A Knight's Legacy

Huh? It's not a holiday or anything, is it? Why's it so lively in here?

...Prepare a few more strings of colored flags. As for the celebratory wine... I'll do the quality check in person.

This is our first award ceremony since the expeditionary force's triumphant return. We're looking to put on a show, you hear?

Leave it to us, Captain Kaeya!

An award ceremony?

Oh? The Honorary Knight and Paimon? Well, this saves me the trouble of sending someone to invite you.

I'm sure our colleagues from the expedition will be delighted to see such prestigious guests in attendance.

The Knights are giving out awards?

Well, I'm sure you know how many Knights bear unique titles, yes?

Take the Grand Master's "Boreas" or Captain Eula's "Spindrift," for example... Some they inherit. Others have unique origins...

But in the vast majority of cases, they are titles conferred to honor said knight's conduct and achievements.

Like how I'm the "Honorary" Knight?

Hmm... You could say that! Shame we were so busy with the issue of Dvalin's corruption back then, or we'd have held a ceremony for you, too... Let me think. Why don't we make it up to you this time?

It's fine, it's been so long, anyway.

Besides, isn't this ceremony meant for the knights who're back from the expedition in triumph? We wouldn't want to steal their thunder!

Plus, being honored guests is way more impressive than actually receiving a title! Y'know, makes us sound like big shots!

You might actually have a point there...

Is that so? In that case, I'm looking forward to seeing you at the ceremony.

By the way, who's getting titles this time around?

Mostly those who've made outstanding contributions during the expedition: Winfried, Leifhelm...

And Lohen, Vice Captain of the 5th Company.

Wait. Him? You mean he doesn't have one yet?

If it were just a question of personal ability, he'd have received a title before the expedition even started.

But he hasn't been with us for very long, and... Well, let's just say there are personal reasons for the delay.

Word is that he'll not only gain a title, but also official command over 5th Company.

Why, by my count, he's even set to break a certain someone's record.

"The youngest Captain of the Knights of Favonius," of course... The previous record holder was our former Cavalry Captain, Diluc.

Hehe. I wonder what face our "former Captain" will make when that happens.

I'm guessing he won't make any face.

Ah, ah, I wouldn't be so sure. He smiled oh-so-brilliantly the day he set that record...

A smiling champion of justice, huh...? Yeah, nah, Paimon can't see it...

Well, let's not dwell on that. Care to guess what title our dear Vice-Captain Lohen will receive?

Gotcha, easy! So, Lohen... Lohen... "Dagger Knight"? "Smirking Knight"? Uh... Right! "Punching Bag Knight"!

Your skills are fading, Paimon...

Nuh-uh! This guy's just... hard to sum up! Anyway. What's his title gonna be?

Hmm, I'd say most signs right now point to...

—"The Benevolent Knight."

...Benevolent?

How's that even slightly associated with him!?

Haha... Long story. Alas, it seems someone has come looking for you.

Honorary Knight! Honorary Knight! Thank goodness, you're actually here.

Is there something you need from me?

Uhm... The Grand Master would like you to come to the Knights of Favonius Headquarters. He says he has important matters to discuss!

Varka? What important business would he have with us?

Paimon can't say she'd be surprised... But it's not like he's never serious, so maybe something really has come up...

See you later — remember to attend the ceremony!

...Any questions about the award ceremony arrangements? Perhaps... Are you even listening?

Mm-hmm, okay. No objections.

...*cough* Lohen!

Huh... Yeah. Can I go now? Thanks a lot, Grand Master!

—Hey! Get back here!

*sigh*... What is it with you young people these days? When I first earned my title, I was so excited I couldn't sleep a wink all night...

Huh? Oh? And how many barrels of wine did you guzzle while counting sheep?

...That's not the point!

*sigh*... Forget it. I know you're not interested in a knightly title — or the position of Captain.

But it's Adorno's final wish to have you inherit the title of Benevolent Knight before he officially retires.

...

You've been back in Mondstadt for a while now, and you're usually stationed at Dornman Port... Have you not thought about going to see him?

...Hey, there have been too many reports to file since our return from the expedition. I haven't been able to find the time.

Oh? Odd that the handwriting on the reports you've submitted looks rather like Gunther's, wouldn't you say?

Ugh... Can't even handle a little "paperwork"... He still needs more training.

Anyway — go have a good talk with Adorno. We'd like a smooth transition for both the title and the position of Captain.

Consider this a direct order from yours truly, the Grand Master, so don't go using work as an excuse, you hear?

*sigh*

Eh, don't look so worried. I've a rough idea of the agreement you two made before the expedition. If you need someone to cover for you...

...I mean, considering Adorno's special circumstances, I can make an exception and go with you.

...Uh, forget it. You two've worked together for so long, he'd see right through you with a glance.

*sigh* True... And besides, I've got other matters to attend to... Is there anyone else you can take?

Someone convincing, but not too close to Adorno... Do we have such a knight here in Mondstadt?

Hah, that "knight" you speak of... has just arrived.

I was troubled, troubled, I tell you, but then I just happened to see you two walking by from the window. This must be the Anemo Archon's guidance, don't you think?

Not at all! Paimon's not sure what's going on yet, but you just want us to help you scam someone, don't you?

Oh no, no, no, no, no, not at all! Honesty is a knight's badge of virtue. I'd just like you to "play the part" of my "friends."

...And corroborate some of the expedition's events while you're at it. Relax. If I say a single lie... feel free to punch me, alright?

Wait. There's a ton of problems with that! We didn't even meet up with Varka until the very end of the expedition, and we didn't run into you in Nod-Krai, either...

Ah, right. Speaking of "friends," I've heard tell of a certain "friendly custom"...

—The "friendship fee." Here. I insist.

...Th—That's a lot of friendship!

I receive an allowance for special missions. Guess it all piled up before I knew it. I don't really have any use for so much money, so... why not give it to a friend?

Y'know... We could always do with another friend... don't you think?

What about those problems you mentioned!?

P—Problems are meant to be solved! F—For the sake of friends...!

...Adorno the Benevolent Knight. Captain of the 5th Company, and my direct superior.

Benevolent Knight... Wasn't that...

The knightly title I'm about to inherit? It seems that's the rumor. But in truth, he and I made a pact...

In return for recommending me for the expedition, he hoped I, in turn, would reflect on what it truly means to be a virtuous knight while I was away.

Once it was all over, I'd then inherit the title Benevolent Knight from him... as well as the position of Captain.

Uhm, wait, does that mean... You aren't confident you can get his approval, and that's why you want us to go along with your little show?

Don't get me wrong — I have no interest in titles or positions. I'd just... rather not listen to his nagging.

...Did he not join the expedition himself?

Oh, he'd have loved to. He's a real veteran of Varka's campaigns. Wouldn't have missed that show for the world...

...If age and strength were still on his side. But I imagine it is now his final wish to find the "Benevolent" title a home.

Is that so? Then we'll...

...Got it. I'll tag along for the ride.

Haha! I knew that would do the trick. Off we go, then — to Dornman Port.

Hey! How much of what you just said was true, huh? You sure you're not out to scam this Adorno guy?

"The situation in Sumeru is as described above... It is time to eliminate the remaining poison Dottore has left in Mondstadt."

*sigh*... Eroch... Ursa... It's been a while since I last heard those names. I can feel a headache coming on...

Hey, old man! Still kicking, I see?

Heh. Didn't buy the farm during the expedition? Thought you might've fallen into some pit somewhere, what with how long it's taken you to come see me.

Ah, you worry too much. When it comes to pits, I've been the one doing all the digging and burying.

...That's a novel way to say hello...

Who are these two?

My friend — the "Honorary Knight" — and his guide, Paimon.

"Honorary Knight"... The same one that resolved the Stormterror incident...

Oh, he didn't just resolve that incident — he helped us complete the expedition. The Wild Hunt, The Doctor, Andrius... He played a part in dealing with all of them.

Oh? I've quizzed the knights at Dornman Port about what happened during the expedition.

Unfortunately, for some reason, none of them were willing to tell me the whole story... It's almost as if someone told them to avoid me.

(Lohen... was that your doing?)

Since we've got a moment, let's have a proper chat. How did this magnificent knight here end up making friends with you?

Hmm, I suppose it's because we both possess a "chivalric spirit" that shines as bright as Mora. Isn't that right, Paimon?

Yeah... Just like Mora, haha...

I've been keeping my promise to you, you know. For instance...

I've been organizing group training sessions with my fellow knights every week to build ironclad trust between "friends"...

Oh, right, the team building I told you about! Great way to foster trust and chemistry.

And so, to ensure the absolute safety of my "friends," I went out every night, eliminating potential threats around our stronghold...

Hmm... Vigilance and reconnaissance are indeed things a Company Captain needs to pay attention to...

Hah... Just ensuring my "friends" get a good night's rest. All in a day's work, you know?

Of course, in order to gather intel for the expeditionary force, I also needed to maintain my "connections" at all times... and communicate earnestly with my friends...

Haha, I didn't expect you to have matured so much from one trip...

See, you two? I didn't lie, did I?

You, uh... didn't... somehow...

And that's the story, old man. Now pass on that Benevolent Knight title... thing, and get some well-deserved rest, alright?

Hey now, we aren't finished talking yet, are we? Word is that you faced a truly formidable foe while in Nod-Krai...

Someone called... the Rächer of Solnari, I believe?

...!

Whoa, really!? Why haven't we heard you and Varka talk about that?

...Ha, there's nothing to tell...

...I was with the Grand Master when we ambushed Rerir. But not only was I useless, I even ended up acting as a punching bag.

That left me laid up in camp for several days. By the time I could finally get out of bed, I heard the news... that you had all joined forces to banish him.

Oh, so that's why Paimon didn't see you when we were duking it out with Rerir... It's not like you to miss a fight...

Paimon...

Oh! Sorry...

No need to apologize. You're right. I wasn't strong enough...

I was slow, weak, powerless... mortal.

Lohen! Lohen... Hey! You! Take him and fall back!

Yeah! In the end, we had to use his power against him just to banish him... So don't worry about it too much!

...But he was once a mere mortal too, wasn't he?

...

Ahem. Well, I haven't seen this Rächer of Solnari with my own eyes, but I believe that strength alone does not a "knight" make.

Anyway, I've got some important work to attend to. You and your friends can come along if you'd like, Lohen.

Important work? Aren't you already semi-retired?

Hah, just follow me and you'll see. Consider this required reading for any "Benevolent Knight."

Ah! The Benevolent Knight is here!

Grandpa Adorno!

Meow~

Hey now — no rushing, and no snatching! Easy now. Line up properly!

Eh, it's alright, it's alright. They're just kids. A little excitement is a good thing. Here you go. Today's candy.

Thanks, Grandpa!

Ooh, this is great!

...Is this the "important work" you spoke of?

Oh, we're just getting started, "recruit." Try to keep up!

...Understood, Captain.

Ugh...

I should be the one asking you — how are you so skilled at this?

I can barely imagine our Honorary Knight doing things like this all day long...

We don't spend every waking hour fighting bad guys who wanna destroy the world, y'know... Also, the world would be a way scarier place if that happened every day!

Daily routine, huh... I've been back in Mondstadt for a while now, but adapting... hasn't been easy.

Not long ago, camping in the wild and facing constant danger was our "daily routine."

But you were still on the expedition then, right? Now you can finally relax!

You think so? Personally, I find it hard to feel at ease with any sort of "daily routine."

It was the Anemo Archon who scattered the snowstorms that once swept Mondstadt, the Knights of Favonius who won the peace we now enjoy through conquest. A single unexpected incident could bring it all crashing down.

So... rather than waiting for someone to turn my "daily routine" on its head, I find it more reassuring to follow an "extraordinary routine."

...

We Knights are needed precisely because the world is so fragile.

Oh, are you done handing out the candy already?

Indeed. Looks like you're all wrapped up here as well. Thanks for exercising such patience.

This next task should give you a chance to stretch your legs. We're going to patrol the surrounding area for monsters.

Monsters? What, are the Knights shorthanded? You haven't held a sword in years.

Hey now, my retirement isn't official yet! It's just a patrol. I'm still more than capable of handling myself.

Things did get a bit tough a while back... but look at me now, eh? Might as well get going while I've still got pep in my step.

Never one to sit still, were you... Fine. Where are we headed?

We've had strange monsters show up around the outskirts. No one's gotten hurt yet, but you can never be too careful.

Usually, I just patrol the area for any approaching monsters, but this time, I've got you for backup.

Heh! Forget about just patrolling — we can take them all on, no problem! Right?

Piece of cake.

...Sure. Let's go.

Huh? That's weird... Paimon thought he'd be more excited...

Well, uh... Why not? *sigh* Paimon doesn't get him at all...

Weird, no signs of anything unusual here... Are there really monsters nearby?

If you're looking for the ones that have been behaving strangely, I fear you're here too late.

It seems someone beat the Knights of Favonius to the punch and took care of them already.

Diluc? What are you doing here?

Long time no see, Mr. Adorno. You too, Traveler, Paimon... Lohen.

Uhm... Were the monsters here wiped out by a certain Darknight Hero by any chance?

No.

Are you sure?

...I'm not personally familiar with this "Darknight Hero" you speak of, but based on the rumors I've heard, the traces left on this battlefield don't match his style.

This looks more like someone... obtained advance intel on the monsters and came to "clean up." Not even a single scrap remains.

Oh? So it would appear you're here to investigate, Master Diluc? That's odd. Why would the boss of the Dawn Winery be interested in monsters?

Dawn Winery's caravans pass through Dornman Port. The rumors left me ill at ease, so I decided to see for myself.

As for the Knights of Favonius... are they still understaffed even with the expedition's return?

Hah, strict as ever, I see. I took this patrol up myself — gotta keep moving while I still can.

I've been living this life for decades. Can't just sit idle, you know?

...Thank you for your hard work, venerable Benevolent Knight.

...Wait, what? Not even Varka gets that much respect from Diluc!

Heh. I'd say that's Varka's problem.

*sigh* Eroch only got away with causing that uproar by taking advantage of the Grand Master's absence.

If he and the Alder Knight had been here, they never would have allowed Crepus's heroism in driving off the dragon to go unrecognized.

...And we old codgers back in Mondstadt wouldn't have been the only ones left to stand up for your father.

...But they weren't there, were they?

Let's cut the small talk. Since there are no clues here, I have no reason to stay. Goodbye, Traveler, Paimon.

And... take care, "Benevolent Knight."

*sigh* Ursa... Eroch... Even when gone, some foes leave wounds that won't easily heal.

...

Hmm? Need me to explain? Sure. Ursa was a wicked dragon who could really take a beating, and Eroch was an Inspector who could've really used one...

*cough* ...Allow me instead. Ursa the Drake was a dragon who first appeared in Mondstadt a thousand years ago, bringing calamity with its immense might.

After the Knights of Favonius were founded, our first Grand Master, Vennessa, sealed it away with the Anemo Archon's help. After that, the dragon sank into slumber...

However, just a decade ago, it appeared in Mondstadt once again!

With the Grand Master away, its timing could not have been worse. Not only that, it would lie low when the Knights of Favonius mobilized to attack, only to suddenly reemerge when they were resting...

Such perfect timing!?

In the end, it was also "perfect timing" that the Fatui Harbinger who exterminated it just so happened to be "passing through."

That's right, your old friend — The Doctor. Or would it be more accurate to say one of his Segments?

So, Ursa the Drake waking up... it was all part of some plot by that Segment?

Not entirely. Even a Fatui Harbinger would've struggled to stir up such a storm in Mondstadt all by themselves.

So, there was someone else pulling the strings?

Indeed. There was one other person who, seduced by transcendent power, secretly colluded with The Doctor...

He was the then-Inspector of the Knights of Favonius, and the greatest traitor to the Knights in a hundred years — Eroch.

...When Diluc had just come of age, Ursa attacked a trade caravan from the Dawn Winery.

It should've been nothing more than a common raid, a tactic they commonly used to incite fear.

But the swaggering dragon was driven back by a mere merchant — Diluc's father, Crepus... who paid the ultimate price.

News of this defeat did not favor Eroch's plan to seize power through terror, so he suppressed the truth, claiming he was doing so to "maintain the honor of the Knights."

If only I had discovered a moment sooner that he and The Doctor were working hand in glove... perhaps I could have stopped everything that followed.

That's not your burden to shoulder alone. Eroch hid his true colors well — up until the incident with Ursa.

...Even his victims had no idea who was responsible for their suffering.

*sigh*

...We needn't continue to live in the shadows of scum like that, old man.

...Hmm, you've got a point. We've got long lives ahead of us, after all.

Let's get on with our next task, eh? This should lift your spirits a bit, I'm sure — we'll be assisting the 10th Company with their research.

Hmm... It's as we thought — the magic Miss Alice left behind isn't so easily understood.

Hey! Sucrose... Huh? Is this...

The bubble we used to welcome the expeditionary force?

Looks like something the Hexenzirkel cooked up...

Ah, Traveler! Are you here to assist with the development tests for the Simulation Training Bubble: Type 02?

Is that... the magic bubble that can recreate memories?

You've used it too?

I was told not long after my return that I could use this to catch up with the various events, large and small, that transpired during our absence.

...But using this level of magic for... well, storytelling seems like a huge waste of resources.

You're not alone in thinking that. Our Investigation Team quickly recognized its broader potential for training simulations.

If we could recreate formidable enemies from senior knights' memories and incorporate them into realistic, safe training simulations, that could help raise the whole organization's combat prowess.

However, we've been debugging the bubble for a while now, and we still haven't fully grasped its underlying principles... We're also struggling to balance realism with safety...

"Safety"... doesn't sound like something Alice would give much thought to.

That so? Sounds interesting. Let me give it a shot.

You're not here to take part, are you, pops?

Oh, not to worry. I know exactly how much strength these old bones have left in them. I'm just here to provide the "memories" inside my head.

Oh? Then who was the tester in your original plan?

Miss Sucrose, the test arrangements are... Ah... Lohen?

...Theodore?

Why are you...

I just happened to come along with Adorno to test this Simulation Training Bubble. I take it you're the scheduled tester?

Ah... Yes, that's right. And these are...

*cough* Let me introduce you. These two are the Honorary Knight and his guide, Paimon.

The Honorary Knight? I didn't expect someone so distinguished...

And this is Theodore, a trainee medic with the 8th Company. Like you, he's one of Lohen's friends.

Lohen? ...Friends?

No need to sound so surprised. I have plenty of "friends," don't I, Paimon?

Y—Yeah...

(Paimon wonders how much this guy's "friendship fee" was...)

Hmm...?

Theodore, isn't rescue and medical care more your thing? How did you end up getting roped into testing?

Uhm, I actually helped to construct this simulation, so I understand a few of its basic principles.

Besides, I trained to become a knight, too. And even if something happens, I should be able to patch myself up...

But you needn't force yourself to do this if Vice-Captain Lohen's willing to take over. We might get more practical test data from frontline knights too, so...

Y—Yeah, I suppose Lohen's the better pick...

Chin up, Theodore. If anything happens to Lohen, we'll be counting on you to treat him.

...Alright.

I doubt there's a memory out there that can hurt me... but let's get started, old man.

No fluctuation in pain parameters... Hmm. Should we switch to a more... normal test subject?

No need. Let's continue the test.

Are you sure? I don't think my memories will yield anything worth fighting against at this point...

Uh, don't we have a knight right here who's faced more terrifying foes?

Come on... Show me the Rächer of Solnari — as you remember him.

...Are you sure?

I'm not so disheartened that I'd fear his memory. I just wanna see...

If I'm still as... powerless as he claimed.

...*panting*...

Ah, Mr. Adorno! Are you...

I'm fine... Just threw my back out... Gotta take a break, that's all... But Lohen...

*cough* Ungh...

Wound up hurting yourself from trying to hold back that final blow, didn't you...

Theodore, go get him checked over. Last thing we want is to miss a serious injury.

Alright... Lohen, come with me.

...

*cough*

Mr. Adorno! Are you alright?!

It's no big deal... Just got old. Things stick with you once you're over the hill, waiting to be set off by the slightest exertion... *sigh* Guess I'll have to ask Theodore for another prescription.

Is there... something up with Lohen?

Could there be a problem with the magic? But if there were issues with the reproduced memories, the Honorary Knight should have noticed...

Are you saying the problem... lies with Lohen himself?

...Did the battle with the Rächer of Solnari set him off again...

...Lohen's pursuit of power began long ago.

The traitor, Eroch, collaborated with The Doctor on forbidden experiments in his quest for greater power...

Lohen nearly became one of their test subjects.

Experiments by The Doctor!?

(Could he be just like Collei...)

Fortunately, the Knights tracked Eroch's cronies down, uncovering their plots before they could act.

They cut their experiments short and tried to transport their victims away... But we intercepted them in transit and rescued everyone.

I heard about that. That was the incident that saw you gain the title of "Benevolent Knight," right?

I'd never have guessed that Vice Captain Lohen was involved...

*sigh* I never deserved that title. We saved the kidnapped children, yes, but I failed to root Eroch out.

I couldn't find their experiment site. Nor could I help Lohen fully shake off the trauma of that incident.

He's always believed he needs power to stay free from others' control. I'd hoped the expedition might change his perspective, but...

So that's what happened...

...It's tough having to act the part of a "friend" with someone like him, huh?

Yeah... Wait!

Haha, I may be getting old, but my eyes haven't failed me yet.

Ignoring his methods, the fact that he's found companions willing to play along with his little charade shows he's made at least some progress.

Even if you're just acting, maybe learning from you will finally help him figure it out.

Hmm...

Sucrose? What's wrong?

There's something I'm concerned about... Honorary Knight, would you mind taking a look at this?

...Strange. Mr. Adorno said that Lohen's obsession may have caused the projection to spiral out of control.

However, the Simulation Training Bubble: Type 02's parameters were all normal... If anything, it was the power Vice Captain Lohen released at that moment that appeared unusual.

So you haven't seen anything like this before?

No... It's not the elemental energy we usually encounter, and it isn't the "Void Realm energy" that Mr. Albedo talks about either... Do you have any ideas what it might be, Honorary Knight?

(I thought I sensed... some familiar power back there... but I can't be certain.)

So you think there's something up with Lohen? He's not... messing about with something dangerous, is he?

That's not what I meant. I'm just reporting my findings. We shouldn't accuse our companions of anything untoward — not without evidence.

You have a point! We've just run into this sorta thing way too many times... Can't be too careful...

Why did you come here today? We clearly agreed—

Varka's orders. Not my decision.

Even so, that was way too careless of you. Using so much power... *sigh*

...What if we're exposed?

Hehe, then... We'll just have to accelerate our experiments before that happens.

Hey! Grandpa Adorno!

Oh, little Paimon, and the Honorary Knight!

Feeling better today?

Right as rain! I wasn't really injured yesterday. Theodore had a look at me, and frankly, I'm feeling better than ever!

I've his treatment to thank for my continued vigor. Without his help, they'd probably have buried me years ago.

Theodore... You mean the apprentice medic from the 8th Company? He didn't look all that skilled to Paimon...

He once aspired to be a knight fighting on the front lines, but perhaps the physician's path suits him better.

Anyway, enough about that for now. Did you guys come here looking for Lohen?

Yeah, he disappeared after trying the Simulation Training Bubble yesterday. We can't find him anywhere...

Did he come back here?

Yeah, he left a note this morning... Said he wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday.

He confessed that yesterday was all just an act, and that he couldn't stand this bone-dry daily routine, so, to make up for it...

"...I'll wipe out every last one of those annoying monsters."

That's how he apologizes? Heh. Totally his style.

Hmm... Ordinary monsters pose no threat to him. What worries me is that something like what happened yesterday might happen again...

If you could keep an eye on him, that would certainly put me at ease.

Mmhmm, I'll keep an eye out.

Guess you're the last one... You'd better put up a good fight!

—!

...Hmm? Who's there!

...!

Ugh... It ran away...

—I never thought a winery owner would care so much about hunting monsters.

Or could it be you're after something else?

And what about you? Are monsters all you aim to eradicate?

Given how the previous scene was so clean that "nothing" was left behind...

Oh? First I've heard of it.

In that case, why don't we examine the monsters here? Perhaps we'll discover what it is about them that's attracting so much attention.

...Ah, forget it. I'll go after the one that got away. Investigations and the like aren't really my style.

See you around... Diluc.

...That's the gist of everything that happened before you arrived.

What's he tryin' to pull, seriously... Forget "Punching Bag Knight," he should be the "Needs-A-Punch Knight"!

Yeah! Adorno talked about 'em yesterday... Sounded like they're kinda weird, but they haven't hurt anyone yet?

Which is partly down to someone secretly eliminating them... and partly down to them preferring to attack their own kind whenever hunger strikes.

They attack... their own kind?

Yes. Eyewitness reports are scarce, so we can't be certain, but the monster remains here do show signs that they've been fighting each other.

Forming packs, yet killing each other... It's not the behavior of naturally occurring monsters.

It's certainly strange...

Huh? But if these monsters will attack each other, can't we just wait for them to wipe themselves out? Why be so vigilant?

Because such beasts, bearing Ursa's Flesh, have appeared before, and not just once, either.

...Varka!

Well, this is a coincidence. Honorary Knight, Paimon, and you too, Diluc.

...So, the Knights of Favonius are not entirely ignorant of this anomaly.

Yes... The tragedy Eroch wrought cannot — and will not — be allowed to happen again.

Did you just say... Ursa's Flesh? Is this somehow related to that Eroch guy?

In his pursuit of transcendent power, he once conspired with one of Dottore's Segments to extract a serum containing the power of Ursa the Drake from the dragon's flesh.

When the reckoning with the Knights came, he and his cohorts all injected themselves with that serum... causing us quite a bit of trouble.

Their strength and bloodthirst increased in equal measure, and consumed by madness, they even attacked each other.

Ironically, Eroch ultimately failed to control that power. Not only did he turn his sword against his followers, but he went to his own demise in the process.

Ursa the Drake... What exactly is it? How could it have such terrifying power?

That's right.

Then... then why did they only seal it away? Was even the founding Grand Master unable to kill it?

No. It was spared because... Ursa the Drake was once an angel.

What!?

I'm sorry!?

I've heard that long ago, the angelic race was faced with a difficult choice... and Ursa chose to preserve its "power."

Having lost its mind and retaining only power, this angel remained drawn to human settlements, not realizing that its proximity alone would destroy many...

Is that why Vennessa decided to seal it away back then?

Yes, but it was awakened by The Doctor's inducement... which was an oversight on the Knights' part. I won't deny that.

Rather than assigning blame for the past, we would be better served by rooting out the present threat.

But Ursa's flesh and blood... Why would it reappear within these monsters?

Eroch was, admittedly, once a knight in whom we placed much of our hopes. As such, he knows our methods well.

Before he met his end, he destroyed all records regarding his experiment site.

To this day, we've yet to find any information to locate it. I suspect we have the Segment to thank for that, too.

But Dottore's backup plans were dismantled by Traveler in Sumeru, a fact you're no doubt aware of.

We believe this means that the covert measures he took in Mondstadt have also ceased to work.

Ahh... So those monsters... They all escaped from the experiment site!?

I'm afraid it goes deeper than that — someone has likely restarted the experiments.

(Past experiments... Ursa's flesh and blood... Angelic power...)

(Does this mean... that the power I sensed in Lohen yesterday is...)

You noticed it too, then? During the commotion yesterday.

Yes. At the time, I...

So it's possible that Lohen has been dabbling in forbidden experiments to gain extraordinary power?

He... He isn't bad enough to do something like that, is he?

Wealth, power, authority... Too many things can turn a good person into a villain.

Ursa, Eroch... Neither of them were the "bad guys" you might imagine before they made their fateful choices.

But no matter Lohen's intentions, it is my duty to pull him back from the edge before he goes too far.

So... What do we do now? Keep investigating in secret?

No need for that. That's why I'm here at Dornman Port — I'm going to find him and ask him directly!

...Slippery little rat. Pretty good at running away, aren't you?

Now... where will you go from here?

Hey— Lohen!

Now's not the time to be cleaning up test subjects! The Knights are making their move!

...Ugh.

Lots of unfamiliar knights showed up in Dornman Port today... Did yesterday's test expose us? Or did they capture an experiment subject? Could they have discovered...

It was only a matter of time. I'd say we were lucky to have lasted this long.

Heh... Steadfast allies make redoubtable opponents, as they say.

What do we do now, then? Find a place to lie low?

...That would make reaching our objective even harder.

That you were able to come here freely means the Knights haven't verified their suspicions just yet. We have to go all-in while we still have the chance.

Do it now. Use me as a test subject.

Now? But those problems we were having before... We still haven't...

Why are you hesitating? I told you, we're not the same, you and I. I'm doing this for myself.

Extraordinary power comes with extraordinary risks. I figured that out a long time ago.

But...

Do it. Now! Or have you forgotten your goal?

...!

*cough*

No! It's not working! ...Was the dosage too low? Or was the concentration too weak?

Or maybe... the perfect result was never attainable...

Lohen! We've got to hide! We can gather more monsters for experiments later...

...No. No!

Hide? How much time do you think the Knights will give us, huh? We've always been gambling with a small window of opportunity.

Now we'd only confirm their suspicions if we ran. That would make us targets no matter where we resurface. How would we get close to our target then?

Then... what should we do now?

...We're going to break the target out tonight.

Then... he can follow us down to "Hell."

As expected, the Knights of Favonius are acting swiftly...

There's a crowd gathering up ahead... Something about this feels wrong...

That's... Adorno!

Hah... I finally found you!

Meow...

Keep a close eye on it now. Don't let it stray too far from you again, alright?

Thank you... Thank you, Grandpa Adorno!

And don't run off into the countryside alone looking for it again. I know you're worried about it, but Hannelore's worried about you, too. We'll keep this our secret this time, but don't let it happen again.

Okay... I understand.

Meow...!

*roar*

Ah! A... A monster?

A monster? How did it get here... Something about this one doesn't look right...

A—Ah... Ah...

Don't be afraid! I'm here with you! Now stand up and get out of here!

B—But...

Run back home! Don't you worry — Gramps here... is a knight!

...The knights who arrived later defeated the monster... Its power far exceeded what is normal.

Adorno fought it tooth and nail to buy time until they arrived.

Adorno... Adorno!

Hah...

...It's fine. You know my condition... I wouldn't have made it this far without your help.

Fighting one last time to save others sure makes me feel more like a knight than lying in bed ever did! ... *cough*

I'm sorry to do this to you now... I know you worked hard on those treatments...

I...

Lohen... The title of "Benevolent Knight," and the 5th Company's captaincy...

I...

—If you don't want them, just let them go. Be true to yourself, that's all that matters.

...

...Lohen, come with me for a moment.

The Investigative Team's analysis shows that the monster that attacked Adorno bears Ursa's mark.

...!

Do you still intend to remain silent now that things have got this far?

...

This isn't an interrogation. You can remain silent if you wish, but I hope you'll choose to come clean.

—I'll talk.

...I'll confess everything and accept whatever punishment awaits. But, please...

Please give me one more night. Tomorrow, I'll go to the Knights of Favonius and explain everything.

...I swear it on my honor as a knight.

*sigh*

...That's the first time I've heard you swear such an oath in all this time we've worked together.

I know it doesn't carry much weight.

Then let's use the Benevolent Knight's name to balance the scales.

Please keep your promise this time, Lohen.

...I'm sorry, Theodore...

I'd intended to make Lohen captain and leave my title to you... I know how much you've yearned for that title since you were little...

It's not your fault, Mr. Adorno...

I don't possess the talent that helped Lohen pass the Knights' exams so easily...

Years of work, and I'm still stuck as a trainee medic... How could I ever inherit your title?

*cough*... Medics... Knights... We're all protecting people, aren't we?

The way I see it, you earn that title every day...

...No. In truth, I've done so much wrong...

And what I'm about to do... is worse still...

...So you agreed to his request. Just like that?

What else should I have done? Ask him to submit a report for my approval? Please. Spare us both.

I know how much Adorno means to him, so I trust the weight of his vow.

There once was a man who made many promises to my father in the name of chivalry, yet in the end, he betrayed their friendship.

"Warped obsessions and the passage of time can turn friends into foes as easily as the wind changes its course."

...Quoting Crepus, are we? That really takes me back.

Did you guys... all know each other back in the day?

Once, there were three spirited young men who imagined their futures together.

One was a rich young masterCrepus. He dreamed of becoming a knight, but ended up inheriting the family winery.

Next came the hot-headed rule-breakerVarka, who ended up leading the Knights of Favonius.

And the last oneEroch... obtained neither the wealth he desired, nor the power he yearned for.

Obsession was all that was left, piling up day after day into a towering spire.

Is that how Eroch... let The Doctor worm his way in?

Eroch made his own choices, no matter what was said to him.

I understand his reasoning, but that doesn't mean I pity him. And it certainly doesn't mean I'll make the same mistakes again.

I'm keeping a close eye on my subordinates this time...

B—Bad news!

—Hey, I haven't finished talking yet!

That voice... Did it come from where Adorno was just now?

Lietzberg... What's going on here?

Adorno's... gone? Lohen and Theodore, too?

I don't know. I was on patrol, and I saw the door was wide open. I looked inside... and everything was like this!

Captain Adorno couldn't have gotten out of bed in his condition. Could... someone have taken him away?

Grand Master — it's an emergency! Vice Captain Lohen barreled straight through our patrols and headed for the outskirts!

That kid... Seriously...

Did he leave any sort of message?

Message? ... He looked like he was in a hurry. All he said was "Out of the way!" before rushing off.

Did you go after him?

Of course! But you know how fast he is. I'm afraid we...

Track him as far as you can. Leave the rest to us!

Diluc, Honorary Knight, I'm counting on you to help me with this one.

Hmm... Is this as far as we were able to track him?

Well, he's not known as the 5th Company's "Sharpest Arrow" for nothing. Gone in a flash.

If you want to praise him, save it for later! Don't we have any more clues?

The dew on this grass is cold. Probably the effects of elemental energy.

Oho? You really are something, eh, Honorary Knight?

Still, being spotted by witnesses and leaving traces... That's not the Lohen I know.

Do you think he wants to be followed?

Whether he's in a rush to complete something... or stop something from happening, our task remains the same.

Yup! Let's get going — we've gotta get to the bottom of this!

These metal scraps and vessels... It's like leading the expedition through Snezhnaya again.

Your earlier conjecture appears correct. This place indeed looks like an experiment site left behind by one of The Doctor's Segments.

No wonder the Knights of Favonius have failed to discover the entrance for so many years. It was most likely his handiwork.

And once the concealment faded, someone discovered this place before us, restarting the experiments on Ursa's flesh and blood.

You don't think it was...

Was that... a projection formed using memory?

Seems like a trap laid to slow our advance.

A trap? Could it be Lohen again...

Nah. That kid would've come up with something way more... deadly.

In any case, Lohen isn't the only one...

...Who was captured by Eroch and is familiar with this kind of magic.

...You don't look like you're here to assist.

On the contrary, I believe ending this as soon as possible is the best way to help you.

Hmph! Haha... End this? Is that what you're saying now?

Back when the test subjects were escaping left, right, and center... Back when I was ready to give up... Who was it who said I should keep going?

Ugh... did all the test subjects... escape?

...Uh, you shouldn't experiment on yourself so soon, Theodore.

Did you think that discovering Eroch's lab and taking control of Dottore's apparatus would be enough to help you restart their experiments?

Look at you — you can barely lift a finger, helpless to do anything but watch your test subjects flee.

Lohen... are you... here to stop me?

Heh, quite the opposite. Who do you think kept those monsters from eating you?

You... took care of them?

I also plan to deal with the ones that fled into the wild. If you ignore them, the Knights of Favonius will follow them right back to your doorstep.

You... Why are you helping me?

I know what you intend to do with the flesh and blood of Ursa the Drake. I've read the examination report you wrote for Adorno.

Old and frail, a mass of old injuries... One day, he won't wake up, and no one will be surprised. Without "extraordinary" intervention, that is.

I... I hid it! Even Adorno himself didn't see it!

Don't be so shocked.

We're "companions," both rescued by the Benevolent Knight. Did you really think I wouldn't notice your changes?

...Is that why you're willing to keep my secret?

Oh n—no, don't get me wrong. I sincerely hope Adorno can live a while longer — it'd save me from inheriting any unnecessary responsibilities.

But what I'm more interested in is "power."

Aren't you concerned that your monster experiments have hit a bottleneck, and that your own body can't bear Ursa's power?

In that case, use me as your test subject.

...

Without you, we'd never have come this far!

Refining the serum, continuing the experiments, bringing Adorno here... Were these ideas not all yours, Lohen?

That's right. And that's why I'm also prepared for failure.

Failure? We're so... so close. As long as you don't blow our cover, we've still got a shot!

Lohen, listen to me! The Ursa serum works!

Adorno's improving. He can get out of bed on his own now! ... If it weren't for you, I don't think he would have lasted the week...

But... I can only add low-concentration serum to Adorno's meals and medication for now. It won't cure the root cause...

Is that so? That's good to hear...

The smoother your experiments go, the greater my hopes of mastering this power.

Uhm... Do you think you could find the time to see him? He talks about you often...

...I—I'll pass. I'd really rather not listen to his nagging.

Besides, unnecessary contact only increases the risk of exposure... We're running out of time.

The Knights of Favonius will notice something is wrong sooner or later. No matter how many tricks we pull, they'll only work for a time. How much longer until you have complete control?

Soon! Very soon! Thanks to your help, the serum's power has stabilized substantially, though I wouldn't call it a gentle concoction...

...Don't go using it on the old man to save time.

Of course not! You're overthinking this. I know what I'm doing.

Uh-huh. So you say. Everyone assumes they know what they're doing right up until trouble lands on their doorstep.

Haha! If that day ever comes, feel free to slap some sense into me!

Blow our cover? Do you think the Knights never suspected? Who do you think was delaying the investigation?

How many times do I have to say this? We were gambling from the start — with our time, the Knights' time, and the time Adorno has left...

If you lose a fight, you retreat. If you lose a bet, you accept it... Linger on the battlefield or at the gambling table, and we're bound to lose even more.

What do you wanna do, then!? Stand by and watch him die!?

Hmph... Wake up already. In his present state, the serum would kill him. Would you prefer that?

I haven't given up yet! I... I completed the final refinements before you arrived.

This is the refined, high-concentration serum... So long as I use this, even you won't be able to stop me!

You can refuse to cooperate. That's fine. It just brings me back to where I began. I'll finish this myself!

...Relying on hazy childhood memories, Theodore was the first to find this place, restarting Eroch's experiments to prolong Adorno's life.

But at some point, the experiment failed, and the monsters escaped... Lohen then discovered him and offered his assistance, allowing him to continue extracting serum from Ursa the Drake...

That appears to be the full picture.

What do you intend to do with them?

*sigh*... I'll leave that headache to Jean and the others to deal with later. Let them decide the appropriate course to take.

For now, I'm more concerned about the remains of Ursa's Flesh, buried here beneath the ground...

*cough*

Why... I used... the highest... concentration possible!

You're weak... and you don't even have the self-awareness to realize it.

...Self-awareness? What right do you have to talk to me about self-awareness...? You lost control once before as well!

And that's how I know we can't go on!

If the price for saving Adorno's life is his very self, then we won't be saving him, but the monster he'll become!

Take a long, hard look in the mirror. Are you really the person he chose to inherit the "Benevolent" name?

I... I...

...I won't accept this... I can't accept this!

...

...When was the last time I embraced the two of you like this?

In the blink of an eye... you've grown too big for hugs.

A—Adorno...?

How did you...

I heard everything... You've been helping me cling on, haven't you?

It's thanks to both of you I have this chance... to hug you once again, just like old times...

All that's left to say is...

Haha. Why the tears? *sigh*... It wouldn't do for the Benevolent Knight to check out by making kids cry now, would it?

Promise me you'll see me off with a smile.

I...

I just don't want to... watch you...

Isn't it enough that you're here by my side?

—Adorno! Theodore!

—Lohen!

...This issue has been resolved, I take it?

...Not entirely.

Raargh!

What... What was that sound!?

I knew it... You had to stimulate Ursa's Flesh beyond the high-risk threshold to extract the necessary serum!

If its power is allowed to continue overflowing, all nearby lifeforms will be affected... just like the plants here, and those monsters we saw earlier.

I... Ugh!

Why are you still trying to act tough? You can barely lift a finger right now, can you? Huh... I know that feeling.

Hand it over, and then... get out of the way and watch.

...The key to the underground is in the lining of my coat.

Please... destroy Ursa the Drake's flesh... and its power.

Goodbye... Adorno.

Go. That power was never meant to linger in this world.

Raargh!

Past this point... That's where Eroch and the Doctor conducted their experiments on Ursa, isn't it?

Sure is. A madman seeking power, and an angel who chose it... What a farce.

...One that we're about to bring the curtain down on.

Ursa the Drake's residual power is not to be underestimated. Eyes on the prize, everyone. This'll be a tough fight!

Raargh!

Whoa — what was that noise over there!?

...Monsters, captured for experiments long ago. They've survived until now thanks to The Doctor's apparatus and Ursa's power.

I added quite a few to their number myself... Looks like they're getting restless.

Did you really need so many?

Are you sure your cages are sturdy? We could do without them complicating our fight with Ursa...

If they were sturdy, I wouldn't have had to work so hard to clean up previous escapees...

But don't worry, they won't disturb you... I guarantee it.

Are you planning to...

The ambitions of old subordinates, revenge for beloved family... Those are your grudges to settle, are they not?

In much the same manner, you just leave the monsters I captured to me.

Oh, one last thing...

Vice Captain of the Knights of Favonius 5th Company — requesting permission to attack.

Hah! Finally reporting in before you sortie, huh?

—Give 'em hell, Lohen.

And don't die — that's an order.

Haha! In that case, please dispose of Ursa at your earliest convenience.

Traveler... Should we help him?

Oho? Looks like that kid's "friendship fee" wasn't a complete waste after all, huh?

...Can he handle them all?

Trust him, just as he trusts us. After all, he's set to become the youngest Captain since your appointment.

Eroch, Rerir, Dottore... Hah, and now Ursa? Guess I'm not destined to rise to such challenges.

But ordinary people... We have our own battles to fight.

So, go. Settle things with your "obsessions"...

...Once and for all!

With me! Chaaarge!

Your verdict is...!

Now, begone!

Raargh!

Raargh!

Want to leave, do you? Can you hear Ursa's call? Or is it the serum you smell?

Well, I'm afraid that just won't do. Behind me stand not only heroes who battle wicked dragons, but slow, fragile mortals too.

So...

Come at me, each and every one of you!

Raargh!

"Rejoice. You shall soon surpass the common clay of this world. You shall cross into the realm of the extraordinary—"

Once, you believed you could control your fate by gaining power.

"Slow, weak, powerless... mortal."

Then, your paltry arrogance was smashed by power beyond reason.

...

"...I accept that we should send our strongest warrior to fight Nod-Krai's battles."

You are not special. That is the truth, one you once thought you had accepted.

"What do you wanna do, then!? Stand by and watch him die!?"

Yet you will not suffer a mundane death to befall you.

...

You are not wrong. You never have been! Power is the sole solution to all things. It is how we grasp destiny by the throat. It is how we resist even Death!

You simply lack enough of it. Not even close... unless... you accept this gift.

...

Power and means are neither good nor evil. Have you not always believed so?

Carving up Abyssal power, seeking aid from a coven of witches, leaning on divine favor...

Is there any difference? Are mortals unworthy of power?

Now then. Accept my strength... My guidance.

Heh, you're right. Power is just power.

...It's humanity's arrogance and stupidity that invite destruction.

*pained gasp*

*panting* Not so talkative now, hmm?

You embrace mediocrity!? You spurn my counsel!?

What I desire, I'll take with my own two hands. If I accept your guidance, "I" wouldn't be the master of that power now, would I?

Begone. I have no need for power I don't control.

No...!

Lohen! Wake up! Lohen!

...Lohen!

...Argh. Are you trying to burst my eardrums? I was just taking a quick nap. That fight took a lot out of me, you know?

Heh. Never thought I'd hear you say something like that.

I didn't inject myself with it. Just used it to attract the monsters. Can't exactly deal with out-of-control monsters when I'm going berserk myself, can I?

Plus, wouldn't want you finishing off Ursa just to turn around and have to deal with me.

There's still a little in my system from previous experiments, though... That stuff gives you a real headache.

Ursa's Flesh has been destroyed. There shouldn't be any further risk of activation.

...I see. Totally obliterated, huh?

What about Adorno and Theodore?

Our reinforcements showed up — I had the knights escort them back.

As for Theodore's punishment... and yours, I'll look into it later.

...Stay with him until the very end, you hear?

...Thank you, Grand Master.

"Do not stand by my grave and cry. My life, I gave to wipe tears dry."

"...Here rests the Benevolent Knight..."

Hehe. This epitaph suits you, old man...

Who chews bubblegum while visiting a grave...?

Hmm? Oh, here to see Adorno too, are you? Hey, want some gum?

Uhm, n—no thanks...

He always liked messing around with this stuff. Said it made the kids happy.

Pretty sure he'd be glad to receive candy on the other side.

I had nothing else to do during confinement, so I made candy to stave off the boredom.

No wonder we didn't see you at the award ceremony... You were in solitary confinement the whole time, huh?

Hah... That wasn't all. Our dear "reasonable" Acting Grand Master Jean handed down two other punishments.

And what were those?

The Knights have decided to rescind my commendation and not promote me to Captain.

The title of Benevolent Knight is to be buried with Adorno. The position of 5th Company Captain will also remain vacant — for the time being.

Is that... really okay!?

To quote Varka... "Look, Mondstadt did just fine for a long time with only an Acting Grand Master, right?"

He sure can be persuasive when he wants to be...

And it's all the more so for the title of Benevolent Knight.

I will not allow anyone unworthy to inherit it... even if the unworthy successor is me.

Paimon suddenly felt like that title suited you for a second... Must have been her imagination, eh?

You think so? I prefer a different title, really. The "Ends Justify the Means Knight"? The "A Win Is a Win Knight"? The "Punching Bag Knight" sounds alright, too.

That said, it seems this sinner will have to win a few more battles first before getting his next commendation.

Of course. After all, someone once told me.... acknowledging my limits is the first step towards transcending the mundane.

I'll keep winning, no matter what it takes.

...

Relax. Learning from our mistakes is part and parcel of getting stronger, no? Besides, I know why I pursue power.

Forgetting what you wanted in the first place... That would be true defeat. Do I look like that kind of idiot to you?

Hmm... It's food for thought. Best to have someone on hand to help if something does go wrong.

In that case, until I'm strong enough to shoulder everything on my own...

...Don't grow old on me, alright?