't you say just a moment ago that it can't be defeated?

Neuvillette:

I have gained the strength sufficient to deal with it. Through... certain means, I now have the ability to separate the power of the Primordial Sea from that creature.

Neuvillette:

We should seize the opportunity to pursue our quarry.

Neuvillette:

Traveler, now that the Oratrice can no longer function, I require an "executor" to help me mete out justice.

Traveler:

You... You mean me?

Neuvillette:

The root of the calamities befalling Fontaine, the beast that enacts the prophecy... Its name is the All-Devouring Narwhal.

Neuvillette:

...Come with me, Traveler. The hour of execution has come.

Enter the Primordial Sea with Neuvillette

Defeat the "All-Devouring Narwhal"

movie

You engage in a fierce battle against the All-Devouring Narwhal. At the last, you leap out from the belly of the beast, and Neuvillette lands beside you, gathering his might to finish the creature off. At this time, another strange energy shrouds the creature and shrinks it until it falls into the palm of a mysterious woman's hand. She grabs the shrunken Narwhal in one hand and the unconscious Childe by the scruff in another. Opening a teleporter, she throws them both into it. After that, she turns around to face you, as if nothing had happened.

Meet Skirk

Talk to Skirk

???:

Thanks for helping with the "cleanup." It should've been my job, but... Oh well.

???:

It was just supposed to be a short private training session for me... I didn't think that my disciple and my master's pet would start brawling in the meantime.

???:

Well, actually, I had a feeling that it would happen at some point, but they bumped into one another earlier than I'd thought. What a blunder... I suppose I'll have to swing my sword three million times as penance.

Neuvillette:

That power... Who are you, exactly?

Paimon:

Uh, Paimon has an idea... From what she said earlier, she must be Childe's master... Skirk, right?

Paimon:

It's just that he gave us the impression that she was a less... talkative person.

Skirk:

I simply did not have anything to say to the weak. But you, on the other hand, managed to defeat the All-Devouring Narwhal without using "power from beyond this world"...

Skirk:

So you may speak to me as equals.

Skirk:

I have to agree. It's a strange use of a planet's primordial waters just to raise an All-Devouring Narwhal.

Skirk:

That kind of power is wasted on it. It's not cooperative, it eats too much... and I have more important things to do with my time than pet-sitting. The only thing that creature has going for it is its looks.

Skirk:

All in all, it fails as a pet.

Paimon:

...Uh, Miss Skirk, I think you might have missed the point.

Skirk:

The point being?

Paimon:

Well, being that this "pet" almost destroyed an entire nation...

Paimon:

So, what sort of person is your master — well, Childe's master's master? ...Is that right?

Skirk:

Ah, right, so you don't know him... Sorry, I assumed you did.

Skirk:

His name is Surtalogi.

Traveler:

Who?

Paimon:

Huh?

Neuvillette:

I am unfamiliar with that name.

Skirk:

Huh. So Master is insufficiently famous. Hmm, how should I describe him, then... Have you heard of the name... "The Foul"?

Neuvillette:

"The Foul"...

Skirk:

Still nothing? Well, how about "The Visionary," Vedrfolnir then? Or "Gold," Rhinedottir?

Paimon:

Ooh, that one we've heard! Rhinedottir's part of the Hexenzirkel — she's Albedo's mom, right?

Skirk:

Ah, so you do know that name. To be honest, I also heard all of those names and titles from my Master. I don't actually know them either.

Skirk:

But I suppose you understand now, yes? My Master is likely a similar sort to Rhinedottir — they are both "pursuing some form of perfection."

Paimon:

Wait. Didn't you also mention a... "Visionary" person? Paimon didn't quite catch their name...

Skirk:

Actually, never mind that. I believe it expedient to inform you...

Skirk:

That the All-Devouring Narwhal used up nearly all its strength fighting you.

Skirk:

Such roiling Hydro energies will prove difficult for the planet's deep seas to digest.

Skirk:

As such, the Fontaine back on the surface has most likely been thrown into chaos.

Skirk:

In other words, the prophecy that you have been fretting over should now be in full swing.

Paimon:

What!?

Traveler:

(It is natural, after all. The prophecy will surely come true. We knew this... and accepted it.)

Traveler:

(However...)

Neuvillette:

Not to worry. Focalors has... already managed to deceive the Heavenly Principles.

Fontaine's End

movie

Furina weeps alone on her throne as the waters rise, reaching her feet. The city of Fontaine seems to have been flooded, and all is silent. Just then, someone breaks through the water's surface and starts gasping for air. Navia rows over in a boat, rescuing him. In the distance, Wriothesley's Wingalet bursts from the water, and he orders all hands to begin rescue operations. Beneath the water, Freminet, Lynette, and Lyney rescue residents. At this time, people discover that the water is starting to slowly recede, and they celebrate that they have not been dissolved and that the prophecy is false. Furina walks out of the opera house, and is astonished to see the survivors. The dark clouds part and the sunlight pours down — it is as if the calamity never happened at all.

Return to Fontaine

Finale

The calamity facing Fontaine has finally come to an end. No matter what happens, the presses won't stop churning news out. In other words, the people will learn about the truth as fast as The Steambird's staffers can write it.

Talk to Charlotte

Paimon:

"The Soil Renewed: The Spina Di Rosula Talks Post-Disaster Rebuilding." I recently visited Poisson to meet with Miss Navia, spokesperson of the Spina di Rosula, and we spoke about Poisson's present and future.

Paimon:

"Old soil can still give birth to new bloom," Miss Navia stated. "Hope is like seeing a small cookie when you're starving late at night — you just need a little of it."

Paimon:

"Skyship Wingalet — Boon or Bane of the Fontaine Research Institute?"

Paimon:

The various disputes that have arisen on account of Mr. Edwin have suddenly become a shield over the Institute, with Jurieu turning out to be a once-overlooked hidden gem.

Paimon:

People always call the first researcher mad, but few know what to call the second. And should that latter person achieve a miracle, they would find it all the harder to find a word with which to classify him and his team...

Paimon:

Wow, Paimon barely recognizes the people in the reports. Are those really Jurieu and Navia? They sound like real big shots...

Charlotte:

What do you think? Pretty enthralling, eh? The Steambird's idea was pretty simple. With the disaster just having passed, we would print a free edition packed to the margins with good news to calm people down.

Charlotte:

The value for these big scoops lies in their inevitable follow-ups. We'll publish further reports and go into the stories behind those people.

Charlotte:

Edwin's assistant, Jurieu, created a true flying ship, while Navia is leading people in the reconstruction of their home... I'm sure that these stories could draw even your well-traveled eye.

Traveler:

The articles do make me curious about how things will play out...

Paimon:

Paimon's curious too... Wait a minute. Didn't we watch everything happen from start to finish? What's there to be curious about?

Charlotte:

And that's exactly why I'd like you to come conduct interviews with me. You're the best incubators of news, if you haven't noticed — and also, with you around, I'm sure I'll get to see that Duke.

Paimon:

Are you sure? Hasn't he turned you down several times already?

Charlotte:

Oh, this time will be different. Come on! Let's head to Poisson first, and then make a trip to the Fortress. There are some things you'll only know when you get there.

Go to Poisson

Talk to Navia

Charlotte:

Navia!

Navia:

Oh, it's you! What brings you all here?

Paimon:

Hey! We're just having a look around!

Charlotte:

I'm here to update myself on how things are going here. Hmm? Oh, the Fatui are here, too!

Navia:

Ah, let me introduce you. This is Mr. Gerunt Snezhevich. He represented The Knave in sending us a large amount of supplies, and is helping with our work.

Navia:

Our residents are hard at work as well. Thanks to everyone, work is progressing nicely. We've lost a lot of people, but we're moving forward — that will have to be enough.

Gerunt Snezhevich:

Hello, Miss Charlotte. I'm a big fan of yours... I especially liked that article you wrote last year about Fontaine's stray cats.

Gerunt Snezhevich:

But if you don't mind, could you not emphasize our role too much in your report? It's not charity we're doing here. We just happened to share the same interests as the Spina.

Charlotte:

I get where you're coming from. I'll keep it as simple as possible... Or would you be willing to feature as "friendly neighbors"?

Gerunt Snezhevich:

That would be fine, thanks.

Navia:

Oh, you're back, too! How are things?

Clorinde:

We've finished laying down the construction materials. It'll be another hour before the workers are able to go over there.

Paimon:

Huh? You're here too, Clorinde?

Navia:

Well, her reputation's greatly risen after that whole duel business with Miss Furina, so she's here in Poisson to wait out the heat... Alright, alright, she really came here to help me out.

Clorinde:

There's too much to consider in the reconstruction of Poisson. The Spina has need of more decision-makers... and well, I do already happen to be connected to Mr. Callas.

Charlotte:

Wait just a moment! Do you mind me asking a few questions? You know, about how you felt before the duel, about what it was like facing down a god... There's lots of exciting material there, I'd bet!

Clorinde:

Forget it. I'm sure you can find a better theme than that, Miss Charlotte.

Charlotte:

Ugh, I see you're the same as always... Couldn't you do me a favor, for Navia's sake?

Navia:

Well, if we're talking about doing things for my sake, you might as well just take a few more photos of me — or of Traveler! It's better than wasting time persuading Clorinde, at any rate.

Charlotte:

Of course I will — I'm not gonna let him off that easy. Alright! Then everyone who wants to be in the photo gather up... and smile!

Paimon:

How did it go? Was it a good shot? Did Paimon look cute in it?

Charlotte:

Not bad. Your addition really helped the composition of the picture... Alright, hang on a moment, let me snap a few more shots...

Charlotte takes more pictures of Poisson to the clicking of shutters, and also does some rapid-fire resident interviews...

Charlotte:

Alright, that should do it. I'll be back here later, anyway, so let's call it a day.

Clorinde:

You're very quick.

Charlotte:

Speed is of the essence when it comes to the news, and freshness is the key!

Charlotte:

Also, not to brag, but I'm pretty good at building connections. Who knows, I might eventually get that interview with you after all, Miss Clorinde.

Navia:

Wow, you really do have that never-say-die spirit. I'm impressed.

Clorinde:

I'll hazard a guess that this is how you got that interview at the Fortress of Meropide.

Traveler:

You already knew she was going?

Charlotte:

Whoa, you're well-informed. Let me make a guess, too. I asked Sigewinne, who told Monsieur Neuvillette, and he told you, right?

Gerunt Snezhevich:

That's a... very complete information chain.

Clorinde:

In truth, all Monsieur Neuvillette asked me was "When did the Fortress become so friendly towards the media?"

Clorinde:

I told him that it was best not to speak too soon — there's no guarantee that Wriothesley will make a personal appearance.

Charlotte:

You're right. I've gotta treasure every moment I have with them — in which case, I'll be making a move first!

Navia:

Stay safe, now! And tell me if you hear anything interesting — I'll treat you to afternoon tea in exchange!

Go to the Fortress of Meropide

Talk to Wriothesley

Paimon:

Wow, guess we're here again, huh? There's a real nostalgic feeling to this place.

Wriothesley:

Looks like you've been missing us.

Paimon:

Duke! Did you come all the way to the entrance to greet us?

Wriothesley:

Of course. I'm here to welcome you and our dear Miss Charlotte, whom our good Head Nurse recommended to me.

Charlotte:

It's an honor to finally meet the much rumored Duke. Thank you for consenting to my visit to the Fortress, sir.

Wriothesley:

No need to thank me — but that said, I shouldn't be the focus of your interview. I trust you recall our agreement?

Charlotte:

Of course, of course!

Wriothesley:

Alright then, this way.

Jurieu:

...

Lourvine:

...

Charlotte:

Hmm? Hey, no need to be so nervous. I've already taken all the photos we need.

Lourvine:

Um... Miss Charlotte... Do these pictures really need to be published on the cover of The Steambird?

Wriothesley:

It would seem that Miss Lourvine doesn't want her face to appear beside that of Mr. Jurieu, hmm?

Jurieu:

Sir, please don't say things like that!

Wriothesley:

Ah, but it looks like dear Mr. Jurieu denies it. Might this interview be very important to you, then?

Jurieu:

No! I—I just... This is my first time being interviewed, and I'm very thankful to The Steambird for...

Charlotte:

Haha, now, I might not look it, but I did actually meet Mr. Edwin once, and I'll be honest, I enjoyed chatting with you more — you've definitely got more of that "genius" vibe going on!

Charlotte:

The boat that brought about a miracle, the ark that saved the people! Why, you recreated a myth back there, like an emissary of legend!

Charlotte:

...Still, if I might ask, where's that flying ship now?

Paimon:

Heh, looks like Charlotte's trying to get herself another exclusive scoop...

Wriothesley:

I have to apologize, but that ship is presently in the bowels of our factory. I'm afraid it won't be easy for you to get a shot of it.

Charlotte:

Really? Then in that case, could I have an interview with you to make up for that loss?

Traveler:

(She really does know how to squeeze opportunities for all they're worth...)

Wriothesley:

You already know my answer, I'm afraid. Best you interview our Head Nurse instead — or perhaps you'd like to take another photo of this couple of researchers?

Lourvine:

Did you really have to use the word "couple"!?

Charlotte:

Well, then, two solo photos will do!

Jurieu:

Is my hair messed up? Please, someone help me have a look...

Paimon:

Things sure are getting pretty lively here... Uh, we've seen this kind of thing before...

Sigewinne:

Ooh, seems like everyone's here! Would any of you like to try this new drink I came up with...

Wriothesley:

Ah, Sigewinne...

Lourvine:

Ah, uh — Hey, Miss Charlotte! Why don't you, ah, take some pretty photos of our Head Nurse?

Charlotte:

Hmm? Uh, sure! C'mon, Miss Sigewinne, over this way. Let's find a brighter spot...

Sigewinne:

Huh? Oh, sure... Do I have to smile?

Paimon:

So, how've things been at the Fortress?

Wriothesley:

Same old same old, as you can see. Fontaine's undergone some changes, but this place's still more or less the same.

Jurieu:

Other than that flying ship. It got a tad too much attention, I think...

Wriothesley:

That's why I decided to let the interview go through. We should direct more public opinions toward the behind-the-scenes heroes — am I right, Mr. Jurieu? Miss Lourvine?

Lourvine:

You're too kind, sir. I believe that you, too, should have your day in the sun — not that you would want that, which is a pity.

Wriothesley:

Hahaha, I'll just leave the spotlight to you two.

You walk with Wriothesley for a while and share news from above ground with him...

Wriothesley:

I see. Lots of things happened that day, huh? Anyway, regarding that Harbinger, I'm not sure you remember, but his three young followers are still waiting for his return.

Paimon:

He sure did win them over, huh...

Wriothesley:

I'll tell them that there's good news and bad news — the good being that their boss seems fine, and the bad being that they must face extended sentences for abetting his escape.

Paimon:

Oh, actually, what about you? Are things gonna change for you, too?

Wriothesley:

What change can there be? The Fortress will keep chugging along, and so will my duties.

Wriothesley:

As to what Miss Furina's departure will mean for the nation, and if our laws and governance will be transformed... We'll leave those to the folks in the overworld.

Charlotte:

Hey, everyone. The photoshoot's done!

Wriothesley:

Good. In that case, let's call it a day here.

Charlotte:

Thanks for your cooperation. C'mon, Traveler, let's go. Till next time, everyone!

Wriothesley:

There'll be a next time?

Charlotte:

Maybe! Who knows? I might write a story about the underwater factory next time. Until then!

Head to Romaritime Harbor

Charlotte:

Alright. Last stop, the docks!

Talk to Lyney and the others

Paimon:

Paimon sees them! They really are here. How did you know?

Charlotte:

Navia mentioned that she stayed in touch with Lyney and the others after working together. Apparently, they've been at the docks distributing these strange pockets the whole time since.

Lyney:

Traveler, Paimon — ah, and Miss Charlotte, too.

Lynette:

Would you like a Magic Pocket?

Charlotte:

What sort of gadget is it?

Lynette:

It's a wondrous bag that can be used to carry many things. The water level has returned to normal, but if you see any of your things floating around, you can use this to carry them — or you could trick a friend into doing it for you.

Charlotte:

Trick a friend? Huh, I wonder which of my friends would fall for that...?

Lynette:

You could just make a friend like Freminet here. Isn't that right, Freminet?

Freminet:

Is this what you meant by "I'll help you make some more friends"...

Charlotte:

To be honest, that sounds pretty sweet! Could I have your contact, please?

Freminet:

Uhh... Oh, um... sure. Please, write down my address.

Paimon:

Lynette sure is working hard to help Freminet socialize...

Lynette:

He was the one who proposed doing this — he even wants to assist in our magic shows.

Traveler:

Sounds like that would suit him.

Lyney:

Yes, I was planning to first introduce Pers as an assistant, and later Freminet himself. In the future, I think we can leave underwater escape magic to him, too.

Lynette:

That said, would anyone want to see a diver escape underwater?

Lyney:

Oh, it'll work out. Every journey begins with a first step — he'll become a part of our show eventually.

Freminet:

Lynette, could you come over? Miss Charlotte says she wants to take a picture of us...

Lynette:

Got it.

Lyney:

My, that Charlotte is rather perceptive. She got rid of everyone the moment she realized I had something to say to you... So. How've things been, Traveler?

Traveler:

I'm doing alright.

Lyney:

"Father" says that you did a great deal during the latest events. She's very grateful for your contributions to Fontaine.

Paimon:

Aw, that's alright. We were more than happy to help... So, what's she doing now?

Lyney:

Oh, I guess you haven't heard. Well...

Lyney:

After Lady Furina left, "Father" and Monsieur Neuvillette opened negotiations, during which he gave Fontaine's Gnosis to her as a "diplomatic gift."

Paimon:

A "diplomatic gift"? A Gnosis?

Lyney:

Yes. I was quite surprised at first, myself. But when I thought it over, there were actually a number of things going for it...

Lyney:

It could have been done as an apology for the incident with Lord Childe, or as thanks for his help in tying the All-Devouring Narwhal down...

Lyney:

Furthermore, "Father" did also lend significant aid to Fontaine and Poisson.

Paimon:

Well, that's true, but this is a Gnosis we're talking about. Doesn't this seem a bit... irresponsible?

Lyney:

I would agree, but I've also heard that... It seems that Monsieur Neuvillette has had a significant change of heart regarding the matter.

Paimon:

Huh? So there's some reason for this that only Neuvillette knows about?

Lyney:

I suspect you'll have to ask him about that yourself. Ah, yes, speaking of which, I did see him strolling around the entrance to the Fortress of Meropide a while back.

Paimon:

Huh. Isn't he real busy and stuff? Paimon didn't think he'd have the time for that.

Paimon:

But back to the topic, the Gnosis was given to The Knave, right? What about Childe?

Lyney:

They say that he's returned to Snezhnaya to recover from his wounds. I hear that the recent disaster really did a number on his health.

Traveler:

Well, I guess I can now call him one of my "war buddies."

Paimon:

That's true. When you think about it, we've had loads of run-ins with the Fatui. To think we'd be allied with them this time...

???:

So shocked by such a simple switching of sides?

Paimon:

Waah! Who—!?

Lyney:

"Father"!

The Knave:

Well, well, what do you know? Come to the docks to see how my children are doing, and meet the Traveler by chance. Please do not pay my accomplishments in Fontaine too much mind. I would have done them regardless.

Paimon:

Are you going to... take the Gnosis back to Snezhnaya?

The Knave:

That is our duty as Harbingers, yes.

The Knave:

Don't be too preoccupied with "sides." The goal of the Fatui concerns not a single place or person, but the entire world. With such a grand goal in mind, it is inevitable that we must wear many masks.

The Knave:

Switching my masks is something I've always done.

Traveler:

Will you keep to your position?

The Knave:

That depends on many things, no one truly knows what the future holds. What good is honesty if you can't rely on it forever?

The Knave:

As for you, I very much look forward to our next collaboration. Good things cannot be achieved alone, and you've proved yourselves to be great partners.

Traveler:

Actually, I just remembered something... Please help us deliver this.

The Knave:

A Vision? ... Ha, alright. I'll remember to return it. Thank you for keeping it safe for him this entire time.

Charlotte:

And that's a wrap for me! ...Huh!? You... You're...

The Knave:

Greetings, Miss Journalist.

Charlotte:

Ah, um... Hello. If I'm not mistaken, there are diplomatic channels I'll need to report to to take a photo of you...

The Knave:

That is correct, so forgive me, but I will not be able to serve as a subject in your article. However, feel free to write as much as you'd like about our dear magicians — and our upcoming rookie talent.

Charlotte:

I—I will!

The Knave:

The sea breeze is quite pleasant. I shall continue my walk while the weather remains so agreeable. Farewell.

Lyney:

Farewell, "Father."

Charlotte:

...She has such an intimidating presence... I didn't even dare to take a picture... Thankfully, I've already wrapped up all of my prescheduled interviews. Thank you all — this'll be more than enough for me to write about, I'm sure.

Lyney:

Don't be too nervous. Why don't you take a Magic Pocket before you go? Here, Traveler, Paimon, you take one too.

Paimon:

To move things about?

Lyney:

That's right. Funny — I was giving out Magic Pockets when we first met, too, and what do you know? I'm doing the exact same thing right now. So many things have happened, but the Pockets are still the Pockets.

Lyney:

I guess this must be "life." We will all follow our own paths, and serendipity will lead you to your fated friends.

Lyney:

Alright then. We'll be handing out pockets in some other districts later, so we'll get going now. Have a good day, you two!

Look for Neuvillette

Talk to Neuvillette

Paimon:

So you really are here, Neuvillette! Paimon didn't think you were going to have free time this hour of the day.

Neuvillette:

"Really"? Ah, I suppose you must have met Mr. Lyney. He took the time to greet me earlier when he passed this way.

Neuvillette:

In any case, you came at a good time. I was just considering reaching out to you to set up a meeting, so I may explain some things that I haven't had the time to before.

Paimon:

Aww, Paimon's glad that you remembered! Thank you for keeping us on your mind, what with you being busy and all.

Paimon:

Alright, let's have it, then. How was Fontaine actually saved? That whole business is still quite the mystery to us.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

...Hmm. It is strange, how words can often leave a bitter taste in the mouth when it finally comes time to say them out loud.

Neuvillette sighs softly, before telling you the truth concerning what he saw that day...

"Focalors deceived the Heavenly Principles, and used Furina's endless performance to save Fontaine."

Paimon:

Wow... So that's what happened?

Traveler:

I only saw Furina's part, myself.

Paimon:

Focalors destroyed the divine throne of the Hydro Archon and restored your power to you, transforming you into a fully-fledged elemental dragon sovereign...

Paimon:

But Paimon still doesn't quite get what you did to save the Fontainians from dissolving.

Neuvillette:

For me, the "authority of the ancient dragons" refers to absolute control over the Hydro element.

Neuvillette:

Fontainians were "incomplete humans" born of Egeria's use of the power of the Primordial Sea, with constitutions similar to that of mimics...

Neuvillette:

But so long as those primordial energies remain within them, I could use the ancient dragons' authority to grant them true "blood," after the fashion in which life was first brought into being on this planet.

Neuvillette:

In other words, when I gave my verdict, Fontainians became "true humans," and thus would naturally no longer be dissolved by water from the Primordial Sea.

Paimon:

Focalors must have counted on you to make that decision as well... Your verdict was the key to making the prophecy appear to have come true while saving everyone.

Paimon:

Yeah, and in a manner of speaking, Focalors finally managed to fulfill the original Hydro Archon's wish to turn Oceanids into real people, too.

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

It seems, from your expressions, that you still have more things you wish to ask.

Neuvillette:

Ask away. I will tell you the truth as I know it.

Neuvillette:

I have investigated his case along many avenues, and I have learned that he once fell into an unknown chasm when he was young. There, by chance, he awakened the All-Devouring Narwhal.

Neuvillette:

But, whether it be by sentiment or reason, that should not have been enough to consider him the root cause of the disaster. At most, he would have had tangential liability.

Neuvillette:

As for the judgment passed by the Oratrice during the trial...

Neuvillette:

Whether it was due to that liability by association, or Focalors deliberately using him to buy time for us on the assumption that he would be able to hold the creature off... I cannot say.

Paimon:

Guess Focalors had Fontainians in mind the whole time. In the end, it was thanks to her that they finally became real humans...

Paimon:

Uh, hang on a second! Paimon's suddenly got another question.

Paimon:

Back when Fontainians hadn't yet become real humans, were the children they had also transformed Oceanids?

Neuvillette:

Life has always flowed like water. Do you recall how Fontainians would often come to the Fountain of Lucine to pray for children?

Paimon:

Yeah. Lynette said that the Fountain is where all the waters in Fontaine converge...

Neuvillette:

In truth, even those couples did not know that such prayers were no mere custom, but instead a form of ritual...

Neuvillette:

Those Oceanids who were blessed within the spring water would later descend as new humans in the coming months.

Paimon:

Uh... Paimon... sorta gets it now? Either way, seems like this ritual won't be of any further use — but it'll probably live on as a local custom!

Paimon:

Uh, hang on a sec. Paimon's still got a question about the Gnosis...

Paimon:

When we spoke to Lyney earlier, he mentioned that your attitude towards giving away the Gnosis had clearly changed...

Paimon:

We guessed that there might be some reason for it that only you were aware of...

Neuvillette:

Hmm. No wonder the House of the Hearth is the Fatui's intelligence division. They are certainly sharp.

Neuvillette:

So, regarding this specific issue, I was just getting ready to share something with you.

Paimon:

Uh... What is it?

Neuvillette:

In truth, I exchanged some further words with that lady named Skirk after sending you two back to the surface. It went something like this...

Talk to Neuvillette

Paimon:

...Well, we're going to head topside to see what's going on. You hurry over soon as well, alright, Neuvillette...

Paimon:

Whoa...!

Neuvillette:

What next...

Skirk:

Hmm. The All-Devouring Narwhal isn't here, so I'm no longer getting any interference.

Skirk:

I can finally catch the scent of your power... what it's made of.

Skirk:

It is the authority of the planet's primordial dragons, but with something very similar to a god's "curse" mixed in... It's quite a novel blend.

Skirk:

I'm sure I've encountered something like this before. What was it again...

Neuvillette:

I do not know what you speak of.

Skirk:

Ah, of course... How could I forget:

Skirk:

You should have the "remains of the Third Descender" on your person, yes?

Neuvillette:

Remains? I've never heard of any such thing.

Skirk:

Huh... According to your parlance, I believe it may be called a "Gnosis"?

Neuvillette:

...Well, that much is true. After Focalors' divinity faded, she handed her Gnosis to me.

Neuvillette:

But I fear I have never heard it described in the manner that you just did.

Skirk:

I've been training with my Master, "The Foul," ever since I was young, and I have never returned to the surface since, so most of the information I possess, I got from him.

Skirk:

It is only natural for those who are greater than humanity to possess a different sort of common sense, which is why there are so many problems in our attempts to communicate with humans.

Skirk:

Regardless, you should probably get rid of objects of "misfortune," to prevent any disasters from befalling you.

Skirk:

To live is in itself a blessing. But once a person dies, the bonds he once had with this world shall all turn to curses.

Neuvillette:

What do you mean by that?

Skirk:

No need to fret. These are just my... personal thoughts — and my reason for no longer wishing to return to the surface.

Neuvillette:

This Third Descender you refer to. Who are they? And when did they die?

Skirk:

Master never mentioned them to me. Perhaps it just wasn't that important for me to know.

Skirk:

If you're interested, though, I could ask him. I'll be sure to pass the answer on to you next time.

Neuvillette:

Next time... You believe we will meet again?

Skirk:

I do... Wait, I have a disciple of my own, don't I? He can be the messenger, then.

Talk to Neuvillette

Neuvillette:

...That's what she told me. Whether it would prove useful or not, I wanted to pass that information on to you.

Paimon:

The remains... of the Third Descender?

Paimon:

So that's what the Gnoses actually are? Paimon just thought that they looked like chess pieces. How could they be a person's remains?

Neuvillette:

All the same, assuming that there was no misunderstanding or special metaphor at play, that is what she meant to say.

Paimon:

And she said that it would bring "misfortune" and that you should chuck it, which is why you gave it to the Fatui...

Neuvillette:

If she speaks the truth, then I would simply be putting Fontaine at unnecessary risk by keeping it here.

Traveler:

(A Descender... She mentioned one of them...)

Neuvillette:

I had guessed that you might already be familiar with this concept, but I did not expect you to be one of them.

Neuvillette:

That means that the Gnoses, which are exceedingly element-compatible and can even enhance elemental abilities, do indeed come from the Third Descender.

Neuvillette:

Hmm, I wonder... Does your body also possess similar properties?

Paimon:

Like... Uhh, like being able to use elemental powers without a Vision? That does sorta count as special compatibility, right?

Paimon:

No, no, let's not think about this stuff right now. It just feels creepy...

Paimon:

...Comparing Traveler to the dead Third Descender and all...

Traveler:

Don't worry, I won't die so easily.

Paimon:

That's what you say, but this topic still feels like bad luck.

Paimon:

Once Childe recovers, let's get some more answers out of him — or go look for his Master and get the answers that way!

Neuvillette:

I, too, believe it unwise to make too many blind guesses when information is lacking. The same is true of being at court.

Paimon:

Alright. Whatever the case, it seems like the crisis here in Fontaine's over for now.

Neuvillette:

Yes. All of Focalors' efforts were for this moment as well.

Paimon:

But... She sacrificed herself in the end as a god, and she suffered through all those years as a human... Was that really what she wanted?

Neuvillette:

...I suppose that would be the mystery of a god's will.

Traveler:

Can you understand the will of the gods?

Neuvillette:

I suspect not. But once in a while, I too would guess that if wishes were like the clouds in the sky, they will one day return to the earth as raindrops...

Neuvillette:

Life flows like water, and rain is the final answer. The water levels may sometimes tilt one way or another, but the rain falls fairly upon all.

Neuvillette:

And what, ultimately, is the difference between the rains that fall upon all of us?

chevron_left Chapter IV: Act IV

Cataclysm's Quickening

Chapter IV: Act VI chevron_right

Bedtime Story