A Yesterday Sent From Beyond

...So you're saying disasters are breaking out across Teyvat all at once?

Abnormal Ley Line Outcrops, restless monsters everywhere... It's just been one thing after another...

We need to find a way to stabilize the situation... Ah, Traveler.

...Truth be told, the current prognosis is poor. Monsters have been appearing like a surging tide all across Teyvat as the Holy Soil phenomenon has progressed.

Some are simply fleeing the Hallowing in all directions. Others are aberrations that had accumulated within the Ley Lines, and are now pouring out in full force due to the Ley Line reset.

An outbreak of this scale is something I've only heard of in myths and legends. I never thought it might become our reality.

Fortunately, all nations have already taken action. Fighting off monsters, sharing intel, allocating resources... We're doing everything possible to eliminate the threat.

So everyone's already on the move!

Yes. As mortals, we can't leave all our problems for the gods to solve.

How can I help?

The most pressing matters facing us are the "Trials" mentioned during the meeting. Perhaps you could focus on monitoring their progress...

Hm, I suppose you're right. Having someone of your abilities helping us, even in a minor capacity, would be a great asset. Very well...

Here is the frontline intelligence jointly compiled by the Seven Nations: Battlefield conditions across all regions, threat levels, pending tasks, and trial locations have all been marked out.

Every task resolved will ease the crisis in the local area, and every combat zone stabilized helps turn the tides in our favor.

Whatever crisis Teyvat is facing — big or small — we're here to help! Let's go! Every person we save counts!

Teyvat's future is ours to create.

Hey, it's the whole gang! Vodyanitsa, Odette, and Alyosha!

I didn't think we'd run into you here. I hear things are quite chaotic right now.

Yup, gotta stay in the loop. Then, once we've caught our breath, it's hello to the grindstone again.

Oh yeah — did you hear the news? While we were on the way here, the third rune disappeared.

The third one should be Snezhnaya's. We only just received word ourselves.

Yeah, we don't know all the details. Simply put, golden snow suddenly started falling all over Snezhnaya. Then, the plague that had been spreading like wildfire disappeared just as quickly as it came.

Shortly after that, the rune disappeared from the beam of light. That must have been the Tsaritsa's doing.

Wait, what plague? This is the first we've ever heard about any plague...

That's because we initially thought it was an illness that only affected people who had come into direct contact with the Hallowing. Only later did we discover there was more to it.

Anyway, nothing for you to worry about. It's been resolved.

Phew. That's a relief!

Oh — these are for Mr. Mitya! We thought we'd come here to give him a little morale boost.

Mitya? Isn't he still hard at work researching that new energy?

Mm-hmm, and apparently, he's under massive pressure right now. I haven't seen him at the Korolevskiy Theater in forever.

During the earlier stages of his project, he was always sneaking out for a change of scenery to get inspiration, no matter how busy he was.

True... Yeah, now that you mention it, it is pretty unusual for him to stay cooped up inside for so long.

But imagine what it must be like for him right now... If only the Tsaritsa's weapon were ready, then we could all stop worrying about the Hallowing. No more scrambling around trying to pass all these trials.

Let's try to avoid bringing that up when we see him.

Oh geez, good point... Good thing Paimon got that off her chest in advance...

Accessing the Armory Palace is such a rigmarole that we wouldn't usually get the chance to see him. But he gives regular reports to the Tsaritsa and The Jester. He should be in a meeting with them as we speak.

With everything currently going on, the Tsaritsa has generously opened up Zapolyarny Palace as an intel-sharing and strategy hub. So, it'll actually be easier to catch him while he's here.

Sounds good! We might as well join you.

Just the guy we need! Wherever he is, Mitya's never far away!

Greetings. May I help you?

We're here to visit Mr. Mitya. We heard he usually reports in around this time. Is he meeting with Her Majesty and The Jester at the moment?

Actually, that meeting's over. Now, he's having a technical discussion with another associate.

Technical discussion... That's research work. Wouldn't he usually go back to the Armory Palace for that?

Usually, yes. This time, however, he is meeting with a fae lord who has traveled very far to be here. He has agreed to share a substantial amount of ancient technology and information.

Although there is no particular overlap with the Armory Palace's current energy project, there is often much to be gained when different systems of knowledge collide.

Visiting the Armory Palace entails significant administrative hurdles. Considering the time cost involved, the most efficient solution was to host the discussions at Zapolyarny Palace.

Well, if they're having a technical discussion, they're probably down a deep rabbit hole right now... Guessing it's probably best if we don't interrupt them?

I doubt it would be a problem. From past experience, Mr. Mitya's technical discussions are usually a relatively laid-back affair. Additionally...

...He hasn't caused me any trouble as of late, and he seldom speaks of any new weird and wonderful ideas. This has reduced my workload significantly — however, experience tells me that this is not a good sign.

You think so too, huh? We feel the same way. This isn't like him.

He bears a heavy burden — it is unavoidable. My job is to ensure the project proceeds smoothly, providing effective support and intervention as necessary.

When Mr. Mitya becomes too relaxed towards his work or too anxious about it, complications arise, and I must deal with them... Please, wait here.

Excuse the interruption. You have visitors.

That's fine. Come in.

Oh, it's you guys... Wow, the Korolevskiy Theater crew are so thoughtful! I didn't know you did welfare checks on audience members you haven't seen in a while...

I'll have to write a thank-you letter.

You seem in surprisingly good spirits. Better than we expected, at least.

I guess so. I mean, the apocalypse is nigh — only a few days of suffering left. Having the end in sight really helps keep me optimistic.

Anyway — allow me to introduce Mr. Noy, a distinguished fae lord of Snezhnaya.

Greetings. I have had the pleasure of attending the Korolevskiy Theater before — I was most impressed by both of your performances.

Pleasure to meet you, Sir. And thank you for your kind words. Since you recognize us already, I suppose we'll skip the introductions.

I'm Alyosha. I do odd jobs around the theater.

Paimon is Paimon, and this is Traveler. We're adventurers and best buddies!

These are all personal friends of mine — obviously, I had no idea they were coming. I wouldn't expect to get doted on like this unless I was terminally ill.

How is everything going? Hopefully... not as bad as a terminal illness?

*sigh* Not quite, although it's still a struggle. Our research isn't progressing fast enough. Passing the trials is still looking like our best bet at this stage.

We had a productive discussion, resulting in several new lines of enquiry worth exploring. But every experiment will take time, and it's difficult to predict how fruitful they will be.

All hope is not lost, though. I've already cried for help so loudly that I expect all of Teyvat heard me.

You mean, you've requested assistance?

Bingo. We're assembling a group of the smartest helpers around. They're already on the way.

Good to hear! Hmm... Paimon can think of about a hundred people who that could be!

And the trials are going really well — just two more left. See? There's plenty of reason to be optimistic. We totally have the upper hand!

Bit premature for that kind of language...

Oops, true. Shutting up... Mm, anyway, we're just here for a quick breather before heading to the next nation to help with their trial.

Yeah, even if things are looking optimistic, we should stay focused on the task at hand. We each have our part to play. Divide and conquer.

Exactly. And by the same token, you gotta have absolute trust in everyone else to do their part. Just like when you're performing on stage.

Oh? Do elaborate.

Our shows often feature elaborate stagecraft. I sometimes have to stand on a moving platform, and Odette gets hoisted into the air while she dances.

In those moments, we can't afford to be thinking about whether the platform might collapse, or the rope might suddenly break.

It's not that we lack safety awareness. Rather, we know that the equipment is top-quality and the staff are trained professionals. They give us complete confidence.

And when we're working, we get to thinking about how beautiful and moving the actors' performances are. Our work designing the sets has meaning thanks to them.

Yeah! All of which is to say, we believe in you! And Valeriy, and Pierro, the Tsaritsa, and all the researchers... Wait, wait! And you too, of course — uh... Noy? Mr. Noy!

Relax — no offense taken. I am no scientist of any distinction. I can merely offer a few suggestions within my limited area of expertise.

But this research project stands, undoubtedly, to become the most significant of its generation. The success or failure of this endeavor will determine the future of Snezhnaya... indeed, the whole of Teyvat.

Wow. I finally managed to relax, and now my heart's right back in my mouth again.

...

Someone doesn't like the sound of that.

Hehe, alright then — no "speaking from the heart," I promise.

...Thank you all so much. Your words of encouragement bring me a lot of comfort. I'll focus on what I have to do, and leave the rest to the Tsaritsa.

You know, maybe I should take this chance to have a vacation. I haven't been to the theater in so long...

May I remind you that you have a meeting at the Armory Palace after this.

Kidding! I'm just kidding. There always has to be one of us working so the other can rest.

Your Majesty, we have successfully curbed the spread of the plague.

All members of the Fatui and the Druzhna who partook in the fight against the Hallowing have been quarantined while we continue to examine their condition.

A team comprised of the very best doctors is working to identify the source of the plague and develop a cure. We are confident they will soon have answers for us.

Have any new symptoms been observed besides the cognitive impairments?

In most cases, only systemic fatigue. But a small number of those infected become manic and highly aggressive, as if they've turned into ferocious monsters.

Troops who fought against the monsters brought by the Hallowing reported suddenly being attacked by a different wave of monsters.

With the benefit of hindsight, these monsters were likely infected with the same plague themselves. They were unusually fierce, in some cases attacking both friend and foe indiscriminately.

Hence why quarantining those affected was a necessary measure.

Had we only realized sooner that these symptoms were caused by a new infectious disease, rather than being side effects of contact with light realm energy, we could have substantially reduced the scale of the outbreak. In this, I have failed you, Your Majesty.

You are not to blame. Both the Hallowing and the plague are challenges none of us have faced before.

We must be sure to support the affected soldiers and their families however we can. They have displayed exemplary loyalty. Snezhnaya must not take their efforts for granted.

My thoughts exactly, Your Majesty. I shall see to it at once.

Your Majesty, you have a visitor. He calls himself "Tysyatsky."

Send him in.

Yes, Your Majesty!

Tysyatsky Noy, requesting the honor of an audience, Your Majesty.

No need for the formalities. Snezhnaya has not forgotten your roots. You are held in high esteem and your presence here is always welcome.

I thank you for your kind words, Your Majesty.

What brings you away from your castle? Has the Hallowing made it to Protakropolis already?

No, not yet. However, the gravity of the present situation compelled me to make an appearance. I wish to ask about the origin of that beam of light.

It is something of a long story. I trust you are already somewhat acquainted with Her Majesty's views and goals, so allow me to explain.

So it really came to this...

At long last. But I'm sure you are mentally prepared?

Faced with a situation like this, it would be a stretch to merely steel one's nerves and call that "prepared." I may not have experienced the destruction of the golden realm directly, but I am better acquainted than anyone with the rubble and ruins of that era.

And while my memories of it are certainly bittersweet, before it all came crumbling down, it was the land I called home.

I was lucky enough to be beyond the starryTaucosa sky when catastrophe struck. But then I was pulled back by a gravitational force that could not be fought against...

...I'm sure I need not explain to you the indelible impact that the sight of ruins leaves upon the soul.

Indeed. But simply lamenting the past will not prevent history from repeating itself.

Agreed, which is why I am here neither to stop you nor to criticize you.

You and the Belyi Tsar share the same will. He always hoped that I would lend you my aid.

On my way here, I saw men battling men, beasts attacking beasts... It was a queer sight to behold.

We presume this to be a plague let loose by the spread of the Hallowing. Efforts are underway to contain and resolve the outbreak.

You know something about this?

As I didn't wish to harm the afflicted, I did not have the chance to observe their condition up close. But I sensed a familiar presence rearing its head.

I believe this plague may be caused by the remnants of the golden realm.

Then please accompany me to the quarantine center. There, we can investigate further.

I shall join you.

Very well. Lead the way.

Given the sudden nature of the outbreak, only those in critical condition or who display high levels of aggression have been isolated in the temporary ward. Those with milder symptoms are receiving treatment here.

Let me see. If my suspicions are correct, it should take only a moment to confirm the diagnosis.

...So it's true.

You're positive?

Yes. I don't know how familiar you are with the great war that preceded the Belyi Tsar unifying Snezhnaya.

The fae fought bitter battles over every inch of land, baying for blood and for turf. Amidst the fray, the Tsar rose to prominence, becoming a force to be reckoned with.

The other fae had two choices: Yield, or fight to the death. I'm sure you are well aware of how much blood was spilled on this vast tundra.

Among those slain were many powerful fae. They died heroes' deaths, staunch and unyielding, swearing vengeance with their dying breaths.

Like their blood, their fury spilled onto the tundra, and there it became frozen in time, sealed away deep beneath the icy plains.

I see.

What you describe... It sounds much like what other nations call "gods' remains."

Yes. The very same.

But now, the Hallowing resets everything in its path, and as millennia of compounded ice disappear in an instant, their fury is released once more upon the land.

Just a touch of it is enough to overwhelm weaker lifeforms with its anger and grief, creating the situation we see before us now.

So, that is the root cause... resentment buried beneath the ice...

A curse...

Hmm?

This plague — it is a curse, formed by the death of the fae, left to afflict other forms of life.

In that case, the solution is now clear. My authority exists precisely for this purpose.

...Your "authority"?

Love. That is Her Majesty's power — the power to undo most of the curses that afflict the world.

But... You turned against the Heavenly Principles long ago. You have rejected this form of "love"... Can you wield its power even so?

That is the most ridiculous aspect of all of this.

If the heavens see fit that I make a gesture of "love," then so be it.

Pierro, tell all sufferers of the plague: When next the snow falls, they shall be healed.

Yes, Your Majesty.

"Authority"...

It's hard to believe it without seeing it.

I have witnessed it before with my own eyes... albeit only once.

But this time, it shall serve to confirm beyond doubt that Her Majesty is indeed capable of wielding this power.

She has simply been... unwilling to use it until now.

External target detected entering processing area.

Trial in progress. Subject: "Love." Please submit your interpretation.

By your design, Love is a force that dispels curses afflicting the world and maintains Teyvat's stability.

Yet this power lies under strict limitations. I can only remove such curses as you did not beget. I must turn a blind eye to those you impose.

Love itself is one such curse. You force me to forget its true nature. Instead, I may love only those whom you require.

And yet, you would have me submit my interpretation of true Love, based solely on the love for humanity that you bestow upon me...

...What sense could ever be made of this?

Please note: The above answer bears no relevance to the trial.

Then let us examine this so-called trial critically. You have inflicted the Holy Soil phenomenon upon Teyvat, releasing the wrath of the ancient fae.

"If she still wields authority over love, she will surely dispel this wrath."

What a means to prove one's love... First to inflict suffering, and then to seek its relief...

Utterly absurd.

Clearly, even you do not know what love is, Phanes.

You hold the lives of all humanity ransom, and their homelands, and admire our desperate struggle to survive, all to test whether or not we will still obey...

This is a desecration of love. You who have spoiled its meaning have no right to judge us in its name.

Those beams of light that shot out from the Nails of Judgment have all gathered together in one place... Might as well tell us, "that's where you gotta go," huh?

And after that, the light they were originally giving off died down a lot. Looks like they're back to how they were before.

Does that mean that we've finally passed all the Trials of Usurpation?

Phew. The question now is... What about the Hallowing?

I just received word that it has stopped spreading in Snezhnaya for now. I suspect the same is true of the other nations.

Ah, so you got the message.

Yes. I was about to depart. I presume you shall be joining me?

Are we going to where the beams of light have converged?

Yes, I believe it intends to announce something to us, to mark the end of these events.

Well, given that the Hallowing has stopped spreading, surely this'll be a thumbs-up from the Heavenly Principles...

We can but hope that is the case.

It will likely be a procedural announcement. The Heavenly Principles still slumbers — direct communication would be impossible.

Had the Heavenly Principles awakened, I doubt we would be afforded this opportunity at all.

Oh, yeah... Good point...

No doubt the other nations will be sending representatives to that location as well. If you are ready, then let us proceed.

...

(The air around her is colder than usual... I'm nervous, too. Who knows where this will lead...)

(...I'd better make sure my affairs are in order before I go. This might be my last chance. I need to be prepared for anything.)

...When the Hallowing spread to Tsurumi Island, we thought it wouldn't spread any further, at least for now.

But earlier today, I got a message claiming that the phenomenon has been detected along Seirai Island's shores too.

It's spread there already? ...Then the sea isn't the protective barrier we believed it might be. Narukami Island needs to be on high alert.

Hey! Ayaka, Thoma!

Huh...? Traveler? What are you doing here!

It's been too long.

It certainly has. I heard about what happened in Snezhnaya in a letter I was sent. They mentioned your involvement, too. It's hard to believe that it's come to this...

Yeah, it's all so sudden, isn't it? That's why we're doing the rounds and seeing who needs help. Everyone's probably stretched pretty thin right now, huh?

It's alright. We're coping. The Tri-Commission responded quickly, so things are relatively stable for now. We've avoided widespread panic, at least.

We've established evacuation points and remained in close contact with our Liyue counterparts — things are looking a little more optimistic there.

But if we do need to evacuate, our destination will ultimately have to be Fontaine. It'll be a very long journey.

Yeah, that's way too far. Let's hope it doesn't come to that...

Where are things up to with the trial?

The Almighty Shogun called a meeting at Tenshukaku to discuss it right after she got back. But Ayato tells me that she didn't say much. She mostly stayed quiet and listened.

Now, Ayato and Lady Guuji are holding the meetings... It doesn't sound like things are going very smoothly.

Based on the information from Liyue, Inazuma's trial should be on the subject of "Eternity."

You'll remember that our Eternity underwent a somewhat... seismic change after your arrival in Inazuma.

These days, you rarely hear any talk about Eternity. The word itself is gradually disappearing from most everyday conversations, as if it's a chapter of history that we've left behind.

Makes sense... The real change was the Shogun changing her own views on the matter, but even for regular folks, it must feel like the era of unchanging eternity is over.

Exactly. Well... until the thunderstorm began to sound once more.

What thunderstorm?

Not the one that surrounded Inazuma during the Sakoku Decree, surely?

Yes, in fact. The manifestation of the Almighty Shogun's power... We thought we would never see it again.

Well, we didn't run into any storms on our way here...

That's because this time, it isn't being used to lock Inazuma down. It comes and goes without warning... And it doesn't seem to be the Almighty Shogun who is controlling it.

What? But how? Paimon thought that lightning only strikes where she wants it to... If she's not the one controlling it, where is this thunderstorm coming from?

That question might be the very reason why the Almighty Shogun has been so quiet. But since you're here, you should go and see her yourself.

I can only give you second-hand information I got from Ayato, after all. I didn't attend the meeting myself.

Oh... Sorry, I forgot. You've just had a very long journey, and you must be feeling weary. Change of plan — head to Komore Teahouse for some much-needed rest. I'll have Thoma sort everything out.

I'd be delighted to, my lady. Heh, Taroumaru's missed you guys, he'll be so happy to see you.

I'll head over to Tenshukaku and inform everyone of your arrival. In the meantime, you can just switch off and relax.

It's alright, Ayaka. We know you're just trying to look after us, but there's no need for all this.

Oh, I see... Well, sure. Just know that you're welcome at Komore Teahouse anytime. And remember that in this time of great danger, it's more important than ever to look after yourselves and stay fighting fit.

Don't you worry about a thing. We eat danger for breakfast! And lunch, and dinner.

Hehe, so the rumors are true — you're truly unstoppable adventurers now. Walking the walk and talking the talk.

I think they were already there when we first met them. They've just had more opportunity since then to show the world what they're capable of.

We had no idea that our story was traveling so far and wide. Pretty impressive that you heard about it all the way here in Inazuma.

You'd better believe it. My lady is always bugging me for the latest news about you.

Thoma! That's quite enough...!

Anyway... Welcome back. I don't believe it's by accident that fate has brought you to us once more.

And as for the trial... You are the one who caused the Shogun to first question Eternity. Perhaps now, you can help her find the answer.

No unauthorized persons allow— Oh, it's you two.

Sorry to intrude. We're here to see the Shogun.

Sure. I'll lead the way.

Hmm? It appears we have some more special guests joining us.

What a long time it has been. Welcome to you both.

It's you two! Good to see you again. I had no idea... Ah, some good news at last.

Oh, hey. You're not heading back to the Sangonomiya Shrine?

I've sent Gorou back there for now. In these unprecedented times, as well as keeping ourselves safe, Watatsumi Island must be ready to support the other islands, too.

As an archipelago, there is some regional disconnect in Inazuma at the best of times. If we don't act in solidarity now, it will only serve to deepen any existing divisions. That would be an unwise move.

It's also a rare opportunity for the shrine maidens from both sides to meet. I, for one, very much welcome it.

Got it... Well, it's always a good sign when everyone can sit down in the same room and talk things over. Speaking of which, where are things up to with your talks?

Allow me to explain.

Our core issue at the moment is that the sea cannot serve as a bulwark against the Hallowing. This leaves us unable to predict where it will spread to next, meaning that we have to plan for many different scenarios.

Earlier today, we heard that the Hallowing had spread to Seirai Island. Kujou Sara has taken a team there to fend off the monsters.

We saw Ayaka and Thoma on the way over. They seem pretty busy with everything, too.

Yes, all the Commissions are responsible for fighting off monsters and coordinating evacuations. The Kanjou Commission is also gathering supplies and readying as many ships as possible.

Correct. Also, emergency measures are underway in Ritou to clear out storage sites so they can be repurposed as refugee shelters or rudimentary ship-building sites.

Sounds super hectic... Um, so what are you all doing here?

To put an end to the Hallowing, there is the matter of the trial. The Almighty Shogun would like to hear our opinions on the subject.

The Eternity paradigm has been overturned. The question is, does this constitute a rejection of the Heavenly Principles' plan? And if so, does this make the trial impossible to pass?

In a nation that is in flux once more, the only way to show that Eternity still exists is to find something that remains constant and unchanged.

As far as I'm concerned, the answer is "humanity." Unfortunately, that hasn't settled the matter.

Okay, so that's where we're stuck. Well... is there anything we can do to help?

Oh, you needn't worry. The Almighty Shogun has shared her plan with us, and we all approve.

It's just that, in order to obtain the evidence to present to the Heavenly Principles, we need a little help from some special guests from afar. We're still waiting for them to arrive.

Ohhh, so that's what you meant when you said "some more special guests." Paimon was wondering who the other ones were!

How smart you are now, little one.

While we're still waiting for our helpers to get here, why don't you head in for a chat with the Almighty Shogun? Well... "Ei," technically. I'm sure she'll be very happy to see you.

If you say so. Sounds like you know more than you're letting on.

Very perceptive.

The answer to this trial didn't just present itself. We all contemplated it for a long time.

The one moment that is indelibly etched into Ei's mind is from your battle in the Plane of Euthymia, when the sky lit up with stars that represented the people's hopes and dreams...

You were the only other witness to that moment besides her, and you played the key role in causing her to reconsider her ideals. So if there's anyone whose perspective she'll listen to, it's yours.

Oopsie-daisy, I've said too much. Don't go telling on me, now. You wouldn't want to find out the consequences.

Hehe. You may keep your thoughts to yourself. Off you go, now.

...

Ei. It's us.

Welcome, it's good to see you again.

You look deep in thought... But haven't you already figured out the answer? That's what the others said.

Faced with a looming crisis and an uncertain future, I find myself unable to relax. Even though I have found my answer, there are many other factors beyond my control.

Eternity is what I promised to my people. My commitment to it is what I must display to the Heavenly Principles.

Though there were many twists and turns before I finally arrived at a true understanding, seeing the people of Inazuma stand behind me in solidarity with one another, today I am more convinced than ever that I was right to change my mind when I did.

Definitely, we can tell.

To me, my convictions and the nation of Inazuma itself both represent Eternity sufficiently. Yet, the trial still requires me to produce some other evidence.

All of us thought long and hard, trying to decide what could represent Eternity in the most concise and compelling manner...

And then... I was startled by the sound of thunder.

What? You're... scared of thunder? ...Uh, not that there's any shame in it — the sound of thunder always makes Paimon jump, too. But... you of all people...

It was the first time I had felt it in my entire life. Until then, every bolt of lightning, every thunderous roar, had been under my control. None of it could take me by surprise.

Ohhh, right! Paimon remembers now! So, do you have any idea what the cause is?

...By now, you are no strangers to Teyvat. I trust the concept of "elemental dragons" is nothing new to you.

Elemental dragons? Wait... The Electro Dragon's causing the thunderstorms? Huh... Is there an Electro Dragon in Inazuma, though? Paimon's never heard of one...

Long ago, in the distant past, I once slew a great Thunderbird on the island of Seirai which posed a threat to Inazuma's safety.

The dragons were the original form of life in Teyvat. Though they may perish, their elemental energy surges on incessantly, eventually giving rise to a new dragon.

Knowing this, when I slew the Thunderbird, I also severed the connection between the primordial Electro energy and time itself.

Whoa, whoa... you severed time!? Like, with your sword? Is that even possible!?

Time is a law that can be broken with sufficient power. To put it in terms you may find easier to understand, I sealed the primordial Electro element away.

From that moment on, there has never been a thunderstorm in Inazuma that was not under my control. Back then, I was convinced that with absolute power, I could create absolute Eternity.

Okay, well, we've definitely seen how powerful you are, but even so, that's pretty impressive...

Exactly. The Hallowing has the power to reset everything it touches. It is therefore no surprise that it can undo the seal I placed and cause time to flow there once again.

*sigh* As if the Hallowing wasn't enough of a pain in the butt already... This is the last thing we need.

That is one way to view it. Another is to say that it is a sign — a sign that one last remnant of the old Eternity still remains in the form of the Thunderbird's power.

If I wish to prove that Eternity has truly changed, I must release this power and display it at the trial.

You... You want to release the Electro Dragon?

Surely that's much too dangerous? Who knows what the consequences could be...

At the meeting in Snezhnaya, we discussed the matter of dragonkind. The dragons have held an enmity towards the gods since ancient times, but this legacy is slowly but surely changing.

Mondstadt and Sumeru are the obvious examples. But even Monsieur Neuvillette, who openly declares the gods to be usurpers, is offering them his help now that we have a common enemy.

Why, then, should Inazuma not try to follow this trend?

All good points, but doesn't it kinda depend on what the elemental dragons think? They all have pretty different personalities.

Not to mention that you kinda killed the Thunderbird with your own hands... How sure are you that it'll suddenly wanna make friends with you?

That will be up to the Thunderbird itself. First, I must give it the chance to respond.

The issue is, even if I release the Thunderbird's power, it will require a long incubation period before it can take shape as a conscious lifeform.

I must ensure that it is contained, otherwise it may run rampant around the nation, posing a serious threat to the lives of Inazumans. Hence, I plan to use the Shogun's body as a vessel in which to store it.

You... what? The Shogun's body? ...Every sentence you come out with in this conversation is hitting Paimon like a bolt of lightning. Paimon's at a loss for words.

Is it? I beg to differ. I think each new detail I utter follows quite logically from the last.

Okay, well... Assuming for a second that this isn't up for debate, and we go along with this crazy plan... Practically speaking, how do you actually pull it off?

Stuffing all of the primordial Electro energy in Inazuma into the Shogun's body... That's gotta be easier said than done, surely?

Ei, our guests have arrived.

I am ready. Let's go, we'll talk indoors.

Uh... Huh? Hey! What a surprise!

You're surprised? Imagine how I feel... What are you doing here?

I was unaware that you were acquainted.

Of course we are. Everyone in Natlan knows about Tumaini after the war against the Abyss.

Thank you both for taking the trouble to come all this way. Since everyone is acquainted, we shall skip the introductions.

As I mentioned previously, I invited you here because I wish to release the power of the Thunderbird and contain it within the body of the Raiden Shogun.

The Shogun was, of course, designed to bear god-level Electro energy from the outset.

However, she will no doubt require an upgrade if she is to take on an additional power source of the same caliber and quantity.

My understanding of primordial elemental energy is limited. This is an engineering task the scope of which is beyond what I can accomplish alone, hence why I have brought in expert support from the outside.

After the meeting in Snezhnaya, I shared my thoughts with both Mavuika and Neuvillette.

I understand that Phlogiston is a widely used energy source in Natlan whose origin is primordial Pyro energy.

We moved on to a discussion of the most distinguished craftspeople in Natlan. She was quick to recommend you unreservedly.

Gee, how nice of her... I wasn't even there, and the meeting had nothing to do with me, but she still found a way to rope me in.

But, I guess I can't blame her. I'm probably the only one who can handle a project like this.

Additionally to successfully complete the upgrade, I shall need to conduct many experiments focused on the unique properties of primordial elemental energy.

No one wields this power more adeptly than the Hydro Dragon himself, so naturally, gaining Neuvillette's assistance was my first choice.

And to everyone's surprise... you actually agreed to help...

Though Fontaine does not face the threat of the Hallowing at this stage, we will not remain safe for long if the other nations do not conquer their trials.

Moreover, this project is beneficial for dragonkind. I am inclined to view it as a gesture of goodwill on Inazuma's part.

Good thinking, Ei. You picked the two best candidates in the whole world off the top of your head.

Then let us delay no further. Please take a seat inside, both of you. I will explain the working principles of the Shogun puppet.

I will leave you to monitor the Hallowing yourselves for the time being. Unless there is any major change, you may deal with things as you see fit.

Understood. You will have our full cooperation.

Ei's plan sounded so crazy at first, but she really thought of everything. Guess we're about to find out what the Shogun is really capable of...

Hopefully the upgrade goes smoothly. She has the best help you could ask for, so there's no reason why it shouldn't... Anyway, all we can do is wait.

So, how's it going? Everything on track?

Thanks to our experts, the upgrade is complete. Peak values reached in testing exceeded the theoretical value by thirty percent, showing that the puppet is operating as robustly as ever.

I still have no idea how I would've created the necessary test conditions without Monsieur Neuvillette here... Yawn...

Good work... You must be exhausted.

Yeah, we worked all night. Didn't get a wink of sleep...

Apologies, it was my oversight. When I am working at my desk, I often lose track of time and forget to take breaks. Before I knew it, morning had arrived and it was time to report in.

It was an urgent project and they were both so focused... I didn't wanna be the one to suddenly throw in the towel. I just wanted to push a little longer and get it done.

...Yeah, sorry, I really can't complain about working all night — they had it much tougher than me.

A room has been arranged for you, please get all the rest you need. Thank you for everything, you have been an enormous help.

The same goes for you, Monsieur Neuvillette. Having been made aware of your preferences, I have also made sure that samples of the very finest water we have to offer are available in your room.

I sincerely appreciate the gesture — however, it won't be necessary. I must return to Fontaine at once. There is still much to be done.

Once this crisis is firmly behind us, I shall have to visit Inazuma again to pay my respects to the new Electro Dragon.

Very well. Then I look forward to your next visit.

Well, I'm gonna hit the hay, thanks. Good luck with everything...

Come. Let us go to Seirai Island

Almighty Shogun.

What is the situation?

Since the Hallowing has spread to Seirai Island, monsters have appeared there in large numbers. Our troops are fighting hard to keep them at bay.

The thunderstorms on the island are also growing stronger. Intermittent roars of thunder pierce the sky, like the furious cries of an enraged bird.

I understand you intend to reach the highest point on Seirai Island. To that end, I mapped out a feasible route in advance. Do you wish to proceed now?

Not yet. First, I will take care of the monsters. It will give me a chance to see how well I can adapt to this newly upgraded body.

Understood. This way, please.

Let's tag along!

Very good. A testament to Xilonen's expertise in ancient dragon technology.

With this power, I am ready to face the primordial thunderstorm itself. It's time. Let's proceed to the highest point of the island.

I will leave you to stand guard at ground level.

As you command, Shogun.

Wh—What is that!? Are Paimon's eyes deceiving her...?

This is indeed its original form. I can feel the boundless resentment and rage within the pulsing primordial Electro energy.

Uh-oh. This is not going as well as we hoped...

Aaah! And now there's Kairagi, too?

Resentment from the Ley Lines... Or perhaps caused by the Hallowing.

Either way, I am prepared for a fierce battle. Fall back and get to safety, or you might get hurt.

O—Okay...

That was insanely dangerous... at least you managed to subdue it in the end. You're incredible, Ei!

How does it feel?

...

It's finally calmed down.

After absorbing it into my body, a manifestation of the Thunderbird appeared in the Plane of Euthymia. It fought back with fierce lightning strikes in an attempt to break free.

We had another battle, only this time, I tried to convey with my blade that I meant it no harm.

Oh... You had a whole other battle inside.

I suspect there will be hundreds more such battles to come. It will take a very long time to go from merely being subdued to fully accepting my goodwill.

But this is nothing compared to the time I planted the Sacred Sakura.

Sounds like you're forcing the Thunderbird to bend to your will...

I'm sure it does. But the truth is, I have my non-negotiable terms, and so does it.

I have always believed that dueling is superior to words at sharpening the will and building character. If we can reach a reconciliation with this approach, it will be a far cry from one party simply using violence to force the the other into submission.

Trust me. Or rather, trust the blade in my hand.

If you say you can do it, I believe you.

Same. If you were anyone else, and we didn't already know you, Paimon feels like she'd take a lot more convincing... But you're Raiden Ei, and you've put your money where your mouth is on this kind of thing plenty of times before...

Anyway... now that the Thunderbird has been freed, it's probably time to head to Tsurumi Island and face the Nail of Retribution's trial, right?

It is indeed. In the meantime, Inazuma remains plagued by monsters brought by the Hallowing. Many across the land need assistance — I will leave this to you.

I will go to Tsurumi Island alone.

Sure thing. You got this! Trust in your blade!

See you on the other side.

Stay safe.

Paimon meant "trust in your blade" as a figure of speech! She didn't know you were actually gonna use it in the trial!

I just felt that there was no need for me to say anything to the Heavenly Principles. The power I wield is enough proof that I have taken heaven's demands to heart.

I struck with the force of my own power combined with primordial Electro energy. I believe that the rune sensed this, and that is why it disappeared.

Almighty Shogun, if there is one thing for which you have always been known, it is the clear-cut nature of your decision-making.

What a powerful strike! Just like the one that formed Musoujin Gorge... I never thought I'd witness such a thing in my life!

Are you actually excited, or just frightened? Is this giving you flashbacks to last time, hmm?

Obviously, I was nowhere near as frightened as last time... This time it was more... awe-struck.

When you draw your blade out of principal, it's about fighting for what you stand for — not proving your strength. I can tell that the Almighty Shogun firmly believes that, too.

All of us in Inazuma are well acquainted with how the Raiden Shogun does things, so the outcome of the trial didn't surprise us at all. What does surprise me is that our esteemed guest from abroad didn't seem to bat an eye either...

Oh... I mean, yeah, it was pretty wild. It's just, kinda the same deal with our god in Natlan.

That's true... Not that their personalities are even remotely similar. But Mavuika sure can strike hard when it counts.

Well, the trial has been cracked and things are looking up. Our thanks to everyone present for helping to make this possible, and to all in Inazuma for their efforts.

But the people I feel sorriest of all for are the authors who make regular submissions to the Yae Publishing House. Unfortunately for them, the next deadline will still come on schedule, hehe.

Uhh... Yeah, sure, let's spare a thought for all the struggling writers at this trying time...

Many challenges still lie ahead of us — we cannot rest on our laurels. I shall delay no longer, and leave those present to relay the message of the successful trial to all parties concerned.

I do not believe that the destruction sent our way by the Heavenly Principles will simply be withdrawn without further incident.

Whatever new trials lie ahead, let us hope that our wits and our blades are strong enough to conquer them.

Much appreciated. I hope it's not too much of an inconvenience.

Not at all! The Akademiya has been a friend to Zubayr Theater for quite some time now. In a situation like this, it's about time we returned the favor!

Look, it's Tighnari and Nilou! Hey, you two!

Traveler! Paimon! What a surprise! It's been too long!

Nice to see you two again, although I wasn't expecting you to make your way to Sumeru.

Were you two discussing something?

Just the spread of the Hallowing. Its path has been so hard to predict, and with monsters running around everywhere, the Akademiya is trying to set up a place for people to take shelter.

Mr. Zubayr was kind enough to offer up his theater, but things are a little chaotic right now, with so many people gathered there.

It's alright. Of course a sudden change of environment would leave a lot of people unsettled. All it takes is a little organization, and we'll work out the kinks in no time.

Only because we're lucky enough to have someone as patient as you in charge.

The Amurta Darshan is also planning to move some of the plant specimens out of Pardis Dhyai to keep them safe.

But there's no room to grow them in the Akademiya. I've been asking around about other options, but I honestly wasn't holding out too much hope...

Hehe, turned out to be an easy fix, though! We're putting the ones that don't need sun inside. With a little arranging, I'm sure they'll brighten up the space and lift everyone's spirits.

For the ones that do need sun... We can bring them outside on the flower cart you gave me. Mr. Zubayr and the others will help too.

I honestly can't thank you all enough.

So, you're making sure you're prepared for the worst, huh... Still, that beam of light is pretty far from the rainforest, right? Isn't it all the way out in the desert?

Yes, but the spread of the Hallowing has been erratic and unpredictable, and the trajectory is impossible to pin down. If we wait until it's at our door to start making plans, it'll already be too late.

Actually, Dehya and her mercs are in the desert as we speak, dealing with the monsters that have emerged as a result of the Hallowing. The Corps of Thirty have been dispatched as well.

That's right. They've also been evacuating people from the desert and sending them here. But, I fear we're going to be at capacity very soon...

Sounds like Sumeru City might get pretty crowded... Wait, is that why the plants needed to be moved out of Pardis Dhyai?

Yes, the Amurta Darshan thought there might be better uses for the space. I'm impressed, Paimon. That was a clever connection you just made.

Hehe, Paimon just keeps getting smarter and smarter, doesn't she? You have a whole new respect for her, don't you?

The sages have been helping, and the gods from the desert have provided their insights as well, so the response has been well-organized so far.

Something else seems to be troubling the Dendro Archon, though. She asked if I could hear a certain sound.

A sound?

Yeah, she's asked a whole bunch of people the same question... Unfortunately, she seems to be the only one who can hear it.

According to her description, it's not an animal or similar to any sound found in nature. It has a rhythm to it, almost like language, but at the same time, it's completely incomprehensible...

We all want to help, but without being able to hear it ourselves, there's not much we can do.

Huh, you have a knack for picking up on weird things, Traveler. Why don't you give it a go?

...

(I hear... the familiar sounds of Sumeru City, a gentle breeze, the rustling of leaves, the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar, and a mixture of emotions in people's voices...)

I don't think I can hear it either...

That's a shame. You should still pay the Dendro Archon a visit since you're here, though. Perhaps she can give a better description of what she's hearing.

That's what we were planning to do, anyway... Oh, wait! How's Collei doing? Is she any better?

She's made a full recovery. I left her in charge of Avidya Forest while I handle matters at the Akademiya. I wouldn't have done that if I didn't have full confidence in her condition.

That said, we all know how Collei loves to push herself. So, I'll be sure to head back and check on her soon.

That's a relief! Say hi to her for us, okay? We're gonna go see Nahida!

Good luck to us all! Times are hard, but we've made it through before, and we can do it again. I believe in us!

(Nilou and the others are ordinary civilians... They know about the Hallowing, but I doubt they know the end of the world is just around the corner...)

(...We can't let that happen.)

Our biggest problem right now is that the areas affected by the Hallowing are too dangerous for most people to approach. We can't run our tests if we can't get a sample.

You assume running tests is even within the realm of possibility... Getting the sample is the least of our worries. How do you plan to contain it? A box? A flask?

For all we know, it could burn through the receptacle and drip onto the roots of this giant tree!

All hail Lord Thoth and his infinite wisdom...

It's called being aware of the risks! Whether you choose to assume those risks and act anyway is another matter entirely.

Well, this looks like a fun group. Hello, everyone.

Hello there.

You're here... What a pleasant surprise!

Yet again, we cross paths under dire circumstances. It is becoming quite the pattern...

Hardly. The Traveler has been present for countless festivals and merry occasions in Sumeru. You just weren't there...

As you can see, though we find ourselves on the verge of crisis, everyone is still bouncing off the walls with energy like a group of bouncy mushrooms.

When it comes to crises like these, perhaps we do possess "infinite wisdom" in some sense... After all, it's hardly the first time Sumeru has faced such dire circumstances.

*sigh* True. Sumeru just can't seem to catch a break...

Ah, that's right. It appeared at almost the same time as the beam of light in the distance, and I can still hear it now.

Unfortunately, it's so faint, I seem to be the only one who can hear it... I'm assuming you two can't hear it either?

Nope. Sorry.

If it were just some aftereffect of the Hallowing, I wouldn't be so hung up on it. But it really does sound like it could be some sort of language, just one I haven't been able to identify.

If I could make sense of it, maybe it would lead to some sort of clue or hint.

Not to be a wet blanket, so to speak, but we have yet to rule out the possibility of it being an auditory hallucination. As is well-known, King Deshret was quite prone to afflictions of that nature.

True that may be, I fail to see what Al-Ahmar's afflictions have to do with Lesser Lord Kusanali.

Have you been to the Nail of Retribution?

Not yet. Everything happened so suddenly, there were simply too many things to take care of in Sumeru City. I want to get things settled here first before heading over.

You think the closer I get to the beam of light, the stronger the sound might become?

Yeah! What if it's some sort of signal being emitted from the Nail of Retribution? If you're not sensitive to that kind of thing, of course you wouldn't be able to hear it in Sumeru City. It's way too far away!

Um, but if we wanna get closer, those huge tornados are gonna be a problem...

Well, we won't know unless we try. I just feel bad about abandoning all the work here at the Akademiya...

Just leave it to us. You're better off getting to the bottom of that trial. The fate of Teyvat hangs in the balance, after all...

Just so! You and I both know better than to make an enemy of that being in the sky. If they mean to give you instruction, do it at once. Appease them however you can. Such is the relationship between ruler and subject.

That's definitely not the takeaway here, but whatever...

I appreciate the help. I suppose I better set off, then. Traveler, Paimon... Would you mind coming with me?

I'll need someone to help note down what I hear. Besides, with your special physical constitution, Traveler, you might be able to hear it too once we get closer.

Alright! To the desert we go!

Looks like this is as close as we can get. Hear anything?

(I hear... sand whipping through the air, howling winds that never seem to stop... The whole world seems twisted in on itself, like a towel wrung until dry...)

(...!)

I think I hear something!

You do? That proves it's not in Nahida's head! There has to be some sort of secret here! So, what kind of sound was it?

I can't say. It definitely didn't sound... human. It's unlike anything I've heard before.

It's alright. I can "see" it.

Yes, it's exactly like what I heard.

Well, being able to see it makes this a whole lot easier. Time to map it out on paper.

On paper? But it's a sound...

Yes, at its core, sound is just vibrations. This particular sound, though, seems to have something like magic behind it, allowing only a small number of people to actually be able to hear it.

But now, I can see it and feel it. So if I map out the vibrations on paper, and do a few calculations, I'll be able to create a visual depiction of the sound.

There you have it. This should be the full picture.

Yes. Getting it down on paper was the first step to deciphering this thing, but we're not done yet. It's still unfinished...

But, even I'm at a loss as to where to go from here. If we want to get to the bottom of this, we need the "key."

Man, how come a simple sound is this complicated? With all the brilliant minds in Sumeru, Paimon thought this was gonna be a walk in the park, but now she's not so sure...

Well, at least everyone can see it now.

Exactly. That's certainly a step in the right direction. Let's head back and update everyone on our progress.

Now, why does this look so familiar... Goatie, does this not look like that thing our king used to tinker with?

I could not say.

Useless as ever. Why did I even ask...

If this signal isn't a result of the Hallowing, but a coded message emitting from the Nail of Retribution itself, it would make sense that Al-Ahmar might have encountered something similar.

Precisely! Our King was an intelligent man, but without studying that nail, he never would have been able to come up with a creation as exquisite as Aaru, nor conceive of the Golden Slumber.

Although we can't claim to understand this language, and can only describe it in our own terms, at a fundamental level, there really are quite a few similarities.

If that's the case, then maybe Aaru can help us decipher this thing... It replaced Irminsul as the new center of wisdom, right? Maybe it'll give us some clues!

Even if we can't find any existing knowledge to draw on, if the technology used to create Aaru and the hidden message in this signal share the same origin, there should be a way to map one onto the other.

Based on the clues we have so far, the process will likely be incredibly computationally intensive. We're fortunate Aaru has enough processing power to handle that. It's likely the only thing that does.

Hah, sounds like that old thing is saving the day once again! Where would Sumeru be without our King, huh?

I could not say.

You... You do this just to spite me, don't you?

*sigh* Ignore them. Guess we're in for another long trek to the desert, then. Let's go.

I didn't expect to be back here so soon, or for another crisis of such magnitude to be at our doorstep once again...

Don't worry! We'll get through this just like always! With wisdom on our side, there's nothing we can't do!

Hehe, thanks for the pep talk. Alright, let's have Aaru attempt to decipher this message. It's probably going to take a while...

Huh?

Is there a result already?

It's just like the exam questions in the Kshahrewar Darshan: the solution branches into an incredibly complex structure halfway through, only for all those branches to neatly converge in the end...

In this case, the branches have converged into an answer simpler than I could have ever imagined. A single word: "dreams."

Dreams? Isn't that your authority?

Yes. It all makes sense now...

The signal is trying to tell us something through dreams. Ready to find out what that is?

You got it.

Wait, but what does that even— Eh, whatever. Paimon's not gonna try to make sense of it. Just lead the way!

This is the desert, right? The beam of light is over there, but what about the tornados? Where did they go?

Nahida... Where are you?

Over here.

Waah! What in the— Wait! Look who it is! It's been ages since we last saw this cute little bunny.

The Akasha Terminals have been turned off, so I have no choice but to maintain the dreamscape from the outside. Plus, after I unleashed my power, the sound I've been hearing started to change.

I have to focus on deciphering the new message, so I'm afraid I can't accompany you through the dreamscape. We'll have to rely on our little friend here to keep in touch.

Alright. Well, Paimon really is happy to see this little one again. So, what's the plan?

The trial requires us to understand the topic of "wisdom," and access the innermost part of the Nail of Retribution.

Here, in this dreamscape, a path to success has emerged before our very eyes.

Ohhh! Because we don't have to worry about the Hallowing here! Or those pesky tornadoes! Wow, looks like dreams were the answer to our problems after all!

Surely it's not going to be that easy.

I doubt it. Regardless, let's face this test together.

What is this place? And how did we get in here? This is weird...

Hey, look! Doesn't this painting look familiar?

The Nail of Retribution has issued a new message. It now asks us to examine our past actions.

The current question it asks us to consider... is whether defeating Shouki no Kami was truly the only solution to that particular crisis back then.

Huh? What else were we supposed to do? Ignore the situation?

The Shouki no Kami drawn here has not yet been activated. The missing section in the middle represents countless alternate possibilities.

For example, what if we had discovered the plan to create Shouki no Kami sooner? Could we not have seized this power for ourselves?

Or had we been more cognizant of the threat, could we not have attempted to destroy the Electro Gnosis entirely?

Or, in an even more extreme approach, could we not have accepted the existence of Shouki no Kami, and infused him with the power of the Dendro Gnosis?

P—Paimon's never even thought about those possibilities before...

So, are you saying this thing that looks like it's missing a puzzle piece... represents those different alternatives?

Exactly. These are the possibilities the message presented to me. Once you fill in the missing piece, the dreamscape will respond in turn with the implications of your choice.

As I see it, these alternate solutions each fail to account for the whole picture in their own ways, but you might as well select one and see what happens.

There are so many options, but all of them turned out to be terrible!

Hehe, agreed.

The fact is, we could not have defeated him without the combined wisdom of everyone in Sumeru.

Being able to accomplish such a thing was no act of chance. It was because, all along, we chose to stand with the people.

Wait, look! Canned Knowledge!

Of course! It was the combined wisdom of all those people, plus all that combat experience we gained in the dreamscape... That's what allowed us to defeat the false god!

Huh? We're somewhere else now? Wait, we're... inside Apep's body, aren't we? Where the Heart of Oasis is...

Seems like there's only one fragment to choose this time.

It's a Fire Seed, isn't it? Huh, but it looks like there's more than one place to put it...

The structure of the puzzle has been flipped on its head, but the logic is the same... Meaning the answer could very well be hidden this time too.

Hmph, Paimon gets the feeling this nail is trying to trick us!

W—We're back again? This is so confusing. What is going on...

We made it out! Guess that means we chose right, huh...

Waaaaah! It flipped! It flipped! Careful, Traveler!

(This must be the inner part of the Nail of Retribution. But, Paimon and Traveler disappeared the moment I stepped inside.)

(Perhaps one of the stipulations of the trial is that one must face the Heavenly Principles alone...)

External target detected entering processing area.

Trial in progress. Subject: "Wisdom." Please submit your interpretation.

This question has been the subject of unending discussion throughout the history of Sumeru, and has sparked many heated debates.

I have always held to the same guiding principle:

"That dancing circle embodied everything about the universe. Life has always been the end, while it is wisdom that shall be the means."

...

Yet, it was not this conviction itself that led me here, but rather the countless choices this guiding principle inspired me to make.

To that end, the answer I'd like to put forth is as follows...

There is no single answer to the question of wisdom, because the very foundation of wisdom is disagreement and divergence. Our views on Teyvat differ, our very selves differ, and without those differences there can be no wisdom.

Ugh, where did we end up now? You okay, Traveler? You didn't get hurt, did you?

Right, that little bunny is gone... Paimon hasn't seen it since we fell down here...

Wh—What is this place? Doesn't that look like Esoptron? That thing we met in the Temple of Space?

I have no idea what's going on here...

(After traveling through so many spaces, I've completely lost my sense of direction. But there seem to be things here that have a connection to the Heavenly Principles. Does that mean...)

(We managed to reach the inner part of the nail after all? Am I supposed to complete the Trial of Usurpation?)

External target detected entering processing area.

Detected... Error... Error...

Unexpected target entering processing area. Attempting to connect to core database...

Core database not responding... Retrying... Core database not responding...

What's going on with this thing? It's bugging out...

Oh no! Did Paimon land on top of this thing when she fell down here!? What if she broke it!?

Activating default protocol. Loading, please wait...

Wel... Wel...

Well? Well what?

W—W...

Welcome... to the... world...

Look, there's one less sigil! That means we passed the trial, right? Great job, Nahida!

The Heavenly Principles didn't make things too difficult for me. In fact, our entire experience on the way to the Nail of Retribution was essentially one big hint.

Different choices, different paths... Exploring those divergences is what led us to this point.

In the end, though, delineating choices along the lines of right or wrong isn't important. What matters most is that life goes on and the beauty of this world remains.

All I had to do was put forth the version of "wisdom" I hold in my heart.

Huh, well at least the trial's over and done with!

I'm grateful you two were able to make it through unscathed as well! It's truly a relief.

When I couldn't find you after completing the trial, I wasn't sure our dreamscapes were even still connected.

All I could do was end my dream first, and check up on you in the real world. Luckily, you two must have woken up when I cut off the dreamscape, so it all worked out for the best.

Yeah, back in the dream, we looked for you everywhere, but we couldn't find you. Listening to you describe it, though, Paimon's pretty positive we were in the same place.

Perhaps the space within the Nail of Retribution operates differently from the outside world. That could explain why we weren't able to see each other despite being in the same place.

I imagine it's designed that way to prevent the person participating in the trial from cheating.

Geez, the Heavenly Principles wasn't taking any chances, huh! Clearly, they're capable of designing things that are super fancy and complicated, but then on the flip side, Esoptron can barely speak! It makes no sense.

Yeah, probably. But, what was so unexpected about that situation? The fact that we weren't gods?

Eh, whatever. Paimon can't make sense of it. We'll probably encounter Esoptron again at some point, so we can figure it out later.

Did my actions cut your conversation short? I'm sorry! I was just worried about the two of you.

It's no big deal! You did the right thing. Don't think we were gonna get much out of Esoptron, anyway.

Anyway, the most important thing is that we made it through the trial!

Yes, thank you so much for your help. Although this particular adventure was on the shorter end, it reminded me of everything we've been through together up to this point.

In Sumeru's greatest times of need, without fail, you're always by my side.

...Mm. Thank you.

This dream was a short one, yet it felt so very long indeed.

Thank you, little girl. It was very generous of you to escort us this entire way.

Oh, not at all! I was heading to the stadium myself anyway, so don't mention it!

Besides, you guys have been on such a long journey already. You were getting pretty tired, I could tell. Luckily, we had Toto to save the day, hehe.

Thank you for your assistance. Theoretically speaking, the best route from Nod-Krai to Natlan is via the Flower-Feather Clan. However, given the large size of our group, opting for a safer route was the superior choice.

That's why our journey took us such a long way. We are fortunate that the Children of Echoes are such a hospitable people.

I'm amazed by the sheer size of some of Natlan's wild animals. Toto gave me a real fright when I first saw him... I never would've guessed he was such a gentle creature.

And so strong, too. He carried our whole group on his back.

Well, he's only too happy to help! He loves to show off his strength. He recently recovered from an injury, so this was his first chance in a while to flex those big muscles.

As per the agreed plan, we simply need to register at the Speaker's Chamber, and then... One moment, detecting a familiar physiological reaction...

Hey! Look who it is! This is a surprise!

Teach! I didn't know you were coming to Natlan...

T—Teach? You know each other, too?

Yep! We met on their very first trip to Natlan, just after they arrived here. Since then, I've been learning everything I can from him. I've improved by leaps and bounds!

Hehe, Kachina's one of the friendliest people you could ever meet. We were lucky to run into her basically as soon as we crossed the border.

More recently, they lent me their assistance, after which we traveled to Nod-Krai together.

Huh, what a story... And what a dramatic reunion, too. No wonder you were so surprised to see each other.

Um... So Furina, what brings you to Natlan?

That's a long story... *sigh* But basically, you can thank that beam of light over there.

Fontaine doesn't have a Nail of Retribution, right?

Nope, and that makes Fontaine one of the few relatively safe places in the world at the moment... and a hotspot for refugees fleeing danger.

Of course, we're happy to accommodate them in the Court of Fontaine temporarily. But everyone knows the numbers will only increase...

Theoretically, Nod-Krai would also be an ideal destination for refugees. However, it lacks Fontaine's appeal due to several factors, including geography, politics, and public security.

Yep, and if they were to accept refugees, it'd be Snezhnayans they'd have to accommodate first.

Anyway, the Palais Mermonia issued a wide-reaching request for support. The Spina di Rosula were quick to get behind it, and Wriothesley mobilized the Wingalet.

As for me, Navia and Clorinde invited me to Poisson to help set things up and gather supplies. But just as things couldn't get any busier, we got thrown another curveball...

Suddenly, the Palais and the Adventurers' Guild were inundated with requests for help. All of them told the same story: Natlanese travelers in Fontaine showing signs of rapid memory loss.

Memory loss?

It's not just Fontaine. It's been happening to everyone who's left Natlan... Suddenly, they'll find they can't remember their tribe's name, or they'll forget how to use Phlogiston...

Exactly. And from what I understand, that's about as strange as someone living in Fontaine suddenly forgetting what the word "law" means.

Later, we heard from Granny Itztli that this is happening because the Wayob have suddenly stopped communicating with the shamans of the Masters of the Night-Wind.

Wait, that reminds Paimon... Mavuika once told us something similar. She said it was only safe for Natlanese people to leave their nation under the Wayob's protection — otherwise, they'd lose their memory and stuff.

Because Natlan's Ley Lines weren't connected to the rest of the world.

Recently, we received a letter from Natlan asking for help escorting any Natlanese citizens back to their home country.

Fortunately, the results are promising. Once they cross the border into Natlanese territory, their condition improves markedly.

Sounds like the Wayob theory is correct, then...

Having experienced memory issues myself previously, I am keenly aware of the dangers it poses.

At that time, many people in Natlan assisted me. This time, therefore, I was eager to volunteer and help escort them home.

Yeah, that's the other thing — it wasn't safe to send them back to Natlan on their own, considering their condition could deteriorate at any time. We faced the same issue with all the Natlanese in Poisson.

I knew the Spina di Rosula were already stretched thin, so I had a word with Navia. We agreed that I'd help to escort them back home.

It's a good thing you could help. Now, they just need to register, and then they can head home. Under the circumstances, they got very lucky.

Still, Paimon can't help but feel a little nervous about that huge beam of light. It's uncomfortably close to the stadium.

Let's ask Mavuika about it.

You should. The Pyro Archon will have a better picture of everything that's happening. Since she got back from Snezhnaya, she's been directing all the tribes on how to respond, getting us all to do our bit.

You can leave me to take care of our two visitors from abroad. I'll take them to see the stadium, then get them to the Weary Inn for a well-earned rest.

I'd originally planned to head back right away, but... after that long journey, especially the desert trek, I really am feeling quite tired...

Adequate rest will enable you to provide more effective assistance. Additionally, we reached our destination much earlier than anticipated. We need not worry about falling behind schedule.

Hehe, that's right! At least get a good meal in you before heading back. You gotta try our Tatacos and Blazed Meat Stew. They're the best!

Shrawr...

Huh? Ayo? What are you doing here?

I think he wants to take us to the Weary Inn — we should go. Bye for now, Teach!

See you again soon.

Good luck with everything.

Yup, bye then! Get a good rest.

Is this your pet tepetlisaur? It's so cute!

Actually, he's my buddy — he has his own family. Visitors often assume our saurian companions are pets, but we have quite a different relationship.

Shame. I wanted to pet his belly...

Oh, that's okay, go right ahead! I'm sure Ayo won't mind.

Ah, it's you! Welcome to the Speaker's Chamber.

Thanks... Huh, kinda comforting to see someone relaxed and smiling. We heard that things are pretty dire in Natlan.

Eh, it's all relative. Compared to the war against the Abyss, this is nothing.

My biggest concern right now is all the Natlanese citizens who are out of the country. They're making their way back here, but there's no way of guaranteeing their safety.

If their memory loss keeps getting worse and people aren't quick to spot it... They could end up forgetting that they're Natlanese at all.

True... And trying to find them would be like looking for a needle in a haystack.

We'll be better off trying to tackle the problem at the source. We need to make contact with the Lord of the Night and restore the efficacy of her protection.

Ah, so the issue is with the Lord of the Night?

Right. You've been to the Night Kingdom a number of times — I don't know if you'll recall, but that's where Natlan's Nail of Retribution is.

Ohhh... Yeah...

I share Citlali's view that, in all likelihood, the Hallowing is directly affecting the Lord of the Night, preventing her from being able to respond to us.

The fact that the stadium remains unaffected by the Hallowing despite its proximity to the beam of light tells me that the Lord of the Night is probably fending it off to the best of her ability.

But the consequence is that across the rest of Natlan, the Hallowing is showing up in an unpredictable pattern. It's like a leaky roof — you never quite know where the water will start dripping through next.

Right now, we have no way of knowing how bad of a state the Lord of the Night is in, or how much longer she can hold out.

No... That's awful...

Then what are we waiting for? Let's head to the Night Kingdom.

Y—Yeah... That's how we dealt with it last time, right? We should go right to her and check on her condition.

Except, she's the only reason Natlan ever had access to the Night Kingdom to begin with. The Lord of the Night built the bridge that connects her realm with ours.

But now, we can't contact her, and we've been cut off from her protection... naturally, that channel is closed too.

Well, it sounds like things are just about as bad as they can get. So what now? What the heck do we do?

The Night Kingdom's in crisis, and meanwhile we still have a whole trial to get through...

Haha... You sound just like Citlali when you get stressed.

I was getting ready to go pay her a visit before you showed up. You might as well come along. A couple days ago, she told me she'd landed on a potential solution. She's been trying it out.

No one understands the Night Kingdom better than her — she's the Great Shaman of the Masters of the Night-Wind, after all. I have faith in her.

Careful now. Granny Itztli doesn't appreciate it when people doubt her abilities — least of all when it's you.

Then again... Yeah, maybe if I pass along your comments word for word, it'll motivate her to rise to the challenge?

No way. Don't scare me like that.

Whew, Paimon just got goosebumps... Okay, point taken — Citlali always delivers the goods when the stakes are high. Paimon has faith in her too.

If I know her, she's probably sitting there waiting for us with the solution in hand. You'll see.

Cit—

This is IMPOSSIBLE...

I can't do this. Nope, nope, nope, I just can't...

What was I thinking, offering to take this on all by myself? What is wrong with me!? "Oh, look at me, I've landed on a potential solution." IDIOT! You don't have a CLUE what you're doing!

...Should I go ask Biram for help? ...No, I can't. I said I had a handle on it...

But this is so important. I can't afford to waste a single minute... Ugh, maybe I should ditch this and approach it some other way...

Oh, look at you, "Granny Itztli." What happened to you? Seeing a whole lot of "Granny" and not enough "Itztli" here. Hmph! Get it together, Granny!

Phew. That's it, I need some air.

...

...

...

Hi, Citlali. Everything going well...?

H—How long have you been there? And why is Traveler with you...

We just got here... I—It's all good...

Oh, it's "all good," is it? Admit it, you saw the whole thing, didn't you!?

We, uh... the door was open, so...

I needed some air, alright!? This is MY home, if I wanna open the door, I'll open it! And if I wanna roll around on the floor, I'll roll around on the floor! You got a problem with that!?

Calm down, Citlali. This was my bad — I should have let you know I was coming. I would have sent a letter ahead, but I didn't want to delay. We have limited time to work with.

I—It's fine... I'm not mad, it's just, the shock of...

...Wait here. Sit down wherever you like, I'm gonna go change real quick.

So sorry about that. I was having a moment. All better now.

I take it that you've hit a bit of a roadblock?

Yeah. I'm sorry, I made it sound like a done deal when we last spoke. Then, after poring over the scrolls, I realized that there were some pretty major gaps in my knowledge.

It's always been a classic point of discussion in the shamanic tradition. How do we establish a connection with the Night Kingdom without the Lord of the Night's help? Which makes sense, because back then the Lord of the Night was growing weaker and weaker.

The scrolls record many different approaches. I tried them, and sure enough, I got glimpses into the state the Night Kingdom's in.

So? How is it?

Terrible. Corrosion from the Hallowing everywhere. It's hard to say if this or the Abyss attack on the Ley Lines was worse.

At least you've established that you can see into the Night Kingdom just using your abilities. Surely that's just one step away from entering inside.

That's what I thought, too. But I tried, and it turns out that the spiritual energy required for that next step is on a whole other level.

Put it like this — if the Masters of the Night-Wind tribe was ten times the size, and we had ten Granny Itztli's all working together, even then, they'd only be able to create a stable-enough connection for one person to travel through.

Are you serious?

Yep, not exaggerating. That's the gap we're dealing with, and there's no getting around it. We don't have enough powerful shamans to make it work...

Do they all have to be shamans?

I remember when we fought Gosoythoth, I could hear everyone singing in the stadium...

Did that rely on the power of the Lord of the Night too?

No, that was due to the unified will of everyone involved. The Lord of the Night was mostly focused on fending off the interference from the Abyss.

If ordinary people's faith is strong enough and united enough, that can provide a limited amount of spiritual energy. But think just how many people were there back then — all that, and still it was only enough to send their voices through.

Sound travels quickly, which makes everything much easier. If the connection is unstable, it just means people's voices might get trapped inside. Nothing dangerous about that.

...What are you smiling about, Mavuika?

Wait, okay, don't tell me... you're not thinking...

You said the issue is creating a stable connection... What if all we need is an unstable connection?

No, that wouldn't — I was just giving an example, it's not just about the speed, it's... although... Hmm. Huh. Maybe?

One second. Let me try something.

You know what, that might actually work. We'd need to get all six tribes together, and as long their faith was as strong as last time, and we pick a close-enough starting point... You'd have to charge towards the stadium at top speed...

I think we could sustain the connection for up to...

...156 seconds.

Is that all?

It's enough.

I'll go check over my flamestrider. Citlali, contact Biram and have the shamans go to each tribe to prepare for the ceremony.

Traveler, Paimon, gonna need your help too. You can join in with any tribe you like.

With all the overseas Natlanese making their way back, I think now is our best chance.

Okay, but I have to warn you: If this doesn't work, you could get lost in the cracks between reality and the spirit realm, never to return.

Hehe, nothing like a little danger to get me amped up.

Hang in there, Mavuika.

Yup! Let's do this thing. Together, we'll take the Night Kingdom by storm!

Welcome! Are you here to join the Children of Echoes for the ceremony?

Actually, we haven't decided yet. Just taking a look around for now.

Sure thing. Well, we've got quite a crowd here already. Once things kick off, it'll be popping.

Xilonen's been away on business, and Kachina still isn't back from the stadium. I don't know if they'll make it, to be honest.

I hear the Pyro Archon plans on breaking into the Night Kingdom. Heh, yeah... that sure sounds like her style.

Her flame burns as strongly as ever. Long may it continue!

Agreed. We just need to have faith in her.

The Children of Echoes was the first tribe we ever visited. It's also where we met Kachina. Paimon loves it here — it's always buzzing with energy.

What do you think — shall we join 'em? Or did you wanna keep looking around?

Ah, welcome. I'd heard you were back in Natlan. I was gonna come find you, but then I heard the news.

All good! It was pretty sudden. We would've come to see you in any case.

Shucks... Well, thanks.

Hah! Look at big, bad Kinich suddenly getting all bashful, ngawww!

Sorry to subject you to this raving lunatic again.

"Subject"? "Subject"!? I grace them with my presence as a matter of courtesy! They have clearly come here on a pilgrimage to see the great K'uhul Ajaw!

Nuh-uh. If you hadn't popped up out of nowhere, Paimon would've forgotten all about you by now.

What!? Have you no respect? Don't think that just because he's the Tumaini, you can ride on his coattails!

You're one to talk! You wouldn't get away with your cocky attitude either if you didn't have Kinich to hide behind!

...Um, aren't you supposed to deny the accusation?

Oh, right, whoops... Uh, how dare you bring Paimon down to your level! Bad Ajaw! Pah!

Lemme give the lowdown. The Scions of the Canopy have gotten everything ready, and the ceremony should start soon.

I'm told that during the ceremony, our spirits will all be connected, and the Pyro Archon riding her flamestrider will appear in our minds' eyes, just like we're there watching her in real time.

Given that she's something of a stunt rider, it should be pretty exciting to watch.

Wow, really? Maybe Paimon had better close her eyes then. She might get dizzy otherwise...

Well, Traveler? Shall we join the Scions of the Canopy for the ceremony? Even if it means putting up with Ajaw...

Ahem! "Putting up with"!? More like basking in my glory!

Hey, it's Furina and Kachina. So this is where you ended up.

Hey Teach, hey Paimon! Yep, we heard about the ceremony, but it was a bit of a long way back to the Children of Echoes. The People of the Springs was easier to get to.

Plus, I've always been curious about the famous hot springs here. The shaman told us that the more people who join the ceremony, the better — even outlanders like me.

So, I figured that it would be a waste if I spent this time on the road. Better to stick around a little longer so I can help out.

Surintendante Chevalmarin is having a grand old time blowing bubbles in the hot springs, and Mademoiselle Crabaletta is playing with her too. I rarely see them having so much fun in Fontaine.

Hahaha, good for them! ...Wait, what about Gentilhomme Usher?

Coming in hot!

Ah, Mualani!

This guy was looking a little grouchy, but the koholasaurs are such a friendly bunch, they thought he needed some cheering up. So they whisked him away to play.

I was helping with preparations for the ceremony, when I noticed five or six koholasaurs chasing him across the water. So, I swooped in to rescue him.

Goodness me. Thank you so much, I was wondering where he'd disappeared to...

...

Hehe, that's the People of the Springs for ya. Always looking to have some fun in the sun. Always gets you in a chilled-out mood.

I always used to find it strange that here, in the middle of the nation of war, you have this place that seems like some sort of holiday resort.

Only later did I come to appreciate that it's actually a testament to their remarkable outlook on life.

Hehe, you flatter us. We just don't see the point in being miserable all the time.

If we ever get the chance, I'll take you to an actual holiday resort some time. You'll get along great with Asha and the gang.

Anyway, let's focus on the ceremony for now. Things will be kicking off soon. Will you be joining us?

Traveler, what do you say? You wanna stick around here?

Hey, look who it is.

Hey, Chasca. And hey, Ineffa! There you are.

Yes, here I am. When I heard the news, I wanted to select an appropriate tribe to join as well. My analysis concluded that the Flower-Feather Clan was my best option.

I am unsure whether the basis for my conclusion was a sense of belonging or not. To me, the Clink-Clank Krumkake Craftshop is where I call home.

You don't really have to choose one or the other. I was adopted by qucusaurs as a kid, and only settled in the Flower-Feather Clan when I was older.

To me, both are equally important. Both are family. We've been through so much together...

The key is how important the memories are to you, and whether that place gives you that warmth that only home can bring.

I see... From my perspective, those are two very different things — one has to do with cognition, the other with emotion. But when you say "warmth"... Yes, maybe it's something similar to that.

Hehe, great. Ah, every time Paimon looks out from the Flower-Feather Clan at the mountains and the clouds, it always makes her feel so peaceful...

This sure would be a nice place to spend the ceremony. What do you think, Traveler?

Good, you got the message. We need to double-check that everything's set up right for the ceremony — it's crucial that we get it right first time, so there's no margin for error...

Oh, it's you two. Good timing — come help me out.

Uh... with what?

You're here for the ceremony, right? Mavuika told you to pick a tribe, and you chose the Masters of the Night-Wind...

Actually, we're still deciding. For now, we're just doing the rounds and saying hey to all our friends.

You seem busy. We don't want to intrude...

A little busy, yeah. It's fine — take a seat for now. I'm almost finished setting up, I just need...

Ororon! Ororon!

He just left. Said he suddenly remembered he has something important to do.

What could possibly be more important than this!? Let me guess — the vegetables need watering? The aphids got heatstroke? He couldn't have picked a worse time!

Ifa, how come you aren't at the Flower-Feather Clan?

I was here holding a clinic. As I'm sure you know, the Wayob are ill, so a lot of iktomisaurs have been suffering.

The most I can do is give them something to manage the symptoms. I can't cure their condition — only Granny Itztli's ceremony and the Pyro Archon's power can address that.

You hear that? What a charmer. You should teach Ororon your way with words.

So, uhh... Sh—Shall we stay here, or...?

In all seriousness, I'll be personally hosting the ceremony here, so you couldn't be in better hands. I'll make sure everyone's spiritual energy is guided safely to where it needs to be.

Also, Gramps, I made some fresh radish soup specially for you. The radishes were blessed by the Wayob, so they'll give a good boost to your spiritual energy.

...Dude, dude. Not now...

What's wrong?

I heard that! Get your butt over here right now, mister, and don't you ever bail on me like that again!

Oh, it's Tumaini and Paimon. Hello!

Oh, great! Hehe, I didn't think you'd make it all the way out to the Collective of Plenty this time.

Oh, so you'd heard we were in Natlan?

Yep, and the moment Varesa heard the news, she jumped up, said she had to go and see you, and took off like a hurricane.

Then we got word from the stadium about the ceremony, and she came racing back.

Hehe, I didn't have much choice. I was kinda bummed out at first. I thought I wouldn't get the chance to see you before you left.

Oh, yeah? Well, gimme one second — I'll go fetch some for you!

Hold your horses, Varesa. First things first. The ceremony will be starting any minute.

Ohh, right, yeah. Silly me, I got too excited.

It's all good! It's reassuring to see you're keeping your spirits up.

They seem pretty stoked to see us! Shall we join them for the ceremony? What do you say?

(The ceremony's started — every second counts. Here I go, gotta work up as much speed as possible.)

Phew, still in one piece. You can always count on Xilonen's build quality.

...Look at this place. It's a mess, just like Citlali said. Never thought I'd see a sight like this again after the war with the Abyss.

Lord of the Night, can you hear me?

Lord of the Night, it's me, Mavuika.

...

M—Mavuika...

Rest your voice — I know where you are now. Hold on.

I've brought you the Sacred Flame. Connecting the two of you should help alleviate the effects of the Hallowing, at least for now.

...Thank you.

Well? Any better?

Yes, it was like... a nightmare. The annihilation of the angels, all over again...

It's alright, you don't have to face it alone anymore. I understand your pain. It's not just the physical pain — the loneliness is just as hard to bear.

How did you make it here? The connections... they were all cut off.

I must conserve my strength, or I will not last much longer. The Holy Soil phenomenon is spreading ever faster. There is only so much I can do for you.

Natlan was only able to defeat the Abyss and change the rules of death thanks to your protection and to the curse shouldered by the great hero, Capitano.

Now that the war is over, it's our turn to reach out and connect with you.

You once were an angel, but now... you're one of us. You're part of Natlan. In fact, you've been one of us for a long, long time.

Thank you... Now, I finally understand why you cherish this world so deeply... why you are so determined to live on.

Over thousands of years, countless lives have inscribed many an epic tale. I could not bear to see it all reduced to nothing.

Yeah. That's why I'm here.

I will tell the Heavenly Principles that the people of Natlan must live to see a new day.

External target detected entering processing area.

Trial in progress. Subject: "War." Please submit your interpretation.

Since you're connected to Natlan's Ley Lines, you must be aware of our ancient names and the stories behind each one.

War is the collective tale told by all these ancient names. They are what we have left to show for the painful sacrifices we made. They're our most priceless treasure.

Why? Because we know all too well that only the victors have the right to declare the meaning of the war. My very life is a gift, given to me by the heroes who fought in that war.

And so, we must win at any cost... But how great that cost is. For everything we gain, we expend, and we part with, much more.

We are forced to say farewell to friends, family, and our saurian companions — even to the heavens and the earth. All this is a heavy price to pay.

But we are proud of the fact that our ancient names get passed down over the generations. Despite the circumstances in which we find ourselves, the people of Natlan strive relentlessly to create something new.

These names represent our civilization, our aspiration as a people. Natlan is ready to take the next step, knowing full well what it will cost.

Perhaps another war awaits us in the future. Perhaps that war is here and now, as you and I confront each other in this very moment.

As we look back across history, and turn to examine the present, it is not I who have a decision to make. It is you.

(I guess that went well. The symbol representing the trial has disappeared, meaning the Heavenly Principles accepted my answer. But this isn't over yet.)

(As always, regardless of the outcome, we have to make a record of history, adding to the knowledge passed down between Pyro Archons over the generations... Huh? What's that?)

(Hmm... Did the Hallowing affect the records when the Sacred Flame connected with the Lord of the Night?)

(That's not good... Luckily, I can restore the missing information from my own memory. But first, I should check how much information was affected...)

(What the...?)

(..."Allogene's"? But... I don't understand...)

Oh, everyone's here already... Wait, what? Furina? Where's Neuvillette?

*sigh* I guess he suspected what might happen here, and being a dragon, he had his misgivings about showing up in person.

Of course. I mean, look — that's an invitation from the heavens, right in front of us.

Exactly, so Neuvillette made the right call. Who knows what kind of crazy defense systems or punishments might be triggered if a dragon came strolling through the front door.

He reached out to me. Apparently, even though I stopped playing the Hydro Archon ages ago, he still thought I'd be the better candidate.

I couldn't really say no — I mean, if not me, then who else? This terrain, though — absolutely horrendous. Can't imagine trying to walk it. I'm lucky Mavuika gave me a lift.

Huh? Did Mavuika pick you up halfway, or something?

Nope, I brought her the whole way. Furina was in Natlan anyway, so it made sense to travel together.

So, how was your white-knuckle ride on the flamestrider? Live up to the hype?

It most certainly did. White-knuckle is right... I wouldn't have objected to a gentler take-off when we started flying, though.

Hahaha, okay, got it. I'll know for next time.

Y'know, I'd heard of Chenyu Vale's stunning scenery before, but seeing it for myself... it's even more beautiful than I imagined.

Uh... How are you in the mood to admire the scenery right now? Aren't you nervous?

Haha, there's nothing to be nervous about. Everything's gone pretty smoothly so far, hasn't it? Every nation's done an admirable job.

When the conscience is clear, the mind does not succumb to panic.

Hehe, even I'm feeling more confident with you two here to steel our nerves.

Varka didn't come along this time?

He's still busy dealing with the fallout of the Hallowing. It might've stopped spreading, but that doesn't mean it's gone away.

He also said that since the fate of the world hangs in the balance, the Seven Archons are now our most suitable representatives.

I couldn't agree more. If Rex Lapis were still with us, he would without question be best placed to represent Liyue.

Hey now, don't underestimate yourself. Being a god is one thing, but for a human being like you to step up and fill the boots of a god? That's what I call impressive.

You flatter me. My personal contribution to the administration of Liyue is but one piece in a large puzzle. We rely on a group effort, from planning to execution.

Guessing Zhongli doesn't plan on showing up, then...

It can only mean that he trusts and respects Ningguang.

True. Anyway, he'll always be sure to step in when he's really needed — like during the trial.

Since all nations are accounted for, I suggest we end the pleasantries here and head off at once.

Beyond that door is most likely the Heavenly Principles' domain. Let's hope they're willing to reverse the damage that has already been done by the Hallowing...

Indeed. We shall see what we are up against, and make our case. Let's go.

This must be—

Invitees detected. Attempting to connect to the central database.

No response. Activating default mode.

Welcome to the "Divine Throne," Celestia's integrated computational array.

Celestia... We actually made it to Celestia...

Proceeding to explain the reason for inviting you here: Your kind has committed a transgression for which there is no pardon. The default program requires Teyvat to be reset.

Life, civilization, and administrators are to be restored to their initial states to maintain the stability of Teyvat.

However, in completing the trials, you have proven your value. The Holy Soil phenomenon has therefore been suspended.

You have distinguished yourselves and performed admirably. This deserves recognition.

I'm pretty surprised you're willing to judge us fairly after all this ruckus.

Not every civilization that must be destroyed is a failed civilization. When civilization goes astray, it also reflects database and planning insufficiencies.

So long as you are sufficiently distinguished, you are of value to me.

When we first came into contact at the Temple of Space, I asked why you wished to undertake these trials and save the world.

I now have your answer, and with the trials complete, I shall grant you a reward that best meets your terms.

In these final 42 days, each of you is to select a single Vision bearer — or "allogene," as they are also known — whom you deem to be most worthy of preservation.

They shall ascend to Celestia as the final record of this civilization.

(...Final record...?)

What kind of reward is that!? You... So you never had any intention of letting us survive!?

I reiterate: Not every civilization that must be destroyed is a failed civilization. Likewise, a civilization that has proven its value must still be destroyed.

There is no contradiction.

What I told you was that I love this world because of all the friends I've made and the precious memories it's given me.

Teyvat is essential to me — it's like a second home. You've flagrantly misrepresented my terms! How dare you!

I do not understand. You expressed that you wished to protect Teyvat because of the wonderful things it has given you, so I have granted you the chance to preserve the very best of it.

As "Vectors of Fate," they shall guide the next cycle of civilization toward a better future. This is the definition of transcending and attaining immortality.

It is also the highest calling of the allogenes, and their greatest value to Teyvat.

Then I have to ask... Where are the allogenes who ascended to Celestia in the past? Where is Vennessa right now, for instance?

Please wait, retrieving data... Match found, location identified. Loading display program.

The flashing light marks the "Disembodied Divinesoul Consciousness, Essentialpersonality Self, and Mind Storagememory Core."

Or, more simply, where Vennessa is stored.

Stored!? How can you put people in storage like they're inanimate objects!?

The form life takes is insignificant. An allogene's foremost duty is to guide fate. They need only devote themselves to that task.

So that's what becomes of the allogenes...

If you find the arrogation of living beings to be so distasteful, why not delineate Fate as you see fit? Why give the allogenes any control over the variables at all?

This is the optimal result arrived at through immensely complex and extremely lengthy calculations.

Only humans created according to these rules can most closely model humanity as recorded in the database.

The world in which I was born is gone, and I cannot receive information from beyond. Progress is possible only by feeding the evolution of civilization back into the system.

Put simply, this is the only system that can allow you to become better and better over time.

So we're nothing more than fodder to you? That's what you're saying?

In extreme cases, that is correct. Although "fuel" would be a more accurate descriptor.

I do not believe this warrants resentment. The truth may appear somewhat cruel, but I have been lenient enough. My gaze extends far beyond you alone.

With so many samples of civilization to draw on, have you never considered that rebellion may be inevitable?

Yeah! After everything you've said, you can bet we're gonna fight back tooth and nail to the bitter end!

The fate of the world should not be yours to decide.

Different perspectives yield different conclusions. You have the freedom to imagine what you will and act as you choose.

Only 42 days remain. After that, true annihilation shall descend.

Celestia welcomes you.

There is no point staying here. This entity cannot be reasoned with.

...All this time, Paimon thought being an allogene was a good thing. You know, ascend to Celestia, become a god... It's everyone's dream.

That's what everyone thought until now. *sigh*... I guess this confirms the truth. What an unbelievable secret.

In the past, Celestia never would've wanted the civilizations of the world below to find out what happens up there. But this time, it told us the truth...

As much as I hate to say this... I suppose that, from its perspective, it is allowing us to die with some sort of dignity...

Now I think about it, when I was dealing with Natlan's trial, the Hallowing encroached on the Sacred Flame and released some of the sealed information.

Among that information was that verse we've chanted since ancient times:

"If the intention yet remains, achieved the allogene's truth he has."

I always assumed that verse had something to do with our war against the Abyss. Who would've thought it was referring to the secret of allogenes.

Allogenes are turned to fuel that drives the world in a better direction...

The biggest difference between that and Natlan's everlasting flame is that the Heavenly Principles' grand vision for the future doesn't have any place in it for us... the people living in the here and now.

I think I speak for us all when I say, the Heavenly Principles' proposal is completely unacceptable.

Absolutely. Paimon took the words right out of my mouth back there.

Oh... Really? Paimon was just livid, that's all... And still is, obviously!

I can't believe we only have 42 days left... As if one apocalyptic prophecy wasn't enough for one lifetime...

Furina... We've beaten prophecy once before. We can do it again.

Mm... Sorry, yeah, it's just all a little... Mm.

Following the will of heaven can only lead us to a dead end. In Celestia's eyes, we are but fuel... samples... test subjects in a sandbox.

Whatever hopes of peace may have remained in any of our hearts have surely been crushed today. Our sole remaining option is to fight until our last breath.

Agreed.

Definitely.

There's no other way.

For Rex Lapis. We cannot let him down.

Yeah. We have to find a way through this.

Allogenes should get to define themselves in their own terms.

But we still don't know where the Pyro Gnosis is...

P—Paimon...

Agh, sorry... Paimon's so overwhelmed, it just slipped out... Probably the worst idea to bring it up now, when everyone's already at breaking point...

Don't apologize. You only said what we were all thinking. There's no point skirting around the issue — we have to face it, together.

Alright, well... let's go search for that Gnosis, then. We'll scour every inch of Teyvat if we have to. We're all in the same boat now.

You're right. As long as we all stick together, Paimon's confident that... that... Nope, forget it — can't fake it. Paimon's not feeling confident at all right now. She's losing her mind with anxiety...

...Hmm? What's on your mind?

I have already traveled through this world once. Once you reach the end of your journey as I did, you will see for yourself the true nature of this world.

(All of a sudden, Teyvat is to me what Khaenri'ah is to her...)

(I understand now, Lumine. What a lonely thing it would be if memories were all that was left of this world...)

Hey look, it's Kaeya. Hey! Kaeya!

Ah, if it isn't the Honorary Knight and Paimon. Finally, the good news we've been desperately waiting for... Better late than never.

Uhh... You say that, but you don't seem bothered in the slightest...

Well, someone in Mondstadt has to stay chipper. Imagine what a gloomy place it would be without me to keep people's spirits up.

Fortunately for us, the Skyfrost Nail is at the very top of Dragonspine. The Hallowing started far enough away from the city to give us time to respond.

The Knights of Favonius have been hard at work scouting, moving resources, fending off the monsters, and drafting an evacuation plan.

If the Hallowing spreads too quickly, we may need to evacuate the whole of Mondstadt City up north to Dornman Port. It would be a big operation.

Have there been any casualties?

A few. They're being well looked after. But there's a growing atmosphere of unease in the city — the wind in Mondstadt has been very turbulent ever since the Hallowing began.

You can hear the windmills creaking under the strain. It was like that during the Stormterror crisis too, so to a lot of people, it's a bad omen.

Of course, it'd be a blessing if this was just another dragon attack... No dragon could contend with our Honorary Knight these days, I'm sure.

Ugh. Trust you to crack jokes even at a time like this.

Does the Grand Master have a plan of action?

He's working on it, now that we know what this "trial" business is about. We're lucky that Liyue got to the bottom of it. It's quite incredible, really. No one else had any idea where to begin.

Liyue's known for having reclusive talents who come out of the woodwork in a crisis, but even so, this was an extraordinary feat... Who could this mystery individual possibly be, and just how powerful are they?

Uh... Hehe... Yeah, heh, who knows...

Well anyway, I suppose they're entitled to their mystique. Anyone capable of operating at that level surely has their reasons for doing so anonymously, should they so choose.

Sorry, getting off topic. Varka should be at our headquarters at the moment. If you head over now, you should be in time to help out.

Great, seems like we got here just in time! Let's go!

Ah, Honorary Knight. It's been a while.

We're not interrupting anything, are we? It looked like you guys were having a serious discussion.

Not at all! Look at us back together again! It's like a reunion! We should crack open a bottle of wine to commemorate the occasion.

That's a splendid idea! I was just thinking it was about time we broke for refreshments. Nicole, be a dear and use your angel magic to pluck a bottle from Elzer's carriage, would you? A twenty-year-old vintage will do, I think.

Why do I have to do it? You could just as easily use your magic.

Ahem, you're still missing something... My permission. Even though we moved our stock to Mondstadt City, those bottles of wine still belong to me.

Hahaha, leave it to the Honorary Knight to turn our serious meeting into a light-hearted affair!

Don't blame this on us!

Maybe we should get back on track...?

Agreed. This is a serious situation. We need to figure out the proper method to access the innermost part of the Skyfrost Nail.

According to the intel from Liyue, entering the Skyfrost Nail is part of the trial.

Before we take action, we need to come up with an answer that has the highest chance of being approved by the Heavenly Principles.

And this answer has something to do with "freedom"... Hmph, all-powerful being or not, the Heavenly Principles doesn't seem to be the most inspired riddle-master.

Because, to them, this is a charitable gesture. It is not meant to educate. It is not meant to serve as guidance, so there will be no hints.

*sigh* If only they weren't so particular. If the method didn't matter, Dvalin could deliver someone straight to the center of the nail, and I wouldn't even need to lift a finger.

Hehe, well at the very least, you two are able to air everything out in the open now. That counts as a form of freedom, right?

Do you have any idea how to proceed, Venti?

Well, I racked my brains on my way back, and I did come up with one idea. But after giving it some thought, I don't think I should reveal it just yet.

I was in a deep slumber for such a long time. I can't... and I shouldn't be the one to represent Mondstadt in this moment. At least, not yet.

And who knows? If we compare notes when all is said and done, and it turns out we came up with the same answer, that's even better.

Hahaha, I get it. It's like comparing answers after an exam. If they match, it makes it all the more likely we both stumbled upon the right one.

...Understood.

Well, if we mere mortals are expected to be able to solve this, then at least we can count on one thing... The answer shouldn't be that complicated.

E—Excuse me, everyone!

Amber? Is something wrong?

I was just near Dragonspine, checking the spread of the Hallowing, and I noticed a bunch of hilichurls building fortifications in the area!

I'm worried they're going to attack the city like before. But with everyone so busy, we barely have the numbers to defend ourselves...

Don't worry, Amber. I'll send reinforcements to investigate right away.

Well, Traveler? What say you we go check it out together?

Huh? You're actually volunteering to do work?

Yep! After all, I'm the one who has a potential solution to our riddle but refuses to reveal it. I imagine I don't have a lot of fans in this room at the moment...

Not at all! None of us think that way!

Haha, that's very kind of you, Acting Grand Master. Still, I think I'd like to get some air, give you all some space to get those creative juices flowing!

Makes sense to me...

Splendid! Then, no need to worry about the situation on Dragonspine, Varka. The Honorary Knight and I have got it covered. We'll be right back.

Alright, be careful out there, and make sure to reach out if you need backup.

It's such a relief to have your help! I still have more scouting to do, so I'll see you all later!

Apologies, but the Knights of Favonius has closed off access to this area. As you can see, the Hallowing is spreading, and the Dragonspine region is highly dangerous at the moment.

And the hilichurls all seem to be congregating here, right? Yeah, we know. We're here under orders from the Grand Master to investigate the situation.

I see! Amber safely delivered the message, then.

In that case... Yes, the hilichurls are building fortifications in the area, and they seem to be more agitated than usual... We don't know what they're planning, but at least so far, there's been no indication they plan to advance in this direction.

Do be careful during your investigation, though. If the hilichurls make a move, those of us stationed here will respond immediately.

Much appreciated! Sounds like we're in good hands. C'mon, let's get a closer look.

Yep, a whole bunch of hilichurls blocking the road... What's the plan?

I don't think they've noticed us.

I'd prefer to keep it that way. Let's fly over instead.

Fly? Oh, right, with the wind glider. Alright! Show us what you've got, Tone-Deaf Bard!

Notice anything?

It's weird. Their target doesn't seem to be Mondstadt City after all. Their fortifications are all facing Dragonspine. Huh, almost like... they're guarding against something...

Plus, they should have spotted us while we were flying overhead, but they didn't even react. Normally, we would've had to dodge a couple arrows at least...

Facing Dragonspine... Could it be because of the Skyfrost Nail?

But what does that have to do with them? And why now? That thing has been there for ages...

...It's the wind.

It was faint, but I heard it at the foot of the mountain... dissonant voices upon the wind. Here, they're even clearer.

If you focus, I bet you could hear them too, Traveler.

(Voices upon the wind... Hmm...)

*sob*... *sob*...

Help me!

My... my child...!

Run! Get away from the Nail of Retribution!

We're done for... done for...

(Whoa...!)

What is it? You look pale as a sheet! What did you hear?

Screams, wailing, weeping... The final moments of people staring judgement day in the face...

Those voices likely belonged to the people of Sal Vindagnyr, an ancient civilization that once existed in this place. It was destroyed thousands of years ago.

We've heard that name before... But, why are you hearing those voices all of a sudden? Like you said, it's been ages since those people lived here.

The power being unleashed from the Skyfrost Nail is attempting to reset the world. As a result, some of the information recorded in the Ley Lines is leaking out.

This information can manifest in many forms... As anguished voices on the wind, or even as the full-fledged monsters we're facing.

This place used to be a verdant paradise. It was the fall of the Skyfrost Nail that changed the environment and buried all vestiges of Sal Vindagnyr beneath snow and ice.

Although these hilichurls have no connection to that civilization, or its destruction, I think they're gathering here in response to those voices.

The destruction of a homeland, the collapse of a civilization... I imagine those memories struck a chord with them on a deeply visceral level.

Because of... Khaenri'ah?

Exactly. It was a different era, a different civilization, but the fact remains... They were once human, too.

Of course, their wits are only a fraction of what they once were. Hearing those voices, they probably thought the cataclysm was coming all over again, and on an instinctual level, they needed to do whatever they could to protect themselves.

Well, that explains the fortifications... *sigh* Not that they would make much of a difference...

Regardless, at least we know these hilichurls aren't a threat to Mondstadt.

We call them "monsters," but as our own day of judgement approaches, are we not exactly in the position they once were? It's tragic all around.

And if we don't finish these trials soon, we're also gonna be...

Your answer to the trial... Will you share it with me?

Actually, I'd like to hear your answer first. In the eyes of the Heavenly Principles, what do you think best symbolizes "freedom"?

Freedom...

I want to say the wind. But in this place, all I hear in the wind is anguish and grief... If this is the true face of freedom, surely that paints far too tragic a picture?

Yeah! Freedom is supposed to be a good thing! It's Paimon's favorite part about Mondstadt!

Mine as well.

And yet, I fear true freedom hasn't existed in Teyvat for a long time.

Huh?

What do you mean?

I'm sure you've heard from the Tsaritsa that all the rules of this world are curses. The "freedom" we all aspire to is no exception.

"What does freedom really mean, when demanded of you by a god?"

So that's why you played your cards close to your chest in that meeting...

If I revealed to them the true nature of the "freedom" that exists in this world, I figured it would only dampen their spirits... especially Jean's. She's so earnest.

Makes sense... That was actually pretty thoughtful of you, not giving them that burden. For once, you weren't so tone-deaf after all...

Hehe, I'll take that as a compliment.

At first, all I wanted was to protect them, but..

Once I started to live among them as Venti and pass the days by their side, I started to sense something new being born in Mondstadt.

I couldn't help but wonder... How do they view freedom? Is their definition different than mine?

So, when it comes to this question of “freedom" we've been tasked with, I firmly believe the answer lies with the people, not with me. I'm sure you have faith in them too, don't you?

Of course.

You bet! You'll never convince Paimon that the people of Mondstadt don't have true freedom. They live and breathe it!

And if the Heavenly Principles doesn't think so, it must be because their understanding of freedom is wrong, not the other way around!

Hehe, I appreciate that. And you know what, Paimon? You took the words right out of my mouth.

Alright, we investigated the situation on Dragonspine, and everyone can rest assured: The hilichurls pose no threat to Mondstadt.

Great! That's one less fire for us to put out! Also, you're back just in time. We thought long and hard, really racked our brains... I'm talking full on mental gymnastics... and I do believe we've come up with an answer to our little riddle.

It wasn't that dramatic. The answer basically just presented itself.

Really killing the suspense here, but whatever, I'll just spit it out. Ahem...

What is freedom if not the wind, right? So I plan to let the turbulent air currents near Dragonspine fly me right up to the Skyfrost Nail on my wind glider.

Leaving it all up to the wind, huh... Not bad. How did you come up with that idea, might I ask?

It's simple, really. To all of us in Mondstadt, the wind is a blessing, one that's been by our side for as long as we can remember.

A... blessing?

In all the stories I grew up hearing, we were always taught that Mondstadt wouldn't exist without the wind. The stories sing its praises profusely.

Whenever I feel lost, I like to sit in the garden near the Knights of Favonius Headquarters and feel the breeze against my skin. In those moments, the wind feels like the gentle guidance of our god.

The end of the world is nigh. Things are about as bad as they can get. We can panic, we can despair, we can feel like there's nowhere to turn... But when the going gets tough, what do we always say?

"Still, the winds change direction."

"Someday, they will blow towards a brighter future."

In times like these, willpower is a force stronger than any magic.

Of course, if Varka's glider falls apart or some other emergency occurs, I'll find a way to help.

Haha, you kinda took the wind out of my sails there a bit, but I suppose that's fair. I'm not one-hundred-percent certain this is gonna work, either...

Haha, a blessing... I like the sound of that.

Well then... You have my blessing as well.

Haha, glad to hear it. Well, no sense kicking this can down the road any further. I'm gonna head out.

I'll come with you. I'm sure you could use a few more "blessings" along the way, right? Besides, I rather think this historic moment deserves to be commemorated in a song.

This spot should do the trick. The wind's just right. All I need to do is jump, and let the current do the rest.

So you might as well come out with it, already. I know you didn't follow me all the way out here just to write a song...

Hm, let me tell you a story. Once upon a time, long, long ago, Mondstadt was home to an Anemo spirit, who roamed free without a care in the world.

He went wherever the wind took him, and over time, he crossed paths with many humans, and eventually became their friend.

He fought alongside them and even helped them overthrow Decarabian himself. What profound love he must have had for humanity, to decide to make this place his home.

Back then, he was just like you... He also thought of the wind as a blessing.

Hahaha, I'm sensing a "but" in there somewhere...

But then... He learned many truths he would have been better off never knowing, encountered gods far more powerful than he, and with each passing day, there was more and more to weigh on his mind...

Before he knew it, ages had passed since he last indulged in his favorite pastime: drifting on the wind, letting it take him where it wills.

His favorite pastime... Right. Kinda seems like something he feels duty-bound to do, but that's just me...

The two are not so different. Did you become Grand Master because you wanted to? Or because of a sense of duty?

Haha, I get your point.

I, Grand Master Varka of the Knights of Favonius, would do anything for Mondstadt. Even if it means plunging myself headfirst into mortal danger, I wouldn't hesitate for a second.

But if Lord Barbatos and I share the same desire, who am I to hold him back? Besides... it can't be done. You can't put the wind on a leash.

You make it sound like I was about to scoot off ahead and leave you in the dust.

Hahaha, your words, not mine!

...But seriously. Without the freedom you brought us, Mondstadt would not be the place it is today.

Lord Barbatos, I know how high the stakes are. I will stand guard here until you safely return.

And I will bring your answer, and the witness I have borne over the centuries, before the Heavenly Principles.

External target detected entering processing area.

Trial in progress. Subject: "Freedom." Please submit your interpretation.

I do not tell of freedom's truth in song. Neither the freedom that I bestow upon living beings nor the freedom you have granted me is freedom in the truest sense.

How tragic it is that nowhere in this world you have so painstakingly created can true freedom be permitted to take root.

Is this how you wish things to be? Or do you not care?

And yet, despite everything, freedom has begun to blossom in this world. It's happening right here, in Mondstadt.

There is no absolute freedom for all to enjoy. True freedom comes at the cost of the few who sacrifice theirs, that others might have it.

But you already thought of that, didn't you? That's why part of your plan involved the Anemo Archon, Barbatos, implementing the rules... Or rather, you cursed him with that role.

And so, these are the words that I will commit to song:

"Still, the winds change direction."

"Someday, they will blow towards a brighter future."

"Take my blessings and live leisurely from this day onward."

Hmm? What's everyone doing here?

You didn't go shouting it from the hilltops, did you? I plan to go right back to being a carefree bard now that this is over.

So you were the one who took the trial in the end! Great job, Tone-Deaf Bard!

Did it all go smoothly?

Yup, way easier than I expected. All it did was ask me a question. Liyue's intel was on point.

Thank goodness. What a relief.

Looks like I won't have to move Klee to her new place right away. I'll tell Barbie not to expect us for a few more days.

Oh, you're gonna move in with Barbeloth? I thought you meant Dornman Port!

As much as my darling daughter would love to stay in Mondstadt, I have to be a responsible mother and prepare for the worst.

I understand. Even with the trial over, there are still monsters appearing everywhere. We can't be too careful.

I take it you'll be moving on?

You bet. We at least need to check how the others are getting along. But you know... With one successful trial experience behind us, Paimon's feeling much more confident about the others.

Me too. If nothing else, we're one step closer to solving this. And I think that deserves a drink in celebration, don't you?

Once this crisis is well and truly behind us, I'll host those celebrations myself.

Hahaha, well then, thanks in advance for your great generosity, Master Diluc.

Keep up the good work, everyone! One more push. Let's put this chaos to rest for good!