Ch.131: Into eternal night and Into the past and future.
Warning: Slight OOC maybe, mentions of death and abortion.
When the group finally entered the Night Kingdom, they stopped to look at the atmosphere around them. It was dark, and as mentioned almost little to no light, the only light source came from a tear in the sky. Some little spirits could be floating around, but the most notable thing in the area was the Abyssal energy.
Mualani: Looks like we made it. This is the Night Kingdom.
Iansan: It looks so different from what I imagined in the stories.
Aether: There's Abyssal energy everywhere...
Mualani: That overflow of energy is probably what trapped Kachina here in the first place.
Chasca: From this point forward, everything we know about the real world no longer applies. Anything can happen here.
Paimon: Paimon's more worried about how we're gonna make it out... We obviously can't go back the way we came.
Chasca: Do you see that patch of light on the ground? It's shining down from that fissure in the sky.
Paimon: Oh, yeah, right in front of us. So, that's coming from up there... Whoa, it's so high up! Did we really fall that far down!?
Chasca: Just like I said — our real-world knowledge doesn't apply here. We fell all this way, yet came out completely unscathed. If this was the real world, we'd have to climb our way back up to the entrance. But, here, all we have to do is stand underneath the light and offer a prayer.
Paimon: Seems like your scared too, huh? Good to know Paimon is not the only guide who's scared.
Aether: Don't try to run away you two. Especially you, little spirit.
Paimon: You really think that little of Paimon? That's not even why Paimon asked!
Little Spirit: *jingles angrily*
Mualani: So that means all we need to do is find Kachina and bring her to this location.
Chasca: Exactly. This light is streaming in from the real world. It's a link between the two realms.
Iansan: Hmm, the terrain looks difficult to navigate, and the visibility's not great, either. How are we supposed to find Kachina in these conditions?
Paimon: Yeah, these floating black things don't look super friendly, either.
???: *appears* Those are all manifestations of Abyssal power. Be careful.
Paimon: *scared* G—Ghost! A talking ghost!
???: Calm down, I'm here to help. You're the ones who helped Vichama, right?
Aether: Wait, does that mean you're...
Mallko: Yes. I'm Vichama's friend, Mallko. I was completely lost to this realm until I sensed a mysterious power calling out to me. It's like it was seeking me out, attempting to reassemble the pieces of who I used to be. Of course, it could only do so much... *guilty* I'm sorry I can only appear before you in this imperfect form.
Chasca: No, we should be the ones apologizing. If the Spiritspeaker Stone hadn't become corrupted by the Abyss, we could've done much more. But, we had to destroy it, otherwise Vichama and his tribe would have been in danger.
Mallko: Of course. Thank you for protecting him. I never imagined that, even after all these years, he'd still take such a risk for me... Under the power of the Stone, it felt like our souls were connected. Turns out even our regrets were exactly the same...
Mualani: Whether in triumph or death, you want your best friend by your side.
Mallko: Exactly. That may not be in the cards for us, but... *hopeful* It's not too late for you. You're using that little ball of light to look for the young girl from the Children of Echoes, right?
Little Spirit: *jingles and spins*
Mallko: Thought so, she's being chased by an embodiment of Abyssal power. I'd like to help her while I'm still in this form. This place has been severely corroded by the Abyss. *forms a shield* Stick close to me. My power will be able to ward off attacks for the time being.
While they continued to traverse through the Night Kingdom, they encountered many manifestations of the Abyss that would appear and disappear, monsters that they had to fight, and voices that came from the Abyss itself. Eventually, they managed to find Kachina cornered by rifthounds so there was no time to have a heartfelt reunion at the moment. Only after getting rid of the rifthounds, were they able to have a long awaited reunion with Kachina.
Kachina: You're here, you're finally here! *sobbing* Thank you so much... That monster can appear from anywhere... It almost caught me a bunch of times. The Wayob's power helped keep me hidden, so I just tried to stay out of sight until you got here.
Mualani: Attagirl! You did so well! And most importantly, you weren't hurt!
Paimon: Should we start heading back, then?
Kachina: Actually, I have a request. Will you come visit the Wayob with me? I can't exactly put it into words, but something's wrong with the Ode of Resurrection, and I know it has something to do with the contamination from the Abyss.
Iansan: That was the Pyro Archon's theory as well. Everything we've seen here certainly seems to back it up.
Mallko then began to explain that in the Night Kingdom, there are six main totem poles, representing the Wayob of each tribe which can be thought as the body of each Wayob. And that additional totem poles, like the ones around the Night Kingdom, serve as proxies to which the Wayob can extend their consciousness.
He continued to explain that only through the countless proxies scattered around the Night Kingdom, the Wayob can extend their consciousness over the entire realm and track down souls no matter where they roam. But if a proxy were to become severely contaminated, then a soul could become lost within the Night Kingdom.
Iansan: Judging by the current situation, I don't think we're dealing with just one contaminated proxy. Even if we could drive back the Abyssal power from one of them, that probably wouldn't even put a dent in the problem.
Kachina: Still, we can't just leave the Wayob to suffer. It's protected me this whole time...
Aether: Saving one is better than saving none at all.
Chasca: I agree. We might even manage to draw out the monster that's been hunting Kachina. Getting rid of the monster might help slow down the deterioration of the Night Kingdom.
Kachina: *held her head* Ugh, ugh... Argh...
Mualani: *worried* Kachina? What's wrong?
Kachina: N—Nothing, just a headache, and that voice again... telling me to abandon the Wayob and leave this place...
Paimon: Maybe we really should leave... Kachina's already been here for too long.
Kachina: No, I... I'm fine. I don't plan on listening to that nonsense. I can hold on.
Aether: Where's the totem pole?
Kachina: Just up ahead. I'll lead the way. Besides, I can still fight, so please... help me out a little longer.
Mualani: Listen to me, Kachina. We'll come with you, but that's because we want to help the Wayob, not because we have something to prove. You don't have anything to prove, either. It's okay if you reach your limit. We'll be there for you.
Iansan: Alright, the sooner we get this done the better.
Chasca: We've already come all this way, so we might as well try to get to the bottom of this.
Kachina: Let's go. This way.
Mallko: I'll stay here and try to stall the Abyss monster.
Mualani: All by yourself!? That's too dangerous!
Mallko: It's alright. I may not be as strong as that monster, but I'm definitely more familiar with the area. Besides... I don't have much time left. If you're anything like my friend, I'm sure you're not particularly fond of goodbyes. So, go. Achieve your goal, and return to the world where you belong.
Iansan: Thank you for everything.
Mualani: You're a true hero.
Mallko: Hahaha, thank you. *sighs* "No one fights alone."
When they bid their final goodbyes, the group left Mallko. After they got near to their destination, Paimon finally noticed the little spirits disappearance and Aether claimed that she wouldn't have to worry, for another little spirit is waiting to be released and help them leave the Night Kingdom. Eventually, they group arrived to the corrupted Wayob.
Kachina: Wayob? Wayob! I'm back! My friends and I are here to heal you! Wayob! Can you hear me? Wayob!
Mualani: So, we were right. The contamination is already too severe. It's preventing the Wayob from answering our calls. Alright, get ready, everyone. Time to purge the Abyssal energy from this place.
Chasca: *sensed something* Careful. We've got company.
Iansan: *surprised* Already!?
Abyss Lector: You really think that puny soul could slow me down... Courage in the face of futility is pure folly. He tried to get in my way, so I disposed of him.
Paimon: *in disbelief* You... You killed Mallko!?
Abyss Lector: He would have dispersed with or without me. Rather than worrying about him, I would urge you to focus on yourself. You may have defeated others of my kind in the past, but underestimate me now, and it will be to your peril.
Aether: Are you the one behind all of this?
Abyss Lector: No. The power of the Abyss is intoxicating. The destruction it seeks captivates like a masterful work of art. I strive only for the opportunity to see it up close. I thought this naive little girl was an exception, but it turns out... humanity is full of lambs willing to offer themselves up to the slaughter.
The Abyss Lector continued to mock humanity and its lack of understanding the power of the Abyss. He even began to mock Natlan's idea of Ancient Names, Pride, and Friendship, claiming that held no power at all that only those grandiose ideas were created by the Pyro Archon's selfishness.
Abyss Lector: Don't believe me? Then ask yourself — why is the Pyro Archon strong beyond measure, while you, Kachina, remain so pathetically weak?
Kachina: *uneasy* I... I...
Mualani: *stood next to her* Kachina. *held her hand* Feel that? I'm right here next to you.
Kachina: *reassured* Thanks, Mualani. You're right... I have nothing to fear. Because I'm not alone anymore.
Mualani: You're right... Maybe comforting ideals don't have any power. But, you also couldn't be more wrong. You've never had to work for your own strength, so you will never understand the true source of our power.
Abyss Lector: *pissed* What!?
Mualani: The courage we have to stand before you and not back down... It comes from our friendship. The power lies not in the ideal itself... But in our commitment to upholding that ideal, and in our decision to stand together and fight!
Mualani: Let's go, Kachina. It shouldn't take more than two of us to handle an enemy like this.
Kachina: Sorry in advance, but you... you deserve what's coming to you!
Mualani: There aren't many in Natlan who can beat us when we're together. It's time he got a taste of that kind of power.
With their reassurance, Kachina and Mualani were able to work together in order to defeat the Abyss Lector.
Kachina: *proud* We won! We actually won!
Aether: *proud* Nice job! Turns out, he wasn't any stronger than the ones we've fought in the past.
Iansan: That's what he gets for underestimating you two.
Mualani: Fantastic work, Kachina! Absolutely fantastic! This makes me so... unbelievably happy...
Kachina: I'm happy too, Mualani. Together, we really are unstoppable, hehe!
Mualani: *confused* Huh? Wh—What's happening?
Mualani's Ancient Name descends from the sky, then begins to glow.
Mualani: My Ancient Name... is glowing? But, I thought I didn't bring it with me...
Chasca: It's probably a projection from the real world, but that doesn't explain why it's glowing all of a sudden...
Iansan: *disbelief* Wait, does that mean you're...!?
A giant shadowy figure glowing gold with the same letters as Mualani's Ancient Name glowing on his chest emerges from Mualani's Ancient Name.
???: That was a bold move... diving head first into the fire to save your friend, especially in a place so overrun with Abyssal corruption. Still, seeing you pull it off was really something. Everything you said was exactly right. As isolated individuals, we stand no chance against the power of the Abyss. It took years' worth of scars and lots of unnecessary suffering for me to understand that for myself. The Pyro Archon's plan will unite us as one. Everyone has a part to play. Only then will we have the power to defeat the strongest of foes.
Mualani: Wh—Who are you...?
Tupac: Tupac, a warrior from the People of the Springs. I fought against the Abyss during the invasion five hundred years ago.
Mualani: I've heard that name before! You were the "Giant" who saved all of Natlan!
Tupac: Since you were able to awaken my words from your Ancient Name, that means you've fully embodied the aspirations of the Wayob. Under the Name "Umoja," you shall unite the tribes and save Natlan from its impending doom.
Tupac: "As long as blood still runs through your veins, even the tiniest spark of steel against stone can ignite a flame. Its blaze will become one with our vision for Natlan. Even amid everlasting darkness, our bonds remain eternal."
Tupac and Mualani connect their fists, then Tupac disappears. Mualani glows with the visual effects of her Nightsoul's Blessing.
Mualani: *held her head* Aaagh!!!
Kachina: *worried* Wh—What's wrong, Mualani?
Mualani: So many memories... My brain was just flooded with everything he once knew... So that's what happened...
Paimon: What do you mean? Did you just figure something out?
Mualani: Five hundred years ago, they foresaw the very crisis we're facing now. Efforts to save Natlan started all the way back then...
Iansan: We can go over the details once we get back. We shouldn't linger here longer than we have to.
Aether: Does that mean... you already know about this whole thing?
Iansan: I know bits and pieces, but I had no idea Mualani was also part of the plan.
Kachina: This sounds like something that's going to need a lot of explaining. Let's focus on saving the Wayob first.
Aether uses his power of purification while Paimon looks on and the rest send elemental energy to the stone. The Abyssal corruption is cleared from the stone, which now glows gold.
Kachina: Okay, that should be enough! Wayob... Wayob? Can you hear me?
Wayob: I hear your voice, Kachina... my dear child.
Kachina: *reliefed* Great... Well then, I'm afraid it's time to say goodbye. I just wanted to make sure you were okay before we leave, but we can't afford to stay here any longer. I was going to ask why you bestowed an Ancient Name upon someone like me, but it's okay... I'll keep searching within myself for the answer. I'll never stop trying to improve my strength. One day, I'll live up to the hero you saw in me!
Wayob: You are already an outstanding child in my eyes, Kachina, no matter what happens.
Wayob: You are all my most beloved children. It has always been my honor to protect and nurture you. Your Ancient Name is just that... a name. Much like your parents chose to name you, "Kachina," I also gave you a name, but it need not define you.
The Wayob explained that the name doesn't define who Kachina is and that she should focus on who she wants to be, that now she should focus on being a better her.
Wayob: The story of your Ancient Name is for you to continue. Just like your parents, my love for you will never change... no matter what the future holds.
Kachina: *sobbing* Thank you, Wayob...
Wayob: It gladdens me to see the Pyro Archon's plan move another step towards completion, but it is time for you to leave this place. The situation here is getting worse. Go now, my children. Save Natlan on behalf of all you hold dear.
Mualani: I know we've never met before, Wayob, but I just want to say... Thank you for encouraging Kachina... It was exactly what she needed to hear.
Suddenly an earthquake rebounded the area.
Paimon: Wh—What's going on? An earthquake!?
Iansan: We're out of time.
Mualani: It's the power of the Abyss! Quick, we need to run!
Aether immediately pulled out the other compass allowing the little light blue spirit to appear. Sensing the situation it immediately started to fly to the exit.
Paimon: Quick! Follow the little spirit!
While they were escaping, they kept dodging anything related to the Abyss and everything else that was trying to block their path to escape.
Paimon: We'll never make it!
Though they tried to run as fast as they could to the opening, they failed to reach it. When they believed that all hope was lost, the top of the realm is seemingly shattered by Mavuika.
Mavuika: You've done well. Now, come home.
Kachina: *in disbelief* We're... back?
Iansan: The Pyro Archon saved us.
Paimon: But, she's not here...
Aether: *confused* How did she regain her strength?
Paimon: Yeah... Didn't she say she used it all up?
Iansan: She's still in the Speaker's Chamber. What we saw in the Night Kingdom was just her consciousness.
Paimon: So you're saying... Her consciousness did all that!?
Iansan: ...Every great display of power comes at a price.
Mualani: You must feel terrible, Kachina... Just hold on, we'll get you to a doctor soon. Let's get back to the Stadium. The Pyro Archon said she'd have a doctor waiting for us.
Chasca: I recommend getting a full check-up, just to make sure no damage gets left behind.
Paimon: Paimon feels okay! What about you, Aether?
Aether: I'm completely fine.
Paimon: Right, you always seem to do pretty well against the Abyss.
Iansan: Let's get going. We need to share what we learned in the Night Kingdom, as well.
Paimon: Right! The Wayob mentioned something about the Pyro Archon's plan. What is it, exactly?
Iansan: I'll let her explain everything. We're all a part of the plan now. Every move we make from here on out will decide Natlan's ultimate fate.
Little Spirit: *jingles sadly*
Paimon: Aww, cheer up little spirit! You did your best in guiding us out.
Despite it being reassured, it still felt guilty upon not completing its master's orders.
Aether: *pats it* Y/n will still be proud of you for doing your best.
Mualani: Exactly! Don't worry about it too much, we had no idea that this would occur.
After everyone reassured the little spirit, it let out one final happy jingle before disappearing completely. Thus, the group returned to the Speaker's Chamber.
Paimon: Huh, there's a lot less stuff here than before...
Mavuika: It's good to see you all here in one piece. I know you must have a lot of questions, but let Chuychu check you over first. It's best not to let any lingering effects of the Abyss go untreated.
Chuychu: Thank goodness you made it back! I came here as soon as the Pyro Archon told me about your plan. Take a seat, everybody. I'll examine you one by one...
Despite the short stint in the Night Kingdom, Mualani and the others all have some degree of Abyssal contamination.
But, thanks to Chuychu's extensive experience treating Abyssal contamination, the harmful effects will not be permanent. The treatment also relieves Kachina's symptoms.
Chuychu: Alright, that should do it for now. But just to be safe, I'll perform another check-up in a couple of days. I have to say, though... I've never seen anyone react to the Abyss like you, Aether. It's like you're completely immune to its power.
Paimon: He's always been special like that. He can even purify its power. Wait, now that you mention it, Paimon doesn't think she's affected, either...
Aether: We don't know why, though.
Mavuika: Given the current situation, that ability will likely play a great role in the events to come.
Chuychu: Of course! I still have patients to see, so I'll head out.
Chasca: Thank you, Chuychu.
Chuychu: Alright, alright... We might not see eye to eye, but we both had good intentions. Just give it time. I'm sure we'll figure things out between us one day.
Mavuika: Alright... There's so much to discuss, I don't even know where to begin. You've seen it for yourselves, now... the devastation in the Night Kingdom....I'll get straight to the point. Just like Y/n claimed in that "unavoidable future" scenario, Natlan is on the verge of destruction. It's very possible our nation has less than a year before total devastation.
Kachina: *in disbelief* N—N—No... Th—That can't be true, can it!?
Aether: Less than a year...
Y/n: I did, but I believed that it was for the best to keep it a secret and use it as an "unavoidable future" scenario, even if it was bound to happen. That way, no one would panic like right now.
Mavuika: That was a wise decision, but I've only ever disclosed this fact to the handful of people working with me to save this nation. Our looming destruction is not a recent development, but the inevitable conclusion of the disaster the Abyss initiated five hundred years ago.
Paimon: Mualani told us a little bit about that...
Mavuika: Five hundred years ago, all the nations of Teyvat were invaded by the Abyss.
Unlike the other nations, Natlan never had stable and deep-rooted Ley Lines, so we suffered the worst of the invasion. The battle against the Abyss was exceedingly long and brutal. In the end, victory came at the cost of our civilization and countless lives.
Even then, it took centuries of solving the disasters caused by the Abyss to finally achieve the peace we know today.
Mavuika: Still, this is but a superficial victory. The forces of the Abyss have merely been driven back underground — their threat to Natlan remains as real as ever.
Kachina: I—I'd never have guessed...
Mavuika: The problems plaguing the Night Kingdom are all the more complicated because that realm is essentially functioning as Natlan's Ley Lines.
Immediately after the war, our calculations estimated that we would have a maximum of five hundred years before the Night Kingdom was completely lost to the Abyss. But at that time, we were a nation of the destitute. Our people no longer believed in victory, nor did they hold hope for the future.
Our civilization was dying, our faith crumbling, and the line of power passed down from the Wayob nearly severed... If we didn't bring the nation back together, it would be foolish to even dream of defeating the Abyss in the future. So, the Archon had a long and involved discussion with the heroes of each tribe, and finally came up with a five hundred year-long plan to save Natlan.
Mualani: So that's what happened... After finding Kachina, I encountered a strange figure who gave me a series of new memories. Since the plan was mentioned in those memories... I guess I've been chosen to play an important role in it. But, there's still something I don't understand. Those memories showed me the Pyro Archon from back then... and it was you.
Paimon: Huh!? But, that doesn't make any sense! The Pyro Archon is supposed to be human. It's impossible for a human to live that long!
Mavuika: That's right. The hardest thing for humans to overcome has always been time — or rather, the natural limitations of our lifespan.
A god can extend a human's life by using a certain amount of divine power, or subjecting them to a curse. But, as we all know, Natlan doesn't have gods like that. We can only rely on our own methods. A human life is like a flame destined to be extinguished.
Mavuika: Five hundred years ago, I placed my life within the Sacred Flame. Only by dying before my time could I have the chance to wake up again.
Chasca: So, in other words, this is your... second life?
Aether: That was all part of the plan?
Mavuika: Yes. We only managed to defeat the Abyss all those years ago because the tribes came together as one.
If the Natlan of the future was to have a fighting chance, the Pyro Archons that came after the war had to rebuild the decimated tribes. The goal was to reunite the people and restore the strength of each tribe's Wayob.
Once a tribe was back to its full strength, the tribe's Wayob would select a "hero," indicating the tribe was once again ready for war. The chosen would then stand by my side in defense of our nation, just like great heroes of old, five hundred years ago.
Mualani: So that means... I'm one of the chosen?
Mavuika: That's right. You bear the Ancient Name, "Umoja," the same one held by the hero from your tribe five hundred years ago. It means "unity." After your adventure in the Night Kingdom, I trust you've come to fully understand the meaning of that Name.
Paimon: So, in other words... You always knew who the Wayob were going to pick from each tribe?
Mavuika: Yes. According to the plan, each tribe was supposed to have been fully restored by the time I awoke. But, something went wrong along the way... The six heroes successfully inherited the Ancient Names from five hundred years ago, but the intel regarding the plan wasn't passed on to them. Once again, it comes down to the deterioration of the Night Kingdom. Communication between the Sacred Flame and the Wayob has been blocked.
Iansan: Just like how the Ode of Resurrection failed to bring Kachina back.
Mavuika: Exactly. It's just another tactic the Abyss is using against us. The Abyss may not possess intelligence, but its methods certainly aren't easy to counter.
If we want to unblock that information from being passed on, my presence alone isn't enough. The Ancient Name bearer must establish a greater connection to their Name. So, I've tried my best to help them from the sidelines.
Currently, Xilonen of the Children of Echoes, Kinich of the Scions of the Canopy, and Iansan of the Collective of Plenty have all been acknowledged by their Names.
Mavuika: During your adventure, you, too, earned the acknowledgement of your Wayob, Mualani. In the process, you gained the memories stored within your Name.
Y/n: That leaves two people left...
Paimon: But, we have less than a year...
Mavuika: Yes, but we have no choice. We cannot start the plan until all the heroes have been gathered. That's also why I haven't been able to take action despite the urgency of the situation.
Mualani: But, if you knew this whole time, why didn't you just tell me about my role in all this? Wouldn't that make everything go a lot faster?
Mavuika: Perhaps, but the opposite could also be true. Knowing your destiny too early could mean failing to realize your full potential. Just like your determination to save Kachina, I hope your commitment to this endeavor comes from your own strength of will, rather than a sense of obligation.
Chasca: So, I suppose you're not going to tell us who the final two heroes are, then...
Mavuika: That's right. Their "time" is yet to come. Putting pressure on them beforehand will only hinder their development.
Aether: But what if they don't make it in time...?
Mavuika: I can only trust in the judgment of the Wayob. I have never believed I could solve this crisis alone. In fact, it was precisely because I chose to trust and rely on others that we managed to get this far. Natlan's salvation lies not in its Archon, or any singular individual, but in us all.
Y/n: *looked around* Does that mean, you...
Mavuika: You're quite perceptive, aren't you? I thought I might get away with avoiding the topic.
Paimon: Huh? Oh, right! All the stuff you stored here before... Where did it go?
Mavuika: Even though I sacrificed my power, I still needed a contingency plan to ensure you would make it back from the Night Kingdom. After all, I was the one who allowed you to take that risk, and Mualani has an important role to play in my plan. In addition to their sentimental value, the items I stored here held a much more important purpose — "fuel."
Kachina: Fuel? Ah, so back then, that's why you...
Mavuika: Yes. The stories embodied by those items are certainly important, but there's an even more significant trait they all share — every item belonged to a hero of Natlan.
Over time, they became imbued with a certain amount of Contending Fire from being carried in battle. On their own, each item's power is limited, but, together, their combined effect can prove quite useful in a dire situation.
By burning those items, I was able to activate the Contending Fire stored within them to open the boundary between the two worlds. It was a rather crude approach, so all their power was depleted in an instant, as you can see.
Paimon: But, weren't they all precious treasures? What about their stories...?
Iansan: *sigh* That's exactly why I dragged you all here... No matter what, I never wanted the Pyro Archon to have to use that power. I'm so sorry...
Mavuika: You have nothing to be sorry for. You all deserve my thanks, actually. If you hadn't saved the totem pole, that area of the Night Kingdom would have been forever lost to the Abyss.
Then, it would only be a matter of time before the Children of Echoes was met with disaster. Besides, when those heroes entrusted their belongings to me, or the Pyro Archon of their time, it was out of a desire to contribute to Natlan's survival.
Mavuika: If they knew those items helped save the present-day heroes of Natlan, they would not mourn their loss.
Kachina: Even when you put it that way, I still feel bad...
Mavuika: Hehe, there's no need. Remember what I told you about "time"? The people and events of the past are never truly lost to us.
We simply carry them with us in a different form. In that sense, we didn't lose anything at all. If you still have regrets, let them fuel your resolve in the battles to come. Your deeds will become new legends and nurture new forms of power, just like the items once stored here.
Paimon: Well, we'd still like to return the favor...
Mavuika: Haha, if that's the case, just treat me to a drink sometime.
Y/n: Alright, I'll keep that in mind.
Mavuika: Haha, glad that we're on the same page. Now that Kachina has returned, we can finally hold the victory feast and celebrate your team's triumph in the Night Warden Wars. We could all use the rest, that's for sure. Plus, you'll be able to silence everyone who doubted you once and for all, Kachina.
Mualani: *sigh* Still, now that I know the danger we're facing, having a victory feast doesn't feel right...
Mavuika: Try not to let it get to you. It's important to stay calm. Worrying about it will only affect your judgement. Alright, you should head out. I'll join you in a bit.
Everyone leaves except Mavuika, who sits at her desk. The scene changes to walkways and towers in a foggy space with Natlan's emblem glowing in the sky. As she passes through, she encounters people from the past, including a hero from the six heroes of Natlan, her family, and many more. This caused her expression to turn into one full of solemn upon seeing those who passed from recent to older times.
She continued until a voice of the past claimed "The rules are my legacy. They shall grant us the strength to overcome the next tragedy. War forged the six tribes, taught us how to fight, instilled in us what it means to love... Who will be the one to bring this to an end?" Mavuika, despite her solemn expression replied with confidence "We are the inheritors of memory and legend. Those who grew alongside sun and wind. Those who forged our own destiny and future. That is Natlan's fire, the lifeblood of our nation."
During this, the Weary Inn was filled with cheers, smiles, music, and everything related, for everyone was celebrating the victory of the warriors of the Night Warden Wars.
Despite the lively atmosphere, everyone talked about their emotions, their opinions, and the overall situation of the nation and its plan. Eventually Mavuika pulled the trio aside for a small chat.
Mavuika: Have some fruit juice — I got it specially for you three.
Paimon: How did you know? That's Paimon's favorite!
Mavuika: You look like you've still got questions. Ask away.
Aether: Isn't your plan a little convoluted? Why didn't you get the heroes of the past to join you in this age?
Mavuika: Because they had their own lives to live.
The thought of telling them, abandon your families and everyone you love, and come with me to the end of time, for in five hundred years, Natlan will be destroyed... It seemed too cruel. You could just as easily point out that everything in this world will come to an end eventually. But life is short, and beyond a point it just doesn't seem real. Imagine if I said, "Let's leave right now and go save the sun, because it'll flame out in a few million years"... It would sound quite ridiculous. I couldn't make them shoulder that burden with me.
Besides, every generation will have its heroes, this one included. The plan could still work without them. Or of course, without me. But since I was the one who came up with the plan, I felt duty-bound to see it through to the end.
Paimon: Paimon's suddenly remembering that portrait in your room. Was that... your family from back then?
Mavuika: Yes, it was. So when you asked me who my sister grew up to be, the truth is that very little information survives. From what I've been able to piece together, I can conclude with a reasonable degree of confidence that she ended up as an architect and artist. She played an instrumental role in rebuilding the Scions of the Canopy tribe, designing and building many houses. But of course, none of her buildings are around anymore. Still, it was an impressive achievement, and I'm very proud of her.
Aether: So that's the life you had to leave behind...
Mavuika: You feel loss keenly. It seems to stir up feelings of regret in you... But this is something I have long since come to terms with. This is a war, and there can be no war without loss. I am already far more fortunate than those who lost their lives to the Abyss. The people of Natlan look to me as their Archon, and the weight of their expectations is mine to bear. I must see our fate through to the very end, no matter what I may find there.
Y/n: That's actually what I wanted to ask, If you're already aware of "fate."
Paimon: Yeah, doesn't that mean the way everything ends has already been written, including your plan?
Mavuika: I suppose, but so what? Don't forget, time takes many forms. The past, present, and future co-exist, and all are equally important.
Even if the future ends in destruction, that's still no reason to give up on the here and now. And it's precisely because we humans cannot know our fate that we will never give up on our struggle. This is a pivotal moment. We are still two heroes short.
Mavuika: Well... four, to be precise. There's one further hero who I'm hoping to get on my side, whatever it takes.
Aether: ...Surely you don't mean me and Y/n?
Mavuika: Your resistance to the corrupting power of the Abyss is truly remarkable and Y/n's power is that of a remarkable asset. It would easily make you an all-important figure in the upcoming battle. If you agree to join us, you will not only gain my full support in your journey, but I will also forge two brand new Ancient Names for you both.
Paimon: Ancient Names... can be forged?
Mavuika: They can. Several strict conditions must be met, but if they couldn't be forged at all, then the number of them in circulation would have long dwindled to zero. Possessing an ancient name would mean that your adventures in Natlan are recorded in full. Your stories would be remembered by our people for all the years to come.
Y/n: "It's not a bad offer, the problem is..."
Mavuika: The Ode of Resurrection may have temporarily lost its power, but still... Take this as my personal guarantee that I shall never let either of you fall. Just like in the Night Kingdom, I will be there for you. That is a promise I will fulfill at all costs. This nation always honors its heroes.
Y/n: Mavuika, I would like to respectfully decline that offer for me only. Aether can be the third hero you need, but me as the fourth hero won't be necessary.
Mavuika: Is there a reason why? If it's about the conditions about the Ancient Name -
Y/n: No, not that. I just don't want to be involved with anything related to the Abyss, infact I don't want to be involved with anything that can catch the attention of something that can put me in danger. I'm already technically breaking the rules of this world by helping, anymore and I might just catch the attention of the Four Shades of Teyvat or even worse, the Heavenly Principles.
Mavuika: ...I didn't expect that to be your reasoning for declining my offer, but it does make sense for someone like you to have these reasons.
Y/n: I'll still help, just not the way you want it to be.
Mavuika: Thank you, your help is greatly appreciated. As a token of my gratitude, even if you declined my offer, the benefits of it will still remain for you.
Y/n: Thank you. *turns to Aether* And you, Aether?
Aether: *a bit hesitant* You don't have to promise us anything. We just want to help out the people. I still want to help out, even if your not fully involved, Y/n.
Paimon: Yeah, we can't just ignore the situation here.
Mavuika: Wonderful. Then I'll reach out to Xilonen right away. She's the one who will forge the Name. We've never forged an Ancient Name for an outlander before, but I trust she'll find a way.
Elsewhere, The Captain and his subordinates can be seen in a base hidden from the eyes of the guards of Natlan. A Fatui subordinate, is seen kneeling behind the harbinger as he delivered some news.
Fatui Agent: My lord, we've received word that the Pyro Archon has lost much of her power. Although your injury complicates things, this is most certainly the opportune time to seize the Gnosis...
"The Captain": Victory and defeat are rules, not outcomes. I have never taken advantage of an opponent in a time of weakness, and I don't intend to start now. *refers to ???* As for you... I must confess, I did not expect that little trick of yours to save the day.
???: No matter how dense the fog, as long as the sun remains, we cannot turn day into night. She could have dispelled it — she simply chose not to. *sighs* You don't have much time, and you're injured on top of that. What do you plan to do next?
"The Captain": I'm beginning to see just how useful you may turn out to be. You... heard something from here, didn't you?
Back at the Weary Inn, Mavuika left the trio alone so they could continue to indulge in the festivities. At least, that was the plan until Y/n decided to pull Aether and Paimon back to their room where everything was the opposite below their room.
Before, when the group that rescued Kachina returned, Y/n sat with Kinich telling him about her worries, after she ate what he brought her.
Y/n: I know, I shouldn't have told you about this. But since you've involved yourself with my secret, I guess I kind of don't have a choice but to involve you. Sorry about that.
Kinich: This is the price I have to pay for confronting you and your problems.
Y/n: *smiles* Everything does have a price, it could be big or small. *sighs* I think I'm ready to tell Aether the truth.
Kinich: How do you think he'll react?
Y/n: I'm not sure, but I think it's best to tell him now. Because if I don't, I might have regrets later on, maybe I can avoid my own "unavoidable future."
Y/n didn't speak for a moment, her hesitance was noted as she looked at her womb, gently caressing it. The silence continued until she looked at Kinich with a serious expression in her eyes.
Y/n: Me losing my baby to the Abyss.
Kinich: I'm afraid that I don't understand.
Y/n: I don't mean that the Abyss will kidnap my child, I mean that the Abyss will hunt me down and do whatever it takes to kill my child. Mainly hoping to strike when a disaster arrives. This is probably to ensure that the offspring of the people who meddle with their affairs, won't cause anymore trouble for them.
Y/n: It doesn't help that, I'm basically putting my life on the line for this child.
Kinich: *shocked* What..?
Y/n: My body is weak in terms of strength, and this child is feeding on both my power and strength, rendering me to an even weaker state than I already was. It's putting my life on the line, increasing the chances of me dying during the birth of this child.
Kinich's eyes widened upon hearing that the girl sitting infront of him, laying herself bare in telling him the truth, is growing weaker through each passing moment, day by day and could eventually die giving birth to her child she so clearly loves.
He held a tight grip on his pants thinking of the scenario where she dies during childbirth and leaving behind her child to be raised by her companion, who could put the child in even more danger if he continues this journey. The thoughts angered him even more.
Y/n: You look tense and angry. This isn't a burden you have to worry about happening to you.
Kinich: "Everything does have a price, it could be big or small." You said that, and the price I'm paying is learning the truth while sharing the burden knowing what could happen to your child.
Y/n: If you're reacting like this to my news, then I could only imagine how Aether could react.
In the present moment, Aether and Paimon were quiet, their faces filled with shock and disbelief at news of a new member joining them soon, how that member could die at any moment to the hands of the Abyss and how they would lose a member due to giving birth to said new member.
Y/n didn't respond as she refused to look at them, she gently laid her hand on top of her womb, the place where Aether's gaze was focused on. The silence was broken, when Paimon's sobs filled the room with Aether responding with a tone filled with a mix of anger and hurt.
Aether: I won't allow it. *clenched his fists* I won't allow either to happen, get rid of it.
This answer caused the tense atmosphere to thicken even more. Now, it was Y/n's turn to be shocked and filled with disbelief at his words.
Aether: I won't risk having to live in fear knowing that our child will die, and I especially refuse the thought of you dying while giving birth to it.
Y/n felt her a knot form in her throat upon hearing his words. The thought of not being there to see her child grow and not being able to see her father ever again, even if she came to terms with the cost, it still hurt hurt her hearing Aether's opinion.
Aether pulled Y/n out of her seat while tightly gripping her shoulders, the tears that he was trying to hold back finally fell as his voice was filled with desperation as he continued his reasoning.
Aether: I'll beg and plead if you want, but choose me and yourself! And not the thing that's consuming your life as we speak!
Y/n: I-I'm sorry... *tearing up* I want to choose myself, I really do! But...
Aether: But what?! You already said so yourself, you want to choose yourself, so choose that answer! What's stopping you?!
Y/n: I don't want to end this child's chance at living!
Aether: It'll die sooner or later! It's better to get rid of it now than deal with the grief when the time comes!
Y/n: I know, but I just want to try and avoid it! Please, if I die giving birth, raise this child on my behalf. Raise it with the love and care you have given me, in a healthier way...
Aether didn't hear the last bit as he let go of her the moment she asked him to raise the child on her behalf. Instead he distanced himself from her and continued to shed tears and ran his hands through his hair. He kept rethinking her words while Paimon went to hug Y/n and soon enough, their sobs filled the room.
Only fate and time will tell if everything goes well.
