Witch's Homework: Of This World

Hey, Durin! So this is where you've been!

Oh, Nhà Lữ Hành, Paimon. What are you doing here?

Hehe, the real question is, what are you doing cooped up in here reading a book? The weather's nice out there, y'know?

Oh. Well, ever since I've had more chances to interact with the people of Mondstadt, I've been having trouble telling when people are joking.

For example, I saw a beautiful flower the last time I was at the florist. So, I told the shopkeeper, and she said:

"Hehe, if you like these weeds so much, you should add some Mint and Sweet Flowers, and make it a bouquet."

So I did as she said. But when I showed her the finished bouquet, she gave me a frankly terrifying look...

Later, Albedo opined that this happened because I have trouble understanding the "meaning behind words."

So, after I learned the Mondstadt script, he told me I could come here and read.

I was born from a storybook, so I felt that these books might be able to teach me more about the "rules" of this world.

And, well, I guess I lost track of time... So, um, did you guys need something?

Friends do often drop by just to say hi, Durin.

Oh, I see. That's another rule learned, then.

Yep! That said, we did have business we needed to discuss, right?

Yeah, we have a message to pass along from Rhinedottir.

Oh... It... It's from Aunt Rhinedottir?

Are you okay?

No, I... I'm just surprised. Rhinedottir is my mom's friend... And the mother of the dragon that once existed in my stead.

I supplanted him — took the fate that should have been his.

So, if she dislikes me... Well, I'm not sure what I'd do.

I don't think she holds it against you.

Yeah! We're here for you! But, seriously, Paimon doesn't think it's anything bad.

That does make me feel better.

Well, I guess I should open it...

Ahhh! Where are we? Did this stupid dictionary transport us to some weird place again?

My mom's scent... I sense it here.

Whoa, here comes a strange cat!

We meet again, Sebas.

Ahem. I have a message to deliver on Master Rhinedottir's behalf.

Ahem...

Well, this is familiar.

Ahem. I have a message to deliver on Master Rhinedottir's behalf.

Ahem...

"This is the first time we're meeting, so I'm not sure how to address you. But since you're M's child, I suppose I'll stick with 'Mini Durin.'"

"Though you appear smaller than the Durin that came before you, that same strength flows through your veins — not a drop less."

"He was a child of 'Humus,' an incomplete creation. Thus, he lacked the 'will' to control his own strength."

"Yet this power was beyond what he could withstand, and so it twisted him, consumed him, thus sealing his ultimate fate."

"Albedo claims that you have transcended this tainted blood, becoming a being much like himself. That is his opinion. I remain unconvinced."

"I trust only the facts, only that which I 'see' for myself. So take this chance, child of M. Prove yourself to me."

"Hmm. Looks like Albedo wasn't mistaken after all."

Next time, maybe don't ambush us with a bunch of monsters just to prove a point!

Still, I do feel like I can control my power more freely now that we've defeated them.

"After hearing about you, I prepared a technique that would seal the dark power in your blood. I had planned to take this opportunity to pass it on to you."

"Of course, using it comes with a price. While it would maintain your existence in Teyvat, it would also weaken your connection to this world."

"And you are M's child, when all is said and done. How could I allow that uncontrolled power to send you down the same path as the child who came before you?"

"But seeing you now, it appears my concerns were misplaced. M was a terrific mother, and a far more capable one than I."

"And I must admit, I'm rather curious to see how far you can go — how will you, an alchemical being truly integrated with this world, find your place in human society?"

"I've never conducted an experiment like this before. As such, you may yet hold the key to some unexpected answers."

Hey! You've got one thing wrong there. Durin's not an experiment! He's our friend!

I'm not sure I understand, but... I appreciate your kindness, Aunt Rhinedottir.

Ahem... And that's all Master Rhinedottir has to say. *coughs*...

Good work, Sebas. Can't be easy being you.

Heh. A cat that can imitate someone else's voice is just as strange to witness as the first time.

Well, do not be so shocked. I am hardly an ordinary cat.

Ahem... And that's all Master Rhinedottir has to say. *coughs*...

Uh, could we get a self-introduction, at least?

Yeah! We're used to talking cats at this point, but one that can imitate someone else's voice... That's a first.

I don't see how that's important, but if you must know... I am Sebas, a simple butler.

You're friends of Albedo, yes? Strictly speaking, I am his "elder." So, make no mistake — I am no ordinary cat.

In fact, from a biological standpoint, I am no cat at all, but rather, an alchemical being. You wouldn't consider yourself a Specter simply because you float in the air like one, surely...

A Specter? What are you trying to say, mister?

Oh, I know! Sebas is implying that you're—

Maybe don't finish that thought, Durin.

What thought? Hey!

Oh, and considering how Master Rhinedottir's message ended, I suppose this technique is useless now. I'll just destroy it.

Few and far between are the people that can make her reconsider. Quite the impressive feat, young man.

With that done, I'll be going now. I have another message to pass along. Perhaps we'll meet again sometime.